Pioneer Families of Grand Traverse County, Michigan

Probate File 81: Guardianship of Francis and Lorenzo Pomeroy

Summary: Francis Irene Pomeroy and Lorenzo N. Pomeroy were the children of Lorenzo N. Pomeroy (deceased) and Irene E. Pomeroy Baley.

1. File Jacket. Francis Inna Pomeroy, Lorenzo N Pomeroy, minors. Bernard A. Stone, Joseph Beaty, guardians. Probate Calender 52.

2-3. 19 January [?] 1867. Petition for appointment of guardian. [Letterhead] Printed by S. D. Elwood, Griswold Street, Detroit. To Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, Irene Baley petitions saying she has two minor children. Francis Irene Pomeroy is 11-years-old and Lorenzo N. Pomeroy is 7-years-old. Their father is dead and they have personal estate in Connecticut worth $409.33. Asks that Irene E. Baley and Joseph Baley of Traverse be appointed guardian. Witnessed by Jesse Crain, Notary Public.

4-5. 9 Nov. 1868. Letter of Guardianship. For estate of Frances Irene Pomeroy and Lorenzo N. Pomeroy, Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints Bernard A Stone guardian. Their father, Lorenzo N. Pomeroy of Suffield, Connecticut, is deceased. Bernard Stone is asked to make an inventory. Recorded Liber 1, page 199.

6. 9 Nov. 1868. Petition for appointment of guardian. Irene E. Baley of Grant twp. petitions Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, to appoint a guardian for her two children: Frances Irene Pomeroy aged 13-years-old and Lorenzo N. Pomeroy aged 9-years-old. There is an estate of $450. She asks that Bernard A. Stone of Grand Traverse be appointed guardian.

7-8. 9. Nov. 1868. Guardian's Bond. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints Bernard A. Stone and Irene E. Baley guardians of Frances Irene Pomeroy and Lorenzo N. Pomeroy, children of Lorenzo N. Pomeroy, deceased. They are to pay 1 bond of $800 to Curtis Fowler. Witnessed by Jesse Crain and Joseph Baley. Recorded Liber 1, page 198.

Probate File 82: Guardianship of Judson Hardy

Summary: Judson J. Hardy was born between 1845 and 1852, son of George Hardy. Don C. D. Brooks was appointed Judson Hardy's guardian.

1. File Jacket. Judson J. Hardy, minor. Don C. D. Brooks, guardian. Probate Calender 55, page 3.

2. 7 Dec. 1866. Petition for appointment of guardian. George Hardy petitions Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, for appointment of a guardian for Judson J. Hardy. Judson J. Hardy was between 14 and 21-years-old and lived in Grand Traverse Co. Because he was older than 14, Judson J. Hardy was allowed to nominate a suitable guardian. He nominated Don C. D. Brooks of Long Lake. Brooks is appointed guardian and asked to pay a bond.

3-4. 12 April 1869. Guardian's bond. Estate of Judson J. Hardy. Don C. D. Brooks as principal and Adam Umlor as surety promise $200 bond to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Jane Umlor was witness on 4 February 1869. Recorded Liber 1, page 277.

5-6. 7 Dec. 1868. Petition for appointment of guardian. George Hardy petitions Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Hardy is living in Long Lake and has a son over 14-years-old who has property worth about $100 in North Adams, Michigan. Asks that Don C. D. Brooks of Elmore, Michigan be appointed guardian. Jesse Crain, Notary public, witnessed the petition. Recorded in Liber 1, page 276. [Miscellaneous notes are also present- state 2, county 2 1/2, etc, not known what these refer to].

7-8. 7 Dec. 1868. Nomination of guardian. Judson J. Hardy nominates Don C. D. Brooks of Long Lake to be his guardian. Curtis Fowler is Judge of Probate. Recorded in Liber 1, pages 276-277.

9. 7 April 1871. Receipt. "Rec'd of D. C. D. Brooks guardian estate Judson J. Hardy $1.00- pd. for appraisement of estate. H. E. Stewart Co. Treas."

10-13. 7 June 1869. Appraiser's warrant. Estate of Judson J. Hardy. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints Edwin Ansorge, Jr., Lewis Ruthart, and George Ruthart appraisers. They are to report to Don C. D. Brooks. Appraisal due 26 June 1869. Don C. D. Brooks swears inventory is coorect on 5 July 1869. Land appraised in Adams twp, Hillsdale County, Michigan worth $100. Recorded Liber 1, page 315-316.

14. Envelope. Don C. D. Brooks guardian to Judson Hardy.

Probate File 83: Guardianship of Elijah, John, and Susan Mills

Summary: Elijah Mills, John Mills, and Susan Mills were children of Elijah Mills, deceased. The children's mother died before their father. Jesse Crain was appointed guardian.

1. File Jacket. Elijah Mills, John Mills, and Susan Mills, minors. Jesse Crain, guardian. Probate Calender 56, Ledger 44.

2-6. 14 July 1880. Final Account of Administration. Estate of John G. Mills, Elijah Mills, and Susan J. Mills, minors. Jesse Crain, guardian, tells C. J. Scofield, Judge of Probate, that homestead land of the minors has been sold to Robt Hopkins. In payment, Crain took land on which valuable improvements were made. On 30 March 1880 the land was conveyed to John G. Mills, Elijah Mills, and Susan Mills. Recorded Liber 12, page 373.

7-8. 18 August 1879. Petition. Petition sent to C. J. Scofield, Judge of Probate, by John Mills. John Mills says that on 6 January 1868 Jesse Crain was made his guardian and also guardian of Elijah Mills and Susan J Mills. Petitioner is 21, Elijah Mills is 20, and Susan J Mills. Jesse Crain had received large sums of money, about $1000, petitioner says "Jesse Crain is now feeble and infirm and wholly incapable of transacting any business either for himself or others...refuses to pay over or to account to your petitioner...Asks that Jesse Crain be removed as such guardian." John Mills asks that he or some other person be named guardian.

9. 14? Aug. 1868. Oath Before Sale of Real Estate. Estate of Elijah Mills, John Mills, and Susan Mills. Jesse Crain was licensed to sell estate on 20 July 1868. This was witnesses by T. T. Bates, Notary Public.

10-11. 1 June 1868. Probate Order. Estate of Elijah Mills, John Mills, and Susan Mills, minors. Jesse Crain asks Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, to sell estate for the support or education of the Mills children. Jesse Crain asks that Probate Order be printed in the newspaper. Recorded in Liber 1.

12-13. 20 July 1868. Guardian's Bond on Sale of Real Estate. Estate of Elijah Mills, John Mills, and Susan Mills. Jesse Crain [as principal], Reuben Goodrich and Thomas T. Bates as sureties. Pay Curtis Fowler $1200 bond. Witnessed by Azel Hatch and C. R. Paige. Recorded on Liber 1, page 281-282.

14-16. 1 June 1868. Petition. Estate of Elijah Mills, John Mills, and Susan Mills. Jesse Crain, administrator of the estate of Elijah Mills (father of Mills children) had homesteaded land and occupied land until he died. Wife had died shortly previously. Children are at present chargable more or less to the county for their support. Jesse Crain wants to sell estate to pay for maintenance and education. Witnessed by T. T. Bates, Notary Public.

17-18. 6 January 1868. Guardian's Bond. Estate of Elijah Mills, John Mills, and Susan Mills. Jesse Crain is principal and Reuben Goodrich and Geo F. Stevens as sureties. They pay Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, $700 bond. Children's father was Elijah Mills. Witnesses were Wm. D. Patterson and C. R. Paige. Recorded in Liber 1, page 302.

19-20. 6 January 1868. Petition for Appointment of Guardian. Jesse Crain petitions Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, to be guardian of Elijah Mills, John Mills, and Susan Mills. Their estate is worth $500. Recorded Liber 1, page 301.

Probate File 84: Estate of Joel Gardner

Summary:

1. File Jacket. Joel A. Gardner, deceased. Nathan Jugmish, executor. Probate Calender 61, ledger page 20.

2. 4 Jan. 1869. Probate Order. M. Bates, Jr., publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears that he published the probate order for three weekd from 15 Oct. to 5 Nov. 1868. Probate Order declares that Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, will hear estate of Joel A. Gardner, who died on 18 June 1868, leaving a will. Witnessed by T. T. Bates, Notary Public.

3. 5 June 1871. Receipt. County Treasurer's Office Traverse City, Michigan. Received from Nathan Jagneth [?] estate of Joel Gardner $3.43. H. E. Steward, County Treasurer.

4-6. 9 Nov. 1868. Proof of Probate of Will. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, hears testimony of Luman Case of North Climax twp, Grand Traverse County. Luman Case says he was acquainted with Joel A. Gardner of North Climax for a year. On 24 May 1868 he witnessed will. He saw Joel A. Gardner sign it on 18 May 1868 in presence of James P. Reynolds. Recorded Liber 1, page 374-375.

7-9. Last Will and Testament. Joel A. Gardner of North Climax, Benzie Co. orders debts paid, leaves to beloved wife Clara P. Gardner lands and appurtances [lands legally described]. At her death, land and property goes to daughter Camilla A. Gardner. If wife marries again, all property to Camilla A. Gardner. Son Victor T. Gardner is to pay Clara P. Gardner $105 within six months of death. The remaining children: Araminta B. Pain, Clarissa V. Jaquish, Minavavana V. Gardner, Thaddeus S. Gardner, Phebe A. Barden, Rowena [crossed out], Edith R. Goff, Ellen P. Gilbert, and Samuel T. Gardner get one piece of land to be equally divided among them. Son-in-law Nathan Jaquish to be executor. Joel A. Gardner signs own name. Witnesses are Charles H. Marsh of Silver Lake and James P. Reynold and Luman Case of North Climax, Benzie County.

10-12. 9 Nov. 1868. Last Will and Testament. Copy of document 7-9.

13-14. 9 Nov. 1868. Certificate of Probate of Will. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, has hearing for estate of Joel A. Gardner where Luman Case says he saw will signed. Charles H. Marsh of Silver Lake and James P. Reynolds were subscribing witnesses. Administration granted to Nathan Jaquish of Grand Traverse County.

15. Notes. Inventory Joel Gardner estate, Inland P. O. Land, one horse, one poor cow, one 2-year-old heifer, and hosehold. Total is $345 [in Curtis Fowler's handwriting].

16. Notes. Charles H. Marsh deposed will on 18 June 1868 with Probate Court. Will of Joel Gardner, miscellanseous notes [in Curtis Fowler's handwriting].

17-18. 9. Nov. 1868. Certificate of Probate of Will. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, hears estate of Joel A. Gardner, deceased. Luman Case testified that he saw Gardner sign will in presence of Charles H. Marsh and James P. Reynolds. Fowler ordered that Nathan Jaquish be appointed administrator. He is to give bond of $1000. Recorded Liber 1, pages 390-391.

19. Notes. Proof of will Joel A. Gardner 9 Nov. 1868. Luman Case acquianted with Joel A. Gardner who died on or about 24 May 1868. He saw will made on 18 May with James P. Reynolds. Charles H. Marsh also attested will at the same time.

20. Note. Estate of Joel A. Gardner [legal description of land]

Probate File 90: Guardianship of Philo Maxfield

Summary: Philo Maxfield was ruled infirm in 1869 and Silas F. Judson was appointed guardian. File mentions a son in Ohio and a daughter and son-in-law living near Philo Maxfield.

1. File Jacket. Philo Maxfield, infirm. Silas F. Judson, guardian. Probate Calender 79.

2-3. 15 Feb. 1869. Court Hearing. Curtis Fowler holds court session where petition of Elias E. Kirkland, Lyman Mann, and William Steele pray that Silas F. Judson of Benzonia be appointed guardian of Philo Maxfield. Philo Maxfield is ordered to appear in court 11 March 1869.

4-5. 1869. Letter. Sent to Judge Fowler- delay due to difficulty in finding guardian-please reschedule hearing-- can't act as a guardian. Signed by E. E. Kirkland.

6. 15 Feb. 1869. Court hearing-subpoena. Copy of 2-3 included, E. E. Kirkland swears he delivered this to Philo Maxfield on 23 Feb. 1869. Sworn in front of C. Johnson, Justice of the Peace in Homestead.

7-9. 18 Jan. 1869. Petition. Written in Homestead, Michigan and sent to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. In reference to a poor, partially deranged man...named Philo Maxfield. He is an old man, living on a homestead with no family for five years. One son who lived not far away has left and moved to Ohio. He has other children there, A daughter with her husband lives near but are poor and have children. "Mr. Maxfield has a singular swelling in his head, an enlargement of the skull bone so that his brain is affected he is partially deranged and is incapable of taking care of himself. Children have not properly taken care of him. I was notified of his situation by the Benzonia people. I visited him two weeks ago last Saturday and found him alone in a very open log house in filth and with the appearance of suffering for want of proper care and in danger of burning up his house or dying there alone." Hired neighbors to care for him. Homestead has some valued--cleared land son-in-law has sown with wheat this fall, has a few tools. Petitioner asks that guardian to be appointed--not acquainted with law. Son-in-law anxious that it be done. E. E. Kirkland.

10-11. 15 Feb. 1869. Petition. Sent to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Petition of Elias E. Kirkland, Lyman Mann, and William Steele. Residing in Benzonia twp is Philo Maxfield old and infirm, partially deranged. One of petitioners is County Superintendant of the Poor. He found Maxfield in poor house and need of proper care. Asks that a guardian be appointed. Prays that Silas F. Judson of Benzonia be appointed. Elias E. Kirkland, Lyman Mann and William Steele. Elias E. Kirkland swears petition is true on 9 Feb. 1869 in front of John Bailey, Justice of the Peace.

12-13. Court Session Notes. 11 March 1869. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate- matter of Elias E. Kirkland, Lyman Mann, and William Steele asking for appointment of guardian for Philo Maxfield. Sets hearing on matter. After hearing Silas F. Judson of Benzonia made guardian, bond set at $1200.

14. Note. Benzonia, Michigan, 14 Oct. 1903. Dear Sir, Silas F. Judson died in 1883. I know nothing about estate of Philo Maxfield. Very Respectfully, L. P. Judson.

Probate File 91: Guardianship of Rocinda Harriman

Summary: Rocinda A Harriman was born around 1860/1861, daughter of Daniel and Sarah A. Harriman. Daniel died before April 1869, by which time her mother had married Richard van Camp. Rocinda appears to have married Allen or Henry Lannin in the early 1880s.

1. File Jacket. Rocinda A. Harriman, minor. Richard Van Camp, guardian. Probate Calender 34, page 43.

2-4. 7 March 1881. Petition. Estate of Rocinda A. Harriman, petition of Richard Van Camp, guardian. Estate has been spent for her care. She owns land but it is unproductive. Asked to mortgage land in Kalkaska County for #200. Witness is Allen Lannin, Justice of the Peace in Kalkaska County.

