Monumental Inscriptions on the ledgerstones inside All Saints Church, Maidstone

71

Here
Lyeth ye Body of
Mrs MARGARET GODFREY
Daughter of
LAMBARDE GODFREY
of ye County of Kent Esq
She departed this Life
ye 22ns of Feby.
1707
    8
in ye 55th Year of her Age

The following inscription is inverted

M[  ] S.F. MOIR
Etat 36
Obiit 5th Sep1851

72

In Memory of
PEGGY Daughter of
JOHN and MARG. GREEN
who died June 27th 1783
Aged 19 Years
Also JOHN Son of the
above JOHN and
MARGARET GREEN
died October 20th 1791
Aged 31 Years
Also ELIZABETH ANNA
his Wife who departed
this Life April 9th 1802
Aged 36 Years
Also Mr JOHN GREEN
of the Borough of Southwark
Nephew of the above
JOHN and MARGARET
GREEN who departed this
Life the 18th of April 1824
Aged 54 Years

73

Under this Stone
are deposited the
Remains of
MARGARET Wife of
JOHN GREEN Gent
of this Town
who departed this Life
the 8th of May 1807
Aged 71 Years
Also the above said
JOHN GREEN Gent
who died September the 2nd
1808 Aged 80 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 24th August 1807

John Green of Maidstone, Gentleman.

First, all his debts, funeral and probate costs to be paid.

He appoints his daughter, Ann Hollingworth, wife of Finch Hollingworth of Boxley, Paper Maker, his executor. He gives to her his own house in Stone Street, Maidstone and all other real estate, including his shares of real estate, for ever. Also to her £2,000, upon trust, to invest in the Public Stocks or other Government or real securities. She is to transfer the fund to his grand children, Robert, Dennis and Mary Hollingworth, children of his late daughter, Mary by Robert Hollingworth of Boxley, Paper Maker, when the youngest is 21, equally shared. If any die before 21, their share to the survivors, equally shared. If these children all die under 21 years, the money to go into his residuary personal estate.

Also to daughter, Ann, £1,000, upon trust, to invest as before and to transfer the fund to his grandson, Thomas Pope, son of his late daughter, Elizabeth by Thomas Blissett Pope of Maidstone, Gentleman, at 21 years. If Thomas dies under 21 years leaving no lawful issue, then the fund goes to the benefit of his above mentioned grandchildren at 21 years. If they all die under 21 years the £1,000 goes into his residuary personal estate.

He gives £100 3% Consolidated Bank Annuities, part of £200  in the Bank of England to the Charity Schools, called the Blue Coat Schools in Maidstone. The remaining £100 stock to the Charity Sunday Schools in Maidstone.

The rest and residue of money, securities for money, goods, chattels, effects and personal estate to his daughter, Ann, absolutely.

Witnesses: John King  Thomas Reader  Charles Topping

Codicil 9th January 1808

He has bequeathed £1,000 to his daughter, Ann upon trust for his grandson Thomas Pope, on condition that if Thomas dies under 21 leaving no lawful issue, the £1,000 to go to his 3 other Hollingworth grandchildren, Robert, Dennis and Mary. He now make void the legacy void. Instead he gives the £1,000 to Thomas Blissett Pope, father of Thomas, upon trust. He to use the interest and dividends towards te maintenance and education of Thomas. If Thomas dies under 21 years, leaving no lawful issue, he gives £500, part of the £1,000, to Thomas Blissett Pope, absolutely.

The other £500, goes to his 3 Hollingworth  grandchildren, Robert, Dennis and Mary.

He ratifies rest of the will.

Witnesses: Elizabeth Cotton ? Thomas Reader ?  Charles Topping

Proved 2nd November 1808

Note in the margin, 22nd December 1817

The will was not administered by Ann Hollingworth. Administration is now granted to Finch Hollingworth, Esquire, administrator of Ann's estate

74

In Memory of
WILLIAM GREENE
Gent
who departed this Life
August the 15th 1789
Aged 76 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 7th December 1787

William Greene of Maidstone, Gentleman.

All of his real estate, to his wife, Mary, for life. After her death, his own house on the west side of Stone Street, Maidstone and 2 pieces of land called, Upper and Lower Arden , of about 25 acres, part of White's Farm in Gillingham, occupied by John Bell, to James Smyth of Maidstone, Wine Merchant and Charlotte, his wife for their joint lives. After the death of the survivor of them, then to William Smyth, their son and the heirs of his body. In default of such heirs, then to all the other children of James Smyth, for ever.

His 5 adjoining houses under the cliff near the great bridge in Maidstone, occupied by David Dan, John Brooke, Widow Barling, Elizabeth Skinner, Spinster and James Counts and real estate not before given, after the death of his wife, to James Smyth and his heirs, for ever, provided, it is lawful for his wife and for James and Charlotte Smyth and the survivor of them, to devise and lease  Upper and Lower Arden for a term not exceeding 21 years.....................

He also gives his wife, all household goods, plate, linen and furniture.

To his friends, John Taylor of Wrotham, Paper Maker and Thomas Wildes of Maidstone, Gentleman, £50 each, in consideration of their roles as his trustees.

They to pay his wife the interest and dividends on his personal state, for her lifetime and after her death, they to pay the dividends on £3,000 3% Consolidated Bank Annuities towards the maintenance and education of William Smyth, in such manner as James and Charlotte Smyth think fit, until he is 21, when the £3,000 will be transferred to him.

His trustees, after his wife's death, to apply the interest on £1,000 3% Consolidated Bank Annuities to the maintenance and education  of Mary Smyth, sister of William, until she is 21 or married if earlier, she must have the consent of his trustees and her parents  to marry, then which ever first occurs, she to be given the £1,000.

After the death of his wife, the trustees to pay the following legacies, if beneficiaries are then living.

£300 3% bank annuities to to Charles Harris the Elder of Maidstone, Hatter.

£100 3% bank annuities, to Walter Harris son of the above.

£300 3% bank annuities to How Green the Elder of Maidstone, Pipe Maker.

£300 3% bank annuities to William Green of Maidstone, Broker.

£100 3% bank annuities to William Green son of the above.

£100 3% bank annuities to Simon Rouse of Bearstead, Writing Master.

£100 3% bank annuities to George Green of West Malling, Ginger Bread Baker.

£50 to Mary Hickmott wife of [          ]Hickmott of Goudhurst, Labourer, she is the daughter of Francis Thomas .

£50 to Jane Ashdown, wife of [             ] Ashdown of Brenchley, daughter of John Austen.

£50 to Hannah Fielder , Spinster, daughter of Thomas Fielder of Old Hay near Mereworth.

£50 to Elizabeth Fielder, Spinster, also a daughter of Thomas Fielder.

Trustees to apply rest and residue to the benefit of James Smyth....................................

He appoints James Smyth executor.

Witnesses: William Fowler  Thomas Pine  William Allen

Proved 23rd September 1789

75

In Memory of
MARY wife of
WILLIAM GREENE
Gent
who departed this Life
the 2[4th] [ April ] 1795
Aged 81 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 3rd April 1790

Mary Greene of Maidstone, Widow.

To her friend, James Smyth  of Maidstone, Gentleman, all household goods, furniture, plate, linen, china, effects and personal estate, subject to payment of her debts, funeral charges and legacies she may hereafter make. She appoints him her executor.

Witnesses: Mary Jefferys  Thomas Wildes

Affidavit 4th May 1795

James Smyth of Maidstone, Paper Maker, states on oath, that Mary Greene died on the 24th April1795. He found her will in a box in a closet in her bedroom, where she kept important papers. He made a further search to find a codicil but could not find one. He believes she died before she could add to the will.

Proved 4th May 1795

James Smyth built a paper mill on the river Len at Padsole in 1796, which operated as Smyth and Hollingworth. It then became the property of Robert and Finch Hollingworth. In 1799 they sold it to John Wise and John Hayes, and the Hollingworths purchased Turkey Mill from the famous paper makers, the Whatman family.

76

Here Lyeth the Body of
JOHN GREENHILL Gent
who departed this Life
ye 30th day of August 173[ ]
Aged 52 Years
Here also lyeth interr'd the Body
of MARY GREENHILL Wife of the
said JOHN GREENHILL who
departed this Life January 26th
1765 Aetatis 73
Here also lyeth interr'd the Body of
ROBERT SAYER Son of GEORGE and
MARY SAYER  of Pett in Charing
and Grandson of  JOHN and MARY
GREENHILL who departed this Life
Oct the 30th 1763 Aetatis 4 Years

N.B. There is an interesting Consistory Court of Canterbury will for John Greenhill, who died in 1719, probably father of the  above John  Greenhill.

77

Arms

Hic Jacet JOANNA
GRIFFITHS

78

Here lieth the Body of
MORGN. HALL who departed
this Life the 17th of April 1726
Aged 66 Years
Left issue 8 Sons & 2 Daughters
Here lieth the Body of
WILLM. HALL who departed
this Life the 6th of June [     ]
Aged 21 Years and 4 Months
[                              ]
SAMUEL HALL Surgeon
[Died in 1736]

Concise Consistory Court of  Canterbury Will Dated 9th January 1725 (1726)

Morgan Hall the Elder of Maidstone, Hoy Man.

To his daughter, Elizabeth, for ever, his barn, lands and woods in Headcorn and Boughton Malherbe, occupied by Joseph Igglesden.

To his eldest son, Morgan, his hoy or vessel called Speedwell with the tackle and furniture.

Also to son Morgan, his 2 new barges, with oars, tackle, furniture and the lease of his wharfe held from the Corporation of Maidstone. Son Morgan to carry on the business and to live in his dwelling house, his warehouses, storehouses and premises to son Morgan and his 7 brothers by virtue of a Deed already made by him for the benefit of his sons, a rent of £80 to be paid by Morgan to his brothers for as long as he uses the premises. He desires his younger sons to give no disturbance to their brother.

To his son Henry, his hoy or vessel called the Morgan and Anne with the tackle and furniture, on condition he enters a Bond under the penalty of £100 with his brother Morgan , that he does not hinder, disturb or interrupt  him. Morgan is to pay Henry one eighth of the rent.

To son Thomas, 25 guineas to put him out apprentice as soon as he is old enough.

To son Richard, £60 for putting him out apprentice when he is old enough.

Residue of personal estate, after his debts, legacies and funeral costs are paid, to all his children, then living, equally shared but the share of Thomas and his younger son not to be paid until they have given Bonds to son Morgan of like penalty, £100.

His executors to draw up an accurate inventory of of his personal estate, appraised by 4 able and discreet men, chosen by the executors and his daughter, Elizabeth . His executors are to pay portion for son Henry  and daughter, Elizabeth within 4 months of his death.

Executors to pay his daughter, Anne wife of John Sable, for her own separate use, when she needs it, her husband to have no control over it.

Portion for his minor children to be invested at interest until they are 21, as his executors and daughter, Elizabeth think fit.

His son John, who is a minor, to have his share as soon as possible after his death.

His youngest son is of tender years and will not be able to be placed out apprentice for many years. So son Morgan to keep and monitor him and send him to school to learn to read , write and learn arithmetic, so Morgan to have £12 per annum from the younger son's income and no more.

Sons Morgan and John are his executors, daughter Elizabeth is Overseer of the will, in trust, to see it properly performed, she is also Guardian of his 2 youngest sons.

If his executors can not give good, real securities for his younger children's share of his personal estate, approved by his daughter, Elizabeth , they to have no more of the money than they have secured, the residue to be placed out at interest to another person or persons who can good security approved by Elizabeth. His younger children to be allowed money for clothes and pocket money as executors and Elizabeth think fit.

Witnesses: Samuel Weller  Martin Gilbert  (     ?     ) Weller or Miller ?

Proved  (?) April 1726

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 16th February 1735 (1736)

Samuel Hall of Maidstone, Surgeon.

To his brother, George, his eighth share of the house, outhouse, garden and warehouse at the lower end of Bullock Lane, Maidstone, occupied by his brother, Morgan. Also his marshland at Hoo and all other real estate, for ever.

To his brother, Richard, all his instruments and utensils of surgery and pharmacy and his surgery furniture.

To his brother George, all other household goods, horses, other goods and chattels, ready money, debts due and personal estate, after payment of his debts and funeral charges.

He appoints his brother George, his executor.

Witnesses: Thomas Caine  Mary Caine  Samuel Fullagar

Proved 2nd August 1736

79

Here lieth interred the Body
of Mr THOMAS HALL
who died May ye 20th  [        ]
Aged 63 Years
Also here lieth
ELIZ. Wife of  THOS.
HALL who departed
this Life March ye 2nd 1740
Aged 67
[                               ]
[         ] Wife of THOS. HALL  died
Sept. 12th 1767 Aged 42 Years
[                      ] Daughter [         ]
[              ] Aged 8 [Years] ?
[                                          ]
died the 24th of Aug.
1790 Aged 54 Years

HALL see APSLEY

80

[                             ]
[         ] Daughter of the
above named  JOHN
[HA]LS[N]OD who [died]
the 19th July 16[  ] ?

From Russell's History of Maidstone, Ann Halsnod was admitted to the freedom of the town, 1645, as the eldest daughter of a freeman.

81

Here Lyes the Body of ARTHUR
HARRIS Son of EDWARD HARRIS
who departed this Life the 27th
of Jan 168[ ] Aged [  [ Years
and [  ] Months [on the]
North side of this Stone Lyes
the Body of JOHN HARRIS
MARY HARRIS ELIZABETH HARRIS
and ARTHUR HARRIS [also]
CHRISTOPHER HARRIS

82

In Memory of the Reverend
ABRAHAM HARRIS
Forty Years Minister
of the Unitarian Chapel
in this Town who died
the 1st of July 1820
Aged 60 Years

83

Beneath this Stone
are the Remains of
MARY HARRIS
who died Jan 23rd 1836
Aged 82 Years
Sacred to the Memory of
SARAH CHAPMAN HARRIS
Wife of
CHRISTOPHER HARRIS
of this Town
who died April 11th 1837
Aged 27 Years
Leaving 2 Sons
CHRISTOPHER & CHARLES

HARRIS see PEMBLE

HARTRIDGE see POLHILL

84

HASELL Family, Children ?

               T. HASELL 170[4]
F. H. 1705
E.H. 1706
A.H. 1707
F.H. 1709
F.H. 1710
C.H. 1711
J.H. 1712

85

Here Lyeth Interr'd the Body of
BENJAMIN HATLEY
of London Merchant
He died the 19th day of December
MDCCXXIII
in the 78th Year of his Age
MARY his Wife departed this Life
on the 4th day of April
MDCCXVII
Aged 65 Years
and Lies buried near this Place

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 23rd October 1723

Benjamin Hatley, Citizen and Grocer of London.

He desires to be buried in Maidstone church, as near as possible to his brother, Doctor Hatley's first wife, attended by his servants , relatives and friends who wish to come.

His debts at home and overseas and his funeral costs to be first paid.

He is a widower and has one daughter  (Mary) who married Francis Foot without his consent and Foot has not made any settlement on her. Testator has not given any portion but by the Custom of the City of London, he gives half of his personal estate to Francis Foot, “at the right of his said wife”.

The other half he gives as follows: to his grandchildren, Mary, Benjamin and John Foot, £100 each at their respective ages of 21 or day of marriage for Mary, if earlier. If any of them die before then, their share to the survivors, equally shared.

To his niece, Elizabeth Pattenden, £200

To his servant Nathaniel Smith, £200 and £10 for mourning.

To his servant James Igglesden, if with at his death, £50 and £10 for mourning.

To Hannah [          ], servant of his daughter, Mary, £20.

To Elizabeth Turneycliffe, formerly his cook maid, £10,

To Elizabeth Watson, his former servant, £10 to buy a piece of plate and a ring of 1 guinea value.

To Thomas Long, his cooper, £80 and to him and his wife, £10 for mourning.

To Ambrose Brewster, his coachman, £80 and £10 to him and his wife for mourning, if they are with him at his death.

To his footman, William Ball, if still with him, £5 and £5 for mourning.

To Mr George Morley, Citizen and Grocer of London, £20 and 1 guinea for a ring

To Giles Rathon ?, servant to Thomas Long, £10, which is owed to testator and the bond to be cancelled, he also gives £10 to him and his wife for mourning and 1guinea for a ring.

To Lydia, wife of William Jones of Mortlake, £5

To his cousin, Henry Pattenden and his wife; to nephew, John Hatley and his wife; to cousin, Daniel Norton and his wife; to his brother Sanders and his wife, £10 each for mourning.

Rings to be given at his funeral to such relations and friends as his executor thinks proper.

His executors to sell all tobacco he has in England  or tobacco to come on his account. Executors to be allowed commission or provision for the same at 2 ½ % .

To Nathaniel Smith, £100 for his troubles for managing his concerns, as one of his executors.

His own house to be “quitted” according to the usual notice, his servants may continue there for 3 months after his burial, if they think fit. His executors to allow 40 shillings per week  for housekeeping  and for their wages at the rate he now pays them.

His ship called the Hatley may go on two voyages to Virginia after his death if, Nathaniel Smith  thinks fit and insures that part of the cargo which is testator's, then his share in this ship to be sold.

All his real estate in and near Maidstone and his fee farming rents, to his nephew, George Hatley and Thomas Mercer  of London, Merchant and Nathaniel Smith, upon trust. They to pay his daughter, Mary Foot the rents  and profits of the real estate, deducting £10 per annum, which he gives his trustees for their troubles in his trust.

When his grand daughter, Mary Foot is 21, trustees to raise £2,000 by sale or mortgage of his real estate for her benefit.

The residue from his real  estate after the £2,000 is raised, to his daughter, Mary for life and after her death, then to her first born lawfully begotten son and the heirs of his body, in default of heirs, then to the second, third and so on and their male heirs in priority of birth. In default of such heirs, 2 thirds  of the estate, chargeable in trust, he gives to grand daughter, Mary and the remaining third to his other Foot grandchildren, equally shared. If grand daughter, Mary dies before she is 21, trustees to hold the 2 thirds and the £2,000 for the benefit of his Foot grandchildren, equally shared.

To George Hatley £150 and £20 to him and his wife for mourning and his father's picture.

To Thomas Mercer £150 and £20 for him and his wife for mourning.

The rest and residue of his personal estate to his Foot grandchildren, Mary and John, that is, 2 thirds to Mary and 1 third to John. If they are not alive and there are no lawful heirs of their bodies living, then to the benefit of his nephews, John and George Hatley and his niece, Elizabeth Pattenden, daughter of his sister, Elizabeth and their heirs, for ever.

If his daughter, Mary dies within a year of his death, his executors in trust, to pay Francis Foot £600.

He appoints George Hatley , Thomas Mercer and Nathaniel Smith executors..............................

Witnesses: Langley Hill  John Allen  William Calvert, his Clerks

Proved 20th December 1723

86

Here Resteth the Body of
SAMUEL HAULE  the Son of
GEORGE HAULE Esq
departed this Life Ma[   ]
23rd 1656 in ye 20th Year of his Age

87

Here Lyeth the Body of RICHARD
HEELY who departed this
Life [  ] July 16[98] An[     ]
[         ] Age  having
[       [ this Towne
Here Lieth  also ye Body
of FRANCES  Wife of ye
above said RICHARD
HEELY Gent who
departed this Life March
ye 5th 1714 Aged 78

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 26th March 1697

Richard Heely of Maidstone, Gentleman.

His debts and funeral charges to be first paid.

To his wife, Frances, his house in East Lane, Maidstone, occupied by George Spencer, she is to sell this and with his personal estate pay his debts and funeral charges.

All other real estate and his shares of real estate, not before disposed of, to his wife, for life, as long as she remains his widow but if she remarries then the above to his sons, Gervas and Stephen, equally shared.

If she remains his widow, then after her death the above real estate to his sons in shares directed by her in her will or other witnessed documents. In default of such direction, then all to his sons, equally shared.

He appoints his wife his executor.

Witnesses: Edward Fleete  Jo. Torson  Charles Hinston

Proved 29th July 1698

88

Here Lyeth the Body of STEPHEN
HEELEY Son of
RICHARD HEELY
Citizan & Ch[       ]
of London who
dyed September 27th
1709
Aged [  ]
Here also Lieth the Body of
GERVAS HEELEY Gent
[died 1748]
Aged [  ]

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 19th October 1747

Gervas Heely of Maidstone, Gentleman.

To his friend John Kent of Maidstone, Inn Holder, his house, stables and outhouses at Westree, Maidstone occupied by Thomas Lomas, also land planted with hops, about 2 acres, also in Westree, for ever. Also to John Kent his household goods, stock, plate, linen, securities for money, personal estate and effects.

John Kent is his executor.

Witnesses: J. Cage  T May  Peter Groombridge

Proved 24th September 1748

Note in margin

This page writing was shown to John Cage, Esquire at the time of his examination taken in Chancery on the behalf of Samuel Plummer and another Gentleman (complt,  ? )   against John Kent and another  ( deft ? )

89

Here Lyeth the Body of
FRANCES
the Wife of
WILLIAM HEMPSON
of Lincoln's Inn Esq
and Daughter of
EDWARD ADAMS
Late of London Merchant
She departed this Life
on the 19th day
of October
1699

90

Here Lyeth the Body of
Mrs MARY  HENSLOW
Sister [of] MARTHA
HUNTER  who died
April ye 13th 1724 Aged 66
Here Lyeth also
the Body of [              ]
HUNTER [    ] who died
Nov ye 15th 1739
Aged 45 Years
Also
Mrs ANN MAYNARD
died Oct the 30th 1768
Aged 63 Years
Mrs MARY MAYNARD
died April the 21st 1783
Aged 73 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Date 28th April 1760

Ann Maynard of Maidstone, Spinster.

First her debts and funeral costs to be paid.

To her sister, Mary Maynard of Maidstone, Spinster, all her half part of a house with [           ] other dwellings adjoining with garden and orchard, on the north side of Maidstone High Street, occupied by Joseph Durrant; also 3 adjoining houses on the east side of the same street, late occupied by Nehemiah Wimble, William Fansett and Thomas Saywell, now by [            ] Collins, Thomas Reed and Thomas Bradley; also a house, barn, stables, garden and land in Mersham, late occupied by Edward Wanger ?, now by her brother, William; also a house and timber wharf and land adjoining of about 10 acres near the River Medway in Maidstone, late occupied by Caleb Jemmett, now by Stephen and Edward Prentis; also land planted with hops and the oasthouse , in all, about 8 acre above the last mentioned 10 acres, in Maidstone, also occupied by Stephen and Edward Prentis, this was given to her and her sister, Mary by the last will of Edward Hunter, late of Maidstone.

She gives her half of the house occupied by Joseph Durrant to her brother, Stephen for his lifetime, after his death, to all his younger children at 21 years of age,for ever. If any die before then leaving no lawful issue, their share to the survivors equally shared. If they all die then to the older children of Stephen, for ever, equally shared.

After the death of her sister, Mary she gives her half of the 3 houses above mentioned to her brother Stephen, for ever. Also the property in Mersham and land with hops and a oasthouse  in Maidstone, occupied by Stephen and Edward Prentis, for his lifetime and after his death, then to his sons, William and Stephen for ever, equally shared. If either of them die under 21 leaving no lawful issue then all to the survivor.

She gives her share of the land planted with hops and the oasthouse in Maidstone occupied by Stephen and Edward Prentis, after her sister Mary and brother Stephen's deaths, to her nieces, Ann and Mary Maynard, daughters of her brother William, for ever, equally shared.

After sister Mary and brother Stephen's deaths, to Elizabeth wife of her brother, William, an annuity of £5 for life as long as she remains his widow, this is charged on the property at Mersham. She also gets another annuity of £5, charged upon the same condition from land occupied by Stephen and Edward Prentis.

Also after the deaths of her brother and sister, her half of the house, timber wharf  and land occupied by Stephen and Edward Prentis, to her nephew Robert Maynard, for his lifetime and after his death, to his lawful children, for ever. In default of such children or they do not survive to 21 years of age, with no lawful issue, then to the other children of brother, Stephen, for ever, equally shared.

The properties can be leased for terms not exceeding 14 years.

To her brother, Robert, £100 stock of the New South Sea Annuities and to brother, William, £200 of the same stock.

She gives her nephew, Robert Maynard, £100 and to her nieces, Ann and Mary Maynard, daughters of brother, William, £50 each, at 21 years of age.

To the Reverend Israel Lewis 10 guineas, if he is still Minister of the Presbyterian Congregation at Maidstone at her death.

To Elizabeth Norman, her servant 10 guineas if still with her.

She appoints her sister, Mary and brother, Stephen her executors.

To brother Stephen £200 in the above stock for his care and trouble as an executor.

After her debts, funeral costs and legacies are paid, the residue of her goods, chattels, effects, real and personal, to her sister, Mary, for ever.

Witnesses: William Hatch Richard Gammon Thomas Willard

Proved 8th December 1768

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 28th April 1761

Mary Maynard of Maidstone, Spinster.

This will is, more or less a mirror image of her sister's concerning the properties they were bequeathed by Edward Hunter.

First, her debts and funeral costs to be paid.

Her share of the properties occupied by Joseph Durrant,  Collins, Thomas Reed, Thomas Bradley, the property at Mersham, occupied by her brother, William, the house, wharf and land occupied by Stephen and Edward Prentis and the 8 aces of hops also occupied by them, to her sister Anne for life. After her death the property occupied by Joseph Durrant to her brother, Robert, for life. After his death then to her brother, William, for life and after his death, to his younger children and their heirs, equally divided.

After her sister's death, her share of the above 3 houses, to brother, Stephen, for ever, also the property in Mersham and land in Maidstone occupied by Stephen and Edward Prentis, to her brother, William for life and after his death, to his sons, William and Stephen, for ever, equally shared.

Other land in Maidstone also occupied by Stephen and Edward Prentis, after her sister's and brother's deaths, to nieces, Ann and Mary Maynard, for ever, equally shared.

Also after her sister's and brother's deaths, to Elizabeth wife of  William Maynard, an annuity of £5 for as long as she remains his widow, charged upon the Mersham property. Also after sister Ann and brother William's deaths another annuity of £5 charged on land occupied by Stephen and Edward Prentis, on same condition as before.

After her sister's death, she gives her share of the house, wharf and land , occupied by Stephen and Edward Prentis to her brother Stephen, for life and after his death,  to his son Robert, for life. After his death then to the lawful issue of his body, for ever. In default of such issue, the to the other children of brother, Stephen, equally shared, for ever.........................

To brother, Robert, £100 stock in the New South Sea Annuities.

To brother William, £200 of the same stock.

To nephew, Robert Maynard,  and nieces, Ann and Mary Maynard,  £50 each at 21 years.

To the Reverend Israel Lewis, 10 guineas if still Presbyterian Minister at Maidstone.

To her servant Elizabeth Borman, if with her at her death, 10 guineas.

She appoints her sister Anne and brother, Stephen, executors and gives Stephen £200 of the South Sea Stock for his troubles as executor.

Residue of goods, chattels, real and personal estate, to sister, Anne, for ever.

Witnesses: William Hatch  Richard Gammon  Thomas Willard

Codicil 21st February 1769

Her sister Anne has now died.

To her brother, Stephen, another £200 of the above stock.

To nieces, Elizabeth, Martha and Jane Maynard, daughters of brother, William, £100 each of the same stock at 21 years or day of marriage, if earlier.

To nephew, Robert another £200 of the same stock

To the present wife of brother, Stephen, 10 guineas.

To Sarah Prentis daughter of Edward, of Maidstone, Timber Merchant, £100 of the same stock at 21 years.

All of her clothes to nieces, Ann, Mary, Elizabeth, Martha and Jane Maynard, equally shared.

Reside, after debts, funeral costs and legacies are paid, to brothers, Stephen and William, equally shared.

She appoints brother William, in place of sister, Anne as executor.

Rest of Will confirmed.

Witnesses: William J. Coast  Thomas Willard

Codicil 30th January 1781

To nephew Robert Maynard, another £60 and the  worked picture, representing the History of King David but if Robert dies with no children living, the picture to remain in the family. To his wife, Rebecca, £10

To Elizabeth, daughter of the above Robert and Rebecca, £100 of the same South Sea Stock at 21 years or day of marriage, if earlier, in meantime interest towards her maintenance and education. If she dies under 21, the £100 to be shared equally by her siblings, in default of children then to Robert and Rebecca.

To niece Mary, wife of John Myers, a further £10 and a large spoon marked E.H. And to John Myers £10                                                                                                          A.H.

To Jane daughter of John and Mary Myers, £100 of the same stock at 21 years or marriage day. As before interest to her benefit until she is 21. If she dies before then, the £100 to her siblings, equally shared. In default of children then to her parents.

To her niece Elizabeth Maynard, £200 of the same stock, her watch and trinkets.

To niece Martha Maynard, £200 of the same stock and a half pint silver mug  and table spoon marked  A.M.

             M.M.

To niece Jane Maynard, £200 of the same stock and  a half pint silver mug and picture of Sampson.

To nephews William and Stephen Maynard, £10 each

To Mary wife of nephew Stephen, £20.

To brother Stephen and his wife, Mary, 10 guineas each.

To  Mary Hunphrey, her servant, £5 if still with her at her death.

To the mother of her late servant, Sarah Springate, £5.

She appoints brother Stephen and his son Stephen, executors. If the senior dies his son Robert will take his place as an executor.

The residue of her estate to her executors, for ever.

She has given her clothes to her 5 nieces, one of them, Ann has died, so she gives the same and her household linen to the survivors, equally shared.

Witnesses: Henry Timbury  Henry Groombridge

Proved 14th May 1783 Granted to William and Stephen, her brothers.

                                                                                91

Here Lieth [       ]
[          ]
[     ] HA[   ] [who departed]
this Life [             ]
ELIZA [            ] [who]
departed [                    ]
ANN H[ESTER] ?
Died [            ] 1765
Aged [  ]

Mrs CATHERINE HESTER
died 30th Sept. 1827
Aged 83 Years

Mrs HENRIETTA ANN CROSS
died April 7th 1827
Aged 80 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 27th June 1826

Henrietta Ann Cross of Maidstone, Spinster.

She appoints the Reverend Thomas Pearse of Folkestone, executor.

All her real and personal estate to her friend, Catherine Hester of Maidstone, widow, for life and after her death, Mary Maria Hester, widow, relict of Catherine's late son, Theodore John Hester, to have an annuity of £100 for life.

To Frances Fuggles of Maidstone, spinster, now a servant of Catherine Hester, an annuity of £60, for life, start 3 months after Catherine Hester's death.

To Thomas Pearse, £100, 3 months after Catherine Hester's death.

After Catherine Hester's death, subject to the annuities and legacies, her real and personal estate to her friend Elizabeth Day, senior of Maidstone, widow, for life and after her death, then to Elizabeth Day junior, her daughter, if she is then living, for ever. In case Elizabeth junior dies in testator's lifetime, then to Emily, wife of Thomas Pearse, for ever.

