Wills: 11-24 Henry VII (1495-1509)

Calendar of Wills Proved and Enrolled in the Court of Husting, London: Part 2, 1358-1688. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1890.

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'Wills: 11-24 Henry VII (1495-1509)', in Calendar of Wills Proved and Enrolled in the Court of Husting, London: Part 2, 1358-1688, (London, 1890) pp. 594-614. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/court-husting-wills/vol2/pp594-614 [accessed 25 April 2024]

In this section

ANNO 11 HENRY VII.

Monday next after the Feast of S. Gregory, Pope [12 March].

Waryng (Roger), "taillour."—To be buried in the church of All Hallows in Bredstret. Bequests to the said church for tithes and oblations withheld or forgotten, &c.; to the sustentation of the Fraternity of S. John Baptist founded by the "Taillours" of the City of London; also to Thomas his brother, Margaret his sister, his godsons, servants, apprentices, and others. The residue of his goods and chattels to go to Margaret his wife, who is also to enjoy a life estate in his tenement at the corner of Bredstrete in the parish of All Hallows; remainder to the heirs male of his cousin William Waryng; remainders over. Also to his brother Thomas certain lands and tenements in the county of Kent. Dated 28 September, A.D. 1476.
Roll 223 (25).

ANNO 12 HENRY VII.

Monday next before the Feast of S. Maur, Abbot [15 Jan.].

Cowper (John), citizen and "shether." (fn. 1) —To William Wade, Master of the College of S. Gregory at Sudbury, (fn. 2) co. Suffolk, and brethren of the same, he leaves his tenement in the parish of S. Leonard in Estchepe. Dated 14 February, A.D. 1485.
Roll 224 (8).

Eburton (Henry), draper.—To be buried according to directions contained in his testament touching his movables. By the privileges and liberties of the City of London, whereby a freeman solely seised as of fee of lands and tenements within the franchise of the said City may give and devise (ponere, dare, et legare) the same in mortmain, he, the testator, devises to the rector, churchwardens, and certain parishioners of the church of S. Mary Abchirch lands and tenements within the parish, held by him in trust, to the use of the said parish church. Dated Sunday, 13 May, A.D. 1481.
Roll 224 (9).

Monday next before the Feast of S. Valentine, Martyr [14 Feb.].

Clopton (fn. 3) (Hugh), Alderman, citizen and mercer. —To the Master of the Collegiate Church of S. Michael in the Riole, commonly called "Whytington College," and Fellows of the same, he leaves a certain tenement formerly belonging to John Wok-kyng, charged with the observance of his obit in manner as directed. Desires without prejudice that in future, whenever there is a vacancy by reason of death or resignation of the master of the collegiate church aforesaid, preference may be given in the election of a successor to a member of the University of Oxford before all other universities. Dated 8 March, A.D. 1495.
Roll 224 (15).

[Date of Session of Court omitted].

Bayen (Thomas), senior, vintner.—To be buried according to directions contained in his testament touching his movables. To Cecilia his daughter, wife of Richard Hansell, tailor, a certain tenement in the street called "Cordewanerstrete" in the parish of S. Mary de Aldermary for life; remainder to the Masters or Wardens of the Commonalty and Mistery of the Vintners of London, charged with observance of his obit in manner as directed, and with the payment of six shillings and eightpence out of the issues and profits to the Prior and Convent of the House and Church of the Carmelite Friars in Fletestrete annually for similar pious uses. In case of default the property to remain to the Mayor, Aldermen, and citizens of the City of London to the use of the commonalty under like conditions. Dated London, 2 May, A.D. 1497.
Roll 224 (16).

Monday next before the Feast of SS. Simon and June [28 Oct.].

Porter (John), vintner.—To the Masters and Wardens of the Commonalty and Mistery of the Vintners of the City of London and their successors he leaves certain lands and tenements in the parishes of S. Martin in the Vintry and S. James in Grarlikhithe, (fn. 4) to be held by them to the use of the said commonalty and mistery according to the terms of the will of Gruy Shuldham, (fn. 5) viz. that they convert to their own use a large hall, with parlour, countinghouse, pantry, yard, &c., and keep the same in repair; that they bestow thirteen little mansions lying together, parcel of the said lands and tenements ordained by him for the dwelling of poor people, upon thirteen poor and needy men or women of the said mistery, (fn. 6) and if such could not be found, then upon other poor and needy men or women of good fame and honest condition, to dwell in such of the said mansions as might become void rent free, each receiving one penny a week out of the issues and profits of the residue of the property; that they also observe certain obits in the aforesaid church, maintain a chantry, and perform other instructions as set out in the will of the said Guy. Dated 18 May, A.D. 1496.
Roll 224 (17).

Draper (John), skinner.—To be buried in the church of S. Antonin, where lies the body of Johanna his late wife. To the College of the Blessed Virgin Mary at Eton a vestment of cloth of gold. His executors to cause five silver chalices, weighing in all sixty ounces, to be made, the same to be bestowed upon the poorest churches in the county of Essex. Bequest of forty shillings for the repair of Rochester Bridge, co. Kent. To William Pouter, the rector, and churchwardens of the church of S. Antonin aforesaid, he leaves an annual rent of fiftythree shillings and fourpence, issuing from four messuages situate within the parish, in aid of the chantry previously founded by John de Grantham, pepperer, for the good of his soul, the souls of Johanna his late wife, Richard Draper his father, Juliana his mother, the said John de Grantham, and others. To the Master and Wardens, Brethren and Sisters of the Guild or Fraternity of Corpus Christi founded within the parish of S. John the Baptist, in the Ward of Walbroke, he leaves the messuages aforesaid, subject to the above rent charge, and to a further payment of three pounds six shillings and eightpence to the rector and churchwardens of the church of S. Antonin aforesaid for religious services. His feoffees in trust of a croft called "lasores Croft," in the parish of Halstede, co. Essex, are desired to convey the same to the vicar and church wardens of the said parish church, for a term of ninety-nine years, for maintaining the lights called "Paschall lyght" and "Seint Mary lyght" within the church, and for other pious and charitable uses. His lands and tenements in the parish of Colne, co. Essex, to be sold, and the proceeds to be devoted to the purchase of forty thousand Brykes, ten thousand of which are to be given annually for four years towards the work of the belfry of the said parish church. Bequest of clothing to Roger Colman his sister's son. The master and wardens of the guild aforesaid to spend the sum of five pounds sterling upon wine for the brethren and sisters of the guild upon the Feast of Corpus Christi; also specified sums of money for gifts of coal to the poor of the parish of S. Antonin, (fn. 7) and to the inmates of Newgate and Ludgate. Margaret Van, late wife of Ralph Van of Halstede, to have a life interest in his mansion and garden in Halstede. Dated 18 April, A.D. 1496.
Roll 224 (18).

