(January 21, 1815), in the Missouri Probate Code, 1 Terr.L., p. 411, § 45, lists what inherited property is exempt from creditors. This list of items which are considered essential for living, revised numerous times through January 1, 1981, still contains that “family Bible” as in the original version:
EXEMPT PROPERTY, FAMILY ALLOWANCE AND HOMESTEAD ALLOWANCE
V.A.M.S. § 474.250
Text of Code
§ 474.250. Exempt Property of Surviving Spouse or Minor Children.
The surviving spouse, or unmarried minor children of a decedent are entitled absolutely to the following property of the estate without regard to its value: The family Bible and other books, one automobile or other passenger motor vehicle with its means of propulsion, all wearing apparel of the family, all household electrical appliances, … all household and kitchen furniture, appliances, utensils and implements. Such property shall belong to the surviving spouse, if any, otherwise to the unmarried minor children is equal shares.2481