Precis of the wills of Takeley residents.
E to L
This document includes précis of the wills of Takeley people.
Wills marked E.R.O. are included by kind permission of Essex Records Office.
Wills marked New College are included by kind permission of the Warden and Fellows
on New College, Oxford
Wills marked P.C.C are from the Prerogative Court of Canterbury and are included by
kind permission National Archives
Notes by the compiler.
BR references are on microfiche from Essex Records Office.
BW references are on microfilm, or available in the original from Essex Records
Office.
The E.R.O. is continually updating the access to wills, so some wills with a reference
of D/ABR may now have a D/ABW reference.
“ ” indicates a direct quotation.
[ ] indicates a note by the compiler
….indicates that words have been left out, either because they are unreadable, or
because there is a gap or hole in the original document.
Some punctuation has been added to make the text easier to read.
? indicates that the compiler is uncertain of the reading.
A nuncupative will is one that was made by word of mouth only, and before credible
witnesses who later made sworn statements before the Probate Court.
The words God, Saviour, Redeemer etc. in the preamble have been given capital
letters throughout, even where they are not given in the original. As these are
standard in most early wills they are noted only when it is felt to be particularly
significant.
1/- and other money values have been given as 1s. etc.
Probate dates are given where they occur in the original. Not all wills have a probate
date.
All lands and people are in Takeley unless otherwise specified.
All personal names and place names have been given capital letters, even where they
are not given in the original.
The spelling has not been modernised. Proper names are as in the original.
Abbreviations have been extended.
“ by estimation” and “more or less” have been omitted as they are standard usage.
I am grateful to Pat Salmon for the additional material from the Takeley parish
registers, Marilyn Sayers for helping to check the references and to Phyllis Altham for
proof reading the work.
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Eave, Harry, husbandman, 08/03/1609, E.R.O. D/ABW 13/207.
Wife, Elizabeth Eave:= all his goods and moveables not previously bequeathed.
Daughter, Elizabeth Eave:= £5 to be paid to her by her grandfather William Eave at
the age of twenty one years or on the day of her marriage. Until she is twelve years
old the money is to be paid to William Eave “for her uses”.
Daughter, Anne Eave:= £5 to be given as above.
Daughter, Ellen Eave:= £5 to be given as above.
Possible unborn child “wherewith my wife goeth”:= £5 to be given as above.
If any child dies before reaching the age of twenty one years then their portion to be
divided amongst the living children. If all the children are dead then it goes to his wife
Elizabeth Eave.
Executrix:= wife Elizabeth Eave.
Witnesses:= Antony Handsaker, William Williams, John Laver, Edward Dod.
[the writing suggests that Dod wrote the will]
Probate 1614.
Page 2
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Elliet, Robert, husbandman, 13/01/1626, E.R.O. D/ABW 48/126.
Sick in body.
Wife, Jone Elliet:= his tenement and dwelling house with the orchard, outhouses and
one little pightle of land called Mellfield, lately bought of Edward Eve of Elsenham, so
long as she stays unmarried.
Also all the moveable goods in his house for her life, but not to sell or waste.
Son, George Elliet,:= the above after the death of Jone Elliet.
Son, Simon Elliet:= the above if George Elliet dies without heirs, on condition that he
pays £5 to Agnes, wife of George Elliet after the death of George Elliet.
He gets Mellfield for one year after the death of Jone Elliet.
Daughter in law, Agnes Elliet:= if Simon Ellet does not fulfil the above conditions then
Agnes inherits the whole.
Daughter, Anne Elliet:= £6 to be paid to her by his sons George and Simon Elliet. Also
£3 in one year after the death of Jone Elliet.
Anne is to have the household goods after the death of Jone Elliet Also the ? next to
the house of Michaell Brewer, with liberty of ingress and egress to the hall and fire if
she stays unmarried. Otherwise this condition is void. He gives “more” to daughter
Anne to Dower, but wife Jone is to farm them for one year paying 14s. and 4d. and
making good the cattle at the end of the year.
Sons, George and Simon Elliet:= all the residue of his goods and chattles to be
divided equally after paying his funeral expenses.
Executors:= sons, George and Simon Elliet.
Overseers:= Edwin Casse, William Parcely, allowing them 12d. each.
Witnesses:= Henry Langley, Edwin Casse, William Parsley.
Robert Elliet died at Stortford on 20/02/1626.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 3
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
English, John, 1703 E.R.O. E.R.O. D/ABW 82/43.
The poor of Takeley:= £10 to be paid by his executor within six months after his death,
and to be distributed by the minister and churchwardens.
The poor of Great Birch:= £6 to be distributed as above.
The poor of Much Canfield:= 40s.
The poor of Little Canfield:= 40s.
His poor neighbours at Hatfield that live near Takeley Vicarage:= 30s.
John Kendall, esq. of Bassingbourne Hall:= £10. He is also to get the £700 which
Lady Anne Franklen owes to English and which she has solemnly sworn to pay.
William, second brother to the above John Kendall:= the parcel of land called the Slipe
bounded by Parsonage Lane on the East, in Takeley.
All his books except his writings. If William should die before reaching the age of
twenty one years then the bequest goes to his elder brother John Kendall.
William is also to get the £20 owed to English by a legacy from Mistress Anne
Beckford which he hopes her Executors will pay honestly without trouble.
Also the £90 English is owed when Mr. Barrington’s book debts are paid off.
Mr. George Ray of Thremhall Priory:= £100.
Mr. George Shelin, Vicar of Matching:= £50.
Mr.William Leader of Broxted:= £10.
Mr. Samuel Smith, Vicar of Henham:= £10.
Thomas his godson, son of George Ray:= ………
Anna Maria, his god daughter, daughter to Dr.Huntington:=……
Samuel, his godson, son of Samuel Smith:=……
William, his god son, son of William Marriott:=…….
John his godson, son of Mr.Leader of Little Easton:=……
William his godson, son of Mr.Rogars of London, bookseller:=…………
[the probable figure for the above marked with….is £10].
Dr. Dane of Copford:= £30.
Jeane, wife of Dr. Dane:= £10
Mr. David Kinnear:= £8.
Godson, son of David Kinnear:= 40s.
Mr.John Reynolds of Stansted:= £10.
Charles Robson:= £3.
Thomas Cannon:= £30.
Elizabeth, wife of Thomas Cannon:= 40s.
Thomas Wittan and his wife:= £8.
John Constable:= £5 if he is still his servant at the time of testator’s death. All his
wearing apparel apart from his priestly habits.
Francis , his church clerk and his wife := £3.
All the legacies are to be paid within one and a half years after the death of the
testator.
Executor:= Mr. Francis Peversane, Clerk, of Great Canfield.
Witnesses:= William Clarke, Edward Ennyver, John Constable.
Probate:= 24/05/1716.
[John English, M.A. was Vicar of Takeley from 1663 to 1716. His wife Mary died in
1695]
Page 4
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Eve, Adam, yeoman, 20/01/1726, E.R.O. D/ABW 87/1/148.
Wife, Mary Eve:= messuage or tenement with orchard belonging to it, in the
occupation of Henry Burles for her life. All his goods, chattels and personal estate
after paying his debts and legacies.
Daughter, Mary Eve:= the above messuage after the death of her mother. Also the
customary messuage or tenement with house, outhouses, lands and grounds in Much
Canfield, in the occupation of widow Clarke, with the land in his own occupation
Also his customary messuage or tenement with outhouses and lands containing by
estimation two acres now or late in the occupation of John Burles
Executrix:= wife, Mary Eve.
Witnesses:= John Tucker makes a mark, Phillip Judd ,makes a mark, Henry Staines
makes a mark.
Probate:= 02/20/1728.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 5
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Eve, Jane, widow, 29/11/1805, National Archives Prob. 11/1436.
Sister, Ann wife of William Cockett of Much Hadham, farmer:= all the two freehold
messuages, cottages or tenements.with buildings, lands, grounds and appurtenances
now in her own occupation and that of William Marshall.
Nephews and nieces, the children of her late brother Robert Beard:= Robert Beard,
Benjamin Beard, John Beard, Mary Halden, widow, Jane, wife of Nathaniel Simmons.
They are to share the £200 which Robert Garret owes her in mortgage and which is to
be called in and shared amongst them.
She expressly directs that Jane Simmons’ share is to be paid to her only and be
exempt from the control of her husband who is not to meddle therewith.
Niece, Ann wife of William Gorsuet Hines of Much Hadham, gentleman:= one half of
all the rest of her monies, securities, public fund money, goods, chattels, effects and
personal estate.
Niece, Susannah wife of William Frances of Bishop’s Stortford, draper:= the other half
of the above.
Both nieces are the children of her sister Ann Cockett.
Executor:= William Cockett.
Mark of Jane Eve.
Witnesses:= Thomas Flack, James Willey, Joseph Cockett.
Probate:= 03/01/1806.
Page 6
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Eve, John, farmer, 01/08/1791, E.R.O. D/ABW 111/1/68.
The poor of Takeley:= 20s. to be distributed in bread at the discretion of the
churchwardens and overseers.
Wife, Jane Eve:= residue of all monies, notes, orders, cattle, stock in trade, goods,
chattels, and personal effects.
Brother, Richard Eve:= £4 to be paid within six months after the death of the testator.
William Marshall:= £4 to be paid as above.
Elizabeth, wife of William Patmore of Bishop’s Stortford:= £3.
Ann, wife of Matthew Hammond of Little Laver, farmer:= £3.
Mary, wife of Adam Waterman, victualler, of Hatfield Broad Oak:= £3.
David Bingham, junior, of Woodrow in Hatfield:=£3.
Executrix:= wife, Mary Eve.
Witnesses:= Richard Eve, John Barker, William Lens.
Probate:= 1791.
[ John Eve and Jane Beard were married at Takeley, 20/04/1758.
John Eve was buried at Takeley 01/12/1790.
Jane Eve died in 1805.
Baptised:=
Richard, son of Richard Eve:= 04/08/1709.
May, daughter of Aaron Eve:= 22/07/1714.
Elizabeth, daughter of John Ives:= 25/05/1733.
Married:=
John Barnard to Mary Eve:= 31/12/1728.
James Bingham to Anne Eve := 24/12/1732] .
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 7
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Eve, Joseph, yeoman, 11/04/1750, E.R.O. D/ABW 96/3/37
Late of Takeley, but now of Tilty
Friend, Francis Skinner of Great Easton, gentleman:= all his messuage or tenement
and farm with barns, stables, outhouses, yards, gardens, orchards, lands, grounds
and tenements, both freehold and copyhold now or late in his own occupation, and
that of Mr.Thomas Wyatt, to be held in trust.
Skinner is to sell the above for the best available price to pay debts etc. and to settle
the mortgage.
Skinner with testator’s friend Mascall Bayford of Thaxted receive £80 in trust to be put
out to interest and this paid to his widow Mary.
After the death of Mary Eve it is to be paid to William Eve, the son of the testator for
his education and maintenance, until he is twenty one years old.
Wife, Mary Eve:= all monies, creditors, household stuff, goods, chattels, and personal
estate, after paying debts and funeral and probate charges.
Executors:= Francis Skinner, Mascall Bayford.
Witnesses:= William Jagon, Thomas Frankham, James Smith.
Probate:= 07/05/1750.
Page 8
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Ewen, Agnes, 11/01/1571 E.R.O. M.R. 3/1/31.
Buried in the churchyard of Chawreth or Broxted.
The poor man’s box:= 12d.
Son, Peter Ewen:= all her goods not otherwise bequeathed. Two crofts of land called
Brownings in Takeley containing eight acres..
Son, Henry Ewen:= her messuage in Takeley with twenty six acres of land on
condition he pays his brother Peter 20s.
Son, John Ewen:= one seam of barley on condition that he allows his brother Peter to
quietly take away all such goods in the house where Agnes Ewen now lives.
John Bearman:= two sheep.
Alice Bearman:= two sheep.
Agnes Bearman:= one ewe sheep.
Margaret Speller:= one pair of sheets.
Executor:= son, Peter Ewen.
Witnesses:= John Collyn, John White, William Rose, Robert Phillips, James Clarke.
Probate:= 11/02/1571.
[see also the will of Hugh Bearman dated 1559]
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 9
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Ewen, Henry, yeoman, 10/01/1613, E.R.O. D/ABW 13/241.`
The poor people of Takeley:= 20s.
Wife, Elizabeth Ewen:= £6 8s. 4d. for her life issuing from his freehold land and
tenements and to be paid quarterly at the feast of the nativity of our Lord God,
Thunnuncacon of the Blessed Virgin Marie, the Nativity of St John Baptist and Saint
Michael Tharchangell in 33s. 3s. by even portions.
Also the second best bedstead, second feather bed, and all the furniture belonging to
it such as coverlet, blankets, sheets, bolster, pillow and mattress.
However if his wife challenges the acceptance of the above money as being in full
satisfaction of her jointure etc. then the above bequest becomes void.
