Monumental Inscriptions on the ledgerstones inside All Saints Church, Maidstone

I very much appreciate all the hard work by the Maidstone Archaeological Group in 1996-7 when they recorded all the  ledgers in the church and for their first class plan and index. Many of the stones are very worn and faint, so I pay tribute to their patient and time consuming efforts producing such an accurate record. Where details, especially dates, are completed eroded, I have been able  to restore some of them from the related wills. I have laid out the inscriptions in their original form. The wills are mainly from the Prerogative Court of Canterbury, proved in London, also there are locally proved wills, mainly from the Consistory Court of Canterbury, held in the Kent Archives at Maidstone, where they are available on micro-film; I particularly wish to thank the Archives staff for their excellent  and professional assistance.

D. E. Williams
Borstal
October 31st  2022

ADAMS see HEMPSON

1

Beneath this Stone
are deposited the R[emain]s
of MARY Wi[fe] [of]
WILLIAM ADDISON
who died March the 1st
1796 Aged 70 Years
Also the above named
WILLIAM ADDISON
who died August the 14th
1798 Aged 68 Years
Also Two of their Children
JOHN and CHARLES
who died in their Infancy
Likewise
DERING ADDISON
Son of the above
who died the 19th of Dec.
1820 Aged 61 Years
Also
                        SUSAN [Wife of the above]                           
[                            ]

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 14th March 1818

Derring Addison of Maidstone, Gentleman

All his debts, funeral and probate charges to be first paid.
He appoints his son, William and brother in law William Browne of Maidstone, Chemist and Druggist as his executors.

He gives them £800, upon trust, they to invest this sum, in their names, in the Public Funds or Real securities. Dividends to be paid to his wife, Maria*, for her lifetime, on condition that she leaves his house after his death.
After her death or if she has refused to leave the house the £800 to become part of his residuary personal estate.

The residue of his money and securities , bills, bonds, notes, mortgages, book debts, goods, chattels effects and personal estate, (subject to the payment of his debts, funeral and probate charges), to his son William and William Browne.

They to sell his estate which does not consist of money and invest in the Public Funds, upon trust, the funds and securities for the benefit of his son William and his other children, including any not yet born, in equal shares at their respective ages of 21 years. If any die under 21, leaving lawful issue, the parent's share to that child or children at 21 years....................

Interest to be used during their minorities towards their maintenance and education . If none of his children live to be 21, then his money to his next of kin according to the laws of intestacy...........

Witnesses: Chas. Topping  and  Jno Scoons

Proved 4th January 1821 Power reserved to William Addison

Note in the margin, 20th July 1830 Administration granted to William Addison, the surviving executor.

* I presume Maria is his second wife, see no. 2

2

[                                    ]
CHARLES GREENSTREET ADDISON
Son of DERRING & SUSAN ADDISON
died August 23rd 1810
Aged 3 Years and 3 Months

ALCHORNE  see SANDERS

3

Hic jacet una duobos Filiis
THOMA et SAMUELE ante patrem
[Extinctis FARNHAMUS] ALDERSEY
Familia non minus opulenta quam
Vetustas prognatus liboros quatuor
Ex conjuge SARA adhue viva duos
Mares totidemque foeminas  sibi
Superstites reliquit Maidsonii
Ubi etiam laudatam vitam egit
Piam  moterm obiit KAL Januarii
Anno  Redemptionis humanae
MDCLXXXVI           Aetatis LXIII

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury  Will Dated 12th March 1684

Farnham Aldersey of Maidstone, Gentleman.
Unusually no religious preamble.
To his wife, Sarah, all the furniture of his red chamber with hangings. To his son, Farnham, the furniture of his best chamber, with the hangings.
His silver flagon with the Aldersey arms to son Farnham at 24 years of age or marriage, if before with the approval of his mother and trustees. In the meantime, his wife has the use of it.

Household stuff in his daughter, Elizabeth Aldersey's chamber to Elizabeth, except the hangings, which will remain.

To son John, after his mother's death, the silver flagon and some of his silver plates.

To son Farnham, his statute books and his scruton in his study.
Also to  Farnham, his Latin and Greek books in the study. His English books to be equally divided between his two sons, Farnham and John, when Farnham is 21.

Linen, plate and household stuff, not before given, to his wife and son, Farnham, equally shared.

His lands, woods, houses as follows, to his wife, all his and in Iwade in his own occupation, for life and, after her death, to son John for ever.
Also to his wife, for life, his house in Eastland where Mr Edward Maphson, Henry Cobflich, Josiah Hodeor and Mr Wriothesly live, with the stable, outhouses, nursery, orchard, cherry garden and apple garden, situated in Willington Street, Maidstone, in his own occupation or that of [         ]
Smithman. His wife to keep the property on good repair and pay the Lord's rent and after her death, to son Farnham for ever.

His wife can dwell in his house and use the orchard and garden freely until son Farnham is 21 or marries, if earlier. In Son Farnham is to marry, he must give 9 months notice to his mother. To son Farnham, his dwelling house at 24 years of age or on his marriage, if earlier, for ever.

To son Farnham, his Manor of Borener ?, with the house, lately or now let to John Chambers and Simon Bennett and the woodland, except the two Churchfield Woods and that end of Brockwell Bank next the street and Roundwood). He gives the felling of it (provided it is felled before his son Farnham is 24) to his executors, until Middlemass after his son is 24, towards paying his debts, legacies and daughter Elizabeth's portion and after he gives the woods to son Farnham for ever. The felling will not go ahead if son Farnham pays his executors a sum the the felling would have produced.

