Monumental Inscriptions on the ledgerstones inside All Saints Church, Maidstone

Monumental Inscriptions on the ledgerstones inside the church with related, concise wills. Compiled and wills transcribed by D. E. Williams.

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

26

Beneath are Deposited

the Remains of

MARY Wife of

WM. BODMAN

died Jany 30th 1830

Aged 51 Years

Also the aforesaid

WM. BODMAN

who died August

14th 1833

Aged 54 years

27

[                           ]

MARIA

CLARING BOLD

Obiit XXVIII

Novembris

Anno Dom

1687

28

Here Lieth the Body of

SARAH the Wife of WILLM.

BOOTS Surgeon  who departed this life  the

[                                     ]

MARY ELIOT

Widow of

WILLIAM ELIOT

of the Royal Navy

died March 2nd 1834

Aged 75 Years

BORMAN see BESBECH

29

HIC jacet Corpus FRANCISCI

BOVRNE Gnuper ? de Maidstone

Gen qui obiit Decimo

die Octobris  Anno Domi 1678

Aetatis Svae 77

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 23rd September 1678

Francis Bourne of Maidstone, Gentleman.

To his sister, Sarah Clarke, £10

To his kinsman, William Clarke, £25

To kinsman, James Clarke, £20 to redeem his writings out of the hands of the Churchwardens and Overseers of Lenham.

To his kinsman, Leonard Clarke, £10.

To his cousins, Leonard Smith and his brother  James Smith, 40 shillings each to buy them a ring.

To kinsman, James Clarke, ½ of the tithes belonging to the Manor of Marby in Harrietsham and Frinsted.

To his wife, Anne and his brother, William Bourne of Linsted, Gentleman, all household goods and implements, equally shared. His wife has the sole use of the goods for her lifetime.

His brother, William is his executor. To his executor, after his debts, legacies and funeral costs are paid, all his other goods, chattels, real and personal estate, bills, bonds, ready money, debts and credits.

Witnesses: Robert French ?, the mark of Margaret Wheastone ?

Proved 1st May 1679

BRENCHLEY see FERRALL

30

[                              ]

[     ]  the Body of

[          ] BROOK  Svnne of

[            ] BROOK Iron Munger

[who] departed this Life y[e]

[   ] of Feberary 1675 Aged

11 Yeares

[                                  ]

31

Beneath

this Stone lie the Remains of

ELIZABETH Daughter of

WILLIAM & ANN BROWNE

who departed this Life

the 7th February 1820

Aged 16 Years

Also the above  named

WILLIAM BROWNE

who departed this Life

the 3rd May [    ]

Aged 70 Years

Also ANN Wife of the above named

WILLIAM BROWNE

who departed this Life

the 4th August 1833 Aged 70 Years

32

Here Lieth

the Remains of

WILLIAM BRYANT

Majr. Surgeon

of Chatham

died March the 3rd

[1816] Aged 64 Years

SARAH BRYANT

[Wife] of the above

WILLIAM BRYANT

died Sept. 7th [1827]

Aged 66 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 3rd December 1811

William Bryant the Elder, of Chatham, Gentleman, (Major Surgeon, probably of the Royal Marines)

He desires to be buried in the parish he dies in.

His copyhold estate at Salt Hill, Farnham, Berkshire, to his wife, Sarah, for life. After her death, then to his nephews, Jacob George Bryant and William Bryant, upon trust.

One half  of the rents and profits to the benefit of his niece, Margaret Hooper, wife of Thomas Hills Hooper of Chatham, Gentleman, for her lifetime, free from the control and debts of her husband or any future husband.

After her death, then to the benefit of her children in equal portions if more than one. In default of any children, then to the benefit of his niece, Anna Watherston, wife of Thomas Watherston, Surgeon, Royal Marines, for her lifetime. After her death, as before, to her children's benefit and in default of children, then remains with his trustees, Jacob George and William Bryant.

He gives the other half of the estate's benefits to niece, Anna  Watherston, for life, then as above but in default of children of Anna to the benefit of Margaret Hooper fir life and in default of children of Margaret, to Jacob George and William Bryant, for ever.

He gives a part share in the Manor of Down Basine ?, houses, farms and land in Northolt, Ryclift ? and Itteringham or  Ikenham, Middlesex, to his wife, Sarah, for life and after her death, to Jacob George Bryant, for ever.

His share of land and premises in the hamlet of Coundon in Allesley and Ryton, Warwickshire, to his wife, Sarah, for life. After her death, then to his nephews, Jacob George and William Bryant, for ever.

His share in houses in Chatham High Street, occupied by himself and William Marsh, to his wife, Sarah, for life and after her death, to Jacob George and William Bryant, for ever.

His share in several houses near the Bell on the Brook, Chatham, given to him by the will of Ann Buck, widow, to his wife, for life and after her death, then to James Buck of Queen Street, Chatham, Shipwright, for ever.

His freehold or copyhold estate in Dagenham, Essex, and his share of several houses in Mulberry Court, and White Cross Alley, in St. Leonard's, Shoreditch, to his nephew, William Bryant, upon trust, William to permit his mother, Margaret Bryant to have from the rents and profits an annuity of £40 for life.

By virtue of a mortgage indenture dated 24th June 1807 made between Thomas Bentley and Jacob Ashley of Chatham, Brewer and   ?    , of the first part, Thomas Percy of Brompton, Gillingham, Gentleman, (nominated in trust for Bentley and Ashley), of the 2nd part and the testator of the 3rd part, the sum of £3,450 was devised ?, with interest, also by a bond or obligation of the same date, under the hands and seals of Bentley and Ashley, the £3,450 is still due.    ?      and with interest (obscure passage).

In case the mortgage debt is not repaid in his lifetime, he gives the sum owing, with the securities to his nephews, Jacob George and William Bryant, upon trust, to recover the same and invest it in good securities and pay half of the dividends to his wife for her lifetime. The other half he gives to Jacob George and William Bryant.

He has in the Bank of England, £1,000 Bank Stock and £600 in the Navy 5% Bank Stock, he gives his wife the dividends for life and after her death, to Jacob George and William Bryant, upon trust.

From £500 of the £1,000 stock and £300 of the £600 stock, they to pay the dividends to his niece, Margaret Hooper, for life for her own absolute and sole benefit. After her death, then the £500 and £300 stock to Jacob George and William Bryant, upon trust, for the children of Margaret Hooper at 21 years of age. In default of any children, then according to the laws of intestacy.

The dividends on the £500 and £300 residue of the stock, to be paid to his niece, Anna Watherston, for life for her sole use. After her death, then upon trust, for her children, in default of children then according the laws of intestacy.

While the children of Margaret Hooper and Anna Watherston are minors, the trustees are to use income toward their maintenance and education until they are 21.

All his household furniture, plate, linen, to his wife.

His gold watch and seal to nephew, William Bryant.

He gives to Sarah Mason, widow of his late good friend, John Mason, of Cyb???ham, in Farnham, Berkshire, Yeoman, £30.