ANNO 14 HENRY VII.

Monday before the Feast of S. Luke, Evangelist [18 Oct.].

James (Bartholomew), Knt., Alderman and late Mayor of the City of London. (fn. 8) —To be buried in the chapel of H. Trinity in the parish church of S. Dunstan in the Est, to which church he leaves "a honest presbitory of Estrich borde" (fn. 9) to be set up in the "high Quere." Other bequests to the said church and to the Brotherhood of Jesus therein. Directions for funeral and distribution of torches subsequent to burial and month's mind. A dirige and mass of Requiem to be sung by the priests and clerks of the church of S. Dunstan aforesaid from the time of his burial "till and unto tyme my moneth mynde be fynysshed." (fn. 10) A chantry priest to be appointed by Alice his wife to pray for his soul, the souls of Johanne his late wife and others, for the space of five years or more. Bequests also to divers orders of friars, to the inmates of prisons and compters, to the Charterhouse at Shene, the Charterhouse beside London, to his servants, and others. The Mayor and Sheriffs to attend his obit, and the Brotherhood of Parish Clerks of the City of London to "be at condveyng" of his body to the aforesaid church and to attend mass. Also to Alice his wife, relict of Thomas Oulegrave, late Alderman (fn. 11) and Mayor, (fn. 12) he leaves a tenement and garden in the parish of S. Margaret Patens absolutely. To Doctor Davy Williamson, the rector, and churchwardens of the church of S. Dunstan aforesaid, the reversion of his great tenement or messuage situate within the parish, charged with keeping his obit in manner as directed, with remainder over to some other chapel or church within London to be named by Alice his wife in case of default. William Dunthorn (fn. 13) of London, gentleman, appointed one of his executors, to whom he leaves the sum of five pounds and his ambre bedys. Dated 24 November, A.D. 1481.
Roll 225 (15).

Monday next after F. of Trans, of S. Thomas, Martyr [7 July].

Meleman (Geoffrey), mercer.—To the Dean and Chapter of S. Paul's certain lands, tenements, and rents in Boclersbury in the parish of S. Mary Wolchirchehawe in aid of the four chantry priests serving in the chapel near the north door of the cathedral for the souls of Adam Bury, late citizen of London, and of Roger Holme, (fn. 14) late canon of the said cathedral. Dated 9 February, A.D. 1496.
Roll 22 (17).

ANNO 13 HENRY VII. (fn. 15)

Monday next before the Feast of S. Faith, Virgin [6 Oct.].

Carre (Johan, wife of John, gentleman), late wife of John Moyle, gentleman.—To be buried in the church of S. Laurence Pulteney near her late husband. To John Carre her husband she leaves all her lands, tenements, and rents in the town of Stanes, co. Middlesex, and in the parish of S. Sepulchre without Newgate, for life; remainder in trust for sale, the proceeds to be divided into four equal parts for the following objects:—(1) the founding a chantry in the church of S. Laurence aforesaid; (2) marriage portions for poor maidens having few friends; (3) the relief of poor householders and parishioners; (4) the repair of "noyous and jeoperdes wayes." Also to her said husband she leaves her lands and tenements in the parish of S. Margaret in Lothbury, so that he hinder not execution of this her last will. Her lands and tenements in Grenewiche Lane, London, to be sold, and one moiety to go towards the education of Thomas a Strete, son of her brother William a Strete, if so be he will become a priest, otherwise the whole of the proceeds is to be divided among the said Thomas and John a Strete, her brother's sons, and the children of her two sisters equally. To the second son of John Moyle of co. Kent, her late husband's cousin, she leaves property in "Theston Bermyget " (fn. 16) in the said county. Her lands and tenements in Yalding, co. Kent, and a messuage in the parish of All Hallows in Bread Street, to be sold, and divers sums out of the proceeds to be paid by her executors for the work of the parish church of "theston Bermyget," the repair of the bridge (fn. 17) of "Theston aforesaid," the work of the parish church of Woneherssh, (fn. 18) co. Surrey, the light of Our Lady in the parish church of Gruldeford, co. Surrey, and the repair of the parish church of S. Laurence Pulteney, London; and also to Agnes her sister, her servants, and others. A chantry priest to be maintained in the church of S. Laurence aforesaid for one whole year, and a month's mind to be observed therein for the good of her soul. Dated 20 July, A.D. 1497.

The aforesaid will was made with the assent and licence of John Carre her husband. In witness whereof he sets his seal the same day and year.
Roll 225 (27).

Monday next after the Feast of Conversion of S. Paul [25 Jan.].

