f UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS LIBRARY AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN STACKS UNIVERSITY LIBRARY UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN The person charging this material is responsible for its renewal or return to the library on or before the due date. The minimum fee for a lost item is $ 125 . 00 , $ 300.00 for bound journals. Theft, mutilation, and underlining of books are reasons for disciplinary action and may result in dismissal from ' the University. Please note: self-stick notes may result in torn pages and lift some inks. ' Renew via the Telephone Center at 217-333-8400, 846-262-1510 (toll-free) orcirclib@uiuc.edu. Renew online by choosing the My Account option at: http://www.library.uiuc.edu/catalog/ DEC 2 7 2006 Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2017 with funding from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Alternates https://archive.org/details/someaccountofcolOOpark Colton Parish, 18+5 A.D. Some Hccount of doltou anD of tbe 2)e Maetenc^s 3f amil^ BY THE RECTOR OF COLTON. TO ALL WHO ARE INTERESTED IN THE PARISH OF COLTON, STAFFORDSHIRE, THIS ATTEMPT TO THROW LIGHT ON ITS HISTORY IS INSCRIBED. “ Then muste we to bookes that we find Through which that olde thinges be in mind,” “ I spake to give credence To old stories, and do them reverence.” [Poem hy Geoffrey Chaucer.) [PRINTED FOR PRIVATE CIRCULATION./ BIRMINGHAM : Hudson and Son, Edmund Street. J 897. The writer gladly embraces this opportunity of recording his gratitude to the late Rev. R. W. Eyton, and to Major-Genrl. the Honble. George Wrottesley, for their incomparable work upon the Staffordshire Public Records ; to the Right Rev. Bishop Hobhouse ; to the late Francis Whitqreave^ Esq., of Burton Manor ; to the late Mr. T. J. de Mazzinghi, of the Salt Library ; to Mr. T. H. Jeayes, of the British Museum ; and others who have kindly assisted him. Especially to Frederic Bcnney, Esq., of Colton House ; and to the Rev. Charles F. Lowry Barnwell, Vicar of Stramshall, for the series of photographs they have taken to illustrate this Account oj Colton. a, A Zbc IHames of ]fielt>6 IHumbereb in tbe fIDap. 10 Higg’s Field 11 Over Croft 15 Itchen Hill 17 Nether Field 30 Wagstaff 64 Sheens 74 Part of Goldsworth 130 Lower Hadley 137 Big Wood 146 Little Wood 151 Snail Horn 153 Snail Horn Meadow 169 Little Park 172 Birchen Close 174 Town Field and Martlins 176 The Springs (Caldwell) 177 Mare Park 179 East Park Meadow 182 Big Dog Kennel Meadow 185 Little Dog Kennel Meadow 188 Big Park 189 Big Park 191 Upper Park 192 Hilly Park 193 Little Park 194 Big Heames, Hern’s, Leasow 199 Long Hurst Meadow 201 Long Hurst Meadow 202 Long Hurst Meadow 238 Sleetings 239 Upper Sleetings 240 Sleetings 241 Sleetings 242 Stockings 246 Hay (Ey) Meadow 248 Part of Stockings 249 Part of Ey Meadow 251 Ey Meadow Gap j 252 Ey Meadow Gap 255 Hay (Eye) Meadow 256 Trent Meadow 258 Lower Trent Field 259 Gosmore Ends 277 Ludgett 278 Crane Field 282 Little Trent Field 283 Great Trent Field 284 Little Trent Field 285 Lesser Trent Field 285a Lesser Trent Field 300 Chapel Yard 301 Coney Greave 304 Chapel Yard Meadow 307 Chapel Yard Meadow 309 Bear Croft 3 1 1 Sleetings 312 Sleetings 313 War Moor Meadow 315 Big Holme 316 Little Holme 318 Castle Croft 390 Lawn Wood 391 Longley Wood 392 Finner’s Hill 393 Carp Pit Wood 399 Blackwell Wood 420 Phinner’s Hill 448 Park Meadow 449 Little Park 450 Great Park 462 Sentalf Leasow 463 Sentaff 464 Sentaff 465 Sentaff 466 Sentaff Piece 467 Near Wood 468 Middle Wood 469 Far Wood 478 Part of the Park 478a Part of the Park 478b Part of the Park 492 Long Hamley 586 Moor I- J "K ' ' . rv '- .1' . V ' Colton Church from the Bridge. SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. The liistoiy of the Parish of Colton, which first appeared in 1881 , a.d., is now to he reprinted in a fuller, and, it is hoped, more accurate form, owing to the valuable series of Staffordshire records published by the William Salt ” Archaeological Society ; and to the oppor- tunities for further research gained in the last sixteen years ; which have corrected many errors, and brought to light much that relates generally to Colton, and to the De Wasteneys family in particular. If, especially in its earlier stage, the account is chiefly taken up with details of some interest perhaps to Colton people, but of little or no impor- tance to their neighbours, it must be ])leaded that few public events can Ije connected with a country village, particular!}^ when it stands retired from a main road, and Avhen, as in the present instance, it 2 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON lias not been the home of any one historical family, like Ferrars of Cliarteley, or Talbot of Ingestre, but lias passed into the bands of several knightly houses, possessing other and larger estates else- where, and having soinetinms little connection with the place- — saA^e that of property. Tlie deeds gh^en in the appendix, and noAv considerably augmented, may be of rise to anyone Avho shall undertake to AVi’ite a complete history of the county ; if so, they may be taken as an excuse for re-printing the present work. The earliest mention of Colton is to be found, as might be expected, in the survey of William the Conqueror. “The King’s Commissioners in the year 1085, visited the greater part of his neAv dominions, summoning before them the sheriff, the chief landoAvners, the representatives of the hun- dreds, with the priest, the reeve, and six a illeins from the toAvnships of eA^ery shire, that they might describe on oath the condition of the land, the name of each manor, or toAvnship, its jwesent and former holders, its extent in hides, the number of ploughs Avhich it employed, the name of the homagers, the Aulleins, cotters and serfs, Iioaa^ many free-men, how many soke-men, the extent of Avood, meadoAV, and pasture, the mills and fisheries, if any, the increase or decrease since the time of King Edward the Confessor, together AAuth the A^alue of each holding.” Domesday,” quoted by Stubbs). On all questions of rating and the tenure of lands, their report became the recognised AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 3 authority, and was styled ‘^Domesday” book, as being* the register for final ajjpeal, by whieh sentence and judgment might be given in disputed cases. Colton is entered iwice in the Staffordshire Domesday ; a fact which entirely escaped the notice of Erdeswick and Walter Chetwynd, who have recognised only the de Stafford Manor. In the earliest publication of these notes (v. outline, Trent Valley” Parish Magazine), it was suggested that two lordships might be included in Colton ; for manors were not necessarily co-ex tensive with parishes ; and reasons were afterwards given in favour of recognising both, which need not be repeated here, but it was left uncertain; and the credit of deciding the question rests with Mr. Eyton and General Wrottesley; as will appear, when we consider the Colton of 1166, A.D., in their valuable notes on the Liber Niger” Baronies of Fitz-Alan and de Stafford. Beginning with the year 1086 A.D., the Stafford- shire Domesday tells us, that — in the days of Edward the Confessor — Ahnund, a free-man, held a manor in Coltone, which had ^lassed at the date of the survey into the hands of a Norman* lord named Azeline, or Asselin, a man of some con- sequence, holding no less than four manors in Pirehill hundred ; Cote, Coltone, Ridware, and Locksley ; under the great Ikxron Roger de Mont- ^ More correctly “ a Francigenus.” 4 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON goniory, who led the centre of William’s army at the 1)attle of Hastings, and was subsequently created Earl of Slirewshiiry and Arundel. Azeline’s tenure is thought to have been by castle guard against the Welsh. The Earl Avas ‘ the chief lord of those inarches of Wales, and it is certain that the jVIavesyns, Asselin’s descendants, held land in Colton shortly afterwards by that tenure. Under the schedule of the de Stafford fees, Ave find another manor, called by the name of Coltune,” Avhich had formerly belonged to the free men, Odo and Uluric, but AA^as noAV held, of Robert de Stafford, by one Geoffrey | Goisfrid]. Asselin’s Colton Manor, subsequently called Marshall’s and Griffyn’s Manor, was estimated at one Hide. There Avere four plough gangs of arable land. In the demesne two teams AA^ere AAan-king Avith four serfs, while fourteen Aullani,* or husband- men of the Aullage, and the Priest, had three teams cultiA^ating the remainder. There Avas a AAU)od of about acres in extent, the Avhole AA^as a allied at Villeins were the settled cultivators of the land, whose services were sold with it, for they were not suffered to leave their homes. Tliey possessed, however, certain rights, having a voice in the management of their village and sending lepresenta- tives to the moots of the hundred and the shire, and being free from the dangers of military service. Under a fairly good lord their position was by no means the worst .” — Vide Stubb’s C, History. The Leuga or League = 12 furlongs, or quarentines. t Domesday measurements are always difficult to estimate, and generally little to be trusted ; but taking Mr. Eyton’s view of AND OF THE 1)E WASTENEYS FAMILY. 0 40s. Togetlier with tliis manor tlio survey mentions a separate half hide, Avhieli pertained to Col tone, held in the Confessor’s time by Ahnar, a Saxon ; ]\rr. Eyton, commenting on the Staffordshire Domesday, and not knowing the locality, held this to be obsolete; but he was mistaken, for it is un- questionably the so-called manor of Little Hay,” which then, as now, extended into the adjoining })arish of Mavesyn Ixidware, likewise allotted to Asselin ; although the dwelling house itself was in Colton, and the larger portion of the manor — (vide the last perambulation of the boundary giA^en in the appendix). The entry, in fact, only confirms the accuracy of the Norman survey. We notice that no mill is mentioned on Asselin’s estate. Geoffrey’s Manor represented the other portion of Colton ; and can still be clearly traced, being identical Avitli the luitltheablc^'' land. Colton Hall farm ])reserves the name —and, practically, the site — of the Lord’s house. Here the arable land amounted to six plough-gangs ; in the demesne Avas a single Avorking team, while ten ‘‘ \dllani,” and one serf, employed three other teams — leaving the Avorking poAver deficient by two teams. There Avas a Avater-mill, A^alued at Is. yearly, occupying the site of the present mill, on the river Trent, adjoining the the modern acre average of the “ Slajfordshire Domesday hide ” as 1,457 acres, or thereabouts, we have Asser’s Manor= 1,457 acres ; Almar’s half hide = 728 acres ; Geoffrey’s Manor = 1,457 acres. — Total, 3,642 acres ; which is very near the acreage of Colton Parish. 6 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON station. Sixteen acres of (eiK'losed ?) meadow, and a wood, one league lon^ ])y tliree quarentines wide (about acres) — covering, we conclude, tlie site of the Ashley] lay,” ‘^^lorehay,” Old,” and “Hurst” Woods, and po’ssibly extending to the “ Old ” Park Woods. Evidently, Asselin’s ^fanor was in the better case of the two (as we might expect from his residence ]jeing in tlie immediate neighl)ourho()d '. It had one team in excess of tlie estimated arable land ; with a large proportion of labourers, say one to (c) 1 00 acres of actual surface ; while in Geoff rey^s Manor we noticed a deficiency of working power by two teams ; and when we deduct tlie separate half hide* of “Little Hay” from Asselin’s estate, a much smaller pro})ortion of men to the area. Sub- sequently, Asselin’s Manor possessed a mill at Haniley, but with so little water-power, that it could never have lieen efficient, which accounted for the erection of a windmill (c. liic. 2 ?) at Bellamour end (v. Gresley deed, and Field names). The earliest mention of the Hamley Mill is circa. 1290 A. I)., wlien the mill ditch is referred to. * The hide did not represent the acreage but the rateable value of the land. Perhaps the liability to provide a man at arms (not a knight) as suggested by the Rev. Jacob Ley. It .seems that every full holding of the villein, comprised thirty acres (t.e. the usual virgate or yardland), scattered, how- ever, in the open fields, in strips, and having certain rights of common according to the size of the holding — the smaller hold- ings being fractions of the virgate (v. Somerset Records, vol. 5, p 240, Ac). AND OF THE DE WA8TENEYS FAMILY. 7 Taking a general view of the Colton of Doines- (lav survey, tlie land would he found entirelY^ unenclosed, save for a few small grass-crofts in tlie immediate neighbourhood of the lord’s house and of the village ; ditclies possiljly separating the meadoAvs. The aralile grounds Avere divided Ijy green baulks, or strips, about three yards in Avidtli, into fields of nearly equal size, generally three in number, cultiAYated in rotation. Tlie Avhole toAAUi- ship being managed as one common farm ; roads, as Ave understand the Avord, Avere unknoAvn, but in their stead Avere rough tracks and foot})aths, taking generally the same course as our most frecpiented AVTiys. SAATimps and bogs abounded in the loAA^-lying grounds, and have left their traces unmistakeably in the jiarish land, Avhich still retains the name of the Marsh.” In the Bogs folloAving the course of the “ Drimble Hole” at StoclvAvell Heath, and again in the “ Marshea Flats,” thickets and coppices Avere scattered over the parish, besides the principal Avoods already noticed. The Lord’s house, roughly built of timber, and devoid of anything like comfort, stood in, or close to the field adjoining the church, still known as the Castle Croft,” and was protected by a ditch and AYooden palisade. ‘'The Marsh,” making a formidable defence on the south side ; the brook affording some additional security toAvards the Avest. It Avill generally be found that the Lord built the church as close as possible to his own dwelling. 8 80ME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Good examples of tlie custom are to be seen at Blitlifield, Hamstall- and Mavesyn-llidware, Gayton, Colwicli, and other villages in the neighbourhood. The church of that day would probabb/ be con- structed of wattle, or some e({ually perishable material, roofed with tliatch. This, or something resemlding it, was tlie state of things in Colton within tAventy years of the Norman Conquest. The over-lordship (jf ^Montgomery’s, or Asselin’s, maiKjr was soon forfeited by the rebellion of liobert de Belesme, the able but turbulent son of Earl Roger ; when it passed to the Eitz- Alan’s; ^‘between 1B35 and 1160 a.d., the first William Fitz-Alan con- stituted, among other new fees, that of Walter Hose (or Hussey), which gave him the homage and service of the Mavesyn, who was Eitz- Alan’s, Colton tenant.” ^‘Walter was succeeded by his son Ralph, circa. 1172 A. in, in the mesne lordship of Colton, which made up elsewhere what Avas needed for a full knight’s fee, under Fitz-Alan (al Eyton, S, H. C. 1., 219). While the fact of the Eitz-x\lan oA^er-lordship explains the entry in the Ripe rolls of 1175-6 a.d.; where — folloAving upon the fine for forest trespass, laid on the Colton Manor.” Villata de Colton Roherti de Stafford reddit compotum de 2 marcis pro eodem”(^^A., de misericordia pro foresta), Ave find “Villata de Colton de feodo Wlllelml filii alani^ reddit compotum de 6 marcis ])ro eodem.’’ We liaA^e thus a mesne tenure inserted in the titliealde manor of Colton, betAveen the Seigneur and the sul)-tenant avIio actually lield AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 9 the land. It was afterwards extinguished, when the great family of Mareschall ac({uired the seigneuiy, and compelled its surrender between 1277 and 128d a.d. The suit of 1208 a.d., quoted below (a) shows clearly, as Mr. Eyton observes, the feudal position of lialph Hose and his tenant Nicholas Mavesyn of Colton, with their different views of Mavesyn’s obligations —Nicholas asserting that lie held of Hose by the service of half a warder at the castle of Oswestry ; and Ralph claiming besides the rent of a silver marc. Apparently, Ralph established this claim, for the P.M.I., of a.d. 1277, show the descendant of Nicholas continuing to pay it to William de Mareschall. who then held the manor of John Hose. The roll is sufficiently important to be given here at length. [Assize Roll, 5 King JoJin^ 12U3 A.Z>., Staffs. Hist. Coll.., vol. 3, ]). 108.] A. — Assisa venit recognitura si Nicholaus Malveisin injuste et sine judicio dissaisivit Radulphum Hose de libero tenemento suo in Coltona, post coronacionem doinini Regis apud Cantuar. Et Nicholaus venit et dicit quod ipse tenet tenenien- turn unde hoec assisa araniata est de ipso Radulpho, per servicium diniidii ascensoris ad custodiam castelli de Albo monasterio, et illud servicium paratus est facere, sed idem Radulphus exigit ab eo, ut dicit, illud servicium et preterea unam marcani argenti, ita cpiod in Curia sua emu inde implacita- vit, et tunc protulerit ipse breve Justiciariis in quo 10 80ME ACCOUiNT OF COLTON continetur, quod non exigat ab co coiisuetudines vel servicia, quo facorc non dol)et vcd coiisuevit, et illud brevo venit loquela in coniitatiq et ibi deducta fuit quousque illud breve non vendilatuni fuit, et petit eonsiderationein Curice si a.ssi.sa ista deberat procedere ; et Uadulplius dicit ([uod i])se senq^er fecit ei illud servicium unius inarcce, et diinidii ascensoris de teneinento quod de eo tenet in Colton, donee ipse dissaisivit emn de illo servicio, et offert domino Regi unain marcam pro liabenda inquisitione utruin deberat illud servicium nec ne ; oblatio recipitur, et Nicliolaus j^onit se in inagnani assisam doinini Regis, et petit recognicionem fieri utruin ipse debet tenere tenementum, quod de eo tenet in Colton, per servicium diinidii ascensoris ad custodian! castelli de albo Monasterio, tantum sicut ipse cognoscit, an per servicium diinidii ascensoris et preterea reddendo ei unain marcam per annum sicut ab eo exigitiir; et Willelmus Verdon de Ypestan, Walteriis de Witefeld, Jobannes de Sautclieverell, Nicliolaus de Buregeston, qiuitiior milites, venerunt et eligerunt istos ad faciendam inde magnam assisam scilicet Willielmum de Gresele, Willielmum de Handesacre, Robertum de Thanienliorn, 'riiomam de Kersewell, Nicolaum de Saiit, Hamonem de AVeston, Jordanum de Knit- lega, Pliilippum filiiim Kpiscopi, Petruin Giffard llugonem filiuin Petri, Gaufridum ISelvein, Mansel de Patleslmll, Jeraume de Ciircun, Radulplium de Blori', Robertum de Barre, Henricum del Broi*, AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 11 To return now to tlie Mavesyn’s — we found the first of the line in Azeline, or Asselin, of Domesday, the undoubted ancestor of that family (S. H. C., vol. i., 222, &c). The name variously spelt occurs in more than one copy of Battle roll. ‘‘ Malure et Malvesyn ” (as given in Bromton’s List), “ Mangysir et Mauvesyn ” (according to Leland). Third in descent from this man came Sir Hugh de Mavesyn, who established himself on a rough steep hill in the district of Blithbury, adjoining Colton, and founded St. Giles’ Priory* by the river Blythe, where the Priory Farm now stands, between the 80th year of King Henry First and the 14th of King Stephen (1180 — 1149 A.D.); subsequently he removed his own dwelling lower down to the banks of the Trent, in the village of Mavesyn Ridware, which still bears his name. An ancient gate- house marks the site, and Sir Hugh’s tomb is * Shaw seems to have failed in discovering “ Gawley ; ” it is probably identical with “Gailey,” a hamlet on the old Watling Street Road (near to the “ Spread Eagle ” station on the L N.W. Railway. It has recently been made a district parish. For an account of this Priory (and the deed here alluded to), which was suppressed by Cardinal Wolsey, see Dugdale’s “ Monasticon,” vol. 4, p. 160, where Shaw’s errors are clearly pointed out. The graveyard of the Priory remains, and some trace of the ancient materials in the surrounding fence. “The green at Blithbury, where the four roads meet kept the name of ‘ St. Giles’ green until the 16th century, and was marked by a stone cross. (Shaw.) 12 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON to be seen in the “Trinity aisle” of tlie parisli church. Contemporary witli this man’s sons and siic(‘ess(u\s in Rid ware, according to Sha\Y’« account, was Rol^ert, or ratlier Ralph Mavesyn, probaldy another son, who held land in Colton. Like many others of his name he was a distinguished soldier, and bore arms in the coiupiest of Ireland, receiving subsequently from Philip de Braose two Lordships in the county Limerick, containing as many as ten knight’s fees, Kelmukelloc, the modern Kilmallock, and Kil- mackena. Ralph Mavesyn, of Colton, left two sons, Nicholas Mavesyn de Colton, the elder, granted half a virgate of land here to Gilbert, his brother (circa. 1185 a.u.). The deed (quoted by Shaw) will be found in the appendix, it is Avitnessed amongst others, by Gerald and Geoffrey de Colton, and bears the seal of Nicholas, AAdio is represented charging on horseback, fully armed and brandishing his sAVord. It is suggested (Staffs. Hist. Coll., xol. 3, p. 195), that Nicholas Mavesyn (I.), grantor of Stallington, to Stone Priory (c. 1150 a.d.), Avas tlie tenant of Colton Manor, under Fitz-Alan ; that he AA^as followed by Henry, his brother; and he, in turn, by Nicholas MaA^esyn (11. ), whom General Wrottes- ley identities with the Nicholas of Colton (Assize roll, 1203 A.D.). But is this certain? because Nicliolas (11.) left no sou, Ids iiejdieAv Herbert being Ids lieir (ax Stone Cliarters). \yiiereas, Nicliolas of Colton, Avho Avas tlie son of Ral})h Mavesyn, had a AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 13 son William, who succeeded him. It is quite possible that there were two Mavesyns named Nicholas at this date, since there were several branches of the family. Nothing* important is known about the main line of the Mavesyn family in relation to Colton. It was certainly connected with this place for at least ten descents ; but not to any considerable extent. With a view, however, to simplifying* the account, we will so far anticipate matters as to complete what little there is to tell of their interest here. Sir Henry Mavesyn, seventh of his line, held land here adjoining* Blithbury ; and his successor. Sir Robert Mavesyn, levied a fine on his property generalh , including ‘‘ Wheaten Acre,” in Colton. Whilst his grandson and namesake, another Sir Robert, besides witnessing* a grant of land here to John de Gresley, from Sir Thomas de Morley, the Marshal of Ireland, himself conveyed to him a croft in Colton.* Sa*s*e for their signatures to Colton deeds, we have no further concern with these elder Mavesyns ; their influence in Colton was not of long* continuance after the death of Asselin, and never exceeded tliat which would naturally belong* to a powerful neigh- bouring family. Their small property here seems to have been ultimately surrendered by David Cawarden and his wife (temp. P. & Mary.) The Mavesyns bore for their arms, a shield gules, three bends (or bendlets) argent.” * 1383 A.D. is the date of this conveyance. Gresley Chartu- lary, Chetham Library, Manchester. 14 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON ]^ut if tlie influence of the elder” line was incon- siderahle, that of the younger was equally marked. As resident lords of the Little Hay” manor, and certainly connected (though how nearly we can scarcely determine) with the De Coltons of the church manor, they shared with these last the lead in Colton affairs during the frequent absence of the De Wasteneys. (Witness the assize-rolls and charters of this date.) 1199 A.i). Lesciline and Alice, sisters, bringing into court their right to inherit six acres of land and three of meadow here, recovered them from Nicholas, son of Ealph. The same Nicholas Mavesyn, in 1208 A.D., laid claim to present a rector to Colton Churcli, in the room of Richard, the priest, de- ceased (b) ; but a verdict was given for William Griffyn, in right of Ids wife Alice, the daughter of Gei-ald ; and forWarin (Griffyn) de Colton, in right of his ward Hugh de Colton, the son of Matilda ami nepliew of Gerald on the mother’s side — Gerald liaving presented on tlie previous vacancy. 4’he AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 15 Eisliop was therefore to admit a fitting- candidate on their nomination. (b) “ Assisa venit recognitura qnis advocatus tem- pore pacis presentavit ultimam personam, qnemortua est, ad ecclesiam de Couton, que vacat ut dicitur, ciijns advocationem Willelmus Griffyn et Alicia uxor ejiis, et Walriniis de Couton diciint ad se per- tinere, et illam clamant versus Nicholaum Malveisin et juratores dicunt quod Geraldus j^ater predicte Alicie, et avunculus Hugonis quern Warinus pre- dictus hahet in custodia, presentavit ultimam per- sonam, scilicet Eicardum presbyterum. Et judicium quod i 2 rsi habeant breve ad episcopum loci, quod admittat idoneam personam ad presentationem eorum ad ecclesiam illam ; et Nicholaus in miseri- cordia.’’ (Assize lioll, 5 King John, 1208 a.d. Hist. Coll. Staffs.) If we compare this suit with the entry which follows, we find clear evidence that Nicholas Mavesyn and Nicholas son of Ealph are identical. For there Stephen Meverell, one of the jurors on the assize for Colton advowson, Ijetween Nicholas son of Ralphs and William son of Griffyn, &c. (ut supra), excused his non-attendance, pleading the difficulty of the journey, as did John de Blithfield and Eobert de Burley. Of Gerard de Colton, who Avas either sole or joint lord of the church manor here, c. 1175 a.d., Ave have no further knowledge, except his signature to a Mavesyn deed. He may have been nearly connected with the MaAmsyns — but I doubt that 16 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON connection being on the father’s side. Tlie tenure wliicli divided this churcdi manor, togetlier witli the advowson, between liis sister’s son and his own daughter is remarkable. '^^diomas, the father of Hugli by Matilda, is probably the Thomas de Colton fined two marcs for forest trespass in 11 To (v. Pipe Rolls, Hist. Coll. Staffs.). A claim was raised 5 King John against Nicholas son of Ralph for seven and a-half acres of land and one and a-half of meadow in Colton by Juliana the daughter of Ralph, who established her right through her father. It is followed immediately by another entry where Juliana, in right of Ralph, claims four acres of land in Lindenscroft,” now held by Peter the Turner, who answered that he only held it as part of the wardship of one Thomas, son of Reginald, whose hdieritance it was. Not satisfied with this, and pursuing her cause against Thomas in a plea tided at Gloucester later in the year, Juliana was defeated, dJiomas being now described as the son of Roger. The land was held in socage tenure. The history of the de Stafford Colton Manor is almost a blank for about 80 years, after the Domes- dav survey ; but we know that it was held bv the de Wasteney’s, who were to be connected with Colton for so long a time. To judge from the earliest spelling of the name (de Gastiney’s ”), tliis family must have come from the district called the ‘Glastinois,” lying to the soutli of Paris, and east of Orleans ; tlms mucli is certain that the first of the Englisli line was a AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 17 follower of Robert cle Stafford, and enfeoffed by that baron, both in his Lincolnshire and Staffordshire estates, (v. notes on Liber Niger, S. H. Coll., Yol. i.) Tlie generally received tradition, (following an old French MS. belonging to the Gresley’s) would recognise this ancestor in Ardulph (Hardolph) who held the manor of Osgarthorp, in Leicestershire, under Henry de Ferrers, a.d. 1086, and some pedigrees, including Erdeswick’s, do not hesitate to give him the surname of de Wastineys.”t there is no authority for so doing ; for whilst the close connection between Colton and Osgarthorp, together with the fact that Sir Edmund de Wastineys, about 1290 a.d., gave the name of Hardolph to his eldest son, are sound arguments in favour of some kind of relationship, yet his claim to be the founder of the Wastineys” family would need to be established on much better proof, even if it were not directly contrary, as it happens, to the reliable evidence of an early charter, which clears up this important point by supplying the missing links in the pedigree. Besides the Osgarthorp Manor already men- tioned, King Henry the First conferred on Hardolph and his heirs certain other Leicestershire lands at Ash- fordby and Wartnaby the date of the grant is not mentioned, but may be pretty accurately determined by the witnesses’ names —the Count de Meulan, t A copy of Battle-roll couples the names of “ Wastineys et Waville,” 18 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON or Mellent, Henry’s minister and favourite, being* one of them ; and another, Geoffrey de Riddel, the justiciary, wlio was drowned in tlie wreck of the White Ship” (Nov. 25, 1120 a.d)."^ Hardolph is said to have l)een twice married, ( 1 ) to Bertha, and (2) Ravenilda. His son Robert sold the Ashfordby land to the great A1)bey of Leicester; and about 1165 A.D. obtained from Bertram de Verdon a con- siderable addition to his Osgarthorp estate besides a further grant in the same place from Hugh, Earl of Cliester.f * H. Rex Angl : Rob to de Pauilli et omnibus baronibus et fidelibus suis Franc’ et Ang’ de Legecestresira sal.’ Concede huic Hardulpho, suisque heredibus in feudu et ejus hereditariu 4 carr terroe cii molendino et pratis et pascuis eisdem pertinentibus, quieta servitio pro 4 libris p’ annum, et 2 carr quas mo tenet in Oiferdebi de done Alswini Wredes (or Alfwini Wrethet?) p. xl. solid ; et in eodem OlFerdebi, similiter in feudu 2 alias carr’ terroe pr 10 solid quas eide Alswinus Wredes concessit, et post obitu suu cora me, et meo concessu, Hardulphu inde hereditariu, et 1 carr terne in Wargnodebi similiter in feudu et ejus here- ditariu qeta ab omni servitio pr’ 8 solid p. annum, et ipse inde e mens horn’ legius, et volo, et percipio ut terras istas bene et in pace et qete et honorifice teneat, cu consuetudinibus et liberatibs cu qbs mo sunt, ut nemo ei inde injuria aut contumelia faciat, Testi ’Com de Melland et Cosfrid Ridel et Rbto de Ferrariis, apud Windesor. (Gresley Chart?) Habemus ibidem ex concessione et quieta donatione Robert! filii Walteri, venditionem quam Robertas filius Hardulphi nobis fecit de tota terra sua quam habebat in Ashfordby. (Done before Roger, son of Ref rid, Justiciary of our Lord the King 1186 A.D Register of Leicester Abbey, quoted by Nichols.) t H, comes Cestrue, const’, dapifer, justic’, omnibus hominibus Franc et Angl’ Roberto filio Hardulphi et heredibus AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 19 Earl Hugh’s grant is particularly valuable for throwing light on the cle Verclon charters, J to Robert son of Harclulph, and Robert son of Walter, at Osgarthorp. The first of which is as follows (v. Gresley Cliarters, No. 10) — Bertram de Verdon conveys to Robert, son of Hardulph, all his land of Hangodesthorp (Osgarthorpe),^ Co. Leic ; which the said Bertram holds from Nigel de Munevilla, j^aying yearly fourteen shillings, ^^with Scordun and Stocwuda and Snape.” — Witnesses, Roger de Amun- devile, Alan fil Mainsenini, Roger son of William, Simon, his brother, Philip de Estlee, Robert de Flameville, Ernald de Barewelle (Barnwell ?) Ernald daj^ifer, Henry de Lee, Geoffrey de Norman ville, Richard de Boisdele, Robert de Culunces, Waim clericus, Geoffrey clericus. Wide {i.e, Guy) de Verdun, William the Saracen, Robert Venator (late H. 2). The other grant at a later date con- firming the same to Robert son of Walter’s heirs, by Dina, his wife, the daughter of the above-mentioned Robert Fitz-Hardulph. X “ FJertramus de Verdon omnibus hominibus Franc’ et Angl’, &c. . . . confirmasse Roberto filio terr’ de Angodesthorp que de feudo meo, sibi ad tenendum de Hamone til’ Meinselini et heredibus pro hoinagio honorifice. Test’ Gilberto Picot, et Roberto’ fratr’ ejus. Roberto fil Walteri, Ac. Hugh Gyveliok (not Lupus, as generally supposed). Lupus died 1101 A . D. The meadow called “Snape” occurs as de Wastineys’ property in a deed of King John’s time. — Vide Nichol’s “ Leicestershire.” 20 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Walteri, et licrcdibus quas liabebit do Dna Dina uxore ejus, filia Kobcrti filii Hardulpbi, totam terrain do Angodestliorp quain teneo de Nigello de More villa. Test’ Thome ^ Disjiensatore, Willmo Brito, Henrico Toclie, Bado Binga.” Robert Fitz-Hardulpli bad already received these lands from Bertram de Verdon, who now settles them on Roliert’s daughter Dina, her husband and their heirs. Amphelis, their second daughter, in turn conveys them with her hand to her husband Sir Philip de Wastineys. The 2)edigree then stands thus : — Hardulph, Lord of Osgarthorji. Robert, son of Hardulph, Lord of Osgarthorp. I Dina, d. of Robert, son of Hardulph, married to Robert, son of Walter. 1 Auqihelis, their second daughter, who marries Sir Philip de Wastineys, of Colton, and conveys to him the Leicestershire estates. Thus most of the pedigrees are shown to be in- correct, and the connexion between Hardolph and the Wastineys is proved to have been only through the female line. The large inheritance of Amphelis enriched the de Wastineys’ family with lands not only at Osgarthorp, but also at Kirkeby, Hunetorp, Frengeston and Hemington — places easily iden tided in the map of Leicestershire, AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 21 Inter Wm. de Verdon et Alicia uxore ejiis, et Pliillipu de Wastineis et Anijdielicia ux’ sua, et Simone de Sane to Mauro et Isolda uxore suain, de toto teneniento quod tenuit Dina, mater, predictaru Alici, Amplielici’, et Isold.* The share of A.mphelis is as follows : — Philippo vero de Wastineis et Amphelissoe pro parte sua remanent tenementa Poherti et Dime, et quod Rohertus, filius Walteri, tenuit in Kirkelji, et quod Juliana de Darnell t ten et quod dicta Dina tenuit in Angodesthorpeij; et Ilunetorp et ITengeston et 2 virg’ terroe in Hemington, quas Hugo de Waldo et Prune tenuerunt, et servicium Williehni de Neylston. But wide as the Leicestersliire lands were, which his great-grandaughter’s hand brought to her husband, they gave Hardolph no claim to be called de Wastineys.” The true founder of the family, as already noticed, was Goisfrid (or Geoffrey), the same who occurs in the Lincolnshire Domesday, as homo Roberti de Stafford, holding of that baron, fiefs in Brune, Carleby, and especially Braseburg [besides the Staffordshire fee of Colton] . These Lincolnshire lands, lay in the south west corner of the county, and continued to be the chief seat of the de Wasti- neys family. The Pipe roll (17 K. John), 1215 a.d., ^ Vide Gresley Chartulary. Chetham Library. Manchester. t Juliana de Darnell appears again as concerned in the Leicestershire law suit. I Osgarthorpe is variously written as Osgodesthorpe, Aggedes- thorpe, Hangodesthorpe, and even Hasgotetorp. 22 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON g’ives a suit of Joceus de Wastineys, against Philip de Wastineys, who married Amphelis, for half a knight’s fee in Carlehy, though at this time Baldwin Wake was mesne Lord of the Wastenejs’ Lincolnshire Manors — under Milisent de Stafford — and over Philip de Wasteneys ” (Eyton, vol. 2, S. H. C., p. 165). The Hundred rolls of Lincoln- shire, 4 Ed. I. (1276 A.D.), prove William de Wasteneys to have held a quarter of a knight’s fee in Thurlby, of Hugh Wake, and he of Hervey Bagot, who holds of the King in cajnte, as part of the honor of Stafford, of old feofment. William de Waste- neys holds by similar tenure, half a knight’s fee in Bressingburn, and one fee in Carleby. In 1254 A.D., Sir William had obtained a royal charter of free warren, both for these lands and for his Colton Manor. The Staffs Liber Niger,” or black roll of the Exchequer — a return of knights > fees throughout the kingdom, made 1166 a.d., by the Barons of the Exchequer, when King Henry 11. demanded an aid for the marriage of his daughter Matilda, to Henry, the Lion, Duke of Saxony ; or, as some hold, ^Lnade for general fiscal purposes, connected with the levy of scutage ’’ — gives the names of William and Geoffrey de Wasteneys, as follows : — Carta Robti de Stafford. “ Wilhelmiis de AVastineis tenet food 11. militum in suo dominio. ‘‘ Galfridus de AVastineis tenet feodum 1. militis 23 AND OF THE DE WASTENEY’s FAMILY. et tertiam militis,* scilicet diias partes in suo clominio et \¥illielmus de Caldona diias partes militis tenet de ipso.f’’ Were further proof recpiired it is to he found in one of the Ridware deeds quoted by Nichols (vol. 3 p. 1004), sanctioning* in de Stafford’s court a quit- claim on William de Ridware’s estate from Robert and Simon Cappe, and signed by Geoffrey de Was- tineys, as well as by William and Robert, sons of William de Wastineys, among many others, includ- ing seven members of the Bagot family (dating c. 1158-65 A.D.) Two brothers, William and Robert de Wasteneys, who occur in a Lincolnshire business of 3 R. 1 (1191 A.D.) are possibly identical with those here mentioned. Full particulars of these names will be found in Staffs, hlist. Coll. (vol. 2 pp. 248-51), where the deed is printed at length, and annotated by Mr. Eyton. Sir William’s two fees were the Colton manor, with the Lincolnshire lands already described. Sir William could not have been born much later than 1120 A.D., because his sons did suit in Robert De Stafford’s court c. 1160 a.d., which, as General Wrottesley notices, would leave but little time for re-feofment, since Domesday, to another family ; whilst, supposing Goisfrid of 1086 a.d. to have * This represents Tixall, with its two involved manors of Tixall and Broncot (Staffs. Hist. Coll. vol. 2, p. 250). t Caldona (not Coldona). ^'‘Caldon-on-the-Moors^^ possibly. 24 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON died without issue ; and an entirely new feofment to have been made ; it is all but impossible that it should have been formed from these identical manors in the same two counties.” Mr. Ey ton’s authority may be quoted in support of this view, “that, when a certain tenant is found holding dif- ferent manors of one feudal lord, and you meet with the same manors held two or three generations afterwards by a tenant under the same feudal su 2 )erioi’s, and by the same service, the second tenant is the undoubted descendant of the first.” That the name Geoffrey continued in the family, is proved by Liber Niger, and by the pedigree of the Tixal line. Who succeeded “Goisfrid” we cannot say posi- tively. The probability is that the William and Geoffrey of 1166 a.d., thougli the former had sons already of age, were themselves the grandsons rather than the sons of Geoffrey ; if so, one genera- tion has been lost. That Sir Geoffrey held the Tixall fee, and founded that branch of the family, is certain from Alan de Nevil’s roll, where “ Tikes- hala Gaufridi ” is fined and pays one marc. His elder l)rother, the Sir William already referred to, was married, we l)elieve, to Alice de Acton, and had certaiidy two sons, William and Robert, the same present c. 1160 and 1191 a.d., as has been already stated. In tlie Assize Roll, 1202 a.d., we find Josceus, son of Robert de Wastinais, suing Philq) de Was-' tinais, son of William, to receive liis homage and AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 25 relief, &c., for the land he claims to hold of him in Brune. PhilijJ comes and complies before the justices. (M. 5 Boll 11. Staffs. Hist. Coll. vol. 8 p. 74.) After Robert’s death, Agatha, his widow, had married William de St. Landa, a Lincolnshire kt. A disjmte arose touching her dower, and she was compelled to call her son and heir Joceus de Was- teneys, to be her warrantor, when challenged by Sir Philip de Wasteneys, the opponent. The suit occurs in the assize roll and gives valuable assistance to the pedigree. (13 John 1212 a.d.) In 1212 A.D. Josceus jHirsuing Philip de Was- tineys for two carucates in Carleby, as part of the land for which Philip had received his homage in the preceding plea, lost his cause, because that plea only concerned land in Brune (Assize Rolls, 14 John m. dorso. Staffs. Hist. Coll. vol. 3 p. 158.) Sir Philip had been his cousin’s guardian. A brief entry in the Grresley Chartulary proves that Josceus had a son of the same name. Of Sir William de Wastineys, Philip’s father, by Matthania, who sur_ vived her husband, Ave have only one other short notice, when he was fined two marcs in 1174-5 a.d. (Pipe Rolls). He had perhaps another son, the Anselm de Wasteneys who occurs with Agnes de Wasteneys in an important claim against the owners of ‘‘Little Hay,” and of the Mareschal (or church) manor here. It was tried on January 13, 1212 AD. — (Staffs. Hist, Coll. vol. 3, p. 153) — when Agnes de Wastineys by her attorney sued William 26 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Griffyn and Alice his wife for one-fourtli part of a hide of land in Colton ; they appeared and prayed a view, which was granted. Also, she sued Hugh, son of Matilda, for a quarter of a hide here ; and William, son of Nicholas (Maveysin), for half a hide ( = Little Hay), who both gave the same answer. — Are we to gather from this division that she was trying for the whole of Little Hay, and for half or for a quarter of the whole’’ De Colton (or church) manor ? — The suit was deferred ; at first because Hugh de Okeover and others of the knights sum- moned excused themselves for non-attendance by the difficulty of the journey to Nottingham, and then by the defendants pleading sickness. The result of the assize unfortunately has not come down to us. It suggests the question whetlier Agnes was a De Colton who had married a Wasteneys, and claimed under some old Saxon tenure ? We know that the church manor was certainly divided in an unusual fashion Wide the Colton advowson suit of 1203 A.D.) Two years before, Ralph Bret, being sued by one Roger de Costentin for nine acres of Colton land which Laura, his mother, had held till her death (or, as the P^eet of Fines state, which Harold held) called MattJiania de Colton to warrant to him the land, who, holding it in dower only, sumaioned Philip de Wasteneys, her son, to warrant it in turn to her. Later on, the same year, Walter Bret was sued by IMatthania de Wastinei/s for four acres in Colton, but, not following up tlie charge, she and Geoffrey de Colton, her pledge, were AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAxMILY. 27 adjudged to be amerced. Amongst other trials of this period is a claim for land at Osgarthorp, raised against Sir Philip de Wastineys, and Amphelis, his wife, when the latter was represented by Elias de Colivych^ her attorney ; this is worth notice, as another link connecting the Staffordshire and Leicestershire estates. In 7 King John, Sir Philip himself is plaintiff against John, son of Stephen de Acton, for f of a fee (equal to a whole fee of Moretain) in Acton (Trussell), as formerly (c. 1135), the property of Alice de Acton, his ancestress (Staffs. Hist. Coll, vol. 2, p. 135). The case was referred for trial by the great assize, although it had been tried already, while Sir Philip was in ward, and a minor. Diffi- culties and delays continued, however, to be raised, chiefly through essoins of the knights summoned ; so that at one time we find Geoffrey de Colton, at another William Bagot. appearing for Sir Philip ; and the final issue has been lost to us entirely, for the assize roll of Feb. 9, 1207, remains unfinished. Sir Philip de Wastineys was opposed to King John, but came in and did homage (v. Close rolls 1216-17 A.D.), at Mount Sorrel. The Sheriffs of Lincoln- shire, Leicestershire, and Staffordshire are ordered, therefore, to give him seizin of his lands. A single entry in the assize roll of 1228 a.d., furnishes some insight into the state of public affairs ten years before, and suggests, no doubt, the right explana- tion of Sir Philip’s sudden recovery of his manors, and reconciliation with the King. It comes out incidentally (a), when William de Wastineys sues 28 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON John le Mareschal, for depriving him illegally of certain Colton lands, which Philip, his father, had made over to him, as part of his maintenance. Until General Wrottesleyls research brought this roll to light, it was impossible to account for any “Mareschal” interest in Colton, but the whole is easily understood, when we learn “that Sir Philip had been captured at Mt. Sorrel, and carried prisoner to Nottingham ; where John le Mareschal forced him to sign a surrender of the lands in question.” The “ le Mareschal” interest was cer- tainly paramount at court until the date of the Regent Pembroke's death in 1219 a.d., whilst the royal party had so much the upper hand in that part of Lincolnshire where the de Wastineys property lay, that Sir Philip’s submission is easily understood; like the interpolated tenure of “le Mareschal,” between Hussey and the de Coltons, in the Colton Church Manor, which may be traced to a similar source ; even, if this enforced surrender was not, as is most probable, “ the ransom which opened his prison door.” A. Asske Roll, 12, IL 3 (1228 A.D.), Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 4, 2 ^. 56. Assisa venit recognitura, &c., si Johannes Mares- callus injuste, &c., disseisivit, Willielmum de Wastineis de libro tenemento suo in Colton post ultimum redditum, &c. Et Bertramus baillivus ipsias Johannis venit, et nihil dicit quare assisa remaneat he conceded the assize). Juratores AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 29 dicunt quod predictus Johannes disseisivit pre- dictum Wm. injuste, quia Philippus de Wasteneis dedit terram illam ipsi Wmo. filio suo ad se susten- danduni (for his maintenance), et in plena seisina posuit ita quod cepit homagium et fidelitatem (fealty) de hominihus tempore pacis; et Johannes Mares- callus, tempore pacis et ante gwerram (before the war), disseisivit eum injuste. Postea vero captus fuit idem Philippus apud Mount Sorrel, et im- prisonatus apud Netting eham, tunc tantum fecit versus eum quod dedit ei terram illam, quam prius dederat ipsi Wmo. filio suo, et in prisona fecit ei cartam suam (ut intelligunt). Et ideo Willelmus habeat inde seisinam suam ; et Johannes in miseri- cordia. Dampna (damages) xxiii. marcas, super hoc (afterwards) venit Picardus de Wrottam, Senes- callus Johannis Marescalli, et offert Domino Regi xl. (s) pro habenda jurata xxiv., ad convincendum xii. {i.e, to convict the twelve jurymen of a false judgment.) In 1219 A.D., the King certifies the Sheriffs of Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, and Staffs., that Sir Philip has licensed William de Wasteneys, his son, before the King, to act as his father’s representative in matters relating to their respective counties, while Sir Philip is absent on business in Scotland — until Easter in the following year.* His death must have occurred between 1228 — 1285 a.d.; his wife Amphelis had deceased before 1224, we should * Close rolls (1219 a.d). Salt Library, 30 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON conclude; because her son, Sir William, jmesented in that year to the living* of Osgarthorp — a part of his mo tiler’s estate — while Sir Philip was still alive (v. Nichols). There was a law suit for a bovate of land in Admaston (Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 4, p. 59), (12, HI. 3), when John and Juliana de Hanyard, plead that they hold the said land, through Philip de Wasteneis — being an escheat of a certain robber, William, son of Luke, which Philip had given to Juliana’s former husband, Robert de Admaston — but, beyond this, and his signature, as early as 1200 A.D. to a charter of the Bishop’s about the ‘^Lount’’ estate in Colton, we know nothing further of Sir Philip de Wastineis. Sir William, his son and heir, was returned as holding the Wasteneys Lincolnshire lands of Hugh Wake, who held of Harvey Bagot, and Hervey of the King in capite (1235 a.d). Five years later King Henry granted him the right to hold a weekly market (b) every Friday at his Colton Manor. B. Rex Archiepis &c., salutem, “Sciatis nos concecisse, et presenti carta confirmasse, Wmo de Wasteneys, quod ipse, et heredes sui, in perpetuum habeant unum mercatum, apud manerium suum de Colton, singulis septimanis per diem veneris, nisi predictus mercatus sit ad nocumentum vicinorum mercatorum, quare volumus, &c.” Testibus W. Fbor’ Archiepiscopo, S de Segrave, Wmo de Canti- lu[)e, Johanne filio Galfridi (?) Bertramo de Cryoyl, Johanne de Pless (Plessetis) Bartholomeo Pech, Hi •ogone de Barenton, Tliorna de Albo Monasterio AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 31 (Oswestry) et aliis. Dat’ apud Westmon’ I die niarcii, anno regni xxv. (Record Office, Royal Charters. This must have been of great importance to the village — an era in its history — and a marked instance of the increasing interest which we find the de Wastineys now beginning to show in their Colton property. Sir William gave to John le Bret for homage and service the land called Calvescroft/’ which Geoffrey Armiger held ; also a meadow known as Sollichinge to Firsoulls/’ which Robert, son of Matilda, held in the village of Colton. The same charter book (No. 506 Harl. MSS. B.M., page 71) supplies this extract, the date of which may be conjectured from a deed immediately following on the same page, whereby Hugh, son of Thomas de Colton, of the Church Manor, conveys to John Bret, all that parcel of land which belonged to Gerard, my uncle on the mother’s side, adjoining John Bret’s land.” Gerard has been previously referred to as the father of Alice, in a trial about the right of presentation to Colton Church, circa 1203 AD. ; whilst the sons of Hugh de Colton went to law in 1279 a.d. We may therefore be justi- fied in dating the present deed circa 1240 — 1250 a.d. (v. appendix). Among other Colton trials mentioned in the Assize Rolls, in 1228 a.d. (12 H. 3)^ a colt belong- ing to Wm. GriRyn, and valued at 3s. 6d., had killed Alice, daughter of Peter de Coltun, by a kick. A judgment of misadventure was returned, stating 32 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON that no presentment of Englisliery ” was made; because she lived for some time after the accident. Previously to this, in 1208 a.d., Robert, son of Robert the Clerk, laid claim to eighteen acres of land here as his father’s inheritance, and established his right against Geoffrey de Witfinker. The suit of 1227 ad. (p. 44, vol. 4, S. H. C.), between William son of William plaintiff, and Win. the Smith, Bertram de Calton, Robert de Call on, Roger de Calton, and Peter de Spendure for land in Kalton, I am disposed to think refers not to Caldon-on-the-Moors, but to Colton, esjiecially as the sureties of William son of William (i.c., of Little Hay) are Waryne de Colton and AVil- liam Gryffyn — ^William son of William being the son of the William son of Nicholas Mavesyn of 1212 A.D. The pleas of 1247 a.d. show William de Wasteneys withdrawing his claim against Roes de Verdun and the Prioress of Grace Dieu* of Belton, Leicestershire. * For an account of “(5 race Dieu Priory/’ Nichol’s “Leices- tershire,” vol. 3, p. 651 — 655, may be consulted; or Potter’s “Antiquities of Charnwood.” It was founded by Rose de Verdon, circd 24 H. 3, in honour of St. Mary and the Holy Trinity, for nuns of the Augustine order. Sir William de Was- tineys was one of its benefactors in 1279. The names of Prior- esses known are — Agnes de Gresley, 1242 ; Mary de Strethe, 1243 ; Margaret Zouche ; Elizabeth Shyrbourne, 1483 ; Agnes Litherland, 1539. This last was forced to surrender to Henry VIII., with her fourteen nuns. Situated on the edge of Charn- wood forest, the Priory is now, we are told, only a picturesque ruip. “ The name, like that of ‘ Valle Crucis,’ is both poetical AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 88 In 1242 (?) Sir William and Stephen his brother had witnessed a deed of Agnes de Gresley, then Prioress of the same nunnery. Twenty years later the same Agnes and her nuns agree with William de Wasteneys of Osgodthorp, and other of the free tenants there, for common of pasture in their Belton woods (reserving the park) for their cattle, goats only excepted, at all times; and for pigs between Michaelmas and Martinmas, in exchange for similar rights over the Osgarthorp woods. The Stephen de Wastineys above named is, we conclude, the same found receiving the royal pardon in the ^Patent Polls of o7 H. 8 (1267 a.d ) Know ye that we we have empowered our beloved and faithful Philip Marmyon and William Bagod to receive into our peace Stephen de Wastineys, John de Wormeley, Roger Calke and their companions, who stood out against us in the present disturbance of our kingdom : provided that they give good and sufficient security that they will act faithfully in future. (Given by the King, at Stratford, May 17 th.) We meet again with this same Stephen in a curious return, from the Lincolnshire Hundred rolls, and expressive of humble trust.” Wordsworth thus describes it : — Beneath yon eastern ridge, the craggy bound, Rugged and high of Charnwood’s forest ground, Stand yet, but, stranger, hidden from thy view — The ivied ruins of forlorn ‘ Grace Dieu,’ Erst a religious house, &c., tfec.” * V. Transcripts, Salt Library. 84 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON dated 4 Ed. I. (1276 a. d.) where, under the heading of Inquisitions of the Wapentake of Aveland, it is stated, that Sir William de.Wasteneys liad acted very oppressively as Sheriff, in 55, H. 8 (1271 A.D.) Especially that he had sent Stephen his brother with a band of men to Emma Baggot’s house at Hacunby, and robbed her of property to the value of 100 shillings — not contented with this, they had carried off Simon Baggot, her brother, and 2 men of Hoy land, names unknown ; the Hoyland men being unable to pay ransom, were beheaded in the park at Brune ; whilst they threw Simon into prison, and kept him there 6 years until Emma Bagot paid 20 marcs to Sir Win. de Wastineys for his release — a striking instance of the then disturbed state of the Kingdom, and of the cruelty with which the Sheriffs extorted the money they had to “Item dicunt juratores quod Willelmus de Wastenais, custos pacis, potestate officii sui per procuramentum Nicholai Papillum de Baston, et Simonis de Gotehirst in Hacunby, misit Steph- anum fratrern suum, et Benedictum de Dyesword, et plures alios, quorum nomina ignorantur, ad domum Emme Baggot de Hacunl)y, et de omnibus bonis suis ipsam depredaverunt ad valenciam centum soliduili, et Simonem fratrern dicte Emme, et alios duos homines de Hoyland ’quorum nomina ignorantur’, ceperunt, et Apud Stamford abduxerunt, et illos duos homines de Hoyland sub parco de Brunn decollaverunt, quia non habuerunt aliquid eis dare ; et Simonem fratrern dicte Emme imprisonave- runt, donee dicta Emma solvit pio redemptione dicti Simonis XXti. marcas Willelmo de Wastenays, jam sex annis elapsis.’ [Note, by Genrl. Wrottesley.] AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 35 remit to the Exchequer from defenceless people, whom they ought to have protected. The fact that both in 1242, and 1271 a.d., Stephen is mentioned, with Sir William^ his brother^ makes it very unlikely that they could be Sir Philip’s sons, of whom the eldest represented his faither as early as (1219 a.d.), or, that Sir William, who would then be, at the least, seventy years of age, was the active and tyrannical Sheriff, here represented ; on these grounds we prefer to identify the AYilliam and Stephen in question, with Sir Philip’s grandsons, and the sons of Sir AVilliam (3) de Wastineys, by Margaret his wife. The question in the absence of further evidence must remain somewhat obscure — but, this explanation, which appears the best, would make Sir AVilliam (4) succeed his father William (3), about 1240 a.d. In the Plea roll of 29 Ed. I. (1301 a.d. ), Staffs Hist Coll, vol. 7, p. 78), John de AVasteneys, describes himself as the son of AVilliam, who was the son of a former William, which corroborates this view. Like most men of his time, Sir William de Was- teneys was fond of the chase ; witness the right of free warren* which he obtained from the crown over his Lincolnshire, Staffordshire, and Leicester- shire property, as follows : — ‘^Rex Archiepis, &c., salutem. Sciatis nos con- cecisse et hac carta nostra confirmasse, dilecto et * Free warren was a more limited privilege than free chase ; it gave an exclusive right to certain animals, but did not extend to deer or vert. — [Eyton.] 36 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON fideli nostro Willielmo de Wasteneys, quod ipse, et lieredes sui in p'|jetuuni, liabeant liberani warennani in omnibus dominicis terris suis de Brasingbury et Carleby in coinitatu Lincoln ; et in omnibus domini- cis terris suis de Asgarethorp, in com. Leyc , et in omnibus dominicis terris suis de Colton, in com. Stafford. Datum apud Windsor, Decbr. 14, 48 H. 3 (1264 A.D.). Iliis testibus, Henrico tilio Regis Alem’, nepote nostro, Wmo. de Valence fratre nostro, Hum- frido de Boon [Bolmn] comite Hereford et Essex, Philippo Basset, Hugone Bigod, Jacobo de Aldithe- ley, Rogero de Mortuo-Mari, Willielmo de Wilton, Roberto Aguillon, Radulpho de Bakepuiz, Galfrido de Percy, Willielmo Colet.’’ (Record Office, Royal Charters.) The old Park was probably now enclosed (c. 1264 A.D.). His Colton estate was valued this same year at a full knight’s fee. The proportion of arable land was no doubt con- stantly uudergoing change, as new families were introduced into the place, and iDortions of waste ground gradually taken in and cultivated, with the consent of the Lord of the Manor. Rather more than one-third of the Colton lands were now in the hands of this family ; the other principal land- owners being the Mavesyns of “Little Hay Manor;” the De Col tons and Griffyns, of the Church (or Mareschal) Manor ; the Canons of St. Thomas’ Priory, who owned the Grange and Lount proper- ties ; besides some smaller holdings, like that of the rector of the parish ; and the “town” land, belong- AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 87 ing to the village — corrupted, sometimes, into the Tom field. In 1269 A.D., Sir William gave land here, which is described as lying from ‘‘Mill Acre’’ to “Back Pool,” to AVilliam, son of Roger, the Smith of Colton ; * and received from Geoffrey, son of Warin de Colton, all the said Geoffrey’s rights and pro- perty in the village. The Gresley Chartulary con- tains besides a further reference to a giant of land from Sir William to Gregory, son of Adam, son of Swain, of Colton. This last is the more important, because witnessed by Pagan (or Payne) de Was- teneys. of the Tixal line. Six years before a quit claim of Bromley lands to Richard, son of Hugh Bagot, had been attested by Sir William and Payne de Wasteneys, whose relationship had not hitherto, it seems, been forgotten, (v. Pedigree.) The rolls of P253 a.d. contain an action for damage done by Peter de Nevil, Wm. le Estrange, Robert de Arderne, Wm. de Chawurth, AVilliam de AYasteneys, and others, to Walter de llugford. It a|)pears they had come armed to his manor at Shanketon, broken open the hall locks, on the Sunday before the feast of St. Alargaret, 86. H. 8, and stayed there till the Tuesday following ; taking I pigs, 2 quarters of wheat, 1 of peas, 10 cartloads of hay, besides carrying off a stallion and a mare, 18 oxen, and 7 horses, with a cartload of “ jdenish- ing” (warnestura) to the house of the said Peter at * Gresley Chartulary. The seal bears a lion rampant beneath a chief cheque. 88 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Athelaxton. Pet(n’ denied tlie whole eliar^e ; hut tlie jury gave a verdict against lihn for £15 16s. 4d. (Staffs. Hist. Coll., Vol. 4, p. 124). In 1276, 4 Ed. I., William de Wasteneys was suffering in turn from similar violence at the hands of neigh- bours ; when Alan de Threngstoi:, Kobert his brother, Ralph Paynel, John son of Robert de Threngston, and 16 others named, canie^^vi et armis ” to Osgose thorp f sic ) and (tarried off his goods and chattels to the value of lOOs. The Sheriff was ordered to distrain and produce them. Previously, in 1227 a.d., one William Lapson, with Robert the parson, William the clerk, and Matilda his wife, were fined l)y the King’s judges for' un- justly de 2 )riving Nicholas de Alewy of a croft in Colton. Robert had refused to appear, or to find sureties, because he was a cleric ; the others were convicted by the jurv. The disturbed state of the country during the close of Henry Ill.rd’s reign had fostered a spirit of lawlessness which left its mark even here in an outburst of violent crime. About 55 H. 3 (1270 A.D.) Nicholas, son of AYilliam de Colton, stabbed Adam, son of Hereward, in a brawl at Dutton. The murderer fled for his life to Colton Church, and there took sanctuary, according to the custom of the time, from the first hour till midnight. The villagers of Colton appear to have acted with spirit, and would have guarded the church to secure his arrest, for which they were answerable, but were })revented by Ralph de Rurgh, who, being j[)roni})ted by William le Jovene (Mavesyn), lord of Little AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 89 Hay, connived at tlie murderer’s esca 2 :)e. For tliis evasion Leoniine de Bokenton levied a fine of 109 shillings to the use of Hainon le Strange, then sheriff (a very considerable sum, equivalent to 2,500s. at the })resent day). It appears, by the Avay, that Hamon kept the money, and was afterwards called to account. At the inquest on the l)ody of Adam, the villagers of Colton, Abbots and Bagot’s Bromley did not aj)pear, and were fined in conse- quence. Only the following year (1271 a.d.) the village itself was the scene of a shocking murder, when John, tlie chaplain of Colton, serving very probably the chapel on the site of Bellamore Lodge, killed Christina, Avife of Nicholas de Colton, Avhilst interposing betAveen him and a stranger residing at her house, striking her in the stomach Avith a knife, although the blow Avas really intended for her guest. John fled from justice, and Avas outlaAved, his goods being confiscated.'^ Was this possibly the same John referred to in the Close Boll of 41 H. 8 (1257 A.D.), directing the Sheriff of Staffs, to deliA^er to William, son of William de Colton, seisin of one messuage, two acres of land, and a rod of meadoAv here, which John “ le Prestre” held, who was outlaAved for felony, as it had remained a year and a day in the King’s hands (dated St. Albans, March 7)? It seems not unlikely that lie had returned by some means or other to enter again on his criminal courses. At the iiupiest on the body of * Staffs. Hist. Coll, Vol. 4, p. 211. 40 80ME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Cliristiiia, judgment of murder was given against tlie hundred. Tlie record states tliat ^^no Englesc^liere was presented,” meaning tliat tlie murdered man was not ])roved to l)e of English hirth hv the oaths of two near relations ; consecpiently, by King Canute’s law against the slayer of any Dane or foreigner, the heavy tine of sixty-six mar(*.s was exacted. This law, which AYilliam I. reimposed, led to great abuses, and Avas afterwards repealed in 1441 a.d. Later evidence will show how little securitv for life Colton possessed down to the end of Ed^vard l.st’s reign. To return to civil suits, the patent rolls of 49 H. 4 record a trial of mort d’ ancestor, Avhich Robert, son of Robert Mauveysin, brought against John de Weyville and Margery his Avife, Avith some others, about 4|^ acres in Colton. A deed (gKen in the appendix) proves that Sir John de M'^eyAulle, Kt., had 10 acres here — possibly in addition to these — from the form employed, Ave should gather that the land came by his marriage. The same rolls, A.D. 1250, mention a trial* of novel disseisin brought by Robert, son of John de Admaston, against James de Blithheld, his son John, and others, touching a certain hedge Avhich they had pulled doAvn in Colton — no doubt on the Admaston * “Assize of novel dissiesin.” The Justices of Assize went on circuit for seven years, and no assize or trial was allowed before them which commenced before the last circuit, which was called an “ancient assize,” and that which was on a disseisin (eject- ment) since the last circuit was called an assize, or trial, of “ novel disseisin.” AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 41 and Blitlifield side of the parish — Tlie Sheriff of Staffordshire is therefore ordered to look to it, at the time and place,” &c. It is interesting- to find how local tradition, unconsciously })reserved in the place name, confirms the record, for the Sheriff’s visit on this occasion was unquestionahly the origin of the ^SSherra Cop” lane; as the road, almost dividing the two parishes, is still called. One of the Blitlifield deeds mentions this lane as(‘‘ Semitam Vice Comitis”) the path of the sheriff.” “ Cop ” is, of course, the top of the hill,” over which the road runs. The word occurs again in Stile Cop” (‘^coping,” &c.) The name has been used for nearly six hundred and fifty years, } et even to the educated it has conveyed no definite meaniug, and suggested no research I l^assing over another small suc(;ession claim given in the Patent Rolls of 48 H. 8 (1259 a.d.), which Margery, daughter of Richard le Despencer, and Sibilla her sister, brought against Win. le AVygeford and others, for one messuage and 9 acres here ; a more interesting trial occurs in 1269 a.d. (Pleas), when Robert, son of John de Edmundston (Adnias- ton), was sued by Richard, son of Janies de Blith- field ; for common of pasture in 5 acres in Colton, which had belonged to his father, Janies de Blith- held, because Robert’s denial states that ‘^William de Wasteneys, William de Colton, William Griffyn, and Hugh, son of Thomas,” held the said land in coihmon and in severalty, as the Colton lords (see also a Blitlifield deed of 1257 a.d., given in the 42 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON appendix, for confinuatoiy evidence). Tlic matter was referred to a jury. The Patent Polls of 40 H. ‘1 sliow Nieliolas iMessager,” of Admaston, suing William Ic Maresclial and AAilliam Griff yn for a tenement here on the ehurch manor; whilst in 12o9 A.D. (Patents 44 II. 4) John, son of AYarin (Griffyn) de Colton, AVilliam de Stivinton, and Adam de Prccs had a suit witli AATlliam of AYilliam of Little Hay (?) and others (AI. 6 dorso). The Assize roll contains another trial Avitli one Adam Iwayn,* of Pidgiey, who had erected a Inound and hedge on the Pidgiey side of the Trent, therel)y turning tlie water over the opposite hank, and injuring the freehold of John le Counter and Peter le Bret, of Colton. The Colton people appear to have had the best of it. In the Abstracd of Fines, 1 Ed. 1. (1272 — -4 A.D.) Avice, the AAdfc of AAdlliam Griffin, of Colton, gives a half -mark to have an assize or trial l)efore Palph de Hengham and AValter de Hclyun, the King’s judges. Agnes, the Avidow of Hugh Bonel, suing John Bonel for onc-tliird of a messuage and 8 acres in Colton, as her doAA'er, gains a Amrdict (in 1279-80 A.D. Plea rolls). Tavo years later a more imi^or- tant ([uestion Avas raised, AAdien David, son of Griffin, and Elizabeth Ids AAufe, claimed one-tldrd of the Colton (Church) Alanor from John le AIares(*hal, * Iwen, or Y wen, was the name of a well known Rugeley family. The Patent Rolls, 1271 a.d., mention a suit brought by William cle Handsacre against Robert Ywen, for common of pasture in Rugeley. xVND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 43 as Elizaliotli’s dower. John replied tliat lie held only 19s. rent there, of whieh he offered a third, thereby allowing* her status ; luit they answered that when the writ was issued he held the whole iiiaiior. A jury was to be siminioned to decide it (m. 79 n. Staffs. Hist. Coll., Vol. 6, p. 100). David’s place in the Griffyn pedigree is obscure. The Patent Rolls represent Agatha de Morliay seeking coininon of pasture rights in Colton, on the Little Hay, and Church Manors, against William le Jo veiie (Mavesyn) seigneur, and Henry, son of Hugh de Colton, besides others named in the writ (Staffs. Hist. Coll., Vol 6, p. 145. M. 27 d.). But the pleas of that same year (7 Ed. 1.) show that she withdrew her claim. In 1282 a.d. John de Wasteneys is joint owner of certain lands here with John le Marischal [y. P. M. I.]