Will of William Draper
(1760-1818)


In the name of God, Amen, I, William Draper, Sen., of the County of Henry and State of Virginia, being at this time of sound mind and disposing memory do make and constitute this my last will and testament. I leave to my beloved wife, Frances Draper, during her natural life or widowhood four negroes: Bob, Marget, Peggy and Jane A. all my land, stock of all kind, household and kitchen furniture and plantation tools of all kind, the whole of the property leave I my wife. It is my will at my wife's death or marriage it should be sold and divided among my children or their heirs. i give and bequeath to my sons: Asa Draper, five shillings to him, his heirs forever, and all the rest of the property to be equally divided between my three sons, William Draper, John Draper, and Thomas Draper and my grandson, John Wesley Draper. Should I possess any other property hereafter, it is my will that it should be divided between my three sons and grandson after my just debts, if any, are paid. Of this my last will, lastly I do appoint and constitute my two sons William Draper and Thomas Draper, my executors to this my last will and testament. My desire is that my grandson, John Wesley Draper's part shall be kept by my Executors till he comes to the age of twenty-one and then be given to him. I do hereunto set my hand affixed my seal this 25th day of January, 1816.

Signed William Draper

Will Book 2, Page 136, Henry County, Virginia