Pioneer Families of Grand Traverse County, Michigan

Probate File 1: Estate of Nathanial Worden

Summary: Nathaniel Worden died 23 June 1853 intestate.

1. File Jacket. Nathan Worden, deceased. Oliver J. Sheldon and A. Tracy Lay, administrators. Geo N. Smith [Judge of Probate]

2-3. 24 June 1853. Appointment of Executors. A. Tracy Lay and Oliver Sheldon ordered to appraise estate of Nathan Worden, deceased, by Robert McLellan, Justice of the Peace. Reverse says "Cyrus Clade [?] w Estate of Nathaniel Worden."

4. Bill. Bill of Estate of Mr. Worden. To Mr. Clapp; board, furnishing necessaries, washing clothes for Mr. Worden and Mrs. Smith. Signed by Alvin A. Smith. Total came to $5.31.

5-8. 26 June 1853. Inventory of Effects. Nathan Worden died 23 June 1853 at 6 pm. A. Tracy Lay and Oliver J. Sheldon appointed appraisers by Robt McLellan, Justice of the Peace in Grand Traverse County. Items inventoried included cash, a watch, shirts, hat, blue overcoat, brown frock coat, suspenders, envelopes, pencil case, pens, razors, strap, flannel shirts, two rings, one book, one trunk. Also a promissory note "Chicago June 7 [or 4] 1853. Received of Mr. Nathaniel Worden a note for 91 63/100 from Mr. Daniel Thomas to Mr. Nathaniel Worden dated July 5, 1851. Signed by James P. Allen and [illegible] Slater." A. Tracy Lay and Oliver J. Sheldon made the inventory.

9-12. Copy of above inventory.

13-14. 1855. Inventory. Nathaniel Worden's estate appraised by C. Germaine and Thomas Cutler, appointed by Geo N. Smith. Total of estate appraised at $24.20. Sold at auction 6 Aug. 1855 for $27.18. Hannah Lay & Co. allowed $37.34 for care and expenses of Worden and was owed $10.16 from estate. A. Tracy Lay asks Geo N. Smith what disposition shall be made for the last above named balance.

15-16. 7 July 1853. Claim. Estate of Nathaniel Worden to Charles C. Hulbin. Medical care $10.00, paid by Hannah Lay & Co.

17-18. 25 June 1853. Claim. Nathaniel Worden's estate billed $10.00 by Dr. Cyrus Clapp for attending.

19. 23 June 1853. Claim. Nathaniel Worden's estate billed .50 cents by Cuyler Germaine for brandy. Paid by Hannah Lay & Co.

20-21. 23 Aug. 1854. Appointment of Administrator. Oliver J. Sheldon and A. Tracy Lay appointed administrators of Nathaniel Worden's estate by Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate.

22. 15 Aug. 1854. Letter. Written to A. Tracy Lay asking him to inventory estates of Nathaniel Worden, Frederick Addler, and William May. Worden's estate will only pay expenses of settlement and funeral charges and $14.14 will remain to be owed. Lay asked for particulars by Geo N. Smith.

23-24. 21 Aug. 1854. Claim. Hannah Lay & Co summarizes bills owed by Nathaniel Worden's estate. For "damaging bedclothes $1.50 and making coffin, digging grave $4.00." A. A. Smith paid, Chas A. Hulbin, Cyrus Clapp, Cuyler German have bills due Hannah Lay & Co. totaling $37.31.

25. 21 Aug, 1854. Inventory. Cuyler Germaine and Thomas Cutler make inventory. It amounts to $24.20. Witnesses by A. Tracy Lay, Justice of the Peace.

26-27. Administrator's Bond. A. Tracy Lay and Oliver J. Sheldon appointed administrators by Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate. Thomas Cutler and Wm McKillips named sureties.

Probate File 2: Estate of Frederick Adler

Summary: Frederick Adler died intestate on 18 February 1854.

1. File Jacket. Frederick Adler, deceased. Henry D. Campbell and Wm M. McKillips, administrators. Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate.

2. 21 Aug. 1854. Inventory. Cuyler Germaine and Thomas Cutler appraise Frederick Addler's estate. Among items listed are a double barrel gun, a black silk handkerchief, a McGuffey's 4th Reader, an Adam's Arithmetic, an Elementary Spelling Book, hickory shirts, an old cotton striped shirt, a looking glass, an old worn vest, and money due from Hannah Lay and Company. The total came to $143.12 and the document was witnessed by A. Tracy Lay, Justice of the Peace.

3. 6 Aug. 1855. Record of Sale. Frederick Adler's personal possessions (valued at $20.47) were sold at an auction for $22.16. William M. McKillips and H. D. Campbell ask Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate, what the disposition of the estate is to be.

4-5. Bond. Frederick Adler died intestate on 18 Feb. 1854. William M. McKillips and Henry D. Campbell appointed administrators by Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate. Thomas Cutler and A. Tracy Lay are sureties.

6.7. 23 Aug. 1854. Appointment of Administrators. Henry D. Campbell and William M. McKillips appointed administrators to the estates of Frederick Addler and William May by Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate.

8-9. Appointment of Administrators. Copy of document 6-7.

Probate File 2.5: Guardianship of Blanche M. Whipple

Summary: Blanche M. Whipple was born 28 Feb. 1853, daughter of Evert N. and Sarah Whipple of Cleveland. Parents deceased prior to July 1868, Whipple asks that Dr. Samuel S. Wright be appointed her guardian.

1. File jacket. Blanch M. Whippell, minor. Saml S. Wright, guardian. Probate Calendar 57, page 48.

2. 26 Oct. 1868. Appraiser's Warrant. Curtis Fowler, Justice of the Peace, asks Jesse Crane, H. P. Barker, and Lyman G. Wilcox to appraise the estate of Blanche M. Whipple. They are to deliver the inventory to Samuel S. Wright. Document witnessed by Edwin S. Pratt, Notary Public.

3-5. 21 Nov. 1868. Inventory. L. G. Willcox, Jesse Crane, and H. P. Barker make inventory for Blanche M. Whipple, minor of Samuel S. Wright. Sworn before Samuel Wright and Edwin S. Pratt, Notary Public. Inventory includes mortgages issued to George N. Lawrence and wife and E. Manville and wife. Also five oil paintings, a Brussels carpet, sofa, and marble topped table (among other items). Total came to $798.00.

6-7. 6 July 1868. Nomination of guardianship. Blanche Whipple aged 15, daughter of Evert N. Whipple of Cleveland (deceased) and his wife Sarah (also deceased) asks that Dr. Samuel Wright be appointed guardian. Witnessed by Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

10.    6 July 1868. Bond. In the matter of the estate of Blanch M. Whipple, we Samuel S. Wright and Mrs. Harriet Whipple of Traverse City and Charles C. Henderson of Chicago have paid bond to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Witnessed by Reuben Hatch, Jr. and E. S. Pratt.

11-12. 6 July 1868. Letter of Guardianship. Estate of Blanche M. Whipple, daughter of Evert and Sarah Whipple (deceased). Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, asks to appoint Samuel S. Wright guardian.

13-14. 6 July 1868. Petition to be appointed guardian. Samuel S. Wright asks Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, to be made guardian of Blanche Whipple. Blanche born 28 Feb. 1853, daughter of Evert N. Whipple of Cleveland.

15. 13 May 1869. Receipt. Samuel S. Wright pays $8.00 for inventory of Blanche M. Whipple's estate. Money received by H. E. Stewart, treasurer of Grand Traverse County.

16. 24 June 1871. Letter. [Letterhead} Lowell H. Gage, Attorney at law, Traverse City. L. H. Gage asks Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, whether Samuel Wright was appointed guardian of Whipple.

17-19. 6 July 1868. Probate Court Hearing. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints Samuel Wright to be Blanche Whipple's guardian. E.S. Pratt appoints Jesse Crane, H. P. Barker, and Lyman G. Willcox appraisers.

20-21. 6 July 1868. Letter of Guardianship. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints Samuel S. Wright guardian of Blanche M. Whipple.

Probate File 3: Estate of William May

Summary: William May died intestate 17 April 1854. He was working as a lumberman for Hannah Lay & Co. Father James May and brother Michael May of Charlotte's Town, Prince Edward Island, Canada mentioned.

1. File jacket. William May, deceased. Henry D. Campbell and Wm M. McKillips, administrators. Geo N. Smith [Judge of Probate]. Probate Calendar 38, Ledger page 7.

2-4. 2 March 1855. Letter. James May of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island [Canada] writes and asks that Wm. McPhilips and A. Tracy Lay cannot doubt his claim to William May's estate. He was informed of the death by Mr. Rennie. A copy of a letter written to James May is included: dated 10 July 1853, working in lumber woods for $20.00 a month, will be home next spring. Wants to know where John Sergent is. "I remain your affectionate son, William May." Michael May, oldest son of James May, testifies that he is a brother of William May, testifying in Charlotte Towne on 2 March 1855 in front of Robert [illegible].

5-6. 21 Aug. 1854. Inventory. William May died in Traverse. Inventory made by Cuyler Germaine and Thomas Cutler, appointed by Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate. Items included one double barrel shotgun, an old and worn woolen coat, a satin vest, a pair of old boots, one trunk, and the amount owed him by Hannah Lay & Co. Total came to $236.73. Sworn in front of A. Tracy Lay, Justice of the Peace.

7-8. 14 July 1854. Appointment of Appraiser. Cuyler Germaine and Thomas Cutler appointed to appraise estates of Frederick Addler, who died 18 Feb. 1854, William May, and Nathaniel Worden. They are to report to Henry D. Campbell and William M. McKillips for the first two and Oliver J. Sheldon and A. Tracy Lay for the third, by order of Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate.

9. Bill. William May owed $5.00 for two steel traps sold to him by John Snerny.

10-11. Administrator's bond. William M. McKillips and Henry D. Campbell appointed administrators by Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate. They are to administer estate of William May, who died intestate 17 April 1854. They paid bond. Thomas Cutler and A. Tracy Lay are sureties.

12. 6 July 1855[?]. Inventory and sale. Inventory of William May's estate was made by C. Germaine and Thomas Cutler. Valued at $11.77, it sold at auction for $14.75. Additionally, Hannah Lay & Co owed William May for wages totaling $194.18. Total was $208.93, minus a debt of $1.50 and fees of $6.00. Geo N. Smith is asked what the disposition of $201.43 should be.

Probate File 4: Estate of Alvin S. Lawton

Summary: Alvin S. Lawton died intestate in Antrim County prior to 29 Sept. 1854.

1. File Jacket. Alvin S. Lawton, deceased. William Rankin, administrator. Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate.

2-3. 26 Aug. 1855. Appointment of Administrator. William Rankin appointed special administrator of the estate of Alvin S. Lawton, late of Antrim County by Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate.

4-5. 6 Sept. 1855. Bond. William Rankin as principal and John S. Barker and Franklin Quigley as sureties pay bond of administration as ordered by Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate, for the estate of Alvin S. Lawton. This was witnessed by William Slawson and Lorenzo J. [?] Barney.

6. 24 Oct. 1854. Notice. Susanah Lawton and Lorenzo L. Barney ask to be administrators of the estate of Alvin S. Lawton. Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate, sets a hearing for 31 Oct. 1854.

7. 29 Sept. 1854. Letter. Solomen Case and Timothy D. Woodward of Antrim are appointed appraisers of Alvin S. Lawton's estate by Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate. They are ordered to deliver the appraisal to Susanna Lawton and Lorenzo J. [?] Barney.

Probate File 5: Guardianship of Mary Lawton

Summary: Mary Lawton was the minor daughter of Alvin S. Lawton, who died in the summer of 1854. Joseph Dame and, later, John S. Barker were appointed her guardian.

1. File Jacket. Mary Lawton, minor. John S. Barker, guardian. Geo N. Smith, [Judge of Probate]. Probate Calendar 40.

2-3. 9 July 1855. Appointment of Guardian. Joseph Dame of Leelanau appointed guardian of Mary Lawton, daughter of [Alvin] Lawton, who drowned in the summer of 1854 in Antrim. Mary had no mother or father. Joseph Dame agreed to "provide her physical and moral well being according to your best judgment." Joseph Dame was also asked to make an inventory of her small effects by Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate. Joseph Dame swore that he would do so in front of Geo N. Smith, with a $100 bond paid on 22 August 1855 with Richard W. Smith and Elisha P. Ladd, sureties.

4-5. 26 August 1855. Appointment of Guardian. John S. Barker appointed guardian of Mary Lawton, minor daughter of Alvin S. Lawton, late of Antrim (now Mezizee) who drowned in the summer of 1854. Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate signed document.

Probate File 6: Estate of Isaac Fonda

Summary: Isaac P. Fonda died intestate between 10 Nov. and 30 Nov. 1855, probably in Elk Rapids. He left behind a three-year-old daughter [not named] and a wife that had apparently run away with another man between Sept. and Nov. of 1855. Accounts provide information on store purchases.

1. File Jacket. Isaac C. Fondee, deceased. Rial Johnson, administrator. Geo N. Smith and Theophilus Woodruff, Judge of Probates

2-3. 15 May 1857. Bill. The estate of Mr. Fonda. Dr. L. Charles Rupell [Russell] charges $3.00 for making coffin in Nov. 1855.

4. 26 Apr. 1855. Note. Received Grand Traverse- of Mr. Isaac P. Fonda this note for $156.35 in settlement of all accounts to this date. Signed by William Rankin.

5-6. 15 Dec. 1858. Letter. Asks for Special Administrator for Isaac P. Fonda, deceased, of Elk Rapids. Estate of about $500.00 with debts of $250.00. Heir is a three-year-old girl. "Wife left him sometime in September under such circumstances and in such company in connection with her conduct since, as leave no doubt that had he have lived he would have obtained a divorce." Letter asks that Riel Johnson be placed as administrator. Signed by Jno S. Barker, Solomen Case, and N. B. Cowles. Sent to Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate.

7-8. 20 April 1856. List of Debts. Mezizee [name of town?]. To Judge of Probate. List of debts and credits of Isaac P. Fonda. John S. Barker and Riel Johnson purchased his land for $100, Norman B. Cowles owed $27.81, [illegible] owed Dr. bill $15.50, M. Crawles owed $46.42, J. Rankin and sons owed $156.32, Charles Russell owed $3.00, Solomen Case owed $55.00. Total comes to $404.05. Letter sent to Geo N. Smith from Riel Johnson.

9-10. 16 May 1857. Bill. Estate of Isaac Fonda from M. Craw [Crawle?] Co. for store purchases from 14 Feb. to 10 Nov. 1855. Purchases listed include pork, tea, sugar, rice, pepper, and salt (among others). Claim rejected by statement of administrator that Craw & Co. owed Fonda for shingles to the amount.

11. 27 Sept. 1854. Contract. Agreement between Isaac P. Fonda and J. Rankin & Sons of Elk Rapids. Fonda agrees to chop, burn, and clear of all brush and timber and to bank all good saw logs of hemlock, basswood, [illegible], and birds eye maple and pine. To finish by 1 Oct. 1855. J. Rankin & Sons will furnish teams as necessary and pay $15.00 per acre.

12. 15 Dec. 1856. Bill. Solomen Case charges $55.00 for nursing of Isaac Fonda and for his funeral. He received $20.00 of this amount from Riel Johnson.

13-14. 1 Jan. 1856. Appointment of Administrator. Geo N. Smith, Probate Judge, appoints Riel Johnson to be administrator of Isaac P. Fonda's estate.

15-16. Ledger. Isaac Fonda's account with B. Cowles for 30 June to 10 Nov. 1855. Fonda had purchased tobacco, tea, sugar, rice, solarities, a silk handkerchief, candles, a gallon of vinegar, coffee, flannel, and was charged sundries for shroud. Bill totaled $27.81 and was paid from estate on 20 May 1857.

17-18. 30 Nov. 1855. Bill and Credits. Isaac Funday owed D. E. Cushman $19.00 for medicine and medical treatment and $2.75 for two hens. Fonda was credited $6.25 for an Indian Blanket and wife's labor. The remaining $15.50 was paid by Riel Johnson on 8 March 1856, this being witnessed by James J. McGlaughlin.

19. Bills and Credits. Isaac P. Fonda account with Riel Johnson from 29 May to 2 Nov. 1855. He owed for potatoes, pork, boarding with family, boarding girl, nails, shirts, cotton cloth, and flour (among others). Credit of $58.00 for "choping 10 days work" and for potatoes and turnips. His estate owed $56.20.

20-21. 20 May 1857. Lists of Claims and Accounts Presented. Estate of Isaac C. Fonda. People making claims were Riel Johnson, E. D. Cushman, S. Case, Jno S. Barker, Norman E. Cowles, Charles Russel, and J. Rankin & Sons.