Brice (Hugh), Knt., Alderman (fn. 19) and goldsmith.—To be buried in the church of S. Mary Wolnoth in Lombardestrete, to the rector and churchwardens of which church and their successors he leaves his tavern called "the Cardinals Hatte," situate within the parish, charged with the maintenance of a chaplain to perform various religious duties as set forth at length, and also with providing a clerk of good and honest conversation, being erpert and cunning in "the craft and science of syngyng, playing at Organs, (fn. 20) and techyng of childern," who shall keep a school and teach such children as he can get to sing "playne song and pryked song." (fn. 21) The aforesaid tavern had formerly belonged to Symond Eyre, draper, sometime Mayor (fn. 22) of the City, and had been demised by the said Symond in trust to the use of the Fraternity of the B.V. Mary and other pious uses in the church of S. Mary Wolnoth, in furtherance of which the testator charges his estates with various pecuniary bequests. Mention made of Elizabeth his wife. Dated 17 September, A.D. 1492.
Roll 225 (63).

Monday next before the Feast of S. Faith, Virgin [6 Oct.].

Coldham (Robert).—To be buried in the church of S. Mary Magdalen near Oldefisshstrete. To William Lychefeld, the rector, and churchwardens of the said church and their successors, divers tenements, comprising "le Kyngeshed" and "le Dolfyn" in le Oldechaunge, within the parish of S. Mary Magdalen, to the use of the said church and parishioners thereof, charged with the maintenance of a chantry priest for the souls of Edward Ellesmere and others, and observance of the obit of the said Edward in manner as directed. In case of default the property to go over to the rector and churchwardens of the church of S. Brigid the Virgin in Fletestrete for similar uses, with further remainder in case of default to the Wardens of the Commonalty of the Mistery of Fishmongers of the City of London. Dated London, 3 July, A.D. 1491.
Roll 225 (64).

ANNO 15 HENRY VII.

Monday next before F. of Annunciation of V. Mary [25 March].

Eburton (Henry), draper.—To William White, Mayor of the City of London and Master of the Guild or Fraternity of the Blessed Mary of the Drapers of London, the wardens and brethren and sisters of the same, he leaves divers lands and tenements of which he stands solely seised, viz., the tenements called "Drapers Halle," formerly belonging to Robert Auguylem, Knt., otherwise called "Auguylon," (fn. 23) in the parishes of S. Swithun and S. Mary Abchirch, together with a garden which served as a tenter ground adjoining; also houses formerly belonging to Paul Salesbury, esquire, in Candelwykstrete in the parish of S. Mary de Bothawe, the tenement called "le Groote on the hope" with houses in the parish of All Hallows de Honylane in Westchepe, and others in Cornehille in the parish of S. Christopher, and elsewhere; to hold the same for ever for the support of the guild or fraternity. (fn. 24) Dated 14 May, A.D. 1490.
Roll 226 (10).

Monday next after the Feast of S. Luke, Evangelist [18 Oct.].

Porter (John), vintner.—To be buried according to directions contained in another will touching his movables. To Margery Crofton, widow, an annual rent of thirty shillings issuing from messuages in the parish of S. Alban in Wodestrete for life; remainder to Richard Roche, Prior of the House of the Salutation of the Mother of God of the Carthusian Order near London, and convent of the same, for keeping an obit as directed, with distributions to the poor almsfolk within the hospital of Elsyngspytell. Dated London, 1 September, A.D. 1493.
Roll 226 (17).

Monday next before F. of Translation of S. Erkenwald [14 Nov.].

Barlowe (Roger), "taillour."—To be buried in the chapel of Our Lady and S. Nicholas within the church of S. Mary Wolchirch hawe "besides the stockes of the Citee of London." To the Brotherhood of Our Lady within the said church he leaves a tenement in Cornehill in the parish of S. Michael, so that the wardens of the fraternity keep his obit, with distribution of gifts, &c., in manner as directed. Dated 17 March, A.D. 1492.
Roll 226 (18).

ANNO 14 HENRY VII.

Monday next after the Feast of S. Faith, Virgin [6 Oct.].

Staunton (Maryon), widow, freewoman of the City of London.— To the parson, wardens, and parishioners of the church of S. James atte Garlikhyth her lands and tenements in the parish of S. Martin in the Vintry, so that they keep an obit for her soul, the souls of Thomas Staunton her late husband and others, with distribution of gifts of money, bread, cheese, spices, wine, &c., in manner as directed; remainder in case of default to the Master, Wardens, and Fellowship of the Talowchaundelers of the City of London for like purposes. Dated 20 July, A.D. 1495.
Roll 226 (19).

ANNO 15 HENRY VII.

Monday next after the Feast of S. Luke, Evangelist [18 Oct.].

Keynes (William), brewer.—A nuncupative will, the testator not being able, owing to the approach of death (propter impetum mortis), to reduce it into writing. To Elizabeth his wife his messuage in the parish of S. Sepulchre without Newgate for life; remainder to the Master and Wardens of the Fraternity or Guild of the Blessed Mary and S. Stephen in the parish church of S. Sepulchre aforesaid, so that they keep an obit in the said church for the good of his soul, the souls of Agnes his late wife, Elizabeth his present wife, and others, with charitable gifts to the poor, &c., in manner as directed. Dated London, 26 March, A.D. 1470.
Roll 226 (20).

ANNO 16 HENRY VII.

Monday next after F. of S. John ante portam Latinam [6 May].

Oo (Thomas), grocer.—To be buried in the church of S. Stephen in Walbroke, near the place where John Curteis, grocer, lies buried. To William Sutton, the rector, and churchwardens of the said church and their successors, a certain tenement within the parish formerly belonging to John Beverlay, charged with keeping his obit in manner as directed. Dated London, 26 November, A.D. 1491.
Roll 227 (6).

Monday next after the Feast of S. Valentine [14 Feb.].

