Historical antiquities, in two books the first treating in general of Great-Brettain and Ireland : the second containing particular remarks concerning Cheshire / faithfully collected out of authentick histories, old deeds, records, and evidences, by Sir Peter Leycester, Baronet ; whereunto is annexed a transcript of Doomsday-book, so far as it concerneth Cheshire, taken out of the original record.

SOME ANTIQUITIES TOUCHING CHESHIRE.

PART I.

CHAP. I.

I. OUr Island of Great Brettaine was altogether unknown both to the ancient Grecians and Romans, until the Days of Caius Julius Caesar. Bede de Historiâ Gentis Anglorum, lib. 1. cap. 2. Learned Cambden, in his Britannia Printed 1607. pag. 24, 25. Also She∣ringham de Gentis Anglorum Origine, pag. 99. For the Name of Brettaine is not to be found in any Author, Greek or Latine, before that time, as far forth as I have ever seen or heard of, Diodorus Si∣culus being the first among the Greek Authors, and Lucretius among the Latines, who made mention thereof; and both these lived about the same Age with Caesar, or a little sooner.

Wherefore we have no certain History of this Island but from Caesar downwards. The ancient Brettans were a barbarous People, and left no Writing or History of their Countrey to Posterity. Gildas, called Sapiens, is the first among the Brettans who hath left us any mention in Writing hereof, and those very short and imperfect. Now Gil∣das writ about the Year of Christ 540. and what he writ (as he confesseth in his Pro∣logue) was by Relation from beyond Sea, more than out of ancient Records and Wri∣tings of his own Countrey: for those (if any such were at all) were either burned by the Enemy's rage, or carried away by the banished Natives; so that in his time there was no such extant.

II. Now Julius Caesar, upon his second Expedition into Brettaine, Anno antè Christum natum 54. or thereabout, subdued part of Brettain, and many Cities submitted, and

yielded up themselves to the Romans. Caesar de Bello Gallico, lib. 5. in ipso initio. And the Rule of the Romans in Brettaine ceased upon the declination of the Roman Empire, after that Alaric, King of the Gothes, had taken Rome, which hapned in the Year of Christ 410. according to our vulgar Computation. So Helvicus in his Chronology; also Bede de Hist. Ang. lib. 1. cap. 11. So that the Rule or Soveraignty of the Romans over Brettaine continued almost 470 Years, as Bede computeth in the same Chapter. But Cambden in his Britannia, pag. 60. computing to Valentinian the Third, saith 476 Years.

III. But now the poor Brettans, upon the Romans withdrawing of their Forces out of Brettaine, to defend themselves, were miserably devoured by the Scots and Picts: And therefore they called in, and invited the Saxons to aid them; who came first in∣to Brettaine Anno Christi 449. saith Bede and Malmesbury. But the Brettans (to use Gil∣das's own words) perceiving the Saxons, Quasi pro patriâ pugnaturos, sed eam certiùs im∣pugnaturos, defended themselves as well as they could. But the Saxons, after they had expelled the Scots and Picts, did also by degrees root out the Brettans also; and the Saxons at last solely possessed themselves of all the South part of Brettaine, which we now call England; but disagreeing among themselves, and contending for Superiority, each Party would set up themselves (as it commonly falls out in such Cases,) and so had a Heptarchy, or seven distinct Kingdoms in England, till at last they were all swallowed up into one by that of the West-Saxons, the poor Brettans being driven into Wales and Cornwall.

IV. Egbert King of the West-Saxons, being now sole Monarch of all England, (for so Hoveden calls him, pag. 414.) and having routed Wilaf King of Mercia, and made him Tributary, (which Kingdom of Mercia was the largest in compass of all the seven, and the last of the six unsubdued) ordained, That this part of Brettaine, whereof he had now the Soveraignty, should be called England; since which time it hath gained the Name of England. Verstegan's Saxon Antiquities, p. 123. And this Edict, saith Trevisa in his Translation of Polychronicon, was when Egbert was Crowned King of all England at Winchester, after the Battel of Ellindon, Fol. 275. Now the Battel of Ellindon is pla∣ced in Anno Christi 823. by Florentius Wigorniensis and Stowe.

This Egbert also is said to have new modelled England into Shires; the word Share we use at this day for a Part or Division. Huntington, lib. 1. Hist. pag. 298. Postquàm Reges West-Sexe caeteris praevaluerunt, & Monarchiam obtinuerunt, terras in 35 Provincias dividebant. This might be Ethelwolfe, Son of Egbert: yet Egbert was the first Monarch. Ingulphus saith, Alfred (the fourth Son of Ethelwolfe) divided England into Counties, Hundreds, and Tythings, pag. 870. But Selden supposeth Ingulphus is herein mistaken, otherwise Malmesbury would have attributed the Division of Shires unto Alfred as well as Hundreds and Tythings, which he omitteth altogether, pag. 44. Therefore Shires were distinguished somewhat sooner, to wit, by Egbert; Hundreds and Tythings by Alfred. This Alfred also ordained Judges and Sheriffs, making two Officers for the Governing of a Shire, whereof before was but one Officer, called Vice-Dominus.

This was but a new Model by Egbert and Alfred: for without doubt the ancient Brettans had their Divisions of Counties, Cities and Towns, as Cook upon Littleton well observes, Sect. 248.

V. As to this new Division of Shires, Huntington in the place cited, reckons up 35. where he reckons Cornwall, Northumberland, and Cumberland, to make up the Account. But Malmesbury De Gestis Regum, lib. 2. cap. 10. pag. 63. saith, That under King Ethel∣red, Anno Domini 1016. there were but 32 Shires in England: and the Record of the two Dooms-day Books hath onely 33 Shires under William the Conqueror, Anno Christi 1086. unless we take the East-Ryding, North-Ryding and West-Ryding, there mentioned, for Shires. See Splelman's Glossary on the word Dooms-day; which three do now make up but one Shire, called Yorkshire, as it now stands divided.

Nor do we find in Dooms-day Book any mention at all of Northumberland, Cumber∣land, Westmorland, Durham, or Lancashire; howbeit part of Lancashire, as it now stands distinguished, is put under the Title of Cestershire in that Book, to wit, all that part

between the two Rivers of Ribbell and Mersey; and the rest of it I conceive was put under Euruic-Scire: So that Lancashire seems to have got and gained a distinct Name of a County or Shire since the Norman Conquest; but of later time it was made a County Palatine by the King's Charter to his Son John of Gaunt, Dated 28 die Febru∣arii, 51 Edw. 3. 1376. with all Priviledges sicùt Comes Cestriae infrâ Comitatum Ce∣striae dignoscitur habere: Confirmed by Parliament, 13 Rich. 2. 1389. Durham also hath not his Title in Dooms-day Book, but may seem there to be comprehended under Euric-Scire, or Yorkshire. So likewise Northumberland, Cumberland, and Westmorland, are either there omitted, or comprehended under Yorkshire. But soon after these were all accounted for distinct Counties or Shires; which six (as they now stand divided) Nor∣thumberland, Cumberland, Westmorland, Durham, Yorkshire, and Lancashire, were by the Romans, during their Rule in Brettaine, stiled Brigantes, that is, Robbers. In the first Age of the Saxons Rule in Brettaine, these all made up the Kingdom of Deira, as it was then called; which afterwards the Saxons called The Kingdom of the Northumbrians, so called, because they possessed all the North of England, from the River Humber in Yorkshire, to Scotland. So Cambden's Britannia, in the Preface to Yorkshire.

Polychronicon, lib. 1. cap. 49. saith thus: That if Northumberland be counted for one Shire, which reached sometime from the River Humber to the River Twede, then are in England but 32 Shires, over and above Cornwall: But if it be parted into six Shires, that is to say, Evoric-shire, or Yorkshire, Durham-shire, Northumberland, Carlisle-shire; or Cumberland, Appleby-shire, or Westmorland, and Lancashire, then are there 36 Shires besides Cornwall.

In the Conqueror's time, who Described all the Provinces of England, were found 36 Shires, and half a Shire, 52080 Towns, 45002 Parish Churches, 75000 Knights Fees, whereof Houses of Religion had 28015. But now are more Towns and Villa∣ges inclosed and inhabited then were at that time; and whereas before it was written, that Cornwall was not set in the Shires of England, it may stand among them well enough; for it is not in Wales, nor in Scotland, but it is in England; and so reckoning Cornwall, be 37 Shires in England. Thus the Monk of Chester in his Polychronicon, who writ under Edward the Third.

But the Monk erreth in his Account; for there are 33 Shires named in Dooms-day Book, with Cornwall; and if Yorkshire in Dooms-day Book have five other Shires taken out of it, and be added to the rest, then there must be in all 38 Shires, and not 37. as the Monk counteth.

And if we add Rutlandshire (which was formerly part of Northamptonshire, but since Edward Plantagenet, Son and Heir to Edmund of Langley Duke of York, was made Earl of Rutland under King Richard the Second, it hath been reckoned for a County) and also Richmondshire, which is part of Yorkshire, being now also put into the number of our Counties, then have we just 40 Counties in England at this present.

VI. Wales was newly divided into Shires and Hundreds, Anno Domini 1283. 11 Edw. 3. saith Stow in his Annals; in which Year Wales was totally subdued by Ed∣ward the First, who then built two strong Castles there, one at Conway, the other at Caernarvan.

Cambden saith there were onely six Shires in Wales in the Reign of Edward the First, constituted; and the rest were ordained by Parliamentary Authority under Henry the Eighth; in his Britannia Printed 1607. pag. 115. But the Statute of 34 & 35 Hen. 8. cap. 26. tells us, That eight Shires were of ancient and long time, to wit, the Shires of Glamorgan, Caermarthen, Pembroke, Cardigan, Flint, Caernarvan, Anglesey, and Merioneth; but other four were made and appointed by the Statute of 27 Hen. 8. cap. 26. besides Monmouthshire, to wit Radnor, Brecknock, Montgomery, and Denbigh; and divers Do∣minions and Lordships in the Marches of Wales, were then also united and annexed to Shropshire, Herefordshire, and Gloucestershire; so that there were five Shires newly made under Henry the Eighth, and eight Shires under Edward the First, but some now ac∣count Monmouth among the Shires of England, as Cambden and Speed, and so make 41 Counties in England, because in that Statute of 27 Hen. 8. cap. 26. it is made subject to

the Chancery of England, and to the King's Judges of Westminster, as all other the King's Subjects be within every Shire of the Realm of England. By the same reason we may now account all the 13 Shires of Wales for Counties of England, because by the same Statute of 27 Hen. 8. the Dominion of Wales is from thenceforth incor∣porated, united, and annexed to the Realm of England.

Yet it seems to me more proper, that Monmouth be placed among the Shires of Wales, in regard it was formerly part of Wales, to preserve the memory thereof; and so we have at this day 13 Shires in Wales.

CHAP. II.

Of the Kingdom of Mercia.

I. FOr my better method and clearer passage to the Earls of Chester, it will not be amiss briefly to set down the Kings of Mercia, during the Heptarchy of the Saxons in England, under which our County of Cheshire is comprised.

This Kingdom of Mercia began Anno Domini 626. under Penda sirnamed The Strong, Son of Wibba: Howbeit Huntington brings it somewhat higher, even to begin under Crida, who died Anno Domini 596. lib. 2. pag. 315. whose Descent he also sets down out of the ancient Saxons Chronicle to Woden, pag. 316. and the Descent of Woden, Malmesbury reckons up,* 1.1 (lib. 2. de Gestis Regum, cap. 2. ad initium) out of the English Chronicles, to Noah. Also Hoved. Annal. pars prior, p. 414. brings it up to Adam: Which Descent, although we may conceive it true, as far as is set down, yet it carries great im∣probabilities along with it, in respect of the long Tract of Time it contains: for Woden is but the tenth Ancestor from Crida inclusively, and Noah but the sixteenth from Wo∣den, according to Malmesbury: So all the Generations from Noah to Crida are but 26. which in all probability cannot contain much above 600 Years; and so Crida living after Christ 550 Years, as Huntington clearly expresseth, the Generation where Noah is placed cannot exceed 100 Years before Christ, or thereabouts. Now Noah lived above 2000 Years before Christ, as is evident by the Scripture: and the Generations from Noah to Christ are reckoned up 68, Luke cap. 3. and according to Matthew, from Noah to Christ are reckoned up 52 Generations, which far exceed the proportion and number here set down by Malmesbury: Besides this, that Bedwegius should be the Son of Sem (as Hoveden hath it) is much to be suspected; or (as Malmesbury sets it down) that he should be the Son of Stresaeus, and Stresaeus reported to be the Son of Noah, seems likewise incredible, forasmuch as no such Son is recorded in the Text, Genesis cap. 10. either to Noah or Sem. But to return.

II. The Kingdom of Mercia was otherwise called Midel-Engle, or Mediterranea Anglia, Huntington, lib. 2. Histor. pag. 317. and was distinguished into the Northern and Southern Mercians. The South-Mercians were 5000 Families, and were severed by the River Trent from the North-Mercians, who contained 7000 Families: and this distinction was in the time of Peda, Son of Penda. Huntington, lib. 3. pag. 332.

It was called Mercia, not from the River Mersey, running from the corner of Wirral in Cheshire, because that River was the utmost Limit thereof Westward; but I rather be∣lieve that River took Denomination from this Kingdom, which it Bounded on that side; and was called Mercia, because it abutted or bordered upon part of all or most of the other Kingdoms of the Heptarchy: for Marche in the Saxon Tongue signifieth A Border or Limit: Hence we call the parts of Wales next bordering upon England, The Marches of Wales; and at this day we call the utmost Border of a piece of Land, A Land-March, now pronounced Land-Mark, which is as much as A Mere or Boundary.

III. I shall now briefly run over the Kings of Mercia since the Saxons first set up their Rule here, with the Years of their several Reigns.

1. Crida died about the Year of Christ 596. He began his Reign Anno Domini 586. and Reigned ten Years.

2. VVibba, Son of Crida. He began his Reign Anno 596. and Reigned twenty Years.

3. Ceorlus, Son of VVibba. He began his Reign Anno 616. and Reigned ten Years.

4. Penda, sirnamed The Strong, Son of VVibba, slew Edwin and Oswald,* 1.2 Kings of Nor∣thumberland, in several Battels. Oswald was slain the fifth day of August, Anno Domini 642. Oswald was a holy Man, and many Churches and Chappels were Consecrated and Founded in honour of him. This Penda was slain by Oswy, Bro∣ther of Oswald in the Year 656. in Battel. He began his Reign Anno 626. and Reigned thirty Years.

5. Peda, or Weda, Son of Penda, Married Alflede, Daughter of Oswy King of Nor∣thumberland, and was the first King of Mercia that received the Christian Faith. He received half of Mercia by the Gift of Oswy his Father-in-law, to wit, South-Mercia. This Oswy Founded Lichfield Church, and made Dwina a Scotchman Bi∣shop thereof, Anno Domini 656. He was the first Bishop of Mercia. Stow. pag. 67. This Peda began his Reign Anno 656. and Reigned three Years.

6. Wulfere, Son of Penda, after the Death of his Brother Peda, succeeded King of Mercia: for the Nobility of Mercia, Jumin, Eaba, and Eadbert, did rebell against Oswy, and set up Wulfere, who Married Ermenhild, Daughter of Erconbert King of Kent, and had Issue by her, Kenred a Son, and Werburge a Daughter, that holy Virgin, who died at Chester, and there buried. Will. de Malmesbury, lib. 1. de Gestis Regum, cap. 4. This Wulfere was the first of the English Kings who committed Simony, and sold the Bishoprick of London to one VVina. He killed two of his own Sons, Ulfade and Rufin, because they went to be instructed in the Christian Faith by St. Chad Bishop of Lichfield, whose Bodies Ermenhild the Queen buried in a Sepulchre of Stone, where after she Founded a Priory, called The Priory of Stones, in Staffordshire. Stow. pag. 69. He began his Reign Anno 659. and Reigned seventeen Years.

7. Ethelred, Brother to VVulfere, erected a Bishoprick at VVorcester. He began his Reign Anno 675. and Reigned twenty nine Years.

8. Kenred, Son of VVulfere, in the fifth Year of his Reign went to Rome, and became a Monk in St. Peters Church in Rome, where he continued all his Life. He began his Reign Anno 704. and Reigned five Years.

9. Ceolred, Son of Ethelred, Fought stoutly against Ina, King of the VVest-Saxons. Ceolred was buried at Lichfield. He began his Reign Anno 708. and Reigned eight Years.

10. Ethelbald the Proud, whom Malmesbury stiles Pronepos Pendae ex Alwio fratre, Reigned peaceably one and forty Years. This Ethelbald, and almost all the No∣bility of Mercia, were much addicted to Adultery, rejecting their Wives, as ap∣pears by the Letter of Boniface, Archbishop of Mentz and German Legate, to Ethel∣bald, about Anno 747. He Founded the Abbey of Crowland, and was slain by his own Subjects, by the procurement of Berared, at the Battel of Segiswold, within three Miles of Tamworth, as he was Fighting against Cuthred King of the VVest-Saxons, Anno 757. Stow. and his Body was Interred at Ripedon or Ripon. He was Son of Alwy, Son of Eoppa, Son of VVibba. Matth. VVestminst. pag. 264. He be∣gan his Reign Anno 716. and Reigned one and forty Years.

11. Berared, an Usurper, was slain by Offa, and had an end meet for a Traytor. He began his Reign Anno 757. and Reigned one Year.

12. Offa was Cosin to Ethelbald, scilicet Son of Dingferth, Son of Eanulf, Son of Osmod, Son of Eoppa, Son of VVibba. Florentius VVigorniensis, pag. 274. He overcame in Battel Kinulf King of the VVest-Saxons. He built the famous Mona∣stery of black Monks at St. Albans, Anno 793. in the three and thirtieth Year of

his Reign, and Endowed it with Lands, witnessed by himself, Egfrid his Son, nine Kings, fifteen Bishops, ten Dukes, &c. He translated the Arch-bishop's See from Canterbury to Lichfield, and Founded the Abbey of Bathe. He made a great Dike or Ditch between VVales and the Kingdom of Mercia, which is called Offa's Dike, and whereof part is yet to be seen. Stow. pag. 71. He gave to the Pope a yearly Rent out of every House in his Kingdom, stiled The Charter of Peter-Pence. Polychron. lib. 5. cap. 25. His Wifes Name was Quendrida; whose Daugh∣ter she was, I find not: By whom he had Issue, Egfrid a Son; Ethelburge a Daugh∣ter Married Brictric, King of the VVest-Saxons, Anno 787. whom Florentius calleth Eadburge, pag. 280. Elfled another Daughter, was second Wife to Ethelred King of Northumberland. Speed's Hist. pa. 362. and Elfrid another Daughter, betook her self to the Monastery of Croyland. He died at Ofley, saith Stow (Quaere if not mistaken for Ocley,) the twenty ninth day of July, and was buried at a Chappel without the Town of Bedford. He began his Reign Anno 758. and Reigned thirty nine Years.

13. Egfrid, Son of Offa, died young. He Reigned but 141 Days, saith Florentius, pag. 281. and was buried at St. Albans. He began to Reign Anno 796.

14. Kenulfe, an heroick and noble Prince, succeeded King of Mercia. He was Son of Cuthbert, and Trinepos VVibba, that is, The Sixth in Descent from VVibbae, saith Matthew of VVestminster, pag. 291. He took Eadbert, (or Egbert as others call him) sirnamed Pren, King of Kent, whom he carried away Prisoner triumphantly, An. 798. and not long after, when he had built VVinchelcombe Church, on the Day of the Dedication thereof, he set his Prisoner free at the Altar of that Church, and made Cuthred King of Kent in his stead. So VVestminster and others. He also Founded the Church of St. Ethelbert in Hereford, the Bishop's See; and by Elfride his Wife had Issue Kenelm a Son, and two Daughters, Quendrede and Bur∣genhild. He died Anno Christi 819. saith Florentius; Anno 821. saith Westminster, and buried at Winchelcome Abbey. He began his Reign Anno 796. and Reigned twenty four Years.

15. Kenelm, Son of Kenulfe, a Boy of seven Years old, was murthered within few Months after his Father's Death by one Ascebert his Governor, who taking him into a Wood, cut off his Head, and buried him under a Thorn Tree. This was done by the procurement of Quendrede his Sister; whereby Kenelm obtained the Name of a Martyr. His Body being found, was buried at Winchelcombe. He be∣gan to Reign Anno 819.

16. Ceolwulfe, Brother of Kenulfe, succeeded King. He was deposed by Bernulfe, and driven out of the Kingdom, and had a Daughter called Cenedrith. Spelman's Coun∣cels, pag. 333. He began to Reign Anno 820. and Reigned one Year.

17. Beornulfe, elected King Anno 821. who in the third Year of his Reign was over∣come in Battel at Ellandon, by Egbert King of the West-Saxons, Anno 823. but as Westminster puts it, Anno 825. and was slain in Battel against the East-Angles, Anno 824. He began his Reign Anno 821. and Reigned three Years.

18. Ludecan, Cosin to Bernulfe, waging War with the East-Angles, in revenge of Bernulfe, was himself killed, with five Captains of his Army, 826. He began to Reign Anno 824. and Reigned two Years.

19. Wilafe, or Wiglafe, succeeded King; but was subdued by Egbert King of the West-Saxons, Anno 827. under whom he enjoyed his Kingdom, paying Tribute. Wimund, Son of Wilafe, Married Elflede, Daughter of Ceolwulfe King of Mercia, and had a Son called Wilstan. Ingulphus, pag. 858. slain by Berfert. This Wilafe be∣gan his Reign Anno 826. and Reigned thirteen Years.

20. Berthulfe, Brother to Wilafe, was also Tributary to the King of the West-Saxons, till at last he was chased beyond the Seas, by the Sea-Rovers of Denmark. He had a Son called Berfert, who killed his Cosin Wilstan, June 1. Vigiliâ Pentecostes, Anno 850. Florentius, pag. 295. He began his Reign Anno 839. and Reigned thirteen Years.

21. Burdred, or Burhred, paying Tribute, enjoyed it twenty Years, and then being

driven out of his Countrey, fled to Rome. The Danes deliver his Kingdom to Ceolwulfe, sometime Servant to Burhred, on Condition that he should resign it whensoever the Danes should demand it, Anno 874. but not long after King Alfred got it. This Burdred began his Reign Anno 852. and Reigned twenty Years.

So that King Alfred prevailing over the Danes, united the Kingdom of Mercia unto that of the West-Saxons, inseparably from this time, and was absolute Monarch of all England; and so the Kingdom of Mercia failed Anno Domini 875. which, if we reckon from King Penda, had stood about 250 Years; but if we reckon from Crida, about 290 Years.

CHAP. III.

Of the Governors of Mercia, Substituted by King Alfred and his Successors.

TO pass by those former Earls of Chester, namely Edol, or Edolfe, who lived in the time of King Vortiger the Briton, about the Year of Christ 471. stiled Earl of Caer∣legion, or Chester, by Fabian in his Chronicle, Part 5. cap. 89. and also Curfale, or, as by some he is written, Sursalem Earl of Chester, in the time of King Arthur, Anno Domini 616. as Geffrey Monmouth affirms, one of Arthur's Knights of the Round Table; I shall now speak of those Earls, who are more certainly recorded in our Histories of credit, but not yet Earls of particular Places.

I find in Florentius, sub Anno Domini 800. that Ethelmundus Dux Merciorum, coming out of Mercia, and passing Kimeresford with an Army, was met with by Weolhstan Dax Wiltoniensium, and had a cruel Battel, Amboque Duces* 1.3 occisi; but the Victory fell to the Wiltshiremen: by which words, I conceive, the Author means no more than a Ge∣neral, expressed by the word Dux. The two Generals of the Armies met and Fought, and were both slain.

I. I now proceed to the chief Governors of Mercia from the time of King Alfred. The first I meet with (who under Alfred Governed Mercia) is stiled Ethered, or Ethelred, who Married Elflede, Daughter to King Alfred. His Title I find variously delivered: by Higden, the Monk of Chester, he is stiled Ethelredus Dux & Subregulus Merciorum. So likewise by Matthew of Westminster. Also by Hoveden and Huntington, sometimes Dux, sometimes Subregulus, sometimes Dominus Merciorum. Malmesbury, De Gestis Re∣gum, lib. 2. cap. 4. calls him Comes Merciorum. The most usual Title in all those ancient Authors is Dux; which in those Times seems to be all one with an Earl, or Comes. By all it is apparent, that he was then the chief Governor of Mercia under the King; and he lived in the Reigns of King Alfred and Edward the Elder. I desire I may have liberty to render these Titles by the Name of Earl.

The Acts of Earl Ethelred, and of Elflede his Countess.

Ethelred and his Countess restored Caerleon, that is, Legecestria, now called Chester,* 1.4 after it was destroyed by the Danes, and enclosed it with new Walls, and made it nigh such two as it was before; so that the Castle that was sometime by the Water with∣out the Walls, is now in the Town within the Walls. So Trevisa in his Translation of Polychronicon, lib. 6. cap. 4. whereunto agreeth Florentius and Matthew of Westminster. But Hoveden placeth it in Anno 905. Which Town of Chester remained in possession of the Britons or Welshmen, till it was taken by Egbert, the Saxon Monarch of England, about the Year 824. Trevisa, lib. 5. cap. 28.

* 1.5Also he and his Countess translated the Bones of St. Oswald, King and Martyr, from Bardeny to Glocester, where they built an Abbey in honour of St. Peter. Polychronicon.

[ 911] The Danes breaking their Truce with King Edward and this Ethelred, wasted Mercia, and were beaten by the English at Totenhale in Staffordshire; and afterwards at Wodenes∣field, within a Mile of Wolverhampton in Staffordshire, was a great Battel Fought on the fifth day of August in the same Year, wherein the Danes were routed, and three of their Kings slain, Healfdene, Eywysle, and Igwar. Stow. Ethelwerd in Chronico suo, lib. 4. cap. 4. and Trevisa, fol. 287.

[ 912] Ethelred Eximiae vir Probitatis, Dux & Patricius, Dominus & Subregulus Merciorum, decessit, Anno 912. So Florentius; whose Death is placed by Hoveden sub Anno 908. He had onely one Daughter, called Elfwine or Algiva; at whose Birth Elflede her Mother was so much astonished with the pain, that ever after she refrained the Em∣braces of her Husband for almost 40 Years, saith Matth. Westminst. pag 359. protesting often, That it was not fit for a King's Daughter to be given to a Pleasure that brought so much pain along with it; and thereupon grew an heroick Virago, like the ancient Amazons, as if she had changed her Sex as well as her Mind. Ingulphus, pag. 871. Malmesbury, pag. 46.

[ 913] This Lady Elflede is variously written by our ancient Historians, as Edelfled, Ethel∣fled, Egelfled, and Elflede; and from the time of her Husbands Death she Governed all Mercia excellently, except London and Oxford, which King Edward her Brother retained to himself.

She built a Fort at Sceargete, and another at Bridge upon Severn, which I conceive is now called Bridgenorth.

[ 914] She repaired Tamworth nigh Lichfield, and built a Fort at Stafford.

[ 915] She built the Town of Eadsbury in the Forrest of Cheshire, whereof now nothing re∣mains, but that we now call The Chamber of the Forrest. And the same Year she built Warwick.

[ 916] She built also Ciricbyrig, now called Monkes-Kirkby in Warwickshire, saith Dugdale in his Warwickshire, pag. 50. a. and another called Weadbirig; and a third called Run∣covan, but now called Runcorne, in Cheshire. This was long since demolished. Poly∣chronicon. Florentius.

[ 917] She took Brecannemere, or Brecknock, and carried away the Queen of Wales, and 33 of her Men, Prisoners into Mercia.

[ 918] She took the Town of Darby from the Danes, and the whole Province thereof. In Storming of which Town she lost four of her chiefest Officers, antè Calendas Augusti.

[ 919] Elfled died at Tamworth the twelfth day of June, Anno 919. and was buried in St. Peter's Church at Glocester. Florentius, Westminster, Polychronicon, and Huntington. But Hoveden placeth her Death sub Anno 915. And so Ethelwerd, lib. 4. cap. 4. So much do Writers vary for the time.

In the same Year wherein she died, King Edward built a Fort or Town at Thelwall in Cheshire, and Garrison'd it; and also made another Garrison at Manchester, which was then in the outmost Border of the Kingdom of Northumberland this way; and took Mercia from his Neece Elfwin into his own Hands. Florentius. Polychronicon.

I cannot here pass by Henry Huntington's, contradiction of himself, Lib. quinto Histor. pag. 353. where he tells us, That Edred Dux Merciae died Anno 8 Edwardi Regis Angliae, which falls Anno Christi 908. And in the same Page a little after he says, That Ethe∣red Dux Merciae, Father of Edelfled, died in the eighteenth Year of King Edward's Reign; which must needs be a mistake, unless there were two Ethereds Governors of Mercia successively, and two Elfledes, Mother and Daughter; of which I find no mention in other Authors.

The Countess Elflede was a prudent Woman, and of a manly Spirit. She much assisted King Edward her Brother, as well by Councel as by her Actions. She was be∣loved of her Friends, and feared by her Enemies. Of whom Huntington hath these Verses, lib. 5. Hist. pag. 354.

O Elfleda Potens, O terror Virgo Virorum, Victrix Naturae, nomine digna Viri! Tu quo Splendidior fieres, Natura Puellam, Te probitas fecit nomen habere viri: Te mutare decet sed solùm nomina Sexûs: Tu Regina Potens, Réxque Trophaea parans. Jam nèc Caesarei tantum meruêre Triumphi: Caesare Splendidior Virgo, Virago, Vale.

II. Alfere is the next Governor of Mercia: He is also stiled Dux Merciae. He is Witness to a Charter of King Edgar's, made to the Abbey of Croyland, Anno 966. Ingulphus, pag. 882. & 888.

Anno 975. he destroyed many Abbeys, turning out the Abbots with their Monks, and bringing in Clergy-men with their Wives. Hoveden, pag. 427. Florentius, pag. 361.

Anno 983. Alfere Dux Merciorum, and Cosin to King Edgar, died; and Alfric his Son succeeded in that Government. Florentius, pag. 363. And if we may believe Malmesbury, pag. 61. he was eaten to death with Lice.* 1.6

III. Alfric, Son of Alfere, succeeded his Father, and was Dux Merciae by Successi∣on, Anno 983. Huntington calls him Consul Alfricus, Earl Alfric, lib. 5. Hist. pag. 357. For Dux and Consul in these Ages were Synonima.

He was banished England, Anno 986. Florentius. and not long after was received again into favor, contrary to the Rule of State-Policy; for, Quem semel gravitèr lae∣seris, non facilè tibi fidelem credideris: Never think that Man will be faithful to you, whom you have before greatly injured and distasted.

Wherefore, Anno 992. this Alfric being made Chief Governor of the Forces which King Ethelred had collected, and preparing a great Navy against the Danes, gave private Intelligence to the Enemy; and the Night before the Navy was to Engage, he privily conveyed himself to the Danish Fleet, and fled away with the Enemy. But the English Ships pursuing, slew many of the Danes, and took the Ship wherein Alfric was, he himself by flight scarcely escaping. Florentius, pag. 365, 366.

Anno 993. King Ethelred commanded that the Eyes of Algar, Son of Alfric, should be put out; which was effected. Florentius. Howbeit, Huntington saith, pag. 358. that Algar's Eyes were caused to be pluck'd out by one Edwyn; which may stand with the other, as employed by the King to see it done.

Anno 1003. this Traytor Alfric feigned himself sick, when he should have fought with the Danes.

Anno 1016. Alfricus Dux was slain in Battel against the Danes, with many other No∣blemen of England. Florentius, pag. 388.

IV. Edric, sirnamed Streon, a most perfidious Man, [ 1007] was made Duke or Governor of Mercia by King Ethelred, Anno 1007. in which Year the King of England agreed to pay thirty six thousand Pounds Tribute-money to the Danes, so as they would desist from their Rapines. Florentius, pag. 373. with whom also agrees Huntington, Hoveden, and Polychronicon. Onely Westminster saith, he was made Duke of Mercia, Anno 1003.

He was the Son of Egelricus, of low Kindred, and to whom nevertheless his elo∣quent Tongue and crafty Wit procured great Riches and Honor; and for Envy,* 1.7 Fals∣hood, Pride, and Cruelty, exceeded all Men at that time.

He had to his Brothers, Brihtric, Alfric, Goda, Agelwin, Agelward, and Agelmer,* 1.8 Fa∣ther of Wulnoth, Father of Godwin Earl of the West-Saxons.

He married Edgitha, Daughter of King Ethelred. Hoveden, pag. 430.* 1.9 and had Issue Wulfege, and Wegete, two Sons.

His unworthy Acts Historians Record thus.

Anno 1006. he murthered Duke Alfhelme (whom VVestminster calls Ethelstane) by a Wile; for having invited him to a Banquet at Shrewsbury, about the third or fourth

day of his Entertainment, he took him along with him on Hunting, and led him into a Wood, where he had laid in ambush a Butcher of Shrewsbury, called Godwin Port∣hund, whom he had hired to kill Alfhelme. This Godwin, spying his opportunity, when all the rest of the Company were busied in Hunting, fell upon Alfhelme, and murthered him: And shortly after, King Ethelred caused the Eyes of Edric's two Sons, VVulfeage and VVegate, to be put out at Cocham, or Cosham, where the King then lived. Florentius, pag. 372.

Anno 1015. he guilefully got Sigeferth and Morcar, Sons of Earngrime, into his Chamber, where he caused them to be killed secretly; and also endeavored secretly to have slain Edmund Prince of England: And not long after, having gotten forty Ships well Manned with Danish Soldiers, he revolted to Canutus King of the Danes. Florentius, pag. 382. Hoveden, pag. 433.

Sigeferth and Morcar are stiled Earls of Northumberland by VVestminster; whose Lands the King seised, as forfeited by their Treason.

To omit many other of his Treacheries, Anno 1016. Edric most perfidiously caused King Edmund, sirnamed Ironside, to be murthered: for he caused his Son to thrust a sharp Knife into the King's Fundament, as he was at the House of Office exonerating himself: And this was done when the King lodged at Oxford, on the last day of No∣vember. Matt. VVestminster, pag. 401. But Malmesbury, pag. 72. saith, Edric corrupted two of the King's Bed-chamber to thrust an Iron Hook into his Fundament, as he was exonerating himself; so was the common Fame, saith he. Howbeit, Florentius and Hoveden both tell us, That King Edmund died at London, about the Feast of St. Andrew the Apostle.

At last this Edric had a just Reward for all his Villanies; for Anno 1017. Cnut, the Danish King, caused him to be Beheaded, after he had told him what he had done to King Edmund, and set his Head upon the Tower of London; for he said he would make him higher than all the Noblemen of England. Others say, That for fear of Tumult, he was privately strangled, and his Body thrown into Thames: So VVestmin∣ster, pag. 402. Vide Ingulphum, pag. 892.

By Edric's Counsel, Cnut banished Edwine, Brother to Edmund Ironside; and also Edward and Edmund, Sons to King Edmund Ironside.

[ 1018] V. Leofric is the next Governor of Mercia I meet with. He is the first that I find stiled Earl of Chester in express words. Henry Huntington, lib. 6. pag. 366. Leofricus Consul Nobilissimus Cestriae. He is also stiled Earl of Leycester by Ingulphus, pag. 891. Howbeit in truth he was now Earl of all Mercia, whereof those Counties were Mem∣bers or Branches; and was one of the Primest Counsellors among all the Nobles of England, and very gracious with his Prince. He lived in the several Reigns of King Cnut, Harald sirnamed Harefoot, Hardy-Cnut, and Edward sirnamed The Confessor.

But give me leave here, by way of Digression, to explain the Title of Earl, which we give unto them; for hitherto, before this Leofric, they have most usually by anci∣ent Authors been stiled Duces Merciae: But from Leofric downwards, they are usually stiled Comites Merciae.

Wherefore it is to be observed, That under the Saxons, the subordinate Titles of Temporal Honour, were those of Ethelinge, Ealdorman, and Thane, or Theigne. The Thanes were answerable to our Barons: The Ealdormen, usually stiled Aldermanni in the old Latin Translations of the Saxon Laws, were such as had Provinces or Coun∣ties under their Government, and signifies as much as Senior, or Senator, in Latin; ex∣pressed sometimes by Subregulus, Regulus, Patricius, Princeps, Dux; and in Saxon, by Heretoga; sometimes by Comes, and Consul. Selden's Tit. Hon. pag. 605. Ethelinge was a Title attributed to those of the Blood-Royal, Sons and Brothers to the King; and signifies as much as Nobly Born: which, in the times of the Saxons, was in Latin expressed Clyto, from the Greek Word 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, which signifies Famous, Noble, or Emi∣nent.

About King Ethelstan's Reign, the Word Earl was received in England, as a Sync∣nima

to Etheling; and so denoted the Sons or Brothers of the King, and not an Earl, as at this day it is used for a Special Dignity. Selden, Tit. Hon. pag. 604. The word Earl coming into England with the Danes, in whose Language Erlig at this day sig∣nifies as much as Noble, or Honourable. And after the Danish Power encreased in England under King Cnut, the Name of Earl was fixed on those who before were by the Saxons called Ealdormen; and the Saxon Title Ethelinge, no more expressed by the word Earl. The Title of Ealdorman continued until about the Year 1020. expressed by these words in Latin, Duces, Principes, Comites, &c. Selden, Tit. Hon. pag. 609. But from the Norman Conquest, Earl and Comes, most usually have translated each other: And therefore because these Governors of Mercia, first stiled Duces, were also after∣wards stiled Comites, and Consules, I give them the Title of Earls.

Howbeit, in truth, the Titles of Dux and Comes, used by the ancient Historians of our Nation, and also frequently found in old Latin Charters under our Saxon Kings about 800 Years after Christ, did then signifie with us no other than Chief Governors of Provinces and Counties under the King, and promiscuously used in that Age for the same Title. So were also Consul, and Subregulus.

But though Dux and Comes were promiscuously used by Florentius, Huntington, Hove∣den, and other old Authors; yet I find in Latin Chartes of those Ages, many stiled Duces, and others Comites, in the same Charters; as we find in Ingulphus: Nay, you may observe in the Subscriptions of those Ages, this Order;—First Bishops, then Ab∣bots, then Duces, then Comites, then Minister, which in those Chartes denotes a Thane or Lord Baron, &c. And this, as it were, by a constant Course and Order: So that by Duces, somewhat more than by Comites seems to be understood. Comes sine dubio de Provinciarum Comitibus dicitur, qui Populum & judiciariâ Potestate gubernabant, & arma∣tâ manu tuebantur, saith Spelman on the word Comes, which properly and commonly was of old time used for A Governor; and such Provinces as were under the Jurisdiction of such Comes, were called Comitatus, or Counties. The Comes had also his Vice-Comes, or Sheriff, sometimes also called Vice-Dominus, which was substituted under the Comes, for the Rule of his County, in those elder Ages.

Quâ autèm differebat munus Ducis & Comitis, quâ Territorium, non habeo quod asseram, saith Spelman in his Glossary, on the word Dux, pag. 233. a. For the opinion (as there he addeth) of those Men who conceive the Title Dux to be given to such as Governed ma∣ny Shires or Counties, and that of Comes to be attributed to such as Governed but one County, is not clearly proved, nor allowed of; neither of those who make Dux to be meant only of such who were Chief Commanders over such Provinces in Military Affairs, and Comes onely of the Chief Magistrate in the Civil and Judiciary Govern∣ment, according to the Laws within his County.

Certain it is, these Titles were Officiary in those Ages, and were sometimes Feu∣dal, and sometimes conferred at the Pleasure of the Prince. Selden, Tit. Hon. pag. 615. But the Title Dux, or Duke, became not a peculiar Title of Place and Dignity with us in England, as it is now used, before 11 Edw. 3. 1337. when the Black Prince was crea∣ted Duke of Cornwal. And now to return to Leofric.

Concerning the Descent of this Earl Leofric, Cambden in his Britannia, at the end of Leycestershire, reckons it up in this Order.—Leofric Earl of Leycester in the time of Ethelbald King of Mercia, Anno Salutis 716. to whom succeeded in a direct Line, Algar the First, Algar the Second, Leofric the Second, Leofstan or Leofwine, Leofric the Third (Earl of Mercia) of whom I now speak: Which Descent Cambden there pro∣fesseth to have received from a great Antiquary, Thomas Talbot, who had collected the same out of the King's Records. See this Descent also in Monasticon, 1 Part, pag. 304. and in Burton's Description of Leycestershire, pag. 167. The same followed by Dug∣dale in his VVarwickshire, pag. 87. So easily doth Error spread, being once broached.

I will now shew where that Descent is defective.

Leucitus, mis-writ for Leuricus, or Leofric, Comes Leycestriae, Anno Domini 716. tempo∣re Ethelbaldi Regis Merciorum. This appears by the Charter of the said Ethelbald made

to the Abbey of Croyland, as you may find it at large in the History of Ingulphus, pag. 852. But for this Leofric's Wife, Issue, or Successor, no History or Record (which I have hitherto met withal) makes up the wide breach of Descents to the time of Al∣gar the First above-mentioned, containing the Revolution of 120 Years, or therea∣bouts: So that this Leofric cannot be the Father of Algar the First there mentioned.

* 1.10Algar the First, stiled Algarus Comes Leycestriae Senior, sub Regno Wiglafi Regis Merci∣orum. Ingulphus, pag. 860. about the Year 836. He was a great Benefactor to the Ab∣bey of Croyland.

Algar the Second, stiled Algarus Comes Leycestriae Junior, Filius Algari Comitis, lived in the time of Beorred King of Mercia, Anno Domini 860. Ingulphus, pag. 863. He was slain by the Danes in Battel at Kesteven in Lincoln-shire, Anno Domini 870. Ingul∣phus, pag. 865, 866. Nor doth Ingulphus call them Earls of Leycester, though I sup∣pose them so; but onely Algarus Comes Senior, and Junior: Of what Family, he men∣tions not.

Here likewise is another great Interruption, from Anno 870. to Anno 1000. when Leofwine lived, containing about 120 Years more, which the Descent above fills up very improbably, onely one Descent of Leofric the Second, to fill up 120 Years.

{fleur-de-lys} The Descents from Algar the Second, to Leofwine here, are much desired to be filled up, and proved by good Authority.

Leofwine Earl of Leycester flourished under King Ethelred, about the Year of Christ 1000. He was Son of _____ _____ and Married _____ _____ and had Issue Leofric Earl of Mercia, and Normannus, one of the Prime Nobles to Edric Streon Ducis Merciae, which Norman became Protector of Croyland Abbey by Covenant during his Life; for which he had the Mannor of Badby given him for 100 Years, Anno 1017. Ingulphus, pag. 891, & 898. Hoveden, pag. 437, & 442. Also Edwine, ano∣ther Son, slain by Griffith King of Wales, Anno Domini 1039. Monasticon, 1 Pars, pag. 134. And Godwin, another Son. Monasticon, 1 Pars, pag. 130.

Leofric, Son of Earl Leofwin, was the fifth Earl or Governor of Mercia: He is some∣times stiled Earl of Leycester, and sometimes Earl of Chester, as I have before shewed. He was Witness to a Charter made by King Cnut to the Abbey of Croyland, Anno Do∣mini 1032. when Cnut also gave to that Abbey a Golden Cup, subscribed in these words,—✚ Ego Leofricus Comes Concessi. ✚ Ego Algarus Filius Leofrici Comitis astiti, [ 1017] &c. Ingulphus, pag. 893. Hoveden tells us, pa. 437. That in Anno Christi 1018. when the Traytor Edric Streon was put to death by King Cnut, then also were put to death with him Dux Normannus Filius Leofwini Ducis, Frater scilicet Leofrici Comitis, & Ethelwaudus Filius Agelmari Ducis,* 1.11 & Brictricus Filius Alfegi Damnoniensis Satrapae: Leofricum pro Normanno Germano suo Rex Constituit Ducem, & cum post modum valde charum habuit. I know not what he means here by Constituit Ducem, unless he means General or Governor over all Mercia, or else, that he now had the Earldom of his Brother Norman added, whom Ingulphus, pag. 912. stiles Vice-Comes Edrice, id est, Sub∣stitute of Mercia.

This Leofric is said to have a Sister called Ermenhild, Mother to Hugh Lupus Earl of Chester: So the Record cited in Monasticon, 1 Pars, pag. 305. b. Sed quaere: For that Re∣cord is most grosly mistaken in many Places of it.

This Leofric married Godiva Sister of Thorold de Bukenhale. Sheriff of Lincolnshire. Ingulphus, pag. 913, 914. Possibly he was descended from that Thorold whom Ingulphus stiles Vice-Dominus Lincolniensis, sub Anno 851. pag. 861.

He and his Countess Godiva built or enriched these Monasteries, viz. Coventry, Leon, Wenloke, Worcester, Evesham, and two Monasteries of St. John Baptist, and St. Werburge in Chester, and the Church of St. Mary-Stow, which Eadnothus Bishop of Lincoln built. Florentius, pag. 419. Hoveden, pag. 444.

The same Godiva, or, as Florentius writes her, Godgiva, freed the Town of Coventry from all Toll, except the Toll of Horses, by riding naked through the Town, without

any thing to cover her but her Hair; which Condition performed, Earl Leofric granted the Townsmen a Freedom by Charter. Polychronicon, lib. 6. cap. 26. Westminster, pag. 424. which Charter Mr. Dugdale (in his Warwickshire, pag. 86.) conceives rather a Freedom from Servile Tenure, than onely Toll.

This Illustrious Leofric died at his own Town of Bromley, the last day of August, [Obiit 1057] An∣no Domini 1057. So Florentius, and Hoveden, pag. 444. and also Matt. Westminster; and was buried at Coventry, in the Monastery which he had built there, the richest Monaste∣ry then in England.

VI. Algar, Son of Earl Leofric, succeeded his Father in the Earldom of Mercia, Anno Domini 1057. Hoveden, pag. 444. and is stiled Earl of Chester by Huntington, pag. 366. and also Earl of Leycester by Ingulphus, pag. 898.

Anno Domini 1053. the Earldom of the East-Saxons (which before Harold Son of Earl Godwin held) was given to this Algar. And in the Year 1056. he was banished by Edward the Confessor; but by the aid of Griffith King of Wales, after the Slaughter of many, he was reconciled to his Prince, and received his Earldom.

In the Year 1058. being the Year after his Father's death, he was again banished for Treason; but by the help of King Griffith, and the Norwey Navy, he recovered his Earldom by force.

He had to Wife the Sister of William Mallet, as Burton in his Antiquities of Leycestershire affirmeth, pag. 168. and had two Sons, Edwine Earl of Mercia, and Morcar Earl of Nor∣thumberland; and two Daughters, Aldith, first married to Griffith King of Wales, and after to Harold King of England; and Lucio, who had three Husbands, Ivo Talbois Earl of Angeau, the first Husband of Lucy; Roger de Romara, Son of Gerold, the Second Hus∣band of Lucy, by whom she had Issue William de Romara Earl of Lincoln. Randle de Mes∣chines Viscount Baieux in Normandy, Lord of Cumberland in England, and afterwards Earl of Chester, was the third Husband of Lucy, by whom she had also Issue: But she survived all her Husbands. Ingulphus, pag. 898. Hoveden, pag. 443, 444. Ingul. pag. 902, 903. Ordericus vitalis, pag. 511. & 871. Cambden's Britannia in Leycestershire. [Obiit 1059]

Anno Domini 1059. Algar died, and was buried at Coventry. Ingulphus, pag. 898.

VII. Edwine, Son of Algar, succeeded Earl of Mercia, Anno Domini 1059. He and his Brother Morcar stoutly opposed William the Conqueror, Anno 1066. But the Conque∣ror prevailing, he lost his Earldom.

He lived to the fourth Year of the Conqueror's Reign, Anno 1070. [Obiit 1070] When fearing to be imprisoned, he conveyed himself secretly from the Court of William the Conqueror, and rebelled against him; and unable to withstand, he intended to have gone to Mal∣colme then King of Scotland: but being betrayed by his own Men, was slain by the way. Ordericus, pag. 521. Florentius, pag. 437, 438. Some say Morcar was taken by the Conqueror, and died in Prison: Howbeit Ingulphus, pag. 901. saith, Comites Edwinus & Morcarius ambo à suis per insidias trucidati.

I find no mention of any Issue, either of Edwine or Morcar.

Finis Primae Partis.

Of the Earls of CHESTER Since the Norman Conquest.

PART II.

CHAP. I.

I. AFter that William Duke of Normandy had vanquished King Harold in Battel, and obtained the Crown of England, which hapned Anno Christi 1066. as all our Histories una∣nimously declare, he by degrees conferred many great Pa∣trimonies and large Possessions upon his more noble Ba∣rons, as just Rewards for their Service, by whose assistance he had got a new Kingdom. So Ordericus Vitalis (a Writer who lived near to those Times) lib. 4. Eccles. Hist. pag. 521, 522. as it is set out with other Histories by Andrew du Chesne, and Printed at Paris Anno Domini 1619. tells us in these words,—Rex Guil∣lielmus dejectis Merciorum maximis consulibus, Edwino scilicèt interfecto, & Morcaro in vinculis constricto, Adjutoribus suis inclytas Angliae Regiones distribuit: & ex infimit Normannorum Clientibus, Tribunos & Centuriones ditissimos erexit. Amongst those of the meaner sort newly raised, the principal were Geffrey de Clinton, Rafe Basset, with some others, which Ordericus expresseth more at large, pag. 805.

II. But concerning the distribution of his Counties in England to his greater sort of Nobles and Barons who accompanied him in this Service, see Ordericus, pag. 522. Among others, Anno 1070. the King gave to William Fitz-Ozberne Dapifero Norman∣niae, that is, High Steward of Normandy, the Isle of Wight, and the County of Hereford. Which William, with Walter Lacy and other tried Champions, the King set as a Curb to the Welsh, whose boldness first Invaded Brachavianos, or Brecknockshire, and slew Risen and Caducan, and Mariadoth, three Welsh Kings, with many others. Chester and the County thereof the King had but lately given to one Gherbod,* 1.12 a Nobleman of Flan∣ders, who had gallantly behaved himself as well against the English as Welsh, and after∣wards being sent for by his Friends, whom he had left in Flanders, and to whom he had committed his hereditary Honour there, he obtained liberty of King William the Con∣queror to go thither, and to return very quickly again; but by misfortune he fell into the

Hands of his Enemies when he came into Flanders, and there endured a long and te∣dious Imprisonment. [ 1070] In the mean time, that is to say, sub Anno Domini 1070. King William gave the Earldom of Chester to Hugh de Auranges, Son of Richard sirnamed Goz. This Hugh with Robert of Rothelent, and Robert of Malpas, and other cruel Potentates, spilt much of the Welshmens Blood. And the Castle of Stutesbury, now called Tutbury, in Staffordshire, which Hugh de Auranges held before, was given to Henry Son of Walceline de Ferrars. And divers other Lands were conferred on other Persons, as you may see more at large in Ordericus.

III. But before I proceed to our Norman Earls of Chester, it will not be amiss to note out of Ordericus, who that Robert of Rothelent was, whom I mentioned before with Earl Hugh; for both he and the above mentioned Robert of Malpas, were of the prime of the Noblemen and Barons belonging to Hugh Earl of Chester.

This Robert of Rothelent, or Ruthelan, is described by Ordericus; pag. 669. thus— He was a valiant and an active Soldier, eloquent, Facundus & formidabilis, but of a stern Countenance, liberal, and commendable for many Vertues. Hic Edwardi Regis Armiger fuit. He was one of those who attended the Person of King Edward the Confes∣sor, from whom he received the Honor of Knighthood. Touching his Descent, his Fa∣ther was Umfrid de Telliolo, Son of Amfrid of the Progeny of the Danes: His Mothers Name was Adeliza, Sister of Hugh de Grentemaisnill, of the famous Family of the Ge∣roians. He was Commander in Chief at the Siege at Rochester, 1 Willielmi Rufi. At which time Griffith King of Wales Invaded the Coasts of England, and had made a great Destruction about Rothelent. For his Works of Piety, he gave to the Abbey of Utica in Normandy (where his Brothers Ernald and Roger were Monks, and his Father and Mother, aliique Parentes ejus, were buried) the Church of Tellioles, and the Tythe of his Mills, Lands, and Beer in his Cellar: And he gave in England two Carucates of Land, and twenty Villanes, and the Church of Cumbivel, all the Town, Tythe, and Church of Kirkby in Wirrall within the County of Cheshire, and the Church of the Island, and the Church of St. Peters in Chester City.

In the Charter of Confirmation of all the Lands given unto the Abbey of Utica by many Noblemen in England, made by William the Conqueror, An. 1081. we read among other things thus—Robertus verò de Rodelento, Praefato Hugone Cestrensi Comite Domino suo concedente, dedit Sancto Ebrulfo Cherchebiam cùm duabus Ecclesiis; unam scilicèt quae in ipsâ villâ est, & aliam propè illum Manerium in insulâ maris: & Ecclesiam Sancti Petri Apo∣stoli, & quicquid ad eam pertinebat, in Cestrensi urbe: & in Merestonâ (quae est in Northamp∣tonshire) Ecclesiam Sancti Laurentii & quicquid ad eam pertinet, & in eâdem Provinciâ Eccle∣siam de Bivellâ cùm duabus terrae Carucatis, &c. This Charter is set down at large in Orde∣ricus, pag. 602. So that Kirkby with the two Churches, I conceive, is Kirkby in Wirrall within Cheshire, one Church then standing in the said Town, and the other near thereun∣to in the Island of the Sea, which I conceive is meant of the Island now called Ilbree.

Robert of Rothelent came very young into England with his Father, and Served King Edward the Confessor both in his House and in his Wars, till at last the King Knighted him; afterwards, having been trained up in Arms here, he got leave of King Edward to go see his Friends in his own Countrey of Normandy: and after the Battel of Senlace he came again into England with his Cosin Hugh, Son of Richard de Auranches, sirnamed Goz, and was a very principal Man in all Military Employments. And after many Conflicts, the said Hugh was made Earl of Chester, and Robert of Rothelent was the chief Commander of all the Forces under Earl Hugh, and made Governor of all Cheshire. And William the Conquerour caused Rothelent Castle and Town to be built, and gave it to this Robert, that he might make it a Defence to England, by curbing the Excursi∣ons of the Welsh: And this stout Champion Seating on their Borders, had many Skir∣mishes with the Welsh, and slew many of them, and enlarged his Territories; and on the Mount Dagaunoth, close by the Sea, he built a strong Castle, and for fifteen years sore afflicted the Britons or Welshmen. But at last Griffith King of Wales, on the third day of July Anno Christi 1088. [Obiit 1088] Landed with three Ships under the Hill called Hormaheva; and when he had pillaged the Countrey, returned back to his Ships. But as soon as

Robert had notice, he calls his Soldiers together, and with a few Soldiers coming to the top of the Hill, he saw them Shipping the Men and Cattel which the Welsh had taken; and being incensed thereat, himself runs violently down the Steep Hill, at∣tended onely with one Soldier, called Osberne de Orgiers, towards the Enemy; but they perceiving him so slenderly Guarded, returned back upon him, and with their Darts or Arrows mortally wounded him: yet whilst he stood and had his Buckler, none durst approach so near as to Encounter him with a Sword; but as soon as he fell, the Enemy rushed upon him and cut off his Head, which they hanged upon the Mast of the Ship in triumph: Aftewards with great lamentation both of the English and Nor∣mans, his Soldiers brought his Body to Chester, and it was Interred in the Monastery of St. Werburge in that City: which Monastery Hugh Earl of Chester had built, and had made Richard, a Monk of Becke in Normandy, the first Abbot thereof. Thus Ordericus, pag. 670, 671. So much of Robert of Rothelent; I shall now proceed to the the Earls of Chester.

IV. The Title of Earl of Chester, since the coming in of the Normans, is more pro∣perly and peculiarly applied than before: for although in the time of the Saxons, Leo∣fric, Algar, and Edwine, who was Earl when the Conqueror invaded England, had all of them successively that Appellation or Title; yet they were not onely Earls of Chester, but were sometimes denominated from other Places also, as Leofric and Algar, both many times stiled Earls of Leicester: And indeed they were not so much Earls of ei∣ther of those two Counties, as of all Mercia, whereof those were but small Branches or Members.

But now more particularly, the Conqueror gives to Hugh sirnamed Lupus, the whole County and Earldom of Chester, to hold of him Tâm liberè ad gladium, sicùt ipse Rex te∣nebat Angliam ad Coronam, as the very words of the Charter do run, saith Cambden. Which words some Expound to be the Tenure of being Sword-bearer of England, at the Coronations of the Kings of England: whence we read in Matthew Paris, that when King Henry the Third Married Queen Elinour, Anno Domini 1236. the Marriage was pompously solemnized, and all the great Men of the Kingdom used those Offices and Places, which had of ancient Right belonged to their Ancestors at the Corona∣tion of the Kings. The Earl of Chester then carried the Sword of St. Edward, which is called Curtein, before the King, in token that he was an Earl Palatine, and had Power by Right to restrain the King if he should do amiss, his Constable of Cheshire attending on him, and beating back the People with a Rod or Staff when they pressed disorderly upon him. This Paris voucheth, an Author who lived in that very Age, pag. 421.

But although this Office might have of ancient Right belonged to the Earls of Che∣ster ever since the time of Hugh Lupus, yet I believe there is something more magnifi∣cent couched in those words of the first Charter or Donation; namely, a Dignity in∣herent in the Sword, as purchased by it, and to be kept by it also: For as in the Crown of England there is an inherent Right of Regality annexed, so here is given an inherent Right of Dignity in the Sword. This is to hold as freely by the Sword, as the King holds by the Crown, onely inferiour to his King. Hence was it, that whatsoever we say concerning the Pleas of the Crown, or to be done against the King's Crown and Dignity, the same is also said (but in a more limited course) concerning the Pleas of the Sword of Chester, or to be done against the Sword and Dignity of the Earl of Che∣ster, as is most evident out of the Records and Endictments of those Times.

V. I come now to Hugh sirnamed Lupus, howbeit in truth he was not the first Earl of Chester after the Norman Conquest: for I have before shewed, that Gherbod, a No∣bleman of Flanders, had it first given to him by the Conqueror, who enjoying it but a little while, is commonly omitted without any notice at all. But this Hugh was the first Earl of Chester of the Norman Race since the Conquest.

The Description of Earl Hugh out of Ordericus, Lib. 4. Eccles. Histor. pag. 522.

Hic non Dapsilis, sed prodigus, &c. He was not abundantly liberall, but profusely prodigal, and carried not so much a Family as an Army still along with him: He took no account either of his Receipts or Disbursements: He daily wasted his Estate, and

delighted more in Falconers and Huntsmen, than in the Tillers of his Land, or Heavens Orators, the Ministers: He was given much to his Belly, whereby in time he grew so fat that he could scarce crawle: He had many Bastard Sons, and Bastard Daugh∣ters, but they were almost all swept away by sundry Misfortunes.

Again Ordericus, Lib. 6. pag. 598.

Ex his Hugo Abrincatensis, Richardi cognomento Goz filius, inter caeteros Magnates effulsit: Cui, Postquàm Gherbodus Flandrensis ad suos recessit, Rex Comitatum Cestrensem consilio Prudentum concessit: Hic nimirùm Amator Saeculi Saeculariumque Pomparum fuit; quas maximam beatitudinum putabat esse portionem humanarum: erat enìm in militiâ Promptus, in dando nimìs prodigus, gaudens ludis & luxibus, mimis, equis, & canibus, aliisque hujusmodi vanitatibus: Huic maxima semper adhaerebat Familia, in quibus nobilium ignobiliumque pue∣rorum numerosa perstrepebat Copia: Cùm eodem Consule commorabantur viri honorabiles, Clerici & milites, quos tàm laborum quàm divitiarum gratulabatur esse suarum Participes: In Capellâ ejus Serviebat Abrincatensis Clericus, nomine Geroldus, religione & honestate pe∣ritiâque literarum praeditus.

[ 1070]

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Azure, a Wolves Head era∣sed Ar.

HUgh, sirnamed Lupus, was created Earl of Chester, An. Dom. 1070. in the fourth Year of the Reign of William the Conqueror over England. Ordericus, pag. 522. The Welshmen or Britons called him Hugh Vras, that is, Hugh the Fat. Ordericus, pag. 768. calls him Hugh Dirgane, that signifies in the Welsh Language, Hugh the Gross: for he was very gross and corpulent.

He had Land in twenty Counties in England: for in the Catalogue of the Counties wherein certain Great Men held Lands in the twentieth Year of Wil∣liam the Conqueror, as it is put in the Appendix to the ancient Norman Writers, set out by Andrew du Chesne, and Printed at Paris, Ann. Dom. 1619. we read thus:

Comes Hugo, Hampshire, Berkshire, Dorset, Somer∣set, Devonshire, Buckingham, Oxford, Glocester, Hun∣tington, Northampton, Warwick, Shropshire, Derbyshire, Cheshire, Nottingham, Rutland, Yorkshire, Lincoln, Nor∣folk, and Suffolk.

Concerning certain Lands in Oxfordshire, which he gave to the Monastery of Abbington, I find in an old Lieger Book of that Monastery remaining in Cotton's Library (noted Claudius C. 9.) fol. 137. of the whole Book; but lib. 2. fol. 35. of that particular part of the History of the Church of Abbington, as followeth:

Viculus est Burgo Abendonensi contiguus, Scipena dictus: hunc de Abbatiâ tempore Edwardi Regis quidam ipsius constabulus nomine Eadnotus, tenebat: Cujus viri terrarum metas posteà Hugo Cestrensis Comes adeptus, cùm didicisset praedictum viculum hujus Abbatiae Juri perti∣nere, commonitu Rainoldi Abbatis & Baronum suorum consultu, tertio Regni Willielmi Junio∣ris Regis anno, & pridiè Calendarum Aprilium, ipse Comes in Sanctuario Ecclesiae istius con∣sistens toto conventu Fratrum ibi praesidente, quicquid in illo loco posse videbatur habere, Deo & Genetrici ejus id obtulit, manu cultellum Altari supponendo: & ut in perpetuùm ratum con∣stet, verbis illud prosequendo: Affuere illo cùm Comite Engenulphus & Willielmus, uterque nepos ipsius, Godardus etiàm de Boiavillâ cùm Engerardo, & alii plures.

Charta de Scipena.

DE hâc, ut dictum est, re determinatâ cùm primo apud eundem Comitem oriretur Sermo, literas Abbati indè direxit. Quarum hujusmodi extitit Textus.

Hugo Cestrensis Comes, Rainoldo Venerando Abbati & charissimo Amico suo, Salutem.

Mando tibi, quòd de terrâ, quam ergà me petiisti, locutus sum cùm uxore meâ & cum meis Baronibus; & inveni in meo Consilio quòd concedam eam Deo & Sanctae Ecclesiae, de quâ Pastoralis Cura super te imposita est: Tali Pacto, quòd dones mihi XXX. libras denariorum de tuâ Pecuniâ; & ut frater vester sim, & uxor mea, & pater meus, & mater mea, in orati∣onibus vestris; & ità ut simus scripti omnes in Libro commemorationum, & ut sit factum tale obsequium pro nobis (quale debet fieri pro uno fratre de Ecclesiâ) ubicunque moriamur: Quic∣quid itaque pro illâ terrâ exactum est, nil fieri relictum: nam & pecunia data & caetera quaesita omninò impensa.

What Lands this Earl Hugh held in Demaine in Cheshire, appears in the Record of Dooms-day Book, Title Cestre-Scire; where in the beginning of the same after the Laws of Chester it is said—The Bishop of Chester holds of the King the Lands in Che∣shire which belong to his Bishoprick [and those Lands are immediately reckoned up and set down:] All the rest of the Lands of the County Earl Hugh held of the King cùm suis hominibus; where cùm suis hominibus, I conceive, is not there meant, that the Earl and his Tenants held their Lands of the King, but that the Earl held all Cheshire of the King, with his Tenants also; that is, and the Tenure and Services of all his Tenants in Cheshire he holdeth of the King also: for every Person in Cheshire, except the Bishop, held what Lands he was possessed of immediately from the Earl, and the Earl held all from the King.

The Names of such Towns in Cheshire, as Earl Hugh held in Demaine at that time, Anno Christi 1086.

• WEverham.
• Kennardsly.
• Doneham on the Hill.
• Elton.
• Trafford.
• Manly.
• Hellesbye.
• Frodshum.
• Alreton.
• Alderly Inferior.
• Done.
• Edesbery, nigh the Chamber in the Forest.
• Eaton, in Broxton Hundred.
• Lay, in Broxton Hun∣dred.
• Cotinton.
• Lay.
• Rushton.
• Upton, juxta Rushton.
• Little Budworth.
• Olton.
• Over.
• Estham.
• Trafford.
• Edlave.
• Macclesfield.
• Adlington.
• Gowesworth.
• Merton.
• Chelford.
• Hungerweniton.
• Henbury.
• Capesthorne.
• Henshall.
• Tingtweezle,
• Hollinworth.
• Wernith.
• Ramiley.
• Laiton.
• Alsacher.
• Sanbach.
• Clive.
• Sutton, nigh Middle∣wich.
• VVimboldsly.
• Weever.
• Occleston.
• Upton in Wirrall.
• Stanney.
• Anterbus in Overwhit∣ley.

In all forty eight.

The Descent of Earl Hugh.

• Ansfrid or Amfrid, a Dane.
  • Umfrid de Telliolo Governor of Ha∣stings in England, 1068. Ordericus, pag. 512. Son of Amfred the Dane. Ordericus, pag. 669. Married Adeliza, Sister of Hugh de Grentemaisnill, Go∣vernor of Leicester, and had Issue Robert of Tothelent Castle in Wales; also Ernald and Roger, both Monks of Utica in Normandy; and William Abbas Sanctae Euphemiae. Ordericus, pag. 671.
    • Robert of Rothelent, Son of Umfrid, whom Ordericus, pag. 670. calls Con∣sobrinum Hugonis Comitis Cestriae, Cosin to Earl Hugh. He was slain Anno 1088. Of whom see more suprà, pag. 24.
  • Turstine, sirnamed Goz, Son of Amfrid, sometime Governor of Oxima, kept the Ca∣stle of Faloys in Normandy, against Duke William, being yet a Child: But Rodulfus Waceiensis, who Commanded the Forces for the young Duke, besieged him therein. Tur∣stine not able to hold out long, surrenders it, on Condition that he may depart quietly; and so he was banished from his Countrey. Willielmus Gemeticensis, lib. 7. cap. 6.
    • Richard, sirnamed Goz, Son of Turstine, was Vice-Comes de Abrincis, that is, Auranches in Normandy. He reconciled his Father to the Duke of Normandy by his good Carriage, and got far more than his Father lost. Gemeti∣censis, ibid. lib. 7. cap. 6.

This Richard had Issue, Hugh Earl of Chester; Ordericus, pag. 522. also Judith a Daughter, Married to Richard de Aquila, Son of Engenulfe; Ordericus, lib. 8. pag. 703. & 649. of whom he begot Gilbert de Aquilâ, and Engenulfe, and Maude, and many other Sons and Daughters. This Richard de Aquilâ was killed with an Arrow, shot into his Eye by a Boy hid in a Bush, 14. Calendas Decembris, Anno Christi 1085. Orde∣ricus, pag. 649. Another Sister of Hugh Earl of Chester Married William Earl of Ewe in Normandy, who being openly convicted of Treason, had his Eyes put out, and his Stones cut off, by the command of William Rufus, Anno 1093. This was done by the instigation of Hugh Earl of Chester, whose Sister he had Married, but had broken his Faith with her: for he had three Bastards by a common Strumpet. Ordericus, pag. 704. Maude, another Sister to Earl Hugh, was Mother of Randle de Bricasard in Normandy, afterwards Earl of Chester, and Wife of Rafe de Micaenis, or Meschines. Ordericus, pag. 871. Milles and Brooks, two late Writers and Heralds, have foisted in the Name of Margaret for this Maude, vouching no Authority.

The Acts of Earl Hugh.

HE made Robert (one of his Bastard Sons) a Monk of Utica in Normandy, An. 1081. Ordericus, lib. 6. pag. 602.

He Founded the Monastery of St. Werburge in Chester: In urbe (Cestriae scilicet) fuit ex Antiquo Sanctimonialium Monasterium, nunc per Hugonem Cestrensem Comitem Monachis repletum. Will. Malmesbury, lib. 4. de Gestis Pontificum, pag. 288. And Learned Cambden thus—Ecclesiam, ••quam Leofricus Comes in honorem Werburgae Virginis posuerat, Hugo primus è Normannico Genere Comes Cestriae restauravit, & Authore Anselmo Monachis Con∣cessit: in Britanniâ suâ. Title Cheshire.

Anno Domini 1093. Anselm Abbot of Becci in Normandy, came into England at the Entreaty of Hugh Earl of Chester, then sick; by whose help the Earl Founded a Mona∣stery at Chester, and wherein Anselm placed Richard his Chaplain the first Abbot, and turned the Secular Canons into Regular Monk. Trevisa in his Translation of Polychro∣nicon, lib. 7. cap. 7. fol. 335. b.

And indeed this agrees in time with the Original Charter of the Foundation, which I transcribed out about 1644. as followeth, then remaining among the Evidences of that Church, which were then kept in a certain Room within St. Werburge Church in Chester.

Omnibus Christi Fidelibus praesens Transcriptum visuris vel audituris, Guncelmus de Badelesmere Justiciarus Cestriae Salutem in Domino. Noveritis me die Sabbati proximè post Festum Assumptionis Beatae Mariae, Anno Edwardi Primi octavo, inspexisse, vidisse, & propriis manibus tractâsse Chartas Abbatis & Conventûs Sanctae Werburgae Cestriae su∣pèr Fundatione Monasterii sui, ac juribus & libertatibus ipsius, & suo Monasterio à Comi∣tibus Cestriae, & aliis, Concessas, in plenâ Curiâ Comitatus Cestriae exhibitas, non Can∣cellatas, non vitiatas, non in aliquâ suâ parte abolitas aut deletas, in haec verba.

Charta Domini Hugonis Comitis, Fundatoris Monasterii Sanctae Werburgae Virginis.

SAnctorum priscâ Authoritate Patrum, qui in Nomine Patris. & Filii, & Spiritus San∣cti, in Sanctâ Ecclesiâ Regiminis Gubernacula hactenùs tenuerunt, quíque suos Adju∣tores Sanctaeque Fundatores Ecclesiae suâ nobis industriâ suorúmque scriptorum longâ Tradi∣tione cognitos reddiderunt, Admoneri videmur, ut ea quae à temporaneis nostris in Sanctae Ecclesiae matris exaltatione facta sunt, praesentibus per nos manifestentur, Posterísque di∣noscenda nobis scribentibus reserventur: Nos igitur Majorum imitantes exempla, jàm quae∣dam Pietatis Opera referamus quae in Anglica Terrâ gesta sunt à Hugone Cestrensi Comite, Anno ab Incarnatione Domini 1093. Regnante Potentissimo Rege Willielmo, atque in Archi∣episcopatu Cantuariensi Pontificante Anselmo, atque in Eboracensi Pontificante Thoma, Volumus verò ut Religiosi atque fideles Christiani cognoscant quià idcircò nobis ista describere placuit, ut qui ea relegerent vel audirent, Deum supplicabiliori affectu pro Sanctae Ecclesiae Funda∣toris salute implorent, & ùt praesentes ad Regna Coelestia tendentes, etiàm inter aetatis hujus Pri∣mates qui sequantur, inveniant. Igitur ad Honorem & Gloriam Sanctae & Individuae Trinita∣tis, atque Incomprehensibilis Divinitatis, jàm proferemus quae nos dicere Spospondimus. Hugo Comes Cestrensis, atque Ermentrude Comitissa, Devotioni Religiosae piâ mente subditi, piilsi∣mâque Dei visitatione inspirati, in quâdam Ecclesiâ quae Constructa est in Honorem Sanctae Werburgae Virginis in Civitate Cestriae monachos religiosè viventes posuerunt, Concedente Rege Willielmo, qui Dominum assiduè exorarent tàm pro utilitate animae Regis Willielmi, & Willielmi Patris ejus nobilissimi Regis, & Matris ejus Matildis Reginae, Fratrúmque & Sororum ejus, atque Regis Edwardi, quàm pro animarum suarum salute, & pro animabus Patrum, & Matrum, & Antecessorum, Haeredúmque, & Parentum, & Baronum suorum, omniúmque Christianorum tam vivorum quàm defunctorum. Huic verò Ecclesiae Sanctae Werburgae, Hugo supradictus Comes, & Ermentrude Comitissa, Possessiones Priores libe∣ras in perpetuùm & quietas concesserunt, & de suis augmentaverunt: Habitationémque Monachorum habilem reddiderunt: Eámque Abbatiam nulli omninò Abbatiae subditam fece∣runt: Posteà in eâ Monachos & Abbatem, Deo Donante & supradicto Rege Willielmo con∣cedente, constituerunt: Hanc etiàm, & quicquid ad eam pertinet, Abbati & Monachis dede∣runt; videlicet, Ince, Salhtonam, Suttonam, Cheveleiam, Huntintonam, Boghto∣nam, Wervenam, Croghtonam, Trofford, Cliftonam, Estonam, Wisdeleth, Hode∣sleiam, Wepram, & dimidium Rabie, & tertiam partem de Neston, & tertiam partem de Salghale, & tertiam partem de Stanney, & dimidiam pariem de Leech, & unam Ca∣rucam Terrae ad Pulford, & tertiam partem de Berdwardsley, & Edenchale, & Sho∣towicam. Insupèr etiàm dederunt huic Ecclesiae in ipsâ Civitate de suo Dominico, Vicum à Portâ de North usquè ad Ecclesiam; & locum unius Molendini ad Pontem Civitatis, & duo Maneria in Anglesey; unum autèm in Ros; & unum in Wirhalle, Erbeiam; & in Lindesei terram decem boum; & post obitum Cómitis vel Comitissae, Westonam cùm appen∣ditiis in Derbyshira; & ad praesens Decimam ipsius Manerii; & Ecclesiam de Estona, &

terram duarum Carucarum; & rectam decimam non solùm de Annonâ verùm etiàm de Pullis & Vitulis, de Porcis & Agnis, de Butyro & Caseo, & de omnibus rebus de quibus Decima de∣beat dari in his meis Maneriis, scilicèt, Eltona, Frodsham, Weverham, Lech, Roecestra, Haurdina, Coleshull, Bishopstreet, Uptuna, Campedena, Estham; Et Rectam Deci∣mam Piscatoriam de Frodesham, de Rodelent, & de Angleseia, non solum de Dominico suo, scd etiàm de Navibus ibi, & in omnibus aquis suis Piscantibus: & decimam de Piscato∣riâ Etone, & de omni Pisce qui accipitur in Dee, & unum Batellum ab omni re liberum. Adhùc verò dederunt Ecclesiam, & Terram Ecclesiae, & Decimam de Molendinis, & de omni∣bus rebus quae Decimari debent in Denefordia. Quinetiàm Baronibus suis Principalibus Concesserunt, quòd unusquisque daret praefata Abbatiae Centum solidatas Terrae; alii autèm secundum Posse & Velle. Insuper concesserunt, ut singuli Barones & Milites darent Deo & Sanctae Werburgae, post obitum suum, sua Corpora & tertiam partem totius substantiae suae: & non solùm haec constituerunt de Baronibus & Militibus, sed etiàm de Burgensibus, & aliis hominibus liberis suis. Teste Anselmo Archiepiscopo, Herveio Episcopo, Baldwino Mo∣nacho, Heldebaldo Monacho, Eustachio Monacho, Roberto Filio Hugonis, Willielmo Constabulario, Willielmo Malbedeng, Ranulfo Dapifero, Hugone Normanni Filio, Radulfo Dapifero, Hugone Filio Osberni. Hamone de Mascy, Gilberto de Venables, Ricardo de Vernon, Ricardo de Rullos, Bigot de Loges, Ricardo Filio Nigelli, Ro∣berto Filio Serli, Ranulpho Venatore, Erneiso Venatore, aliisque quamplurimis.

Willielmus Malbedeng dedit huic Abbatiae Sanctae Werburgae, Witebiam, & tertiam de Wepre, & Ecclesiam & Decimam de Tattenhale, & unam Salinam in Wich, & terram de duobus bobus, & decimam de Salchale, & de Claitona, & de Yraduc. Teste Comitissâ, Ricardo Banaster, Hugone Osberni Filio, Bigod de Loges, Ricardo Pincerna, & Suardo.

Robertus Filius Hugonis dedit Capellam de Christleton, & terram Capellae, & terram cujusdam Rustici & ipsum Rusticum, & quoddam Molendinum terrámque ipsius Molendini, & Chotam Ordrici, ipsúmque Ordricum, & quendam Campum junctum huic Chotae & Cryn; & quandam Salinam in Fulewich, & duas mansuras in Civitate, & paululum ter∣rae juxtà Botechetunestan; Hoc donum concessit Hugo Comes. Teste Willielmo Nigelli Filio, & Fratre ejus Ricardo, Ranulfo Dapifero, Bigot, Hamone de Massy, Hugone Osberni Filio, Hugone Normanni Filio, Fulcone de Baiunvilla, Unfrido de Casten∣tyn, Willielmo de Berneres, Acardo, multísque aliis.

Hugo Filius Normanni, & Radulfus Frater ejus, dederunt partem suam de Lostocke, & Ecclesiam de Contintuna, & terram Ecclesiae, & decimam illius Villae, & de Lay simili∣tèr. Teste Willielmo Malbedeng, multísque aliis.

Ricardus de Vernon dedit Decimam de Eston & Picheton.

Ricardus de Rullos dedit Ecclesiam & Decimam de Waverton, & Hotone, & Clotton, & Molendini Clotonae.

Item Billeheld, Uxor Baldrici, dedit Pecfortunam. Teste Normanno de Arretio, multísque aliis.

Radulfus Venator dedit terram trium Carucarum in Brochetuna.

Hugo de Mara dedit Redeclivam, concedente Comite. Teste Comitissâ, Willielmo Nigelli Filio, Ranulfo Dapifero, Gilberto Venables, multísque aliis.

Item Hugo Comes, dum habuit in Dominico suo Calders, dedit indè Decimam de omni∣bus quae Decimari debent, sicut anteà dederat, quod etiàm Concessit & Confirmavit Robertus Filius Serlonis, quandò Villa data est ei.

Item Comes Hugo, quando habuit in suo Dominico Stortonam & Graisby, dedit indè Decimam de omnibus quae Decimari debent, sicut anteà dederat in suis propriis Maneriis; quae omnia confirmavit Nigellus de Burceio veniens in Haereditatem, augens etiàm ex suâ parte terram de octo Bobus in Gravesbiri. Teste Ranulfo, & Garacino Fratre ejus, multísque aliis.

Itèm Radulfus Ermiwini filius, & uxor ejus Claricia, dederunt terram ad octo Boves in Wudechurch, & Decimam de Berlestona in Wirhale, & de Wervelestona in Wys∣chesfeld, de equabus omnibus ubicunque sint, & de omnibus quae decimari possint. Teste Godfrido Mercatore, Roberto Anglico, Fulberto, multísque aliis.

Item Robertus de Fremouz dedit Fideleustan. Teste Radulfo fratre suo, Roberto Dapifero, Ricardo de Briceio.

Wacelinus, Nepos Walteri de Vernon, dedit quendam Agricolam, & Terram quatuor Boum in Nessa, & decimam de omnibus rebus suis quae decimari possint in Prestona, in Le∣vedesham, & tertiam partem totius substantiae suae & Uxoris ejus. Teste Gilberto mul∣tísque aliis.

Seward dedit Capellam de Bebinton, & Terram quatuor Boum, & Decimam illius Ma∣nerii, & Decimam de Bromhale, & de Walei, & de Maynes, & de Westona, & de Willne, & post obitum suum omnis substantiae suae & suae Mulieris tertiam partem, de Cesturstra, & de Maynes. Teste Willielmo Constabulario, Hugone Osberni filio, & Wimundo de Col.

Item Gilbertus de Venables dedit Deo & Sànctae Werburgae Ecclesiam de Astbury cùm medietate Bosci & plani, & omnium quae pertinent ad Neubold.

Gaufridus de Sartes dedit Decimam suam in Withtricheston. Teste Willielmo Filio Gud, & ipso Domino suo Willielmo Malbeng.

Ricardus de Mesnilwaren dedit Decimam de Blachenot de Annona, de Piscariâ, & de omnibus de quibus Decima dari debet. Teste Rogero fratre suo, & Ranulfo Bruello, & Ra∣nulfo de Walbruno.

Robertus Pultrel dedit Terram unius Carucae apud Masclesfeld. Teste Waleranno de Baro, & Nigello de Repentone, & multis aliis.

Walterus de Vernon dedit Decimam Equarum suarum.

Comes dedit Navem unam cùm decem Retibus ad Piscandum in Anglesei in perpetuùm li∣beram & quietam. Teste Comitissâ, Willielmo Pincerna, Hugone Camerario.

Item ad Festum Sanctae Werburgae in Aestate dedit Comes Hugo, Theoloneum omnes∣que redditus & exitus Nundinarum trium dierum, praecipiens ut si aliquis forisfecerit in Nundinis, omnia Placita pertractentur in Curiâ Sanctae Werburgae ad opus Monachorum. Concessit etiàm ad honorem Virginis, ùt sivè latro, sivè aliquis Malefactor venerit ad So∣lennitatem, habeat firmam Pacem dùm fuerit in Nundinis, ni si fortè in illis aliquid foris∣fecerit. Haec sunt itáque Dona data Abbatiae Sanctae Werburgae, quae omnia ego Comes Hugo, & Ricardus filius meus, & Ermentrudis Comitissa, & mei Barones, & mei Ho∣mines, Dedimus Abbatiae Sanctae Werburgae, & Concessimus ut haec omnia praedicta, & Ab∣batia, & omnia ad eam pertinentia, essent libera, & pacata, & quieta ab omni consuetudine, & ab omnire, nihil retinentes in his omnibus nisì Orationes & beneficio Monachorum in hoc loco commanentium: & tam liberum & quietum honorem Sanctae Werburgae dedimus & con∣stituimus, pro Salute Animae Regis Willielmi, & omnium nostrûm, ùt nullus post nos ali∣quid libertatis vel quietis addere possit: Et quandò nos hanc Chartam confirmavimus, nullum opus, nullum servitium, nullam consuetudinem, nullam rem omninò praeter Orationes in terrâ Sanctae Werburgae retinuimus praeter hoc solùm, quòd si Abbas hujus loci superbiâ inflatus nollet facere rectum Vicinis suis, Comes constringeret eum ad rectum faciendum, & hoc in Curiâ Sanctae Werburgae. Ideóque volumus quòd Sancta Werburga habeat per omnia Curiam suam, sicut Comes suam. Et ut haec omnia rata essent & stabilia in perpetuùm, Ego Comes Hugo, & Barones mei, confirmavimuus ista omnia coràm Anselmo Archiepiscopo, non solùm Sigillo meo, sed etiàm Sigillo Dei Omnipotentis, id est, Signo Sanctae Crucis ✚: ità quòd singuli nostrûm propriâ manu in testimonium Posteris Signum in modum Crucis face∣rent. ✚ Signum Hugonis Comitis. ✚ Signum Ricardi filii ejus. ✚ Signum Hervei Episcopi. ✚ Signum Ranulfi Nepotis Comitis. ✚ Signum Rogeri Bigod. ✚ Signum Alani de Percey. ✚ Signum Willielmi Constabularii. ✚ Signum Ranulfi Dapiferi. ✚ Signum Willielmi Malbedeng. ✚ Signum Roberti filii Hugonis. ✚ Signum Hugo∣nis filii Normanni. ✚ Signum Hamonis de Massy. ✚ Signum* 3.1 Roberti de Loges.

Anno Domini 1098. 11 Willielmi Rufi, this Hugh Earl of Chester, and Hugh de Mont∣gomery Earl of Shrewsbury, took Anglesey. They slew many of the Welsh; some they gelded, and put out their Eyes. Hoveden. also Brompton, pag. 994. The Welshmen cal∣led Hugh Earl of Shrewsbury, Hugh Gogh, that is, Hugh the Red, because of his red Head; and Hugh Earl of Chester they called Hugh Vras, that is, Hugh the Fat. Powel's Notes on the History of Wales, pag. 155.

Some refer the Structure of the Castle and Walls of the City of Chester to Hugh Lupus. Cambden in his Britannia, in Cheshire, saith thus: Cum jàm Templum Conditum esset, Normannici Comites moenia (Cestriae scilicet) & Castrum adjecerunt. But I see not how this agrees with Ordericus, pag. 516. for there we find, that in Anno Christi 1069. (which was one Year before Hugh Lupus was made Earl of Chester) the Cheshire Men and the Welsh Besieged Shrewsbury; at which time William the Conqueror brings his Ar∣my to Chester, suppressing all the Commotions through Mercia: He then built a Fort or Castle at Chester [Munitionem condidit] and in his Return, another at Stafford, both which he Garrison'd with store of Men and Victuals; unless by Munitionem we under∣stand onely a Garrison of Men: But condere Munitionem signifies to erect a Fortificati∣on, which must be either a Castle, or Walls, or both; for the Garrisonning thereof with Men and Victuals, he speaks of afterwards.

Again, we find that Elflede the Countess of Mercia, with Ethelred her Husband, re∣paired the City of Chester, Anno 908. which the Danes had demolished; and erected new Walls there, enlarging the Town very much; so that the Castle situated near to the River, (which before stood without the old Walls) was now within the compass of the new Walls. Polychronicon. So before this, there was a Castle, and Walls: So that the Norman Earls did not first erect the Castle and Walls of Chester. Probably the Conqueror might re-edifie the Castle, according to Ordericus: And it is likely that Hugh Lupus, and the succeeding Earls, have by degrees beautified, and added to the Structure both of the Walls and Castle.

The Wife and Issue of Hugh Lupus.

HE Married Ermentrude, Daughter of Hugh de Clarimont Earl of Beavoys in France, by whom he had onely one Child, called Richard, who succeeded Earl of Chester after his Father's death. Ordericus, pag. 522. & pag. 787.

His Base Issue.

Robert, made Monk of Utica in Normandy, Anno Christi 1081. Ordericus, pag. 602. and afterwards made Abbot of Edmundsbury in Suffolk in England, Anno 1100. Ordericus, pag. 783.

Othuerus, or Ottiwell, Tutor to the King's Children; to wit, the Children of Henry the First. Malmesbury calls him, Frater nutricius Richardi Comitis Cestriae, pag. 165. that is, Bastard-Brother* 3.2; which Phrase I have often seen used in Old Deeds for the same. He was drowned with his Brother Richard Earl of Chester, Anno 1119. saith Ordericus; but most other of our Historians do place that unfortunate Accident Anno 1120. When he saw the Ship sinking, he clips the young Earl of Chester in his Arms, and so both were drowned together. Ordericus, pag. 870.

Philip, another Base Son, whom Miles in his Catalogue of Honor affirms he hath seen mentioned as a Witness to a Charter of William the Conqueror.

Geva, a Base Daughter, married Geffrey Riddell; to whom Earl Hugh her Father gave Drayton-Basset in Staffordshire, as appears by this Deed, taken out of a Manuscript in Arundel-house in London, Anno 1638. wherein the old Deed belonging to the Bassets of Drayton-Basset in Staffordshire, about the Reign of King Richard the Second, were en∣rolled. Ibid. fol. 67. a.

RAnulphus Comes Cestriae, Willielmo Constabulario, & Roberto Dapifero, & omnibus Baronibus suis, & Hominibus Francis & Anglicis totius Angliae, Salutem. Sciatis me dedisse & concessisse Gevae Riddel, Filiae Comitis Hughes, Draitunam, cùm per∣tinentiis in libero Conjugio, sicut Comes Hughes ei in libero Conjugio dedit & concessit; & teneat benè & in pace, honorificè & liberè, ut meliùs & liberiùs tenuit tempore Hugonis

Comitis, & aliorum meorum Antecessorum, eisdem consuetudinibus & libertatibus. Testibus Gilberto filio Ricardi, & Adeliza Sorore mea, & Willielmo Blundo, & Alexandro de Tresgor, & Regero de Bello Campo, & Willielmo de Sais, & Roberto de Sais, & Ri∣cardo Filio Aluredi, & Hugone Filio Osberti, & Henrico de Chalder, apud Saintonam.

She Founded the Monastery of Canwell in Staffordshire, within four Miles of Lich∣field, as appears by this Transcript, which I received from Mr. Dugdale: The Origi∣nal remained with Sir William Peshale of Suggenhill in Staffordshire, Anno 1638. It is al∣so in Monasticon, 1 Pars, pag. 439.

UNiversis Sanctae Dei Ecclesiae fidelibus, Geva Filia Hugonis Comitis Cestriae, & Uxor Gaufridi Ridelli, Salutem. Noverint tàm posteri quàm praesentes, quòd ego Geva Concilio Religiosarum Personarum, & Authoritate Rogeri Episcopi Cestriae, & Assen∣su Ranulfi Comitis Cestriae Cognati mei, pro salute Animae meae & omnium Antecessorum & Parentum meorum, Fundavi quandam Ecclesiam in honorem Sanctae Mariae & Sancti Egidii, & omnium Sanctorum, in loco qui dicitur Canwell, ad opus Monachorum ibidèm Deo Servi∣entium: Et Concedo eis in Elemosynam terram de Stichesleia, & unum pratum quod vocatur Little-Mersi, & molendinum de Fareslei. Praetereà concedo eis in Duntona Manerio meo quatuor Virgatas terrae, & unam Virgatam ex dono Osberti Capellani mei, cùm omnibus quae ad eas pertinent; & in eâdem Villâ unum Molendinum quod dicitur Le Corre. Et volo & concedo, ut praedicti Monachi teneant haec omnia benè & in pace, liberè & quietè ab omni Servitio Seculari ad me, vel ad Haeredes meos pertinente. Et habeant omnes consuetudines & libertates suas in nemore & plano, pratis & Pascuis, ità quòd nullus eis nequè pro Pannagio, nequè pro aliquâ, occasione, molestiam vel injuriam faciat. Hanc quoquè Donationem feci concessione Haeredum meorum, scilicèt Gaufridi Ridelli & Radulfi Basset. Hujus Con∣cessionis sunt Testes, Radulfus Decanus de Blabi, Gaufridus Decanus de Butneswella, Gubertus Canonicus de Legercestria,—&c.

This Deed was made about the Year 1120. or soon after: And though she here writes her self Uxor Gaufridi Ridel, yet truly was her Husband then lately drowned: Ordericus, pag. 870. with many others of the Nobility: Neither could she have made a Deed legally without her Husband, had he been alive.

And because of the Civility of those Ages, she was stiled onely Daughter of Earl Hugh, not Base Daughter; whence some suppose her a Legitimate Daughter: But if she had been Legitimate, then must her Issue have inherited the Earldom of Chester, and not Earl Randle; for as much as a Sister is inheritable before an Aunt. Besides, Ordericus tells us in express Words, That Earl Hugh had no other Child by Ermentrude but onely Richard; nor doth it appear by any Record, or Ancient Historian, that he ever had any other Wife, besides Ermentrude: But Ordericus saith, E Pellicibus pluri∣mam sobolem utriusque Sexûs genuit; quae diversis infortuniis absorpta penè tota periit, pag. 522. But these before-named are so many of them as I haue hitherto collected, or met withal.

As for the usual Custom in ancient Times, of omitting that infamous Title of Ba∣stard, Robert Earl of Glocester, Base Son of Henry the First, is termed onely Brother of Maud the Empress, by Hoveden, pag. 553. Also in a Charter made by Maud the Em∣press her self, he is stiled Brother, not Bastard-Brother. Selden, Tit. Hon. pag. 649. Reginald Earl of Cornwal, another Bastard of Hen. 1. is called Uncle to Henry the Se∣cond, not Base Uncle, by Hoveden, pag. 536. Infinite other such Examples we meet with.

The Death of Hugh Lupus.

THis Hugh Earl of Chester died the 27 day of July, Anno Christi 1101. [Obiit 1101] in the first Year of the Reign of King Henry I. almost expired. So Ordericus Vitalis, p. 787.

Anno 1101.—Intereà Hugo Comes Cestriae in lectum decidit, & post diuturnum lan∣guorem Monachatum in Caenobio, quod idem Cestrae construxerat, suscepit: atquè pòst triduum sexto Calendas Augusti obiit.

Polychronicon thus:—Anno 1102. Hugo Comes Cestrensis, Nepos Regis Willielmi Conquestoris ex parte Sororis, obiit. But for the most part the Year is very uncertainly put down in the Margent, and many times omitted by him.

He was Earl of Chester one and thirty Years.

This Hugh had Whitby in Yorkshire given him by the Conqueror, and he gave the same to William de Percy, who Founded an Abbey there. Monasticon, vol. 1. pag. 172. Earl Hugh gave also to the Prior of Whitby, the Church of St. Peters of Whitby, and also the Church of Flemesburgh. Monasticon. vol. 1. pag. 73.

This Earl also Founded the Abbey of St. Severus, in the Bishoprick of Constance in Normandy. Monasticon, vol. 2. pag. 950. He gave also to the Abbey of Bek in Nor∣mandy, the Mannor of Atherstone in England in Warwickshire. Ibid. vol. 2. pag. 954.

Robert de Beaumont Earl of Mellent in France, and this Hugh Earl of Chester, were the principal Supporters of Henry the First, in advancing him to the Crown of England. Ordericus, pag. 783.

CHAP. II.

Of Richard Earl of Chester.

* 3.3

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

G. Crusilly Or, a Wolfs Head era∣sed Ar.

I. RIchard, the onely Child of Earl Hugh by Er∣mentrude his Wife, succeeded his Father in in the Earldom of Chester, Anno 1101. Ordericus, lib. 10. pag. 787.

He was but seven years old when his Father died, saith the Monk of Chester in his Polychronicon, lib. 7. cap. 13. with whom agrees Knighton the Monk of Leycester, pag. 2376. And I find in an old Leiger Book of the Monastery of Abbington, a Manuscript in Cotton's Library at Westminster in London, noted—Clau∣dius c. 9. fol. 147. of the whole Book; but lib. 2. fol. 45. of that particular part De Historiâ Ecclesiae Abben∣donensis, speaking of this Richard's Grant of Wud∣mundsley to the said Abbey and Church of Abbington, —Ipse Comes benefactum extulit & suo descripto robo∣ravit: quod descriptum Sigillo quidem matris Signari constitit: nondùm enim militari Baltheo cinctus, materno Sigillo literae quaelibet ab eo directae includebantur: hâc de re, quod eò annotatur, Comitissae potiùs quàm Comitis Sigillo Signatur. Cujus Forma haec fuit.—

Ricardus Cestrensis Comes, & Ermentrudis Comitissa mater ejus, Nigello de Oilli, & Rogero filio Radulfi, & omnibus Baronibus de Oxenford Scirâ, Salutem & Amicitiam. Scia∣tis quià pro amore Dei, & animâ Patris mei, & remissione nostrorum Peccatorum, Concedi∣mus hidam illam, quam Droco de Andeleiâ dedit Ecclesiae Abbendonensi, quae est in loco qui di∣citur Wudemundeslai: Nos eidem Ecclesiae Concedimus & auctorizamus perpetuò haben∣dam, solidam & quietam ab omni nostro servitio: Et Rogerus filius Radulfi & Successores ejus sint quieti in nostro servitio, quantum ad illam hidam pertinet: Et defendimus, ùt nullo modo Rogerus, vel alius per eum, inquietet habitantes in terrâ illâ: Hoc autèm fecimus & testi∣monio

nostrorum Baronum; scilicèt Willielmi filii Nigelli, & Hugonis filii Normanni, & Ri∣cardi Balaste, & Willielmi filii Auskitilli, & Ricardi filii Nigelli, & Domini Goisfridi Capellani, & aliorum. Hoc actum est in sexto Anno Regni Henrici Regis, in mense Maii,* 3.4 in die Pentecostes. This was in May, Anno Christi 1106. Earl Richard being then about twelve years old.

By the words [nondùm militari Baltheo cinctus] I suppose the Monk meaneth, that the Earl was a Child, and under the Tuition of his Mother; and for that reason used her Seal to this Charter, and also to other his Letters. Of which opinion likewise is Selden, in his Titles of Honor, pag. 786. The Law, saith he, being such, that whoso∣ever was Knighted, though before the Age of one and twenty, he was esteemed as of full Age in regard of any Wardship or other Tuition: and the Use being, that such Great Lords were often Knighted before they were of full Age. Now this Earl as yet not having received that Honour of Knighthood, but being under Age, used the Seal of his Guardian to make the Act more authentick and valid; and that he was but a Child when his Father died, take the Authority of Ordericus, lib. 10. pag. 787. Ri∣chardus autem pulcherrimus Puer, amabilis omnibus, Consulatum [Cestriae scilicèt] tenuit.

II. He Married Maude, Daughter of Stephen Earl of Bloys in France, by his Wife Adela, Daughter of William the Conqueror; and had no sooner tasted the Pleasures of his Marriage Bed, but he with his young Countess were by the churlish Waves, not onely prohibited their mutual Love Embraces, and hopes of future Posterity to suc∣ceed them, but were deprived of their Lives also, as they were Sailing for England, Anno Domini 1119. Ordericus, pag. 787. So that he was about the Age of twenty five years when he was drowned.

Milles in his Catalogue of Honour hath clearly mistaken the Name of this Earl's Wife, calling her Lucy in stead of Maude, vouching no Authority; a gross Absurdity in a Herald.

III. But because this lamentable Accident is memorable for the destructive influence it had upon many of the Nobility of England, I will collect the whole Story out of Ordericus, and as briefly as I may, lib. 12. pag. 868, 869, 870. The Master of the Ship was Thomas the Son of Stephen, who came to King Henry the First, then in Nor∣mandy, and ready to take Shipping for England, and offered him a Mark of Gold (in el∣der Ages valued at six Pound in Silver, Rot. Mag. Pipae de Anno 1 Hen. 2. and as others say, ten Marks of Silver, 6l. 13s. 4d.) desiring, that as Stephen his Father had Transported the Conqueror when he Fought against King Harold in England, and was his constant Mariner in all his Passages between England and Normandy, so that he himself likewise might now have the Transportation of King Henry with all his At∣tendance, as it were in Fee: for he had a very good Ship called Candida Navis, or The White Ship, well furnished for that purpose. The King thanked him, but withal told him, he had already made choice of another Ship, which he would not change; yet he would commend him to his two Sons, William and Richard, with many others of his Nobility: whereat the Mariners much rejoiced, and desired the Prince to bestow some Wine upon them to drink: He gave them Tres Modios Vini, three Hogsheads of Wine, wherewith they made themselves sufficiently Drunk. There were almost three hun∣dred in this unfortunate Ship: for there were fifty skilful Oars or Galleymen, had they not been intoxicated with Wine, which belonged to the Ship, besides the young Gallants which were to be Transported: but now being neither able to govern them∣selves nor the Ship, they suffered it to be split on a Rock, and so all were drowned, ex∣cept one Be••olde, a Butcher of Roan in Normandy, who was took up the next Morning by three Fishermen into their Boat, after a cold frosty Nights Shipwrack, and with much ado recovered and lived twenty years after.

There were, saith Hoveden, in this Ship Militaris numeri 140. Nautarum 50. cùm tri∣bus Gubernatoribus, with many Noblemen and Women.

The Names of the more eminent Persons who then perished [of whom Huntington thus,—Omnes, velferè Omnes, Sodomiticâ labe dicebantur irretiti,] I have here collected out of Ordericus, viz. pag. 869. William and Richard, two Sons of King Henry the First;

Rafe Rufus, and Gilbert de Oximis; & pag. 870. Maude, Daughter of Henry the First Wife of Rotron Earl of Morton; Richard Earl of Chester juvenis multâ probitate & be∣nignitate laudabilis, with Maude his Wife, Sister to Tedbald Earl Palatine of Blois; Othu∣erus also, Brother to Richard, Hugonis Cestriae Comitis filius, Tutor Regiae Prolis & Paedago∣gus, ut fertur, dùm repentina fieret ratis Subversio, nobiliumque irreparabilis dimersio; adole∣scentulum (meaning Richard Earl of Chester) illicò amplexatus est, & cùm ipso in profundum irremeabilitèr prolapsus est; also Theodoricus Puer, Henrici Nepos Imperatoris Almannorum; also two brave Sons of Ivo de Grentemaisnill, and William of Rothelent their Cosin, who by the King's Command were coming to receive their Father's Inheritances in Eng∣land; William sirnamed Bigod, with William de Prior the King's Steward; Geffrey Ridell, and Hugh de Molinis; Robert Malconductus or Malduit, and Nequam Gisulfus Semba Regis: aliique plures multae ingenuitatis. And in Page 649. he names two more, Engenulfe and Goisfred, Sons of Gilbert de Aquilâ: And in Stowe we find named Walter de Curcy, and Geffrey Archdeacon of Hereford; in all 160 Persons.

Of which Shipwrack an excellent Rhimer of those Times composed these Verses. Ordericus, pag. 869.

Accidit Hora gravis, Thomaequè miserrima navis, quàm malè rect aterit, rupe Soluta perit. Flebilis Eventus, dùm nobilis illa Juventus est immersa mari Perditione pari. Jactatur Pelago Regum Generosa Propago: quosque Duces plorant, monstra marina vorant. O Dolor immensus! nec Nobilitas, nequè Census ad vitam revocat, quos maris unda necat. Purpura cùm bysso liquido putrescit abysso, Rex quoquè quem genuit, Piscibus Esca fuit. Sic sibi fidentes ludit fortuna Potentes: nunc dat: nunc demit: hinc levat, indè premit. Quid numerus Procerum, quia Opes, quid Gloria Rerum? quid, Guillelme, tibi forma valebat ibi? Marcuit ille Decor Regalis, & abstulit aequor quod fact••s fueras, quodque futurus eras. Inter Aquas istis instat Damnatio tristis, nî Pietas gratìs caelica parcat eis: Corporibus mersis animae si dona Salutis nactae gauderent, moesta procul fierent: Certa salus animae verùm dat tripudiare his, benè qui charos Commemorant Proprios. Hinc Dolor est ingens, humana quòd inscia fit mens, An Requies sit eis, quos capit uda Thetis.

The Place or Haven where they took Shipping is called Barbaflat, that is, Harefleet in Normandy; the time 7 Calend. Decemb. 1119. So Ordericus. But Hoveden, Hunting∣ton, Paris, and Judicious Cambden, do all place it in Anno 1120. Hoveden expresseth the very Day of the Week,—Anno 1120. in Scopulos, dictos Chaterase, fracta est Navis 6 Calendas Decembris, feriâ quintâ, noctis initio apud Barbefleet: where he computes the Night to the Day following; Ordericus, to the Day past.

IV. I cannot but take notice here of the Printer's Error in Ordericus, as it is set out by Andrew du Chesne with other Authors, and Printed 1619. We read Page 787. —Ricardus autem pulcherrimus Puer, quem Solum ex Ermentrude filiâ Hugonis de Cla∣romonte genuit, Consulatum ejus ferè 12 annis Amabilis omnibus tenuit: where the num∣ber 12 should have been 19. for if this place be conferred with Page 870. then Richard, by exact computation out of Ordericus, was Earl of Chester just eighteen Years and four Months: But if you place the time of this Shipwrack in Anno 1120. as most

Authors do, then must he have held the Earldom nineteen Years and four Months.

I shall close all concerning this Earl, with his Charter of Confirmation to the Abbey of St. Werburge, which remained among the Evidences of that Church Anno 1644. but were after removed thence in the late War, 1648.

ANno ab Incarnatione Domini, Millesimo centesimo decimo nono, Regnante Potentissimo Rege Henrico, Ego Comes Ricardus meique homines Communi Concilio confirmavi∣mus Sigillo meo omnes Donationes, quae datae sunt à me vel à meis in meo tempore Ecclesiae Sanctae Werburgae Cestriae: Ego itaque Comes Ricardus post obitum Patris mei dedi, pro salute Animae meae & suae, terram quae fuit Wulfrici Praepositi foris Portam de North, priùs per unam Spicam frumenti, deindè per unum Cultellum supèr Altare Sanctae Werburgae; & Molendinum de Bache, & tres Mansuras quietas & ab omni re liberas, duas in Civitate, & unam extra Portam de North. Testibus Willielmo Constabulario, Waltero de Vernon, Radulfo Dapifero, & multis aliis. Willielmus Constabularius dedit Neutonam simul cùm Servitio Hugonis Filii Udardi de quatuor Bovatis; & Servitium Wicelini de duabus Bovatis. Hugo Filius Normanni dedit Gostrey & Lawton. Testibus Hugone de Lacy, & Radulfo & Rogero Filiis Normanni, multísque aliis. Ricardus de Praers dedit Knoctirum. Testibus Willielmo & Ada, Filiis ejus. Corbinus dedit unam Carucam Terrae in Werewel. Hamundus de Mascy concessu Haeredum suorum, & Rosa Uxor Pigoti concessu Rogeri Fratris ejus, dederunt Norwordinam & Ecclesiam, cùm omnibus quae ad eam pertinent: Concedentibus & Testibus Filiis eorum. Rogerus de Menilgarin dedit Plumleiam cùm Widone Filio suo quando factus est Monachus. Teste Ranulfo & Willielmo Filiis. Ranulfus Venator dedit Bresseford, & unam Salinam in Northwich, concessu Ricar∣di Comitis, & Hugonis de Vernon Domini sui. Item Ricardus Comes dedit Decimum Salmonem de Ponte, & locum unius Molendini citrà Pontem, & Decimam illius Mo∣lendini ultrà Pontem. Burel dedit Ecclesiam de Haliwella, & Decimam de Molendino suo, & de omnibus rebus suis. Herebertus Wambarsarius dedit Terram quatuor Boum in Hole. Ricardus Pincerna dedit Ecclesiam Sancti Olavi, & Terram juxtà Ecclesi∣am, & duas Mansuras in foro. Rogerus de Sancto Martino dedit Terram duorum Boum in Bebington. Willielmus de Punterling dedit Buttanari, cùm omnibus Ap∣pendiciis suis, id est, Ecclesiam & totum Manerium solutum & quietum, & Silvam Le∣ctone ad rogum faciendum & ad communem usum Domestici Operis; Consensu & Testi∣monio Hereberti Filii sui, & Aluredi Domini sui, & Ricardi Comitis. Hugo de Vernon concessu Ricardi Comitis dedit unam Mansuram in Civitate solutam & quietam ab omni re & consuetùdine. His ità descriptis, Ego Comes Ricardus, meique Barones, & mei Homines, Confirmavimus non solùm ista, sed etiàm illa omnia quae Comes Hugo Pater meus, & Barones sui, confirmaverunt, &c. Ità liberè ut nihil libertatis possit eis addi ulteriùs; nihil enìm retinemus praeter Orationes in rebus Sanctae Werburgae. Con∣cedimus etiàm, ut Beata Virgo Werburga habeat suam Curiam de cunctis placitis & fo∣risfactis, sicut Comes habet suam. Ità verò quòd Abbas illius loci non exeat nequè Pla∣citet contrà aliquem de aliquo Placito, vel de aliquâ re extrà Curiam suam. Testibus Ranulfo de Meschines, & Willielmo Fratre suo, Willielmo Constabulario, & Ri∣cardo Fratre suo, Hugone Malbanck, Osberno de Meschines, Hugone Filio Osber∣ni, & Willielmo Fratre ejus, multísque aliis: Apud Graham.

CHAP. III.

Of the First Randle, Earl of Chester.

* 4.1

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Or, a Lion Rampant Gules.

I. RAndle the First, sirnamed de Micines, or Meschines, Viscount Bayeux in Normandy, obtained the Earldom of Chester from King Henry the First, with all the Patrimony thereof, as next Heir to Earl Richard; for he was Nephew to Hugh Lupus, to wit, Son of Maude, Sister to Earl Hugh: Orderi∣cus, lib. 12. pag. 871. He restored to King Henry all the Land which he had by his Wife the Widow of Roger de Romara, for the Earldom of Chester. Orderi∣cus, pag. 876.

He is also stiled Randle of Bricasard, who stuck faithfully to King Henry the First, in the midst of a tumultuous Rebellion in Normandy, sub Anno 1119. with others of the Nobility, scorning to be disgraced with the Name of a Traytor. Ordericus, lib. 12. pag. 851, & 879.

In an ancient Roll of Knights Fees due to the Duke of Normandy, I find—

Comes Cestriae Servitium X Militum de S. Severio, & de Bricasart; & ad suum servitium LI Milites, & dimidium, & quartam partem, & octavam unius Militis: In the Appendix added by An∣drew du Chesne to the Norman Writers, at the end thereof, pag. 1045.

This Earl Randle was Lord of Cumberland and Carlisle by Descent from his Father: For after the Normans had invaded England, Cumberland fell to the share of Raufe de Meschines; Cujus Filius natu maximus Ranulfus fuit Cumbriae Dominus; & materno jure, Principísque gratiâ etiàm Cestriae Comes; saith Cambden in Cumberland.

II. But King Stephen willing to gain the Favour of the Scots, gave Cumberland away to them again, to be held of the Kings of England as by a Right of Protection: For the eldest Sons of the Kings of Scotland, before the Norman Conquest, were Gover∣nors of Cumberland for a certain space. But King Henry the Second brought back the Liberality of Stephen to himself, and took from the Scots, Northumberland, Cumberland, and Westmorland, as Cambden in the same place addeth.

III. Raufe de Meschines had by Maude his Wife, Sister of Hugh Lupus, two Sons: Randle the Eldest, Earl of Chester; and William de Meschines, to whom King Henry the First gave the Castle of Egremont in Cumberland, per Servitium unius Militis, utque iret ad Praeceptum Regis in Exercitu Scotiae & Walliae, as Cambden my Author informs me* 4.2.

This William gave the Church of Dissart to the Abbey of St. Werburge in the City of Chester, as appears by an ancient Charter among the Evidences of that Church, and confirmed by this Randle Earl of Chester; which for better satisfaction I think fit here to insert.

UNiversis Matris Ecclesiae Filiis Ranulfus Comes Cestriae, Salutem. Notum sit vobis pariter me Concessisse, Quandò feci transferri Corpus Hugonis Comitis mei Avun∣culi

à Coemeterio in Capitulum, ut in die mortis meae darem simul cum Corpore meo Ecclesiae Sanctae Werburgae, Uptunam solutam & quietam ab omni re, ut Elemosynam liberam, sicut ego ipse in illâ die haberem eam, in Terris, in Hominibus, in Planis, in Pascuis, in Pratis, in Placitis, & in omnibus pertinentiis suis, pro Animâ ipsius Hugonis Comitis, & pro salute Animae meae, & Animarum omnium Parentum meorum. Itèm quià Comes Hugo concesserat anteà Ecclesiae Sanctae Werburgae Theoloneum, & omnes reditus Nundinarum trium die∣rum, id est, à Nonâ Vigiliae Sanctae Werburgae usquè ad vesperam sequentis diei post So∣lennitatem: Ego Comes Ranulfus illud idem Concedo & confirmo, constituens sicùt ipse con∣stituerat, ut sivè latro, sivè Robbator, sive aliquis malefactor venerit ad solennitatem, habeat firmam pacem dùm fuerit in Nundinis, nisi fortè forisfecit in illis: Et si fortè aliquis fo∣risfecerit in Nundinis, omne Placitum & forisfactum & justitia, à Ministris Abbatis & à Vice-Comite Civitatis, tractabuntur in Curià Sanctae Werburgae Virginis: Et ùt Vicecomes intentiùs & fideliùs hoc agat, Computetur & Tallietur ei à meis Camerariis in suam firmam, quicquid Monachi, ex his omnibus acceperunt. Willielmus Meschines, Frater meus, dedit Deo & Ecclesiae Sanctae Werburgae Ecclesiam de Dissard, cùm omnibus pertinentiis suis, Consensu Ranulphi Comitis, & Ranulphi Filii sui. Teste Willielmo Clerico de Roelent, Willielmo Flandrensi, multisque aliis. Mattheus de Ruelent dedit Ecclesiam de Tur∣staniston cùm suis pertinentiis, quandò Simon Frater ejus factus est Monachus. Testibus Roberto de Petroponte, multisque aliis. Hugo Filius Osberni dedit unam Mansuram in Cestria, & unum Pratum quod vocatur Kings-eye. Suuein de Watenhale factus Mo∣nachus, dedit duas Bovatas in Watenhale, concedentibus Filiis ejus. Ricardus de Cruce dedit unam Mansuram in Cestria in Vico apud Pontem, & partem Terrae quam habuit in Mor∣cetone & vellet Monachus fieri. Teste Normanno Filio suo, multisque aliis. Letitia de Malpas dedit Deo & Sanctae Werburgae unam Mansuram versùs Portam Clippe. Teste & Concedente Ricardo Domino suo, & Fratre suo Ricardo Mailard, Nigello Chaldell, multísque aliis. Willielmus Filius Andreae dedit cùm Filio suo Monacho facto unam ma∣gnam Shoppam inter Domum Winebalt & Hamundi in foro. Haec sunt itaquè Dona, quae data sunt à me & à meis hominibus Ecclesiae Sanctae Werburgae in meo tempore: Quaproptèr concedimus & confirmamus, tàm ego quàm homines mei, non solùm haec supradicta, sed & ea omnia, quae Comes Hugo meus Avunculus, vel Ricardus Comes ejus Filius, aut eorum homines, dederunt Ecclesiae Sanctae Werburgae; Deprecantes & praecipientes cunctis nostris amicis & hominibus, tàm praesentibus quam futuris, quatenus ea omnia sint stabilia, soluta, & quieta, & ut Elemosyna ab omni re ità libera, ut nihil libertatis possit eis addi ulteriùs, quià nihil retinemus in his exceptis Orationibus. Adhùc etiàm concedimus & confirmamus, sicùt praedicti Comites & eorum homines anteà confirmaverunt, ut Beata Werburga habeat de cunctis rebus Curiam suam, ità quòd Abbas illius loci non placitet usquàm contrà aliquem de aliquâ re ad Ecclesiam pertinente extrà Curiam suam.

Et ut ego Comes Ranulfus darem exemplum posteris, veni ipse propter unum Placitum in Curiam Abbatis, audiens & suscipiens ibi meum judicium, non à meis sed à judicibus Ab∣batis, ut in omnibus haberet Beata Werburga jus suae dignitatis in perpetuum. Et ut igitùr sìc sint omnia, sicut praedictum est, libera, confirmamus ea hìnc Sanctae Crucis Signo, ✚. hinc meo Sigillo, hinc horum virorum testimonio; scilicèt Willielmi Meschini, Willielmi Constabularii, & Radulfi Dapiferi, Hugonis Malbanc, Ricardi Banaster, Hugonis Filii Osberni, Osberni Filii Hugonis, Roberti de Mascy, Roberti Filii Bigot, Adae de Praers, Gaufridi Capellani, Turgicii Doctoris, Ricardi Filii Nigelli. Signum ✚ Ranulfi Comitis. Signum ✚ Willielmi Meschini. Signum ✚ Willielmi Constabu∣larii. Signum ✚ Roberti de Palmas. Signum ✚ Radulfi Dapiferi. Signum ✚ Hugonis Malbanc. Signum ✚ Ricardi Banaster. Signum ✚ Hugonis Filii Osberni, Signum ✚ Osberni Filii Hugonis. Signum ✚ Roberti de Mascy.

IV. The Wife of Randle the First.

HE Married Lucy, the Widow of Roger de Romara, Son of Geroldus. Ordericus, pag. 871. She was the Daughter of Algar the Saxon, Earl of Mercia, and

Sister to the two great Earls, Edwine Earl of Mercia, and Morcar Earl of Northumber∣land, who stoutly opposed William the Conqueror. This Lucy had three Husbands, and survived them all: The first was Ivo de Talbois Earl of Angeau: The second was Roger de Romara, Son of Gerold, by whom she had Issue William de Romara Earl of Lincoln: The third was this Earl of Chester. Cambden in his Britannia, at the end of Leycester∣shire.

This Lady Lucy, Countess of Chester and Lincoln, Founded the Priory of Spalding in Lincolnshire, where in times past were Monks of Anjou in France. So Leland, a Ma∣nuscript in Oxford Library, pag. 86. See Monasticon, Vol. 1. pag. 307, 308. & Vol. 2. pag. 871.

The same Lucy, with her two Sons, Randle Earl of Chester, and William de Romara Earl of Lincoln, Founded a Priory of Nuns at Stikeswold, of the Order of Cistertians, in the County of Lincoln. Idem Leland ibidem, pag. 87. See Monasticon, Vol. 2. pag. 809.

V. The Issue of Randle the First, by Lucy.

THis Randle the First had Issue by Lucy, Randle the Second, who succeeded Earl of Chester. Ordericus, pag. 871. William, another Son, Earl of Cambridge, who was Witness, with his Brother Randle the Second, to a Charter of Alexander Bishop of Lincoln, of the Island of Haferholm to the Nuns of St. Maries, of the Order of Cister∣cians, dated 1139. 4 Stephani. Also Agnes a Daughter, the first Wife of Robert de Grentemaisnil. Ordericus, pag. 692. Afterwards he married Emme, Daughter of Robert de Stotevill; and his third Wife was Lucy, Daughter of Savaricus Son of Canus.

Adeliza, another Daughter of this Randle, Married Richard Son of Gilbert de Clare, of whom he begot three Sons; which Richard was slain by the Welsh. Will. Gemeticensis, lib. 8. cap. 38. Monasticon, Vol. 1. pag. 118.

[Obiit 1128] * 5.1Randle the First died Anno Domini 1128. after he had been Earl eight Years. Poly∣chronicon, lib. 7. cap. 17. He is called Comes Cumbriae, Monasticon, Vol. 1. pag. 397. but erroneously, and by mistake; for they were stiled Domini Cumbriae, not Comites, as Cambden observes. And I doubt whether in these elder Ages there was any Earl of Cumberland at all, properly to be understood.

This Randle the First gave to the Abbey of St. Mary's at York, the Church of St. Michael, and the Church of St. Laurence of his Castle of Apelby, with all their Appurtenances, id est, which belonged to his Castle of Apelby in Westmorland. Monasti∣con, Vol. 1. pag. 399. in the Reign of King Henry the First.

* 5.2Randle Meschin gave also to the Abbey of Kaldra in Cumberland, that Land of Kal∣dra wherein the Abbey was Founded, and Bemertone, & Holgate, & unam Mansuram in Burgo de Egremunt, & duas Salinas de Withane, & Piscariam de Derewent, & Piscari∣am de Egre, & Pascua ad omnia Animalia in Forestâ ipsius Ranulphi. Monasticon, Vol. 1. pag. 774. But quaere, whether this were not Randle de Micenis, Son of William de Meschin Lord of Coupland, who Founded the Cell of St. Beges in Cumberland, belonging to St. Mary's of York; see Monasticon, Vol. 1. pag. 395, 396. and not our Earl of Chester here spoken of; for that the Page 774. before-cited shews, that the Abbey of Kaldra was Founded Anno Domini 1134. which was after the Death of this Randle Earl of Chester; and it seems not to be meant of our second Randle Earl of Chester, because then he would probably have been stiled Earl, and not barely Randle Meschin, as there he is stiled.

* 5.3Lucia, the Widow of this first Randle Earl of Chester, gave 266 l. 13 s. 4 d. for Live∣ry of her Father's Lands; and also 500 Marks Fine, that she might not be compelled to Marry within five Years.

CHAP. IV.

Of Randle the Second.

I. RAndle the Second, sirnamed Gernouns,* 5.4 be∣cause

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Gules, a Lion ram∣pant, Ar.

he was born at Gernon-Castle in Nor∣mandy* 5.5, was Son and Successor to his Father Randle the First in the Earldom of Chester, and in all his Patrimony both in England and Normandy, Anno 1128. Ordericus, lib. 12. pag. 871. Gemeticensis, lib. 8. cap. 38. Polycronicon, lib. 7. cap. 17.

Anno Domini 1139. King Stephen made Henry, Son of David King of Scotland, Earl of Northumber∣land, at Durham; and gave him Carlisle and Cumber∣land, upon a Peace then concluded between Stephen and the King of Scotland: Which incensed this Ran∣dle Earl of Chester more vehemently against Stephen; howbeit in respect of his Alliance to Robert Earl of Glocester, whose Daughter he had Married, Randle was more apt to be drawn unto the Part of Maude the Empress: So that John Prior of Hagulsted, in his Continuation of the History of Simon of Durham, pa. 268. tells us, That in Anno 1140. Henry Son of the King of Scotland, with his Wife, coming to visit King Stephen in England, this Earl of Chester was much displeased at him; for Randle required Carlisle and Cumberland as his rightful Patrimony, and would have fought the said Henry in his Return to Scotland: But Stephen having notice of Randle's intentions, sent Henry back into his Countrey safe from all danger; and afterwards was the Earl of Chester's indignation bent against King Stephen, and the Earl surprised the Castle of Lincoln, and possessed himself of all the Strong Holds in Lincolnshire.

II. This Randle was a gallant Man at Arms, and took King Stephen Prisoner at the Battel near Lincoln, on Candlemas-day, Anno Domini 1141. Ordericus, Huntington, and Hoveden. But Mat. Paris placeth this Battel in Anno 1140. The Story is set down at large by Ordericus, lib. 13. Eccles. Hist. pag. 921, 922, as followeth.

Anno Domini 1141. Anno sexto Stephani Regis, Randle Earl of Chester, and William de Romara his half-Brother by the Mother, Earl of Lincoln, rebelled against Stephen, and fraudulently surprised the Castle of Lincoln, wherein King Stephen had placed a Garri∣son of Soldiers for Defence of the Town; which Castle was taken thus. Spying the Opportunity, when the Castle-Soldiers were dispersed abroad, the Earl of Chester unarmed, and without a Cloke or Coat, (as if he meant to fetch home his Wife, whom he had before sent thither, accompanied with the Countess of Lincoln, Wife of the said William de Romara, as walking abroad for their Recreation) enters the Castle with three Soldiers, which followed him not far off, no Man suspecting any Treache∣ry. They presently seised the Port or Gate, and took all the Arms which they found, letting in William de Romara, with a Company of armed Soldiers, who hasted after, according to the contrivement of the Plot; and so turning all out that remained in the Castle, which were of the King's part, the two Brothers possessed themselves both of the Town and Castle.

Bishop Alexander, and the Townsmen, willing to insinuate themselves into the favor

of King Stephen, gave him notice of what had hapned. The news much incensed the King, and so much the more, by how much the Fact was committed by those whom he took for his special Friends, and on whom he had conferred many Favors. Stephen forthwith gathereth an Army, and after Christmas-day, which was in the seventh Year of Stephen's Reign, Anno 1141. marcheth towards Lincoln; where by his sudden and unexpected coming in the Night, and the Intelligence of some of the Townsmen, he surprized seventeen of the Earls Soldiers which were in the Town.

The two Earls with their Wives and Friends were Besieged in the Castle, and knew not how to escape this present Danger. At last Randle Earl of Chester (who was the younger and more courageous Earl) adventures out by Night, attended onely with a few, and went to Cheshire as amongst his own Men: He makes known his Condition to Robert Earl of Glocester his Father-in-law, and to others of his Friends: The Disin∣herited Welsh and many others he exasperates against the King, and raiseth all the Forces he can, to help his Friends that were Besieged in the Castle of Lincoln; especially he im∣plores the Aid of Maude the Empress and Countess of Anjou, swearing Fealty unto her, whose Favour he obtained. Having now gathered a numerous Army, the two Earls, Robert Earl of Glocester, and Randle Earl of Chester, march speedily to Lincoln. The King hearing of their approach, adviseth what is to be done: Some counsel him to leave a competent Strength to defend the Town, and to go away himself, and raise a po∣tent Army through all the parts of the Kingdom, whereby in due time he might be able to disperse them, if they should continue before that Town. Others advise him to send a Parley to the Enemy, to put off the Battel, since that Day (being Candlemas-day) was sacred, and to be set apart in commemoration of the Purification of the Virgin Mary. But the obstinate King not willing to delay the Matter, draws forth all his Forces im∣mediately; both Armies meet near the Town of Lincoln, and being put in order, joyn Battel. The King divides his Army into three Bodies; so did the Earls likewise di∣vide their Army on the contrary part. In the Front of the King's Army were the Flemmings and the Britons, Commanded by William de Ipro and Alan de Dinan. On the opposite part to them stood a furious Company of the Welsh, Commanded by two Brothers, Mariadoth and Kaladrius.

The Earl of Chester alights from his Horse, resolving to Fight on foot. The stout Earl bravely encouraged his courageous Cheshire Regiment of Foot, and made this short Speech to the Earl of Glocester, and the rest of his Army—

* 5.6

I humbly thank you, most invincible General, and you the rest of my fellow Soldiers, that you have so faithfully and courageously expressed your Affection to me, even to the hazard of your own Lives: And since I have been the cause of this your danger, it is but reason I should lead the Way, and give the first Onset to the Army of the perfidious King, who hath broken the Truce he made; and onely out of the confidence of your Valour, and the King's Injustice, I doubt not to dissipate his Forces, and with my Sword to make way through the midst of my Enemies: Methinks I see them run already.

Then Robert Earl of Glocester, who Commanded in Chief, encouraged his Sol∣diers, and told the Bassians and others who were Disinherited, That now they should have one Bout for the recovery of their Right and Inheritance.

King Stephen on the other part alights from his Horse, and Fought on foot very stoutly both for his Life and Kingdom; but having no audible Voice, commanded Baldwin de Clare, a Man of great Honour and Prowess, to make known his mind to the Army:* 5.7 who made an Oration to encourage the Soldiers;

Impeaching the Earl of Chester, as a Man audacious, but without Judgment; heady to plot a Treason, but still wavering in the pursuit of it; ready to run into Battel, but uncircumspect of any danger; aiming beyond his reach, and conceiting things meerly impossible; and therefore hath but few with him that know him, leading onely a Rout of va∣grant and tumultuous Pesants: So there is nothing in him to be feared; for whatso∣ever he begins like a Man, he ends like a Woman; unfortunate in all his Under∣takings: In his Encounters he hath either been vanquished, or if by chance he rarely a obtain Victory, it is with greater loss on his part then the Conquered.

But as soon as he had ended his Oration, the Fight began; which was very fierce and terrible, many slain on both parts. In the Head of the King's Army were very stout Soldiers; but his Enemies outvying him in number, prevailed. William de Ipro with the Flemmings, and Alan with the Britons, first turn their Backs;* 5.8 which much discouraged the King's Friends, but encouraged the Enemy. The King was ill be∣trayed: for some of his Nobles accompanied him in Person, whiles they sent whole Troops to the other side.

Waleran Earl of Mellent, and William de Warren his Brother, Gilbert de Clare, and other famous Knights both of England and Normandy, ran away as soon as they saw their own side shrink: But Baldwin de Clare, and Richard, Son of Ursi, Engelram de Say, and Ildebert Lacy, stuck stoutly to the King, and Fought it to the last Man: Stephen himself, like a noble Branch of an heroick Family, Fought so gallantly, that when his Sword was broken, taking a Battel-Axe from a young Gentleman which stood near him, he ceased not to Encounter with his over-powerful Enemies; but at last was constrained to yield himself Prisoner to Robert Earl of Glocester, his Cosin, who sent him to Maude the Empress at Bristow, where he was imprisoned. Baldwine de Clare likewise, and other excellent Champions on the King's part, were taken Prisoners.

Thus by the voluble Wheel of Fortune was King Stephen taken Prisoner at the Battel of Lincoln, on Candlemas-day, Anno Domini 1141. according to Ordericus, who lived in that very Age; which was principally occasioned by the Valour and Assistance of Randle Earl of Chester.

III. Alan Earl of Brettaine, a treacherous and cruel Man,* 5.9 lying in Ambush for the Earl of Chester, to revenge the Dishonor of taking his Lord and King Prisoner, was himself taken and imprisoned till he did Homage to Randle Earl of Chester, and had de∣livered up his Castles unto him. Others say, Alan Earl of Richmond and Little-Britain, was sent for by Randle to speak with him, and so was Apprehended by him, Anno 1141. John Hagustaldensis, pag. 269.

Not long after this, Robert Earl of Glocester was taken Prisoner in another Battel, by some others of Stephen's Party; and so immediately King Stephen and Earl Robert were exchanged each for other.

Anno 1143. Stephen being released out of Prison, Besieged Lincoln, and would have built a Fort over against the Castle, which Randle Earl of Chester kept; but the Earl killed almost eighty of his Workmen, and so he was forced to give it off. Mat. Paris and Hen. Huntington. But Hoveden placeth this 1144. 9 Stephani.

Anno Domini 1145. King Stephen gathering a great Army, built a strong Castle over against Wallingford; whither Randle Earl of Chester accompanied him with great Forces, and was restored unto his Favour: But afterwards the Earl coming to the King's Court at Northampton, was surprized, little dreaming of any such matter, and cast into Prison, untill he restored the Castle of Lincoln, which he had fraudulently ta∣ken, and all other Castles which he injuriously had taken from the King. Chronica Normanniae, put out by Du Chesne with other Histories, pag. 982. Also Polychronicon addeth, That the Welshmen then wasted Cheshire, but were intercepted at Nantwich,* 5.10 lib. 7. cap. 19. Monasticon, vol. 1. pag. 890.

But for the Reconcilement of Stephen and Randle, it is more fully set down in Gesta Stephani, pag 968. thus—The Earl of Chester (who had got almost a third part of the Kingdom by his Sword) comes to the King, and desires Pardon for his Rebellion at Lincoln, and for the seizing of his Soveraign's Possessions, and thereupon was received into Favour: And in farther testimony of his Obedience, he helped the King's Forces, and gallantly Assaulted the Town of Bedford, which had much weakned and shattered the King's Army; and having taken it, delivers it into Stephen's Hands. After this he accompanied King Stephen to Wallingford, attended with three hundred gallant Horse, till the King had erected a stately Castle in prospect thereof, to stop the Incursions of the Enemy, which were wont to issue out of Wallingford, and prey upon the Countrey. But for all this Friendship, Randle was suspected of Stephen, because he surrendred not the Castles and Rents which he had violently taken from him; and because of the

Earls wavering and unstable Mind, not having put in Pledges of his Fidelity; so that neither the King nor his prime Councellors durst rely upon him, unless he would sur∣render all the King's Possessions: and if he refused this, then the King ought to clap him up at his best opportunity. Ibidem, pag. 970, 971.

Randle Earl of Chester, seeing he was thus suspected, turns himself to his wonted course of Treason, plotting how he might more easily without Infamy deliver the King into the Hands of his Enemies: and coming to the Court with some Attendance, whereby he might be the freer from suspicion, he complained how he was beset with a barbarous multitude of Welsh, who made great spoil and waste of his Lands; so that he and all his Tenants bordering on the Confines of his County, would be quite ex∣tirpated, unless the King gave him speedy Assistance; telling him, that his Presence would do more by the very Name of a King, than many thousands of Soldiers without him. The King cheerfully promiseth his Assistance; but the Councel about his Royal Person would not suffer it: for they wished the King to consider, least the Earl had a Design to ensnare him, telling him, That it was not safe for him to bring his Army into the midst of so barbarous a Countrey, through mountainous and steepy places, where he might be entraped on every side: besides it were a very rash part, to go into his Countrey who had taken from him the greatest part of his Kingdom: for although he might seem to incline to the King, yet there was no certainty of his Fide∣lity, nor Pledges of Assurance: And that if he would have the King's Assistance, he should first deliver up what he had unjustly taken; which if he refused, then presently he should be seized on as the King's Enemy, and be imprisoned till he made Restitu∣tion. But Randle, when he heard the Conditions which he was to perform before he could have the King's Aid, answer'd, That he came not to the Court for that purpose, neither had he any notice of this beforehand, whereby he might have advised thereon; and uttering many high words, he was laid hold on by the King's Officers and impri∣soned. The Nobles who took part with Earl Randle, Petitioned the King for his En∣largement, and offered Sureties, or any Security the King should demand, for the deli∣vering up of those Castles which were of Right belonging to the King, so that the Earl might be released. And thereupon Randle Earl of Chester (having given Pledges, and taken a solemn Oath, that he would never hereafter take up Arms against the King) was restored to his Liberty.

But as soon as he was released, he violated his Oath, and raised an Army against the King, prosecuting his wrathful indignation with revenge of Fire and Sword whereso∣ever he came; and, as my Author saith, In omnem aetatem, in omnem Sexum, Herodia∣nam Tyrannidem, Neronianam truculentiam exercebat. He came often with a Party of Soldiers in view of the Town of Lincoln (where now the King had placed the Flower of his Soldiery) and had many Skirmishes with them; sometimes he was put to the worse, sometimes by the smiling Success of Fortune he victoriously triumphed over the King's Party. He likewise blockt up the Castle of Coventrey, (which also he had delivered up to the King) till Stephen came to relieve it with Victuals, whereof it was in some distress; and that was done with great difficulty to the King, by forcing his Passage through Randle's Army; where by the Way he had many Conflicts. In the first Skirmish the King having received some slight Wound, was forced to retreat; but as soon as he was recovered, he fell upon the Earls Army, took many, wounded others, and the Earl himself put to flight, and almost slain. The King then pulls down the Castle of Coventrey, which had been delivered to him before, and victoriously pro∣ceeds to other Castles in Randle's possession, sometimes blocking them up, sometimes burning and destroying all about them, and ever after became a sore Enemy to Randle and his Adherents. Thus much ex Gestis Stephani.

Anno Domini 1150. David King of Scotland, Entertained Henry, Son of Maude the Empress, at Carlisle very magnificently about Whitsuntide, and Knighted him there in the Presence of Henry, Son of King David, and Randle Earl of Chester; which Randle was then appeased concerning his Claim of Carlisle and Cumberland as his Patrimony, and did Homage to King David; for there was some Speech amongst them, that for

Carlisle, Randle should have the Honour of Lancaster, and that Earl Randle's Son should Marry one of the Daughters of Henry Prince of Scotland: And so King David, and Henry Duke of Normandy, and Earl Randle were agreed to unite their Forces against King Stephen. And King David, with his Son Henry, came to Lancaster with their For∣ces, where Earl Randle promised to meet them with his; but Randle failing of his Pro∣mise, they returned back. Johannes Prior Hagustaldensis, pag. 277, 278.

Anno 1151. Randle Earl of Chester having been imprisoned (which Imprisonment Radulfus de Diceto, Chronica Gervasii, John Bromton, Chronica Normanniae, Mat. Paris, and Mat. Westminster, do all place in Anno 1145. but Hoveden in Anno 1146.) and having given his Nephew Gilbert de Clare for his Hostage, was released: But falsifying his Word, and endangering his Hostage, he sendeth for Henry Duke of Normandy into England, promising him all Assistance. Whereupon Henry came into England; to whom Robert Earl of Leycester, and many of the wisest Noblemen of England then re∣sorted. Idem Johannes, pag. 278.

What a tumultuous Age this was, and how the Great Men of the Kingdom divided the Spoils, may appear by the Agreement made between this Randle Earl of Chester, and Robert, sirnamed Bossu, Earl of Leycester, about the Year 1151. the Original whereof remains in Cotton's Library in Westminstsr.

Haec est Conventio intèr Ranulfum Comitem Cestriae, & Robertum Comitem Le∣grecestriae; & finalis Pax & Concordia quae fuit Concessa & divisa ab eis, coràm Se∣cundo Roberto Episcopo Lincolniae, & hominibus eorum; ex parte Comitis Cestriae, Ricar∣do de Lovetot, Willielmo filio Nigelli, Ranulfo Vice-Comite: Ex parte Comitis Le∣grecestriae, Ernaldo de Bosco, Gaufrido Abbate, Reginaldo de Bordineio: Scilicèt, quòd Comes Ranulfus dedit & Concessit Roberto Comiti Legrecestriae castrum de Mountsorell, sibi & haeredibus suis. Tenendum de eo & haeredibus suis haereditariè & sicùt Charta ipsius Comitis Ranulfi testatur: Et ità quòd Comes Leycestriae receptare debet ipsum Comitem Ranulfum & familiam suam in Burgo & Ball••s de Mountsorell, ad guerrandum quemcunque voluerit ut de feodo suo: Et ità quòd Comes Leycestriae non potest indè forisfacere Comiti Ranulfo pro aliquo: Et si necesse sit Comiti Ranulfo, corpus ipsius receptabitur in Dominico Castro de Mountsorell: Et ità quòd Comes Leycestriae portabit ei fidem, salvà fide Ligei Domini sui: Et si oportuerit Comitem Leycestriae ire super Comitem Cestriae cùm Ligeo Do∣mino suo, non potest ducere secum plus quàm viginti milites: Et si Comes Leycestriae, vel isti viginti milites aliquid ceperint de rebus Comitis Cestriae, totum reddetur. Nec Ligius Dominus, Comes Leycestriae, nec aliquis alius potest forisfacere Comiti Cestriae, nec suis, de Castris ipsius Comitis Leycestriae, nèc de terrâ suâ: Et ità quòd Comes Leycestriae nec potest proptèr aliquam Causam, vel proptèr aliquem Casum, impedire Corpus Comitis Cestriae, nisi eum desidaverit quindecem dies anteà: Et Comes Lycestriae debet juvare Comitem Cestriae contrà omnes homines, praetèr Ligium Dominum ipsius Comitis Leycestriae, & Comitem Simonem: Comitem Simonem potest juvare hoc modo, quod si Comes Ranulfus forisfecerit Comiti Simoni, & ips•• Comes Ranulfus noluerit Corrigere forisfactum proptèr Comitem Leycestriae, tunc potest eum juvare: Et si Comes Simon forisfecerit Comiti Cestriae, & no∣luerit Corrigere se proptèr Comitem Leycestriae, non juvabit eum Comes Leycestriae: Et Comes Leycestriae debet custodire terras & res Comitis Cestriae, quae in potestate ipsius Co∣mitis Leycestriae sunt, sinè malo ingenio. Et Comes Leycestriae pepigit Comiti Ranulfo, quòd Castrum de Ravenstona cadet, nisi concessu Comitis Ranulfi remanserit: Et ità quòd si aliquis vellet illud Castrum tenere contrà Comitem Leycestriae, Comes Ranulfus auxiliabitur absquè malo ingenio ad diruendum Castrum illud: Et si Comes Ranulfus fecerit clamorem de Willielmo de Alneto, Comes Leycestriae in suâ Curiâ habebit eum ad rectum quamdiu ipse Willielmus manserit homo Comitis Leycestriae & terram tenebit de eo: Et ità quod si Wil∣lielmus vel sui recesserint à fidelitate Comitis Leycestriae proptèr Castrum Prostratum, vel quià rectum noluerit facere in Curiâ Comitis Leycestriae, non receptabuntur in potestate Co∣mitis Cestriae, nequè Willielmus nequè sui, ad malum faciendum Comiti Leycestriae: In hâc Conventione remanet Comiti Leycestriae Castrum de Witewic firmatum cùm caeteris Castris suis.

Et e Converso, Comes Ranulfus portabit fidem Comiti Leycestriae, salvâ fide Ligii Do∣mini sui: Et si oportuerit Comitem Cestriae ire supèr Comitem Leycestriae, cùm Ligio Do∣mino suo, non potest ducere secum plus quàm viginti milites: Et si Comes Cestriae, vel isti viginti milites, aliquid ceperint de rebus Comitis Leycestriae, totum reddetur: Nec Ligius Dominus, Comes Cestriae, aut aliquis alius potest forisfacere Comiti Leycestriae nec suis, de Castris ipsius Comitis Cestriae, nèc de terrâ suâ: Et ità quod Comes Cestriae non potest prop∣tèr aliquam Causam, vel aliquem Casum, impedire Corpus Comitis Leycestriae, nisi eum defi∣daverit quindecem dies antè. Et Comes Cestriae debet juvare Comitem Leycestriae contrà omnes Homines, praetèr Ligium Dominum ipsius Comitis Cestriae, & Comitem Robertum de Ferrariis. Comitem Robertum potest juvare hoc modo, si Comes Leycestriae forisfecerit Co∣miti de Ferrariis, & ipse Comes Leycestriae noluerit corrigere forisfactum proptèr Comitem Cestriae, tunc potest eum juvare Comes Cestriae: Et si Comes Robertus de Ferrariis forisfecit Comiti Leycestriae, & noluerit se corrigere propter Comitem Cestriae, non juvabit eum Comes Cestriae. Et Comes Cestriae debet custodire terras & res Comitis Leycestriae, quae in potestate ipsius Comitis Cestriae sunt, sinè malo ingenio. Et Comes Cestriae pepigit Comiti Leycestriae, quòd si aliquis vellet Castrum de Ravestona tenere contrà Comitem Leycestriae, Comes Ranul∣fus auxiliabitur sinè malo ingenio ad diruendum Castrum illud: Nec Comes Cestriae, nec Comes Leycestriae debent firmare Castrum aliquod novum inter Hinckley & Coventrey, nec inter Hinckley & Hardredeshellam, nec intèr Coventrey & Donintonam: nec inter Doninto∣nam & Leycestriam, nec ad Grataham, nec ad Cheneldestam, & Belvier, nec inter Belveer & Hocham, nec inter Hocham & Rockingham, nec propiùs, nisi communi assensu utriusque: Et si aliquis in praedictis locis, vel infrà praedictos Terminos, firmaret Castrum, uterque alteri erit auxilio sinè malo ingenio donec Castrum diruatur. E•• hanc Conventionem, sicut in hâc Chartâ continetur, affidavit uterque Comes, videlicèt Cestrensis & Leycestrensis, in manu Roberti Secundi, Lincolniensis Episcopi, Tenendam: Et posuerunt eundem Episcopum obsi∣dem hujus Conventionis supèr Christianitatem suam: Ità quòd si aliquis exiret ab hâc Conven∣tione, & nollet se corrigere infra 15 dies postquàm inde requisitus fuerit sinè malo ingenio, tùnc Episcopus Lincolniensis, & Episcopus Cestrensis facient justitiam de eo tanquàm de fide mentitâ. Et Episcopus Lincolniae, & Episcopus Cestriae tradent obsides uterque duos, quos receperunt proptèr Conventiones istas Tenendas, illi videlicèt qui Conventiones istas praedi∣ctas tenebit.

How Randle Earl of Chester was rewarded for taking part with Henry Fitz-Empress, being yet but Duke of Normandy, and Earl of Angeau, may appear by this Deed fol∣lowing, which I conjecture was made about the Year 1152. when Stephen and Henry made an Agreement: The Original hereof is in Cotton's Library: It is also upon Re∣cord in one of the great Couchir Books in the Dutchy Office at Gray's-Inne in London, Tom. 2. Honor sivè Soca de Bolingbroke, num. 7. pag. 498, 499.

