Story: Inheritance

Last will and testament, 1864

This is the will of Wainuiomata farmer Hugh Sinclair, written in 1864. As was common well into the 20th century, Sinclair's wife, Agnes, did not inherit his major assets, but received an annuity (annual payment) of £50 (about $5,500 today), to be paid half-yearly. She also received a one-off payment of £50 and household goods. Sinclair's three children inherited the bulk of his estate.

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Archives New Zealand - Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
Reference: AAEC W3333 1

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How to cite this page:

Ann Dupuis, 'Inheritance - Inheritance matters', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/zoomify/31048/last-will-and-testament-1864 (accessed 27 April 2024)

Story by Ann Dupuis, published 5 May 2011, reviewed & revised 3 Oct 2018