To Thomas Hills Hooper, £50; to his good friend, John Townson of Chatham, Gentleman and William Snow of Salt Hill, Farnham, Berkshire, Shopkeeper, , William Frost of Cockspur Street, Charing Cross, Grocer, Frusanna Skinner of St. Margaret's, Rochester, John Venning of Chatham, Gentleman and Charles Townson of Chatham, Stationer, £20 each.

To Charles Newcombe of Stoke near Coventry, Esquire, £10

To the Free School supported by voluntary contributions in New Road, Chatham, £20, to be used at the discretion of the Reverend Doctor Law, Archdeacon of Rochester, if he is living then, if not, by the then Archdeacon.

Rest and residue of his estate, after his debts, legacies, funeral and probate costs are paid, to his wife, Sarah, absolutely.

Witnesses: Bury Hutchinson, Anthony Crosby, William Vines, Brown's Hall, London.

Codicil 28th February 1816

He had bequeathed to Sarah Mason of Farnham, £30, to William Snow of London, John Townson of Chatham and William Frost of London, £20 each, he now revokes these bequests.

He gives his nephew, Jacob George Bryant, £50.

Rest of will ratified.

Witnesses: Stephen Lamprey, Solicitor, Maidstone, Mary Ann L'Bap ? Pauley

Proved 26th September 1816

BURGH see MAY

33

In this Vault

[Lie] Interr'd the Remains of

JAMES CALDER Esq

who died January the 14th 1777

Aged 34 Years

Also of ELIZABETH the Wife of

Major Genl. Sir HENRY CALDER

Bart of Park House who died May

the 13th 1786 in the 4[9th] Year of her Age

Also the above named Majr Genl.

Sir  HENRY CALDER Bart C[olonel ?] of

the 30th Regt and Lieutenant Governor

of Gibraltar  who died Febr  3rd 1792

Aged 5[0] Years

Also LOUISA Lady CALDER Widow

of the above named Major Genl

Sir HENRY CALDER Bart who died

7th of Novr 1820 Aged 69 Years

34

Here Lyeth the Body of Mr

JOHN CALLANT  Aged Sixty Six

Yeares  and departed this Life

the 27th of February 1698*

Here lyeth the Body of

ANNE CALLANT

Widow of JOHN CALLANT

who departed this Life

[  ] July 1712 Aged [  ]

Years

Here also lyeth the Body of

JOHN CALLANT

Gentleman  the Son of the said

JOHN CALLANT

and ANNE his Wife who

departed this Life   the Ninth

April 1733 Aged [  ] Years

Here also lyeth  the Body  of

[MAR]Y CALLANT  Widow of the last

[nam[ed JOHN CALLANT Gentleman

who departed this Life the 18th of N[ov]

1763 Aged 81 Years

* 1699 in the Modern Calendar

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 20th February 1698 (1699)

John Callant the Elder of Maidstone, Threadtwister.

He is weak in body.

To his daughter, Anne Fanting, widow, £10. If she marries again and has a child, he leaves £100 for that child  at 21 years of age but not otherwise.

To his daughter, Sarah Keble, £200, this is her marriage portion and £100 more at the birth of her first child.

To son in law, John Keble and his wife, £5 each for mourning.

To his sister Deborah Savage, £5

To his daughter, Frances Callant , £300, £200 within I year of his death and £100 within 6 months of the first payment.

To daughter Elizabeth Callant, an annuity of £15, for life, charged upon his rents and profits of his real estate  in Luton (Chatham), Stockbury, Halstow, Upchurch and Sutton Valence.

To his sister, Sarah Whitehead,  widow.

To his wife, Anne, the house he now lives in, for life, she keeping it in good repair, after her death, then to his son, John for ever.

To his wife and son John, his land and hop grounds near Stone Style  in Boxley, profits shared equally and after his wife's death, to son John, for ever.

All other real estate, including  newly built houses adjoining his own house, to son John for ever.

His wife and son, John, to keep up his trade and share the profits. Also to them his goods, chattels, household stuff, money, plate and personal estate, equally shared, (except the joint stock  or trade, which is not to be divided until his wife's death, unless she desires that to be done).

His wife and son John are his executors.

To his brother, James Callant, £5

Witnesses: John Blunt  Thomas Trigg  John Weekly ? Senior

Proved 23rd May 1699

35

[                                     ]

GARRETUS CALLANT

Armiger

[died] vth August [Anno]

Domini MDCCXXI

Anno Aetatis LXXVI

Also here lyeth  the Body of

HEATH CALLANT Gent

the Son of JOHN CALLANT Gent

deceased  and Nephew  to the [said]

GARRET CALLANT

who died the Twenty Fifth of

September 1735 Aged 34 Years

Here lyeth the Body of  JOHN CALLANT

[Son of] JOHN & MARY CALLANT

[Brot]her of the above

[HE]ATH CALLANT

who died the 26th day of April 174[2]

[Aged] [ ]5 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 27th July 1721

Garrett Callant of Maidstone, Gentleman.

He is weak in body.

To his friend, Robert Salmon of Maidstone, Gentleman, Neoaks Wood, which he bought from one Leixford in Wouldham or adjacent parish, also his ½ share  of 6 acres of hops in Boxley, lately belonging to Mrs Whitehead, for ever.

To his nephew, John Callant  all other his Manors, houses, lands in Kent or elsewhere, for his lifetime and after his death, ½ of the estate to Heath Callant, eldest son of John Callant, for ever.

The other ½ to John Callant, youngest son of  John Callant , for ever.

To his cousin, (           ?              ) and his wife, £50 each, to their 3 children or such as live to 21 years of age, £50 each.

To his man servant and maid, with him at time of his death, £20 each.

His coach and horses and residue of personal estate, after his debts, legacies and funeral costs are paid, to Robert Salmon, absolutely, Salmon is his executor.

He signs the will with his mark

Witnesses:J. Weekes  D. Fuller  John Blunt

Proved 15th December 1721

36

Here Lies [           ]

ELIZA[BETH] [Daughter of ?]

JOHN  and [MARY ?] CALLANT

who [departed this ]Life

the [              ] 1736

[                               ]

[           ] [CA]LLANT

Sister [                  ]

[                            ]

37

[                                  ]

ARNOLD CARTER M.D.

Died 19th October

1801

Aged 39 Years

Also the Remains of

FRANCES CORRALL Daughter

of  Mr ROBERT and HANNAH

[CORR]ALL who died the 14th of

November 1785 Aged 16 Years

Likewise the Remains of

CHARLES CORRALL Gent

Son of the above

who died the 5th of May 1807

Aged 42 Years

Also the Body of

ELIZABETH MINGAY

Relict of JAMES MINGAY

Esq of Thetford in the

County of Norfolk & Daughter

of the above who died  the 1st of

February 1817

Aged 52 Years

Also PHILIP CORRALL

died May 21st 1840

Aged 72 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will dated 22nd November 1839

Philip Corrall of Maidstone, Banker

He appoints John Mercer, Esquire and Alexander Randall, Esquire, both of Maidstone, executors.