Bele (William), "plomer."—To the rector and churchwardens of the church of S. Benedict Fynk lands and tenements called "Venours Wharf" in the parish of S. Mary Somerset, charged with the maintenance of a chantry for the good of hie soul, the souls of Robert Sympson, late draper, Sir William Pory, clerk, and others, observance of an obit, &c., in manner as directed. The devisees are also to repair the south aisle (insula) of the aforesaid church as well as the chapel therein, according to the terms of the last will of the aforesaid Robert Sympson, before Christmas in the year 1503. Remainder in case of default to the Master and Wardens of the Guild or Fraternity of the Blessed Mary of the Drapers of London under like conditions. Dated 16 December, A.D. 1483.
Roll 227 (7).

Monday next before the Feast of S. Mildred, Virgin [20 Feb.].

Burell (Elizabeth, widow of John, grocer), freewoman of the City of London.—To the Wardens and Commonalty of the Mistery of Grocery of the said City four tenements in Westchepe in the parish of S. Michael le Quern, charged with the maintenance of a chantry priest to celebrate in the church of S. Stephen in Walbroke for the good of her soul, the souls of her late husband and others, and once a quarter to preach a sermon; also with the payment of forty shillings annually, out of the issues and profits, to the rector and churchwardens of the church of S. Stephen aforesaid for providing bread, wine, and wax at the celebration of masses, maintaining the Paschal lights, repairing vestments, copes, surplices, &c.; remainder in case of default to the house of S. Thomas de Acon. An obit to be kept in the said church, with bell-ringing and other observances as set out. Should the aforesaid wardens and commonalty fail to carry out the terms of the devise, the property is to go over to the rector and churchwardens of the aforesaid church, charged with the maintenance of a chantry, &c., as above, and with the distribution of forty shillings annually among poor householders of the parishes of S. Stephen aforesaid and S. Benedict Shorhog. Dated 29 June, A.D. 1498.
Roll 227 (10).

[Roll 228, no wills entered].

ANNO 18 HENRY VII.

Monday next after F. of Nativity of S. John Baptist [24 June].

Percyvale (John), Knt., Alderman (fn. 25) and late Mayor (fn. 26) of the City of London, citizen and "Merchaunt Taillour."—To the Master and Wardens of Merchant Tailors of the Fraternity of S. John Baptist in the City of London and their successors twelve messuages situate in the parishes of S. Mary Wolnoth and S. Michael in Cornehull, charged with the maintenance of two chantry priests to serve in the church of S. Mary Wolnoth for the good of his soul, the souls of Thomasyn his wife and others, and charged also with the observance of an obit, payment of divers charitable gifts, &c., in manner as directed. The Chamberlain of London to have six shillings and eightpence for attending obit and seeing that the above messuages are kept in repair. The master and wardens to pay annually the sum of six shillings to the churchwardens of the church of S. Mary Wolnoth for repair of books, ornaments, &c., and to expend thirty shillings annually on the purchase of coals for poor parishioners of the parish of S. Mary aforesaid. (fn. 27) The residue of the issues and profits after payment of all charges to be kept in the common box of the fraternity, to the maintenance and support of their commoncharges and needs. In case of default made by the said master and wardens the property is to go over to the parson and churchwardens of the church of S. Mary aforesaid under like conditions, with further remainder in case of default to the Master and Brethren of the Church of S. Thomas de Acon in Westchepe. Dated 21 February, A.D. 1502.
Roll 229 (18).

ANNO 19 HENRY VII.

Monday next after the Feast of S. Katherine, Virgin [25 Nov.].

Rycrofte (Herry), brewer.—To be buried before the middle altar in S. Katherine's Chapel in the church of S. Botolph without Bishopsgate. Bequest to the old works of S. Paul's. A trental of masses to be said by the Austin Friars, the White Friars, and the Black Friars respectively. Bequests to the Fraternity of Our Lady and S. John the Baptist, the Fraternity of S. Christopher and S. Greorge, and for a chantry in the church of S. Botolph aforesaid; also to Elizabeth, daughter of Symond Taillour, and Thomas her brother, to Katherine his sister, dwelling at Waltham, co. Lancaster, Herry, son of John Rycroft, his godson, and others. Also to the aforesaid Symond Taillour, his wife's son, he leaves his best gown furred. To Margaret his wife his lands and tenements in the City and suburbs absolutely. If his executors make any month's mind for him there is to be no dinner, except to poor folk at their discretion. Dated 23 August, A.D. 1503.
Roll 230 (3).

Monday the Feast of S. Botolph, Abbot [17 June].

Marowe (William).—To be buried in the church of S. Botolph without Bishopsgate, where his father lies. Bequests to the said church, the church of Stoke, the Vicar of Stephenhithe, the Prior of Christchurch, &c. To Johane his wife forty pounds of his best plate and a life interest in the "Galykey" (fn. 28) and "the Mayden heed." To Thomas his brother he leaves a book formerly belonging to his father and "Marowe key." To Thomas his son the residue of his lands and tenements in London and Middlesex in tail. To his infant en ventre sa mère (if any) he leaves lands and tenements in Essex, called "Gaolstrete," "Uplond," and "Upney," in tail; remainder over. To his cousin Frawik his cup of jasper; to Elizabeth and Katherine his daughters forty pounds each, to be paid at their marriage or profession; (fn. 29) and to Anne Duklyng his daughter twenty nobles yearly till the sum of ninety pounds has been paid. His wood in Middlesex and Essex, except such as [if removed] should disfigure his place of Popler, to be sold if necessary for the repair of the corner house in Petywales, his tenement in Philpot Lane, and others. Dated 26 February, 14 Henry VII. [A.D. 1498-9].
Roll 230 (11).

Monday next before the Feast of S. Alphege, Abp. [19 April].

Hert (John), grocer and freeman of the City of London.—To Thomas the Abbot of the Monastery of the B.V. Mary and of S. Egwin, Bishop, at Evesham, (fn. 30) and convent of the same of the Benedictine Order in the diocese of Worcester, an annual rent of five pounds six shillings and eightpence, issuing from the messuage called "le White Bulle on le hoope" in West Smythfeld in the parish of S. Sepulchre without Newgate, and from lands and tenements in Bassyngeshawe in the parish of S. Michael and elsewhere, formerly granted to the testator by Thomas Cremor and John Bounde, drapers. Dated 30 March, A.D. 1504.
Roll 230 (17).