Witnesses: James Reeves, Minister of Maidstone  William Scudamore, Solicitor of Maidstone  George Langridge, Clerk to Mr Scudamore

Proved 10th July 1827

92

[                            ]
ANN Wife of
ROBERT HILLS who died March 31st 179[ ]
Aged 76 Years
Also the above ROBERT [who died]
January 8th 1801 [                ]
ELIZABETH Wife of ROBERT [HILLS]   
Son of the above who died
[             ] 1819 Aged 25 Years
Also his Infant Son ROBERT
ELIZABETH Wife of THOMAS CUTBUSH
and Daughter of the above ROBERT & ANN
HILLS who died May 24th 1823
Aged 70 Years
Also the above named THOMAS CUTBUSH
who died February 14th 1836
in the 78th Year of his  Age
Also ROBERT
youngest Son of the above
THOMAS & ELIZABETH CUTBUSH
who died October 10th 1864
Aged 60 Years

93

In this Vault
lie the Remains if EDWARD
Son of CHARLES and
CAROLINE HOAR
who died 5th March [    ]
Aged 14 Months
Also HENRY their Son
who died 8th Dec 182[ ]
Aged 3 Months
Also FANNY their Daughter
who died 24th July 184[ ]
Aged 20 Years
Also the above named
CAROLINE HOAR
who died 29th June 1847
Aged 56 Years

94

Here lieth the Body of Mr GEORGE
HODGES of Maidstone Upholster
who departed this Life July the
[  ] 1688 Aged 39 Years
ELIZABETH Wife of  [           ]
JOHN HODGES
of Wrotham Surgeon
was buried November ye 28th
1729 Aged 40 Years

95

Here lyeth ye Body of ELIZABETH
ye Wife of JOHN HODSOLL of this
Towne Gent who departed
this Life ye 23rd day of March
1685

96

[                                  ]
ELIZABETH Wife of the
above ROBERT HOLAH died
September the 20th  1782
Aged 35 Years
ISABELLA the Wife  of
ROBERT SPENCER  died July
the 29th 1783 Aged 70 Years
Likewise the above named
ROBERT SPENCER died Jan
the 26th 1789 Aged 71 Years
And ELIZTH. Daughter of the above
ROBT and ELIZABETH HOLAH
died February 24th 1793
in the 21st Year of her Age
Also CHARLOTTE Daughter
of ROBERT and ELIZABETH
HOLAH died August 19th
1793 Aged 15 Years

Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 7th June 1787

Robert Spencer of Maidstone, Grocer.

To Joseph Springet of Maidstone, Draper, Thomas Sutton of Town Malling, Grocer and Robert Abbey of Maidstone, Grocer, his freehold estate at Penshurst occupied by John Austen; also his freehold estate  in Maidstone, consisting of 5 houses occupied by Thomas Bishop, John Thomas Chapman, Jacob John Mills and Frideswide Savory; also 3 freehold farms at Ulcombe occupied by Nathan Davis, Thomas Collinson and John Kains and 2 freehold farms in in Langley and Otham occupied by John Blackburn and Sarah Masters, upon trust.

After his death trustees to receive the rents  from his 5 houses in Maidstone until John Holah, eldest surviving son of  his late nephew, Robert Holah and his wife, Elizabeth, is 24; in the meantime they to invest the net rents and buy £100 of 3% Consolidated Annuities of the Bank of England, to raise a fund, together with his personal estate to pay his legacies. When John Holah is 24 then, in trust, for his benefit, for ever and for no other purpose.

Concerning his Penshurst estate, trustees to take the rents, as before, for the benefit of George Holah, another son of Robert in the same pattern as for his brother, John.

As to his estate in in Langley and Otham, trustees to receive the rents for the benefit of Henry Holah, another son of Robert and in the same pattern as for his brothers.

Concerning his farm at Ulcombe, his trustees to sell it and discharge the mortgages on the Langley and Otham farms. The surplus, if any, to be invested in the same 3% annuities to pay the legacies.

To Elizabeth, Harriott , Charlotte, Mary Ann and Isabella, the daughters of the late Robert Holah and Elizabeth, £1,000 each from the rents and profits of his freehold farms and houses and his personal estate at 24 years of age or day of marriage if earlier and with the consent of his trustees. If any marry without such consent or die under 24, their legacy to go into his residuary personal estate.

To his niece, Elizabeth Morton, wife of John Morton, of Orford, Huntingdon, £100.

To his nephew, Thomas Holah of London, £200, to be paid from a note of hand for £300 lent to Thomas Holah when he went into trade. To nephew, John Holah, all stock in trade and book debts for the purpose of carrying on the trade with the assistance of Mr Robert Abbey for the purpose of supporting all the younger, Holah children until they are 24.

To his trustees, 5 guineas each for rings. If there id insufficient money to pay the legacies, debts, and funeral charges, he charges his freehold real estate, except that part to be sold, with the shortfall.

The residue of his real and personal estate to John Holah, for ever, subject  to payment of his debts, funeral charges and legacies. He appoints John Holah, John Springett and Thomas Sutton executors.

Trustees can use a sum not exceeding £50 to advance the children of the late Robert Holah to advance in the world in trade or business.

Witnesses: R. Parker  William Stevens  Thomas Nicholas

Codicil not dated or witnessed

The 2 farms in Langley and Otham given to Henry Holah are exempt from making up any shortfall. He gives to John Hoah and his brother, George all his stock in trade and book debts, his furniture and effects, they paying with the  assistance of his trustees his debts and funeral costs. He appoints them executors.

Affidavit 1st October 1789

Thomas Bell of Southwark, Cheesemonger and John Austen of Penshurst, Yeoman, state under oath, they knew deceased very well and were familiar with his handwriting and signature. They have carefully examined the codicil and confirm it is in his hand.

Prove 5th October 1789 Power reserved to John and George Holah, administration granted to John Springet and Thomas Sutton

97

[                                          ]
Daughter of SAMUEL &
JUDITH HOLLISTER
WILLIAM buried Feb 16th 1719 Aged 1 Year
JUDITH buried Jan 1st 1721 Aged 3 Weeks
ROBERT buried Aug 4th 1722 Aged 2 Years
Also JAMES HOLLISTER
died  Aug 5th 1725 Aged 9 Years
Here also lyeth the Body of
JUDITH Wife of
SAMUEL HOLLISTER
who died Feby ye 1st 173[ ]
Aged 40 Years
SAMUEL HOLLISTER Senr  departed
this Life ye 17th of Feby 1749
Aged 69
Mrs KITTY REEVE BARKER
Relict of ED BARKER Esq
of Cambridge
died the 18th January  1837
in the 61st Year of her Age

Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 17th December 1748

Samuel Hollister of Maidstone, Brewer.

To his wife, Elizabeth and his friend, Nathaniel Field of Thomas Street, London, Cheesemonger, his house known by he sign of the Sun  in Butcher Row in the High Town, (High Street), Maidstone, occupied by Richard Brown.

Also his house known by the sign of the Three Compasses in Week Street, Maidstone, occupied by Abraham Masters.

Also his ½ share of land and the house known by the sign of Anchor and Hope, with stable in Week Street, Maidstone and the house known by the sign of the  Bull, with barn and stable and houses and land at Penenden Heath, Boxley, occupied by Jeremiah Parker.

Also his house known by the sign of the Horseshoe, with barn and stable and land in Langley, occupied by Thomas Walter.

Also his his house with barn, stable and land at Langley occupied by John Bassock and all other houses and land, upon trust, to sell. From the proceeds they to pay his debts if his personal estate is not sufficient.

His wife and Field are his executors, he gives them his personal estate and after payment of his debts, funeral and probate costs, he gives his sons, Samuel and Robert, £10 each.

Residue of his estate to his daughter, Ann Hollister and, if any of his real estate remains unsold, after payment of his debts, etc, that to his daughter, Ann for ever.

Witnesses: Ann Stiles  Samuel Fullagar  Thomas Willard

Proved 5th March 1749 (1750)

HOLLISTER see ELLIS

98

Here lyeth ye Body of
THOMAS HOPE
late of Boughton Muchelsea
who departed this Life July
the 26th 1733 Aged 63 Years
Also here lieth the Body of
THOS HOPE [Eldest ?] Son of
[the] above named THO HOPE
[and] ELIZ [his] Wife who departed
this Life [Feb] ye 2nd 1735
Aged [ ]8 Years
left surviving issue  one Son and
3 Daughters

99

Here li[eth] [the] Body of
 WILLIAM [HORSMONDEN] ?Of Maidstone [                        ]
[                             ] HORSMO[NDEN]
Sir WILLIAM TURNER of Richmond
[                                                       ]
FRANCES his Wife who both lie buried in this church
Sir WILLIAM died 1670 Dame FRANCES1681
He was Grandfather of Sir DANIEL HORSMONDEN D.D. Rector of
Ulcomb [               ] his Wife Daughter of  Sir.............
…....................................................................

100

Here lies interr'd the Body of
Mrs JANE HORSMONDEN
Relict of ANTHONY HORSMONDEN Esq
by whom She had four Children Viz
WILLM. ELIZABETH JANE and JOHN
She was Daughter of Sir WILLM. TURNER
of Richmond in Surrey Kt
and departed this Life  the 22nd of Oct 1729
in the 78th Year of her Age
Also the Body of ELIZH. Her Daughter
who was married to DANIEL RUSSELL Esq
Son of Sir WILLM. RUSSELL Kt
and Alderman of the City of London
She departed this Life  the 29th of July 173[3]
in the [5]6th Year of her Age
WILLIAM HORSMONDEN TURNER Esq
by his last will directed this Stone  be laid here
in Memory of his Dear Mother and Sister

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 21st July 1725

Jane Horsmonden of Maidstone, Widow

All of her goods, chattels and personal estate to her daughter, Jane Horsmonden, who is her executor.

Witnesses: William Martin  Robert Rencall  Sarah Martin

Proved 25th February 1729 (1730 in modern calendar)

Note in margin 8th March 1737

Administration granted to Joseph Chapman husband of Jane Chapman, formerly Jane Horsmonden, who did not administer the will while alive.

HOU??? see LACY

101

Beneath this Stone
are deposited the Remains of
Mrs ELIZABETH HUGHES
Wife of Mr JOHN HUGHES Gent
who departed this Life Aug 24th 181[1]
Aged 59 Years
Also THOMAS Son of the above
who died April 18th 1805
Aged 21 Years
Also the above JOHN HUGHES Gent
who departed this Life July 25th 1829
in the 83rd Year of his Age
Mrs MARY FARTHING Relict of
Mr EDWD. FARTHING late of St[rood] ?
who died March 8th 181[3]
Aged 80 Years

HULL see EBBETT

102

In Memory of
WILLIAM Son of
EDWD. and MARTHA HUNTER
who died the 10th May 1712
Aged 21 Years
Also
EDWD. HUNTER Gent  
Son of the above
EDWD. and MARTHA HUNTER
who died  the 15th April 17[5]7
Aged 72 Years

Edward Hunter's mural monument is more informative about his charitable activities, the ledger says nothing about them. The Indenture he mentions in the will contains more details of his Almshouses than the will does.  The Mural Monument Inscriptions will follow the Ledgers later in 2023.

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 11th December 1754

Edward Hunter  of Maidstone, Mercer.

By an indenture dated 21st and 22nd June 1736, he has settled four fifths of his own house upon the Right Honourable Robert, Lord Romney, Sir Roger Meredith (now deceased), William Henley Esquire and William Walter Esquire (now deceased), in trust.

After his death, £105, to be paid to the above trustees to purchase the remaining fifth part.

He gives this fifth part to his cousin, Elizabeth Booth, wife of Thomas Booth  of Woolwich, Mariner and to his cousin Ann Holloway wife of James Holloway of Woolwich, Shipwright. His cousins to have the £105 and to convey the remaining fifth part to the surviving trustees.

He gives Elizabeth Booth his estate at Goudhurst he holds on a lease from the Dean and Chapter of Rochester Cathedral, occupied by Thomas Ball and all household goods in the house belonging to the same estate known as the Star and Crown Inn.

To Ann Holloway, £300 but if she is dead, the £300 to her daughter, Frances Gough, if she has any right or claim to the fifth part of his house she will join in the conveyance of the same.

By the above mentioned Indenture, he has granted and assigned to the Reverend Samuel Weller (deceased), Thomas Nightingale of Maidstone, Thread Twister and Thomas Baytop of Maidstone, Grocer, £600 Old South Sea Annuities and £600 New South Sea Annuities , upon trust.  (this is the main part of the cost of erecting his Almshouses).

Stephen Prentis of Maidstone, Carpenter is to be employed to do the carpentry work on his Almshouses, which by the above Indenture are to be built and John Rowling and Thomas Martin both of Maidstone, Bricklayers are to be employed to lay the bricks of the Almshouses.

If any money remains with his executors from the £1,200, it to be used after payment of his debts, legacies and funeral costs, a sum not exceeding £50 to be paid to Ann Holloway, if the surplus exceeds £50 the balance to his residuary personal estate and to be used for charitable purposes, as his executors think fit.

He appoints Thomas Nightingale, Thomas Baytop, Edward Prentis of Maidstone, Timber Merchant and Ann Maynard a daughter of Richard Maynard of  Cranbrook, Yeoman, (deceased), his executors.

He gives to Thomas Nightingale, £500, to Thomas Baytop and Edward Prentis, £150 each. Also to Edward Prentis 6 acres of land in Boxley, lately purchased from George Cooke, Esquire.

These sums will not be paid if any of them refuse to act regarding his will and the trusts.

He empowers Edward Prentis and Ann Maynard to act in the trusts with the other executors.

To Ann Maynard and her sister, Mary Maynard his house with the [                   ] other dwelling adjoining the north side of Maidstone High Street, occupied by Joseph Durrant. Also his 3  houses on the east side of that street, occupied by Nehemiah Wimble, William Fancet and Thomas Saywell, lately purchased from William Hester, except that part since sold and conveyed to Edward Prentis. Also his house , barn, stable and land in Mersham, occupied by Edward Worger, purchased from Thomas Brewer and Ann his wife and Martha Whitfield, Widow. Also his house  and timber wharf and land of about 10 acres, near the River Medway in Maidstone, occupied by Caleb Jemmett. Also his hop ground and oast house of about 80 acres above the latter and adjoining the highway, occupied by Stephen and Edward Prentis.

The house and timber wharf, purchased from George Cooke, to Ann and Mary Maynard, for ever, equally share. Also to them the cockles, oast hairs and other things about the oast house.

To Ann Maynard, £400, if she is dead, then the £400 to her sister, Mary.

To Mary Maynard, £350, if she is dead, then the £350 to her sister, Ann.

To William Hewer late of Maidstone, now of Margate, Linen Draper, £50

To Robert Beale, Gentleman of Maidstone, £50

To William Kempton of Maidstone, Tallow Chandler, £30

To Ann Harlow of Maidstone, Spinster, £100

To Elizabeth wife of Thomas Nightingale, his cabinet faced with tortoise shell and a needlework picture with a looking glass in the middle, which were his late aunt Henslow's ? Also his escriptor, all china and waxworks.

To Elizabeth Nightingale eldest daughter of Thomas, £100

To John Nightingale, son of Thomas, his small house in West Borough, Maidstone, occupied by John Clatworthy, for ever.

To Judith Edmonds of Maidstone, Spinster, £50

To [            ] Bowler wife of Charles Bowler, late of Lombard Street, Merchant, £50.

To John Bennett late of Maidstone, Shopkeeper, £10

To Mary and Ann Nightingale, daughters of Thomas, £100 each

To Richard Larkin , late apprentice to Richard Hearnden, Blacksmith in Maidstone, £10.

To Morland Beard, son of Abraham Beard, late of Maidstone, Carpenter, £20.

To Thomas Patten, late apprentice to Stephen Wattell of Maidstone, Cordwainer and to Francis Cutbush son of John Cutbush of Maidstone, Locksmith, £5 each.

To Matthew Stacey son of Richard Stacey of Maidstone, Thread Twister, £10.

To Richard Wattell, Junior of Maidstone, Cordwainer, £25.

To the Maidstone Charity School, £20

To the poor of Maidstone who do not receive alms of the parish, £100, distributed at £20 per annum for 5 years after his death, in Winter.

His executors to lay out a sum not exceeding £100 for a monument like that for the late Recorder Dixon and fixed to the pillar next to the place where he will be buried in Maidstone parish church and £10 for a large “handsome” tombstone to be laid down where he has laid the 2 small ones.

He gives to Shadrach Illden of Maidstone, Shopkeeper, £20

To John Tassell of Maidstone, Gardener, £50

To the widow of Samuel Jackson, late of Maidstone, Barber, £10

To Richard Wathurst, Senior, £5

To Stephen Maynard of Gravesend, Joiner, brother of Ann and Mary Maynard, £100 and £150 in trust, for the benefit of his son, Robert.

To William Croft of Battle, Sussex, Bricklayer, £100

To Ann Croft daughter of William, £150.

To Samuel Croft and Mary Whiting, son and daughter of William, £50 each.

To Elizabeth Ashley, wife of Edward Ashley of Holborn, London, Peruke Maker, £50.

To George Cutbush of Maidstone, Tailor, £10

To the widow of Henry Cutbush, late of Maidstone, Locksmith, £10

To Edward Baldock, late of Fant Farm, Maidstone, £50.

To his cousin, Frances, daughter of his cousin, Ann Holloway, £100.

To St Thomas's Hospital, Southwark, £100.

To the Foundling Hospital, Lamb's Conduit Fields, near the City of London, £100.

To William Maynard of Benenden, Farmer, £200.

To Robert Smith of Maidstone, £10.

To [           ] Rogers  of Maidstone, widow daughter of the late Mrs How Gardener, £5.

To Elizabeth Turner daughter of [         ] Turner, Blacksmith, living near the Great Bridge, Maidstone, £10.

To Henry Jefferys of Maidstone, Woollen Draper, £50.

To William Green of Maidstone, Distiller, £10.

To Richard Mussory ?, Senior, of Maidstone, Gentleman, £50

These legacies to be paid 12 months after his death but executors can pay smaller  legacies earlier as they think fit.

To Ann and Mary Maynard, all his clothes and all his late aunt, Ann Henslow's clothes. Also all household linen, equally shared.

Witnesses: James Burr  Joseph Durrant  Samuel Fullagar

Codicil 27th September 1755

By a tripartite Indenture  of 22nd June 1736, he has given £600 South Sea Annuities and £600 New South Sea Annuities, in trust, to buy  a piece of land in Maidstone for building an Almshouse  for 6 poor persons.

He has lately purchased a piece of land from Christopher Harris, near Moat Lane and has erected the Almshouses.

If he dies before conveyance takes effect, he gives the ground  and houses to Ann and Mary Maynard, in trust. They to convey the property to the trustees named in the Indenture.

He has given Stephen Maynard £150 in trust, for his son Robert, he now revokes this and gives the £150 to Ann Maynard, in trust for Robert Maynard.

Rest of will ratified.

Witnesses: Edward Pierce  Samuel Fullagar Christopher Fullagar

Codicil 13th April 1757

He has appointed Thomas Nightingale, Thomas Bayton, Edward Prentis and his servant, Ann Maynard, executors.

Now, Mary Maynard, sister of Ann, to be an additional executor.

He has given Edward Prentis, £150 but now gives him another £300, making his legacy up to £450.

He gives Joseph Durrant of Maidstone, Grocer, £50

The will and first codicil ratified.

Witnesses: Samuel Fullagar  Christopher Fullagar

Proved 27th June 1757

According to  Russell's History of Maidstone, 1881, Hunter's Almshouses were for 6 men and women. From property he left to maintain the Almshouses, including his house in what is now Bank Street, the income was £48 per annum. £2 was set aside for an annual sermon on charity at All Saints, as follows, 25 shillings for the Minister, 10 shillings for the Reader and 5 shillings for the Clerk.

Income in 1838 was £183 16s, from 55 acres at Willesborough, let at £72 12s, per annum, 21 acres at Mersham, let at £18  per annum, his house in Bank Street, let at £57 4s per annum and dividends from investments, £33.

In 1851 6 additional houses were erected by the trustees. The 12 houses were occupied by people aged over 55. Income in 1881 was  about £200, £16 was usually given to each occupant.

The charity has since ceased to function.

HUNTER see HENSLOW

103

Here lieth the Body of
THOMAS JACKSON
who died December the 15th
1796 Aged 72 Years
Also ANN Wife of
Mr JOHN FARMER of London
and Daughter of the above
THOMAS JACKSON
and ELIZABETH his Wife
who died the 30th of July
1797 Aged 29 Years
Mrs ELIZABETH JACKSON
Wife of the above
THOMAS JACKSON
who died the 29th of January
1826 Aged 86 Years

104

[                                   ]
CALEB JEMMETT
died ye 11th of Sept 1734
Aged 23 ? Years
Also one Son
WM. JEMMETT died Feb 4th  1742
Aged [  ] Yrs 6 Ms
ANN ye second Wife of  ye said
CALEB  JEMMETT
died ye 3rd of June 1751
Aged 53 ? Years
[Here lieth ye] Body of the S[       ]
C[            ] who died
D[ecember ?] [            ]4 Aged 64
Years
Also CALEB JEMMETT Son
of the said CALEB and ANN
who died 16th May 1759 Aged [  ]
THOMAS JEMMETT Son of the  said
CALEB and ANN  died at S[t]
Vincent's  in the West Indies in
June 1765 Aged  49 ? Years

105

To the Memory of
Mr EDWARD JOHNSON
who died Aug the 22nd 1741
Aged 68 Years
Also ELIZTH. his Wife died Octor
the 27th  1765 Aged 89 Years
Here also lieth the Body of
JOHN JOHNSON Son of EDWARD
and ELIZTH  JOHNSON who died
the 11th of  September  1771 Aged
69 Years
Also of ELEANOR Wife of
JOHN CROWDER
who died Feby 13th 1835
Aged 77 Years
Also the above named
JOHN CROWDER
who died Sept 26th  1840
Aged 77 Years

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 17th October 1738

Edward Johnson of Maidstone, Cutler

To his wife, Elizabeth, for life, his house occupied by John Bumby in St Andrew's, Canterbury,  the lease of which he purchased from the Dean and Chapter of Canterbury Cathedral.

After his wife's death, the house to his eldest son, John.

Also to his wife, his household goods, plate, ready money, stock in trade and personal estate, she to pay his debts, funeral and probate costs. He appoints her his executor.

Witnesses: William Waller  John Clagget  John Mason

Proved June 28th 1742

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 18th February 1750 (1751)

Elizabeth Johnson of Maidstone, Widow.

Her real and personal estate, goods, chattels, debts, stock in trade, ready money, securities for money and effects, to her only son, John, for ever. He is her executor.

Witnesses: John Clagget  W Waller  W Roffe

Proved 3rd April 1766

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will dated  22nd December 1771 (sic)*

John Johnson of Maidstone, Cutler.

To his nephew, Edward Mortimer, Cutler, now living with him and the lawful issue of his body, his house, in 2 dwellings, in Boxley, occupied by [          ] Cole and [             ] Slater, with an orchard, for ever. In default of such issue, then to the eldest son of his niece, Elizabeth Crowder, wife of John Crowder of Loose, Paper Maker, for ever. In default of a son then to the eldest daughter, for ever.

To his niece, Mary Denne, daughter of his late sister, Elizabeth Farley and the lawful issue of her body, his house in Week Street, Maidstone, occupied by Widow Martin, for ever. In default of heirs, then to the eldest son of of his niece, Ann Harding, wife of Stephen Harding of London, for ever.

To his nephews and nieces, children of his late sisters, Mary Mortimer and Elizabeth Henley, his house, in 2 dwellings at St. Faith's Green, Maidstone, occupied by [           ] Morris and [        ] Bills and his house in Mill Lane, Maidstone, occupied by William Brown, for ever (equally shared ?)

To his niece, Elizabeth Crowder, £20

To his niece, Ann Harding, £20.

To his niece, Mary Denne, £10.

To his brother in law, John Henly of Loose, Paper Maker, £10 for mourning.

To Winifred Farley and Charlotte Farley, daughters of John Farley, £10 each.

To nephew, John Farley, £10 at 21 years of age.

To nephew, William Farley, £10 also at 21 years.

To nephew, John Mortimer, £20, within 4 years after his death, in such parts and manner as his executor, Edward Mortimer thinks fit.

To his niece, Susanna Farley, now living with him, £50, this is owed to him by a bond, with interest due. Also to Susanna Farley, the furniture of his bedroom and his silver plate, except 2 silver tankards.

To niece, Elizabeth Crowder, the largest silver tankard.

To niece, Ann Harding the other silver tankard.

To James Crowder and John Mortimer, all his clothes, equally shared.

To Susanna Farley, £10 for mourning.

Residue of real and personal estate, not yet given, to nephew, Edward Mortimer, for ever, he to pay his debts, legacies, funeral and probate costs..........

To his friends, John Fowler of Maidstone and Joseph Potten of Maidstone, Victualler, 1 guinea each for a ring.

He appoints Edward Mortimer and Susanna Farley executors.

Witnesses: George West  William Renwall ?  William Rosse

Proved 4th October 1771

* I presume this should be 1770 ?

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 24th August 1840

John Crowder of Maidstone, Gentleman. (Paper Maker, see above will)

His debts, funeral and probate costs to be first paid.

He desires to be buried in Maidstone church in the place  purchased by him where his late uncle, John Johnson and his late wife, Eleanor are buried.

He appoints his nephew, John Wenborne, son of his late sister, Harriet Wenborne and Eleanor Chittenden , grand niece of his late wife, who now lives with him, executors.

To Eleanor Chittenden, his house and outbuildings, yard and garden in Maidstone High Street, for ever. Also all his household goods and furniture, plate, except that later mentioned, linen, china, earthenware, glass, books, wine, spirits, beer and liquors and effects. Also his working tools and utensils, absolutely.

To his executors, all his other houses, lands and shares of real estate and leasehold estate, subject to payment of ground rents and observance of covenants, upon trust, to sell and to hold the proceeds upon trust and pay the following legacies.

To his niece, Harriet Brenchley, £50

To his executors, 19 guineas each.

To his sister, Mary Blewitt, Widow, £100

To his grand niece, Harriet Goodman, daughter of Mary Blewitt and William Goodman of Ware Mills near Hertford, Miller, £50.

To his sister, Elizabeth Ansell wife of Jagger Ansell, Cordwainer, £100.

To his nephews, John and William Wenbourne, , sons of his late sister, Harriet Wenbourne, £200 each.

To his late wife's niece, Julia Carman, wife of Robert Carman, 19 guineas.

To his late wife's grand niece, Clarissa Boorman, wife of John Boorman, £10.

To Marella Moore wife of his late wife's nephew, John Crowder (deceased), 19 guineas.

To his brother in law, Stephen Brenchley, £10.

To his nephew, Stephen Brenchley, £100.

to his nephews and niece, Thomas Francis Jones Brenchley, Benjamin Brenchley and  Winifred Diana Brenchley, 19 guineas each.

To the children of his late nephew, Frederick Brenchley, 19 guineas each.

To his niece, Harriet Brenchley, a silver cream pot, 2  silver table spoons, 6 silver tea spoons and pair of sugar tongs.

To his nephew, Stephen Brenchley, his silver watch with chain , seals and appendages.

To his 3 Brenchley nephews, all his clothes, equally shared.

From the residue of the sale, upon trust, £200 to be invested in the Public funds and to pay the dividends towards the maintenance and education of Clarissa Ann Moore and Morella Moore until Clarissa is 21, when the fund will be transferred to her. If she dies before then the fund to go into his residuary personal estate.

The residue of his book debts, mortgages, bills, bonds, notes, money and securities for money, personal estate and effects to his executors, equally shared.

Witnesses: William Sibbald M.D.  William Sedgwick  Charles Topping

Proved 16th October 1840

106

[                                    ]
SAMUEL Son of SAMUEL
FARNCES (sic) JORDAN
died [  ] Nov 1728
Aged 17 Years
SUSANNA JORDAN
Wife of the Revd. T.M.
JORDAN died Oct the
31st 1781 Aged 66 Years
The Revd.
T.M. JORDAN
Rector of Barming
in Kent
and of Iden in Sussex
died Feb the 26th
1780 Aged 72 Years
The Revd RICHARD JORDAN
M.A. Son of the above named
Excellent and Worthy Parents
Vicar of Mountfield in Sussex
and of Hoo St Worburg in Kent
died August 21st 1835
Aged 76 Years

JUDGE see TOMSETT

107

Here are Deposited
the Remains of
ROBERT KENT of Hammersmith
who died the 17th ? [              ]
[                                    ]

I wondered why Robert Kent of Hammersmith was buried at Maidstone. He left no will, unless it was in the Middlesex Courts, his wife, Lucy, did leave a PCC will, (1790) but this contained no clues.

But the will of Eleanor Edwards of Maidstone, Spinster, who died at Hammersmith in 1785 provided the answer. She was the sister of  of Lucy Kent, Widow and most likely died at Lucy's house in Hammersmith.' Lucy was the main legatee of her will and executor.

There is a fine 18th century house on Lower Mall, Hammersmith , on the river front, called Kent House and a family of Kent owned property in Hammersmith. Robert and Lucy Kent owned a Brewery, called Strand Gate and a house called Awdes, perhaps the house Eleanor died in.

It seems that the lower half of Robert Kent's ledger has been cut away and it is likely that the missing section contained Lucy Kent's inscription.

108

In Memory of
ANNA KIGHT who
departed this Life
August the 16th 1789
Aged 50 Years
“[Fare]well vain World
[I] have seen enough of thee,
[I care not] what thou think of me,
[                    ] nor thy frowns I fear,
[           ] my Head lies easy here”
[                         ] GRANSDEN
[                            ] [SE]DGWICK
[                                                 ]

109

GUL. supradieri GUL. LACY
Filius natu maximus
Obiit Maii XVI
Anno Salutis  MDCCXXI
Aetatis XXXV
Likewise ELIZTH. the Wife  of
[the] first named WILLM. LACY who
died Aug 14th 1742 Aged [ ]2
Also ANN the Daughter of
Mr NELLER ALLEN and Wife of
ROBT. LACY who departed Aug 26th 1753 Aged 35
Also Mrs ELIZABETH HOU[   ]
Second Daughter of the said
ROBERT and ANN LACY who died
May the 31st 1767 Age [21] Years
[           ] one Son and [                ]
[                                     ]

LAUNDER see WHETLAND

110

[                                 ]
[          ] SMITH LEWIS
[who died] on the 6th of February 1785
[                 ]
[                         ]
[LEYSO]N LEWIS of East Farleigh
[who died] on the 13th Feby. 1825
Aged 36
[                       ]
[Also] ELIZABETH Mother of the above
                           [ who died] the 6th of Jan 1827                             
Aged 65

This inscription transcript was very confused, so the above is now accurate as  far as the latter two are concerned. I don't know why Leyson Lewis and his mother, Elizabeth are buried at All Saints, apart from what seems to be a pre-existing Lewis grave. The husband of Elizabeth, Leyson, is buried in East Farleigh churchyard, he died in 1824 and his will mentions his daughter Jane, who died in 1816 in America. Leyson Lewis  Senior's brother, George, had emigrated to America and became a wealthy man in New York. He bought a large tract of land in Pennsylvania and engaged Joshua William Alder to survey the land. Joshua later returned to England, where he had been born, to finish his education and met George Lewis's  niece, Jane Lewis and they married. Joshua had studied Surveying and Geology and with the help of Israel Lewis, bother of Leyson Lewis, Junior, developed a glass making venture in Pennsylvania. The glass making was successful but the route to Philadelphia, where the glass would be sold, was very poor and the glass broke before it could reach the city, so the venture was given up. Joshua then tried sheep raising but the sheep all perished in the Winter. The cost to George Lewis for  these doomed enterprises has been estimated at $250,000. Leyson Senior's will tells us that his daughter, Jane was entitled to inherit 10,000 acres of land in America or £3,000 in lieu, I assume under the will of George Lewis. When she died the legacy passed to her brothers, Leyson and Israel. Joshua Alder returned to England and married Jane's sister, Elizabeth. The couple returned to America, where they ended their days, Joshua in 1837 and Elizabeth in 1882.