HEnricus Dux Normanniae, & Comes Andegaviae, omnibus Archiepiscopis, Episcopis, Comitibus, Baronibus, Vice-Comitibus & omnibus Amicis & fidelibus suis, Norman∣nis & Anglis, Salutem. Sciatis me dedisse & concessisse Ranulfo Comiti Cestriae omnem haere∣ditatem suam Normanniae & Angliae, sicut unquàm aliquis Antecessorum suorum eam meliùs & liberiùs tenuit: & nominatim Castellum de Vira & Barbifluvium cùm tali libertate, quòd per totam baleugam possit capere forisfactum suum: Et Brullium de fossis, & Alebec, & hoc (undè erat Vice-Comes) de Abrinciis, & in Sancto Jacobo, de hoc feci eum Comitem: & quicquid habui in Abrinches ei dedi praetèr Episcopatum, & Abbatiam de monte Sancti Mi∣chaelis, & quod eis pertinet: Insuper Dedi & concessi ei totum honorem Comitis Rogeri Pictaviensis ubicunque aliquid habet: & totum honorem de Eia, sicut Robertus Mallet, avunculus Matris suae illum meliùs & plenius unquàm tenuit: Insupèr dedi ei Stafford & Staffordshire, & Comitatum Staffordiae totum, quicquid ego ibi habui in feodo & haereditate, Excepto feodo Episcopi Cestriae, & Comitis Roberti de Ferrars, & Hugonis de Mortuo Mari, & Gervasii Pagani, & exceptâ Forestâ de Canok quam in manu meâ retineo: Et feodum Alani de Lincolne ei dedi, qui fuit Avunculus Matris suae: Et feodum Ernisii de Burun, sicut suam haereditatem: Et feodum Hugonis de Scoteneio ei dedi, ubicunquè sit e

Et feodum Roberti de Chalz, ubicunquè sit: Et totum feodum Radulfi Filii Odonis: Et totum feodum Normanni de Verdun: Et feodum Roberti de Stafford, ubicunquè sit: Et triginta libratas terrae, quas habui in Grimesbeia,* 7.1 ei dedi: Et Nottingham Castle, & Burgum, & quicquid habui in Nottingham, in feodo & haereditate sibi & haeredibus suis: Dedi & totum feodum Willielmi Peverelli ubicunque sit, nisi poterit se dirationare in meâ Curiâ de scelere & Proditione, exceptâ Hecham: Et si Engelra∣mus de Albemarle non voluerit se capere mecum, neque Comes Simon, & illud vi capere potero, praedictam Hecham reddo Comiti Ranulfo, si eam habere voluerit: Et Torcheseiam, & Os∣wardebek Wapentack, & Derbeiam cùm om∣nibus Pertinentiis: Et Maunsfield cùm Soca, & Roelay cùm Soca, & Stanleiam juxtà Co∣ventreiam cùm Soca, & de Belvario tenebo ei rectum quàm citiùs potero, sicut de suâ haereditate: Et sex Baronibus suis, quos elegerit, cuique centum libratas terrae dabo, de his quae mihi ex hostibus meis adquisita acciderint, de me tenendas: Et omnibus Parentibus suis suam reddo haereditatem undè potens sum, & de hoc undè ad praesens po∣tens non sum, rectum Plenarium tenebo ex quo potens ero. Testibus Willielmo Cancellario, Reginaldo Comite Cornubiae, Rogero Comite Herdia, Patricio Comite Salisburiae, Um∣frido de Bohun Dapifero, J. Filio Gilberti, R. de Hum. Constabulario, Guarino Filio Ger. Roberto de Curcy Dapifero, Manassero Bysset Dapifero, Philippo de Columbe. Ex parte Comitis Ranulfi, Willielmo Comite Lincolniae, Hugone Wac. G. Castell de Fines, Simone Filio Willielmi, Thurstano de Monteforti, Gaufrido de Costentyn, Willielmo de Verdon, Ricardo de Pincerna, Rogero Wac. Simone Filio Osberti. Apud Divisas.

And here I cannot pass by Vincent's Error in the Review of the second Edition of Brooks's Catalogue of Nobility, pag. 662. where he saith thus:

That the Barons of the Earls of Chester were chosen in the time of Hugh Lupus, I doubt: for what should move Henry the Second (when he was but yet Duke of Normandy and Earl of Anjou) among divers Grants that he made to Randle de Gernouns Earl of Chester, to say in his Charter—Et sex Baronibus suis, quos elegerit, cuique centum libratas terrae dabo: That he would give to the six Barons, quos elegerit, which he shall chuse, not quos eligerit, which he hath already, chosen, a hundred pound Land apiece, &c. if they had been chose in Hugh Lupus's time?

Thus Vincent.

But to pass by his gross Distinction of Elegerit and Eligerit; for it is Elegerit in both Tenses, Future and Preterperfect Tense: nor is Eligerit any true Latin word at all. Me∣thinks he reads not the English to a proper and genuine Sence; for I conceive the mean∣ing to be plainly thus,—Et sex Baronibus suis, quos elegerit, cuique centum libratas terrae, &c. that is, To six of his Barons, whom he shall chuse or appoint out, he will give to every one of them a hundred Pounds-worth of Land apiece. So that there might be many more Barons at that time for all this: And indeed the Charter of Hugh Lupus of the Foundation of the Monastery of St. Werburge in Chester, Anno 1093. mentions Barons at that time; which you may see at large suprà, pag. 109, 110, 111. In the Subscription whereof it is said—Ego Comes Hugo & Barones mei confirmavimus: And I pray you, how comes the Duke here to know Randle's mind to elect Barons, if they were yet to be chosen?

But where he renders it—And to the six Barons which he shall chuse, I should render it, And to six of his Barons whom he shall chuse, or cull out: For the Grant being made to Earl Randle, there was so much to be given to six of his Barons, but left to the appointment and nomination of Earl Randle, which six Barons he would have to be the Men to enjoy those Lands: for if we should render it—And to his six Barons, &c. implying onely

that set number, and no more, the following words (quos elegerit) would be superflu∣ous; for being given to six Barons equally, there is no choice left at all to the Earl, where there be no more Barons: unless we suppose six Barons to be made, and that there were none before; which evidently appears to the contrary: Therefore indeed these words, rightly understood, do imply, there were more Barons at that time, out of which Randle had the nomination of the six here intended left unto him.

But of these Barons I shall speak more particularly in the third Part of this Book.

Take here a Deed or two of this Randles, which are in one of the great Couchir-Books in the Dutchy-Office at Grays-Inn: The first being of certain waste Lands in Ley∣cestershire, which this Randle gave to Henry the Second, and the King gave them to Ro∣bert Bossue Earl of Leycester.

Ibidem, Tom. 2. Comitatus Leycestriae▪ Num. 66.

HENRICUS Dei Gratiâ Rex Angliae & Dux Normanniae, Archiepiscopis, Episcopis, &c. Salutem. Sciatis, Quia Ranulfus Comes de Cestria dimisit & con∣cessit mihi habere in Dominio Cernelegam, & Cernewodam, & Aldremanchagam, in De∣fenso sicut aliquod defensum chariùs habeo; & omnia nemora quae fuerunt de Feodo Comitis de Cestra, quae attingunt Forestam Legrecestriae, praetèr Parcum suum, habere in Defenso, de Wasto, & de Bestiâ Salvagiâ. Sicut autèm praedictus Comes Ranulfus mihi haec dimisit & concessit, ità & Ego concedo Roberto Comiti Legrecestrae, habere haereditabilitèr cùm alio Feodo suo. Et volo & firmitèr praecipio, ut benè & quietè & honorificè teneat cùm omnibus consuetudinibus suis. Testibus Theobaldo Comite Blesense, & Gualeranno Comite de Mellent, & Willielmo de Tano, & Nigello de Albiun, & Willielmo de Luriaco, & Adam de Portu, & Pagano Filio Johannis, & Gaufrido Filio Pagani, & Andrea de Baldement, & Roberto de Donestanvilla. Apud Haveringas

Ibidem, Honor sive Soca de Bolingbroke. Pag. 433. Num. 3.

RANULPHUS Comes Cestriae, Constabulario suo, & Dapifero, & cunctis Baronibus suis, & Hominibus Francis & Anglis, & Amicis & Vicinis tàm Clericis quàm Laicis, Salutem▪ Sciatis, me dedisse & concessisse Willielmo Comiti Lincolniae Fratri meo, Watteleiam in Feudo & Haereditate sibi & Haeredibus suis, &c. indè reddendo Ser∣vitium duorum Militum in singulis Annis: Haec autèm donatio facta est in Anno quo ipsemet Willielmus redivit de itinere Sancti Jacobi Apostoli in Crastinâ die post Festum Sanctae Crucis quod celebratur Mense Septembri. Et indè sunt Testes ex meâ parte Willielmus de Colevill, Robertus Grainssac, Gaufridus Malab. Ex parte vero Comitis Willielmi, Hadewisa Comitissa Lincolniae, Wido de Pouilla.

These following Deeds concern the Abbey of St. Werburge.

RANULFUS Comes Cestriae, Constabulario, Dapifero, Baronibus, Justici∣ariis, Vicecomitibus Cestriae, tàm praesentibus quàm futuris, & omnibus hominibus suis Francis & Anglis, Clericis & Laicis, Salutem. Universitati vestrae notum facio, me dedisse in Elemosyna in perpetuùm Deo & Sanctae Mariae, & Ecclesiae Sanctae Werburgae, & Radulfo Abbati & Conventui praedictae Ecclesiae, pro salute Animae Hugonis Comitis, Prae∣fatae Ecclesiae Fundatoris, àc pro salute Animae Ranulfi Comitis Patris mei & Antecessorum meorum, & pro salute Animae meae, & Christianorum omnium, omnem Decimam integrali∣tèr & plenariè omnium Reddituum meorum Civitatis Cestriae, &c. Si quis autèm vestrûm infoelix hanc Elemosynam à me manu supèr Altare Sanctae Werburgae oblatam fortè disturbare vel minuere praesumpserit, Precor Episcopum Cestriae & obnixè requiro, & Justiciarium meum Cestriae super amorem meum & meorum Praecipio, quòd illum justitiet donèc ad dig∣nam satisfactionem venerit. Teste Roberto Dapifero, Normanno de Verdon, Willi∣elmo Capellano, Ricardo Capellano, Ricardo Pincerna, Rogero Filio Ricardi de Aquila, Spilend Camerario, Hugone Filio Oliveri, Dunun Filio Walmari, & mul∣tis aliis.

RANULFUS Comes Cestriae, Constabulario, Dapifero, Justiciario, Baronibus, Vice-Comitibus, Ministris & Ballivis, & omnibus hominibus suis, Francis & Anglis, Clericis & Laicis, tam praesentibus quàm futuris, Salutem. Sciatis me confirmas∣se—Omnes Donationes & Libertates, quas Comites Antecessores mei, scilicet Hugo Comes, & Ricardus Filius ejus, & Ranulfus Pater meus, & Barones mei, in tempore illorum vel in meo, dederunt,—&c. Teste Roberto Dapifero, Normanno de Verdon, Ranulpho Vicecomite, Hugone Hostr. Ada de Praers, Ricardo Pani, Willielmo Gridell. Apud Cestriam.

And by another Deed, he gave to the Church of St. Werburge, for the Satisfaction of all the Evils done by him to that Church, Estham, and Brunborough, in Wirrall. Te∣ste Waltero Episcopo, & aliis: Apud Gresel. This was made about the Year, 1152.

The Wife and Issue of Randle the Second.

HE Married Maude, Daughter of Robert Earl of Glocester, Bastard Son of King Henry the First, by whom he had Issue Hugh Earl of Chester, and Richard. Ge∣meticensis, lib. 8. cap. 38. Ordericus, pag. 921.

Powell in his Notes on the Welsh History, pag. 295. calls this Countess Alice, for Maud; and so doth Ferne in his Lacy's Nobility, pag. 43. in his most absurd Pedegree of the Earls of Chester there. Both these Authors are grosly mistaken herein. See her Name proved by the Deed infra, pag. 130, & 131.

The Death of Randle the Second.

ANno Domini 1153.* 10.1 Ranulfus ille Nobilis & Famosus Comes Cestriae,* 10.2 vir admodùm Militaris, Per quendam Willielmum Peverellum (ut fama fuit) veneno infectus post multos Agones Militaris Gloriae, vir insuperabilis audaciae vix solâ morte territus & de∣victus, vitam finivit temporalem. Chronica Gervasii. Which John Prior of Hagustald placeth in Anno 1154. Chronica Normanniae say, Anno 1152.

Anno 1155. Willielmum Peverell causâ Veneficii, quòd Ranulfo Comiti Cestriae fue∣rat propinatum, Rex Anglorum Henricus exhaeredavit. In cujus Pestis Consortio plures conscii extitisse dicuntur, saith Matthew Paris.

He was Earl of Chester 25 Years, and founded the Nunnery in Chester City. Mona∣sticon, 1 Pars, pag. 507. He died Excommunicated by Walter Durdant Bishop of Lich∣field; for whose Absolution, Maud his Wife, and Hugh his Son, gave the Town of Styshall near Coventry to the Bishop and his Successors: Ex vetusto Exemplari in Baggo de diversis Inquisitionibus penès Thesaurarium & Camerarium Scaccarii Westmonasteriensis, Londini.

Maud his Widow Founded the Priory of Holy Trinity at Ripendon in Derbyshire, An∣no Domini 1172. 18 Hen. 2. And she died the 29 day of July, 1189. Monasticon, Vol. 2. pag. 280.

Randle the Second Founded the Priory of Trentham in Staffordshire,—Sciatis me de∣disse centum Solidatas terrae meae Staffordiesire Deo, & Sanctae Mariae, & omnibus Sanctis, ad restaurandam quandam Abbathiam Canonicorum in Ecclesiâ de Trentham—& eas assigno de Trenteham, undè Rex Henricus habuit centum Solidos: So run the Words of the Grant. Monasticon, Vol. 2. pag. 260. He gave also Cumbe to the Abby of Bordesly in Worcestershire, which his Countess Maude and Hugh his Son did afterwards confirm, Monasticon, Vol. 1. pag. 805. And also to the Abby of Basingwerk in Flintshire, Holes, and half of Lecche, and five Pound Rent in Chester. Monasticon, Vol. 1. pag. 720.

Also he Founded the Priory of Mentings in Lincolnshire, a Cell of the Abbey of St. Benedict super Leyre. Monasticon, Vol. 1. pag. 592. He gave also the Town of Canoc

(vulgò Kank) to the Abbey of Stoneley in Warwickshire. Monasticon, Vol. 1. pag. 820.

Also he gave liberty to the Monks of Coventry to have two Carts going to and fro, twice every day, except Holy-days, unto his Woods there, for Fewel, and other Ne∣cessaries. Char. 22 Edw. 3. per Inspeximus, Num. 6.

CHAP. V.

Of Hugh the Second, Sirnamed Cyveliok, because he was born in the Commote or Province of Cyveliok, situate in that part of Wales an∣ciently called Powys.

[ 1153]

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Azure, six Garbs Or, 3, 2, 1.

I. HUgh the Second, sirnamed Cyveliok, suc∣ceeded his Father Randle the Second in the Earldom of Chester, Anno Dom. 1153.

He performed many valiant Acts, and by his Sword made Purchase of the Land called Bromfield, from the Welsh, his most harmful Neighbors.

Anno 1172. Hugh Earl of Chester, with the King of Scotland, and Robert Earl of Leycester, rebelled against Henry the Second: These took part with the King's Son against the King.

And in Anno 1173. 19 Hen. 2. Hugh Earl of Che∣ster, and Rafe de Filgiers in Normandy, had almost pos∣sessed themselves of all the Province of Little-Britain in France, but were overcome in Battel by Henry the Second; at which time these, with many others of the Nobility of Britain, were forced to retreat to the Castle of Dole: But the Braibants, whereon King Henry relied, besieged them on every side, the 13 of the Calends of September, being Tuesday. The King hereof being certified, came to Dole on the Friday following: So the Earl of Chester, and the rest that were in the Castle, seeing them∣selves unable to defend it, surrendred both themselves and it to the King on the Sunday following, being the 7 of the Calends of September, or the 26 of our August. The Names of such as were taken Prisoners in that Castle, are more at large set down by Hoveden, pag. 535, 536. So was Hugh Earl of Chester taken Prisoner, 1173.

But in Anno 1177. at a Parliament at Northampton, in January, both Robert Earl of Leycester, and Hugh Earl of Chester, were restored to all their Lands by the King. Hove∣den, pag. 560.

II. This Hugh confirmed to the Abbey of St. Werburge in Chester, Granisby in Wir∣rhall, which Richard de Rullos had given thereunto. Teste Matilda Matre meâ, Ricardo de Rullos, & Roberto Fratre suo, Roberto Basset, R. Capellano, & multis aliis. The Original hereof was among the Evidences of that Church at Chester, Anno 1644.

He gave also the Church of Prestbury to the same Abbey, in these words.

HUGO Comes Cestriae, Constabulario, Dapifero, Justiciario, Baronibus, Viceco∣mitibus, Ballivis, & omnibus Hominibus suis, Clericis & Laicis, Francis & An∣glis, tàm presentibus quàm futuris, Salutem. Sciatis, me dedisse cùm Corpore meo Deo & Sanctae Werburgae Ecclesiam de Prestbury cùm omnibus pertinentiis,—&c. Deo teste &

omnibus Sanctis, Joh. Priore de Trentham, Samsone Canonico, Radulfo Barba appellato, R. Clerico de Wicho, Ranulfo de Wicho, Radulfo de Menilwaringe, Radulfo Filio Warini, Gilberto Filio Pincernae, Roberto Fratre ejus, Frombaldo, Bertramo Came∣rario, G. Filio Eliae. Haec Charta facta fuit coràm Comitissa Matilda Matre Comitis, & Bertreia Comitissa Sponsa ejus, & Ranulpho Haerede suo concedente.

Some other Chartes of this Hugh I have met withal, which I have also here transcri∣bed, as followeth.

Charta Hugonis Cyveliok.

HUGO Comes Cestriae, Justiciario, Constabulario, Dapifero, Vice-Comiti,* 12.1 & omnibus Baronibus suis, & omnibus Ministris suis, & omnibus Hominibus suis, Francis & Anglicis, tàm praesentibus quàm futuris, Salutem. Sciatis, me dedisse—in puram & perpetuam Elemosynam pro salute Animae meae, & pro Animâ Patris mei, & pro Ani∣mabus Antecessorum meorum, Abbatiae de Benedicto loco de Stanlaw, & Monachis ibidèm Deo servientibus, quietantiam Theolonei in Villâ meâ Cestriae de omnibus, quae praefati Monachi ibi emerint ad opus suae Dominicae Domus de Stanlaw. Testibus Abbate Cestriae, Johanne Constabulario, Radulfo Filio Warini, Hugone de Dutton, Johanne Burd, Martino Angevin, Adam de Dutton, & multis aliis. Apud Cestriam.

A very fair Seal: The Earl on Horseback.

UNiversis Sanctae Matris Ecclesiae Filiis, Hugo Comes Cestriae Salutem.* 13.1 Sciatis me Concessisse, & hâc praesenti Chartâ meâ Confirmâsse Deo & Abbathiae Sanctae Mariae de Coventrey, & Monachis ibidèm Deo servientibus, pro salute Animae meae, & Patris mei, & Ricardi Fratris mei, cujus Corpus in praedictâ Abbatiâ sepelitur, donationem illam quam Pater meus Ranulfus Comes Cestriae eis fecit, & Chartâ suâ confirmavit, scilicèt Capellam Sancti Michaelis de Coventrey, cùm omnibus pertinentiis suis, quae sita est in Feodo meo; liberè & quietè in perpetuum possidendam, sicut Charta mea eis testatur: & ut concessio rata & firma permaneat, eam praesentis scripti Autoritate & Sigilli mei testimonio confirmavi. Testibus Edmundo Archidiacono Coventriae, Johanne Priore Trentham, Ricardo Avun∣culo meo Filio Comitis Glocestriae, Rogero Malfylaste, &c.

HUGO Comes Cestriae, Constabulario suo, Dapifero, omnibus Baronibus suis, omnibus Hominibus suis, Francis & Anglicis, tam futuris quam praesentibus,* 13.2 Sa∣lutem. Concedo Sanctimonialibus de Bolintona stagnum meum de Dunintona firmum terrae meae, sicut fuit tempore Henrici Regis, in perpetuam Elemosynam pro animâ meâ, & Patris mei, & meorum Antecessorum: Et praecipio omnibus hominibus meis, quòd habeant meam firmam pacem; ità quòd nullus indè praedictis Sanctimonialibus injuriam vel contumeliam faciat. Teste Roberto Dapifero de Monte alto, Filippo de Kima, Simone Filio Osberti, Wil∣lielmo Patric, Radulfo Filio Warneri, Rogero de Maletot, Johanne Priore de Trent∣ham, Orm ejus Canonico, Rogero Monacho de Hambi, Willielmo Clerico Comitis qui Chartam scripsit apud Beltesfort, & multis aliis.

A fair Seal, with the Impression of the Earl on Horseback, written about,—Sigillum Hugonis Comitis Cestriae.

ROBERTO Dei Gratiâ Lincolniensi Episcopo, & Capitulo Sanctae Ecclesiae Lin∣colniae, totique Clero illius Praesulatûs, Hugo Comes Cestriae, Salutem.* 13.3 Nec non & Constabulario, & Dapifero, & Baronibus, & Ministris, & Famulis, & Hominibus suis omnibus, tàm Clericis quàm Laicis, salutem similiter. Vos scire volo, me concessisse & confirmâsse Sanctimonialibus de Grenefelt illam terram, quam Willielmus Filius Otuhe∣ri eis in Elemosynam perpetuam dedit; quam verò Pater meus Comes Ranulphus eis Concessit Cartâ suâ confirmatam: Eaproptèr volo & praecipio, quòd praefatae Sanctimoniales terram illam perennitèr benè & quietè, & liberè habeant & possideant. Testibus Matilda Comitissâ

Matre meâ, Simone Filio Willielmi, Rogero Capellano, Ricardo Capellano, & aliis multis: Apud Beltesford. Valete.

A very fair Seal, with the Impression of the Earl on Horseback; and on the back part of the Seal two lesser Impressions of a Man holding or setting something on a Form or Stool, inscribed about—Contra-Sigillum Co∣mitís Cestriae.

III. The Wife of Hugh Cyveliok.

HE Married Bertred, Daughter of Simon Earl of Evereux in Normandy. Vincent upon Brook, pag. 105.

That her Name was Bertred, and that she survived her Husband, take this Deed to prove it, in the Couchir Book in the Dutchy-office in Grays-Inn, London, Tom. 2. Honor sivè Soca de Bolingbroke, num. 7. pag. 112.

OMnibus hoc scriptum audituris & visuris, Bertreya Comitissa Cestriae, Salutem. Noverit universitas vestra, me Concessisse & hâc meâ praesenti Chartâ confirmâsse Radulfo Carbunel de Haltuna & Haeredibus suis, pro Homugio & Servitio suo, Feodum dimidii Militis quod tenet de me in Haltona* 13.4, pro tribus Solidis annuatìm mihi & Haeredi∣bus meis ad duos terminos reddendis, de illo & de Haeredibus suis, pro omni Servitio & Exa∣ctione; scilicèt ad Nativitatem Sancti Johannis Baptistae decem & octo denarios, & ad Na∣tale decem & octo denarios. In hujus autem rei Testimonium praesenti scripto Sigillum meum apposui. Hiis Testibus, Radulfo Filio Simonis, Simone de Seis, Andrea Filio Williel∣mi, Willielmo de Maletoft, Willielmo de Haghe, Ricardo de Bunington, Ricardo de Harderna, Alano Filio Ramgoti, & aliis.

The Issue of Hugh Cyveliok by Bertred.

* 13.51. RAndle the Third, sirnamed Blundevill: He died without Issue, and his four Sisters shared his Inheritance.

2. Maude, eldest Daughter of Hugh, Married David Earl of Huntingdon, Brother to William King of Scotland; of whom he begot John, sirnamed The Scot, Earl of Che∣ster in his Mother's Right: She had the Earldom of Chester, and the Lands in North-Wales to her share.

3. Mabill, second Daughter of Hugh by Bertred, Married William d' Albiney Earl of Arundel. She had the Manor of Barow, with 500 l. Lands. This was Barow in Ley∣cestershire.

4. Agnes, third Daughter of Earl Hugh by Bertred, Married William Ferrers Earl of Derby. She had the Castle of Chartley* 13.6, and the Lands in that part of Wales anci∣ently called Powys. She confirmed to the Church of St. Mary at Mirival the Manor of Great-Hole, and part of the Wood of Alteker, which William her Husband had before given. One of the Couchir Books in the Dutchy-Office, Tom. 1. fol. 133.

* 13.75. Hawise, fourth Daughter of Earl Hugh by Bertred, Married Robert Quency, Son and Heir of Saher de Quency Earl of Winchester. She had the Earldom of Lincoln, to wit, the Castle and Honour of Bolingbroke, and all the Lands of Earl Randle in Lindsey and Holland in Lincolnshire; for which she gave 50 l. for Relief.

On Hawise was Estated for Joynture, Bukby, Grantesset, Bradeham, and Herdwick, as appears by this Deed in the Couchir Book of the Dutchy-Office. Tom. 2. Honor sivè Soca de Bolingbroke, num. 26. pag. 508.

SAherus de Quency Comes Wintoniae, omnibus Hominibus & Amicis suis, praesentibus & futuris, salutem. Sciatis, me concess••sse & dedisse & praesenti Chartâ meâ confir∣mâsse Roberto de Quency Filio meo & Haeredi ad dandum in liberum Donarium Hawisiae Sorori Comitis Cestriae, Uxori ejusdem Roberti, Bucehebeiam, & Grantesset, & Brade∣ham, & Herdewich, cùm omnibus earundem terrarum pertinentiis, pro centum Libratis terrae: Et si hae praedictae terrae non valeant per Annum centum Libras, Ego in aliis terris meis de propriâ Haereditate meâ in Anglia, ei tantum perficiam, quòd plenariè habeat centum Libratas terrae per visum & considerationem legalium Militum hominum, videlicet, Comitis Cestriae & meorum. Et praetereà Dedi eidem Roberto Feoda duorum Militum, scilicet Feedum Matthei Turpin in Winterslawa in Wilteshire, pro servitio Feodi unius Militis, ad dandum simul cùm terris nominatis praedictae Hawisiae Uxori suae in liberum donarium. Testibus his, Comite Davide, Willielmo Comite de Ferrars, Philippo de Orreby, Ro∣berto de Basingham, Ricardo de Lindeseia, Willielmo de Grumpington, Henrico de Braibroc, Willielmo de Syelford, David Giffard, Willielmo Picot, Hugone & Tho∣ma & Henrico Dispensariis, Waltero de Coventrey, Waltero Daivilla, & multis aliis.

This Hawise had the County of Lincoln* 14.1 given unto her by her Brother Randle, [ 1232] a little before his death, about 16 Hen. 3. 1232. in these words: which Deed is transcri∣bed in one of the Couchir-Books in the Dutchy-Office, Tom. 2. Honor sive Soca de Boling∣broke, pag. 500. num. 11. It is also transcribed by Vincent, in his Corrections upon Brooke, pag. 317. which he affirmeth he took from the Original it self in Cotton's Libra∣ry, thus:—

RANULFUS Comes Cestriae & Lincolniae, omnibus praesentibus & futuris, prae∣sentem Chartam inspecturis vel audituris, Salutem in Domino. Ad universitatis ve∣strae notitiam volo pervenire, me dedisse, concessisse, & hâc praesenti Chartâ meâ confir∣mâsse, Dominae Hawisiae de Quency Sorori meae Charissimae Comitatum Lincolniae, sci∣licet quantum ad me pertinuit, ut indè Comitissa existat. Habendum & tenendum de Domino meo Rege Angliae, & Haeredibus suis, liberè, quietè, plenè, pacificè, & integrè jure Hae∣reditario, cùm omnibus pertinentiis suis, & cùm omnibus libertatibus ad praedictum Comi∣tatum pertinentibus. Et ut praesens scriptum Perpetuitatis robur obtineat, illud Sigilli mei appositione roborare dignum duxi. Hiis Testibus, Venerabilibus Patribus P. Wintoniae, & Alexandro Coventriae & Lichfeldiae Episcopis, R. Marescallo Comite Pembroke, Wil∣lielmo de Ferrars Comite Derbiae, Stephano de Segrave Justiciario Angliae, Simone de Monteforti, Willielmo de Ferrariis, Philippo de Abiniaco, Henrico de Aldith, Wil∣lielmo de Cantilupo, & aliis.

Hawise transfers the Earldom of Lincoln to John Lacy, and the Heirs of his Body which he shall beget on Margaret his Wife, Daughter of the same Hawise. 1 Patent, Anno 17 Hen. 3. memb. 9. num. 35. It is also in the Register of the Dutchy of Lan∣caster. Honor sive Soca de Bolingbroke, pag. 500. num. 10.

HENRICUS Dei Gratiâ Rex Angliae, Dominus Hiberniae, Dux Normanniae & Aquitaniae, Comes Andegaviae, Omnibus ad quos praesentes Literae pervenerint, Salutem. Sciatis, quòd ad Instantiam Hawisiae de Quency dedimus, & concessimus dile∣cto & fideli nostro Johanni de Lacy Constabulario Cestriae, illas viginti Libras, quas Ra∣nulphus quondàm Comes Cestriae & Lincolniae recepit pro tertio Denario Comitatus Lin∣colniae, nomine Comitis Lincolniae; & quas praedictus Comes in vitâ suâ dedit praedictae Hawisiae Sorori suae: Habendas & tenendas, nomine Comitis Lincolniae, de nobis & Haere∣dibus nostris, ipsi Johanni, & Haeredibus suis, qui exibunt de Margareta Uxore suâ, Filiâ praedictae Hawisiae, in perpetuum. Et in hujus rei Testimonium has Literas nostras Paten∣tes ei fieri fecimus. Teste meipso apud Northampton, 23 die Novembris, Anno Regni nostri 17.

IV. The base Issue of Hugh Cyveliok.

PAganus, Dominus de Milton, whom I have seen Witness to a Deed, Subscribed thus,—Filius Bastardus Hugonis Comitis Cestriae.

Roger, Witness to a Deed of his Brother Randles, to the Abbey of St. Werburge, whom I conceive was a Bastard.

Amicia, the Wife of Raufe Manwaring, sometime Judge of Chester; to whom Hugh Cyveliok Earl of Chester, her Father, gave in libero maritagio servitium Willielmi Filii Rogeri: scilicèt servitium trium militum; faciendo sibi servitium duorum militum, as the words of the original Deed do run, now in the possession of Sir Thomas Manwaring of Over Pever, Baronet.

Also another base Daughter, as I conceive, Married one Bacun, and had Issue Richard Bacun, Founder of the Priory of Roucester in Staffordshire, about the Reign of King John, for the safety of his Soul, and the Soul of his Uncle, Randle Earl of Chester. Monasticon, Part 2. pag. 267.

And here I cannot but mislike the boldness and ignorance of that Herald, who gave to Manwaring of Pever the Quartering of the Earl of Chester's Coat of Arms: which Device was never done before the Reign of Queen Elizabeth, in the time of Sir Randle Manwaring, late of Pever, the elder, my Grandfather by the Mother: for if he ought of right to Quarter that Coat, then must he be Descended from a Coheir to the Earl of Chester; but that he was not: for the Coheirs of Earl Hugh, as you see before, were Married to four of the greatest Peers of the Kingdom, the Earl of Huntington, the Earl of Arundel, the Earl of Derby, and the Earl of Winchester's Son and Heir, who lived not to be Earl: Neither was Manwaring then an equal Competitor, to have Married a Co∣heir to the Earl of Chester. And it is plain, ex placitis 18 Hen. 3. Rot. 14. in the Tower of London, where the Coheirs Implead John the Scot, Earl of Chester, for their part, there is no mention of Amice claiming any part, or any from or under her, in the Re∣cord. Besides, all ancient Authors of those Times, as Polychronicon, Matthew Paris, Knighton, Stowe, and others, would not have omitted her among the rest which they have set down, had she been a Coheir; which also she must needs have been, had she been legitimate: for Hugh Cyvelioc never had any other Wife but Bertred, and she sur∣vived him.

And though Amice in the Deed before mentioned is stiled—Filia Hugonis Comitis, without the addition or note of Bastard, it was very usual in those elder Ages so to do. The like we find of Geva, base Daughter of Hugh Lupus, and several others.

V. Concerning this Bertred, the Wife of Hugh Cyveliok, I cannot omit the Falsi∣ties and Absurdities of some Authors, as Powel on the Welsh History, pag. 295. and Ferne in his Lacy's Nobility, pag. 53. both of them calling this Bertred by the Name of Beatrix, and saying she was the Daughter of Richard Lucy, Chief Justice of England; a most gross Falsity. I am very certain that Hugh Cyvelioc's Wife was not Daughter of Lucy, nor ever called Beatrix in any old Deed or Record; though I find by good Au∣thority that there was a Woman called Beatrix Lucy, but never Wife of Earl Hugh.

The Death of Hugh Cyveliok.

[Obiit 1181] THis Hugh Earl of Chester, died at Leeke in Staffordshire, and was buried at Chester, Anno Domini 1181. 27 Hen. 2. Hoveden, pag. 615. with whom Westminster, Polychronicon, and Cambden inter Comites Cestriae, do all agree.

He was Earl of Chester 28 Years, and gave the Church of Bettesford to the Prior and Canons of Trentham after the Death of William Barba, who at the time of this Grant possessed the same; a Copy of which Deed I received from Sir Simon Dewes, Baronet.

Now because I find that some are displeased at my placing of Amice, sometime the Wife of Raufe Manwaring, Iudge of Chester, among the base Issue of Hugh Cyveliok Earl of Chester, and also that I am informed, that three eminent Judges and four He∣ralds are of opinion that she was legitimate, and not a base Daughter of Earl Hugh, it is very necessary that I put down here my Reasons why I have so placed her, protest∣ing withal, that I have not done it out of any prejudicate Opinion or Calumny inten∣ded in the least, but onely for the Truths sake, according to the best of my Judgment, and that after a long and diligent scrutiny made herein: for I must ever acknowledge my self to be Extracted out of the Loyns of this Amice by my own Mother; but you know the old Saying of Aristotle, Amicus Plato, Amicus Socrates, sed magis amica veritas. Neither were Bastards in those elder Ages of such Disrepute as now in our Days: Memini me alicubi legisse (saith Spelman in his Glossary on the word Bastardus) Priscos Septentrionales Populos etiam Spurios admisisse in successionem: And where he farther tells us, That King William the Conqueror began his Letter to Alan Earl of Little Britain, as he did many other more, in these words,—Ego Willielmus cognomento Bastardus: of which Title it seems he was not ashamed, otherwise he would never have used it himself.

And therefore the Question being no more than this, Whether Amice was a base Daughter, or no? I will first answer those Reasons which seem to be the chief ground of those worthy Persons abovesaid, who think Amice was no Bastard, and then in or∣der set down my own Reasons why I conceive her to be a Bastard, submitting my self wholly to the Judgment of all Learned Persons herein.

The Reasons that she was no Bastard.

I. OUr Common Law alloweth not, that any Lands can pass in libero maritagio with a Bastard Daughter, Coke upon Littleton, Fol. 21. b. and therefore Amice ha∣ving Land given with her, in libero maritagio, by the Deed, it must be presumed that she was no Bastard.

Answ. To which I answer, That it is true, the Law is so taken at this day with us, but that the Law was so taken in the elder Ages of Henry the Second, when Hugh Cyve∣liok lived, and upwards, I very much doubt: And if we mark well this Grant, it is the Grant of Earl Hugh to Rafe Manwaring, with Amice his Daughter, in Frank-Marriage of the Service of Gilbert Son of Roger, to wit, the Service of three Knights Fees, by do∣ing the Service of two Knights Fees to the said Earl and his Heirs; which is rather a Release of the Service of one Knights Fee, than the Grant of any Land. But to pass by this.—I say that the Common Law in sundry things is altered at this day from what it was in former Ages long after Henry II. Cook upon Littleton, fol. 34. Sect. 39. Cook, ibid. fol. 3. a. fol. 8. a. at the bottom of the Page, and on the other side (b) at the bottom, fol. 26. b. Sect. 29. and infinite other Particulars may be cited. And that in this Par∣ticular also of Passing Land in libero maritagio with Bastards, the Law seems clearly to be altered herein since the Reign of Henry the Second: for the common Practice I take to be the Common Law, and I shall give you here one Precedent, made about the Reign of King Stephen, (and doubtless many others might be mustered up from those elder Ages, if any curious Person would take pains to search old Deeds and Records) which Deed I received from Sir Simon Dewes, transcribed out of a Manuscript in Arun∣del-House in London, belonging anciently to the Barons of Stafford, wherein the old Charts belonging to the Bassets of Drayton-Basset in Staffordshire were Enrolled about Richard the Second's time. Ibid. fol. 67. a.

Ranulfus Comes Cestriae Willielmo Constabulario, & Roberto Dapifero, & omnibus Baro∣nibus suis, & Hominibus Francis & Anglicis totius Angliae, Salutem. Sciatis me dedisse & concessisse Gevae Ridell Filiae Comitis Hughes, Draitunam cum Pertinentiis in libero Conju∣gio,

Sicuti Comes Hughes et in libero conjugio dedit & concessit: Et teneat bene & in pace, honorifice & libere, ut melius & liberius tenuit tempore Hugonis Comitis, & aliorum meorum Antecessorum, eisdem consuetudinibus & libertatibus. Testibus Gilberto Filio Ricardi, & Adelizâ sorore meâ, & Willielmo Blundo, & Alexandro de Tresgor, & Rogero de Bello Campo, & Willielmo de Sais, & Roberto de Sais, & Ricardo Filio Aluredi, & Hugone Filio Osberti, & Henrico de Chalder: Apud Saintonam.

Wherein Geva is called Daughter of Earl Hugh Lupus, as Amice in that other Deed is termed Daughter of Earl Hugh Cyveliok. Now that Geva was a Bastard, is very plain out of Ordericus, a Man that lived in that very Age: He tells us, lib. 10. pag. 787. speaking of Hugh Lupus his Death—Ricardus pulcherrimus puer quem solùm ex Ermentrude Filia Hugonis de Claro-monte genuit, &c. Richard, a brave Youth, whom onely Hugh Lupus begot on Ermentrude, Daughter of Hugh de Claremonte, &c. Nor can this be restrained to the onely Son, for then it must have been otherwise expressed: And if Hugh Lupus had any other Son or Daughter by Ermentrude, then cannot Ri∣chard be said onely to be begotten on her by Earl Hugh; and so Geva was a Bastard, or else Ordericus lyes. Also the same Author tells us, lib. 4. pag. 522. that Hugh Lupus had also many base Sons and Daughters by several Strumpets, who were almost all swept away by sundry Misfortunes; and very probably, if Hugh Lupus had any more legitimate Children by his Wife besides Earl Richard, either Son or Daughter, Ordericus would have Recorded them as well as he hath put down others in like nature, being indeed his usual method through the whole course of his History: And had Geva been legitimate, then her Issue ought rather to have succeeded into the Earldom of Chester, than Randle de Meschines, after the Death of Richard Earl of Chester, forasmuch as the Sister and her Heirs ought to Inherit before the Aunt and her Heirs: And howbeit many Earldoms have Descended to the Heirs Males, and not to the Heirs general; yet in this Case were no Heirs Male, but two Females, an Aunt legitimate, who had it, and a Sister not legitimate: And shew me a Precedent whereever the Heirs of an Aunt Inherited before the Heirs of a Sister, both legally born, and no Heirs Male left, unless in case of Forfeiture by Treason, or some other great Cause to hinder the same.

Secondly, add to these the words of Glanvill, Chief Justice of England, who lived under Hen. II. in that very Age with Amice, lib. 7. cap. 1. Quilibet liber Homo quandam partem terrae suae cum Filiâ suâ, vel cum aliquâ aliâ quâlibet muliere, dare potest in marita∣gium, sive habuerit haeredem sive non, velit haeres vel non, imo & eo contradicente: And if a Man might give Land then in Free Marriage with any Woman whatsoever, then he might give it to his Bastard; and then the Law is now changed: for now it must be of the Donors Blood; and a Bastard is now said not to be of the Donors Blood quasi nul∣lius filius. And it seems to me, that in those elder Ages Bastards were reputed of the Blood, by the frequent Appellation of them by the Names of Uncle, Brother, Daugh∣ter, Son, and Cosin. Besides, our Laws were then imperfect, dark, and obscure in most things, till Bracton under King Henry the Third compiled the Body of our Laws, and brought them into a Method.

And now I have done concerning this chief Reason, whereupon those worthy Judges grounded their Opinions; and we daily see Opinions of Lawyers follow the putting of the Case, which many times upon mature deliberation, and hearing of the Case well argued; may then be of another Opinion.

Now follow the Arguments of lesser moment, which I perswade my self were no Grounds for the Judges aforesaid.

II The disparity of the Years between Hugh Cyveliok and Bertred his Wife, may suppose he had a former Wife; for Bertred was but 26 Years old at the Death of Earl Hugh 1181, as appears by the Inquisition taken 30 Hen. 2. 1183. after the Death of Hugh Cyveliok, and Hugh was Earl of Chester 28 Years, which was one or two Years before Bertred was horn, besides what Years were run up of his Age before his Father Randle died, which may be

supposed to be a competent term of Years; and then it is probable he had a former Wife, and that he stayed not unmarried so long as till Bertred was fit for Marriage.

Answ. Now let us examine the Matter a little, it will give us some light: Robert Earl of Glocester Married Mabill, Daughter and Heir of Robert Fitz-Haimon, Anno Domini 1110. So Stowe in his Chronicle. See also Seldin's Tit. Hon. pag. 647. By her he had Issue four Sons and two Daughters. Maude the younger Daughter Married Randle de Gernoniis Earl of Chester, Father to Hugh Cyveliok. Vincent upon Brook, pag. 216. Now suppose we Maude to be the fourth Child: probably she was not born till about the Year 1117. or thereabout, and that about the Year 1139. she was Married to Earl Randle, whereby Robert Earl of Glocester strengthned his Party for Maude the Empress. At that time she cannot well be supposed to be above 22 Years old, if she were so much. Now Earl Randle died 1153. So that Hugh Cyveliok could not possibly be above twelve Years old at his Father's Death; he might be much less: but sup∣pose we in a middle way, that he was six Years old at his Father's Death, which is more than can be well affirmed, then could not Earl Hugh be above seven or eight Years older than Bertred his Wife: and what great matter is this? I my self was eight years older than my Wife when I was Married; but it is much more probable that he never had any other Wife, because he had many Bastard Sons and Daughters, whose heat of Youth might by a very timely Marriage have been possibly prevented, or at least asswaged in some measure.

III. Bertred, the Wife of Hugh Cyveliok was a Witness to the Deed in Frank-Mar∣riage with Amice; and Amice had a Daughter called Bertred, after the Name of the Coun∣tess, ergo probably Amice was no Bastard.

Answ. Truly this is of so little weight, that it will need no Answer; for I yet ap∣prehend no Reason in it.

IV. Roger Manwaring, Son of Raufe Manwaring, calls Randle Blundevill Earl of Chester and Lincoln, his Uncle in another Deed; wherefore it is to be supposed that Amice was no Bastard, otherwise Roger durst not have presumed to have called the Earl Uncle.

Answ. Histories, Deeds, and Records, are full of Examples in this nature, where we find Bastards frequently called Cosin, Brother, Uncle, Son, and Daughter: for example, Robert Earl of Glocester, base Son of King Henry the First, is frequently called in Histories, Brother to Maude the Empress. Hoveden, pag. 553. He is also so stiled in a Deed made by Maude Empress her self. Selden's Tit. Hon. pag. 649. called also Cosin to King Stephen. Ordericus, pag. 922. Reginald Earl of Cornwall, another base Son of Henry the First, stiled Avunculus Regis Henrici Secundi by Hoveden, pag. 536. Robert and Ottiwell, two Bastard Sons of Hugh Lupus, frequently called Filii Hugonis Comitis Cestriae; and Ottiwell stiled Frater Ricardi Comitis Cestriae. Ordericus, pag. 602 & 783. & 870. Geva, a base Daughter of Hugh Lupus, stiled in old Deeds Filia Hugonis Comitis; and there also she calls Earl Randle her Cosin. Monasticon, par. 1. pag. 439. Also Richard Bacon, Son of another base Daughter of Hugh Cyveliok, calls Randle Blunde∣vill Earl of Chester his Uncle in another Deed, as Manwaring in like manner here stiles him in this Deed. Monasticon, par. 2. pag. 267. Every Man that is but the least versed in Antiquities, knows these things to be very usual.

The Reasons that Amice was a Bastard.

I. IF Hugh Cyveliok had no other Wife but Bertred, then Amice must certainly be a Bastard; for she was not a Daughter by Bertred, as is granted on all sides.

But Hugh Cyveliok never had any other Wife but Bertred; Ergo Amice was a Ba∣stard.

Now the Minor is to be proved by the Affirmer, Oportet affirmantem probare: for as yet I never saw the least proof thereof, either by Deed, Record, or any ancient Histo∣rian, nor yet any inducement of good Reason to incline my belief of it: And till this be done, it is unreasonable to impose it upon any Man's Belief, by supposing that he had another Wife: for Suppositions are no proof at all. It is not enough to suppose Amice might be by a former Wife, but it must be clearly proved, or strongly inferred from solid Reason, that it is so, and that Hugh had a former Wife.

Neither is it a sufficient Answer hereunto to say, That it is unreasonable to conclude all Children Bastards, whose Mothers cannot be proved; God forbid. But in this Case we find a Wife certainly Recorded, and a Son and four Daughters (who were af∣terwards Coheirs, and carried away all Earl Hugh's Lands) clearly proved by Records and ancient Historians. And also Earl Hugh is certainly known to have had many Bastards, both Sons and Daughters; which gives occasion of strong suspicion, that Amice was a Bastard, she being neither Recorded by any Historian, nor ever had or claimed any Land as a Coheir; and therefore here is a necessity of proving a former Wife, which for my part I believe firmly Earl Hugh never had.

II. Whatsoever is given in Frank-Marriage, is given as a Portion: now the Re∣lease of the Service of one Knights Fee in Frank-Marriage, seems not a competent Portion for a legitimate Daughter of the Earl of Chester, especially for the eldest Daughter: for so she must be, being of the first Venter, which always is more worthy than the second, if she were at all legitimate; and we find the other Daughters Mar∣ried to four of the greatest Earls in England: all which is a strong presumption that Amice was a Bastard, and no legitimate Daughter.

To this it may be answered, That possibly Earl Hugh might give Amice a great Por∣tion in Money, though she had no Lands. And I say possibly too, he might give her no Mo∣ney, or at least nothing considerable; which great Portion in Money, when it shall appear to be true, may take off the strength of this Argument or second Reason, till then it must be very pressing.

III. The ancient Historians of our Nation, as Polychronicon, writ by the Monk of Chester, Henry Knighton, the Monk of Leycester, and others; also Stowe and Cambden have Recorded the lawful Daughters and Coheirs of Earl Hugh, and so the Record of 18 Hen. 3. And had Amice been a legitimate Daughter, it is likely that these Histo∣rians would not all have omitted her; but of her there is Altum silentium among all the Historians and Records which I have yet seen; though indeed I look upon this onely as a probable, not as a sure evincing Argument.

These were the Reasons which inclined my Opinion to place Amice in that Order as I have done: But since there are some Learned Men of another Opinion, I must leave every Person to the dictate of his own Reason.

CHAP. VI.

Of Randle the Third, sirnamed Blundevill.

[ 1181] I. RAndle the Third, sirnamed Blundevill, succee∣ded his Father Hugh Cyveliok in the Earldom of Chester, Anno Domini 1181.

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Azure, 3 Garbs Or, 2 & 1.

King Henry the second Knighted him, and gave him to Wife Constance, the Widow of Geffrey his fourth Son, Daughter and Heir of Conan Duke of Little Britain, and Earl of Richmond, Anno 1188. 34 Hen. 2. Polychronicon, lib. 7. cap. 24. But Hoveden placeth it Anno 1187. 33 Hen. 2. for Geffrey died 1186. and left Constance great with Child, who bore Arthur a Son eodem Anno. Hoveden.

This Randle confirms to the Abbey of St. Werburge, all the Grants of his Predecessors, in these words:

RAnulfus Comes Cestriae, Constabulario, Dapifero, Justitiario, Baronibus, Ministris & Ballivis, & omnibus Hominibus suis, Francis & Anglis, Clericis & Laicis, tàm praesentibus quàm futuris, Salutem. Sciatis me concessisse—Omnes donationes & libertates, quas Comites Antecessores mei, scilicèt Hugo Comes & Ricardus Filius ejus; & Ranulfus Comes, & alius Ranulfus Avus meus, & Hugo Pater meus, & Barones tempore illorum, vel in meo, eidem Ecclesiae Sanctae Werburgae dederunt, &c. Testibus Ber∣treyâ Comitissâ Matre meâ, Radulfo de Mesnilwaringe, Hugone de Bosco-ale, Radulfo Filio Simonis, Rogero Fratre Comitis, Rogero Constabulario, Gaufrido de Buxeriâ, Stephano de longo Campo, Alano de Bosco-Ale, Bertramo Camerario, Alexandro Filio Radulfi, Johanne Clerico, Bech Dispensatore, Petro Clerico, & aliis multis: Apud Cestriam in Capitulo Monachorum in Anniversario die Hugonis Comitis Patris mei.

II. I will begin first with the Acts of this Randle, then with his Titles, then with his Wives.

For his Acts. Anno 1194. 5 Rich. 1. Earl David, Brother of the King of Scotland, Randle Earl of Chester, and the Earl Ferrars; with a great Army Besieged Nottingham Castle, which John the King's Brother had caused to be Garrison'd against the King in his absence, whiles he was detained Prisoner by the Roman Emperor. Hoveden, pag. 735. but the Castle was not taken till the King came in Person to Assault it.

Anno 1216. after the Death of King John, on the Feast-day of Simon and Jude the Apostles, the twenty eighth day of October, Henry the Third, being then but nine Years old, eldest Son of King John, was Crowned at Glocester, principally by the Power of Walo the Pope's Legat, Peter Bishop of Winchester, Randle Earl of Chester, and William Marshall Earl of Pembroke, and some others. Paris and Polychronicon.

Anno Domini 1217. after Easter, Randle Earl of Chester, with many others, met about the besieging of the Castle of Mountsorell, by the procurement of William Marshall Re∣gent of England for the young King, which they fiercely assaulted. But Lewis King of France, and the Barons of England, sent Forces from London in the very beginning of May, to raise the Siege. Randle Earl of Chester hearing thereof, with others, came to

Nottingham: The Barons march on and Besiege Lincoln Castle. In the interim William Marshall, Guardian of the young King and Kingdom, Commanded all the Forces out of his several Garrisons, to meet at Newark on Tuesday in Whitsun-week, for the raising of the Siege at Lincoln; among whom Randle Earl of Chester was the Prime Commander: and in the beginning of the Week following they routed the Barons at Lincoln. Mat. Paris, pag. 294, 295. And the Monk of Chester in his Polychronicon saith, That Randle Earl of Chester slew many of the French; so that Lewis the French King seeing his Party much weakned, for a Sum of Money surrenders up all his Garrisons, and returns to France.

Anno 1158. the Abbey of Pulton in Cheshire was Founded.

Anno 1214. that Convent was removed to Deulacresse in Staffordshire, 10 Calendas Maii, by this Earl Randis. Monasticon, vol. 1. pag. 891.

Anno 1218. 2 Hen. 3. Randle Earl of Chester, after he was accorded with Lhewellin Prince of Northwales, took a Voyage to Jerusalem. In which Year Damieta was taken by the Christians. Mat Paris, pag. 303.

Anno 1220. 4 Hen. 3. Randle returning out of the Holy Land, built Beeston Castle in Cheshire, and Chartley Castle in Staffordshire, and the Abbey of Delacresse near Leeke in Staffordshire, of the Order of white Monks* 16.1. Towards the Charge of the Castles he Levied a Tax through all his Lands and Tenants. Polychronicon. Also Knighton, pag. 24. 30.

Nor can I here pass by the Mistake of Bale de Scriptoribus Britanniae, Cent. 3. num. 93. where he writes thus:—

Ranulfus de Glaunvyle Cestriae Comes, vir nobilissimi Generis & in utroque jure eruditus, in Albo illustrium virorum à me meritò ponendus venit, ità probè omnes adolescentiae suae annos, Legibus tùm humanis tùm divinis consecravit: ut non priùs in hominem per aetatem evaserit, quàm nomen decusque ab insigni eruditione sibi comparaverit: Cùm Profecti essent Franco∣rum heroes Ptolemaidem, inito cùm Johanne Brenno Hierosolymorum Rege concilio, Damiatam Egypti urbem obsidendam constituebant; Anno Salutis humanae 1218. misit illùc Henricus Rex, ab Honorio tertio Romanorum Pontifice Rogatus, cùm magnâ Armatorum manu Ranul∣fum ad rem Christianam juvandam: Cujus virtus, Polydoro teste, in eo bello miris omnium laudibus celebrata fuit: Quo confecto negotio, Ranulfus in patriam reversus scripsit unum li∣brum de Legibus Angliae: Fertur praetereà & alia quaedam scripsisse: sed tempus Edax rerum ea nobis abstulit. Anno 1230. claruit, confectus Senio dum Henricus tertius sub Antichristi Tyrannide in Angliâ regnaret. So Bale; and from him Pitseus thus:—

Ranulfus Glanvillus ex Splendissimâ familiâ Cestriae Comitum in Angliâ natus, &c. in his Book De illustribus Angliae Scriptoribus.

These are both mistaken in the Name, confounding Randle Blundevill and Randle Glaunvill together. Randle Glaunvill indeed was Chief Justice of England under Henry II. and writ a Book De Legibus Angliae, yet extant amongst us. He died at the Siege of Accon, Anno Christi 1190. Hoveden, pag. 685. But this Randle Blundevill Earl of Che∣ster is of later time a little, and died Anno Christi 1232. This Earl was at the Siege of Damiata, but writ no Book De Legibus: Glaunvill writ the Book, but was neither Earl of Chester, nor of the Race of the Earls of Chester. So much of Bale. See Spelman's Glossary, pag. 338. b.

Anno 1224. Randle Earl of Chester, John Constable of Cheshire, and others of the Nobility were much displeased with Hubert de Burgo, Chief Justice of England, al∣ledging, that he did exasperate the King against them, and did not well Execute the Laws; insomuch that the Earl of Chester with his Complices at Leycester, in stead of surrendring up the Castles which the King demanded from him, as belonging to the Crown, had thought to have sent threatning Messages both against the King and his Chief Justice; but upon more deliberate Advice surrendred them. Paris, pag. 318, 319, & 320.

Anno 1229. the King having gathered a great Army together at Portsmouth, thought to Transport them beyond Sea, to recover those Lands which his Father had lost; but not finding sufficient Shipping for half his Army, he imputed the fault to the Trea∣chery of Hubert de Burgo, that he should have been Bribed thereunto by the Queen of France; and drawing his Sword to have killed Hubert, Randle Earl of Chester interposed and saved him, that he got out of the King's sight till his fury was past. Paris, pag. 363. And in the same Year Randle Earl of Chester refuseth to pay Tythes to the Pope. Paris ibidem.

Anno 1230. Randle Earl of Chester marched through Anjou, and took certain Ca∣stles, and so returned into Little Britain, where the King had made him Commander in Chief of his Forces, together with William Marshall and William Albemarle. Paris, pag. 367.

Anno 1232. in the Parliament assembled at London, the King demanded Money for the Discharge of his Debts occasioned by the Wars. The Earl of Chester answering for the Nobility of the Kingdom, told him, That the Earls, Barons, and Knights, which hold of him in Capite, were personally with him in the Service, and had ex∣hausted their own Money in that Service, and therefore ought not to pay any thing, and so nothing was Granted. Paris, pag. 372.

In this Year Randle Earl of Chester did a second time save the Life of Hubert de Burgo, when the King being exasperated with Hubert, sent to the Mayor of London to send away all the Armed he could raise, immediately to put him to Death; who in one Nights space were encreased to 20000. willing of the occasion: But the King by the perswasion of Randle Earl of Chester, telling how dangerous it might be to raise such a seditious Tumult, which perhaps could not be allayed when he would, and besides the rumor of the World for such a Fact would be much to his prejudice, Messengers were sent to stop the fury of the People; and so he escaped.

This Randle among the many Conflicts he had with the Welsh,* 16.2 as I find in an ancient Parchment Roll, written above two hundred Years ago, wherein the Barons of Halton with their Issue were carefully collected, was distressed by the Welsh,* 16.3 and forced to re∣treat to the Castle of Rothelent in Flintshire, about the Reign of King John, where they Besieged him: He presently sent to his Constable of Cheshire, Roger Lacy, sirnamed Hell, for his fierce Spirit, that he would come with all speed, and bring what Forces he could towards his Relief. Roger having gathered a tumultuous Rout of Fidlers, Players, Cob∣lers, debauched persons, both Men and Women, out of the City of Chester (for 'twas then the Fair-time in that City,) marcheth immediately towards the Earl. The Welsh per∣ceiving a great multitude coming, raised their Siege and fled. The Earl coming back with his Constable to Chester, gave him Power over all the Fidlers and Shoemakers in Chester, in reward and memory of this Service. The Constable retained to himself and his Heirs, the Authority and Donation of the Shoemakers, but conferred the Au∣thority of the Fidlers and Players on his Steward, which then was Dutton of Dutton; whose Heirs enjoy the same Power and Authority over the Minstralcy of Cheshire even to this day; who in memory hereof keep a yearly Court upon the Feast of St. John Baptist at Chester, where all the Minstrels of the County and City are to attend and Play before the Lord of Dutton: And none ought to use their Minstralcy but by Order and Licence of that Court, under the Hand and Seal of the Lord Dutton or his Stew∣ard, either within Cheshire or the City of Chester. And to this day the Heirs of Dutton, or their Deputies, do in a solemn manner yearly upon Midsummer-day, being Chester Fair, Ride attended through the City of Chester, with all the Minstralcy of Cheshire playing before them on their several Instruments, to the Church of St. Johns, and at the Court renew their Licences yearly.

I cannot here pass by the gross mistake of Powel on the Welsh History, pag. 296. whom Cambden in his Britania seems to follow; where Raufe de Dutton is said to have ga∣thered this Army, and to have rescued the Earl: whereupon he had the Power over the Minstralcy granted immediately from the Earl.

For first, there was never any such an Heir of Dutton of Dutton, that was called Rafe de Dutton. But I shall, for more satisfaction, transcribe the Original Deed made to Dutton, remaining among the Evidences of that Family, which now by a Daughter and Heir is devolved to the Lord Gerard of Gerards Bromley in Staffordshire.

* 16.4SCiant praesentes & futuri, quòd ego Johannes Constabularius Cestriae, dedi & concessi, & hâc praesenti Chartâ meâ confirmavi, Hugoni de Dutton, & Haeredibus suis, Ma∣gistratum omnium Leccatorum & Meretricum totius Cestershiriae, sicùt liberiùs illum Magi∣stratum teneo de Comite; Salvo jure meo mihi & Heredibus meis. Hiis Testibus, Hu∣gone de Boidele, Alano Fratre ejus, Petro de Goenet, Liulfo de Twamlow, Ada de Dutton, Gilberto de Aston, Radulfo de Kingsley, Hamone de Bordington, Alano de Waleie, Alano de Mulinton, Willielmo Filio Ricardi, Martino Angevin, Williel∣mo de Savill, Galfrido & Roberto Filiis meis Bletheris* 16.5, Herdberd de Waleton, Galfrido de Dutton.

In which Deed it is, John Constable of Cheshire (not the Earl of Chester) grants to Hugh de Dutton (not to Raufe de Dutton) the Authority over all the Letchers and Whores of all Cheshire; Salvo jure meo. So as the Right was the Constables, which he held of the Earl; but now transfers it over to Hugh Dutton, about the end of King John's Reign. By the ancient Roll it should seem Roger Lacy rescued the Earl, and now John his Son transferrs this Power to Dutton: Which Original Grant mentioneth nothing of the Rule of Fidlers or Minstrels; but ancient Custom hath now brought it onely to the Minstrelsie: For anciently I suppose the Ro••t which the Constable brought to the Rescuing of the Earl, were debauched Persons drinking with their Sweet-hearts in the Fair, Fidlers, and such loose kind of Persons as he could get; which tract of time hath reduced onely to the Minstrels.

I find in the Records at Chester, inter Placita 14 Hen. 7. a Quo Warranto brought against Laurence Dutton of Dutton; Esq why he claimed all the Minstrels of Cheshire, and in the City of Chester, to meet before him at Chester yearly, at the Feast of Saint John Baptist, and to give unto him at the said Feast quatuor Lagenas Vini, & unam Lan∣ceam; that is, four Bottles of Wine, and a Lance: and also every Minstrel to pay unto him at the said Feast four Pence half-penny: And why he claimed from every Whore in Cheshire, and in the City of Chester, Officium suum exercente, four Pence to be paid yearly at the Feast aforesaid, &c. Whereunto he pleaded Prescription.

And whereas by the Statute of 39 Eliz. cap. 4. Fidlers are declared to be Rogues; yet there is an especial Proviso in the Statute, for the exempting of those in Cheshire, Licensed by Dutton of Dutton, as belonging to his ancient Custom and Privilege: So that the Fidlers of Cheshire, Licensed by the Heirs of Dutton of Dutton, are no Rogues. But enough of this.

This Randle Earl of Chester purchased all the Lands of Roger de Meresey, which he had between the Rivers of Ribble and Mersey in Lancashire, about the 15 Year of the Reign of Henry the Third, 1230. as appears by the Deeds following.

Couchir Book of the Dutchy-Office at Grays-Inn, London: Tom. 1. Comitatus Lan∣castriae, fol. 77. num. 70.

Haec est Conventio facta inter Dominum Ranulfum Comitem Cestriae & Lincolniae, & Rogerum de Maresey: Videlicèt, quod dicti Comes & Rogerus tradiderunt Domino Radulfo de Bray in aequali manu quadraginta Marcas Argenti, & Chartam quam dictus Rogerus fecit Domino Comiti de venditione & dimissione omnium terrarum suarum, quas habuit vel habere potuit inter Ribble & Mersey: Ità scilicèt quòd idem Rogerus sinè dilatione iturus est inter Ribbel & Mersey ad deponendum se de dictâ terrâ, & ad facien∣dum omnes illos (qui de ipso ibidem tenuerunt) Homagia sua facere dicto Domino Comiti, vel fidelitatem ejus Ballivis loco suo Constitutis: & etiàm ad Saisinam de Boulton cùm omnibus

pertinentiis dicto Comiti faciendam: Quo facto dictus Radulfus de Bray saepe-dicto Comiti Chartam jàm dictam reddet, & eidem Rogero dictas quadraginta Marcas: Et si contingat, quòd Tenentes de dictis Tenuris ad hoc, quod praedictum est, Domino Comiti faciendum per ipsum Rogerum adesse noluerint, saepè-dictus Comes, vel Ballivi sui, ipsos compellent ad hoc faciendum. Et dictus Rogerus ad sumptus Domini Comitis itinerabit unà cùm Ballivis Comitis, quoúsque negotium istud, secundùm quod praedictum est, fuerit Consummatum. Et ad majorem hujus rei securitatem utérque illorum praesenti scripto, more Cheirographi, Si∣gillum suum apposuit. Hiis Testibus, Domino Waltero Abbate Cestriae, Domino Willi∣elmo de Vernon Justiciario Cestriae, Radulfo de Bray, Waltero Dayvill, Ricardo de Biron, Johanne de Lexington, Simone & Johanne Clericis.

Charta Rogeri de Maresheia; ex eodem Libro. Comitatus Lancastriae, Num. 79.

OMnibus praesentibus & futuris,—Rogerus Filius Ranulfi de Maresheya, Salutem. Sciatis me vendidisse & in perpetuùm de me & Haeredibus meis dimisisse Domino Ranulpho Comiti Cestriae & Lincolniae, Manerium de Boulton, cum omnibus pertinentiis suis: scilicèt quicquid habui,* 18.1 vel ad me vel ad Haeredes meos accidere potuit, in dicto Manerio de Bolton, & in Parva Bolton, in Tonge, in Halghe, in Brethmete, in Ratecliffe, in Ormeston, in Weffeleg, in Sharplis, in Haghe, in Fanedisch, in Longeere, in Se∣vington, in Chernoc, & in Hedchernoc, in Dokesbury, in Adel∣vinton, in Whitall, in Hirelton, in Skaresbreck, in Heton juxtà Lancaster, in Melner, in Derwente, & in Eccleshill, & in omnibus aliis locis ad dictas terras pertinentibus: in Homagiis, Feodis, Servitiis, Consuetudinibus, Dominicis, Custodiis, Releviis, Redditibus, Escaetis, Advocationibus Ecclesiarum, & in omnibus aliis rebus—: Reddendo indè annuatìm— quasdam Cheirothecas albas, vel unum Denarium, ad Pascha, pro omnibus Servitiis & deman∣dis universis, salvo forinseco Servitio. Et pro hac venditione & dimissione mihi dedit prae∣dictus Comes ducentas Marcas Argenti, &c. Hiis Testibus, Domino Waltero Abbate Cestriae, Domino Willielmo Justiciario Cestriae, Radulfo de Bray, Ricardo de Burun, Galfrido de Dutton, Galfrido de Appelby, Johanne de Lexington, Magistro Gilberto de Weston, Rogero de Derbey, Simone & Johanne Clericis, & multis aliis.

III. Now for his Titles. After that he Married with Constance the Widow of Geffrey, fourth Son of King Henry the Second, and Daughter and Heir of Conan Duke of Little-Britain and Earl of Richmond, which Marriage by the King's Consent was Solemnized in Anno 1187. 33 Hen. 2. as Hoveden informs us, [ 1187] pag. 637. then did he also assume those Titles, and writ himself thus:—Ranulphus Dux Britanniae, & Comes Ce∣striae & Richmondiae.

A Deed or two I shall produce for Proof hereof: One from the Original, which I saw in possession of Peter Daniel of Over-Tabley Esq 10 die Junii, 1650. as fol∣loweth.

RANULPHUS Dux Britanniae, & Comes Cestriae & Richmondiae, Omnibus tàm praesentibus quàm futuris qui Chartam istam viderint & audierint, Salutem. Sciatis quòd ego dedi & concessi Andreae Filio Mabiliae, & Haeredibus suis, ut sint liberi & quieti de me & meis Haeredibus de Teloneo per totam terram meam, & in aquâ, & in ter∣râ, & in Civitate Cestriae & extrà, & à Brevibus portandis, & à Prisonibus capiendis & custodienis, & à Namis capiendis, & à Vigiliis faciendis nocte vel die, & à caeteris hujusmodi consuetudinibus & exactionibus, nèc de querelâ aliquâ in Civitate Cestriae, vel extrà, re∣spondeant in praesentiâ meâ, vel summi Justitiae mei: Et super forisfacturam meam X Li∣brarum prohibeo, ne aliquis eos de supradictis libertatibus impediat vel inquietet, sed eas li∣berè & quietè teneant, Reddendo mihi & Haeredibus meis annuatìm VI Denarios ad Festum Sancti Michaelis. Hiis Testibus, Bertre Comitissa Cestrae, Radulfo de Meinewarin, Radulfo Seneschallo, Hugone de Boidele, & Alano Fratre ejus, Roaldo, Roberto Cam••,

Roberto Saraceno, Ranulfo Dubeldai, Nicolao Filio Roberti, Thoma Fratre suo, Willielmo Marmiun, Ricardo Poibel, Rogero Clerico, & multis aliis. Apud Ce∣striam.

A large Seal of Paste, or kind of White Wax, with the Impression of the Earl on Horseback on both sides.

Also another taken ex majori Libro de Whalley & Stanlaw, Penes Radulfum Ashton Mi∣litem, 1649. Tit. Num. 8. fol. 33.

RANULFUS Dux Britanniae, Comes Cestriae & Richmondiae, Constabulario, Dapifero, Camerario, & omnibus Ministris ejus, & omnibus Baronibus & Militibus suis, & omnibus Hominibus suis, Francis & Anglicis, Clericis & Laicis, tàm praesentibus quàm futuris, Salutem. Notum sit vobis omnibus, me concessisse & hâc Chartâ meâ confir∣mâsse Deo & Abbatiae de loco benedicto de Stanlaw, & Monachis ibidem Deo servientibus, omnes illas libertates & donationes, quas eis fecit Comes Hugo Pater meus; & proùt Charta sua, quam habent Monachi praedicti, testatur.—Testibus Johanne Constabulario Cestriae, Petro Cancellario, Radulfo de Maynilwaringe, Hugone de Boidell, Ranulfo de Praers,Apud Cestriam.

[ 1200] But after his Divorce from Constance, which hapned Anno Domini 1200. he relin∣quished the Titles of Dux Britanniae and Comes Richmondiae, having no Issue by her. She after her Divorce Married Guy Viscount of Thouars, and she died 3 Johannis Regis 1201. Hoveden, pag. 822. leaving Issue by Guy a Daughter called Alice, given after∣wards by the King of France in Marriage to Peter Mauclere Militi suo cum Britanniâ. Vincent upon Brooke, pag. 62, 63. And howbeit Milles in his Catalogue of Honour tells us, That this Randle had the Earldom of Richmond given him, with all the Fees and Priviledges belonging thereunto, the which Geffrey, sometimes Earl of Britain, held in Richmondshire, except certain Knights Fees, which Roald Constable of Richmond, and Henry Son of Harvey, held in the same: The Charter dated at York, 6 die Martii, 6 Johannis Regis, 1204. Yet was he never stiled Comes Richmondiae after his Divorce, though perhaps he enjoyed the Profits thereof for some space; but only Comes Cestriae was his Style, as appears by these following Chartes.

The Originals of these two following Deeds were in the Possession of Mr. Towne∣lay of Carre in Lancashire, June 23. 1657. both of them made in the Reign of King John, as appears by the Witnesses.

OMnibus Sanctae Matris Ecclesiae Filiis,—Ranulfus Comes Cestriae, Salutem. Notum sit vobis me dedisse—Deo & Beatae Mariae, & Monachis de Stanlaw, quietantiam de Bestiis Sylvestribus occisis, vel attinctis in terra ipsorum Monachorum, portandis usque ad Cestriam: & quod dicti Monachi & eorum homines non ideo causentur propter aliquam Be∣stiam aliquo casu mortuam & inventam in terra eorum, nisi fuerit aliquis Sakerbor qui de hoc loqui voluerit adversus dictos Monachos, aut eorum homines: & quod sint quieti de servien∣tibus & Forestariis. Testibus hiis, Rogero Constabulario Cestriae, Warino de Vernon, Hamone de Massy, Philippo de Orreby, Willielmo de Venables, Ricardo de Ald∣ford, Adam & Hugone de Dutton, Petro Clerico, Thoma Dispensatore, Collino de Quatuor-Maris, Radulfo de Munfichet, Gaufrido de Dutton, Adam de Byri, & multis aliis. Apud Frodsham.

RANULFUS Comes Cestriae, Constabulario suo, & Dapifero, Justitiae, & Vicecomiti, Baronibus, & Ballivis suis, Salutem. Sciatis me pro Dei amore, & pro salute Animae meae, dedisse—in perpetuam & puram Elemosynam Deo, & Sanctae Mariae, & Monachis loci Benedicti de Stanlaw, quietantiam de Tolneio per totam terram meam, de Sale & de omnibus aliis rebus quas emerint vel vendiderint ad usus suos propri∣os, tàm per aquam quàm per terram,—&c. Testibus hiis, Rogero Constabulario Cestriae,

Philippo de Orreby tùnc Justiciario Cestriae, Warino de Vernon, Willielmo de Ve∣nables, Petro Clerico, Adam & Hugone de Dutton, Liulpho Vicecomite, Alexandro Filio Radulfi, Bertramo Camerario, Josceramo de Hellesby, & multis aliis. Apud Cestriam.

Both these Deeds aforesaid were Sealed with the Impression of a Lion in an Escocheon, or rather a Triangular form, like a Heart.

Couchir Book in the Dutchy-Office, Tom. 2. Honor sive Soca de Bolingbroke, pag. 116. num. 17.

OMnibus tàm futuris quàm praesentibus,—Petrus Cantor de Quarendona, Salutem. Sciatis me remisisse & quietum clamâsse de me & de Haeredibus meis Domino meo Ra∣nulfo Comiti Cestriae, totam terram meam quam habebam in Weinflet, & aliam terram meam totam in Lindseia, quae pertinet ad terram praedictam de Weinflet: Tenendas praedi∣cto Comiti Cestriae, & Haeredibus suis, Haereditariè in Dominico suo, &c. Hiis Testibus, Thoma Dispensario, Willielmo Picot, Waltero de Coventreya, Juhello de Loning∣neio, Johanne de Pratell, Helya Pincerna, Gaufrido de Sancto Bricio. Engeramo Pisce, Henrico Dispensario, Willielmo Filio Hamonis, Henrico de Civile, & mul∣tis aliis. Apud Baronam.

But when Gilbert de Gant, Earl of Lincoln, was taken Prisoner, [ 1217] who had then for∣feited both his Lands and Honour in taking part with the Rebellious Barons against the King of England, which Title Lewis King of France conferred upon him a little before, to wit, Anno 1216. then was Randle Earl of Chester made Earl of Lincoln by King Henry third, 1217. 1 Hen. 3. for so was the Writ directed to the Sheriff of Lin∣coln, dated at Lincoln, 23 Maii, 1 Hen. 3. Claus. 1 Hen. 3. Memb. 17. commanding him quòd habere faciat Comiti Cestriae tertium Denarium de Comitatu Lincolniae, qui eum con∣tingit jure Haereditario ex parte Ranulphi patris sui. Where, if Vincent hath not mis∣writ the Record, it should have been Avi sui, not Patris: For Randle the Second, sir∣named Gernons, Earl of Chester, was half-Brother by the Mother to William de Romara Earl of Lincoln; as whose Heir, upon this Forfeiture, Henry the Third now grants the Earldom of Lincoln to Randle Blundevill.

Another Writ was dated at Worcester, 15 Martii,* 23.1 2 Hen. 3. directed to the same Of∣ficer:—Praecipimus tibi, quòd recipias Clericum illum, quem fidelis noster & dilectus Ranulphus Comes Cestriae & Lincolniae ad te miserat per Literas suas, ad eundum tecum per Comitatum Lincolniae, & ad recipiendum tertium Denarium de Placitis Comitatus ejus∣dem, nomine Comitis Lincolniae, ad opus ipsius Comitis, sicùt eidem illum tertium Denari∣um concessimus. Vincent upon Brooke, pag. 316. Mat. Paris, pag. 296.

And from this time, to the time of his death, he was usually stiled in all his Char∣ters,—Ranulphus Comes Cestriae & Lincolniae. Some Deeds I shall insert here, proving the same.

Couchir Book in the Dutchy-Office, Tom 2. Honor sivè Soca de Bolingbroke, pag. 111. num. 5. of Lands in Lincolnshire.

OMnibus praesentibus,—Gilbertus de Beningeworth, Salutem. Noverit univer∣sitas vestra me dedisse—Ranulpho Comiti Cestriae & Lincolniae, & Haeredibus suis,—totum Manerium meum de Halton, in Dominicis, in Hominibus, &c. & homa∣homagium Radulfi de Gousle de Feodo unius Militis in Yreby, &c. & totum Manerium meum de Kynthorp, &c. Pro hâc verò donatione dedit mihi praedictus Ranulphus Comes ducentas Libras Sterlingorum: Et adquietavit me versùs Elyam Filium Martrinae Judaeum Lincol∣niae de octiès viginti & decem Marcis Argenti, &c. Hiis Testibus, Radulfo Filio Simonis, Gilberto Cusyn tunc Seneschallo, &c.

Ibidem, pag. 111. num. 6.

SCiant praesentes & futuri, quod ego Gilbertus de Beningworth quietè clamavi—Ranulpho Comiti Cestriae & Lincolniae & haeredibus suis, totum Manerium de Stepinge, quod est de feodo ipsius Comitis, cum tota terra de Halton, & cum Advocatione Ecclesiae de Stepinge, &c. Pro hâc verò donatione & quietâ Clamatione dedit mihi praedictus Ranulfus Comes ducentas marcas Esterlingorum, &c.

Many other of his Charters might be produced, but let these suffice.

IV. Now for his Wives. His first Wife, as you have already heard, was Constance the Widow of Geffrey, fourth Son of King Henry the Second, and Daughter and Heir of Conan, Duke of Little Britain and Earl of Richmond. She was Married to Randle, Anno 1187. 33 Hen. 2. as is before proved.

But upon the Divorce of Constance, Anno scilicet Christi 1200. 2 Johannis Regis, he Married Clemence, Sister of Geffrey de Filgiers in Normandy, and Widow to Alan de Din∣nam. Ferne in his Lacy's Nobility, pag. 58. and Powel on the Welsh History, pag. 296. most absurdly call her the Daughter of Ferrers Earl of Derby: And the Translator of Polychronicon, lib. 7. cap. 32. calls her Daughter of Rafe de Filgiers, who in truth was her Grandfather. But she was Daughter of William de Filgiers, and Sister to Geffrey. See Monasticon, 2 Pars, pag. 997. And for farther proof hereof take these two subsequent Deeds.

Couchir Book in the Dutchy Office at Gray's Inne, Tom. 2. Comitatus Northampton, num. 3.

OMnibus tam futuris quam praesentibus, ad quos literae praesentes pervenerint, Gaufridus de Filgeriis Salutem. Notum sit vobis, me concess••sse & dedisse Ranulfo Comiti Cestriae cum Clementia Sorore mea in liberum Maritagium, totum Maritagium quod cum ipsa datum fuit Alano de Dinnamo priore marito suo: Scilicet totam terram, quam Antecessores mei ha∣buerunt in valle Moretoniae cum omnibus pertinentiis & libertatibus ejusdem terrae: & unum Manerium in Anglia, quod vocatur Belingtona cum omnibus pertinentiis & libertatibus suis, tam liberè & quietè & integrè ut Willielmus de Sancto Johanne illud habuit & tenuit Anno & die quo fuit vivus & mortuus: Qui scilicet Willielmus Manerium illud habuit in Marita∣gio cum Oliva Matre Radulfi de Filgeriis Avi mei: Et si aliqua occasione interveniente non possum ei terras praedictas deliberare, in aliis terris meis de haereditate meâ in Anglia & in Normannia illi perficiam trecent as libratas terrae ad Monetam Andegaviae: Quod si facere non possum, in aliis terris meis de haereditate meâ, Competentem faciam Gratum praedicti Comi∣tis de trecentis libratis terrae ei Perficiendis. Praeterea Dedi praenominato Comiti in liberum Maritagium cum praedicta Sorore meâ totam dotem Matris meae, habendam praedicto Comiti, post decessum Matris meae, integrè & plenariè cum omnibus pertinentiis suis, sicut Pater meus eam dedit Matri meae in dotem: Et ut hoc ratum & inconcussum permaneat in posterum, praesenti Scripto & Sigillo meo ad ipsum confirmavi: Et Willielmus de Humetto Constabularius Normanniae juravit hoc legitimè tenendum, & Sigillo suo confirmavit. Hiis Testibus Wil∣lielmo Constantiae Episcopo, Johanne Abbate Alneti, Angoto Abbate de Luserna, Wil∣lielmo Abbate Hambeiae. Testibus etiam & juratis his, Fulcone Paganello, Willielmo Bac', Hugone de Colonc', Harstulpho de Salingneio, Petro de Sancto Hilario, Hen∣rico de Humetto, Jordano de Humet, Thoma de Humetto, Petro Roaud, Rauno de Per', Juhello de Lavingneia, Juhello Beringen, Johanne de Humetto, Bartholomaeo Abbate, Radulpho de Agnis, & multis aliis.

Ex Originali Penes Simonem Dewes, Militem & Baronettum; Notato EE. num. 12. Anno 1649.

SCiant omnes ad quos praesentes literae pervenerint, quod contentio,* 27.1 quae fuit inter Ra∣nulfum Comitem Cestriae, & Willielmum de Filgeriis super maritagio Clementiae de Filgeriis uxoris praedicti Comitis & Proneptis praedicti Willielmi, hoc modo pacificata est: Scilicet, quod praedictus Willielmus reddidit Gaufrido de Filgeriis Pronepoti suo, ad dandum in maritagio cum Clementia sorore suâ praedicto Comiti, totam terram quam Radulfus de Filge∣riis habuit in valle Moretonii, & sicut de ea Seisitus fuit anno & die quo eam dedit Alano de Dinnam in maritagio cum praedicta Clementia, excepto Dominio Abbatiae Savier∣guen, & exceptis LX solidis Andegavensium, quos idem Radulfus dedit Aeliciae nepti suae (quae est Monialis apud Moreton) habendos quamdiu ipsa vixerit per manum Servientis de Romei er∣geneio; & post decessum ipsius Monialis revertentur praedictae Clementiae, & haeredibus suis: Et praeterea dabit praedictus Willielmus praedicto Comiti centum libras Andegavenses annua∣tim à Natali Domini, quod est anno verbi incarnati 1201. usque ad quinque annos, in nativi∣tate Sancti Johannis Baptistae solvendas: Praeterea concessit praedictus Willielmus praedicto Comiti unum maritagium in denariis Par Tailliae de Augusto, habendum per totam terram Fil∣gerii, excepta villa Filgeria quae Combusta erat: Inter praedictum vero Willielmum de Filge∣riis & Gaufridum pronepotem suum haec est Conventio per Consilium amicorum ejusdem Gau∣fridi facta: videlicet, quod praedictus Willielmus totam terram de Filgiers, sicut Radulfus de Filgeriis eam illi commisit fideliter custodiendam, tenebit à praedicto Natali usque in quinque annos: Et si quis ei super hoc contraire aut eum vexare voluerit, praedictus Comes & Williel∣mus de Humet & alii Amici Gaufridi & homines terrae Filgiers (qui hanc Conventionem fide∣liter tenendam juraverunt) praedicto Willielmo erunt auxiliantes & consulentes pro Posse suo▪ Completis autem quinque annis praedictis, praefatus Willielmus reddet praedicto Gaufrido Prone∣poti suo totam terram Filgerii sine contradictione, sicut Radulfus de Filgeriis eam illi commisit custodiendam fideliter: Quam cum reddiderit, idem Galfridus (qui à praedicto Willielmo requi∣situs fuerit) de jure suo terrae Filgiers per consilium Amicorum utriusque Partis, & hominum terrae Filgerii, faciet quod facere debebit: Et si per consilium amicorum suorum, & hominum terrae, inter se concordari non poterint, per judicium Guriae Domini Britanniae sine dilatione illi faciet quod facere debebit. Et si alter uter illorum contra hoc venire voluerit, tam homines terrae Filgerii quam Amici utriusque partis auxiliantes erunt illi, qui hanc Conventionem tenere vo∣luit; & nocentes ei, qui eam tenere recusavit: Si autem contigerit, Clementiam uxorem prae∣dicti Comitis Cestriae decedere infra quinque annos praedictos, ipse Comes dicto Willielmo de Filgeriis terram de valle Moritonii quietè reddet, si de Clementia haeredem non habuerit: Et si Gaufridus de Filgeriis infra praedictos quinque annos decesserit, idem Willielmus terram Fil∣gerii integrè & sine contradictione aliquâ, & absque termino, Clementia & haeredibus ejus reddet: Et ipsa Clementia & Sponsus ejus tenebunt praedicto Willielmo Conventionem, quam Gaufridus de Filgeriis & Amici sui ei tenere debebant: Amplius Willielmus de Filgeriis de omnibus, quoscunque posuerit in Castello Filgerii infra quinque annos, jurare faciet, quod si ipsum in fata quiescere contigerit, ipsi _____ _____ Gaufrido de Filgeriis, vel praedictae Clementiae sorori suae si ipsa ei superstes fuerit: Et in hac Conventione remanserunt Willielmo de Filgeriis praedicto Maneria in Anglia, soilicet Tuiford & Watkinton, quae Radulfus de Fil∣geriis frater ejus illi dedit pro homagio suo & Servitio, sicut Chartae dicti Radulfi legitime te∣stantur: Et insuper eidem Willielmo remanet Manerium de Belington, quod fuit maritagium _____ _____ & eum contingit jure haereditario ex parte matris suae: Has Conventiones fecit Willielmus de Filgeriis ad Scaccarium apud _____ _____ cum Ranulfo Comite Cestriae & Clementia uxore ejus,* 27.2 & cum Willielmo de Humet quem idem Comes & Clementia uxor sua loco suo assignaverunt _____ _____ super hoc ageret ratum habituri; in praesentia Samsonis Abbatis Cadomi, & Hugonis de Chaucumb, & _____ _____ Guiterii de Motyr, & Decani Sancti Juliani tunc Justitiariorum Do∣mini Regis: Has Conventiones _____ _____ tam praedictus Comès Cestria, quam Willielmus de Filgeriis: Et ex parte Comitis Juraverunt isti, Hugo _____ _____ Praer, Petrus de Sancto Hilario, Petrus Roaud: Ex parte Willielmi de Filgeriis juraverunt

_____ _____ Henricus de Viterio, Gaufridus de Sancto Bricio, Willielmus de Sancto Bricio: Et hoc ipsum juraverunt _____ _____ Fontenai: ut autem hae Con∣ventiones firmae & inconcussae permaneant, _____ _____ Sigillorum Comitis Ce∣striae, & Constabularii Normanniae, & Willielmi de Filgeriis, & Alani filii Comitis, & Gui∣donis de Avall, confirmatae. Actum est autem hoc Nonis Octobris, Anno Incarnationis Do∣mini 1200.

Three large Seals of green Wax appendant.

Anno 1230. Ranulfus Comes Cestrensis munivit Castellum apud Sanctum Johannem de Beveronâ, quod ad jus uxoris suae Comitissae jure haereditario pertinebat, militibus, alimentis, & Armis: Reddiderat illi Castrum illud Comes Britanniae Henricus quando confaederatus Regi Angliae omnia jura sua in Regno Angliae, Rege Concedente, recepit. Mat. Paris. p. 367.

Some have added here a third Wife to Randle, namely Margaret, Daughter of Hum∣frey Bohun Constable of England. So Ferne and Powel, and Brooks in his Catalogue of Nobility, who for this his Error is justly Corrected by Vincent. These Persons are full of absolute Falsities.

It is plain, that Clemence Countess of Chester survived her Husband Randle Blundevill; for she Sued out her Dower. In the Close Rolls, Claus. 16 Hen. 3. memb. 1. A Writ is directed to the Sheriff of Lincoln—Quod de Maneriis de Beminton & de Luneberge, quae sunt maritagium Clementiae Comitissae Cestriae, quae fuit uxor Ranulfi Comitis Cestriae, plenam Seisinam eidem Clementiae habere faciat: faciat etiam eidem Clementiae plenam Seisinam ha∣bere de omnibus terris, quas Bertreia quondam Comitissa Cestriae habuit nomine dotis in Mane∣riis de Wadinton, Normanby, &c. quas quidem Rex assignavit eidem Clementiae loco dotis ad sustinendum: eo tamen Salvo dictae Comitissae, quod plus possit petere in dotem, si non fuerit suf∣ficienter dotata.

How could Randle now have any Wife after Clemence, unless he could Marry when he is dead? away with these Lyes.

But Randle had no Issue by either of his Wives, leaving his whole Inheritance to be shared by his four Sisters and Coheirs, as is before mentioned in Hugh Cyveliok.

V. The Death of Randle the Third, sirnamed Blundevill.

[Obiit 1232] * 27.3Anno 1232. Ranulfus Comes Cestriae & Lincolniae apud Wallingford diem clausit extremum quinto Calendas Novembris [that is the 28. day of our October] cujus Corpus delatum est apud Cestriam tumulandum, viscera apud Wallingford tumulabantur. Mat. Paris, pag. 380.

The Book of Teuksbury thus—Anno 1232. obiit Ranulphus Comes Cestriae 7 Ca∣lendas Novembris apud Wallingford, ubi posita sunt viscera sua: Cor apud Delacres: Corpus apud Cestriam.

Agreeing herewith take this Deed, which I found transcribed in a Paper Book be∣longing to Sir Thomas Delves of Dodington in Cheshire, Baronet, Anno 1668. vouching the Original to have been in possession of Mr. Thomas Rudyard of Rudyard; and to be Sealed with three Garbs or Wheatsheafs, as followeth, made a little before Randle's Death, about the 16 Hen. 3. 1232.

UNiversis—Ranulfus Comes Cestriae & Lincolniae, Salutem. Sciatis me dedisse Deo, & Sanctae Mariae de Delacres, & Monachis ibidem Deo Servientibus, Cor meum post obitum meum ibi Sepeliendum, ubicunque Corpus meum Sepeliri contigerit: Quare volo & firmiter praecipio, quod ubicunque vitam meam finiri contigerit, aut ubicunque Corpus meum tumulatam fuerit, quod haeredes mei & homines mei Cor meum ad Abbatiam meam de Dela∣cres, quam ego ipse fundavi, absque omni impedimento & contradictione asportent, Condendum ibidem, —&c. Testibus W. Abbate Cestriae, Willielmo de Vernon tunc Justiciario Cestriae,—&c.

The Monk of Chester in his Polychronicon thus:—Anno 1232. Ranulphus Comes Cestriae, Lincolniae, & Huntindoniae, obiit apud Wallingford, & sepultus est apud Cestri∣am in Capitulo Monachorum, cùm Progenitoribus suis.

Certainly the Monk is mistaken here in the Title of Huntindoniae; for Randle was never Earl of Huntindon: John the Scot, who next succeeded Earl of Chester, was also Earl of Huntindon.

I find that Randle Earl of Chester and Lincoln, had the Earldom of Leycester given him by Henry the Third, as Cambden in Leycestershire informs us.

For Simon Montfort, Earl of Leycester in Right of his Wife, took part with the French King, and for his Rebellion was expelled England. He was slain at the Siege of Tholouse in France, Anno 1219. Mat. Paris. After whose Death, Henry the Third gave Simon Montfort's Lands in England to Randle Earl of Chester. Howbeit, I find not that Randle ever assumed or used the Title of Earl of Leycester at any time. But Almaric de Montfort, Son and Heir of the said Simon, Petitions Henry the Third, thus,—

Couchir Book in the Dutchy-Office at Grays-Inn, Tom. 2. Comitatus Leycestriae, num. 4.

EXcellentissimo Domino suo, Henrico Dei Gratiâ Illustri Anglorum Regi Almaricus Comes Montisfortis & Leycestriae, Salutem, in eo qui dat salutem Regibus; & cùm omni subjectione tàm debitum quàm devotum ad obsequia famulatum: Vestrae Regiae Maje∣stati multotiès supplicavi humilitèr & devotè, ut mihi terram meam & jus meum, quod ha∣beo & habere debeo in Anglia, quod bonae memoriae Pater meus de vestro tenuit, & tenebat (dùm decessit) pacificè & quietè, mihi vestro Militi redderetis: Quòd quià Dominationi ve∣strae non placuit hucusquè facere, adhuc vestrae Majestati supplico humilitate quâ possum, qua∣tenùs hâc vice mihi vobis servire parato (sicut decuit) reddere dignemini terram. Et si hoc vobis non placuerit, ego ad pedes Dominationis vestrae transmitto Simonem Fratrem meum, qui de Domino Regae Franciae nihil tenet, cui si eam reddideritis, me pro bene pacato tene∣rem. Datum Parisiis Mense Februario.

Whereupon King Henry, 6 Februarii, 14 Hen. 3. Anno 1229. engageth himself to restore all the Lands in England, which were parcel of the Honour of Leycester, cùm tertio Denario Comitatus Leycestriae, to this Simon younger Brother of Almarick afore∣said, so soon as he could get them out of the Hands of Randle Earl of Chester and Lin∣coln; for to him he had formerly granted them.

And afterwards Almarick surrendred up his Right to his Brother Simon, 23 Hen. 3. in these words following.

Couchir Book in the Dutchy-Office, Tom. 2. Com. Leycestriae, num. 5.

SCiant praesentes & futuri, quòd ego Almaricus Comes Montisfortis, Franciae Consta∣bularius, ìn praesentiâ Henrici Illustris Regis Angliae, Filii Regis Johannis, apud Westmonasterium die Lunae proximè post Quindenam Paschae, Anno Regni ipsius Henrici vicesimo tertio, recognovi, concessi, & quietum clamavi de me & Haeredibus meis, dilecto Fratri meo Simoni de Monteforti, Comiti Leycestriae, totam partem Honoris Leycestriae, cùm omnibus pertinentiis in Regno Angliae, adeò plenè & integrè sicut Comes Simon Pater noster, vel Robertus Comes Leycestrensis, illam unquàm meliùs, pleniùs, & liberiùs te∣nuerunt. Habendum & tenendum eidem Simoni Fratri meo, & Haredibus suit de Corpore suo procreatis, de praedicto Domino Henrico Rege, & Haeredibus suis in perpetuùm,—&c. Actum apud Westmonasterium, Anno & Die praenominatis. 1239.

Which the King at that very instant confirmed unto him: But this was after the death of Randle Earl of Chester and Lincoln. Howbeit this Simon lost the same again by his Rebellion, and was slain at the Battel of Evesham, 4 Augusti, 49 Hen. 3. 1265.

Randle, sirnamed Blundevill, was Earl of Chester 51 Years.

These followidg Notes I received from Mr. Dugdale.

* 29.1THis Earl Randle was but of low stature, as we may observe by the Earl of Perch his words to him at Lincoln: What (said he) have we staid all this while for such a Little Man, such a Dwarfe? To whom Earl Randle replied, I vow to God and our Lady (whose Church this is) that before to Morrow Evening I will seem to thee to be higher than that Steeple. So Walter de Wittlesey a Monk of Peterborough; a Manuscript now in possession of the Dean and Chapter of Peterborough.

King John gave to this Randle, Newcastle-under-Lyme in Staffordshire, to hold by the Service of one Knights Fee. Chart. 17 Johannis, num. 25. and also the Custody of all Simon Montfort's Lands, with the Forests, to the use of the said Simon. Ibidem, Mem∣brane 19.

* 29.21 Hen. 3. the King gave to this Randle the Custody of the Honour of Lancaster, and the Castle of Montsorrel, which Randle demolished.

2 Hen. 3. the King gave him the Custody of the Honour of Brittany, in the Coun∣ties of Cambridge, Norfolk, and Suffolk: And he executed the Office of Sheriff by his Deputies in the Counties of Salop and Stafford, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 Hen. 3. and in the County of Lancaster, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 Hen. 3. as by the Pipe-Rolls of those Years appeareth.

* 29.311 Hen. 3. the King gave him all that part of the Honour of Richmond, which he formerly had of the Grant of King John, to hold for Randle's Life, upon condition that he should make no Agreement with the Earl of Brittany to surrender the same up to him, unless the Earl of Brittany could obtain those Lands in Normandy which the Earl of Chester had lost in the Service of King John.

CHAP. VII.

Of John sirnamed The Scot, Earl of Chester.

[ 1232]

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Or, three Piles Gules

I. JOhn sirnamed The Scot, Son of David Earl of Huntington, succeeded Earl of Chester, Anno 1232. 17 Hen. 3. in Right of Maude his Mo∣ther, eldest Sister and Co-heir to Randle the Third, sirnamed Blundevill, Earl of Chester.

His Father David, Brother of William King of Scotland, was Knighted by King Henry the Second, 1170. Hoveden, pag. 518. and made Earl of Hunting∣ton, 1184. Hoveden, pag. 622. and David died about Anno 1219. So that John Scot was Earl of Chester and Huntington.

Take here the Charte remaining among the Evi∣dences of St. Werburge Church in Chester, as fol∣loweth.

OMnibus Christi fidelibus praesens scriptum visuris vel audituris, Johannes de Scotia Comes Ce∣striae & Huntindoniae salutem in Domino. Sciatis me concessisse & confirmasse Deo & Domni Sanctae Werbur∣gae de Cestria, & Abbati & Monachis ibidem Deo servi∣entibus, in puram & perpetuam Elemosynam pro salute meâ & Comitissae meae, & pro

Animâ Comitis Davidis Patris mei, & Comitissae Matildae Matris meae, & pro Animâ Ra∣nulfi Comitis Avunculi mei, & pro Animabus omnium Antecessorum meorum, omnes Dona∣tiones, & Dignitates, & Libertates, quas Comites Antecessores mei & Barones eis dederunt. Insupèr ego ipse do, concedo, & praesenti scripto confirmo praedictis Abbati & Monachis quie∣tantiam de tribus Panibus, quos aliquando solebant dare diurnè ad Turrim Castelli mei de Ce∣stria; & quietantiam de Putura servientium in Villis suis, scilicèt Huntington, Cheve∣ley, Idinchale, Wyrvin, tempore Pacis; & Prestbury & Gostrey in perpetuùm,—&c. Testibus Domino Ricardo Phiton tùnc Justiciario Cestriae, Domino Warino de Vernon, Willielmo de Venables, Hamone de Massy, Hamone de Phitton, Willielmo de Ma∣lo-passu, Willielmo de Boydell, Ricardo de Sonbach, Ricardo de Wibinberie tùnc Vice-Comite Cestershiriae, & aliis. This was made about 18 Hen. 3. 1233.

II. This John Earl of Chester and Huntington, conceiving that an Earl might not lawfully be Summoned in any other County than that whereof he was Earl, did ex∣cept against the Summons in Northamptonshire upon a Writ De rationabili parte, brought against him there, by the other Co-heirs to Randle Blundevill; but was ordered to an∣swer. The Record I have here transcribed, as it is cited by Selden in his Titles of Ho∣nour, pag. 643. ex Fragmentis tempore Hen. 3. quae in Archivis Arcis Londinensis servan∣tur: Orta est ista lis in 18 Hen. 3. quod satìs constat ex placitis 18 Hen. 3. Rot. 14.

NOrthampton—Johannes Comes Cestriae & Huntingdoaiae, summonitus fuit ad respondendum Hugoni de Albiniaco, Willielmo Comiti de Ferrariis, & Agneti Uxori ejus, & Hawisiae Comitissae Lincolniae, quarè deforciat eis rationabilem partem su∣am, quae eos contingit de Haereditate Ranulfi quondàm Comitis Cestriae, & undè ipse obiit Seisitus in Comitatu Cestriae; computâ cùm eisdem Hugone, Willielmo & Agnete, & Hawisia, parte suâ rationabili de Terrâ quam nùnc tenet alibì de eâdem Haereditate. Et Comes aliàs respondit, quòd noluit respondere ad hoc Breve nisì Curia consideraverit, & consi∣deratione Parium suorum, per summonitionem factam in Comitatu Northamptoniae de Ter∣ris & Tenementis in Comitatu Cestriae ubi Brevia Domini Regis non currunt. Et quià usita∣tum est hùc usquè, quòd Pares sui, & alii qui libertates habent consimiles (sicùt Episcopus Dunelmensis, & Comes Mareschallus) respondent de Terris & Tenementis infrà libertates suas per summonitionem factam ad Terras & Tenementa extrà libertates suas: Ideò consi∣deratum est, quòd respondeat.

III. This John Scot Earl of Chester carried the Sword before King Henry the Third at the Marriage of Queen Elianour, Anno Domini 1236. 20 Hen. 3. at which time all the Great Men of this Kingdom used those Offices and Places which had of ancient Right belonged to their Ancestors at the Coronation of the Kings; and is mentioned by Matthew Paris in these words, sub Anno 1236.—Comite Cestriae Gladium Sancti Ed∣wardi, qui Curtein dicitur, antè Regem baiulante in signum quòd Comes est Palatii, & Re∣gem (si oberret) habeat de jure potestatem cohibendi; suo sibi, scilicet Cestrensi, Constabu∣lario ministrante, & Virgâ Populum (cùm se inordinatè ingereret) subtrahente.

This is the first time, saith Selden in his Titles of Honour, pag. 641. speaking of the Title of Earl-Palatine in England, that in express words he found the Earl of Chester called Earl-Palatine; nor hath he observed the word Palatine to be applied so with us, before Henry the Second's time, or thereabout.

For although the County of Chester be frequently called a County Palatine, as well in our Laws, as in common Language, as Comitatus Palatinus, or Palantinus, or Counter-Paleys, corruptly for County-Paleis, as sometimes it is in our Law-Books. And although indeed it be truly a County-Palatine, and hath so continued ever since the first Gift to Hugh Lupus, unless we except the short time whiles it was a Principality, Statute 21 Rich. 2. cap. 9. which was repealed 1 Hen. 4. cap. 3. Yet neither in their Summons to Parliament, nor in any other Writ directed to them, were they stiled Earl-Pala∣tines: Neither do I see testimony to perswade me, that when the first Grant was made to Hugh Lupus, it was granted to him by the Name of Earl-Palatine.

But this Earldom being given him with such Liberties and kind of Regal Jurisdicti∣on, as Count Palatines of Territories in Foreign Parts had, it hath therefore since been called a County Palatine, and the Earls thereof Palatines. Now to be Earl Palatine, was to have the Possession of a County or Earldom ad Regalem potestatem in omnibus under the King, as Bracton well expresseth the same.

And to this day the County Palatine of Chester hath had a Chamberlain, who sup∣plieth the Place of Chancellor; and also Justices, before whom the Causes, which of their nature should otherwise belong respectively to the Kings Bench and Common Pleas, are triable; a Baron of the Exchequer, a Sheriff, and other Officers, proportio∣nable to those of the Crown at Westminster. See more of this County Palatine in my Lord Cook's Jurisdiction of Courts.

IV. The Wife of John Scot.

HE Married Helen Daughter of Lhewellin Prince of North-Wales, about Anno Do∣mini 1222. 6 Hen. 3. This Marriage was concluded on, as a final Peace be∣tween Lhewellin and Randle sirnamed Blundevill, Earl of Chester. Knighton, pag. 2430.

Take here the Agreement about this Marriage, the original Deed whereof re∣mained in possession of Somerford Oldfield Esquire, at Somerford in Cheshire, Anno Do∣mini 1653.—

Haec est Conventio facta inter Dominum Ranulfum Comitem Cestriae & Lincolniae, & Dominum Lhewellinum Principem Northwalliae; Quòd Johannes do Scotiâ, Nepos praedicti Comitis de Sorore suâ primogenitâ, ducet in Uxorem Helenam Filiam ipsius Lheweli∣ni: ità quòd dictus Lhewelinus dabit dicto Johanni in libero Maritagio totum Manerium de Budeford in Warewicâ, & Manerium de Suttehele in Comitatu Wigorniae cùm omnibus perti∣nentiis, sicùt Dominus Johannes Rex ea illi dedit in libero Maritagio: Et totum Manerium de Welneton in Comitatu Salopesburiae cum omnibus pertinentiis infrà villam & extrà. Ha∣bendum dicto Johanni, & haeredibus suis ex dictâ Helenâ provenientibus, sicùt idem Lhewe∣linus ea aliquo tempore meliùs & integriùs tenuit. Et praetereà dabit eidem Johanni mille marcas Argenti, &c. Testibus Domino Reverendo Episcopo de Sancto Asaph, Domino H. Abbate Cestriae, Domino Hugone de Lasci Comite Ultoniae, Philippo de Orreby tùnc Justiciario Cestriae, H. de Aldideley, Gualtero de Daivill, Ricardo Fitton, Edrevet Liagham, Edmundo Filio Righerit, Goronon Filio Edrevet, Helin Idhit, Magistro Estruit, Magistro Adâ, Davide Clerico Lhewelini, Magistro H. & Clericis Domini Comitis Cestriae, & multis aliis.

V. The Death of John Scot.

THis John Scot, Earl of Chester and Huntingdon, died without Issue, at the Abbey of Dernhale in Cheshire, the seventh day of June, Anno Domini 1237. 21 Hen. 3. not without suspicion of being poysoned by the contrivance of Helene his Wife, and was buried at Chester, having been Earl of Chester almost five years: for Matthew Paris saith, Anno 1237. 21 Hen. 3. Johannes Comes Cestriae, Uxore suâ Filiâ Leolini machi∣nante, Potionatus diem clausit extremum circà Pentecosten. With whom agrees Polychroni∣con, Walsingham, and Knighton, pag. 2431.

Helene, the Widow of this John, sirnamed The Scot, did afterwards Marry Robert de Quincy, third Son of Saher de Quincy Earl of Winchester. See Vincent upon Brook, pag. 260. Which Robert de Quincy died Anno Domini 1257. 41 Hen. 3. at the Justs or Tor∣neament at Blie. Matth. Paris, put out by Wats 1640. pag. 942. And I find that Saher de Quincy, Earl of Winchester, had two Sons called Robert; Robert de Quincy, eldest Son, Married Hawise, fourth Sister and Coheir to Randle Earl of Chester and Lincoln, sir∣named Blundevill, by whom he had a Daughter called Margaret, Married to John Lacy, Constable of Cheshire and Baron of Halton, and after Earl of Lincoln in his Wifes

Right, as is before more fully proved in the Issue of Hugh Cyveliok Earl of Chester. This Robert died in the Life-time of Saher his Father; which Saher died 1220. as Matthew Paris recordeth. Roger de Quincy, second Son of Saher, succeeded his Father in the Earldom of Winchester; and this Robert, third Son of Saher, who Married the Widow of John Scot.

VI. But this John the Scot having no Issue, King Henry the Third took the Earldom of Chester into his own hands, and laid it to the Demaine of his Crown; and gave unto the Sisters of John the Scot other Lands, unwilling that so great an Inheritance as the Earldom of Chester was, should be divided (as the King himself said) among Distaffs, Cambden's Britannia Printed 1607. pag. 464.

Now the Sisters were these; Margaret the eldest, was the second Wife of Alan de Galloway, Constable of Scotland, of whom he begot Derbergoille, Married to John Baliol of Bernards-Castle in the Bishoprick of Durham, Founder of Baliol Colledge in Oxford, and died 1269. and was Father to John Baliol, sometime King of Scotland, in the Reign of Edward the First, King of England. Isabel, second Sister to John the Scot, Married Robert de Bruis. Maud, the third Sister, died without Issue: and Alda or Ada, the fourth Sister, Married Henry Hastings. Knighton, pag. 2431.

But the first Wife of Alan de Galloway aforesaid, was the Daughter of Hugh Lacy of Ireland, by whom he had Issue three Daughters; Helen Married Roger de Quincy Earl of Winchester, in whose Right he was afterward Constable of Scotland, but had no Issue Male, onely three Daughters; Christian, second Daughter of Alan de Galloway by his first Wife, Married William de Fortibus Earl of Albemarle; and Mary, third Daughter, died without Issue. Cambden's Britannia Printed 1607▪ pag. 693. Matthew Paris, put out by Wats 1764. pag. 430. where also it appears, that in Anno 1236. Alan had a Brother named Thomas, and also a Bastard Son called Thomas, who by the assistance of their great Allies sought by force to possess themselves of Galloway in Scotland, which the King of Scotland had distributed to the three Daughters and Heirs of Alan; but these Rebels were beaten and dispersed by the King of Scotland, Anno 1236.

But to return to our Earls of Chester. The Line of the ancient Earls of Chester now failing, this Earldom was by King Henry the Third taken into his own hands, Anno Domini 1237. 21 Hen. 3. It remains that I now shew the Earls of Chester of the Royal Blood since this time, which in the next Chapter I shall briefly reckon up.

And observe, that the County of Flint appertaineth to the Dignity of the Sword of the Earls of Chester; and that the County Palatine of Chester is still preserved in the Crown, as a County Palatine, if there be no Creation of the Prince into the Title of Earl of Chester. If the King's eldest Son be created Prince of Wales, then usually is the Title of Earl of Chester also conferred with it; but upon the death of every Prince so created, these Titles are preserved in the Crown till a new Creation.

These Notes following I had from Mr. Dugdale.

HElen, the Widow of John the Scot, held these Lands following, till a Dower was assigned out, viz. Fotheringhay and Jarwell in Northamptonshire; Keweston, in Bedfordshire; Totnam in Middlesex; Bramton, Conington, and Limpays, in Huntingtonshire; Bado in Essex; and Exton in Rutlandshire Claus. 22 Hen. 3. memb. 20.

The Sisters of John Scot had these Lands following.

Devergoil, Daughter of Margaret, eldest Sister of John, had the Mannors of Lud∣dington and Torksey in Lincolnshire, with the Farm of Yarmouth in Norfolk. Tower of London Pat. 22 Hen. 3. memb. 11.

Isabel had Writtell and Hathfield in Essex. Maude, the third Sister, died without issue. Pat. 22 Hen. 3. mem. 4.

Ada, the fourth Sister, had Bromsgrove in Worcestershire, Bolsover in Derbyshire, the

Mannor and Castle,* 33.1 the Mannor and Sok of Maunsfield in Nottinghamshire, and Osward∣beck Wapentake; and Wurfield, Stratton, and Cundover in Shropshire; Wigginton and Wolverhampton in Staffordshire. Pat. 22 Hen. 3. memb. 4. Claus. 22 Hen. 3. mem. 12.

After this, to wit 31 Hen. 3. the Earldom of Chester, with the Castles of Gannok and Disart* 33.2, in the Borders of Wales, were annexed to the Crown for ever. Pat. 31 Hen. 3. mem. 7.

CHAP. VIII.

Of the Titles of Prince of Wales and Earl of Chester, since they were invested in the Crown of England, and who have been so created, with the time of their Creation.

I. KIng Henry the Third brought Lhewellin, Prince of North-Wales, into Subjection, and made Peace with Lhewellin, Anno Domini 1228. 12 Hen. 3. upon Condi∣tion that Lhewellin and his Successors should be called Princes, and do Homage to the Kings of England: Whereupon King Henry received from him three thousand Marks. Knighton, pag. 2436. And then King Henry made a Charter to Lhewellin, which was confirmed by the Pope.

Anno 25 Hen. 3. 1241. David the Son of Lhewellin obligeth himself to King Henry, to hold all his Lands in Capite of the King, and to free his elder Brother Griffith* 33.3, and Owen the eldest Son of Griffith, out of Prison, whom he had unjustly detained; and that the Land of Englesmere should remain to King Henry and his Heirs. Mat. Paris, put out by Wats, pag. 625 and yet did this David acknowledge to hold his Lands in Wales of the Pope, endeavouring to shake off the Yoke of his Fealty to the Kings of England: and Griffith promised by Sureties, if he obtained his portion of the Lands due unto him, to pay 300 Marks yearly to King Henry and to his Heirs for ever.

Now David rebelled, and after much perplexity and destruction of his Lands in Wales by King Henry, he died Anno 1246.

King Henry the Third, Anno Domini 1254. 38 Hen. 3. gave Wales to his eldest Son Prince Edward, by the Name of—unà cùm Conquestu nostro Walliae; as also Gascony, Ireland, and some other Territories recited in the Charter: This was upon the Mar∣riage of Prince Edward with Elinour, Sister to Alphonso King of Spain: Yet (saith Selden) notwithstanding the Grant of Wales, I find no warrant that therefore the special Title of Prince of Wales, as it belongs to the Son and Heir Apparent, began in this Prince Edward. Selden's Tit. Hon. pag. 594. Matthew Westminster, sub Anno 1254. Also Matthew Paris, put out by Wats 1640. pag 890. Nor were the ancient Princes of Wales of the British Blood at this time quite extinct: for Wales was not absolutely subdued till this Prince Edward was King of England; Scilicèt 1283. 11 Edw. 1. So Stowe. Neither did this Edward, whiles he was Prince, ever assume the Title of Prince of Wales, as far forth as I can find.

And for the Earldom of Chester, Cambden saith it was given by Henry the Third to this Prince Edward, who, being taken Prisoner by the Barons, surrendred it up to Simon de Monifort Earl of Leycester, that he the Prince might be redeemed; Sed Simone statim interfecto, ad Regiam Familiam citò rediit. Cambden's Britannia, Tit. Cheshire, ad finem.

And indeed by the Charter of Maxfield, Dated 45 Hen. 3. 1261. This Prince Ed∣ward seems to be possessed of the County of Chester. Howbeit, in this Charter, and all others that I have seen, he useth onely the Title of—Edwardus illustris Regis Angliae Primogenitus, and not at all the Title of Comes Cestriae,

The Charter made to Simon de Montfort of the Earldom of Chester, bears Date 24 die Decembris, 49 Hen. 3. 1264. at Woodstock. Vincent upon Brook, pag 108. whereunto the King was forced to make his Peace: for both the King, and Prince Edward his Son, were then Prisoners to Simon, taken at the Battel of Lewis in Sussex, 12 die Maii, 48 Hen. 3. 1264. See Stowe. Yet Simon enjoyed it but a little space; for he was slain at the Battel of Evesham, the fourth day of August, 49 Hen. 3. 1265. and then all Montfort's Estate was forfeited by his Rebellion; and so the Earldom of Chester re∣verted back to Henry the Third: And I have seen the Copy of the Deed whereby Prince Edward confirms to the Barons of Cheshire, all the Liberties which Randle, sometime Earl of Chester, had formerly granted unto them by his Charter; and in this he is onely stiled—Edwardus illustris Regis Angliae Primogenitus, Dated 27 die Augusti, 49 Hen. 3. which is but 23 Days after the Battel of Evesham: so that the Prince soon had the Earldom again; but I find not that he ever used the Title of Earl of Chester.

II. A Catalogue of all such Princes of England, as have been created Princes of Wales and Earls of Chester, and used these Titles.

1. EDward of Caernarven, fourth Son of King Edward the First, born at Caernarven in Wales, the twenly fifth of April 1284. was Summoned to the Parliament, An∣no 1303. 32 Edw. 1. being now the King's eldest Son living, [ 1303] by the Name of Ed∣ward Prince of Wales and Earl of Chester, Our most dear Son. Selden's Tit. Hon. pag. 594. and was afterwards King of England, by the Name of King Edward the Second.

2. Edward of Windsor, eldest Son of King Edward the Second, born at Windsor Castle, 13 die Novembris 1312. 6 Edw. 2. had onely the Title of Earl of Chester and Flint in his Summons to the Parliament, 1322. 15 Edw. 2. being then scarce ten years old. [ 1322] Cambden's Britannia, Edita 1607. pag. 118. He was also Duke of Aquitain, and Earl of Pontive, created 19 Edw. 2. 1325. Selden's Tit. Hon. pag. 599. and Stowe; and was (after he had deposed his Father) King of England, by the Name of King Ed∣ward the Third; Crowned February 1. 1326.

3. Edward of Woodstock, commonly called The Black Prince, eldest Son of King Edward the Third, born 15 Junii, 1330. 4 Edw. 3. was made Earl of Chester 7 Edw. 3. [ 1333] I find him stiled—Edwardus illustris Regis Angliae Filius, Comes Cestriae, in a Writ at Chester, Dated 13 die Aprilis. 9 Edw. 3. 1335. R. num. 18.

He was created Duke of Cornwall by Patent, Dated 17 die Martii, 11 Edw. 3. 1336. Habendum sibi, & haeredum suorum Regum Angliae Filiis Primogenitis: [ 1336] Per ipsum Regem, & totum Consilium in Parliamento. Selden's Tit. Hon. pag. 752. And he was the first Duke in England, as that Title was now made a distinct Dignity; and by this Creation, not onely the first-born Son of the Kings of England, but the eldest living, are always Dukes of Cornwall, neither needed any new Creation of this Title, although sometimes we find it joyned with the Creation of the Title of Prince of Wales and Earl of Chester. Selden's Tit. Hon. qag. 754.

He was also created Prince of Wales by Patent, Dated 12 die Maii, 17 Edw. 3. 1343. Habendum sibi, & haeredibus suis Regibus Angliae in perpetuùm: Per ipsum Regem. [ 1343] Selden's Tit. Hon. pag. 595. And since this time the Title of Earl of Chester hath been usually joyned with that of Prince of Wales in the Patent. Selden ibidem, pag. 598.

So that now the Black Prince was Prince of Wales, Duke of Cornwall, and Earl of Chester.

In the 40. of Edward the Third, his Stile was —Princeps Aquitaniae & Walliae, Dux Cornubiae, & Comes Cestriae, Lib. C. fol. 181. w. He died June 8. 1376. 50 Ed. 3. in the Life-time of his Father.

4. Richard of Burdeaux, Son and Heir to the Black Prince, was created Prince of Wales, Duke of Cornwall, and Earl of Chester, by his Grandfather King Edward the Third, in Festo Sancti Michaelis, 1376. 50 Edw. 3. Stowe. But Walsingham names onely the

Title of Earl of Chester in Parliament, 1376. pag. 190. Others say he was after created Prince of Wales at Haveringe, 20 Novembris, 50 Edw. 3. Powel on the Welsh History, pag. 385. He had a special Charter for Duke of Cornwall, Anno 50 Edw. 3. Cooks Reports, lib. 8. fol. 30. for he was not eldest Son of the King, his Father dying before he enjoyed the Crown. This Richard was afterwards King of England, by the Name of King Richard the Second. And in Anno 1397. he erected the Earldom of Chester into a Principality, and ordained that no Grant should be made thereof to any Person but to the King's eldest Son onely, if it please the King to make him. See Stat. 21 Rich. 2. cap. 9. But this Parliament was wholly Repealed, 1 Hen. 4. cap. 3. which Henry deposed Richard the Second, and made himself King, 1399.

5. Henry, eldest Son of Henry the Fourth, born at Monmouth Anno 1388. was created Prince of Wales, [ 1399] Duke of Cornwall, and Earl of Chester, about October 1 Hen. 4. 1399. in Parliament; and not long after was created Duke of Aquitain in the same Parlia∣ment, Stowe; and was afterwards King of England, by the Name of King Henry the Fifth. F. num. 99.

6. Edward, onely Child of King Henry the Sixth, born at Westminster, 13 Octobris 1452. 31 Hen. 6. Fabian, pag. 456. He was created Prince of Wales and Earl of Chester in Parliament, [ 1452] March 15. 31 Hen. 6. 1452. and was murthered at the Bat∣tel of Teuksbery, May 4. 1471. 11 Edw. 4. See Vincent upon Brook, pag. 143, He was also Duke of Cornwall by Descent.

King Henry the Sixth was never created Prince of Wales, nor Earl of Chester; he was King whiles he was but an Infant of eight Months old.

7. Edward, eldest Son of King Edward the Fourth, born at Westminster November 4. 1470. 10 Edw. 4. was created Prince of Wales, [ 1471] and Earl of Chester, July 26. 1471. 11 Edw. 4. Vincent upon Brook, pag. 115. and in Anno 19 Edw. 4. He was made Earl of Pembroke and March. He was also Duke of Cornwall, and so Entituled; and was afterwards King Edward the Fifth, but was most barbarously murthered in the Tower by the procurement of his Uncle Richard Duke of Glocester, Anno 1483. who usurped the Crown to himself.

8. Edward, the onely Child of King Richard the Third, created Earl of Salisbury, 1477. 17 Edw. 4. was also created Prince of Wales and Earl of Chester, by his Father, Au∣gust 24. 1483. 1 Rich. 3. being then about ten years old, [ 1483] and died about March 1484. in the Life-time of his Father.

9. Arthur, eldest Son of King Henry the Seventh, created Prince of Wales, and Earl of Chester, [ 1489] November 30. in 1489. 5 Hen. 7. and died without Issue at Ludlow, in April 1502. 17 Hen. 7. about the Age of sixteen Years, in the Life-time of his Father. He was also Duke of Cornwall by Birth.

10. Henry Duke of York, second Son of King Henry the Seventh, after the Death of his Brother Arthur, was created Prince of Wales and Earl of Chester, February 18. 1502. 18 Hen. 7. at the Age of eleven Years; [ 1502] and was afterwards King of Eng∣land by the Name of King Henry the Eighth.

11. Henry Stewart, eldest Son of James King of Great Britain, was created Prince of Wales and Earl of Chester, [ 1610] in Parliament, June 4. 1610. 8 Jacobi, and died Novem∣ber 6. 1612. 10 Jacobi, without Issue, in the Life-time of King James his Father. He was also Duke of Cornwall by Birth.

12. Charles Stewart, second Son of King James, born at Dunferling in Scotland, Nov. 19 1600. was Duke of Albany in Scotland; and was also created Duke of York in Eng∣land by his Father, at Whitehall in London, January 6. 1604. and after the Death of his Brother Prince Henry he was Duke of Cornwall: for the Case of the Dutchy of Cornwall (in Cook's Reports, lib. 8.) was Printed by his Majesty's special Command, 1613. 11 Jacobi where it is set forth, That by the Advice of the Privy Council it was clearly and absolutely Resolved, that Prince Charles (now the King's eldest Son) was in Right, and by virtue of the Statute of 11 Edw. 3. ought to be Duke of Corn∣wall; and therefore his Majesty commanded that Prince Charles his Son should have and enjoy the Honor and Stile of Duke of Cornwall; which he presently had and

enjoyed accordingly. Vincent upon Brook, pag. 146, 147. And on the third of No∣vember, 1616. 14 Jacobi, he was also created Prince of Wales and Earl of Chester; [ 1616] and was afterwards King of England, by the Name of King Charles the First.

A summary Collection of the Earls of Chester contained in this second Part.

• 1. GHerbod, a Nobleman of Flanders, had the Earldom of Chester given him by the Conqueror about the Year of Christ 1068. but going into Flanders, was there taken Prisoner. And then did William the Conqueror give the Earldom of Chester to Hugh, sirnamed Lupus, Anno Domini 1070.
• 2. Hugh, sirnamed Lupus, Earl of Auranches in Normandy, was made Earl of Chester, Anno 1070. He died July 27. 1101. after he had held the Earldom of Chester 31 Years.
• 3. Richard, the onely Child of Hugh Lupus by his Wife, was but seven Years old when his Father died. He was drowned with many others, as he was Sailing from Normandy towards England, Anno 1120. after he had been Earl 18 Years; but had no Issue.
• 4. Randle de Mecinis, or Meschines, Son of Maud, Sister to Hugh Lupus, succeeded Earl of Chester, as Cosin and next Heir to Richard: And he died Anno 1128. having been Earl eight Years.
• 5. Randle the Second, sirnamed Gernouns, Son of Randle de Meschines, succeeded his Father. He died Anno Domini 1153, having been Earl 25 Years.
• 6. Hugh the Second, sirnamed Cyveliok, Son of Randle the Second, succeeded his Fa∣ther: And he died Anno Domini 1181. having been Earl 28 Years.
• 7. Randle the Third, sirnamed Blundevill, Son of Hugh the Second, succeeded his Fa∣ther in the Earldom of Chester. He was also made Earl of Lincoln 1217. and died at Wallingford in the latter end of October, Anno Domini 1232. without Issue, and was Earl of Chester 51 Years.
• 8. John, sirnamed The Scot, Earl of Huntingdon, Son of Maud, eldest Sister and Co∣heir to Randle the Third, sirnamed Blundevill, succeeded Earl of Chester, and died at Dernhale Abbey without Issue, June 7. 1237. having been Earl of Chester almost five Years: from which time this Earldom was seized to the Crown of England.

Finis Partis Secundae.

The Third Part,

Treating of the ancient Barons to the Earls of Chester, with several Catalogues of all the Bishops, Deans, Chamberlains, Judges, Sheriffs, and Escheators of Cheshire, and also of the Recorders of the City of Chester.

CHAP. I.

Of the ancient Barons to the Earls of Chester.

I. COncerning the ancient Barons to the Earls of Chester, of whom I promi∣sed before to speak in this third Part of my Book, these things I have principally to Discuss and Illustrate; the true notion of their Title, the time of their Institution, their Office, Place, and number.

II. For the true notion of their Title, Selden tells us in his Titles of Honour, pag. 688. that the noblest and greatest Tenants to the greater sort of Subjects, had anciently the Appellation of Barons ascribed to them, especially those to the Earls of Chester.

Spelman in his Glossary deriveth the word Baro from the old English-Saxon Per or Wer, and of later Times written Par; Francis Antiquis, Ber, signifying the same with the La∣tine word Vir; Glossarium Latino-Gallicum, Ber, Bara, Vir; so that the Latine word Vir seems to be the original Fountain whence it springs. And both these words Baro, by some written Varo, and Vir, do agree in their several significations; sometimes for a Man barely and absolutely; sometimes for a Man of Worth, Power, or Prowess; sometimes for a Husband.

For the notion of the word here, it denotes as much as Magnates or Optimates: where we may observe, That Noblemen, or Barons, seem to be a necessary Supplement, as essential to the Royalty of a Count Palatine: for the Earl of Chester having Royal Authority within himself, we may not unfitly stile him a petty King: And that the Majesty of his Palace may be answerable to a King, he must have Noblemen about him, in imitation of the Barons of the Kingdom. Hence also the Earls of Chester sub∣tuted Offices, making the Baron of Halton Constable in Cheshire in Fee, in imitation of the Lord High-Constable of England; and making the Baron of Montalt Steward of Cheshire in Fee, after the example of the Lord High-Steward of England. These Ba∣rons under the Earl Ruled and Governed the County; and from their great Power and Sway, had the Appellation of Barons.

III. As to the time of their first Institution, I find the Great Men of Cheshire about

the Earl, stiled Barons in the time of Hugh Lupus: In the Charter of his Foundation of the Monastery of St. Werburge in Chester, Anno 1093. 6 Willielmi Rufi, in the conclu∣sion thereof it is said,—Ego Comes Hugo & mei Barones confirmavimus ista omnia coràm Anselmo Archiepiscopo, &c. Neither must we fondly imagine or expect any formal Creation of them, either by Patent (for such are of later Times by much,) or any so∣lemn Investure. But (as I conceive) upon the conferring of the Earldom of Chester on Hugh Lupus by the Conqueror, Anno Domini 1070. the principal Gentlemen and Com∣manders under Earl Hugh, being called to advise and assist the said Earl (either in any time of imminent danger, or in regulating and ordering the more weighty Affairs of the County) were of course so stiled: and thus I conceive they retained the Name of Ba∣rons by little and little, after the manner of the Great Nobles of the Realm.

IV. And hence may we guesse their Office, Adesse Comiti in Concilio, as Cambden hath it, to assist the Earl in Council upon all grand Designs and Affairs.

V. Concerning their Place of Precedence and Dignity, we must consider them either in relation to others, or among themselves.

In relation to others out of the County, I conceive them inferior to the rank of the Barons of our Realm; for these are but titularly or analogically Barons (as I may so speak) to those of the Kingdom; nay, in Place beneath all Knights: but they were the greatest Men in the County under the Earl for Power and Estate.

Their Priority or Dignity among themselves we shall trace as exactly as we can, in so remote and obscure a Path. Some would have the Baron of Malpas to be the prime Baron, forasmuch as Robert Fitz-Hugh (who was Baron of Malpas under Hugh Lupus in the Conqueror's time) hath for the most part the preeminence in the Subscription of old Charts of those ancient Times, as also in the Record of Dooms-day Book, where among all the rest of the Barons he is put down first next after the Earl; and by which it appears also that he held more Land in this County than any one of the rest, ex∣cept William Malbedenge. But this Difficulty is easily removed, if we consider the un∣certainty of Subscription of Witnesses; but especially admitting him to be the prime Baron, till certain Offices were annexed to other Barons: After which time the mat∣ter is without controversie; for William Fitz-Nigell, Baron of Halton, being made Constable of Cheshire in Fee, carries it clear by his Office annexed to his Barony. And for further satisfaction take this Charter, remaining in one of the Couchir Books in the Dutchy-Office at Gray's-Inne, London; Scilicèt Tom. 1. Comitatus Cestriae, num. 2. fol. 41. which Deed was made in the Reign of King Stephen by Randle the Second, sirnamed Gernouns, to Eustace Fitz-John, who Married the elder Daughter and Coheir to William Fitz-Nigell: for William the younger died without Issue.

RANULFUS Comes Cestriae, Episcopo Cestriae, Dapifero, Baronibus, Justiciariis, Castellanis, Vice-comitibus, Ministris & Ballivis, & omnibus hominibus suis Francis & Anglis, Clericis & Laicis, Salutem. Proculdubiò Scitote me reddidisse & dedisse Eustachio Filio Johannis totum honorem qui fuit Willielmi Filii Nigelli Constabularii Cestriae, in rebus & dignitatibus omnibus: Et ipsum Eustachium constituisse haereditariè Constabularium, & Supremum Consiliarium post me supèr omnes Optimates & Barones totius terrae meae: Ea pro∣ptèr volo & firmitèr praecipio, de sicùt ei rectum suum reddidi & donavi, & concessi Consta∣bulariam & honorem integrum Constabulariae Cestriae & totius terrae meae; quòd in omnibus rationabilitèr ei intendatis sicut Corpori meo: Proindè Praecipio, quòd ipse Eustachius & haere∣des sui de me & de haeredibus meis praedictum honorem & terram, & tenuram totam pertinen∣tem eidem honori scilicèt Constabulariae, teneat ità benè & honorificè, & liberè & quietè, sicùt unquàm Willielmus Nigelli Filius meliùs & liberiùs tenuit, & sicùt Willielmus Constabula∣rius ejus Filius in vitâ suâ honorabiliùs tenuit, & die quâ fuit vivus & mortuus: Teneat etiàm ità liberè & quietè, sicùt unquàm Willelmus Filius Nigelli tenebat in tempore Comitis Hugonis, & Comitis Ricardi, & tempore Patris mei Ranulfi, in villâ & extrà, in foro & mercato, in bosco & plano, in pratis & pascuis, in viis & Semitis, in Forestis, in molendinis

& aquis, in Piscariis & Stagnis, & in omnibus aliis locis, cùm Soccâ & Saccâ, & Tol & Theam, Infangetheof, & cùm Sciris & Hundredis, & cùm omnibus consuetudinibus, & li∣bertatibus omnibus & quietantiis. Testibus Willielmo Comite Lincolniae, & Willielmo de Percei, & Turstano Banester, & Simone Filio Willielmi, & Normanno de Verdon, & Ricar∣do Pincernâ, & Roberto Basset, & Simone de Tuschet, & Gaufrido Dispensatore, & Ivone Constabulario de Coventriâ, Ricardo de Vernon, Walchelino Mamicoc, Hugone de Nueris, Ro∣gero de Maletoc, & VVillielmo Malebenge, Hugone de Sancto Paulo, & VVillielmo de Vecy, & Huberto de Muntehan, & Rogero Flamiagvill, & VVillielmo Filio Guerii, Reginaldo Basset, & VVillielmo Capellano & Herveo Filio VVillielmi, & VVillielmo Capellano Comitis Ce∣striae, & Rogero Filio Ricardi, & Gisleberto de Aquilâ. Apud Coventriam.

By this Charter you find first the words Optimates & Barones explaining and ex∣pounding one another. Next you have the Preheminence given to the Constable of Cheshire (who was the Baron of Halton) above all the other Barons of the Earl: and this appears also in the form of all the Charters made by the Earls of Chester in those ancient Times, where the Stile runs—Ranulfus Comes Cestriae Constabulario, Dapifero, Baronibus, &c. Salutem: where the Constable is first named, then the Steward, then the Barons in general; onely in this Chart abovesaid the Constable is omitted, in re∣gard he was Party to the Deed, and in whose room it is directed to the Bishop; But Dapifero follows in his proper place: So that the Constable had the first place, the Steward next after him, and then the other Barons followed in their order. And in this order they are ranked by Cambden and Spelman:

• 1. Baro de Halton. He was High-Constable of Cheshire in Fee.
• 2. Baro de Monte alto. He was High-Steward of Cheshire in Fee.
• 3. Baro de VVich-Maldebeng (id est) Nant-wich.
• 4. Baro de Malpas.
• 5. Baro de Shibbroke.
• 6. Baro de Dunham-Massie.
• 7. Baro de Kinderton.
• 8. Baro de Stockport.

According to this order I think little scruple can be made, unless it be for the Barony of Malpas, why he should not precede the Baron of VVich-Malbeng, notwithstanding the Offices annexed to the two first Barons. Now the Issue of Robert Fitz-Hugh failing (who was the first Baron of Malpas,) another came in his room of as distinct a Stock and Linage; but where or how to be placed, let the more curious determine, I have here placed him next after the Baron of VVich-Malbeng.

VI For the number of these Cheshire Barons, it is not yet sufficiently agreed. Spel∣man in his Glossary on the word Baro, with its several Notions, saith thus:—Ab Hu∣gone Lupo institutos esse Barones certum est: Sed de numero non ità convenit: Quidam XII asserunt, ipsumquè Conquestorem Hugoni Persuasisse ut pauciores non crearet; Pollicitus se largiturum eis idonea Patrimonia in Angliâ, si Comes hoc nequivit in suâ Patriâ: Reperiun∣tur verò (de quibus praecipuè constat) octo tantùm. Nam quos alii Suggerunt, suspecti ha∣bentur.

• ...Nigellus—Baro de Halton: [seu potiùs VVillielmus Filius Nigelli.]
• * 34.1 Robertus—Baro de Monte alto.
• ...VVillielmus Malbeng—Baro de VVich-Malbeng.
• ...Ricardus Vernon—Baro de Shibbroke.
• ...Robertus Filius Hugonis—Baro de Malpas.
• ...Hamo de Massy—Baro de Dunham-Massy.
• ...Gislebertus de Venables—Baro de Kinderton.
• ...N. _____ _____ Baro de Stockport.

But for the better clearing of this Point, it is certain that in the Conquerour's time there were some other Barons and Men of eminency about the Earl, than what are here reckoned up; but these are all, whose Heirs and Posterity have been certainly known, and accounted Barons by long continuance to the successive Earls of Chester: And of all these, their Names and Families were long since extinct, except the Line of Gilbert Venables, whose Name and Family continueth at this day, and is yet commonly stiled Baron of Kinderton; all the rest, with their whole Possessions, are devolved to other Persons and Families, by Marriage of their several Daughters and Heirs, and so became extinct long time ago.

And if any ask me what other Barons were in the time of Hugh Lupus? I answer: Robert of Rothelent was one of Earl Hugh's Barons, and not the meanest; for he was the principal Commander of all the Forces in Cheshire, and the prime Governour of the County under Earl Hugh his Cosin. Ordericus, pag. 670. But we find no mention of his Posterity in succeeding Ages among us, and therefore not reckoned as a Baron among those, whose Heirs and Posterity have by long continuance obtained the Ti∣tle and Honour, as it were hereditarily, under the successive Earls: And the like per∣haps may be said of some others.

Neither must I here forget a touch of Vincent (whose Corrections need a Corrector) in his Review of York's second Edition, pag. 661, 662, where he saith, That he be∣lieves the Barons of Cheshire are not so ancient as the time of Hugh Lupus. But whether he believe it or no, it is most certain they were stiled Barons in the Charter of Hugh Lupus, of the Foundation of the Monastery of St. Werburge in Chester, Anno 1093. which Charter I have at large transcribed above in the second Part of this Book.

VII. As to the Baron of Stockport, mentioned in the last place by Spelman, it is much to be doubted whether he were any of the ancient Barons to the Earls of Chester; howbeit his Arms are put up in the Exchequer at Chester among the Barons: but all those Arms were but of late times put up there, and where the Baron of Monte-alto is most unjustly placed above the Baron of Halton.

It is certain, that in Dooms-day Book we find not any Person that held Stockport; whereby it may seem then to be waste and not inhabited. And as concerning Sir Ri∣chard de Stockport and his Family, we find little or no mention before the Reign of Henry the Third, in which King's Reign the ancient Earls of Chester were extinct: So that the Family of Stockport could be none of the ancient Barons.

VIII. I shall conclude this Chapter with the Charter of Randle the Third, sirnamed Blundevill, [ 1218] to his Barons of Cheshire, made about the Year of Christ 1218. granting them many Priviledges, transcribed by me out of a little Parchment Book in Quarto, remaining among the Records in the Dutchy-Office at Gray's-Inne, London, Fol. 107.

RANULFUS Comes Cestriae, Constabulario, Dapifero, Justiciario, Vicecomiti, Baronibus, Ballivis, & omnibus Hominibus suis & Amicis, praesentibus & futuris, praesentem Chartam inspecturis & audituris, Salutem. Sciatis me Cruce signatum pro amore Dei, & ad Petitionem Baronum meorum Cestershiriae, concessisse eis & haeredibus suis, de me & haeredibus meis, omnes libertates in praesenti Chartâ subscriptas in perpetuùm tenendas & habendas: Scilicèt, quod unusquisque eorum Curiam suam habeat liberam de omnibus Placitis & quaerelis in Curiâ meâ motis, Exceptis Placitis ad Gladium meum Pertinentibus: Et quòd si quis hominum suorum pro aliquo delicto captus fuerit per Dominium suum, sinè redemptione replegietur: Ità quòd Dominus suus eum perducat ad tres Comitatus; & eum quietum redu∣cat, nisi Sacraber eum Sequatur: Et si aliquis Adventitius (qui fidelis sit) in terras eorum ve∣nerit, & ei placuerit ibidèm morari, liceat Baroni ipsum habere & retinere, salvis mihi Advo∣cariis qui Sponte ad me venerint, & aliis qui pro Transgressu aliundè ad Dognitatem meam ve∣nerint, & non eis: Et unusquisque Baronum, dùm opus fuerit, in Werrâ plenariè faciat Ser∣vitium tot Feodorum militum quot tenet: Et eorum milites & liberè tenentes loricas aut Haubergella habeant, & Feoda sua per Corpora sua defendant, licèt milites non sint: Et si aliquis

eorum talis sit, quod terram suam per Corpus suum defendere non possit, alium sufficientem in loco suo ponere posset: Nec ego Nativos eorum ad arma jurare faciam, sed Nativos suos qui pèr Ranulfum de Davenham ad advocationem meam venerint, & alios Nativos suos (quós suos esse rationabilitèr monstrare poterant) ipsos quietos Concedo: Et si Vicecomes meus, aut aliquis Serviens, in Curiâ meâ aliquem Hominum suorum inculpaverit, Per Thiertnic se de∣fendere poterit proptèr Shirife-Tooth, quod reddunt nisi Secta eum sequatur: Concedo etiàm eis quietantiam de Garbis & Oblationibus, quas Servientes mei & Bedelli exigere solebant: Et quòd si aliquis Judex aut Sectarius Hundredi aut Comitatus in Curiâ meâ Misericordiam inciderit, per duos solidos quietus sit Judex de Misericordiâ, & Sectarius per duodecem dena∣rios: Concedo etiàm eis libertatem assertandi terras suas infrà divisas Agriculturae suae in Fo∣restâ: Et si Landa aut Terra infra divisas villae suae fuerit, quae priùs culta fuit ubi nemus non crescat, Liceat eis illam colere sinè herbergatione: Et liceat eis Housbote & Haybote in ne∣more suo Capere de omni genere Bosci sinè visu Forestarii: Et mortuum suum Boscum dare aut vendere cui voluerint: Et Homines eorum non implacitentur de Forestâ de superdicto, nisi cùm manuopere inveniantur: Et unusquisque omnia Maneria sua Dominica in Comitatu & Hundredo, per unum Seneschallum praesentem defendere possit: Concedo etiàm quòd mortuo viro Uxor sua per quadraginta dies pacem habeat in Domo suâ, & haeres suus (si aetatem habue∣rit) per rationabile relevium haereditatem suam habeat; scilicèt feodum militis per centum soli∣dos; neque Domina, neque Haeres maritetur, ubi disparagetur; sed per gratum & assensum Ge∣neris sui maritetur: Et eorum Legata teneantur: Et nullus eorum nativum suum amittat oc∣casione si in Civitate Cestriae venerit, nisi ibi manserit per unum annum & unum diem sinè Calumniâ: Et proptèr grave Servitium quod in Cestershiria faciunt, nullus eorum extrà Li∣mam Servitium mihi faciat nisi per Gratum suum & ad Custum meum. Et si milites mei de Anglia Summoniti fuerint, qui mihi Wardam apud Cestriam debent, & venti sunt ad War∣dam suam faciendam, & exercitus aliundè inimicorum meorum non sit in praesenti, nèc opus fuerit, benè liceat Baronibus meis interìm ad Domos suas redire & requiescere: Et si exercitus inimicorum meorum promptus fuerit de veniendo in Terram meam in Cestershire, vel si Castel∣lum assessum fuerit, praedicti Barones cùm toto exercitu suo avisu suo statìm ad Summonitionem meam venient ad removendum exercitum illum ad posse suum: Et cùm exercitus ille de Terrâ meâ recessus fuerit, praedicti Barones cùm exercitu suo ad Terras suas redire poterint & quie∣scere, dùm milites de Anglia VVardam suam facient, & ad opus de eis non fuerit, Salvis mihi Servitiis suis quae facere debent. Concedo etiàm eis, quòd in tempore Pacis tantùm duodecem Ser∣vientes itinerantes habeant in terrâ meâ cùm uno equo qui sit Magistri Servientis, qui etiàm Pre∣bendam non habeat à Pascha usquè ad Festum Sancti Michaelis, nisi per gratum: Et ut ipsi Servientes Comedant Cibum, qualem in Domibus Hominum invenerint, sinè emptione alte∣rius Cibi ad opus eorum: nèc in aliquibus Dominicis Baronum Comedant: Et tempore Guerrae pèr Consilium meum, aut Justiciarii mei, & ipsorum, Ponantur Servientes sufficientes ad ter∣ram meam Custodiendam, prout opus fuerit: Et sciendum est, quòd praedicti Barones Petitiones Subscriptas, quas à me requirebant, omninò mihi & haeredibus meis de se & haeredibus suis re∣miserunt: ità quòd nihil de eis de caetero clamare poterint, nisi per Gratiam & Misericordiam meam: Scilicèt Seneschallus Petitionem de Wrec & de Pisce in terram suam per mare dejecto: & de Bersare in Forestâ meâ ad tres Arcus; & de percursu Canium suorum: Et alii Petitio∣nem de Agistamento Porcorum in Forestâ meâ, & de Bershare ad tres Arcus in Forestâ meâ, vel ad cursus Leporariorum suorum in Forestâ in eundo versùs Cestriam per Summonitionem, vel in redeundo: & Petitionem de Misericordiâ Judicum de Wich triginta Bullionibus Salis: sed erunt Misericordia & Leges in Wich tales, quales prius fuerint. Concedo igitùr, & prae∣senti Chartâ meâ confirmo de me & haeredibus meis, Communibus Militibus omnibus & liberè Tenentibus totius Cestershire & eorum haeredibus, omnes praedictas libertates habendas & tenendas de Baronibus meis & de caeteris Dominis suis, quicunque sint, sicut ipsi Barones & Milites & caeteri liberè Tenentes eas de me tenent. Hiis Testibus, Hugone, Abbate Sanctae Werburgae Cestriae, Philippo Orreby tùnc temporis Justiciario Cestriae, Henrico de Aldithley, Waltero Deyvell, Hugone Dispensario, Thoma Dispensario, Willielmo Pincerna, Waltero de Coventrey, Ricardo Phitton, Roberto de Cowdrey, Ivone de Caletoft, Roberto de Say, Normanno le Painter, Roberto Dispensario, Roberto Dey∣vell, Mattheo de Vernon, Hamone de Venables, Roberto de Massy, Alano de Waley,

Hugone de Columbe, Roberto de Pulford, Petro Clerico, Hugone de Pasey, Jocera∣lino de Hellesby, Ricardo de Bresby, Ricardo de Kingsley, Philippo de Terven, Liulfo de Twamlowe, Ricardo de Perpoint, & toto Comitatu Cestriae.

This Charter I have here, for the satifaction of some, translated also into English, as followeth, with the exposition of the hardest words.

RANDLE Earl of Chester, To his Constable, Steward, Judge, Sheriff, Barons, Bailiffs, and to all his Tenants and Friends, present and to come, that shall see or hear this Charter, Sendeth Greeting. Know ye, that I being Signed with the Cross* 36.1 for the love of God, and at the Request of my Barons of Cheshire, have granted to them and their Heirs, from me and my Heirs, all the Liberties in this present Charter underwritten, to have and to hold for ever: to wit, That every one of them may have his own Court free from all Pleas and Plaints moved in my Court, except such Pleas as be∣long to my Sword† 36.2: And if any of their Tenants shall be taken for any Offence within their Fee or Lordship, he shall be Replevied with∣out any Ransom, so as his Lord bring him to three County Courts; and then he may carry him back as acquit, unless* 36.3 Sakerborh do follow him. And if any Stranger (who is faithful) shall come upon their Land, and desires to dwell there, it shall be lawful for the Baron of that Fee to have and retain him, saving to me the Advowries who shall come to me on their own accord, and others who for any Trespass elsewhere shall come unto my Dignity, and not to them. And every one of my Barons, when need requireth, shall in time of War do the full Service of so many Knights Fees as he holdeth: And their Knights and Freeholders shall have their Coats of Mayle and Haubergeons; and may defend their own Land by their Bodies, although they be not Knights: And if any of them be such a one, that he cannot defend his own Land by his Body, he may put another sufficient Person in his Place: Neither will I compell their Villanes to take Arms; but I do hereby acquit their Villanes, which by Randle of Davenham shall come to my Protection, and other their Villanes, whom they can reasonably shew to be their own. And if my Sheriff, or any Officer, shall Implead any of their Tenants in my Court, he may defend himself by Thirtnic* 36.4 for the Sheriffs-Tooth, which they do pay, unless fresh Suit do follow him. I do also grant unto them ac∣quittance from the Corn and Oblations, which my Serjeants and Bedells were wont to require; and that if any Judger† 36.5, or Suitor of the Hundred or County-Court, shall be Amerced in my Court, the Judger shall be quit from his Amercement for Two shillings, and the Suitor for Twelve pence. I do also grant unto them liberty of In∣closing their Lands within the Boundaries of their Tillage in the Forrest: And if there shall be a Land or parcel of Ground within the Boundary of their Town∣ship, which hath been formerly Manured, where no Wood groweth, it shall be lawful to Till the same without Graizing: And they may also take Housebote and Haybote in their VVoods, of all manner of VVood, without the view of my Forester; and may give or sell their dead VVood to whom they please, and their Tenants shall not be Impleaded for the same in the Forest Court, unless they be found in the manner or very act. And every one of my Barons may defend all his Mannors and Lordships in the County or Hundred Court, by having a Steward present. I do also grant, That the Wife, upon the Death of her Husband, shall remain peaceably in her House forty Days: And the Heir (if he be at Age) shall have his Heritage for reasonable Relief, to wit, Five Pounds for a Knights Fee: Nor shall the VVidow, nor the Heir, be Married where they may be disparaged, but shall be Married by the free assent of their Kindred. None of them shall lose his Villane by reason of his coming into the City of Chester, unless the same hath re∣mained there a Year and a Day without claim. And in regard of the great Service which my Barons do me in Cheshire, none of them shall do me Service beyond the Lime* 36.6, but at their own free will, and at my Cost. And if my Knights from England shall be Summoned, which ought to VVard at Chester, and are come to keep their VVard, and that there be no Army of my

Enemies at present from some other Place, and that there be no need, then my Barons may in the mean time return unto their own Houses, and take their ease: And if an Army of my Ene∣mies be ready to come into my Land in Cheshire, or if the Castle be Besieged, the aforesaid Ba∣rons, upon my Summons, shall immediately come with all their Army, to remove the Enemy ac∣cording to their Power: And when that Army of the Enemy shall retreat out of my Land, the said Barons may return to their own Homes and Rest, while my Knights from England keep the Guard, and that there shall be no need of my Barons, saving unto me the Services which the Barons ought to do. I do also grant unto them, that in time of Peace they may have onely twelve Sergeants itinerant in my Land, with one Horse of the Master Sergeant, which shall have no Provend from Easter to Michaelmas, but by curtesie: And that the Sergeants eat such Meat as they shall find in Mens Houses, without buying any other Provision for their use: Nor shall they eat in any Mannor-Houses of the Barons. And in the time of War shall be appointed Serge∣ants sufficient for the keeping of my Land, by my Advice, and by the Advice of my Judge and Barons, as need shall require. And you are to know, that my Barons aforesaid have for them and their Heirs, released to me and my Heirs, the Petitions under written, which they desired from me; so that they can challenge nothing hereafter of them, but by my free Favour and Mercy:

To wit, my Steward hath released his Petition of Wrec, and of Fish cast upon his Land by the Sea, and liberty of shooting Deer in my Forrest for three Shoots* 36.7, and for the running of his Dogs.

