Hi there,

I have several questions that have arisen in the last several decades of 
my local history quest, but I figure I will start with the easiest.  It 
is probably one that many subscribers will know off the top of their heads.

In researching land titles at the local courthouses for the period 
1890-1920 I often find that ownership is listed solely in the name of 
the wife of a married couple.

I guess this could be interpreted as evidence of an early "woke" and 
progressive Virginia, but I suspect the reason is more prosaic.  Real 
estate taxes were levied regardless of who technically owned the 
property, but perhaps there were benefits in the event of bankruptcy?  
Or perhaps intestate death?  Did they not have joint tenancy with rights 
of survivorship?

Any thoughts on why a married couple would put their house in the name 
of the wife only in that period?

Many thanks

Leland Ness

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