Son, Henry Ewen:= all lands, tenements, and hereditaments both free and copyhold
.In default of heirs to son Henry, then to be divided equally between his four
daughters, Margarett, Agnes, Alice and Francis.
All the rest of his goods, chattels, money, debts after paying his debts and funeral
charges..
Daughter, Francis Ewen:= £6 to be paid at eighteen years or the day of her marriage.
If she died before then her three sisters inherit equally.
Grandson, George Holgate, son of daughter Agnes:= £3 to be paid at the age of
eighteen years.
Every child which she had with John Clarke 20s.to be paid at the age of twenty one
years.
Four children of daughter Margarett:= 20s. to be paid at the age of twenty one years.
Grandson, William Chapman, son of daughter Alice:= £14 to be paid at twenty one
years, or the day of his marriage.
Executor:= loving friend William Collin of Broxted Hall and he is to have £6 for his
pains.
Overseer:= good and loving friend Jeffrie Poole his son in law and he is to have 20s.
for his pains.
Witnesses:= John Collin, M. Harbeck.
Probate:= 23/09/1614.
Page 10
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Ewen, Peter, husbandman, 17//04/1612, E.R.O. D/ABW 13/227.
Buried in Takeley church yard.
Wife, Fraunces:= the house where he now lives, with all lands, meadow, pasture,
yards, buildings for her life. Residue of all goods, chattels, moveables and
unmoveable, with debts paid.
Friend, Lawrence Sanfuin?, gentleman, and nephew, Jeffrie Poole:= they are to sell
his copyhold lands held of the Manor of Colchester Hall, and the money is to be given
to his three daughters.
Daughter, Aliyce who is betrothed to John Smythe of Grenestrete in Elsenham:= £20.
Smyth is to enfeoff Alyce with his house and all his lands for her life.
If Smyth refuses to enfeoff Alyce, then the gift is void and the money and the money
from the sale of lands is to equally divided by Mr. Samflin and Geoffire Poole amongst
the three daughters.
Margaret Ewen:= half the above money.
Fraunces Ewen:= money as above.
Executrix:= wife, Fraunces Ewen.
Overseers:= well beloved friends, Lawrence Samflin, Jefferey Poole, John Marden the
elder, Thomas Saunder.
Signed by Peter Ewen.
Probate:= 24/04/1612.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 11
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Flask, John, butcher, 31/07/1805, National Archives Prob. 11/1431.
All debts and funeral expenses to be paid.
Wife, Elizabeth Flask, with sons John and Thomas Flask and daughter Alice Flask,
are to carry on his business as a butcher, his wife paying the children a proper
compensation for their time.
His wife or his executor is to sell his freehold and copyhold estate, live and dead
stock, household furniture, china, plate and other effects by public auction. The money
from this sale together with all book debts to him, securities, etc. to be shared equally
amongst his children.
They are also to set aside such sum or sums as shall be suitable for his wife, to be
paid every half year.
Executor:= John Butterside of Orsitt Hall.
Witnesses:= Joseph Raven, John Potter, John Bentley.
Probate:= 27/09/1805.
[John Flask operated his business from the house now called “The Old Bakery” in
Takeley Street].
Page 12
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Flude, Johanne, widow, 06/08/1634, E.R.O. D/ABW 52/177.
Buried in Takeley churchyard.
Grandchild, Thomas Wryght:= £5.
Johanne Wryhte, the daughter of her son:= £5 and all the implements of household.
Grandchild, Richard Wryght:= £5.
Grandchild, John Wryght:= £5.
Grandchild, Mary Wryght, daughter of son Thomas Wryght:= £5.
Grandchild, Margeret Wryght:= 2s.
Godson, Mychyll Burlynge:= 2s.
Sister, Myldrede Burlynge:= 12d.
Daughter in law, Jhone Wryght:= all the rest of her goods and chattels not already
bequeathed.
Executrix:= daughter in law, Jhone Wryght.
The mark of Johane Flude.
Overseers:= Sammuelle Gaynfforde and Edwyn Lukyn.
Witnesses:= Edwin Lukin, Robert Browne, Myhyll Woode.
Probate:= 22/03/1639
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 13
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Freshwater, William, labourer, 05/08/1568, E.R.O. D/ABW 14/162.
Wife, Joan Freshwater:= messuage called Arnoldes for her life, and all the rest of his
goods.
Son, John Freshwater:= messuage called Arnoldes after the death of his mother,
paying 13s. 4d. to son Thomas Freshwater at the age of twenty.
Executrix:= wife, Joan Freshwater.
Witnesses:= Robert Lukyn, Bartrobe Lukyn.
Probate:= 20/09/1569.
[A Robert Lukin was Vicar of Takeley, 1561-1598]
Page 14
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Gardiner, William, yeoman, 30/12/1676, E.R.O. D/ABR 5/10.
Wife, Sarah Gardiner:= his tenement and one acre of land with the appurtenances in
Elsenham which he late purchased from Symon Wright and Thomas Richardson, for
her life.
All his goods, chattels and personal estate.
Youngest daughter, Sarah Gardiner:= one half of the above tenement.
Two children of his eldest daughter Mary:= the other half of the tenement, but that the
children shall permit their mother to profit from the said tenement during her life.
Executrix:=loving wife, Sarah Gardiner.
Witnesses:= Edward Silvester, John Stanes.
Probate:= ?/01/1677.
[A William Gardiner held Great and Little Cousins This could be Tithe No 33 called
Dooley Cousins]
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 15
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Garrett, Robert, farmer, 13/08/1802, E.R.O. D/ABW 117/3/14.
Wife, Rosanna Garrett:= the bed, bedding, furniture and such fittings as are usual in
the bedchamber in which they sleep.
“ I do hereby declare that the provision hereby made by my said wife shall be by her
accepted or Lieu Bar and satisfaction of all her Dower or Thirds in my Real Estate.”
Sons, Robert and Mumford Garrett:= messuage or tenements, farm, barns. stables,
outhouses, yards, orchards, lands, grounds and tenements, being part freehold and
part copyhold, and late in his own occupation. To be held as Tenants in common and
not as Joint tenants.
They are to pay £10 to testator’s wife Rosanna and £30 to each of their five brothers
and sisters within one year after the death of the testator. In default of such payment
they have the right to enter the premises to gain their bequest.
All monies, securities for money, household goods, cattle, corn, farming stock, and
other goods, chattels, and personal estate not otherwise disposed of, after paying his
debts, funeral and probate charges.
Children, Mary the wife of John Plaistow, Thomas Garret, Sarah the wife of --Farrant, William Garrett and Joseph Garrett:= £30 each.
Executors:= sons, Robert and Mumford Garrett.
Witnesses:= G. Wade, Henry Hughes.
Probate:= 15/03/1808.
[Robert the son of Robert Garret was baptised at Takeley on 16/10/1733.
He married 1) Mary Coote on 13/11/1763. She died, and was buried at Takeley on
26/01/1782.
Their children were:= Robert, baptised 14/09/1766,
Mary 22/11/1768,
Mumford, 3/02/1770,
Thomas 01/04/1771,
Sarah 10/03/1781.
Married 2) Rosanna Pool on 12/05/1785
Their children were:=
William, baptised 31/09/1785,
Joseph 03/11/1787.
Robert Garret was buried 07/03/1808. He was probably born and died at Jacks Green
Farm.
Rosanna Garret was buried 28/03/1830.
The Census for 1841 gives for Jacks Green farm:=Robert (74), Mary (60), Susan (30),
William (15).
1861:= Robert (40), Julie (38).
Maggots Farm 1841:= Robert(45), Susanna (40), Emma (20), George (15) Sarah (10),
Thomas (7) Joseph,(4), Elizabeth(1).
1861:= Robert (67), Susan (45), Thomas (27), Joseph (23).
There were Garretts in Takeley until the 1960s]
Page 16
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Garrett, Robert, yeoman, 12/02/1849, E.R.O. D/ABW 139/2/29.
Wife, Mary Garrett := all his real estate and personal property.
Son, Robert Garrett := the farm called “Maggotts” containing 17 acres or thereabouts,
subject to the payment of £75.
Executrix := wife, Mary Garrett.
Witnesses := Reverend Vicesimus Knox Child, Vicar of Takeley, William Adams
Wright.
Probate := 26/04/1849.
[Robert Garret was buried at Takeley Church on 125/04/1849, aged 82.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 17
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Gainefford, Franncis, gent, 10/01/1608, E.R.O. D/ABW 17/82.
The poor of Takeley := 20s. to be paid by his Executor within one month after the
death of the testator.
Wife, Johanne Gainesfford := £25 a year from his lease of the Parsonage to be given
in equal portions at the four terms of the year, that is to say, The Annunciation of our
Lady, Midsummer, Michaelmass, and the Feast of the Nativity of our Lord, called
“Crystmas”.
She has the use of the chamber where she usually lies with all the furniture in it for the
term of his lease of the Parsonage is she lives so long.
Son, Thomas Gaynfford := all his lands, goods, chattels, moveables and unmoveable
so long as he discharges the debts and legacies..
Executor := son, Thomas Gaynfford.
Overseer := son, Samuel Gaynfford.
Signed by Gainesfford in a very uncertain hand.
The marks of Thomas Wybard, Edward Petere.
Probate = 30/01/1608
Page 18
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Gaynfforde, Thomas, gentleman, 30/01/1609, E.R.O. D/ABW 17/93.
Buried in the chancel of the parish church “ neare unto the place where my Father ys
Intered”.
The poor people of Takeley 20s. to be distributed at the discretion of his Executors.
Nephew, Thomas Gaynsfford, son of brother Sammuell Gaynfford:= half of all the
houses and tenements that he has in “Holdburne” [Holborn] in the parish of St.
Andrews London.
Sammuell Gaynfford, son of brother Sammuell Gaynfford:= the other half of the
above.
Elizabeth, Jane, Rychard, and Thomas, children of his sister Joane Fonghame?:= £5
each to be paid within two years after the death of the testator.
Frauncis and Crystover the two children of his sister Susan Bushell:= £10 and £5 to
be paid within two years after the death of the testator.
Niece, Jane Pecocke, daughter of his sister Elizabeth Pecocke:= £10 to be paid as
above.
Dear and loving mother, Jone Gayfforde:= 10s.
Sister, Marye Foulham:= 40s. to be paid within twelve months after the death of the
testator.
Brother, Fraunceis Gaynfforde:= one half of all his lands, leases, goods, plate ,
implements, and household not already bequeathed on condition he and his brother
pay all debts and funeral charges.
Brother, Sammuell Gaynfford:= the other half as above.
Executors:= brothers, Frauncis and Samuell Gaynfford hoping they will have a care in
conscience to perform the trust committed to them.
Overseers:= uncle, John Wybard and Edwyn Lukyn and they have 10s. for their pains.
Witnesses:= Edwyn Lukin, Gregorie ?nngole [ ?Nightingale, or could be Ingolde]
Probate:= no given. .
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 19
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Gainsford, Marie, widow, 21/02/1655, National Archives Prob. 11/249.
She is late of London, but now of Takeley.
Sick in body.
Son, Nicholas Gaynsford:= 20s. to be paid within one year after the death of the
testator.
Sister, Ann Loftus:= 10s. to be paid within one year as above.
Sister, Elizabeth Baysey:= her best gown and petticoat.
Sister, Prudence Eden:= all the rest of her wearing apparel linen and ?oolsts?[ could
this be jewels?]
Son, William Gaynsford:= all the rest of her moveable goods, utensils and leases,
after paying her debts and funeral expenses.
If both William and Nicholas are dead before the will is proved, then her brother,
Robert Lukin is to inherit.
Executor:= brother, Robert Lukin.
Witnesses:= Robert Barnard, Prudence Eden makes a mark, Robert Lukin.
Probate:= 10/05/1655.
The Gaynsfford family held the Takeley Parsonage and almost certainly lived in the
Parsonage].
Page 20
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Gaynsforde, Samuel, gentleman, 07/12/1636, E.R.O. D/ABW 53/257.
The poor of Takeley:= 20s.
Wife, Ellen Gaynsforde:= his goods, chattels, leases, money and debts.
Thomas Gaynsforde:= 10s.
Son, John Gaynsforde:= £100.
Daughter, Dorothy Gaynsforde:= £100 at twenty one years or at her marriage.
Daughter, Elizabeth Gaynsforde:= as above.
Daughter, Cicilie Gaynsforde:= as above.
Loving mother in law Cicilie Kempster:- 30s. to buy her a ring.
Sister, Elizabeth Clifton:= 30s. for a ring.
Grandchild, Thomas Gaynsforde:= £5 at the age of twenty one years.
Executrix:= wife, Ellen Gaynsforde.
Overseers:= kinsman, John Caffland, citizen and tallow chandler, and friend John
Cliffe citizen and inn holder of London. They get 20s. each .
Probate:= 10/03/1637.
