Wealth Estimates for American Colonies, 1774

FAIN: RB-10013-70

Washington University (St. Louis, MO 63130-4862)
Alice H. Jones (Project Director: June 1970 to present)

Bicentennial project to estimate size and composition of private wealth of inhabitants of 13 original Colonies in 1774, based on probate inventories, estate accounts and supplementary data such as wills, tax lists, etc. ABSTRACT: Bicentennial project to estimate size and composition of private wealth of inhabitants of 13 original Colonies in 1774, based on probate inventories, estate accounts and supplementary data such as wills, tax lists, etc. Sample consists of counties with largest number of then living wealthholders. Findings of sample reveal average wealth, its specific composition and distribution; differences in wealth patterns examined with regard to age, occupation, sex, place of residence, size of net worth. Estimate of wealth of entire population will also be made; both estimates will be compared among the regions, as well as with findings from other studies for U.S. made in 1805, 1850, 1900, 1924, 1966. Expected book will provide systematic quantitative data heretofore lacking with which to evaluate American economic achievement at close of 100 years of colonial history, difference in economic and social structure of regions, level and kind of living at time of Revolution. Will provide basis for comparison between Colonial period and present with regard to economic specialization and regional differences, etc. Funds for salaries, wages, travel, supplies, operation costs.