All his property to them, in trust, to pay his debts and terminate his engagements at the bank.

His real estate to his sister, Ann Carter, for her lifetime. After her death, his Little Calund Farm, with Impton and Tottington Woods in Aylesford and Burham and 1 acre of land purchased from Mr Burke, to John Mercer, Junior, a Clerk at his bank.

At the death of his sister, Ann Carter, then to Frederick Thomas Mercer, his godson, China ? Court Farm at Chart and 4 cottages in Upper Stone Street, Maidstone.

The residue and money in the Public Funds, shares, money lent on mortgage, goods, chattels and effects, to his sister Ann Carter.

Witnesses: James Tadman, Gentleman of Maidstone, George Richard Streatfield, Gentleman of Maidstone.

Codicil 1st April 1840

He is possessed of £16,000, his proportion of the capital in the Kentish Bank. He gives this to friends and partners, John Mercer and Alexander Randall. They to pay £1,000 per annum to his sister, Ann Carter, for life and £40 per annum to his bailiff, James Cole, for life.

Rest of will confirmed.

Witnesses:As for will.

Codicil 9th April 1840

To John Mercer, Junior, £2,000, charged with the payment of £80 per annum to his sister, Ann Carter.

To his friend Thomas Day, Esquire and John Hall, Salesman, £100 each.

To Stephen Link Hazell, £50 and to each of his 4 other clerks, at the bank, £20; he also gives £200 to the west Kent Infirmary and £100 each to the National and Blue Coat schools at Maidstone.

Rest of will and codicil conformed.

Witnesses: Charles Stone, Servant to Mr Corrall, Mary Pope of the College ?, Maidstone.

Affidavit 5th June 1840

James Tadman, under oath, states he was a witness to the will of the deceased and was present with George Streatfield when they both witnessed the will in presence of the deceased.

Proved 11th June 1840

CHADWICKE see FULLAGAR

38

In Memory of

MARY CLEMMENT

who died Oct 30th 1821

Aged 37 Years

Also THOMAS CLEMMENT

died Nov 19th 1829

Aged 32 Years

39

Beneath

this Stone are Deposited

the Remains of

ELIZABETH Wife of

JAMES COLE of this Parish

who departed this Life

[                                 ]

[                    ]

40

[                             ]

Interred the Body of

CATHERINE COLLISON the Eldest

Daughter of ZACHARIAS COLLISON

and DOROTHEA his Wife who

departed this Life the 24th day of

October Anno Domini 1699 and

in the 20th Year of her Age

41

Here Lyeth Interred ye Body of EDMOND

COLVILL Sonn of EDMOND COLVILL

late of this Parish  deceased

who departed this Life ye 16th day of June

Anno Domini 1632 in ye

37th Year of his Age

42

Beneath

[lie the] Remains  of

WILLM. COOKE Surgeon who died

29th Sept 1810 Aged 29 Years

Also of

JOHN JAMES COOKE

One of the Jurats of this Corporation

who died October 4th  1822

Aged [4]9 Years

Also Capt JAMES COOKE

who died August 31st 1826

Aged 42 Years

Also MARY Daughter of

Capt JAMES  & MARY HANNAH

COOKE died Dec 30th 1829

Aged 13 Years

Also DOROTHY KIRKHAM COOKE

Wife of the above J.J. COOKE

who died August 1st 1848

in the 72nd Year of her Age

Also her Grand Daughter

ANNE MARY SANDERS

died Dec 11th 1831

Aged 17 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 1st August 1810

William Cooke of West Malling, Surgeon.

To his brother, John James Cooke  of Maidstone, Gentleman, his revisionary interest in and to the sum of £150 given by his late brother, Thomas Cooke and all his personal estate and effects.

He requests his brother, John James, to accept the £150 in part payment of  the debt he owes to brother John James and father, John. He appoints his brother John James, executor.

Witnesses: Thomas Weeks, Senior and Thomas Weeks, Junior

Proved 11th March 1811

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 2nd October 1822

John James Cooke of Maidstone, Attorney at Law.

All his goods, chattels, lands, money, bonds, debt and effects to Thomas Hills of Maidstone, Baker and Alexander Randall of Maidstone, Gentleman, upon trust, they to pay his debts and funeral charges.

The rest and residue of his effects to be sold and the money to be invested, his wife to receive the interest for life. After her death, the principal sum to be equally shared between his 4 daughters at their respective ages of 21. The share of any of them who die before then, to the survivors, equally shared.

Witnesses: Walter Hills, Martha James, Ann Lavender

Proved 9th December 1822

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 19th August 1826

James Cooke, Esquire of Maidstone, late Captain of H.M. 94th Regiment of Foot

He appoints his wife, Mary Hannah and his friend John Cribb Stephens of Maidstone, Gentleman, executors.

To them his goods, chattels, effects and personal estate and all his part share he is entitled to under the will of his late father, John Cooke, personal or real and all other real estate, except trust estate, upon trust. This is subject to payment of his debts, funeral and probate costs

His wife to have as much household furniture, plate, linen and china as she will used in her lifetime, she also to have £50.

The remainder of his household goods to be sold and proceeds invested in Government or real securities and the interest earned to be used towards the maintenance and education of his children until they are respectively 21, when the trust fund to be equally shared among them.....................

Witnesses: Frances Cooke, Spinster , Walter Hills, Solicitor of Maidstone, John B. Holman, Clerk to Messrs Stephens and Hills.

Proved 18th November 1826

COOPER see PAULEY

43

Here Lieth the Body of

Mr JOHN CORRALL who died

June 10th  1759 Aged 66 Years

Also ANN his Wife who died

April 26th 1748 Aged 46 Years

Also ROBERT Son of

Mr ROBERT and HANNAH

CORRALL who died

May 12th 1766 Aged 9 Years

Also ROBERT CORRALL Gent

only Son of the above JOHN &

ANN CORRALL who died

June 12th 1783 Aged 49 Years

Also Mrs HANNAH CORRALL

Wife of the above  ROBERT

CORRALL Gent who died

March 21st 1820 Aged 86 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury  Will Dated 12th June 1783

Robert Corrall of Maidstone, Gentleman.

He confirms his marriage settlement, made when he married his wife, Hannah.

All his real estate to his children, John, Charles, Philip, Ann, Elizabeth and Frances, for ever, equally shared.

All the businesses he is concerned with to be managed and carried on with by his executors for the benefit of his wife and children, until son, Charles is 25, when, if the executors think he is fit, to assign the above to him. If they do not think is is not the right time, they are to carry on the management  for as long as they think it appropriate.

After payment of his debts and funeral charges, all the residue of his personal estate to his children, equally shared at their respective aged of 21.

For those who are minors at his death, their share of his of his estate to be used towards their maintenance and education.

Son, John, Thomas Turner of Hunton and Thomas Durrant Punnett are his executors and guardians  of the persons and estate of his infant children during their minorities.