22-23. 24 June 1853. Note. "For orders received we jointly and severally agree to pay Joseph Sours $100 in Nov. next. Isaac C. Fonda, Riel Johnson, and Jno S. Barker of Antrim. Rec'd from Riel Johnson $50.00 on 15 Dec. 1855, Jno S. Barker $10.00 on 30 April 1856, and [illegible] from Jno S. Barker on 19 June 1856."

24-25. 1 Jan. 1856. Appointment of Special Administrator. Riel Johnson appointed special administrator by Geo. N. Smith, Judge of Probate.

26-27. 30 March 1857. Notice of Hearing. Riel Johnson wishes to sell real estate to pay estate debts. Theophilus Woodruff, Judge of Probate, orders that creditors be notified.

28-29. 1 April 1857. Petition. Riel Johnson informs Theophilus Woodruff, Judge of Probate, that Isaac Fonda had no personal estate and had debts of $404.05. Administration costs were estimated to be $20.00.

30-31. 15 Dec. 1855. Bond. Riel Johnson, principle and Jno S. Barker and Solomen Case of Elk Rapids as sureties. Witnessed by Joseph Jones and James McLaughlin.

32-33. 1855. Account. J. Rankin & Sons account for Isaac Fonda lists purchases from 20 April to 17 August 1855. Purchases included pork, rice, butter, flour, sugar, and "barr soap." A credit for shingles and potatoes is noted. Bill totals $26.97.

Probate File 7: Estate of Archibald Jamison

Summary: Archibald Jamison was apparently declared insane and Lewis S Ensign was appointed his guardian.

1. File jacket. Archibald Jamieson, insanity. Probate Calendar 100.

2-3. 27 Nov. 1876. Order to appear in court. Letter to Archibald Jamison of Kalamazoo. A petition was filed by wife Jennie Jamieson who asks that Lewis S. Ensign be appointed guardian of Archibald Jamison's estate. C[harles]. L. Scofield, Judge of Probate, orders hearing. Papers served in Kalamazoo by Henry M. Hurd on 13 Dec. 1876. Hurd swears this in front of James Woodbridge, Notary Public, in Kalamazoo.

4-5. 20 Nov. 1876. Indigent or Insane Person. Archie Jamison resided in Kalamazoo for two years and in Grand Traverse for five years prior. Has been insane since April or May and has not enough property to support himself. Statement signed by L. L. Ensign and given to Charles L Scofield, Judge of Probate.

6-7. 25 Nov 1876. Petition for Appointment of Guardian. Charles L Scofield, Judge of Probate, is petitioned by Mrs. Jennie Jamieson to appoint Lewis L Ensign guardian over Archibald Jamison. Jamison has real estate in Leelanau valued at $600. S. H. Gage, Justice of the Peace, witnessed the document.

Comment: The Jamiesons are listed in the 1870 census in Traverse twp. Archibald Jamieson was born in 1831/1832 in Canada West and Jane Jamieson was born in 1843/1844 in Canada West.

Probate File 8: Care of Archibald Jamison

Summary: File contains bills and receipts relating to Archibald Jamison's stay at the Michigan Asylum for the Insane.

1. File jacket. Estate of Archibald Jamison. Lewis L. Ensign, guardian.

2-3. 1 May 1877. Bill. [Letterhead] Michigan Asylum for the Insane. For board and a set of clothing for Archibald Jamison from 1 Feb. to 6 Feb. 1877: $57.92. H. Montague, steward of the Asylum signs bill.

4. 13 Oct. 1877. Receipt. [Letterhead] Office of Thos. T. Bates. Received of Mrs. Jamison, $50 amount advanced by H. E. Stewart from Poor Farm. Signed by John L. Beuder, treasurer of Grand Traverse County.

5-6. 1 Feb. 1877. Bill. [Letterhead] Michigan Asylum for the Insane. Board and some clothing for Archibald Jamison from 28 Nov. 1876 to 1 Feb. 1877: $34.52. Received from Mrs. Jamison, $56.92, as noted by John L. Beuder, treasurer of Grand Traverse County. H. Montague, steward, notes that account is correct.

Probate File 9: Estate of Peter Coutrie

Summary: Peter Coutrie died on 18 September 1859 in Peninsula twp., leaving a will. A document in which Coutrie's son-in-law, John Bourasau, testifies about witnessing the will is found in File 30, probably misplaced there.

1. File Jacket. Peter Coutes, deceased. George Lardee, Jr., exec[utor]. Probate Calendar 45.

2-3. 9 April 1862. Probate Notice. Morgan Bates, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears that an advertisement appeared in the Grand Traverse Herald. The ad stated that Peter Coutrie was deceased, that George Lardie, Jr. had been named executor, with Curtis Fowler as Judge of Probate.

4-5. 3 March 1862. Petition for Probate. George Lardie states that Peter Coutrie of Peninsula departed life on 18 September 1859 leaving a will. Coutrie's personal property was estimated to be worth $150. Lardie asks Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, to admit the case to probate.

Probate File 10: Guardianship of Josephine Hessel

Summary: George Hessell granted guardianship of Josephine Hessel, aged 11 in 1855. Josephine's mother had died in Germany circa 1846-1848. Her father was traveling in Europe.

1. File jacket. Estate of Josephine Hyluck, minor. George Hessel, guardian. Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate

2. 24 July 1856. George Hessell of North Unity township [Leelanau County], petitions Geo N Smith, Judge of Probate for guardianship. States that he was a cousin to Madam Heful of Heyar [?], Germany. She died leaving a female infant who was committed to Hessell's care by her father, who was traveling in Germany. [illegible] Bartling took Josephine Hessell (aged 11) and is not a blood relative.

3. 24 July 1856. Geo N. Smith appoints George Heful guardianship of Josephine Hybeck. Her mother died 10 years ago in Germany and her father is traveling in Europe.

Comments: Spelling of George Hessell and Josephine Hylucks' names varies. If George Hessel is the cousin of Josephine's mother, then it is likely that Hyluck (or a spelling variant) was her last name and that she adopted Hessel after the guardianship action. Original document does not have the given name of the Bartling individual

Probate File 11: Estate of Antoine Manseau

Summary: Antoine Manseau dies between 1855 and 1858. He left behind a wife Julia and seven children: Antoine Manseau, Joseph L Manseau, Catherine Manseau Miller, Emily Manseau Grant, Philomena Manseau Paul, Odilla Manseau Mosier, and Lute[?] Manseau Dean. File contains numerous claims, ledger accounts, and testimony about people working in the early lumber industry.

1. File Jacket. Antoine Mosseau, deceased. John Miller, administrator. Geo N Smith, Judge of Probate. Probate Calendar 41, page 25.

2. 5 March 1863. John Miller has given paid estate debts and is giving the following $300 each: Antoine Manseau, Catherine Miller, Lute[?] Dean, Emly Grent, Philomenne Paul, Odillia M Mosier, and Joseph L Manseau.

3-4. 14 Jan. 1860. Administrator's Bond. John Miller, Philo Beers, and Amos Fox offer $3000 so John Miller can administer Antoine Manseau's estate. Geo N. Smith is Judge of Probate.

5. 29 Oct. 1860. Letter of Guardianship. Antoine Manseau is deceased, leaving Joseph L. Manseau, a minor under 14 years. John Miller and Catherine Miller are told to make an inventory of his goods.

6. 28 July 1855. Account record. Antone Masfau from Joseph Harper. Bill for $266.12 for one yoke of oxen and one yoke chain, one anvil, one bellows, two screw plates, one bull wheel chain, and 1/2 barrel of lard.

7. 21 Dec. 1857. Bond of Administration. Leelanau twp, G.T. Co. John Miller, Henry Buckman, and John Bryant (sureties), will make an inventory of Antoine Manseau's estate for Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate.

8-9. 17 Nov. 1858. Subpoena to testify. Cornelius L[illegible], John Swap, and Jacob Shops are ordered to appear at the dwelling of the widow Manseau in the village of Leland. D. L. Write is a plaintiff in the estate of Antoine Manseau. Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate.

10. 1 Dec. 1856. Bill. R. L. McVicker[?] submits claim for $23.70. Claim is written in French.

11. Account record. Running Dexter's logs, running logs in creek, running Robinson's logs, amount of Manseau's effort equals $158.04. Due estate is $2.58.

12 Bill. Due John P. Miller on book account $35.20

13. Invoice [in French]. Manseau owed to A. M. Michams $146.72. Among items listed is "une chaise perdue."

14-15. 16 Nov. 1858. Claim. A. M. Michams acts against Massau estate for $231.37 1/2 for logging work.

16-17. 16 Nov. 1858. Balance due John Sean on book account is $46.34 from A. Manseau. John P Miller listed as administrator.

18-19. 16 Nov. 1858. Claim made by John Lakes on 16 April 1856 for work, log chain, work on vessel, work by Horace, one order paid to A. Cavis, one order on Mr. White, one days work on vessel by Horace, one days work by Genary, Genull & Delong, Micham, Robertson, Jones, Buckman, Glemar[?], Delong, Cook, Monseau. Total comes to $721.52. [Not sure what this means, feet of logs is mentioned, perhaps these men worked for Manseau logging?]

20. 1 May 1855. Claim. Antoine Manseau owes Dr. L[?] Francis Jeffrey for 62 days work at 14 shillings per day. Receives $20.00 from estate.

21-22. 1855. Claim. Antoine Manseau owed Joseph Harper $50.58 for passage on schooner "Bel," duck eggs, work at mill, etc.

23. Claim. Antoine Manseau's estate owed Joseph Harper $300.00 for one vessel "Lillie," lamps, and chains.

24. 27 Aug. 1858. Claim. Mr. Antoine Manseau bought calf boots and a double shawl in 1855 and on 9 Feb. 1857[?] from Burbee & White

25. Bill of costs. Joseph Harper, plaintiff, bills Antoine Mossau, defendant, $5.87. Nicholas Bowen is Judge of Probate.

26. 1855. Antoin Massau owes J. Dame $18.75 for 25 bushels of potatoes.

27. 14 Sept. 1858. Ledger account. A. Manseau owed H Dexter $119.87 owed for groceries. These included a boat sail, pork, potatoes, sugar, butter, nails, flour, and rice.

28-29. 14 Sept. 1858. Ledger account. Antoine Mossoe to M. H. Dexter. $44.04 owed for dried apples, sugar, meal, butter, nails, flour, pork, peas, molasses, rice, and boots. Total comes to $119.87.

30-31. 8 April 1856. Ledger claim. Antoine Massue purchased from M. H. Dexter: screw bolts, straps, nails, rudder to Antoine Mutt, Buckman, load vessel, "lent cash to [illegible] Harper's lawsuit, plant corn, cash to John Miller, was going to the island, two days work myself and Judson, 1/2 days work self and Judson and Judson one day and knight besides." Total $44.04. "bill of logs that Rock and Robersen got in $147.87"

32-33. 17 Sept. 1860. Road Commission Document. Geo N Smith, Judge of Probate and commissioner of highways of Milton twp, G.T. , appoints David H Parks, George Luke, and Darwin E Cushman commissioner of roads. The location of several roads are described.

34-35. 29 Oct. 1860. Bill. Estate of Antoine Mansau. John Miller appointed special administrator and charges $35 to appoint Joseph L Manseau a guardian. Bill for legal services.

36. 27 Oct. 1862. Petition. From Leland, relatives of Joseph L Manseau (who is under 14 years of age) ask to appoint Antoine Manseau guardian of said Joseph Manseau. Signed by Joseph L. Manseau, John P. Miller, and Catherine Miller. Petition addressed to Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate, and recorded in Liber 1 page 43.

37. 1 Nov. 1860. Receipt. Received from John Miller from estate of Antoine Manseau $150 representing part of money belonging to Joseph L. Manseau- signed Antoine Manseau.

38. 20 Oct. 1860. Receipt. Received from John Miller from Antoine Manseau's estate $150- part of said estate. Signed by Philomen Paul.

39. 20 Oct. 1860. Receipt. Received from John Miller from Antoine Manseau's estate $150- part of said estate. Signed by Emily Grant.

40. 20 Oct. 1860. Receipt. In Leland, received from John Miller from Antoine Manseau's estate $150- part of said estate. Signed by Odillia M. Mosier.

41. 20 Oct. 1860. Receipt. In Leland, received from John Miller from Antoine Manseau's estate $150- part of said estate. Signed by Julia Dun.

42. 20 Oct. 1860. Receipt. In Leland, received from John Miller from Antoine Manseau's estate $150- part of said estate. Signed by Catherine Miller.

43. 27 Oct. 1860. Receipt. In Leland, received from John Miller from Antoine Manseau's estate $150- part of said estate. Signed by Antoine Manseau. Also received an additional $159 per agreement with other heirs.

44-45. 20 Oct. 1860. Receipt. In Northport, received from Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate, $1200 belonging to estate of Antoine Manseau. John P. Miller, administrator. Recorded Liber 1 p. 41.

46-47, 26 Dec. 1860. Receipt. In Leelanau, $40 received from Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate, from Antoine Manseau's estate. Signed by John P. Miller, administrator. Recorded Liber 1 p. 41.

48. 10 Aug. 1860. Receipt. Received from Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate, $60 administration fees for Antoine Manseau's estate by John P. Miller, administrator.

49. 25 May 1860. Receipt. In Northport, received from Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate, $300 from Antoine Manseau's estate until the title of certain lands and premises is perfected. Signed by John P. Miller.

50. 20 Aug. 1860. Petition. In Milton twp, Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate, asked to appoint three commissioners to legalize roads [road locations described]. Alexander Campbell, highway commissioner of Milton twp supports David H. Parks, George Lisk [?], and Darwin E. Cashman to be appointed commissioners.

51. 26 Dec. 1860. Guardianship bond. In Leelanau, Antoine Manseau as principal and John P. Miller and H. S. Buckman as sureties, all of Grand Traverse, pay $500 bond to Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate on 20 Oct. 1860. Signed by Antoine Manseau and John P. Miller, witnessed by Valentine Leu [?].

52. 27 July 1858. Appointment of appraisers. Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate, appoints Joseph W. Timlin and Peter Renna of Grand Traverse Co. to appraise estate of Antoine Manseau of Centerville twp. They are to deliver appraisal to John P Miller, administrator.

53-54. 21 December 1857. Appointment of Special Administrator. Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate, appoints John P. Miller special administrator for the estate of Antoine Manseau, who left estate in Grand Traverse Co.

55-56. 26 July 1858. Appointment of Special Administrator. Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate, appoints John P. Miller special administrator for the estate of Antoine Manseau, who left estate in Grand Traverse Co. Recorded Liber 1 p. 26 [another version of 53-54]

57-60. 25 May 1860. Account ledger. Accounts held by Cordes & Thies for "Misses Morsaw" from 28 May 1857 to 6 Jan. 1860. Purchases include corn meal, "coffy, riese," 1 days work with team, 1 gallon "winniger," 12 D[ozen?] Candles, flour, sugar, stove blacking, 5 lamp stove pipes, 6 good edging, tea, pork, etc. Total account is $262.62.

61. 14 Sept. 1858. Claim. Northport- due from estate of Antoine Mansieu to Francis Jeffreys $20.00. Signed by John P. Miller, admin.

62. 28 Sept. 1858. Claim. "Mr. Otto Theis- please pay Garland Cook sum of $15.00 for Mrs. Manseau and charge same to estate of A. Manseau". In Leland. J. P. Miller, Administrator.

63. 9 Dec. 1858. Claim. Dr. Joseph Harper or bearer claims $45.25 from estate of Antoine Magna. In Northport, John P. Miller, administrator.

64. 30 Aug. 1858. Claim. In Leland, Mr. Cordes, Theis, & Co. Pay Gerhard Cook or bearer $16.00 on account of Mrs. Manseau and charge to estate of A. Manseau. Signed by John P. Miller, adm.

65. Claim. Antony Morsow estate- due Otto Theis on settlement $29.01.

66-67. 14 Sept. 1858. Probate Court Hearing. Grand Traverse County Court (held in Leelanau), Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate. Matter of Antoine Mansau's estate- hearing of claims against estate. Claim # 1: Francis Geoffrey given $20.00 by administrator. Claim # 2: Joseph Harper receives $136.25. Claim # 3: M. H. Dexter received $147.80. Administrator given $119.87. Probate Court adjourned until 10 Oct [1858]. Recorded Liber 1 page 30.

68-69. 12 Oct. 1858. Probate Court Hearing. Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate, hears claims against estate of Antoine Manseau. Claim # 4: A. L. White (15 Sept) note for $172.20, account of $12.65. Claim # 5: W. Pickard[check] presented by Philo Beerd (1 Oct.) $55.88. Parties not appearing- court adjourned to 16 Nov. in the house of widow of the deceased of Leelanau in County. Recorded p. 30.