5. 8 Nov. 1881. Petition. Westwood, Kalkaska Co. Estate of Rocinda A. Herriman, Richard Van Camp, guardian. She is of full age and Van Camp died without making any settlement. Petitioner asks that a hearing be held. Henry Lannin of Westwood, Michigan.

6-7. 1 June 1869. Guardian's Bond. Estate of Rocinda A. Harriman, minor. Richard Van Camp, E. R. Wait, and L. Van Camp promise Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, bond of $500 on 3 May 1869. Rocinda Harriman is under 14-years-old and is daughter of Daniel Harriman late of Independence, Michigan. Document witnessed by Joseph Van Camp and John Drew. Recorded in Liber 1, page 285.

8. Note. "Mr. Scofield sir- I clame the rite to have 25 cents more per week for Board on Rocinda A Harriman bill I have had good Council on the Mater if the bill is disputed. Richard Van camp."

9. 20 March 1880. Account. Account for 20 Dec. 1877 to 20 March 1880- total is $48.95 for Harriman account.

10-12. 27 Aug. 1880. Annual Account. 22 Dec. 1869 to 1880. Account lists expenses pertaining to Rocinda A. Harriman by Richard Van Camp and include trips on boats to Detroit and Elk rapids, goods, postage, Doctor Morgan, Lawer How [?], sewing machine, Walter, Meross [?], and building a house. Account was sent to Curtis Fowler, witnessed by Joseph Van Camp, Justice of the Peace.

13-14. 1 June 1869. Letter of Guardianship. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints Richard Van camp guardian of Rocinda A. Harriman, minor. She was daughter of Daniel Harriman, deceased of Independence, Michigan. Van Camp has to make an inventory by 1 December of the following year.

15. 31 March 1881. Letter. [Letterhead] Law and Loan Office of A. A. Bleazby, Kalkaska, Michigan. To Judge of Probate, Richard Van Camp still guardian of Rocinda A. Harriman. A. A. Bleasby.

16. 7 March 1881. Letter. [Letterhead] Law and Loan Office of A. A. Bleazby, Kalkaska, Michigan. Sent to C. J. Scofield, Judge of Probate- enclosed is petition of Van camp as guardian asking license to mortgage 80 acres for $200 to improve other lands. "the ward is married and her husband is putting some three hundred of his money with [illegible] improvement in his wife's property. The ward will be of age this year and she wishes you to grant the license." A. A. Bleazby.

17. 24 April 1869. Petition for Appointment of Guardian. Sent to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, petition of Sarah A, Van Camp of Peninsula in Grand Traverse County. She has a minor child with her family Rocinda A. Heriman who is eight years old. Father is dead and petitioner is her mother. The minor is entitles to a pension from the United States for $96 per year. She asks that Richard Van Camp of Peninsula be appointed guardian. Sworn in front of William H. Franklin, Justice of the Peace.

18. Ledger Account. "this is what i could not git in the report." 24 June 1876 to 3 Feb. 1879--account lists trips to Traverse City and Kalkaska, Henry Lannin went to city to hunt up the guardian's papers, paid $10 to D. Manby for signing on homestead land. R. Van Camp, guardian of Rocinda A. Herriman but now Lannin.

Probate File 92: Estate of Mercy Moody

Summary: Mercy Moody died in Traverse City on 19 August 1869. Her mother, Mary Moody, lived in Gromby, Hampshire County, Massachusetts.

1. File Jacket. Mercy Moody, deceased. Amanda S. Wright, administrator. Probate Calender 62.

2-3. 3 Jan. 1870. Administrator's Bond. Estate of Mercy Moody. Amanda S. Wright and Jesse Crain pay bond of $250 to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Witnesses were M. Bates, Jr. and Mary Knizek. Recorded Liber 1, pages 380-381.

4-5. 3 Jan. 1870. Letters of Administration. Mercy Moody died intestate. Curtis Fowler appoints Amanda S. Wright administrator. Recorded Liber 1, pages 379-380.

6. 3 Jan. 1870. Probate Order. D. C. Leach, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears that he published the probate order on 9 Dec. to 30 Dec. 1869. Probate Order noted that Probate Court was held on 6 Dec. 1869 with Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Court is for Mercy Moody's estate and Amanda S. Wright is appointed administrator.

7-8. 27 Nov. 1869. Petition for Appointment of Administrator. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, hears petition of Amanda S. Wright. She says that Mercy Moody of Traverse City died in that city on 19 August 1869 leaving no will and an estate of $125. Heirs of Mercy Moody is her mother Mary Moody who resides in Gromby [?], Hampshire County, Massachusetts. Petition witnessed by Jesse Crain, Notary Public. Recorded Liber 1, page 376 and 378.

Probate File 93: Estate of Adolphus Worden

Summary: Adolphus Worden died between 2 December 1869 . He left his wife his property and, after her death, it was to be divided between his two grandchildren Ralph Worden and Myra Worden.

1-2. File Jacket. [first image has "confidential material" note over it] Adolphus Worden, deceased. Chas. T. Scofield, executor. Probate Calender 61, Ledger page 35.

3. 27 Nov. 1869. Last Will and Testament. Adolphus Worden of Whitewater, Grand Traverse Co. orders debts paid. Bequeaths 1). to my beloved wife all land and appurtenances. These are SE 1/4 of NE 1/4 of Section 4 and W 1/2 of NW 1/4 of NW 1/4 of Section 3, both in Township 27 North and Range 9 West. Property hers for rest of natural life and after her death it is to be divided equally between Ralph L. Worden and Myra M. Worden, my two grandchildren. He appoints Charls T. Scofield executor and revokes any former wills. Written on 27 Nov. 1869 [marked with an X] and witnessed by D. B. Scofield, George Brown, and William Crisp all of Whitewater.

4. 17 Feb. 1870. Probate Order Notice. D. C. Leach, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald swears he published probate order from 27 Jan. to 17 Feb. 1870. Witnessed by T. T. Bates, Notary Public. Probate Order says court was held 25 January 1870 with Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Will of Adolphus Worden had been presented on 3 January 1870 by Charles T. Scofield. Orders claimants to come forward and sets date for probate of will.

5. 25 Jan. 1870. Probate Order. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, states that the will of Adolphus Worden was presented on 3 January 1870 by Charles T. Scofield and is to be proved on 21 February 1870.

6-9. 21 Feb. 1870. Appraiser's Warrant. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, orders William Crisp and Daniel B. Scofield to appraise Adolphus Worden's estate. They are to report findings to Charles T. Scofield. They swore they would discharge duties on 9 April 1870 and swore that the inventory was correct on 9 May 1870. Charles T. Scofield agrees on 9 May 1870. Appraisal lists 68 acres of land (worth $1775), household goods and chattel. The household goods were reappraised and consisted of household furniture $57, one 2-year-old heifer $40, one 1-year-old heifer $15, one plow $3, and a p. fork .75. Recorded Liber 1, page 361-362.

10. 10 Jan. 1871. Receipt. C. T. Scofield, executor of Adolphus Worden's estate, pays one percent of appraised value of estate- $18.00- to H. E. Stewart, County Treasurer.

11-12. 21 Feb. 1870. Executor's bond. Estate of Adolphus Worden, Charles T. Scofield and William Crisp of Whitewater offer bond of $3000 to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Recorded Liber 1, page 359-360.

13-16. 21 Feb. 1870. Last Will and Testament and Certificate of Probate of Will. [copy of will, #3 above] Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, proves will of Adolphus Worden. Daniel B. Scofield swears that he and William Crisp witnessed will. Charles T. Scofield made executor and must offer bond of $3000. Registrar's office received record on 4 Aug. 1873 and it was recorded in Liber 12 page 129-131 of Deeds. Jesse Crain was Registrar.

17-18. 21 Feb. 1870. Proof of Probate of Will. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, heard Daniel B. Scofield of Whitewater. Scofield swears he knew Worden for over three years. Worden died on

2 December 1869. Scofield witnessed will on 27 Nov. 1869 with William Crisp. Recorded in Liber 1.

Comment: Adolphus W. Worden died on 2 Dec. 1869 in Whitewater twp, aged 54 years 9 months and 10 days. Cause of death was unknown, he was born in Ohio.

Probate File 94: Estate of Albert Stites

Summary: Albert Stites died on 17 March 1869. His heirs were wife Margaret Stites and children Mary Peek, Elizabeth Johnson, and Rhoda Stites. Other relatives include B. I. Stites, Ann Stites, Eugenie (?) Stites, C. Stities, Emaline Case, and Frank Johnson.

1. File Jacket. Albert Stites, deceased. Jos. B. Haviland, administrator. Probate Calender 35, ledger page 12.

2. Notes. [written by Curtis Fowler]. Estate of Albert Stites [illegible]. Paper in case 10 [illegible]. S 1/2 NW 1/4 Section 26 [illegible].

3. Notes [written by Curtis Fowler]. [notes list documents in file].

4. 5 July 1875. Probate Order Notice. D. C. Leach, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears he published probate order from 10 June to 1 July 1875. Witnessed by Charles T. Scofield, Judge of Probate. Probate Court session held 7 June 1875, with C. T. Scofield as Judge of Probate. Estate of Albert Stites, Joseph B. Haviland asks to sell land, hearing to be held on 5 July 1875.

5-7. 19 July 1875. Administrator's License to Sell Real Estate. Charles T. Scofield, Judge of Probate, is asked by J. B. Haviland, administrator of Albert Stites's estate. Personal property is insufficient to pay indebtedness of estate. Amount due is $390. Wants to sell land- S 1/2 NW 1/4 Section 26, 28, 10. Bond of $1000 is offered.

8. 19 July 1875. Oath Before Sale of Real Estate. Albert Stites is deceased. J. B. Haviland is selling real estate.

9-10. 19 July 1875. Bond on Sale of Real Estate. J. B. Haviland as principal and Jesse Crain and H. E. Stewart as sureties. Offer $1000 bond to C. T. Scofield. Witnessed by C. T. Scofield and Thomas Cook.

11-13. 7 June 1875. Petition for License to Sell Real Estate. C. T. Scofield hears petition by Joseph B. Haviland for the estate of Albert Stites. Personal estate is $562 and has been used for support of the family. Debt is $390 and administrative costs of the estate will be $400. Haviland asks to sell land- S1/2 NW 1/4 Section 26 Township 28 North, Range 10 West in East Bay.

14. 18 Sept. 1869. Letter. Yuba, Grand Traverse County- John Pulcipher writes Judge Fowler and asks that someone else be appointed appraiser. He suggests H. S. Beach or Francis Hopper.

15. 29 May 1869. Probate Order Notice. D. C. Leach, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears that he published probate order from 6 through 27 May 1869. Witnessed by T. T. Bates, Notary Public. Probate order says that court was held on 3 May 1869 with Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, presiding. Margaret Stites asks that Joseph B. Haviland be made administrator of the estate of Albert Stites.

16-17. 12 April 1869. Petition for Appointment of Administrator. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, is told by Margaret A. Stites of Grand Traverse County who says that Albert Stites of East Bay died on Wednesday, 17 March 1869 without leaving a will. He was a resident of Grand Traverse County and left real and personal estate worth about $3000. Heirs are widow Margaret A. Stites and children Mary J[?] Peek, Elizabeth Johnson, and Rhoda Stites, all of East Bay. Margaret Stites asks that Joseph B. Haviland of East Bay be appointed administrator. Oscar Eaton, Justice of the Peace, witnessed the document. Recorded Liber 1, page 363-364.

18. 30 Aug. 1869. Letter of Administration. Albert Stites, deceased, Joseph B. Haviland of Acme is appointed administrator by Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Fowler orders a $5000 bond to be filed. Recorded Liber 6, folio 16. [note] H. D. C. Jay 27/82.

19-20. Notes. [notes list actions taken, dates, and monetary amounts]

21. Notes. Estate of Albert Stites, Joseph B. Haviland is administrator. [list of documents, mention of J. Pulcipher]

22. Notes. Estate of Albert Stites, Joseph B. Haviland is administrator. "wanted to complete files letters adm" Judge [illegible]. "Annual account up to date 1881"

23. 7 Jan? 1869. Receipt. Estate of Albert Stites pays Grand Traverse Herald $5.50 to publish probate order. Signed by D. C. Leach.

24-26. 30 Aug. 1869. Commissioner's Warrant and Report. Estate of Albert Stites. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints Samuel H Sayler, Henry Blake, and Orren Hoxsie commissioners. They witness document on 19 Oct. 1869 with Oscar Eaton, Justice of the Peace, witnessed their signatures. They list "expenses of last sickness" Nelson J. Peek $19.27, A. Melville M.D. $10.00, B. D. Ashton $41.50. Debts precedent by laws of the U.S.- none presented. Sundry debts: Nelson T. Peek $18.00, D. E. Cushman M.D. $2.00, B. D. Ashton M.D. $2.50, John Thacker (note of hand) $33.25 disallowed outlawed, D. C. Leach advertising $3.75, J. P. Ayers notes with interest $135.40, 129.40, and 123.80. Above notes were given in Defiance, Ohio with interest respectively for 6, 5, and 4 years minus 36 ds. All notes dated May 14th, 1863 due 1, 2, and 3 years after date. No charge for appraisal services. Appraisal dated 9 April 1870 by S. H. Sayler, O. Hoxsie, and Henry Blake.

27-28. 13 Aug. 1869. Executor's Bond. Albert Stites estate- Joseph B. Haviland, Wm H. Fife, and Alonzo Hoxsie offer bond of $5000 to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate on 7 June 1869. Witnessed by Clarence Linkletter and M. S. Wells.

29-32. 7 June 1869. Appraiser's Warrant. Curtis Fowler appoints John Pulcipher [crossed out], Francis Hopper, and John Titus appraisers of the estate of Albert Stites of East Bay. They swear to perform an accurate appraisal on 4 Oct. 1869, witnessed by Oscar Eaton, Justice of the Peace. Joseph B. Haviland swears appraisal is accurate on 4 Oct. 1869. Appraised land is 160 acres $1400, two hogs, one sleigh, one "poor old horse," one wagon, one cow, one "year old past heifer," one plow, one drag, one grain cradle, corn on the ground, notes, four t[ons] hay, 30 bus[hels] wheat no. 2, and buckwheat on the ground. Total is $1962.50. Recorded Liber 1, page 367-368.

