John Wells, who died at age 54 in 1692, left no will. It was then necessary for the court to take action and proceed with the distribution of his estate. It began by awarding the widow her “thirds” of the “Moveables free of debt.” It was customary for the widow to receive a third of the estate and to be entitled to live on the property so long as she pleased. This provision is indicated. Moveables are the household goods, that is, everything except land or real estate. The remainder of the estate was then parceled out to the children. The eldest son only, received a double portion.
Probate court. Distribution of the estate of John Wells. 1699. Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association, American Centuries. https://americancenturies.org/collection/l99-077/. Accessed on October 16, 2024.
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