To son Farnham, for ever, the house and land in Willington Street, lately purchased from Richard Allen  of Rochester Esquire; also the house, stables, orchard, hop garden and woods  in his occupation or that of Edmond Southen and a third of two fields in Willington Street lately bought from Andrew Hills of Leeds, Carpenter, at 24 years of age or marriage, if earlier.

Also to son Farnham, for ever, his farm called Little Okely at Higham, occupied by Edmund Peirson, Gentleman, at 21 years of age.

To son John, for ever, his house and lands at Harrisons in Ulcombe now or late occupied by Robert Baker, at 21 years of age.
Also to John, for ever, Highwood in Wormshill and his land called Dawnes Hills ?, of 2 acres in Bredgar and Wormshill, now occupied by himself or William Mallenger, at 21 years of age.

To daughter Elizabeth, £800 and until that sum is paid, she is to be paid 5% interest by his executors.

To his grand daughter Sarah Knowler, £100, after his debts and funeral costs and daughter Elizabeth's portion are paid. The £100 is to be put out at interest by her father, John Knowler of Ospringe, Gentleman at the rate of 5% and the £100 paid when she is 18 or on day of marriage. If she dies before then, the money to her sister, Catherine Knowler.
To son in law, John Knowler and his wife Mary, £5 for mourning.

To his nephews, Thomas, Henry and William Aldersey, Gentlemen, , nephew Kenwrith ?, and his wife and to his old friend Thomas Alcocke and Grissell, his wife and his sister, Elizabeth Picke of Han????l, widow, a mourning ring of 20 shillings value.

He appoints his wife, Sarah as his executor and friend, Major Brett Netters and kinsman, James Reader, both of Maidstone, Gentlemen, overseers and trustees of his will.
His executor and trustees to sell his house in London, in Silver Street, alias Field Lands in Fetter Lane.

To son John, £200 to put him out to good employment to the law or as a merchant, as he shall like.

To every servant with him at his death, 10 shillings each.

Witnesses: Mary Barnes  Constance Russell  William Bosse  John Lambe

Proved 25th January 1686 (1687)

4

Here Lyeth
the Body of ELIZABETH
Wife of
JAMES APLETON
who died November
the 9th 1717 Aged 44 Years
Here Lyeth the Body of
 the abovesaid JAMES
APLETON
who Departed this Life
January ye 4th 1736
Aged 64 Years
[Also] of
[JEREMIA]H
APPLE[TON] died the 29th
March 17[ ]6 Aged
10 Months [and] 7 Days

5

[                   ]
[      ]TER APSL[EY]
[                 ] 1712
[Here] Lyeth the Body of
ELIZABETH HALL
W[ife] of MORGAN HALL
Daughter of Mr GEO
& MARY APSLEY
who died August
24th 1736 Aged
30 Years
Here yeth the Body of
GEO [A]PSLEY
[                   ]
[          ] HALL
Son of MORGAN and  M[ARY]
[ELIZA]B[E]TH  of this to[wn[
[who died] [         ] 7th 1783
A[ged] [  ] [Years]

6

[                           ]
MARY APSLEY
[                     ] 1717
[                       ]
[who died] 19th April
17[  ] [in the] 25th Year of her Age

7

[                   ]
DOROTHY ARCHER
Wife of GEO ARCHER
died March the 16th 1735
Aged 55 Years
Also the said GEO ARCHER
who died Jan the 26th 1744/5
Aged 69 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 2nd December 1742

George Archer of Maidstone, Threadtwister
His debts to be first paid from his personal estate.
To John and Richard Archer, two sons of Benjamin Archer of Boughton Aluph, Husbandman, when the youngest is 21, his 3 houses with gardens in East Malling, 2 of which are occupied by [          ] Judkin and  [          ] Newman, the other one is empty, formerly occupied by Widow Roy ?, for ever, shared equally.

To Robert Archer, another son of Benjamin Archer, at 21 years of age, his house with yard and garden on Gabriel's Hill, Maidstone, occupied by Robert Cutbush, for ever.

To George Archer, another son of Benjamin Archer, at 21 years of age, his house with yard and garden on Gabriel's Hill, adjoining the last mentioned, now empty, for ever. If any of these brothers die under 21 years, his legacy to the survivors, equally shared.

To Mary Archer, daughter of Benjamin Archer, £100 at 21 years of age and half of the woman's clothing in his custody, at his death or when she is 23, she will then, at 23, have £50 more and rest of the clothing. If she dies before she is 23, her brothers to equally share the legacy.

To George Archer, a diamond ring at 21 years of age.

His executors to preserve his books, clothes, household and other linen, upon trust, until the 4 sons of Benjamin Archer are 21 and then shared equally among them.

The rest of his goods, chattels and personal estate to be sold as soon as possible and receive the rents of the properties bequeathed until the Archer brothers are all over 21 and then share the money equally between them.

He appoints Thomas Argles of Maidstone, Upholder, Edward Argles of Maidstone, Grocer  and John Alexander of Maidstone, Carrier, executors and trustees.
To each of them the yearly sum of 1 guinea for their care and trouble until the several divisions and trusts take effect.

