Note: Prefix BPC = Index to Dorset Wills and Administrations in the Probate Registry at Blandford, Dorset: -- Prefix DHC Copy held at the Dorset History Center Dorchester most of these are now (Oct 2012) available to members of ancestry.com -- Prefix P = Wiltshire & Swindon Archives and are increasingly available on line follow link-- Prefix PCC= Prerogative Court of Canterbury and Prefix PROB = Wills available on line at the National Archives -- Prefix SPC = Calendar of Dorset Wills and Administrations in the Salisbury Probate Court:

Note: The dates given are likely to be the date of probate or when administration was issued rather than date of death. As such deaths are likely to be in that year or the year before, but can be many years earlier. I have also carried out a quick check against surviving Parish Burial Registers for a couple of years before the year given below and commented accordingly. Many of these Wills & Administrations have been indexed separately by Dorset and Wiltshire Record Offices so they will show the SPC as well as P reference numbers. These indexes are not identical. Wiltshire for example tends to include the persons trade.

Note: Some Wills are listed here for years where no parish register has survived and may be an indicator that they died recently in the Parish. The Wills themselves or comments made on the bottom or reverse of the will may reveal more detail about actual date and place of death and of course hopefully family relationships. Where wills are available on line I have tried to scan them and list beneficiaries and other important facts mentioned in the wills. This is not possible where the wills are at the National or Wiltshire Archives as they have to be purchased individually. The fact that someone was from Dorchester does not necessarily mean that they died there & may account for there being no entry in Dorchester's Parish Registers.

NOTE: If you have a copy of any of these wills (which are often difficult to read) I am willing to transcribe it properly for you in exchange for permission to display the transcription on this site. Please make contact by email at-- Mikeatstrayleaves[insert the @ symbol here]yahoo.com -- please state "OPC Dorchester/Fordington" in the subject line.

Will of John [Johannes] HOMES of Dorchester, Dorset

[Note I think this is probably Dorchester in Oxfordshire?]

Dated 8th Apr 1545
Proved 19 April 1547

Will:- My body to be buried in the church of St Peters Dorchester near unto the place where I sit at service. I give unto every church in Dorchester 12d; Item: I give and bequeath to all and every of my one with the other as well as they were rehersed by name (Anne only excepted fiftie three shillings and four pence . And I give and bequeath to the said Anne three pounds and five shillings and eight pence. And if it happen any one dye that then his part to be divided unto the rest. Item I give and bequeath to Elizabeth my last daughter my title and interest that I have in the parsonage? of Stinsford yet to come: My will and my mind is that Margaret my wifeand Robert my son shall enjoy receive take and have all and singular the profits comodities and advantages rents and profits whatsoever they be yearly coming and growing as well of the burgage with the appurtenances in Dorchester now in the tuenure of John CHUBB as also of the leases of two mills with the appurtenances in Dorchester aforesaid the lease of Lowdisfield and the lease of the shops in Dorchester aforesaid and after the decease of Margery my wife I will the same burgage with the appurtenances in the tenure of John CHUBB and all other premises with the appurtenances remaining wholly to the said Robert my son and to the heirs of his body foe ever. And for lack of issue to the right heirs of the said Robert the residue of all goods moveable and unmoveable I give and bequeath my debts and legacies first paid unto Margery my wife and Robert my son whom I ordain and make my executors of this my last will. This being witnessed John PALMER Hugh rendham Jefferey Bowdon John Harvey Walter Windsor

In the name of God Amen the xxiiij^th day of Marche in the xiiij^th yereof the reign of o^r Sovereign Lady Elizerbeth ec I Margery MARKYSFYLL wyddow beying syeke of boddy and pfytt of good remembrance do make thyes my last wyll & testment in mann^r & foyme followying fyrst I geve my soule to Almyghty god and my boddy to be buryedd wi^th the churche yeryd of Sayntte Peteres in Dorchester Itm I geve to the mother churche of Brystell ? v - iiijd Itm to the church of All Saynte in Dorchester v - & ijd Itm to them thein? other kynye of? me in sayntte peter churche v - xxd Itm I geve and bequeth to Lettia KAYNELL of C?anefyd foy v - xxd Itm I geve to the poor people of Dorchester v xd Itm I geve to Johanne PETTRES my Nephew ???? one strene one kerchyff and a whyte peteycote Itm I geve to the churche of Saynte Peteres v - xxd Itm I geve to Margarett SOMERS my daughter?? v -xd Itm I geve to my daughters?? Kitchyn stooywe?? Itm I geve to Agnes ???? Kyspyll one kytell and a payre of syl?? Iathes Itm to any of my god chyldrne v iiijd the

[In Modern English} In the name of God Amen the 24th day of March in the 14th year of the reign of our Soverign Lady Elizabeth etc I Margery MARKSFILL widow being sick in body [but of] good remembrance do make this my Last Will & Testament in manner and form following. First I give my soul to Almighty God and my body to be buried within the churchyard of St Peter's in Dorchester. Item: I give to the mother church of Bristol? viz 4d? Item: to the church of All Saints in Dorchester viz 12d? Item: to ?? in St Peters church 20 pence ------

Note:- The 14th year of the reign of Charles II ran from 17th Nov 1571 to 16th Nov 1572

Will of Thomas LYMSTER alias FOXWELL, Merchant of Dorchester, Dorset

[Note:- His father Nicholas LYMSTER alias FOXWELL was Bailiff of Dorchester in the 2nd year of the Reign of Elizabeth I i.e. 17 Nov 1559 - 16 Nov 1560 - See his father's Will dated 7th May 1591 proved 1st March 1594 below]

[Note:- Thomas married Margaret the 9th of 13 children of John HENNING (1532-1617) by his wife Dorothie nee Wareham]

Will undated

Probate 19 Oct 1586

Will Undated?: My body to be buried next to my mother, or otherwise at the discretion of my executors. To the church of St Peters in Dorchester 10 shillings; To church of Holy Trinity in Dorchester 3 shillings and 4 pence; to the church of All Hallows [All Saints] in Dorchester 3 shillings and 4 pence; To the poor of Dorchester 26s 4p; To my father Nicholas LYMSTER alias FOXWELL £40 [ Note see his will below 1594] To Andrew HILL the boit? in my house 3s 4d; My father during his life to have occupsation and enjoy the house which I dwell in with all manner of furniture belonging; Margaret my wife also to occupy/enjoy house as long as she remain my widow; To my daughters Dorothy and Margaret FOXWELL 12 score pounds (£120 each) at age 18; If 1 die goes to the other - if both die then my son Thomas to have their whole stock at the age of 21; if all 3 die to next of kin at discretion of Ex & Overseers. To Margaret LYMSTER alias FOXWELL my wife 8 score pounds towards the payment of which some of the money she shall receive from her father John HENNINGE one hundred marks which is due unto me. Concerning my wares in my father-in-laws shop and his wares in mine my will is that one be offset against the other. To my son Thomas LYMSTER alias FOXWELL one woodven or woodrike? standing and being in a certain burgage in Frier [Friar] Lane called by the name of the mantle House furthermore I give and bequeath all that my land in Dorchester whatsoever with all singular his apputenances with all all manner of writings deeds scrolls fynes conveyance unut? whatsover unto my said son Thomas LYMSTERalias FOXWELLand heirs male of his body lawfully begotten. ------for want of issue after children and their heirs male -- to my father Nicholas LYMSTER and Henry LYMSTER my brother --both made executors of his will; Lawrence Stratforde and William Ware Overseers : Probate at London 19 Oct 1586.

