I really don't think this is un-common at all.  I have dozen of wills and they never list everything because a lot of times the stuff has already been disposed of.  Back then they had numerous children and children haven't change through the many years - "Mom, we need another chair for company.  May I have one of yours?"  etc etc.  Most of the slaves were disposed of in the same manner.  Only when there was 'no will' is everything listed.
fern
www.bufordfamilies.com
  From: Madaline Preston 
  Sent: Monday, March 21, 2011 11:15 AM
  To: [log in to unmask] 
  Subject: [VA-ROOTS] 1767 will


  In a 1767 inventory of Wm. Hiatt's estate (near Middleway, VA) there are
  over 130 different items enumerated.

  While there are 7 horses on the list there is no mention of any type of
  wagon.  There are 2 pewter dishes, 12 plates and 24 spoons but no table and
  chairs.  Four feather beds, many bed covers, 2 chests but no other
  furniture.  Would these items, normally a part of such a household, be
  removed from the premises prior to the inventory even though the widow was
  to stay on the "plantation" and share it with 3 sons?  The will deals only
  with William's bequeathing his land to his sons with a few sterling
  shillings to his daughters.

  Interesting!  Any input about the missing wagons, tables, chairs, etc. would
  be appreciated.
  M. Preston

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