Witnesses: John Rogers  Jonathan Rogers  John Mason

Proved 19th February 1744 (1745)

8
(Fragment)

[Sacred]
[to the] [M]emory of
WILLIAM ARNOLD
Surgeon [and Apothecary]
[died 1784]

(Possibly the William Arnold below ?)

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 1st May 1784

William Arnold of Maidstone, Apothecary
He is sick and weak in body.
To his son in law and daughter, William and Mary Charles his two houses with yards and gardens  in Weymouth and Melcombe Regis on the Melcombe Regis side, Dorset [occupied by] John Caply and E. Sparkes ?, during their lifetimes. After the death of the survivor, then to his grandson, Thomas Charles, for ever.

Also to his above son in law and daughter,  his house in two dwellings, with gardens oast houses and pieces of land belonging, in Weavering Street, Boxley, for ever but upon condition. They or one of them to pay to his wife, Sarah, an annuity of £40 for her lifetime.

The rest and residue of ready money, securities for money, household goods, stock in the shop, book debts, bonds, notes, plate, linen, chattels, effects and personal estate, after payment of his debts and funeral charges, to his above son in law and daughter, for ever. He also appoints them as executors.

Witnesses: H. Groombridge  John Saunders  Mary Bates

Codicil 3rd May 1784
He ratifies his will.
He now empowers his son in law and daughter to sell the property on Melcomb Regis  when they think fit. The proceeds to be invested at interest and applied to the intents of the will

Witnesses: As for the will

Proved 11th August 1784. Power reserved to Mary Charles

9

Beneath this Stone lies the
Body of
WILLIAM FOSTER ATKINS
who died March 13th 1828
Aged 26 Years
Also THOMAS ATKINS
of Hawkhurst formerly of this Town
who died April 13th 1840
Age 75 Years
Also BARBARA Widow of the above named
THOMAS ATKINS
who died Dec 5th 1855
Aged 83 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 25th October 1837

Thomas Atkins of Maidstone, Banker, now of Hawkhurst, Gentleman.
He gives £100 and all his furniture, linen, china, books, prints, pictures, wines, liquors. Fuel, household effects, (except plate and plated articles)to his wife, Barbara, absolutely.

The house he now lives in near Highgate in Hawkhurst, with buildings, garden and land and all other real estate to his wife for the joint lives of herself and Sarah Donald of Aspatria, Cumberland, Spinster. If Sarah Donald dies in his wife's lifetime, then the property to his wife, for ever. If his wife dies before Sarah Donald, then all to Sarah Donald.

To his wife's nephew, Samuel Woodgate Durrant , Attorney at Law, £100  within three months after the death of testator's wife, Barbara.

The residue of his personal estate to his wife and Sarah Donald, for their joint lives, upon trust for his wife. If Sarah Donald dies in his wife's lifetime then all to his wife but if his wife dies in Sarah Donald's lifetime, then all goes to Sarah.

All estate vested in him as trustee or mortgagee to John Mercer Durrant  of Hawkhurst, Yeoman and William Pain Beecham of Hawkhurst, Gentleman.

He appoints his wife and Sarah Donald, executors.

Witnesses: Mary Jeffery of Cheriton, Spinster  John Jeffery, Solicitor of Hastings, George William Walker, Clerk to Messrs Beecham and Upperton, Solicitors, Hawkhurst.

Proved 30th June 1840

10

Here [Lyeth the] Body of
[JOHN AYERST] of
Maidstone who departed
this Life the Ninth
of October 1675 in the
41st Year of his Age

[        ] AYERST
[                  ] 17[  ]
Here Lyeth also
the Body of SARAH WATTS
Daughter of the said
JOHN AYERST and wife
of EDMOND WATTS
Citizen of London who
changed this Life  for another
and a Better Aug 19th 1720
in the 45th Year of her Age
Here Lyeth the Body of
Mrs SARAH WATTS
[                             ]

11

Here Lyeth
ye Body of JANE Wife
of WILLIAM AYERST
Junr who departed
this Life April ye 16th
1709
Aged 26 Years
Left issue one
Daughter
JANE SHARPEY
Daughter of the above
said JANE AYERST
died March 16th 1781
Aged 73 Years
JANE SHARPEY died
Nov the 18th 1801
Aged [69]Years
Also MARY SHARPEY
died Febr [  ] 181[ ]
Aged 68 Years

12

Here Lieth the Body of
WILLIAM BAKER Cordwainer
who died April ye 28th 1716 Aged
[  ] Years left Issue one Son
Here also Lieth  the Body of
 ELINOR BAKER late Wife of
WM. BAKER who died
Jan ye 23rd 1732 Aged
80 Years
Here also Lieth  the Body of
WILLIAM BAKER Son of
WILLIAM and SUSANNAH BAKER
who died November the 9th
1733 Aged 47 Years
[left] issue one Daughter
[                              ]

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 16th  March 1715 (1716)

It seems that William Baker, Senior was both a Cordwainer and an Inn Keeper but the victualling business was probably run day to day by his wife and son.

William Baker of Maidstone, Victualler
He leaves the lease of the house he lives in, known by the name of the Cock, to his wife, Elinor and his son William as joint tenants for the remainder of the lease. They to keep it in their own hands and not to transfer the lease or let it., except to Mr Samuel Hollister his Brewer.
They will let or assign the house if they do not want to continue it as a public house, during the remainder of the lease but not to pass it to anyone else than Samuel Hollister if it remains a public house.
When his wife and son have a reason for a Guiler of beer, he advises them to put into each Guile  one seam of malt extraordinary at their own cost and charge.
If they do not follow the will he gives the house and lease to Samuel Hollister
To his wife and son, the residue of his goods, chattels, personal estate, debts owed, ready money,(his debts and funeral costs being first paid), to his wife, four sevenths and to son William, three sevenths.