Side Line entry dated 1st Nov 1592 : Mainly illegible refers to monies stocks Thomas FOXWELLS ----

Will summary: My body I bequeath unto the earth from whence it came and to be buryed is our use and right. To church of Holy Trinity in Bristol 4p; To unto my Parish Church of All Saints 6p; To the Poor of the parish of All Saints 4 bushells of wheat distributed as need requireth by the discretion of my Overseers ; To each of my godchildren 6p; I Will that the shop called the 'weaving shop' shall remain unto my son Paul GOODFELLOWE for 21 years and paying during the said term 8p per year to my executors. ; Myt will is that my burgage adjoining unto a certain burgage which Robert WARREN holds on the north side thereof and William CHURCHILL on the south side shall remain unto Agnes my wife and to Robert my son jointly together during the time of her widowhood. And after the fee simple of the said burgage will remain unto my son Robert to have and to hold him and his heirs To my sons Paul and John GOODFELLOW my other burgage called Admiston Burgage to be jointly held between them. To my son Paul my feathebed with appurtenances; two best potts --list of items and £10; To son John similar listing; ----------; To my sons Paul and John a woodfyne? standing upon my burgage called Admiston Burgage force? sherfeete and at Clavelston lying on the other Burgage; Item timber lying in the East walles before the widow HOBBES garden which timber came from Pulham Grange to be equally divided between them; to Paul and John 1 acre of wheat one acre of barley the best that may be chosen within the fields of Fordington or of Frome Whitfield ; I will that the lease that I hold of Frome Whitfield shall be jointly held between my executors during the lifetime of my wife her widowhood the after equally divided between my 3 sons I will that my best cupboard, my table boardin the hall and settle in the parlour shall remain always unremoveable as implements of the house. ; The residue of my goods I bequeath to Agnes my wife and Robert my son both executor & executrix of his will.; Overseers John White and Thomas BISHOP these being also witnesses William CARPENTER Rector [Actually curate of All Saints] and William WHITTLE

[Note:- His son Paul GOODFELLOW married at St George's Church in Fordington to Betteris WHITE the daughter of Robert WHITE (d.1576). John WHITE the Overseer to Peter's will was her elder brother]

Dated 21st Jan 1587:

Proved 11 May 1588

Will of Nicholas LYMSTER alias FOXWELL of Dorchester, Dorset

[Note:- Nicholas LYMSTER alias FOXWELL was Bailiff of Dorchester in the 2nd year of the Reign of Elizabeth I i.e. 17 Nov 1559 - 16 Nov 1560 -- Also Link to Will of Thomas LYMSTER alias FOXWELL (d.1586) son of Nicholas]

PROB 11/83

Probate: Administration granted to Henry LYMPSTER also FOXWELL son of the deceased in trust during the minority of Thomas Lymster also Foxwell

Will: In the name of God Amen the 7th day of May in the year [1591] I Nicholas LYMSTER also FFOXWELL of Dorchester in the County of Dorset being sick of body but of perfect mind and remembrance (thanks be to God) do make and ordain this my present Teastamnet and Last Will in manner and form following: First I bequeath my soul into the hands of Allmighty God my maker redeemer and my body to the earth from which it came.

Item: To St Peters in Dorchester 6s 8p;
Item: To the other churches there be divided equally between 6s 8d ;
Item: To the poor of Dorchester 40s etc
To Dorothie the daughter of my late son Thomas deceased 1 standing cup of Silver with the cover thereunto and half a dozen silver spoons in the custody of William Anthony and his wife;
Item: To Margaret his son Thomas's other daughter silver goblet etc in the custody of William Anthony and his wife; Also To said Margaret (i.e. granddaughter) my barn in Durne Lane in Dorchester with the garden belonging which I bought of Robert HOSKINS, for default to her sister Dorothy; & for default of issue then to Thomas their brother; & for his default of issue to son Henry LYMSTER alias Foxwell
Item; To son Henry my best featherbed + lease of a stable or tenement bought of John TOLERFIELD situated in Fryers Lane in Dorchester + Burgage adjoining said stable in the parish of All Saints in Dorchester which I likewise bought of said Tolefield .
Item: To Margaret wife of my late son Thomas deceased a 3rd best featherbed, a bolster, 2 pillows of feathers;
Item: To my brother-in-law Mr Lawrence STRATFORD my best gown;
Item: To young Thomas LYMSTER also FOXWELL son of aforesid Thomas deceased 1 silver salt 1 dozen silver spoons + all my timber lying partly in my dwelling house and partly in my house called my Malthouse and in case the siad Thomas shall die before he come to the age of 22 the to my son HenrY. Furthermore I give to the said Thomas and the heirs of his body lawfully begotten two burgages in Fryers Lane, one commonly called my Malthouse and garden and the other wherin stands the woodwoork which my late sonThomas bequeathed to his young son.
The Residue: of my estate Igive to the foresiad young Thomas LYMPSTER also FOXWELL whom I make my only executor and my Will is that my son Henry, cousin William MOORE & Mr George WATKINS of Becksington shall have the ordering and disposition of ye goods chattles and debts in trust until said Thomas my executor shall come to the age of two and twenty years -- etc instructions overthe trust;
My Overseers Son Henry my cousin William Moore, Mr Edward Martyn, & Mr John Greene to each 40s + My son Henry cousin Wm Moore shall have the education of young Thomas Foxwell until aged 12 then Wm Anthony etc etc Memorandum I give unto Dorothy my sons daughter one good feather bed and all furniture thereto belonging and in like manner unto Margaret her sister one other featherbed with all it's furthiture etc

Will of William GOLSEY, Gentleman of Dorchester, Dorset
[Note:- See his will - Born at Winterbourne St Martin - buried at St Peters Church in Dorchester - Robert Cheek remained Master of the Free School in Dorchester until 1627 so would have taught his son William]

[Note:- William GOLSEY is said to have married Anne HENNING the 7th child from the marriage of John HENNING (1532-1617) by his wife Dorothy nee WAREHAM on 8th Oct 1593

Will of George SMYTH [SMITH], Gentleman of Dorchester, Dorset

[Note:- Buried at Holy Trinity Church Dorchester 06 Jan 1608/9 see also Elizabeth SMITHE Widow will Dated 3rd Nov 1610 Proved 19 Jan 1611 below]

Link to more information about the 9 children of Georges SMITH (d.1608/9) and Elizabeth nee CHURCHILL (c.1543-1610/11)

Dated 30 Dec 1608

Proved 01 June 1609

by Elizabeth SMYTH [SMITH]

