Monumental Inscriptions of St John the Baptist Church, Halling
Monumental Inscriptions of St John the Baptist Church, Halling - recorded by D. E. Williams 2011.
St John the Baptist Church, Halling from the West
St. John the Baptist church lies on the northern end of a spur of elevated ground, on the west bank of the River Medway, opposite Wouldham, with which it was once connected by a ferry of ancient foundation. The eastern wall of the churchyard incorporates an 18 foot high fragment of the medieval Palace of the Bishops of Rochester. The church contains the well known Brass Monument to Silvester, the wife of William Lambarde, the Kent historian, sitting up in a four poster bed, alongside of which are the twins, whose birth lead to her early death. Lambarde lived in the adjacent palace, which was leased to the family of Silvester's first husband, William Dalyso.
The western part of the churchyard is rather crowded with Yews which makes it rather dark. Part had been allowed to get overgrown; the Allen chest tomb was completely hidden and is being displaced by a large self seeded sycamore.
I have divided the churchyard into 4 areas:
Section A is bounded on the west by the churchyard wall and on the east by a modern path which leads to the tower, and includes the area west of the tower to the south wall.
Section B is a small area between the above path and the path leading to the porch.
Section C is the largest area, north of the church and east of the path to the the porch, bounded by walls on the north and east.
Section D is the area south of the church, which contains no standing monuments, only three fallen ones, of which, only the Pye inscription survive.
Recorded by D. E. Williams Trafalgar Day 2011
INTERIOR OF CHURCH
(Inscriptions no longer visible are from John Thorpe's Registrum Roffenses, 1769)
1. Ledger (Thorpe)
IN MEMORY OF
WILLIAM SON OF
WILLIAM AND ANN BAKER
OF THIS PARISH
DIED APRIL 9th 1773
AGED 7 YEARS
2. Brass on Ledger, With Five Coats of Arms (Thorpe)
ORATE PRO ANIMABUS JOHANNIS COLARD NUPER UNIUS CLERICORUM REGIS IN
SACCARIO SUO PER XXXVIII ANNOS ET MARGERII CONSORTIS EJUSDEM QUORUM
ANIMABUS PROPITIETUR DEUS
3. Small Ledger, Centre Nave Aisle
FRANCES
COMPORT
DIED 2nd OCTOBER
1824
AGED 62 YEARS
Frances Comport, Spinster of Halling. P.C.C. (Prerogative Court of Canterbury) Will dated 16th September 1824
To Peggy Towers wife of Thomas Towers, house, land and two cottages adjoining her house in Lower Halling, including an orchard, a garden, yard and field called 40 acres, and other land of 1¼ acres.
The interest on £4,000 of 3% Consols in the Bank of England, to Peggy Towers for life, after her death to Thomas Towers for life. Then the £4,000 to William Mungeam, Senior of Meopham.
Also to Peggy Towers, furniture, plate, linen, china, books, jewellery and trinkets in her house.
To Rebecca Knight wife of Thomas Knight of Snodland interest on £1,000 stock, as above, for life, then the £1,000 to William Mungeam, Senior.
To Catherine Cross of Brixton, £100. To Charlotte Shirley wife of William Shirley of Rockingham Row in the Kent Road, £100. To Sophia Cross, daughter of Catherine Cross, £100. To William Gill of Southwark, £50. To John Gill of Cobham, £50. To Frances Mungeam, wife of William, Senior, £100. To Mrs Frances Southgate, widow of Snodland, £50. To Mrs Holding wife of William Holding of Halling, £50.
To John Wickham, her god son, son of Edward Wickham of Marden, £100.
Residue, including freeholds not previously given, to children of William Mungeam of Meopham in equall shares.
William Mungeam, William Holding, Frances Southgate and Sarah Holding are Executors.
Witnesses: Sarah Castle, John Heath, Ferryman at Halling Ferry and George Kent Trested, Surgeon of East Malling.
Proved 10th November 1824
4. Marble Tablet High on North Arcade of Nave
NEAR
THIS PLACE LIETH THE REMAINS OF
FRANCES COMPORT
WHO DIED THE 2nd DAY OF OCTOBER 1824
AGED 62 YEARS
DALYSON see LAMPARDE
DENE see LAMPARDE
5. Ledger in Chancel (Thorpe) See Also Churchyard
HERE LYETH THE BODY OF
WILLIAM DIBLEY
OF THIS PARISH
[WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE]
[1694]
AGED ABOUT [ ] [YEARS]
LEAVING 3 SONS AND 3 DAUGHTERS
William Dibly, of Lower Halling, Yeoman. P.C.C. Will dated 17th November 1693.
To his sons, Thomas (headstone in churchyard) and William, £200 each at 21 years.
If his wife and executor, Frances, marries again before they are of age, then sums of £200 to be paid sons immediately after her marriage, unless she gives sufficient securities for the sums.
To son John(see below) £200, conditions as above.
To daughter, Elizabeth Dibly, £100.
Residue to wife; she to bring up children without deducting anything from their legacies.
His real estate to wife, and property lately purchased from the Gamballs, now in the occupation of ------- Browne and himself, for her life. After her death to son Thomas.
Witnesses: Mark of Ursella Browne, Rose Chambers and Mark of William Say.
Proved 31st May 1694
6. Ledger in Chancel (Thorpe) See Also Churchyard
HERE LYETH THE BODY OF
JOHN DIBLEY
SON OF WILLIAM DIBLY
OF THIS PARISH, GENT.
AND FRANCES HIS WIFE
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
OCT. 22nd 1730
AGED 39 YEARS
John Dibly, of Halling, Yeoman, Rochester (Consistory or Archdeaconry Court) Will, dated 13th December 1729.
Desires to be buried in the chancel of Halling church.
All freeholds and land to Mrs Frances Taylor, widow, for life. After her death to cousin Nicholas Wray for life; if Nicholas has a son, he desires that son's name be Dibly, in that case the property goes to that son. If there is no son or his name is not Dibly, then property to Nicholas Wray's daughter, Frances Wray.
To Frances Taylor, widow, £50, within three months of his death, and £50 more, within twelve months, also such household goods as she may desire during her lifetime. She is to give a bond of sufficient value to return them at her death to his executor, in same condition, ordinary wear and tear excepted.
Releases and forgives Frances Taylor, widow and daughter Elizabeth, debts owed to him for board and other reasons, provided she releases him from any debts owed. If not her legacies are void.
To Elizabeth Taylor daughter of Frances, £10 to buy mourning. To god son John Tomlyn son of James Tomlyn of Cuxton, £100 at 21. To Mr John Martin a silver watch. To cousin Nicholas Wray the lease held of the Dean and Chapter of Rochester on the Parsonage of Halling.
Residue to Nicholas Wray, to sell to pay Wray's daughter Frances at 21. If she dies before 21, then to her sister Jane at 21. Nicholas Wray to keep interest and surplus of personal estate for maintenance and education of daughters. Nicholas Wray, within a year of Dibly's death to give a bond of sufficient amount to other executor, Francis Brooke to pay surplus of personal estate to his children as directed . Nicholas Wray and Francis Brooke of West Malling, joint executors.