70. Probate Court Hearing. In relation to a settlement between the administrator and John Bryant (who owes $5.18). J. L. McVickar & Co. owes estate $3.45 (14 July 1858). J. L. McVickar & Co. owes $51.55 since the decease of Mr. Mansau as found in settlement per John Dean on 30 Jan. 1858. Kornal Jones owes estate $12.00 (note taken). A. N. Brown owes $28.69 per Antoine Mannau (note taken). Court took recess for dinner at 12 o clock. Resumed at 1 o clock. In relation of claim of $172.20 was there a demand for a payment- payment is desired. Came to $25.21 after offsets. Court adjourned at 2 PM by Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate."

71-74. 18 Nov. 1858. Probate Court Hearing. Claim #15: balance in favor of John Lake against estate $206.40. Claim #12: A. M. Micham's account with estate of Antoin Manseau. "Enoch S. Micham sworn in says we commenced logging the last of July. We got in 99 logs [illegible] the first boom off Cols [?] land was 80 logs. 60 logs in the second boom, we left them between Buckman's pines and [illegible] at harbor. Mr. Mansau took them & acknowledged it. We never got any account of those 60 logs of Mr. Mansau. There were 46 logs of Mr. Robinson's line for Mr Manseau. We were to have 20 per 1000 for the 4 first booms. My father was to have 10/1000 for the Robinson logs. There was 6 days work for Mr. Manseau loading a vefsel I worked a day loading a veful for the estate--- Mr. Mansau told my father to charge a yoke, bows, staples, ring & chain & he would pay for it. My father was to have 10 dolls for getting down the Col's logs. [signature] Enoch S. Micham.

A.E. Micham being sworn for claint testifies & says --there were 6 days work work done for Mr Mansau loading a veful--I think there were 3 days work done running Mr Dexter's logs- I am sure there was 1 days work running logs in the creek. I helped Seraphine 2 days running the Robersons logs by Mr Mansau's request. Seraphine took a boom of logs from the Roberson place. I don't know how many logs I saw some of the same boom of logs next day floating in the lake Mr. Mannau agreed to pay for the yoke, staples, & ring I think there were worth about 4 dollars. I consider it worth 1 doll a day loading the vesul I think it is worth 1 doll a day to run [?] ourselves we were with run the Roberson logs. Cross examined by counsel from estate- What are we to understand by your saying [illegible] [signed] S. E. Mickam.

John Dean having sworn for the estate testifies and says he is acquainted with the parties. Says he was aquainted with a contract between Mr Manseau & Micham. It was a verbal contract. I heard the contract made between them. Mr Mickam was to deliver the logs near the mill in the pond for 20/ per thousand. Mr Micham was to furnish logs enough to keep the mill going. I did not hear Mr Manseau agree to take logs at any other place but near the mill. Mr Micham did not furnish logs enough to keep the mill going. I was employed by Mr Micham to run 1 raft of logs down I was knowing to Mr Mansau's running rafts down. The mill was standing still 1 or 2 days, other hands were all idle. Mr Mansau went up to see what Mr Mickam was about- he found a raft of logs part way down. He brought it to the mouth of the creek & I brought it down to the mill, I did not know of either of Mr Mickam's boys helping Mr Mansau at any time to run logs down. I knew they run logs Mr. Mansau [illegible] an account of meals taken by Mr Mickans & his sons to put on book. The [illegible] Mr Mansau's books. I was his clerk. Mr Mansaus account ting produced witnefs says he kept it. It is in his hand writing. Claimant admits Mr Mansaw account- but not Mrs Manseau's account [signature] John Dean

Afterward Mrs Mansau sworn says she kept the account 1 mark is for 1 meal she made the marks the same time by [illegible] The meals were taken by claims Mr Mickam & his sons took the meals she has no knowledge that Mr Mickam paid Mr Manseau

John Lake being sworn for estate testifies & says he knows Mr Manseau & Mickam. I have sawed for Mr Mansau by the thousand I was sawing for Mr Mansau when Mr Mickam has a contract to supply the mill with logs amount of the lumber I kept the amount on a slate & hand it every night at first to Mr Mansau, then afterward to my wife. I have no learning my wife keeps my account I kept account of every men's logs.

H S Buckman sworn says he is acquainted the custom of the country about prices of meals. I should think and a running account 18 cents would be a proper price for meals Mrs Mansau out [?] 74 meals +13,32=2,00 + 11,32. [signed] H S Buckman

9 O clock P M court adjourned to 8 O clock tomorrow morning Geo N. Smith Judge of Probate

Nov 19 8 o clock AM court set according to adjournment

Claim No. 12 having been submitted to the court by the parties, in review of the evidence books the court finds due the estate [$]2,58."

75-77. 16 Nov. 1858. Probate Court Hearing. At dwelling of Julia Manseau, widow of Antoine Manseau, in Leland. Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate, hears claims. J Dame received $18.75. N Pickard (No. 5) receives $35.88. Claim No. 1 Michael Land [?] paid $22.89. No. 2: L Harper withdrawn as so much of said is related to schooner Lilly $80.00. Claim # 8: new claimof J Harper $266.13. Claim # 9: Claim of Peter Gravell for $28.70 and $8.14. Claim #10: account of estate to J Harper $300.00. Claim # 11: Joseph Harper owed estate $43.72 (to next hearing). Claim of O L White against estate of A Mansau $12.65- allowed. Claim # 4 presented by O L White being a note payable to Andrew M Mickam $172.25 (adm claims note not due). Other claims by Mickam for $185.00 and $148.22 and claim presented 16 Nov. 1858 for $231.31 1/2. Claim # 13: John P Miller amount due him on account per balance of both $33.16- allowed. Claim # 14: John Dean amount due of balance of book $46.54- $8.45= $38.09. Claim #15: Claim of John Lake due balance book $121.52. Court adjourned until tomorrow 17 Nov. 1858 by Geo N Smith, Judge of Probate.

79-84. 17 Nov. 1858. Court Session. Court called to order at 8 AM. Additional action of Antoine Manseau against Joseph Harper. No.11 was withdrawn by Council for estate and settlement of said accout substituted.

Claim No. 6 . Dame against estate of Antoine Manseau settled by allowing $12.50, court agreed.

Claim No. 4 being a note of (with interest) $172.20 taken up. Council for claimant pleads the note not due because it has not been demanded. Question arising whether the estate has a right to prove that the note has been demanded and is therefore due. And further the estate has a right to file[illegible]. Court decided that the estate has such right.

Grant being sworn for the estate testifies and says that in July after the note was given Mr. Micham came to my house and asked for Mr. Manseau. I told him I did not know where he was a few minutes of time Mr. Manseau came in. Mr. Micham spoke of the note sais [sic] he wanted the money to buy his claim presents [illegible] Mr. Manseau said he expected the vessel to bring him money every day- then he said he would go to the island and try to get some up. Mr. L. Rickard so that he would not lose his [illegible]. Mr. Manseau left for the island and Mr. Micham went home. Mr . Manseau came back from the island and said he could not get any money. Mr. Rickard was gone. Mr. Micham was not home when he returned and when Micham came in Mr. Manseau told him the same. Mr. Manseau then said to Mr. Micham that he would give him an order on [illegible] and he might go to Milwaukee and get the money then take property and go to Duncan and get his land and that would be the quickest way he could get the money for him.

Mr. Micham said he would not [have] time enough to do that, he had only about a day and his time had run out. Mr. Micham then said he would take a yoke of oxen on the note and the rest in supplies if Mr. Manseau would give him a job of logging. Manseau asked Micham for the note and Micham said he left it at home. Mr. Micham left the cattle a day or two. Mr. Manseau asked Mr. Micham for the note when they made the bargain for cattle, to put them on the note. Mr. Micham said he forgot the note at home he said he would bring the note the first time he came. Mr. Manseau did not like to let him have the cattle but said if Mr. Micham would [illegible] the cattle on the note himself it would be just as well. Mr. Micham left for home, as he was leaving he said to Mr. Manseau now you consider the cattle mine Mr. Manseau said yes. C. Grant (his mark)

John Dean swears that Micham came to his house and told him he could make the old man Manseau understand better than he could and wished he would try to get him to pay the note. Dean says Mr Manseau was going to the island to get the money from Mr. Rickard and came back without it. He came a few days after and agreed to take a note of cattle and a yoke for $125.00 and he did not have the note with him. He promised to put the amount of the cattle on the back. When he came back he did not have it. Mr. Manseau said he might yet sell the note that was about two months after. Mr. Micham called John Dean for a witness that the note was paid but he would keep it to balance accounts. Mr. Manseau told him to come and settle right off. Mr. Manseau asked me if the account was ready. I told him it was whenever he should come with the note. Cross examination by council for claim- Was you present Mr. Dean when Mr. Micham and Mr. Manseau made the bargain for the cattle? Answer- I was present. When was that bargain made? Answer- It was near my house. Was you called as a witness to the bargain about the cattle? Answer- They did not call me as a witness. Where was your house then? About 4 rods from here. Who was present? Mr. Manseau, Mr. Micham, and I was someone an I do not remember who.

Court took recess till one o’clock p.m. Opened for business.

John Dean’s cross examination continued. Question- What time was this conversation about the cattle? Answer- After Mr. Manseau came back from the Island some time last July or the first of August. By council for estate- Was you clerk and bookkeeper for Mr. Manseau. Answer- Yes. [signed] John Dean.

A. M. Micham being sworn in behalf of the claimant testifies and says that the note is a note which he took of Mr. Manseau. It was in my possession from the time it was given in the year 1857 in June or July. I presented it to Mr. Manseau for the endorsement to be made [illegible] it of 60 dollars for rigging for Capt. Emery. It was a special agreement that the rigging was to be endorsed on the note. I never made a demand for the payment of the note before or since the endorsement. I never received a yoke of cattle of Mr. Manseau to be endorsed on the note. I never gave it to any other person to demand payment while I owned it. I was to pay for the yoke of cattle in logging. Cross examined by council for estate. And was the note ever presented for payment? No sir. I was to pay $125.00 for the yoke of oxen, yoke, bows, staple, ring and chains, How was you to pay for this? In logging. Did Mr Manseau ever offer to settle that yoke? Answer: No. [signed] A. M. Micham

S. E. Micham being sworn in for claimant testifies and says I was present when my father received a yoke of cattle of Mr. Manseau says to him was to pay for them in logging. Mr. Manseau said at the time that was what they were for a yoke and chain went with them. My brother then drove the cattle home. I heard nothing said at the time about a note my brother was present. I was not present when my father made the bargain with Mr. Manseau but when he took the cattle I heard Mr. Manseau state the agreement to my father was to pay $125.00 for the cattle, yoke, and chain. [signed] Sumner(?) E. Micham.

5 o’clock p.m.

Court adjourned until ½ past six o’clock in the evening.

½ past six o’clock p.m. court opens.

The pleadings of councils being finished the question submitted to the court. Whether there has been a demand made for the payment of said note. Case required time (?)

In the matter of the claims of Joseph Harper against the estate of Antione Manseau the administrator agrees to pay said Harper $100.00. Harper agrees to relinquish all claims against said estate and restore possession of the schooner Lilly as she now lies to said estate without any incumbrances resting upon her that is not upon her when delivered to him by Mr. Manseau. Court adjourned in the above settlement.

Court adjourned till tomorrow morning nine o’clock. Geo. N. Smith, Judge of Probate

85-88. 2 Aug. 1858. Appointed o make Inventory. To Joseph Timlin and Peter Roma of the twp of Centreville, Leelanaw Co.They are appointed to inventory estate of Antoine Manseau, deceased both real and personal. They swear to make a true and just appraisal. Signed, Joseph W. Timblin and Peter Roma. Sworn in front of L. D. Quackenbush, Notary Public, Grand Traverse County.

[Inventory is very long and includes]: calking nails, calking irons, monkey wrench, moulding planes, convex planes, firmer chisels, scraper, pannel plane, round files, rifle and moulds, fish seine, one set of blacksmith tools, 8 cords of wood, pair bob sleds, two large tackle blocks, 40 ft of other rope, one lot of vessel rigging sold to Captain Emery for $140 by A. Manseau in the fall of 1857, one house and 2 village lots sold to John Lake for $400, 2 village lots sold to Peter Gravel, 2 village lots reserved for Mrs. Manseau, water pail, dishes, 9 feather pillows, one rocking chair, etc. Signed Joseph W. Timblin and Peter Roma. Recorded in Liber 1, pages 13 to 15 of Probate records.

89-90. 11 Oct. 1858. Account. Antoine Manseau’s account with N. Rickard, North Manitou Island. Goods purchased 18 May 1855 through 5 Oct. 1856. Items include a window sash, paper, pants, pork, and mustard (among others). Sent to G. N. S (George Smith).

91-94. 5 May 1853. Warranty deed. Made between James Stromach and wife of New Haven, Manistee Co. to Antoine Manseau of same place. First persons for sum of $91.96 1/4 cents land in Leelanau Co which is SW 1/4, NE 1/4, and Lot 4 of Section 9 in Township 30 North, Range 12 West. Totals 73.57 acres. Signed by James and Sarih Stromach, witnessed by Andrew C. Sherwood, Justive of the Peace and Joseph Stosper(?) and Tyler Curtis. Delos S. Filer, clerk of Manistee County, certifies that William Magill, a Justice of the Peace, swears this is a true copy on 23 July 1860. Recorded 20 July 1860 at 4 p.m., Theron Bostwick Register of Deeds.

95-96. 25 May 1860. Probate Court session. Geo. N. Smith, Judge of Probate. Matter of estate of Antoine Manseau, John P. Miller is administrator and Cordes, Theis and Co. Mortgagers of said estate for $2000 dollars with interest costs amounting in all $2384.58.Recorded Liber 1, page No. 13.

97-98. 23 Aug. 1861. Receipt. Received of Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate for G. T. Co., $355.20 being the balance of money in the custody of the probate judge belonging to the estate. John T. Miller, administrator for the estate of Antoine Manseau, deceased.

99-103. 13 July 1860. Indenture. Made between Catherine Miller, wife of John T. Miller; Julia Dean, wife of John Dean; Emily Grant, wife of Cyrial Grant; Adelia M. Mosher, wife of Lewis Mosher; Philomena Paul, wife of Napolean Paul; and Joseph Manseau; all of Centreville twp in Grand Traverse Co. And heirs of Antoine Manseau of the first part and Antoine Manseau, another heir, the second part. For sum of $33.34 each pays the first for the second to abandon claims to a certain piece of land. Witnessed by (?) D. Belloy and L. D. Quackenbush, Justice of the PeaceRecorded Liber 1, page 48

104-107. 8 May 1857. Petition. Theo Woodruff, Justice of the Peace of Grand Traverse County witnesses statement by John T. Miller, one of the petitioners. Miller swears that he knew the contents of petition to be true. Petition id to Honorable T. Woodruff, Judge of Probate, G.T. Co. John T. Miller, Julia Manseau who are 14 years and upward say that Antoine Manseau of Centreville departed life on 12 April 1857 without leaving will. His estate estimated to be worth $2200 in personal and real estate. Heirs are: Julia Manseau; Antoine Manseau, Jr.; Catherine Miller; Julia Deen; Emily Grant; Odelia Manseau; Philoman Manseau; and Joseph L. Manseau. Asks that John Miller be appointed administrator. Recorded Liber 1, page 10.

109-112. 20 March 1863. Report of Administration. To Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, undersigned was appointed administrator of estate of Antoine Manseau, who died on 26 July 1858. Undersigned came into possession of land: six acres across the north end of fractional lot no. 1 of scetion 9 Town 30 north of range and 12 west . Also village lots 1 and 3 in Block 12 in village of Leland. Personal property included three scows, 8 cords of wood, 8000 feet of lumber, chest of carpenters tools, sett of blacksmith tools, and a lot of vessel rigging.

Besides three more $1,987.70(?) Abouts due the estate from (?). A mortgage was given Antoine Manseau before his decease which has been paid.

The estate was owing on said 26th date of July 1858 amounts as follows: Norman Barnes $58.61, Barbeck & White account $13.55, Fe(?) & Rose note $15.47, S.A. and W. W. McClelland note $18.72, Michael Jennel? Account $25.13, C. U. Holden account $12.30, Joseph Dame account $13.50, John Dean account $36.34, John T. Miller account $33.70, Philo Beers agent of N. Rickard account $38.88, and U.? L. White account $75.00. Total is $341.38

Amount was ordered paid by the probate court out of the $1,987.73. Costs of administration were: fees of the Probate Court $35.55, attorney es of T. J. Ramsdell $35.00, Attorney fees of C. U. Holden attending suit $3.00, Circuit Court Bostwick $3.00, appealing suit from Justice Court costs $5.00, returns on appeal $1.00, cash paid traveling expenses $18.00, and my charges allowed by heirs $150.00. Total administration expenses are $250.55.

