Joseph was mentioned in the 15 March 1838 will of his father, Barbee Spindle, proved 16 April 1838. I lend to wife Fanny Spindle that part of the plantation whereon I now reside, and Negroes Barnet[?], David, Robert, Joshua, Lewis, William, Daniel, Polly, Esther, Paul, Charity, Maria, Hariet, Rachael, Lucy, Celia, Milly, Maria Sr., Louisa, Ann, Wallace, Jane, Sally, Judith, Milly Sr., Esther Sr., Rose, Jane Jr., Courtney, Tenah[?], Marinda, John, and Climma[?], and additional property. Wife to hold estate for the support of herself and children, namely Barbee, Joseph and Elizabeth Spindle, and as they reach 21 she is to pay each $4,000. After her death, estate to be equally divided between children. If my children Barbee, Joseph and Elizabeth shall all die before lawful page, then I give their negroes to my wife. [Essex County, Virginia, Will Book 24, pages 271–272.]