Witnesses: Barbara Wood, Thomas Fowler and William Cox
FRYLAND see WOOD
7. Brass on North East Wall of Nave, above Pulpit
This is the well known, rather crude, image of a
Woman in a four poster bed, surrounded by her
children, including the two twin South
GEMELLIPARAE POSITUM
SILVESTER THE DAUGHTER OF ROBERT DENE GENT AND OF
MARGARET WHYTE HIS WIFE)WAS BORN THE 18th DECEMBER
1554 MARYED TO WILL DALYSON ESQUIRE THE 29th JUNE 1573
AFTER THAT MARYED TO WILLIAM LAMPARDE GENT THE 28th
MARCH 1583 AND DIED THE 1st SEPT 1587 LEAVING ON
LYVE BY WILLIAM DALYSON, SILVESTER A DAUGHTER AND
MAXIMILLIAN, A SON AND BY WILLIAM LAMBARDE
MOULTON, A SON, MARGARET, A DAUGHTER AND GORE AND
FANE SONNES AND TWINNS
"NON ILLA REVERENTIOR ULLA DEORUM"
8. Ledger (Thorpe)
HERE LYETH THE BODY OF
GEORGE SMALL
SON OF
RICHARD AND ELIZABETH SMALL
OF THIS PARISH, YEOMAN
WHO DIED JANUARY THE 21st 1739/40*
AGED 17 YEARS
[*Register December 1739]
9. Ledger, Partly Under Step (Thorpe)
HERE LYETH THE BODY OF
JAMES TAYLOR
SON OF JAMES TAYLOR, GENT
AND FRANCES HIS WIFE
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
[NOVEMBER 1727]
[AGED 18 YEARS]
10. Small Ledger, Centre Nave Aisle
PEGGY
TOWERS
DIED 18th MARCH
1834
AGED 70 YEARS
THOMAS TOWERS
DIED 31st AUGUST 1837
AGED 76 YEARS
11. Marble Tablet, High on South Arcade of Nave
NEAR
THIS PLACE LIETH THE REMAINS OF
Mrs PEGGY TOWERS
WIFE OF
Mr THOMAS TOWERS
OF THIS PARISH
WHO DIED THE 18th OF MARCH 1834
AGED 70 YEARS
ALSO OF THE ABOVE
Mr THOMAS TOWERS
WHO DIED THE 31st AUGUST 1837
AGED 76 YEARS
Thomas Towers, of Halling, Gentleman P. C. C. Will dated 27th June 1836
To Isabella wife of Mr John Pooley of No 6 Church Row, Newington, Surrey, £100. To Elizabeth wife of John West of Rochester, Tallow Chandler, £20,. To Edmund Robert Coles of Rochester, Gentleman, £30. To Ann Freeland of Rochester, widow, Wharfinger, £20. To John Finch of Colchester, Essex, £10. To Rose Mast of Ramsey, Huntingdonshire, £5. To Edward Finch of Rochester, Plumber and Glasier, £10. To Joseph Finch of Chatham Dock Yard, Rigger, £15.
To John Finch of Mill Hill, Bargeman, £20. To William Finch of Rochester, Coal Merchant, £20. To Ann Viner eldest daughter of William Viner of West Malling, £10, to her sister Mary Waugh Viner, £10 to their brother John ------ Viner of West Malling, Linen Draper, £10. To Frances Southgate of Snodland, widow, £30. To William Mungeam the Elder of Meopham, Gentleman, £17. To John May Wickham of St. Margaret, Rochester, Butcher, £10. To Joseph Finch all his wearing apparel and personal linen. To Rose Mast a silver pint mug. To Elizabeth West a silver milk pot. To Ann Freeland a silver pepper pot. To Edward Finch a silver quart mug. To Frances Southgate a pair of silver salts. To William Mungeam the Elder, a silver quart cup and pair of plated candlesticks.
Remainder of plate and all household effects, residue of personal estate, money, securities, etc.,divided equally between Frances Southgate and William Mungeam the Elder.
Frances Southgate, William Mungeam and Edward Robert Coles, Executors.
Witnesses: George Essell, Attorney at Law, Rochester and Gabriel Couves, Clerk to Messrs Twopenny and Essell, Solicitors, Rochester.
Proved 18th September 1837
12. Very Eroded Ledger, East End of Nave, by Chancel Step
[HERE LIETH THE B]ODY OF
[ROBERT W]OOD,[GENT ?] OF
[THIS PARISH ?] WHO DEPARTED
[THIS LIFE] 14th OF JULY 1738
[AGED] [ ] YEARS
[ALSO THE BODY OF] FRANCES
[DAUGHTER OF] Mr ROBERT
[WO]OD L[ATE] WIFE OF
[THOMAS] FRYLAND
[WHO] DIED 3rd OF FEBRUARY
[174]2 AGED 31 YEARS
Robert Wood, of Upper Halling, Gentleman. P.C.C. Will dated 26th April 1738
Desires to be "buryed in the middle isle of the Parish Church of Halling near the chancel............. a handsome stone to be laid over me with a small Inscription................. that six of my neighbouring friends may be invited to my funerall to support the pall....................To the Pall bearers a ring of gold of the value of 1 guinea in remembrance of me".
To Mr John Corrall of Maidstone, Gentleman, John Wood of Meopham, Shopkeeper, William Gates of Chatham, Gentleman, Anne Cox of Wouldham, widow, his loving wife Barbara, Mr Charles Rochester and Mr George Lattenden (his two trustees and executors) a ring of gold of a guinea value, "to wear in remembrance of me".
To Charles Rochester and George Lattenden 20 guineas each. To grandson Robert Rochester, son of daughter, Frances, all his plate and watch. To John Taylor "my gun which I lately lent him".
To wife, Barbara, all the furniture now standing in any two rooms in his house, as she likes.
Property and lands to use of grandson, Robert Rochester, if he has no heirs of his body, then to his Right heirs. All his money, securities, etc. Upon Trust, upon all his estate in Halling called Hall Place, where he now lives, and all his debts, goods, chattles, linen, pewter, brass, beds, bedding, household stuff and implements; leases, stocks, husbandry tackle and personal estate to "good friends", Charles Rochester of London, Gentleman and George Lattenden of Frindsbury, Gentleman and wife Barbara, in Trust, to sell leases of farms, all his horses, cows, sheep, ploughs, corn sown on the ground and in the barns, hops, hop poles,husbandry tackle, household goods within and out of doors, remainder of furniture, to sell and purchase property and lands in fee simple, within 80 miles of the City of London, for use of grandson Robert Rochester, if he has no heirs of his body, to his Right heirs.
Until purchase or purchases made money to be invested by trustees in Government Bonds, etc. Interest from time to time paid to person or persons entitled to it. When property purchased, rents and profits, in Trust for grandson, Robert Rochester until he is 21, paying from time to time for his maintenance and education, his grandson to "be handsomely educated"
Trustees also his executors.
Witnesses: Henry Durling, Henry Durling, Junior and William Gates
Proved 17th November 1738
CHURCHYARD
13. Headstone and Curbs, Section B
IN MEMORY OF
ESTHER ELIZABETH
DAUGHTER OF
WILLIAM JAMES & SARAH ANN ADAMS
DIED SEPTR. 17Th 1875
AGED 2 YEARS & 10 MONTHS
ALSO OF
WILLIAM HAMILTON
ELDER SON OF THE ABOVE
WHO DIED AT ENDICOTT FEB. 14th 1891
AGED 23 YEARS
INTERRED AT FAIRBURY CEMETERY
NEBRASKA, U. SOUTH A.
"Gone but not Forgotten"
William Adams, father of Esther and William, (Section C), Publican, the "Walnut Tree"
(P.O. Directory, 1874)
14. Plain, Classical Chest Tomb, (at time of writing, being pushed over by self seeded Sycamore!) Section A
THE ALLEN/ RUSSELL/ SHEPHERD/ SMITH TOMB
ERECTED 1755 FOR ANN ALLEN
THIS WAS HIDDEN UNDER A MASS OF BRAMBLES & IVY. THE SYCAMORE
AGAINST THE NORTH SIDE IS BEGINNING TO SHIFT THIS MONUMENT.