Witnesses: Tomas Milner,  Thomas Day, George Burr

Codicil 12th June 1783

To his wife, Hannah, all household good, furniture, plate, linen, china and effects, absolutely.

Witnesses: Thomas Milner, Thomas Day.

Proved 15th August 1783

CORRALL see CARTER

44

[                        ]

WILLIAM COSFORD

[who died]

[April] 12th 1708

[                  ]

FRANCES his Wife

[who died]

 [June] 18th 1722 Aged

80 Years

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 11th March 1691 (1692)

William Cosford of Maidstone, Victualler.

To his uncle, Elias Cosford and James Fletcher, Gentleman, a gold ring each of 10 shillings value.

His personal estate to his wife, Frances, for ever, she is his executor.

Witnesses: Elizabeth King, Edward Rose

Proved 23rd April 1708

45

Here Lieth the Body of [JOHN ]

CRIPPS Gentleman one o[f the]

Jurats of this Corporat[ion]

who departed this Life  o[n the]

17th day of July in the 72nd Year [of]

his Age Anno Domini 1677

Here also Lies the Body of

NICHOLAS CRIPPS

[C]itizen and Draper of London

who died September the 8th

1735 Aged 68 Years

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 11th July 1677

John Cripps the Elder of Maidstone, Gentleman.

He is weak in body.

To his son, John, for ever, his house or inn, called the Sun , with yards, garden, stable and outhouses, occupied by William Turner, also a parcel of land, hop garden called Perry Field of about 23 acres, also a house or inn called the Woolpack occupied by [             ] Cyles, widow and it's grounds, also his house or inn called the White Harte and grounds, stable and barn, occupied by Thomas Goffe; also his ¾  part of land, now a cherry orchard, occupied by Richard French and himself; also his ¾ of 3 houses occupied by Katherine Thomas, widow, Humphrey Posten and John Woollet; also his ¾ of 3 houses occupied by Shevan, Doctor in Physick, John Bennett and John Terndon; also his ¾ of 3 houses and malthouse, lately built by himself, occupied by Thomas Pett, Gentleman, himself and [          ] Rann ? in Maidstone and Boxley.

To his daughter, Elizabeth Gillett, wife of George Gillett of Westminster, Gentleman, an annuity of £20 for life, charged on real estate given to his son, John.

To son John, £477in an indenture of mortgage dated 19th September 1677 ? made from Thomas Pett of Maidstone to himself, with all his interest and the Indenture, upon trust, for the benefit of his daughter, Frances Pett, wife of Thomas Pett, she to have the interest for life. After her death the £477 and the indenture to his grandchildren, John Pett, Mary Pett, Sarah Pett, Elizabeth Pett and Thomas Pett, equally shared.

The rest and residue of his estate to his son John, for ever, son John is his executor.

Witnesses: Richard Colly ?, James French ?, Richard Heely

Proved 28th September 1677

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 22nd August 1735

Nicholas Cripps of Rumwood Green, Langley, Kent Gentleman.

He desires to be buried in All Saints, Maidstone.

To his wife, Barbara, his 4 houses in Baker's Street, Enfield, Middlesex, occupied by William Underwood, Esquire and Edward Tarry, William Howard and Thomas Whiting. He holds these properties on lease from the Company of Drapers, London; also his leasehold house in Skinner Street, without Bishop's Gate, London, now or late occupied by [          ] Rayner, he has this on lease from Ann Stevens; also his house called the Barley Mow, near Mile End in Stepney, Middlesex, on a lease from Mary Yoakley, now or late occupied by Richard Roberts, all these to his wife, for the remainder of the leases. If she dies before the leases al expire, the to his children, Nicholas, John, William and Katherine, equally shared.

Also to his wife, for life, his farm, which he bought from his mother in law, (step mother ?) Dorothy Cripps of Detling, now or late occupied by Richard Bills and after his wife's death to his eldest son, Nicholas, for ever.

Also to son, Nicholas, his part share  in several houses, brewhouse and outhouses in Week Street, Maidstone, occupied by Thomas Stringer and his share of 3 houses known by the sign of the White Hart, Three Mariners and Wool Pack, with gardens, yards and outhouses in Maidstone, now leased by Thomas Stringer, to son Nicholas for ever.

To his daughter, Katherine, £1,000.

To his son John, £400 above money already advanced to him.

To his wife, £350, in trust, for son William, over and above money already advanced to him, this paid, from time to time towards his support and maintenance and not to be used for any debts.

To the Minister and Churchwardens of Langley, £12 to buy a piece of plate for Holy Communion'

To son Nicholas, £50 for mourning, to sons, John and William and daughter, Katherine, £10 each for mourning.

Rest and residue of goods, chattels, ready money, stock in Public Funds, debts, bills, bonds, securities for money and personal estate, after his debts, legacies and funeral costs are paid, to his wife, Barbara, who is his executor.

He ratifies all settlements made to her previously and these are in lieu of her Dower Rights, which she might claim.

To the poor of Maidstone, 40 shillings to be distributed among those his wife “think fit objects of charity”

Witnesses: David Waterhouse, Anne Waterhouse, Samuel Fullagar

Proved 5th December 1735

46

Here Lye the Bodies of THOMAS CRIPPS of

this Parish Gent  Eldest Son of JOHN

CRIPPS Gent and MARGARETT is Wife

who left issue  only MARY  sometime

the Wife of EDWARD FOGGE Esqr Eld

est Son  of RICHARD FOGGE of Dane

Court in the Parish of Tilmanstone  in

this County Esqr who exchanged this

Life for an Immortall in the 45th Yeare

of his Age and was also here interr'd

the 6th day of March in the Yeare  of our

Lord 1683*

* 1684 in the modern calendar

47

Here is Deposited the

Remains of

MARY CROCKFORD

Widow

Obiit Fe b 17[6]9

Aged [  ] Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 30th December 1768

Mary Crockford, Widow, late of Caversham, now of Maidstone.

She desires to be buried in Maidstone Parish church.

She bequeaths £300 bank stock to her niece, Elizabeth, now wife of Stephen Lepine of Maidstone and all of her clothes.

To her cousin Paine, 40 shillings.

To Mrs Hawley, 1 guinea for a ring.

Te rest and residue of her real and personal estate to niece, Elizabeth Lepine, for ever. She is also her executor and is to pay her debts and funeral costs.