ANNO 20 HENRY VII.

Monday next after F. of Trails, of S. Edward, K. and C. [13 Oct.].

Hogan (Simon), draper and freeman of the City of London.— Testament touching the advowson and patronage of the parish church of S. Michael in Cornhill, of which he was jointly seised with others by gift of the reverend father in Christ Thomas, Abbot of the Monastery of the B.V. Mary and of S. Egwin, Bishop, of Evesham in the diocese of Worcester, (fn. 31) which he leaves to the Master and Wardens of the Gruild or Fraternity of the B. Mary of the Drapers of London and to the brethren and sisters of the same to their own use. (fn. 32) Dated London, 11 May, A.D. 1504.
Roll 231 (3).

Monday next after the Feast of All Saints [1 Nov.].

Knyght (Richard), fishmonger.—To be buried according to directions contained in his testament touching his movables. To the Wardens of the Craft or Mistery of the Fishmongers of the City of London a messuage and other tenements, with teynter- yarde, &c., formerly belonging to Lord Scrope, near Lymestrete in the parish of S. Andrew upon Cornhyll, (fn. 33) charged with the observance of an obit or anniversary in the church of S. Margaret in Bryggestrete for the good of his soul, the souls of Elizabeth and Johane his wives, and others, with various charitable doles, &c., in manner as directed. The residue of the issues and profits, after payment of all charges, to be devoted to the repair of the property and to the relief and comfort of all his Fellowship of Fish mongers. (fn. 34) His feoffees in trust of a large garden, alley, &c., in the aforesaid parish to hold the same to the use of Johane his wife for life; remainder to the use of the Wardens of Fish mongers in Bryggestrete and their successors, so that the said wardens maintain the same for the recreation and disport of themselves, and of such others as they may please to call thither unto them hereafter. The issues and profits coming out of a teynter situate at the entrance of the garden to be devoted to the common use and behoof of all the Wardens and Commonalty of the whole Fellowship and Craft of Fishmongers within the City of London. In case of default the whole of the property to go over to the parson and churchwardens of the church of S. Margaret aforesaid to the use of the said church, charged with observance of obit, &c. Dated 11 October, A.D. 1501.
Roll 231 (4).

Hongreforth (Alice), widow.—To be buried in the church of S. Michael in Cornehyll. Bequests to the said church, to the Fraternities of S. Michael and Our Blessed Lady, and S. Anne and S. George therein; to poor householders in the Ward of Cornehyll; to poor prisoners, the four orders of friars of London, &c. Among other bequests are the following:—To Elyanore, daughter of William Adlyngesflete, two square salts of silver parcel gilt with covering; to Isabell, wife of William Holt, grocer, and to Elyanore, wife of Thomas Carter, draper, white bolle coppys of silver; to Alice, wife of Walter Mower, and Elizabeth, wife of William Game, similar cups with images of S. John in the bottom, &c. To the parish church of Blakemore, co. Essex, a sum of money for buying a book or a vestment; her executors to see that the roof of the said church be properly seled with Estryche boord. To William Holt and Thomas Carter her tenement in the parish of S. Michael aforesaid, charged with keeping her obit in the said parish church, with charitable gifts, wood and coal to the poor householders in the parish, (fn. 35) &c., in manner as directed. In case of default the property to go over to the Master and Wardens of the Craft of Drapers of the City of London under similar conditions. Dated 1 September, A.D. 1491.
Roll 231 (5).

Monday next before the Feast of S. Vincent, Martyr [22 Jan.].

Brice (Elizabeth, widow of Hugh, Knt., late Alderman and goldsmith).—To be buried in the church of S. Mary Wolnoth. To Richard Rawlyn, the parson, and churchwardens of the said church and their successors, an annual quitrent of twenty shillings issuing from certain tenements in the parishes of S. Mary Wolnoth and S. Michael upon Cornhill, so that the said parson and churchwardens observe an obit, with gifts of money to the poor of the parish, as well as to the vicar and parishioners of Ruston, co. York, &c., in manner as directed. In default the said annual quitrent to go over to the Wardens and Commonalty of the Fellowship of Goldsmiths of the City of London. An obit to be kept in the church of Ruston aforesaid for the good of her soul, the souls of her husband, James Brice their son, Hugh and Elizabeth children of the said James, and others. Dated 25 September, A.D. 1498.
Roll 231 (14).

Burton (John), "pouchemaker."— To John Lychefelde, the parson, and churchwardens of the church of S. "Awsten" next the gate of S. Paul's and their successors, divers lands and tenements in Watlyngstrete in the parish of S. "Awsten" aforesaid, to the use of the said parish church, charged with the maintenance of a wax taper to burn within the same in like manner as Mawde Frosdeyn had caused a similar light to be founded there since the decease of Robert her husband, under penalty of paying six shillings and eightpence to the parson and churchwardens of the church of S. John the Evangelist in Watlyng-streate for every default. Dated 8 January, A.D. 1503.
Roll 231 (19).


Note.—The above will was made an exhibit in Chancery in Attorney-General and others, Informant plaintiffs v Leonard Clow and David Palmer, defendants.

Monday next before the Feast of S. Botolph, Abbot [17 June].