Others their Petition for Lay of their Swine in my Forrest, and shooting at Deer for three Shoots, and for running their Greyhounds in the Forrest going to Chester upon Summons, or in returning; and also the Petition of the Amercement of the Judgers of the Wich of thirty Walms of Salt: But the Amercements and Laws of the Wich shall be such as they were before.

I do therefore grant, and by this present Deed confirm, from me and my Heirs, to all my common Knights and Gentlemen of Cheshire, and their Heirs, all the aforesaid Liberties, to have and to hold of my Barons, and of other their Lords, whosoever they be, as the same Barons and Knights, and other Gentlemen, hold the same of me; These being Witnesses, Hugh, Abbot of St. Werburge of Chester, Philip Orreby, then Judge of Chester, &c.

Prince Edward, Son of King Henry the Third, confirmed the aforesaid Liberties in these words:—

EDWARDUS Illustris Regis Angliae Primogenitus, Omnibus—Salutem. Scia∣tis, quod concessum est, pro nobis & haeredibus nostris, Baronibus, Militibus, liberè Te∣nentibus & aliis, ac toti Communitati Cestershiriae, quòd ipsi in perpetuùm habeant & gau∣deant omnibus Libertatibus & Consuetudinibus, eisdem & Progenitoribus suis dudùm concessis à Domino Ranulpho quondàm Comite Cestriae per Chartam suam, prout in eâdem Chartâ pleniùs continetur. Concessimus autèm eisdem, quòd si aliquis tenens Terram in Comitatu Cestriae de quâcunque Feloniâ convictus fuerit, ubicunquè locorum fuerit, Dominus Feodi Feodum suum habeat & recipiat post Annum & Diem sinè contradictione alicujus: Volumus etiàm, quòd Servitia (quae praedicti haeredes Cestershiriae nobis ad opus & rogatum nostrum extrà Comitatum praedictum fecerunt) in posterùm non trahentur in Consuetudinem. Et ut omnia haec rata & firma in perpetuum remaneant, praesentibus Literis Sigillum nostrum duxi∣mus apponi. Datum Cestriae 27 die Augusti, Anno Regni Domini Regis Patris nostri 49.* 36.8

Which afterwards he confirmed also when he was King, Dated March 30. 28 Ed. 1. as appears by the Exemplifications of all these Charters in Rotulo Recognitionum, 3 Edw. 4.

CHAP. II.

Of the Bishops of Chester.

I Find no mention of a Bishop at Chester before the Norman Conquest; onely we read that Dwina a Scotchman was made Bishop of Mercia by King Oswy, whereof Cheshire was a small Parcel; and that he had his Seat at Lichfield, Anno Christi 656. from which time there remained a Succession of Bishops in that See, until by doom of Canon Law all Bishops were to remove to the greatest Cities in their Diocese. Poly∣chronicon, lib. 1. cap. 52. And thereupon Peter Bishop of Lichfield, Anno Domini 1075. removed his Seat from Lichfield to Chester, and was then commonly stiled Bishop of Chester. But Robert de Limsey, next Successor to Peter, leaving Chester, fixed his Seat at Coventrey, Anno 1095. which was brought back to Lichfield by Roger Clinton in the Reign of Henry the First, but so as his Title was Bishop of Lichfield and Coventrey. From which time downwards, the Bishops here were sometimes stiled of Chester, sometimes of Lichfield, and sometimes of Coventrey, from the Place where they fixed their Resi∣dence, having then three Sees, one at Lichfield, another at Coventrey, and a third at Chester, yet all one and the same Bishoprick.

At last King Henry the Eighth made Chester an entire Episcopal Dignity, Anno Regni sui 33. turning the Monastery of St. VVerburge in Chester, into the Bishop's Pa∣lace: unto which Jurisdiction was allotted Cheshire, Lancashire, Richmondshire, and part of Cumberland, and was appointed to be within the Province of York. See Stat. 33 Hen. 8. cap. 31.

A Catalogue of the Bishops of Chester since 33 Hen. 8. 1541. which Bishoprick was erected upon the dissolution of the Abbeys.

[ 1541] I. JOhn Bird, Doctor of Divinity of the University of Oxford, having been formerly a Fryer of the Order of the Carmelites, was the first Bishop of this new Founda∣tion. He was born in Coventrey, and made Bishop of Bangor, Anno 1539. thence trans∣lated to Chester 1541. 33 Hen. 8. He was preferred for some Sermons Preached before the King against the Pope's Supremacy, Anno Christi 1537. He was deprived of his Bishoprick of Chester by Queen Mary, Anno 1554. because he was Married, and died at Chester, Anno 1556.

[ 1554] II. George Cotes, one of the Prebends of Chester, sometime of Magdalen Colledge in Oxford, and afterwards Master of Baliol Colledge, made Bishop of Chester 1 Mariae 1554. He survived his Consecration not two Years. Some mistake this Bishop's Name, calling him John for George: It plainly appears by the Register Book of the Consi∣story Court at Chester, that his Name was George Cotes.

[ 1556] III. Cutbert Scot, Doctor of Divinity, and Master of Christchurch Colledge in Cam∣bridge, made Bishop of Chester by Queen Mary, 1556. He was after put out by Queen Elizabeth; a froward Person, who being put into the Prison of the Fleet in London, made an escape, and fled to Lovain, where he died.

[ 1561] IV. VVilliam Downeham, Chaplain to Queen Elizabeth before she came to the

Crown, Doctor of Divinity, and sometime of Magdalen Colledge in Oxford, was consecrated Bishop of Chester May 4. 1561. 3 Elizabethae. He died in November 1577. and was buried in the Quire of the Cathedral Church at Chester, having sat Bishop there sixteen years and a half. He had two famous Sons, George, Bishop of London-Derry in Ireland, and John, Batchelour of Divinity, a Learned and painful Writer.

V. William Chaderton, Doctor of Divinity, Fellow of Christs Colledge in Cam∣bridge, and after President of Queens Colledge in Cambridge, [ 1579] and sometime the King's Professor of Divinity in that University, was consecrated Bishop of Chester 9 Novem∣bris, 1579. thence translated to Lincoln 1595. He was Bishop of Chester sixteen years; and had onely one Daughter and Heir, called Jone, the first Wife of Sir Richard Brooke of Norton in Cheshire; but these after parted and lived asunder. This Bishop was a Learned and witty Man, and died in April 1608.

VI. Hugh Bellot, Doctor of Divinity and Bishop of Bangor, brought up in St. John's Colledge in Cambridge, was translated to Chester 1557. 37 Elizabethae. [ 1595] He lived scarce one year after his Translation, and died about Whitsuntide 1596. buried at Wrixham in Denbighshire. His Funeral was solemnized at Chester 22 Junii.

VII. Richard Vaughan, Doctor of Divinity, the Queens Chaplain and Bishop of Bangor, brought up in St. John's Colledge in Cambridge, [ 1597] succeeded Bellot both in the Bishoprick of Bangor and Chester. He was translated to Chester in June 1597. Lee saith he was translated May 16. 1596. and Enstalled November 10. 1597. and continued there six years and more; and was translated hence to London about the end of Decem∣ber 1604. and died March 30. 1607. He was a Man of a prompt and ready Utterance; the beginning of whose Advancement was under the Lord-Keeper Puckering, who de∣signed him to Examine such as sued to him for Benefices in his Gift. So Lee, pag. 45. of the Vale-Royal of England.

VIII. George Lloyd, Doctor of Divinity, Bishop of the Isle of Mann, [ 1604] sometime Fel∣low of Magdalen Colledge in Cambridge, was consecrated Bishop of Chester 14 die Ja∣nuarii 1604. He died the first of August 1615. in the 55. year of his Age, at his Parso∣nage of Thornton, and was buried in the Quire of the Cathedral Church at Chester near to Bishop Downeham; and was Bishop of Chester ten years.

IX. Thomas Moreton, Son of Richard Moreton of York City, Mercer, [ 1616] Doctor of Di∣vinity, brought up in St. John's Colledge in Cambridge, and sometime Dean of Win∣chester, was consecrated Bishop of Chester 7 die Julii 1616. translated hence to Lich∣field and Coventrey 6 Martii 1618. and thence to Durham 1632. He died 22 die Septem∣bris 1659. anno aetatis 95. after he had written many Learned Tractates, and was never Maried. See this Bishop's Life and Death in Daniel Lloyd's Memoires, Printed 1668.

X. John Bridgeman, Son of Thomas Bridgeman of Greenway in Devonshire, [ 1619] Doctor of Divinity, brought up in Cambridge, the King's Chaplain, and Parson of Wiggan in Lancashire, was consecrated Bishop of Chester 1619. He lived till the Parliament pulled down all Bishops in a Puritannical Frenzy of Rebellion, and had Beheaded King Charles the First, and after died at Morton, not far from Oswaldestrey in Shropshire, He Married Elizabeth, Daughter of Doctor Helyar, Canon of Excester, and Arcdeacon of Barstable, and had Issue Sir Orlando Bridgeman, made Lord-Keeper 1667. Dove, Henry, now Dean of Chester, Sir James Bridgeman, and Richard.

XI. Brian Walton, born at Cleaveland in Yorkshire, Doctor of Divinity, [ 1660] brought up in Peterhouse in Cambridge, was consecrated Bishop of Chester 2 die Decembris 1660. upon the Restoration of King Charles the Second. He died November 29. in Vigiliis Sancti

Andreae 1661. anno aetatis 62. buried in the Cathedral of St. Paul at London. He had a principal Hand in setting out the Great Bible of many Languages; and Married Jane, Daughter of Doctor William Fuller, Dean of Durham.

[ 1661] XII. Henry Ferne, Doctor of Divinity, Master of Trinity Colledge in Cambridge, was consecrated Bishop of Chester 9 die Februarii 1661. He died very soon after, and never lived to come to Chester, and was buried at Westminster. He writ clear Resolu∣tions of certain Cases of Conscience, relating to the Differences between the late King and his rebellious Parliament.

[ 1662] XIII. George Hall, one of the Sons of Doctor Joseph Hall Bishop of Excester, was sometime of Excester Colledge in Oxford, and Doctor of Divinity, and consecrated Bishop of Chester, Anno Christi 1662. He was also Parson of Wiggan in Lancashire by the Gift of Sir Orlando Bridgeman, then Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas. This Bishop Married Gartred, Sister to Sir Amos Meredith, now of Ashley in Cheshire. He died at Wig∣gan August 23. 1668. without any Issue of his Body; and Gartrede his Lady also died at Wiggan in March following.

[ 1668] XIV. John Wilkins, Doctor of Divinity, Son of Walter Wilkins, a Goldsmith in the City of Oxford, was first Student of Christchurch in Oxford, and after made Warden of Wadham Colledge in the same University, about the Year of our Lord 1651. He Married Robina, Sister to Oliver Cromwel the late Lord Protector, but hath no Issue as yet. He was made Master of Trinity Colledge in Cambridge about the Year 1659. and after the Restoration of King Charles the Second he was made Dean of Rippon in York∣shire; and was consecrated Bishop of Chester, Anno Domini 1668. He was also Parson of Wiggan by the Gift of Sir Orlando Bridgeman Baronet, now Lord-Keeper of England.

CHAP. III.

A Catalogue of the Deans of Chester.

[ 1541] I. THomas Clerke, who before had been the last Abbot of St. Werburge in Chester, was made the first Dean of Chester after the erection of the new Bishoprick here 1541. 33 Hen. 8.

II. Henry Mann, Doctor of Divinity, afterwards Bishop of the Isle of Mann. He died 1556.

III. William Clyve, Doctor of both Laws.

IV. Roger Walker, Master of Arts.

* 36.9V. John Piers, Doctor of Divinity, made Bishop of Rochester 1576. thence trans∣lated to Salisbury 1578. thence to York 1588. He was sometime Dean of Christchurch in Oxford. Twine. But quaere whether ever Dean of Chester, whereof I doubt.

VI. Richard Longworth, Doctor of Divinity.

VII. Robert Dorsell, Doctor of Divinity, living 1580. 22 Elizabethae.

VIII. Thomas Modesley, Batchelor of Divinity.

IX. John Nuttall, Batchelor of Divinity, was first Prebend, [ 1589] then Sub-Dean of Chester; and afterwards was Enstalled Dean of Chester 1589. 31 Elizabethae. He con∣tinued Dean about 13 years. He was also Parson of Sefton in Lancashire, and of Be∣bington in Cheshire; a Man of great Wealth: Queen Elizabeth tearmed him A Golden Ass. He died suddenly, as he was at Supper at Sefton, Anno Domini 1603. where he was buried.

X. William Barlow, Doctor of Divinity, and Prebend of Westminster, [ 1603] was made Dean of Chester 1 Jacobi 1603. He was made Bishop of Rochester 1605. and thence translated to Lincoln 1508, and died about 1612.

XI. Doctor Parry was Enstalled Dean of Chester, 1 die Augusti 1605. [ 1605]

XII. Thomas Mallory, Batchelor of Divinity, [ 1606] younger Son of Sir William Mallory of Studeley in Yorkshire, Archdeacon of Richmond, and Parson of Mobberley and Davenham in Cheshire, was Enstalled Dean of Chester, Anno Domini 1606. He continued Dean about 38 years; and Married Elizabeth, Daughter of Richard Vaughan Bishop of Che∣ster, and had many Children. He died at the Dean's House in Chester, 3 Aprilis 1644. and was buried in the Quire of the Cathedral Church at Chester. He was Educated in Cambridge.

XIII. Doctor William Nicols, Parson of Chedell in Cheshire, [ 1644] succeeded Dean of Che∣ster 1644. He was of a good Family in the County of Middlesex, and Married Katha∣rine, the Widow of William Tatton of Witthenshaw Esquire, and second Daughter of Sir George Leycester of Toft in Cheshire Knight. He died without Issue at Etchells, Anno Christi 1658. and was buried at Norden Church in Cheshire. He was Educated in Tri∣nity Colledge in Cambridge.

XIV. Doctor Henry Bridgeman, [ 1662] younger Son of John Bridgeman late Bishop of Chester, was sometime of Brasen-Nose Colledge in Oxford, and made Dean of Chester, Anno 1660. He hath beautified and repaired the Dean's House in the Abbey Court at Chester very much; and is also Parson of Bangor in Flintshire, and of Barrow in Che∣shire. He hath onely one Child, called Elizabeth, Married to Captain Thomas Gree∣nough of Lancashire, who was Sheriff of Lancashire, Anno 1668. This Henry Bridgeman was made Bishop of the Isle of Mann, Anno Domini 1671. consecrated at Chester, 1 die Octobris eodem anno.

CHAP. IV.

A Catalogue of the Chamberlains of Chester.

PHilippus Camerarius, in the time of Randle sirnamed Gernouns, Earl of Chester.

Spilem' Camerarius, in the time of the same Randle. Vide suprà pag. 128.

Bertramus de Verdon, Chamberlain in the time of Hugh Cyveliok, and also in the time of Randle Blundevill. This Bertram was Sheriff 31 & 33 Hen. 2. 1187. He lived in the Reigns of Henry the Second, Richard the First, and King John.

* 36.10Ricardus Orreby Camerarius.

* 36.11Willielmus Bruchull Camerarius: Ille fuit Decanus Ecclesiae Sancti Johannis Cestriae. Lib. H. fol. 117. e. John Boooth of Twamlow's Book.

Quae sequuntur ex Recordis (scilicèt inter Recognitiones Scaccarii Cestriae apud Cestriam) propriâ manu collecta sunt.

5 Ed. 1. 1277. Hugh Bruchull.

6 Ed. 1. 1278. Stephanus Chesnut; & 8 Edw. 1.

9, 10, 11 E. 1. William Burstow•• 1281.

12 E. 1. 1284. Robert Hemington.

29 E. 1. 1300. Willelmus Molton.

3 Edw. 2. William Stonehall.

3 Ed. 2. 1309. Paganus Tybotot.

9 Ed. 2. 1315. Walter Fulborne

15 E. 2. 1321. Ricardus de Sancto Edmundo.

18, 19. Ed. 2. 1324. Willielmus Essington Justiciarius.

20 E. 2. 1326. John Paynell; etiàm 1 Edw. 3.

2 Ed. 3. 1328. Thomas Blaston.

3 Ed. 3. 1329. John Stonehall, Parson of Plemston.

4 Ed. 3. 1330. Simon Ruggeley.

5 Ed. 3. 1331. John Paynell.

6, 7, 8 Ed. 3. Simon Ruggely, 1332, 1333, 1334.

Sir John Wendour was Chamberlain when Adam Parker was Sheriff of Cheshire, about 9 Ed. 3.

10 E. 3. 1336. B. Paynell.

12 E. 3. 1338. John Perye; etiàm 14 Edw. 3.

15 E. 3. 1341. John Brunham, Parson of Eccleston.

16 E. 3. 1342. John Perye; etiàm 17 Edw. 3.

18 E. 3. 1344. William Linford.

20 E. 3. 1346. John Brunham Junior. He was Chamberlain to the 41 Edw. 3. but how long af∣ter, I find not precisely.

50 E. 3. 1376. John Woodhouse. He was Chamberlain to the 17 Rich. 2. 1393.

17 R. 2. 1393. Robert Paris, from the 17 Rich. 2. 1393. to the 23 Rich. 2. 1399. about five Years.

23 R. 2. 1399. John Trever Bishop of St. Asaph, made Chamberlain 23 Rich. 2. He conti∣nued to 6 Hen. 4. about five Years.

6 H. 4. 1404. Thomas Barnaby, Chamberlain 6 Hen. 4. He continued to the 14 Hen. 4. eight Years.

14 H. 4. 1412. William Troutback Esquire, made Chamberlain of Chester 14 Hen. 4. He conti∣nued to the 17 Hen. 6. about twenty six Years.

17 H. 6. 1438. John Troutback, made Chamberlain in Reversion after his Father's Death, by Patent Dated the fifteenth day of August, 15 Hen. 6. howbeit he sat not as Chamberlain till 17 Hen. 6. when his Father died: which Year he was also Sheriff of Cheshire. He continued Chamberlain to the 35 Hen. 6. about eigh∣teen Years.

35 H. 6. 1457. Sir Richard Tunstall, part of 35 Hen. 6. He continued the remainder of Henry the Sixth's Reign, about four Years.

1 Ed. 4. 1461. Sir William Stanley, (of Hooton, as I conceive) Chamberlain 1 Edw. 4. to the 10. of Hen. 7. about thirty four Years.

10 H. 7. 1495. Sir Reginald Bray, made Chamberlain the tenth of April, 10 Hen. 7. He conti∣nued to the 15 Hen. 7. about four Years.

15 H. 7. 1499. Sir Richard Pool, made Chamberlain of Cheshire (quamdiù nobis placuerit) 14 Ja∣nuarii, 15 Hen. 7. He had another Patent (durante beneplacito) Dated 3 Aprilis,

19 Hen. 7. Sir Randle Brereton was Vice-chamberlain 19 Hen. 7. & 20. Hen. 7. William Tatton also Vice-Chamberlain, 20 Hen. 7. Pool was Chamberlain to 21 Hen. 7. about six Years.

21 H. 7. 1505. Sir Randle Brereton, made Chamberlain 21 Hen. 7. In the same Year before this Patent was another made of the same Office, unto Sir John Longford Knight. This Sir Randle Brereton of Malpas, was one of the Knights of the Body to Henry the Seventh, 19 Hen. 7. He continued Chamberlain to 23 Hen. 8. about twenty six Years. In the Year 21 Hen. 8. Reciting where before he had given Officium Clerici Scaccarii Cestriae, vulgaritèr nuncupatum Officium Baronis Scaccarii Cestriae Comitatus Palatini Cestriae, Johanni Tatton, & Nicolao Farrington, &c. and that Nicolas Farrington was dead, and John Tatton living. The King gran∣ted the Reversion of the same Office, after the death of John Tatton, to Randle Brereton, per nomen Officii Clerici Scaccarii Cestriae, & vulgaritèr nuncupati Baronis Scaccarii Cestriae. This Randle Brereton Baron of the Exchequer, I take it, was Bastard Brother to the Chamberlain.

23 H. 8. 1331. William Brereton Esqire, made Chamberlain 23 Hen. 8. He continued to 28 Hen. 8. about five Years. He was of the King's Privy Chamber, and Beheaded May 17. 1536. 28 Hen. 8. for matters touching Queen Anne. Stow.

28 H. 8. 1536. Rees Manxell, 28 Hen. 8. He continued to 1 Eliz. about twenty three Years.

1 Eliz. 1559. Edward Stanley Earl of Derby Chamberlain of Chester, 1 Eliz. William Glazier

Vice-Chamberlain eodem anno. Earl Edward, Chamberlain six Years.

7 Eliz. 1565. Robert Dudley Earl of Leycester, 7 Eliz. He continued to 30 Eliz. about twenty three Years. William Glazier, Vice-Chamberlain 17 & 22 Eliz.

30 Eliz. 1588. Henry Stanley Earl of Derby, 30 Eliz. He continued Chamberlain to 35 Eliz. about five Years.

35 Eliz. 1593. Sir Thomas Egerton, after Lord-Keeper, was Chamberlain 35 Eliz. He continued to the first Year of King James; about ten Years.

1 Jacobi 1603. William Stanley Earl of Derby, made Chamberlain of Chester for his Life, October 30. 1603. 1 Jacobi. He makes Henry Townesend Esq his Vice-Chamber∣lain (durante beneplacito) as freely as ever Sir Peter Warburton, one of the Judges of the Common-Pleas, or any other Vice-Chamberlain held the same Office before. Dated 13 Januarii, 1 Jacobi.

After this there was another Patent, joyning James Lord Strange with William his Father, for both their Lives, and to the Survivor.

To Townesend succeeded Sir Thomas Ireland of Beausy in Lancashire, Vice-Chamberlain.

To Ireland, Roger Downs of Wardley in Lancashire.

To Downs, Orlando Bridgeman (Son of John Lord Bishop of Chester) Vice-Chamberlain 1640.

William Earl of Derby died 1642. and James his Son continued Chamberlain, till the Parliament put in their Speakers.

23 C. 1. 1647. Edward Earl of Manchester, Speaker of the House of Lords, and William Lenthall, Speaker of the House of Commons, were made Chamberlains of Chester by the Parliament, 23 Car. 1. 1647. Homfrey Macworth of Shropshire Vice-Chamberlan.

1654. John Glinne, made Chamberlain 1654; Philip Younge of Shropshire his Vice-Chamberlain.

This Glinne purchased Harden Castle from Charles Earl of Derby, about 1654.

12 C. 2. 1660. Charles Earl of Derby, made Chamberlain of Chester by the King, for the Lives of himself and William his Son, 12 Car. 2. 1660. Edward Rigby of Preston in Lancashire, sat Vice-Chamberlain 1662.

CHAP. V.

A Catalogue of the Judges of Chester, collected out of the old Deeds and Charters to the Reign of Edward the First, and from thence downwards, out of the Fines at Chester, and out of the Recogni∣zances in the Exchequer.

Johannes Adams Justiciarius Comitis, Witness to a Deed of William Constable of Cheshire the younger, made to the Abbey of St. Werburge in Chester, of Raby in Wirrall, about the beginning of King Stephen's Reign.

Raufe Manwaring, Judge of Chester towards the end of Henry the Second, and Richard the First.

Philip Orreby, Judge of Chester in the time of Roger Lacy Constable of Cheshire about the tenth Year of King John's Reign, Anno 1209: for Roger Lacy died 1211. 12 Johannis, saith Matthew Paris. He was Judge to 13 Hen. 3. 1228. above twenty Years.

• 14 H. 3. 1230. William Vernon, Judge of Chester 14, 15, & 16 Hen. 3.
• 18 H. 3. 1234. Richard Phitton, 17, 18, 19, 20, & 21 Hen. 3.
• 22 H. 3. 1238. Richard Dracot.
• 25 H. 3. 1241. John Lexington.
• 28 H. 3. 1244. Johannes Extraneus, id est, John Strange, 28 & 29 Hen. 3.
• 30 H. 3. 1246. John Grey.
• 31 H. 3. 1247. Sir Roger de Monte-alto, Steward of Cheshire.
• 32 H. 3. 1248. Henry Torboc, locum tenens Johannis Grey.
• 33 H. 3. 1249. Richard Vernon, locum tenens Johannis Grey.
• 34 H. 3. 1250. Alan de Zouch. 34, 35, 36, & 37 Hen. 3. Walkelinus de Arderne.
• 42 H. 3. 1258. Roger de Monte-alto; etiàm 43 Hen. 3.
• 45 H. 3. 1261. Fulco de Orreby, proved by the original Charter of Maxfield.
• 46 H. 3. 1262. Thomas de Orreby Knight.
• 49 H. 3. 1265. Lucas de Tanai, made Judge by Simon de Montfort.
• 50 H. 3. 1266. James de Audeley, 50, 51, & 52 Hen. 3.
• 53 H. 3. 1269. Thomas Bolton; etiàm 54 Hen. 3.
• 54 H. 3. 1270. Reginald Grey, part of the 54 Hen. 3. as appears by the Charter of Dernhale, 2 die Augusti, 54 Hen. 3.
• Idem Reginaldus, 55 & 56 Hen. 3. Robertus de Huxley ejus locum tenens, Anno 1271.

Sub Edwardo Primo.

• 1 Ed. 1. 1273. Idem Reginaldus de Grey, 1 & 2 Edw. 1.
• 3 Ed. 1. 1275. Guncelinus de Badelesmere, to 10 Edw. 1.
• 10 E. 1. 1282. Reginald Grey, to 28 Edw. 1. Radulphum Hegham sibi associavit, 13 Edw. 1. Ricardus Massy locum tenens in absentiâ Reginaldi, 20 Edw. 1. Idem Ricardus lo∣cum tenens pro Reginaldo, 25 Edw. 1.
• 28 E. 1. 1300 Richard Massy, Judge of Chester.
• 29 E. 1. 1301. William Trussell, to 35 Edw. 1.
• 35 E. 1. 1307. William Ormesby in ultimis Assisis, 35 Edw. 1.

Sub Edwardo Secundo.

• Robertus de Holland, to the 4. of Edward the Second. 1 Ed. 2. 1308.
• Paganus Tibotot; etiàm 5 Edw. 2. 4 Ed. 2. 1311.
• Robert Holland, part of 5. etiàm 6 Edw. 2. 5 Ed. 2. 1312.
• Hugh de Audley, to 12 Edw. 2. 7 Ed. 2. 1314.
• John Sapy. 12 E. 2. 1319.
• Robert Holland; etiàm 14 Edw. 2. 13 E. 2. 1320.
• Oliver Ingham, to 19 Edw. 2. John Hegham his Deputy-Judge, 18 Edw. 2. 15 E. 2. 1322.
• Richard de Eumary, to 2 Edw. 3. 19 E. 2. 1326.

Sub Edwardo Tertio.

• Oliver Ingham, to 5 Edw. 3. 2 E. 3. 1328.
• William Clinton, to 10 Edw. 3. 5 E. 3. 1331.
• Sir Hugh Frenes. 10 E. 3. 1336.
• Henry Ferrers, including part of the 10. to 15 Edw. 3. 11 E. 3. 1337.
• Raufe Stafford. 15 E. 3. 1341.
• Oliver Ingham. 16 E. 3. 1342.
• Henry Ferrars. 17 E. 3. 1343.
• Oliver Ingham. 18 E. 3. 1344.
• Thomas de Ferrars, to 27 Edw. 3. 19 E. 3. 1345.
• Roger Hillary, Judge ad Comitatum die Martis proximè post Festum Assumptionis Beatae Mariae, 27 Edw. 3.
• Bartholomew Bughurst, to 42 Edw. 3. Johannes Delves locum tenens Justiciarii Ce∣striae, 33 Edw. 3. Johannes de la Pool locum tenens, 40 Edw. 3. 27 E. 3. 1353.
• Thomas Felton. 42 E. 3. 1368.
• Bartholomew Burghersth, part of this Year. 43 E. 3. 1369.
• Thomas Abbot of Vale-Royal, part of 43. etiàm 44 Edw. 3. 44 E. 3. 1370.
• Thomas Felton, part of 44. to 50 Edw. 3. 45 E. 3. 1371.
• John de la Pool, sub Fine 50 Edw. 3. etiàm 51 Edw. 3. 50 E. 3. 1376.

Sub Ricardo Secundo.

• Thomas Felton Miles, & Johannes de la Pool; etiàm 2 Rich. 2. 1 Ric. 2. 1377.
• Thomas de Felton. 3 Ric. 2. 1379.
• Thomas Felton, & John de la Pool. 4 Ric. 2. 1380.
• John Holland, made Judge of Chester for his Life. His Patent in the Exchequer is Dated 5 Rich. 2. and he made Thomas Molineux his Lieutenant-Justice, Da∣ted eodem anno. 5 Ric. 2. 1381.
• John Holland continued to 9 Rich. 2.
• Edmund Duke of York, the King's Uncle, made Judge of Chester ad terminum vitae, eo modo quo Johannes Holland habuit, by the King's Patent, Dated 28 Sep∣tembris, 9 Rich. 2. He had another Patent, giving him power to make a Lieu∣tenant, Dated 9 Rich. 2. and he makes Thomas Abbot of Vale-Royal his Lieute∣nant-Justice, with forty Marks Fee yearly, Dated on St. Martin's Eve, 9 Rich. 2. The same Edmund made John Massy of Podington his Lieutenant, 15 Novembris, 9 Rich. 2. 9 Ric. 2. 1386.
• The Duke was Judge to 12 Rich. 2.
• The Patent of Henry Abbot of St. Werburge in Chester, Thomas Daven∣port, John Pigot, and Robert Dutton, giving power to any one, or more,

• to Execute the Place of Judge of Chester pro hâc vice; Dated 11 Maii, 11 Rich 2.
• The like Commission unto Robert Vere Duke of Ireland and Earl of Oxford, Robert Abbot of Cumbermere, and Robert Dutton, pro unâ vice; Dated 8 Juni, 11 Rich. 2.
• 12 R. 2. 1388. Thomas Plan∣tagenet. Thomas Duke of Glocester, to 16 Rich. 2. This Thomas deputes his Cosin Hugh Burnell (quamdiù nobis placuerit) his Lieutenant-Justice, 12 Rich. 2.
• Henry Abbot of St. Werburge in Chester, is made Judge of Chester pro unâ vice, 13 Januarii, 16 Rich. 2.
• 17 R. 2. 1393. Thomas Mow∣bray. Thomas Comes Mareschallus & Nottinghamiae, to 20 Rich. 2. Wil∣liam Bagot locum tenens, 18 Rich. 2.
• Roger Brescy, and Hugh Hulse, made Judges unâ vice, 19 Rich 2. The Com∣mission pro Hugh Hulse unâ aliâ vice, 19 Rich. 2. Also Hugh Holes or Hulse, made Lieutenant-Justice to Thomas Earl of Nottingham, 10 Julii, 20 Rich. 2.
• 20 R. 2. 1396. Gilbertus Talbot, in fine hujus anni.
• 21 R. 2. 1397. William Scroop Earl of Wiltshire, 10 1 Hen. 4.
• John Knightley locum tenens sub Scroop, 22 Rich. 2.

Sub Henrico Quarto.

• 1 H. 4. 1399. Henricus Persey (Son to the Earl of Northumberland,) made Judge of Chester, eo modo quo Willielmus le Scroop habuit, giving him power to make a Lieutenant-Justice, 29 Octobris, 1 Hen. 4.
• John Knightley made his Lieutenant-Justice, 1 Hen. 4.
• Henry Percey was Judge to 4 Hen. 4.
• Roger Horton, and Henry Birtles, Judges pro hâc vice, 3 Januarii, 1 Hen. 4. Sir Hugh Hules, and Roger Horton, made Judges ad iter apud Frodsham pro hâc vice, 13 Aprilis 1 Hen. 4.
• John Pigot, made Judge pro uno Comitatu, 3 Hen. 4. Sir Hugh Hulse made Judge pro aliâ vice, eodem anno 3 Hen. 4.
• 4 H. 4. 1402. Gilbert Talbot's Patent, Dated 4 Hen. 4. and he makes John Knightley his Lieute∣nant-Justice, eodem anno.
• John Knightley, made Judge of Chester pro unâ vice, 4 Hen. 4.
• This Gilbert was made Lord Talbot, 7 Hen. 4. He continued Judge of Chester to 6 Hen. 5.
• Nicolas Fare, made Judge pro uno itinere apud Frodsham, 23 Januarii, 9 Hen. 4.

Sub Henrico Quinto.

• John Pigot, Judge unâ Sessione, 1 Hen. 5.
• James Holt locum tenens for Talbot, 2 Hen. 5.
• 6 H. 5. 1418. James Holt made Judge of Chester, 6 Hen. 5. to 1 Hen. 6.
• Gilbert Lord Talbot, James Holt, Henry Birtles, Peter Massy, made Judges ad unum iter apud medium Wichum, 19 Septembris, 6 Hen. 5.
• Idem Gilbert, James Holt, Robert Mere, and Henry Birtles, ad unum iter apud Max∣field, 21 Septembris, 6 Hen. 5.
• Henry Birtles, Judge pro uno Comitatu, 11 Februarii, 8 Hen. 5.

Sub Henrico Sexto.

• Thomas Holland Duke of Excester, to 6 Hen. 6. 1 H. 6. 1422. 6 H 6. 1427.
• Homfrey Duke of Glocester, to 9 Hen. 6. William Buckley his Lieutenant Justice, 7 & 8 Hen. 6.
• Thomas Duke of Excester. 9 H. 6. 1430. 10 H. 6. 1431.
• Homfrey Duke of Glocester, to 18 Hen. 6.
• Thomas Abbot of Chester, and Henry Birtles, Judges pro uno Comitatu Cestriae, 26 Maii, 4 Hen. 6.
• Sir John Stanley, Sir John Savage, Henry Biitles, John Son of Peter Legh, and Richard Piggot, ad tria Hundreda itineris apud Maxfield Justitiarios constitui∣mus: or to any two, quorum praefatum Henricum unum esse volumus; 22 Sep∣tembris, 5 Hen 6.
• Peter Pool made Judge uno Comitatu Cestriae, hâc vice; 8 Aprilis, 5 Hen. 6. Idem Petrus uno Comitatu Cestriae hâc vice, 29 Aprilis, 5 Hen. 6.
• Thomas Abbot of Chester, and Henry Birtles, uno Comitatu Cestriae, 26 Julii, 7 Hen. 6.
• Richard Bold, and John Bruen de Tarvin, uno Comitatu apud Cestriam, 27 Junii, 8 Hen. 6.
• Thomas Abbot of Chester, William Chauntrell, and Henry Birtles, pro uno Comitatu Cestriae; 20 Decembris, 8 Hen. 6.
• Richard Bold and John Bruen, pro uno Comitatu Cestriae, 16 Januarii, 9 Hen. 6.
• Sir John Stanley, Sir John Savage, Henry Birtles, John Savage jun. John Legh del Ridge, and Richard Piggot, ad tria Hundreda itineris apud Maxfield, or to any two, quorum praefatum Henricum unum esse volumus, 12 Augusti. 9 Hen. 6.
• William de la Pool Earl of Suffolk, made Judge of Chester and Flint, sicut avuncu∣lus noster Humfridus Dux Glocestriae ante à habuit, 9 Februarii, 18 Hen. 6. 18 H. 6. 1439.
• William de la Pool makes Sir Thomas Stanley, William Roerly, and Richard Roules, his Deputies (quamdiu sibi placuerit) 23 Februarii, 18 Hen. 6.
• The Commission of Sir Thomas Stanley, and William Ruckley of Eaton; That whereas William de la Pool was made Judge of Chester for his Life, he now makes them his Lieutenant-Justices, and that they shall receive 40 l. per an. per manus Camerarii. Dated on the Eve of the Annunciation of the blessed Vir∣gin Mary, 19 Hen. 6.
• A Commission to Sir Thomas Stanley, Sir Robert Booth, Sir Lawrence Fitton, Roger de Legh, and Thomas Duncalfe, for Judges, ad tria Hundreda itineris apud Maxfield, or to any two, whereof the said Roger or Thomas Duncalfe to be one. Dated 27 Septembris, 19 Hen. 6.
• William de la Pool was Judge to 22 Hen. 6.
• William de la Pool Comes, & Thomas Stanley Miles. 22 H. 6. 1443. 23 H. 6. 1444. 24 H. 6. 1445.
• ...William de la Pool Comes Suffolciae.
• Willielmus de la Pool Marchio Suffolciae, & Thomas Stanley Miles; they continued to 29 Hen. 6. William Buckley, Justiciarius sub Willielmo de la Pool, 26 Hen. 6.
• Thomas Stanley Miles, solus: He continued to 38 Hen. 6. 29 H. 6. 1450.
• John Nedham, Lieutenant-Justice, 30 Hen. 6. M. num. 17.
• Thomas was made Lord Stanley 35 Hen. 6.
• John Earl of Shrewbury. His Commission for Judge of Chester (quamdiù nobis pla∣cuerit) is Dated 24 Februari, 37 Hen. 6. 38 H. 6. 1459.
• There was a former Commission for John Talbot Viscount Lile, making him Judge of Chester for Life, after the Death of Sir Thomas Stanley, prout idem Thomas habuit. Dated 20 Maii, 30 Hen. 6. which was void upon the new Commission. He was Judge to 1 Ed. 4.

Sub Edwardo Quarto.

• 1 E. 4. 1461. John Nedham.
• 2 E. 4. 1462. Thomas Lord Stanley. He continued to 1 Hen. 7.
• Sir John Nedham his Lieutenant-Justice, 18 Edw. 4.
• John Hawarden his Lieutenant, 1 Rich. 3.

Sub Henrico Septimo.

• 1 H. 7. 1486. Thomas Stanley Earl of Derby, and George Stanley Lord Strange. They continued to 19 Hen. 7.
• John Hawarden locum tenens, 10 Hen. 7.
• 19 H. 7. 1504. Sir Thomas Englefield; to the 32 Hen. 8. Quaere if there were not two Thomas Englefields, Father and Son, who succeeded one another; the Son from 6 Hen. 8.
• George Bromley Lieutenant-Justice, 20 & 21 Hen. 7.
• Thomas Englefield Miles, was Judge of Chester uno Comitatu apud Cestriam, hâc vice tantum: Tenendum in omnibus quae ad Officium pertinent, prout habuit in tempore quo fuit locum tenens Thomae Comitis Derbiae, 20 Augusti, 19 Hen. 7.

Sub Henrico Octavo.

• 32 H, 8. 1540. Nicol•••• Hare Miles, to 37. Hen. 8.
• 37 H. 8. 1545. Sir Robert Townesend, to 3 Mariae.

Sub Maria.

• 4 Mariae, 1556. Sir John Pollard.
• 5 Mar. 1557. George Wood Esquire.

Sub Elizabetha.

• 1 Eliz. 1558. John Throckmorton Esquire, from 6 Mariae to 21 Elizab.
• Edward Hassal his Deputy, 13 Eliz.
• Simon Thelwall his Deputy, 18 Eliz.
• 21 Eliz. 1579. John Throckmorton, and Henry Townesend.
• Simon Thelwall their Deputy eodem anno.
• 22 Eliz. 1580. 31 Eliz. 1589. 42 Eliz. 1600. George Bromley, and Henry Townesend, to 31 Eliz.
• Sir Richard Shuttleworth, and Henry Townesend Esq They continued to 42 Eliz.
• Sir Richard Lewknor, and Henry Townesend. They continued to 14 Jacobi.

Sub Jacobo.

• 14 Jac. 1616. 19 Jac. 1621. 20 Jac. 1622. Sir Thomas Chamberlain, and Sir Henry Townesend. They continued to 19 Jacobi.
• Sir James Whitlok, and Sir Henry Townesend.
• Sir James Whitlok, and Sir Marmaduke Lloyd. They continued to 1 Car. 1.

Sub Carolo Primo.

• Sir Thomas Chamberlain, and Sir Marmaduke Lloyd. 1 Car. 1. 1625.
• Sir John Bridgeman, and Sir Marmaduke Lloyd. They continued to 12 Car. 1. 2 Car. 1. 1626.
• Sir John Bridgeman, and Richard Prythergh Esquire. They continued two Years. 12 C. 1. 1636.
• Sir Thomas Milward of Eaton in Derbishire, and the said Richard Prythergh a Welsh∣man. These continued to 23 Car. 1. 14 C. 1. 1638.
• John Bradshaw, late of Congleton, and Peter Warburton of the Grange nigh Wever∣ham, both Natives of this County, made Judges of Chester by the Parliament, sinè Rege 1647. 23 C. 1. 1647.
• Homfrey Macworth of Shrewsbury, as Deputy to Bradshaw, and Thomas Fell of Lanca∣shire, to 1655. 1649.
• Bradshaw, and Fell, to 1659. 1655. 1659.
• Mr. Ratcliff, Recorder of Chester, deputed by Bradshaw at Easter Assises, 1659. pro hâc vice tantum; for Bradshaw was then sick at London, and died that Year, and Fell died before, in 1658. at his House in Low Furneys in Lancashire.

Sub Carolo Secundo.

• Job Chorleton of Ludford in Herefordshire Esquire (Deputy to Sir Geffrey Palmer Baronet, Attorney-General, and Chief Justice of Chester) and Robert Milward of Stafford Esquire, younger Son of Sir Thomas Milward, late Chief Justice of Chester, sat Judges of Chester, September 16. 1661. after the Restoration of King Charles the Second. 13 C. 2. 1661.
• Sir Job Chorleton Knight, now made Chief Justice of Chester (quamdiù nobis placue∣rit, with Power to make a Deputy if he please) and the said Robert Milward, sat Judges at Chester, July 28. 1662. and so have continued to this pre∣sent 1669. 14 C. 2. 1662.

CHAP. VI.

A Catalogue of the Sheriffs of Cheshire, collected out of old Deeds to the latter end of Edward the Third, and thence downwards out of the Records at Chester, in the Prothonotary's Office, and and also in the Exchequer there, with some Particulars out of old Deeds.

• RAnulphus Vicecomes, Witness to a Deed of the second Randle Earl of Che∣ster, in the Reign of King Stephen, among the Evidences of St. Werburge at Chester, 1644. Vide suprà 128.
• Gilbertus Pipardus. 30 Hen. 2. 31 & 33 H. 2.
• ...Bertramus de Verdon: fuit etiàm Camerarius Cestriae.
• Lidulfus, or Liulfus, Vicecomes, about the Reign of Richard the First, or King John. This Lithulfe was Lord of Goostrey, Twamlow, Croxton, and Crannach.

Sub Henrico Tertio.

• Sir William Thebaud, sub initio Hen. 3. Lib. C. fol. 264. num. 1. & 3.
• Richard Perpoint, tempore Philippi Orreby Justiciarii Cestriae. Lib. C. fol. 152. a.
• Ricardus Filius Lidulfi, tempore Philippi Orreby Justiciarii, as appears by a Deed in possession of Edmund Swetenham of Sommerford in Cheshire, Anno 1664.
• Richard de Sonbach, tempore Philippi Orreby Justiciarii. Lib. C. fol. 225. c.
• 15 H. 3. 1230. 18 H. 3. 1233. Ricardus de Sonbach.
• Ricardus de Wibenbury, tempore Richardi Fitton Justiciarii, & Johannis Scotici Co∣mitis Cestriae.
• 32 H. 3. 1248. Ricardus Berner', vel Bernerd, tempore Johannis Grey Justiciarii. Lib. C. fol. 270. b.
• 36 H. 3. 1252. David de Malpas, tempore Alani le Zouch Justiciarii.
• Joceramus de Hellesby, tempore Thomae de Orreby Justiciarii; sed tempore Philippi de Orreby, saith the Deed of Warford in Vernon's Notes. Quaere.
• 46 H. 3. 1262. 50 H. 3. 1266. 51 H. 3. 1267. Robert Buckley.
• Robert de Huxley.
• Jordanus de Penlesdon, tempore Jacobi Audley Justiciarii.
• Randle of Sidington, tempore Tho. Bolton, 1269. Charta intèr les Fines Cestriae.
• 52 H. 3. 1268. 54 Hen. 3. 56 H. 3. 1272. Sir Thomas Dutton of Dutton, tempore Thomae Bolton Justiciarii.
• Richard Wilbraham; & 55 Hen. 3. 1270. & 1271.
• Hugh de Hatton.

Sub Edwardo Primo.

• Robert de Huxley, tempore Gozelini de Badelesmere. Lib. B. pag. 31. m. about 4 Edw. 1.
• 3 Ed. 1. 1274. Hugh de Hatton.
• James Pool. Lib. B. pag. 32. r. I am uncertain of the time.
• 5 Ed. 1. 1277. 6 Ed. 1. 1278. 7 Ed. 1. 1279. 9 Ed. 1. 1281. 12 E. 1. 1284. Patric de Haselwel, tempore Guncelini de Badelesmere Justiciarii, about 5 Edw. 1.
• Richard de Massy.
• William de Hawarden. Lib. C. fol. 268. num. 36. etiàm 1280.
• William de Spurstowe; & 10 Edw. 1.
• Robert Grosvenour of Hulme in Allostock, 12, 13. 14, & 15 Edw. 1. Etiàm 16 E. 1. Lib. B. pag. 32. n.
• 20 E. 1. 1292. William Praers.
• Richard de Bradwell. G. num. 9. I am uncertain of the time.
• 23 E. 1. 1295. 25 E. 1. 1297. 31 E. 1. 1303. 35 E. 1. 1307. Philip de Egerton; & 24 Edw. 1. F. num. 1.
• William Praers, 25, 27, & 28 Edw. 1. Placita 25 Edw. 1. memb. 2. in dorso.
• Robert Bressy, 31 & 33 Edw. 1.
• Ricardus de Fowleshurst.

Sub Edwardo Secundo.

• 2 Ed. 2. 1308. 3 Ed. 2. 1309. 5 Ed. 2. 1311. Ricardus de Fowleshurst.
• Robert Buckley. Lib. H. pag. 109. g. John Booth's Book of Twamlow.
• Richard Fowleshurst, tempore Pagani Tibotot Justiciarii, 5 Edw. 2. Etiàm 1313. & 1316.
• 13 E. 2. 1319. 14 E. 2. 1320. William de Mobberley.
• Richard de Fowleshurst, 1320, 1321, & 1324. & 1326. 20 Edw. 2.

Sub Edwardo Tertio.

• John de Wrenbury, 2, 3, & 4 Edw. 3. 2 Ed. 3. 1328.
• Robert Praers. 5 Ed. 3. 1330.
• William Praers, 1331. in a Deed of Sir Thomas Manwarings of Baddiley. 6 Ed. 3. 1332.
• David de Egerton, 1333. by another Deed of Sir Thomas Manwarings. 7 Ed. 3. 1333.
• Robert Praers. 8 Ed. 3. 1334.
• Adam Parker. 9 Ed. 3. 1335.
• John de Wrenbury; & 1338. 11 E. 3. 1337.
• Robert de Buckley Jun. 15 E. 3. 1341.
• Randle de Aldington, sivè Olton; etiàm 1344 & 1345. 16 E. 3. 1342.
• Hugh Hough. 20 E. 3. 1346.
• Nicolas de Ruggeley. John Booth's Book, H. pag. 135. K. 21 E. 3. 1347.
• Sir James Audely, made Sheriff for a Year, 25 Junii, 22 Edw. 3. 22 E. 3. 1348.
• William Praers of Baddiley. 23 E. 3. 1349.
• Thomas Danyers, vulgò Daniel; & 27 Edw. 3. 25 E. 3. 1351.
• Thomas de Dutton; etiàm 33 Edw. 3. 30 E. 3. 1356.
• Thomas Young. 34 E. 3. 1360.
• Richard de Whitley, his Patent for Sheriff (quamdiù nobis placuerit) is Dated 35 E. 3. etiàm Vicecomes 38 Edw. 3. 35 E. 3. 1361.
• John Scolehall; his Writ is Dated 41 Edw. 3. 41 E. 3. 1367. He was also Escheator of Che∣shire, 40 Edw. 3.
• Sir Nicolas de Manley. John Booth's Book, Lib. K. pag. 79. b. etiàm 44 Edw. 3. 43 E. 3. 1369. 44 E. 3. 1370.
• Sir Lawrence Dutton of Dutton Knight; his Writ Dated 44 Edw. 3. Also 46 Edw. 3. & 1 Rich. 2. 1 Novembris.

Sub Ricardo Secundo.

• Hugh Venables of Kinderton. His Writ for Sheriff in the Exchequer of Chester (quamdiù nobis placuerit) is Dated 1 Rich. 2. Etiàm 3 Rich. 2. Lib. H. Num. 137. 2 Ric. 2. 1378.
• Nicolas Vernon: ut per Chartam penès Swetenham de Somerford, Anno 1664. 7 Ric. 2. 1383. 9 Ric. 2. 1385.
• Hugh Earl of Stafford. His Writ at Chester Dated 9 Rich. 2. Tenendum dictum Comitatum Cestriae ad duos vel tres annos, & ad faciendum quod ad Officium Vicecomitis pertinet in eodem Comitatu.
• This Earl Hugh deputed Sir Richard Venables of Kinderton to Execute the Place, eodem anno, 9 Rich. 2.
• Sir John Massy of Tatton Knight. 11 R. 2. 1387. 12 R. 2. 1389.
• Sir Robert Grosvenour of Houlme in Allostock. His Writ in the Exchequer at Chester (quamdiù nobis placuerit) is Dated 1 Januarii, 12 Rich. 2. 1388.
• Sir John Massy of Tatton Knight, made Sheriff 18 Octobris, 13 Rich. 2. 1389. 13 R. 2. 1390. 17 R. 2. 1393. 18 R. 2. 1395.
• Sir Robert Legh of Adlington.
• Sir Robert Grosvenour of Houlme. He was made Sheriff again, 31 Octobris, 18 Rich. 2. 1394. He died the Year following, scilicèt 19 Rich. 2.
• John de Olton, as appeared by a Deed of Sir Thomas Manwarings of Baddiley, Anno 1663. 20 R. 2. 1396.
• Sir Robert Leigh of Adlington. 22 R. 2. 1398.

Sub Henrico Quarto.

• 1 H. 4. 1400. 2 H. 4. 1401. 5 H. 4. 1404. John Massy of Podington.
• Henry de Ravenscroft. Vernon's Copy of Aston's Deeds, pag. 56. I.
• John Mainwaring of Over-Pever was made Sheriff 18 Septembris, 4 Hen. 4. and continued 5 & 6 Hen. 4.
• 10 H. 4. 1409. Sir William Brereton of Brereton, 10, 11, & 12 Hen. 4. His Writ is Dated 10 Hen. 4.
• 13 H. 4. 1412. Sir Lawrence Merebury Knight, Lib. C. fol. 117, 118.

Sub Henrico Quinto.

• 3 H, 5. 1415. 10 H. 5. 1422. John Legh del Booth's nigh. Knotsford, to 9 Hen. 5.
• Hugh Dutton of Hatton near Chester, made Sheriff (quamdiù nobis placuerit) 2 Octo∣bris, 9 Hen. 5. 1421.
• Johannes Legh nupèr Vicecomes Cestriae, Ricardus Warburton, Ricardus Filius Roberti de Aston, Ricardus Buckley de Chedell, Rogerus le Bruen, Willielmus Leyce∣cester (id est, de Tabley,) Willielmus Daniel de Daresbury, Thomas Legh del Bag∣giley, Sir William Stanley Knight, John Legh de Legh, John de Carington, William del Holt, and William de Holford, venerunt in Scaccarium—Et fatentur, unum∣quemquè eorum debere Domino Regi 140 l. de Arreragiis Compoti ipsius Johannis Legh nupèr Vicecomitis, &c. 14 Julii, 10 Hen. 5. 1422.
• There was also a new Writ issued out against this John Legh, Dated 6 H. 6. for the great Arrears of his Sheriffship, then unsatisfied.
• I find Hugh Dutton Sheriff also, 3 Hen. 6. Lieger Book of Vale-Royal, fol. 74. a.

Sub Henrico Sexto.

• 3 H. 6. 1424. 5 H. 6. 1426. 6 H. 6. 1428. Hugh Dutton of Hatton.
• ...Richard Warburton.
• Sir Randle Brereton (of Malpas I think,) made Sheriff, quousquè alium indè duximus ordinandum in eodem Officio, 12 Januarii, 6 Hen. 6.
• A Writ is directed to the Executors of Richard Warburton, late Sheriff, to bring in all the Rolls touching his Sheriffship, unto Randle Brereton, Dated 13 Januarii, 6. Hen. 6.
• Randle was Sheriff also 11 & 14 Hen. 6. as I find in the said Records.
• Upon a Writ of Diem clausit extremum of the said Richard Warburton, Dated 6 Hen. 6. there is mention made of his Accounts not given up for his late Sheriffship, since 5 Hen. 6.
• 16 H. 6. 1437. John Troutback Esquire, and part of 17 Hen. 6.
• I find Sir Robert Booth Sheriff, 17 Hen. 6.
• 21 H. 6. 1443. A Patent, requiring the surrender of a former Patent to Robert Booth, and now ma∣king Sir Robert Booth and William his Son (conjunctìm vel divisim) Sheriffs for both their Lives, and to the Survivor, Dated 8 Martii, 21 Hen. 6. 1442.
• Will. del Bothe I find Sheriff 33 Hen. 6.
• This was the first Patent granted of the Sheriffship for Life that I meet with, made to Sir Robert Booth of Dunham-Massy, who Married Dowse, the Coheir of Venables of Bollin. By virtue of which Patent Sir William Booth his Son, sur∣viving, was Sheriff 30 Hen. 6. etiàm 2 Edw. 4. which Sir William died not till 16 Edw. 4. 1476.

Sub Edwardo Quarto.

• William Stanley of Hooton Sen. made Sheriff (quamdiù nobis placuerit) 16 Januarii, 2 Edw. 4. 1462. Idem Willielmus Stanley, one of the King's Carvers, made Sheriff for his Life, 26 Februarii, 5 Edw. 4. He continued Sheriff till 10 Hen. 7. 3 Ed. 4. 1463.

Soon after Edward the Fourth had obtained the Crown, he created a new Sheriff of Cheshire, notwithstanding the Patent for Lives granted to Booth by Hen. 6. This appears by Stanley's first Patent, as followeth:

EDWARDUS, &c. Salutem. Cùm 16 die Decembris 1460. humilis & fidelis Ligeus noster Willielmus Stanley de Hooton Sen. retentus fuerit pro termino vitae cùm Excellentissimo & Praepotentissimo Principe beatae memoriae Ricardo Duce Eboracensi Patre nostro, quem Deus absolvat, facturus fidele & diligens Servitium praefato Patri nostro & nobis ergà omnes terrenas creaturas; pro quibus retentione & Servitio, praefatus Pater noster promisit & concessit, quòd tali tempore quo Officium Vicecomitis nostri Comitatus Palatini Cestriae perveniret, vel pertineret concessioni ipsius Patris nostri, quòd tùnc ipse concederet praefato Willielmo idem Officium,—&c. Habendum pro termino vitae, prout in quibusdam Indenturis sub Sigillo praedicti Patris nostri, quas habet demonstrare: Nos concessimus eidem Willielmo idem Officium Vice∣comitis,—&c. Habendum & occupandum per eundem Willielmum, & per suum Deputatum sufficientem, quamdiù nobis placuerit,—&c. Teste meipso apud Cestriam, 16 die Januarii, Anno Regni nostri Secundo, 1462.

Sub Henrico Septimo.

• John Warburton of Arley Esquire, made Sheriff (quamdiù nobis placuerit) 6 Aprilis, 10 Hen. 7. 1495. 10 H. 7. 1495.
• The Sheriffship of Cheshire, with all its Profits, given to John Warburton, uni Militum pro Corpore Henrici Septimi, durante beneplacito, 4 Aprilis. 19 Hen. 7. 1504. And 1 Maii, 19 Hen. 7. Sir John Warburton with others, enter into a Recognizance of 200 l. That the said Sir John shall pay 30 l. yearly unto Randle Brereton Vice-Chamberlain, so long as he continueth Sheriff.
• The same Sir John is made Sheriff of Cheshire for his Life, with all the Pro∣fits thereof to himself, to be Executed by himself or a Deputy; 19 Julii, 23 Hen. 7. 1508. Raufe Birkenhead was under Sheriff, made 9 Decembris, 21 Hen. 7. Sir John was Sheriff to 15 Hen. 8.

Sub Henrico Octavo.

• 15 H. 8. 1524. Thomas Warburton Gentleman, made Sheriff ratione mortis Johannis Warburton Militis nupèr Vicecomitis, 8 Aprilis, 15 Hen. 8.
• 16 H. 8. 1524. Sir George Holford of Holford, made Sheriff (durante beneplacito) 24 Septembris, 16. Hen. 8.
• 17 H. 8. 1525. Sir William Stanley of Hooton, made Sheriff (durante beneplacito) 20 Februarii, 17 Hen. 8.
• 18 H. 8. 1526. William Venables of Kinderton (he was afterwards Sir William Venables,) made She∣riff (durante beneplacito) 19 Decembris, 18 Hen. 8.
• 19 H. 8. 1527. Sir William Pool of Pool in Wirrall, made Sheriff (durante beneplacito) 30 Novembris, 19 Hen. 8.
• 20 H. 8. 1528. Thomas Fowleshurst of Crew Esquire, made Sheriff (durante beneplacito) 19 Decem∣bris, 20 Hen. 8.
• ...

• 21 H. 8. 1529. John Done of Utkinton Esquire, made Sheriff (durante beneplacito) 19 Novembris, 21 Hen. 8.
• 23 H. 8. 1531. Edward Fitton of Gawesworth Esquire, made Sheriff (durante beneplacito) 24 No∣vembris, 23 Hen. 8.
• 24 H. 8. 1532. 29 H. 8. 1537. George Paulet Esquire, made Sheriff (durante beneplacito) 8 Decembris, 24 Hen. 8.
• Sir Henry Delves of Dodington, made Sheriff (durante beneplacito) 20 Novembris, 29 Hen. 8.
• 32 H. 8. 1540. 33 H. 8. 1541. 35 H. 8. 1543. 36 H. 8. 1544. 37 H. 8. 1545. Edmund Trafford Esquire.
• John Holford Esquire, made Sheriff (durante beneplacito) 10 Decembris, 33 Hen. 8.
• Sir Peter Dutton of Dutton and Hatton both.
• Sir Edward Fitton of Gawesworth.
• Sir Henry Delves of Dodington.

Sub Edwardo Sexto.

• 1550. Edw. Sexti
  • 1 Sir Hugh Cholmeley of Cholmeley.
  • 2 Sir William Brereton of Brereton.
  • 3 Thomas Aston of Aston Esquire.
  • 4 Sir John Savage of Rocksavage.
  • 5 Sir Lawence Smith of Hatherton.
  • 6 Sir William Brereton of Brereton.

Sub Maria Regina.

• Maria Reg.
  • 1 Sir Peter Legh of Lime.
  • 2 Sir Hugh Cholmeley of Cholmley.
  • 3 Richard Wilbraham of Woodhey Esquire.
  • 4 Sir Thomas Venables of Kinderton.
  • 5 Sir Philip Egerton of Egerton.
  • 6 Sir Edward Fitton of Gawesworth.

Sub Elizabetha Regina.

• 1560. Elizabethae Reginae
  • 2 Sir John Savage of Rocksavage.
  • 3 Sir Raufe Egerton of Wrine-Hill.
  • 4 Sir John Warburton of Arley.
  • 5 Richard Brook of Norton Esquire.
  • 6 William Massy Esquire.
  • 7 Sir John Savage of Rocksavage.
  • 8 Sir Hugh Cholmeley of Cholmeley.
  • 9 Lawrence Smith of Hatherton Esquire.
  • 10 Raufe Done of Flaxyardes Esquire.
  • 11 George Calveley of Lea Esquire.
• 1570. Elizabethae Reginae
  • 12 Sir John Savage of Rocksavage.
  • 13 William Booth of Dunham-Massy Esquire.
  • 24 Thomas Stanley of Alderley Esquire.
  • 15 Sir John Savage of Rocksavage.
  • 16 Idem Sir John Savage.
  • 17 Henry Manwaring of Carincham Esquire.
  • 18 Sir Rowland Stanley of Hooton.
  • 19 John Warren of Pointon Esquire.
  • 20 Thomas Brooks of Norton Esquire.
  • ...

• ...
  • 21 Sir John Savage of Rocksavage.
• 1580. Elizabethae Reginae
  • 22 Sir Raufe Egerton of Wrine-Hill.
  • 23 Sir George Calveley of Lea.
  • 24 Sir William Brereton of Brereton.
  • 25 Peter Warburton of Arley Esquire.
  • 26 William Leversage of Wheelok Esquire,
  • 27 Thomas Wilbraham of Woodhey Esquire.
  • 28 Hugh Calveley of Lea Esquire.
  • 29 Randle Davenport of Henbury Esquire.
  • 30 Thomas Legh of Adlington Esquire.
  • 31 Sir Hugh Cholmeley of Cholmeley.
• 1590. Elizabethae Reginae
  • 32 William Brereton of Honford Esquire.
  • 33 Sir John Savage of Rocksavage.
  • 34 Thomas Brooke of Norton Esquire.
  • 35 Thomas Venables of Kinderton Esquire.
  • 36 Peter Warburton of Arley Esquire.
  • 37 Peter Legh of Lime Esquire.
  • 38 John Done of Utkinton Esquire.
  • 39 Sir George Booth of Dunham-Massy.
  • 40 Sir Edward Warren of Pointon.
  • 41 Sir Thomas Holcroft of Vale-Royal.
• 1600. Elizabethae Reginae
  • 42 Sir Thomas Smith of Hatherton.
  • 43 Sir Thomas Aston of Aston.
  • 44 Richard Grosvenour of Eaton-boate Esquire.

Sub Jacobo.

• Jacobi Regis.
  • 1 Sir George Leycester of Toft.
  • 2 Sir William Davenport of Bromhall.
  • 3 Sir Randle Manwaring of Over-Pever.
  • 4 Sir Thomas Vernon of Haslington.
  • 5 Sir John Savage of Rocksavage.
  • 6 Sir Henry Bunbury of Stanney.
  • 7 William Brereton of Ashley Esquire.
• 1610. Jacobi Regis.
  • 8 Geffrey Shakerley of Houlme Esquire.
  • 9 Thomas Dutton of Dutton Esquire.
  • 10 Sir William Brereton of Brereton.
  • 11 Sir Vrian Legh of Adlington.
  • 12 Sir George Calveley of Lea nigh Eaton-boate.
  • 13 Sir Richard Lea of Lea & Dernhale.
  • 14 Sir Richard Wilbraham of Woodhey Baronet.
  • 15 John Davenport of Davenport, Knighted hoc anno.
  • 16 Raufe Calveley of Saughton Esquire.
  • 17 Sir Randle Manwaring of Over-Pever.
• 1620. Jacobi Regis.
  • 18 Sir Robert Cholmeley of Cholmeley Baronet.
  • 19 Thomas Merbury of the Mere nigh Comberbach Esquire.
  • 20 Sir George Booth of Dunham-Massy Baronet.
  • 21 Sir Thomas Smith of Hatherton.
  • 22 Sir Richard Grosvenour of Eaton-boate Baronet.

Sub Carolo Primo.

• Caroli Primi
  • 1 Sir Thomas Brereton of Ousaker.
  • 2 Sir John Done of Utkinton.
  • 3 John Calveley of Saughton Esquire.
  • 4 Sir Edward Stanley of Bickerstaffe in Lancashire Baronet.
  • 5 Thomas Legh of Adlington Esquire.

• 1630. Caroli Primi.
  • 6 Peter Dutton of Hatton Esquire.
  • 7 Thomas Stanley of Nether-Alderley Esquire.
  • 8 Richard Brereton of Ashley Esquire.
  • 9 Sir Edward Fitton of Gawesworth Baronet. Obiit sinè prole.
  • 10 Peter Venables Esquire, Baron of Kinderton.
  • 11 Sir Thomas Aston of Aston Baronet.
  • 12 William Legh of Booths Esquire.
  • 13 Sir Thomas Delves of Dodington Baronet.
  • 14 Thomas Cholmeley of Vale-Royal Esquire.
  • 15 Philip Manwaring of Over-Pever Esquire.
• 1640. Caroli Primi.
  • 16 Sir Thomas Powel of Birket-Abbey Baronet.
  • 17 John Bellot of Morton Esquire.
  • 18 Hugh Calveley of Lea; Knighted hoc anno.
  • 19 Thomas Legh of Adlington Esquire.
  • 20 Richard Grosvenour Esq Son of Sir Richard Grosvenour of Eaton-boate Baronet.
  • Henry Brooks of Norton, by the two Houses of Parliament. Henry Brooks similitèr.
  • 21 Robert Tatton of Witthenshaw Esquire.
  • Henry Brooks of Norton, by the two Houses of Parliament. Henry Brooks similitèr.
  • 22 Henry Brooks of Norton Esquire, by the two Houses, sinè Regè.
  • 23 Idem Henry, continued by the Parliament sinè Rege.
  • 24 Roger Wilbraham of Darford Esquire, by the Parliament sinè Rege.
• 1649. Caroli Primi.
  • Robert Duckenfield of Duckenfield Esquire, by the Committees of State, calling themselves Custodes Libertatis Angliae, after they had Beheaded the King.

Sub Carolo Secundo.

• Caroli Secundi.
  • 1650. Sir Henry Delves of Dodington Baronet, by the Committees of State.
  • 1651. Edmund Jodrill of Yerdesley Esquire, by the Committees of State.
  • 1652. John Crew of Crew Esquire, by the Committees of State.
  • 1653. Peter Dutton of Hatton Esquire, by the Committees of State.
  • 1654. George Warburton of Arley Esquire, by Oliver Protector.
  • 1655. Philip Egerton of Olton Esquire, by the same Oliver.
  • 1656. Idem Philip continued by Oliver.
  • 1657. Thomas Manwaring of Over-Pever Esquire, by Oliver.
  • 1658. John Legh of Booths Esquire, by Oliver.
  • 1659. Idem John continued by Oliver.
  • 1660. 12 Thomas Cholmondeley of Vale-Royal Esquire, by the King now Restored.
  • 1661. 13 Idem Thomas continued by the King.
  • 1662. 14 Thomas Legh of Adlington Esquire.
  • 1663. 15 Sir John Bellot of Morton, made Baronet this Year.
  • 1664. 16 Sir Thomas Wilbraham of Woodhey Baronet.
  • 1665. 17 Sir Thomas Delves of Dodington Baronet.
  • 1666. 18 Sir John Arderne of Harden Knight.
  • 1667. 19 Sir Richard Brook of Norton Baronet.
  • 1668. 20 Roger Wilbraham of Darford Esquire.
  • 1669. 21 Sir Peter Brook of Mere Knight. His Writ is Dated in November 1668.
  • 1670. 22 Roger Wilbraham of Nantwich Esquire.
  • 1671. 23 Edmund Jodrill of Yerdsley Esquire.
  • 1672. 24 William Lawton of Lawton Esquire.

CHAP. VII.

A Catalogue of the Escheators of Cheshire to the Reign of King James.

IN ancient time there were but two Escheators in England, the one on this side of Trent, and the other beyond Trent; at which time they had Sub-Eschea∣tors: But in the Reign of Edward the Second the Offices were divided, and se∣veral Escheators made in every County for Life, &c. and so continued till the Reign of Edward the Third. And afterwards by the Statute of 14 Edw. 3. it was Enacted, that there should be as many Escheators assigned, as when Edward the Third came to the Crown, and that was one in every County, and that no Es∣cheator should tarry in his Office above a year: and by another Statute, to be in Office but once in three years: The Lord-Treasurer nameth him. Cook upon Littleton, fol. 13. b.

But Chester, and other County-Palatines made their own Escheators, long time before the Statute of 14 Edw. 3. and their Priviledges for making Escheators are allowed by the said Statute.

45 E. 3. 1261. Thomas de Orreby, 1261. as appears by the original Deed of the Liberties of Maxfield.

Hugo le Mercer, sub Edw. 1.

10 E. 1. 1282. Adam de Chetwine. Mr. Holms's Book, Lib. B. pag. 124. Ex placitis Cestriae die Martis proximè post Festum Sancti Nicolai, 10 Edw. 1. de custodiâ & maritagio Johannis Filii & haeredis Hugonis de Hatton.

22 E. 1. 1294. Frater Robertus de valle Regali: per Inquisitionem post mortem Hugonis de Dutton, Lib. C. fol. 156. bb.

24 E. 1. 1296. Peter of Newcastle under Lime, as appears by the Writ for the Office of Vrian de Sancto Petro, vulgò Sampier, in the Pleas at Chester proximè post Festum Sancti Augustini Episcopi, 28 Edw. 1.

27 E. 1. 1299. Hugh Bushy, per Inquisitionem concerning Sampier, in Placitis ibidèm in Festo Trans∣lationis Sancti Thomae Apostoli, 27 Edw. 1.

6 Ed. 2. 1312. Matthew de Hulgrave.

Edward de la Mare, also 6 Edw. 2. Mr. Holms's Book B. pag. 114.

1 Ed. 3. 1327. William de Swetenham; ut per Inquisitionem post mortem Hugonis de Dutton, 1 Ed. 3. Lieger Book of Vale-Royal, fol. 46.

2 Ed. 3. 1328. 5 Ed. 3. 1331. 6 Ed. 3. 1332. John de Wetenhale. Mr. Holms's Book E. fol. 256.

Thomas Daniers; ut per Inquisitionem penès me. V. num. 11.

Hamo Massy de Tatton. O. num. 1. He was younger Son to Robert Massy of Tatton in Cheshire, and Married Katharine, Daughter and Heir of Alan Rixton of Rixton in Lancashire, 6 Edw. 3. 1332. from whom the Massyes of Rixton. He was af∣terwards Sir Hamon Massy Knight, 1347. Lib. C. fol. 105. num. 42. & fol. 292. num. 1.

7 Ed. 3. 1333. Peter Arderne, made Escheator 7 Edw. 3. Mr. Holms's Book E, fol. 77. Quam∣diù benè se gesserit. This Peter had Lands in Over-Alderley.

19 E. 3. 1345. Hugh de Hopwas, as appears by an Inquisition Ex Officio, for the Bondary of Stubs supèr Rudheath, quae tenetur de Fratribus Sancti Johannis Hierosolymitani; in pos∣session of Sir Thomas Delves of Dodington Baronet, Anno 1664. He was also Escheator 23 & 26 Edw. 3.

Quae sequuntur, ex Recordis (scilicèt intèr Recognitiones Scaccarii Cestriae apùd Cestriam) propriâ manu collecta sunt.

35 E. 3. 1361. Adam de Kingsley; & 36 Edw. 3.

39 E. 3. 1365. John Scolehall, made Escheator (quamdiù nobis placuerit) 26 Martii, 39 Edw. 3. He was also Sheriff of Cheshire, 42 Edw. 3. I find him also Escheator, 2 Ri. 2. & 6 & 7 Rich. 2.

8 Ric. 2. 1384. Adam Kingsley.

10 R. 2. 1386. John Ewlowe.

11, 12, 13 R. 2. Adam Kingsley.

14 R. 2. 1390. John Leech, part of 13 & 14 Rich. 2.

15 R. 2. 1391. Thomas Masterson of Nantwich, part of 14, 15, & 16 Rich. 2.

16 R. 2. 1392. Adam de Kingsley, part of 16, & 19 & 20 Rich 2.

21 R. 2. 1398. Hugh Leigh (id est, of High-Legh of the East-Hall) made Escheator quamdiù nobis placuerit, 23 Octobris, 21 Rich. 2. The Original is among the Evidences of Mr. Legh of High-Legh of the West-hall, Anno 1664.

22 R. 2. 1399. Adam de Kingsley.

1 H. 4. 1400. Richard Manley; & 3 Hen. 4. & 18 Augusti, 4 Hen. 4.

4 H. 4. 1403. Matthew Mere, made Escheator 4 Hen. 4.

7 H. 4. 1405. Richard Manley, made Escheator 7 Hen. 4. I find him also Escheator 10 Hen. 4.

2 H. 5. 1414. Henry de Ravenscroft, 2 & 3 Hen. 5. & 6 Hen. 5.

9 H. 5. 1421. Richard Done of Crowton, made Escheator 9 Hen. 5.

10 H. 5. 1422. John Wetenhale of Nantwich, made Escheator, quamdiù nobis placuerit, 26 Aprilis, 10 Hen. 5. He continued to 7 Hen. 6. and part of 7 Hen. 6.

7 H. 6. 1428. John Bruen, made Escheator December 8. 7 Hen. 6. He continued to 12 Hen. 6. and part of 12 Hen. 6. This was Bruen of Stapleford.

12 H. 6. 1434. John Legh del Ridge, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, & 18 Hen. 6. & 31 Hen. 6.

38 H. 6. 1459. Raufe Legh; ut per Inquisitionem post mortem Domini Thomae Dutton de Dutton Militis, 38 H. 6.

Robert Fowelshurst, made Escheator 4 Julii, 38 Hen. 6. 1460.

1 Ed. 4. 1461. William Venables de Copenhale. made Escheator 20 Julii, 1 Edw. 4.

17 E. 4. 1477. Thomas de Walton, 17 Edw. 4. & 21 Edw. 4.

10 H. 7. 1495. Roger Manwaring Gentleman, made Escheator, quamdiù nobis placuerit, 16 Julii, 10 H. 7. Idem Roger 2 Julii, 17 H. 7. Idem Roger made Escheator durante beneplacito, and to have the whole Profits thereof. Dated 4 Aprilis, 19 Hen. 7. He was also Escheator 24 Hen. 7. and was a younger Son to Manwaring of Carincham.

1 H. 8. 1509. Sir Raufe Egerton, and Roger Manwaring, made Escheators of Cheshire for their Lives, and to the Survivor of them, 7 Julii, 1 Hen. 8. It appears Manwaring was dead 6 Hen. 8. and the said Sir Raufe Egerton (one of the Gentlemen-Ushers of the King's Chamber) was made Ranger of the King's Forest of De∣lamere in Cheshire, during his Life, 6 Hen. 8.

This Sir Raufe (as I take it) was younger Son to Egerton of Egerton, and the first Egerton of Ridley. He died 1528. The Egertons of Ridley in short time attained to a great Estate, but is all now sold and gone, except some small part in Yorkshire, called Allerton, cùm pertinentiis.

Vrian Brereton, one of the Grooms of the Privy-Chamber, made Escheator, and Ranger of Delamere Forrest, pro termino vitae, after the Death of Sir Raufe Egerton, with 10 l. Fee per annum. Dated 1 Aprilis, 18 Hen. 8. He was after Brereton of Honford in Right of his Wife, and younger Son of Brereton of Malpas.

32 H. 8. 1540. Vrian Brereton Armiger, unus Gromettorum Privatae Camerae Regis, Escheator 32 & 35 Hen. 8. Et Vrianus Brereton Senior Miles, Escheator 2 Edw. 6. ut patet per inquisitionem captam apud Northwich, 18 Junii, 2 Edw. 6. post mortem Johannis Carington de Carington Armigeri. Sir Vrian died 19 Eliz. 1577.

19 Eliz. 1577. John Cotton Esquire.

22 Eliz. 1580. John Nutthall, made Escheator pro termino vitae, 17 Junii, 22 Elizabethae; etiàm 25 Eliz.

This was Nutthall of Catenhall nigh Dutton. Obiit 28 Eliz.

33 Eliz. 1590. Sir Hugh Cholmeley of Cholmeley the younger. He died 43 Eliz.

13 Jac. 1615. Henry Manwaring of Carincham Esquire.

CHAP. VIII.

A Catalogue of the Recorders of the City of Chester, since the Charter of 21 Hen. 7. 1506. when this City was made a distinct County of it self, to have a Mayor, Recorder, and twenty four Aldermen, with two Sheriffs, and forty of the Common-Council.

1506. RAufe Birkenhead is said to be the first Recorder.

1518. 10 H. 8. Richard Sneyd Esquire, was Recorder 1518, 10 Hen. 8. from whom the Sneyds of Bradwell and Keele in Staffordshire are descended.

1535. 27 H. 8. Raufe Wrine, Son of William Wrine, succeeded Recorder 1535.

1563 & 1574. William Gerard Esquire: I find him mentioned Recorder 5 & 16 Eliz. He was made Chancellor of Ireland, and died in May 1580. buried at the Cathedral of St. Werburge in Chester. Lib D. pag. 174. n.

1575. 17 Eliz. Richard Birkenhead Esquire, chosen Recorder of Chester 13 Martii, 17 Eliz. He surrendred this Office to Thomas Lawton 1601. in regard of his old Age, not able to Execute the same.

This Richard was base Son of John Birkenhead of Crowton, ut dicitur, and pur∣chased Manley at the side of Delamere Forest; and had to Wife Margaret, Daughter of Piers Leycester of Tabley Esquire, and had Issue

1601. 44 Eliz. Thomas Lawton Esquire, chosen Recorder of Chester, 12 Januarii, 44 Eliz. 1601.

1606. Thomas Gamull, a Citizen born, Son to Alderman Edmund Gamull of Chester, cho∣sen Recorder 7 Februarii, 3 Jacobi 1605. He died August 11. 1613.

1613. Edward Whitby, Son of Robert Whitby, then Mayor of Chester, was chosen Recor∣der 13 Augusti, 1613, 11 Jacobi. He died April 8. 1639. at the Bache.

1639. Robert Brierwood, a Citizen born, was chosen Recorder of Chester April 9. 15 Car. 1. 1639. He was Son of John Brierwood, Sheriff of this City: which John was Son of Robert Brierwood Wet-Glover, thrice Mayor of Chester. John had a younger Brother called Edward Brierwood, the famous Schollar of Brasen-Nose Colledge in Oxford, and afterwards Professor of Astronomy at Gresham Col∣ledge in London, who writ many Learned Books; scilicèt, a Treatise of the Sabbath, 1631. The Enquiry of Languages, Printed 1635. De Nummis, Printed 1614. besides his Logical Notes, and Tractate De Oculo, published by Sixsmith of Brasen-Nose.

Robert the Recorder had two Wives; the first was Anne, Daughter of Sir Randle Manwaring of Over-Pever the younger; the second was Katharine, Daughter of Sir Richard Lea of Lea and Dernhall in Cheshire; and had several Children by each of them. He was Sergeant at Law, Judge of three Shires in Wales, and was made Judge of the Common-Pleas, and Knighted at Oxford 1643. He died the eighth of September 1654. at Chester, aged 67 years, and buried in St. Maries Church at Chester.

1646. John Ratcliffe, a Citizen born, Son of Alderman John Ratcliffe, was chosen Re∣corder 17 Novembris, 1646. in the time of the late Rebellion, after the Sur∣render of Chester to the Parliament. He was put out, because he refused the Negative Oath; and Richard Haworth of Manchester Lawyer, was chosen Re∣corder 1651. and because Haworth would not reside constantly at Chester, he surrendred it to John Ratcliffe aforesaid; who was again chosen Recorder 1656. but was put out by the Commissioners for Regulating the Corporations of the City and County-Palatine of Chester, Anno Domini 1662. because he refused to take the Oath enjoyned by Act of Parliament in that behalf.

1662. Richard Lieving of Parridge in Derbyshire Esquire, was chosen Recorder by the Commissioners aforesaid, 1662, He died in the beginning of April 1667.

1667. William Williams, Son of Doctor Williams of Anglesey, was elected Recorder with the King's Approbation, 1667. a very acute young Gentleman.

Finis Partis Tertiae.

THE PREFACE TO THE Fourth Part.

HUndreds and Tythings were appointed by King Alfred, who be∣gan his Reign over England about the Year of Christ 872. Malmesbury de Gestis Regum, lib. 2. cap. 4. These were ordained for the better suppressing of Robberies: for every free born Man was now to be ranked, or put into some Hundred and Ty∣thing; and if there were any Person of such dissolute Carri∣age, that he could find no Pledge or Surety in the Hundred and Tything for his good Demeanour, he was to be Impriso∣ned, as a Man unworthy to be at liberty. And if any Person guilty of a Robbery (whether before such Pledge found, or after) should flie and make an escape, all the Inhabitants of the Hundred and Tything were to be Amerced by the King: So that by this means there was such a Calm of Peace in the Nation in a short space, that if any Man had left Bracelets of Gold, or Bags of Money in the High-way, there was none durst take them away, as both Malmesbury and Ingulphus do inform us.

Now these Freeholders, or free-born Men, were cast into several Companies, by ten in each Company, whence in the Western parts of the Realm they were called Tythingmen. And every of these Pledges or Sureties were yearly presented and brought forth by their chief Pledge, at a general Assembly for that purpose, which we yet in remembrance thereof do call The View of the Frank Pledge, or The Leet-Court: and as ten times ten do make a hundred, so because it was then also appointed that ten of these Companies should at certain times meet together for Matters of greater weight; therefore that Assembly or Court was called The Hundred-Court. Lamberd in his Book of the Duties of Constables, Borsholders, and Tythingmen, pag. 7, 8, 9. as it is commonly added at the end of his Eirenarcha.

In this County of Cheshire we had formerly twelve Hundreds, as we find them in the Record of Dooms-day Book, viz.

• Attiscros Hundred.
• Erestan Hundred.
• Chester Hundred.
• Wilaweston Hundred.
• Dudestan Hundred.
• Warmundestreau Hundred.
• Riseton Hundred.
• Roelay Hundrrd.
• Mildestric Hundred.
• Hamstan Hundred.
• Bucklow Hundred.
• Tunendon Hundred.

But these Hundreds were reduced by a later Division into seven Hundreds, as at this day they stand divided and called, to wit,

• Bucklow Hundred.
• Maxfield Hundred.
• Northwich Hundred.
• Nantwich Hundred.
• Broxton Hundred.
• Edesbery Hundred.
• Wirrhall Hundred.

Which new Division I conjecture doth not exceed the Reign of King Edward the Third.

And as there must needs be an enlargement of the number of the Towns in each Hundred of the new Division above the old, because the whole is contracted to a lesser number of Hundreds, so they have all begot new Names, except this of Bucklow Hun∣dred, which both retains its old Name, and hath now the Towns of the other old Hundred of Tunendon annexed to it.

For the proportion of the old Hundreds to the new, it is to be observed, that the Towns comprehended in the old Hundreds of Attiscros and Erestan, were by the Sta∣tute of 33 Hen. 8. cap. 13. taken from Cheshire, and annexed to Flintshire, onely Dodle∣ston yet remains to Cheshire, belonging to Broxton Hundred. And for Chester Hundred, the City of Chester was made a distinct County of it self (except the Castle onely, cùm pertinentiis) by the King's Charter, Dated 6 Aprilis, 21 Hen. 7. 1506.

• Mildest-vich Hundred, is now, called Northwich Hundred.
• Wilaweston Hundred, now called Wirrhall Hundred.
• Dudestan Hundred, now called Broxton Hundred.
• Warmundestreu Hundred, now called Nantwich Hundred.
• Hamstan Hundred, now called Maxfield Hundred.
• Riseton and Roelay Hundreds, now comprehended in Edesbery Hundred.
• Bucklow and Tunendon Hundreds, now comprehended in Bucklow Hundred.

Many more Towns are now in Cheshire than we find in Dooms-day Book; for many were then waste, which have been since improved and inhabited.

The Hundred of Bucklow now comprehendeth these Townships following, which I have placed Alphabetically, for the more ready finding of any in particular, and con∣taineth two Divisions; the East Division comprehending the old Bucklow Hundred, and the West Division comprehending the old Tunendon Hundred; either Division ha∣ving a Head Constable yearly elected respectively.

Such as are marked thus [E.] belong to the East Division; such as remain un∣marked, belong to the West Division; onely observe, that Cogshull, now belonging to the East Division, was anciently part of the old Hundred of Tunendon; and Limme, now belonging to the West Division, was anciently within the old Bucklow Hundred.

		The ancient Mize.
		l.	s.	d.
	1. Acton Grange, Dominus pro quarta	00	13	04
E.	2. Agden, Dominus pro quarta	00	03	10
E.	3. Altrincham, Dominus pro quarta	00	10	09
	4. Anderton, Dominus pro quarta	00	10	08
	5. Appleton & Hull, Dominus pro quarta	01	00	06
E.	6. Ashley, Dominus pro quarta	01	07	04
E.	7. Ashton super Mersey, Dominus pro tertia	00	14	00
	8. Aston juxta Sutton, Dominus pro quarta	00	10	00
	9. Aston Grange, Dominus pro quarta	00	08	00
	10. Aston juxta Great Budworth, Dominus pro quarta	00	16	00

E.	11. Baggiley, Dominus pro tertia	00	16	00
	12. Barnton, Dominus pro quinta	00	09	00
	13. Barterton, Dominus pro quarta	00	05	00
E.	14. Bexton, Dominus pro duabus partibus	00	02	09
E.	15. Bollington, Dominus pro quarta	00	06	00
E.	16. Bowdon, Dominus pro quinta	00	10	00
	17. Budworth, that is, Great Budworth, Dominus pro tertia	00	10	08
E.	18. Carington, Dominus pro quarta	00	10	09
	19. Clifton, Dominus pro tertia	00	08	00
E.	20. Cogshull, Dominus pro sexta	00	08	00* 36.12
	21. Comberbach, Dominus pro quarta	00	10	00
	22. Daresbury, Dominus pro quarta	00	07	00
E.	23. Dunham-Massy, Dominus pro quarta	00	08	00
	24. Dutton, Dominus pro quarta	00	16	08
	25. Gropenhall, Dominus pro quarta	00	14	00
E.	26. Hale, Dominus pro quarta	01	12	10
	27. Halton, Dominus pro sexta	01	02	06
	28. Hatton, Dominus pro quarta	00	14	00
	Hull, vids Appleton.
	29. Kekwike, Dominus pro quinta	00	05	00
E.	30. Knotsford Superior, Dominus pro quarta	00	06	08
E.	31. Knotsford Inferior, Dominus pro quarta	00	13	04
	32. Lachford, Dominus pro quarta
	33. Legh juxta Barterton, vulgo Little-Legh, Dominus pro quarta	00	15	04
E.	34. Legh, vulgo High-Legh, Dominus pro quarta	01	13	00
	35. Limme, Dominus pro tertia	01	16	00* 36.13
	36. Merebury, Dominus pro dimidio	00	04	00
E.	37. Marston, Dominus pro tertia	00	10	00
E.	38. Marthall, cum Little Werford, Dominus pro tertia	00	13	04
E.	39. Mere, Dominus pro quarta	00	19	00
	40. Middleton Grange, Dominus pro duabus partibus	00	06	00
E.	41. Millington, Dominus pro quarta	00	09	04
E.	42. Mobberley, Dominus pro quarta	01	18	00
	43. More, Dominus pro quinta	00	12	00
	44. Newton juxta Daresbury, Dominus pro sexta	00	10	00
	45. Norton, Dominus pro duabus partibus	00	12	00
E.	46. Owlarton, Dominus pro quarta	00	08	00
	47. Partington, Dominus pro quarta	00	06	08
E.	48. Pever Superior, Dominus pro quarta	01	00	00
E.	49. Pever, vulgo Little Pever, Dominus pro quarta	00	09	04
E.	50. Picmere, Dominus pro dimidio	00	12	02
E.	51. Plumley, Dominus pro quarta	00	13	04
	52. Preston, Dominus pro quarta	00	13	00
	53. Runcorne Superior, Dominus pro sexta	01	01	04
	54. Runcorne Inferior, Dominus pro sexta	01	01	04
E.	55. Rosthorne, Dominus pro quarta	00	14	00
E.	56. Sale, Dominus pro quarta	00	10	09
	57. Stokham, Dominus pro quarta	00	08	00
	58. Stretton, Dominus pro quarta	00	10	00
	59. Sutton nigh Frodsham, Dominus pro sexta	00	08	00
E.	60. Tabley Superior, Dominus pro quarta	00	13	04
E.	61. Tabley Inferior, Dominus pro quinta	00	12	00
E.	62. Tatton, Dominus pro tertia	00	11	08
	63. Thelwall, Dominus pro quarta	00	16	00
E.	64. Timperley, Dominus pro sexta	00	10	09

E.	65. Toft, Dominus pro tertia	00	08	00
	66. Walton Superior, Dominus pro quarta	00	06	00
	67. Walton Inferior, Dominus pro quarta	00	10	00
E.	68. Warburton, Dominus pro quarta	00	12	00
	69. Weston, Dominus pro quarta	00	11	01
	70. Whitley Superior, Dominus pro quinta	01	18	00
	71. Whitley Inferior, Dominus pro quarta	00	16	00
E.	72. Winsham, Dominus pro quarta	00	12	02
	Werford Parva. See Marthall supra
	Sum	46	10	02

The Abbot of Salop for Fishing in Thelwall, stood Charged with 3 s. the Mize in the ancient Mize-Book, but this is now lost, and is not known where to be Charged.

The Method I propose to my self in this Fourth Part, is to take the particular Townships of this Hundred of Bucklow in order according to the Alphabet, to the end I might spare the labor of an Index or Table; and so observe in them particularly what I can discover from old Deeds or Records, concerning the Owners of those Places since the Norman Conquest; adding also the Pedegrees of many of the better sort of the Gentry in this Hundred (so many as my leisure will permit me to go through, and for which I have seen good Deeds and Records proving the same) placed at the end of such Towns where such Families have been respectively Seated in ancient time.

And as Speed calls our County-Palatine of Chester, The Seedplot of Gentility, and Learned Cambden in his Britannia stiles it, The most surpassing Nursery of ancient Gentry above any other County in England, so I may not unfitly call this Hundred of Bucklow, The prime Border of that Nursery, as having a more numerous company of Gentry therein, proportionably to its compass, above any other Hundred in our County.

Concerning the Churches and Chappels of this Hundred, I shall add what I can gather concerning them in those particular Towns where I find them situated; and my Authorities, as well for these as all the rest of this Fourth Part of my Book, shall either be put down verbatim (where it is most necessary, and of most concern) or else be referred unto, and in whose Hands the Original remaineth.

Those Books quoted and referred unto in this Treatise following, stiled Lib. A. or Liber B. or Liber C. are Books of Collections of Deeds taken by me from the Ori∣ginals, some more largely, some extracted in brief.

In the mean time I shall here give you a Catalogue of all the Parish Churches, Pa∣rochial Chappels, Chappels of Ease, and Domestick Chappels, as well within every Hundred of this County, as in the City of Chester. The Letter R. denotes a Rectory or Parsonage; the Letter V. stands for Vicarage.

1669. Bucklow Hundred.

Parish Churches.

• 1. GReat Budworth
• 2. Runcorne
• 3. Gropenhall
• 4. Limme
• 5. Warburton
• 6. Ashton super Mersey
• 7. Bowdon
• 8. Rosthorne
• 9. Mobberley

The present Patrons.

• V. Christchurch Colledge in Oxford.
• V. Christchurch Colledge in Oxford.
• R. Byrom of Byrom in Lancashire.
• R. Legh of High Legh de Westhall of one Mo.
• R. Warburton of Arley of the other Moiety.
• R. Warburton of Arley.
• R. Brereton of Honford.
• V. Bishop of Chester.
• V. Venables Baron of Kinderton.
• R. Mallory of Mobberley.

Parochial Chappels.

• 1. Daresbury, within Runcorn Parish.
• 2. Aston Chappel nigh Sutton, Consecrated 1637, within Runcorn Parish.
• 3. Nether Knotsford Chappel, within Rosthorn Parish.
• 4. Over-Pever Chappel, within Rosthorn Parish.

Chappels of Ease.

• 1. Halton Chappel, in Runcorn Parish.
• 2. Thelwall Chappel, infrà Daresbury Parish, both within Runcorn.
• 3. Poosey Chappel, now in decay, within Runcorn Parish.
• 4. Nether Whitley Chappel, in Great Budworth Parish.
• 5. Stretton Chappel, in Great Budworth Parish.
• 6. Little Legh Chappel, in Great Budworth Parish.
• 7. High Legh Chappel, in Rosthorn Parish.
• 8. Over-Tabley Chappel in the Street, in Rosthorn Parish.
• 9. Nether Knotsford Chappel in the Town, in Rosthorn Parish.
• 10. Ringey Chappel, in Bowdon Parish.

Domestick Chappels.

• 1. At the Mannor Hall at Dutton, very ancient.
• 2. At Arley in Aston, not so ancient as Dutton by much.
• 3. At Dunham-Massy Hall, made 1655. when Sir George Booth, after Lord Delamere, converted two Ground-Rooms into a Chappel.
• 4. At Ashley Hall, lately built by Thomas Brereton of Ashley, about 1653.
• 5. At Tost, but now converted to other Uses.

1669. Maxfield Hundred.

Parish Churches.

• 1. NEther Alderley
• 2. Prestbury
• 3. Gowesworth
• 4. Taxall
• 5. Mottram Longdendale.
• 6. Stopport
• 7. Chedell
• 8. Norden
• 9. Winslow

The present Patrons.

• R. Stanley of Alderley.
• V. Legh of Adlington.
• R. The Lord of Gowesworth.
• R. Downs of Offerton.
• R. Bishop of Chester.
• R. Warren of Pointon.
• R. Buckley of Chedell.
• R. Dean of Chester.
• R. Trafford of Trafford in Lancashire.

Nether Alderley Parish and Gowesworth, were both formerly taken out of Prestbury.* 36.14

Parochial Chappels.

• 1. Maxfield, within Prestbury Parish.
• 2. Marton, within Prestbury Parish.
• 3. Bosley, within Prestbury Parish.
• 4. Dishley, within Stopport Parish.

Chappels of Ease.

• 1. Duckenfield Chappel, in Stopport Parish.
• 2. Marple Chappel, in Stopport Parish.
• 3. Norbery Chappel, in Stopport Parish.
• 4. Chad-kirke, in Stopport Parish.
• 5. Adlington Chappel, in Prestbury Parish.
• 6. Newton Chappel, in Prestbury Parish.
• 7. Siddington Chappel, in Prestbury Parish.
• 8. Chelford Chappel, in Prestbury Parish.
• 9. Pointon Chappel, in Prestbury Parish.
• 10. Pot Chappel, in Maxfield Chappelry.
• 11. Winkle Chappel, erected tempore Car. 1. in Maxfield Chappelry within Prestbury Parish.
• 12. Woodhead Chappel, in Mottram-Longdendale Parish.

Domestick Chappels.

• 1. At Bromhale Hall.
• 2. At Wittenshawe.
• 3. At Honford Hall.
• 4. At Lime Hall.
• 5. At Sutton Hall.

1669. Northwich Hundred.

Parish Churches.

• 1. DAneham
• 2. Middlewich
• 3. Sanbach
• 4. Lawton
• 5. Warmincham
• 6. Swetenham
• 7. Astberie
• 8. Brereton

The present Patrons.

• R. Savage Earl Rivers.
• V. Lord Brereton of Brereton.
• V. The Lord of Wheeloke.
• R. Lawton of Lawton.
• R. Crew of Crew.
• R. Davenport of Davenport.
• R. Huchenson.
• R. Lord Brereton of Brereton.

Domestick Chappels.

• 1. Witton Chappel, within Great Budworth Parish.
• 2. Nether-Pever Chappel, also within Great Budworth.
• 3. Holms Chappel, within Sanbach Parish.
• 4. Goostrey Chappel, within Sanbach Parish.

Chappels of Ease.

• 1. Congleton, in Astbery Parish.

Brereton Church was formerly a Chappel within Astberie Parish, built about the Reign of Richard the First, and Dedicated to St. Oswald, whose Wakes or Feast of Dedication, is on the fifth day of August yearly, and was made a Parish Church, and endowed with the Tythes of Brereton cùm Smethwick, about the Reign of Hen. 8.

The Original of this following Deed is now in the possession of Smethwick of Smethwick.

EGo Radulfus de Brereton dedi—Deo, & Sancto oswaldo, & Capellae de Brereton, pro Salute animae meae—in perpetuam Eleemosynam, totam Terram de Smethwick—Ità quòd Ormus Filius Turgitani de Smethwick nepos meus, & Haeredes, eam in Feodo habebunt: Reddendo annuatìm memoratae Capellae de Brereton duodecim Denarios ad Festum Sancti Os∣waldi pro omni Servitio.—Testibus Radulfo Capellano, Petro Chanuto, Waltero Parsonâ de Rodeston, Willielmo de Brereton, Osberto de Erclid,—&c.

1669. Nantwich Hundred.

Parish Churches.

• 1. WIbenbury
• 2. Aulym
• 3. Bartumley
• 4. Coppenhale
• 5. Baddiley
• 6. Aghton
• 7. Church-minshul
• 8. Wistarston

The present Patrons.

• V. Bishop of Lichfield.
• V. Smith of Hatherton.
• R. Crew of Crew.
• R. Bishop of Lichfield.
• R. Manwaring of Baddiley.
• V. Wilbraham of Woodhey.
• V. Cholmeley of Vale-Royal.
• R. Walthall of Wistarston, and Delves of Do∣dington, alternis vicibus.

Parochial Chappels.

• 1. Merebury, within Whitchurch Parish.
• 2. Wrenbury, within Aghton Parish.
• 3. Nantwich, within Aghton Parish.

Chappels of Ease.

• 1. Burley-Dam Chappel in Dodcot cùm Wilkesley, in Aulym Parish.
• 2. Haslington Chappel, in Bartumley Parish.

Domestick Chappels.

• 1. At the sumptuous House of Crew, lately built by Sir Randle Crew, in the Reign of King Charles the First.
• 2. Another old one at Woodhey Hall.

1669. Broxton Hundred.

Parish Churches.

• 1. ALdford
• 2. Christleton
• 3. Coddinton
• 4. Dodleston
• 5. Eccleston
• 6. Farndon
• 7. Hanley

The present Patrons.

• R. The Lord of Aldford.
• R. Mostyn of Mostyn in Wales.
• R. Dean of Chester.
• R. Dean of Chester.
• R. Venables Baron of Kinderton.
• R. Bishop of Lichfield.
• R. Dean of Chester.

Parish Churches.

• 8. Harthill, a Donative.
• 9. Malpas two Rectories.
• 10. Plemston
• 11. Pulford
• 12. Shoklach
• 13. Sutton-Gelders.
• 14. Tilstan
• 15. Totenhale
• 16. Warton

The present Patrons.

• Brereton of Brereton.
• Idem Brereton of both ferè, excepting the eighth Course of the one.
• V. Bishop of Chester.
• R. Warburton of Arley.
• V. Pilston of Emrads.
• V. Stanley of Alderley.
• R. Lord Brereton two Turns. Corbet of Stoke third Turn.
• R. Bishop of Chester.
• R. Bishop of Chester.

Parochial Chappels.

• 1. Pulton, now in decay, within Pulford Parish.
• 2. Churchen-Heath Chappel, within St. Werburge of Chester's Parish.

Chappels of Ease.

• 1. Chad Chappel in Malpas Parish.
• 2. Cholmeley Chappel in Malpas Parish; sumptuously repaired by Robert Lord Cholmeley Earl of Leinster, Anno Domini 1652.
• 3. Boughton Chappel in St. Oswald's Parish; it is now demolished, and was within the Liberties of the City of Chester.
• 4. Hargreve Chappel, in Tarvin Parish.
• 5. Wyrvin Chappel.

Domestick Chappels.

• 1. At Eaton Hall, the Seat of Grosvenour.
• 2. At Lea Hall, the Seat of the now Lady Calveley.

1669. Edesbery Hundred.

Parish Churches.

• 1. TArvin
• 2. Barrow
• 3. Thorneton
• 4. Iuce.
• 5. Frodsham.
• 6. Weverham
• 7. Torperley
• 8. Over
• 9. White-gate; See Stat. of 33 H. 8. c. 32.
• 10. Bunbury, See Web's Collections put out by Dan. King, in his Vale-Royal of England, pag. 104, 105.

The present Patrons.

• V. A Prebendary of Lichfield.
• R. Savage Earl Rivers.
• R. Booth of Dunham-Massy.
• V. Cholmeley of Vale-Royal.
• V. Christchurch Colledge in Oxford.
• V. Bishop of Chester.
• R. Crew of Utkinton.
• V. Bishop of Chester.
• R. Cholmeley of Vale-Royal.
• V. The Company of Huber dushers in London.

Parochial Chappels.

• 1. Little Budworth, within Over Parish.

Chappels of Ease.

• 1. Watenhall Chappel, in Over Parish.
• 2. Alvandeley Chappel, in Frodsham Parish.

Domestick Chappels.

• 1. At Stapleford Hall.
• 2. At Darley Hall.

1669. Wirehall Hundred.

Parish Churches.

• 1. BAckford
• 2. Bebington
• 3. Bidston,
• 4. Brunborough
• 5. Burton
• 6. Estham
• 7. Haswell
• 8. Neston
• 9. Shotwyke,
• 10. Stoke, a Donative,
• 11. Thurstraston
• 12. Walleysey
• 13. West-Kirkby
• 14. Woodchurch
• 15. Overchurch in Upton,

The present Patrons.

• V. Bishop of Chester.
• R. Stanley of Hooton.
• Bishop of Chester.
• R. Cholmeley of Vale-Royal.
• R. Bishop of Lichfield.
• V. In Dispute between the Dean of Che∣ster and Stanley of Hooton.
• R. Clegge of Gayton, and Brown of Upton, al∣ternis vicibus.
• V. Dean of Chester.
• Dean of Chester.
• The Lord of Dutton.
• R. Dean of Chester.
• R. Bishop of Chester.
• R. Dean of Chester.
• R. Birch of Chester.
• Stanley of Hooton.

Chappels of Ease.

• 1. Moreton Chappel, in Bidston Parish.
• 2. Birkenhead Chappel, now in decay, in Bidston Parish.

Domestick Chappels.

• 1. At Hooton Hall.

Sum total, according to this Catalogue, in the whole County of Chester, be∣sides the City of Chester,
Of Parish Curches	75
Of Parochial Chappels	18
Of Chappels of Ease	34
Of Domestick Chappels	17
	In toto of all sorts	144

1669. Churches in the City of Chester.

• 1. SAint Werburge, or the Cathedral Church, with a square Steeple in the middle, having the Parish Church of St. Oswald in the South Isle thereof, because St. Oswald's Church, which was wont to be the Parish Church, is now the com∣mon Hall of the City.
• 2. St. Peters, with a Spire Steeple, by the High Cross.
• 3. Trinity Curch, with a Spire Steeple also, in the Water-gate Street.
• 4. St. Martin's of the Ash.
• 5. St. Maries, by the Castle.
• 6. St. Toola's, that is, St. Olaves, near to the Bridge.
• 7. St. Michaels, in the middle of the Bridge Street, formerly a Monastery. See Mo∣nasticon, Pars 2. pag. 185.
• 8. St. Brigits, over against St. Michaels, on the other side of the Street.
• 9. St. John's Church, by the River side, without the Walls.
• 10. Little St. Johns, without the North Gate; it was demolished in the time of the late War, about 1645.

Concerning the Churches and Chappels of Bucklow Hundred, I shall speak more particularly in their due place and order, as within the compass of my intended Task; onely we may take notice here, that Parishes were first distinguished in England under Honorius Archbishop of Canterbury, about the Year of Christ 636. Cambden's Britannia Printed 1607. pag. 116. Parker's Historia Cantuariensis, pag. 52.

Ridley, in his View of the Civil and Ecclesiastical Law, tells us, pa. 176, 177. that Fonts in the Primitive Times, were not in the Churches; but the Custom of those elder Ages, was to Baptize in Rivers and Fountains; and that Custom being discontinued through Persecution, Fonts were erected in private Houses; and in more peaceable Ages they made bold to build their Fonts a little distance from the Church: after∣wards they obtained to set them in the Church Porch; at last they got them into the Church: But they were not at first placed in every Church immediately; for at the first they were found onely in the Cathedral Church where the Bishop resided: and though Service might be said in the lesser Minsters and Rural Churches, yet the Right of Sepulture and Baptism belonged to the Cathedral Church, unless it were in case of necessity; and it was therefore called The Mother-Church, because as People in their Mo∣thers Womb were born Men, so in the Fonts of Baptism, as in the Churches Womb, they were born Christians. In succeeding Ages, when it was found that the Mother-Church was too far distant from some Villages, and so situated, that in the Winter the People could not repair thither, consideration was had of this Inconvenience, and the Bishop took occasion hence to transfer the Rite of Baptism and Sepulture to the Rural Churches, and this, together with the Rite of Tythes, made it a Parish Church of that kind which we now have. But because also in many Parishes some Families lived so remote from the Church, that they could not conveniently frequent the same, it was indulged to such, that they might build a private Oratory in or near their Mansion-places, reserving for the most part the Rite of Baptism and Sepulture to the Parish Church, which, in respect of these lesser Oratories, was to be accounted the Baptismal or Mother-Church. It was also provided, that these Families (notwithstanding their Grant from the Bishop for a private Oratory) should upon more solemn Feast-days, re∣pair to their Parish Church, as it seems by the Council held at Agatha. These private Oratories were afterwards called Capellae, Chappels; and those that did Exercise in them the Ministerial Function, were called Capellani, Chaplains. Thus Ridley.

Now the word Capella, quasi Capsella, is a Diminutive from Capsa, which signifies a Chest or Coffer, because the Relicks of Saints or holy Persons were kept in such a

Chest; and the place, where such Chest was kept, was so called also; undè Nomen Capella, Capellanus, &c. So Spelman in his Glossary upon that word.

Beatus Rhenanus, with Durand, do derive the word Capella from Capa or Cappa, St. Mar∣tin's Hood being so called barbarously, and carried about for good luck by Lewis the French King in all his Wars. But others derive it à Pellibus Caprarum, wherewith such portable Tents for God's Service, as were to be removed in their warlike Expeditions, were covered. Dr. Prideaux, in his Consecration Sermon of Excester Colledge Chap∣pel in Oxford, pag. 26.

None might of right build Oratories without Licence from the Bishop, at least none might Administer Divine Service there without the Bishop's special Licence.

Oratories erected in the Houses of Great Persons, for the use of a private Family, I call such Domestick Chappels.

When built by one, or several Persons, in some convenient place, for the use of se∣veral Families, or of a Township or Townships, not having liberty of Baptism or Bu∣rial, I call such Chappels of Ease.

When built by a more numerous multitude of the Neighborhood, consisting of one or more Villages, having got liberty for Baptism and Burial, with Consecration thereof by the Bishop, and sometimes an Allowance in Money or Tythes from the Mother-Church, I call such Parochial Chappels: for these have all the Rites and Ceremonies as the Mother-Church or Parish Church hath, except the Tythes; so that indeed they are as lesser Parishes created within the greater for the benefit of the Neighborhood.

As to the Consecration of Churches, we find the Jews had their Encaenia, or Feasts of Dedication of their Temple, John 10. ver. 22.1 Maccabaeorum, cap. 4. ver. 59.

But there was no Dedication of our Christian Churches to Saints, until Praying to Saints was in use; and after Churches began to be Dedicated to Saints, their Dedica∣tion Feasts were usually kept on that Day, which was the Feast-day appointed in the Kalendar for commemoration of that Saint, to whom such Church was particularly Dedicated. This time was called with us, The Wakes, from Waking, as the Latine word Vigiliae, à vigilando, because at such times the People Prayed most of the Night before such Feast-day in the Churches. And though the Primitive Custom herein was sacred, yet how it was abused in the Reign of King Edgar, Anno Domini 967. aut circi∣tèr, appears by the Canons of the Church in his Reign, Num. 28.—Docemus, ut in Ecclesiarum Encaeniis unusquisque se modestum exhibeat, & orationi incumbat diligentèr, non poculis, non luxui deditus. Spelman's Councils, Pars 1. pag. 451. And at last it turned to Feasting and Merriment of Neighbors.

Now Invocation of Saints for three hundred years after Christ cannot be found among any of the Fathers: None did teach Invocation of Saints, till by Rhetorical Expressions, and Poetical Fancies, like Invocating of the Muses, Basil, Nyssen, and Nazianzen had led the way. Dr. Prideaux, Lecture 15. pag. 243.

Amplissimo clarissimoque viro Domino Petro Leycester Baronetto, Patriae Antiquitatis Instauratori faelicissimo.

Qua latus Hiberno Regina Britannia Ponto Obvertit, Letos Cestria pandit agros. Cestria Nobilium densa Stellata Corona, Qualiter innumero flore superbit ager. Emicat hos inter Proceres clarissimus Heros Leycester, docta nobilitate nitens. Quicquid miratur Musarum Graecia Sedes, Et quicquid Romae Pagina docta probat, Quic quid condiderit praeclaris Anglia fastis, Leycester vasto pectoris or be tenet: Instat edax Rerum tempus, morsuque maligno Decerpens Patriae deterit omne decus. Occurrit perdocta manus, monumentaque fato Interitura olim vivere penna jubet: Splendida Plebeios dedignatura labores Gaudent Patricia Stemmata ducta manu.

Robertus Hunter Knotsfordiensis Ecclesiae Pastor in Agro Cestrensi; Postea vero Maxfeldensis.

The Fourth Part, Comprehending the ANTIQUITIES OF Bucklow Hundred IN CHESHIRE.

Acton Grange.

H Find no mention of this Hamlet, or Village in Dooms-day Book; so that in the time of the Conqueror it seemeth to be waste: and many other also in this Hundred be now inhabi∣ted, which are not so much as named in that ancient Record.

All that I observe concerning this little Hamlet is, That it an∣ciently belonged to the Priory of Norton; of the Foundation of which Priory I shall speak more fully when I come to Norton.

Soon after the dissolution of Abbeys and religious Houses by King Henry the Eighth, it was purchased, together with the Mannor of Norton, and other Lands, by Richard Brooke Esquire, from the King: the Charter under the Broad Seal bearing Date the tenth of December, 37 Hen. 8. 1545. Since which time it hath continued entire, not having any Charterer within the same, unto his succeeding Posterity; and is now, Anno Domini 1669. in the possession of Sir Richard Brooke of Norton Baronet, and his Tenants.

Agden.

THis small Town of Agden also is not found in Dooms-day Book; it is in old Deeds written Aketon, and sometimes Acton, but now commonly called Agden. It seems William, Son of Simon de Lee, was possessed of Agden in the Reign of Henry

the Third, who gave unto William Rag his Son-in-law one half thereof in these words:—

SCiant praesentes—Ego Willielmus, Filius Simonis de Lee, dedi—Willielmo Rag genero meo, & haeredibus suis de Agnete Filiâ meâ procreatis, pro Homagio & Servitio suo, totam dimidietatem Terrae meae de Acton, quam tenui de Henrico de Trafford: Scili∣cèt totam Terram illam quam idem Willielmus Rag priùs habuit & Tenuit:—Tenendum cùm omnibus libertatibus & aysiamentis praedictae dimidietati Villae de Acton ubiquè pertinentibus: Reddendo indè annuatìm mihi & haeredibus meis unum par albarum Cheirothecarum vel unum Denarium, ad Festum Sancti Martini in hyeme pro omnibus Servitiis—Salvo forinseco Do∣mini Terrae Servitio. Et ego Willielmus & Haeredes mei totam praedictam dimidietatem—in perpetuùm Warrantizabimus: Et Sciendum est, quòd acquietabimus praedictum Williel∣mum Rag, & Haeredes suos de praedictâ Agnete, de Homagio & contrà Matthaeum de Alpraham & Haeredes suos in perpetuùm.—Testibus Domino Thoma de Manwaring, Do∣mino Willielmo de Massy, Roberto de Moldeworth, Thoma del Broom, Alano de Limme, Aytropo de Mulinton, Rogero de Northwich Clerico, & multis aliis. Lib. C. fol. 265. a. The Original Penes Venables of Agden.

* 36.15This William Rag was afterwards called William de Aketon, from his Residence here: and by that Name Matthew Somervyle, Lord of Alpraham, releaseth unto him and his Heirs, the Impleading of him or his Tenants in his Court of Alpraham, but must appear at his Court of Davenham. This was sub Anno Domini 1270. Lib. C. fol. 265. b.

This Moiety of Agden came afterwards to one John Daniel of Agden, Son of Wil∣liam Daniel, in Marriage with Ellen, Daughter of the last William de Aketon, or Agden, by Entail, 38 Edw. 3. which Ellen Married after one Thomas Warburton to her second Husband, and had three other Sisters, Elizabeth, Agatha, and Alice. Lib. C. fol. 266. m.

Ellen (after the Death of Thomas Warburton) Covenants to Settle all her Lands in Agden on William Venables, Brother to Roger Venables, then Parson of Rosthorn Church (both of them Sons to Thomas Venables of Horton, Son of Hugh Venables of Kinderton) and on Ellen his Wife, Daughter of Thomas Daniel, Son of John Daniel and Ellen his Wife aforesaid, by Deed dated 2 Hen. 4. 1401. Lib. C. fol. 265. f. k. The Issue of which William Venables and Ellen his Wife, did enjoy the Moiety of Agden, and whose suc∣ceeding Posterity have enjoyed the same ever since to this day, 1669.

* 36.16The other Moiety of Agden was held of the Barony of Dunham-Massy: for in an old Rentall of Dunham-Massy, now in possession of George Lord Delamere of Dunham-Massy, Dated 3 Hen. 4. I find that Robert Warburton then held medietatem Villae de Acton, nu∣pèr Johannis Acton, per Servitium tertiae partis unius Feodi Militis, & reddendo unum De∣narìum termino Johannis Baptistae. Lib. B. pag. 209.

This other Moiety Agnes the Widow of John Leech of Altrincham, and Daughter and Heir of Robert de Aketon and Jone his Wife, sold unto Sir J. Savage of Clifton, 6 H. 5. 1418. and Sir Thomas Savage Baronet, being seized of the Reversion of this Moiety, sold the same to George Venables of Agden the elder, 17 Jacobi, 1619. Lib. C. fol. 265. g. So that now Venables of Agden hath the whole Mannor of Agden, save onely Ousingcroft Farm, cùm pertinentiis formerly granted away out of Savage's Moiety.

Hugh Venables of Agden, 23 Hen. 8. Sued for all the Lands belonging to the Barony of Kinderton, as next rightful Heir, against Sir William Venables of Golborne, but could never get the possession thereof. Afterwards William Venables of Agden released all his Right to Kinderton Lands, 30 Elizabethae, 1588. unto Thomas Venables of Kinderton Esquire, Father of Peter Venables now Baron of Kinderton.

Altrincham.

ALtrincham is of the ancient Fee of the Barons of Dunham-Massy. In the Reign of Edward the First, Hamon de Massy, Lord of Dunham-Massy, Instituted Burgesses in this Town, and granted them a Gild-Mercatory here, that is, a Society for free Traf∣fick and Merchandize, about the Year of Christ 1290. as appears by this following Deed, the Original whereof is now in the custody of John Coe, the present Mayor of Altrincham, Anno Domini 1667.

OMnibus Christi fidelibus hanc praesentem Chartam inspecturis vel audituris, Hamundus de Massy Dominus de Doneham salutem sempiternam in Domino: Noveritis me de∣disse, ac hâc praesenti Chartâ meâ pro me & Haeredibus meis confirmâsse Burgensibus meis de Altringham, quòd Villa mea de Altringham sit Liber Burgus & quòd Burgenses mei ejusdem Burgi habeant Gildam Mercatoriam in eodem Burgo cùm omnibus Libertatibus, & Liberis Con∣suetudinibus ad hujusmodi Gildam pertinentibus, secundùm Consuetudines Burgi de Maccles∣field: Et quòd quieti sint per totam Terram meam, tàm per aquam quàm per Terram, de Tolneto, Passagio, Pontagio, Stallagio, Lastagio, & omnibus aliis Servis* 37.1 consuetudinibus: Concessi etiàm praedictis Burgensibus meis Communam Pasturam† 37.2, Turbariam bruariam, infrà Limi∣tes de Doneham, Altringham, & Tymperlegh; salvis mihi & Haeredibus meis approviamentis nostris, & salvâ mihi & Haeredibus meis Clausturâ de Sunderland ad voluntatem nostram sinè contradictione aliquorum, quandocunquè illud claudere voluerimus: Ità quòd praedicti Burgenses mei habeant Communam Pasturam sempèr & ubique ad omnia animalia sua infrà metas de Sunderland, dummodo praedictus locus de Sunderland non clausus fuerit, salvo mihi & Haeredibus meis toto tempore Pessonis in praedicto Sunderland: Ità quòd eodem tempore praedictum Sunderland in defensionem ad voluntatem nostram habere poterimus sinè contradi∣ctione aliquorum: Et cùm clausum fuerit praedictum Sunderland, praedicti Burgenses mei ha-Beant Communam suam usquè ad hayam praedicti Sunderland, & non ultrà. Volo etiàm, quòd omnes Burgenses mei, qui porcos habuerint tempore Pessonis, in Burgo meo vel infra Festum beati Jacobi & tempore Pessonis dent rectum Takcum quandò Pasturant infrà praedictas Communas, & alibì cùm porcis suis ejusdem Burgi tempore Pessonis non ibunt: Concessi etiàm praedictis Burgensibus meis Housebold & Haybold in omnibus boscis praedictorum locorum, exceptis Hayis & defensis boscis meis: Concedo etiàm praedictis Burgensibus meis, quòd non implacitentur extrà Portimotum ejusdem Burgi, nèc in aliquo Placito extrà Bur∣gum suum tractentur de transgressionibus infrà Burgum factis: Et si aliquis eorum in misericordiâ pro aliquo forisfacto incidit, amercietur per Pares suos; & hoc secundùm quan∣titatem delicti. Volo etiàm quòd Burgenses mei molent omnia blada sua supèr Terram de Al∣tringham crescentia, vel in eâdem Villâ Herburgata* 37.3, ad molendina mea pro octavo-decimo vase multurae: Concedo etiàm quòd praedicti Burgenses mei faciant sibi Praepositos & Ballivos per Commune Concilium mei, vel Ballivorum meorum & ipsorum: Et nullum Placitum in dicto Burgo teneatur, nèc determinetur, nisi coràm me vel Ballivo meo: Et quod unusquisque Burgensis tenèat singulum Burgagium suum duarum Perticarum Terrae in latitudine, & quin∣que in longitunine, cùm unà Acrâ Terrae integrâ in Campis, pro duodecem Denariis ad tres Terminos anni mihi & Haeredibus meis annualìm Solvendis per aequales Portiones; videlicèt ad Nativitatem Sancti Johannis Baptistae, ad Festum omnium Sanctorum, & ad Annunciati∣onem beatae Mariae; liberè, quietè, pacificè, & integrè, cùm omnibus libertatibus praescriptis: Et quòd singulus Burgensis Burgagium suum possit vendere, invadiare, dare, vel in Testamento assignare cuicunquè vel quibuscunque voluerit, exceptis Ministris Domini Regis & Viris Reli∣giosis, sinè contradictione alicujus vel aliquorum; salvâ mihi & Haeredibus meis libertate Furni nostri in eodem Burgo: Ego verò praedictus Haniundus & Haeredes mei praedicta Bur∣gagia, cùm acris Terrae eis adjacentibus, & omnibus libertatibus suprascriptis, praedictis Bur∣gensibus meis, & Haeredibus suis & assignatis, contrà omnes Gentes in perpetuùm Warrantiza∣bimus: In hujus rei testimonium huic praesenti Chartae Sigillum meum apposui. Hiis Testibus, Dominis Reginaldo de Grey tùnc Justiciario Cestriae, Humfrido de Bello campo, Ricardo de Massy Militibus, Gilberto de Aston, Thomâ de Actone, Hugone de Baggelegh, Matthaeo de Hale, Henrico de Doneham, Johanne de Bowdon, & aliis.

Charta 18 Edw. 1. memb. 3. Rex concessit Hamoni de Massy unum Mercatum per diem Martis apud Manerium suum de Altringham, & unam Feriam per tres dies duraturam, vide∣licèt, in Vigilia, die, & crastino Festi Assumptionis beatae Mariae* 37.4. Lib. C. fol. 260. q.

The Tuesday Market continueth at this day; but the Fair is kept now on the twenty fifth day of July, and the later Fair-day on the eleventh day of November.

Although we usually stile the chief Officer here, Mayor of Altrincham, yet in truth he is no more than a principal Officer, without any Magisterial Authority.

In a Rentall of Dunham-Massy, dated 3 Hen. 4. 1402. I find there were about forty Freeholders or Charterers in Altrincham, the rest of the Tenants of Altrincham, then not above eighteen in number, were Tenants at Will. And it appears by that Rentall, as well as by another of my own in Henry the Seventh's time, that in those Ages till Hen. 8. the ancient Tenants in our County had generally no Leases for Lives, as now they have: and the Rents which at this day we call Old Rents, were in those former Ages the utmost value of such Tenements on the Rack, so much have these late Ages outstripped the former for value, as well for Land as other Commodities.

At this day, 1669. there are above twenty Charterers in this Town, whereof Robert Parker 's of Oldfield-Hall in Altrincham Gentleman is of greatest value, next to which is that belonging to William Leycester of Hale-Lowe Gentleman. Most of all the rest are very small Parcels, not worth the reckoning up; the chief Lord being George Booth of Dunham-Massy, Lord Delamere.

There are so very many small Cottages erected here by the permission of the Lords of Dunham-Massy, that it is now become a Nest of Beggars.

Anderton.

The Township of Anderton is not in Dooms-day Book. Inquisitio capta post mortem Vriani de Sancto Petro, 23 Edw. 1. (intèr alia) praedictus Vrianus tenuit Manerium de Anderton in Dominico suo ut de Feodo, de Domino Rege in Capite per Servitium unius Li∣brae Piperis solvendi ad Scaccarium Cestriae, &c. as I find it in W. Vernon's Notes: So that Vrian de Sampier held Anderton in the time of E. 1. but when first granted to the Family of Sampier, or how long it continued in that Family, or how and when it devolved to Sutton of Sutton nigh Maxfield in Cheshire, is yet unknown to me. Certain it is, that Sir Peter Warburton, one of the Judges of the Common-Pleas at Westminster, purchased this Mannor from Richard Sutton, Son of Francis Sutton of Sutton nigh Maxfield Esquire, by Deed, dated the twenty ninth of November, 43 Eliz. 1600. from whom it descen∣ded unto Sir Thomas Stanley of Nether-Alderley Baronet, now Owner thereof, 1669. to wit, Son of Sir Thomas Stanley Knight, by Elizabeth his Wife, Daughter and Heir of the said Sir Peter Warburton.

* 37.5It is now commonly said of this Village by the Neighborhood, as it were prover∣bially, That here is neither Gentleman nor Beggar, Charterer, Cottager, nor Alehouse, but a Common without end: for that the Common is circular, lying round about the Township; and the Demaine hath been set to Derry-men and Tenants, so as no Gentleman of long time hath lived there.

Appleton & Hull.

THis Town of Appleton and Hull, in William the Conqueror's time, belonged to Osbern Son of Tezzon, the Ancestor to the Boydels of Dodleston, as appears by the Re∣cord of Dooms-day Book.

Among the Evidences of Thomas Merbury of Merbury nigh Comberbach Esquire, Anno Domini 1666. I found this following Deed copied out in a loose Paper, the Ori∣ginal whereof is there underwritten to be in the possession of Thomas Stanley, being so attested under his own Hand. Lib. C. fol. 286. d.

HUgo de Boydel omnibus tàm praesentibus quàm futuris, ad quorum notitiam praesens Pa∣gina pervenerit, salutem. Noverit universitas vestra, me concessisse—Roberto Lan∣celyn pro Homagio & Servitio suo, totam Terram & Tenementum, quod Ricardus Lancelyn Pater praefati Roberti tenuit de Antecessoribus meis; videlicèt, Pulton & Bebington, Appleton & Hull, cùm omnibus pertinentiis suis, illi & Haeredibus suis—Faciendo mihi & Haeredibus meis Servitium duorum Militum; videlicèt cùm duobus Armatis apud Dodleston in Werrâ quadra∣ginta diebus: Scilicèt Servitium unius Hominis pro Pulton & Bebington; & Servitium alte∣rius Hominis pro Appleton & Hull, pro omni Servitio: Salvo Servitio quatuor Hominum quolibet tertio Anno per sex dies ad meum Heimineum* 37.6 faciendum apud Dodleston: Pro hâc Donatione & Confirmatione idem Robertus Lancelyn dedit mihi viginti marcas Argenti, &c. Hiis Testibus, Radulpho de Manwaring, Radulpho de Monte-alto, Willielmo de Pall', Thomâ Filio Willielmi, Roberto de Fulford, &c. about the end of Henry the Second's Reign.

I find Geffrey Son of Adam de Dutton (Ancestor to Warburton of Arley) possessed of this Township in the beginning of Henry the Third's Reign, and is at this present be∣longing to Warburton of Arley, 1669.

Placita Cestriae, die Martis proximè post Festum Sancti Lucae, 10 Edw. 3.

GAlfridus de Warburton opponit se versùs Hugonem de Audley de Placito quòd justè & sinè dilatione acquietet eum de Servitiis, quae Willielmus de Boydel Senior ab eo exigit de libero Tenemento suo, quod de praefato Hugone tenet in Hull & Appleton: undè idem Hugo, qui medius est inter eos, acquietare debet, &c. Vìcecomes returnavit, quòd praedictus Hugo nihil habuit in Ballivâ suâ distringere, &c. Lib. C. fol. 287. k. The Original among the Evidences of Thomas Merbury of Merbury Esquire, Anno Domini 1666.

Charterers in Appleton & Hull, 1666.

• 1. Sir Peter Brooke of Mere, which Lands he lately purchased from Merbury of Walton.
• 2. Mr. Gregge of Bradley in Appleton.
• 3. Thomas Birch of Birch in Lancashire.
• 4. Thomas Warburton of Hill-cliffe.
• 5. Mary Wright pro Southerne's Land.
• 6. William Dentith of Appleton.
• 7. Robert Okell of Appleton.
• 8. John Webster of Appleton.
• 9. Widow Middleton of Appleton.
• 10. Mr. Grimsdich of Grimsdich.
• 11. William Morris of Gropenhall.
• 12. John Rycroft of Caterich-Lane.
• 13. Widow Duddle.
• 14. Jane Barker Widow.
• 15. John Minshull.
• 16. Mr. Thomas Hatton.
• 17. Joseph Wats.
• 18. Widow Mosse.
• 19. Peter Crosby Gentleman.
• 20. Thomas Millington Gentleman.
• 21. Edward Twambrooke.

Ashley.

HAmo de Massy, the first Baron of Dunham Massy, held Ashley in the Conqueror's time, as appears by Dooms-day Book.

And in the Reign of Henry the Third, or sooner, another Hamon de Massy, then Baron of Dunham Massy, gave half of Ashley unto Robert de Massy. Lib. C. fol 150. d. e.

Richard, Son of Robert Massy, gives the Mannor of Ashley (that is, the Moiety of Ashley) unto Geffrey Dutton of Chedle, in exchange for Dutton of Chedle's Land in Walton (to wit, the Moiety of Nether-Walton) and for eight Shillings Rent from William, Son of Kenew∣ret of Newton near Chester. Lib. C. fol. 150 f.

Hamon de Massy the Son, confirms the Grant which Richard de Massy, Son of Robert de Massy, made to Sir Geffrey Dutton of Chedle, of all his Land in Ashley, doing those Servi∣ces which Robert Massy, Father of the said Richard Massy, did use to do to Sir Hamon Massy the Father. Lib. C. fol. 149. z. the Original among the Evidences of George Lord Delamere of Dunham-Massy.

Geffrey Dutton of Chedle gives to Hamon Dutton his younger Son, totum Manerium suum de Ashley, about 14 Edw. 1. 1286. Lib. C. fol. 150. I. and Robert Massy of Sale, Son and Heir of Richard Massy, releaseth unto the said Hamon Dutton, Son of Geffrey Dutton Lord of Chedle, all his Right in the Mannor of Ashley. Lib, C. fol. 150. g.

* 37.7This Hamon, Seating himself at Ashley, was sirnamed De Ashley, as the manner of those Ages was, to stile Men from the Places where they lived; and his Posterity afterwards wholly retained the Sirname of Ashley: which Family continued in the Name of the Ashleys at Ashley, till about the end of the Reign of Henry the Eighth.

* 37.8In an old Rentall of Dunham-Massy, 3 Hen. 4. I read thus: — Georgius Ashley tenet medietatem de Ashley, videlicèt duas bovatas terrae in Dominico, & in Servitio dimidii Feodi Militis, & faciendo liberum Servitium unius Militis per octo dies tempore Guerrae ad Castrum Cestriae sumptibus propriis, & per redditum duodecem Denariorum per annum: (this was the Moiety, which Hamon de Massy gave to Hugh Massy in the Reign of Henry the Third, Lib. C. fol. 151. n.) alteram medietatem tenet de Dutton de Chedle, reddendo unum Denarium per annum, & faciendo Hamoni de Massy Domino de Doneham redditum & Servitia de antiquo tempore debita; that was, Reddendo unum Circulum Rosarum termino Johannis Saptistae, as appears by another Rentall de anno 21 Edw. 3.

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Ar, two Bars Sable, a Crescent of the first.

I. A About the end of Henry the Eighth, Thomasin, Daughter and Heir of George Ashley of Ashley Esquire, brought this Inheritance unto Richard Brere∣ton of Lea-Hall, not far from Middlewich, younger Son of Sir William Brereton of Brereton, in Marriage; by whom she had Issue George Brereton; and two Daugh∣ters, Agnes and Jane.

II. George Brereton of Ashley Esquire, Son and Heir of Richard, Married Sibill, Daughter and Heir of William Arderne of Timperley Gentleman, and had Issue William Brereton, eldest Son; Richard, second Son; George Brereton, third Son, Baptized at Bowdon the eighth day of November 1570. who was buried at Bowdon the nineteenth of November following; Otti∣well another Son, buried 4 Octobris 1571. also another Son called George Brereton Baptized at Bowdon 7 Junii, 1573. he had a Son called John Brereton, Baptized at Bowdon August 20. 1593. Edward another Son, Baptized at Bowdon the sixth of Septem∣ber 1574. John Brereton another Son, died young, buried at Bowdon 27 Junii 1575. Thomas another Son, Baptized at Bowdon 5 Decembris, 1577. Randle another Son, Bap∣tized at Bowdon the tenth of May, 1585. Lucretia a Daughter, Baptized at Bowdon the

twelfth of November 1579. Jane Brereton another Daughter, buried at Bowdon 9 No∣vembris 1581.

This George Brereton Esquire was buried at Bowdon the twelfth of October 1587. and Sibill his Wife was buried at Bowdon 16 Junii, 1583.

III. William Brereton of Ashley Esquire, Son and Heir of George and Sibill, Married Jane, one of the Daughters and Coheirs of Peter Warburton of Arley Esquire* 37.9, Anno Domini 1589. and had Issue Richard Brereton eldest Son, Baptized in December† 37.10 1590. Thomas second Son, Baptized at Bowdon 26 Martii 1594. William third Son, Baptized at Bowdon 23 Decembris 1596. he died unmarried, and was buried at Bowdon 4 Aprilis 1632. Peter fourth Son, Baptized at Bowdon 26 Augusti 1601, he died unmarried at Gray's-Inn in London 1659. Frances eldest Daughter, Baptized at Bowdon 26 Augusti 1592. she Married Alexander Barlow of Barlow in Lancashire Esquire. Mary second Daughter, Baptized at Bowdon 20 Octobris 1595. she died unmarried. Anne third Daughter, Baptized at Bowdon 6 Januarii 1597. she Married Robert Tatton of Withen∣shaw in Cheshire Esquire, 8 Januarii 1628. Katharine fourth Daughter, Baptized at Bowdon 16 Martii 1598. she Married Raufe Ashton of Kirkby in Yorkshire, younger Son of Sir Richard Ashton of Middleton in Lancashire.

This William Brereton of Ashley, was Sheriff of Cheshire 1609. and died August 29. 1630. aged sixty three years. Jane his Wife was buried at Bowdon 5 Martii 1627. whose Monument, with her Husbands, remains in Bowdon Church.

IV. Richard Brereton of Ashley Esquire, Son and Heir of William and Jane, was never Married, but had an illegitimate Son, begot of one Ellin Higginson his Servant, called William Brereton, living at Chester Anno Domini 1653.

This Richard was Sheriff of Cheshire 1632. and was buried at Bowdon 14 Septembris 1649. in the fifty ninth year of his Age.

V. Thomas Brereton of Ashley Esquire, Brother and Heir to Richard, Married Theo∣dosia, Daughter of Sir Thomas Tirrell of Castlethorp in Buckinghamshire, but had no Issue, leaving his whole Inheritance to be shared by his three Sisters abovesaid, and their Heirs.

This Thomas built the Domestick Chappel at Ashley, and a fair Dining-room there, Anno Domini 1653. and was buried at Bowdon in the Year of Christ 1660. aged sixty six years.

Charterers in Ashley 1666.

• 1. George Lord Delamere of Dunham-Massy, hath part of Arthur Worseley's Tene∣ment.
• 2. Daniel of Over-Tabley hath one Tenement.
• 3. Buckley of Chedle hath part of Edward Hill's Tenement, the other part is now the Lady Whitmores, purchased from Savage of Clifton in Cheshire.
• 4. Massy of Lea-Hall in Mottram-Andrew; scilicèt pro Harper's House.
• 5. Robert Heskith of Ashley.
• 6. Richard Wright of Ashley.
• 7. Thomas Worseley of Ashley.

Ashton super Mersey.

IN an old Rentall of Dunham-Massy, dated 3 Hen. 4. 1402. I find it thus,—

Georgius Carington Chivaler tenet Manerium suum de Carington, & medietatem Villae de Ashton, & tertiam partem Villae de Partington, faciendo liberum Servitium pro duabus partibus Feodi Militis; ut per Chartam Antecessoribus dicti Georgii per Hamonem Massy Militem factam: & reddendo per annum de Stothe, aliàs dictum Sheriffs-Tooth, septem Denarios: Et ipse faciet Sectam Curiae, quae vocatur Judger, de quindenâ in quindenam:

ità quòd pro quâlibet defaltâ dabit per viam amerciamenti duos solidos pro certo; & ipse, & quatuor Tenentium suorum de villatâ de Carington, venient ad visum Franci-Plegii.

In the Notes collected by Will. Vernon I read, Post mortem Willielmi Boydell, 23 Edw. 3. intèr Feoda dicti Willielmi: (inter alia) Robertus Ashton, Ricardus Dikenson, & Jo∣hannes Deane tenent medietatem Maneriorum de Sale & Ashton per Servitium unius Feodi Militis, & quilibet eorum tertio anno tres Denarios.

This Robert Ashton was Rector Ecclesiae de Ashton 23 Edw. 3. These were Feoffees in Trust; so that one Moiety of Ashton seems to be of the Fee of Boydell of Dodleston, and the other Moiety of the Fee of the Barons of Dunham Massy.

It is plain the Parish Church here was a Rectory in the beginning of Edward the Third's Reign; which now hath Brereton of Honford for its Patron, 1666. and was invested in Sir Vrian Brereton, younger Son of Randle Brereton of Malpas, in the Right of Margaret his Wife, Daughter and Heir of William Honford of Honford Esquire, and Widow of Sir John Stanley; which Sir Vrian was living 1566.

The Church here comprehendeth within its Parish,

	l.	s.	d.
Sale	00	10	09
Ashton one half	00	07	00
	00	17	09

The greatest part of Ashton super Mersey at this day 1666. belongs to Brereton of Honford. The Lord Delamere of Dunham-Massy hath about an eighth part thereof.

Aston juxta Sutton.

THis Town of Aston gave Name to the Family of the Astons, who have been Seated here for a long time.

In the Record of Dooms-day Book we find, that Odard held this Town und••r William Fitz Nigell, Baron of Halton, sub Anno Christi 1086. where we find onely one Aston named: for Aston juxtà Sutton, and Aston-Grange, as now they be severed and distin∣guished, I conceive were then but one Town.

The same Odard held part of Dutton also from Hugh Lupus Earl of Chester, as appears by the same Record; which Odard was the undoubted Ancestor to the Duttons of Dut∣ton, as appears by several Deeds of great antiquity among the Evidences of Dutton of Dutton, which I have seen.

About the Reign of Henry the Second, I find one Gilbert de Aston certainly possessed of this Town of Aston juxta Sutton: In which Line and Family it hath continued ever since to this day, Sir Willoughby Aston of Aston Baronet being now Owner of the same, who hath built a sumptuous House here a little distance from the old one, Anno Christi 1668.

Whether that Gilbert de Aston be Descended from Odard, let the more curious make strict enquiry; I am sure I never yet saw any thing to prove it.

* 37.11In this Town is now onely one Charterer 1666. which small Freehold Richard Morris of Aston is now possessed of: It belonged to one Higginson, whose Daughter and Heir Married the said Rich. Morris, and was formerly bought by one J. Higginson, the Lessee of this Land, from Thomas Paver of Lostock, John Thomason of Harpesford, and Richard Taylor, joynt Tenants thereof, 25 Hen. 8. This I conceive was part of that Oxgange of Land, which Richard de Aston gave away to Raufe, Son of Richard de Kings∣ley, in the Reign of Henry the Third.

In this Aston lieth a certain parcel of Land, called Middleton-Grange, as the same stands Mized by it self in our common Mize-Book of Cheshire, and now belongeth to Sir Willoughby Aston Lord of this Town. I conceive it is the same with that called

Mid-Eston in Doomesday-Book, which then belonged to the Church of St. Werburge in Chester; and was held by William Fit-Nigell Baron of Halton, as Tenant to St. Wer∣burge: So called, as it were, Middle of Aston, when the Town was yet undivided, and lieth between Aston-Grange, and Aston juxtà Sutton; howbeit it is now wholly taken to lie in Aston juxtà Sutton. This Middle-Eston was confirmed to the Priory of Norton by John Lacy Earl of Lincoln and Baron of Halton, about the twentieth Year of Henry the Third, Anno Domini 1236. as I find the Deed transcribed in a long I archment Roll among the Evidences of Dutton of Dutton, at Dutton, wherein sundry other Deeds be∣longing to the Priory of Norton are also transcribed, by the name of Middel-Estonam cùm omnibus pertinentiis, quam habent ex Dono Dominae Matildae, quondàm Uxoris Domini Collini de Loches: And also the Earl quits the same from Wardship and Relief, for him and his Heirs, which was due for that Land.

This Middleton-Grange, called also sometimes Middle-Aston-Grange, was purchased from the King, after the Dissolution of Abbeys, by Thomas Aston of Aston Esquire, 37 Hen. 8. for the Sum of 270 l. 11 s. 5 d. paying the yearly Rent of 1 l. 1 s. 9 d. So I find in the Chartulary of Aston-Deeds, pag. 66. num. 537.

Here was anciently a Chappel called Middleton-Chappel, where the Prior and Con∣vent of Norton were bound to find a Priest, in former Ages, to say Mass on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, Weekly, for ever: Which Chappel being out of Repair, and Service said there onely on Sundays for forty Years then last past, it was complained of by Richard Aston, Son of Sir Robert Aston, at a Visitation 3 Hen. 6. 1425. and an Order was made by Richard Stanley then Arch-Deacon of Chester, the twentieth of August, 3 Hen. 6. That whereas the Prior and Convent of Norton, long before the same was an Abbey, did Covenant with the Abbot of Vale-Royal, to find at their own proper Cost a fit Chaplain to Officiate here three days a week, as aforesaid; It was ordered, That the said Agreement should be kept and observed. But these Variances concerning Middleton-Chappel, between Robert Abbot of the Monastery of St. Mary of Norton, and Richard Aston of Aston Esquire, were composed by the mediation of Thomas Dutton Esquire, and Anne his Wife, Dame Isabel late Wife of Sir John Car∣rington, and Jenkin of Leycester: Dated the tenth of November, 32 Hen. 6. The same Chartulary, pag. 23. num. 501. & pag. 21. num. 503. & pag. 216. num. 504.

But after that Middleton-Chappel fell into decay, another Chappel was erected in later Ages, somewhat nearer to the Hall of Aston, called Aston-Chappel, situate within the Parish of Runcorne; and in lieu of finding a Priest to Officiate here by the Abbot of Norton, the King (after those Lands came into his Hands) gave five Pounds yearly Rent to the Maintenance of a Minister here at Aston-Chappel, issuing out of the Lands late belonging to Norton-Abby, by a Decree in the Court of Aug∣mentations at London, dated the 28 of January, 33 Hen. 8. Which Decree was Ex∣emplified and Confirmed in the 13 Year of Queen Elizabeth, inter les Chartes de Aston, Num. 505. Which Sum of Five Pounds is yearly paid at this day, 1671. by the Kings Auditor at his Office at Chester.

And this Aston-Chappel was lately made a Parochial-Chappel in our days by the Grant of John Bridgeman Bishop of Chester, dated the sixteenth of April, 11 Car. 1. 1635. by the procurement of Sir Thomas Aston of Aston Baronet; and so it is now become a Parochial Chappel for Burial, Baptism, and other Rites, for these adjacent Villages,—

	The Mize.
	li.	s.	d.
Sutton	00	08	00
Aston juxtà Sutton	00	10	00
Middleton-Grange in Aston aforesaid	00	06	00
Aston-Grange	00	08	00
	01	12	00

Now followeth the Pedegree of this Ancient Family of Aston of Aston juxtà Sut∣ton, with all care and fidelity taken by me from the Evidences of this Family, and inserted in the Sumptuous Genealogy now in possession of Sir Willoughby Aston of Aston Baronet, 1671. wherein some more Descents are put down than I conceive can be warranted by the Deeds, and exact Computation of Times; from which I must crave leave to vary in some of the more Ancient Descents.

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Per Che∣veron, Sa∣ble and Argent.

I. Gilbert de Aston was Lord of Aston juxtà Sutton, and lived in the time of Henry the Second, King Ri∣chard the First, and part of King John at least. This I take to be clear out of Ancient Deeds. And he had Issue Richard, Son and Heir. This Gilbert probably was the Son of Richard de Aston, who re∣leased all his Right to Robert Abbot of Chester, in Villâ de Aston, which Thomas Son of Ernald some∣time held, about the Reign of Henry the Second. This was Middleton-Grange, as I take it.

II. Richard de Aston, by the Name of Richard de Aston, Son of Gilbert de Aston, gave unto Hugh Dutton of Dutton sex Bovatas Terrae in Aston, in the beginning of the Reign of Henry the Third, about 1230. for then lived Geffrey Son of Adam de Dutton, who is one of the Witnesses, Lib. C. fol. 155. q. which Lands belong now to the Demain of Dutton, 1671. wherein the Chappel of Poosey (now in decay) was situate within the Parish of Runcorne, and had its Name from the situation, being seated between the Park-Pool and the River; thence called Poosey-Chappel: For Ee, or Ey, signifies a Brook in the old Saxon Language. And so much of the Park of Dutton, lying from Poosey-Chappel towards Aston, with the little Fields above lying up to Aston-Town-Field, I take to be the Lands here granted to Dutton.