NORTH Side
SACRED TO THE MEMORY OF
ANN ALLEN WIFE OF HENRY ALLEN
OF THIS PARISH DIED 11th NOV. 1755
AGED 56 YEARS
SOUTH Side
ALSO THEIR TWO SONS
HENRY ALLEN DIED 21st NOV. 1758
AGED 34 YEARS
THOMAS ALLEN DIED 27th JAUARY 1765
AGED 44 YEARS
WEST Side
ALSO
MARY RUSSELL
SISTER OF ANN ALLEN
DIED 27th OCTOBER 1759
AGED 54 YEARS
EAST Side
Eroded Except
DIED OCT.
Thomas Allen, Farmer of Halling, (Section A). P.C.C. Will dated 24th October 1759
Desires to be buried in churchyard at Halling. Personal estate to Mr Nathaniel Causton and £110. To Mary Russell and Sarah Shepherd, £100 each. To Mr John Slack and Thomas Slack, £50 each. To Mr John Allen of East Malling, £100. The residue to Mrs Patience Smith who is also Executor.
Witnesses: John Loft, Thomas Gillen and Elizabeth Simmons
Mary Russell (Section A, Allen Tomb) Her Rochester Will dated 30th November 1758, is written in her own hand.
Desires "a very good coffin, shroud and sheet" and to be buried in "sister Allen's grave".
Nephew Thomas Allen, sole Executor.
£20 to "dear Mr Causton".
£30 to "sister Shepherd" £30 to "sister Smith" £5 to nephew Thomas Slack.
To Mr Charles Shelton, £10, "miniser (sic) of Globe Ally" ?
To "sister" Smith her little bible; to "sister" Shepherd a little ring; to "brother" Slack, a mourning ring.
Bed, furniture and "all that belongs to the room", to "sister" Smith. To her daughters, nieces, Betsy Smith and Sally Smith, all wearing apparel, equally shared.
To "dearly beloved" nephew, Thomas Allen "my watch" and all residue.
Witnesses: Mark Austin and Thomas Gillett
Proved 19th December 1759
15. Ledger (Eroded)
HERE LIETH THE BODY OF
ELIZABETH SMITH WHO DEPARTED
THIS LIFE OCTOBER THE 10th ? [1767]
AGED 53? YEARS
ALSO THE BODY OF
Mrs SARAH SHEPHERD [WIFE OF]
Mr JOHN SHEPHERD, GENT. [ ]
LONDON WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
JULY THE [ ] 1773 AGED 31 YEARS
John Shepherd, Gentleman of York Place, Walworth. (Section A, Allen Tomb, name may have been on east side, not now visible)
P.C.C. Will dated 18th January 1821. Two Codicils, both dated 30th March 1821.
Desires to be buried "in my family vault at Halling", and that his housekeeper Mrs Susannah Mc Cowen, "do follow me to my grave"
To his friends,Mr Josiah Robert Harrison, Gentleman now residing at the house of Mr ---------
Williams of Cornhill, Stationer and Mr Henry Heathorn of Maidstone, Gentleman, all his freehold in Rosemary Lane, St. Boltolph, Aldgate,now leased to Mr William Parsons and Mr Joseph Eardley,
Upon Trust, to pay rents to Mrs Susannah Mc Cowen , for her maintenance and that of "my unfortunate grand daughter Frances Eliza Maughes Shepherd who is deprived of reason" for their lifetimes. If Susannah Mc Cowen dies before Frances, trustees to pay for her £60 per annum and place her in care of "some discreet and proper person".
Remainder of income invested in Public Funds. After deaths of latter two, to use of his grandchildren, Eliza, John, Jacob, Henry, Philadelphia and Horace Shepherd, children of late son Jacob, as they reach 21.
To trustees his leasehold dwelling house in York Place, for remaining term, and all fixtures, brewing utensils, small herb still, household furniture, effects, in trust, for use of grand daughter Frances Shepherd and Susannah Mc Cowen; after their deaths to sell and invest money as above, interest used as above..
Care of Frances to Susannah Mc Cowen. If Frances should marry, her legacy to Susannah Mc Cowen.
He has a share in a property in East Malling, called the "Bull" alehouse, his share to trustees to invest as above.
To Susannah Mc Cowen his gold repeating watch, two silver table spoons, two desert spoons, six teaspoons, gold ring which he wears, all wearing apparel and £100, 4% Consolidated Bank Annuities
To nephew, Edward Shepherd, 19 guineas. £5 each to Mr James Blundell and his wife, Georgina, their daughter, Georgina, Sarah Blundell, spinster, niece of James; William Haines and Mrs ---------- Haines, widow. To Trustees 19 guineas each. To Ann Parry, spinster, if she is in his service at his death, £10.
Residue to Trustees upon trust, to invest in Public Funds. Interest for maintenance and education of
grandchildren until they be 21, when all are 21, principal equally divided.
Witnesses: Abraham William Dupere, 22 Crown Row, Newington, Pork Man, C. Buckland, 17 East Lane, Walworth, Tallow Chandler and Robert Cousins, Great Knight Rider Street, Doctors Common
Codicil
Appoints friend Mr Thomas Arbuthnot now of St Martins le Grand, Leather Seller, to be joint trustee and executor.
Witnesses: As above
Codicil
To Thomas Arbuthnot 19 guineas.
Witnesses: As above
Proved 27th April 1821
16. Headstone, (Very Eroded) Section A
[IN MEMORY OF]
[THE CHILDREN OF]
THOMAS AND SARAH
AMOS
[ ]
[THOMAS] BERRY AMOS
[DIED OCTOBER ]1809 AGED [ ]
[THOMAS] AMOS DIED
[MARCH] 1811 AGED [ ] MONTHS
[ELIZABETH?] AMOS
[DIED NOVEMBER 18[14] AGED 10? MONTHS?
[ ]
Thomas Amos, father of the children buried in Section A, was a Farmer at Upper Halling. (Baptism Register, for Elizabeth 1813)
17. Headstone, Section A
IN
LOVING MEMORY
OF
EDMUND BOWLES
WHO DIED 5th APRIL 1877
AGED 58 YEARS
ALSO SARAH
BELOVED WIFE OF THE ABOVE
WHO DIED 16th DECEMBER 1899
AGED 83 YEARS
Edmund Bowles, (Section A) Agricultural Labourer at Court Lodge (1871 Census)
18. Headstone, Section C
SACRED
TO THE MEMORY OF
HARRIET
WIFE OF JOHN BRETT
DIED 2nd MARCH 1836
AGED 42 YEARS
ALSO OF
JOHN BRETT
HUSBAND OF THE ABOVE
DIED 27th JUNE 18[ ]1
AGED 64 YEARS
John Brett (Section C) Possibly a Grocer ? (1851 Census)
19. Headstone, Section C
IN MEMORY OF
JOHN
ELDEST SON OF
WILLIAM AND MARY BRIGDEN
OF THIS PARISH
WHO DIED SEPT. 29th 1863
AGED 17 YEARS
ALSO JOHN ALLEN SON OF
HENRY AND EMILY BRIGDEN
WHO DIED DECR. 31St 1887
AGED 3 YEARS AND 6 MONTHS
William Brigden, father of John (Section C) Farm Bailiff (1851 Census)
20. Small, Eroded Headstone, Section C
HEADSTONE OF JOHN BUNTAIN, 1721
THE ADJACENT, LARGER HEADSTONE, WHICH IS
MOSTLY ERODED MAY BE THAT OF HIS PARENTS.