Note:- WILL: To be buried in HT Church to which he gives 20 shillings for maintenance; + 20 shillings to the poor to be distributed at the day of his funeral; bequest to kinsman Ralph PERINE a house situated on north side of Pease Lane between the land belonging to the said church HT on the east side and and a burgage of Joane EDWARDS my sister on the west side subject to Ralph PERIN giving to the poor of the parish 40 shillings annually. Bequest to Marie EDWARDS daughter of Margaret EDWARDS my sister a house on the south side of Pease Lane between the lands of me Henry on the west and south sides and the land of Joane RICHARDSON widow my sister on the east side and for default of issue to Ralph PERIN provided his wife Julian paid 26s 8d yearly for life. To Julian my wife my dwelling in Dorchester where I reside and all other my messuages, lands tenements houses buildings edifices backsides gardens and grounds in Dorchester in my possession or occupation of William SPEERING situate don west side of HT between high west street on the south side and pease lane on the north - after her death to kinsman John PARKINS of Dorchester Merchant; To Elizabeth PERIN daughter of William PERIN deceased £6; To Joane RICHAR[D]SON the younger £5; To Alice the wife of Robert OSBORN 40s; To John son of William PERIN 20s; To each of the children of John PARKINS 20s; To the children of Simon HASELBERIE 20s; To Joseph PARKINS 40s; To each of my godchildren 5s; All goods etc to Julian my wife also made execurtix; Overseers Simon HASELBERIE and William SPEERING

A Henry the sonne of John EDWARDES buyed the xxiijth [23rd] day of May [1608] at Holy Trinity? See also memorials HT

[Note:- Ralph SMITH married twice. Firstly to Joane MILBOURNE at HT Church on 30th Apr 1598. She died and was buried at HT on 7th Dec 1608.

He remarried to Bathsheba PARKER at HT on 6th Feb 1608/9. Rafe SMITH was buried at HT Church in Dorchester on 14th Sep 1616. After his death Bathsheba remarried to Thomas BEAKE on 1st June 1618.]

Dated 11 Aug 1616

Proved at London Admin granted to Bersabe Smith relict 26 May 1617

Will of John HENNYNGE [HENNING] (1532-1617) Gentleman

[Note:- This transcription is available on Wiki Tree by Helen Ford for which I am grateful - reproduced opposite to enable cross referencing on this site and ensure preservation - note date of signing the Will at the start is 1616 not 1516]

[Note:- Link to a short account of his life and children ]

Will of John HENNYNGE [HENNING] (1531-1617) Gentleman of Poxwell

In the name of God Amen, the fourtenth daie of Julie Anno Diu One thousand six hundred and sixteene and in the yeare of the raigne of our Soveraigne Lord James by the grace of god king of England, France and Ireland, defender of the faith, the fourtenth and of Scotland (words crossed out) the nyne and fortieth.

I John Hennynge of Poxwell in the countie of Dorset, Esquire beinge nowe about the age of fower score fower years giving most hartie thanks to Almighty god for the same and beinge of sounde health and perfect remembrance prayse be to god and havinge considered the momentary and frayle state of humayne flesh and beinge desirous in the time of good health soe to dispose of and settle in certain [ ] and order the worldlie and transitory chattells which I nowe possess at the tyme whenn yt shall please the Lord by sickness to summon me to lay down my life. I bee neither [ [l?ambred](lumbered?) with the vayne cares thereof nor hindered from performing those [chrises] (cries?) of penitence, contrition, prayer for mercy and other godlie duties wherein so greate and weightie an occasion and extremetie of life shall best fill [fitt?] and becominge, doe make and ordaine my last will and testamente in manner followinge. First I give and bequeath my soule into the handes of my redemer whom as I have ever faithfullie believed to be the very Christ of god and that by his onlie passion sufferinge and bloodshed the [livelie??] and pfecte sacrifice onto offered on the Cross he hath made full satisffaction for the synnes of all such as beleeve in hym soe I beseech him for his promise and merits sake to present the same my soule [ ] by his merrits unspotted by his sufferinges and sanctyfyed by his spiritt to be acceptable in the Light of his Father my god and creator to whome be all glory and prayse forever. Amen

Secondlie, I will that my bodie be buried in such place and Christian manner as shalbe thought fitt by the charitable discresn of myne Executor and overseers and that yf it may conveniently be with the thyansell?? (Chancel?) of the pish(parish] church of Poxwell aforesaid.

Item I give unto the porre of the parish of Poxwell' the some of forty shillinges of lawfull money also I give to the poore of the towne of Dorchester the some of three poundes of lyke lawfull money.

Item I give unto the poore of the parish of Marnhull, the sume of forty shillings. And also to the poore of the parish of Ockford Fitzpaine the some of twenty shillinges of lyke lawfull money, which severall somes I will shallbe distributed and paid unto them by my executor within three months nexte after my decease.

Item I give and bequeathe unto Robert Henninge my sonne and his assignes all that my parte property and porton of the Capital messuage or Farme and landes comenlie called Cruxton, sett and beinge within the parishes of Mayden Newton and Froome and Vauchurch or aine or either of them in the said county of Dorset which Sir Robert Napper late of Grange in the said countie of Dorset deceased and myselfe rented and [ b__] of Christopher Pawlett Esquire for the terme of Nine yeares to come and unexpired and allsoe all landes tenements (illegible word in superscript above tenements) whatsoever with th’appurtenannces to the same capitall messuage or farme and landes belonging and appurteynninge or to owith the same nowe used and enioyed as parte or parcell thereof in my owne holdinge and occupaton or in the holdinge or occupaton of anie other person or personnes to my use or as my assignee of assignees and together with all my estate right title, intereste, termes of yeares [ ] [demeaned?] whatsoever which I have may, might or of right ought to have, of in or to the said capitall messuage or farme and landes and premisses with th’appurtenannces or of, or to my parte or parcell thereof. And also all and all manner of writings, [evidences?] [_s_pte] and minimentes? Whatsoever touching or anie way concernige the said capitall messuage or farme and landes and premisses with th’appurtennaces or any parte or p’cell thereof to have and to holde all that my parte of the said capitall messuage or farme and landes of Cruxton and other the premises and every parte thereof with th’appertenannces beofe by this is [ ] given and bequeathed or mentioned or intended to be given, devised and bequeathed as aforesaid and every parte thereof unto the said Robert Henninge his Executors and assiges for and [d_minge ] and untill the full end and accomplishment of all the terme of yeares yet to come and unexpyred of and in the same capitall messuage or farme and landes and premises with th’appurtenannces mentioned , expressed and conteyned in and by one deede of lease indented by the said Christopher Pawlett unto the said Sir Robert Napper and my self or any other p’son or psonnes to the use of us or either of us as aforesaid made.

And whereas I have and houlde for a greate nomber of years yet to come by lawfull tenneyanncie the Capitall messuage and mills called the Fryery and Fryery Mills sett and being in or [ ] Dorchester, aforesaid in the said Countie of Dorset and whereas I have assured unto Anne Golsey Widdowe, late wife of William Golsey of Dorchester aforesaud gentleman deceased one Anuitie or yearelie rente charge of fortie poundes to be yssuinge and goinge oute of the said Capitall messuage farme and landes called Cruxton duringe the life of the said Anne Golsey, my will and meaninge is and I doe hereby limitt? And appointe my Executor out of the rentes, revenues amd proffitts of the said Fryer and Fryery Mills to satisfied and pay unto the said Anne Golfey duringe her life the said annuyitie or yea rlie [tiny word in superscript] of fortie pondes chardged uppon the said farm of Cruxton as aforesaid at the daies and times limitted in the saide deede of Annuyitie. And in defaulte thereof to be performed by my said executors.