Leventhorpe Frank, knight, surrendered on 3/11/16 to the Lord of the Manor of
Waltham Hall, a customary meadow called the Slipe. Four acres, to the use of
Gaynsforde and his heirs on the payment of £104 on May sixteenth next at his Manor
house in Takeley. If the money is not paid then Gaynsforde or his heirs pay
Leventhorpe Frank the said sum at his Mansion House called Ries in Hatfield Broad
Oak. If Gaynsforde dies before the sixteenth of May as above, then his son Thomas
Gaynsforde is to benefit from the land.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 21
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Gibbons, John, butcher, 22/10/1681, E.R.O. D/ABW 70/142.
Wife, Elizabeth Gibbons:= messuage or tenement called Tanners, outhouses,
orchards, and backside, with a croft of two acres to hold until testators son Richard
Gibbons reaches the age of twenty one years.
All the residue of his goods and household stuff, ready money, and debts not
bequeathed, she paying his debts and funeral charges.
Son, Richard Gibbons:= the above at his age of twenty one years, paying his sister
Elizabeth Gibbons £10 in two instalments of £5 starting one year after he comes into
his inheritance.
Daughter, Elizabeth Gibbons:= £10 to be paid as above. If Richard dies before the
age of twenty one then whoever inherits pays her £20.
Also the croft or close called Butte Croft, two acres, when she is twenty one years old.
Executrix:= wife, Elizabeth Gibbons.
Witnesses:= James Blatch, Henry Prestland, Edward Vinyer.
Probate:= 08/12/1681.
[ Tanners was at number 245 in the Tithe map of 1838]
Page 22
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Gibbons, John, butcher, 1739, D/ABW 93/2/6
Wife, Mary Gibbons:= £5 worth of goods in his dwelling.
Daughter, Elizabeth wife of John Stiles:= messuage at Mashbrook Street, Hatfield
Regis, or Hatfield Broad Oak.
Also the toft or close of land adjoining of nine poles in the occupation of John Fardell.
All are for her life.
Grandchildren, Samuel and Thomas Stiles, children of Elizabeth Stiles:= the above
after the death of their mother.
Daughter, Susannah wife of Francis Clarke, yeoman:= copyhold land in Morrells
Green in the occupation of Francis Sapesford.
Also the two fields or closes of arable & pasture in the occupatoipn of the testator.
Susannah, daughter of Francis Sapesford:= £15.
Daughter, Mary, wife of Philip Camp:= the croft called Butts Croft of two acres in the
occupation of Samuel Rens.
Also the leasehold cottage with orchard, land etc. in the occupation of Widow Bright.
Son ___ Gibbons of South Ockendon:= croft of six acres in Murrels Green in the
occupation of Samuel Rens.
Executor:= Henry Gibbons.
Witnesses:= Joseph Sach, Daniel Ramsey, Thomas Westwod.
Probate:= 20/02/1739.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 23
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Gibbons, Mary, widow, 26/09/1778, E.R.O. D/ABW 107/2/53
Grandson, Henry Hampton:= all her freehold messuage or tenement now occupied as
three tenements with the field or hoppitt adjoining, lately purchased from Elizabeth
Mott.
If he dies without issue then it goes to her granddaughters. There is a charge on the
property given below. All the rest and residue of her estate.
Granddaughter, Mary Hampton:= if Henry dies without issue she gets the best end of
the house, the garden hoppitt, barn, stable, and all outhouses except those mentioned
later .
The £20 charge on the property from Henry.
An equal share in the wearing apparel of her late mother. Also the green bed with the
furniture belonging to it, the six best chairs, best dressing glass and dressing table, the
silver tea tongs, all the best pewter plates, the pewter dish with the markes?, the
cloths, the “Gobirons” fender, the best copper “toadrettes”, two best brass
candlesticks, her chest of drawers and everything in it, her jappanned corner cupboard
and all that is in it, her silver ladle, quilting frame, banion and “saraeirs” best ?… box
and what is in it, the coast tea table, the tea chest and the best tea “aboast”?
Granddaughter, Lucy Hampton:= the other two tenements, the little woodhouse
adjoining the stable. The £20 charge on the property from Henry.
An equal share in the wearing apparel of her late mother, the largest rosewood box,
without the things that will be in it at the time of testator’s death, her piece of “Niell”
work, two other brass candlesticks, one other table and glass, her pewter dish marked
with the letters “MP”, the six pewter plates marked with the letter ”G”, her tea table,
and tea board, the other corner cupboard, and other tea pots.
Grandson, Charles Hampton:= £5 charge on the property left to Henry.
Grandson, Jonas Hampton:= £5 on the property left to Henry.
Henry is to pay Charles and Jonas within one year after the death of the testator.
He is to pay Mary and Lucy when they reach twenty one years.
Joseph Ramsey, cordwainer:=two guineas out of the residue of her personal estate.
Executors:= grandson, Henry Hampton, Joseph Ramsey.
Witnesses:= Daniel Ramsey, James Hampstead, John Usher.
[the granddaughter Mary Hampton was to marry Joseph Ramsey and some of the
bequests can be read in her will. The Ramseys lived at Sparrows Hall in Takeley
Street which is now the Clock House. Their only son Daniel predeceased his mother.
The Daniel of the will is Joseph’s father].
Page 24
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Gooneld, Benjamin, Clerk, 14/11/1626, National Archives, Prob.11/156.
Buried in the body of Takeley church “as neere unto the grave where my once beloved
wife Susanna Gooneld is buried as conveniently may bee if it please God I doe dye in
the same towne”.
He disposes of his worldly goods “in some certaine order for the good quiet of my
three Children who are all indifferently beloved of mee….. graunt they maie live in
concord, love and unity” [ I presume “indifferently” means he loves them all equally.
The wording could suggest a lack of concord among the children]
“And to fulfil theire mothers desire soe neere as I can “ he leaves to his three children
Benjamin, James and Susanna Gooneld:= his house at Smithfield Barrs in London
occupied by Christofer Winter, all other lands and tenements, and his leases in
Turnbull Street to be sold and the profits divided equally between them.
All his household stuff and goods, after paying his debts and legacies.
Daughter of sister Sara Webster, Mary Webster:= £5 to be paid to her by testator’s
three children at twenty one years or within six months after her marriage, if she lives
that long.
Sister, Katherine Seagar:= 40s. to be paid within half a year after the death of the
testator.
Executors:= children, Benjamin, James and Susanna Gooneld “ to perform the same
as my trust is in them”.
Overseers:= Mr. Samuel Gaynsford, John Morrell with 10s. to buy them rings if they so
wish.
Witnesses:= Henry Langley, John Morrell.
Probate:= 11/06/1629.
[ Benjamin Gooneld was Vicar of Takeley 1598-1629. John Morrell was the son of
Thomas Morrell of The White Hart, now Yew Tree House. The name Langley occurs
in the list of the recusants for Takeley]
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 25
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Green, John, carpenter, 16/10/1784, E.R.O. D/ABW 109/3/5.
Wife, Susanna Green:= everything of which he is possessed. If when she dies there is
anything that has not been sold or disposed of to maintain her, it is left to:=
George, son of Samuel Jackson of Bishop’s Stortford, labourer.
Executrix:= wife, Susanna Green.
Mark of John Green.
Witnesses:= Daniel Bass, Charles Gorsuch, John White.
Probate:= 12/01/1786.
Greene, John, husbandman, 08/09/1615, E.R.O. D/ABW 17/221.
Wife, Bridget Greene:= all the movable goods within and without his house “that I had
by she at the day of my maryage within hir is specific in an Invitory”. They are to be
delivered to her by the testator’s son John Green after testator’s death.
She is to be paid the £8 due to her by Thomas and Arter Greene within three months
after the death of the testator.
Son, John Greene:= 2s. to be paid within three months after the death of the testator.
Daughter, Mary Greene:= 2s. as above.
Daughter, Ann Greene:= 2s. as above.
Daughter, Francis Greene:= 12d. as above.
Children of his daughter Mary, wife of Thomas Pamphelon, John, Elizabeth and Mary
Pamphelon:= 2s. each at the age of eighteen years.
Daughter, An:= 2s. to be paid to her at the age of eighteen years.[It is uncertain if
there are two Mary and An his daughters]
Son, Thomas Greene:= half his movable goods, corn, chattels, money not
bequeathed. The joined work of one bed.
Son, Arter Greene:= half his property as above. The feather bed, bolster and blanket.
If the sons cannot agree to the share then an honest man is to be chosen to make the
division.
Both brothers are to pay to testator’s wife Bridget Greene £6 10s, in discharge of a
bond which testator and son John Greene stand jointly bound to pay her.
Executors:= sons Thomas and Arter Greene.
Overseer:= John Wryght.
The mark of John Greene.
Witnesses:= Elias Manridge, John Weyget.
Probate:= 16/04/1618.
Page 26
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Greene, John, carpenter, 03/11/1655, National Archives. Prob.11/288.
Grandchild, Josiah Greene:= £3 to be paid within three years after death of testator.
Son, Gray Greene:= £8 to be paid when he is twenty one years of age if he is then
living. Also one half headed bedstead, one flock bed with the furniture standing in the
Chamber over the parlour, one brass pot that was his mother’s.
Grandchild, Alice Greene:= 20s. to be paid within four years after his death.
Son, George Greene:= all the rest of his goods, chattels, money and personal estate,
after paying his debts, funeral expenses and legacies. George is to educate and bring
up Gray Greene, finding and providing him with sufficient and convenient meat, drink,
lodging, apparel and all other necessaries until he is fit to go into service or be put
forth as an apprentice.
Executor:= son, George Greene.
John Greene makes a mark.
Witnesses:= Joseph Callard, James Cathup.
Probate:= 12/02/1658.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 27
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Greene, George, carpenter, 27/05/1675. E.R.O. D/ABW. 67/205.
Wife, Frances Greene := to have dwelling in his house and use of all his copyhold
lands held from Warish Hall until his son John is of full age. After that she gets £3 a
year in two equal halves. She has the right of entry if not paid.
If she remarries before son John is twenty one years old, then she gets £3 to the end
of her life and no more.
Daughters, Mary and Elizabeth Greene := £20 each to be paid by their brother John
when they reach the age of twenty one years. If one dies then her share goes to the
survivor. They also have right of entry if not paid.
Executrix:= wife, Frances Greene.
Overseer:= the Parson of Takeley. [this was John English].
Witnesses := John Green makes a mark, Gregory Newman.
Probate := 20/07/1675.
Page 28
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Gyvar, John, citizen and Ironmonger of London, 12/03/1504, National Archives
Prob 11/17.
His body to be buried in the parish church of St. Leonard, Eastcheap, London, by the
grave of Thomas Gyvar, that is to say, near the Churchyard door by the North side
under the chamber called the “Morow masse prest chamber”. [Thomas was his
deceased son]
To the high altar of the same church:= for tithes and offerings forgotten or negligently
witheld
in discharge of his soul, 3s. 4d.
To the Fraternity of our Blessed Lady of the same church:= 3s.4d.
A good and honest priest:= to sing for his soul, and the soules of his mother and father
John and Alice Gyvar, and for all “custey” souls in the parish church of Takeley, where
he was born, for the space of one year next after his decease,
To his Executors:= at his charge in burying, a Requiem Mass with 10 torches and 4
tapers of wax to be held by poor ?men, and that his body be buried by note with doble
stole to the number of 12 priests.
At his “months mind”:= there is to be no great feast of meat and drink, but his
Executors are to distribute among the poor the cost of such fare.
His Executors are with goodly haste after his decease, to see that £5 sterling be dealt
with for his soul in the parish churches of St. Leonard, of Gracechurch All Halowes in
Lombard Street, of St. Clement beside Eastcheap and St. George in Pudding Lane all
in London. The money is to spent at the discretion of the churchwardens on poor
people being old, lame, blind, sick, and needful keeping their chamber and household.
Every chamber and household to have 12d.
The churchwardens of these parishes are to give his Executors a list of all such
people within one month after his decease.
The churchwardens of Takeley, Elsenham and Hatfield are to name to his Executors
one hundred poor people who are old, lame, blind sick and keeping to their chambers
and households so that £5 may be shared amongst them.
These poor are to come to the church of Takeley to collect the money, but if they are
unable to leave their chambers or households, then it is to be taken to them by the
churchwardens.
Each churchwarden is to have 6d. for his pains.
The high way of Takeley as far as Stortford leading from between Dunmow and
Stortford is to have £10 given for repair where it is most needed.
This repair work is to be under the oversight of 2 honest men from Dunmow, and 2
honest men from Stortford, within twelve months after his decease. Every one of these
men is to have 2d. for his labour, and another 2d. amongst them to be spent on drink
in alehouses when they meet together.
To the high altar, and the altar of St. Thomas, at Takeley:= £10 sterling for vestments
and altar clothes, and every altar is to have a complete set of vestments for a priest to
say Masses, and for the garnishing of the same altars with other clothes for the
honour and worship of God, and of St. Thomas, and the repairing of the homage of
our Blessed Lady of Pitie. [i.e. the Lady Chapel].