To Henry Cobstick, Senior, a suite of his clothes.
He appoints his wife and son his executors.
He signs the will with his mark.

Witnesses: Elizabeth King  Elizabeth King Junior  Jane King

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 24th September 1733

William Baker of Maidstone, Victualler
First all his debts to be paid.
To his daughter, Susanna, wife of Nicholas Willard of Rochester,  Shipwright, 13 shillings and 4 pence.
To Nicholas Willard, all his woollen clothes .
All the rest and residue of his personal estate  to his wife, Sarah, she paying his debts and legacies and, he appoints her his executor.

Witnesses: John Stewart  Cuthbert Stewart, (    ?     )

Proved 9th February 1733 (1734 in the modern calendar)

BANKES see WILLETTS

BARKER see HOLLISTER

13

          [ Illegible Earlier Inscription ] 
MARY ELIZABETH Daughter
of JOHN & ELIZABETH BARLOW
    died Novr. 27Th 1829
Aged 18 Months & 12 Days
RICHARD HILTON BARLOW
born 19th Oct 1818
died 19th May 1831

BARLOW see WOOTON

14

Formerly on East Wall of South Chancel Aisle

Hic Jacet Cadaver
ANA BARRELL Uxoris ROBERTI
BARRLELL [Clerici] Cui Peperit Tres
Filios[  ]asove Dvas Castissimo
Thoro [Haec] Obiitt Sexto Die Mai
Anno Dni 1621 Aetatis
Svae 29

15

Here lieth the Body of Mr ROBERT BARRETT
Sen who departed this Life the 9th of December
1699 Aged  Years Sixty Five
Alsoe the Body of JOANE his Wife  who
departed this Life the 4th of July 1670 Aged 3[ ]
Alsoe the Body of WILLIAM  his Son  who departed
this Life the 24th of December 1675 Aged 10 Y[ears]
And alsoe the Body of ROBERT BARRETT  his
Grandson who dyed  the 3rd July 1691
Aged 4 Moneths
MARY WHITE Widow
the 26th day of March 1766
Aged 76 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 24t April 1699

Robert Barrett the Elder of Maidstone, Thread Twister
To his wife, Mary, all her rings, jewels and clothes, except for 1 gold chain, this he gives for her lifetime and after her death, to his daughter, Elizabeth, for ever.

To his wife, £5 per annum for 4 years and the house he now lives in and the adjoining house occupied by Dorothy Cripps, widow, in Week Street, Maidstone. These properties were already settled on her upon their marriage, for her lifetime, she to keep in good repair and after her death, they go to his son, Robert, for ever.

All his houses in Folkestone to his daughter, Elizabeth, for ever. Also to her, £400.

To son Robert, his house called the King's Arms, with land and an orchard, in Boxley, now or late occupied by Anne Boswell, widow . Also his house in Willington Street, Maidstone, occupied by John Woollett; also a piece of woodland he occupies, of about 5 acres adjoining the land before mentioned, on the east side; also his house or farm, with barn, stable and lands in East Sutton, now or late occupied by Simon Bates; also the house and farm, with barn and land in Headcorn, now or late occupied by John Love, for ever, subject to the payment of an annuity of £20 to his son, John, for life.

Rest and residue of goods, chattels, plate, ready money, bills, bonds, mortgages and personal estate ,
after his debts, legacies and funeral charges are paid, to son Robert, for ever. Robert id his executor.

Witnesses: Thomas Cooper,  Edward Rose, George Nichols

Proved 9th January 1699 (1700)

16

Here Lyeth the [Body of]  [           ]
late Wife of Mr ROBERT BARRETT
and Daughter of
JOHN FULLAGAR late of Lan[gley ?]
Gent deced.  Who departed
this Life the 23rd of December
1705 Aged 40 Years
Here Lyeth the Body of  the above
said Mr ROBERT BARRETT
[who] departed this Life
the 13th of December Anno Domi 17[14]
Aged 54 Years
Here Lyeth  the [Body of]
[        ] Daughter of  [                         ]
[                                     ]
[                            ]
Also ROBERT BARRETT
his Son who dyed [              ]
[                  ] 1724 Aged 26 Y[ears]
Underneath are deposited
the Remains of
TIMOTHY DAVIES
born November 28th 1799
died March 22nd  1834

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 25th January 1713 (1714 in modern calendar)

Robert Barrett of Maidstone, Gentleman.

He is weak in body.

His house, dye house, stable, outhouses, yard and garden in Maidstone in his possession and his house called Popehole, with a barn, stable, garden, orchard and parcels of land belonging in Lenham and Boughton Malherbe, lately occupied by Jeffery Filmer,  also his house occupied by Robert Judde and his house, stable, barn and orchard, land and woodland of about 23 acres in Stockbury lately occupied by Robert Greenhill, now by Christopher Foord, which are, by an indenture of 24th December 1685, settled, ( on son, Robert ? )

He  gives to his eldest daughter, Elizabeth Barrett, his house, barn, stable and orchard, called Marsden ?, with land of about 30 acres in Boughon Malherbe occupied by Peter Austen.

