The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
Riches of the father do not guarantee riches for his children and so was the case of George M. Foote, who bypassed his own children and left in his will his estate to his grandchildren.
No only were his children incensed by this perceived injustice but also the Stronghurst community felt that they had been wronged. Hence, the children contested the will and finally brought to trial in 1897 with lawyers representing everyone.
About 75 witnesses were called; however, the lawyer drawing up the will took the precaution to have 14 or 15 of the prominent citizens of Stronghurst and vicinity to sign the document as witnesses.
The contestants maintained that Mr. Foote's mental condition was lacking at the time he made the will.
Also they claimed that his housekeeper of many years had unduly prejudiced him against his children and influenced him to disinherit them.
The case was tried by a jury which sustained the will on all points. Therefore, when George M. F. Foote, the grandchild given the bulk of the fortune reached the age of 21 years, the property was turned over to him.
1911 History of Henderson County