If a document refers to two men as brothers is it possible that they are not full brothers? Could they be: half-brothers? step-brothers? brothers-in-law? What type of “document” makes a difference? Was it an obituary–who gets listed as a “brother” might not be a full biological sibling? Was it an inheritance document? Was it a reference a letter or a story passed down? From the standpoint of trying to determine parentage and relationships, the difference makes a difference. Sometimes things might not mean exactly what we think they mean.
If you are unable to find a probate settlement for your ancestor and you “know” he owned land, make certain you have all the deeds–did he sell his property right before his death and avoid probate? And did he really own land at all or is that just family fiction?
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