Reuben Marshall’s will is very unusual since it mentions a land warrant he received from the War of 1812, as well as his claim against the United States for the services of his father during the Revolutionary War. I don’t remember seeing war claims mentioned in a will.
Reuben was difficult to research. I did find a general index card for a Reuben Marshall that was a sergeant in the 17th Regiment of the Kentucky Militia, under Francesco. After more research I’ve found that the name ‘Francesco’ was misspelled – should be Francisco. Lieut. Colonel John Francisco’s regiment was organized February 8, 1815. Most officers’ names are listed, but ‘nine sergeants’ is written, no names given. But we know Reuben Marshall to be a member of this regiment. There were 834 officers and enlisted men.
Will of Reuben Marshall
Kenton County Will Book 1, Page 1
Whereas I, Reuben Marshall, of the City of Covington, County of Kenton and State of Kentucky, being old and feeble, but of sound mind and body, in view of the sudden approach of death, make this my last will and testament.
I give and bequeath to my aged and affectionate wife, Catharine Elizabeth, all of my personal property, such as bed and bedding and all other furniture. I likewise give to her a land warrant now in my possession for my services in the War of 1812, calling for one hundred and twenty (120) acres. Also, the unsettled claim which I have against the United States for the services of my father in the Revolutionary War, to have and to hold during her natural life, to be disposed of at her death as she may see properly. In response whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal this 6th of February one thousand eighty hundred and fifty-six.
Reuben Marshall
Signed and sealed in the presence of J. B. Laudman, John McDonald, Edwin Ogden
Commonwealth of Kentucky, Kenton County Court
April Term 12th April 1858
A writing purporting to be the last will and testament of Reuben Marshall, deceased, was approved for probate and thereupon J. B. Laudman, one of the subscribing witnesses thereto, being sworn, said that the testator signed the same in his presence and of the other subscribing witnesses, and that they signed the same as witnesses in the presence of each other and at the request of and in the presence of the testator. Whereupon the same was established and ordered to be recorded.
E. J. Bayless, Clerk
Categories: Old Wills