Frynd or Frend (John), goldsmith.—To be buried in the church of S. Botolph without Aldriche gate, near his wives who lie there. Bequests to the said church and to the Fraternity of SS. Fabian and Sebastian therein. To John Frende his apprentice a bedstead with appurtenances. The residue of his goods to be divided into three equal parts, whereof one part is to go to Anne his wife in the name of her full part and dower due to her by usage and custom of the City, the second part to go to Johan his daughter for her full part of his goods due to her after the good rules and constitution of the City, and the third part he reserves to himself and his executors for payment of debts, legacies, &c. The lands and tenements in Rikmansworth, co. Herts, which he had with Anne his wife, are to remain to his said wife absolutely. Dated 5 December, A.D. 1501.
Roll 231 (30).

Hardebene (Robert), mercer.—To Agnes his wife certain tenements in Gracechirchestrete in the parish of All Hallows in Lombardestrete absolutely. To Thomas his son his lands and tenements in Adderby, (fn. 36) Snetterby, (fn. 37) and Wadyngham, (fn. 38) co. Lincoln, in tail; remainder to Elizabeth and Johanne his daughters in successive tail. To Alice, wife of John Bales, a life estate in the tenement called "the Cok" at Brandon Ferry, co. Norfolk; remainder to John Legge of Brandon Ferry if the said John will keep and perform his bargain and payment of twenty-five pounds A.D. for the same by yearly instalments of five pounds, otherwise the tenement is to go to Agnes his aforesaid wife. Dated 17 March, A.D. 1498.
Roll 231 (36).

ANNO 21 HENRY VII.

Monday next after the Feast of S. Luke, Evangelist [18 Oct.].

Martyn (William), Alderman. (fn. 39) —To be buried according to directions contained in another testament touching his movable goods, which he has either made or is about to make. In execution of the last will of Richard Hylle, gentleman, he leaves to the Master and Brethren of the House or Hospital of S. Thomas the Martyr of Canterbury, called "de Acon," certain messuages of which he has become solely seised in the parishes of S. Mildred, S. Mary de Colchirch, and S. Martin Pomere, charged with the maintenance of a chantry for the souls of the said Richard Hylle, Elizabeth, wife of the same, William Huddesfeld, Knt., Dame Katherine, wife of the same, and others. Dated 20 August, A.D. 1505.
Roll 232 (6).

Monday next after the Feast of S. Valentine, Martyr [14, Feb.]

Alwyn (Nicholas), Alderman (fn. 40) and mercer.—To the Wardens and Commonalty of the Mistery of Mercery of the City of London and their successors he leaves a certain messuage in the parish of S. Antonin which he acquired from John Colet, clerk, Dean of S. Paul's, charged with the observance of an obit in the church of S. Thomas the Martyr called "de Acon," or in the chapel annexed thereto called "le Mercers Chapell," for the souls of Thomas Wyndout, late mercer and Alderman, (fn. 41) Thomas Northland, late Alderman, (fn. 42) Johanna, wife of the same, and others, in manner as directed. Dated 18 November, A.D. 1505.
Roll 232 (14).

Monday next after the Feast of S. Cuthbert, Bishop [20 March]

Alwyn (Nicholas), Alderman and mercer.—To be buried according to directions contained in his will touching his movables. To Sir Richard Adam, clerk, Master of the House or Hospital of S. Thomas the Martyr called "Acon," and brethren of the same, certain messuages in the parish of S. Pancras, and a little house called "the Siegehous," near Puppekirtyllane, in the same parish, charged with the maintenance of a chantry in the chapel founded by Sir Edmond Shaa, (fn. 43) Knt., late Mayor of the City, within the church of S. Thomas aforesaid, for the souls of Hugh, son of the said Sir Edmond, Julian, wife of the said Sir Edmond, and others, and also with the observance of an obit in manner as directed, upon pain of paying to the Wardens of the Craft or "Mistere" of Mercers in the City of London the sum of ten shillings for each default. In case of default made for half a year the whole of the property is to go over to the wardens aforesaid. Dated 31 December, A.D. 1505.
Roll 232 (21).

ANNO 22 HENRY VII.

Monday next before the Feast of S. Mildred, Virgin [20 Feb.]

Long (John), chaplain, citizen and tailor, and freeman of the City of London.—To Master Peter Vasor, rector of the parish church of S. Edmund the King and Martyr, and successors of the same, certain messuages and rents, one of the said messuages being known as le Bell, in Birchenlane in the parish of S. Edmund aforesaid, of which he had become solely seised, charged with the distribution of forty shillings yearly in bread and coal among poor parishioners, (fn. 44) and also with the maintenance of an obit and two chantry priests in manner as directed. In case of default the property is to go over to the churchwardens of the church of S. Peter in Cornhill, charged with an annual payment of seven pounds to two chantry priests to serve in the said church. Dated London, 6 January, A.D. 1503.
Roll 233 (13).

ANNO 23 HENRY VII.

Monday next before the Feast of S. Chad, Bishop [2 March].

Miller (Thomas), fuller.—To Robert Grower, parson of the church of S. Oloffes, (fn. 45) and churchwardens of the same, he leaves the reversion of a quitrent of thirteen shillings issuing from a tenement in Martlane in the parish of S, Oloffes, for pious uses in the said parish church for the souls of Robert Trot, "taloughchaundeler," Margery and Anneys, wives of the same, and others. The clerk of the said church to have for his labour fourteen pence,"so that he fynde oon persone to kepe the Quere at same our lady masse while he plaith at Organs or elles that he kepe the quere whiles that the same personne pleyes at Organs." In case of default remainders over. Dated London, 2 March, A.D. 1472.
Roll 234 (12).

Monday next before the Feast S. Benedict, Abbot [21 March].

Elyngwordth (Richard), gentleman.—To be buried in the parish church of S. Peter at Micheham in Sowthrey. (fn. 46) To Katherine his wife his lands and tenements in the parishes of S. Michael in Cornhill and S. Bartholomew the Little for life; remainder to William his brother. To John Bradley all his clothing which is in a chest in "Cliffordes yn." (fn. 47) Richard his father appointed one of his executors. Dated 9 December, A.D. 1407. (fn. 48).
Roll 234 (16).