33-35. 1 June 1875. Petition. J. B. Haviland, administrator of the estate of Albert Stites, says that heirs ask that a title be conveyed to John Pulcipher. [legal description of land] includes mention of trees cut by John A. Brainerd with stumps still visible. John Pulcipher is to convey land to estate [legal description of land]. The heirs want to build a land to the state road and enhance the value of the land. Land is being conveyed to John Pulcipher so that he can put in a hydraulic ram to convey water from a spring to his residence. Signed by Margaret A. Stites, B. I. Stites, Ann Stites, Eugenie[?] Stites, C. L. [U?] Stites, Mary J. Peek, E. Emaline Case, Libbie Johnson, and Frank Johnson, heirs and legal inheritors of Albert Stites.

36. 4 Oct. 1875. Probate Order Notice. D. C. Leach, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears that he printed probate order from 5 through 26 Aug. 1875. Probate order says that court was held on 2 Aug. 1875 with C. T. Scofield, Judge of Probate. Albert Stites estate- Joseph B. Haviland wants to convey land to John Pulcipher.

37. Description of Land. Legal description of land to be conveyed to John Pulcipher.

38. 8 June 1876. Notes. Notes for 1875-1876, include notes about heirs selling land to J. Pulcipher.

39. Notes. Estate of Albert Stites, J. B. Haviland is administrator and wants to sell parcel to J. Pulcipher.

Comment: Grand Traverse Death Records indicates that Albert Stites died on 17 March 1869 in Acme from a disease of the liver. He was aged 49 years and 17 days, was born in Ohio, and his father was Henry Stites of Leelanau.

Probate File 95: Estate of Gilbert Ainslie

Summary: Gilbert Ainslie died on 14 October 1869. He left behind a wife, Mary E. Ainslie, and children: Douglas Ainslie, Louis Ainslie, Mary Ainslie, and M. J[?]. Ainslie.

1. File Jacket. Gilbert Ainslie, deceased. John Pulcipher, administrator.

2-5. 21 Jan. 1870. Appraiser's Warrant. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, asks Nelson T. Peek and George Loucks to appraise Gilbert Ainslie's estate. They are to report findings to John Pulcipher, the appointed administrator. Peek and Loucks swear on 1 March 1870 that they will appraise property correctly, witnessed by Jesse Crain, Notary Public. Appraisal was done by 1 March 1870. John Pulcipher swears is it correct on 19 April 1870, witnessed by Oscar Eaton, Justice of the Peace. Inventory lists land: NE 1/4 section 26 Township 27 North, Range 11 West valued at $1600. Also dwelling house in Traverse City at $150, a pair of mules, one sick cow, a double wagon, one light wagon, a yearling heifer, two calves, a set of double harness, bob sled irons, two chains, one set of old harness teeth, and household goods. Total is $2015.00. Another section notes additional income from post office drafts for mail contracts; cash collected from post masters; excess money from sale of light wagon, double wagon, heifer and calves, and dwelling house in Traverse City; rent of $5.00 from house, and cash collected from Sprague & Spencer. Recorded Liber 8, page 22. [note] H. D. C. [illegible] 26/82.

6-7. 4 Jan. 1875. Executor's Bond. For Gilbert Ainslie's estate- John Pulcipher and Thomas T. Bates offer a bond of $5000 to Charles T. Scofield. Witnessed by Charles Goodrich and W. H. Fife.

8. 16 June 1870. Receipt. John Pulcipher pays one percent of Gilbert Ainslie's estate- $20.01 to H. E. Steward, County Treasurer.

9. Notes. [miscellaneous notes, mostly monetary figures] G. Ainslie estate- assets= $1217.85.

10. 26 Aug. 1871. Note. "On or before the 19th day of December next I promise to pay John Pulcipher or bearer $10 for rate[?] received. Robert Hopkins"

11. 24 Jan. 1875. Receipt. Traverse township Treasurer's Office. Ainslie estate- taxes $12.66. Jesse Crain, township treasurer.

12. 16 Feb. 1875. Claim. John Pulcipher received bill from Grand Traverse Herald from D. C. Leach. On December 12th, notice for Gilbert Ainslie's estate was published. [paper subscription cost $2.00 for one year]

13-14. 23 March 1883. Discharge of Administration. Henry D. Campbell, Judge of Probate, discharges John Pulcipher from administration of Gilbert Ainslie's estate. Recorded LIber 2, pafe 119.

15. 10 June 1878. Traverse township Cemetery Deed. [Receiptt #] 126. $10.00 received from Mrs. G. Ainslie's estate. Purchase of whole lot 120, Block 12. H. D. Campbell, chairman, L. H. Gage, clerk.

16-17. 23 March 1883. Annual Report. Henry D. Campbell, Judge of Probate, receives annual report from John Pulcipher, administrator for Gilbert Ainslie's estate. Remaining real estate to be turned over to Pulcipher. Probate court session hled 19 April 1881 and is recored in Liber 12, pages 20-21 on 23 March 1883.

18. 1875. Annual Account. John Pulcipher, administrator of Gilbert Ainslie's estate, submits report for 1 March 1870 through 1875. It lists appraised values of property, excess value of items sold, rent, R. Hopkins cash and note, 1/2 interest in light wagon belongs to N. Ainslie, note by R. Hopkins for dwelling uncollected. Claims allowed: B. D. Ashton, Wilcox and Pratt, H. L. Allen, E. W. Sigon[?], William Benton, Nelson Ainslie, and H. Peters. Amount paid note given to Fife to abandon farm with crops and house in March 1875.

19-20. 4 Jan. 1875. Administrator's License to Sell Real Estate. Charles T. Scofield, Judge of Probate, asks for bone of $5000 from John Pulcipher, administrator of Gilbert Ainslie's estate, so that Pulcipher can sell NE 1/4, section 26, Township 27 North, Range 11 West.

21. 4 Jan. 1875. Probate Order Notice. D. C. Leach, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears that he published probate order from 10 to 31 Dec. 1874. Witnessed by William H. Fife, Notary Public. Probate order notes that C. T. Scofield, Judge of Probate, held hearing for estate of Gilbert Ainslie and that John Pulcipher wants to sell property.

22-24. 21 Jan. 1870. Commissioner's Warrant and Report. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints Samuel H. Taylor, Morris Mahan, and Francis Hopper to appraise Gilbert Ainslie's estate. They swear they will do so on 9 March 1870. Claimants for money from estate include costs for "last sickness" B. D. Ashton $25.00 and creditors: Wilcox and Pratt note $19.05, B. D. Ashton $17.00, H. L. Allen $7.27, E. N. Stiger[?] $22.78, Grand Traverse Herald .88, William Benton $140.57, Nelson Ainslie $725.97, and Sprague and Spencer Dr. $14.75 [crossed out]. Recorded liber 9, page 4. [note] H. D. C. Jany 26/82.

25. 7 Nov. 1870. Claim. Elk Rapids- Mr. Fowler, Esq. Note presented against heirs of Gilbert Ainslie, doesn't see Grand Traverse Herald often and is sending in claim late. Henry Peters.

26. 11 March 1870. Commissioner's Notice. D. C. Leach swears that he published notice from 24 March to 14 April 1870. Witnessed by Lovell H. Gage, Notary Public. Claims to be heard by S. H. Saylor, Morris Mahan, and Francis Hopper.

27-29. 15 Nov. 1870. Citation. Gilbert Ainslie's estate- widow Mary E. Ainslie, John Pulcipher, administrator, and claimant Henry Peters must appear in probate court on 5 Dec. 1870. Commission has expired and claim goes to Probate Court to be heard by Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Henry Peters signs on 3 Dec. 1870. On 3 Dec. 1870, John Pulcipher and Mary E. Ainslie ask that claim be paid.

30-31. 3 Jan. 1870. Executor's Bond. For Gilbert Ainslie's estate, John Pulcipher, Joseph B. Haviland, and Edwin Pulcipher offer bond of $7000 to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Witnessed by E. M. Curtis on 21 Jan. 1870. Recorded Liber 6, page 15. [note] H. D. C. Jan. 26 1882.

32. 11 March 1872. Testimony. John Pulcipher, administrator of the estate of Gilbert Ainslie, posted notice in four public places, two in Traverse City and two in East Bay.

33. 12 Feb. 1870. Petition. Yuba-to Judge Fowler, John Pulcipher says bond sent for estate of Gilbert Ainslie with "my father and J. B. Haviland as sureties." Asks that S. H. Saylor, Morris Mahan, and Francis Hopper be appointed commissioners and Nelson T. Peek and George Loucks as appraisers.

34. 17 Jan. 1870. Petition. Yuba- to Judge Fowler, John Pulcipher has enclosed the bond of administrator for Gilbert Ainslie's estate, asks for appointment of S. H. Saylor, Morris Mahan, and Francis Hopper as commissioners and Nelson T. Peek and George Loucks as appraisers.

35. 31 Oct. 1870. Petition. Yuba- commissioner's return enclosed against estate of Gilbert Ainslie, they didn't finish until 19 October. Signed by John Pulcipher.

36-37. 4 Dec. 1869. Petition for Appointment of Administrator. C. Fowler, Judge of Probate, is petitioned by Mary E. Ainslie of Grand Traverse. Gilbert Ainslie of Traverse City died on Thursday, 14 Oct. 1869 and left no will. He was an inhabitant of Grand Traverse. Estate is valued at $5000. Heirs are Mary E. Ainslie and minor children Douglas G. Ainslie, Louis F. Ainslie, Mary M. Ainslie, and M[illegible] J[?] Ainslie. Mary E. Ainslie asks that John Pulcipher be made administrator. Witnessed by T. T. Bates, Notary Public.

38. 3 Jan. 1870. Probate Order Notice. D. C. Leach, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears that he published probate order from 9 to 30 Dec. 1869. Witnessed by T. T. Bates, Notary Public. Probate order states that Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, held court session about estate of Gilbert Ainslie and that widow Mary E. Ainslie was asking that John Pulcipher be appointed administrator.

39-40. 6 Dec. 1869. Probate Order. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, hears Mary E. Ainslie ask that John Pulcipher be appointed administrator for estate of Gilbert Ainslie.

41-47. 18 April 1881. Report of Administrator. Estate of Gilbert Ainslie- John Pulcipher presents lengthy report to Henry D. Campbell, Judge of Probate. Lists appraisals, wagon and double wagon sold to Nelson Ainslie, cash paid to R. Hatch, B. D. Ashton, Wilcox and Pratt, Nelson Ainslie, W. Benton, E. W. Siger, Sprague and Spencer, R. Hopkins, H. L. Allen, Henry Peters, money paid to Mary E. Ainslie to support family. Pulcipher charged estate administration costs of $203.84 that included hotel bill at Cutlers, time spent viewing Peter Milks farm, money paid to T. T. Bates for contract, and to D. C. Leach for advertisement. Also note to pay Samuel B. Fife by 1 April if he vacates land on or before 15 March 1874 [note should be 1875]. Individual claims listed- including money to be paid commissioners S. H. Saylor, Morris Mahan, and Henry Peters.

Comment: Grand Traverse Death Records indicates that Gilbert Ainslie died on 14 Oct. 1869 in Traverse City from diabetes. He was aged 33 years and 4 months, had been born in New York, and his parents were Adam and Elizabeth Ainslie of New York.

Probate File 96: Estate of Joseph Durga

Summary: Joseph Durga died on 17 May 1869 in Long Lake twp, six days after preparing his will. He left his estate to his widow, Electa Durga.

1. File Jacket. Joseph Durga [deceased], Electa Durga, executor. Probate Calender 129.

2. Note. If the names of the heirs are wanted on the petition please let me know and I will send them to you and you can fill it out your self. Yours truly B. H. Durga.

3-4. 5 July 1869. Executor's Bond. Estate of Joseph Durga, Electa Durga, widow, and Benjamin H. Durga offer bond of $1500 to Curtis Fowler, Justice of the Peace. Witnessed by Elias Wyckoff, Frankie Crater, and Mary E. Lewis.

5-6. 11 June 1869. Petition for Appointment of Administrator. Electa Durga petitions and says that Joseph Durga of Long Lake died on 17 May 1869. Will was presented by Leander Curtis to be admitted to probate. Estate is valued at $2000. Witnessed by Elias Wyckoff, Justice of the Peace.

7-8. 5 July 1869. Proof of Probate of Will. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, hears testimony for Joseph Durga's estate. Leander Curtis of Long Lake was acquainted with Joseph Durga of Long Lake for one year. Joseph Durga died on 17 May 1869. Leander Curtis witnessed will on 11 May 1869 in dwelling house of deceased. Other witness was Isaac H. Curtis.

9. 31 March 1903. Letter. John A. Loranger, Judge of Probate, sends letter asking "Madam" [Electa Durga] for final account of Joseph Durga's estate.

10. 11 May 1869. Last Will and Testament. Joseph Durga leaves all to Electa Durga and appoints her executor. [Marks will with an X]. Witnessed by Leander Curtis, Isaac H. Curtis, and Stephen Perkins of Long Lake.

11-12. Certificate of Probate of Will. [Blank]

13. 9 Sept. 1869. Note. To Treasurer of Grand Traverse County. Valuation of estate of Joseph Durga is $1267.00. Grand Traverse County Treasurer owed $12.67. Signed by Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

14. 19 Aug. 1871. Receipt. B. H. Durgy, administrator, pays $12.67 from estate of Jos. Durgy. Signed by H. E. Stewart, County Treasurer.

15. 4 March 1871. Receipt. Leonard Smith pays $9.79 for estate of James Smith. Signed by H. E. Stewart, County Treasurer.

16-19. 5 July 1869. Appraiser's Warrant. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, asks Isaac H. Curtis and Ebenezer Fillmore [William Lyon crossed out] to appraise Joseph Durga's estate and to report findings to Electa Durga, executor. Curtis and Fillmore sign warrant on 4 Sept. 1869, witnessed by Elias Wyckoff, Justice of the Peace. Electa approves inventory on 4 Sept. 1869. Inventory lists real estate of 360 acres valued at $1000.00 [crossed out], personal estate of two cows, one 2-year-old colt, one 2-horse wagon, one sugar kettle, 80 sap buckets, a note for $115.00, a mortgage for $100.00, and a mortgage for $800.00. Indebtness of $40.50 [crossed out]. Recorded in Liber 1.

20. Note. The will of Joseph Durga. Place of residence is Long Lake township, Grand Traverse County, Michigan. "delivered May 11 into the hands of Mr. L. Curtis to be kept as the law directs by order of the testator.

Probate File 97: Estate of Abram West

Summary: Abram West died on 5 January 1869 In Peninsula twp. His heirs were Marian Tyler, Laura Gardner, Harriet Hard, and Theodore West.

1. File Jacket. Estate of Abram West. Theodore H. West, administrator. Probate Calender 130.

2. 7 Oct. 1903. Note. Probate Court, Grand Traverse County. Dear Sir, please render your final account of the estate of Abram West deceased. John A Loranger, Judge of Probate. [note] #97 all heirs dead.

