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The Common Room / Re: Wilford, Wilforde, Wylford, Wilsford, Wyllesford, Willesford
« on: Tuesday 28 November 23 14:26 GMT (UK) »
Further to my previous post, herewith the third attachment
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The Common Room / Re: Wilford, Wilforde, Wylford, Wilsford, Wyllesford, Willesford
« on: Tuesday 28 November 23 14:25 GMT (UK) »
1. Speculation, as there is no specific record. However Robert died aged c.71, 9 Nov 1476 (IPM), while Joan died 20 Oct 1513 (IPM) some 37 years later, very much suggesting a considerable age difference. Note also the “terminology” in Joan’s 2 IPMs which does not appear to reflect a grandmother/grandson relationship with William senior’s son, Peter (although these are official documents). Add to this the fairly clear indications, from surviving documentation (little in Devon, -note the 1490 deeds- but more re James and the London/Kent branches), that son William senior, was “differenced” to Robert’s other children (as per Robert’s Will) – note that daughter Julia, who married, as his 1st wife, John Kelly/Kelvelegh, had died by 1476. The various Visitations, London and Kent, virtually ignore the branch of William senior (unfortunately the Devon branch was extinct by the time of the earliest Devon Visitations). John Faringdon’s 1515 IPM does record William senior as a trustee, but he was in Devon, and the record of the 1551/53 Chancery Action between Thomas of Hartridge and Peter of Oxton merely states that they are grandsons of Robert.
2. Essentially nothing, apart from that recorded in Alice Lovecock’s grant 1375 (RTDA 1912, 44, p.511), see attached extract from my paper.
3. Unfortunately cannot readily find the source for 7 Jul 1396. The date is precise so doubtless relates to a specific document. I’ll keep searching.
4. I suspect that there is potential for either conflation or the fact that Robert’s widow was Elizabeth and William’s first wife also appears to have been Elizabeth (daughter of Walter Pollard). I have only seen partial printed transcripts of the D&C entries (which appear to overlap) and speculate that “Elsote” is a diminution/abbreviation “Elsbt”? in the original. There could well have been two “Elsote-s”, and further research into the chronology of these entries would I think be worthwhile.
5. As you have found, there are few records relating to John F. I attach two (self-explanatory) files on what I have re his immediate history/Wilford connection. I have additionally quite a bit of research on John and Elizabeth’s children and their marriages – Christopher, Charles (Stukeley, Walrond,plus children), Mary (Wadham, plus children), Margaret (Barnes, Dunch), Grace (Paget, Sharington).
I would be happy to email my research to you (to enable you to pick through it at leisure) should you contact me direct via the Rootschat system.
2. Essentially nothing, apart from that recorded in Alice Lovecock’s grant 1375 (RTDA 1912, 44, p.511), see attached extract from my paper.
3. Unfortunately cannot readily find the source for 7 Jul 1396. The date is precise so doubtless relates to a specific document. I’ll keep searching.
4. I suspect that there is potential for either conflation or the fact that Robert’s widow was Elizabeth and William’s first wife also appears to have been Elizabeth (daughter of Walter Pollard). I have only seen partial printed transcripts of the D&C entries (which appear to overlap) and speculate that “Elsote” is a diminution/abbreviation “Elsbt”? in the original. There could well have been two “Elsote-s”, and further research into the chronology of these entries would I think be worthwhile.
5. As you have found, there are few records relating to John F. I attach two (self-explanatory) files on what I have re his immediate history/Wilford connection. I have additionally quite a bit of research on John and Elizabeth’s children and their marriages – Christopher, Charles (Stukeley, Walrond,plus children), Mary (Wadham, plus children), Margaret (Barnes, Dunch), Grace (Paget, Sharington).
I would be happy to email my research to you (to enable you to pick through it at leisure) should you contact me direct via the Rootschat system.
3
The Common Room / Re: Wilford, Wilforde, Wylford, Wilsford, Wyllesford, Willesford
« on: Monday 27 November 23 09:41 GMT (UK) »
Re my previous post regarding Wills of Robert and William Wilford. Have just noted that the resolution of my attachment was poor. I attach a better resolution.