The heirs of the estate are Antoine manseau, Catherine Miller Manseau, Julia Dean, Emily Grant, Odelia M. Mosier, Philomena Paul, and Joseph L. Manseau.

The personal property first above mentioned was equally divided among the heirs. The six acre tract as described was equally divided except for the two lots sold to John Lake.

This leaves $1,395.82 which was equally divided among the heirs. There was cash received from loose property and small items in amount due the estate of $80.00 which was also divided. There are no more demands and no more property to administer. John T. Miller asks to be discharged as administrator.

Comments: File is difficult to read. Grand Traverse Herald (27 Jan. 1860) reports: "Mra. Monseau, ae about 47 y, [died] at Leland, relict of Antoine Monseau. 6th inst." (died 6 Jan. 1860).

Probate File 12: Estate of Oliver Sheldon

Summary: Oliver P. [possibly J] Sheldon died on 15 April 1855 intestate. Father John Sheldon asks that William Sheldon (probable brother) be appointed administrator of estate. Records from 1883 in file suggest a later problem with a deed.

1. File jacket. Oliver J. Sheldon, deceased. William H. Sheldon, admin. Geo N. Smith.

2-3. 24 Sept 1859. Bond of admin. William H Sheldon, principal; Joseph Dame and George Ellison, sureties. Geo N. Smith ordered bond. Witnessed by Ursula Dame and Sibyl M Chapman of Leelanau.

4-5. 14 June 1858. Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate, has probate hearing where John Sheldon, father of Oliver P. Sheldon, petitions court to have William H. Sheldon made administrator of estate.

6-7. 23 August 1854. Oliver P. Sheldon and A. Tracy Lay appointed admin to estate of Nathaniel Worden by Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate.

8-10. 14 June 1858. Petition from John Sheldon of Richmond, Macomb Co., MI to Geo N. Smith. Oliver Sheldon died 15 April 1855 intestate. Estate is valued at $800. John Sheldon asks that William H. Sheldon be named administrator. John Sheldon appeared in court.

11. 4 Nov. 1882. Letter. R.W. Bagot of Real Estate, Loan, and Exchange Office in Elk Rapids. Letter to Hon. H.D. Campbell. Bagot asks what is being done about Matilda Smith (McNewsome)'s land as Mr. Gay says that Lowell Sours told him that something needed to be done to perfect title.

12-13. 4 Sept 1859. Special session of Probate Court. Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate. William H. Sheldon wishes to sell real estate. No debts owed by estate of Oliver P. Sheldon. John Sheldon is heir of Oliver Sheldon. Smith requires William Sheldon to get a bond of $800 with two sureties (see 2-3).

14. 24 Sept 1859. William Sheldon swears to sell property for best interest of those involved.

15-16. 24 Sept. 1859. Geo. N. Smith notes that estate of Oliver Sheldon has heir John Sheldon. William Sheldon's petition to sell land worth $500 is noted in Probate Records p. 38.

17. 9 Oct. 1883. L. R. Smith of Elk Rapids asks H. D. Campbell to look title of land up.

18-19. 14 June 1858. Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate, asks that John Sheldon and William Sheldon appear in court regarding Oliver O. Sheldon's estate. Back of document has note "Page 21" and names Joseph W Timlin, Peter Buna[?], and L D Quackenbush

20. 3 Sept 1883 H.D. Campbell notes that their is a defective deed from Hartwall Bates to L R Smith. William Sheldon had been granted deed in 1859 and there was no record of sale.

Probate File 13: Estate of Antone Ka-Bee-Na

Summary: Antone Ka-Bee-Na died 6 July 1858 in Bear River, Emmet County. He left 1/2 interest in land to family members.

1. File Jacket. John Willard Stearns, deceased. Hannah L. Stearns [unreadable section, both names were crossed out, below is:] Maderemis [Madame?] Ka-Bee-Na, Antone Ka-Bee-Na. Geo N. Smith, Judge of Probate.

2. 7 July 1858. Petition. Bear River, Emmett County. 40 acres of land were owned by -------[unreadable] and Anthoin Kabeena. He died 6 July 1858 in Bear River. He granted share of land to Joseph Ma=dwes of Bear River. Signed by: Joseph Ma=dwes, Mary Ann Kabeena, Sophia Madwes, May [or Mary] Ann Wazigo, and Elizabeth [no surname given]. Catherine Kabeena, wife of Anthwin Kabeena. Witnessed by [unreadable marks]. Andrew Porter, Judge of Probate for Emmet County.

3. 14 July 1858. Last will and testament of Anthwin Kabeena. Will was by son Antwine Kabeena, son of Sophia Kabeena. Geo N. Smith listed as Judge of Probate.

Comments: Confusing set of documents. No Last and Testament present. Name of deceased varies greatly, probably was Antone Ka-Bee-Na. Probably a Native American family involved.

 Probate File 14

Missing when files were microfilmed.

Probate File 15: Estate of William McGinneas

Summary: William McGinneas died 23 February 1857 in Peninsula twp., Grand Traverse Co., MI. Widow Jane McGinneas petitioned court for 1/3 of the state .

1. File Jacket. William McGinnis, deceased. Oscar A. Sterns, Administrator.

2. Envelope. "File Papers in Estate of Wm McGinneas"

3-4. 3 April 1861. Order revoking letter of administration. William McGinneas, deceased. Petition by widow Jane McGinneas asking that she be made administrator. Oscar A. Stearns had previously been named administrator, now this is revoked.

5-6. 6 Jan 1862. Petition. Jane McGinneas, sworn in, states that William McGinneas died 23 Feb 1857 in Peninsula twp, Grand Traverse Co., MI. Asks for 1/3 estate per dower rights and that three people be appointed to divide estate. Petition sealed by C.M. Marsh, Notary Public..

7-8. 6 Jan 1862 (Monday). Order petition be heard. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, orders that Jane McGinneas's petition be heard.

9-10. 13 June 1862. Hearing. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, says that Jane McGinneas is entitled to 1/3 Wm McGinneas's estate. Appoints Reuben Goodrich, Elvin L. Sprague, and Albert M Bacon to divide estate. They swear that they would do so 26 June 1862 in front of Morgan Bates, Justice of the Peace.

11. 13 June 1862. Published probate notice. Morgan Bates swears that he published the probate notice in the Grand Traverse Herald before Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Notice stated that Jane McGinneas was petitioning for dower.

12-15. 13 June 1862. Commissioner's Warrant and Report of Dower. Reuben Goodrich, Albert W Bacon, and Elvin L. Sprague examined Wm McGinneas's estate and appraise it at $525. Location of land is described. Jane McGinneas's dower is adjusted. Curtis Fowler is Judge of Probate and C.M. Marsh is Notary Public.

16. Hearing ordered. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, orders hearing for Jane McGinneas to claim dower from Wm McGinneas's estate.

Probate File 16: Estate of Daniel Gore

Summary: Daniel C. Gore died and Reuanna Gore declared administrator.

1. File Jacket. Estate of Daniel C. Gore.

2-3. 4 Dec. 1872. Letters of Administration. Mecosta County, Daniel C. Gore, deceased. Judge of Probate George W. Crawford appoints Reuanna Gore administrator.

Probate File 17: Insanity of Mitchell Poterine and William Lilbert

Summary: Two insanity files are mixed together. First case [pages 1-27] relates to Mitchell Poterine [or Potevine], who lived in Fife Lake before being sent to the Grand Rapids Soldier's Home. While there, he became violently insane, was taken to the Kent Co. Jail, and was then transferred to the Kalamazoo Asylum. Kent County tried to get Grand Traverse County to accept responsibility for Potevine. Potevine died before he could be brought to the Northern Asylum in Traverse City.

The second case [pages 28-36] is similar. William Lilbert, an insane pauper, was taken by the Kalkaska County sheriff to Acme, East Bay twp., Grand Traverse County. Neither Kalkaska or Grand Traverse County wished to claim Lilbert as a citizen.

1. File jacket. Josephine -------- to Josephine Sh---k [crossed out]. Michael Polleran insanity 1886.

2. Letter?. Kent County Probate Court notes that Mitchell Potevine was sent from Fife Lake to the Grand Rapids Soldier's Home since 10 May 1886. On 20 Sept 1886, Potevine became violently insane and was placed in the [Kent] County Jail. He was transferred to the Michigan Asylum for the Insane in Kalamazoo on 25 Sept 1886. On 16 Oct 1886 and order was issued by the court in Kent County stating that Potevine was a legal resident of Grand Traverse County prior to living in the Soldier's Home.

3. Application for Admission. Henry D. Campbell, Judge of Probate, says that Mitchell Potevine [Poterine?] has no estate, was in the army in New York, and is to be admitted to the Northern Asylum.

4-5. Order of Hearing. Henry D. Campbell, Judge of Probate, in the matter of Mitchell Potevine. Kent County Superintendent says Potevine is a Grand Traverse County resident.

6. Bill. Grand Rapids & Indiana Railroad Telegraph Department. H.D. Campbell, Judge of Probate in [Traverse] City charged 30 cents [for a telegram].

7. 28 M-- [1887?]. Telegram. H.D. Campbell, Judge of Probate, "Mitchell Paterin d. yest. telegraph Dr. Pitturen[?] what deposition you desire." L.D. Follett.

8. 7 Dec. 1886. Note. Accepts that Mitchell Potervine should be sent to the Grand Traverse Asylum.

9. 16 Nov. 1886. Letter. [Stationary heading reads:] The Superintendent of the Poor for Kent County. W.L. Coffinberry, Reuben H. Smith, Asa W. Meech superintendent. Superintendents note that Mitchell Poterine was a Grand Traverse resident before living at the Grand Rapids Soldier's Home. Polerine is indigent and insane. Hearing will be brought to Robert M. Montgomery if Grand Traverse County doesn't assume cost and repay.

10. 23 Nov. 1886. Letter. [Stationary heading reads:] Grand Rapids Soldier's Home Board of Managers, Gov. R.A. Alger, Hon. M. Brown, Col. A.T. Bliss, Col. Samuel Wells, Col. Chas. Y. Osburn, Gen. Byron R. Pierce, R.A. Remick, Office of manager Col. Samuel Wells. Mitchell Poterin was sept 20 April 1886 from Fife Lake to Grand Rapids.

11. 20 Nov. 1886. Letter. [Stationary reads:] Lyman D. Follett, Judge of Probate Kent County. Frank W. Hine register. To H.D. Campbell- Mitchell Poterine was a resident of Grand Traverse County. Sent $3.00 for exemplification [copying costs apparently].

12. 9 Dec. 1886. Letter. B.C. Bonnell of Fife Lake says that Mitchell Poterine lived in Fife Lake for two years before going to Grand Rapids.

13-14. 15 Dec. 1886. Letter [pages reversed]. To H.D. Campbell, Superintendent of the Poor says that Poterine should go to the Northern District. Lyman D. Follett, Judge of Probate in Kent County, asks for a bill of charges from the Kalamazoo asylum.

15-16. 11 Oct. 1886. Petition Indigent or Insane Person. To Kent County Probate Court. Samuel Wells says that Mitchell Poterin is insane and should be sent from the Soldier's Home. Notarized by Alfred Walcott.

17-18. 13 Oct. 1886. Citation. Samuel Wells has filed a petition and Mitchell Poterin is ordered to appear in court on 16 Oct. 1886. William Edwards [signs?]. Notarized by James Woodbridge.

19-20. 16 Oct. 1886. Probate Court Hearing. Lyman D. Follett, Judge of Probate hears testimony where R. Humphrey Stevens, MD, finds Mitchell Poterine insane.

21. 16 Oct. 1886. Probate Court Hearing. Lyman D. Follett, Judge of Probate, hears testimony where Joseph B. Griswold, MD, examined Mitchell Poterine on 18 Aug. 1886 and found him insane.

22-23. Affadavit. Harry H. Ines, prosecuting Attorney and Superintendent, notes that Samuel Wells testified about Poterine in front of Lyman D. Follett, Judge of Probate.

24-25. 16 Oct. 1886. Order for Admission. Lyman D. Follett, Judge of Probate, orders Mitchell Poterine to be sent to the asylum based on the testimony of R. Humphrey Stevens and Joseph B. Griswold. Harry H. Ines, Superintendent of the 4th Ward [?]

26. 6 Nov. 1886. Letter. Probate Judge Lyman D. Follett writes that Mitchell Poterine is a resident of Grand Traverse County, not Kent County.

27. 30 Nov. 1886. Exemplification of Record. Frank W. Hine, register of Probate, sent a copy of proceedings and findings to Grand Traverse County.

28. 9 Nov. 1886. Letter. Matter of William Lilbert, a pauper insane brought to East Bay twp., Grand Traverse County from Kalkaska County on 6 Nov. 1886 and left. Not a legal resident of Grand Traverse County according to Henry D. Campbell, Judge of Probate.

29. 2 Dec. 1886. Letter. To Superintendent of Poor Kalkaska County- told to pay for Lilbert or matter will be brought before Hon. J. G. Ramsdell, Judge of Circuit Court. A. Young, G.H. Monroe, H.D. Campbell, superintendents of poor for Grand Traverse County.

30. 13 Dec. 1886. Letter. Wm. Perkins and Ellis, Attorneys and Solicitors, Kalkaska. To H.D. Campbell, Superintendent of the Poor: Lilbert is not a resident of Kalkaska County. Had relatives in Acme, sheriff took him there.

31-32. 27 Dec. 1886. Letter. Wm. Richardson, R.H. Russell, and Henry M. Crane, Superintendents of the Poor for Kalkaska County, state that Lilbert was not a resident of Kalkaska County.

33-34. 7 Jan. 1887. Circuit Court Subpoena. James A. Lunney ordered to appear at the Grand Traverse Circuit Court in case between Grand Traverse and Kalkaska Counties by order of Jonathan Ramsdell, Circuit Court Judge. James M. Flagg, Circuit Court clerk. Lunney given $5.00 for expenses. Subpoena served by Sheriff R.H. Russell.

35-36. 7 Jan. 1887. Circuit Court Subpoena. Myron Morrell subpoenaed to appear in the Grand Traverse Circuit Court for Lilbert case. Given $5.00 for expenses, served by Sheriff R.H. Russell.

Probate File 18: Estate of Joseph Case

Summary: Joseph K. Case apparently died in 1869. Elisha P. Ladd and Susan B. Case were appointed administrators.

1. File jacket. Joseph K. Case, deceased. Elisha P. Ladd and Sarah B. Case, executors.

2-3. 6 Sept. 1869. Executors or Administrator's Bond. Joseph K. Case, deceased. Sarah B. Case and Elisha P. Ladd appointed principals and William A. Marshall, surety by Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Action witnessed by Mary W. Ladd and Rosella M. Ladd.

4. Notice of Publication. T.T. Bates, Notary Public, notes that Probate Order appeared in the Grand Traverse Herald July 29 through Aug 19, 1869. Mr. Bates, Jr. was the foreman of the paper at that time.

5. 2 Aug 1869. Letter. E[lisha] Ladd wrote Judge Fowler letter that stated that enclosed was the will and petition of Mrs. Case [will not in file].

6. 20 Aug 1869. Note. J. K. Case estate is to be appraised by Wm. H. Franklin and Wm. A. Marshall.

7. 20 Aug. 1869. Testimony. Hattie E. Huntington of Benzonia testified that she witnessed the will [of Joseph Case] along with Mr. Ladd.

Probate File 19: Estate of Edwin Bennett

Summary: Edwin A. Bennett died in 1874, leaving a will. His executor, Lovell H. Gage, had to sell land from the estate to cover debts. Inventories list personal possessions and property.

1. File Jacket. Edwin A. Bennett, deceased. Lovel H. Gage, executor. Probate Calendar 67, Ledger page 35.

2-5. 6 Nov. 1876. Petition for license to sell real estate. Lovell H. Gage, as executor of the estate of Edwin A. Bennett, asks Chas T. Scofield, Judge of Probate, to allow Gage to sell real estate to raise money. Estate is valued at $111.64 and debts owed were $221.00 with administrative costs of $40.00. Heirs are Mary E. Bennett, Ezra A. Bennett, Jerome Bennett, and Walter Bennett (residence unknown) and George Bennett of Traverse City.

6. 6 Oct. 1876. Probate Order. Jos. Pohoval [?], foreman of the Grand Traverse Herald testified that the probate order for Edwin A. Bennett's estate ran in the newspaper for four weeks from 14 Sept. to 5 Oct. 1876. Charles T. Scofield was Judge of Probate and Lovell H. Gage was executor. Statement witnessed by Thos. T. Bates, Notary Public.