3-4. 27 March 1869. Administrator's Bond. Estate of Abram West. Theodore H. West and John A. Thayer as surety, offer bond to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, of $500 on 8 March 1869. Was witnessed by Wm Brown on 27 March 1869.

5-6. 27 March 1869. Letters of Administration. Estate of by Abram West. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, grants administration to Theodore H. West. Abram West was an inhabitant of Grand Traverse County. Recorded in Liber 1.

7. 8 March 1869. Record of Probate Court Session. [handwriten by Curtis Fowler] Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, presides over a session where the petition of Theodore H. West was heard. Theodore West asks to be made administrator of estate. Notice was published in Grand Traverse County paper. Theodore H. West was appointed administrator and was ordered to pay bond.

8-11. 28 Oct. 1869. Appraiser's Warrant. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints John B Bourasaw and John A. Thayer to appraise Abram West's estate. They are to report to Theodore H. West, administrator. The appraisal was verified by Theodore West in October 1869. The estate consisted of: three coats, one vest, one kit of shoemaker's tools, upper and sole leather, one chest, one pocket lantern, books, one black saw, one lock and key, one watch, a mortgage by Theodore West for $150 and interest in same from 16 Nov. 1869. Money collected by administrator $211.84.

12-13. 6 Feb. 1869. Petition for appointment of administrator. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, hears petition by Theodore H. West of Grand Traverse County. He says Abram West late of Peninsula, Grand Traverse County died there on Tuesday, 5 January 1869. The estate is about $250 and heirs are Marian Tyler of Chemungo, Boone County, Ill; Laura Gardner of Ithica, NY; Harriet Hard of Milton, Antrim County, MI; and "your petitioner" Theodore West. Theodore West asked to be appointed administrator. Recorded in Liber 1.

14. 22 April 1871. Receipt. County Treasurer's Office. 22 April 1871. Recieved from estate of Abram West $2.12. H. E. Steward, County Treasurer.

15-16. Appraisal. Estate of Abram West. Original appraisal copied in pages 8-10.

17. 6 Oct. 1873. Probate Order Notice. D.C. Leach, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, published probate order on 14 August to 4 Sept. 1873. Witnessed by Thos. T. Bates, Notary Public. Probate Order notes that Charles T. Scofield, Judge of Probate, estate of Abram West. Theodore H. West as administrator asks for final account.

18. 3 Nov. 1873. Probate Court Session. C. T. Scofield, Judge of Probate, for estate of Abram West, notes that Theodore H. West had paid mortgage and mortgage had been discharged.

19. Appraiser's Warrant. Copy of page 8 [not completely filled out]

20-21. 11 March 1869. Probate Order Notice. D.C. Leach swears that he published probate order from 11 Feb. to 4 March 1869. Witnessed by T.T. Bates, Notary Public. Probate Order states that Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, was hearing estate of Abram West. Theodore H. West asks to be administrator. Recorded in Liber 1.

Probate Files 98-99 Missing

Probate File 100: Guardianship of Calvin and Martha Snell

Summary: Calvin Snell, born in 1851/1852, and Martha Snell, born in 1853/1854, were the children C. O. and Julia A. Snell. C. O. Snell died prior to 1870. Julia A. Hyde married Simon Hyde after her first husband's death.

1. File Jacket. Calvin W. Snell and Martha A. Snell, minors. S. H. Hyde, guardian. Probate Calender 59, Ledger Page 46.

2-4. 26 May 1870. Petition for Appointment of Guardian. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, hears petition of Julia A Hyde (formerly Julia A. Snell). Julia has two minor children living in Traverse twp: Calvin W. Snell aged 18 and Martha A. Snell aged 16. Father if deceased. There is an estate of $500 and Julia asks that Simon H. Hyde of Traverse City be appointed guardian. Witnessed by Lewis S. Crane, Justice of the Peace. Calvin W. Snell and Martha A. Snell agree to the petition.

5. 13 Aug. 1870. Letter. To Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. G. N. Tuttle of Lake County, OH is sending amount due to wards of the late C. O. Snell to Fowler to pay it over to S. H. Hyde, now guardian of Calvin W. Snell and Martha A. Snell. According to Moses Morrell, the amount due the children is $539.13.

6. 7 Sept. 1870. Letter. From Probate Judge's Office, Lake County, Ohio. G. N. Tuttle, Judge of Probate, sends final acount of Moses Morrell as guardian of Calvin W. Snell and Martha A. Snell. This was settled on 4 August 1870 for $539.13. Signed by C. N. Tuttle, Judge of Probate.

7. 26 May 1870. Guardian's Bond. Estate of Calvin W. Snell and Martha A. Snell. Simon H. Hyde and Lewis S. Crain offer bond of $1000 to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Simon H. Hyde is guardian of Calvin W. Snell and Martha A. Snell, children of C. O. Snell of Painsville, Ohio. Witnessed by Lewis S. Crain, Justice of the Peace. Recorded in Liber 1, page 318. [documented is also dated 13 January 1875].

Probate File 101: Estate of Orril Corbin

Summary: Orril Corbin died on 21 February 1873 in Traverse City. Her will names her son, Marvin Briggs, and her granddaughter, Annie M. Blinn, as her heirs. Annie Blinn was married to Edwin J. Blinn. There was some controversy over whether the will had been altered after it was made.

1. File Jacket. Orril Corbin, deceased. Edwin J. Blinn, executor. Probate Calender 63, Ledger Page 18.

2-3. 11 August 1877. Proof of Probate of Will. On 2 June 1873 Charles T. Scofield, Judge of Probate, heard Edwin S. Pratt testify about the last will and testament of Orril Corbin. Pratt was acquainted with Mrs. Corbin, late of Traverse City. She was a resident of Traverse City and died there in the winter of 1873. Edwin S. Pratt was a subscribing witness to the will on 27 July 1870 in the presence of William Prouty. Pratt noted that the word "five" had replaced the word "three" before the word hundred on the 15th line of the will. Recorded Liber 1, page 482-483.

4. Notes. [written by Curtis Fowler- the notes were used to draft 2-3]

5-6. 5 May 1873. Petition for Appointment of Administrator. C. T. Scofield, Judge of Probate, hears Edwin J. Blinn of Grand Traverse say that Orril Corbin of Traverse City died 21 February 1873 leaving a will and an estate of about $700. The heirs are Marvin A. Briggs, residence unknown, and Annie M. Blinn of Traverse City. Scofield is asked to name Edwin J. Blinn executor. Recorded Liber 1, page 445.

7-8. 2 June 1873. Letters Testamentary. Orril Corbin is deceased and Edwin J. Blinn is appointed executor. Recorded Liber 1.

9-10. 19 October 1873. Executor's Bond. For estate of Orril Corbin, Edwin J. Blinn and Thomas T. Bates of Grand Traverse offer bond of $2000 to C. T. Scofield on 7 July 1873.

11. 10 July 1873. Inventory of Effects. Orril Corbin's estate consists of one note given by Thos. T. Bates for $600 due on 1 August with 10 percent interest. Also bedstead, bedding, carpet, clothing estimated to be worth $200. Edwin J. Blinn, executor, of Traverse City.

12-13. 2 June 1873. Certificate of Probate of Will. Chas. T. Scofield, Judge of Probate, Orril Corbin's estate with Edwin J. Blinn, executor. Blinn presents affadavit of Edwin J. Pratt who said Orril Corbin's will had the word "five" replacing the word "three". Charles T. Scofield, Judge of Probate, approves will except for the change. [note says "not to be recorded"]

14-15. 31 July 1870. Last Will and Testament. Orril Corbin of Traverse City leaves 1). to son Marvin A. Briggs $500 [three written over] if dead to go to granddaughter Annie M. Blinn. 2). rest of estate to Annie M. Blinn. She appoints Edwin J. Blinn executor. Witnessed by Wm Prouty and Edwin J. Pratt of Traverse City.

16. Testamentary. In Grand Traverse County, Edwin J. Pratt swears that he was acquainted with Orril Corbin at time of making of the will. She resided in Traverse City. At time of making will "The amount in the origal [sic] will I think was 300 dollars as it stood at the time of making and..." he knows nothing of the alteration. Orril Corbin died on 21 February 1873 [crossed out and replaced with] winter 1873.

Probate File 102: Estate of George Fuller

Summary: George Fuller died on 19 April 1867 in Traverse City. He left a wife, Ella S. Fuller, who subsequently married Mr. Rosa (or Roosa). A daughter, Alma Fuller, also survived.

1. File Jacket. George Fuller, deceased. Minnie F. Roosa. administrator. Probate Calender 60, Ledger Page 20.

2-5. 29 September 1870. Appraiser's Warrant. George Fuller, deceased. Harvey Langworthy and Amos K. Montague are appraisers and are to report to Miney F. Roose who has been appointed administrator by Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate Jesse Crain, Notary Public, witnessed document on 29 Sept. 1870. Langworthy and Montague swore that they would carry out appraisal. Minney F. Rossa agreed the inventory was correct on 3 Oct. 1870. Appraisal was for Lot #3 on Section 18. 28 North, 10 West of Range, 20 acres total. It was valued at $4.50 per acre. Recorded Liber 1 page 354-356.

6-7. 29 Sept. 1870. Administrator's Bond. Estate of George Fuller- Miney F. Roosa and Benjamin Ashton offer bond $200 to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Miney F. Roosa is administrator. Recorded Liber 1, page 35.

8. 24 Sept. 1870. Probate Order Notice. D. C. Leach, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears that he published notice for four weeks from 21 [?] Sept. to 22 Sept. 1870. Witnessed by Jesse Craine, Notary Public. Probate Order states that Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, held probate court on 13 Aug. 1870. George Fuller is deceased, Ella S. Rosa is a former wife and widow of the deceased. Asks that administration be granted to Edgar A Hathaway.

9-10. 24 Sept. 1870. Court Notes. Probate Court held 24 Sept. 1870 with Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Hearing with Mrs. Ellen [?] S. Roosa and it is ordered that Miney F. Roosa be appointed administrator. Recorded Liber 1, page 352.

11-12. 9 Aug. 1870. Petition for Appointment of Administrator. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Ella T. [?] Rosa, late Ella S. Fuller of Benzie County, states that George Fuller of Traverse City died in Traverse City on 19 April 1867, leaving no will. She was lawful wife of George Fuller at time of his death. He possessed real estate worth $125. Heirs are Ella S. Rosa and his child Alma Fuller. She asks that estate be used to support herself and child and asks that administration be granted to Minney F. Rosa [Edgar A Hathaway crossed out]. Witnessed by Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate on 13 Aug. 1870. Signed by Mrs. Ella S. Roosa. Recorded Liber 1, page 351-352.

13. 3 Oct. 1870. Receipt. In Traverse City, Mrs. Rosa pays one percent of estate- $3.00- to H. E. Steward, County Treasurer.

Probate File 103: Estate of James Smith

Summary: James Smith died on 1 May 1870. His heirs were wife Erede Smith and children James Smith, Britania Smith Hagan, Euretta Dipley, Charlotte Smith Smith, George Smith, Lorenzo Smith, Leonard Smith, and Philena Smith Walker.

1. File Jacket. James Smith, deceased. Lorenzo Smith, administrator. Probate Calender 83.

2. 3 April 1903. Note. Weedsport, New York- Dear Sir, the estate of James Smith, deceased, was settled up 30 years ago and closed up. This is in reply to yours of the 1st inst. Yours truly, Lorenzo Smith.

3-6. 7 Sept. 1871. Order Allowing Claims. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, allows claims for estate of Lorenzo Smith [James crossed out, but this should still read James]. Lorenzo Smith claims $30 and received $32.80. Debts of other creditors: George Smith $76.67 received $80.66, Lorenzo Smith $55.00 received $62.00, Philena Walker $50.00 received $57.87, Jerry Dunham $2.44 received $2.44, and Seth Hall $1.00 received $1.00. Total came to $236.77. Recorded Liber 1.

7-8. Petition to Sell Personal Estate. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, petitioned by Lorenzo Smith to sell personal estate of James Smith, deceased, to pay debts. Lorenzo Smith of Traverse City if administrator of estate.

9-10. 7 Nov. 1870. Letters of Administration. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints Lorenzo Smith administrator for estate of James Smith, deceased.

11-14. 7 Nov. 1870. Appraiser's Warrant. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints George P. Griswold and Marvin Brunson to appraise James Smith's estate. They are to report to administrator Lorenzo Smith. They agree to do so on 7 Dec. 1870 with witness Jesse Crain, Notary Public. They swear appraisal is true on 22 Dec. 1870 and Lorenzo Smith agrees the same day, witnessed by Jesse Crain, Notary Public. Appraised property is SW 1/4 of NW 1/4 section 26 Township 27 North, Range 11 West and W 1/2 of NW 1/4 of section 26, Township 27 North, Range 11 West. Total land is 60 acres appraised at $240. Other assets are a note for $200 by Hiram D------ [illegible] on 12 May 1868 that was valued at $228.10 on 20 October 1869, mortage and notes from Thomas Bates at $200 from 15 Feb. 1869, one span of black horses, one double harness, one cow, one double lumber wagon, two common chains, and two augurs. Total is $978.50.

15. Note. [nearly illegible] Lorenzo Smith administrator of the estate of James Smith. P.O. [illegible] Weedsport, Cayuga Co., NY

16. 7 Sept. 1871. Notes. Probate Court Session- estate of James Smith. Commissioner's appointed by the Probate Court. Petition for sale of personal estate by Lorenzo Smith. Court ordered that sale take place.

17. 30 Dec. 1870. Receipt. $54.35 received of Lorenzo Smith in full for claim allowed me by the court of estate for borrowed money. Traverse City. Philena Walker.

18. 30 Dec. 1870. Receipt. $76.67 received of Lorenzo Smith in full for claim allowed me by the court of estate for borrowed money. Traverse City. George W. Smith.

19. 19 June 1869. Receipt. Estate of James Smith. To Phinlena S. Walker- cash loaned said Smith- $50.00.

20. 7 Nov. 1870 [?]. Claim. George Smith submitted claim that he lent James Smith $100.00 on 9 June 1869. On 7 Nov. 1871 there was interest of $13.85. George had been paid $34.00 so was still owed $79.85. Statement witnessed by Jesse Crain, Notary Public.

21-22. 3 Oct. 1870. Probate Order. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, hears Erede C. Smith, widow of James Smith, ask that administration of the estate be granted to Lorenzo Smith.

23. 27 Oct. 1870. Probate Order Notice. D. C. Leach, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears that he published the probate order from 6 Oct. to 27 Oct. 1870. Witnessed by T. T. Bates, Notary Public. Probate order states that Erede C. Smith asked Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, to grant administration to Lorenzo Smith. Hearing set for 7 Nov. 1870.