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The Common Room / Re: Wilford, Wilforde, Wylford, Wilsford, Wyllesford, Willesford
« on: Sunday 26 November 23 17:15 GMT (UK) »
While on the topic of Wilford Wills, the following provides information in respect of those of Robert Wilford 1396, and and his son William Wilford 1413. Copies of the Wills are attached:
Robert Wilford citizen of Exeter died between 7 July and 28 August 1396 on which date “William Wilford, son of Robert Wilford” was made a Freeman of Exeter “by succession”. Robert’s Will was enrolled into the Exeter “Mayor’s Court Roll” during the mayoralty of John Talbot (8 January 1396/7 MCR 20/21 Ric II m.17). This enrollment, which requires a full translation, see right and Appendix, does not appear to be the complete Will nor is it specifically dated. However it records that he left one third of his estate to be sold for prayers for his soul, another third to his wife and a third to his son William, who was to receive his mother’s share at her death (sometime between 1399 and 1404, most probably the former, see below); Robert provided for masses for the souls of himself, his wife Elizabeth, his father and mother, Sir Hugh Courtenay (2nd Earl of Devon) and his wife Margaret and their son William Courtenay Archbishop of Canterbury (died 1396), Sir Henry Slakborn, Sir William Somaster, R…Westcote. Robert’s executors were his wife Elizabeth, son William Wilford, Master John Westcote, John Lusquyt Rector of the church of St Kerian (who died by 14 Dec 1398), Henry Hull (his step-son and apprentice), John Wilford (his apprentice & apparently illegitimate son), John Lake. The Accounts of the Earl of Devon for 1396/7 record: “The feoffees (executors) of Robert Wyllefford for the performance of his Will: 35s” (D&C Rec Soc. 1977 vol.22/24). Robert was buried in Exeter Cathedral (where the last major rebuilding phase, being most of the Nave and the West End, had been completed by the 1370’s). The archives of the Dean and Chapter of Exeter Cathedral record that the Bells of the Cathedral were rung for him in Christmas Term 1396/7 and a sum of 20s. was paid to the Cathedral between Michaelmas 1397 and Michaelmas 1398 for stone for his tomb (D&C 2657). The archives further record that a sum of £2 was paid to the Cathedral by his widow Elizabeth Wilford between Michaelmas 1397 and Michaelmas 1398 for her tomb and for permission to be buried in the Cathedral with her husband. Elizabeth appears to have continued aspects of his business, and as “Elsota Wilforth” is recorded, together with Henry Hull, Peter Stret/Sturt, William and John Wilford, among the most important cloth merchants in Exeter in the Aulnager’s Returns at the turn of the 14/15th century. She appears to have died in 1399 and the Cathedral Bells were rung for her in that year (D&C 3773, f70r).
William Wilforde citizen of Exeter had died by 19 July 1413, (Izacke states 11 July 1413) during his 1412/13 Mayoralty, when it was recorded that Henry Hull (his half brother, who had been Mayor 1403) had taken over the office mid-term. A section of his Will was enrolled into the Exeter Mayor’s Court Roll during the mayoralty of Peter Sturte (c.9 July 1414, - MCR 1/2 H.V m.41), see right and Appendix which requires a full translation. This duplicates much of that recorded in Stafford’s Register, and provides more information than the Will of his father. It records, inter alia, that he commended his body to be buried in Exeter Cathedral or its churchyard. The settings of the various Candles and Torches reflecting property interests resulting from his marriage with Margaret Cornu, the widow Cruwys. To his daughter Elizabeth for her life, he left the reversion of a tenement in the north suburb of Exeter, which once belonged to Robert le Noble and had passed to William’s wife Margaret. (Robert le Noble had been Receiver of Exeter, and Mayor in 1349, 1357 and 1358. In 1355 he was recorded holding property at “Fysshfoldesyate” ie Broadgate). William bequeathed to his half-brother William Hull and to his son-in-law John Parker all his half share in a ship or barge called “le Marie de Exemoth”. He bequeathed a jewel worth 4 marks to his half-brother John Wilford. To Margaret his wife and Robert his son (when the latter should come of age) he left in equal shares all his household utensils belonging to the chamber, hall, pantry, kitchen, and buttery, for daily use; the silver cups, salt cellars, spoons, and other silver plate, to be divided in equal portions, according to custom “between my wife and my said son Robert”. Executors were his wife Margaret, Thomas Reymond (lawyer, JP, Recorder of Exeter 1382-1396, sheriff of Exeter, and Commissioner), Henry Hull “Testator’s brother”, and Peter Sturt; with John Westecote (the cleric who had been an executor of the Will of William’s father) as Overseer. The Will was Proved 2 October 1413 at St Petrock’s Church, and certified 3 October 1413 by the Bishop at Clyst. The value of his goods was £228 6s 9d. William’s widow Margaret is understood to have died by 1421.