To his daughters, Mary and Hester Barrett, his house, barn, outhouse, yard, garden, orchard and land of about 20 acres in Boughton Malherbe, occupied by Edward Love.

To his daughters, Ann and Susan Barrett, his house called Humphreys, with a barn, stables, malt house, outhouse, closes, yards, garden and orchard and about 20 acres of land in Boughton Malherebe, lately occupied by Thomas Britcher, now by Henry Apleton, also his 2 lodges and land and woodland  of about 40 acres in Boughton Malherbe, near to Humphreys, now of late occupied by Henry Apleton, together with his right title and interest and term of years to come, equally shared.

Also to daughters Ann and Susan, after the death of Mary Barrett, widow, his mother in law, (step mother ?), his 2 houses, yards, outhouses, stables and gardens of about 1 acre in week Street, Maidstone, occupied by Dorothy Cripps and Elizabeth Barrett.

To his daughters, Mary and Hester, his house known as the Queen's Arms,*  with the stable and brewhouse, outhouse, garden and orchard, together about 1 acre in Boxley lately occupied by Richard Harrison, now by John Medherst and his small house and orchard in Bearstead and Thurnham in Stinton ? Street, now or late occupied by Thomas Feakins.

His house, barn, stable, outhouse, garden and orchard and land in East Sutton lately occupied by Simon Bates now by Joseph Rugsby; also his house and malthouse, barn, stables, garden and orchard with land of about 12 acres in Grafty Green, Boughton Malherbe, late occupied by Jeffery Filmer now by Edward Cook ?, to be sold by his executors and then pay his debts and legacies. He gives the last properties to daughters, Elizabeth and Mary, who are  his executors. Any surplus money to all his daughters, equally shared.

His daughters to receive the rents and profits of their respective legacies

He appoints daughter, Elizabeth guardian of of his daughter, Susan, until she is 16.

He appoints daughter, Mary guardian of his daughter, Hester, until she is 16.

To his son, Robert and daughters, Elizabeth, Mary, Anne, Susan and Hester, £10 each, within 1 month of his death.

Rest and residue of goods, chattels, household stuff, plate, rings, jewels, ready money, book debts, other debts, rents, arrears of rent, mortgages, bonds, bills, books and personal estate, not already bequeathed, except such plate, linen or other household goods by word of mouth already given, to all his daughters, equally shared after payment of his debts, legacies and funeral costs.

Witnesses: Margaret Shadwell ?, S. Fuller ?, H. Cukow ?

Proved 10th February 1714 (1715)

* Queen's Arms, should this be King's Arms ? See will of his father, above.

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 19th September 1828

Timothy Davies of Maidstone, Saddle and Harness Maker.
He appoints his sister, Sarah Davies of Stone Street, Llandovey, Carmarthenshire, Spinster, his executor. He first directs his funeral and probate costs are paid from his personal estate.

To his sister, Sarah, his freehold house and shop, where he lives, on Gabriel's Hill in Maidstone; also 4 houses on St Faith's Green , Maidstone, occupied by W. Guildersleeves, Richard Tennings, John Norman and Thomas Torrington, which he purchased from [          ] Sloman and 3 cottages in Chancery Lane, Doctor's Fields, Maidstone, occupied by [           ] Iremonger, Widow and [          ]Luckhurst, which he purchased from Robert James Mann; also his house at Wainscott in Frindsbury, occupied by Sarah Ayers, Widow, which he purchased from Lieutenant Baker. Also, the rest and residue of his real estate, all to his sister, Sarah, for her lifetime, subject to the payment of an annuity of £20 to his youngest sister, Esther Davies, for life.

After the death of his sister, Sarah, he gives all the above freehold estate to his sister, Esther Davies, for life and after the death of the survivor of his sisters, then to his nephew, William Hollis Miller of St John's College, Cambridge, son of his late sister, Ann, wife of Captain Miller, for ever.

His sisters can lease all or part of the estate for a term not exceeding 7 years. They to keep the properties in good repair, out of the rents.

All his furniture, stock in trade, ready money, mortgages, bonds, bills, note of hand, securities for money, his shares in the New Kent Life and Annuity Institute and in the Guardian Fire and Insurance Company and all other shares; the residue of his personal estate, to his sister, Sarah, absolutely.

Witnesses:  John Monckton, Solicitor, Maidstone, Edward I Barker, John Kemp, Clerks to Mr Monckton.

Codicil 30th August 1830

Since making the will he has purchased the freehold house and shop on Gabriel's Hill, formerly occupied by James Dodewell, since by [           ] Wakeford and now by Christopher Harris, Linen Draper and where he now lives. He directs that an annuity of £30 is charged on this property for his illegitimate child. He gives the property to John Monckton and his friend, Thomas Hall Durrant, of Maidstone, Grocer, upon trust. They to pay the annuity towards the maintenance and education  of Richard Lewis Davies Tiesdale , now 11 months old, the child of Ann Tiesdale of Maidstone, Spinster. When his son, Richard is 21 he to receive the rents and profits of the property. After his death, if in the lifetime of his sister, Sarah Davies , she to have the property for life and after her death, her sister Esther to have it for life.
After the death of the survivor, then to William Hollis Miller, for ever

Rest of will ratified.

Witnesses: Edward I Barker, John Kemp, J. B. Jude, Clerks to Mr Monckton.

