Estate inventories can be suggestive of a family’s general level of literacy. This 1823 estate inventory from Coshocton County, Ohio, lists several books that he owned upon his death–including a Bible, a prayer book, “Pilgrim’s Progress,” a “Pocket Book and History,” and four “small Book[s].”
It’s not conclusive proof that every member of the Rampley family was literate, but the fact the family owned book is suggestive that some family members could ready. Thomas’ widow, Christianna, purchased these books (not just the apparent family Bible) from the estate sale of her husband’s estate in the fall of 1823. Several of Christianna’s children would have been of an age to attend school in 1823 and it’s possible the small books were school primers of some sort.
Estate inventories can provide a uniquely detailed insight into our ancestors’ lives. Make certain you’ve looked at every clue they contain.
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