Robert Wilford citizen of Exeter died between 7 July and 28 August 1396 on which date “William Wilford, son of Robert Wilford” was made a Freeman of Exeter “by succession”. Robert’s Will was enrolled into the Exeter “Mayor’s Court Roll” during the mayoralty of John Talbot (8 January 1396/7 MCR 20/21 Ric II m.17). This enrollment, which requires a full translation, see right and Appendix, does not appear to be the complete Will nor is it specifically dated. However it records that he left one third of his estate to be sold for prayers for his soul, another third to his wife and a third to his son William, who was to receive his mother’s share at her death (sometime between 1399 and 1404, most probably the former, see below); Robert provided for masses for the souls of himself, his wife Elizabeth, his father and mother, Sir Hugh Courtenay (2nd Earl of Devon) and his wife Margaret and their son William Courtenay Archbishop of Canterbury (died 1396), Sir Henry Slakborn, Sir William Somaster, R…Westcote. Robert’s executors were his wife Elizabeth, son William Wilford, Master John Westcote, John Lusquyt Rector of the church of St Kerian (who died by 14 Dec 1398), Henry Hull (his step-son and apprentice), John Wilford (his apprentice & apparently illegitimate son), John Lake. The Accounts of the Earl of Devon for 1396/7 record: “The feoffees (executors) of Robert Wyllefford for the performance of his Will: 35s” (D&C Rec Soc. 1977 vol.22/24). Robert was buried in Exeter Cathedral (where the last major rebuilding phase, being most of the Nave and the West End, had been completed by the 1370’s). The archives of the Dean and Chapter of Exeter Cathedral record that the Bells of the Cathedral were rung for him in Christmas Term 1396/7 and a sum of 20s. was paid to the Cathedral between Michaelmas 1397 and Michaelmas 1398 for stone for his tomb (D&C 2657). The archives further record that a sum of £2 was paid to the Cathedral by his widow Elizabeth Wilford between Michaelmas 1397 and Michaelmas 1398 for her tomb and for permission to be buried in the Cathedral with her husband. Elizabeth appears to have continued aspects of his business, and as “Elsota Wilforth” is recorded, together with Henry Hull, Peter Stret/Sturt, William and John Wilford, among the most important cloth merchants in Exeter in the Aulnager’s Returns at the turn of the 14/15th century. She appears to have died in 1399 and the Cathedral Bells were rung for her in that year (D&C 3773, f70r).
William Wilforde citizen of Exeter had died by 19 July 1413, (Izacke states 11 July 1413) during his 1412/13 Mayoralty, when it was recorded that Henry Hull (his half brother, who had been Mayor 1403) had taken over the office mid-term. A section of his Will was enrolled into the Exeter Mayor’s Court Roll during the mayoralty of Peter Sturte (c.9 July 1414, - MCR 1/2 H.V m.41), see right and Appendix which requires a full translation. This duplicates much of that recorded in Stafford’s Register, and provides more information than the Will of his father. It records, inter alia, that he commended his body to be buried in Exeter Cathedral or its churchyard. The settings of the various Candles and Torches reflecting property interests resulting from his marriage with Margaret Cornu, the widow Cruwys. To his daughter Elizabeth for her life, he left the reversion of a tenement in the north suburb of Exeter, which once belonged to Robert le Noble and had passed to William’s wife Margaret. (Robert le Noble had been Receiver of Exeter, and Mayor in 1349, 1357 and 1358. In 1355 he was recorded holding property at “Fysshfoldesyate” ie Broadgate). William bequeathed to his half-brother William Hull and to his son-in-law John Parker all his half share in a ship or barge called “le Marie de Exemoth”. He bequeathed a jewel worth 4 marks to his half-brother John Wilford. To Margaret his wife and Robert his son (when the latter should come of age) he left in equal shares all his household utensils belonging to the chamber, hall, pantry, kitchen, and buttery, for daily use; the silver cups, salt cellars, spoons, and other silver plate, to be divided in equal portions, according to custom “between my wife and my said son Robert”. Executors were his wife Margaret, Thomas Reymond (lawyer, JP, Recorder of Exeter 1382-1396, sheriff of Exeter, and Commissioner), Henry Hull “Testator’s brother”, and Peter Sturt; with John Westecote (the cleric who had been an executor of the Will of William’s father) as Overseer. The Will was Proved 2 October 1413 at St Petrock’s Church, and certified 3 October 1413 by the Bishop at Clyst. The value of his goods was £228 6s 9d. William’s widow Margaret is understood to have died by 1421.
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The Common Room / Re: Wilford, Wilforde, Wylford, Wilsford, Wyllesford, Willesford
« on: Sunday 26 November 23 14:59 GMT (UK) »
Joan's second IPM:
On 30 June 18 HVIII (1526) a “Writ of Melius Sciri” (for better knowledge) was issued at Westminster to the King’s Escheator in Devon, refering to the Inquisition taken by John Gylbert of Johannes Wylford widow who died seized in her demesne of land and tenements in Stowford and Comblauncells in the Hundreds of Southmolton and Credyton, and instructing him to make further enquiry. This was duly effected at Exeter 23 October 1526. The Jurors’ statement is virtually identical word for word with the earlier IPM however with the clarification that Joan held Stowford and Comblauncells for 20 years from 20 May 4 HVIII (1512) by the demise of Peter Wylford. In this regard it should be noted that Peter’s father, William Wilford, died 11 January 1511/12, see later. Given the date of this second IPM it may well have some connection with the marriage of Peter Wilford’s daughter and heir, Joan, to Jasper Horsey, see later, and was required to clarify specific ownership of the properties:
“Devon. Inquisition taken at Exeter 23 October 18 Henry VIII (1526) before John Kayleway arm, escheator, by the oath of Henry Denys arm, John Calwoodlegh arm, Rich. Martyn arm, John Bydwill arm, Edward Speccote, John Sampford, Thos. Pomfreyt, Will. Peryham, Thos. Hogge, John Bear, Rich. Millond, Rich. Cole, and Philip Howe; who say that Johanna Wylfford widow at the time of her death was possessed of four messuages 40 acres of land 50 acres of pasture 10 acres of meadow and 100 acres of heath and furze, with their appurtenances, in Stowford and Comblauncells in the Hundreds of South Molton and Crediton in Devon for 20 years from 20 May 4 HenryVIII (1512), by the demise and concession of Peter Wylford who held of the Lord the King as of the honour of Bradnynche part of the Duchy of Cornwall by 1 knight’s fee; worth by the year clear 100s 10d. Also two messuages 200 acres of land 8 acres of meadow 4 acres of wood and 100 acres of heath and furze, with their appurtenances, in Oxton in the same County held of the Lord of Westmorland as of his manor and lordship of Kenton in free socage by 2s rent; worth by the year clear 40s. The said Joan held the premises in her demesne as of the tenement by demise of Henry Webber and Nicholas Pyne with remainder to the right heirs of Robert Willesford. That remainder belongs to Peter Willesford son of William son of the said Robert deceased.
