This is the last will and Testament of Thomas Ford Senr. of Shamblers Cove in the Electoral District of Bonavista, in the Island of Newfoundland, Fisherman I, Thomas Ford being of sound disposing mind memory and understanding do hereby will devise and bequeath as follows viz: -
1. To my five sons - John William Stephen Thomas and Walter all that piece or parcel of land situate and being in Smarts Island Cove in Shambler’s Cove owned by me and held under Grant from the Crown No. 8278 dated the 30th day of October A.D. 1897. Also all that piece or parcel of land and premises held under Grant from the Crown No 3742 dated 7th day of March A.D. 1876 situate and being in Smarts Island Cove, in Shamblers Cove share and share alike. Provided never the less that none of the said property shall be sold or go out of the family, but the brothers or their heirs may buy from one another.
2. I order that my pit-saw spring balance and set of scales be left on the property for the use of the afore mentioned brothers
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand this Eleventh day of June A.D. one thousand nine hundred and three Thomas his X mark Ford Senior Signed by the said Thomas Ford, Senior, the Testator in the presence of us who in his presence and in the presence of each other at the same time subscribed our names as witnesses, the said will having been read over and fully explained to the said Testator     John Burry of Shamblers Cove Fisherman     John Critchley of Greenspond     Ferryman