I doe give and bequeathe unto my said sonne Robert the said Fryery and Fryery Mills for so many yeares of the said terme as the said Anne Golsey shall live. And whereas I have and hold one half tememente or one half parte, parcell of the Mannor of Fordington, sett and beying in Fordington in the said countie of Dorset by coppie of [rum?] [] [Roole?] accordynge to the custome of the said manor. My will and meaning is and I doe devise and appointe that after my decease my sonne Roberte Henninge shall accordynge to the custom of the said Manor of Fordington otaine and procure an estate unto himself in the said half tenemente of half place to have and to hold the said half tenement or half place unto him the said Robert Hymminge and his heires accordynge to the custome of the said manor of Fordington.

see Notes on the Manor of Fordington By H. J. MOULE, M.A. From: Proceedings of the Dorset History and Antiquarian Field Club Volume XIII, published 1892, pages 152 to 162 This describes how this manor was divided in 65 copyholds or places. A half place was 20-25 Acres. . Each copyholder held his land, large or small, on three lives. On the termination of a life he went to the next Manor Court and applied for leave to “put in” another life. The parcells were divided between several large fields farmed in rotation.(strip farming) At harvest time these large ::fields were full of the townsfolk from Dorchester, many of whom had parcels of land there (some far smaller than a half place) In 1613, when the great fire of Dorchester broke out, there were few people in the town to assist in putting it out as they were busy in the Fordington Field. ) 

Item I give unto my daughter Thomazine Dashwood, the wife of Edmond Dashwood of Dorchester in the said countie of Dorset, all that messuage, burgage or tenement, sett and beinge in Dorchester aforesaid wherein the said Edmond Dashwood nowe dwellethw. Also all and all manner of houses, gardens, shoppes, sellers, sellers (repeated word) chambers, courtyards and [ ] to the said messuage or tenemente and burgadge belonginge or theremite nowe be used and enioyed as parte, parcell or belonginge of or to the same and also all my estate, right titles, interest and terme [ ] and demande which I have yet to come and unexpired of and in the same messuage or tenemente, burgage and premisses with th’appurtenances or of anie parte or parcell thereof.

Item I give and bequeath unto John James, the younger sonne of John James late of Over Moyyne in the said county of Dorset and of Joane his wife, deceased beinge my daughter ,the some of twentie poundes of lawfull money to be paid unto him within six months after my decease. Also I give unto all the [ ] of the children of the said John James the [ ] which he had by Johane my said daughter to every of them the some of five pounds thirteene shillings fower pence to be lykewise paid unto them by myne executors within one yeare nexte after my decease.

Item, I give unto Thomas Foxwell of Dorchester and unto Dorothy James the sonne and daughter of my daughter Margaret Foxwell deceased, to each of them the some of fortie shillinges to be lykewise paid unto them within one yeare next after my decease

Item I give unto every of the children of my daughter Dorothy Filloll, Thomazine Dashwood, Alice Talbott and Elizabeth Jollffe the sum of twenty shillinges appece to be lykewise paid unto them within one yeare next after myself.

Also I give unto every the children of my daughter Jane Strowde(??) the some of fortie shillinges to lykewise paid unto them by myne executors within one yeare after my decease.

Item I give unto my servant Henry Strongmand the some of tenne poundes of lawful money to be paid unto him within three monthes next after my decease.

Item I give unto every of my sonnes in lawe and daughters which shallbe lyvinge at the tyme of my decease a goulde ringe of the valewe of twentie shillinges with this poesy, I serve and feare god Also I give unto every one of my menn and maid servannts receivinge wages and which have served me one whole yeare before my decease the some of twentie shillinges apeece over and above that wages then dewe unto them.

All the rest of my goodes and chattells, my debtes and legacies paid and my funerall chardges disbursed I give and bequeath to my sonne Richard Hennynge whom I constitute and appointe to be the executor of this my last will and testament, requireing him to satisffie all my in[ ] debts and faithfullie and diligently to fulfill this my last will and testament om every pointe accordinge to my direction without respect of ainey p’sonne or p’sons

:And I doe hartilie and ernestlie intreat my especiall good freindes Sir Geroge Trenchard, Sir John Browne and Sir John Williams Knight. John Martham, Robert Napper, gentlemen and Willam Alberte to be the overseers of this my last will and testament desyringe them also by there good advise and direction to be assistants and ayders to my said sonne from time to time for the p’formance of this my last will and testament and in token of my good will and affection towards them for their paines and care therein, I give unto every one of them a gould ringe of the value of twentie shillinges to be ready made engraved with the mark or printe of deathes head in every of them and [illegible]That my pub’se last will and testament utterlie revoke (ing) adnull and make fru[illegible] voyd all and every other and former testamente, wills, legacies bequestes, executors, overseers by me in anie will before this time named, willed and bequeathed . In witness whereto of I have hereunto sett my hand and seale, the daie and yere first above writtenn. John Henninge, sealed and delivered the daie and yeare first above written,

Dated 21st Jun 1617

Proved 15 July 1617

Dated 13 Nov 1620

Proved 07 Dec 1620 at Blandford Court

Dorset and Somerset Wills and Administrations 1312-1799 Part 3 Dorset Wills and Administrations [Source Ancestry.com extracted Probate Records 1269-1975]

[Note:- Gifts to this town for the Relief of the Poor : Source Hutchins Page 404 - "Given to the Bailiffs and burgesses of Dorchester, by Owen SAMWAYS, of Dorchester, milner by his will dated Nov 13th 1620, proved in Blandford court Dec 7th 1620 , one burgage at Melcombe, after the decease of Elizabeth wife of Peter FILDEW, without issue of her body, one half to the use of the womans almshouse, and the other part to the hospital, worth clearly by estimation yearly (£1.10s. 0d ) "

Will: bequest of a lease of 21 years to Robert HOSKINS of a house in Dorchester he lately bought from him for the use of his children: He forgave William FFOOKE £22 he owed him; whereas he has an estate in the house he then dwelled in for the life of Jane SYMONDS he gave the same house unto Roger FOOKE the son of said Wm Fook Others mentioned ; bequests to Wm HAYWARD; Amy Hayward now the wife of Lawrence KIPTON 20 nobles; Thomas HILL godson £5 +£25 for his children ; ---money left in the hands of John GOULD the younger until they come of age: Nicholas PORTERS children £20: To Elizabeth WHITE a bearing sheet and an old pink gown; Johane MARTYN £5 and a new gown made fir her ; Alice HUTTON a russet gown and smock ; To poor of All Saints Dorchester 40s to be disposed by Mr John GOULD and Robert CHEEKE Clerk; Alice wife of Raffe [Ralph] HUTTON 10s;

Unto Elizabeth wife of John WHITE 10s; to Hamnett WHITE 20s; To Robert BILLETT his servant 20s and a suit of his worst apparel, 2 shirts and a fifth of his tools; the rest to 4 of his apprentices. He gave his apparel and household stuff unto his kindred attending him in his sickness at discretion of John Gould and Robert Cheeke. To William MARTYN 20s; To children of Robert HOSKINS, William FOOKE, William HAYWARD, Thomas HILL and Richard PORTER 12d each in King Edward Shillings. To his 4 apprentices to carry him at his funeral 12d each and a canvas apron; to 8 maidens a russet waistcoat and a ? kerchief to be worn at his burial

REST: To John GOULD the Younger sole executor. Witnesses Robert CHEEKE Clerk; Hamnet WHITE; Henry BENVENUE; Robert BILLETT;

See page 50 William WHITEWAY of Dorchester His Diary 1618-1635 burnt during fire 30 Jan 1622/23 died 1st Feb 1622/23.