Proved 30th April 1834

17

Beneath this Stone are Deposited
the Remains of
THOMAS BARTRAM
who departed this Life 18th  June [1772]
[Aged] [  ] Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 9th January 1772

Thomas Bartram of Maidstone, Upholder (Upholsterer)
To George Nidsdale of Clement's Lane, Lombard Street, London, Upholder and brother in law, Joseph Nash  of Buckland near Reigate, Surrey, Farmer, £1,400 from his personal estate, upon trust, to invest  in the Public Funds and pay interest earned to his wife Catherine during the minority of any of their children living towards their maintenance and education.

If his wife remarries or does not use the interest as directed, then the trustees are to apply the interest directly.
They are to transfer the principal sum to his child / children at their respective ages of 21.

If he dies leaving no children by his wife or they die under 21, with no issue, then the interest to be paid to his wife for her own benefit, for life. After her death or failure of issue, the £1,400 to his brother, Richard and sister, Mary, wife of Joseph Nash, his sister, Margaret Martin and brother, Robert, equally shared.

After payment of his debts, funeral and probate charges, the residue of his goods, chattels, stock in trade, money, securities for money, personal estate and effects, to his wife, she to bring and educate up his children in  a manner suitable to their rank and station in life.

Remainder of his personal estate, after his wife's death, to his children, as she directs by will or otherwise. She will be guardian of his children but if she does not act in their best interests then the trustees to be guardians. He appoints his wife executor.

Witnesses: Jane Punnett, Durrant Punnett

Proved 7th December 1772

18

[                                    ]
JAMES BAXTER
Died 23rd December 177[ ]
Aged 87 Years
[Also]
ALICIA NIGHTINGALE
Died 20th May 1783
Aged 65 Years

BEAL see BESBECH

19

In Memory of
JOHN DELAP BEAUMONT
who departed this Life  May
31st 1830 Aged 49 Years
Leaving a Widow & 6 Daughters
Also HANNAH MARIA
fourth Daughter of the above
who died Sept 28th 1830
Aged 18 Years
Also MARY JANE his Daughter
who died August 4th 1831
Aged 20 Years
Also CHARLOTTE
Wife of the above
JOHN DELAP BEAUMONT
who died Feb 16th 1842
Aged 56 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 5th March 1830

John Delap Beaumont of Maidstone, Brazier.
He is “ailing in body”.
He appoints his wife, Charlotte, his executor. His debts, funeral and probate charges to be first paid.

He has a policy of Assurance on his life in the London Life Association  Office for £500 dated about the 15th June 1821, this to his wife, absolutely. Also to his wife, his leasehold house, where he lives in Maidstone and adjoining premisses in the occupation of Alfred Lashiner ?, for the remainder of the lease, subject to paying the rents and observing the covenants.

His furniture, fixtures, stock in trade, ready money, securities for money, debts due, personal estate and effects, after payment of his debts, funeral and probate costs, to his wife, Charlotte, absolutely.

Witnesses: M. Monckton, Solicitor, Maidstone, Edward Barker, his Clerk.

Proved 25th August 1830

20

Including a small brass depicting Beeston and his wife kneeling, with their children behind them. The inscription is from the Reverend Cave-Brown's History of All Saints. It is not on the 1996-97 survey, then and now, not visible ?

“Christus Mihi Vita, Mors Mihi Lucrum”
Here Lieth Interred the Bodie of
RICHARD BEESTON, Clerke, Mester of Arts
who departed this Life the 26th Day of Dec 1640
and left issue by ELIZABETH  his Wife
Daughter of JOHN PAWLE, Gent
Fower Sonnes and Three Daughters

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 31st March 1640

Richard Beeston, Vicar of All Saints

To the poor of Yalding, where he was Minister for 32 years, £4 to be distributed by the Overseer of the Poor.

To his cousin William Beeston of H???bethy ?, Gentleman, 40 shillings for a ring of remembrance.

To his niece, Sara Bickman, 40 shillings.

To his niece, Mary Symonds, £5

To each of his maid servants with him at his death, 5 shillings and a pair of gloves.

His goods, chattels, utensils and household implements, plate, jewels and debts not before or later given, to his wife, Elizabeth, for the payment of his debts, legacies and funeral costs. He appoints her as his executor.

To each of his 4 sons, John, Richard, Nicholas, Paul and his 2 daughters, Alice and Elizabeth Beeston a silver gilt spoon with their initials and birth dates engraved for their remembrance.

To his sons, John and Richard, at 21 years of age, £15 each. John was born on the 17th of September 1623, Richard on the 5th October 1632. To his sons, Nicholas and Paul at 21 years of age, £20. Nicholas was born on the 17th of October 1633 , Paul on the 20th March 1635.

To his daughters, Alice and Elizabeth at 18 years of age or day of marriage if earlier, £50 each. If one of them die before then, the survivor has the whole £100. If both die then their brothers to equally share the £100.

To his 2 daughters, all rents and profits  due upon a lease granted by him to Thomas Turner, Gentleman of Loddington, Maidstone on a house with land, called Vinters. The lease is dated 28th December 1639. The income towards their maintenance and education, so that is not chargeable to their mother. If one dies before then, ½ the income to his sons, John and Richard, equally shared, if both die before the end of the lease, the income to sons Richard and Paul, equally shared.

To his wife, for life, his real estate in East Barming and 6 acres in Maidstone by a lane leading to East Farleigh bridge and a house in Maidstone occupied by Thomas Brooke behind Middled Row. This is in lieu of her Dower Rights.