NOTICE HOW THE BURIED SECTION IS WELL PRESERVED
[HERE] LIES
[YE BOD]Y OF
[JOHN] SON OF
[JOHN] & ANN
[BUN]TAIN
[OF YS] PARISH
WHO DIED OCT.
YE 18th 1721 AGED
16 YEARS
John Buntin,of Cuxton, father of John Buntain(Section C) John Senior was also buried at Halling, perhaps under the eroded headstone next to his son's headstone?
P.C.C. Will, dated 6th November 1739
His estate at Sevenoaks in occupation of Thomas Irton?, to his daughter, Jane Goodwin wife of ---- Goodwin of Nurstead, and to his daughter, Mary Buntin, Spinster of Cuxton, equally. They to pay from estate £40 to his grand daughter, Ann Loft daughter of John Loft of Halling at 21 years. From his personal estate £10 to daughter Mary Buntin "in consideration of her having lived at home with me "Residue of personal estate equally to daughters Jane Goodwin and Mary Buntin, who are joint executors.
Witnesses: Caleb Parfect, William Mudge and Isaac Peak
Proved 14th January 1740
21. Headstone, Section C
IN LOVING MEMORY
OF
MARY ANN BURCHFIELD
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
DEC. 6th 1877 AGED 16 YEARS
"I came to Jesus as I was,
Weary and Worn and Sad,
I found in him a Resting Place,
And he has made me Glad"
ALSO OF
ALBERT BURCHFIELD
AGED 15 MONTHS
Mary Ann Burchfield, (Section C) Daughter of Walter, a Blacksmith, Upper Halling Road (1871 Census)
22. Three Adjoining Headstones, Section C
SACRED
TO THE MEMORY OF
SARAH WIFE OF
THOMAS CASTLE
DIED 20th SEPTEMBER 1834
AGED 53 YEARS
ALSO THE ABOVE
THOMAS CASTLE
DIED 26th APRIL 1838
AGED 59 YEARS
Thomas Castle, died 1838, (Section C)Farmer and Victualler, of Halling. Rochester Will, dated 11th April 1838
Son, by former wife, Thomas, is Executor. To son Thomas, real and personal estate, including mortgage and trust estate. Valuation of personal estate and debts, to be made by John Selby of Birling, Farmer, or other qualified person or persons. Certified amount to be delivered to son, Thomas.
To his present wife and his daughter (by former wife), Sarah wife of William Kimber, 1/3 of cash value each, of personal estate.
If John Selby dies or refuses or neglects to carry out valuation before three months expires after Castle's death, then valuation to be made as soon as possible by two independent persons, one chosen by son the other by wife and daughter.
Valuation to take no account of Publican or Farming business, because he intended son Thomas to take on business, without paying any premium.
Witnesses: Thomas Selby and Silas Norton, Town Malling, Solicitors.
23. Headstone
IN MEMORY
OF
MARY WIFE OF
THOMAS CASTLE
WHO DIED 11th OCTOBER 1838
AGED 27 YEARS
HERE ALSO LIETH THE REMAINS
OF JOSEPH MOROSOFF
SECOND SON OF
THOMAS AND FRANCES
CASTLE
[DIED MARCH 1861]
[AGED 2 YEARS AND 4 MONTHS]
24. Headstone
SACRED
TO THE MEMORY OF
THOMAS CASTLE
OF THIS PARISH
HUSBAND OF
MARY CASTLE
WHO LIETH NEAR THIS SPOT
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
MARCH 27th 1861
AGED 52 YEARS
ALSO SARAH HANNAH
[DAUGHTER] OF THE ABOVE
WHO [DIED] [AUG]UST 29th 1885
[AGED YEARS]
[ ]
Thomas Castle, died 1861,(Section C) Publican and Farmer of Halling, 100 acres, employing 4 men. (1841 & 1851 Census)
25. Five Adjoining Headstones, Section B
IN MEMORY OF ANN THE DAUGHTER
OF ROBERT AND SUSANNAH
CLEMONDS OF THIS
PARISH WHO DIED FEB. 26th ? 1767
AGED 19 ? YEARS
"Tis not for age that I lie here,
It was our Saviour's Will so dear,
[ ] the Small Pox my death did bring,
And in Heaven, Christ's Praises I Sing"
ALSO REBECCA THEIR DAUGHTER
WHO DIED IN HER INFANCY
26. Headstone
CLEMONDS HEADSTONES
ROBERT CLEMONDS, JUNIOR, DIED 1781, ON THE LEFT, AND ON THE RIGHT,
HIS SISTER, ANN, DIED 1767, WHO, AS THE VERSE MAKES CLEAR, DIED FROM SMALLPOX
IN MEMORY OF
ROBERT CLEMONDS
JUNR. WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
OCTOBER THE 14th ? 17[8]1
AGED 42 YEARS
LIKEWISE 2 DAUGHTERS
[ ANN ? ] AND [SARAH ? ]
Robert Clemonds,Senior, died 1782, (Section A)Farmer, probably of "Clements Farm", son of Henry Clemonds of Cuxton.
Susannah Clemonds, died 1803,(Section A) wife of above. Rochester Will, dated19th November 1802.
Thomas Knight of Halling, Yeoman and William Dorrington of West Malling, Collar Maker, joint Executors.
To Sarah wife of Jeremiah Heaver of Ryarsh, Farrier, £20. To Sarah Fairman, grandchild of late son Robert Clemonds, £20 at 21 years, or day of marriage, plus interest from day of Susannah Clemond's death.
All Susannah's term and interest on her farm and lands she now occupies to son in law, William Duppa. Executors to make valuation of all her estate, cost to be met from incoming tenant. One third of total value to son in law William Duppa, and one third to daughter Mary, other third to Robert and Susannah Clemonds, children of her late daughter Elizabeth Clemonds. Residue divided by three, and shared as above.
Signs with a shaky hand and also with a mark.
Witnesses: James Gibbs and George Featherstone
Administration Bond of 8th March 1804 in sum of £,200, signed by Mark of William Duppa, Thomas Knight and William Dorrington, the latter two renouncing.
Proved 10th April 1804, Administration to William Duppa. Value not more than £600
27. Fallen and Broken Headstone
CLEMONDS' HEADSTONE, 1782 & 1803
THE FALLEN AND BROKEN HEADSTONE OF ROBERT AND SUSANNAH CLEMONDS,
PARENTS OF THE ABOVE. ROBERT WAS THE SON OF HENRY CLEMONTS OF CUXTON,
THE SPELLING OF THE NAME SEEMS TO HAVE BEEN RATHER FLEXIBLE,
CLEMENTS FARM, ANOTHER VARIATION
IN
MEMORY OF
ROBERT CLEMONDS
SENORTH WHO DEPARTED
THIS LIFE OCTOBER
THE 27th 1782 MARCH
AGED 72 YEARS
LEFT ISSUE FOUR DAUGHTERS (VIZ) MARY?
MARY, SUSANNAH AND ELIZABETHN
MEMORY OF
SUSANNAH WIFE OF
ROBERT CLEMONDS
DEPARTED THIS LIFE
11th ? 1803
AGED 89 YEARS
28. Headstone
CLEMONDS SISTERS' HEADSTONE
SARAH, DIED 1787 AND ELIZABETH, DIED 1788.
