The last will and testament of Michael Dowden of the State of Kentucky and County of Madison of Sound mind and memory.

I Michael Dowden considering the uncertainty of this mortal life do make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following

First I give and bequeath to my wife Nancy Dowden all my household and kitchen furniture her lifetime also I wish and direct that all my [estate] be hers to dispose of as She may and, also the She keep the bay colt And give it to James M. Gabard when he needs it, also I direct that Nancy Dowden my wife have and enjoy the benefit of one beast two cows and one yoke of cattle until her death.

Finally I direct all the remainder of my personal and real estate except my wife's dower to be and is hereby divided equally between my children.  Also I appoint William Johnson the Executor of this my last Will and Testament in witness whereof I have hereto set my hand and Seal the 18th day of January in the year of our Lord One thousand eighteen hundred and 1862.

his Michael X Dowden mark

The above instrument was now here subscribed by Michael Dowden of Sound mind and memory, the testor in the presence of each of us and have declared to be his last Will and Testament and witnessed by his request.

J.H. Newton Madison County Wm Johnson Madison County

State of Kentucky
Madison County Set
At a County Court held for Said County on the 3 day of March 1862 this instrument of writing was produced in open Court and proven to be the last Will and Testament of Michael Dowden dec'd by the oath of William Johnson a witness thereto and who also proved that John H. Newton the other witness attached the same in his presence and in the presence and at the request of the Said deceased

Which was ordered to be recorded as the true last will and testament of Said Michael Dowden deceased which has been done accordingly

Att. G.H. Barnum