The Division of the Slaves of Ephraim Frazee

 I believe that Ephraim Frazee, dying at a young age from malaria, had not written up a will, and so, it appears that when his eldest son, Joseph, turned 21, or became engaged to be married, or for similar reasons wanted to move out and start a life on his own, the county clerk was asked to evenly divide the slave property within the household among the four sons.  I suspect that his widow, Susan, was not considered to have rights of inheritance above those of her sons.  The following is a transcription of this document:

In pursuance to an order to us directed, we the undersigned proceeded to divide the slaves to us presented by Joseph Frazee guardian of the heirs of Ephraim Frazee deceased, [Joseph was Ephraim's younger brother and business partner] make the following report.

To Jos Frazee, Jr [Really, it says that, but when it comes to Ephraim, it does not say Ephraim Frazee, Jr., which it really should.] we give the negro woman Cynthia and Jackson, her child, valued at                                                                           500.00

To Ephraim G. Frazee [Middle name Samuel] we give a negro Boy Washington           

500.00

(To) Lewis Frazee we give two negro boys James and Henry                           550.00

To Wm Frazee we give Mary negro woman and her child Sarah Ann               600.00

$2150.00

Remarks. Lewis J Frazee will pay to Ephraim Frazee $12.50 and Wm Frazee will pay Ephraim Frazee $25 making his amount                                                     537.50

William Frazee will pay to Jos Frazee the sum of $37.50 making his amount   537.50

All of which is respectfully reported. Given under our hands this 12th January, 1839

Robt. P Dimmett

John W. Franklin

Mason County Sct. March Court 1839 - Division of the slaves of Ephraim Frazee deceased was returned in court and ordered to be recorded.

Attest: Marshall Ky. Clerk