Sons, William, Henry and Gregory Gyvar:= “Clisterlinge”? to be delivered to them at
their lawful age.
If any of the sons die before they get their inheritance, then it is to be shared among
the survivors.
Each son is to get a featherbed, a bolster, 2 blankets, 2 pair of sheets and a coverlet.
All of which are good and honest.
Grandchildren, children of his deceased son, Thomas Gyvar:= 20s. each.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 29
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Brother, Richard Gyvar:= his debt to the testator are forgiven, and he gets 5 marks.
Also all his lands and tenements in Hatfield and Takeley, for the term of 3 years after
the death of the testator. It all then goes to testator’s son William Gyvar.
If William dies childless then Henry Gyvar inherits, followed on same terms by Gregory
Gyvar.
Should all three sons died without issue, then the lands and tenements are to be sold
by his Executors on the advice of the Vicar of Hatfield, and 4 honest men of the same
parish. Half the money is to be used to pray for his soul and the souls above
mentioned and for alms to the poor. The other half is to be used to mend the roads as
outlined above.
Also in the event of the death of all his three sons, the £300 bequeathed to each of
them is to go to go as £100 to the parish church of St. Leonard, Eastcheap, towards
the building of the ?Steill of the church, and an other £100 to be used by the
Executors , or their Executors, in relieving and helping the poor and in other good
deeds of charity most to the pleasure of God and for the health of the testator’s soul.
The final £100 is to pay for two priests to sing for the soul of the testator and the other
souls mentioned in the church of St. Leonard and the parish church of Takeley for the
space of 8 years.
The parish church of Hatfield:= 20s. for “firemarle” and for banners to be bought for
the church.
The parish church of Elsenham:= 20s.
The parish church of Great Canfield:= 6s. 8d.
The parish church of Little Canfield:= 6s. 8d.
The parish church of Great Easton:= 6s. 8d.
The parish church of Little Easton:= 6s. 8d.
The parish church of Broxted:= 6s. 8d.
The parish church of Stansted:= 6s. 8d.
The parish church of Much Hallingbury:= 6s. 8d.
The parish church of Little Hallingbury := 6s. 8d.
The parish church of Bilye Wrights??:= 6s. 8d.
Every monk in Tilty Abbey:= 12d., so that they sing and say in the Abbey with all
godly haste after his decease, a dirigo Requiem Mass for his soul, and the souls of all
the others previously mentioned.
The children of his brother Richard Gyvar:= 20s each.
Cousin, John Gyvar, who dwells with him:= £6.
Nephew, Thomas Gyvar, son of his brother, who dwells with him:= 5 marks.
£8 6s. 8d. to be spent on penny dole in the City of London before the day of his
months mind.
From his goods:= an honest priest to sing for his soul, and those of his father and
mother , and also the souls of William and Alice Legge, [possibly his parents in law]
and of John their son , and of all souls in the parish church of St. Leonard for one year
after his death.
£6 13s. 4d. to be “dealed” for his soul in Takeley in all goodly haste after his decease.
Wife, Isabell Gyvar:= all the residue of his goods and chattels so that she keep herself
unmarried. If she does marry again, then she is to have only the third part of his goods
according to the custom of the noble City of London. [We know that Isabell Gyvar did
not remarry]
Also Isabell Gyvar is to have care of the £300 left to their sons until they reach their
separate ages of 21 years. So long as she is unmarried, no surety is to be required for
the money.
Page 30
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Should she remarry, then the £300 then the parish and Convent of Crychurch is to
have care of the £300, if they find sufficient surety in the Guildhall of London bound by
a recognisance to the Chamberlaine of London and his successors to pay the money
when required.
Executrix:= wife, Isabell Gyvar, so long as she is not remarried.
If she remarries then the Executors are to be John Woostone the elder, butcher , and
Robert Bolton, tailor, both citizens of London and they get £10 each and their costs for
their labour. If this happens then Isabell Gyvar is to be Overseer of the will “and no
further meddill as she woll answer before god”.
If Isabell is Executor, then the two above become the Overseers and get again £10 for
their pains and labour.
If there is anything in this will that is not ordered according to the laws, then the
Executrix, or Executors shall find the true intent of his mind from learned spiritual and
temporal men. If Isabell undertakes the post of Executrix and then subsequently
remarries, then the second Executors must go to the Court and request to be
admitted.
Probate:= 15/12/1511 given to Isabell Gyvar.
[The church where Gyvar was buried was destroyed with many others in the Great
Fire of London.
We know that Isabell did not remarry as she appears in subsequent Ironmongers
records as taking the rents of various houses. She is also sometimes called Elizabeth.
There is a very fine funeral pall to John Gyvar in the Ironmongers Hall in London.
We do not know how Gyvar went from a modest family from Takeley that dated back
to the mid 14th Century, to becoming a very rich man. There are several references to
him in the records of the Guild of Ironmongers.
The large niche that contained the altar of St Thomas can still be seen in the wall to
the West of the pulpit in Takeley church, but is now empty. It is just possible that
Gyvar was also responsible for the fine font cover and pulpit in Takeley church, but
there is no sound evidence for this. The name Gyvar/Gyva/Guiver still exists locally]
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 31
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Haddesly, Edwin, single man, 28/08/1624, E.R.O. D/ABW 46/122.
Brother, Robert Haddesly:=20s.
Brother, John Haddesly:= 40s. and a quarter of all the rest of his goods.
Brother, Frances Haddesly:= his bay horse, and 20s. to be paid within two and a half
years after the death of the testator.
Sister, Annes Haddesly:=£10 and his two best hutches.
Sister in law, Barbara, wife of Robert Haddesly:= 10s. or an old ring of gold worth 10s.
Loving mother:=10s.
Loving father:=a hutch.
Brother, Phillip Haddesly:= a quarter of all the rest of his goods within two and a half
years after the death of the testator.
Brother, Henry Haddesly:= as above.
Brother, Thomas Haddesly:= as above.
Executor:= father, ???Haddesly.
Overseer:= uncle, Thomas Mounfford.
Witnesses:= Thomas Mounfford, Henry Langley.
Probate:= 19/01/1625.
Page 32
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Hadsely, Robert, yeoman, 21/07/1625, E.R.O. D/ABW 47/260.
To the poor of Takeley:= 10s.
Wife, Agnes Hadsely := the tenement called Randes with the orchard for her life.
The joined bed in the parlour with all the furniture belonging to it. Four pairs of sheets,
two chests, one great and one little, standing in the parlour.
Also one brass pot, two kettles, four pieces of pewter of her choice, one charger, a
little joined stool, three “tubes”, six table napkins, two table cloths, a spit, a cobbern
and a brass mortar with a pestle and one gregion.
40s. to be paid by his Executors on the Feast of All Saints, 1626.
£5 is to be paid to her yearly by Robert Hadsely out of the copyhold land held from
Wallerice [Warish] Hall.
Son, Hugh Hadsely:= the above after the death of Agnes Hadsely. £4 to be paid by
the Executor of Myhel Dyer on the 1st day of January,1626.
Son and heir, Robert Hadsely:= he is to allow Agnes Hadsely one load of wood, or 5s.
yearly for her life. Also 40s.
Son, Phillipp Hadsely:= £18 to be paid by his Executors out of his goods and chattels
on the first day of January, 1625.
Son, Thomas Hadsely:= 40s. to be paid to him by the Executors of Myhel Dyer on the
Feast day of All Saints, 1626.
Son, Frances Hadsely:= £3 to be paid by the Executors on the next Feast of All
Saints.
Son, John Hadsely:= £3 and a parcel of free land lying in a field called Rowley in
Elsenham, with two other parcels of land lying in a field called Lange Field next to the
green in Elsenham.
Daughter, Agnes Hadsely:= £20 to be paid to her on the Feast Day of All Saints, 1626.
Grand- daughter Phillipa, daughter of Phillipp Hadsely:= 40s. to be paid to her at the
age of eighteen years.
Daughter in law, wife of son Robert Hadsely:= 10s.
Daughter in law, wife of son Phillipp Hadsely:= 10s.
Sons, John and Frances Hadsely:= all his outward goods and chattels, they paying his
debts and funeral expenses.
All his children:= the residue of his household stuff, and implements of household
stuff that are unbequeathed.
Executors:= sons, John and Frances Hadsely.
Overseers:= well beloved friend Edwin Lukin and loving brother Thomas Mountford of
Little Canfield. They get 3s. 4d. each for their pains.
Signed Robert Hadsely.
Witnesses := Edwin Lukin, Thomas Mountford, Henry Langley? [there is a large hole
in the document here].
Probate:= 26/09/1625.
[the dates of legacies in 1626 show that he knew that he was at the point of death].
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 33
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Hall, Benjamin, yeoman, 23/02/1847, E.R.O. D/ABR 35/718.
Equal shares to his surviving brothers and sisters.
Executors:= John Patten, Henry Hall, publican
Mark of Benjamin Hall.
Witnesses:= John Coventry, William Bentley.
Probate:= 30/04/1847.
[This would appear to be the will of Benjamin the son of Clement Hall as above]
Page 34
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Hall, Clement, yeoman, 24/12/1846, E.R.O. D/ABW 138/2/6.
Son, Henry Hall:= half of the following, cottage or double tenement, yards, gardens, in
his occupation and that of Mary Watts.
Meadow or pasture called Church pasture in the occupation of Nicholas Patmore.
All household goods, furniture, personal estate, monies arising from the sale of the
real estate with the rents and profits until such sale.
Friend, Thomas Speller:= the other half of the above.
Children of his late son Joseph Hall numbering seven:= equal share in one seventh
part of the residue of his estate. The children are given as John, Henry, Benjamin,
David Hall, Mary the wife of Samuel Kent, Eliza the wife of Edward Champion.
His other children to have equal shares in the remaining six parts.
Executors:= Henry Hall, Thomas Speller.
Witnesses:= Benjamin Anderson, William Bentley
Probate:= 20/01/1847.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 35
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Hampton, Henry, farmer, 25/02/1803, E.R.O. D/ABR 33/92.
Wife, Elizabeth Hampton:= half of all his houses, messuages, tenements, barns,
stables, outhouses, gardens, orchards, hereditaments, and premises, stock in hand,
moneys, securities for money, and personal estate.
Daughter, Ann Hampton:= as above.
Then all to the longest liver and survivor
Thomas Hampton the elder, of Downhall, Hatfield Broad Oak:= 2 guineas.
Executors:= wife, Elizabeth Hampton, brother, Joseph Ramsey, cordwainer, of
Takeley Street, and Thomas Hampton.
Witnesses:=J.W.Poole, John Rous, John Poole.
Probate:= 1827.
[Joseph Ramsey was his brother in law, the husband of Henry’s sister Mary]
Page 36
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Hardcastle, William, carpenter, 18/05/1758, E.R.O. D/ABW 102/1/40.
Brother, David Hardcastle of Henham, wheelwright:= all his real and personal estate
and chattels, after paying out the legacies.
Children of his brother George Hardcastle, Elizabeth, George, William, Ann and
youngest son David:= 10s. within one year after the death of the testator.
Executor:= brother, David Hardcastle.
Witnesses:= John Usher senior, John Usher junior, Howard Usher.
Probate:= 12/04/1766.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 37
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Harvey, Richard, husbandman, 11/12/1564, E.R.O. D/ABW 3/31.
Son, John Harvey:= 40s. at the age of eighteen years, a table, a chest, a calf at May
Day 1565.
Son, Walter Harvey:= 40s. at the age of eighteen years, a table, a chest, a calf at May
Day 1565, a plough chain, an ewe and her lamb, a blanket, a sheet and a pillow at
May Day 1569.
Daughter, Mary Harvey:= 40s. at the age of eighteen years, the chest that was her
mother’s, 2 pairs of sleeves-one of camlet and one knitted, a bearing sheet, a silver
pin, a silver ring, a bolster, a pillow, a sheet, two rails, 2 kercheifs, a latten mortar and
pestle, her mother’s best gown.
Son, Robert Harvey:= 40s. at the age of eighteen years, a table, a cupboard in the
bedchamber at eighteen years, Gore Field which he has redeemed for himself from
Mr.Thorpe, all at the age of twenty one years.
His maiden, Agnes Salman:= a kerchief, a rail.
Servant, John Covell:= his best coat and hose.
Son, William Harvey:= all the rest of his goods, and he is to bring up his brothers and
sister.
The will says that the goods of his predecessor Hugh Bereman amounted to £34 of
which £19 was paid for Grove Field to Richard Gyet, and 20 marks bequeathed to
Hugh’s daughters, Alice and Anne Bereman. Mr. Thorpe has made a re-entry of Gore
Field and Bereman has redeemed it of Thorpe for himself.
Executor:= son, William Harvey.
Overseers:= John Payne, John Marden, who are to get 3s. 4d. each for their pains.