ANNO 24 HENRY VII.

Monday next after the Feast of S. Chad, Bishop [2 March].

Fynche (James), "sherman." (fn. 49) —To be buried in the cloister of the college or parish church of S. Michael in the "Roialle" called "Whittyngdons College," (fn. 50) of London. After mentioning a recovery in the Husting of London for Pleas of Land held Monday next before the Feast of S. Scolastica, Virgin [10 February], anno 24 Henry VII. [A.D. 1508-9], made by him jointly with others against Robert Scrace and Robert Cressy of thirty-six messuages and a wharf in the lane called "Batteslane," otherwise called "Heywharfe Lane," of which messuages he had become subsequently solely seised by virtue of a release from his joint feoffees, he devises the aforesaid messuages to the Master and Wardens of the Fraternity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Shermen (fn. 51) of the City of London and their successors, charged with providing a Bachelor or Doctor of Divinity as a Reader of Divinity in the aforesaid college, and also with the observance of an obit for the good of his soul, the souls of Elizabeth his late wife and others, in manner as directed. In case of default the property is to go over to the Prior and Convent of the Charter House for like purposes, with further remainder in case of default to the Mayor and citizens of the City of London. Dated 15 February, A.D. 1508.
Roll 235 (19).

Footnotes

  • 1. 2 Sheather, or maker of sheaths for knives. Every knife was prepared separately by three different crafts—the blade by smiths called "Bladesmythes," the handle and the other fitting work by the Cutlers, and the sheath by the Sheathers. In 1408 the Cutlers had occasion to complain of deficient workmanship on the part of the Sheathers, the scandal of which fell upon the Cutlers (Riley's 'Memorials,' p. 567).
  • 2. 3 The church of S. Gregory, Sudbury, was purchased in 1374 by Simon de Sudbury, then Bishop of London, and John his brother; in the following year they had the same made collegiate, and founded a college for six secular priests (Tanner's 'Notit. Monast.,' p. 509).
  • 3. 1 Dowgate Ward; Sheriff, 1486; Mayor, 1491. Built a stone-arched bridge at Stratford - on - Avon (Stow's 'Survey,' Thoms's ed., p. 42).
  • 4. 1 The property here devised is understood to form part of the present site of Vintners' Hall, situate in Thames Street, and in the parishes of S. Martin Vintry and S. James Garlickhithe.
  • 5. 2 The date of his will (7 November, 1446) is not given here.
  • 6. 3 Previously to the great fire of London these almshouses were adjacent to the rest of the property mentioned. The fire having destroyed the whole of the buildings, the hall was rebuilt on an enlarged scale, but not the almshouses. Others were erected by the Company in their place, called the Vintners' Almshouses, on the north side of the Mile End Road, consisting of twelve houses and a chapel. (See Return made to Livery Companies Com., appointed in 1880, vol. ii. p. 642.)
  • 7. 1 The sum of 13s. 4d. appears to be still paid annually by the Skinners' Company to the churchwardens of S. Antholin's for coals (Report Livery Companies Com., 1884, vol. iv. p. 355).
  • 8. 1 Alderman of Walbrook and Tower Wards; Sheriff, 1462; Mayor, 1479.
  • 9. 2 Deal boards from the eastern countries, probably on the Baltic (Riley).
  • 10. 3 By a month's mind is usually understood a commemorative service held at the end of one month from a person's decease. This passage, however, seems to indicate that a month's mind also described a memorial service held daily for one month, notwithstanding Dr. Furnivall's opinion that this interpretation is "mere nonsense, originating seemingly with Polidore Virgil and some dictionary-makers" ('Earliest English Wills,' p. 141, note). The question as to what constituted a month's mind was raised and debated in Notes and Queries, 1882 and 1883 (Sixth Series, vols. vi., vii., and viii.).
  • 11. 4 Of Vintry Ward.
  • 12. 5 In 1467. He appears in Mr. Loftie's list as "Holgrave" ('Hist, of London,' ii. 316).
  • 13. 6 Town Clerk of the City, 1461-89; compiler of a book of laws and customs of the City known as 'Liber Dunthorn,' preserved at the Guildhall.
  • 14. 1 See note supra, p. 254.
  • 15. 2 The membranes are not always arranged in chronological order.
  • 16. 3 East Barming, co. Kent; unless "Theston" refers to a neighbouring place called "Teston" (Hasted's 'Kent,' vol. ii. pp. 149-53).
  • 17. 1 Over the Medway.
  • 18. 2 Or Wonersh.
  • 19. 3 Of Bishopsgate and Langbourn Wards.
  • 20. 4 The more common term is "a pair of organs," which has reference to the double bellows for the production of continuous sounds, although in the opinion of some it refers to their being made with a double row of pipes.
  • 21. 5 Plain-song is described by the late Prebendary Mackenzie Walcott ('Sacred Archæology,' s.v.) as a monotonic recitation, being the Cantus Collectarum, as distinct from the Cantus Prophetarum, Epistolarum, Evangelii, and Psalmorum each of which admitted of certain inflections. Prick-song represents the less restricted melody used in anthems and hymns. It was a name given by old writers upon music to divisions or descant upon a plain-song or ground, and was so called from the music being written or pricked down, in contradistinction to that which was performed extemporaneously.
  • 22. 1 In 1445; having served Sheriff, 1434. He built, says Stow, a granary at Leadenhall in 1419, with a fair and large chapel. Ob. 18 September, 1459. Buried in his parish church of S. Mary Woolnoth ('Survey,' Strype's ed., 1720, bk. ii. p. 84).