IN MEMORY OF
Mrs SARAH CLEMONDS DAUGHTER OF
ROBERT AND SUSANNAH CLEMONDS
OF THIS PARISH WHO DIED OCTOBER 10th
1787 AGED 50 YEARS
ALSO ELIZTH. HER SISTER DIED 19th OF
DECEMBER 1788 AGED 33 YEARS
"Afflictions Sore long time we Bore,
Physicians were in Vain,
Till God did Please Death should Seize,
And Ease us of our Pain"
29. Headstone
IN MEMORY OF
MARY DAUGHTER OF
ROBERT AND SUSANNAH CLEMONDS
OF THIS PARISH
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE [NOV. [ ] 1803]
AGED 62 YEARS
30. Eroded Headstone, Section A
COCKLE HEADSTONE, 1728 & ?
HERE
LIETH YE BODY OF
JAMES COCKLE
OF YS PARISH, YEOMAN
WHO DEPARTED YS LIFE
[JUNE 1728] IN THE LIFE
IN THE 32nd? YEAR
OF HIS AGEHERE
LYETH YE BODY OF
DEBORAH [WIFE OF ?]
JAMES COCKLE
WHO DEPARTED YS
JULY ? 2Nd ? [ ]
IN THE 6[ ] [YEAR]
OF HER [AGE]
31. Headstone and Body Stone, Section A
SACRED
TO THE MEMORY OF
Mrs MARY CRUSE
WIFE OF Mr THOMAS CRUSE
LATE OF CHATHAM IN THIS COUNTY
WHO DPARTED THIS LIFE JUNE [ ] 1808
AGED [22] YEARS
ALSO
ELIZABETH
THEIR DAUGHTER
WHO DIED MAY 21st? 1806
AGED [3] MONTHS
Mary Cruse and Elizabeth Cruse, wife and daughter of Thomas Cruse (Section A). Thomas Cruse remarried, to Sarah Allum at Chatham in 1809? The Baptism entry of a daughter in 1813, describes him a a Lieutenant of the Royal Marines. At the Baptism of a daughter in 1817 he is a Brewer; is this the same man? Thomas Cruse, the Brewer appears in the "Times" in 1819, when because of his bankruptcy, his stock of brewing equipment is advertised for sale. Clarissa Cruse, baptised at Chatham in 1810, daughter of Thomas and Sarah, was buried at Halling in 1813,(from Chatham); Sarah Cruse of Chatham, aged 28, was buried at Halling in September 1818; and George Cruse, of Brompton, aged 7 was also buried at Halling in 1820. There is no surviving monument for the latter three.
32. Small, Eroded Headstone, Section C (See also Interior)
DIBLY HEADSTONE, 1708
THE EARLIEST DATABLE MONUMENT IN THE CHURCHYARD.
THOMAS DIBLY'S PARENTS ARE BURIED INSIDE THE CHURCH
HERE LYETH
THE BODY OF [THOMAS]
DIBLY [SON OF]
WILL. & FRANORTH DIBLY
OF THIS [PARISH] WHO
DYED [AUGUST] 25th
1708 AGED 26? YEARS
Thomas Dibly, (Section C) A Yeoman Farmer, his parents are buried inside the church. (See Will above)
33. Headstone, Section C
EDMEADS AND FISHER HEADSTONE, 1771 & 1776
THE HEADSTONE OF JOHN EDMEADS AND HIS FORMER WIFE,
JANE FISHER IS RATHER OLD FASHIONED FOR THE 1770's,
LOOKING MORE LIKE ONE FROM THE EARLY 18th CENTURY
IN MEMORY OF
JOHN EDMEADS OF THIS
PARISH WHO DIED AUGUST
THE 30th 1771 [AGED] [ ] YEARS
LEFT ISSUE [ ]
ALSO JANE [FI]SHER FORMERLY
WIFE OF THE ABOVE WHO DIED NOV. 1776
AGED 52 YEARS
John Edmeads, (Section C), Probably a Farmer. Left no will, only an Administration. He married Jane Featherstone at Wouldham in 1760, (both of that parish). Jane remarried to William Fisher of St. Margaret's, Rochester in 1772. Oddly Jane does not appear in the Burial Register as Jane Fisher but as Jane Edmeads?
FISHER see EDMEADS
34. Fallen, Broken Headstone, Section A
IN MEMORY OF
MARGARET WIFE OF JOSEPH GARDINER
WHO DIED THE 5th OF AUGUST 1759
AGED 33 YEARS
LIKEWISE JOSEPH GARDINER
DIED THE 2nd OF MARCH 1763 AGED 38 YEARS
LEFT ISSUE TWO SONS (VIZ)
THOMAS AND JOSEPH
ALSO Mr JOSEPH GARDINER
OF THIS PARISH, MARINER
DIED 5th MARCH 1763 AGED 61 YEARS
Joseph Gardiner, Mariner of Halling, died 1763 (Section A) His P.C.C. Will is dated 25th January 1760
His sons, Thomas and Joseph, are Executors. To Joseph, £20. Residue to sons Thomas and Joseph, equally.
Signs with a mark.
Witnesses: Robert Taylor and Henry Mitton
Proved 22nd August 1763
35. Headstone, Section A
SACRED
TO THE MEMORY OF THOMAS GARDNER
OF THIS PARISH
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE 16th FEB. 1801
AGED 63 YEARS
ALSO ANN GARDNER WIFE OF THE ABOVE
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE 21st? MARCH 1802
AGED 63 ? YEARS
ALSO THOMAS GARDNER SON OF
THE ABOVE WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
27th MARCH 1768 AGED 7 YEARS
ALSO JOSEPH GARDNER SON
OF THE ABOVE WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
[ ] OCTOBER 1783 AGED 18 YEARS
36. Coffin Shaped Chest Tomb, Section C, Close to Chancel
GOLDING TOMB, 1840 & 1849
A RATHER GRIM COFFIN SHAPED MONUMENT, NO SENTIMENT OR
DECORATION FOR THE WIFE AND DAUGHTER OF THE REV. GOLDING!
TO THE MEMORY OF
FRANCES GODFREY
THE BELOVED WIFE OF
OF THE
REV. THOMAS GOLDING
FORMERLY OF THIS PARISH
SHE DIED SEPTEMBER [ ] 1849
AGED 48 YEARS
[Eroded Verses]
ALSO OF
CATHERINE CHARLOTTE
THEIR SECOND DAUGHTER
WHO DIED AT HALLING
AUG. 29th 1840
AGED [12] MONTHS
ALSO OF
SOPHIA ROSA
THEIR THIRD DAUGHTER
WHO DIED AT RINGWOOD
IN THE COUNTY OF HANTSOUTH
[1841]
AGED [ ] MONTHS
37. Headstone, Section B
RICHARD HATCH'S HEADSTONE, 1735
THIS LIES CLOSE TO HIS RELATIVES, THE CLEMONDS
HERE LYETH
THE BODY OF
[R]ICHARD HATCH
OF THIS PARISH
[WHO] DIED JUNE YE 6th
1735
[AGED [ ] YEARS]
Richard Hatch, Yeoman of Halling, (Section B) Buried next to his Clemonds cousins. His Rochester Will is dated 7th February 1735.
His property with orchard and other premises in Trosley, (Trottiscliffe), occupied by William Garrett, to kinsman Robert Clemons of Halling, Yeoman.
(In consideration of goods to be given to Robert Clemons), Clemons shall allow his mother , Mary Clemons, sufficient meat and drink, board, washing and lodging for her lifetime. But if Mary Clemons does not want to continue with Robert Clemons, then Robert shall pay her an annuity of £8 for life.
To kinsman John Higgins of Lenham, Husbandman, £20 and all wearing apparel.
To kinswoman, Ann Whiting, now wife of Amiel Whiting of Burling (sic), Yeoman, £15 and bed, bedsteddle, curtains and valence, one chest of drawers, pair of brass cob irons, now in his best chamber, and were late the property of the mother "of her the said Anne Budds"?
