We tend to think of extensive governmental paperwork as a modern phenomenon. The documents in the 1877 probate file for Jacob Grim, who died intestate (without a will), prove that in a state only 18 years old, paperwork greased the wheels of the County Court.
As part of the probate process, Jacob Grim's heirs signed a document asking that Hiram Straight be appointed Administrator.
File Folder Containing Probate Documents
Letter to Judge to Appoint an Administrator
"Damascus, Oregon, Aug. 16th, 1877
To Hon. N.W. Randall
County Judge of Clackamas Co., Oregon
We, the undersigned heirs of the estate of Jacob and Jane Grimm his wife, would most respectfully ask your honor to appoint H.A. Straight as administrator of said estate; and we, your petitioners, would as ever pray.
John B. Grimm
William Grim Annie Grim
Daniel Grim Mary E. Grim
B.F. Greenwell Jerushia Greenwell
Josiah Yong Julia X {her mark} Yong
Sophronia Grimm
John J. Pedigo
Hiram Straight Ivy Straight"
The above is a wonderful document for several reason. The most important being the signatures. Note how the family's last name is spelled both Grim and Grimm amongst the three brothers and one sister. Note also how Jerushia spells her name. Tellingly, sister Julia Young (spelled Yong in this document) is unable to write her name. Julia was born in 1843, she was three years older than Jerushia. I wonder if the family's travels precluded her attending primary school. One sister, Sarah Grim Pedigo died in 1871, so her widower signed on behalf of her children.
Clerk Filed Paperwork
"Request to appoint
H.A. Straight Admin
-----------------------------
Filed Aug 20th 1877
WHH Fouts, Clerk"
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