Source: Book of Biographies of the 17th Congressional District. Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago and Buffalo,New York, 1899, see Wikipedia.

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 23rd October 1824

Leyson Lewis, Esquire of East Farleigh.

He is in ill health.

He appoints his brother, Israel Harris Lewis his executor.

His personal estate to be valued and sold for the benefit of his mother, Elizabeth, except for £100 to each of his sisters, Elizabeth Alder and Phoebe Hodges, as soon as his executor has had valued and disposed of the stock or any part of his farm of Gallants in East Farleigh. He leaves the farm to his brother, Israel, subject to £10 from the profits to be paid to his mother, annually, for life.

Witnesses: Julius J. Shepherd  George Prentis  George Clout

Proved 3rd March 1825

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 20th October 1825

Elizabeth Lewis, Widow of Leyson Lewis, Senior, Esquire.

Her debts, funeral and probate costs to be first paid.

Her plate, linen and clothes to her daughters, Elizabeth Alder and Phoebe Hodges, equally shared.

To her son, Israel Harris Lewis and nephews, George and Charles Martineau of Stockwell Common, Sugar Bakers  (Sugar Refiners in Leyson Senior's will) and Robert Cooper of Maidstone, Gentleman, all her goods, chattels, ready money, debts, personal estate and effects, upon trust, to sell, (allowing her daughters to buy some of her books, china and furniture, the net proceeds to be invested in Government Bonds or Real securities, upon trust.

One half of the income to daughter Elizabeth, for life, for her own independent use and after her death, upon trust, to transfer the fund to her children at 21 yeas of age or day of marriage for girls, if earlier.

The other half of the income to daughter, Phoebe, for life, after her her death the fund to be transferred to her children, as before.

If either daughter dies leaving no children, then the whole income to the survivor. If both daughters die leaving no children, the rust funds to her son Israel.

She appoints son Israel, George and Charles Martineau and Robert Cooper, executors and give each of them 5 guineas each for their troubles as executors and trustees.

Witnesses: Henry Prentis, Attorney at Law, Rochester  Ann Martineau, Stockwell Common, Surrey.

Proved 23rd January 1827 Power reserved to Robert Cooper and George Martineau

111

Here lyeth ye Body of
LUCY LINFIELD
who departed this Life
17th day of January
1732
in the 84th Year
of her Age
[Here] lyeth the Body of
M[ ] LUCY ? DUR[     ]
of Maidstone
[         ]0 October 17[ ]0

LOVETT see PEMBLE

MAIWELL see MAY

112

Here lyeth Interred the Body
of EDWARD MAPLESDEN Gent Son
of  JOHN MAPLESDEN Gent of this
Towne  He departed this Life  ye
8th day of  April Ano Dom 1686 Aged
49Yeares  he left issue  one Daughter
and 3 Sonnes  vid ELLEN,  JOHN
EDWARD & HENRY
JOHN MAPLESDEN Gent 1708
Also ye Body of ELIZ[ABETH] [    [EAY ?
Died 1745

113

[ Beneath this] ? Stone [lie the]
 [Remains] ? of JANE
MARES  who departed [this Life]
the 1st day of October  [    ]
Aged 28 Years
Leaving issue  two Sons  and two
Daughters  (viz)
WILLIAM, MARY-JANE, ELLEN
and JOHN-HENRY
Also  CHARLES MARES Gent
who departed this Life the 5th day of
February 1821 Aged 91 Years
Also JOHN MARES  Esq
who died May 9th  18[5]0 Aged 67 Years
Also WM. MARES Son of the above
JOHN MARES
who died J[     ] 2[ ] 1816
Aged [  ] Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 19th January 1816

Charles Mares of Maidstone, Gentleman.

First his debts, funeral and probate costs to be paid.

To his daughters, Ann and Mary Mares, £500 each.

He has lent his son, John £1,100, he now releases to John, £400, so he is now only accountable for £700. He has lent his son, Charles, £600, he now releases to Charles, £300. The £600 was for the purchase of his office and premises in Rose Yard, Maidstone but Charles has not given any security for this sum, so far and he must pay the balance of £300 to his father's executors.

After the payment of the £500 legacies to his daughters and the payment of £700 and £300  by his sons, he gives the annual interest of the £700 and £300, which remains due from his sons, his money, securities for money, house furniture, plate, linen and china, to his wife, Ann for life. Also to his wife, all his freehold estate in Maidstone or elsewhere, for life. After her death, his real estate to George Catt, Senior of Detling, Farmer, upon trust, and then to his son, John Mares, for ever.

George Catt is to raise, out of the real estate, £1,000 to pay his daughters, £500 each in addition to the 2 sums of £500 already bequeathed.

If either of his daughters die before his wife,, leaving lawful issue, her share to that child or children at 21 years, during minority interest at 5% towards maintenance and education.

He gives £5 each to his grandchildren, John, Ann, Elizabeth, Mary,    ?     and Henry Cutbush, living at time of his wife's death.

After his wife's death, he gives his furniture, plate, linen and china and £700 and £300 to son John,  absolutely. If John dies before his mother then this bequest to his lawful children, if any. If he leaves no children, then to his sisters Ann and Mary.

He appoints his wife, Ann and son John his executors.

Witnesses: Henry Godden of Maidstone, Druggist  Stephen Lamprey, Solicitor of Maidstone  W.H. Lane, his Clerk.

Proved 18th August 1821

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 12th June 1848

John Mares of Linfield House, Boxley and Maidstone, Chemist and Druggist.

He appoints his brother in law, Henry Godden, friend, Robert Tassell and his son, John Henry Mares, executors.

To Henry Godden and Robert Tassell, 19 guineas each as a token of his regard and esteem.

He ratifies the Marriage Settlement made on his marriage with his late wife.

He gives his sister, Ann Mares, such part of his furniture to the value of £20 as she thinks proper to take.

To his sister, Mary Godden, wife of Henry Godden, the picture of a Tiger which she made.

To his sister, Ann, an annuity of £30 charged on his house in Bank Street, Maidstone, occupied by Charles Baker and others.

His house  and premises in Union Street, Maidstone, occupied by James Foord and his houses and land in Bearstead, now or late occupied by Joy William Streatfield and Francis Troysden, to his executors and trustees to sell and share the net proceeds between his children, John Henry, Ellen Mares and Mary Jane, wife of Henry Winkles Joy, equally shared.

His money, securities for money, personal estate and effects, to his trustees, to sell that not consisting of money and pay his debts, funeral and probate costs and share the residue among his children, equally. If any of them are indebted to him that debts to be shared by them all and deducted from their legacies.

Witnesses: Charles Hoar, Solicitor, Maidstone  Samuel Maddox, his Clerk.

Proved 6th June 1850

114

[                            ]
THOMAS MARSHALL
Thrice Mayor  of this
Town who departed
this Life February ye 19th 17[  ]
Aged 80 Years
Left issue one Son
Here
Lyeth also Interr'd
the Body of ELIZABETH
MARSHALL  second Wife of ye aforesaid
THOMAS MARSHALL
who departed this Life
April ye 26th 1714 Aged
82 Years

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 16th October 1713

Elizabeth Marshall of Maidstone, Relict of Thomas Marshall, late of Maidstone, Brazier.

She is aged and infirm and desires that 6 people hold up her pall, each of the to have a ring and pair of gloves. Her debts and funeral costs to be first paid.

To John Groombridge of Otham, Blacksmith, £5

To Daniel Whetland of Maidstone, Thread Twister and Sarah his wife, £5 each, to their children, Thomas, Othaham and Sarah, 10 shillings each.

To Sarah Barnet, Widow, £5

To Robert Hooker of Maidstone, 20 shillings and to Mary his wife, £5 and to their daughter, Mary, £1.

To Elizabeth Wybrow, wife of Robert Wybrow, £5.

To Susan Pool, wife of John Pool of Maidstone, £5.

To Thomas Marshall of Maidstone, £5

To Elizabeth Walker of Maidstone, £1

To Susanna Harris of Maidstone, £1

To Thomas Howard of Maidstone, £5.

To Margaret Howard Spinster, £5.

To John Howard of Woolwich and his wife, a ring each.

To Susannah daughter of Humphrey Howard and her husband, a ring each.

To Elizabeth Hodges wife of John Hodges of Wrotham, Surgeon, 10 shillings.

To Mary wife of [           ] Lomas of Est Malling, £1.

To [          ] Batt and Elizabeth his wife, a ring each.

To [              ] Baker of Woolwich and Sarah his wife, a ring each.

To Sarah Barnet, Susan Pool, Mary Hooker and Elizabeth Groombridge wife of John Groombridge  of Otham, all of her clothes, equally shared between them by Sarah Whetland.

Residue of personal estate, goods and chattels to her kinsmen, Daniel Whetland and John Groombridge, whom she appoints her executors. They to give 40 shillings to poor widows of Maidstone.

Witnesses: Alexander Weller  Robert Dixon  John Ebbs

Proved 8th May 1714

115

In this Vault are Interred
the Hon JOHN MARSHAM
(third Son of the Right Hon ROBERT
Lord Romney & PRISCILLA Lady Romney
who was born Aug 26th  1748
and died Feb 14th 1749/50
The Hon HARRIOT MARSHAM
(their  fourth Daughter)
who was born May 28th  1760
and died Nov 5th 1762
The Hon ROBERT PYM MARSHAM
(their eldest Son)
who was born April 28th  1743
and died Nov 28th  1762
The Hon SHOVELL MARSHAM
(their fourth Son)
who was born Oct 21st 1757
and died Feb 9th 1766
The Right Hon PRICILLA Lady
Romney died Feb 27th 1771 in the
47th  Year of her Age
The Right Hon ROBT. Lord Romney
died at the Mote November  the 16th
1793 in the 82nd Year of his Age

116

[                             ]
WILLIAM MARSHAM
born Oct 10th 1801
died Feb 1802
EMMA MARSHAM
born March 1[ ] 1792
died July 6th 1808

117

[                             ]
JOHANNIS MASON
[        ] 26th die [            ]
Anno [              ]
Aetatis  [              ]
[               ] 16[80]
[                         ]
[       ] Filia  [          ]
[       ] obiit [       ]
Anno Aetatis 25
[              ] 16[ ]7
pradicti JOHANNIS
obiit  die Aprilis
Anno Aetatis  67
Salutis 1[ ]0
[            ] libiios
[             ] JOHANNEI
S[A]RA[H] NATHANIELLM

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will (Not Dated ?)

John Mason of Maidstone, Timber Merchant.

He is weak in body.

To his sons, Stephen and Sylvan, 5 shillings each, to son, John £700

To his 2 daughters, Sarah and Elizabeth Mason, £500 each at 24 years of age or day of marriage if earlier. To his daughter, Mary Mason, £500 at 24 years or day of marriage.

To his maid servant with him at time of his death, 20 shillings.

To his son, Nathaniel, his house and land at Magginford in Maidstone for 89 years if Nathaniel lives so long. After his death, or at the end of 89 years,  to the heirs of his body for ever.

To his son Joseph, his several pieces of land in Boxley, lately purchased from Hayward Beale.

His wife, Sarah, to receive rents from the land bequeathed to their son Joseph until Joseph is 21, to be used for his education. If Joseph dies before he is 21, then the land given to him goes to son John, for ever.

Also to his wife, his house in the High Street in Maidstone, where they now live and after her death to his son Joseph for ever. If Joseph dies under 21 the house to son John, for ever.

All his other real estate in Kent to his wife, for ever. Money due to him from the Crown for the last 2 years, to his wife...........

To his friend, Robert Saunders the Younger of Maidstone, Gentleman, £5

He appoints his wife his executor and gives her all his goods, chattels, cattle, household stuff, moveables and personal estate, she paying his debts, funeral costs and legacies.

Witnesses: George Maplesden  William Finch  Robert Saunders, Junior  Edward Deare

Proved 1st June 1680

118

[ Near to this] Stone
on the right hand
lie the Remains  of
JOHN MASON Gent
he died the Seventeenth  day
of October  one Thousand
Seven Hundred  and Fifty
Aged XLIVX ?
Under this Stone  lieth
the Body of Mrs MARY MASON
Relict of the above JOHN MASON Gent
who died March 16th  [1765]
Aged Sixty One Years  

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 5th December 1749

John Mason of Maidstone.

To his wife, Mary his house known by the sign  of the Crown and Sceptre and several houses  near or adjoining, near the Great Bridge, Maidstone. Also his house near the Little Bridge, Maidstone. Also his shares of tithes from certain premises in Yaldham at Wrotham and his share of a house at Smarden and 4 ½  acres planted with hops at the upper end of Week Street, Maidstone, late occupied by James Appleton, for her lifetime and after her death, to his son John, for ever.

To his son, Nash, a share of all houses and land which testator became entitled to  by a settlement made on the marriage  of his late mother, Anna Goodman, which on her death came to him. Also to Nash, his farm at Peckham and adjoining woodland. His executor can sell or mortgage such parts during his infancy, as she thinks fit to raise enough money to place him in a trade  or employment as she thinks fit.

To his daughter, Anna Mason, £2,000 at 21 years of age.

If any of his children die  under 21 years, their share to be equally divided among the survivors.

His debts, funeral and probate costs to be paid from his personal estate, if that is not sufficient, (which is unlikely) the shortfall to come from his real estate.

He appoints his wife guardian  of his minor children. She can lease any of his real estate for any number of years as she thinks fit.

To his mother in law, Mary Callant, (   ?   ) Reeves, Esquire, his brother in law, his sister, his wife and brother, Nash, 15 guineas each for mourning.

Rest and residue of his personal estate to his wife, she is his sole executor.

Witnesses: Robert Chester, Chancery Office  Henry Jenkins, Boswell Court  Robert Cowley, St. Clement's Churchyard.

Proved 25th October 1750

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 25th January 1764

Mary Mason of Maidstone, Widow.  

To her son, Nash Mason of Maidstone, Esquire, her house , oast house, buildings, yard and garden in West Borough, Maidstone, occupied by  John Baker, also her parcel of land in Boxley, late the estate of her late mother, Mary Callant, also  a house and lands  in Loose, East Farleigh and Maidstone, occupied by Edward Merralls, also a house, oast house and stables near Pudding Lane, Maidstone, also  a house, oast house , outhouse and several pieces of land in Yalding and Brenchley, occupied by  Thomas Fielder , these properties were late the estate of her mother, Mary Callant.

Also to son, Nash, her 3 houses adjoining each other, behind Middle Row, Maidstone, occupied by John Godden, Lucy Capon and Elizabeth Ilden, executor of Shadrach  Ilden, her late husband. Also the coach house and stable in the yard which was converted by her late husband, John Mason, into 3 houses behind and adjoining the above 3 houses, now occupied by Daniel Kirby, Mary Kirby, his wife, and Thomas Jeffery, also a house with barn, stable and several pieces of land, of [        ] acres in Stockbury, occupied by John York, also 10 acres of meadow in Boughton under Blean, occupied by John Blaxland. The latter was formerly the property of her late father, John Callant, Gentleman.

Also to son Nash, her house and garden in Stone Street, Maidstone in her occupation, also her house and oast house on the north side of Maidstone High Street, near the Great Conduit, divided into 3 houses, 2 occupied by Isaac Dawson, the other by Mary Mortimer.

Also to son Nash, her house known by the sign of the Crown and Sceptre, with part of a chamber and garret over it, purchased from Richard Mussory and several houses near or adjoining, near the Great Bridge in Maidstone, occupied by Edward Ellis, also 2 houses near the Little Bridge in Maidstone, occupied by William Read and John Griffiths, also  4 acres of land ½ planted with hops at the upper end of Week Street, Maidstone, late occupied by James Appleton, now by Francis Hall, also her ½ part of a house called the Huntsman at Maryland Pound in Boxley, with a garden and little orchard, also an orchard opposite now occupied by George May and John Brenchley, as executors of Joseph Smalwell, late of Maidstone, Brewer, also her ½ of a house, barn, stable and land of 49 acres in Lenham and Boughton Malherbe, occupied by Thomas Smith, also her ½ of a barn and 2 pieces of land on the side of a lane leading to Kingsnorth Wood and 5 pieces of land on the other side of the lane  of about 20 acres at Ulcombe, occupied by John Collins.

Also to son Nash, her ½ of house and farm called Berken's ? Hall at Smarden and land near of about  21 acres occupied by Stephen and Henry Otway, also her ½ of a barn  and 16 acres in Smarden, occupied by John Wooley, also her ½  of 14 pieces of land, about 44 acres and a barn, pound and cow stall in Smarden, occupied by Richard Munn.

She is entitled by a lease from William Turner Esquire for 99 years to a house in Knight Rider Street, Maidstone, part of which is a coach house and stable erected by her late husband. She is also entitled under a lease granted by the Dean and Chapter of Rochester Cathedral, dated 30th November 1759, with a term of 21 years to run, at 4 shillings per annum and 1 capon, to a share of the tithes  from property in Yaldham at Wrotham and also entitled by a lease from the Dean and Chapter of Canterbury, dated 22nd November 1758, with 21 years to run, at 35 shillings per annum, of Woddington or Woddin Wood  in Hollingbourne of about 35 acres. She gives these to her son Nash for the rest of the term left.

To her daughter Anne, wife of Anthony Blower, of Maidstone, Gentleman, 2 houses in Middle Row, Maidstone, occupied by Mary Gravett, Widow and John Bennett, absolutely.

To her brother in law, Nash Mason, Esquire of Clifford Street, Buckington Gardens, London, 20 guineas.

To Mary Blower, daughter of Anthony and Anne, £20.

To her Servant Maid, Mary Chown, if still with her at her death, £5.

Rest and residue of real and personal estate, after her debts, funeral costs and legacies are paid, to her son, Nash, absolutely, Nash is her executor.

Witnesses: Samuel Stevenson  John Kent  Edward Argles, Junior

Proved 17th April 1765

119

In Memory of ELIZABETH
the Wife of Mr GEORGE MAY
eldest Daughter of  JOSEPH
MAIWELL who departed
this Life  the 10th March 1719
Aged 25 Years
Also MARY his second Wife
Daughter of the Revd. Mr BURGH
departed this Life  Novr. 1760
Likewise
Three of their Children
SUSANNA  JOSEPH  SUSANNA
who died in their Infancy
Here also are inlaid
3 Children of Mr THO DAY
Surgeon and ELIZH. His Wife
only surviving Daughter of
Mr GEORGE and MARY MAY
who died in their Infancy
Likewise
THOMAS DAY Esquire M.D.
Who died January the 20th 1818
Aged 68 Years
Also Mrs ELIZABETH DAY
Widow of the above
THOMAS DAY Esq
died the 21st May 1832
Aged 77 Years
ELIZA their Daur died 11th March 1847
MARY Wife of Cap SKINNER R.M.
Died the 20th of June 1848

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 27th August 1810

Thomas Day of Maidstone, Doctor of Physic.

He appoints George May of Hearne, Esquire, his friend Robert Stone of Loddington, Gentleman and his son John Day of Maidstone, Surgeon, executors. They to invest money from his personal estate to purchase £1,000 of stock in the 3% Consolidated Bank Annuities, upon trust and pay his sister, Elizabeth Robinson, wife of Thomas Robinson of Trottiscliffe, Farmer, the income from the stock for life. After her death the stock to go into his residuary personal estate.

To his executors, his real estate, upon trust, to sell and invest the net proceeds in Real or Government securities and pay his wife, Elizabeth the income  from the investments, for life. After her death the stocks to go into his residuary personal estate.

To George May and Robert Stone, £50 each for their care and trouble  as his executors.

Also to his wife, for life, so much of his household goods and furniture as she thinks fir for her own use.

Subject to the payment of his debts, funeral and probate costs, his goods, chattels, stock and husbandry tackle, cattle, money, securities for money, personal estate and effects to his executors, upon trust, to sell that not consisting of money. They to invest the net proceeds, together with the residue of his personal estate in good Real or Government securities. His wife to receive the income for life. After her death, he gives his daughter, Emily wife of the Reverend Thomas Pearce, £1,000, (of securities ?), she has received £500 upon her marriage.

To 4 of his children, Mary, Elizabeth, Susanna and Thomas Day, £1,500 each at 21 years of age, absolutely.

The rest and residue of his money to his 6 children, John, Thomas, Emily Pearce, Mary, Elizabeth and Susanna Day, equally shared at 21 years of age, absolutely. During their minorities, interest to go towards their maintenance and education.

Son John has not received the same as his siblings because he has taken him into his business as his partner and he can live comfortably and independently.

Witnesses: Eliza S Lamprey  Thomas Burr  Stephen Lamprey

Codicil 5th January 1811

He alters the bequest to his daughter, Emily so that if she dies leaving no lawful issue, the £1,000 and a sixth of his residual money to be equally shared by her siblings,  Her husband Thomas Pearce to have no claim to this. He ratifies rest of the will.

Witnesses: Eliza S Lamprey  Stephen Lamprey  Stephen Crawle

Proved 8th May 1818

MAYNARD see HENSLOW

120

[                               ]
WILLIAM Son of WILLIAM
and JANE MERCER died [       ]
the Year 1731 Aged [  ] Years
Also the said JANE MERCER
died the  Twenty Eight  of [         ]
1771 Aged 52
JANE MERCER Daughter
of the above died  the 12th of May
1783
WILLIAM MERCER Esq
died the 14th March 1786
Aged 71 Years
PEGGY BLAKE Daug
of the above WILLIAM
and JANE MERCER died
the 24th of Oct 1787 Age 71 ?
Also of JOHN BLAKE Esq
Jurat of this Corporation
who died  on the 22nd day of January
1814 Aged 63 Years

This inscription is unusual, Peggy was the wife of John Blake but this is not stated, was there not enough room on the ledger ? Note that the age difference between Peggy and John is considerable

at 26 years and that Peggy married very late in life, (see her father's will, below).

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 15th June 1781

William Mercer of Maidstone, Wine Merchant.

To Jane and Peggy Mercer, his daughters, all of his real estate, for ever.

After payment of his debts, legacies, funeral and probate costs, the residue of his estate, goods, chattels, stocks, money, securities for money, personal estate and effects, to his daughters, Jane and Peggy, equally shared; they are his executors.

Witnesses: Thomas Durrant Punnett  George Burr  John Corrall

Proved 22nd April 1786. Granted to Peggy Mercer, Jane Mercer having died.

Notes in the Margin

19th November 1787

The will was not administered by Peggy Blake, (formerly Mercer). Administration granted to John Blake, her husband and her administrator.

4th April 1834

The will was administered by John Blake. Administration now granted to William Richard Morris of To??th ? Street, Finsbury Square, Middlesex. Gentleman, ???? [on] behalf of Samuel Jones , John Jones, Thomas Jones, Lewis Jones, Elizabeth Smith, formerly Jones , wife of Charles Smith, Charles Smith and Jane Cloak, formerly Jones, wife of John Cloak. John Cloak limited …........ (obscure)

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 11th June 1807

John Blake of Maidstone, Wine Merchant.

His debts, funeral and probate costs to be first paid.

He appoints his friends,Joseph Martin of Maidstone, Tailor and Draper and William Archer of Maidstone, Corn Factor, his executors.

He desires to be buried in Maidstone Church in the grave where his wife, Peggy is buried or as near as possible. Messrs James Poole and Son of Maidstone are to conduct his funeral, decently but not costly.

To his executors, £30 each for mourning and as a token of his friendship and esteem.

To all the Jurats of the Corporation living at the time of his death, a gold mourning ring.

The rest and residue of his money and securities for money, leases and leasehold premises, mortgages, bills, bonds, notes book debts, goods, chattels, effects and personal estate to his executors, upon trust. They to sell that not consisting of money or securities and invest the proceeds in Public Funds  or in Real Securities, upon trust and transfer the stocks to his grand nephews and grand niece, John and Charles Bailey and Peggy Bailey (children of his late niece, Elizabeth Bailey) at their respective ages of 21, equally shared, with the benefit of survivorship in equal shares. Until they are 21, interest to go toward their maintenance and education. If they die under 21, leaving no children, then the stocks to his next of kin, according to the law of intestacy............

Witnesses: John Laud  Charles Topping

Proved 7th April 1814

Administration granted to Christopher Smith, Esquire, a creditor by bond. The executors have renounced execution of the will. William Bailey, next of kin and uncle and guardian of the above Bailey children, all minors, has also renounced executor-ship.

Note in the Margin, 21st June 1836

The will was not administered by Christopher Smith. Administration granted to Sebastian Smith, Esquire, an executor of Christopher Smith.

MINGAY see CARTER

MOIR see GODFREY

MONCKTON see SWINOCK

121

In Memory of JNO. MORDEN Senr Timber March
died the 14th of Sept. 1739 Aged  58 Years
Also CICELY his Wife Daughr of
THOS and CICELY FLETCHER Gent
died the 17th of Novr. 1727 Aged 44 Years
SARAH their Daughr died 9th May 1725 Aged 6 Years
MARGT. Wife of JNO MORDEN Jun
died the 20th Sept 1738 Aged 36 Years
EVAN  their Son died the 28th Decr. 1738 Aged 4 Months
Also Four Sons and One Daughr of
JNO and ANN MORDEN his second Wife
JNO died Novr 1746 Aged 3 Years 5 Months
WILLM died 19th July 1745 Aged 2 Weeks
ANN died 20th Augt 1746 Aged 1 Weeke
JNO died 22nd Novr 1749 Aged 7 Months
FRANCIS died 16th Jany 1754 Aged 5 Weekes

MORGAN see WICKING

122

Underneath
this Stone are Deposited
the Remains of MARY
the Beloved Wife of Major
THOMAS HENRY MORRICE K.H.
(of Penenden Heath Cottage in this
Parish) who departed this Life
the 5th March 1838  in the
56th Year of her Age
Also the above named
Major THOMAS HENRY MORRICE
K.H
died Nov 5th 1849

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 26th July 1849

Thomas Henry Morice of Maidstone, Knight of the Royal Hanoverian Gruelphia Order and Major in H.M. Army.

He desires to be buried in the vault where his late wife is buried in All Saints, Maidstone.

His debts, funeral  and probate costs and legacies to be paid as  soon as possible.

To his cousin, Rev Henry Morice, Vicar of Ashwell, Hertfordshire, £100 and to each of his children, Henry William, Frances Dorothy, Elizabeth Ann, Sophia Octavia and Williamina Hebe Byng, wife of Rev John Byng, £100.

To Ann Lychgee sister of his late friend, Joseph Lychgee, of Essex Street, Strand, £50.

To Ann Valentine wife of William John Valentine of High Street, Maidstone, £100, independent of her present or any future  husband. Also to an annuity of £60 for life.

To his godson, John Meritta Byng, son of John Byng all of his shares in the Globe Fire Insurance Office but if he dies in testator's lifetime, then the shares to be equally shared by his siblings.

To his god daughter, Isabella Ann Grant, daughter of George Grant of Cork Street, Burlington Gardens, Esquire, £50

To his cousin, Millicent Blood, wife of Fitzgerald Blood of Ballykilly ?, County Clare, Ireland, Esquire, £100.

To Amelia Griffin, his laundress, wife of John Griffin of Maidstone, £30.

Residue of his personal estate to Mary Morice, daughter of Henry Morice. He appoints Henry Morice and John Byng as his executors..

Witnesses: (Dark and obscure)...... , Charles James Facho ? , both of 13 John Street.......  ( Dark)

Codicil 1st November 1849

He has given Ann Valentine, £100 and an annuity of £60 for life. He now increases the annuity to £70. Also to her, his household goods and furniture, bed and table linen in his house at Maidstone. Rest of will ratified.

Witnesses: Benjamin Ruck, Senior, Builder of Week Street, Maidstone  Benjamin Ruck, Junior, Builder of Week Street, Maidstone.

Proved 26th November 1849

123

In [Memory of]
Mrs ANN MORTIMER
the Wife of
Mr JOHN MORTIMER
died Sept 9th 1823
Aged 67 ? Years
Left no issue
Also JOHN Son of
JOHN & MARIA MORTIMER
who died Nov 28th 1834
Aged 9 Months and 8 Days
Also the above JOHN  MORTIMER
 who died Oct 13th ? 1842
Aged 71 Years

MULLINS see WOOTON

124

Here Lieth the Body of
MARY Wife of
FRANCIS MURIELL Clerk
who died ye 4th of May 1736
in the 52nd Year of her Age
Here also lie the Bodies of
FRANCIS & MARY Children of ye said
FRANCIS & MARY MURIELL
Also WILL. DARBY  Clerk
Son of MARY MURIELL
with these lieth the Body of
FRANCIS MURIELL  Clerk
Husband of the said
MARY MURIELL
who died 5th of July 1750
Likewise the Body of Mr FRANCIS
MURIELL Son of the said FRANCIS &
MARY MURIELL who died April ye 5th
1757

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 2nd April 1750

Rev. Francis Muriell of Maidstine.

To his son Francis, £100.

He has experienced the greatest fidelity and care of Mrs Sarah Stevenson. She lived with him and his wife for many years and since his wife's death, she has continued to live with him, assisting in the management of his affairs. He has received a sum of money from her, for the benefit of his son Francis, so he now gives her, after his debts and funeral costs are paid, the residue of his ready money, bonds, notes, goods and personal estate, for her lifetime. She can receive any money due on bonds or notes or from Government Bonds, on condition that she does not marry and does not give anyone money, new clothes or goods amounting to over £30 in any one year.

She is to give £12 per annum to his sister, Martha Muriell during the lifetime of Sarah Stevenson, if she lives so long. Also on the condition that Sarah Stevenson, within 6 months of his death, in the presence of Lord Romney or the Rev Samuel Weller or both of them, signs a deed or deeds binding her to give to his son, Francis, all the real and personal estate that she dies possessed of, so that Francis can take possession from her death.

Son Francis can live with Sarah Stevenson without paying  any charges.

If Sarah refuses any of these conditions, he gives her £600, to be paid by son Francis and his personal estate which then will be in Sarah Stevenson's possession but Francis can live with Sarah Stevenson, if he finds it suitable.

Sarah Stevenson is his sole executor.

Witnesses: Samuel Weller  Sarah King  Jonathan Welch

Proved 9th October 1750

125

[                                 ]
JOHANNES NASH
[         ] erosus [           ]
[      ]inis
Obit  [            ]
Novembris
MDCCXVI[II]
[Aetat]is LXX
[                      ]
      [Further English Inscription Illegible]  

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 11th August 1717

John Nash, Gentleman.

He is weak in body.

He leaves £500 to purchase  a freehold estate, “of inheritance”, for Anna his wife, for the term of 99 years. This to be held upon trust by his friends, John Denton and Jonathan Ellis, for the life of his wife, she to take the rents and profits.