Will of William PERKINS, Merchant of Holy Trinity Parish in Dorchester, Dorset (Year Book Abstracts = proved of the parish of Holy Trinity Dorchester by his father John PERKINS)

Note:- page 115 William WHITEWAY of Dorchester His Diary 1618-1635 entry for 7th Feb 1630/31 "This day Mr William PERKINS my brother [i.e. brother in law] died , and Mr John LONG succeeded him in the place of Capital Burgess : his wife was delivered of a daughter called Mary the 24th of the same month".

Note:- William PERKINS was buried at Holy Trinity Church Dorchester 25 Feb 1630/1 From William WHITEWAY's Diary (his brother in law) we know that he married Grace on 26th Aug 1629 but I have found no trace of her surname or where the marriage took place]

Dated 05 Feb 1630/1

Proved 02 July 1631

February 5th 1630/1
The Last [Will] and Testament of William PERKINS of Dorchester Merchant

Impremis: I give unto the Overseers of the poor of the Parish of Holy Trinity in Dorchester the sum of fourteen shillings to be distributed unto the poor of the said Parish by the discretion of my eecutors hereafter named.

Item: I give unto my beloved father Mr John PERKINS of Dorchester Merchant the sum of eleven hundred pounds to the intent and upon condition that he do within 3 years after my decease convey and extablish or procure to be conveyed and established unto my beloved wife Grace or to such persons as she shall assign one Annuity or yearly rent of one hundred and twenty pounds by the year to be paid unto my said beloved wife or her assigns for her use during her natural life every year yearly.

Item: after the said sum of eleven hundred pounds paid unto my beloved father at or after done, of the remainder of my goods I give and appoint to be paid unto my beloved wife Grace the sum of three hundred pounds within three years after my decease and my desire and request unto her is that in recompence have of the undertake the charge of bringing up and maintaining the child wherewith she now goeth until it come to the age of eighteen years if it so long happen to live.

Item: I give unto the Mayor, Bailiffs, Aldermen and Burgesses of the Borough of Dorchester the sum of one hundred pounds to be paid unto them within two years after my decease and to be employed by them to such Charitable uses as my executor hereinafter named and Mr John WHITE Rector of the Parish of the Holy Trinity in Dorchester shall appoint and direct.

The Rest: of my goods and chattels I give and bequeath unto my beloved father Mr John PERKINS aforesaid whom I make executor of this my last Will the day and year above named in the presence of John WHITE , W: WHITEWAYE, Tho: BUSTWOOD, John PERRIN

Dated 30 Sep 1641

03 December 1641

Will: To Sarah his wife house in which he dwells situate on th East side of North St in Dorchester + property etc in Bridport for life: Then to his Eliezer my son when aged 26 if he die to all his daughters not named. In trust with friends Mr William BRBIE Richard SAVAGE 7 Thomas ? of Dorchester and Mr Walter Bailey of Bridport. Daughters legacies of Sarah £100, Marie £80 Elizabeth £70; Martha £60 all paid when 24 years old except Martha who to be paid as sums raised out of my lands at Bridport.

Whereas there is an estate of £34 in money in Thomas FORDS hands in New England and in the hands of Roger CLAP and Stephen TAYLOR in New England the revenue of £50 worth of goods and divers moneys and goods of mine in the hands of Henry COGAN that and other cattle and corn that I have in the New England I do appoint that all the said monies and goods or the revenue thereof shall go and be employed towards the raising of my said daughters legacies and also all such money and revenue to the benefit of my plantation at Beshiscot? in New England which is due to me from my brother in law Thomas PURCHASE. And I do give and devise all my moity of that plantation hiuses land and grounds in New BESHIPSCOT? aforesaid and my lot in Dorchester in New England aforesaid and all other my lands and grounds in new England aforesaid unto my said Eleazer and the heirs of his body if he die to my daughters --Residue to wife Sarah made executrix signed 1st Oct 1641 in the presence of William DERBIE

Will of John ALLAMBRIDGE, Clothier of Dorchester, Dorset

Note:- Known Children :-
Martha Allambrigge married Samuel Bushrod (1616-1646) HT 1st Sep 1640;
Jane bap HT 18 Feb 1637/8 buried 9th Mar 1638
Abigail bap HT 25 July 1639 buried 27th July 1639
Elizabeth bap HT 24 Oct 1641
Samuel bap HT 2 Oct 1642

Will of William MELLEDGE of Dorchester, Dorset

[Note:- Buried St Peters Church 04 Dec 1654]

Dated 28th Nov 1654

Proved 14 Aug 1655

Will: Beneficiaies:- To my wife the garden, the housing all all appurtenances for her life:- After her decease to Martha my 2nd eldest daughter; after her decease to Sarah my oldest daughter for life ; after her decease to Mary my 3rd oldest daughter and after her decease to Elizabeth my youngest daughter. To my wife more for widdowhood in Holwell Tenement and after that to Sara my eldest daughter for her portion or £100 thereof if she fist match [marry] ; If Martha my 2nd daughter first match that money to be her portion. For Elizabeth youngest £200

Land at Worth to Mary my 3rd daughter when 20; I give to my wife all my interest inthe house in Pease Lane Dorchester and my gold ring and my shop goods and books - also made executor

Friends Mr Arthur GOULD and William TWIST to be Overseers

PCC: Index 1657

OPC Admons 25th Nov 1657

Ancestry.com index only

PCC Folio 292

Also OPC Admons PCC

[Note:- Can only trace:-
(1)John GARDNER being married to a 'Temperance MAN' in the parish of Poole Dorset on 27th Oct 1615.

(2) The Will of Joane GOULD (1549-1630), the widow of James GOULD (d1613), left a bequest of a yearly annuity of 30 shillings 'for the lives of John GARDNER and Temperance his wife ' for the benefit of the poor widows and other poor people living in Dorchester.

(3)Temperance GARDNER the Relict of John GARDNER is listed as a tenant in the 1650 Survey of Fordington Manor holding in her widowhood a parcel of meadow land called a farthinghold containing half an acre of meadow and 13 acres of arable land.. Three of her children John Gardner aged 36 years (born c1614); Henry Gardner aged 20 years (c1630) ; and William Gardner aged 30 years (c1620) hold by copyhold grant dated 7th Oct 1641 reversion of her farthinghold after her death by custom of the Manor. Temperance and her 3 children were all living in 1650.

(4) As we have burials up to 1639 this suggests her husband John GARDNER died between 1640 and 1650 when parish registers are missing and that Temperance died Intestate with adminstration being granted to her youngest son Henry on 25th Nov 1657.

Part of a will only very badly damaged -

I John TORRINTON of Dorchester in the County of Dorset being not well in body but of perfect memory do make this my Last Will [& Testament] in manner and form as followeth: I give to my son John all my working tools and one tableboard and one cupboard standing in the hall: I give unto my son Stephen one bedstand [i.e. standing bed] standing in the hall chamber one table board in the kitchin with one feather bed one feather bolster one ? ? my best pair of blankets one trunk with my best brass pot. I give to my son John's son John one etc

[Note:- Stephen TORRINGTON was educated at the Dorchester Free school 1652-1655 by Samuel Cromblehome (1618-1672) when he then matriculated at St Johns Cambridge on 27th June 1655 being awarded his BA in 1658/9 and MA in 1662]

Will of Jonas PALFRY [PALPHREY, PALFREY], Brewer of Dorchester, Dorset

[Note:- See FFH assistant to Benjamin Devenish Master of the Dorchester brewhouse in 1622; took over on his death in 1643 as house clerk of the brewery:

Jonas PALMER married at FStG to Elizabeth INGRAM 17th Jan 1625/6 .

