I know that when Thomas SNOW drowned, Elizabeth took inventory and then most of the farm (except for the land) was auctioned. They had several kids, youngest two year old twins. The three men supervising provided, as had been ordered by the court, certain specified foodstuffs for a year's provisions. Elizabeth bought back quite a few of the family's possessions. I have come across other families where guardians were appointed for kids even though their mother was living. Guess women weren't considered smart enough to make decisions for their kids. Could it be that William Thompson was considered a better protector of their interests/inheritance -- some of which could be in conflict with interests of siblings? Sammie wrote: I am curious. Why was William Thompson appointed guardian of little Obed and sister Jane when there were other older male siblings nearby who should have been appointed? Wasn't Abigail (their mother) still alive?