The same Richard also, by the Name of Ricardus de Aston, Filius Gilberti de Aston gave unto the Priory of Norton a certain place called Hendley (or Endley) which is now belonging to the Demain of Norton, and known by the Name of Endley-Wood. Lib. B. pag. 200. num. 8.

He gave also to Randle, Son of Richard de Kingsley, one Oxgange of Land in Aston, which John Lacy Constable of Cheshire, and Baron of Halton, confirmed; and was af∣terwards given to Hugh de Camera, by the Daughters and Heirs of Richard de Kingsley; and Hugh de Camera gave the same to Adam le Turner of Frodsham, as appears by Sir Willoughby Aston's Deeds.

This Richard had a Wife called Joan, and had Issue Richard Son and Heir.

III. Richard Aston of Aston, Son and Heir of Richard, had Issue Richard, and Robert; which Robert had Issue Richard, to whom Sir Robert Dutton of Mere in Staffordshire gave a Parcel of Land in Radward, in the Fee of Mere and Aston in Staffordshire; to wit, that Land which the said Richard, Son of Robert, formerly held: The Original in the possession of Sir Willoughby Aston of Aston juxtà Sutton, in Cheshire, Baronet, 1671.

I find also one Simon de Aston, who married Agnes, one of the Daughters and Co∣heirs of Adam Hatton of Hatton, nigh Daresbery in Cheshire, living 1290. Lib. C. fol. 4. which may fall out for the time to be a younger Son of this Richard Aston; but I can∣not certainly affirm it.

This Richard Aston of Aston is said to marry Maude, Daughter of William, Son of Herberd de Walton; and had Issue, Richard Son and Heir, and Margery, married to Wil∣liam Son of Hugh de Frodsham.

IV. Richard Aston of Aston, Son and Heir of Richard Aston, gave to his Brother

Robert two Oxganges of Land in Aston; one whereof Domina Johanna quondàm tenuit, Mrs. Joane formerly held. This Deed was made tempore Edwardi Primi; and this Joane seems to be a Gentlewoman, probably the Wife of Richard Son of Gilbert de Aston aforesaid.

This Richard Aston married Rose, the fourth and youngest Daughter, and after Co∣heir of Roger Throssell of Maxfièld in Cheshire, in the Reign of King Edward the First; and had Issue Richard Aston Son and Heir, and Hugh Prior of Birkenhed-Abby in Wir∣ral-Hundred.

Rose was Widow, and living 18 Edw. 3. Placita apud Cestriam, 18 Edw. 3. in Vigiliâ Beatae Mariae.

V. Richard Aston of Aston, Son and Heir of Richard, married Anabilla Daughter of Eva de Rode, and Sister to William Rode of Rode in Cheshire, in the Reign of Edward the Second: The Chartulary of Aston-Deeds, pag. 2. and had Issue Robert Aston, living 7 Edw. 3. but then very young: Thomas, another Son, living also 7 Edw. 3. and Mar∣gery* 37.12 a Daughter, married to William Son of William Walensis de Halton, id est, Son of William the Welshman of Halton.

I find among Sir Willoughby Aston's Deeds, Num. 78. a Record under the Seals of 24. Persons, dated the fourth of July, Anno Domini 1354. 29 Edw. 3. which Persons are all named in the Deed of Record, and witnessing, That Sir Richard Aston of Aston Knight, Hugh and Richard Sons to the said Sir Richard, and also Sir Robert of Aston Knight, Father of Richard Aston now Lord of Aston, were possessed of a certain Cor∣rody in the Abby of Norton; so as each of them should have, and have had by them∣selves, for finding a Yeoman, a Page, three Horses, a Brace of Grey-hounds, and a Goshawke, according to their Estate, with their Chambers, and such Easment that belongeth to their Degree: Whereunto the Priors and Abbots of the said Monaste∣ry in all their time (considering the great Possessions given out of the Lordship of Aston to the said House) were consenting, granting, and yielding, as for their Right of old time granted and had.

VI. Sir Robert Aston of Aston Knight, Son and Heir of Richard Aston, married Felice Daughter of John Hawarden Citizen of Chester, about 1338. and had Issue Richard Aston Son and Heir, Hugh second Son, Lawrence, and James living 49 Edw. 3.

By the French Deed, Num. 57. it appears, That Richard Aston, Lord of Aston, did Covenant with John Hawarden Citizen of Chester, That Robert, Son of the said Richard, should take to Wife Felice, Daughter of the said John; and if Robert die be∣fore Marriage, then Thomas, another Son of the said Richard, should have her to Wife; with other Covenants, in case Robert should die before he attained unto fourteen Years of Age, or Matrimony had. Dated 7 Edw. 3. So that Robert was then very young.

This Sir Robert was dead before 29 Edw. 3. as appears by the Record aforesaid, dated 29 Edw. 3. and had Issue Richard Aston Lord of Aston, living 29 Edw. 3.

VII. Richard Aston of Aston, Son and Heir of Sir Robert, was Lord of Aston 29 Ed. 3. who died without Issue about 42 or 43 Edw. 3. or sooner.

And the Right Line now failing, the Estate came to Sir Richard Aston,* 37.13 Son of Robert Aston of Ringey in Aston, Son of Hugh Aston, Brother and Heir to Richard who died without Issue. It appears by the Testimony of Robin Hocan, 5 Hen. 5. 1417. then aged 70 Years, [Deed Num, 121.] That he knew Robin of Aston, Son and Heir of Hugh, to be married by Hugh his Father to Fillote Daughter of Black John Hawarden, at that time Steward of Hawarden; and that Robin and Fillote were Enfeoffed of a par∣cel of Land called Ringey, and had Issue Sir Richard Aston, and other Children; and afterwards Robin died in Spain in the life-time of Hugh his Father. This Hugh had to Wife Cicely, afterwards married to Hoknell; and Hugh married Richard his Grandson, Son of Robert Aston of Ringey, unto Jonet Daughter of John Hoknell of Hurley, and had Issue: but Jonet, and all her Children, and Fillote Mother of Richard, died all of

the Pestilence at Ringey; and after Sir Richard Aston married Ellen Daughter of Geffrey Dutton; and that Hocan knew Sir Richard Aston occupying the whole Mannor of Aston for forty Years and more, and Sir Robert his Son occupying it for seven Years and more.

* 37.14VIII. Sir Richard Aston of Aston Knight, (Son and Heir of Robert Aston of Ringey in Aston,* 37.15 Son of Hugh of Aston) married Jonet Daughter of John Hoknell of Huxley, and had divers Children by her, who died all of the Plague at Ringey, with their Mo∣ther also: Afterwards Sir Richard married Ellen Daughter and Heir of Geffrey Dutton, 9. Rich. 2. (which Geffrey was third Son of Sir Hugh Dutton of Dutton) by whom he had Lands in Listark and Halton. Ibidem, pag. 5. g. & pag. 8. a. 22 Rich. 2.

By Ellen he had Issue, Robert, Son and Heir; Henry, living 10 Hen. 5. Elianour married Richard Priestland of Priestland; Elizabeth married Thomas, Son of Thomas Boydell of Gaterich in Gropenhall, in Bucklow-Hundred, 17 Rich. 2. but had no Issue by him: After she married Robert Massy of Hale, 21 Rich. 2. And lastly she married Thomas Danyel of Over-Tabley, in the same Hundred of Bucklow; and she died 11 Hen. 4. 1410. Lib. C. fol. 283. g. & fol. 281. f.

This Sir Richard was Treasurer to Queen Philip, Wife of Edward the Third, of her Lands and Rents in Ambrage in Wales, 32 Edw. 3. and Steward of Hopesdale. He was a Soldier in Spain, 12 Rich. 2. and Steward of Halton, 10 Hen. 4.

Ellen, Wife of Sir Richard, after his death married John Rycroft.

IX. Sir Robert Aston of Aston Knight, Son and Heir of Sir Richard, married Isabel Daughter and Heir of John Beeston of _____ _____ and had Issue Richard Son and Heir, David Aston, living 23 Hen. 6. and Alice Wife of John Massy of Sale in this Hundred, 24 Hen. 6.

Sir Robert died 5 Hen 5. 1417. Afterwards Isabel his Widow married John Caring∣ton of Carington in this Hundred, 9 Hen. 5. He was afterwards Sir John Carington Knight. Isabel had the Wardship of Richard Aston her Son, pag. 7. c.

X. Sir Richard Aston of Aston Knight, Son and Heir of Sir Robert, married Maude Daughter and Heir of Peter Massy of Horton in Cheshire, by Margaret his Wife, Daugh∣ter and Heir of William de Horton, 9 Hen. 5. This Peter Massy was younger Son of Ri∣chard Massy of Rixton in Lancashire, Esq

Sir Richard had Issue by Maude, Thomas Aston, Son and Heir; John, second Son, living 7 Edw. 4. Geffrey Aston, third Son, living 19 Hen. 7. William, fourth Son, died without Issue 20 Hen. 7. Maude, married to John Done of Flax-yoards in Cheshire; Joan, Wife of Roger Dutton, afterwards Heir to all Dutton-Lands; which Joan, after the death of Roger, married Sir Richard Strangewaies: and Margery, another Daughter, married John Wood of Sutton, 2 Hen. 7.

Sir Richard died 8 Hen. 7. 1492.

XI. Thomas Aston of Aston Esquire, Son and Heir of Sir Richard, married Margaret, one of the Daughters of Sir Thomas Dutton of Dutton in this Hundred, 7 Edw. 4. 1467. She afterwards became a Co-heir to Dutton-Lands, and had Kekwick and Aston-Mon∣drem to her share.

This Thomas died in the Life-time of Sir Richard his Father, about 1484. Marga∣ret his Widow afterwards married Raufe Vernon of Haslington in Cheshire, Esq

XII. Richard Aston of Aston Esq Son and Heir of Thomas, married Dowse, Daugh∣ter of Piers Warburton of Arley in this Hundred, Esq 1 Rich. 3. 1484. and had Issue Thomas, Son and Heir; Richard, a Priest, 26 Hen. 8. Robert Aston of Grange in Staf∣fordshire; John Aston of Grange, fourth Son; Katharine, Wife of Richard Broughton of Broughton in Staffordshire; Alice married Randle, Son and Heir of Randle Manwaringe of Karincham in Cheshire, Esq 23 Hen. 7. and Anne married to William Massy of Rixton in Lancashire, Esq 10 Hen. 8. This Richard Aston died 20 Hen. 8. 1529.

XIII. Thomas Aston of Aston Esquire, Son and Heir of Richard, married Bridget, one of the Daughters of John Harewell, and Sister and Co-heir to Thomas Harewell of Shotery in Warwickshire, 4 Hen. 8. 1512. and had Issue, John, Son and Heir; Richard; Peter, third Son, 38 Hen. 8. who had a Bastard called Thomas Aston, then living at London; William, fourth Son, married Anne Daughter of Thomas Ireland of the Hutt in Lancashire, Esquire, and had Issue; and Francis, fifth Son.

He had also a Bastard son called Roger, afterwards Sir Roger Aston, Gentleman of the Bedchamber to King James, who marred Mary Stewart Daughter to Alexander Lord Oghiltrey, being lineally descended from Duncan Earl of Lenox in Scotland; by whom he had Issue, Margaret, married to Sir Gilbert Houghton of Houghton-Tower in Lancashire, Baronet; Mary, married to Sir Samuel Peyton of Knowlton in Kent, Baronet; Elizabeth, Wife of Sir Robert Winkfield or Upton in Northamptonshire; and Anne, Wife of Sir Thomas Perient of Colchester in Essex: These were his four Daughters and Heirs. Afterwards Sir Roger Aston had to Wife Cordelia Sister to the Earl of Chesterfield, but had no Issue by her.

Thomas Aston of Aston was Sheriff of Cheshire 1551. 4 Edw. 6. and died 6 Edw. 6.

XIV. John Aston of Aston Esquire, Son and Heir of Thomas, married Margaret Daughter of Thomas Ireland of the Hutt in Lancashire, Esquire, 38 Hen. 8. 1546. and had Issue, Thomas, Son and Heir; John, a Lawyer, died without Issue; Edward, ano∣ther Son, died without Issue; Brigit, married Thomas Bunbury of Stanney in Cheshire, Esquire; Elizabeth, Wife of John Massy of Coughow, younger Brother to George Massy of Podington, Esquire, and afterwards Heir to his Brother; Margaret, Wife of Tho∣mas Egerton of Walgreve, after of Sir Edward Tirrel of Thornton in Buckinghamshire; Mary, died without Issue; Elianour married James Whitlok; Winifrid, Wife of Peter Derby near Leverpool in Lancashire; Ellen, Wife of George Manwaring of Ightfield in Shropshire, Gentleman, a younger Brother; Ursula, Wife of Geffrey Holcroft of Hurst in Lancashire; also Richard, a Bastard-son, who lived at Rock-Savage, and died at Hal∣ton 1616.

This John exchanged certain Lands in Whitley with Richard Starky of Stretton Esq for Lands in Aston, 1 Elizabethae: He died 5 Augusti, 15 Eliz. 1573.

Margaret his Widow married Hugh Beeston of Torperley in Cheshire, Esq 27 Eliz.

XV. Sir Thomas Aston of Aston, Son and Heir of John, was Knighted 1603. and married Elizabeth Daughter of Sir Arthur Manwaring of Ightfield in Shropshire, 11 Eliz. 1569. and had Issue, John, Son and Heir; Sir Arthur Aston of Fulham in Middlesex, second Son, who had Issue Richard Aston, and Sir Arthur Aston a Colonel in Germany, and Governor of Oxford for the King, 1644. but was barbarously killed after at Tre∣dagh in Ireland, having surrendred the Town to the Parliament-Rebels upon Condi∣tions, 1655. and had Issue: Sir Thomas Aston, third Son of this Sir Thomas, married Elizabeth Daughter of John Shugborough of Burdenbury in Warwickshire, Esquire, and had Issue: Frances, eldest Daughter of Sir Thomas Aston of Aston, married John Hock∣nell of Hocknell in Cheshire, after to Richard Davys of Croughton, and thirdly to Owen Longford of Burton in Denbighshire; Grace, second Daughter, died without Issue; Margaret, third Daughter, married Sir Thomas Ireland, who bought Beusy nigh Warring∣ton in Lancashire, and was Vice-Chamberlain of Chester; Elizabeth, another Daugh∣ter, married Richard Dod of Cloverley in Shropshire; Mary, Wife of Richard Brown of Upton nigh Chester, Gentleman; after to Jaques Arnodio, a Frenchman; Anne, another Daughter, married Richard Allen of Green-Hill in Nether-Whitley in Cheshire, Gentle∣man; Katharine, another Daughter, married Peter Legh of Ridge nigh Maxfield, Gen∣tleman.

Sir Thomas had a second Wife, called Mary, Daughter of William Unton of Draiton in Shropshire; but had no Issue by her.

This Sir Thomas was Sheriff of Cheshire, 1601. 43 Eliz. and died Anno Dom. 1613.

Mary his Widow afterwards Married Edward Paler of York Esquire.

Sir Thomas bought Lands in Aston from John Witter of Torperley, and Margaret his Wife, 20 Eliz. 1578.

XVI. John Aston of Aston Esquire, Son and Heir of Sir Thomas, was Sewer to Queen Anne, Wife of King James, and Married Maude, Daughter of Robert Nedham of Shenton in Shropshire Esquire, Anno Domini 1611. and had Issue Thomas, Son and Heir; John Aston, second Son, died unmarried 1648. Robert, third Son, died young: Maude Married Thomas Parsons of Cubbington in Warwickshire Esquire; after to John Shugborough, now of Upton in Wirrall 1666. a younger Son of the Shugboroughs in War∣wickstire. Anne, another Daughter, died young. Elizabeth, another Daughter, died unmarried 1628.

This John Aston of Aston died 13 Maii 16••5. 13 Jacobi.

XVII. Sir Thomas Aston of Aston Baronet, Son and Heir of John; Married Magda∣lene, Daughter of Sir John Poultney, and Sister and Coheir to John Poultney of Misterton in Leycestershire Esquire, 1627. by whom he had Issue Robert, who died young 1634. and Thomas, who died 1637. at the age of six years; and two Daughters, Jane and Elizabeth, who died Infants, as appears by the Monument in Aston Chappel.

Magdalene his first Wife dying* 37.16 1635. he afterwards Married Anne, Daughter and sole Heir of Sir Henry Willoughby of Risley in Derbyshire Baronet 1639. by whom he had Issue Sir Willoughby Aston now living 1666. who Married Mary, Daughter of John Offley, late of Madeley in Staffordshire Esquire, and also two Daughters, Magdalene and Mary, both living 1666.

This Sir Thomas was made Baronet in July, 4 Car. 1. 1628. and was Sheriff of Cheshire Anno Domini 1635. He died in the time of the late War between the King and his rebellious Parliament. He was Loyal to his Prince, and was unfortunately beaten by Sir VVilliam Brereton of Honford's Party of Rebels near to Nantwich, Janu∣ary 28. 1642. but Sir Thomas escaped and got away; after he was taken at another Skirmish in Staffordshire, and brought Prisoner to Stafford; where endeavoring to make an Escape, a Soldier espying him, gave him a Blow on the Head, with which, and his other Wounds, he fell into a Feaver, whereon he died at Stafford not long after, to wit, 24 Martii 1645. and was buried at his own Chappel of Aston in Cheshire: which Chappel he procured to be Consecrated by John Bridgeman Bishop of Chester, Anno Domini 1637. with liberty of Baptism and Burial, and repaired the Chancel thereof very handsomly, though much defaced afterwards in the late War.

Aston-Grange.

IT seems to me, that Roger Fitz-Alured was possessed of Aston-Grange in the Reign of Henry the Second. See Monasticon Anglicanum, Pars 2. pag. 186. which was held of the ancient Barons of Halton, and was afterwards given to the Priory of Norton.

But after the dissolution of Monasteries in England by Hen. 8. Richard Brooke Esq purchased this Village from the King, together with the Mannor of Norton and other Lands, 37 Hen. 8. 1545. and hath since been enjoyed by his Posterity unto this present 1666. there being no Charterer at all within the same.

Aston juxta Great Budworth.

THis Town of Aston juxta Budworth, was held of the Earl of Chester by William Fitz-Nigell Baron of Halton, in the Reign of William the Conqueror, and one Pa∣gan then held it under the said William, scilicèt sub Anno Domini 1086. This appears by the Record of Dooms-day Book; and at this day it is within the Fee of Halton.

John, Constable of Cheshire, and Baron of Halton,* 37.17 gave the Mannor of Hield in this Aston, unto Methroso Punterlinge in the Reign of Henry the Second, rendring yearly a Welsh Lance on the Feast-day of St. Bartholomew. M. num. 1. Afterwards Geffrey, Son of Adam de Dutton, (Ancestor to Warburton of Arley) buyeth the same from one Hugh the Welsh Deacon, Son of Hugh del Hield, for twenty four Marks of Silver, in the Reign of Henry the Third, and gave it to Agnes de Dutton his Daughter. M. num. 2. & num. 5, 6.

But after, towards the latter end of Henry the Third, Robert de Denbigh and Marga∣ret his Wife purchase it again from Geffrey, Son of Geffrey, Son of Adam de Dutton, for three Marks of Silver, and a Wich-house in Northwich. I. num. 91. which Margaret was Daughter of the said Geffrey, Son of Geffrey: but Robert Denbigh dying without Is∣sue, the said Margaret his Widow Married Nicholas de Leycester, about 1276. afterwards Sir Nicholas Leycester Knight, unto whose Issue it remained, till John Leycester of Tabley sold it again unto William del Heild and Goditha his Wife, and to the Heirs of the Body of the said William, reserving the yearly Rent of forty Shillings, Anno Domini 1355. 29 E. 3. M. num. 14. & num. 13.

And afterwards it became to be divided by the two Daughters and Coheirs of Wil∣liam del Heild, Margaret and Emme; M. num. 16. and so this Land of Heild continued to their Heirs, until the one Moiety thereof was purchased again by Thomas Leycester of Tabley Esquire, Anno Domini 1500. M. num. 19. and the other Moiety was purchased by Dorothy Leycester Widow, from Richard Sutton of Sutton nigh Maxfield Esquire, Son of Francis Sutton, Anno Domini 1601. 43. Elizabethae. M. num. 60. So that the whole is now reverted again to Leycester.

There is also another Place in this Aston, called The Mannor of Wethale, which the aforesaid Geffrey, Son of Geffrey, Son of Adam de Dutton, gave unto Margaret his Daugh∣ter aforesaid, and to her Heirs, with all Commons and Easements of the Town of Aston: Et Sciedum est, quòd ipsa Margareta, & Haeredes sui, & Homines eorum qui mane∣bunt in Wethale, habebunt Housebote & Haybote, & sufficientèr ad ardendum & ad aedifi∣candum, de Bosco de Aston sinè visu Forestariorum praedicti Galfridi, & haeredum suorum: habebunt etiàm omnes Porcos suos proprios (ubicunquè fuerint nutriti) in eodem Bosco sinè Pan∣nagio, as the very words of the Deed do run. R. num. 3. At which time also he gave her the Town of Nether-Tabley by another Deed; and this about the latter end of the Reign of Henry the Third: for in these Ages Gentlemen used to give a large propor∣tion of Lands with their Daughters in Marriage, rather than a small Sum of Money, Land being then but of little value: All which Lands descended to her Heirs by Sir Nicholas Leycester. And Peter Dutton, Son of the said Geffrey, released all his Right in Nether-Tabley, Wethale and Heild, unto Roger Leycester, Son of Sir Nicholas, Anno Dom. 1296. 24 Edw. 1. I. num. 6. and do now remain in possession of Sir Peter Leycester of Tabley Baronet, and his Tenants, at this day 1669.

The Mannors of VVethale and Heild in Aston juxta Budworth do contain about a third part of the Town of Aston, the Demaine Land of Arley being taken out and excepted.

All the rest of this Town hath been enjoyed by the Ancestors of the VVarburtons of Arley, from the time of Adam de Dutton aforesaid, even to this present, save onely the Lands granted away by them unto the Predecessors of these Charterers following —and now, 1666. in possession of—

• 1. The Widow Garstid of Chester, called Litley Lands, formerly belonging to Hayes of Litley, and was possessed by Adam, Son of William de Litley, Anno Domini 1335.
• 2. Daniel of Tabley hath two small Tenements in Aston.
• 3. Raufe Vernon of Aston, called Wethale Farm.
• 4. Gerard of Wimbles-Trafford, late Picton's Land.
• 5. Philip Antrobus of Over-Pever, one small Tenement in Aston.
• 6. Berry's Tenement in Aston, which formerly was the Inheritance of Sneyd of Bradwell, and sold by William Sneyd unto Gawen Legh of Northwood, younger Son

• of Matthew Legh of Swineyard in High-Legh, 35 Hen. 8. afterwards Richard Legh of Northwood sold it to Peter Leycester of Tabley Esquire, 1633. and lastly Sir Peter Leycester of Tabley sold it to his Servant Thomas Jackson of Heild, 1 Apri∣lis 1669. 21 Car. 2.

In this Aston is situated the Hall of Arley, now the chief Mansion-house of the Warburtons of Arley; which House was built by Piers Warburton of Arley Esquire, who died 10 Hen. 7. 1495. wherein of late a Ground-Room hath been converted into a Chappel. But see more in Budworth of the ancient Places of Habitation of War∣burton.

In the Feodary of Halton, about the beginning of Edward the Third, we read thus,—

Galfridus Warburton

Johannes Fitton tenet Villas de Budworth, & Aston juxtà Budworth, ter∣tiam partem de Tabley Superiori, & duas bovatas Terrae in Tabley Inferiori, & bovatam Terrae in quartâ parte de Comberbach, & unam bovatam Terrae in manu Prioris de Norton in Budworth, & totam Terram de Lythe ultrà Dee juxtà Cestriam, pro uno Feodo Militis & pro Relevio.	l.	s.	d.
05	00	00

Where Geffrey Warburton is put over the Head, as then Tenant to the Baron of Halton for those Services when this Feodary was made: the other possibly as it stood in former Rentalls.

Here should follow the Descent of Warburton of Arley; but Sir George Warburton de∣nied me the perusal of his Evidences, so as it could not exactly be performed; where∣fore I have omitted the same.

Baggiley.

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Or, three Lozenges Azure.

IN the Conqueror's time, Gislebertus & Ranulfus & Hamo, held Sunderland and Baggiley; which at the coming in of the Normans were held by Edward, and Suga, and Udeman, and Pat, for four Mannors, and were Gentlemen, Wasta est Tota. So the Record of Dooms-day.

The three first named, I take to be Gilbert Venables Baron of Kinderton; Ranulfus, supposed to be the An∣cestor of the Manwarings; and Hamon Massy Baron of Dunham-Massy. Sunderland is Locus cognitus within the Town of Dunham-Massy.

About the Reign of King John, Hamon Massy (then Lord of Dunham-Massy, and Descended from the other Hamon before named) gave unto Matthew de Bromhale, Bromhale, Duckenfield, and two parts of Baggiley, which the Father of the said Matthew held of the said Hamon, as his Inheritance in Knights Service, to him and his Heirs: Faciendo praedicto Hamoni & Haeredibus suis liberum Ser∣vitium Feodi unius Loricae; Quitting all other Service de aratro & hosterio* 37.18, & Segibus secandis, Feu† 37.19 Colligendo, & Homagio faciendo de Averiis, & de Pannagio, & Salicher* 37.20, & de omnibus aliis consuetudinibus,—&c. Lib. C. fol. 258. c. as I had it from Mr. Ver∣non's Notes.

Certain it is, that this Town gave Name to the Family of the Baggileys, who were Seated here.

Sir VVilliam Baggiley was Lord of Baggiley 13 Edw. 2. 1319. and John Baggiley his Son made a Feofment of the Mannor of Baggiley in Cheshire, and of his Mannors of Hyde and Leveshulme in Lancashire, unto Sir John Legh of Booths nigh Knotsford, Cove∣nanting that Sir John shall Settle them on the said John Baggiley and the Heirs Males of his Body; and for default of such, then to Settle the Mannor of Hyde on Sir John Hyde and his Heirs; and to Settle the Mannors of Baggiley and Leveshulme upon Wil∣liam, John, and Geffrey, Sons of the said Sir John Legh, and to the Heirs Males of their Bodies, in order one after another; the remainder to Thomas, Son of Richard Massy; then to John, Son of Robert Legh; then to William, Son of Piers Legh; then to Robert, Son of Robert Massy of Kelsall. Lib. C. fol. 270 a. The Original in French, now remain∣ing with Edward Legh of Baggiley Esquire, 1666. a fair Seal with Sir John Legh's Coat of Arms, to wit, a Bend over two Bars; the other Seal is demolished, to wit, Baggiley's Coat, three Lozenges, with a Bear's Head for the Crest. There is no Date put to the Deed; but Sir John Legh did Settle them accordingly, with the Services of all the Freeholders in Baggiley, to wit, Richard Son of VVilliam, Richard Hod, Robert Son of VVilliam, and Hamon Son of Edwin the VVise, Dated Anno Domini 1353. 28 Edw. 3. Lib. C. fol. 271. num. 1. John Baggiley died about 1356.

There are now, 1666. four Charterers in Baggiley:

• 1. Geffrey Cartwright Gentleman.
• 2. Widow Tarvin.
• 3. VVilliam Gibben.
• 4. Thomas VVorseley of Hale habet certas Terras in Baggiley.

Now followeth the Pedegree of the Leghs of Baggiley.

I. SIr William Legh of Baggiley Knight (Son of Sir

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Azure, two Bars Ar, a Bend Sa∣ble.

John Legh of Boothes nigh Knotsford, by Isabell his second Wife, Daughter of Sir William Baggiley, and Sister and Coheir of John Baggiley of Baggiley) Married Joane, Daughter of William Manwaring of Over-Pever the elder, 33 Edw. 3. 1359. at which time he was un∣der Age, and Joane but five years old. Lib. B. p. 11. x. The Original Penès Manwaring of Pever, 1666. but it seems she lived not to have any Children by him, at least that survived.

And afterwards he Married Joyce, the Widow of Sir Raufe Davenport of Davenport in Cheshire: for I find Sir William Legh of Baggiley and Joyce his Wife, Lea∣sed to Piers de Legh* 37.21 and John his Brother, for six years, all the Office of the Serjeanty of the Hundred of Max∣field, which appertained to the said Joyce during the Nonage or Minority of Raufe Da∣venport, Son and Heir of Sir Raufe Davenport late deceased, rendring to the said Sir William and Joyce twelve Marks yearly. Dated at Maxfield on All-Saints-day, 9 Rich. 2. 1385. Lib. A. fol. 150. l. the Original Penès Legh of Baggiley, 1665.

By which Joyce Sir William Legh had Issue Thomas Legh, Son and Heir, aged eigh∣teen years, 21 Julii, 4 Hen. 4. 1403. on which day the said Sir William Legh died. [Obiit 1403] Lib. A. fol. 152. k. Lawrence, another Son of Sir VVilliam, living 28 Hen. 6. Lib. A. fol. 150. I.

Joyce, the Widow of Sir VVilliam, Married Sir John Kighley, 7 Hen. 4. living also 11 Hen. 4. 1410. Lib. A. fol. 151. w.

* 37.22II. Thomas Legh of Baggiley, Son and Heir of Sir William, married Elizabeth Daugh∣ter of _____ _____ and had Issue, William, eldest Son; Richard, Ni∣cholas, Thomas, Geffrey, John, and James; all living 1 Hen. 6. 1423. Lib. A. fol. 151. r. x. Also Katharine, a Daughter, married John Ashley of Ashley in Bowdon Parish, from whom she was divorced 1432. 11 Hen. 6. And Margaret married Thomas Hyde of Urmeston in Lancashire, [Obiit 1456] living 7 Hen. 6.

This Thomas died about 34 Hen. 6. 1456. Lib. A. fol. 150. P.

III. William Legh, Son and Heir of Thomas, married Alice Daughter of _____ _____ and had Issue Edmund Legh Son and Heir.

[Obiit 1437] This William died in the Life-time of Thomas his Father, about 16 Hen. 6. For Alice his Widow I find married to Thomas Duncalfe, 17 Hen. 6. Lib. A. fol. 151. S.

IV. Edmund Legh of Baggiley Esquire, 35 Hen. 6. Son and Heir of William, mar∣ried Margery Daughter of John Savage of Clifton, 1442. 21 Hen. 6. The Dispensation for their Marriage bears date 5 die Novembris, 1442. Lib. C. fol. 271. e. by whom he had Issue, John, Son and Heir; Richard, second Son, Lib. A. fol. 150. q. & f. I find in John Booth of Tamlowe his Book of Pedegrees, That this Edmund had also another Son, called Randle, who was never married; but had three Bastard-sons, Randle Legh, begot on the Daughter of Carington of Carington; Henry Legh, begotten of Woodrofe's Widow in Darbyshire; and Nicholas Legh another Bastard-son. Edmund had also ano∣ther Son, Hamlet Legh, who married the Lady Hillyard; and Dorothy, a Daughter, the third Wife of Sir John Stanley of Elford in Staffordshire.

[Obiit 1475] This Edmund Legh of Baggiley died about 15 Edw. 4. 1475. For Margery his Wi∣dow married Thomas Leycester of Nether-Tabley Esquire, 17 Edw. 4. Anno Domini 1477. Lib. C. fol. 271. d. She was the second Wife of Thomas Leycester.

V. Sir John Legh of Baggiley Knight, Son and Heir of Edmund and Margery, mar∣ried Ellen Daughter of Sir William Booth of Dunham-Massy, 6 Edw. 4. 1466. Lib. A. fol. 151. y. Whereby it appears, That this John Legh was then under 16 Years of Age; and had Issue, William, Henry, Richard, Hamon, Raufe, Peter, Blanch, Katharine, and Jane. Lib. A. fol. 150. f.

Indeed VVilliam Legh, eldest Son of Sir John, married Maude Daughter of VVilliam Davenport of Bromhall in Maxfield Hundred, 7 Hen. 7. 1491. Lib. A. fol. 151. a. but he dying without Issue, in the Life-time of Sir John his Father, Maude afterwards married VVilliam Tatton Gentleman, Lib. A. fol. 150. f. and so Henry became Heir. VVilliam was dead 20 Hen. 7,

After the death of Ellen, Sir John Legh married Jane Daughter of Hugh Calveley of Lea in Cheshire, Esquire, near Eaton-boat, 21 Hen. 7. 1505. Lib. A. fol. 150 d.

This Sir John Legh had also a Bastard-son, called John Legh, living 21 Hen. 7. on whom Sir John setled a Tenement in Leveshulme in Lancashire, as an Annuity for his Life. Lib. A. fol. 141. b.

VI. Henry Legh of Baggiley Esquire, second Son, and Heir to Sir John his Father, married Jane Daughter of Thomas Massy of Podington in Cheshire, Esquire, 20 Hen. 7. 1504. Lib. A. fol. 150. e. and had Issue John, Son and Heir.

John, Son and Heir of Henry, married Margaret Daughter of Otes Reddish of Reddish in Lancashire, Esquire, 1 Hen. 8. 1509. Lib. A. fol. 150. f. and had Issue, Frances, mar∣ried to Raufe Arderne of Harden in Maxfield Hundred: She had her Portion paid her by Richard Legh her Great-Uncle, third Son of Sir John Legh, and next Heir-male. Lib. A. fol. 152. h. 3 Edw. 6. 1549.

John Legh, Son of Henry, died about 24 Hen. 8.

VII. Richard Legh of Baggiley Esquire, third Son of Sir John, and Brother and next Heir-male to Henry Legh, was Lord of Baggiley 3 Edw. 6. 1549. He married Eli∣zabeth Daughter of Arnold Ryle, and had Issue Edward Legh, and eight Daughters: Katharine married William Brigge of Brigge-Hall, 32 Hen. 8. Jane married Charles Booth; Alice married Roger Legh; Ellen married Robert Ryle de Bottoms; Margaret married John Torkinton of Torkinton; Cicely, another Daughter; Isabel died a Child; Elizabeth married Gilbert Bibby of Salford.

This Richard Legh died 4 Edw. 6. 1550.

VIII. Edward Legh of Baggiley Esquire, Son and Heir of Richard, married Jane Daughter of Sir Vrian Brereton de Honford nigh Wimslawe, from whom he was Divor∣ced; and after he married Margaret Daughter of Robert Vaw of Riddings in Timperley, Gentleman; and had Issue, Richard Legh, Son and Heir; and Edward, who died with∣out Issue. [Obiit 1607]

Edward Legh Esquire died May 12. 1607.

IX. Richard Legh of Baggiley Esquire, Son and Heir of Edward, married Mary Daughter of William Glasier of Lea, Vice-Chamberlain of Chester, and had Issue, Henry, Edward, Richard, Thomas, George, VVilliam, Hugh, John, and Robert; also Anne married Daniel Baker Fellow of Manchester-College, and Parson of Ashton supèr Mersey; Mary, Elizabeth; Townesend married John Davenport Clerk, second Son to Sir VVilliam Davenport of Bromhall; and Jane an Infant.

Of these, Edward and Robert married in Ireland. [Obiit 1621]

This Richard Legh of Baggiley was Buried at Norden, March 27. 1641.

X. Henry Legh of Baggiley Esquire, Son and Heir of Richard, married Rebecca Daughter of Sir George Clive of Huxley in Cheshire, Knight; and had Issue Richard, Henry, Edward, Thomas, William, and Raufe; also Susan married Nicolas Walker of Ash∣ton under Lyme; Mary, Katharine, Elizabeth, Frances married to John Chorleton of Man∣chester, Margaret, and another Elizabeth: But none of these Daughters had any Issue. [Obiit 1634]

This Henry was Buried at Bowdon, March 20. 1634.

XI. Richard Legh of Baggiley Esquire, Son and Heir of Henry, married Brigit Daugh∣ter of Sir Edward Harrington of Fidlington in Rutlandshire, Baronet; but had no Issue.

This Richard Legh died without Issue, and was Buried at Bowdon, August 10. 1642. [Obiit 1642] leaving his Brother Edward to succeed.

Brigit his Widow afterwards married Sir John Gore of Gilston in Hartfordshire; and now she hath married Sir Thomas Tirrell of Castle-Thorp in Buckinghamshire.

XII. Edward Legh of Baggiley Esquire, Brother and Heir to the last Richard; mar∣ried Elinour Daughter of William Tatton of Witthensu, Esquire, nigh Baggiley; and by her had Issue, Edward, Henry, Anne, Christian, and Rebecca; but onely Christian is now surviving, 1666. who married Raufe Wilbraham, younger Brother to Sir Thomas Wil∣braham of Woodhey in Cheshire, Baronet, Anno Domini 1667.

This Edward Legh the Father is yet surviving, and married to his second Wife Mary Daughter of William Jones of Sanford in Shropshire, late Counsellor at Law, Anno Domini 1665. and hath Issue Mary, born 1666. Sophia, another Daughter, born 1667.

Barnton.

IN the Conqueror's Time one Mundret held Bertintune of the Earl of Chester, which one Dunninge held before; and also one Ulviet held Bertintune, which one Levenot held formerly: so we read in Doomesday-Book. By which I understand, Mundret held one Moiety of Barnton, and Ulviet the other half; unless the one of these should be meant for Barterton.

William, Son of Henry, Son of Serlo, grants to Hugh Dutton of Dutton in this Hun∣dred, half the Town of Berthinton, which Robert de Meisnilwarin [or Manwaringe] held of the said William, rendring yearly a Pair of White Gloves on the day of the Nati∣vity of St. John Baptist: For which Grant Hugh Dutton gave unto him three Marks of Silver in pleno Comitatu Cestriae: And this was in the Reign of King John, Philip Orreby being then Judge of Chester. Lib. C. fol. 155. I. The Original among the Evidences of Dutton of Dutton, 1666.

But Dutton of Dutton was Lord of all Barnton in the time of King Edward the First; for in the Office of Sir Hugh Dutton, taken at Frodsham, 22 Edw. 1. he is found to die seised of two Shillings Chief-Rent yearly from Randle de Berthinton, for the one Moi∣ety of Barnton; and also of other two Shillings yearly Rent from Geffrey Starkey, for the other Moiety of Barnton. Lib. C. fol. 156. bb. Which Office is enrolled in the Leiger-Book of Vale-Royal Abby, fol. 45. b. now in possession of Thomas Merbury of Merbury nigh Great-Budworth, Esquire, 1666. a Copy whereof also remains among the Evidences of Dutton of Dutton.

At this day, 1666. this small Village is mangled into several Parcels, now in pos∣session of these Persons following.—

• 1. Stanley of Alderley hath one Tenement here, in Lease to John Basnet.
• 2. Thomas Merbury of Merbury hath another Parcel.
• 3. John Starkey of Huntrode in Lancashire hath three Tenements here in Lease, and half of Christopher Basnets Tenement.
• 4. Christopher Basnet, and Joseph his Son, have the one moiety of their Tenement in Fee-farm.
• 5. Sir Edward Moseley of Howes-end in Lancashire, Baronet, lately deceased, one Te∣nement, Leased to Robert Litler.
• 6. Sir Thomas Smith of Hatherton in Cheshire, a Parcel sold lately to Joseph Basnet.
• 7. Hugh Lownds of Odrode hath another Parcel.
• 8. Thomas Frith of Barnton, a good Farm.
• 9. Pawnall of Barnton, a good Farm.
• 10. Thomas Vernon of Barnton, another small Parcel.
• 11. Legh of Swineyard in High-Legh, Gentleman, a good Farm. This was part of Starkey's moiety.
• 12. Randle Wrench, and John his Son, a small Parcel Fee-farm Land.

Barterton.

* 37.23THis small Town of Barterton lieth between Dutton and Little-Legh: It is in Old Deeds written Bertrinton.

Sir Hugh Dutton of Dutton bought half of Barterton from John Son of Richard de Cursun, in the Reign of Edward the First. Lib. C. fol. 155. k.

In the Roll of the Ancient Chartes, called Doomesday, anciently remaining among the Records at Chester, but now lost and taken away, it was found,—Leuca, quae fuit Uxor Ranulfi de Kingsley, veniens in pleno Comitatu Cestriae coràm Radulfo de Manwaringe tùnc Justiciario Cestriae, & Baronibus, &c. quietum clamavit Ricardo de Kingsley totam

Villam de Bertherton, undè dotata fuit. So that in the Reign of Richard the First, it seems Kingsley of Kingsley was possessed of all the Village of Barterton.

One fourth part of the Township, Margery, one of the Daughters and Heirs of Richard de Kingsley, gave unto Richard her Son, in her Widowhood, whom she had by Hugh de Cholmondley her Husband; which descended unto her out of her Fathers In∣heritance: Lib. C. fol. 155. kk. This was in the Reign of Henry the Third. And this fourth part Sir Hugh Dutton of Dutton bought of Hugh Lord of Cholmondley, about 13 Edw. 1. 1285. these being Witnesses; Domino Rogero Priore de Norton, Domino Vri∣ano de Sancto-Petro, Domino Willielmo de Venables, Domino Ricardo de Massy, Nicolao de Leycester tùnc Ballivo de Halton, Roberto Grosso-venatore tunc Vice-comite Cestershiriae, Ale∣xandro de Baumvyle, Ranulpho Starkey. Lib. C. fol. 155. l. Twenty Marks he gave for the Purchase.

William Lancelyn being Lord of one other fourth part, as descended from another Co-heir of Kingsley of Kingsley, sells the Royalty thereof to the said Sir Hugh Dut∣ton, in the Reign of Edward the First, in these words,—Scilicet totum Dominium suum quartae partis Villae de Berterton; videlicèt partem Willielmi filii Willielmi de Berterton, cùm Homagiis, Wardis, &c. Pro hâc Donatione dedit dictus Hugo tresdecem Marcas Argenti prae manibus. Lib. C. fol. 155. ll. And after Sir Hugh and his Heirs bought out several Par∣cels, as they lay scattered in several hands, and so made this Town entirely their own.

One Tenement in Barterton, late in possession of one Bradburne, was purchased not long since from Crosby of Over-Whitley by John Dutton of Dutton Esquire, in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth. It formerly belonged to one Judson, 18 Edw. 4. Richard Judson gave it to Robert Coltstansock of Cogshull, 1 Rich. 3. and Peter Colstan soke sold it to Hugh Crosby of Great Budworth, 8 die Augusti, 3 & 4 Phil. & Mar. whereunto Sir Thomas Ve∣nables of Kinderton released all his Right 7 Elizabethae, as appears by the Deeds now in possession of Robert Pickering of Thelwall Lawyer, 1666. And Crosby sold it unto Dutton.

And so this Town of Barterton is now wholly belonging to the Heir of Dutton of Dutton, not having any Charterer therein, Anno Domini 1666.

Bexton.

THis Town of Bexton lieth between Sudlowe and Toft: It is a very small Hamlet, but 2 s. 9 d. in the Mize-Book; in the very Corner-point whereof, towards Plumley, four Townships do all meet in an Angle, to wit, Bexton, Toft, Plumley, and Nether-Tabley.

I believe this Town was Waste in the Conqueror's time;* 37.24 I find little mention there∣of before Henry the Third; about that time Robert de Bexton seems to be possessed of a moiety thereof at least: for he and Sibill his Wife, by the consent of Matthew de Bex∣ton their Son and Heir, do give to Randle Son of Thomas de Picmere, with Margery their Daughter, totam quartam partem medietatis totius Villae de Bexton: Reddendo annuatìm unum Denarium Argenti ad Nativitatem Beati Johannis Baptistae- Lib. C. fol. 240. e.

John, Son of Matthew de Bexton, releaseth to Adam de Tabley, and Beatrix his Wife, all the Lands which Maude, Mother of the said John, held in Dower in Bexton, under Edward the Second: Whereunto another John de Bexton is Witness. Lib. C. fol. 241. f.

Adam de Tabley was Lord of half of Bexton, 1304. as appears by the Agreement made inter Johannem de Lostocke Dominum medietatis Villae de Bexton ex unâ parte, & Ada∣mum de Tabley Dominum medietatis ejusdem Villae ex alterâ; supèr Clausturas bladorum suo∣rum de Bexton: Datum apud Knotsford, Anno Domini 1304. Lib. C. fol. 241. h.

And then Adam de Tabley, Son of the other Adam, settles his Dominium Parcenarium de Bexton after his death on Thomas Son of Thomas Daniell, 35 Edw. 3. 1361. Lib. C. fol. 241. k.

Since which time, the moiety of Bexton hath belonged to the Daniels of Over-Tabley,

even to this present 1666. Concerning this Adam de Tabley, see more in Over-Tabley

In a loose Paper among the Evidences of Daniell of Over-Tabley, I find a Copy of a Deed, wherein John de Bexton gives Ricardo filio Johannis de Croxton, & Margeriae Uxori ejus filiae meae, tertiam partem totius medietatis Villae de Bexton, excepto Capitali Messuagio: Habendum sibi & Haeredibus inter eos—Remanere Hawisiae & Elianorae Filiis meis—remanere rectis Haeredibus meis—Testibus Willielmo de Massy, Johanne de Legh Militibus, Rogero de Leycester, &c. Sub Edw. 3.

Memorandum, Quòd praedicta Hawisia nupta fuit Willielmo de Moulton: Et Elinora nupta fuit Willielmo Filio Roberti de Winnington.

This Memorandum was writ in the bottom of the Paper. Lib. C. fol. 244. p.

This John Bexton I take to be the same with John Lostock above-named; and called Bexton, from the Place of his Residence.

I find also, John de Bexton gave to William Son of Robert de Winnington, and to Elia∣nour his Wife, totam tertiam partem totius medietatis Villae de Bexton, tempore Edw. 2. John Booth's Book, Lib. H. pag. 117. h. The Original penès Leycester of Toft.

And Hugh Toft of Toft grants to Sir Hugh Venables of Kinderton, all his Land in Kinderton apud Rushford, and a place of Land in Sproston—in exchange pro sextâ parte Manerii de Bexton, 24 Edw. 3. 1350. Lib. C. fol. 226. l. Penès Leycester of Toft.

In an ancient Feodary of Halton, we read,—Johannes de Bexton tenet medietatem Villae de Bexton pro vicesimâ parte unius Feodi Militis. And over the head of John de Bexton, are writ, Thomas Daniel, Raufe Hulse, and Thomas Croxton: These last (as I con∣ceive) as the Present Tenants about Henry the Sixth's time, when that Rental was re∣newed; the other, as he stood in former Records of Edw. 1. or Edw. 2. Lib. C. fol. 86.

Thomas Holford of Holford held Land in Bexton, of the Baron of Halton, in Knight-Service, as appears by his Office 12 Eliz. a small Parcel.

So Robert Bromfield of Witton died seised of Land in Bexton, held of the Barony of Halton in Knight-Service, by Office taken 12 Eliz. but this Land was sold afterwards by Bromfield to the Lady Mary Cholmondley of Holford, who gave it to Hugh Cholmondley her younger Son.

Sir Randle Manwaring of Over-Pever had Land in Bexton and Baggiley, found by Of∣fice, Anno 5 & 6 Phil. & Mar. to be held of Edward Legh of Baggiley by Fealty, and rendring a Red Rose yearly.

Sir Raufe Leycester of Toft had Land in Bexton and Plumley, found by Office 14 Eliz. to be held of the Honour of Halton.

Paver of Northwich had a Messuage in Bexton, found by Office 5 Eliz. to be held of the Barony of Halton; and so Anne Pavers Office, 40 Eliz.

Thomas Winnington of Ermitage nigh Holmes-Chappel had Land in Bexton, found to be held of John Croxton by Office 34 Eliz. a small Parcel.

William Croxton of Ravenscroft died seised of the third part of the Mannor of Bexton, found to be held of Halton by the third part of the twentieth part of a Knights Fee, by Office taken 32 Eliz. and John Croxton's Office, 41 Eliz. tenuit medietatem totius Villae de Bexton.

But Croxton's Land in Bexton was sold to the Lady Mary Cholmondley of Holford afore∣said, who gave those purchased Lands in Bexton to her younger Son Hugh Cholmond∣ley, whose Son and Heir Robert afterwards became Heir to all Cholmondley-Lands, and is now Lord Viscount Kelles in the County of Meth in Ireland, and living 1666.

So that now, Anno Domini 1666. the Town of Bexton is possessed by these Per∣sons following.

• 1. Robert Lord Cholmondley, Lord of the moiety of Bexton: He hath about 70 Cheshire Acres in possession of his Tenants there, who pay one Shilling Chief to Halton yearly.
• 2. Thomas Daniell of Over-Tabley. Esquire, Lord of the other moiety of Bexton: He hath about 65 Acres in possession of him and his Tenants there.
• ...

• 3. George Leycester of Toft, one Tenement in Bexton, in possession of William High∣field, about 20 Acres.
• 4. Thomas Deane of Nether-Pever, one Tenement, in possession of George Swinton, about 30 Acres. This formerly belonged to one Hulse of Middle-wich* 37.25, and payeth a Chief to Cholmondley, and also to Halton.
• 5. Thomas Cholmondeley of Holford Esquire, a small Cottage, about four Acres, in possession of Hugh Woodward his Tenant. This anciently belonged to Holford, before the Lady Mary Cholmondley purchased any Lands in Bexton.

Bollinton.

THis Town hath its Name from the River of Bollin, which runneth along after the side thereof: It is not mentioned in the Record of Doomsday-book; so that it seems to be Waste in the time of the Conqueror.

Hamon de Massy, Baron of Dunham-Massy, gave unto Geffrey Dutton, Son of Geffrey Dutton, all his Land in Bolinton, to wit, all the moiety of Bolinton, with Agnes his Daughter, in Free-marriage; Rendring yearly a Pair of Gilded Spurs, at the Nativity of St. John Baptist: About the beginning of Henry the Third, Lib. C. fol. 150. a.

The same Agnes in her Widowhood, by the name of Agnes de Nechel (perhaps meant for Etchells) late Wife of Sir Geffrey de Chedle, gave unto her eldest Son Geffrey de Chedle, all that Land of Bolinton which she had of the Gift of Hamon Massy her Fa∣ther: Lib. C. fol. 150. b. William de Massy being then Parson of Rosthorne, and William de Baggiley Parson of Chedill, under Henry the Third.

Hereby it appeareth, That one moiety of Bolinton was of the Fee of the Barons of Dunham-Massy; and also that these Duttons assumed the Sir-name of Chedill.

21 Edw. 3. Henry Clayton of Thelwall had this moiety. In another old Rental of Dunham-Massy, dated 3 Hen. 4. Henricus Ratcliffe (he was Brother of Sir John Ratcliffe. See Lib. C. fol. 262. g.) ut de jure Uxoris suae tenet medietatem Villae de Bolinton in Socagio, reddendo in Termino Johannis Baptistae unum Par Calcarium deauratorum, vel octo decem Denarios. Lib. B. pag. 209.

And Robert Ratcliffe Earl of Sussex selleth all his Land in Bollinton and Thelwall unto John Carington of Carington Esquire: Dated 15 of August, 28 Hen. 8. 1536. The Original among the Lord Delamere's Evidences at Dunham-Massy.

And lastly, Sir George Booth of Dunham-Massy married Jane sole Daughter and Heir of John Carington of Carington, about the end of Queen Elizabeth's Reign; whose Grand-son George Lord Delamere of Dunham-Massy is now possessed of this moiety of Bollinton, Anno Lomini 1666.

The other moiety of Bollinton is held of the Barony of Kinderton.

One half of this moiety Robert de Marâ (that is, Mere of Mere) gave to Richard Son of Gilbert de Quike, and to Robert Son of Hugh de Ditton, in the Reign of Henry the Third, Lib. C. fol. 208. q. rendring three Shillings yearly: Whereunto are Wit∣nesses, Robert Chaplaine of Rosthorne, Alan of Tatton, Gilbert of Bolinton, Robert of Tab∣ley, (that is, Over-Tabley) William his Brother, and another William de eadem Villâ, and others. The Original among the Evidences of John Mere of Mere, Anno Christi 1650.

Adam Filius Roberti Juvenis de Ditton releaseth all his Right in Bollinton to Richard Son of Gilbert de la Quike: Lib. C. fol. 206. a.

Afterwards Thomas le Eyr de Bolinton grants this fourth part to William Mere de Mere Domino suo, for twenty Pound: Sub Edw. 1. Lib. C. fol. 210. n.

William Mere of Mere Esquire sells it to James Brampton of Toynton next to Horn-castle in Lincolnshire, for 350 l. 42 Eliz. Lib. C. fol. 250. f. And James Brampton of Legborne in Lincolnshire sells it to Sir George Booth of Dunham-Massy for 450 l. 45 Eliz. 26 Novembris. Lib. C. fol. 250. g.

So that the Lord Delamere hath now three parts of the four of the Village of Bollinton.* 37.26

The other fourth part of Bolinton, Robert de Marâ the elder gave to Gilbert de Boling∣ton, to be held by the eighth part of half a Knights Fee; because the said Gilbert had resigned it up in plenâ Curiâ Roberti, about King John's time. Lib. C. fol. 206. b.

This fourth Part now Legh of Booths hath.

Charterers in Bolinton, 1666.

• 1. Thomas Warburton of Partington hath one Cottage in Bolinton.
• 2. Sir George Warburton of Arley, Baronet, hath about two Acres in Bolinton, called Heskith-Acres, lying in Bolinton-Ees.
• 3. Edward Allen of Rosthorne hath one Meadow in Bolinton.

Bowdon.

THis Town of Bowdon takes its Name from our two old Saxon Words, [Bode] which is yet in use with us for a Dwelling or Habitation, and [Don, or Dun] which is as much as a Plain upon a rising Hill, for which we now use the word Down: So that Bodon signsfies as much as, A Town or Dwelling on the Downs: Unless perhaps we write it Boge-don (for so we find it anciently written in Doomsday-book) and then it may denote a Down or Hill by a Bog; at the side whereof, towards Ashley, lieth a great deep Bog.

Hamon de Massy, the first Baron of Dunham-Massy, held this Town of Bodon in the Conqueror's time, under Hugh Lupus then Earl of Chester.

* 37.27Roger Massy of Hale, Son of Geffrey Massy, being possessed of one half of Bodon, sold all his Land in Bodon, to wit, totam medietatem Villae de Bodon, unto Agatha de Massy, for 4 l. 7 s. 0 d. in Money, and two Robes, one for himself, and the other for his Wife: Rendring therefore yearly one Pound of Cummin-seed at the Feast of St. Martin: About the beginning of Henry the Third's Reign. Lib. C. fol. 252. I.

Which Agatha, by another Deed, styling her self Agatha de Theray, gave the same moiety of Bodon to Robert her younger Son, whom she made Heir thereof by consent of Sir Hamon de Massy her eldest Son. Lib. C. fol. 252. k.

Robert de Massy, by the consent of his Wife and Heirs, gave unto Adam de Bowdon two Oxganges of Land in Bowdon; Rendring yearly one Penny upon the Altar of St. Mary of Bowdon, on the Nativity of St. Mary the Virgin (which is the eighth day of September) in perpetual Alms, for the Salvation of the Souls of the said Robert, his Wife, and Ancestors, and of his Heirs, and for the Soul of Matthew de Hale: Sub Hen∣rico tertio. Lib. C. fol. 252. h.

From which time there hath been a Family of Gentlemen of the Bowdons of Bow∣don, who had a fourth part of Bowdon, until Vrian Bowdon of Bowdon, 4 Junii, 7 Eli∣zabethae, sold to William Booth of Dunham-Massy Esquire, certain Parcels of Land in Bow∣don; nec non omnia Messuagia & Terras,—quae habet in Bodon, Hale, & Doneham. And 11 Elizabethae, Thomas Vawdrey of Bodon, and George his Son, sell to Hugh Crosby of Over-Whitley, several Parcels of Land in Bodon (which I conceive Bodon had past away to Vawdrey before) by two Deeds; one dated 25 Octobris, 11 Eliz. and the other dated 28 Junii, 11 Elizabethae. And Hugh Crosby of Over-Whitley sells all those his Lands in Bowdon unto Sir George Booth of Dunham-Massy, for 220 l. which then were in the seve∣ral Holdings of Thomas Vawdrey, Robert Mosse, Thomas Hardy, George Vawdrey, Thomas Nedle, and Alice Hardy Widow: Dated the 16 of April, 8 Jacobi, 1610. The Origi∣nals now in possession of the Lord Delamere of Dunham-Massy.

So that George Lord Delamere hath now one fourth part of Bowdon, 1666.

In the Rental of Dunham-Massy, 3 Hen. 4. Ricardus Massy de Rixton, & Johannes de Bodon, tenent medietatem Villae de Bodon per Servitium Militare, & reddendo per Annum 5 d. Lib. B. pag. 209.

Massy of Rixton's part came after to Holcroft, and (as I have heard) was lately sold

in the Reign of King James, by Sir Thomas Holcroft, unto William Brereton of Ashley Esquire, whose Heirs are now possessed of one other fourth part of Bodon, 1666.

The other moiety of Bodon was given by the Baron of Dunham-Massy to the Priory of Birkenhed in Wirral, about Edw. 1. And after the Dissolution of Abbeys by Hen. 8. it was given to the Bishoprick of Chester with the Church of Bowdon.

In this Town of Bowdon is seated the ancient Parish-Church of Bowdon, seated most pleasantly for Prospect and the Downs. There was a Church here in the Conqueror's time, ibì Presbyter & Ecclesia, cui pertinet dimidia hida, saith Doomsday-book: So that it seems to surmount the time of the Norman Conquest.

Hamon de Massy, Son and Heir of the fourth Hamon, gives to God, the Blessed Vir∣gin Mary, and St. James, and to the Prior and Convent of Birkenhed in Wirral, half an Acre in Dunham-Massy,—together with the Advowson of Bodon-Church, Anno Do∣mini 1278. For in that Year was Richard Massy Sheriff, who is one of the Witnesses. Monasticon Anglicanum, 1 Pars, pag. 484.

After the Dissolution of Abbies, Henry the Eighth erected a new Bishoprick at Chester, 33 Hen. 8. 1541. whereunto (among other things (he gave the Church of Bo∣don, and other Lands late belonging to the Priory of Birkenhed; So that this Church of Bodon hath now the Bishop of Chester for its Patron; and was Dedicated to St. Ma∣ry, as appears by the Deed above-mentioned, whose Wakes, or Dedication-Feast, was celebrated 8 Septembris, being the Nativity of St. Mary; and comprehendeth within its Parish these Villages,—

	The Mize.
	l.	s.	d.
Agden, one half	00	02	00
Bolinton, one half	00	03	00
Dunham-Massy	00	08	00
Bodon	00	10	00
Ashley	01	07	04
Hale	01	12	10
Altrincham	00	10	09
Timperley	00	10	09
Baggiley	00	16	00
Partington	00	06	08
Carington	00	10	09
Ashton supèr Mersey part, to wit, one half	00	07	00
Sum Total is	07	05	01

The Vicarage of Bodon is said to be worth 120 l. per Annum. Our common Pro∣verb is, Every Man is not born to be Vicar of Bodon. The true Reason of the Proverb I cannot affirm.

Charterers in Bodon, 1666.

• Henry Vawdrey of Baggiley.
• Thomas Upton of Prestbury, about five or six Acres; no House.
• Widow Tipping, a Cottage in possession of Margaret Birch Widow.

Budworth.

THis Town of Budworth hath its Name from the old Saxon words, [Bode] which signifies a Dwelling, and [Wurth] a Place by a Water; as it were, a Dwelling or Town by a Water: And so is this Town situated on a Hill near two large Meres, Picmere-Mere, and Budworth-Mere. It is called Great Budworth, in distinction from another

Budworth, called Little Budworth, in Edesbery Hundred; and hath a good Prospect on the South, but now a poor Village: and hath yearly two Fairs, one on Candlemas-day, 2 Februarii; the other on our Lady-day, 25 Martii: The Toll whereof belongeth to the King.

In the Reign of William the Conqueror, William Fitz-Nigell, Baron of Halton, held this Town of Hugh Earl of Chester; and one Pagan held it of the said William.

In the beginning of Henry the Third's Reign, Geffrey Son of Adam de Dutton was possessed of this Town (lineal Ancestor to Warburton of Arley, whose Posterity under Edward the Second assumed the Sir-name of Warburton, from the Place of their Resi∣dence at that time.) This Geffrey, Son of Adam, lived at this Town of Budworth: For in the Deed of the Purchase of Claterwigge, a Hamlet in Little Legh, by Sir Thomas Dutton of Dutton, one of the Witnesses subscribed was, —Sir Geffrey of Budworth, Son of Adam de Dutton. Lib. C. fol. 156. T. And I have seen him stiled Geffrey de Budworth in many other Deeds; and so was Geffrey his Son often so stiled, who lived there also. But Peter Dutton, Son of the later Geffrey, removing his Habitation unto Warburton towards the end of Edward the First, his Son Peter was stiled de Warburton, according to the manner of those Ages, under Edward the Second; from which time downwards his Posterity hath wholly retained the Sir-name of Warburton, even to this day: But his succeding Heirs afterwards, disliking the Seat at Warburton, either for the inunda∣tion of the Water, or for some other cause, removed their Seat to Arley in Aston, near to this Budworth, about the beginning of Henry the Seventh's Reign; which House of Arley was built by Peter Warburton Esquire, who died Anno Domini 1495. where they have ever since continued to this day, as their Chief Mansion-House. But to re∣turn.

Geffrey Son of Adam de Dutton above-mentioned (as I find in a Parchment Roll among the Evidences of Dutton) gave away the third part of this Budworth unto the Priory of Norton, in the Reign of Henry the Third, to pray for his Soul for evermore: But after the Dissolution of Abbies by Henry the Eighth, King Henry sold all the Lands in Great Budworth and Comberbache, which belonged to the late Priory of Nor∣ton, unto John Grimsdich of London, Gentleman: The Charter under the Broad Seal is dated at Westminster, 1 die Julii, 36 Hen. 8. 1544.

These Lands in Great Budworth thus bought by John Grimsdich, (to wit, the third part of Budworth) were part of them sold by John Grimsdich to John Eaton of Crow∣ley; and John Eaton sold them to Peter Leycester of Tabley, Esquire, 2 Edw. 6. 1548. whose Heirs enjoy the same at this present, 1666. Another part thereof was bought by Malbon of Budworth, sold lately to Oasley. Another part of them was bought by Hall of Browneslow in Budworth, whose Heirs enjoy the same at this day, and have the Cu∣stody of the King's Original Grant unto Grimsdich, of all these Lands aforesaid. Some small part thereof also one Potter had. The other two parts of Budworth aforesaid, do now belong to Warburton of Arley, 1666. the succeeding Issue of Geffrey Son of Adam de Dutton aforesaid; but he holdeth the same of the King, as Baron of Halton, Chief Lord of Great Budworth.

Here is a fair Parish-Church, Dedicated to God and all Saints; in Commemorati∣on whereof, our Wake is celebrated the first day of November, being All-Saints-day.

I suppose there was a Church here before the Norman Conquest; for I find in Doomsday-book,—Ibi Presbyter, & duo Villani, &c. and a Priest supposeth a Church; though, I confess, it is in other places of that Book usually said of such Towns as had Churches,—Ibì Presbyter & Ecclesia. The first Structure hereof undoubtedly was more rude than now it is; which after-Ages beautified with a more Sumptuous Building, as all other Churches have been.

I find on the left hand of the Steeple-door, on the out-side, as we enter therein, to∣wards the bottom of the Fabrick of the Steeple, these words engraven in the Stone, in an ancient Character, [Argille Egarde Vidua], and on the right hand of the said Steeple-door, opposite to that writing, [Wymincham]: Whereby it may seem, that the Widow Egard is commemorated as a special Benefactor in the Structure of that Steeple.

Just over the same Steeple-door, under the great Window, I find three Coats of Arms, (but are not of such Antiquity as the other engraved Words before-mentioned seem to be.) On the left Corner, over the Door, is Dutton of Dutton's Coat, viz. Quarterly, a Fret in the second and third Quarters. On the right-hand Corner, opposite thereunto, A Pale Fusils, which was the Coat of the Priory of Norton, and is found frequently in the Windows of Norton. And in the middle, between these two Coats of Arms, in a Flat is engraven, for Warbutton of Arley's Coat, A Cheveron between three Cormorants, (which is not Warburton's proper Coat); on the one side whereof is written [John], and on the other side, [Warburton Knight.]

The same three Coats are also above the great Window on the same West-side of the Steeple. Certainly the Fret in Dutton's Coat was not added before the Reign of Edward the Third. And the first Sir John Warburton of Arley was he who was one of the Knights of the Body to Henry the Seventh, and was Sheriff of Cheshire for his life, and died 15 Hen. 8. 1524. And therefore it should seem the Steeple was repair∣ed again not many Ages since, about the beginning of Hen. 8. or in the Reign of Hen. 7. at most.

Certain it is, That the Church of Great Budworth was given to the Priory of Norton, by William Constable of Cheshire, the younger, and Baron of Halton, in the Reign of Henry the First, about the end of his Reign, Lib. B. pag. 199. num. 1. which Roger de Lacy Constable of Cheshire afterwards confirmed. See Monast. Anglican. Pars 2. pag. 185.

And after the Dissolution of Abbies by Henry the Eighth, he gave the Rectories of Budworth and Runcorne unto Christ-Church-College in Oxford, by Special Grant, dated 11 die Decembris, 38 Hen. 8. 1546. So this Church of Great Budworth hath now the College of Christ-Church in Oxford for its Patron, and is now but a Vicarage, worth about 80 l. per Annum.

In this Church is yet the Case of a fair Organ, having the Coats of Arms of War∣burton of Arley, Leycester of Tabley, and Merbury of Merbury, carved thereon. These Organs (as Tradition hath it) came frem Norton, bought after the Dissolution of that Priory, and were in good Order, till the Pipes thereof were taken out and spoiled by the Parliament Soldiers in the late War, 1647. which some Scotchmen among them called—Whistles in a Box.

This Parish of Budworth is the largest Parish of Cheshire, next to that of Prestbury; and it comprehendeth these Villages following, besides the Parochial Chappelries of Witton and Nether-Pever, within the same.

	The Mize.
	li.	s.	d.
Nether-Tabley	00	12	00
Picmere	00	12	00
Wincham	00	12	00
Marston	00	10	00
Aston juxtà Budworth	00	16	00
Budworth	00	10	08
Comberbach	00	10	00
Merbury	00	04	00
Cogshull	00	08	00
Over-Whitley, cum Hamlettis	01	18	00
Nether-Whitley	00	16	00
Appleton & Hull	01	00	06
Stretton	00	10	00
Dutton	00	16	08
Barterton	00	05	00
Little Legh	00	15	00
Barnton	00	09	04
Anderton	00	10	08
Sum Total in the Mize	11	16	02

It will not be amiss if I touch here the Parochial Chappelries belonging to the Mother-Church of Budworth, although they be both situated in Northwich Hundred.

The one is called Witton-Chappel, dedicated to St. Hellen (the Mother of Constantine the Great, the Christian Emperor) Daughter of Coel the British King of Colchester, saith Huntington, pag. 306. But Malmesbury, pag. 7. calls her Stabularia, an Hostess that keeps an Inne or Victualling-house: whose Dedication-Feast is celebrated 18 die Augusti.

The Parochial-Chappel of Witton comprehendeth these Villages,—

		The Mize.
		l.	s.	d.
In Edesbery Hundred	Hartford	00	09	04
Winnington	00	04	08
Castle-Northwich	00	03	00
In Northwich Hundred	Northwich	01	13	07
Witton & Twambrooke	00	13	02
Lostock-Gralam	00	16	00
Hulse	00	07	02
Lache-Dennys	00	05	02
Birches	00	01	02
Some small part in Rudheath Lordship	00	06	08
		04	19	11

The other is the Parochial-Chappel of Nether-Pever, situated in Northwich Hun∣dred, and built by the Parishoners (the Principal whereof was Richard Grosvenour of Hulme of Allostocke) in the Reign of Henry the Third: It comprehendeth these Villages.

		The Mize.
		l.	s.	d.
In Northwich Hundred	Allostocke	00	17	07
Nether-Pever	00	09	07
In Bucklow Hundred	Little-Pever	00	09	04
Plumley	00	13	04
		02	09	10

The Chappel of Nether-Pever was Dedicated to St. Oswald, whose Wakes or Feast of Dedication was celebrated the fifth day of August. This Oswald was King of Nor∣thumberland, slain in Battel 5 Augusti, Anno Christi 642. at Oswaldstrey† 37.28 in Shropshire, by Penda the Pagan King of Mercia. Unto this Oswald,* 37.29 Bede, in his History of England, ascribeth many miraculous Stories; who for his Sanctity was Canonized for a Saint, and many Churches and Chappels were founded in Honour of him.

I find by a Deed dated Anno Gratiae 1269. That it was then agreed between the Pri∣or and Convent of Norton; on the one part; and Richard Grosvenour, and other Pa∣rishioners of Nether-Pever, on the other part: That the Prior of Norton should find them Capellanum Secularem missam Celebrantem in dictâ Capellâ, that is, a Secular Chap∣lain to say Divine Service, and Officiate in that Chappel every Sunday and Wednesday through the Year, and in the Feast-days of the Nativity of Christ, St. Stephen the Martyr, Circumcision, Epiphany, Purification, cùm suis Processionibus, Annunciation, Palm-Sunday,

Easter-day cum suis Processionibus, Whitsunday, Ascension-day, Nativity of St. John Baptist, Peter and Paul Apostles, die Sancti Oswaldi, in cujus honorem fundata est praedicta Capella, Assumption of Mary, and All-Saints-day; and to have liberty of Baptism, if they can obtain leave from the Mother-Church of Budworth, to be allowed by the Prior and Convent of Norton: Saving to the Mother-Church all Tythes, both great and small; And the Parishioners to find Books, Vestments, Vessels, and other Orna∣ments of the Church, at their own Costs. Lib. C. fol. 120. b. The Original Penès Shakerley of Houlme.

The Abbies being dissolved by Henry the Eighth, at this day nothing is allowed to the Minister of this Chappel, but what the Benevolence of the Parishioners will please to give.

In the Register Book of this Chappel it appears, That the Steeple of Nether-Pever Chappel was built of Stone Anno Domini 1582.* 37.30 John Bowdon being then Master of the Work. The two Out-Isles on either side of the Chappel have been enlarged by the Parishioners in late Ages.

Carington.

THis Town is not mentioned in Doomsday-book: It is of the Fee of the ancient Barons of Dunham-Massy, and gave name to the Family of the Caringtons, who were Lords thereof, and seated here very anciently.

In the Rental of Dunham-Massy, 3 Hen. 4. 1402. we read thus:—Georgius Caring∣ton Chivaler tenet Manerium suum de Carington, & medietatem Villae de Ashton, & tertiam partem Villae de Partington, pro duabus partibus Feodi Militis; ut per Chartam Antecessori∣bus dicti Georgii per Hamonem Massy Militem factam; & reddendo per Annum de Stuthe, aliàs dictum Sheriff-Tooth,—7^den.

The Family of the Caringtons of Carington flourished here for a long space, near 400 Years, until Sir George Booth of Dunham-Massy married Jane sole Daughter and Heir of John Carington of Carington Esquire, towards the end of Queen Elizabeths Reign; but had no Issue by her, yet enjoyed Carington's Lands, which after her death he recovered by a tedious Suit: Whose Grandson, George Booth Lord Delamere, is now possest of the whole Township of Carington entirely, 1666. there being no Charterer at all therein.

Clifton.

THis Town, or Place (for here is onely a Mannor-House, with the Demain-Lands thereof) hath its name from the Cliffs or broken Rocks therein.

It is now at this day commonly called Rock-Savage, since the structure of that sumptuous Building erected there by Sir John Savage, Anno Domini 1565. 7 Eliza∣bethae. The old Hall stood a little distance thence, the Remains whereof are now turned into a Granary, Stable, and other Houses of Office among the Out-houses; and by the Servants at this day called by the name of The Old Hall.

John Constable of Cheshire, and Baron of Halton, gave unto Galfrid or Geffrey de Dutton—scilicèt de Uxore desponsatâ, pro Homagio & Servitio suo, totam Villam de Clifton: Faciendo Servitium dimidii Feodi Militis ad Castellum meum de Halton: & nullam Wardam faciet ad Castrum Cestriae, nisi supèr Sumptum meum & Haeredum meorum. Lib. C. fol. 150. c. This was in the Reign of Henry the Second.

This Geffrey Dutton was younger Son of Hugh Dutton of Dutton; the Posterity of which Geffrey were also Lords of Chedle, who, for their Residence there, were sir-named

de Chedle, as the manner of those Ages was. At last the two Daughters and Co-heirs of Sir Roger de Chedle divided the whole Inheritance, 1 Edw. 3. 1327. Clemence the elder Daughter married William Son of Raufe Baggiley; she had Clifton, and divers Lands in Chedle and Hulme. Agnes the younger Daughter married Richard Son of Ro∣bert de Buckley; she had the Capital Messuage of Chedill, and the Advowson of the Church of Chedill, and divers Homages, Rents, and Services. Lib. C. fol. 150. l. Isa∣bel, the Daughter and Heir of Clemence, married Thomas Daniell of Bradley in Appleton, junior, afterwards Sir Thomas Daniell Knight; by whom he had onely one Daughter and Heir, called Margaret, married to John Savage about 49 Edw. 3. from whom the Savages of Clifton, continuing at this day, 1666. This Margaret carried away all her Mothers Lands; but her Fathers Lands went to the next Heir Male of the Daniells, in Old Deeds frequently written Danyers, and from whom the Daniels of Over-Tabley. See more of this in Over-Tabley.

Now followeth the Descent of the Savages of Clifton.

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

I. John Savage of Clifton, in Right of Margaret his Wife, Daughter and Heir of Sir Thomas Daniers of Bradley in Appleton, commonly called Daniel. Her Mothers Name was Isabel, Daughter and Heir of William Baggiley by Clemence his Wife, Daughter and Co-heir of Sir Roger de Chedill, Lord of Chedill and Clifton. Lib. C. fol. 150. l.

This Margaret Daniell, as I have told you before, had all her Mothers Lands; but her Fathers Lands were setled on the Heirs Males of the Daniels. She had three Husbands: The first was John Ratcliffe, 42 Edw. 3. who died without Issue by her not long after. Lib. C. fol. 229. v.

The second Husband of Margaret Daneil, was this John Savage, descended of the Savages of Steinesbie in Darbyshire* 37.31; whom he married about 49 Edw. 3. and had Issue by her John Savage Son and Heir, Elizabeth, and Blanch, all living 4 Hen. 4. Lib. C. fol. 290. d.

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

This John Savage of Clifton, the Father, died 10 Rich. 2. 1386. and Margaret his Widow after∣wards married Piers Legh of Maxfield (younger Son of Robert Legh of Adlington) in November, 1388. 12 Rich. 2. Lib. C. fol. 290. b. by whom she had Issue Piers Legh, from whom the Leghs of Lime in Maxfield Hundred; and John Legh, younger Son, Escheator of Cheshire 12, 13 Hen. 6. from whom the Leghs of Ridge nigh Maxfield. Lib. C. fol. 290. d. e. & 234. n.

But Margaret survived all her Husbands, and in her Widowhood she gave the moiety of Gropenhall to her Son Piers Legh, 4 Hen. 4. Lib. C. fol. 290. d. And to John Savage her Son, and to his Heirs, she gave Liberty of Bearing her Coat of Arms, which descended to her after the death of her Father, as I have seen the Copy of the Deed in French, dated 3 Hen. 5. the Original whereof is now among the Evidences of Thomas Earl Rivers, at Rock-Savage, 1669. Vide Lib. D.

pag. 175. q. And the Posterity of Savage bore Daniells Coat and Crest accordingly, to wit, Argent, a Pale Fusile Sable; the Crest, A Unicorns Head Couped Argent; until Sir John Savage of Clifton in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth took up Six Lions Sable for his own Proper Coat, and the Lions Paw Sable erected, for his Crest.

This Margaret Daniell died 6 Hen. 6. 1427.

II. Sir John Savage of Clifton Knight, 6 Hen. 5. Son and Heir of John, married Maude Daughter and Heir of Sir Robert Swinnarton, by whom he had the Mannor of Barrow; and had Issue, John Savage Son and Heir, William, Arnold, George, and Roger; also Margaret married John Dutton, second Son of Sir Piers Dutton of Dut∣ton, 6 Hen. 5. afterwards Heir to Sir Piers his Father, Lib. C. fol. 160. w. x. Maude mar∣ried Sir Thomas Booth of Barton in Lancashire.

He married Maude Swinnarton about the beginning of the Reign of Henry the Fourth: For in Annn 1409. 10 Hen. 4. I find them married, Lib. D. pag. 170. d. Whose Ancestor Sir Roger Swinnerton was made a Banneret by Edward the Third, to whom the King (in part of three hundred Pounds worth of Land, for the supporting of the State of a Banneret for his Life) had given all the Lands which belonged to Hugh le Dispenser Earl of Winchester in the Counties of Stafford and Chester;{fleur-de-lys} 37.32 and after by his Charter, dated at Nottingham, 16 Julii, 8 Edw. 3. 1334. Consideratione Praemissorum àc obtentu laudabilis obsequii quod idem Rogerus nobis indiès impendit, Concedimus quòd ipse habe∣at & retineat sibi & Haeredibus suis, Mannerium de Magnâ Ba∣row in Comitatu Cestriae, cùm pertinentiis; ac omnes terras in Villis de Rushton, Corneford, Austanfield, in Comitatu Staffordiae; quae fuerunt praefati Hugonis le Dispenser. He gave also Little Barrow to him and his Heirs, by another Charter dated at Westminster, 25 Septembris, 8 Edw. 3. Lib. D. pag. 169. b. And these were confirmed to Robert de Swynerton Consanguineo & Haeredi praedicti Rogeri, 13 Decembris, 2 Rich. 2. 1378. Which Sir Robert Swynerton Banneret died 12 Edw. 3. after whose death Ro∣bert Swynerton Clerk possessed the same, as Son and Heir; which Robert died Mense Junii, 23 Edw. 3. after whose death, Sir Thomas Swynerton Knight, as Brother and Heir of Robert, possessed the same Lands; which Sir Thomas died Mense Decembris 35 Edw. 3. after whose death, Sir Robert Swynerton his Son and Heir enjoyed them, and left them to this Maude his Daughter and Heir. Lib. D. pag. 178. d.

{fleur-de-lys} This Sir John Savage I find stiled Knight, [Obiit 1450] 4 Hen. 5. and he died primo die Au∣gusti, 28 Hen. 6. 1450. Lib. D. pag. 169. c. Probably he was Knighted at the Battel of Agincourt in France, 3 Hen. 5.

III. John Savage of Clifton Esquire, Son and Heir of Sir John, married _____ _____ and had Issue, John Savage Son and Heir; also Margery a Daughter married Edmund Legh of Baggiley in Cheshire, Esquire, 1442. 21 Hen. 6. which Edmund dying about 15 Edw. 4. she afterwards married Thomas Leycester of Ne∣ther-Tabley Esquire, 17 Edw. 4. 1477. Lib. C. fol. 271. d. e. to wit, the second Wife of Thomas: Margaret, another Daughter, married John Maxfeld; afterwards she married Randle Manwaring of Carincham, third Son of Randle Manwaring of Over-Pever Esquire.

Obiit iste Johannes Savage, 29 die Junii, [Obiit 1463] 3 Edw. 4. 1463. Aetate 53 annorum. Lib. D. pag. 169. c.

IV. Sir John Savage of Clifton, senior, Knight,* 37.33 17 Edw. 4. 1477. Lib. C. fol. 271. d. He married Catharine Daughter of Sir Thomas Stanley, after Lord Stanley, and Sister to Thomas Stanley Earl of Derby; by whom he had Issue Iohn Savage Son and Heir, Thomas Savage Bishop of Rochester 1492. thence translated to London 1497. thence to the Archbishoprick of York, 1501. and died 1508. his Body being buried at York,

and his Heart at Maxfield in Cheshire,* 37.34 where he built a Chappel at the side of Maxfield Church, and intended to have made a College there; Sir Homfrey Savage, another Son; Lawrence Savage, another Son; James Savage, another Son; Sir Edmund Sa∣vage, another Son, Knighted at Leith in Scotland, 36 Hen. 8. 1544. 11 die Maii, by the Earl of Hertford then General; so Stow: Which Edmund married Mary the Widow of Roger Legh del Ridge nigh Maxfield, and Daughter and Heir of William Sparke of Surrey 30 Hen. 8. 1538. Christopher Savage, another Son; William Savage, another Son; George, another Son; and Richard, another Son: Also Ellen Savage, a Daughter, married Peter Legh of Lyme in Cheshire, Anno Domini 1467. as appears by the Licence of Philip Sancti Laurentii in Lucina Presbyter Cardinalis, for their Marriage; datum Ro∣mae, 2 Idus Januarii, Anno quarto Papae Pauli Secundi, Lib. D. pag. 172. c. The Original now among the Evidences at Rock-Savage, 1669. Katharine, another Daughter, mar∣ried Thomas Legh of Adlington in Cheshire, Esq Anno Dom. 1479. as appears by the Li∣cence of John Giglis utriúsque Juris Doctor, Collector of the Popes Rents in England, dated at London 4 die Novembris, 1479. in the ninth Year of Pope Sixtus the Fourth: Lib. D. pag. 177. x. The Original among the Evidences at Rock-Savage also, Anno Domini 1669. Margaret married Edmund Trafford of Trafford in Lancashire: Alice married Roger de Pilkington of Lancashire; and Elizabeth married John Son of William Leeke of Langford in Darbyshire.

[Obiit 1495] * 37.35This Sir John Savage died 22 Novembris, 11 Hen. 7. 1495. & quòd Johannes Savage Armiger, Filius & Haeres Johannis Savage junioris Militis, est Consanguineus & ejus Hae∣res propinquior. Lib. D. pag. 179. k.

Sir John Savage of Clifton, junior, Knight, Son and Heir of Sir John Savage senior, had the Charge of the Left Wing at the Battel of Bosworth-field in Lecestershire, 3 Rich. 3. 22 die Augusti, 1485. in which Battel Richard the Third was slain: So Stow, and other Historians inform us. He was very instrumental, together with Thomas Lord Stanley his Uncle, afterwards made Earl of Darby, in the promoting of Henry the Seventh to the Crown, and in obtaining the Victory of Bosworth-field; for which Ser∣vice Henry the Seventh, per Literas suas Patentes, datas 7 die Martii, 1 Hen. 7. 1485. Memoriâ reducens diutina & laudabilia Servitia, nec non probitatem actúsque strenuos inti∣mi dilecti Militis nostri Johannis Savage junioris, quem, tàm in Armis quàm in Moribus & Consilio, florere dinoscebatur; qualitérque idem Johannes cùm multitudine Copiosâ suorum Fratrum, Consanguineorum, Servientium, Amicorum benevolorum, ad sua Grandia Co∣stus & Onera, Personaeque suae pericula Multimoda, in Servitio nostro in Conflictu & praelio contrà magnum Adversarium nostrum Ricardum tertium tùnc nupèr Regem Angliae praeten∣sum, caeterósque suos Complices & Fautores, qàm contrà alios Rebelles & Proditores nostros contrà nos hostilitèr Guerram levantes, &c. Concessimus eidem Johanni Castrum & Maneri∣um de Gresley & Kimbley in Comitatu Nottinghamiae—& Ekleston in Comitatu Derbiae, ac Mineram Carbonum, &c. quae fuerunt Johannis Domini Zouche—: Ac etiàm Maneria Elineton-Holmesfield in Comitatu Derbiae; & Maneria de Granby & Sutton in Comitatu Not∣tinghamiae,—& Manerium de Shepeshed in Comitatu Leycestriae, ac Maneria de Sutton-Huby∣bunderell, alias dictum Hobbadler, & Watton alias Wotton, Croston, Eudeburne, in Comitatu Salopiae; quae fuerunt Francisci Lovell Militis, nuper Vice-Comitis Lovell: Habenda prae∣dicto Johanni Savage, & Haeredibus Masculis de Corpore: Lib. D. pag. 171. v. The Ori∣ginal among the Evidences at Rock-Savage, Anno Domini 1669.

2 Ricardi 3. 1484. this Sir John Savage junior, and eight of his Brethren, were made Freemen of Chester, Sir John Savage the Elder being then Mayor: Vale-Royal of Eng∣land, pag. 188. The Brethren are there ranked in this order.

• 1. Sir John Savage junior.
• 2. James Savage.
• 3. Lawrence Savage.
• 4. Edward, for Edmund.
• 5. Christopher.
• 6. George.
• 7. William.
• 8. Richard.
• 9. Homfrey.

Sir John Savage junior married _____ _____ and had Issue John Savage, Son and Heir; Alice married Sir William Brereton of Brereton in Cheshire; Felicia married Robert Milward of Eaton in Derbyshire, Esquire; Ellen married John Hawarden; Maude married Sir Robert Nedham of Shenton in Shropshire.

This Sir John Savage was slain at the Siege of Boloigne in France, [Obiit 1492] 8 Hen. 7. 1492. in the Life-time of his Father. See Stow in eadem Anno. He was a Valiant Man, and an expert Soldier, and made Knight of the Garter by Henry the Seventh.

He had a Bastard-son, called George Savage, Parson of Davenham in Cheshire. This George had several Bastards, to wit, George Savage Priest, Chancellor of Chester; John Wimslow, Archdeacon of Middlesex, begot on one Wimslow's Daughter; Eliza∣beth married _____ _____ Clayton of Thelwall in Cheshire; she was begot also on Wimslow's Daughter: Randle Savage of The Lodge, begotten on the Daughter of one Dyes of Bar∣row in Cheshire; Margaret married _____ _____ Colstensoke of Over-Whitley; she was be∣got also on Dyes Daughter; Ellen married _____ _____ Hayes of Litley in Aston juxtà Pickmere; she was also begot on Dyes Daughter; Edmund Bonner, first Dean of Ley∣cester, and after twice Bishop of London, begotten on Elizabeth Frodshum, first married to one Edmund Bonner a Sawyer with Mr. Armingham, who begot other Children on her afterwards, and dwelt at Potters-Hanley in Worcestershire.

VI. Sir John Savage of Clifton Knight, Son and Heir of Sir John;* 37.36 was Knighted about 13 Hen. 7. and was Sheriff of Worcestershire 24 Years together, from the death of his Father. He was stiled Sir John Savage the Elder, 12 Hen. 8. He married Anne Daughter and Heir of Raufe Bostock of Bostock, in Davenham Parish, Esquire; and had Issue John Savage Son and Heir, Edward, George, Lawrence, Roger, and Thomas; Anne married to Henry Lord Barkley, about 1533. See Stow sub eodem Anno.

This Sir John died 2 Martii, 19 Hen. 8. 1527. and survived Anne his Wife. [Obiit 1527] She had a Brother called William, 22 Edw. 4. but he died, and she became sole Heir. Lib. D. pag. 178. f.

VII. Sir John Savage of Clifton Knight, stiled The Younger, 12 Hen. 8. Son and Heir of Sir John, married Elizabeth Daughter of Charles Somerset Earl of Worcester, and had Issue John Savage Son and Heir; Henry Savage, second Son; Margaret mar∣ried Sir Richard Buckley of Beaumorris in Wales; Mary married John Hamden of Hamden.

This Sir John Savage killed one John Pauncefote Esquire;* 37.37 whereupon he and his Father both were Indicted for Murther, and Arraigned in the King's Bench; this Sir John Savage the younger, as Principal; and Sir John Savage the Elder, as Accessary; who confessed the Fact: But upon mediation of Cardinal Wolsey, and Charles Earl of Worcester the King's Chamberlain, they were pardoned by the King, paying four thousand Mark••, and covenanting that they would not come into the Counties of Worcester or Chester during their Lives, without the King's Licence under his Great Seal, Privy Seal, or Privy Signet; as appears by the Indenture made the 24 day of November, 12 Hen. 8. 1520. Lib. D. pag. 179. I. The Original now remaining among the Evidences at Rock-Savage, 1669. But after, the King under his Great Seal, dated 12 Junii, 16 Hen. 8. 1524. gave liberty to this Sir John Savage the Younger to go, ride, or dwell in any Place either in Worcestershire or Cheshire. Lib. D. pag. 172. y.

This Sir John Savage died 27 Julii, 20 Hen. 8. 1528. aged 35 Years. [Obiit 1528] John Savage his Son and Heir was aged three Years and nine Months at the death of his Father aforesaid.

Elizabeth his Widow was living 23 Hen. 8. Lib. C. fol. 291. d. and afterwards married William Brereton of the Bedchamber to Hen. 8.* 37.38 Beheaded for Matters touching Queen Anne, 17 Maii, 1536. 28 Hen. 8. Stow. He was younger Son of Sir Randle Brereton of Malpas.

VIII. Sir John Savage of Clifton Knight, Son and Heir of Sir John, married Eli∣zabeth Daughter of Thomas Mannours Earl of Rutland, about 1 Edw. 6. 1547. by

whom he had five Sons, and five Daughters; John, born 1548. died an Infant; Ano∣ther John,* 37.39 born 1554. succeeded Heir; Thomas, born 1556. died young; Edward, born 1560. and Francis, born 1562. died young: Margaret, eldest Daughter, born 1549. married Sir William Brereton of Brereton in Cheshire, afterwards Baron of Laghlin in Ireland, who built the fine new House at Brereton: For Sir Lawrence Smith of Ather∣ton in Cheshire marrying Jane the Mother of this Sir William Brereton, they granted the

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Argent, Six Lions Rampant, Sable.

Body and Wardship of this William Brereton to this Sir John Savage, who thereupon married his Daugh∣ter Margaret to him, with a thousand Marks Portion; dated 24 Januarii, 4 Eliz. 1561. Lib D. pag. 178. e. Elizabeth, second Daughter, born 1552. married Thomas Langton Baron of Newton in Lancashire, 1580. who was divorced from Margaret Shirborne his Wife by Sentence of the Consistory at York, 25 Junii, 1580. because it was in impubertate dicti Thomae, nec pubertate adveniente per ipsum Thomam ratificatum, sed potiùs idem Matrimonium reclamantem: Lib. D. pag. 177. z. b. & pag. 173. d. Elinour, third Daughter, born 1557. married Sir Henry Bagnall, Son and Heir of Sir Nicholas Bagnall Knight, Marshal of the Queens Army for Ireland, 1577. one thousand Pound Portion: Lib. D. pag. 177. y. a. Afterwards she married Sir Sackvill Trever, Lib. D. pag. 178. g. Mary, fourth Daughter, born 1563. maried Sir Richard Milles in Hamshire: Frances, fifth Daughter, born 1567. married Thomas Wilkes in the County of Surrey Esquire.

Richard Bishop of Coventry and Lichfield granted to this Sir John Savage Knight, the Mannor of Tarvin; reserving the yearly Rent of 31 l. 00 s. 00 d. Datum 10 die Apri∣lis, 4 Edw. 6. 1550. Lib. D. pag. 171. r.

* 37.40This Sir John assumed for his own Proper Coat, Six Lions Sable; and, The Lions Paw Sable erected, for his Crest; now onely quartering Daniell's Coat therewith among others, which before was born as his Proper Coat. But the Vertuous Lady Elizabeth, Wife of this Sir John Savage, died at Frodsham die Martis, 8 die Augusti, 1570. 12 Elizabethae. Lib. D. pag. 180.

After whose death he married Elinour, Widow of Sir Richard Pexhull of Beaure∣pair in Southamptonshire, and Daughter of John Cotgreve, 14 Eliz. 1572. but had no Children by her. Lib. D. pag. 170. I. & pag. 174. o.

Which Elinour had given unto her, by the Will of Sir Richard Pexhull her former Husband, all his Lands in Bromley, Beaurepair, Stratfield-Say, Stratfield-Mortimer, Ter∣ges, Basingstoke, Chinham, Tadley, Pamber, Silchester, Sherborne-Monachorum, Sherborne St. John, Sherborne-Cowdray, Stovington, Dene, Bradley, and Berdenstock and Clack, Cowich, and Basing, in the Counties of Southampton and Wiltshire: Which Lands Sir John Savage setled on Edward his younger Son, and on his Heirs by Polyxena Daughter of William le Griz of London, Gentleman, and of Katharine his Wife, natural Sister of the said Dame Elinour, Lib. D. pag. 174. o. p. Which Edward had Issue, Sir John Sa∣vage of Beaurepair, 17 Jacobi, 1619. Lib. D. pag. 172. x.

* 37.41This Sir John Savage of Clifton built the new fair House at Clifton, Anno Domini 1565. 7 Elizabethae; which was afterwards called Rock-Savage. I find that he first writ himself of Rock-Savage, 17 Eliz. and so by little and little, sometimes of Clifton, and sometimes of Rock-Savage, to the 21 Eliz. But afterwards he constantly writ him∣self of Rock-Savage, which his Posterity have ever since retained.

The Old Hall stood a little distance thence, where now the Out-housing standeth; being now converted into a Granary, Sable, and other Places of Office.

He was Seriff of Cheshire seven times, 1560, 1565, 1570, 1573, 1574, 1579, and 1591. and three times Mayor of Chester, [Obiit 1597] 1569, 1574, and 1597. And he died in the last year of his Mayoralty, 40 Eliz. 5 Decembris, 1597. aged 73 Years; and was buried at Maxfield the twenty fourth day of January following.

IX. Sir John Savage of Rock-Savage, Son and Heir of Sir John, was created Baro∣net 9 Jacobi, 1611. and married Mary one of the Daughters and Coheirs of Richard Allington Esquire, deceased, about the 18 Eliz. 1575. Lib. D. pag. 169. a. & 170. f. and had Issue, John, aged three Years 1580. who died young; Thomas Savage, second Son, who succeeded Heir; John Savage, third Son; Richard, fourth Son; and Willi∣am, fifth Son: All which four Sons last mentioned, were living 42 Eliz. 1600. Lib. D. pag. 170. g. Also Elizabeth, a Daughter; married Thomas Manwaring, who then wait∣ed on this Sir John Savage her Father, younger Son of Manwaring of Martin-Sands nigh Over in Cheshire, and had Issue: Afterwards she married Sir Raufe Done of Duddon in Cheshire, descended from the Dones of Utkinton; also Grace Savage, another Daughter, married Sir Richard Wilbraham of Woodhey in Cheshire, made Baronet 5 Maii, 19 Jacobi, 1621. Which Grace survived her Husband, and died at Chester, Anno Domini 1662.

This Sir John Savage had a Bastard-son, called John Savage of Barrow.

Sir John was Mayor of Chester 1607. and Sheriff of Chester also the same Year. He was Buried at Maxfield on Fryday the 14 day of July, 1615. 13 Jacobi, [Obiit 1615] in the Night-time.

X. Sir Thomas Savage of Rock-Savage, Baronet, Son and Heir of Sir John, was Created Viscount Savage by King Charles the First, to wit, 6 die Novembris, 1626. 2 Car. 1.

Jane Sister and Heir to Sir William Cordell Master of the Rolls, and Lord of Long-Melford in Suffolk, gave by her Will to Sir Thomas Savage, Long Melford, with other Lands in Suffolk; Dated 15 Julii, 1602. She was Widow of Richard Allington, and Grandmother to Sir Thomas Savage.

He married Elizabeth Darcy, eldest Daughter and Co-heir of Thomas Lord Darcy* 37.42: The Covenants of their Marriage bears date 26 Martii, 44 Eliz. 1602. Lib. D. pag. 170. h. and had Issue, John Lord Savage, Son and Heir; Thomas Savage, second Son, married Brigit the Widow of Sir Edward Somerset, fifth Son of Edward Somerset Earl of Worcester, and Daughter and Heir of William Whitmore of Leighton in Wirrall, in the County of Chester, Esquire, by Margaret his Wife, Sister and Heir to Sir George Beeston of Beeston in Cheshire, and Daughter of Sir Hugh Beeston; from whom the Sa∣vages of Beeston now in Cheshire: Francis Savage, third Son; William, James, Richard, died all three without Issue: Charles Savage, seventh Son, now living 1666. and hath Issue: Also Jane, eldest Daughter, married John Pawlet Lord St. John, 1622. after Marquis of Winchester: Lib. D. pag. 180 m. Dorothy married the Lord Andover, Son and Heir of the Earl of Barkshire, Thomas Howard: Elizabeth, third Daughter, married Sir John Thimbelby of Lincolnshire: Anne, fourth Daughter, married Robert Brudenal of Stouton in Northamptonshire; after Created Earl of Cardigan, April 20. 1661. Ka∣tharine, now a Nun at Dunkirk, 1666. And Henrietta-Maria, sixth Daughter, married Raufe Sheldon of Beeley in Glocestershire, Esquire.

Thomas Viscount Savage was Chancellor of the Queens Court at Westminster 1634. and died at London; but was Buried at Maxfield in Cheshire, the sixteenth of December, [Obiit 1635] 1635. The Lady Mary Savage of Bostock-Hall, his Mother, was also Buried there the same day, as appears by the Register of Maxfield Church.

XI. John Lord Savage of Rock-Savage, Son and Heir of Thomas Lord Savage, was Created Earl Rivers in Right of his Mother, 1639.

There were certain Articles drawn for this John's Marriage with Anne Compton Daughter of William Earl of Northampton, 16 Julii, 1619. 17 Jacobi, Lib. D. pag. 177. w. but it did not take effect: And after he married Catharine Daughter of Wil∣liam Parker Lord Morley, and Lord Mounteagle, of Horneby-Castle in Lancashire, by whom he had Issue Thomas Savage, now Earl Rivers, 1666. John, second Son, living 1666. Richard, third Son, married Alice the Widow of John Barneston, of Churton, and Daughter and Heir of Thomas Trofford of Bridge-Trofford in Cheshire, and had Issue

by her a Son called John Savage, living 1666. But Alice had Issue by both her Hus∣bands, and she died 1666. Also Elizabeth, eldest Daughter of John Earl Rivers, mar∣ried William Lord Peters: Jane married the Lord Chandoz, by whom she had two Daughters; after she married Sir William Sidley, but had no Issue by him; and third∣ly, she married George Pits of Stratfordsey in Hampshire, Esquire, and by him had Issue: Mary, fourth Daughter, married Henry Killigrew Groom of the Bedchamber to James Duke of York; Frances, another Daughter, died young; Catharine, third Daughter, married Sir Charles Sidley, Brother to Sir William.

John Earl Rivers, after the death of his first Lady, married Mary Ogle, formerly Waiting-woman to his Mother; by whom he had Issue Peter Savage, who onely sur∣vived, and is now living, 1666.

[Obiit 1654] This John Earl Rivers sold Long Melford in Suffolk: And he died at his House in Frodsham, commonly called Frodsham-Castle, the tenth day of October, 1654. And that very Night was the same House by Accident of Fire burned. He was Buried at Maxfield, among his Ancestors, in his Chappel at the side of the Church there: But since, the Roof of the said Chappel fell down; but is now repaired, 1669.

Cogshull.

RIchard de Vernon, Baron of Shibrok, held one half of Cogshull in the Conqueror's time, and Pagan held it of Richard. Formerly, before the Conquest, Levenot and Dedor held the same for two Mannors: Liberi homines fuerunt.

The other half of Cogshull one Randle held in the Conqueror's Reign, supposed to be the Ancestor of the Manwarings; and before the Conquest one Ulviet held the same, & liber homo fuit.

In the Reign of Edward the First, Hugh de Durholme was possessed of all the Ham∣let of Cogshull, who gave it to Henry Lacy Earl of Lincoln and Constable of Cheshire,—scilicèt totam Villam suam de Cogshull, cùm omnibus pertinentiis: Couchir-Book in the Dut∣chy-Office at Grays-Inn, Tom. 1. Comitatus Cestriae, num. 12. fol. 43.

—Henricus de Lacy Comes Lincolniae, & Constabularius Cestriae, salutem in Domino sempiternam. Noverit universitas vestra nos dedisse—Hugoni Filio Hugonis de Clyderhou valetto nostro, totam terram—quam habuimus ex dono & Concessione Hugonis de Durreme quondàm Seneschalli nostri in Cestershiriâ, in Villâ & in Territorio de Cogshull—Faciendo indè Capitalibus Dominis feodi—Servitia omnia debita & consueta, &c. Testibus Domino Reginaldo de Grey tùnc Justiciario Cestriae, Dominis Willielmo de Venables, Radulfo de Ver∣non, Hamone de Massy, Hugone de Dutton, Ricardo de Massy, Militibus; Roberto de Grosve∣nour tùnc Vicecomite Cestershiriae, Alexandro de Baumvyle, Ranulpho Starkey, Johanne de Merbury, Ranulpho de Berthinton, & aliis. Datum apud Bertelay, nono die Novembris, 13 Edw. 1. [1285.] Couchir-Book in the Dutchy-Office, Tom. 1. Com. Cestriae, num. 7. fol. 42.

If Hugh had no Issue, then it was to revert to Henry Lacy and his Heirs; which it seems afterwards came back to Henry Lacy.

Sachent Touz ceaux—Henri de Lascy Counte de Nicole, & Conestable de Cester, avons done—à nostre amè Serjeant John le Fauconier pour le bone service, qu'il nous ad fait, & unquore ferra si Dieu plait, toute cele terre de Coggeshulle ove ses appurtenances, la quele Huward iadys nostre vallet avoit de nostre done en Countée de Cester,—Rendant de ce par an a nous & nous Heires un Chaperon de Faucon à la Feste Seint Michael.—Par ces Tesmoines, Monsieur Richard de Sutton, Monsieur William de Stopham, Monsieur Miles de Stapilton, Monsieur John Spring, Monsieur Roberd de Schirlaunde, Monsieur James de Nevill, Mon∣sieur Nicoale de Leyborne Chivaliers, & pluseurs autres. Ibidèm, Tom. 1. fol. 42. Com. Ce∣striae, num. 9.

In the Records of the Tower of Lodon, 18 Edw. 1. Hugo de Clyderhou Dominus de Cogshull Tenet de Henrico Lacy Comite Lincolniae; & idem Henricus de Hugone de Durreme; & idem Hugo de dono Warini Manwaring; & idem Warinus de Radulfo de Vernon; & idem Radulfus de Domino Comite Cestriae in Capite. This Note I had from Will. Vernon of Hulme in Allostock.

At this day, 1666. Cogshull is possessed by these Persons following, which were all bought of the King in Fee-farm Rent, 1612. being formerly Copy-holders to Halton.

Elinour Ashton, Widow; formerly Booth's of Cogshull,* 37.43 and before that Massy's of Cogshull, descended from Massy of Rixton.

Thomas Merbury of Merbury Esq hath Land here.

Edward Piggot of Cogshull.

Edmund Massy of Cogshull.

John Richardson of Cogshull.

Pownall of Barnton: (No House.)

Green of Sanbach: In possession of Richard Perceivall.

George Low of Hartford: One Close.

Comberbach.

ROger Constable of Cheshire; and Baron of Halton, about the Reign of Richard the First, granted Deo & Beatae Mariae, & Fratribus servientibus beatis Pauperi∣bus Sancti Hospitalis de Jerusalem, totam medietatem de Comberbach; illam scilicèt quam Willielmus de Comberbach de me tenuit:—unà cùm salina in Northwich quae pertinet ad Astonam juxtà Budworth—in puram & perpetuam Elemosynam—Et si Ricardus Fitton, vel Haeredes sui praedictum feodum super me vel supèr Haeredes suos recuperaverit, Ego & Haeredes mei praedictam donationem praedictis Hospitalariis Warrantizabimus; & Willielmo Comberbach & Haeredibus suis: Tenendum de praedictis Hospitalariis in Feodo & Haereditate: Reddendo eis annuatìm sex denarios pro omnibus quae ad Domum & ad Fratres ejusdem Domus pertinent. Hiis Testibus, Henrico Priore de Norton, Ricardo Capellano, Ricardo Fratre Constabularii, Hugone de Boydell, Radulfo Filio Symonis, Thomâ Dispensatore, Hugone de Dutton, Adâ de Dutton, Radulfo Filio Rogeri, Alexandro Filio Radulfi, Liulfo Vice-Go∣mite, Bertramo Camerario, Johanne Burdon, Hugone de Eccleston, Ricardo Filio Henrici, Roberto de Pulle, Johanne Filio Aluredi, Gilberto de Lymme, Willielmo de Gamul, Alano de Waley, Willielmo Filio Matthaei, Ricardo Filio Johannis, Ricardo Filio Gilberti, Aytropo, Ricardo Starkey, Ricardo de Whitley, Willielmo de Tabley, Waltero de Toft, Johanne de Comberbach, Henrico Fratre suo, & toto Hundredo de Haltonshire. Lib. C. fol. 274. num. 1. Out of the Book of Legh of Swineyard's Deeds, num. 1. now in his possession.

John, Son of Henry de Comberbach, gave to Adam Son of William de Litley in Aston juxtà Budworth, all his Lands in Comberbach,—unà cùm reversione dotis Elenae Matris praedicti Johannis—& Piscariâ suâ in Lacu de Budworth, &c. Entailing these Lands, first on the said Adam, and the Heirs of his Body; and in default of such, then on Robert Brother of the said Adam: Dated at Comberbach, die Lunae, Sancti Petri ad Vin∣cula (which is the first day of August) Anno Domini 1335. 9 Edw. 3. Ibidèm, num. 28.

The Moyety of Comberbach is now, 1666. in possession of—

• 1. Richard Legh of Swineyard hath two Tenements. Their Tenants do at this day pay the Chief-Rent of Six-pence at Tatton-Vurt.
• 2. Mrs. Ashton of Cogshull, two small Cottages. Their Tenants do at this day pay the Chief-Rent of Six-pence at Tatton-Vurt.
• 3. Mr. Warburton of the Grange nigh Weverham, three little Tenements.
• 4. John Gleyve of High Legh, one little Tenement, which Thomas Gleyve of High Legh purchased from Thomas Sonkey of Little Sonkey in Lancashire, 37 Hen. 8. 1545. Lib. C. fol. 269. num. 2.
• 5. Robert Venables of Anterbus in Over-Whitley, one Cottage, about two Acres.
• 6. Sir George Warburton of Arley, five small Cottages, not two Acres in all.

The other Moiety of Comberbach was granted to the Priory of Norton.

After the Dissolution of Abbies by Henry the Eighth, the King sold all those Lands

which belonged to the Priory of Norton, unto John Grimsdich of London, Gentleman, 36 Hen. 8. 1544. then in possession of Robert Merbury, George Hulme, Randle Worral, Agnes Walker, Randle Low, Lawrence Persivall, Roger Grymshaw, and George Eaton; out of which, 7 s. 7 d. ob. Chief-Rent is reserved to the King. And these were sold by Grimsdich to Robert Eaton; and lastly, bought by George Low of Hartford, from John Eaton of Over-Whitley, about fourteen or sixteen Years ago.

Other two Tenements, then in possession of Homfrey Shakeshaft and Thomas High∣field, out of which the yearly Rent of 2 s. 1 d. was reserved to the King, were bought by Mr. Merbury of Merbury, and are lately sold to Edward Piggot of Cogshull, who is now Owner of the same, 1666.

Daresbury.

THis Town is of the Fee of the Ancient Barons of Halton.

I find that in the Reign of Henry the Third, and before, there was a Family of the Daresberies seated here, whence they took their Sir-name; but whence origi∣nally sprung, I find not.

Rogerus de Hiberniâ, that is, Roger of Ireland, grants unto Beatrix Daughter of William de Daresbery, and to the Heirs which shall be begotten on her Body by Robert of Ireland,* 37.44 Son of the said Roger, all his Land of Leverpool in Lancashire: Testibus Domi∣no Roberto de Atherton Vice-Comite Lancastriae, Domino Henrico de Thorbock, Roberto le Sauvage tùnc Ballivo Comitis intèr Ribble & Mersey, Domino Willielmo Parsonâ de Waleton, Willielmo de Waleton Serviente Domini Regis, Willielmo de Molineaux, &c. Lib. C. fol. 184. a.

Anno 1291. Henry le Norreys was Lord of Daresbery, which Mannor he had in right of Margery Daresbery his Wife.

—Ego Margeria Domina de Daresbery dedi Alano Filio meo & Mabiliae Filiae Ranulphi de Merton, quem idem Alanus ducet in Uxorem, totum Manerium meum de Daresbe∣ry, cùm suis pertinentiis, unà cùm Dominio Villae de Over-Walton, 7 Edw. 2. 1313. Lib. C. fol. 185. e.

So in the Feodary of Halton, under Edward the Second, we read,—Alanus le Nor∣reys tenet Villam de Daresbery, & Villam de Wolton superiori, pro medietate unius Feodi Militis.

This Alan le Norreys had a Son, called also Alan le Norreys; and Clementia, Daughter and Heir of Alan the Son, married William Danyers, Son and Heir of Sir John Danyers of Daresbery, 1344. Lib. C. fol. 185. g. h. In which Family (commonly now called Daniell) it hath continued to this present, John Daniell of Daresbery Esquire being now possessed thereof, 1666.

It seems that Daniell had Land in Daresbery before the Marriage of William Daniell with Clementia Norreys; For Henry le Norreys, Lord of Daresbery, and Margery his Wife, (howbeit the Original Deed hereof calls her Margaret, being miswrit for Margery, for so she is called in all other Deeds) granted to William Daniers the Elder one Messuage in Daresbery, with all the Land which William More formerly held in the same Town; and one Water-mill, with a Croft called Wallmore; and one Wood, called The Com∣mon VVood; also one Wood and Land, called Daresbery-Cliff, containing 60 Acres by estimation: Dated on our Lady-day, 1291. 19 Edw. 1. Reddendo un••am libram Piperis, vel septem Denarios—& sex Porcos qui Pesonam fecerint per Annum. Lib. C. fol. 184. d.

Afterwards Sir John Danyers of Daresbury married VVilliam his Son and Heir to Clemence Daughter and Heir of Alan de Norreys, about 1344. And when Sir John, upon the death of Alan, had compounded for the Wardship of Clemence, 25 Edw. 3. he grants the Lands to VVilliam his Son, in these Words.—

SCiant praesentes & futuri, quòd ego Johannes Danyers Miles, Filius & Haeres Williel∣mi Danyers de Daresbury, Concessi—VVillielmo Danyers Filio meo omnia illa Maneria, Terras,—in Villis de Deresbury & Over-VValton in Comitatu Cestriae, & Sutton, Eccle∣ston, & Raynhull in Comitatu Lancastriae; quae nupèr fuerunt Haereditamenta Alani le Norreys Domini de Deresbury defuncti: Habendum—usquè ad plenam aetatem Clementiae Filiae & Haere∣dis dicti Alani, & nùnc Uxoris VVillielmi Danyers Filii & Haeredis mei apparentis, in tàm amplo modo prout Thomas Stanford Generalis Attornatus & VValterus de VVhitehorse nupèr habuerunt ex donatione Ducis Lancastriae—Reddendo indè annuatìm mihi praefato Johanni 40 l. 00 s. 00 d. durante termino praedicto,—&c. Testibus Thomâ Danyers de Bradley, Matthaeo del Mere, Thomâ de Legh, Johanne Filio Thomae Danyers praedicti, Johanne Boy∣dell,—&c. Datum apud Daresbury, die Lunae proximè antè Festum Sancti Michaelis Arch∣angeli, 25 Edw. 3. 1351. Lib. C. fol. 185. m.

VVilliam Danyers senior had Issue Thomas Danyers of Bradley, senior, living 17 Ed. 2. and also VVilliam Danyers of Daresbery, junior: Lib. C. fol. 233. b. e. & fol. 184. d. See more hereof in Over-Tabley: Whether of these is the elder Brother, is the Quaere.

Charterers in Daresbery, 1666.

• 1. VVilliam Gregg of Daresbery.
• 2. John Haywood of Kekwick habet Terras in Daresbery.
• 3. Richard Eaton of Hatton hath also Lands of Inheritance in Daresbery.

Here is in Daresbery also an ancient Parochial Chappel (a Daughter of the Mother-Church of Runcorne) Dedicated to All Saints.

AUbert Grelly omnibus hominibus suis, salutem. Sciatis me concessisse—Sanctae Mariae de Norton—Omnes Donationes, quas VVillielmus Constabularius Cestriae Avus meus, & VVillielmus Constabularius Cestriae Avunculus meus, eis in perpetuam Elemosynam dede∣runt quae sunt in meo Feodo; scilicèt totam Ecclesiam de Piritonâ (this is Pirton in Oxford∣shire)—& Capellam de Deresbiriâ in Cestershyrâ cùm omnibus suis pertinentiis, quae perti∣nent ad Eccesiam de Runcorne: Hanc autèm Confirmationem feci praefatis Canonicis pro ani∣mabus Patris & Matris meae, & Antecessorum meorum, pro salute Animae meae, & omnium Haeredum meorum.—Teste Roberto de Bury, VVillielmo Filio VVulfrici, Ricardo Filio Henrici: Lib. B. pag. 202. num. 18. This was in the Reign of Henry the Second. Aubert Grelly, Father of this Aubert, married Maud Sister and Co-heir to VVilliam Constable of Cheshire, the younger.

This Parochial Chappel comprehendeth these Villages.—

	The Mize.
	l.	s.	d.
Daresbery	00	07	00
Over-VValton	00	06	00
Nether-VValton	00	10	00
Kekwick	00	05	00
Thelwall	00	16	00
Preston on the Hill	00	13	00
Newton juxtà Daresbery	00	10	00
Hatton	00	14	00
Acton-Grange	00	08	00
Moore	00	12	00
Sum Total in the Mize-Book	05	01	00

Dunham-Massy.

THis Town of Dunham-Massy was the Seat of the Ancient Barons of Dunham-Massy; and from those Massy's, Lords thereof, it is called Dunham-Massy, in di∣stinction from another Dunham in this County, not far from Trofford-Bridge, called Dunham on the Hill.

Dunham hath its name from these two old English words, [Dun] which is as much as A Rising Hill, for which we now use the word Down; and [Ham,] A House, Home, or Dwelling: as it were, A Dwelling by the side of a Hill, A House or Town by the Downs.

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Quarterly, Gules and Or, in the first Quar∣ter a Lion passant, Argent.

I. Hamon Massy, the first Baron of Dunham-Massy, held the Towns of Dunham, Bowdon, Hale, Ashley, and half of Owlarton, in Bucklow Hundred, under Hugh Lupus Earl of Chester, in the Reign of William the Conqueror; all which one Elward held formerly, as appears by Doomsday-Book: So as it seems to me, That this Elward was dispossessed of his Right there∣in, and these Lands given to Hamon by Earl Hugh.

This Hamon had also in Maxfield Hundred, Brom∣hale; and Podinton in Wirrhall Hundred, at the same time, and other Lands.

This Hamon had Issue Hamon Son and Heir, and Robert Massy, Witness to the First Randle's Charter of Confirmation to the Abby of St. Werburge in Chester, about Anno Domini 1124. or thereabout. See suprà in this Book, pag. 119.

* 37.45II. Hamon Massy the Second, Son and Heir of Hamon, had Issue Hamon Son and Heir; Robert Massy, from whom the Massies of Sale in Cheshire, a Family yet extant, 1666. Lib. C. fol. 150. d. e. f.

III. Hamon Massy the Third, Son and Heir of Hamon the Second, had to Wife Agatha, and had Issue, Hamon Son and Heir; Robert Massy, to whom his Mother (cal∣ling her self by the name of Agatha de Theray) gave the moiety of Bowdon, which she bought of Roger Massy of Hale, Son of Geffrey Massy; Lib. C. fol. 252. i. k. And John Massy; Lib. C. fol. 258. a. Also Agnes, a Daughter, with whom her Father gave half of Bolinton in Free-Marriage to Geffrey Dutton of Chedill, Son of Geffrey Dutton: Lib. C. fol. 150. a. b. Sibil, another Daughter, who gave to Cicely, Daughter of John Massy her Brother, half of the Town of Norden, Lib. C. fol. 271. c. Also Cicely, another Daughter of Hamon de Massy, to whom her Father gave all his Land of Alretunstall, and all his Land of Sunderland, Lib. C. fol. 254. b. Another Daughter married Hugh de Dutton, which see in Dutton.

Hamon Massy the Third died about the Reign of King John, or sub initio Hen. 3. and Agatha his Wife survived him.

This Hamon the Third gave unto John Massy his Brother all the Land of Moreton, which Matthew de Moreton held, with Housebote and Haybote in his Demain-wood of Bid∣ston; for the Land of Podington, which Robert de Massy his Uncle held: Faciendo Ser∣vitium dimidii Feodi Milits: Lib. C. fol. 258. a. about Henry the Second, or Richard the First.

He also gave to Robert Son of Waltheof all the Land which his Father Waltheof held of the said Hamon and his Ancestors; to wit, Etchels, to be held by the Service of half a Knights Fee; & ego Hamo retineo ad opus meum Cervum, & Bissam, & Aprum de Hulerswood; that is, Hart, Hind, and Boar. The said Hamon restored also to the said

Robert, Bredbury and Brininton, finding a Sumpter-Horse, and a Man, and a Sack for the carriage of his Arms and Apparel, when the Earl of Chester shall in Person lead an Army into Wales; and shall give aid to the said Hamon for the Redeeming of his Body, if he be taken Prisoner; and for the making of his eldest Son a Knight, and when his eldest Daughter shall be married: Lib. C. fol. 258. b.

This Hamon Founded the Priory of Birkenhed in Wirrall, commonly called Birket-Abby; the Church whereof was dedicated to St. James: And I find Oliver Prior of Birkenhed subscribed a Witness in the Reign of King John, Lib. C. fol. 252. I. K. I conjecture it might be founded about the Reign of Henry the Second; and Speed saith, they were of the Order of the Black Monks.

IV. Hamon Massy the Fourth, Son and Heir of Hamon the Third, had Issue Hamon Son and Heir, William Massy, from whom the Massies of Tatton, Lib. C. fol. 255. e. Also Margery, a Daughter, to whom her Father gave the whole Town of Stretford, about Anno Domini 1250. And after, the said Margery, then Widow of Roger Pain of Echburn, i. e. Ashburn, released all her Right in the whole Town of Stretford unto Henry de Trafford, Lib. C. fol. 251. d. e. The Originals of these two Deeds were among the Evidences of Sir Cecil Trafford of Trafford in Lancashire, 1666.

V. Hamon Massy the Fifth, Son and Heir of the Fourth Hamon, gave the Advow∣son of the Church of Bowdon unto the Priory of Birkenhed in Wirrall, whereunto Ri∣chard Massy Sheriff of Cheshire was Witness, which was 6 Edw. 1. Anno Christi 1278. which Priory was Dedicated to St. James: Monasticon Anglicanum, 1 Pars, pag. 484. And this Deed was enrolled in the Cheshire Doomsday-book, which is now lost.

This Hamon married Alice Daughter and Heir of Sir Eustace Whitney, and had Issue Hamon Son and Heir, and

16 Edw. 1. 1288. the Barony of Dunham-Massy was found to be held of the King in Capite by the Service of five Knights Fees: Inveniendo pro quolibet Feodo unum Equum coopertum, vel duos discoopertos, infrà divisas Cestershiriae tempore Guerrae, cùm omnibus Hominibus suis Peditibus, Tenentibus terram forinsecam, infrà Feodum praedictum: Faciendo Servitium suum secundùm purportam Communis Chartae Cerstershiriae: Lib. C. fol. 259. P. See this Common Chart above in this Book, pag. 162, 163. &c.

VI. Sir Hamon Massy, the sixth and last Baron of Dunham-Massy, Son and Heir of the fifth Hamon, married Isabel Daughter of Homfrey de Beauchamp, and on the Mar∣riage-day at night (as it hapned) she died before Carnal Copulation: Afterwards he married Alice Sister of the said Isabell, and by her had Issue Hamon a Son, who died without Issue; and four Daughters: Cicely married John Fitton of Bollyn; Isabell married Hugh Dytton, who had Issue Katharine Wife of Thomas de Belgrave; _____ _____ another Daughter, married Thomas de Lathom, and had four Daughters who had Issue; and Alice, another Daughter, married Hamon de Hilond, and had Issue Hamon,* 37.46 and other Sons: Lib. C. fol. 261. b. An old Parchment Roll in a Character about Richard the Second, among the Evidences of Dunham-Massy.

And after the death of Hamon Massy the Son, the said Sir Hamon Baron of Dunham-Massy was Divorced from Alice his Wife, and married Joan Clinton Sister of the Earl of Huntington; and by the counsel of this Joan, he sold the Reversion of the whole Mannor of Doneham, with its Appurtenances, after the death of himself and Joan his Wife, in case they had no Issue, unto Oliver de Ingham then Judge of Chester; for which Reversion Oliver gave him 1000 Marks, and 40 Marks Annual Rent for his Life; 10 Edw. 2. 1316. Lib. C. fol. 256. q.r. t. x.

This Hamon, the last Baron, being sued at Chester, 1 Edw. 2. by Peter Dutton (stiled also sometimes Peter de Warburton, and Ancestor to Warburton of Arley) concerning a Parcel of Waste Ground conceived by him to lie in Warburton, the said Hamon plead∣ed, That Hamon Massy his Father was seised of the same, and that the Land in que∣stion

did lie in Doneham, and not in Warburton; and moreover, that he the said Hamon was one of the Kings Barons, and held his Lands of the King in Capite (as Earl of Chester) in Barony immediately, aad ought not to proceed to Trial without a Jury of Knights and discreet Men of the County. Placita Cestriae ad Festum Sancti Marci Evan∣gelistae, 1 Edw. 2. Lib. C. fol. 260. z.

Chart. 18 Edw. 1. Memb. 3. Rex concessit Hamoni de Massy unum Mercatum per diem Martis apud Manerium suum de Altrincham; & unam Feriam per tres dies duraturam, vi∣delicèt, in Vigiliâ, die, & Crastino Festi Assumptionis Beatae Mariae. Lib. C. fol. 260. q. And hereupon he made his Charter to his Burgesses of Altrincham of a Guild-Mercatory. See above in Altrincham.

This Sir Hamon was possessed onely of these Mannors, Doneham, Kelsall, Altrin∣cham; Bidston, Salghall, and Moreton: Lib. C. fol. 260. y. But in the Rental of Dun∣ham-Massy, dated 3 Hen. 4.—John Davenport of Bromhall tenet Villas de Bromhall, Duc∣kenfield, Baggiley, and Etchells, per Servitium Militare, & reddendo annuatim 2 l. 0 s. 0 d. [But 13 s. 4 d. of this Rent was remitted by Sir Thomas Stanley and Sir Robert Booth, by Deed, 22 Hen. 6.] Lib. C. fol. 262. h.

—Davenport de Henbury tenet terram suam in Wernith, reddendo per Annum 5 d. Itèm tenet Bredbury, Romiley, Brunington (nuper Adam de Bredbury & Matilda Holland) per Ser∣vitium Militare; & idem inveniat Domino de Doneham unum Championem ad pugnandum pro eo, si fuerit appellatus: & si dictus Dominus fecerit aliquam Appellationem ad aliquem alium, tàm in brevi de recto quàm aliquo alio modo, dictus Champio pro eo pugnabit: & inveniet unum Hoblar & Sacket Jugg ad Custodiendum Carriagium suum per quindecem dies in Guerris de Wales.

So that the Services of these, and may other Towns, did anciently belong to the Barons of Dunham-Massy.

Hamon the last Baron of Dunham-Massy died 15 Edw. 3. aut circiter. Lib. C. fol. 254. t.

So that the Massies continued from the Norman Conquest at Dunham-Massy, about 260 Years.

But now fell great Suits concerning the Barony of Dunham-Massy, after the Death of Hamon and Joan without Issue of their Bodies: For Richard Fitton, and the Heirs of the other Sisters, entred into the Mannor of Dunham, as Heirs to the said Hamon; at which time Oliver Ingham was in the King's Service Beyond-sea, to wit, Steward of Gascony: And then, by the King's Command, Hamon Massy ef Tatton* 37.47, and others of the Council of the said Oliver, came to the Mannor of Doneham, and entred in the Name of Oliver, and Richard Fitton and his Partners went out of Doneham; and so the said Oliver Ingham died seised of the said Mannor, with its Appurtenances: And after the death of Oliver Ingham, Richard Fitton▪ and his Partners entred again; and the Heirs of Oliver (who were Mary Daughter of John Ccrson, and Joan Wife of Roger le Strange of Knocking, the Elder) brought a Writ of Novae Disseisinae against the Co-heirs: And after, Henry Duke of Lancaster buys out all the Right of the Co-heirs, as also the Right of the Heirs of Oliver; and so the Duke being possessed of the Mannor of Doneham, with its Members, gave it to Roger le Strange Lord of Knocking. Lib. C. fol. 261. b.* 37.48

I shall now put down the Descent of the Heirs of Fitton from this time.

I. John Fitton of Bollin in Maxfield Hundred, Son and Heir of Edmund Fitton of Bollin-Fee, married Cecily eldest Daughter and Co-heir of Sir Hamon Massy Baron of Dunham-Massy, and had Issue Richard Fitton Son and Heir, and Hugh Fitton, another Son, who married Margery Daughter and Heir of Robert de Pownall, 1328. from whom the Fittons of Pownall.

This John Fitton had a younger Brother called Thomas Fitton, living 1335. which

Thomas married Isabel Daughter and Heir of Thomas Orreby of Gowesworth, from whom the Fittons of Gowesworth: Also Hugh Fitton, another Brother, Rector of Wimslow-Church, 1335.

II. Richard Fitton of Bollin, Son and Heir of John, married Joan _____ _____ She was living 1335. and had Issue John Fitton eldest Son, who married Christian Daughter and Co-heir of Peter Arderne of Over-Alderley, and made Partition of Arderne's Lands with Margaret her Sister, Wife of Richard de Wever, in Anno 1350. 24 Edw. 3. but this John died without Issue: Also Hamon Fitton, second Son, who became Heir to his Father; and Francis, third Son, 1337. died without Issue.

III. Hamon Fitton of Bollin, second Son, and Heir of Richard, married Elizabeth Daughter and Co-heir to Sir Peter Thornton of Thornton, Knight; and had Issue Peter Fitton, who died without Issue about 42 Edw. 3. Lib. C. fol. 179. e. Joan, Sister and Heir to Peter, married Richard Venables, younger Son of Hugh Venables Baron of Kin∣derton.

IV. Richard Venables of Bollin, in Right of Joan his Wife. She was in Custody of Thomas Dutton of Dutton Knight, 42 Edw. 3. and was then under Age, and unmarried. She had Issue William Venables Son and Heir; and John Venables of Anterbus in Over-Whitley, from whom Venables of Anterbus.

V. Sir William Venables of Bollin Knight, Son and Heir of Richard, married Joan Daughter of Sir John Massy of Tatton, and had Issue Richard Venables, drowned in the Water of Ringey, 3 Hen. 4. aged then about eight years; and two Daughters and Heirs: Alice married Sir Edmund Trafford of Trafford in Lancashire; and Dowse married Robert Booth, younger Son of John Booth of Barton in Lancashire, Lib. C. fol. 257. b. af∣terwards Sir Robert Booth of Dunham-Massy.

Sir William Venables of Bollin died 9 Hen. 5. 1421. Lib. C. fol. 257. b.

Sir Edmund Trafford and Alice his Wife, and Robert Booth and Dowse his Wife, make Partition of the Lands of Sir William Venables, 9 Hen. 5. except Lindow-Moor and Thornton-Mosse, and except the Homage and Service of Geffrey Warburton and his Heirs, for the Lands which he holdeth in Aston and Budworth, and elsewhere in Cheshire, which remained undivided at that time.

Sir Edmund and Alice had to their share, Morley, Chorley, and Hough, the Rents and Services of Thomas Pownall, Richard Fitton, and William de Honford; and the Rent and Service of Sir Lawrence Fitton (id est, de Gowesworth) for his Lands in Bollin-Fee; as also all the Lands which Sir William Venables lately had in Norden and Helsby,—with the Advowson of Wimslow Church.

Robert Booth and Dowse had Styall, and Dene-row, and all the Lands which Sir William Venables lately had in Fally-brome, Norley, Oneston, Kingsley, Arrow, Picton, Stoke, and Chester; also the Mannor-House of Thornton, and the Advowson of Thornton-Church, and Bollin-Mills, and 5 l. 0 s. 0 d. to be paid yearly by the Heirs of Alice out of the Mannors of Bollin and Norcliff.

This Robert, afterwards Sir Robert Booth, having thus possessed himself of his share of the Lands of Venables of Bollin, challenged his Part of the Lands of Dunham-Massy, which ought to descend to him as one of the Heirs of Venables of Bollin; and to Vena∣bles, as Heir to Fitton of Bollin; and to Fitton of Bollin, as Heir to one of the Daugh∣ters and Heirs of Sir Hamon Massy of Dunham.

At last it was agreed between Sir Thomas Stanley, Sir Robert Booth, and William Chauntrell Serjeant at Law, That one half of the Mannors, Lands, Rents, and Ser∣vices in Dunham, Hale, and Altrincham, should remain to the said Thomas Stanley and William Chauntrell, and their Co-Feoffees; and the other half to the said Sir Ro∣bert Booth and his Co-Feoffees. Dated 16 die Julii, 11 Hen. 6. 1433. Lib. C.

fol. 262. e. f. g. The Originals among the Evidences at Dunham-Massy, 1666.

And thus Sir Robert Booth got footing in Dunham, whose Heirs have since made Purchases; and George Booth Lord Delamere of Dunham-Massy, is now, 1666. possessed of the Mannor of Dunham-Massy.

Charterers in Dunham-Massy, 1666.

• 1. John Crew of Crew, Esquire, hath three Tenements in Sunderland, now in pos∣session of Henry Heskith, Robert Ashton, and Henry Haselhurst.
• 2. George Vawdrey of Dunham-wood-houses▪ one Tenement in his own possession.
• 3. James Johnson, alias Ottiwell, one Tenement in Dunham-wood-houses, lately bought of Mr. Bodon late of Bodon, to revert after Mr. Bodon's death.
• 4. Mr. Parker of Parker's-Hall in Altrincham, one Tenement in Dunham in possessi∣on, besides five Cottages.

Now followeth the Genealogy of the Booths of Dunham-Massy, since the time they were first possessed of Dunham.

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Argent, three Boars Heads era∣sed & ere∣cted, Sable.

I. Sir Robert Booth of Dunham Knight, 11 Hen. 6. 1433. younger Son of John Booth of Barton in Lancashire, Esquire, married Dowse Daughter and Co-heir of Sir William Venables of Bollin, and had Issue William Booth, Son and Heir; Raufe Booth, second Son; Geffrey Booth, third Son; and Ha∣mond Booth, Clerk: Also Lucy, married to John Chantler of the Bache nigh Chester; Ellen married Robert Legh of Adlington; Alice married Robert Heskith of Rufford in Lancashire; and Joan marri∣ed Hamon Massy of Rixton in Lancashire, 31 Hen. 6. Lib. C. fol. 250. a. & fol. 294. num. 29. Also Margery Wife of James de Scarebrick; and John Booth Bishop of Exeter, and Warden of Manche∣ster-College, Lib. C. fol. 249. l. who died 1478. saith Weever in his Funeral Monuments, pag. 444, 445. And also Robert, Edward, and Peter, other Sons; as I find in the Ancient Pedegree.

Raufe Booth, here stiled the second Son, married Margaret Daughter and Heir of Thomas Sibell of Sondwich in Kent, and had three Daughters and Heirs: Dowse married one Gomer of London; Margaret married William Mere, Son and Heir of Thomas Mere of Mere nigh Over-Tabley in Cheshire, 34 Hen. 6. and Jane married Robert Leycester of Toft. Lib. C. fol. 207. n. & fol. 175.

This Sir Robert Booth, and William his Son and Heir, were made Sheriffs for both their Lives, conjunctìm vel divisìm, of Cheshire, and to the Survivor of them. The Writ dated 8 Martii, 21 Hen. 6. 1442. which is the first Patent for Life in this kind that I meet withal in our County: Howbeit, after Edward the Fourth had got the Crown, he presently made William Stanley of Hooton Sheriff, 2 Edw. 4. And so William Booth, Sir Robert's Son, was outed of his Sheriff-ship.

This Sir Robert Booth lived in the Reigns of Henry the Fourth, Henry the Fifth, and Henry the Sixth; and seems to die about 29 Hen. 6.

A word or two about the Coat of Arms of Booth. I find that Thomas Barton of Barton in Lancashire gave unto John Booth Son of Thomas Booth of Barton, and to his Heirs for ever, liberty to Bear his Coat of Arms, to wit, Argent, Three Boars Heads erased and erected, Sable; by Deed dated 5 Hen. 4. 1404. John Booth's Book, Lib. H. pag. 49. wherein were extracted the Deeds of Booth of Barton, and several others. Which Coat of Arms have ever since been born by Booth of Barton, as also by Booth of Dunham, with his Distinction of a younger Son, even to this present.

Howbeit, the said Thomas Booth of Barton had another

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Sigillum Thomas Bothe

Coat of his own, which is affixed in his Seal to the Deed wherein Thomas del Bothe gave to Henry his Son all his Lands in Irwell: Datum apud Barton, die Sabbati proximè antè Festum Sancti Georgii, 43 Edw. 3. In which Seal is an Escocheon of Arms, A Cheveron engrailed, and in a Canton a Mollet; inscribed about the Seal,—Sigil∣lum Thomae Bothe. Which Deed was in possession of George Booth of Dunham-Massy, Lord Delamere, Anno Domini 1666. very plain and perfect, and no way defaced: Lib. C. fol. 257. a.

II. Sir William Booth of Dunham Knight, Son and Heir of Sir Robert, married Maud Daughter of John Dutton of Dutton Esquire, 21 Hen. 6. 1442. Lib. C. fol. 164. g. and had Issue George Booth Son and Heir, Richard Booth, Lawrence Booth, John Booth, and William Booth; Lib. C. fol. 250. a. Also Dowse, mar∣ried to Thomas Legh of High-Legh de West-hall, Esquire, 1 Edw. 4. 1641. Anne, mar∣ried to John Legh of Boothes, Esquire; after to Geffrey Shakerley of Shakerly in Lanca∣shire: Ellen married Sir John Legh of Bagiley, 6 Edw. 4. 1466. Lib. A. fol. 151. y. Margery married John Hyde of Haghton in Lancashire: Alice married John Ashley of Ashley nigh Bowdon in Cheshire: Elizabeth Wife of Thomas Fitton of Pownall in Max∣field Hundred: Joan married William Holt of Lancashire.

Sir William died 16 Edw. 4. 1476. and gave Lands to Feoffees in Trust, for the pro∣viding of a Chaplain to pray for him and his Friends, in a Chappel to be built in Bowdon Church for that purpose; which was built accordingly. Lib. C. fol. 150. a.

III. George Booth of Dunham Esquire, Son and Heir of Sir William, married Ka∣tharine Daughter and Heir of Robert Montfort Lord of Bescote in Staffordshire, and Monks-path in Warwickshire, younger Son of Sir William Montfort of Colshill in Warwick∣shire: Dugdale in his Antiquities of Warwickshire, pag. 728. but mis-printed for 738. and so all along forward mis-printed. By whom he had Issue William Booth Son and Heir, Lawrence, and Roger: Alice (alii Anne vocant) married William Massy of Denfleld in Rosthorn; Ellen married Thomas Vawdrey, after to Trofford of Bridge-Trofford in Cheshire.

This George died 1 Rich. 3. 1483.

IV. Sir William Booth of Dunham Knight, Son and Heir of George, married Marga∣ret Co-heir of Sir Thomas Ashton of Ashton under Lyme, and had Issue George Son and Heir, and John Booth: And afterwards he had a second Wife, to wit, Ellen Daugh∣ter of Sir John Montgomery of Throwley in Staffordshire, by whom he had Issue William, Hamnet, Edward Booth, from whom the Booths of Twamlow in Cheshire; Henry, and An∣drew: Also Jane married Hugh Dutton, Son and Heir of Sir Piers Dutton of Hatton and Dutton both, 12 Hen. 8. 1520. Lib. C. fol. 167. Afterwards she married Thomas Hol∣ford of Holford nigh Nether-Tabley, Esquire: Dorothy married Edward Warren, Son and Heir of Lawrence Warren of Pointon in Cheshire, Esquire, 10 Hen. 8. 1518. Lib. C. fol. 250. b. Anne married Sir William Brereton of Brereton.

This Sir William Booth died 11 Hen. 8. 1519. nono die Novembris.

V. George Booth of Dunham Esquire, Son and Heir of Sir William, married Eliza∣beth Daughter of Sir Thomas Butler of Beusy nigh Warrington in Lancashire, and had Is∣sue George Son and Heir, John Booth, and Robert Booth: Also Ellen, married to John Son and Heir of John Carington of Carington in Cheshire, Esquire, 29 Hen. 8. 1537. Lib. C. fol. 257. c. Anne married William Massy of Podington in Wirrall, Esquire: Mar∣garet married Sir William Davenport of Bromhale in Maxfield Hundred: Elizabeth mar∣ried Richard Sutton of Sutton nigh Maxfield, Esquire, 1566. Dorothy married Robert

Tatton of Withenshaw nigh Baggiley, Esquire: Alice married Peter Daniell of Over-Tabley Esquire, 4 Edw. 6. 1550. Lib. C. fol. 243. I. And Cicely died without Issue.

This George died 22 Hen. 8. 1531. aged forty Years.

VI. George Booth of Dunham Esquire, Son and Heir of George, married Elizabeth Daughter of Sir Edmund Trafford of Trafford in Lancashire, and had Issue William Son and Heir; Elizabeth married William Chantrell of Bache not far from Chester; Mary mar∣ried Randle Davenport of Henbury Esquire; Anne married _____ _____ Wentworth of _____ _____ in Yorkshire.

When Letters were sent from the Queen (Jane Seymour) through the Kingdom, to disperse the joyful News of the Birth of Edward the Sixth, 12 Octob. 1537. 29 Hen. 8. one was sent by the Queen to this George Booth Esquire. Lib. C. fol. 249. n.

This George died 35 Hen. 8. 1543. aged 28 Years. Elizabeth his Widow after mar∣ried James Done Brother and Heir to Sir John Done of Utkinton; and afterwards she married Thomas Fitton of Gowesworth.

VII. Sir William Booth of Dunham, Knighted 1578. Son and Heir of George, was but three Years old when his Father died, and was Ward to the King. He married Elizabeth Daughter of Sir John Warburton of Arley in Aston nigh Great Budworth, and had Issue George Booth Son and Heir; Edmund, second Son, was a Lawyer, and died without Issue; John, third Son, married the Daughter of Prestwich of Hulm nigh Man∣chester, and had several Children; which John was buried at Bowdon 1 Augusti 1644. Robert, fourth Son, Baptized at Bowdon December 11. 1570. was a Soldier in Holland: Peter, fifth Son, was Baptized 21 Aprilis, 1576, died 7 Septembris, 1576. Richard, sixth Son, Baptized at Bowdon 15 Junii, 1578. He married _____ _____ Daughter and Heir of _____ _____ Massy of Cogshull, descended of Massy of Rixton. I find also another Son, called William, buried at Bowdon 31 Martii, 1572. Also Mary eldest Daughter; Eliza∣beth, second Daughter, married William Basnet; after to one Walshe of Ireland: Doro∣thy, third Daughter, married Rafe Bunigton of Barrow-cock in Derbyshire; Alice, fourth Daughter, married one Panton; Elinour, fifth Daughter, Baptized at Bowdon 27 Febru∣arii, 1573. And Susan, sixth Daughter, Baptized at Bowdon 21 Maii, 1577. married Sir Edward Warren of Pointon in Cheshire: afterwards she married John Fitton of Che∣ster. See the Office of Sir William Booth, proving the Names of all these Daughters. See also the Office of Elizabeth Ashton, 2 Elizabethae, whose Part came to this Sir Wil∣liam.

Sir William died 28 Novembris, and was buried at Bowdon 8 die Decembris, 1579. aged 39 Years.

He was Sheriff of Cheshire, 1571. Dame Elizabeth his Wife gave five Pound for ever yearly to the Poor of Bowdon Parish, which Gift commenced 1621. as I find in the Register of Bowdon Church.

VIII. Sir George Booth of Dunham, Knighted about the latter end of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth, and created Baronet 9 Jacobi, 1611. upon the first Institution of that Order, Son and Heir of Sir William, did much improve his Estate.

He had two Wifes: The first was Jane Daughter and Heir of John Carington of Carington Esquire, whom he married the 18 day of February, 1577. John Carington her Father dying in January before: Jane was Baptized at Bowdon the tenth day of December, 1562. aged fifteen Years at the time of her Marriage; but she died with∣out Issue: Yet Sir George carried away all Carington's Lands against the next Heirs Males of that Family, which he recovered by Suit.

After the death of Jane, Sir George married Katharine Daughter of Sir Edmund An∣derson Chief Justice of the Common Pleas, by whom he had Issue William, eldest Son; Francis, second Son, Baptized at Bowdon 11 Decembris, 1603. and Buried there 1 Martii, 1616. as appears by the Inscription in a Marble Monument in the South Isle of the Chancel of Bowdon Church, and the Register-Book there: Thomas, third

Son, Baptized at Bowdon 9 Decembris, 1604. He died 1632. with a fall from his Horse: Edmund, fourth Son, born 26 Decembris, and Baptized at Bowdon 1 Januarii, 1609. where he was also buried 5 Septembris, 1617. John Booth, youngest Son, now Sir John Booth of Woodford nigh Over in Cheshire, Knighted 1660. and yet living 1667. He hath several Children by his first Wife; but after her death he married Anne the Wi∣dow of Thomas Legh of Adlington Esquire, 1659. but they lived asunder: Mary eldest Daughter of Sir George, was never married: Alice married George Vernon of Hastington Esquire, afterward Judge Vernon; she was buried at Bowdon 8 Martii, 1623. Frances, third Daughter* 37.49, yet living at Chester, 1667. but never married: Susan, fourth Daugh∣ter, married Sir William Brereton of Honford about 1623. She was buried at Bowdon 6 Junii, 1637. Katharine, another Daughter, Baptized at Bowdon 22 Maii, 1606. she is yet living at Chester, 1667. and was never married: Cicely, another Daughter, died young: Elizabeth, youngest Daughter, was second Wife to Richard Lord Byron of New∣stede in Nottinghamshire, both living 1667. but she hath no Issue.

This Sir George was Ward to Queen Elizabeth, and was at the full age of 21 Years October 20. 29 Eliz. 1587. He was Sheriff of Chester 1597. and also 1622. and he died at Dunham-Massy 24 Octobris, and was buried at Bowdon 18 Novembris, 1652. having compleated the 86 Year of his Age.

Katharine his Lady died long before him; she was buried at Bowdon 26 Februarii, 1638.

IX. William Booth Esquire, eldest Son of Sir George, married Vere third Daughter and Co-heir of Sir Thomas Egerton (eldest Son of Sir Thomas Egerton Lord Chancel∣lor of England) in May, Anno Domini 1619. and had Issue Thomas Booth, eldest Son, Baptized at Bowdon 29 Junii, 1620. he died at Chester 3 Januarii, 1632. and was buri∣ed at St. Werburge in Chester; George Booth, second Son, succeeded Heir; William Booth, third Son, Baptized at Bowdon 28 Februarii, 1625. he died young; Nathaniel Booth, fourth Son, Baptized at Bowdon 9 Maii, 1627. is yet living at his House in Mottram-Andrew nigh Over-Alderley in Cheshire. 1667. He married Anne Ravenscroft, Daughter of Robert Ravenscroft, late of Bretton in the Parish of Harden in Flintshire, Esquire, and hath Issue: Charles Booth, fifth Son, Baptized at Bowdon 26 Julii, 1628. and was bu∣ried at Bowdon 21 Januarii, 1634. Elizabeth Booth, Baptized at Bowdon 13 Julii, 1621. she died young: Katharine, another Daughter, Baptized at Bowdon 25 Maii, 1624. she married John Jackson of Hickelton in Yorkshire, Esquire, about 1647. afterwards cre∣ated Baronet, 31 Decembris, 1660. She died 1667.

This William Booth of Dunham was buried at Bowdon 3 Maii, 1636. in the Life-time of Sir George his Father.

Vere his Wife was buried at Bowdon 4 Maii, 1629.