7-8. 6 Nov. 1876. Administrator's License to sell Real Estate. Charles T. Scofield, Judge of Probate, authorizes Lovell H. Gage to sell real estate in Long Lake belonging to Edwin A. Bennett's estate to raise money to pay $221. 65 debt.

9-11. 6 Nov. 1876. Oath Before Sale of Real Estate. Lovell H. Gage appears before Charles T. Scofield, Judge of Probate, and swears to sell Edwin A. Bennett's real estate to pay debts. Gage presents a $100 bond. Witnessed by W.W. Bartlett.

12-15. 14 Jan. 1878. Report of Sale of Real Estate. Lovell H. Gage testifies that he sold real estate in Long Lake belonging to Edwin A. Bennett's estate for $50 to Jonathan P. Ramsdell of Traverse City. An advertisement ran in the Grand Traverse Herald in Jan. 1878 and a notice was placed on the front door of Linch's Hall in Traverse City. Gage swears this to be true in front of Charles T. Scofield, Judge of Probate.

16-17. 14 Jan. 1878. Confirmation of Sale. Charles T. Scofield notes that Lovell H. Gage was granted a license to sell real estate in Edwin A. Bennett's estate. Property was sold to Jonathan P. Ramsdell.

18-21. 4 Aug. 1874. Appraiser's Warrant. Charles T. Scofield, Judge of Probate, asks H. E. Steward and John S. Beadle to appraise Edwin A. Bennett's estate and report findings to Lovell H. Gage. Witnessed by L. H. Gage, Notary Public. Inventory indicates Bennett's estate included a land mortgage to L. F. Gurns [?], an old horse, a spring calf, a harness, a saw, scythes, 2/3 interest in a threshing machine, among other items. Accounts [money owed?] were to Leelanau Iron Co. (good) $63.64, Ezra A. Bennett (poor) $100.00, Walter H. Bennett (desperate) $50.00, Lewis Ray (poor) $8.00, and Henry Hinkson (poor) $3.00.

22-23. Order Approving Report of Commissioners of Claims. Commissioners Henry E. Steward and John T. Beadle make report on Edwin A. Bennett's estate. Orders executor to pay claims. Charles Scofield, Judge of Probate signs.

24-26. 8 Aug. 1873. Will. Last Will and Testament of Edwin A. Bennett. Requests that 1). executor pays all debts and liabilities, 2). all personal estate goes to wife Mary and at her death all to benefit youngest sons Walter H., Jerome A., and George A., 3). Land deeded to son Ezra A. Bennett represents his portion of the estate., and 4). nominates Lovell H. Gage executor. Will witnessed by John Cook of Traverse City and Horace Carpenter of Ann Arbor. Recorded Vol. A on page 115.

27. 7 May 1874. Probate Order. D.C. Leach testifies that the probate order for Edwin A. Bennett appeared in the Grand Traverse Herald from 6 April to 7 May 1874. Charles T. Scofield listed as Judge of Probate in advertisement. Witnessed by L. H. Gage, Notary Public.

28-29. 4 May 1874. Proof of Probate of Will. John A. Cook of Traverse City testifies that he witnessed Edwin A. Bennett's will. Bennett had been a resident of Long Lake for four years prior to his death. Cook witnessed will with Horace Carpenter. Sworn in front of Charles T. Scofield. [An error lists John A. Bennett as a witness- should be John A. Cook].

30-31. 4 May 1874. Executor's Bond. Lovell H. Gage as executor with Malcolm Winnie as surety. Charles T. Scofield, Judge of Probate, accepts a $1500 bond.

32. 6 Apr. 1875. Commissioner's Warrant and Report. John T. Beadle and Henry E. Stewart appointed commissioner's for Edwin A. Bennett's estate by Charles T. Scofield, Judge of Probate. L. H. Gage, Notary Public, as witness to document.

33-34. 2 Aug. 1875. Commissioner's Report. Commissioner report at office of L. H. Gage in Traverse City. Advertisement appeared in Grand Traverse Herald for four weeks. Class second: L. H. Gage, Ashton & Kneeland, B. D. Ashton, H. E. Steward and J. T. Beadle, appraisers. Class Fourth: Ezra Harger, assignees of Morgan & Stiles (note) and Ezra Bennett.

35-36. 4 Apr. 1874. Inventory Household. Edwin A. Bennett's estate included one old cook stove, stove pipe, three bed quilts, crockery, a rocking chair, table, one small stand, cupboard, two bed steads. L. H. Gage listed as executor.

37-38. 4 Apr. 1874. Inventory of goods and chattels. Edwin A. Bennett's estate included land, two cows, one yearling heifer, one spring calf, one old horse, a wagon, a whiffletree, a double harness, a drag, one [illegible], harness, saw, two scythes, and a pail kettle. Accounts to Leland Iron Co., Ezra A. Bennett, Walter H. Bennett, Lewis Ray, and Henry Hinkson. L. H. Gage listed as executor.

39. Envelope. Henry D. Campbell notes that sale of real estate on 12 Jan. 1878 from Edwin A. Bennett's estate is not valid. "See report."

Comment: Edwin A Bennett was born on 28 July 1810 in New York. He was married to Mary prior to 1847/1848. Mary was born in New York in 1826/1827. The Bennetts moved to Wisconsin around 1847 and remained there until about 1859. The family owned property worth $3000 and personal possessions worth $500 in 1870. Edwin died on 15 March 1873 in Long Lake. The couple had the following children: 1). Ezra Bennett was born in 1847/1848 in Wisconsin. Ezra was married on 11 October 1875 in Traverse (City?) to Nancy A Thayer. Nancy was born in Illinois in 1848 and was living in Peninsula township at the time of the wedding, which was conducted by Lewis S Crain, Justice of the Peace and witnessed by Elizabeth and Mary Crain. 2). Jerome Bennett was born in 1854/1855 in Wisconsin. 3). George Bennett was born in 1858/1859 in Wisconsin.

Probate File 20: Guardianship of Joseph Masseau

Summary: Antoine Masseau appointed guardian of Joseph L Masseau.

1. File Jacket. Joseph L. Masseau, minor. Antoine Masseau, guardian. Geo N. Smith [Judge of Probate]. Probate Calendar 43.

2.    Note: "No files." Records may be in Probate File 11.

Probate File 21: Estate of John Garland

Summary: John Garland died , leaving a will. File contains will and many documents relating to debts Garland owed at death.

1. File Jacket. John Garland, deceased. E. P. Ladd, administrator. Probate Calendar 45, Ledger p. 21.

2. Envelope. Receipts for claims on John Garland's estate.

3. 4 Nov. 1867. Receipt. Traverse City- received from George Garland by Elisha P. Ladd, executor of the estate of John Garland, $50 to pay debts of estate.

4-5. 5 June 1865. Claim. Amount due on good wheat flour for fall of 1860, $3.50 [penciled in] June 5, 1865 [illegible] 2 months interest. [signature] Jean Gauthier. John Gauthier appeared 14 January 1863 and swore that the account was just and made between him and Garland before his death. Witnessed by Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

6-8. 9 Sept. 1867. Receipt. Creditors have received sums from Elisha P. Ladd, administrator of John Garland's estate. Creditors listed: H.R. Schetterley, D C Goodale, A S Wadsworth, J. K. Gunton, James K Gunton, Petty & Shurtleff, John Gauthier, Thomas Green, David S. Curtis, John Adsit, Curtis Fowler, H R Haight, Charles Davidson by J G Ramsdell, H R Haight (commissioner and appraiser).

9. Bill. John Garland purchased from Charles Davidson in 1860 dolls [may be dollars abbreviated], cigars, and tumblers. Total came to $32.61. Charles Davidson swore that account was correct in front of J G Ramsdell, Notary Public.

10. 9 June 1862. John Miller says he was present when John Garland settled with John Gauthier, still owing $13.50. Garland agreed to pay in flour at Carp River in the fall of 1860.

11. 15 Nov. 1861. Bill. Elk Rapids. John Garland purchased a vest [?] from A. L. Wadsworth for $3.50. Wadsworth swore this in front of L. R. Smith on 3 February 1865. A note to C H Marsh from A L Wadsworth says to "deduct from my tavern bill" lodging .25 and meal .25.

12. 1 July 1861. Claim. To John Garland, for eight days work done in barn at ten shillings per day, total $9.00. By H. C. Baker.

13-14. 1 March 1865. Bill. Northport, Leelanau County. To Commissioners of estate, I have books and notes of the late Theron Bostwick on account against John Garland. Sept. 10, 1860 for final papers of citizenship $1.00. Attending lawsuit $2.00. Total $3.00 with no credits. E. C. Tuttle, attorney at law. Letter addressed to Mr. Haight.

15-16. 15 April 1862. Ledger. John Garland's account with Thomas Green of Peninsula. Total is $109.56 and included purchases of door lock, new front door, barrel of flour, 6 new chains, new wash tub, barrel of lime, suit of clothes delivered to him for Clemens boy, and a charge for repairing clock in Chicago. Cash was received from Jo Harper that had came from Mr. Hanna, lent him by Mr. R[?] for a house sold by him at Bowers Harbor. Also charges for a new table, a box of tools that had been opened, an oil stove, door mats, and a commission charge.

17. 4 Jan. 1861. Statement. In Whitewater twp., Josiah Curtis swears before Riel Johnson, Judge of Probate, that he was with his father, David S. Curtis, on 5 July 1859 and saw his father give John Garland $50 against Oesalas Evens [? may be a legal term?] and John Garland was to provide 7000 feet of wood fit for a house and barn. Josiah Curtis helped raft a part of the wood (4000 feet) of third quality. Josiah Curtis swore this in front of Riel Johnson, Judge of Probate.

18. 4 Jan. 1861. Whitewater. Enoch Wood swears before Riel Johnson, Judge of Probate, that he helped raft lumber of John Garland's that was sold to David S. Curtis on 5 July 1859. Enoch Wood "staid on it over knight." They started building a house on the 7th [July 1859) and Enoch Wood measured the lumber and found that it was 3826 feet of third quality.

19. 21 Jan. 1862. Bill. For drafting will of John Garland, deceased, $3.00. Owed to Curtis Fowler.

20. 11 Feb. 1865. Letter. To H R Haight of Detroit. Sent small bill- for Garland's underage son after seeing advertisement in Grand Traverse Herald. D C Goodale.

21-22. 10 May 1862. Claim. 14 Jan. 1862- professional attendance one day and night $3.00. Submitted by Henry R Schetterly, M.D., who swore it was true in front of Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

23. 15 April 1868. Receipt. Traverse City, Curtis Fowler gave $21.03 to Thos A Hitchcock for D C Goodale.

24. 1 June 1868. Receipt. Morgan Bates received $13.30 from C Fowler for three ads for the estate of John Garland.

25. 8 Oct. 1858. Bill. [Letterhead] Chicago, Bought of Smith McClevey Dealership Wines and Liquors, Cordials, imported and domestic cigars Old Double Rectified Whiskey, No. 130 South Water Street. Bill for 20 gallons wine, two barrels of whiskey, one barrel of rye. Garland owed $21.50, according to Chas Davidson. Note indicates claim was disallowed.

26. 11 Feb. 1865. Claim. D C Goodale of Detroit charges John Garland's estate for medical services during last illness ($3.50) and for medical services for his son William John Garland the same winter ($12.00). Note indicates D C Goodale received $18.45.

27. Bill. John Adsit charges estate of John Garland $1.50 for witnessing last will and testament in probate court.

28. 16 May 1867. Letter. Sent to Curtis Fowler, David S Curtis will sue if claim is not paid by Mrs. Garland. George Rilly[?] will sue, C H Marsh, attorney, signed letter.

29. 18 Nov. 1861. Elk Rapids, John Garland agrees to pay nine dollars in ten days to H S A Wells or bearer.

30. 25 Sept. 1860. Bill. John L Shurtleff at Mackinaw asks Mr. Marsh to collect for bill from Mr. Garland. Bill dates to 18 June 1857 and includes 75 empty bottles, six half boxes of sardines, three whole boxes of sardines with note to deduct whiskey. Total came to $8.58.

31. 4 Sept. 1862. Receipt. Morgan Bates, County Treasurer, received $28.65 from John Garland's estate from Curtis Fowler, executor.

32-33. 13 May 1862. Letters Testamentary. Estate of John Garland. C H Holden, acting Judge of Probate, will read and approved, Curtis Fowler to administer estate.

34-35. 13 May 1862. Probate Notice. Morgan Bates publishes probate notice in Grand Traverse Herald. John Garland had a will dated 22 January 1862 that was opened on 3 March 1862 with Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

36-37. 3 May 1864. Probate Order. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, matter of John Garland's estate- will had to be reapproved. Court session postponed until 11 June 1864 because Fowler had to attend the United States court in Grand Rapids.

38-39. 13 May 1862. Administrator's Bond. Curtis Fowler Sr. and Curtis Fowler Jr. buy bond of $6000 to C H Holden, acting Judge of Probate. Curtis Fowler Sr. is executor for John Garland's estate.

40-41. 2 Dec. 1867. Public Notice. Curtis Fowler Jr. and T D Hillary, Commissioners of Highways of Peninsula twp, will take bids to build highway between land owned by T D Hillary and John Dohn (between sections 27 and 28) on 11 December 1867 [appears that Curtis Fowler used this paper as scrap paper). Reverse: J Sanders allowed $45.00, Geo Sanders allowed $50.00, Petty and Shurtleff allowed $10.74 from John Garland's estate.

42-44. 9 Sept. 1867. Receipt. H R Shetterly $4.20, D C Goodale $21.03, A S Wadsworth $14.88, J K Gunton $7.31, Petty & Shurtleff $19.87, Thomas Green $21.51, David S Curtis $25.83, John Adsit $3.87, H R Haight $125.11, Chas Davidson $22.92, H R Haight Commissioner and Appraiser $2.00, Martin Winne Commissioner and Appraiser $2.00 from John Garland's estate by Curtis Fowler.

45. 5 June 1865. Appraisal. Estate of John Garland of Peninsula. Inventory of household goods $118.00 assigned to Mary Garland, widow. All further personal estate $490.

46-48. 26 May 1862. Inventory. Peninsula twp. Inventory of Estate- property, house, barn, and woodlands. Items include three teams horses, one pair working cattle, one two-year-old steer, two cows, six swine, two calves, one sheep, one farm wagon, biggie, harrow teeth, 60 gallon kettle, one mackinaw boat, log chain, 18 acres and 9 acres oats in the ground. Household property includes three stoves, 12 old chairs, two tables, four bedsteads, four feather beds, two cupboards, two stands, one bureau, three mirrors. Appraisal given to Curtis Fowler and Donald McDonald, executors to Charles H Holden, acting Judge of Probate.

49. 9 Sept. 1867. Receipt. Creditors acknowledge that they have received money from Elisha P Ladd. H R Scheterley. D C Goodale, A S Wadsworth, J H Gunton, Petty & Shurtleff, John Gauthier, Thomas Green, David S Curtis, John Adsit, Curtis Fowler, H R Haight, Charles Davidson, H R Haight Commissioner and Appraiser, Martin Winne Commissioner and Appraiser.

50. 5 June 1865. Appraisal. H R Haight and Martin Winne appraise household of John Garland at $120.

51-52. 27 May 1862. Inventory and Appraisal. John Garland's estate appraised. Elisha P Ladd, administrator.

53-56. Appointment of appraiser. Charles H Holden, acting Judge of Probate. Estate of John Garland- Elisha P Ladd and John McMullen asked to appraise estate. Elisha P Ladd and John McMullen swear in front of Curtis Fowler, Justice of the Peace.

57. Appraiser's Warrant. Hilen R Haight and Martin Winne to appraise John Garland's estate as asked by Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

58-60. 5 June 1865. Inventory. Hilen R Haight and Martin Winne appraised John Garland's estate. Values reported to Elisha P Ladd, administrator.

61-63. 1862. Administrator's bond. Curtis Fowler, Sr. and Curtis Fowler, Jr. pay bond to Charles H Holden, acting Judge of Probate.

64. 17 June 1862. Inventory. [Last page of earlier document, possibly 53-56] Signed by E P Ladd and John McMullen, appraiser.

65. Appointment of appraisers. E P Ladd and John McMullen appraisers of John Garland's estate.

66-68. Commissioner's Warrant and Report. List of claimants and nature of claim. H R Scheterley. D C Goodale, A S Wadsworth, Jas H Gunton, Petty & Shurtleff, John Gunton, Thomas Green, David S Curtis, John Adsit, Curtis Fowler, H R Haight, Charles Davidson, Theron Bostwick, Smith McClevey, H C Baker (labor), H R Haight Commissioner and Appraiser, Martin Winne Commissioner and Appraiser. Mrs. Mary Garland and E P Ladd objected to some claims. H R Haight and Martin Winne signed as commissioners.

