Genealogy Insights: Massachusetts Probate Records
Genealogical research relies heavily on the wealth of information preserved in various research collections, and in this blog series, I explore some of the most valuable resources I utilize in my research. For this post, I’m focusing on Massachusetts probate records.
Understanding Massachusetts Probate Records
Massachusetts probate records, as well as probate records in general, contain information on the property of decedents, the relationships of heirs, and the settlement of estates. The types of records that may be included in probate records include:
- Administration Papers – Administration is the authority given to the administrator to settle the estate. Also refers to the probate process for intestate estates.
- Estate Papers – The estate file contains information about the property left by the deceased to be dispersed between the surviving heirs.
- Bonds – In most probate cases, the court required the administrator, (and sometimes the executor, guardian, appraiser, and trustee) to post a bond to ensure that he would properly complete his duties. The bond required that a fee be paid to the court if duties weren’t adequately performed. One or more persons were required to co-sign the bond as “sureties.”
- Decrees – A decree is the judicial decision of the court. In probate, decrees usually involve heirship or distribution.
- Guardian Papers – A guardian is the person appointed by the court to manage the affairs of a minor or someone incapable of handling his or her own affairs. Guardianship is the court appointment of an adult to take care of the child or the child’s property.
- Letters of Administration – Letters of Administration refers to the formal document from the court granting authority to handle the affairs of the estate.
- Minutes – Minutes are the notes made of the probate court proceedings.
- Wills – a will is the document in which the testator distributes (devises) real property. The testator (male) or testatrix (female) is the person making the will or testament.
Access to Massachusetts Probate Records
The website Mass.gov has information on how to determine if historic court records are available online, and if not, how you can go about requesting probate records.
Researching Massachusetts Probate Records
A client retained me to research genealogical records for their application to a lineage society. My research led me to Massachusetts probate records, specifically those from Berkshire County. Examining early 19th-century probate records, I discovered the will of their ancestor within a particular generation. This will provided crucial evidence to connect the ancestor to their descendants, which helped in the completion of the lineage application:
- An estimated timeline for the ancestor’s death. There are normally two dates associated with wills, one is the date the will was created and the other date is when the document was presented to the court, after the individual’s death.
- Confirmation of the ancestor’s location.
- Identification of their spouse and children.
Enhancing Research Through Geographic Analysis
Probate records are typically associated with the county where a person died. Therefore, understanding the historical formation of counties within a state, including Massachusetts is crucial for successful probate record research. A great website to assist in understanding these boundary changes is Mapofus.org. This site offers a collection of county maps, which can be helpful to anyone interested in learning more about the history and geography of the area they are researching.
Need Assistance With Your Probate Research?
- Genealogy Coaching: If you’re eager to conduct your own research, I provide 1-hour coaching sessions to guide you through the process. I can help you identify relevant collections, develop effective search strategies, and navigate online resources.
- Research Services: For those who prefer to outsource their research, I offer professional genealogical research services. I can conduct in-depth research to uncover valuable information about your ancestors.