To Mary Boar and Elizabeth Boar, children of his kinswoman, Mary Boar the late wife of William Boar of Halling, Husbandman, £10 each at 21 years. If neither reach 21 years, then the £20 to kinsman, John Higgins, on day youngest would have been 21.
To the poor of Halling, one sack of wheat on first St. Thomas day after his death.
If there is insufficient for his legacies,(" which is really not in doubt"), then his property in Trosley to be sold to provide legacies.
His ready money, interest, stocks, goods, chattles, effects not preiously given to kinsman, Robert Clemons, who is also sole Executor.
Witnesses: Mark of Mary Hood, R. Hood and Henry Jackson
38. Fallen Headstone, Section C
IN MEMORY OF
MARGARET WIFE OF
JOHN HEATH
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
THE 23rd ? OF JANUARY 1821
AGED 59 YEARS
ALSO OF THE ABOVE
JOHN HEATH
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
THE 28th OF FEBRUARY 1844
AGED 73 YEARS
John Heath, died 1844 (Section C) As a witness of Frances Comport's will in 1824, Ferryman of Halling Ferry. In the 1841 Census his occupation is given as "Handicraft"
39. Ledger on Ground, Section C
IN
MEMORY OF
WILLIAM HEATH
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
2nd DECEMBER 1858
AGED 76 YEARS
"Thy Will, O Lord, be Done"
ALSO OF
ELIZABETH HEATH
WIFE OF THE ABOVE
WHO DIED 10th JUNE 1831
AGED 47 YEARS
ALSO OF
JOHN HEATH
SON OF THE ABOVE
WHO DIED 18th APRIL 1846
AGED 23 YEARS
William Heath, died 1858, same Section, Agricultural Labourer ? (1851 Census)
40. Small Stone with Cross, Detached ,Against Yew Tree, Section A
IN
LOVING MEMORY
OF
THOMAS JAMES HILLS
WHO DIED NOVEMBER 10th 1882
AGED 3 YEARS & 10 MONTHS
"He shall gather the Lambs
With his Arms and carry
Them in his Bosom"
Thomas Hills, (Section A) Father was a Labourer at Cement Works (1881 Census)
41. Headstone, Section A
IN MEMORY OF
ALLAN KEMSLEY
WHO DIED DECEMBER 19th 1901
AGED 2 YEARS, 10 MONTHS
Allan Kemsley, (Section A) Son of Sidney, a Shopkeeper of High Street (1901 Census)
42. "Boulders", Cross Missing, Section B
IN
LOVING
MEMORY OF
FRANCIS
JOHN LAMBERT B.A.
PEMBROKE COLLEGE, OXFORD
ELDEST SON OF THE LATE
CAPTAIN EAST H.G. LAMBERT R.
AND RENIRA ANNA HIS WIFE
BORN NOV. 23rd 1866
DIED AT HALLING
VICARAGE JA 13th 1892
43. Very Tall, Mostly Eroded Headstone, Section C
"[ ] keeps my Memory Green"
SACRED
TO
THE MEMORY
OF
WILLIAM MILLS
[WHO DIED ] NOVEMBER 186[6]
[AGED 64 YEARS]
[ ]
William Mills, died 1866 (Section C) Cordwainer (1851 Census)
44. Headstone, Section A
IN MEMORY
OF
HARRIETT MILLS
DIED 4th MAY 1895
AGED 69 YEARS
ALSO EDWARD MILLS
HUSBAND OF THE ABOVE
DIED 13th APRIL 1878 AGED 57 YEARS
ALSO WILLIAM ONLY SON OF THE ABOVE
DIED 17th OCTOBER 1874 AGED 34 YEARS
ALSO MILDRED DAUGHTER OF
WILLIAM MILLS
DIED 24th FEBRUARY 1895 AGED 26 YEARS
ALSO HARRIETT LETCHFORD
DIED 25th FEBRUARY 1881 AGED 74 YEARS
Edward Mills, died 1878 (Section A) Publican and Coal Merchant, "Five Bells" (1871 Census)
Harriett Mills, died 1895 (Same Grave) Publican, "The Robin Hood"
46. Headstone, Section A
IN
LOVING MEMORY
OF
KATE MILLS
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE SEPTEMBER 26th 1895
AGED 47 YEARS
ALSO
WALTER MILLS
HUSBAND OF THE ABOVE
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE JUNE 6th 1915
AGED 72 YEARS
Walter Mills, died 1915 (Section A) Publican "Homeward Bound"
47. Headstone, Close to Tree, Section A
IN
[LOVING MEMORY OF]
ADA LOUISE
DAUGHTER OF
EDWARD & LILIAN MORRIS
DIED MARCH 3rd 1886
AGED 5 YEARS
ALSO
LILIAN ELIZA
DIED MARCH 11th 1887
AGED 7 YEARS
48. Coped Stone, Close to Chancel, Section C
SOUTH Side
IN THIS GRAVE IS DEPOSITED THE BODY OF
HARRIET NALSON
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE MAY 24th 1867
IN THE 71st YEAR OF HER AGE
NORTH Side
IN AFFECTIONATE MEMORY OF
JOSHUA NALSON M.A.
FOR 33 YEARS VICAR OF THIS PARISH
DIED JUNE 27th 1883 IN HIS 81st YEAR
ESTEEMED AND REGRETTED BY ALL
"Gone to Rest"
49. Headstone, Section C
SACRED
TO THE MEMORY OF
MARY ANN
WIFE OF
EDWARD NORMAN
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
ON THE 14th DAY OF JUNE 1849
IN THE 44th YEAR OF HER AGE
ALSO OF FREDERICK SON OF THE
ABOVE WHO DIED ON THE 25th DAY OF
MAY 1849 AGED 4 MONTHS AND 21 DAYS
ALSO WALTER NORMAN
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
JANUARY 20th 1859 AGED 3 YEARS
ALSO GEORGE NORMAN
SON OF THE ABOVE
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE ON THE
10th DAY OF FEBRUARY 1865 AGED 29 YEARS
50. Headstone, Section C
SACRED
TO
THE MEMORY OF
EDWARD NORMAN
BORN 4th JUNE 1805
DIED 26th JANUARY 1880
AGED 74 YEARS
ALSO OF
SARAH
WIFE OF THE ABOVE
BORN 25th NOVEMBER 1822
DIED 30th MAY 1880
AGED 57 YEARS
"And the Spirit shall return unto
God who gave it"
Edward Norman, (Section C) Farmer and Publican., "The Plough", Member School Board 1880
(1858 Melville Directory/ 1874 Post Office Directory)
51. Large, Eroded Limestone Headstone, Section C
THE OLIFF HEADSTONE, 1798, 1810, 1819 & 1823
BEGINNING WITH JAMES, WHO FELL FROM THE TOWER OF ST. MARGARET'S CHURCH,
THIS IS A DIFFICULT STONE TO READ OR PHOTOGRAPH, BEING A RATHER STARTLING WHITE.
THERE IS ANOTHER INSCRIPTION ON THE BACK TO THOMAS OLIFF BUT NO DETAILS CAN BE MADE OUT
SACRED TO THE MEMORY OF
JAMES SON OF JONATHAN AND SUSANNAH OLIFF
HE MET HIS EARLY DEATH [ ] BY A FALL FROM
THE TOWER OF ST. MARGARET'S CHURCH, NEAR ROCHESTER
WHO DIED THE 20th OF AUGUST 1798
AGED 13 YEARS AND 4 MONTHS
[ALSO] WILLIAM OLIFF DIED 5th DEC. 1810
AGED 29 YEARS
[Eroded Verses]
ALSO THE ABOVE JONATHAN OLIFF
[WHO DIED DECEMBER [ ] ]1819 AGED 75 YEARS
ALSO SUSANNAH OLIFF
[WHO] DIED MAY 18th 182[3] AGED 79 YEARS
William Oliff, (Section C) Victualler of Chatham. Rochester Will dated 3rd October 1810
His "dear father" Jonathan Oliff, Yeoman "now residing with me", and brother John Oliff of Bredhurst, Butcher, appointed Executors.