After her death, in trust for the use of his grandson, John Mason, for his lifetime, he to receive rents and profits.

After his death, then to John Mason's first son, lawfully begotten, in default, then to the 2nd, 3rd and so on, in priority of birth. In default, then to John Mason's daughters. In default, then to his grandson, Nash Mason and his lawful heirs. In default, then to his grand daughters, Anna and Jane Mason and their lawful heirs. In default, then to his own right heirs, under the laws of intestacy.

To his daughter, Anna Goodman, 20 shillings for a mourning ring.

All his real estate to his wife, for ever.

Residue  of goods, chattels and personal estate, after his debts, legacies  and funeral costs are paid, to his wife, she is his sole executor.

Witnesses: D. Fuller  Henry Dixon  Charles Huntly  Jane Huntly

Proved 9th May 1719

126

Here Lyeth [      ]
JOHAN[              ]
[                            ]
of Febru[ary] [            ]
The [               ]
Left [                      ]
[                        ]
HENRY [                 ]
ye Body of MARY Wife
of M[    ] NEWINGTON
who died May ye 6th
1717 Aged 66
GEORGE POST died Oct [       ]
1727 Aged 51 Years
JOHN POST of Chatham died
Oct ye 1[ ] 1727 Aged 30 Years
JOHN NASH POST died April
ye 27th 17[  ] Aged [ ] Months
ELIZ POST [Wife of] the above
GEO POST [died] [            ] 27th 1740
Aged [  ]

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 8th October 1727

John Post of Chatham, Upholder. (Upholsterer)

He is weak in body.

He desires to be buried in Maidstone parish church.

To his only son, John Nash Post, his farm house, barn, stables, outhouses, yards, garden, orchards, land and woods of about 127 acres in Marden, occupied by Edward Moon, for ever.

Also to son John, his 2 small houses with gardens and orchards in Marden, occupied by [       ] Nash and [               ]; also all his reversion in a house known by the sign of the Cock, in East Lane, Maidstone, occupied by William Baker, for ever. If son John dies before he is 21, then the properties to testator's 2 brothers, William and George and his sister, Martha, for ever, equally shared.

To his brother in law, Duke Mawle, who lives with him, £10 towards putting him out apprentice.

To his brothers in law, John Joseph Mawle and Duke Mawle, all his woollen clothes, equally shared.

To his mother Elizabeth Post, his late wife's clothes.

Residue of ready money, money out at interest or due to him on bills, bonds, mortgages, judgements, debts, credits, rings, plate, linen, woollen, bedding, pewter, brass, copper, household stuff, goods, chattels and personal estate, after his debts, legacies, funeral and probate costs are paid, to his son John at 21 years of age. If he dies under 21, then to testator's brothers and sister, equally shared.

He appoints his brother, William and his uncle William Crittenden of Maidstone, Grocer, executors and guardians of his son John, responsible for his care and education.

Witnesses: Charles Smith  Thomas Johnson  William Holmden

Proved 6th November 1727

NIGHTINGALE see BAXTER

127

Here's Interr'd ye
Body of JOHN OARE
(Fuller) who died Dec ye 22nd
1715 Aged 42 Years
Left surviving one Son
JOHN
MARY, CHARLES & SAMUEL
Deceased
Here also lyeth  the Body of
ELIZABETH Wife of ye said
JOHN OARE
who departed this Life ye 17th
day of November 1720
Aged 48 Years
Likewise the Body of the Rev
JOHN OARE Son of the said
JOHN & ELIZ OARE who died
the 26th of April 1757 Aged 49 Years

128

In Memory of
MARY
Wife of WILLIAM OKIE ?
Of this Town
who died
Feb 24th 183[ ]
Aged 32 Years

129

Here Lyeth Interred
ye Body of ALEXANDER
OSBORNE Gent one of
ye Jurats  & Thrice
Mayor of this  Town
who departed this
Life 2nd Jan 1717* Aged
71 Years
Also the Body of SUSANNA OSBORNE
Daughter of the above said
ALEXANDER OSBORNE
who departed this Life Jan ye 13th
1725* Aged 48 Years
Also ye Body of  Mrs CATHERINE
OSBORNE Daughter of ALEXANDER
& MARY OSBORNE  who died June
ye 5th  1744 Aged 60 Years

* 1718 and 1726 in the Modern Calendar

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 23rd December 1717

The copy of this will is blurred and not very easy to read.

Alexander Osborne of Maidstone, Mercer.

To his son, Edward, for ever, his house and land at Flishinghurst in Cranbrook, occupied by [        ] Browne.

To his wife, Mary, his house and land at Rat???, Sussex alias Burlhall Land, occupied by Abraham Steire ?, for her lifetime and after her death, to his daughter, Susan Osborne, for ever.

He gives £100 to son Edward, to be paid to daughter, Susanna, as he owes it to her and £50 to be paid to daughter, Katherine Osborne, this to come out of land bequeathed to Edward.

The land left to Edward not for the benefit of Edward's wife but for Edward and daughter, Susanna, equally shared ? Not to exceed £200 per annum, for the better advantage of the tenant using the land ?

To his daughter, Katherine, a feather bed and bolster and 2 feather pillows, she to take her share of the beds, 2 silver spoons marked A. O., which are usually locked up ?

To son Edward, his silver watch.

Daughter, Susanna, “to peacefully and quietly” enjoy the shop they now (occupy) ?, during the term of his lease, without molestation from son Edward, and use of his effects, real and personal, not before bequeathed, to son Edward and daughter, Susanna, equally shared.

Son and daughter, Edward and Susanna are his executors.

Witnesses:William Greenaway  Samuel Osborne  John Blunt

Proved 5th March 1717 (1718)

130

Here lieth the Body of  STEPHEN PAGE
who died the 21st of April 1730 in the 73rd Year of his Age
STEPHEN PAGE Esq Son of the above
died January the 14th 1777 Aged 85 Years
JOHN SEAGER Esq Obt October the 16th 1800 Ae[tatis][   ]

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 1st December 1729

Stephen Page of Maidstone, Gentleman.

He has palsy.

To his wife, £1,000, provided she releases to his son and his heirs and executors, all her Dower Thirds, by Common Law or the Custom of Kent, in his estate, within 3 months after his death but not otherwise. Also to his wife, all household goods and furniture in his house.

To his daughter, Susan Page, an annuity of £40, charged on his real estate at Egerton and Charing, occupied by Stephen Richard, John Robinson, Robert Wiles and Justinian Cooper, for her lifetime.

If his daughter marries and has lawful children, he gives the above real estate, after her death, to George Post of Maidstone, Distiller, upon trust, to raise from the estate, by leasing or mortgaging any part to raise £1,000 to share equally between her children, if more than one., at 18 years of age, provided that the lease or mortgage is not entailed  until the child/children attain the age of 18.

If any of the children are under 18 at his daughter's death, then upon further trust, to raise money from the estate for their maintenance and education. If only 1 child, £20 per annum, if 2, £30 per annum and if 3 or more, £40 per annum, until their portion is due. If any die under 18, the survivors to share their portion. If all die under 18, the £1,000 to his son, Stephen absolutely.

When the trusts are all carried out, he gives the estate to son, Stephen, for ever.

His real estate in Maidstone, Boughton Monchelsea and Langley, to son Stephen for ever. His son to pay his debts, legacies and funeral costs. He appoints son, Stephen his executor.

He signs the will with his mark, most likely because of his palsy.

Witnesses: James Cutbush  Josias Trigg  G. Finch

Proved 9th December 1730

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 5th April 1776

Stephen Page of Maidstone, Esquire.

He is sick and weak in body.

To his house keeper, Ann Mary Winder, the house and garden where he now lives in Week Street, Maidstone and the house and garden now occupied by John Stubbersfield, for ever.

Also his household goods in his house.

He gives £500 to his relations who live in London, as his executor thinks fit.

To his maid servant, Sarah Stimson, £100.

Rest and residue of real and personal estate, to John Seager of Maidstone, Brewer, for ever, he appoints him his executor.

Witnesses: Thomas Milner  J. Stubbersfield  William Roffe

Proved 24th January 1777

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 12th November 1799

John Seager of Maidstone, Brewer.

To his wife, Jane, for her lifetime, an annuity of £200 from his house where he lately lived and where his son, Stephen Page Seager now lives and his brewhouse, adjoining, at the east end of Week Street, Maidstone and the newly built malt house on the west side of Week Street. The annuity is in lieu of her Dower Rights at Common Law or Custom of Kent, she might otherwise claim. If she does claim such right, the annuity will cease and be void.

He gives the above real estate to his son Stephen, for ever, on condition that he , within 3 months of his father's death, he commits himself by a bond  for the sum of £4,000 to secure the annuity of £200.

To his son, Henry his house and garden on the west side of Week Street, occupied by John Monday and the house and garden  near St Faith's Green, occupied by Jordan Gilbert; also 2 houses on the east side of Week Street, occupied by James Martin and Widow Carter; also the house and Blacksmith's shop in Tylers Lane, Maidstone, occupied by Widow Clifford, also a piece of land, now gardens, of about 4 acres at Tylers Lane, occupied by William Randall; also 2 acres of land in Boxley, occupied by James Honey and a new house with garden, on the south side of East Lane, Maidstone, occupied by Finch Hollingworth. Also the house and garden  on the north side of East Lane, occupied by William Hawkins, Esquire; also 4 houses in Mill Lane, Maidstone, occupied by Richard Gilbert, [            ] Faris, Edward Oliver and [                 ]; also a house  behind Middle Row, High Street, Maidstone, occupied by Mrs Somer; also a house on the north side of the High Street, occupied by [           ] Mitchell; also a house at Havock Lane, Maidstone, occupied by William Worley, [                ] Bigg, [            ] Swan, [          ] Pierce, [              ] Brooke, [           ] Trill and  [         ] Henty; also a piece of land  in Havock Lane, near the last mentioned property ; also a house known by the sign of the Three Mariners, near the Waterside in Maidstone, occupied by William Saye and William Moore; also 2 houses  in Eyhorne Street, Hollingbourne, occupied by the Overseers of the poor of that parish and William Bailey; also a house with barns, stables and 3 acres  of land at Doddington, occupied by John Laker; also a house, barn, stables and 16 acres in Frittenden, occupied by John Crump; also a house, barn, stables and 20 acres of land in Aylesford, occupied by William Kemsley; also a piece of woodland of about 24 acres in Aylesford, adjoining the last property in his own occupation.; also 2 cottages in Aylesford, occupied by John Nott and William Nott; also a piece of land of 1 ½  acres in Bearstead, occupied by Robert Clifford, all to son Henry, for ever.

All the residue of his freehold estate, subject to to the several payments  of £5,000 and all the interest and payment of testator's debts on mortgage, bond, contract or otherwise, to son Stephen, for ever. Stephen to permit his mother to inhabit and reside  in testator's house in Week Street.; also the house near Penenden Heath, which testator “fitted up” for himself, for her lifetime, rent and tax free, she may have use of household goods, plate, linen, china and furniture of these houses, for as long as she remains his widow. He gives all the latter goods to his friends, William Elgar  of Maidstone, Grocer and Thomas Wildes of Maidstone, Gentleman, upon trust, for his wife to use for life or until she remarries. An inventory to be drawn up and a valuation made and after his wife's death or remarriage, all these goods to his son, Stephen.

To his son in law, James Alexander of Maidstone, Banker, £5,000, payable from his real estate bequeathed to son Stephen, within 10 years of testator's death, with interest of 5%. Stephen to to enter into a bond with James Alexander to bind himself on the penalty of £10,000 security for the payment of the £5,000.

He gives to William Elgar  and Thomas Wildes, £5,000, upon trust, to be charged on his real estate, given to son Stephen.

£1,000 part of the £5,000 to grandson, John Seager Elgar Alexander, son of his daughter, Susannah Alexander, when  his grandson is 21.

Trustees to invest the £5,000 in Public Funds or Real securities and pay interest to his daughter, Susannah until son John is 21. Interest from the £1,000 bequeathed to her son, John, towards his maintenance and education while a minor.

Interest from the remaining £4,000, after grandson John is 21, to the sole benefit of daughter, Susannah, for her lifetime. After her death, upon trust and the interest on the £4,000 for the benefit of James Alexander, for life. After the death of the survivor, upon further trust, to pay the principal of £4,000 to their son John and any other lawfully born child of his daughter by her present or any future husband, shared equally at their respective ages of 21. If there are no children of his daughter surviving to 21 years, then the £4,000 to his 2 sons, Stephen and Henry, equally shared, for ever.

After payment of his debts, funeral and probate charges, his ready money, securities for money, bills, bonds, notes, book debts, stock, utensils, implements of trade, rest and residue of personal estate, to son Stephen.

He appoints his wife, Jane and his 2 sons, Stephen and Henry executors.

Witnesses: Jos. White  James Smyth  John Hopkins

Proved 17th March 1801

131

Here lieth the Body of
SUSANNA Wife of
JEREMIAH PARKER
who departed this Life
August ye 6th 17[  ] Aged
74 Years Left issue two
Daughters
MARY & ELIZABETH
Here also lyeth ye [Body]
of the above said
JEREMIAH PARKER
who departed this Life
Nov ye [  ] 1730 Aged 82 Years
Left issue two Daughters
[MARY] & ELIZABETH
Here lyeth ye Body of MARY
the Wife of TOBIAS FERRAL
who departed this Life
 October the 13th 173[6] Aged 59 Years
Left issue 3 Daughters
[DI]NAH, MARY & ELIZABETH
[JAM]ES STONEHOUSE
died Dec 3rd 1772 Aged
2 Years

132

Here lyeth the Body of
JOHN PAULEY of
Maidstone  who departed
this Life the 15th of Feb 169[7]*
Aged 64 Years left issue
3 Sons and 7 Daughters
MARY PAULEY Wife
of the above said JOHN PAULEY died
Jan 17th  1723  Aged 8[ ] Years
 FRANCES COOPER  died
Nov 18th 1740 Aged 7[ ]
HANNAH PAULEY died March
1[ ] 174[9] Aged 67 Years
DEBORAH SAVAGE
died the 18th of July
1778 Aged [ ]8 Years

* This date would have have been in the English style, using the Julian Calendar, so in the modern calendar, the Gregorian calendar, it would be 1698.

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 20th December 1697

John Pauley of Maidstone, Maltster.

To his wife, Mary, for life, his farm at Haundehurst ?, in Staplehurst, of about 90 acres, occupied by Goddard Forster. Also his 30 acre farm in Staplehurst, adjoining the above farm, also tenanted by Goddard Forster. She to keep the properties in good repair. After her death, he gives the latter farm to his son, Thomas, for ever, provided that within 6 months  after the death of the survivor of his parents, he pays £50 to his sister, Hannah, towards her portion, (marriage portion). If he neglects or refuses to do so, Hannah to receive the rents and profits  of the farm until she receives the £50 and interest.

To his son, Joshua, the other farm at Staplehurst, after his mother's death, for ever.

To his eldest son, Henry, £5.

To his daughter, Elizabeth, wife of James Savidge, 1 shilling.

To his daughter, Hannah, an additional £50.

To his daughter, Jane, £5, when she is 21.

To his 3 daughters, Frances, Damaris and Susanna, £100 each, at 20 years of age or day of marriage if earlier. If any of these 3 die before the legacies are paid, then her legacy to her child or children, lawfully begotten. If she leaves no children, he gives her legacy to the survivor or survivors of these 3.

If daughter, Hannah, dies before her marriage and before  her legacies are paid, then her legacy to his daughter, Sarah, wife of James Godden.

After his debts and funeral costs are paid, the residue  of his goods, chattels and personal estate to be equally shared between his daughters, Frances, Damaris, Susanna, Hannah and Sarah or those then  living, at 20 or day of marriage if earlier.

His wife, Mary is his executor.

Witnesses: William Maddox  Thomas Argles  John Rose

Proved 19th May 1698

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 10th June 1746

Hannah Pauley of Maidstone, Spinster.

Her debts and funeral costs to be first paid.

To her niece Deborah Savage, £20.

To her niece Matilda French, £20.

To her niece (sic) Will Green, a gold ring.

To her nephew Thomas Stephenson, a gold ring.

To her nieces Ann Spire ? and Mary Wallter, a gold ring each.

The residue of her estate, goods, chattels, money, securities, to her nephew John Savage, who is to be her executor.

Witnesses: Judith Duke  Judith Seymour

Proved 23rd March 1748 (1749 in modern calendar)

133

[                               ]
Mr GEORGE PEIRCE
Thrice Mayor of this Town
died May ye 15th 1717 Aged
80
ELIZABETH Wife of [the]
above said Mr GEORGE PEIRCE
died Feb 6th 17[  ]
Aged 84 Years
Also MARTHA Widow
of THOS. SWINOCK and
Daughter of the above said
who died 15th Sept 1755 Aged
86 Years

(At the foot of the ledger these initials)
G.P. 75      M.P. 7[ ]

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 10th February 1716 (1717)

George Peirce of Maidstone, Gentleman.

He is indisposed in body.

His house, brewhouse, stables and garden, with rights of way, in Week Street, Maidstone, to his wife, Elizabeth. She is to sell it and pay off the incumference it is charged with and pay his debts.

Also to his wife, all rights, titles, property, claim and demand in his 2 vessels or hoys, with the cables, ropes and tackle, furniture and clothing (sails ?). Adam Abbet is master of one of them and Alexander Long of the other.

Also to his wife, all timber, boards, planks, laths, stock in trade, all household goods and implements, plate, linen, woollen, brass, pewter, brewing vessels, copper and other goods, chattels and personal estate. She to pay his debts, legacies and funeral costs. Surplus money to his wife for life and after her death, to his grand daughters, Mary and Rebecca Taylor, equally shared.

His wife is his executor and he asks his friend, William Dixon of Maidstone, Esquire, to act as Overseer and assist his wife. He gives him 10 guineas for his troubles.

Witnesses: Christopher Fullagar  William Jemmett  Samuel Fullagar

Proved 28th June 1717. It seems his wife, Elizabeth has renounced the execution of the will and administration was granted to John Taylor, the principal creditor.

PEMBLE see BELFORD

134

Beneath this Stone
lie the Remains  of
ANNE
the beloved Wife of JOHN PETT
who died the 22nd of June 1800
Aged 76 Years
Also JN. LEGG PETT & HANNAH PETT
their Children  who died Infants
Also the above named JOHN PETT
died the 21st of June 1806
in the 83rd Year of his Age
ELIZABETH PETT
died 10th Dec. 1847
Aged 79 Years
ANN PETT
died 20th April 1849
Aged 91 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 22nd October 1800

John Pett of Tovil, Maidstone, Gentleman.

His mansion house  and land belonging near Tovil and his other real estate, to his son, Phineas  Pett and his daughters, Ann Pett and Elizabeth Pett, for ever, (equally shared ?)

After the payment of his debts,  and funeral charges, the residue of his goods, chattels, ready money, securities for money, jewels, plate, stock and personal estate and effects, to his son and daughters, equally shared.

Witnesses: George Burr  Charles Hoar  G.D. Burr

Codicil 22nd November 1800

He gives his daughters, Ann and Elizabeth, all of his household goods, furniture, plate, linen and china in his house at Tovil.

Rest of the will is ratified.

Witnesses: George Burr  Robert Parnly ? Charles Hoar

Proved 22nd July 1806. His son is the Reverend Phineas Pett D.D.

135

[                          ]
RICHARD POLHILL
died 12th January 1739*
Aged 32 Years
left issue three Sons
Also REBECCA his Wife
(afterwards married to
Mr ROBERT HARTRIDGE) died
Nov the 14th 1757
Aged 59 Years
Also RICHARD the youngest
Son of the above named
RICHARD and REBECCA POLHILL
died June the 19th 1785
Aged 45 Years

* 1740 in the modern calendar

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 7th December 1739

Richard Polhill of Maidstone, Linen Draper.

He gives 1 third of his real estate in Tonbridge  to his son, Robert, for ever.

He gives 1 third of his real estate each, to his sons William and Richard, for ever.

If any of his sons died under 21 years, without lawful issue, his share to the survivors or survivor.

If all his sons die under 21, without any issue, then the whole of this estate to his wife, Rebecca, for life and after her death, then to his 2 brothers, Robert and David, for ever, equally shared.

He gives, during his sons  minority, his wife to have the management of the respective shares  of his real estate and receive the rents and profits and apply sufficient money towards his sons maintenance and education.

If she dies or remarries before his sons are 21, then his 2 brothers, Robert and David, to manage the rents and profits and apply money to the benefit of his sons until they are respectively 21.

He earnestly requests his 2 brothers to assist his wife as his executor.

His goods, chattels and personal estate to his wife and directs that his debts be paid as soon as possible.

He gives his brothers and sister (   ?   ), a ring of about 1 guinea value each.

Witnesses: Mark of Mary Peirce  Mark of Frances Drayner ?  Samuel Eastchurch

Proved 24th April 1740

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 4th June 1785

Richard Polhill of Chatham, Gentleman.

He wishes to be buried at All Saints, Maidstone

His manor, house and farm called Philpots in Tonbridge, occupied by [           ] Katt, to his brothers, William and Robert Polhill, for their lifetimes. After the death of the survivor, then ½ of the property to his 3 nephews, William, Richard and John Polhill, (sons of his brother, Robert) and sons of his brother, William, (if any) and their male heirs, with preference to the eldest,  equally shared. The other ½ to the younger of them and then through the male line, for ever.

His farm at Luton, in Chatham, to his brothers, Robert and William, equally shared.

His executors to lay out from his personal estate,  £200 in the 3% Consolidated Bank Annuities.

With his present holding of £800 in the same stock, this will make £1,000 in total. The annual interest to be paid to Mary Lowdell of Chatham, Spinster, for life, on condition, that she, within 3 months of his death, conveys to his 2 brothers, Robert and William, for ever, the annuity payable to her. He gives the capital stock of £1,000  to his 2 brothers equally shared, ( I assume the £1,000 will go to the brothers after Mary Lowdell's death.)

His executors to produce an inventory of his goods and furniture in his house, these goods to the use of Mary Lowdell, for life.

To Jane Beckett, Mary Lowdell's servant, £10 for mourning.

To his aunt, Helen Polhill, Richard Murton and Mary his wife, a mourning ring each of 1 guinea value.

To Richard Murton, his silver decanting funnel.

Residue of ready money, securities for money, chattels, effects and personal estate, his debts, legacies and funeral costs first paid, to his brothers, Robert and William, equally shared.

He appoints his 2 brothers and Mary Lowdell his executors.

Witnesses: Thomas Tomlyn  William Brown  Mary franks, Servant to Mr Tomlyn

Proved 27th October 1785

136

Under this Stone lieth the Body of
WILLIAM POLHILL Gent who died
April 11th 1768 Aged 68 Years
Likewise the Body of
THOMAS TURNIS who died
March 30th 1750 Aged 69 Years
Also ELIZABETH his Wife died
July 28th 1780 Aged 86 Years
Also DAVID POLHILL Esq died
October 3rd 1782 Aged 67 Years
Also WILLM POLHILL his Son died
July 16th 1789 Aged 37 Years
Also Miss HELEN POLHILL
his Daughter  died August 13th
1795 Aged 35 Years
And Mrs HELEN POLHILL Wife
of the above DAVID POLHILL
Esq died April 10th 1796
Aged 73 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated  2nd July 1782

David Polhill of Maidstone, Gentleman.

To his son and daughter, William and Helen Polhill, his house, in 2 dwellings, occupied by John Williams and [        ] Bond, also his house, garden and oast house, stable ad land  of about 8 acres, now or late occupied by John Coward in Maidstone at Penenden Heath, for ever, equally shared.

After payment of his debts, funeral and probate costs, the residue of his goods, chattels, money, securities for money, personal estate and effects, to his wife, Helen, absolutely. He appoints his wife his executor.

Witnesses: Thomas Day  Thomas Durrant Punnett  George Burr

Proved 12th November 1782

137

[                         ]
J. POPE 1706 [    ] POPE 1710
WM. POPE died [      ] 4th 1737
Aged [  ]
SAML. POPE died [       ] 12th
1736 Aged [  ]
ANNE POPE Wife of
THOMAS POPE  the Elder
died Oct 29th [     ] Aged 64
Here also lieth  the Body of
THOMAS POPE  the Elder
died July 10th [1748] Aged 77 Years
Also ELIZ. Daughter of
PETER and ANN POPE of London
died Jan. 8th 1752 Aged 7 Years
Here also lieth the Body of
JOHN Son of the above
THOMAS and ANN POPE
who died Jan. 6th 1767 Aged 59 Years
Also HOLLAND their Son who died
[                                            ]
Fragment
 Also SUSANNAH his Wife
died April 20th 1807 Aged 93 Years

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 29th October 1746

Thomas Pope of Maidstone, Thread Twister.

To his wife, Anne, his house, outhouse, shop, garden and land, near East Lane, Maidstone, on the west side of Padsole Lane, late in his own occupation and now of his son, Robert, for her lifetime.

After her death, then to his son, Thomas, for ever.

To his son, John and Elizabeth, his wife, his 4 new;y erected oast houses and oast chambers and yards on the east side Padsole Lane, now in testator's occupation, for their lifetimes. After the death of the survivor, to the lawful heirs of John's body, for ever. In default of such heirs then to testator's own right heirs, for ever.

Also to son John, all the oast clothes, hair clothes, implements and utensils of the oast houses, used for drying and bagging hops, (except the charcoal).

Also to son John and daughter, Anne Pope and their heirs, for ever, upon trust, his house and stable on the east side of Padsole Lane, near or adjoining the above oast houses. Also his house, barns, stables and buildings, courts, yards, gardens and orchards, with 9 pieces of land, (formally 6 pieces), at Magenford in Maidstone, of about 30 acres, formerly occupied by the late William Willard and now by John Willard, this was lately purchased from John Willard and Margaret, his wife. This property to be sold.

To his wife Anne, all his plate, linen, rings, china, household goods and implements, absolutely; also £150.

To his son Thomas, £50

To his son Matthew, £50

To his daughter Anne Pope, £150

To his son Robert, £100

To his son Peter, £100

These legacies paid from the proceeds of the above sale and from his personal estate.

To his son Holland, £60, as follows, £30 within 3 months and £30 within 9 months. Also to Holland, £40, towards placing him in an apprenticeship or otherwise, as executors think fit.

He earnestly desires his wife, by her will or otherwise, to gives to their daughter Anne another £50.

To son John and daughter Anne, for the term of years unexpired, in the lease on a piece of hop ground of about 6 acres, near the Roebuck in Maidstone (is this an inn ?).

To son Robert, for the term remaining, the lease of a piece of hop ground of about 3 acres, near the hop ground of Mr Simmonds in Maidstone.

The rest and residue of ready money, securities for money, debts owing, hop poles, goods, chattels and personal estate and effects, after his debts, legacies and funeral costs are paid, to his wife Anne and his 7 children, Thomas, John, Matthew, Anne, Robert, Peter and Holland, equally shared.

He appoints his son John and daughter Anne, his executors.

Witnesses: David Polhill  Peter Groombridge  Samuel Eastchurch

Proved 21st November 1748

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated  9th December 1765

John Pope of Maidstone, Upholder (Upholsterer)

To his wife, Elizabeth, all his real estate, for life.

After her death, to his sister, Anne, wife of Edward Gossling of Maidstone, an annuity of £5, from his real estate, free of tax.

Also after his wife's death, his real estate to his brothers, Thomas, Matthew, Robert, Holland and Peter Pope, equally shared, for ever, subject to the above annuity.

To Jane Wattell, daughter of Thomas Wattell of Maidstone, Gardener, £50 from his personal estate.

To his wife, Elizabeth, the residue of  ready money, securities for money, stock in trade, plate, linen, furniture and household implements, goods, chattels, debts and personal estate, absolutely; his wife is his executor.

Witnesses: Fra. Lewis  Thomas Durrant Punnett  Thomas Punnett

Proved 10th February 1767

138

Here lies the Body of FRANCES
Wife of THOMAS POPE Esq
who died December the 24th 173[ ]
MARY POPE died May the 7th
1745 Aged 20 Years
Also MARTHA second Wife of
THOMAS POPE Esq died February
the 10th 1766 Aged 68 Years
Likewise the Body of
THOMAS POPE Esq who departed
this Life October the 26th 1775
in the 75th Year of his Age
And FRANCES  Wife of
ROBERT GENTILE and Daughter
of the above THOMAS POPE Esq
 died December the 10th 1791
Aged 64 Years
Likewise ANN Daughter of the
above THOMAS POPE Esq
and FRANCES his Wife
died Oct the 31st 1794
Aged 64 Years
Also the above  named
ROBERT GENTILE
who died Dec 1819
Aged 89 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 21st October 1775

Thomas Pope of Maidstone, Gentleman.

To his son, Thomas, for ever, his house with a barn, stables, malthouse, oast house and about 35 acres of land at Maginford in Maidstone, formerly the estate of the late John Willard, which he purchased from his late brother John Pope and his sister Ann Gosling. And another house, in 2 dwellings, outhouse, yard, garden and orchard with land of about 4 acres at Maginford, which he purchased from [        ] Collins, Gentleman. Also his house and 3 aces of land in Marden, occupied by Nathaniel Allen.

Also  a cottage with close, yard and garden and 2 pieces of adjoining land, about 3 acres also in Marden, occupied by William Crouch, which he purchased from Richard Rich Esquire. Also his ½ share of a house near Tower Hill, London, lately known  as the Queen's Head, now as the Black Horse, occupied by Thomas Allen, which he purchased from his late brother in law, Thomas Taylor and his wife. His son is entitled the the other ½ by testator's marriage settlement with his first wife. Also another house in East Lane, Maidstone, occupied by his brother, Holland Pope and another house in East Lane, occupied by Henry Cutbush; also a malthouse in East Lane, occupied by William Wrentmore; also his oast houses and buildings in East Lane in his own occupation; also another house in East Lane, occupied by John Pilcher; another house in East Lane, occupied by  Dorothy Hearnden, Widow,  And 4 newly built houses  also in East Lane, occupied by Robert Gewfield ?, John Hammond, William Bowne ?, and Judith Brown. Also his house in East Lane, late the estate of his deceased brother John, subject and liable to the payment of an annuity of 5 guineas to his brother Holland and his wife, Susan, for their lifetimes.

Also to son Thomas, all of his hop poles on his hop ground at Maginford and his corkles, oasthairs and other tackle and implements in his oast house there; also corkles, oasthairs, tackle and implements in his oast house in East Lane. Also to Thomas, his gold watch and case.

To his brothers Robert of Maidstone, Gentleman and Peter of Fenchurch Street, London, Hosier, his 2 houses, barns, stables and land in Cranbrook and Hawkhurst, occupied by Jacob Hunt; also a house and land at Marden, occupied by Thomas Chittenden, upon trust,for the  benefit of his daughter Frances, wife of Robert Gentile of Maidstone, Leather Dresser. Brothers Robert and Peter to pay the rents and profits from the property to Frances for life, this not to be controlled  or subject to her present or any future husband's interests. After her death, then to her lawful children, equally shared. In default of such children, then to such of his children, Thomas, Ann Pope and Judith Post or their issue subject to conditions and agreements his daughter, Frances directs by her will or otherwise. In default of such direction, then to his own right heirs, for ever.