. In 1278 (6 Ed. 1) the Sheriff had been ordered to take four lawful and discreet knights of Staffs., and go to the King’s Hundred of Pirehill, and there, in full Hundred Court, record the jJea of trespass which was before it, without a King’s writ, which Robert Cradock, of Admaston, and Tho. Alyiior, and Maliel his wife (names frecpiently occurring in the deeds, v. appendix) had brought against William de Reverie, rector of Colton, and William de Uttoxeter, with Juliana his wife, and respecting which they complained a false verdict had been given against them. The record was, therefore, brought into court, but the four lawful men of the Hundred, who had been present at the former trial, 44 801VIE ACCOUNT OF COLTON did not appear. Tlic Sheriff is to distrain, and produce them* (M. 42). Two years later we find Henry, son of Hugh de Colton, and John Griffyn are sued for unjustly depriving William, son of Matilda de Uttoxeter, and Juliana, of common of })asture in 40 acres of wood (l)elonging‘ to the Cliurch Manor), where they used to common with all kinds of cattle after the time of mast. Henry and John stated that the plaintiffs had never enjoyed such a right in the wood, which had been inclosed ever since the time of King John, and they gained the verdictt (m. 49). William de Beverley (Beverlaco), parson of Colton church, reappears (in 1272-4 A.u.), })ursuing William Mavesyn le Jovene, seyneur, John, son of Geoffrey de Colton, and two others named, for 60 marcs owing to him (m. 21, Pleas 12-14, Ed. I.). Lawsuits multiplied incessantly about tliis time. Robert de Pipe brought an action against Adam de Colwich and others for })asture rights liere ; John de Colton (Patents 1279) sued Henry de Colton and others for similar rio*hts. In 1284 a.d. Roo-er de O Aston did the same against John de AVasteneys and others for common of pasture. So, on the other lordship, did Adam de Colwys against John, son of Adam, for tenements in l)oth })aiTshes {i.c., probably on their borders). In 1284 a.d. eJohn, son of William, son of Gilbert de Colton, claimed of John, son of AVilliam de Colton, a messuage and 15|^ acres * ►Staffs. Hist. Coll., Vol. 6, p. 88. t S. H. C., Vol. 6, p. 147. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 45 licro, wlio answered that lie had never been rightly sunnnoned, and offered to wage his law; he is therefore to come now with his compurgators.'* The Gresley (Jhartulary, it will be found, gives John, son of William, son of William, son of Gilbert, insertmcj another William^ which is more correct, ddie Gilbert was, I think, Nicholas Mavesyn’s brother, and the 15|^ acres identical with the original ^ virgate, which Nicholas gave him, as we noticed before, in Colton. The pleas of lG-17 Ed. I. show Matilda, John le Counter’s widow (and possibly the mother of William of Uttoxeter?), suing John Griffyn for a messuage here by writ of entry. The defendant calls to warranty John, son of John le Counter. The following year. Amice, widow of Robert, son of Hugh de Colton, claimed from William, son of Adam de Chetwynde, one-third of a messuage in Colton, as her dower; William came, and prayed a view. She also sued Richard Ragot, and Christiana his wife, for one- third of an acre ; and Roger, son of William at Asshe for one-third of ^ an acre, in the same vill, as dower. They did not appear ; the dower is to be taken into the King’s hands, and they to be summoned. She further claimed of the same Roger 4 acres here ; and of Richard le Cok a messuage as her right (m. 62 d). The case was continued at Hillary term, when she withdrew her writ for the 4 acres, because j)art of it was not her * P. 134, S. H. C., Vol G. 46 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON dower, for John le Harper, lier father, liad ^Hen acres of it to Rog-er, though the residue was given l)y Cecily, lier mother, to Rol)ert and her in frank marriage (m. 5(S d). , It is to Ije noticed tliat she is now called Avice, and not Amice, The Abstract of Fines (24 Ed. I., 1296 a.d.) returns Philippa, the daughter of Richard Falinthe- well, of Colton, as paying \ marc to have an assize. Falinthewell ” is to be identified with the modern ^^Fullwell,” which is variously spelt elsewhere. She had a suit against John Falinthewell of Colton, chaplain, this same year at Wolverhampton. The previous year (28 Ed. I.), Henry, son of Hugh de Colton, gained a verdict, with 40d. damages, against John Griff yn and William de Newton, of Colton, for 2 pieces of land here, one 54 feet by 4 feet, the other 12 feet by 8 feet I A small matter enough for a lawsuit. There was another trial, at the same assizes, which proved Alice, daughter of Henry Griffyn, of Colton, to have been unjustly dissiesed of \ a messuage and 3 acres here, ])y Agnes, her sister, Richard de Rolvyston, William, son of John Griffyn, and John his brother. The Griffyn family (‘.ontinue incessantly involved in actions at law, b(^th as plaintiffs and defendants, at this date. Some of tliese we have alreadv })ointed out, but there are more to follow l)efore the reign of Ed. 1. is ended. 27 Ed. L, William Griffyn, and Eleanor his wife, sued John Griffyn, of Colton, for causing waste and destnu'tion in tlie houses, woods, &c., in Colton, whi(*R they had demised to him for AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 47 liis life. The ease was adjourned for John to ajipear at Trinity term. The next year, AYilliam, son of John Griffyn, John, son of John Griffyn, and Roliert, son of John Griffyn, were accused of unjustly depriving John, son of William, son of Gilbert, of Colton, of a messuage, 10 acres of land, and an acre of meadow here. William, son of John Griffyn, replied as tenant that he had entered on the tenements by one Margaret Stonynges, and that the said William (lc., John, son of William?) had never been seised of them. The jury say that Margaret Stonynges was formerly wife of William Gilbert, the father of the complainant, and had left issue the said John. She had then married one William Skill, whom she deserted after a while, and gave the tenements by a deed to William, son of John Griffyn, he undertaking to find her for her life in food and clothing ; and she had lived years after signing that deed, and on her death John, son of William Gilbert, entered on the tenements for one day, Avhen William, son of John Griffyn, and tlie others ejected him.* Jolm, son of William, afterwards withdrew his plea, but upon a second suit the verdict was in his favour ; he was, therefore, to re-enter, and have 20s. damages. [N.B. — The jury say one Robert Mavesyn had given it to William, son of Gilbert. If so, it was natural enough, seeing Gilbert was the brother of Nicholas Mavesyn.] 29 Ed. I. There was a trial to decide * S. H. Coll, Vol. 7, p. 70, 48 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON wlietlior Jolin le Counter, William lo Counter (murdered), and Margaret, widow of John, son of Geoffrey de Colton, had deprived Margaret, widow of John, son of Hugh, of piece of land here, 60 feet long by 6 feet wide. William did not appear, and the Sheriff said he was dead. John and iMargaret denied any injury to the plaintiff, and a jury found in their favour.* At the same assize (29 Ed. I.)t the Sheriff had been ordered to return into this court the appeal of John le Counter, of Colton, against Ralph Griff yn and Robert his brother, for the death of William le Counter, his Ijrother, and to bid John le Counter prosecute his appeal in person, since it could not be settled in a lesser court than before the King or his justices itinerant; but the said John, being solemnly (‘.ailed on the first, second, third and fourth days did not appear. He is therefore to l)e arrested, with his sureties for the prosecution John “of the Knoll” (de Monte) (where ?) of Colton, and Nicholas Fox, of Colton : the appeal is to proceed at tlie King’s suit : and the defendants, who also failed to appear, are to be arrested and produced. 62 Ed. I. (1604 A.D.) Richard, son of Henry the chaplain, recovei’s a rent of 10s. in Colton from AWlliam Griff yn and Alienor his wife, l)esides 22s. damages. In the Feet of Fines (29 Ed. 1.) is a final concord made at York in the ([uinzaine of 8t. Hilary (Jan^- 27, 1600), l)etween * P. ^5, Vol. 7, S. H. C. t Stafis. Hist. Coll., Vol. 7, p, 93, AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 49 William le Fevre (the Smith), of) Colton, by Robert de Hampton, / Complainant, his attorney, and ^ William, son of William de Woles- \ TON, by Robert de Lichfield, his ( Deforciant, attorney ) Concerning one messuage, 16 acres of land, and 4 acres of meadow, in Colton, which complainant acknowledged to belong to deforciant, and for this acknowledgment received from the deforciant the said j^remises to hold of him for the life of the com- plainant, rendering a nominal rent of one rose yearly, and performing to the chief lord of the fee the services appertaining ; and, after the decease of the comjilainant, the said premises were to remain to William, son of the complainant, and to Felice, daughter of William de Woleston. 28 Ed. 1. Thomas, son of Alianor, of Colton, and Mabel his wife, not appearing to prosecute their suit against Robert, son of Henry de Colton, and others, it was dismissed ; and their sureties, Robert de Hampton and John de Hampton, were in misericordia.’’ The Pleas of 1807 (85 Ed. 1)* show Alice, widow of John Griff yn, of Colton, pursuing Ri(Rard de Rishton for one- third of a messuage and 8 acres, in Colton ; and Julia de Barton, of Colton, for one- third of a messuage ; and Robert Wymer for one-third of a messuage ; and William, son of John Griff yn, for one- third of a messuage, 60 acres S. H. C., Vol. 7, p. 182. 50 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON of wood, 20 acres of meadow, and 40 acres of moor, ill ( ^)ltoii ; wliicli she claimed as dower. They did not appear, and the lands were in the Kind’s hands. Alice is to have possession (m. 222, Pleas). In 27, Ed. 1, Robert de Colton was one of 4 kniglits sum- moned in a Blithfield suit* (44 Ed. 1 ). The Sheriff had lieen ordered to distrain Juliana, the widow of Henry de Colton, and produce her, to state what right she (‘laimed in 48 acres of land, 5 of meadow, 20 of wood, 4s. 4d. of rent, and the third part of a messuage and mill in Colton, Newlond, and Blithe- buiy ; which Robert, Henry de Colton’s son, had granted to William, son of John le Mareschal, by a fine. She did not appear, and her goods only re- turned a nominal sum. The Sheriff is to jirodiice her at the quindene of Easter (m. 72). The mill must have been that at Hamley. Reverting to the Wasteneys family, besides John, Sir William had by his wife Constance a son, Reginald, mentioned in 1408 a.d. and again in 1422 and 1444, as the father of William Wasteneys. f We have very little doubt that the well-known Sir Edmond de Wasteneys, wlio founded the Notting- hamshire Ijranch of the family, was another of Sir William’s sons. * Staffs. Hist. Coll., Vol. 7, p. 54. t Patent Rolls 14 Ed. 2. Trial brought by Henry de Colton against Wiliam son of Reginald de Wasteneys and others, for tenements in Colton. Willemus fil Reginald! de Wasteneys de Colton, Henrico Hugin, Ac, (5 Ed. 3, Gresley CharLulary), AND OF TTTE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 51 In 1283 A.D. (11 Ed. 1) the P.M. Inquisition speaks of Jolin le Marisehal liolding a wood in Colton jointly AYitli Jolin de Wasteneys ; and 1289 A.D., there was an assize to decide if William de Wasteneys, father of John, was seised as of fee, when he died, in seven virgates of land at Burton- sur-le-Wauz, which Ralph de Turvile holds. Hugh le Despenser was called to warranty at Leicester. The Ridware Chartulary shows that Sir John was at Colton in 1282 and 1284 a.d., Ijy his signature attesting deeds. In 1290 he was one of twelve knights chosen for an Elford suit, and was again acting similarly on a Pencrich trial three years later. (Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 6, p. 219.) The same year he is named elector of the “ Pirehill Hundred ” jury — and in 1295 a.d. was a juror for the Chilinton Manor cause. Evidently he must have often visited his Colton property. Sir John de Wastineys married Isabella Hay, of Acton, in Yorkshire ; like his grandfather, he too claimed free warren over the Colton lands in 1293 a.d., and together with Edmond do Wasteneys, witnessed a deed between John de Dreggeton and Adam the Smith of Colton.* In 1293, also, John de Wastineys was returned as holding a quarter of a fee at Osgar thorp (of Richard de Harecourt, deceased), valued at 100s. rental, f and with another John de Wastineys, acted as a juror in a plea concerning * Gresley Chartulary. t Escheat 26 Ed. 1, No. 46, Leicest, U. OF .OL m. 52 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Trentliaiii Manor. Six years later the Patent Rolls contain an assize of novel disseisin between William ^M^e Younge Louerd ” of Colton of Little- Hay” Manor), and Sir John, touching tenements here. The same year finds William, the Smith of Colton, paying a half-marc for a writ ^^ad termi- num.* Cn several occasions Sir John de Wastineys served as one of the jurors for the Cannock Chase boun- daries, and those of Kinver Forest (v. S. H. Coll., &c.), (v. Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 7, jd. 54), an office which was reserved for the principal men of the neighbourhood. He gave to Richard de Araz land in Threngeston ; f and, with his wife Isabella, re- ceived grants from Alan, son of William de Thren- geston, and from one Gilbert Pate, of Osgarthorp.J In 1301 A.D. (v. Plea Rolls), John de AYastineys sued John Griff yn to permit him to have common of pasture in Colton, of which Win. Griffyn had unjustly deprived John de Wastineys his grand- father, whose heir he is : and he stated that AAhn. de Wastineys was seised of common of pasture in 60 acres of wood in the auII of Colton, with all manner of cattle for the whole year, exce23t at time of pannage (oc., from the feast of St. Michael to that of St. Martin) as belonging to his freehold in Colton ; and from William the right descended to * Salt. Library deeds, t Gresley Chartulary. I Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 7, p. 78, AND OF THE DE AVASTENEy’s FAMILY. 53 one William, as son and heir, and from this William to John, who now sued, as son and heir. John GidfPyn prayed a view, and the case was adjourned to the quindene of Mclnnas.* Sir John de Wasteneys was now returned by tlie Slieriff of Lincoln as hold- ing land in caj^ite, and otherwise, worth £40 a year j* — equivalent to two knight’s fees — and was there- fore summoned to serve against the Scotch ; the muster being appointed at Carlisle. He was like- wise summoned for the county of Northampton. In further proof that he held the Leicestershire estate, we find (1304 a.d.) at York, Sir John de Wastineys, lord of Brassingburg, suing several people of Tonge and Bredon for feeding their swine on the acorns of his wood at Osgathorpe, Avhich was called “ Wastenays ” wood. They replied by claiming a right of common there — but the verdict is not gLmn us. (Abbreviatio Placitorum 32 Ed. 1.) The Scotch rolls of military service, 26-27 Ed. 1, state that he had letters of protection while serAung in the retinue of Gilbert de Umfraville, Earl of Anegos ; Iioav close their intimacy was, we gather from a trial Sir John brought, when serving as executor for Gilbert de Umfraville, against the late Gilbert’s steward, for his accounts of lands in Hameldon and Market Overton (34 Ed. 1). Four years previously the Sheriff had been ordered to levy a fine of 40s. from the lands and chattels of John de Wasteneys, * Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 7, p. 78. t Palgrave’s Parliamentary Writs. 54 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON and Isabella his wife, and two others named, part of a sum of 40 marcs damages allowed to William de Chaddewortli for an unjust disseisin on their part. (Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 7, p. 99). The arms of his wife’s family are said to be, or, on a chief gules two mullets argent.” Besides two daughters,* Constance, whose name occurs in a deed dated 25 Ed. 4, and Elizabeth, wife of Sir John Cornwall, Kt., Sir John left tliree sons, (1) Sir William, married to Joan Bret, daughter of Sir John Bret, of Norfolk, and widow of Adam de Cailley. (2) Sir Philip, t who by Williehna his wife was father of Thomas de WastineysJ (1442 and 1475 a.d.\ and (4) John, rector of Cranwicke in Norfolk, from 1321 to 1349 A.i). — a living which formed part of the * Gresley Charbulary. Constancia, filia Dfii Johannis de Gastirieys, militis, atornavi Wra. Clerke ad delib’ seysinam Johanni de Gresley militi, et Johanne uxori ejus in messuag’ in Brassingbury, quod habuerunt ex dono meo. 25 Ed. 3. t Philippus de Gasteneys filius quondam Dili Johannis de G., militis, (fee. 2 Ed. 3 (Gresley Chartulary). Gresley Chartulary, 1324 a.d. Wm. de Gastineys miles dominus de Brassingbury, Phillippo de Gastineys fratri meo, et Willielmie uxori ejus ununi crofturn in Acton. This Acton is not to be confounded with Acton Trussed in Staffs. I Thomas, sou of the late Philip de Gasteneys, Kt., with Williehna his mother, widow of Philip his father, gives to Helen, who was the wife of Robert Rede, of Carleby, and to her daughter Joanna and their heirs, (fee. ; done at Carleby (Gresley Chartulary) a.d. 1342. (1375 A.D.) Thomas de Gasteneys makes over to Sir John Gresley, and his wife Joanna, all his rights in Seton and Spaldingmore. AND OF THl^ DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 55 dowry of Joan, his eldest brother’s wife — in right of her former husband, Sir Adam de Caillev.* Repeated proof of the unsettled ” condition of the country appears in the Stafford Assize Roll of 21 Ed. 1. — William CIriffyn, of Colton, had escaped from custody, and Jed. He was sus})ected of many robberies, and was to lie outlawed. His chattels were worth 47s., and he held land of which the year and waste was valued at 26s., for which the Sheriff answers. t John de Wasteneys afterwards apjieared and made fine for the year and waste for 26s. 4d. (m. 26.) Thomas, son of Reyner de Colton, disput- ing with William, son of William, the smith, of Colton, outside the gate of John le AVasteneys, in the vill of Colton (/A., at Colton Hall), a quarrel arose ; and Thomas struck William with a knife on the head, and killed him ; he then fled immediately, and is to be outlawed. Being a clerk, it is added, he was not in a tything (in. 26), therefore others were not answerable to produce him.J William de Cranwick is spelt variously “ Crannoris,” “ Cranehouse,” “ Cranwes,” and “Cranwys.” The name is taken from the river “ Wissey.” Thomas de Cailley had settled the manor of Cranwick on Michael de Cailley for life, and the third part in reversion after the death of Joan, then (9 Ed. 2) wife of Sir William de Wasteneys, and widow of Adam de Cailley. Bloomfield’s “ Norfolk,” V. 6, p. 143. In 1313 Simon de Cayley was presented to the livdng of Denver, in Norfolk, by Sir William de Wasteneys, + Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 6, p. 272. I For a fuller explanation of this, see note on “View of Frank, pledge.” (temp. Civil War). 56 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Erdington, of Colton, was likewise to be outlawed for a burglary in the house of Nicholas, son of Richard de Colton. The gaol delivery roll of 64 Ed. 1, shows how Henry at Asch, had feloniously killed Adam, son of John, son of Walter de Colton, in Colton. That (as before stated) William le Countour* had been murdered in Colton by Ralph Griffyn and Rol)ert his brother. Besides the death of John Bonel, in Colton, at the hands of William Fox. Thus, between 1270 a.d. and 1606 a.d., no less than six murders had been committed, five in the village itself, besides many robberies (!) — an aj^palling catalogue. A Royal pardon, dated Kemeseye, May 1, 1600 a.d., mentions further violence — The king having ascertained, by the inquisition which the Sheriff and Coroners of Staffordshire caused to be made, that John, son of William le Parker, of Colton, arraigned for the death of Walter de Walshe, of Colton, slew the said Walter in self-defence, and not through malice prepense, pardons him for the said death. Sir William, the next representative of the Was- teneys family, had certainly succeeded his father in 1612 A.D. ; because AVilliam de Milton, of Oundel, then called him to warranty for a messuage and carucate of land in Oundel, claimed by Henry de Tychmersh in right of his wife Joan. Two years * Wm. le Counter = the Arithmetician? “There is no Countere nor Clerk Con him reken alle.” (m.s. Cott. Calig. A. 2, f. 110.) AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 57 later (v. Pleas, 9 Ed. 2) William Griffyn sued him for permission to grind his ‘^demesne” corn ^^quit of multure ” at the said William de Wasteney’s mill in Colton, as he used formerly to do (m. 1 14).* Sir William had inherited estates and influence in flve different counties, Lincolnshire, Staffs., Leicester- shire, Northants, and Yorkshire; and was personally of an active, enterprising character. We find him serving in Scotland, under Edward L, during his father’s lifetime. In 1295 a.d., he had been sum- moned to bear arms against the Welsh (owing to the rising Madoc headed when Caernarvon was taken), but while John de Wasteneys was one of the follow- ing of John Wake, William served in the retinue of Robert de Tateshall, another Lincolnshire magnate, t Later on, the Scotch roll of 1310 a.d. places him in that of John de Crumbewell. That he was not unknown at Ed. 11. ’s court, we should judge from the notice in the ‘‘Collectanea TopogTaphica,”J of the knights who tilted at the great Stepney Tournament of 1309 A.D., where he sided with the Earl of Lan- caster’s party. Among the knights returned to attend at Westminster on May 30th, 1324 a.d., when Robert Bruce had invaded England, and laid waste the country up to the gates of York, we find both * Staffs. Hist. Coll , vol 9, p. 59. t Vide Staffs. Hist. Col., vol. 8. Military service of Staffs, tenants. I Coll. Topograph., p. 69, where his arms are thus described : “ Sa,” a lion ramp., arg. langued and collared gules.’^ 58 SOME ACCOUNT OF CoLTON William Wastencys and Anselm ^raresclial enrolled for their Colton Manors. Proof may be seen in the Parliamentary writs of 1332* a.d., that he was sum- moiled to assist the Sheriff of Lincolnshire in keep- ing the peace ; and to appear at Purton-on-Trent, lirepared to march on the king’s service. The following year he was ordered to raise two thousand soldiers in the county of Lincoln; probably the statement made in the memorandums of Purg- hersh (or Purwash), Pishop of Lincoln, that, when Charles the Fair, King of France, was threatening an invasion of England in 1324 a.d.. Sir Robert de Hercy and Sir William de Wasteneys were commis- sioned to raise the array in the parts of Lindsey (Lincolnshire), for the jirotection of those coasts, is but a further reference to the charge of the year preceding, entered here because the usual oaths were to be administered to them by Pishop Purghersh. Sir William was present at the Lincoln election in 1334, and was himself chosen to attend the Parlia- ment at Westminster. In 1325 he took service under Thomas, Lord Wake of Lydell,t a nobleman nearly allied to the royal family by his marriage with Planch Plantagenet, daughter of Henry, Earl of Lancaster. Lord AYake sent him across the seas in command of a body of troops, but the climate of Gascony brought on a disease of which he died very * Palgrave’s Parliamentary Writs. f Thomas Lord Wake, of Lydell, was uncle to Joan Plantagenet, the fair maid of Kent, wife of the Black Prince. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 59 suddenly, not long after his return to England, leaving behind him a numerous family of three sons and eight daughters, vide the deed quoted in the appendix from the Gresley Chartulary. The arms of Joan Bret, his wife, are argent a bend gules billetee of the field.” Walter Clietwynd’s ni.s. col- lections have })reserved the following grant, dated 1308, A.i)., I, Sir William de Gastineys, Kt., have given to Beginald de Gastineys, my uncle, all my land in Caldwall, within the vill of Colton and with- out it.” This supplies a link in the pedigree. In 1319 A.D., Sir William granted a virgate of land here to John Torpennan (Patents, 12 Ed. 2). In 1311 A.D., he attested a deed of Anselm le Mareschal’s, and must have been, therefore, residing at Colton. About the same time Elias de Gresley made over to - Sir William a considerable addition to his Osgarthorp estate. Two years after, he was sued by Robert de Hampton, for Colton tenements,* and in 1320 A.u., conveyed to Roliert de Bromley, clerk, certain lands here at “ Wildurdeley ” — the present Wilderly.f The Gresley Chartulary shows Sir William confirm- ing to Walkelin, brother of William the chaplain, of Osgarthor]), the land which he had previously held under Sir John de Wasteneys ; and there are a few other deeds besides, relating to his Lincolnshire and Yorkshire properties, with which we are not now so immediately concerned as with the following fines * Patent Rolls, 12 Ed. 2. t On the map, Nos. 719, 721, 722, 723, 724. 60 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON and pleas which affect Colton interests al>oiit this time. Feet of Fines. Final concord made for entail in three weeks of Faster, 9 Ed. 2 (1316), between John Tok de Annesley . . Complainant and William GtRyffen and Alianoka, his ) o • ^ ’ [ Deforciants wife .^ . . . . ) Concerning the eighth part of the manor of Colton, save one bovate, and one acre of land, and three acres of moor in that manor, whereupon Avas plea, etc. Deforciants acknowledged the said eighth part to belong to complainant as the gift of deforciants, and for this acknowledgment, the complainant granted to them the said eighth part, to hold to deforciants of the chief lords of the fee by the services appertaining, for the lives of deforciants. Remainder* (1st) to John, son of John de Honetoft, and Erniatrude, daughter of Master Robert de Bromleye, and the heirs of her body; (2ndly) to Robert, son to William de Norton, and the heirs of his body ; (3rdly) to Margery, daughter of the said Master Robert, and the heirs of her body ; and in default the premises shall remain to Master Robert de Bromley. Feet of Fines. Final concord made at Westminster in the octave * We know elsewhere that Win. Griffyn and Alianora had no issue, while in 1359 a.d. we again meet with this entail. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 61 of St. John the Baptist, 11 Ed. 2 (July 1st, 1318 A.D.) between Robert de Hampton and Alice,' his wife, bv Robert de Bou- WOOD, his Attorney . . . Complainants. and Master Robert de Bromleye,'! clerk, and Felice,* his wife. I Concerning the half of a virgate of land in Colton, whereof was ])lea, etc. Deforciants acknowledged the said land to belong to Robert de Hampton, and they remised and quit-claimed the same to com- plainants for ever, and for this acknowledgment received from them the sum of ten marks. In 1321 A.D., R. de Hanbury, R. Hillary, and R. de Aston were appointed to take an assize of novel disseisin, which Henry de Colton had arraigned against William, son of Reginald de Wasteneys, and others for tenements here. The Patent Rolls of 1334 notice a similar suit brought by Richard Colet and his wife Sibilla against William Baretand otliers for property in Colton. The Pleas of 11 Ed. 2 show William Gritfyn, of Colton, suing Roger Hobet, of Colton, for 2^ acres here; and Roger and William his brother, jointly, for another single acre. In 1319 a.d., William Griff yn is found suing Robert Griff yn for a messuage in Colton ; and Henry Cohnon for 8 acres, besides * Is not this the land named in a former tinel and Felicia the daughter of William, son of William de Wolestone ? Half virgate would about correspond to 16 acres. 62 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON one of meadow, in tlie same vill ; in which they had no entry except by a demise Avhich William Griff yn, his great grandfather, whose heir he is, had made to Roger Bonel, for a term which had expired ; and he stated that the said William, his great grandfather, was seised of the tenements in demesne, as of fee, in the time of King Henry III., the king’s grand- father, and from William the right descended to William, his son and heir ; and from the said William to John, as his son and heir ; and from John to William the plaintiff, as son and heir. Henry called to warranty Robert Griff yn, who is to be called for the quindene of Hillary. Robert stated that the messuage claimed was, at one time, in the seisin of one Roger de Huctesdon (Hixon); Avhom William Griffyn had called Roger Bonel ; and the said William Griffyn had quit-claimed to the said Roger, and his heirs, all right to it — and he produced the deed. William Griffyn denied that his ancestor had executed that deed, and appealed to a jury, which is to Ije summoned. Meanwhile the king’s clerk is to retain the deed (m. 117. Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 9, p. 73). This is a valuable confirmation of the Griffyn pedigree. The same year, 1319 a.d., William Gerard de Styvington, and Dionysia his wife, sued Adam le Smith, of Colton, for 4 acres here, which they claimed to hold for the life of Dionysia, by a demise which Henry, son of Hugh de Colton, made to the said Dionysia and John de Morhay, her first husband, and in which Adam le Smith had no entry, except by Thomas le Ridere, of AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 63 Ru^eley, to wliom John cle Morhay had demised it, and to whicli, during his lifetime, she could not object. Adam prayed a view (m. 434). The Pleas of 9 Ed. 2, show John, son of William Gilbert, of Colton, stated to be of full age, suing Richard le Holehurst, and Alice his wife, for a messuage, lb acres of land, and one acre of meadow, in Colton. They did not appear, etc. [This, apparently, is tlie third mention of that half-virgate granted to Gilbert deMavesynby his brother Nicholas.] In 18 Ed. 2 (1325 A.D.), Henry, son of Roliert, son of Hugli de Colton, sued William de Chetwyndefor a messuage, 4 acres of land, and two acres of waste here ; and Richard Lyne, and Margaret Ids wife, for 7 acres of land; and William, son of Adam le Smith for 4 acres ; and Nicolaa, daughter of Hugli le Bole, of Colton, for 10 acres; and William Maynard for one acre; and William, son of Ralph del Newlond, for one acre ; and Geoffrey at Asche for one acre ; and Stephen, son of William Eddesone, for 1^ acres in Colton, which he claimed as his right and inherit- ance. None of the defendants ap})eared. The whole 31|^ a(*res are to be taken into the king’s hands, and they summoned for the octaves of St. Martin (m. 186, d.) We gather from the Pleas of 13 Ed. 2 (1320 A.D.), that Henry le Rowe, of Blithbury, William, son of Ralph of the Newlands, Reginald le Wasteneys of Colton, Robert, son of John, son of Walter de Colton, and Henry de Caldwall, were attached at the suit of Thomas le Rowe, of Blithbury, for insulting, wounding, and ill-treating him at 64 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Colton, on the Friday before St. James’s Day (11 Ed. 2), and for reaping forcibly his corn and siligin (a kind of wheat), and carrying it away, to the value of 60s., for which he claimed 10 marks damages. They denied the trespass and injury, appealing to a jury. Thus far we have reserved all notice of disputes affecting Anselm le Mareschal’s Colton interests, which will be more easily under- stood if they are taken collectively. After the account of the direct male line of de Wasteneys is comjdeted. The great length of Edward III.’s reign makes arrangement the more difficult. It will, per- haps, be most convenient to begin with pleas affecting Colton generally, passing on to Sir Thomas de Was- teneys, and the suits involving his interests, especially those in Colton, before we collect what is known about Anselm le Mareschal and his pre- decessors. The first trial was that of 4 Ed .8 (1331 a.d.)* when Henry de Colton sued William Attewode, parson of the church of the blessed Mary the Virgin, in Colton, for an acre of land here : the tenements liad already been taken into the King’s hands, by William’s default. Henry is therefore to recover seisin (m. 356). In 1334 a.d., AVilliam Griffyn indicted William, son of Thomas de Kerdyf (Cardiff) chaplain, Robert, John, Robert (sic) and Richard, his brothers, for beating and injuring him at L’olton (6 Ed. 31, on the Thursday after the Conception, * Staffs, Hist. Coll,, vol. 11, p. 18, DESCENT OF THE DE COTTONS, JOINT OWNERS OF THE “CHURCH” MANOR (OTHERWISE “MARESCHALS” MANOR). ^ o a < CO O f-i 'o ir' O ^ a ^ S r • O) 03 0) O ^ a s ^ r^i — §op5 —-a ^ ^ 'o ^ . -s ^— § CD _ .a C (x> ^ II — o ^ Qo 6 o a 2 o o •a ci CO > © O) - a o Pm 4J w 'S a ^5 -I ° I I Robert de C. 1322-1331 A.D. (Eidware Chartulary, c. 1240.) Signs with Hugh his father, v. p. 294-5, vol. 16, Staffs. Hist. Coll. It is possible that Sir Henry de Colton may have been the son of Hugh (2), not Hugh (1), but as Hugh (1) was under age in 1203 we prefer the latter — assuming that Hugh (2) was longlived like (K.H. 3) his contemporary. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 65 besides taking his goods and chattels, linen, woollen clothes and money, to the value of £100. They deny the trespass and injury, and appeal to a jury (in. 107). Isabella, widow of AVilliam de Chetwynd, sues Win. Griffyn, at York, (10 and 11 Ed. 8), amongst other and larger interests elsewhere, for l^rd of 4 acres here, Avhich she recovered. The following year Malcolm de Wasteneys calls upon John Bagot to acquit him of the service which Thomas de Wasteneys exacted for the freehold he held of the said John in Colton (13 Ed. 3)* There was a trial at Lichfield, whether Adam de Chetewynd, and others, had unjustly deprived Robert, son of John, son of Nicholas le Messager, of a messuage, and 40 acres of land, in Colton and Blithfield ; the question turned on the authenticity of a deed of gift from Henry, son of John de Messager, the brother of the said Robert. It was to be decided at Stafford ; Richard, lord of Blithfield, William Griffyn of Colton, Robert de Hampton, Win. Cradok of Admaston, and John Andrew of Lee, being the witnesses summoned to appear (m. 2).t In 14 Ed. III., John de Wyvereston, and Eva his wife, sued Adam son of Adam de Chetewynde, and William Wymar, for the above-named 4^ acres, and 1^ acres of meadow here, as Eva’s right, and they recovered seisin (m. 347). 16 Ed. 3, John de Wy version and Eva regained 2 acres of meadow, in * Stafifs. Hist. Coll., vol. 11, p. 98. t Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 11, p. 105. 00 80 ME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Colton, from William dc Colton and Margaret his wife, also by default. The next year, Emma, widow of Kiehard Ilervey, sues John Hervey of Colton, for ^rd of a messuage, 20 acres of land, and 2 acres of meadow here, Avhich she claimed as dower. Failing' John’s a})pearance, the land is to he taken into the King’s hands. 17 Ed. 8,* Simon de Kuggeleye lu'ought an acti(3n against John, son of Juliana of Colton, William le Counter, and John Stykkebukke of Colton, for fishing vi etarniis” in his several fisheries at Rugeleye, and taking fish to the value of 100s. ; they are to he arrested and produced. The following year the case is continued Avith fuller details ; hut the fish, pike, hream, perch, roach, tench, and eels, are said to have been taken from his fishpond at Rugeleye ; they denied it, a])})ealiiig to a jury. A postscript states that the process Avas continued till 19 Ed. 8, AAdien it Avas transferred hy Avrit of “nisi prius” to he held at Stafford before Roger Hillary, Avith AAdioni Avas associated Richard de la Pole ; Avhen the jury l)rought in both defendants guilty of the trespass, and they gave damages for 100s. This case illus- trates the laAv’s delay, as also the value of steAA^ponds, in those days. The WiAmrston (Wolston) interest conies again into court, 22 Ed. 8, Avhen EA^a,t AvidoAV of John de Wivereston, and Joan her sister, Avith Roger de Eeiiton, chaplain, Avere charged Avith * Staffs. Hist, Coll., vol. 12, pp. 22, 30. t Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 12. p. 91. AND OF TUF DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. in dopriviiig* Itichard, son of Tlioiiias do Blytlideld, of a inossiiago, 60 acres of laud, and one of meadow, in Adinaston, Colton, Newton and Blitldield (in. 100) ; Eva answered as tenant, but said there were only 20 acres. A trial of 24 Ed. HI. (1851 a.d.), valuable as fixing the death of Thomas de Wastineys, Avas liroiight by John Stykkebnk of Colton, and Juliana, d. of Margery, d. of Robert, son of Hugh de Colton, against Joan, widow of Thomas Gastineys, for a messuage, and 2 acres of land here ; and they sued Ral})h Bagot for 4^ acres here ; and Alianor, d. of Richard Lyne, for 8 acres ; and Dionysia Maynard for 1^ acres ; and William ^Ge Blessed’' for 2 acres ; and William Godwyn, chaplain, for 1 acre ; and Geoffrey Cohnon for 2 acres of meadow ; and Thomas Dynnnok, and Margery his wife, for 2 acres ; and Nicholas Bote for 1 acre ; and John de Bromley for 8 acres of land, and 1 of meadow ; and John, son of William le Smyth of Colton, for 2^ acres ; and John Hobet for an acre; and John, son of John le Baxtere, for an acre ; and John Griff yn for an acre of land, and 1 of meadow ; and John, son of Adam Atte Asche, for an acre ; and John, son of Henry le Tumour, for an acre, in the same vill. After various delays, and excuses about the difficulty of the journey, the defendants finally made defaults, and Avere amerced, the plaintiffs recovering possession. The case is the more auiIu- able for shoAving Iioav many scattered strips of land Avent to form a simple virgate, the Avhole amount being but 81^ acres. SOIMF. ACCOUNT OF CoLTON Colton Mill, on the Trent, was the subject of a plea which John de Gresleye, Kt., and Joan his wife, broug'ht against Henry de llu^^eleye in 2o Ed. HI., because the servic^e due for it had not been paid during the two past years. The claim, we see, is in right of his wife, who was the widow of Sir Thomas de Wastineys. On this subject there will be more to be said. 82 Ed. III. Q859 a.d.), the same Sir John Gresleye and Joan sued Richard, son of Robert de Colton, chaplain, for a messuage here, as Joan’s right, and on the same grounds ^G^uare cessavit per biennium.’^ The Trinity term Plea Roll shows that the King’s writ was sent to the justices, on the complaint of John de Holt, son of jMargery, daughter and heir of Ermentrude, Avho was daughter of Master Robert de Bromleye, for a return into court of the transcript of the tine levied 9 Ed. II. (v. supra) between John Tok of Annes- leye, and Win. Griffyn and Alianora his wife, about one-eighth of Colton (Church) Manor, by which it had been entailed on William and x^lianor for their lives ; with remainder to John, son of John de Honetoft, and Ermentrude, daughter of Magister Robert de Bromleye, and Ermentrude’s issue ; fail- ing them, then to Robert, son of William Norton, and his issue ; failing such to Margery, daughter of Robt. de Bromleye, and her issue ; and failing them to Robert de Bromleye and his heirs — and John de Holt stated that William and Alianora, and John, son of John de Honetoft, and Ermentrude, together with Margery her daughter and heir, were all dead ; AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 09 and that William le Clerk of Colton had entered on 14 acres of land ; and one John Griff yn of Colton into 2 acres, which were parcels of the said eighth |)art of the manor, and held them contrary to the tenor of the fine. They are to come and show cause why John de Holt, son of Margery, the kinsman and heir of Ermentrude, should not have possession of them (m. 46) (Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 12, p. 163.) d’hey came and declared that the part held by them was no ])ortion of the ^th which fell under the fine of 9 Ed. II. (a jury was to be summoned). Tlie next year there occurs a trial whether John Wymer, of Colton, had unjustly taken from Katrine, wife of Thomas Garlaund, 6 acres in Colton ; a verdict was given for Thomas and Katrine. Michaelmas term this same year, John Wymer, of Colton, was charged by William de Type, for forcibly taking at Colton, 4 cows and 2 oxen, worth 50s., belonging to him ; John did not come into court, nor again in 34 Ed. HI. Two years after, William de Hanley e, lately parson of Colton, brings a plea against William le Clerk, of Colton, to render him a reasonable account for the time when he was his bailiff in Colton ; Win. le Clerk did not appear. 40 Ed. III., one Eoger Walteres, and Joan his wife, sought to recover from Adam Prentys, of Ruggeleye, |-rd of a messuage, a carucate of land, and 40d. of rent in Colton, as Joan’s dower of the grant of Thomas de Stalbrook, her former husband. Adam prayed a view (M. 400 d). In 45 Ed. III., this claim was repeated, with a similar result. Brought a third 70 80ME ACCOUNT OF COLTON time into court, Adam pleaded tliat tlie tenement con- tained only a nies>sua^e, 20 acres of land, and 4 of meadow, and tliat Thomas de Stall )rook had «*iven it to Ivicliard son of Williapi de Careswalle, with a clause of warranty, and. as representing* Ricliard, lie called to warranty William, son and heir of Thomas de Stalhrook (m. 404 d). 51 Ed. III., Robert de Stretton, clerk, sued Xicholas Verdon of Colton, for taking his goods, forcibly, from Wolseley, to the value of 100s. He did not come, and was to ho arrested. There was a connection by marriage (v. pedigree) between the Griff yns and the de Verdons of Biddulph, in a former reign. Sir Thomas do Wasteneys, the eldest son and heir of Sir William, was not yet of age when his father died, which at once gave rise to a difficulty respecting his wardship and marriage : the latter being claimed by Lord Stafford, of whom he held Colton Manor. How this claim was adjusted wo are unable to say. Thomas certainly a 2 :)pealed to Lord Wake, his father’s friend and Lincolnshire ])atron, to interfere ; and it can be proved that his marriage with Joanna, daughter of Sir John Toly, of Wymondham, soon took place, for their names occur together in a Colton deed of 1339 a.d. Joanna seems to have been a woman of very strong character, whose business powers told ” on the future of lier husband’s family and of tlie village, es 2 )ecially in that double marriage alliance, which merged two Colton jn’operties in the Gresley” line. Tliomas de Wastineys Avas quite as distinguished a soldier as his father; in 1334 a.d. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 71 lie liacl a general pardon for good service while with the King in Scotland. In 1335 a.d. a writ of summons to Monsieur Thomas de Wastenays and other Lincolnshire tenants, directs them to be at Rokesburgh in February, with liorses and arms. He had letters of protection the next year, while serving in the retinue of John de Colleville. The French roll of 16 Ed. 3 (1342 a.d.) names him when about to cross the Channel, among the knightly following of the Warwickshire baron, Nicholas de Cantilujie. Three years later he was serving in France under Thomas de Beauchamp, Earl of Warwick. It is therefore all lint certain that he fought at Crecy in 1346 a.d.. for we find the Earl bears testimony to his good service during the war ; the writ, which is dated at Calais (September 4, 26 Ed. 3) implying that he may have shared in the memorable siege.* Sir Thomas was involved in many of the lawsuits so inseparable from the holding of unenclosed lands in those days. Down to the year 1350 a.d. his name occurs continually in the Plea and Patent rolls. As early as 5 Ed. 3 t(ld32 a.d.) the Master of Burton St. Lazar Hospital recovered from him the advowson of “ Brassynburgh ” church, claiming to have held the right of presentation since Henry IIl.’s reign (m. 322). 14 Ed. 3. — Sir Thomas, by attorney, sued * For these references see Staffs. Hist. Coll., Vol. 8. t Staffs. Hist. Coll., Vol. 11, p. 101. 72 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Richard, son of Simon de Tlirengston, for a forcible rescue of his cattle, which Sir Thomas’s servant had seized to satisfy a fine, imposed on Richard in the Court Leet of Sir Thomas^ at that place (m. 136).* The same year he appeared by liis essoin against William de Knotton, and Agnes his wife, for causing waste and destruction in lands, liouses and gardens Avliich they held of him in Colton, and which William de Wasteneys, his father, had demised to tliem for the life of Agnes (m. 491). In 15 Ed. 3t Ave find him suing John, son of John le Counter, and William, son of Adam le Smyth, of Colton, for six acres here ; they failed to appear, and the land was to be taken into the King’s hands.J In a.d. 1340 the rector of Cranwick, John de Gastineys, referred to previously, entailed tlie Colton estate on Sir Thomas and his sons, by a colluswe fine, as follows : — BetAveen Thomas de Gasteneys, | Chivaler, and Joan, his AAufe . ) I Complainants. and John de Gasteneys, Parson of the ' church of CrauAves, and Richard DE Redesdale, of Knaptoft, de- Deforciants. forciants of Colton Manor . y Thomas acknoAvledgcd the said manor to belong to John, saAung tAAm messuages, 51 acres of land, and five acres of meadoAV, and for this acknoAAdedgment * S. H. C., Vol. 11, p. 105, and see Fine below, t Vol. 11, p. 117, S. H. C. . I Staffs. Hist. Coll., Vol. 11, pp. 147-8. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 73 John and Richard granted tlie said manor to Thomas and Joan for tlieir lives ; and they further granted that tlie messuages and lands Avhich Robert Chamberleyn held for his life, and which William de Knotton and Agnes his wife held for the life of Agnes, and which William de la Reclie held for his life, should remain to Thomas and Joan for their lives; and after their deaths the said manor shall remain to William, son of Thomas and Joan, and his issue ; failing such, to John, lirother of William, and his issue ; and failing such, to Thomas, brother of John, and his issue; and failing such, to the right heirs of Thomas do Gastineys for OA^er. In 17 Ed. 3 (1344 a.d.) Sir Thomas sued William, son of Adam le Smyth, of Colton, for a moiety of 6 acres in Colton; and William called to warrantv Simon de Ruggeleye. [Tliis was land near the mill proliably ?] The next year Sir Thomas charges the same William, son of Adam le Smyth, Robert Alinore, and Geoffrey at Asshe, with coming forcibly on the Monday after Michaelmas ( 1 o Ed. 3) Avith SAVords, bows and arroAvs, and taking marl, clay and sand from his scA^eral soil at Colton, to tlie A^alue of 100s , and for Avhich he claimed £10 damages. William, appearing by attorney, denied the trespass, and appealed to a jury; the other defendants Avere to be attached (m. 144 d.). Con- tinuing the Pleas, Ave find (21 Ed. 3) Sir Thomas and Joan his Avife, Avith William their son, Ricliard de Redesdale, Nicholas ^Ge RcA^e” (7c., de Cald- AAMle), Robert Stikkebuk, William Stickbukke, John 74 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Dawkines-son (Dawson), Robert Checlle, Robert le 8(*oleniaster*, and John Stu1), accused of depriving Alianor Griffyn of the eightli ])art of 4 acres of pasture in Colton. t The jpry found they had done so illegally, excepting* William, son of Sir Thomas, and they assessed her damages at 40s. (m. 102). In 1326 A.u.J the Fishery rights had been the cause of a serious assault committed by the peojde of Colton, when Adam de Rugeley appeared against William Griffyn, of Colton, Robert, son of Walter, Stephen de Colton, John his son, and three more named, accusing them of having come vi et armis” to Rugeley, with swords, bows and arrows, and Auolently taken from him nets, and other machines for catching fish, to the value of 100s., and of liaving beaten his servants, William Philip and Adam atte Goter. The two first appeared, and denied the trespass, appealing to a jury; the others were to be produced by the Sheriff. We have further ])roof soon after how valuable the river riglits were, when, twelve years later (11 Ed. 3) there was another trial, “ Whether §Thomas de Wastineys and Adam de Ruggeley had unjustly disseised Roger, Bishop of Coventry and Lichfield, of 10 acres of land in Ruggele. Geoffrey Cok, their Ijailiff, appeared for them, Thomas de Wastineys })leading that the land in dispute was soil covered * Tutor of Sir Thomas’s sons ? t Staffs. Hist. Coll , Vol. 12, p. 66. I S. H. C., Vol. 9, p. 112. ^ S H. C., Vol. 11, p. 79. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 10 by the river Trente | was it part of the meadow so frequently overflowed now ?], and that the ‘‘ hlum ” or centre of the true course of that river was the boundary between Ru^eley and Colton, and that b acres of the land were in Colton ; also that William de Wastineys his father, whose heir he is, had died seised of them ; and as for the otlier five, they were in Ruo*ele, and that vill was of ancient demesne of the King, where no writ would run but the lesser writ of right. The Bishop'^ replied that Ruggele Manor (to part of the demesne of which manor the land in question belonged) was given by King Richard I. to his predecessor, tHugh Nonant, and that it was a free fee, sueable at common law. The jury decide for the ]3ishop, stating that the 10 acres are in Ruggeley Two years later Sir Thomas must have been residing in Colton, for ho wdtnessed the following- lease of certain water rights on the banks of the Trent, at Hempe-Ryding, near Ashleyhaywood, from Bisliop Roger to Roliert de Mavesyn : Domino Roberto Mauveysin, et Margarete uxori ejus, et heredibus, aquam nostram de Trente cum solo in manerio nostro de Ruggeleye, videlicet de * Bishop Roger de Norbury, 1322-1359 a.d. t Rugeley Mr Eyton holds to have been an estate of “ancient escheat,” accruing to William the Conqueror by the forfeiture of the last Mercian Earl Edwin, a great part being forest land, part of Cannock Chase. King Richard 1., to raise money for the Crusade, sold Cannock and Rugeley in 1190 a.d, to Bishop Hugh de Nonant (Staffs, Hist. Coll.). 70 80ME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Hcmpe-Rycling ’ Ovcr-encle, propinquior’ l)oseo (loiuini Ariselmi lo Maresclial, qiii vocatur ^ Asliley- liaye’ juxta Trent, usque Ashleye Netlierende (rent Os. 2d. a year).” Aiiotliei; deed of IRsliop Roger’s, of the same date, and eontaining a reference to the foregoing suit, grants “ Simoni dc Ruggeleye totain terrain nostram in Ruggeleye, super quain cursus ri})arii dc Trente deeurrit, cum tota aqua et pisearia ejusdem, et cum omnibus siccis placeis terre a([ua predi(*-ta circumdatis, vocatis ‘ le Holmes,’ videlicet a H)aywallesych ’ in Trent usque ad ^ Fleteford,’t adeo integre sicut dicta terra jacet, et aqua desuper deeurrit, et circumdat juxta terrain Dominorum de Colton, cum omniluis pertinentiis suis, quas recupe- ravimiis de Thoma de Wastineys niilite.” In 19 Ed. 0 (1346 a.d.) Sir Thomas Gasteneys. Kt.,J and William, son of Robert de AYodecote, of Osgarthorp, were attached to answer the plea of John Toly, of Wymondham, that they, together with W^illiani de Hoghton, parson of the church of Colton, and William atte Beche, of Osgarthorp, had taken his goods and chattels at Osgarthorp, to the value of £10, on the Monday before the feast of St. Cedde, the Bishop (18 Ed. 3), namely, wheat, barley, oats, beans and peas, forage, hay, brass and * “ Hemp-Ryding ” = one-third of a piece of land, set apart for growing hemp ? A crop of hemp was always grown on the demesne land of a manor to supply ropes for agricultural uses. [t Was “ Fleteford,” the site of Colton Bridge, below the Mill?! + Starts, Hist. Coll., Vol. 14, p. 62. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 77 wooden vessels, for wliieli lie elainied £200 as damages. The defendants, appearing by attorney, denied the injury and trespass, and apjiealed to a jury (in. 41 d.). The Plea rolls the same year (1345 AD.) show Sir Thomas suing John Toly to render a reasonable account of the issues of lands held in soccage, of which the said John had custody during the minority of Sir Thomas de Gasteneys. Jolin did not appear, (m. 234 d.) John Toly must have been one of his wife’s relations ; that he had been in charge of part of the Wasteneys property during Sir Tlionias’s minority throws some light perhaps upon the marriage ; and John Toly’s management of the trust, it seems, judging by these two lawsuits, had not proved above suspicion. Among other grants. Sir Thomas had given land here we know to John de Pickstoke, and to Pliilip Turville, one of the Lichfield canons, the deed being witnessed by Malcolm de Wastineys, of Tixall, and otliers. His Osgarthorpe estate was assessed at only 2s. 6d. for one-sixteenth part of a knight’s fee, when an aid was granted the King by Parliament a.d. 1340, for knighting his son Edward, ‘Glie Black Prince.” Three years later (1343 a.d.) Williehna, wife of Philip de Wasteneys, added 16 messuages and as many bovates of land to his Seton property in Yorkshire. In 1350 A.D. Sir Thodias witnessed a grant of the advowson of Blithfield, and 2 acres adjoining the churchyard. He died the same year. 44ie name of his brother, John de Wasteneys, occurs in a con- 78 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON veyaiice for life from Sir Thomas and his wife. Tlie otlier brotlier may I )e identical with the Stephen de *\Yastineys, of Brassingburgli, mentioned in tlie Gresley Chartulary, wlp) married Joanna de ^lor- timer. Very proljably the Isabella, daughter of ^lons. Win. de Wasteneys, Knight, who married Sir Robert de Jortz, Knight, of Burton (1825 a.d.), was one of their eight sisters. Thoroton states that when Sir Robert and Isabella left their land at Kjierston to Sir John de Chetwind and others. Sir Thomas and Sir Hardolph de Wasteneys were among the witnesses (vide Thoroton’s, Nottingham- shire). Sir Thomas’s wife, Joan Toly, bore these arms on a field argent 3 cinquefoils sable.” The Wasteneys arms, as here represented, are “ sable, a lion rampant argent, collared and langued gules.” It is reniarkalile that his three sons, William, John and Thomas, died childless, tlierebv defeating every * Joanna de Mortuoinari quondam uxor Stephani de Wasteneys de Brassingburg. COLTON, BRASSINGBURY, CARLEBY, OSGARTHORPE, &c. X H 'o o Q a ‘■+3 o -T3 5e o o O rt Q -13 CO id o ® IS •SO ^ % fl ® C ^ (M .1^ o < - II — - £ CO d ;- (3 -u ■5 ^ <3l ; - II II Q „ !>• d2 ■73 1—t - fl di ® Tt< jd cq O^r-H O) 02 g o o III ^ I— I CO d lo S CO m 'd ® CO dj(N d3 C<■ o Sg^ ^ o CO d « 02 © 05 |Ih is o ce w OC dB o d "T" ^ (M o oo l-j (M s « di f*5 ir' ^ .. o '-rt 't' aco 2 ^ g CO O -d H d ce 11 s^ O - II P5 d5 ^ CO rS 'O ■d c ^ Wd: 02 02 C Si Q O < r2 'cf^ d CO d ^ ^ (M ^ ri S' § - © CO ^ 'i o ^ 2 ?S c ® -TT ^ O -d| I - d r'l 2 d i-H © I o Ol 2 o o c., 40 bucks, 100 does, etc., for which he claimed £200 damages. They appealed to a jury, and the case was again adjourned to 4 Ric. 2 (m. 45). He further charged them with breaking into his free warren here on the Monday after the octaves of St. Augustine (2 R. 2), and taking his fish, pike, perch, roach, bremes and eels, to the value of £10; besides 20 hares, 40 rabbits, 40 pheasants, and 1,000 partridges, for which he claimed £200 damages. It seems that they again appealed. We find (32 Ed. 3) Sir John and his wife are pursuing Richard, son of Robert de Colton, chaplain, for a messuage here, as Joan’s right, on the same ground as in the Colton Mill case, of dues unpaid for two years. In 3 Ric. 2, there was a trial whether Sir John and Joan,t * Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 14, pp. 146 and 151, t Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 13, p. 162, AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 99 with Thomas Toly and Sibil his wife, had unjustly deprived Henry Puys (Wells),* and Richard de Hampton, t of a messuage, 68 acres of land, 10 acres of meadow, 8 acres of wood, a weir, and half an acre of land covered with water, in Colton. The defendants failing to appear, the case was tried in their absence, and the recognitors stated that the jdaintiffs had been disseised, and they fixed the damages at 20 marcs (m. 10 roll 1487). Whether the weir and half-acre of land covered with water refer to the mill-pool at Hamley or not is uncertain. That there must have been such a pool, where the water supply was small, is most probable. For want of evidence, the question must remain open. In 7 Ric. 2 (1384 A.D.), John de Gresley, Kt., brought an action against Richard, vicar of Rugeley Church, for forcibly taking three swans, worth £10, from the aery of the said John, at Colton. Richard did not appear, and the Sheriff returned that he held nothing, he is to be arrested, and produced on the morrow of All Souls (m. 67). 12 Ric. 2,J William Clerk, Parson of Colton, a turbulent lawless man, was attached at Sir John de Gresley’s suit, for breaking into his Colton free warren, with one John Clerk, on the *The arms of this family, given on the seal of Henry de Puis, of Ruggeley, temp. Ric. 2, are “a chevron between three hunting horns ” (Gresley Chartulary). f Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 13, p. 183. The Hampton family bore for their arms “ a fesse between three horseshoes;” v. seal of this Richard de Hampton (Gresley Chartulary). i Staffs. Hist. Coll, vol 15, p. 21, 100 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Monday Ijefore Michaelmas (11 Ric. 2), and taking 60 hares, 100 rabbits, 100 pheasants, 200 partridges, and repeating the same trespass divers times for a year afterwards, for wliich Sir John claimed £40 damages. William, appearing by attorney, denied the trespass, appealing to a jury. The suit was at last removed by writ of nisi prius ” to be heard at Stafford, where the jury convicted him of entering the free warren, and taking 40 hares and 60 pheasants, for which they adjudged him to pay the heavy fine of 20 marcs (£13. 6s. 8d ). For the rest of the charges John de Gresley was amerced for a false claim (m. 574 d.) The Pleas of 11 Ric. 2, state further that Sir Thomas de Stafford, Kt., charged the same William Clerk, parson here, with breaking into a close of his in Colton, and taking his goods to the value of £20. The Sheriff returned that William held nothing. He was to be arrested and produced (m. 358 d). (-)nly the preceding term that year, John Smyth, of Colton,* had sued the same William Clerk and Robert de Pilkynton (Wright) for beating and wounding him at Colton. The next year Sir Thomas de Stafford renews his charge ; adding a further complaint and claim for damages done l)y William Clerk’s cattle in treading down and eating his grass to the Audue of £5. William had disappeared, and could not l)e found. In 9 Ric. 2,t (>ue William Saunderson, of Ingestre, charged William, son of Adam Xi(*hols, of Colton, * Staffs. Hist. Coll., Vol. 15, p. 7. t Staffs. Hist. Coll. vol. 13, p. 192, AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 101 John, son of William Bailly, of Colton, and William Pennc, of Colton, with lieating- and wounding him at Colton, and keeping him in prison till he j^aid a fine of £4 for his release. They were to he arrested and produced (m. 381). 14 It. 2, Thomas de Morhay sued John Smyth, of Colton, for 4 acres here, and liicliard Smyth for 4 acres, which Adam de Frees (Wells) had given to Agatha, daughter of Walerand le Bret, for her life, with remainder to John, son of Agatha, and the heirs of his body, and which should descend to Thomas. The case is interesting, because he put in the following pedigree : — Walerand le Bret [Witnesses Colton deed, c. *1220.] Agatha de Morhay, d. of Walerand le Bret [c. Henry *3 and Ed. 1, 1278 a.d.] John, son of Agatha de Morhay [Attests a deed here,* 1295 a.d.] = Dionysia Henry, son of John de Morhay [a.d.* 1322, etc.] I Felicia, d. of Henry de Morhay Thomas, son of Felicia de Morhay [10 Ric. 2, etc.] *The dates here are inserted from Colton deeds (v. appendix). In the Plea Roll pedigree, John de Morhay is dated temp. Ed. 3, which is likely to mislead an enquirer. 102 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON A jury was to be summoned, as John Smyth denied Ids tenancy, and Ricliard Smyth called John Smyth to warranty *(m. 866). The year 1892 a.d. (15 li. 2), witnessed a tine levied between Ro^er de Gresley, Edmund Toly, John Abel of Caldewall, and John de Yoxhalle, on the one side ; and Sir John Gresley and Joan his wife, on the other ; concerning* the church manor of Colton, (‘ailed MaiuhaPs and Grvffin’s,” and four messuages, 60 acres (J land, 12 acres of meadow, 60 acres of moor, and 20s. 6d. of rent, in Colton and AY(Jseley, with the advowson of Coltcm Church. By this tine the manor and advowson were entailed on Sir John Gresley and Joan for their lives, and after their decease, to remain to Thomas Gresley and Margaret his wife, and their issue, and in default of such issue, then to the right heirs of John Gresley. j" In supply- ing us with this name for the “de Colton,’’ or church manor, the tine is a valuable contirmation of the account previously given of the former j^ossessors. A deed of 1864 a.d. proves the marriage of Nicholas Gresley and Thomasine to have taken place before that year. In 1872 Sir John and Joan leased to him Osgarthorpe manor, except the advowson and the glebe meadow. As Sir Nicholas de Gresley, Kt., in 1874 A.D., he received other lands there from a certain Pain Bozoun (v. Gresley charters, 827). The eldest son by this marriage, Sir Thomas Gresley, * Staffs. Hist. Col., vol. 15, p. 33. t Staff's Hist. Coll, vol 11, p. 199. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 103 succeeded to all the De Wasteneys’ lands, and it was on him and his wife that the above entail was made of the Church Manor.* After the death of Sir Nicholas, Thomasine took for her second husband Sir Hamon de Peshall, Kt. ; and they appear to have lived at Colton in 1395 a.d., for we find a deed executed by them here granting to one John Ball, of Osgarthorpe, the site of that manor with the orchard and buildings, t Sir Hamon had lands at Gfreat Wenlock, Whyston, and Trent, v. Pleas of Richard 2 (S. H. Coll. vol. 15). Previously to this some collusive suits of 12 Ric. 2 (1389 A.D.) were raised between Thomasine de Gresley, and her second husband on the one hand ; and Thomas Rodhode and Richard Colwich, chap- lains, on the other — the object being to levy the following fine, for an entail of the property. Fines of Mixed Counties of Ric. 2’s Reign. On the Octaves of Holy Trinity, 12 Ric. 2 (1392 A.D.). And afterwards recorded on the Octaves of St. Martin (18 R. 2), between * Roger Gresley, her younger son, resided at Church Gresley, in Derbyshire ; his only daughter and heiress, Margaret, married William Bapthorp, of Elston, Leicestershire. Thomasine sub- sequently restored the church here, and decorated the south chancel walls with frescoes. The life of St. Nicholas, her husband’s patron saint, being among the subjects portrayed. May not the work very probably have been done to his memory, in the interval between her first and second marriage. t Gresley Chartulary. 104 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Thomas Rodliodo, Chaplain . Complainant and Hamon de Peslialo masino, his wife Concerning the Wasteneys’ Manor of Colton, Staffs., the Manor of Osgostliorp, Leicestershire, the manors of Brassingburgh and Carlby . . . and a messuage, a carucate of land, 20s. rent in Thur- leby, CO. Lin(‘oln, and of the manor of Seton, co. Ebor.* Sir Hamon and Thom a sine acknowledged the right of Thomas Rodhode, for which he granted that the said manors and tenements, which John de Greslev and Joan his wife held for the life of Joan, should remain to the said Hamon and dJiomasine, and to the heirs of Thomasine for ever. The Pleas of 1 9 Ric. 2t lu’ove that Sir Hamo de Peshall sued William and Richard Griff yn for cutting down his trees and underwood at Colton, to the value of £10. They did not appear (m. 361). It is somewhat remarkable that in 1399 a.d., one John Cook is descril^ed as conveying all his rights and pro})erty here to Thomasine de Gresley^^'^ mis- tress of Colton, and that even so late as 1403 a.u. she is thus named twice in the Plea Rolls, Avhere, as Thomasine “ de Greslev,” she charged John Hare, John Wygan, John Coh n, Nicholas Bette, Ralph Mulward, and Richard de Sonde, for treading down * Staffs. Hist. Coil., vol. 11, p. 209. t Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 15, p. 74. Kt., and Tho- ) . , ^ [ IJeforciants AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 105 and coiisuniing lier grass at Colton with their cattle, to the value of £10.* This was at Michaelmas; while in the Easter term, as Thomasia “ de Gres- ley,” she had recovered a messuage and three acres of land in Colton from Roger Syward and Agnes his wife for not paying rent during the last two years (m. 203). Probably it is best accounted for by the fact that her son, Sir Thomas de Gresley. was the next heir ; and by the name of Gresley being far more important in the neighbourhotjd than that of Peshall ; and now for hfty years past con- nected with the possession of Colton. Again, as Thomasine de Gresley and lady of Colton in 22 Ric. 2 (1398 a.d.), she leased to her son for his life, the Lincolnshire Manor of Brassingburgh (Braceborough) and the advowson of half of Carleby Church, for a rent of £26, being herself then resi- dent at Brassy ngburgh. But her death had occurred before July 1405 a.d. (6 Hen. 4). Witness Sir Thomas de Gresley’ s feoffment of his estates at that date (v. appendix). Of the two persons, Joan Toly, her mother, and Sir John de Gresley, who had so considerably in- fluenced Colton interests — the former appears to have died circa 1393 a.d. (16 Ric. 2), to judge by the probate of her will, which is here given at length from the original at Drakelowe (No. 355, Gresley Charters). * Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 15, p. 98. 106 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Will of Joan dp: Gresley. Tn nomine Domini, amen, ego, Johanna de Gresley e, domina de Drakelowe, bone et sane meraorie, condo testamentum meum in hunc modum. Primo lego anrimam Deo, et beate Marie, et omnibus sanctis, et corpus meum ad sepeliendum in ecclesia parochiali de Brassingborough, videlicet in capella Sancti Georgii ex parte boreali, et lego rectori de Brassingborough nomine pryncipalis unum equura prec’ XL solid, vel (the equivalent in cash ?) et lego cuilibet servienti meo X solidos. Item lego Priori de Greseley unum principalem prout decet. Item lego Thome de Gresley XX. marcas argenti. Et totum residuum volo quod sit ad dispositionem domini mei Johannis de Greseleye. Et ad hoc testamentum exequendum ordino et constituo Edmundum Toly, et Johannem Yoxhall, execu tores meos, et dominum meum Johannem de Greseleye supervisorem eorum. In cujus rei testi- monium huic testamento meo sigillum meum apposui. Dat’apud Drakelowe die . . . proxima ante festum Penticostes, anno regni Regis Ricardi secundi post conquestum sexto decimo ” (16 R. 2 ). Probatum fuit presens testamentum coram nobis Johanne de Garton, venerabilis patris domini Ricardi, Dei gratia Coventren- sis et Lichfeldensis Episcopi, sequestratore generali. Commissa que est administracio ejusdem Edmundo Toly executor! infra (scripto?) (in ?) forma juris jurato ; reservata nobis potestate committendi administracionem Johanni executor! infra (scripto ?). Dat’apud Drakelow, V. Kalend Junii (?) anno domini milesimo ccc™"- nona- gesimo tercio. It seems likely from this that the family burial place of the de Wasteneys was in Lincolnshire, since though she died at Drakelowe, Joanna desired that her body might rest at Brassingburgh, and not with her second husband’s family. The executors of Sir John Gresley’s will, namely Sir Thomas de Greseley, Kt., Ins grandson, and John Curson, are shown in the Pleas of Easter 2 H. 4, to AND OF THE UE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 107 be suing William Clerk, parson of Colton Church, for a debt of £6 owing to the deceased Sir John.* William did not appear, and is to be arrested and produced by the Sheritf (m. 414 d.). This entry does not, however, mark the date of Sir John’s death, for an earlier claim was made by his executors in 19 Rich. 2 (1395 a.d.). It is to be observed that in October the previous year, he had signed a notice that not having had the power of his seal” for the past year, he denied all contracts and writings sealed in his name during that time. The present deed being confirmed with the seal of Repingdon Deanery. This looks as if he had been too ill to manage his own affairs, and others had been acting for him, but without proper authority (v. (Tresley Charters). The Feet of Fines (I Hen. 4)t mention a suit between John Clerkson, of Colton, and Thomas del Hay, of Kinges Bromley, and Agnes his wife, concerning a messuage, a toft, and 16 acres of land here. Thomas and Agnes remit all claim, receiving from John 20 silver marcs. Five years later, there was a fine levied between Sir Thomas Gresley, Kt.,J and William de Penne of Colton, and Isabella his wife, for two messuages, 65 acres of land, and 7 acres of meadow here (in Colton andColneley) (Colton-ley ?) William and Isabella resigned all claim, receiving 10 marcs from Sir Thomas. The Greslev Chartu- * Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 15, p. 97. t Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 11, p. 210. t Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 11, p. 214. 