Joan Wylfford died 20 October 5 HVIII (1513).
On 30 June 18 HVIII (1526) a “Writ of Melius Sciri” (for better knowledge) was issued at Westminster to the King’s Escheator in Devon, refering to the Inquisition taken by John Gylbert of Johannes Wylford widow who died seized in her demesne of land and tenements in Stowford and Comblauncells in the Hundreds of Southmolton and Credyton, and instructing him to make further enquiry. This was duly effected at Exeter 23 October 1526. The Jurors’ statement is virtually identical word for word with the earlier IPM however with the clarification that Joan held Stowford and Comblauncells for 20 years from 20 May 4 HVIII (1512) by the demise of Peter Wylford. In this regard it should be noted that Peter’s father, William Wilford, died 11 January 1511/12, see later. Given the date of this second IPM it may well have some connection with the marriage of Peter Wilford’s daughter and heir, Joan, to Jasper Horsey, see later, and was required to clarify specific ownership of the properties:
“Devon. Inquisition taken at Exeter 23 October 18 Henry VIII (1526) before John Kayleway arm, escheator, by the oath of Henry Denys arm, John Calwoodlegh arm, Rich. Martyn arm, John Bydwill arm, Edward Speccote, John Sampford, Thos. Pomfreyt, Will. Peryham, Thos. Hogge, John Bear, Rich. Millond, Rich. Cole, and Philip Howe; who say that Johanna Wylfford widow at the time of her death was possessed of four messuages 40 acres of land 50 acres of pasture 10 acres of meadow and 100 acres of heath and furze, with their appurtenances, in Stowford and Comblauncells in the Hundreds of South Molton and Crediton in Devon for 20 years from 20 May 4 HenryVIII (1512), by the demise and concession of Peter Wylford who held of the Lord the King as of the honour of Bradnynche part of the Duchy of Cornwall by 1 knight’s fee; worth by the year clear 100s 10d. Also two messuages 200 acres of land 8 acres of meadow 4 acres of wood and 100 acres of heath and furze, with their appurtenances, in Oxton in the same County held of the Lord of Westmorland as of his manor and lordship of Kenton in free socage by 2s rent; worth by the year clear 40s. The said Joan held the premises in her demesne as of the tenement by demise of Henry Webber and Nicholas Pyne with remainder to the right heirs of Robert Willesford. That remainder belongs to Peter Willesford son of William son of the said Robert deceased.
Joan Wylfford died 20 October 5 HVIII (1513).
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The Common Room / Re: Wilford, Wilforde, Wylford, Wilsford, Wyllesford, Willesford
« on: Sunday 26 November 23 14:57 GMT (UK) »
Robert's second wife was Joan (surname unknown). I append details of his IPM as well as the two IPMs of his widow Joan:
The record of the Inquisition Post Mortem of Robert Willesford has survived. Unfortunately much of it is very worn and virtually impossible to decipher without advanced technology (TNA: C 140/57/57). The Inquisition was held at “Criditon in the county of Devon” on 19 January 1476/7, however while the document appears to provide some detail with regard to Robert’s property holdings, such as land areas and values, this cannot be deciphered completely at presently:
“Devon. Inquisition taken at Criditon (Crediton) 19 January 1476/7 before John Thornbury escheator; by the oath of John Handtcote, John Keton jun., Richard Bydwyll, Will. Bowdon of Stoke, John Lettin, Robert F…., Wil….., Will. Tremayn, Robt. Seman, Thos. Newhall, Rich. Toker and Rich. Balle; who say that Robert Willesford esq., at the time of his death was seised in his demesne of ……messuages and lands in Estowford, Westowford, four messuages 30 acres of land with their appurtenances in Comblauncells, Sacampton (Saghaton) and Frogemere, held of the Duchy of Cornwall as of the honour of Braddynishe by 1/5 of a knight’s fee; worth by the year clear 100s 10d. A messuage in Crydyton held of John, Bishop of Exeter, by 12d rent and fealty worth by the year clear 20d, two messuages 20 acres of land 40 acres of heath and furze with their appurtenances in Oxton in the said County, held of James earl of D(ouglas)., in right of his wife of the manor of Kenton by rent of (5s)., worth by the year clear 40s.
