What does "late" in documents mean?

starkeypd · February 21

In a land deed document in Penn, it lists a bunch of people... often using the term "late"

I used to think it meant they were deceased but after looking at this doc, I'm not sure

John Perchment to John Black

Thanks

Áine Ní Donnghaile · February 21

Late, in this case, for the females, is indicating a maiden name. For example, "To Martha Cain (widow) formerly Martha Parchment"

That record is an excellent clue for family research.

starkeypd · February 21

Thanks, does it mean the husband is deceased?

Áine Ní Donnghaile · February 21

Only for those that mention widows. The others have no information about the status of the husband.

Best Answer