108 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON laiy contains the copy of a grant of half a cottage here, which descended to me after the death of Felicia Backhoke,” from Sybil Backboke to AVilliam Griffyn, 20 Rich. 2, 1 89^ a.d. This seems to add another link to the Griffyn pedigree, and is further valuable for the coat of arms upon the seal attached. Party per pale, a lion rampant within a bordure engrailed, impaling 8 chevrons, and a file of 8 points, charged with as many roundels.” A Mavesyn grant (circa. Hen. 3) is witnessed by Wm. Griffyn de Col- ton, and Win. Griffyn de Clayton; taken together with these arms, this is sufficient proof that the Griffyns of Colton were a branch of the Clayton Griffvn family. In 1418 A.D. (1 Plen. 5), Richard Say charged John Clerk, of Colton, with unjustly disseising him of 22s. of rent here — proceeding from land formerly belonging to Henry Cohnon, who had bound him- self by a deed of 1807 a.d., now produced in court, to })ay that amount to Geoffrey le Wasteneys, lord of Tyxhale, in perpetuity. Geoffrey had passed it down from father to son through Malcolm, William and Roger Wasteneys ; and Roger had conveyed it liy deed (of 1 Hen. 4) to Richard Say, the plaintiff — wlio now recovered the rent, with 20s. damages (m. 5, assize roll. Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 17, p. 48). This rent may represent the small interest in Colton of the Tyxhall branch of the Wasteneys. Both Henry Colmon’s grant, and that of Roger Wasteneys will be found in the appendix to the Wasteneys of dhxall. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 109 Sir Thomas took to wife Margaret Walsh,* of Waiilip, in Leicestershire, whose arms are given in Wanlip Church as gules two bars argent, over all a bend of the last,’’ though Dugdale wrongly repre- sents them as bars gemels (in his great jiedigree of the Astons, now in the Salt Library, Stafford). Being possessed of such wide estates. Sir Tliomas de Gresley was necessarily a man of considerable importance ; he represented Derbyshire in the Parliament of a.d. 1401. Nine years later we find him receiving from Richard Hampton (otherwise called Richard Wymer, of Drakelow, cousin and heir of Margery Wymer, of Blithbury), all the said Richard’s rights and projierty in Colton and the adjoining parishes of Abbot’s and Bagot’s Brondey and Mavesyn Ridware.f Certain grants of land in the Newlands to Sir Thomas and others will be found in the appendix, liearing date from 1409 to 1411 A.D. We know that he again sat in I^arlia- ment for Derbyshire in a.d. 1415 and 1418, and liecame High Sheriff of Staffordshire in 1439, after representing tliat county in 1434. In the former i^ublication of these notes it was stated, on tlie authority of Sir H. Nicliolas, that when the English invasion of France took place in * Daughter of Sir Thomas Walsh. Owing, probably, to this connection, several deeds relating to the Leicestershire property of the Walsh family, were found among the Ingestre records. t Margery Wymer is described as daughter of William Wymer, of Blithbury, and sister and heiress of John Wymer, her brother, 110 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON 1415, Sir Thomas was rated to serve in King Henry V.’s retinue with three men - at - arms and nine archers ; Sir John Gresley, his son, being rated at two men-at-arms and six archers. They were not themselves present at the decisive victory of Agin- coiirt— possibly they formed part of the force left behind by tlie king to garrison Harfleur. One William Holeyns, however, a lance belonging to Sir Thomas Gresley, took part in the battle. An extract obtained through Genl. Wrottesley from the so-called Agincourt ’’ roll (Treasurer’s receijDt Miscellanea gives (R.) John Gresley, Chevalier. John Gresley, chevalier, Robert Viker, [ Lances. And eight archers. To reconcile the two statements is difficult, unless they relate to the expeditions of different years ; King Henry V. having twice sailed for France (in 1415 and 1417). Probably this is the correct explanation. Previously, while Richard II. was yet on the throne, consideralile friction had arisen be- tween Sir Thomas and his neighbours, the Abbot and Monks of Burton. A memorandum of their complaints exists, and has been printed among the Gresley deeds. The inclosing of a meadow called Xewe medowe, of a pasture called Thornyhalugh, and of a piece of DrakeloAve meadow [formerly un- inclosed, cither entirely, or at least after the crops AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. Ill were carried]. The exaction of a day’s reaping from tlie Abbot’s cottars in Caldewall, the construc- tion of a new weir on the Trent, to the injury of the Abbot’s land. That John Bette, a servant of Sir Thomas, had entered the abbey with other re- tainers (23 Ric. 2) and taken a grey horse of the Abbot’s violently, and carried it off. Also Thomas de Gresley and his men had robbed the Abbot’s men at Brondeston of a boat and net, after putting them to flight. The aforesaid John Bette, and others, had besides come to Burton constantly, threatening and abusing the Monks, and the Abbot’s tenants. Lastly, on the highway. Sir Thomas’s men had seized a horse from a cart of the kitchener’s, and never sent it back.” Sir Thomas enfeoffed Philip de Repingdon, Bp. of Nicole, Thomas Langley, then Chancellor of England, Sir Thomas Maureward, Kt., John Foljambe, and others, in all his manors, together with the advowsons of the churches in Colton (and elsewhere in Staffs.); in Osgathorpe (and Leicestershire generally) ; in Braceborough, (co. Lincoln) ; and in Seton and elsewhere (co. York) ; which formerly belonged to Sir Thomas Wastneys, his grandfather, and fell to him on the death of the Lady Thomasine de Gresley, his mother. John Bagot, Kt., and Nicholas de Ruggeley, being among the witnesses (v. appendix). It was sealed at Colton, July 22nd, 1405 a.d. The explanation of this, we gather from their refeoff- ment of Sir Thomas in his estates, which had been conveyed to them as trustees,” with special in- 112 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON structions case he had died before this refeoff- ineiit was made ” ; or in case his son had not been of full age at Sir Thomas’s death ; or in case his Avife Margaret, being a AVidow, had married again. The Avhole of this French deed will be found in the appendix. In 1417 A.D. (4 Hen. 5), Sir Thomas de Gresley, Ivt., described in the Plea Poll as the son of Tho- masiiie de Gresley, otherAvise Thomasia, formerh' Avife of Nicholas de Gresley, Kt., sued Thomas DaAy, of Horecros, gentleman, for a debt of £40. Thomas failing to appear, the Sheriff is to distrain and produce him (m. 66).* In A.D. 1420, Ave find Sir Thomas Gresley grant- ing permission to the sub-prior and monks of Gresley Priory to elect a new su 2 Derior,t “the former 2)rior liaAung gone the way of all flesh.” As their “ j^atronus legitimus et advocatus,” he took charge of the temporalities on a Prior’s death, and his license for the election of a new superior aa^us necessary ; on receding his sanction they ^jroceeded with the election ; and rejDorted a AA^eek later that William de St. lA^es had been chosen. Subsequently (1438 a.d.), John Bredon, the sub- Prior, petitions that Sir Thomas aauII ratify their choice of Pichard of CoA^entry to succeed William de St. Ives, lately deceased. The Plea Polls shoAV that Sir Thomas Gresley * Staffs. Hist. Coll., vol. 17, p. 59. t Gresley Chartulary, AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 113 had been arijitrator at Drakelow between John Dethick and RaljJi Hosee (Hussey) of Congkston. Ralph accused John and two otlier Dethicks of getting him imprisoned on a false charge of break- ing into Thomas Dethick’s house at Uttoxeter ; and wounding him with an arrow. Sir Thomas, after careful consideration, had adjudged John to pay a jar of wine in full compensation to Ralph, who now, two years later, was trying to extort £600 damages. Twenty-four knights from the Drakelow neighbourhood were to be summoned to decide the case [v. Pleas, 1422 a.d.. Staffs. Hist. Coll.). In 1437, Sir Thomas, and his son and heir. Sir John, for the good of their souls,” so the grant runs, ^ ^ allow the abbot and monastery of Burton- on-Trent to bring their lead pijies for drawing water under the Gresley lands at Stapenhull.^ The value of the Yorkshire property of the Wasteneys at this time is shewn by an entry estimating the rental of his lands at Seton and Spaldingmore at £4 2s. 2d. Besides his son. Sir John, he left be- hind him two daughters — Joan,t who was nurse to the young King Henry VI., and married Thomas Astley, Esq., of Patishull, and Margaret, who became the wife of Sir John Blount, and mother of Walter, first Lord Mountjoy, Lord Treasurer to King Edward IV. and a Knight of the Garter. J * Gresley Chartulary. t Blores’ MSS. Collections S.L. Joan died in 31 Hen. 6. Created Lord Mountjoy in 1465 a.d His death occurred in 1474. We learn from Stow’s London (Ed. Thoms, p. 120; that 114 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON During* * his father’s lifetime Sir John Gresley had married Margaret, daughter of Sir Thomas Clarell, of Aldwark, in Yorkshire,* whose arms are ^‘six silver martlets on a red figld.’^ In 1409 A.n., a grant was coiihrmed to them both by Thomas Ijangley, bishop of Durham, Philip de Ilepington, bishop of Nicole (for so, by a kind of French euphony, they pronounced Lincoln), Sir Thomas Maureward and others, of an annual grant of twenty marcs, arising from Colton manor, for their lives. As the deed was signed at Colton it seems possible, though by no means certain, that these bishops may have been residing here with Sir Thomas on their way to or from the North. Both bishops were subsequently created cardinals. Sir John Gresley was afterwards returned as one of the principal gentry of Staffordshire by the Royal Commissioners sent to report the names of all persons of note, that they might be sworn to keep the peace for themselves and their retainers, because the title of the House of York had just been set on foot. 1434 A. I). (12 Hen. 6.) A precaution in the present instance by no means unnecessary, for Dugdale, in his Baronage, quotes an ancient deed containing the he was buried in the “ Postles Chapel ” of the Grey Friars’ Church. * The first of her family connected with Aldwark was Sir William Clarell, who acquired it by marriage with Agnes Wal- leis, daughter and heiress of Sir William Walleis (temp. Ed. 1 and Ed. 2), nide Hunter’^ South Yorkshire, Her sister married Sir liobert Wg^^tertou, AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 115 names of those Lords, Knights, and Grentlemon, \Yho by indenture covenanted to stand by William, Lord Hastings, in peace or war. This roll is headed by John Blount, Lord Mount joy, and seventh in order stands the name of Sir John Gresley,^ a proof cpiite sufficient of some leaning to the party of the White Rose in his son’s case at least if not in his own. For to judge from a lease granted by the feoffees of Margaret, widow of John Gresley, Kt., to John Gresley, Esqre., her son, of the manors of Colton and Kingston (for a term of thirty years, at a rent of forty pounds a year), and dated March 1, 27 Hen. 6 (1449 a.d.). Sir John Gresley was dead some twenty-six years before that bond was entered upon. Besides a son and heir, named Jolm, he had issue a daughter, Catherine, married to Sir Win. Peyto, of Chesterton, in Warwickshire, ancestor through the female line, of Lord Willoughby de Broke, and a younger son Nicholas (v. Feud arbitra- tion deed). Sir J ohn Gresley was High Sheriff for Derbyshire in 32 Hen. 6 (1454 a.d.\ having been returned as member for Staffordshire the previous year. He afterwards sat for Derbyshire in the Parliament of 1461 (39 Hen. 6), and subsequently in that of 1478 A.D., for the same county. This Sir John had strengthened his connection with Staffordshire by * No less than 89 names are here enrolled, including 2 lords, 9 knights, and 58 esquires, besides 20 gentlemen. It is dated 4 Ed. 4 , 1475, A.D. The exact date of Sir John’s death is not given ifi the S. L. pedigrees, but this entry refers, ng doubt, to his son, 116 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON taking to wife Anne,* daugliter of Sir Tlioinas Stanley, of Elforcl, Kt. The following* award of Humphrey, Duke of Bu(*kingham, to determine ithe feud “long time hangyng’’ between Sir William Vernon, Kt., Roger Vernon his brother, with their retainers on the one liand, and Sir John Gresley, Kt., Nicholas his brother, there men-servants and tenants on the other,’’ dated Sept. 13, 34 Hen. 6 (1455 a.d.), throws light on the state of feeling between these two leading families of Derbyshire, “ All quarrels were first to be laid aside, with all manner of grudgings and rancour of heart.” If any future difficulties arose, the Duke, or his son Stafford, in his absence, was to be their referee. Amies, widow of John Herte, slain at Burton by Sir William Vernon’s servants, was to be at once paid 1 7 marcs, yet outstanding of 20 that had been before awarded her to be expended for the benefit of the soul of the said John, and the relief of Amies and of her children. On the other hand Sir J ohn Gresley was to pay to the use of Thomas Webbe of Shele, tenant of Sir William Vernon, which was hurte by Sir John’s servants : “ for a sore wounde in the head 13s. 4d., for another sore wounde in the face 13s. 4d., and for every of six (!) other woundes 6s. 8d., and for a maim on the thumb in the left hand £5 - sum 12 marcs 6s. 8d.” This precise valuation of the various wounds is curious enough. * Gresley Chartulary, Manchester. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 117 Tlie public records place Sir John first on a list of ten principal men of the county, chosen com- missioners to assess, and appoint collectors of, the tax imposed by Edward IV. ’s last Parliament on all aliens, except Spanish, Breton, and Almayn mer- chants. *In 1488 we find Elizabeth Shyrbourne, Prioress of the Blessed Trinity of Grace Dieu,’’ bringing a suit against Sir John Gresley, Knight, Lord of Osgarthorpe, before Catherine, Lady of Hastings, widow of the celebrated William Lord Hastings, before mentioned. The Prioress claimed a yearly rent, which Dame Rose de Verdon, their foundress, had received about the middle of the 13th century by the gift of Sir William de Wasteneys. tTwo years later (2nd Richard 3) Sir John was one of tlie commissioners of survey and array for Staffordshire. That fresh difficulties had arisen between Burton Abbey and the Gresleys, is proved by Sir John Gresley’s bond, dated Eeb. 0, 1467 (6 Ed. 4) in 200 marcs, to abide l)y the award of George, Duke of Clarence, brother of King Edward IV., in settling their disputes. 4 he Abbot and monastery claiming certain rents and lands in Burton, Drakelow, Calde- wall, and Lynton, a fishery in Trent, from “ Rede- bank in Walton, up to the Abbot’s mill called Over-mill,” and Sir John claiming certain of the * Gresley Chartulary. t Public Records, 1486-8. S.L. 118 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON abbey rents in Burton, Tetnall, and elsewhere in Staffs, (v. Gresley deeds). Sir John Gresley died in a.d. 1480, leaving behind him a family consisting of* one son. Sir Thomas, and three daughters — Alice, married to John Eger- ton, a second who was the wife of Uiomas Darell, and Anne, wlio married Sir Simon ]\Iountford, of Coleshill. We have omitted to notice that in 1481, Sir Jolm gave to Win. Gresley, rector of Stoke, and to Richard Gresley, tlie manor of Colton — Richard Bagot of Blithheld, his son John Bagot, and Richard Wigan of Colton, witnessing the deed — but evidently this was onlv^ done liy a collusive suit, for they reconvey to him and Anne his wife the said manor. The arms of Stanley of Elford, his wife’s family are “argent on a bend azure 8 stags heads cabossed.” It is worthy of note that in 1480 a.d., John Griffon surrendered all his rights in the town and fields of Colton to John Aston, Esqre., Ralph Wolseley (a Baron of the Exchequer,) and John Bale, rector of Blithfield. A fine of 21 Ed. 4, between Ralph Wolseley com- plainant, and Sir Thomas Littleton, Kt., deforciant, of a rent of 22s., issuing from four tofts, 100 acres of land, 80 acres of meadow, 100 acres of pasture, and 20 acres of wood in Colton, determines that Thomas granted the said rent ; which Sir John Gresley, Kt., tenant of the aforesaid tenements, was wont to pay to Thomas and his heirs ; to Ral})h Wolseley and his heirs, for which Ralph gave him 20 silver marcs. The following year, by another AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 119 fine, Ralph Wolseley acquired certain Bisliton and Colton land. This Ralph was one of the Barons of the Exchequer, and much in favour with Edward ly., who granted him license to crenellate Wolseley Hall; and to make “deer-leaps’’ in his park, a right still carefully ])reserved hy the Wolseley s, though there are no longer wild deer on Cannock Chase, to be induced to venture over them. Of Sir Thomas Gresley we know but little ; un- like his father, he seems to have avoided taking any very active part in public affairs, although he served on one occasion as High Sheriff for Stafford- shire ; this was in a.d. 1490. Sir Louis Bagot, by deed dated 1492 a.d., 7 Hen. 7, conveyed to Sir Thomas Gresley four acres of arable land here, lying within an inclosure called “ Hasilhurste,” now included within the “ New Park,” with a quit-claim of the other lands and pastures included in the same new park, together with those included within the “ Barre-moor ” and “Moor Heys.” These lands are near the “Park fields,” on the Colton Hall side, and not far from the mill. The grant is noticeable if we are to conclude that the park about Colton Hall was now being made — or at least considerably enlarged. By his wife Anne Ferrers, of Tamworth Castle, he left issue at his death in a.d. 1504, five sons — Sir William, Sir George, John (a priest ; made rector of Colton in a.d. 1498),* Robert, and James, besides * Lichfield Diocesan Registry. 120 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON a dauglitcT Elizabeth. The arms of Ferrers, of Tamwortli, are “gules seven mascles, conjunct ^3, 8, and 1, or; a label for difference.” Sir William Gresley, the eldest son, served King Henry VIII. in the invasion of France, was present at the siege of Terouenne in a.d. Io 18, and at the battle of “ The Spurs.” The King knighted him (October 14th) at Lisle. The contract of his marriage with Benet Vernon, daughter of Sir Henry Vernon, of Much-IIaddon, is, we l)elieve, extant, bearing date 1497 A.D. ; probably special importance was attached to it at the time, Ijecause of the feud between the two families, in which we saw Humphrey, Duke of Buckingham, act as mediator (1456 a.d.) Now, some forty years later, the marriage of a daughter of the Vernons with the heir of the Gresley s, Avould put a still more effectual end to all ill-feeling between the two houses. This marriao:e max" ex- plain the presence of several Vernon deeds in the Gresley charter collection. Among the fines of mixed counties, 11 Hen. 8, occurs the following conveyance of the Gresley estates to Sir John Burdett, Thomas Boteler, and others, from Sir William Gresley. Besides Drakelowe, Lollington, Castle Gresley, Lynton, Okethorpe, and Dunes- thorpe manors (in co. Derby), the manors of Colton, Kyneston, Morton, Hykesdon (Hixon), and Tutbury- AVoodhouses, are named ; and of 60 messuages, 1,000 acres of land, 600 of meadow, 1,000 of pas- ture, 500 of wood, 100 of marsh, and 100 of furze and heath, and of a rent in Colton, Morton, Hixon, AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 121 &c , &c., CO. Staffs.; of Osgarthorpe and Morton Manors, co. Leicester ; of the Manors of Seyton-in- Spalding, co. York ; and tliose of Brasynhurgli, Carleby, and Baston, co. Lincoln ; for which they gave him 6,000 marcs. The wealth of the family and their firm hold on the Wasteneys’ estates are well shown hy this list. As Sir William died without legitimate issue, his brother Greorge, the second son of Sir Thomas, took possession of the family estates, including Colton, but not unchallenged ; for Cardinal AVolsey’s award against the claim raised by Sir William’s widow, Alice, and her four bastard sons, will be found on page 105 of the Gresley Charters. George Gresley was created a Knight of the Bath at the coronation of Queen Ann Boleyn, a.d. 1564, and served in 1568, and again in 1545, as High Sheriff for Staf- fordshire. He married Margaret Mulso, of Thinge- don, now Finedon, Northants,* and had, besides a son William, a daughter Catherine, married to Edward AYinter, of Leicestershire |_a deed given in the appendix shows that she had land here from her father] ; by his second wife Catherine Dudley, daughter of Edward Lord Dudley, K.G., he left two sons, Edward and Thomas, and a daughter, Elizabeth, married to Charles Somerset. * The Mrms of Mulso are “ ermine on a bend sable three goats’ heads erased argent.” 5 Hen. 4. Mulsho paid a fine for leave to purchase the Manor of Thingden, or Finedon. (Vide Bridges’ Northants, v. 2, p. 256). 122 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON In 1533 A.D. (24 Hen. 8), a fine levied between Sir John Gilford, Kt., and others, including Wil- liam Chetwynd, James Gresley, and Humphrey Mynours, Com})lainants ; and Thos. Boteler, Armiger, Anthony Gresley, Thomas and Xtopher Colwich, John and Thomas Saunder, and others. Deforciants ; settled Colton and Kynston [Kings- ton] manors for 2,000 marcs (with 60 messuages, 30 tofts, 2,000 acres of land, 500 of meadow, 1,400 pasture, 2,000 wood, 1,000 furze and heath, and £10 of rent in Colton and other neighbouring places with the advowson of Colton Church, on Humphrey Mynors and the others. Sir George died in a.d. 1548. Sir William Gres- ley married Catherine, daughter of Sir Edward Aston, of Tixall : Strype’s Memorials show that he was knighted on October 2nd, 1553, the day after the Queen’s Coronation, ^^when the Knights of the Carpet were dubbed before her, at the Palace at AVestminster, in her presence-chamber, under the cloth of estate, by the Earl of Arundel, who had her Highness’s commission to execute the same.” Sir William’s name stands 32nd upon the list. In 1562 we find him serving as High Sheriff for Staffordshire, and in the same year offering to sell the Manors of Brasborough and Carleby, part of the de Wasteneys land in Lincolnshire, to Sir AVilliam Cecil. He took active part in the wars of the Nether- lands. At his death in 1573 he left three sons, Tliomas, Hastings, and Simon, besides four AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 123 daughters, Jane, Mary, Elizabeth, and Grace, wife of Sir Thomas Wolseley, Knight. By fine of I. Philip and Mary (1554 a.d.) Sir William secured from David Cawarden, and Matilda his wife, 2 messuages, 60 acres of land, 15 of meadow, 20 of pasture, 10 of wood, and 3d. of rent in Blithbury, Hill Ridware, and Colton for £40. Tliis j)robably included, as we before noticed, the small holding in Colton which had belonged to the main line of the Mavesyns. In 4 Eliz. (1562 a.d.) Sir William, by another fine, acfpiired a moiety of some 200 acres in Blithbury and Colton. Thomas Gresley succeeded his father, not only in the family estates, but in a.d. 1583 in the office of High Sheriff for Staffordshire, and later on, in 1591 , for Derbyshire ; being a third time in office when Queen Elizabeth’s death took place, he had to meet and welcome King James on his way from Scotland to take possession of the English Crown, and was knighted by him at Worksop, in Notting- hamshire, April 20th, 1603. His mother, Catherine Gresley, seems to have had her dower secured on Colton, for, holding land here valued at £10 per annum, she was assessed for two light horsemen in the second payment of the subsidy granted to Queen Elizabeth in 1576 ad. {vide Glover’s Visita- tion Book). Sir Thomas was twice married, and by his first wife Catherine, daughter of Sir Thomas Walsing- hani,* had five sons and three daughters, Henry * The Walsingham arms are Paly of six, argent and sable, a 124 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON (died, aged four years, in 1588), George, John, William, and Walsingham, Catherine (who was thrice married), Dorothy, and Catherine (?) By liis second wife, Mary, widow of Henry Paston and daughter of Sir Richard Southwell, of Wood Rising, Norfolk, he left no family. His own death occurred in A D. 1610. In 1587 (29 Eliz.) a fine was levied between Ed- mund Walsingham, Edward Gresley, Simon Gres- ley, Thomas Sanders, complainants ; and Thomas Gresley, armiger, deforciant ; of the manor of Colton, and of 20 messuages, 10 cottages, a water- mill, 500 acres of land, 200 of meadow, 400 of 2 )asture, 100 of wood, 40 of furze and heath, and 40s. rent here, and in Colwich, Admaston, Blith- bury and Loxley. Sir Thomas remitted his rights to the comiJainants for £1,000. George Gresley, the eldest surviving son, was created a baronet by King James, only a few days after the institution of that order, his name standing 28th u 2 )on the roll ; and there are further signs of his attendance at Court, for he was one of the ten baronets who carried bannerolls at the funeral of Henry, Prince of Wales, in 1612. (NichoFs Pro- gresses of King James.) In the third year of King Charles I. he sat in Parliament for Newcastle-under-Lyne, and was High Slieriff for Derbyshire Avhen tlie CiAul War broke out in 1645 a.d. foss gules. The family came out of Kent. Catherine’s grand- father had been Lieutenant of the Tower of London. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 125 His wife Susan was the daughter of Sir Humphrey Ferrers, of Tam worth Castle, a family already related to the Gresleys, as we have before noticed. With this man our present interest in the Gresley family comes to an end, for early in the 17th century Sir Thomas and his son George sold the whole estate of Colton, including the old hall, the manor^ and the advowson to their relative. Sir Walter Aston, of Tixall, for the sum of £16,000. The fine, dated 7 James 1 (1610 a.d.). Trinity Term, is as follows: — Final agreement made in the Court of the Lord the King, at Westminster, between Walter Aston, Knight, plaintiff, and Thomas Gresley, Knight, and Mary his wife, and George Gresley, Esquire, and Susan his wife, deforciants, of the Manor of Colton, with the appur- tenances, and of 22 messuages, 4 cottages, 20 tofts, 2 water mills, 22 gardens, 22 orchards, 1,100 acres of land, 400 acres of meadow, 1,300 acres of ]}asture, 500 acres of wood, 1 00 acres of heath and furze, common of pasture for all cattle, and 26s. 8d. of rent, with the appurtenances in Colton, Nevvland, Bly tilbury, Admaston, Hill and Mavesyn Kidware, Byshton and Colwich ; and also of a free fishery in the water of Trent, and of the advowson of the church of Colton, and of the moiety of all, and of all kinds of tythes whatsoever, issuing, growing, or remaining in Colton. Sir Thomas and Mary, George and Susan Gresley, acknowledged the said manor to be the right of Walter, and quit claimed them to Walter Aston and his heirs for ever, for 126 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON which Walter Aston gave them £1,000.” [This sum was, ill fact, hut oiie-sixteeiitli part of the price paid.]* In 1611 A.D Sir AWilter paid Thomas Tooth £1,000, in the cliurch porch pf Colton, for a certain messuage and lands in Blythhuiy,t part of the Colton Manor, which he had lately purchased of Sir ddiomas and Greorge Gresley. (v. Appendix.) [The Old Park” passed hy the sale of the manor to the Astons, but not the Little Hay” manor; nor the “Boughey” Hall and^^Llount” properties. The Hamley Mill seems to have been in existence, lieing one of the two water-mills enumerated in the tine, but no mention is made of the windmill of Richard II. As time.] The arms of tlie Gresleys are “ vaire ermine and gules” — i.e.^ alternate shields of red and ermine. Colton Hall, the principal Staffordshire home of * Sir Simon Degge’s letter to the third Lord Aston, contain- ing many particulars of his grandfather, the first lord. t “ More accurately,” part of the Gresley property, but nq part of the actual Colton Manor? AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 127 the Gresleys for so many years, when it passed into the hands of JSir AValter Aston, was an ancient house of very considerable size, containing* 80 rooms, 52 of which, according to tradition,^ were bedrooms. Here the younger members of the Aston family frequently resided during their father’s second absence in Spain, and here Sir Walter Aston was himself living in a.d. 1628, as can be proved by his letters to Lord Conway, the King’s Secretary of State, which are dated from this place. t To the great loss of 0 olton, this grand old house was burnt down through the carelessness of a servant in the latter part of Charles I.’s reign. Nor were any efforts made to rebuild it, so far as we have been able to ascertain ; partly, no doubt, be- cause of the then embarrassed condition of the Aston fortunes, partly because their older residence, Tixall Hall, standing in the immediate neighbourhood, must have made any such effort the less necessary. Of the original manor house, exclusive of offices and outbuildings, there are no remains above ground, the late Thomas Upton, an intelligent man, who formerly worked upon tlie Colton Hall Farm, used to repeat what his father had told him, that it had as many windows as there were days in the year ” (?) That the present farmhouse had been considerably * This agrees well enough with “ Pennant’s ” account of Lord Aston’s old house, Colton Hall (vide his journey from London to Chester, S.L. ), as well as with the notes in Erdswicke’s Stafford- shire (Harwood’s edition). t Sir Robert Fanshawe was a friend of the Astons, and several of his poems were written in this house, 128 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON enlarged, liaviiig been the laundry of the old Hall, which stood on the garden (Ca warden) springs’’ side of tlie existing building ; and that he himself was present when, in digging the ground close to the old granary, yet standing, tliey came upon a flight of stone stairs, evidently an entrance to the cellars of the former house ; and went some way down them, until recalled by the then tenant, which stairs, having been fllled up, were still in situ.’’ The old Hall stood in the near park.” Evidently as in the Aston’s house at Tixall, only the lower po]*tion of the building was masonry, the upper stories being of timber ; in which case very little would have survived the fire of Charles I.’s time, to be again employed in the present house and outbuildings. Excepting, therefore, the well, the stairs now fllled in, ijossibly part of the cellarage, and some portions of offices in the present house and granary, Colton Hall has left no traces. In the field called the ‘^Dog-kennels,” at the east end of the marsh, there are (or lately were) signs of tlie old kennels, some brickwork remaining in the brook, where the hounds were washed. The disused road, now called ‘‘Sheep-close” Lane, leading from “the Bank Top,” at the end of “ Hollow ” Lane, to the cottages and outbuildings which belong to Colton Hall Earm, was the former a})proach to Colton Hall, dflie present name is taken from the adjoining field. During the long drought in 1894 A.D., the marks of walls, leading down pro- balfly from tlie old house toAvards the entrance gate, Avere to be seen clearly enough in the grass, on tlie AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 129 south side of the present approach to the farm. It is interesting to observe from an old M8. in the Salt Library, describing Ridgley as situated “on the south-west bank of the Trent over against Colton Park,” that the former demesne may have extended at one time to the river, its traces reappear in the names of some of the neighbouring fields, such, for instance, as “ The Big Park, The Little Park, The Hilly Park, The Upper Park, The Mare Park,” liesides two other meadows, which are still known as the “Lower Park ” meadow and the “Dog Kennels,” already mentioned. An ancient map in the Salt Library contains the Hall and Park very clearly laid down, but part of the “ Ashley-Hay ” and “ Hazle- hurst ” woods intervene between the Trent and the south side of the Park — whether they were sub- sequently inclosed within it remains uncertain. The number of swans kept by the de Wastineys and their successors {vide John de CaldwelPs roll, and the fore- going trials for robbing the aery) must have been a great ornament, adding a further charm to the natu- ral beauty of the site ; a beauty which even the rail- way, quarry, and mill have failed to destroy entirely^ That it was valuable hawking-ground we may gather from the name “ Hern’s” or “ Heron’s ” field, where a small brook formerly ran — now sometimes corrupted into “ Heaines ” Leasow. The Hazlehurst Wood may be traced on both sides of the river, in ‘ ^ Long Hurst” and “Booth Hurst ” meadows. Towards the north the demesne extended to, and certainly included, “ The Old” and the “ Hurst ” Woods, the 130 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON present “ Old Wood” farm house Ijeing the keeper’s lodge ; the fact that the little brook, running under tlie rising ground on which the house stands, is called “ Kee})er’s Brook,” confirms this view. Thus far, tlien, for Colton Hall. The family into wliose hands the estate now passed traced their descent from Roger, son of Ralph de Aston, and the first of the name of much note in Staffordshire, who, in the latter part of the thirteenth century, received from Roger de Molend, Bishop of Coventry and Lichfield, a grant of lands at Bishton and Haywood, besides the seneschalship of Eccleshall castle. His descendants continued to flourish at Haywood, and afterwards at Tixall, until the time of Sir Edward Aston, who married Amicia, daughter of Sir Thomas Lucy, of Charlecote in Warwickshire, and dying in a.d. 1597, left a large but encumbered property to liis son Walter, then only 17 years of age. Walter Aston rose quickly into favour at the court of James I., was created a Knight of the Bath,* when the king’s eldest son Henry was jDro- claimed Prince of Wales, advanced to a baronetcy in A.i). 1611, and, a few years later, succeeded Sir William Godolphin as a gentleman of the king’s privy chamber. In 1619 he went as ambassador to Spain, where he was concerned with the Earl of Bristolf in negotiating Prince Charles’s marriage * This dignity cost him the large sum of £1,000. Drayton, tlie poet, acted as his esquire on the occasion. t The Earl of Bristol was the envoy extraordinary — Sir Walter the resident ambassador, and representative of England, AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 131 with the Infanta — an honourable charge enough, but very ill-suited to a fortune already encuml^ered by attendance at court, and by a disposition naturally lavish. The heavy expenses entailed by his embassy were never sufficiently repaid, so that as early as the year a.d. 1622 we find him com- pelled to sell a large part of his estate in order to raise £30,000. After spending six years abroad Sir Walter re- turned to England with his wife and children (one daughter Honoria had died in Spain), and in a.d. 1627 was raised to the Scotch peerage by King Charles I. as Lord Aston of Forfar; besides re- ceiving the nominal charge of the royal mulberry gardens in London,* * vith a pension of £100 a year for liis own life and that of his eldest son, although these appear to have been given only in answer to several urgent appeals at court. He writes from Colton to Lord Conway that same year saying that the late duke (Buckingham) had procured him a promise from the king of £14,000, to be paid within two years, a promise which the king had that summer assured him should be fulfilled out of the parks belonging to the race of Tutbury and others ; he therefore encloses a petition to that effect and entreats the Secretary to forward it. at Madrid. The Duke of Buckingham, writing from Spain to King James, refers to Sir Walter as “Wat Aston.” {Vide State papers, Domestic series.) * This office carried with it a house in London, probably on the site of the present Buckingham Palace. 182 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON £4,000, he adds, is due to liim from the Exchequer, wliicli, though it were paid at once, together with tlie £14,000, His Majesty’s gift, he would yet be worse in his estate by his journey to Spain aboAm £12.000. He relies on Lord Conway’s sympathy for a gentleman on tlie point of perishing by His Majesty’s service.” (State Papers, Domestic Series B.M./ Tlie fines of the following yearf (1629 a.d.) witness to his distress for money, Avhen, together with Walter his son and heir, Devereux Aston, and William Aston, Esquires, he conveys the manors of Colton, Tixall, Haywood and Brocton, Avith 20 messuages, 800 acres of land, and the adAmAA^sons of Colton and Tixall, to Sir Francis Cottington, Kt., Sir Hichard Tichliorne, Kt., Thomas Crompton, and Bichard Weston, Esquires, and to the heirs of Sir Francis, for £400. Security, Ave should suppose, for a loan of that amount. From A.D. 1635 to 1638 Ijord Aston again acted as ambassador at Madrid, Avhere he stood high in favour Avith the Spanish king, Philip IV. ; his return being no doubt hastened liy rapidly failing health, as we gather from a letter to his newly-married (laughter-in-laAV Catherine, Avife of Herbert Aston, in Avliich lie again alludes to his embarrassed for- tunes, and speaks of being still a poor suitor at court, * Vvie Appendix. t Feet of Fines, 5 Charles 1 (Melons), Recoi'd Office. I . 1 ' Walter, 1st Lord Aston. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 138 .suffering’ from a painful bodily infirmity.* He died in the month of August, 1689. A likene.ss of Lord Aston, taken from a miniature by Zucchero, belong- ing to the Clifford family, may be seen in the history of Tixall. It closely re.sembles the picture here given, from a print of the original belonging to the Blounts. There is another of his portraits, painted on panel, which hangs at the foot of the staircase at Blithfield Hall. The following curious and accurate description of this well-known courtiei* comes from a letter written by his friend. Sir Simon Degge, to the third Lord Aston : ‘ ^ F or his person, it was very comely, he went very upright and straight ; his skin very pure, all but his face, which was of a brown, ruddy complexion ; his hair a yellow red, his beard a little sadde ; he had something a high nose and a rough voice, but could liave spoken very well ; no drinker or swearer, of an affable courteous behaviour, and a virtuous worthy gentle- man for ought that ever I saw or knew to the contrary.” By his wife Grertrude, daughter of Sir Ralph Sadler, the wealthy minister of Queen Elizabeth, Lord A.ston left three sons, Walter, Herbert and John, and as many daughters ; Frances married Sir William Persall, of Canwell, Stafford- shire ; Gertrude married Henry Thinielby ; and * Vide letter to his newly-married daughter-in-law. [There is a copy of a deed, dated about this time, 2 Charles 1 (1627), in the S.L , whereby Richard Robinson, of Coulton, is bound to J ohn Alden, Esqre, in the sum of £300.] 134 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Constance, wife of Walter Fowler, of 8t. Thomas’ Priory, near Stafford. Tlie arms of Sadler, his wife’s family are thus given, or a lion rampant per fesse-azure and gules.” ♦ Walter Aston succeeded his father in the barony and estates, his mother’s jointure being secured ou Colton. The succession would necessarily involve considerable outlay ; and £800 was obtained apparently from his wife’s family on the security of 700 acres of the church manor here, not* Colton Hall, to judge by a later fine). Feet of Fines, Stafford, Hilary, 15 Ch. I. (1640 a.d.). Between Richard Weston, Kt., one of the Barons of the Exchequer, Thomas Crompton, Esquire, and Thomas Aston, Esquire, plaintiffs; and Walter Lord Aston, deforciant, of the Manor of Colton, otherwise Coulton, with six messuages, eight cottages, one water-mill, one dove-house, 350 acres of land, 40 acres of meadow, 150 acres of pasture, 20 acres of wood, 100 acres of furze and heath, 40 acres of moor, and '\‘mew of Frankpledge^ with the * The notice of one dove-cote, and of a single water-mill, confirms this. Compare, too, the details given in the later tine, of 1656 A.D. t “ Frank, or ‘ free,’ pledge, is a corruption of ‘ Frith.’ or ‘ peace,’ pledge. It meant originally the view, or examination, of the ‘ Peace-pledges.’ Mutual guarantee hy tens being the Saxon rule through the country ; so that every man, unless specially privileged, had nine such guarantees, who were bound to produce him. Latterly, view of Frank-pledge was an enquiry by the Stewards’ Court into the general good conduct of those AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 185 appurtenances in Colton, Blythburie, and Admaston, and of the advowson of the church of Colton. Walter acknowledged the said manor to be the right of the said Richard, and quitclaimed the same to the plaintiffs and to the heirs of Richard, and for this he received £800. Warned by his father’s example, and under more favourable circumstances. Lord Aston might by prudent management have freed the property from incumbrances ; for he does not appear to have been wanting in ability ; but the outbreak of the Civil War, urging him at once* * into the Royalist ranks, must have rendered any such hopes abortive, had he cherished them. It became necessary to raise further supplies on his reversion of the Colton lands (in 1644 a.d.)* — whilst in the July of the following year, that is to say immediately after the defeat of Marston Moor, when the tide was turning heavily against the King, we find him driven to pledge a jewel set with diamonds, valued at £1,500, which Philip IVth, King of Spain, had presented to Lord Aston when he was relinquishing his second embassy. This must be the jewel of which his father wrote in a letter to the Earl of Portland, from London, March, 1688 a.d., ‘‘for yr better understanding of living within the jurisdiction of the Court Leet, and for receiving presentments of any matters which it was empowered to judge, and punish by fine, or otherwise.” (u. Kemble, Saxons in England, 1349, and Jones’s Bradford-on- A von, p. 80.) * Vide appendix, for money raised in 1644 a.d., by an annuity to Herbert Aston on the “Old and Hurst Woods<” 186 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON the trew estate of such things as are att present in my possession. In the iron chest are jewels and some moneys belonging to my dawter Gertrude Aston, which I had in trust to put out for her maintenance, for which she hath a bond of <£1,000 from me acknowledging ye debt. 1 desire that the sayd iron chest may be delivered her locked up, as I shall leave it.” For this jewel, now restored to him by his sister, as well as for the security of a legacy of £500, due to her under her father’s will. Lord Aston made over to Gertrude all his rights in Colton for a term of 99 years, to commence after their mother’s life interest had expired, unless the legacy should be paid by the next St. Thomas’ day, or, failing that, the jewel given up to her absolutely. How the matter was arranged we have no means of ascertain- ing, except thus far, that the Colton lands were not forfeited. Lord Aston shared in the memorable defence of Lichfield, which was one of the last garrisons that held out for the King, and only surrendered after a siege of 19 weeks, July, 1 646 a. d. His letters to his wife (Lady Mary Weston, daughter of the Earl of Portland), written during the siege do great honour to his memory” ; one of them concludes thus : ‘ This comfort I hope you Avill always have, that 1 shall in no act do anything unworthy of myself, ’t As a Royalist and a Roman * Vide J iigestre deed, appendix, t Vide note to Tixall letters on the character of the second Lord Aston. AND OF THE DE WASTENEY8 FAMILY. Ie37 Catholic, he could look for small favour from the Parliament, and his estate was in consequence further reduced by fines and confiscations, as it had previously suffered from his devoted assistance to the royal cause. How great this was is acknow- ledged by the King himself, who writes ‘ ^ that the worst of all his trials, and the most keenly felt, is his inability to make any recompense for all that Lord Aston and others had done and suffered for him.” At this time John and Gertrude Aston appear to have been living with their mother (for of Herbert we must speak later). Lady Aston’s property in Colton had been laid under a heavy annual fine of £264, subsequently lowered to £220 by the Parlia- mentary Commissioners. The sequestration began six }'ears after her husband’s death, and amounted to two-thirds of the whole estate.* We find her petition- ing against the letting of her Colton land from Lady- day to one Robert Robotham, for she would then lose the money spent in manuring and sowing the same the previous summer, as well as the crop of wheat and rye sown in September. She states that sixteen of her grandchildren were dependent upon her for most of their living, and prays that she may either continue holding her own land, or else have satisfaction for her outlay and leave to reap her corn. In the same year (a.d. 1650) this Colton property was let for £365 by the sequestrators, who report * Vide appendix. SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON i;38 that £140 liacl been allowed hitherto for the inaiii- teiianee of the three younger children, then grown up, Ijeing the amount of two annuities settled by their father. Sir Walter, on Hierbert and John of £50 annually, and £40 on Gertrude Aston.* The Com- mittee, considering they were all recusants, acted with severity, and resolved that only two-thirds of this amount should be given in future to the three children, and the remaining third to Lady Aston. But the matter did not rest here, for in 1652 it was again investigated by the Commissioners, who report to London that they had examined on oath William Collins,*!' yeoman, of Colton, who affirmed that about one year before the battle of Edgehill he had paid £25 to John Aston, for one-half of his annuity, at his mother’s command.” Herbert, John, and Gertrude made oath to having received their money regularly between the time of their father’s death and the secpiestration. They were still to meet with further delay of justice, however, for in a.d. 1655 we hear of their petitioning again for the third part of their annuity, the share allowed them as recusants, which request was granted. The money levied by Parliament on Colton and some of the neighbouring villages during the Civil War, was ordered to be paid to Capt. John Bowyer, and then to Col. Chadwick for their regiments. * Vide appendix. t Vide appendix. His name occurs again in Lord Aston’s loan, 1659, a.d., and in the early parish registers. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 139 The fines of 1656 a.d. show that Lord Aston raised £1,000 by pledging the larger moiety of Colton manor, rather more than 1,500 acres, and two water-mills, &c.., we may conclude from the last entry that the Handey mill was then in use. Feet of Fines, Trinity, 1656 a.d. Between Baptist, Viscount Campden, Patricias, Viscount Chaworth Plaintiffs 5 and Walter Aston, Baronet, Lord Aston! of Forfar, and Walter Aston, h Deforciants; Pisquire - - - - -j of the Manor of Colton, &c., and of 12 messuages, 12 cottages, 12 gardens, 12 orchards, two water- mills, 1,000 acres of land, 200 acres of meadow, and and 300 acres of pasture in Colton. Walter Lord Aston, and Walter Aston, acknowledged the plaintiffs rights, and (quitclaimed the lands to them, and to the heirs of Baptist for ever ; and for this they received from Bajitist and Patricius, £1,000. In 1658 Lord Aston sold Colton Hall, now ruined by the fire, with the Old Wood” and the larger qiart of his land here, together with the Trent water- mill, to William Chetwynd, Esquire, of Hagley Park, the founder of the Chetwynd* charity, son of the Brist(jl merchant, and nephew of Walter of Rugeley; most of the tenements in Colton to their several * V, Mr. Chetwynd Stapleton’s exhaustive account of the Chetwynds of Ingestre. 140 «OME ACCOUNT OF COLTON occu])ant.s, and the royalty and advowsoii to his brother Herbert Aston, then residing* in Colton. With this sale of Colton Hall, together with the manorial rights and advowsbn, our direct interest in the fortunes of Walter, second Lord Aston, ends; 1 laving followed them thus far, however, in adverse days, we may be justified in showing something of their more prosperous close, especially as the follow- ing curious description of his home life has been thought worthy of publication by the Hist. MSS. Commission. To understand it one must remember that Lord Aston, who had lived at the Court of Spain during his father’s embassy, seems to have imbibed some of the ideas of the Spanish grandees. Soon after the restoi-ation he succeeded, on the death of his maternal uncle, Ralph Sadler, to the lordship of Standon, Hertfordshire, and there began liis magnificent way of living. He had 101 23ersons in his family, the table was served with three courses, each of 20 dishes, brought in by 20 men, who stamped up the great stair like thunder at every course (I) my lord had four servants behind his own chair. The servants all dined together in the liall, and what was left being thrown together into a tub, two men bore it on their s4ioulders to the court gate, where every day 40 or 50 j^oor people were served with it. When my lord did not go liawking in the afternoon, he always played at ombre* with his two sons for an hour ; and at four * A kind of ‘“quadrille” — played with cards by three persons. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 141 o’clock retired to a covered seat in his vineyard ; there he sat alone and none durst approach him ; at 5 o’clock liis chariot, which was made so narrow that none could sit l)y him (!), witli a pair of his six g*rey Flanders mares, took a ‘ trole ’ about the Park for d or 6 miles, he returned at 7 and at 8 would be in ])ed. He always lay in lied without pillow, bolster, or night- cap ; winter and summer he rose at 4, and entertained himself with books, until it was time to go a-hunting or hawking at wild diuFs. He would never allow any but hunted venison at his talile. hi very day but Sunday one buck was killed at least, but most commonly a brace. He never made, or returned anv visit : the court and address of that «/ county (Herts) being made to him. Thus my lord lived, till his son prevailed on him to return to Tixall. This was a great cross to liis lady, who liked tliis wav of living, and now, l^eing so far removed from her dear daughter Southcote (wife of Sir John Southcote), she grew melanclioly, and lost her wits, keeping almost perpetual silence, and refusing nourishment. Not long after his lordship died (1678 a.d.), aged 69, and his corpse was attended from Tixall to Stafford by about 1,000 people.” (The writer of this account had resided at Standon for three or four months every year when a lad. ) Herbert, the ambassador’s second son, had acted as his father’s secretary in Spain ; and after their return from Madrid married Catherine, daughter of Sir John Thimelby, Bart., of Irnham, in Lincoln- 142 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON shire.* The marria^(>, which proved in every way a most happy one, liad lon^ been ur^ed upon li(‘r bi'other ])y his sister Constance, who was ardently attached to them both, tier letters written to her brother from Colton, on the subject, are to be seen in the Tixall Collection, and are very curious. t She dwells mu(*h on her fear that Lord Aston would not be able to provide sufficiently for his son to satisfy the Thimelby family ; but says of her friend — She is so rich in herself that none can be poore that has the possession of so ^ unvallewable ’ a jewel. 0, ’tis a thousand pities you should be parted, she is so just for you and you so just for her, that may I l^e miserable if I do not think you will be the happiest lovers in the world ; ” and de- clares that if her father cannot find some fortune for his son to marry upon, “ all the world could not have invented a more killing news than this will be to me.” What she so earnestly and, as it is proved, wisely desired, was brought about in a.d. 1688.J AVe have her father’s letter of that date to his new daughter-in-law, saying— ‘‘ You come into a family, although united in true affection unto one another, yet divided in the (condition of our fortune. I can- not promise you success, for I am not master of it, * The arms of Thimelby are “argent, 3 pales and 4 mullets in bend sable. t Vidp Appendix. t On St. Simon and St. Jude’s day, October 28th. (Vide Tixall letters.) r-* \ \ V. f ' .S'. { - > ■ '• i-£ t! 'iUVa ••. it-f ■ V ' :^. Old Belamore from N.IV. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 14^^ lint niy utmost endeavour shall not be wantino^.” Loixl Aston (*ould only make over to his son a small pi’operty in Colton ; and here Herbert Aston built himself and his wife a house, which he named Bell- amore, because it was finished by the benevolence and assistance of his friends” {Bell amore^ Italian for good love”) and* very probably with a further reference to his wife, as we gather from one of the Tixall letters. The house, which is built of stone, with a deep porch and the usual mullioned windows, of that date, is still inhabited, but its proportions have been much injured by the removal of the upper storey, and the original gabled roof, and by the addition of some unsightly buttresses and an outbuilding. t A small, and distant, view of the original Bellamore house, showing the gables, occurs in a drawing at the Salt Library. The stone removed was employed in making the boundary wall it is said. In the old hall Miss Oldham kept * Not ^eWamour (as if derived from the French), althougli that form has of late years been generally adopted. The original spelling of Bellamore given by Herbert Aston and his wife, both highly educated people, and the builders of the house, ought to be retained. It is a mistake, also, to speak of Bell- amore as a distinct district of the parish ; it has no claim what- ever to be so considered ; what is now called “ Bellamore End ” was always the Town {i.e., Colton) end, (Vestry Book, 1804 a d. — “ Bellamore ” was only the name Herbert Aston gave his house (c. 1639 a.d.), nor should the Bishton road be called Bell- amour-lane, as it has been wrongly named in the late map. t The views here given are from photographs by the Rev. C. F. L. Barnwell. 144 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON lier day scliool for tlie Colton ^irls for many years. Sir Simon De^^e’s account of llellamore is as follows: — “ Tliere is now a third hall in Colton, called Bellamore, Ijiiilt l)y Herl)ert Aston, Esqre, brother to ye Lord Walter Aston ; which was so called because ye same was built by ye love and kindness of his friends, by way of Ijenevolence.” Here Herbert Aston and his wife lived happily together, beloved and respected by their children, and by all who knew them, escaping, in great mea- sui’e perhaps from their straitened means, the worst dangers and anxieties of that trying time. Their names occur, when in 1650 a.d. Humphrey Webl) and Thomas Butler pay £60 as plaintiffs, in a fine with Lord Aston and Mary his wife, Herbert Aston, Esquire, and Katherine his wife, Robert Robotham, Esquire, and Simon Degge, gentleman, as de- forciants, of 20 acres of land, 10 of meadow, and 10 of pasture in (kdton, the land being pledged, or sold, it is not certain whicli, for that amount. It apjjears tliat Herl)ert had received with his wife an annuity of £80 a year, secured on her father’s ])ro])erty at Irnham, Lincolnshire. We find one William Wardle petitioning the sequestrators in 1652* for powers to examine into his claim on the Irnliam estate, then under seques- tration, for this rent- charge, which he had bought of Herbert Aston, and into its former payment to himself, and that liis own statement on oath might * Vide appendix. Royalist compositions. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 145 be taken by the Lincolnshire Commissioners and reported to London. Six years later, as before noticed, Herbert Aston made some small additions to his Bellamore land, when the Colton property was sold by his brother. In A.D. 1655, Catherine his wife was taken from him when only forty years of age. The account of her deathbed, written by her husband, is sufficient how strong and deep their attachment was, and how good a Christian she must have been.* Were more needed, one sentence from a letter of her sister Winefred to Herbert Aston might be (quoted here. She (Catherine) never writ without this con- juration, Be sure you infinitely love and honore Mr. Aston, who makes me the happiest creature in the world.” Of their children, John, Herbert, Walter, Catherine, Gertrude, Frances, Mary, and Constance, we know but little, except from the letters of their aunt, Winnifred Thimelby, superior of a nunnery at Louvain, in Flanders, who kept up a constant correspondence with her brother-in-law and his family, to all of whom she was much attached, t to her care Herbert Aston entrusted two * Appendix to Bellamore letters, t Expressions like these occur continually in her corres- pondence. Writing to Herbert Aston, June 24, 1677, she says, “ All of Bellamore may doe what they will, for t’is impossible to mistrust kyndness ther.” At another time, writing to Herbert Aston about his daughter Katherine, then at Louvain, she speaks of her as “ always doeing what she shud doe, yet for all her perfection, the name of her 146 SO^IE ACCOUNT OF COLTON of his daughters for education. Katherine, the eldest, subsequently became a member of this con- vent, in which another of her aunts — Gertrude Aston, widow of Henry Thinielb}^ — had also taken the veil. Thus, as might be supposed, letters were con- tinually passing between Bellamore and Louvain, which are marked by every token of mutual respect and affectionate interest. Writing on one occasion to his daughter, Herbert Aston concludes thus : — Though I was but a few days at Bellamore, being forced to go into Gloucestershire, yet I was with my Lady Bagot and cousin Wells. They and all at Colton, George Wright* * most extraordinarily, present their services to you. I have set Bellamore, and £20 a year next the house. 1 sold likewise my horses and four cows ; and my house is likeh^ to be better looked to and 1 pleased, since I am here childless, to be servantless, and houseless, and there- by more careless, but not one whit of you and A oiir three sisters, — you are all to my wish and satisfac- tion, and therefore be sure of the utmost endeavour for you of your affectionate father.” ( Vide Appendix, j brother John, or Bellamore, brings fresh blood into her cheeks which witnesses she is alive still.” And in a letter to Herbert, expressing her anxious desire to have another of his daughters entrusted to her care, she writes, “ Keat (sic.) gives so great, so very great, a satisfaction to all that everyone desires more of the broode.” * One of the older tenants holding land in Colton, under the Aston’s {^vide deeds in the appendix.) AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 147 Towards the close of his life, Mr. Herbert Aston narrowly escaped from being involved in the meshes of the Popish Plot of a.u. 1680, for which Lord Stafford was beheaded.* The account is specially interesting, for it appears that they attempted to make Bellamore the scene of the supposed conspiracy, and we give it therefore at length. John Morrall, a barber, declared on the trial of Lord Stafford “ that Mr. Dugdale, on the 6th of August was a twelve- month, sent for me to the White Horse in Ridgley, and there, when I came to him, told me that I knew as much of the plot as he. I told him I was innocent of the thing. He swore, with a great oath, 1 knew as much as he- Then I told him, if he knew no more of it than I did, he knew no more than my Lord Mayor’s great horse did. Then he took me aside : ‘ Come,’ said he, ^ You are a poor man and live poorly, I can put you into a way whereby you can live gallantly : I will give you £50 in hand if so be you will swear against Mr. Howard, Sir James Simmons, Mr. Herbert Aston, and other (Roman Catholic) gentlemen of the country, that they were at such meetings at Mr. Herbert Aston’s (Bellamore) upon the conspiracy of the plot.’ ” Nothing material was at the trial objected against Morrall’s character or evidence ; whereas Dugdale ( the companion of the infamous Oates, Bedloe, and Dangerfield), had been * Vide account of Lord Stafford’s trial, November, 1680 a.d. (S.L.). A paper in Mr. Whitgreave’s possession, believed to be in the handwriting of Lord Aston’s agent (his successor), brings some very weighty and specific charges against Dugdale. 148 80ME ACCOUNT OF COLTON convicted of eml)ezzling tlie men’s wages when acting as Lord Aston’s agent, and had sworn to he revenged on Lord Aston for discharging him, as was proved by Sir Walter llagot and Mr. (diillips, the Rector of Tixall, to whom Dugdale had formerly denied all knowledge of the })lot. The death of Herbert Aston occurred early in a.d. 1689."* The eldest of his sons, John, appears to have taken an active part in Colton affairs, for we find liim serving in 1693 as overseer of the poor, and in 1692, 1706, t and again in 1719 as churchwarden. In 1691 (2 Wm. and Marv) a fine was levied between John Aston, Esquire, and Thomas Doxey, plaintiffs ; and Richard Wiggin, Charles Wiggin, and Simon Wiggin, deforciants, of one messuage, 60 acres of land, 10 acres of meadow, and 40 of pasture, common of pasture for all cattle, and common of turbary, in Colton. Richard, Charles, and Simon surrendered all rights to Jolin and his heirs for ever, receiving £160. John Aston died childless, the last survivor of Herbert’s family, J in 1724 ; but though buried here, there is no monument to them in Colton Church. As tliey left no direct heirs, the * The parish register gives July Uth, 1689, as the date of Herbert Aston’s burial. t Vide an old vestry book. j: He was buried here December 30th, 1724 a.d, ; Mary Aston was buried April 11, 1704; Frances Aston, June 20, 1709; Herbert, April 16, 1712; Walter, July 6, 1715. Katherine died in the nunnery when quite young to the great grief of her aunt the abbess Winefrid {vide appendix). AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 149 Colton property went back to the elder branch of the family ; and having descended to James the fifth and last Lord Aston of the main line, passed to his two daughters, by his wife Lady Barbara Talliot, daughter of George, 14th Earl of Shrewsbury. The Honble. Mary Aston, the elder of these co- heiresses, was married at Worksop, in Nottingham- shire, A.D. 1766, to her cousin Sir Walter Blount, of Mawley Hall and Soddington, in Worcestershire, and inherited the Colton estate ; the younger, Barbara, married a Clifford, and carried into that family the Tixall and Haywood properties A private Act was passed through Parliament in the 1 0th year of George III. 1770 a.d. ^‘For establishing and confirming all sales and divisions made and to be made hy virtue of the powers con- tained in the several marriage settlements of Sir Walter Blount, Baronet, and the Honourable Dame Mary, his wife, and of the Honourable Thomas Clifford and the Honourable Barbara, his wife.” Amongst other Colton property, the Manor or Lord- ship of Colton, the lands commonly known Ijy the name of Bellamore Farm,” situate and being in Colton, and then late in the occupation of Stych, widow, are mentioned ; also the farm known as ^‘Newlands,” occupied by Thomas Hicken; to- gether with another farm in Colton, held l)y Thomas Smith — meaning that at the Newlands generally known as Ash’s Farm,” from the late tenant of the Bonney family. It appears from this Act that most of the Aston land, including 150 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Tixall, fell to Barbara Clifford’s share ; Lady Blount taking the personalty, with Colton manor and lands. Tlie arms of the Astons are ‘‘argent, a fess sable, in chief three lozenges of the last.” Sir Walter Blount, in light of his wife the owner of Bellamore and of the remaining Aston property in Colton, was descended from the Norman Lord of Guisnes, surnamed “Le Blond,” and numbered among his ancestors that “ warlike Blount,” cele- bratt;d hj Shakespeare in Henry /F., who, when sent with gracious offers from the king to the rebel camp at Shrewsbury, is thus greeted by Hotspur : — “ Welcome Sir Walter Blount! and would to God You were of our determination I Some of us love you well ; and even those some Envy your great deservings and good name Because you are not of our quality. But stand against us as an enemy.” Being “ semblaliy furnished like the king himself,” he was afterwards slain in the battle by the Earl of Douglas. The Lords j\rountjoy, before referred to. Modern Bellamour, 1840. Old Belamore, 1840. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 151 were a branch of the same distinguished line. Four sons were born of this marriage with Mary Aston — Walter Edward, who died in infancy ; Walter, his father’s successor in the baronetcy and Worcester- shire estates, born 1788 ; Edward, born July, 1779 ; and George, born 1781. After her husband’s death Lady Blount frequently resided in Colton, and built (circa a.d. 1796) the larger house at Bellamore for her second son, Mr. Edward Blount. The two houses, standing side by side, suggest a curious contrast between the style of accommodation required by a country gentleman about the middle of the seventeenth century and that which has become common in the nineteenth, for some additions have been made 1o the modern house since it was first built : notably the removal of the room which served the Blounts as a chapel, and the building of the present dining-room with the story above it on the east side, which is not shewn in the accompanying photograph. In A.D. 1805, the Honble Mary Lady Blount was burnt to death, by a* spark from the fire falling upon her dress, when on a visit to her youngest son’s house at Basford. About twenty years after- wards her son, Mr. Edward Blount, sold the Bell- amore property to Mr. J. Oldham, f a retired Indian judge, of the Bengal presidency, at whose death in 1857, it was purchased liy the late owner, Mr. T. B. * VifJe annual register, January .30th, 1805 a.d. t The exact date was October 16th, 1824 a.d, 152 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Horsfall, fonnerly member of Parliament for Liver- pool, Avlio made considerable additions to the estate, and, oil his death, left it entailed, together with his other land here (the Parchfiolds and Colton House, the site of the Church manor, &c.), subject to his wife’s life interest, on his son Henry, by his third wife. Miss Leeke. Mr. H. Horsfall, by his marriage with Miss Stewart, has now a son and heir named Idionias. The eldest surving son of the late Mr. Ldward Plount of Bellamore, is the well-known banker and leading English resident in Paris. Another son, lately deceased, was Mr. Walter Aston Blount, ‘‘Norroy King-at-Arms.” The arms of the Blounts are harry nebule of six, or and sable.” P5)rmerly the road from Rugeley to Colton, called the Atill Lane, entered Bellamore Hall grounds at an oak tree near the gate lodge on the Rugeley Road, and j)assing through the orchard, across the yard, conveniently for the old Hall, turned on one side by the dell towards Bishton, and on the other towards AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 153 Admaston ; this road may yet be traced in dry weather here and there, on one side of it the land pays tithe, but not on the otlier, liaving belonged originally to different manors — a glance at the map will show that this course made a much more direct line for Admaston. The Colwich lodge gate stood opposite to the lane leading into ‘MVilmer” field, until Mr. Hoi*sfall removed it to its present site, and built the existing lodge. “ Wihner ” is, I lielieve, only a corruption of Windmill field, for the windmill already mentioned in early deeds seems to have stood there [c. description of Clerk’s land 17 Ch. 2. 1^ acres being in ‘^Windmill” field, namely, that which was exchanged for the croft behind the bla(‘k- smith’s house, with Mr. Horsfall J The Manor of Little Hay” (/.c., the small en- closure), is unquestionaldy the half hide mentioned in Domesday, belonging to Almar the Saxon, which passed to Asselin, the Mavesyn ancestor, soon after the Conquest ; it extends to Blithford, on one side, on the other to “Bentley” farm at Hill Bidware, belonging to Mavesyn Ridware parish. This is very oliservable, indicating, as it seems, an earlier origin for this manor than that of parishes ; while it explains, as we before observed, the Domesday Survey’s description “ In Colte (abbreviation for Coltone) is another half hide, and it pertains to Coltone,” i.e.