Family:Zachariah Offutt and Eleanor Beall (1)

Zachariah and Eleanor supposedly married about 1774, but there is no evidence for that date. Based on them having 3 sons over 16 on the 1790 census, they probably married closer to 1770. Zachariah would have been about age 40, and Eleanor about age 20.

Eleanor's will names eight children, presumably by sex and age. Her instructions for Alexander's share are interesting. Was he somehow unable to care for himself?

Eleanor Offutt, widow of Zachariah - 2 Nov 1811 - 27 Jun 1812. "One eighth of estate after funeral charges & debts are paid to be retained by the executor for the use of son, Alexander Offutt, to be put out at interest, the interest arising from it to be applied to his use as shall be most advantageous to him each year. If son Alexander becomes unable to labor for his support, then my executor shall appropriate any part of the whole of my money remaining in his hands for the support of son Alexander Offutt. At his death, executor shall divide the remaining money equally between my seven other children or their heirs. Remaining seven eighths of estate to sons and daughters: Andrew Offutt, Basil Offutt, Aaron Offutt, Charles Offutt, Rachel Clagett, Mary Clingan, Eleanor Offutt. Executor: Basil Offutt."

1.   Chesley, Nelle Offutt. Offutt family genealogy. (Salt Lake City, Utah: Genealogical Society of Utah, 1990)
   Book II, p 145, 148.