His house called the Bell House, (an inn ?) and land in East Barming leased to Francis Tilden and a little wood of 3 roods, he purchased from the wife and heirs of Daniel Bickman, to his son, Richard for ever.

His other real estate in East Barming and land near the bridge in East Farleigh, to son Paul, after his mother's death, for ever.

To son, John and his lawful heirs of his body, at 21 years of age, his 3 houses in Stone Street, Maidstone and his real estate at Ightham, Wateringbury and Yalding. In default of any heirs, the best of the houses in Stone Street, occupied by Alice, Lady Sackvile, to son Richard, for ever. The adjoining house, which he occupies, to son Richard, for ever. The 3rd house closer to the little bridge, occupied by Norton Cherry, Gentleman, to son Paul for ever, together with the house in Wateringbury before given to son John, if John has no lawful heirs.

To son Richard, land in Yalding given to son John if John leaves no lawful heirs, the property in Ightham to son Richard on the same condition.

His wife to take rents for son John's maintenance and education at school “abroad”, not at home until he is 16 at the cost of £20 per annum.

To son Richard and his lawful heirs, at 21 years of age, his house and land at East Peckham. In default of heirs, then to son John and his  heirs. Until Richard is 21 his mother to receive the rents and also educate him “abroad” until he is 16, with £20 per annum.

To son Paul and his lawful heirs, at 21 years of age, his 2 houses and land  in Frittenden. In default of heirs, then to son John for ever. As before his mother to receive the rents and allow £14 per annum for his education. Son Nicholas also to be educated at £14 per annum.

He appoints Mr John Paule, his father in law, to be Overseer of his will and give him 40 shillings for a ring of remembrance............................................

The will is not witnessed.

Proved 6th February 1641

Note in the margin dated 16th November 1655
The will was not administered by Elizabeth Beeston and is now granted to Elizabeth Garrard, formerly Beeston, the daughter.

21

Here Lieth the Body of
Mrs BRIDGETT [ BELFORD ? ] who died
the 15th of  March  17[ ]8 Aged 75 Years
Also the Body of Mrs MARY
PEMBLE Daughter of Capt 
GUSTAVUS BELFORD
and Sister to Lieut General BELFORD
who died the 24th of February
1774 Aged 58 Years
Also here Lieth the Body of
General  BELFORD many Years
Commander of the First Battalion
of the Royal Artillery who died the
1st of July 1780 Aged 68 Years
Also Mrs ELIZH. LOVETT who died
April the 29th  1785 Aged 66 Years
Also Mrs ESTHER HARRIS another
Daur of Capt GUSTAVUS BELFORD
and Sister to General BELFORD
who died Decr the 16th 1785
Aged 72 Years
 
Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 23rd September 1777

William Belford, General and Colonel, H.M. Own Royal Regiment of Artillery.
To his friend, Reverend Dale Lovet of Town Malling, Middlesex (sic) and Major General William Phillips of Grosvenor Street, Middlesex, £1,000, upon trust, to invest in Public or other securities at their discretion. The interest towards the maintenance and education of William Belford, otherwise,
Barber, now 11 years old and at school in Rochester. When trustees think it is time, they to use principal to purchase a commission in the army or advancement in the world. If William dies before the whole sum can be used, the the £1,000 or what remains to his (legitimate) sons, Gustavus and William , equally shared.

To each of his two sisters, Esther Harris and Elizabeth Lovet, £50 and a gold ring of 1 guinea value.
To each of his trustees, 20 guineas.

Trustees to pay Mary Barber, who lives with him, an annuity of  £20, drawn from his estate.
His real estate to Dale Lovet, John Lade and Charles Robinson, upon trust, half the estate to the benefit of his son, Gustavus, for life, after his death, then to his widow. If he leaves no widow, then to his lawfully begotten children, equally shared. In default of any heirs, to his son, William, for life, after his death, as for Gustavus.

One half of the estate to the benefit of son, William and after his death, in default of any heirs, to Gustavus, in default of any heirs, then to his sisters, Hester Harris and Elizabeth Lovet, equally shared.

Residue of  gods, chattels and personal estate, after his debts, funeral and probate costs are paid, also the annuity to Mary Barber and other legacies, to his trustees, upon trust.
Half of the money of his personal estate,  to the benefit of each of his sons, Gustavus and William.

He appoints his trustees his executors.

Witnesses: Johnson Macarel  Bn. Chandler  Junior  Henry Buckton

Codicil 20th January 1778

100 to Mrs Mary Barber over and above the annuity given. His watch is at the watchmakers.

No Witnesses.

Codicil 30th June 1780

To Mary Barber of Harbledown, an additional annuity of £10, making a total of £30.

He revokes the bequest to his natural son, William Belford, an Ensign in the 13th Regiment of Foot. The interest of the £1,000 in the 3% Bank Annuities to be held, in trust, by Captains Richard Chapman and William Grant, both of the Royal Regiment of Artillery, until his son is 25 and to purchase anything necessary for his advancement in the army. When he is 25 the £1,000 to be transferred to him.

Witnesses: D. Cotton ?, Surgeon,   Ann Weelman ?  Mark of Rosamond Cotton ?