24. 7 Nov. 1870. Administrator's Bond. Lorenzo Smith of Cato, NY and Hiram Darrow of Bingham, Leelanau County, offer $2000 bond to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, for administration of James Smith's estate.

25-27. 7 Nov. 1870. Commissioner's Warrant. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints George Griswold and Lovell H. Gage to be commissioner's for James Smith's estate. They swear they will do so on 28 Nov. 1870, witnessed by Jesse Crain, Notary Public. Hold commissioner's meetings on 30 Dec. 1870, 25 Jan. 1871, and 5 Sept. 1871 at office of G. P. Griswold. Heirs are George Smith, Lorenzo Smith, Lorenzo Smith, Philena Walker. Creditors are Jerry Dunham and Seth Hall. Commissioners were paid $4.50 for expenses.

28. 19 Jan. 1871. Commissioner's Notice. D. C. Leach, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears that he published commissioner's notice on 28 Dec. 1870 and 19 Jan. 1871. Witnessed by T. T. Bates, Notary Public. Notice says that Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, has appointed G. P. Griswold and L. H. Gage commissioner's for James Smith's estate.

29-31. 7 Sept. 1871. Claims Notice. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, notes that Lorenzo Smith claimed $30 and received $32.80 from James Smith's estate. Debts of other creditors: George Smith, Lorenzo Smith, Philena Walker, Jerry Dunham, and Seth Hall are $236.77.

32. 7 Nov. 1870. Notes. [Curtis Fowler's handwriting] Hiram Darrow [at top of page] Petition of Erede C. Smith who wants Lorenzo Smith to be appointed administrator of estate. He is to be appointed with a $2000 bond. Names of appraisers Marion Brunson and Geo P. Griswold. Commissioner's to examine claims are Geo P. Griswold and Lovell H. Gage.

33. 27 March 1872. Note. "Dear Sir, i thought i would write you a few lines to let you know that I mad a mistake in regards to the place it is Lorenzo Smith Weedsport Caugo Co. NY. excus me for making sutch a mistake. Yours truely from Leonard Smith. To Mr. Fowler- you had gone before I could see you a gain. Please hurry the business as fast as possable."

34-35. Notes. Estate of James Smith. Claims by George Smith, Lorenzo Smith, and Philena Smith Walker. George Smith- 30 Dec. 1870- James Smith borrowed $100.00 and still owed $79.85. Lorenzo Smith- I leant Father $50.00, $5.00 for Mrs. Walker. Geo Smith says he saw Lorenzo have money. Lorenzo Smith claims $30.00 used for father's funeral expenses. Philena Smith Walker loaned father $50.00 on 19 June 1869. Philena Walker on claim of Lorenzo Smith says that for $55.00- about $50.00 worth of hay was received in cash sold to Payson Appleboro, said labor of Lemuel [crossed out]. Jerry Dunham [illegible] $2.44. Seth Hall for service in favor of estate $1.00.

36-37. 17 Sept. 1870. Petition for Appointment of Administrator. Curtis Fowler hears petition of Mrs. Erede C. Smith of Grand Traverse. James Smith of the town of Traverse died on 1 May 1870 without will. She is widow and estate worth $1100.00. The heirs are widow Erede C. Smith; James Harvey Smith and Britania Smith Hagan of Cisero, N.Y.; Euretta Dipley of Traverse twp., MI; Lorenzo Smith of Cato, N.Y., Charlotte Smith Smith of Clay, N.Y.; George W. Smith of Traverse; Philena Smith Walker and Leonard Smith of Traverse. Erede C. Smith asks that Lorenzo Smith be made administrator.

Probate File 104: Estate of Solon Rushmore

Summary: Solon Rushmore died on 28 August 1870. His family included his widow, Catherine Haviland Rushmore, and son Wilson Rushmore.

1. File Jacket. Solon Rushmore, deceased. Edmund haviland, executor. Catharine E. Rushmore [illegible]. Probate Calender 64, page 31.

2. 1 April 1903. Note. Note asks "Madam" for final account of John A. Loranger. Written over note is "Dead, J. A. Loranger 4/11/1903."

3-5. Petition. To Judge of Probate, E. W. Haviland, appointed administrator of the estate of Solon Rushmore, requests that letter testamentary be given to widow Catherine E. Rushmore. Recorded p. 454.

6-7. 10 Sept. 1870. Citation. Estate of Solon Rushmore- to widow Catherine Rushmore and heirs. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, is presented will by Wilson Rushmore. Hearing set of 3 Oct. 1870.

8. Notes. [Curtis Fowler's handwriting]. List of property and list of claimants: A. C. Tuttle, M. Chandler, H. K. Brinkman, M. Winne, E. Wait, Wm Tompkins, J. S. Pratt, H. Emery, R. D. Tompkins, H. Gore, and Henry Curtis. Hay estimate, wagon, and plough. Estate worth $1336.00.

9-10. 9 Sept. 1870. Petition. To Judge of Probate, Petitioner Wilson Rushmore, son of Solon Rushmore who died on 28 Aug. 1870. Hearing for proof of will asked for. Curtis Fowler heard Wilson Rushmore swear petition. Recorded Liber 1, page 456.

11-12. 14 Nov. 1872. Letters Testamentary. Catherine E. Rushmore is given administration of Solon Rushmore's estate. He was a resident of Peninsula. Recorded Liber 1, page 459. C. F. [Curtis Fowler], Judge of Probate.

13-14. 9 Oct. 1866. Will. Solon Rushmore of Peninsula leaves all to beloved wife Catherine E. Rushmore. He appoints wife and brother Edward Haviland, executors. Witnessed by W. A. Marshall, John Drew, and Alexander Porter. True copy as certified by Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

15-16. Inventory. Lists: Lot 1 of Lot no. 4 of section 35 which is 10 26/100 acres worth $181 and Lot 2 of Lot no. 4 of section 35 which is 10 21/100 acres worth $505. Also: A. C. Tuttle note, Myron Chandler claim, H. K. Brinkman, Malcolm Winne, claims; E. Wait, Wm Tompkins, J. M. Pratt due bill; Hiram Emery, R. D. Tompkins, Homer Gore, and Henry Curtis. Hay estimate, wagon, and plough. Total $1336. Mrs. Catherine E. Rushmore, widow of Solon Rushmore, made inventory. Witnessed by Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

17-19. 28 Nov. 1870. Petition. To Judge of Probate, Catherine Rushmore petitions. Edward Haviland declines to be an executor. Catherine Rushmore asks to be sole executor for estate of Solon Rushmore. Witnessed by Richard S. Van Hoesen [?] of Preble, Cortland County, NY. Witnessed in Cortland, NY by Frank Place on 1 Dec. 1870.

20-22. 3 Oct. 1870. Executor's Bond. Catherine E. Rushmore and Wilson Rushmore offer $500 bond to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, for Solon Rushmore's estate. Witnessed by E. P. Ladd, Notary Public. Recorded p. 457-458.

23. 9 Oct. 1866. Will. [original copy of #13-14].

24-25. 3 Oct. 1870. Prrof of Probate of Will. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, hears testimony of John Drew of Peninsula. John Drew was acquainted with Solon Rushmore for about four years. Solon Rushmore died on 28 Aug. 1870. John Drew witnessed will on 9 Oct. 1866 with William A. Marshall. Drew swears this in front of Curtis Fowler. Recorded Liber 1, pages 454-455. [note] C. T. Scofield, Judge of Probate, 1875.

26-27. 3 Oct. 1870. Certificate of Probate of Will. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, hears petition of Wilson Rushmore for estate of Solon Rushmore. Hearing held and John Drew states he witnessed will with William A. Marshall. Catherine E. Rushmore and Edward Haviland are executors. Bond set at $500.00. Recorded page 453. "Copy for records Nov. 4 1881 H. D. Campbell."

Probate File 105: Estate of William Merrill

Summary: William Merrill died in Whitewater on 25 August 1868. His heirs included wife Harriet E. Merrill, and children William Merrill and C. A. Merrill. Harriet Merrill subsequently married Hiland J. Beach.

1. File Jacket. William C. Merrill, deceased. Charles T. Scofield, administrator. Probate Calender 8, ledger page 27.

2. 17 Feb. 1870. Probate Order Notice. D. C. Leach, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears that he published probate order from 27 Jan. to 17 Feb. 1870. Witnessed by T. T. Bates, Notary Public. Probate Order says that in a hearing on 25 Jan. 1870, Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, heard Harriet E. Beach ask that administration of the estate of William Merrill be granted to Charles T. Scofield. Hearing set for 21 Feb. 1870.

3-4. 17 Jan. 1870. Petition for Appointment of Administrator. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, hears petition of Harriet E. Beach of Grand Traverse County. William Merrill of Whitewater died there on 25 Aug. 1868 without a will. Petitioner is a widow and is now the wife of H. J. Beach. Estate is valued at $3000.00. Heirs are widow Harriet E. Beach, E. W. Merrill, and C. A. Merrill of Whitewater.Harriet Beach asks that administration of the estate be granted to Charles T. Scofield. Petition witnessed by C. T. Scofield, Justice of the Peace in Whitewater twp. Recorded in Liber 1, pages 330-331.

5-6. 21 Feb. 1870. Administrator's Bond. Estate of William Merrill- Charles T. Scofield and Hiland J. Beach offer a bond of $6000.00 to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Recorded Liber 1, page 333.

7-10. 21 Feb. 1870. Appraiser's Warrant. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate appoints Upsall Harrison and Joseph T. Luce to appraise William Merrill's estate. They are to report results to administrator Charles T. Scofield. They swear to do so on 22 April 1870. Charles T. Scofield swears inventory is correct on 23 April 1870 with Curtis Fowler as witness.Estate includes land: NE 1/4 of section 30 [?] Township 28 North, Range 9 West consisting of 160 acres and NW 1/4 of NE 1/4 of section 32 Township 28 North, Range 9 West consisting of 40 acres. Also one wagon, one cow, one 2-year-old heifer, one yearling heifer, two spring calves, three hogs, one drag with 11 teeth, 24 bushels of spring wheat, 50 bushels of oats, a fanning mill, a barrow, a table, a stand, dishes, and one stove. Total estate valued at $2852.00. Recorded Liber 1, pages 345-347.

11-14. 3 July 1871. Petition for License to Sell Real Estate. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, hears administrator Charles T. Scofield say that personal property of estate is worth $272.00. Of this $200.00 was selected by the widow leaving $72.00 to pay debts. Debts are $320 and administration costs are expected to be $50. Signed by Harriet Beach, William E. Merrill, and C. A. Merrill of Whitewater who ask to sell entire estate. Recorded in Liber 1, pages 334-336.

15. Notes. [Curtis Fowler's handwriting]. Probate Court 26 Aug. 1871- William Merrill's estate. Petition of C. T. Scofield to sell land. Court grants petition.

16. 5 March 1872. Administrator's Sale Notice. D. C. Leach, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears that he published notice from 4 Jan. to 15 Feb. 1872. Witnessed by Lovell H. Gage, Notary Public. Notice states that the Charles T. Scofield, administrator of estate of William C. Merrill, has asked Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, to sell land.

17. 26 Aug. 1871. Probate Order Notice. A. H. Johnson, foreman of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears that he published notice from 13 July to 10 Aug. 1871. Witnessed by C. T. Scofield, Justice of the Peace. Order states that C. T. Scofield asks to sell land. Petition to be heard on 26 Aug. 1871.

18. 25 Dec. 1871. Notes. Administrator's sale notice. [text for notice #16].

19. 26 Aug. 1871. Oath Before Sale of real Estate. Estate of William Merrill- Charles T. Scofield swears to sell land most advantageous. Witnessed by C. Fowler, Judge of Probate.

20-22. 26 Aug. 1871. Bond on sale of Real Estate. Charles T. Scofield and Hiland S. Beach of Whitewater offer bond of $3000 to Curtis Fowler. Scofield is administrator. Witnessed by T. T. Scofield and Richard Tray [?]. Recorded Liber 1, pages 339-340.

23-26. 4 March 1872. Report of Sale of Real Estate. Charles T. Scofield, administrator of the estate of William C. Merrill, states that auction was held on 20 Feb. 1872 at his dwelling house in Whitewater. Legal description of land. It was sold to Hiland S. Beach. Sworn by C. T. Scofield in front of Curtis Fowler. Recorded Liber 1 page 341.

27-28. 4 March 1872. Confirmation of Sale. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, for estate of William C. Merrill with administrator Charles T. Scofield . Description of land provided. It was sold on 17 Feb. 1872 to Hiland S. Beach.

29-30. Administrator's Sale Notice. L. B. Rickerd being duly sworn says that the notice a copy of which is hereunto annexed has been posted in the township of Whitewater in the three public places.

31. 7 Dec. 1872. Note. Whitewater. Curtis Fowler- Dear Sir, my wife has signed the petition you wished me to appoint a day would appoint Thursday the 26th of this month for us to meet. If there is anything more for us to do before that time please write. Yours truly, H. S. Beach.

32. Notes. [Curtis Fowler's handwriting]. William C. Merrill [notes list dates of action, action, liber, page].

33-34. Petition. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate- Harriet Beach petitions for 1/3 interst in purchase money of William C. Merrill's estate in lieu of dower. Recorded Liber 1, page 343.

35. 12 Oct. 1868. Receipt. Received from Wm. C. and Harriet E. Merrill $50.00. Whitewater, Syvenus A. Rice.

36. 19 Sept. 1868. Receipt. Received from Wm. C. and Harriet E. Merrill $52.00. Karl Brockmeyer and Frank Brockmeyer.

37. 30 Dec. 1868. Receipt. Received from Wm C. Merrill and Harriet E. Merrill $36.00. D. E. Cushman.

38. 26 Oct. 1868. Receipt. Wm C. Merrill and Harriet E. Merrill $6.40. Henry S. Allen.

39. 8 Nov 1868. Receipt. Wm C. Merrill and Harriet E. Merrill $52.50. J[?] Eugene Hill.

40. 29 Sept. 1868. Receipt. Wm C. Merrill and Harriet E. Merrill $74.00. James Dunham.

41. 1 Oct. 1868. Receipt. Wm C. Merrill and Harriet E. Merrill $29.00. John Decker.

42. 1 March 1868. Receipt. Wm C. Merrill and Harriet E. Merrill $89.00. T. M. Merrill.

43. 13 June 1868. IOU. Elk Rapids- Six months after date I promise to pay to the order of Dexter and Noble $125.00 interest 0 percent.

44. 6 Sept. 1870. Receipt. Traverse City- C. T. Scofield pays one percent of William Merrill's estate $28.50. H. E. Steward, County Treasurer.

45. 1868. Receipt. Wm C. Merrill and Harriet E. Merrill $31.00. Charles Stuart [?].

