John Robert Talbert of Muhlenberg County drafted his last will on December 11, 1813, expressing concern for his wife and children. He directed that part of his property be sold to pay debts, with the remainder managed for his family’s benefit while his wife remains single. If she remarries, the estate should be sold, and the proceeds invested for their sons, Abner and Oliver, to inherit at age 21. His wife Nancy was appointed as executor. The will was proven in court in April 1814.
In the name of God Amen
I John Talbert of Muhlenberg Co. being of sound mind and memory but
realizing the uncertainty of human life, in order to better secure the
interest of my wife and children and to guard against some of the
misfortunes to which my death might subject them do make and ordain this my
last will and testament in manner and form following (viz)
Item 1st; That so much of the most unproductive part of my property be sold
by my excutors for payment of my just debts. The following of my estate
personal and real to be left in the hands of my beloved wife and children
for their use and benefit so long as she shall remain single. But in the
event of her remarriage, the whole of my estate sold and the money put to
interest with good security and to be equally divided between my two sons,
Abner and Oliver at the age of twenty one years.
I appoint my wife Nancy my excutor. Done this 11th day of December 1813
John Robert Talbert
Test; Clairborne Rice, Lucy Rice
Muhlenberg Co. Sct. April Court 1814
The above will was proven into court and proved by the oaths of Clairborne
Rice and Lucy Rice subscribing witness thereunto by the act and decease of
John R. Talbert---? and ordered to be recorded.
Att. Chas. F. W i n g C.M.C. Source: Muhlenburg County Kentucky Will Book 1, pages 185-186.