Witnesses: Thomas Bayton  Abraham Cherry  John Sidney

Proved 21st February 1769

CROWDER see JOHNSON

CURTEIS see SAUNDERS

48

In Memory of

[THO]MAS CUTBUSH

[          [ of this Town

[         ] the above

[died] March the [  ]18[  ]

[Aged] [  ] years

CUTBUSH see HILLS

49

Here Lyeth the Body

WILLIAM DARBY Gent

late Jurate of this Corporation

He dep[arted this] Life

the Twent[    ] [of] January 17[  ]

being the [          ]

Here [               ]

of M[                          ]

his two Daughters

GEORGE POST died  [      ]

1727 Aged [  ] Years

DARBY see MURIELL

DAVIES see BARRETT

50

ABRAHAM DAWSON who died

[          ] 19th 1747 Aged 67

Also MARY DAWSON who died

August 2nd  1750 Aged 67

likewise SUSAN Wife of

THOMAS POPE died Oct 28th

and 4 Children died in their

Infancy

Also MARY his second Wife

died May 24th  1762 Aged 22

[     ] [  ] Daughter died an Infant

Also MARGARET  his third Wife

died Jan 1[ ] 1788 Aged 46

Also the above named

THOMAS POPE died Dec 17th

1792 Aged 64 Years

Concise Consistory Court of Canterbury Will Dated 16th June 1747

Abraham Dawson of Maidstone, Bricklayer.

To his sister, Mary Dawson, his house in Pudding Lane, occupied by the Widow Osmer, commonly known as the Bakehouse, for her lifetime and, after her death, to his niece, Mary Athawes, wife of Samuel Athawes if Newnham Court, Boxley, Yeoman, for her lifetime and, after her death, to Susanna Athawes, daughter of Mary Athawes, for ever; also to Susanna, 1 shilling “and no more”.

To Mary Athawes, £100, within a month of the death of Samuel Athawes, her husband but if she dies before him, then the £100 to Susanna Athawes at 21 years of age.

To Mary Athawes, £50 for mourning for herself and her children

To Susanna Athawes, £200 at 21 years of age.

To his servant, John Borden, £5, if he continues a servant with his widow, he gives him £5 more.

To his sister, Mary Dawson,  after his debts and  legacies are paid, all his stock of hop poles and hops growing on land at Maidstone he holds from the Earl of Aylesford, 20 bags of hops of last year's growth, charcoal, oast hairs, sea coal, horses, wagons, carts, tuggs, corn, hay, ready money, securities for money, plate, linen, rings, household goods and implements, debts owing, goods, chattels and personal estate and effects, absolutely.

He appoints Mary Dawson his executor.

Witnesses: Edward Waldo Dorrington  James Tull  Samuel Eastchurch

Proved  7th March 1747*

* 1748 in the modern calendar

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 8th November 1792

Thomas Pope of Maidstone, Gentleman.

He appoints his uncle, Robert Pope of Maidstone, Gentleman, Flint Stacey of Maidstone, Brewer, Thomas Poole of Maidstone, Hatter and George Burr of Maidstone, Gentleman, executors and guardians of his minor children. His debts, funeral and probate costs to first paid from his personal estate and effects.

To his son, Thomas Blissett Pope his gold watch with gold chain, seal and trinkets belonging, at 21 years of age.

To his executors, 10 guineas each, for a ring.

His real and personal estate to his executors, upon trust, for his 6 children, Frances, Thomas Blissett, Margaret, Robert, Horatio and Mary Anne Pope, equally divided at 21 years of age. In case all his children die under 21, then his real and personal estate to his own right heirs (under intestacy laws).

Income from his estate towards his children's maintenance and education until they are 21.

until his eldest son, Thomas Blissett, is 21, his trustees to carry on his farming business and convey it to son Thomas when he is 21, with all farming tackle and implements valued by 2 competent appraisers, one named by his son and one by his executors, his share of the personal estate to have the above value deducted. If his son does not want the farming business, the executors to manage it until son Horatio is 21, when his executors and trustees will deliver it to him, Horatio to pay for the stock on the farm, utensils, tackle and implements, these to be valued as before. If Horatio declines  to take over or died under 21, the executors and trustees shall not continue the farm after Thomas Blissett's death but to sell it and equally divide the proceeds between his children........................

Witnesses: John Sanders  Stephen Lamprey  Charles Topping

Proved 15th February 1793

DAY see MAY

DERING see ENGLISH

DIXON see WELDON

51

[                                ]

Mr EDWARD WALDO DORRINGTON

of Maidstone Apothecary departed

this Life  Dec 22nd  ? 1764 Aged 68 ?

Years

Mrs  SARAH WALDO DORRINGTON  Sister of

the said Mr DORRINGTON [             ]

[            ] M[          ] WALDO [DORRINGTON] ?

[                              ] 1751 ?

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 19th December 1764

Edward Waldo Dorrington of Maidstone, Apothecary.

He desires to be buried in the churchyard of Maidstone Parish church, near to where his mother is buried. (Obviously his executor had other plans).

To his wife, Elizabeth, £500 of Capital Bank Stock, part of £1,200.

To his brother, Theophilus and his wife, £20 each and to each of their children, £10.

To his brother in law, the Reverend Benjamin Waterhouse and his wife, and testator's sister in law, Mrs Mary Sawkins, £10 each.

To the Reverend Benjamin Waterhouse, £20 , to be paid to the Treasurer the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge, for propagating the Gospel in foreign parts.

He gives £20 to the Incorporated Society in Dublin for promoting  English Protestant Schools in Ireland, pursuant to his late Majesty's Royal Charter.

To nephew, Theophilus, eldest son of his brother and to niece, Ann, his sister's daughter, £100 each.

To Thomas Day his apprentice, £20 upon his cancelling his indentures of apprenticeship.

All his books on medicines or surgery to his brother for his son or sons who wish to pursue the practise of physic.

To his nephew and godson, Edward Waldo Dorrington his silver   ?      [engraved] E W D and £40.

To Benjamin Waterhouse £20, upon trust, for the Foundling Hospital.

To his cousin, Alice Sear and her daughter, Alice Sear, £10 each.

He gives £10 to the debtors in the Sheriff's gaol in Maidstone.

To 50 poor people in Maidstone, Hollingbourne  and Langley, a guinea each.

To Benjamin Waterhouse, £50, upon trust, for the Treasurer of the Charity Schools in Maidstone.

To the Reverend Jacob Chapman of Staplehurst, £10 and a gold ring for him and his wife.

To Mary  Brevitor, wife of [                 ] Brevitor of Athborne, in [faded] and sister of Benjamin Waterhouse, £10.

To Mrs Eleanor Collison,  1 guinea; and a gold ring for “such and so many of my friends  and acquaintances as my executors shall think proper”.

By a marriage agreement made on his marriage, dated 25th September 1749, he can bequeath  £500 Capital Stock in Old South Sea Annuities, after the death of his wife, so he bequeaths this to his brother, Theophilius and Benjamin Waterhouse, in trust, to sell and from the proceeds to pay £50 to the Treasurer of the Society for the Promotion of Christian Knowledge, as before and £50 to the Incorporated Society of Dublin for promoting English Protestant Schools, £59 to the Maidstone Charity Schools, £40 to the Foundling Hospital and a guinea each to 50 poor people, as follows, 30 in Maidstone, 10 in Hollingbourne and 10 in Langley, as approved by the respective parish priest.

Rest and residue of the £500  the children of his brother living at the time of his wife's death, equally shared, if only one then all to that child.