Witnesses:= John Payne, John Marden, Robert Lukynn, John Cavell.
Probate:= 25/06/1565.
Page 38
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Heard, Daniel, 06/04/1797, E.R.O. D/ABW 114/3/49, E.R.O. D/DB T1649. 29/319.
Wife, Hannah Heard:= she is to freely inhabit the messuage where they now dwell,
and receive an Annuity of £5 yearly free from all taxes etc. in lieu of her dower.
All the rest of his personal estate after debts, funeral and probate charges have been
paid.
Nephew, Thomas Heard:= copyhold messuage or tenement, outhouses, yards,
orchards, lands, grounds, hereditaments now or late in the occupation of the testator,
lying in Takeley, Broxted and Elsenham.
Executrix and Executor:= wife, Hannah Heard, nephew, Thomas Heard.
The mark of Daniel Heard.
Witnesses:= Thomas Dennison, John White, John Read makes a mark.
Probate:= 13/09/1800.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 39
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Howe, Robert, shoemaker, 25/01/1569, E.R.O. D/ABW 18/298.
Buried in Takeley churchyard.
Wife, Joan Howe:= all his goods. If she chances to remarry she is to pay his children
Joan, Elizabeth and Mary 40s. each at the age of sixteen years.
Executrix:= wife, Joan Howe.
Overseer:= brother, Robert Battysford with 20s. for his pains.
Witnesses:= Robert Lukyn, Nicholas Harrysse, Thomas Battisford, Bartrobe Luykyn.
Probate:= 16/02/1569.
[Robert Battysford is presumably his brother in law, so wife Joan was born Joan
Battysford]
Page 40
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Howell, William, miller, 13/03/1611, E.R.O. D/ABW 20/180.
Sick in body.
The poor of Takeley:= 5s. to be distributed at his burial within one month following his
death.
Daughter and son in law, Agnes and Owen Wilkes:= his part of the field which was
once one field, called Myllfeild, now divided with houses, edifices and buildings. All
part of Colchester Hall Manor. To be held for six years immediately after the death of
the testator, and paying to his daughter, Elizabeth Wood, the sum of £10.
All the rest of his goods, chattels, moveable and unmoveable, after paying his debts
and funeral expenses.
Daughter, Elizabeth Wood:= the £10 above mentioned to be paid at the rate of £5
within three years, and £5 in the next three years. If Elizabeth Wood is dead then the
money is to be paid to her two children, Thomas and Agnes Wood.
If payment is not made all three have the right of entry to the land, but not taking more
than two crops and maintaining the buildings etc.
At the end of the six year period then Owen and Agnes Wilkes have the land for the
term of four score and nineteen years.
Grand children, Thomas and Agnes, children of daughter Elizabeth Wood:= they
inherit the land if Agnes Wilkes dies at the end of the four score and nineteen years
without heirs.
Daughter, Elizabeth Wood:= an annuity of 6s.8d. a year to be taken from his house
and grounds called Sturdyes in Leaden Rooding. This is to start in three years after
the death of the testator, starting at the next Feast of St Michael the Archangel. She
has the right of entry into the property if payment is not made.
Daughter, Elianor Cubitt:= an annuity of 20s. from the above property, as above.
Grand children, William and John, children of his daughter Elianor Cubbit:= 40s. each,
to be paid to them at the age of twenty five years. If either die before then, then the
other inherits.
Son, William Howell:= 20s. to be paid at the end of his apprentice ship.
Executrix:= daughter, Agnes Wilkes.
Overseers:= well beloved friends Laurence Samsum, gent, and John White. They get
4s. each for their pains, and their expenses.
Witnesses:= Laurence Samsum, Robert Newman, John Whyte and others.
Signed by William Howell.
Probate:= 24/04/1612.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 41
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Humphrey, Nathaniel, yeoman, 17/03/1736, D/ABW 92/2/9.
Wife, Elizabeth Humphrey:= one third of all the rest and residue of goods, farming
stock, cattle, chattels, and personal estate.
After her death it is to be divided equally between sons Nathaniel and Joseph
Humphreys.
Daughter, Sarah Stoaks:= 1s. within one month of the death of the testator, “ having
already in my Life time sufficiently provided for them”
Son, John Humphrey:= as above.
Daughter, Elizabeth Collier:= £10 to be paid within three months after the death of the
testator.
Son, Nathaniel Humphrey:= one third as above.
Son, Joseph Humphrey:= one third as above.
Executrix and Executors:= wife Elizabeth Humphrey, sons Nathaniel and Joseph
Humphrey.
Witnesses:= Peter Calvert, James Gouldesburgh.
Probate:= 26/01/1737.
Page 42
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Hutton. Walter, 08/02/1613, D/ABW 20/217.
Buried in Takeley churchyard.
Wife, Frances Hutton:= all his houses and land for her life. All goods, household stuff
and implements which are within the house where he dwells.
Son, George Hutton:= the houses and land after the death of his mother.
God daughter, Mary Hutton:= 20s. to be paid out of the house and lands in one year
after the death of testator’s wife, Frances Hutton.
Executrix:= wife, Frances Hutton.
Witnesses:= Henrye Langley, the mark of Walter Hutton.
Probate:= 14/03/1613.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 43
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Ingolde, John, husbandman, 21/03/1608, D/ABW 21/236.
Wife, Marye Ingolde:= one third of his goods.
Daughter, Hester Ingolde:= joined bedstead, new brass pot, two pewter plates, one
third of his goods, household stuff, chattels and moveables at the discretion of three or
four honest men of the parish.
Daughter, Marye Ingolde:= table and frame in the hall, the bench and bench board
and the form belonging to it, or said to belong to it, great brass pot, two pewter
platters. One third of his goods as above.
The portions allotted to the two daughters are to be sold as soon as conveniently after
the death of the testator and the money to be paid to the girls when they are old
enough in law, or at the day of their marriage. If either dies before this time then the
other inherits.
Executor:= friend, Lawrence Samford, gent who is given 20s. for his pains.
Overseers:= his cousin, William Meade, and brother, Robert Ingold, and for their pains
3s. 4d. each.
Witnesses:= Niclas Ingold, William Mead, Lawrence Samford and others.
It appears that John Ingold may have been able to sign his own name.
Probate:= 18/09/1609
On reverse are listed debts.
“Dette by within named John Ingold owing as well by forre of his fathers will as
otherwise “To brother, Fraunces Ingolde:= 13s. 4d. due next New Year’s day.
Brother in law, Lawrence Raye:= 50s. payable on Michaelmas day next.
Brother, Brewster:= £5 part of a legacy from his father to be paid about five years
hence.
Brother, Edward Sabyn:= a like legacy.
Ellyn Ingold, daughter of his brother Robert:= 40s. to be paid at the time of her
marriage.
Brother, Thomas Ingolde:= 15s.
Mother, 20s. due last Michaelmas.
Uncle, Nicholas Ingolde:= 6s. 8d.
Page 44
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Ives, Elizabeth, widow, 25/04/1730, D/ABW 88/12/119.
Son, John Ives:= three crofts or closes of land, pasture and arable in Stansted
Mountfichett at or near a certain place called Burton End, and now or late in the
occupation of John Ford.
All other lands and tenements, goods, chattels, personal estate after paying debts and
funeral charges.
Grand daughter, Elizabeth Judd, daughter of her son-in-law Phillip Judd and Elizabeth
his wife:= £5 at the age of twenty one years.
Executor:= son, John Ives.
Witnesses:= John ?Heneall, Fuller White, Henry Staines.
Probate:= 07/10/1730.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 45
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Judd, Annis/Agnes, widow, 02/01/1638, D/ABW/60/103.
Buried in Takeley churchyard.
Son, Philip Judd of Debden, yeoman:= her best kettle, and all the rest of her goods
not otherwise bequeathed, after paying her debts and funeral charges.
The messuage and tenements with yards, orchards, gardens, lately purchased of
Thomas Judd.
Two customary tenements held of a Manor, with all appurtenances.
On condition that he pays to daughters Thamar Judd, Joyce Griggs, widow, Jane, wife
of William Wallis, Susanna, wife of Henry Pryer as follows :=
Thamar Judd:= 30s. a year until she stays unmarried.
Joyce Griggs:= £4 in one year after the death of the testator, and Thamar Judd.
Jane Wallis:= £4 in two years after the death of Thamar Judd.
Susanna Pryer:= £4 in 2½ years after the death of Thamar Judd.
Eldest son, Thomas Judd:= 12d to be paid in one month after the death of the testator.
Daughter, Susanna Pryer:= one cupboard, one feather bed, one bolster, one casting
sheet, one pair of flaxen pillow beeres,
Daughter, Thamar Judd:= £4 within one month of the death of the testator, one feather
bed, one bolster, one pillow, one pair of sheets, one pillow beere, one Keverleene, two
blankets, one brass pot, two kettles, one posnet, . After the death of Thamar it goes to
son Philip Judd.
Executor:= son, Philip Judd.
Witnesses:= William Michell, Cleric, [some crossing out which it is impossible to read]
Signed:= mark of Symond Wright, mark of Richard Lane, to a note dated 02 January
that the sum of £4 left to Thamar Judd after her death is to the use of Philip Judd.
Probate:= Henham 03/10/1648.
Page 46
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Judd, Luke, yeoman, 07/05/1714, D/ABW 83/94.
“In bodily health and perfect mind and memory praised be to Almighty God, but calling
to mind the uncertainty of this life”
Daughter, Elizabeth, wife of Edward Stanes of Hatfield Broad Oak.
Daughter, Mary, wife of James Bingham.
Equal share, share and share alike of all his money, securities for money, goods and
personal estate.
Son, William Judd:= 1s. to be paid by the Executrix when demanded.
Executrix:= daughters, Elizabeth Stanes and Mary Bingham.
Mark of Luke Judd. (Words our health being interlined before the sealing thereof).
Witnesses:= Thomas Sterry makes a mark, Sarah Mountford makes a mark, Robert
Mountford.
Probate := 29/10/1719.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 47
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Judd, Philip, yeoman, 05/08/1713 1653/4, D/ABW 81/157.
Wife, Martha Judd:= a £12 annuity to be paid by his nephew Phillip Judd in 2 equal
instalments for her life.
Also all the goods in the parlour of his dwelling house, and in the chamber over the
hall, with the use of all his household goods for her life.
Also two crofts or closes called Trumpetts and Bonningtons Croft of 5 acres now in his
own occupation, for her life.
Nephew, Philip, the son of his brother Thomas Judd:= his 2 customary messuages or
tenements with barns, stables, yards, orchards, and arable lying in Takeley in the
occupation of Samuell Scholes and Henry Burles.
Bequest is on condition he pays Martha, testator’s loving wife £12 in equal shares on
the Feasts of St Michael, and the Annunciacion of the Virgin Mary, for the term of her
natural life.
Also the bed where he lies with the pillow, bolster, blankets, coverlet, bedstead and
curtains belonging to it, all after the death of Martha Judd.
Nephews and niece, John, Thomas and Mary Judd, children of his brother Thomas
Judd:= £5 each in 2 years after the death of testator’s wife.
Nephew and niece, John and Mary Speller, children of his sister Alice Speller:= as
above.
Nephews and niece, Mary, William and Joseph Kent, children of his deceased sister
Mary Kent:= as above.
Nephew, John Judd, son of his brother William Judd:= as above, and a messuage or
tenement containing 1 acre.
If nephew Philip Judd does not pay these legacies, they have the right to enter to
regain the amount left to them.
Nephew Phillip Judd, son of his brother John Judd:= Trumpetts and Bonningtons Croft
after the death of Martha Judd.
Also all his goods and stock of cattle, utensils of husbandry and other farm stock
without doors.
All the residue of his goods and chattels not already bequeathed, and he is to pays the
testator’s debts, legacies and funeral charges.
Martha Felsted, daughter of John Felsted of Moreton, deceased:= his messuage or
tenement with house, yards, stables, garden and outhouses , and one customary croft
called Vicaradge Croft of 1 ½ acres. All after the death of Martha Judd.
Nephews and nieces, Mary, wife of Henry Spernbers??, William Judd, Alise, wife of
Phillip Baker, Elizabeth, wife of John Ladley, all the children of his brother John Judd:=
£5 to be paid within two years after the death of Martha Judd.
Executrix and Executor:= wife, Martha Judd, nephew Phillip, son of his brother John
Judd.
[There do not appear to be any witnesses.]
Probate:= 19/05/1714
Page 48
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Judd, Philip, yeoman, 1770, D/AMW 17/10/13.
Wife, Prudence Judd:= he ratifies an Agreement or Settlement made on his marriage
to her that his copyhold messuage or tenement with the lands, grounds etc. go to his
brother James Judd in the event of their being no issue from his marriage.
She is to get £200 that goes to whoever she assignes, within three months after her
death.
All the rest of his monies, credits, cattle, corn farming stock, household goods, chattels
and personal estate.
Executrix:= wife, Prudence Judd.
