In 1935, Louise Baier of Washington Heights in New York City took in a stray kitten and named him Tommy Tucker, possibly after the famous orchestra leader of the day. Tommy was had some behavioral quirks and health problems, but Baier loved him. She was also an advocate for cats and cat charities. When Baier died in 1939 with no heirs, she bequeathed funds for several animal and children's charities, plus her housekeeper, and $5,000 for Tommy. In fact, she had spelled out exactly what was to become of Tommy. Baier had designated Dr. Henry L. Hirscher, Tommy's veterinarian who knew the cat well, as Tommy's caretaker. She also appointed a trustee for Tommy's funds, and instructions for the eventualities of Tommy's death or Dr. Hirscher's death. That seems like everything was covered, except for the fact that the judge in the probate case did not find it appropriate for a cat to inherit $5,000. Read the story of Tommy Tucker and his inheritance at The Hatching Cat. -via Strange Company