To his daughter Frances Gentile his diamond ring and £150, from his personal estate.

To his daughter Ann Pope, 2 houses with barns, stables, outhouses and land in Hawkhurst, which he purchased from George Hood, Butcher, now occupied by George Hood. Also several pieces of land of about 20 acres at Vinters, Boxley, occupied by Simon Rowe, which he purchased from John Simpson ?, also several pieces of land with a barn at Highgate, Hawkhurst, occupied by Thomas Brown, also 3 houses, gardens and land near Highgate also occupied by Thomas Brown; another 4 houses , stables, outhouses, gardens and land at Stone Street, Maidstone, occupied by Charles Wood, William Hearnden, Richard Clout, Thomas Gardener and [         ] Cousens, which he purchased from Peter Oliver, John Oliver and Peter Oliver, Junior, for ever.

Also to daughter Ann, all his silver plate and china and £700 from his personal estate.

To his brothers, Robert and Peter, his house and land at Hawkhurst, occupied by William Turkner ?, also his house and farm land at Lenham, Frinsted and Milsted, lately occupied by Widow Knott, which he purchased from John Underwood, also his woodland, upon trust, for the benefit of his son in law, George Post of Maidstone, Distiller, husband of his daughter, Judith, for his lifetime, after his death, to his daughter, Judith Post for life, they to receive the rents and profits. When the survivor of them has died, then to the benefit of their children, equally shared. In default of any children, then to his own children, Thomas, Frances Gentile and Ann Pope in the manner directed by Judith Post by will or deed. In default of such direction, then to his own right heirs.

To his daughter Judith, £600 from his personal estate.

He confirms the settlement made on daughter Judith's marriage with George Post, concerning several houses in Stone Street, Maidstone.

To his son Thomas, all of his leases, for the remainder of the terms, subject to payment of rents and observance of covenants.

Residue of his personal estate to be divide into 4 equal parts, 1 quarter to son Thomas, 2 quarters to daughter Ann and 2 quarters to his trustees, Robert and Peter Pope, upon trust.

All stock and crops of hops, corn, etc, on his land to be deemed part of his residuary personal estate and pass to the devises of his farms and land.

Trustees to place proceeds from their ½ share of his residuary personal estate in good Government or Real securities and pay income from them to his daughter Frances, for life, free of any husband's interest or control. After her death, then to her children, as she by will or deed directs. In default of direction, to be equally shared between her children at 21 years of age. In meantime income to their maintenance and education. If Frances dies childless, the equally shared between his son Thomas, daughter Ann and Judith and George Post.......................................

He gives to his sister Ann Gosling, widow of Edward Gosling of Maidstone, Soap Boiler, ann annuity of £10 for life.

He appoints son Thomas and daughter Ann, his executors.

Witnesses: William Arnold  Henry Miller  Thomas Durrant Punnett

Proved 16th November 1775

139

[                               ]
[ROBERT POPE]
[died 1799 / 1800]
Aged 80
ELIZABETH POPE
Widow of the above named
ROBERT POPE Esq
who departed this Life
24th May 1803
Aged 68 Years
Also ELIZABETH
the Wife of the Rev. ROBERT POPE
of Mersham in this
County who died Oct 19th
1833 Aged 80 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 16th March 1799

Robert Pope of Maidstone, Esquire.

If James Poole of Maidstone, Draper, is living at the time of his death, he is to be the undertaker for his funeral.

He appoints his nephew, John Pope of Goudhurst, Gentleman and great nephew, Thomas Blissett Pope of Maidstone, Gentleman and Francis Smith of Maidstone, Doctor of Physic, his executors.   He gives them each, £50 and to them and Thomas Day of Maidstone, Surgeon, a gold mourning ring, each.

To his brother, Peter and Peter's daughter, Catherine, and to friend John Firth of Friday Street, London, Hosier and Mary his wife, 5 guineas each for a ring.

To his executors, £20, upon trust, for poor families of Maidstone, distributed as they think fit, as “proper objects of charity”. Also £20 to the poor of Maidstone, in bread at the poor house as the Churchwardens and Overseers think fit. Also to his executors, £20, upon trust, for the Charity Schools in Maidstone, one for boys and the other for girls.

To his late servant, Frances Dann, wife of Richard Dann of Maidstone, Wheelwright and his late servant, Elizabeth Atwood, Widow and Mary Munn, Widow, servant of the late Mr Dansie Sawkins, £20 each and to his godson, Robert Gatfield, 5 guineas. If any of these die before they can be paid, their money to go into his residuary personal estate.

His man and maid servants with him at the time of his death, to have decent mourning and 5 guineas each over and above their wages due.

To his executors, £50, upon trust, for William Ayles the infant son of his deceased servant John Ayles, either to his bringing up or to place him as an apprentice or as executors think fit.

To his nephew, Thomas Blissett Pope, his house and farm at Thurnham and his house and farm at Weavering Street, Boxley, occupied by himself and George Beaumont, he purchased the latter from Mr Dansie Sawkins. Also his house and farm at Magingford, Maidstone and his house and farm  at Weavering ?, and several pieces of woodland  of about 20 acres in Boxley, purchased from Rachael Cordwell and others, subject to the payment of £1,000 to each of his brothers, Robert and Horatio, within 2 years  of their 21st birthdays. If either of them die before then , leaving no lawful issue, the bequest is void.

To nephew, John Pope and nieces, Ann and Elizabeth Pope, Spinsters, sisters of John, his freehold houses in East Lane and Gabriel's Hill, Maidstone, occupied by Robert Harris, Thomas Crittenden, John Collins, [           ] Spriggs, Widow and William Wyley, for ever, equally divided; he purchased these houses from John Rogers.

To John and Thomas Blissett Pope, his 2 houses in East Lane, occupied by [         ] Sharp and Thomas Chambers, Shoe Maker and 2 other houses in East Lane, occupied by James Overy  and                [             ] Crowther and the house, also in East Lane, occupied by Edward Hodges, upon trust.

One third for Frances Smith wife of Francis Smith  and daughter of his late nephew, Thomas Pope, for ever. One third for Margaret Argles wife of John Argles of Maidstone, Grocer, another daughter of Thomas Pope, for ever. The other third for Mary Ann Pope, another daughter of Thomas Pope, for ever. If Mary Ann Pope dies under 21 leaving no lawful issue, then to Frances Smith and Margaret Argles, for ever, equally shared. The rents and profits of the third for Mary Ann Pope to be applied to her maintenance  and education during her minority.

To John Pope, Thomas Blissett Pope and Francis Smith, his house and farm near Styles Bridge in Marden, late occupied by Robert Rains and now by [                ] Mannering, upon trust, for Robert Pope, son of his late nephew, Thomas Pope at 21 years of age, for ever. In the meantime, rents and profits to his maintenance and education. If he dies under 21, leaving no lawful issue, then to his brothers, Thomas Blissett and Horatio Pope, for ever, equally shared. If Horatio dies under 21 leaving no lawful issue, then his share to his brother, Thomas Blissett for ever.

He gives his oast house and buildings in Watery Lane ?, Maidstone, he purchased at Hodsell's sale and others, to Thomas Blissett Pope, for ever.

To his executors, £3,000 upon trust, to invest in the 3% Consolidated Bank Annuities and pay the annual dividends to his wife, Elizabeth, for life. This is in lieu of the £100 per annum due to her by their marriage settlement. After her death, the trustees to sell and pay £2,000 to his nephews, Robert and Horatio Pope, equally shared. If either die under 21 then the whole £2,000 to the survivor. If both died under 21, then the £2,000 goes into his residuary personal estate.

(Difficult to read...........)

To his executors, £3,000 in the 5% Annuities part of his stock in the Bank of England, upon trust, for Frances Ann Burr, Mary Burr, Elizabeth Burr, George Burr and Thomas Coare Burr, children of  of his late great niece, Mary Burr, equally shared at their respective ages of 21.

Executors to pay interest towards their maintenance and education during their minorities.

To his executors, £1,000, upon trust, to buy 3% Consolidated Bank Annuities or Real estate or Government Securities, for the children of his nephew, George Post, son of his niece, Judith Post, Widow, living at the time of George Post's death, at 21 and shared as directed by George Post's now wife, Margaret and as directed by her will or otherwise. In default of direction, upon trust, to pay the interest to Margaret Post for life and after her death, the £1,000 stock to her next of kin.

To his niece, Harriott Plant wife of Thomas Plant of Watling Street, London, Hosier, one of 2 surviving daughters of his late nephew, Holland Pope, £2,000.

To his executors, £1,000 3% Consolidate Bank Annuities, upon trust, to transfer to Elizabeth Firth wife of Joseph Firth of Doncaster, Mercer, the other daughter of Holland Pope.

To his executors, £1,000 0the same annuities, upon trust, for Harriett James the infant daughter of  John James of Nottingham, Hosier, by testator's late niece, Mary James, another daughter of Holland Pope, to be transferred to her at 21 years of age. Interest during her minority to her father. If she dies under 21, leaving no lawful issue and her father is living, then upon trust, to pay the £1,000 stock to her father, absolutely.

To his nephew, John Pope, over and above his legacies, £800

To his nieces, Ann and Elizabeth Pope, John's sisters, £100 each.

To his executors and trustees, upon trust, £1,350 to pay one third to his niece, Frances Smith, one third to Margaret Argles. One third to John Pope and Thomas Blissett Pope, upon trust, to invest  in Real or Government securities, for his nieces, Mary Ann Pope, sister of Frances Smith and Margaret Argles, at 21 years of age. In meantime interest towards her maintenance and education.

To his executors and trustees, £400, upon trust, to invest as before and transfer the fund to Mary and Elizabeth Post, daughters of Walter Post, late of the Borough, Southwark, Seeds Man, in equal shares at 21 years of  age. In the meantime interest to be used as before. If they both die under 21, leaving no lawful issue, the fund goes into his residuary personal estate.

To his sister in law, Susanna Pope, widow of his late brother, Holland Pope, £200.

To his executors and trustees, money from his personal estate, sufficient to buy £2,100 3% Consolidated Bank Annuities, upon trust, to pay dividends to his sister, Susanna Pope, for life, in satisfaction of £21 per annum secured by a bond entered into when Holland Pope conveyed his interest in the estate of his late brother, John to his surviving brothers. After her death, the £2,100 stock goes into his residuary personal estate.

To Thomas Blissett Pope, the piece of hop ground, known as Rattle Ale in Maidstone and the house , oast house and hop ground held on lease  from the Trustees of Fisher's Gift Charity, for remainder of the term.

To his executors and trustees, £1,000, upon trust, to invest in Real or Government securities, and to pay annual income  to his great niece, Judith Post daughter of his niece, Judith Post, Widow, for life. After her death, to her husband for life and after his death to transfer the £1,000 to her lawful children at 21 years of age........................

If Judith never married and had no children, or if she dies under 21, then the fund as she directs by will or otherwise. In default of direction, then as directed by the laws of intestacy.

To his executors and trustees, £400 New 5% Annuities, upon trust to pay dividends to his niece, Judith Post, for life and after her death, to pay the £400 fund to her daughter, Judith.

His friend, Thomas Poole of Maidstone, Hatter, is in debt to him and Flint Stacy of Maidstone, Brewer for £440 by bond and mortgage on a house in Week Street, Maidstone, in his occupation, ½ the debts is testator's and the other ½ Flint Stacy's. He now gives Thomas Poole the £220 and interest due and discharges him , the executors to release him from the bond.

He gives his wife, Elizabeth, £20 for mourning, also to her £150 and the silver plate which she brought into the marriage, a large salver with coat of arms, 2 butter boats marked E.P., 6 large silver table spoons, 6 dessert spoons, 6 tea spoons with crests, 6 other tea spoons marked  P and S.P.E., 2 tea tongs, not marked, one opens and shuts like scissors, the other one has a feather edge., a pint can with a crest, a pair of large salts, not marked, pair of salt shovels, not marked, a pepper box, not marked, a punch ladle marked P, also to his wife, all liquors.

He gives her, for life, the free use of household goods, plate, linen, chia and effects in his house, which with the land and buildings, he has of Thomas Pincke Kingsly, Esquire (except ready money, bank notes, tithe debts of his several estates and securities for money). After his wife's death, the household goods, furniture and effects, (except silver plate given to his wife), to be part of the residue of his personal estate.

Also to his wife, the lease granted by Thomas Pincke Kingsly and the premise for the unexpired term or for as long as she wishes to reside there.

His wife to leave as good a stock of hop poles on the hop ground on the same land. If she chooses not to live in the property, he gives her the lease granted by the Reverend George Sayer and the premises devised, now occupied by William Allen in Stone Street, Maidstone, for the remainder of the lease, as long as she wishes to live there.

His wife will deliver his tithe deeds, mortgages, bonds, bills, notes, account books, money, bank notes, securities for money, to his executors and he gives his executors the residue of his goods, chattels, stock, husbandry tackle, cattle, , personal estate and effects, upon trust. They  to convert into money that not consisting of money. After his debts, legacies and funeral costs are paid, invest in Real or Government securities, upon trust,  and transfer them to Thomas Blissett Pope, Robert Pope, Horatio Pope, Francis Smith, Margaret Argles and Mary Ann Pope, children of  his late nephew, Thomas Pope and his nephew , John Pope and his nieces, Ann and Elizabeth  Pope and Judith Post, Spinster, daughter of his niece, Judith Post, Widow, also George Burr, husband of the late Mary Burr and Harriett Plant and Elizabeth Firth, 2 surviving daughters  of his nephew, Holland Pope, those who are minors, at 21 years of age, in meantime interest towards their maintenance and education................................................................

Witnesses: Edward Argles  John Kennett  Thomas Tassell

Proved 17th January 1800

140

In this Vault
are Interred  ELIZABETH
Wife of THOMAS POPE Gent
She died 20th August 1803
Aged [ ]1 Years
Also MARGARET [their] Daughter
who died [            ] 1808
[                          ]
Also PETER POPE Esq
died 9th Jan 1809
[Aged 88 Years]
[         Gap           ]
Also the above named
THOMAS B. POPE
who died Nov 15th 1835 Aged 51
Also THOMAS his Son
who died Jan 14th 1837 Aged 36
Also the Revd. ROBT. POPE
of Great Buckland
who died Dec 26th 1840
Aged 62 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 28th November 1807

This will is very long (27 pages) and much of the text is in poor condition Like many wills of this size, much of the text consists of tedious, repetitive  trust details concerning his daughter, his only child, Catherine and any children she may have.

Peter Pope of Fenchurch Street, London and Camberwell, Surrey, Esquire (Hosier)

He desires to be buried  in Maidstone parish church as near as possible to his father and family and a “neat” marble tablet monument with an inscription, as his executors think proper.

He appoints his nephew John Pope of Goudhurst, Gentleman and friends, John Firth of Friday Street, London, Hosier and Daniel Fowler of Champion Hill, Camberwell, Esquire, as his executors. He gives each of them £100  for their troubles.

To his daughter and only child Catherine Pope, his house in Fenchurch Street in his and John Hyde's occupation, also his furniture, jewels, plate, linen, china, glass, books, wine, spirits, provisions, carriages, horses and harness, absolutely.

To the Churchwardens of Maidstone, £100 in the 5% Bank Annuities, to use the dividends for bread or money, as they think fit, for the poor in the parish Workhouse on every Lord's day in the year after his death.

To the Churchwardens of St Dionis Backchurch, Lime Street, London, £100 of the same annuities for the same purpose as in Maidstone.

To the Master and Wardens of the Haberdashers Company of London, Governors of the Robert Askes Hospital at Hoxton, Middlesex, £500 3% Consolidated Bank Annuities to be used for the benefit of that hospital.

To Langbourne Ward Charity School, London, £100.

To the    ?      Hospital, City Road, London, £100

To the Mariners Society, London, £100.

To the Magdalene Hospital, London, £100

To Christ's Hospital, London, £400 towards the building of the hospital but the money not to be paid until his daughter marries and the her husband is admitted as a Governor of the hospital.

To his friend Robert Gentile of Maidstone, £10 for mourning.

All his servants in his house in Fenchurch Street or at Camberwell, with him at his death, to be given suitable mourning and £10 each for those with him for at least 3 years.

To nephew John Pope and each of his 3 nieces, Frances wife of Dr Smith, of Maidstone, Mary Ann wife of Daniel Fowler and Margaret wife of John Argles of Maidstone, £100 and a ring of 2 guineas value. A ring of the same value to be presented to his great nephews, Thomas, Robert and Horatio Pope and to Elizabeth Crowder who live with Mrs Brooks at Coombes Hill, Greenwich, Mary Firth, Thomas Plant of Nottingham and Harriott, his wife, Joseph Firth of Doncaster, John Firth and Daniel Fowler.

To his great nephews Thomas, Robert and Horatio Pope, £500 each and to Joseph Firth and Thomas Plant, £100 each.............................................

To Ann West, late Ann Warmington, formerly his servant, now living in Sester's ? Building, Greenwich, an annuity of £15 for life.

He has recently purchased from Thomas Jackson, Esquire, 5 of 7 parts  of land adjoining his freehold house in Camberwell, he gives this to his trustees, to go with his house.............................difficult to read, obscured by a grey tone..........................................for benefit of his daughter Catherine.

Daniel Fowler owes him £5,000, secured by bond and mortgage, Fowler to pay interest to daughter Catherine Pope. Executors can call in the £5,000 or any part until after the death of his daughter ?

The £5,000 and residue of his money, securities for money, goods, chattels and personal estate, after payment of his debts, legacies, funeral and probate costs; his freehold house in Fenchurch Street at corner of Lime Street and his 3 freehold houses  in Camberwell, now of late occupied by himself and Messrs Luttermer and Curling and his freehold house in Maidstone High Street, now or late occupied by Thomas Tyrrell and other real estate, to his trustees, upon trust. They, from the rents  and interest from his personal estate, to pay their costs, pay taxes and insurance and during the life of his daughter, Catherine (pay her the residue ?)

If she dies before she can receive the income.............obscure..................

If she marries and leaves a child, the the benefits of his real estate to that child.............................

After his daughter's death,his house in Fenchurch Street, to his nephew, John Pope, absolutely.

His 3 houses in Camberwell to Daniel Fowler, absolutely.

His property in Maidstone to his great nephew, Horatio Pope, absolutely.

His residuary personal estate, upon trust, for any children of his daughter Catherine................

In default of any children, then to the benefit of his great nephews and nieces, Thomas, Robert and Horatio Pope, Frances Smith, Margaret Argles and Mary Ann Fowler, equally shared................

Witnesses: Thomas George Knapp, Haberdashers Hall  Henry Hughes  Stacey Grimaldi, Clerk to Messrs  Knapp and Hughes

In the Margin 28th November 1807

A ring of 2 guineas value to Thomas George Knapp.

Codicil 19th July 1808

Since making the will he has bought 2 freehold houses from John Carr, Esquire adjoining each other, nos 10 and 11 on the east side of Park Place, Camberwell Grove, now or late occupied by  John Orange ?, and Gilbert Ross, he gives them to his trustees, upon trust, for the benefit of his daughter Catherine.

His 3 houses in Camberwell, to his trustees, upon trust, they can be sold or leased.

Witnesses: Thomas George Knapp, Haberdashers Hall  Stacey Grimaldi, Clerk to Messrs Knapp and Hughes  John Gilbody, Staining Lane, London

Codicil 22nd July 1808

Concerning the 2 houses in Camberwell bought from John Carr, if his daughter, Catherine dies  leaving no children, the they go to Daniel Fowler.

He had given his residuary personal estate to his great nephew and nieces, if his daughter dies leaving no children. Now (instead ?) each of these, except Mary Ann Fowler, to have £2,000, part of his personal estate.

A ring to the value of 2 guineas each to his friend Mrs Brooke, Widow of the late Captain Brooke.

Witnesses: Thomas  George Knapp  Henry Hughes  (       ?       ) Haberdashers Hall.

Codicil 4th January 1809

John Pope replaced as trustee. To John Firth, Daniel Fowler and Thomas George Knapp all his real and personal estate and effects originally given in his will to John Pope, John Firth and Daniel Fowler, upon the same trusts.

Witnesses: William Forbes, Surgeon, Camberwell  Comfort Baldock  (    ?    ), Middlesex  Elizabeth Spooner, Servant of Mr Pope

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 2nd March 1830

Thomas Blissett Pope of Maidstone, Gentleman.

He appoints his brothers, Robert and Horatio and his friend, Charles Hoar, executors. He gives each of them £100 for their trouble.

He wants to be buried in his vault in Maidstone parish church by the side of his late wife.

His debts, funeral and probate costs  to be first paid from his personal estate.

To his servant Mary Philpot, if in his service at his death, an annuity of £100 for life. Also to her and each of his servants with him at his death, £10 for mourning..

By virtue of the will of his relation, John Pope of Goudhurst, he is entitled to a third of houses, land, household goods, plate, linen, china and effects at Goudhurst and ½ of a house in Maidstone, all subject to the life interest of Sarah widow of John Pope, if she remains his widow. He gives his interest in this to his executors and trustees, who, after the death or remarriage of Sarah Pope, will sell it and stand possessed of the proceeds, upon trust.

To his son Thomas, his own dwelling house in     ?    Street, Maidstone and all furniture, plate, linen, china, wines, spirits and effects for ever.

All his other real estate in Maidstone, Boxley and elsewhere, all his money in the Public Funds and his share of bonds, mortgages,  and other personal estate and effects, to his executors, upon trust, for the use and benefit of his son Thomas, for life. After his death, upon trust, for his children in equal shares at 21 years of age. If he leaves no children or they all die under 21, then upon trust, one fifth of the estate to the children of testator's brother Robert at 21 years of age; one fifth to his brother Horatio at 21 years of age; another fifth to the children of his sister Margaret Argles, widow of John, at 21 years of age; another fifth to the children of his sister Mary Ann Foster, widow of Daniel, at 21 yeas of age and a fifth to the children of his sister Frances Smith,widow, at 21 years of age.

If his son Thomas gets married “leaving his condition, education and family”, trustees to to take from his funds in the Public Funds, a sum not exceeding £4,000 for a suitable marriage settlement....

….....................................................................

He signs the will with a mark, perhaps quite ill ?

Witnesses: William Beale, Solicitor, Maidstone  James M. Penfold  William Morris, his Clerks.

Codicil 6th October 1835

He had given Mary Philpot  and to each of his servants, £10 for mourning. He now revokes this and instead gives William Hodge and his wife, A Mannering and Martha Glover, 19 guineas each for mourning.

To his brothers Robert and Horatio, sisters Frances Smith, Margaret Argles and Mary Ann Foster, £200 over and above that already given.

He had given the proceeds from the sale of the Goudhurst property due to him and income to his from property in Maidstone and Boxley to his trustees, upon trust, for the benefit of his son Thomas for his life and after his death, upon further trust, for his children. If he leaves no children or they die under 21, then upon trust, for the children of testator's brothers and sisters. He now revokes this and the properties in Maidstone and Boxley to be sold, after the death of his son Thomas and proceeds invested in Government or Real securities and divide as follows, one fifth to the children of brother Robert; one fifth to the children of brother Horatio; one fifth each to the children of his sisters, Frances Smith, Margaret Argles and Mary Ann Foster, each fifth shared equally.

He signs the codicil with his mark.

Witnesses: William Beale  J. M. Waterman  John James Fowle ?

Proved 4th February 1836

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 2nd August 1830

Thomas Pope of Maidstone, Gentleman.

He appoints his uncle Horatio Pope of Fant House, Maidstone and John Hollingworth of Turkey Mill, Esquire, his executors and gives them £20 each as a token of his regard. He gives his library to his father Thomas Blissett Pope for life and after his father's death, to Hannah Hollingworth, a daughter of John Hollingworth.

He gives £10 each to Catherine, Mary Ann, Ellen Montague,  William, Montague and [         ] Pope, children of his uncle the Reverend Robert Pope

He gives £10 each to John, Margaret, Marshall, Horatio, Edward, Lucy, Emma, Rosamond, Clara, Lerois and Isabella Hollingworth, children of John Hollingworth.

He gives to his old nurse, Mrs  Mary Spratt of the Common, Rochester, £1 per month for life. His executors to set aside sufficient to fund this and after her death, the fund goes into his residuary personal estate.

He forgives the debts owing to him from John Arthur , Robert Steelton ?, Susan Cozens and Charles Sully.

The residue of his estate, part in the Savings Bank of France, namely, No. 12940 Gaises ? De Eparque et de Preogaux (not clear) and No. 62274 of the same and also part of the 5% Reutes of France, he gives to Meridus Hollingworth, subject to the payment of his legacies and the payment to Mary Spratt.

Witness: William Beale, Solicitor, Maidstone (no other witnesses)

Affidavit 19th April 1837

Charles Hoar of Maidstone, Gentleman, (he was a Solicitor), states, on oath, that he knew the deceased well and has carefully examined the will. He has no doubt that the writing and signature is Thomas Pope's.

Proved 22nd May 1837. Power reserved to John Hollingworth.

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 22nd October 1827

This is Rev Pope's own draft of his will, the draft was  intended to be drawn up into the final will by his solicitor. This never seems to have happened, discrepancies in the will resulted in a rather long and detailed affidavit.

Reverend Robert Pope , formerly of Mersham, late of Great Buckland, Maidstone.

He wishes to be buried , if he dies in reasonable distance, in the grave of his father in Maidstone parish church.

He appoints Horatio Pope of Fant House, Maidstone and Philip Honeywood  Parsons of West Malling, his executors.

He is insured at the Equitable Office at Blackfriars Bridge for £3,000 commenced in 18[  ]. with accumulations it is now about £4,000. The proceeds with his other money, to be invested in Government or Real securities. This to make an annuity for his wife, Elizabeth, of £300 per year for life.  He leaves her his residence at Mersham and use of the furniture, plate, linen, china and his library. An inventory to be made of all these goods. If his wife does not want all the plate, the residue to be sold and the money to go into his residuary personal estate.

His dinner set with his family arms, which was the property of his great uncle, Peter Pope, Esquire of Fenchurch Street and Camberwell Grove, together with 4 silver side dishes, which were presents, 4 silver tureens which he purchased, his portrait in oils, now in the brewing room at Mersham and the portrait of his grandfather in the dining room and all other family portraits in the house, after his wife's death, he gives to his son, William Henry Pope and he entreats him, that unless in great distress, never to part with with any of  these.

He is entitled to several considerable sums of money by the will of the late John Pope, Esquire of Goudhurst and a third part of his house and land called Throwswell and all his real estate and furniture, plate and linen, which is subject to the life interest of  John Pope's wife.

He is also entitled to a considerable sum contingent on the life of Charles Cullen, who lives in Camberwell. If he does not live to receive it then it and all his estate to be divided and equally shared by his children (presumably after his wife's death). They are Catherine Elizabeth Pope, Mary Ann Joselin Pope, Ellen Montague Pope, William Henry, Peter Montague and Robert.

If he lives so long so that the Equitable fund reaches £5,000, his wife to have a annuity of £400 instead of £300, for life. After her death the fund to be equally shared by his children.

Witnessed on the 27th (sic) October 1827 by Alfred Briggs  R. Chittenden  G. E. Jemmett

Affidavit 12th March 1841

John Maxon Clabon of Town Malling, Solicitor and Alfred Briggs of Ashford, Gentleman, state on oath that they knew Rev Pope very well. Clabon made a care search, after Rev Pope's death, among his papers to find a will. He found this will in a chest of drawers in Rev Pope's bedroom. The will is the same as it is now, he found no other will. He states that about 1827, he was Clerk to the late George Elwick Jemmett of Ashford, Solicitor, who was a friend of Rev Pope. During this time he attested the execution of the will. He has carefully examined the document, which states that Mr Jemmett is to prepare the will

The attestation of the will is in the hand of Mr Jemmett. He states that  another witness name, that of  Alfred Briggs is in his hand, that is, Clabon's. The names of the other witnesses, Chittenden and Jemmett are in those individuals own hands. Chittenden was then also a Clerk of Mr Jemmett's.

The will was executed on the 27th of October. He has carefully searched the books of Mr Jemmett but found no reference to the will. He also states that he believed the several interlinings in the will were made before 1838 because Rev Pope left Mersham  in 1834 and Charles Cullen died in 1832 ?

Affidavit 10th April 1841

Charles Hoar of Maidstone, Gentleman, (Solicitor) and William Beale of Maidstone, Gentleman, (Solicitor), state on oath, that they knew Rev Pope very well and were familiar with his handwriting. They have carefully examined the will with it's interlinings added and believe it is in Rev Pope's hand.

Proved 27th April 1841 Power reserved to Philip Honeywood Parsons

141

Here Lyeth [          ]
JOHAN [       ]
[              ]
of February  [    ]
the [          ]
left [          ]
[         ] HENRY  [        ]
ye Body of MARY  Wife
of M[    ] NEWINGTON
who died May ye 6th
1717 Aged 66 [Years]
GEORGE POST  died Oct [    ]
1727 Aged 51 Years
JOHN POST of Chatham died
Oct ye 1[ ] 1727 Aged 30 Years
JOHN NASH POST  died April
ye 27th 1[   ] Aged [  ] Months
ELIZ POST  Wife of the above
GEO. POST [died] [      ] 27th 1740
Aged [  ] [Years]

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 8th October 1727

John Post of Chatham, Upholder (Upholsterer).

He is weak in body.

He wishes to be buried in Maidstone parish church.

To his only son John Nash Post, his farmhouse and farm at Marden of about 127 acres, occupied by Edward Moon, for ever. Also to his son John, 2 small houses in Marden, occupied by [          ] Nash and [                  ] and all his interest in a house known by the sign of the Cock in East Lane, Maidstone, occupied by William Baker, for ever. If his son dies before he is 21, then the properties to testator's brothers, William and George and his sister Martha Post, for ever, equally shared.

To his brother in law Duke Mawle, who lives with him, £10, towards putting him out as an apprentice.

To his brothers in law John and Joseph Mawle and Duke Mawle all of his woollen clothes, equally shared.

To his mother Elizabeth Post, his late wife's clothes.

Residue of ready money, securities for money, or due on bills, bonds, mortgages, judgements, and all other debts, credits, rings, plate, linen, woollen, bedding, pewter, brass, copper, household stuff, goods, chattels and personal estate, after his debts, legacies, funeral and probate charges are paid, to his son John at 21 years of age. If he dies before he is 21, then to his brothers William and George and sister Martha, equally shared.

He appoints his brother William and his uncle William Crittenden of Maidstone, Grocer, executors and guardians  of his son, responsible for his care and education.

Witnesses: Charles Smith  Thomas Johnson  William Holmden

Proved 6th November 1727

POST see DARBY

142

[                             ]
STEPHEN Son of EDWD
and DAMARIS PRENTIS
died Sept 14th  1769 Aged 23
DAMARIS PRENTICE
died the 29th of March 1786
Aged 75 Years
EDWARD PRENTIS
died July the 17th 1799
Aged 87 Years
PHEBE PRENTIS
died January the 18th 1814
Aged 71 Years
WALTER PRENTIS
died March 16th 1824
Aged 80 Years
SARAH PRENTIS died
July 5th 1833 Aged 83
 
Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 7th July 1823

Walter Prentis of Rochester, Esquire, (Wine Merchant).