46. 18 Sept. 1868. Receipt. Wm C. Merrill and Harriet E. Merrill $6.50. Lorin Rise.

47. 18 May 1870. Receipt. Whitewater- this is to certify that I have colected the following personal property- 1 wagon, 1 cow, 2 heifers, 2 spring calves, 3 hogs for $200.00. Harriet E. Beach.

48. 5 June 1871. Ledger Receipt. Estate of William C. Merrill- Hiland S. Beach lent Harriet E. Merrill money to pay debts and probate costs. Witnessed by Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

Probate File 110: Adoption, Confidential Material

1. File Jacket. [names covered] Probate Calender 101. [Probate Calender indicates that Estella Lacegunthy[?] became Estella Hopper.]

Probate File 111: Guardianship of Fannie Turrill

Summary: Fannie Turrill was born in 1856/1857, daughter of Henry Turrill, who died prior to July 1871. Martha Wadsworth was Fannie's grandmother. She asked that Samuel Northam be appointed Fannie's guardian.

1. File Jacket. Fannie Turrill, minor. Samuel K. Northam, guardian. Probate Calender 57.

2-3. 7 July 1871. Letter of Guardianship. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints Samuel K. Northam guardian of Fannie Turrill, a child under the age of 14 years. She is the daughter of Henry Turrill who is deceased. Northam is required to prepare an inventory of the estate by 1 January 1872. Recorded in Liber 1, page 291.

4-5. 12 July 1871. Guardian's Bond. Estate of Fannie Turrill, Samuel K. Northam and Leroy Warren offer bond of $1000 to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Witnessed on 19 July 1871 by Curtis Fowler.

6. 9 July 1871. Letter. [Letterhead Lovell H. Gage, Attorney at Law]. "Judge enclosed find petition and the only personal estate Miss Turrill has is her allowance from U. S. on death of her father and I forgot to ask Mrs. W. the amount. If necessary I will obtain it but hoping it may be correct as it is am hastily Very truly yours - Gage."

7. Notes- Petition for Appointing Guardianship. Martha A. Wadsworth petitions Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, to appoint Saml K. Northam of Traverse City to be guardian of Fannie Turrill.

8. 7 July 1871. Petition for Appointment of Guardian. Martha A. Wadsworth has a minor child in Traverse City named Fannie Turrill. She is age 11 and her parents are dead. Martha Wadsworth is Fannie's grandmother. Wadsworth asks that Samuel K. Northam of Traverse City be appointed guardian. Witnessed by L. H. Gage, Notary Public.

9. 24 July 1871. Letter. To Judge, Mr. Northam called concerning guardianship of Miss Fannie Turrill. Bond has been paid. Mrs. Wadsworth has charge of granddaughter Miss F. Monet is due from U. S. and there is the need for a certified copy of papers to get back pension.

Probate File 112: Estate of William Samels

Summary: William Samels died on 16 January 1871 in Whitewater twp, preparing a will that day. He left his entire estate to an unnamed wife.

1. File Jacket. William Samuels [Samuels crossed out] Samels, deceased. James Hammond, administrator. Probate Calender 60, page 34.

2. 6 April 1875. Receipt. Mr. James Hammond, in account with Grand Traverse Herald, D. C. Leach, editor and proprieter [one year subscription was $2.00]. For advertising probate notice estate of Wm Samels- $5.00.

3. 7 Aug. 1871. Receipt. Traverse City, received of James Hammond administrator $8.15 for appraisement of estate of Wm. Samels. H. E. Steward, County Treasurer.

4-5. 1871. Account. Estate of Wm. Samels, deceased. Received payment: 8 March 1871 C. J. Scofield for 1338 pounds of corn in ear at one cent per pound $13.38, 3 Aug. 1871 Upsall Harrison for calf $8.00, 8 Feb. 1872 J. B. Smally $12.00 due the estate, 8 March 1871. paid to L. B. Rickard for coffin $5.00, 1 April 1871 paid to D. C. Leach for probate order $5.50, 7 Aug. 1871 paid to County Treasurer percentage on inventory $8.15, 22 Jan. 1872 paid J. B. Rickard for serving summons on Wm. B. Durga .45, 10 Feb. 1872 for taxes $3.00, and 10 Feb. 1872 paid to Mrs. Samels $9.00.

6. 29 Sept. 1871. Claim. Elk Rapids- estate of Wm. Samuels. Dexter and Noble make claim for land purchased. Land is NE 1/4 of NE 1/4, section 2 and NW 1/4 of NW 1/4, section 1 of Township 27 North, and Range 9 West in Grand Traverse County. Mortgage was for $240.00, amount owed on 1 Oct. 1870 was $223.77. Also owed for scythe and rake, Gervas Watson Neale [?] $246.43.

7-9. 1872. Accounts. Estate of Wm. Samels, deceased. 22 Jan. 1872, paid to L. B. Rickard for serving summons to Wm. R. Durga .45, 10 Feb. 1872 paid to town treasurer for taxes $3.00, 10 Feb. 1872 paid to Mrs. Samels $9.00, 15 Oct. 1872 paid to Dexter and Noble $245.80 for note given by Wm. Samels on 17 Feb. 1868. Total paid out $276.90. Balance at hand .50. 8 March 1871 received of C. T. Scofield $13.30, 8 Feb. 1872 J. B. Smalley $12.00, 5 July 1872 received of C. J. Scofield on judgment against Wm. R. Durga principal and interest $127.20, 2 Oct. 1872 received of Wm. Watson for one bay amre $125.00, 15 March 1871 paid to L. B. Rickard for coffin $5.00, 1 April 1871 paid to D. C. Leach $5.50, 7 Aug. 1871 paid to County Treasurer $8.15.

10. 6 April 1875. Probate Order Notice. D. C. Leach, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears that he printed the probate order for three weeks from 4 March to 25 March 1875. Witnessed by Thos. T. Bates, Notary Public. Probate Order states that a court session was held on 1 March 1875 with C. J. Scofield, Probate Judge. James Hammond, executor, asks to be discharged. Anyone having claims to come to hearing on 5 April 1875.

11-12. Account Book. [same as 7-9 except] Paid ti A. Young $3.00 on 10 Feb. 1872.

13-14. 6 April 1875. Discharge of Administrator. Charles J. Scofield, Judge of Probate, discharges James Hammond as administrator of William Samels estate.

15. Notes. Probate Court held in Traverse City on 1 April 1871 with Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Last Will and Testament of Wm. Samels produced. Testimony of Fielding Watson of Whitewater heard. He was acquainted with testator for 15 years. Wm. Samels had lived in Whitewater township and died there on 16 Jan. 1871. Said will was the same as he had witnessed. James Hammond was appointed executor, Almon Young and Upsall Harrison appraisers.

16-18. 7 Aug. 1871. Commissioners Warrant and Report. Estate of William Samels, Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints Almon Young and Charles J. Scofield are appointed commissioners. Notices to be posted in Whitewater and in Dexter & Noble's store in Elk Rapids. They swear they will do so on 16 Aug. 1871 and this is witnessed by D. B. Scofield, Justice of the Peace. Dexter & & Noble claim $246.43. Young and Scofield spent one day doing this. Recorded in Liber 1, page 327-330.

19-22. 1 April 1871. Appraiser's Warrant. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints Almon Young and Upsall Harrison appraisers for the estate of William Samels of Whitewater. They are to report to James Hammond. They agree to do so 15 April 1871, witnessed by C. J. Scofield, Justice of the Peace. Inventory was appraised on 15 April 1871 and James Hammond swears it was true on 5 June 1871, witnessed by Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Inventory of estate lists land worth $520.00, note due estate for $100 by Wm. R. Durga. One mare, one cow, two yearlings, one sow, two pigs worth $292.00. One table, one bedstead, three chairs, one stove worth $3.00. Total comes out to $815.00. Recorded in Liber 1, pages 324-326.

23. 6 Feb. 1871. Probate Order. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, was presented Last Will and Testament of William Samels, presented by James Hammond. Hearing set 1 April 1871.

24. 30 March 1871. Probate Order Notice. D. C. Leach, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears he published probate order for three weeks from 9 March to 30 March 1871. Witnessed by T. T. Bates, Notary Public. Probate Order states that Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, hears James Hammond who brought will of William Samels. Hearing set for 1 April 1871.

25. 16 Jan. 1871. Last Will and Testament. William Samels of Whitewater township asks that debts be paid and leaves land and appurtenances to beloved wife. Appoints James Hammond executor. Witnessed by Stephen Pray and Fielding Watson of Whitewater.

26-27. 1 April 1871. Proof of Probate of Will. Estate of William Samels, Fielding Watson of Whitewater says he knew William Samels of Whitewater for 14 years. Samels died on 16 Jan. 1871 and Watson witnessed will that day with Stephen Pray. Swore this in front of Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Recorded in LIber 1, page 321.

28. 12 Dec. 1890. Certificate of Probate of Will. Henry D. Campbell, Judge of Probate, notes that estate of William Samels of Whitewater township had been assigned to Curtis Fowler on 6 Feb. 1871. Will was witnessed by Stephen Pray and Fielding Watson. William Samels died on 16 Jan. 1871 and James Hammond was named executor and gave bond of $1400. [note at base of page] certificate of probate couldn't be found in file- this resolves problem.

29-30. 8 April 1871. Executor's Bond. James Hammond, Upsall Harrison, and Almon Young offer bond of $1400 to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, for executorship of William Samels estate. They are to report to James Hammond, executor. Witnessed by C.J. Scofield, Justice of the Peace.

Comment: The 1870 Census lists the Samels family in Whitewater twp. William Samels was 45-years-old and was born in England. His wife Marian, 37, was also born in England. Three children lived in the household: Mary Samels, 16 and born in Canada West, Philip Samels, 6 and born in Michigan, and Frank Samels, 2 born in Michigan.

Probate File 113: Estate of John W. Bennett.

Summary: John W. Bennett died on 3 April 1869. Bennett had been married twice. Children by his first marriage were Lydia Bennett (possibly Mrs. L. C. Cool), Louise Bennett, and Adelbert Bennett. John Bennett's second wife was Elizabeth. They had two children: John R. Bennett and Mary A. Bennett.

1. File Jacket. John W. Bennett, deceased. Lovell H. Gage, Administrator. Page 65.

2-3. 14 Feb. 1872. Letter. Angelica, Alleghany County, N.Y. To Surrogates Court of Grand Traverse County. Mrs. L. C. Cool received letter from Lovell H. Gage of Traverse City stating he is administrator of John W. Bennett who died last spring. Mrs. L. C. Cool is a daughter of said Bennett and wasn't aware father had married in Michigan and had children by second marriage. She wants to know amount of estate and the number of children and a name of a reliable attorney. She was informed of a will and would like to know if there was one. J. A. Sanford, Attorney.

4-5. 18 Aug. 1879. Discharge of Administration. Charles T. Scofield discharges Lovell H. Gage from being administrator of John W. Bennett's estate.

6-7. 5 June 1871. Petition for Appointment of Administrator. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, is petitioned by Mrs. Elizabeth Bennett of Traverse City, John W. Bennett died on 3 April 1869 in Traverse City and left no will. Estate is valued at $600. Heirs are Elizabeth Bennett of Traverse City [widow]; Lydia Bennett, Louisa Bennett, and Adelbert Bennett of location unknown [children by first marriage], and John R. Bennett and Mary A. Bennett of Traverse City [children by second marriage]. Elizabeth Bennett asks that Lovell H. Gage be appointed administrator. Recorded in Liber 1, page 480. Sworn by Elizabeth Bennett on 5 June 1871 in presence of Jesse Crain, Notary Public.

8-9. 24 Aug. 1871. Administrator's Bond. Lovell H. Gage and Wayland W. Bartlett offer $1000 bond to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, for John W. Bennett's estate. Lovell H. Gage is the administrator. Gage and Bartless witnessed document on 4 Sept. 1871. Recorded in Liber 1, page 481-482.

10. File jacket. [same as 1]

11. Receipt. 1 Jan. 1881. Traverse City, Estate of John W. Bennett is charged $5.50 for printing Probate Order on 5 June 1879 by the Grand Traverse Herald. L. H. Gage is the administrator.

Probate File 120: Adoption, Confidential Material

1. File Jacket. [names covered]. Probate Calender 104. [Probate Calender indicates that Elcy Wells (infant) became Elcy Adell Bloodgood.]

Probate File 121: Adoption, Confidential Material

1. File Jacket. [names covered]. Page 62. [Probate Calender indicates that Robert M. Williams (infant) became Robert Nathaniel Hopper.]

Probate File 122: Guardianship of Eugene W. Merrill and Carrie A. Merrill

Summary: Eugene Merrill (b. 1856/1857) and Carrie Merrill (b. 1867/1868) were children of William C. Merrill and Harriet S. Merrill. Harriet Merrill later married Hiland S. Beach, who had been appointed their guardian.

1. File Jacket. Eugene W. Merrill and Carrie A. Merrill, minors. Hiland S. Beach, Guardian. Probate Calender 8, page 8.

4-5. 25 Feb. 1881. Petition. Hiland S. Beach reports to Henry D. Campbell, Judge of Probate, that he is presenting final account for heirs of W. C. Merrill, late of Whitewater. Eugene W. Merrill has reached the age of 21 years and final account is presented. Other ward, Clara A. Merrill, has been adopted into his family and is now Clara A. Beach. He does not make a final account for her. Campbell discharges Hiland S. Beach as guardian of Eugene W. Merrill. Recorded Liber 2, page 10.

6-7. 22 Aug. 1877. Return of Marriages in the County of Antrim. Record Number 44, Joshua Cronne (age 22, born in Canada, farmer) married Carrie Beach (age 19, born in Michigan) on 1 June 1885 in Elk Rapids. Both lived in Whitewater. They were married by J. Ward Davis, Justice of the Peace. The ceremony was witnessed by Samuel and Mary Cronne (?) Of Elk Rapids. Recorded 14 Sept. 1885. John A. Harriman, clerk, swears account is true (by E. A. Harriman, deputy).

9. 18 Aug. 1887. Receipt. Carrie Cromie recieved $2500 from Hiland S. Beach. She swears statement is true on 23 Aug. 1887 to Henry D. Campbell, Judge of Probate.

10-11. 23 Aug. 1887. Discharge of Administrator. Highland S. Beach discharged as administrator for estate of Carrie A. Merrill by Henry D. Campbell, Judge of Probate. Recorded Liber 2, page 283.

12-13. 19 March 1878. Eugene W. Merrill received mortgage from Hiland S. Beach. Mortgage made by John M. Merrill to Highland S. Beach ans covers land in Grand Traverse County. Eugene Merrill discharges Beach as his guardian. Henry D. Campbell discharges Hiland S. Beach from this guardianship on 25 Feb. 1881.