By the said settlement he is entitled to   ?     the dividends of several stocks and interest of several mortgages and money during his life, he gives his wife all arrears of the dividends and interest due to him, at her death and his plate, linen, pewter, pictures, household goods and furniture in his own house according to the marriage settlement.

To Mrs [          ] Russell, widow of the Rev John Russell late of Maidstone, 5 guineas; to his brother Theophilius and Benjamin Waterhouse, £600 Bank Stock, part of the £1,200stock, upon trust, to pay income from the stock to Benjamin Waterhouse and his wife, Sarah, for their lives and life of the survivor. After their deaths, then upon further trust, to sell and from the money raised pay the Society for Promoting the Gospel in Foreign Parts, £100, to the Dublin Society for Promoting English Protestant Schools, £50, to the Maidstone Charity Schools, £50 and to the Foundling Hospital, £50. Also ½ a guinea each to 30 poor people in Maidstone, 10 in Hollingbourne and 10 in Langley.

The rest and residue, to the children of his brother Theophilius after the death of the survivor of Benjamin and Sarah Waterhouse, equally shared. 

He forgives his debtors who are really poor such small debts owed.

His religious books to be divided between his wife and sister, Sarah Waterhouse, after his debts, funeral charges and legacies are paid., the residue of his personal estate, not before given, to Benjamin Waterhouse, whom he appoints his executor.

Witnesses: Edward Jones  Thomas Willard

Proved 4th February 1765

52

Here Lyeth the Body of

the Revd. Mr JOHN DURRANT

who departed this Life

the 25th day of January

1731* Aged 65 Years

JOSEPH DURRANT

died July 8th 1767 Aged 65 Years

JOSEPH DURRANT died Jan 19th

1819 Aged 69 Years

*1732 in the modern calendar

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 23th May 1767

Joseph Durrant of Maidstone, Grocer.

He gives his house and farm, called Hansden ?, near Mayfield, Sussex, occupied by Mrs Read, to his wife, Judith, for ever, in trust, she to sell and discharge the principal sum of £800 and interest on the mortgage and the sum of £200 and interest due to his friend, Richard Wicking of Maidstone, Gentleman. She is to apply the residue into his residuary personal estate.

He gives his ½ share of a farm in East Hoadly and Waldron, Sussex, occupied by Mr Reeves, to his son, Joseph Durrant when he is 21, for ever. If he dies before then, he then gives it to his wife, Judith, for life. After her death, to his sister, Mary Durrant, Spinster, for ever.

His 2 small houses at Cranbrook, to his son, Joseph at 21 years of age, for ever. If he dies before then it will go to his wife, Judith, for ever.

After his debts and funeral costs are paid, the residue of ready money, securities for money, goods, chattels, effects, real and personal not before given, to his wife, Judith for ever.

It is his “dying request and earnest desire” that his wife, who is his executor, does to the best of her ability and circumstances, supply their son with the necessary conditions for his  comfortable and useful subsistence  and support.

Witnesses: Thomas Hall  Joseph Scultup  Thomas Hillard

Proved 27th November 1767

53

[                           ]

CASTLE EBBETT  of

London Woollen Draper

only Brother of MARY the

Wife of WM. WEAVER

of Maidstone died Sep ye 5th

1723 Aged 41 Years

[ Also] the Body of

[FLOR]ENCE HULL who

died the 2[ ] day of April

[     ] Aged [  ] Years

54

In Memory of

CLEMENT EDMEADS Son of

ROBT. and ELIZH. EDMEADS

who died May 9th 1779 Aged [  ] Months

Also the Body of ROBERT

Son of the above said ROBERT

and ELIZABETH EDMEADS

died March [  ] 1781 Aged [  ]

Also to the Beloved Memory of

ROBERT EDMEADS (Father of the

above Children) who was born in

the Parish of [         ] in this County

November  the [  ] 17[  ] departed

this Life April the 8th  1826 Aged 82

55

In a Vault beneath  are

deposited the Remains

of ANN Wife of

THOMAS EDMETT

who died May 27th 1837

Aged 52 Years

Also the above named

THOMAS EDMETT

who died

September 23rd 1852

Aged 67 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 9th January 1851

Thomas Edmett of Maidstone, Upholsterer.

All of his real and personal estate to his son Thomas, absolutely and the estates vested in him by mortgage or upon trust, subject to the equities affecting them. He appoints son, Thomas his executor.

Witnesses: Thomas Robert Cutbush of Yalding, Robert Cutbush of Maidstone.

Proved 20th December 1852

EDWARDS see THOMSON

EGREMONT see ROMNEY

ELLIOT see BOOTS

56

In Memory of

EDWD. ELLIS died Sept. 18th

1777 Aged 63 Years

JANE his Wife died Oct. 28th

1783 Aged 59 Years

Also 3 Sons & 2 Daughters

who died in their Infancy

(viz) MARY, WILLIAM, SAMUEL

JOHN and ELIZABETH

EDWARD ELLIS Son of

the above named

died April 3rd  1820 Aged 71 Years

ELIZABETH his Wife died December 5th

1786 Aged 33 Years

Also ANN his Second Wife died

April 9th 1820 Aged 61 Years

leaving issue 2 Sons

GEORGE and EDWARD

Also EDWARD  Son of the above

EDWARD and ANN ELLIS

who died February the 10th 1823

Aged 29 Years

57

Here Lyeth the Body of

[    ]R[    ] Wife of JN[O.] [ELVY ?]

[Tra]desman ? of this Town

who died the [  ] of July 1729

Aged 70 Years

Also the Body of the

[afore]said JOHN [ELVY ?]

who died the 16th of October 1769

Aged 72 Years

[Also] of ELIZABETH Wife of

JOHN ELVY of this Town

 who departed this Life  January the 23rd

1765 Aged 72 Years

JOHN ELVY

[                                        ]

JOHN ELVY died April the 20th

1802 Aged [  ] Years

SUSANNA ELVY  who died

Sept. 2nd 1839 Aged 86 Years

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 8th January 1802

John Elvy of Maidstone, Gentleman.

To his daughter, Elizabeth, wife of John Miller of Yalding, Gentleman, all his real estate in Linton, occupied by John Miller, for ever. But on condition that son in law, John Miller delivers to his executors a promissory note  for payment of [ Blank] which was given to him upon his marriage with his daughter Elizabeth , to be cancelled or destroyed.   

To his daughter, Eleanor Hosmer Ansell wife of George Ansell of London, Sugar Refiner, his real estate in Charing, occupied by William Jull, for ever.

His son in law, George Ansell, is indebted by a promissory note  to the sum of £365, he gives this sum to his daughter, Susan Elvy, absolutely. He charges his real estate and farm in Charing with this payment.

His real estate Maidstone, Loose, Chart Sutton, not before given, to John Miller and George Ansell, upon trust, to sell and invest the proceeds in the Public Funds  or Real Securities, upon trust, to pay  his daughter, Susan Elvy, an annuity of £70 for life and also pay his son, John an annuity of £40, for life.

From the remainder of the dividends they to pay towards the maintenance of Jane, his daughter in law, for life, as long as she remains his wife or widow but not otherwise. His son, John is to have none of this income, nor is it to be liable for his debts.