69-70. 5 Dec. 1864. Letters of Administration. Elisha P Ladd's estate to be administered by Elisha P Ladd by Curtis Fowler.

71-72. 5 Dec. 1864. Executor's Bond. John Garland's estate- Elisha P Ladd, George Killmer, and Curtis Fowler, Jr. pay $5000 bond to Curtis Fowler, Sr. Witnessed by Winson Golden and Mary W Ladd.

73-74. 13 May 1862. Affidavit. Gotlib Brekel witnessed will of John Garland. Statement sworn in front of C H Holden, Notary Public.

75-78. 21 Jan. 1862. Will. Last Will and Testament of John Garland: 1). Immortal being to Him and body to discretion of family- pay debts from estate. 2). give wife Mary household property and land. 3). second provision made in lieu of dower. 4). son James to receive land and James is to pay $200 to son Richard at age 21. 5). son William John to receive $5.00. 6). sons Charles and George to receiver land at age 21. 7). sons Samuel and Thomas Henry land at age 21. 8). Appoints Curtis Fowler and Donald McDonald executors.

79-80. 3 March 1862. Letter. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, incapacitated and adjourns court to 13 May 1862.

81-82. 1 Aug. 1864. Certificate of Probate of Will. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, holds session where John Adsit, John McAnnly, and Gottlieb Breckel testified that they witnessed John Garland's will.

83-84. 1 Aug. 1864. Proof of Probate of Will. John Garland died 15 Feb. 1862 in Peninsula twp. John Adsit, John McAnnly, and Gotlib Brekel witnessed will. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

85-86. 13 May 1862. Proof of Probate of Will. Gotlib Brekel swears he witnessed John Garland's will. He had known Garland, who died on 14 Feb. 1862, for two years. C H Marsh, Judge of Probate.

87-88. 1 Aug. 1864. Certificate of Probate of Will. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, notes that John Adsit, Gotlib Brekel, and John McAnny witnessed will of John Garland. Elisha P Ladd named executor.

89. File Jacket. Will of John Garland of Peninsula deposited with Judge of Probate on 21 January 1862 by John Garland. C Fowler, Judge of Probate.

Comments: Grand Traverse Herald (21 Feb. 1862) reports "John Garland, in his 43rd year, [died] at Mapleton, an old and well known settler of Grand Traverse County. Friday last [14 Feb. 1862].

Probate File 30: Estate of Mary Charboneau

Summary: Mary Charboneau of Peninsula died on 20 Aug. 1862. She left her estate to her three grandsons living in Dubuque, Iowa.

1. File Jacket. Mary Charboneau, deceased. Lanson N. Beers, exec. Closed 1881. Probate Calender 46, ledge page 13.

2-3 21 Oct. 1862. Probate Notice. Morgan Bates, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears that an advertisement was placed in the paper from 10 Oct. to 21 Oct. 1862. Witnessed by C. H. Marsh, Notary Public. Ad declared that Mary Charboneau was deceased and that Lanson N. Beers had presented Last Will and Testament to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

4-5. 9 April 1862. [misplaced document, see File 9] Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, hears testimony of John B Bourasau, who states that he witnessed will at Coutrie's house on 18 Sept. 1859. Bourasau was Peter Coutrie's son-in-law and had known him for seven years. Other witnesses were John Hulffinsch[?] and Nicholas Johnson. Peter Coutrie signed will with a mark in John Bourasau's presence.

6. 22 Nov. 1864. Letter. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, sent letter with a certified copy of guardianship letters signed by the county Judge of Dubuque, Iowa for Mary A Reid. She is guardian of Albert Reid and Charles A Reid, infant heirs at law of Mary Charboneau, late of G.T. Co. Mary Reid's other son, James Reid, drowned last spring. A receipt from Mary A Reid for $187.90 is enclosed and she asks that it be given to Lanson N. Beers. The letter was written by Charles J. Rogers, attorney for the guardian.

7. 30 Aug. 1862. Petition. Lanson N. Beers petitions Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, and asks that the will of Mary Charboneau of Peninsula, who died 20 Aug. 1862, be probated.

8-9. 24 Aug. 1863. Receipt. The Grand Traverse Co. Treasurer, Morgan Bates, received $2.17 from L N Beers, administrator of Mary Charboneau's estate.

10-11. 3 Nov. 1862. Executor's Bond. Lanson N. Beers and Albert Norris pay Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, $400 bond to administer Mary Charboneau's estate. Witnessed by C U Marsh and M J Hawkesworth.

12-13. 3 Nov. 1862. Proof of Probate of Will. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, officiates at a hearing where Mary J Hawksworth of Traverse twp says that she knew Mary Charboneau for four months in Peninsula. On 21 May 1863 she witnessed will with Eunice Beers and John B Bourasaw.

14-16. 21 May 1862. Last Will and Testatment, Certificate of Probate of Will. Mary Charboneau of Peninsula gives estate to Lawson N Beers to pay debts and equally divide between three grandsons; Albert Reid, Charles Reid, and James Reid. Will witnessed by John B Bourasaw, Eunice Beers, and Mrs. Mary J Hawksworth, all of Peninsula. Recorded Liber 1, page 75.

17-18. 1 Oct. 1862. Lanson N Beers testified that Mary Charboneau died on 20 Aug. 1862 leaving will. He asked that will be probated and swears statement in front of Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. This is recorded in Liber 1, page 71.

19. 22 Nov. 1864. Receipt. Mary A Reid received $187.90 from the estate of Mary Charboneau from Lanson A Beers. She is guardian of Albert Reid and Charles Reid.

20-21. 15 March 1884. Letter. Lanson N. Beers as executor makes report on the estate of Mary Charboneau. The inventory totals $217.00. Proceeds realized from said inventory $242.90. Charge estate for expenses- $55.00. Leaves $187.90. Gives a receipt and asks to be discharged from executorship. Testimony sworn in front of H D Campbell.

22-23. 15 March 1881. Discharge of Administration. Henry Campbell, Judge of Probate, discharges Lanson N. Beers from executorship of Mary Charboneau's estate.

24-27. 15 Jan. 1863. Appraiser's Warrant. Elisha P Ladd and William R Stone tell Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, that Mary Charboneau's estate included money at hand ($43.50), one note in hand against Lewis Miller ($40.00) plus .77 cents interest, one note against Gilbert Lacker for $5.00, and household furnishings and clothing and etc. valued at $117.55. Grand total was $217.23

Probate Files 31 to 40 are missing

[Probate Calender indicates that Probate File 40 was a name change of Sarah M. Alden to Sarah Marie Chandler. It was recorded in folio calender 46]

Probate File 41: Guardianship of Charles Middlebrook

Summary: Charles Middlebrook was born circa 1868-1869, son of John Middlebrook. Charles's parents died before he was six and his relatives, Lanson N and Eunice Beers, sought guardianship.

1. File Jacket. Charles L Middlebrook, minor. Lanson N Beers, guardian. Probate Calendar 48.

2. 17 Oct. 1864. Appointment of Guardian. Lanson N Beers asks Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, that Beers be appointed guardian of Charles L Middlebrook. Beers is ordered to execute a bond of $600, make an inventory of Middlebrook's estate, and pay one percent of the estate to the Grand Traverse County treasury.

3-4. 6 Feb. 1865. Guardian's bond. Lanson N and Eunice Beers pay $600 to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, as a bond. Charles L. Middlebrook is six years old, son of John N Middlebrook, deceased. Bond was witnessed by John B Bourasaw and Louisa P[?] Fowler. Recorded Liber 1 p. 127.

5-6. 10 Oct. 1864. Petition for appointment of guardian. Lanson N Beers of Peninsula had custody of Charles L Middlebrook, a six-year-old child. After death of mother, the father placed child with petitioner and wife, relatives of the child. Father subsequently died leaving an estate of about $300. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, asked to appoint Beers guardian.

7. Envelope. Lanson Beers guardian for Charles L Middlebrook.

Comment: Grand Traverse Herald (28 Aug. 1863) reports: "John Middlebrook, ae 27y, [died] on the Propeller Alleghany, returning from a trip to Chicago. His wife died a year ago, He was a brother-in-law of Rev. J. C. McAllister, Saturday last (XX Aug. 1863). The 1870 census finds Lanson (aged 64 years, b. in CT), wife Eunice (aged 62 years, b. CT), and adopted son Charles (aged 11, b. in IN) living in Peninsula twp.

Probate File 43: Estate of George Lesley

Summary: George Lesley died during the Civil War, leaving behind a will that gave property to his brothers and sisters.

1. File Jacket. George Lesly, deceased. Robert M Lesly, executor. Probate Calendar 51, p. 24.

2. 1 Dec. 1863. Envelope. Addressed to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, Mapleton. Last Will and Testament of George Lesley, not to be opened but in case of my death. Witnessed by Chas H. Marsh.

3-6. 2 Oct. 1865. Appraiser's Warrant. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, directs DeWit C Leach and Charles H Marsh to appraise George Lesley's estate and report to executor Robert Lesley. They swear before Morgan Bates, Notary Public, on 26 November 1865 and include appraisal of George Lesley's land.

7. 31 August 1865. Hearing. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, notes that George Lesley prepared a will on 1 Dec. 1863. The Adjutant General for the State of Michigan states that George Lesley died on or about 21 Sept. 1864 while in military service. The will was opened and ordered to probate.

8. Repeat of 1.

9. Repeat of 2.

10. Repeat of 7.

11-14. Repeat of 3-5.

15. Map. Two sketches showing locations of George Lesley's property. Names heirs in case: Ann Brockway, Jane Peterson, Robt M Lesley, Betsey Chisolm, Mary Eliza Richard, and Susan M Lesley.

16. Statement. Charles H Marsh appears in court in Traverse City and says that he resides in Traverse City and was acquainted with George Lesley in his lifetime. George Lesley resided in Traverse township and died on or about 21 Sept. 1864.

17-18. 7 Aug. 1865. Letter. Traverse City, C H Marsh asks John Robinson, Adjutant General in Detroit, for information on George Lesley of Company M 5th MI Cavalry who is supposed to have died in Shenandoah Valley sometime in September 1864. Relations are taking steps to administer estate and if he is not dead we wish to know it to stop proceedings, if he is dead, friends want some proof of the fact. Reverse (dated 17 August 1865) George Lesley died 21 Sept. 1865. [illegible signature F M?]

19. 27 August 1865. Note. C U Marsh writes to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, that letter from Adjutant General is enclosed.

20-21. 23 Nov. 1863. Last Will and Testament. George Lesley of Traverse asks that debts be paid and bequeaths to father Abner Lesley his personal estate for use to support him if necessary. If not necessary, then give brother Clarence Avery Lesly a good common school education. Sell land to do this if necessary. One piece of land to sister Mary Eliza Lesley. Land for brother Clarence not to be sold until he is 21. If they die, then land left to sister Ann and if more than $500, divide equally among all brothers and sisters. Appoints brother Robert Lesley executor. Signed 23 Nov. 1863 and witnessed by Charles H Marsh of Traverse City, A O Norris of Cinterville [Centerville?], and Edwin R Rogers of Grand Traverse County.

22-23. 2 Oct. 1865. Certificate of Probate of Will. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, has session where Charles H Marsh swears he witnessed George Lesley's will with A Norris and Edwin R Rogers. Robert Lesley posts a $2000 bond as executor.

24-25. 2 Oct. 1865. Executors bond. Estate of George Lesley, Robert Lesley, Jesse Crain, and Ann Brockway pay $2000 bond to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. C H Marsh witnessed bond.

26. 2 Oct. 1865. Letters Testamentary. To Robert Lesley: George Lesley's will approved.

27-28. 3 Dec. 1903. Certificate and Request to Probate Judge. To John A Loranger, Judge of Probate, matter of George Lesley's estate. We the undersigned: Abner Lesley, deceased; Clarence Avery Lesley, deceased; Mary Eliza Lesley and Ann Lesley, sisters; heirs of George Lesley ask that Robert Lesley as executor make a final account without notifying them. Signed by Robert M Lesley, Ann Brockway, and Mary Eliza Lesley Richard.

29-30. 3 Feb. 1903. Discharge of Administrator. John A Loranger, Judge of Probate, discharges Robert Lesley. Liber 4, p. 325.

31-32. 3 Feb. 1903. Certificate of Enrollment. In case of George Lesley, deceased. John A Loranger, Judge of Probate, "the papers were annexed by me attached for the purposes of enrollment."

33-34. 2 Oct. 1865. Proof of Probate of Will. In front of Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, Charles H Marsh of Traverse City swears that he was acquainted with George Lesley for at least four years. George Lesley died in Winchester, Virginia on 21 Sept. 1863. Marsh witnessed with along with A Norris and Edwin R Rogers.

35-36. 30 Sept. 1865. Probate Notice. Morgan Bates, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears that he ran a public notice in the paper from 8 to 29 Sept. 1865. Witnessed by Charles H Marsh, Notary Public. Probate Notice states that Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, planned to hold hearing on 2 October 1865 to prove George Lesley's will. Recorded Liber 1, p. 186.

Comment: Grand Traverse Herald (4 Nov. 1864) reports: "George Leslie injured by a horse. He had entered the service last winter." (died 22 Sep. 1864). (on 2 Sept. 1864) Herald reports: "Clarance Leslie, in his 15th year, at Thomas Brockway's in Melville, son of Abner and Naomi Leslie" (died 13 Aug. 1864).

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Probate File 44: Estate of Charles Robertson

Summary: Charles Robertson died on 14 April 1864 in Washington, D.C. while in military service. His will names his friend George Loucks as sole heir. Unnamed relatives of Robertson may have lived in Vincent, New York.

1. File Jacket. Charles Robertson, deceased. George Loucks, executor. Probate Calender 54.

2-3. 16 March 1867. Letter. [Letterhead] Office of Francis N. Fitch Counsellor at Law, Lake Vincent, NY. Charles Robertson, deceased, purchased government land totaling 160 acres lying near Grand Traverse Bay. Samuel Crawford now occupies and controls the land. Fitch had been hired by heirs to investigate whether any property belongs to them. He asks if the court would represent him or give the name of "some honest & capable atty." Asks that nothing be said to Crawford about matter. Letter was written by Francis N. Fitch to C. Fowler

4-5. 5 Oct. 1903. Discharge of Administrator. George Loucks discharged by John A. Loranger, Judge of Probate, as administrator of Charles Robertson's estate. Recorded in Liber 4, page 319.

6-8. 3 Oct. 1903. Certificate and Request to Probate Judge by Heirs at Law. George Loucks asks John A. Loranger, Judge of Probate, to be discharged as administrator of Charles Robertson's estate. Recorded in LIber 4, page 150.

9. 2 August 1867. Receipt. Received frm Geo Loucks $4.50 for estate of Charles Robertson. Signed by Morgan Bates, County Treasurer.

10. Letter. [Difficult to read]. Mr. Crawford neither occupies or controls land. Has abandoned it [?] Heirs apparently paid back taxes. Prosecuting attorney of Grand Traverse County suggested as attorney [illegible name of attorney]. Letter apparently written to or by Francis N. Fitch [possibly by Curtis Fowler].

11-12. 8 July 1864. Affidavit. John James McCallum swears that Charles Robertson died of intermittent fever in the Lower [?] United States Hospital on 14 April 1864 in Washington, D.C. Sworn in Washington, D.C. in front of John S. Hollingfield, Notary Public.

13-14. 8 April 1867. Letter. Mapleton, Grand Traverse Co., copy of letter to F N Fitch. Chas Robertson bequested real estate to George Loucks "a particular friend of his Mr. Robertson, with whom he formerly boarded." Land consists of 90 acres. Will not proven yet due to difficulty of asking witnesses, but expects will to be proved soon.

15-16. 23 May 1867. Citation. In matter of Charles Robertson's estate, William R. Stone of Michigan named as a witness and asked to testify on 17 June 1867 in front of Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

17-18. 11 May 1867. Petition for Probate of Will and Appointment of Administrator. George Loucks petitions Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, and says that Charles Robertson of Traverse City died in Washington, D.C. during military service on 14 April 1864 leaving a will and an estate valued at $500 with George Loucks sole legatee.

19-20. 24 June 1867. Proof of Probate of Will. William R. Stone of Northport, Leelanau County testifies to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, that he witnessed last will and testament of Charles Robertson and was acquainted with John Garland [crossed out] Charles Robertson of Traverse City for at least three years. Charles Robertson died on 14 April 1864 in Washington, D.C. William R. Stone witnessed will on 24 Oct. 1861 in Traverse twp. in presence of Theron Bostwick. Stone swears this in front of Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Recorded Liber 1, page 270.

21-22. 24 June 1867. Certificate of Probate of Will. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, notes that in the estate of Charles Robertson that George Loucks had petitioned for probate and that William R. Stone swore that Stone and Theron Bostwick of Traverse City had witnessed will. Recorded Liber 1, page 271.

