Will of John Mercer

Transcribed by Ada Dunn

Will of John Mercer


  The 21th of February one thousand seven hundred and seventy five In the name of God amen I John Mercer of the County of Duplin and province of North Carolina planter being sick and weak in body, But in perfect sense and memory thanks be given unto God calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die, do make and ordain this my Last Will and Testament. That is to say principally and first of all I recommend my soul to almighty God that gave it and my body to be buried in decent Christian Burial at the discretion of my Executors. Nothing doubting but at the general Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mighty power of God and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me in this life. I give, demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form. First of all it is my desire that as much of my moveable estate be sold as shall discharge my debts. Also I lend unto my well beloved wife Rachal Mercer the use of my manor plantation during her life or widowhood and then to be my son Absolam Mercers all above the Indian Run. Furthermore, I give unto my wife Rachael Mercer my stock and household goods of all kinds, secondly such as I shall reserve hereafter. Also I give and bequeath to my son William Mercer all my land on Horse Branch with all the cattle and hogs in his mark. Likewise I give and bequeath to my son Joshua Mercer all my land below the Indian Run to his disposal. Also I give and bequeath to my daughter Nance Mercer five cows and calves to be paid out of my stock to her use and disposal. Also I give and bequeath to my grandaughter Nancey Brockson to the value of five cows and calves. Likewise I give and bequeath to my Daughter Debory Mercer one sow and pigs. Further I give and bequeath to my son Joshua Mercer fifty pounds proc'd money to be paid to him at the years of twenty one. Also it is my desire that my two sons Absalom and Joshua Mercer be brought up in a Christian manner. Likewise it is my desire that what remains after raising my children to be equally divided between my wife Rachael Mercer and my two youngest sons Absalom and Joshua Mercer when they come of age. And I do hearby uterly disallow revoke and disannul all and every other former wills by me in any wise before named, ratifying and confirming this and to be my Last Will and Testament. I also denominate and appoint my wife Rachael Mercer, George Smith, and William Mercer my son to be my Executors of this my Last Will and Testament. Signed and Sealed John Mercer In Presents of us George Smith Juner John Wheeden (his mark) This will is not to be copied and posted on any other site!


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