^ the chief part of the estate together with the manor house is situated in Colton parish. It passed, as we have seen, to tlie descendants of the “younger” line of Asselin (de Mavesyn); 154 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLI'ON whether this was hy iiitei’-marria^e with Almar’s family, or not, must remain inu^crtain ; and is styled a fourth part of the Manor of Cotton ” in Mwitin^s of the fourteenth century — not i|m])rohahly, because of the four chief landoAvnei-s here — D(' AVasteneys, de Colton, de Littlediay, and Griffin ; and then only rou^bly s])eakino‘. Certainly it never l)elon^‘ed to the Wastenevs ; for it ])ays tithe, which no ])art of their estate has ever done ; moreover, as stated already, William le Jovene, or the “young lord” of Littlehav, ])ayed for le Mareschal (witness the Inquisition of 1278 a.d.) the annual merk rent, due to Hos^ ; which had l)een originally claimed ])v Ralph Hose, in tlie time of King John, from Nicholas Mavesyu, William the young lorffis ancestor. From Nicholas, the son of Ralph {v. previous Fij^e and Assize rolls), who, judging from his son’s age, ])robably covers the interval between c. 1160 a.d. to 1206 A.D. ; the “Little Hay” lands passed to William son of Nicholas, ])laced second among the four Colton landholders in 1204 a.d., and the same who was sued in 1 212 a.d. for ^ hide here, representing not im])robably this very manor of “Little Hay,’’ whi(*h Avas so ATilued in the Domesday Siiiwey. William, son of Nicholas ^lavesyn, AA’'as succeeded by William, son of William (de Colton), AA^iose name occurs betAveen 1227 a.d. and, 1 think, until 1269, on several occasions, although it is difficult among the successive Williams to define exactly the limit of each one’s tenure. It is eAudent that the Plea roll of 1227 A.D., betAveen AVilliam, son of William, DESCENT OF THE MAVESYNS OF “LITTLE HAY” MANOR. 'o o '+-I a) o o) . o . ^ i> n g g J -is ^3 O =+H ^ CHH 1-5 O O o ^Zh IS . ^ O I g w b P5 o O H I-] O 0.0 P4 - W pH :z; o W c/J ^ ^ ^ W w P3 ^ C5 rv. O M aP5 o o O w 5S '3t>j ID -Ti .£5 ^ Ji -'5 C'f S ■ Oh ^ = 2 1-5 O . Jh 'tl r O' Y ?0 '^i-' > D r- s- (M o CO (M D JK . bO 15 ® C S o <31 b>^ O CO D D S -DO, "o =gl M g2 D TS cn o P c3 Q CO • CO < CO One Robert Mavesyn de Colton, attests a Mavesyn deed with Hugh, son of Thomas de Colton, and others, Hugh Bret and VValerand Bret, &c (c. H. 3). He may have been another son of Wm. son of Nicholas Mavesyn. AND OF THE DE WA8TENEYS FAMILY. 155 Roliert the ])arson of Colton, and otliers, v. Nicholas de Alewy, can only relate to the Lord of “ Little- hay,” liecause William de Wasteneys then living was the son of Pliilip. In 1256 (Close rolls), John, tlie ])riest, lield land of William, son of William, while in that of 1269, he follows William de Wasteneys as one of the four Colton proprietors. William, son of William, grants land ^‘in my fee of Colton,” c. 1240 A.D. [v. Ingestre deed, appendix). Tlie successor of this William son of William, was William ^Ce Jovene,” seynur, with whom we meet c. 1282 — 1320. He was dead, certainly in 1324 a.d., for so the Sheriff reported. Whether there was another William besides who bore the ^lavesyn of Colton name, is not absolutely clear, but it is more likely that the 80 years were covered by the lives of William son of William, and of William ‘‘ le Jovene,” seynur de Colton. In 1263 a.d., William ‘He Jovene ” interfered to ])rotect Nicholas, the slayer of Adam son of Hereward, when guarded in Colton Church, as already mentioned, and in 1278, Agatha de Morhay sued him for pasture rights here {v. supra), A Blithefield deed of 1 322 a.d. shews that Robert, son of William le youngelord of Littlehay,” sold the Little Hay manor to Richard de Blithfield, and Cecilia, his wife ; which Richard is held to be seventh in descent from Herman the Saxon, lord of Crombe and Hul-Crombe, in Worcestersliire, as well as of Charteley and Blithfield in this county. Lhe next year, Robert, still called de Little-hay,” for he retained a life-interest in the manor, acknow- 156 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON ledges liimself Ijoiiiid to Rieliard, lord of Blitlifield in the sum of £20, wliicJi lie covenants to jiay down at Blitlifield on the ensuing Xmas. The subsidy roll of 6 Ed. 8, assesses the same Robert ‘‘ de Little- hay ” at X®’ a large amount. In a fine of IT Ed. 2 (1824 A.D.) Richard de Blitlifield sues Robert de Littlehay for a fourth part of Colton manor, save one messuage, forty acres of land, and three acres of moor, in the same manor. Robert, concedes it, and is allowed to retain the land for life — at the nominal yearly rent of one rose — he undertaking also to render the usual servi(*es due to the over- lord. Anselm le Mareschal ( ?) l^wo years later, Richard de Blitlifield having the estate of Robert de Hampton in the wood called Littlehay,” in Colton, conveys it by deed to Robert ‘‘ de Little- lia \ ,” with rights of herbage, and necessary allow- ances of timber for hay bote, and hearth bote (Tc., for re]mir of fences, &c., and for fuel), to hold during his life time, the grant to be forfeited if he infringed the conditions (*oncerning waste, or under- letting ; among the witnesses to this deed was Reginald de Wastineys., of Colton. Does this wood re])resent the excepted forty acres of the former grant ? and did it pass to Robert de Hampton for the debt of £20 owed him, according to the Pleas of 18 Ed. 2 (1825 a.d.) by the late William le Jovene ? Certainly in this instance, the clause as to waste proved necessary. Eor, in 1889 a.d. (12 Ed. 8), we find Richard de Blythfield suing Robert de Luttlehay, of Colton, for causing waste and de- AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 157 struction in his houses and woods in Colton, which he had demysed to him for the life of Robert ; and he stated that he had demysed to the said Robert) for his life, the fourth part of the Manor of Cotton^ and he had caused waste and destruction liy ])ulling down a sheep-fold (bercariam) worth 20s., a piggery worth 20s., and by cutting down and selling 100 oak trees, each worth 8s., 60 arabes each worth 1 s. 6d., and 1 8 apple trees each worth 2s. ; the Sheriff was therefore ordered to proceed in person to the said houses and woods, and make inquisition on oath respecting the alleged damage, and to return the inquisition into court on the octaves of St. John the Baptist ; a postscript states that the Sheriff did so at the quindene of Michaelmas ; and it found that the said Robert had caused waste by destroying an ox -stall (boveriam) worth \ marc ; and by selling 61 oak trees, each worth 15d. ; four arabes, each worth 4d. ; 18 pear trees each worth 4d. ; Richard therefore is to recover seisin of the said tene- ments, by view of the jury who had made the in([uisition ; and triple damages, according to the statute £18. 16s. 2d.) The injury was clearly considerable (can arabes = arablas, Z.^., ‘‘ white ” wood trees generally — v. du Cange ?). The new owners retained possession of the manor, until the marriage of Elizabeth, daughter and heiress of Richard de Blithfield, with Sir Ralph Bagot, of Bagots Bromley, carried ‘‘ Little-hay,” together with Blithfield, into the hands of the Bagots, with whom it has continued ever since — being in Chet- lo8 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON wynd’s time (Charles II.) the a])|)aiia»'e of the youiig’er l)r(>thers of that line” (v. M8. History of Ihreliill Hundred) ; Imt now entailed on the liead of tlie family, witli tlie otlier Bagot estates (‘‘Finnes- hay ” whicli was erroneously stated, v. former edi- tion, to he in tliis manor, is in Bromley). We next find tlie ^Hdttleliay” estate foraiing ])art of the dower of Beatrix, Avife of Sir John Bagot ; and settled subse(|uently in 87 Hen. 6 (1459 a.d.), by the eldest son, Richard Bagot, on John, the younger l)rother, Isabella his Avife and their heirs — or, failing lieirs by Isabella, on tlie next heirs of John Bagot. Sir Jolm Gi’esley, the chief Colton land oAAUier, being tlie first witness to the conyeyance.* A se])arate deed of John and Isabella Bagot a])])oints Richard Griffin and John Clerk, their attorneys to receive jiossession. In 25 Hen. 8 (1584 A.n.), a fine was leAued between Thomas Skrymshawe and others, on the one })art, and Sir Lewis Bagot, Kt., on the other; by which Sir LeAvis gave up all rights in the manors of Blithfield, Bromley = Bagot, and Colton (Little Hay), receiAung £1,600 sterling; probably a formal surrender, witli a AueAV to re-entailing the land, or, otherwise, the security for so large a sum. In Queen Elizabeth’s time, Anthony Bagot, a dis- tinguished member of his family, a courtier, and chief folloAver of the ill-fated Robert Devereux, Earl of Essex, Avas oAvner of ‘‘ Little-hay.” His * For all these deeds vide appendix. MANOR llOUSK (LITTLE IIAY). AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 159 last will, which we shall here insert, is interesting for its bequests to several servants, ap})arently Colton people, as well as to the poor of Colton generally. The Will of Anthony Hagot of Colton. In the name of God, Amen, I, Anthony Bagott, of Coulton in the coimtye of Stafford, being sicke in body, but of perfect and good memory (thanks be given to God) doe make this my last Will and Testament, in manner and forme as followetli : ‘‘First I coinit and bequeath my soule into the hands of Almighty God, hopeing to bee saved oidy by the bloode of Christ. — Secondly, 1 comitt my bodye to the earth, to be buryed in Blithtield Churcli, by my wife, desiring such solemnization of my funerall, as my executors shall tliinke meete. — Thirdly, as for my goodes, my will is that tliey be soe disposed of according to former covenants ; excepting £30, wliich I am indebted to my sister, the Lady Bromley, wch my will is, should be paid out of my goodes by my executors : and sucli other goodes as 1 shall Ijy this my last will bequeath to others. Imprimis, 1 give to my three sisters, Mrs. Okeover, Mrs. Trew, and Mrs. ELiiiersley, three duckits (ducats) which are in a box in my cu})board with my evidences. Item, I give to my servants as followetli: Ftirst to John Arnalde* foure })ounds, * The names “ Arnald,” ‘Hunt,” “Sherbrooke,” and “Ash,” are all from a Colton source. 160 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON then to Antlioiiy Hunt, three |)ounds, next to \¥illiani Cowj)er tliree poundes, and to William Cop})ing’ one })ounde ; and to Winifred Dent three ])ounds, and to Anne Ffoaden tliree j)ounds and to Eleanor Slierlu’ooke one jxuinde, to Margery Milner tliree pounds. Item I give to the ])oore of C.Vjulton two pounds, to be paid by my executors witliin a month after my funerall, within which time alsoe my will is that my servants be ])ayed their legacies above mentioned. Item, of this my last will and testament I constitute and entreate mv sister, tlie Lady Bromley,* and my brother Walter Bagott, of Hlitlifield, Esqre., to be myne executors, and give unto eytlier of them an old angell,t whicli bee in the forenamed box ; hopeing they will see this my last will })erformed according to the trust wliicli I re})Ose in them. Item, I give to my daughter a trelde Soveraigne, and to my sonne-in- lawe a double Elizabeth Soveraigne, and to my grandchild Katherine the next best piece of gould whicli is in the same place. In witness whereof 1 ])ut my hand and seal this 18th day of June, anno, doni. 1622. Am\ BAGOTT. In the presence of us underwritten, Abdie Birch, Sim: Ash, John Carswell. * The Lady Bromley, was sister to Mrs. Katherine Bagott — Antliony Bagott’s wife — being the other daughter and co-heiress of Lowe, of Tamhorne. t Tlie first angels were struck in Ed. IV. reign — they were gold coins bearing the figure of the Arch-angel Michael piercing the dragon — on the reverse, “ a ship with a large cross for the mast.” — (Humphrey’s C. C. Manual, vol. 2, p. 453.) ^ X. CHIMNEYS OF FORMER MANOR HOUSE OF LITTLE HAY. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 161 *Ralpli, tliird son of Walter Bagot, lived and died liere ; William Bagot. son of Sir Edward, also occupied the manor. In 1646 a.d., the “Little Hav ” estate was valued at £28 14s. 7d. yearly to Sir Hervey Bagot. In 1702, and again in 1729, it is mentioned as Sir Walter Bagot’s. The old manor house, a half-timl)ered luiilding, covered with rough cast, was taken down in 1846 a.d., having become unsafe for habitation, owing solely to the decayed state of the floors ; for the strength of the walls is still remembered by the men employed in their destruction ; to mark the site, two of its picturesque Tudor chimneys, together with the ancient hearth, AYere spared by Lord Bagot’ s orders, at the sugges- tion of the late Mr. H. W. Holland, then tenant of the manor farm. The following statement of the boundaries of the Manor is taken from the last perambulation of “Little Hay,” declared at the Court Baron of the Right Honlile. William Lord Bagot, lord of the aforesaid Manor, held by adjourn- ment at the house of Mr. Richard Parr, of Colton, on Tuesday, January 8rd, 55 George 3. (1815 a.d.) The Jurorst upon their oath present that all * Book on the family history of the Bagots, at Blithfield. tTuE Names of the Jurors’ Sworn. Francis Spencer. Thomas Hodgkinson. William Webb. Edward Smith. William Onley. Charles Holland, John Moxon. Charles Marsh. John Stych. John Hawklns. Robert Sherratt. Thomas Dicken. ^ (The Rev. Charles Landor. 1 Affeerors.s V Sworn. ( M R. Charles Townsend. j 162 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON pei’sons who owe suit and service to this Court, and have not appeared or essoigned* tliis day, in tlie sum of threepence each. They likewise present tliat tliere is a double chief rent due to the Lord, for a relief upon the death of every freeholder dying seised of any messuage or lands within this Manor, and that the same is due to tlie Lord u[)on every alienation of any freehold messuage of lands within the same. They also present on their oath the limits or boundaries ” of the Manor of Little-hay aforesaid, and which they have surrounded and carefully traversed by a perambulation made at this Court, lield 8rd day of Deceml^er last, &c. “ Beginning at tlie Manor house, in the holding of Mr. Richard Parr, then go down the street to the house at the corner of Hollow lane, and continue up the said lane Ij}^ the Bank Top, and the Lawn Barn, down Longley Common, and through the gate on the south side of Hurst Woods, along the great road to the road leading to the Hurst Wood gate at tlie Hadleys — from thence along the road leading to Stonyford lane,*)* and all the way down Stonyford lane to the Lichfield and Uttoxeter Turnpike Road at the finger post, and across that road along the way leading to Nether Bentley House. J From * Essoigned, from essonium, “ an excuse.” t Stonyford Lane, is the lane connecting the Blithbury Road with Hill Ridware. i Bentley House, is the house at the corner as you enter Hill Ridware. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 163 thence across the Bentley meadow, up the old road, thi’ough the plantation, and by the stone quarry round upper Bentley House, by the Dial and the end of the stable to a gate at the end of the further sunk fence — from thence to the Lower Terry Lount, and then north about forty yards to the boundaries of Mavesyn Ridware parish, and round the boundaries to Blithbury Green. From Blithbury Green by the said boundaries round Blyth farm, by the further Blyth to the turnpike road, then to Blythford, from thence up Goldsworth Lane (still along the said boundaries) into Golds- worth Leasow, up to a young oak tree, where a stile formerly stood upon a late footway leading to the Lane, and along Hobacre and little Hobacre to the three Lane ends, opposite Mr. Sherratt Wild’s Leasow gate, and along the lane leading to a Barn of Messrs. George Webb and James Webb, or one of them, upon Admaston School lands. Now leave the boundaries of Mavesyn Ridware parish, and go down l)y the north side of the Hurst Woods to the north side of Longley Common, or to Finney’s Hill, down Featherlied Lane to Stockwell Heath. From thence round Samuel Salt’s ^ Calf Croft ’ into John Lyon’s meadow (an encroachment), back again to Stockwell Heath Bogs, from thence into the Lows with tlie footpath to the Crofts’ Leasow, from thence up the footpath in Thomas Watson’s Croft, late William Yates’, leading to the Manor House, afore- said.” Of the woods, which formerly covered great part of the estate, only a few trees near the “ New- 164 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON land’s ” road, and here and tliere a solitary oak, notahly one in tlu' Croft l)efore the present farm lioiise, noAv remain ; fortunately the names of the fields continue to preserve the fact, wliich early deeds liave recorded ; and l)ear Avitness to the loss that the landsca})e has suffered in their removal. W(^ ar(‘ indebted to the kindness of Mrs. Smyth, daugliter of Mr. Walkeden, a former occupier of the Manor, for the accompanying drawing of the old house of the Bagots. The engraver has done A^ery little justice to its merits, particularly with respect to the chimneys before mentioned, Avhich he has mistaken for a single oblong block. A second sketcli from the late Mr. Horsley’s* pencil has corrected the error, and giAu^n an accurate view of their ])resent condition. The old deer park of Henry Illrd’s time has l)e- (‘.ome part of Lord Bagot’s property, but its memory is still preserved in the Park ” lane, connecting it Avith Stockwell Heath. Though now divided into fields, and let Avith the ‘‘Little-hay farm,” it forms no portion of the “ Manor’’ of Little-hay. Inclosed originally by the De Wasteneys {vide John de Cald- well’s roll, AAfiiere a charge for mending the paling occurs), it passed from the Gresleys’ to Sir Walter Aston, in 1610, and Avas conveyed by Walter (2nd) Lord Aston to Sir Harvey Bagot, in trust for Bi(;hard Bagot and his heirs, for the sum of £660 — * Mr. H. H. Horsley was tenant of “Little Hay,” under Lord P>agot, for several years. t OLD PARK FKNCE. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 165 ]\Iarcli 1659 a.d. The remarkable fence sur- rounclin^ it, a sketch of Avhich is here inserted, lias been in many })laces cut away ; we can only hojje as much to its improvement from the agricultural, as it is undoubtedly to its injury from the antiquarian side. However, the boundaries may yet be traced, and will be found marked with crosses on the acconqianying maj), as follows : — Starting from Mr. Nichols’ barn, beyond the “Crab tree” above Stockwell Heath, the boundary fence passes to the top of the bank dividing the “Barn Close” from Mr. Stanley’s field, called Hadley, thence turns to the right down the Barn Close, and so to “ Bowling Alley,” or Mere Lane, following along the Lane as far as to the “ Newlands’ road, and the pit at the corner where the lane and the road meet, then over the stile and liy the footpath again to the corner of the ^ Far Wood,’ thence to the north end of the ^Far Wood,’ and so following the untitheable land border to the Stockwell Heath Barn.” The fence consists of a high bank bearing in many places a double row of trees, and a broad ditch ; it measures aljout 8 yards where the sketch was taken, that is to say at the north west corner. It’s right to the name of the “ Old ” Park is con- firmed by the remote situation. The earlier parks were seldom in the immediate neighbourhood of the lord’s dwelling, being intended, not for orna- ment, but for inclosing, and protecting game. Bagot’s imrk, or, better still, the “ old ’’ deer park of Warwick Castle, are instances of this practice. 166 80ME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Several suits for park breakinf^' in the reigns of Ed. III. and Ric. II. have been already given from the Plea rolls. Tliis park contained about 110 acres 2 roods 9 ])ercheS; if the fields called Little Park, Great Park, and Park Meadows (Xos. 448, 449, 450) are not included witliin the Ijoundary. Probabl}' they ought not to be, because they pay tithe, a clear proof that they were a portion of tlie de Colton, or Church Manor; not of the de Wasteneys estate: the Park itsef having been made by the de Wasteneys, witness the royal grant. The only other solution possible would be, that John de Gresley, after he acquired both manors, may liave eidarged the })ark by the addition of those three fields (about 18 acres) ; this is not, however, very likely. They were more probably called the ‘‘ Park” meadows because they touched its boundary fence. The “ Mere” Lane was anciently so-named because it divides Colton and Blithfield parishes: “Mere” signifying “ Boundary.” This was the only road to the Newlands till modern times. The present road makes a sharp turn close to the entrance of “ Mere” or “ Bowling Alley” lane — marking where the modern part leading directly to the large farm- house begins. The earliest notice of the “ Lount ” 23roperty is that of c. 1200 A.i). (^oide deeds relating to St. Thomas’ Priory, in tlie appendix). It passed from Warin Griff yn de Colton to John his son ; John conveyed it to Hugh de Breuse (or Bross), who in turn transferred it to Symon de Walton, who granted AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 167 it to the Austin Canons of St. Thomas’ Priory, near Stafford. William, son of William (Mavesyn) of Little Hay” (?), excused their suit at his court — save half-yearly by an appointed representative. Roger de Styvington was also a considerable bene- factor to the Priory of land in Colton. Certain other lands were given them, inclosed from the waste here as early as 1257 a.d., by Win. de Wasteneys and the chief holders of manors ; property consolidated by degrees into the Grange” or Boughey hall ” estate. In 1259 a.d., the Patent Rolls describe a suit, brought by Thomas Cuinyn, vicar of Colwich, against the Prior, for common of pasture rights here ; their land being in Haywood manor, now called the Parish of Colwich. Both farms were, no doubt, included, when in 1284 A.D., King Edward Edward I. granted to St. Thomas liberty of free warren* over all their demesne lands, including those in Colton. For this Priory of St. Thomas a Becket held here, by gift of William de Wastineys, and others, the land of one ox-team, reckoned at 12s yearly ; besides 2s. dd. } early from court dues, with certain messuages. The eiupiiry into their value was made ad. 1291, when Pope Nicholas IV. granted all the tenths of England to King Edward to defray the expense of a Crusade to Palestine. But the Patent rolls of 4 Ed. I (1275 A.D.), contain an earlier reference to these lands in a suit brought by the Prior of St. Thomas’, against * Calendarium Hot. Cart 12 Ed. 1 {i.e.) the tenths of the tithes. 168 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Roger cle Veriiey, and others, for pasture rights in Colton ; soon followed by an answering charge (1277-8), which John, son of Hugh de Colton, brought against the Prior, while John le Counter, Henry son of Henry, and Richard son of Henry, William de Uttoxeter and Juliana his wife, occur in the Patents of 1277 a.d., combined in a similar action against the Prior. The same year William and Juliana have another suit for pasture rights here with the Prior, but without the other plaintifts, the claim being clearly in right of the wife. .A trial is given (in the Plea rolls, 21 Ed. 3) whether Sir Tho. le Wasteneys and Joan his wife, Avith John their son, Nicholas Caldewalle, and Agnes of the '‘Cnolle” of Colton, had deprived the Prior of a messuage here. The suit proceeded in their absence, and the jury stated that the messuage was formerly the Prior’s, in right of his church, and one Isabella le Walshe had acquired it from the said Prior, to be held for ever of the Priory by an annual rent of 2s.; and Isabella had afterwards enfeoffed in it her illegitimate daughter Alianor, who had died seised of it, leaving no issue ; wherefore it reverted to the Prior, as chief lord, and the defendants must pay him 6s. 8d damages, they further stated the Priory had held it time out of mind (m. 102 . Later on, in 1535 a.d., the Grange and Lount lands were worth lOOs. 8d. (annual rent) after the * A small deduction was due to the Bishop, besides 23fd., paid annually to Sir George Gresley, for land and tenements held here by the Priory. Valor Eccles., Henry Vlli. AND OF THE DE WA8TENEYS FAMILY. 169 dissolution of the religious houses, these were irranted, a.u. 1540, with the other estates of St. Thomas’ Priory, to Roland Lee, whom the King had raised to the see of Coventry and Lichfield. Risho]) Roland Lee is generally known from a single act of his life, the marriage of Henry Vlll. to Anne Boleyn* ; but that he had a better claim to be remembered, for j udgment and sound principle, few would hesitate to admit after considering the scheme which he set forth for the reform of the clergy in his diocese (quoted in Strype’s annals) : he is stated, moreover, to have shown considerable ability as Lord President of Wales, when he put down with the strong hand the robbers who infested the Welsh marches : his sister, Isabella or Sybilla, married Roger Fowler, descended, it is said, from Richard Fowler, of Foxley, in Buckinghamshire, who followed Richard 1. to Palestine, and for his vigilance and bravery in balHing a night attack of the Saracens on the Christian camp, was granted these arms by the King, “ ermine on a canton gules, an owl argent.” This tradition, however, can scarcely be admitted, for so excellent an authority as the late Mr. Sydney Grazebrook (annotating the Fowler pedigree, in the Staffs. Visitation of 1614 a.d.), says, ‘‘ that tlie arms here given were the bearings of Barton, of Barton- klartshorne, Bucks, which the Fowlers had a right to quarter.” Roger Fowler’s immediate descent from the family of that name in Norfolk (one of * Vide Hume’s History of England, vol. 4, p. Ill, Ed. 1789. 170 SOME ACCOUNT OF COFTON wli(nii was S([uii’e of the body to Edward IV.) can be more clearly proved {vide pedigree, vol. o (p. ii.) Staffs. Hist. Coll.). Their arms are given as azure, on a chevrcm argent, 0 crosses inoline sable, between 0 lions passant guardant.” To liis sister’s sons b\' Roger Fowler, Bishop Roland Lee, lje([ueathed his property A.D. 1548, the Colton estate falling to his nephew and namesake Rowland Fowler, from whom it passed to Greorge, Rowland’s son by his marriage with a daughter of Bradshawe, of Prestene, in Wales. Greorge Fowler sold the “Grange” and Lount lands at Colton, to Samson Boghay or Boughey — from whom the property takes its present name of the “Boughey Hall Farm.” The final concords of 20 Elizabeth supply further valuable particulars, besides the date. “ Between Sampson Boughey - - - Complainant. and George Fowler, Armiger - Deforciant, of two messuages, a cottage, two tofts, three gar- dens, three orchards, 170 acres of land, 40 acres of meadow, 200 acres of |)asture, 20 acres of wood, 10 acres of moor, 10 acres of marsh, and common of pasture for all cattle in 200 acres of furze and heath, in Colton and Colwich. George Fowler remitted all right to Sampson Bougliey, and his heirs ; for which Sampson gave him £100. The two messuages must be the Llount and Boughey Hall farmhouses. Thus, A.D. 1584, the St. Thomas’ lands again changed owners.* * Statls. Hist. Col., vol. 15, p. 158. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 171 111 22 James 1. (1625 a.d.), Sampson Bougliey and Joice Ills wife conveyed by line to Richard Wliiston, yeoman, and his heirs for ever, one messuage, one barn, one garden, one orchard, 86 acres of land, and 80 acres of pasture in Colton, receiving £100. Samson Boughey left a son and heir, George Boughey ; who, two years before his death, trans- ferred his Colton property to William Aston and others. Another instance probably of a collusive suit, to be followed by a re-entail to the donor’s family. The line is as follows : — Stafford, Mchms., 12 James 1, a.d. 1615. Between William Aston, gentleman, John Meare, and George Beardmore, gentlemen, plaintiffs ; and George Boughey, gentleman, deforciant, of three messuages, one cottage, two tofts, four gardens, four orchards, 190 acres of land, 46 acres of meadow, 220 acres of pasture, 26 acres of wood, 200 acres of furze and heath, 10 acres of moor, 10 acres of marsh, and common of pasture for all kinds of cattle in Colton, Colwich, Blithburie, and Maveson Ridware ; George Boughey acknowledged the said tenements to be the right of William, and ({uit-clainied them to him and his heirs for ever, and for this the plaintiff gave him £800. * Comparison of the two lines * Note.s in Erdswicke’s Staffordshire. Phe Boughey’s names occur in the Colton subsidy rolls of Elizabeth and James I. But these Boughey’s appear to have failed in proving their connec- tion with the main line of the family to the Herald’s satisfac- tion {v. Visitation Roll, S. H. C.) 172 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON shews tliat the ]h)ugliey’s had increased their })r()perty by some fifty acres. GeorgX3 Boughey died ill 1617, and was succeeded by liis son, another Samiison ; lie was one of those who compounded for not receiving- knighthood (temp. Charles 1. Staffs. Hist. Coll.) On the death of this Sampson Boughey, A.j). 1658, there was a failure of heirs male, the only son George having died four years before his father, conseij^uently the estate devolved upon the five daughters, co-heiresses, Elizabeth, Joye, Cathe- rine, Grace, and Constance. Constance, the youngest, married A¥hitehall Degge, son of Sir Simon Degge, a judge of the A¥elsh-Court, and by payment of £750 bought up the interest of the other sisters, and became sole owner of the Boughey Hall property.* A Vestry Book of 1659 a.d., proves that AVhite- hall Degge served the office of Surveyor of High- ways,” here in that year. Of his two children, the daughter Constance Degge, died an infant, and was buried at Colton, February 6, 1659 ; the boy, Simon Boughey Degge, survived his father, but did not live to take possession of the estate ; their mother married as her second husband Thomas AVhitgreave, Esq., of the ancient Staffordshire family of the AVhitgr eaves, of Moseley Hall — a name familiar to all readers of “ Boscobel ” — and evidently embraced her husband’s religious ojunions, for there is a suit of Sir Simon Degge’ s extant, praying the Privy Council to grant him the wardship of his grandson, * Vide Erdswicke’s Staffs. Notes, ikc. Colton House, South View. Colton House, North Front. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 173 and 80 remove him from his mother’s influence, who was bringing him up in the Roman Catholic faith *, the application was granted, and an order, issued by the Privy Council, was served on Mr. Whitgreave, September 20th, 1679.* In 1697 A.D. (8 Win. 3) we find Thomas Whit- irreave, the elder, and Constance his wife, witli Thomas Whitgreave the younger, as deforciants, conveying by fine to one Thomas Hutchinson, Esqre., five messuages, five barns, five gardens, three orchards, 150 acres of land, 50 acres of meadow, and 150 acres of pasture in Colton, &c., including Moseley and Fetherston, for £520, either as security or very probably for re-entail upon the Whitgreave family. A half-length portrait of the heiress, Constance Boughey, is in the possession of her descendant, Mr. Whitgreave, of Burton Manor, Stafford, and proves her to have been a lady of considerable beauty. The arms of the Boughey’ s are ^ ^ sable on a bend argent, 3 stags’ heads cabossed sable.” The Whitgreave family bear azure a cross quarterly pierced, or, in each quarter of the cross a chevron gules. ”t Immediately behind the “ Boughey Hall” farm- house stands an oak of remarkable size, measuring 26 feet in girth at the lowest point, and 21 feet at * Vide Appendix, where the order of the P. Council is given in full. t For an account of the “ Colton ” estate of Mr. Thomas Whitgreave. — Vide Appendix. 174 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON the height of one yard from the ground ; it is im- possible to determine accurately the age of this tree, but to judge fron; its a 2 )pearance it may have been here soon after, if not at the time of, the Conquest.* Colton House, of Queeil Anne’s or Greorge I. date, occupies some portion of the site of the de Colton ” (or ‘‘Church”) Manor; iVhnund’s home previous to tlie Conquest ; and subsequently called “ Maresclial’s and GrifPyn’s ” manor, when the de Colton’s liad been ousted ; or had Ijecome extinct in the person of William, son of Robert de Colton (temp. Ed. 3). The family has been traced back through the female line to Thomas de Colton, and to Gerald de Colton of c. 1165-1200 A.D. {vide accompanying pedigree and preceding account). The Griffyns continued to take an active part here down to the reign of Richard III. ; some members of the familv were very turbulent, and most of them, as we have seen, were constantly involved in law-suits, partly OAving, it may be, to the division of tlie Clmrch Manor, and to its special tenure. They owned meadoAvs on the l)anks of the Trent, including the island called “ Griffyn’s island,” which Ave should identify AAuth that facing the station on the south. The ])resent house (here represented from the * Dryden’s “ Palamon and Arcite,” or the “ Knight’s Tale.” Book 3 (quoted in “The Gamekeeper at Home.”) The monarch oak, the patriarch of trees, Shoots rising up, and spreads by slow degrees ; Three centuries he grows, and three he stays, Supreme in state, and in three more decays.” PEDIGREE OF THE GRIFFYNS, JOINT OWNERS OF THE “CHURCH” MANOR (OTHERWISE “ MARESCHAL’S ” MANOR). >..o . 5c £ ^ 5c > o C O) Ml ® ^ fl o o • g CO ® ■ aJ ? E ^ hC c 5c 'u O o ^ Ooo 5C <5 £ c3 (M O ® (M do >'3 03 ^ >. c S S C3 fl c 5C ^ 0^0 >i'o -Co 4> k: o; , S3 E 'c eS .2 _C3 t.1 u> ^ s gS lO c C5C to o c 43 O •“5 O P < ‘S (M ■ -'33 22 -c: s S i 01 I _ I [In 1283 A.D. Eliz., w. of David, son of Griffyn, held one-third of the \Vm. GrifFyn Richard Griffyn yearly rent of the Mareschal Manor in dower, David was therefore (1396 A.D.) (1396 A.D.) dead: was he a son of William Griffyn and Avice?] w,, ji>' j S' ‘i. li- 5 \; ^ • i , tf'y v'v;^ ■ ^ 1 'I ■ .• i£'.' V V' Ir' L V nV BcUamo^ir Hall. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 175 north and south sides) belonged in 1777 a.d. to Mr. William Pigott, a gentleman of good family, who kept harriers there ; and some years later, was occupied for a time by Lady Blount ; while tlie new Bellamore Hall was in building. In 1795 a.d. it had been purchased l)y Mr. John Heyliger Burt, High Sheriff of Staffordshire in 1805. The (lolton House gardens had then a reputation in the neigh- bourhood, which the occupier, Mr. F. Bonney, has restored. Mr. Burt married Miss Judith Okeover, one of the well-known Okeover family. Having occasion to visit his West Indian property, Mr. Burt was lost at sea on the voyage home ; the ship in which he sailed has never been heard of. After it had passed through several tenants’ hands, Colton house was sold by Mr. Burt’s son to Mr. T. B. Horsfall. The jiresent representa- tive of the Burt family, is the grandson of the High Sheriff, Mr. Henry Burt, an officer in the Prussian Army ; nephew and aide-de-camp of Field Marshal Count Von Moltke. Nearly opposite to Colton house, tliere stood formerly the old dovecote, lielong- ing to the manor, (*lose to the wall of the present school yard ; it was taken down within the re(*.ollec- tion of Mr. Cliarles Radford, and others now living- in Colton. This dovecote gave its name to the field. Of othei- houses here, Bellamore Lodge was built in 1851 A.D., for his daughter’s future use, by Mr. Oldham, of Bellamore Hall. Miss Oldham subse- fpiently enlarged and considerably improved the 176 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON liouse ; and lioro she resided until her death, April 2t), l(S8d A.D. The Kllen Oldham ” almshouses Avere ])uilt by her sister, Mrs. John Harland (on land hired for 99 years from the school trustees) ; an appropi-iate memorial to one who was a constant, wise, and g’enerous friend to the people of Colton ; (witness the girls’ school at llellamore, the restoration of the parish church, &c.) ; and whose name neither will, nor ou^ht to be, foro’otten. The photograph of the house is taken from the south- east corner. About 60 or 70 years ago, the workmen employed in digging gravel on a small rising ground, then knoAvn as the Chapel hill,” (situated on the south side of the present house, and now forming part of the lawn) discovered some foundations of an ancient chapel, from which the held derives its name of the Chapel yard.”* The plan, so far as it was un- (‘overed, was fairly perfect, there were no traces of pillars, but a single stone rudely carved with a man’s head, possiWy })art of a corbel, was found, and is now in the writer’s possession. Many small and very narroAv bricks, from an inch and a half to * Tliis had once been a burial ground, and bones are said to have been found there occasionally, vvhen the site was used as a gravel pit. James Lyons informed me he had seen many “carved stones” turned up in the chapel yard, but did not know what became of them, as “ no one took any interest in the matter ” (!) The houses including Colton Lodge, and the row of cottages leading to the blacksmith’s forge, were l)uilt by a lawyer named Coxe. r t ‘ ^ 6 #■- T V- V • - Rectory, South Front. Rectory, North Front. AND OF THE DE WASTENEY8 FAMILY. 177 two inches thick, were seen among the fragments.^' On Miss Oldham’s death, Bellamore Lodge passed to her sister, Mrs. John Harland, for life, with re- mainder to her nephew. Captain Charles 0. Old- ham, only son of her second brother, Charles. The rectory was removedt to the east side of the Church, l)y the Rev. John Landor; it stood previously on the Avest, at the upper end of the stable yard, having a garden bordering on the brook. The accompany- ing jdan best explains the position of the ^Ojld” rectory house and outbuildings ; it is taken from a terrier of the glebe made by Thos. Yates, in the year 1807 A. D. The field marked Mr. Landor’s’’ is the Castle Croft,” which he bought from Win. Lower, and conveyed to the liAung, in exchange for the small glebe field called ‘Mlishton Leasow.” A sepia drawing, among the Salt Library collections, dated 1840 a.d., shews a large waggon shed, with double doors, opening towards the road, and pro- jecting considerably (as in the plan) beyond the yard north wall near the two lime trees. The present stable and coach-house formed the old tithe barn until 1875 a.d. The entrance and dining *This stone was preserved in the Yates’ family for many years, when they left Colton it passed into the hands of William Haywood, who had been present when it was first discovered. We are indebted to Mr. Yates, the late Station Master of Weston, for the clue which led to its recovery — the head has probably been much mutiiated. t Not until seven children of the former rector had died there, owing to the dampness of the site. 178 «OMK ACCOUNT OF COLTON room of tlie modern rectory house were added by the rector the same year, wlien considerable altera- tions were also effected in the interior arrangement of the building. Hamley ” House (anciently “ Homeley now l)elonging to Lord llagot, is mentioned as Mr. Webb’s new house ■’ in a vestry book of the year 1707 ; it has undergone considerable alteration from time to time, and there was probably an earlier dwelling on the same site ; traces of an old window remain blocked up in the wall of one of the out- buildings, and the well is said to be curious. In the last century it was known as Raddle-pit House, in assessment for poor’s rates. The family of Webb was connected with Colton for a considerable time. In 14 Charles 2, one James Greene, gentleman, and Mary his wife, conveyed by fine to Samjjson Webb and his heirs, a cottage, 80 acres of land, 10 acres of meadow, 80 acres of pasture, and common of pas- ture in Colton, for £160, and in 7 AVilliam 6, 1696 A.D., William Webb acquired by fine a messuage, four barns, an orchard, 40 acres of land, 10 of meadow, and 50 of pasture, here, as security probably for £160. Eventually, after juissing from the hands of the Webbs, to Mr. Green, of Lichfield (a relation on the mother’s side). Hamley sold, on Mr. Green’s death, to the first Lord Bagot. ‘^Wilderly Hall,” so called, was once a building of much the same stamp as Hamley,’’ the registers show that it was inhabited in 1692 A.D. ; the lane noAv ending at the fish-ponds. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 179 formerly turned there to the right, and, following a line of trees, which still remain in the held, led to Wilderly. This land had belonged, we have seen, to Anselm le Mareschal. The road connecting Handey corner and Stockwell Heath is properly ^^Moor” lane. Of other ways. Tooth’s lane leads from Croft leasow into the main road, opposite to the school cottages. Brakenhill ’’ lane connects the upper end of Colton with the road to Stockwell Heath from Finner’s Hill, called Featherbed ” lane. Where the Welshman’s ” lane ran is hard to determine. It cannot, we think, be named from the murder of Madoc, the A¥elshman, near Morton, mentioned in the rolls. It may have lieen the held-way joining the road to Newlands with the Hadley Grate fields, (v. deeds). Some 65 years ago, the Newlands road itself was so overgrown as to be ini])assable for foot-passengers, who used a path through the adjoining fields ; and about 1830 a.d., on the foot-way leading from the Pinfold to Rugeley, two fields beyond the Holmes,” where the hedge was then very large and thick, John Deakin was assaulted and robbed, receiving injuries from wliich he never entirely recovered : for this crime two men and a woman were executed at Stafford. Before the railway was made, there was a lawlessness hardly credible now ; and peo})le yet living can recall other cases of highway robbery on the Blithfield road. So altered a state of tilings is worthy of record. The Fishponds” were made by old Mr. Spencer, of Boughey Hall farm, a man of some wealth, and 180 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON great eccentricity, at whose deatli they must have been })urchasecl by Lord Bagot. Of other lands in Colton, the Sleetings,’’* from the Danish ^^81et” (Saxon Shied”), meaning long, flat, smootli meadows, were enclosed some 90 years back under the direction of Mr. Harvey, t acting as agent for the Bagot family. The origin of the name Martlin ” appears un- certain, but is probably a corruption of the Marling” Hill, from the huge marl pit excavated on its south side, and forming the present Hollow lane and pit {vide the accompanying photograph). Marl was extensively employed to dress the land in early times : witness the provision for its use in charters ; * Tlie “ Eye ” meadow, often alluded to in Colton deeds, con- tained 32 acres 3 roods 3 perches, when Rev. J. Landor was rector. Of these Mr. Whitgreave held 10 acres 1 rood 2 perches; Mrs. Emery 1 4 acres 0 roods 9 perches ; J. Pegg, Esquire, 1 acre 6 roods 28 perches ; J. Webb, Esquire, 7 acres 0 roods 26 perches. A note of the “ Sleetings,” when Rev. John Landor held the living, gives 45 acres 3 roods 31 perches as their area : Lady Blount owning 6 acres 1 rood 37 perches; J. Webb, Esquire, 11 acres 0 rood 29 perches ; Lord Bagot 8 acres 3 roods 22 perches ; J. Burt, Esquire, 3 acres 3 roods 12 perches ; Rev. J, Landor 3 acres 1 rood 39 perches ; Mrs. R. Emery 8 acres 3 roods 38 perches ; J. Biddulph, Esquire, 2 acres 1 rood 31 perches; and Hayward 2 roods 13 perches. “ Ing ” means a pasture, but it is especially applied to low, moist ground, and such as is subject to occasional overflowings i^Arcli. Journal). The name is singularly appropriate here. t The hand gates on the footpath leading to the Station are all placed in a straight line, after passing “ The Holms,” a sign of Mr. Harvey’s work. The Holloisj Lane, Colton. The Long Stile, Colton. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 181 and this hill has supplied Colton with marl for many hundred years past. At one time the derivation was sought in the Colton mart, or market (for which Sir William de Wasteneys obtained the royal license c. 1241), but it is too ancient a name for any such origin, and the “marl” pit is, there can belittle question, the true explanation. A private Act of Parliament was obtained a.d. 1792, for the enclosure of waste lands in Colton, including four commons, Hamley and Stockwell Heaths, the Marsh, and Longley. These were vested in trustees, “in aid of the Poor’s rate in Colton,” Lady Blount being then the owner of the Manor. Certain parish houses were built at the Heath, aided possibly by the sale of some part of the enclosed land, in 1794 a.d. (?) The Rev. Charles S. Landor, then rector, accepted four acres of the marsh, valued at a rental not exceeding one pound an acre, in lieu of all tithes on these enclosed grounds (v. deed of 1845 a.d.). The lirook, so-called, which intersects the Marsh, may liaYe been, and probably was, originally an artificial cutting, made to drain the same, the real course being that which winds between the “ Marsh ” and “ the Holmes.” The former is called the “ Drain ” in an old plan, and makes a “ right angle ” where it leaves the true course. It may interest Colton people to know that the following families, whose descendants are now remaining in the village, were living here, apparently as yeomen, in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, a.d. 182 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON lo98 — Heyward, l^radbury, Tootli, Koyl, Parton, and Wakelin, but the oldest of all Colton names is tliat of Griffin, altliougli it is exceedingly doid^tful wlietlier tlie present family is descended, in any way, from the original sto(*k, known to liave l)een landowners liere in tlie time of King John, and wlio (‘an ])e traced down to tlie year a.d. 1480. 44ie curious M8. volume in the Salt Library, con- taining an ecclesiastical Census of the Province of Canterl)ury for the year a.d. 1 676, gives the following returns of the Colton population — 140 Conformists, 40 Roman Catholics, 80 Non-Conformists, making a total of 200 ; but whether young children were in(4uded in this estimate is doubtful, in some places thev certainly were not, as the book shows. Perhaps if another 50 were added, we should have a fairly accurate return of the whole number of inhabitants, judging from the burial register of those times, as (‘.ompared with that of the present day. The returns here quoted were made by the churchwardens at tlu' command of Dr. Henry Compton, elected Bishop of Oxford in 1674 and translated to London in a.d. 1675. The population of Colton at the time of the Sur- vey (1086 A.D.), gives a total, exclusive of the hml’s family, in both manors of 80 men; say, about 100 to 120 with women and children. This number would be i-aised as often as the de Wastineys Avere residing here. One hundred and twentA^-one paid the subsidy of 84 H. 8 — 1548 a.d. Probably nearly threes times that numl)er of inhabitants Avould be AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 183 within the mark, adding women and children (say 360). Children heino^ excluded from the Ecclesias- tical Census of 1676 a.d., about 280-300 would then represent the population. In 1810 a.d. there were 484 inhabitants ; in 1821 the number had risen to 569; Avhile in 1831 (when the canal was being con- structed) it rose to 765. In 1811, the census returned 645 persons (349 males and 296 females), and the last return of 1891 a.d. reached 736. The village stocks stood at the N.E. corner of Colton House garden wall, where their stone foundation may yet be traced (about 10 yards from the corner of the wall). The village pound adjoined the entrance of the field path to Rugeley, and is still known as the “Pin-fold.” The ancient custom of going “ souling,” on the evening of “All Saints” Day, recently survived among the young men. The children go “ Hallow- ing,” with a song beginning Hail all that be here.” To raise money for “ masses” for the dead was the origin of the practice. Within the last 20 years some of the inhabitants used to put flowers on the doorstep of their houses on May 1st; while down to modern times it was a custom here that the women should rise early on St. Thomas’ day, and go round the parish, to receive at each farmhouse from a joint to three pints of corn, which they exchanged for flour at the mill. It ceased when the mill became a “plaster” mill. Brand notices the practice in Warwickshire, as called “ corning.” These old * Corrupted into “ Holloby-here, 184 .SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON customs arc so fast dyin^ out that it is well they should be put on I’ec^ord. We learn from the following notices in the Plea rolls, ])reviously omitted, tliat in 10 H. 5, John Chet- wynd, with Rose liis wife, liad .sued John Clerk of Colton, Imsbandman, for a .sum of 11s. in arrear of an annual rent of 22s., which he owed them (m. 297), and in 1 Hen. 6, that Ro])ert Sutton sought to re- cover dama<>es from the same John Clerk for takino’ o o by force 5 oxen belonging to him from Colton, and impounding them without reasonable cause. John did not appear (m. 253). The next year, Thomas Gre.sley, Sheriff of Staffs., was fined 6s. 8d. for delaying to return the King’s writ beyond the 4th day of the quindene of Micliaelmas, 2 Hen. 6 (m. 56.) The church of Colton, dedicated to St. Mary the Virgin,” originally consisted of tower, north ai.sle, and nave with .south porch, chancel, and north cliancel ai.sle, or chapel; but this arrangement was clianged when tlie body of the church was rebuilt, A.D. 1851 ; by the conversion of the former aisle and rector’s chapel into the present nave and chancel, and the addition of an entirely new north aisle — rendered necessary by the growing population of the pari.sh. In the course of this alteration, Mr. Street increased the width of the present chancel, besides raising con.siderably both its floor and roof ; the east window of the south chancel, a poor speci- unm of Early Decorated Avork, Avitliout tracery, was Colton Church, from the East. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 185 taken away, and the triplet lancet window which originally lighted the north chancel, transferred to its place. The older portions of the building may be referi’ed to c. 1190-1200 A.T)., when the early English style was first being introduced ; whether there are traces of still more ancient Norman ” work in the tower foundations seems to us uncertain, although that view was suggested by an experienced architect. There can, however, be no doubt that the present ljuilding has undergone great alteration on three different occasions. The first of these may be easily traced in the addition to the tower of low buttresses, having no connexion with the earlier work, in the embattled parapet and })innacles, as well as in the upj^er part of the south chancel buttresses, and tlie later moulding which runs along above the original string course, but has unluckily been omitted in the accompanying woodcut ; all these are “ perpendicu- lar ” in character. The Church was again altered when tlie original north aisle Avas pulled down, to the great injurv of the building and destruction, doubtless, of much tliat Avas curious, in order to make Avax" on that side for a brick Avail Avith round-headed AvindoAVs, and a slated roof, equally mean and unsightly. This act of vandalism, for it deserves no other name, Avas perpetrated, there seems reason to belioA^e, at the *This change had not been made in the church of 1840 a.d , though the drawing so (mis )represents it, liaving been in- accurately copied. 186 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON l)eg*irinin^ of the last century (circa a.d. 1704).* (2) Finally the whole church was Ijrou^ht to its present ])eautiful condition when tlie restoration of a.d. 1851 was carried out l)y Mr. Street, thi*ough the energy and good taste of the then rector, the Rev. A. Seaton, supported ])y the li]jei*ality of Miss Oldham, of Bellamore, and other friends and par- ishioners. Idle only consideralile j^arts of the church of late twelfth, or of thirteenth century date, now standing are the tower and south chancel ; the latter is characterised hy a good early English triplet lancet window, and hy three windows of the same date, hut plainer design, along the south wall.*)* Here were discovered the frescoes, which are represented in the accompanying woodcuts. The figure of a hishop wearing a mitre, and hearing in his hand a jiastoral staff, was painted in full length on the splay of the window adjoining tlie nave, and is intended for St. Nicholas, the protector of children, the crook lieing filled up with a child’s head in allusion to that office. Tlie very curious fresco painted immediately above the priest’s door is part of the same subject, and re- presents tlie three maidens, who, according to an early, and probably authentic, tradition, were ])ro- * Considerable repairs were carried out in 1801 a.d , at a cost of £85 8s. 7Jd. In 1813 a gallery was erected for the singers at a further outlay of £25. t These windows were widened for the sake of light in 1851 a.d. >■ • ^ 'i V V; . • !> ; .• ■/ % ... ;, ' /•■ r^'- . .*■ C.^:- ^ *1 -vO-; V'--; -. V ■ 5 ^. ft.- % r^'. * ' ’ '.^-v 1 1 v- • ■ ST. NICHOLAS. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 187 vided with inarriage portions by St. Nicholas,* while sleepiii"* peacefully, all unconscious of the danger with which their father’s poverty threatened them ; on two successive nights the Bishop threw hags of monev in at a window of the house and withdrew noiselessly, hut on the third night their fatlier, lieing on tlie watch, discovered the rescuer of his daugliters. From this deed of mercy and lilierality, St. Nicholas received the art symbol of three purses, or golden halls, as shown in the ^^Ansidei” Madonna of Raphael, where the three halls are represented at the Saint’s feet {v. Martyrs and Saints of the first twelve centuries). In the previous edition of this account of Colton, tlie sleeping figures were identi- fied with the three youths murdered by the inn- keeper at Myra, and miraculously restored to life by St. Nicholas— as the story goes — hut the present explanation is certainly the more correct. Possibly tliere were other paintings, of whicli all traces had l)een lost, when tlie drawings were made. These frescoes are considered to he late 14th-century work about the time of Richard II.], and resemble the paintings on the ancient oak screen of Ingham Church, Norfolk, where the life and miracles of St. Nicholas are given in detail; the same three maidens in one bed being there exactly reproduced. Were further ])roof required, this explanation of the frescoes is strongly confirmed by what lias gone * Sfc. N'icholas was born at Patara, a city of Lycia, and for his piety, from a layman was made Bishop of Myra. He died on the 8th of the ides of December, a.d. 343. 188 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Ijcfore in tlie liistory of Colton. Since it has been shown that in Ricliai’d Il.’s time, tlie greater pai’t of tlie property liere jiassed into tlie hands of Sir Nicholas” de Gresley, through his marriage with Thomasine de Wasteneys, what more likely, there- fore, than that the figure of his patron saint, St. Nicholas, should have been introduced in the de(‘ora- tion of a chancel which belonged to him as the lav impropriator ? Of the other frescoes here given, discovered on the same wall eastwards and above the sedilia, the principal one represents ^ ‘ The expulsion of our first jiarents, Adam and Eve, from Paradise, and the tree of life;” the other, ‘‘ The salutation of Elizabeth.” The attitude and expression of the angel, however rudely drawn, are not wanting in power. These curious wall paintings were coloured chiefly a dull crimson, the tree of life excepted, whose leaves were green and the stem brown. They were damaged beyond all ])ossibility of restoration when the plaster was removed in a.d. 18b 1, but not until drawings had been carefully taken.* One of the so-called “Leper” windows, square- headed, occupies the usual place on the south side of the chancel, adjoining the body of the church. 0])enings of this kind were not intended to admit light, but were placed near the ground, conveniently * We are indebted to Mrs. Maw, formerly Miss Seaton, for the loan of these drawings, which are here carefully re-})roduced on a smaller scale. [The artist was the late Miss Levett, of Rugeley, who kindly copied them at the church restoration]. SALUTATION OP ELIZABETH. EXPULSION OP ADAM AND EVE. OLD FONT. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 189 for coinmunicatioii with anyone outside the build- ing ; while they were closed, as in this instance, with a shutter. Various conjectures have been made respecting their use, as, for instance, “ For the sight of the high altar, of the Faster light, for linging the ^ Sanctus ’ bell, for the ‘ Confessional,’ or for the opportunity of Divine Service for le 2 )ers,” (but the last is inadmissible altogether, and ringing the sanc- tus bell or the confessional was their chief object. (Woodstock History, chap, vii., p. 86). The priest’s door in the south wall is plain, but of the original fabric. This chancel contains an Early English piscina or water drain, Avith chamfered cusp ornaments placed immediately beneath the windoAV, which is said to be somewhat unusual, though instances are known elsewhere ; and the rude sedilia, comprising three openings of equal height, remain, although the stone has been re-faced in places, and the level of the floor throughout con- siderably raised. Traces of original work appear again in the bases of two pillars dividing the chancels. The ancient font, of which a sketch is here given,* Avas a simple boAvl of stone without mould- ing or ornament of any description, and much re- sembled that discovered in the wall of Sandon Church ; being too dilapidated for further use, it Avas unfortunately destroyed at the last restoration. * The woodcut makes the upper surface of the font too broad and flat, according to Mrs. Garner’s recollection of the original. 190 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Tlie })rc.seiit font was designed by Mr. Street, in nienioiy of tlie Rev. ( ^ S. Ijandor, formerly rector and patron of the living. There are several modern stained glass windows, but no traces remain of two shields painted, we conclude, on the ancient glass, which were to be seen in the time of James I.,* one re])resenting the arms of Gresley impaling Waste- neys,” the other on a field or, two chevrons sable,” intended possibly for the Bagot coat, though differently blazoned. t The princfi)al feature of Colton Church, taken as a whole is un(|uestionably its ancient tower, which is seen to the best advantage from the ordinary approach on the north-west, where the picturesc^ue covering of ivy adds much to the general effect without concealing its architectural merits. Since this was written, the ivy has been torn down by a violent gale, but will again cover the lower part of the tower in a few years time. Its removal brought to light a feature of the building which had escaped notice. Rather below the level of the belfry windows, on either angle of its north side, may be seen a projecting stone boss, formerly carved as a face ; that upon the north-western angle retains sufficient traces to make tliis certain. The stone on the north-east angle scarcely shows beyond the wall surface. It is * Viae MS. in the Salt Library, Stafford. t This is very uncertain, but we have failed to discover any more probable explanation. Colton Church, South View. xVND OF TPIE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 191 not usual, we believe, to find a mask in such a posi- tion, and unconnected with a string course. Un- fortunately the sandstone has suffered too much from the effect of time and weather to preserve any clear outline ; there are no corresponding traces on the south-western angle ; and the south-east would have been covered by the original clerestory. In attempting to plant creepers against the western face of the tower, the great width of the foundation, projecting some two feet beyond the wall, shewed the care of the old builders to provide sufficiently solid su])port for the weight of their tower is so low- lying a site. The belfry windows on three sides are each of two pointed openings of Early English work, separated by a plain shaft and spanned within by a round-headed arch. There are three bells, but one of them is modern, and was given by Miss Old- ham in A.D. 1852. They bear these inscriptions: — (1) “G. Hedderley fecit. ‘ God save his church.’ ” (2) “ C. &, G. Hears, founders, London, 1852. ‘ Laus Deo,’” (3) “John Woolums, Nicholas Balmford, and W. Burdeng. D.H.”* The following are the dimensions of the tower : — Height to sill of belfry windows, 24 feet ; height to top of parapet, o6 feet ; thickness of wall nowhere less tlian three feet ; inside measurement on ground floor, 12 feet square ; outside measurement, 19 feet. The interior length of the Church, exclusive of the * Are the letters D.H. on this bell the initials of the well- known bell founder, Daniel Hedderley 1 192 .S(XMK ACCOUNT OF COLTON tower, is 8H feet (j iuclies ; the Avidtli, witli the additional nortli aisle, 4o feet 4 indies. In the chiirdiyard, on tlie south side, lies the socket of the ancient cross ; on the nortli, resting against the AV^all, is a good exainjde of an old mount- ing block, a relic of the days when roads were almost impassable for wheels, and pillions Avere commonly used by the farmers’ wives ; Colton Street was little better than a water course until, in 1779 A.D., the long drain was made, chiefly at the cost of ]\Ir. Pigott, of Colton House. The name for the road to the Marsh is “ Water Lane,” being, in fact, only the bed of the brook. (At Dodford, Northants, the ^Anain ” street of the village was the brook, in 1875 A.D. !) The registers date from April 25, a.d. 1647. There is nothing remarkable in them beyond the entry of the note beloAv.* An inventory of Church goods (Staffordshire): 6 Edward 6, p. 14, contains the folloAving particulars relating to St. Mary’s, Colton : — Eyrst, on (one) eludes of silver with a patent, two vestments, tAvo *“ 1732 A.D. Sarah filius Gulielmi Woodruff hodie natus, paulo post propter legritudinem per Baptismum renatus, et iiiomento proxime sequent! denatus, nono die Decembris sepultus est.” “ Supra dictam ascriptionem poster! seculis futuris erroreiu rectoris coiiscribentis procul dubio vocabunt : sed, aud! lector quod verum est, et ride, mulieres quae partu! difficili aderant, et ob earn ipsain causam forsaii perterritae, per iiimium festi- nationem, aut negiigentiam, potius quam ignorantiam credendum est, sexus discrimini non sat curiose attendentes, nomen femi- neum mascule prol! imposuerunt.” Colton Church. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 193 old copes. Item — Two old towells, a cross of laten, two alter clothes, on (one) surplues. Item — Two iron kandelsticks, two bells in the stepull (belfry), a sanctus bell, and bucket of brasse. Memorandum Delyvered by the Rt. Honble. Walter Viscount Hereford, Lord Ferrers and of Charteley, Sir Edward Aston, Kt., and Edward Lyttleton, Esqre., Commissioners within the county of Stafford for church goodes, to Thomas Gallande and John Wyggen,* churchwardens of Colton, a chalice of silver with a patent, two bells and a sauncet bell in * The Wyggen family were yeomen and landowners here for many years. William Wyggen witnessed a Colton deed in 1350 A.D. (23 Ed. 3). John Wygan, of Colton, is mentioned similarly, 1422 A.D. (9 Hen. 5). Richard Wygan died 1458 a d. Another John Wygan was serving as churchwarden here in 1553 a.d. Thomas Wyggen attests a Bagot deed, 1538 a.d. Robert Wiggin pays 2s. towards the Poor loan of 1598 a.d. Simon Wyggen acts for Colton, 1677 a.d. — A copy of an indenture of release made by John Wyggen, of Colton, and others, May 7, 1685 a.d. (1 James 2), may be seen among the Salt Library MSS. (Beck 1 , 116). Ten years later (1695 a.d ), John Wyggen lent money to John and Herbert Aston (Ingestre deeds) and the name occurs frequently in the parish register, as for instance, Richard Wiggen’s burial at night in 1703 a.d. — Thomasine and Mary, daughters of Simon Wiggen, occur (1703 and 1712). — Ann, d. of John Wiggen, baptized here October 22, 1730, is the last entry. i) t The sanctus, sacring, or saunce bell was the small bell used at the most solemn part of the Mass or Holy Communion Service of those days, and so named from the words “Sanctus,” “ Sanctus,” “ Sanctus,” (Holy, Holy, Holy). It was usually a hand bell, but sometimes hung in a turret on the roof over the entrance of the chancel, 194 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON the steeple, two linen clothes for T’ holy Com- munion table, a smplus for the curat, savely to be kept until the king’s majestie’s pleasure therein be further knowen : In witness whereof the aforesaid have subscribed their names. 4th May, 7 Ed. 6.” (a.d. 1553.) The three carved misereres* in the north chancel, formerly belonging to Tenby Church, Pembroke- shire, had been sold to the carpenter of a neighbour- ing village, and placed in a summer-house, from which they were rescued by Mr. Seaton. ‘^The chapel” of the blessed Virgin Mary in Colton ; meaning, no doubt, the Church ; is referred to again in an assessment of ninths^ granted by Con- vocation to the Crown in the year a.d. 1341. The Abbot of Burton and Robert de Mavesyn were two of the Commissioners for this matter ; and Robert, son of John de Colton, Henry Colman, and William the Smith were made responsible for the ninths of this Church, valued at four marks, which consisted of the ninth sheaf, the ninth lamb, and the ninth fleece Nonarum Inquisitiones,” p. 131). Why the Jurors of ‘‘ Sandon and Draycote ” should state, as they do, that the ninth of sheaves, lambs, and fleeces, of the Church (“ capella ” is so used not un- frequently) of Colton, ‘Vhich has not yet been taxed,” * “ Misere^-es ” are the projecting brackets on the under side of the stall seats, which seats being fixed on hinges and turned up, the projection is sufficient to give rest without forming an actual seat They were intended for the relief of infirm clergy during long services wfiere much standing was required, “ Gloss, Arch,” AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 195 is worth this year 54s. lOd.,” does not appear; Imt the three Colton jurors assess the charge at 58s. 4d. It is observable that, while about one-third of Colton parish pays no tithe at all (forming, as it does, the untitheable, or de Wastineys, manor), there is a division of the tithe, between the rector and the Earl of Lichfield, the present lay impro- ])riator, the origin of which is not known, though it existed certainly when the Gresleys held the manor the fine of 1610 a.d. ) The small en- dowment in land now lielonging to the clerkshij) may have been, and probably was, originally attached to the ancient chapel discovered in the garden of Miss Oldham’s house as already noticed. It was intended, no doubt, for a Clerk in holy orders. A small piece of land on the west side of the church was added to the old church-yard by the late rector, Mr. Seaton, with the patron’s consent. The new burial ground was the gift of Mr. Horsfall, of Bellamore, to whose liberality Colton is further indebted for the school’s site and buildings ; Mr. Horsfall also carried through the consolidation of the school charities into a single endowment, sub- ject to the life interest of the mistress of the endowed school. The cross erected to his memory by his widow is of white Mansfield stone ; it rises about 15 feet from the ground, and was completed under Mr. Street’s direction, Nov. 15, 1879 a.d. Colton Wake, or Feast, is held on the Sunday nearest to Sept. 19th, which is to be traced, we con- clude, to the Nativity of the B, Virgin (old style 196 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Sept. 8th ), the church haying been dedicated in her honour. It should not be forgotten that the porch gates, designed by Messrs. Bodley and Garner, were given by the people of Colton, in memory of Miss Oldham. (Xmas, 1883 a.d.) The following list of the Rectors of Colton, and the Patrons who presented them, taken chiefly from the Lichfield registers, is curious in itself, and valuable for the light which it throws on the history of the place : — 1086 A.D. The priest of Colton (Domesday Survey). 1160 c. Gilbert,* the priest of Colton (v. Renner de Wolseley’s grant). 1203 ob. Richard, parson of Colton, p. Gerald de Colton (Plea rolls). 1227 c. Robert, the priest, parson of Colton (Plea rolls). 1254 c. John, the priest of (Close rolls, A:c., 41 Hen. 3). 1278 and 1284. William de Beverley, parson of Colton (P. rolls, bis.) 1303. Thomas de Bradewell,t p. Lady Avice le Mareschal. 1307. William de Nostrefeld, p. Lady Avice le M , on resig- nation of Tho. de Bradewell. 1331. William Attewoode (Pleas, 4 Ed. 3). 1338. James de Runham (on death of Wm.), p. Sir Robert de Morley, Kt., Marshal of Ireland. * Gilbert, the priest of Colton (1160 c. ), witness to the grant of Renner de Wolseley to the nuns of Blithbury, can hardly be, as Mr. Eyton suggests identical with the Gilbert wlio signs a Mavesyn deed of T200 a.d. Because the rolls prove that one Richard, the priest of Colton, died about 1203 a.d. t Lady Avice de Mareschal was not the Avice, wife of Rob. de Morley, but probably her mother. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 197 1340 c. William de Shulton* * * § (by exchange), p. Sir Robert de M or ley. 1342. William de Houghton, t presb. (on resignation), p. Sir Robert de Morley. 1349. William de Noblej (aliter de Winton), sub-deacon, on resignation, p. Sir Robert de Morley, Kt. 1350. William de Hanley§ (cleric), on resignation, p. Sir Robt. de Morley. 1350. Hugh Ffordyan,|j on resignation, p. by Sir Rob. de Morley, Kt. (M. of I.) 1361. William Pennell (chaplain), on death of Ffordian, p. Sir John Gresley, Kt., who had this turn through John Luterel, and he of Sir William de Morley. 