23-24. 16 May 1867. Morgan Bates, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, swears that he ran Probate Order from 24 May to 17 June 1867. Witnessed by T T Bates, Notary Public. Probate Order notes that Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, was working on estate of Charles Robertson, deceased, and that George Loucks was administrator. Recorded Liber 1, page 270.

25-26. 24 Oct. 1861. Last Will and Testament. Charles Robertson leaves to George Loucks all land and personal property. Witnessed by Theron Bostwick of Traverse City and Wm R Stone of Peninsula. Recorded Liber 1, page 273.

27-28. 1 July 1867. Executor's bond. In matter of Charles Robertson's estate, George Loucks and William A. Chandler of Grand Traverse County, pay $700 to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, . Witnessed by Wm Holdsworth and C A Crawford.

29-30. 5 July 1867. Bond. George Loucks and William A. Chandler of Grand Traverse Co., are obliged to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, for $100. Loucks is executor of Charles Robertson's estate. Witnessed by W Holdsworth and C A Crawford.

31-32. 24 June 1867. Certificate of Probate of Will. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, notes that in the estate of Charles Robertson, George Loucks was named executor. William R. Stone saw Robertson make will and witnessed it with Theron Bostwick. Execution of will is committed with a bond of $800 ordered. Recorded Liber 1, page 271.

33-37. 1 July 1867. Appraiser's Warrant. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, orders that George W Bryant and Morris Mahan be appointed appraisers of Charles Robertson's estate. They are to report to executor George Loucks. They swear in front of W H C Mitchell, Justice of the Peace. Land and house appraised at $450 on 23 July 1867. Appraisal verified on 29 July 1867 by George Loucks.

Probate File 45: Estate of Samuel Hollingsworth

Summary: Samuel Hollingsworth died on 12 December 1862 in Traverse City, leaving a widow Hannah D. Hollingsworth and four probable children, John Hollingsworth, Edwin Hollingsworth, Thomas Hollingsworth, and Hannah Hollingsworth. A relative in the 1960s noted that Samuel Hollingsworth first wife was named Ellen and that children included John Hollingsworth, Edward Hollingsworth, Daniel Hollingsworth, James Hollingsworth, Eliza McAvoy, Ellen Neil, Esse Birtch, and others unnamed daughters.

1. File Jacket. Saml Hollingsworth, deceased. John Hollingsworth, Adm. Probate Calender 51, Ledger 22.

2-3. 16 March 1972. Letter. Henry Hollingsworth of Inglewood. California requested a copy of the Probate File of Samuel Hollingsworth. Letter answered in May 1972 by D Kutral, Register [of Probate].

4-5. 1 June 1866. Petition for Appointment of Administrator. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, asked by Perry Hannah of Grand Traverse County, to appoint John Hollingsworth administrator of the estate of Samuel Hollingsworth, who died on 12 December 1862 in Traverse City intestate. Had an estate valued at $800. Heirs listed as John Hollingsworth, Edward Hollingsworth, Thomas Hollingsworth, Hannah Hollingsworth, and Perry Hannah. Witnessed by E Cromwell M[illegible] of Leelanau Co., Notary Public. Recorded Liber 1 page 179.

6-9. 7 July 1866. Appraiser's Warrant. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints Perry Hannah and Thomas Cutler to appraise Samuel Hollingsworth's estate. They are to report to John Hollingsworth, administrator. On 30 August 1866 Perry Hannah swears to Jesse Crain, Notary Public, that he had appraised land. Inventory completed on 31 July 1866. John Hollingsworth swears to Jesse Crain, Notary Public, on 31 July 1866 that inventory in correct. Inventory lists 1 double wagon, 1 pair bob sleighs, 2 sets double harnesses, 1 cream colored mare with colt, 2 bay horses, 1 stable, 1 note against Wm Ambuster, and 1 note against James K Gunton. Total is $963.00. Recorded in Liber 1, page 172.

10-11. 7 July 1866. Probate Order. Morgan Bates, publisher Grand Traverse Herald ran probate order from 14 June to 6 July 1866. Jesse Crain witnessed statement. Probate order notes that Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, was ordering probate of estate of Samuel Hollingsworth with John Hollingsworth administrator. Recorded Liber 1, page 181.

12-13. 8 June 1963. Letter. Henry Hollingsworth of Inglewood, California writing to ask whether Grand Traverse County had will of Samuel Hollingsworth. Samuel Hollingsworth had two marriages, first with was named Ellen. Children were sons John Hollingsworth, Edward Hollingsworth, Daniel Hollingsworth, and James Hollingsworth. Daughters were Eliza McAvoy, Ellen Neil, Esse Birtch, and others unnamed. Return letter sent by Dorothy Kutral, Register of Probate.

14-15. 12 December 1867 [?]. Inventory. Estate of Samuel Hollingsworth with Hannah Lay & Co. Expenses were Goods, Road Tax, and Taxes for 1860 [or 1866?] totalling $206.96. Estate valued at 992.33.

16-17. 7 July 1866. Administrator's Bond. Estate of Samuel Hollingsworth, John Hollingsworth and Perry Hannah pay $700 to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Recorded Liber 1, page 169.

18. 3 June 1867. Petition. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, petitioned by John Hollingsworth about estate of Samuel Hollingsworth. A hearing about widow Hannah D. Hollingsworth set for 17 June 1867.

19. Sept. 1867. Receipt. Hannah D. Hollingsworth, widow of Samuel Hollingsworth, received $121.17 as 1/4 of the estate.

20. 1866. Receipt. Received of John Hollingsworth, administrator of estate of Samuel Hollingsworth, $200 assigned as widow's allowance.

21-22. 1867. Receipt. Hannah D. Hollingsworth, widow of Samuel Hollingsworth, received $200 as widow's allowance.

23. 4 May 1867. Receipt. Received from John Hollingsworth $9.63 for costs of estate of Samuel Hollingsworth. Morgan Bates, Treasurer.

24. Note. [Apparently written by Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate] "Holdsworth matter of wife, Rec'd of Mrs. H for her share"

25. Notes. [Apparently written by Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate] Sam'l Hollingsworth estate, value of estate $963.00, charges $478.30, claims allowed $381.67. John Hollingsworth's claim reduced by arrangement with widow.

26. Envelope. John Hollingsworth, guardian for Edwin, Thomas, and Hannah Hollingsworth.

Probate File 50: Estate of R. Farwell Campbell

Summary:

1. File Jacket. R Farwell Campbell, deceased. Ellen H. Campbell, adm. Probate Calender 49, page 17.

2. 1 May 1865. Appointment of appraiser. Estate of R. Farwell Campbell, deceased, of Grand Traverse County. Ellen H. Campbell is administrator. Two people to be appointed appraisers of estate. Appraisers are Thomas A. Hitchcock and [blank] Clyde of Traverse twp.

3. Note. "Mrs. Campbell selects the horse 100, cow 40, double wagon 50, 2 sheep 10 [total] $200."

4. 6 Feb. 1865. Order. Ellen H. Campbell, administrator of the estate of R. Farwell Campbell, is ordered to dispose of the estate by one year from 6 Feb. 1865 by the [unnamed] Judge of Probate.

5-8. 1 May 1865. Appraiser's warrant. Estate of R. Farwell Campbell, deceased. Thomas Clyde and Thomas A. Hitchcock appointed appraisers by Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Ordered to report appraisal to Ellen H. Campbell. Witnessed by Jesse Crain, Notary Public. Appraisal conducted on 13 June 1865. Ellen H. Campbell swore that the appraisal was correct in front of Thos H. Clyde, Justice of the Peace. Inventory lists land described as being next to Grand Traverse Bay, east of Joseph Moody [?], south of Chas Robinson, and west of Thos A Hitchcock. Also household goods, horse, double wagon, swarm of bees, etc. Total value is $397.87.

9-10. 6 Feb. 1865. Letters of Administration. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints Ellen H. Campbell to administer estate of R. Farwell Campbell. Recorded Liber 1 page 137 and 138.

11-12. 2 Jan. 1865. Petition for Appointment of Administrator. Ellen H Campbell, widow of R. Farwell Campbell, asks Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, to be appointed administrator. R. Farwell Campbell died on 25 March 1864 without a will. He was a resident of Traverse town and had an estate of around $300. Children are Darwin [illegible initial] A and Clare, residents of Traverse town. Other heirs are R. A. Campbell, Sr., of Potsdam, St. Lawrence County, NY; R.A. Campbell, Jr., of St. Johns, MI; H.D. Campbell of Traverse; and three unknown creditors. Document was witnessed by E.L. Sprague and H.D. Campbell and sworn in front of Elvin L. Sprague, Notary Public. Recorded in Liber 1, page 133.

13-14. 7 Feb. 1865. Probate Order, Morgan Bates, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, ran ad for three weeks from 13 January to 4 February 1865. Statement witnessed by R. Goodruf[?], Notary Public. Ad stated that Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, had named Ellen H. Campbell administrator for estate of R. Farwell Campbell. Recorded Liber 1 page 135.

15-16. 6 Feb. 1865. Administrator's Bond. For estate of R. Farwell Campbell. Ellen Campbell as principal and Henry D. Campbell and H. A. Campbell [as sureties]. Gave $600 bond to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Witnessed by C.M. Marsh. Recorded in Liber 1 pages 136 and 137.

Probate File 51: Estate of Leonard Jones

Summary: Leonard S. Jones died intestate on 1 May 1865 in Traverse [twp.?]. Perry Hannah asks court to appoint Jesse Crain administrator.

1. File Jacket. Leonard S. Jones, deceased. Jesse Crain, adm. Adm died- 1884 JAL. Probate Calender 49.

2-5. 1 Oct. 1865. Petition. Jesse Crain petitions probate court about estate of Leonard S. Jones. No personal estate and no debts except burial costs $25.11. No heirs, estate to go to state. Jesse Crain asks to sell land worth $500 to pay for burial and administrative costs. Swears statement is true in front of Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

6. 5 Dec. 1865. Probate Order. Morgan Bates, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald swears that Probate Order was published from 12 Oct. to 9 Nov. 1865 in front of Jesse Crain, Notary Public. Probate Order notes that Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, was selling real estate of Leonard S. Jones, deceased, with Jesse Crain administrating.

7-8. 20 Sept. 1865. Probate Order. Morgan Bates, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald swears that Probate Order was published from 11 Aug. to 1 Sept. 1865 in front of Jesse Crain, County Clerk. On 29 July 1865 Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, hears petition of Perry Hannah to settle estate of Leonard Jones and appoint administrator.

9. Notes. [handwritten by Curtis Fowler] Leonard Jones estate, hearing set for 6 Sept. 1865, petition of Perry Hannah unprepared so hearing rescheduled until 6 Nov. 1865. J C [Jesse Crain] appointed administrator- executor bond. [another column begins] Elijah Mills estate [see Probate File 52].

10. 4 Feb. 1866. Oath Before Sale of Real Estate. Jesse Crain, administrator, will sell Leonard S Jones land before 3 Dec. 1866. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, witnesses statement.

11-14. 4 Dec. 1865. Appraiser's Warrant. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints Thomas A. Hitchcock and William Holdsworth to appraise land and report results to Jesse Crain. administrator. Witnessed by Jess Crain, Notary Public. Land appraised on 5 Feb. 1866 and the 80 acres is valued at $500.

15-16. 1 Oct. 1866. Probate Order. Jesse Crain asks Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, for permission to sell real estate from Leonard S. Jones estate.

17-18. 6 Nov. 1865. Administrator's Bond. Jesse Crain as principal and Reuben Goodrich and Thos A. Hitchcock are sureties for estate of Leonard S. Jones. They pay $1000 bond to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Walter C. Bacon witnesses document. Recorded Liber 1, page 161.

19-20. 15 July 1865. Petition for appointment of administrator. Perry Hannah asks Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, and says that Leonard S. Jones died 1 May 1865 in Traverse, intestate. Jones owned real estate valued at $200 and left no known heirs. Perry Hannah asks that Jesse Crain or some other suitable person be appointed administrator. Sworn in front of L W Hubbell, Notary Public. Recorded Liber 1, page 159.

Probate File 52: Estate of Elijah Mills

Summary: Elijah Mills died in August or September 1865. His wife appears to have died previously. He left three children: John Mills, Elijah Mills, and Susan Mills. Jesse Crain was appointed estate administrator and guardian of the Mills children. One document (25-28) is apparently from their guardianship file, which is now lost.

1. File jacket. Elijah Mills, deceased. Jesse Crain, adm. Probate Calender 50, page 26.

2-3. 6 Nov. 1865. Petition. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, is asked to dispose of estate as most of it is perishable and the rest is small. Recorded Liber 1, page 205.

4-5. 6 Nov. 1865. Administrator's Bond. For estate of Elijah Mills, Jesse Crain is principal and Reuben Goodrich and Thos A. Hitchcock as sureties. They pay Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, $1500 bond. Witnessed by Walter C. Bacon. Recorded Liber 1, page 203.

6. Note. [Curtis Fowler's handwriting] "See Mr. Crain got date when the Mills effects were sold."

7. 7 May 1866. Note. [Claims allowed] J. Moody account $59.03, William A. Chandler $3.00, R. Mullen $8.00, B.D. Ashton (doc's bill) $5.00, Gilbert Ainslie $20.00.

8. 20 Nov. 1865. Claim. Traverse- Elijah Mills [illegible] to R. Mullen. Making one coffin for wife $5.00, 4 days harvesting wheat at 1 1/2 $3.00. [total] $8.00. Robert Mullen.

9. 15 April 1866. Claim. For Elijah Mills, 1865. Dr. B. D. Ashton- 31 July Visit and Med $4.00, 2 Aug. Med $1.00, 3 Aug. Visit and Med $3.00, 5 Aug Visit and Med $2.50. [Total} $10.50. Sworn in front of Jesse Crain, Notary Public.

10. 1 July 1865. Claim. Elijah Mills estate. William A. Chandler "to 1 wks for Mrs. Chandler taking care of Mrs. Mills $3.00" Wm A. Chandler, sworn in front on Jesse Crain, Notary Public.

11. 15 Aug. 1865. Claim. Estate of E Mills to Gilbert Ainslee. For keeping Mills during his sicl.0ness $20.00. Sworn 31 Aug. 1866.

12. 1 March 1866. Claim. Joseph Moody's ledger "13 March 1864 due on settlement on logging job at Reuben Goodrich $22.64, 5 Dec. 1864 59 lbs beef, 1 Jan 1865 2 bags, 10 Jan. 1865 cash, 15 June 1865 1 cap and boonet for children, 20 June 1865 1/4 bus[hel] Hungarian grafs seeds, 27 June 1865 paying for S S Advocate, 1 Aug. 1865 cutting and binding wheat, 2 Aug. 1865. 1/2 day with team, 3 Aug. 1865 moving Mills to Ainslie's, 10 Aug. 1865 1 day with team, 23 Aug. 1865 1 day cutting and drawing oats, 19 Sept. 1865 4 days cutting corn. Credit by chickens $1.88." Total comes to $59.03. Sworn in front of Jesse Crain, Notary Public.

13-16. 14 July 1880. Final account of administration. For estate of Elijah Mills, Jesse Crain, administrator, tells C J Scofield, Judge of Probate, that nothing is left of estate. Inventory of estate lists plow, sap pan, pair [sleigh] bobs, 2 kettles, 24 chickens, 3 chairs, 68 bushels potatoes, 100 bushels ear corn, 36 20/60 wheat, 7 bushels oats. Total comes to $133.79 and claims equal $133.79. Three claims [?], Jas Moody, W.A. Chandler, R. Mullen, Dr. Ashton, Gilbert Ainslie.

17-18. 4 Sept. 1865. Petition for appointment of administrator. Joseph Moody of Grand Traverse petitions Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, for appointment of administrator for Elijah Mills's estate. Mills died about 21 July 1865 at Traverse twp with an estate valued at $200. Heirs are John S. Mills, Elijah Mills, and Susan Mills. Moody asks that Jesse Crain be appointed administrator. Moody swears this on 4 Sept. 1865, recorded Liber 1, page 167.

19-20. 3 Nov. 1865. Probate Order. Morgan Bates, publisher of the Grand Traverse Herald, published Probate Order 13 Oct. to 3 Nov. 1865. Swears this in front of Jesse Crain, Notary Public. Probate Order notes that Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, was settling estate of Elijah Mills and that Joseph Moody prays that Jesse Crain appointed administrator.

