Story: Inheritance

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.