By Charter dated 9 October 14 Edw IV (1474) Robert Willesford granted the same to Walter Wyndsore clerk, ……, Thos. Dourissh, John Denys, Nicholas Pyne, William Carew/Cornew?, Tristram Pyne and John Whitechurche clerk, for the life of Joan wife of the said Robert Willesford the said Joan is yet living.
And further the said Jurors state that Robert Willesford was seised of … messuages and lands with their appurtenances in Filham held of John ……., of his manor of Ugbourgh by 12s rent and fealty worth by the year clear 20s. …. messuages and … acres of land with appurtenances in Penyton and Cotelford held of the Abbot of Buckfast by 3s rent and fealty worth by the year clear 40s., one messuage 24 acres of land with appurtenances in Tegnmouth held of John Bishop of Exeter, in free socage by 1d rent worth by the year clear 2s., ….messuages and lands with all appurtenances in Daulysshe and Esteyate (esteignmouth) held of the Dean and Chapter of Exeter by fealty worth by the year clear 10s.
By Charter dated 12 October 13 Edw IV (1473) Robert Willesford granted the same to John Hacche, Michell Denys and Tristram Pyne and their heirs for ever.
Robert Willesford died 9 November 1476. William Willesford aged 25 years and more is his son and next heir.
Delivered into the Court 9 February 1476/7 by…………”
The record of the Inquisition Post Mortem of Johne Wilfford widow has been preserved at the National Archives (Ref: C 142/29/71):
“Devon. Inquisition taken at Exeter 29 July 6 Henry VIII (1514) before John Gilberte, escheator by the oath of John Acland, Will. Wekys (Wike) of Cokyntree (Cocktree, in Wonford Hundred), John Drake, Will. Sommaister, Robert Kensey, Ralph Kyngston, Thos. Garland, Richard Seynthyll, John Carsewyll, Edward Fursse, John Fursse of Yarnescomb, John Stephyns, John Browne, Vincent Maynard and Roger Rous; who say that Joan Wylfford widow at the time of her death was seised of four messuages 40 acres of land 50 acres of pasture 10 acres of meadow and 100 acres of heath and furze, with their appurtenances, in Stowford and Comblauncells in the Hundreds of South Molton and Crediton in Devon held of the Lord the King as of the honour of Bradnynche part of the Duchy of Cornwall by 1 knight’s fee; worth by the year clear 100s 10d. Also two messuages 200 acres of land 8 acres of meadow 4 acres of wood and 100 acres of heath and furze, with their appurtenances, in Oxton in the same County held of the Lord of Westmorland as of his manor and lordship of Kenton in free socage by 2s rent; worth by the year clear 40s. The said Joan held the premises in her demesne as of free tenement by demise of Henry Webber and Nicholas Pyne with remainder to the right heirs of Robert Wilfford. That remainder belongs to Peter Wilfford son of William son of the said Robert deceased.
Joan Wylfford died 20 October 5 HVIII (1513).
Peter Wilfford aforesaid is kinsman and next heir of Robert Wilfford, namely the son of William Wilfford who was the son of the said Robert, and is aged 26 years and more.
Delivered into Court 9 August 6 HVIII (1514) by John Wolcote”.
The record of the Inquisition Post Mortem of Robert Willesford has survived. Unfortunately much of it is very worn and virtually impossible to decipher without advanced technology (TNA: C 140/57/57). The Inquisition was held at “Criditon in the county of Devon” on 19 January 1476/7, however while the document appears to provide some detail with regard to Robert’s property holdings, such as land areas and values, this cannot be deciphered completely at presently:
“Devon. Inquisition taken at Criditon (Crediton) 19 January 1476/7 before John Thornbury escheator; by the oath of John Handtcote, John Keton jun., Richard Bydwyll, Will. Bowdon of Stoke, John Lettin, Robert F…., Wil….., Will. Tremayn, Robt. Seman, Thos. Newhall, Rich. Toker and Rich. Balle; who say that Robert Willesford esq., at the time of his death was seised in his demesne of ……messuages and lands in Estowford, Westowford, four messuages 30 acres of land with their appurtenances in Comblauncells, Sacampton (Saghaton) and Frogemere, held of the Duchy of Cornwall as of the honour of Braddynishe by 1/5 of a knight’s fee; worth by the year clear 100s 10d. A messuage in Crydyton held of John, Bishop of Exeter, by 12d rent and fealty worth by the year clear 20d, two messuages 20 acres of land 40 acres of heath and furze with their appurtenances in Oxton in the said County, held of James earl of D(ouglas)., in right of his wife of the manor of Kenton by rent of (5s)., worth by the year clear 40s.
By Charter dated 9 October 14 Edw IV (1474) Robert Willesford granted the same to Walter Wyndsore clerk, ……, Thos. Dourissh, John Denys, Nicholas Pyne, William Carew/Cornew?, Tristram Pyne and John Whitechurche clerk, for the life of Joan wife of the said Robert Willesford the said Joan is yet living.