His 2nd marriage was to Joane HAYDON at Holy Trinity Church Dorchester on 11th July 1646

Buried St Peters Church Dorchester 23 Jan 1659]

Will : 27th Nov 1656

Probate: 04 Jan 1660

PROB 11/303

Friends John WHITEWAY Esq; John BUSHROD Clothier; and William HAYDON Millwright all of Dorchester Exevcutors

Will of John HYATT of Dorchester, Dorset

[Note:- Buried at Holy Trinity Church Dorchester 01 Mar 1663/4]

[Note:- Son-in-Law of Edward DASHWOOD and John's children beneficiaries under his will dated 20th Feb 1663 which also confirms he is deceased]

Copy of Will badly damaged, right side missing. Appears to have left estate to wife (sole executrix) with request for her to be careful in the education of his 3 children? mention in the will of William Hardy; Honey Garland; Edward Hyatt and daughters one of which was Joane.

Note:- There are burials for an Elizabeth (15th Jan 1657/8 and a John on 3rd May 1658, both children of John HYATT in Holy Trinity Dorchester .Also in the 1650 Survey of Fordington Manor there is a tenant listed John HYATT who holds tenement & a farthinghold plot estimated at 1 acre of meadow and 17 acres of arable land by copyhold grant dated 12th Apr 1636 for the life of the said John Hyatt aged 26 years ]

Will of Edward DASHWOOD of Merchant, Dorchester, [Dorset]

 [Note:- The son of Edmund Dashwood (1588-1643) Alderman and investor in the Dorchester Company. Follow link for more information. Also see transcription of his Will - Edward Dashwood Merchant of Dorchester Dorset proved 20 May 1667]

The Will and Testament of Jasper COLSON In the name of God Amen: First I bequeath my soul to God that gave it me And my body to be buried were my wife in St Peters Churchyard And my will is that the little estate which God hath entrusted me withall shall be disposed of as followeth: First I make my son Joshua COLSON my heir and executor unto whom I do give my land house and garden in Allhallows Parish for ever And do also give him my book of debts due unto me for the consideration thereofI would have him to pay my debts And to give my son Frederick COLSON thrity pounds of lawful money and to be paid him five pounds by the year And I give unto my daughter Anne COLSON and Sarah COLSON her sister All my household stuff and plate and all my Phisick wares in the shop or elsewhere and the term of years I have in the house I dwell in to order and dispose as my daughter Anne COLSON thinks fit And I desire the Lord God to bless them all and to give them his grace that they may walk and live in the fear and love of God all their days and to love one another that this is my last will and testament I have unto set my hand and seal June 5th 1667 Jasper COLSEN: In the presence of Joane Butcher Anne Colson Sarah Colson her mark Elizabeth Long

Probate proved in the strand in the County of Middlesex by William Merick doctor at Law at the prerogative court the 31st December 1667 by Joshua COLSON executor

Will of Thomas GOULD of Dorchester

[Note:- His reference to brother George BARTLETT is because George BARTLETT married his sister Joane GOULD at HT Church on 03-Jan 1642 and brother-in-law was simply referred to as my brother]

Will of Joane BARTLET or Bartlett, Widow of Dorchester, Dorset

See FFH Page 243: " Wills made by townspeopel during this period often show their admiration for the dissentingclergy. In 1671 the widow Ann BARTLETT left two pounds a piece to a long list of them: Hammond; Benn; Joshua Churchill; Benjamin Way; Joseph Swaffield (son of Matthew, the shoemaker) and others"

[NOTE:- George BARTLETT married Joane GOULD at Holy Trinity Church Dorchester on 3rd Jan 1642. He was buried at HT Church on 1st Dec 1670. ]

[NOTE:_ Joane BARTLETT was buried at HT on 8th Aug 1671]

Dated 20 Apr 1671

Proved 13 Oct 1671

WILL: (Long Will only key points:-) Item: To poor HT Parish 20s : To Minister at my funeral 20s: Item: To Mr.William Ben; Mr. George Hammond; Mr Mr Benjamin Walter; Mr Joshua Churchill; Mr Benjamin Way; Joseph Swaffield; 40s each; Item: to my sister Margaret the wife of Simon Game £20, 1 pair sheets, 1 pillowtie, Item to my sister Elizabeth the wife of Robert Phelps £20, 1 pair of sheets, 1 kettle; Item: to cousin Elizabeth wife of Thomas Lewington of Fenbridge £20, 2 pewter dishes; Item: to cousin Elizabeth wife of Randle Hatherne £20, 2 pewter dishes; Item: to cousin Christian wife of William Munden £18, two pewter dishes; Item: to cousin Alice Game £10 for use of her 2 sons Simon and Thomas Game; Item: to cousin Thomas Game of Henley £20; Item: to cousin George Gould £20, 2 pewter dishes Item: to cousin Temperance Chipp £20, 1 pair of sheets 1 pillowtie, 2 pewter dishes. Item: to cousin Thomas Gould son of my brother Thomas GOULD £15: Item: I give to his brother James Gould £15; Item: I give to his brother Arthur Gould £15 2 pewter dishes, 1 candlestick; Item: I give to my cousin Anne daughter of my brother Thomas Gould £15 1 pair of sheets 1 pillowtie; 1 brass pott 2 pewter dishes 1 skillet, 1 trunk, 1 leather Chair, 1warming pan: Iten I give to her sister Joane £15; 1 pair of sheets, 1 pillowtie, 1 brass pot, 2 tewter dishes, 1 candlestick, 1 brass skillet, 1 chest, 1 leather Chair, Item I give to CousinSusannah daughter of my brother [brother-in-law] Robert Phelps £20 1 featherbed, 1 standing bedstead, 1 rug, 1 bolster, 1 pillow, 1 pair of sheets, 1 pillowtie, 1 chest standing in the Kitchen Chamber, 1 iron pot, 2 pewter dishes, the least bell metal skillet: Item I give to my Cousin Arthur son of my brother William Gould £10: Item I give to my Cousin John Phelps and my brother Robert Phelps of Sherborne £30 1 truckle bedstead, with//

a feather bed in it, standing in the Hall Chamber 1 brass pot 1 pair of sheets, 1pillow, 1 kettle, 2 pewter dishes 1 candlestick, 1 pair of the biggest brass Andirons, one leather chair,: Item I give to my cousin Mary Butler of mapperton £5: Item I Give to my Cousin Thomas GOULD the hous ei now dwell in for his life: Item the house now in the possession of John Connery and John Gillett in Pease Lane [Dorchester] which I hold by lease for the life of James and of Thomas Gould I give to Anne Gould and Joane Gould daughters of my brother Thomas Gould during the lease to be equally divided between them, Item my will also is that whereas there is £50 due and owed to me upon bond from one John STROUD late of Rime (if it be recovered) my brother Thomas Gould's 5 children shall have £5 each ; Item £5 more due to me from Mr Stroud I give to my servant Joane Gould : Item I give to my Brother Arthur Gould and his wife each a piece of gold worth 20s : Item I give to Sophia Wyatt and his wife each a piece of gold worth 20s : Item I give toCousin John Phelps and his wife each a piece of gold worth 20s : Item I give to my Brother Thomas Colbourne and his wife each a piece of gold worth 20s : Item I give to james Gould the son of Arthur Gould and his wife each a piece of gold worth 20s : Item I give to Thomas Groze? and his wife each a piece of gold worth 20s : Item I give to the 3 children of James Gould vizt James, Rebeckah and Sarah Gould £3 each. THE REST of my houshold goods I give to my servant Joane Gould: Item I give to James Gould the tools and house in his possession for his life etc etc- Brother Arthur Gould and kinsman John Phelps Executors

