John WINCHESTER of Bullstrode, Birdkeeper to the Dowager Duchess of Portland (of Bullstrode House), proved his PCC Will in 1787.
William WINCHESTER of Hedgerley, Bailiff to the Duke of Portland (of Bullstrode House) proved his PCC Will in 1791.
You would think that the 2 men were likely from the same family (same name, same unusual employer, both left a wad of 3% annuities to their families) but I am not sure. Although there were WINCHESTERS in S.Bucks from the 1500s and on, the William WINCHESTER in question was definitely born in Nutfield, Surrey (probably in 1741 to a John WINCHESTER). His father looks to have died in Nutfield in 1779 so the Birdkeeper is not likely to be him. William also had a brother called John born in 1739 who could be a possible candidate.
Unfortunately John the Birdkeeper did not leave a complete picture of his family in his will. The only people he mentioned are:-
Grandson = John MANNING, Birdman to the Duke of Buccleugh in Scotland
Son in Law = Worthington HARRIS
4 Grandchildren = Thomas HARRIS, Ann HARRIS, Worthington HARRIS & Elizabeth HARRIS
Can anyone shed any light on the origin of John WINCHESTER the Birdkeeper and whether he was related to the later William WINCHESTER the Bailiff??
Thanks