1382. William Gierke** (accolyte), on death of Penne, p. Sir John Gresley, Kt. * William de Shulton occurs in the P.M. Inquisitions as acting, when rector of Colton, with one Win. Cruddeworth, chaplain, for the Abbot and Convent of Merivale, near Atherstone. t William de Houghton, 19 Ed. 3, was summoned for a seizure of property at Osgarthorp ; he acted as attorney for Sir Thomas Wastineys while the latter served in France, 1345 a.d. + William de Noble as a sub-deacon, ought not to have been accepted by the Bishop. The Council of London, 1208 a.d., required all incumbents to be priests. § 36 Ed. 3, William de Hanley sued Wm. Clerk for his accounts, while acting as his bailiff at Colton. |l Among the Ingestre deeds is a grant dated 1 1 Ed. 3, from Richard Ffordyan to Roger de Sodynton, and Agnes his wife, of lands in Elmhurst. Possibly this Hugh came of the same family, For a family named Penne, now holding land here (see deeds and Steward’s account roll), 1361 a.d. (XVII. Kal. Septh. ), Sir John Gresley, Kt., and Joan his wife, are described in the Lichfield registers as present- ing William Penne “jure dimissionis manerii de Colton eisdem ad firmam, una cum advocatione ecclesie per Johannem Luttrell, &c.” ** William Clerke was notorious for turbulence {v. Plea rolls). His appointment, being only an acolyte, was an abuse from the first. (1382 a.d.) “XIV. die Augusti anno domini supradicto apud Hey 198 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON 1385 c. John Mayston, p. Sir John de Gresley, Kt. 1395. John Mellereth, rector of Castle Frome (Herefordshire), by exchange with Mayston, p. Sir Thomas Gresley. 1403. James Conyngeston (cler.), on resignation, p. Sir Tho. Gresley. 1404. John Barston (presb.), on resignation of J. C., p. Sir Tho. Gresley. 1407. John Russhebury (chapl.), resignation of B., p. Sir Tho. Gresley. John Russhebury, rector of the church of Colton, attests a grant of land from Richard de Hampton (al. Richard Wynier) to Sir Tho. Gresley, Kt., 1410 a.d. — and in 1418 a.d., had a power of attorney to deliver lands at Morton to the same Sir Thomas, v. Gresley Charters, 388 and 400 B. (Ed. Jeayes). Previously, in 1411, he witnessed a deed conveying land at “Newlands ” from John Banastur to Sir Thomas. 1427. Henry Villers* (or Poule), chapl., p. Sir Tho. Gresley. 1431. Roger Hode (presb.), resignation of Poule, p. Sir Tho. Gresley. 1432 A.D. Robert Byrchore (presb.), p. Sir Tho. Gresley, Kt. 1441. John Thorpe (presb.), resignation of R. B., p. Sir Thomas de Gresley, Kt. 1447. John Fflynton (presb.), p. John Gresley, armgr. wode, Wms. Clerke de Colton, accolitus, admissus fuit ad ecclesiam de Colton vacanteni, et institutus in eMem, ad presentacionem Dni Johannis de Gresleye, militis, habentis jus presentandi ad eandem hac vice, racione dimissionis manerii de Colton ad firmain una cum advocatione ecclesie per Johanneni Luttrell factm, (pii quidem Johannes Lutrell habuit dictum manerium et advocationem dicte ecclesie ad terminum vite sue, ex con- cessione domini Willielnii de Morleye, ndlitis, veri ejusdem ecclesie .patroni, et incepit dicta ecclesia vacare XIX. Kalen. Septr. per mortem domini Willelmi Penne, ultimi rectoris ejusdem. (Lichfield registers, and compare deed in the appendix. ) * Possibly Henry Villers and Henry Poule are distinct ; and Poule followed Villers. The episcopal register does not make it clear — and, as the interval is so short — it seemed safer to identify them. AND OF THE UE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 199 1451. Thomas Wolstote (brother), Canon regular of Rou- cester, p. John Gresley, armgr. He resigns in 1458 a.d., and is re-appointed the same year to Colton (on surrendering Rugeley Vicarage). 1460 c. Thomas Fleccher (brother), p. Sir John Gresley, Kt. 1466. William Gresley (B, C. L ), on death of T. Fletcher, p. Sir John Gresley. 1470 c. Humphrey Brat, p. Sir John Gresley, Kt. 1499. John Gresley (cleric), death of Brat, p. Sir Tho. Gres- ley, Kt. 1500. George Tatton (chapl ), resignation of J. Gresley, p. Sir Tho. Gresley. 1544. John Wilson (chapl.), death of G. Tatton, p. Sir Geo. Gresley, Kt. 1558. Thomas Tatton (cleric), resignation of J. Wilson, p. Sir Wm. Gresley, Kt. 1573. Roger Re (clerc), death of Tho. Tatton, p. Tho. Blunt and Wm. Yate. 1592. Christopher Hunt,* p. probably Hunt, (he was rector 59 years, v, burial register). 1651. John Saunders,! M.A. (on death of Hunt), he was Prebendary of Pipe Parva in Lichf. Cathedral, 1672-1683, p. Lord Aston. * Christopher Hunt’s tenancy of the living for the remarkable number of 59 years is mentioned particularly in the Burial register. t A mural monument of white and gray marble, with the arms last mentioned on page 201, at the foot, and this inscription : — Conduntur Reliquiae Johannis Saunders, Rectoris de Leigh, et utraque academia in artibus magistri, Filii primogeniti Johannis Saunders, Rectoris de Coulton, Prebendarii de Lichfield, atque olim apud Oxonienses Scti Orielis collegii prcepositi, et Dorotheoe uxoris ejus, filioe Johannis Crompton de Stone Park armigeri, neptisque Gualteri Domini Aston, Baronis de Forfar. Hcec monuments 200 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON 1683. John Taylor, M.A., on death of J. Saunders. 1701. Samuel Spateman, death of J. Taylor, presented by Walter Warner, (possibly Lander (?) 1706. Richard Oneley, resignation of S. Spateman, p. Rob. Lander. 1708. John Taylor, M.A., on resignation of R. Oneley, p. Rev, John Spateman, of Yoxhall. 1738. John Taylor, M. A. (made also rector of Leigh, ad. 1749), on death of J. Taylor. 1767. John Landor, death J. Taylor, p. Robert Landor, of Rugeley. 1806. Charles Savage Landor, M.A., on death of J. Landor, p. Landor. 1849. Abdiel Seaton, M.A., on death of C. S. Landor, p. Mr. James Palmer, of Lichfield, patron this turn (by purchase). 1874. Frederick Perrot Parker, M.A., on death of A. Seaton, p. Rev. Charles Wilson Landor, M.A. In 1526 A.D., by deed executed at Colton, the next presentation was assigned (22 March, 16 Hen. 8) by Geo. Gresley, armgr., to Leonard Harewood, gent., and Christopher Hunt, yeoman. In A.D. 1499 a Papal dispensation was granted to John Gresley, clerk, then aged 17, to hold ecclesias- tical benefices without stint ! On a tablet, placed on the south wall of the chancel in Ashbourne Church by his grandson, John Saunders, M.A., Rector of Colton and Prebendary of Lichfield, is described as formerly Provost of Oriel College, Oxford ; ” but this is an error, as the dates alone will clearly prove. The John Saunders MeinoricB parentum ejus sacra, Johannes Saunders, LL.B. Ecclesioe Anglicanoe Presbvter, Propriis sumptibus extruenda fecit. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 201 who succeeded Dr. John Toulson* as Provost of Oriel, A.D. 1644, was a Doctor of Physic. He married Dorothy Wentworth, sister of the Dean of Armagh, and dying in a.d. 1653, was buried under the high altar in Oriel College Chapel, t His arms are thus given — “ Party per chevron, argent and sable, tliree elephants’ heads erased counter-changed, impaling those of Wentworth (his wife’s family). John Saunders, Rector of Colton, was a Master of Arts, and married Dorothy Crompton, J of Stone Park, a cousin of Lord Aston’s. He became Pre- bendary of Pipe Parva in Lichfield ("athedral in a.d. 1672, and dying in 1682, was buried at Colton. His arms were — Sable a chevron ermine, between three bulls’ heads cabosed argent.” The mistake has arisen from the names being identical, from their living about the same time, and from the curious coincidence that each of them married a wife named Dorotliy. The Daily Journal for 1735 mentions that ‘‘On Sunday, Sept. 7, died the Rev. Mr. John Taylor, M.A., Rector of Colton, which living he had possessed 27 years ; and was esteemed a good preacher, a good liver, a good parent, a good friend, and an example worthy the imitation of all.” In A.D. 1749 a dispensation passed the Great Seal to enable John Taylor, M.A., Chaplain to the * Le Neve’s Fasti ecdesti, 621 page, t Vide Ant. Wood’s “ Fasti Oxon.” I Dorothy, wife of the Rev. John Saunders, was buried at Colton, 1667 a.d. 202 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Dowager Countess of Uxbridge, to hold the rectory of Colton together witli that of Leigh, both in this county. In the year 1749 a.d., Mr. John Taylor, being known for a warm partisan of the Jacobite cause, was sent off to Stafford gaol, when the young Pretender” Charles Edward reached Derby; but this precaution on the part of those in power proved a signal failure, as the frequent visits j^aid him by the gentlemen of the county, who flocked into Stafford for that purpose, are said to have made far more commotion and excitement than could possibly have arisen had he remained unmolested at Colton. Jdie 2 )resentation of the Taylors is understood by their connection with the Landors. The latter family had been represented in Colton since Henry Vllltlfls time — witness the ^ ‘ subsidy ” roll and an Ingestre deed of James 1st [vide appendix). The following descent of the Taylors may help to make the connection clearer (see next page). The Rev. Charles Savage Landor was the brother of Walter Savage Landor, the poet, being the second son of Dr. Landor, of Warwick, by his wife. Miss Savage ; he was a man of strong character and con- siderable ability like his brother, well known in Staffordshire, and decidedly autocratic in his parish. The neglected condition of Parish Chiu’ches in the latter part of the last century is too well illus- trated by the use to which Colton Church tower was put down to the year 180G a.d.: the belfry being fitted up and used as the Rector’s pigeon-house (!) — AND OF THE UE WASTENEY8 FAMILY. 208 Taylor Pedigree. Rev. Ralph Taylor (Rector of Welford) Rev. John Taylor = (Rector of Ropsley, Lincoln) Margaret Constantine Rev. John Elizabeth Taylor (Rector of Colton) ob. 1700, let. 55 Pensel Anne Taylor Thomas Landor nat. 1625, ob. 1670 A.D. Rev John T ay lor (Rector of Colton) ob. 1735, let. 52 1 Anne Elizth. Robert Taylor Landor (of Hardwick) Rev. John Taylor (Rector of Colton) ob. 1767, let. 53. a state of things rightly put a stop to by the church- wardens when the Rev. Charles S. Landor entered upon the living. The case was submitted for CounsePs o})inion, and remains in the })recedent book at the Bishop’s Registry, Lichfield. This neglect did not extend to the ‘‘ services ; ” for daily service was held in Colton Cliurch by the Rev. John Landor. 204 somp: account op^ colton Bisliop Roger de Norbmy’s Register (p. 10) men- tions that a visitation was lield in Colton Parish Churcli, 1822 a.d. The parishioners of Abbot’s Bromley having failed to attend, were to be cited by the Dean of Stafford and Newport and excom- municated for their neglect.” Many conjectures have been hazarded respecting the derivation of Colton.” There can be no ques- tion that the Col in Colton and Colwich are the same ; possibly taken from the name of an early possessor ; but we believe the truer explanation is inclositre [or farm). Ascending the Coll” is an expression still used in West Dorset,* said to be derived from an old British word having its synonyme in the Latin collis,” a hill; a Norse word ^^colla” is also given with a similar meaning, whence Col-kirk is explained to be “ the church-on-the-hill.” Now the “Martlin” Hill is the feature which dis- tinguishes Colton ; as Haywood Hill stamps Colwich (which lies beneath it). Among early races (witness the Australian Aborigines), each spot is named by its most marked characteristic. * ‘’Ancient Dorset,” by C. Warne, P^sqre, F.S.A. (p. 177.) AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 205 MISCELLANEOUS DEEDS & PAPERS RELATING TO THE PARISH OF COLTON. Inq. Post. Mort. 6, Ed. 1, 1277. No. 33 An Inquisition made by Robert, son of John de Acmundeston (Admaston), Adam Morell, William de Fraxino (Ash), Richard Wymer, William son of Roger de Couton, Hugh de Hampton, Richard de Gratewych, Robert de Hampton, John son of Walter de Colton, John de la Venele (Lane), John son of John de Acmundeston, and Nicholas le Messager of Acmundeston, who say on their oath that William le Mareschal had in Colton 1 7s. I Id. of yearly rent; whereof William le Jovene, seynur, his freeholder, renders yearly one* mark, and Nicholas le Mes- sagert yearly renders 3s. 8d. for four plots of meadow which they hold at farm, and the said Nicholas renders yearly Id. for a certain moor which he has in fee, and Id. he received from Benet Leigh. Also the same William le Mareschal received 9d. yearly from the lierbage of his portion of a certain wood called Wylderideley, in which he had no * This is the merk rent claimed by Ralph Hose, in the suit with Nicholas Mavesyn, William le Jovene’s ancestor (5 King John). t Nicholas le Messager lived at Admaston ; and the land was probably part of Wilderley — which, we find, subsequently be- longed to Anselm le Mareschal, 206 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON severalty except the moiety of the demesne, and in which all the freemen of the circumjacent Vills intercommon throughout the year. Also they say that the said William le IMareschal had the advowson of the Church of St. Mary of Colton, which said church is worth yearly 20 marks to the use of the parson who holds it. Also they say that the afore- said William le Mareschal held the aforesaid tenements of John Hose* hy the service of 20s. yearly, which Henry son of Hugh de Colton and John Grvffin freely hold of the same William, and paid annually to the said John Hose for the said William, so that no other service remained for them to pay, except their homage and escheat when it happens.” 1277 A.D. Abstract of Fines, 6 Ed. 1. Meinb. 8. The King receives the homage of John le Mareschal, son and lieir of William le Mareschal deceased, for all the lands which his said father William held of the King in capite ; and the King having ascertained by the Inquisition which he ordered to l)e made that the said William le Mareschal had a rent of 17s. lid. in the Vill of Colton, which was seised into the hands of King Henry during the disturbances in the realm, and which still remains in the hands of the present King * The presence of an interpolated Mareschal ’’ interest, be- tween Hose, and the Mavesyns, deColtons, and Griffyn’s, has been already accounted for. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 207 (Ed. I.), and the redemption of which pertains to the King, the Sheriff of Staffordshire is thereupon ordered to accept security from the said John for the said redemption, and then to give him full seisin of the same rent. 11 Ed. 1. 1282 A.D. Inq. post. mort. Extent made at Colton, on Monday next after the feast of St. Gregory, in the presence of Henry de Colton and Roger de Took by the oath of divers persons, who say that John le Mareschall held in Colton of Henry de Colton and John Gryffin the advowson of the Church of St. Mary in Colton, which is worth yearly 20 marks, and he did no service therefore to anijone,^ Also he held there of rent of assize of free tenants yearly, together with the rent of one acre of meadow, demised at will 11s. 5d. yearly and no more, because Pilizabeth the wife of David, son of Gryffin, held the residue in dower before the death of the said John, and which is now in the hands of our Lord the King. He also had there of the herbage of the Wood of Wylesdale 4d., also he had there a certain wood in division with John de Waste7ic/js’\ — but nothing is derived therefrom, * John le Mareschal had evidently succeeded in getting rid of the Hose interest. t What wood is this? Ashleyhay-wood ” belonged, we know, to Anselm le Mareschal, but it is uncertain whether John de Wasteneys shared that ; though its site adjoined the Wasteneys manor. 208 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON except when there is a sale of wood, and then he received half the profit. Also they say that William son of John le Mareschal is his next heir, and he was five years old at the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross last past. GRESLEY CHARTULARY. ‘^A son tres noble senior Wake, S. de Lydel, Thomas de Gastineys q com aller Mons. Willi de Gasteneys son pere en Gascoyn en la Svice le dit Senior lui dona la gard et la mai riage le dit Thomas et puis apres la venii Mons. Willm. en Angleterre p maledi qiiil prit en Gascoyne hastinet morus, lessant le dit Thomas dedans age. charges de deux freres et ouyt (huit) sours, ‘ degariz a la prior, Mons. Edmond de Gastineys.’* Contre son fait a dona le corps de dit Thomas a Mons. Roger de Swynenarton contre le tenure do son fait avanditte et puis al age le dit Tliomas le Baron de Stafford, de qui il teint le Manore de Colton, il claime le marriage.” A copie of a Lewn layd for ye ])oor of ye Parish * Tlie meaning of this clause is not clear. It is to be feared the transcriber of the original deed into the chartulaiy was not suhiciently careful, AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 209 of Coulton, taken from ye ori^inall in ye hands of Mr. Richard Bag-ott, as followeth : — Anno Regin Eliz. 40. April 14, 1598 a.d. s. Thomas Gresley, Esq. ... ... ... ... 8 The Old Wood with Snaylhorn'^' ... ... 10 The Old Laund ... ... ... ... ... 3 The sheep close, Birchencroft,! Shearbrook| Leasow and Cawdwell Spring, § in the hands of Samuel Royl ... ... ... ... 3 Cockett for Parchfield Meadow ... ... ... 3 Bearcroft|| and Aston Meadow ... ... ... 2 Coney Greavell and Almholme* ** ^' ... ... 3 New Lease we and Foxholes ... ... ... 3 Mr. Hunt for Mill Ditch ... . . .. 0 Mr. Arthur Gresley for Martlin... ... ... 1 Anthonie Bagott,ft gentleman ... ... ... 5 Thomas Lees ... ... ... ... ... 2 Ja Balle ... ... ... ... ... ... 1 Robert Balle ... ... ... ... ... 2 H. Bratt ... ... ... ... ... 4 William Yate ... ... ... ... ... 5 Thomas Butler ... ... ... ... ... 2 William Sawyer ... ... ... ... ... 4 Richard Robinson for Buckland ... ... 5 Mr. Arthur Gresley ... ... ... ... 4 Samuel Royl ... ... ... ... .. 2 Robert Wiggin ... ... ... ... ... 2 William Tooth ... ... ... ... ... 4 Richard Bradbury ... ... ... ... 3 Thomas Barton ... ... ... ... ... 2 d. 0 0 6 6 4 6 1 4 6 0 0 0 0 6 0 6 6 0 0 0 6 0 6 4 0 * 151 and 153 on Plan. f 172. X Shearbrook = hrook [modern “M orton ” Brook]. ^ 176 (on plan). 1| .309 (on plan). H 301 (on plan). ** 611 (on plan). f t Owner of Little Hay manor. 210 .SOME ACCOUNT OF CoETON Henry Smith Thomas Pegg John i^aggaley John Heyward William Butler Richard Robinson for Big Tntack Colwich for land, within the Parish of Colton. Mr. George Boughey, for all his Meadow Grounds, his launts, Echinghills,* New Closes, Trent Fields, his Closes in Hamleyf Mill Ditch, and ye Oat Croft John Wood John Oldacre, for all his Meadow Grounds, his Leasow at Hamley Heath, his other Inclosures late taken from the Fields Widow Beardall, for all her Meadow Grounds, and one Leasow in Hamley Robert Smith, for two Leasows in Sentaffi John Topping, for his Meadow Grounds, his Leasow in Hamley, and ye Holmes ... John Woodward, for his Meadow Ground in Coulton Parish... John Wilson, for Meadow Grounds and late Inclosures 2 G 1 0 1 0 0 4 Total . . . £5 16 11 § Subsidy Roll, 1 Ed. 3 (1327 a.d.). s. d. Ralpli de Stafford ... ... ... 4 0 * 1.5 (on plan). f 679, &c. (on plan.) X 462 (on plan). ^ Vi^e Vol. 7 (S. H. C.) where an account of this earliest Staffs, subsidy roll is given by General Wrottesley. It was “ a twentieth ” on movable property, excepting agricultural tools, tkc., and plate, jewels, armour, etc. AND OF THE DE WA8TENEYS FAMILY. 211 Anselm Mareschal ... ... ... 6 0 William Griff en ... ... ... 4 0 Robert de Littlehay ... ... 8 0 Henry Colemon ... ... ... 4 0 *Henry de Caldewell ... ... 2 0 *John Clechehok ... ... ... 4 0 * William Maynard ... ... ... 2 2 John le Baxter ... ... ... 1 0 *Jolm Galeweye ... ... ... 0 6' Ro^er Peres ... ... ... 1 0 * William de Hondesacre ... ... 0 1 Avicia Tenerai ... ... ... 2 9 ^Reginald de Wasteneys ... ... 1 6 Stephen de Slyndon ... ... 1 4 John Hawys ... ... ... 1 3 '•'Adam Brown ... ... ... 0 6 *Henry de Morhay ... ... ... 0 10 *John Andreii ... .. ... 0 6 *John le Counter ... .. ... 2 6 ^Xtiana Pourcey ... ... ... 1 0 Roljert le Smith ... ... ... 0 6 Ral])h Grym ... ... ... 8 6 ^Richard de Holihurst ... ... 1 0 Roliert son of John ... ... 1 6 Geoffrey at Ash ... ... ... 1 6 William Craddock ... ... ... 1 0 Total for Colton ... ... 64 0 212 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Subsidy Roll 6, Ed. 3 (1333 a.d.). s. d. 8 4 o 0 10 0 6 0 6 4 2 0 Anselm Mareschal William GryfPen Robert de Littlelia\ Henry Colemon William Cradock William Robyn John Hawys Rog’er Peres Stephen de Slyndon A vice Tenerey John le Baxter Adam le Smyth Thomas son of Matilda Ralph Scote... Robert son of John Geoffrey at Asli 0 3 0 0 2 5 2 5 Total ... 32 1 It will be observed that 27 persons contribute to the subsidy of 1 Ed. 3, against 1 6 to tliat of 0 Ed. 3. How is this to be ex])lained ? May not the first subsidy include the whole of Colton; while the second was drawn only from the tenants of tlie Mareschal” (or churcli manor), including those of the manor of ‘‘Little Hay”? Ralph de Stafford heads the first, as guardian and representative of the de Wasteneys’ heir, then under age — but Anselm le Mareschal, the second roll. If this explanation (‘an AND OF THE DE WA8TENEYS FAMILY. 2i;i be accepted, we then have the names of the de Wastiney’s manor tenants, as follows: — Henry de Caldwell, John Clechok, William Maynard, John Galweye, William de Hondesacre, Reg’inald de Wasteneys, Adam Brown, Henry de Morhay, John Andreu, John le Counter, Xtiana Pourcey, Ralph Grym, Richard de Holihurst. Colton paid by the subsidy roll of 46 Ed. 8 (for Xths and XVthsj 76s. 8d., but the names are not entered. In 51 Ed. 8, it paid, through John le Clerk, John Smith and John de Morhay, 40s. 4d. In 2 Hen. 4 (1400 a.d.) the Colton subsidy amounted to 88s. 4d. Subsidy Roll, 84 and 85 Hen. 8 (1548 a.d.) From the original at the Record Office. s. John Forde ... 5 Richard Leye ... 1 Richard Watson ... 0 Thomas Cart ... 0 Roger By wall ... 0 Robert Wolf ... 0 George Lees ... 0 Robert Pegge ... 0 John Smyth ... 1 d. s. d. 0 John Toste 0 2 0 Xtopher Badeley 0 4 4 James Addyson ... 0 8 1 Ric. Underwood... 0 4 8 John Wall 0 2 1 John Smallewood 0 8 4 James Newell ... 0 4 1 James Huntbach ... 0 4 0 Tho. Haywood ... 0 2 214 SOMK ACCOUNT OF COL'I'ON S. Roger Kodow 0 Ric. Launder 0 Rob. Brockliurst... 0 William Millward 0 Roger Tagge 0 William Tinistall . . . 0 Tlio. Biykyii 0 Win. (Iratwood ... 0 John Allot 0 John Halley 0 John Jane 0 Tho. Nevall 0 Eliz. Wigen 0 Tho. Wigen 0 Robert Shaw 0 Geo. Slyndon 0 M argaret Slyndon (w.) 0 Ralph Dayntre ... 0 Win. Lloimdes ... 0 John Byll 0 Joanna Wolrich (w.) 0 Janies Byll 0 William White ... 0 William Gretwood, 0 Tho. Sargand 18 Richard Heymes . . . 0 John Buttyngdale 0 s. d. John Walker 0 8 Tho. Barne 0 2 Win. Stedman 0 4 Xichls. Overton ... 0 2 Tho. Bagge 0 4 Ralph Grene 1 8 John Grene 1 4 John Geflyng 0 10 David Gold 0 4 William Grene ... 1 4 Thomas Salt 0 4 Wni. Okys 0 10 John Revt €/ 0 2 Agnes Nornianfyll (w.) 0 2 Tho. Hanley 0 4 John Assheley ... 0 2 Roger Sawyer 0 4 Henry Greene . . . 0 4 J ohn Pedley 0 2 Thomas Sawyer ... 0 10 Thomas Iresh 0 4 James Woolrich ... 0 2 Thomas Brett 0 10 Agnes Brett (w.)... 0 10 Win. Brett 0 8 George Bratt 0 8 Nichls. Bratt 0 8 Ste])hen Downes . . . 0 2 ]\Iargaret Ley (w.) 0 8 d. 2 4 2 1 2 4 10 2 2 2 4 ;i 2 2 4 4 8 2 4 10 4 4 2 4 8 2 AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 215 s. d. s. d. Riclid. Swanoote . . . 0 1 David Ansell 0 8 Hniipdirey Bayane 0 1 John Mason 0 2 Edward Bntler ... 0 2 Thomas Lovat 0 4 Alice Backhouse N icholas Bowers . . . 0 1 (w.) 0 8 Robt. Smyth 1 4 Huni})lirey Frost . . 0 ;i John Darne 1 4 Tlio. Backhouse ... 0 ;i Wm. Smyth 0 2 Richard Wegen ... 0 i James Bawse 0 2 Roger Blest 0 2 William Gervis ... 0 10 James Lander 0 John Whittington 0 4 Xtopher Matthewe 0 4 Humphy. Gervis .. 0 4 Thomas Brygge ... 0 4 Thomas Twyst ... 0 4 William Brockhurst 0 2 Eliz. Halley (w.) .. 0 2 Ric. Nowell 0 10 George Bratt 0 3 William vSmyth ... 0 4 Alice Whittington Henry Byshop ... 0 4 (w.) 0 2 James Allot 0 4 John Gay wood ... 0 4 John Blest 0 :] Robert Chatterton 0 2 Richard Brett 0 ;i William Ashley .. 0 3 Greo. Boughey 0 2 John Ashley 0 10 Joanna Blest (w.) .. 0 4 William Tyllesley 0 4 Thomas Barton ... 0 2 J olni Shropshire . . . 0 4 John Smart 0 1 Jolm Kenrick 0 3 Edward Ne wall ... 0 1 Anne Younge (w.) 0 1 Total amount ... 70 0 (121 persoiLs paid in Colton). 216 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Subsidy Roll, 87 Hen. 8 (1546 a.d.) Anthony Wolseley... s. 20 d. 0 John Fordo ... 14 0 Rieliard Leyyc 4 0 Jolin Smytli 4 0 Riel lard W atson 4 0 Nicholas Butler 3 4 John Masters 8 4 George Lees 8 4 Jolin Alcock 4 8 Anthony Oldacre ... 8 4 Thomas Dunne 8 4 William Arnold 8 4 William Bayte 2 0 Ellizabeth Layeson ... 4 0 Thomas Baydeley ... 8 4 Total .. ... ... £4 0 0 Subsidy Roll, Colton, 1568 a d. £ s. d. de Willielmo Gresley (pro tends, £80) ... 4 0 0 de Ricardo Leyye (pro bonis, £5) 0 8 4 de Johanne Sinythe (pro bonis, £5) 0 8 4 de Georg. Smythe (pro bonis, £\) 0 6 8 de Johanne Alcocke (pro bonis, £4) 0 6 8 de Sampson Boughey (pro bonis, £4) ... 0 6 8 de Roberto Pegge (pro tends, 20s.) 0 2 8 Total £5 19 4 AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 217 Subsidy Roll, 89 Eliz. (1597 a.d.), Colton. .£ s. d. Thomas Gresley, armgr. ... 10 0 0 George Boughay . . . 0 10 8 'Jdiomas Pegge .. ... 0 4 0 Jane Beardall (w.) ... 0 8 0 William Buckland ... 0 8 0 John Toothe ... 0 8 0 £11 18 0 William Yate, Collector. Subsidy Roll, 8 James 1 (1611 a.d.) £ s. d. George Boughey ... 2 2 8 Thomas Lees .. 1 1 4 Ricd. Beardsall ... ... 8 8 0 Thomas Yate ... 8 8 0 Humphrey Bratt ... 8 8 0 - £12 13 0 “ A geiierall survey of the Boundes and Limitts of this Lordshipp of Coultoii in this comity of Staffs. Taken bv us the jurors for the Court leet of the sd •y Mannor this 80th day of October, 1651, a.d.” Beginning from Trent side at ye further side of Trent feild. 1 . First we find a little meadow now in the holding 218 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON of Robert Atkins, of Jlisliton, the greatest ])art of it within tliis Llordshi])]), conionly cal’d Blitlnneadow, and adjoining to Bishton mires. 2. From thence we find six landes lying Ijeyond the cross hedge that parts two closes, Ijotli now in liolding of tlie said Robert Atkins, to be in this Llordshipp, at l)oth endes tlie Landes where we find the meer plowed upp we have sett two little heapes of stones. 8. From thence crossing the Portway we goe along down the midst of a close now in the holding of Win. Bishton, down a Bawlk in the said close in the midst whereof grows a crabb tree. 4. From thence we })ass over the Lower Hedge and soe goe up the further side of a close in the holding of Sampson Brett, of Coulton, late deceased, till we come to a land in Windmill feild caPd Theeves hadland. o. Where we find the Bawlk that was heretofore the parting of the Llordshijip in the said Windmill feild, butting from a hedge of Anthony Beelands, of Bishton, on the one end, to another hedge of the said Anthony Beelands on the other, to be a great part plowed up}) on both sides, well was in bredth before as far as we can find fowr yards. — Alsoe we find a Teenies lengthe of the said Bawlk to be Avholly })lowed upp by Richard Baker, of Bishton. This Bawlk we went up}), as finding it the Bowndes of this Llordshi})p there. 6. From thence Ave turne over a close of Anthonie Beelands abovesaid into the As}) Lownt belonging to ANJ) OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 219 Mr. Sampson Boughey, and soe along by the lower side of the said ground and furthest hedge, till we come to the further Llount belonging to the said Mr. Boughev, to a meer called the Brazen Meer,” in the said ground, which we find halfe in this Llordshipp ; and soe down the said meer till we come to Morton Lane, at the end of the said meer. 7. And soe up the said lane till we come over against the further side of “Roger Heyes,’’ now in the tenure of Ricliard Baker, of Bishton. All which Lane, containing in length and breadth about three acres, we find to be the Lds. wa (y ?) of this Llord- shipp. 8. Out of the said Lane we goe down the further side of all Roger Heyes, all which we find in this Llordshipj), and the meadow at the hot tome hereof, till we come to Morton Brook. From thence along the further side of the said Brook till we come to the further side of Yealds,* now in the holding of George Yate. 10. From thence we goe along by that Rink hedge till we come to the head of Marshawf (^sicj Fflatts, now belonging to Mr. Edward Bagott, of Blithfield. 11. And thence along by the outer hedge, and down by the north side of the said ground, till we come to an ancient meer Bawlk, lying in a close that belongs to Anthonie Abberley, of Adnierson. 12. And soe upp that Bawlk till we come to the * 735, 736, 737 (on plan). t 728 (on plan). 220 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON end of a croft tliat belongs to Lewis Abberley, of Adniersoii. Id. And soe alon^ by the said croft till we come to the Lea Lane. 14. And thence down the Lea Lane till we come to the outside of Lhomas Llees his balkside. 15. And thence by the outside of his hedge till we come to the l^ortway that goes betwixt Coulton and Admerson. 16. And thence down that way to a ground called ‘‘ Chappell Fflatts,” now in the holding of Anthony Abberley. 17. Thence along the outside of the ditch in the said ground strayt to a ground called Ffoivell^^ now in the holding of Humphrey Webb. 18. Thence along by the out hedge of the said ground, and soe over three closes, till we come to the corner of a close now in the holding of John James, of Steenwood. 19. And soe down the further side of his close till we came to Steenwood side. 29. And thence along the outside of that hedge that goes by the end of the said close till we come to a ground call’d the Hadley, now in the holding of Mr. Edward Bagott abovesaid. 21. Thence along the inside of that Kink hedge (which Mr. Bagott is to make) over the endes of those inclosures till we come to the corner of the ‘‘ Old Parke.” AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 221 22. Thence along the outside of the (31d Parke hedge till we come to “ Meer lane. 28. Thence down the said lane, which we find all in this Llordshipp till we come to Blith. 24. And soe along on the further side of Blith till we come to Barley Home.” 25. Thence upp that lane that leads to Blith- Burie till we come to a close cald Goldsworthy^ now in the holding of Win. Lloe (Lowe), of Blithbury. 26. Thence upp by the further hedge of that close till we come to a little short Bawlk in ye said close that leavs out two little Pikes in the said ground, that lie in Ridware, and soe parts the Llordshipp and shootes to ^‘Cutler’s Croft” that belongs to Thomas Smith, and is now in the holding of the said Win. Lloe. 27. Thence uppon land in the said Cutler’s Croft, which we conceive to be the Anncient Bawlk plowed upp, that parted the two Llordshipps, at the upper end of which land we have sett a little heap of stones. 28. Thence we pass over into the said Lane againe, and soe along the said Lane to tlie upper end of “ Co niton Hadley.” 29. Thence along by the upper end of the said ground till we come to SnealhorneJ (now Snaylhorn). 80. Thence along by the further side of Snealhorne till we come to a little piece of ground called tlie * i.e., “Bowling Alley Lane.” t No. 74 (plan). 151 and 153 (on plan). 222 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Nettles,” now in tlie holding of Henry Cotterall, of Blithbury. d I . Tlience down the end of the said close till we come to an ancient Bawlk,* in the midst whereof is an oak, and down that Bawlk till we come to tlie otlier end of the said ground, and soe crossing the end till we come into the Llawnd. 82. Tlience down the Llawnd, and all along liv the Pale side, till we come to ‘‘Ashley Heyes.” 88. Thence along by tlie Rink hedge of the said “ Ashley t Heyes, till we come to Trent side. 84. Thence all along by Trent side till we come to that Blithmeadow, adjoining to Bishton Mires, where we first set forth and l)egann. Ye names of ye Jury summoned to a])]Dear at ye <>reat Leet and Court Baron of ve Rt. Honourable ^ • ve Lady Gertrude Aston, holden at Colton, ye lotli day of October, Idol, a.d. Tm})rimis. — Sampson Boughey, Gent. Jurat. George Butler, Ralph Bate, George Bate, Humphrey Webb,' Richard Butler, Robert Pegg. Jurt. -Jurt. Thomas Taylor, George W right, j un . Thomas Pedley. John Pedley, John Hall. Jurt. Jurt. * Bawlk, an untilled ridge of land dividing two cultivated portions. t Evidently the south-east border of Colton, adjoining the Trent. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 228 George Baggaley, George Wright, sen. '^Jurt. Charles Wild. These 8 not sworn. Humphrey Marler. Richard Whistoii. Roger Wilks. Ed. Robinson. Wm. Sante. Thomas Lees Robert Taylor. John Wakelin. N.B. — The boundaries of Colton parish were perambulated for the last time in 1814 a.d. Mrs. Elizabeth Handy is our authority for this statement, and a better could not be desired. Account of various sales of land made liy the xVstons to tlie Bagot family and others, taken from a })aper lielonging to Lord Bagot (dated 1774) drawn up to correct certain doubts raised by Sir Walter Blount’s agent respecting the hounddries of ^ Little Hay ’ Manor, Colton 8 Marcli, 16b9. — By conveyance from the Aston fam ihj oi t\ie Old Fark'^'' in Colton to Sir HerYoy Bagot, in trust for Richard Ifagot and his heirs, in consideration of £660. 80 June, 1660. — By conveyance from the Aston family of a close called the ^^Moor,” in Colton, to Sir Harvey Bagot in fee, in con- sideration of £240. 21 & 22 September, 1691. — By do. from Do. of the “ Hurst Wood ” and Colton Hadley’s,” and 224 .SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Low Corner ” in Colton to Sir Walter Bag'ot, for £42t). [There was some uncertainty whether this last was within the Manor. The witness, an old man named Brown, thought it was ] 22 September, 1 681. — By conveyance from the A.ston family, the Blythebury Closes.” in the tenure of Simon Pedley, were granted to Thomas Whitgreave, Esq. 20 January, 1602. — By do. from Do., the Pear Tree Field,” Long Field,” and “ Little Stubble,” to Tho. Pegg. 20 January 1652. — By do. from Do., the “Ox Close,” in Newlands, and a part (jf “ Blyth Ford ” House farm, to Joan Adderley. 27 April, 1658.- -By do. from Do. a me.ssuage at Blyth Ford, to Thomas Sherratt. 17 September, 1659. — By do. from Do., a cottage at Stockwell Heath, to John Pedley ; rent 6d. 17 September, 1759. — By do. from Do., “ Cutler’s Croft,” to Wm. Lowe. Royalist Com])osition Papers, 1st Series, vol.4, p. 526. 1648-9, Feby. L, Colton. By the Committee for Sequestrations. Wliereas this Committee did the last year lett the * i.e., The corner between Featherbed Lane and Brakenhill Lane. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 225 estate of The Rt. Honble. The Lady Aston her third part, and tlie annuities to her children allowed for the summe of £264 to be payed to the Treasurer. It is now ordered that, in regard the said estate is much impaired by tillage, that it can not yield the profit it did formerly, she shall hold the said estate for the yeare ensuing, yielding and paying, there- for, to the said Treasurer the summe of £226 18s. 4d. And to be allowed out of the same two parts in three of all the Parliamentary Taxes, wch shall be assessed or imposed upon the jiremises during the said term. H. Agarde, Cler. Concil. Stafford. Vol. 4, p. 528. April 2, 1850. By the Commissioners for Sequestracions for the County of Stafford. Whereas two parts of the estate of Gertrude Lady Aston, Widdowe, are sequestered by reason of her recusancie. It is ordered by this Comittee that the said Ladie shall hould the saide parts for this present yeare, paying and discharging all annuities issuing out of the saide estate, and to this Comittee the some of £220. The one moytie in hand and the other moytie at Michaelmas next, and likewise paying all Parliamentarie taxes for the whole estate, the other third part due to herself, &c. John Ley, Agent to the Commisvsioners. 226 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Vol. 4, p. 530. To the Honble. the Commissioners for Compounding with Delinquents. Tliese are to certify your Honours, that wee have upon an exact survey of tlie Lady Aston’s estate, Widdow, leased the same for the next yeare ensewing to Robert Robotham, gent., for the rent of £365. And wee do further upon request humbly certify that there hath beene yeerely the some of £14U allowed for the maintenance of 3 of her younger children, by Walter Lord Aston, deceased, her husband, by former Comittees ; but, refer it to your Honours to establish or disallowe the same, as it shall seeme fitt to you, huinldy submitting it to youre grave consideracons, and subscribe ourselves Your humble servants, [Signed] J. Danvers. John Pierce. Stafford, January 31, 1650. Vol. 4, p. 531. 2 Febry., 1650. 1 Henry Agard, Clarke to the late Comittee for Sequestracons in the Countie of of Stafford, do make oath that the said Comittee having sequestered 2 parts in 3 of the estate of the Rt. Honble. Dame Gertrude Aston, the relict of The Rt. Honble. Walter Lord Aston, deceased. Mr. Herbert Aston one of her younger sons, claymed the estate to himself, and other the children, given to them by their late Father — and the Comittee forbearing to allow them till they had perused the deeds, the said AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 227 Mr. Herbert Aston produced them, and thereupon the Comittee did allow them the said annuities. Feb. 26, 1650. Vol. 4, p. 524. The Humble Peticon of Dame Gertrude Aston, the relict of Walter Lord Aston, deceased. Sheweth, — That two parts of three of your Petitioners estate, in the County of Stafford, being sequestered for her recusancy. Your Petitioner became constantly a tenant to the same at a full and rack rent, that the said lands lying for the most part upon tillage, and the ground soe barren that noe profit can be raysed out of it, but by great industry and extraordinary charges ; and therefore, your Petitioner the last summer was at great charges in tillage and manureing and lost the then summer’s profit to make it ready for come, and in September last, being the proper season, did sow a great part of it with Wheate and Rye. That your Commissioners have lately contracted with one Robt. Robotham, for the said estate for the yeare ensuing, to begin at 25th March next, by which means your Petitioner is like not only to loose all her charges she hath bin at in tillage, and the last summer’s profit, but also the come which she hath sowne, and no advantage arise by it to the estate, but losse for the future. Your Petitioner, likewise, hath constantly had allowed her by the former Committee, as likewise by the now Commissioners in the county of Stafford, the sume of £140, being an annuity charged upon her joynture by the husband of your 228 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Petitioner, Walter Lord Aston, deceased, for the maintenance of lier younger (*.liildren ; but now by the Commissioners denied, affirming it not to be in their })Ower without your honours order and allowance to grant it, otherwise willing, as by them acknowledged just and due, they having perused the evidence, as by the affidavit of Henry x^garde, Clarke to the former Committee, hereunto annexed it doth appeare. Your Petitioner therefore humbly prayeth that your Honours, considering the justness of her petition, the certificates of the Committee and Commissioners hereunto annexed, and that sixteen of her grand- children have the most part of their livelyhood from her, that she may hould her estate as formerly, or have satisfaction for the charges she was att in her tillage and for her losse (jf the last summer’s, protitt, and the former allowance for her children, and liberty to reape her come. Or if your Honours shall doubt and conceive that anything is prejudicial to the profit of the State, that you will graunt a power to the Commissioners in the countrey to heare and determyn the case ; your Petitioner and the wit- nesses to the said deeds of annuitye, being soe aged that they cannot possibly be able to come to London. And your Petitioner will ever pray, &c. Gertrude Aston. Referred to Mr. Readinge and the Commissioners in the countrey to proceed according to instructions. April 16th, 1651. Simon Smith of the city of AYestminster, gent.. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 229 make til oath before the Commissioners for Compound- ing, &c., that he did see Sir Walter x\ston, Knight and Baronett, seale and deliver the 3 Several! deeds now showed unto him, at or neare about the time of the dates thereof, and that he did then endorse his name on the back side of them as a witnesse to the sealinge and deliveringe of them. [Signed] Simon Smyth. June 18, 1651, vol. 4, p. 540. Upon the peticon of Herbert Aston, John Aston, and Grertrude Aston, three of the children of Walter Lord Aston, deceased (hereunto annexed). It is ordered that it be referred to Mr. Readinge to propoes and examine the matter of the said Petitiou and state and report the case to us. [Signed] Edw. Winslow. Ric. Moore. June 18, 1651 a.d. To the Honourable Commissioners for Compounding. The humble petition of Herbert Aston, John Aston, and Gertrude Aston, 3 of the Children of Walter Lord Aston, deceased. Sheweth, — That the Petitioners’ father, Walter, Lord Aston, by 3 several deeds of annuitee, all of them bearing date 19 November, 1625, did give and grant out of all his manor of Colton, in the County of Stafford, to the Petitioner, Herbert Aston, £50 a yeare during his life, to John Aston £50 a yeare during his life. 230 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON to Gertrude Aston £40 a yeare during her life. That the said inannor of Colton had been for several yeares, and still is, under sequestracon for the recusancie of Dame Gertrude Aston, mother to the Petitioners, and that the former Committees have allwayes upon tlu^ pe'rusall of the sayd deeds of annuitye, suffered your Petitioners quietly to enjoy their said severall and respective annuities according to the said deeds. But the now Commissioners for Sequestrax'.on in the sayd countie of Stafford have lately refused to allow the said severall annuities, alledging that it is not in their power to do it without direcon and order from your Honors. The Petitioners humbly move that upon proofe made of their sayd deeds before your Honors, their said several annuities, and the arrears thereof, may be allowed them as formerly, and that they may have your order for the receiving and quiet enjoying of their said annuities out of the sayd inannor of Colton according to their father’s grant. And your Petitioners shall pray, &c. Referred to Mr. Readinge. T. Bayley. Royalist composition Papers, 1st series, vol. 4, p. 535. According to your order of the 16th June, 1650 A.D., upon the petition of Herbert Aston and John Aston, sonnes, and of Gertrude Aston, daughter, of Walter Lord Aston, deceased, desireing allawnnce of each of tlieir annuities, out of the AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 231 manor of Colton, in the County of Stafford, now sequestered for the recusancy of Dame Gertrude Aston, widow, their mother. I finde that the said Walter Lord Aston, by the name of Sir Walter Aston, of Tixall, in the said county of Stafford, Knight and Barone tt, by his deed indented bearing date the 19th of November, 1625, did give and graunt unto the said Herbert Aston one annuity of yearly rent of 50li., issuing out of the mannor of Colton in the said county of Stafford, and divers messuages, lands, and tenements in Colton and Blithbury in the said county, Hal)end to the said Herbert Aston and his assignes for his natural life, paiable quarterly, at Xmas, Lady-day, Midsomer, and Michaelmas, by equall porcons; the first payment to be made at such of the quarter daies as should first happen after the death of Sir W. Aston. And by his like deed of the same date did give and graunt unto the said John Aston a like annuity of £50 out of the same mannor and lands, during his life, paiable as aforesaid. And by his like deed indented of the same date did give and graunt unto the said Gertrude Aston oue annuity or yearly rent of £40, out of the same mannor and lands during her life paiable as aforesaid. In each of which deedes there is contained a power of Benvention by the graunter during his life by any writeing signed with his hand, or by his last will and testament, as by the said three deeds now produced, under tlie hands and seales of the said Sir W. Aston, and deposed by Symon Smith, gent., a witness endorsed thereupon. 232 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON to be sealed and delivered at or near the date ap- peareth. And it is deposed by Henry Agarde, gent., Clark to the late Committee of Stafford, tliat the said Com- mittee sequestered two parts in three of the said Dame Gertrude Aston, and Mr. Herbert Aston, one of her younger sonnes, claimed certaine annuities, amounting to 140li., issueing out of the estate to himself and other the children by their late father’s gift ; and tlie Committee forbearing to allow them till they had produced the deeds, Mr. Aston produced them, and thereupon the Committee did allow them the said annuities. And it is certified by the present Commissioners of Stafford, the 31st day of January, 1650, that they had upon an exact survey let the said Ladie’s landes this yeare for £365, and that they finde that there hath bene yearly 140li. allowed by the former Committee, for the maintenance of 3 of the younger children, but refer it to you to establish or dis-allow the same. And I finde that the Commissioners for Stafford the 2nd of April, 1650, did order that the said Lady Aston should hold the said two partes for that yeare, shee })rying and discharging all annuities goeing out, of the same, and paying all Parliamentary taxes for the whole estate under the rent of £220 to the Committee. Soe it is submitted to judgment Avhether the Peticioners shall not be allowed two third parts of the said £140 annuities out of the Commonwealth’s AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 238 two parts of the estate, the said Lady paying the third part thereof out of her estates. Signed, 3rd Sept^*" ’ 1651, Jo Readinge. 1651. — after Sept^"* 1st. Order book of the Commissioners for compounding. p. 100. Upon reading ye petition of Herbert Aston, John Aston, and Grertrude Aston, children of Walter Lord Aston deceased, and ye report of Mr. Reading made in ye case touching their clayme to severall annui- ties out of ye Manor of Coulton, in ye county of Stafford, now sequestered for ye recusancy of Dame Uertrude Aston widdow, and their mother (a copie of which report, &c.) and perusall of our order of ye 11th of March last, made upon hearing ye said repoi-t, at which tyme we were not satisfied in ye proof e, and reading ye returne of ye Commissioners for Sequestrations in Staffordshire, pursuant to our said order of ye lltli of March last and upon con- sideracon of ye whole matter, we thinke fitte and soe order that ye said annuities be and are hereby allowed, but in regard ye saide children are all recusants, the said Commissioners in ye county of Stafford are to allow them only one third part of their respective annuities, and to pay them only two parts of that third part of their respective annuities 234 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON and ye other third part to be paid by ve Lady Aston out of ye third enjoyed by her. A. S. J. R. R. M. E. W. 1652 A.D., April 30th. Gentlemen, According to your order of 11th of March last in the case of Herbert Aston and John Aston sonnes, and Gertrude Aston daughter to Walter Lord Aston deceased wee have examyned uppon oath William Collins of Coulton in this countie yeoman, who saith that about one yeare before Edgehill Battle by^ the command of Gertrude Ladie Aston widdoAve, late wife to the said Lord Aston, deceased, and mothei' to the said Herbert, John, and Gertrude, he did pay in London to the saide John Aston the somme of 25li., for one halfe yeare’s rent of his the said John Aston’s annuitie of 501i. a yeare. And that the said Lord Aston dyed in or about x4ugust, 1639. The same day the said Herbert Aston and John Aston did voluntarily offer to take their corporall oaths, that betweene the death of the said Lord Aston their ffather, and the time of the sequestracon of the said Ladie Aston their mother (being about foure yeares), they did constantly receive from her the said Ladie Aston their severall annuities of oOli. a yeare. And the said Herbert xAston did then pro- duce before us an ould l)ook of accompts, which menconed the payment of 25li. to the said Herbert AND OF THE DE WA8TENEYS FAMILY. 285 Aston by the said Ladie Aston in 1639, and the like somes of 251i. at severall other tymes. And the said Ladie Aston saith uppon her oath that since the death of the saide Lord Aston, her late husband, she hath everie yeare paid to her sonne Herbert Aston for his annuitie 501i. a yeare, and to her sonne fJohn Aston oOli. a yeare, and to lier daughter (xertrude Aston 40li. a yeare, and that the saide Lord Aston dyed the 12th day of August, 1639. We doe further certitie that the said Herbert Aston, John Aston, and Gertrude Aston are recusants. Gentlemen we are your very affectionate servants, ( Signed) Tho. Gent, John Pierce. Stafford the 30th of Aprill, 1652. Endorsed “ For the Honble. Commissioners for Compounding at Haberdashers Hall, these pr sent ffor the service of the State.” 1652. Aug. 4. To the Honble. Commissioners for Compounding, The humble Peticon of Herbert Aston, John Aston and Gertrude Aston, children to Walter Lord Aston deceased — Sheweth Tliat yr Petrs, did formerly apeale to yr Honnrs to have their severall annuities allowed them, granted by their deceased father, and upon the 236 .SOME ACCOUNT OP^ COLTON hearing of the saide apeale, you did order the said annuities to be allowed, in case the Ptrs. were not recusants, and thereupon the Commissioners for sequestracon in the counties of Stafford have certeffed that your Petrs, are all recusants. 'They therefore humbly pray your order to be said Commissioners for the countie of Stafford to allow them their thirds, according to Act of Parlia- ment, being sequestered for recusants only. And yr Petrs, shall pray. (Signed) Herbert Aston, John A.ston, Gtertrude Aston. 4th Aug., 1652. Upon reading ye report in ye case, and ye late returne of ye Coinrs. in answer to our’s of ye 11th of March, Resolved that we do allow ye annuities and order ye Comrs. to allow a third to ye respec- tive party es, of which third parte of ye respective annuityes ye .said Comrs. are to pay two partes, and ve Lady one part out of ye third allowed her. 1652. Oct. 19th. ^ To the Honble. Commissioners for Compound- ing,’ The Humble peticon of William Wandle, gent, Shewc'th — That yr Petr having ])urchased of Herbert Aston of (Jolton in the county of Stafford gent, one annuitye or yearly rent charge of 80li., per annum AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 287 issueing out of the estate of Sir John Thimelby at Irnhain in ye county of Lincohie, and now under sequestracon as ye said Sir John’s estate. Yr Honrs the 29th of June last referred the stateing thereof to Mr. Brereton, who cannot proceed therein without a certificate from the Cmrs. of Lincohie where the estate lyes. Your Petr, tlierefore prayes that they may bee empowered to examine such witnesses as shall bee produced for proof e of his sayd interest to the said rent charge, and the payment thereof to him, and alsoe that they may examine yr Petr, touching the same, and certefye ye same to yor Honors. And yr Petr, shall pray, &c. (Signed) William Wardle. 19th Oct. 1652. At the Council Chamber, Whitehall. 16 July, 1679 a.d. Present — The Lord Archbp. of Canterbury. The Lord Chancellor. Earl of Sunderland. Lord President Earl of Essex. Lord Privy Seal Viscount Falconbridge. Marquis of Worcester. Viscount Halifax. Earl of Bridgwater. Lord Roberts. Mr. Secretary Coventry. Mr. Chancellor of ye Exchequer. SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON 2:i8 Upon reading* this day at the board the humble petition of Sir Simon Degge, Knt., setting forth that his grandson and heir apparent, Simon Boughey Degge, being a tender infant of two years old, is in the tuition of his mother, who, Ijeing now married to Mr. Thomas Whitgreave of Moseley and become a Papist, brings up the petitioner’s said grandson and heir in her religion, to his great trouble and grief, and therefore praying that his said grandson might be delivered to him to l)ee Ijrought up and instructed in the Protestant religion. It was ordered by his Majestie in Council that a coppy of the petition bee delivered to the said Mr. Whitgreave, who is hereby required to attend this board the first council day in October next, to show cause why the child should not be delivered upp to the petitioner as desired. Signed John Nicholas. (Indorsed in the handwriting of Thomas Whit- greave, Septbr. 20th being Saturday, I was served with the order.”) Lord Aston ... Mr. Chetwynd Mr. Green Mr. Launder Thomas Taylor Parchfield . . . . 1 0 . 1 2 . 0 6 . 0 1 . 0 1 AND OF THE UE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 239 Humphrey Webb William Collins Robert Taylor 0 1 0 Oi 0 01 3 O ±2 “ For year 1659 a. d. assessed.’’ Copy of a Lown for poor £ s. cl. Mr. Chetwiiid, 3 lowns ... 1 8 8 Mr. Green and Mr. Saunders* ... 011 3 Mr. Aston ... ... ... 1 4 4 Thomas Kendrick and others, for Parchheld ... . . 023 Mr. Laundor ... ... ... 0 1 5 Humphrey Webb .. ... 0 1 5 Thomas Buttler ... ... 0 0 7 William Collins... ... ... 0 0 5 Thomas Taylor... ... ... 0 1 2 Robert Taylor . . . ... 005 £3 12 0 Copy of a Poor’s rate, March 11, 1769. _ , w n rglebe and tithes ... Rev. Mr. Landori I Castle croft Mr. Webb, one moiety of tithe corn ... Wm. Winnington, clerk’s house and land s. d. £ s. d. 16 0 0 17 0 4/ 0 13 4 0 0 8 * Then Rector of Colton. 240 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Mrs. Stych - Mr. 'His honour Clitford’s Farm Mr. Emery’s, late Butler’s land Lea Meadow .Cook’s Trent Field /"The old wood Mr. Anson’s land ... The Parchfields late Woollams late Mr. Pegg’s land Wright’s Sentaff Field Mr. Marsh, Colton Mill, &c. .. Mrs. Spencer, Mr. Whitgreave’s Farm Wm. Robinson, do. (late Dickenson’s ... Matthew Smith George Grime, Mr. Sneyd’s land /The Parks, and Sentaff Coppice Mrs. Tho. Sherratt] Blyth Ford Wilde’s Jate Butler’s John Rowley, his house and land John Smith, His honour Clifford’s farm Tho. Hitchenson, do. ... 'Mr. Pegg’s Farm ... Mr. Whitgreave’s Deggs Leasow ... Jeffrey Avarne’s Long Metz Mr. Biddulph’s Farm ... late Woollams Samuel Toon, Mr. Holland’s Farm ... { Sir Wm. Bagot’s land ditto Shepherd s crott Thomas Harvey, Mr. Holland’s farm Mrs. Bakewell, Walkaden’s ... Thomas Wright James Fox s. d. 14 2 I 6 0 4 0 10 17 6 , 6 1 1 4 2 5 1 8 0 5 3 8] 0 Ilf 5 8 5 2 0 9 0 4 . 11 0 6 0 9 4 4 '| 0 Ilf 2 10 ] 0 2f £ s. d. 0 16 10 1 9 5 0 4 8 0 15 0 0 1 10 0 4 7 0 0 4 0 11 11 0 0 6 0 5 7 0 4 4 0 12 9 0 5 3 0 10 4 0 3 0 0 0 10 0 0 4 AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. Edward Wildey Jos. Taylor Low’s John Hitchenson fSir Wm. Bagot’s John M^arstonJ I late Woollams rSir Wm. Bagot’s ... Francis feherrattJ I Mr. Hodgson s William Flint, late Bromley’s Mr. Whitgreave’s ... Parnell Meadow ... John Ailsbury (sen.), Rudgley School land I Sir Wm. Bagot’s Ashen Croft ^Crabtree Flat Mr. Hodgson’s Park side &c. Sentaff Leasow . . . ^Low’s Fowels John Gaunt The Low houses { Mr. Webb’s Farm The Bigger Low The Lesser Low „ fMr. Hodgson’s Lawn Ric. Willescroft J Mate Philipps Mr. Parr, Sir Wm. Bagot’s farm (Manor o Little Hay) ... Mr. Jos Parr, his house and land ^ fMr. Whitgreave’s land ... Widow LowJ , 1 late Marston s house and land . Wm. Knight, House and land Jos. Knight, House and land... Sarah Jackson, Mr. Emery’s house and land fHis own house and land 1 late Woollum’s croft 0 Webb’s ... ... 0 Marshal’s House ... 0 Bradbury’s and Richardson’s ... 0 Jate Salt’s land ... 0 Geo. Hayward (sen.) d. 5 / 8 8 0 6 4J 2 ] 10 3 4 ] 7) 3 9 3 6 11 241 £ s. d. 0 1 5 1 0 9 0 7 6 0 1 9 0 1 4 0 1 4 0 3 10 0 0 4 0 9 2 0 6 1 0 18 11 0 1 0 0 0 7 0 0 4 0 0 4 0 0 10 0 4 3 242 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON s. d. £ s. d. rSalt’s and Tooth’s \ Geo. Hayward (jun,) ^ houses 0 5 0 8 iBardel’s house 0 3. ) Mr. Wright r Handley’s house 1 Ball’s ... 0 0 2' 5 1 ^ 1 1 IRushton’s Sentaff leasow 0 6. ) Geo Hill, Jeffrey’s Mare Park 0 0 2 Anthy. Rushton, late Burden’s house 0 0 4 Widow Hunt, her house and land 0 0 3 John Yeates, The Raddle Pit house [i.e. Hamley) 0 0 6 John Hayward, Mr. Webb’s house and croft 0 0 4 Richard Radford, Mr. Webb’s house and land 0 1 0 rHis house and land 9 1 John Gomm, Esqre. 1 Sarah Hunt’s house 0 4 10 4 1 Town's end^ house 0 5] 1 Mr. Hodgson, Sir Wm. Bagot’s house and land 0 0 5 rhis own house and land 2 0^ late Wilde’s 1 8 Mr. Emery < late Butler’s 0 4 ' 0 5 2 Gosmother Reins 0 4 ^Bradshaw’s land 0 10 The Low house and land 0 0 3 Widow Till, her house and land 0 0 4 Francis Holt, late Webb’s house, &c. 0 0 6 Mr. Kin son, Mr. Sneyd’s land 0 4 2 Edw. Wotton, Sir Wm. Wolseley’s land 0 0 3 John Sneyd, Esqre, ditto 0 0 111 Robt. Smith, ditto 0 0 m Mr. Harper, The Parch Fields 0 2 0 Mr. Avarne, The Old Fall 0 2 2 Robert Landor, Esqre., his own land 0 7 7 Now niLs-called Bellanioiir-end. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 243 £ s. d. £ s. d. ^Mr. Anson’s Farm 2 0 \ Sir Wm. Bagot’s Hurst woods 0 5 6 Mrs. Emery^ O her own house and land 0 5 0 o 11 11 '^Sentaff* Leasow ... 0 0 10^ 1 John Muxon, both parts of the Nettles 0 0 3 Wm. Yeates, Belcher’s Martlin* 0 0 8 1 fMr. Webb’s Farm 1 2 1 Mrs. Clarke] Mr. Hodgson’s ... 0 4 2 ' 9 6 1 Jate Woollam’s ... 0 3 iJ 1 Total £18 0 0 * The Martliii was formerly divided lengthways into two fields. 1730 A.D. Mr. Whitgreave’s estate : — Ye Great Moor... 16 acres. Moor Meadow ... 3 acres. Crow Moor Meadow . 5 acres. Ye Blind Pool, or Pool Yard ... f acre. Ye Oatcroft H acres. Moorf Leate acres. 2. Hamley Lease ws 14 acres. Crab Tree Flats 6 acres. Child’s Oak H acres. All the Lounts ... 58 acres. Ye Lawn Meadow 10 acres. Wilderley Meadow .. 10 acres. 2. Stockings about 3 acres. 2. Trent Fields ... 8 acres. Ea-Meadow Gap ... 11 acre. t Leate = “ division.' 244 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Jacob’s Croft ... Hamley Stones Meadow Pryor’s Meadow Mr. Pegg’s Longmetts and Moseley’s Longmetts* Low’s Fo wells .. Joyce Marson’s Croft ... Windmill Field Leasow^- Bradshaws Ashen Croft Pegg’s Mill -ditch About 8 acres in 2 Handey Fields Wilderley Hall... .. ... 1 acre. And about one day’s work at Morton Lane End. 1780 A.D. John Taylor, T. Whitgreave. Four pieces of land called Marshea Flatts, rented by John Sherratt from Sir Walter Bagott. 1^ acre. 1 acre. 12 acres. 7 acres, f acre. 4^ acres. 6 acres. 8 acres. From time to time certain exchanges have been effected in the glebe lands, as the following account, taken from a terrier dated 1726 a.d., if compared with their present situation, will plainly show. For convenience sake the various small pieces would be * L-Metz = i/on^ Enclosure^ from Metaii — to measure, probably, t Leasow, from La's = a pasture. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 245 put together, so far as was found practicable when, those fields were first inclosed : — Terrier of 1726. 1. Rectory, outbuildings and gardens, &c., about acres. 2. Bishton Leasow,” acres. 3. Ludget,” 9^ acres. (This Mr. Seaton ex- changed with Mr. Horsfall for ‘^The Holms,” to their mutual benefit.)* 4. “ The Hollow Dale,” about 4 acres. 5. ^^New,” or Little Intack,” about 2f acres. 6. Further,” or ^‘Bigger, Intack,” about 5 acres. 7. Hamley Stones ” meadow, or ^ The Moors,” about 8 acres. 8. A piece in the middle of Hamley Leasow,” about ^ acre. 9. A piece in Hamley Field,” about j acre. 10. Four butts in “ Sentaff Field,” about ^ acre. 11. A piece of a butt also in ‘^Sentaff Field,” about 29 perches. 12. Tinkers Flat,” in ‘‘Sentaff Field,” about ^ acre. 13. “ Middle Flat,” in “ Sentaff Field,” about ^ acre. 14. “ Sentaff Leasow,” about 2 acres. 15. Two acres in a common meadow called “ Sleetings.” 16. Another acre also in the same “ Sleetings.” 17. An acre abutting on the Trent in a common * Tithe Map. Adjoining lodge on Bishton-road. 246 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON meadow, called “ Hay Meadow,” or Ea-meadow,” or Ey-meadow.” 18. A chequer ])iece also in the same, equal to about half-an-acre. 19. A shoulder piece also in the same, equal to about half-an-acre. 20. A small piece, -8 yards square, in ‘^Crofts Lease w.” 21. Longmets,” about four acres. Four acres of land were alloted to Mr. Landor, then rector, out of the Marsh,” adjoining the Castle Croft,” in exchange for the tithes on the inclosed lands which were surrendered by him, as previously pointed out. The Castle Croft was bought trom Mr. Power, and added to the glebe in exchange for Bishton Leasow. The deed is in the possession of the patron. Vinson’s Hollow Dale,” about 8 acres, was left for ever to the rector of Colton, for payment of a yearly rent of £2 to the school, and £1 for the Good Friday dole. (It was bought from Vinson by Mr. Taylor.) The following letters taken from the Domestic Series of State Papers,” and from the rixall Collection,” were written either to or from Colton Hall and Bellamore. They contain so much information concerning the Aston family, then the Lords of the Manor, tliat no account AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 247 of Colton could be considered complete with- out them. State Papers : Domestic Series, B.M. Sir Walter Aston to Secretary Conway. Colton^ 24th, 1 627 a.d. Having spent many years in the king’s service, and intending, being now without employment, to return and settle to a country life as soon as His Majesty’s bounty should enable him to live any- where, it would have been a great comfort to him if the king had been pleased to honour his ancient liouse of Tixall ; l)ut, since he is otherwise resolved, he submits to his pleasure, and accepts his grace and goodness in the kind in which it is offered. Is much comforted to hear of the constant resolution to repair his estate. His debts were caused by his employments, ancL sale of lands towards the dis- charge thereof. The king’s promise of £14,000 in two years expires on July 20th next. Sir Walter Aston to Secretary Conway. Colton^ Septbr. 18, 1627. The king \i.e. Charles I.] having during his [Sir W. Aston’s] employment in Spain being a suitor to his father [King James] to make Sir Walter an English Baron, he hoped to have received that mark of his favour when it was in his power to confer it on him. When the king resolved to dispose of 248 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON him in another way he suljinitted ; and His Majesty having now expressed his desire that he sliould pur- eliase land in Scotland, he will do so out of his promised bounty. Relates his course of employ- ment on the recommendation of the Duke [Bucking- ham]. He spent four parts of five of his estates in that service, and has now been for three years altogether neglected. The king had promised on July 20, 1626, to bestow on him £14,000 in two years. Begs that he and his house, after many descents, may not utterly perish by the king’s service, and earnestly solicits the assistance of Lord Conway. 1627. October 20. Lord Conway to Attorney- General Heath. To prepare a bill for making Sir M^alter Aston Baron of Forfar, in Scotland.’* Letter from the 1st Lord Aston to Catherine Thimelbv on her marriage to his second son Herbert Aston. Good Dawter, You have sett so great a valew of estimation upon my good affections to you and your husband, that I am in payn and ashamed I cannot make it good with such reall actions of advantage unto you as you deserve. I can not promise you success, for I am not master of it ; but you may rest confident my care and uttermost endevor shall not be wantino-. You come into a family, although united in trew AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 249 affection one unto another, yet devided in the con- dition of our fortune ; my wife in one place, my son Aston in another, and I in a tliird ; and in the worst a poore suter at court, with a painfull in- fermitie for my companion. This division I am now more sensible of by what you must suffer in it. For althouorh we mio*ht do somethino* handsomelie together, it cannot be so in this separation and division of our abode. Your goodness, I hope, will understand things aright, and give yourself those easies which are wished unto you iu a more plentiful manner. AYith my affectionat respects I rest, your loving father to serve you WA. Aston. Mulb. Gard. ye 9th of Xber, 1638. From Katherine Aston to her husband Herbert Aston, written as it seems from Bellamore. Deare Mr. Aston, Since you comaunded it, I can with les difficulty talke of myself though now the last subject of my thoughts, and tell you I find my self almost cur’d of the infermetye you apprehended most, though your going caused a far greater. I canot absolutely say, the doctor did it, till my continuing well warrant that, because you know I have many times bin well for a day or two, and then againe as ill ; but being presently so after folowing his prescriptions, gives me some hope I shall continue so. This I should not tell you if I feared it would prolong your 250 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON absence, that causes a sofering so beyond sickness poure : be not angry I say this, unless you will be I rite at all. For niy lines to you and the expression of my thoughts, are vowd to be unseparable, and thoe I do not s])eak tliem fully, your perfect love will reade out of my character such a one which the les knowing could not perceave by them. Thus love for love will su})ply all other wants as you doe for mee in this, and a thousand other ways. What can I restore but a hart so onely yours ’tis vowed to know no joy but what you bring, nor no sorrow but what is yours, which 1 hope this absence is since it takes so great hould there ; indeede, I know nothing more impossible, than that I could live long without you, who onely love life for you. How esely else could I l)reake off all tyes of my love to it or the world, did not you so forcibly make me dote on both ; which you nede have no scruple ou, since your merets did it, ’tis my fault if 1 have converted them to an ill use ; besides . I would give you some of my liope, tlmt that daily example which I shall se in you of good, shall so wholy poses my love, I shall so far folow it to love it for itself ; since goodness and you being so undeviduall, take my love to make the perfect number 8, as three perfecter the world not beares tlian your self, your goodness and the love of Your hapy wife and servant, Katherin Aston. My Immblest duty to m}^ Lord, Worlds would I leve were I one of tliem to be AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 251 secured of your constant preference. Doe so much as send Mr. Lovet that lives over against St. Dunston Church, twelve shillings that I ought him for seting my diomond claspe. I am in such feare something will still defer your coming downe. I can- not get a minute fre, but now there gon to bowls. My lirother Persall, and my sister, are here, but goe of tewsday to Tixall, to expect my Lady Mary’s good houre of delivery. My sweet sister Fowler, I here, comes to-morrow, but when I shall se her I know not. Oh ! the happiness of talking to her, who so well will fele my mesery in your absence. “ Since all that can be given is no delight, To that you give, and I find in your sight.” Twang, but trew. My brother Persall remembers him to you much. To think of a fortnight before I se you is unsoferable. From Katherine Aston to her husband. Deare Mr. Aston, In my last, I tould you the feares I was in that I should have receav’d no leter from you. This must tell you that upon Wensday I receav’d one from you, which was write upon your first coming to towne. ’Twas without date, but so long and kind, it might have made me a leter for every one of those days I sofered so much by the want of it ; ’tis well you indevor to restore those joys you have destroyed in me by this ere well absence, for nothing but your desire to have me mery could make me desire to be so when you are absent ; therefore I may tell you I 252 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON am as much so as both our desires of it can make me, but nothing can efect it ljut your presence. I confess you have done as much as can be in promis- ing a constant continuance of it, when this mesirable probation of love is expired ; but oh I how long my lord of Holland may ke])e you, undoes all my com- forts. To-morrow I looke to heare from you some sartainty when I may expect you : indede, I am not able to think of longer, than you imagin’d it would be when we parted, and your expressions how much you sofer by it, though an unspekable hapines, proves now the increase of my sofring, espetially where you say I was accesary to it by thinking it fit. I am resolved to have no rome for anything but love hereafter, since that alone can make so compleatly hapy, and all without it canot give the least : this sofring, this absence, must teach me, and lerning perchased Ijy unhapiness can never be forgot so much to fall into the same errors againe ; there- fore, never believe I shall ere consent to part with you againe, who, ])y your sight, and dearest conversation, have the attainement of all my wislies, who am nothing. But your most affectionate lover, and humblest servant, Katherin Aston. My huml)le servis to my lady Mury, and my sister Gertrude, 1 had presented it myself to them, but that your saying nothing of them, made me un- sartaine whether tliey were in towne or not. Consider not the foolishness of this letter, but think AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 253 my thoughts : those cannot displease you. I have had some tits of daseling in my eys since I saw you ; but they shall be perfect well when you give them the perfect happiness of your sight. My sister Fowler, at St. Thomas, writ me word she was ex- tremely ill of a cold, and had kept her chamber a weeke, but that it began to leave her, she did extremly de})lore my misfortune in this jorney. Oh I the sad thoughts I have sometimes about it, by feare I shall never be so hapy againe. I doe sofer more and more every day. Consider me as I love you. From Katherine Aston to her husband. Dear Mr. Aston, I desire not to grow leane by my fasting from your deare company so long. Indeed, I indure it just as you could have me, and am feasted with thoughts you and my sister Fowler are talking of me with love ; therefore do soe still, and I will promis you I will not surht of the joy, since the greatest you have given me hath bin so far from my death, they have given me life : for I am confident I had not lived till now without them ; but I know you think it foolish to tell you what you know, and you are likely to know your own workes : but I beleve they apeare les to you than they are knowne by me. But being you would have me leave this, I must, and tell you Jack is very well and mery, though he slept but little last night ; but I was never wakned with him but ownce. Therefore be not angry 1 should have what 1 love, him so nere 254 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON me ; nothing but so dere a part of you as him with me: and your injoying another in my loved sister Fowler could make me thus well indure your absence, which I find so crewell to me in itself e, as all I have to wish is we may not, wliilst we live, be longer parted. Were I secure of this, I might safely sware none knows hapiness so much as your love and presence makes Your Katherin Aston. If you love me, speke to Mr. Daniel that he will not let my sister Fowler fast: tell him ther’s four lives concerned in it, and one of them is his most trew honored K. A. Letter to Sir Wm. Persall of Can well, the husband of her sister-in-law Frances Aston. My Deare Brother, — In bidding me farewell you give me what the word implys, much well being, in yr kindness at parting, by saying you carry me with you, or I poses so much part in your thoughts. Yet were it much my sorow if yr words were as trew as kind, and that that were yr onely comfort in this absence. I could doe what you think difficult in the philosopher, banish the joys of sence, if distances from those we love could admit the same delightful satisfactions to our reason or discorse. I think, as you, that sometimes second thoughts are best put in practise, yet is there danger constantly to think so, for so might we mis practising good iiivspirations our first thoughts sugest, and by that neglect deservedly loose the hapiness AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 255 of a second good thought. But had you now stayd for a second thought you would not think them ill natured lovers that can be plesd with their owne resolutions, because where we resolve well we may not only rong ourselves, but others, not to be con- stant to it ; nor nede we feare that homebred love you speak of to be without care and pation ; for in even our perfectest resolves, we shall find both in humaine life ; and twas a wise providence that made it so. For if Heaven be so little sought for, or thought of, in this condition, how litle had it bin if we had bin exempted from them. Nor can yr kind words brede a vanitye in me to beleve my absence can be for any time the loss of any joy to yr soule or sense, you having reason enough to know, and I to se, I meret neither ; tis onely I may feare, a los in yr kind thoughts, who had nothing to conserne them by, but that fre goodnes that will shew you many more worthy subjects to bestow them on. I think none are to be blamd for admiring, as you express, the lock and key of the cabinet nature hath for the soule, since many times tis worth it : but that our thoughts should receave a satisfaction there without loking within, I think is blame worthy (to gire the best poure of our soule the will for outward goods). But sure you mistook the word when you say, naturally we cannot love the best qualitys in a deformed creature ; sensually you ment ; but nature, if not corrupted, leades to all reason, that, to all love where merited ; tis trew we may like the exactest peice of nature where ill quality es inhabit. 