Witnesses:= Francis Tilliard, Charles Clubbe, Isaac Gunn.
Probate:= 07/11/1770.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 49
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Judd, William, yeoman, 11/04/1738, D/ABW 93/2/86.
Wife, Mary Judd:= £6 clear of all taxes to be paid yearly by son Henry Judd for her life.
If the payment is not made she has the right to enter the land until the money is
satisfactorily paid.
She has the use, but not the property of all his household goods and furniture for her
life.
Son, Henry Judd:= term of years in a messuage farm called Copthall in Little Canfield
held by lease from Mr.John Huske.
Two crofts of land called Gildlands in his own occupation. After Henry’s death it goes
to Mary, Henry Judd’s wife.
Son in law, John Waylett:= the messuage or tenement with barns, stables, buildings,
yard, and garden, customary and heriotable called Maggots, which he purchased from
Jeremiah Nightingale and Robert Poole, and now in testator’s occupation.
After the death of John Waylet it goes to Waylet’s wife Prudence Waylet.
All the rest of his goods, chattels, farming stock, ready monies, personal estate after
paying his debts and funeral expenses.
The messuage and land are charged with a payment of £50 to Joseph Plum, yeoman,
of which £30 is to be paid in one year after the death of the testator, and £20 in one
year after the death of Prudence the testator’s wife.
The messuage etc. is also charged with a payment of £3 yearly in four equal
instalments. Usual provision for non payment.
Eldest son of son, William Judd:= £20. All the household goods that belonged to his
father after the death of the testator’s wife.
Granddaughter, Prudence Saltmarsh:= £5.
Grandson William Saltmarsh, brother of the above:= £5.
Both legacies to be paid when they are twenty one years old. The two grandchildren
inherit all the rest of his household goods and furniture after the death of testator’s
wife to be divided equally between them.
Joseph Plum:= his largest kettle after the death of testator’s wife Prudence Judd.
Executor:= son in law, John Waylet.
Advisers:= friend Mr. James Wyatt of Little Canfield, Mr. Philip Judd of Broxted.
William Judd makes a mark.
Witnesses:= Thomas Brown, Samuel Pilbrow, Thomas Bridges.
Probate:= 21/10/1740.
Page 50
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Kendall, John, esq., of Bassingbourne Hall, 02/10.1727, National Archives, Prob.
/11/681.
Trustees := Tobey Chanrey, esq., of Northampton, and Thomas Abney, esq., of
Leicester. To hold all his lands, messuages, tenements etc. for the full term of 500
years if his brother William Kendall shall live that long, without Impeachmnet of Waste,
and with certain conditions.
They are to sell what is necessary to fulfil his Legacies if his personal estate is not
sufficient. Also they are to pay all his debts, incumberances, mortgages etc.
Brother, Beckford Kendall:= to pay to William Kendall his brother while he is still living,
every year the rents and issues of the said premises.
Any dispute over this between the brothers is to be settled by the Trustees.
If and when all debts etc. are paid then it all goes to Beckford Kendall.
The Trustees:= £50 each for their pains.
Henry Staines of Great Dunmow, gent:= he is to be reimbursed out of the sales etc.,
for the Bonds which he has entered into with Kendal. Other bonds are :=
1) Mrs. Parker of Waddington for £100.
2) Mrs. Mary Penny of London, spinster, for £100.
3) Bail in a writ of error for him with Anne Cole.
Edward Weaver:= to be repaid the £90 owing to him.
Mrs. Elizabeth Matthews of Fleet Street, widow, is to have her account with Kendall
settled and the balance paid to her within six months after his death.
Brother, Beckford Kendall:= £400 for his trouble and the execution of the will.
Reverend John Reynolds, Vicar of Stansted Mountfichet:= £10 to be paid within three
months after his death.
Fuller White and his wife:= 9s. a week for each week they have lived in his house,
over and above what was due to him when they came there.
Servant, John Philips, labourer:= 20s.
Servant, Ezeciel Haley:= 20s.
Servant, Thomas Abraham:= 20s.
Servant, James Wright:= 20s.
Servant, James Wiffen:= 20s.
Servant, Richard Baker, senior:= 20s.
Executor:= brother, Beckford Kendall.
Witnesses:= Mathias Palmer, John Jones, John Staling.
Probate:= 16/02/1736.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 51
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Kendall, William, esquire, 30/12/1741, National Archives, Prob. 11/715.
Cousins, Martha Kendall and Dorothy Webb:= his freehold estate, which is the house
and ground which he now lives in, with his copyhold house in Orange Street,
[?London].
His book debts, household effects, and all he possess at the time of his death after
paying his debts and legacies.
Cousin, Martha Bland:= the above property after the death of the above named
cousins.
Aunt, Mary Kendall:= £5 for mourning.
Cousin, Mary Whitaker:= £10 for mourning.
Cousin, Martha Bland and her husband [not named]:= £10 each for mourning.
Daughter of the above, Dorothy Bland:= mourning at the discretion of the Executors.
Richard Addisins and his wife [not named]:= £5 to pay the rent.
Executrixes:= cousins, Martha Kendal and Dorothy Webb.
Witnesses:= John Watson, William T. Fariss, William Jordan.
Probate:= 09/01/1741.
Page 52
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Kendall, William, of Bassingbourne Hall, National Archives, Prob 11/ 462.
Wife, Elizabeth Kendall:= the manor house called Bassingbournes with the yards,
gardens and orchards belonging to it, now in his occupation, with the exception of the
barns, barn yards and stables, and the house called Kings house and other
conveniences for a tenant.
Also his two coaches and a pair of the best coach horses, and her gold watch, pearl
necklace, a silver bason, three silver salvers and candlesticks.
Brother Robert Cawick, wife Elizabeth Kendall and son John Kendall are jointly to sell
the Rectory and Parsonage of Great Canfield, with all the lands, grounds and great
tithes to pay all his debts.
They are also to pay the interest on the Mortgage of a messuage or tenement in
Takeley with the land attached and now in the occupation of Francis Clerke. Also any
other of his debts.
Wife, Elizabeth Kendall and son, John Kendall:= his manor with the lands tenements
and hereditaments in Takeley, Stansted Mountfitchet and Elsenham, to pay the rest of
his debts and legacies.
Second son, William Kendall:= £600 and the interest on it at 5 %, to be paid to him by
his brother John Kendall at the age of twenty one years, or during the life of John
English, Vicar of Takeley.
If John English has left to William Kendall the sum of £600 in his will, then the £600
that testator is leaving him shall be void. If English leaves William Kendall less than
the £600, then the sum given shall be deducted from this legacy with the exception of
£100.
Third son, Robert Kendall:= the sum of £600 with interest at 5% to be paid to him by
brother John Kendall when he reaches the age of twenty one years.
Youngest son, Beckford Kendall:= £600 to be paid as above.
Daughter, Frances Kendall:= £600 to be paid as above, or when she marries.
If any of his children should die, then their legacy is shared amongst the survivors.
Son, John Kendall:= all the residue of his freehold and customary messuages, lands,
tenements and hereditaments, with all the rest of his goods chattels and personal
estate whatsoever. This is after paying his debts, legacies and funeral expenses.
Should his son William Kendall die before the age of twenty one and before John
English dies then his legacy is void and is not to be divided among the remaining
children.
He also wishes to be privately buried.
Executor and Executrix := son, John Kendall and wife, Elizabeth Kendall. They are
also to be Guardians of his younger children during their minority.
Overseer:= his loving brother Robert Cawick
Witnesses := Kendall Heron, Henry Staines, Ann Cater.
Probate:= 28/11/1701.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 53
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Kelsey, George, 7/12/1575, D/ABW 22/117.
To the poor:= 3s. 4d.
Wife, Joan Kelsey:= his lease and term of years of the house and land where he
dwells in order to bring up his children. All the remainder of his goods after the
legacies are paid.
Son, George Kelsey:= 20 marks at the age of 20.
Daughter, Margaret Myller:= 40s.
Daughters, Joan, Mary, Frances, Anne, Kelsey:= 5 marks each at the age of 20 or at
their marriage.
Grandson, George, son of his daughter Margaret Myller:= 10s.
? Son in law, Thomas Myller:= 10s.
Executrix:= wife, Joan Kelsey,
Overseer:= brother in law Thomas [?Myller]. He gets 4d. for his pains.
Witnesses:= Robert Lukyn, John Sanders, Robert Myller.
Probate:= 11/01/1576.
Page 54
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
King, Elizabeth, widow, 30/05/1769, E.R.O. D/DB T1652.
Elizabeth King was previously married to John Ray or Raye.
Husband:= Henry King, freehold messuage, lands and tenement with their
appurtenances at or near Morrells Green, sometime in the occupation of John Ray,
and now of husband Henry King.
The mark of Elizabeth King.
No executor named.
Witnesses := Robert Tindall, James Judd, Edward Searl.
No probate date given.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 55
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
King, John, miller, 1757, E.R.O. D/ABW 99/1/46.
Wife, Mary King:= £25 to be paid within one year after the death of the testator.
Cousin, Henry King of Langley, blacksmith, son of Henry King now or late of Saffron
Walden := all his freehold messuage, tenement, farm, all barns, stable, outhouses,
yards, lands, meadows, pasture all in Hatfield Regis, and in the occupation of James
Bingham.
Nephew, John Turner of Great Hallingbury, son of his late sister Elizabeth Turner:=
£10 within one year after the death of the testator.
Niece, Rachel Waller, spinster, daughter of his sister Ann Waller of Hatfield Broad
Oak:= £10 within one year after the death of the testator. Also anything [?money] that
is owing from John Eve.
John Eve:= all his wearing apparel. The remainder of his goods after the above have
all been paid.
Executor:= John Eve.
Witnesses:= Stephen Chesson, John Broughton, Henry Staines.
Probate:= 02/06/1757.
Page 56
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
King, Thomas, 01/03/1587, D/ABW/22/155.
[This is a nuncupative will].
Son, John King the younger:= a table, a form, 2 bench boards, a cupboard, and a
painted cloth.
Wife, Margaret King:= all the rest of his goods.
Sons, John King the elder, John King the younger, and Daughter, Joan King ;= any
goods that have been spared in the life time of his wife, and not spent in looking after
her, to be divided equally between them.
Administration:= Margaret King, his widow, granted 27/06/1587.
Witnesses := Thomas Wyberd, John Cawbecke, John Belcham.
Probate = 27/06/1587
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 57
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Knight, John, farmer of Bambrous [Bambers] Green, 28/10/1825, E.R.O. D/ABW
129/1/73.
Wife, Elizabeth Knight:= all his goods whatsoever for as long as she shall live.
Eldest son, John Knight:= plough cart and all implements of husbandry.
Children, John, Ann, Elizabeth, Sharlott, Mary, Susannah and Lucy Knight:= all the
money raised from the sale of his goods after the death of Elizabeth Knight his wife.
Mary Speller:= £5.
James Davis:= his part—that is to say his share of the money divided among his
children.
All money to be paid in six months after the death of his wife, Elizabeth Knight.
Executors:= eldest son John Knight, Benjamin ?Bolens.
Mark of John Knight, senior.
Witnesses:= Peter Warren, mark of Henry Poulton, Robert Garrett.
[I give this in full as it is unusual]. Added to the will:=
“I John Knight do wish and alter my will and testament, that is to say, to take out of my
money and goods the sum of 10 pounds to be deducted from my son Joseph Knight
and 5 pounds for my daughter Mary Byat and likewise 5 pounds to be deducted for my
daughter Susan Vale dated this 12 day April 1827. And I further wish and decree that
no money nor goods to be parted until the decease of myself and my wife twelve
months after the death of both of us.
The mark of JohnKnight.
Witness:= P. Warren.”
Probate:= 12/11/1831.
[John Knight was buried at Takeley church on 07/08/1830, aged 90 years. There is a
confusion in the name of the son called Knight from John to Joseph.]
Page 58
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Knight, Simon, butcher. 26/09/1720. E.R.O. D/ABW 105/1/69.
Son, Simon Knight := two silver table spoons and his silver buckle.
Daughter, Mary Knight := her mother’s silver buckles and gold ring.
Daughter, Elizabeth Knight := five silver teaspoons and all his china.
The farm he rents in Great Hallingbury is to be kept or sold as the Executors thing
most profitable for his three children. As soon as possible after his death his
household goods, stock in trade, crop and affects at his dwelling house and premises
in Takeley are to be sold. After paying his debts and funeral charges they are to be
sold and together with any money owing to him, to be sold or used at the discretion of
the Executors to bring up and educate his three children.
As soon as the Executors think that the children have reached their proper age to be
entrusted with the money, then they are to have it share and share alike.
Executors := brothers, Joseph and Robert Knight.
Witnesses := Mary Palmer, Richard Kent, John Palmer.
Signed by Simon Knight.
Probate := 12/11/ 1774. A note that Joseph Knight is now dead.