X. Sir George Booth of Dunham-Massy, Baronet, Son and Heir of William, and Grand∣son of Sir George, was created Baron Delamere of Dunham-Massy at the Coronation of King Charles the Second: His Patent bears date the 20 day of April, 13 Car. 2. 1661. He hath much beautified the Mannor-house of Dunham-Massy, by Building the North side thereof answerable to the opposite Part; and hath encompassed a large Outward Court with a Brick-wall, and a fair Gate of Stone. He made a Domestick Chappel there, about 1655. by laying two Ground-Rooms together on the South side of the House.

He married Katharine Daughter of Theophilus Fines Earl of Linooln, by whom he had Issue Vere Booth, a Daughter, Baptized 23 Julii, 1643. and is yet living, 1667.

Dame Katharine his Lady was Buried at Bowdon 5 Augusti, 1643. She died in Child∣bed.

Afterwards he married Elizabeth Daughter of Henry Grey Earl of Stanford, by whom he had Issue William Booth eldest Son, a very hopeful Youth, who died Anno Domini 1662. Henry Booth, second Son; Charles Booth, George Booth, Robert Booth, Cecil Booth, all living 1666. Also Elizabeth, eldest Daughter by this Lady, yet living 1667. Anne,

another Daughter, died at London 1667. Jane, another Daughter, died young, 1663. Diana, another Daughter, living 1667. Also Nevill Booth, another Son, Baptized at Dunham 15 Novembris, 1666.

XI. Henry Booth, second Son of George Lord Delamere, and Heir to his Father, mar∣ried Mary Daughter of Sir James Langham, Son of Alderman John Langham of Lon∣don, Baronet, in July, 1670. George Lord Delamere his Father yet living.

Dutton.

I Find this Town of Dutton thrice named in Doomsday-book, as held then in the Con∣queror's time by three Persons. One Part Odard held immediately of the Earl of Chester, as it were in Capite: Another Part was held by William Fitz-Nigell Baron of Halton, of the Earl, in like manner: Another Part did Osberne Son of Tezzon, Ance∣stor to the Boydells of Dodleston, hold also of the Earl of Chester.

Odard's Part seems to be the greatest Part, which one Ravene held before at the com∣ing in of the Normans. The Baron of Halton's Part, and Osbern's Part, one Edward held before, and did then likewise hold Osbern's Part under the said Osbern.

But both Osbern's Part, and the Baron of Halton's Part, at last came to the Posterity of Odard:* 37.50 For Osbern's Part was sold by his Heir Sir William Boydell, who released all his Seignory unto Thomas Son of Hugh Dutton of Dutton, in all the Lands which the said Thomas held of him in Dutton, 15 Edw. 3. 1341. Lib. C. fol. 158. b.

As to the Baron of Halton's Part, John Constable of Cheshre, Baron of Halton, gave to Adam de Dutton (younger Son of Hugh Dutton of Dutton, and Ancestor to Warburton of Arley) those four Oxgangs of Land in Dutton, which Walter Heron held: This was about the end of the Reign of Henry the Second: Lib. C. fol. 140. And Sir Geffrey de Warburton releaseth all his Right unto Thomas Son of Hugh de Dutton aforesaid, in all those Lands in Dutton which the said Thomas held by Lease from the said Sir Geffrey: Dated at Dutton 28 Edw. 3. 1354. Lib. C. fol. 158. c. So that Thomas de Dutton was now invested in the whole Town of Dutton entirely.

This Township in the ancient Record of Doomsday-book is written [Duntune]: Dun in the old Saxon Language signifies A Hill, for which we now use the word Down: So that Duntune signifies as much as A Town upon a Hill or Down; now contracted to Dutton.

From this Town did the ancient Family of the Duttons assume their Sir-name: For Odard being seated here in the Conqueror's Time, his Posterity were sir-named de Dutton from the Place of their Residence; where they have continued ever since to this pre∣sent 1666. about 600 Years: A Family of great Worth and Antiquity, and as it were almost a constant Succession of Knights; but now, alas! ready to change its Name, being devolved by a Daughter and Heir unto the Lord Gerard of Gerards-Bromley in Staffordshire.

Out of this Family branched out the Warburtons of Arley under Henry the Second, and retained their proper Sir-name of Dutton, till Peter Dutton seating himself at War∣burton towards the end of Edward the First, his Posterity under Edward the Second were stiled de Warburton, and have ever since wholly retained the Sir-name of War∣burton.

* 37.51About the same time of Henry the Second, branched out also Geffrey de Dutton, ano∣ther Son, from whom the Duttons of Chedill in this County; whose Posterity after∣wards assumed the Sir-name of Chedill under Edward the First: And out of this Fa∣mily of Dutton of Chedill, branched out Hamon Dutton, a younger Son, under Edward the First, who assumed the Sir-name of Ashley from the Place of his Residence; whose Posterity wholly retained the Sir-name of Ashley, as you may see more fully in Ashley▪

Besides the Duttons of Hatton nigh Warton in Cheshire, more lately sprung hence, and other Good Families.

The Mannor-house of Dutton is well seated, and hath great store of Meadowing by the River side belonging to the Demain, which is accounted the largest and best De∣main within our County, comprehending 1400 Statute Acres by Survey.

This House standeth upon a pleasant Prospect to the opposite Hills of the Forest; and hath in it an ancient Chappel, built first by Sir Thomas Dutton towards the end of Henry the Third's Reign; unto whom Roger de Lincoln then Prior of Norton, and the Convent there, did grant liberam Cantariam in Capellis suis de Dutton & Weston infrà Limites Parochiarum nostrarum de Budworth & de Runcorne: id est, Free liberty of Reading Divine Service, or Singing the same; so as the Mother-Churches receive no detriment either in their greater or lesser Tythes. Lib. C. fol. 155. s. That of We∣ston is long since vanished; but this Chappel at Dutton yet remains, and is now a Do∣mestick Chappel within the Mannor-House of Dutton, unto which Sir Piers Dutton of Hatton, after he was adjudged next Heir Male to the Lands of Dutton by the Award of Henry the Eighth, did annex his new Buildings at Dutton, Anno Domini 1539. as ap∣pears by the Inscription round about the Hall of Dutton yet extant, ad••oyning those unto the Chappel, and so making it as one continued Building; before which time, the old House stood a little distance from the Chappel aforesaid.

In the Demain of Dutton is also another Chappel of Ease, called Poosey-Chappel, within the Parish of Runcorne; but is now ruinate, and in decay. It is seated between the River and the Park-Pool within the Demain of Dutton, but not in the Township of Dutton; for all the Town of Dutton is within Budworth Parish. It was called Poos-eye from its Situation, [Ey] in our old English-Saxon Tongue signifies A River or Brook; and because it stood close by the River and the Pool also, it was called Poos-ey-Chappel, as it were, The Chappel by the River and the Pool. In our old Norman Writing, and French way, I find it it in Old Deeds written Puls-ey; but in our common Language ancient∣ly, as the Countrey People at this day, did call a Pool a Poo; and thence it was deno∣minated Poo's-ey-Chappel. It was built in the Reign of Henry the Third; and the Pri∣or and Convent of Norton granted to Hugh Son of Hugh de Dutton, that they would find a Chaplain to Officiate at Poos-ey for ever, and a Lamp burning at the time of Divine Service, about 1236. 20 Hen. 3. Lib. C. fol. 155. r. which Chappel was con∣stantly frequented by the Neighborhood, until Robert Lord Kilmorey and Dame Eli∣nour his Wife came to live at Dutton, even in our days; who beautified the Domestick Chappel at Dutton with handsom Pews, and kept a Chaplain in his House constantly, whereunto all the Neighborhood resorted every Sunday: Then began Poosey Chappel to be neglected, and is now totally in decay, some part of the Structure yet remain∣ing, 1666.

Now followeth the Pedegree of the Duttons of Dutton, faithfully Collected from the Evidences of that Family, and other good Records and Deeds.

I. Odard, or Udard, sometimes also written Ho∣dard

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Quarterly, Argent & Gules, in the second and third Quarters a Fret Or.

and Hudard, came into England with William the Conqueror, and seated himself at Dutton; a good part whereof Hugh Lupus Earl of Chester gave unto him, as before you have heard out of Doomsday-book.

The ancient Roll of the Barons of Halton saith, That with Hugh Earl of Chester came one Nigell a Nobleman; and with Nigell came five Brethren, to wit, Hudard, Edard, Wolmere, Horswyne, and Wol∣faith, a Priest, to whom Nigell gave the Church of Runcorne; and unto Hudard the same Nigell gave Weston and Great Aston (now divided into two Town∣ships, Aston Grange, and Aston juxtà Sutton) pro uno Feodo Militis: And from this Hudard came all the Duttons. Lib. C. fol. 84, 85. & Monasticon Anglicanum, 2 Pars, pag. 187. And in the

Record of Doomsday, Odard held Aston under William Fitz-Nigell Baron of Halton; and also Odard and Brictric held Weston under the said William, Anno Domini 1086. Whe∣ther those five Brethren afore-named, were Brethren to Nigell, is a doubt; for then methinks he should have said,—Quinque Fratres sui: whereas he says onely, Cùm isto Nigello venerunt quinque Fratres, and so names them.

This Hudard's, or Odard's Sword, is at this day, 1665. in the Custody of the Lady Elinour Vicountess Kilmorey, sole Daughter and Heir of Thomas Dutton late of Dutton Esquire, deceased; which Sword hath for many Ages past been preserved, and passed over from Heir to Heir as an Heir-loom, by the name of Hudard's Sword; and so at this day it is by Tradition received and called. Lib. C. fol. 163. dd.

II. Hugh Son of Hodard had those Lands which he held in Capite, or immediately of the Earl of Chester, confirmed unto him by Randle the Second, sirnamed de Gernoniis, Earl of Chester, about the latter end of Henry the First. Lib. C. fol. 154. b. These Lands I conceive were those which he held in Dutton.

III. Hugh de Dutton, Son of Hugh, Son of Hodard, had the Lands which his Father Hugh held of the Baron of Halton confirmed unto him by William Son of Nigell, Con∣stable to Randle the Second, and by William his Son, on that day when the said William the Father and William the Son did visit Hugh, the Son of Hodard on his Death-bed at Kekwick; at which time Hugh the 8on of Hodard gave unto William the Father his Coat of Mail and his Charging-Horse; and Hugh, the Son of that Hugh, gave unto William the Son a Palfrey and a Sparrow-hawk. This was about the end of the Reign of King Henry the First: Lib. C. fol. 154. a. The Lands here confirmed I conceive to be Weston and Kekwick, and perhaps some others.

This Hugh de Dutton had Issue Hugh Dutton Son and Heir; Adam de Dutton, another Son, from whom the Warburtons of Arley are descended; Geffrey de Dutton, another Son, from whom the Duttons of Chedill in this County were propagated, who assu∣med the Sir-name of Chedill, and continued to the Reign of Edward the Third, till Sir Roger de Chedill (the last of that Family) dying 1 Edw. 3. 1327. left his Inheri∣tance to be shared by his two Daughters and Heirs, Clemence and Agnes: Lib. C. fol. 61. h. Lib. B. pag. 10. q. Lib. C. fol. 150. c. a. b. & fol. 150. l. And out of that Fa∣mily de Chedill branched Hamon Dutton under Edward the First, younger Son to Sir Geffrey Dutton of Chedill, to whom his Father gave Ashley* 37.52, which he purchased for him. The Posterity of this Hamon assumed the Sir-name of Ashley from the Place of their Residence, as was the manner of those Ages; which Family of the Ashley's of Ashley continued to the end of Henry the Eighth; about which time Thomasin, Daugh∣ter and Heir of George Ashley of Ashley Esquire, brought that Inheritance to Richard Brereton of Lea-Hall, not far from Middlewich, by Marriage, who was a younger Son of Sir William Brereton of Brereton in this County; in which Name of Brereton of Ashley it continued but four Descents, and was divided among the three Sisters of Thomas Brereton (the last Brereton of Ashley) and their Heirs, Anno Domini 1661. See more hereof above in Ashley.

IV. Hugh Dutton of Dutton, Son of Hugh, married _____ _____ Daughter of Hamon Massy Baron of Dunham-Massy, regnante Henrico Secundo; with whom her Father gave in Free Marriage Lands in Suttersby, in Lindsey in Lincolnshire: Lib. C. fol. 154. e. and had Issue† 37.53 Hugh Dutton eldest Son, Thomas Dutton, John Dutton, Adam Dutton. He purchased Little Moldesworth for fifty Marks, from Robert Son of Matthew de Moldes∣worth, about 1250. Lib. C. fol. 146. r. v. Also Alice Wife of William Boydell of Do∣deston, Lib. C. fol. 139. a. b.

This Hugh Dutton bought Preston nigh Dutton of Henry de Nuers and Julian his Wife,

reddendo octo Solidos annuatim, ad Festum Sancti Martini: Which Randle Blundevill, Earl of Chester, confirmed, about the Reign of King John. Lib. C. fol. 155. o. p.

He Purchased also the Town of Little Legh in Fee-farm from Simon Son of Os∣berne, rendring the yearly Rent of two Marks of Silver at the Feast of St. Martin: Lib. C. fol. 154. f. Which Rent is yet paid by his Heirs to the Earl of Derby, as of his Mannor of Harden, Anno Domini 1666. And Roger Lacy, Constable of Cheshire, and Baron of Halton, acquitted this Hugh Dutton de Judice de Leghâ, that is, of finding a Judger to serve at Halton for Little Legh yearly, about the Reign of Richard the First, or beginning of King John's Reign. Lib. C. fol. 154. g.

He Purchased also the Moiety of Barnton from William, Son of Henry, Son of Serlo, which Robert de Mesnilwarin held. Lib. C. fol. 155. I.

He had also the Magistracy, or Rule and Authority,* 37.54 over all the Letchers and Whores of all Cheshire, granted unto him and his Heirs, by John Constable of Che∣shire, and Baron of Halton, as freely as the said John held the same of the Earl of Che∣ster; saving the Right of the said John to him and his Heirs: Which are the very words of the Deed, onely rendred by me in English: Lib. C. fol. 154. h. So that he holds it, as it were, under the Baron of Halton, who reserves his own Right by a spe∣cial Reservation.

This Privilege over such loose Persons was granted first unto Roger Lacy Constable of Cheshire, under Richard the First, by Randle sir-named Blundevill, Earl of Chester, in memory of his good Service done to the Earl in raising the Siege of the Welsh-men, who had beset the Earl in his Castle of Rothelent in Flintshire: For the Constable ha∣ving got a promiscuous Rabble of such like Persons together, and Marching towards the said Castle, the Welsh (supposing a great Army to be coming) raised their Siege, and fled: So saith the ancient Roll of the Barons of Halton: Lib. C. fol. 85. b. Mo∣nasticon Anglicanum, 2 Pars, pag. 187. This Roll saith, that Rabble consisted of Play∣ers, Fidlers, and Shoe-makers. The Deed here toucheth Letchers and Whores. The Privilege and Custom used at this day by the Heirs of Dutton, is over the Minstrelsie and Common Fidlers; none being suffered to Play in this County, without the Li∣cence of the Lord of Dutton, who keeps a Court at Chester yearly, on Midsomer-day, for the same, where all the Licenced Minstrels of Cheshire do appear, and renew their Li∣cences: So that the Custom seems to have been altered to the Fidlers, as necessary Attendants on Revellers in Bawdy-houses and Taverns.

And it is to be observed, That those Minstrels which are Licensed by the Heirs of Dutton of Dutton, within the County Palatine of Chester, or the County of the City of Chester, according to their ancient Custom, are exempted out of the Statute of Rogues, 39 Eliz. cap. 4.

VI. Hugh Dutton of Dutton, Son and Heir of Hugh, lived 1234. 18 Hen. 3. He Purchased from Richard de Aston, Son of Gilbert de Aston, six Bovates of Land in Aston juxtà Dutton, in the beginning of the Reign of Henry the Third; Lib. C. fol. 155. q. Which Land belongs to Dutton-Demain at this day, 1666.

He also built Poosey Chappel about 20 Hen. 3. 1236. of which I have spoken be∣fore: Lib. C. fol. 155. r. which undoubtedly stood upon part of that Land bought from Aston; for that Chappel is in Runcorne Parish.

This Hugh gave to John his Brother the third part of all the Town of Bolinton in Maxfield Hundred, which Thomas le Dispenser gave in Free-marriage Hugoni Patri meo cùm Murielâ Matre meâ: Lib. C. fol. 139. b. The Original Penès Downes of Shrigley, 1654. Which Deed was made about the Year of Christ 1234.

This Hugh de Dutton died without Issue, and Thomas his Brother succeeded Heir. Lib. C. fol. 139. c.

VII. Sir Thomas Dutton of Dutton, Brother and Heir to Hugh, lived Anno Domini 1249. 33 Hen. 3. & 1268. 53 Hen. 3. He Purchased Clatterwigge, a Hamlet in Little Legh juxtà Barterton, from Hugh de Clatterwigge, about 1244. 29 Hen. 3. Lib. C. fol. 156. t.

He built the Chappel at the Mannor-House of Dutton, towards the end of Henry the Third's Reign: Lib. C. fol. 155. S.

He married Philippa Daughter and Heir of Vivian de Sandon, or Standon, by whom he had Lands in Staffordshire; and had Issue Hugh Dutton, Son and Heir; Thomas, ano∣ther Son, to whom his Father gave Great Rownall and Little Rownall in Staffordshire, by the consent of Philippa his Wife: Lib. C. fol. 147. d. & fol. 156. v. But I conceive this younger Son Thomas died. without Issue, because I find Philippa in her Widow∣hood granting these two Mannors of Rownall to Sir Robert Dutton her other Son, and to Agnes his Wife, Daughter of William de Mere in Staffordshire: Lib. C. fol. 156. w. Margaret, a Daughter, married William Venables, Son and Heir of Roger Venables of Kinderton, 38 Hen. 3. 1253. Lib. H. num. 40. And Katharine married John Son of Vrian de Sancto Petro. So I find it in an old Pedegree.

This Sir Thomas was Sheriff of Cheshire 1268. 53 Hen. 3. Lib. A. fol. 143. o. He died in the beginning of the Reign of Edward the First.

Philippa was living a Widow 1290, & 1294. Lib. C. fol. 156. x. & bb.

VIII. Sir Hugh Dutton of Dutton Knight, Son and Heir of Sir Thomas, bound him∣self to the Abbot of Vale-Royal, to make a Foot-Bridge at Acton, and to find a Boat and Ferry-man at Acton-Ford, about 1286: Lib. C. fol. 156. aa. The same is now made a County-Bridge.

He also was bound to William Gerard his Squire in unâ Robâ Armigerorum annuatìm ad totam vitam suam ad Festum Natalis Domini, 13 Edw. 1. 1285. Lib. C. fol. 156. z.

He Purchased Barterton, and married Joan Daughter of Sir Vrian de Sancto Petro, vulgò Sampier; I have no Authority for this, but an old Pedegree: And had Issue Hugh Dutton, Son and Heir; and William Dutton, who married Maud Daughter and Co-heir to Sir Richard Stockport of Stockport, 1305. Lib. C. fol. 146. k. Which William, with others, was Indicted 35 Edw. 1. for taking away the said Maud by force from Dunham-Massy, being then in the Custody of Haemon Massy; whom they took out of her Cham∣ber into the Court, stripping her of all her Clothes save her Smock, saith the Re∣cord: Lib. C. fol. 215. a. Robert Dutton, Parson of Eccleston, 1320. Lib. C. fol. 157. II. Also Margaret, a Daughter: Lib. C. fol. 255. d.

[Obiit 1294] This Sir Hugh died 22 Edw. 1. 1294. Lib. C. fol. 156. bb. Joan his Lady survived; she was living 1298. Lib. C. fol. 157. cc.

IX. Sir Hugh Dutton of Dutton Knight, Son and Heir of Sir Hugh, born the eighth day of December, 5 Edw. 1. 1276. at Dutton; and Baptized at Great Budworth the day following: Lib. C. fol. 139. y. He sued the Prior of Norton before Adam Burum and Nicolas Gruchundelée, Commissaries of the Bishop of Lichfield and Coventry, at the Visitation of the Arch-Deanery of Chester, Anno Domini 1315. for not finding a Chap∣lain and Lamp at Poosey Chappel, according to the Original Grant, which he there produced: And John Olton, then Prior, confessed the same, and was ordered to find them: Lib. C. fol. 146. m. This Priory was of the Order of St. Augustine.

He married Joan Daughter of Sir Robert Holland of Holland in Lancashire, and had Issue Thomas Dutton, Son and Heir; William, Parson of Thornton, 22 Edw. 3. Lib. C. fol. 157. ee. & fol. 180. l. Geffrey Dutton, another Son: Robert Dutton, another Son: Lib. C. fol. 157. ee. kk. 11 Edw. 3.

[Obiit 1326] This Sir Hugh was made Steward of Halton 24 Decembris, 20 Edw. 2. Lib. C. fol. 180 m. and died 1 Edw. 3. 1326. at the Age of fifty Years.

Joan his Widow afterwards married Edmund Talbot of Bashall; and after, to Sir John Ratcliff of Urdeshall in Lancashire, living 11 Edw. 3. & 20 Edw. 3. Lib. C. fol. 157. hh. kk. & fol. 157. f. g.

X. Sir Thomas Dutton of Dutton Knight, Son and Heir of Sir Hugh and Joan, was fifteen years old on Whitsunday, 1329. 3 Edw. 3. Lib. C. fol. 161. oo. He Purchased those Lands in Dutton which formerly belonged to Halton-Fee; and also those Lands

in Dutton which formerly belonged to Boydell of Dodleston; and so made the Township of Dutton entirely his own: Lib. C. fol. 158. b. c. as I have more particularly shewed before.

This Thomas was made Seneschal, Governor, and Receiver of the Castle and Ho∣nour of Halton in Cheshire, by William Clinton Earl of Huntington; and also of all his Lands and Mannors in Cheshire and Lancashire, quamdiù benè se gesserit which the Earl Farmed unto him for 440 Marks yearly: Dated at Maxstock, 19 Edw. 3. Lib. C. fol. 145. d.

It seems he was Indicted, for that he and others came with Armed Power (when King Edward the Third was out of England) within the Verge of the Lodgings of Lio∣nell the King's Son, Protector of England, and assaulted the Mannor of Geaumes nigh Reading in Wiltshire, and there slew Michael Poynings the Uncle, and Thomas le Clerke of Shipton, and others, and committed a Rape on Margery the Wife of one Nicolas de la Beche, for which the King pardoned him; and he found Sir Bernard Brocas, Sir Hugh Berewyk, Philip Durdanyt, and John Haydoke, his Sureties in the Chancery for his good abearing, 26 Edw. 3. Lib. C. fol. 153. d. [ 1352]

He was by several Commissions employed for the apprehending of certain Malefa∣ctors, Robbers, and Disturbers of the Peace in this County. One is directed unto him by the name of Thomas Dutton Equitator in Forestâ de Marâ, and to Richard Done Forester of the same Forest, 14 Edw. 3. Lib. C. fol. 181. v. & fol. 164. e.

Anno Domini 1379. 3 Rich. 2. William Eltonhed Prior of the Hermit-Fryars of the Order of St. Augustine at Warrington in Lancashire, and the Convent there, grant to Sir Thomas Dutton Knight a perpetual Chantry; to wit, That a sufficient Fryar of the Convent of Warrington shall be especially elected to pray for the Salvation of Sir Thomas, his Children, and of Philippa his Wife, and her Parents; and for the Soul of Dame Ellen late Wife of the said Sir Thomas, their Children and Parents when they shall die, at the Great Altar of their Church yearly for ever; and that their Names be written down in their Martyrology: Whereunto the Prior and Convent were bound under a Penalty of 3 s. 4 d. to be levied by the Provincial Prior upon omission of such Form of Service; and if for a Week or a Fortnight it were omitted, then must they double the time omitted in manner aforesaid: If neglected for six Months, then upon pain of Suspension: If for a Year, then upon Excommunication, until the time omitted be made up: Whereunto are Witnesses, Thomas Abbot of St. Werburge of Chester, Stephen Abbot of Vale-Royal, Richard Prior of Norton, and Roger Prior of Berkenhed.

This was confirmed by Henry de Towesdale Provincial Prior of the Hermit-Fryars of the Order of St. Augustine in England, with a special Injunction, That the said Persons be yearly twice Commemorated before the whole Convent; once at the first entrance of the Prior of Warrington into the Convocation-house yearly; the other time, on the Election-day of a Fellow-Prior for a Provincial Convocation. Dated at Warring∣ton on Sunday next after the Feast of St. Martin, Anno supradicto. Lib. C. fol. 167. a.

This Sir Thomas Sealed usually with his Coat of Arms and Crest, to wit, Quarter∣ly, a Fret in the second and third; over which, upon the Dexter-Angle of the Esco∣cheon, a Helmet, and thereon a Plume of Feathers.

Anno Domini 1344. Robert Monning of Tatenhale grants to Thomas de Dutton and his Heirs all the Magistracy of the Minstrels, cùm omnibus pertinentiis, prout in Chartâ Originali plemùs continetur: Lib. C. fol. 158. h. I conceive he was but a Feoffee.

This Thomas was Sheriff of Cheshire 30 & 33 Edw. 3. and was a Knight 35 Edw. 3. He married two Wifes: The first was Ellen one of the Daughters and Heirs of Sir Peter Thornton of Thornton, the eldest Daughter, Lib. C. fol. 162. t. by whom he had Issue Sir Peter Dutton, who died without Issue 35 Edw. 3. Lib. C. fol. 158. e. Thomas Dutton, another Son, died also without Issue: Lawrence Dutton succeeded Heir to his Father: Edmund Dutton, another Son: Henry Dutton, fifth Son; and William Dutton another Son: Lib. C. fol. 158. d. f. g. & fol. 157. mm.

His second Wife was Philippa the Widow of Sir Peter Thornton. She was (as I con∣ceive)

a later Wife to Sir Peter Thornton, not Mother of the Co-heirs: Lib. C. fol. 164. m. & 167. a. & 148. k. [Obiit 1381]

This Sir Tomas Dutton died 4 Rich. 2. 1381. aged sixty six Years: Lib. C. fol. 159. I.

Philippa his Widow died 13 Rich. 2. 1389. Lib. C. fol. 162. T.

Edmund Dutton, younger Son of Sir Thomas, married Joan Daughter and Heir of Henry Minshull de Church-Minshull, by whom he had the Mannors of Church-Minshull and Aston-Mondram;* 37.55 and had Issue Sir Peter Dutton, who became Heir to his Uncle Sir Lawrence Dutton of Dutton: Hugh Dutton, second Son, of whom the Duttons of Hatton nigh Warton in Cheshire, whose Posterity afterwards, in process of time, be∣came Heirs of Dutton-Lands under Henry the Eighth: Lawrence Dutton, another Son; and Thomas Dutton, another Son: Lib. C. fol. 163. x. & 145. g. Agnes de Dutton, a Daughter, married William Leycester of Nether-Tabley, 1398. 22 Rich. 2. A. num. 5. Penès me: And Ellen, another Daughter: Lib. C. fol. 159. s.

This Edmund died before his Brother Sir Lawrence; and Joan his Widow after∣wards married William de Hooton, and had Issue by him. Joan died 11 Rich. 2. 1387. Lib. C. fol. 163. x. at which time Peter Dutton, her Son and Heir, was twenty Years old.

XI. Sir Lawrence Dutton of Dutton Knight, Son and Heir to Sir Thomas, had two Wifes, Alice and Margaret; but who was Father to either of them, I find not. He had no Issue by either, leaving his Inheritance to descend to Peter Dutton, eldest Son of Edmund Dutton his younger Brother: Lib. C. fol. 159. q. I.

Sir Lawrence was a Knight 44 Edw. 3. and Sheriff of Cheshire 44, 45, 46 Edw. 3. and also 1 Rich. 2. Lib. C. fol. 159. m.

He had four Parts of the seven of Thornton's Estate. One Part he had as Son and Heir to Ellen, eldest Daughter and Co-heir of Sir Peter de Thornton: He purchased the Part of Elizabeth, late Wife of Roger Venables of Golborne (Daughter and Heir of Margaret Wife of William de Golborne, which Margaret was another of the Daughters and Heirs of Sir Peter de Thornton) 12 Rich. 2. Lib. C. fol. 159. o. Another Part he pur∣chased from Matthew de Weverham, Son and Heir of Hugh de Weverham and Emme his Wife, another of the Daughters and Heirs of Sir Peter de Thornton, 14 Rich. 2. 1391. Lib. C. fol. 159. p. The Part of Katharine, who was Out-lawed for Felony, Thomas Dutton his Father had formerly bought of the Prince: Lib. C. fol. 162. T. Mary, ano∣ther Daughter and Co-heir, had the Mannor of Helsby; she died without Issue. Maud, another Daughter and Co-heir, married Henry Beeston of Beeston. Elizabeth, another Daughter and Co-heir, married Hamon Fitton of Bollin, and had Issue Joan Daughter and Heir, Mother of William Venables of Bollin.

Sir Lawrence had Licence from the Earl of Chester to carry away the Chappel of Kingsley, formerly belonging to Sir Peter de Thornton, being within the Boundary of the Forest: Lib. C. fol. 148. I. 45 Edw. 3.

He Sealed constantly with his Escocheon of Arms, Quarterly, a Fret in the second and third Quarters; inscribed about the Seal,—SIGIL. LAURENTII DE DUTTON MILITIS. Which very Seal was extant 1665. in possession of the Lady Kilmorey.

[Obiit 1392] He made his Will at Dutton, on Sunday, being the day after the Conversion of S. Paul, or 26 Januarii, Anno Domini 1392. 16 Rich. 2. wherein he Bequeaths his Body to be Buried at Norton, and gives his Black Horse before his Body to the Convent of Nor∣ton for a Heriot; also sixteen Torches, and five Tapers, about his Body on the Burial-day, with sixteen Poor Men in Gowns to carry the Lights; also ten Marks to the Poor, and thirty Pound to sufficient Chaplains to Celebrate for his Soul the next Year, two in the Parish Church of Budworth, and four others in the Chappel of Dut∣ton:—Also to Agnes and Ellen, Daughters of Edmund Dutton, forty Pounds for their Marriages;—and makes Margaret his Wife, and his Cosin Hugh Dutton, his Exe∣cutors, and the Abbot of Chester Overseer of his Will. Lib. C. fol. 159. s.

This Will was Proved the tenth day of February following, before William Neuhagh then Archdeacon of Chester.

So that Sir Lawrence died 1392. 16 Rich. 2. aged fifty three Years. Margaret his Widow married afterwards Sir William Brereton of Brereton, 21 Rich. 2. Lib. C. fol. 145. f.

XII. Sir Peter Dutton of Dutton Knight, Son and Heir of Edmund Dutton, which Edmund was younger Brother and next Heir to Sir Lawrence Dutton of Dutton. This Sir Peter married Elizabeth Daughter of Sir William Butler of Beusy, Lord of Warring∣ton: Lib. C. fol. 180. o. & 160. t. and had Issue Sir Thomas de Dutton, who married Alice Daughter of Sir John Stanley, but died without Issue about 9 Hen. 6. in the Life-time of his Father: Alice his Widow after married John Wolton,* 37.56 11 Hen. 6. ut per in∣quisitionem post mortem Johannis de Dutton, 24 Hen. 6. & Lib. C. fol. 147. x. y. John Dutton, second Son, who succeeded Heir to his Father: Richard Dutton, another Son, living 1440, & 1451. Lib. C. fol. 164. a. which Richard had Issue Lawrence Dutton se∣nior, 16 Hen. 7. who died without Issue, Lib. C. fol. 161. k. Parnell, Daughter of Sir Peter, married Hugh Venables Baron of Kinderton; after to Richard Booth, 29 Hen. 6. 1451. Lib. C. fol. 160. c. Elizabeth, another Daughter, married John Done Son and Heir of John Done of Utkinton the elder, 12 Hen. 4. 1410. Lib. C. fol. 164. f. Ellen, another Daughter, married Griffith Hanmere, Son and Heir of John Hanmere Esquire, 3 Hen. 6. 1424. Lib. C. fol. 179. d. And Sibill, another Daughter, married Geffrey Starky, Son of Randle Starky of Stretton in Cheshire, Lib. C. fol. 134. l.

Sir Peter Dutton was a Knight 7 Hen. 4. Lib. C. fol. 180. o. and also 5 Hen. 4. Lib. C. fol. 145. h.. The King granted him a Pardon for taking part with Henry Percy the Son, sir-named Hotspur: Dated at Cirencester, 3 Novembris, 5 Hen. 4. 1403.

He was made Lieutenant or Deputy in the Office of the Seneschalcy of the Coun∣ty of Chester, by Elizabeth Countess of Salisbury, while they both should live, and to be of Council with her; for which Service she gave him two Marks Annual Rent, which he ought to pay her for his Lands of Little Legh, held of her Castle of Harden, during the Term aforesaid; 1408. 10 Hen. 4. Lib. C. fol. 164. b.

Great Contention fell between this Sir Peter Dutton, and Sir William Athurton of Athurton in Lancashire; insomuch that they made Inroads and Invasions one upon the other: And the said Sir Piers Dutton, and his Adherents. to wit, Sir Rafe Bostock of Bostock, Richard Warburton of Budworth, Thomas Warburton of Halton, John Done of Utkinton junior, John Manley of Manley, Hugh Dutton of Hatton the elder, William Ley∣cester of Nether-Tabley, Sir Peter Legh of Clifton (Ancestor to Legh of Lyme), and John Carington of Carington, were all sued by Sir William Athurton, for taking away forty of his Oxen, and forty Cows, out of his Closes at Athurton, and for beating of his Servants. But this Variance was composed between them by the Award of John Duke of Bedford, Earl of Richmond and Kendall, Constable of England, and Regent of the Kingdom in the absence of Henry the Fifth; Dated 9 Aprilis, 7 Hen. 5. 1419. Restitution being awarded on both sides: The Horses and Saddles taken by Sir Wil∣liam Athurton, to be restored to Sir Piers Dutton; and the Cattel taken by Sir Piers, to be restored to the said Sir William: Lib. C. fol. 146. n.

Sir Peter de Dutton was made Parcarius de Northwood, or Governor of Northwood Park in Over-Whitley, during his Life, with all the Fees thereof, 1 Hen. 6. 1423.* 37.57 Out of which he had Orders from William Harrington, Chief Steward of Halton under Henry Archbishop of Canterbury, and other Feoffees of King Henry the Fifth, to de∣liver one Oak for the Repair of Witton Bridge, then in decay; and another for the Repair of Farnworth Chappel: Dated 9 Hen. 6. Lib. C. fol. 147. w.

Sir Peter died 12 Hen. 6. 1433. aged sixty six Years: [Obiit 1433] Lib. C. fol. 147. x. y. & fol. 163. x.

XIII. John Dutton of Dutton Esquire, Son and Heir of Sir Peter, married Margaret Daughter of Sir John Savage of Clifton, 6 Hen. 5. 1418. Lib. C. fol. 160. w. and had Issue Thomas Dutton, Son and Heir; Roger Dutton, another Son, afterwards Lord of Dutton; John Dutton, slain with his Brother Sir Thomas Dutton at Blore-Heath, 1459.

Stow. Robert Dutton, another Son, died without Issue: Lib. C. fol. 180. k. Margaret married Hugh Son and Heir of Raufe Egerton, 21 Hen. 6. 1443. Lib. C. fol. 147. b. Maud married Sir William Booth of Dunham-Massy, 21 Hen. 6. 1443. Lib. C. fol. 164. g. Agnes married Richard Wynnington of Wynnington nigh Northwich (Son and Heir of Ro∣bert Wynnington, Son and Hir of Sir Richard Wynnington) 25 Hen. 6. 1446. Lib. C. fol. 160. y. Ellen married Edward Son and Heir of Richard Longford of Lancashire Esq 28 Hen. 6. 1450. Lib. C. fol. 160. a. Elizabeth married John Merbury, Son and Heir of James Merbury of Merbury nigh Comberbach, Esquire, 1458. The Original penès Tho∣mam Merbury Armigerum, 1666.

[Obiit 1445] This John Dutton of Dutton died 24 Hen. 6. 1445. aged forty two Years: Lib. C. fol. 160. y. z. Margaret his Wife survived, and was living 1450.

XIV. Sir Thomas Dutton of Dutton Knight, Son and Heir of John and Margaret, married Anne Daughter of James Lord Audley, and had Issue Peter eldest Son, slain with his Father at the Battel of Blore-Heath, as Tradition hath it: John Dutton, se∣cond Son, who succeeded Heir to his Father: Anno married Sir Thomas Molineaux of Sefton in Lancashire: Isabel married Sir Christopher Sotheworth of Sotheworth in Lanca∣shire:* 37.58 Elizabeth married Raufe Bostock of Bostock in Davenham Parish in Cheshire, Esq by whom he had Issue Anne Daughter and Heir, married to Sir John Savage of Clifton in Cheshire, juxtà Halton; which Elizabeth, after the death of Raufe Bostock, married Thomas Scriven of Frodsley in Shropshire, and she died Anno Domini 1516. 5 die Febru∣arii, 8 Hen. 8. Lib. C. fol. 139. x. Margaret, another Daughter of Sir Thomas Dut∣ton, married Thomas Aston of Aston juxtà Sutton, Esquire, 7 Edw. 4. 1467. After∣wards she married Raufe Vernon of Haslington in Cheshire, Esquire: And Elinour, ano∣ther Daughter, married Richard Cholmondley of Cholmondley in Broxton Hundred, Esq Lib. C. fol. 161. I. n.

[Obiit 1459] This Sir Thomas was slain at the Battel of Blore-Heath in Staffordshire, September 23. 38 Hen. 6. 1459. Stow in his Annals: and in the thirty eighth Year of his Age.

Anne his Widow afterwards married Hugh Done of Olton in Cheshire; and she died 19 Hen. 7. 1503. Lib. C. fol. 162. v.

XV. John Dutton of Dutton Esquire, Son and Heir of Sir Thomas and Anne, was made Steward to the Prior of Norton for his Life, of all the Lands and Tenements belonging to that Priory, Robert Leftwich being then Abbot of Norton; and for which the said John Dutton had three Pound yearly for his Fee: Dated at Norton, in September, 38 Hen. 6. 1459. Lib. C. fol. 145. c.

He married Margaret Daughter of Richard, and Sister to Sir Thomas Molineaux of Sefton in Lancashire; [Obiit 1473] but died without Issue 13 Edw. 4. 1473. leaving Roger Dutton his Uncle to succeed in his Estate: Lib. C. fol. 160. d. e.

Margaret his Widow married William Buckley of Eaton junior, 15 Edw. 4. Lib. C. fol. 160. b.

XVI. Roger Dutton of Dutton Esquire (younger Brother to Sir Thomas, and Heir to his Nephew John Dutton) married Joan Daughter of Sir Richard Aston of Aston juxtà Sutton, and had Issue Lawrence Dutton Son and Heir.

[Obiit 1499] This Roger died 14 Hen. 7. 1499. Joan his Widow afterwards married Sir Richard Strangewaies. Lib. C. fol. 162. v. & fol. 164. e.

XVII. Lawrence Dutton of Dutton Esquire, 14 Hen. 7. Son and Heir of Roger and Joan, [Obiit 1526] * 37.59 married Joan Daughter of Robert Duckenfield of Duckenfield in Cheshire Esquire; but died without any Lawful Issue, Anno Domini 1526. aged fifty Years: Lib. C. fol. 164. e. & fol. 161. k.

He had a Bastard-son, called John Dutton, to whom he gave the Messuage in Preston nigh Daresbery, called The New Mannor, for his Life; 1526. Lib. C. fol. 162. s. He had also two Bastard-daughters, Isabel and Joan.

Upon the sailing of the Issue Male of this Line of Dutton, there fell great Con∣troversie and Suits of Law concerning this fair Inheritance of Dutton, between Sir Piers Dutton of Hatton in Broxton Hundred, as next Heir Male, on the one part; and the Daughters and Co-heirs of Sir Thomas Dutton of Dutton, and their Heirs, on the other part. At last it was composed and ended by the Award of King Henry the Eighth, Dated the sixteenth day of May, 26 Hen. 8. 1534. and Confirmed by Act of Parliament 27 Hen. 8. Lib. C. fol. 163. y. after seven Years Suit, and above.

The Lands allotted to the Co-heirs were the Lordships of Church-Minshull, Aston in Mondrum, and Kekwick; and all the Lands which the Ancestors of Dutton hold in Kingsley, Norley, Chorleton Codynton, Pulton-Lancelyn, Bradley, Budword in le Frith, Milneton, Barnton, Over-Whitley, Aston nigh Moldesworth, Hellesby, Frodsham, and in the City of Chester.

The Lands allotted to Sir Piers Dutton of Hatton, and now adjudged the next Heir Male, were, The Mannor of Dutton, the Advowry of the Minstrels in Cheshire, the Advowson of Poosey Chappel, the Lordships of Weston, Preston, Barterton, Little Legh, Nesse in Wirrall, Little Moldesworth, Acton, and Harpesford; and all the Lands which the Ancestors of Dutton held in Weston, Clifton, Preston, Barterton, Legh, Nesse, Lit∣tle Moldesworth, Acton, Harpesford, Stony Dunham, Michbarrow, Stoke, Picton, Arrowe, North-wich, Halton, Thelwall, Oneston, Middle-wich, Stanthorne, and Over-Runcorne.

And now before we proceed to the next Lord of Dutton, we must look back to the first Ancestor of this Sir Piers Dutton of Hatton, which branches out of the Family of Dutton of Dutton, and bring that Line to this Sir Piers Dutton, and then proceed.

So then we find Hugh Dutton, the first Dutton of Hatton, in Right of Petronill his Wife, Daughter and Heir of Peter de Hatton juxtà Warton, branching out under Richard the Second. This Hugh was a younger Son of Edmund Dutton, which Ed∣mund was a younger Son of Sir Thomas Dutton of Dutton.

• ...

  1. This Hugh had Issue John Dutton, Son and Heir; Lawrence Dutton, another Son; Randle, Rector of Christleton nigh Chester; also Hugh, another Son, Lib. C. fol. 146. n. Elizabeth, a Daughter, married Richard Manley of Manley.

  Hugh Dutton of Hatton was Sheriff of Cheshire 10 Hen. 5. 1422. and had a second Wife, namely, Emme the Widow of Hugh Venables of Golborne, and Daughter of Nicolas Warren of Pointon, 16 Hen. 6. John Booth of Twamlow's Book of his own Collections, Lib. H. pag. 125. a. b.

• 2. John Dutton of Hatton, 19 Hen. 6. Son and Heir of Hugh and Parnell, was Mayor of Chester 30 Hen. 6. and married Margaret Daughter of William Athur∣ton of Athurton in Lancashire, and had Issue Peter, Son and Heir; Richard, ano∣ther Son; Geffrey, another Son: Cicely married John Byrd of Broxton: Ellen married one Gilibrand.
• 3. Peter Dutton of Hatton Esquire, Son and Heir of John, married Elizabeth eldest Daughter and one of the Heirs of Robert Grosvenour of Houlme in Allostock, Esquire, 1464. and had Issue Peter Dutton junior, Rafe, Richard, and Randle.
• ...

  4. Peter Dutton of Hatton Esquire, Son and Heir of Peter, married Elizabeth Daugh∣ter of Sir Robert Fouleshurst of Crew in Cheshire, and had Issue Sir Piers Dutton, who was adjudged next Heir Male to all Dutton Lands, 26 Hen. 8. Elizabeth married Sir George Calveley of Lea nigh Eaton-boat: Elinour married Randle Brereton of Malpas: Jane married George Leech of Carden.

  This Peter died about 20 Hen. 7. for Elizabeth his Widow married Thomas Leycester of Tabley Esquire, 22 Hen. 7. 1506. and she was the third Wife of the said Thomas Leycester. T. num. 1.

XVIII. Sir Piers Dutton of Hatton and Dutton both, Son and Heir of Peter Dutton of Hatton Esquire, was a Knight 19 Hen. 8. Lib. C. fol. 162. s. and adjudged next Heir Male to Lawrence Dutton of Dutton Esquire, 26 Hen. 8. 1534. Lib. C. fol. 163. y. He is the eighteenth Lord of Dutton since the Conquest, and the fifteenth Person in Lineal Descent from Odard. He built the Hall and New Buildings of Dutton-House, which he joyned to the Chappel, Anno 1539. before which time the House stood a little more remote from the Chappel.

He had two Wifes. Elinour Daughter of Thomas Legh of Adlington was his first Wife, by whom he had Issue Peter Dutton, eldest Son, who died without Issue; Hugh Dutton, second Son; Rafe Dutton, third Son, to whom his Father gave all Hatton Lands, from whom the Duttons of Hatton yet in being▪ 1666. are propagated: Ka∣tharine, a Daughter, married Sir Roger Pilston of Emrads; afterwards she married Ri∣chard Grosvenour, younger Son of the Grosvenours of Eaton-boat: Elizabeth married William Manley of Manley; afterwards she married Thomas Brown of Nether-Lee: Anne married to Hamnet Massy of Sale in Cheshire; after to Edward Barlow of Barlow in Lanca∣shire: Margery married John Booth, younger Son of Sir William Booth of Dunham-Mas∣sy: Margaret married Raufe Sherman: Mary married Matthew Ellis of Overley: Alice died unmarried. See the Inquisition post mortem praedicti Petri Dutton Militis, 37 Hen. 8. which names the Daughters; but their Husbands I had out of the Herald's Books.

Sir Piers married to his second Wife Julian Daughter of William Poyns of Wortho∣kiton in Essex, Esquire; who with her Husband built the Hall of Dutton, and the new Chambers there, 1539. as appears by the Inscription round about the Hall of Dutton, within the Hall.

[Obiit 1546] He was Sheriff of Cheshire 34 Hen. 8. and died 37 Hen. 8. 1546. and had a Bastard∣son, called John Dutton, and a Bastard-daughter, called Elizabeth, as appears by the Office taken after his death.

Hugh Dutton, second Son, and Heir to Sir Piers, married Jane Daughter of Sir William Booth of Dunham-Massy, 12 Hen. 8. Lib. C. fol. 167. and had Issue John Dut∣ton, Son and Heir; and Anne, married to Cristopher Son and Heir of Thomas Holford of Holford nigh Nether-Tabley in Cheshire, Esquire.

This Hugh died in the Life-time of Sir Piers his Father, and Jane his Widow mar∣ried Thomas Holford aforesaid.

XIX. John Dutton of Dutton Esquire, Son and Heir of Hugh, and Grandson to Sir Piers, married Elinour Daughter of Sir Hugh Calveley of Lea nigh Eaton-boat, and had Issue Peter, eldest Son, who married Elizabeth Daughter and Heir of Richard Massy of Aldford in Cheshire, 27 Eliz. 1585. Lib. C. fol. 163. aa. and died the thirtieth day of May, 35 Eliz. 1593. without Issue Male of his Body then living, in the Life-time of his Father: See John Dutton's Office, 7 Jacobi. Also John Dutton, second Son; and Hugh, third Son, both died without Issue; Thomas, fourth Son, succeeded Heir to his Father: Lawrence, Raufe, Adam, Geffrey, and George, all five died without Issue: Jane died unmarried: Anne married one Hersey; and Elinour died unmarried.

This John had also John Dutton Bastard-son, who was after Gardiner at Dutton, and died 1664. And Elizabeth, a Bastard-daughter, married Mr. Marshall Chaplain to the Lord Gerard of Gerards-Bromley in Staffordshire, Mother to the two famous Women-Actors now at London, called The two Marshals.

The same John sued Raufe Dutton of Hatton his Uncle, for all Hatton Lands, as Heir at Law: But this Suit was composed by the Award of Robert Earl of Leycester, the fifth day of July, 14 Eliz. 1572. wherein he gave to John Dutton the Lands of Claver∣ton, and in Honbridge in the City of Chester, and in Littleton in Cheshire, and the Lands in Harden and Mancote in Flintshire, and also 500 Marks to be paid by Raufe Dutton to the said John: And all the rest of Hatton Lands he continued and gave to Raufe Dutton. Lib. C. fol. 168. b.

John Dutton of Dutton died the thirtieth day of January, 6 Jacobi, 1608. at Dutton, [Obiit 1608] aged seventy Years. See the Office taken 7 Jacobi.

XX. Thomas Dutton of Dutton Esquire, Son and Heir of John, married Thomasin Daughter of Roger Anderton, younger Brother of Anderton of Anderton in Lancashire, and Widow to John Singleton of Stany in Lancashire; by whom he had Issue John Dutton, who married Elizabeth eldest Daughter and Coheir of Sir Thomas Egerton, late Son of Sir Thomas Egerton Lord Chancellor of England, 3 Jacobi, 1605. Lib. C. fol. 163. bb. But this John died without Issue the ninth day of February, 6 Jacobi, 1608. at Tarvin, in the Life-time of Thomas his Father: Also Elinour, a Daughter, who became sole Heir to her Father.

This Thomas Dutton of Dutton was Sheriff of Cheshire 1611. 9 Jacobi, and died 1614. 12 Jacobi, aged forty six Years: Lib. C. fol. 163. dd. ee. Elinour his Daughter and Heir being then aged eighteen Years.

Thomasin his Widow afterwards married Sir Anthony St. John, younger Brother to the Earl of Bolingbroke; but had no Issue by him. She was second Wife to Sir Antho∣ny, and he was third Husband to her.

XXI. Elinour, sole Daughter and Heir of Thomas Dutton, married Gilbert Gerard, Son and Heir of Thomas Gerard Lord Gerard of Gerards-Bromley in Staffordshire, 7 Jacobi, 1609. she being then but thirteen Years old: Lib. C. fol. 163. cc. Gilbert was after∣wards Sir Gilbert Gerard Knight of the Bath, 30 Maii, 1610. at the Creation of Hen∣ry, eldest Son of King James, into the Title of Prince of Wales and Earl of Chester: And after the death of Thomas Lord Gerard his Father, he was then Gilbert Lord Ge∣rard, 1618. and had Issue Dutton Lord Gerard; and Thomas, who died in his Infancy: Also Alice, eldest Daughter, born in Chester 12 Junii, and Baptized 18 Junii, 1615. She married Roger Owen, Son and Heir of Sir William Owen of Cundor in Shropshire, who died 1660. and Alice his Wife after married Henry Heylyn of Oxfordshire, 1663. Ne∣phew to Dr. Peter Heylyn. Frances, second Daughter, married Robert Nedham, Son and Heir of Robert Viscount Kilmorcy, by whom he had onely one Child, called Elinour, which died young, 1643. Frances was Buried at Great Budworth, 25 Maii, 1636. she died in Child-bed: And Elizabeth, third Daughter, born at Gerards-Bromley in Staffordshire, Anno Christi 1620. married Peter Leycester of Nether-Tabley in Cheshire, Esquire, 6 Novembris, 1642. afterwards Sir Peter Leycester Baronet, 1660. the Author of this Book.

After the Death of Gilbert Lord Gerard, who died 1622. Elinour his Lady married Robert Nedham of Shenton in Shropshire, Viscount Kilmorey in Ireland: She was second Wife of Robert, and had Issue by him Charles Nedham, afterwards Lord Kilmorey, who died at London 1660. George, second Son, died at Chester without Issue, 1644. Thomas Nedham, third Son, now living, 1669. Arthur, another Son, died an Infant, over-laid by his Nurse: Anne died in her Infancy: Elinour first married Peter Warburton, Heir to Arley Estate, 1638. she was then but eleven Years old: But Peter dying without Issue, and under Age, of the Small Pox, at Oxford, Anno 1641. she married afterwards John Lord Byron of Newstede in Nottinghamshire, Anno 1644. then Governor of Chester, who died in France, without any Issue by her, Anno 1652. This Elinour (a Person of such comely Carriage and Presence, Handsomness, sweet Disposition, Honour, and general Repute in the World, that she hath scarce left her Equal behind) died at Chester the twenty sixth day of January, 1663. about the Age of thirty six Years, and was Buried in Trinity Church in that City. Susan, third Daughter, married Richard scriven of Frodsley in Shropshire, Esquire, 1652. She died in August, 1667. at Frodsley. Katharine, the fourth Daughter, died unmarried at Dutton, 11 Martii, being Sunday, 1665. Mary, fifth Daughter, now living, and unmarried, 1669. Penelope, sixth Daughter, married Randle Egerton of Betley in Staffordshire, Esquire, 1653. Dorothy, seventh Daughter, died unmarried at London in June, 1669. And Elizabeth, youngest Daughter, now living, and unmarried, 1669.

Robert Viscount Kilmorey died at Dutton 12 Septembris, 1653. So that the Lady Eli∣nour Kilmorey survived both her Husbands; in whose Custody Hudard's Sword, as Tradition hath it, now remains, whereof I made mention in the beginning.

This Lady Elinour died at Dutton the twelfth day of March, 1665. aged sixty nine Years; and her Daughter Katharine also dying at Dutton the day before, were both Interred at Great Budworth together on the Fryday following, being the sixteenth day of March, 1665.

So ended the Family of Dutton of Dutton.

Gropenhale.

THis Town of Gropenhale in the Conqueror's Time belonged to Osbern Son of Tezzon, Ancestor to the Boydells of Dodleston in this County.

Afterwards it seems to be given to William Son of Samson, who released the same to Hugh Boydell about the Reign of Richard the First, in these words:—

* 37.60Notum sit—Ego Willielmus Filius Samsonis, dedi & omnino relaxavi Domino meo Hugoni de Boydell pro defectu Servitii sui, quod retrò est, Gropenhale, cùm omnibus perti∣nentiis suis, in Bosco & Plano, &c. Salvo forinseco, scilicèt dimidiâ Parte trium Partium de Feodo unius Militis: Et pro hâc Donatione meâ Dictus Hugo de Boydele Dominus meus va∣lentiam trium Marcarum mihi donavit.—Testibus Radulpho de Manwaringe tùnc Justiciarto Cestriae, Hamone de Massy, &c. Lib. C. fol. 280. bb.

After this, Sir John Boydell, in the Reign of Edward the First, gives Caterich (a certain Place in Gropenhale) unto Robert his younger Son, who granted the same to Thomas Son of Sir Hugh Dutton of Dutton; but Thomas Dutton releaseth it unto William Son of Sir William Boydell of Dodleston, 16 Edw. 3. 1342. Lib. C. fol. 280. cc.

6 Edw. 2. the King granted to William Boydele liberam Warrennam in Dominicis Terris suis de Dodleston, Gropenhale, & Lachford: Lib. C. fol. 282. r. This William Boydell married Maud Daughter of Raufe Vernon, and had Issue Raufe Boydell, who died with∣out Issue; and so the Inheritance of Boydell was shared by the two Sisters and Co-heirs of William Boydell aforesaid, to wit, Margaret Wife of Owen Voil a Welshman, and Joan Wife of Sir John Danyell of Gropenhale, younger Son of Thomas Danyers of Bradley in Appleton senior, and afterwards Heir to his Father.

Howel ap Owen Voil released to Sir John and Joan all his Purparty of Gropenhale-Wood, 25 Edw. 3. Lib. C. fol. 291. f. The Original hereof is now among the Evi∣dences of Legh of Lime, 1666.

42 Edw. 3. Sir John and Joan Levied a Fine of the Mannor of Gropenhale, To re∣main to the Heirs Males of the said John and Joan; and if Sir John had no Heir by Joan, then one half of Gropenhale should revert to the Heirs of Sir John, and the other half to the Heirs of Joan. Lib. C. fol. 242. v. & fol. 290. a.

Sir John Daniell had Issue by Joan a Daughter and Heir, called Nicolaa, Mother of Margaret Wife of Alan de Rixton in Lancashire; which Margaret dying without Issue, 6 Rich. 2. Margaret the Wife of John Savage of Clifton, Daughter and Heir of Sir Thomas Daniell of Bradley the younger, elder Brother of the said Sir John Daniell, had the Purpart of the said Lands, as one of the Heirs of Margaret late Wife of Alan de Rixton, 9 Rich. 2. And Thomas Boydell (Son of William sir-named Boydell, Son of Howell, Son of Margaret Sister of Joan, Mother of Nicolaa) was the other Heir: Lib. C. fol. 290. c. whose Land was after divided, as anon shall appear.

Margaret Wife of John Savage, afterwards married Piers Legh of Maxfield, 1388. 12 Rich. 2. younger Son of Robert Legh of Adlington; and she gave unto Peter Legh of Lyme, her Son, the Moiety of Gropenhale, 4 Hen. 4. in her Widowhood, which she

had as Heir to Margaret late Wife of Alan de Rixton; from whom the Leghs of Lime, now Lord of the moiety of Gropenhale, 1666. Lib. C. fol. 290. d. The Originals Pe∣nes Legh of Lime.

The other Moiety of Gropenhale, descending to Thomas Boydell aforesaid,* 37.61 came to the Part of Hugh Reddish of Caterich (younger Son of Reddish of Reddish in Lancashire) in Right of Margaret his Wife, Daughter and Co-heir of Thomas Boydell, by Partiti∣on made of all Thomas Boydell's Lands, 5 Hen. 5. Lib. C. fol. 282. I.

Isabell, the other Daughter and Co-heir of Thomas Boydell, married John Alburg∣ham; whose Son Gilbert had also two Daughters and Heirs; Constance Wife of Henry Byrom of Byrom in Lancashire, and Isabel Wife of James Holte, 3 Hen. 7.

The Part belonging to Reddish of Caterich, came to William Merbury of Merbury Esq in Right of Maud his Wife, Daughter and Heir of Thomas Reddish of Caterich in Gro∣penhale, Anno 1556. Lib. C. fol. 284. P. whose Heirs have ever since enjoyed the same, to this present, 1666.

In this Township hath been anciently, and yet is, a Parish-Church Dedicated to St. Wilfrid, whose Feast of Dedication was usually Celebrated the twelfth day of October yearly; and hath onely two Townships in its Parish, to wit,—

	The Mize.
	l.	s.	d.
Gropenhale	00	14	00
Lachford	00	10	00
	01	04	00

I find Gropenhale Church was a Rectory in the Reign of Henry the Third, Lib. C. fol. 283. x. and had then the Boydells of Dodleston for its Patron, who were Lords of Gro∣penhale and Lachford both: But now Byrom of Byrom in Lancashire hath the Advowson hereof, 1666.

Sir William Boydell of Dodleston built a Chappel in this Church, wherein William Boydell his Son and Heir swore to find an honest Chaplain to pray for the Souls of the said Sir William and Nicolaa his Wife, for evermore, 8 Edw. 3. 1334. She was Daugh∣ter of William de Doncaster: Lib. C. fol. 285. d. e.

Charterers now in Gropenhale, 1666.

• 1. John Middlehurst.
• 2. William Morris of Gropenhale.
• 3. Richard Davys.
• 4. Thomas Blackborne of Lachford now hath got half of Davys's Land.

Hale.

THis Township of Hale was held by Hamon Massy in the Conqueror's Time, as ap∣pears by Doomsday-book: So that it is anciently of the Fee of the Barons of Dunham-Massy.

In this Town were Seated the Massies of Hale anciently, who were propagated Originally out of the Massies of Dunham-Massy; which Family continued for many Ages, but is now extinct.

3 Hen. 4. there were fourteen Free-holders or Charterers in Hale: At this day, 1666. there are twenty three Free-holders. The Lord Delamere is now Chief Lord of the one Moiety of Hale; and John Crew of Crew, Esquire, is Chief Lord of the other Moiety.

Here is a Hamlet in Hale, called Ringey, wherein is situated a Chappel of Ease, called Ringey-Chappel, within the Parish of Bowdon; of which I have little to say, save that it was much frequented in the late War by Schismatical Ministers, and, as it were, a Receptacle for Non-Conformists; in which dissolute Times, every Pragma∣tical Illiterate Person, as the Humor served him, stepp'd into the Pulpit, without any Lawful Calling thereunto, or Licence of Authority.

Halton.

THis Town in common Pronunciation is called Hauton, and is as much as A Town upon a Hill; for Hawe and Howe is an old English word for A Hill: Howbeit, in our Norman way of Writing, it is usually written Halton; in Doomsday-book it is written Heletune.

Here is yearly a Fair kept on the Feast of the Nativity of St. Mary, which is the eighth day of September, and hath been very anciently; for I find it mentioned in an Old Deed made towards the latter end of the Reign of Henry the Third: Lib. C. fol. 164. b.

It is now a poor Town or Village; and the Inhabitants, that have any Lands of Inheritance there, are all Copy-holders to the King, as Baron of Halton; save two small Cottages now, 1666. in possession of John Jackson and Richard Jennings, which are of the Fee of St. John of Hierusalem.

The Castle was built by the Barons of Halton presently after the Norman Conquest, and by degrees Repaired and Enlarged; who being Seated here, flourished for a long time, and were Constables of Cheshire in Fee, that is, to them and their Heirs by Descent; as it were, after the manner of Lord High Constables of England, so were the Barons of Halton to the Earls of Chester; and in their Ancient Charters did al∣ways stile themselves by the Title of [Constabularius Cestriae] Constables of Cheshire; and were the Highest in Place and Dignity next to the Earl himself, and above all the other Barons of Cheshire.

In the Reign of Henry the Third their Posterity became Earls of Lincoln: And upon the Death of Henry Lacy Earl of Lincoln, 1310. all his Lands and Honors came to the Earl of Lancaster with Alice his Daughter and Heir in Marriage: And at last Henry of Bolingbroke, Son of John of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster, was so Great a Sub∣ject, and so Popular, that he drew unto his Part most of the Nobility of England, and thereby most Traiterously and Rebelliously Deposed Richard the Second, and made himself King of England by the Name of Henry the Fourth.

So was the Barony of Halton annexed to the Crown.

All which will better appear by the following History of these Eminent Barons of Halton, till this Barony came to the Crown.

In this Town of Halton was formerly a Chappel of Ease within the Parish of Run∣corne, situated near to the Castle, as I well remember the same, 1625. But it is now totally in decay, 1666.

Barons of Halton.

I. Nigell, the first Baron of Halton after the com∣ing

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

in of the Normans: The ancient Roll saith thus: —Cùm Hugone Comite venit quidam Nobilis, nomine Nigellus; & cùm isto Nigello venerunt quinque Fratres, videlicèt, Hudardus, Edardus, Wolmerus, Horswine, & Wolfaith: Dictus verò Comes Cestriae dedit praefato Ni∣gello Baroniam de Halton, ad quam pertinent novem Feoda Militum, & dimidium, & quarta pars unius Feodi, & quinta pars unius Feodi, nomine Constabula∣rii Cestriae; & fecit eum Mareschallum suum, ità quod quandò dictus Hugo Comes exercitum suum mitteret in Walliam, dictus Nigellus & Haeredes sui in eundo prae∣cederent, & in redeundo cùm exercitu ultimi remanerent. Lib. C. fol. 84. & ob hanc causam dedit praefatus Hugo Comes dicto Nigello duo Feoda Militum in Englefeld* 37.62 citrà Rothland; & illam terram tenuerunt praefatus Nigellus & Haeredes sui asquè ad tem∣pus Rogeri Hell. Monasticon Anglicanum, 2 Pars, pag. 187.

This Nigell, if we may believe Pecham in his Compleat Gentleman, pag. 189. was the Son of Ivo (Vice-Comes or Governor of Constantia in Normandy) by Emme Sister to Adam Earl of Bretagne: Sed quaere.

Nigellus Vice-Comes Constantiensis in Normanniâ Coenobium Sancti Salvatoris construxit: Monasticon, 2 Pars, pag. 950. b. He killed the Forces sent into Normandy by King Ethelred, as they came on Shore out of their Ships, about the Year 1004. Willielmus Gemeticensis, lib. 4. cap. 4. Quaere if of this Family.

The Office of Constable of Cheshire was an Office of especial Trust, as in whom was reposed the Charge and Disposing of all the Soldiers, Horse, Armor, and other Provision for War, through the whole County: We now call the like Office Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire: And I do conceive that William, Son of this Nigell, was the first that was made Constable of Cheshire.

Certain it is, This Nigell Baron of Halton had two Sons, William and Richard, as appears by the Charter of the Foundation of the Abby of St. Werburge in Chester, by Hugh Lupus* 37.63, 1093. and also the Charter of Confirmation to the said Abby, by Earl Richard† 37.64, Anno 1119. Unto both which Charters these two Brothers are Wit∣nesses.

II. William Son of Nigell was the second Baron of Halton, and Constable of Cheshire.

Anno 1086. I find in Doomsday-book that this William held these Towns in Cheshire under Hugh Earl of Chester, to wit,

• In Cestre Hundred.
  • ...Newton,
  • Lee, one half.
  • Bruge, one half.
• In Dudestan Hundred.
  • ...Clutton.
• In Riseton Hundred.
  • ...Barrow.
• In Wilaweston Hundred.
  • Neston, one half.
  • Rabie, one half.
  • ...Capeles, id est, Capenhurst.
  • ...Berneston.
• ...

• [illustration] blazon or coat of arms
  In Mildest-vich Hundred.
  • Goostrey, one half.
  • ...Lache.
• In Hamstan Hundred.
  • Over-Alderley, one Half.
• In Bucklow Hundred.
  • Warburton, one half.
  • ...Millington.
  • ...Knotsford.
  • ...Over-Tabley.
  • Nether-Pever, one half.
  • Tatton, one half.
• In Tunendon Hundred.
  • ...Halton.
  • ...Weston.
  • ...Aston.
  • ...Norton.
  • ...Endley.
  • Dutton, a part only.
  • ...Little Legh.
  • ...Aston juxtà Budworth.
  • ...Great Budworth.
  • ...Whitley.

This William Fitz-Nigell Founded a Priory at Runcorne, Anno Domini 1133. 33 Hen. 1. Monasticon Anglicanum, 2 Pars, pag. 187.

He gave Newton near Chester to the Monastery of St. Werburge in Chester, together with the Service of Hugh Son of Hudard (that was Hugh de Dutton) of four Oxgangs of Land, and the Service of Wiceline of two Ox∣gangs, Anno 1119. Vide supra, pag. 117.

William Fitz-Nigell, Constable of Cheshire, died about the end of Henry the First's Reign, and was Buried at Chester. He had Issue William Constable junior; Agnes mar∣ried Eustace Fitz-John, a Great Baron of the Realm; and Maud married Aubert de Grelley. Monasticon Anglicanum, 2 Pars, pag. 798, 799. Lib. B. pag. 202. num. 18.

III. William Constable of Cheshire, junior, Son of William, was the third Baron of Halton.

He removed the Canons of Runcorn to Norton, as may appear by this Deed, which I found Copied out with many others belonging to Norton Priory, in a long Parch∣ment Roll, of a very ancient Character, remaining among the Evidences of Dutton, 1665.

IN Nomine Patris, & Filii, & Spiritus Sancti, Amen. Ego Willielmus Constabularius Cestriae, Filius Willielmi Constabularii, Filii Nigelli, Do & Concedo Ecclesiae Sanctae Mariae de Norton, & Canonicis ibidèm Deo Regularitèr Servientibus, eandem Nortonam in Elemosynam cùm omnibus ad eam pertinentibus, in nemore, cùm Forestâ & Warrennâ, in Plano, in Agris, in Pascuis, in Aquis. Et rogatu & Consilio Rogeri Cestrensis Episcopi, & Consilio hominum meorum, muto habitationem Canonicorum de Runcornâ in Nortonam: Quam Nortonam do & concedo Canonicis in Elemosynam & Escambium trium Carucarum terrae in Stannings, & unius Carucatae & dimidii in Astona; & in Escambium totius Run∣cornae, praetèr Ecclesiam & quatuor Bovatas terrae & unam Piscariam quae vocatur Pulceorpa, quae ad Ecclesiam ipsius Runcorne pertinet, quae Ecclesia praedictorum. Canonicorum est: Do etiàm eis & concedo Molendinum de Haltonâ, & mediatatem omnium Piscariarum quae ad Haltonam pertinent: Communitatem etiàm nemorum, Pascuorum, & Aquarum, ad Halto∣nam pertinentium, eis & hominibus suis concedo; & duas Bovatas terrae in Haltonâ cùm unâ Mansurâ; & medietatem totius Piscariae meae de Thelwall, & unam Bovatam terrae ibidèm cùm Piscatore: Et duas Bovatas in Wydneis, cùm Communitate nemorum & Pascuo∣rum, quae ad Pultonam pertinent, sibi & hominibus suis in Wydneis manentibus: Concedo & Communitatem nemorum & Pascuorum de Cuerdleiâ, & Molendinum de Barrow, & duas partes Dominicarum Decimarum in eâdem Villâ; & duas partes Dominicarum Decimarum in Suttonâ; & similitèr in Stanney, & in Rabie, & in Stanings; & unam Mansionem in Cestriâ; & Ecclesiam de Buddewurth, & Ecclesiam de Dunintonâ, & Decimam Molendini

ejusdem Villae, & unam Carucatam terrae in Dominio in eâdem Villâ, & in ipsâ Parochiâ Waver Toft, quod deputatur pro dimidiâ Carucatâ terrae, in Leycestershiriâ; & Eclesiam de Radeclivâ, & quartam partem Molendinorum, & decimas reliquarum trium partium in eâ∣dem Villâ & Ecclesiam de Cneshall, & Decimam Molendinorum quae ad eandem Villam pertinent, quae sunt juxtà Sitellam; & Decimam Molendini de Alretonâ: & Ecclesiam de Burtonâ in Lindeseiâ; & Ecclesiam de Piritonâ in Oxenfordshirâ Omnia autèm, quae ab hominibus meis data sunt, vel in posterùm danda sunt, pro salute Animarum eorum concedo. Haec autèm feci Suggerente & Confirmante Rogero Cestrensi Episcopo, & Consensu Ranulfi Comitis Junioris, pro salute Hugonis Comitis, & Ricardi Comitis, & Ranulfi Comitis, & pro salute Animae meae & Uxoris meae, & pro salute Animae Patris mei & Matris meae, & Fratrum, & Sororum, & omnium Antecessorum meorum & Successorum. Hanc autèm Ele∣mosynam ità ab omnibus Servitiis & Consuetudinibus, placitis & querelis, liberam & solutam concedo, sicùt ulla Elemosyna liberior & solutior concedi debet vel potest: Quicunque verò hanc Elemosynam adauxerit vel manutenuerit, per Participationem illius Ecclesiae Beneficio∣rum consequatur Regna Coelorum: Qui vero hanc in aliquo violaverit, vel infringere tenta∣verit, cùm Judâ & Pilato, cùm Dathan & Abyron, in inferno puniatur, nsi ad emendatio∣nem venerit. Testibus Willielmo Capellano, Rogero de Angervillâ, Alfredo Humfridi Fi∣lio, Nigello Ansgoti Filio, Roberto Petri Filio.—Lib. B. pag. 199. num. 1.

This was made in the Reign of King Stephen.

He gave also half of Raby in Wirrall to the Abby of St. Werburge in Chester, as Sustenance anciently given thereunto by his Father: Certum námque est (so run the Words of the Deed) quod Pater meus Willielmus Constabularius dedit dimidium de Raby, quod erat in Feodo suo, Domino Abbati Ricardo, & Ecclesiae, pro tertiâ parte de Neston, quae erat antiquitùs Prebenda Sanctae Werburgae.

This William is stiled Nepos Walteri de Gant: Monast. 1 Pars, pag. 143. and his Sister Agnes stiled Agnes de Gant: Lib. C. in the Paper before fol. 84. By which it may seem, that William Son of Nigell married a Sister of Walter de Gant, and Daughter of Gilbert.

This William Constable junior died in Normandy, in the Reign of King Stephen, with∣out Issue; and so his Inheritance was divided and shared between his two Sisters and Heirs. Lib. C. fol. 85. b.

His Seal had the Impression of a Griffin, with a Serpent or Snake sucking at the Breast of the Griffin.

IV. Eustace Fitz-John, in Right of Agnes his Wife, was the fourth Baron of Hal∣ton; to whom Randle the Second, sir-named Gernouns, Earl of Chester, restored totum Honorem qui fuit Willielmi Filii Nigelli Constabularii Cestriae, in Rebus & Dignitatibus omnibus; & ipsum Eustachium constituisse haereditariè Constabularium, & Supremum Con∣siliarium post me supèr omnes Optimates & Barones totius terrae meae: Ea-proptèr volo & firmitèr praecipio, desicùt ei rectum suum reddidi, & donavi & concessi Constabulariam, & honorem integrum Constabulariae Cestriae & totius terrae meae, quòd in omnibus ei rationabili∣tèr intendatis sicut Corpori meo; as the very words of the Charter, made in the Reign of King Stephen, do run: The Original hereof, Selden in his Titles of Honor, pag. 688. tells us he hath seen, remaining (as I conceive) in Cotton's Library at Westminster in London. It is also upon Record in one of the Couchir Books in the Dutchy Office at Grays-Inn, London, Tom. 1. fol. 41. a. Comitatus Cestriae, num. 2. which I have transcribed at large in this Book suprà, Pars 3. pag. 160.

This Eustace was Son of John Monoculus, so called because he had but one Eye; which makes Hoveden to call Eustace, Luscus & Proditor nequam, A wicked Traitor with one Eye; because his Father had but one Eye, p. 483. where he tells us, That this Eustace defended the Castle of Malton in Yorkshire against King Stephen, Anno 1137. 2 Steph.

Johannes Monoculus was Brother to Serlo de Burgo sivè de Pembroke. This Serlo built Knaresburough Castle in Yorkshire; who dying without Issue, his Inheritance descended to this Eustace Fitz-John: Monasticon Anglicanum, 2 Pars, pag. 801. Johan∣nes Monoculus and Serlo were both Sons of Eustace a Norman.

Eustace Fitz-John, and Nephew and Heir to Serlo, had two Wifes: Beatrix sole

Daughter and Heir of Ivo de Vescy was the first Wife of Eustace, by whom he had the Baronies of Malton and Alnwick, and by her had Issue William de Vescy, who assumed the Sir-name and Arms of Vescy, which his Posterity retained: Monasticon, 2 Pars, pag. 801.

Agnes, Sister and Co-heir to William Constable of Cheshire the younger, was second Wife of Eustace Fitz-John; by whom he had Issue Richard Constable of Cheshire: Mo∣nasticon, 2 Pars, pag. 799. Which Agnes, with Eustace her Husband, Founded a Nun∣nery at Watton in Yorkshire. Ibid. pag. 798, 799.

Eustace Fitz-John (saith Pecham in his Compleat Gentleman, pag. 189.) by the consent of Agnes his first Wife Founded the Monastery of Watton in Yorkshire; and by the Consent of Beatrix his second Wife Founded the Abbies of Malton and Alnwick, and the Hospital of Broughton: Where he calls Agnes first Wife of Eustace, contrary to Cambden in his Britanniâ, pag. 588. in Yorkshire; and to Monasticon, 2 Pars, pag. 801. where Agnes is said to be the second Wife, and so probably she was.

[Obiit 1157] This Eustace Fitz-John was slain in Battel against the Welsh, together with Robert Curcy, and many others, 3 Hen. 2. 1157. Stow in his Annals. And VVillielmus Neubri∣gensis, lib. 2. cap. 5. pag. 100. speaking of this Battel with the VVelsh, saith,—Ibique Eustachius Johannis Filius, Vir Magnus & Grandaevus, atquè inter Primos Angliae Proceres divitiarum & Sapientiae titulis refulgens, cùm Roberto de Curcy aequè Nobili Viro aliisque pluribus interiit.

V. Richard Constable of Cheshire, Son of Eustace and Agnes, succeeded his Father in the Barony of Halton.

In the beginning of the Reign of Henry the Second he held one Knights Fee in Smathe in the County of York: Ex Libro Rubro Scaccarii VVestmonasteriensis.

He married Albreda, or Awbrey, Daughter and Heir of Robert de Lizours, and Sister by the Mother, id est, Half Sister, to Robert Lacy Baron of Pomfret Castle in Yorkshire, commonly call'd Pontefract, who made her his Heir also, because he had no other so near allied unto him: In whose Right her Posterity enjoy'd sexaginta Feoda Militum, sixty Knights Fees, of the Honor of Pomfret: undè illa, post Roberti de Lacy mortem, utrámque Hereditatem, Fraternam de Lacy, & Paternam de Lizours occupavit. These are the Words of the Book of Stanlaw Monastery, saith Cambden in his Britannia, pag. 566. of the last Edition, Printed 1607.

And here I cannot pass by the mistake of Pecham in the Place before cited, where he calls this Aubrey Daughter of Eudo de Lizours, when I find her Fathers Name plainly recorded to be Robert de Lizours, in a Fine levied at VVinchester 21 die Aprilis, 5 Rich. 1. 1194. Couchir Book in the Dutchy Office at Grays Inn, Tom. 2. pag. 110. Honor sivè Soca de Bolingbroke, num. 1. Of which Fine I shall have occasion to speak more fully, when I come to Roger Lacy the seventh Baron of Halton. See also Monasticon Anglicanum, 2 Pars, pag. 188. lineâ 18. a.

Richard Fitz-Eustace had Issue by Aubrey his Wife John, who succeeded Constable of Cheshire; Robert the Hospitaller, id est, of the Hospital of St. John of Hierusalem in England, the Grand Priory being at Jerusalem; Mary* 38.1 married Robert de Aldford; and Awbrey married to Henry Bysset: Lib. C. fol. 85. b. & le Paper antè, fol. 66. c.

Pecham tells us of another Son, called Roger, Lord of VVarkworth in Northumber∣land, from whom are descended the ancient Barons of Clavering, the Baron Evers, and Sir John Clavering of Caloley in Northumberland: But quaere of this Roger, whether he were the Son of this Richard Fitz-Eustace; I find another Family called Constables, des∣cended from the Constables of Glocester; and that Milo Constable had Issue Roger, Henry, VValter, Matthew, and VVilliam. Monasticon, 2 Pars, pag. 66. Sed quaere.

Richard Fitz-Eustace was dead before 24 Hen. 2. 1178. but I find not the precise Year when he died.

Aubrey his Widow afterwards married VVilliam Fitz-VVilliams, and had Issue VVil∣liam: Monasticon, 1 Pars, pag. 831. & Lib. C. fol. 64. g.

VI. John Constable of Cheshire, Son and Heir of Richard and Awbrey, succeeded his Father, and was the sixth Baron of Halton.

He Founded the Abby of Stanlaw in VVirral in Cheshire, Anno Domini 1178. 24 Hen. 2. in these words.—

UNiversis Sanctae Matris Ecclesiae Filiis,—Johannes Constabularius Cestriae Salutem. Sciatis me dedisse & hâc praesenti Chartâ meâ confirmâsse Deo, & Sanctae Mariae, & Abbati atque Monachis de Stanlawe, ad construendam Abbathiam Ordinis Cisterciensis, ipsum locum Stanlawe; quem, mutato nomine, benedictum locum vocari volumus: & Villam unam, quae vocatur Stanney; & alteram Villam, quae vocatur Maurice-Aston; cùm omnibus pertinentiis—liberas & quietas ab omni terreno Servitio, & Seculari exactione, pro sa∣lute Animae meae, & Patris mei, & Matris meae, & Uxoris meae, & omnium Antecessorum & Haeredum meorum, in puram & perpetuam Elemosynam. Concessi quoquè eis in perpetuam Elemosynam quietantiam Tolnei, in emptione & venditione omnium rerum suarum per totam terram meam; necnòn & quietantiam Tolnei de proprio Blado suo in Molendinis meis: Dedi etiàm eis Messuagium unum in Villâ Cestriae, cùm omnibus Aedificiis suis, quod habui juxtà Ecclesiam Sancti Michaelis—&c. Et quandò ego & Haeredes mei voluerimus, in Domo prae∣nominatâ Placita nostra tenebimus, & ad expensas nostras hospitabimus— Anno ab Incarna∣tione Domini 1178. Hujus autèm Donationis testes sunt isti, Robertus Decanus de Do∣nington, Nicolaus Parsona de Marnaham, Radulfus Sacerdos de Sallowe, Simon Sacerdos de Eston; Gregorius Sacerdos de Castello, Galfridus Monachus de Parco, Simon Monachus de Combermere, Henricus Bysset, Johannes de Danvillâ, Martinus Angevinus, Hugo de Dut∣ton, Johannes Filius Thurstani,—&c. Lib. C. fol. 62. a. Also Witnesses Ricardus Fit∣ton, Willielmus Filius Ricardi, Robertus Venator, Adam de Dutton, Hugo ejus Frater,—&c. Apud Dodyngton.

This Abby was after Translated to Whalley in Lancashire, 1296.

This John Constable of Cheshire gave all Hield in Aston nigh Great Budworth to Methroso Punterling; rendring a Welsh Lance yearly on St. Bartholomew's day, M. num. 1. which at this day belongs to Leycester of Tabley.

He married Alice Sister of William Mandevyle, by whom he had Issue Roger Consta∣ble of Cheshire, who assumed the Sir-name of Lacy; Eustace sir-named De Cester, Ri∣chard de Cester, to whom his Brother Roger gave the Town of Moore in Cheshire; and after Richard became a Leper, and was buried at Norton: Geffrey, another Son; Peter, another Son; Alice, a Daughter: Lib. C. fol. 85. b. & fol. 62. b. c. d.

Anno Domini 1181. John Constable of Cheshire, and Richard Peche [Bishop of Co∣ventry and Lichfield] were appointed Governors of Ireland, and sent to keep Dublin, which Hugh de Lacy kept: For Hugh de Lacy was sent for into England by King Henry the Second, with whom the King was much displeased, because he had married the Daughter of the King of Connaught without the Licence of Henry the Second: Hove∣den, pag. 611. Also Giraldus and Hollinshed.

This John Constable of Cheshire had a Clerk called William, an excellent Astro∣loger, who in the Year 1186. writ of the Conjunction of the Planets that Year; whose Words and Opinion thereon, you may read in Hoveden, pag. 624.

John Constable of Cheshire died at Tyre in the Land of Jerusalem, [Obiit 1190] Anno Dom. 1190. 2 Rich. 1. Hoveden, pag. 685.

VII. Roger Lacy Constable of Cheshire, Son and Heir of John, succeeded his Fa∣ther, and was the Seventh Baron of Halton: He was sir-named Hell, for his fierce and magnanimous Spirit.

He is the first of the Barons of Halton who assumed the Sir-name of Lacy; which Name he retained after the Possessions of Robert Lacy of Pomfret Castle in Yorkshire accrewed to him; which Robert Lacy died Anno Domini 1194. and in the Year follow∣ing a Fine was Levied at Winchester between this Roger Constable, and Awbrey his

Grandmother, wherein she settles on him the great Inheritance which belonged to Robert Lacy, in these words.—

* 38.2Haec est finalis Concordia facta in Curiâ Domini Regis apud Wintonam, 21 die Aprilis, Anno Regni Domini Regis Ricardi Quinto, coràm Domino Rege, & Huberto Cantu∣ariensi Archiepiscopo, Willielmo Eliensi Episcopo, Domini Regis Cancellario, Hugone Dunel∣mensi, G. Roffensi Episcopis, Willielmo de Sanctae Mariae Ecclesiâ, Ranulpho Comite Ce∣striae, Comite R. le Bigot, Willielmo Mareschallo, Gaufrido Filio Petri, Hugone Bard, & aliis fidelibus Domini Regis qui tùnc ibi aderant: Inter Albreiam de Lisores, & Rogerum Constabularium Cestriae, Nepotem* 38.3 suum, de totâ Terrâ quae fuit Roberti de Lasci: Undè placitum fuit intèr eos in Curiâ Domini Regis, scilicèt quòd praedicta Albreia, & Haeredes sui, quietum clamaverunt praedicto Rogero & Haeredibus suis totam praenominatam terram quae fuit Roberti de Lascy: Et praedictus Rogerus concessit praedictae Albred, quòd teneat totam Terram quae fuit Roberti de Lisores Patris ipsius Albred sinè aliquo retenemento totâ vitâ suâ, benè & in pace, per servitium quod ad illam Terram pertinet; scilicèt, Serviti∣um Feodorum octo Militum: Et post decessum suum, Willielmus Filius praefatae Albred (He was Son of Awbrey by William Fitz-Williams) & Haeredes sui Terram illam tenebunt li∣berè & quietè per praedictum Servitium de praedicto Rogero, & Haeredibus suis, in Feodo & Haereditate: Praetereà praefatus Rogerus dedit praedictae Albred viginti Libratas Terrae in Bardinton, quas ipsa Albred totâ vitâ suâ tenebit quietas ab omni Servitio; & post de∣cessum suum, Willielmus Filius suus & Haeredes sui eandem terram tenebunt de praedicto Ro∣gero & Haeredibus suis in Feodo & Haereditate, per Servitium Feodi unius Militis: Et pro Concessione harum viginti Libratarum Terrae, praedicta Albred continuò deliberavit & quie∣tam clamavit praedicto Rogero Villam de Hauton in Lindeseiâ, cùm omnibus pertinentis suis, quam in Dotem tenuerat. Couchir-Book in the Dutchy-Office at Grays-Inn, Tom. 2. Honor sivè Soca de Bolingbroke, num. 1 pag. 110. Lib. C. fol. 64. g.

This Roger is ranked by Hoveden, pag. 783. as the most eminent Baron of the Realm, and next after the Earls, among those Great Persons whom King John most doubted, and required to swear Fealty to him by his Commissioners, Anno Domini 1199. upon the death of Richard the First; which they did upon Condition that every of them should have their Lands restored.

And the King restored unto Roger Lacy his Castle of Pomfret, having first received his Son and Heir for a Pledge: Hoveden, pag. 794. put out with other Authors by Sir Henry Savil, 1601.

He was one of those whom King John employed for the Safe Conduct of the King of Scotland unto the Court of England, when the King of Scotland did Homage to the King of England at Lincoln, presently after the Coronation of King John, sub Anno Domini 1200. Hoveden, pag. 811. And Roger Lacy is there again put down the first of all the Barons of England, who were Witnesses of the King of Scotland▪s Homage; and where the Chief of the Nobility are named by Hoveden.

Anno Domini 1201. King John sent before-hand William Marshall Earl of Strigvill, cùm centum militibus Soldariis; and Roger Lacy Constable of Cheshire, cùm aliis centum militibus Soldariis, into Normandy, for the suppressing of his Enemies. Hoveden, p. 819.

Milites Soldarii, id est, Stipendarii, Stipendio retenti: So Spelman.

Anno 1204. Roger Constable of Cheshire, Vir magnificus & bellicosus, a most He∣roique and Magnanimous Champion, kept the Castle de Rupe Andeliaci in Normandy, for King John, against the French, with such Gallantry, that after all his Victuals were spent, having been Besieged almost a Year, and many Assaults of the Enemy made, but still repulsed by him, he mounts his Horse, and issues out of the Castle with his Troop into the midst of his Enemies Forces, chusing rather to die like a Sol∣dier, than to be starved to death: He slew many of the Enemy, but was at last with much difficulty taken Prisoner: So he and his Soldiers were brought Prisoners to the King of France, where, by the Command of the King, Roger Lacy was to be no strict Prisoner* 38.4, for his great Honesty and Trust in keeping the Castle so gallantly. Mat. Paris, put out by Dr. Wats, pag. 211.

King John's Letter to Roger Lacy, concerning the keeping of the said Castle, you may see among the Norman Writers put out by Andrew du Chesne, and Printed at Paris 1619. pag. 1059.

One other notable Exploit of this Roger Lacy I find mentioned in the Ancient Roll of the Barons of Halton: When Randle Earl of Chester, sir-named Blundevill,* 38.5 was Besieged in Rothelent Castle in Flintshire by the Welsh, this Roger gathers a tumultuous Rout of loose and dissolute Persons, Players, Minstrels, Shoe-makers, and the like, and marched speedily towards the Enemy. The Welsh seeing a great Multitude com∣ing, raised their Siege and fled. The Earl thus delivered, confers the Authority over all the loose idle Persons in Cheshire upon his Constable: And John Constable of Che∣shire, Son of the said Roger, confers the Authority and Rule over all the Letchers and Whores in Cheshire on Hugh Dutton of Dutton, as freely as he held the same of the Earl; saving the Right of the said John to him and his Heirs. See the Deed it self Transcribed suprà, Pars 2. pag. 142.

Roger Lacy purchased from Robert Bushell the Barony of Penwortham in Lancashire, to hold of John King of England, and his Heirs, in Capite; for which he acquitted the said Robert Bushell of 310 Marks of Silver to King John. Couchir-Book in the Dutchy-Office at Grays-Inn, Tom. 1. fol. 79. b. Com. Lancastriae, num. 78.

This Roger gave the Church of Rochdale in Lancashire, which belonged to the Honor of Pomfret, unto the Abby of Stanlaw: Lib. C. fol. 61. h. and also the Town of Little Wolneton: Lib. C. fol. 62. c. & in Principio, fol. 12. d.

He gave also his Moiety of Nether Pever cùm Little Pever, which belonged to the Fee of Halton, unto Osbert de VVethale, rendring to him and his Heirs the yearly Rent of 6 s. 8 d. and by doing Foreign Service as much as belongeth to the twentieth part of a Knights Fee: The Original in my possession; and which Rent of 6 s. 8 d. is at this day, 1666. paid to Halton by Leycester of Tabley for the same moiety.

Roger Lacy married Maud de Clare, Lib. C. fol. 70. a. The Original Penès Towneley of Carre in Lancashire, June 24. 1657. and had Issue John Lacy Constable of Cheshire, af∣terwards Earl of Lincoln.

Pecham in his Compleat Gentleman, pag. 190. tells us of another Son of Roger, called Robert Constable of Flamborough in Yorkshire, whose Posterity assumed the Sir-name of Constable: From which Robert in a direct Line are descended Sir VVilliam Constable of Flamborough, Sir Philip Constable of Everingham, Christopher Constable of Hatfield Esquire, James Constable of Cliffe Esquire, John Constable of Carthrop Esquire, Marma∣duke Constable of Kirby Esquire, —Constable of VVassam Esquire, Sir John Consta∣ble of Dromandby, with many others then living, 1622.

I find mention indeed of Robert Constable of Flamborough, called also Robert Son of the Constable to the Earl of Chester; Monasticon Anglicanum, 2 Pars, pag. 799. But whether Son of Roger, is not manifest to me; but must leave it to Pecham's Authority.

Nor can I here pass by the mistake of the ancient Roll of the Barons of Halton:* 38.6 Lib. C. fol. 84, 85, Monasticon, 2 Pars, pag. 187. and several other old Manuscripts there be of the same: In all which this Maud de Clare, Wife of Roger Lacy, is said to be Sister of the Treasurer of York Minster: Now Bevoys de Clare Treasurer of York Minster had no Sister called Maud; for all the Sisters are punctually reckoned up in the Book of Tewksbery, as you may find them copied out by Vincent in his Corrections of Brook's Catalogue of Nobility, pag. 221. whereby it appears plainly, that those Sisters also were all born after the death of Roger Lacy. Possibly in the old Roll there may be an omission of a Word; as where it is said,—Sororem Thesaurarii Eboracensis Ec∣clesiae, for Sororem Patris Thesaurarii Eboracensis Ecclesiae; or some other Word. Quaere.

Anno Domini 1211. 13 Johannis Regis, [Obiit 1211] vir Nobilis & Miles egregius Rogerus Cestriae Constabularius vitam finivit: Mat. Paris, put out by Wats, pag. 230.

Anno 1211. obiit Rogerus de Lacy, in Festo Sancti Remigii (which is the first day of October) cui successit Johannes Filius ejus, posteà Comes Lincolniae per Uxorem suam: Ma∣nuscript in Oxford Library, among the Books given by William Laud Archbishop of Canterbury, noted G. 9. fol. 125. b.

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

VIII. John Lacy Constable of Cheshire, Son of Roger, succeeded his Father, and was the eighth Ba∣ron of Halton.

He was one of those Great Persons of England whom Pope Innocent the Third Excommunicated for Conspiring against King John, Anno Dom. 1216. Mat. Paris, pag. 277. See also pag. 262.

Anno Domini 1218. there came to the Siege of Damiata, a City in Egypt, many Strangers out of di∣vers Parts of the World.— Out of England came the Illustrious Randle Earl of Chester, with Saher Earl of Winchester, and William Earl of Arundel, and the Barons Robert Fitz-Walter, John Constable of Cheshire, William de Harecourt, with much Com∣pany. Idem Paris, pag. 303.

This John had two Wifes. The first was Alice Daughter to Gilbert de Aquila: She was Buried at Norton Abby.

Afterwards he married Margaret Daughter and Heir, or Co-heir at least, to Robert de Quency, eldest Son of Saher de Quency Earl of Winchester.

This Saher de Quency Earl of Winchester was Lord of Groby in Leycestershire, and died Anno Domini 1220. as Mat. Paris saith. He married Margaret younger Sister and Co-heir to the fourth Robert Earl of Leycester, called Robert Fitz-Parnell, and had Issue Robert Quency, eldest Son, who married Hawys fourth Sister and Co-heir to Randle sir-named Blundevill, Earl of Chester and Lincoln, by whom he had Issue Margaret, marri∣ed to John Lacy aforesaid; Roger de Quency, second Son of Saher, who succeeded his Father in the Earldom of Winchester;* 38.7 and another Robert de Quency, third Son, who married Hellen the Widow of John the Scot Earl of Chester; which Robert died Anno Domini 1257. 41 Hen. 3. in a Torneament at Blie: So Mat. Paris. Also Hawys, Daugh∣ter of Saher de Quency, married Hugh de Vere Earl of Oxford; and Orabella, another Daughter of Saher, married Richard Son of William Harecourt, with whom her Father gave Bosworth in Leycestershire in Marriage: Burton's Antiquities of Leycestershire, p. 47. This was Harecourt of Stanton-Harecourt in Oxfordshire.

Hawys the Widow of Robert de Quency eldest Son of Saher (which Robert died in the Life-time of Saher his Father) had the Earldom of Lincoln given unto her by her Bro∣ther Randle Earl of Chester, scilicèt, quantum ad me pertinuit, ut indè Comitissa existat, as the Words of the Deed do run. This was not long before Randle's death, who died at Wallingford 26 die Octobris, Anno Domini 1232. 17 Hen. 3. Vincent upon Brook, pag. 317.

And King Henry the Third, by Patent dated at Northampton, 23 die Novembris, Anno Regni sui 17. 1232. granted the Earldom of Lincoln to John Lacy, in these words.—

HENRICUS Dei Gratiâ Rex Angliae, Dominus Hiberniae, Dux Normanniae & Aquitaniae, Comes Andegaviae: Omnibus ad quos praesentes Literae pervenerint, Salutem. Sciatis, Quòd ad instantiam Hawisiae de Quency dedimus & concessimus dilecto & fideli nostro Johanni de Lascy Constabulario Cestriae, illas viginti Libras, quas Ranulphus quondàm Comes Cestriae & Lincolniae recepit pro tertio Denario Comitatus Lincolniae, nomi∣ne Comitis Lincolniae; & quas praedictus Comes in vitâ suâ dedit praedictae Hawisiae Sorori suae: Habendas & Tenendas, nomine Comitis Lincolniae, de nobis & Haeredibus nostris, ipsi Johanni, & Haeredibus suis qui exibunt de Margaretâ Uxore suâ Filiâ praedictae Hawisiae in perpetuum. Et in hujus rei Testimonium has Literas nostras Patentes ei fieri fecimus. Teste meipso apud Northampton, 23 die Novembris, Anno Regni nostri decimo septimo. Couchir-Cook in the Dutchy-Office at Grays-Inn, scilicet Tom. 2. Honor sivè Soca de Bolingbroke, num. 10. pag. 500. Lib. C. fol. 66. w.

Thus was John Lacy in Right of his Wife made Earl of Lincoln.

Some Competition there was by this John concerning the Inheritance of Saher de Quency Earl of Winchester, and also of the Inheritance belonging to Margaret his Countess: For Saher had by Deed formerly Covenanted with Robert his Son and Heir, quòd infantes sui, qui procreabuntur ab ipso & Hawisiâ de Cestriâ Uxore suâ, Hae∣redes sint totius Haereditatis dicti Saheri & Haereditatis Uxoris suae Comitissae Margaretae; & hoc legaliter tenendum affidavit. The Original in possession of Sir Simon Dewes Baronet, 1647. Lib. C. Paper antè fol. 66.

But how Roger de Quency and John Lacy were agreed, appears by this Fine follow∣ing, 14 Hen. 3. 1230.—

Haec est finalis Concordia facta in Curiâ Domini Regis apud Westmonasterium in Octa∣bis Sancti Michaelis, Anno Regni Regis Henrici Filii Regis Johannis quarto decimo, coràm Thomâ de Mulet, Willielmo de Ralegh, Roberto de Lexington, Willielmo de Insulâ, Willielmo de London, Magistro Roberto de Sherdelawe, Justiciariis, & aliis Domini Regis Fidelibus tùnc ibidèm praesentibus: Inter Rogerum de Quency Querentem, & Johannem de Lascy Constabularium Cestriae, & Margaretam Uxorem ejus, Deforciantes, de Haereditate Saheri de Quency Comitis quondàm Wintoniae, in Kotelastan, Chennoure, Sudho, Aymbirye, Bukby, Gransete, Hardwyk, & Bradenham, cùm pertinentiis; & de Haereditate Margaretae de Quency Comitissae Wintoniae, scilicèt de medietate Honoris Leycestriae: Undè Placitum Conventionis summonitum fuit intèr eos in eâdem Curiâ, scilicèt quòd praedicti Johannes & Margareta recognoverunt omnes praedictas Terras, & praedictam medietatem Honoris Leyce∣striae, cùm pertinentiis, & totam Haereditatem ipsius Saheri in Angliâ, Scotiâ, Flandriâ, & Normannia, & totam Haereditatem ipsius Margaretae Comitissae Wintoniae in Anglia & Nor∣mannia, esse jus ipsius Rogeri: Et pro hac Recognitione, Fine, & Concordia, Idem Rogerus dedit & concessit praedictis Johanni & Margaretae Mannerium de Kingston, cùm omnibus per∣tinentiis in Comitatu Dorsetiae, & similitèr totam Terram cùm pertinentiis, quam Loretta quondàm Comitissa Leycestriae aliquandò tenuit nomine Dotis in Wymburne, Blaneford, cùm tota Foresta & Chaceis de Wimburn-Holt, & cùm omnibus Boscis & Warrennis de Kingston, —Excepto Tenemento quod Nicolaus de Wilelegh tenuit: praetereà idem Rogerus recognovit & concessit praedictis Johanni & Margaretae, Maneria de Bradeham, de Granset, de Bukby, & de Hardewyck, cùm omnibus pertinentiis suis, sicut Hawisia (quae fuit Uxor Roberti de Quency) ea tenuit in Dote; & Homagium & totum Servitium Matthaei Tinfin, & Haeredum suorum, de Feodo unius Militis cùm pertinentiis in Winterflawe in Comitatu Wiltshire: Ha∣bendum & Tenendum eisdem Johanni & Margaretae, & Haeredibus de Corpore ipsius Marga∣retae procreatis, de praedicto Rogero & Haeredibus suis, Faciendo indè Servitium quinque Militum pro omni Servitio & Exactione:—Et sciendum est, quòd si praedicta Margaretae sinè Haerede de Corpore suo procreato decesserit, omnes praedictae Terrae cùm pertinentiis re∣dibunt ipsi Rogero & Haeredibus suis sinè ullo retenemento: Salvis praedicto Johanni Consta∣bulario omnibus praedictis Terris cùm pertinentiis tenendis tota vita sua: Couchir-Book in the Dutchy-Office, Tom. 2. Comitatus Dorset. num. 10. Lib. C. fol. 66. x.

Henry the Third gave to this John Lacy the Manors of Colingham and Berdsey, undè Abbas de Kirkstall nobis reddidit per Annum 90 Libras de firma, donèc ei dederimus ratio∣nabile Escambium ad Valentiam eorundem Manneriorum in Escaetis vel Wardis—Datum apud Aurebel, 17 die Julii, 14 Hen. 3. Ibidèm Tom. 2. Honor sivè Soca de Bolingbroke, [ 1230] fol. 22. num. 46.

Anno Domini 1233. 18 Hen. 3. John Scot Earl of Chester, and John Lacy Earl of Lin∣coln, were by Peter Bishop of Winchester, for the Bribe of a thousand Marks, drawn to the Kings Party; who before were Confederat with Richard Earl-Marshal against the King. Mat. Paris.

About the same Year 1233. John sir-named The Scot, Earl of Chester and Hunting∣don, gave to John Lacy Earl of Lincoln, and Constable of Cheshire, ten Knights Fees in England, illa scilicèt quae de me tenuit, & Antecessores sui de Antecessoribus meis tenuerunt, (This was the Service for the Ancient Barony of Halton in Cheshire.) for the Service

of half a Knights Fee, to be done by him and his Heirs, for all Service to the said John Scot and his Heirs. Testibus Domino Henrico de Audidelegh, Domino Willielmo de Cantilupo, Domino Ricardo Phiton tùnc Justiciario Cestriae, &c. Couchir-Book in the Dut∣chy-Office, Tom. 1. fol. 49. a. Comitatus Cestriae, num. 24. Lib. C. fol. 65. s.

John Lacy had Issue by Margaret his second Wife, Edmund Lacy; and Maud, a Daugh∣ter, married to Richard de Clare, Earl of Clare, Glocester, and Hartford, Anno Domini 1238. 22 Hen. 3. Stow in his Annals.

* 38.8Anno 1240. 24 Hen. 3. die Sanctae Mariae Magdalenae, scilicèt undecimo Calendas Au∣gusti, died John Earl of Lincoln, after a long and tedious Sickness. Mat. Paris, p. 533.

Margaret Countess of Lincoln afterwards married Walter Marshall Earl of Pembroke, which Walter died without Issue 29 Hen. 3. 1245. Mat. Paris. Also Vincent upon Broke.

But Margaret survived both her Husbands, and then was stiled,—Domina Marga∣reta Comitissa Lincolniae & Pembrochiae, in all her Charters: Lib. C. fol. 66. y. Living 33 Hen. 3.

I find mention in the Book of Whalley, fol. 126. b. of one Peter de Lascy a Bastard, called also Peter de Cester, Rector of Whalley Church in Lancashire, 1249. but whether Bastard-son of this John Lacy, I cannot positively affirm.

IX. Edmund Lacy Constable of Cheshire, Son and Heir of John Lacy Earl of Lin∣coln, succeeded his Father, and was the ninth Baron of Halton.

His Mother Margaret enjoyed the Earldom of Lincoln while she lived, by whom it came; and she survived Edmund her Son, who was Ward to the King.

And howbeit Vincent upon Brook, pag. 318, 319. cites a Record out of the Close Rolls, to prove that this Edmund, by way of Recitation, had tertium Denarium Comita∣tus Lincolniae; yet certain it is, he was never stiled in any of his own Chartes by the Title of Comes Lincolniae, but onely Edmundus Lacy Constabularius Cestriae: Lib. C. fol. 67. c. & fol. 1. f. Sometimes Sir Edmund Lacy onely. Lib. C. fol. 67. b.

Yet Matthew Paris tells us, That in the beginning of May, 1247. two Girls of Pro∣vence in France were by the Providence of Peter of Savoy married unto two very Noble young Gentlemen, Edmund Earl of Lincoln, and Richard de Burgo, whom King Hen∣ry the Third had Educated for some few Years in his own Court; the King himself staying at Woodstock from the twenty eighth of April to the first of May, for the accom∣plishment thereof. Concerning which Marriages there was much murmuring through the Kingdom, because those strange Ladies were married (as it was said) contrary to the desires of the young Noblemen, and against their wills.

Where he stiles this Edmund, Earl of Lincoln, rather out of Civility, in regard it was Hereditarily in him if he had survived his Mother, than that in truth he was so stiled in any Deed or Record during his Life.

* 38.9The young Ladies Name to whom the King married him, was Alice Daughter of the Marquis of Saluces in Italy, and Cosin to the Queen of England, of whom he be∣got Henry Lacy, afterwards Earl of Lincoln.

Roger Quency Earl of Winchester, and Constable of Scotland, gave unto his Cosin Edmund Lacy the Mannors of Kypes and Scales in Yorkshire: Lib. C. fol. 67. a Tom. 1. of the Couchir-Books in the Dutchy-Office, fol. 168. b. Com. Eboraci. num. 12.

Anno Domini 1254. aliqui magnatum, utpote Johannes de Warrennâ, & Edmundus de Lascy, apud Doveram transfretantes, versùs Burdegaliam lora direxerunt. Mat. Paris.

[Obiit 1258] Edmund Lacy died the fifth day of June, 1258. 42 Hen. 3. and was Buried at Stan∣law Abby in Wirrall in Cheshire. So the Book of Whalley Abby. Lib. C. fol. 61. a. & fol. 67. e.

Alice, the Widow of this Edmund, was living 1271. 55 Hen. 3. Tom. 2. of the Cou∣chir-Books in the Dutchy-Office, Honor sive Soca de Bolingbroke, fol. 23. num. 49. being a French Deed, wherein by Agreement with Henry Lacy her Son, she was to hold for her Life all those Lands whereof she was Enfeoffed by the King:—And she releaseth all her Dower in Halton in Cheshire, and in Widneys, and in Almanbyrye.

X. Henry Lacy Earl of Lincoln, and Constable of Cheshire, Son and Heir of Edmund Lacy, succeeded his Father, and was the tenth Baron of Halton.

King Edward the First gave unto him the Castle and Lordship of Denbigh in Wales, Anno Domini 1284. 12 Edw. 1. Stow in his Annals. In this Year, on the ninth of April, was so great Thunder and Lightning, that Men could scarce stand on their Feet.

His Title, in Anno 1286. 14 Edw. 1. and also 1296. 24 Edw. 1. did run thus in his own Charters,—Henricus de Lacy Comes Lincolniae, Constabularius Cestriae, Dominus de Roos & Rowynock. Monasticon, 1 Pars. pag. 901. & Lib. C. fol. 67. g.

He was in greatest Favour with his Prince, on whose Fidelity Edward the First did principally rely, making him the Chief Commissioner for the Rectifying and Disco∣vering of the Abuses and Briberies of his Corrupt Judges, complained of in Parlia∣ment 18 Edw. 1. 1290. Among whom, Sir Thomas Weyland, Chief Justice of the Common Pleas, was Banished, and all his Goods Confiscate; Sir John Lovetot Compounded for 3000 Marks; Roger Leycester Clerk, for 1000 Marks; Sir William Brompton, for 6000 Marks. These were all Judges of the Common Pleas; and other Judges were also Fined.

About this time, 1290. Sir Nicolas Leycester Knight was Seneschal to this Henry Lacy Earl of Lincoln: G. num. 60. from whom the Leycesters of Tabley in Cheshire.

Henry Lacy is placed next after the Prince of Wales, as the Prime Noble-man of England, in the Catalogue of the Parliament at Carlisle, 1307. 35 Edw. 1. as they be ranked by Stow in his Chronicle.

He was very Famous in all Grand Matters of State in the Reign of King Edward the First, as Walsingham, Stow, and other of our Historians do report.

Anno 1293. he was sent Embassador to the French King, to demand Satisfaction for the Goods of the English Merchants which were taken by the French.

Also after the death of Edmund Earl of Lancaster, he was Commander in Chief of all the Kings Forces in Gascoyn, and sometime Vice-Roy of the Dutchy of Aquitain.

Anno 1298. he Marched into the Confines of Tholouse, and expelled the French, delivering the Castle of St. Catharine from a strict Siege.

Anno 1299. he led the Foreward of the Battel of Fowkirk in Scotland, where the Scots were defeated.

He was Protector of England when Edward the Second was in Scotland. In a word, He was Vir Illustris in Concilio, strenuus in omni Praelio, Princeps Militiae in Angliâ, & in omni Regno Ornatissimus, saith the Book of Dunmow, as I find it cited by Wever in his Funeral Monuments, pag. 366.

Anno 1273. 1 Edw. 1. Edmund Earl of Lancaster, Henry Lacy Earl of Lincoln, and Reginald Grey, for the Preservation of the Peace of this Nation, Besieged Robert de Ferrers in the Castle of Chartley in Staffordshire, which Castle Robert had entred and kept by Force, it being lately given by King Henry the Third unto Hamon le Strange; which Castle indeed was the Inheritance of the said Robert, and descended unto him by Agnes his Grandmother, third Sister and Co-heir to Randle Blundevill Earl of Che∣ster, till Robert forfeited the same by his Rebellion. In this Siege many Persons were slain on both Sides, and the said Robert and his Complices were at last taken. Now the King Pardoned these Besiegers for the slaying of these Disturbers of the Peace, and Confirms the Protection of such Persons as the said Edmund had received into Fa∣vour. Dated at Rothelent, 20 die Decembris, 11 Edw. 1. 1282. Lib. C. fol. 67. I. Tom. 2. of the Couchir-Books at Grays-Inn, in the Dutchy-Office there. Derby-Ferrers, num. 4.

This Henry, by the Name of Henry Lacy Earl of Lincoln, and Constable of Cheshire, Confirms to the Prior and Canons of Burstow a Place called Ruddegate, which Henry Torbock and Ellen his Wife had before Granted unto them; so as one Leprous Person of his Fee of Widneys [in Lancashire], if any such were found, should be admitted in the said House, and be reasonably maintained; and after the Decease of one, another to come in his room: And that the said Henry Lacy, and Margaret his Wife, be put

in their Martyrologie, and their Names written in the Canon. Dated at Halton, die San∣cti Geronimi Confessoris (which is the thirtieth day of September), Anno Domini 1285. The Original hereof was in possession of Sir Simon Dewes Baronet, 1646. with a very fair Seal, scilicèt, The Earl on Horseback, with his Sword drawn; and on the Breast of the Earl, an Escocheon of Arms, in which is A Lion Rampant; and on the Reverse or Back∣part of the Seal, also, A Lion Rampant in an Escocheon, which I take to be the Coat of these Lacies Earls of Lincoln. Lib. C. fol. 68. k.

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

To his Deed of two Tofts in Haburge, made Ecclesiae Sancti Martialis de Newhouse (the Original whereof also remained with Sir Simon Dewes aforesaid) he affixed his Seal, on the Reverse part whereof was in an Escocheon of Arms, Quarterly, with a Bend through the whole, and a Label of five Points; written about thus,—✚ SECRETUM HENRICI DE LACY.

Queeen Elinour's Grant to Henry Lacy Earl of Lincoln, That all his Tenants in the Mannor of Dynelnegh be quit of all Toll, Stallage, Payage, Pavage, Pontage, Murage, and Passage, for ever, per omnes Terras nostras Walliae, & in Comitatibus Cestriae, Staffordiae, Salopiae, Glocestriae, Wigorniae, & Herefordiae. Apud Gretindon, primo die Septembris, 18 Edw. 1. Tom. 1. of the Couchir-Books in the Dutchy-Office, fol. 28. num. 49.

Infinite other Grants were made to and by this Henry Lacy, which here would be tedious to mention.

He had two Wifes. Margaret Daughter of Sir William Longspée, and his onely Heir, was the first Wife of Henry Lacy, married about Christmas, 1256. 40 Hen. 3. For on Friday before Christmas in that Year, it was agreed between Sir Edmund Lacy on the one Part, and Sir William Longspée on the other Part, That whereas the Marriage of Henry Lacy, Son and Heir of the said Edmund, with Margaret Daughter and Heir of the said William, had been formerly mentioned in Gascoyne, it was now finished by the Consent of the Parties: And William Longspée gave with Margaret his Daughter and Heir, in Free-Marriage, to Henry Lacy, the Mannors of Burencester and Middleton, cùm omnibus Homagiis, Redditibus, & Servitiis: And Edmund Lacy gave for Joynture to the said Margaret his Mannors of Kypeis and Scales in Yorkshire. Lib. C. fol. 67. b. Tom. 2. of the Couchir-Books in the Dutchy-Office, Comitatus Oxoniae, num. 2. Henry Lacy was but six Years old when he was married.

This William de Longspée, although he was Right Heir to the Earldom of Salisbury, yet did he never enjoy the same: nor had Henry Lacy ever that Title; but all the Lands of this Longspée descended to him.

Henry Lacy had Issue by this Margaret two Sons, Edmund and John, and both died young; and also two Daughters, Alice and Margaret. Ferne in Lacy's Nobility calls Margaret by the Name of Joan, pag. 125. but falsly. Onely Alice survived, who be∣came Sole Heir to her Father, and married Thomas Plantagenet Earl of Lancaster, Ley∣cester, and Darby. Lib. C. fol. 86.

So was the Barony of Halton annexed and united to the Earldom of Lancaster.

Brooks and Fern say, That Edmund eldest Son of Henry Lacy was drowned in the Draw-well of Denbigh Castle; but I am told by a more Ancient Authority, Monasti∣con, 2 Pars, pag. 188 b. That in Anno 1282. Edward the First gave to Henry Lacy two Cantreds in Wales, to wit, Roos and Roweynock; and that the King, eodem Anno, gave to Edmund Lacy his Son a young Girl in Marriage, but five Years old, namely Maud the Daughter and Heir of Patrick de Chaworth by Isabel Beauchamp his Wife, Daughter of William de Beauchamp Earl of Warwick: Lib. C. fol. 73. e. But this Edmund Lacy died young without Issue; and John his Brother, running hastily in his Youth upon a Tur∣ret in Pomfret Castle in Yorkshire, fell down from the Walls and was killed.

The second Wife of Henry Lacy was Joan Daughter of William Martin Lord Keimis; but had no Issue by her. Lib. C. fol. 86. a.

This Great Henry Lacy, Earl of Lincoln, Constable of Cheshire, Baron of Halton,

Pomfret, Blackburnshire, Roos, & Roweynock, and Protector of England, died on the fifth day of February, 1310. 4 Edw. 2. at his own House in Chancery lane at London, now called Lincolns-Inn, and was buried at St. Paul's Church in London, in the New Work which was of his own Foundation, under a goodly Monument, with his Armed Pourtraicture cross-legged, as one that had taken a Voyage in Defence of the Holy Land. He was aged sixty Years at the time of his death: Wever's Funeral Monuments, pag. 366. and Stow in his Annals, sub Anno 1310. Lib. C. fol. 69. t.

Joan his Widow afterwards married Nicolas Lord Audley: Lib. C. fol. 69. v. which Nicolas died 1316.

And it is to be remembred, That in the Time of this Henry Lacy, who gave the Church of Whalley in Lancashire, with the Chappels thereof, unto the Monks of Stan∣law, the Abby of Stanlaw was Translated unto Whalley, scilicèt Anno Domini 1296. in Festo Sancti Ambrosii Episcopi, id est, 4 Aprilis: Lib. C. fol. 61. a. Domino Gregorio de Norbury tùnc Abbate.

Anno 1309. 3 Edw. 2. die Vincentii Martyris, obiit Gregorius de Norbury Primus Abbas de Whalley: An old Parchment Book of Whalley, in possession of Mr. Townley of Carre in Lancashire, 1657. fol. 23.

XI. Thomas Plantagenet Earl of Lancaster, Leyce∣ster,

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

and Derby, High Steward of England, (Son and Heir of Edmund Plantagenet sir-named Crook-back) was the eleventh Baron of Halton, in Right of Alice his Wife, Daughter and Sole Heir of Henry Lacy Earl of Lincoln and Constable of Cheshire.

He was Beheaded at Pomfret, his own Mannor, Anno Domini 1321. 15 Edw. 2. 22 die Martii, for Re∣belling against his Sovereign King Edward the Se∣cond: Stow and Walsingham. Leaving no Issue of his Body to succeed him; whose Lands were now for∣feited to the King.

Anno 1314. 8 Edw. 2. he purchased from Audomare de Valentia the Temple-house at London, (which for∣merly belonged to the Templars, but is since become a Society for the Students of our Law) with all the Lands and Rents thereto belonging in the Suburbs of London and in the County of Middlesex, which were of the Fee of the Honor of Leycester, and Con∣firmed unto him by the Grant of King Edward the Second, Dated at York, primo die Octobris, 8 Edw. 2. Tom. 2. of the Couchir-Books in the Dutchy-Office, Comitatus Middlesex.

Alice, the Widow of this Thomas, had the Earldom of Lincoln restored unto her by the King, during her Life, 20 die Septembris, 1322. 16 Edw. 2. She had also the Mannor of Halton in Cheshire, cùm pertinentiis, restored unto her for her Life, 12 die Julii, 16 Edw. 2. in which Deed she is stiled Countess of Lincoln and Salisbury: Lib. C. fol. 68. l. Afterwards she married Sir Eubulo le Strange, without the Kings Consent, about 1325. 19 Edw. 2. but had no Issue by him. Eubulo Lord Strange was in her Right made Earl of Lincoln: Vincent upon Broke, pag. 320. and he died about 7 Edw. 3. 1333. For, 9 Edw. 3. I find Alice stiled Countess of Lincoln and Salisbury: Lib. C. fol. 69. p. q.

After this, Alice married Hugh de Frenes to her third Husband, who usurped the Ti∣tle of Earl of Lincoln in her Right, and died 1334. Walsingham, pag. 134. but had no Issue by her.

Concerning this Alice, and one Richard de St. Martin, I shall give you here the Story out of Walsingham, sub Anno 1317. 10 Edw. 2. pag. 108, 109.

On Monday before Ascension-day, 1317. the Countess of Lancaster was Ravished at Caneford in Dorsetshire, by a certain Knight of the House of John Earl of Warren, very

many of the English being assistant to that detestable Fact, and by the Kings Assent, as it was said: She was brought in great Triumph to the Earl Warren's Castle of Ryegate, in dis∣grace of her Husband Thomas Earl of Lancaster; and by the way, the Conductors supposing they had seen Flags or Banners between the Hedges and Woods of Halton and Farnham afar off, (which was nothing but Priests in their Surplices walking Procession with the People in the Fields, according to their Custom) were struck with a great fear, thinking the Earl of Lan∣caster her Husband had been coming with a Power to revenge her Injury; and so ran away, leaving the Lady almost all alone: But the matter being discovered, they returned with Threat∣nings and Pomp; with whom there was a low, lame, hulch-back'd Fellow, of a malicious spi∣rit, called Richard dè St. Martin, who being backed with great Aid, challenged the misera∣bly-derided Lady for his Wife, protesting that he carnally knew her before she married the Earl of Lancaster; which she openly acknowledged to be true: And although she was reputed a most Noble Lady all her life-time before, she was by the Wheel of Fortune proclaimed an odi∣ous Strumpet: And the said Richard triumphing over her, presumes to challenge the Earl∣doms of Lincoln and Salisbury in the King's Court, as in Right of his Wife; but in vain, as shall after appear more fully. Thus Walsingham.

But here seems to be great improbability in this Story. Cambden tells us out of the Book of Stanlaw Monastery, that she was but nine Years old when she married Thomas Earl of Lancaster: Lincolnshire, pag. 409. And then St. Martin must lie with her before she was nine Years old, which is not probable. And then these Actions and Words done and said unto her in time of Hostility, to make the Earl odious, might be given out against her, as if she had confessed the Fact; though perhaps an absolute Falsity. Nor is it likely Eubulo Lord Strange would have married her, as he did, had these things been true which are here related by Walsingham.

This Countess Alice died Anno Domini 1348. 22 Edw. 3. Annóque aetatis suae sexage∣simo septimo; and was Buried at Berlyng Abby, by Eubulo her second Husband: Mona∣sticon, 2 Pars, pag. 190. leaving no Issue by any of her Husbands.

Now for the Lands which were the Inheritance belonging to this Alice, they are said to be worth 10000 Marks per Annum, and more; howbeit, she had not above 3000 Marks thereof per Annum allowed her by the King. Monasticon, Pars 2. pag. 189. b.

The Inheritance of Henry Lacy was so setled upon the Marriage of Alice his Daugh∣ter and Heir, that in Case Henry Lacy had no Heirs of his Body, in defect of such, then his Lands were to revert to Edmund the King's Brother, and to his Heirs for ever. Dated 28 Octobris, 22 Edw. 1. 1294. Lib. C. fol. 67. f. Monasticon, Pars 2. pag. 189. a.

So Alice having no Issue, all Henry Lacy's Lands came to the Earls of Lancaster.

But before I proceed, it will be requisite I say something here of the Earls of Lan∣caster before Thomas Plantagenet.

The first Earl of Lancaster I meet withal, was John sir-named Without Land, younger Brother to King Richard the First. He was afterwards King John, and therefore I shall say the less of him.

The next Earl of Lancaster was Edmund Plantagenet, sir-named Crook-back, younger Son to King Henry the Third, and Brother to King Edward the First.

He had given him by his Father—Honorem, Comitatum, Castrum, & Villam de Lancaster, & omia Dominica nostra quae sunt in Comitatu Lancastriae, cùm Vaccariis & Forestis de Wiresdale & Lounsdale; & Novum Castrum subtùs Limam; Manerium, Fo∣restam, & Castrum de Pickering; Manerium de Scaleby, Villam de Gomecester, redditúmque Villatae de Huntendon. Dated at St. Pauls in London, 30 die Junii, 51 Hen. 3. 1267. Lib. C. fol. 71. e. Tom. 1. of the Couchir-Books in the Dutchy-Office, fol. 1. num. 1. So he was made Earl of Lancaster, 1267.

He was also Earl of Leycester, and High Steward of England, by Patent dated 25 die Octobris, 49 Hen. 3. 1265. upon the Forfeiture of Simon de Montfort Earle of Leycester, who was slain at the Battel of Evesham, 5 die Augusti, 1265.

He was made Earl of Derby at Kenillworth, 28 Junii, 50 Hen. 3. wherein he hath granted unto him—Castra & omnes terras quae fuerunt Roberti de Ferrariis quondàm Co∣mitis Derbiae, qui Simoni de Monteforti quondàm Comiti Leycestriae, Inimico & Feloni no∣stro, & Imprisis suis adhaesit tempore Guerrae, quae nupèr in Regno nostro mota fuit per ipsum Simonem—Lib. C. fol. 71. g. Tom. 1. of the Couchir-Books in the Dutchy-Office, fol. 3. num. 11. Which Robert de Ferrars was also Lord of Tutbury; and was afterwards bound unto this Edmund, with William de Valentia Earl of Pembroke, John Warren Earl of Surrey, William de Beauchampe Earl of Warwick, and many other Sureties, for the Payment of 50000 l. Sterling in Quindenâ Johannis Baptistae proximè venturâ, 53 Hen. 3. for the Redemption of his Lands: Lib. C. fol. 71. I. But I find not that they were ever redeemed.

This Edmund was Invested King of Sicily and Apuly with a Ring sent from the Pope by the Bishop of Romania, 1255. 39 Hen. 3. Mat. Paris. But it was a meer delusion; for he never had it.

He had the Castle of Kenilworth given him, 16 Decembris, 51 Hen. 3. Lib. C. fol. 71. f. And the Savoy-House in London, by the Gift of Queen Elinor his Mother, 24 die Februarii, 12 Edw. 1. 1283. Lib. C. fol. 72. n. And the Castle of Chartley he had by the Grant of his Brother King Edward the First, 26 die Julii, 4 Edw. 1. 1276. Lib. C. fol. 72. k.

Anno Domini 1271. 55 Hen. 3. in the Month of May, Prince Edward Son of King Henry, with Edmund his Brother, and four Earls, and so many Barons, and many other Gentlemen, took a Voyage into the Holy Land. So Mat. Paris.

Edmund Earl of Lancaster married to his first Wife Aveline Daughter and Heir to William de Fortibus Earl of Albemarle and Holderness, and Widow to Ingram de Percy;* 38.10 but left no Issue by her. Vincent upon Broke, pag. 293. He married her the eighth day of April, 1270. Mat. Paris, pag. 1006. of the Edition by Wats; sed cùm totâ prole illa mortem Parentum praevenit: Walsingham in his Hypodigma Neustriae placeth her Marriage with Edmund Anno 1269.

His second Wife was Blanch Queen of Navarre, the Widow of Henry de Cham∣paigne King of Navarre, and Daughter of Robert Earl of Artois, Brother of St. Lewis King of France; in whose Right Edmund was Earl of Champaigne, 7 Edw. 1. So as he was now Earl of Lancaster, Leycester, Derby, and Champaigne, and High Steward of England. Vincent on Broke, Tit. Lancaster, pag. 293.

By Blanch the King of Navarre had Issue Joan married to Philip the Fair King of France. Vincent, pag. 293.

Blanch married Edmund Earl of Lancaster, Anno Domini 1276. and by him had Issue three Sons, Thomas Earl of Lancaster, the eleventh Baron of Halton in Right of his Wife, of whom I have spoken before, who Rebelled against his Prince, and died without Issue: Henry de Lancaster Lord of Monmouth, second Son, afterwards Earl of Lancaster, and Heir to his Brother Thomas: And John, third Son, who lived with the Queen of France his Half-Sister, and died there without Issue. Hypodigma Neustriae, pag. 473. & Lib. C. pag. 73. a. b.

Vincent, pag. 293. will have the Queen of Navarr's Name here to be Elinour, and not Blanch, from a Record which he there voucheth: Quaere, if that Record be not mistaken; for I find her called Blanch in sundry Deeds in the Register-Books of the Duke of Lancasters Evidences in the Dutchy-Office, called The two Couchir-Books.

Anno Domini 1296. 24 Edw. 1. this Edmund the King's Brother, and Henry Lacy Earl of Lincoln, went into Gascoyn with a strong Army, where many Castles were delivered unto them; but when they came within two Miles of Burdeaux, the French Army coming out of Burdeaux as it were unawares upon them, after a sore Conflict retreat∣ed to the City, and the Earls burned a great part of the Suburbs.

And shortly after, Edmund died: Hypodigma Neustriae, pag. 483. [Ob. 1296]

XII. Henry of Lancaster, Lord of Monmouth, sir-named Grismond, second Son of Edmund Crook-back, and Brother and Heir to Thomas Plantagenet Earl of Lancaster,

was restored to all his Brothers Lands and Honors,* 38.11 Anno Domini 1326. and then his Titles were thus,—Henricus Comes Lancastriae & Leycestriae, Seneschallus Angliae. Lib. C. fol. 74. k. 13 Edw. 3. And he was the twelfth Baron of Halton.

He married Maud Daughter and sole Heir of Sir Patrick de Chaworth or de Gadurcis, Lord of Kidwelly in Caermarthenshire, and of Ogmore Castle in Glamorganshire: Camb∣den's Britannia, Printed 1607. pag. 619. sub Titulo Lancastriae: & Lib. C. fol. 73. d.

This Maud was formerly given to Edmund Son of Henry Lacy Earl of Lincoln, by Ed∣ward the First, Anno 1282. being then a Girl but five Years old; which Edmund died very young, before he came to Maturity, without Issue, as you may see above in Henry Lacy.

Henry Earl of Lancaster had Issue by this Maud onely one Son, Henry, made Earl of Derby in his Fathers Life-time, to wit, 1336. 11 Edw. 3. Hypodigma Neustriae, and Vin∣cent, pag. 297. And six Daughters: Blanch married Thomas Lord Wake of Lidell: Maud married William Lord Burgh Earl of Ulster in Ireland, and after to Sir Rafe Ufford: Joan married John Lord Mowbray of Axholme: Isabel was Abbess of Ambersbury: Eli∣nour, first married to John Son of Henry Lord Beaumont, and Earl of Bughan in Scot∣land; after to Richard Earl of Arundel: And Mary, sixth Daughter, married Henry Lord Percy of Alnwick. So Broke in his Catalogue of Nobility.

This Henry of Lancaster, with others, was sent by the Queen into Wales (where the King then sculked) to take King Edward the Second her Husband; whom they took with Hugh Spenser the Son, Robert de Baldock, and Simon de Reading. The King was committed to the Custody of this Henry of Lancaster: This was in Anno 1326. Soon after this was the King deposed, and Edward his young Son made King, by the Name of Edward the Third: Which young King was Knighted by this Henry Earl of Lanca∣ster. Walsingham Hist. Ang. Edw. 2. pag. 125, 126, 127. But this Henry was in nothing more infamous, than in betraying his Lawful Sovereign.

[Obiit 1345] Anno Domini 1345. obiit Henricus Grismond, Frater Thomae Comitis Lancastriae: Jacet apud Leycestriam, X Calendas Octobris, which is the twenty second of our September, 19 Edw. 3. A Manuscript in the University Library at Oxford, among the Books gi∣ven by Archbishop Laud, of an ancient Character, noted—G. 9. fol. 125.

And Walsingham's Hist. Ang. Edw. 3. pag. 165. thus,—Anno 1345. 19 Edw. 3. obiit Henricus Comes Lancastriae, Pater Henrici Comitis de Derby; & Sepultus est Leycestriae in Monasterio Canonicorum, Praesentibus Rege & Reginâ, tàm antiquâ quàm novâ, Archi∣episcopis & Episcopis, Comitibus & Baronibus quasi totius Regni: Filius ejus eo tempore in Wasconiâ, ut praefertur, actus bellicosos & strenuos exercebat; quamobrèm interesse non potuit exequiis Patris sui.

XIII. Henry of Monmouth, sir-named Tort-Coll or Wry-neck, onely Son of Henry Grismond, succeeded his Father in all his Lands and Honors, and was the thirteenth Baron of Halton.

He was Earl of Derby in his Fathers Life-time, Created 16 Martii, 11 Edw. 3.

After his Fathers death, his Title was thus, 21 Edw. 3. 1346.—Henricus Comes Lancastriae, Derbiae, Leycestriae, Seneschallus Angeliae: Lib. C. fol. 75. o.

He was Created Earl of Lincoln, 23 Edw. 3. and then his Stile was, 1349.—Hen∣ricus Comes Lancastriae, Derbiae, Leycestriae, & Lincolniae, Seneschallus Angliae: Lib. C. fol. 75. P.

Lastly, He was Created Duke of Lancaster, 6 Martii, 25 Edw. 3. 1350. Vincent, pag. 297. Selden's Titles of Honour, pag. 754. But Walsingham placeth his Creation of Duke, Anno 1353. pag. 520. above two Years too late.

ThisHenry Repaired the Savoy House in the Strand in London, which cost him 52000 Marks, which Money he got at the Town of Bryggerak. Knighton, pag. 2627.

He was the first of all the Nobility of England (of a Subject) who was Invested with the Title of Duke since the Norman Conquest: For the Black Prince, who was made Duke of Cornwal fourteen Years before, though in truth he be a Subject, yet is he King Hereditarily if he survive; and therefore I look upon the Prince as a Higher Pitch than the other Nobility.

So the Earldom of Lancaster became a Dutchy.

Anno Domini 1354. 28 Edw. 3. this Henry Duke of Lancaster went Beyond-sea in great State, to have sought a Duel at Paris with the Duke of Brunswick, who had ta∣ken and spoiled his Goods as he returned from the Court of Rome, whither he was sent for the Confirmation of a Peace between the King of England and the King of France: But by Mediation of Friends it was taken up: Hypodigma Neustriae, pag. 520. See also Stow's Annals.

Anno 1345. in which Year his Father died, this Henry Sailed into Gascoyn with six hundred Armed Men, and so many Archers, who at the first Assault took the strong Town of Brigerak, and won fifty Towns and Cities to the King of England. He defeat∣ed the Army of the King of France which came against him, took twenty three Persons of Quality, besides a great number of Common Soldiers: The rest either ran away, or were killed. His Munificence was such, that, when he took any Town, he gave all the Booty to his Soldiers, kept little or nothing to hiself. Walsingham.

He married Isabel Daughter of Henry Lord Beaumont, by whom he had Issue two Daughters and Co-heirs: Maud married William Duke of Zeland, and Earl of Henault, eldest Son of Lewis Duke of Bavarre, Anno Domini 1352. 26 Edw. 3.

Blanch the other Daughter married John of Gaunt Earl of Richmond, fourth Son to King Edward the Third, 19 die Maii, 1359. 33 Edw. 3. at Rading, having a Dispensa∣tion of the Court because she was his Cosin. Walsingham and Stow.

How the Lands were divided between the two Sisters, take here these two follow∣ing Chartes, enrolled in one of the Couchir-Books in the Dutchy-Office at Grays-Inn, Tom. 2. Comitatus Norfolciae, num. 3. & Honor sive Soca de Bolingbroke, pag. 4. num. 4. Lib. C. fol. 77. dd. a.

SCiant praesentes & futuri, Quòd nos Johannes Episcopus Lincolniae, Robertus de la Mare, Johannes de Bukland, Johannes Charnells, Walterus Poer, Simon Simeon, & Johannes Neumarche, Concessimus—Willielmo Comiti de Henaud & de Leycestriâ, & Matildae Uxori ejus, Filiae Domini Henrici nupèr Ducis Lancastriae, Maneria de Gymingham, Thesford, Mathe, Wolde, & Tunstede, & Hundreda de Galhowe, & Brothercors, cùm pertinen∣tiis; & triginta & novem Feoda, & quartam partem unius Feodi Militum cùm pertinentiis, in Canefeld, Eysten Attemount, Horton, Berewyk, Creke, Waterdene, Snyterle, Barsham, Sidesterne, Wyneton, Salthus, Gresham, Aylemerton, Clopton, Fyncheam, Northwald, Feltewell, Roukelound, Middleton, East-Rudham, West-Rudham, Sal, Haydon, Kerdeston, Wodedalling, Repam, Bergh, Hegheton, Rongham, Fransham, Weting, Toftes, Croxton, Gresynghale, Lexam, Elsyng, Wesenham, Tanerham, Drayton, Swynington, Alderford, Lyneford, Grimeston, Congham, Bykeston in Goldest∣thorp, Stanfeld, Briselye, Bilneye, Titeleshale, West-Lexam, Skernynge, & Ho, & Advocationes Abbathiae Marham, Prioratus Canonicorum de Thesford, Hospitalium Domus Dei de Thesford, Sanctae Mariae Magdalenae de Thesford, & Sancti Johannis de Thesford, ac Ecclesiarum de Suthreppes, Northreppes, Trymingham, Manesele, Eykesthorpe, Bradefelde, Swathefeld, & Beston, & medietatis Ecclesiae de Aylmerton; àc etiàm duo Feoda Militum cùm pertinentiis, in Westfeld & Brantham: Habenda & tenenda praedictis Willielmo Comiti de Henaud & de Leycestriâ, & Matildae Uxori ejus, & Haeredibus de Corpore ejusdem Matildae exeuntibus, de Domino Rege Angliae, & aliis Capitalibus Dominis Feodi.—Et si contingat, quòd praedicta Ma∣tilda obîerit sinè Haerede de Corpore suo exeunte, quod absit, ex tùnc omnia praedicta Mane∣ria, Hundreda, Feoda Militum, & Advocationes cùm pertinentiis suis, plenariè & integrè remaneant rectis Haeredibus Domini Henrici nupèr Ducis Lancastriae in perpetuùm—&c. [ 1361] Da∣tum apud Londoniam, 22 die Octobris, 35 Edw. 3.

SCiant praesentes & futuri, Quòd nos Johannes Dei Gratiâ Episcopus Lincolniae, Ri∣cardus Comes Arundelliae, Robertus de la Mare, Johannes de Bukland, Johannes Char∣nells, Walterus Poer, Simon Simeon, & Johannes Newmarche, Concessimus—nobili viro Johanni Comiti Lancastriae & Richmondiae, & Blanchiae Uxori ejus, & Haeredibus suis de Corporibus eorum legitimè procreatis, Castrum de Bolingbroke & Parcum eidem Castro per∣tinentem, eùm omnibus Advocationibus Ecclesiarum, Abbathiarum, Prioratuum, Hospitalium,

& aliarum Domorum Religiosarum, & Feodis Militum, praedicto Castro & Sokae de Boling∣broke pertinentibus, quae habuimus ex dono & redditione Nobilis Viri Henrici Ducis Lanca∣striae pèr Finem in Curiâ Domini Regis indè leuatum; adeò plenè & integrè sicùt Henricus de Lacy quondàm Comes Lincolniae ea tenuit & habuit. Retentis nobis Manerio, Villâ, & So∣câ de Bolingbroke, ac Maneriis de Sutton, Thoresby, Wathe, & Ingoldsmeles, cùm pertinen∣tiis in Comitatu Lincolniae—Concessimus etiàm Castrum, Villam, Mannerium, & Honorem de Tutbury—ac Villas de Strepton, Merchington, Chalangewood, Uttexhater, Adgarest, & Newburgh, cùm pertinentiis in Comitatu Staffordiae; & Hundredum de Higham-Ferrers, ac Maneria de Hegham-Ferrers, Raundes, Rissheden, cùm pertinentiis in Comitatu Northam∣ptoniae;—ità quòd si idem Comes & Blanchia obierint sinè Haerede de Corporibus suis ex∣eunte, quòd tùnc post decessum ipsorum Comitis & Blanchiae, omnia praedicta Castra, Mane∣ria, &c. remaneant rectis Haeredibus ipsius Henrici Ducis Lancastriae; Tenenda de Domino Rege, & Haeredibus suis, per Servitia indè debita & consueta in perpetuum. In cujus rei testimonium huic praesenti Chartae Sigilla nostra apposuimus. Hiis Testibus, Edwardo Principe Walliae, Illustris Regis Angliae Filio Primogenito, Willielmo Episcopo Wintoniae, Cancellario Angliae, Simone Abbate Westmonasterii Angliae Thesaurario, Johanne de Bukyngham Northamptoniae Archidiacono, Henrico Greene, & Roberto de Thorpe, Justiciariis Domini Regis Angliae, & aliis. Datum Londini, die Dominicâ, proximè post Festum Sancti Mar∣tini, 35 Edw. 3.

So that William Earl of Henault had the Earldom of Leycester, and John of Gaunt had the Earldom of Lancaster.

And after the death of Maud Countess of Leycester, who died without Issue Anno Domini 1381. the Earldom of Leycester, and all Maud's Part of the Lands belonging to Henry Duke of Lancaster her Father, reverted unto John of Gaunt, in Right of Blanch his Wife the other Sister.

[Obiit 1360] Henry Duke of Lancaster died on the Eve before our Lady-day, 35 Edw. 3. which is the last Day of the Year, 1360. at Leycester, where he was buried. Walsingham, pag. 178. saith he died Anno 1361. But he accounts the Year from Christmas, not from our Lady-day.

It will not be impertinent if I put down here the Claims of this Henry Duke of Lancaster, as Baron of Halton, upon a Quo Warranto brought against him, as I find them Transcribed in one of the Couchir-Books in the Dutchy-Office, to wit, Tom. 1. Co∣mitatus Cestriae, fol. 45. num. 21. Lib. C. fol. 91.

HENRICUS Dux Lancastriae, Constabularius & Mareschallus Cestriae, & Domi∣nus Manerii de Halton, clamat per se & Haeredibus suis, habere infrà Dominium suum Manerii sui de Halton, Castrum suum Kernellatum apud Halton; & habere ibidèm Prisonam, & capere ibidèm Castle-ward; & habere infra Manerium Dominii sui Infang∣theof, Outfang-theof, Waif, Wreck, Stray, & visum Franci-Flegii, & quicquid ad visum pertinet, de omnibus Tenentibus & Residentibus infrà Dominium suum praedictum extrà Burgos de Halton & Congelton, tenendum bis per Annum; videlicèt, semèl intèr Festa San∣cti Michaelis Archangeli & Michaelis in Monte Tumba* 40.1, apud Halton; & iterùm inter Festa Annunciationis Beatae Mariae & Inventionis Sanctae Crucis† 40.2, apud Thelwall quod est infrà Dominium suum praedictum, per rationabilem praemonitionem; & habere liberum Parcum suum apud Halton cùm duobus Saltatoribus* 40.3 in eodem Parco; & habere liberam Warrennam in omnibus Dominicis Terris suis infrà Dominium suum Manerii praedicti.

Itèm clamat tenere Villam suam de Halton, ut liberum Burgum; & habere ibidèem liberos Burgenses: Et quòd ipse, & Burgenses sui ejusdem Burgi, erunt quieti de Theoloneo, Pas∣sagio, Pontagio, & de Stuth* 40.4 pro omnibus rebus per eos emptis & venditis, tàm in Civi∣tate Cestriae, quàm per totum Comitatum Cestriae, praeterquàm de Theoloneo Salis in VVychis.

Itèm, Clamat habere in eodem Burgo liberam Curiam suam de Quindenâ in Quindenam tenendam; & Cognitionem Placiti liberi Tenementi de omnibus Tenementis in eodem Burgo coràm Seneschallo suo ibidèm, per Billam seu Querelam sivè Breve; & visum Franci Plegii, & quicquid ad visum pertinet, de omnibus Tenentibus & Residentibus in eodem Burgo: Te∣nendum

tèr pèr Annum, videlicèt semèl intèr Festa Sancti Michaelis Archangeli & Sancti Martini in Hyeme; & iterùm intèr Festa Sancti Hilarii & Annunciationis Beatae Mariae; & tertiò intèr Festa Sanctae Trinitatis & Assumptionis Beatae Mariae.

Item, Clamat habere in eodem Burgo quoddam Mercatum singulis Septimanis per diem Sabbati* 40.5 & habere ibidèm duas Ferias annuatìm, videlicèt, unam Feriam tenendam per quatuor dies proximè antè Festum Nativitatis Beatae Mariae† 40.6, & in Festo, & per duos dies proximè sequentes: & aliam Feriam in Vigiliâ Festi Beatae Catharinae* 40.7 Virginis, & in die ejusdem Festi, cùm omnibus libertatibus & prosicuis quae ad Mercatum vel ad Ferias per∣tinent.

Itèm, Clamat habere aliam liberam Curiam annual ìm de Quindenâ in Quindenam tenendam apud Halton, vel alibì ubicunquè voluerit infrà Feodum Dominii sui praedicti per rationabi∣lem praemonitionem: Et in eadem Curiâ habere cognitionem Placitorum de Transgressionibus, Conventionibus, Debito, & Vecio Namio ad Sectam Partis: Et si Praesentatum sit per Balli∣vos dicti Ducis Curiae suae praedictae, quòd aliquis Hominum, Tenentium, seu Residentium in∣frà Feodum Dominii sui praedicti, fregerit Pacem vel Assisam Panis seu Cervisiae seu Car∣nis, aut Carnes malas vendiderit, ceù Affraiam fecerit, vel Hutegium† 40.8 levaverit, vel falsa Pondera vel Mensuras falsas usus fuerit infrà eundem Feodum, ceù vendiderit Pisces captos infrà Feodum praedictum antè horam primam alicujus diei; quòd tùnc Ballivi dicti Ducis Curiae suae praedictae per Processum debitum, scilicèt, per Attachiamentum & Distri∣ctionem, facient eosdem Transgressores venire ad respondendum in Curiâ praedictâ; de qui∣bus si convicti fuerint,—&c.

Itèm, Dux clamat habere Fines & Amerciamenta illorum, & punitionem dictorum Trans∣gressorum in formâ juris; pro quibus Transgressionibus si posteà indictati fuerint coràm Ju∣sticiario Cestriae, vel Vicecomite Cestershiriae, vel aliquibus aliis Ministris dicti Comitis Ce∣striae, pro praedictis Finibus ceù Amerciamentis, ceù Punitionibus per Ballivos dicti Ducis factis, erunt quieti.

Itèm, Clamat, quòd si aliquis Conquestus fuerit in eâdem Curiâ, quòd aliquis disseisans eum in libero Tenemento suo infrà Feodum Dominii sui praedicti extrà Burgos de Halton & Congleton per Billam, in naturâ Novae Disseisinae, quòd tùnc Ballivi dicti Ducis ejusdem Cu∣riae facient Processum versùs Partem Defendentem per Attachiamentum & Districtionem, quousquè venerit in Curiam praedictam ad respondendum de Placito praedicto: Et si Pars de∣fendens dedicat disseisinam, & ponit se supèr Patriam, tùnc ambabus Partibus consentientibus capiatur Inquisitio in naturâ Assisae Novae Disseisinae: Et si indè convictus fuerit de Disseisi∣nâ, recuperet Pars querens Seisinam suam simùl cùm damnis suis, & Pars Desendens in misericordiâ: quam quidèm misericordiam idem Dux clamat habere.

Itèm clamat, quòd si aliquis Conquestus fuerit in praedictâ Curiâ versus aliquem de ali∣quâ viâ arctatâ, obstructâ, vel obstupefactâ, vel de aliquibus aliis hujusmodi nocumentis, in∣frà Dominii sui praedicti Feodum factis, vel etiàm pèr Ballivos dicti Ducis dictae Curiae prae∣sentatum fuerit tale nocumentum per aliquem Forefactum infrà eundem Feodum, quòd tùnc Seneschallus Curiae praedictae per Attachiamentum & Districtionem faciat dictum Transgres∣sorem venire in Curiam praedictam ad respondendum de nocumento praedicto, & tùnc si ipse in eâdem Curiâ se ponere voluerit, & indè convictus fuerit, quòd tùnc gravitèr amercie∣tur; & dabit Seneschallo dictae Curiae unum Bovem, & nocumentum illud removere debet; quod quidem Amerciamentum idem clamat habere.

