In a message dated 7/24/04 1:03:53 AM, [email protected] writes: << Joseph French died in 1752 [abt 54 yrs old]. He died intestate and the estate was administered by James Farrell, who had married Joseph's daughter Mary in 1751. Why was his son-in-law, James Farrel, the Administrator? Had all of his other sons and son-in-laws moved from the area or died? Joseph FRENCH was quite young when he died. Did he have young children still at home? Could it be his property advertised for sale in 1765? >> ________________ Joseph was about 54. He had been married 30 years. It seems likely that his children would be at most 30 years old. We know son, Joseph, was born after 1722, perhaps as late as 1727, thus he would be around 25-30. The only other birth date for another son, Aaron, is 1739, followed by two additional sons, Francis and David. Aaron was about 13 when Joseph died and the others are presumed younger. So, Joseph did have pre adult children in his household. This would suggest that James Ferrel was the trusted adult to administer Joseph's estate. Son, Joseph (Jr.) who was married in 1749 to Hannah Horn, apparently, was not present nor available for this task. Since Joseph (Jr.) was left on 5 pounds and no property that he was not considered mature enough to do the administrator's job. The sale of the property formerly that of Joseph FRENCH in 1765 could be either father or son. Since Joseph (Sr.) died in 1752, some 13 years had passed before the offer for sale which seems strange. Perhaps the administration record of Joseph's estate (if available) would reveal more. You are doing great work on this matter and I thank you. Best regards, Hugh