Will 06 Feb 1672

Probate 20 Apr 1673

Nuncupative Will:- MEMORANDUM: that on or upon the 6th day of July in the year of our Lord God 1674 Mary CORBIN late of Dorchester in the County of Dorset widow being sick and weak in body but of perfect mind and memory, and having an intentto settle her estate, made and declared her last Will and Testament Nuncupative or by word of mouth in the manor and form following Impremis She gave and bequeathed unto Ralph CORBIN her son the sum of £5; to her son George CORBIN she gave also £10 And to her Son-in-Law Ralph ADAMS she likewise gave the sum of £4; And her Will further was that her son Ralph CORBIN should have after her decease a pair of new holland sheets and an Harris? cowshed, to Ralph ADAMS she also gave a pair of canitas? sheets and all the rest of her goods of what nature or kind soever not formerly by her given and bequeathed she gave and bequeathed to be equally divided amongst all her children. All with words or the like in effect she uttered and spoke in the presence and hearing of reliable witnesses

Signed Robert COSSENS; Robert CORBIN fils [might mean son of] probate granted 30th day of October 1674

Buried Holy Trinity 24 Mar 1675

Will Relict of Edward DASHWOOD of Dorchester merchant deceased. To be buried under her seat where she usually sat in church of Holy Trinity: To grandson Edward HYATT son of John £120: To be paid out of £300 left by husband in his will from lands at Brockhampton in parish of Buckland Newton:: Bequests to grandson George Nelson, Joane & Ann Hyatt grandaughters and Edward grandson; Thomas son of Zachary Nelson; grandaughter Mary Nelson dau Zachary; Sarah wife of Charles Stoodly; John, Nathaniel; Thomas Nelson ; Samuel Nelson; Great grandson Charles Stoodley; I give to Sarah Christopher and Timothy Stoodley children of etc etc ---another 2 pages ----

Will 09 June 1676

Proved 21 Jun 1676

L/A 01 Jan 1676/7

Part Quote from L/A :- The Condition of this obligation is that whereas Judeth GUY late of ye pish (parish) of Holy Trinity in Dorchester aforesaid made and declared her last will and testament nuncupative or by word of mouth and therein nominated and appointed Mary GAPPER above bound to be her executrix who has proved the said will (see 21 June 1676 above) and taken upon----

Memorandum: that on or about the ninth day of June in the year of our Lord God one thousand six hundred seventy six Judeth GUY late of Dorchester in the County of Dorset spinster being of perfect sense and memory made and declared this her last will and testament nuncupative or by word of mouth in manner and form following First she willed that Nicholas GUY her brother ---brother Thomas GUY--- Rest to loving friend Mary GAPPER also nominated as executrix - signed Sarah BEDFORD; the mark of Magdalen GRINDHAM --Proved 21st day June 1676

Ad/Dt/A/1678; Event Record Number: 19.

Dated 1 Nov 1680

07 January 1681

Will of Joseph SEWARD [SEAWARD] , Merchant of Dorchester, Dorset

[Note:- Buried All Saints 3rd Feb 1681 He was governor of the Co of Freemen 1657 and is mentioned in the will of Edward Dashwood 1667.]

Summary:- Mr John MICHEL of Kingston RUSSELL the Brother-in-Law of Mrs Frances BINGHAM late of Dorchester Spinster died intestate and Mr William MEECH of Longbredy yeoman

which are or shall be administered by Mrs Grace SKINNER otherwise BINGHAM the sister and administrtrix of the estate of Frances BINGHAM whereas during the nonage and minority of Mr John, Michel; Frances Michel; Penelope Michel; Joana Michel and Martha Michel sons and daughter of -----missing part of document. could not trace a burial

Will of Elizabeth MELLEDGE Widow [of Dorchester] Dorset

[Note:- Elizabeth MELLEDGE was buried at St Peters Church in Dorchester on 22nd May 1687]

[Note:- Letter of Administration for the estate of Elizabeth MELLEDGE Spinster of Dorchester dated 14th Apr 1694 granted to her sister Martha BARTLETT. This Elizabeth was the daughter for which the rest of her estate was put in trust]

[Note:- Martha MELLEDGE her daughter married Mr.John BARTLETT at St Peters Church on 14th Feb 1655/6]

DHC Ad/Dt/W/1687
Event Record 13

PROBATE: at Blandford granted to Mr. John BARTLETT 21st June 1687

Will: I Lawrence SHEPARD of Dorchester of the parish of the Holy Trinitie Shearman beinge sicke in body but of good & pfect memory doe make this my last Will and testament in manner & form as follows:-

Impremis: I give to my Sonne Lawrence SHEPPARD my Ra?ke and three of sheeres one sheare bord & cotton bord

Item: I give my sonne George SHEPPARD one stocke? of Beer and five shillings in money

Item: I give my sonne Robert one stocke? of beer & five shillings

Item: I give to my sonne Willm SHEPARD one Stocke of beer & five shillings

Item: I give my sonne in law Enock FFORTISCUE one shilling

Item: I give my daughter Rachell CHILES whome I make Executrix of this my last Will & Testament my Dwelling House and farm? and all the appurtenances thereunto belonging and with all ? in the house

Whittnes my hand hereunto sett [The mark of Lawre[rest missing] SHEPPARD

24 Decem 1689 John GILBERT; ? BEDFORD Whitnesser

Letters of Administration for the estate of Samuell BRAY, of Dorchester, Dorset.

