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by Carol Wells (Author)
Equity records are a rich source of genealogical facts. In the course of settling disputed or complicated inheritances, names of stepchildren, half siblings, maiden names, deceased husbands, first, second, third spouses, and extended family relations may all be part of testimony. Although one suit concerns a transaction made in 1736, most of these cases fall between 1790 and 1820. Many of these suits contain dozens of pieces of evidence compressed into a few paragraphs: names, dates, situation, and decree. Here we find families torn by dissention, abused wives, dishonest guardians, contentious relatives, and at least one destroyed will. Suits for separate maintenance show the deplorable situation of women when married to violent or unstable husbands. Other official records and family bibles cannot compare with the revelation of troubles and relationships found in Equity Court holdings. This volume contains a useful list of abbreviations and a full-name and place index.