Two freeholds, cottages and barns, stables, orchards, meadows, etc. in Snodland, Upon Trust,, to sell and hold proceeds upon trust. This money and residue of estate, upon trust, for benefit of father Jonathan and mother, Susannah. When they or survivor, "decline the same", then upon trust and invested in Government Funds. Interest and dividends to his parents for life. After their deaths, upon trust, to sell stock in trade and to cash in Funds, to be equally divided amongst "my dear brothers and sisters" living at time of his death. The child or children of any deceased sibling in like fashion.
Witnesses: E. Yemes, Henry Dustin and J. Stephens
Proved 29th July 1811
Value less than £200
52. Headstone, Section C
IN
AFFECTIONATE REMEMBRANCE OF
GEORGE PEARCE
DIED OCTOBER 9th 1885
"Not gone from Memory, not gone from Love,
But gone to his Father in Heaven above,
Thy Will be done seems hard to say,
When those we Love are called Away"
"Forever with the Lord"
ALSO ROSE HIS BELOVED WIFE
WHO PEACEFULLY FELL ASLEEP MARCH 4th 1905
AGED 73 YEARS
"The Weary are at Rest"
53. Headstone, Section C
SACRED
TO THE MEMORY OF
HARRIETT
WIFE OF THOMAS PETERS
WHO DIED JANY. 12TH 1878
AGED 78 YEARS
ALSO OF
THOMAS PETERS
WHO DIED FEB. 25th 1881
AGED 80 YEARS
Thomas Peters, (Section C) Agricultural Labourer (1841 Census)
54. Fragment of Headstone, Lying in South East Corner
SACRED
[T]O THE MEMORY O[F]
WILLIAM GEORGE PI[ ]
[WHO] DIED THE 30th OF SEPTEMBER [ ]
[AGED] 4 YEARS AND 4 [MONTHS]
55. Headstone, Section C
"In the Midst of Life we are in Death"
IN
AFFECTIONATE REMEMBRANCE OF
HENRY PRING
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
22nd FEBRUARY 1875
AGED 19 YEARS
ALSO
JESSE PRING
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
28th SEPTEMBER 1876
AGED 28 YEARS
TWO BROTHERS ACCIDENTALLY KILLED
WHILST AT THEIR EMPLOYMENT
"Love looks below with Weeping Eyes,
Where her long cherished Treasures lie,
Our Sweet Companionship is o'er,
Our Pilgrim Friends return no more"
Henry and Jesse Pring, (Section C)
KENT MESSENGER 20th OCTOBER 1876
SHOCKING AND FATAL ACCIDENT AT THE SNODLAND CEMENT WORKS
CORONER'S INQUEST
"On Thursday evening, last a coroner's inquest was held at the "Black Boy" Inn, Upper Halling, near Snodland, before G. Winch, Esq. Deputy- coroner for Rochester, touching the death of Jesse Pring, aged twenty-seven, who was accidentally killed early on Thursday morning last, while attending to a steam engine, on Messrs Lee, Smith and Company's cement works in the parish of Snodland.
The body of the deceased man was lying at the cottage occupied by his parents, to which it had been removed, and here the jury, of which Mr J.P. Simmons was chosen foreman, viewed it.-- John Beadle, residing at Holborough, in the parish of Snodland, deposed that he was a stoker, employed with the deceased, who was an engine driver, at the cement works.
Witness went to work at a quarter- past five o'clock, and the deceased arrived a few minutes after six. The deceased went to his engine, which was used for the purpose of drawing chalk up out of the pit. The steam was up and the deceased started the engine. He took his oil can, and the moment he stooped for the purpose of oiling the crank his foot slipped and he fell down into the crank pit.
The crank struck him , and drew him under with it. Witness immediately stopped the engine, called for assistance, and the deceased was got out of the pit. He bled very much from his mouth, nose and ears. A surgeon was sent for, but the deceased died before his arrival. He lived for about an hour after the accident occurred, but was not conscious.
He had been engaged about eighteen months at the engine, and perfectly understood his work.---- In reply to the Foreman of the jury, the witness said he did not think a guard round the engine would be of much use in preventing accidents in the future. It was slippery where the deceased had to place his feet. If anything could be done to prevent accidents in the future he knew Mr Lee would do it. A guard round the engine might prevent a person from falling into the crank pit on any future occasion. -- Mr Edward Beadle, foreman on the works, corroborated the last witness, and deposed to assisting in getting the deceased out of the pit. In reply to the Coroner, the witness said he did not think it was necessary to have a guard round the engine, because it was not usual to oil it when it was in motion.
The Foreman of the the jury: Do you think it was careless on the part of the deceased? -- Witness: Oh, no; it was done without a thought. Messrs Lee and Co. would do anything they could to prevent an accident in the future.
Mr William Alexander Fitzgerald, a surgeon practising at Snodland, gave it as his opinion that the injuries sustained by the deceased were such as would have been caused by being dragged under the crank in question. He saw the deceased after death, and although he was not bleeding then, there were indications that much blood had flowed from the mouth, nose and ears. The body was covered with clotted blood . --- The jury returned a verdict of accidental death. --- Daniel Pring, a brother of the deceased man, afterwards thanked the witness John Beadle for his promptitude in stopping the engine, remarking that the deceased would have been torn to pieces but for this. Pring was a very steady single young man, and the main support of his aged father and mother with whom he lived. The old people, who are respectable cottagers, have not enjoyed the best of health recently, and much sympathy is felt for them. It is a somewhat remarkable circumstance that the deceased man's brother was killed about two years since on the same works, where he was accidentally run over by several chalk trucks, some two years since. A new clock at the works, which had kept going before, stopped at the very moment when the accident occurred."
56. Fallen Headstone, Section C
IN
AFFECTIONATE REMEMBRANCE OF
LETITIA
THE BELOVED WIFE OF
JOHN PRING
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE MARCH 12th 1890
AGED 71 YEARS
"Weep not for me I'm free from pain,
My Earthly Sorrows O'er,
I hope to meet you all again'
On Canaan's Happy Shore"
ALSO OF THE ABOVE
JOHN PRING
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
NOVEMBER 12th 1899
AGED 87 YEARS
[Verses Half Eroded]
57. Fallen Headstone, Section D
SACRED
TO THE MEMORY OF
Mr JOHN PYE
A KIND HUSBAND AND TENDER FATHER
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
AT BREDHURST NEAR CHATHAM
THE 31st DECEMBER 1856
AGED 34 YEARS
ALSO MARY ANN
THE BELOVED WIFE OF THE ABOVE
DIED 23rd APRIL 1874 AGED 49 YEARS
A GOOD WIFE AND LOVING MOTHER
John Pye, Farmer of Bredhurst, (Section D) P.C.C. Will dated 29th December 1856
Brother William Pye of St. Margaret's, Rochester, Farmer, friend Edward Jupp of Cuxton, Farmer and wife, Mary Ann, Executors.