Itèm clamat, quòd si aliquis acquisiverit liberum Tenementam infrà Feodum Dominii sui praedicti sine Licentiâ suâ, & illud praesentatum sit per Ballivos dicti Ducis Curiae suae prae∣dictae, quòd tùnc idem Acquisitor attachiari debet per Ballivos ejusdem Curiae ad responden∣dum dicto Duci in Curiâ praedictâ de acquisitione praedictâ: Et si inde convictus fuerit, da∣bit praedicto Duci rationabilem Finem secundùm quantitatem Tenementi acquisiti, & secun∣dùm Considerationem Seneschalli, & Judicatorum ejusdem Curiae.

Item clamat habere Stallagium de omnibus Merchandizam exercentibus infrà certas Villas Dominii sui praedicti; videlicet, Halton, Runcorne, Weston, Clifton, Sutton, Aston juxtà Sutton, Middleton, Aston-Grange, Stokham, Norton, Preston, Daresbery, Newton, Rek∣wick, Moore, Acton-Grange, VValton superiorem, VValton inferiorem, Hull & Appulton, Thelwall, Stretton, Hatton, Nether-VVhitley, Over-VVhitley, Comberbach, Budworth

juxtà Comberbach, Aston juxtà Budworth, Merebury, Cogshull, Berthington, Legh, & Dutton. Et quòd nulli hominum Tenentium seu Residentium infrà Villas praedictas facere debent sectam seu apparentiam coràm Justiciariis ad Placita, vocatis Eyres, nec ad Turnum Vicecomitis pro aliquâ re, nisi solummodo ad visus & Curias dicti Ducis praedictas; & quòd nulli hominum Tenentium ceù Residentium infrà Villas praedictas, Summoneantur, Attachien∣tur, Distringantur, seù Capiantur infrà Villatas praedictas, ad respondendum alicui coràm Justiciariis in Placitis praedictis, nec coràm Vicecomite in Turno suo praedicto, nec in Hun∣dredo, nisi ipsi, vel Catalla, vel Tenementa sua, sint ceù inveniantur extrà Villas prae∣dictas.

Item clamat habere Aquam de Mersey apertam à quodam loco vocato Frespoole usque ad Piscariam dicti Ducis de Thelwall, tam in solo alieno quàm in solo suo proprio, ità largam quòd habere possit Passagium cùm quodam Batello de octo Ferreys sinè impedimento, per filum dictae aquae usquè ad dictam Piscariam, & redire omni tempore anni,—&c. Et si aliquid no∣cumentum ibidèm factum fuerit ad contrarium, liceat ei illud amovere, &c.

Itèm clamat habere omnes Pisces Regales captos ceu inventos infrà Feodam Dominii sui prae∣dicti.

Itèm clamat ratione Dominii sui de Halton fore Constabularium & Mareschallum Domini Comitis Cestriae, & habere omnia Feoda & Proficua, quae ad ea pertinent.

Itèm clamat ratione Dominii sui & Constabulariae suae praedictae, habere Advocarias suas per totum Comitatum Cestriae de omnibus, qui se in Advocariis suis se ponere voluerint; & habere omnia Proficua & Libertates, quae ad illas Advocarias pertinent.

Itèm clamat, Quòd ipse & Tenentes sui de quâdam Salinâ in Northwycho de XII Plumbis, vocatâ Whitley-Wich-house, sint quieti de Theoloneo praestando pro Sale in eâdem Salinâ facto & vendito: ac Emptores ejusdem Salis in eâdem Salinâ facti & empti, erunt quieti de The∣oloneo pro eodem praestando in eâdem Villâ.

Itèm clamat habere infrà Feodum Dominii sui praedicti unum Magistrum Servientem* 40.9 ad aequum juratum cùm octo Subservientibus, & duobus Garcionibus† 40.10 sub eodem Magistro ju∣rato ad custodiendam Pacem per totum Feodum praedictum, & ad Serviendum dicto Duci de Executionibus Curiarum suarum praedictarum faciendis: qui quidem Magister Serviens cùm Subservientibus & Garcionibus suis praedictis habere debebent Puturam* 40.11, vel rationabi∣lem Finem pro Puturâ eâdem, de omnibus Tenentibus tres Landas Terrae vel plures, Terra∣rum vocatarum Warland, infrà Feodum praedictum; scilicèt, pro dicto Magistro Serviente, & duobus Subservientibus suis, & uno Garcione cùm uno Tenente Tenentium praedictorum, Coe∣nare, pernoctare, & in die proximè sequenti antè recessum suum jentare; & pro aliis duobus Subservientibus cùm uno Garcione cùm alio Tenente Tenentium praedictorum similitèr Coe∣nare, pernoctare, & in die proximè sequenti antè recessum suum jentare; & pro aliis duobus Subservientibus cùm alio Tenente Tenentium praedictorum similiter Coenare, pernoctare, & in die proxime sequenti ante recessum suum jentare: Et pro aliis duobus Subservientibus cùm alio Tenente Tenentium praedictorum similiter Coenare, pernoctare, & in die proxime sequenti ante recessum suum jentare: Et sic de sex Septimanis in sex Septimanas separatìm annuatìm in formâ praedictâ Coenare, pernoctare, & jentare: Ità quod quilibet Tenens Tenentium prae∣dictorum cùm quo praedictus Magister Serviens cùm duobus Subservientibus & uno Garcione vel etiàm cum quo duo de Subservientibus praedictis cùm uno Garcione, vel etiàm cùm quo duo de Subservientibus praedictis in formâ praedictâ coenaverunt, pernoctaverunt, & jentave∣runt, erit quietus tàm de dicto Magistro Serviente, quàm de aliis Subservientibus & Garcio∣nibus praedictis pascendis, per sex Septimanas proxime tùnc sequentes: Et idem Magister Serviens habere debet de quolibet Tenente Tenentium praedictorum pro Equo suo unum Bushel Avenarum pro Prebendâ* 40.12 capiendâ annuatìm inter Festa Sancti Michaelis & Inventionis Sanctae Crucis.

Itèm clamat, quòd si dicti Servientes seu Ballivi sui aliquem Latronem pro aliquo furto ubicunque fuerit, facto cùm manuopere infrà Feodum Dominii sui praedicti ceperint, seù attachiaverint, & si ille Latro Feloniam illam coràm quatuor Villatis spontaneâ voluntate cognoverit, tùnc liceat dictis Servientibus seu Ballivis suis dictum Latronem decollare: Et dictus Dux tùnc habebit omnia Bona & Catalla dicti Latronis infrà Feodum suum praedictum inventa.

Item clamat, quòd si aliquis captus fuerit infrà Feodum Dominii sui praedicti per dictos Servientes seu Ballivos suos cùm Manuopere alicujus Feloniae, quòd tùnc, Feloniâ illâ cogni∣tâ aut incognitâ, liceat dictis Servientibus seu Ballivis ducere dictum Felonem ad Prisonam dicti Ducis apud Halton, & ibidem illum retinere per tres Curias ibidem proxime sequentes, ad quas venient omnes Judicatores & Sectatores Curiae praedictae per rationabilem praemoni∣tionem: Et in quâcunque Curiâ illarum liceat Seneschallo ejusdem Curiae illum Felonem de dictâ Feloniâ ibidem arrainiare: Et si ille Felo se ponere ibidem voluerit super Inquisitionem Curiae praedictae, tunc liceat Seneschallo illam Inquisitionem capere: Et si ipsum inde culpabi∣lem invenerit, tunc liceat dictis Servientibus seu Ballivis suis dictum Felonem super Furcas dicti Ducis de Halton suspendere; & Bona & Catalla dicti Felonis infra Feodum Dominii sui praedicti inventa habebit dictus Dux sibi Forisfacta: Et si dictus Felo in nullâ Curiarum praedictarum se ponere voluerit super Inquisitionem ibidem, tunc mandetur ad Castrum Ce∣striae: Et si ibidem dictus Felo convictus fuerit, reducatur per Servientes seu Ballivos dicti Ducis ad furcas ejusdem Ducis de Halton, & ibidem suspendatur; seu si Finem inde fecerit Domino Comiti Cestriae, tunc in utroque Casu idem Dux clamat omnia Bona & Catalla dicti Felonis infra Feodum Dominii sui praedicti inventa.

Item clamat habere Market-Geld de Villatis de Weston, Aston juxta Sutton, Middleton, Preston, Newton, Kekwick, Moore, Daresbery, Halton, Over-Walton, Nether-Walton, Stretton, Appulton, Middlehurst in Gropenhall, Over-Whitley, Comberbach, Merebury, Budworth, Aston juxta Budworth, Nether-Tabley, Berthinton, Dutton, Plumley, Over-Tabley, Toft, Bexton, Knotsford-Booths, Millington, Limme, & Lostock: Quae sunt in∣fra Feodum Dominii sui praedicti.

Item clamat habere Villam suam de Congleton liberum Burgum, & habere ibidem liberos Burgenses: Et quod ipsi Burgenses sui praedicti erunt quieti de Theoloneo, Passagio, Ponta∣gio, & Stuth, tam in Civitate Cestriae quam per totum Comitatum Cestriae, praeterquam de Theoloneo Salis in Wichis; & habere ibidem unum Mercatum quâlibet septimanâ per diem Sabbati; & unam Feriam ibidem per Annum, videlicet, in die Sancti Martini in Hyeme cum omnibus Libertatibus & Proficuis, quae ad Mercatum seu ad Feriam pertinent. Et habere ibidem Visum Franci Plegii, & quicquid ad visum pertinet, de omnibus Tenentibus & Re∣sidentibus infra Burgum praedictum: Tenendum ter per Annum, videlicet, semel inter Festa Sancti Michaelis & Sancti Martini in Hyeme, & iterum inter Festa Sancti Hilarii & An∣nunciationis Beatae Mariae; & tertio inter Festa Sanctae Trinitatis & Assumptionis Beatae Ma∣riae: Et habere ibidem Cognitionem Placiti de libero Tenemento in Burgo praedicto per Par∣vum Breve de Recto Clausum; Tenendum coram Ballivis dicti Ducis: Et habere exitus, Fines, & Amerciamenta inde provenientia.

Item clamat habere liberam Curiam in Civitate Cestriae de omnibus Sutoribus, & liberis Tenentibus suis, in eadem Civitate; Tenendum bis per Annum.

Item idem Dux, Dominus & Baro de Halton, clamat pro se & Haeredibus suis, habere liberam Curiam de omnibus Placitis & Querelis in Curiâ Domini Comitis Cestriae, infra Feo∣dum dictae Baroniae emergentibus, exceptis Placitis ad Gladium Domini Comitis Cestriae perti∣nentibus.

Item clamat, quod si quis hominum suorum pro aliquo delicto captus fuerit, per ipsum Baronem sine redemptione Replegietur, ita quod dictus Baro eum perducat ad tres Comitatus, & eum quiete reducat nisi Sakerbor* 40.13 ipsum sequatur.

Ita clamat, quod si aliquis Adventitius, qui fidelis sit, in terras ejus venerit, & si placu∣erit morari; liceat ei ipsum habere & reducere, Salvis Domino Comiti Cestriae Advocariis, qui sponte ad se venerint; & aliis; qui pro transgressu aliunde ad dignitatem suam veniunt; & non eis extraneis qui sunt in Advocariâ dicti Ducis ad Dominium suum de Halton pertinen∣tibus.

Item clamat, quod si Vicecomes Domini Comitis Cestriae, vel aliquis Serviens in Curia sua, aliquem hominum dicti Baronis inculpaverit, pro Thirtnyk* 40.14 se defendere poterit, nisi Secta eum sequatur.

Item clamat habere quietantiam de Garbis & Oblationibus, quas Servientes & Bedelli Do∣mini Comitis Cestriae exigere solebant.

Item clamat, quod si aliquis Judex vel Sectarius Hundredi aut Comitatus in Curia Domini

Comitis Cestriae in misericordiam ceciderit, per duos Solidos quietus sit Judex; Sectarius autem per duodecem Denarios.

Item clamat, quod non faciat aliquod Servitium Domino Comiti Cestriae extra Lyme & Cluyd, nisi per Gratum suum & ad Costum Domini Comitis Cestriae.

Item clamat, quod omnia Maneria sua Dominica in Comitatu & Hundredo per unum Se∣neschallum praesentem defendere possit.

In a little Parchment Schedule among my own Evidences, I find some part of Halton-Fee, as followeth; which I here have rendred in English, because of some ob∣solete Latin Words therein.

HUgo de Preston Bayliff of the Serjeanty of Halton, 33 Edw. 3. 1359. For Account before William Blaby, then Auditor to the Duke of Lancaster, for 4 l. 13. s. 4 d.

	l.	s.	d.
For Rent in Pever* 40.15	00	06	08	at two Terms.
Alderley† 40.16	00	05	00	die Johannis Baptistae.
Listard	00	13	04	Martlemas.
Birtles	00	12	00	Martlemas.
Macclesfield	00	01	00	eodem Termino.
Toft	00	07	00	eodem Termino.
Henbury & Pexhull	02	00	00	eodem Termino.
Cotton	00	07	11	eodem Termino.
Middlehurst in Gropenhall	00	00	04	eodem Termino.

	l.	s.	d.
Unde Termino Martini	04	04	11
In die Nativitatis Joh. Bapt.	00	08	04

	s.	d.
And of	03	01	in Hulme at Wallfield, Termino Martini.
And	01	00	from the Shoe-makers of Chester, Termino Martini.
And	00	01	ob. for a Manchester-Knife with a Horn Haft, out of Milling∣ton, eodem Termino.
And	01	00	from Adam Clayton, for his Tenement in Thelwall, or one Pair of Stag-leather Gloves Furred with Fox, Termino Mi∣chaelis.
And	14	00	Rent from the Fre-men of Chester City, Termino Martini.
And	02	04	From a Tenement in Longdendale, for the Ward of the Ways, which they used to keep at the time of Chester-Fair; Termino Johannis Baptistae.
And	02	00	in Nether-Walton, for the Liberty of taking Salmons in Mersey, at our Lady-day.
And	00	06	for a Pair of White Spurs, from William Mobberley, for his Lands in Plumley; Termino Johannis Baptistae.

XIV. John of Gaunt, fourth Son of King Edward

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

HONI SOIT QVI MAL Y PENSE

the Third, was born at Gaunt in Flanders, 1339. 13 Edw. 3. was Created Earl of Richmond 16 Edw. 3. 1342. Couchir-Book in the Dutchy-Office, Tom. 1. fol. 411. b. Comitatus Richmondiae, num. 2. Lib. C. fol. 77. c. And he had Castrum, Villam, & Honorem de Hartford given unto him by his Father, 20 die Maii, 34 Edw. 3. 1360.

He was Created Duke of Lancaster in Right of his first Wife, Blanch Daughter and Co-heir of Henry Duke of Lancaster, 13 die Novembris, 36 Edw. 3. 1361. Couchir-Book in le Dutchy-Office, Tom. 1. fol. 142. num. 1. And after the death of Maud the other Daughter and Co-heir of Henry Duke of Lancaster, who died without Issue Anno 1381. the Earldom of Leycester, and all Maud's Part of the Lands which belonged to Henry Duke of Lancaster, reverted unto John of Gaunt.

Blanch his first Wife died Anno Domini 1369. 43 Edw. 3. and was buried at St. Paul's Church in Lon∣don: Walsingham. By whom he had Issue, Henry of Bolingbrok, so called because he was born at Boling∣broke Castle, made Earl of Derby in his Father's Life-time, scilicèt, Anno 1385. 9 Rich. 2. and Duke of Hereford also 1397. 21 Rich. 2. And in the Year following, 1398. this Henry Duke of Hereford accused Thomas Mowbray Duke of Norfolk for speaking certain Words in dishonour of the King's Person; which the Duke of Norfolk denied: Whereupon they had a Combat granted by the King, to have been fought at Coventry on the se∣venteenth day of September, both of them entring the Lists courageously: But the King took up the Matter, causing it to be Proclaimed, That the Duke of Hereford had honourably performed his Part; and presently after Banished the Duke of Hereford for ten Years, and the Duke of Norfolk for ever: So Stow and Walsingham. But this Duke of Hereford returning into England, Deposed Richard the Second, causing the King to read his own Resignation of the Crown to this Henry publickly in the Tower, before the Nobles of England: Walsingham's Hist. pag. 359. Cursed Traytors! And so by force of Arms made himself King, by the Name of Henry the Fourth.

So was the Dutchy of Lancaster, and the Barony of Halton, united to the Crown of England.

John of Gaunt had also Issue by Blanch two Daughters: Elizabeth married John Hol∣land Duke of Exeter, and after to Sir John Cornwall, Knight of the Garter, and Baron of Fanhope: Philippa, the other Daughter, married John King of Portugal.

After the death of Blanch, he married Constantia Daughter and Co-heir to Petro late King of Spain; and Edmund Earl of Cambridge, his Brother, married Isabella the other Daughter, Anno Domini 1372. 46 Edw. 3. Stow and Walsingham: Lib. C. fol. 78. f. And from this time he writ himself King of Castile and Leons. By this Con∣stance he had Issue Katharine, married to Henry Son of John King of Spain, 1389.

Upon the Marriage of Katharine, a Peace was concluded between John of Gaunt and the King of Spain: John of Gaunt was to have ten thousand Pounds yearly for his own Life, and the Life of Constance his Wife: Walsingham: Who before, in the Year 1367. had routed the Spaniards in a great Battel between him and Henry the Ba∣stard, who had ejected Peter King of Spain.

Constance died Anno Domini 1394. Walsingham.

John of Gaunt, relinquishing his Title of King of Castile and Leons, was Created Duke of Aquitain by Consent of Parliament, 2 die Martii, 13 Rich. 2. 1389. And then his Title, Anno 1394. 18 Rich. 2. did run thus.—

Johannes Filius Regis Angliae, Dux Aquitaniae & Lancastriae, Comes-Leycestriae, Lincol∣niae & Derbiae, Seneschallus Angliae. Couchir-Book in the Dutchy-Office, Tom. 2. Comitatus Southampton, num. 36.

For he had Honorem de Tickhil, 46 Ed. 3. while he was stiled King of Castile and Leons, and Duke of Lancaster; & Castrum & Leucatam de Pevenese (inter alià), in exchange for the Earldom of Richmond, 46 Edw. 3. And by his Brother the Black Prince, Earl of Che∣ster, he had 100 Marks yearly given him out of the Exchequer at Chester, during his Life, by the Name of John by the Grace of God King of Castile and Leons, and Duke of Lancaster: 47 Edw. 3. 1373. Lib. C. fol. 78. e.

After the death of Constance his second Wife the Duke went into Aquitain, scilicet, Anno 1396. 19 Rich. 2. to have obtained the Good-will of the Inhabitants, having the Title of Duke of Aquitain conferred upon him before by his Father; but was sud∣denly called back into England by the King: And as soon as he returned into England, he married Katharine Swynford his old Concubine, to the wonder of all Men; which Katharine formerly waited on Blanch his first Wife: Stow and Walsingham.

This Katharine was the Daughter of Payn Roet, alias Guyen, King at Arms, and Widow of Sir Otes Swynford; by whom John of Gaunt had Issue before he married her; Sir John Beaufort, the eldest, was Earl of Somerset, and Marquis Dorset, which Marquis-ship was taken away by Parliament, 1 Hen. 4. Henry de Beaufort was after Bishop of Winchester, Cardinal of St. Eusby sive Euscbii, and Chancellor of England; Thomas Created Earl of Dorset 21 Rich. 2. Joan de Beaufort was second Wife of Raufe Nevill, the first Earl of Westmorland; after she married Robert Ferrers Lord of Owse∣ley. They were all sir-named de Beaufort, because they were born at Beaufort in France. All which were Legitimated by Parliament, 1397. 20 Rich. 2. to all Purposes, Ho∣nors, State, and Dignities, exceptâ Dignitate Regale, as you may see in the Record tran∣scribed by the Lord Cook in his Jurisdiction of Courts, pag. 37. Lib. C. fol. 82. P.

Walsingham, put out by Mr. Cambden, calls Thomas Beaufort, Comitem de Somerset, all along, pag. 354. & 550. for Dorset; unless the Title of Somerset and Dorset were pro∣miscuous. See Vincent on Brooke, pag. 169.

Katharine Synford died in May, 4 Hen. 4. 1403. Stow.

This John procured the County of Lancaster to be made a County Palatine; to whom his Father King Edward the Third by his Charter granted Jura Regalia: And when he hath reckoned up the Good Service which the said John of Gaunt his Son had done for his Countrey at home and abroad, he addeth,—Concessimus pro nobis & Haeredibus nostris praefato Filio nostro, quod ipse ad totam vitam suam habeat infra Comita∣tum Lancastriae Cancellariam suam, ac Brevia sua sub Sigillo suo pro Officio Cancellarii de∣putando consignanda, Justiciarios suos tam ad Placita Coronae quam ad quaecunque alia Placi∣ta Communem legem tangentia tenenda, & Cognitiones eorundem, & quascunque Executiones per Brevia sua, & Ministros suos ibidem, faciendas; Et quascunque alias libertates, & Ju∣ra Regalia ad Comitatum Palatinum pertinentia, adeo libere & integre, sicut Comes Cestriae infra eundem Comitatum Cestriae dignoscitur obtinere,—&c. 28 die Februarii, Anno Edw. 3. Angliae 51, & Franciae 38. Couchir-Book of the Dutchy-Office, Tom: 1. fol. 430. num. 16. Confirmed to him and his Heirs by Consent of Parliament, 16 die Febrùarii, 13 Rich. 2. Ibidem, Tom. 1. fol. 52.

Many are the Acts of this John of Gaunt, Recorded in our Annals and Histories: I will reckon up some of the most memorable.

Anno Domini 1373. 47 Edw. 3. John Duke of Lancaster went with a Puissant Army into France: He passed by Paris to Burgundy, and so through all France, no Man da∣ring to oppose him; but at last leaving France, he came into the Desart Mountains of Avernia, where there was neither Meat for Horse nor Man, and so lost most part of his Army through Famine and Pestilence; whence he came to Burdeaux scarce with forty Horse, whereas he entred France with thirty thousand Horse attending him. Walsingham.

Anno 1377. he was threatned to be killed by the Londoners, for some high Word spoken against their Bishop of London; they had burned his House, called The Savoy,

but that the Bishop interceded: Whereupon the Duke fled to Kensington, and hating the Londoners, caused the Mayor and other Officers to be put out, and new ones cho∣sen. Shortly after, Richard the Second, before his Magnificent Coronation at West∣minster, reconciled the Citizens and the Duke of Lancaster.

Anno 1376. the King sent again for John of Gaunt his Son to Govern the Kingdom, who was Governor thereof as long as the King lived

For the Constableship of Cheshire, formerly inherent in the Barony of Halton, and now Granted to John Duke of Lancaster by Richard the Second, take here the Char∣ter at large, as I have transcribed the same out of the Couchir-Book in the Dutch-Office at Grays-Inn, Tom. 1. fol. 49. a. Comitatus Cestriae, num. 25.

RICARDUS Dei Gratiâ Rex Angliae & Franciae, Dominus Hiberniae, & Princeps Cestriae, Omnibus ad quos praesentes Literae pervenerint Salutem. Sciatis, Quod Concessimus pro nobis & Haeredibus nostris Principibus Cestriae, quantùm in nobis est, Cha∣rissimo Avunculo nostro Johanni Duci Lancastriae Officium Constabulariae totius Principatus nostri Cestriae, & ipsum Johannem Constabularium ejusdem integri Principatus nostri prae∣fecimus: Habendum & Tenendum idem Officium sibi & Haeredibus Masculis de Corpore suo exeuntibus; & quòd ipse & Haeredes Masculi de Corpore suo exeuntes habeant, occupent, & exerceant praedictum Officium in locis quibuscunque, & ubicunque, infrà Principatum prae∣dictum, tàm in Dominicis & Bundis veteri Comitatui Cestriae, in Parliamento nostro apud Westmonasterium tento die Lunae proximè post Festum Exaltationis Sanctae Crucis, Anno Regni nostri vicesimo primo, annexis; (quae quidèm Dominia, Bundae, & Comitatus, tùnc facta fuerunt Principatus) quàm in veteri Comitatu praedicto: Habendum, Tenendum, & Occupandum Officium praedictum infrà integrum Principatum supradictum, adeò liberè & integrè, cùm omnibus Feodis, Servitiis, Jurisdictionibus, & aliis Proficuis quibuscunque, infrà & per totum integrum Principatum supradictum, proùt & sicùt Constabularius An∣gliae Officium suum in residuo Regni nostri Angliae possidet in praesenti. Eo non obstante, quòd aliquod hujusmodi Officium infrà Dominia & Bundas praedicta, veteri Comitatui Cestriae praedicto jàm annexa, antè haec tempora non extitit usitatum nèc consuetum: Ità quòd alia Feoda, Servitia, Jurisdictiones, & Proficua, de Ligeis nostris veteris Comitatus Cestriae praedicti, per ipsum Ducem & Haeredes Masculos de Corpore suo exeuntes, Constabularios Principatus praedicti, nullatenùs de caetero exigantur, seù quovismodo percipiantur in futu∣rum, quàm de jure in praedicto vetere Comitatu antè haec tempora erat consuetum; nec infrà Dominia & Bundas praedicta eidem veteri Comitatui (ut praedictum est) jàm anexa, quàm de jure percipi d••beant, & Officio Constabularii de recto pertineant. In cujus rei Testimo∣nium, has Literas nostras fieri fecimus Patentes, Sigillo Principatus nostri Cestriae Signatas. Teste meipso apud Castrum nostrum de Holt, octavo die Augusti, 22 Rich. 2. 1398.

But this Principality lasted not long; for that Statute was Repealed 1 Hen. 4. cap. 3.

Anno Domini 1398. the third day of February, 22 Rich. 2. [Obiit 1398] died John of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster, at the Bishop of Ely's Lodgings in Holborn juxtà London, and lies Ho∣nourably Buried at St. Paul's Church in London, near to Blanch his first Wife; So Stow: Anno Aetatis suae 60. See Wever's Funeral Monuments, pag. 365. Lib. C. fol. 82. r.

Feodarium Dominii de Halton in Comitatu Cestriae, nec non in Comitatu Lancastriae, de omnibus Hominibus qui tenent de Domino de Halton per Servitium Militare & per Relevium cum acciderit.

This Feodary seems to have been taken out of the Records of Halton about Edw. 2.

Such as are put over the Head, seem to be the Tenants at that time when this Feodary was Renewed, about Hen. 6.

	Dominus Willielmus Lovell.	l.	s.	d.
Longdendale.	Dominus Robertus de Longdendale tenet Longden∣dale, pro uno Feodo Militis, & per Relevium cùm acciderit—	05	00	00
	Willielmus Trussell Miles.
Henbury & Pexhull.	Oliverus de Burdeaux tenet Villam de Henbury & Pex∣hull de Haereditâte Matildis Uxoris suae, pro quartâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium cùm ac∣ciderit—	01	05	00
	Tho. Wever.
Over-Alderley.	Dominus Robertus de Monte alto tenet Villam de Alder∣ley pro quartâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium—	01	05	00
	Tho. Weever.
Clutton.	Idem Robertus tenet Villam de Clutton, pro sextâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium—	00	16	08
	Robertus Leycester.
Toft.	Rogerus de Toft tenet Villam de Toft pro vicesimâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium—	00	05	00
	Tho. Daniell, Radulfus Hulse, & Tho. Croxton.
Bexton, one half.	Johannes de Bexton tenet medietatem Villae de Bexton pro vicesimâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Re∣levium—	00	05	00
	Johannes Leycester.
Over-Tabley, one half.	Hugo Filius Adae de Tabley tenet medietatem Villae de Tabley pro vicesimâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium —	00	05	00
Knotsford-Booths.	Johannes de Legh tenet Villam de Knotsford-Booths, pro sextâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Rele∣vium—	00	16	08
	Johannes Dumvyll.
Limme, one half.	Gilbertus de Limme tenet medietatem Villae de Limme pro medietate unius Feodi Militis, & per Rele∣vium —	02	10	00

Norton, & Middleton in Aston juxtà Sut∣ton.	Prior de Norton tenet Norton pro octavâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & tenet Middleton pro quartâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium.—	01	17	06
	Johannes Savage Miles.
Great Barrow.	Dominus Hugo Spenser tenet Villam de Magnâ Barrow unà cùm dimidio Bovatae Terrae in Parvâ Barrow, pro medietate unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium—	02	10	00
Millington, one half.	Robertus de Mulinton tenet medietatem Villae de Mu∣linton pro octavâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium. —	00	12	06
	Johannes Savage Miles.
Clifton, now called Rock-Savage.	Domina Matildes de Chedull tenet Villam de Clifton pro medietate unius Feodi Militis, & per Rele∣vium.—	02	10	00* 41.1
Sutton.	Galfridus de Warburton tenet Villam de Sutton pro quintâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Rele∣vium.—	01	00	00
Aston juxta Sutton, & Endeley nùnc locus cognitus in Norton.	Ricardus de Aston tenet Villam de Aston & Endley pro quartâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Re∣levium.—	01	05	00
Listark.	Idem Ricardus tenet Villam de Listark pro quintâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium.—	01	00	00
	Willielmus Holford.
Lostock-Gralam, and half of Plumley.	Thomas de Vernon tenet Villam de Lostock cùm Parvâ Lostock, & medietatem de Plumley, pro medietate unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium. —	02	10	00
Cotton.	Henricus de Cotton tenet Villam de Cotton pro vicesimâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium.—	00	05	00
	Ricardus de Moreton.
Moreton-Rode.	Thomas le Vernon tenet Villam de Moreton-Rode pro octavâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium.	00	12	06
Hulmes-Chappell.	Henricus de Hulme tenet Villam de Hulme pro vicesimâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium.—	00	05	00
	Robertus le Grosvenour.
Half of Nether-Pe∣ver.	Willielmus de Mobberley tenet medietatem Villae de Pever inferiori, pro vicesimâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium.—	00	05	00
Nether-Whitley.	Dominus Robertus Touchet tenet Villam de Whitley-inferiori, pro tertiâ parte unius Feodi Militis [alii legunt, pro medietate], & per Relevium.—	01	13	04

	Dominus Rex.
Halton.	Dominus Comes Lincolniae tenet Villam de Halton pro medietate unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium.—	02	10	00
	Thomas Stanley Miles, & Henricus Litherland.
Kirkby, half.	Ricardus Samson tenet medietatem Villae de Kirkby in Waley pro quartâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium.—	01	05	00
	Johannes de Tildesley.
Barnston, half.	Hugo de Berneston tenet medietatem Villae de Berneston pro quartâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Re∣levium cùm acciderit.—	01	05	00
	Thomas de Pool, & Ricardus Cholmondeley.
Capenhurst.	Robertus Pool tenet Villam de Capenhurst; pro quartâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium—	01	05	00
	Thomas de Hulme, & Willielmus de Brunborough.
Traunmoll.	Ranulphus de Traunmoll tenet Villam de Traunmoll pro nonâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium.	00	11	00
	Galfridus de Warburton.
Budworth, Aston nigh Budworth, Over-Tab∣ley third part, Nether Tabley two Oxgangs of Land, Lythe nigh Chester, Comberbach one Oxgang.	Johannes Fitton tenet Villas de Budworth, & Aston juxtà Budworth, tertiam Partem de Tabley Superio∣ri, & duas Bovatas Terrae in Tabley-Inferiori, & Bovatam Terrae in quartâ parte de Comberbach, & unam Bovatam Terrae in manu Prioris de Norton in Budworth, & totam Terram de Lithe ultrà Dee juxtà Cestriam, pro uno Feodo Militis, & per Relevium.—	05	00	00
	Johannes Daniell de Daresbery.
Daresbery. Over-Walton.	Alanus de Norreys tenet Villam de Daresbery, & Villam de Walton-Superiori, pro medietate unius Feodi Mi∣litis. —	02	10	00
Weston. Kekwick. Nether-Walton, half. Over-Runcorn, third part Newton juxtà Cestr.	Dominus Hugo de Dutton tenet Villam de Weston, & medietatem de Walton-Inferiori, & tertiam partem Villae de Runcorne-Superiori, & sex Bovatas Terrae in Newton juxtà Cestriam, & Villam de Kekwick, pro medietate unius Feodi Militis, [alii legunt, pro uno Feodo] & per Relevium cùm acciderit.—	02	10	00
	Dominus Rex.
Over-Whitley.	Dominus Robertus de Holland tenet Villam de Whitley-Superiori, puo medietate unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium cùm acciderit.—	02	10	00
	Dominus Rex.
Over-Runcorne. Nether-Runcorne. Moore. Congleton.	Domina Comitissa tenet Villam de Runcorne-Superiori, & Inferiori, pro medietate unius Feodi Militis, & Moore pro sextâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & Vil∣lam de Congleton pro medietate unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium.—	05	16	08

	Gafridus Warburton Miles.
Hatton. Stretton. Sale. Nether-Walton, half.	Dominus Petrus de Warburton tenet Villam de Hatton pro decimâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & Villam de Stretton pro decimâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & Villam de Sale pro decimâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & medietatem de Walton-Inferiori pro decimâ parte unius Feodi Militis, & per Relevium cùm acciderit.	02	00	00

Feodarium Dominii de Wydenesse in Comitatu Lancastriae, ad Castrum de Halton pertinentis.

	Thomas Stanley Miles, Controwler.	l.	s.	d.
Knowsley. Hyton. Roby. Torbock.	Dominus Robertus de Lathom tenet de Domino de Wid∣neys, Maneria de Knowsley, Hyton, Roby, & Torbock, pro uno Feodo Militis, & dat de Relevio cùm acciderit.	05	00	00
	Johannes Daniell de Daresbery.
Sutton. Eccleston. Raynhull.	Gilbertus le Norreys junior tenet Villas de Sutton, & Eccleston, & Raynhull, pro uno Feodo Militis, & per Relevium.—	05	00	00
Little-Crosby.	Ricardus Molineaux de Sefton tenet Villam de Parvâ Crosby pro tribus Carucis Terrae undè decem Carucae faciunt unum Feodum Militis, & per Relevium.—	01	10	00
	Ricardus Halsale.
Halsale.	Gilbertus de Halsale tenet Villam de Halsale pro medie∣tate unius Carucae Terrae, & dat de Relevio.—	00	05	00
	Petrus Gerard.
Kirkby, half.	Dominus Ricardus de Burton tenet medietatem Villae de Kirkby pro unâ Carucâ Terrae, & per Relevium.—	00	10	00
	Thomas Bethum.
Kirkby, the other half.	Radulfus de Bethum tenet alteram medietatem Villae de Kirkby pro unâ Carucâ Terrae, & per Relevium.—	00	10	00
	Ricardus Ratcliffe.
Asteley.	Hugo de Tildesley tenet Villam de Asteley pro unâ Caru∣câ, & pro Relevio cùm acciderit.—	00	10	00
Appulton.	Villa de Appulton tenetur de Domino in Bondagio simili∣tèr cùm Membris suis, & tres Carucae ibidèm, undè X faciunt unum Feodum Militis, & per Relevium cùm acciderit.—	01	10	00
Craunton.	Abbas de Whalley tenet Villam de Craunton in purâ & perpetuâ Elemosynâ pro tribus Carucis Terrae, & per Relevium.—	01	10	00
Great-Wolneton. Little-Wolneton.	Prior Hospitalis Sancti Johannis tenet Villam de Magnâ Wolneton, & de Parvâ Wolneton, pro V Carucis Terra, & per Relevium.—	02	10	00

This Record following I transcribed out of an ancient Parchment Roll, in the Cu∣stody of Peter Danyell of Over-Tabley Esquire, July 20. 1647.

In Dorso. Placita Comitatus Cestriae apud Cestriam, coram Gilberto Domino de Talbot Justi∣ciario Domini Regis, ad Comitatum tentum ibidèm die Martis proximè post Festum Translationis Sancti Thomae Martyris, Anno Regni Regis Henrici quinti post Conquestum sexto. [ 1418]

JUratores diversorum Hundredorum aliàs coràm Gilberto Domino de Talbot Justiciario Do∣mini Regis Cestriae, scilicèt ad Comitatum tentum apud Cestriam die Martis proximè post Festum Sanctae Trinitatis, Anno Regni Domini Regis nùnc quinto, praesentaverunt quòd Tho∣mas de Nesse de Runcorne in Comitatu Cestriae Knave* 42.1, die Martis proximè post Festum Annunciationis Beatae Mariae Virginis, Anno Regni Domini Regis nùnc quinto, apud le New∣stede per insultum & insidias praecogitatas & praeordinatas in Thomam de Cester Canonicum de Norton, Magistrum ipsius Thomae, vi & armis insultum fecit, & ipsum vulneravit in diversis partibus Corporis cùm quodam Cultello, vocato A Dagger: Et ipsum ibidèm quasi mortuum dimisit, supponens quòd mortem habuisset de ictibus praedictis: Et ad hunc diem, scilicèt diem Martis proximè post Festum Translationis Sancti Thomae Martyris, venit prae∣dictus Thomas de Nesse in propriâ Personâ suâ allocutione instanti qualitèr se de Transgressi∣one praedictâ superius ei impositâ velit acquietare: Qui dicit, quòd Dominus Rex, ut Dux Lancastriae, est & fuit seisitus in Dominico suo ut de Feodo, de Manerio & Dominio de Hal∣ton cùm pertinentiis, tempore Transgressionis praedictae confectae: Et dicit, quòd idem Domi∣nus Rex habet, & omnes Progenitores sui, & omnes alii, quorum statum ipse habet in Ma∣nerio & Dominio praedicto, habuerunt & habere consueverunt (à tempore cujus contrarii me∣moria non existit) infrà Manerium & Dominium praedictum libertates subscriptas; videli∣cèt, visum Franci Plegii & quicquid ad illum visum pertinet, de omnibus Tenentibus & Re∣sidentibus infrà Manerium & Dominium praedictum: Tenendum tèr per Annum, videlicèt, semel intèr Festa Sancti Michaelis Archangeli & Sancti Martini in Hyeme, & iterùm inter Festa Sancti Hilarii & Annunciationis Beatae Mariae Virginis; & tertiò inter Festa Sanctae Trinitatis & Assumptionis Beatae Mariae Virginis: Et etiàm idem Dominus Rex habet, & omnes Progenitores sui, & omnes alii, quorum statum ipse habet in Manerio & Dominio praedicto, habuerunt & habere consueverunt (à tempore cujus contrarii memoria non existit) aliam liberam Curiam Baronis Annuatìm de Quindenâ in Quindenam apùd Halton, vel alibi infrà Manerium & Dominium praedictum ubicunquè voluerint, Tenendam per rationabilem praemonitionem indè faciendam: Et in eâdem liberâ Curiâ Baronis habere cognitiones Placi∣torum de Transgressionibus, Conventionibus, Debitis, vetito-namio ad Sectam Partis: Et si praesentatio facta fuerit per Ballivos ejusdem Regis, Progenitorum suorum, aut aliorum, quo∣rum statum ipse habet in Manerio & Dominio praedicto Manerii & Dominii praedicti liberae Curiae suae praedictae, quòd aliqui vel aliquis hominum Tenentium seu Residentium infrà Ma∣nerium & Dominium suum praedictum, fregerit vel fregerint Pacem, ceù Affraiam fecerit vel fecerint, quòd tùnc praedicti Ballivi per processum in eâdem Curiâ liberâ usitatum, à tempore cujus contrarii memoria non existit, per attachiamentum & districtionem facerent eosdem Transgressores praedictos venire ad respondendum in Curiâ praedictâ de Transgressi∣one praedictâ: vel si hujusmodi Transgressores, aut eorum aliquis, aliquo tempore praesentati in Curiâ Baronis praedictâ, Transgressionem praedictam gratis cognoscere voluerint vel vo∣luerit, aut si convicti fuerint aut aliquis convictus fuerit, idem Dominus Rex & omnes Progenitores sui, & omnes alii, quorum Statum ipse habet in Manerio & Dominio praedicto, habuerunt & habere consueverunt (à tempore cujus contrarii memoria non existit) potestatem faciendi Fines cùm ipsis pro Transgressionibus praedictis, & Fines & Amerciamenta praedi∣cta & punitionem praedictarum Transgressionum habere & levare per Ballivos suos praedi∣ctos; Pro quibus Transgressionibus si praedicti Transgressores indictati fuerint coràm Justi∣ciario Cestriae, vel coràm Vicecomite Cestershiriae, vel aliquibus aliis Ministris Domini Co∣mitis Cestriae, pro praedictis Finibus, Amerciamentis, seù punitione sic factis, fuerunt qui∣eti à tempore cujus contrarii memoria non existit: Et pro eo, quòd idem Thomas de Nesse

fuit Tenens praedicti Domini Regis infrà Manerium & Dominium praedictum tempore prae∣dictae Transgressionis factae, & quòd praedicta Transgressio facta fuit apud le Newstede, quae est infrà Manerium & Dominium praedictum, fuit in electione ejusdem Domini Regis & Mi∣nistrorum suorum Manerii & Dominii praedicti, ad puniendum Transgressionem praedictam virtute visus Franci Plegii sui, vel virtute alterius liberae Curiae suae praedictae, &c. Et Di∣cit, Quòd ad liberam Curiam Baronis ejusdem Regis, tentam apud Halton, coràm Willielmo de Stanley juniors, Milite, Seneschallo ibidèm, die Sabbati in septimanâ Paschae, Anno Regni Domini Regis nùnc quinto, praesentatus fuit per Ricardum del Wood Ballivùm Domini Regis Manerii & Dominii praedicti de Halton, quòd praedictus Thomas de Nesse tùnc tenens & resi∣dens infrà Manerium & Dominium praedictum, die Martis proximè post Festum Annuncia∣tionis Beatae Mariae Virginis, Anno Regni Domini Regis nùnc Secundo, fregit Pacem & in∣sultum fecit supèr Thomam de Chester Canonicum de Norton, & ipsum verberavit, vulnera∣vit, & malè tractavit vi & armis & contrà Pacem Domini Regis, &c. Et pro eo, quòd idem Thomas de Nesse praedicto die Sabbati praesens in eâdem Curiâ liberâ de Halton extiterit, dictum fuit eidem Thomae per praedictum Willielmum de Stanley Seneschallum ibidèm, quali∣tèr ipse de Transgressione praedictâ se voluerit acquietare, qui dixit quòd ipse Thomas de Nesse Transgressionem praedictam non potuit dedicere, sed posuit se in gratiam Domini, & fecit Finem pro Transgressione praedictâ pro quadraginta Denariis coràm praefato Seneschallo, se∣cundùm consuetudinem liberae Curiae Baronis praedictae; quae est eadem Transgressio in praedicto Indictamento specificata, &c. undè non intendit, quòd Dominus Rex ut Comes Cestriae aliàs eundem Thomam Nesse pro Transgressione praedictâ punire seù inquietare velit,—&c.

Et Matthaeus del Mere, qui sequitur pro Domino Rege, in propriâ Personâ suâ venit, & non potest dedicere materiam per praedictum Thomam de Nesse superiùs allegatam; nèc quìn Dominus Rex, & omnes Progenitores sui, & omnes alii, quorum Statum idem Domi∣nus Rex habet in Manerio & Dominio de Halton praedicto, habuerunt & habere consueverunt omnes libertates & consuetudines praedictas, à tempore cujus contrarii memoria hominum non existit, &c. Ideò consideratum est per Judicatores Comitatus praedicti, quòd praedictas Tho∣mas de Nesse de Indictamento praedicto sit quietus,—&c.

Hatton nigh Daresbury.

IN the Reign of Henry the Third, Geffrey Son of Adam de Dutton (Ancestor to Warburton of Arley) gives this Town, being of the Fee of the Barony of Halton, unto William Son of Hothy of Hatton, in these Words:—

SCiant praesentes & futuri,—Quòd ego Galfridus de Dutton, Filius Adae de Dutton, dedi—Willielmo Filio Huthi de Hatton, totam Villam de Hatton,—&c. Reddendo indè annuatìm unum Nisum, vel sex Denarios, ad Festum Sancti Jacobi Apostoli, pro omnibus Servitiis—Salvo tamèn forinseco Servitio Domini Regis, & Sectâ Curiae de Halton,—&c. Testibus Domino Hamone de Mascy, Domino Hugone de Dutton, Thomâ de Orreby, Gilberto de Limme,—&c.

The Original of this Deed remained in possession of William Merbury of Merbury nigh Great Budworth, Esquire, Anno Domini 1572. And an ancient Copy thereof in Parchment remains now, 1666. among the Evidences of Robert Pickering of Thel∣wall, Counsellor at Law.

In the Feodary of Halton under Edw. 2.—Dominus Petrus de Warburton tenet Villam de Hatton pro decimâ parte unius Feodi Militis.

SCiant praesentes & futuri, Quòd ego Adam de Hatton dedi—Alano Filio Ricardi de Hellesby in libero Maritagio cùm Beatrice Filiâ meâ, quandam Terram quae vocatur Quisty cùm omnibus pertinentiis—ac quintam partem Dominii Villae de Hatton, cùm quinta parte totius Bosci & Wasti ejusdem villae—Reddendo indè annuatìm—mihi & Hae∣redibus meis, de se & Haeredibus suis de dicta Beatrice Genitis in Domo Capitali de Hatton

manentibus, unam Sagittam ad Nativitatem Sancti Johannis Baptistae— Testibus Hugone de Dutton, Petro de Thorneton,—&c.

The Orignal penès Grimsdich of Grimsdich in Ne∣ther-Whitley, 1572. but taken by me out of Bostock's Book of Collections, fol. 62. n. be∣longing to Sir Simon Dewes Baronet, 1649.

This Town gave Name to the Family of the Hattons residing here: The Hattons of Quisty-Birches continuing until Peter Hatton Gentleman, with his two Sons Richard and Thomas, sold unto Robert Pickering Counsellor at Law, for the Sum of 1230 l. the Capital Messuage of Quisty-Birches, and five Messuages in Hatton: Dated 1 die Maii, 13 Car. 2. 1661. Mr. Pickering bought also six Messuages more in Hatton from Mr. Moores, 1653. and which Mr. Moores bought formerly part from Merbury of Mer∣bury nigh Comberbach, and part from Starkey of Stretton. One other Messuage in Hat∣ton Mr. Pickering bought from Merbury of Walton.

I find the Town of Hatton nigh Daresbury scattered into several Parcels, among the Daughters and Heirs of Adam Hatton Son of William de Hatton: For Anno Gratiae 1290. 18 Edw. 1. Simon de Aston & Agnes Uxor ejus, John Merbury and Cicely his Wife, Ran∣dle Newton and Isabel his Wife, do Covenant for them and their Heirs, to pay unto Thomas de Walton and his Heirs two Shillings yearly; for which Thomas and his Heirs are to do Suit of Court to Halton, to wit, that which Adam de Hatton formerly did for the Town of Hatton: Lib. C. fol. 4. a.

At this day, 1666. Robert Pickering of Thelwall aforesaid, Esquire, is Lord of the greatest Part of Hatton. The Remainder is now enjoyed by these Persons following, who have Free-hold Lands here.

• 1. Thomas Penkith.
• 2. Thomas Dunbabbin.
• 3. Richard Wood.
• 4. The Heirs of one Southerne.
• 5. John Dunbabbin.
• 6. Thomas Hatton.
• 7. Robert Webster, a little Parcel.
• 8. Grimsdich of Grimsdich.
• 9. Rafe Starkey of Newton Lawyer.
• 10. Richard Rutter of Moore two Tenements bought of Merbury of Walton.
• 11. Coppocke.
• 12. Another Hatton.
• 13. Peter Lightfoot.

Hull, vide Appulton.

Kekwick.

THis small Village of Kekwick is of the Ancient Fee of the Barons of Halton, but not mentioned in Doomsday-Book.

It belonged to the Duttons of Dutton very anciently, even from the Time of Henry the First, whose Heirs ever since enjoyed the same, until by the Award of Henry the Eighth it was allotted (among other Lands) to the Daughters and Co-heirs of Sir Thomas Dutton of Dutton, 26 Hen. 8. 1534. and came to the Part of Margaret one of the Daughters of Sir Thomas Dutton aforesaid, who married Thomas Aston of Aston nigh Sutton Esquire, and whose Heirs have ever since enjoyed the same, Sir Willoughby Aston Baronet being now possessed thereof entirely, 1666.

Nether-Knotsford.

WIlliam Fitz-Nigell Baron of Halton held Cunetesford under Hugh Lupus Earl of Chester, as we read in Doomsday-Book; and one Erchbrand then held it of William.

But whether that Knotsford, so held by this William, comprehended any more than that which is now a distinct Township of it self, called* 42.2 Knotsford-Booths, and is at this day in Halton-Fee, is some Quaere.

Certain it is, William de Tabley, Lord of Over-Tabley, was also Lord of both Knots∣fords, Nether-Knotsford and Over-Knotsford, in the Reign of King Edward the First; as may appear by this following Charter, wherein he Institutes Burgesses in both Knotsfords; the Original whereof is in my Possession. Q. num. 11.

SCiant praesentes & futuri, Quòd ego Willielmus Dominus de Tabley (that is, Over-Tabley) dedi, concessi, & hâc praesenti Chartâ meâ confirmavi omnibus & singulis Burgensibus meis de Knotsford Burgagia libera, unumquodquè infrà se continens duas Selio∣nes & dimidium Terrae: Habendum & Tenendum de me & Haeredibus meis vel Assignatis, sibi & Haeredibus suis, vel Assignatis eorum, liberè, quietè, benè, & in pace, & jure Haere∣ditario in perpetuùm; cùm Housbold & Haybold Burgensibus de Knotsford in nemore de Knotsford, & in Turbarià; Et cùm Housbold & Haybold Burgensibus de Boys [id est, Knots∣ford-Booths, sive Over-Knotsford] in nemore de Boys, & Turbariam & Communem Pastu∣ram utrique eorum de Boys & Knotsford omnibus animalibus suis, infrà metas de Knotsford & metas de Boys, quantum praefata Terra poterit sustinere in Hyeme, & liberam Communam in Morâ de Cressewalleclef (sicut medietas aquae praecucurrit) ad metendum & ad falcandum, salvâ venditione ejusdem Herbagii: Reddendo indè annuatìm mihi & Haeredibus meis vel Assignatis, de quolibet Burgagio XII Denarios, ad duos Anni terminos, videlicèt, sex De∣narios ad Festum Sancti Johannis Baptistae, & sex Denarios ad Festum Sancti Martini in Hyeme: Et unusquisque eorum tertium meliorem Porcum nomine Pannagii pro Porcis suis nutritis infrà metas Willielmi, qui pingues sunt de Pesonâ ejusdem Willielmi: Et quòd dicti Burgenses molant blada sua ad molendinum meum de Knotsford pro XX grano: Et si con∣tigerit, quòd molendinarius aliquod damnum Sutoribus ad molendinum fecerit, per Vicinos suos secundùm quantitatem delicti in Curiâ emendabit: Et quicunque dictorum Burgensium panem desiderat obtinere in Furno pistum infrà quatuor portas Villae, pro quoquo Bushell unum Obolum Furnario meo praestabit; & quòd nullus eorum infrà quatuor portas Villae nullum Furnum elevabit: Et quòd dicti Burgenses mei faciant Sectam ad Curiam meam magnam bis in Anno, videlicèt, ad proximam Curiam pòst Pascha, & ad proximam Curiam post Fe∣stum Michaelis: Et quòd Portimotus teneatur in eodem Burgo de tribus Septimanis in tres Septimanas: Et quòd omnia Placita de Transgressionibus, Attachiamentis, Conventionibus fractis placitantur in eâdem Curiâ: Et quicunque dictorum Burgensium pro aliquo forisfacto in misericordia ceciderit, non det nisi XII Denarios antè Judicium; & post Judicium, rationabilem misericordiam secundùm quantitatem delicti, nisì id forisfactum ad Gladium pertineat: Et quòd dicti Burgenses mei intèr se idoneum Ballivum eligant & habeant, qui in Officio suo mihi & Burgensibus meis Sacramenta observanda fidelitèr praestabit: Et quòd dicti Burgenses de Knotsford & de Boys illam Terram vendere, quandocunquà & cuicunquè, seù invadiare possint, salvo viro Religioso & Domino Capitali ejusdem Feodi. Et ego verò praefatus Willielmus, & Haeredes mei vel Assignati, praedictis Burgensibus meis de Knotsford omnia Burgagia sua, & Assignatis eorum, pro omnibus Servitiis Secularibus, Exactionibus, Consuetudinibus, & Demandis, Salvâ Summonitione de Culward, contrà omnes homines & foeminas Warrantizabimus. In hujus rei Testimonium praesentem Chartam Sigilli mei muni∣mine roboravi. Hiis Testibus, Domino Ricardo de Massy, Willielmo de Modburlegh, Willi∣elmo de Manwaring, Rogero de Toft, Adâ de Tabley, at multis aliis.

This Deed aforesaid was made about the Year 1292. For this William de Tabley

obtained the King's Charter for a Saturday-Market Weekly here at Nether-Knotsford, which yet continueth; and also for a Fair to be kept here Yearly in Vigiliâ, & in Die, & in Crastino Apostolorum Petri & Pauli, id est, June 28, 29, & 30. Dated at Walsing∣ham, 3 die Augusti, 20 Edw. 1. Which Charter was also Confirmed to William his Son and Heir, and another Fair Granted to be kept here Yearly in Vigiliá, & in Die, & in Crastino Apostolorum Simonis & Judae, id est, October 27, 28, & 29. Dated at Hartford, 14 die Februarii, 6 Edw. 3. 1332. Lib. C. fol. 223. a. Ex Rotulo Chartarum de Anno 6 Edw. 3. in Turre Londinensi.

How the Royalty of Nether-Knotsford was shared between Sir Richard Massy of Tatton, and the aforesaid William de Tabley, in the Reign of Edward the First, will more fully appear by these following Deeds, made about 22 Edw. 1. 1294. the Ori∣ginals whereof now remain in possession of the Earl of Bridgewater, 1667.

CUM Willielmus de Tabley tenuit totam Villam de Knotsford [He meaneth Nether-Knotsford] de Ricardo de Massy per Servitium* 44.1 Militare, ac Dominus noster Ed∣wardus Rex Angliae concesserat per Chartam suam eidem Willielmo Mercatum & Feriam certis diebus in eâdem Villâ habenda; Idem Willielmus postmodo Feoffavit plures Burgenses in eâdem Villâ de Burgagiis & certis Terris eisdem annexis; Tenendum de eodem & Haeredi∣bus suis immediatè: Ricardus de Massy Dominus Capitalis, clamans & Asserens hoc Feoffa∣mentum fore ad damnum & exhaeredationem sui & suorum manifestam, secundùm virtutem Statuti Domini nostri Edwardi de Terris & Tenementis alienatis, Tenendis de Capitalibus Dominis Feodi immediatè: Ità convenit amicabilitèr intèr eosdem, videlicèt, quòd praedictus Willielmus dedit & concessit dicto Ricardo & Haeredibus suis vel assignatis, salvis Capitali∣bus Dominis suis, medietatem omnium exituum & cujuslibet Commodi de praedicto Mercato, Curiâ, & Feriâ ejusdem Villae provenientium: Concessit etiàm, quod medietas Terrarum & Tenementorum ejusdem Villae, quae tenentur, & in futuro debeant teneri, in Burgagiis cùm Terris eisdem annexis, Teneantur de praedicto Ricardo immediatè per Servitia & Con∣suetudines indè ab antiquo Debita & Consueta; Salvo tamèn eidem Willielmo, & Haeredibus suis vel Assignatis, redditu pro eisdem Terris & Tenementis; videlicèt, pro quolibet Burga∣gio & Terrâ eidem annexâ, duodecem Denariis per Annum, & Pannagio, cùm Sectá ad molendinum suum secundùm quod vicini ejusdem Villae faciunt: PRO quâ quidèm Concessi∣one & Donatione praedictus Ricardus de Massy concessit dicto Willielmo de Tabley, & Haeredi∣bus suis vel Assignatis, quòd licitè possent dare & vendere aliam medietatem Terrarum & Tenementorum quae tenentur, vel quae in futuro debeant teneri, in Burgagiis & Terris eis∣dem annexis in praedictâ Villâ, & tenendum de eodem Willielmo & Haeredibus suis immedi∣atè; Salvis tamèn eidem Ricardo, & Haeredibus suis vel Assignatis, Servitiis & Consuetu∣dinibus indè ab antiquo Debitis & Consuetis: Concessit etiàm praedictus Ricardus, quòd prae∣dictus Willielmus & Haeredes sui vel Assignati, quieti sint in perpetuum de Servitiis & Con∣suetudinibus, quae ab antiquo debentur de Terris & Tenementis, quae tenentur, vel in futuro debeant teneri, in eâdem Villâ de praedicto Ricardo in Burgagiis & Terris eisdem annexis secun∣dùm Concessionem dicti Willielmi. In cujus rei Testimonium alter alterius scripto in medio inciso Sigillum suum apposuit. Hiis Testibus, Willielmo de Modburleg, Adâ de Tabley, Thoma de Legh, Rogero de Toft, Willielmo del Mere, Johanne de Legh, Willielmo de Meyn∣waring, Thoma Clerico, & aliis.

SCiant praesentes & futuri, Quòd ego Willielmus de Tabley, Dominus de Knotsford, dedi, concessi, & hac praesenti Charta mea confirmavi Ricardo de Massy Militi Domino meo, & Isabellae Uxori ejus, omnes Terras, Redditus, Homagia, Consuetudines, & Servitia sub∣scripta in Villa de Knotsford; videlicèt, de Burgagio quod Thomas Pratin tenet; & Burga∣gio quod Willielmus Filius Amelie tenet; & Burgagio quod Alexander Mucheman tenet; & Burgagio quod Elias Rotarius tenet; & Burgagio quod Radulfus Molendinarius tenet; & Burgagio quod Thomas Filius Jordani tenet; & illis duobus Burgagiis quae Ricardus Filius Adae Brodfot tenet; & de duobus Burgagiis quae Robertus Pistor tenet; & de Burgagio quod Hugo le Harper tenet; & de uno Crofto quod Alexander Mucheman tenet; & de duobus Bur∣gagiis quae Magister Rogerus de Tablegh tenet; & de duobus Burgagiis quae Nicolaa Filia

Adami de Toft tenet; & duobus Burgagiis quae Rogerus Mekehove tenet; & de unâ Domo cùm Curtilagio, quam Margeria del Broke tenet ad terminum; & de uno Burgagio quod Ri∣cardus le Harper quondàm tenuit; & de Burgagio quod Robertus Pese tenuit ad terminum de Adamo Hurne. Habendum & tenendum praedictis Ricardo & Isabellae, & Haeredibus vel Assignatis ipsius Ricardi, liberè, quietè, benè, & pacificè, cùm omnibus Libertatibus, Commo∣ditatibus, Eysiamentis, Eschaetis, praedictis Terris, Redditibus, Homagiis, Consuetudinibus, Servitiis quoquo modo spectantibus. Faciendo indè ipse Ricardus & Isabella, & Haeredes vel Assignati ipsius Ricardi, pro me & Haeredibus vel Assignatis meis, unam Sectam per afforci∣amentum* 45.1 ad Curiam Domini Hamonis de Massy de Dunham per rationabilem Summonitio∣nem, & per facturam Hayae & Hiri† 45.2 Communis, quae ego & Antecessores mei facere Consuevimus cùm Feodo de Tatton Domino de Dunham pro Villâ de Knotsford, pro omni Servitio, Consuetudine, exactione quâcunque, & demandâ: Et ego praedictus Willielmus & Haeredes mei omnes Terras, Redditus, Homagia, Consuetudines, & Servitia cùm suis perti∣nentiis, sicùt praedictum est, praedictis Ricardo & Isabellae, & Haeredibus vel Assignatis ipsius Ricardi, contrà omnes Homines & Faeminas Warrantizabimus, Acquietabimus, & in omni∣bus defendemus per praedictum Servitium in perpetuùm. In cujus rei Testimonium huic prae∣senti Scripto Sigillum meum apposui. Hiis Testibus, Hugone de Venables, Radulfo de Vernon Militibus, Willielmo de Modburlegh, Willielmo de Meynwaring, Thomâ de Legh, Johanne de Legh, Willielmo de Marâ, Adamo de Tabley, Eytropo de Mulinton, Roberto Parsonâ medi∣etatis Ecclesiae de Limme, & aliis.

So that by these Deeds it should seem that William de Tabley held Nether-Knotsford of Massy of Tatton immediately, but mediately from the Ancient Barons of Dunham-Massy: And upon the Agreement before at large set down, Sir Richard Massy of Tatton was to have one Moiety of the Mannor of Nether-Knotsford, and half of the Profits of the Market, Fair, and Court; and William of Tabley the other half.

This William de Tabley writ himself Dominus de Knotsford, and sometimes Dominus de Tabley, which is to be understood of Over-Tabley. He married Alice Daughter of William de Mobburley the Elder: She was Widow 27 Edw. 1. 1299. and then lived at her Principal Mansion-house at Nether-Knotsford, F. num. 1, 2. For William her late Husband had not long before granted away the third Part of Over-Tabley (which was all the Lands in Over-Tabley wherewith he stood then possessed) unto Sir John Grey, Son of Sir Reginald Grey, 22 Edw. 1. And Sir John Grey granted all his Lands in Over-Tabley, which he had of the Grant of William de Tabley, unto Roger de Leycester Lord of Nether-Tabley, together with all the Lands, Rents, and Services which Alice the Widow of William de Tabley then held in Dower, de praedictis Tenementis in praedictâ Villâ de Over-Tabley, to revert to the said Roger Leycester after her death. This was about Anno Domini 1298. F. num. 1.

This William de Tabley, who died about 1297. 26 Edw. 1. had Issue William de Tab∣ley, eldest Son; and John de Tabley, another Son: Lib. C. fol. 222. m. And also two Daughters; Agnes married William de Torperley, by whom she had Issue Margaret; and Alice, another Daughter of William de Tabley.

{fleur-de-lys} These Notes following are the Notes of John Halsey of Lincolns-Inn, Esquire, extracted out of the Evidences of the Earl of Bridgewater, 1667.

William de Tabley, Lord of Nether-Knotsford, Son and Heir of the aforesaid William, had a Charter from Edward the Black Prince, dated 4 die Aprilis, 11 Edw. 3. 1337. to excuse him all his Life from being put on any Jury, and from being Mayor, Sheriff, Coroner, or other Officer, against his will. The Original now remains among the Evidences of the Earl of Bridgewater, 1667. His Wife was named Aunora: She was Widow 14 Edw. 3. and had Issue William de Tabley, under Age, and Ward to Hugh Massy of Tatton, 16 Edw. 3. and died 26 Edw. 3. at the Age of 16 Years, leaving his four Sisters to be his Heirs, Maud, Emme, Marion, and Agnes.

1. Maud married Richard de Cotton. She and her Children were all dead 45 Edw. 3. and her Part fell to the other Sisters.

2. Emme, the second Sister, married Walter Spicer of Chester. She was dead before 26 Edw. 3. and Richard Spicer their Son was found Heir.

3. Marion, or Mary, (for some Deeds call her by the one Name, and some by the other) married Roger Son of William de Minshull; who, with her Husband, Leased a fourth Part of the Mannor of Knotsford to Thomas Stathum for forty Years, 38 Edw. 3. Afterwards she married Thomas Hyde of Warford, who, with the said Thomas her second Husband, Demised to David Pinke her sixth Part of the Mannor of Nether-Knotsford, which came to her by the death of Agnes her Sister; Rent per Annum 3 l. 6 s. 8 d. 46 Edw. 3.

4. Agnes, the fourth Sister and Co-heir, married Robert Son of William de Downes, living 27 Edw. 3. After she married Warin de Croxton, but left no Issue.

So that all William of Tabley's Moyety of Nether-Knotsford was now in Spicer and Marion, who scattered the same into certain Parcels: For Richard Son of Walter Spi∣cer Granted to Sir John Massy of Tatton, 45 Edw. 3. all his sixth Part of Nether-Knots∣ford, which descended to him by the Decease of Agnes Wife of Warin de Croxton; which Sir John sold to one John Shard, and others, 50 Edw. 3. and had it Re-granted back to him the said Sir John, 3 Rich. 2. So that Sir John Massy had now the sixth Part of William de Tabley's Moyety, the other Moyety being his own by Descent.

Sir Hugh Hulse had two fourth Parts Granted to him by John Stathum Nephew to Thomas Stathum his Uncle, 1 Hen. 4. and which the said Thomas Stathum bought from Marion de Tabley and Richard Spicer. And Hugh de Knotsford also Releaseth to Sir Hugh Hulse, 1 Hen. 4. his Right in a third Part of a fourth Part, which the said Hugh had from David Pinke, who had it from Spicer.

Marion, or Mary de Tabley, the Widow of Thomas Hyde, 19 Rich. 2. grants to Hugh de Toft Chaplain, Dominium de Knotsford; who re-grants the same to Mary for Life, the Remainder to Thomas Haselford and Joan his Wife, Daughter of the said Mary, and to the Heirs of their Bodies.

And in Anno 21 Rich. 2. this Mary Covenants with Cicely Daughter of the last Wil∣liam de Mobberley, to settle all she had in possession in Nether-Knotsford by Fine, first to her self, and the Heirs of her Body; The Remainder to Sir Hugh Hulse and Mar∣gery his Wife, in Tail;—The Remainder to Thomas Hulse, their Son, in Tail;—And so to Edmund, and so to Andrew, Brothers of the said Thomas;—And so to Elinour, and so to Elizabeth, Sisters of the said Thomas, in Tail;—The Remainder to the said Cicely and her Heirs: And to cause Thomas Haselford to grant the Marriage of Eliza∣beth his Daughter and Heir to the said Cicely. And after, on Tuesday post Clausum Pa∣schae, 21 Rich. 2. the said Mary Levied a Fine of eight Marks Rent in Knotsford, of the fourth Part of the Mannor of Knotsford, of the fourth Part of the Market, Fair, Toll, and Stallage of Nether-Knotsford, to John Brunstath Parson of Mobberley, and to Thomas Swetenham of Mobberley; who re-grant the same to Mary, as before,—&c. and to Sir Hugh Hulse,—&c. as in the former Covenant: And afterward Mary died in the same Year, 21 Rich. 2. her Daughter Joan, the Wife of Thomas Haselford, being dead before her.

The said Cicely, one of the Daughters of the last William de Mobberley, and Sister and Co-heir of Sir Raufe Mobberley of Mobberley, and Widow to John Dumbill of Mob∣berley, makes Sir John Massy of Tatton her Attorney to receive all Toll, and other Profits in Knotsford, belonging to her jure Haereditatis post decessum Mariae de Tabley tùnc nupèr defunctae: Which Cicely died 5 Hen. 4. and whose Daughter Margery married Sir Hugh Hulse. She had also a Daughter called Ellen, who (as I conceive) died with∣out Issue.

This Sir Hugh Hulse having now got in all Titles to the five Parts in six to be divi∣ded of William de Tabley's Moyety, and having the Marriage and Custody of Elizabeth Daughter and Heir of Thomas Hasselford granted unto him, he married the said Eliza∣beth to David Hulse, Son of John Hulse of Norbury in Cheshire: To which David, Sir Hugh Hulse gave all his Lands in Knotsford, 3 Hen. 5. This Right continued in the Heirs of the said David Hulse, until Hugh de Hulse sold the same unto Richard Brereton of Tatton Esquire, 32 Elizabethae, 1590. And so the whole Royalty of Nether-Knots∣ford was invested in the Lords of Tatton. Which Richard setled all his Estate, having no Issue, on Sir Thomas Egerton Lord Chancellor of England, from whom the Earls of Bridgewater.

Su far out of the Notes sent me by John Halsey Esquire.

{fleur-de-lys} The Earl of Bridgewater then is now Lord of Nether-Knotsford, 1667. wherein are above forty Charterers at this day.

I have seen the Copy of a Deed in a Book of Collections by John Booth of Twam∣low in Cheshire, noted Lib. H. pag. 137. f. taken out of an ancient Parchment Roll penès Davenport of Henbury; wherein John Hall Mayor of Knotsford is Subscribed as Witness, about the later end of Edward the First, in these Words:—

SCiant—Quòd ego Robertus Filius Johannis Hurne dedi—Yockin* 45.3 de Duiton duo Burgagia, quae habui ex dono Patris mei, in Villâ de Knotsford.—Reddendo indè an∣nuatìm Domino Capitali Villae de Knotsford, qui pro tempore fuerit, octodecem Denarios. —Testibus Domino Rogero de Venables Rectore Ecclesiae de Rosthorne, Rogero de Toft, Jo∣hanne de Bexton, Johanne de Aulâ tùnc Majore Villae de Knotsford, Thomâ Snowball, Eliâ Rotario, Johanne Coco,—&c.

I have also seen an Original Deed, noted D. num. 9. then in the possession of George Wilson of Nether-Knotsford, June 2. 1650. wherein Adam Putill grants unto John Cooke, totam illam medietatem illius Burgagii quòd habui juxtà Burgagium Johannis Gleyve, de quo quidèm Burgagio ego dictus Adam feoffavi Reginaldum Pistorem in aliâ medietate illius Burgagii, in Villâ de Knotsford—Reddendo Aliciae Generosae Dominae annuatìm duodecem Denarios,—&c. Et post obitum ejusdem Aliciae, duodecem Denarios Domino Villae de Knots∣ford,—&c. Hiis Testibus, Johanne de Legh, Rogero de Toft, Johanne de Aulâ tùnc Majore de Knotsford, Elyâ Rotario, Thomâ Lilicock, Thomâ Snowball, Ricardo Kylting, Rogero Filio Jordani, & aliis. Lib. C. fol. 221. b.

{fleur-de-lys} Nether-Knotsford comprehendeth the

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Cross-Town, and hath in it an ancient Paro∣chial Chappel, a Daughter of the Mother-Church of Rosthorne, situated in the very Con∣fines of Nether-Knotsford, towards the Demain of Booths; and hath these subjacent Villages belonging thereunto.—

	The Mize.
	l.	s.	d.
Nether-Knotsford.	00	13	04
Over-Knotsford cùm Norbury-Booths	00	06	08
Bexton	00	02	09
Toft	00	08	00
Owlarton	00	08	00
	01	18	09

On the West side of the Steeple is Legh of Booths Coat Quartered with another, as is ex∣pressed in the Margin; and a little above that,

under the Window where the Bells hang, is written on the Stone, ROBERT WEB∣STER AND MAUD HIS WIFE: WILLIAM HEFELD AND MARGERY HIS WIFE. These probably were Benefactors to the Building of that Steeple with Stone, which was in the Reign of Henry the Eighth.

There is also a Chappel of Ease situated within the Lower Town of Knotsford, with a School-house adjoyning. Sir John Legh of Booths purchased from the King certain Lands in Nether-Knotsford, Sudlow, and Over-Knotsford, 3 Edw. 6. which in old time were given for the finding of a sufficient School-master at Nether-Knotsford, and also for finding of a Priest to say Service in the said Chappel; which Lands came to the King by the Statute of Dissolution of Chantries and Abbies.

Now the said Sir John Legh was bound in a Recognisance of 200 Marks to the King, to pay out of those Lands 5 l. 6 s. 8 d. yearly, to the Maintenance of a School-master, and to suffer the said Chappel to stand for Administration of the Communion: Dated 3 Edw. 6. And which Moneys are yearly paid by his Heirs at this day.

An ancient Copy of which Recognizance remains with me, 1667.

Over-Knotsford, alias Knotsford-Booths.

OVer-Knotsford is belonging to the ancient Fee of the Barons of Halton.

In the Feodary of Halton under Edward the Second, it is said—Johannes de Legh tenet Knotsford-Booths pro sextâ parte unius Feodi Militis.

This Town of Knotsford-Booths, with Norbury-Booths, William de Tabley Leased to Sir John Orreby, for the Life of Sir John, 11 Edw. 1.

Sir John Orrely selleth his Title herein to John Legh and Ellen his Wife; and after∣wards William de Tabley releaseth to John Legh, and his Heirs, all his Right in Knots∣ford-Booths and Norbury-Booths, die Martis proximè ante Festum Sancti Bartholomaei Apo∣stoli, 28 Edw. 1. 1300. Lib. C. fol. 219. b. c. d. e. g.

The Heirs of this John Legh have ever since enjoyed the same to this day, 1667. Peter Legh of Booths Esquire being now Lord thereof, and under Age.

There are now about twelve small Charterers in Knotsford-Booths.

* 45.4This John Legh, who Purchased Knotsford-Booths cùm Norbury-Booths from William de Tabley, was younger Son of William Venables de Bradwell, by Agnes his second Wife, Daughter and Heir of Richard Legh of High-Legh de West-Hall, Lord of the Moiety of High-Legh, and Widow of Richard de Limme.

This John, being brought up with his Mother in High-Legh, was sir-named de Legh from the Place of his Residence, as was the manner of those Ages; which Sir-name his Posterity retained, and bear the Coat of Arms of Venables, with the distinction of a Bend Gules, even to this day.

William Venables, Father of this John de Legh, was younger Brother to Sir Hugh Ve∣nables of Kinderton; which William gave to John de Legh his Son Lands in Rosthorn; which William, Son of William Venables of Bradwell, and Half-Brother of this John, released unto him, 13 Edw. 2. 1319. Which Lands in Rosthorn, Legh of Booths enjoy∣eth at this day, 1667.

This John de Legh, the first Legh of Booths, gave to Robert Legh his younger Son a Tenement in High-Legh, which Sir John Legh (elder Brother of Robert) confirmed to the said Robert, 1336. 10 Edw. 3. which Tenement continued in the possession of the Leghs of Adlington, until Sir Vrian Legh of Adlington not very long since sold the same to John Legh of Aldford, who sold it to Richard Legh of Swineyard in High-Legh, his Brother, 45 Elizabethae, 1602. And from this Robert, the Leghs of Adlington are Originally descended: Of which see more in High-Legh.

Ellen, the Widow of this first John Legh, purchased a Weekly Market on the Wednesday, and a Fair to be kept yearly at Knotsford-Booths on Tuesday and Wednesday in Whitson-week, under the Seal of the Exchequer at Chester: Dated 18 die Maii, 9 Edw. 3. Which Fair is at this day kept accordingly; but the Market vanished long ago. Lib. C. fol. 219. l.

{fleur-de-lys} Here should follow the Descent of Legh of Booths: But because I was denied the Perusal of the Evidences, by Robert Venables Esquire, younger Son of Peter Venables of Kinderton Esquire, who hath married the Widow of John Legh late of Booths deceased, I must omit the same; and therefore let Poste∣rity blame him for it, and not me.

Lachford.

WIlliam Son of Samson released Domino suo Hugoni de Boydell, pro defectu Servitii sui retrò, Lachford cùm omnibus pertinentiis: Pro hâc donatione Hugo dedit Valentiam quatuor Marcarum: Testibus Radulfo de Manwaring tùnc Justiciario Cestriae, &c. tempore Ricardi Primi: Lib. C. fol. 286. t. The Original penès Thomas Merbury de Mer∣bury Armigerum, 1666. This was at the same time, and before the same Witnesses, when he Released Gropenhale also. Vide Gropenhale.

NOverint Universi,—Anno Domini 1305. 32 Edw. 1. Intèr Dominum Johannem de Boydell Militem ex parte unâ, & Davidem Filium & Haeredem Patricii de Barton ex altera; super Partitione Vastorum de Lachford—Praedictus David cognovit, quòd tres partes omnimodi soli in eadem Villa sint jus & Haereditas ipsius Johannis—& quarta pars est Haereditas ipsius Davidis: Lib. C. fol. 285. c. The Original hereof also in possession of the said Mr. Merbury.

Sir John Daniell and Joan his Wife Purchased to them and their Heirs, from Edward stiled The Black Prince, then Earl of Chester, to keep two Fairs in Lachford yearly; one upon the fifth and sixth days of May, and the other upon the seventeenth and eighteenth days of October; and also to have two Market-days Weekly, every Wed∣nesday and Friday, nisi sint ad nocumenta Vicinorum Mercatorum: Datum apud Cestriam, 3 die Martii, 41 Edw. 3. under the Seal of the Exchequer. The Original penès Merbu∣ry de Merbury. Lib. C. fol. 283. f.

Anno 26 Edw. 3. Partition was made of the Inheritance of William Boydell, in Che∣shire and Wales, between Sir John Danyell of Gropenhale and Joan his Wife on the one Part, and Howel ap Owen Voil on the other Part. Lib. C. fol. 282. q.

William the Son of Howell called himself by the Name of Boydell, and had to Wife Cicely Sister of William Belew, by whom he had Issue Thomas Boydell: She was Widow 8 Hen. 4. for William Boydell her Husband died 16 Rich. 2. 1392. Lib. C. fol. 286. v. & 281. g.

Thomas Boydell had Issue Thomas, who died without Issue; also Margaret, married to Hugh Reddish; and Isabel, married to John Alburgham, afterwards to Nicolas de Lang∣ton: Which Margaret and Isabell divide the Inheritance of Thomas Boydell their Fa∣ther, 5 Hen. 5. 1416. Lib. C. fol. 282. l. And among other Lands, these of Lachford were divided between them.

The Part belonging to Reddish came to William Merbury of Merbury Esq in Right of Maud his Wife, Daughter and Heir of Thomas Reddish of Caterich in Gropenhale: They were married 2 & 3 Philip and Mary, 1556. whose Heir is now possessed of one Moie∣ty of Lachford, 1666.

The Part belonging to Alburgham descended to two Daughters and Heirs, 3 Hen. 7. Constance, Daughter of Gilbert Alburgham, married Henry Byrom of Byrom in Lanca∣shire; Isabell, the other Daughter, married James Holt of Griselhurst in Lancashire.

Francis Holt, and Thomas his Son, sell all their Part of Lachford unto Thomas Starkey of Stretton Esquire, 25 Elizabethae. Starkey sells it to Thomas Brooke of Norton Esquire,

43 Eliz. and Thomas Brooks of Norton sells it to Thomas Ireland of Beusy nigh Warring∣ton, 43 Elizabethae. He was afterwards Sir Thomas Ireland.

Thomas Ireland, Son of Sir Thomas, with other Brothers and Feoffees, sell their Lands in Lachford unto Thomas Blackborn, 5 Car. 1. whose Son Thomas Blackborn of Lachford now enjoyeth the same, 1666.

* 45.5Byrom's Part in Lachford was sold to the Ancestors of these Free-holders in Lachford following.

Freeholders in Lachford, Anno Domini 1666.

• 1. John Longshall.
• 2. Richard Hall.
• 3. Widow Middlehurst pays 1 d. Chief to Blackborn.
• 4. Peter Barker, one Acre, formerly Part of Widow Middlehurts.
• 5. Peter Hall.
• 6. Arnold Middlehurst.
• 7. William Morris of Gropenhale.
• 8. Legh of Lyme, one Tenement.
• 9. Widow Pierson.
• 10. Widow Hatton, now Twambroke.

Byrom of Lancashire retains yet the Advowson of the Church of Gropenhale.

Legh juxta Barterton, vulgo Little-Legh.

THe Township of Little-Legh was held by William Fitz-Nigell Baron of Halton, in the Time of the Conqueror, as appears by Doomsday-Book.

* 45.6Simon Fitz-Osbern, being possessed of this Village about the Reign of King John, Grants the same unto Hugh Dutton, Son of Hugh Dutton of Dutton, and to his Heirs; scilicèt, totam Villam de Leiâ in Feu-firma: Reddendo annuatìm duas Marcas Argenti ad Festum Sancti Martini: Lib. C. fol. 154. f. Which Rent is paid by the Heirs of Dutton at this day, 1666. as to the Mannor of Harden-Castle.

Roger Constable of Cheshire, and Baron of Halton, acquitteth Hugh Dutton of Dut∣ton de Judice de Leghâ in Hundredo meo de Halton; (id est) Of the Judger of Legh in his Hundred of Halton, about Anno Domini 1200. Lib. C. fol. 154. g.

To be Judger of a Town, was to serve at the Lord's Court on the Jury for such a Town; whereof Dutton was discharged for Little-Legh by this Deed.

The Hamlet of Clatterwig in Little-Legh was Purchased by Sir Thomas Dutton of Dutton, from Hugh de Clatterwig, in the Reign of Henry the Third: Hiis Testibus, Do∣mino Galfrido de Dutton tùnc Seneschallo, Domino Galfrido de Budworth Filio Adae de Dut∣ton, Domino Hugone Priore de Norton, Ricardo de Astonâ, Rogero de Toft,—&c. Lib. C. fol. 156. t.

This Township hath ever since remained to the Heirs of Dutton, even to this day, 1666. and is 25 l. 18 s. 00 d. of an old Rent.

Charterers in Little-Legh, 1666.

• 1. Sir Gilbert Ireland of Hut in Lancashire, one Cottage, in possession of Thomas Clough.
• 2. William Touchet of Nether-Whitley Esquire, one Tenement in Lease.
• 3. William Bentley of Northwich, Physician, two Crofts, but no House.
• 4. Joseph Basnet of Legh, formerly part of Dr. Bentley's.
• 5. Mr. Huxley, one Tenement, in possession of Joseph Basnet.
• 6. John Barker of Legh, lately bought of Mr. Merbury of Merbury.
• ...

• 7. Richard Worrall of Legh.
• 8. John Eaton of Woolley.
• 9. Mrs. Anne Moseley of Howes-end, one Cottage, in Possession of one Lawrenson.

In this Township is an ancient Chappel of Ease, called Little-Legh Chappel, with∣in the Parish of Great-Budworth. It was lately Repaired by the Inhabitants of Little-Legh, Anno Domini 1664. whereunto Five Pounds was given, towards the Repair thereof, by the Parishioners of Great-Budworth, me praesente.

Legh, vulgo High-Legh,

GIlbert Venables, Baron of Kinderton, held this Town in the Reign of The Conque∣ror, under Hugh Lupus Earl of Chester: Ulviet & Dot pro duobus Maneriis te∣nuerunt; ibi una Hida Geldabilis; ibi Presbyter & Ecclesia, cùm uno Villano, & duobus Bordariis, habens dimidiam Carucam; ibi Silva unius Leuvae Longitudine, & dimidiae Leu∣vae in Latitudine: As you may read more at large in Doomsday-book.

So that it appears here was a Church at the Time of the Conquest; but at this day no Prints thereof remain.

Here is now a Chappel of Ease in this Township, called High-Legh Chappel, with∣in the Parish of Rosthorn, which was built by Thomas Legh of High-Legh de East-Hall Esquire, Anno Domini 1581. as I find the Year, his Name, and Coat of Arms en∣graven in the Stone on the side of the same Chappel: In which very Year his Grand∣son, George Legh, married Elizabeth second Daughter of Peter Leycester of Nether-Tab∣ley Esquire, and Co-heir to the Lands of her Mother Elizabeth, sole Daughter and Heir of Edward Colwich of Colwich in Staffordshire, near Owsley-Bridge, as appears by my own Deeds; and in which Year also the said Thomas Legh died: which Thomas built the New Hall of Stone in High-Legh, called The East-Hall, in which House his Heirs do now Inhabit, the Old Hall there being pulled down.

Here was also another ancient Chappel of Ease in this Township, belonging to the Family of the Leghs of the West-Hall in High-Legh: The Fabrick is yet standing near to his House; but now converted to other Uses, by the Heirs of that Family. This Chappel was built about the Reign of Henry the Fourth. See in Limme.

In the Reign of Edward the First, I find one Hugh de Legh, Ancestor to the Leghs of the East-Hall in High-Legh, possessed of the Moiety of High-Legh: The Right Line of which Hugh ending about the Reign of Henry the Seventh, a long Suit hap∣ned between the Daughters and Co-heirs* 45.7 on the one Part, and Thomas Legh of Northwood on the other Part; which Thomas then Claimed as next Heir-Male, by vertue of an Entail, and Reco∣vered; of whom is descended Henry Legh of the East-Hall Esquire, now living, 1666. and branched out first from the ancient Leghs of the East-Hall under Edward the Third: For John Legh of the East-Hall, Son and Heir of Hugh, Lord of the Moiety of High-Legh, tempore Edw. 2. had Issue William Legh de East-Hall, Son and Heir, (of whom the Leghs de East-Hall, who continued till the Issue-Male of that Line failed under Henry the Seventh) and John Legh of Alpram, second Son, from whom the Leghs of Northwood in High-Legh anciently descended, whose Heir Thomas Legh of Northwood was adjudged next Heir-Male, and from whom the Leghs of the East-Hall now in being, and Lords of the Moiety of High-Legh: And Matthew Legh, third Son of John, of whom the Leghs of Swineyard in High-Legh, yet in being, 1666. are descended.

The other Moity of High-Legh was possessed by Thomas de Legh, Ancestor to the Leghs of the West-Hall in High-Legh, whom I have seen subscribed as a Witness un∣to sundry old Deeds made in the Reign of Edward the First, by the Name of Thomâ

Domino medietatis Villae de Legâ. But one half of this Moiety was Purchased by Sir Richard Massy of Tatton, towards the middle of Edward the First's Reign, as may ap∣pear by this Partition.—

HAEc est Partitio Terrarum in Villâ de Legh—Intèr Dominum Ricardum de Massy Militem, & Thomam de Legh ex unâ parte; & Hugonem quondam Dominum de medietate Villae de Legh, & Johannem Filium & Haeredem ejusdem Hugonis, & Matthaeum de Alpraham custodem ejusdem Johannis, ex alterâ parte; videlicèt, Quòd Terrae & Tene∣menta subscripta remaneant in perpetuùm Domino Ricardo de Massy & Thomae de Legh, & Haeredibus eorum seu Assignatis, in Campo Jordani de Verdon sex Acrae— Aud so of se∣veral other Parcels: Lib. C. fol. 267. 9, 10. This was in the Reign of Edward the First: The Original Penès Legh de West-Hall, 1665.

Roger de Monte alto, Seneschallus Cestriae, Confirms to Sir Richard Massy all the Lands and Tenements, cùm Boscis & Wastis, which he had of the Grant of Raufe Son of Wil∣liam de Hawarden, in the Township of Legh; Robert Grosvenour, then Sheriff of Che∣shire, being one of the Witnesses: which was about Anno Domini 1286. The Ori∣ginal among the Evidences of the Earl of Bridgewater, 1667. whose Heirs at this day enjoy the same: videlicet, The Earl of Bridgewater hath a fourth Part of High Legh, which belonged to the Massies of Tatton; and Mr. Legh of the West-Hall in High-Legh hath now one other fourth Part of High-Legh, which belonged to his Ancestors of An∣cient Time.

Charterers in High-Legh, 1666.

• 1. John Gleyve of High-Legh. This is a very ancient Free-hold: For Matthew Somervyle, Lord of Alpraham, releaseth Gilbert Gleyve from his Service to the Court of Alpraham, 1270. 54 Hen. 3. And Thomas de Legh, Dominus medie∣tatis Villae de Legh, gave unto Gilbert, Son of Gilbert Gleyve of High-Legh, freedom of Pannage in all the Woods of High-Legh, about the beginning of the Reign of King Edward the First. And Agnes de Legh, the Widow of Richard de Limme, calls Gilbert Gleyve her Uncle; which Agnes was Daugh∣ter and Heir of Richard de Legh Lord of the Moiety of High-Legh, and Mo∣ther of Thomas de Legh aforesaid, as shall by and by appear. Lib. C. fol. 269. num. 10, 11, 14. The Originals Penès John Gleyvè aforesaid, 1664.
• 2. Richard Legh of Swineyard in High-Legh Gentleman. This Family branched out of the ancient Leghs of the East-Hall in High-Legh, under Edward the Third; whose Ancestor, Matthew Legh, marrying Margery Daughter and Heir of Richard de Sworton in High-Legh, had the half of Sworton, 1369.
• 3. Peter Legh of Northwood in High-Legh. He is descended from Gawen Legh, younger Son of Matthew Legh of Swineyard. This Gawen Purchased his Land in Northwood from the Leghs of West-Hall, and married Margaret Daughter of Thomas Grimsdich of Hallum in Newton juxtà Daresbury; which Gawen and Margaret were living 32 Hen. 8.
• ...

  4. Mr. Millington of Millington. He had about thirty Acres in High-Legh; which Land came to his Ancestor Aytrop de Millington, in Marriage with Margery Daughter of Richard de Legh, in the Reign of Henry the Third: Lib. C. fol. 273. num. 3. The Original remained among the Evidences of Mr. Mil∣lington aforesaid, 1665.

  But this Land is now sold to Mr. Geffrey Cartwright of Baggiley.

  This was Parcel of the Moiety belonging to Legh of the West-Hall, from whose Ancestor it came.

• 5. Thomas Dichfield of Swineyard.
• 6. Widow Wilkinson.
• 7. Pownall of Barnton hath Land in the Mosse-houses.
• ...

• 8. Widow Harper of Northwood, in the Lord Bridgewater's Part.
• 9. John Bentley of Northwood, in the Earl of Bridgewater's Part.

So much of the Charterers.

We are now to take notice, That Agnes de Legh, Daughter and Heir of Richard de Legh Lord of the Moiety of High-Legh, had three Husbands. Her first Husband was Richard de Limme, younger Son of Hugh de Limme Lord of the Moiety of Limme; by whom she had Issue Thomas de Legh of the West-Hall in High-Legh, Sirnamed de Legh from the Place of his Birth and Residence, as was very usual in those Ages; which Sir-name of Legh his Posterity ever since retained to this day.

Her second Husband was William Venables of Bradwell, younger Brother to Sir Hugh Venables Baron of Kinderton; by whom she had Issue John de Legh, Sirnamed also from the Place of his Education and Residence; which Sir-name of Legh his Posteri∣ty also ever since retained. This John de Legh purchased Knotsford-Booths, cùm Nor∣bury-Booths, from William de Tabley, 28 Edw. 1. 1300. And from this John de Legh are the Leghs of Booths nigh Knotsford descended.

The third Husband of Agnes was William de Hawarden, by whom she had Issue Raufe de Hawarden; which Raufe had the Half of the Moiety of High-Legh given him by his Half-Brother Thomas Legh of the West-Hall; and Raufe sold his Part to Sir Richard Massy of Tatton, 1286.

All which will better appear by these Evidences following.

a. SCiant—Ego Ricardus Filius Ricardi de Legh dedi—Ricardo Filio Hugonis de Limme, dimidiam Bovatam Terrae (illam, quam Gilbertus Filius Walteri Bek te∣nuit) cùm Agnete Filiâ meâ in Libero Maritagio—&c. Testibus Hugone de Limme, Thomâ Fratre suo, Adâ de Lehe, Hugone Filio suo, Madiou de Sworton, Rogero Parsonâ de Limme,—&c. The Original now in possession of Legh de West-Hall, 1666. Lib. C. fol. 268. 30. Sub Hen. 3.

b. SCiant—Ego Agnes de Legh, quondàm Uxor Ricardi de Limme, in meâ propriâ viduitate dedi—Gilberto Glaive de eâdem Avunculo meo, pro Homagio & Servi∣tio suo, totam medietatem de quodam Assarto quod vocatur Le Park, cùm Morâ quae vo∣catur Le Park-Moor,—&c. Reddendo inde annuatìm unum Par Cheirothecarum, vel unum Denarium, ad Nativitatem Sancti Johannis Baptistae, pro Omnibus—Testibus Domino Willielmo de Massy, Domino Johanne de Sonbach tùnc Rectore Ecclesiae de Rost∣horne,—&c. Lib. C. fol. 270. 14. The Original in Possession of John Gleyve of High-Legh, 1666.

c. SCiant—Ego Radulfus Filius Willielmi de Hawerthin dedi—Thomae Fratri meo, & Haeredi, totam Terram unà cùm Bosco in Territorio Villae de Legâ—in Schirley-Hey; exceptis quatuordecem Acris Terrae, quas dedi Johanni Fratri meo Filio Willielmi Venables,—&c. Testibus Domino Willielmo de Venables, Domino Hamone de Massy, Do∣mino Ricardo de Massy Militibus, Roberto le Grosvenour tùnc Vicecomite Cestershiriae,-&c. about Anno Domini 1286. Lib. C. fol. 267. num. 17. The Original Penès Legh de High-Legh de West-Hall, 1666.

d. SCiant—Quòd ego Thomas de Legh dedi—Johanni Filio Willielmi Venables, Fratri meo, pro Homagio suo, sexdecem Acras & dimidium Terrae in Villâ de Legh juxta Swineyard—in Escambio pro quatuordecem Acris Terrae, quas habuit ex dono Ra∣dulfi Fratris sui apud Schirley.—Testibus Hamone de Massy, Ricardo de Massy Militibus, Hugone de Leye, Aitropo de Millington,—&c. Lib. C. fol. 271. num. 4.

e. OMnibus Christi fidelibus—Willielmus Filius Willielmi Venables de Bradwell Sa∣lutem. Noveritis me remisisse Johanni de Legh de Terris & Tenementis in Rost∣horne—quae praedictus Johannes habet ex dono Willielmi Patris mei. Testibus Domino Petro de Warburton, Willielmo de Baggelegh Militibus, Willielmo de Mobberley tùnc Vice∣comite Cestershiriae, Roberto de Massy de Tatton, Hamone de Ashlegh,—&c. Datum 13 Edw. 2. 1319. Lib. H. of John Booth's Collections, pag. 122. g. Which Lands in Rosthorne, Legh of Booths hath at this day, 1666.

f. UNiversis Christi fidelibus—Johannes Filius Johannis de Legh Miles salutem in Domino. Sciatis me remisisse Roberto de Legh Fratri meo, & Sibillae Uxori ejus, totum jus in Terris, quas praedictus Robertus habuit ex dono & Feoffamento Johannis de Legh Patris mei, in Villâ de Legh in Parochiâ de Rosthorne—Datum apùd Manne∣rium de Boothes, die Martis proximè post Festum Sancti Jacobi, Anno Domini 1336. (10 Edw. 3.) Lib. C. fol. 271. num. 6. Which very Tenement in High-Legh con∣tinued in the Possession of the Leghs of Adlington, until Sir Vrian Legh of Adling∣ton, not very long since, sold the same to John Legh of Aldford, who sold it to his Brother Richard Legh of Swineyard in High-Legh, 45 Eliz. 1602. whose Heirs now enjoy the same. Lib. C. fol. 270. num. 19, 20.

By all which it appears, first, That Richard de Limme married Agnes Daughter and Heir of Richard de Legh of High-Legh de West-Hall. a. b.

That Thomas de Legh, John de Legh Son of William Venables, and Raufe Hawardyn, were Brothers. c. d.

That this John de Legh was afterwards Legh of Boothes. e. Which he purchased from William de Tabley, 21 Edw. 1. 1300. as you may see above in Over-Knotsford.

That Robert Legh was younger Son of this first John Legh del Boothes; from whom the Leghs of Adlington. f.

Now followeth the Descent of the Leghs of the West-Hall in High-Legh.

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

I. Gilbert de Limme lived in the Reign of King John: Lib. C. fol. 141. and had Issue Hugh and Tho∣mas: Lib. C. fol. 268. num. 30. & 263. a.

II. Hugh de Limme Lord of the Moiety of Limme, Son of Gilbert, lived 1258. Emma Uxor ejus.

He had Issue Alan Lord of Limme; Richard de Limme, another Son; Simon, another Son; and Beatrix, a Daughter. Lib. C. fol. 272. 9. & 269. 4. & 263. d.e. & 264. 2, 3, 4.

III. Alan de Limme had Issue Gilbert, and Ag∣nes Soror Gilberti, living 33 Edw. 3. Lib. C. fol. 263. k.

IV. Gilbert de Limme, Son and Heir of Alan, had a Wife called Anabilla, 1338. and had Issue Peter, eldest Son, whose Son Peter married Mar∣garet Daughter of Sir Geffrey de Warburton, 1338. William, second Son of Gilbert; Richard, third Son; Robert, fourth Son: And four Daughters, Christian, Cicely, Agnes, and Edusa, all living 1338. Remanere Thomae de Legh, & Haeredibus. Lib. C. fol. 263. h.

I. Hamon Legh of the West-Hall in High-Legh; about Hen. 2.

II. William de Legh.

III. Richard de Legh, Son of William, had Issue Richard, and Ma∣doc, cui Pater dedit medietatem de Sworton in High-Legh; and Marge∣ry married Aytrop Son of Aytrop of Millington, tempore Hen. 3. Lib. C. fol. 273. num. 3.

IV. Richard de Legh, Son of Richard, Son of William, Son of Hamon de Legh.

V. Agnes, Daughter and Heir of Richard, had three Husbands: The first was Richard de Limme, younger Son of Hugh de Limme; and had Issue Thomas de Legh de West-Hall.

After she married William Ve∣nables of Bradwell, and by him had Issue John de Legh, from whom the Leghs of the Booths near Knots∣ford.

And lastly, she married Wil∣liam de Hawardyn, and by him had Issue Raufe de Hawardyn.

I. Thomas de Legh Lord of the Moiety of High-Legh,

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Or, a Lion Rampant, Gules.

Son and Heir of Richard de Limme, by Agnes de Legh Daughter and Heir of Richard de Legh de West-Hall in High-Legh, was Sirnamed de Legh from the Place of his Residence, after the manner of those Ages. He had to Wife Cicely which Thomas and Cicely were both living 1305. Lib. C. fol. 267. num. 11. and had Issue Thomas Legh, Son and Heir; Margery, a Daughter, married William Son and Heir of Robert Massy of Tatton: Lib. C. fol. 267. num. 12. Agnes married William Daniell of Limme: Lib. C. fol. 233. a. Sed quaere if Agnes were not Sister to Thomas Legh the Father. He had also two younger Sons; John Legh, on whom he setled Lands in Limme, 1 Edw. 2. and William Legh: Lib. C. fol. 268. num. 25.

This Thomas gave away one half of his Moiety of High-Legh, which came to Sir Richard Massy of Tatton, Regnante Edwardo Primo; so that he had onely one fourth Part of High-Legh afterwards, which his Heirs enjoy at this day, 1666.

This Thomas Legh died about 10 Edw. 2. Lib. C. fol. 268. num. 27.

II. Thomas Legh de West-Hall in High-Legh, Son and Heir of Thomas, married Alice and had Issue Thomas Legh Son and Heir, living 11 Edw. 2.

Gilbert de Limme releaseth to this Thomas Legh all his Right in the Advowson of the Moiety of the Church of Limme, 10 Edw. 2. 1316. Lib. C. fol. 266. num. 1. Since which time the Leghs of West-Hall have been Patrons of the half of Limme-Church, to this day, 1666.

Alice was Widow Anno Domini 1333. Lib. C. fol. 268. num. 28. I find her a Widow also 1330. Ibid. fol. 268. num. 38.

III. Thomas Legh de West-Hall in High-Legh, Son and Heir of Thomas, married and had Issue Richard Legh, Son and Heir; Agnes, a Daughter, married Robert Dumbill, from whom the Dumbills of Limme. Gilbert de Limme releaseth to this Agnes and Robert Dumbill, and the Heirs of their Bodies, all his Lands in Limme, cùm Servitiis liberorum Tenentium; Remanere Thomae Filio Johannis Dumbill praedicti, & Margaretae Filiae praedicti Thomae de Legh—Dated at Limme, on Thursday next after Michaelmas, 1342. Lib. C. fol. 263. I. So that Margaret, another Daughter, married Thomas Dumbill.

Agnes, Daughter of Alan de Limme, releaseth to Robert Dumbill, and Agnes his Wife, all her Right in all those Lands, Rents, and Services, which formerly be∣longed to her Brother Gilbert de Limme, in the Township of Limme. Dated at Limme, 33 Edw. 3. (1359.) Lib. C. fol. 263. k. The Originals in possession of Dumbill of Limme, 1664.

IV. Richard Legh de West-Hall in High-Legh, Son and Heir of Thomas, married Maud Daughter and Heir of Geffrey Massy of VVinsham, Anno Domini 1375. (49 Ed. 3.) Lib. C. fol. 266. num. 4, 5. Lib. B. pag. 35. h. and had Issue John Legh Son and Heir; and Alice married Richard Starky of Stretton.

This Richard was living 4 Hen. 5.

V. John Legh of VVest-Hall in High-Legh, Son and Heir of Richard, married and had Issue Richard Legh, Son and Heir; Roger Legh of Oldgrave in Cheshire; Margery married John Leycester of Nether-Tabley the younger,

20 Hen. 6. 1442. Son and Heir of John Leycester of Tabley, the elder, Esquire: Co∣venants of the Marriage are now in possession of Legh of VVest-Hall, 1666. Alice, ano∣ther Daughter, married John Son and Heir of John Parr of Worseley in Lancashire Esq 35 Hen. 6. Lib. C. fol. 280. h.

VI. Richard Legh de VVest-Hall in High-Legh Esquire, Son and Heir of John, mar∣ried Alice Daughter of John Leycester of Nether-Tabley, the Elder, Esquire, Anno Do∣mini 1442. 20 Hen. 6. and had Issue Thomas Legh, Son and Heir; John Legh of Ought∣rington in Limme, of whom the Leghs of Oughtrington; Maud married Nicholas Legh of East-Hall in High-Legh, 1463. Hamnet Legh, third Son; Peter Legh, fourth Son; Richard, fifth Son; Dowse married John Son and Heir of VVilliam Mere of Mere juxtà Over-Tabley, Esquire, living 1487. 3 Hen. 7. Lib. C. fol. 209. g. Isabel married Peter Venables of Anterbus in Over-VVhitley Lordship; Ellen married Richard Moldesworth of VVinsham, 19 Edw. 4. 1479. Lib. C. fol. 213. y. The Original penes Sir Peter Brooke of Mere, 1666.

This Richard Legh died about 1486. Lib. C. fol. 209. g.

VII. Thomas Legh of VVest-Hall in High-Legh Esquire, Son and Heir of Richard, married Dowse Daughter of Sir VVilliam Booth of Dunham-Massy, 1 Edw. 4. 1461. and had Issue Richard, Son and Heir, who died in the Life-time of his Father, having married Beatrix Daughter of Geffrey Boydell of Pulcroft, 3 Hen. 7. by whom he had Is∣sue Richard Legh, Son and Heir.

This Thomas had also George Legh of Manchester, second Son, whose Daughter and Heir Elizabeth married Alexander Barlow of Barlow in Lancashire: Alice Legh, another Daughter of Thomas, married Hamon Massy of Hale; afterwards she married George Newton: James Legh, third Son of Thomas: John Legh, fourth Son; Roger Legh, Par∣son of Limme, fifth Son: And Jane married Matthew Legh of Swineyard in High-Legh.

This Thomas Legh had a second Wife, called Joan, Daughter of John Holcroft of Holcroft in Lancashire; by whom he had Issue John Legh, Thomas Legh, and Jane Wife of Thomas Sanky of Little-Sanky in Lancashire.

VIII. Richard Legh of VVest-Hall in High-Legh Esquire, Son and Heir of Richard, and Grand-son of Thomas Legh, married Rose Daughter of Raufe Davenport of Daven∣port Esquire, 20 Hen. 7. 1504. by whom he had Issue Thomas Legh, Son and Heir, who married Katharine one of the Daughters and Heirs of Raufe Legh of the East-Hall in High-Legh Esquire; but he died without Issue, in the Life-time of his Father: Also Parnell, and Anne, two Daughters by Rose.

After the death of Rose, Richard married Anne Hough, Sister of Richard Hough of Leighton; by whom he had Issue Richard Legh, Heir to his Father; George, another Son; John Legh, another Son, who married Mary Daughter of Alexander Barlow of Barlow in Lancashire; Dorothy Legh, a Daughter, married David Massy of Broxton in Cheshire.

IX. Richard Legh de VVest-Hall in High-Legh, Esquire, Son and Heir of Richard, married Clemence Daughter of John Holcroft of Holcroft in Lancashire, and had Issue Richard Legh, Son and Heir; John Legh, second Son, died young; Peter Legh, third Son, afterwards became Heir; Francis Legh of London; George Legh, another Son; John Legh of London, another Son, married Dorothy Daughter and Heir of Thomas Eaton, and Widow of Robert Holcroft, and had Issue: Thomas Legh, another Son; Elizabeth, a Daughter, married Thomas Torbock; Jane married John Aston of Aston in Mondrum; Margaret married Thomas Haughton.

After the death of Clemence, he married Margery Widow of George Tirrell of Thorn∣ton in Buckinghamshire, and had Issue by her, Thomas Legh, John Legh, George Legh, VVilliam Legh, [Obiit 1582] and Agnes.

This Richard Legh de VVest-Hall died Anno Domini 1582.

X. Richard Legh de West-Hall in High-Legh, Esquire, Son and Heir of Richard, married Anne Daughter of Raufe Belfield of Gledge, but was divorced from her; [Obiit 1586] and he died without Issue, Anno Domini 1586. leaving his Brother Peter to succeed in his Inheritance.

XI. Peter Legh de West-Hall in High-Legh, Esquire, Brother and Heir to the last Richard, married Elizabeth Daughter of John Baptista Castilian of Benham-Valence in Berkshire, and had Issue Ricbard, who died young; Peter Legh, who succeeded Heir; Tho∣mas, another Son; Anne married Thomas Cooper of Ewborne in Berkshire; Mary married one Davys of Salisbury; Elizabeth married Nathaniel Lancaster Parson of Torperley in Cheshire; Jane, another Daughter; Frances married William Edwards Alderman of Chester; Margaret married one Wats a Schoolmaster at Walsingham; and Christian married Thomas Bate of Limme, a Physician. [Obiit 1613]

This Peter died 14 die Martii, 1613.

XII. Peter Legh de West-Hall in High-Legh, Esquire, Son and Heir of Peter, married Mary Daughter of Robert Tipping of Manchester, and had Issue Peter Legh, Son and Heir; Richard Legh, Thomas, Samuel, Edmund, William, James, and Elizabeth, all living 1665. [Obiit 1657]

This Peter died 1657. aged 62 Years.

XIII. Peter Legh de West-Hall in High-Legh, Esquire, Son and Heir of Peter, [Obiit 1665] was never married, and died without Issue, Anno Domini 1665.

XIV. Richard Legh de West-Hall in High-Legh, Esquire, Brother and Heir to the last Peter, is now living, but unmarried, Anno Domini 1669. [Obiit 1670] and died the twelfth of August, 1670. leaving Thomas his Brother to succeed in his Inheritance.

XV. Thomas Legh de West-Hall in High-Legh, Esquire, Brother and Heir to Richard, married Mary Daughter of William Austine Esquire, now of Westminster in London, but born in Northamptonshire, near Owndle; married Anno Domini 1660. and hath Issue Austine, Peter, William; all living 1670.

{fleur-de-lys} Here should have followed the Descent of the other Legh de East-Hall in High-Legh; but I could not have the Perusal of the Evidences of that Family: For that Henry Legh Esquire, now Owner thereof, affirmed, that his Deeds were most of them lost in the late War.

Limme.

IN this Township of Limme is a very ancient Parish-Church, Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, whose Wakes or Feast of Dedication is on the fifteenth day of Au∣gust, being the Feast of the Assumption of Mary; which Parish comprehendeth onely the Township of Limme: It is in our common Mize-book Mized at 01 l. 16 s. 00 d. A large Town, which containeth in it these little Hamlets or Places, known by the Names of Stathum, Reddish, Oughtrington, Brome, and Heateley.

Here hath been a Church before the Norman Conquest: For it appears by Dooms∣day-book, that in the Conqueror's Time Gilbert Venables Baron of Kinderton held half of this Town, which Ulviet formerly held; ibi dimidia Ecclesia cùm dimidiâ Virgatâ Terrae, saith the Record.

And Osberne Son of Tezzon held the other Half: He was Ancestor to the Boydells of Dodleston; ibi dimidia Ecclesia cùm Presbytero cùm dimidiâ Virgatâ Terrae quietâ.

So that either Lord had one half of the Church; and so at this day are two Parsons

Presented to Limme, who supply the Ministry there alternis vicibus; one, one Sunday; and the other, the next Sunday after, and so by course; Warburton of Arley being now Patron of one Moiety of the said Church, and Legh de West-Hall in High-Legh Pa∣tron of the other Moiety: And one Parson hath one half of the Tythes of Limme, and the other Parson hath the other half of the Tythes.

Gilbert de Limme released all his Right in the Advowson of the Moiety of Limme-Church unto Thomas Legh de West-Hall in High-Legh, 10 Edw. 2. 1316. The Original among the Evidences of Legh de West-Hall, 1666. Since which time that Family have continued their Right of Presenting to that Moiety, which (I conceive) was the Moiety belonging to Gilbert Venables in Doomsday-book.

The Steeple of this Church was Repaired, and built anew of Stone not many Ages since: For, Anno Domini 1521. I find by a Writing now in possession of Dumbill of Limme, That Sir Thomas Butler Knight, Sir Piers Legh, Sir John Warburton, Sir William Molineaux, Sir George Holford, Thomas Legh Esquire, Robert Reddish Esquire, James-Dumbill Esquire, Randle Clayton Esquire, William Wilm Gentleman, John Legh Gentleman, Sir Roger Legh Parson of the same Church, Sir Richard Comberbach, our Ladies Priest, and Overseer of the Work, Sir John Persevall Parish-Priest of the same Church, do desire a Charitable Contribution of all Pious Persons towards a Steeple of Stone then in Building at Limme-Church, whereof our Blessed Lady is the Founder, without which the Parish was not able to finish the Work; where there were three Priests to pray for the Benefactors: and Constituting Matthew Legh and Reginald Legh Collectors, to receive the Contributions. Dated the twenty fourth of April, 1521. Lib. C. fol. 264. P.

Ex Chartulariis Episcopi Coventriae & Lichfieldiae, Concerning the Presentations made by the Leghs de West-Hall in High-Legh, to the Moiety of Limme-Church: Being the Notes taken by William Vernon in July, 1649.

• 10 Edw. 2. ANno 1316. 11 Calendas Februarii, Thomas Filius Thomae de Legh, Pa∣tronus, praesentat Ricardum de Massy (post mortem Domini Petri de Limme, quondàm Rectoris medietatis Ecclesiea de Limme) ad medietatem Eccle∣siae de Limme.
• 23 Edw. 3. Anno 1349. 3 Nonas Septembris, Thomas de Legh Patronus medietatis Eccle∣siae de Limme, praesentat Adamum de Denfeld (or Wenfeld) Capellanum post mortem Jordani ultimi Rectoris.
• 35 Edw. 3. Anno 1361. Thomas Legh Patronus medietatis Ecclesiae de Limme, praesentat Thomam Filium Johannis de Legh Clericum ad medietatem Ecclesiae praedictae.
• 13 Rich. 2. Anno 1390. 2 die Aprilis, Ricardus de Legh Patronus, praesentat Thomam Fi∣lium Thomae de Legh Presbyterum ad medietatem Ecclesiae de Limme.
• 9 Hen. 4. Anno 1408. penultimo Augusti, concessit Episcopus Incolis, ceu Inhabitantibus Villulam de Leye infrà Parochiam de Rosthorn, quòd possint facere Divina Celebrari in Capellâ de Leye.
• 4 Hen. 5. Anno 1416. 4 die Augusti, Nobilis Vir Ricardus de Legh Armiger, Patronus, praesentat Rogerum Dumbill ad medietatem Ecclesiae de Limme.
• 35 Hen. 6. Anno 1457. 18 die Octobris, Johannes Legh de Legh Armiger, Patronus, prae∣sentat Ricardum Vayse Capellanum ad medietatem Ecclesiae de Limme per Re∣signationem Hamonis Leycester ultimi Rectoris.
• 33 Hen. 6. Anno 1455. 21 die Novembris, Licentia Hamundi Leycester in Legibus Baca∣larii, Rectoris medietatis Ecclesiae de Limme, de non Residendo.
• 12 Edw. 4. Anno 1472. ultimo Januarii, Venerabilis vir Ricardus Legh Armiger, Patro∣nus, per resignationem Ricardi Vayse, praesentat Nicolaum Devyas ad medieta∣tem Ecclesiae de Limme.
• ...

• 4 Hen. 7. Anno 1489. 14 die Augusti, Thomas Legh de Legh Armiger, Patronus, praesen∣tat, post mortem Nicolai Devyas ultimi Rectoris, Hamonem Legh ad medie∣tatem Ecclesiae de Limme.
• 16 Hen. 7. Anno 1501. in July, Thomas Legh Armiger, Patronus, praesentat Johannem Heton Capellanum, post mortem Hamonis Legh, ultimi Rectoris, ad medieta∣tem Ecclesiae de Limme.

Concerning the other Moiety of the Church, belonging to War∣burton of Arley.

• 1 Edw. 3. ANno 1327. 11 Calendas Aprilis, Robertus de Warburton Miles, Patronus medietatis Ecclesiae de Limme, praesentat Willielmum Warburton Cleri∣cum, post mortem Roberti de Dentene, ad medietatem pradictam.
• 41 Edw. 3. Anno 1367. 2 Nonas Octobris, Johannes Daniell Miles, & Johanna Uxor ejus, praesentant Petrum de Shawe, post mortem Willielmi de Warburton ul∣timi Rectoris.
• 14 Rich. 2. Anno 1391. 28 die Junii, Dominus Johannes Massy de Tatton Miles, Patronus hâc vice ratione Custodiae Petri Warburton minoris aetatis in manu dicti Jo∣hannis, praesentat, post mortem Domini Petri de Shagh ultimi Rectoris, Jo∣hannem Berkin Presbyterum, ad medietatem Ecclesiae de Limme.
• 10 Hen. 6. Anno 1432. 7 die Octobris, Galfridus Warburton Miles, Patronus, praesentat Ro∣gerum Dumbill utriusque Juris Bacalaurium, per resignationem Johannis Berkin ultimi Rectoris, ad medietatem Ecclesiae de Limme.
• 36 Hen. 6. Anno 1458. 7 die Maii, Hugo Calveley, Philippus Egerton Armigeri, & Jo∣hannes de Hogh, hâc vice ratione Feoffamenti Petri Warburton Armigeri, praesentant* 46.1 Richardum Chounall Capellanum, ad medietatem Ecclesiae de Limme.
• 1 Hen. 7. Anno 1486. 24 die Februarii, Rogerus Chapman per mortem* 46.2 Thomae Chou∣nall, vacante medietate Ecclesiae praedictae.

In the Feodary of Halton under Edward the Second, it is said,—Gilbertus de Limme tenet medietatem Villae de Limme, pro medietate unius Feodi Militis.

The Issue of this Gilbert failing, Thomas Legh de West-Hall in Hig-Legh was next Heir, as descended Lineally from Richard Limme Uncle of the said Gilbert.

And indeed at last Gilbert de Limme settles all his Lands in Limme, cùm Servitiis li∣berorum Tenentium, on Robert Dumbill, Son of John Dumbill, and Agnes Daughter of Thomas Legh de West-Hall, and on the Heirs of the Bodies of the said Robert and Agnes, Anno Domini 1342. 16 Edw. 3. from whence are descended the Dumbills of Limme.

This Robert Dumbill (if I mistake not) was younger Son of John Dumbill of Oxton in Wirrall in Cheshire.

John Dumbill (Son of the said Robert and Agnes) was retained the King's Servant, and had Five Pounds yearly Pension for his Life given him out of the Exchequer at Chester. Dated 21 Rich. 2. 1397. Lib. C. fol. 264. m. and was employed in the War against Owen Glendore, 3 Hen. 4. and was a Soldier under Sir John Stanley Governor of Roxborough-Castle, 20 Rich. 2. Lib. C. fol. 263. i. k. m. n. o. The Original in possession of Dumbill of Limme, 1664.

In which Family of the Dumbills of Limme, hath the Moiety of the Town of Limme, and the Seigniory thereof, ever since continued to this present.

The Advowson of the Moiety of Limme-Church, being formerly granted away to Thomas Legh de West-Hall by the said Gilbert de Limme, 10 Edw. 2. continueth still in the same Family, as I have shewed before.

Indeed I find the first Gilbert de Limme to have lived about King John's Time, who was Lord of the Moiety of Limme; which Family of Limme were Sirnamed from the Place of their Residence here, and continued to the end of Edward the Third, the last Gilbert de Limme and his Issue-Male then failing.

But whether the first Gilbert de Limme was originally a Venables, or of what other Family, and how this Moiety came to the Baron of Halton, from the Baron of Kin∣derton, I find no mention.

The Seigniory of the other Moiety hath for long time belonged to the Warburtons of Arley; howbeit, at this day he hath not above six or seven Tenements in possession there. How it came from the Boydells to Warburton, I find not precisely: I conceive it came with Agnes Daughter and Heir of Roger Fitz-Alfred in Marriage to Adam de Dutton Ancestor of Warburton, together with the Moiety of Warburton, and other Lands, about the Reign of Richard the First.

In this Township are now, 1666. these Charterers.

• 1. John Gandy of Over-Limme-Booths.
• 2. John Dichfield of Stathum lately Purchased Cherry-tree-hurst, formerly Daniell of Tabley's Land.
• 3. John Legh of Oughtrington.
• 4. Gilbert Steel of Reddish.
• 5. Robert Gleyve of Heateley.
• 6. John Blackburne of Limme-Booths.
• 7. Richard Legh of Lyme Esq hath seven Tenements.
• 8. Randle Cross of Limme nigh Agden.
• 9. William Reddish of Stathum.
• 10. Richard Rowlinson of Stathum.
• 11. John Trevis of Chester, formerly Daniell's of Tabley.
• 12. Peter Davys of Oughtrington.
• 13. James Hey of Limme-Booths.
• 14. Nicolas Peacock of Brown-Edge in Limme.
• 15. John Perceivall of Stathum.
• 16. Peter Martin of Heateley; formerly Daniell's.
• 17. Richard Deane of Heateley; formerly Daniell's.
• 18. Robert Thomason; formerly Daniell's.
• 19. John Legh of Higher-Lane.
• 20. Richard Dutton of Reddish.
• 21. Peter Page in Stathum.

Marbury.

THis Hamlet of Marbury comprehendeth onely the Mannor-House, with the De∣main-Lands thereunto belonging; and hath its Name from our two old English Words, [Mere] which signifies A great Lake or Pool, and [Birig] which signifies A House, or Place covered, and sometimes A Town: So Verstegan. And here denotes as much as A House or Dwelling by the Mere.

About the very beginning of Henry the Third's Reign, Warin Vernon Baron of Shib∣brok confirms this Hamlet to William de Merebirie, in these Words.—

GUarinus de Vernon Omnibus Amicis & hominibus suis, Clericis & Laicis, Francis & Anglis, tàm praesentibus quàm futuris, Salutem. Notum sit vobis me concessisse & hâc meâ praesenti Chartâ confirmâsse Willielmo de Merebiriâ totam Villam de Merebiriâ; Tenendam de me & Haeredibus meis, illi & Haeredibus suis, cùm omnibus pertinentiis suis, in Bosco, in Plano, in Pratis, in Pascuis, in Molendinis, in Vivariis, in Aquis, in Viis, in Se∣mitis, & in omnibus aliis locis, & in omnibus Libertatibus ad praedictam Villam de Merebiriâ pertinentibus, Haereditariè sicùt Ricardus Frater suus de Merebiriâ concessit & ei pèr Char∣tam

suam coràm nobis consirmavit, & sicùt Ranulphus de Merebiriâ Pater suus eam meliùs & liberiùs tenuit & habuit unquàm in vitâ suâ, liberè & honorificè, & eodem Servitio, sci∣licèt, pro sextâ parte Servitii unius Militis. Ut autèm haec nostra confirmatio futuris tempo∣ribus rata & inconcussa permaneat, eam Sigilli mei impressione coràm hiis Testibus confirma∣vi, Ricardo de Vernon & Matthaeo de Filio suo, Gilberto de Bostock & Willielmo Filio suo, Hu∣gone de Tiwâ, Hamone Briton, Matthaeo de Muneshull & Ricardo Fratre suo, Radulfo Filio Rogeri Dispensatoris & Willielmo Fratre suo, Willielmo Capellano de Shibbrok, & aliis multis.

A very fair Seal; In a Rondlet a Lion Rampant, written about thus,—SIGILL. WARINI DE VERNUN. The Original hereof remaining among the Evidences at Merbury, 1666.

From hence had this Family the Sir-name of Merbury, and seems to be originally a Vernon. Nothing more usual than in those Elder Ages to be stiled from the Places of their Habitation, which After-ages retained as Sir-names.

This Family hath continued in this Seat ever since, by the Name of the Merburies; and Thomas Merbury of Merbury Esq is now Owner thereof, 1666.

Out of this Family branched Randle Merbury in the Reign of Edward the First, whose Son Simon married Idonea Daughter and Heir of Thomas de Walton, from whom the Marburies of Walton in this Hundred were propagated. See more hereof in Walton.

Marston.

THis Township of Marston is not in Doomsday-book, and seemeth to have its Name from the two Meres whereto it adjoineth, to wit, Budworth-Mere, and Pickmere-Mere; as it were Meres-Town, or The Town abutting on the Meres. It hath very anciently belonged to the Barons of Kinderton.

Andrew Prior of Norton, and the Convent there, granted unto Sir William Venables Charissimo Amico nostro, to find him the Celebration of Divine Service in his Chappel at Marston, during his Life-time, when either he or his Wife shall be there; and do also Lease to Robert his Son, Clerk, their Tythe of the Mill, and of the Fishings there, about the beginning of Henry the Third: Lib. H. num. 21.

It seems Hugh Son of Alfred of Marston had some Parcel of Land here tempore Edw. 3. For Richard Venables releaseth to Hamon de Venables all his Right de Pueris Hu∣gonis de Marston. Ibidèm, num. 7.

Peter Venables Esquire, now Baron of Kinderton, 1666. hath an old Mannor-House in Marston, with ancient Demain-Lands thereunto belonging; and hath also all the rest of Marston Township in possession of his Tenants there, except onely,—

• 1. Richard Symcock's Tenement in Marston, now belonging to Sir Peter Leycester of Nether-Tabley; which Tenement was sold by Sir Thomas Venables of Kinderton, and Thomas his Son and Heir, to Peter Leycester of Tabley Esquire, 6 Elizabethae, 1564. and adjoyneth to Nether-Tabley: B. num. 2.
• 2. Bromfield's Lands in Marston, which anciently belonged to Bromfield of Witton; but now Richard Wilcocson hath bought Part hereof; and the other Part, called Sim-fields, Peter Kennardy of Aston juxtà Pickmere hath bought.

Marthall.

IN the Conqueror's Time, in Doomsday-book, I find no mention of Marthall.

But this Town anciently belonged to the Wynningtons of Wynnington nigh North∣wich, in whose Offices they are found to hold it of the Heirs of Manwaring of War∣mincham in Soccage, by the yearly Rent of one Penny.

Of which Family, Richard Wynnington of Wynnington Esquire married Katharine the fifth Daughter and Co-heir to Robert Grosvenour of Houlme in Allostock Esquire, by whom he had the Mannor of Pulford beyond Chester, by Partition, Anno 1465. and a fifth part of Allostock, as Heir to her Sister Margery Grosvenour, by Partition, Anno 1474. and had Issue three Sons, Richard Wynnington, Peter, and George; and two Daughters, Jane, and Elizabeth; all living 5 Hen. 7. Lib. C. fol. 125. F. & 161. O.

Richard Wynnington, Son and Heir of Richard and Katharine, married Joan Smith, and had Issue two Daughters, Katharine, who died without Issue 23 Hen. 7. as appears by her Office taken 6 Hen. 8. and Elizabeth married Sir Piers Warburton of Arley, 2 Hen. 8. being then sole Daughter and Heir: For Richard Wynnington died 19 Hen. 7. Joan his Wife died 24 Hen. 7. and Sir Piers Warburton died 4 Edw. 6. and Elizabeth his Wife, Daughter and Heir of Richard Wynnington of Wynnington Esquire, died Anno sexto Mariae.

So that Warburton of Arley had by this Match all the Lands then belonging to Wynnington of Wynnington, as well as the Part of Grosvenour's Lands before-mentioned, which descended also; whose Heir at this day, 1666. is possessed of the Town of Marthall entirely, there being no Free-holder or Charterer in this Township at all.

Mere.

THis Town undoubtedly took its Name from the Mere therein; and was held by Gilbert Venables Baron of Kinderton in the Time of William the Conqueror, which one Ulviet held before.

Not many Ages after, it became the Seat of the Family of the Meres, who took their Sir-name from hence; among whom Robert de Mere senior lived about the Reign of King John; whether originally a Venables, I cannot positively affirm.

Ex Bundello Escaetarum in Turri Londinensi, 8 Rich. 2. Willielmus de Mere tenuit Villam de Mere, cùm medietate Manerii de Bollinton, de Hugone de Venables; which Hugh was Lord of Kinderton.

Certain it is, this Family of Mere of Mere continued in this Seat a long time to∣gether, until in our days John Mere of Mere Esquire, and William his Son, sold this Mannor of Mere unto Peter Brooks, younger Son of Thomas Brooks of Norton Esquire, Anno Domini 1652. Which Peter also bought the Estate of Thomas Merbury of Wal∣ton, and was after Sir Peter Brooks, Knighted Anno Domini 1660. and Sheriff of Che∣shire, 1669. He hath Beautified and Built anew the Hall of Mere very handsomly; and had three Wives: The first was Alice Hulse, Daughter and Heir of Richard Hulse of Killingworth in Warwickshire, by whom he had Issue Thomas Brooks, eldest Son, who married Margaret Daughter and Heir of Henry Brereton of Eccleston in Cheshire, Gentle∣man, 1663. Richard Brooks, second Son, who married Margaret Daughter and Heir of Robert Charnock of Charnock in Lancashire, 1666.

The second Wife of Sir Peter Brooks was Frances the Widow of William Merbury of Merbury nigh Comberbach in Cheshire Esquire, and Daughter of Sir Nicholas Trot of Quickshot in Hartfordshire; but had no Issue by her.

The third Wife of Sir Peter Brooks of Mere, was Mabill the Widow of Richard Clay∣ton of Crooke in Lancashire Esquire, and Daughter of William Farrington of Werden in Lancashire Esquire, who, with Sir Peter her Husband, are now living, 1669. but hath no Issue by her.

Charterers in Mere, 1666.

• 1. Henry Legh de East-Hall in High-Legh Esquire, pro Strethull-Farm, not long since Purchased from Hugh Cocker of Pickmere.
• 2. One Messuage in Possession of Robert Simmons, given to the use of the Poor of the Parish, whereof Massy of Mosse-house is a Feoffee.
• 3. George Venables of Agden Esquire, one small Tenement in Mere.
• 4. John Spinke of Howes-Heath in Mere.
• 5. William Pownall of Barnton, for Granthams Lands.
• 6. Peter Fernhead of Mere, for Granthams Lands.
• 7. John Bradburne of Mere.
• 8. John Bentley of the Hole in Mere.
• 9. George Bentley of Mere-Heys.
• 10. William Grantham of Mere, a small Parcel.
• 11. Edward Allen of Rosthorne, one small Tenement in Mere.
• 12, John Barker of Little-Legh, one small Tenement in Mere.

Middleton-Grange.

THis is but one Farm so called, lying in Aston juxtà Sutton: Vide suprà in Aston juxtà Sutton.

Millington.

IN the Time of William the Conqueror, William Son of Nigell, Baron of Halton, held Millington in Bucklow-Hundred: So we read in Doomsday-book.

John Constable of Cheshire, and Baron of Halton, in the Reign of Henry the Se∣cond, gave to Wrono of Stretton half of Millington, to wit, that which he had in his Demain; Rendring yearly a little Irish Nag, called A Hobby, at Midsommer: Where∣unto Hugh Dutton, and Adam his Son, with several others, were Witnesses: Lib. C. fol. 154. c. out of Vernon's Notes.

Whereby it should seem he had then but half of Millington in his Fee, if these Words [Quam habuit in Dominico suo] be understood of his Fee: Unless Dominico here be understood of his Demain, or in his own Hands, not given away from him, as the other Moiety was; which very probably is so meant here.

For Hugh de Millington, being seised of Lands here before the Grant made by John Constable to Wrono de Strettonâ, gives unto Wrono Punterling (called also Wrono de Stret∣ton) duas Bovatas Terrae in Millington.—Faciendo Servitium Forense quantum pertinet aliis duabus Bovatis undè octo Bovatae faciunt octavam partem Militis in eâdem Villâ. Hiis Testibus, Hugone de Duttonâ, Adâ Filio suo, Ranulfo Filio Gilberti, & Gilberto Filio suo, Tobaldo Avunculo Comitis, & Hereberto de Punterling, Liulfo de Twamlow, & Ranulfo de Davenham, & omni Hundredo Haltonae: Which John Constable also confirmed: Lib. C. fol. 273. num. 1, 2. The Originals Penès Millington of Millington, 1666.

So the Office of John Millington of Millington, 37 Elizabethae, finds he held one half of Millington of the Honour of Halton, by the eighth part of a Knights Fee; and the other half of Millington he held of the Honour of Halton, in Soccage, by the yearly Rent of two Shillings: Possibly the yearly Rent in tract of time might be continued, in lieu of the Irish Hobby aforesaid.

But to return. Certain it is, That Aytrop de Millington (whom I take to be the Son of Hugh) married Christian Daughter and Heir of Wrono de Stretton aforesaid, about the Reign of Henry the Second; Lib. B. pag. 200. num. 6. and so he came to be pos∣sessed of all Millington.

This Town gave Sir-name to the Family of the Millingtons, Seated here near to the Time of the Conqueror: A very ancient Family of Gentlemen, and continuing at this day; William Millington of Millington Gentleman being now Owner thereof, 1664. He died in June, 1666.

Aytrop de Millington, Son of the first Aytrop, as I take it, gave unto Robert Blund of Bexton, pro finali Concordiâ intèr nos factâ de fine Duelli, unam dimidiam Bovatam Ter∣rae in Villâ de Mulinton—Rendring three Pence at Martlemas yearly—Philip Orreby being then Judge of Chester, &c. sub initio Hen. 3. Lib. C. fol. 274. num. 6. The Ori∣ginal in possession of Millington of Millington.

Charterers in Millington, 1666.

• 1. The Lord Delamere of Dunham-Massy: Two Tenements, bought from Mil∣lington.
• 2. Venables of Agden, one Tenement, in possession of Hugh Gandy; but part of Gandy's Tenement lieth in Agden: That Parcel lying in Millington, was given by Aytrop de Millington to the Priory of Norton, about King John's Time: Lib. B. pag. 200. num. 6. Afterwards, scilicèt 1329. Robert de Millington bought it of Agnes Daughter of William de la Booths, and sold it to William de Aketon (or Agden) from whom it descended to Venables of Agden.
• 3. Geffrey Cartwright Gentleman hath lately bought the Shaw-house in Millington, from Millington of Millington.

Mobberley.

MObberley-Church was Dedicated to St. Wilfrid, a Holy Archbishop of York, who died Anno Domini 708.4 Idus Octobris: Bede de Hist. Angliae, lib. 5. cap. 20. ad finem. And Mobberley-Wakes were formerly Celebrated on the twelfth day of Octo∣ber, though at this day those Dedication-Feasts are not so strictly observed.

Mr. Mallory of Mobberley is now Patron hereof; and this Rectory is conceived to be fully worth 120 l. per Annum. This Parish onely comprehendeth the Township of Mobberley, which is 1 l. 18 s. 00 d. in the Mize-book.

I find in Monasticon, the second Volume, pag. 320. That one Patrick de Mobberley Founded here a small Priory of Regular Canons, of the Order of St. Augustine, in Honour of God, the Virgin Mary, and St. Wilfrid, to abide and dwell for ever in the Church of Mobberley; whereunto he gave all that half of the Church of Mobberley, with its Appurtenances, which belonged to his Grant; so as the Parsons of the other half of the Church of Mobberley, which was not of his Grant, might challenge no Right in the said Tenements: And he Constituted one Walter, a Canon, the first Prior thereof. This was in the beginning of King John's Reign, about Anno Domini 1206.

By the half of the Church of Mobberley, seems to be included here the half of the Mannor of Mobberley: for in the end of the Grant is Liberty given to keep Courts there, as freely as ever the said Patrick kept the same.

But not long after, Patrick was Convented before Randle Blundevill Earl of Chester, as appears by this Inrolment following, a Copy whereof I received from old John Booth of Twamlow.

PAtricius de Mobberley, Conventus à Johanne Filio Augustini de Brethmete Fratris sui Primogeniti, in pleno Comitatu Cestriae, coràm Domino Comite Ranulpho, & Phi∣lippo de Orreby tùnc Justiciario Cestriae, Cognovit se nihil Juris Haereditarii habuisse in illâ medietate de Mobberley quam tenebat, nisi tantùm in vitâ suâ ex permissione Fratris sui Augustini Primogeniti, sicùt pleniùs continetur in Cheirographo intèr memorato Augustinum & Patricium Fratres habito: Et cùm saepè dictus Augustinus tùnc viam Universitatis in∣gressus

fuit, memoratus Johannes ejus Filius & Haeres seizinam praefatae Terrae recuperavit, & Homagium suum fecit indè Domino Ricardo de Aldford, qui ei fecit Chartam suam Con∣firmationis: quam tamèn Terram praefatus Patricius tenebat in vitâ suâ de ipso Johanne, ex permissione ipsius Johannis Nepotis sui: Et, sicut praemonstratum est, à Domino Ranulpho dicto Johanni per Chartam suam confirmata est: & irrotulatur in testimonium veritatis.

There was a Doomsday-book in our Exchequer at Chester formerly, wherein many Deeds and Records were Enrolled; but this Book of Record is now lost.

I suppose this Priory continued not long, the said Patrick having no further Estate in the half of Mobberley, than onely for his Life.

The Advowson of the whole Church was Invested in the Heirs of John Son of Augustine; which should have descended to John Leycester of Tabley, by the Settle∣ment of Sir Raufe Mobberley of Mobberley, dated Anno Domini 1359. had not the said John Leycester released all his Right and Claim, as well in the said Advowson, as in all the Lands which belonged to Sir Raufe Mobberley, unto John Dumbill of Mobberley, and to Cicely his Wife: Dated at Chester, on Tuesday next after the Feast of St. Mark the Evangelist, 1 Rich. 2. scilicèt, in April, 1378. Which Release is upon Record at Chester, in the Prothonotaries Office there, die Martis proximè post Festum Sanctae Mar∣garetae Virginis, 5 Rich. 2. Lib. A. fol. 129. gg. kk.

From Dumbill it came to Hulse; from Hulse, to Troutback; from Troutback, to Tal∣bot of Grafton, whose Posterity afterwards came to be Earls of Shrewsbury; and at last, in our days, Thomas Mallory, late Dean of Chester, and Parson of Mobberley, bought the Advowson hereof, to whose Posterity it yet remaineth.

Parsons of Mobberley.

• 1281. Dominus Laurentius de Cestriâ, 1281, & 1285.
• 1299. Adam Kelsall, Presented by VVilliam de Mobberly, 5 Calendas Julii, 1299.
• 1304. Johannes de Mobberley, per Resignationem Adae de Kelsall, 1304. Presented by VVilliam Mobberley of Mobberley.
• 1306. Richard de Mobberley, Presented by VVilliam de Mobberley his Father, 1306. 34 Edw. 14. Calendas Januarii. This Richard was killed by one Richard Son of Richard de Mob∣berley, as seems by an Appeal brought by VVilliam Mobberley, Son of VVilliam Mob∣berley, Lord of the Moiety of Mobberley, for the death of his Brother: In Placitis Cestriae, die Martis in Festo Sancti Hilarii, 14 Edw. 2. (1320.)
• 1320. Henry de Henley Presbyter, 1320. Presented by VVilliam Mobberley.
• 1327. Robert Son of Robert de Huxley, 3 Nonas Novembris, 1327. per Johannem Arderne Mili∣tem, ratione Custodiae Radulfi Filii & Haeredis Willielmi de Mobberley.
• 1351. Robertus de Craven, 1351. Causâ Permutationis.
• 1359. William Jeffeson, 1359. Lib. A. fol. 128. F.
• 1378. Johannes Brunstath Parson of Mobberley, 1378. 1 Rich. 2. Lib. A. fol. 130. ll.
• 1416. John Scolehall Parson, 4 Hen. 5. Lib. C. fol. 266. num. 2.
• 1439. Roger Bolton Parson of Mobberley, 18 Hen. 6. & 37 Hen. 6.
• 1460. Hamon Leycester, Presented 1 Junii, 1460. which was in the last Year of Henry the Sixth. This Hamon was a younger Son of John Leycester of Tabley, the elder, Esq He seems to have been Parson of the Moiety of Limme-Church, which he resigned 1457. See in Limme.

There was extant in the Church of Mobberley, the 28 of January, 1653. in the upper North-window of the Chancel, the Picture of a Man kneeling, and the Coat-Armour of Leycester of Tabley, in a Border-Argent for distinction; under which was written in the Glass,—Orate pro Animâ Magistri Hamonis Ley ....... ............................ Fenestram fieri fecit, Anno Domini 1492.

Supply the defect thus,—Orate pro Animâ Magistri Hamonis Leycester Rectoris hujus Ecclesiae, qui hanc Fenestram fieri fecit, Anno Domini 1492. Who was Parson

of Mobberley from 1460. to 1492. whose Father, John Leycester of Tabley the elder, was Son and Heir of William, Son and Heir of John, Nephew to Sir Raufe Mobber∣ley above-mentioned, the last Heir of that Family of the Mobberleys.

Hitherto have I traced some of the Parsons of Mobberley.

As concerning the Parsons of Mobberley of these last Ages, I find in the Register-Book of Mobberley-Church these following; which Register beginneth but in Anno 1578.

[Ann. Dom. 1570] John Caldwall Batchelor of Arts, Rector of Mobberley-Church full twenty four Years, and of Winwick in Lancashire about twenty Years. He was born at Burton upon Trent; and going into that Countrey to see his Friends, as he returned homewards he fell sick at the Parsonage-House of Clyfton-Convill in Staffordshire, where he died the last day of June, and was buried at that Church the first day of July, in the 51 Year of his Age, Anno Domini 1595.

[ 1595] Robert Eaton, Master of Arts, succeeded Rector of Mobberley-Church, 1595. He was Rector here about 26 Years, and died at his Parsonage of Mobberley the fifth day of July, 1621. and was buried at Gropenhale (whereof he was also Rector) on Thursday the thirteenth of July following, in the 74 Year of his Age, having been Minister of God's Word 51 Years.

[ 1621] Thomas Mallory Dean of Chester, younger Son of Sir William Mallory of Stewdley in Yorkshire, succeeded Parson of Mobberley, 1621. He was Parson of Davenham in Cheshire about 43 years, and of Mobberley about 23 Years. In November, 1642. he was forced (by reason of the Rebellion then raised in England) to fly from Mobber∣ley to Chester, where he lived Sequestred from both his Parsonages of Davenham and Mobberley until the third day of April 1644. on which day, being Wednesday, he died at the Dean's House in the Palace-yard at Chester, and was buried in the Quire of the Cathedral-Church in that City, aged about 78 Years. He married Eliza∣beth Daughter of Richard Vaughan Bishop of Chester, and had many Children.

Roger Tovie Curate under Dean Mallory, 1622.

Samuel Carrington Curate of Mobberley under Dean Mallory, 1623. to 1630. or more.

George Mallory Curate of Mobberley under his Father, 1632.

[ 1644] Edward Wyrley Master of Arts, younger Brother to Sir John Wyrley of Hampsted-Hall in Staffordshire Knight, succeeded Dean Mallory in the Rectory of Mobberley; Insti∣tuted into the same by John Bridgeman Bishop of Chester, the eighth day of April, 1644. Which Edward had married Mary Mallory, Daughter of the said Dean Mal∣lory, the thirteenth of September, 1642.

But this Edward VVyrley continued Sequestred hereof until the Restoration of King CHARLES the Second, 1660. and then he procured the King's Grant, and was dispensed with by his Grace the Archbishop of Canterbury, to hold with his Rectory of Mobberley, the Rectory of Loughton in the County of Essex also.

In the Time of the late War, one Robert Barlow Clerk, born about Aston su∣per Mersey, was possessed of Mobberley-Church; who married Mary Sha∣kerley, eldest Daughter of Peter Shakerley of Shakerley in Lancashire, and of Houlme in Allostock in Cheshire, Esq Married at Mobberley the sixth day of July, 1652.

[ 1664] James Stanley, younger Son of Sir Thomas Stanley of Nether-Alderley Baronet, suc∣ceeded Rector of Mobberley, 1664. per Resignationem Edwardi VVyrley: And after the death of Mr. Samuel Shipton Parson of Nether-Alderley, the same James was also Rector of Nether-Alderley, by the Gift of his Father, Patron of the Church of Ne∣ther-Alderley. Parson Shipton died 1670. This Mr. James Stanley was Master of Arts of Jesus-College in Cambridge, and married Elizabeth Byron, an Inheritrix, Daughter of John Byron of Maxfield.

So much of the Parsons of Mobberley.

This Township of Mobberley, Bigot held in the Reign of the Conqueror, under Hugh Lupus Earl of Chester, which one Dot held before.

Afterwards it came to Aldford of Aldford in Cheshire, not far from Chester: And about the Reign of Richard the First, Augustine de Brethmete was possessed of one Moi∣ety, which he gave to his Brother Patrick during his Life; which Moiety was con∣firmed to John Son and Heir of Augustine, by Sir Richard Aldford, and also by Randle Earl of Chester, sirnamed Blundevill, about the Reign of King John, as appears by the Enrollment aforesaid; whose Posterity enjoyed the said Moyety, until Sir Raufe Mob∣berley (having no Lawful Issue of his Body) Estated all his Lands, by Chaplains en∣trusted, according to the manner of those Times, on John Leycester of Tabley, his Ne∣phew, with the Advowson of the Church of Mobberley also, 1359. 34 Edw. 3. For Sir Raufe had often protested, That he would not have his Lands mangled among his Sisters, but that his Nephew John Leycester should have them wholly; as appears by the Certificate of Sir John Winkfield: Dated at London, the eleventh day of June. 35 Edw. 3. (1361.) Lib. A. fol. 129. ff. gg. hh.

Afterwards, upon some Composition, John Leycester releaseth all his Right in Mobberley's Lands, and in the Advowson of the said Church, unto John Dumbill of Mobberley, and to Cicely his Wife, 1 Rich. 2. 1378. yet so as John Dumbill and Cicely should settle 15 Messuages, 316 Acres of Land, 16 Acres of Wood, 8 Acres of Moss, the third part of a Watermill, and the third part of all the Wastes in Mobberley un∣measured [to be understood of Mobberley's Moiety], after the death of John Dumbill and Cicely, to descend to Raufe Leycester, younger Brother of the said John Leycester, and to his Heirs for ever; which by Chaplains entrusted was settled accordingly, 30 die Maii, 2 Rich. 2. 1397. Lib. A. fol. 130. mm. which was either Conditioned in the Agreement of John Leycester, or the Reversion thereof bought by the said Raufe Ley∣cester; from which Raufe are descended the Leycesters of Toft, who do now enjoy these Lands, Anno Domini 1666. about one third part of the Moiety of Mobberley.

The other two Parts of this Moiety of Mobberley, which John Dumbill had, descend∣ed to Sir Hugh Hulse, in Marriage with Margery Daughter and Heir of the said John Dumbill and Cicely: And afterwards Margery, Daughter and Heir of Thomas Hulse, married John Troutback Esquire; which Margery died 35 Hen. 6. and had Issue William Troutback, whose Son Sir William dying without Issue, Adam Troutback (Brother of Sir William) had Issue Margaret, Daughter and Heir, married to John Talbot Lord of Albrighton in Shropshire, from whom the Talbots of Grafton in Worcestershire, whose Po∣sterity afterwards came to be Earls of Shrewsbury.

The other Moiety of Mobberley Sir John Arderne of Aldford granted to John Legh of Booths, with Wardships, and Freedom from Appearance at his Court of Nether-Alder∣ley; Rendring eight Pounds yearly for his Life: And after the death of John Legh, then to remain to John Legh, Son and Heir of the other John Legh aforesaid, and to Maud Daughter of the said Sir John Arderne, and to their Heirs for ever; Rendring a Rose at Midsommer, for all Service: And if John Legh, Son of John, died before he married Maud, then William Brother to John Legh, Son of John, was to marry her. Witnesses of this Deed were, Sir John Orreby, and Sir Richard Massy, Knights; Robert de Pulford, Philip de Egerton, Richard de Fowleshurst, Thomas de Legh, William de Mob∣berley, Roger de Leycester, William de Mere, Adam de Tabley, William Danyers, Master Roger of Alderley, Hugh Clerke, and others: Lib. A. fol. 122. a. The Original re∣maining among the Evidences of Mr. Robinson of Mobberley, 1664.