After the deaths of Susan Elvy, John and Jane Elvy or remarriage of Jane, upon trust, to transfer the trust monies and interest due to his grandsons, John Russell Elvy, Francis Barham Elvy and George Elvy, equally shared. If any of his grandsons die before his own children and Jane Elvy, leaving lawful issue, then their legacy to that child or children, equally shared if more than one....................

Also to his trustees, upon trust, for Jane, wife of his son, John, all of his effects of every sort at his house and farm at Loose, now in his own occupation, his trustees to pay from these effects his debts. Also to daughter in law, Jane and his daughters, Elizabeth  Miller, Eleanor Hosmer Ansell  and Susan Elvy, all his plate, equally shared.

To John Miller and George Ansell, £10 each for mourning, subject to their paying his legacies, funeral and probate costs, he appoints them his executors and guardians of his grandsons.

Rest and residue of goods, chattels, furniture and effects, ready money, bank notes, securities for money and personal estate, to his daughter, Susan Elvy, absolutely.

Witnesses: William Archer  Martha Bigg  John James Cooke , Attorney of Maidstone.

Codicil 19th February 1802

He revokes the annuity of £40 to his son, John and now gives him an annuity of £5 for life.

Rest of the will ratified.

Witnesses: John James Cooke  Martha Bigg  William Valentine

Proved 30th August 1802

58

Translated from the Latin by the Rev. John Cave Brown

Here sleeps entombed, once the Gift of God,

now given back to God, DOROTHEA, Daughter of

Sir EDWARD DERING Knight  and Baronet, the Wife

of THOMAS ENGLISH  of Buckland, Esquire,

Deservedly most dear to her husband for the

faithfulness of her married life and the

sweetness of her manners. She had 3 Sons and 7

Daughters and at length died in agony, giving

birth to twins. “Calmly rest, dear Shade ! Well hast

thou fought, now enjoy thy Triumph to the full

While thy afflicted Husband , mid tears and sighs,

Causes this to be inscribed  in token of his love”

She died on the 20th of April 1669 Aged 38 Years

59

In Memory of

Mrs MARY [FA]RMER

Reclined in here

ROBERT [FA]RMER Esq

of Sandhurst Kent

who died the [  ] day of

November 1808

Aged 7[5][ Years

FARMER see JACKSON

FARTHING see HUGHES

60

In Memory of

TOBIAS FERRALL

who died the 10th Dec 1737

Also

DINAH BRENCHLEY

his eldest Daughter

who died 30th Jan 1757

Likewise

MARY the Wife of

JAMES STONEHOUSE

his second Daughter

died the 2nd July 1760

There is no will for Tobias Ferrall but an Inventory survives in the Kent Archives, where he is noted to be a Carpenter.

FERRALL see PARKER

61

Here lieth the Body of TH[OMAS]

FLETCHER of this Towne [Jurat ?]

and Mayor thereof Anno 166[3]Aged [  ] Years

who left issue one Sonne T[HOMAS]

FLETCHER Aged [59] Years one

Grandchild [    ] FLETCHER

Aged 18 Years and Sonne of

JOHN FLETCHER  deceased

Here lyeth the Body of  MARY

beloved Wife of THOMAS

FLETCHER Gent who departed

this Life  the Third of  [       ]

Anno Dom MDCCXII A[ged] [  ] [    ]

Here also lyeth the [said]

above THOMAS FLET[CHER  who]

departed this Life  [                      ]

in the Eighty Fourth

[Year of his Age]

FLETCHER see MORDEN

FOGGE see CRIPPS

62

Here lyeth the Body of

FRANCIS FOX

Son of EDWARD and

MARY FOX

who died ye 13th day of June

1736

in the 11th Year of his Age

Also the above said

EDWARD FOX

of [Lon ?]don who died the

8th of December 1736

Aged 56 Years

63

[                             ]

[      ] TERLIS FRANCKL[YN]

[    ] obii[t] Octob.

Anno [Domini] [M]DCLXXX

Aetatis LXXX

[          ]

[FRAN]CKLYN obiit [         ]

Anno Sal[utis] MDCC[        ]

Aetatis XV[       ]

[          ] IAS C[ ]ALTER[IS]

obiit  Januar [   ]

[An]no Sa[lutis] MDCCVIII

Aetatis LXXI[  ]

[                               ]

64

[                                ]

JOHN FRANCKLYN Gent

Obiit ii Jan 1697

Here also lye 4 Sons & 2 Daughters

[of] WALTER & ELIZ. FRANCKLYN

[the] Daughter of Mr JN WEEKES

[of] this Town

[Here] also lye PETR. & MARY 2

Children  of WALTER FRANCKLYN

and JANE his present Wife

who died Young

[Here] also lieth the Body of

[JAM]ES eldest Son of the above

said WALTER  and JANE

FRANCKLYN who died

M[   ] 17th 1751 in the 22nd Year of his Age

Here also lieth the Body of

JOHN FRANCKLYN who died

April 23rd 1754 Aged 42 Years

Here also lieth the Body of

ANN FRANCKLYN Widow of the

above said JOHN FRANCKLYN

who died March the 24th

178[7] Aged 72 Years

65

[                                         ]

CHRISTOPHOR[US] FULLAGAR

Generosus

Obiit XII die July

Anno

Aetatis LVI

Salutis MDCCXIX

Hic sepulia jacet ELIZABETHA

CHRISTOPHRUS FULLAGAR Generosus

charissima Uxor  VALENTINI

CHADWICKE de East Peckham

Vicarii dilestissima filia quae

et si non annis tandem virtute

et pietate repletam vitam egit

et deo sic volente praemature

Obiit decimo quinto died Octobris

Anno Domini 1693

Aetat XX Expectans

per Jesum Christum felicem

Resurrectionem

ANNA FULLAGAR supra nominati

CHRISTOPHORI FULLAGAR vidua

Obiit XIII die Maii

Anno

Dom MDCCLXII

Aetatis suae LXXXVII

ANNA MARIA FULLAGAR

Obiit XIV die Julii

Anno

Aetatis LXII

Salutis

MDCCLXIII

66

Here [                            ]

[          ] FULLAGAR [            ]

Here [                            ]

[                                        ]

Likewise the Body of MARY

the Wife of Mr SAMUEL

FULLAGAR

who died  the 23rd [           ]

1738 Aged 37 Years

[left] issue a Son & a Daughter viz CHRIS

and ANNA MARIA

ANNA MARIA died the 18th of Ju[  ]

1738 Aged 9 Weeks

SAMUEL FULLAGAR Gent

died D[ecember] [  ] 1770

Aged [  ] [Years]

CHRIS. FULLAGAR

Son of the said SAMUEL

died the 21st Nov 1785 Aged 48 Years

[                                ]

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 8th September 1770

Samuel Fullagar of Maidstone, Gentleman.