And further the said Jurors state that Robert Willesford was seised of … messuages and lands with their appurtenances in Filham held of John ……., of his manor of Ugbourgh by 12s rent and fealty worth by the year clear 20s. …. messuages and … acres of land with appurtenances in Penyton and Cotelford held of the Abbot of Buckfast by 3s rent and fealty worth by the year clear 40s., one messuage 24 acres of land with appurtenances in Tegnmouth held of John Bishop of Exeter, in free socage by 1d rent worth by the year clear 2s., ….messuages and lands with all appurtenances in Daulysshe and Esteyate (esteignmouth) held of the Dean and Chapter of Exeter by fealty worth by the year clear 10s.
By Charter dated 12 October 13 Edw IV (1473) Robert Willesford granted the same to John Hacche, Michell Denys and Tristram Pyne and their heirs for ever.
Robert Willesford died 9 November 1476. William Willesford aged 25 years and more is his son and next heir.
Delivered into the Court 9 February 1476/7 by…………”
The record of the Inquisition Post Mortem of Johne Wilfford widow has been preserved at the National Archives (Ref: C 142/29/71):
“Devon. Inquisition taken at Exeter 29 July 6 Henry VIII (1514) before John Gilberte, escheator by the oath of John Acland, Will. Wekys (Wike) of Cokyntree (Cocktree, in Wonford Hundred), John Drake, Will. Sommaister, Robert Kensey, Ralph Kyngston, Thos. Garland, Richard Seynthyll, John Carsewyll, Edward Fursse, John Fursse of Yarnescomb, John Stephyns, John Browne, Vincent Maynard and Roger Rous; who say that Joan Wylfford widow at the time of her death was seised of four messuages 40 acres of land 50 acres of pasture 10 acres of meadow and 100 acres of heath and furze, with their appurtenances, in Stowford and Comblauncells in the Hundreds of South Molton and Crediton in Devon held of the Lord the King as of the honour of Bradnynche part of the Duchy of Cornwall by 1 knight’s fee; worth by the year clear 100s 10d. Also two messuages 200 acres of land 8 acres of meadow 4 acres of wood and 100 acres of heath and furze, with their appurtenances, in Oxton in the same County held of the Lord of Westmorland as of his manor and lordship of Kenton in free socage by 2s rent; worth by the year clear 40s. The said Joan held the premises in her demesne as of free tenement by demise of Henry Webber and Nicholas Pyne with remainder to the right heirs of Robert Wilfford. That remainder belongs to Peter Wilfford son of William son of the said Robert deceased.
Joan Wylfford died 20 October 5 HVIII (1513).
Peter Wilfford aforesaid is kinsman and next heir of Robert Wilfford, namely the son of William Wilfford who was the son of the said Robert, and is aged 26 years and more.
Delivered into Court 9 August 6 HVIII (1514) by John Wolcote”.
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The Common Room / Re: Wilford, Wilforde, Wylford, Wilsford, Wyllesford, Willesford
« on: Sunday 26 November 23 14:41 GMT (UK) »
Regarding the Wilford arms: the Will written in English, of William Wiford (senior) of Exeter 31 Dec 1511 displays the leopard faces "en-face" (DRO:ED/M/980), see attached
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The Common Room / Re: Wilford, Wilforde, Wylford, Wilsford, Wyllesford, Willesford
« on: Sunday 26 November 23 14:30 GMT (UK) »
Many thanks for the translation. I attach what I have on son Robert, which also ties him to brother James the Alderman of London:
Robert Willesford, clerk (holy orders), recorded prominently in his father’s 1476 Will. Regretably no armorial relating to him appears to have survived, which would otherwise have carried a Crescent mark of Cadency indicating the second son (see example right). The 1552 Essex Visitations record him as fourth son, however his father’s Will appears to contradict this. Born c.1455 no records relating to his early career have been found and it remains a speculative hypothesis that he may have held a junior position in the Cathedral hierarchy, and remained in Devon. As “Robert Wylsford” he was admitted Rector of St Mary’s, Upton Pyne 24 March 1498/9 on the death of the previous incumbent John Tanbrette, by Patent of William Larder, gent., (Ecclesiastical Antiquities of Devon, George Oliver, 1840). He is recorded in an action dated between 1504-1515 at the Court of Chancery before William Warham Archbishop of Canterbury, Lord Chancellor, (Ref: C 1/373/26):
“Robert Willesford, clerk v. The mayor of Exeter: Action of account by Richard Faux, of Exeter, to compel the withdrawal of one of debt against him by complainant’s brother James, alderman of London. Certiorari.: Devon”.
Richard Faux appears to have been a senior member of “The Worshipful Company of Weavers, Fullers and Shearmen of Exeter”, was one of the Bailiffs of Exeter in 1523, and in 1525 “The Farm of weapons (here forfeited for breaking the King’s Peace) was divised to Richard Faux” (Memorials of Exeter, Izacke 1649/1731). Richard is recorded in the Will of John Whiddon of St Olave’s, Exeter, (3 March 1525) and appears to have been an Executor for a number of persons associated with the Company (eg that of Alice Kensey widow of Robert Kynsey). He was still a member of the Exeter Corporation 24 December 1531 (DRO: 332A/PF11).