A note at the bottom of the page that Simon Knight died in Takeley in November 1771.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 59
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Lambert, Thomas, tailor, 1740, E.R.O. D/ABW 93/2/23.
Son, William Lambert:= all his freehold cottage or tenement where he dwells paying
out £6 to his brother Simon 12 months after testator’s death.
Grandson, Thomas, son of his late son Thomas Lambert:= £5 to be paid at the rate of
10s. a year, starting 12 months after the death of the testator.
Should Grandson Thomas die before the total payment is made, the remainder goes
to son William Lambert.
Son, Simon Lambert:= the barn and half the yard belonging to the cottage. Also all
the residue of the estate after the expenses have been paid.
Executor:= son, Simon Lambert.
Witnesses:= Samuel Palmer, Richard Canill/ Cavill, S…Bridge.
Probate 1740.
Page 60
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Lammas, John, blacksmith, 18/04/1728, E.R.O. D/ABW 84/3/50.
Wife, Susanna Lammas:= his customary messuage called Currents and one other
messuage or tenement built on his premises, in the occupation of John Green, in
Lower Bandbury Green [Lower Bambers Green] and held of the manor of St
Walleriche [Warish Hall], with all yards, orchards, gardens, outhouses and edifices.
Also his copyhold messuage or tenement in Fyfeild called Lorripitts held of the Manor
of Fifeild Hall, in the occupation of Isaac Morrell, with yards, orchards, gardens,
outhouses, and edifices.
Also all the freehold messuage or tenement in Great Dunmow in the occupation of
John Mott with all the appurtenances.
Also all the freehold messuage or tenement in Great Waltham now divided into two
tenements in the occupation of John Turnidge and Thomas Watten, with yards,
orchards, gardens, outhouses, and edifices.
Also all his stock within and without doors and debts or moneys.
Executrix:= wife, Susanna Lammas, after his burial and the discharge of all his debts
etc.
Witnesses:= Thomas Bright, John Liwens, Philip Lee, John Clarke.
Probate:= 10/01/1729.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 61
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Lammas, Susanna, 27/12/1729, National Archives Prob. 11/656.
Daughter, Ann, wife of Stephen Millbank:= £40. One third of all her wearing apparell
both woollen and linen.
Daughter, Susanna, wife of Henry Chivins:= £40. One third of her wearing apparel,
both woollen and linen, her best feather bed, best pillow and pillow beere.
Daughter, Elizabeth Mayers:= £40. One third of her wearing apparel, both woollen and
linen.
All the rest of her goods, chattels and personal estate after paying her debts, legacies,
and funeral charges, to be divided amongst the three daughter share and share alike.
Son, Thomas Lammas:= £30. One pair of sheets and a joined bed.
Son, John Lammas:= her cottage or tenement with yards, garden and one croft of
land in Fifeild, now or late in the tenure of Isaac Morrell or his assignes, and charged
with the payment of £10 to his brother Thomas Lammas within one year after her
death.
Also the cottage or tenement at, or near, Parsonage Downe in Great Dunmow, now or
late in the occupation of William Gunn or his assignes.
The mark of Susanna Lammas.
Executor:= Stephen Millbank.
Witnesses:= Thomas Bedlow, Henry Staines, William Pratt.
Probate:= 31/01/1732.
Page 62
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Lane, Richard, taylor, 04/11/1650, E.R.O. D/ABW 62/117.
Sick in body.
Son, Richard Lane:= 2s. to be paid within three months after testator’s death.
Daughter, Elizabeth, wife of Thomas Speller:= his croft or close of land called
Puckeridge in Elsenham, on condition that she pays to her sister Margaret Lane the
sum of 20s. a year. If Margaret gets married then the payment is no longer to be
made. If she “do keep her Self Single” and also outlives Elizabeth, then she is to have
£4 a year.
In default of payment then Margaret is to enjoy all the four acres in Elsenham
commonly called Pickeridge .
So long as Elizabeth and Thomas Speller are alive then Margaret is to only get the
20s.
He leaves the four acres of land to Elizabeth and Thomas Speller.
Daughters, Elizabeth Speller and Margaret Lane:= to share all his goods and chattels
whatsoever known to be his within and without his house. Also any debts or bonds
that are due to him
The mark of Richard Lane.
Executrix:= daughter, Elizabeth Speller.
Witnesses:= John Philip, Edmund Page.
Probate was given “yterles? 04/11/1656
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 63
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Laver, George, yeoman, 13/08/1632, E.R.O. D/ABW 51/54.
“weake in bodie”
Wife, Agnes Laver:= his messuage and tenement with 4 acres of arable and pasture,
both free and copyhold called Little Broade Croft, and in his tenure. To hold for her life.
Also all his goods and chattels whatsoever.
Daughter, Agnes Laver:= the above after the death of her mother. She is to live in the
messuage with her mother so long as she remains unmarried.
Daughter of his son in law, William Stanes, called Marie:= all the above if Agnes Laver
the testator’s daughter leaves no heirs.
Daughters, Margaret and Marie ? Laver := 12d. each
Son of his son, [name unreadable] := 12d.
Executrix:= wife, Agnes Laver.
Witnesses := ….Stanes, Anthony Hansaker.
George Laver makes a mark.
Probate : = 13 October 1632
[Daughter Marie may have been the wife of William Stanes, who is probably the
witness who has no Christian name]
Page 64
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Laver, Ales, widow, 10/09/1618, E.R.O. D/ABW 24/194.
Sick in body.
Grandchildren, children of her son Thomas Kent:= 20s. each.
Grand daughter, Anne, daughter of George Laver:= her best coverynge.
Nycholus Wybard:= all her ffyer [fire] wood.
Anne Lukyn:= an old kettell.
Ann Glascocke ;= her worst kettell.
Prudence Lukin:= her best pewter platter.
Johane Myller:= 2s.
Johane, daughter of Robert Myller:= a pair of shoes and one pewter dyshe.
Son, John Kent:= all the rest of her goods and implements of “howshold”
Witnesses ;= Robert Myller, Nycholus Wybard, Elizabeth Wybard, Anne Lukin,
Probate:= 15/03/1619.
“dettes owynge to Alse Laver.
Imprimis Robert Myller iiii li [£4].
It John Marden senior iiii li [£4].
Mr. Sammuell Gaynsfford xl s [40s].
Lyonell Ingold xl s [40s].
[I assume that Alice Laver had previously been married to a man named Kent,
probably with the Christian name of either Thomas or John.]
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 65
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Laver, John the elder, yeoman, 13/10/1665, E.R.O. D/ABW 66/203.
Aged in body.
To be buried in Takeley churchyard.
Eldest son, Hugh Laver and his wife Mary, or the longer liver of them:= full satisfaction
of the promise of £20 made by testator at time of their marriage.
Also the customary tenement and two acres of customary land in Laydon by Billericay
which he has surrendered into the hands of the Lord of the Manor to the uses of his
will. After the death of Hugh and Mary Laver it goes to their children John and
….Laver.
Son in law,Thomas Fordham and his wife Margaret, daughter of John Laver:= his
messuage or tenement called Gorefield Cottage with five acres of land and pasture,
for the life of the longest liver of them.
They are to pay to his grandson George, youngest son of his son John Laver, and to
son John Laver the sum of £6.
Daughter, Philippa Laver:= the sum of 5s.
After the death of Thomas and Margaret Fordham, Gorefield Cottage is to go to their
son, his grandson John Fordham, and he is to pay his sister Elizabeth the sum of £30
within one year of possession of the premises.
Daughter, Margaret, wife of Thomas Fordham:= all the rest of his goods and chattels
after paying his debts and funeral expenses.
Executrix:= daughter, Margaret Fordham.
Witnesses:= John Stanes, the mark of Gilbert Foster, John Kendall.
Probate:= 08/07/1671.
[Gorefield Cottage could be the house now called Rose Cottage at Mill End].
Page 66
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Laver, John the elder, 03/05/1585, E.R.O. D/ABW 23/242.
To the poor:= 6s. 8d.
Wife, Alice Laver:= her dwelling in the kitchen solar, also the going to make fire in the
bole, paying 3s. 4d. for the same to son John. Also 1 quarter of barley and 1 quarter of
wheat to be paid by his Executors.
Eldest son, John Laver:= the house where he dwells called Martynes with lands both
free and copyhold, except for Rychardeslay, Bassetes Mead and Chicheland, which
have already been conveyed to testator’s son George Laver. This is on condition that
John pays to testator’s daughters, Jane Stanes, Margaret Halkynes, Joan Glascoke,
Elizabeth Bromley and Agnes Laver £4 each within 7 years after the death of the
testator.
Also the goods, cattle and the corn growing, or the corn in the barn.
Also five painted cloths in the hall, the table, form and lattice, and one joined bed with
the cloths hanging in the parlour.
Daughter, Agnes Laver:= his best feather bed, the cupboard in the hall with two cloths
serving it, one chest in the solar, the best chairs, one shelf in the hall, one latten
chaffing dish, one press in the solar, one pewter pot, the best candlestick, the best
brass pot, one bedstead in the parlour, two painted cloths in the solar, and one cow.
Richard Glascocke:= his chest which he occupies, and one quarter of barley.
Godchildren:= 8d. each.
Children of Joan Laver:= 6s. 8d. each.
George Laver’s children ;= 6s. 8d. each [George is probably the son George]
Five daughters:= his cattle, corn and goods to be shared equally between them.
Executors:= Son, George Laver, son in law Edmund Glascocke. 3s. 4d. each for their
pains.
Overseer:= son in law Thomas Staines. 3s. 4d. for his pains.
Witnesses:= William Williams, Philip Brewer, Lewis Necholsone
It was agreed between John and George Laver that the timber appointed for the little
kitchen chamber should remain still to the building of the same, on condition that
George and the other Executor should have the liberty to lay their corn in the testator’s
accustomed rooms.
Probate:= 19/05/1585.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 67
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Laver, John the elder, husbandman. 10/10/1627. D/ABW 54/28.
“Sycke in bodye”.
Burial in Takeley church yard.
Wife, Phyllyppe Laver := all his goods and household implements.
Son, John Laver := ten shillings to be paid one year after the death of Phyllype Laver.
Son, Hughe Laver := ten pounds to be paid one year after the death of Phyllype
Laver.
Son, Edward Laver := ten pounds to be paid in two years after the death of Phyllype
Laver.
Daughter, Marye Hurte := five pounds to be paid five years after the death of the
testator.
Daughter, Phyllype Foote := five pounds to be paid three years after the death of
Phyllype Laver.
Daughter, Elizabeth ?Gylstre := five pounds to be paid three years after the death of
Phyllype Laver.
Daughter Joan Browne := the little “cubowrd” in the hall.
If any of his children die before they get their legacies then the rest is shared
according to the way the legacies have been left.
All of the legacies and bequests are to be paid out of his copyhold tenement and lands
called Bayley. He surrenders the tenement to his son in law Thomas Browne for the
better paying of his legacies and bequests.
He revokes and repeals all former wills and surrenders and further wills that five days
after his death Thomas and Johanne Browne, or their heirs, shall be admitted in Court
to take up the land. They shall then give his overseers sufficient Bonds for the
payment and performing of his legacies in the time stated.
The mark of John Laver.
Witness := Edwin Lukyn. [This seems to be his own signature. He lived at Parkers].
Probate := 30/10/1637.
[“Bayley” is now Gore Lodge on Smiths Green].
Page 68
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Linsell, Elizabeth, widow, 28/04/1848, E.R.O. D/ABW 139/1/66.
George Newman, farmer of Stanstead Mountfichet:= household goods, furniture,
plate, linen, china, money and in particular the sum of £150, or thereabouts, in the
hands of James Young of Canfield.
Also all personal estate and effects.
Executors:= George Newman, James Faiman.
Probate:= 11/09/1848.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 69
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Lorkyn, William, 20/01/1545, E.R.O. D/ABW 23/46.
[This will was extremely difficult to read, and will need to be looked at again]
Son, William Lorkyn:= ij ?? …. Money… the same are to have custody of…
Daughter, Joan Lorkyn:=…feather bedd..
…?son, John:= one hogg or a … to be delivered at 20 next…
My man, John Lorkyn:=10s.
Probate:= 00/02/1545.
[ I think Lorkyn may be a version of the name Lukin]
Page 70
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Lukin, Edwin, 27/07/1640, E.R.O. D/ABW 58/170.
Sick in body.
Second son, George Lukin:= his copyhold messuage called Parkers where he now
dwells with all the appurtenances, copyhold lands, meadows, and pastures of
approximately twenty five acres, on condition that he pays to testator’s daughter
Elizabeth Lukin £100 within three years after the death of the testator.
Within one week after the death of the testator, George is to be jointly bound with his
brother Robert Lukin in the sum of £200 to be paid to Elizabeth Lukin.
Son, John Lukin:= the close of land with appurtenances called Crabtree Croft
containing eight acres.
Son, Thomas Lukin:= three score and fifteen pounds [£75] to be paid to him within
three years after the death of the testator.