His son and executor, Christopher, out of money due from the 3 ½ % Bank Stock, 1756,  will purchase £500 Capital Stock of New South Sea Annuities and transfer it to himself, the Reverend Mr Donne and 3 more of the principal subscribers of the Charity Schools at Maidstone, upon trust, the ½ yearly dividends to be paid to that charity. Also to the Charity Schools, money he paid over and above what he has received ? He has long been a subscriber to the charity.

To the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge, £160, he presumes this will produce 5 guineas per annum. 

Is son will, in the Winter following his death, distribute £100 among poor housekeepers of Maidstone by at least 10 shillings each but more according to the size of the family.

His debts to be paid and his son to employ Mr Thomas Williams to assist him to sort out the papers  and writings left in his house and deliver them to the persons to whom they belong.

To his brother Christopher, £20 for mourning.

To the 2 servants with him at his death, £20 each.

Rest and residue of real and personal estate to his son, Christopher who he appoints executor.

Will not witnessed.

Affidavit 14th March 1771

John Kent of Maidstone, Inn Holder and Thomas Williams of Maidstone, Gentleman, state upon oath that they knew the testator well and are acquainted with his handwriting and signature. They have carefully examined the will and believe the writing is in his hand and the signature is authentic.

Proved 20th March 1771

Notes in the Margin.

1st June 1808

The will was not administered by Christopher Fullagar, who died intestate (sic) ? Administration granted to Thomas K??h of [Ray]monds Inn ?, Middlesex, Gentleman, on behalf of Thomas Sellen of Smarden, Stay Maker, regarding his interest in 2 pieces of land at Thurnham. This is held by him for a term of 500 years granted by Samuel Fullagar on 29th March 1744, his interest in the estate is confined only to this land.

31st December 1827

Administration granted to William Wood of Newport, Isle of Wight, Gentleman on behalf of Edward Wise of Hill Grove, Isle of Wight, Esquire

Concise Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will Dated 11th May 1774

Christopher Fullagar of Maidstone, Gentleman.

To the Honourable Charles Marsham, Esquire, the Reverend John Donne, the Reverend William Polhill and John Brenchley, all of Maidstone, £500 upon trust, for 2 charity schools in Maidstone, as they think fit.

To Prudence Edmonds of Maidstone, Spinster, the house she now lives in, for life, rent free and free from paying any sums she may owe him. She also to have an annuity of £50 for life.

To her brother, Robert Edmonds, an annuity of £20 for life.

To his servant Caroline Price, an annuity of £50 for life.

To his servant, Elizabeth Scoons, an annuity of £10 for life.

To Mrs Hester Barret, an annuity of £20 for life.

To John Titus of Maidstone, an annuity of £10 for life.

He charges his real and personal estate with these annuities. If any annuity is unpaid the beneficiaries can enter the land and property to distrain it until payment is made.

To his friend John Kent, all those houses and cottages , warehouse and outhouses, occupied by Isaac Leeds, in Maidstone, for ever. Also to John Kent, £2,000.

Also to Hester Barret, a house and garden where she lives, for life.

Rest and residue  of real and personal estate to Godfrey Kneller of Don???dham near Shaftesbury, Dorset and Rebecca, his wife, for ever. He appoints Godfrey Kneller his executor.

Witnesses: Richard Gammon  Richard Clifford  William Roffe

Proved 16th December 1785

Note in Margin

17th December 1811

The will was not administered by Rebecca Kneller, widow of Godfrey Kneller and surviving residuary legatee. Administration was granted to Kitty Kneller, Spinster and executor of Rebecca Kneller.

FULLAGAR see BARRETT

67

Hic Jacet

FRANCISCA Uxor bene merita

DAVIDUS FULLER et Filia

ROBERTI SAUNDERS Genorosi

Obiit vicesin[ ]o secundi Martii

Anno  Aetatis 32nd

Domini 177 7

                    8

GARDINER see CURTEIS

GENTILE see POPE

68

[                            ]

SAMUEL GILES

died March 26th 1806

Aged 43 Years

SARAH GILES

Wife of the above

died Feb 25th 1844

Aged 79 Years

Concise Consistory Court Of Canterbury Will Dated 22nd May 1804

Samuel Giles of Maidstone, Bricklayer and Stone Mason

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

He desires to be buried in the same grave as his great uncle, John Rawlings in Maidstone parish church, (perhaps the Rawlings stone was replaced by that of Giles, there is no Rawlings in the survey of ledger stones).

His 4 freehold houses with yards and gardens in Upper Stone Street, Maidstone, now or late occupied by William Phipps, Thomas Evenden and Thomas Paine, to his wife, Sarah, over and above their marriage settlement, for life. After her death, to his mother Elizabeth Giles, widow, for life. After her death, to his 2 brothers, Nicholas and William and his sister, Elizabeth, wife of John Howes, for ever, equally shared.

His 4 newly built freehold houses and land in Upper Stone Street, now or late occupied by [          ]

Hateridge, widow, George Thorne, William Gatland and John Dubley, to his mother, Elizabeth, for life. After her death then to his wife, for life and after her death, to his brothers Nicholas and William and his sister Elizabeth, for ever, equally shared.

To his mother, Elizabeth, for life, the dividends on his Capital Stocks and Funds and money in the Bank of England. After her death, then to his brothers and sister, equally shared.

Also to his brothers and sister, £10 each for mourning.

Residue of his goods, chattels household goods, furniture and implements, plate, linen, woollen, china, stock in trade, money, securities for money, book debts, credits and personal estate, after payment of his debts, funeral and probate costs and legacies, to his wife, Sarah, absolutely, provided that in case his wife does not deliver up a Bond to his executors to be cancelled, this he entered into by the will of his late relative, James Waterman of East Sutton, Gentleman, for the payment of a certain sum and to release devises of his real estate by him given and devised of her Dower Rights  under Gavelkind or Common Law of all his real estate within 3 months after his death. If she does not, she to receive no benefits from his will and  bequests made to her will be void and his next of kin will benefit.

Provided, in case he happens to have any children by his wife living at his death or born after the bequest of real estate and  stock in the funds to his mother, brother and sister will be null and void. In that case such real and personal estate to the use and benefit of that child or children, if more than one, equally shared.

He appoints his brothers his executors.

Witnesses: William Smart, Weller Norwood, Attorneys of Charing, William Thomas Tonge, their Clerk

Proved 25th June 1806

Value of goods, chattels and credits, less than £800

69

[                              ]

MARY SUMMERS GLOVER

died May ye 7th 1791

Aged Two Years and8 Months

Also GABRIEL GLOVER

Senr. died August ye 22nd

1795 Aged 53 Years

70

[                          ]

ROB. WILL. Son [of]

HENRY and MARY GO[DDEN]

who died Feb. 8th [     ]

Aged 11 Weeks

ANNA [         ]

Obiit [         ]

[                  ] the

above [                ]

Ob. F[ebruary] 1798

HENRIETT[A] Daughter of

HENRY and [MARY] ? GODDEN

who died 31st of December 1822

Aged 7 Months

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