14. 27 July 1872. Harriet S. Beach, late widow of William C. Merrill, states she has two minor children: Eugene W. Merrill, aged 15, and Carrie A. Merrill, aged 6. Father is deceased and she is their mother. They have an estate valued at $2500. She asks that Hiland S. Beach be appointed guardian. Sworn at Williamnsburg in front of C. T. Scofield, Justice of the Peace.

15-16. 30 July1872. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, nominates Hiland S. Beach of Whitewater to be guardian of Eugene W. Merrill and Carrie A. Merrill. Harriet E. Beach had petitioned court. Witnessed by C. T. Scofield, Justice of the Peace.Recorded ook 1, pages 348-349.

17. 2 Sept. 1872. Letter of Guardianship. Hiland S. Beach named guardian of Eugene W. Merrill and Carrie A. Merrill. They are children of William C. Merrill, late of Whitewater. Beach is to make inventory by first Monday of February. Signed by Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Recorded Liber 1.

Comment: Eugene Merrill and Carrie Merrill (listed as Merrell) are found on the 1870 census living with Hiland and Harriet Beach in Whitewater twp. Eugene was 13-years-old and born in Michigan. Carrie was 4-years-old and born in Michigan. Hiland Beach was 37-years-old and born in New York and Harriet Beach was 34-years-old and born in Michigan.

Probate File 123: Estate of Donald McDougal

Summary: Donald McDougal died on 1 February 1872. He had a wife named Marion and an adopted daughter Elizabeth Jane McDougal. Marion McDougal died within a year of her husband.

1. File Jacket. Donald McDougal, deceased. Alva K. Wynkoop, administrator. Probate Calender 9, Liber 29.

2-5. 12 Oct. 1872. Appraiser's Warrant. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints George N. Campbell and Lucius A. Knight, to appraise estate of Donald McDougal. They are to report to Alvah K. Wynkoop. They swear they will do so on 18 Nov. 1872, witnessed by Hawley Gerrell [?], Justice of the Peace. Inventory was completed by 26 Nov. 1872. Alvah K. Wynkoop says it was correct on 2 Dec. 1872 in front of Curtis Fowler. Inventory lists McDougal's estate: NE 1/4 of section 24, Township 25 North, Range 10 West totalling 80 acres; one cow, one no. 9 cook stove and furniture, two grind stone, one five pail kettle, one hay fork, one hoe, two small scythes, one scythe, one c[?] hook, nine drag teeth, 1200 feet common lumber, 200 feet cull lumber, 15 bush wheat, one double barrel shot gun, one rifle, one cross cut saw, one cross cut hand saw, one slit hand saw, one jack plane, one smothing plane, one set match plane, one 1 1/2 inch chisel, one 3/8 inch chisel, one steel square, one broad axe, one 2 inch auger, one 1 inch augur, one bit stock, one 6/8 inch augur, one 1/2 inch augur, one hammer, one oil stove, one wood bench screw, one lantern, one gallon tin can, two 2 gallon tin cans, two woolen shirts, three pair woolen drawers, and money ($178.92). Recorded Liber 1, page 473-474.

6-7. 31 Aug. 1872. Petition for Appointment of Administrator. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, is petitioned by Alva K. Wynkoop of Grand Traverse Co. He states that Donald McDougal of Paradise died about 1 Feb. 1872, leaving a will. Estate is worth $500 and the heirs are Elizabeth Jane McDougal and Agnes Lyle of Paradise.

8. 9 Sept. 1872. Petition. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, is petitioned by Alva K. Wynkoop who asks that the estate of Donald McDougal be admitted to probate. Court session is to be held on 12 Oct. 1872.

9-10. 12 Oct. 1872. Petition for Probate of Will. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, hears statement of George N. Campbell who swears he resides in Paradise and knew Donald McDougal for over three years. McDougal died about 1 Feb. 1872. George Campbell witnessed will on 4 Jan. 1872 in Paradise with Alvah K. Wynkoop.

11-12. 12 Oct. 1872. Certificate of Probate of Will. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, hears George N. Campbell swear he witnessed will. Alvah K. Wynkoop had petitioned for probate of will. Other witness was Alvah K. Wynkoop, who is to offer a bond of $1000. Recorded in Liber 1, page 467-468.

13. 4 Jan. 1872. Last Will and Testament. Donald McDougal of Paradise leaves 1). wife Marion McDougal all land except 1/2 acre where the burying ground is. 2). all goods and chattels to Marion McDougal as long as she remains his widow, if she remarries then it shall be resold and she gets 2/3 and the remaining 1/3 to adopted daughter Elizabeth Jane McDougal for the purpose of educating her. In case of wife Marion's death before two years of date- all property sold and all to go to daughter Elizabeth Jane McDougall excepting the cow which shall go to Agnes Lyle. Witnessed by Alvah K. Wynkoop and George N. Campbell.

14-15. 12 Oct. 1872. Executor's Bond. Estate of Donald McDougal [James Smith crossed out, Lorenzo Smith and Hiram Dawson also crossed out]. Alvah K. Wynkoop and Charles A. Denniston offer bond of $1000 to Curtis Fowler. Witnessed by George Thomson. Recorded Liber 1, page 464.

16-17. 17 Nov. 1869. Letters of Administration. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, makes Alvah K. Wynkoop administrator of the estate of Donald McDonald [sic] McDougall.Recorded in Liber 1, page 463. Witnessed [?] by John Will. W. Willey, and William Wasdon [?].

18. 12 Sept. 1872. Probate Order Notice. D. C. Leach, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears he published the probate order for four weeks from 19 Sept. to 11 Oct. 1872. Witnessed by Jesse Crain, Notary Public. Probate Order states that Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, held hearing on estate of Donald McDougal. Alvah K. Wynkoop prays that will be proved. Court session to be held on 12 Oct. 1872.

19-20. 10 Nov. 1890. Letter. Gladstone, MI. [To] H. D. Campbell, I saw McCarver thought had no deed but found it. Land sold for taxes in 1878, purchased by administrator Mr. Denniston. Mrs. McDougal died inside of a year after her husband. Title should belong to me. Wants deed made out in her name. Will pay all charges. Mrs. Lizzie J. Skeels.

21. 4 March 1873. Letter. Mayfield, [to] Judge C. Fowler. George W. Neal and George N. Campbell will accept commission on McDougal estate. Please send me an order to sell the personal property. A. K. Wynkoop, administrator.

22. 7 Feb. 1873. Letter. [almost same as 7, except Wynkoop asks to settle estate as soon as possible]

23. 2 Dec. 1872. Receipt. Received of Alvah K. Wynkoop $5.00, one percent of appraisement of estate of Donald McDougal. Received by H. E. Steward, County Treasurer.

24. 31 July 1872. Letter. "Can't be in Traverse City at next court. Make out papers for D. McDougal estate and send. A. K. Wynkoop.

25. 5 Oct. 1874. Letter. Dalhousie- to Judge- I have been requested by the sister and two brothers of late Donald McDougal for information as they are interested in a just sett;ement. They want a copy of the will, statements of personal property. and how divided between Elizabeth Jane McDougal and Agnes Lyle or Knight. [opposite side with writing not filmed]

26-27. 11 Jan. 1872. Power of Attorney. Donald McDougal gives power of selling any property to my executors soley for the express benefit of my family. Written by William Sparling.

28. Codicil. Donald McDougal "weak in body but sound in mind" gives full powers to my executor.

29. 12 Oct. 1872. Notes. [in Curtis Fowler's handwriting]. George Campbell swears he witnessed will of Donald McDougal.

30. Notes. [in Curtis Fowler's handwriting]. appraisers of McDougal estate are Geo N. Campbell and Lucius A. Knight of Paradise.

31-32. 14 July 1882. Indenture. Hubert R. Pratt, deputy auditor of Michigan, and Elizabeth Jane McDougal. Land is S 1/2, NE 1/4, section 20, Township 25 North, Range 10 West totalling 80 acres. Witnessed by Abram Hernby [?] and Edith E. Dague. [illegible name] Notary Public, Ingham County, MI. Recorded 13 Feb. 1884, Liber 22, page 485 by D.[?] Carver, Register.

33. 21 Feb. 1881. Letter. Newberry, KS to H. D. Campbell, Judge of Probate. "Received card of Feb. 5 saying he hadn't fulfilled law of 1873 section 1 act no. 95. Says he made yearly return to 1878. Have not done so afterward as he had requested final settlement. Judge Schofield claimed returned were incomplete from Judge Fowler's administration. Would like to settle, send papers to Thomas Wynkoop of Paradise. Let him settle in my name. I have no papers. Newberry, Wabaninsee Co., Kansas. Alva K. Wynkoop."

34. 21 Feb 1884. Account. [note written by A. K. Wynkoop} Donald McDougal's estate [summarizes account].

35. 2 Dec. 1878. Account. Chas. T. Scofield, Judge of Probate [lists amounts due estate] A. K. Wynkoop, D. Griswold, G. Thompson, Denison claim, G. W. Neal, and G. N. Campbell.

36. 1871. Account. For hauling, eggs, flour, cash, butter, eggs, from 26 April to 22 December for Donald McDougal. Other purchases- expectorant, codfish, saleratus, nutmegs, flaxseed, two spools of thread, buttons, file, gall oil, three sticks licorice, pint whiskey and bottle, wine, cherry pectoral, one bottle launadum, one dozen screws.

37-41. 1871. Accounts. To C. A. Denniston: pork, flour, tea, three yards cotton, salt petre, one box matches, timothy seed, clover seed, one broom, sulpher, gall oil, one pair hose, codfish, one packahe s[tove?] polish, one bottle expectorant, pepper, and # one shot [among other listings].

42. Receipt. Estate of Donald McDougal to Dr. H. D. Griswold $10.00.

43. 14 Oct. 1872. Receipt. George Thomson given $75.00 from estate of Donald McDougal. He didn't clear and fence land.

44. 6 Oct. 1873. Receipt. Mr. Theo H. West- account of D. C. Leach for probate notice for estate of Abram West $5.50.

45. Receipt. Estate of Donald McDougal- Geo W. Neal charges for trip to Traverse City and two days service $4.25.

46. 21 June 1873. Claim. Walton [MI}- Estate of Donald McDougal, account with Agnes L. Knight for services rendered for 3 1/2 years. 20 Oct. 1868 first two years at $8.00 per month, third year and 5 1/2 months at $12.00 per month. Last two weeks (during sickness) at $10.00 per week. Total comes to $422.00. To board and care of Elizabeth Jane McDougal for 14 months at one dollar per week comes to $60.00. Total claim is $482.

47. 13 Dec. 1872. Commissioner's Warrant and Report. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints George N. Neal and George N. Campbell appraisers for estate of Donald McDougal. They agree to be appraiser's on 11 March 1873. Witnessed by William F. Denniston, Justice of the Peace. Claims are: Dr. H. D. Griswold for visits and medicine $10.00, received $7.49; C. A. Denniston store account $60.69, received $64.47; George Thompson $75.00, received $80.25; and Agnes L. Knight $482.00, disallowed. Fees for George N. Campbell. Recorded in Liber 1, page 469.

Comment. The 1870 census lists the McDougal family in Paradise twp. Donald McDougal was 33-years-old, wife Marian was 32-years-old, and daughter Elizabeth was 3-years-old. All were born in Canada West.

Probate File 124: Estate of Isaac Norton

Summary: Isaac Norton died intestate on 3 February 1872 leaving six children: Maryette Wightman (b. 18 Aug. 1848), Elnora Norton (b. 13 Dec. 1858), William Henry Norton (b. 9 Jan. 1860), Marcus Eugene Norton (b. 3 Sept. 1862), Able Miander Norton (b. 7 Feb. 1865), and Ida May Norton (b. 2 July 1866).

1. File Jacket. Isaac Norton, estate. Columbus Winne, administrator. Probate Calender 131.

2-3. 3 Feb. 1872. Petition for Appointment of Administrator. To Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Petition of Maryette Norton Wightman of Grand Traverse Co. Isaac Norton of Blair township died there on Saturday, 3 Feb. 1872, leaving no will. Leaves property of $1400 and heirs Maryette Wightman, 23; Elnora Norton, 13; William Henry Norton, 11; Marcus Eugene Norton, 9; Abel Miander Norton, 7; and Ida May Norton, 5. Maryette Wightman asks that administration be granted to Columnus Winne or some other suitable person. Blair, 7 Feb. 1872, witnessed by Riley Norton and Maryette Wightman. On 9 Feb. 1872, Maryette Wightman swears petition is true before Horace E. Wightman, Justice of the Peace.

4. Letters of Administration form. [blank]

5. 8 April 1872. Probate Order Notice. D. C. Leach, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears that he published the probate order from 29 Feb. to 21 March 1872. Sworn in front of Thos. T. Bates, Notary Public. Probate Order notes that court seesion was held on 19 Feb. 1872 with Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Estate of Isaac Norton, daughter Maryette Wightman asks that administration be given to Columbus Winne. Session is to held on 23 March 1872.

6. 18 April 1872. Appointment of Administrator. [handwritten] Estate of Isaac Norton- heard Maryette Wightman ask that Columbus Winne be named administrator. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, asks that Winne execute bond. Appears [?] James Monroe and Wm Monroe, Commet[?] Wm Monroe, Frederick H. Stephenson.

7-9. Jan. 6-29, 1872[?]. Account. I. Norton's account with G. Greilick. Due on settlement from Dec. 30th: 103,823 ft logs hauling $1.12 1/2; brough over $115.14 for beer, one fowl, one overcoat bought of Ross, breaking one spring seat, to Dr., 8 days board for self and team from Jan. 27th to Feb. 9th, 2 days more board, cash paid L. Hopkins,one pair socks, seven days feed for team and self, two glasses beer, cash, one pitcher beer, cash from Dick, seven days board self and team, seven days board self and team, cash paid Thomas Cutler, cash paid Thomas Cutler, seven days board self and team, paid Linton, one meal for man and team, pay for coffin- $12.00, paid for team getting coffin, paid Haskin for washing, 1 1/4 labour for grave and box- $2.00, board for 5 teams and 5 men day of funeral- $8.70, doctor bill- $15.00, paid C. Peas for borrow money. Total $115.14.

10-11.. April 1872. Administrator's Bond. Estate of Isaac Norton. Columbus N. Winne and William Monroe offer Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, bond of $2000. Witnessed by Curtis Fowler, James H. Monroe, William Monroe, and Columbus N. Monroe.

12. Note. Maryette Wightman 23-years-old 18 Aug. 1871, Elnora Norten 13-years-old on 13 Dec. 1871, William Henry Norten 11-years-old on 9 Jan. 1871, Marcus Eugene Norten 9-years-old on 3 Sept. 1871, Able Miander Norten 7-years-old on 7 Feb. 1872, and Ida May Norten 5-years-old on 2 July 1871. Monroe Centre, Feb. 5, 1872. G. H. Wightman.