256 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON but love is justly forbidden there as so above what’s there dew ; for I believe reason the onely pilot of good love, and yet it admits of pation as 1 under- stand it. Our Saviour and many of His great saints exprest it themselves ; for the feling of pation is no ill, but the imoderation in it. It seemes by your owne argument that reason and sence are remote ; that a spiret should dye in a sensitive creature, and be immortall in a rational one. But I canot deside why Grod gives Heavin to fooles and idiots who seme as sensitive as they ; tis inough to shew tis best when he doth it who is best and most knowing of what he doth. T’may be, tis the reivard of some vertue in there parents ; for if we be punishd to the third and fourth generations for our parents ofences, mercy can rech forther in rewards. I canot think it too much presumption to say we love God since tis the best gift we have the best poure of our soule. The feare, adoration, and reverence must nedes prosede from a love of God. He authorises this when he tould St. Mary Magdalin many sins were forgiven her because she loved much. Nor canot you upon second thoughts but alow religious a meret far above what we can sofer since knowledge and truth itselfe hath given them the preheniinence above our state of life. At their entrance they re- nouncd all deare to them ; and therefore* ’twas thought tit, by justice and goodness itselfe they should poses hundred-fould. We should think our- selves t’were unfit, had we a 2 )oure, the}^ should ever want anything that had given us all : how can they AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 257 mis it then from God, who rewards a cii}) of cold water given for his sake : tlius hapy tis to love Him who rewards our gift, so much of which was his owne, by so many and just titles before. You may approve the pilot that governs His ship in a trebled stoi-me, but you may say he is wiser who doubts him self e so much never to come there. I believe short diet, want of slepe, corse linen, and yr trebles of mind may have much outgone those sofrings ; but they have a will to be mortified in all for God ; and I feare (Ijy my selfe I give this judgment) you have a desire to be without them. I beleve with you, they enjoy a calme and peace the world canot give, a heaven on earth ; but I believe too they have deserved it better. For if, as you say, to be lessend in one’s enjoyments be the greatest paine, to find joys in all these willing mortefecations must needs be the greatest pleasure. Nor are we disalowed to love handsome ceatures, jwovided the intencion be good ; for nothing is a right object for love but goodnes. But I see in that question you were afrayed of transgressing the bounds of [good love] Belamore, which you so kindly wisli extended to Canwell ; and I and Mr. Aston believe you and my sister give us large possessions in yr good will to us: that which we more justly valew than those possessions you wished us. You hapyly resolve the contemplative and sufring life to fear God, but let love to Him first make you doe so ; for love always includes feare, but not always feare love ; therefore to love all the world resembles God best. That you 258 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON and my sister shall ever have my harteest wishes of all of joys to you both, you canot dowt, who have so much obliged Mr. Aston and me. Yr most affectionate servant, Katherin Aston. [Note. I — At the bottom of this letter Mr. Clifford found pinned with some rusty pins a small bit of paper, with these words : “I hope you thought upon me of St. Simon and St. Jude’s Day, the six- teenth yeare of the happiest married state can admit, for so long have I bin so.” From Winifred Thimelby to her sister Mrs. Herbert Aston. Dearest, Dearest Sister, Were it posible to be angry with you, these lins wod chide yr kind folly, in desiring my picture : for besides the idle expence, ’twas my advantage to be drawn by that neate pencil of yr love ; wch I am sure enough would flatter me in every kind. But I must confes, since you pretend to likeness, you may with more justice aske, then I deny, another painter; therefore I must yealde, and the truth is I can deny you nothing. As for the present, we are frighted with some feares of new troubles Avith you (Avritten circa 1656, during CroniAvell’s })rotectorate) if the tempest blow over you may expect to see me this Sommer. But when, O when shall I see you (/.^., here, at Louvaine). It is my dayly comfort to remember hoAV fast Ave a})})roach each other, and AND OF THE DE WASTENEY8 FAMILY. 259 that every moment dispatches some })art of the way: this makes me ccmteiit with present absence, nay, even love it. Forgive the sound of that last word, and consider the sense of it. For I pretend not to a good ex])ression, but dame yr beleefe I meane as well, as truest love can teach ; and really, sister, you cannot imagine how much the memory of you gives increase of very solid joyes. For when I looke upon the condition I might have expected, or hoped for in the world, me thinks I am so sorry ’twas noe better, noe greater, that I might have left, and contained something worthy my pretensions. But when I cast my eyes upon the tresures of my loved friends, and, in perticuler, vr sweetest selfe, I grow hugely comforted, because I’ll not allow the world could give me better. I mean kinder, dearer. Therefore you must give me leave to love our se])aration, because it helps to secure an eternall, mutuall, injoying — you must be sure to present my humblest and most affectionate service to my Lady Wesson. Tis really my cross I never deserve her sister’s kindnes ; they also have a brother here who is as kind as good. If you knew him you would know this, a very great expression : ‘ ^ The best is, they are such noble friends ; tis no paine to be obliged.” Say all you can of kindnes to my brother Aston (Herbert Aston). My hart will be sure to make it good. Is he as willing to give me a child as you ? if so, I shall have very great hopes. Be sure if I dye before you can compasse it, cheange not yr resolution : the child will loose noe happines 260 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON by want of me. I to tell you, I shewed yr letter to my Lady Mary, who sweetly blusht at that conserned herselfe. Pleased A\dth yr prety kind com})laiiit : yet Ijids me tell you, the fault was all yr owne, you were noe more acquainted, for she did covet it, but could not fasten on you, you were so extremely silent, wch 1 must confess she is not in yr praises. But, by her discourses, adds to that sea wch flowes, but never yet knew ebbe. 1 would be understood, the love of your most affectionate sister, W. T. I have not a jot of my sister’s haire : mine is too short to do anything with ; but take it as it is. The gray haires you will account my sisters, for she made them so. Grood loves Ire to Mrs. Berrington ” Katherin Aston’s.) Sweet Mrs. Berrington, — Tho I have this three weekes kept my chambre and run over a multitude of diseases, just as you may remember I used to doe every spring, and fall, having lost all sleepe and stomach ; yet tis God’s will, though so unprofitable a servant to Him, that I should have the prairs of so many affectionate frends joyned for my recovery. I believe I am now past danger : tis only one of his deare regaloes to unfasten me from creatures ; to help me see how nothing I am with all their loving helpes Avithout him : yet this remembrance he finds necessary to give me tAvice a year. The Avoiid, I confes, 1 never AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 261 lovd, but some f rends, perhaps, too much. Indeed, in my sickness, twas much my pain not to have lieard from you soe long*, who I soe faithfully and dayly wish all true joys to, and should with much joy embrace the occasion that would make me instrumentall to g-ive you any comfort, tho I feare T am of late mistaken by you ; but if you will show me any way I can give you comfort, if I doe it not then leave to believe me. Your most truly affectionate frend, Katherin Aston. By all you love let me heare quickly from you : my head and eyes are very weake yet. Pray be constant in praying for me, who noe day forget you, nor never will : would for lioth our sakes you could find them more powerfull. From Mrs. Winefrid Thimelby, Abbess of the Convent of English Nuns at Louvain, in Flanders, to Mrs. Katherine Aston, at Bellamore. Dearest, Dearest Sister, — Why, after so long a patience, will you mix my joy with such distast, to tind you shuld the least suspect a change of hart in me, because you heare not from me. 1 may as well complayne, sence tis a Avhole yeare sencce I receaved a line from you, and then I presently answered it to stopp yr kynd folly (give me leave to call it so), which desyred to have my picture drawen. Take notis, I was the last that writ : for it was then you mentioned so many jjerticulers of your new house (l^ellamore), all which 262 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON T answered : but it is not the first of mine which hath miscarried, for really, I have never mised any oportimitie which ^ave any hopes of aryving you. So carfull selfe love made me, to soe my seede, in hope to reape the pleasing fruit of your answers. But, when they fayled, I never did adniitt a thought your love did so. Sweet sister, doe the same by mee, who willingly confesse, vou goe before me, in all except a constant love : but ther, I’le give no place. Know tlierefor, though you shuld never hear from me (which yet shall never be when I can helpe it), 1 am as dayly mindful of you, my brother Aston, and yours, as of myselfe. Really, I tell you this witli as much truth as can be. It is not possible for me to forgett you one day, so much I am, and cannot chuse but bee. Your most affectionat Sister, WiNEFRII). I enjoy my health, methinkes, but too well; since itt delay es my meeting with my sister Franck [Frances Aston, 2nd wife of Sir Win. Persall, his first Avife was sister to Mrs. Winefrid ThimelbyJ. How- ever, know, I am Avon (one) of the hapiest persons living ; though still methinks I should be liapior diino^. Sweet sister, when yon rite to me. alhvaA^s give notis of how mv ladv Aston dus. Her sister, my Lady Mary Weston, desyres it of you; and really she dus so hugelly oblige me Avitli continuall kyndnis I shall l)e mitty glad to serve her in any kind. Her chambers are almost finished, and Ave liugleA^ taken with her sweet coiiA^ersation. Why did you not rite me some perticulers of your AN1) OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 263 sweet children. How dus my pore Keat with the ricketts ? Rememher T must have won (one). Oh, tell me what hopes. ... I never had line from brother Ned (Edwai-d Thimelhy, the poet,) sence he leaft you, hut heard he intended to winter hear, if brother Thimelhy ^ive leave, to whom I rite to beg that comfort ; hut hear no answer. ... I think Dick is dead, at least to me. But I cannot say, requiescat in pace. . . . Let’s always rite when we can, and have patience when we cannot, so shall we be more hapy when we meet whence agen. Know certeynly my hart can never change to you. You have many frinds who will not lett me seal my letter without encloasing ther kyndest love. Letter from Winefrid, the Abbess, to Herbert Aston, at Bellamore, shortly after Mrs. K. Aston’s death. Hond. Dear Brother, — Though you have pleased so soone to dry my tears, yet you have till’d my hart with other greafe to tind myselfe so deepely in your debte, both in regarde of my deare sister and myselfe, without hope of ever paying you till harts shall be revealed. But then, I am certaine, all which you layd out upon me will appeare dischardged upon love’s score : for ther I dewly paye. I know not what to say concerning my picture. Twas as far from my thoughts as from reason to iniagin you shud desyre it now : but since you are so strangeley kynd, methinks I should be as strangeley coye, if I should not afford my sister’s picture that advantage it will gaine by myne ; there- 264 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON fore I shall not fayle to send it. [H. Aston had written to ask for her picture to lian^ it by his wife’s, it seems.] I suffer much with vou concerning- yr great charge. I have as many hopes as you have cares : tis onely your burthen, under which T growne, as fearing you mav fainte. F^or them I rest secure, so long as God preserves them such a father ; for which I dayly pray. Therefore I silence all my owne repining thoughts, and tune them to comfort, by hope you will believe this great, though hiden truth, that I inheritt all my sister’s dearly dere respects to you, and love of your sweet little ones. Your most affectionat, though unworthy sister. Win. Thim. I fear to suffer in yr thoughts, as one to(o) much incroaching upon goodness, whylist I beg you Avill please, at yr best leysure, to send that loved relation of my sister’s death, my brother Harry so much joys to have. F^orgive me, tis a bold request. Note. — This refers to an account of the last week of his wife’s life, written by Herbert Aston, entitled, A perticuler accompt of ye most remarkable passages at ye happy end of Mrs. Ca. Aston, and wt past 7 dayes before, with some reflections on ye vertues and suffrings of her precedent life.” A particular accompt of ye most remarkable passages at ye happy end of Mrs. Ca. Aston, and what passed 7 days before, with some reflection on ye vii*tues and suffrings of her precedent life ; AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 265 [The following- aeeount was written by Herbert Aston, shortly after liis wife’s death, whieh took place at Hellaniore. | I intende not liereliy to give you a character of that blessed soule now in lieaven, whilst she lived liere on earth, tliat being already performed, nor relate to you in perticular ye practice and vertues of lier meritorious life : should 1 enlarge myself therein according to my knowledge, and as my affection would fayne leade me, should I set forth to her merrit, what a firm fayth, and right Christian assur- ance she liad in God in all occurrencyes, yt were absolutely iniprol^able and dispayring to human sen(‘.e : wt a perpetual ardency of affection to God, and to every creature of ys world, as a reflex of His goodness, with a constant contempt of ys world, and everytliing in it ; wt an invincible patience, liow indefatigalfle a devotion, how profound a humility, how sMU'et an affability ; what a knowing inno(*ency, liow stupendious and incredible a modesty and chastity : in fine how violent an aversion to all yt was ill, and how settled and estalilished a fixture to all that was good, 1 should then write a large treatise, instead of this short memento, I now only intende to God’s glory, ye lionour of her memory and ye benefit of my owne. Let it then suffice in generall to tell you, yt she had al waves a a most intent advertency, and right understending of her Ijeing ljut a pilgrim in ys transitory world, with so perfect an obedience and adherency to our Saviour’s advi(*e to us, in yt condition, of having 266 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON our loynes and our lig*lits biirnino', as mucli as to sav, promptitude in ye exercise of cliarity, and fervency in ye act of love, yt her whole life served foi* nothing* else hut y(‘ joy’d practice of ye one, and in its own willing* consumption to maintayne ye othc'i* : and in a word to sume up all : if you will li(dieve ve most ohservant astrolog*er of the motions and heautyes of ys celestiall minde, it was a serene Heaven full of stars all replenish’t with vertues and charity and chastity, ye two great luminaryes there. Yet I cannot hut pertcularise some of her suffrings in this life, they were so extraordinary and so remarkal)le, as likewise Clod’s perticular providence and favours to her, when He came at last to take moi*e ample possession of what had heen alwayes so much His : such was his infinite goodness to her, and us, that before he sealed up this jewell for him- self (indeed unfit for any other object) He made her hapj)iness as notorious, as her afflictions had heene ; and over-measured our former justly sensible sorrowes for her, with everlasting comforts ; well, that we may the lietter deserve, let us look back into her life, and wee shall see how she purchast them. She took up her cross and followed Christ, even in her childhood, I believe, before she was ten years old, and never layd it downe, but rather held it fast in \wv loving embraces, till Christ puld her from it to himselfe in the 40th yeare of her age, on the ninth of July. 1658. When he gave her possession of those joyes she all her life time had sighed after ; for in the whole 60 yeares mentioned, there past few AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 267 flays, r believe none, wherein slie suffered not some fonsideralde sickness, or pain ; few montlies that slie had not a weeke at least of extremity ; and twi(*e a yeare of late, spring- and fall, she had htts that kept her for the most part of a month in bed, with- out ease or sleepe, for 7 or (S days too-ether ; which she indured with such tranquillity of mind, and edification of her friends and servants present, as thereafter ap])eared little hope in them she could recover. At length sicknesse and paine grewe so habitual with her, or rather the grace of God, by the meritt she made by them, that every fitt (though a terror and a just sadness to all her assistants,) seemed rather to her (such was her patience, and the powerfull effects of grace in her) a recreation and joy, so would she smile on those by her, and by cheerfull expressions, as well manifest her owne comforts, as deverte and moderate their just griefs for lier. Every yeare she improved her merits, as God Almight}^ encreased her sufferings, and the last was allmost nothing els, luit an incessant martyrdome, an abstracted devotion, slie being in a manner as wholly dead to all things in this world, as she is now ; even her greatest affections formerly, and dearest relations and tyes to it, scarce enjoyed a thought from her, nor could procure more of her, upon never so inucli an inforced endearment, then a ])ittifull smile, or some short kind word ; so (H)nstant a fixure of mind she had, whether, with an assurid knowledge and secret joy she was making more hast, than her sweet nature wch (‘ould never indure 268 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON to ini]3art any thino* but joves, would permitt her to declare to any. It is true, she said often she could not liv(‘, but 1 never took it for serious she did it with that mirth in her countenance, such love in her lookes, and such kindness in her behaviour yet as I have since reflected, she joyned therewith so sad and silente sighs, as if she had remorse she had sayd so much, yet was sorry she durst say no more. About 7 weekes before her exchange of these miseryes for that crowne she had so good a title to, a dry cough, wch began some 6 weeks before that ; increast to that violent extremity, yt, being great with child too, and neare her time, it gave her intollerable and constant ])aynes, with such a short- ness of breath, that she never removed from one room to another but she indured great torment, and seemed even to labour for life, for want of breath, wch she would be about a quarter of an houre recovering, and as long ere her paines would remove ; yet would she seldome omitt (though she ])ayd so dearly for it) to goe dayly through four or five roomes, to pay those usuall respects was due from her to those she liv’d with ; nor Avas ever able for the last 6 weekes. l)y reason of her cough, to ly doune in l)ed, but was faine to be sett iq) right AAuth pillows, yet eA^en so she coughed Avithout intermission, from the time she Avent to bed, avcIi Avas about 9 of the clock every night, till 8 or 4 in the morning ; then (piite tyred out she AAM)uld slipp doune a little, and sleepe most of the morning by fitts, Avch gaA^e her strength to indure the next day. Thus she past 5 AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 269 of the weekes, and would perrnitt no body to sitt up with her, nor above twice or thrice call any body up, but would endure them to her selfe, I am conli- dent, because she would conceale how she past them ; but as much against her will, as unknowne to her, 1 was a witness to some of them ; for lying by her some nights, she would be strangely quiett, till slie thought me asleepe, wch I many times couiiterfitted houres together, then woulde she breake forth into such fervent aspirations, into such sweet and fervent acts of charity, and assurance of Grod’s goodness, so perfect resignation to his holy will, that I was not more sad in the sense 1 had of her suffering con- dition, then transported to heare so heavenly a pietv. Though those nights I was with her, I believe I heard not the 20th part of what she said distinctly, she speaking almost allways to herself softly, of wch I heard but like a whisper of words, of wch I under- stood not : one saying that she used and often repeated was, ‘ Thy will be done in me and mine ever ever.’ Then would she say a pater-noster and Ave Mary with extraordinary feelings and devotion, and allwayes when she came to ‘ fiat voluntas tua,’ she would still add ‘ fiat, fiat.’ Another she often used was, ‘ Thou knowest my God I am only thine, lett all mine be ever so ; ’ and that of St. Aug, as 1 take it, ‘ He loves Thee little, that loves any thing together with Thee that he loves not for the love of Thee.’ Now it was the beginning of July, and just at this time, God who disposeth all things sweetly. 270 80ME ACCOUNT OF C(JLTON beginning- to show his perticnilar providence and love to her, who liad })ractised that perfect confonnity to Him, in so lovingh^ and faithfully following Him in tlie thorny way of the cross, had now pleased to so order it, that she had meanes to gain a plenary indulgence, at wch she shewd much joy, and intreated me that 1 would take care as soon as possible that she might have the benefitt of it she most needed. How little did I believe this, yet how willing was 1 to com})ly ever with any desire of her’s and so tould her that I would that day, wch was the 2nd of July, bestow ye almes for her, and that night I would ly by her that I might be sure to l)e stirring by times, and be in the morning assistant to her ; that so she might receave seasonably all that was wanting to her satisfaction. See another mani- fest of God’s gratious indulgence to her. She who had not for many weekes taken any sleepe or rest till morning, by reason of her continuall cough, that night, as soone as the roome was quiett, and I come to bed, I sayd to her, ^ You must be sure to sleepe to-night, how else shall I ever be able to consent to call you up in the morning, just when you rise, and must needs take yr rest ; ’ and indeed this considera- tion was no small difficulty and trouble to me, all the precedent day. But God highly rewarded my due condescendency herein ; for she no sooner returned me ‘ 1 Avill be sure to do so,’ but He made good her word, for she fell fast asleep, it being much about ten of the clock. I know not I ever in my life felt more joy then now, when I heard eleven and twelve AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 271 strike before slie waked : about a quarter after she spoke to me, saying-, ‘ did you ever see tlie like Mr. Aston ; liow I liave slept, and I am nmcli lietter then I have been a long time.’ About one she fell asleep againe. and so slept by fits till 4, well was the time appoynted. I then got up and assisted to have all made ready for her, whilst she prepared herselfe. Before we despatched all, and she receaved the full satisfaction of all her desires, with no little joy to me, to see her body pertake so truly in the comforts of her mind, for ther was a visible and sensible amendment of her every way, and a great truce from her usuall paines. In this hopeful condition I left her, and went abroad about my usuall occasions leaving her with great hopes she would gitt more sleepe ; but about halfe an houre after I was gone, she on a sudden had such pains as she plainly and truely apprehended to be labour. She instantly desired I should be sent for. I came to her againe just as the clocke struck seaven, and I found her in the same pleasant and cheerfull manner she used to begin her other child births : When the midwife and most about her did in a manner desjiaire she could have breath and strength ; just one quarter after 8, she was delWered of a healthfull well-liking child, by the help of Him, who gratiously knew to proportion her labour to her strength. When she was layd in her bed she remay ned for the space of half an houre much out of breath, but from the first instant was able to lye along, with little or no trouble of her cough. That night she had many 272 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON fine slee|)es, and tlie next night slept most part of it, and so continued the 4 and o in all res])ects as ever sh(‘ used to he ; hut the first niglit, being Thursday, slu' mist her sleepe and in the morning when I came to her. 1 found her somewhat feaverish, and she continued all day a little distempered and restless ; that Friday night slie gott a little slee])e, but yet on Saturday was much distempered with heate and Ix'gan to return to her short breathing. This shooke me a little, but far, (jfod knowes, from ap})rehending how nere 1 was to the loss of that inestimable s(jule, for well all the joyes of ten thousand such worlds as this, cannot make me the least reparation. That Saturday night, unless a little at the beginning, she slept none at all. 1 came to her about 8 in tlu‘ morning, and found her in a high feaver, and very short breatht. I dis])atcht one then straight for a doctour, returned to her, and dismissed he, watcher, and told her I Avas come to sitt by her, she must needes try to sleepe ; she ansAvered AAuth these AAwds, ‘ indeede there is no hope of it, pray be not troubled at it, I am sure iioav I shall dy, Avhy should you grieve ? 1 leave you ten for one, and Con Avill (|uicklA’^ be a husAvife, Avch I never Avas. You Avill ])e sure to be kind to all the children ; Imt espetially, I ])rav vou to Jacke, Avhose sad apj)reliensiA'e nature re(piires most kindness : be sure you make them all good, and doe you and they alewayes as you ouglit ; praA" see tliat })oore Frank neA^er Avant, and be sure to be alhv^ayes kind to nurse Hansaker ; lett Jacke if you please have my wedding ring ; and if you AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 278 think titt, give some of our best friends that best loved us something to remember me l)y ; my short- ness of breatli is a great trouble to me, that I cannot say more to you, and by reason thereof I can not be able to speake to those that are about me, and will come to me, as 1 would, but you must excuse it, and for your owne part think and imagine what I would say to you, wch is all that can be sayd.’ Though I had often sadly interrupted her in this discourse, yet I ])erceayed the saying so much had been very pain- full to her. I in treated her therefore to lye still, and not to trouble herself and me, about that which was so improbable, being she was not the least sick; and indeed the having seene her so often in so much greater extreamity, had created confidence in me, that though the manner of her discourse feared me deeply, yet I had no beleefe of the sad sequell, and so exprest to her : she then went on, yet smiling, and in a jesting manner, ^ yes, Mr. Aston, I must dy, because you and everybody, pray’d for my safe bringing a bed, but thought not of me afterwards.’ I assured her of the contrary as for my owne part, and doubted not the like of others ; and reply ed to her, ‘ since I see so much apprehension in your selfe, of what no one els sees reason, if you love me will you now joyne yr prayers with mine that you may recover and outlive this fitt :’ she answered, ^ 1 doe desire, if it please Grod, that I may still live, since I see it would so much please you ; but indeed I cannot pray for it, and verily I ought not ; ” though 1 urged this againe, I could liy no meanes 274 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON alter lior lierein. Tliis rc^pulse, tliou^h managed witli all the sweetness and kindness possible by her, w‘ci^ the first a])])rcliension tliat strooke me of her leaving me ; for she in all lier wliole life time had mnan’ denyed me anytliing, though nevei’ so un- reasonable and averse to lier nature, or inelination ; unjust, I thank God, I durst never aske, nor could I l)elieve this now was. Yet I (*ould not but observe, nor will I conceal the goodness of God to her, in pi*eserving her now free both from sickness and })aine, and in graunting her what she had so often prav’d for in lier lifetime, that slie might have her senses perfect at tlie last ; wee liaving seene and she felt the sad exj)erience in her of tlie contrarv formerly ; to witt, the greatist extremity possible lioth of sickness and paine, w(4i, tliougli it was never able to rack her quite from her selfe, vet sometimes, l)y a confluence of humours, she would be so overdull’d, that she was all most all day apt to fall asleepe, a sad vail to that knowing soule ; and of well she herself was not a little sensible, and would much lament it to me, that slie could not with reason expell that uglie cloud (as she would call it) that overwhelmed her ; and when that was cleared up, she exceeded as fan* the other wav ; she could upon no tenues gett any sleepe, she had a strange (piick vivacity of spiritt, a violent activ^e mind, a working fancy ; in fine, so all soule, as if she were already discharged of the (*logg of bodv ; and this could her reason less master than the other extremity. Slu' had not n thought then under AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 275 Moiint Tlial)or, and all her discourses were in the liio’hest heaven : In every occasion, and to every ])erson that ])resented themselves to her, she would spend so many words, till she fainted away, and was ([uite s])ent to nothing. But now that she was pre- })aring and approaching to her eternal rest, to a neerer conjuncture and more sacred union with him, whom her soule bv love allways enjoyed, he pleased gratiouslv to exempt her from the distractions of sickness and ])aine ; he granted her desire of a perfect enjoyment of her senses to the last, and conserved in her that lieavenly tranquillitye of spiritt, she all her life time was Mrs. of ; that blessed peace of mind wch this Avorld cannot give. What was this, but the kisse in the Canticles ? God’s taking her out of the world in his owne arms ; an eviden(*e and ernest of her future glory ; a celestial cahne, whereby she might the fuller contemplate, and have a clearer inspection into those ineffable joyes she wos entring into, and a true antitast of the peace of the blessed she was shortly to enjoy. After she had received the last sacraments, with as much satisfac^tion to herself, as little apprehention in us, my brother H. Thimelby, and I, sate dis- coursing with her about it, according to our reall thoughts, how little signe there was in her of anv danger; she never derectly contradicted our opinions, but all ways answered what-so-ever was spoke to her, though lireifly, and in all her actions expressed a contrary thought, but for our sakes would not impart it to us: for none of us never putt our liand lu^en' 276 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON lier but she would lay liould of it, so hard, and with a kind of shake and kiss release it ; w(*h action, though we reflected not on it then, she certainly intended a soleinne taking* her leave of us, and by this concealed way, she satisfyed her owne inclina- tion of ex])ressing love, yet acc^ording to her desire, kept us ignorant of her intention, and free from our sense of it. All this time wee ])erceaved nether sickness, nor paine in her, she complayning all this day of nothing but heate and shortness of breath. After dinner I came to her, and dismist all out of the roome, and sate by her perswading her to slee])e ; she was willing to make tryall, but though she lay as still as her feaver and want of l)reath would lett her, she was fan* from it. On a sudden she sayd to me, ^ pray Mr. Aston lett me see all the children, you know not how soon I may dy.’ I desired she would not trouble her self, nor afflict them moi*e with her feares, then I hop’d there was need. She answered me, ‘ I will say very little to them, but I must needs take my leave of them, and give them my blessing ; ’ this strooke me to the very hart, though I did not believe, but she had more feare then reason for it. I call’d the children in, and after she had given them all her blessing, all she sayd to them was, ‘children be sure you be allwaves good, and doe whatsoever yr father bids you ; you that are the bigger may. and must, be sure to re- member these my last Avords to you ; and so calling them one by one to her, she affectionately kissed them, ])ad Grod l)less them and dismist them.’ After AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 277 this iny mother and sister Thimelby eame to her, and in all hei* actions, and few words to them, she now contirmed the sad thoughts, her last farrwell to her children had tixt in me. She remayned from 4 of the clocke till almost H complayning, and indeed with reason, of her heate, her feaver much increas- ing : then the doctor came, and feeling her pulse comforted her in saying, she might drink as much as she would, wch we had ignorantly, and and with no small punishment to her, desired her to forbeare. But he freelv informed and directed us *J from whence now I must only ho])e for comfort. Whosoever saw me then, much more my calmness by her all night, but most of all my surviving such a loss, may conclude my love to her had little of passion ; then 1 ho})e the more of truth, both then and ever. Indeed my strange quiet and resignation then, is more my owne wonder than it can be anyes, it was so contrary to what 1 felt, so beyond any vertue I ever owned ; it was she, and only she that layd this storm she had raysd ; made up what she had mind ; by closing her eyes opened mine, and by her last breath upon me, inspir’d me with com- forts 1 had not beene acquainted with all ; tooke my hart with her, and gave it a relysh of those celestial joyes she here with such assurance always lov’d, and there with so much comfort everlastingly en- joyes. I no sooner receaved this sad knowledge from the phisitian, but we dispatcht him to his lodging, and brought downe to her the phisitian that was proper to her condition. Now it was 278 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON about nine of the cloeke, and slie grew sliorter and sliorter ])reatlit, and lun* fever inci’eased ; yet she was very present to lierseHV in a sweet tran- (juillity of mind and l)ody and as often askt how slie was, she allwayes sayd well, and in noe })aine. J doe easily believe it, and I conceave you will think no less when you consider what I verv' well know, her soule often in her life time so overflowd Avith the effects and highest operations of devine love, that she felt joyes and delights thereliy not to be ex- pressed. Hoav impossible was it then she could be sensible now of any thing but joyes when she Avas so neere the possession for eA^er of them, of aa^cIi formerly the A^ery hojie and expectation did so often seze and transport her. The good man Avho assisted her, putt into her mouth and thoughts many deAmut jaculatoryes, pious acts, and devine considerations; such as were short, she sayd after him ; such as b}^ her shortness of breath she could not reach unto, by her action all along, and by her assent Avhen he had done, she ex])rest her hart had gone along AAuth him, though her voyce fayled her : then did Avee all pray Avith her, and for her, round about her bed, most part of the night. Now in an in ter vail, that the good man gave her for her rest, Avee all ([iiiett, about eleven a clocke as 1 take it, she of a sudden spoake out, with a loud A^oyce. The good man ste})t to her en(*.oura<>iim* her Avith such devout saAdims as he thought necessary, Avhich she repeated as before, keeping the same })eace of mind, Avithout sIicav of the least disturbance the same speach and readiness AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 279 to ans\Yeare to what was spoken to her, the same ])erfectiiess of sense, thougli visil:)le tliat she was neerer her end by the drawing* of her breath. In another cessation of j)rayer wch was betweene 1 and 2 of the night she spoake out againe, ‘ Oh how crafty tln^ devil is, how crafty to deceave men,’ then resting a little first ; ‘ but Jesus is to me a Jesus.’ Then the good man interposed : ^ ’tis well, sayd lie, sweet cosen,’ encouraging her to take comfort in that blessed name, and amongst other things repeated to her lier owne saying, as wee tliought, Jesus be to me a Jesus, (for we tlien under- stood not she sayd, is) : she tooke the word some- what hastily out of his mouth, and with great earnestness, at first againe rejieated divers times, Jesus is to me a Jesus. One that was by, and had beene ])ertaker with her, and an eye-witness in all her great sicknesses and sufferings, these 15 years })ast, first understood her, and cry’d out, ^ she says, Jesus is to me a Jesus.’ Wee all then clearly perceaved it, and with joy exprest so much to her. she seemed pleased we did so, and taking that com- fortable saying into her mouth againe, she repeated it, as long as she liad breath to pronounce a word ; and in this expression of her love to us, and assurance in God, Avithout tlie least strife or motion of her body, just as she used to drop]) a sleepe, she delivered lier blessed soule to her dear Saviour, a perfect holocaust to His love, on the 9th of July, a little after 2 of the clocke in the morninge, a little after day breake. And if it be true that in the combus- 280 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON tioii of windes, and horrid t(3m|)e.sts, the evill spiritts are aljroade, then tliis niorninge was an evidence of tlie blessed attendance that acconipanyed tliis liappv soide in her ascent to lieaven : for a more (*ahn, serene, pleasant, or more glorious morning tlien this, could not ]:)e. A true mirrour, that represented to us, both that lovely serenity of mind, tliat sweet creature all ways enjoyed here on eartli, and that transcendant glory she now [)ossesseth in heaven. God gave her here so cleare an insight and know- ledge of Heavin, that she consumed in the desire of a full fruition ; and had allways that violent aversion, and just sadness at the vaine amusements and seduced condition of most in the world, that she languished away in this holy resentment ; so that she did not only, all her lifetime, exactly observe the devine precept of love to God, and our neighbour (the compendium of all our religious dutyes) but dyed a martyr to both. From Winifred Thimelby the abbess to her niece Gertrude d of Herbert Aston. ‘ These for . Mrs. Gertrude Aston.’ My Sweet Chyld, How couldst thou fynd in thy hart to give addition to my troble, in })arting with thee, and to be at such charges to vex me ? I beleeve you thought itt discretion, to temper one pation by another : and therefore raysed my coller to moderate my greife ; but you fay I’d in your ayme, and left poore Keat, to bear alone the scourge of my just AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 281 ang’er. You liave read how it goes with me, tis now your tome to tell me how you doe. 8e(‘ you per- form e yr taske clearly, and largely : no general terms will serve my tome. I must know all perticulers of yr indispositions, that I may better know how to direct my prayers : whether thancks- giving, or petition suits you best. I have allready past the hardest, 1 mean that of oblation, and shall continue the second in a corner after matins, but the 8rd I long to have publicke in company of my good sisters. Tell us therefore ({uickly, is your ague quit gon, that we may all give thancks to God. How strangely doe 1 speake, as if health wear the proper motive of gratitude, whereas certaynely patience in sicknis is far above itt ; and presuming one of thees, com what will, my hart shall ever prayse God for thee. For I am confident yr lott shall be made good, Avhich you chose with Mrs Hacon. Remember it well, but doe not mistake me. I meane not, presently to be a nun. I mean not to seal thee up in a cloyster, (as for that, his will be done, in spyt of fond desyres) but I meane to seale thee up to His owne service. Love God, and doe what thou wilt. I’le promis.e to love thee every jot as well as if a nun : as truely, as constantly, as dearly, because unchangebly thy most affectionat ante. W. Thim. 282 .SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON From Fliza (Tliimelhy) wife of Mr. Cottirigtoii to H(‘rl)(M-t A.stoii li(‘r uncle. Deare Uiikle I doe a.ssure you, though 1 preferd my health in the tirst })lace, I look upon France to be no le.ss advantagose in all other re.spects. But what is this to you, who injo}'s all that can be, at your little'^ Bellamour ? Only you can extend so far the greatest charity, when you remember me at your so regular devotions. As to my owne perticuler, some says here, I am not in so much danger, but I doubt it is all one: if .so, I hope I shall have your advi.se, what will be best to doe, for a poor bani.sht-creature who is, in all conditions, more yours than you have rea.son to believe. As you are just 1 Avill say no more, but that 1 am Your most affectionat nece to serve you, E. C. These for ^Irs. Catherine Aston the younger at Loven. My Deare Girle 1 received, the other day, a Ire from you without date; it told, in short, all J desire to heare. Yt you love, and are so much l)eloved by yr reverend mother; had you })aid her less respect and affection, you had so far strayed from reason and truth ; and had .she bin le.ss kind to you, she had made an ill returne to ni-e, for my greatest expression of kind- * This expression coniirms what has been said about the old house — that it was always snjall — as the .string-course proves. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 283 ness I was capable of, my parting with you, which, but for God’s sake, yr owne, and liers, I should not have done ; so good and dutifull a child you have bin ever to me, that I knew not how better to requite you, than to quit my own private interest and contentmt for yr advantage, well you must needes reape from so lovely loving and beloA^ed a directrix. She will soon instruct you how inconsiderate all joyes of sense are, and teach you (|uickely to shake off all resentmts feelings) of nature, for those of grace, so infinitely preferable. Xot so much as remember you had a father, but by reflection of that love by wch he abandons himselfe for you ; for whose sake, be carefull of yrselfe ; and walk, and exercise as much as you can ; and reade agayne, and agayne, as a booke of devotion, yt booke of new offices I gave you, ther being most excellent things in it, and when you are pleased, stick ther, and range not on to looke for wt you have found : vt were foolisher than we hunsmen. I warrant you we beate no more bushes when we have found our hare. Though I was but few dayes at Belaniore, being forced to goe into Glostershire, yet I was with my lady Bagot, and cosen Wells. They, and all at Colton, George Wright most extraordinarily, present their services to you. I have set Belamore, and 20/. a yeare, next to the house. I sold likewise my horses, and hmre cowes, and my house is likely better to be looked to, and I pleased, since I am liere childles, to bee servantles, and houseless ; and 284 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON tlierel)v much more careless, Initiiotone wliit of vou and yr tliree sist(TS : you are all to my wisli and satisfaction, and tlierfore be sure of the utmost endeavours for you of Yr affectionate father, Heril Aston. Septbr. 2, 1672. Hond. and Deare brother, Keat has received yours with all dutifull, that is imexpressible, joy ; and kyndly flatters me into beleefe vou’l receive lier answer as williimlv bv mv pen as her owne, especially when 1 tell you 'tis to spare her ill eyes, which find too much enudoyment by the dutyes of order, in present circumstances, Sister Anne Gfifford lying a dying ; which brings an obligation of reading many prayers for lier ; both living and dead. But poore Keat knows not liow ill a choyce she has made : for 1 that could never yet speak what was fit for myself, how is it })ossible 1 can do it for her y But I’ll trusst vour goodniss will keep my councill, and make good, by yr kind faith, what’s neither seen nor heard, beleeving stedfastly she retornes all she shuld : and now me- thinkes I have hitt it, and defye any can say more for her : Therefor be so obligyngly kind, as to applye the same words to Yr most affectionat sister, \Y. Thimelrv. AND OF THE DE WASTENEY8 FAMILY. 285 1674 A.D. Ever Hond. and dearest ])rother, 1 know not liow in (‘onseience I can thank you for tlie last l)ounty of yr letter, siin^e it tyes faster those knotts of love to somnthyng*e 1 must leave when I dye ; which, by age, (*un not l)e far off, yet farther than 1 wisli, if it be but till to-morrow. This may seeem great presumption in one so ill prepared ; yet for my ])art I thinke it none, since ’tis mercy oidy is mv trust ; and, witliout that life is more dangerous than deatli, 1 because ’twould but increase future evils. 1 repent wliat I have sayde, fearing ‘twill make your partialitv take fals measure of me every way ; 1 am too gross a dissembler, if I confess not your c*.orris- pondence has a better relish with my appetite than any other : but this secures not but it may be unwholesom ; not by its own nature, but by my intemperance. Really I would faine loving nothing but God, but all you at Bellamour are notorious theefs, yourself (‘ the (*aptain, and steal, or rather openly rob, of that poore interest I should pay only to heaven. Whensoever therefor you write to mee, pray for mee, that I may not sinke in that stream of pleasure ; but that it mav carry ‘me on to the maine ocean, wher’ we all may happily drowne together. Your little god-daughter thrives bv vour blessing, not to greatnes, but goodnes, she has a great courage in a little body, and needes a bridle, but no spurr, she is all activity, and thinkes she is able to do all she sees in order dune. 1 hope her father will grant her petition of taking the scholer’s habit, for her 286 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON desires are proved constant by tlie rake of delay ; and r shall take care slie doe nothino' above her o strean^th I ('xpect Ids order, which shall ])e my rule as becomes yr most aifectionat sister, W. Thlmelhy. From Winifred Thimelljy written and sent with some gifts to Herljert Aston’s children. ‘ For Bellamor.’ My dear children, girls and boys, Ever since my jubily, I have longed for oppor- tunity to convay tliese little things wear given me tlien l)ecause I expect none so fine agen. I hope you understand me well enough, to know, that when 1 send you nothing, ’tis because J have nothing 1 tidnck you will car for ; or els for want of oppor- tunity. However, I have one way of convaying kyndnis, which can never mischary ; and daylv make use of itt. Yet perha])s you Avill not receive it, till the day of eternity. Then you’l see my (*ares, my prayers, my neer concerns for each of you. Uatt (Gertrude) I rejoice in thy health, and ability to serve thy father, and assist thy brothers and sisters. Tis a happines, I hope, dear Franck will share in sliortly. But I liave some apprehension Franck, that thou wilt want Doctor Conquest in the country. I will thanck him for the good he has done thee : be sure thou leavest of grief for my good lady. Thou must not l)e sucli a stranger to heaven as to think itts gaine, your losse. We have all indevored to speed lier flight to that b. eternity. AND DF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY 287 (lod bless sweet Matt, Wat, and Hal, and all of voii, I foro-ot to tell tliee Gatt, 1 never had that letter yr father tells m(' yon ritt ; Init Franek I had both of yours, and sent a little })iirs, and (‘hristall, to thee, by one Mr. Digby ; but I doubt he ner delivered it, tho he ])roniised fare. Now 1 send all together, agree among yourselves, as 1 know you will : but whatever your father lykes liest, know for eertayne, that is designed for him. From yoin* most intirely loving aunt. M'.T. My dearly dear children Your brother Jack tells me that you kindly thinck it long, since vou heard from me; 1 per(*eive there has been mis-cariage of yr letters, foi*, certaiidy, had I received any, I should have answered them ; tho, I confess, it was my design to wean, both myself, and you, from that satisfaction : for now my age tells me I have not long to live ; therfor, my sweet children, I would have you remember me only in your prayers: Ide do the same by you; yet if a letter coom from vou, I own t’will be a pleasant distraction ; and I will be sure to give you anotlier ; but this will ])ass : let our constant labour bee who shall run swiftest towards the happy eternitv: P^or nothing in this world but may advance our speed, if we know liow to make right use of it : as long as your father lives I have no cai\e) for you : 1 am sure he is no less your spiritual father than your natural. I praye God you mav hould him fast, but, alas, you must, at last, wlien God (*alls, let him 288 .SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON ^oe. Be .sure therefor, to make l)eiu'fit of the time mercy iiuliil^-es him to you ; and pray I may not outlive your liappine.ss in liim ; for being* totally unable to give you any comfort my.self t’ would prove an un.sufferable cross to your poor, but most atfectionat aunt. W. T. When you rit, be sure to tell me particulers of each of you, for really my love is so perticiler to every one, boys and girls, that a general accompt serves not my turne. When you see worthy Mr. Morgan give him my best respects, though I shall never clearly forgive his for.saking Lovaing : tell him ould {sic) deare father lives now, 1 thinck, onely to give us a pattern how to die : He is so weake, not able to goe one step]), nor scarce to speak to be understood, by anv )jut those that are continually about him. Yet so cherful in the expectation of death, that he even vexes me, to see him .so long to leave us ; T’other day, hearing him .sigh, I demanded the cause. He tould me he longed to dye : 1 answered he was about itt ; He replyed ‘‘ 0 may itt be this day, this hour, this moment.” His tears mayd out the rest ; you may be sure he wept not alone. We dayly expect his death, which will bee his joy; but unspeakable grife to your poor affectionat aunt. W. T. From Winifred Thimelby to her neices describing the death of their .sister Katherine Aston, Herbert’s daughter, at Louvain. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 289 For niy clear girls, Mv clear sweet girls you must not think yr sister Keat is dead, though my joys be so. JShe truly lives, and shall never cly. She laughs at our fond tears, for God has wyp’cl her eyes. Wonder not that I speak so confidently, for all that saw her virtues (which is every one in the house) thinks what I say. This last half year God was pleased to try her with much infirmity, and great paines, especially in her head ; in that extremitie, that sometimes she could not speak ; but she had made a bargan with me, that when she held up her finger I must torn to God for her, with a ^ fiat voluntas tua.’ Just the night before God took her from me, she had been discoursing with one of our sisters, who lamented the misery of humaine frailty, that drags us sometimes to doe or say, what we know to be amiss. No, said she, say not so, tis too true, that we often frayly doe amiss but I cannot believe that any will doe ill, when they perceive itt so. When this was told our father, he answered, ^ She measured others by herself, for she never did.’ I’le say no more, least I coole your devotion in praying for her, and we must remember, our judgments fall infinitely short of Alhnightie God’s, in whose sight the very stars are not pure. 1 am yr too much affectionat aunt, W.T. From Winifred Thimelby written to her brother-in-law, Herbert Aston. July 13, 1684. 290 somp: account of colton Hond Dear Brother, Mrs. Aston is saufly arryved, and as kyndly well- cx)nied of all, as we can make appear, till longur time furnisli us with opportunity of reall servis to her. It had been enough for me. to understand her a friend to Bellamore ; that alone had comaunded all my forces and imployed them to her Ijest advan- tage and my singular content. But exj^erience tells mee, that thing content is not to be had in this sad world, unmixt with cars and fears. For she brings the unwellcom news of your decaying strength. How can you blame me for desiring to drope away, to spare my eyes ther streams ? If you dye before mee, I shall quickly goe after you. But then, alas I what becomes of our dear girlls and boyes ? Thers my concearne, els I could afford you all the great advantages death will bring you. Forgive me, dear brother, that I wish, and l^ray, that your sojourning may be lorolonged. You end your letter with a ridle I have not witt to find out. You say you hope to hear I believe better of you than I did : which seems impossible : my faith concearning you cannot be more strongly kynd, no more then can my love increase. I am unchangeably. Hod. Dear Brother, Your most intirely loving though most unworthy sister, W. Trim. From C. Hacon, a nun of the Convent at Louvain to Gertrude Aston at Bellamoiir, AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 291 Deare ^ladam, Septr. 2. If you have received my last aliout a month ago, of the indisposition of your deare aunt, and the per- ticulers of her disease, you will not be now much surprised, that God has pleased to take her to him- self. Sartainly you have reason to rejoy ce for her happiness, which must be great, after so pious a life. She received the last sacraments with great devotion, being perfectly herselfe, and so overjoy ed to dye, that 1 coming to her, not so well resigned as I ought to have bin, she was in amaze, and wondered I could be troubled at what she so much rejoyced at; and charged me to go directly, to give God thanks for all his mercys to her. I must needs owne, I’m too selfish in greeting to part with her, that’s farr happier without me. She had always a most extreme, tender affection for you all at Bell- amour. Her death was the palsey, which tooke possession of every part, but most of her head, and was wholly speechless for a week before she dyed. I send obiit, that you may never forget to pray for her, in which you will extremely oblige, Deare Madam, Your most affectionate humble servant, C. Hacon. Colton Cljartularn. The following grants of land in the Parish of Colton dating from the latter part of the 12th century down to the 18th (circa 1185 — 1725 a.d.), have been 292 SOME ACCOUNT OB^ COLTON collected from the Iii^estre,” ‘‘ Blithfield,” and Drakelowe ” muniments; from tin? Greslev Chartulary, a MS. of 16th ce’itmy date, preserved at the Chetham Library, ^lanchester ; from (Erdeswicke’s) Hark MSS. Xo. 506 ; from the late Sir Thomas Phillip’s original deeds at Chelten- ham ; and from Walter Chetwynd’s MSS. ; together with a few from Sir Charles Wolseley’s Charters, the Cornwall Leigh, and the Stowe MSS. (B.M.) Gresley Chartulary (and M. Riuware Deeds) c. 1185 (?) Nicholaus Mavasyne de Col tun Gilberto fratri meo dimidiam virgatam terre in Coltun, quam MTllelmus de Longefort tenuit. Testibus Galfrido Salvagio, Wi(done) de Muttun, Roberto de Muttun, Hugone Mauvesyne, Rogero hlio suo, Willelmo Mauvesine, Geraldo de Coltun, Galfrido de Coltun, Ivone de Waletune. Seal, armed horseman with raised sword. (7,925) ^Philipps (MSS.)(c. 1198 — 1208 a.d.) Galfridus, Dei gratia Coven trie ecclesie humilis minister, t omnibus ad quos presens scriptum per- venerit salutem ; Noverit universitas vestra nos dedisse, &c., Warino Griff yn de Colton, et heredibus Hugh Mavesyn occurs in 1166 a.d. Gerald de Coltun was dead before the church suit in 1203 a.d. Nicholas Mavesyn occurs as late as 1203 a.d., and Geoffrey Savage (I) died 1195 a.d. * (N.B.) These Philipps and Harleian (No. 506) deeds relate entirely to the “ St. Thomas ” lands in Colton — [i.e.) to the “ Lount ” and “ the Grange ” (or Boughey Hall), t Geoffrey (de Muschamp) was Bishop from 1198 a.d. — 1208 a.d, AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 293 suis, pro liomag*io et servioio suo, totam terrain ad Lund,’’ sub Colewele, quam Adam le Wratlie tenuit, et essartum sub eadem Colewelle juxta liurneboe, (|uod Robertus carpentarius tenuit, et de incremento latitudinem quatuor acrum extra sepes predictarum terrarum, et longitudinem de essarto quod fuit Turkilli, usque Burneboc, cum omnibus eoriiin pertinentiis, in manerio nostro de Heywode. Tenendas et habendas sibi et heredibus suis, de nobis et successoribus nostris, libere et quiete, in bosco et piano, in pratis et pascuis et omnibus libertatibus et asiamentis ; Reddendo inde annuatim nobis, et successoribus nostris, pro omni servicio &c., quatuor solidos ad quatuor terminos, scilicet &c. Hiis testibus, Osberto senescallo, Thoina de Erdinton, Philippo de Wasteiieys. Willelmo Gryffyn, Galfrido de Col tun, Galfrido de Colwycli, Rogero de Colwich, Ricardo de Bissopeston, Roberto Ruffo, Hugone Britone, Willelmo de Drengeton, Roberto Blundo, Henrico de Langedum, Nicolao Camerario, et multis aliis. (No. 7925.) Philipps MSS. (1215-25 a.d. ?) Sciant p, et f, quod ego Guarinus de Colton, dedi &c. Johanni, tilio meo, pro homagio et servicio suo, totam terrain meam de Lund, sub Colewall, quam tenui de domino meo Episcopo Coventri’, de manerio de Haywode ; Habendam et tenendam sibi, et heredibus suis, de me, et heredibus meis, jure hereditario, cum omnibus j^ertinentiis suis libere &c., cum omnibus libertatibus dicto manerio de Heywode pertinentibus ; Reddendo inde annuatim inihi, et 294 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON hereclibus meis, de se, et heredibus suis, quatuor solidos argenti, et (juatuor denarios ad quatuor terininos, scilicet ad festuni Sancti Andree tresdeceni denarios, et ad festum Sancte Marie, in marcio, tresdeceni denarios, et ad festuni 8ancti Joliaiinis Baptiste tresdeceni denarios, et ad festum Sancti Michaelis tresdecim denarios. Pro liac auteni donacione, &c., dedit inihi quatuor marcas argenti. Ego, vero, Guarinus (usual warranty and seal). Hiis testibus ; domino Galfrido de Gresley, Ada persona de Cohvicli, Jolianne clerico de Colwich, Henricode Heiwode, Ricardo de Hopton, Willelmo Gryffyn de Colton, Hugone filio Thome ibidem, Waltero le Brett. (No. 7925.) Philipps MSS. (circa 1230 a.d.) Sciant tarn presentes quam futuri quod ego Johannes, lilius Warini* de Coltun, vendidi, et concessi, et quietam claniavi de me et heredibus meis, in perpetuum, Hugoni de Brossa totam terrain quam pater mens et ego tenuimus de domino Coventri et Lichfelddensi Episcopo, infra manerium de Haywode. Tenendam et habendam in perpetuum, in feodo et hereditate, dicto Hugoni et heredibus suis, vel assignatis suis, &c., de Dho x41exandrof Coventr. et Lichfeld. Epo, et successoribus suis, libere quiete honoritice, et pacifice, cum omnibus pertiiientiis suis et libertatibus et esiamentis, et * This deed, compared with the foregoing, establishes the identity of “ Warin de Colton” with Warin Grilfyn de Colton. t Bishop Alexander is Alexander de Stavenby, consecrated I4th April, 1224 a.d., died 26th December, 1238a d. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 295 conimuniH, in bosco et piano, in pratis et pascuis, in viis et semitis, in aqiiis et inoris, et mariscis, et in omnibus locis ita plenarie et integre sicnt earn unquain pater mens et ego plenius et integrius tenninius, fa(*iendo inde servicium dicto Domino Alexandro Episcopo, et successoribus suis, quod pater mens et ego facere consuevimus annuatim pro terra dicta. Scilicet quatuor solidos argenti annuos ad terminos in dicto manerio constitutos, pro omni seindcio et exactione ad die tain terrain pertinente. Pro hac autem venditione, &c., dedit inilii predictus Hugo viginti quinque marcas argenti. Et Ego Jobes p’fatus ei plenariain seysinam feci inde plenaiiam (.sic) in curia de Heywode Meipsum et lieredes meos penitus deponendo, et totuin jus quod habui, vel habere potui, et omnia munimenta quecunque habui de dicta terra pro me et haeredibus meis in manuin dicti domini Episcopi resignavi ad opus dicti Hugonis, et heredum suorum et assigna- torum suorum. In cujus rei testimonium presenti scripto sigillum meum apposui. Hiis Testibus: Dho Philippo,* tunc Abbate Rowcestre, dho Gralfrido de Gresele, dho Hugone Bagot, niilite, dho Gralfrido de Abbilbii, Dho Stephano Meverel, Dho Johanne de Actun, Nicholao Meverel, Ricardo Bagot, Henrico de Nortim, Humfrido de Strettun, Dho Ada persona de Kolewich, Johanne de Kolewich, et tota curia de Haywode, et aliis. [Beautifully written, seal gone, but wax has been green.] * Abbot Philip was succeeded by Abbot Kichard in 1256. 296 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Hciant ]). et f. quod Ego Hugo do Breusia dedi, Magistro Hiiuoiii de Walton totam teiTani meain ([uaiii lial)ui in villa de Collon^ et infra, manerium de lletfivode^ scilicet “ le Loundef^ cum omnibus pertinentiis suis sine ali(|uo reteniinento, tenendam et habendam de me et heredibus meis, sil)i et lieredibus suis, vel quibuscunque assignatis suis, infra religionem et extra, libere et quiete, et cum omnibus pertinentiis suis, &c., ad predictam terrain de Colton, “ et de la Lounde,’’ spectantibus, in perpetuum. Reddendo inde annuatim dno Coventr. et Lichf. Epo, &c., quatuor solidos argenti ad quatuor anni terminos : Scilicet ad festum Scti, Michaelis duodecim denarios, et ad festum Scti Andree duodecim denarios, et ad festum B. Marie in Marcio 12 denarios, et Scti Joliis Bapt. 12 denarios et duos denarios ad festum Sancti Michaelis Galfrido filio Warini de Colton et heredibus suis pro omni servitio, et exactione, vel demanda, salvo forinseco servitio, si quis aliquid forinsecum servitium de predicta terra debeat jirestare. Pro hac autem donacione, &c., dedit mihi predictus Magister Symon quadraginta inarcas argenti. Ego vero et heredes mei totam prenoininatam terrain de Coltone, et de le “ Lounde,’’ cum omnibus pertinentiis, suis, &c., prefato Symoni et heredibus suis infra religionem et extra, &c., warrantizabimus in perpetuum, et ut hec mea donacio rata et stabilis permaneat in peiqietuum presens scriptum sigilli mei impressione, et testiiim ap})ositione, corroboravi. Hiis testibus : Domino Henrico Mavesin de Ridware, domino Williehno de AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 297 Wastineys, Domino Willielmo de Bromley, militilms, Pagano de Wasteneys, Rol^erto de Mapelton, Ada de Colwych, AYillielmo Griffin de Coltiin, Hiigone de Col tun, Willielmo de Stypliinton, et aliis. (7925 Philipps’ deeds.) (No. 7925.) Philipps’ MSS. Omnibus has literas visuris vel audituris, Rogerus de Styvinton (?) sempiternam in domino, Salutem. Noverit universitas vestra me dedisse, &c., fratri Nicholao, Priori Sancti Thome, martyris juxta Stafford, et ejusdem loci conventui, in liberam purani et perpetuam elemosinam, homagium et servicium Galfridi le Wasteneys, domini de Tyxhale, et heredum suorum, mihi debitum de quinque acris terre, quas tenet de me in villa de Colton, cum annuo redditu quatuor denar iorum, ab eis plenarie precipiendorum item homagium et servicium Williehni domini de Bromley Bagod, et heredum suorum, mihi debitum de octo acris terre cum uno messuagio quod de me tenet in villa de Stiventon, cum annuo redditu quatuordecim denariorum, reddendo inde annua tini Johanni, tilio Thome de Stivinton, octo denarios, item homagium et servicium Williehni tilii Rogeri fabri de Colton, et heredum suorum mihi deijitum de una acra prati, quod de me tenet in “ P]medewe,” cum annuo redditu unius paris albarum cyrothecarum de pretio unius denarii. Item servicium Henrici Griffin de Coltun et heredum suorum de medietate unius acre prati [very faint, but apparently correct] (juam de me tenet in 298 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON ^M^MTiedcwe cum ammo redclitu uiiius denarii. Item liomag'ium et ser\dcium Petri le Bret de Coltun, c^t lieredum suorum mihi delntum de medietate de ‘^Aldwiiie-Holme,”t (juam de me tenet, cum annuo redditu unius oljoli. Item servicium Willielmi, filii Willielmide le Piewe (Puiz ?) et liere- dum suorum mihi debitum de dimidia acra terre, quam de me tenet in le^Kewlond,’’ cum annuo redditu unius oboli. Tenend. et babend. dictis Priori et con- ventui, et successoribus suis, libere, &c., cum wardis, mariagiis, releviis, auxiliis, et escaetis, &c., ad me vel lieredes meos inde aliquo modo spectantibus in perpetuum. Et ego Rogerus, et heredes mei, &c., (usual warranty)^ in cujus rei testimonium presenti scripto sigillum meuiii apposui. Hiis testibus : Domino Williebno de Kaverswall, milite, Ada de Colewij. Jobanne Grifen de Colton, Roberto de Wulseleye, Jobanne le Harpiir de Colton, et aliis. (Philipps’ MS. 7925.) (No. 7925.) Philipps MSS. (c. 1235 — 1240 a.d. Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Magister Symon de Walton dedi et c. et bac presenti carta niea conbrmavi Deo, et ecclesie Sancti ddiome martyris juxta Stafford, et canonicis regularibus ibidem Deo servientilius, jiro salute anime mee, et * Einedewe is the modern “Eye Meadow” (corrupted into Haymeadow), on the banks of the Trent. (See Colton Tithe Map, Nos 249-252.) Aldwine-IIohn’^ = t\\Q Almholm of Queen Elizabetlis time, tlie modern *• ” (See Tithe Map No. GLl). Corrupted once into Hammonds. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 299 meorum antecessorum et successorum, in liberam purani et perpetuam elemosinain, to tarn terrain qiiam emi et habui de Hugone de Brewsya in villa de t^olton, et extra, videlicet totain terrain de le Loiind^ infra manerium de Heywode, cum omnibus portin’ suis, et quoddam acrum in villa de (Joltun, cum domibus et virgultis, et aliis, ad idem acrum pertin" entibus, illud scilicet quod fuit quondam Warini Gryffyn de C olton: Tenend’ &c. denie, et lieredibus meis, in liberam et perpetuam elemosinam sibi, et successoribus suis, libere et quiete, et pacifice, cum omnibus pertinentiis suis, libertatibus, aysiamentis, et communis ad dictam terram de ‘ le Lounde,’ et acrum pertinentibus in perpetuum. Reddendo inde annuatim Domino Coventr’ et Lichfeld’ episcopo (qui pro tempore fuerit) quatuor solidos argenti. Scilicet ad festuni Sancti Michaelis duodecim denarios &c. (vide supra), et duos denarios ad festum Sancti Michaelis Galfrido, tilio Warini de Colton, et here- dibus suis pro omni seculari servicio &c., in per- petuum : salvo forinseco servicio si &c. ; ego autem to tarn prenominatam terram de ^ le Llounde,’ et predictum acrum &c. eodem' modo quo prefatus Hugo de Breusia &c. predictis ecclesie et canonicis, contra omnes homines et feminas warrantizabimus in perpetuum. Et ut hec meo donacio &c. presens scriptum sigilli mei impressione corroboravi. Hiis testibus, domino Henrico Mawwesyn, domino Willelmo de Wasteneys, domino Hugone de Bromley Bagot), domino Willelmo fratre ejus, militibus, Pagano de Wasteneys, James {sic) de Blithfeld, SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON m) Willelmo Grriffyn cle Colton, Willelmo filio suo, llugone do Col tone, Willelmo de Broctone, Ada de Col wy ell, Warino preposito de Haywode, Jolianne Gryni, AVillelmo de Styfinton, et aliis. (c. 1235 — 40 A.D. ?) Erdeswick (506 Harl. MSS.) (c. 1240 — 5. a.d. ?) Willelmus de Wasteneys dedit Johanni le Bret pro hoinagio et servicio suo, Calvescroft, quam ^Galfridiis, armiger, teiiuit ; et pratum vocatum Sollicli Inge ’’ ad Firsowles, quod Bobertus tilius Matilde tenuit in villa de Colton, &c. Johannes, tilius Walteri le Bret, Deo et ecclesie Sancti Thome, totani terrain meam in Coltona, pro salute Emme uxoris mee, ‘‘ calvescroft et Lichinge” (Sollich-Inge) ad Firesoules (506 B.M.). Hugo, tilius Thome de Colton, Johanni le Bre totam partem meam de terra, que fuit Gerardi, avi mei, juxtam terrain Johannis le Bret (506 Harl. MSS., B.M.) Hugo, tilius Thome de Colton, Johanni Britoni totani partem meam de mara que fuit Gerardi, avi mei, versus domum dicti Johannis le Bret (506 Harl. MSS., B.M.) Williehnus,t tilius Williehni, de Coltun, Priori Seal, vesica shaped, bearing an impression resembling a virgin and child, with two kneeling figures below, and this inscription : “ Sigillum Symon’ de Walton ’’ ; but the seal is very faint. * Galfridus, armiger Geoffrey Griffyn. t William, son of William, is, I think, the grandson of Nicholas Mavesyn of Little Hay — not William, son of William de Was- teneys. The gift to John Fret by William de Wasteneys gives the surname. This grant omits it. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 301 Saiicti Thome et canonicis &c., omnimodo sequelam curie mee, qiiam facere solebat pro terra Johannis le Bret ill Colton, et pro qiiibii8cunque in posteris de feiido meo poterimt adipisci, ita tamen, quod bis in anno aliquis, per eos destinatus, ad curiam meam veniat, pro afforamento, post rationabilem summoni- cionem . . . Concessi et eisdem, liberum in- gressum ad ministracionem in quacunque terra eidem aliquis de feudo meo conferre voluerit, &c. (Harl. MSS., 506 B.M.) Blithfield Deed (c. 1250 a.d. ?) Robert, son of John son of Edde de Admaston gives to John son of Robert del Eyot pro homagio, all the land Henry the chaplain formerly held, or., the crofts (croftos) del Lee in the fee of Colton — II abend &c. — at a rent of one rose bud at the feast of St. James — paying as earnest for this grant one mark at the feast of St. James — Test. James de Blithfield, Richard Citheratore (the harper), John of Changworth, Wm. Wymar of Morton, Swan the Smith. Blithfield Deed (1257 a.d.). Know all men, now living or to come, that we ^yilliam de Wasteneys,* William styled ‘ the young Lord,’ Hugh son of Thomas, and William Griffyn de Colton give and grant to Robert son of John de Admaston 5^ acres of land in our waste in Colton * These four were the lords of the Colton Manors — witness their grant of lajid “ in our waste ” of Colton, 302 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON near Grishall hrook opposite the spring of Qrg shall. ^ To have and to hold quietly with all rights, &c., in exchange for a portion he liad (z.6., his interest) in 28 acres of waste laud within our territory of Colton, within which 28 acres are 1 whi'ch we have given to the Prior and Convent of St. Thomas — and 10 acres also which Sir John de Wyville holds, and 7 acres which Henry son of Hugh holds upon Steven- hill (obliterated in the middle of the word, but this appears to be the right reading) — The usual warranty — These witnesses Hugh de Weston Kt., Ralph de Hampton, Thomas Grymt of Haywood, Adam Wychar de Tonestall, Richard son of Alexander of the same place, John son of Roisia of Bromley. No date, but an early endorsement on the back of the deed gives 41. Henry 3. (i.e., 1257 a.d.) Ingestre Deed (c. 1240 ?). Know all men &c. that I William son of William de Colton give grant and confirm by this my deed to William de Jokeshalle (Yoxall) for homage and * If “ Grishall ” spring is identical with the modern Crissle spring, (for so “ Cresswell ’’ is pronounced) an alteration the scribe might easily make, then “ Grishall brook ” is the brook flowing through Hamly mill ditch tield. At the “ source ” it now runs through pipes. Land near Creswell would be convenient to Admaston, and the witnesses are from that side. t The Grym family were of some note, they lived at Little Haywood, and held under the Bishop. I William son of William = William, son of William, son of Nicholas Mavesyn of Colton ; the first witness is a Mavesyn. The date may be circa 1240 A i), AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 303 service two acres and a half of land in my fee of Colton, namely those which lie within the land of Richard the Hairy (Pillosi). To have and to hold to him and liis heirs, any religions foundation excepted, in fee and inheritance fully, freely, &c., with thac and thol and all other liberties rights easements &c. thereto belonging — He paying me a rent of sevenpence halfpenny — moreover for this grant he paid down to me thirty shillings in silver — The usual warranty and seal — These witnesses — Henry Mavesyn, Geoffrey de Gresley, James de Blithtield. No date is given, but it is not probably later than middle of the 13th century (^vide jDedigree. &c.). (1252 circa?) Ingestre Deed. Sciant pr’ et fiit’ quod ego War* (warin) de Colton dedi, concessi et hac pr’ carta mea contirmavi Wmo. tilio Hervei le Bret de Colton in libero maritagio cum Juliana filia mea, et heredibus suis, &c., totum assartum meum in Wirdeshafj et unam dimidiam acram terre super Hungrehull^'\ juxta semitam Vice- comitis^ et unam acram terre in XPericlifeldf ^J Scilicet unam dimid’ acram ex una parte semitis qua itur ^ad vadiim de Riigeley . et unam aliam dimid’ acram * Warin de Colton = Warin Griffyn de Colton. t Hunger Hill (646) v. plan Semitam vicecomitis, i.e.^ Sherra- cop Lane {y. supra p 41) Perichfield = | modern “ Parchfield ” Semitis qua itur ad “ vadum ” de Rugeley,§ i.e., the present Mill liane or road to Rugeley Apparently the Trent Bridge was not yet built, the ford at the mill being in use. Coins have been found in this ford, within the memory of persons now living. 304 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON ex altera parte ejuscleni seniitis et unaiii dimid’ acrani prati in Apleton laedeioe, et unam aliam dimid’ acram terre su})er })redict’ Him^reliull propiiiqiorem predicte dimidie acre jiixtu Hemitam vice comitis versus solem (/.., the lane) ({ ducit et extendit se inter terrain Johannis de Morhay^ et dictum campum de Hasel- hurst^ cujus iinum caput ahuttat super boscum deMorhay^ et aliud super Aschele-hay {ashleyhay)^ dedi et concessi et confirmavi dicte Avicim filim mem unam placeam terrm quam emi de Ricardo filio Henrici de Fraxino (i.e.^ ash) jacen tern in canipo de llometeip inter terrain Johannis le Counter de Coltone, et terram Robert! Cradok, qum continet octodecim seliones et imam foreram, et extendit de Astelmescroft usque ad terram dicti Ricardi filii Henrici ; et unam dimidiam acram terrm jacen tern super Gildowe intra terrain Johannis Griffyn et terram quondam Hugonis le Bonde, et unam acram prati quam emi de Johanne Hereward qum j acet in prato quod vocatur le Sleeting inter pratum meum ex una parte, et pratum Johannis Griffyn ex altera, et extendit se de la Fordoles ’’ WillehniJ * Haselhurst, Morhay, and Ashleyhay : these lay between the Parchtields and the extreme south-east corner of Colton bordered by the Trent. t Astelmscroft = Ashton and Aston Croft. The changes this name has undergone are worthy of notice. t William, the lord, cannot be William le Wasteneys (for Sir John Wastenej's attests this very deed). But William de Mavesyn, the lord of Little Hay manor — and the land in the AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY 813 domini usque ad fossam versus le SoncUford^ Ha])end’ et tenend’ omiiia predicta teiieuieiita, et terras cum omnibus suis undecunque pertiiientiis de me et lieredibus meis vel assigiiatis prcedictoe Avicioe filios mem, et lieredibus suis de corpore suo ut predictum est legitime procreatis, libere, (piiete, solute, et integre, sine ullo retenemento, cum omni- bus libertatibus, libris consuetudinibus, et commodis, et aziamentis, in boscis in planis aquis viis seniitis piscariis exitibus et introitibus, et omnibus quibus- cunque commoditatibus ad predictam villam de Coltone pertinentibus. Reddendo inde milii et lieredibus meis annua tiiii, vel meis assignatis, dicta Avicia filia niea et liered sui vel assignat uiiuni denarium in festo natal’ domini, tain pro oiiiiii servitio consiietudine exactione querela auxiliis, con- tributionibus, tallagiis, sectis curie et liundredi et pro Omni re et denianda quoe de dictis tenenientis quo cunque modo exigi poterint vel requiri &c., &c. (Reversion to the said Henry and his heirs) sealed by the aforesaid Henry in the presence of these witnesses. Sir Henry Mavesyii, Sir John Wasteneys Kts., Richard de Blithfield, William de puteo (Wells) Richard his brother, Master William, John Griffyii, William the Smith, John Geoffrey, John de Morhay, John son of Walter and many others. 28rd Ed. I. (1295 A.D.) The Sunday next after the feast of St. Eadmund King and Martyr. ‘‘ Sleetings ” is now represented by Lord Bagoi’s field adjoining the Holmes. Ford-meadow {h) SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON ai4 Ingestre Deed (1275 a.d., 3 Ed. 1). To all Xtian people to whom these presents come, Alice daugliter of William Belunone (?) of Colton have released and quit claimed for me and my heirs to Robert son of John son of AValter de Colton and his lieirs, all claim or right which I now have in a certain burgage* in the vill of Colton &c. In witness whereof I have hereto set my seal — In the presence of these witnesses. William lord of Colton, Henry de Calde, Walter of the same place and others — given at Colton, on the Sunday next after the feast of St. Michael — in the third year of King Edward. Ingestre Deed (28 Ed. 1, 1300 a.d.) I Peter son of William son of Gilbert of Colton quit -claim and release, for myself and my heirs for ever, to Richard son of Simon de Hondsacre, and to A vice his wife, foi^ a certain sum previously paid me, all my rights in rents &c., which I used to receive yearly from J ohn son of Geoffrey and from Richard de Hondesacre, Christiana his wife and their heirs, given them by deed of William my father — These I give them to have and to hold freely to Richard, Avice and their heirs for ever — so that neither I Peter nor any of my heirs shall have any claim over it —usual warranty and seal — These witnesses, Robert de Colton, John son of Walter de Colton, John Moray Morhay) of Colton, Win. son of Alexander of Handsacre, Richard son of Win. le Wrfjte of Colton, and others — Done at Colton on the [* Burgesses’ rents are named in John de Caldwell’s roll.] AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 815 Thursday next the feast of Pentecost— 28 Edward 1. Gkesley Deed (c. 1285 ?j. Sciant presentes et futuri (piod ego Johannes, films Hugonis de Colton, dedi, concessi, et present! carta inea contirniavi, Willielmo Wisse de Rugeley, et heredibus suis, pro servicio suo qiiatuor seliones terre in quodain forario et aliis pertinentiis, que quidem seliones jacent in territorio de Coltone apud Xovani terrain (Newland) inter terrain Johannis le Wasteneys, et terrain predict! Johannis, hlii Hugonis de Colton, et extendunt se inter terrain Willielmi Griffyn, et terram Petri le Bret de Colton, Tenend’ &c. ; Reddendo annuatini mihi et hered’ meis unum obohiin argent! ad Pascha pro omni servicio secular!, &c. Pro hac autem donacione, &c., dedit mihi predictus Willielmus decern solidos ad ingressum pre-inanibus. In cujus rei (usual warranty). Hiis testibus ; Willielmo de Puteo (Wells), de Rugeley, Ricardo de Puteo de eadem, Henrico de Colton, Roberto filio Hugonis de Colton, Willielmo fabro de eadem, Rogero de Stivinton de Colton, Ricardo filio Henrici de eadem, et multis aliis. Gresley Deed 15 Ed. I. or Ed. 2. ? 1822 a.d. Hoec indentura testatur quod dominus Willelmus de Gasteneys de Colton, miles, tradidit, et concessit Roberto de Hethcote totum tenementum suum de Colton, quod habuit ex dimission e Willelmi de Steventon in Colton, ad totam vitani ipsius Robert!, cum suis pertinentiis. Habendum et tenendum de :316 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON predicto domino Willelmo predicto Roberto ad totam vitam suam libere et in pace. Reddendo inde annuatim })redicto domino Willelmo quatuor solidos argenti ad duos anni terminos ; videlicet, ad festum annunciationis Beate Marie duos solidos, et ad festum Scti i\Iicliaelis duos solidos argenti, ])ro omnibus serviciis predicto domino Willelmo spectan- tibus. Et predictus dominus Willelmus et lieredes sui, &c. (usual warranty) ita scilicet quod predictum tenementum predicto domino Willelmo et heredibus suis revertatur post decessum ipsius Robert!. In cujus rei testimonium predictus dominus Willelmus scripto predicto Roberto remanenti sigillum suum apposuit ; ac predictus Robertus scripto hujus in- denture predicto domino Willelmo remanenti sigillum suum apposuit: Hiis testibus ; Willelmo Griffyn de Colton, Roberto de Littleliay de eadem, Henrico de Caldewelle, Roberto tilio Joliannis tilio Walter!, Galfrido ad fraxinum (Ash), et aliis. Dat’ apud Colton die Jovis proximo ante festum annunciationis B. Marie Virginis : anno regni Regis Edwardi* quinto decimo. (15 Ed. 1.)? A small deed, seal white wax, man on horseback armed with a drawn sword. [18 Ed. 1.] (1285 A.D.) U'h'oin the Leigh deeds, thro’ Mr. Earwaker to Genrl. Wrottesley. ) * Has not ‘‘ tilii R. Ed.” been omitted ? For Sir John de Gasteneys was lord in 1287 : and Rob. de Littlehay dates c. 1321 A.D. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 817 Seiant presentes et futiiri, (|uod e^’o Heiiricus filiiis Hiille de Coltona dedi, Ricardo, filio Rogeri de Rissopcston (Bishton) clerico, et lieredibiiH suis, totum pratuiH nieuiu in prato de ‘M^imediie” (Eye meadow, ix . Island meadow) in villa de Coltona, cum omnibus suis pertinentiis, ([uod quidem pratum vocatur ‘Ce iMore,” jacens inter pratum Henrici de Colton (‘t pratum Petri le Bret ; habendum, &c. Hiis testibus, Henrico filio Hugonis de Colton, Ricardo domino de Blythefeld, Roberto deWolselega, Ada de Colwycli, Thoma Grym, Johanne Gryffyn de Coltona, Willelmo dicto le Jovene seynur, Johanne filio Ade de Colwych, Ricardo filio Robertide Wolselega, Roberto filio Henrici de Coltona, Willelmo ad Fraxinum (Ash) de Coltona, Ricardo super le Toft de Bissopeston, Ricardo Above-the-way, de eadem, et aliis. Datum apud Colton, die veneris j^roximo post festum Sancti Angus tini ; anno regni Regis Edward i, filii Regis Henrici, tertio decimo. (1285 A.D.) Stowe MSS. (170) B. Museum, (c. 1285 — 1300 ?). Sciant p, et, f, quod ego Johannes, filius Ricardi de Le, in Eadmunston (Admaston) dedi, concessi, &c., Williehno filio Felucie de Wolseleg’, quatuor seliones cum capitali selione continente in se longi- tudineni decern selionum in feodo de Colton ; jacentes inter terrain nieam, et terram dicti Willielmi in latitudine, et extendentes a predicta selione capitali usque ad terrain dicti Willielmi. Habend’ et tenend’ de me et hoer’ meis vel assignatis, vel cuicunque vendere, dare, legare, vel assignare 818 .SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON voluerit, libere, f|uiete, ; exce])ti.s viris religio.sis, et Jurbci.s. Reddoiido iiiilii aiinuatim et her’ nieis, ipsGj et liei'edes siii, uimiii deiiarium die auimncia- tionis Saiicte Marie pro omiii servicio seculari, exactione, et .seeta curie et demanda, .salvo forinseco. Pro liac auteni doiiacioiie et Imjiis carte mee confirniacione dictus Willelmus milii dedit viginti et quatuor solidos ad ingres.suni. Et ego (usual warranty); In cujus rei, &c. Hiis testibus, Edmundo de Le, Roberto de Le, Roberto de Wolseleg’, Johanne, filio Walter! de Colton, Ada de Colwiz, et multis aliis. (No date) small green seal. 34 Ed. 1. William atte Ash of Colton gives to Richard Hobet one selion of land lying in Homeley, near the land which Win. Hobet holds of me in the same tield to have and to hold the .same of the chief lord of the fee by the usual service paying yearly one farthing [quarantem ?] on the feast of the Annunciation of the B. Virgin — the usual warranty and .signature — Witnesses, William son of [worm eaten away] the Smith, John de Morhay, Richard Tenerey and others — done at Colton on the Sunday next after the feast of St. Chad in the year mcccvi. (1306 A.D.) Blithfield Deed, (undated, but probably late Ed. 1.) 1 William called the ‘Clerk,’ son of Robert de Acmundeston, give to William the elder my son, and to John his brother, live selions of land situated in the fee of Colton, between the land of William de AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 819 CheteAvvncle on the one .side, and that of Robert de Slvndon on the other, and they extend sujoer le chappellcroft ^ — and two selions of land lying in the field of llerteivalle, above the Stockem^ near the land of Richard Gamel — and three selions lying in mill field, ^ of which two are situated between the land of Richard lord of Blithtield and the land formerly belonging to Stephen the Smith of Blithtield — and the 3rd lies within the croft formerly the property of William Uyat (Wyat ?) To have and to hold of the chief lords, &c. paying yearly to Sir William le Wasteneys at Mclnns two pence, and to the Lord of Blithfeld two pence halfpenny, in lieu of all service. And if William the elder die without heirs the land is to remain to his brother John, and if John die, and leave no heirs, then William is to have it for ever. But if both die without heirs, it is to jDass to their brother Thomas, and if Thomas die without heirs, then to his brother William the younger — These witnesses Richard lord of Blithfeld, William de Chetewynde, Adam his brother, John de Stivinton, Richard de Woleston and many more. Blithfielu Deed. 1312 a.d. — 5 Ed. 2. William son of Odo de Morton grants to Richard Gamel of Blithfeld and to Xtiana his wife their heirs and assigns seven selions ... in the fee of Colton lying in Brokescroft^ within the land of Robert le Broke on the one side, above the croft Chapellcroft, near Chapell flatts A name possibly connected with the former chapel at St. Stephen’s Hill. t Mill-aeld = Hamley Mill (?) 80 ME ACCOUNT OF COLTON ;320 of William le Broke, to have and to hold to the aforesaid Richard Xtiana and their heirs freely &c., and for this grant they gave him a sum of money down — usual warranty and signature — These wit- nesses, Richard lord of Blithfeld, Richard Sweyn of Ihithfield, Richard de Wollaston, William Cradok of Admaston, Ralph de Hampton and many more — given at Colton on the Sunday in the feast of St. Timothy, a.d. 1312. — In the fifth year of the reign of King Edward son of Edward. Blithfield. 8 Ed. 2. — 1315 a.d. Richard son of Robert Colet of Lenenlond"^ to Richard the Shepherd of Blithfield gives two pieces of land with their appurtenances in Colton, of which one lies between the land of William son of Ralph and that of John son of Nicholas (?) of Blithbury — abuttingt on the meadow of the aforesaid Richard called the Brodeholm^ and the other end abutting on the land of William son of Ralph. And the other piece lies between the land of John Chichehoc and that of Roger Denys, abutting on the land of William son of Ralph & on that of Roger Denys. To have & to hold &c — these wit- nesses Richard lord of Blithfield — Ralph de Hamp- ton Robert son of John son of Walter de Colton — * “ Lenerilond.” Is this the land inclosed by Mere lane ? t In a terrier, or description of land, the sides on the breadth are said to be “ adjacentes,” i.e,, lying or bordering — and the ends only in length “ abuttantes,” or bounding. (“ Kennet’s Glossary.”) AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 321 Geoffrey at Asse (Ash) of Colton — Richard Julian of Lenenlond — Henry Cheichok, and many more — given at Lenenland-— on the tuesday next after the feast of St Dunstan, in the eighth year of King Edward son of Edward — Blithfield Deed. 8 Ed. 2 — 1315 a.d. Emma who was the wife of Robert Colet* of Lenen- lond quit claims and leases to Richard the Shepherd of Blithfield all her rights, in virtue of her dower, in two pieces of land which Richard has of the gift and feofment of Richard her brother in Colton — Witnesses Richard lord of Blithfield and many more — given at Lenenlond, on the tuesday next after the feast of St. Barnabas the Apostle, in the eighth year of King Edward 2. Blithfield Deed. 8 Ed. 2. 1315 a.d. This is the agreement made between Sir Ancelm le Mareschal on the one part, and Master Robert de Bromley and Felicia his wife on the other — namely the aforesaid Sir Ancelm gives and grants to Robert and Felicia two acres of arable land in the waste of Sir Ancelm on the one part and that of John Andrew on the other — To have and to hold the afore- said two acres to Robert and Felicia for their life time, and after their decease to Ermentrude their Daughter and her heirs — paying yearly to Sir Ancelm and his heirs eight silver pennies at Mchms and Easter — And if Ermentrude chance to die without * Colett flatts occurs in a deed, possibly identical with the modern Crabtree Flatt (?) 322 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON heirs of her body, then the two acres are to revert to the heirs of Robert and Felicia, but if they die and leave no heirs of their body then the land is to go back to Sir Ancelm & his heirs — And for this grant Robert and Felicia quit claimed and released to Ancelm a common of pasture ” in the Wilderley lands of Anselm ; reserving to themselves a certain pasture right there in the open time of the Common (tempore post fena et blada inde levata et asportata (z.c., after the crops had been cut and carried). Signed before these witnesses Sir William de Wasteneys Kt.* — William le Llouerd — William Griffin — Master Richard Tenery— Robert de Hamp- ton, and others — At Colton in the feast of the beheading of St. John the Baptist. S Ed. 2. A.D. 1316. 9 Ed. 2. Pateat omnibus quod die Dmnica juxta post festum Sancti Augustini Epis anno dom. mcccxvi, et anno regni regis Edwardi fiP regis Ed’ nono, inter Ricardum filium Henrici Holle de Colton ex parte una et Henricm de Coldewelle ex altera, convent’ in hunc modum, quod p’dictus Ricardus tradidit et ad terminum viginti quatuor annorum dimisit p’fato Henrico unam rodam terre regale (sic) de wasto doin’ Anselmi in Colton jacentem in quodam loco qui vocatur Wilderlee, ’inter terrain Johannis le Counter ex parte una et terrain Robert! Wyinar ex * The signature of William le Louerd is misleading— as the name was held, we believe, by two (if not by three) owners of Little Hay manor in succession. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 323 parte altera, et uniim capud abuttat super terrain Domi Anselmi et aliud super terrain magistri Ricardi Tenerey (sic). Habend’ et tenend’ p’dicto Henrico et heredibus suis sive assignatis suis libere quiete et in pace de me et heredibus meis usque ad terminum viginti annorum — Reddendo Dno Anselmo Marescallo et heredibus unum denarium ad fest’ Sancti MichaeF et Pasch’ (here follow the usual warranty and signa- ture) His testibus, Roberto til’ Hugonis fiP Walteri — Galfrido ad Fraxin’ — Henrico Coleman, Wmo. Ffabro — Wmo. Maynard, et multis aliis — Datum apud Colton anno et die supF diet’ Blithfield Deed. 9 Ed. 2. — 1315 a.d. Roger Denys of Blithlmry gives to Richard the shepherd of Blithfield for a certain sum to him already paid, two selions of arable land, situated in the open field called the ^ over-rmlyng at the Newlands, in width within the land of Richard aforesaid on the one side and the high roadt which * Was the open field cultivated in three portions (or rydings, V. division of Yorkshire) because tilled on the common three-field system, i.e ^ one part fallow, one for winter ploughing, one for spring ploughing (?). Over^ upper. Nos. 11 and 1, r. plan, preserve the name over in over-croit and over-meadow. t The high road in question must be the present bridle path at the far end of Bowling Alley or Mere Lane, formerly the high road to Blithfield — a similar instance occurs, where a St. Thomas’ Charter describes the bridle road from Blithfield by Oak Fields to Morton — as formerly the King’s highway. 324 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON leads from Newlands to Blithfield on the other — and it stretches lengthways from the land of William son of Ral])h the miller of Blithbury to the land of the aforesaid Richard — To have and to hold these 2 selions to Richard and his heirs for ever of the chief lords of the fee —(warranty and seal). These wit- nesses — Robert de Hampton, Richard lord of Blith- tield, Richard Julian of Newlond, John del Barr of Blithbury (Hadley-gate ?) Hugh de Smalrys* of the same and others— Done at Newlond on the Thursday next after Palm Sunday 9 Ed. 2. 10 Ed. 2. 1317 A.D. Blithfield Deed. Agreement made on the Thursday in the feast of St. Thomas, 10 Ed. 2, between William son of Ralph of the Newlonds on the one side and William le Wys of Blithbury on the other — William son of Ralph grants to William le Wys for his life, for a sum of money, an acre of land in Colton in the Newlands, situated between the land of the nuns of Blithhury\ and the land of Richard Greotfrey of Colton, and extending in length from the King’s highway leading from Blithbury to Colton to the land of Thomas le Rowe, and Henry Abell, for payment of two pence a year at Mcms. and at the Annunciation — These witnesses. Richard Julian of * The “ Smalrys ” family come from “Smallrise” in Sandon Parish. t St. Giles’ Nunnery, suppressed by Wolsey; the path con- necting it with the high road to Blitheford is still known as “the nun’s walk.” AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 325 Newlond, Hugh Ffranceys, Richard Colet, William his brother, Roger Denys, and others. Executed at the Newlands in the year aforesaid. Blithfield Deed. 14 Ed. 2. (The writing of this deed is peculiarly small and fine.) Henry de Smethewyk quit claims and releases to Thomas son of Robert de Hampton his right in one half acre of land in Colton, lying in Wilderleye, within the land of Richard Dymniok on the one side & that of Stephen Pryors* on the other. (The usual warranty & signature) — Witnesses. Richard Lord of Blithfield — Ralph de Hampton — Robert de Har- leye, Richard de Wolaston of Admaston & others, done at Admaston on the Sunday next before the feast of Xmas ? 14 — Ed. 2. 1321 a.d. 10 Ed. 2. 1317 a.d. (Deed is very much injured and discoloured.) Felicia Fallinchewolle of Colton gives to Richard Hobet of Colton three selions of land in a certain piece of ground in Homeleye Field within the land of John Andrew and that of Richard Hobet afore- said, and it extends from the land of Anselm le Mareschal to the land of William del —(obliterated). Witnesses names. William le Llouerd de Luttlehay — William Griffin — Geoffrey (obliterated) Coleman — Done at Colton on the day next after the feast of St. James. * Pryors or atte Pryors : from the Prior of St, Thomas^ the owner of the land in the name of the community. 326 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON 15 Ed. 2. Blithfield Deed — (1322 a.d.) Henry de Morhay ^^rants to Richard Lord of Blithfield twelve pence annual rent which William son of William the Smith was wont to pay for half his messuage in Colton — Witnesses William Griffin de Colton — Ralph de Hampton — Robert de Hamp- ton — Henry de Caldewell — Robert son of John son of Walter de Colton and others. Executed at Colton on the thursday in the week (?) of Pentecost. 15 Ed. 2. 15 Ed. 2. (1322 a.d.) Agreement by which Anselm le Mareschal grants to Master Robert de Bromley two acres of arable land in his waste, bounded on one side by John Andreu’s land — for payment of 8 silver pennies yearly, at Mchms and Easter, and after his death to Thomas son of Master Robert de Bromley and his heirs on the same terms, but failing heirs by him it is to revert to Anselm le Mareschal and his heirs — and for this grant Master R de Bromley gave to Anselm a certain j)asture lying in Anselm’s land in Wilderley, &c. Witnesses Sir William de Wasteneys.* Robert le Llouerd. William Griff yn. Richard de Blithfield. Robert de Hampton and others — done at Colton on the Sunday next after the feast of St. Michael. 15 Ed. 2. Grant of the Manor of Littlehay. 15 Ed. 2. (1322 a.d.) Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Robts fiP * Robert le Llouerd, i.e., the lord of “ Little Hay ” Manor. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY 327 Willmi le Young e Llouerd de Luttlehay^ dedi, concessi et liac present! carta mea contirmavi Ricardo dom de Blitlideld et Cecilie uxori ejus quartam partem manerii de Colton cum pertinentm — Habend’ et tenend’ p’dictam quartam partem manerii p’dicti Ricardo et Cecilie et heredibus de capitalibus doms feodi p servicia inde debita et consueta libere, quiete, et in pace, in perpetuum (here follow the usual warranty and seal) His testibus — Domno Wmo de Wasteneys — Roberto Mauvesyn — Wmo Grifhn de Colton, Roberto de Hampton, Rado de Hampton, Johne domno de Bromley Bagot — Roberto til’ Walter! de Colton et aliis — datum apud Colton die Lune juxta post festum Scti Johannis ante portani Latinam — anno regni regis Ed’ fib regis Edward! quinto decimo. 16 Ed. 2. Blithfield Deed. F elicia formerly wife of Master Robert de Bromley releases and quit-claims to Thomas son of Robert de Hampton all her right in lands and tenements formerly her husband’s property in Colton — Witnesses Richard de Blithfield, Robert de Harleye, Ralph de Hampton, &c. — Given at Drengeton on the Sunday next after the feast of Saint Cedde (Chad) 16 Ed. 2. 16 Ed. 2. Blithfield Deed. (1323 a.d.) Margery widow of John de Hampton of Edmund- eston (Admaston) grants to Richard Gamel of Blithfield one acre of arable land lying in Wilder- leye in the fee of Colton, in width between the land 328 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON of Henry Coleman on the one side, and that of Thomas de Hampton on the other — and she further gives him one rood of land lying near that of Hugh de Hampton, for a lease of four years — Witnesses Richard Wyniar, Ralph de Hampton, John Anderu, Win. Cradok. Done at Colton 16 Ed. 2. Blithfield Deed. 1324 a.d. 17 Ed. 2. 17. Ed. 2. I William le Wys of Blithbury give to Robert son of John de Colton that acre of land &c., in Colton which I have from William son of Ralph of the Newlands, in the held called the Xewe- lond, situated between the land of the Prioress of Blithbury on the one side and that of Thomas Dymok on the other, and one end abuts on the lane leading to Blythe as far as the end of my way (vie.) To have and to hold of the chief lords of the fee ; and after Robert’s death it is to go to Richard his son, and his heirs, but if he die without heirs, then to the right heirs of Robert son of John — Witnessed by William Griffen of Colton, Ralph de Hampton, Richard de Falde of Bromleye, Geoffrey atte Ashe of Colton, Henry de Coldwell, &c. — done at Colton on the tuesday next after the feast of Saint Diony- sius. 17 Ed. 2. (1324 a.d.) 18 Ed. 2. (1325 a.d.) William Cradok of Admaston gives to Alice daughter of John Rose de Styvington five selions of arable land in Colton in the field of Homeleye, in length between my land on the one side, and that of Richard Tenery on the other, and stretching in AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 329 length from that of Robert de Hampton to the clearing or reclaimed land (assartum) of Astelmscroft — Witnesses John de Styvington, John son of Stephen of the same place, Richard de Wolaston chaplain, Robert atte Brook, Nicholas Robyn and others— at Colton on the eve of the feast of St. John Baptist, mcccxxv. (18 Ed. 2.) 13 Ed. 2. Blithfield Deed. Robert de Littulhay acknowledges himself and his heirs to be bound to Richard Lord of Blithfield in the sum of £20 of silver for .... in lands and meadows in Colton ; to be paid to him or to his attorney at Blithfield, on Xmas day next ; Done at Blithfield on the tuesday next after the feast of St. James. 16 Ed. 2. 17 Ed. 2. (1324 a.d.) William son of Ralph of the Newelond gives to Robert son of John de Colton one acre in Colton lying in the open field called the Newelonde — between the land of Geoffrey atte Asshe on the one side and that of Adam the Smith on the other, for his life, and after his death to John his son or fail- ing his heirs after his death, then to the right heirs of John son of Robert for ever (usual warranty and seal). Witnesses, William Griffin de Colton, Ralph de Hampton, Richard de Falde de Bromley, Geoffrey atte i\sshe of Colton, Henry de Caldwell of Colton and others — Done at Colton on the tues- day next after the feast of Saint Dionysius. 17 Ed. 2. a30 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON 19 Ed. 2. (1326 A.D.) Know all men &c., that I William son of Ralph the Miller of the Newelonds have ^ven to Roljert son of Jolm, son of Walter de Colton, one acre of land in Colton situated at the Newelonds, between the land of William son of Roger le Rowe and that of Ral})h brother of the said William, in width, and Ijetween the land of the aforesaid William son of Ralph and the hendlone (?) in length — To have and to hold &c., for ever — and after Robert’s death I will that it go to Richard his son, (the usual warranty and seal) Witnesses, Richard Julian, Hugh Ffranceys, Richard Colet, Richard of the Newelond, Roger Denys, William Lleuwys and others. Done at Colton on the Wednesday next after the feast of St. Michael the Archangel — 19 Ed. 2. 19 Ed. 2. Blithfield Deed. (1326 a.d.) Indentura ista testatur quod Ricardus doms. de Blithefield, qui habuit statum (the estate) Robert! de Hanq)ton in toto bosco qui vocatur Luttelhay in Colton, concessit Roberto de Luttelhay totum p’ dictum boscum cum pertinentiis : ita videlicet quod dictus Robertus de Luttelhay capiat et habeat sine contradictione p’dicti Ricardi aut alicujus in dicto bosco herbagium, pessonam,* et ration abil’ estoveria sua ad editicand’, hayas claudendas et ad comburend’ sufficienter sine wasta ad totam vitam suam et si contingat quod dctus Kobertusde Luttlehay de dicto * Pessona (or Paisso), i.e., “ pastio porcorum in silvis, glandes.” Du Cange-glossary. AND OF THE DE WA8TENEYS FAMILY. 331 bosco aliquod vast’ fecerit, vel dictum boscum seu partem illius alicui dimiserit vel alienaverit, ex tunc totum p’ dictum boscum et omnia alia proficua amittat. Et liceat p’dicto Ricardo et heredibus suis in toto p’dicto bosco intrare et reliabere sine con- tradictione p’dict Roberti de Luttlehay. In cujus rei testimonium &c. His testibus. Wmo. Griffen de Colton, Rado de Hampton — Rob to til’ Johan de Colton, Reginaldo de Gasteneys Galfrido atte Asslie de Colton et aliis. Datum apud Colton die doinhca })rox’ post fest’ Sancti Petri in Cathedra, anno regni regis Ed’ til regis Ed’ decimo nono. 2 Ed. 3. Gresley Chartulaky. (1329 a.d.) Monsieur Thomas de Gastineys, chevaler, seig- neur de Colton, et Johanne sa feme a Johan de Blythtield et a Margaret sa feme quatre acres et demi de terre de Colton gysant en ^Ga New-lond,” et Johan et Margaret une rose a dit Thomas come Seigneur de fee &c. (2 Ed. 3). [Deed very discoloured and faint.] 4 Ed. 3. (1331 A.D.) Henry de Cal dewell gives to Richard son of Udo de Hundeston one rood of land in the fee of Colton on a ten years’ lease -the said rood lying in the field called ^ Wilderley ’ between the land of Robert (?) de Hampton and that of John le Counter — to commence from friday in feast of St. Lawrence the martyr 4 Ed. 3. Signed in the presence of Richard Lord of Blithfield, Robert son 332 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON of John de Colton, Henry Colmon of Colton, Geoffrey at Ashe of Colton — Done at Colton in the year above mentioned. 8 Ed. 3. 1335 a.d. Adam called Hobet of Colton gives to Win. called Craddok of Styvinton and to Margery his wife, the moiety of a ])iece of meadow at the Newlands, lying in breadth between the land of John Hobet and the course of the river Blithe, and stretching from the meadow of Win. son of Ralph up to the aforesaid course of the Blithe — To have and to hold &c. with free ingress and egress, and other rights to him and his wife for ever — usual warranty and seal — Wit- nesses Wm. Griffin de Colton, Robert son of John son of Walter de Colton, Richard Julian, Wm. son of Ralph de Newlond, Richard Colet of Blithbury — Done at Colton on tuesday in the feast of St. Lucy 8 Ed. 3. (W. Chetwynd’s mss.) c. 1325 (?). Hoec indentura testatur quod Ricardus, dominus de Blithfield, concessit et vendidit Loberto de Little- hay, totum croftum existent’ in tends et pratis, que et quas habuit de dono dicti Roberti in Colton pro viginti libris argenti — Insuper predictus Ricardus concessit et dimisit predicto Roberto totum messua- giuni,* boscum, et terrain, que habuit de dono predicti Roberti : et pro ista concessione et dimissione jiredictus Robertas concessit dicto Ricardo (piod venit coram Justiciariis Domini Regis ad cognoscend’ et levandum finem. (v. subsequent deed 1329 a.d.) ie.., Littlehay. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 333 (261) Gresley Deed (1344 a.d.) 16 Ed. 3. Sciarit presentes et futuri quod Ego Margeria* de Gresleye concessi et confirmavi Johanni Wymar de Morton, servienti iiieo, totain illam terrain cum pertinentiis in Colton, apud le Newelond, quam habui de dono et feoffmento Nicliolai de Chaveleye; liabend’ et tenend’ predictam terrain cum pertinentiis predicto Johanni et heredibus suis de capitali domino feodi per servicia consueta in perpetuum ; pro hac autem concessione &c. dedit milii quandam summam pecunie premanibus. In cujus rei, &c. Hiis testibus, Nicholao de Chaveleye, de Blithbury, Ricardo Colet del Newelond, Edmundo de Gresleye juniore, et aliis. Datum apud le Newelond in festo Sancti Gregorii Pape anno regni R. Edwardi torch post conquestum sexto decimo. (16. Ed. 3.) Small seal, white wax. (3 lozenge-shaped shields meeting in the centre : one of them Gresley, the second Paly wavy of 6,” the third bearing (very indistinctly) 6 annulets 2, 3, and 1.) 1333 A.D. 6 Ed. 3. Hugh de Tonstal to Robert le Broke of Admaston and John his eldest son gives four acres in Colton — 3 of which lie in Hameley field, between the land of Robert Alynor and that of Wm. Botte of Admaston, * Margery Gresley was the daughter of Sir John Vernon, Kt. and wife of Sir Geoffrey Gresley. A previous grant exists in the Gresley chartulary, dated 8 Ed. 3, from this Margaret Gresley to Matilda, widow of Richard Wymer; sealed with the same arms. 384 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON and they al)ut on the land of Wm. le Torn our of Colton— and the 4:th acre ties also in Homleye^ between tlie land of Wm. Griffyn of Colton and that of Henry at Asshe of Colton, and abuts on the land of John Peres of Colton — These lands are to pass to Robert and John for their lives — at a rent of 2s. 4d. in silver yearly — the usual warranty and seal — Witnesses, Robert son of John de Colton, Henry Colemon, Geoffrey at Asshe, Wm. Cradock of Ad- maston, John Andrew of the same, done at Colton on tuesday in the eve of St John Baptist 6 Ed. 3. 14 Ed. 3. 1341 A.D. I William called the shepherde of Newlond give to John son of John Chechhok of Xewlond one curtilage with a certain house standing on it in Colton at the Newlond,* between the messuage of Richard Cote del Newlond and the land of Nicholas le Clerke of Blithbury, and it abuts above the land of Henry le Carter, which house and curtilage I had of the gift and feoffment of Sibill and of Henry son of Hugh Clechhok of Newland and Henry called the Carter of Newlond — To have and to hold of the chief Lord of the fee for ever — Witnesses, Richard Colet of Newland, Robert Julian of Newland, Richard Clechhoke, Wm. son of Wm. son of Mdi del Newland, Nicholas le Clerk of Blithbury and others. Done at Newland on thursday next before * There seem to have been more houses, and a larger popula- tion at the Newlands then than we have now. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 885 the feast of the Translation of St. Thomas the Martyr 14 Ed. 8. 12. Ed. 8. 1889 a.d. I Henry de Smetliewick Clerk, dwelling* at La Lee, give to Win. called Cradok, dwelling at Styvinton, and to Margery his wife, five selions of arable land in Colton — of which three lie in the ^ Nether Lee croft,’ in breadth lietween my land and that of Adam de Chetewynde — and stretching from the croft of Robert le Brock as far as Wildesleorh — and the other two selions lie in Over Lee croft, from the high road near Ilay (?J as far as the open field called Wilderesley — To hold of chief Lords for ever — Witnesses, John son of Richard Lord of Blithfeld, Richard son of Robert de Hampton, Robt. son of Walter de Colton, Robert Alinor of Colton, Geoffrey atte Asshe — Done at La Lee in the feast of St. Mary Magdalene 12 Ed. 8. 14. Ed. 8. 1841. A.D. John son of Richard Julian of Newland gives to Robert his brother all rights and lands which formerly belonged to Richard in Colton, in the Newlonds — Witnesses, William Griff en of Colton, Robert son of John, Richard Colet, Thomas de Ffalde — Done at Colton on monday next after Whitsunday. 14. Ed. 8. c. 1822 (?) I Hugh le Colier de Admaston give to Margery my younger daughter ^ acre of land in Colton, situated between the land of John lord of Weston SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON 336 on the one side, and that of Richard de Wolaston on the other. Tliese witnesses Ralpli and Robert de Hampton, Robert de Berleye, Richard de Wolaston, Robert de Saperton and others. 16. Ed. 3. 1343. a.d. Robert son of Richard de Newlond enfeoffs Adam Sy^ell of Brondey Al)bats in five selions of land and one furrow of arable land lying* at the Newlonds in the fee of Colton — but the land is to return to Robert on payment of the sum of 13s. 4d. in silver — to which agreement Adam sets his seal, in the presence of these witnesses — Nicholas de Cheveley of Blithbury, Wm. le Rede of Blithbury, John de Sutton of Bromley — Done at the Newlonds on the tuesday next before the feast of St. Mark the Evangelist. 16 Ed. 3. (In this deed some portion’ has been omitted.) 17 Ed. 3. 1 William son of Ralph de Newland have give and confirmed to John my son one piece of land in Colton, lying at the Newlands, l^etween the highway which leads from Colton towards Bromley (the centre of the last word has been obliterated, but this is evidently the reading) and my premises— to have and to hold of the chief lords of the fee for ever — usual signature &c. — these witnesses, Robert del Newlond, Henry le Carter, Thomas de Benteley, Richard Colet — done at Colton on tuesday next before the feast of St. Matthew, the Apostle and Evangelist. 17. Ed. 3 — (1344 a.d.) AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 337 20 Ed. 3. (1347) I John son of Win. son of Ralph de Newland give and conhrin to John son of Richard Gylian (Julian) of Newland, one piece of land at Newland in Colton lying in width between the high way leading to Bromley on one side and the land of Win. Coleman OFi the other — and it abuts on the premises of William my father. To have and to hold of the chief lord for ever ~ Signature &c. as usual — In the presence of these witnesses, William Coleman, of Colton, Henry le Carter, of Blithbury, Richard Colet, of Newlond, Robert Gylian, Richard Clechok. Done at Newlond, on Sunday next after the feast of the Purification of the B.V. Mary, 20 Ed. 3. 20 Ed. 3. 1347 A.D. John, son of Hugh de Hampton, conveys to William Craddock, of Eadmundeston, and Margery, his wife, 9 selions, and something more in ^Astelmes- crofts^ in the fee of Colton, for a term of eight years. Sealed &c., as usual; in the presence of Richard de Woleston, chaplain, William Botte de Admaston, Thomas Craddok, and others. Done at Admaston, on the Sunday next before the feast of St. Lawrence, the Martyr, 20 Ed. 3 21 Ed. 3. 1348 a.d. John le Baxter, Baker,) of Colton, the elder, gives to Richard, son of Udo de Admaston, one rood of land in Wilderley, situated between the land of * Probably the Aston croft and Ashton croft of a later period — adjoining Blithfield parish. 338 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Dmns. Anselm le Mareschal, and that of John Dykesone, for a term of 22 years next ensuing (to commence at Michaelmas, 21 Ed. 3), signed as usual in the presence of William Maynard de Colton, John Hobet, Adam Atte Asshe, of Colton, John Dykeson, Thomas Craddok, of Admaston. Done at Admaston in the above-named yeare. (268) Gresley Deed. (1345 a.d.) 19 Ed. 3. Grant and sale by Humphrey Hastang, Archdeacon of Coventry, to William de Bromley, his clerk, of all his goods and chattels in all his tenements, which he acquired by grant and feoffment from Robert son of John, son of Walter de Colton, in the fee of Colton, Morton, Heywode, and Bishton — Datum apud Colton,” morning after the Nativdty of St. John the Baptist, 24 June (19 Ed. 3) 1345 a.d. — With small official seal. (7925.) Philipps MSS. 17 Ed. 3 (1344 a.d.) Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego, Ricardus de Wollaston, capellanus, dedi, concessi &c., Thome Cradock de Admundeston, et Margerie filie Thome de Hampton, uxori sue,etheredibus de corporibus predic- torum Thome et Margerie exeuntibus, totam illam dirnidiam virgatam terre cum pertinentiis in Colton, cum domibus, et gardinis, et curtilagiis, predict’ dimid’ virgate terre adjacentibus, quam et quasprius habui de dono et feoffmento predict! Thome Cradock in efidem, Habend’ et tenend’, &c., predictis Thome et Margerie etheredibus &c., de capitalibus dominis feodi per servicia que ad predictam terrain pertinent AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 839 (warranty and seal) ; Hiis testibus, Ricardo, domino de Blytlifeld, Roberto filio Johannis de Colton, Thoina de Hampton, Ricardo de Hampton, Johanne filio Johannis de Hampton, et aliis ; Datum apud Admimdeston juxta Blithfeld die mercurii proxima ante Festum Sancti Valentini, anno regni Regis Edwardi tercii post conquestum septinio decimo (1344 A. D.) Philipps MSS. (1352 a.d.) 25 Ed. 3. Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Robertus, hlius Ricardi de Stivyngton, dedi &c., Willielmo, filio Nicholai Robyn de Admundeston, lieredibus vel assignatis suis, unam selionem terre cum pertinentiis in feodo de Colton, jacentem in Harte-Wallefeld,” inter terrain Thome Cradock de Styvyngton,* ex parte una et terrain Johannis, filie Johannis de Hampton, ex parte altera, et abuttat super foreram quam Johannes dominus de Blithfeld tenet (warranty and seal) Hiis testibus Johanne de Stivyngton, Johanne filio Johannis de Hampton, Ricardo filio Johannis, filio Hugonis de Hampton, Johanne le Brok de Admundeston, Willielmo le Brok de Admundeston, et aliis. Datum apud Admundeston. die dominica proxima post festum Sancti Ambrosii, et in festum ramis palmarum (25 Ed. 3). (284) Gresley Deeds. 26 Ed. 3. (1353 a.d.) Placita apud Westm. coram J. de Stonore, et sociis ejus, Justiciariis domini Regis de Banco a die S. * Called de Admaston in 1344 deed — which goes to confirm the identy of Stivyngton with Stephen’s Hill 1 340 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Trinitatis in XV. dies aino regni Edwardi Regis Anglie tercii a conquestii, Ancesinio sexto ; et regni sui Francie tercio deciino. (Staff.) Johannes de Gresleye, cliivaler, et Johanna uxor ej us, per Roger uin de Gresleye attornatuni suuni ob(tulit) se quarto die versus Henricum de Rugge- leye, de placito unius inolendini^ cum pertinenciis in Colton, quod clamaverunt ut jus ipsius Johanne per hreve Regis ^G|uare cessavit &c.” hit ipse non venit per biennium ; et alias fecit defaltam hie scilicet a die Sancti Hillari in XV. dies proximos preterites postquam summonit’, &c. Ita quod tunc prec( eptiini) fuit vice{comiti) quod caperet pre dictum molendinum in manum domini Regis et diem, &c. Et quod summon’ ’eum quod esset hie ad lune diem scilicet a die Sancte Trinitatis in X^ dies tunc proxim(os) sequentes &c. Et Vicecomes modo testatur diem capeionis, et quod sum’ &c. Ideo consid(eratum) est quod predicti Johannes et Johanna reciperent inde seisinam suam, versus eum, per defaltam &c., et idem Henricus in misericordia. 21 Ed. 3. 1348 a.u. I, Roger Alienor, give to John Atte Brok, the elder, one curtilege, with the croft adjacent extend- ing in length from the high road, as far as the t ‘Hokfield^’’ and one acre of land lying in Wilderes- ley, which 1 bought of Adam Brown, and two * The Mill in question is the Trent water mill of Domesday Survey. (This trial has been already noticed.) t Hokfield = Higgtield (No. 10 on plan?) AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. Ml selions in Homeley, lying between the land of Sir Thomas de Wasteneys, on the one side, and that of William de Bromle}^ on the other. I liave also given John Atte Brok, half an acre of land in llartewallesfeld,^ which abuts on the road leading towards Middlehay. And I have also given him half an acre in Hertwallesfeld, called the Ilongijnge half acre ^ and likewise two butts of land lying above the Crojtes^ between the land of the Lord of Blith- field, and stretching above the holding of Win. Cradok, of Styvinton. To have and to hold of the chief Lord of the fee for ever— usual warranty and signature. In the presence of these witnesses — Robert Alienor, of Colton, William, son of Wm. Clerk, John de Hampton, and others, done at Admaston on the Friday, in the feast of St. Lawrence, 21 Ed. 8. 22 Ed. 3. 1849 a.d. 1, Richard Coleman, of Colton, give to Richard, son of John Lord of Blithfeld, and his heirs : one acre of arable land lying in the field called Mulne- wardefeldf between the land of Wm. Colman, and that of Robert Julian, in width, and it extends in length from the land of Sir Thomas de Gasteney’s, to the lane (venellam) called the Wahchemomid s lane.^^'\ To have and to hold quietly, &c., of the * Hartewallesfield, was this situated near Hunger hill Sherra Cop lane, near the Blithfield road ? t The Welshman’s Lane — from Rob. Julian’s name and Ric de Newlands appears to have been on the Newlands side of Colton. The modern “ Degge’s leasow ” is also known as “ mill ditch ” — q_^rVV4.-0^. »342 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON chief lords of the fee by the wonted services. Signed, &c., before these witnesses — William le Smyth, of Colton, llobert Julian, of Xewlond, Richard de Xewlond. Done at Colton, on the Thursday next, ])efore the feast of St. Dunstan, 22 Kd. 3 (1*349 A.D.) 22 Ed. 3. 1349 a.d. I, Richard, son of Robert de Hampton, give and confirm to Jolm, son of Robert del Brok de Ead- mundeston, one piece of meadow and pasture, with its liedges and ditches, &c., in Colton, which piece is called Tliilxkeg'i 'eve (Xo. 688), and lies in Hamley field, between the land of Adam, son of Geoffrey Atte [Hjash, which is also called Thickgreve, and it abuts on the land of Anselm le Mareschal, and that of Eleanor Gryffen* on the one side, and the i‘on(lh (brueram) land on the other. To have and to hold for ever of the chief Lord of the fee by the usual service, paying yearly to me two silver pennies. Signed before these witnesses — John Lord, of Blithfeld, Robert Alienor, of Colton, Adam, son of Geoffrey Atte [H]assch, of Admaston, and otliers. Done at Admaston, on the Sunday in the feast of St. Clement, 22 Ed. 3. (1349 a.d.) Sir Thomas de Wasteiieys land was tithe free, and there is a consideral>le piece of tithe free land near that {y. No. 88 on plan). If so, it might be the small lane leading from the Newland’s road to that land. But it must remain very uncertain. Eleanor Griffen, probably Alienor de Verdon, widow of Wm. Griffyn(1342 a.d.) AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 343 23 Ed. 3. 1350 a.d. Henry, son of Hugh de Colton, gives to John (?) son of doms. Adam de Chetewynde, five selions in Wilderley, for a yearly rent of seven pence, receiv- ing for this grant the sum of 5s. 8d. paid down. Signed, &c , before these witnesses — J ohn Geoffrey, William Wijgen^ Ralph Sprott, and others. Done at Colton on the feast of St. Valentine, 23 Ed. 3. 1350 A.D. I, John Chechehok, of Newlond, give to Alice, widow of Wm., son of Ralph, of Newlond, one piece of land and one selion, adjacent in ^ Oottehohi’ fields lying between the land of Henry le Carter, and the river Blithe. Also, I have given her one piece of meadow land, and two perches adjacent in the ‘ Wallemedewe^ in the ^ Me refield. And one selion and two other perches of land in the aforesaid field, lying near the land of Henry the Shepherde. And I have further given her two butts of land in the field aforesaid, near the land of the fore-named Henry. To have and to hold, &c. Sealed in the presence of William de la Hul, of Bromley, Robert le Cok, of Bromley, John Anneys, Richard de Efalde, William Clerk. Done at the Newlond, on the Friday next after the feast of the Anunciation of the B. V. Mary, 23 Ed. 3. (1350 a.d.) 23 Ed. 3. (1350 a.d.) 1, William, son of William Atte Asch, of Colton, * The Meretield must have adjoined Mere Lane. 844 SOME ACCOUNT’ OF COLTON give to John, son of Robert le Brok, two acres in Colton, lying in Hoinley field, l)etween the land of Henry Bayn (?) and that of the aforesaid John, and it abuts on the land of Jolin Perus, on one side, and on "^Mulnedych on the other, for a term of 20 years, next ensuing, 28 Ed. 8. He paying me a rent yearly of eight silver pennies. Signed, &c., before John, Lord of Blithfield, Adam Atte Asch, of Colton, John Andrews, Roger Alienor and his brother, and others. Done at Admaston, in the year above-named. 24 Ed. 8 (1351 a.d.) 1, William Alinor, of Admaston, to Win., son of John le Clerk, of Stowe, and to Agnes, his wife, convey all my rights and lands, &c., in the fees of Colton, Heywode, Blithfeld, and Newton for ever. Sealed, &c., before these witnesses — Richard de Hampton, Richard, son of John de Blithfeld, John de Styvington, and others. Done at Admaston, on the Tuesday next, before the feast of St. Simon and St. Jude, 24 Ed. 8. 26 Ed. 8. (1358 a.d.) 1, Hugh de Tunstall de Bissopeston, clerk, give and convey to John le Brok, of Eadmaston, one acre of arable land, situated in the fee of Colton, in Homeley field, lying between the land of Jolm, himself, and that of Win. Stikebukke, and it stretches from the land of Sir John de Gresley, as far as Mulnhrook, Signed before John de Hampton, * Ilamley Mill Ditch. AND THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 345 John de Styvington, William del Lyglies, of Colton, William de Knotton, John Wymar, of Newlond. Done at Colton, on the Friday next after the feast of St. Barnabas, the Apostle, 26 Fd. 3. (1353 a.d.) 29 Ed. 3. (1356 a.d.) 1, William, son of Hugh Wymar, give and grant to Richard, son of John Botte, of Admaston, two pieces of meadow in the Newland, lying in lireadth between ^ Huggefeld ’ and the river Blithe, and stretching to the Meer^ and the land of John Wvmar (almost obliterated), and the other place lies in "^Emedetve (corrupted into Haymeadow ?) between the meadow of the parson of the church of Colton on the one side, and that of William Colemon on the other, and extends from the river Trent to Trent fields. To have and to hold, &c., usual signature. These witnesses — Roger Poore, parson of Blithfeld, John de Brok, R. de Hampton, John de Styvington, &c. Done at Mchms., 29 Ed. 3. Blithfield Deed. 30 Ed. 3. (1357 a.d.) Ralph Bagot, son and heir of Sir John Bagod, Kt. of Bromley Bagod, gives to Richard, son of John de Blithfeld, all his lands and tenements in the fees of Colton, Blithfeld, and Newton, with the rents, &c., which Mauld (WitJ for Maud ? ) Wymar, and Thomas Wymar, hold of me in Admaston. f * Eye Meadow (251-252, on plan.) t There is a copy of this deed in the Harl. MSS. B.M. 346 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Ingestkk Deed. 22 Ed. 3. (1349 a.d.) Richard Cliy choke, of Xewlond, gives to John, son of Henry Cheichok, of Newlond, seven selions of arable land situated in the fee of Colton, in the open field called Waggestane* field, joining my land on the one side, and the land of Sir Thomas de Wasteneys on the otlier, extending from the land of the Prior of St. Thomas’ near Stafford, as far as the handlone. These witnesses — Richard Colet, of Newland, Robert Gylian, of Newlond, William Maynard, of Colton, AVilliam, the Smith of Colton, the younger, and others. Given at Colton, on the 7th day of Easter, 22 Ed. 3. (1349 a.d.) lNGr:sTKE Deed. 1, Roger, son of Win. de Newlond, give to Henry, son of Hugh, and to John, his brother, of Newlond, seven selions of arable land in the fee of Colton, within the land of Hugh de Newlond, and that of Richard Julian in width, and stretching in length from Blakelake to the high road, to have and to hold of me and my heirs by a yearly rent of six silver pennies, payable half-yearly, and for this grant they have ])aid nu^ four silver shillings. Witnessed by Nicholas de Newlond, Ixobert Coiet, of Blit h bury, Richard de Newlond, Hugh Ffranceys, of Blithbury, Ralph, the miller of Blithbury. Thomas de Herdewyk, and many others. * Now called “ Wa^^stnff” (No. 30 on plan). AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 347 Ingestre Deed, 32 Ed. 3. (1359 a.d.) John, son of Hugh do Chethehocke,* gives to Henry, his son, all his rights and claims in 6 selions of land in the fee of Colton, within the land of Hugh de Newlond and that of Richard Julian in width, and extending in length from Blakelake to the high road, &c. Witnessed by Robert Colet, Thomas de Herdewyke, Richard Julian, Richard Tenten and others. Griven at Colton, on the Tuesday next before the feast of St. Chad, 32 Ed. 3. A.D. 1352 (Ingestre) 25. Ed. 3. Let all men know that 1 John son of Robert Stykbok of Colton have released for ever for me and my heirs to Sir John Gresley Kt. and to Joanna his Avife, and to the heirs and assigns of the aforesaid Joanna, the moiety of one piece of ground which Robert Hugyn held in Colton, and one acre of land in Hazellmrst situated between the holding of John son of Robert Stykbok on the one side, and the land of Cuyly on the other, and it extends to the high road and to a certain open held called Croffes ; and the aforesaid acre of land lies within the land of the aforesaid Sir John Gresley, Kt. on either side and extends towards the Oxeije^ and the land of Wm. * Or, Olechehocke. t This land of William, the Smith, from its position near the “Oxeye’' and “ Hazlehurst,” must be the same which Sir William de Wasteneys granted in 1279 a.d. to a former William, the Smith, not far from the river, between the Parchllelds and the Mill. :348 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON tlio Smith — I have also released to Sir John Gresley and his wife all my rig-lit and claim in one rood of land in Homeleye super Himgerhiir, and in one rood of meadow in Oxempde which extends to a certain stream and a certain s})ring* of Geoffrey at Essh (ash ?) and half an acre of land which lies in ‘ which Adam Hondeson formerly held, which extends towards Grasshaye and towards th(‘ land which Sir Wm. de ]\[orley, Kt. had. — Signed in the presence of these witnesses, Wm chaplain of Colton, t Wm. de Knotten,:]: Wm. le Clerk, Thomas de Stalhrok, Wm. Wys. John Hobets of Colton, Wm. le Parker and others — at Colton on the Sunday next after the feast of St. Nicholas Bishop, in the year of King Edward Illrds. reign over England the 25th and of his reign over Ffrance the 12tli (1352 A.D.) A.D. 1357. Ingestre Deed. 30 Ed. 3. Sciaiit presentes et futuri quod ego Ricardus til’ Roberti de Hampton dedi, concessi et hac presenti carta mea confirm a vi Ade Prentys de Heywode illud messuagium cum pertinentiis quod quondam fuit Magistri Roberti de Bromley e, quod jacet exopposito ten Wmi. de Clietwynde in feodo de Colton, et unam * Tot’t — an enclosure,’' and is a Danish word. t Was “ William chaplain” the William Godwin^ chaplain of the plea roll ? At this date Hugh Ffordyan was rector of Colton. Possibly William served the chapel once standing on the site of Bellamore Lodge grass plot. I William de Knotton occurs in the Fine of Sir Thomas de Wastineys, entailing Colton Manor. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 849 placeani terre jacenteni in Homeleye juxta terram Wini. (le Clietwynde ex iina parte et terram Joliaimis Andreii ? (almost olditerated) ex altera parte. Et aliam placeam terroe cum forera in eodem campo jacenteni juxta terram Roberti Alinore juxta capud supra dicte terroe, et tertian i placeam terroe jacenteni in eodem campo juxta messuagium Joliannis del Lee, et extendit se a crofto quondam Johannis Andreu usque ad terram Henrici Wilchar : et quartam placeam terroe jacenteni in Homeleye' inter terram Willmi. clerici ex una parte et terram quoe quondam fuit Eve* de Clietwynde ex altera part(', et unani selionem terroe jacenteni in eodem cam])o juxta terram Wnii. de Penne et imam placeam terrce vocatam Coleteflatts jacentem in eodem campo Et duas placeas terroe jacentes in le ^ Netherlecrofts ’ quarum una jacet juxta messuagium quondam Eve de Clietwynde, et alia placea terroe extendit se super predictum messuagium et totum pratum iiieum cum pertinentiis in feudo de Colton jireter quamdam par vain placeani prati quain Alicia soror mea de me tenet. Habend’ et tenend’ &c. Datum apud Colton die Martis juxta post festum Annunciacionis Be’ Marie’ Anno regni regis Edwardi tertii post conquestum tricesinio. His testibus Jolmne de Gresley Dom. de Colton, Rogero de Aston Milit’, Henrico de Blytliefeld clico, Thome de Stalbrok, Joline le Cook, Henrico de Puys, Johne Penne (?) et aliis. * Eva de Chetwynde, otherwise Eva de Oswaldstre. t “ Colette Flatts,” described as in Hamley = “ Crab tree” Flat? 350 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON (290.) Gkesley Charters. 37 P]d. 3. (1364 a.d.) Hoec iiulentura facta inter Johanneni Louterel de Boulby, ex parte una, et dominum Johannem de Gresley, militeiii, et dominam Johannam uxorem dicti domini Joliaimis, ex [)arte altera, testatur, videlicet, quod dictus Johannes Louterel ad totam vitain suain concessit et dedit dictis domino Johanni, et domiiie Johanne, et eorum assignatis, omnia messuagia sua, gardina, curtilagia, terras, prata, moras, boscos, pascua, pasturas, redditus et servicia, et molendinwn situm ventriticum^ et tene menta sua omnimoda cum pertinentiis, que et quas dictus Johannes Louterel j^rius habuit in Colton, ad terminum vite sue, ad commodum suum inde et ubique faciendum, sine aliqua calumpnia vasta, de dono et concessione domini Willielmi de Morleye, militis, in Colton, cum omnibus juribus et pertinen- ciis suis communibus pasturis, turbariis, piscariis, et omnibus aliis commoditatibus, libertatibus, et omni- modis aliis proficuis et asiamentis capiendis tain boscorum quam aliorum tenementorum excepta advocacione ecclesie Beate Marie de Colton; Habend, et tenend’ omnia predicta tenementa, et totum molendinum ventriticum, cum pertinenciis, cum omnibus juribus et pertinenciis, suis communibus pasturis, turbariis, piscariis, et omnibus aliis com- moditatibus, libertatibus, asiamentis, et proficuis capiendis tarn boscorum quam aliorum tenementorum, et cum homagiis, releviis, wardis, et maritagiis redditibus et serviciis omnium tenencium de tenenciis (?) eorum exeuntibus in Colton sine aliquo AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 851 retenemento et sine aliqua calunipnia vasta (excepta adv^ocacione predicta) predictis domino Johanni et domine Johanne, et eorum assignatis, ad totam vitam dicti Johannis Louterel, de dicto Johanni Loiiterel in eodem statu sicut dictus Johannes Louterel omnia predicta tenementa, cum omnimodis proficuis et com modi tatibus ut predictum est, tenuit per servicium sex marcarum argenti, vel auri, solvend[arum] annuatim apud Drakelowe ; videlicet ad festum Sancti Michaelis Archangeli, pro omnibus serviciis, et securalibus demandis. Et dictus domi- nus Johannes, et domina Johanna, concesserunt pro eis et eorum assignatis, quod post vendicionem, et succisionem bosci, qui vocatur Marchalshey,” salvabunt dictum boscum per tres an nos in separalp], et quod tota vita ipsius Johannis Louterel domos in capitali messuagio existentes in adeo bono statu, quo eas receperunt, dimittent, et quod si dictus redditus sex marcarum in parte vel in toto per viginti dies post dictum festum Sancti Michaelis a retro fuerit, ex tunc bene liceat dicto Johanni in omnibus predictis tenementis distringere, et districtionem retinere quousque de omnibus arreragiis plenarie fuerit ei satisfactum. Et dictus Johannes Louterel ad totam vitam suam omnia predicta tenementa cum molendino ventritico, et cum omnibus aliis proficuis &c. (usual warranty and seal), ' Hiis testibus, Radulpho Bagot, domino de Blithfeld, Thoma Mauvesyn, Magistro Henrico de Blithfeld, Hugone le White, Johanne de Wolseleye, Willielmo de Knotton, Thoma Dimmok de Colton, 352 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON et aliis. Datum apud Drakelowe, die lune in festo Apostolorum Philippi et Jacobi, (May 1st) anno- regni Regis Edwardi tercii p.c. tricesimo Septimo (1364 A.D.) small seal undecipherable. 