“Dom. Robert Wylsfford, clerk Rector of Upton Pyne” was appointed a Supervisor of the Will written 8 July 1516 of his sister Elizabeth Faringdon, see later, and had died before 3 May 1527 when Peter Mainwaring succeeded to the Rectorship of Upton Pyne by Patent of Philip Champernoune Esq., who had been impowered this time to present by Sir Thomas Denys, Knight, Richard Lyster and Philip Fulford Esqrs., Henry Ridlake clerk, and John Thomas, as Feoffees of the estate of the late Edmund Larder Esq., by assignment dated 12 February 1521/2.
Robert Willesford, clerk (holy orders), recorded prominently in his father’s 1476 Will. Regretably no armorial relating to him appears to have survived, which would otherwise have carried a Crescent mark of Cadency indicating the second son (see example right). The 1552 Essex Visitations record him as fourth son, however his father’s Will appears to contradict this. Born c.1455 no records relating to his early career have been found and it remains a speculative hypothesis that he may have held a junior position in the Cathedral hierarchy, and remained in Devon. As “Robert Wylsford” he was admitted Rector of St Mary’s, Upton Pyne 24 March 1498/9 on the death of the previous incumbent John Tanbrette, by Patent of William Larder, gent., (Ecclesiastical Antiquities of Devon, George Oliver, 1840). He is recorded in an action dated between 1504-1515 at the Court of Chancery before William Warham Archbishop of Canterbury, Lord Chancellor, (Ref: C 1/373/26):
“Robert Willesford, clerk v. The mayor of Exeter: Action of account by Richard Faux, of Exeter, to compel the withdrawal of one of debt against him by complainant’s brother James, alderman of London. Certiorari.: Devon”.
Richard Faux appears to have been a senior member of “The Worshipful Company of Weavers, Fullers and Shearmen of Exeter”, was one of the Bailiffs of Exeter in 1523, and in 1525 “The Farm of weapons (here forfeited for breaking the King’s Peace) was divised to Richard Faux” (Memorials of Exeter, Izacke 1649/1731). Richard is recorded in the Will of John Whiddon of St Olave’s, Exeter, (3 March 1525) and appears to have been an Executor for a number of persons associated with the Company (eg that of Alice Kensey widow of Robert Kynsey). He was still a member of the Exeter Corporation 24 December 1531 (DRO: 332A/PF11).
“Dom. Robert Wylsfford, clerk Rector of Upton Pyne” was appointed a Supervisor of the Will written 8 July 1516 of his sister Elizabeth Faringdon, see later, and had died before 3 May 1527 when Peter Mainwaring succeeded to the Rectorship of Upton Pyne by Patent of Philip Champernoune Esq., who had been impowered this time to present by Sir Thomas Denys, Knight, Richard Lyster and Philip Fulford Esqrs., Henry Ridlake clerk, and John Thomas, as Feoffees of the estate of the late Edmund Larder Esq., by assignment dated 12 February 1521/2.
9
The Common Room / Re: Wilford, Wilforde, Wylford, Wilsford, Wyllesford, Willesford
« on: Tuesday 21 November 23 15:38 GMT (UK) »
I append a couple of extracts, from my research, relating to Elizabeth and John Farringdon, which may provide further interest. Her Will still requires a full translation:
In 1513 John Faryngdon was appointed an Escheator to the Crown for Devon and Cornwall, and the Compotus Returns record that he acted as Escheator on 4 IPMS held 1513/14. John Farringdon died 7 October 1515, and his IPM was taken at Newton Abbot 31 October 1515, which records his brothers-in-law William Wilford I of Exeter, James Wilford, and William Wilford II of London:
“Before William Gybbes, esq., Escheator; by the oath of John Wulston, Robert Pomeray, John Raynold, John Forde, Nicholas Parker, Thomas Ca.., John Carypynter, William Sachevill, William Nek, Thomas Coke, Thomas Abram, Nicholas Jane and William Tobyn: Who say that John Faringdon, esq., was seised of the manors of Faringdon and Orway, and 47 acres in Rockebeare, in his demesne as of fee. By charter dated 4 September 1510 he granted the same to John Kirkham, knt., Will Wilford senior, James Wilford, Nicholas Kirkham junior, Edmund Larder, Gilbert Seyntclere, William Wilford junior, Robt Alway, Rich Duke, and Charles Hoppyng, to fulfil his last Will. Faringdon is held of the heirs of John Tredirff, in free socage; worth by the year, clear, 10 marks. Orway is held of the lord of Audley in free socage; worth by the year, clear, 10 marks. Rockebeare is held of the Abbess of Canonleigh, by fealty; worth by the year, clear, 20s. Charles is his son and heir aged 15”. (TNA: C142/30/131 & E150/155/1).