21-24. 4 Dec. 1865. Appraiser's Warrant. Curtis Fowler appoints Thomas Hitchcock and Gilbert Ainslie appraisers for Elijah Mills's estate. They are to report findings to Jesse Crain, administrator. Thomas Hitchcock and Gilbert Ainslie swear they will do so on 1 Jan 1866 in front of Jesse Crain, Notary Public. Inventory is dated 5 Feb. 1866. Inventory lists 160 acres land valued at $500 and household goods including 2 blankets, 1 shovel, bird and cage, bedstead, 1 chain [other items listed above in documents 13-16]. Recorded in Liber 1, page 206.

25-28. 6 Jan. 1868. Appraiser's Warrant. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints Thomas Hitchcock, William Holdsworth, and John Black to appraise estate of Elijah Mills, John Mills, and Susan Mills and report findings to Jesse Crain, guardian of the three. Thomas Hitchcock, William Holdsworth, and John Black swear in front of Jesse Crain, Notary Public. Inventory completed on 13 June 1868. Jesse Crain swears that inventory is correct 12 June 1868 in front of L W Hubbell, Notary Public. Inventory lists 160 acres of land.

Probate 60: Guardianship of Robert Hopkins

Summary: Robert William Hopkins was born on 9 Feb. 1852, illegitimate son of Anna M. Clement. Robert Hopkins was appointed his guardian. Robert Williams Hopkins was married around 1868.

1. File Jacket. Robert W. Hopkins, minor. Robert Hopkins, guardian. Probate Calender 52.

2-3. 5 Feb. 1866. Guardian's Bond. In case of Robert W Hopkins, minor, Robert Hopkins and McKinley Wilson pay Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, $100 bond. Robert W. Hopkins, aged 13, illegitimate son of Anna M. Clement. Witnessed by Gavin Jacks. Recorded Liber 1, page 191.

4-5. 6 Feb. 1866. Letter of Guardianship. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints Robert Hopkins guardian of Robert W. Hopkins. Robert Hopkins asked to make an inventory.

6-7. Petition. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, asked by Anna M Clement, mother of illegitimate minor Robert William Hopkins. He was born on 9 Feb. 1852 in London, England who lives with Robert Hopkins' family in Peninsula twp. Father of minor child does not support child, not known if living, it is necessary to appoint guardian. Asks that Robert Hopkins be appointed guardian. Recorded Liber 1, page 191.

8-9. 22 October 1868. Letter. Robert Hopkins resigns guardianship of Robert W.Hopkins "who had married and left me."

Probate File 61: Guardianship of Rosella Robarge

Summary: Rosella Jane Robarge, was born circa 1848/1849, daughter of Margaret Robarge. Richard Ball was appointed her guardian. File discusses real estate dealings in Frankfort and Crystal Lake, now in Benzie County.

1. File Jacket. Rosella Jane Robarge, minor. Richard Ball, guardian of Frankfort, MI. Probate Calender 50, page 39.

2. 8 Feb. 1867. Letter. Richard Balls writes to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, and says that he received a letter from Mr. Cartright asking Ball to be in town on 13 February 1867. Ball thinks this is unnecessary as no bill of administration has been made yet.

3. Note. [notes are in Curtis Fowler's handwriting about Robarge estate]. Miscellaneous legal notes.

4-5. 14 Jan. 1867. Petition. Richard Ball of Frankfort writes court and says that he has an agreement to trade land belonging to Rosella Jane Robarge, minor, with village lots owned by George M Cartright.

6. Note. [Curtis Fowler's handwriting] "contract approved will be necessaru for you to appear at Traverse City."

7. 12 Sept. 1866. Note. "Mr. Fowler- enclosed are papers. G D Pearsons of Frankfort."

8-9. Petition. [handwritten notes, drafts] Estate of Rosella Jane Robarge, minor, seesion of 6 Aug. 1866 with Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. 8 Sept. 1866, Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, nominates Richard Ball guardian of Rosella Jane Robarge. Bond set at $300. Application of Margaret Robarge, mother of Rosella Jane Robarge, to [illegible] minor- that Wm H. Coggshall, Alvin S. Dow, and Amos Hollywood be appointed appraisers of estate. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints them.

10-11. 8 Sept. 1866. Guardian's Bond. Richard Ball, Gabreal D. Pearsons, and Wm Coggshall pay $300 to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, for bond for guardianship of Rosella Jane Robarge. Witnessed by I. J. Carver, Chas C. Adams, and William Robarge.

12-13. 5 Jan. 1867. Letter. To Curtis Fowler of Mapleton, Judge of Probate, Judge Ramsdell is ill and there is a problem defining boundaries. Retain Mr. Ball as guardian. Letter is from George M. Cartright.

14. 12 Nov. 1866. Letter. To Curtis Fowler of Mapleton, Judge of Probate, guardian papers of Rosella Jane Robarge sent, appoint Mr. Ball as her guardian. Mr. Ball said he had not received the appointment. From G. D. Pearson of Frankfort.

15. 17 May 1867. Letter. To Judge Fowler of Mapleton, Geo. M. Cartwright hasn't had anything, will be in Traverse City in June, in matter of Rosella Jane Robarge, minor, Judge Ramsdell had some papers. From George Cartwright.

16-17. 8 Sept. 1866. Nomination of Guardian. Margaret Robarge asks Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, for a guardian for Rosella Jane Robarge of Grand Traverse. Rosella Jane Robarge nominates Richard Ball of Frankfort as guardian.Witnessed by Isaac Carver, Justice of the Peace. Recorded Liber 1, page 174.

18-19. 25 July 1866. Request for Appointment of Guardian. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, receives application of Margaret Robarge of Frankfort for a guardian for daughter. Asks that Richard Ball be appointed. William Coggswell and Lorenzo S. Dow all of Frankfort, Grand Traverse Co., will appraise property. Sent by Gabrial D. Pearsons.

20-21. 23 July 1866. Petition for guardian. Margaret Robarge of Frankfort says that a minor child residing in Crystal Lake twp in Grand Traverse Co., Rosella Jane Robarge is age 17. She has an estate valued at $125. Witnessed by Isaac J. Carver, Justice of the Peace. Recorded Liber 1, page 173.

22-25. 8 Sept. 1866. Appraiser's Warrant. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, in case of minor Rosella Jane Robarge, appoints William A. Coggswell, Lorenzo S. Dow, and Amos M. Hollywood appraisers. They are to give appraisal to Richard Ball. Land in Crystal Lake was appraised at $200. Recorded Liber 1, page 177.

Probate Files 70 and 71 adoption files "Confidential Material." [Probate Calender index indicates Probate File 71 was for Elmore Dickensheets who became Howard Homar Fife. Recorded in Folio 58]

Probate File 72: Guardianship of Ernest Hastings

Summary: Ernest William Hastings was born around 1855, son of Silas F Hastings and Elizabeth Hastings. B died sometime prior to February 1867 and William Holdsworth was named Ernest Hastings' guardian.

1. File Jacket. Ernest William Hastings, minor. William Holdsworth, guardian. Probate Calender 53.

2-3. 7 Feb. 1867. Petition for Appointment of Guardian and Guardian's Bond. Mrs. Elizabeth Holdsworth is in charge of a minor child in Traverse City, Ernest William Hastings, aged 11. Father is dead and the child has no real or personal estate. She asks that William Holdsworth be appointed guardian. For guardian's bond, William Holdsworth is principal and Perry Hannah is surety. They pay $300 bond to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, on 13 February 1867. At the time, Ernest William Hastings was 11-years-old and was the son of Silas F. Hastings of Ingham[?] Co. Jesse Crain, Notary Public, witnessed bond.

4-6. 30 Sept. 1903. Release of Guardian. Ernest W Hastings of Traverse City petitions John A. Loranger, Judge of Probate, and acknowledges that William Holdsworth was his guardian. He releases him as guardian. John A. Loranger and Ruby Wolfel [?] witness statement.

7. Envelope. William Holdsworth guardian for Ernest William Hastings.

Probate File 73: Guardianship of Edward, Thomas, and Hannah Hollinsworth

Summary: Samuel Hollingsworth (deceased prior to July 1867) and wife Hannah Hollingsworth had three children: Edward Hollingsworth, Thomas Hollingsworth, and Hannah Hollingsworth. Samuel Hollingsworth's brother John Hollingsworth asked the court to be appointed the children's guardian.

1. File Jacket. Edwin Hollinsworth, Thomas Hollinsworth, Hannah Hollinsworth, minors. John Hollinsworth, guardian. Probate calender 84.

2-3. 13 July 1867. Petition to Appoint Guardian. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, is petitioned by John Hollingsworth of Traverse City. Hannah Hollingsworth has three minor children residing in her family: Edward Hollingsworth aged 10, Thomas Hollingsworth aged 8, and Hannah Hollingsworth aged 4. Their father is dead. Petitioner is father's brother. They have property valued at about $300. John Hollingsworth asks to be appointed their guardian. Recorded Liber 1 page 274.

4-5. 13 July 1867. Guardian's bond. John Hollingsworth and William Whiteford pay Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, $500 so that John Hollingsworth can be appointed guardian of Edward, Thomas, and Hannah Hollingsworth, children of Samuel Hollingsworth, deceased. Recorded Liber 1 page 275.

Probate File 74: Guardianship of Clifford Tompkins

Summary: Robert D. Tompkins is named guardian of his six-year-old grandson Clifford Tompkins. Clifford Tompkin's father had left the family and his mother was deceased.

1. File Jacket. Clifford Tompkins, minor. Robt D Tompkins, guardian.

2-3. 9 Nov. 1867. Petition to appoint guardian. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, is petitioned by Robert Tompkins of Grand Traverse County. Robert Tompkins has one child that resides with family, Clifford Tompkins, aged 6-years-old. Dwelle [Divelle?] Tompkins "the father of said minor long since absent ed himself from his family, and if living, his place of residence is unknown, and has ceased all aid in support of said minor, mother is deceased, petitioner is grandfather." Property owned by the child valued at $200.

4-5. 9 Nov. 1867. Letter of guardianship. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints Robert D. Tompkins to be Clifford Tompkins' guardian. Robert Tompkins is ordered to make an inventory of Clifford Tompkins' possessions. Recorded in Liber 1 page 266.

6-8. 9 Nov. 1867. Guardian's bond. Robert D. Tompkins and William Tompkins pay Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, $400 bond. Clifford Tompkins is six years old, son of Dwelle [Divelle?] Tompkins, formerly of Grand Traverse County. Witnessed by Amon [Anson?] R. Tompkins in front of Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Recorded in Liber 1 page 265.

Probate File 75: Guardianship of Charles, Samuel, Thomas, Robert, Frank, and George Garland

Summary:

1. File Jacket. Charles, Saml, Thomas H., Robert P., Frank, George Garland [minors]. Robert McLellan, guardian. Probate Calender 55, ledge page 41.

2-16. 24 Nov. 1869. Ledger account "Robert McLellan in account with the estate of Francis E., Robert P., Thomas H. and Samuel Garland minors." Account given to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, and lists purchases, work done by others, and cash advances for period from 20 July 1866 through 24 November 1869. Items listed include: cash to Mary Garland, payment to B. D. Ashton, lumber, ham, beaff, blacksmith, 1 pair boots for George Garland, 1 grain bag, taxes, 1 pole strap for harness, James Blackwell on account choping, shoemakers awls, postage stamps, bill of goods at Hannah Lay & Co., mending boots for George Garland, blacksmith for wagon box, cash paid for use of Mary McLellan, John Warren for mowing hay, sugar, cash paid William Golden for potatoes, Lancaster for making sleigh, Kinney [?] Campbell for teaming, Jerome Gregg choping wood, S. J. Master, Hugh McQuin, James Crapo, William Crapo [for] chopping wood, Gorden Gregg for work, rubarb roots, pork, Louis Clement for seed corn, 1/4 woolen yard, Arithmatic Thos Garland, 1 paper salratus, Hugh Griffith for choping, Ole Burney for chopping, also Mr. Bronson [for chopping], A Monroe, Anson Becker, Jackson Fike, Alexander Monroe [for chopping], James W Duffin teaming, Doctor Mel[illegible], Oliver Lardie for potatoes, nutmeg & allspice, James Hoskins [?] splitting rails, dung fork, Joseph Caly [?] splitting rails, Edward Carrel for seed wheat, George Wilson for work [some names are repeated in ledger, also many more food and miscellaneous purchases].

17. 16 Dec. 1869. Affadavit. Robert McLellan is guardian for Francis E. Garland, Robert P Garland, Thomas H Garland, and Samuel Garland. Balance of $550.75 is due from estate. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

18-19. 16 Nov. 1870. Affadavit. Robert McLellan is guardian for Francis E. Garland, Robert P Garland, Thomas H Garland, and Samuel Garland. Balance of $550.65 is due from estate. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

20-21. 16 Dec. 1870. Ledger Account. Robert McLellan is guardian for Francis E. Garland, Robert P Garland, Thomas H Garland, and Samuel Garland. Balance of $550.65 is due from estate. Account given to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

22-23. 4 April 1871. Affadavit. Robert McLellan is guardian for Francis E. Garland, Robert P Garland, Thomas H Garland, and Samuel Garland. He is examined and balance of $550.65 is due minors. Account given to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

24-25. 4 April 1871. Ledger Account. Account is for 16 Dec. 1870 to 4 April 1871. Robert McLellan is guardian for Francis E. Garland, Robert P Garland, Thomas H Garland, and Samuel Garland. Account lists Mr. Gorman 1 months work, Atlas for Samuel [Garland], goods at L. M. Huble & Co., shoes from Charles Harde, bottle sarsaparila, cash paid George Simpson, Balance of $550 65/100 in favor of guardian. Sent to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

26. 20 Dec. 1875. Ledger Account. Robert McLellan is guardian for Francis E. Garland, Robert P Garland, Thomas H Garland, and Samuel Garland. Balance due 20 Dec. 1875 is $107 5/100.

27. 4 April 1871. Inventory. Estate of Francis G. Garland and Robert D. Garland. 4 cows, 3 yokes steer, 1 bull, 1 heifer, 1 colt, 1 gray horse and old harness, 1 old wagon, 1 loging chain, 1 fanning mill, 1 mountain plow, 13 larger inch dog teeth, two 1-year-old steers. Submitted as last inventory by Mary McLellan [illegible]. Amount of $350.00 mentioned to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Inventory signed by Robert McLellan, guardian.

28-29. 4 April 1871. Petition. Robert McLellan submits resignation as guardian of Samuel Garland, Thomas H. Garland, Robert P. Garland, Francis E. Garland, Charles Garland, and George Garland.

30-31. 4 Sept. 1867. Petition for Appointment of Guardian. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, asked by Mary McLellan to appoint a guardian for her six minor children in Grand Traverse Co.: Samuel Garland aged 14, Thomas H. Garland aged 11, Robert P. Garland aged 9, and Francis E. Garland aged 7. Recorded in Liber 1 page 278.

32-33. 16 Dec. 1867. Guardian's Bond. Estate of Samuel Garland, Thomas Garland, Robert P. Garland, Francis Garland, Charles Garland, and George Garland. Robert McLellan is principal and John Black and Thomas Cutler are sureties. Estate is worth $1300 and their father is dead. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, is asked that Robert McLellan of Grand Traverse be named guardian and asks that Charles Garland and George Garland nominate him.$2600 bond dated 9 Oct. 1867 witnessed by E. Cromwell Tuttle and G. S. Hooper in Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate. Recorded Liber 1, page 279.

34-35. 16 Dec. 1867. Letter of Guardianship. Estate of Samuel Garland, Thomas Garland, Robert P. Garland, Francis Garland, Charles Garland, and George Garland. Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, appoints Robert McLellan guardian. He is to make an inventory before 16 Dec. 1868. Recorded Liber 1, page 255.

36. 24 Feb. 1870. Letter. To Mrs. Mary McLellan- she is authorized to pick $350 stock on premises of Robert P. Garland and Francis E. Garland by Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

37-38. 27 Jan. 1870. Inventory. Inventory of stock on the premises of Robert P. Garland and Francis E. Garland. Sent to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate, by Robert McLellan, guardian. Recorded on Liber 1, page 490. Henry D. Campbell, Judge of Probate.

39-40. 26 Dec. 1872. Receipt. Received from Mary McLellan $202 25/100 from estate of Samuel Garland, Thomas Garland, Robert Garland, and Francis Garland. Money for Grand Traverse County, given by Robert McLellan to Curtis Fowler, Judge of Probate.

41-42. 20 Jan. 1880. Receipt. Mary McLellan pays $69.55 to Robert McLellan and applied to debt on estate of Samuel Garland, Thomas Garland, Robert Garland, and Francis E. Garland.

43. 20 Dec. 1875. Receipt. Mary McLellan pays $278.85 for estate of Samuel Garland, Thomas Garland, Robert Garland, and Francis E. Garland. Paid by Robert McLellan to C. J. Scofield, Judge of Probate.

Probate File 80 Confidential Adoption