Son, Robert Lukin:= the freehold lands called Great Downes, Sellers Downes and
Bunnes Mead of some fourteen acres, for the term of his life. After his death it goes to
John Lukin.
All the residue of his goods, chattels, cattle and moveables after the payment of his
funeral expenses and payment of his debts and legacies.
Daughter, Mary Gainfford:= £40 to be paid to her within four years after the death of
the testator.
Grandson, Nicholas, son of Mary Gainsfford:= £10 to be paid to him at the age of
twenty one years.
Daughter, Prudence Eden:= testator says she married without his knowledge or
consent. She is to have £5 within half a year of his death , but if at any time she
comes into want or necessity then her brother Robert Lukin shall take care of her
reasonable maintenance and provision for her and her child if she will be ordered and
ruled by them.
Son, George, and daughter, Elizabeth Lukin:= they are to share equally all his
household stuff and utensils that are in his house called Parkers.
Servant, Henry Grout:= 20s. to be paid within one year after the death of the testator.
Witnesses:= the mark of Thomas Basye, the mark of John Godfrey, and Thomas
Newman. [Newman possibly wrote the will, judging by the handwriting].
Signature of Edwin Lukin.
Probate:= 17/05/1645.
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 71
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Lukin, John, yeoman, 07/10/1661, E.R.O. D/ABW 68/125.
Sick in body.
The poor of Takeley:= £3 to be distributed by his Executrix and Mr. English, [the Vicar]
Sister, Elizabeth Baysey, widow:= all his messuage or tenement called Turnerse, the
croft called Crabtreecroft of 8 acres , the croft called Furleys Field 5 acres, and 2
pieces of pasture belonging to the messuage of 2 acres, now in the occupation of
Nicholas Martin.
Cousin, Robert, son of Elizabeth Baisey:= to inherit after her death on condition that
he pays his brother William Baisey £30 within three years after the death of his mother
Elizabeth Baisey . If non payment then the legatees have the right to enter the lands
until they have their share.
Also he leaves Elizabeth Baisey his sister all the several parcels of land called Great
Downe, Sellers Downe, and Bonnes? Meadow with the Chaseway and feeding thereof
leading to Bonnes mead now in the occupation of John White or his assignes,. After
the death of Elizabeth his sister, he leaves these to her son Edward Baisey so long as
he pays his brother Thomas Baisey £40 within three years after the death of their
mother Elizabeth Baisey.
Usual proviso that they can enter land if not paid.
Also gives to his sister Elizabeth Baisey the tenement or cottage now in the
occupation of Robert Browne for her life, and then to William Baisey.
Mary ?Looking, [?Luckin], daughter of his friend John English, clerk:= 10s. to buy a
ring.
Elizabeth, wife of Gregory Newman;= 10s. to buy her a ring.
Sister,Elizabeth Baisey:= all the rest of his land, tenements, goods and chattels not
already bestowed.
Executrix:= sister, Elizabeth Baisey.
Witnesses:= Thomas Wheeler, Elizabeth Newman, Mary Aylet makes a mark.
Probate:= 07/10/1677.
[the list of clergy gives John English as coming to Takeley in 1663. There is no
mention of a daughter in English’s own will].
Page 72
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Luckin, Robert, yeoman, 18/02/1661, E.R.O. D/ABW 62/182.
Sick and weak in body.
The poor people of Takeley ;= 40s. to be paid by Executor within one month after his
death.
Sister, Prudence Eden:= the little tenement called the Schoolhouse where he dwells
with the garden belonging to it, and the two rooms in his principal messuage adjoining
called the Parlour and the Chamber over it, now in his own possession. She is to have
free liberty Ingress and Regress only for herself and her assignes from the 2 rooms at
all time and times convenient by and through the ordinary ways and passages
thereunto belonging. This is for the term of her natural life.
All his household stuff provided that she and her husband Thomas Eden have not
predeased him, in which case it goes to William Eden his nephew.
Nephew, William, son of sister Prudence Eden:= his messuage called Scapes in
Takeley Street with the tenement called the Schoolhouse, the yard, gardens and
orchards and backside .
Also his close or croft called Callyhomes with all the privileges of the Shurriers
[Sharers] and other freehold land of seven acres.
Also all his lands, tenement, meadows and pasture land which he holds for tenure or
terms of years. This is on condition that he pays his mother Prudence Eden during her
life £10 a year at the four Feasts of The blessed Virgin Mary, St John the Baptist, St
Michael the Archangell, and the Lord Christ’s Nativitie, or within five days either side of
them starting on the first Feast after his death..
Also on condition that William pays to the four sons of testator’s sister Elizabeth
Basey, that is Thomas, Edwin, Robert, and William Basey £10 each at ?27 years.
All his other goods and chattels.
Two sons of his sister …..Lostus, deceased:= Edwin, 50s. in 2 years after testator’s
death and Itchingham Lostus £5 in 3 years after his death.
If William Eden fails to pay these legacies then it all goes to Elizabeth Baysey on
condition that she makes the payments.
If Elizabeth Basey fails to make the payments then it all goes to his loving friend
William Collin, gent.
Friend, William Collin:= 10s. to buy him a ring in remembrance of him.
Executor ;= Nephew William Eden.
Probate: = 07/05/1662
[There are two houses in Takeley Street that could be this property. The most likely is
the now Street Farm, as the field called Callowhomes lies behind it].
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Page 73
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Contents
Eave, Harry, husbandman, 08/03/1609, E.R.O. D/ABW 13/207. ................................. 2
Elliet, Robert, husbandman, 13/01/1626, E.R.O. D/ABW 48/126. ................................ 3
English, John, 1703 E.R.O. E.R.O. D/ABW 82/43. ..................................................... 4
Eve, Adam, yeoman, 20/01/1726, E.R.O. D/ABW 87/1/148. ....................................... 5
Eve, Jane, widow, 29/11/1805, National Archives Prob. 11/1436. ............................... 6
Eve, John, farmer, 01/08/1791, E.R.O. D/ABW 111/1/68. ............................................ 7
Eve, Joseph, yeoman, 11/04/1750, E.R.O. D/ABW 96/3/37 ......................................... 8
Ewen, Agnes, 11/01/1571 E.R.O. M.R. 3/1/31. ............................................................ 9
Ewen, Henry, yeoman, 10/01/1613, E.R.O. D/ABW 13/241.` ..................................... 10
Ewen, Peter, husbandman, 17//04/1612, E.R.O. D/ABW 13/227. .............................. 11
Flask, John, butcher, 31/07/1805, National Archives Prob. 11/1431. ......................... 12
Flude, Johanne, widow, 06/08/1634, E.R.O. D/ABW 52/177. ..................................... 13
Freshwater, William, labourer, 05/08/1568, E.R.O. D/ABW 14/162. ........................... 14
Gardiner, William, yeoman, 30/12/1676, E.R.O. D/ABR 5/10. .................................... 15
Garrett, Robert, farmer, 13/08/1802, E.R.O. D/ABW 117/3/14. .................................. 16
Garrett, Robert, yeoman, 12/02/1849, E.R.O. D/ABW 139/2/29. ............................... 17
Gainefford, Franncis, gent, 10/01/1608, E.R.O. D/ABW 17/82. .................................. 18
Gaynfforde, Thomas, gentleman, 30/01/1609, E.R.O. D/ABW 17/93. ........................ 19
Gainsford, Marie, widow, 21/02/1655, National Archives Prob. 11/249. .................... 20
Gaynsforde, Samuel, gentleman, 07/12/1636, E.R.O. D/ABW 53/257. ...................... 21
Gibbons, John, butcher, 22/10/1681, E.R.O. D/ABW 70/142. .................................... 22
Gibbons, John, butcher, 1739, D/ABW 93/2/6 ............................................................ 23
Gibbons, Mary, widow, 26/09/1778, E.R.O. D/ABR 27/238 ....................................... 24
Gooneld, Benjamin, Clerk, 14/11/1626, National Archives, Prob.11/156. .................. 25
Green, John, carpenter, 16/10/1784, E.R.O. D/ABW 109/3/5. ................................... 26
Greene, John, carpenter, 03/11/1655, National Archives. Prob.11/288. .................... 27
Greene, George, carpenter, 27/05/1675. E.R.O. D/ABW. 67/205. ............................ 28
Gyvar, John, citizen and Ironmonger of London, 12/03/1504, National Archives Prob
11/17. ......................................................................................................................... 29
Haddesly, Edwin, single man, 28/08/1624, E.R.O. D/ABW 46/122. ........................... 32
Hadsely, Robert, yeoman, 21/07/1625, E.R.O. D/ABW 47/260. ................................. 33
Hall, Benjamin, yeoman, 23/02/1847, E.R.O. D/ABR 35/718. .................................... 34
Hall, Clement, yeoman, 24/12/1846, E.R.O. D/ABW 138/2/6. .................................... 35
Hampton, Henry, farmer, 25/02/1803, E.R.O. D/ABR 33/92....................................... 36
Hardcastle, William, carpenter, 18/05/1758, E.R.O. D/ABW 102/1/40. ...................... 37
Harvey, Richard, husbandman, 11/12/1564, E.R.O. D/ABW 3/31. ............................. 38
Heard, Daniel, 06/04/1797, E.R.O. D/ABW 114/3/49, E.R.O. D/DB T1649. 29/319. .. 39
Howe, Robert, shoemaker, 25/01/1569, E.R.O. D/ABW 18/298. ................................ 40
Howell, William, miller, 13/03/1611, E.R.O. D/ABW 20/180. ...................................... 41
Humphrey, Nathaniel, yeoman, 17/03/1736, D/ABW 92/2/9. ...................................... 42
Hutton. Walter, 08/02/1613, D/ABW 20/217. .............................................................. 43
Ingolde, John, husbandman, 21/03/1608, D/ABW 21/236. ......................................... 44
Ives, Elizabeth, widow, 25/04/1730, D/ABW 88/12/119. ............................................. 45
Judd, Annis/Agnes, widow, 02/01/1638, D/ABW/60/103. ........................................... 46
Judd, Luke, yeoman, 07/05/1714, D/ABW 83/94. ....................................................... 47
Judd, Philip, yeoman, 05/08/1713 1653/4, D/ABW 81/157. ........................................ 48
Page 74
TAKELEY LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Precis of the wills of Takeley residents. E to L
Judd, Philip, yeoman, 1770, D/AMW 17/10/13. .......................................................... 49
Judd, William, yeoman, 11/04/1738, D/ABW 93/2/86. ................................................ 50
Kendall, John, esq., of Bassingbourne Hall, 02/10.1727, National Archives, Prob.
/11/681. ...................................................................................................................... 51
Kendall, William, esquire, 30/12/1741, National Archives, Prob. 11/715. ................... 52
Kendall, William, of Bassingbourne Hall, National Archives, Prob 11/ 462. ................ 53
Kelsey, George, 7/12/1575, D/ABW 22/117. .............................................................. 54
King, Elizabeth, widow, 30/05/1769, E.R.O. D/DB T1652. ......................................... 55
King, John, miller, 1757, E.R.O. D/ABW 99/1/46. ....................................................... 56
King, Thomas, 01/03/1587, D/ABW/22/155. ............................................................... 57
Knight, John, farmer of Bambrous [Bambers] Green, 28/10/1825, E.R.O. D/ABW
129/1/73. .................................................................................................................... 58
Knight, Simon, butcher. 26/09/1720. E.R.O. D/ABW 105/1/69. .................................. 59
Lambert, Thomas, tailor, 1740, E.R.O. D/ABW 93/2/23. ............................................ 60
Lammas, John, blacksmith, 18/04/1728, E.R.O. D/ABW 84/3/50. .............................. 61
Lammas, Susanna, 27/12/1729, National Archives Prob. 11/656. ............................ 62
Lane, Richard, taylor, 04/11/1650, E.R.O. D/ABW 62/117. ........................................ 63
Laver, George, yeoman, 13/08/1632, E.R.O. D/ABW 51/54....................................... 64
Laver, Ales, widow, 10/09/1618, E.R.O. D/ABW 24/194. ........................................... 65
Laver, John the elder, yeoman, 13/10/1665, E.R.O. D/ABW 66/203. ......................... 66
Laver, John the elder, 03/05/1585, E.R.O. D/ABW 23/242......................................... 67
Laver, John the elder, husbandman. 10/10/1627. D/ABW 54/28. ............................... 68
Linsell, Elizabeth, widow, 28/04/1848, E.R.O. D/ABW 139/1/66. ............................... 69
Lorkyn, William, 20/01/1545, E.R.O. D/ABW 23/46. ................................................... 70
Lukin, Edwin, 27/07/1640, E.R.O. D/ABW 58/170. ..................................................... 71
Lukin, John, yeoman, 07/10/1661, E.R.O. D/ABW 68/125. ........................................ 72
Luckin, Robert, yeoman, 18/02/1661, E.R.O. D/ABW 62/182. ................................... 73
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