His debts, funeral and probate costs to be first paid.

To Ann Sweetman of Rochester, for life, an annuity of £150, in lieu of any claim she may have against him or his executors.

To his sister Sarah Prentis  of Maidstone, Spinster, for life, an annuity of £250.

All his real estate to the use of his 5 children, Walter, Phebe, Edward, Henry and Stephen Prentis, who now live with him, and the heirs of their bodies, equally divided. In default of such heirs of one or more of them, then to the survivors, equally shared. In default of any heirs, then to his own right heirs, for ever. Provided, in case son Stephen Prentis of Maidstone, Wine Merchant, desires to purchase testator's house, with wine vaults in Earl Street, Maidstone, then within 6 months he to give notice in writing of his desire, in this case he makes void such instructions as to his real estate before given, in regard of the house. He devises the house to John  Lake of Bapchild, Farmer, Thomas Wildes of Maidstone, Gentleman, (Solicitor) and his son Henry Prentis, upon trust, they to sell it to Stephen Prentis. The price to be assessed by 2 indifferent persons, one chosen by Stephen and one by his trustees. If the price is agreed and paid, trustees to convey the house to Stephen and the money paid to go into his residuary personal estate.

If Stephen declines to purchase but wishes to hire it, then his other children, when requested by Stephen, to grant a lease to him not exceeding a term of 21 years, at a rent assessed by 2 indifferent persons, chosen as before. Stephen to keep the property in good repair.

To his trustees all his leasehold real estate, granted by the Mayor of Rochester and the Vicar of St. Nicholas, Rochester, patrons of St Catherine's Hospital at Eastgate. His trustees to sell any part, at their discretion.

He gives his household goods and furniture, books, pictures, plate, linen, china and effects in his property in Earl Street, Maidstone, to his children, equally shared.

To his trustees, £100 each. And he gives them his stock in trade, goods, chattels, ready money, debts owed, personal estate and effects, not before bequeathed, upon trust, to, at their discretion, sell and with income from his leaseholds, pay his debts, legacies, funeral and probate costs and duty on the 2 annuities and other legacies. They to invest the residue in Government or Real securities, upon trust to pay the annuities.

After the deaths of Ann Sweetman and Sarah Prentis, the fund to go into his residuary personal estate, upon trust, for his children then living, in equal shares.

He appoints his trustees as his executors and gives to John Lake and Henry Prentis, upon trust, all estate vested in him as a trustee or mortgagee.

Witnesses: H. A. Wildes, R. S. Mann  W. E. Stevens, Clerks to Messrs Wildes, Solicitors, Maidstone

Codicil 7th July 1823

To Ann Sweetman, in addition to her annuity another £100.

To his niece Elizabeth, wife of Leyson Lewis, £250.

To the children of his late niece, Catherine Martineau, then living, £250 equally shared.

To his nephews and nieces, John Prentis Henslow, Edward Prentis Henslow, Ann Henslow and Frances Henslow, £125 each.

To Stephen Prentis, son of  his late first cousin, George Prentis, £300.

To Jane Harris, Widow, Rose Prentis , Elizabeth Prentis and Ann, wife of Anthony Whitting, sisters of Stephen Prentis, £50 each.

To Thomas Baldock, son of his late first cousin, Mary Baldock, £300.

To Mary Ross of Rochester, Widow, [            ] Venning, wife of  [             ] Venning of Frindsbury, Schoolmaster, and Martha Baldock, Spinster, sisters of Thomas Baldock, £50 each.

To his servant Sarah Clothier, £50, if with him at time of his death. To his other female servants, with him at his death, 19 guineas each.

To the 2 female servants living with his sister Sarah, at the time of his death, 19 guineas each.

Witnesses: As for the will.

Proved 22nd April 1824

PURSED see ELVI[ ]

143

[                      ]
PETER READER
[           ] 14th 1739
Aged 68 Years

144

Beneath this Stone  are
deposited the Mortal Remains
of JOHN READER Currier  of
this Town who died the 23rd of
October 1802  Aged 71 Years
Also ISABELLA Relict of the above
who died the 31st of January
1823 Aged 88 Years
Left surviving four Sons and one
Daughter (viz) THOMAS, JOHN,
WALTER, WILLIAM and SARAH
also the above named
WILLIAM READER their
Son who died Oct 1st 1835
Aged 61 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 5th November 1794

John Reader of Maidstone, Currier.

To his wife Isabella, for life, an annuity of £30, charged on his real and personal estate. Also to her, the furniture in her bed chamber and the adjoining best chamber.

To his son William, £200 at 21 years of age, if his personal estate is not sufficient, after payment of his other legacies and debts, he charges it to his real estate.

To his sons Thomas and Walter and his daughter Sarah, wife of Joseph Sawer the Younger, £10 each.

After payment of the annuity to his wife, the legacy to son William, his personal estate is not sufficient and after payment of his other legacies, debts, funeral costs and other related expenditure, he gives his own house in or near Stone Street, Maidstone, to his son John, for ever. And after payment of his debts, legacies, funeral and probate costs, to son John, subject, as aforesaid, the benefit and advantage of his trade or business of a Currier, with his stock in trade, tools and utensils and residue of money, securities for money, book debts, household and other goods and effects not before bequeathed and his personal estate.

He appoints his wife and son Thomas, executors.

Witnesses: Isabella T. Roffe  Jno Roffe  George Whifield

Proved 2nd March 1803

REEVE see CALLANT

145

Sacred to the Memory of
HANNAH Wife of
JOHN RICHARDS Gent
of this Parish who departed
this Life  December the 10th 1807
in the 63rd Year of her Age
Left issue two ? Children
(viz) a Son and Daughter
Also the above said
JOHN RICHARDS Gent
died July 2nd  1808 Aged 69 Years
Also ROBERT Son of the aforesaid
JOHN and HANNAH RICHARDS
who died the 5th of February 1825
Aged 44 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 28th  February 1808

John Richards of Maidstone, Gentleman.

His debts, funeral and probate costs to be first paid.

He appoints his son in law John Gillingham of London, Gentleman and his friend James Pigram of Maidstone, Grocer, executors.

His house tenanted by [        ] Britter, in Maidstone and a piece of land in Boxley in his own occupation and all other real estate, to his daughters, Elizabeth, Harriott, Mary Ann, wife of John Gillingham, Charlotte, Sarah, Sophia and Louisa, for ever, equally shared.

His goods, chattels, money, securities for money, mortgages, bonds, bills, notes, stock, funds and other securities and personal estate, to his daughters, equally shared.

Witnesses: Thomas Assitter  John Doi( ? )  Charles Topping

Proved 31st January 1809

 146

Here lieth the Body of
Mr WM RICHARDSON
who departed this Life
July the 30th 1748 Aged [  ]
Here also lyeth two Children
EDWARD and THOMAS
Here also lyeth Mrs
 CATHERINE RICHARDSON
who died February the 25th
1794 Aged 85 Widow to [the]
above WILLIAM RICHARDSON
and Mother to the Children

147

[                           ]
WILLIAM RIGDEN
Victualler died Feb ye [  ]
1727  Aged 57 Years
Left issue one Son & two Daughters
WILLIAM, JANE & MARY

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 20th November 1725

William Rigden of Maidstone, Victualler.

He is indisposed in health.

To his wife, Margaret, for life, his goods, chattels, debts owed, ready money, household stuff and real estate. After her death, to his 3 children, William, Jane wife of William Heveyman ?, of Boughton Monchelsea ?, Butcher and Mary Rigden, for ever, (equally shared ?).

His wife is his executor.

Witnesses: Mark of Thomas Maplesden  mark of Ann Hysted  Henry Dixon

Proved 20th May 1728

ROBIN[SON] ? see ELLIS

148

[                           ]
JOHES ROGERS Gen obiit 1111 Augusti
MDCLXXXIX etat XXXV
ALICIA BLUNT
Obiit Aprilis die [            ]
Anno Domini MDCCXIV
Aetatis [   ] LVII
Here lieth the Body of
JOHN ROGERS
[                          ]

149

[                         ]
HESTER ROGERS
Obiit July [            ]
[                         ]
GUILLIAMUS ROGERS
Obiit die Octobrus  V[      ]
Anno [         ]
MDCCXL111
[                     ]

150

The Rt. Hon FRANCES Lady
ROMNEY Daughter of
CHARLES late Earl of
Egremont  died 14th Jan 1795
Aged 39 Years
Also
Her Rt Hon Consort
CHARLES
First Earl of ROMNEY
died 1st March 1811
Aged 66 Years

ROSE see MAPLISDEN

RUSSELL see HORSMANDEN

151

Beneath this Stone are
deposited the Remains of Mrs
[ANN] SALMON of this Parish
Spinster who died 11th April
1772 Aged 88 Years
Also of  Mr JOHN SALMON
Brother of the said ANN
SALMON who died 8th of Jan 1774
[                              ]

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 21st September 1771

Ann Salmon of Maidstone, Spinster.

To her niece Margaret Waterman, Widow, an annuity of £10 for life.

To her brother John, £10 for mourning.

To John Waterman, son of Margaret, £200 reduced bank annuities.

Also to Margaret Waterman and her son John, £10 each for mourning.

To James Waterman, son in law of Margaret, £20.

To Robert Salmon, son of her late nephew, John Salmon, £20 and to his sister, £10 at 21 years of age.

To Mrs Hall, £20

To Ann Gill, Spinster, £10.

To Mrs Kemp and Mrs Walter, her next door neighbours, £5 each.

For the poor tenants in Maidstone of her executor, £10, to be distributed as her thinks are “proper objects of charity”.

To Ann Davis her present servant, if with her at her death, £5 and all of her clothes.

After her debts, funeral costs and legacies are paid, the residue of her ready money, securities for money, stocks, plate, rings, jewels, chattels , effects and personal estate, to her nephew Robert Salmon of Hollingbourne, whom she appoints executor.

Witnesses: R. Parker  Thomas Williams

Proved 21st May 1772

SANDERS see BENNETT
SANDERS see COOKE
SANDERS see SWINOCKE

152

Hic Sita  Est ALICIA SAUNDERS
JOANNIS SAUNDERS Generosi
Vidua Obiit  A: MDCLXXV
An At  LXI
ALICIA SAUNDERS
Grand Daughter  of the above said
departed this Life  the 13th
of Nov 1745 Aged 57
MARY CURTEIS died June 8th
1776 Aged 57
ANN CURTEIS  died Nov
the 2nd 1789 Aged 77

153

MS
Hic Sepultus Jacet
JOANNES
SAUNDERS Generoso Sangvine
Cretus Qui Ex ALICIA Uxore Sua
JOANNIS ALCHORNE Armigeri Filia
Quino Liberos Reliquit (Vizt) Duos
Filias AGVLIELMUM et ROBERTUM
Tres Filias ALICIAM MARIAM et
MARTHAM Annos Navis XLVIII Ex
Hac Vita Emigravit XIX Kal Ybris
C.D.D.C Lix
Hic Etiam Humatus  Placide
Quiescit Immatura Hev Nimium Morte
Prareptus  GULIELMUS SAUNDERS
Supradicti JOANNIS SAUNDERS
Filius Oppettiit  CDDC LXXVIII
Pridie Idus Iunii Vixit A XXXVII
Acetiam Hic Requiefeit ROBERTUS
SAUNDERS  Generosus JOANNIS et
ALICIA  Alter Filius  Qui Uxorem Sibi
Adjunxit  ANNAM  Reverendi  JOANNIS
YATES  de Crayford  et Mereworth  in
Hoc Comitatu Rectoris  Filiam Obiit
Decimo Decembris
Anno  Aetatis 77 Domini 1724
Hic Denique Resicitse e Labore
Suo ROBERTUS SAUNDERS
Londini Generosus Praedici ROBERTI
et ANNAE  Filius  Obiit  Decimo
Septimo Die Aprilis
Anno  (Aetatis  52 )
Domini 1741

SAUNDERS see FULLER

SAVAGE see PAULEY

154

Beneath [           ]
[the] Body of
[                    ]
JOSEPH SAWER [      ] ct
[          ] Feb 23rd 183[ ]
Aged [  ] Years

155

Beneath
are deposited the
Remains of
JOHN SAWER
of this Town
who die Octr 8th 1841
Aged 73 Years
Also ELIZABETH his Wife
who died Augst 11th 1848
Aged 72 Years
Also MARY MARTIN SAWER
died Augst 21st 1852 Aged 48 Years

156

[                       ]
SARAH SAWKINS
[who departed this] Life October
[              ] Dans [             ]
die
Ag[                    ]
[                                  ]

SAWKINS see STONARD

SAYER see  GREENHILL

SEAGER see PAGE

157

[                         ]
Mrs ANNE SEAR
Obit 21st January
1769
Aetatis  77
Optima Mater

158

[                            ]
CATHERINE SHARP
died on
January 16th
1786
Aged 85 Years

SHARPEY see AYERST

SKINNER see MAY

159

In [Memory of]
ELIZABETH PO[               ]
died [          ]
in the Year of [our Lord] 1778
[                ]
JOHN [              ]
departed this Life
the 26th of July 1810
Aged 71 Years
MARGARET SMITH
Daughter of
FRANS. SMITH M.D.
and FRANCES his Wife
departed [this Life] [  ] Sept [    ]
Aged 1 Month

160

[In] this Vault [are]
[deposite]d  the [Remains]
FRANCIS SMITH [M.D.]
[who died] the 9th of April [    ]
Aged 52 Years [       ]
MARGARET [SMITH]
Daughter of the above [FRANCIS]
[and] FRANCES his Wife
who died in her infancy
Also JOHN their third Son
died the 4th of March
[    ] Aged 7 Years
[    Covered by Screen    ]
 Also MARGARET [    ] Fifth Daughter
who died the [          ]
of March 1826 Aged 17 Years
Also the Reverend FRANCIS
GROSVENOR SMITH [   ]
[their] eldest Son  who died
[  ] of September [1830]
Aged 29
[                               ]

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 9th July 1810

 Francis Smith of Maidstone, Doctor of Physic.

All his debts, funeral and probate costs to be first paid.

To his wife Frances, all of his real estate, upon trust, to sell. The proceeds to be used for the purposes of his will as follows.

To his wife, an annuity of £200 for life, this is in lieu of  Dower Rights she may claim by any marriage settlement. The annuity not to be paid if she does claim Dower Rights.

Stock in the Bank of England to be purchased in the name of his wife and the Rev. James Reeve Perpetual Curate of Maidstone, to secure the £200 annuity. After her death, the stock to be transferred to his children, in equal shares.

Also to his wife, the use of his plate, linen, china, household goods and furniture, for life. After her death, then to his children, equally shared.

To his son Francis Grosvenor Smith and such other sons brought up to the medical profession, all his books and manuscripts, equally shared. If all sons die before they are 21, then all books relating to medicine, surgery or chemistry, to his friend William Batchelor Bailey of  Northallerton, Yorkshire, Doctor of Physic, if he is then living, if not , they are to be sold and the proceeds to his residuary personal estate.

Remainder of his books and manuscripts to his wife, for life and, after her death to his children, equally shared.

The residue of his goods, chattels , personal estate and effects and money from the sale of his real estate,to his children, equally shared. Money from his real and personal estate to be used to buy stock in the Bank of England for the benefit of his wife and children.

He appoints his wife and James Reeve, guardians of his children, his wife to be his sole executor.

Witnesses: Henry Cutbush  William Cutbush  Richard Allchin

Proved 28th July 1817

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 28th May 1829

Rev. Francis Grosvenor Smith, of Loughton, Essex.

To his mother, (Frances), as a “trifling memorial of affection”, his writing desk.

To his sister Frances Smith, Spinster, all his manuscript sermons.

To his cousin Henry Argles, his gold watch and chain.

To Richard William Jennings, husband of his sister, Mary Ann Spong Jennings, his edition of Calmet's Dictionary of the Bible.

To his sisters Elizabeth Smith, Spinster and Mary Ann Spong Jennings, £10 each.

To his wife Emily, such of his furniture, plate, linen and china, useful and ornamental and his wines and liquors, she may wish to keep.

The residue of his estate to his relations and  friends, John Argles, Henry Argles and Richard William Jennings, upon trust, to sell his personal estate not consisting of money, the proceeds, with his cash, to be invested in Public Funds or other good securities.

He has the fullest confidence that his wife will carefully bring up  and educate their daughter Emily, (now an infant). His trustees to pay or permit his wife  to take the rents, profits and dividends of his  residuary estate until his daughter Emily is 21, when the trustees will set aside 50% of his residuary estate , for the benefit of his daughter, free from any interests of any future husband.

His daughter will be able to dispose of this half of his residuary estate by her will.

In case of her death in his wife's lifetime, leaving no will or directions, then the income she has to go to his wife.

In case of his wife's death in the lifetime of his daughter, the other half of the estate to his daughter, at 21 years of age and after her death, to her children.

In default of children of his daughter and with no directions from his daughter by will or otherwise, then the estate to go to his 3 sisters or those then living, equally shared, if only one then to that one, absolutely.

He appoints his wife and Henry Argles, guardians of his daughter during her minority.

Also to his mother, 2 drawings of the Transfiguration and the Aurora ?, drawn for him by his sisters Elizabeth and Mary Ann.

To his sister Frances, all his antique coins and his prints from Wilke's Deliverings ?, all framed and glazed.

To his uncle Edward Smith Grosvenor, Esquire, as a small token of his grateful feelings to him, his dressing case and his copy of Mant's ? Bible.

To his wife, his copy of Hervey's ? Bible.

To his cousins Margaret Argles, Spinster and Elizabeth Argles, Spinster, £5 each, asking them to accept this trifling sum to buy a little memorial to him.

To his friends, Rev. Oswald Sergeant, William Pattison, Esquire and Richard Baddeley, Esquire, a mourning ring each, in case he does not leave any male issue living.

To his nephew William Grosvenor Whitehouse Jennings, his sister's son, , his copy of Cicero in 12 volumes, with Greeevin's notes.

To his wife Emily, his copies of Bentley's Horate, Hey(  ?  )'s Homer's Illiad and Hu(  ?  )'s Essays, not for their intrinsic value but from the estimation she will hold them in from the circumstances  of them being awarded to him as prizes during his studies  at University.

He appoints John Argles, Henry Argles and Richard William Jennings executors, they to give his wife, £30 absolutely.

Witnesses: Winifred Peirson  Maria Jennings, Doctors' Commons.

Proved 25th February 1831 John Argles, one of the executors, has died since the will was made.

SMITH see WICKING

161

Here lyeth the Body of
ROBT. SOUTHGATE
of Maidstone
Fruiterer who departed this
Life Septem the 25th 1709
Aged 56 Years
Left issue one Son and
two Daughters (viz) ROBT,
[          [ and ELIZ
Here lyeth the Body of ANN the Wife
of ROBT. SOUTHGATE who died May
the 1[ ] 1739 Aged 74 Years
ROBT SOUTHGATE Son of
the above ROBT & ANN SOUTHGATE
 died April ye 25th 1752 Aged 54 Years
Here also lieth ROBT SOUTHGATE
Son of the above ROBT SOUTHGATE
who died [  ] Oct 1771 Aged
40 Years
JOHN SOUTHGATE Son of ROBT SOUTHGATE
Junr died Novmr ye 12th 17[  ]
Aged [  ] Months

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 31st October 1738

Ann Southgate of Maidstone, Widow.

She wishes to be buried in All Saints church, Maidstone, in the grave of her late husband.

To her son Robert, £10, her silver tankard, her pier looking glass hanging in her fore chamber and she forgives all sums he may owe her.

To Ann Hollister, £50, in remembrance of “her dear mother”, also a silver salver, silver milk pot, silver tea strainer, silver inkhorn, pair of fine Holland sheets, pair of fine Holland pillow coats, a dozen Damask napkins, table clothe marked R.A.S. ,and half dozen Holland napkins, marked cross with blue ?

To grandson Samuel Hollister, £5 and a silver salver.

To grandson Robert Hollister, £5 and a silver porringer and silver spoon , also marked R.A.S.

To grandson Robert Field, £5 and a set of silver casters, sugar dish  and mustard and pepper boxes, a dozen napkins  and table clothe, marked R.M.S.

To grandsons Robert and William Southgate, £5 each and 3 silver salts each.

To grandson Isaac Field, £5 and her silver soup ladle.

To son in law Samuel Hollister, and his wife 20 shillings for a ring each

To her daughter Southgate, a 20 shilling ring.

All her household linen to be equally shared between her son Robert and daughter Elizabeth Field.

To her sister Judith Edmonds, her Turkey silk gown and petticoat.

To the Rev. Benjamin Mills, 1 guinea.

To her servant Jane Taylor, 40 shillings and all her clothes except those 2 items already bequeathed.

She has a bond from Mrs Sarah Smith  and [             ] Brook of Margate, for £50 principal money, she forgives and releases all interest due on the bond. When the £50 is received they to pay her grandsons Samuel and Robert Hollister, £5 each over and above what has already been given.

The residue of her goods, chattels, ready money, debts owed and personal estate,after her debts, legacies and funeral costs are paid,  to her daughter Elizabeth Field, who will be her executor.

Witnesses: Anna Maria Fullagar  Samuel Fullagar.

Proved 24th May 1739 Daughter and executor, Elizabeth Field is the wife of Nathaniel Field

 Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 23rd October 1771

Robert Southgate of Maidstone, Victualler.

He is in a bad state of bodily health.

To his wife, Ann, for ever, all the reversion in his third share  of 3 houses at or near St Faith's Green, Maidstone, now or late occupied by Bartholomew Davis, Dorothy Lawrence and [                 ] and all other real estate in Kent. Also to his wife, after his debts and funeral costs are paid, all household goods and implements, ready money, debts owing and personal estate. His wife is his executor.

Witnesses: John Hills  John Tuffe  Samuel Pritener ?

Proved 31st January 1772

162

Fragment

[                                    ]
In Memory of MARY Wife of
the above ROBERT SOUTHGATE
who died July the 11th 1773 Aged
69 Years

SPENCER see HOLAH

SPIRE see STEVENSON

163

Here lieth JANE  Wife of
SAML. STEVENSON
Maltster
who died December
the 30th 1735 Aged
27 Years
[Left] issue one Daugter
named SARAH
Here lyeth ye Body of
MARY STEVENSON second Wife
to SAML. STEVENSON
who died the 5th day of July
1737 Aged 28 Years
[Also the] above said SAMUEL
STEVENSON who died Nov.
[the] 12th  1771 Aged 66 Years
Also MARY STEVENSON
Relict of the above who died
the 1st of August 1787
[                          ]

164

Here lieth DAMARIS Wife of
SAMLL. STEVENSON
Mayor of Maidstone
died May ye 14th 1740 in ye 69th
Year of her Age
Also the above said SAMLL.
STEVENSON died April ye 16th 1750
Age 77 years
and ANN SPIRE  Grand daughter
of the above SAMLL. and DAMARIS
STEVENSON died Dec 30th  1787
Aged 61 Years
Also THOS.  STEVENSON Uncle
of the above ANN SPIRE  died
April 19th 1788 Aged 82 Years

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 7th March 1748 (1749)

Samuel Stevenson of Maidstone, Currier.

He appoints his wife Ruth, and his niece Ann Spier, executors .

His debts and funeral costs to be first paid.

To his sons Samuel, John and Thomas and daughter Mary Walker, 1 shilling each.

To his niece Ann Spirer, a note of hand from Theodor Beacon for £46  14s.

Residue of his estate, to his wife Ruth and Ann Spirer, after payment of his Marriage Bond to his wife, equally shared.

Witnesses: Mary Knett ? John Kirby

Proved 21st April 1750

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated  28th February 1788

Thomas Stevenson  of Maidstone, Distiller.

All his debts, funeral and probate costs to be first paid.

His house in Stone Street, Maidstone, where he lives has been granted on a lease to George Post the Younger of Maidstone, Distiller, in the term of 99 years, upon certain trusts, the lease is dated 26th February 1788 and the indenture of lease is to be carried into execution.

Half of his real estate to his nephew John Walker, for life and after his death, then to Walker's lawful children and then living, absolutely, equally shared.

The other half of his real estate, to Robert Stevenson of Maidstone, Brazier,  (     ?    ) Stevenson of Maidstone, Distiller, to the children of William Stevenson, late of Maidstone, Silversmith, Elizabeth Brown  of Bethersden ?, Widow, Mary Chambers of Maidstone, Widow and Susanna Green of Maidstone, wife of [           ] Green of  London ?, Coal Merchant, or such of them then living, in equal shares, absolutely.

The residue of half of his book debts, ready money, New South Sea Annuities, stock I public funds, money due , secured by nots, bills, bonds and other securities, goods, chattels and personal estate, to nephew John Walker, for ever.

The other half to Robert Stevenson and Strain Stevenson, and children of the late William Stevenson, Elizabeth Brown, Mary Chambers and Susanna Green, for ever, equally shared.

He appoints John Waller and Robert Stevenson executors.

Witnesses: George Burr  John Reader  Stephen Lamprey

Proved 17th May 1788 Power reserved to Robert Stevenson.

165

[                               ]
JOHN STONARD
departed this Life the
16th June 1773 Aged
42 Years
Also his Widow
REBECCA STONARD
Daughter of DANIEL SAWKINS who
departed this Life the 19th of
August 1802 Aged 68 Years

STONEHOUSE see FERRALL

STONEHOUSE see PARKER

STUNT see WEAVER

166

[                           ]
THOMAS SWINOCK
who died April the 5th 170[7 ]
Aged 81 Years
WILLIAM MONCKTON [died]
April the 11th [    ] Aged 21 Years
MARY MONCKTON died
3rd of March 1708 Aged [  ] [Years]

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 17th December 1700

Thomas Swinock of Maidstone.

All his timber wharf or key with an orchard, in Maidstone, near the river, to his grandson Thomas Swinock of Maidstone, Thread-Twister, for ever. He to pay testator's grand daughter, Catherine Hucks, £100, if she is living. If he neglects to pay her, the wharf will go to Catherine instead, for ever.

All his moveable goods, ready money, debts owed, chattels, after payment of his debts, legacies and funeral costs, to his daughter Elizabeth wife of John Hucks of St Thomas, Southwark, Meal Man. Daughter Elizabeth is his sole executor.

Witnesses: Henry Smith  Edward Barrington  John Barrington

Proved 28th August 1707

SWINOCK see  PIERCE

167

Here lyeth the Body of
ROBERT SWINOCKE Gent
Jurat  once Mayor of Maidstone
who departed this Life ye
1st of December 1700 Aged 50
Years left issue two Sons
and two Daughters
Here  [                ]
SWINOCKE [         ]
ROBERT SWINOCKE
Son of the
above [                  ]
dyed the [            ]
(Gap)
Here lyeth the Body of
Mrs ANN SWINOCKE
who departed this Life
March the 25th 1755
Aged 73 Years
(Much later inscription follows)
Here lieth the Body
of ANNA MARGARET
SANDERS Widow of
EDWARD SANDERS Esq
Surgeon She died
on the 6th day of January
1839
Aged 28 Years
Also EDWARD  SANDERS Sen
late Organist  of All Saints Church  
died June 9th 1845
in the 73rd Year of his Age

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 21st January 1845

Edward Sanders of Maidstone, Gentleman.

His real and personal estate to his wife Catherine, absolutely.

Estates vested in him as mortgagee or trustee to his wife and son Geoffrey and son in law Edward Russell, subject to the equities applying to them, he also appoints them to be his executors.

Witnesses: J. C. Stephens, Solicitor, Maidstone, John Barnaby, his Clerk

Proved 1st November 1845. Power reserved to Geoffrey Sanders and Edward Russell.

Note in the Margin, (much unreadable) Seems that Catherine died without administering the will, so administration granted to son Geoffrey. Proved [          ] 1853 ?

There seems to be no inscription for Catherine Sanders but she did leave a will which contains more information than her husband's did.

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 5th November 1845

Catherine Sanders of Maidstone, Widow.

Her property mainly consists of what her husband, Edward left her, and wanting to carry out his intentions, she disposes of the whole of her estate as follows.

First, all her debts, funeral and probate costs to be paid.

To her son  Geoffrey and son in law Edward Russell , all trust or mortgaged estate vested in her. She appoints them her executors.

She gives half of her household goods and furniture, plate, linen and china to her daughter Ellen Frances Sanders. The other half to her son Geoffrey and daughter, Mary Elizabeth, wife of Edward Russell, absolutely, equally shared.

Half of her freehold, leasehold and copyhold real estate, money, securities for money and personal estate, to son Geoffrey and son in law Edward Russell, upon trust, to sell that not consisting of money and invest the proceeds in the Public Funds or Real securities, upon trust.

The other half of her real estate to be kept in good repair and income from it to be paid to her daughter Ellen Frances Sanders, for life. After Ellen's death then the real estate to go as directed by Ellen's will or deed. In default of direction, then upon trust, for the benefit of Ellen's children (if any), at 21 years of age, equally shared.

One quarter of her estate to her son Geoffrey, absolutely and one quarter of the estate to daughter Mary Frances Russell, absolutely.

The trustees can sell the freehold estate, if advantageous, with the consent of daughter Ellen and invest the money in Government or Real securities.

Complex trust details follow very dark and difficult to read

Money from her husband's insurance policy was continued by her for the benefit of those beneficiaries under 21 years of age, for their maintenance and education.

More complex trust details equally difficult to read

Witnesses: J.C. Stephens, Solicitor, Maidstone   John Barnaby, his Clerk

Proved 10th August 1850

168

[                               ]
Under this Stone lye the Remains
of ELIZABETH TANN[ER] ?
Daughter [of] Sr R [TANNER] Knt
formerly of this Parish
who died the 17th of July 1740
in the Eighty Fifth Year of her Age

169

[                               ]
HENRY Son of [ ROBERT]
[and] ELIZABETH [ TASSELL]
died Dec 2nd [    ]
[Aged] [        ] and 21 Days
[                              ]
[ELIZABETH] TASSELL Wife of
[ROBERT] TASSELL Esq
of this Town
[died] [         ] 1833 Aged 51 Years

THEALE see BLOMER

170

In Memory of
GEORGE THOMSON M.D.
Who died the 18th of May 1767
Aged 60 Years
Also the Remains of Mrs
ANN THOMSON
Relict of
the above Dr THOMSON
who died March the 15th 1780
Aged [  ] Years
ELEANOR EDWARDS
Daughter to Mrs THOMSON
died at Hammersmith  the 1[ ]
April 1785 Aged  [  ] Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 11 March 1780

Eleanor Edwards of Maidstone, Spinster.

All of her real estate to her sister Lucy Kent, Widow, for ever but chargeable with the payment of legacies.

To her brothers Oliver and Francis Edwards, Esquires, £50 each, to be paid after payment of her debts, funeral and probate costs are paid.

The residue of her goods, chattels, money, securities for money and personal estate and effects, to her sister Lucy Kent and she appoints her executor.

Witnesses: Benjamin Waterhouse  Thomas Poole  Thomas Durrant Punnett

Proved 28th April 1785.

An unusual thing about this will, which I have never seen before in PCC wills, which are all contemporary copies of the original in large bound books, is that in this case, that the clerk has imitated her signature, which was rather poorly written. The will states “the name or mark of”. So it seems that she was, even 5 years before her death, ill and had difficulty writing. She did sign the will, not in her normal hand and I presume the clerk thought it important to preserve the signature in his copy.