To his wife all freehold property and any portion of household effects and wearing apparel she may choose. Executors to sell all stock and crops on farm at Bredhurst, he now occupies. Money, including from life insurance, to be invested in Government Funds, by executors, in their joint names. Dividends to wife for her support and support and education of daughter, Emma. After wife's death or if she remarries, dividends for benefit of Emma until she is 21. Funds to be transferred to her at 21. If Emma dies in lifetime of his wife or under 21, then Funds to his wife.
Witnesses: Thomas Pemble, Farmer, Bredhurst and William Johnson, Victualler, Bredhurst.
Proved 27th February 1857
58. Small Headstone, Section C
IN MEMORY OF
JOHN RAVEN
BORN 17th FEB. 1861
DIED OCT. 17th 1866
John Raven, (Section C) Son of Henry, a Carpenter (1861 census)
59. Pedestals with Cross and Curbs, Section B
REV. WILLIAM ROBERTS
VICAR OF HALLING
DIED MAY 15th 1904
AGED 76 YEARS
"So He bringeth them unto their desired Haven"
60. Headstone, Section C
IN LOVING REMEMBRANCE OF
ANN
SECOND WIFE OF
RICHARD ROSEBRIDGE
(MOUNT PLEASANT, HOLBORO' RD., S[NODLAND]
WHO DIED APRIL 27th 188[3]
IN THE 72nd YEAR OF HER AGE
[Eroded Verses]
61. Large Square Ledger on Stone Base, Section C
SACRED TO THE MEMORY OF
RICHARD ROSEBRIDGE
[WHO] DIED 17th MARCH 1885 AGED 71 YEARS
ALSO FRANCES WIFE OF THE ABOVE
WHO DIED 5th FEBRUARY 1872 AGED 52 YEARS
ALSO GEORGE SON OF THE ABOVE
DIED 21st SEPTEMBER 1847 AGED 1 YEAR
ALSO RICHARD SON OF THE ABOVE
DIED 6th MARCH 1860 AGED 21 YEARS
AND WAS BURIED IN INDIA
Richard Rosebridge, (Section C) Of 4 Mount Pleasant, Snodland, a Gardener (1881 Census)
RUSSELL see ALLEN
SHEPHERD see ALLEN
62. Pedestal and Cross, Section C
IN LOVING MEMORY
OF
MY DEAR WIFE
MARIA SIMMONS
WHO DIED NOV. 1st 1908
AGED 72
ALSO OF JOHN P. SIMMONS
HUSBAND OF THE ABOVE
WHO DIED APRIL 9th 1911 AGED 78
SMITH see ALLEN
63. Headstone, Section A
SACRED
TO THE MEMORY OF
SARAH WIFE OF
STEPHEN STEVENS
CLERK OF THIS PARISH
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
THE [ ] DAY OF MARCH 1818
AGED 44 YEARS
ALSO OF THE ABOVE
STEPHEN STEVENS
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
ON THE 24th OF SEPTEMBER 1840
AGED 69 YEARS
LEFT ISSUE FOUR SONS AND ONE DAUGHTER
JOHN, STEPHEN, ISAAC, WILLIAM
AND ANN
64. Headstone, Next to Latter
SACRED
TO THE MEMORY OF
MARTHA STEVENS
THE BELOVED WIFE OF
STEPHEN STEVENS
WHO DIED 1st SEPTEMBER 1848
AGED 38 YEARS
"She Sleeps in Peace"
65. Small Headstone, Section C
THIS HEADSTONE TO MARY WARD, DIED 1766, HAS BEEN VIVIDLY DECORATED
BY MOTHER NATURE! ALTHOUGH SMALL, IT IS WELL PLACED TO GRAB THE
ATTENTION OF THE CONGREGATION COMING TO AND FROM THE CHURCH ENTRANCE
IN
MEMORY OF MARY
THE WIFE OF
WILLIAM WARD
OF YS PARISH WHO DIED
MARCH YE 14th ? 1766
AGED 56 YEARS
66. Headstone, Section A
THE WAUGH HEADSTONE, 1777 & 1781
LIKE MANY MONUMENTS IN THIS PART OF THE CHURCHYARD,
IT IS DIFFICULT TO PHOTOGRAPH BECAUSE OF
THE DENSE SHADE OF THE EVERGREEN YEWS
IN MEMORY OF
WILLIAM WAUGH OF THIS PARISH
WHO DIED THE 17th? OF JULY 1777
AGED 56 YEARS
LIKEWISE THE BODY OF JEMIMA WIFE OF THE
ABOVE SAID WILLIAM WAUGH WHO DEPARTED
THIS LIFE THE 28th DAY OF SEPTEMBER 1781
AGED 57 YEARS
LEFT ISSUE 2 SONS AND 3 DAUGHTERS
WILLIAM, THOMAS, ANN, ELIZABETH
AND MARY
Jemima Waugh, of Halling, Widow. P.C.C. Will dated 5th April 1781.
Richard Carpenter Smith, Esq.. of Southwark, is Executor and Trustee. To him, all goods, chattles, stock in trade, money in Public Funds, Upon Trust.
To son William £30, exclusive of £20 he owes her, he is released from all interest due.
To son Thomas, (now at sea), £50. If he dies in her lifetime, then the £50 to all her children, living at the time of her death, in equal shares.
To daughter Elizabeth Hilder, wife of William Hilder of Wrotham, Yeoman, £40, to their son and daughter, £10 each.
Investment of £100, 3% Consolidated Bank Annuities for use of her grandchildren, John and Jemima Lane, children of her daughter Ann, late wife of John Lane of Halling. Interest from this for their maintenance and education during their minority. When they are both 21, then the £100 and accrued interest to them in equal shares. If they both die before 21, then funds to her children then living in equal shares.
Residue to Executor and Trustee, In Trust, to sell and invest in Public Funds, for maintenance and education of daughter, Mary, until she is 21, or day of marriage (with consent of executor), then residue transferred to her. If Mary dies with no lawful issue, then money to sons John and William, and daughter Elizabeth Hilder, and two grandchildren, John and Jemima Lane.
To Richard Carpenter Smith 10 guineas "as a small gratuity for his trouble".
Signs with a Mark
Witnesses: Richard Carpenter Smith, Junr., William Viner and Samuel Shaw, Attorney, Southwark
Proved 15th October 1781
66. Small Headstone, Next to Latter
IN MEMORY OF
MA[RY] [ ]EW ? THE DAUGHTER
OF WILL. AND JEMIMA
WAUGH OF THIS PARISH DIED
FEB. [ ]
END
Index of Surnames from Gravestones only
Names
ADAMS 13
ALLEN 14
AMOS 176
BAKER 1
BOWLES 17
BRETT 18
BRIGDEN 19
BUNTAIN 20
BURCHFIELD 21
CASTLE 22, 23, 24
CLEMONDS 25-29
COCKLE 30
COLARD 2
COMPORT 3, 4
CRUSE 31
DALYSON 7
DENE 7
DIBLEY 5, 6
DIBLY 32
EDMEADS 33
FRYLAND 12
GARDINER 34, 35
GOLDING 36
HATCH 37
HEATH 38, 39
HILLS 40
KEMSLEY 41
LAMBARDE 7
LAMBERT 42
LAMPARDE 7
LETCHFORD 44
MILLS 43, 44, 45, 46
MOROSOFF 23
MORRIS 47
NALSON 48
NORMAN 49, 50
OLIFF 51
PEARCE 52
PETERS 53
PI??? 54
PRING 55, 56
PYE 57
RAVEN 58
ROBERTS 59
ROSEBRIDGE 60, 61
RUSSELL 14
SHEPHERD 15
SIMMONS 62
SMALL 8
SMITH 15
STEVENS 63, 64
TAYLOR 9
TOWERS 10, 11
WARD 65
WAUGH 66
WOOD 12