ALTENTEIL
When German families at Reeseville transferred their farms to the next generation in the 19th century, they often signed bonds of maintenance (known as Altenteil or "old folks part"). These were agreements that served as extra security for payment of the mortgage that was executed at the time the deed was drawn up. These agreements provided that the child who obtained the farm was to provide his parents with specified items for their maintenance. As one can see, these agreements were very specific. One can also see that the agreements placed a very heavy burden, not upon the inheriting son, but upon his wife and daughters. Their work and the product of their labors were the main items to be provided under the terms of the agreements.
Click on the names at left to view the terms and conditions of their Altenteil.