13. Notes. [miscellaneous notes about Probate File written by Curtis Fowler]

14-15. 19 Feb. 1872. Probate Order. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, hears Maryette Wightman ask that Columbus Winne be named administrator for estate of Isaac Norton.

16. Commissioner's Warrant and Report. [blank]

Comment: Isaac Norton was listed on the 1870 census in Blair twp. He was a 42-year-old New York native.

Probate File 130: Adoption, Confidential Material

1. File Jacket. [names covered]. 1873. Probate Calender 104. [Probate Calender indicates that Charles E. Willowlasky (infant) became Chas. E. Hicks.]

Probate File 131: Guardianship of James Letterland, William Letterland, and Marie Letterland

Summary: James Leatherland, William Leatherland, and Marie Leatherland were children of William and Mary Leatherland. William Leatherland died and Mary Leatherland asked for custody.

1. File Jacket. James A. Letterland, William J. Letterland, and Marie L. Letterland, minors. M. E. A. Letterland, guardian. Probate Calender 63.

2-3. 7 July 1873. Guardian's Bond. Estate of James A. Letterland, William J. Letterland, and Marie L. Letterland. M. E. A. Letterland, Hiram C. Baker, and George McDowell execute bond of $1400 to C. J. Scofield, Judge of Probate. The three are children of William Letterland of Grand Traverse Co., deceased, and are under the age of 14 years. Witnessed by L. H. Gage on 2 July 1873. Recorded Liber 1, page 450.

4. Petition for Appointment of Guardian. To C. J. Scofield, Judge of Probate, Mary E. Letterland has three minor children who live in Grand Traverse Co. They are James Alfred Letterland, aged 9; William J. Letterland, age 7; and Marie L. Letterland, age 5. Father is dead and petitioner is their mother. Estate in Grand Traverse Co. is valued at $700.00. Witnessed on 7 July 1873 by C. J. Scofield, Judge of Probate.

5-7. 7 July 1873. Letter of Guardianship. Estate of James A. Letterland, William J. Letterland, and Marie L. Letterland, children of William Letterland, deceased. Mary E. A. Letterland is given guardianship. Recorded in Liber 1, pages 451 and 456.

Probate File 132: Guardianship of Mary Isabelle Coughran

Summary: Mary Isabelle Coughran was the daughter of John A. Coughran, who died prior to 1873. Mary A. Coughran was appointed her guardian.

1-2. File Jacket. Mary Isabelle Coughran, minor. Mary J. Coughran, guardian. Probate Calender 76.

3. 6 Jan. 1873. Appointment of Guardian. C. J. Scofield, Judge of Probate, holds probate court for estate of Mary Isabel Coughran, minor. Petition of Mary J. Coughran who asks that she be appointed guardian. Mary Isabel Coughran also asks that Mary J. Coughran be appointed. Mary J. Coughran asked to execute bond of $1000.

4-5. 6 Jan. 1873. Letter of guardianship. Estate of Mary Isabel Coughran, C. J. Scofield, Judge of Probate appoints Mary A. Coughran guardian. Mary Isabel Coughran is over 14 years old and was daughter of John A. Coughran of Grand Traverse County. Mary J. Coughran is asked to make an inventory by 3 Feb. 1873.

6. 6 Jan. 1873. Petition. To Curtis Fowler [crossed out] Charles J. Scofield, Judge of Probate. Petition of Mary J. Coughran who has a minor child aged of 14 in Traverse City. She is the mother and daughter has an estate worth $1000. Mary J. Coughran asks to be appointed guardian. Witnessed by C. J. Scofield, Judge of Probate.

7. Petition. Mary Isabel Coughran nominates and appoints Mary A. Coughran to be "my guardian."

8. Envelope. Mary J. Coghran, guardian for Mary Isabel Coghran, minor.

Comment: The Coughran family was living in Peninsula twp in 1870. John Coughran was 44-years-old and a Vermont native. Wife Mary Coughran was 35-years-old and had been born in New York. Daughter Mary Coughran was 11-years-old and had been born in Wisconsin.

Probate File 133: Guardianship of Elizabeth Jane McDougal

Summary: Elizabeth McDougal (b. 1866/1867) was the adopted daughter of Donald McDougal (see Probate File 123). A number of individuals wanted to be her guardian.

1. File Jacket. Elizabeth J. McDougal, minor. Geo. N. Campbell, guardian. William F. Denniston, guardian. Probate Calender 64.

2. Petition. Petition of Agnes Knight taken. She swears she has been a member of Mr. McDougal's family and was with them about nine years. About two months before, Mr. and Mrs. McDougal requested she should take care of this child. Wm. S. Denison swears that he is acquainted with McDougal 's wish that the petitioner should keep child. Wyncoop swears that there was not any arrangement regarding keeping the child.

3-4. 20 Oct. 1873. Letter of Guardianship. Grand Traverse Co.- Charles T. Scofield, Judge of Probate, appoints William F. Denniston guardian of Elizabeth J. McDougal, the adopted child of 14 years or less of Donald McDougal of Grand Traverse County. Deniston is to make inventory by 20 January [1874]. Recorded in Liber 6, page 441.

5-6. 7 July 1873. Letter of Guardianship. Charles T. Scofield, Judge of Probate, appointed guardian of Elizabeth J. McDougal. She is under 14 years of age and was adopted daughter of Donald McDougal. Geo. N. Campbell is to make an inventory by 1 Jan. 1873. Recorded on page 476.

7-11. 2 Aug. 1873. Petition. Petition of Agnes Knight, formerly Agnes Lyle, of Grand Traverse County. On 7 July 1873, George Campbell was appointed guardian of Elizabeth J. McDougal, who is 6 years old. Geo. N. Campbell has no family and the six year old is to be raised by strangers. Petitioner shows ahe has long been a member of the family of Donald McDougal. Donald and Marion McDougal were the persons who had custody, maintenance, and education of Elizabeth J. McDougal, who was condfided to the McDougals by her mother. Donald and Marion McDougal, before their deaths, asked petitioner to be a mother to the child and take care of her. Agnes Knight wants custody of the child. Asks that Geo. N. Campbell appear before the next court and show why he should not be removed. She says that during their last illnesses Donald and Marion McDougal asked her to keep custody of Elizabeth J. McDougal. Geo. N. Campbell had removed child forcibly against wishes of the petitioner and child and forbids petitioner from seeing or speaking to the minor except by his consent or in his presence. Child was in custody of petitioner with knowledge and consent of the mother, who is now living. Agnes Knight swears the statement was true on 2 August 1873 in front of William F. Denniston, Justice of the Peace.

12. Letter. "Mr. George N. Campbell, Guardian of Elizabeth Jane McDougal. Sir: Providence never having favored us with any offspring to love, to provide for, and to eductae, we would petition to adopt Elizabeth Jane McDougal, in as much she is left an orphan, in one sense of the word, making her an heir, in which case we would wish her name changed to Wynkoop. Should this petitio meet your approval, please take measures to legalize the adoption. A. K. Wynkoop. Ettie C. Wynkoop. Paradise, Aug. 20, 1873. Approved by George N. Campbell, Guardian, Sep 1, 1873.

13-14. 7 July 1873. Guardian's Bond. George N. Campbell and Alvah K. Wynkoop offer bond of $500 to Charles J. Scofield for estate of Elizabeth Jane McDougal. George N. Campbell, guardian of Elizabeth Jane McDougal, who is under 14. Parents are unknown. Witnessed by Curtis Fowler. Recorded in Liber 1, page 477-478.

15-16. 20 Oct. 1873. Guardian's Bond. Dewitt C. Leach, Thos. T. Bates, and Charles [crossed] William F. Denniston offer bond of $800 to Charles T. Scofield for estate of Elizabeth Jane McDougal. William F. Denniston is guardian of Elizabeth Jane McDougal. Witnessed by L. H. Gage. Recorded in Liber 6, page 441.

17. 7 July 1873. Petition for Appointment of Guardian. C. J. Scofield, Judge of Probate, petitioned by Alvah K. Wynkoop who says that there is a minor child who resides in the town of Fife Lake. Elizabeth J. McDougal is six years old and parents are deceased. Child has real estate in Paradise township valued at $300. Wynkoop asks that George N. Campbell of Paradise be appointed guardian.

18. 4 April 1903. Note. Hodge- John A. Loranger, "all the report I can make in the matter of the estate of Elizabeth McDougal is that I do not know any [illegible] I had no business relations with any parties in your cort in mor than 30 years I will be in the city in June on business for a bout a week and will see you".... Geo. N. Campbell.

Probate File 134: Estate of James Graham

Summary: James Graham died on 2 March 1873 in Sarnia twp, Lambton Co., Ontario. He left a widow, Mary, who later married John Young.

1. File Jacket. James Graham, deceased. Probate Calender 79.

2-4. 21 Dec. 1883. Order Allowing Claims. Henry D. Campbell, Probate Judge, held a court session where claims on the estate of James Graham were to be brought forward. None did so. Recorded in Liber 9, page 293.

5-6. 20 July 1883. Probate Order Notice. Jos. Pohorol, foreman of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears he published the probate order for four weeks from 21 June to 19 July 1883. Witnessed by Thos. T. Bates. Court session held 18 June 1883 and six months were to be allowed for claims on estate of James Graham. Notice cost estate $4.45.

7-9. 18 June 1883. Probate Notice for Hearing Claims Before Court. Henry D. Campbell, Judge of Probate, sets date of Probate Court hearings for estate of James Graham: 6 Aug. and 21 Dec. 1883. Recorded in Liber 9, page 292.

10-11. 18 June 1883. Claims Heard by Court. Henry D. Campbell, Probate Judge, orders that court be held on 21 Dec. 1883 for claims to be heard. Recorded in Liber 2, page 291.

12-13. 13 March 1883. Petition for Probate of Will. Henry D. Campbell, Probate Judge, hears petition that states that James Graham of Sarnia township, Lambton Co., Ontario died at his residence on 2 March 1873 leaving a will dated 18 Dec. 1872 which was witnessed by Charles M. Garvey of Sarnia and Robert Wells of Walton, Lambert Co., Ontario. Petitioner is widow and executor. Deceased had property in Grand Traverse Co. worth $500. Only person who had interest in will is the petitioner and the deceased's mother, who died on 1 July 1876. Petitioner is now Mary Young, wife of John R. Young of Sarnia twp. She married him on 11 Aug. 1876. Petition is dated 13 March 1883 and is witnessed by J. R. G[illegible], Judge of Probate. Recorded in Liber 7, page 58.

14-15. 19 March 1883. Order of Hearing. Henry D. Campbell, Probate Judge, orders that notices be published and estate claims heard for estate of James Graham of Sarnia, Lambton Co., Ontario. Mary Young, wife of John R. Young and formerly Mary Graham, shows that will was probated on 2 April 1873 and asks that estate be settled.

16-17. 13 April 1883. Probate Order Notice. Jos. Pohorol, foreman of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears he published notice from 22 March to 12 April 1883. Witnessed by Thos. T. Bates. Notice states that a court session was held on 19 March 1883 with Henry D. Campbell hearing petition of Mary Young, wife of John R. Young and formerly Mary Graham, who presents will of James Graham. Hearing of petition set for 13 April 1883.

18-21. 3 April 1873. Exemplification of Probate. In her Majesty's Surrogate Court of the County of Lambton: James Graham of Sarnia twp. died on 2 March 1873. Mary Graham, his widow, and William McCrie, yeoman, are executors. They came to court with will which was proved and registered. Administration granted to Mary Graham and William McCrie. They are asked to make an inventory of the estate. Signed by J. R. Gerrull[?], Registrar Surrogate Court. Will states that James Graham of Sarnia leaves: 1). all real and personal estate to wife Mary Graham. 2). he desires that his mother should have, hold, enjoy, and be allowed to reside upon the east hald of the west 1/2 of Lot 1 in that concession of twp. of Sarnia for the term of her natural life. Appoints Mary Graham and Wm. McRie of Sarnia executors. Will dated 18 Dec. 1872. Witnessed by C. M. Garvey of Sarnia, student-at-law, and Robert Wells of Watfon, cooper. Recorded in Liber 7, pages 59-60 by Henry D. Campbell, Probate Judge.

22-23. 13 April 1883. Court Order. Henry D. Campbell. Probate Judge, issues order stating that Mary Young, wife of John R. Young and former wife of James Graham, is only heir of James Graham.

24-25. 13 April 1883. Letters Testamentary. Henry D. Campbell, Probate Judge, issues testamentary letters for estate of James Graham of Sarnia.

26. 18 Nov. 1884. Letter. Sent to Henry D. Campbell, Probate Judge, letter asks that estate of James Graham be closed. Sent by J. R. Gerrill [?].

27. 9 Aug. 1883. Letter. Sent to Henry D. Campbell, Probate Judge, letter notes that another letter was mailed on 12 June last with $6.00 required to complete case of Graham probate. Mrs. Young is anxious to settle matter and has heard nothing. Signed by J. R. Gerrill[?].

28-29. 30 April 1883. Letter. To Judge of Probate: short time ago James Graham, resident of Lambton Co. died leaving property to wife Mary Graham, appointing her and Wm. McCrie executors. Land conveyed to widow and will has been proved in probate. Widow wants to sell land which is NW 1/4 of section 24, Township 25 North, Range 10 West. James Graham obtained patent on 15 Aug. 1872, published 28 Dec. last. Asks what else needs to be done to settle matter. Sent by J. R. Gerrill [or Gemmill?], Registratar Surrogate Court Lambton Co.

30. 1883. Account. [envelope lists expenses for March and April 1883]

31. 24 May 1884. Letter. To H. D. Campbell-presumes estate of James Graham will be settled, please advise if this is the case. Sent by J. R. Gerrill [?]

32. 12 June 1883. Letter. To H. D. Campbell-enclosed is $6.00 to perfect Graham probate. Sent by J. R. Gerrill [?].

33-34. 15 March 1883. Letter. To H. D. Campbell- letter sent by Mrs. James Graham who is now Mrs. Mary Young, wife of John Young of Sarnia and who resides at Mandarmum. She asks why fees increased from $15.00 to $20.00. Mrs. Young sent $3.00 with George Thomson who paid at Recorder's office 4 or 5 years ago. Enclosed is $15.00. Signed by J. R. Gerrill[?].

35. 2 Feb. 1882. Letter. County and Surrogate Courts, Lambton. About six years ago George Thomson left will of James Graham to be recorded. Please advise whether will was recorded. Sent by Mrs. James Graham, please address to J. R. Gerrill [or Gemmill?].