Wills are typically a serious topic of conversation and are not commonly mentioned until after a death or illness. Wills are usually associated with gifts of cash, real estate, jewellery, antiques etc. But occasionally, odd items end up in a will. Despite their seeming oddity, these bizarre objects might have had great significance for the deceased person. This emphasises how important it is to create and update a will because our loved ones might not understand the significance of certain items in our lives.
This blog looks at some of the odd items that people have left in their will.
Something Fishy
A woman left £100,000 to her pet goldfish. The link between a pet and its owner should never be undervalued! Regretfully, it is illegal to leave money to a pet. Although you can put money in a trust to take care of the pet, the beneficiary must be a human.
Nasty List
A grandmother left a single penny along with a list of disparaging remarks for each family member, except for one granddaughter, to whom she gave a little cash. What a way of expressing your opinions from beyond the grave!
Manure Spreader
Following a disagreement over a possible inheritance, a father left his son a manure spreader in his will.
Hair
Napoleon expressed his desire for locks of his hair to be divided among his relatives. A lock of his hair is also on show at Shrewsbury Castle.
Other Strange Gifts Left in Wills
- A prostate
- A kidney stone
- A Toblerone
- A pair of eyes
Putting Together a Will
It’s never too early to prepare a will. If this list has made you consider the items you will leave behind, you should consider making your will. Everybody has slightly different assets and wishes, and a will is personal. It is only natural to desire something that holds worth for you to go to a decent home, but make sure you express your wishes clearly since some people might not find the more esoteric stuff significant.
Gifts made in a will do not need to be of monetary value. Emotional significance may hold equal or greater significance. A will also remove all doubt and stop the family from mishandling your belongings.