[He was referred to in the year 1689 as Beadle of Dorchester in the Municipal Records of Dorchester Page 407 - Buried at St Peters Church Dorchester 13th Feb 1689/90]

Letter of Administration : Know all men by these presents that Susamian BRAY of Dorchester in the County of Dorset Widow and Johan LOVETT of Dorchester a Clothier are held and firmly bound unto Rev Henry Jones Legal Doctor at Law and Official of ----etc ---Dated 1st May 1690

The condition of this obligation is such that if Susamia BRAY the relict and late wife and Administratrix of all and singular the goods chattles and credits of Samuell BRAY late of Dorchester aforesaid deceased do make ---etc

The mark of Susanne [S] Bray - Signature of John LOVETT

Witnesses : G Pashen and Thomas Iveleaf

Will of John SYMONDS, Gentleman of Dorchester, Dorset

[Note:- Buried Holy Trinity 22 Feb 1691: Also mentioned by Hutchins as a benefactor who left money for the maintenance of Chubb's almshouses (page 370) ]

Dated 5th Jan 1691

Proved 14 Mar 1692

Letter of Adminsitration for the estate of Elizabeth MELLEDGE Spinster of Dorchester [Dorset]

[Note:- Elizabeth MELEIDGE was buried at St Peters 9th Apr 1694]

Letter of Administration for the estate of William CRIMBLE, of Dorchester, Dorset

[Note:- Not located burial ]

Know All Men by these presents that Elizabeth CRIMBLE of Dorchester in the County of Dorset Widow , John LOVETT & William CLARK of Dorchester are firmly bound unto Rev Henry JONES Doctor at Law and official prebendary of the Archdeacon Etc Etc--- dated 6th day in the month of August 1694

The condition of this obligation is such that if the above bound Elizabeth CRIMBLE the Relict and Administratrix of all and singular the goods credits and chattles of William CRIMBLE late of Dorchester (??bovesd ?) in their Majesties Service Intestate deceased do make or cause to be made a full true and perfect Inventory of all and singular the goods Credits and Chattles of the said deceased and the same so made and do bring in and exhibit etc etc --- Signed The mark of Elizabeth CRIMBLE John LOVETT and William CLARK

Granted to Widow and Relict Elizabeth CRIMBLE (her mark) witnesses Charles & Christopher Stoodly and William Glisson

Dated 9 Jan 1692

Proved 11 May 1695

Will: I James PAUL Mariner belonging to his Majesty's Ship Royal Victory will dated 9th Jan 1692 -- All to dear brother Thomkas PAUL of Dorchester aforesaid hellier--also sole executor. Witnesses William GEALE; Henry SHORTO; Edmund SEWELL

Probate granted to Thomas PAUL

Will : To my Neice Christian CHURCHILL the daughter of my brother William CHURCHILL deceased £150 at 21 or marriage;
To Nephew Edward CHURCHILL son of his brother Richard CHURCHILL £50;
To Anne CHURCHILL dau of my brother Richard £50;
To Frances CHURCHILL dau of my brother Richard £50
To Thomas Grove son of my sister Mary £10;
To my well beloved kinsman William CHURCHILL Esq and Charles CHURCHILL of Muston Gentlemen to each a ring of 20s who are appoinnted trustrees and overseers of his will
All the Rest to my loving Nephew John CHURCHILL the son of my brother Richard also sole executrix Dated 17th Feb 1691/2

OATH: November 14th 1695 Appeared personally William CHURCHILL Junior of Dorchester Gentleman aged about 40 years and John GARLAND of Dorchester Plumber aged about five and forty years and Henry ROBINSON of Fordington Clerk aged about thirty seven years - died soon after making his will

Dated 01 Jun 1696

Probate 04 August 1696

In the name of God Amen the first day of June Anno Domini 1696 I Joshua COLSON of Dorchester in the County of Dorset Apothecary being weak of body but of sound and perfect memory thanks be to Almight God do make and ordain this my last will and testament in mannor and form following First I commend my soul into the hand of Almighty God hoping through the merits death and passion of my Saviour Jesus Christ to have full and free pardon of all my sins and to inherit life everlasting and my Body I commit to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my executors hereinafter named and as touching my temoral estate as it hath pleased God to bestow upon my I give and dispose thereof as followeth Impremis I give and bequeath unto my kinsman Jasper COLSON the sum of 50 pounds and also a piece of gold the value of three and twenty shillings Item I give and bequeath unto his sister Sarah the wife of Austin WIGGINS ? piece of gold of the like value: Item I give and bequeath unto my dear sister Ann COLSON the sum of two hundred pounds and I do moreover give [her] all that my house and garden with the appurtenances situate and lying and being in the parish of All Saints in the Borough of Dorchester in the County aforesaid now in the occupation of Bernard TOOP To hold to her and her assigns for and during the term of her natural life and from and after her decease I give and bequeath the same unto my kinsman Robert COLSON the elder of Dorchester to hold to him his heirs and assigns for ever and I do moreover give and bequeath unto my said kinsman Robert COLSON a braod piece of gold of three and twenty shillings and to Joan his wife and Robert his son I give to each of them a piece of gold of the like value Item I give and bequeath unto kinswoman Sarah HERNE the now wife of Thomas HERNE Chyrurgeon the sum of two hundred pounds which said sum shall be and is hereby construed and meant the two hundred pounds I promised to give unto her in marriage with Thomas HERNE as by certain articles of agreement to that purpose made and exempted more at large appeareth and my will is that the said sum shall be paid and remainto the same intent and purpose as it is mentioned meant and intended on the said articles and covenants of marriage And I do moreover give unto her a broad piece of gold to the value of three and twenty shillings Item I give unto the poor of the parish of St Peters in Dorchester the sum of twenty shillings and the like sum I give unto the poor of the Holy Trinity and the like I give unto the poor of the parish of All Saints All the rest and residue of my goods chattels and estate whatsover I give and bequeath unto the siad Thomas HERNE and my dear sister Ann COLSON and do make and ordaine them my sole and joint exectors of this my present last will and testament and I do hereby desire my trusty and well beloved friends James COLE of Dorchester aforesaid Esq Thomas ROSE Doctor of Physic George LESTER of the same pewterer and Robert RASKER of the same maltster to be my trustees and syupervisors to see this my present last will and testament duly executed and for a recompence of their kindness I give unto each of them a gold ring of the value of twenty shillings a [piece due if it shall happen at any time hereafter any doubt or question to arise concerning any of the words clauses and sentences in this my present last will and testament or my true intent and meaning herein that then the further and better explanation interpretationand construsion of such doubt or ambiguity I will that my said trustees and supervisors shall expound and explain and interpret it accordingly to their wisdoms and good discretions and shall finally determine all differences that may happen to arise betwixt any of the legatees and my executors herein before named In witness whereof I have herunto set my hand and seal the day and year first above written the hand of Joshua COLSON: signed sealed acknowledged & published and declared & in the presence of John LOVETT Francis GARLAND; & Richard SAMWAIES:: Probate granted to Thomas HERNE 4th day of August 1696

Will: Having barred all former settlements by fine levied by my wife and son since deceased by reason of which the whole power of my estate is in my own self and at my own pleasure Impremis I leave my body to be buried in such manner and place as my executors hereinafter named shall think fitwithout vain ceromonies and much charge; For my earthly goods lands and estates in manner following: For my estate and lands in Milborne Port and Milborne Wick in the County of Somerset to be settled in trust with my loving friends William HULL oif Topidle Dorset Esq and Francis HULL of the same Gent, Heny Arnold of Islington and my Nephew Thomas MEECH of Chaminster, Richard ADAMS of Milborne Port whom I make my executors and Trustees in Trust to pay my debts and the debts of my late son Peter HULL ; Towards the maintenance of the widow Ann and relict of my son Peter HULL and Humphrey the only child of my son Peter HULL For their maintenance and his education Ann £10 pa for life and when debts paid £20pa to grandson Humphrey HULL. if he dies leaving no issue to my sister Elizabeth STROOD if living £300 and her daughter Elizabeth £200 and her other 2 daughters £200 between them and George STROOD her son £100; Executors a ring each of 20 shillings; My servant Martha LUSE £10over and above her wages Sealed 17th Aug 1696 In the presence of Edward Cane; John Lambert; Martha Luse.