This Deed was made about 1303. 31 Edw. 1.

Richard Ratcliffe of Urdeshall in Lancashire married Maud Daughter and Heir of John Legh, Son and Heir of Sir John Legh by Maud Arderne, and had these Lands of her Grandmothers, to wit the Moiety of Mobberley; whose Heirs enjoyed the same, till they sold out certain of their Tenements in Mobberley to their Tenants there: And what remained, together with the Services of such Tenants as were formerly sold out of this Moiety, Sir John Ratcliffe of Urdeshall sold unto Mr. Robert Robinson of Mobber∣ley, about the beginning of King James's Reign over England. Lib. A. fol. 122. b. c.

Now followeth the Descent of Mobberley of Mobberley.

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Argent, two Che∣verons Gules, in a Canton of the second a Cross Croslet Fitchée, Or.

Augustine de Brethmete, elder Brother to Patrick de Mobberley, gave the half of Mobberley to Patrick for his Life; which Patrick Founded here a Priory of Regu∣lar Canons of the Order of St. Augustine, about Anno Domini 1206.

John, Son and Heir of Augustine, Lord of the Moi∣ety of Mobberley, lived in the Reign of King John. Lib. A. fol. 124. a.

Raufe Mobberley of Mobberley, Lord of the Moiety of Mobberley, lived in the Reign of Henry the Third; but I cannot prove him Son of John.

William Mobberley of Mobberley, Son of Raufe, was Lord of the Moiety of Mobberley, and Patron of Mobberley-Church. He bought the Moiety of Nether-Pever from Ri∣chard Bonstable, Anno Domini 1281. G. num. 21. The Original in my possession.

This William had Issue William Mobberley; John Mobberley, to whom his Father gave all his Lands in Nether-Pever and Tatton, 31 Edw. 1. 1303. G. num. 65. But John dying without Issue, those Lands reverted to William his Brother: Richard Mob∣berley, another Son, made Parson of Mobberley by his Father, 1306. slain by Richard Son of Richard de Mobberley, 1320. 14 Edw. 2. Lib. A. fol. 124. w. & 131. Alice, a Daughter, married William de Tabley Lord of Over-Tabley and Knotsford: She was Wi∣dow 27 Edw. 1. 1300.

This William died about the beginning of Edw. 2.

William Mobberley of Mobberley, Son and Heir of William, married Maud Daughter and Heir of Robert Downes of Chorley juxtà Werford; unto which Robert, Edmund Fitton gave all his Lands in Chorley in Free Marriage with Margery his Sister. Lib. A. fol. 127. t. v.

This William was Sheriff of Cheshire, 13 Edw. 2. 1319. and had Issue Raufe Mob∣berley; Cicely married John Dumbill of Mobberley, Son and Heir of John Dumbill of Oxton in Wirrall; Elizabeth married Sir Hugh Venables of Kinderton; Margery married Richard Bold of Bold in Lancashire; Emme married Robert Grosvenour of Houlme in Al∣lostock, who purchased the Moiety of Nether-Pever from this William de Mobberley: Mary, another Daughter, married Nicolas Leycester, Son and Heir of Roger Leycester of Tabley; Joan married William Athurton of Athurton in Lancashire; Ellen married Richard Bromhale of Bromhale in Cheshire; and Agnes never married: Lib. A. fol. 127. w. x. y. z. a. & fol. 128. cc. & fol. 129. kk.

This William Sealed usually with his Coat of Arms, to wit, Two Cheverons, and in a Canton a Cross-Croslet Fitchée: Lib. A. fol. 124. y. z. as is before expressed in the beginning of this Descent.

He died 1 Edw. 3. 1327. Lib. C. fol. 103. num. 9. Maud his Widow afterwards married John Dumbill senior: Lib. A. fol. 128. ff.

Sir Raufe Mobberley of Mobberley Knight, Son and Heir of William, was Ward to Sir John Arderne of Aldford, 3 Edw. 3. Lib. A. fol. 128. cc. who gave the Marriage of this Raufe unto John Pulford of Pulford, Son of Sir Robert Pulford, sinè disparagatione, 1329.

This Sir Raufe married Vincentia Daughter of John Pulford: Lib. A. fol. 128. bb. and died in France, 35 Edw. 3. 1361. without any Lawful Issue of his Body.

Sir Raufe had by Alice Rode (his Concubine) a Daughter, called Margaret, married

to Thomas Toft, younger Brother to Hugh Toft of Toft, to whom Sir Raufe Mobberley gave his Mannor in Plumley, 1357. Afterwards Margaret married Hugh Chaderton, living 1360. Lib. C. fol. 226. v. Lib. A. fol. 129. hh.

These Lands in Plumley descended to the two Daughters and Co-heirs of Margaret by Thomas Toft; to wit, Ellen, who married John Bodon of Plumley; and Sybill, who married Thomas Haslington of the Ermitage nigh Holmes-Chappel.

John Bodon, Son of John Bodon aforesaid, sold his Moiety of these Lands in Plum∣ley to John Leycester of Tabley, the elder, Esquire, 25 Hen. 6. 1446. whose Heirs enjoy the same at this day: S. num. 2, 3, 5, 6, 9.

The other Moiety of those Lands in Plumley descended unto Cicely Daughter and Heir of Sybill aforesaid; which Cicely married Hugh Winnington of Northwich, 1444. and ever since continued to the VVinningtons of Ermitage, until Mr. Bradshaw of Marple in Cheshire bought those Lands from VVinnington in the Reign of King CHARLES the First; Thomas Buckley of Plumley being now Tenant thereof, 1666.

The Sisters of Sir Raufe Mobberley shared their Mothers Land in Chorley; but Emme Grosvenour purchased most of the other Sisters Parts: Lib. A. fol. 127. w. x. y. aa.

So ended the Line of Mobberley of Mobberley.

The Mannor-House of Mobberley of Mobberley, and which at last came to the Tal∣bots of Grafton in VVorcestershire, stood close by Mobberly-Church, where now, 1672. the House of Mr. Mallory of Mobberley standeth: But the ancient Fabrick, which was more spacious, and very ruinous, was not long since taken down: Which Old House, with the Demain thereof, together with the Advowson of Mobberley-Church, and Mobberley-Mill, was bought by Andrew Carrington of Mobberley Gentleman, from George Talbot of Grafton Esquire, about 14 Jacobi. Part of which Demain was sold soon after by Carrington to Robert Robinson of Mobberley Gentleman.

The Advowson of the Church was sold by Andrew Carrington aforesaid, and John his Son and Heir, unto Thomas Mallory Dean of Chester, by Deed dated the eleventh day o•• October, 17 Jacobi, 1619. whose Heir Thomas Mallory, now under Age, is Pa∣tron of Mobberley-Church, 1672. Son of Thomas, Son of Richard Mallory, Son and Heir of Dean Mallory aforesaid.

The Mannor-House aforesaid, with what remained of the Demain unbought by Mr. Robinson, was sold by Andrew Carrington aforesaid, and John his Son and Heir, unto Dean Mallory, the eighth of May, Anno primo Caroli Primi, 1625.

Dean Mallory also Purchased the Royalty of Talbot's Part of Mobberley from John Talbot Earl of Shrewsbury: Dated the twentieth day of March, 7 Car. 1. 1631.

The Mill Carrington sold to Legh of Booths.

There is Engraven in the Stone, under the Ledge or Border, on the West-end of Mobberley-Steeple, and on the South-west-corner, as followeth:—

ORATE PRO BONO STATU DOMINI JOHANNIS TALBOT MILITIS, ET DOMINAE MARGARETAE UXORIS SUAE,

And then beginning again just over the said Border, in the very Corner of the Steeple aforesaid,—

PATRONAE ECCLESIAE.

And so passing along to the South-side of the Steeple,—

ANNO DOMINI MILESIMO QUINGENTESIMO TRICESIMO TERTIO. RICHARD PLAT MASTER-MASON.

Over which, on the said South-side, above, near to the Little Window under the Bells, is Ratcliff's Coat of Arms, Quartered with another Coat, engraven in a Stone.

So that Mobberley-Steeple seems to have been built with Free-stone, and the Church repaired, Anno 1533. 24 Hen. 8.

The Names of all such Persons who now stand possessed of any Free-hold Lands of Inheritance in Mobberley, Anno Domini 1672.

1. Raufe Leycester of Toft Esquire, Lord of a third Part of one Moiety of Mobber∣ley. This came originally to his Ancestor (as is before declared) 2 Rich. 2. 1379. And he hath at this day a Demain-House there, re-built this Year, 1672. and also sixteen Tenenements, and twelve Cottages, in Lease to his Tenants.

2. The other two third Parts of this Moiety, together with the Advowson of Mobberley-Church, lately belonged to the Talbots of Grafton in Worcestershire, whose Posterity afterwards came to be Earls of Shrewsbury; and were lately sold away by Talbot, to his Tenants here in Mobberley, in the Reign of King James.

Talbot's Lands, as they now stand Possessed, 1672. or, more briefly, the Free∣holders of Mobberley in Talbot's Part, since their several Purchases from Tal∣bot, as they now stand, 1672.

• ...Edward Alcock.
• Charles Bradbury of the Wood-end.
• ...Randle Barlow.
• Robert Barlow, late Griffin's House.
• ...Thomas Booth.
• Hugh Brook, late Wilkinson's.
• ...John Hough.
• ...William Barnes.
• John Davenport, for Mosse's House by the Mill: A small Cottage.
• Richard Strethull's Cottage; formerly Hobson's House by the Mill.
• Hugh Strethull of Brown-Edge.
• James Stewart of Brown-Edge, Schoolmaster.
• Raufe Wrenshaw of Brown-Edge.
• Francis Newton of Knowl-Green; late John Baggiley.
• Hugh Strethull of Salterley in Mobberley.
• ...Edward Davenport.
• Roger Symcock; late Stretche's House.
• Hugh Strethull of Reyley-Wood.
• Richard Wright; part of Worseley's Tenement.
• John Hawkinson; late Bolton's Tenement.
• ...John Hewet.
• ...John Oakes.
• Richard Parker; late Edward Hewet's.
• Roger Worthington of Hield-Mill in Mobberley; and also for Hill-house.
• John Burges of Wood-end.
• Susan Grange Widow.
• Henry Stewart, formerly Berry's Tenement.
• John Fletcher, formerly Berry's Tenement.
• John Holland of the Dam-head in Mobberley. George Talbot of Grafton Esq sells the Tenement of John Strettle of the Dam-head to one Perine of Manche∣ster, 1 Junii, 14 Jacobi. Perine Mortgageth it to Francis West of London, 16 Aug. 14 Jacobi. West and Perine after joyn in the Sale of it to William Holland, 1650.
• ...

• Peter Bredbury of Lea-House.
• William Nuthall; now Richard Yarwood.
• Widow Tipping of Bowdon hath a Tenement in Mobberley, now in possession of Richard Cragg of Baggiley-Green in Mobberley.
• Peter Legh of Booths Esq hath Mobberley-Mill, and three Tenements, now in Possession of Loundes, Barrow, and Symcock; and also Graisty's Cottage, These were anciently Talbot's.
• The Heir of Nathaniel Robinson Gentleman, hath part of the Demain which belonged to the old Mobberley-House, formerly belonging to Talbot.
• Thomas Mallory of Mobberley Gentleman, now under Age. This was the old Mobberley House. And he hath also the Royalty of all Talbot's Part of Mob∣berley, and the Advowson of the Church.

3. The other Moiety of Mobberley, lately belonging to the Radcliffs of Ordsall in Lancashire, nigh Manchester, was sold away by Sir John Radcliff, about the be∣ginning of King James's Reign over England, to his Tenants there.

The Names of the Free-holders in Radcliff's Part, since the several Purchases from Radcliffe, as they now stand, 1672.

The Heir of Nathaniel Robinson, late of Mobberley, Gentleman, hath now seven Messuages and eleven Cottages in Mobberley, besides a Demain-House here, built first by Robert Robinson, about 1612. who Purchased these Lands by the Name of Robert Robinson of Manchester Clothier, from Sir John Radcliff of Ordsall Knight; together with the Royalty of all Radcliffs Lands in Mob∣berley, formerly sold by Radcliff to his Tenants here; and all the old Rents reserved to Radcliff, amounting in the whole to 23 l. 00 s. 00 d. yearly, or there∣about: by Deed dated the 19 of April, 4 Jacobi, 1606. for which he paid 1530 l. Purchase-Money.

Randle Blackshaw. This was bought from Sir John Radcliff of Ordsall, by Deed dated the eighth day of August, 1611. and is said to be the Ancient Demain-House of Mobberley, which did belong to Radcliff.

Peter Legh of Booths EsEsq hath three Tenements in Radcliff's Part, now in Tenure of George Leycester, Cookson, and the Fox-house.

• John Gleave of High-Legh, Owner of Holden-Cliff-House in Mobberley.
• Roger Symcock, lately Purchased from Mrs. Martha Hurleston, formerly Oldfield's Lands.
• Homfrey Cherry, lately Purchased from Mrs. Martha Hurleston, formerly Oldfield's Lands.
• William Coppock, lately Purchased from Mrs. Martha Hurleston, formerly Oldfield's Lands.
• Rafe Shaw, lately Purchased from Mrs. Martha Hurleston, formerly Oldfield's Lands.
• Richard Parker, for Mere-House; sold away by Mr. Robinson.
• Richard Yarwood for Bowers.
• John Anson; sold by Mr. Robinson.
• Richard Seddall of Wood-end.
• Richard Bruch; formerly Duncalf's.
• Thomas Hield of the Broad-Oak in Mobberley.
• John Strethull; late Bateson's House.
• Roger Hewet of Pavement-Lane.
• ...Henry Hasselhurst.
• Richard Rowlinson of Roanes, pro Fox-house.
• ...VVilliam Hobson.
• ...George Stubs.
• John Symcock of the Dub'd-Hedge.
• Daniel Yarwood; formerly Oldrinshaw's.
• ...Homfrey Lea.
• John Baggiley of the Mosse-side.
• ...

• Widow Strethull of the Town-Lane.
• John Holland of Dam-head hath certain Parcels of Land in Ratcliff's Part, sold away by Mr. Robinson, 1639.
• Urmeston's Lands in Mobberley, bought for Pious Uses.
• Thomas Whitchcot; late John Radford's.
• Peter Bradbury of Brook-bank, a Cottage.
• Robert Ridgeway, a Cottage.

More.

THis Town of More is of the Fee of Halton. Roger Lacy Constable of Cheshire and Baron of Halton, had a Brother called Richard, to whom he gave the Town of More: and afterwards the said Richard became Leprous, and was buried in the Chapter-house of the Canons of Norton: Monasticon, Vol. 1. pag. 860.

This was about the Reign of King Richard the First.

The Name More signifieth a more barren Ground than Marshes be; a Miry and Moorish Soil, yet serveth not to get Turfs thereon: Coke upon Littleton, fol. 5. a.

The Inhabitants of More and Runcorn were formerly Copy-holders to the Barons of Halton; but have lately bought out their own Land, to hold in Fee-farm, in Free and Common Soccage, of the Mannor of Enfield in the County of Middlesex; the Kings Grant bearing date the ninth day of September, 4 Car. 1. 1628. save onely these Per∣sons following, who now are, and their Ancestors anciently before them were, Free-holders in the Mannor of More, and not Fee-farmers, as followeth.

Free-holders or Charterers in More, 1666.

• 1. Henry Porter of More: This hath continued in the Name of Porter since Edward the Fourth: This Free-hold before belonged to one Peter Arderne, in the Reign of Edward the First, as by the Deed now in Possession of this Henry Porter appeareth.
• 2. Sir Richard Brooks of Norton Baronet, hath now about twenty Cheshire Acres of Free-Land in More, as late belonging to the Priory of Norton; and also about six Acres more of Free-hold Land adjoyning, lately bought from Crosby of Over-Whitley.
• 3. These were all purchased from Brook of Norton; and Brook bought them of Harper of Newton.
  • Robert Pickering of Thelwall Esquire, Counsellor at Law, hath one Janion's House.
  • Richard Rutter hath also other Free-hold Land.
  • Richard Dutton of Mosse-end, other Free-hold Land.
• 4. Widow Harper hath now also certain Free-hold Land in More.

Newton juxta Daresbury.

THis Town, according to its Name, is not of so great Antiquity: For I find it granted by Parcels, and Enclosures, and Closes, some in Henry the Third's Time, some under Edward the First, and some in the Reign of Edward the Second, by the Ancestors of VVarburton of Arley, before they had relinquished their proper Sir-name of Dutton; who were Lords thereof from King John's Time unto this pre∣sent, 1666.

The Charterers now in Newton, 1666.

• Sable, a Cross en∣grailed Ermine. And in 11 Edw. 4. 1471. Thomas Chickford and Elizabeth his Wife (Daughter and Heir of Robert de Hallum, Son and Heir of William de Hallum) sold the Mannor of Hallum to Sir John Nedham, sometime Judge of Chester, who setled the same upon Robert Nedham his younger Brother; whose Line failing at last for want of Heirs Males, it descended to Robert Nedham of Shenton Esquire, 21 Eliz. from whom the Lord Kilmorie, now Owner of Hallum, 1666. I speak here out of the Lord Kilmorie's Evidences.
• 2. Rafe Starky of Morthwait in Newton, Lawyer; whose Ancestor Thomas Starky married Agnes Sister and Heir of Thomas Harper, and Daughter of Richard Har∣per of Newton, 32 Hen. 6. Lib. C. fol. 205. g.
• 3. Grimsdich of Grimsdich in Nether-Whitley hath also Lands in Newton, which Tho∣mas Grimsdich (then of Hallum by Lease) bought of John Daniell of Daresbury, 12 Hen. 8. Lib. C. fol. 194. num. 44, 46, 47. And which Lands John Daniell Ancestor of the said John, had in Marriage with Jonet Daughter and Heir of Thomas Hallum of Newton, 1 Hen. 6. Lib. C. fol. 193. num. 36, 37.
• 4. Robert Venables of Anterbus in the Lordship of Over-Whitley, hath Lands in Newton.
• 5. John Starky of Newton.

Norton.

THis Township of Norton was given by William Constable of Cheshire the younger, Son of William Fitz-Nigell, unto the Canons of Runcorne, in exchange for Lands in Runcorne; and so he removed the Canons of Runcorne to Norton, about the Reign of King Stephen.

Anno 1135. Monasterium de Norton in Comitatu Cestriae Fundatur à Willielmo Filio Ni∣gelli, Constabulario Cestriae: Historia Aurea Johannis Tynemytensis, lib. 19. cap. 41. A Manuscript in the Publick Library at Oxford, inter Libros Juris, v. 4. num. 4. Where∣with also agreeth Polychronicon, lib. 7. cap. 17.

Monasticon, Vol. 2. pag. 187. tells us, William Fitz-Nigell Founded a Religious House of Canons Regular at Runcorne, Anno Domini 1133. And afterwards William Constable of Cheshire, the younger, removed them from Runcorne to Norton. Which agrees with the Deed Lib. B. pag. 199. num. 1.

After the Dissolution of Abbies in England by Henry the Eighth, Richard Brooks Esquire Purchased from the King the Mannor of Norton, with its Members and Ap∣purtenances, to wit, Norton, Stockham, Acton-Grange, and Aston-Grange in Cheshire, and Cuerdly in Lancashire, with other Lands. The Charter is dated decimo die Decembris, 37 Hen. 8. 1545. whose Heir now enjoyeth these Lands, 1666.

There is a certain Hamlet or Place, called Endley, now belonging to the Town∣ship of Norton, and enjoyed as Part and Parcel of the same, which William Fitz-Nigell Baron of Halton held as a distinct thing by it self in the Conqueror's Time, as appears by Doomsday-book. This afterwards came to Aston of Aston: For Richard Aston of Aston, Son of Gilbert, gave to God, and St. Mary, and to Randle Prior of Norton—all his Land of Hendeley, with all its Appurtenances, about King John's Reign. Lib. B. pag. 200. num. 8.

Here was anciently a Church belonging to this Priory, dedicated to St. Mary: But this Church of Norton was pulled down after the Dissolution of Abbies.

The Place of this Priory is now the Seat of Brook of Norton, who enjoyeth the whole Town of Norton entirely, by himself and his Lessees, wherein is no Charterer at all.

Now followeth the Descent of Brook of Norton since the Purchase.

This Family is descended from the Brookes of Leighton in Nantwich-Hundred; of which Family I find one Adam Dominus de Leighton, sub Henrico Tertio, whose Son was stiled William de la Brook de Leighton, and his Son Richard stiled Ricardus de Doito, in an old Deed, 5 Edw. 1. that is, Of the Brook; for Doet in French, is A Brook in Eng∣lish; and under the said Manour-House in Leighton a Brook runneth, from whence their Posterity assumed the Sir-name del Brook.

Thomas Brook of Leighton Gentleman, the last of that Family in the Direct Line, died about 1652. very aged, having Issue four Daughters; but he sold away the Re∣version of his Lands to the Lady Mary Cholmondley, 6 Jacobi, 1608. which afterwards came to Francis Cholmondley, third Son of Thomas Cholmondley of Vale-Royal Esquire, who now enjoyeth the same, 1666.

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

I. Richard Brook of Norton Esquire, younger Son of Thomas Brook of Leighton in Nantwich-Hundred, purchased the Mannor of Norton, with its Members, from the King, Anno Domini 1545. 37 Hen. 8.

He married Christian Daughter of John Carew of Haccomb in Devonshire, and had Issue Thomas Brook; Christian married Richard Grosvenour of Eaton-Boat in Cheshire Esquire; and Martha married Hugh Starky of Moore, younger Son of Starkey of Darley.

This Richard died 11 Eliz. 1569. Christian his Widow afterwards married Richard Done.

This Richard Brook was Sheriff 1563. 5 Eliz.

II. Thomas Brook of Norton Esquire, Son and Heir of Richard, had three Wives.

The first was Anne Daughter of Henry Lord Audley, by whom he had Issue Richard Brook, Son and Heir; George, drowned in Warrington-Water; Christian married Ri∣chard Starky of Stretton in Cheshire, Esquire; Elinour married John Brook of Blacklands in Staffordshire; and Margaret married one Warburton.

His second Wife was Elizabeth Sister of Thomas Merbury of Merbury nigh Comber∣bach, Esquire, by whom he had Issue William Brook, Thomas Brook, and Valentine Brook; also Townesend married Thomas Legh de East-Hall in High-Legh Esquire; Elizabeth mar∣ried George Spurstow of Spurstow in Cheshire Esquire; Dorothy married William Barneston of Churton in Cheshire; Frances married George Legh of Barton in Lancashire Esquire; Anne married Richard Merbury of Walton in Cheshire; and Clare, Wife of Theophilus Legh of Grange in the File of Lancashire.

His third Wife was Elinour Gerard, by whom he had Issue Andrew, who died young; and Peter Brook, who Purchased the Mannor of Mere, nigh Over-Tabley, 1652. and was Knighted 1660. of whom see more in Mere: Also Alice, a Daughter, married Thomas Birch of Birch in Lancashire; Elinour married William Ashton Rector of Middle∣ton in Lancashire, and younger Son of Ashton of Middleton; which William purchased the Lands of Booth of Cogshull in Cheshire juxtà Over-Whitley; Elinour was Widow 1660. And Rachel Wife of Henry Slater of Light-Okes in Bedford in Lancashire, after∣wards Sir Henry Slater.

This Thomas Brook of Norton was twice Sheriff of Cheshire, 1578. and 1592. and died Anno Domini 1622.

III. Sir Richard Brook of Norton Knight, Son and Heir of Thomas, was Knighted in Ireland, and married Jane Daughter and Heir of William Chaderton Bishop of Chester, by whom he had a Daughter, married to one Joseline of Cambridgeshire, who had all her Mothers Lands: But through some dislike after Marriage, Sir Richard and Jane his Wife lived asunder.

Afterwards Sir Richard married to his second Wife Katharine Daughter of Sir Henry Nevill of Billingsbere in Berkshire, by whom he had Issue Henry Brook, Son and Heir; Thomas Brook, second Son, who married Jane Daughter of one Weston of Sutton nigh Frodsham, Tenant to Warburton of Arley, by whom he had Issue Richard Brook, and Catharine a Daughter, both living 1666. Richard Brook, third Son of Sir Richard, Professor of Physick, died at Boughton, nigh Chester, without Issue, Anno Domini 1667. George, fourth Son; and John, fifth Son: Mary married Thomas Merebury, Half-Bro∣ther and afterwards Heir to William Merebury of Merebury nigh Comberbach Esquire; Anne married Edward Hyde of Norbury juxtà Pointon, Esquire; Dorothy married Law∣rence Hyde, younger Brother of the said Edward.

Sir Richard Brook died Anno Domini 1632.

IV. Henry Brook of Norton, Son and Heir of Sir Richard, was Created Baronet, 1662. He married Mary Daughter of Timothy Pusey of Nottinghamshire, by whom he had Issue Richard, Son and Heir; Henry, second Son, married Mary Daughter and Heir of Philip Prichard of Bostock-Green in Davenham-Parish; and Pusey Brook, third Son, all living 1666.

This Henry Brook was Sheriff four Years together, beginning 1644. appointed by the Parliament without the King, in the time of the late Rebellion: Richard Grosve∣nour of Eaton-Boat Esquire (Son and Heir to Sir Richard Grosvenour of Eaton, Baronet, then also living) being made Sheriff by the King in the same Year, 1644. The other being extrajudicial, against the Law and Prerogative of the King.

Sir Henry Brook Baronet died Anno Domini 1664.

V. Sir Richard Brook of Norton Baronet, Son and Heir of Sir Henry, married Fran∣cisca-Posthuma (so called, because she was born after the death of her Father) Sister to Richard Legh of Lyme in Cheshire Esquire, and hath Issue.

This Sir Richard was Sheriff of Cheshire, 1667.

Owlarton.

IN the Reign of William the Conqueror, Hamon Baron of Dunham-Massy held one Moiety of Owlarton; and Ranulphus, the supposed Ancestor of the Manwarings, held the other Moiety.

This Township was afterwards scattered into several Parcels; but Sir Richard Massy of Tatton by Purchase got into his Hands most part of this Township, and was Lord of the Mannor of Owlarton in the Reign of Edward the First, as may appear by these following Notes, extracted out of the Earl of Bridgewater's Deeds, 1667. by John Halsey of Lincolns-Inn Esquire.

Nicolas Lord Audley gave all his Lands in Owlarton and Tatton to Richard Massy and Isabell his Wife, about 1286.

Sir John Arderne of Aldford gave to Sir Richard Massy and Isabell his Wife, omnes Terras suas & Tenementa in Owlarton: Habendum cùm Homagiis, Servitiis, Wardis, Re∣leviis,

Redditibus, Escaetis,—&c. Reddendo quatuordecem Denarios per Annum pro omni Servitio, Sectâ Curiarum,—&c. This was about 27 Edw. 1.

Richard Dunne of Owlarton gave certain Lands in Owlarton, and two Parts of a Mill with the Pool, in exchange with Sir Richard Massy for other Lands in that Township.

Robert Massy of Sale, gave to Robert Massy of Tatton, Lands in Owlarton, in exchange for Lands in Sale, under Edward the Second.

Anno 1 Hen. 6. there was a Survey of the Mannors and Lands of Sir Geffrey Massy of Tatton by a Jury; it was there found, That Sir Geffrey was Lord of the Mannor of Owlarton, and divers Free Tenants there; among whom Ranulphus Manwaring qui reddit pro le Bronteles-Place, 5 s. 0 d. & Johannes Legh del Booths, pro certis Terris vocatis Babrinchull, reddendo per Annum 2 s. 8 d. and had also nine Tenants at Will, paying in all 8 l. 11 s. 10 d. Rent.

In the Office after the death of Alice the Widow of Sir John Massy of Tatton 6 Hen. 6. 1427. she was found to hold the Mannor of Owlarton of John Ratcliffe of Urdeshall in Lancashire nigh Manchester.

How it descended from Massy of Tatton to the Earl of Bridgewater, see the Pedegree in Tatton.

Charterers in Owlarton, 1666.

• 1. Legh of Booths, now under Age, hath about fifty Cheshire Acres in Owlarton in Lease, in possession of Randle Cadman, John Wainwright, John Ridgeway del Oake, Richard Ward, William Baggiley's Cottage, and Robert Partington's Cot∣tage.
• 43 Edw. 3. Isabell the Widow of Sir John Legh del Booths died seized of the sixth Part of Owlarton, which was then found to be held of Hugh Massy of Tatton.
• 2. Edmund Howe of Owlarton hath a good Freehold there.
• 3. Richard Wright of Ashley hath Land in Owlarton.
• 4. William Baggiley junior, about four Acres of Priest-land.
• 5. Downes of Shropshire, but late of Toft, four Tenements in Owlarton, in possession of Philip Ridgeway, Roger Cadman, John Smith, and John Clerke. These 4 pay Chief to the Lord of Ne∣ther Alderley, as held of Arderne.
• 6. John Norbury of Harborough in Over-Alderley hath one Tenement in Owlarton, and three Cottages. These 4 pay Chief to the Lord of Ne∣ther Alderley, as held of Arderne.
• 7. Humfrey Duncalf; bought of Page of Yerdshawe. These 4 pay Chief to the Lord of Ne∣ther Alderley, as held of Arderne.
• 8. John Swinton of Nether-Knotsford hath two Tenements, in possession of James Ridgeway and Richard Banks. These 4 pay Chief to the Lord of Ne∣ther Alderley, as held of Arderne.
• 9. Lawrence Barlow, one Cottage, bought of John Merriman, in possession of Hugh Manwaring; another in possession of Elizabeth Huet.
• 10. Randle Cadman; bought from John Hall of Norley lately.

Partington.

THis Township of Partington was anciently of the Fee of the Barons of Dunham-Massy.

a. Hamon Massy gave to Hugh Bodon Clerk, the sixth Part of Partington, about Edw. 1.

Hugh Bodon Clerk, gave to Aytrop de Millington, cùm Mabiliâ Nepte meâ, sextam partem totius Villae de Partington; Rendring to Hamon Massy, and his Heirs, one Pair of Gloves at Midsummer.

b. Hamon de Massy gave to Adam Sunderland all the Moiety of his Land in Partington, which he bought of Geffrey Holdene; Salvo Servitio & Homagio Ricardi Bolour in eâdem Villâ; videlicèt, sextam partem totius Villae de Partington: Reddendo dimidi∣am Marcam Argenti: An old Copy of a Deed, no Witnesses. This is conceived to be the Copy of Mr. Hadfield's Deed, of Derbyshire, who now holdeth a sixth Part of Partington, and pays 6 s. 8 d. yearly to Mr. Crew of Crew, 1666.

c. Geffrey Son of Robert de Walley gave to John his Brother all his Land in Partington, which he had of the Grant of Sir Hamon Massy; Rendring yearly to Hamon Massy and his Heirs, one Pound of Cummin, in Festo Johannis Baptistae, that is, Midsum∣mer-day, about Edw. 1. Lib. B. pag. 211. num. 3, 4, 5, 6. The Originals among the Evidences of the Lord Delamere at Dunham-Massy.

d. In an ancient Rental of Dunham-Massy, 3▪ Hen. 4.—Georgius Carington Chivaler te∣net Manerium suum de Carington, & medietatem Villae de Ashton, & tertiam partem Villae de Partington, pro duabus Partibus Feodi Militis.

So that now, Anno Domini 1666. the Mannor of Partington is shared as fol∣loweth:—

1. George Lord Delamere of Dunham-Massy is Lord of a third Part of Partington in Possession, which was Carington's of Carington; and also Chief Lord of the other two third Parts, which are originally held of the Barons of Dunham-Massy.

2. John Hadfield of Over-Cliffe in the County of Derby hath now a sixth Part of Partington, according to the Original Deed made by Hamon Massy: supra b.

3. Thomas Warburton of Partington hath another sixth Part, according to the Pur∣chase thereof made by Thomas Flixton from Hamon de Massy (tempore Henrici tertii): Rendring yearly four Shillings: Which Rent idem Thomas Warburton payeth to the Lord of Dunham-Massy at this day.

Idem Thomas Warburton hath an eighteenth Part of Partington more, id est, a third Part of a sixth Part, which his Ancestor William Son of Peter Warburton had from Richard le Harper of Partington, and Agnes his Wife, by Fine at Che∣ster, 13 Edw. 2. 1319. Lib. B. pag. 212. num. 6, 7. The Originals now re∣maining with the said Thomas Warburton of Partington.

4. John Warburton of Partington, Have another sixth Part, lately Purchased from John Millington of Millington, according to the Original Deed of Hamon Massy, supra a. Who now pay one Penny yearly, in lieu of the Gloves, to Dunham. John Owen of Partington, Have another sixth Part, lately Purchased from John Millington of Millington, according to the Original Deed of Hamon Massy, supra a. Who now pay one Penny yearly, in lieu of the Gloves, to Dunham.

5. John Partington of Partington hath two Parts of the three of a sixth Part, or two third Parts of a sixth Part of Partington; which, with Thomas Warburton's third Part of a sixth Part, makes up the other sixth Part.

Over-Pever.

IN the Time of the Conqueror, Ranulphus (the supposed Ancestor of the Manwa∣rings) held this Township of Over-Pever, or the greatest part thereof; and also the Hamlet, or Place, called Cepmundwich in Over-Pever, as a distinct thing by it self: as appears in Doomsday-book.

* 46.3In the Reign of Henry the Third, Roger Manwaring of Warmincham in Cheshire, gave unto his younger Son William Manwaring—Totum Tenementum, Redditum, & Boscum, quae praedictus Rogerus habuit in Villâ de Pever—Salvo Capitali Domino debito & consueto Servitio per manum dicti Rogeri & Haeredum suorum:—Reddendo indè annuatìm praedi∣dicto Rogero, & Haeredibus suis, unum Nisum Sorum ad Festum beati Petri ad vincula, pro omni Servitio: Lib. B. pag. 2. c. The Original. Penès Sir Thomas Manwaring of Over-Pever Baronet, 1666. Sealed with an Escocheon of Six Barrulets.

This William Manwaring fixed his Habitation at Over-Pever, where his succeeding Heirs have ever since continued to this day; and do now pay yearly unto Mr. Crew of Crew, Lord of Warmincham, one Sore-Sparrow-Hawk, or two Shillings in lieu there∣of, according to the Deed aforesaid.

In this Township are now onely two Charterers, 1666.

• ...

  * 46.41. John Swinton of Nether-Knotsford, for Radbrook-House in Over-Pever. In the Reign of Edward the First, William Manwaring then Lord of Over-Pever gave unto Thomas his younger Son,—illam Terram quae vocatur Radbroc, integram: Reddendo ad Nativitatem Sancti Johannis Baptistae unum Denarium, vel unum par albarum Cheirotheca∣rum:—Testibus Domino Thomâ de Manwaring* 46.5, Domino Warino Filio suo, Domino Wil∣lielmo de Manwaring tùnc Rectore Ecclesiae de Werunith,—&c. Lib. B. pag. 7. num. 1.

  Richard Son and Heir of Thomas Manwaring, gives all his Land in Over-Pever to William Glasebroke, Anno Domini 1320. Lib. B. pag. 7. num. 2.

  William Glasebroke releaseth all his Lands in Radbrook in Over-Pever, unto William Son of John del Mere, and to Agnes his Wife, and the Heirs of her Body, 45 Edw. 3. 1371. It continued in the Name of Mere until the Year 1501. when Robert Mere gave all his Lands in Over-Pever to Oliver Hurlebot, Son of Richard Hurlebot; Rendring yearly twenty Shillings: Dated 14 die Augusti, 16 Hen. 7. 1501. Which Rent of twenty Shillings Mere passed over to Thomas Manwaring of Nantwich, Son of Nicolas Manwaring; and the said Thomas Manwaring passed it to John Manwaring of Over-Pever Esquire, by Deed dated 24 die Octobris, 23 Hen. 7.

  Robert Burges of Knotsford married Joan one of Hurlebot's Daughters, to whom her Father gave Radbrook: Which Burges had onely two Daughters; Katharine married Mr. Thomas Browne, and Jane married John Harper of Hallywell near Bolton in the Moors in Lancashire.

  Katharine had a Son called George Brown, who married Townesend Sister to George Leycester of Toft Esquire, and had Issue three or four Children; but all died before they came to maturity: Afterwards Katharine suffers a Fine and Recovery, and settles these Lands on Jane Daughter of John Harper aforesaid. This Jane married John Swinton of Nether-Knotsford aforesaid, the ninth of February, 1659. who now hath Radbrook-House in Possession.

• ...

  * 46.62. William Beard of Over-Pever, hath part of Fodon-Land in Over-Pever; which Land he lately bought of John Downes of Toft, 1663. and Downes formerly bought the same, by the Name of Half a Messuage called Fodon-Land, from John Henshaw of Lockwood in Staffordshire; Dated 6 Junii, 33 Eliz. 1591.

  I find by ancient Deeds, that there were anciently two Places or Hamlets in Over-Pever; one called Cepmundewich, the other Fodon.

• ...

  William Manwaring, Lord of Over-Pever, gave Fodon to Thomas his younger Son, under Edward the First; and Thomas gave it away to Hugh de Stoke.

  Cepmondswich, William Manwaring, Son of William, and Brother of Thomas, gave unto Gilbert Gykes, towards the end of Edward the First.

  But these Lands came afterwards to be divided, and are now all bought in by the Lords of Over-Pever, save that Part of Fodon which Beard now enjoyeth.

  7 Edw. 3. Thomas de Cepmondswich, and Agnes his Wife, gave to John Son of Wil∣liam Glasebrook, and to Nicolaa Daughter of Thomas Cepmondwich, unum Messuagium & 21 Acras Terrae in Over-Pever in quodam Hamletto qui vocatur Fodon, & Capitale Messua∣gium nostrum & decem Acras Terrae, duas Acras Mossetae, & unam Acram Bosci, in eâdem Villâ, in quodam Hamletto qui vocatur Cepmondswich: Remanere rectis Haeredibus praedictae Agnetis: And a Fine was levied hereon at Chester, 7 Edw. 3. Lib. B. pag. 6. f.

So much of the Charterers in Over-Pever.

In this Township is also a Parochial Chappel, Seated near to the Mannor-Hall of Over-Pever, and hath these Villages within the Chappelry:—

	The Mize.
	l.	s.	d.
Over-Pever	01	00	00
Marthall cùm Little-Werford	00	13	04
Snelston in Maxfield Hundred	00	02	00
	01	15	04

This Chappel is a Daughter of the Mother-Church of Rosthorn, and seems to be first Erected about the Reign of Edward the Third: But I find not any Monument in this Church exceeding the Reign of Henry the Sixth: It was certainly a Parochial Chappel in Henry the Sixth's Time, and had then liberty of Burial; and hath now the yearly Stipend of Five Pounds six Shillings and eight Pence allowed from the Vicar of Rosthorne.

The neat Chappel, and Vault under the same for a Burying-place, on the North-side of the Chancel, was built in Stone at the Charge of Ellen the Widow of Philip Manwaring of Over-Pever Esquire, Anno Domini 1648.

The other Chappel of Stone, on the South-side of the Body of Over-Pever Church, seems to be built Anno Domini 1456. as appears by the Inscription in one of the Win∣dows of the same Chappel, yet extant, 1666.

Now followeth the Descent of the Manwarings of Over-Pever.

I. William Manwaring of Over-Pever, younger

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Son of Roger Manwaring of Warmincham, had Over-Pever by the Gift of his Father, regnante Henrico Tertio: Lib. B. pag. 2. c.

He had Issue William, Son and Heir; Thomas, to whom his Father gave Fodon in Over-Pever: Lib. B. pag. 2. d. & pag. 3. g. h. Benedict, another Son: Ibid. pag. 4. m. & pag. 13. e. f. Guy, another Son: Sir Tho. Aston's Deeds, pag. 31. n. Also Roger, another Son, whose Son William married Margaret Daughter of Roger Toft of Toft, 1 Edw. 1. Lib. B. pag. 8. a.

II. William Manwaring of Over-Pever, Son and Heir of William, married—and had

Issue Roger, eldest Son; William, another Son, whose Daughter Ellen married Adam Glasebrook, 14 Edw. 3. 1341. Lib. B. pag. 9. g. Reginald, another Son: Lib. B. pag. 11. r. And Maud, a Daughter, to whom her Father gave a Messuage in Over-Pever, which Hamond of Radbroke formerly held: Lib. B. pag. 11. t.

This William Lord of Over-Pever lived 1286. 14 Edw. 1.

Roger Manwaring, Son and Heir of William, married Christian de Birtles, and had Is∣sue William, Son and Heir; and Joan, a Daughter, married Robert de Fallybrome nigh Birtles, by whom she had Issue Robert, John, and Roger, living 1342. Lib. B. pag. 27. y. & pag. 9. I.

This Roger died in the Life-time of his Father; and Christian his Widow afterwards married John de Byrun; and lastly, she married Robert de Varnon, living 8 Edw. 3. 1334. Lib. B. pag. 8. b. d. f.

III. William Manwaring of Over-Pever, Son and Heir of Roger, married Mary Daughter of Henry Davenport, living 19 Edw. 2. Lib. B. pag. 8. c. d. and had Issue William Manwaring, Son and Heir; Roger, Margery, and Millicent, all living 8 Edw. 3. 1334. Lib. B. pag. 8. f.

This William died about 12 or 13 Edw. 3.

IV. William Manwaring of Over-Pever, Son and Heir of William, had two Wives.

His first Wife was Joan Daughter and Co-heir of William Praers of Baddiley near Nantwich, by whom he had Issue William Manwaring Son and Heir: Lib. B. pag. 13. g. & 15. I.

Margery, the other Co-heir, married John Honford of Honford in Maxfield-Hundred, who had Issue John Honford: Afterwards she married Hugh Holt, 33 Edw. 3. but had no Issue by Holt: And she died 3 Rich. 2. 1380. Lib. B. pag. 28. b. But in the Inqui∣sition taken at Chester, 28 Febr. 21 Rich. 2. it was found that John Honford the Son was a Bastard, and that William Manwaring was sole Heir to Margery, & nullus alius: Lib. B. pag. 27. z. Yet did William Manwaring by his Will, Anno 1399. divide the Lands of Baddiley between John Manwaring his Half-Brother, and the said John de Honford: Lib. B. pag. 28. a.

After the death of Joan Praers, this William married Elizabeth Daughter of Nicolas Leycester, and Sister of John Leycester of Nether-Tabley, by whom he had Issue John Manwaring, Randle Manwaring, both afterwards Lords of Over-Pever successively; Thomas, Alan, and Richard, living 38 Edw. 3. Lib. B. pag. 9. h. & pag. 10. n. o. Also Emme, a Daughter, married Richard Wynnington, Son and Heir of Sir Richard Wynnington of Wynnington nigh Northwich, 1357. 31 Edw. 3. Lib. B. pag. 11. w. Ellen, another Daughter, married Raufe, Son and Heir of Raufe, Son of Richard Ver∣non of Shibrok in Cheshire, 33 Edw. 3. 1359. Lib. B. pag. 12. b. And Joan married VVilliam Legh of Baggiley, 33 Edw. 3. 1359. She was but five Years old on Candle∣mas-day then last past; Lib. B. pag. 11. x. and lived not to have any Issue by VVilliam Legh.

This William Manwaring was stiled William Manwaring the Elder, 33 Edw. 3. Lib. B. pag. 9. I. & pag. 12. b. He Sealed with his Coat of Arms most usually, to wit, Three Bars, with a Lion Passant in Chief: Lib. B. pag. 9. I. Inscribed about the Seal,— SIGILL. WILLIELMI DE MAYNWARINGE. Which Coat of Arms he gave in distinction from Manwaring of Warmincham, out of which Family his Ancestor branched.

For Roger Manwaring of Warmincham, in the Reign of Henry the Third, Sealed with Six Barrulets; whose Son and Heir Sir Thomas Manwaring of Warmincham used onely Two Barrs in his Seal; as I have seen their Seals. And after the Male-Line of Manwaring of Warmincham failed, then did the Heir of Manwaring of Over-Pever as∣sume the Two Bars onely, in the Reign of Richard the Second, as next Heir Male;

leaving off this Coat of Three Bars with a Lion in Chief, as shall anon in due place ap∣pear.

This VVilliam Manwaring the Elder died 38 Edw. 3. 1364. Elizabeth his Widow survived, and was living 1405. 6 Hen. 4.

V. VVilliam Manwaring of Over-Pever junior, Son and Heir of VVilliam Manwaring the Elder, by Joan Praers, had also two Wifes.

The first was Katharine Daughter of John Belgrave of Belgrave in the Township of Eaton-boat in Cheshire, whom he married 40 Edw. 3. 1366. Lib. B. pag. 10. p.

His second Wife was Clementia Cotton: Lib. B. pag. 13. g. But he had not any Issue by either Wife.

This VVilliam settles his Estate, upon his departure out of England towards Guyen, 17 Rich. 2. 1393. and afterwards made his Will, 1394. wherein (among other things) he Bequeaths his Body to be Buried in Aghton-Church, and his Picture in Alabaster to cover his Tomb in the said Church: He gave also to the said Church a part of Christ's Cross, which the Wife of Randle Manwaring his Half-Brother had in her Custody, shut up in Wax: Also to the Chappel of Over-Pever, unam Togam de Blueto, ut fiat indè Vestimentum ibidèm. He left also a competent Salary for a Chap∣lain to celebrate for his Soul in the Chappel of St. Mary in Aghton-Church, for seven Years: Lib. B. pag. 14. H. I.

His Seal, 17 Rich. 2. had the Impression of his

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Coat and Crest; to wit, In an Escocheon, two Bars onely; and corner-ways, on the Dexter-Angle, on a Helmet, An Ass-Head Couped; Lib. B. pag. 15. I. In∣scribed about, — S. VVILLIELMI MAYNVVA∣RINGE. For now the elder House of VVarmincham was extinct, and devolved to a Daughter and Heir; wherefore he bears their Coat without distinction, as next Heir-Male, which his Heirs have ever since con∣tinued; to wit, Argent, two Bars Gules; the Creast, An Ass-Head Couped, Proper.

This VVilliam died without Issue 1399. 22 Rich. 2. and was buried at Aghton-Church, leaving John Manwaring his Half-Brother to succeed in his Inhe∣ritance.

VI. John Manwaring of Over-Pever, Half-Brother and Heir to the last VVilliam, and Son to VVilliam Manwaring the Elder by Elizabeth his second Wife, married Mar∣garet the Widow of Sir John VVarren of Pointon in Cheshire, and Daughter and Heir of Sir John Stafford of VVigham, about 13 Rich. 2. For Sir John VVarren died the tenth of Richard the Second: Lib. F. pag. 19. b.

The King gave to this John Manwaring all the Lands and Goods of Sir Hugh Browe, which the said Sir Hugh had forfeited by his Rebellion: Dated 18 Augusti, 4 Hen. 4. Lib. B. pag. 24. d. e.

This John Manwaring waited on the Prince, afterwards King Henry the Fifth; and he was made Sheriff of Cheshire (quamdiù nobis placuerit) 18 Septembris, 4 Hen. 4. and continued Sheriff 5 Hen. 4. and 6 Hen. 4. In which Writ the Earl of Chester calls him Armigerum suum.

He had also an Annual Pension of twenty Marks given him pro bono Servitio impenso & impendendo, 8 Hen. 4.

Also he, with Matthew del Mere, and Thomas Meyshawe, were Constituted Judges of the Gaol-delivery at Chester, hâc vice, nono die Aprilis, 5 Hen. 4.

This John Manwaring died without Lawful Issue, 11▪ Hen. 4. 1410. leaving his Brother Randle to succeed in his Inheritance.

Margaret his Widow survived, and was living 4 Hen. 5. Lib. B. pag. 22. a. & pag. 12. a.

He had a Bustard-son by Margery VVinnington, called Peter Manwaring: Lib. B. pag. 13. g. h.

VII. Randle Manwaring of Over-Pever Esquire, Brother and Heir to John Manwa∣ring, married Margery the Widow of Richard Buckley of Chedill in Cheshire, and Daugh∣ter of Hugh Venables Baron of Kinderton: He Petitioned the King for enjoying the Dower of Margery his Wife, because he had Married her without the King's Li∣cence, 16 Rich. 2. by whom he had Issue John Manwaring, eldest Son; William Manwa∣ring, second Son, from whom the Manwarings of Ightfield in Shropshire; Randle Man∣waring, third Son, from whom the Manwarings of Carincham in Cheshire; Elizabeth married Raufe Egerton of Wryne-Hill in Staffordshire;* 46.7 Cicely married Thomas Fowles∣hurst of Crew in Cheshire; Joan married John Davenport, Son and Heir of Raufe Da∣venport of Davenport in Cheshire, 12 Hen. 4. 1411. Lib. B. pag. 16. m. Ellen married Thomas Fitton of Gowesworth in Cheshire; Agnes, another Daughter, was Affianced to William Bromley of Badington in Cheshire, Son of Sir John Bromley; but she died be∣fore Marriage: whereupon he married Margaret Sister to Agnes, 4 Hen. 6. 1426. Lib. B. pag. 7. num. 8, 9. This Margaret was Widow 15 Hen. 6. 1436. Lib. B. pag. 17. q. r. And after she married Sir John Nedham of Crannach, Justiciarius de Banco, and Judge of Chester 1 Edw. 4. But Sir John Nedham had no Issue by her.

This Randle was also a Courtier, stiled Armiger Regis, The King's Servant, & Sagit∣tarius de Coronâ, 21 Rich. 2. and went into Ireland with his Brother John in the King's Service, 22 Rich. 2. He had the Office of Equitator Forestae de Marâ & Mon∣drum granted unto him for his Life, 6 Hen. 4. and two Parts of the Serjeanty of Max∣field-Hundred, which were Raufe Davenport's, till John Davenport came to Age; Da∣ted 3 Hen. 5. And he had also (with others) the Custody of the Mannor of Kerin∣cham in Cheshire, 13 Hen. 6.

He had a Bastard-Son by Emme Farrington, called Hugh Manwaring, from whom the Manwarings of Croxton nigh Middle-wich: Also Thomas Manwaring of North-Rode, another Bastard-Son, 12 Rich. 2. and Randle, another Bastard-Son, 4 Hen. 4. and also three Bastard-Daughters: Lib. B. pag. 13. h. & pag. 42. a. b. c.

This Randle Manwaring of Over-Pever, stiled commonly Honkyn Manwaring in the Language of those Times died 35 Hen. 6. 1456. Lib. B. pag. 21. e. Buried at Over-Pever, in the Stone Chappel on the South side of the Church: Which Chappel Mar∣gery his Wife surviving, erected, with the two Monuments therein, for her self and Husband, Anno Domini 1456.

VIII. Sir John Manwaring of Over-Pever Knight, Son and Heir of Randle, married Margaret Daughter of John Delves of Dodington the Elder, 13 Hen. 4. 1411. Lib. B. pag. 16. k. l. and had Issue William Manwaring, Son and Heir; Elizabeth married Piers Warburton, Son and Heir of Sir Geffrey de Warburton Lord of Arley, 1436. 14 Hen. 6. Lib. B. pag. 16. o. Margaret married Hamnet Son and Heir of John Ashley of Ashley in Bodon-Parish, 30 Hen. 6. 1452. Lib. B. pag. 17. t.

Anno 38 Hen. 6. the King sends his Letter to this Sir John Manwaring, that he de∣liver to the Lord Stanley these Persons following, then in the Castle of Chester, for some Matters alledged against them in the late Parliament at Coventry; to wit, Thomas and John Nevill Sons of the Earls of Salisbury, Sir Thomas Harrington, James Harrington, Raufe Rokeby, Thomas Ashton, and Robert Evereus, Esquires. Stow in his Chronicle mentions many more attainted in this Parliament at Coventry, 38 Hen. 6.

Anno 13 Edw. 4. the King grants to Sir John Manwaring Officium Magistri Deductus nostri Parcorum nostrorum de Blakemere & Cheswardyn in Comitatu Salopiae, during the Mi∣nority of George Son and Heir of John Earl of Shrewsbury, with four Marks Annual Fee: Dated 30 die Novembris, 13 Edw. 4. 1473.

The Parchment Book belonging to March King at Arms, tempore Edw. 4. saith, Sir John Manwaring had two Sons, William and John.

Sir John Manwaring of Over-Pever died about the very end of Edward the Fourth's

Reign; and had a second Wife, called Joan, Daughter of John Warren of Pointon, 33 Hen. 6. Lib. B. pag. 21. P.

William Manwaring, Son and Heir of Sir John, married Ellen Sister to John Butler of Bewsy nigh Warrington in Lancashire, and Daughter of Sir John Butler, 22 Hen. 6. 1443. Lib. B. pag. 17. s. and had Issue John Manwaring: Lib. B. pag. 23. b.

This William died in the Life-time of Sir John his Father.

IX. John Manwaring of Over-Pever Esquire, Son and Heir of William, marired Maud Daughter of Robert Legh of Adlington Esquire; and had Issue John Manwaring, eldest Son; and Robert Manwaring: Lib. B. pag. 19. b. & 23. b. Maud, a Daughter, married to Thomas Starkey of Wrenbury in Cheshire Esquire, 5 Hen 7. 1490. Lib. B. pag. 21. q. Joan, another Daughter, married Sir Thomas Ashton of Ashton super Mersey in Cheshire, 4 Hen. 8. 1512. Lib. B. pag. 18. x. Maud, wife of John Manwaring, being then Widow.

This John Manwaring Esquire died the eighth day of July, 10 Hen. 7. 1495 Lib. B. pa. 17. w.

He had a Bastard-son, called Charles Manwaring, living 35 Hen. 8. Lib. B. pa. 19. b.

X. Sir John Manwaring of Over-Pever Knight, Son and Heir of John, was Knighted in France, 1513. Lord Herbert's History of Hen. 8. pag. 42. He married Katharine Honford, Sister of William Honford of Honford in Cheshire Esquire; Lib. B. pag. 19. aa. and had Issue Randle Manwaring, eldest Sonne; Edmund died without Issue; John died with∣out Issue; Piers died without Issue; Philip Manwaring afterwards became Lord of Over-Pever; Edward, from whom the Manwarings of Whitmore in Staffordshire: Robert, from whom the Manwarings of Martin-Sands in Cheshire; Thomas, George, Henry: Lib. B. pag. 18. y. Margaret, a Daughter; and Katharine, married to William Son of Hom∣frey Newton of Pownall, 13 Hen. 8. 1521. Lib. B. pa. 19. a.

On this Sir John's Monument in Over-Pever-Church, I finde mention of three other Children more then is abovementioned: Nicolas, and two Williams, which probably died very young.

This Sir John was Sheriff of Flintshire, 6 Hen. 8. 1514. and dyed 8 Hen. 8. 1515. at the age of 45 years.

By his Will, among other things, he gave to the Parish-Church of Over-Pever his Black Velvet Gown, guarded with Cloath of Gold, to make a Cope for the same Church; and also 4 l. 13 s. 4 d. to an honest Priest to pray for his Soul for four Yeares in Over-Pever-Church; and twenty Pounds towards the making of a new Steeple of Stone at Over-Pever; but this last was never effected: and also to Charles Manwaring his Bastard-brother yearly 1 l. 6 s. 8 d. for his Life, &c. Dated 4 Martii, 1515. 7 Hen. 8. Lib. B. pag. 18. y.

Katharine, the widow of Sir John, died 1529.

XI. Sir Randle Manwaring of Over-Pever Knight, Son and Heire of Sir John, married Elizabeth the Widow of Richard Cholmondeley of Cholmondley in Cheshire, Esquire, and Daughter of Sir Randle Brereton of Malpas, by whom he had Issue Margaret, married to Sir Arthur Manwaring of Ightfield in Shropshire; Elizabeth, married to Peter Shakerley of Houlm in Allostock in Cheshire Esquire; afterwards to Christopher Holford of Holford Esquire, 1561. And Katharine, married to John Davenport of Henbury in Cheshire Esquire: ut per inquisitionem post mortem Ranulphi Manwaring Militis, 5 & 6 Phil. & Mar.

After the death of his first Wife, Sir Randle married Elizabeth Daughter of Sir Raufe Leycester of Toft, 6 Edw. 6. 1551. Lib. B. pag. 19. b. d. but had no Issue by her.

Sir Randle dyed 6 die Septembris, 4 & 5 Phil. & Mar. 1557. Elizabeth his Widow after married Sir Edmund Trafford of Trafford in Lancashire nigh Manchester, and by him had Issue.

XII. Philip Manwaring of Over-Pever Esquire, fifth Son of Sir John Manwaring, and Brother and next Heir-male to Sir Randle, married Anne Daughter of Sir Raufe Ley∣cester of Toft juxta Over-Pever: Lib. B. pag. 20. e. and had Issue Randle Manwaring, Son and Heir; Edmund Manwaring of Ranmore nigh Nantwich, called Captain Manwa∣ring; and Elizabeth, who died without Issue:

This Philip died 11 die Aprilis, 1573. 15 Eliz. as appears by his Monument in Over-Pever Church.

XIII. Sir Randle Manwaring of Over-Pever, the Elder, Knight, Son and Heir of Philip, married Margaret Daughter of Sir Edward Fitton of Gowesworth in Cheshire, sometime Treasurer of Ireland, 9 Eliz. 1567. Lib. B. pag. 20. f. and had Issue Sir Randle Manwaring the younger; Edmund Manwaring Doctor of Law, and Chancellor of Chester, 1642. Thomas Manwaring, third Son, Doctor of Divinity, and Parson of Weldon in Northamptonshire, living 1634. Edward, John, Arthur, died all in their In∣fancy; Sir Philip Manwaring, Secretary of Ireland to the Earl of Strafford, 1638. youngest Son, was never married, and died 2 die Augusti, 1661. at London: Anne, a Daughter, married Lawrence Smith, Son and Heir of Sir Thomas Smith of Hough in Widdenbury Parish in Cheshire; married at Great-Budworth 31 Augusti, 1591. Katharine, another Daughter, married Sir Edward Stanley of Bickerstaff in Lancashire, Baronet; Elizabeth, another Daughter, married Peter Leycester of Nether-Tabley in Cheshire, Esq 1611. 9 Jacobi: And Elinour, another Daughter, never married.

After the Death of Margaret, this Sir Randle married Katharine the Widow of William Brereton of Honford in Cheshire, Esquire, and Daughter of Roger Hurleston of Chester, Esquire: Lib. B. pag. 20. h.

In the Reign of Queen Elizabeth, the Herald made for this Sir Randle's Coat, Barry of Twelve Pieces, Argent and Gules: See Guillim's Heraldry, pag. 373. but erro∣neous. So also the Herald then placed the Earl of Chester's Coat in the Quarterings of Manwaring; but absurdly, and not right.

This Sir Randle the Elder built the Hall of Over-Pever anew, 1586. the Fabrick be∣ing now of Brick: And he was Sheriff of Cheshire, 1605. 3 Jacobi.

Sir Randle the Elder died 27 Maii, 1612. 10 Jacobi.

XIV. Sir Randle Manwaring of Over-Pever, the younger, Knight, Son and Heir of Sir Randle the Elder, married Jane Daughter of Sir Thomas Smith of Hough aforesaid, by whom he had Issue Philip Manwaring Son and Heir; George Manwaring of Marthall, second Son, now living 1666. Margaret, the eldest Daughter, died an Infant; Eliza∣beth, second Daughter, marrried first to Robert Ravenscroft of Bretton in Harden-Parish, beyond Chester, Esquire, and had many Children; Afterwards she married Sir Francis Gamole of Chester, but she had no Issue by him: She survived both her Husbands, and died at Chester 13 Augusti, 1661. and was buried at Harden: Anne, third Daugh∣ter, married Robert Brierwood of Chester, Counsellor at Law, after Sir Robert Brierwood, Knighted 1643. and Judge of three Shires in Wales: Margaret, youngest Daughter, married Henry Birkenhed, Son and Heir of Henry Berkinhed of Backford nigh Chester, Esquire, Prothonotary of Chester, and had Issue; but they all died before they came to Maturity. This Margaret died at Chester, 25 Julii, 1661.

This Sir Randle the Younger was Sheriff of Limrick in Ireland, 3 Jacobi, 1605. Lib. B. pag. 26. t. in which very Year also his Father was Sheriff of Cheshire.

The same Sir Randle the Younger was Sheriff of Cheshire 1619. and Mayor of Che∣ster also the same Year; and died 12 die Januarii, 1632. 8 Car. 1.

XV. Philip Manwaring of Over-Pever, Esquire, Son and Heir of Sir Randle the Younger, married Ellen Daughter of Edward Minshull of Stoke near Nantwich, Esq 20 Jacobi, 1622. and had Issue Randle, who died without Issue in his Youth; Philip, second Son, died in his Infancy; Thomas, third Son, survived Heir to his Father;

A fourth Son, lived not to be Baptized; Edmund died in his Infancy; George, sixth Son, died in his Infancy; Another Philip, seventh Son, died in his Infancy; Edward Manwaring, youngest Son, living 1666. And Jane, a Daughter, died in her Infancy.

This Philip was Captain of the Light-Horse of Cheshire; and was Sheriff of Cheshire 1639.

He died the tenth of December, 1647. Ellen his Widow surviving, built a neat Chappel of Stone on the North-side of the Chancel of Over-Pever Church, with two brave Monuments for her self and Husband, and a fair Vault under the said Chappel, for Burial, Anno Domini 1648.

She built also a stately Stable, and Dove-house, at Over-Pever, 1654. and she died 1656.

XVI. Sir Thomas Manwaring of Over-Pever Baronet, Son and Heir of Philip, mar∣ried Mary Daughter of Sir Henry Delves of Dodington in Widdenbury-Parish, Baronet; and had Issue Philip, Thomas, Randle, who died young all three; John Manwaring, and William Manwaring, both living 1666. Henry died in his Infancy; Mary, and He∣len, both died in their Infancy; Elizabeth, Anne, Katharine, and Grace, all four now living, 1666.

This Thomas Manwaring was Sheriff of Chester, 1657. and created Baronet 22 No∣vembris, 1660. and is yet living, 1666. Mary his Lady died at Baddiley the first day of March, 1670. and was buried at Over-Pever, in the Vault under the New-Chappel there, on Munday the sixth of March, Anno Domini 1670.

Little-Pever.

THe Township of Nether-Pever, though now divided into two Hundreds, was an∣ciently but one entire Township: At this day it seems to be divided into two Townships; Great-Pever, which lieth in Northwich-Hundred; and Little-Pever, which lieth within Bucklow-Hundred, severed by the River called Pever-Eye.* 46.8

And whether you take them together, as one Township, by the Name of Nether-Pever; or as two Towns, called Great-Pever, and Little-Pever; yet have they jointly, or severally, been severed into two distinct Fees or Inheritances, ever since the Nor∣man Conquest, to this day.

One Moiety of them was held by William Fitz-Nigell, Baron of Halton, in the Con∣queror's Time, as appears by Doomsday-book.

This Moiety (I speak now out of my own Evidences) was given by Roger Lacy, Constable of Cheshire, and Baron of Halton, unto one Osberne de Wethale, about King John's Reign; to wit, all his Moiety of Pever; Rendring yearly half a Mark of Sil∣ver, and doing Foreign Service as much as belongs to the twentieth Part of a Knights Fee. G. num. 1.

And I find Robert de Pever possess'd hereof in the Reign of Henry the Third; to whom William Son of Richard Haddlebert (who, as it seems, claimed some Property there releaseth all his Claim in that Moiety of Nether-Pever, which is of the Fee of the Constable of Cheshire, that is, of the Fee of Halton. G. num. 3.

Hugh, Son of that Robert de Pever, sells all his Birthright in Pever, which was to descend to him after the death of his Father Robert de Pever, unto William de Hawar∣then, for One hundred Pound Sterling, about the beginning of Edward the First's Reign. G. num. 4.

William de Hawarthen sells it to Richard Bonetable; and Richard Bonetable sells it to William Son of Raufe de Mobberley, for fifty Marks of Silver, 1281. whose Son Wil∣liam de Mobberley was possessed of the said Moiety of Nether-Pever, cum Homagiis, War∣dis, &c. 13 Edw. 2. G. 6, 7.

Afterwards this Moiety was Purchased (as I take it) by Robert Grosvenour of Holme nigh Nether-Pever, about Edward the second: In which Line it continued till Edward

the Fourth, about 150 Years; and at last it descended to Margaret the youngest Daughter and Co-heir of Robert Grosvenour of Houlme in Allostock Esquire, with the third Part of Alderley also, the Wife of Thomas Leycester of Tabley Esquire, by Par∣tition dated 1465. 5 Edw. 4. Z. num. 28. whose Heirs do now enjoy the said Moiety of Nether-Pever, 1666. and the Rent now paid to Halton, according to the Original Deed of Roger Lacy aforesaid.

Charterers in this Moiety, 1666.

• 1. Thomas Wood of Little-Pever, near to Pever-Bridge: He pays a Pair of White Gloves yearly to Leycester of Tabley, at Midsommer, pro libero Tenemento suo in Pever.
• 2. Peter Wood of Little-Pever, formerly Robert Cotton's, more anciently stiled Min∣shull-Seat, did pay to Leycester 3 s. 4 d. yearly, Chief-Rent: But John Leycester of Tabley Esq remitted the same to Cotton, by Deed dated 17 Hen. 7.
• 3. Hiccock's Land, situate in Great-Pever, now enjoyed by Powdrill, Thomas Deane, and Mrs. Pemberton, who pay amongst them yearly 2 s. of Chief-Rent to Ley∣cester of Tabley.

And all these Charterers do Suit of Court to the Court-Baron of Leycester of Tabley, held for his Mannor of Pever.

The other Moiety of Nether-Pever was held in the Conqueror's Time by Ranulphus, as I take it, in Doomsday-book.

This Moiety was given to Richard Pool of Hartington by Robert Morley Marshal of Ireland, with all the Rents, Homages, and Services, which descended Hereditarily to the said Robert in the County of Chester, after the death of Sir Robert de Monte alto his Uncle; except the Rents formerly given unto Queen Isabel: Dated 24 Edw. 3. Lib. C. fol. 230. y. The Original of this Deed remained among the Evidences of the late Lord Cholmondley; and the Copy of the Fine Levied hereon in the same Year, is Enrolled in the Leiger-Book of the Abby of Vale-Royal, fol. 30. b. which Book was in possession of Thomas Merbury of Merbury nigh Comberbach, Esquire, 1666.

* 46.9In the Year of Christ 1364. die Veneris in Festo Sanctae Luciae Virginis, John Pool came before Thomas then Abbot of Vale-Royal, in the said Abby, and did Fealty to the said Abbot for this Moiety of the Mannor of Nether-Pever, which he acknowledged to hold of the said Abbot by the yearly Rent of Twelve Pence, to be paid at the Feast of St. Michael onely, and by paying to the said Abbot two Shillings for Relief; as appears by the same Book.

* 46.10From Pool of Hartington this Moiety was granted to George Holford of Holford, about the Time of Henry the Seventh: In which Family of the Holfords of Holford it con∣tinued, till Mary Daughter and Heir of Christopher Holford Esquire brought the Inhe∣ritance of all Holford-Lands unto Sir Hugh Cholmondley of Cholmondley, the younger, in Marriage, in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth.

Concerning which Inheritance great Suits fell between the said Lady Mary Chol∣mondley, and George Holford of Newborough in Dutton, uncle to the said Mary, and next Heir-male of the Holfords.

These Suits lasted above forty Years: At last, towards the end of King James's Reign, the matter was compos'd by Friends: The Lady Mary had Holford-Demain; and George Holford had the Demain of Iscoit in Flintshire, near to Whitchurch in Shrop∣shire. The Lands in Nether-Pever, Plumley, and Lostock-Gralam, belonging to the Hol∣fords, were promiscuously allotted, Part to the one, and Part to the other, as at this day they be enjoyed.

So that in the Year 1659. Robert Cholmondley Earl of Leimster in Ireland, Son and Heir of the said Lady Mary, and James Holford of Newborough Esquire, Son of Peter, Son of George Holford abovesaid, did enjoy this other Moiety of Nether-Pever between

them: In which Year the said Lord Cholmondley died, without any Lawful Issue of his Body.

Concerning the Chappel of Nether-Pever, see above in Budworth.

Picmere.

This Township of Picmere is not in Doomsday-book, whereby it seemeth to be Waste at that time.

It was anciently of two Fees in the Reign of King John. One Moiety Raufe Man∣waring (sometime Judge of Chester) gave unto Henry de Aldithley, or Audley, in Free-Marriage with Bertrey his Daughter, together with the Towns of Smallwood and Snelston, and a Mark of Annual Rent in the City of Chester, of the Land which be∣longed to one Fagun: Unto which Deed Philip Orreby, then Judge of Chester, was a Witness. The Original is in Cotton's Library at Westminster: Lib. B. pag. 1. a.

Henry of Audley, by the consent of Bertrey his Wife, gave to Thomas Son of Randle de Longsdon, libero homini suo, half of his Land in Picmere, and half of his Wood there; Rendring yearly 3 s. 4 d. as I find the Deed extracted in Vernon's Notes.

This Moiety of Picmere is now enjoyed by these Persons following, 1666.

1. Thomas Merbury of Merbury Esquire hath one half of this Moiety, which for∣merly belonged to the Cockers of Picmere ever since the Reign of Henry the Third, until Hugh Cocker of Pickmere sold the Reversion hereof, after his Life, unto Thomas Merbury, Father of Thomas aforesaid, Anno Domini 1604. Pro∣bably this was that Part which Henry Audley gave to Thomas Longsdon.

2. Thomas Daniell of Over-Tabley Esquire hath four Tenements here in Lease. These were formerly held by William Wiche, and called Wiche's Lands; which upon the Attainder of Sir William Stanley of Holt-Castle, Anno Domini 1495. Lord Chamberlain to Henry the Seventh, Escheated to the King, and were afterwards given to George Sutton, one of the Grooms of the Chamber, 14 H. 8. Sutton sold them to Richard Sneyd, 7 Novembris, 14 Hen. 8. and William Sneyd sold them to Thomas Daniell of Over-Tabley Esquire, 36 Hen. 8.

3. Sir Peter Leycester of Nether-Tabley, Baronet, hath one Tenement here, now in Possession of John Perceivall; which was Part of Wiche's Lands, and was sold by William Sneyd to Gawen Legh of Northwood in High-Legh, 35 Hen. 8. 1543. before he sold the rest to Daniell: And this Tenement afterwards Richard Legh of Northwood Gentleman, sold (among other Lands) to Peter Leycester of Tabley Esquire, 1633. whose Son now enjoyeth the same.

4. John Swinton of Nether-Knotsford hath one good Tenement here: But part of this lieth in Winsham, formerly Crocket's Land of Nantwich.

5. John Key of the Yate in Picmere; Part of Crocket's Land formerly.

6. Peter Deane of Over-Tabley hath Land in Picmere, lately bought from Key of the Yate.

7. Philip Anterbus of Over-Pever, one Close, belonging to his Free-hold Land in Aston juxtà Picmere.

8. Sir George Warburton of Arley Baronet hath about one Acre and a half, in Pos∣session of Robert Deusbery and Thomas Starky of Feldy.

The other Moiety of Picmere, together with the Mannor of Winsham, William Venables gave to Maud his Sister in Free-Marriage, to be held by the Service of half a Knights Fee; whereunto Roger Lacy, Constable of Cheshire, is a Witness; Which Roger died Anno Domini 1211. 13 Johannis Regis, saith Matthew Paris in his History: Lib. B. pag. 50. a.

This Maud had two Husbands: The first was Raufe Son of Roger; the second was Hugh de Bixis, or Brixis. This Hugh and his Wife grant to Hugh Venables all the Land

which William de Offley held of them in Picmere, and the Wardship of the Children of Hugh Son of the said William de Offley, till they come to such Age as to govern the said Land. Lib. B. pag. 50. e.

* 46.11Hugh Venables grants to Hugh de Picmere, and his Heirs, the whole Moiety of the Village of Picmere, for the same Service contained in the Deed of William Venables his Father, the Donor of the same Lands. This was tempore Henrici Tertii: Lib. B. pag. 51. num. 1.

Afterwards William Son of Guy of Winsham grants to Henry Son of Hugh de Pic∣mere all his Rent in the Township of Picmere, to wit, 3 s. 1 d. ob. which he yearly re∣ceived from Hugh de Picmere; Rendring a Pair of White Gloves yearly: Lib. B. pag. 54. num. 19.

And Pagan, Son of Raufe de Wastneys, Lord of Winsham, releaseth to the said Henry all his Right in 3 s. 1 d. ob. Rent, which he received of the said Henry: So that now he was onely to pay 3 s. 1 d. ob. yearly from henceforward, and a Pair of Gloves, for all Services: And this was in the Reign of Edward the First: Lib. B. pag. 51. num. 2.

Hugh Picmere, Son of Henry, was seised of this Moiety; whose Son Hugh had three Daughters, Isabel, Alice, and Margaret, 1343. Lib. B. pag. 52. num. 6. And in Anno 1356. he settles his Mannor of Picmere, for want of Heirs-Males of his Body, on Hugh Bruyn of Stapleford, and Margaret his Wife, Daughter of the said Hugh Picmere: Lib. B. pag. 53. num. 12.

Margaret, the Widow of Hugh Bruyn of Picmere, grants to Hugh Hulse of Picmere all her Lands of Picmere, 42 Edw. 3. Lib. B. pag. 52. num. 10.

This Hugh Hulse was Lieutenant-Justice of Chester, 20 Rich. 2. to Thomas Earl of Nottingham; and married Ellen Daughter and Heir of Hugh Bruyn and Margaret, 36 Edw. 3. The Marriage and Wardship of Ellen was granted by Margaret her Mother to David Hulse Vicar of Great-Budworth, to marry Hugh Son of Sybill, Daughter of William Son of Hugh de Norbery, 36 Edw. 3. Lib. B. pag. 52. num. 11. & pag. 54. num. 21. This Sir Hugh Hulse dying 3 Hen. 5. or thereabout, it was found by Inquisition, That he died seised of seven Messuages in Picmere, 200 Acres of Land, and 20 Acres of Wood ibidem, quae tenentur de Willielmo Leycester, ut de Manerio suo de Wethale, sed per quod Servitium ignoratur: Inter Recognitiones Scaccarii Cestriae, Bundle 3 Hen. 5.

Afterwards John Troutback Esquire married Margery Daughter and Heir of Thomas Hulse, in the Reign of Henry the Sixth: Lib. B. pag. 53. num. 17.

And Margaret, Daughter and Heir of Adam Troutback, married John Talbot of Al∣brighton in Shropshire, from whom the Talbots of Grafton in Worcestershire descended, whose Posterity at last came to be Earls of Shrewsbury: And George Talbot Earl of Shrewsbury sells all his Lands in Picmere (to wit, the Moiety of Picmere) unto his Tenants there, Anno 1620. every Tenant buying his own, and so are become particu∣lar Free-holders at this day.

Thomas Starkey's Lands, now in Picmere, were Purchased from Raufe Bostock of Moulton by John Starkey his Father, 14 Aprilis, 7 Jacobi, 1609. and was originally given by Henry de Picmere unto Richard his younger Son, 1192. A Parcel thereof was given to the said Richard, by Hugh Picmere his Elder Brother, 1308. Lib. B. pag. 58. a. b. c.

Plumley.

ROger Manwaring gave Plumley to the Abby of St. Werburge in Chester, when he made his Son Wido a Monk there; William and Randle his Sons being Witnes∣ses: Which Grant, with many others, Richard Earl of Chester confirmed, 1119. 19 Hen. 1.

In the Feodary of Halton, about Edw. 2. we read,—Thomas de Vernon tenet Villam de Lostock, cùm Parvâ-Lostock, & medietatem de Plumley, pro medietate unius Feodi Militis.

This Thomas de Vernon was second Husband of Joan de Lostock, in whose Right he held these Lands. Her former Husband was William de Toft, younger Son of Roger Toft of Toft: The Posterity of which William assumed the Sir-name of Holford, from the Place of their Residence at Holford, according to the Custom of those Ages.

This Place, or Hamlet, called Holford, lieth Part in Plumley, and Part in Lostock-Gralam, and hath its Name from the Ford which runneth under the Mannor-Hall, which, because it is situate in a Derne Hole, was therefore called Holford, as if you should say, A Ford in a Hole: Or else, from the old Word [Hale], which we now call [Hall], and so denotes as much as A Ford under the Hall: Or, possibly, from the old Word [Holt] A Wood, quasi Holt-Ford; for that the Ford anciently was environed with a Wood round about.

All the Tenants of Plumley at this day do Suit of Court to the Mannor of Barnshaw, which formerly belonged to the Abby of St. Werburge in Chester, but was bought by Manwaring of Carincham since the Dissolution of Abbies in England.

Agnes the Daughter of Walthef de Plumley by Henry her Son Attornatum positum ad lucrandum & perdendum, by Fine at Chester, 2 Edw. 1. 1274. passeth the eighth Part of Plumley unto Thomas the Smith of Plumley, and to William his Son. This William, in his Seal, calls himself Willielmus Filius Ceciliae de Plumley.

And by another Fine, 2 Edw. 1. the same Agnes passeth over one other eighth Part of Plumley unto Richard Sladehurst of Plumley, and Lettice his-Wife▪ which Let∣tice, in her Seal, calls her self the Daughter of William de Plumley: Lib. A. fol. 157. h. k. The Originals Penès Manwaring of Carincham, 1666.

I find also, that William Mobberley of Mobberley had certain Lands in Plumley, about Edward the Second: Lib. A. fol. 124. y. which were held of the Baron of Halton, by the yearly Rent of a Pair of White Spurs, or Six Pence: See suprà in Halton.

And Sir Raufe Mobberley of Mobberley gave his Mannor in Plumley unto Thomas Toft, and Margaret his Wife, and their Heirs, 1357. 32 Edw. 3. Lib. A. fol. 129. II. One half of these Lands now belong to Leycester of Tabley, and the other half to Bradshaw of Marple, as you may see more at large in Mobberley.

So that now, Anno Domini 1666. the whole Township of Plumley is enjoyed by these Persons following.—

{fleur-de-lys} Thomas Cholmondley of Holford Esquire, and James Holford of Newborough in Dutton, have one Moiety of Plumley between them.

The other Moiety is enjoyed by these Persons following.—

1. Sir Peter Leycester of Nether-Tabley Baronet hath five Tenements here, now in Possession of Robert Massy, Geffrey Wright, William Ridgeway, Thomas Wright, and Thomas Hough.

2. Mr. Bradshaw of Marple, a good Farm, in Possession of Thomas Buckley.

3. The Land late Litler's of Wallers-cote nigh Northwich, three Tenements, in Pos∣session of Hugh Yanes, Homfrey Mere, and Widow Bebington.

4. George Leycester of Toft Esquire, one Tenement, in Possession of William High∣field.

5. Robert Venables of Anterbus in Over-Whitley hath three Closes in Plumley, in Pos∣session of Raufe Henshaw.

6. Reynolds of Middlewich (late belonging to Bostock of Moulton) one Tenement, in Possession of Raufe Newhall, at the end of Plumley-Moore.

7. John Hall of Norley, one Tenement in Plumley, in Possession of John Kirkman.

8. Manwaring of Pever's Land (sold to Holford of Holford) one Tenement at the side of Plumley-Moore, in Possession of Richard Eaton.

9. Earl of Bridgewater, a small Parcel, about four Cheshire Acres.

Now followeth the Descent of Holford of Holford.

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Argent, a Greyhound Passant, Sable.

• ... Hugh de Runchamp, Lord of Lostock: Lib. C. fol. 126. ll.
  • ...Ricardus de Runchamp.
    • Gralanus Filius Ricardi de Runchamp; in me∣mory of whom the Town was called Lostock-Gralam, for distinction. He gave the Town of Lees unto Lidulf of Twamlow, about the Reign of King John: Lib. C. fol. 227. z. This Gralam also sold Houlme juxtà Nether-Pe∣ver to Richard Son of Randle* 46.12 Grosvenour, 1234. Lib. C. fol. 120. a.
      • Gralam de Lostock, & Letitia Uxor ejus: Tem∣pore Hen. 3.
        • ...Galfridus de Lostock, ••ui Frater dedit me∣dietatem de Rode.
          • ...Gralam de Morton.
        • Robert de Lo∣stock: Lib. C. fol. 182. b.
        • Richard▪ Son of Gralam de Lostock married Emme de Merton: Lib. C. fol. 228. a.
          • Joan, Sister and Heire to her two Brothers. {fleur-de-lys}
          • Thomas de Lo∣stock, second son, di'd with∣out Issue.
          • Richard, Son of Rich. Lostock, died without Issue: Lib. C. fo. 228. b. c. gg. & fol. 229. v. — Agnes, Daughter of Richard Wilburham, living 28 Edw. 1. & 5 Edw. 1. She survived 1319.

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Argent, a Cheveron between 3 Text Tees Sable.

I. William Toft, younger Son of Roger de Toft, Lord of Toft, married Joan Daughter of Richard de Lostock, and Sister and Heir to Ri∣chard and Thomas her Brothers, 5 Edw. 7. 1277. Lib. C. fol. 228. b. by whom he had Issue Roger de Holford, Henry, and Walter: Lib. C. fol. 229. k. l. & fol. 231. q.

After the death of William Toft, Joan mar∣ried Thomas Vernon, about Anno Domini 1316. and had Issue by Thomas, Richard Vernon, from whom the Vernons of Haslington in Cheshire. Lib. C. fol. 228. d.

And after the death of Thomas Vernon, she married William Hallum of Hallum in

Newton juxtà Daresbery, Anno Domini 1337. 11 Edw. 3. Lib. C. fol. 228. g. h.

II. Roger de Holford, Son and Heir of William Toft and Joan Lostock, lived 1316. He assumed the Sir-name of Holford from the Place of his Residence, as was the man∣ner of those Ages; which Sir-name his Posterity ever since retained.

He married Margery Daughter of Richard le Dispenser; but died without Issue, 5 Edw. 3. 1330. Lib. C. fol. 229. k. v.

III. Henry Holford, Brother and Heir to Roger, married Margery Daughter of _____ _____ and had Issue William, eldest Son; and Roger Holford, younger Son, to whom his Father gave Lands in Plumley, 1344. Lib. C. fol. 228. hh.

William Holford, Son and Heir of Henry, had to Wife Isabel Daughter of _____ _____ and had Issue John Holford, Son ond Heir.

This William died in the Life-time of his Father. Isabel his Widow was living 1347. 21 Edw. 3.

IV. John Holford of Holford, Son and Heir of William, married Joan Daughter of Roger Bruyn of Stapleford, 1347. 21 Edw. 3. Lib. C. fol. 229. m. and had Issue Thomas Holford.

This John recovered the Mannor of Holford against Richard Vernon of Lostock-Gralam, 42 Edw. 3. and Sealed usually with his Coat of Arms, to wit,* 46.13 A Cheveron between three Text Tees; which Cheveron gives the distinction from Toft of Toft, who bears that Coat without a Cheveron: Lib. C. fol. 229. v. & 230. a.

This John Holford died 99 Hen. 4. 1408.

Thomas Holford, Son and Heir of John, married Alice Daughter of William Buckley of Oateworth: Lib. C. fol. 229. r. and died before his Father, to wit, 12 Rich. 2. leaving Issue William Holford.

V. William Holford of Holford, Son and Heir of Thomas, lived 1423. 2 Hen. 6. Lib. C. fol. 230. w. He married Margaret Daughter of Sir Richard Venables of Kinder∣ton; and had Issue Thomas, Son and Heir; John, Hugh; Jonet, Wife of Randle Brere∣ton of Malpas; and Margery: Lib. C. fol. 132. b. l. & 231. s. t. & 230. b.

This William Holford died 38 Hen. 6. 1459.

VI. Thomas Holford of Holford Esquire, Son and Heir of William, married Joan Daughter of Richard Legh de VVest-Hall in High-Legh, and had Issue Thomas Holford.

This Thomas Holford died 4 Edw. 4. 1464. Lib. C. fol. 231. T.

VII. Thomas Holford of Holford, the younger, Esquire, Son and Heir of Thomas the elder, married Maud Daughter of VVilliam Buckley Deputy-Judge of Chester, 1444. Lib. C. fol. 230. b. and had Issue, George Holford, Son and Heir; Randle Holford, second Son, who had Issue Homphrey and Richard; Robert Holford, third Son of Thomas, who had Issue John, Philip, Bartholomew, Owen, Matthew, and Bryan.

This Thomas died about 13 Edw. 4. 1473.

VIII. Sir George Holford of Holford Knight, Son and Heir of Thomas, married Isabel

Widow to Lawrence VVarren of Pointon in Cheshire, and Daughter of Robert Legh of Adlington Esquire, 1475. 15 Edw. 4. Lib. C. fol. 231. l. and had Issue John Holford, Son and Heir; George Holford, another Son, 22 Hen. 7. Lib. C. fol. 231. n. p. Constance married VVilliam Son of Edward Bradshaw, 2 Hen. 8. 1511. Lib. C. fol. 231. o.

Sir George had four Bastard-sons; Thomas; Arthur, from whom the Holfords of Davenham; Raufe, and Robert; also Ellen, a base Daughter; all living 22 Hen. 7. Lib. C. fol. 231. p.

Sir George was Sheriff of Cheshire 16 Hen. 8. 1524. He bore Lostock's Coat in his Seal,* 46.14 to wit, A Greyhound, over which, corner-ways, on the Dexter Angle of the Esco∣cheon, on a Helmet, Wreath, and Mantle, a Greyhound's Head Couped; written about the Seal,—S. GEORGII HOLFORD MILITIS.

IX. Sir John Holford of Holford Knight, Son and Heir of Sir George, married Mar∣gery Sole Daughter and Heir of Raufe Brereton of Iscoit in Flintshire, not far from Whit∣church in Shropshire, 22 Hen. 7. 1507. and had Issue Thomas Holford, Son and Heir; Christopher Holford, younger Son, married Margaret Daughter of Thomas Danyell of Over-Tabley Esquire, 1555. Lib. C. fol. 243. k. from whom the Holfords of London and Essex; Alice, a Daughter, married Piers Leycester of Nether-Tabley Esquire, 21 Hen. 8. 1529. O. num. 6.

I find he was Knight 21 Hen. 8. O num. 6. He was Sheriff of Cheshire, 33 Hen. 8. 1541. And he died about 1545. For Margery his Widow married Sir Henry Sacheve∣rell of Morley in Darbyshire, 1 Edw. 6. 1547. Lib. C. fol. 231. m. & 230. h.

X. Thomas Holford of Holford Esquire, Son and Heir of Sir John, married Mar∣garet Daughter of Sir Thomas Butler of Bewsy in Lancashire, nigh Warrington; by whom he had Issue Christofer, Son and Heir.

After the death of Margaret, he married Jane the Widow of Hugh Dutton, Son and Heir of Sir Piers Dutton of Dutton and Hatton both, and Daughter of Sir William Booth of Dunham-Massy; by whom he had Issue George Holford of Newborough in Dut∣ton, Gentleman; Thomas, and John; also Ellen, married to John Carrington of Car∣rington in Cheshire, Esquire; Dorothy, married to John Bruyn of Stapleford in Cheshire, Esquire; and Elizabeth, married to Charles Manwaring of Croxton in Cheshire, Esquire, 1560.

This Thomas Holford died 24 Septembris, 11 Eliz. 1569.

XI. Christofer Holford of Holford Esquire, Son and Heir of Thomas, had also two Wives.

The first was Anne, Daughter of Hugh Dutton and Jane aforesaid; by whom he had Issue Thomas Holford; John died young, and Anne died young.

The second Wife of Christopher was Elizabeth the Widow of Peter Shakerley of Houlme juxtâ Nether-Pever, and Daughter and Co-heir of Sir Randle Manwaring of Over-Pever. She married this Christopher the thirteenth of July, 1561. and had Issue by him Mary Holford, Baptised at Nether-Pever the twentieth of January, 1562. who became sole Heir to her Father.

Thomas Holford, Son and Heir of Christofer, married Dorothy Daughter of Peter Sha∣kerley of Houlme Esq and Elizabeth aforesaid, the thirteenth of July, 1561. But Thomas died without Issue, and was buried at Nether-Pever the twenty fifth of Febru∣ary then next following; and Dorothy his Widow afterwards married Adam Leycester of Tabley Esquire, the ninth of January, 1582.

Christofer Holford Esquire died 27 Januarii, 1581. 23 Eliz. Cook's Reports, lib. 2. fol. 50. b. Sir Hugh Cholmondley's Case.

XII. Sir Hugh Cholmondley of Cholmondley in Che∣shire, the younger, married Mary Daughter and sole

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Heir of Christopher Holford of Holford aforesaid, and had Issue Robert Lord Cholmondley; Hatton Cholmond∣ley, Second Son, who died at London, 1605. Hugh Cholmondley, third Son; he died before his eldest Brother, whose Issue afterwards became Heir to Cholmondley-Lands; Thomas Cholmondley, fourth Son, from whom the Cholmondleys of Vale-Royal in Cheshire; Francis died in his Infancy; Mary, eldest Daughter, married Sir George Calveley of Lea nigh Eaton-boat: Lettice married Sir Richard Grosvenour of Eaton-boat, after Baronet; and Frances, youngest Daughter, was second Wife to Peter Venables of Kinderton Esquire, commonly called Baron of Kin∣derton.

Between this Lady Mary Cholmondley, and George Holford of Newborough in Dutton, Brother to Christopher Holford, and now next Heir-Male of the Holfords, hapned long and tedious Suits concerning Holford-Lands, which continued above forty Years: At last the Matter was composed by Mediation of Friends, and the Lands parted between them. The Lady Cholmondley had the Mannor-House of Holford, with the Demain-Lands thereof; and George Holford had the Mannor of Iscoit in Flintshire: The Lands and Tenements in Lostock-Gralam, Plumley, and Nether-Pever, were parted promiscuously, as they be now enjoyed.

This George Holford married Jane Daughter and Heir of Charles Awbrey of Cantriff in Brecknockshire, and Widow of Henry Masterson; and by her had Issue Thomas Hol∣ford and John, Twins; Edward, third Son; Peter, fourth Son* 46.15; George, Charles, and William: Also Mary, married to William Harcourt of Winsham, Gentleman, 1629. both yet living, 1666.

George Holford of Newborough died 1635. and Thomas Holford of Iscoit, Son and Heir of the said George, died without Issue-Male: Wherefore his Inheritance is des∣cended now unto James Holford† 46.16 of Newborough, Son and Heir of Peter fourth Son of George; for all the other Brothers of Peter died without Issue: But the Mannor of Iscoit was sold by Thomas Holford, eldest Brother, unto one Mr. Adams of London.

The Lady Mary Cholmondley survived her Husband, and lived at her Mannor-House of Holford, which she builded new, repaired, and enlarged, and where she died about 1625. aged 63 Years, or thereabouts. King James termed her The Bold Lady of Che∣shire.

So ended the Family of Holford of Holford.

XIII. Robert Cholmondley of Cholmondley, Son and Heir of Sir Hugh and Mary Hol∣ford his Wife, was Created Baronet in June, 1611. and after Created Viscount Cholmondley of Kellis in Ireland, about 1635. and lastly, Lord Cholmondley, Baron of Wich-Malbeng* 46.17, id est, Nantwich in Cheshire, and also Earl of Leinster in Ireland, 21 Car. 1. 5 die Martii, 1645.

He married Katharine Sister of Charles Lord Stanhop of Harrington; but had no Is∣sue by her.

This Robert Lord Cholmondley died 1659. aged 75 Years, without any Lawful Issue

of his Body; leaving Robert, eldest Son of Hugh Cholmondley his Brother, to succeed in his Inheritance: Which Robert was Created Viscount Kells in the County of Meath, in the Kingdom of Ireland, 29 Martii, 1661. 13 Car. 2.

But this Robert Earl of Leinster estated Holford-Lands (which came by his Mother) on Thomas Cholmondley his Son by one Mrs. Goldston, to whom (as some think) he was affianced, though never married to her.

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

XIV. Thomas Cholmondley of Holford Esquire, Son to Robert Earl of Leinster, married Jane Daughter of Edward Holland of Eyton in Lancashire Esquire, and had Issue Robert Cholmondley, eldest Son, aged fifteen Years, 1667. Thomas Cholmondley, second Son; Richard, third Son, died young, Anno Domini 1665.

This Thomas Cholmondley died at Holford, in Festo Epiphaniae, the sixth of January, 1667. and was bu∣ried at Nether-Pever on Thursday the sixteenth day of January following; on whom Mr. Kent his Chap∣lain, in the Funeral Sermon, truly observed, That he was a Loyal Subject, a Good Husband, a Good Father, a Good Master, a Good Landlord, a Good Neighbor, a Good Friend, a Good Christian, and a Good Man.

This Coat of Arms, as it is here inserted, he had granted unto him by the Patent of William Dugdale, Norroy at Arms, about Anno 1666.

Preston juxta Dutton.

THis Township of Preston was Purchased by Hugh Dutton of Dutton, from Henry de Nuers and Julian his Wife; Rendring eight Shillings yearly at the Feast of St. Martin, exceptis Foranis Servitiis; & propter hanc Concessionem dedit Hugo Dutton quinque Marcas Argenti; & praedictae Julianae de Recognitione unum Palfridum Nigrum, & unum Annulum Aureum, as the Words of the Deed be. This was about King John's Reign.

This Grant was Confirmed by Randle Earl of Chester, sirnamed Blundevill: Lib. C. fol. 155. o. p. The Originals to possession of the Lady Kilmorey at Dutton, 1649. Since which time this Township hath belonged to the Duttons of Dutton.

Charterers in Preston, 1666.

• 1. Thomas Barker of Preston.
• 2. Thomas Baxter of Preston.

Rosthorne.

HEre is an ancient Parish-Church, Dedicated to St. Mary; their Wakes or Feast of Dedication being on the fifteenth day of August.

This Parish comprehendeth these Villages following (besides the Parochial Chap∣pelries of Knotsford and Over-Pever, which see in their due Places.)

	The Mize.
	l.	s.	d.
Rosthorne	00	14	00
Tatton cùm Norshagh	00	11	08
Over-Tabley cùm Sudlowe	00	13	04
Mere	00	19	00
Millington	00	09	04
High-Legh, with its Hamlets of Swineyard, Sworton, and North-wood,	01	13	00
Agden, one half	00	01	10
Bollington, one half	00	03	00
	05	05	02

That there was a Church at Rosthorne before Anno 1188. appears by this following Deed, collected by Samson Erdeswick of Sond in Staffordshire, out of the Evidences of Venables of Kinderton: Lib. H. num. 1.

UNiversis Sanctae Matris Ecclesiae Filiis—Willielmus de Venables Miles salutem. No∣verit universitas vestra, me concessisse Hugoni de Venables Clerico id juris quod ha∣bui in Ecclesiis terrae meae, scilicet, in Ecclesia de Rosthorne, & in Ecclesia de Eccleston, & in Ecclesia de Estbirie,—&c. Facta vero est haec Donatio Synodo apud Cestriam proxime cele∣brata post confectionem Venerabilis Episcopi nostri & Domini Hugonis de Novant; & ex∣istente Custode Honoris Cestriae Domino Adamo de Aldithley: Datusque est Tutor Praenominato Clerico Hugoni de Venables, Adam Panton ejus Avunculus. Hiis Testibus, G. de Venables, & R. & Michaele ejusdem Fratribus, N. & G. Capellanis, Willielmo de Monte alto, & Ma∣gistro Philippo de Cestria Clerico, R. Capellano, & Waltero Ecclesiae Sanctae Trinitatis Presby∣tero, Domino Nigello, & Hugone Filio Andreae Husbanda Ecclesiae Sancti Johannis in Ce∣stria Canonico, Warino de Vernon, & R. Fratre ejus, Liulfo de Crokeston, & Willielmo Donne, & multis aliis.

Hugh Novant was Consecrated Bishop of Coventry, 1188. So Hoveden in his Hi∣story.

But the Advowson of Rosthorne-Church came afterwards to Massy of Tatton; and Sir Richard Massy of Tatton releaseth all his Right in the Advowson of St. Maries Chuch of Rosthorn, unto Sir Hugh Venables of Kinderton, in the Reign of Edward the First. Lib. H. num. 61.

And ever since the Barons of Kinderton have been Patrons hereof, to this day, 1666.

The Steeple of this Church was built in Stone Anno Domini 1533. 25 Hen. 8. as appears by the Figures cut in Stone on the South-side of the said Steeple: Over these Figures is written,—Orate pro Anima Domini Willielmi Hardwick Vicarii hujus Eccle∣siae, & pro animabus omnium Parochianorum suorum qui hoc sculpserunt.

This Town of Rosthorne was held in the Conqueror's Time by Gilbert Venables Baron of Kinderton, as appears in Doomsday-book.

These following Notes were taken out of Will. Vernon's Collections.

In the Reign of Henry the Second, or thereabouts, the Daughters and Heirs of Homfrey de Rosthorne grant all their Lands in Rosthorne to Robert de Manwaring, in these Words.—

SCiant tam praesentes quam futuri, Nos Filias & Haeredes Homfridi de Rosthorne, sci∣licet Margeriam & Sibillam, dedisse—Roberto de Menilwaring pro Homagio & Ser∣vitio suo, & pro 3 l. 7 s. 0 d. Argenti, totam terram nostram in Rosthorne, cum omnibus pertinentiis suis: Tenendum illi & Haeredibus—honorificè in Feodo & Haereditate: Red∣dendo inde annuatim nobis & Haeredibus nostris—quatuor Denarios in Vigilia Natalis Do∣mini, pro omni Servitio quod ad nos pertinet,—&c. Praeter hoc, quod praedictus Robertus de Menilwarin & Haeredes sui debent facere forense Servitium Ricardo de Vernon & Haeredibus suis, quod nos illi facere debemus; scilicet decimam sextam partem Servitii unius Feodi Militis, unde nos illi spontanea voluntate nostra & sua in pleno Comitatu Cestriae attornavi∣mus praedicto Ricardo de Vernon, & in Curia ejusdem Ricardi coram Hominibus suis. Te∣stibus Gilberto Pipardo, Ada de Aldithley, Radulfo Dapifero, Willielmo de Mesnilwarin, Liulfo de Twamlow, Ricardo de Sondbach, Roberto de Moldesworth, Roberto de Stafford, Rogero de Cumbray,—&c.

RIcardus de Vernon omnibus Amicis & Hominibus suis, tam praesentibus quam futuris, salutem. Sciatis me prece & petitione Haeredum Homfridi de Rosthorne concessisse— Roberto de Menilwarin & Haeredibus suis—totum Tenementum illud quod tenuit in Rost∣horne de Haeredibus Homfridi de Rosthorne. Tenendum illi & Haeredibus suis, liberè & qui∣etè honorificè in Feodo & Haereditate, cum omnibus libertatibus & pertinentiis suis, sicut Charta praedictarum Haeredum praedicto Roberto Testatur, salvo forinseco Servitio meo, unde praedictae Haeredes Humfridi praedictum Robertum mihi Attornaverunt in pleno Comitatu Cestriae, & in Curia mea coram hominibus meis. Testibus, Radulpho de Mesnilwarin, Wil∣lielmo de Mesnilwarin, Liulfo de Twamlow, Ricardo & Hugone de Blakenhall, Hugone & Willielmo de Lega, Gilberto de Hertford, Ricardo de Tewa, Roberto de Mara, Hugone le Bret, Petro Chanu, Gralam de Lostock, Ranulfo de Bertumley, Selone Clerico, & multis aliis.

SCiant praesentes & futuri, Ego Willielmus de Massy & Uxor mea Margeria dedimus— Hugoni de Venables & Haeredibus suis, vel cui dare aut assignare voluerit, pro Homagio & Servitio suo—certas Terras in Rosthorne. Testibus Domino Willielmo de Venables, Do∣mino Warino de Vernon, Domino Alano de Tatton, Domino Willielmo de Venables juvene, Viviano de Davenport, Ranulfo de Arclid, Ricardo de Blakenhall, Ada de Legh, Willielmo de Mara, Willielmo de Mobberley, Aytropo de Mulinton, Ricardo Clerico, & aliis.

—Ego Margeria Domina de Rosthorne in ligia potestate mea dedi—Hugoni de Vena∣bles, & Heredibus suis, [certain Lands in Rosthorne]. Testibus, Domino Willielmo de Ve∣bles, Domino Warino de Vernon, Domino Alano de Tatton, Domino Willielmo de Venables juvene, Viviano de Davenport, Ranulpho de Arclid, Ricardo de Blakenhall, Ada de Legh, Willielmo de Mara, Willielmo de Mobberley, Aytropo de Millington, Ricardo Clerico, & aliis.

These two Deeds were made tempore Hen. 3. at one time, coram iisdem Testibus.

SCiant—Ranulfus de Starkey & Ellena Uxor mea dedimus—Hugoni de Venables & Haeredibus suis, quartam partem totius Villae de Rosthorne cum pertinentiis, & quartam partem molendini—Excepta terra, quae prius data fuit Monialibus Cestriae—Reddendo inde annuatim duodecem Denarios in Festo Sancti Johannis Baptistae. pro omni Servitio. Te∣stibus,

Thoma de Sondbach, Johanne Capellano Fraire ejus, Henrico Capellano de Budworth, Ricardo Capellano de Torperley, Thoma Capellano de Rosthorne, Willielmo de Massy, Ricardo Clerico, & aliis.

—Ego Ranulfus Starkey confirmavi & quietum clamavi Willielmo de Venables Domino de Kinderton, & Haeredibus suis, totum Servitium, Homagium, & redditum duodecem De∣nariorum annui redditus, quae Ricardus Starkey Pater meus annuatim quondam solebat recipere de praedicto Willielmo de Venables, pro quarta parte Villae de Rosthorne,—&c. This Deed was made Anno 1286. or thereabouts.

OMnibus Christi fidelibus—Hugo de Venables Miles salutem—Neveritis me con∣cessisse Johanni de Legh, & Ellenae Uxori ejus, & Haeredibus vel Assignatis ejusdem Johannis, totum jus & clameum quod habeo in omnibus Terris & Tenementis redditibus & servitiis, quae vel quas dictus Johannes & Ellena habuerunt ex dimissione & Feoffamento Willielmi Venables Fratris mei, in Villa de Rosthorne: ita quod nec ego Hugo, nec Haeredes mei, aliquod jus aut clameum—exigere poterimus, praeter exitum redditus duodecem De∣nariorum, & unius Paris albarum Cheirothecarum ad Festum Nativitatis Sancti Johannis Baptistae,—&c. Testibus Domino Roberto de Holland tunc Justiciario Cestriae,—&c. Datum apud Marston die Parasceuae* 49.1, Anno Domini 1308. (2 Edw. 2.)

OMnibus Christi fidelibus—Willielmus Filius Willielmi Venables de Bradwell salu∣tem. Noveritis me remisisse Johanni de Legh totum jus in Terris & Tenementis in Rosthorne, quae praedictus Johannes habuit ex dono Willielmi Patris mei,—&c. Testibus Domino Petro de Warburton, Willielmo de Baggiley Militibus, Willielmo de Mobberley tunc Vicecomite Cestershiriae, Roberto Massy de Tatton, Hamone de Ashley. Datum 13 Edw. 2.

Thus far out of Will. Vernon's Notes.

This was John Legh of Boothes, Son of William Venables of Bradwell by Agnes his second Wife; to whom, you see, his Father William Venables gave these Lands in Rosthorn; and they are confirmed unto him by William, Son of William Venables of Bradwell, Half-brother to the said John Legh.

And these Lands in Rosthorne, here given to John Legh, (as I take it) was a Moiety of Rosthorne; and Legh of Booths hath this Moiety at this day, 1666.

The Notes of Mr. John Halsey of Lincolns-Inn, out of the Earl of Bridgewater's Evidences. 1667.

SCiant praesentes & futuri, quod ego Mattheus de Alpraham dedi—Ricardo de Massy Militi, Homagium & Servitium Galfridi Filii Ricardi Starkey, de Terris, Tenementis, & Feodis omnimodis, quae de me ceu Antecessoribus meis unquam in Villa de Rosthorne tene∣bantur,—&c. Testibus Hamone de Massy, Rogero de Domvill Militibus, Ricardo de Bonebu∣ry, Thoma le Cryour, Thoma de Legh, Johanne de Legh, Henrico Heyron, Roberto de Mas∣sy, & aliis. (Sub Edw. 1.)

William Chanu granted to Richard Son of Richard Clerke de Rosthorne, in Fee, all his Right in one Oxgang of Land in Rosthorne; to wit, quartam partem Villae, quam Petrus Chanu Avunculus meus tenuit: For which was a Suit per Breve de morte Antecessoris, between the said William Chanu Demandant, and William de Massy and Margery his Wife, Tenants: Testibus Philippo de Orreby tunc Justiciario Cestriae, Willielmo Venables, Hamone de Massy, &c. Sub initio Hen. 3.

—Ego Ricardus de Rotherston, Filius Ricardi Clerici de Rothesthorne dedi—Margeriae Filiae Homfridi de Rothesthorne Clerici, unam Bovatam Terrae in Rothesthorne, quam Petrus Chanu tenuit; scilicet, quartam partem Villae: Pro qua, Margeria dedit quatuor Marcas

Argenti:

And so released to Richard all Covenants which had been between Richard and his Father and Wimar his Sister on the one Part, and the said Margery and William her Son and Amabilia her Daughter on the other Part: Testibus Philippo de Orreby tunc Justiciario Cestriae,—&c.

SCiant praesentes & futuri, Quod ego Rogerus de Hale Carpentarius, dedi Thomae de Massy, Filio Domini Willielmi de Massy, totam Terram meam Tenementum meum, tam in Molendinis quam in Terris, quod habui in Villa de Rosthorne—Faciendo inde Servitium Dominis illius Villae, quod continetur in Charta Originali quam sibi deliberavi quando istam Chartam sibi feci,—&c. Testibus Ricardo de Wilbraham tunc Vicecomite Ce∣stershiriae, Ricardo de Vernon, Willielmo de Massy, Willielmo de Carrington tunc Ballivo de Doneham,—&c. This Deed was made 1270.

OMnibus Christi fidelibus,—Willielmus Filius Willielmi Filii Gilberti de Tabley, sa∣lutem. Noveritis me remisisse Roberto de Massy Domino de Tatton—totum jus meum in omnibus Terris quae fuerunt Margeriae Proaviae meae in Villa de Rosthorne,—&c. (Sub. Edw. 2.)

Richard Bruncroft gives to Richard Massy, Son of Sir William Massy Knight, certain Lands in Rosthorne, in exchange for Lands in Quiter-hall, towards the Bounds of Nor∣shagh in Tatton. Testibus Willielmo de Venables,—&c.

The Prior and Convent of Norton give to Sir Richard Massy Knight, the Homage and the Service of the Lands of Henry the Hunter in Rosthorne. Testibus Hamone de Massy, Roberto le Grosvenour tunc Vicecomite Cestershiriae,—&c. This was made in Anno 1286. or thereabout.

Robert Massy Lord of Tatton, and John Legh of Booths, make an Agreement and Partition; to each a Moiety of Rosthorne-Mill, and to each the Mulcture of their own Tenants: They exchange Land, and release Rent to each other; and Legh is to hold a fourth Part of Rosthorne of Robert Massy in Fee, by the yearly Rent of Twelve pence. Testibus Hugh de Heelegh Chief-Justice of Chester* 49.2,—&c. (1315.)

So far out of Mr. Halsey's Notes.

Inter les Fines Cestriae, 18 Edw. 3. Finalis Concordia coram Henrice de Ferrars Justicia∣rio Cestriae, Johanne de Arderne, Radulfo de Vernon, Petro de Thorneton, Willielmo Boy∣dell Militibus, Johanne de Wetenhale, Willielmo de Praers, & Thoma Danyers—Inter Ricardum Filium Hugonis Massy de Tatton & Aliciam Uxorem ejus quaerentes, & Hugonem Filium Willielmi Massy de Tatton deforciantem; de Mannerio de Rosthorne cum pertinen∣tiis,—&c.

So that Massy of Tatton was Lord of the other Moity of Rosthorne, ever since the Reign of Edward the First; if not the Royalty of the whole.

How these Lands descended to the Earl of Bridgewater, see the Pedegree in Tatton.

Charterers in Rosthorne, 1666.

• 1. George Massy of Denfield, whose Ancestors descended out of the Massies of Tat∣ton under Edward the Third.
• 2. Edward Allen of Rosthorne.

Runcorn Superior & Inferior.

THese two Townships, now distinguish'd into Over-Runcorn and Nether-Runcorn, are Mized together in our Common Mize-book, and are very hard Mized.

Here at Runcorn that Magnanimous Virago, Elflede Countess of Mercia, and Widow to Ethelred the Chief Governor of Mercia, and Sister to King Edward the Elder, did build a Town, Anno Domini 916. as Florentius, Huntington, and other our Historians do affirm: A Town and Castle, saith Stow, pag. 81. Probably it was then in a more flourishing condition than now it is: For now it is a very poor Village, and seems to be Waste in the Conqueror's Time; for it is not mentioned in Doomsday-book.

Both these Townships comprehend not fully 300 Cheshire Acres, upon a Survey of the Assessors made by estimation in the Time of our late War.

These little Villages are both of the Fee of the ancient Barony of Halton, and were formerly Copy-hold Land to the Manor of Halton, until the several Owners bought out their Lands in Fee-farm, to hold in Free and Common Soccage of the Mannor of Enfield in Middlesex; the King's Grant bearing date the ninth day of Sep∣tember, 4 Car. 1. 1628. as you may see also above in Moore.

Some Lands in these Townships are ancient Free-hold Land: For Sir Hugh Dutton of Dutton, by Office taken at Frodsham, 22 Edw. 1. 1294. was found to hold seven Bovates of Land in Runcorn, with other Lands, of the Honor of Halton; which are termed The third Part of Over-Runcorn, in the Feodary of Halton: Vide supra, at the end of Halton: But these Lands were sold lately by Gilbert Lord Gerard, unto Savage of Rock-Savage, in the Reign of King James.

Here is seated, on the Bank by the Riverside, an ancient Parish-Church, Alhallowes of Nether-Runcorn, Dedicated to All-Saints.

William Son of Nigell, Baron of Halton, founded here a House of Canons Regular, Anno Domini 1133. And afterwards William Constable of Cheshire the younger, Son of William, Son of Nigell, removed their Habitation unto Norton, about the Reign of King Stephen. All which Donations of William Constable of Cheshire the youn∣ger, and of the Churches of Runcorn and Great-Budworth, and many other things, Henry the Second confirms to the Canons of Runcorn, as you may see the Charter in Monasticon, Vol. 2. pag. 186. Ratified also by the Charter of Edward the Third, wherein he Confirms Donationem, quam Hugo de Duttona Filius Hugonis de Duttona fecit per Chartam suam praedictis Canonicis de duobus Solidis & octo Denariis de redditu de Puls∣eya—ac de Terra de Frodsham cum pertinentiis; & de Terra de Pulles-eya, cum Ca∣pella, & tota Terra Assartata, & Pastura ad sexaginta animalia ibidem, ante Publicationem Statuti praedicti de Terris ad manum mortuam non ponendis editi. Datum apud Glocester, 30 die Augusti, 3 Edw. 3.

See more of the Priory of Norton, of the Order of St. Augustine, supra, in Norton.

The Church of Runcorn seems to be before the Norman Conquest: For we read in the ancient Roll, That Nigell Baron of Halton gave the Church of Runcorn to Wolfaith a Priest his Brother, in the Reign of the Conqueror.

This Church hath now for its Patron Christ-Church College in Oxford: For after the Statute of Dissolution of Abbies, Henry the Eighth gave the Rectory of Runcorn, and the Rectory of Great-Budworth in Cheshire, unto Christ-Church in Oxford, by speci∣al Grant, dated 11 die Decembris, 38 Hen. 8. which before belonged to the Priory of Norton.

This Parish comprehendeth these Villages following, over and besides the Pa∣rochial-Chappelries of Daresbery and Aston juxta Sutton, within the same; which see in their due Places.

	The Mize.
	l.	s.	d.
Weston	00	11	01
Runcorn Superior & Inferior	01	01	04
Clifton, now Rock-Savage	00	08	00
Halton	01	02	06
Norton	00	12	00
Stockham	00	08	00
	04	02	11

Sale.

SAle is not in the Record of Doomsday-book. The Town of Sale is of the Fee of Halton; for we read in the Feodary of Halton, sub Edw. 2.—

Dominus Petrus de Warburton tenet Villam de Sale pro decima parte Feodi Militis. Here is Seated the ancient Family of the Massies of Sale, which branched out from the Massies Barons of Dunham-Massy about the Reign of King John: For I find Richard Massy, Son of Robert Massy, possessed of Lands in Sale under Henry the Third; which Robert was younger Son of Hamon Massy Baron of Dunham-Massy: And this Family of Massy of Sale is still continuing, 1666.

In the Offices of Massy of Sale he is found to hold the Moiety of Sale of Warburton of Arley; and some of them have been Ward unto Warburton: but Wardships are now taken off by Statute, Anno 12 Car. 2. cap. 24.

And as Massy was possessed of one Moiety, so the other Lands in Sale are possessed at this day, 1666. by these Persons following.

1. Edward Holt of Sale, whose Lands in Sale his Ancestor John Holt, Son of Robert, Base Son of Geffrey de Holt, had in Marriage with Ellen Daughter and Heir of Thomas Sale of Sale, 21 Rich. 2. 1397. Lib. C. fol. 273. a. b. The Originals in possession of Edward Holt of Sale, 1666.

2. The Lord Delamere of Dunham-Massy hath seven Tenements in Sale. These were Parcel of Holt's Lands, and were purchased by S^r George Booth of Dunham-Massy from Thomas Holt of Whickleswick in Lancashire, and Randle Holt his Son, 4 Augusti, 2 Jacobi, 1604. being then twelve Messuages and Cottages, with 4 d. Rent yearly issuing out of the Lands in Sale then in the Tenure of George Massy; and also 4 d. Rent then issuing out of Thomas Wrenshaw's Tenement, now the Lands of Sir Edward Moseley of Howesend in Lancashire, late deceased: Lib. C. fol. 273. c.

3. Geffrey Cartwright Gentleman. His Lands in Sale were formerly bought from Massy of Sale.

4. William Williamson of Sale.

5. Richard Wrenshaw of Sale.

6. The Lands of Sir Edward Moseley lately deceased; to wit, five Messuages and Cottages in Sale, now in Lease; and pays 4 d. Chief-Rent yearly to Mr. Massy of Sale.

7. Mr. Gerard of Riddings in Timperley, three small Cottages in Sale, now in Lease, late Vawdrey's Land.

8. Edward Legh of Baggilegh Esquire, hath one small Cottage in Sale, now in Lease.

9. Robert Tatton of Wittenshaw Esquire, hath certain Land in Sale, now in Lease, and and pays 3 s. 4 d. yearly Rent to Mr. Massy of Sale.

10. James Wrenshaw of Limme, one Tenement in Sale, now Leased to Thomas Davys.

So that it seems Massy of Sale had anciently one Moiety of Sale, and Holt another Moiety, though now scattered as aforesaid: For these other Parcels came some from the one, and some from the other, originally.

Stockham.

THis Township of Stockham belonged to the Priory of Norton, and was Purcha∣sed from the King by Richard Brooke Esquire, 37 Hen. 8. 1545▪ with Norton, and other Lands also; whose Posterity enjoyeth the same at this day, 1666. See in Norton supra.

In Stockham is no Charterer at all.

Stretton.

THis Township of Stretton hath for long time belonged to the Starkeys,* 49.3 since the Reign of Henry the Second: For Roger Fitz-Alured granted Stretton to Richard Starkey, and his Heirs; To hold as freely, as any of the said Richard's Ancestors ever held the same; for the Service of the tenth part of a Knights Fee: Lib. C. fol. 135. a. This was was the Reign of King John.

This Roger Fitz-Alfred's Daughter and Heir, called Agnes, married Adam de Dutton the Ancestor of Warburton of Arley.

Wherefore in the Feodary of Halton under Edw. 2. we read,—Dominus Petrus de Warburton tenet Villam de Stretton, pro decima parte unius Feodi Militis.

So that it should seem to be held originally from the Baron of Halton: But I find it not mentioned in Doomsday-book; probably it was then Waste.

And Sir Geffrey de Warburton released unto Thomas Starkey of Stretton, and to his Heirs, all his Claim in Villa de Stretton, ceu in aliqua Parcella ejusdem, ut de Wardis, Maritagiis, Releviis, Escaetis, Homagiis, aut Servitiis, quae praedictus Thomas aut Ante∣cessores sui mihi, seu Antecessoribus meis, facere solebant: Datum 4 die Aprilis, 5 Rich. 2. (1382.) Yet notwithstanding the said Thomas and his Heirs shall pay yearly to the said Sir Geffrey, and his Heirs, one Pair of White Gloves on Easter-day, for all Ser∣vice: Lib. C. fol. 134. a. The Original hereof was in possession of Starkey of Stret∣ton, of the Lower-Hall, 1650. Sealed with Warburton's Proper Coat of Arms,* 49.4 which he assumed upon taking the Sir-name of Warburton, to wit, Two Cheverons, and in a Canton, a Mollet; inscribed about the Seal,—SIGILL. GALFRIDI DE WARBUR∣TON. Sundry of the like I have seen to Deeds of Edward the Third's Time.

The Starkeys of Stretton branched into two Families here in Stretton long time ago: The Lower-Hall, and the Over-Hall.

Starkey of Over-Hall in Stretton is descended of a younger Son of Starkey of the Lower-Hall, and branched out first about 16 Edw. 1. 1287. Lib. C. fol. 135. c. f. & 134. h. k. Randle Starkey, the first of the Family of the Over-Hall, being younger Brother to Ri∣chard Starkey of the Nether-Hall Lord of Stretton, living both 3 Edw. 2. 1309.

So that Starkey of the Lower-Hall is the Original Root, and Lord of the Mannor of Stretton; but now lately in our days hath sold a good Parcel of the Demain of the Lower-Hall, called Mosse-wood, unto Raufe Jackson of Crowley; whose Son Thomas Jackson, now of Mosse-wood, 1665. enjoyeth the same.

Also one George Webster, alias Bromfield, hath lately bought another Parcel of the Demain of Lower-Hall.

And William Southern, late of Hatton, hath bought several Tenements in Stretton

from Starkey of the Lower-Hall: So that this ancient Family* 49.5 is now languishing, from when also branched the Starkey's of Wrenbury, and the Starkeys of Olton in Che∣shire, and other Families, originally.

In this Town of Stretton is an ancient Chappel of Ease, within the Parish of Great-Budworth, called Stretton-Chappel; but it is now very ruinous, and in decay, 1666.

Sutton juxta Frodsham.

SUtton nigh Frodsham is not mentioned in Doomsday-book: It is of the Fee of Halton.

Adam de Dutton, younger Son of Hugh Dutton of Dutton, and And Ancestor to War∣burton of Arley, was possessed of this Township in the Reign of Richard the First; whose Heirs enjoy the same at this day, 1666.

This Adam dedit Deo, & ad Constructionem Ecclesiae Beatae Mariae de Norton, & Cano∣nicis ibidem Deo servientibus, three Shillings yearly Rent, issuing out of his Mill in Sutton juxta Halton;—and after his own Life, the Mill of Sutton entirely: To which Deed Roger Constable of Cheshire is Witness, who died 1211. 13 Johannis Regis. This Deed, with many others which belonged to the Priory of Norton, I found Copied out in an old long Parchment Roll, among the Evidences of Dutton of Dutton, 1665. of an ancient Character.

In the Feodary of Halton under Edw. 2.—Galfridus de Warburton tenet Villam de Sutton, pro quinta parte unius Feodi Militis. But others read, Pro quarta parte.

Die Martis proxime ante Festum Ascensionis Domini, 4 Edw. 2. coram Pagano Tybotot Justiciario Cestriae—Inter Galfridum Filium Petri de Dutton querentem, & Petrum de Dutton deforciantem, de Manerio de Sutton, cum pertinentiis—Habendum dicto Galfrido, & Haeredibus Masculis de Corpore suo,—&c.

In this Township there is no Charterer at all, 1666.

Nether-Tabley.

THis Village of Nether-Tabley, sometimes in old Deeds stiled Little-Tabley, and in the Record of Doomsday-book written Stabley, is bounded on the North-side with Over-Tabley, and on the South-side thereof is severed from Plumley with a little Brook, called Benstall-Brook, which at last falleth in with Waterles-River, before it be run quite past Nether-Tabley, and so passeth on towards Winsham.

In the Reign of William the Conqueror one Gozeline held this Township under Hugh Earl of Chester, sirnamed Lupus; which one Ostebrand held before, & liber homo fuit: ibi duae Bovatae Terrae Geldabiles: Terra est dimidia Caruca: Wasta fuit & est: So run the Words of Doomsday-book.

Afterwards Adam de Dutton seems to be possessed hereof towards the end of Henry the Second's Reign;* 49.6 to hold of the Prior of St. John of Hierusalem in England, by the yearly Rent of Sixpence at the Feast of St. Michael the Archangel, for all Service: Which Tenure is found in all the Offices of my Ancestors, which I have hitherto seen; and the Rent of Six Pence is yet at this day paid to the King, by virtue of the Statute of the Dissolution of that Priory, 32 Hen. 8. cap. 24.

This Adam de Dutton was younger Son of Hugh Dutton of Dutton in Cheshire, and li∣neal Ancestor to Warburton of Arley; whose Posterity living at Warburton in the Reign of Edward the Second, were sirnamed de Warburton from the Place of their Residence, according to the manner of those Ages; which Sir-name they have ever since re∣tained.

Geffrey Dutton, Son of Geffrey, Son of Adam Dutton aforesaid, gave this Township to Margaret his Daughter, and to her Heirs, about the very end of the Reign of Hen∣ry the Third, in these Words,—I. num. 1.

SCiant praesentes & futuri, quod ego Galfridus de Dutton dedi & concessi & hac praesenti Charta mea confirmavi Margaretae Filiae meae, pro Homagio & Servitio suo totam Villam meam, quae vocatur Parva-Tabley, sine ullo retenemento; cum Homagiis & Servitiis, cum Villenagiis, cum Boscis, cum Planis, cum Pratis, & Pascuis, cum Moris & Marciscis, cum Aquis & Molendinis, cum Viis & Semitis, cum omnibus locis praedictae Villae pertinentibus: Tenendam & habendam sibi Margaretae, & Haeredibus suis, de me Galfrido & Haeredibus meis, liberè, quietè, & pacificè, cum omnibus libertatibus & Aysiamentis praedictae Villae pertinentibus: Faciendo inde mihi forinsecum Servitium, quantum pertinet ad duas Bovatas Terrae, unde triginta Bovatae Terrae faciunt Feodum unius Militis; & faciendo Servitium de Hauthoner* 50.1 quantum pertinet ad praedictam Villam; pro omni seculari servitio, consu∣etudine, & demanda, mihi & Haeredibus meis pertinente. Et ego Galfridus & Haeredes mei praedictam Villam, ut praedictum est, praedictae Margaretae & Haeredibus suis, contra omnes homines & foeminas in perpetuum Warrantizabimus. Et ad majorem hujus rei secu∣ritatem huic praesenti scripto Sigillum apposui meum. Hiis Testibus, Domino Thoma de Dut∣ton, Domino Galfrido de Dutton, Hugone de Limme, Thoma Fratre ejus, Ricardo de Aston, Rogero de Toft, Willielmo de Waleton, & multis aliis.

The Seal is,—A Mans Arm in a Maunch or Loose Sleeve, with a Flower de Luce in his Hand; written about,—SIGILLUM GALFRIDI DE DUTTON, in a Roundlet, not in an Escocheon.

This Margaret Dutton first married Robert de Denbigh, but had no Issue by him. After she married Nicolas de Leycester, about 1276. by whom she had Issue; and to whose succeeding Progeny the Manor of Nether-Tabley still belongeth at this day, 1666.

This Nicolas Leycester had also by Margaret the Manors of Wethale and Hield, both situate in Aston nigh Great-Budworth, which his Heirs also enjoy at this present. R. num. 3. I. num. 91.

He was afterwards Sir Nicolas Leycester Knight, so stiled 1292. 20 Edw. 1. I. num. 98.

In this Township is not any Charterer at all: For the Free-hold of Heart of Ne∣ther-Tabley, and some others, were all bought out in the Reign of Edward the Third, by Roger Leycester, Son of Sir Nicolas and Margaret, and so made this Township en∣tirely his own; since which time it hath so continued, and is now entire, without any Charterer at all, 1666.

Now followeth the Genealogie of the Leycesters of Tabley, exactly proved out of the Evidences of this Family; and the Originals quoted all along, as they now stand marked.

I. Sir Nicolas Leycester Knight was sometime Seneschal to Henry Lacy Earl of Lin∣coln and Constable of Cheshire: G. num. 24. He married Margaret the Widow of Robert de Denbigh, and Daughter of Geffrey Dutton Ancestor to Warburton of Arley, about the Year of Christ 1276. 5 Edw. 1. by whom he had Issue Roger Leycester, Son and Heir; and John Leycester, Vicar of Walleysey in Wirrall, 1312. 6 Edw. 2. F. num. 101. I. num. 2, 3.

He had by this Margaret his Wife the Township of Nether-Tabley, and the Manors of Wethale and Hield in Aston nigh Great-Budworth: I. num. 1. R. num. 3. I. num. 91.

Anno 1292. 20 Edw. 1. I find him stiled Knight: I. num. 98. And he had Lands in Adwick near Doncaster in Yorkshire: I. num. 95, 96, 97. and also in Wath near Ad∣wick, 22 Edw. 1. I. num. 5.

Sir Nicolas Leycester died 23 Edw. 1. 1295.

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

II. Roger Leycester, Son and Heir of Sir Nicolas and Margaret, lived constantly at his Manor of Wethale in Aston nigh Picmere; to whom Peter Dut∣ton, Son of Geffrey, released all his Right and Claim in Nether-Tabley, Wethale, and Hield, 24 Edw. 1. 1296. I. num. 6. I find this Peter Dutton stiled Knight, 25 Edw. 1. 1297. I. num. 7.

He bought out all the Freeholders or Charte∣rers in Nether-Tabley, the principal whereof was that of William Heart of Nether-Tabley; and so made that Township entirely his own: I. num. 38. & num. 60. & num. 43.

Anno Christi 1296. he had the third part of Over-Tabley cum Sudlow, by the Grant of Sir John Grey, Son of Sir Reginald Grey, and which Sir John Grey had of the Grant of William de Tabley Lord of Over-Tabley and Knotsford: F. num. 1.

This Roger married Isabel Daughter of _____ _____ and had Issue Nicolas Leycester, Son and Heir; Roger Leycester; and Margaret, married to Adam de Moldesworth, 17 Edw. 2. 1323. Which Adam was Sheriff of Flint 5 Edw. 3. I. num. 60. & num. 83. Lib. C. fol. 206. c. & fol. 207. i.

His Seal of Arms was,—A Fesse between three Flower de Luces; inscribed about thus,—SIGIL∣LUM SECRETUM. I. num. 26. and many others. Sub Anno Domini 1325.

Roger Leycester died about 1349. and survived his Father fifty three years.

III. Nicolas Leycester, Son and Heir of Roger, had to Wife Mary Daughter of Wil∣liam Mobberley de Mobberley, and one of the Sisters and Co-heirs to Sir Raufe Mobberley; married about 15 Edw. 2. 1322. R. num. 23. and had Issue John Leycester, Son and Heir; Raufe Leycester, younger Son, from whom the Leycesters of Toft in this Hundred of Bucklow; and Elizabeth, the second Wife of William Manwaring of Over-Pever, the Elder, from whom are descended the Manwarings of Over-Pever. She was Widow 38 Edw. 3. 1364. and was living 6 Hen. 4. 1404. S. num. 2. I. num. 68. Lib. C. fol. 126. KK. II. Lib. B. pag. 9. h.

Nicolas Leycester died 1349. 23 Edw. 3. Lib. A. fol. 127. y. For he survived his Father very little, if he died not before him.

IV. John Leycester of Nether-Tabley, Son and Heir of Nicolas and Mary, served in the Wars of France under John of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster, 1373. 47 Edw. 3. of whose Puissant Army our Histories do make mention. Walsingham tells us, That when he enter'd France at Calice, triginta & amplius millia Equorum in Comitatu habue∣rat: But of these thirty thousand Horse, very few were brought alive to Burdeaux, being starved for want of Victuals; so that this Voyage proved unsuccessful.

It appears by the Account of this John Leycester, before John Tilly Clerk, and other Auditors of Sir Thomas Felton (who was at that time Judge of Chester) dated at Southampton on the Eve of St. John, 49 Edw. 3. 1375. where he accounted for 266l. 13s. 4d. allowed unto him for the Payment of Jenkyn Mobberley Esquire, and other Soldiers, who served under the said John Leycester, and also for his own Pay, that he had allowed for himself for 210 days Pay, beginning on St. Michael's day, 47 Edw. 3. to the first of May then next following, at 3 s. per diem, 31l. 10s. 00d.

And there was also pardoned unto him, remaining of his Account, the Sum of 38l. 10s. 00d. which I conceive was for a Reward or Gratuity: Whereupon he gave to the Lady Felton a White ambling Pal••rey. I. num. 85.

Sir Raufe Mobberley his Uncle setled on him by Feoffment of Chaplains entrusted (as was the manner of those Times) all his Lands in Mobberley, with the Advowson of the Church of Mobberley, and other Lands: Dated at Mobberley, 1359. 33 Edw. 3. For Sir Raufe often protested, having no Lawful Issue but eight Sisters expecting to share his Inheritance, that all his Lands should descend to his Nephew John Leyce∣ster, and that his Estate should not be shattered and divided; as appears by the Certi∣ficate of Sir John Wynkfeld Knight, dated at London, 1360. 35 Edw. 3. A. fol. 128.ff. & fol. 129.hh.

Yet did John Leycester after release all his Right in these Lands unto John Dumbill of Mobberley and Cicely his Wife, and also to the Advowson of the Church of Mobber∣ley; Dated at Chester, 1 Rich. 2. 1378. Which Cicely was one of the Sisters of Sir Raufe Mobberley aforesaid: Lib. A. fol. 129. kk. But so conditioned and agreed be∣tween them, That Dumbill and Cicely should settle 15 Messuages, 316 Acres of Land, 16 Acres of Wood, 8 Acres of Mossing, the third part of a Water-mill, and the third part of all the Wastes not measured (to be understood of that Moiety of Mob∣berley belonging to Sir Raufe Mobberley) to descend after the death of John Dumbill and Cicely his Wife, unto Raufe Leycester, younger Brother of the said John Leycester, and to his Heirs for ever: Which was so setled accordingly, 2 Rich. 2. 1379. Lib. A. fol. 130.ll.mm. and are at this day, 1666. enjoyed by Leycester of Toft, as Heirs of the said Raufe, about a third part of Mobberley's Moiety of Mobberley.

This John Leycester also sold away his Mannor of Hield in Aston to William del Hield and Goditha his Wife, in Fee-farm, 1355. 29 Edw. 3. which Manor reverted back again to Leycester of Tabley; to wit, one Moiety purchased 1500. and the other Moi∣ety purcha••ed again 1601. as shall be observed in their due places: M. num. 13, 14.

This John built the Manor-Hall of Nether-Tabley, within the Pool, in that place where it now standeth, about Anno Domini 1380. 4 Rich. 2. before which time it stood a little higher, out of the Compass of the Pool, in a certain place adjoining to the Saffron-yards, where there is yet a Trench to be seen, which environed the Old Hall about with Water; which Old Hall, I conjecture, was the Seat of the Hearts of Nether-Tabley, whose Free-hold was bought out by Roger Leycester, as I have told you before.

John Leycester Sealed constantly with his Seal of his

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Coat of Arms and Crest, which is cut cornerways, ac∣cording to the manner of those Ages, to wit,—A Fesse be∣tween three Flower-de-Luces: Over the Dexter Angle of the Escocheon, which is set uppermost, is a Helmet, Wreath, and Mantle; thereon A Swans Head Couped, Guttee: Inscri∣bed about thus,—SIG. JOHANNIS LEICESTER: A. num. 2. and sundry others affixed to several of his Deeds under Richard the Second's Reign.

The Colours of the Coat at this day received are,— Azure, a Fesse Gules between three Flower-de-Luces Or: The Crest A Swans Head Couped Proper, with little Drops upon the Neck Gules.

He married Joan Daughter of Robert Touchet of Nether-Whitley, 5 Rich. 2. A. num. 2. and had Issue William Leycester, Son and Heir; Raufe Leycester, another Son, living 14 Rich. 2. I. num. 74.

6 Novembris, 1387. Concessa fuit Licentia Johanni Leycester pro Oratorio suo apud Tabley per unum Annum. Regist. Ricardi Scroope apud Lichfield, fol. 123.b. This is Mr. Dugdale's Note.

This John Leycester died 1398. 22 Rich. 2. about the Age of 58 Years, and sur∣vived his Father 49 Years.

V. William Leycester of Nether-Tabley Esquire, Son and Heir of John, is the first that I find stiled de Tabley▪ But this may be by reason of the Statute of Additions,

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

1 Hen. 5. cap. 5. For till after this Statute, few were written either of the Place, or with the Title of Esquire. Certain it is, this William lived at his Mannor-House of Nether-Tabley, which his Father John had newly erect∣ed, and where his Heirs have ever since fixed their Re∣sidence, even to this day: E. num. 2. R. num. 10.

He was one of the Justices of Peace of Bucklow-Hun∣dred in the Reign of Henry the Fifth, and Sealed with a Seal of his Coat of Arms and Crest, in all points like that of his Fathers, save onely the Form of the Mantle was a little different: R. num. 10. and many others: Lib. B. pag. 115.

He had two Wives: The first was Agnes Dutton Si∣ster to Sir Piers Dutton of Dutton, and Daughter of Ed∣mund Dutton, whom he married Anno Domini 1398. 22 Rich. 2. A. num. 5. By her he had Issue John Leycester, Lawrence Leycester, Geffrey Leycester, living 5 Hen. 6. K. num. 9. and Joan, a Daughter, married to Thomas Son of Thomas Starky de Wrenbury, 1422. 1 Hen. 6. A. num. 12. Also Cicely married Thomas Masterson of Masterson nigh Nantwich.

His second Wife was Pillaryne Widow to Robert Massy of Hale, and Sister to Sir Ri∣chard Cradock Knight, whom he married 3 Hen. 6. 1425. A. num. 11. But he had no Issue by her.

William Leycester died Anno Christi 1428. 6 Hen. 6. E. num. 3. about the Age of 50 Years, and survived his Father 30 Years.

VI. John Leycester of Nether-Tabley Esquire, the Elder, Son and Heir of William and Agnes, married Elizabeth Daughter of Hamon Massy of Rixton in Lancashire Esquire, 10 Hen. 5. 1422. A. num. 9. and had Issue John Leycester the Younger; Hamon Ley∣cester, made Parson of Mobberley 1460. Randle Leycester, admitted into the Hospital of Holy Trinity and St. Thomas the Martyr in Rome, with all the Privileges thereof, 1449. E. num. 4. Nicolas, another Son; Henry, another Son; William, another Son: A. num. 26. Maud, a Daughter, married to Thomas Son and Heir of Thomas Daniell of Over-Tabley, Esq 1440. 18 Hen. 6. A. num. 16. Alice, another Daughter, married to Richard Son and Heir of John Legh of High-Legh de West-Hall Esquire, 20 Hen. 6. 1442. Lib. B. pag. 121.

John Leycester the Elder died 2 Edw. 4. 1462. about the Age of 62 Years; and survived his Father 34 Years. Elizabeth his Widow was living 19 Edw. 4. H. num. 20.

VII. John Leycester of Nether-Tabley Esq the Younger, Son and Heir of John and Elizabeth, married Margery Daughter of John Legh of High-Legh de West-Hall Esquire, 20 Hen. 6. 1442. Lib. B. pag. 121. and had nine Sons; Thomas Leycester, Hamon, Bry∣an, Martin, John, Sir Lawrence a Chaplain, Piers, Roger, and Godfrey; Isabell, a Daughter, married John Glegge of Gayton in Wirrall Esquire: H. num. 2. A. num. 25.

John Leycester the Younger died Anno Christi 1496. 12 Hen. 7. Wills, num. 2. about the Age of 73 Years, and survived his Father 34 Years.

VIII. Thomas Leycester of Nether-Tabley Esquire, Son and Heir of John Leycester the Younger, had four Wives.

The first was Margaret sixth Daughter and Co-heir of Robert Grosvenour of Houlme nigh Nether-Pever Esquire, whom he married Anno Christi 1464. 4 Edw. 4. A. num. 20. and had Issue by her John Leycester, Son and Heir.

By this Margaret, Thomas Leycester had the Moiety of Nether-Pever cum Little-Pever,

the third part of Over; Alderley, the third part of Pygreve-wood in the Demain Lands of Allostock in the County of Chester, and certain Lands in Hope juxta Alstonfield in the County of Stafford, by Partition dated 5 Edw. 4. (1465.) and Margery Grosve∣nour, fourth Daughter, and Co-heir, dying without Issue 1474. John Leycester (Son and Heir of Thomas and Margaret) had in Right of his Mother, as Sister and Co-heir to Margery, a fifth part of Allostock, by Partition dated 14 Edw. 4. 1474. For Marge∣ry had all Allostock to her Share: But Margaret the Mother of John Leycester was now dead at the time of this later Partition, made Z. num. 28. V. num. 1, 2. She was living 9 Edw. 4. K. num. 6. But she was dead 14 Edw. 4.

The second Wife of Thomas Leycester was Margery the Widow of Edmund Legh of Baggilegh Esquire, and Daughter of Sir John Savage of Clifton near Halton in Cheshire. She was married to Thomas Leycester 17 Edw. 4. 1477. and by him had Issue Arthur Leycester, and Geffrey Leycester, living 1508. Lib. C. fol. 271.d. e. Lib. B. pag. 133. A. num. 25.

The third Wife of Thomas Leycester was Elizabeth the Widow of Peter Dutton of Hatton Esquire, and Daughter of Sir Robert Fowleshurst of Crew in Cheshire, whom he married 22 Hen. 7. 1506. T. num. 1.

The fourth Wife of Thomas Leycester was Blanch the Rich. Widow of Oliver Berdes∣ley of Warrington, whom he married 1522. 14 Hen. 8. A. num. 29. But he had no Is∣sue by her.

This Thomas Leycester purchased again the one Moiety of Hield, 1500. 16 Hen. 7. M. num. 19. which John Son of Nicolas Leycester sold away, as I have shewed before,

Thomas Leycester of Tabley Esquire died about 1526. 18 Hen. 8. about the Age of 82 Years, and survived his Father 30 Years.

IX. John Leycester of Nether-Tabley Esquire, Son and Heir of Thomas by Margaret his first Wife, married Lucy Daughter of John Ratcliffe of Ratcliffe in Lancashire, Esq 19 Edw. 4. 1479. A. num. 26. by whom he had Issue William Leycester, who married Anne Daughter of Richard Sneyd of Bradwell in Staffordshire, Esquire, 23 Hen. 7. 1508. A num. 25. But William dying without Issue in the Life-time of John his Father, Anne his Widow married Roger Hurleston of Chester Esquire, 25 Hen. 8. 1533.

After the death of Lucy, John Leycester married Alice Daughter of Henry Henshaw de Milne-house nigh Chelford, Gentleman, 15 Hen. 7. 1499. Z. num. 13. and by her had Issue Peter Leycester, who succeeded Heir to his Father; Richard, another Son; James Leycester, third Son by Alice, from whom the Leycesters of Hale-lowe in Bodon-Parish; Lawrence Leycester, another Son, living 1577. Also Isabel, a Daughter, married John Ogle of Roby in Lancashire Esquire: O. num. 6. Wills, num. 3.

This John Leycester had also two Bastard-sons; Nicolas, from whem the Leycesters now of Hield, 1666. and John Leycester, who died without Issue: Also three Ba∣stard-daughters; Elizabeth married Thomas Swynton of Nether-Knotsford, 30 Hen. 8. Joan, another Base Daughter; she was called Joan Birchenhead, 1543. And Margaret, another Base Daughter: O. num. 6. Wills, num. 3. A. num. 34.

John Leycester of Tabley sold Hulme-House in Over Alderley, now called The Pastures, unto Nicolas Hobson, 18 Hen. 7. 1502. Z. num. 1.

This John died 35 Hen. 8. 1543. Wills, num. 3. and was buried at Great-Budworth, in our Lady Mary's Chappel there, in the appropriate Burial-place of his Family, in the seventy seventh Year of his Age; and survived his Father seventeen Years.

X. Piers Leycester of Nether-Tabley Esquire, Son and Heir of John by Alice his se∣cond Wife, married Alice Daughter of Sir John Holford of Holford juxta Nether-Tabley, 21 Hen. 8. 1529. O. num. 6. by whom he had Issue Peter, Son and Heir; Adam, second Son; William, third Son, from whom the Leycesters of Legh in Stafford∣shire: B. num. 28. Alice, a Daughter, married Geffrey Brereton, Son and Heir of Sir Richard Brereton of Tatton nigh Knotsford, Anno Christi 1551. 5 Edw. 6. A. num. 35. Margaret, another Daughter, married Richard Birkenhed of Manley Recorder of

Chester; Elizabeth, Ellen, and Parnell were never married: Wills, num. 10. E. num. 7, 9.

Piers had also two Bastard-sons, John and Christopher: O. num. 7.

He bought the Lands of Budworth, 2 Edw. 6. and Symcock's Tenement in Marston, 7 Eliz. 1564. and the Lands in Northwich, 13 Eliz. 1571. B. num. 2. & num. 26. L. num. 10, 11. For the effecting of these, he sold the Land in Hope juxta Alstonfeld in Staffordshire, which came by Margaret Grosvenour; a very small Parcel, and re∣mote.

Piers Leycester Esquire died 8 die Aprilis, 1577. 19 Eliz. and was buried at Great-Budworth the eleventh of April following, in the appropriate Burial-place of his Fa∣mily, in our Ladies Chappel there, in the seventieth Year of his Age, and survived his Father 34 Years: Wills, num. 10. and Register-book of Budworth. O. num. 7.

Alice his Wife was buried also at Great-Budworth, 1575. 17 Eliz. the thirtieth day of August: So the Register.

Piers Leycester in his Will bequeaths his Body to be buried in his Chappel at Great-Budworth. This Chappel anciently was stiled Our Lady Mary's Chappel; but of late times Dutton-Tenants have stiled it Dutton-Chappel, and Leycester's Tenants stiled it Ley∣cester's-Chappel; for both have Right of Burial here: But now of late, to wit, Anno Domini 1670. Leycester's Part of the said Chappel is separated, and Railed out from the rest, and is now entire within it self, as a distinct Chappel of it self.

{fleur-de-lys} In this Lady Mary's Chappel aforesaid was anciently the Image of the Virgin Mary cut in Wood, curiously trimmed and decked, her Shoes gilded, and Hair fastned on her Head; set on a Frame of Wood about two Foot high: But these Idolatrous Images were removed out of all the Churches of England upon Reformation of Religion, which was first done by Command of Hen. 8. Anno Domini 1538.* 50.2 Speed's Hist. pag. 790. But this of Budworth was taken down, hewed in pieces, and burned in the Vicar's Oven, about Anno Domini 1559. by Command from Queen Elizabeth, who purged all the Churches from what remained of those Images.

XI. Peter Leycester of Nether-Tabley Esquire. Son and Heir of Piers and Alice, mar∣ried Elizabeth Daughter and Sole Heir of Edward Colwich of Colwich in Staffordshire Esquire, near Owsley-Bridge, 1 & 2 Phil. & Mar. 1554. A. num. 53. and had Issue Peter, who died without Issue; Alice married Sir George Leycester of Toft; Elizabeth married George Legh of High-Legh de East-Hall Esquire, 1581. And Katharine mar∣ried John Son and Heir of George Ireland of Hutt in Lancashire Esquire, 1583. E. num. 26. Wills, num. 4.

This Peter purchased Stanley of Hooton's fifth Part of Allostock, 21 Eliz. V. num. 8.

