What were the general "rules" followed when appointing guardians of a decedent's minor child? The time period I am interested in is between 1745 thru 1786. I have looked at many of the Orphans Court records and it seems that often times the minor is allowed to choose their guardian, (provided the wished-for guardian agrees, I'm sure). Did the courts try to appoint a guardian who was related to the minor before they would try to appoint a non-relative? Would a non-relative have often been a friend of the family? Also, what age was the cut-off to be considered a minor. I have one request for a minor, dated 1840-1841, saying that the children are all minors and under the age of 14. Did the cut-off date vary over the years between 1745 and 1841? Any help in these matters is appreciated. Jeanne