Genealogy Chat

You're so right Janet, I have some wonderful ones and some big disappointments. I would say it is always worth getting them just to find out, though, after all they are cheap compared to a death certificate! And if you can get access to the National Probate Calendar (on microfiche at some record offices and some probate offices) you can do the search yourself so you will know whether there is a will to be found or not. Even if there wasn't a will, there will be an entry if the estate was large enough to go to administration, and you can even order a copy of the letter of administration if you want though it costs the same as a will and probably won't give you much extra info (though it just might...) Anyway, the entry will tell you if it is a will or an administration. And another thing - if you get a will with one or more codicils it can tell you a lot about how relationships between family members changed! Scottish wills can be downloaded from Scotland's People and cost £5 each, but you might find a will, an inventory and then a later supplementary inventory all for the same person at £5 each so it can add up! But again, they can be fascinating and give you a lot of info. Kate.

Adding to this so I can find it again when I have more time, Moira.