“Elizabeth Faryngdon widow of John Faryngdon esq” wrote her Will 8 July 1516, and it was enrolled into the Exeter Mayor’s Court Roll during the mayoralty of Thomas Hunt (c. 8 July 1517 MCR 8/9 HVIII, m.36) see right and Appendix which requires a full translation. It records, inter alia, her request that her body was to be buried in her tomb in the Chancel of the parish church of St Petrock’s, Farringdon, where the Rector is to be paid 6s 8d for the burial; pious bequests are made to the chapel of the Blessed Virgin Mary at Farringdon church and to the churches of St Mary at Aylesbeare and Clyst St George; to “John Wadham son and heir apparent of William Wadham of Caterston, Dorset, esq, and Mary his wife a daughter and coheir of me”, property in the City of Exeter “legacy of my father Robert Wylfford” except a tenement called “Our Lady at the Corner” situated in North street adjacent to Waterbeare Street to the south, occupied by John Scose/Scoose; to Margaret Faryngdon, another daughter, all that tenement called “Our Lady at the Corner”, occupied by William Ducke; property in the City of Exeter to Charles Faryngdon “my son”, who is appointed executor. John Wadham and Dom. Robert Wylsfford, clerk Rector of Upton Pyne, appointed Supervisors. The three properties at Waterbeare Street are doubtless those recorded in the 3 June 1490 Grant of the Executors of Elizabeth’s father, Robert Wilford (“Studies in Rom & Med Arch of Exeter”, Rippon, 2021), and recorded later by Hooker in his 1575 “Description of the Citie of Excester”: “The heyres of Robt Wylfford for the lands in Waterberestrete xvjd”, see also George Horsey later. In 1529/30 John Wadham still held at least one of the Waterbeer Street properties. Dom. Robert Wylsfford was Elizabeth’s brother, see earlier.
In 1513 John Faryngdon was appointed an Escheator to the Crown for Devon and Cornwall, and the Compotus Returns record that he acted as Escheator on 4 IPMS held 1513/14. John Farringdon died 7 October 1515, and his IPM was taken at Newton Abbot 31 October 1515, which records his brothers-in-law William Wilford I of Exeter, James Wilford, and William Wilford II of London:
“Before William Gybbes, esq., Escheator; by the oath of John Wulston, Robert Pomeray, John Raynold, John Forde, Nicholas Parker, Thomas Ca.., John Carypynter, William Sachevill, William Nek, Thomas Coke, Thomas Abram, Nicholas Jane and William Tobyn: Who say that John Faringdon, esq., was seised of the manors of Faringdon and Orway, and 47 acres in Rockebeare, in his demesne as of fee. By charter dated 4 September 1510 he granted the same to John Kirkham, knt., Will Wilford senior, James Wilford, Nicholas Kirkham junior, Edmund Larder, Gilbert Seyntclere, William Wilford junior, Robt Alway, Rich Duke, and Charles Hoppyng, to fulfil his last Will. Faringdon is held of the heirs of John Tredirff, in free socage; worth by the year, clear, 10 marks. Orway is held of the lord of Audley in free socage; worth by the year, clear, 10 marks. Rockebeare is held of the Abbess of Canonleigh, by fealty; worth by the year, clear, 20s. Charles is his son and heir aged 15”. (TNA: C142/30/131 & E150/155/1).
“Elizabeth Faryngdon widow of John Faryngdon esq” wrote her Will 8 July 1516, and it was enrolled into the Exeter Mayor’s Court Roll during the mayoralty of Thomas Hunt (c. 8 July 1517 MCR 8/9 HVIII, m.36) see right and Appendix which requires a full translation. It records, inter alia, her request that her body was to be buried in her tomb in the Chancel of the parish church of St Petrock’s, Farringdon, where the Rector is to be paid 6s 8d for the burial; pious bequests are made to the chapel of the Blessed Virgin Mary at Farringdon church and to the churches of St Mary at Aylesbeare and Clyst St George; to “John Wadham son and heir apparent of William Wadham of Caterston, Dorset, esq, and Mary his wife a daughter and coheir of me”, property in the City of Exeter “legacy of my father Robert Wylfford” except a tenement called “Our Lady at the Corner” situated in North street adjacent to Waterbeare Street to the south, occupied by John Scose/Scoose; to Margaret Faryngdon, another daughter, all that tenement called “Our Lady at the Corner”, occupied by William Ducke; property in the City of Exeter to Charles Faryngdon “my son”, who is appointed executor. John Wadham and Dom. Robert Wylsfford, clerk Rector of Upton Pyne, appointed Supervisors. The three properties at Waterbeare Street are doubtless those recorded in the 3 June 1490 Grant of the Executors of Elizabeth’s father, Robert Wilford (“Studies in Rom & Med Arch of Exeter”, Rippon, 2021), and recorded later by Hooker in his 1575 “Description of the Citie of Excester”: “The heyres of Robt Wylfford for the lands in Waterberestrete xvjd”, see also George Horsey later. In 1529/30 John Wadham still held at least one of the Waterbeer Street properties. Dom. Robert Wylsfford was Elizabeth’s brother, see earlier.