1856 - Graves to John, et al - Sussex Co, VA

1856 - Graves to John, et al - Sussex Co, VA

12/04/1856

3

In the name of God Amen. I Amy Graves being of sound mind and disposing memory do make and ordain this my last will and testament as follows. That is to say I give to John Winfield John, Berry, Henry to be kept by him or disposed of by him in any way that he may think best and so that they are well treated until they arrive at the age of twenty years, then they are to be free. I will and desire that John Winfield shall pay to my daughter Mary Jane five dollars to be used by her for my son Silas him until he arrives at the age of twelve years. This money is to be derived from the heirs of my three sons John Berry & Henry. I give to my daughter Mary Jane my son Silas until he arrives at the age of twelve years and he is then to return to John Winfield under the same terms as John Berry & Henry. I give my son Peter to Zebulon Myrick to be kept by him until he is nineteen years of age. If however Zebulon Myrick should die before Peter arrives at the age of nineteen years he is to be returned to John Winfield under the same terms and conditions as Joh, Berry & Henry and Silas.
I give and bequeath unto my daughter Mary Jane all my perishable property as it stands provided she remains near to my children. If she does not I desire all of my perishable estate sold and the money equally divided among my children. I appoint John Winfield my administrator to act without any restraint or to give any security. Given under my hand and seal this 25th day of May 1856.
Witnesses Amy Graves (seal)
Benj. F. Eppes
Edwd H. Eppes
J.T.I. More

At a court held for Sussex County on the 4th day of December 1856. The last will and testament of Amy Graves was presented into court and proved by the oaths of Benjamin F. Eppes and J.T.I. More two of the subscribing witnesses thereto and ordered to be recorded. And on the motion of John Winfield the Executor therein (or administrator) named who made oath and entered into bond, no security being required by the will conditioned as the law directs, certificate is granted him for obtaining a probate thereof in due form.
Teste, Jno J. Prince Clk

WB Q:681

Last Will & Testament

Unclear on the ages of the enslaved individuals mentioned, were they in fact freed prior to Emancipation?