  • 23. 2 See his will (Part I. p. 75), where he devises to the Priory of Tortinton his mansion house in the parish of S. Swythun, together with garden, &c., with the exception of a tenter ground. It would appear that this mansion house afterwards came to be known as Drapers' Hall. If that be so, the first hall of the Drapers of London possesses more than ordinary interest, inasmuch as the mansion of Robert Aguylun, so converted to their use, is said to have been the family mansion of Henry Fitz Eylwine, the first Mayor of London (' Lib. de Antiquis,' Camd. Soc, ed. by Thomas Stapleton, Preface, p. ii, note).
  • 24. 1 From the return made by the Drapers' Company to the Livery Companies Commission appointed in 1880, it appears that the property here devised comprises tenements known as Nos. 18-23, St. Swithin's Lane, No. 101, Cannon Street, No. 105, Cheapside, No. 3, Freeman's Court, and Nos. 1-4, Honey Lane Market (Report Livery Companies Com., 1884, vol. ii. pp. 187, 188, 189, 191).
  • 25. 1 Of Vintry Ward.
  • 26. 2 In 1498.
  • 27. 3 The sum of 3l. 15s. 8d. is paid annually to the churchwardens of S. Mary Woolnoth, who undertake its specific distribution (Return made to the Commissioners by the Merchant Taylors' Company, 1884, vol. ii. p. 424, where the date of Sir John's will is given as 1507, the word trveyne having evidently been misread for seven. The same mistake occurs in Herbert's work on the Livery Companies and in Mr. Hare's Report on the Company's charities made in 1861).
  • 28. 1 "Near unto this Customer's Key [Custom House] towards the east is the said water gate, and west from it Porter's Key, then Galley Key, where the gallies were used to unlade, and land their merchandises and wares; and that part of Thames street was therefore of some called Galley row, but more commonly Petty Wales" (Stow's 'Survey,' Thoms's ed., p. 52).
  • 29. 2 Entering a convent and becoming a professed nun.
  • 30. 1 Co. Worcester. Egwin, third Bishop of Worcester, with the help of Ethelred and Kenred, Kings of Mercia, built and endowed an abbey here, A.D. 701, in honour of the Blessed Virgin, for monks of the Benedictine Order (Tanner's 'Notit. Monast.,' p. 618).
  • 31. 2 See previous note.
  • 32. 3 The advowson and patronage still remain with the Drapers' Company.
  • 33. 1 Generally known as S. Andrew Undershaft. The street of Cornhill formerly extended further eastward than at the present day.
  • 34. 2 Touching this devise to the Fishmongers' Company, Mr. Hare reported to the Charity Commissioners in 1861 that the sum of 13s. 4d. a year was deemed to be chargeable on this estate, and was carried to the account of "the half-yearly poor." The Company in their return to the Commission of 1880 set out various tenements in Fenchurch Avenue as having been acquired under this will (Report Livery Comp. Com. 1884, vol. ii. p. 263).
  • 35. 1 There is no specific mention of this charity in Mr. Hare's Report on the charities of the parish of S. Michael, Cornhill, made in 1860. He, however, states that there was a fund of 41l 13s. 4d. which was formerly held by the churchwardens in respect of sundry gifts of unknown donors for coals, and devoted to parish purposes (City Parochial Charities Com., 1880, vol. iii. p. 270).
  • 36. 1 Atterby.
  • 37. 2 Snitterby.
  • 38. 3 Waddingham.
  • 39. 1 Of Cordwainer Street Ward.
  • 40. 2 Of Bassishaw Ward.
  • 41. 3 Of Cripplegate and Coleman Street Wards successively.
  • 42. 4 Of Bishopsgate Ward.
  • 43. 1 Alderman of Cheap by prerogative in 1484 on the death of Sir Thomas Hill, then Lord Mayor, from the sweating sickness; Sheriff in 1474; Mayor in 1482-3, the year of the death of King Edward V., and of the accession of Richard III. His brother, Dr. Shaw, preached a notorious sermon at S. Paul's Cross, in which he inveighed against the character of the late king, and endeavoured to excite the feeling of the citizens in favour of the Duke of Gloucester as successor to the Crown. The Mayor himself had had commercial dealings in his capacity as a goldsmith with Gloucester, and was doubtless ready to give political support to one who had also honoured him by making him a member of the Privy Council. He is said to have left a sum of money by will (not enrolled) for rebuilding the Cripplegate.
  • 44. 2 This charity was in 1833 the subject of a decree in Chancery under an information entitled "The Attorney-General at the relation of Thomas Fortune v. Richard London and others." It was then ordered, among other things, that the annual sum of 20l. should be laid out in the purchase of bread to be distributed by the rector and churchwardens between Lady Day and Michaelmas Day every year among the poor of the parish, and that a similar sum should similarly be laid out for gifts of coal. Other sums were to be devoted to supplying the poor of the parish with blankets, butchers' meat, &c., and to defraying church expenses (Report City Parochial Charities Com., 1880, vol. iii. p. 163).
  • 45. 1 S. Olave, Hart Street.
  • 46. 2 Mitcham, co. Surrey.
  • 47. 3 An inn for students of law, situate near the church of S. Dunstan in the West, and formerly belonging to the Lords Clifford, ancestors of the Earls of Cumberland, by gift of Edward II. The six attorneys of the Marshalsea Court, better known as the Palace Court, from its causes having to be heard near the Palace in the city of Westminster, had their chambers in this inn, which was the oldest inn of Chancery.
  • 48. 4 Exactly one hundred years appear to have elapsed between the execution of this will and its enrolment (an unprecedentedly long time), unless there be some mistake in the date of the will.
  • 49. 1 Shearer of the nap of cloth.
  • 50. 2 The church of S. Michael Paternoster Church, otherwise called S. Michael Paternoster Royal, from its being situate in the street known as the Riole, was rebuilt and made collegiate by Richard Whitington, the famous Mayor and public benefactor, by royal licence granted anno 11 Henry IV.
  • 51. 3 Incorporated temp. Henry VIII. with the Clothworkers of London.