171

[                             ]
[          ]    MARY
M[         ] TILBE [     ] X
[           ] W.R.
ANN TILBE [          ]
31st 1800 Aged [  ]

172

Here lyeth interred
the Body of
NICHOLAS TOKE Gent
who departed this Life
[                     1744]
[       ]  [  ]

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 27th February 1739 (1740)

Nicholas Toke of Maidstone, Gentleman , Citizen and Leather Seller of London.

His debts and funeral costs to be first paid.

To his son in law William Usborne  of Staplehurst, Gentleman, all his real estate in Staplehurst, occupied by Thomas Towne, John Austin, Hannah Usborne, Simon Clarke and Christopher Tillman; also a fee farm rent of £8 per annum from land at Benenden, occupied by Richard Brisland ?, for ever.

To his daughter Mary, wife of Edward Finch, Gentleman, for ever, his farm at Frittenden, occupied by Mrs Baker and his little farm in Frittenden, occupied by Widow Butler.

At his marriage with with Susannah, his present wife, all her estate, real and personal was settled and assured  in trust to her own use. She also released all claim to his estate she may be entitled to as a widow by the Custom of the City of London or otherwise. So, a token of his affection to her, he directs his executors to permit his wife , for life, to have use of his plate, linen, household goods and furniture; she to give an inventory to his executors. After her death, he gives the same to his daughters Constance wife of William Usborne and Mary wife of Edward Finch, equally shared but if either die before his wife, the whole to the survivor.

To the Rev Samuel Weller, Minister of Maidstone, 1 guinea to buy a ring.

To the poor of Maidstone, £10 to be distributed by Mr Weller to those he judges are in greatest need.

To the poor of Staplehurst, £5.

To his nieces Elizabeth and Christian Toke, daughters of his brother William, £100 each.

The residue of his real and personal estate, to William Usborne, for ever, William Usborne is to be his executor.

Witnesses: Sarah Praysell ? Elizabeth Barber  John Mason

Codicil 25th November 1742

Since making the will, he has become legally vested in an estate at Bearstead, held on lease from the Dean and Chapter of Rochester and devised to him by his late wife Susannah. He gives this lease to his son in law William Usborne of Staplehurst. Rest of the will is confirmed.

Witnesses: E.G. Post  George Post  John Mason

Proved 20th June 1744

173

Beneath are deposited the Remains
of JOHN TOMSETT of this Parish
who  departed this Life the  30th of
August 1806
Aged [ ]0 Years
Also three Children JASPER
TOMSETT JUDGE who died February
the 25th 1802 Aged 2 Months
HENRY who died April 20th 1806
Aged 1 Year and [  ] Months
JOHN GREEN JUDGE died May the 13th  1809 ?
Aged 3 Years [  ] Months

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 4th April 1806

John Tomsett of Maidstone, Linen Draper.

All his debts to be paid first.

All his clothes and secretary bookcase to Jasper Tomsett Judge, son of Jasper Judge of Maidstone, Victualler.

To his 2 sisters Mary Fry and Elizabeth wife of Robert Bristy and his sister in law Sarah wife of Jasper Judge, £20 each for mourning.

His leasehold estate , stock in trade, household and other goods, ready money and securities for money, debts owed, chattels, personal estate and effects, to his goods friends James Pigram of Maidstone, Grocer and Thomas Assister of Maidstone, Stone Mason, upon trust, to sell and use the proceeds to pay his debts, funeral and probate charges and invest the residue in the Public Funds or Real securities. They to pay yearly interest to his wife Elizabeth, for life. After her death, trustees to pay to Jasper Tomsett Judge, £500; to Sarah Green Judge, daughter of Jasper Judge, £100 and to John Green Judge, son of Jasper Judge, £200.

To his godsons Thomas Pigram and George Pigram, sons of James Pigram, £5 each.

To Sarah Vinten, now living with Jasper Judge, £50.

To Edward Fry of Ulcombe, Farmer, and John Fry of Lenham, Blacksmith, £5 each.

To each of his trustees, £10.

Residue of money, to his sisters Mary Fry and Elizabeth Bristy, equally shared. If either of them die in the lifetime of his wife, their share to the children of his sisters, equally shared at 21 years of age. In the meantime, interest towards their maintenance and education.

He appoints his wife and trustees his executors.

Witnesses: James Ottaway, Attorney, Staplehurst  James Avery, Maidstone

Codicil 13th August 1806

He has given his leasehold estate, stock in trade, household goods, ready money, securities for money, etc, to James Pigram and Thomas Assister, upon trust, to sell.

It has occurred to him that his wife might wish to carry on his business, so he revokes the sale of the stock in trade. His wife is to make it clear that it is her intention to carry on the business within 20 days after his death, then she can do so. So, he now gives her the stock in trade, provided money is invested in securities to ensure his legacies  are all funded. These securities to be in his trustees names and also in his wife's.

Witnesses: James Ottaway (as above)  Jasper Judge

Proved 17th September 1806

174

[                                  ]
[MARIE TUCKER] Widow
of GEORGE TUCKER Esquire with
whom the said MARIE lived in ho
lie wedlocke piouslie & peacablie
the space of 28 yeares and had
issue by him six Sonnes and seaven
Daughters and having lived two
[                                           ]
[                                           ]

TURNER see HORSMONDEN

TURNIS see POLHILL

175

Here's
Interr'd ye Body  of
Mr THO. USBORNE
who departed this
Life Oct ye 2nd
1719
in ye 8[ ] Yeare of his
Age
As
you see
so must you
Be

There is no will for Thomas Usborne but there is an inventory in the Kent Archives at Maidstone, reference : PRC/27/40/199

176

Here lieth the Remains of
ANN WALWYN Relict of
CHARLES WALWYN  died
June 13th 1796 Aged 87 Years
Here likewise lieth  interr'd
the Revd CHARLES WALWYN
School Master of Maidstone
(died before the 13th of May 1742)
Also the Remains of
CHARLES WALWYN
Husband of the above  named
ANN WALWYN
died April 17th 1742
And likewise the Remains of
the Revd FRANCIS WALWYN
[     ] Prebendary of  Canterbury
(died 1770)

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 20th March 1737

Rev. Charles Walwyn the Elder of Maidstone.

He desires to be buried in All Saints church but not in an expensive manner.

All of his debts to be paid from his personal estate, if that is not enough then out of any real estate he leaves.

To his eldest son Charles of Chatham, Gentleman, his patronage of the vicarage of Clifford, Herefordshire and his male heirs, the eldest to be preferred. In default of male heirs, then to his youngest son Rev. Francis Walwyn of University College , Oxford and his male heirs, for ever.

He has entered into a bond to his son Francis, in the penalty of £1,200 dated 18th August 1737 for the payment of £600 at time of his death.

He gives his capital stock in the Bank of England to his son Francis, for ever, to be taken in full payment of money due by virtue of the bond, when the stock is sold. Son Francis is to surrender the bond to be cancelled.

Also to son Francis all his books and manuscripts and the presses these items are in, for ever.

Residue of his personal estate, after payment of his debts, to his sons Charles and Francis, equally shared. He appoints them as his executors.

Witnesses: William Henman  Mary Henman  Thomas Punnett

Proved 13th May 1742 Son Charles has died since the will was made

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 17th March 1770

Rev. Francis Walwyn D.D., of the Precinct of Canterbury Cathedral.

His real estate to his kinsman Thomas Trumper, Junior, son of Thomas Trumper of the Larous ?, Monmouthshire, by Honor his late wife, for ever.

His executors to use £50 in clothing for the poor people in Adisham and Staple, nominated by the curates of those parishes.

To his servants with him at his death, 6 months wages and half of the yearly allowance to each, in lieu of  ? To the 3 who have been with him for 10 years, £5 each.

To his curate at Adisham, 10 guineas for a ring

To his sister in law Ann Walwyn, his silver tea kettle and lamp, pair of silver candlesticks , his best bed, bedding and furniture belonging, his best grate  and chimney furniture, best (looking ?) glass, best set of chairs, best table, 2 of best sets of table linen, 2 pairs of best sheets and as much china, pewter, plates and dishes and kitchen furniture as will be sufficient for her as an housekeeper. Also to her, all the rest of silver plate for her lifetime and after her death, to Thomas Trumper, Junior and his sisters, equally shared. Ann Walwyn is appointed executor.

Residue of goods, chattels and personal estate, to the Rev Francis Hender Foote of Charlton Place in Bishopsbourne and Thomas Atkins of Canterbury, Gentleman, upon trust, to sell all not consisting of money or securities and invest all money in Bank of England stock and pay his sister in law, Ann Walwyn, ½ of the dividends for live. After her death, they to transfer ½ of the stock to the children of Thomas Trumper, Senior, in equal shares.

The other ½ of the dividends to be paid to his cousin, Mary Watkins, for life and after her death the stock to be transferred as before, to the children of Thomas Trumper, Senior, equally shared............

Witnesses: Henage Dering  Fran, Gregory  Benjamin Chandler

Codicil 21st April 1770

To Thomas Trumper, Junior, the large picture of testator's father,

To Lord Willoughby  De Brooke, the picture of Brooke's cousin, the late Mr Duncombe.

To his faithful servant Stephen Marshall, all his clothes.

No witnesses.

Affidavit 30th May 1770

The Rev Lynford Caryl ?, D.D., of the Precincts of Canterbury Cathedral, Prebendary, and Thomas Benson of the same place, Gentleman and Auditor of the Dean and Chapter of Canterbury, state, on oath, that they knew deceased well and are familiar with his handwriting and signature.

They have carefully examined the codicil and confirm it is in the hand of the deceased.

Proved 13th June 1770

177

[                                ]
ESTHER Wife of THO
WATTELL Senior dyed May ye 7th 1717 Aged 68
JANE Wife of THOMAS WATTELL died
November 1st 1794
Aged 78 Years
VALENTINE Son of [                          ]
died 17th Sept 1799 ?
Aged 5 Weeks & 3 Days
Also ANN Daughter of THOS and CHARLOTTE WATTELL
died Febr the 20th 1802
Aged 1 Year
Also the above THOMAS WATTELL
died October 28th 1804
Aged 53 Years
MARY WATTELL
died Sept 11th 1837
Aged 88 Years
J : D

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 6th December 1788

Jane Wattell of Maidstone, Widow.

All her debts, funeral and probate costs to be first paid.

To her son Thomas, £5.

To her daughter Jane, £5.

To her daughter Ann Fowle, wife of Thomas Fowle of Maidstone, Yeoman, £100.

All of her household goods, plate, linen, furniture, farm stock, money in Public Stocks and personal estate and effects, to her daughter Mary Wattell, absolutely.

Daughter Mary  and son in law Thomas Fowle are her executors.

Witnesses: Eliza Steward  Thomas Wildes

Proved 1st December 1794

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 16th October 1804

Thomas Wattell of Maidstone, Farmer.

All his debts, funeral and probate costs to be first paid.

He gives to his wife Charlotte, £100

To his wife and brother in law Thomas Fowle  of Maidstone, Farmer, his freehold house, barn, stables, buildings and parcels of land, of about 15 acres at the Bower in Maidstone, also his freehold woodland  of about 4 acres at Ditton Common, also his ½ share of 2 freehold houses on the east side of Week Street, Maidstone, now or late occupied by James Honey and Stephen Page Seager, also his ½ share in 3 houses , yards, gardens in Hadlow, now or late occupied by [          ] Field,  [           ] Watson and [                    ] and any other freeholds, upon trust. Trustees can sell if they think it expedient.

He also gives them his own  leasehold house , farm and land at Rocky Hill, Maidstone, for the remainder of the term, upon trust. Also the stock, crops and effects in the several farm land he occupies and all household goods, furniture, goods, chattels, money, securities for money, debts and personal estate and effects. They to carry on the farming business and use profits towards the maintenance of his wife and children and the children's  education. His 6 children are, Thomas, John, Joseph, Charlotte, Mary  and Diana ?, until the youngest is 21. He then gives his woodland at Ditton to his 3 sons, equally shared, for ever. 

His leasehold property at Rocky Hill to his son John for the remainder of the lease, if it has not been sold by his trustees. ….........(section difficult to read).

His ½ share of the properties in Week Street and Hadlow, to be sold when his youngest child is 21, unless trustees think it best to carry the businesses there. They can sell the properties at Bower and Rocky Hill if they think fit.    

Trustees are to sell those parts of his personal estate  not consisting of money, not used in the farming business and stand possessed of the proceeds. When his youngest child is 21 or when trustees think it best to discontinue the farming business, they are to invest the money in Parliamentary Stocks or Real securities and receive the annual interest, upon trust for the support of his wife and support and education of his children, if still minors, until the youngest is 21.

Then they are to transfer the principal money , except for £800, with interest, to his 6 children, in equal shares. If any die under 21 but leaving lawful children, their share to that child or children.

Concerning the £800, when his youngest child is 21, the £800 to be invested in Government or Real securities, during the life of his wife and the interest  to be paid to his wife, towards bringing up his children, while minors.

After his wife's death the £800 to be shared equally between his children. Trustees can use their discretion to use money to place his children in the world, (apprenticeships etc.)

His wife and brother in law Thomas Fowle are appointed executors and guardians of his minor children....................

Witnesses: John Steward  Thomas Wildes  E.J. Wildes

Proved 8th January 1805

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 24th July 1822

Mary Wattell of Maidstone, Spinster.

She desires to be buried in Maidstone in same manner as her late mother, John Springet is to be her undertaker.

He debts, funeral and probate costs to be paid as soon as possible.

The Rev Thomas Pearce, late of Sittingbourne, now of Folkestone and George Warner, of Hen ???? Bro???? near Bishops Stortford ?,  Essex, to be her executors.

She is possessed of £1,522 10s in the New 4% Annuities in the Bank of England, the produce of £1,450 transferred from the Navy 5% Annuities pursuant to an act of Parliament passed in the 3rd year of the present reign, (1822).

From this stock she gives to Rev Thomas Pearce, £400, absolutely, Elizabeth Day, daughter of her late friend Thomas Day, Doctor of Physic, £50 absolutely, Susannah Day another daughter of Thomas Day, £50, absolutely, to her nephew John Boorman Wattell, son of her late brother Thomas, £20, absolutely, nephew Joseph Wattell, also a son of Thomas Wattell, £20, absolutely, niece Charlotte Gibbs, wife of Mr Gibbs of Faversham, Grocer, daughter of her late brother Thomas, £50, absolutely and independent of her present or future husband, niece Mary Wattell, another daughter of her brother Thomas, £50, absolutely, niece Anne Wattell, another daughter of her brother Thomas, £50, absolutely, at 21 years of age or day of marriage if earlier, in meantime, dividends towards her maintenance and education.

To Rev Thomas Pearce, £800 of the stock, upon trust, to pay dividends to her niece Ann Warner wife of George Warner, formerly Ann Fowle, Spinster, for life. After her death, if George Warner is then living, the dividends to him for life. After the death of the survivor of them, upon trust, to transfer the £800 stock to their children, equally shared, at 21 years of age or day of marriage, for girls. In the meantime dividends towards their maintenance and education.

Residue of money, securities for money, bank notes, goods, chattels, effects and personal estate, to her niece Ann Warner, absolutely.

Witnesses: George Burr, Junior, Maidstone, Solicitor,  J.G. Shorter his Clerk

Proved 12th October 1837

178

[                                      ] Body of
 [           ] WATTELL who departed
this Life March the 4th  1[   ]
Aged 55 Years
Likewise the Body of THO[MASIN]
his Wife who departed this Life
April the 11th 1765 Aged 79 Years
Also the Body of THOMAS WA[TTELL]
who departed this Life the 8th day
of September 1781 Aged 66 Years
Also the Body of ANN Wife of
DAWBARN WATTELL  who departed
this Life March the 1st 17[  ]
Aged 73 Years
Also the above DAWBARN WATTELL
who departed this Life  the [        ]
[     ]mber 1786 Aged 73
[     ]M So[   ]
[        ]EE d[             ]
Aged 2 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 16th September 1743

Thomasin Wattell, of Maidstone, Widow.

After payment of her debts, funeral and probate costs, she gives her grand daughter Thomasin Wattell, £100 at 21 years of age.

To grand daughter Elizabeth Wattell, £10 at 21 years of age.

Also to grand daughter Thomasin, 4 large silver spoons, silver porringer, her cabinet, the mourning ring she had for her late husband, silver tea spoon, all the best china, all linen and clothes of her late daughter Hester, bed, bedstead, furniture abd all goods in her yellow chamber, to be kept and taken care of by her executor until she is 21.

To her sons Dawbarn and Thomas, £20 each for mourning.

To son Dawbarn, 4 large silver spoons and large silver cup.

To her grand daughter Elizabeth Walter, her small silver cup.

To her son Thomas, 4 large silver spoons.

All her linen and other clothes not before given, to Ann wife of her son Dawbarn.

To her cousin Thomas Wildes and Thomasin his wife, a gold ring of 1 guinea value each.

Reside of linen to sons Dawbarn and Thomas and to grand daughters Thomasin and Elizabeth, equally shared.

Residue of goods, chattels and personal estate, to sons Dawbarn and Thomas, equally shared.

Son Dawbarn is her executor.

Witnesses: Thomasin Wildes  W Walker  Samuel Eastchurch

Proved 26th October 1765

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 23rd February 1778

Thomas Wattell of Maidstone, Gardener.

He gives all his real estate to his wife Jane, for her lifetime and after her death, to his son Thomas, for ever, but subject to conditions later expressed.

He gives his daughters Mary and Ann Wattell, £50 each, after the death of his wife, this to be paid by son Thomas, he charges his real estate with these payments.

He gives the lease granted to him by Beale and Robert Norman ?, of the house and grounds in Maidstone, which he occupies and all other leases for the terms left to his wife Jane and son Thomas, they paying rents and observing covenants.

His business as a gardener and farmer and all other businesses  to be carried on by his wife and son Thomas, as partners, he desires them to live together in his now dwelling house. After his wife's death he gives the leases to his son Thomas absolutely.

To his daughter Jane Wattell, £5 for mourning.

After payment of his debts, legacies, funeral and probate costs, the residue of his money, securities for money, goods, chattels and personal estate, to his wife, son Thomas and daughters Mary and Ann, equally shared. His wife and son to be his executors.

Witnesses: Thomas Durrant Punnett  George Burr  Henry Hills

Proved 7th March 1782

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 23rd December 1785

Dawbarn Wattell of Maidstone, Yeoman.

He gives his 6 houses in West Borough, Maidstone, which he purchased from John Rawlings, now or late occupied by Edward Sutton, Robert Seers, James Sharp, Thomas Mortimer, Thomas Hernden and John Richardson, to his daughter, Thomasin Mortimer, Widow, for life, not to be liable to the control or financial concerns of any future husband. After her death, he gives the properties to his 4 grandsons Fuller Mortimer, William Mortimer, George Mortimer and John Mortimer, equally shared, for ever.

He gives his ½ share of 2 houses in Week Street, Maidstone, late occupied by Robert Gabble and John Hills, now or late by Betty Gabble, widow and James Honey, also a house near the Great Bridge in Maidstone, now occupied by John Honey, to his grand daughter Mary Mortimer, for ever.

The house he now lives in at the Bower, Maidstone, purchased from John Kant and a piece of land  of about 3 acres near the Bower, which he purchased from Dawson Athawea and Peter Athawes Also the farm and land with 2 houses, 2 barns and 2 stables purchased from  Miss Thomas near the Bower, now or late occupied by Martha Danes, widow, Benjamin Sutton, George Martin and himself; also a house , farm and land in Cranbrook and Staplehurst, now or late occupied by Ezekiel Morris, which he purchased from Thomas Luffe; also his house, farm and land in Staplehurst, also occupied by Ezekiel Morris, which he purchased from [               ] Thorpe of Battle, and his house, farm and land in Hucking, now or late occupied by John Young, which he purchased from John Young and Samuel Jones and his wife; also woodland called Godfrey Wood in Wormshill, otherwise, Wormsell; also a house and farm in Stockbury, now or late occupied by John Atwater, purchased from John Young, also all other real estate, to his daughter Mary Mortimer, for life and after her death, to her lawful children, equally shared, are the heirs of their bodies, for ever. In default of such children, then to his own right heirs.

To Thomasin Mortimer an annuity of £!0, for life. Payable from the land he purchased from Miss Thomas, ate occupied by Thomas Britter, now by Martha Dane.

He gives to his grandson William Mortimer, an annuity of £!2 chargeable on his real estate at Hucking, Wormshill and Stockbury............................

To his grandsons Fuller Mortimer and George Mortimer, £50 each at 22 years of age.

To his grand daughters Ann and Elizabeth Pashouse ?, children of his late daughter Elizabeth Pashouse ?,  £50 each , 18 months after testator's death.

If either of them die before they can inherit, the £50 of the one dying will go to his grandson Newbarn Pashouse ?, absolutely.

His grand daughter Mary Mortimer and others in possession of his real estate by virtue of his will can or the guardians of them who are “infants” (under 14 years) lease the property for a term not exceeding 14 years.

Te residue of his money, securities for money, leases, plate, linen, household furniture, corn, cattle, husbandry tackle, chattels, effects and personal estate to his grand daughter Mary Mortimer , absolutely, he appoints her his executor.

Witnesses: Thomas Wattell  George Marten  George Burr

Proved 18th December 1786

WATTS see AYERST

179

Here lyeth the Body of
ANN WEAVER the Elder that died
[  ][ December 1664 Aged 46 Years
            Here lyeth allso                                                                       Here also lieth the Body
            the Body of WILLIAM WEAVER who                                   of ANN WEEKES the Wife
            departed this Life                                                                    of STEPHEN WEEKES and
            July the 15th day                                                                      the only Daughter of
            1676 Aged 63 Years                                                                WILLIAM WEAVER of
            JOHN WEEKS Gent                                                            Maidstone She departed
            died ye 8th May 1753                                                              this Life the Second day
            Aged 68 Years                                                                         of February Anno Dom
            THOS WEEKES                                                                   1703/4 and in 55th Year of
            died Dec 5th 1764                                                                    her Age She left issue
            Aged 47 Years                                                                         2 Sons DANIEL and JOHN
            Also ELIZth  his                                                                    Hic Item
            Wife died Augt 4th                                                                   Deposuit Reliquias
            1770 Aged 54 Years                                                                STEPHANUS WEEKES praeto
            Also THOS WEEKES STUNT                                               hujus Municipii
            Son of WALTER  and                                                                       qui obiit primo die
            ELIZth  STUNT  died                                                           Decembris Anno Dom
            March the 1st 1780                                                                  MDCCXIV
            Aged 4 Years                                                                           Aetatis Suae
            Also WALTER  their Son                                                      LXIX
            died Feby 9th 1791                                                                  Reliquit Duos Filio
            Aged 8 Years                                                                           DANIELEM
            WALTER STUNT                                                                 & JOHANNEM
            died April 24th 1791                                                                ELIZABETH
            Aged 52 Years                                                                         Widow of
                                                                                                           WALTER STUNT
                                                                                                           died May 5th 1829
                                                                                                           Aged 78 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 7th June 1714

Stephen Weekes of Maidstone, Gentleman.

He is sick in body.

To his wife Elizabeth, £5 for mourning.

To his sister Margaret, £5.

To Henry Chuberfield, formerly his father's servant, 10 shillings.

To his son Daniel, an annuity of £10 for life, payable from his real estate, (after mentioned) which he gives to his son John, If Daniel sells the annuity the payments will cease and the real estate will no longer be chargeable.

His real estate, goods and chattels all to son John, for ever, subject to the payment of the £10 annuity to son Daniel.

Son John is his executor.

Witnesses: Robert Newnham  Robert Joy  E. Harris

Codicil 25th November 1714

He gives to son Daniel, a further annuity of £16, making the total £26, for life. This is also chargeable on his real estate and the same conditions apply to the £16 annuity.

If son Daniel should “molest” or “disturb” his brother John or his heirs in regard to him possessing the real estate, then the payment of the annuity will cease.

Witnesses: E. Harris  John Brett  the mark of Robert Cockson

Proved 7th January 1715

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 27th March 1759

Thomas Weekes of Maidstone, Locksmith.

To his wife Elizabeth, for life, all his real estate, she to keep it insured and in good repair. After her death, then to his nephew Walter Stunt, son of his sister Patience, for ever.

His wife can let any of the property for terms not exceeding 14 years

All those lands, woodland and houses at Stalisfield, Throwley and Charing, occupied by William Larkin, John Clark and John Goodwin, the woodland in his own occupation, after his wife's death, he gives to his sister Alicia Weekes and her heirs.

He gives his house with the stable and garden, etc, in Maidstone, behind Middle Row, occupied by Nicholas Rawlings, also after his wife's death, to his sister Patience, wife of Thomas Stunt of Strood, Cordwainer and her heirs, for ever.

His house, stable and garden behind Middle Row occupied by John Brenchley and Peter Franklyn, also after his wife's death, to his sister Elizabeth Weekes and her heirs, for ever and also the house with warehouse, stable and garden, also behind Middle Row, occupied by Frances Barns, widow, being next to the last property, on the west.

His goods, chattels, ready money, debts, stock in trade and personal estate, after his debts, funeral and probate costs are paid, to his wife, to receive the interest for life and after her death, to nephew Walter Stunt for ever.

The residue of his personal estate to nephew, Walter Stunt. His wife, within a year of testator's death to give Walter Stunt Junior,  an account of her executor-ship and value of the personal estate remaining after his debts funeral costs are paid and enter into a Bond with Walter, to pay, within 3 months of her husband's death, to pay Walter such money in his personal estate or permit him to take the value in money, goods or chattels which she will leave at her death.

He appoints his wife sole executor. In case she is pregnant with his child and that child is born alive, he gives all his estate to that child, after his wife's death.

Witnesses: William Arnold  Samuel Fullagar  Charles Fullagar

Proved 20th December 1764

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 22nd April 1791

Walter Stunt of Maidstone, Ironmonger.

He appoints his wife Elizabeth, his brother in law William Dann of Gillingham, Gentleman, his friend Flint Stacey of Maidstone, Brewer and John Wise of Maidstone, Brewer, his executors.

He gives his executors, all his real estate, upon trust, for the benefit of his wife Elizabeth for her lifetime, to have the rents and profits. They are to invest enough money to produce sufficient funds to pay £2,000 each to his children at 21 years of age or marriage day, if earlier, for his daughters.

After his wife's death, then the residuary estate  to his children, as she directs by her will. In default of direction, then to the benefit of their children, equally shared. If no children survive to 21 years of age, then to his own right heirs, (as laid out in the laws of intestacy).

He gives his executors, £2,000 upon trust, to invest in Government or Real securities and pay annual dividends to his wife, for life. After her death, then to transfer the trust fund among his children, equally shared at 21 years of age or day of marriage for girls, if earlier....................

Residue of goods, chattels, money, securities for money, personal estate and effects, after payment of his debts, funeral and probate costs, to his wife, absolutely..............................

Witnesses: George Burr  Charles Topping  Samuel Simmons.

Proved 14th May 1791

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 27th September 1828

Elizabeth Stunt of Sittingbourne, Widow.

Three of the executors and trustees of her husband's will, William Dann, Flint Stacey and John Wise are now dead.

She gives to her sons John and William Stunt, all her husband's real estate, equally shared.

She gives to  her daughter Elizabeth, wife of John Tonge, £4,800

She gives to her daughter Ann, wife of Charles Etheridge, £4,800

She gives to her grandsons Edward Carter Hughes, William Hooker Hughes and Henry Marshall Hughes, children of her late daughter Mary Dann Hughes, £4,800, equally divided.

Since the death of her husband, she and the other executors of her husband's will  have paid to her daughters, Elizabeth, Ann and Mary, £2,000 each but to her recollection no release and discharge have been given for the same.

She has paid sums of money to daughters Elizabeth and Ann and their husbands and to her Hughes grandsons, over and above payments and advancements made.

John Tonge and Charles Etheridge are now and probably at her death, more indebted to her for considerable sums.

She has expended money for the advancement of her Hughes grandsons, totalling £580. She directs that the legacy of £4,800 to her daughter Elizabeth and all claims on the legacy of £2,000, she is entitled to by her father's will  to be taken as discharged  to exonerate her estate  and that of her late husband in the event of the estate being called upon to pay the legacy of £2,000 or any part in lieu instead of the sum of £4,800 bequeathed to Elizabeth, she gives £2,800 only.

The money John Tonge shall owe shall be considered  part of her personal estate.

So, it seems that daughters Elizabeth and Ann are to get £2,800 each to allow for debts owed by their husbands.  The Hughes grandsons to equally share £4,800 and the £580  to be deducted and to go into her personal estate.

Her house and garden at Sittingbourne and her ½ share  of a house and garden at Rainham, occupied by [               ] Haite and other real estate , to her sons John and William, equally shared, for ever.

She gives her money, securities for money, credits, goods, chattels, personal estate and effects, after payment of her debts, legacies, funeral and probate costs, to sons John and William, equally shared, for ever. She appoints her sons her executors.

Witnesses: John Arndell Barnard, Currier, Sittingbourne  Richard Curtice, Tailor, Sittingbourne

Codicil 30th March 1829

About the 17th September 1828, she advanced to son in law, John Tonge and his son Walter Stunt Tonge £400 and about the 18th March 1829 lent them the further sum of £1,000 with interest at 4%. They have delivered 2 bonds . Her executors not to demand payment of these sums or any part for 12 months after her death; one fifth of the debt  and interest owed at her death, to her daughter Elizabeth, as part of the legacy bequeathed to her.

One fifth to her 2 surviving Hughes grandsons, Edward and Henry. She gives William's share of their legacy to his brothers, equally shared.

Rest of will confirmed.

Witnesses: Elizabeth Poole  Sarah Armstrong  James Knott  Bradley

Proved 12th June 1829

WEAVER see EBBETT

180

In a Vault beneath
are deposited the Remains of
Mrs MARY WEBSTER
who died November 12th  1837
Aged 73 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 8th March 1837

Mary Webster of Ashford Road, Maidstone, Widow.

She desires to be buried in a leaden coffin and in the parish she dies in. Here debts, funeral and probate costs to be first paid.

To her great nephew Hunter Clark, her gold watch which belonged to her father.

To each of her friends, John Fox Kemp, Elizabeth Sims, Mary Browne and Jane Whitehead, wife of Richard Whitehead, a mourning ring of 4 guineas value.

To John Fox Kemp, £1,000

To Mary Browne, £500

To Elizabeth Sims, £50

To Helen Frazer, widow of Admiral Alexander Frazer, £200

To Richard Whitehead, £200

To William Browne, her executor, £50 for his troubles.

Her executor to put all servants with her at her death into decent mourning.

To Mary Browne, Spinster, 12 dozen , as she chooses, of the wine bequeathed to her by her friend, John Fox. The remainder and the spirits he bequeathed, to John Fox Kemp.

To Jane Whitehead, all her plate, plated articles and books.

To Jane Whitehead and Mary Browne all her clothes, rings, trinkets, jewels and ornaments, equally shared.

If Mary Browne wishes to continue to live in her house for a term not exceeding 3 months following her death, she can do so, rent free, she can use the furniture, plate, linen and china and all other things in the house, except what she has bequeathed to Jane Whitehead.

