SMCGS Databases: Public Administrator Reports

Public Administrator’s Reports

These files, located in cabinet RC5B1 Drawer 2 at the San Mateo County Record Repository, contain the semi-annual reports made by the Public Administrator of the estates that have been placed in his hands.  In most cases there are also affidavits of publication of the same. There is one report from 1880.  Regular reports start in 1897. Reports for 1907-1909 and 1912-1921 are missing. If you are looking for those years, they should be published in the local newspaper. 

Reports were compiled differently in different years.  In the earliest years names were placed on the reports until they were disposed of.  Some estates went on for some time as heirs were sought or if there were difficulties in disposing of the assets.

 

In later years they appear only once, most likely in the time period that they first were put in the hands of the public administrator.  The reports might show amount estate was appraised at, the amount actually collected, the amount of administration fees, the amount paid out for expenses and any amount still remaining in the administrator’s care.   Search the Database. 

The San Mateo County Public Administrator website give a good description of what a public administrator does.  The job description does not appear to have changed in the past 136 years.

You will not find any further information by accessing these reports, however, you might find more information in the court records for the administration.  There also might be further information about some of the estates in the newspapers.  There might be advertisements looking for heirs and those who owe money or were owed money by the decedent. 

Some of the Public Administrators and Clerks during time period of the records

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