Another of the early wills from the Kentucky wilderness, still within the boundaries of the State of Virginia.  Samuel Young was sure he had not long to live in this world, and he was correct.  The will was written on the fourth day of June, 1786, and he died within two weeks.  The mention of his having medicines and money due on account wonder if he was a very early druggist – or just acting as one?  There is no mention of wife or children, so he was one of the many who lived alone in the Kentucky wilderness.

In the name of God Amen.  I, Samuel Young, now in Bourbon County and State of Virginia, being of sound memory and duly sensible, but weak and conceiving I will soon depart this life, for the settling my temporal affairs do make this my last will and testament.  First, and principally, I commend my soul to Almighty God, who is the giver, hoping through the merit of my blessed Redeemer, Jesus Christ, to obtain forgiveness of all my sins and wickednesses.

Imprimis.  I do give and bequeath unto John Dawson of Bourbon County and State of Virginia, all my property which do unto me belong on goods, medicine, or monies due me unto me on account.  Note of hand or otherwise now in the said Commonwealth of Virginia and do hereby desire that the said John Dawson will, in a decent and Christian manner, bury my body and do appoint him, the said John Dawson, Executor to this my last will and testament, revoking all others and ratifying and confirming this to be my last.  Given under my hand and sealed with my seal this fourth day of June, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty six.

Samuel Young

In presence of Benjamin Harrison, John Trimble, John Farlow

At a Court held for Bourbon County on Tuesday the 20^th June 1786

The last will and testament of Samuel Young, deceased, was proved by the oaths of Benjamin Harrison, John Trimble and John Farlow, witnesses thereto and on the motion of John Dawson, executor therein named, who acknowledged bond and made oath according to law, certificate is granted him for obtaining probate thereof in due form.

Test. John Edwards, Clerk