Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance v. Newsom

This was a suit to foreclose a deed of trust on 228 acres of land. The grantor having died and his heirs were made parties, defendants. The bill alleged that 68 acres of said land had been conveyed to W. L. Newsom, “for his use and benefit during his life, then to his bodily heirs.” While the hafaendum clause of the deed stated “to have and to hold the same unto the said William L. Newsom, and his children and assigns forever.” A question had arisen as to whether he owned the fee simple title or only a life estate in said property. It was contended by the complainant that he was the owner of…