He died 21 die Julii, 1581. 23 Eliz. and was buried at Great-Budworth, in his ap∣propriate Burial-place in our Ladies Chappel there, the 26 of the same Month, in the fortieth Year of his Age; and survived his Father four Years: O. num. 9. and Regi∣ster of Budworth-Church.

Elizabeth his Widow married George Ireland of Hutt in Lancashire Esquire, 1583. 26 Eliz. A. num. 47.

The three Daughters and Heirs carried away the Lands of their Mother: But this Peter entailed all his ancient Lands on his Brother Adam Leycester, 1581. E. num. 26. N. num. 1.

XII. Adam Leycester of Nether-Tabley Esquire, Brother and Heir-male to Peter, married Dorothy the Widow of Thomas Holford Son and Heir of Christopher Holford of Holford Esquire, and Daughter of Peter Shakerley of Houlme nigh Nether-Pever Esq 9 die Januarii, 1582. and had Issue John, who died young, buried at Great-Budworth, 1586. Piers Leycester, second Son, died an Infant, buried at Nether-Pever the 20 of January, 1587. Peter, born the tenth day of July, and Baptized at Nether-Pever, 14

die Julii, 1588. O. num. 12. survived Heir; and Adam, baptized at Nether-Pever, 21 die Octobris, 1590. was buried there the nineteenth day of November next follow∣ing: So the Register of Nether-Pever.

This Adam Leycester Esquire died 7 die Junii, and was buried at Great-Budworth, in the appropriate Burial-place of his Ancestors, the seventeenth day of June, 33 Eliz. 1591. and survived his Brother Peter ten Years: O. num. 12. and Register de Budworth.

Dorothy, the Widow of Adam, purchased the other Moiety of Hield, Anno 1601. M. num. 60. And so the whole is now reverted. She also built the Gate-house at Nether-Tabley: And she was buried at Nether-Pever, 23 die Aprilis, 1630.

XIII. Peter Leycester of Nether-Tabley Esquire, Son and Heir of Adam and Dorothy, married Elizabeth Daughter of Sir Randle Manwaring of Over-Pever, the Elder, 1611. 9 Jacobi. He was but three Years old when his Father Adam died, and was Ward to his Mother, who had Compounded for his Wardship with Queen Elizabeth.

He had Issue Margaret, born September 29. 1612. and buried at Great-Budworth 12 die Octobris, 1612. Peter, who Composed this Book, born 3 die Martii, 1613. Elizabeth, born the first day of June, 1615. and buried at Great-Budworth 15 die Julii following: Philip, born 1616. who dying soon after, the next Son was also called Philip, born 1618. Collector of Oxford 1641. made Fellow of Brazen-nose-College 1643. and died unmarried 1653. Thomas Leycester, born 26 die Julii, 1620. died also unmarried 27 die Augusti, 1652. Adam Leycester, youngest Son, born 21 die Octobris, 1625. now Captain of a Foot-Company in Ireland, 1666. and living in Limrick. This Adam married Mary Thaddius, the Widow of one Lieutenant Pope in Ireland, Anno Domini 1667. She was Daughter to one Thaddius late of Northdown in Kent, of a Welch Extraction.

Elizabeth, the Wife of this Peter Leycester the Father, died at Nether-Tabley on Sat∣turday the thirteenth day of November, 1641. and was buried at Over-Pever, as she had oft in her Life-time desired. She was born the tenth day of May, 1587. so that she lived 54 Years and 6 Months.

Peter her Husband died on Tuesday the seventh day of March, 1647. aged 59 Years and 8 Months, and was buried at Great-Budworth on the Satturday following, in the appropriate Burial-place of his Ancestors in our Ladies Chappel there, on the North-side of the said Church; and survived his Father 56 Years.

XIV. Sir Peter Leycester of Nether-Tabley Baronet, Son and Heir of Peter and Eli∣zabeth, married Elizabeth the third and youngest Daughter of Gilbert late Lord Gerard of Gerards-Bromley in Staffordshire, by Dame Elinour his Lady, Daughter and sole Heir of Thomas Dutton late of Dutton in Cheshire, Esquire. This Peter and Elizabeth* 50.3 were married at Dutton the sixth day of November, 1642. and had Issue Robert Leycester, eldest Son, born at Chester on Monday the eleventh day of September, 1643. Byron Ley∣cester, second Son, born also at Chester on Tuesday the twenty sixth day of November, 1644. He died the seventeenth day of May next following, and was buried at Trinity-Church in Chester, where he was also Christned: Thomas Leycester, third Son, born at Nether-Tabley on Thursday-Morning the eighth day of January, 1651. He died the fifth day of March, being Thursday, 1667. at Nether-Tabley, and was buried at Great-Budworth, in the seventeenth Year of his Age; Magnae spei Juvenis: Elinour, eldest Daughter, born at Nether-Tabley on Palm-Sunday, 22 die Martii, 1645. married Raufe Leycester eldest Son of George Leycester of Toft Esquire, 29 die Augusti, 1665. and hath several Issue: Elizabeth, second Daughter, born at Nether-Tabley on Wednesday the sixteenth day of June, 1647. married Samuel Birch younger Son of John Birch of Whitborn in Herefordshire, 1666. She miscarried of a Female-Child in November, 1667. and soon after died of the Small-Pox, on Saturday the last of November, at Whitborn aforesaid, Anno Domini 1667. and was buried at Whitborn-Church: Byron Leycester, third Daughter, born at Nether-Tabley on Saturday the sixth day of October, 1655. and is yet living, 1669.

Sir Peter Leycester and Elizabeth his Lady are both yet living, 1669. He was Crea∣ted Baronet the tenth day of August, 1660. 12 Car. 2.

XV. Robert Leycester of Nether-Tabley Esquire, eldest Son of Sir Peter and Eliza∣beth, married Meriel Daughter and Heir of Francis Watson late of Church-Aston nigh Newport in Shropshire, Esquire, 6 die Junii, 1667. and hath Issue Robert, a Son, born at Marcham in Berkshire on Friday the sixteenth day of April, Anno Domini 1669.

Over-Tabley.

THe Township of Over-Tabley was held by William Fitz-Nigell Baron of Halton, in the Time of William the Conqueror: We read in Doomsday-book thus:— Isdem Willielmus tenet Stabelei: Lewinus tenuit & liber Homo fuit: ibi tertia pars unius Hidae Geldabilis Terra est una Caruca: Wasta fuit, & est: Silva ibi dimidia Leuva longa, & XL Perticis lata: valuit X solidos.

Isdem Willielmus tenet in ipsa Villa unam Bovatam Terrae, & tertiam partem unius Hidae Geldabilem: Segrid & Ulsi tenuerunt pro duobus Maneriis, & liberi fuerunt: Terra est una Caruca: Wasta fuit, & est: Tempore Regis Edwardi valebat septem solidos.

But not long after, certain it is that this Township was of three distinct Fees.

One third Part of Over-Tabley Roger de Manwaring gave to the Monastery of Saint Werburge in Chester, in the Reign of Henry the Second: Lib. B. in principio. This third Part came afterwards to William de Tabley* 50.4, who gave the same to Sir John Grey Son of Sir Reginald Grey; and Sir John granted it to Roger Leycester Lord of Nether-Tabley, Anno Domini 1296. F. num. 1. Which in all the Offices of Leycester of Tabley is found to be held of the Abby of St. Werburge: And Leycester of Tabley is now possessed of this third Part at this day, 1666.

One other third Part was possessed by Adam de Tabley in the Reign of Edward the Third, Sir William Boydell being Chief Lord thereof: For William Son of John Boy∣dell of Dodleston releaseth unto Adam de Tabley all Services due for his third Part of Over-Tabley, for one Penny onely, to be paid at the Nativity of St. John Baptist year∣ly, for all Service: Dated at Dodleston, 17 Edw. 3. 1342. F. num. 3. This Adam de Tabley I conceive was originally a Massy; for he Sealed with Massy's Coat of Arms. This third Part came afterwards to Thomas Daniell, younger Son of Thomas Daniell of Bradley in Appleton, the Elder, by Joan Norreys a second Wife, in Marriage with Ka∣tharine Daughter and Heir of William Son of Adam de Tabley, 27 Edw. 3. 1353. Lib. C. fol. 241.l. for which Marriage Thomas Daniell the Father gave to Adam de Tabley 46l. 13s. 4d. By Katharine came also the Moiety of Bexton to Thomas Daniell the Son, her Husband, who was afterwards Sir Thomas Daniell of Over-Tabley, 6 Rich. 2. 1382. whose Heirs are possessed of this third Part at this present, 1666.

One other third part remaining was possessed anciently by another Family of the Tableys, called The Hall of the Wood in Over-Tabley; until Matthew de Tabley was At∣tainted of Felony, 22 Edw. 4. 1483. whose Lands, by the Office taken 1 Hen. 7. were found to be held of the Honour of Halton, and so were seized into the King's Hands. And I find John Leycester of Nether-Tabley Esq excepting against that Office of 1 Hen. 7. and complaining to the Judges and Chamberlain of Chester, and al∣ledging, That these Lands were held of him by Homage and Fealty, and Twelve Pence* 50.5 yearly Rent; and praying that he may be restored to these Lands, as Chief Lord of the Fee: C. num. 31. But he had too Potent a Person to deal with. And King Henry the Seventh granted these Lands to Sir William Stanley of Holt-Castle, Lord Chamberlain: But he being beheaded for Treason, 1495. these Lands Escheated again to the King: And Henry the Eighth Leased them to Randle Brereton for his Life, 2 Hen. 8. And after, Roger Brereton his Son had them for his Life. Afterwards these Lands continuing in the King's Hands, Robert Chornock and Roger Chornock of London purchased the same, and sold them to Piers Leycester of Nether-Tabley Esquire, for 240l.

whereof one Moiety was paid in Hand, and the other he gave Bond for: But Peter Daniell of Over-Tabley Esquire purchasing these Lands at 9l. per Annum in the King's Books, the Chornocks purchased them after the Rate of 18d. in the King's Books, and cheated the said Piers Leycester by a fraudulent Conveyance, so that he could not enjoy these Lands; It was Decreed in the Court of Requests, 4 Maii, 1 Eliz. 1559. That the Chornocks should restore the Money which they had received, and deliver up the Bond Obligatory to be Cancelled: And so Daniell had the Lands, which his Po∣sterity now enjoyeth, 1666. C. num. 13.

Charterers in Over-Tabley, 1666.

• 1. Edward Hewet of Mobberley hath one Tenement in Over-Tabley, now in Possession of his Tenant John Kell; which is within Mr. Daniell's Part.
• 2. There is also one other in Leycester's third Part, to wit, the Tenement in Pos∣session late of Richard Duncalfe of Tabley-Hill, whereunto formerly Coithurst-Meadows (now part of Mr. Daniell's Demain) did belong. This payeth 12d. of Chief-rent yearly to Leycester, now paid by William Legh of Tabley-Hill. This Free-hold was Purchased by George le Criour from Thomas Monkys, 5 Ed. 4. Afterwards this Land was purchased by John Duncalfe of Mere, 30 Hen. 8. After it came to Peter Hulse of Over-Tabley: Hulse sells it to Whitmore of Sud∣low, 1604. Whitmore sold it to Peter Daniell Esquire, 1611.

In this Township there is an Ancient Chappel, called Over-Tabley-Chappel, or more generally known by the name of The Chappel in the Street; for it is situate in the High-street: An old pitiful Structure, ill seated, and now in decay. This Chappel of Ease, being within the Parish of Rosthorn, was built about the Reign of Henry the Sixth, by the Ancestors of Leycester of Nether-Tabley and Daniell of Over-Tabley, for the Ease and Convenience of these two Families, and of all their Tenants in Over-Tabley and Nether-Tabley: Probably after the Match of Thomas Daniell and Maud Leycester, which was in Anno Dimini 1440. 18 Hen. 6. It seems to be erected not long after, for Convenience of both Families, and placed in the middle-way between the two Houses; one half of the said Chappel belonging to Leycester and his Tenants, and the other half to Daniell and his Tenants; and so hath been enjoyed ever since accordingly.

Before this Chappel was erected here in Over-Tabley, there was anciently a Chappel situate in Nether-Tabley, within the Parish of Great-Budworth, in a certain Field cal∣led at this day The Chappel-Field, Parcel of the Demain-Land of Nether-Tabley; where, within our Memory, Servants in Ploughing have discovered Great Stones, which were the Foundation-Stones of that Chappel, seated in the very uppermost Corner of the Great-Rye-Field-Hedge adjoining to the Chappel-Field: But this Chappel, I conceive, was neglected, or taken down, upon the erecting of the other in Over-Tabley, and was much better Seated.

Now followeth the Descent of the Daniels of Over-Tabley.

I. William Danyers senior Purchased Lands in Daresbery from Henry le Norreys, Anno Domini 1291. 19 Edw. 1. Lib. C. fol. 184.d. and had to Wife Agnes de Legh, Daugh∣ter of Thomas de Legh of High-Legh of the West-Hall, by whom he had Issue Margery, married to Henry Horsale of Limme: Lib. C. fol. 233.a. & 243.b. c. Agnes, another Daughter, married Alexander, Son of Richard, Son of Alexander de Waleton nigh Da∣resbury, 30 Edw. 1. Lib. B. pag. 204. num. 12. He had also two Sons, Thomas Dani∣ers of Bradley in Appleton, eldest Son; and William Daniers of Daresbery junior, second Son; and (if I mistake not) John, a third Son: Lib. C. fol. 243.a. unless that John Son of William Daniers, 23 Edw. 3. be meant of William Daniers junior.

William Daniers junior, second Son, had his Father's Land in Daresbery, and had a

Wife called Agnes, and had Issue John Danyers, Son and Heir: Lib. C. fol. 185. m. acd three Daughters, Cicely, Agnes, and Magot; and another Son, called Henry; all living at the time of their Father's death, 1306. who was buried at Limme: Lib. C. fol. 187. v. Cicely married Robert Stathum of Stathum in Limme, living 20 Edw. 3. I conceive William Danyers junior was he who died 1306.

Sir John Danyers of Daresbery, Son and Heir of William Danyers junior, had Issue William Son and Heir, who married Clemence Daughter and Heir of Alan de Norreys, 1344. by whom he had the Manor of Daresbery, and Royalty of Over-Walton in Cheshire, and the Lands of Sutton, Eccleston, & Raynull in Lancashire: Lib. C. fol. 185. e.h.m. from whom the Daniells of Daresbery in Cheshire are descended; a Family continuing at this day, 1666.

I find Sir John Danyers of Daresbery stiled Knight, 1344. 18 Edw. 3.

II. Thomas Danyers of Bradley, senior, 17 Edw. 2. Son and Heir of William Danyers senior, had Land in Limme by the Grant of William Danyers his Father: Lib. C. fol. 186.q. He Purchased Bradley from Peter Dutton Lord of Warburton, 1301. Lib. C. fol. 242.z. He married Margaret Daughter of Adam de Tabley: Lib. C. fol. 221.g. and had Issue Thomas Danyers junior, eldest Son: Lib. C. fol. 186.q. Sir John Danyers of Gropenhale, second Son; Augustine, who had Lands in Sworton in High-Legh, 11 Edw. 3. Lib. C. fol. 275. num. 30. Alice, a Daughter, married Matthew Son of William Mere of Mere nigh Over-Tabley, 13 Edw. 2. 1319. Lib. C. fol. 208.s. Margaret, another Daugh∣ter, married John Son of Vivian de Derewallshaw, id est, Thelwallshaw, 1335. Lib. C. fol. 245.a. Joan, another Daughter: Also three Bastard-sons, William, Roger, and Robert: Lib. C. fol. 233. K. (1349.)

Thomas Danyers senior had to his second Wife Joan Norreys, by whom he had Issue Thomas Danyers, afterwards Sir Thomas Danyers of Over-Tabley: Lib. C. fol. 244. E. Henry, another Son, to whom his Father gave the Marriage of the Heir of William Clerke of Over-Tabley, 28 Edw. 3. Ibid. fol. 235. P. And Richard, another Son, living 6 Rich. 2. Ibid. fol. 241.m.

Thomas Danyers made his Will, 28 Edw. 3. 1354. and was buried at Limme. Joan Norreys his Widow maried after William Bostock of Bostock: Lib. C. fol. 244. M. 9.

This Thomas Danyers was Sheriff of Cheshire 25 & 27 Edw. 3.

III. Sir Thomas Danyers of Bradley Knight, Son and Heir of Thomas Danyers se∣nior, married Isabel Daughter and Heir of William Baggiley by Clemence his Wife, Daughter and Co-heir to Sir Roger Chedle, alias Sir Roger Dutton of Chedle in Cheshire; which William was Son of Rafe Baggiley: Lib. C. fol. 245.b. & 150.l.

This Thomas Danyers died before his Father, to wit, 26 Edw. 3. leaving onely one Daughter and Heir, called Margaret, who had three Husbands. She carried away all her Mothers Lands, and had Clifton and other Lands in Chedle; of whom you may see more in Clifton: But his own Lands were setled on the Heirs-Males of the Danyers.

IV. Sir John Danyers of Gropenhale in Right of his Wife, next Heir-Male to Sir Thomas his elder Brother, had two Wives. The first was Joan Daughter of Sir Wil∣liam Boydell, and Sister and Co-heir to William Boydell of Dodleston in Cheshire; and had Issue Margaret, a Daughter, living 28 Edw. 3. whom I conceive was she that was Af∣fianced young to Sir Robert Grosvenour of Houlm in Allostock; but she lived not to enjoy him, or have any Issue: Lib. C. fol. 235. P. & 126.II.KK. Nicolaa, another Daugh∣ter, Heir to the Lands of her Mother, married _____ _____ and had Issue Margaret, Daughter and Heir, the Wife of Alan de Rixton in Lancashire, by Hollin-Ferry; which Margaret died without Issue 6 Rich. 2. Lib. C. fol. 290.a.c.

The second Wife of Sir John was Alice Daughter of _____ _____ but had no Issue by her.

This Sir John usually Sealed with his Coat and Crest, to wit, A Pale Fusile; on a Helmet, a Unicorns Head Coupcd. The Colours at this day received are, Argent, a Pale Fusile Sable.

Sir John Danyers died 47 Edw. 3. and Alice his Widow afterwards married Sir Ed∣ward Benestede, living 14 Rich. 2. Lib. C. fol. 242.s.t.w.x. It seems Sir John had a Son called Robert, 43 Edw. 3. Lib. C. fol. 233.h. but he died without Issue.

After the death of Sir John, Thomas Danyers (Son of Thomas Danyers of Bradley senior, by Joan Norreys his later Wife) succeeded as next Heir-male. He was Half-brother to Sir John, and was afterwards Sir Thomas Danyers of Over-Tabley. He gave 20s. Annuity for his Life unto Hugh Hulse of Picmere, to be on Counsel with him, 48 Edw. 3. Lib. 3. fol. 243.f. Whose Descent followeth.

• Roger of Over-Tabley.
  • Adam de Tabley, Son of Roger, married Beatrix Daughter of _____ _____ and had Issue Adam; Hugh de Tabley,* 50.6 who married Margery Daughter of Hugh de Picmere: Lib. B. pag. 53. num. 18. but left no Issue: William, another Son: Thomas, a Chaplain: Lib. C. fol. 241.g. l. Also Margaret, a Daughter, Wife of Thomas Daniers of Bradley senior: Lib. C. fol. 221.f.g.
    • Adam de Tabley, Son of Adam, Lord of the third Part of Over-Tabley, and of the Moiety of Bexton, living 35 Edw. 3. married Katharine _____ _____ and had Issue William; and Alice the Wife of William, Son of Robert, Son of William de Buckley, 18 Edw. 3. Lib. C. fol. 229.q.
      • William de Tabley, Son and Heir of Adam, had to Wife Mary _____ _____ and had Issue Katharine, Daughter and Heir, married to Tho∣mas Danyers, afterwards Sir Thomas Danyers of Over-Tabley: Lib. C. fol. 241.l.

{fleur-de-lys} Adam de Tabley Sealed with Massy's Coat of Arms, whereby he seems to be Originally a Massy.

I. Sir Thomas Daniell of Over-Tabley Knight, Son of Thomas Daniell of Bradley in Appleton senior, by Joan Norreys, and Heir to his Fathers Lands after the death of Sir John Daniell his Half-brother. I find him stiled

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Knight, 6 Rich. 2. in which Year he served in the Wars under Sir Hugh Calveley of Lea, the famous Soldier: Lib. C. fol. 244.q.r.

The Sir-name of this Family was anciently writ∣ten Danyers; and I have seen it written De Anyers un∣der Edward the Second: but in later Ages it was constantly written Daniell, and so at this day they are usually called, which I rather chuse to follow.

He married Katharine Daughter and Heir of Wil∣liam Son of Adam de Over-Tabley, 27 Edw. 3. 1353. Lib. C. fol. 233.l. & 241.l. for which Marriage Tho∣mas Daniell his Father gave to Adam de Tabley, Grand-father of the said Katharine, 46l. 13s. 4d. Where∣upon the third part of Over-Tabley was setled on this Thomas Daniell the Son, and Katharine his Wife, to descend after the decease of the said Adam de Tabley.

He had Issue Thomas Daniell; John Daniell, living 15 Hen. 6. Lib. C. fol. 242.r. And Jonet, a Daughter, married John Warwick of Upton in VVirral, the younger, 15 Rich. 2. 1391. Lib. C. fol. 240.c.

Sir Thomas Daniel died 6 Rich. 2. 1383. paulo ante Festum* Sancti Edmundi Archiepi∣scopi,: Lib. C. fol. 241.m. Katharine survived, and was living 3 Hen. 5. 1416. Lib. C. fol. 217.a.

II. Thomas Daniell of Over-Tabley, Son and Heir of Sir Thomas, married Elizabeth Widow of Thomas Boydell of Gropenhale junior, and Daughter of Sir Richard Aston of Aston nigh Frodsham-Bridge: Lib. C. fol. 281.f. & 283.g. and had Issue Thomas, John, Richard, Henry, Roger, and Lawrence: So the Herald's Book: Lib. C. fol. 241.o.

This Thomas Daniel died 10 Hen. 6. 1431. Elizabeth died 11 Hen. 4.

III. Thomas Daniell of Over-Tabley Esquire, stiled The Elder, 18 Hen. 6. Son and Heir of Thomas, married Isabel Daughter of John Rixton, 1 Hen. 5. 1413. by whom he had Lands in Warrington; and had Issue Thomas Son and Heir; John Daniell, ano∣ther Son, was Soldier under Captain Piers Daniell, Son of John Daniell of Daresbery, 21 Hen. 6. Lib. C. fol. 236.q.r. & fol. 244.s. And Elizabeth Wife of John Son of Henry Legh, 26 Hen. 6.

IV. Thomas Daniell of Over-Tabley Esquire, Son and Heir of Thomas Daniell the El∣der, married Maud Daughter of John Leycester of Nether-Tabley, the Elder, Esquire, 11 Hen. 6. 1440. Lib. C. fol. 236.s. and had Issue Thomas, Son and Heir; William Daniell, living 12 Edw. 4. Katharine married Roger Millington of Millington in Rosthorn-Parish, Gentleman: She was Widow 1487. 3 Hen. 7. And Parnel married Robert Lathom of Congleton, 4 Hen. 7. 1489. And Cicely, another Daughter: Lib. C. fol. 236.w.z. & 243.g.

{fleur-de-lys} In the Herald's Book of Chester I find, That this Thomas Daniell and Maud had Issue Thomas, William, John, and Cicely; and that Thomas the Son married Katharine de Middleton (or Milneton), and had Issue Thomas, William, Katharine, Parnel, and Cicely, as is above-shewed. Sed quaere.

V. Thomas Daniell of Over-Tabley Esquire, Son and Heir of Thomas, married Blanch Daughter of Piers Warburton of Arley Esquire, 1472. 13 Edw. 4. Lib. C. fol. 236.x. and had Issue Peter Daniell, Son and Heir; Thomas, second Son; Richard, third Son; and three Daughters, Ellen, Margery, and Margaret, living 15 Hen. 7. Lib. C. fol. 237.a. & 239.q.

This Thomas Daniell died 10 Hen. 7. 1494. Buried in the North-Chappel, called Our Ladies Chappel, in the Parish-Church of Rosthorn. He left by his Will 20 s. per Annum to Cicely his Whore during her Life, in those very Words: Lib. C. fol. 237.a.

Blanch his Wife died on St. James's-day, 1508. 24 Hen. 7. Lib. C. fol. 239.r.

This Thomas took possession of Cherry-tree-Hurst in Limme, as next Heir, 1493. For then died Thomas Daniell of Limme without Issue, the last Heir of that Family of Limme: But the Matter was not fully setled, till the Award of William Hill Prebend of Lichfield, 23 Hen. 8. when William Daniell of Longdon in Staffordshire (who claim∣ed as next Heir to Daniell of Limme, as Son of William, Brother of John Daniell, late of Cherry-tree-Hurst in Limme) by vertue of that Award passed all his Right in those Lands to Thomas Daniell of Over-Tabley, Grand-son of this Thomas Daniell aforesaid.

VI. Piers Daniell of Over-Tabley Esquire, Son and Heir of Thomas and Blanch, married Julian Daughter of Sir Peter Newton, Secretary to the Prince, who had the Wardship of the said Piers, 15 Hen. 7. 1499. Lib. C. fol. 239.q. and had Issue Tho∣mas, Son and Heir; Robert Daniell of Bexton, second Son; Peter, third Son, living 1522. Anne, eldest Daughter, married first to Whitmore, after to William Hulse; Elizabeth, second Daughter, married first to William Owen, after to Anthony Shepherd; Parnel married John Bressy of Teerton in Cheshire: Lib. C. fol. 240. x. 242. y. & 244.n.

Piers Daniell had also three Bastard-daughters, Margery Daniell, Isabel Daniell, and Anne Daniell; and three Bastard-sons, John Daniell, Raufe Daniell, and Humphrey Da∣niell, by Anne Brachegirdle; all living 1522. Lib. C. fol. 242.y.

This Piers Daniell Esquire died 1522. 14 Hen. 8. at the Age of 38 Years. Julian his Wife died 34 Hen. 8. 1542. Lib. C. fol. 239.s.t.

VII. Thomas Daniell of Over-Tabley Esquire, Son and Heir of Piers and Julian, married Margaret Daughter of William Wilbraham of Woodhey in Cheshire Esq 1521. 13 Hen. 8. Lib. C. fol. 237. e. and had Issue Peter Daniell, Son and Heir; Thomas Daniell, second Son; Sir William Daniell, Judge of the Common Pleas, third Son; Richard Daniell, fourth Son, died 1605. Ellen married John Massy of Codington in Che∣shire, 1553. Margaret married Christofer Holford of Iscoit in Flintshire, younger Son of Sir John Holford of Holford nigh Tabley, 2 & 3 Phil. & Mar. 1555. After she mar∣ried James Barker of Hamond near Shrewsbury: Lib. C. fol. 238.I. & 243.h.k.

This Thomas Daniell died 5 Edw. 6. 2 die Junii, 1551. aged 48 Years: Lib. C. fol. 238.I. Margaret his Wife survived. He Purchased the Lands in Picmere, which his Posterity now holdeth, 1666. from William Sneyd, 36 Hen. 8. called Wiche's Lands; which came to the Crown by the Attainder of Sir William Stanley, Lord Chamberlain to Henry the Seventh, as I have before declared in Over-Tabley: Lib. C. fol. 244.o.

VIII. Peter Daniell of Over-Tabley Esquire, Son and Heir of Thomas and Margaret, married Alice Daughter of George Booth of Dunham-Massy Esquire, 4 Edw. 6. 1550. and had Issue onely a Daughter and Heir called Dorothy, married to William Massy, Son and Heir of Richard Massy of Rixton in Lancashire Esquire, 14 Eliz. 1571. Lib. C. fol. 243. I. l.

This Peter Purchased the Hall of Woodlands in Over-Tabley, 3 & 4 Phil. & Mar. 1556. which Escheated to the Crown upon the Attainder of Matthew de Tabley, 22 Edw. 4. as I have shewn before in Over-Tabley.

This Peter Daniell died 9 die Novembris, 4 & 5 Phil. & Mar. 1557. at the Age of 28 Years within a Month, leaving Thomas his Brother and Heir to succeed him: Lib. C. fol. 238.k.

IX. Thomas Daniell of Over-Tabley Esquire, Brother and Heir-male to the last Pe∣ter, married Alice Daughter of Fouk Dutton of the City of Chester, and had Issue Peter, Son and Heir; Thomas, second Son; Richard, third Son; William, fourth Son, died 20 die Maii, 33 Eliz. 1591. John, fifth Son; and Margaret, a Daughter, living 1575. 17 Eliz. Lib. C. fol. 240.x.

This Thomas Daniell Esquire died 1575. 17 Eliz. aged 41 Years. Alice survived, and was living 1590. Lib. C. fol. 239.m. & 238.l.

X. Peter Daniell of Over-Tabley Esquire, Son and Heir of Thomas and Alice, married Anne Daughter of Henry Manwaring of Carincham in Cheshire Esquire, 1574. and had Issue Peter, Son and Heir, six Years old when his Father died; Richard Daniell, se∣cond Son, died without Issue; Frances married Edward Littleton, younger Son of Littleton of Pillaton in Staffordshire, near Pancridge; Anne, second Daughter, died with∣out Issue; Mary, third Daughter, married John Woodnot of Shenton in Cheshire; after to John King of Salmondley in Lincolnshire; Jane, fourth Daughter, died without Issue.

This Peter died 3 die Augusti, 1590. 32 Eliz. aged 29 Years. Anne his Widow af∣terwards married Thomas Ashold Parson of Swetenham in Cheshire: And she died 29 Julii, 1633. and had the Wardship of her Son: Lib. C. fol. 239.n.o.

XI. Peter Daniell of Over-Tabley Esquire, Son and Heir of Peter and Anne, married Christian Daughter of Richard Grosvenour of Eaton-boat in Cheshire Esquire, and had Issue Peter, eldest Son; Henry, second Son, married Anne Daughter of Sir John Dorell of Westwoody in Berkshire, but had no Issue; John Daniell, third Son, was an Appren∣tice

in London, and married, but died also without Issue; William, fourth Son, mar∣ried Dorothy Forth of Wiggan in Lancashire; Thomas, fifth Son, slain at the Battel of Brainford near London, 1642. Margaret, eldest Daughter, married Richard Green of Conglyton in Cheshire, Gentleman; Christian, second Daughter, married George Daven∣port of Calvelcy Esquire; Mary, third Daughter, married one Colonel Finch, 1651. an Officer for the Parliament-Party against the King, and are both now living in Ire∣land, 1666. Elizabeth, fourth Daughter, died unmarried; Anne, the youngest Daugh∣ter, married Robert Sanford of Sanford in Shropshire Esquire, 1648.

This Peter Daniell was one of the Knights of this County for the Parliament, 1625. and died the eighteenth day of April, 1652. aged 68 Years, and was buried at Great-Budworth. Christian his Wife survived, and died 1663.

XII. Peter Daniell of Over-Tabley, the younger, Esquire, Son and Heir of Peter and Christian, married Sarah Daughter of Richard Wilcocks of London, and had Issue Thomas, Son and Heir; Sarah died in her Infancy; and Margaret, another Daughter.

This Peter the Son died at Oxford, of a Shot received at the Siege of Glocester, 1643. in the life-time of his Father, being at that time a Captain of a Foot-Compa∣ny in the Regiment of John Earl Rivers, raised on the King's Part.

Sarah his Widow afterwards married Robert Hyde of Nantwich, one of the Seque∣strators of Cheshire for the Parliament, 1651. but she had no Issue by him.

XIII. Thomas Daniell of Over-Tabley Esquire, Son and Heir of Peter and Sarah, married Alice Daughter of William Smith, alias Nevill, second Brother of Henry Nevill of Holt in Leycestershire; and hath Issue Samuel, Thomas, Nevill, Peter, and Sarah, all living 1666. William, the fourth Son, died young.

Tatton.

IN the Reign of William the Conqueror, William Fitz-Nigell Baron of Halton held one half of Tatton, which one Erchbrand held formerly.

And Ranulfus (the supposed Ancestor of the Manwarings) held the other half, which one Leuvinus held before: So the Record of Doomsday-book informs us.

About one hundred Years afterwards, I find Alanus de Matton possessed of the Ma∣nor of Tatton: And Alanus Filius Alani de Tatton stiled himself in his Chartes, Dominus de Tatton; who assumed the Sir-name of Tatton from this Place of their Residency here, which their Posterity retained: For Sir-names in those elder Ages were not taken up generally; but Men were denominated usually of the Places where they lived; and that by Continuance at last became a Sir-name.

VVilliam, Son of VVilliam, Son of Quenild de Tatton, granted a great part of Tat∣ton unto Sir Richard Massy and Isabel his Wife, about the Year of Christ 1286. which Peter Hackham, then Prior of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem in England, con∣firmed.

Placita ante Festum Sancti Dunstani, 16 Edw. 2. apud Cestriam; upon a Distress by Hamon Massy, Baron of Dunham-Massy, on the Goods of Robert Massy of Tatton, taken in Tatton aforesaid, Hamon pleads, That Nicolas de Audley held the Manor of Tatton of him the said Hamon by Knights Service, and by working at his Castle of Dunham, and by the Service of Sixty Shillings yearly Rent: Of which Services the said Hamon was seised by the Hands of the said Nicolas de Audley: Which Three Pound yearly Rent, Sir James Audley of Heelegh-Castle in Staffordshire released afterwards to Sir John Massy of Tatton, 1 Rich. 2. 1377. for which Sir John gave him two Messuages in VVrenbury in Cheshire.

Also it appears that Nicolas de Alditheley (or Audley) granted to Sir Richard Massy, and Isabel his Wife, all his Lands in Tatton and Owlarton: Testibus Reginaldo de Grey Justiciario Cestriae, Johanne Filio suo, Radulfo de Vernon, Hamone de Massy, VVillielmo

de Venables Militibus, Roberto le Grosvenour Vicecomite Gestershiriae,—&c. This was about 1286. The Original of which Deed is now among the Evidences of the Earl of Bridgewater, 1667.

So that it should seem to me, that in the Reign of Edward the First, one Moiety of Tatton was held of the Baron of Dunham-Massy, and the other Moiety of the Prior of St. John of Hierusalem. That of the Fee of John of Hierusalem, probably was the Moiety that in the Conqueror's Time belonged to the Barony of Halton.

It is manifest by Deed, That Alan Son of Alan de Tatton Released to Helen Manwa∣ring and her Heirs, and to Robert Manwaring and his Heirs, sequelam Halmoti mei de Tatton. under Henry the Third: Lib. C. fol. 135. num. 34.

So that Alan de Tatton seems to have the Royalty of all Tatton; and he grants the Land called Bruchel, in Tatton, unto William Son of William Massy: Ibid. num. 36. But whether he had any more than a Moiety of the Town, I cannot affirm; in regard we see above, William Son of William Son of Quenild of Tatton had a good part.

How, and when,* 50.7 this Manor of Tatton was given to be held of the Priory of St. John's of Hierusalem; or whether onely a Moiety thereof, or the whole Township be so held, I find not yet to affirm positively. Certain it is, that Sir Richard Massy was possessed of all or most part of Tatton, in the Reign of King Edward the First, by Purchases of several Parcels; whose Heirs are now possessed of the whole Manor, 1667. which the following Pedegree will more clearly manifest.

Charterers in Tatton, 1662.

• 1. John Brown of Tatton: His Free-hold Land in Tatton was lately bought from John Bentley of The Hole in Mere.
• 2. Edward Hewet of Mobberley hath Free-hold Lands in Tatton: But now (1667.) Richard Parker hath this Land, in Right of Jane his Wife, Daughter of the said Edward Hewet; to his other Daughters he gave Portions.
• 3. Edward Allen of Rosthorn hath also certain Free-hold Land in Tatton.

The Descent of the Massies of Tatton.

I. William Massy, younger Brother to Hamon Massy Baron of Dunham-Massy.

II. William Massy, Son of William, to whom Alan

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Son of Alan of Tatton gave the Lands in Tatton cal∣led Bruchel, bounding the same in his Deed; Ren∣dring a Pair of White Gloves yearly on the Feast-day of the Nativity of St. John Baptist, (Sub Hen. 3.) Lib. C. fol. 105. num. 36.

He married Margery Domina de Rosthorn: I guess she may be Daughter to Robert de Manwaring, and Sister and Heir to Hugh Manwaring Lord of Rosthorn, or Lord of one Moiety at least; and Lord of the Moiety of Norshagh in Tatton: Lib. C. fol. 105. num. 40, 41.

He was stiled Sir William Massy, 1270. and had Issue Richard, Son and Heir; Robert Massy of Rosthorn, second Son, afterwards Heir to his Brother; Thomas, another Son, living 1270. Lib. C. fol. 104. num. 25.b. And Hawise, a Daughter, married Richard de Ferneley: Lib. A. fol. 140.o.

This William Massy died about the beginning of Edw. 1.

III. Sir Richard Massy of Tatton Knight, Son and Heir of Sir William, married Isa∣bel Daughter of—

He Purchased out most of the Lands remaining in Tatton, 1286. He was Sheriff of Cheshire, 6 Edw. 1. 1278. and Judge of Chester, 28 Edw. 1. 1300. He was Knighted about 14 Edw. 1. for then I first find him so stiled; unto whom was granted liberty of Free-Warren in all his Demain-Lands of Rosthorn, Tatton, Owlarton, Legh, Timper∣ley, and Hale, in Cheshire; Dated at Westminster, 4 die Decembris, 22 Edw. 1. 1294.

Sir Richard died without Issue on Tuesday in the Easter-week, Anno Domini 1305. 33 Edw. 1. leaving Robert Massy his Brother to succeed in his Inheritance.

Isabel his Widow survived him.

IV. Robert Massy of Tatton, Brother and Heir to Sir Richard, married _____ _____ and had Issue William Massy, eldest Son; Hamon Massy, another Son, Escheator of Cheshire. 6 Edw. 3. 1332. O. num. 1. and he married Katharine Daughter and Heir of Alan Rixton of Rixton in Lancashire, 6 Edw. 3. Lib. C. fol. 292. num. 1, 3, 11. stiled afterwards Sir Hamon Massy, 1347. 21 Edw. 3. from whom the Massies of Rixton in Lancashire: Adam Massy, another Son, to whom his Father gave the Custody of the Lands of Norshagh in Tatton, belonging to Raufe (Son of William de Mobberley) till Raufe came to Age: Dated 1 Edw. 3. 1327. Lib. C. fol. 103. num. 9. Robert Massy, another Son, 15 Edw. 3.

Robert Massy of Tatton died about 1328. 2 Edw. 3.

V. Sir William Massy of Tatton Knight, 1335. Son and Heir of Robert, married Margery Daughter of Thomas Legh of High-Legh de West-Hall: Lib. C. fol. 267. num. 12. This was about 1307. And had Issue Hugh Massy, Son and Heir; Oliver Massy of Den∣field in Rosthorn, another Son, from whom the Massies of Denfield; Richard Massy of Dich-house in Rosthorn, another Son; Ellen, a Daughter, married Gilbert Hassall of Hassall in Lancashire; afterwards to Sir William Brereton of Brereton in Cheshire.

Sir William Massy died the second of May, 1338. 12 Edw. 3.

VI. Hugh Massy of Tatton, Son and Heir of Sir William, had to Wife Alice Daugh∣ter of _____ _____ and had Issue Richard Massy, Son and Heir, who married Alice Daughter of Gibert de Haydok in Lancashire, 16 Edw. 3. 1342. but died without Issue 3 die Septembris, 1370. 44 Edw. 3. And John Massy, another Son, who succeeded Heir to his Father.

This Hugh Massy died before 49 Edw. 3. about 45 Edw. 3. 1371.

VII. Sir John Massy of Tatton Knight, Son and Heir of Hugh, married Alice Sister and Heir to Sir Geffrey Worseley of Worseley in Lancashire, about 46 Edw. 3. and had Issue Thomas, eldest Son, who married Margaret Daughter of _____ _____ but died without Issue, on St. Bartholomew's day, 1420. 8 Hen. 5. afterwards Marga∣ret married Sir John Gresley: Geffrey Massy, second Son, succeeded Heir to his Brother Thomas; Richard Massy, third Son: These are warranted by Deeds. But I find men∣tion, in an old Pedegree, of three other Sons, Hugh, John, and Lawrence; also Joan, married first to Sir William Venables of Bollin-Fee in Maxfield-Hundred, and after to Sir Oliver Stanley; Margery married Sir John Bromley of Badington in Cheshire.

Sir Geffrey Worseley before-mentioned married Mary Daughter of Sir Thomas Felton; which Mary being divorced, entred into a Nunnery: Then he took to Wife Isabel Stanley, by whom he had Issue Elizabeth. After the death of Sir Geffrey VVorseley, Mary came out, and proved she entred for fear, and that she was divorced upon a fained ground, and proved Elizabeth to be Illegitimate: And the Pope confirms her Return into Secularity.

Sir John Massy of Tatton was Sheriff of Cheshire 11 Rich. 2. 1387. and also 13 Rich. 2. 1390. He and Thomas his eldest Son were attainted 1 Hen. 4.

Sir John died 1403. 22 July, 4 Hen. 4. Probably he was slain at the Battel of Shrewsbury, taking Part with Henry Percy against Henry the Fourth; for that Battel was sought the Eve before Mary Magdalen's day.

Alice the Widow of Sir John Massy died 6 Hen. 6. in the beginning of October, 1427.

VIII. Sir Geffrey Massy of Tatton Knight, Son to Sir John, and Heir to his Bro∣ther Thomas, married Margery Daughter of John Hilton of Farnworth in Lancashire.

This Sir Geffrey died 4 die Octobris, 1457. 36 Hen. 6. aged 70 Years, without any lawful Issue surviving.

I find he had a Bastard-son, called John Massy, living 31 Hen. 6.

IX. William Massy of Tatton Esquire, Son and Heir of Richard Massy, Brother to Sir G••offrey, married _____ _____ and had Issue Geffrey Massy, Son and Heir; Thomas, second Son; and Richard, third Son.

This William Massy died in Festo Epiphaniae, 1467. 7 Edw. 4. and had a Brother called Geffrey Massy, as well as a Son of that Name.

X. Sir Geffrey Massy of Tatton Knight, Son and Heir of William, married Isabel Daughter of Sir John Butler of Bewsy nigh Warrington in Lancashire, 31 Hen. 6. 1453. and had Issue onely one Daughter and Heir, called Joan.

Sir Geffrey was living 15 Edw. 4. 1475. Q. num. 7.

XI. William Stanley of Tatton Esquire, in Right of Joan his Wife, Daughter and Heir of Sir Geffrey Massy, was Son and Heir of Sir William Stanley of Holt-Castle in Denbigh-shire; and had Issue onely one Daughter and Heir, called also Joan; in La∣tin she is stiled Johanna. Joan and Jane in 32 Eliz. were agreed to be all one Name by the Court of the King's Bench: Cambden in his Remains, on the Name Jane, pag. 98.

This Sir William Stanley of Holt was Lord Chamberlain to Hen. 7. and Brother to Thomas Stanley the first Earl of Darby of that Family; which Sir William was Be∣headed 1495. as supposed to encline to the Part of Perkin Warbeck: See Crokes Re∣ports, 4 Car. 1. pag. 123, 124. whose Lands and Goods were all Confiscated to the King. He had in ready Money and Plate, in his Castle of Holt, forty thousand Marks, besides Jewels, Houshold-stuff, and Stock of Cattel in his Grounds. He had in Lands 3000l. per Annum of an old Rent, as my Lord Bacon saith in his History of Henry the Seventh. He aspired to Petition the King for the Earldom of Chester, which ended both in a denial, and a distaste. He had by Joyce his Wife, Daughter of Edward Lord Powys, and Widow of John Tiptoft, William Stanley before-mentioned; and Jane, married to Sir John Warburton of Arley in Cheshire, one of the Knights of the Body to Henry the Seventh.

William Stanley of Tatton died about 14 Hen. 7. 1498. Joan his Widow after∣wards married Sir Edward Pickering, 16 Hen. 7. 1500. And lastly, she married Sir John Brereton to her third Husband, living 24 Hen. 7. And Joan died 3 Hen. 8. 1511.

XII. Joan, sole Daughter and Heir of William Stanley by Joan Massy his Wife, had two Husbands.

First she married John Ashton, Son and Heir of Sir Thomas Ashton of Ashton super Mer∣sey in Cheshire, 16 Hen. 7. She was then but eight Years old. This John Ashton died young, without any Issue by her, 5 Hen. 8. 1513.

Afterwards she married Sir Richard Brereton, younger Son of Sir Randle Brereton of Malpas in Cheshire; by whom she had Issue Richard Brereton, eldest Son, who married Dorothy Daughter of Thurstan de Tildesley in Lancashire Esquire, 35 Hen. 8. 1543. But he died without Issue about 4 Edw. 6. Geffrey Brereton, second Son, succeeded Heir: Anne Brereton, a Daughter, married John Booth of Barton in Lancashire Esq 32 Hen. 8. 1540. X. num. 26.

This Lady Jane Brereton died the sixth of April, 12 Eliz. 1570. aged 77 Years.

Sir Richard Brereton her Husband died at Islington in Middlesex, 3 & 4 Phil. & Mar. 1557. Geffrey his Son and Heir being then of full Age.

XIII. Geffrey Brereton of Tatton Esquire, Son and Heir of Sir Richard Brereton and Jane Stanley, married Alice, Daughter of Piers Leycester of Nether-Tabley Esq 5. Edw. 6. 1551. A. num. 35. and had Issue Richard Brereton Son and Heir, and Anne a Daughter, living 8 Eliz. who died without Issue.

This Geffrey died in June 1565. 7 Eliz. about the age of thirty Years. Alice his Wi∣dow afterwards married Robert Charnocke Gentleman; and she died the second of April 1572. 14 Eliz.

XIV. Richard Brereton of Tatton Esquire, Son and Heir of Geffrey and Alice, mar∣ried Dorothy, Daughter of Sir Richard Egerton of Ridley in Cheshire, 14 Eliz. 1572. but died without Issue December 18. 41 Eliz. 1598. Dorothy his Widow afterwards mar∣ried Sir Peter Legh of Lime in Cheshire, but had no Issue by him: She was second Wife to Sir Peter, and survived both her Husbands; and she died the fourth of April 1639.

This Richard Setled all his Estate on Sir Thomas Egerton, Lord Chancellor of Eng∣land; from whom the Earls of Bridgewater are descended, who are now Owners of these Lands, 1667.

Thelwall.

IN the Year of Christ 920. King Edward, sirnamed The Elder, built a Town here at Thelwall, though now an obscure Village; so called, Teste Forilego, from the Stakes and Stumps cut from the Trees, wherewith they had environed it about, as a Wall: for the Saxons called such Stakes Thell; and the word Wall is a word yet used for a high Fence that encompasseth any Place about with Stone, or other thing or Building. So Cambden's Britannia, Cheshire. Polychronicon, lib. 6. cap. 5. ad finem: and that King Edward made it a Garrison, and placed Soldiers therein; wherewith also agrees Florentius Wigorniensis. But it seems to lie waste in the time of the Conqueror; for I find no mention of it in Dooms-day Book.

Roger of Poictou (Son of Rogerde Montgomery the first Earl of Shrewsbury) was Lord of all the Land in Lancashire, between the Rivers of Ribble and Mersey; and gave half of the Fishing of Thelwall to the Abbot of Shrewsbury, under Henry the First. Monasticon, vol. 1. pag. 383. This was the Fishing on the Lancashire side.

The Prior of Norton had the other half of the Fishing of Thelwall on the Cheshire side, granted by William Constable of Cheshire the younger, Baron of Halton, about the Reign of King Stephen. Monasticon, vol. 2. pag. 186.

In our Mize-book of Cheshire, anciently the Abbot of Salop stood charged with three Shillings in the Mize for Fishing in Thelwall: but this Mize is now totally lost, no Man now living being able to inform us who ought to pay the same. I conceive after the dissolution of Abbeys in England by Henry the Eighth, that Fishing coming to the King's hands, the Mize thereof ceased, being not at all paid of late Times, the Fish∣ing being then but of little value.

This Township of Thelwall is of the Fee of the Honor of Halton: one third part whereof William Constable of Cheshire gave to the Abbey of Salop, cum pertinentiis, in bosco, in plano, in aquâ. Monasticon, vol. 1. pag. 383.

In the Reign of Henry the Third, Edmund Lacy Baron of Halton and Constable of Cheshire, gave Domino Galfrido de Dutton (Ancestour to Warburton of Arley) totam terram suam de Thelwall cum Wera, & Piscaria, & Stallagiis suis: and also all the Land which he had of the Abbot and Convent of Evesham in Thelwall: Reddendo inde annuatim unam Par Cheirothecarum Cervi Furratarum ad Festum Sancti Michaelis pro omni Servitio. Lib. C. in ipso initio,* 50.8 fol. 1.f. This could be but two third parts of Thelwall. The Original of this Deed is now in possession of Mr. Pickering of Thelwall, 1666.

This Geffrey Dutton gave these Lands to Thomas his younger Son. Ibidem g.

Afterwards it was possessed by Clayton in the Reign of Edward the Third, and conti∣nued in the possession of the Claytons, till John Clayton of Thelwall sold it to Richard Brooks of Norton Esquire, about 4 Eliz. 1561. whose Son Thomas Brooks of Norton Esquire, sold the same to John Moores Doctor of Physick in London, Anno Christi 1621. and John Moores of Kirtlington in Nottinghamshire, Nephew of Doctor Moores aforesaid, sold them to Robert Pickering Councellor at Law, 1662. who is now possessed of the Mannor of Thelwall, 1666.

In this Township of Thelwall are now, 1666. certain Freeholds of Inheritance pos∣sessed by these Persons following.

• 1. Sir Peter Brookes of Mere, hath four Tenements, which were given him by his Father Thomas Brookes of Norton Esquire, before he sold away the other Lands of Thelwall.
• 2. John Martinscroft of Thelwall: This hath for long time continued in the Name of Martinscroft, an ancient Freeholder.
• 3. Robert Legh of Thelwall, bought from Sir Edward Moores.
• 4. Peter Drinkwater, formerly one Massies.
• 5. Raufe Caldwell, Fee-Farmer.
• 6. John Rowson, Fee-Farmer.
• 7. Randle Bood, Fee-Farmer.
• 8. Margaret Hogge, Widow.
• 9. John Legh of Oughtrington in Limme, bought Lands in Thelwall from Sir Edward Moores.
• 10. Katharine Mosse, one Close.
• 11. Thomas Thomason, Fee-Farmer.
• 12. John Dunbabin, a Meadow.
• 13. Sir George Warburton of Arley, half an Acre of Meadow.

Here is a Chappel of Ease called Thelwall-Chappel, situate near to the Mannor-House of Thelwall, and within the Parochiall Chappelry of Daresbury, but both within the Limits of the Mother-Church of Runcorne.

This I conceive was built by Thomas Brookes Esquire, and was lately repaired by Mr. Pickering aforesaid, 1663.

Timperley.

IN the Rentall of Dunham-Massy, 3 Hen. 4. Ranulfus Manwaring tenet de jure Uxoris suae medietatem villae de Timperley cum clausura in eâdem, vocata Chenall, in Soccagio: & reddit per annum termino Johannis Baptistae duodecem denarios: Et de Stuth, alias dictum Sheriffe-Tooth, 2 d. ob. This Randle Manwaring of Over-Pever, married Margery the Widow of Richard Buckley of Chedle; and so in her Right, during her Life, held the Moiety of Timperley; which belonged to the Buckleys of Chedle, and at this day, 1666. belongs to Buckley of Chedle, being anciently of the Fee of the Barons of Dunham-Massy.

The other Moiety formerly belonged to the Ardernes of Timperley: which Moiety Charles Arderne, younger Son of John Arderne of Harden in Maxfield Hundred Esquire, had by the Marriage of Elizabeth the Daughter of Richard Ratcliffe Lord of Backford.

Sir William Booth of Dunham-Massy, bought certain Lands in Timperley, and the fourth part of Timperley-Mosse from John Parr junior and Alice his Wife, in exchange for Lands in Stoke, Picton, and Chester, 2 Edw. 4. 1462. Lib. C. fol. 253.l. And Tim∣perley-Mosse and Common was divided October 28. 15 Edw. 4. 1475. one fourth part to Sir William Booth; another fourth part to John Arderne, Son and Heir of of Charles Arderne late deceased, by Elizabeth his Wife then Widow surviving; and the other

half of Timperley-Mosse and Common to William Buckley Esquire, ibidem fol. 253. m. The Originals among the Evidences of the Lord Delamere of Dunham-Massy, 1666.

So that the Lord Delamere hath now the fourth part of Timperley; and another fourth part now belongs to Sir Amos Meredeth, in Right of Anne his Wife, Daughter of Ro∣bert Tatton of Witthenshaw in Cheshire Esquire. On which Anne and her Heirs Mrs. Bar∣lowe (one of the Sisters and Coheirs to Thomas Brereton, late of Ashley deceased) hath setled her part; unto whose share the Lands of Timperley, which belonged to Brereton, are solely with other Lands allotted. These Lands came first to Brereton by Sibill, Daughter and Heir of William Arderne of Timperley, Wife of George Brereton of Ashley. William Arderne died August 28. 26 Eliz. 1584.

And the other Moiety of Timperley belongeth to Buckley of Chedle, as aforesaid.

Charterers now in Timperley, 1666.

• 1. Thomas Gerard of Riddings in Timperley Gentleman. These Freehold-lands be∣longed to Vawdrey of Riddings, and were not long since purchased by the said Thomas Gerard. These Lands were originally granted away by John Arderne of Timperley, and Thomas his Son and Heir, unto Thomas Vawdrey and his Heirs, rendring yearly 1l. 13s. 4d. Dated the tenth of August, 13 Hen. 7. 1498. Lib. B. pag. 37. The Original in the possession of Thomas Gerard aforesaid.
• 2. William Steele of Nether-Knotsford, hath three Cottages in Timperley: These for∣merly belonged to the Riddings.
• 3. George Ward of London, one Cottage, formerly belonging to the Riddings.
• 4. Peter Parker of Altrincham, hath about an Acre in Timperley, formerly belonging to the Riddings.
• 5. Robert Hield of Etchells, one Cottage in Timperley.

Toft.

THis Township of Toft is not found in Dooms-day Book; wherefore it seems to be Waste at that time. The word Toft signifies a parcel of Land wherein a House hath stood. Cambdens Remains, pag. 120. and in that sence it was taken by the Judges and expounded, 2 & 3 Philip & Mary. Plowdens Commentaries, Hill envers Graunge, pag. 170.

This Town gave Name to the Family of the Tofts, who in ancient Time were seated here: One Moiety thereof is held of the Barony of Halton in Soccage, by the yearly Rent of seven Shillings: and the other half is held of the ancient Barons of Dunham-Massy in Soccage, by the yearly Rent of five Shillings: for so I find it in John Leycester of Toft's Office, 2 Hen. 8. and in other Offices downwards: which Rents are paid at this day, 1672. Howbeit, in an ancient Feodary of Halton under Edward the Second it is said —Rogerus de Toft, tenet Villam de Toft pro vicesima parte unius Feodi Militis. Yet I find among the Evidences of Toft, T. num. 14. a little Parchment, about the time of the beginning of Edward the Third's Reign, in Latin, and by me here ren∣dred in English, as followeth:

HUgh de Toft confesseth that he holdeth of the Earl of Lancaster, Lord of Halton, the one Moiety of the Township of Toft, by the twentieth part of a Knight's Fee, by Homage and Fealty, and the yearly Rent of Seven Shillings, to be paid to Halton on Mar∣tlemas-day; and that he oweth Suit of Court to Halton for the same, de Quindena in Quindenam (that is, every Fortnight) upon notice: And will appear at the Court of Pas∣sage or Fare; and ought to pay 12 d. to the Serjeants of Halton—and 4d. for Market-Gold.

And I find alsa among the Evidences of Toft, that the Moiety of Toft belonging

to the Barons of Dunham-Massy was scattered into several Parcels: For Hamon de Massy granteth to Arnold de Toft the Third Part of his Moiety of Toft, rendring the yearly Rent of Twenty Pence, about the Reign of King John: T. num. 3. This third Part of that Moiety, Benedict the Son of Orme, the Son of Arnold de Toft, re∣leased unto Roger de Toft, Anno 18 Hen. 3. 1234. T. num. 6. Confirmed by Hamon Massy, T. num. 4.

Gervase Son of Hugh of Mobberley also releaseth to Walter de Toft the Right which he hath to the sixth Part of the Township of Toft: T. num. 1. And after releaseth to Roger Son of Walter Toft all his Right in the whole Township of Toft, about 15 Hen. 3. 1230. T. num. 2.

Robert Son of Wentlyan releaseth also to Roger Son of Walter de Toft his Moiety of another third Part of the whole Moiety of Toft, about 1230. T. num. 8. This Moiety of a third Part, Robert Son of Wentlyan had in Free-Marriage with Alice his Wife, Daughter of one Hugh de Toft: T. num. 7. And by this Deed it appears, that this Hugh de Toft then had the other Moiety of that third Part in his possession.

So that now Roger Son of Walter de Toft was possessed of most of the Town of Toft, under Henry the Third: And I find Roger Toft, Son of this Roger Toft, stiling him∣self Dominus de Toft, Anno Domini 1298. 26 Edw. 1. T. num. 9. to whose Posterity the Manor and Town of Toft hath continued ever since; that is to say, The Family of Toft of Toft continued till the end of the Reign of Henry the Sixth, above 250 Years; and then Robert Leycester (Son of Robert, Son of Joan, Daughter and Heir of Robert Toft of Toft Esquire) was possessed of the Manor of Toft, 2 Edw. 4. and hath since belonged to his Posterity, Rafe Leycester of Toft Esquire being now possessed of the same, Anno Domini 1672.

Charterers in Toft, Anno Domini 1672.

• 1. The Messuage late the Inheritance of Litler of Wallers-cote nigh Northwich; Randle Mores now Tenant.
• 2. John Stretch of Little-Pever hath now certain Freehold-Lands in Toft, which he lately purchased from John Downes late of Toft; and purchased by Downes for∣merly from Mainwaring of Pever: For in the Office taken after the death of Sir Randle Mainwaring of Over-Pever, 5 & 6 Phil. & Mar.—Tenuit terras in Toft de Radulfo Leycester Milite per fidelitatem & redditum decem Denariorum,—&c.

The Pedegree of Toft of Toft, collected out of the Evidences of Toft, 1672.

I. Walter de Toft. He assumed the Sir-name of

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Toft from the Place of his Habitation, as was the manner of those elder Ages; but of what Family descended, I cannot tell. He lived in the Reign of King Richard the First, and King John, and had Is∣sue a Son, called Roger de Toft.

II. Roger de Toft, Son of Walter de Toft. He lived Anno Domini 1230. and purchased several Lands in Toft, as I have before declared, T: num. 2. and T. num. 8. He had two Sons, Roger de Toft, and VVil∣liam de Toft; and Margaret, a Daughter, married VVilliam Son of Roger Manwaring, 1 Edw. 1. 1272. Lib. C. fol. 226.

VVilliam de Toft, younger Son of this Roger, mar∣ried Joan Sister of Richard de Lostock-Gralam the younger, Son of Richard de Lostock, 5 Edw. 1. 1277. Lib. C. fol. 228.b. This Joan

became Heir to her Brothers, Richard and Thomas, who both died without Issue; but she had Issue by this William, Roger de Holford, who living at Holford, gained the Sir-name of Holford; which his Posterity retained, and from whom the Holford's of Hol∣ford are descended. Lib. C. fol. 229. K. o. She had two other Husbands; of whom see more in Plumley.

Note, That John Holford under Richard the Second, Sealed with Tofts Coat, dif∣ferenced with a Cheveron, as I have seen in sundry of his Seals, to wit, Argent, a Che∣veron between three Text Tees Sable: but Toft of Toft's Coat is Argent, three Text Tees, without a Cheveron.

III. Roger Toft of Toft, Son of Roger, married Beatrix, Daughter of Hugh Venables of Kinderton, about the very beginning of Edward the First; to whom her Father gave Land in Rusford in Kinderton, beyond the Brook towards Sproston. Lib. C. fol. 225. e. and had Issue Roger, Son and Heir, Richard living 6 Edw. 2. Hugh died before 9 Edw. 2. Lib. C. fol. 215. K. Thomas living 9 Edw. 2. & Hamon Toft. also Henry Toft another Son. T. num. 12.

IV. Roger Toft of Toft, Son and Heir of Roger, married Margery, Daughter of Tho∣mas Wever of Weever in Cheshire, Anno Dom. 1298. 26 Edw. 1. T. num. 9, 10, 11. and had Issue Hugh Toft; Thomas Toft, who married Margaret, to whom Sir Rafe Mob∣berley gave his Mannor-House in Plumley, 1357. 31 Edw. 3. T. num. 24. Lib. C. fol. 226. v. William Toft another Son, T. num. 13. 16 Edw. 3. Margaret Toft, Sister of Hugh Toft, 16 Rich. 2. Lib. C. fol. 226.w.

V. Hugh Toft of Toft, Son of Roger, married Felice, Daughter of Thomas de Donsta∣ble, 19 Edw. 2. 1325. Lib. C. fol. 225. K. and had Issue Robert de Toft; Roger de Toft, living 2 Hen. 5. & 8 Hen. 5. Emme, a Daughter, married Thomas, Son of Sir Hamon Ashley of Ashley in Bowdon Parish, 1359. 33 Ed. 3. John Booths Book, Lib. H. pag. 110.d.

It seemeth that Roger Toft was elder Brother to Robert, T. num. 46. and had no Issue-male at least.

This Hugh de Toft gave to Sir Hugh Venables all his Lands in Kinderton and Sproston (which Lands were given by Venables to his Grandmother) in exchange for the sixth part of Bexton, 1359. 34 Edw. 3. B. num. 12. Lib. C. fol. 226.l.

Sir John Seyvill Knight, Brother of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem, and pro∣curer of the Pardon or Indulgence of the Castle of St. Peter (by virtue of this Indul∣gence of Pope Alexander the Fifth, granted to all those who have put to their helping hand to the fortification of the said Castle, that they shall chuse themselves a Confes∣sor) now granteth to Hugh de Toft and Alice his Wife, because of their Charity and Aid towards the said Castle, full liberty by the Pope's Authority, to chuse themselves a Confessor; whereunto the Seal of the Indulgence for the said Castle is affixed: Dated apud Templum Bruer; Anno Domini 1412. And on the back of the said Deed is written in Latin, which I have here put into English as followeth,—

THe Lord Jesus Christ, who hath given to his Disciples power of binding and loosing, absolve thee; and I by the Apostolical Authority of St. Paul, and the whole Mother-Church, by the help of both which and the Popes Indulgence, do absolve thee from all thy sins, of which by contrition thou hast confessed, or hereafter shalt confess—And I grant thee full re∣mission of all thy sins, that thou mayest have eternal life for ever. Amen. And if it happen that thou recover not this present Infirmity, I reserve it for thee even in the very point of death. T. num. 48.

By which Deed it may seem that Hugh de Toft had a later Wife called Alice, and that he died Anno 1412. or thereabout. T. num. 44. Quaere if John de Holford did not afterwards marry this Alice. T. num. 35.

Robert Toft of Toft, Son of Hugh, married Cicely the Widow of John Clark of Hawar∣den, and had Issue Roger de Toft, who died without Issue; and Jone married Rafe Ley∣cester, younger Brother to John Leycester of Tabley: Howbeit, her Issue was not posses∣sed of the Mannor of Toft till after the death of her Father and Brother, about the end of the Reign of Henry the Sixth. T. num. 78. T. num. 47. T. num. 51.

John Bishop of Coventry and Lichfield (this was John Burghill) granted to Robert de Toft and Cicely his Wife, liberty of keeping a Chaplain for celebrating of Divine Duties in their private Oratories. Dated in our City of Lichfield, December 21. 1398. 22 Rich. 2. T. num. 39.

And it seemeth to be this Robert de Toft who was Constable of the Castle of Halton in Cheshire, and received 40l. 00s. 00d. at Chester by the hands of William de Al∣cumlow, Bailiff of the Sergeanty of Halton, from Robert Paris, then the Kings Auditor at Chester, the 2••. day of July, 23 Rich. 2. for the Ward and Custody of the said Castle, for himself and divers Esquires and Archers, then being in the said Castle by the ap∣pointment of the King's Council. T. num. 80.

So ended the Family of Toft of Toft.

The Descent of Leycester of Toft, collected carefully out of the Evidences of that Family, 1672.

I. Rafe Leycester, younger Brother of John Leyce∣ster

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

of Tabley, married Jone, Daughter and Heir of Robert Toft of Toft: She was Widow 14 Rich. 2. 1390. and Rafe died between Michaelmas-day and the twelfth of October, in the fourth Year of the Reign of King Richard the Second. C. num. 22, 23.

The first of the Issue of Joan that possessed the Mannor of Toft whom I meet withal, was Robert Ley∣cester, Son of Robert, Son of this Rafe and Joan, and that 2 Edw. 4. 1462. T. num. 51. for that till about this time Robert Toft Father of Joan, survived, or Roger his Son.

When John Leycester of Nether-Tabley sold away all his Right and Title to the Moiety of the Mannor of Mobberley, with the Advowson of the Church of Mobberley, unto John Dumvill of Mobberley and Ciceley his Wife, 1 Rich. 2. 1377. (which Lands were Setled on the said John Leycester by Sir Rafe Mobberley of Mobberley his Uncle, by Feoffees intrusted, Anno Domini 1359. M. num. 32. and M. num. 33. and T. num. 31.) It was then agreed, That one third part of that Moiety should descend to Rafe Leycester his Brother, after the death of John Dumvill and Cicely: which was Estated accordingly by Thomas Fitton of Gowesworth, and other Feoffees intrusted, (after division thereof made) by the Name of 15 Mes∣suages, two parts of a Messuage 316 Acres, half an Acre, half a quarter of an Acre, ten Perches and half a Perch of Land, sixteen Acres of Wood, one quarter and five Perches, eight Acres of Moss, the third part of a Water-Mill, and the third part of all the Wastes of Mobberly then unmeasured, together with the Rent and Services of the said Rafe Leycester and William Dawson in Mobberley; to hold to John Dumvill and Cicely his Wife for their Lives—and after their Deaths then to remain to Rafe Leycester and the Heirs-males of his Body; and if Rafe die without Heir-male of his Body, then to remain to the right Heirs of Cicely aforesaid for ever: Dated at Mobberley on Tuesday in the Feast of St. Petronill the Virgin, 2 Rich. 2. 1378. M. num. 34. And Rafe Leycester had 15l. 00s. 00d. annual Rent Estated on him, during the Lives of the said John Dumvill and Cicely, out of all the Lands in Mobberley by Fine Levied to the said Feoffees, 1 Rich. 2. M. num. 2. & M. num. 3. which Lands of Mobberley so Setled on this Rafe Leycester, are now in possession of Leycester of Toft, 1672.

So that it seems Rafe Leycester aforesaid, had one Messuage in Mobberley by the Grant of Nicholas Leycester his Father, and Mary his Mother, before these other Lands were Estated on him in Mobberley, M. num. 39. and he purchased William Dawson's Land in Mobberley after the Settlement aforesaid, to wit, 3 Rich. 2. M. num. 27, 28.

But the third part of the Mill in the Settlement mentioned Robert Leycester sold to John Troutback. 18 Hen. 6. M. num. 13.

This Rafe Leycester and Joan his Wife, had Issue Robert Leycester, who succeeded Heir; and Roger Leycester living, 18 Rich. 2. E. num. 1. among the Evidences of Ley∣cester of Tabley.

Now that this Rafe Leycester was younger Brother to John Leycester of Nether-Tabley, appears by their Examinations taken on the part of Robert Grosvenour of Hulme, against Scroop, concerning the bearing of a Coat of Arms, Anno Domini 1386. 10 Rich. 2. where John Leycester is said to be then forty six years old, and Rafe Leycester forty years old. Lib. C. fol. 126. KK. II. The Original upon Record in the Tower of Lon∣don, called The Bundle inter Scroop & Grosvenour: A Copy of which Record, transcri∣bed in a great Book, remains now with Grosvenour of Eaton-boate in Cheshire.

As also, that the ancient Lands of the Leycesters remain at this day, 1672. in the possession of Leycester of Tabley; which must have descended to the Heirs of this Rafe, if he had been the elder Brother.

Again in the Deeds of Toft, M. num. 10. mentioning the Partition of the Lands in Mobberley, between John Dumvill and Cicely his Wife on the one part, and John Leycester and Rafe his Brother on the other part: for if Rafe Leycester had been the el∣der Brother, it would have been said betwixt Rafe Leycester and John his Brother.

And lastly, That Leycester of Toft beareth his Coat of Arms at this day with a di∣stinction from the Coat-Armour of Leycester of Tabley, by adding a Fret upon the Fess: and omnis additio probat minoritatem.

But of this enough; which I rather mention, least any should judge me partial in my own Cause, without certain Grounds of Truth.

This Rafe Leycester had Lands in Chorley juxta Warford, by the Grant of Mary his Mother.

II Robert Leycester, Son and Heir of Rafe, married _____ _____ and had Issue Robert Son and Heir, Randle second Son, and John third Son, living 11 Hen. 4. C. num. 11.

This Randle Leycester, second Son, married Isabel Daughter and Coheir of David Crew of Pulcroft; from whom the Leycesters of Poole in Nantwich Hundred are descen∣ded, as appears by the Evidences of that Family. This Randle died Anno Dom. 1438. whose Posterity continued here until Richard Leycester, late Mayor of Chester, and Al∣derman of that City, having no Issue, gave all his Lands in Poole to Sir Henry Delves of Dodington Baronet, in Marriage with Mary his Neece, Daughter of Randle Leycester his late Brother. This Lady Mary Delves was second Wife of Sir Henry, and was Widow 1666. but had no Issue by Sir Henry. But these Lands are Setled to descend to ano∣ther Leycester sprung from that Family, after the Death of the said Mary without Issue.

III. Robert Leycester of Toft Esquire, Son of Robert, is the first of this Family whom I find stiled De Toft, and possessed of the same, to wit, 2 Edw. 4. 1462. T. num. 51.

He married Jane, Daughter and Coheir of Rafe Booth, younger Son of Sir Robert Booth of Dunham-Massy, whom the said Rafe begot on Margaret his Wife, Daughter and Heir of Thomas Sibell of Sandwich in Kent.

This Robert had Issue Rafe Leycester, Robert another Son, living 1 Hen. 7. John ano∣ther Son, 12 Hen. 8. Agnes a Daughter, married to John Birtles of Birtles nigh Over-Alderley, 6. Edw. 4. 1466. M. num. 14. Lib. A. fol. 133. e, f, g, h, i, k.

This Robert Leycester and John Legh of Booths, committed an Assault on Dennys Holland, Servant to Sir Geffrey Massy of Tatton, in the night-time, and chased and destroyed his

Deer in Tatton Park; for which they paid 20l. apiece. 20 Hen. 6. T. num. 79. by Award.

IV. Rafe Leycester Son and Heir of Robert, married Agnes Daughter of Robert Rat∣cliff, 17 Edw. 4. 1477. and had Issue John Leycester Son and Heir, and James Leyce∣ster, living 1 Hen. 7. Lib. A. fol. 133. H, I, K, L.

This Rafe died in the Life-time of his Father, to wit, 1 Hen. 7. 1485.

V. John Leycester of Toft Esquire, Son and Heir of Rafe, married Elinour, one of the Daughters and Coheirs of Sir James Harrington of Wolfage in Northamptonshire;* 50.9 and had Issue Rafe Leycester Son and Heir; Philip, another Son, who married Elizabeth the Widow of James Grimsditch of Grimsditch in Nether-Whitley. 27 Hen. 8. Lib. C. fol. 196. m. Geffrey Leycester, another Son, living 12 Hen. 1520. T. num. 89. Jane, a Daughter, married Robert Langton of Lowe in Lancashire Esquire, 14 Hen. 8. T. num. 88. I find also mentioned in a Pedegree two other Sons, Thomas and Richard; but I cannot yet prove them so directly as the other.

This John Leycester died 2 Hen. 8. 1511. Elinour survived, and was Widow 12 Hen. 8. 1520. T. num. 89. and 14 Hen. 8. T. num. 88. She was the ninth Daugh∣ter and Coheir, and had Lands in Bricklesworth in Northamptonshire: for Sir James had ten Daughters and Coheirs in all. Lib. A. fol. 133. m.n.

VI. Rafe Leycester of Toft Esquire, Son and Heir of John, married Ellen Daughter of Rafe Egerton of Ridley in Cheshire Esquire, 4 Hen. 7. 1489. Lib. A. fol. 133. l. & fol. 134. P. and had Issue Rafe Leycester Son and Heir.

This Rafe died 16 Hen. 8. 1525. aged 37 years. Afterwards Ellen his Widow mar∣ried Robert Honford of Chorley. Lib. A. fol. 134. r. & 135. T. Ellen survived both her Husbands, and was living 20 Hen. 8. C. num. 13.

VII. Sir Rafe Leycester of Toft Knight, Son and Heir of Rafe, was Knighted at Leith in Scotland the 11. day of May, 36 Hen. 1. 1544. at which time the Earl of Hertford, being then General, Knighted some other Cheshire Gentlemen, and several others also. So Stow in his Annals of that Year.

Sir Rafe had two Wives; the first was Ellen Daughter of Philip Legh of Boothes nigh Knotsford Esquire, 13 Hen. 8. T. num. 83. by whom he had Issue Rafe Leycester eldest Son, who died young. William Leycester second Son succeeded Heir.* 50.10 Lawrence Leycester, another Son, married Jane Daughter of John Warburton of Bromfield; and John, who died without Issue: Also Elizabeth married Sir Randle Manwaring of Over-Pever; she was his second Wife, but had no Issue by him: afterwards she married Sir Edmond Trafford of Trafford nigh Manchester. Anne, another Daughter, married Philip Manwaring, Brother and after Heir to Sir Randle aforesaid. Ellen died in her In∣fancy; and Mary married Hugh Calveley of Lea nigh Eaton-boate in Cheshire Esq

His second Wife was Jane, the Widow of John Edwards of Chirk in Denbighshire Esquire, and Daughter of Sir George Calveley of Lea, but had no Issue by her.

William Davenport of Chorley Gent. granted to this Sir Rafe Leycester the Office of Seneschall, or Stewardship of all his Lands in Chorley, Werford, and Fulshaw, and the Conduction, Governance, and Service in time of War called The Mauraden, as well of him the said William and his Heirs, as of all his Tenants: Dated 4. July, 4 & 5 Phil. & Ma,. C. num. 25. Also the like Deed made to Sir Rafe by Henry Bradshaw of Brad∣shawbrooke in Allostock, 1 & 2 Phil. & Mar. Also another such Deed made to Sir Rafe by John Hiccock of Nether-Pever, 1 & 2 Phil. & Mar. H. num. 25. H. num. 28. the Originals are in Latin. Hiccock's Land of Nether-Pever, is now Powdrell's and others. These I note for the rarity of the Deeds.

Sir Rafe also bought from William Bradshaw of Allostock, two Messuages in Allostock, Hulse, and Bancroft, by Fine, Levied at Chester the 27. of May, 1 & 2 Philip and Mary. F. num. 1.

He was entrusted for receiving certain Sums of Money by way of Loan in Denbigh∣shire, and for delivering such Privy-Seals as were sent unto him, as appears by the Queens Letter unto him, Dated the 30. of December, 5 Eliz. C. num. 33.

And I find that Gilbert Dethick, alias Norroy, Principal Herald and King of Arms of the North Parts of England from the River Trent Northward, gave to this Sir Rafe Leycester the Arms and Crest in manner following, to wit, Sable, on a Fess engrailed be∣tween three Falcons Silver volant, becked and membred Gold, a Lions Head Caboche Azure, langued and eared, between two Cups covered, Gules: upon his Helm, On a Torse Silver and Sable, a Roe-buck Party-Pale Gold and Gules, Horned of the second, holding in his Mouth an Acorn Branch, stalked and leafed vert, mantled Gules, doubled Silver: to hold for him and his Posterity, to their Honors for evermore: Dated the 15. of May, Anno 2. Edw. 6. two fair Seals appendant in woodden Boxes, the one being his own Arms, and the other the Seal of his Office as Norroy. T. num. 55. at which, I confess, I wonder, that he should seek for a Coat, as being ignorant of one due to him: and yet I have ob∣served, that among all the Deeds there is not any one to be found among the Deeds of Leycester of Toft hitherto, which hath any Coat of Arms at all in an Escutcheon affixed to any of their Deeds, or in any of their Seals, appropriated to Leycester of Toft: Howbeit, the Heralds of Chester have Recorded for them Leycester of Tabley's Coat with a difference, which indeed is most truly sutable.

This Sir Rafe Leycester sold away all his Purpart of the Manor of Brassingham in Nor∣folk, and Advowson of the Church there, to Francis Baldero and Edmund Wiseman Gen∣tlemen: Dated the first day of April, 4 Eliz. A. num. 1.

Upon some Difference between Sir Rafe and Dame Jane Legh, late Wife of Sir John Legh of Boothes deceased, it was agreed between Sir William Sneyd Knight, and the said Dame Jane Legh on the one part, and Sir Rafe Leycster Knight on the other part, by Deed dated the eighth of October, Anno primo Elizabethae, That Sir Rafe should not pursue any further Suit in the Court of Wards: in consideration where∣of, the said Sir Rafe and Dame Ellen his Wife should peaceably enjoy those Lands Demised to them, &c. and Sir Rafe to kill one fat Buck in Summer, and a Doe in Winter, out of the Park at Boothes, during the Minority of John Legh; and to have the keeping of a Horse in the same yearly. T. num. 92. But Anno quinto Elizabethae, Sir Rafe had a Grant from the Queen of certain parcels of Land, late the Inheritance of Sir John Legh deceased, and late the Joynture of the said Dame Jane, during the Minority of the Ward. C. num. 32.

Sir Rafe Leycester died 23. Februarii, 14 Eliz. 1572. aged 53 years. T. num. 59.

VIII. William Leycester of Toft Esquire, second Son and Heir of Sir Rafe, married Katharine, Daughter of John Edwards of Chirk in Denbighshire Esquire, and by her had Issue. Rafe Leycester, eldest Son, died without Issue; George Leycester, second Son, suc∣ceeded Heir; Jane, a Daughter, married Henry Davenport of Chorley Gent. 37 Eliz. C. num. 28. Anne, another Daughter; Ellen, another Daughter; Parnell or Petronill, another Daughter; these three were never married: and Mary, another Daughter, married Rowland Huntington, after to David Middleton of Chester, thirdly to George Cal∣veley, Bastard-Son to Sir George Calveley of Lea. C. num. 31.

Katharine the Wife of William Leycester, died Anno Domini 1572. 14 Eliz. C. num. 31. Afterwards William Leycester married Elizabeth, Daughter of Robert Worsley of Boothes in Lancashire.

This William sold away all his part of Bricklesworth in Northamptonshire, unto Thomas Barham of Teston in Kent Gent. for 300 l. by Deed dated the 29. of April, 20 Eliz. A. num. 2.

William Leycester of Toft died Novemb. 18. 32 Eliz. 1589. and was buried at Mob∣berley the 25. of November following, aged 48 years. T. num. 60.

IX. Sir George Leycester of Toft Knight, second Son and Heir of William, married Alice, eldest Daughter of Peter Leycester of Tabley Esq and Coheir to the Lands of Col∣wich

nigh Owseley-Bridge in Staffordshire, 22 Eliz. F. num. 9. which Lands descended in Right of their Mother Elizabeth, Daughter and Heir of Edward Colwich of Col∣wich Esquire.

Robert Earl of Leycester, Baron of Denbigh, &c. her Majesties Lieutenant, and Cap∣tain-General of all her Army and Forces in these Parts, and Governor-General of all the Provinces and Cities united, and their Associates in the Low-Countreys, for the good opinion we have of the fidelity of this Gentleman George Leycester our Servant, we have appointed him Captain of 150 Foot-men, and Hugh Starkey his Lieutenant, now Servant to Sir Christopher Hatton, &c. Given under my Hand and Seal at Amers∣ford the 15. of May 1586. T. num. 58.

Sir George was Knighted about 44 Eliz. and was made Sheriff of Cheshire by Patent dated Decemb. 29. 45 Eliz. but the Queen dying in March following, he had another Patent for the same durante beneplacito, Dated Apr. 3. 1 Jac. 1603. T. num. 63.

He had Issue William Leycester, who died at the Age of three years; George, second Son, who died at the Age of seven years; Rafe, third Son, succeeded Heir; also Elizabeth, eldest Daughter, died in her Infancy; Katharine married William Tatton of Withenshaw in Cheshire Esq F. num. 12. afterwards she married Doctor Nichols Parson of Chedle: Mary, another Daughter, married James Massy of Sale Esq 9 Jac. 1611. whose Wardship Sir George had. F. num. 33. Alice, another Daughter, married John Bradshaw of Bradshaw in Lancashire Esq

Sir George was buried at Mobberley Apr. 4. 1612. so the Register of that Church hath it: He was then aged about 45 years; a Person who had been very serviceable to his Countrey. He bought certain parcels of Land in Toft, from Randle Mainwaring of Over-Pever, Esquire, 33 Eliz. T. num. 61.

X. Rafe Leycester of Toft Esq third Son and Heir of Sir George, married Mary, Daugh∣ter of Anthony Woodhull of Mollington in Oxfordshire Esq and had Issue George Leycester Son and Heir; Rafe, second Son, died without Issue; Anthony, third Son, died without Issue; Mary, eldest Daughter, married Culvert Chambers of Oxfordshire, who bought the Castle of Carnow, and other Lands in Ireland; after whose Death she married Job Ward; and lastly to Colonel William Ayre, lately Imprisoned in Ireland; Jane, second Daughter, married Captain Conney, after to Thomas Hart of the Hart in Fetter-Lane in London; Townesend, third Daughter, married George Brown of Radbrooke in Over-Pever Gent. and had Issue George, Thomas, and other Children, but they all died before they came to maturity. F. num. 25, 26. F. num. 13, 14.

This Rafe sold his part of the Lands of Colwich, and the Advowson of that Church, and was buried at Mobberley the 17. of June 1640. Mary his Wife was buried also at Mobberley the 21. of September 1653.

XI. George Leycester of Toft Esq Son and Heir of Rafe, married Dorothy Daughter of John Clayton, and Sister and Coheir of Richard Clayton of Crooke in Lancashire Esq 14 Car. 1. 1639. F. num. 22. and hath Issue Rafe Leycester, eldest Son; George Leyce∣ster, second Son; Philip Leycester, third Son, who married Anne, Daughter and Coheir to Mr. Furnivall of Old-Withington deceased, Anno 1671. John, fourth Son, died with∣out Issue 1666. William another Son, and Richard another Son; Mary, eldest Daugh∣ter, married George Hocknell of Prenton in Wirrall Com. Cestr. 1668. Anne, second Daughter, and Elizabeth third Daughter, living 1672. and six Children more died in their Infancy, Richard, Anthony, Richard, Joan, Dorothy, and Joan.

This George was buried at Mobberley the 19. of June 1671. Dorothy survived, by whom came the Lands in Lincolnshire and Crooke.

XII Rafe Leycester of Toft Esq Son and Heir of George, married Eleanour, eldest Daughter of Sir Peter Leycester of Nether-Tabley Baronet, 29 Augusti, 1665. and hath Issue Eleanour, Elizabeth, Dorothy, Frances, and Anne born at Mobberly August 24. 1672. being Saturday.

Over-Walton.

* 50.11IT seems that Over-Walton was held immediately from the Lord of Daresbery: for Margeria Domina de Daresbery, Daughter and Heir of William Daresbery of Daresbery, and Widow of Henry le Norreys, gave to Alan le Norreys her Son and to Mabill his Wife, Daughter of Randle de Merton, the Manor of Daresbery, una cum Dominio Villae de Over-Walton, 7 Edw. 2. 1314. Lib. C. fol. 185. e. The Original in possession of Daniell of Daresbery, 1649.

Howbeit, originally it is held of the Baron of Halton: where in the Feodary there∣of under Edward the Second, it is said,—Alanus le Norreys tenet Villam de Daresbery, & Villam de Walton Superiori, pro medietate unius Feodi Militis.

And among the Evidences of Sir Peter Brooke of Mere, thus: Sciant omnes, Ego Alanus Dominus de Daresbery dedi Thomae filio meo totam terram, quam Adam de Stockton quondam tenuit de Willielmo de Walton in Walton: Item dictus Alanus obligavit se sub pena 20. marca∣rum Domino Comiti Lincolniae solvendarum, quod totam terram, quam habebit vel habere po∣terit in Villa de Walton superiore, dicto Thomae & haeredibus suis integre dimittet.—Et si con∣tingat quod Uxor Thomae, scilicet Helewisa, sine haerede de Corpore discedat—tunc mihi prae∣fato Alano integre remaneant. Reddendo unum Par albarum Cheirothecarum ad Festum Sancti Martini.—Testibus Ricardo de Aston, Ada de Hatton, &c. made about the very begin∣ning of Edward the Second. Lib. B. pag. 203. num. 3.

So that William de Walton, Son of Herbert de Walton, was before possessed of Over-Walton.

Afterwards I find Simon de Merbury, Son of Randle de Merbury, together with Idonea his Wife, passing away unto Hugh Standish and his Heirs, Medietatem totius Villae no∣strae de Over-Walton, excepto Capitali Messuagio & Piscaria nostra de Mersey: whereupon a Fine was Levied at Chester, 3 Edw. 2. Lib. B. pag. 203. num. 5.

This Idonea was Daughter and Heir of Thomas de Walton, Lib. C. fol. 215. e. by whom Simon had Issue Randle de Merbury Son and Heir; from whom the Merburies of Walton; also Thomas and John, both dead without Issue before 41 Edw. 3. Lib. B. pag. 205. num. 19. & pag. 206. num. 2.

Hugh Standish aforesaid, by Fine at Chester, 8 Edw. 2. had five Acres of Land, and half of the Manor of Over-Walton, cum pertinentiis, granted unto him by Henry Son of Richard de Walton, Lib. B. pag. 204. num. 7. whereby it may seem that Standish now had all Over-Walton, except the Capital Messuage and the Fishing in Mersey River.

But afterwards I find Isabel, Daughter of Thomas de Elton, making Richard Lestwich her Attorney, to take possession in her Name of the Manor of Over-Walton, and of certain Lands in Nether-Walton, together with the Reversion of the Lands of Idonea, Grandmother of Thomas Son of Randle Merbury, in Hatton. 34 Edw. 3. Lib. B. pag. 204. num. 13.

Not long after Merbury was possessed of Over-Walton: for William Danell of Dares∣bery (having the Wardship of the Heir) grants to Alice Widow of Randle Merbury, two parts of the Manor of Over-Walton, during the Minority of Hugh, Son of the said Randle Merbury now deceased, for the yearly Rent of 01l. 06s. 04d. Dated 3 Hen. 4. 1401. Lib. B. pag. 204. num. 14.

Since which time the Merburies of Walton enjoyed the same, until Sir Peter Brooke of Mere now living, 1666. lately bought the same from Thomas Merbury of Walton Gent. with all his whole Estate.

Charterers now in Over-Walton, 1666.

• 1. John Dunbabbin of Over-Walton.
• 2. Richard Rutter.
• 3. Richard Webster. These Lands formerly belonged to Sir Richard Brooke of Norton.
• 4. Thomas Warburton of Partington: lately bought from Thomas Merbury, late of Walton.

Nether-Walton.

THis Town, as well as the other Walton, seems to take their Name from the mul∣titude of the Springs therein: for the ancient Saxons called a springing Water, A Wawe; for which we now use the word Well.

Geffrey Dutton of Chedill, gave to Richard Son of Robert Massy of Sale, all his Lands in Nether-Walton, in exchange for his Mannor of Ashley, in the Reign of Edward the First. Lib. C. fol. 150. f.

Sir Hugh Dutton of Dutton, 22 Edw. 1. is found to hold half of Nether-Walton of the Baron of Halton. Lib. C. fol. 156.bb.

And in the Feodary of Halton sub Ed. 2.—Dominus Petrus de Warburton tenet medie∣tatem de Walton inferiore, pro decima parte unius Feodi Militis. And in the Offices of Massy de Sale, Massy is found to hold half of Nether-Walton of Warburton of Arley.

But Massy of Sale hath sold his Moiety of Nether-Walton, except one Cottage, as followeth, 1666.

• 1. Thomas Massy of Nether-Walton. This was bought from his Landlord Massy of Sale.
• 2. William Ford of Nether-Walton; bought from Massy of Sale.
• 3. John Hatton of Nether-Walton; bought from Massy of Sale.
• 4. Richard Massy of Sale Esquire, hath now one Cottage, in possession of William Wilson. 1666.
• 5. John Dumbill.
• 6. William Norman.

The other Moiety of Nether-Walton, which formerly belonged to Dutton of Dutton, is now belonging to Sir Peter Brooke of Mere; which he purchased lately from Merbury of Walton, as also all his Lands in Over-Walton, Appleton, Hull & Stockton.

The Mannor-House is situate in Over-Walton, but part of the Demain now thereun∣to belonging, lieth in Nether-Walton.

Warburton.

HEre is an ancient Free Chappel at Warburton, now usually taken for a Parish Church; whereof Warburton of Arley, Lord of the Town, is Patron. This Pa∣rish comprehendeth onely the Township of Warburton, which in our Mize-Book is Rated at 00l. 12s. 00d.

The words of the Institution and Induction of the present Parson are,—Ad liberam Capellam de Warburton, & medietatem Rectoriae Ecclesiae de Limme. So that Warburton hath the Gift of half of Limme, as well as of Warburton wholly: and he is Presented here to both, and ought to supply Warburton every Sunday, and Limme every other Sunday by course.

In the time of William the Conqueror, William Fitz-Nigell Baron of Halton, held one

Moiety of Warburton, which Ernui formerly held: And Osbern Son of Tezzon (surmi∣zed to be the Ancestor of the Boydells of Dodleston) held the other Moiety of Warbur∣ton, which Ravene formerly held.

Adam de Dutton, younger Son of Hugh Dutton of Dutton, became possessed of both these Moieties of Warburton, towards the Time of King Rtchard the First. One Moi∣ety he had by Agnes his Wife, Daughter and Heir of Robert Fitz-Alured; and I take it to be that Moiety held of Boydell: Which Adam, by the Consent of Agnes his Wife, gave to the Religious House of Canons, of the Order of Premonstrants, here at Warburton, about the Reign of King John, in these Words:—

—Ego Adam de Dutton assensu Agnetis Sponsae meae dedi Deo, & Sanctae Mariae, & Sanctae Werburgae de Werburton, & Canonicis Premonstratensis Ordinis ibidèm—medieta∣tem totius Villae de Werburton in liberam Eleomosynam, pro salute Animae Johannis Constabu∣larii & Antecessorum suorum; & pro salute Animae & Corporis Rogeri Constabularii, & Sponsae suae; & pro Animâ Patris mei & Matris meae; pro Animâ Rogeri Filii Aluredi de cujus Feodo haec est, & Antecessorum suorum; pro Animâ Johannis Filii mei, cujus Corpus ibì sepultum est; & pro salute Animae meae, & Sponsae meae, & omnium Antecessorum meo∣rum. Testibus Hugone de Dutton, & Galfrido Fratre suo,—&c.

Extracted by me from the Original, remaining among the Evidences at Dutton: Lib. C. fol. 136. b.

This Saint Werburge was the Daughter of Wolfere King of Mercia, a Holy Virgin, whose Feast is celebrated usually on the sixteenth day of June: Some Almanacks place it to the 21 of June.

And probably from the Church, or some Religious House founded here anciently unto the Honour of this Virgin, it had the Name of Warburton.

Certain it is, that it gave the occasion of the Sir-name of Warburton to the Lords and Owners thereof: For the Posterity of that Adam de Dutton coming to reside at Warburton under Edward the Second, Peter de Dutton was then stiled Peter de Warbur∣ton, from the Place of his Residence, as was the manner and custom of those Ages; which Sir-name of Warburton his Heirs have ever since wholly retained to this day. See more of this suprà, in Budworth.

But to return to the Moiety of Warburton of the Fee of Boydell, which was confirm∣ed to Adam de Dutton by Hugh Boydell, in the Reign of Richard the First, or thereabouts, in these Words:—

NOverint universi tàm praesentes quàm futuri, quòd ego Hugo de Boydele dedi, concessi, & hâc praesenti Chartâ mea confirmavi Adae de Dutton pro homagio & servitio suo, totam terram meam in Warburton, scilicet, totam dimidiam partem ejusdem villae, cùm omni∣bus pertinentiis, jure haereditario illi & haeredibus suis: Tenendum de me & haeredibus meis liberè—pro XII solidis annuatìm reddendis; scilicèt, sex solidis ad Festum Sancti Johan∣nis, & sex solidis ad Festum Sancti Martini; & unum hominem ad Castellum operantem ad suam expensam pèr octo tantùm dies annuatìm inveniendo, pro omni servitio.—Hiis Testi∣bus, Rogero Constabulario Cestriae, Willielmo de Boydell, Ricardo & Alano de Boydele, Jo∣hanne de Boidele, Willielmo de Radeclyve, Hugone de Dutton, Galfrido de Dutton, Hugone Dispensario, Hereberto de Waleton, Rogero Venables, Ricardo Starky, Alano de Daresbery, & aliis.

One of these Witnesses, Roger Constable of Cheshire, died 1211. the thir∣teenth of King John, saith Matthew Paris: Wherefore this Deed must be made before that Year.

Now this Deed was produced in pleno Comitatu Cestriae, 1233. before Sir Richard Fit∣ton then Judge of Chester, Walter Abbot of Chester, William de Venables, Hamon de Massy, Richard de Wibbenbury then Sheriff of Cheshire, and others, upon a Writ of Warranty brought against Sir William Boydell by Sir Geffrey Dutton Son of Adam Dutton aforesaid: Lib. C. fol. 136.a.

Et de Anno 23 Edw. 3. inter Feoda Willielmi Boydell—Sir Geffrey Warburton held the Manor of Hull & Appleton, and half of Warburton, of the said William Boydell, by the Service of one Knight's Fee, and twelve Shillings yearly Rent, and two Shillings every third year.

These Notes I received from the Collections of Will. Vernon late of Houlme in Cheshire.

Anno 5 Hen. 5. Division was made of the Inheritance of Boydell; and six Shillings of the Rent issuing out of Warburton, which Sir Geffrey de Warburton's Heirs ought to pay, was allotted to Reddish, which came after to Merbury of Merbury juxtà Comber∣bach: Lib. C. fol. 282. I, So that the Rent of Warburton was divided.

The other Moiety of Warburton, being of the Fee of Halton, John Constable of Cheshire gave to Adam Dutton, in these Words:—

JOhannes Constabularius Cestriae, Omnibus Sanctae Matris Ecclesiae Filiis salutem. Sciatis me dedisse & concessisse Adae de Dutton, dare Deo, & Sancto Johanni Baptistae, & beatis Pauperibus Sanctae Domus Hospitalis Hierosolymitanae & Fratribus in eâdem Domo Deo ser∣vientibus, pro salute meâ & Dominae Aeliz Uxoris meae, & Infantium nostrorum, & omnium Parentum & Amicorum & Antecessorum nostrorum, totam partem meam villae de Werbur∣tonâ; videlicèt, plenariè & integrè totam medietatem villae cùm omnibus pertinentiis— in puram & perpetuam Elemosynam, liberam, solutam, & quietam ab omni Seculari servi∣tio—Hiis Testibus, Henrico Priore de Nortonâ, Anselmo Capellano, Ricardo Capellano, Fratre Roberto Filio Ricardi, Hugone de Dutton, Gilberto Filio Rondulphi, Hamone de Ber∣thinton, Willielmo de Camull, Mattheo Tuschet, Stephano da Muschamp, Willielmo Filio Ro∣geri, Johanne Burdon, Galfrido de Stretlèe, Aytropio, Ricardo Filio Rogeri, Simone Cusin, Willielmo de Baale, Henrico Camerario, Willielmo de Comberbache, & multis aliis.

Sealed with a large Seal, the fore-part whereof is broken and cloven off; on the back-part, A Lion Rampant; written about thus,—

SIGILLUM JOHANNIS CONSTABULARII CESTRIAE.

The Original among the Evidences at Dutton, 1649.

And this Moiety he held from the Priory of St. John of Hierusalem in England ever since.

It seems to me, that this Adam de Dutton had by Agnes his Wife, the Daughter and Heir (or Co-heir at least) of Roger Fitz-Alfred, half of Warburton, half of Limme, the Towns of Newton juxtà Daresbery, Hatton, Appilton, and the Royalty of Stretton.

Sure I am, the said Adam Dutton, and Geffrey his Son, about the Reign of King John, were possessed of the Towns of Great-Budworth, Aston juxta Budworth, Nether-Tabley, Sutton juxta Frodshum, Appilton & Hull, Newton juxtà Daresberie, Hatton, Stret∣ton, Warburton, half of Limme, half of Sale, half of Nether-Walton: But many of these were long time ago given away by Geffrey Son of Adam Dutton, and Geffrey Son of that Geffrey.

Warford.

WArford in the Conqueror's Time was then held by one Ranulphus, or Randle, supposed to be the Ancestor of the Manwarings. Idem Ranulfus tenet Warford, & Godid de eo: ipsa tenuit, & libera fuit: So are the Words of Doomsday-book.

This Town is since divided into two Towns, Great-Warford and Little-Warford: Both of them were within the old Bucklow Hundred; but upon the new Division of the Hundreds (which I conjecture exceeds not the Reign of Edward the Third) Great-Warford was allotted to Maxfield Hundred.

But Little-Warford continued to Bucklow Hundred, and is joyned now with Mart∣hall in one Constableship.

This small Hamlet of Little-Warford, now in Bucklow Hundred, was given by Roger Manwaring of Warmincham in Cheshire, to Robert de Vernon Militi suo, Filio Ricardi de Vernon, in the beginning of the Reign of Henry the Third.

* 51.1Gilbert Lee of Middleton in Yorkshire Esquire, sells Little-Warford to John Milling∣ton, and Henry Hough, and their Heirs, 22 die Maii, 4 Eliz. 1562.

Henry Hough of Knotsford Mercer, settles his Lands in Little-Warford to his own use for his Life, and after to the use of his Nephew Thomas Antrobus of Lincolns-Inn, and his Heirs, 28 Julii, 15 Eliz. 1573.

Division is made of the Lands in Little-Warford, between John Millington and Tho∣mas Antrobus, 27 Julii, 18 Eliz. 1576.

Thomas Antrobus and Elizabeth his Wife pass all their Land in Little-Warford unto Thomas Colthurst and his Heirs, 17 Aprilis, 13 Jacobi, 1615.

Thomas Colthurst, by Deed enrolled, sells all his Lands in Little-Warford to Stephen Smith and his Heirs, 30 Octobris, 16 Jac. 1618.

Stephen Smith sells all his Lands in Little-Warford to Sir Randle Manwaring of Over-Pever, and his Heirs, 20 Martii, 17 Jacobi, 1619. whose Heirs are now possessed of this Moiety of Little-Warford, 1666.

The other Moiety, which belonged to John Millington aforesaid, is now in posses∣sion of Millington Colthurst of Little-Warford, 1666.

Charterers in Little-Warford, 1666.

• William Bayly. This Freehold-Land of Inheritance in Little-Warford was Purcha∣sed from Sir Randle Manwaring of Over-Pever, the sixteenth of April, 1620. and belonged to his Moiety.

Great-Warford Roger Manwaring sold to Richard Putra, regnante Henrico Tertio; and Putra sold it to Randle Manwaring, younger Brother to the said Roger; and Randle Earl of Chester confirmed it to Randle Manwaring, in the beginning of the Reign of Henry the Third; Lib. B. pag. 1.z. from whom the Manwarings of Warford-Magna: But this Family was long since extinct.

Weston.

WIlliam Fitz-Nigell, Baron of Halton, held Weston of Hugh Lupus Earl of Che∣ster, in the Reign of William the Conqueror; and Odard and Brictric held it of William Fitz-Nigell.

In Monasticon, Vol. 2. pag. 187. we read, That Nigell gave to Odard, Weston and Great-Aston: And from this Odard came all the Duttons: And that Nigell gave to Edward Brother of Odard two Ox-gangs of Land, quas Haeredes Willielmi Filii Ranul∣phi modò tenent.

Guarinus de Vernon released to Sir Hugh Dutton of Dutton, and his Heirs, in pleno Co∣mitatu Cestriae, Gilbertum de Weston & Rogerum Filium suum (quondàm homines Guarini) cùm Catallis suis,—&c. Pro hâc Concessione dedit Hugo quatuor Marcas Argenti:— tempore Philippi Orreby Justiciarii Cestriae: Lib. C. fol. 153.c. about the end of King John's Reign.

So that the Duttons of Dutton were possessed of Weston since the Conqueror's time, to this present, 1666. Onely some small Parcel thereof Hugh Dutton Purchased out in the Reign of King John, or thereabouts.

Charterers in Weston, 1666. onely one.

• Richard Heath of Weston.

Nether-Whitley.

THis Town of Nether-Whitley is originally of the Fee of Halton since the Norman Conquest.

Randle Earl of Chester, sirnamed Blundevill, gave it to Alfred de Combre about the Reign of Richard the First, Scilicet Witeleiam cum omnibus Pertinentiis suis in Halton∣shire; & eam illi admensuravi ad Servitium dimidii Militis, donec viderim aut Audierim quod possit pati. Ea propter volo & firmiter praecipio, quod ipse Alvredus, & haeredes sui, prae∣dictam terram teneant de me & haeredibus meis, bene & honorifice per admensuratum Serviti∣um, in Villa & extra, in foro & Mercato, in bosco & plano,—in Sok & Sak, & Toll, & Teme, & Infangtheife, & cum omnibus aliis Consuetudinibus, & libertatibus.—Testibus Radulfo Abbate Cestriae, Warino de Vernon, & Ricardo Pincerna, & Thurstano Bannaster, & Willielmo Bar, & Willielmo Capellano. Apud Braham.

The Copy of this Deed I had from Will. Vernon.

I find in the Pedegree of Touchet, in the Book of Pedegrees by John Booth late of Twamlowe, that this Alvred was Son of Reginald de Cumbrey, Lord of Leigh-Cumber in Shropshire; and that Roger, Son of Alfred, had two Daughters and Heirs; Alice, mar∣ried to Sir Robert Touchet, Lord of Buglawton and Tattenhale; and Agnes, married to Adam de Dutton, younger Son of Hugh Dutton of Dutton, and Ancestor to the Warbur∣tons of Arley. Sed quaere concerning Alice.

Sure I am, that Thomas Tuschet was Lord of Nether-Whitley in the Reign of Henry the Third, as appears by the original Deed of Grimsdich in Nether-Whitley, now in possession of Grimsdich of Grimsdich, 1666. Lib. C. fol. 189.f. in these words:—

SCiant omnes praesentes & futuri, quod ego Thomas Tuschet dedi—Adae Filio Hugonis de Grimsdich pro Homagio & Servitio suo totam Terram de Grimsdich pertinentem ad Vil∣lam de Witelegh, cum metis & divisionibus suis. Tenendum illi & haeredibus suis—cum Communia & Pastura, & in omnibus locis & Aysiamentis praedictae terrae pertinentibus: Et cum libertate Cariagii, scilicet dé mortuo bosco, in nemore de Witelegh cum una Quadriga, vel cum uno Plaustro: Et cum acquietantia Pasnagii in praedicto loco de Nether-Witelegh, Scilicet ad Porcos suos in praedicta Villa nutritos—Reddendo annuatim de praedicta terra mihi & haeredibus meis,—tres solidos Argenti: Scilicet octodecem denarios in Nativitate Sancti Johannis Baptistae, & octodecem denarios in Festo Sancti Martini, pro omnibus Servitiis— Testibus Galfrido de Dutton, Hugone de Dutton, Thoma de Orreby, Gralam de Lostock, &c.

And in the Feodary of Halton under Edward the Second—Dominus Robertus Touchet tenet Villam de Whitley inferiore pro tertia parte unius Feodi Militis [alii legunt pro medietate unius Feodi Militis.]

Here have the Touchets of Nether-Whitley continued their Seat since King John's time to this day, 1666.

Out of this Family branched out the Touchets, Barons de Audley; saith Cambden.

Charterers in Nether-Whitley, 1666.

• 1. Grimsdich of Grimsdich, an ancient Family of Gentlemen, seated here at Grims∣dich in Nether-Whitley in the Reign of Henry the Third, and continuing at this day, 1666.
• 2. Allen of Green-Hill in Nether-Whitley.
• 3. Henry Manwaring of Carincham Esquire, a Tenement in possession of one Whita∣kers.
• 4. Mr. Bressy of Buckley hath one Tenement in Nether-Whitley, now in possession of Hugh Gandy, 1666.
• ...

• 5. Mr. Eaton of Ireland hath another Tenement in possession of Thomas Deusbery.
• 6. Doctor Bentley of Northwich hath about three or four Acres in Nether-Whitley.

In this Township is a Chappel of Ease, called Whitley-Chappel, within the Parish of Great-Budworth. This Chappel was built anew, but upon an old Foundation, by Tho∣mas Tuschet late of Nether-Whitley Esq about sixty years ago, at his own Cost: where∣unto one Thomas Pierson Minister of Brampton in Herefordshire, born at Weverham in Cheshire, and brought up at Mr. Touchet's of Nether-Whitley, did by Will dated the 15. of October 1633. give two hundred and fifty Pounds toward the maintaining of a Minister at this Chappel, and fifty Pounds more to the maintaining of a Minister at Witton Chappel.

There belongeth also to Whitley Chappel, Land lying in Anterbus in Over-Whitley, of the yearly value of 03l. 10s. 00d. purchased about the year 1631. with Mo∣neys given by Thomas Legh, Richard Kelsall of Dutton, and Tho. Saunders of Clatterwigge.

Over-Whitley.

OVer-Whitley is a great Township, comprehending the Hamlets of Norcot, Anter∣bus, Middle-Walke, Seaven-Oakes, and Crowley, within the same: It is com∣monly called by the Neighborhood, The Lordship, and is of the Fee of Halton-Castle from the time of the Conqueror.

Formerly this Town was Copy-hold Land to the Baron of Halton, until the same was bought out into Fee-Farm by Fealty and Suit of Court to Halton, and not to be held in Capite nor Knight-Service. The King's Charter is dated the 17. day of Decem∣ber 1612. 10 Jacobi, remaining now in the custody of Richard Peacock of Over-Whitley, Anno Christi 1666. Lib. C. fol. 277, 278. The Purchasers from the King were Tho∣mas Merbury of Merbury Esq John Grimsdich of Grimsdich Gent. Thomas Gregge of Brad∣ley in Appleton Gent. and Hugh Crosby of Over-Whitley Gent. who sold to every man his own Land.

So now they be all Fee-Farmers in Over-Whitley, the Town being scattered into sundry parcels of Free-holds of Inheritance in Fee-Farm, save onely these following, who are ancient Free-holders, and not Fee-Farmers, for some Parcels.

• 1. Robert Venables of Anterbus Esquire.
• 2. Sir George Warburton of Arley Baronet.
• 3. Thomas Merbury of Merbury nigh Comberbach Esquire.
• 4. Grimsdich of Grimsdich in Nether-Whitley hath some ancient Free-hold Land in Over-Whitley.

Winsham.

THis Township in Dooms-day Book is written Wimundesham, and was held by Gil∣bert Venables, Baron of Kinderton, under Hugh Earl of Chester, sirnamed Lupus, in the Reign of William the Conqueror, which formerly was held by one Dott; & liber homo fuit.

In old Deeds it is written Wimingham, but now usually called and written Wincham, or Winsham.

* 51.2William Venables of Kinderton gave unto Maude his Sister in Marriage, about the Reign of Richard the First, Winsham, and half of Pickmere; Faciendo Servitium dimidii militis de forinseco Servitio. Lib. B. pag. 50.a.

This Maude de Venables gave the Manor of Winsham, infra villam & extra, & unam Ca∣rucatam terrae cum pertinentiis in Twambroke, cum medietate bosci de Alreschagh, & Communa Pasturae in Linwood, unto Nicholas de Elets, for the Service of half a Knights-Fee. Lib. B.

pag. 50.b. which Grant was confirmed by Randle Earl of Chester and Lincoln, sirnamed Blundevill, about 1230. Lib. B. pag. 29.a. This Nicolas had married Maude her elder Daughter.

This Nicholas de Elets gives the Mannor of Winsham to Henry de Elets. Lib. B. pag. 50.c.

And Maude de Venables confirmed the Grant to Henry de Elets: for which Confir∣mation he gave to her and her Heirs, scilicet, to Maude de Shirburne, sometime Wife of Nicolas de Elets, and to Robert Brant and Emme his Wife, twenty Marks of Ster∣ling Money. Lib. B. pag. 29. d. which Daughters she had by her first Husband Raufe Son of Roger; and after she married Hugh de Bixis or Brixis.

Henry de Elets sells the whole Manor of Winsham, with its Apurtenances, to William Venables the younger, about 1233. 18 Hen. 3. Lib. B. pag. 29.c. & pag. 50 d. which Grant was confirmed by John the Scot, Earl of Chester and Huntingdon. Lib. B. pag. 29. b.

This William de Venables the younger thus possessed of the Manor of Winsham, bought out certain Lands in Winsham, which William Son of Guy of Winsham then stood possessed of: but these Lands of William Venables the younger, descended to his two Daughters and Heirs, by Partition made about 1273.

Lettice the elder Daughter married Philip de Baumvile, she had all the Outlands, to wit, Radnour, Hulme, Castle of North-wich, Hulcroft, and two Ox-gangs of Land in Congleton, and two Wich-houses in Middle-wich.

Beatrix the younger Daughter married Raufe de Wasteneys: she had all the Manor of Winsham, except Twambrookes, and the Mill of Winsham. Lib. B. pag. 31. m.

Raufe Wasteneys de Tyxale and Beatrix his Wife, gave to Pagan their Son and Marga∣ret his Wife, Daughter of Alexander de Baumvyle, and to their Heirs, all the Manor of Winsham, with Wardships, Reliefs, Escheats, &c. 21 Edw. 1. 1293. Lib. B. pag. 32.o. rendring six Marks yearly during the Lives of Raufe and Beatrix.

Margaret, after the death of Pagan Wasteneys, married Hugh Son of Henry de Pick∣mere, living 14 Edw. 2. Lib. C. fol. 229.o.

Placita apud Cestriam, 46 Edw. 3. in Crastino Sancti Botulphi.

RObertus de Cholmondeley & Alicia Uxor ejus, & Johannes Filius Willielmi de Legh, & Margareta Uxor ejus, petunt versus Hugonem Filium Alexandri de Wasteneys, unum Messuagium, & 30 Acras Terrae, & 6 Acras Prati cum pertinentiis in Winsham, quae Radul∣fus de Wasteneys & Beatricia Uxor ejus dederunt Pagano Filio suo & Haeredibus de Cor∣pore,—&c. Et quae post mortem Johannis, Filii praedicti Pagani & Margaretae Uxoris suae, Praefatis Aliciae, & Margaretae Uxori praedicti Johannis Filii Willielmi de Legh, ut Filiabus & Haeredibus praedicti Johannis Filii praedictorum Pagani & Margaretae, descendere de∣bent,—&c.

This John Legh of High-Legh de East-Hall, married Margaret Wasteneys, 1365. 40 Edw. 3. Lib. C. fol. 268. num. 39. and had a Daughter and Heir married to John Massy of Winsham. Lib. B. pag. 33. x.

This John Massy of Winsham, by his Coat of Arms wherewith he Sealed,* 52.1 seems to be descended from Massy de Sale originally, and had Issue Geffrey Massy of Winsham, li∣ving 21 Rich. 2. & 7 Hen. 4. which Geffrey had Issue William Massy, who died without Issue; and Maude married to Richard Legh of High-Legh of the West-Hall, 1375. and af∣terwards became Heir to her Father's Lands. Lib. B. pag. 35. g. h. Lib. C. fol. 266. num. 4, 5.

So that from about 10 Hen. 6. the Leghs of High-Legh de West-Hall were possessed of the Moiety of Winsham, until Richard Legh and Clemence his Wife, sold unto Anthony Grosvenour of Ridley in Cheshire Esquire, all his Lands in Winsham for two hundred and twenty Pounds: Dated the 14. of June, 7 Eliz. 1566. Lib. B. pag. 56.b. and Grosve∣nour sold them to Roger Pilston of the Temple at London, and to John Grosvenour of

Tussingham, Anno 8 Elizabethae. And soon after these Lands were bought by Sir Ri∣chard Egerton of Ridley in Cheshire.

Raufe Egerton of Ridley Esq and Sir Richard Egerton his Son and Heir, do sell unto Richard Harecourt of Winsham Gent, all the their Moiety of the Manor of Winsham, with certain Inclosures taken out of the Commons of Winsham by Sir Thomas Venables of Kinderton late deceased, and particularly named in the Deed bearing Date the 16. of April, 4 Jacobi 1606. excepted out of this Grant, all those Lands in Winsham for∣merly sold by them to Edmund Moldesworth of Winsham, Roger Wood, and Thomas Nor∣cot: but Richard Harcourt after purchased Norcot's Messuage

Concerning the Inclosures aforesaid, there was formerly some difference between Sir Rich. Egerton of Ridley, and Sir Tho. Venables aforesaid; but upon an Award made between them, Sir Thomas Venables released unto Raufe Egerton of Ridley Esq Son and Heir of Sir Richard, and to others, all the said Inclosures, to revert to the Heirs of the said Raufe Egerton, after the Death of Sir Thomas Venables aforesaid, and Thomas Vena∣bles his Son: Dated the 8. of June, 16 Eliz. 1574. The Originals of these Penes Harcourt of Winsham, 1666.

For in truth, though the Baron of Kinderton be Lord Paramount, yet had he then nothing to do with any part of the Manor of Winsham, or Wastes thereto belonging, that being given away by his Ancestour long time ago; onely the Service reserved in the original Deed was due to him, but no part of the Land or Soil, as is clear by the Deeds before-mentioned.

The other Moiety of Winsham (which was invested in Robert Cholmondeley's Heirs in Right of Alice his Wife, Daughter and Coheir of John Wasteneys) came afterwards to Buckley of Eyton nigh Davenham; and from that Family this Moiety at last descended to Richard Leftwich of Leftwich Esq in Right of Margaret his Wife, Daughter and Coheir of Robert Buckley of Eyton, whom he married 13 Hen. 8. 1521. and had Issue by her a Daughter and Heir, called Margaret Leftwich, who carrid away all her Mo∣thers Lands; but her Father's Lands were Entailed on the Heirs Males of the Left∣wiches: And she had two Husbands; the first was Thomas Woodrofe, by whom she had Issue Thomas, who died without Issue; and two Daughters, Elizabeth married Ro∣bert Edowe and Brigit.

After the Death of her first Husband, who died about 1 Eliz. 1559. the said Mar∣garet Leftwich married William Harcourt Gent. third Son of John Harcourt of Ranton in Staffordshire Esq unto the Issue of which William Harcourt by Margaret, this other Moie∣ty of Winsham descended, and hath continued unto his Heirs to this present, 1666.

So that William Harcourt of Winsham now living, 1666. having lately purchased Woods Tenement in Winsham, and two Water-Corn-Mills in Twambrooke, is now possessed of the Manor and whole Township of Winsham, excepting these Charterers following:

• 1. Moldesworth of Winsham: These Lands were purchased by Edmund Moldesworth of Winsham Gent. from Raufe Egerton of Ridley in Cheshire Esq 3 Jac. 1605. Lib, B. pag. 56.a.
• 2. Robert Venables of Anterbus in Over-Whitley hath two Messuages in Winsham; one now in possession of Raufe Pownall, the other of Richard Eyton.
• 3. Thomas Marbury of Marbury Esq hath one Messuage in Winsham, the greatest part whereof he hath now laid to his Demain of Merbury: the other part, and the House is now in possession of Widow Maddock, 1666.
• 4. John Swinton of Nether-Knotsford hath a parcel of Land in Winsham, adjoyning to his Land in Picmere: This was purchased from Mr. William Merbury, elder Brother of the said Thomas.
• 5. William Peacock of Winsham: This Messuage was sold by Mr. William Merbury aforesaid, unto Raufe Billinge; and Raufe Billinge sold it to William Peacock, Fa∣ther of the said William.
• 6. Hugh Lowton of Winsham: This Cottage he purchased from Mr. William Mer∣bury aforesaid, the 13. of April, 14 Car. 1. 1638.

• Richard Leftwich of Leftwich Esquire, Obiit 2 Hen. 8. — Margery Daughter of Laurence Marbury of Marbury Esquire.
  • Richard Leftwich of Leftwich se∣nior, died 30 Hen. 8. — Katharine Daughter of Henry Man∣waring of Carincham Esquire.
    • 1. Richard Left∣wich junior, Son & Heir, died without Issue-male, 34 Hen. 8. — Margaret, Daughter and Heir of Robert Buckley of Eyton nigh Da∣venham, Lord of the Moiety of Winsham.
      • Margaret, Daughter and Heir of Richard Leftwich: She died 1588. 30 Eliz. — Thomas Woodrofe, first Husband: He died 1 Eliz. * 52.2
        • ...Thomas sine prole.
        • Elizabeth Wife of Robert Edowe.
        • ...Brigit.
    • 2. Raufe, Heir-male to his Brother Ri∣chard. Ob. 37. H. 8. — Elizabeth daughter of Foulk Dutton of Chester. John Legh del Ridge, second Husband.
      • Raufe, a Child, died 6 Edw. 6.
    • 3. George Leftwich third Son, of whom the Left∣wiches of Left∣wich.

{fleur-de-lys} Thomas Buckley of Eyton died 6 Hen. 7. and had Issue Thomas Buckley of Eyton, living 15 Hen. 8. who died without Issue; and Robert Buckley of Eyton, Brother and Heir to Thomas.

This Robert Buckley had Issue Margaret Wife of Richard Leftwich, and Anne Wife of John Brereton, 7 Hen. 8. younger Son of Sir William Brereton; and Ka∣tharine, third Daughter: But Anne and Katharine had no Issue.

The Family of the Harcourts of Ranton in Staffordshire are a Noble and Ancient Fa∣mily; whose Ancestor Richard Harcourt, Son of William Harcourt of Stanton-Harcourt in Oxfordshire, married Orabella Daughter of Saher de Quency Earl of Winchester, and of Margaret his Wife, Sister and Co-heir to Robert Fitz-Parnell Earl of Leycester, unto whom her Father Saher gave Bosworth in Leycestershire in Marriage, to wit, Market-Bosworth, about the end of King John's Reign, to be held by the Service of a whole Knights Fee: So saith Burton in his Description of Leycestershire, p. 47. where he addeth, That this Family came originally out of France; and that Jean le Feron a Frenchman (who wrote under our Edward the Sixth) blazeth the Coat-Armor of John de Har∣court, Marshal of France under Philip le Beau, 1286. thus:—Gules, two Fesses Or; which is the same Coat born by the Harcourts in England: And further saith, That the Family of Harcourt had continued more than 800 Years, to his time. But of this enough.

I. William Harcourt of Winsham Gentleman, third

[illustration] blazon or coat of arms

Son of John Harcourt of Ranton in Staffordshire Esq married Margaret Daughter and Heir of Richard Left∣wich of Leftwich in Davenham-Parish Esquire, and Widow to Thomas Woadrofe, about 6 Eliz. 1563. and had Issue Richard Harcourt, eldest Son; Thomas Har∣court, second Son, who died without Issue 1640. Si∣mon, third Son, died without Issue; and Margaret, married to John Grimsdich (then of Hallum, by vertue of a Lease).

And by Parnell, a second Wife, William Harcourt had Issue Mary Wife of Robert Pownall of Witton; she was born 1599. And Jane married Richard Broom of Lostock-Gralam.

Margaret, the first Wife of William, who had her Mothers Lands, to wit, the Moie∣ty of Winsham, died 30 Eliz. 1588. William Harcourt her Husband died 43 Eliz. 1600.

II. Richard Harcourt of Winsham Gentleman, Son and Heir of William, was Lord of the one Moiety of Winsham, by Descent, in Right of his Mother: The other Moi∣ety he Purchased 1606.

He married one Elizabeth Widnester of London, and had Issue William Harcourt, el∣dest Son, born 1605. Raufe, born 1614. he died without Issue 1647. Thomas, ano∣ther Son, died without Issue: Elizabeth married Randle Birchenhead of Northwich, whose Father was Usher of the Free-School of Northwich; Mary married John Capper of Brindley; she was born 1619. Margaret, and Jane, both died Infants.

This Richard Harcourt died 1628.

III. William Harcourt of Winsham Gentleman, Son and Heir of Richard, married Ma∣ry Daughter of George Holford of Newborough in Dutton, Gentleman, Anno Domini 1629. This George Holford was younger Son of Thomas Holford of Holford nigh Nether-Tabley, Esquire.

This William Harcourt and Mary are both yet living, 1669. and had Issue Frances, a Daughter, who died young, 1651. and George Harcourt, a Son, born 1632. yet living 1669. who hath sold the Reversion of all Winsham-Lands (after the death of his Fa∣ther and Mother), and also what he had in possession, unto Robert Venables of Anterbus in Over-Whitley, Gentleman, Anno Domini 1668. to whom he had Mortgaged the same before.

THus have I, by God's Assistance, run through BUCKLOW-HUNDRED, according to such Evidences and Records as I had carefully collected concern∣ing the same. If I had not met with some Obstructions by some Gentlemen, who, either out of Waywardness, or Jealousie, did refuse to let me have the Perusal of their Evidences, some things might possibly have been further discovered and illu∣strated. In the mean time, I wish this may incite some more able Hand to undertake the like for the reviving of those decayed Monuments of Antiquity in the other Hun∣dreds of this our County, which yet lie buried and covered in the Rubbish of Devour∣ing Time.

FINIS. 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Also Matth. Paris de H. 2. and Asser Me¦nevensis de Alfredo pa. 1.
• * 1.2

  Bede de Hist. Angl. lib. 3. cap. 9.
• * 1.3

  Tr••visa, the Translator of Polychronicon, calls them Dukes, fol. 275.
• * 1.4

  Anno Chr. 908.
• * 1.5

  Ann. Chr. 910.
• * 1.6

  Ann. Dom. 983.
• * 1.7

  Florentius, pag. 373.
• * 1.8

  See Hoveden, pag. 450.
• * 1.9

  Stow calls her Edina, pag. 90. b.
• * 1.10

  Vide Ingul∣phum, p. 857.
• * 1.11

  Damnonia, id est, Cornwal and Devon∣shire. Alfegus was Earl of Devonshire & Cornwal.
• * 1.12

  Gherbod, first Earl of Che∣ster after the Norman Conquest.
• * 3.1

  Alii Bigot de Loges hic le∣gunt: Vide Monasticon, pars 1. pag. 200, & 202.
• * 3.2

  For that such were educated with legiti∣mate Chil∣dren usually in those Ages.
• * 3.3

  1101. 1 Hen. 1.
• * 3.4

  6 Hen. 1. 1106.
• * 4.1

  1120. 20 Hen. 1.
• * 4.2

  Geffrey, a third Son, to whom his brother Ran∣dle gave Gil∣lesland in Cumberland; and to Willi∣am, Coupland in Cumberland. An old Parchment Roll, in Custody of Henry Ferrars of Badsley in Warwick-shire. See also Monasti∣con, Vol. 1. pag. 400.
• * 5.1

  Matt. Westm. sub Anno 1073. calls him Comes Ranulfus de Micenis.
• * 5.2

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 5.3

  Pipe-Roll. 5 Stephani. Lincolnshire.
• * 5.4

  1128. 29 H. 1.
• * 5.5

  Powel's Notes on the Welsh Hist. pa. 295 Vernon-Castle; the Letters of G and V in the beginning of words being promiscuous∣ly used.
• * 5.6

  This Speech is not in Orde∣ricus; but is taken out of Huntington, pag. 390. It is also in Hoveden and others.
• * 5.7

  Henry Hun∣tington, li. 8.
• * 5.8

  Huntington and Hoveden say they beat the Welsh, but the Earl of Chester co∣ming up with his Forces, quite routed them.
• * 5.9

  Gesta Steph. pag. 953.
• * 5.10

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 7.1

  King Stephen gave to Randle Gernouns the Castle and City of Lincoln, till he should be restored to all his Lands in Nomandy and his Castles there, and thereupon gave him liberty to fortifie one of the Towers of Lincoln Castle, to have Command thereof till the King should deliver the Castle of Tickill, and then to deliver up Lin∣coln Castle, excepting the Earls own Tower, which his Mother had fortified, and the Constableship of that Castle, and the whole Coun∣ty, which was his ancient Inheritance; and also the Castle of Bel∣voir, with all the Barony, and all the Land of William de Albiney, then Lord of Belvoir; and Graham (vulgo Grantham) with Sok: And if the Heirs of Graham should Compound with the King, yet the Barony to remain till the King gave other Lands for it. By the same Charter the King gave him New-Castle in Staffordshire, & Socam de Roeley, Torksey, Derby, Mansfield, Stoneley, the Wapentack of Orwardebek, and all the Lands of Roger de Busley, with all the Ho∣nour of Blithe nigh Tickhill, and all the Lands of Roger de Poictu from Northampton to Scotland, except what belongs to Roger de Montbegon in Lincolnshire; also all the Lands between Ribbell and Mersey; and the Land which the King had in Demaine in Grimsby in Lincolnshire, and all the Land which the Earl of Glocester had in Demaine in that Mannor of Grimsby. And also he restored, for Randle's sake, unto Adelize de Condy, all her Lands, viz. Horncastle in Lincolnshire, when the Castle was demolished. And all his own other Lands the King restored unto him. Ex Charta Originali nu∣per in Castro de Pomfret. Which Note I had from Mr. Dugdale.
• * 10.1

  The 16 day of December. Monasticon, Vol. 2. pa. 280.
• * 10.2

  Oblit 1153. 18 Stephani Regis.
• * 12.1

  The Origi∣nal of this was in posses∣sion of Mr. Townsley of Carre in Lan∣cashire, 1657.
• * 13.1

  Ex Libro sig∣nato (L) Pe∣nes Rogerum Dodsworth, Ehoracensem, fol. 24.
• * 13.2

  The Original of this remai∣ned in posses∣sion of Sir Simon Dewes Baronet, 1649. noted. EE. num. 6.
• * 13.3

  Ibidem, EE. num. 4.
• * 13.4

  Halton in Lincolnshire.
• * 13.5

  The Legiti∣mate Chil∣dren of Hugh.
• * 13.6

  Chartley in Staffordshire, with the Ca∣stle and Ma∣nor of West-Derby, and all Earl Randle's Lands between the Rivers of Ribbel and Mersey in Lancashire, Buckbroc in Northamptonshire, and Navenby in Lincoln∣shire, Claus 17 Hen. 3. Memb. 1.
• * 13.7

  Claus. 17 He••. 3. memb. 17. Pipe-Rolls, 17 Hen. 3. Lincolnshire.
• * 14.1

  To wit, all the Lands of Earl Randle in Lincoln∣shire.
• * 16.1

  De ordine Cisterciensi. To which Abbey he gave Leeke and Rudeyard in Staffordshire. Monasticon, Vol. 1. pag. 891, 892. Bivelegh, vulgo Byley, near to Middlewich in Cheshire, was a Grange belonging to the Monks of Delacresse. Monasticon, Vol. 2. pag. 919.
• * 16.2

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 16.3

  Lib. C. Fol. 85. b.
• * 16.4

  Lib. C. fol 139.
• * 16.5

  It is either thus, as I have put it; or, Galfrido & Roberto Filiis meis, Blethero Herberd de Waleton, &c. I leave it to the Reader to judge.
• * 18.1

  13. Hen. 3. the King granted a Confirmation to Randle Earl of Chester, of all his Lands between the Rivers of Ribbell and Mer∣sey in Lancashire; to wit, the Town and Wapentake of West-Derby, the Burrough of Lever-pool, the Town and Wapentake of Salford, and also the Wapen∣take of Leland, with all Forests and Appurtenances. Claus. 13 Hen. 3. memb. 2.
• * 23.1

  Claus. 2 Hen. 3. memb. 9.
• * 27.1

  This Deed bears Date Anno 1200.
• * 27.2

  The Deed is torn out in these places.
• * 27.3

  16 Hen. 3.
• * 29.1

  This Earl of Perch was slain at the Battel of Lin∣coln, 1217. Mat. Paris, pag. 296. of the Edition put out by Wats, A. Dom. 1640.
• * 29.2

  Pat. 1 Hen. 3. mem. 4 & mem. 7. Pat. 2 Hen. 3. mem 10.
• * 29.3

  Pat. 11. H. 3. mem. 6.
• * 33.1

  Oswaldesbeck in Notting∣hamshire. See Stat. 32 H 8. cap. 29.
• * 33.2

  Disart Ca∣stle is in Den∣highshire.
• * 33.3

  Stowe saith Griffith was a Bastard Son of Lhewellin, pag. 185.
• * 34.1

  Robert de Monte alto was not Baron till the end of Hen. 1. or beginning of King Stephen; but the rest, except Stockport, were Barons in the Conqueror's time, and so was the Ancestor of this Robert.
• * 36.1

  Those were said to be Signed with the Cross in these Ages, who had undertaken a Voyage to Jerusalem in defence of the Holy Land; and as a Badge of their Warfare they wore a Cross on their right Shoulder. So Spelman.
• † 36.2

  The Pleas of the Sword were the Pleas of the Dignity of the Earl of Chester, who held that Earldom as freely to the Sword, as the King held England to the Crown.
• * 36.3

  Sakerboth, Sakber, and Sacraber, is as much as a Pledge to Sue: one that puts in Surety to Prosecute another. Spelman.
• * 36.4

  Thiertnic, or Thirdnicht, is Trium Noctium hospes. Hoveden, pag. 606. Here it seemeth to signifie three Nights Charges for the Sheriffs-Tooth. Sheriffs-Tooth was a common Tax Le∣vied for the Sheriffs Diet.
• † 36.5

  It is in the Deed Judex, which is some∣times taken for a Judge, sometimes for a Jury-man or Freeholder; which Freeholders are by Law the Judges of a Court-Baron.
• * 36.6

  That is, out of the Limits of the Coun∣ty, as I con∣ceive, Lima being an old word for Limes.
• * 36.7

  The Deed runs thus, Et de Bershare in Foresta mea ad tres Arcus. Birsare, i. e. Telo configere: a Germ. Bir∣sen; So Spel∣man; To shoot an Ar∣row or Dart,
• * 36.8

  49 Hen. 3.
• * 36.9

  Note.
• * 36.10

  46 H. 3. 1262.
• * 36.11

  56 H. 3. 1261.
• * 36.12

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 36.13

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 36.14

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 36.15

  Originals pe∣nes Venables de Agden.
• * 36.16

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 37.1

  Id est, Sla∣vish Customs.
• † 37.2

  Common of Pasture, and Flaw-Turf, or Heath-Turf.
• * 37.3

  Id est, Hos∣pitio Expensa.
• * 37.4

  15 Die Au∣gusti.
• * 37.5

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 37.6

  To make his Hayment or Hedging.
• * 37.7

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 37.8

  Lib. B. pag. 208.
• * 37.9

  3 Decem∣bris 1589.
• † 37.10

  Decemb. 30. 1590. Regi∣ster of Great Budworth.
• * 37.11

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 37.12

  Or Marga∣ret.
• * 37.13

  If Fillote and Felice be here meant of the same Woman, and Daughter of the same John Hawar∣den, then is here some contradiction in the Evi∣dences, and the two Ro∣bert Astons confounded.
• * 37.14

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 37.15

  From this Sir Richard downwards the Pedegree is very clear.
• * 37.16

  2 die Junii.
• * 37.17

  The Origi∣nals penes Leycester de Tabley.
• * 37.18

  Houe Galli∣ce, an Instru∣ment of Hus∣bandry to break up the Earth.
• † 37.19

  Feu Gallice, Fire, Fewel.
• * 37.20

  Salicher, puto pro Saligerio, carrying of Salt from the Wich, a Service in those Ages very usual.
• * 37.21

  This was Piers Legh of Lime.
• * 37.22

  Ex Chartulis Legh de Bag∣giley.
• * 37.23

  Ex Chartulis Vice-Comitissae Kilmorey de Dutton.
• * 37.24

  Ex Chartulis Daniell of Over-Tabley.
• * 37.25

  Of Clyve, near to Mid∣dle-wich.
• * 37.26

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 37.27

  Ex Chartulis Georgii Baro∣nis de Dela∣mere apud Dunham-Massy.
• † 37.28

  Oswald was slain at Ma∣serfelt, saith Bede & Stow; which Powel (in his De∣scription of Wales before the Welsh History, pag. 14) saith, was in Northumberland, and not at Oswaldstrey; for Oswaldstrey was cal∣led by the Brettons, Maesuswalht, not Maserfelt: Yet Cambden's Britannia in Shropshire, pag. 452. will have him slain at Oswald∣strey, from whence it had its Name.
• * 37.29

  Bede de Hist. Ang. lib. 3. cap. 9.
• * 37.30

  The Steeple began to the built 1582. & was finish∣ed 1583.
• * 37.31

  See Lib D. pag. 176. T. Omnibus—Jo∣hannes le Sa∣vage de Sar∣cliffe, Salutem. Noveritis me dedisse Stephano le Eyr de Cesterfeld totum jus meum in Tenemento in Halywel gate. Datum apud Cester∣field, die Mercurii, in Festo Nativitatis Sancti Johannis Baptistae, 3 Edw. 2. 1310. Lib. D. pag. 180. n The Original among the Evidences at Rock-Savage, Anno Domini 1669.

  So that this John Savage who writ himself of Sarcliffe in Darbyshire, I conceive was Ancestor to the first John Savage of Clifton.
• {fleur-de-lys} 37.32

  Anno 5 Hen. 6. Johannes le Vernay (and other Feoffees) dederunt Johanni Savage Militi, & Ellenae Ʋxori ejus, Maneria de Pi∣cton, & Shibrok, & Advocationem Ecclesiae de Davenham, &c. quae Margareta (quae fuit Ʋxor Radulfi Vernon Militis) tenet in dotem; Remanere post decessum Margaretae, praefatis Johanni Savage, & Ellenae, & Haeredibus ipsi∣us Johannis Savage in perpetuum, Lib. D. pag. 174. I.

  So that Ellen the Daughter and Heir of Sir Raufe Vernon, seems to be the second Wife of this Sir John Savage.
• * 37.33

  Ʋnus militum pro Corpore Henrici Septi∣mi, 1494. 9 Hen. 7. Lib. C. fol. 186. ••.
• * 37.34

  See Stow's Annals, sub Anno 23 H. 7.
• * 37.35

  Aetat. 73.
• * 37.36

  This Sir John I find stiled Sir John Sa∣vage of Han∣ley in Worce∣stershire, sub Hen. 8. Lib. D. pag 171. S.
• * 37.37

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 37.38

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 37.39

  Lib. D. p 180.
• * 37.40

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 37.41

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 37.42

  This Tho∣mas Lord Darcy was after created Earl Rivers, 4 Novembris, 2 Car. 1. 1626
• * 37.43

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 37.44

  Ex Chartulis Daniell de Daresbery, 1649.
• * 37.45

  Ex Chartulis Georgii Baro∣nis de Dela∣mere apud Dunham-Massy, & alibi.
• * 37.46

  Lib. C. fol. 259. l.
• * 37.47

  This Hamon Massy was a younger Bro∣ther of Massy of Tatton, and afterwards the first Massy of Rixton in Lancashire, in Right of his Wife. See more of him in Tatton.
• * 37.48

  Li. C. fol. 75. o. The Part of Alice, who married Hamon Hilond, released Anno 21 Edw. 3. to the Earl of Lancaster, not yet Duke.
• * 37.49

  Frances died at Chester, and was buried at Bowdon, 10 Septem. 1669.
• * 37.50

  Ex Chartulis Duttonorum de Dutton.
• * 37.51

  The Warbur∣tons, Chedills, and Ashleys in Cheshire, are all originally Duttons.
• * 37.52

  13 Ed▪ 1. 1285.
• † 37.53

  V. I do con∣ceive here was another Hugh ••••••ton, Son and Heir of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Hugh, who married Murlel Daughter of Thomas le Dispenser, Lib. C. fol. 139. b and he had Issue Hugh, Thomas, John, and Adam, as there followeth. And if so, some of these Acts may belong to that Hugh, which are ascribed to this Hugh. See Lib. C fol. 164. I.
• * 37.54

  See the Deed at large supra pag 142. made about the end of King Johns Reign, or the beginning of Henry the Third.
• * 37.55

  Lib. C fol. 159. k.
• * 37.56

  Lib. C. fol. 164. d.
• * 37.57

  Vel 1 Hen. 5.
• * 37.58

  Lib. D. pag. 173. f.
• * 37.59

  8 Hen. 8.
• * 37.60

  Ex Chartulis Thomae Mer∣bury de Mer∣bury de Mer∣bury juxta Great Bud∣worth, Armi∣geri, 1666.
• * 37.61

  Ex Chartulis Merbury de Merbury ju∣xta Great Budworth.
• * 37.62

  Vel circa.
• * 37.63

  Vide supra, pag. 109.
• † 37.64

  Vide pag. 117.
• * 38.1

  Alii hic Sa∣ram legunt: Monasticon, 2 Pars, p 188. sed perperam ut opinor.
• * 38.2

  5 Rich. 1. 1194.
• * 38.3

  Nepos here signifies a Grandson, as properly the Word ought; but very fre∣quently in old Deeds it is used for a Nephew.
• * 38.4

  Sub libera custodia de∣tentus est, saith Paris; meaning (as I conceive) had liberty to go up and down at his Plea∣sure, on his Paroll or Word.
• * 38.5

  Monasticon, •• Pars p 188.
• * 38.6

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 38.7

  Lib. C. fol. 67 a
• * 38.8

  Ob. 1240. 22 Julii.
• * 38.9

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 38.10

  Aveline and all her Issue died before her Parents.
• * 38.11

  1 Edw. 3.
• * 40.1

  Novemb. 16.
• † 40.2

  3 Maii.
• * 40.3

  Corrupte pro Saltuariis, i.e. Forestars.
• * 40.4

  Stuth, i. e. Sheriff-tooth.
• * 40.5

  On the Sa∣turday.
• † 40.6

  Septemb. 8.
• * 40.7

  Novemb. 25.
• † 40.8

  Levied Hue and Cry.
• * 40.9

  A Master-Serjeant.
• † 40.10

  Two Ser∣vants.
• * 40.11

  Free-Quar∣ter for Meat Drink.
• * 40.12

  Rectius Pro∣benda, i.e. for Provand.
• * 40.13

  A Pledge to Sue, one bound to Pro∣secute. Vide Spelmanni Glossarium.
• * 40.14

  i. e. Trium noctium Ho∣spes: Here it seems to sig∣nifie Three Nights Char∣ges.
• * 40.15

  i. e. Nether-Pever.
• † 40.16

  i. e. Over-Alderley.
• * 41.1

  Willielmus Fi∣lius Radulfi de Raggiley.
• * 42.1

  That is, Ser∣vant.
• * 42.2

  Or, Over-Knotsford.
• * 44.1

  Per tertiam partem Feodi Militis, held of the Baron of Dunham-Massy; ut in Rentali de Dunham-Massy, de 3 Hen. 4 Lib. B. pag. 209.
• * 45.1

  Efforcement Gallice, Ut∣most endea∣vor, with all force and power.
• † 45.2

  By making of the Hedge and Common ••ence.
• * 45.3

  Hukin.
• * 45.4

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 45.5

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 45.6

  Out of the Originals re∣maining a∣mong the E∣vidences at Dutton, 1649.
• * 45.7

  Raufe Legh de East-Hall the last of that Lane, had three Daughters and Heirs; for Richard his Son died without Issue.

  Jane married Randle Spurstow of Spurstow; Margaret married Ro∣bert Shaw; and Katharine married Thomas Legh, Son and Heir of Ri∣chard Legh de West Hall, but had no Issue: After the married Richard Done of Flaxyards.
• * 46.1

  One of these Names is mistaken by Vernon, either Richard Chou∣nall, or Tho∣mas Chounall.
• * 46.2

  One of these Names is mistaken by Vernon, either Richard Chou∣nall, or Tho∣mas Chounall.
• * 46.3

  This Roger Manwaring was Son of Raufe Man∣waring Judge of Chester, about the Reign of Ri∣chard the first.
• * 46.4

  Ex Chartulis ejusdem Jo∣hannis Swin∣ton.
• * 46.5

  That was, Manwaring of Warmin∣cham.
• * 46.6

  Ex Chartulis Willielmi Beard.
• * 46.7

  Lib. B pa 16. n.
• * 46.8

  Ee is an old word for a Brook; and Ees is a Bank or Land lying by the side of a Brook, or Ri∣ver.
• * 46.9

  Vide Tom. 2. of my own Evi∣dences, in principio.
• * 46.10

  Lib. C. fol. 230. z.
• * 46.11

  Ex Chartulis Glover de Picmere.
• * 46.12

  Ranulfi, con Radulfi.
• * 46.13

  Holford's Coat is, Ar∣gent a Cheve∣ron between three Text Tees Sable.
• * 46.14

  Lostock's Coat, Argent, a Greyhound Sable.
• * 46.15

  Peter, the fourth Son, waited on James Earl of Darby, and married Frances Daughter of William Wolley of Warrington, Mercer, and Widow of one Pikford of London, Haberdasher, and had Issue James, Peter, and George; and also Frances, Mary, Anne, and Hannah.
• † 46.16

  This James Holford mar∣ried Marga∣ret Daughter of Matthew Carleton of Lincolns-Inn in London, and had Issue Thomas Holford, a Son; and Mary, a Daughter. James Holford died 1666 Mar∣garet his Wife died 1662.
• * 46.17

  Made Baron of Wich-Mal∣bank, Sept. 1. 1645.
• * 49.1

  On Good∣friday, 1308.
• * 49.2

  This was Hugh de Aud∣ley of Heeley-Castle in Staf∣fordshire.
• * 49.3

  Starkey of Stretton bear∣eth for his Coat of Arms A Stork; pos∣sibly in allusi∣on to his Name: scili∣cet, Agent, a Stork Sable, the Bill and Legs Gules.
• * 49.4

  Warbu••ton's Coat, Argent, two Cheverons Gules, in a Canton of the second a Mol∣let Or.
• * 49.5

  Of Starkey of the Lower-Hall.
• * 49.6

  Nether-Tabley of the Fee of St. John of Hierusalem.
• * 50.1

  Hauthoner, id est, Homo Loricatus.
• * 50.2

  Tom. 3. of my Evidences, fol. 116. b.
• * 50.3

  This Eliza∣beth was Bap∣tiz'd 23 Maii 1620 as by the Register of Ashley-Church in Staffordshire appeareth: Lib. B. pag. 156.
• * 50.4

  This Willi∣am de Tabley writ himself Dominus de Tabley, that is, de Over-Tab∣ley; & some∣times Domi∣nus de Knots∣ford: tempore Edw. 1.
• * 50.5

  This 12d. Rent is at this day paid to Leycester, by Th Warburton of Tabley-Hill; which Tene∣ment is Par∣cel of the Hall of Wood lands.
• * 50.6

  This Hugh died 1346. Lib. C. fol. 241.g.
• * 50.7

  {fleur-de-lys}
• * 50.8

  Ex Chartulis Roberti Pic∣kering de Thel∣wall.
• * 50.9

  M. num. 37.
• * 50.10

  F. num. 4.
• * 50.11

  Ex Chartulis Petri Brooke de Mere Mi∣litis, 1665.
• * 51.1

  Lib. B pag 59 Extracts out of Sir Thomas Manwaring of Pever's Deeds, 1665.
• * 51.2

  Ex Chartulis Willielmi Har∣court de Win∣sham, 1666.
• * 52.1

  Anno 19 R 2. Geffrey, Son of John Massy of Winsham, Sealed with a Cheveron be∣tween three Lozenges, written about the Seal, Si∣gillum Gal∣fridi Mas••y. Lib. C. fol. 266. num 5.
• * 52.2

  William Harcourt, third Son of John Harcourt of Ranton in Stafford∣shire Esquire, second Husband.