Research

Scope and Content Note

This series consists of microfilm of two works originally compiled and edited by Ray C. Sawyer. The first (reel 1) is a two-volume typescript "Index of New York State Wills, 1662-1850, on File at the Office of the Surrogate for New York County in the Hall of Records, New York City" (1931-1932). The second (reel 2) is a three-volume typescript "Index to Wills Probated in New York County, New York, from 1851 to 1875, Inclusive," (1950-1951). Copies of both original works may be found in the New York State Library.

This microfilm series is an index to testators in State Archives series J0043-92, Record of Wills and Probates, 1665-1787, and in series 1043-92, Record of Wills and Probates, 1787-1879 (pre-1851 wills only). The index lists testators (makers of wills) in alphabetical order by surname, then by given name. The index provides name, date when will was proved, and book and page number.

Wills pre-dating mid-1787 were recorded in the office of the colonial Prerogative Court (1665-1783) or the State Court of Probates (1778-1787). Pre-1787 wills were made in all parts of the colony or state of New York. Wills post-dating mid-1787 were recorded in the office of the Surrogate's Court in New York County. Starting in 1823, the recorded wills include many wills made by out-of-state residents.