At the end of 3 months, her executors to sell the furniture and other contents, the proceeds to go into her residuary personal estate.

To her executors all her interest and stock funds, now in a cause of Webster and others in the High Court of Chancery, to which she may be entitled to by the will of her late father, upon trust. After paying the charges incurred by the suit, the residue to be invested in Government or Real securities and interest and dividends to be paid to her nephew Benjamin Hunter Clark, for life and after his death, to transfer the income or sufficient part of it, to her her great nephew towards his maintenance and education Hunter Clark until he is 21, then the fund to be transferred to him but if her dies under 21 years then it to go to Helen Frazer absolutely.

After the death of Benjamin Hunter Clark and and before the funds go to Hunter Clark, executors can use their discretion to sell the estate, not exceeding one third of it and pay income from the invested part to advance Hunter Clark in the world.

Her house in the Ashford Road, where she lives, which she purchased from the trustees of  the late Mrs Warde and Miss Turner, to William and Mary Browne.

Trustees shall, during the life of Jane Whitehead, take rents and profits of the estate to pay to those directed by Jane Whitehead, in default of direction, trustees to pay the rents and profits to Jane Whitehead. After her death, trustees to sell and stand possessed of the money and when all the children of Jane Whitehead are 21, share it equally among them, absolutely. If Jane leaves no children, then the fund, in trust, for whomever Janes directs  by her will. In default of direction, then to Richard Whitehead forever......................................

Residue of the estate, to William and Mary Browne, upon trust, they to convert into money that not consisting of money and invest in Government or Real securities and pay an annuity of £40 to Miss Maria Harris for life and after her death, upon trust, to pay annual income to Jane Whitehead, for life. After the death of Jane Whitehead, the fund to her children at 21 years of age or day of marriage, if earlier, of the the girls, equally shared. If there are no children living, then all to Richard Whitehead. After his death or if he does not survive Jane, then all to Mary Browne, absolutely..............................................

She also appoints Mary Browne as an executor.

Witnesses: William Gurdon Peene, M.D., Maidstone  Richard Wedd, Surgeon, Maidstone  Alexander Randall, Gentleman, Maidstone.

Proved 9th January 1838

WEEKES see FRANCKLYN

WEEKES see WEAVER

181

Beneath
this Stone lies the Body of
SPICER WELDON Esq
Bencher of Lincoln's Inn
He married REBECCA one of
the Daughters and Coheiresses
of WILLIAM DIXON Esq
late Recorder of this Town
who died the 13th of May Anno
Domini 1748 Aged 54 Years
Under the same Stone also lies
buried CATHERINE WELDON
their Daughter  and DIXON
WELDON  their Son She died
the 12th of June  Anno Domini
1739 Aged 4 Years He died
the 9th November  Anno
Domini  1744 Aged 6 Years
Also the Body of Mrs REBECCA
WELDON Widow of  the above
SPICER WELDON Esq
[Died 19th October 1779]

Full Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 23rd February 1775

Rebecca Weldon, Widow, of Bloomsbury.

No 1
Memmorandum Feb 23rd 1775
I Rebecca Weldon of the parish of St George, Bloomsbury Do make these memmorandans  which I beg and hope my dear Son in Law Willm. Dixon, Esq will perform after my decease, as soon as convenient, my request  is as follows
My dear Mr Weldon's picture with the Diamonds which are to set round it with all my Rings, Gold Snuff Box and other Jewellery, Trinkets to my dear Child to her use and disposal to her Child or Children in case she has none then to whom she pleases
2
My Funeral may be as private as decency will permit that Mr Page may be Undertaker and to be carried to Maidstone I desire to be put into a Leaden Coffin that no Body  but my own Family may see me after I am dead except the undertaker as much as is necessary to order things proper I could my own Women Servants Mrs Bass would dress me and  lay me decent in Linen  not to be removed  or carried out of my own Apartment till carried down  to put into the Hearse I would be laid in the same Grave with my dear Husband no monumental Inscription or any other remembrance but my Name on my Coffin I desire to be buried in Linen and have appropriated some things for that purpose as Susan can inform you these underwritten Memorandum I hope you and Mr Dod will comply with as Rings which wish to be given and request Mt Tuite may make them you may perhaps  give more  but I write  down these as I think them quite proper  and I recollect you may think od others  that I have forgot
3
Rings
Sister Weldon Nephew James Weldon and Wife Mr Reddall Saml Marsh Esquire and Wife Wm Selwyn Esq and Wife Nieces Dods Mr Selwyn, Canterbury Mrs Hawkwort, Croyden Miss Wollastall Miss Huxley Mr and Mrs Stainsby Mr Addison Reverend Mr Peter ? Dod  Reverend Mr Eaton Rev???d Mr Ball of Bloomsbury  Reverend Mr Willis if (   ?   ) Sir John Dixon Dyke and Lady to Mrs Sandon five Guineas to her Sister Mrs Martha Landast ?, two guineas

4
These undermentioned Bequests humbly beg to my dear Son in Law Wm Dod Esquire to comply with and pay according I hope he will not think me unreasonable I do not compell it as a Will (nor shall not sign it) as I do not wish to have it come into the Commons it may appear as good dele ???
your own Juchiations ?, to your wife's Father's Relations and to whom for his dear sake who was the most affectionate Father and indulgent Husband claim a great Share of my regard
To my dear Sister Mrs Mary Weldon twenty Guineas                       21. 0. 0.
To my nephew Mr James Weldon ten Guineas                                   10. 0. 0.
To my nephew Mr Francis Weldon ten Guineas                             10. 0. 0.
To my niece Eliz Weldon ten pounds                                                10. 0. 0.
To my niece Sally Weldon  Ditto                                                       10. 0. 0.
To my niece Mary Simpson Ditto                                                     10. 0. 0.
To my niece Jenny Jackson Ditto                                                     10. 0. 0.
To my niece Frances Gandern ? Ditto                                        10. 0. 0.
To my nephew Mr James Weldon his Grandmother's picture  which hangs in my fore parlour  and my Scalloped Silver Waiter with the Weldon Arms and marked under the foot C W to his Son James it was presented from a client of his Uncle's and also £10. 0. 0.
To my dear Friend Mary Walwyn of Canterbury ten Guineas          10. 0. 0.
To Mrs Ann Bass formerly my Servant 5 Guineas and five pounds a year for her life           5. 5. 0.
To my Servant Wm Butler 20 pounds and ten pd a year during his life                                 20. 0. 0.
To my Servant Susan Smith if in my Service two Guineas                                                   2. 2. 0.
To the poor of the parish of Maidstone  to be paid directly ten pounds                         10. 0. 0.
To the poor of the parish of Sutton and Ulcomb in Kent ten pounds                                 10. 0. 0.
To Master George Selwyn and Miss Eliz Selwyn five Guineas each                                  5. 5. 0.
Mr Mercer of Maidstone five Guineas                                                                                   5. 5. 0.
5
My dear Mr Weldon's Picture with the Diamonds that were set round it with my gold Snuff Box and other Jewellery  Trinkets to my dear Daughter and to her disposal  as she pleases or to her Child Catherine Dod my green and gold ( ? ) worked purse with all the pieces of gold  in it to my dear grand Child and God Child Catherine Dod with my little silver Tea Kettle  and Lamp and hand Silver Candlestick and Square Waiter with the Dixon Arms
6
My desire is that ye large picture of my Uncle Pasfield when he was a child which hangs over the Chimney in my Chamber may be given to my dear Daughter provided she will hang it up in her own Room where she sleeps and I hope her Husband Mr Dod will comply with this request from Reba Weldon
7
Worst of the Furniture but do not let it be sold in the House or by auction as to be known to be mine but by a private Sale to some Broker at one do not sell your Grand Mother Weldon's picture nor the picture in Dining Room over the Chimney nor the India Cabinet not six leave Japan Screen nor shell work Castle  nor easy Chair Dressing Chair and two stools all worked do not sell them
8
As I imagine my Servant Wm Butler will not go into Service again should wish him to have Furniture of mine for that purpose  sufficient for one Room that is to say  my Yellow Stuff Damask  Bed Bedstead Feather Bed  Bolster and two Pillows Blankets  and Quilt the Matted Chair  Mahogany Table with one Drawer little Looking Glass in the Back Chamber  Clock in 2 pair of Stairs Fore Room id he likes one of the two little Stove Grates  with Brass Feet Tongs Shovel Poker and Fender the little Pillar and Claw Table covered in green Bays in the 2 pair of Stairs in Fore Room any thing else Mr Dod and my Daughter thinks necessary and useful for him besides what I have desired in my Memorandums

Affidavit 10th November 1779

Rebecca Dodd and Ellen Dodd of Woodford, Essex, Spinsters, state on oath, that they were well acquainted with the deceased and familiar with her handwriting. They have carefully examined the 8 clauses in the document taken to be her last will and agree that the document is in the hand of the deceased.

Proved 18th November 1779. Administration granted to William Dod, Esquire, Rebecca Dod, wife of William Dod, daughter and only child of the deceased, first consenting.

182

Here lieth the Body of
Mr DANIEL WHETLAND
who died March the 16th 1728*
Aged 78 Years
who was twice Mayor of this Town
Also Mrs SARAH WHETLAND
                             [Obscured]                              
And SARAH their Daughter
died January 25th  1744
Aged 46 Years
[       Gap       ]
Mr GEORGE LAUNDER
died April the 18th 1795
in the 72nd Year of his Age
who was Organist 47 Years
to this Town in 1792 he expended
more than £100 towards
the improvement of the Organ

* 1729 in the Modern Calender

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 1st June 1728

Daniel Whetland of Maidstone, Tread Twister.

To his daughter Elizabeth Hodges, widow of John Hodges, late of Wrotham, £100. For better security of this payment, he binds both his real and personal estate for the payment.

To his wife Sarah, his houses in Maidstone or elsewhere for life. His house where he now lives on the south side of the High Street, after his wife's death, to his son Thomas and his grandson John Hodges, for ever, equally shared.

His houses and land  on the north side of Maidstone High Street, occupied by Rachel Ward, widow, Hannah Butson and Mary Brook, widow, to his  grand daughter Sarah Potter, for ever.

Also to son Thomas, £100 after the death of his mother.

To daughter Sarah Potter, £100 after the death of her mother.

To his son Abraham 40 shillings, he gives him no more than this because he is already sufficiently provided for.

To his sister Sarah Barnett of Maidstone, widow, 20 shillings.

To his wife Sarah, who is his executor. All his ready money, bills, bond, debts, plate, linen, household goods, other goods, stock and chattels, after his debts and funeral charges are paid.

Witnesses:James Cripps  James Bromfield  John Barrington.

Proved 5th April 1729

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 12th August 1791

George Launder of Maidstone, Organist.

He is in an “indifferent” state of bodily health.

To Sarah Farras, who lives with him, all the remainder of the lease in his dwelling house in Maidstone with household goods, furniture and implements.

To Mary Baker, who lives with him, £5.

To Richard Court, who lives with Mr Flint Stacey of Maidstone, Brewer, as a livery servant, £5, if he is still with Mr Stacey.

He appoints Flint Stacey his executor. He is to sell and convert into money his plate, musical instruments, books and effects, not before bequeathed. He is also to collect all money due, upon securities or otherwise and after paying his debts, legacies, funeral and probate costs, the residue of money to be paid to Sarah Farras.

Witnesses: Elizabeth Tyrrell   Jno Roffe

Proved 23rd May 1795

183

[                      ]
SOPHIA
Daughter of
[       ]* [&] [SOPHIA] WHICHCORD
[who died] [               ] 18[  ]
[Aged] [  ] Months [            ]
[Also the] above named
SOPHIA Wife of
[       ] WHICHCORD*
[died] March 4th 1842 Aged 50 Years

* John Whichcord the Architect ?

184

Beneath this Stone are
deposited he remains of
Capt. STEPHEN WHITE
who departed this Life
Decr. 22Nd 1832 Aged 48 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 3rd August 1831

Stephen White of Maidstone, Esquire, Captain in H.M. Army

All of his debts, funeral and probate costs to be first paid from his personal estate.

All his real estate and ready money, securities for money, goods, chattels, effects and personal estate to his brother Charles White of Godminster, Somerset, Esquire, absolutely. Appoints brother Charles his executor.

Witnesses: H.A Wilde, Solicitor, Maidstone  William Fitzroy Scudamore T.R. Baldwin, Clerk to Messrs Scudamore and Wilde, Maidstone.

Proved 6th December 1833

WHITE see BARRETT

185

[                                 ]
RICHARD WICKING Gent
died XXIX Jan MDCCLXXVIII
Aged LXXXIV Years
“Pray don't disturb my Dust”
                                                    M. S.                                    M. S.
                                                      95                                        96
                                                    [ ] S.                         R. S.
                                                      97                                        99
                                                Here lieth the Body of  JOHN SMITH
         of Maidstone Draper     
                                                     who departed this Life Sept ye 20th
                                                                              1719
  Aged 62
Here also lieth HANNAH MORGAN
His Daughter  who died 21st Sept
1749 Aged 44

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 18th October 1776

Richard Wicking of Maidstone, Gentleman.

He wishes to be buried in All Saints in “a very deep grave in a leaden coffin and two others” ? He wants the grave covered with  stone or brick imitating William Lewis's  “with a pretty large stone inscribed  with his details  and the words, “Pray don't disturb my Dust”.

After his debts are paid, he gives to Thomas Smith son of the late Rev Jeremiah Smith, £2,000 and to his sister Eleanor Smith, £1,000; to Thomas Smith, son of the late Rev Skinner Smith, £8,000.

To his friend Richard Ireland  of Reigate, Surrey, £200

To Miss Phobe Prentis , £50, his diamond ring, gold watch and chain and little oak case in his chamber.

To his servant Mary Dixon, if still with him at his death, £2,000 and all his furniture, plate, linen, pictures, books, clothes and china, except for things specifically bequeathed. Her legacy not to be subject to the control of any future husband.

Executors to invest  £500 to purchase annuities, of which £100 given by the late Mrs Cork of Maidstone to the use of the Presbyterian Congregation in Maidstone, is vested in trust, that the dividends  or interest to be paid out as the £100 from Mrs Cork is paid and applied.

To the Presbyterian Minister, £20 and to his Clerk, £5.

To Mrs Smith, widow of Jeremiah Smith, Hosier of Cheapside, London, £50.

To Martha Marriott, widow and to Dorcas Marriott, Spinster, £20 each.

To the Rev Wyche, £5

To Christopher Harris, £10

To Susannah Hystead, widow, £10

To Widow Hearnden and Edward Greensted, £5 each.

To Ann Fam? ? Wife of Charles Fam?? of Maidstone, Gardener, 40 shillings.

The sum of £100 to be distributed the poor of Maidstone who do not receive alms, as his executors think are “proper objects of charity”, as follows, £50 on St Thomas Day after his death and £50 on the next St Thomas Day. He has left a list of names who will have preference.

To Widow Jowett, 40 shillings.

He appoints Thomas Milner, William Shipley, William Greene and Edward Ellis the Elder, Shopkeeper, all of Maidstone, Gentlemen, executors. He gives each of them £100 for their troubles.

After his debts, legacies, funeral and probate costs are paid, the residue  of ready money, mortgages, securities for money and effects to his executors, upon trust, for the benefit of St Thomas's and St Luke's Hospitals , London, equally shared.

Witnesses: Robert Edmunds  William Roffe  .

Proved 14th February 1778. One of the executors, Edward Ellis has died since the will was made.

186

Here under interd the Body of
MARY the Wife of JACOB WILLETT
of London Gent and Daughter
of CALEB BANKES of Maidstone
Gent who departed the
15th of Septe 1650  Aetatis  24
Here lieth the Body of
CALEB BANKES Esq who
dyed the [  ] of October 1669
in the 70th Year of his Age
Here also lieth the Body of JOHN
BANKES Gent who died the 22nd
of Dec [    ] in the 53rd  Yeare of his
Age

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 15th September 1669

Caleb Bankes of Maidstone, Gentleman.

To his nephew John Bankes, all his part of lands at Hinkshill and Wilborough, lately the property of his sister Margaret Andrews, widow and late occupied by Thomas Edolph, for ever.

He has lately purchased from nephew John Bankes, land in Headcorn, occupied by William Clegate for £320 , if his nephew John Bankes desires to purchase it within 14 years , it will be conveyed to him.

To his son Sir John Banks, Baronet, his land on the Isle of Sheppey called Homeplace and land and leases on the Manor of Rushenden, land in Boxley and Maidstone, purchased from  William Stanley, now or late occupied by John Cripps and others.

Also 30 acres of and at Lydd, purchased from  from Mr Ruworth ?, called Deerings ?, also land in Maidstone purchased from Mr Upton and the Rectory at Northfleet with land belonging, lately purchased from from Sir John Sedley, for ever. Also all the lands and leases in East Peckham held from the Dean and Chapter of Canterbury.

During the minority of his nephew John Bankes,  he sold 2 farms in Ashford and in B ? ? ? ? ? which were John Bankes' lands to Mr Colte ?, of Ashford, which were of the yearly rent value of £28, for £560, if nephew John requests, once he is 21 and confirms and makes good  the sale of these lands in Ashford and B ? ? ? ? ? to Mr Colte, then his son Sir John Banks shall pay nephew John, £560. If nephew John does not confirm and make good the sale, then the land in Hinkshill and Wilborough, to his son Sir John, for ever.

To his sister Elizabeth Radford, his house in Week Street, Maidstone, formerly a malt house, lately converted into 2 tenements , for her lifetime, she to keep it in good repair and after her death, then to his son Sir John Banks, for ever.

To his sister Lydia Bunker, his house in Maidstone occupied by Mr Wright, for her lifetime, she keeping it in good repair and after her death, to his son Sir John Banks, for ever.

To his sister Mary Weekes, his house in Maidstone which Mrs Shevun ?, lately occupied, for life, she also to keep it in good repair and after her death it goes to his son Sir John Banks for ever.

To his sisters Lydia, Elizabeth, Priscilla and Mary, £10 each to buy gowns, also to them and their children, a gold ring  of 12 shillings value.

To Sir John Jethicke  and his lady £30 for mourning and a gold ring of 12 shillings value.

To Edward Rudge and his wife, to Benjamin Jethicke and  his son, to Mr Willett and his wife, to his grandchildren, Caleb, Martha, Elizabeth and Mary Bankes, children of Sir John Bankes, to Mr Tilson and his wife, to Elizabeth Parker, to Mr Munton, a gold ring each of the value of 12 shillings.

To his cousin Henry Fisher, £5 and a gold ring, to nephew John Bankes, £10 and a gold ring of 12 shillings value.

To Anne Knight of Canterbury, £3 and a gold ring of 12 shillings value.

To 20 poor widows of good report, 20 shillings a year to be nominated and paid by his executor within 14 days of his death.

To Mrs Crumpe and Mrs Wilson, a gold ring of 12 shillings value.

Residue of goods and chattels and real estate, not before bequeathed, to his son Sir John Bankes, who is his sole executor.

Witnesses: Thomas Bennett  John Viney ?

Proved 9th November 1669

187

Translated from the Latin

To
JOSIAH WOODWARD D.D.
Curate of this Church
who carried off by Death within the
 space of about one year of his coming here,
left behind him a very deep Regret at his loss
and to the no little grief of the Poor
especially of the Boys and Girls, whom he
was the first to have trained up in Virtuous ways
and indeed  of the whole Town, passed away
to his Lord on the 6th day of August A.D. 1712
in the 52nd Year of his Age
How eloquent and learned a Preacher he was,
the many Sermons he delivered and Works he printed
bear witness.  To her most dear Husband , a man ornate
with every form of Knowledge and Goodness, lest Posterity
should fail to know his Worth, his deeply sorrowing
Wife, MARTHA WOODWARD , has in most ardent
Affection raised this Tablet

Concise Archdeaconry Court of Canterbury Will Dated 29th January 1710 (1711)

Josiah Woodward D. D.  of Poplar, Middlesex.

To Martha, his wife, all household goods, plate and clothes, to be distributed after her death, to such children of his as behave in a dutiful manner to her.

By a marriage settlement, by way of a Dower, £10 per year , charged on his farm, occupied by Henry Starkey, in Moreton, Essex, as a rent charge, to be paid by his son John.

For some years he has let to Henry Starkey, 2 fields  called Quiver ?, adjoining the   ? ? ? belonging to Upper Hall, of about 37 acres, by which addition the farm occupied by Starkey, the rent is now £120 per annum, of this the £20 is above the jointure of his wife and is to be applied towards the payment of his debts. When his debts are paid, he gives the £20 excess to his wife, for life and after her death, to his son John, for ever.

To his son John, his Manor of Lady Hall alias Upper Hall and his Manor of Bourchiers Hall alias Nether Hall in Moreton, with all Quit Rents, Fines and Emoluments belonging, for ever. Also to son John, his farm at Moreton, occupied by Henry Starkey, after his wife's death, of about 172 acres, also, after his wife's death, the 2 Quiver fields on the farm, about 37 acres, also his wood called Pond Land Grove of about 11 acres, also in Moreton. Also his farm of the Manor of Nether Hall, occupied by Thomas Prentis, also in Moreton, of about 180 acres and 3 acres called Moreton Wood.

His son shall, out of the profits of the latter farm, pay an annuity of £50  to Mary Lowe, Widow and after her death, pay the annuity to Hephzibah Hall, as laid out  by him, in writing on the 23rd of January 1710 (1711), for which he has engaged  his farm occupied by William White in Moreton and on condition his son pays £10 per annum to Anne Cooper, Widow, according to a bond made by testator to William Deacon.

Also to son John, his farm called Physic in Moreton of about 12 acres, now or late occupied by Samuel Sparrow, on condition that he or his heirs  do demand  a rent charge of £10 per annum which is mentioned  in a bond of Settlement on his wife by way of Dower, in case his son or his heirs does not pay this annuity after testator's death, or the annuity to Mrs Lowe, Mrs Hall and Mrs Cooper during their lives or in case his son demand the £10 , if he does, he appoints  his trustee to take the rents and profits of the farm and pay the annuities and pay the residue to his son John.

Also to son John, all his books and papers except those his wife chooses  for her lifetime.

To his daughters Ann and Martha, his farm at Moreton called South End, occupied by William White and 2 fields called Gibb's and 14 acres formerly occupied by Abraham Perry and now by William White in Moreton, with buildings and timber, totalling about 159 acres.

To his friends Henry Hoar  of London, Goldsmith, Frederick Slade ?, Doctor of Physic, Philip Gibbs of London, Factor, John Clark of London, Gentleman and John Hodges, who he appointed trustees and overseers, his farm called Scott's in Moreton, occupied by John Thurgood, of about 20 acres, upon trust, they to sell and pay his debts, the surplus to his son John, from the income from all his real estate, except his wife's Dower , so much as they think proper towards his children's maintenance.. His wife is his sole executor.

To the poor of Moreton, £5

To his wife and his brothers and sisters and his trustees, a gold ring each, inscribed “Live as Dying”.

He desires his trustees and relatives to further is children's education  and give them their pious advice on all occasions  and assist his wife to place them  in the world................................ and that they love  one and other with Christian affection and integrity.

Witnesses: Robert Watts  John Mundee ?,  Elinor Fenne ?

Prove 9th August 1712

WOOTON see BARLOW

188

[                            ]
ROBERT Son of  WILLM.
& REBECCA WRENTMORE
died Feb 5th 1762 Aged one Year & 10 Months

The right hand half of this stone has been cut away and perhaps the height has been reduced, I am assuming that Robert's parents are here as well so, I am including their wills.

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 16th August 1777

William Wrentmore of Maidstone, Maltster.

To his son William, £1,000, out of his stock in trade and book debts owing. If that is not sufficient, then it is to be made up by his personal estate. Also to son William and son in law Richard Holloway, all ready money and securities for money, upon trust, they are to pay annual dividends to his wife Rebecca for her lifetime and after her death, the principal money to son William absolutely.

After payment of his debts, funeral and probate costs, he gives his wife, the residue of his goods, chattels and personal estate, for her lifetime, after her death to son William, absolutely, he to pay his sister Ann Holloway, £700, he therefore leaves Ann the £700. But if after his wife's death , there is insufficient  to pay the legacy, he charges his real estate, when in the possession of son William with the payment.

He gives all his real estate to his wife for life and after her death, he gives it subject to the payment of the £700 to daughter Ann, to his son William, for ever.

If Ann dies in his wife's lifetime, leaving no lawful issue, then the £700 to go into his residuary personal estate, for the benefit of his son William.

Son William and Richard Holloway are his executors

Witnesses: Thomas Durrant Punnett  George Burr  Henry Mills

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 9th August 1782

Rebecca Wrentmore of Maidstone, Widow.

All of her real estate to her son William, for ever.

All her household goods and furniture, plate, linen, china, brewing utensils and effects, to son William,

Her gold watch, diamonds and rings, to the eldest daughter of Richard Holloway and her daughter, Ann wife of Richard Holloway for such eldest daughter at 21 years of age.

All her clothes to her daughter Ann Holloway.

After payment of her debts, funeral and probate costs, the residue of money, securities for money, personal estate and effects, to son William and daughter Ann equally shared, the latter are her executors.

Witnesses: William Stevenson  Abraham Collins  George Burr

Proved 14th March 1788. Son William has died since the will was made, administration granted to daughter Ann Holloway.

YATES see SANDERS

ALL SAINTS, MAIDSTONE, LEDGER INDEX

Adams see Hempson                          Bryant 32                                English 58

Addison 1                                            Burgh see May                        Farmer 59

Addison 2                                            Calder33                                 Farmer see Jackson

Alchorne see Sanders                         Callant 34                               Farthing see Hughes

Aldersey 3                                           Callant 35                               Ferrall 60

Apleton 4                                            Callant 36                               Ferrall see Parker

Apsley 5                                              Carter 37                                 Fletcher 61

Apsley 6                                              Chadwick see Fullagar            Fletcher see Morden

Archer 7                                              Clement 38                             Fogge see Cripps

Arnold 8                                              Cole 39                                   Fox 62

Atkins 9                                              Collison 40                             Francklyn 63

Ayerst 10                                             Colvill 41                                Francklyn 64

Ayerst 11                                             Cooke 42                                 Fullagar 65

Baker 12                                             Cooper see Pauley                  Fullagar 66

Bankes see Willetts                             Corrall 43                                Fullagar see Barrett

Barker see Hollister                            Corrall see Carter                    Fuller 67

Barlow 13                                           Cosford 44                              Gardiner see Curteis

Barlow see Wooton                             Cripps 45                                Gentile see Pope

Barrell 14                                            Cripps 46                                Giles 68

Barrett 15                                            Crockford 47                           Glover 69

Barrett 16                                            Crowder see Johnson              Godden 70

Bartram 17                                          Curteis see Saunders               Godfrey 71 Gransden see Kight

Baxter 18                                            Cutbush 48                              Green 72

Beal see Besbech                                Cutbush see Hills                    Green 73

Beaumont 19                                       Darby 49                                 Greene 74

Beeston 20                                          Darby see Muriell                   Greene 75

Belford 21                                           Davies see Barrett                   Greenhill 76

Bell 22                                                Dawson 50                              Griffiths 77

Bennett 23                                           Day see May                           Hall 78

Besbech 24                                         Derring see English                Hall 79

Blake see Mercer                                Dixon see Weldon                   Hall see Apsley

Blanchard see Elvi[  ]                         Dorrington 51                         Halsnod 80

Bloomer 25                                         Durrant 52                               Harris 81

Blunt see Rogers                                 Ebbett 53                                 Harris 82

Bodman 26                                         Edmeads 54                            Harris 83

Bold 27                                               Edmett 55                               Harris see Pemble

Boots 28                                              Edwards see Thomson            Hartridge see Polhill

Borman see Besbech                          Egremont see Romney            Hassell 84

Bourne 29                                           Elliot see Boots                       Hatley 85

Brenchley see Ferrall                          Ellis 56                                    Haule 86

Brook 30                                             Elvy 57                                   Heely 87

Browne 31                                          English 58                               Heely 88

Hempson 89                            Morgan see Wicking                            Sanders see Cooke

Henslow 90                             Morrice 122                                          Sanders see Swinocke

Hester 91                                 Mortimer 123                                      Saunders 152

Hills 92                                   Mullins see Wooton                             Saunders 153

Hoar 93                                   Muriell 124                                          Saunders see Fuller

Hodges 94                               Nash 125                                          Savage see Pauley

Hodsoll 95                              Newington 126                                   Sawer 154

Holah 96                                 Nightingale see Baxter                       Sawer 155

Hollister 97                             Oare 127                                          Sawkins 156

Hollister see  Ellis                   Okie ? 128                                          Sawkins see Stonard

Hope 98                                  Osborne 129                                          Sayer see Greenhill

Horsmonden 99                      Page 130                                          Seager see Page

Horsmonden 100                    Parker 131                                          Sear 157

Hou[ ? ] see Lacey                  Pauley 132                                          Sharp 158

Hughes 101                             Pierce 133                                          Sharpey see Ayerst

Hull see Ebbett                       Pemble see Belford                              Skinner see May

Hunter 102                              Pett 134                                                Smith 159

Hunter see Henslow                Polhill 135                                          Smith 160

Jackson 103                            Polhill 136                                          Smith see Wicking

Jemmett 104                           Pope 137                                          Southgate 161

Johnson 105                            Pope 138                                          Southgate 162

Jordan 106                              Pope 139                                          Spencer see Holah

Judge see Tomsett                   Pope 140                                          Spire see Stevenson

Kent 107                                 Post 141                                          Stevenson 163

Kight (sic) 108                        Post see Darby                          Stevenson 164

Lacey 109                               Prentis 142                                          Stonard 165

Launder see Whetland Pursed see Elvi[ ? ]                                   Stonehouse see Ferrall

Lewis 110                               Reader 143                                          Stonehouse see Parker

Linfield 111                            Reader 144                                          Stunt see Weaver

Lovett see Pemble                  Reeve see Callant                              Swinock 166  

Maiwell see May                    Richards 145                                       Swinock see Pierce

Maplesden 112                        Richardson 146                                   Swinocke 167

Mares 113                               Rigden 147                                          Tanner 168

Marshall 114                           Robin[son] see Ellis                            Tassell 169

Marsham 115                          Rogers 148                                          Theale see Blomer

Marsham 116                          Rogers 149                                          Thomson 170

Mason 117                              Romney 150                                          Tilbe 171

Mason 118                              Rose see Maplesden                                    Toke 172

May 119                                  Russell see Horsmonden                     Tomsett 173

Maynard see Henslow Salman 151                                         Tucker 174

Mercer 120                             Sanders see Bennett                             Turner see Horsmonden

                                                                                                            Turnis see Polhill

                                                                                                            Usborne 175

                                                                                                            Walwyn 176

                                                                                                            Wattell 177

                                                                                                            Wattell 178

                                                                                                            Weaver 179

                                                                                                            Weaver see Ebbett

                                                                                                            Webster 180

                                                                                                            Weekes  see Francklyn

                                                                                                            Weekes see Weaver

Weldon 181

Whetland 182

Whichcord 183

White 184

White see Barrett

Wicking 185

Willett 186

Woodward 187

Wooton see Barlow

Wrentmore 188

Yates see Sanders