Affidavit 2nd August 1780

John Macarel of Canterbury, Gentleman and Benjamin Chandler of Canterbury, Surgeon, are sworn on oath. They were very well acquainted with General Belford of Harbledown and familiar with his handwriting and signature. They have carefully examined the will and codicils , particularly the one not witnessed , dated 20th January 1778 and agree they are all in in Belford's hand.
22

WILLUS BELL Gen Obiit
26th die May 1698
ANN BELL Ob
July 10th 1741
Aged 79

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 23rd May 1698

William Bell of Maidstone, Gentleman.
He is sick and weak in body.
To his daughter, Elizabeth Bell, his house and land in Boughton Monchelsea.
All the rest of his real estate to his wife Ann, for ever. He appoints his wife executor.

Witnesses: John Clarke  Edward Foord  John Petley

Proved 4th August 1698

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 10th November 1736

Ann Bell of Maidstone, Widow.
To her son in law, Robert Hammond and her daughters, Ann Bell and Martha Bell, her 2 houses and gardens, occupied by Mr [            ] [H]oar ?, the other by Mrs [            ] Hunt, against the Cock alehouse, also 2 other houses, one lately occupied by Samuel Pointer, the other by Thomas Russell, also another house formerly occupied by William Post and lately by Widow Basset. The last 3 houses are in East Lane, Maidstone and were given to her by her late husband William Bell, Gentleman.

Her debts to be paid and her executors to sell as much of her real estate as is needed to pay the debts. And then pay her son, John Bell and daughter Barbara Harris, £10 each.

She gives her goods and personal estate to daughters, Ann and Martha to be her executors.

Witnesses: John Petley  Henry Nurse Clifford, Senior  David Petley

Proved 11th July 1741. Power reserved to Martha Bell

23

[                            ]
[                            ]
Also HORACE their [Son]
died November  the [  ] [1]81[ ]
Aged 9 Years
Also HENRY JOH[N] [th]eir [Son]
died January the [  ] 182[3]
Aged 22 years
Also FREDERIC WILLIAM th[eir] Son
died the 10th of February 18[  ]
Aged 16 Years
Also ELIZABETH BENNETT
died the 3rd of July 1832
Aged [5]9 Years
Also EDWARD SANDERS Jun
Surgeon died 29th of May
1838 Aged 36 Years
Also CATHERINE ANN Daughter of
EDWARD  and CATHERINE SANDERS
died the 7th of June 18[4]1
Aged 28 Years

24

In Memory of JOHN BESBECH
who died Oct 27th 1714
Aged 54 Years
Also LYDIA his Wife and their
three Children JOHN MARY and
JAMES
Likewise ROBT. BEAL Gent died
April 3rd 1755 Aged 101 Years
and 8 Months
Of RICHD. BORMAN Gent who
died Nov 22nd 1774 Aged 94 Years
And of BEAL BORMAN Gent who
died April 1st 1780 Aged 66 Years

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 27th May 1756

Beal Borman of Maidstone, Gentleman.

To his brother, Richard, for life, an annuity of £20, charge on his real estate.

To his brother, Robert, ½ of his house, stable, oasthouse garden and orchard and land of about 10 acres, arable and hops, at Rocky Hill, alias Rotten Hill or Westree, Maidstone, now or late occupied by Thomas Wattell; also land at  of about 76 acres at Brenzett alias Brensett and Brookland alias Brokeland, now or late occupied by John Luckhurst; also his house, stable and outhouse in Week Street, Maidstone in his own occupation,  also all other freehold estate, for ever. Subject to the payment of the £20 annuity to his brother, Richard.

To the Rev. John Sheldon and Sibella, his wife, testator's sister, the other ½ of the real estate and to Sibella's heirs, for ever, subject to the payment of the annuity to Richard Borman, (£10 from each half ?)

To the Rev. Herbert Jenkins, Minister of the Separate Congregation  of Protestant Dissenters at Maidstone, of which he is a member, £20. To the poor of the same church, £10, to be distributed by the Minister.

To the servant with him at his death, £5.
His plate, linen, household goods, implements and furniture to Robert Borman and Sibella Sheldon, equally shared.

The rest and residue of money, securities for money, goods, chattels and personal estate, after payment of his debts, legacies, probate and funeral charges, to Robert Borman, John Sheldon and Sibella Sheldon, equally shared. They are his executors.

Witnesses: (    ?    )  Richard Greenhill  Samuel Eastchurch

Proved 28th August 1780 Effects of deceased  valued at less than £300

BLAKE see MERCER

BLANCHARD see ELVI[  ]

25

Within this Vault  are Deposited the
Remains of Mrs ANNA BLOMER Wife of
ANTHONY BLOMER Esq one of his Majesty's
Justices of the Peace of this County
She died the 19th of April 1770
Aged 35 Years
Also of MARY BLOMER their Daughter
who died the 12th of September 1760
Aged 10 Weeks and 3 Days
Also of the above named
ANTHONY BLOMER who died the
5th of January 1784 Aged 54 Years
Also of ISAAC MASON THEALE
his Grandson who was born the
14th of April 1785 and died the 28th
of May following
[Also] of  GEORGE FARBRACE THEALE Esq
Major in the Army another Grandson
who died the 17th of January  1827
Aged 41 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 5th January 1784

Anthony Blomer of Maidstone, Esquire.

His body to be buried near his late wife  in the family vault in All Saints, Maidstone.

To his daughter, Mary Blomer all his real estate (no details) and his goods, chattels, effects and personal estate, for ever. He appoints her to be his executor.

Witnesses: Thomas Milner  James Teale  Thomas Durrant Punnett

Proved 20th March 1784

BLUNT see ROGERS