43 FA. 3. (1370 a.d.) Thomas de Hampton grants to Thomas son of Sir Roger de Aston Kt., all the property he holds by the gift and feoffment of William de Chetwynde Kt., in Haywode, Huxston (Hixon) Colton &c. Witnessed by Sir William de Chetwynd Kt., Thomas de Colwych, John de Wolseley and many others — given at Ingestre on the friday before the feast of St. Fabian and St. Sebastian Martyrs, in the 43rd year of king Ed. 3. (320.) Gresley Deed, 1374 (47 Ed. 3). Hoec indentura facta inter dominum Johannem de Gresleye militem, et Johannam uxorem ejus, ex parte una, et Johannem filium Willielmi le Clerk, de Col tun ex parte altera, testatur, quod dicti dominus Johannes, et domina Johanna dederunt &c. Johanni, filio Willielmi le Clerk, et assignatis suis unam placeam terre, et pasture, cum pertinentiis suis in Colton que vocatur ‘Ge Biech-heye ” (or Brech-hay) jacentem inter separale (sic) quondam Ricardi de Hampton, quod vocatur Wildurley- mor,” ex una parte, et le Prior’s “ Kine-wards-ley,” ex parte altera, in excambium pro habendo Griffensmore^^^ cum crofto adjacente, cum perti- nentiis in Colton, jacente inter Colenioii’s-more^'' AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY 853 ex parte una, et le Biechmore, ex parte altera. Habend’ &c. per servicium unius rose annuatim ad festum Nativitatis S. Johannis Baptiste. Hiis testibus, Henrico Pays, (Wells) de Rugeley, Ada le Prentys de eadem, Thoma Dymok de Colton, Johanne Griffyn de eadeni, Galfrido Colemon de eadem, Nicholao le Prechour, de eadem, Thoma fabro de eadem ; Dat’ apud Colton die veneris in festo Sancti Johannis ante portam Latinam, anno regni Regis Edwardi tercii post conquest’ quadra- gesimo septimo (47 Ed. 8). No. 329. Gresley Charter (1877 a.d.) 50 Ed. 8. Sciant p, et f, quod Ego Johannes Stykebocke de Colton dedi, concessi, &c. domino Johanni de Gres- ley e militi, et domine Johanne, uxori sue, heredibus, et assignatis dicte domine Johanne unam dimidiam acram prati cum pertinenciis in Colton, jacentem in Oxemedewe,” inter pratum domini ex una parte, et pratum Willelmi Atte-Asch ex altera parte ; Habend’ et tenend’ totam dictam dimidiam acram prati cum pertinenciis dictis domino Johanni, et domine Johanne, heredibus et assignatis dicte domine Johanne liber e et pacifice in perpetuum. Et ego vero dictus Johannes, et her’ niei, (usual warranty and signature) Hiis testibus, Magistro Henrico de Blythefeld, Henrico Puys, Johanne le clerke de Colton, Thoma Dymniok de Colton, Ricardo de Hampton, et aliis. Dat’ apud Colton die lune in festo Sancti Dunstani, anno regni Regis 854 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Edwardi tereii post conquestiim quinquagesinio. (50 Ed. 8j small rod seal of no importance). (Xo. 880.) Gkesley Deed (2 Kic. 2). 1879 a.d. 8ciant }), et f, quod ego Willelmus Prentyse do Colton d('di &c. domino Jolianni do Gresleye militi, ot domiiK' Jolianno uxori ojus, unam dhnidiam aci*aiu ])rati cum portin’ in Colton, jacontem in ( )x(Mnedo\ve, inter pratum p’dictorum doinini Joliannis ot domino Johanne ex utraque parte. Habend’ et tenend’ de (*npitali domino feodi illius |)er serAucia inde debita, et de jure consueta, libere (4 pacibcc' in perpetuuni. Hiis testil)us, Magistro Henrico de Hlythtield, Johanne le Clerk de Colton, Johanne Gryffyn de eadem, \yillielmo de Penne, Johanne z^lyanore de Colton, et aliis ; Dat’ apud Colton die dominica proxima post festuin Purifi- cacionis Beate Marie, anno regni Regis Ricardi secundi secundo. (Red seal, figures defaced.) (844.) Gresley Deeds (1888 a.d.) 6 Ric. 2. Sciant presen tes et futuri quod Ego Thomas de Morlee, miles, marescallus Hibernie, dedi, concessi &c. domino Jolianni de Gresleye, militi, et doinine Johanne, uxori sue, heredibus et assignatis dicte domiiH' Johanne, omnia, terras, (‘t tenementa mea, redditus, et servicia, cum pertinentiis, quo habeo in Colton, in comitatu 8taffordie, cum adA’ocacione ecclesie beate Marie ejusdem Aulle, concessi etiam, et dedi, predictis, domino Jolianni de Gresleye, et Johanne, (4 h(*redibus, et assignatis, dicte Johanne AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 355 revercionem omnium terrarum et tenementorum, redd’ et servic’, cum advocacione ecclesie p’dicte, cum pertinentiis, que Johannes Luterel tenet ad terminum vite sue in eadem villa ex concessione domini Willelmi de Morlee, patrismei, de hereditate mea. Et que post mortem predict! Johannis Luterel, michi et heredibus meis reverti deberent integre remaneant predicto domino Johanni de Gresley et Johanne, et heredibus et assignatis dicte Johanne. Habend’ et tenend’ omnia jD’dicta, terras et tenementa, redditus et servicia, cum advocacione ecclesie, simul cum revercione p’ dicta, quandocunque acciderit, &c., &c., de capitalibus dominis feodi per servicia inde debita et consueta, &c., et ego p’dictus Thomas (usual warranty and seal) Hiis testibus, Domine Willelmo Chetewint, domino Roberto Maversyn, domino Johanne Bagot, domino Thoma de Aston, domino Thoma de Thomantorn, militibus. Thoma ‘^of ye Stonnis-yode,” Roberto Cook de Bromley Abbot ; Dat’ apud Colton, in festo Sancti Petri, quod dicitur ^^ad vincula,’’ anno regni Regis Ricardi secundi post conquestum, sexto. 6 Ric. 2 (1383 A. D.). Gresley Deed (345). A power of attorney by Thomas de Morlee Kt. to Edmund Toly,* and John Marchys, to deliver seisin of the above named lands in Colton, same date, good seal of arms broken. *[A near relative, probal>ly, of Joan de Gresley.] 356 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON 10 Richard 2. 1387 a.d. Blithfeld Deed. Sciant p’et f’ quod nos Wins. Botte et Margaret’ uxor mea d’, con’, et hac present! carta nostra con- firmavimus Ricardo Marchal rectori de Blith(field) Henrico de Frodesham capellano, Thome le Taillore et Ncho Botte, omnia tenement a, terras, prata, pascua, &c. in feodo de Colton et Blith(feld). Hahend’ et tenend’ omnia p’ dicta tenementa p’dicto Ricardo, Henrico, Thome et Nchlo, et heredibus vel assignatis, quiete et in pace de domns feodi illius per debita seiudcia (usual warranty and seal) His testibus Henrico de Blith(feld) Thome de Stones, Rado de Hamptono, Wmo. Parker, Ricard de Sonde, Henrico Gamel et aliis — Datum Apud Admundeston die martis proxima post fest’ Sancti Michaelis. Anno regni regis Ricardi secundi post conquestum Anglie decimo. Ingestre Deed. 22 Richard 2. 1399 a.d. Sciant presen tes et futuri quod ego Johes Cook de Bromley dedi concessi et hac present’ carta mea confirmavi Thomasine de Gresley dhe Colton omnia terras et tenementa prata, pascua et redditus cum pertinentiis suis que habeo in feodo de Colton, Habend’ et tenend’ &c. ji’dicte Thomasine heredibus et assignatis suis de capital’ dho feodi illius per servitia hide debita &c. libere &c. (the usual warranty) In cujus rei testimoni’ huic p’senti carte sigillum meum apposui — His testibus Johhe Clerkson, Johhe Clerk de Colton, Rogero Priours, Synione le Parker, Thome le — et aliis. Datum apud AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 357 Colton die Jo vis juxta post festum Scti Michls anno regni regis Ricardi secundi vicesimo secundo. (374.) GtRESley Deeds (1405 a.d.) 6 Hen. 4. Sciant presentes et futiiri quod ego Thomas de Gresley, miles, dedi, concessi &c. Philippo de Repingdon, Episcopo Lincolniensi, Thome Langley, tunc cancellario Anglie, Thome Maureward militi, Roberto Waterton, Petro de Melburne, Nicholao Bradschaw, Roberto Twyford, Johanni Foljaumbe, Kicardo de Burton, et Ricardo de Hylton, omnia, terras, et tenementa mea, dominia redditus, et servicia, tarn liberorum, quam nativorum, prata, pascua, et pasturas, una cum advocationibus ecclesiarum, et cum omnibus pertinentiis suis in Colton, et alibi in comitatu Staffordie, in Osgarthorpe et alibi in comitatu Leycestrie, in Brassyngburgh in comitatu Lincolnie, et in Seton et alibi in comitatu Ebor (ascensi’) que, et quas, quondam fuerunt domino Thome Wasteneys avi mei, et que michi, post mortem domine Thomasine de Gresleye matris mee, jure et hereditate descende- bant ; et omnia alia, terras, et tenementa que habeo in predictis comitatibus et alibi. H abend’ et tenend’ omnia predicta, terras, et tenementa, dominia (ut supra) predictis Philippo, Thome de Langley, Thome Maureward, Roberto, Petro, Nicholao, Roberto, Johanni, Ricardo, et Ricardo, heredibus et eorum assignatis de capitalibus dominis feodorum illorum, per servicia hide debita et de jure consueta. Et ego vero predictus Thomas de Gresley et heredes 358 SOME ACCOUNT OB^ COLTON mei (usual warranty and seal). Hiis testibus, Johanne de Ardern, Roberto de Fraiiiiceys, Jolianne Bagot, Willelmo Newport, militibus, Xicliolao de Ruggeley, et aliis. Data apiid Colton die mercurii in festo beate Marie Magdalene, anno regni Regis Henrici quarti post conquest um sexto. (6 Hen. 4.) Seal of Gresley arms. (376.) Gresley Deed (c. 1405 a.d.; Ceste endenture tripartite tesmoigne que Phelippe de Rej)ingdon, Evesque de Nichol (Lincoln', Thomas Langley donqes (done) Cliaunceller d’Engle- terre, Thomas Maureward chevaler, Robert de Waterton, Piers de Melburne, Nichol de Bradschawe Robert de Twyford, Johan Foljaumbe, Richard de Burton, et Richard Hilton, referront (sic) Thomas de Gresley, chevaler, en touz les terres et tenementz on lez appurtenauntz en Colton, en la comite de Staff ; et aillowrz oue en asquun parcel de eux les queux ils ont de donne et feoffment de dice Thomas de Gresley, a quele heure que mesme le Thomas eux vorra (sic) demander, ou requirer, oue a auquun qie voll assigner, oue en quele autre maner. Et si le dice Thomas de Gresley demie sans anquun reffeffment que adonqes les feffees avantnommes estorent en leur feoffement durant le nonage del heir de mesme le Thomas. Et dame ^Marguerite femme mesme le Thomas prendra les profetez de terres et tenementz avaimdicez al eide del eisne file de mesme le Thomas par la veu de dicez feffees quaunque la dice dame Marguerite estoise soule sanz marri. Et si ele prent marri el mesme temps que AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 859 adinqes Nicliol Bradschawe, Richard de Burton, et Richard Hylton, prendroient lez profetez de dicez terres et tenementz ou lez appurtenantz par la veu dez feffez avauntdicez diirant le nonnage del heir avauntdice al aide de dice tile. Et quaunt Their le dice Thomas Gresley vient al plein age loz feffees avauntdicez enf efferent le dice heire en tonz lez terres et tenementz avauntdicez, one tonz maneres appurtenantz a lui et sez lieires de son corps engendrez. Et sie le dice heire demie sanz lieires de son corps engendre, as droites lieires de dice Thomas de Gresley retournera par tonz jours. (Fine seal of Gresley and Wasteneys arms (juarterly) (c. 1405 ?). ^ Ingestre Deed, 10 Henry 4 (1409 a.d.) Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Johes Bygrave de Blythefeld dedi concessi et hac present! carta mea confirmavi Johanni Banastur de Colton unum cotagium quondam AYilhni Stretton in Newlond, et duodecim seliones terre, quarum quinque seliones jacent in Huggefeld cum una forera, extendentes super dictum cotagium ad finem anstralem, et ad alteram finem butt’ super Blakelake^^ et due seliones terre jacent in eodeni campo inter terrain quondam Roger! Grace ex utraque parte, et quatuor seliones terre simul jacent in Waggestesfeld inter terrain Domni vocat’ Stevenfeld et terrain quam Wins, de Newlond, nuper tenuit de Willmo. Londesdale. Habend’ et tenend’ p’ dictum cotagium et duodecim seliones * The Blakelake, which occurs repeatedly iu the deeds, was near Huggefeld, No. 10 on plan. 360 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON p’dict’ cum pertin’ suis 2 ^’dicto Johanni Banastur hered’ suis vel assignatis libere, quiete et in pace de capital’ domno. feodi illius per servitia debita in perpetuum ; et ego p’ diet us Johnes Bygrave et heredes mei p’ dictum cottagium et seliones in per- petuuni Jolini Banastur et heredibus suis warranti- zabimus. In cujus rei testimonium sigillum meum apposui. His testibus Joline le Klerkeson de Colton, Johne Clerk de Colton, Johne de Newlond, Johne Wymare et aliis. Datum apud Newlond juxta Colton in festo Sancti Bartliolomei apostoli, anno regni regis Henrici quarti decimo. Ingestre Deed, 12 H. 4 (1411 a.d.) Sciant p. et f’ quod ego Johannes Banastur manens in Colton dedi, concessi, et hac p’senti carta mea confirmavi Thome Gresley militi dno de Colton unum cotagium et duodecim seliones terre arrabilis cum pertinentiis in le Newlond, que quondam fuerunt Willmi Stretton, quarum quinque seliones cum una forera simvl jacent in campo vocato Huggefeld (10) extendentes super p’dictum cottagium ad finem australem, et ad alteram finem buttantes super le Blakelake^ et due seliones terre jacent in eodem campo inter terram quondam Rogeri Grace ex utraque parte, et quatuor seliones terre simul jacent in Waggestersfeld (30) inter terram Dmni dictam Stenenfeld, et terram quam Wins, de New- lond, nuper tenuit de Wmo. Londesdale. Habend’ et tenend’ p’ dictum cotagium et duodecim seliones cum suis pertinentiis p’fato Thome heredibus et AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 361 assignatis suis capitalibus Dmns feodi illius per servitia inde debita et de jure consueta, libere quiete et in pace in perpetuum. Et ego vero Johnes et heredes mei p’dictmn cottagium, &c., p’fato Thome heredibus et assignatis contra omnes gentes warrantizabimus et in perpetuum defendimus. In cujus rei testimon’ Imic p’senti carte mee sigillum meum apj^osui. His testibus, Jolianne de Colwyche, Johanne de Russliebury persona ecclesie de Colton, Henrico del Bottery de Bromley Abbis, et aliis. Datum apud Colton die martis prox’ post festum Sancti Valentini confessoris, anno regni regis Henrici Quarti post conquestum duo decimo. (387.) Gresley Deed, 1409-10 a.d. (11 Hen. 4). Grant by Thomas de Langley, Bishop of Durham, Philip de Repyngton, Bishop of Lincoln, Thomas Maureward Kt., Robert Waterton, Piers de Melburne, Nicholas Bradschawe, Robert Twiford, Richard de Burton, and Richard de Hilton, to John Gresley, son and heir of Thomas de Gresley Kt., and Elizabeth daughter of Thomas Clarell, of an annual rent of 20 marcs, arising from Colton Manor, for their life. DaP Colton (11 Hen. 4). (French deed.) Blithfield Deed (1418 a.d.) 5 Hen. 5. Richard de Truwe, grants to John Bagod, Kt., and his heirs, all claim and right in one messuage,- one acre of land, and one acre of meadow in Colton, which formerly belonged to John Smyth, and which John Bagot, aforesaid, holds of the gift and 362 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON feofi'inont of Ricliard de Betteley, rector of Blith- field, and Joliii Glerksoii. His test. John Clerk, Ricliard Griffyn, John Wogan, and others. Done at Colton, on the Monday next liefore the feast of 8t. Cedde, 5 Hen. o. Blithfield Deed (1418 a.d.j 5 Hen. 5. Deed of gift to Sir John Bagot from Richard de Betteley and John Clerkson of this same land, &c., in Colton, described as lying between a messuage of Thomas de Gresley and one formerly 1)elonging to Roger del Priours and the one acre of land lies in the Croftes, and abuts on the messuage, afore- said, and the one acre of meadow lies in the Sleet- ing. Witnesses — John Clerk, John Geoffrey, R. Griffyn, and others, 5 Hen. 5. Blithfield Deed, 9 Hen. 5. (1422 a.d.) William Ady shale, of Colton, gives to Richard Betteley, rector of Blithfeld, Thomas Hanley, of Lichfield, chaplain, and John Wijyan^ of Colton, all my lands, &c., in the vill, and fields of Colton and Blithfeld. To hold for ever by the usual service. Witnesses — John Clerkeson, Win. Stykebok, John Makworth, Win. Hereforde, Nicholas Clerke, and others. Done at Colton, die hme prox post fest’ St. Jolnis ante portam Latinam,” 9 Hen. 5. i494.) Gkesley Deed, 9 Hen. 5 (1422 a.d.) Noverint universi per presentes me Johannem de Colton, alias dictum Johannem del’ Hull,” maiien- tem in Drakelowe, in com’ Derb’, remisisse. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 863 relaxasse, et omnino pro me, et lierecl’ meis, in perpetiium quietum clamasse Thome Gresley, militi, domino de Drakelowe, liered’, et assignatis ipsius Thome, totimi jus memn (‘t clameimi que unqiiam liabui . . . futuro habere ]jotero, in omnibus tends, et tenementis, redditibus, et })Ossessionibiis, &c. . . . successione hereditaria post mortem Roberti del Hull, patris mei, in villa, et territ(udo, ae feodo, de Colton, in com’ Statt’. Ita quod nee ego, predictus Johannes nee heredes mei, ant aliquis alius nomine nostro, aliquam actionem juris, vel clamei, in })’dictis tends, &c., de cetero exigere, sen vindicare pijterimus in futuro. Sed ab onini actione juris, et clamei, inde sumus exclusi in perpetuum per })resentes : et Ego (warranty and seal) &c. Hiis testibus, Johanne Gresleye milite, Johanne Clerk- son de Colton, Radulpho Wolseley de Wolseley, Johanne Colewiche, Radulpho Aleyn de Huxsdon, et aliis ; Dat’ apud Colton predictam, die veneris prox’ post festum Scti Gregorii Pape, anno regni R. Henrici quinti post conquestum Anglie nono. (9 Hen. 5.) Blithfield Deed, 9 Hen. 6 (1431 a.d.) Tliomas Perkyn, rector of Blithfeld, and John Wolaston, chaplain, give to Ralph Broke and Agnes, his wife, all those lands, tenements, &c., which they had received from Ralph in the fees of Colton, Blithfeld, Newton, and Bromley Bagot, to have and to hold for ever of the chief lords of those fees by the usual service. Witnesses — Hugh White, Hunqdirey Clerkson, Henry Chambers, and (Jliers, 364 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Done at Admaston, die .Jovis prox ante fest’ Easter 9 Hen. 6. (No. 425.) Gtresley Deed, 26 Hen. 6 (1448 a.d.) ‘‘This is the appoyntinentez betwyx John Gresley, Squier, son and heire of John Gresley, knyght, u})pon the on(e) partie, and Dam(e) Marget, sumtyme wytf to the seid John Gresley, kt., upon the t’other partie ; That is to say, that those persones that are enfeffed in the maners of Colton, and Kyngestone, in the counte of Stafford, to the use of the same Dam(e) Marget, shall be (by) thaire dede endented make a lese of all the seide tenementez to the seide John Gresley, Squier. . . . terme of xxx. yere next following the dat(e) of these presentes. Yeldyng therefore yerely to the said feffeez xv£ in the mynster of Seynt Mary of Coventre, at the festes of Seynt Philip and Jacobe, apostles, and of Seynt Martyn in wyntour, by even porcions ; forseen allway that yff the seide John Gresley squier, or ells the seide Dam(e) Marget digh (die) within the seide terme, then this seide lese and terme be determynt and fynyshed. Forsen also that the seide feffes within the seide term shall not distrayne for the said rent, ner for no parte thereof beyng by hynde ; also that every day when the seide Dani(e) Marget, or the seide feffees recey ve any of the paymentes afore- seide, then they shall deliver for all siche paymentes by them or by any of them recey vet, acquittance thereof in like forme to these words that here followen. Noverint universi per presentes nos Margaretam nuper uxorem Johannis de Gresley AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 365 militis, jam defuncti, Humfridum Blount, et Jacobum de Hopwod, recepisse et habuisse die confectionis presenciiim de Jobanne Gresley armigero, sex li. sterlingorum de redditu nostro ])ro termino festi Sanctorum Philippi et Jacobi jam instante, pro maneriis de Colton et Kvngeston, eidem Johanni et aliis per nos ad tirmam nuper dimissis, de quibus quidem xx. li. fatemur nos foi’e pacatos, dictumque Johannem Gresley inde esse quietum per presentes sigillis nostris signatas. Dat’ prime die Maii, anno regni Regis Henrici sexti xxvii.” and in like forme for every other day of payment then followyng shall be made other acquittancez for those termes in like forme : In witness whereof aither of the seide parties, en chargeable to these presentes, have sette thaire seales. Given ye first day of Marche in the xxvi. year of the regne of King Harry, the sext.’’ (26 Hen. 6). (436.) Gresley Deed, 36 Hen. 6 (1458 a.d.) Sciant p., et f., quod Ego Johannes Gresley miles, dominus de Colton, dedi, concessi, &c., Ricardo Wygan de Colton, imam placeam terre in Colton predicto, quondam in tenura Johannis Parker, jacentem inter terrain meam ex una parte, et terram Thome Dymok ex altera parte, et latat (?) in longi- tudine versus altam viam ad unum capud, et aliud capud latat super terram })redicti Thome Dymok, et continet in longitudine versus terram meam octoginto duos pedes, et ex altera parte continet in longitudine sexaginta novem pedes, et in latitudine versus terram predicti Thome Dymok continet quinquaginta 366 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON qiiinque pedos, ot in latitudine versus altam viam continet sexaginta duo ])edes. Habend’ et tenend’ predict’ placeam terre, cum omnibus suis pertinentiis |)refato Ricardo et lieredil)us, et assignatis suis de mv et lieredi))us meis in perpetuuni. Reddendo inde annua tim mihi et lieredibus meis tres catapultas broad arrows;” v. Gresley Charters; Jeayes), ad festum Pasclie tantum pro omni servicio seculari. consuetudine, exactione, et demanda ; Et ego vero (usual warranty and seal). Hiis testibus, Jolianne Belton de Colton, Willelmo Wheston de eadem Whio. Botaler de eadem, et multis, aliis ; Dat apud Colton predictum, quarto die mensis maii, anno regni Regis Henrici sexti post conquestum Anglie tricesimo sexto (1458 a.d.) (large seal of Gresley arms, much inj ured). Blithfeld Deed (1459 a.d.), 37 Hen. 6. I Richard Bagot, Armg, liave given and granted 1 )y this my deed to J ohn Bagot and Isabella his wife my manors of Kylbye* and Colton, in Staffs — with all their full rights — which manors Beatrix, who was the wife of Sir John Bagot, Kt., and my mother, held in her doAvry after the death of Sir John Bagot my father. To have and to hold to the aforesaid John and Isabella for the lifetime of Isabella, of the chi('f lords of the fees, by the wonted services — and after Isabella’s death, I will that those manors remain to J(dni Bag»>t and the heirs of his body by * Kylby was the small manor of “ Blithbury Bank” (Mavesyn Bui ware parish), named after Sir Wm. Kileby, who married the heiress (v. Shaw). AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 867 Isabella, and if lie die without heirs by her then to John Bagot’s (next) heir and assign, for ever. And know that 1 Richard Bagot liave made and consti- tuted inv well beloved Jolin Pullesdon and Wm. Chace mv attornies to deliver to Jolm Bagot and rsa1)ella seisin and full ])ossession of the af(n*esaid manors. (signed as usual) these witnesses John Greslev Kt., John Cotton Armg, Thomas Newlonde, Thomas Shene, John Osmonderlowe and others — Janrv 10. 37 Hen. 6. A Blithfield Deed 87 Hen. 6 (1459 a.d.) Another deed of same day and A^ear (Jan. 10. 87 Hen. 6) by which John Bagot arnig, and Isabella nominate Richard Griff en and John Clerk as their attorneys to receive Colton and Kylbye manors from Richard Bagot. (No. 449.) Gresley Deed, 21 Ed. 4. (1481 a.d.) Sciant p., et f., quod nos Magister Willehnus Gresley, rector ecclesie de Stoke, et Ricardus Gresley, tradidinius et dimissimus Johanni Gresley militi, et Anne uxori ejus, manerium de Colton, in comitatu Staff ordie, cum omnil)us suis pertinentiis, et omnia alia, terras et tenementa, redditus et servicia, cum omnibus suis pertinenciis in Colton predicto, que nuper habiiimus ex dono et feofmento p’dicti Johannis Gresley, militis ; Habend’ et tenend’ prefato Johanni Gresley, militi, et Anne uxori ejus, et heredibus, et assignatis suis, in ]ierpetuum, de ' capitaliljus dominis feodi illius ])(n* servicia imh' debita et de jure consueta ; In cujus rei test’, &c. 368 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON (usual Avarranty and seals). Hiis testibus, Ricardo Bagott de Blyffeld, armigero, Jolianne Bagott filio suo, Johanne Egerton, armigero, Johanne Cawarden de MaA^esyn RidAvare, armigero, Ricardo Norman de la Boulde, Ricardo Wygan de Colton, et aliis ; Dat’ apud Colton, die martis proxiina post festum ascen- scionis Domini, anno regni Regis EdAvardi quarti, vicesimo primo (1481 a.d.). (455.) Gresley Deed, 7 Hen. 7 (1492 a.d.). Sciant p., et f., quod ego Ludovicus Bagot, armi- ger, dedi &c. et p. carta indentata liberavi Thome Gresley, militi, quatuor acras terre arabilis jacentes infra feodum de Colton, in quadam clausura vocata “ llcmlhurste^'^ modo inclusa infra Novum parcum ibidem; cum omnibus suis pertinentiis; Remisi eciam et relaxaAU de me et heredibus meis eidem Thome, heredibus et assignatis suis, in perpetuum to turn jus meum, statimi, titulum et possessionem que habeo, habui, sen quovis modo in futuro habere* de aut in omnibus aliis, terris, pratis, et pasturis, modo inclusis infra Novum parcum predictum, ac in le Barremore et le Moreheys^’’^ consimili modo inclusis, ita quod idem Thomas Gresley, et heredes sui, dicta, terras, prata, et cetera premissa, cum suis pertinenciis decetero possint in seperalitate tenere, includere, et imparcare, pro me, et heredibus meis in perpetuum. Hcec omnia dedi et concessi in excambio pro quinque acris terre jacentibus in tribus clausuris in Admas- toii, Aa)cat’ le ‘‘Ley,” modo in teniira Thome Smyth, * A word is w.anting here — probably “ potero.” AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 369 simul cum seperalitate earundem, simul cum quodam annuali redditu trium solidorum, eidem Thome exeimcium de messuagio in tenura ejusdem Thome Smytli. Habenda, et tenenda omnia, predicta, terras et pasturas, cum moris predictis et ceteris jiremissis, cum seperalitate eorundem prefato Thome Giresley her’ et assignatis suis, in perpetuum, in excambio ut premittitur de capitalibus dominis feodi illius per servicia inde debita, et de jure consueta. Et ego vero, Ludovicus predictus (usual warranty and seal). Hiis testibus, Ricardo Norman, Ricardo Gresley, Johanne Blount, gentilmen, Johanne Ball, clerico, Thoma Smyth, gentmn., et multis aliis. Dat’ quin to decimo die Februarii, anno regni Regis Henrici sejitimi p. c. septimo (7 Hen. 7) (Red seal — a bird). Ingestke Deed, 29 Hen. 8 (1538 a.d.) Thomas Bagott Esqre, in fulfilment of an inden- ture made the previous year (1537) with Sir Edward Aston Kt. conveys to Richard Lyttleton and Thomas Moreton, gentlemen, all his lands tenements rents, &c. in Colton, now held by Richard Shepherd, Thomas Gorst, William Bran, and William Buttcler^'^ and also all the rents and services of Sir George Gresley Kt. Roger Geoffrey, John Clerkeson, John Clerk, Richard Rmnell^^ Richard Robotham, Thomas Hande (?) and Thomas Wyggen — for their lands and holdings in Colton — (the deed then goes on to con- vey all Thomas Bagott’ s lands in Blithbury, Blyth- fyld, Bagott’s Bromley, &c., to the same Richard ^ Meiubers of these families left two small charities to Colton. 370 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Lyttleton and Thomas Moreton ; and is signed at Blytlifyld. (29 Henry 8,) Ingestre Deed. a.d. 1538. (Latin) 30 Hen. 8. Henry Ward Clerk and Thomas Gylbert announce that they have given to Sir George Gresley Kt. all that tenement and messuage in Colton commonly called the ^ Newlodge ’ now held by Peter Wood- ward ; and one pasture, or piece of ground in the land called the new land in Colton Park, which stretches from the pales (palatia) called ^Netted Pale’ along the ditch of a wood called ‘Ashleyhay,’ to a certain meadow called Harpit ? then to another pasture or more, called the Mare Park,’ or ‘ Barre Moor ;’ also one meadow called ^ Harpe Meadow ’ and one enclosure between Harpe meadow and Cald- well spring, and also one pasture called Caldwell Spring ’t with all its appurtenances — to Sir John Gresley for his life ; remainder to Elizabeth, one of his daughters. • (481). Gresley Deed, 2 & 3 Philip & Mary (1555 a.d.) Quit claim by Edward Wynter Esquire and Katherine his wife, d. of George Gresley, Kt., deceased, to William Gresley Kt., son and heir of Sir George, in consideration of 400 marcs, and in fulfilment of an award of John, late Duke of Nortli- umberland (by name of John, Earl of AYarwick), and Lord William Pagett of Beaudesert, k.g., of all those lands &c. in Okethorpe, Donisthorpe, and Lynton (co. Derb.), of one pasture, or meadow. *No. 177 (on plan). t No. 176. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 371 called the Olde-land^'^'^ and another called the Ley- closse^^'’ in Colton (co. Staffs.). The said lands having been acquired by the above-named Greorge Grresley, kt. by feofment of Henry Ward, chaplain, and Thomas Gylbert, in trust, for the said Katherine for a term of years not yet expired on Oct. 20, 29 Hen. 8 (1537 A.D.) Dat’ 29 Sept. 2 and 3 Philip and Mary (1555 A.D.) Ingestre Deed (1575 a.d.) 17 Eliz. Indenture made Jan. 19 — 17 queen Eliz — between Sir Walter Aston and Richard Hatton of Tixall yeoman by which Sir W. Aston, in consideration of the sum of £3 now paid him, lets to Richard Hatton ‘ Birchen Hayes ’ in Admaston, and also a piece of ground lying between ^Steven Wood’ and Admaston field and also one other small piece of ground called Aston croft’ or Asheton Leys’ ffying within Colton field and adjoining to Steven wood aforesaid’ now in the holding of the said Richard Hatton — For a yearly rent of 13s. 4d. — 1575 a.d. Ingestre Deed (1598 a.d.) 40 Eliz Indenture of 26th October 40th of queen Elizabeth 1598 A.D. made between Thomas Giresley of Drake- lowe Esqre on the one part, and Robert Smythe and Richard Beardall of Colton on the other part — whereby Thomas Giresley in consideration of the sum of £40 hath demised and to farm lett to R. Smyth and R. Beardull, their heirs executors and assigns. * Called previously “ Astelmscrofty The property of Cradock, of Admaston, and within the held of Homeley. 372 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON all that several close or pasture called the ^ Newe close ’ in Colton for 21 years at 20s. yearly rent. Signed in the ^ Arthur Gresley presence of f and Thomas Royle. Ingestre Deed (a.d. 1607) 4 James 1. This indenture made the 4th day of Dechr. in the year of the reign of our sovereign Lord James hv the Grace of God of England Scotland France and Ireland King — Defender of the faith &c — that is to say of England the 4th year and of Scotland the 40th year — Between George Gresley of Colton Lodge in the county of Stafford Esqre on the one part, and Erasmus Laundor of Rugeley in the said county of Stafford mercer, of the other part, witnesseth that the said George Gresley, for and in consideration of a certayne sum of money to him well and truly con- tented and paid, before the sealing and delivery of these presents, by the said Erasmus Laundor, and for divers other good considerations him at this present specially moving. He, the said George Gresley had demysed, graunted, sett and to farme lett, and by these presents doth demise graunt sett and to farme lett unto the said Erasmus Laundor, his heirs, executors, and assigns, all that close of land or pasture commonly called the Newe Leasowe with the appurtenances thereof lying and being within the Lordship of Colton in the said county of Stafford — adj oyning or lying nere the highway leading from Rugeley aforesaid towarde Colton, and now in the tenure and occupation of the said George Gresley, or AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 873 of his assigns or assignees, to have & to hold the said close of land or pasture with the appurtenances unto the said Erasmus Laundor his executors & assigns from the feast of the Annunciation of our blessed lady next ensuing the date hereof &c., &c., yielding and paying unto the said George Gresley his heirs and assigns live pounds of lawful money of England half yearly, at the feast of the Anunciation of our Lady & at the feast of St. Michael the arch-angel &c. signed Erasmus Laundor In presence | Christopher Hunt of I & 2 others. Ingestre Deed (a.d. 1608). 5 James 1. Indenture made 5th year of King James I. where- by George Gresley of Colton Esqre., lets, in consid- eration of the sum of threescore pounds (£60) to Anthony Wright of Morton, all that pasture com- monly known as Roger ‘ Hayes ’ meadow in the parish of Colton for a 20 years’ lease receiving a yearly rent of 48s. 4d. payable at Lady and Mchms in equal portions — Ingestre (a.d. 1610) 7 James 1. Indenture made Octbr. 9th in the 7th year of King James reign over England — witnesseth that whereas Sir Walter Aston Kt. hath of late purchased of Sir Thomas Gresley of Drakelowe & of George Gresley Esqre, son and heir apjoarent of the said Sir Thomas, his manour of Colton — of which a certain messuage, tenement, & lands in Blithbury — now in possession of Thomas Tooth forms part — & whereas Sir 374 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Walter Aston wishes to have a common recovery witli double or trelde voucher to cut off all remain- ders, which cannot be done unless Thomas Tooth first surrender all his ri^*hts in the said property. Therefore Thomas Tooth undertakes to make the surrender to Sir Walter Aston Kt. provided that he the said Sir Walter Aston pay to Thomas Tooth by Easter 1611 a.d. the sum of £1,000 in the church porch of the church of Colton. Ingestre (a.d. 1611), 8 James 1. Indenture made April 2nd in the 8th year of King James 1st reign over England, and 43rd over Scot- land, between Sir Walter Aston of Tixall Kt. on the one part and George Gresley Esqre, son and heir of Sir Thomas Gresley of Drakelowe Kt on the other part, witnesseth that Sir Walter Aston lets to George Gresley Esqre all that close pasture wood or woody ground, lying and being in the Lordship and parish of Coulton, called or known by the name of the ^ Hurst wood ’ — now or late in the holding of the said George Gresley — for 21 years next ensuing by the rent of £20. 4s. 8d. Signed by George Gresley In the presence j m , L 1 homas Astone of ) N.B. — Only a portion of the seal (a very fine one) remains, but it bears unmistakeably the arms of Gresley quarterly with those of De Wasteneys. Colton Mill — Ingestre Deed (a.d. 1617 ). This indenture made the lOth day of October in AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 375 the Raigne of our Soveraign Lorde James, by the grace of Grod of England, Scotland, France and Ireland, kinge, defender of the faith &c., — that is to sav of England France & Ireland the 15th, and of Scotland the 5 1st; Between Sir Walter Aston of Tixall, in the countie of Stafford Kt., and Barronett, and Dame Gartrude his wife, on the one part, and Richard Ruggeley* of Hawkesyardet in the said countie of Stafford Esqre, & Mary his wife on the other part, ^ Whereas the said Sir Walter Aston standeth seased in his demeasne as of fee of & in the manner of Colton, in the foresaid countie of Stafford, with the rightes, members and appurten- ances thereof within the said manor thereto & tyme out of mynde;|; hath been a watercourse mill standing upon a watercourse drawn from the river of Trente, whicli said watercourse hath also tyme out of mynde been of right belonging to the said mill, and here- with used & occupyed : But in regard there came not at all tynies sufficient water to the said mill they whose estate the said Sir Walter Aston hath in the said manor and mill, have of late tymes, under the title of the ancestors of the said Marie errected a weare or dame on the said river of Trente, and in respect that the said river, and the soyle underneath * The Ruggeleys and others had previous suits about Colton Mill— V. Pleas 9 Ed. 2, 1316-25 and 26 Ed. 3, (fee. t The “ Hawkesyarde ” here mentioned did not stand where the present Hawkesyarde was built — but on the north side of the road between Rugeley and Armitage. I Domesday Survey. 376 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON the same, both above & below & in the place where the same dame standeth, was the inheritance of the ancestors of the said Marie, and now is the inhent- ance of the said Marie, which said weare or dame was there first placed, and hath ever since been con- tinued by the permission and under the tytle of the said Richard Ruggeley & Marie his wife, and of the ancestors of the said Marie — Now this indenture witnesseth that they, the said Richard Ruggeley and Marie his wife, for and in consideration of the rente and covenante in these presents specified and reserved and of the grants hereafter ensuing, have demysed set & to farme lett & by these presents do demyse sett & to farm lett unto the said Sir Walter Aston and dame Gartrude his wife and their assigns, the aforesaid weare or dame, and the playce & soyle whereupon the same standeth. And do also for them & either of them, their & either of their heires give & o^rant to the said Sir W alter Aston & Dame Gartrude his wife & their assigns, free license, libertie and authoritie for them and their assigns, & his and their Avorkmen and servaunts to come and goe to and from the said weare or dame in, uppon and through the ru^er of Trente, with boat or otherwise, to repaire or amende the said weare or dame. To have A to hold the aforesaid weare or dame the place & soyle AAdiere- upon the same standeth — and also the free libertie, license & authoritie to repaire & amend the same, as aforesaid, unto the said Sir Walter Aston and dame Gartrude his wife, their executors, administra- tors & assigns, from the date of these presents for & AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 377 durino; the terme of one & twentie years, from thence next ensuing & fully to be compleate & ended, ycaldinge and pavinge therefor yearly at the feast of St. Michael the arch-angell during the said terme unto the said Richard Ruggely & Marie his wife, & the heirs of the said Marie, the yearly rente or summe of sixpence of lawful English money — and the said R. Ruggeley & Marie his wife and either of them &c., do covenante and grante to & with the said Sir W. Aston & dame Gartrude his wife that they & their assigns may have hold & enjoy the foresaid premises by these presents graunted without the lawfull lett, trouble or interruption of either of them the said Richard Ruggeley & Marie or of an}' other person or ])ersons lawfully clayming by from or under them or any of them. In consideration of which saide graunt & demyse, they the said Sir W. Aston and dame Gartrude his wife, for them & their heirs doe give and graunt to the said Richard Ruggeley & Marie his wife, & their assigns, to his her & their hshermen & servaunts free libertie to come into the south part of the said mill, commonly used for a stable, with his & their leapes Teneyes and other engines for the taking of Ffish, and to set & place the same in the fludgates and skutgates (shutgates ?) of the said mill & to the saide mill belonging, in the times of fludde or any other tyme or tymes, as shall not be hurtfull or prejudicial to the gryndyng of the said mill. And the said Sir W. Aston and Dame Gartrude his wife — for them and their heirs, do demyse, graunt, and to farm lett unto 378 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON tlie said Richard Rii^^eley and Mane his wife, their executors and assigns, the scale (sole, and absolute fittinge of the said fiuddgate and skutgates, and all the fish there to l)e taken, to have and to hold to them the said Richard and Marie, their heirs &c., from tlie date of these presents for and during the terme of twentie one } eares — and Sir W. Aston and Gartrude his wife shall not cause or procure, or willingly assent unto that any fhsh shall be taken at Colton Mill, except by the said R. Ruggeley and Marie his wife, and by their servaunts and fisher- men. In witness whereof the parties abovesaid to these present indentures alternately and interchange- ably have putt to their hands and seals the day and yeare above written. 1617 a.d. Ingestke Deed (1644 a.d.) 19 Ch. 1. Indenture made in the 19th year of King Charles 1st, between the Rt. Honble. Walter Lord Aston of Forfar on the one part, and Herbert Aston of Coulton on the other part, that Walter Lord Aston in consideration of the full and just sum of £250, paid to him by the said Herbert Aston, doth give and graunt unto the said Herbert Aston a rent charge of £20 yearly out of the Huld wood [old wood ?) and Hurst wood, being parts of the manor of Coulton — the said annuity or rent charge to be paid half-yearly by equal portions, at Xmas term £10 — and at the feast of St. John the Baj^tist £10, and if not paid within fourteen days of its falling due at any time, it shall be lawful for Herbert Aston AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 379 or his heirs &c. to enter upon the said Huld {i,e.^ old) and Hurst woods and distrain for the amount due — Provided always that if Lord Aston repays the £250 with all arrears then this rent charge shall cease — 1 Thomas Aston Si<,n.od in the Thimell)y piesence of j N.B. — The parchment has been much damaged apparently by fire. Ingestre Deed (a.d. 1645), 20 Ch. 1. Indenture made July 9th, 20th year of King Charles I. Between the Rt. Honble. Walter (2nd) Lord Aston and Gertrude Aston his sister — witncsseth that Lord Aston is engaged to the said Gertrude Aston for £500. — one jewell with many stones of dyamonds therein contayned, esteemed worth about the sum of £1,500 of lawful money, formerly given to Lord Aston their father by Philip 4th, King of Spain e, at the time the said Lord Aston the father came from the said king of Spain, being sent thither as ambassador out of England from our Sovereign Lord Charles the Kinges majesty that now is over Phigland — it was delivered unto the said Gertrude Aston — now for that the said Gertrude Aston is con- tented to re-deliver unto the said Lord Aston her brother the said jewell, to the end that he may make his best advantage thereof — and also for the securing of the said sum of £500 to be well and truly paid to the said Gertrude his sister by her brother Lord Aston — according to the intent and meaning of Lord 880 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Aston their father, deceased — He, the said Walter Lord Aston party to these presents, for the consid- eration aforesaid and for divers otlier o’ood considera- tions him moving. Hath and does demyse and lett &c. to the said Gertrude Aston all that Hanoi- or Lordshij) of Colton in Staffs with all its rights including the advowson and ])atronage of the Church of Colton, services, Courte Leet and Court Baron, perquisites of Court &c. to have and to hold to her Gertrude Aston, from and immediately after the decease of the Rt. Honble. Gertrude Lady Aston, mother of the said Lord Aston and of Gertrude Aston, for the full term of 99 years. Provided always that if Lord Aston pay to Gertrude his sister on or before the feast of St. ddionias the Apostle (whith Kalbe ?) in the year of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, according to the computation of the Church of England 1645 a.d. — at or in the Cathedrall Church of Lichfield £500 — or if, in default of payment he there and then give up the jewell with dyamonds to her — then this demise and agreement shall cease and be void — Failing such payment Gertrude Aston is fully to enjoy possession of Colton for 99 years. (1651 A.D.) Indenture whereby Lord Aston’s trustees Benjamin Weston, Herbert Aston, Sir Win. Persall and Robert Robotham of Grey’s Inn, towards making payment for Lord Aston’s debts, sell to Thomas Barwicke of Admaston all that close called ^^FfowelP containing * Ffowell, modern Full well,” No. 661, tfec. (on plan). AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 381 6 acres or thereabouts in Colton, lately in the tenure of George Wright, joining on the north Sir Hervey Bagot’s land, and on the south east the land of Sampson Boughey gentleman, and on the west and south the land of Ralphe Bate and Humphrey Webb, and also sell to him all that pasture known as * Hunger Hill in Colton containing 2 acres lately held by the said George Wright — adjoining the lands of Walter Fowler Esqre on the south and the lands of Ralphe Bate on the north — and further they sell him all that piece of land lying in Wilderley field in the lordship of Colton, lately held by Sampson Brett, adjoining the land of the aforesaid R. Bate — and further they sell him one other piece of land about half an acre, formerly belonging to a tenement late in the hands of Widow Smith of Newland deceased, lying on the west side of a close of Sir Hervey Bagott, called or known by the name ‘ Upper Sych’f heretofore taken forth of HamleyJ field in the lord- ship of Blythfeld. Ingestre Deed (a.d. 1654). This Indenture between the Rt. Honble. Gertrude Lady Aston of Coulton Hall in the County of Stafford widow, the Rt. Honble. Walter Lord Aston Baron of Forfar, Benjamin Weston, of Ashley House, in Surrey, Esfp\, Herbert Aston of Coulton, William * Hanger or Honger — “ a hill ” — if this is the true derivation, then Hunger hill is as unnecessary as Hurst wood (No. 645). 1 Rushisyche ? Sych = rivulet. t Harydey held in the lordship'^ of Blithfield , — this strengthens the identification of “ Astelmscroft/’ 382 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Persall of Cannall Kt. and Robert Robotham of Gray’s Inn Esqre on the one ])art and Cliristojdier Prescott of Coulton Hall aforesaid yeoman, servant to the said Lady Aston, and Anne liis wife on the other part — Witnesses that Lady Aston and the aforesaid live persons in consideration of £30 })aid to Walter Lord Aston by Christopher Prescott and his wife, have demised, granted, sett and to fann let to Christopher and Anne two cottages and all those enclosed grounds called. Park leasowe. Marsh leasowe, filley croft and Stockwell Heath, with a day’s work of land in Saintaffe, now or late in the tenure of one Raphael Hunt, and situated in Coulton — to have and to hold after Raphael Hunt’s death for four score and nineteen years if they shall live so long for a yearly rent of 20s. — and at the death of the survivor of the said Ch. Prescott and Anne his wife, 40s. shall be paid in the name of a heriot, — and Christopher and Anne bind themselves to appear at all and every court which shall be holden for and within the manor of Coulton, and to grind all their corn and malt* at the mills of Gertrude Lady Aston. (Signed by Christopher Prescott and Anne Prescott). Ingestre Deed (a.d. 1659). Indenture made 3 1st day of October in the year of our Lord God 1659, between Charles Stanley of Honnesworth, Staffs, gentleman on the one part, and Herbert Aston of Bellamore in the parish of Coulton * The obligation had continued in force {v. dispute between the Wasteneys and others). AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 383 on the other })art. Witnesseth, and that the said Charles Stanley for and in consideration of the rent of £30 yearly, hath demysed and lett to Herbert Aston all those closes and parcells of land meadow and ])astiire in Colton and Colwich* or either of them that is to say f Birchen Close, Cawdwell Spring, Martlyn and 8 acres at the upper end of the 21 acre Park, as it is now parted from the rest with a payle, belonging to the demesne of Colton — and also all ways, waters, rights easements, liberties, &c., to them belonging and also all the tithes of the said Charles Stanley of corn grain and hay arising from these lands or any of them which the said Charles Stanley * Within the boundaries of Colton parish (or Constablewick) there are 90 acres 2 roods 14 perches, belonging to the ancient episcopal manor of Gt. Haywood, from which manor, by arrange- ment made subsequent to Domesday Survey, the present parish of Colwich was formed, taking that name because the church stood in Colwicli ; although as late as Henry Sth’s time f Haywood, and even Shugboro’, were far more populous. These small frag- ments of an adjoining estate, scattered here and there in Colton, were originally, we conclude, occupied by stragglers who migrated from their homes, while still retaining their clanship and connec- tion with the parent stem. Thus, when the lands of a single family, or those held under one lord (the Bishop, in the present instance) became a manor, members of the more populous or powerful manor would be found beyond their original border — just as portions of counties are found to have crossed the border of another’s territory, while jealously retaining their ancient ties. — vide “ Muster Rolls,” temp. H, 8, f Record Office, t “Birchen Close,” No. 172 (on plan). The order of the fields here confirms the statement that the “Springs,” and “Caldwell Spring” are identical. 384 80ME ACCOUNT OF COLTON lately purchased for ever of tlie Rt. Honble. Walter Lord Aston, Richard Ragot of Blithtield and William Farmer of the Borough of Stafford. — The rent to be paid on Novbr 1st and April 25th. Ingestre Deed (a.d. 1660). Indenture of May 2()th (12 Charles 2nd). Between I^ord Aston and George Wright of Coulton whereby Lord Aston lets to George Wright the ground called the ^ Hurst Wood’ or ‘Coulton Hadley’ — belonging to the demesne of the manor of Coidton^ and now held by G. Wright aforesaid — estimated at 24 acres — on an 18 years lease, and for a rent of £16 a year. Herbert Aston is one of the witnesses. Ingestre Deed (a.d. 1660). Indenture of July 4. 12 Charles 2. between Walter Lord Aston and the Honble Herbert Aston his brother, Edward Bagott son and heir of Sir Hervey Bagott, Walter Chetwvnde the vounger son and heir apparent of Walter Chetwynde of Grendon in War- wickshire, Richard Bagott brother of Sir Hervey, &c., of the one part, and the said Sir Hervey Bagott of the other part, witnesseth tliat for the securing of a sum of inonc}^, for a certain number of years here- after mentioned, and in consideration of a sum lent by Sir H. Bagott to the said Lord Aston and Herbert Aston, and of a nominal sum of 5 shillings to the * This proves the situation of the Wastineys demesne land, and that it included the “ Hurst Wood.” AND OF THE I)E WASTENEYS FAMII.Y. 38e5 other persons above mentioned have sold to Sir H. Bagott all that land meadow and pasture known as the ^ Hurst Wood ’ in Coulton now or late in the tenure or occupation of George Wright, to have and to hold for the teian of 99 years. Provided never- theless that if the said Herbert Aston or his heirs shall well and truly pay to Sir H. Bagott the yearly sum of £12 for the next 69 years — if Humphrey Webb and William Webb, sons of Humphrey Webb of Colton, or either of them, shall so long live — and during the life of the survivor of them, &c. The said payments to be made at Blithfield. Indorsed, Demise of Hurstwood from Lord Aston and Herbt. Aston to Sir H. Bagott for payment of £12 yearly by Herbert Aston — during the lives of Humphrey and Wm. Webb.” Ingestre Deed (a.d. 1679). Indenture made 23rd of March 31 Charles 2nd. between William Chetwynd of Rugeley and Herbert Aston of Coulton — Avitnesseth that William Chetwynd lets to Herbert Aston all that parcell of meadow in ‘ Mare Park,’ which lyeth next to Rugeley, contain- ing by estimation 10 acres or thereabouts, with all rights thereto belonging — from Febry. 2nd last past, for a rent of £9 to be paid at the two usual feasts. Signed by AVm. Chetwynd. John Collier, In the presence ( John Pollett, of i Humphrey Webb, / Frank Doody. 886 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON Ingestre Deed (a.d. 1695). 7 Wm. 8. Noverint universi et presentes nos Johem Aston de Colton in com’ Staffordioe armigemm’ et Herbertum Aston de Colton in com’ predict generos’, teneri et firmiter obligari Johni Wiggin de eadem villa de Colton yeomen, in centum viginti libris bonce et legal’ mone toe Anglioe — sol vend ’eidem Johni Wiggin, aut suo cert ‘ attorn ’ executor ’administrator’ vel assignat ’suis, ad quam quidem solvendm bone et iidelit’ faciend’ obligamus nos et utrumque nostrum per se toto et in’ solido lioered’ Exec’et administra’t &c — Dat’ undecinio die Aprilis anno regni Dni nostri Willielmi Tertii, dei gratia nunc regis Angl’ &c. septimo, anno domini 1695. The condicion of this obligacion is such that if the above bounden John Aston and Herbert Aston or either of them, their heirs &c. shall and do well and truly pay to John Wiggen £60 with the laAvful interest for the same on Octbr 11th next ensuing, then this present obligacion shall be void — or other- wise it is to remain in full force. £5 p.c. to be the rate of interest. Sealed and delivered by John Aston and Herbert Aston \ John Morrell, In the presence of [ Ann Cheswyes, ) John Weston. N.B. — There are 8 receipts on the back signed by the ^mark’ of John Wiggen and Dated from 1697 to July 1704 A.D., as John Aston gradually paid off the amount due. AND OF THE DE VVASTENEYS FAMILY. 387 Ingestre Deed (a.d. 1679). This indenture made the 24th March in the 31st year of the reign of our Sovereign Ld. Charles by the grace of Grod of England, Scotland, France and Ireland king D of F &c., between Thomas Collier of Coulton in the county of Stafford Yeoman, on the one part, and Herbert Aston of Coulton aforesaid Esqre on the other part, witnesseth that the said Thomas Collier for and in consideration of the yearly rent hereafter in these presents expressed &c, hath Demised granted set and to faiTn let unto the said Herbert Aston all that close called ‘ Martlin ’ lying and being in Coulton aforesaid, which said close the said Thomas Collier holdeth of William Chetwynd of Rugeley Esqre, and all ways, waters commons profits commodoties privileges emoluments and appurtenances to the said close or any part belonging used or appertaining, or to or with the same hereto- fore let used occupied or enjoyed, and also all the tithes of corn, grain, hay, and all other tithes what- soever of him the said Thomas Collier. (a.d. 1710) Whereas the Honble. Walter Aston hath purchased in the name of Thomas Sawyer gentlem. the capitall messuage of Bellamore, and several lands tenements and hereditaments, together with the profitts of the Manor of Colton ; & whereas there are two severall annuity es charged on the said premises, or some part thereof — namely £12 for and payable to one Willm. Webb during his life, and £3 4s. 6d. payable to 388 SUiVIK ACCOIJN'I’ OF COLTON ‘ Belcher ’ widow during her life, now the said John Aston doth covenant and agree to & with the said Walter Aston, that he the said Walter shall & may retain in his hands the sum of £200, part of the purchase money for the said premises, until the death of William Webb and widow 13elcher, or the longer liver of them, for his indemnification against the two annuityes aforesaid, &c., &c. Nov. 30th, 1710. Sealed and delivered by John Aston. In the presence | Wilhn. Fowler and of ^ Henry Morrell. A.D. 1725. This Indenture made Decbr. 9. 1725 — between Rt. Honble. Walter Lord Aston & John Webb of Hamstall, Staffordshire, witnesses that Lord Aston has leased to the said John Webb all that piece of boggy or marsh ground, being part of Stockwell Heath, within the lordship and parish of Coidton, lying between the Idng’s highwa}^ leading over the said Heath on the one side and John Webbs land on the other side and estimated to contain 3 acres, &c. Colton Mustek Roll (1539 a.d.) 652 M. 20. George Smyth, constable. A ( = able-bodied). Ar. ( = Archer.) A. George Smyth, horse and harness for a man. Ar. John Smyth, horse, harness for a man. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 889 A. Richard Hoi way, horse, harness for a man, Thomas Adams, harness complete for a man. A. Richard Shepherd, harness for a man. Edmund Norton, horse, harness for a man. A. FT end’ll Aver ell, harness for a man, and a hyll. A. John Mastrer, horse, harness for a man, and a byll. Ar. Nicholas Buttler, a how and 24 arrows, a byll, and pair of splyntz. Thomas Pesche. A. Hugh Fowton, a ^estorne^ and a byll. A. William Baddeley, a jack and harness for a man. A. Thomas By water, a byll and splyntz. A. John Swinnerton, horse, harness for a man. A. Robert Atkyns, a byll. Thomas Geffra(y), a byll. A. Richard Watson, horse, harness for a man, and a byll. William Buttler, a paire of splyntz. t Ar. Thomas Buttler, a bow and 12 arrows. A. John Adams, a byll. * Written also “ Gesterne ” and “ Gesturne ” ; General Wrottesley informs me that this is not another form of Ghisarme, or two-edged battle-axe, but equivalent to Jesseraunt the “ Morte Arthur”) described by Halliwell as ‘a jacket with sleeves — covered with oblong pieces of steel, sewn on it, and over- lapping ” — he gives it as Gesteraiine. T Splynts = Gauntlets : the actual splints were, I believe, the pieces of steel on the back of the gauntlet or glove. [This muster roll should have been inserted before the Colton Chartulary, among the miscellaneous papers, but was not copied in time ; General Wrottesley has kindly corrected it.] 390 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON A. Thomas Wy^gaii, horse, harness for a man, and a byll. Robert Hoffe, a byll. Hugh Demacke ( = Dymok ?). William Balle. A. Raulfe Per ton, a byll. Roger Gefferd. A. William 'Harryson, a byll. Thomas Hande, a salet,* and a pair of splyntz. William Rente, a gesterne and a byll. George a Leys, a bow and twelve arrows. Jolm Molle. A. John Holdacars (Old-acres). A. Hugh F elipe. John Pane. A. Ciystover Bradbere, a byll. A. Roger Tawst, a byll. John Alcocke. William Butler. A. Richard Wyggan. A. James Butler. A. Roger Holdacars. John Tawsche. William Tawsche. Total 43. Before we close this history of Oolton, it may be well to insert the following scattered notices which bear upon the subject. — The ^ Pleas of 3 H. 6 (1425 A.D.) show Sir John Gresley, Kt., suing Jolm A Salet is a light helmet. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 391 8traunge, of Darley (Staifs.), yeoman, foi* breaking into his close at Colton, and taking two cows and two calves worth 40s. i m. 230 d. ). In 1430 (8 H. 6) William Arneston, appearing for the King, sued lioger ( Hode) the ‘‘ parysshe prest ” of Colton, chaplain, Roger Boweland of Drakelow, chaplain, and Thomas “ Atte Halle” of Colton, labourer, for breaking into the King’s Park at Barton (under- Needwood?) and chasing and taking his wild animals (feras). None of them appeared. (M. 459 d.) (S. H. C. vol. 17, p. 127-8). This joint expedition for poaching is little to the credit of the two priests ! esjiecially of Roger Hode, who had drawn one of his parishioners into the scrape. The 2nd John Gresley, chevalier, enrolled for service in France (v. supra, page 110), mai/ be identical with this Sir John of 6 H. 6 ; if, as General Wrottesley suggests, ‘‘ The Sir John Gresley who heads that second roll, has not been wiutten by mistake for Sir Thomas (who was not then above 50 years of age), for, when abbreviated, these names have a considerable resemblance in old writing.” Supposing there were two Sir Johns, the latter ^ ‘might possibly belong to the ‘ Edingale ’ branch of the family.” The Post-mortem Inquisition (22 Ric. 2, M. 19) taken at Lincoln, Marcli 4, 1398-9 a.d., before the Escheator of the county, states, that, through the death of Thomas late Earl of Stafford, and by reason of the minority of William his brother and heir, which William, lately died, while under age 392 SOMK ACCOUNT' OF COLTON and in the King^’s wardship ; there came into the King’s hands, among other Knight’s fees in that county, the fourth part of one Kts. fee in Thurleby, which William Wastness lately held ; and it is worth 20s. l)y the year : the moiety of a Kts. fee in Brassyngburgh, wliich the same William lately held, and it is Avorth 50s. yearly ; one Kts. fee in Carleby, Avhich the same William lately held, and it is worth 100s. by the year, &c. And they say the aforesaid William de Stafford died on April 6, 1395 A.D. ; and that Edmund his brother is the heir, and is more than 21 years of age. These Lincoln- shire fees which the Wasteneys held under de Stafford, had been entailed on Thomasine, William’s sister, failing heirs male ; Joan "Poly, their mother, had lield them apparently until her death in 1393 a.d. — but in 1398 a.d. they had clearly passed to Thomasine, Avho leases the manoi* of Braceborough, and ^ the advowson of Carleby. to her son Sir Thomas de Gresley. The death of Wm. Wastneys, the last male of the main line, must therefore have cocurred circa 1396-7 a.d. ? This further notice of William de Wastneys should liave appeared at page 85 [v. supra). IBt Masttn^ns of OtiiaU. Very little mention is made by Mr. Clifford of that brancli of the de Wastem'vs family Avhich was certainly seated at Tixall in 1164-5 a.d , and con- tinued to take an active part in tlie affairs of the AND OF PHF DF WASTENF.YS FAMILY. 393 neighbourhood down to the fifteenth century. They must have gained possession suljsequently to the Survey, but the exact date remains uncertain, the first available evidence being the Pipe roll of 13 H. 2. (Vol. 1. S. H. Coll., p. 51), when Gieoffrey’s manor of Tixall is fined for fort'st trespass ; con- firmed and explained by the Liber Niger entry (1166 A.D.), where Rol)ert de Stafford’s manors of Tixall and Caldon are identified with the 1^ Kts. fees held by Greoffrey de Wastineys; Tixall and Broncote being in his demesne (S. H. C., Vol. 1, pp. 177-8); the other half in the occupation of William de Caldon (Caldon-on-tlie-Moors). Sir Geoffrey’s successor was the Pagan, or Payne, le Wastineys, who attested AVilliam Corlmson’s grant of Chillington Manor to Peter Gifford c. 1176- 84 A. D. (S. H. C. Vol. 3, p. 204-5); and that of Alice de Hopton to Ralph Bret, c. 1184-93. We learn from the assize rolls of 1199 a.d. that he was murdered by one Stephen while a guest in the liouse of William the chaplain. Fifty years later a curious suit tried between the King and a sec^ond Payne le AVastineys, about the jurisdiction of the Doan of .St. Mary’s, Stafford, over the free chapel (church) of Tixall, throws further li^ht on the ^A^ astinevs descent. It seems (^^. Mr. Chetwynd Stapleton’s excellent “History of the Chetwynds”) that the royal chapels of the old Mercian border, Stafford, Penkridge, Gnosall, and AVolverhampton, had claimed to be exempt from the Bisliop’s authority ; they preferred that of tlie Pope, as less likely to 394 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON interfere, and called themselves *• free.” In the twelfth century Bishop Clinton obtained a grant of them from the Crown, but the Stafford chapter in King John’s time contrived to evade this, the King founding for them a new chuj*ch, St. Mary’s ; while they left the more ancient St. Chad’s, which was subject to the Bishop. In this suit of 1249 a.d. the jurors (whose names are given below)* made oath that the ancestors of Payne (2) le Wastineys had always })resented a clerk, when a vacancy occurred at Tixall, to the Dean of the King’s Chapel of St. Mary’s, Stafford (or to the chapter of St. Mary’s, if the Dean chanced to be absent from England at the time), a rule which had held good until Geoffrey le Wastineys, Payne’s ancestor, came in King John’s time and took away a certain body, which ought to have been buried there, caused it to be buried else- where, and afterwards presented his clerk to the Bishop of the diocese^ thereb}' infringing on the rights of the Dean and chapter of St. Mary’s. Evidentl}’ Geoffrey sided with the Bishop, and attempted to sever the tie between his church of Tixall and St. Mary’s, Stafford, while it seems likely enough, comparing this statement with Payne’s (1) murder, that he had removed Payne’s body foi* ljurial with others of his family ; certainly * They were Robert de Grendon — Robert de Esington — Robert Bagot of Holedale, William Griffin, Hugh de Galeton (Gayton), Richard de .Dray cote, Thomas de Oreswell, Eudo de Saut (Salt), Richard Meverel, William de Tyllingham, William Meverel, Hugh de Acovre, Richard de Saundon (Sandon). AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 395 it suj^gests that Geoffrey (2) succeeded Payne (1) at Tixall c. 1199 a.d., and was himself followed by the second Payne le Wastineys f33 H. 3. S. H. Coll., Vol. 4, p. 112^. There is an earlier reference to the latter in the abbreviatio Placitorum of 10 H. 3. (a.d. 1226) where a trial occurs between Geoffrey Griffin and this Payne de Wasteneys on the one side, and Matilda de Elkeston, wlio had accused them of unjustly depriving her of her freehold in Pllkeston, on the other. The abstracts from the chartulary of St Thomas’ Priory (506 Hark MS. B. Museum, printed in Staffs. H. Coll., Vol. 8) witness that several members of this Tixall line were successively bene- factors of the Priory, but that did not prevent a claim being raised concerning common of pasture in Tyxhall — one of the most frequent subjects of dispute at a time when inclosures were little known. The question was decided between the Prior and Payne le Wastineys in the year 1258 a.d. (vide Patent rolls 42. H. 3). Five years later Payne is noticed in the Testa de Neville as holding 2 kts. fees in Tixal. About the same time he witnessed a deed of Sir Wm. de Wasteneys of Colton. Payne de Wasteneys left four sons — Henry, Geoffery, Ralph, and Rol)ert. If we are to identifv Geoffrey with the Geoffrey le Wastineys the priest whom Henry presented to Tixall rectory. Henry, the eldest, is described as Lord of Tixall in a grant to him and to Alice (Bagot ?) his wife, from William Bagot, lord of Bromley (v. appendix). The date 396 .SOMK ACCOUN'I' OF COLTOX may be fairly (*.oriject tired from the mention made of William le Wasteney.s and William le Jovene (Mavesyn), of Little Hay.; (Henry must have died early, for in a.d. 1287-8 iv. Patent and Plea rolls) Eva de Oswaldstree, Adam de Chetwynd’s widow, guardian of the land and lieir of Henry le Waste- neys (who had died in the reign of Henry III.) brought an action of ^d’arreiniiresentmcnt concerning Tixall church against Geoffrey le Wastineys, Henry’s son and heir. It seems that Geoffrey had previously (1285 a.d.) accused her of making waste and damage in the houses and lands of his inherit- ance. Of Ralph de Wastinevs, who, there is good reason to conclude, was a younger son of Payne, we shall have to speak on another occasion. It will be sufficient to add now that he attests a deed of Sir Geoffrey’s, confirming ‘‘to God and to Richard, Prior of St. Thomas,” two clearings of land in a wood (“ assarta ”) outside the gate of the aforesaid priory (Hark MS. H. M 506). The deed bears date in 1295 a.d. Kirby’s quest speaks of Walter de Wasteneys liolding in Tixall, Hawergate, and Bromcote 1 kts. fee, but this is doubtless the same person as Geoffrey ( Galfridus being sometimes translated Walter). In 1306 Philip de Chetwynd sued Sir Geoffrey iov illeij dll tj detaining his cattle — the * “Assisa ultiinoe presen tationis ; or “ Trial of d’arrein pre sentment,” was an action fur the l ight of patronage by enquiring who took the precedent terms of presentation, for the easier discovery and settling of the property. AMI) OF THE 1)E VVASrENEYS FAMIl.Y. 397 first apparently of many disputes between the families of Clietwynd and de Wasteneys, who were too iieai’ neighl)ours to be free from continually clashing* interests, especially connected with rights of pasture in Tixall and Ingestre. Hir Geoffrey was possessed of some small propert\' in (yolton, for in 1314 he granted a tenement there to Henry, called Coleman. Two years later we meet with his signature to a deed of Hugh de Hanygate (Ingestre deeds). In 1332 Geoffrey le Wasteneys witnesses a recognizance for 500 marks from Vivian de Staundon to Roger de Swynnerton (Salt. MSS.) The Burton Abbe}’ Chartulary mentions him in 18 Ed. 2. Previously (in 21 Ed. 1) tho’ of full age — and holding a full knight’s fee — he had not yet been knighted, and Avas therefore in ‘Anisericordia.” Finally in 17 Ed. 2 he Avas among the jury Avho convicted the Al)bot of Burton with appropriating part of the Earl of Lancaster’s treasure, after the battle at Burton Bridge, but it was alleged that he Avas one of the Abbot’s eAdl-AAUshers. Of his four sons, by Eleanor his Avife, Maculine (or Malcolm), John, Henry, and William, the eldest, Malcolm de Wasteneys, Avas accused in the year 1316 (Coram rege rolls) together Avith one John Hodinet of Weston, by Joan, AvidoAv of Philip de Draycote, for carrying off by force from Hopton, Margaret, the daughter and co-heiress of Henry de Salt, whose marriage belonged to her. In 1329 a.d. Avith Margaret his wife (vide Patent rolls) he sued Isabella, Avho Avas the wife of Philip de Chetwynd, for 398 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON tenements in Ingestre and Heywode. The same rolls this year record that Henry de Wastneys his brother, was tried with may others for hunting in Nedwode forest, witliout tlie permission of Henr\' Earl of Lancaster, taking away the Earl’s deer, and assaulting his keepers. Malcolm witnessed a grant conveying land in (Jolton from John Bonde, of L. Rid ware, in 1332 (Ingestre deeds); and one of 8ir Thomas de Wasteney’s executed at Colton in 1333.^ Besides heading the Tixall subsidy roll of 6 Ed. 3, the following year he defended an action for pasture rights brought b}^ Geoffrey le Bottiler and Joan his wife. Three years later, further proof occurs of the quarrel between them, when the same Geoffrey de la Botellerie sues Malculm Wasteneys, Kt., Wm. de Donyngton, and Robert le Heyward, in a plea that they, together with Geoffrey, ‘‘Malcolm- prest, Wasteneys” (/.^., Geoffrey Wasteneys, his priest ?) had beaten and wounded him at Tyxhall, taken away his horse, worth 40s., and his goods to the value of £5, while the very next year, Malcolm, in his turn, is suing Geoffrey le Botiller and Joan his wife, with John the son of Joan, for forcibly cutting down liis timber at Tixhall to the same amount. In 1337 A.D. he was appointed, together with John de Stafford and others, to collect the King's scutage in this country — the appointment, which was dated from the Tower, and may be seen among the Fine Holls, appears to have been successful, for his name occurs as charged witli collecting the lOths AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 399 and 15ths granted to the King by Parliament the year following, when he was again representing Staffordshire, together with Richard de Peshale. The Patent Rolls of 1339 a.d. (12 Ed. 3) number ^lalcolm among the five persons chosen to survey the arraying of men for defence of the country against invasion, and to assist Richard Earl of Arundel and Thomas de Berkeley, whom the King had despatched for that purpose into Staffordshire. Malcolm’s tenure of a few acres in Colton, under John Bagot, has been already noticed (v. the Pleas of 12. Ed. 3). The Final Concoi*ds of the following- year show us Malcolm and Margaret his wife settling on Joan, daughter of Thomas de Gfrenham, 16 messuages, 8 virgates, and 32 acres of meadow in Tixall and Broncote, to hold of them for life, rendering a rose yearly ; to i*evert to Malcolm and his wife, and their heirs at her death, probably a collusive suit. We have omitted to notice that in 12. Ed. 3 the King sued Malcolm, son of Gfeoffrey Wasteneys, and John, son of Malcolm, for the next presentation to Tixall church (or “ free chapel”). The Pleas of 16. Ed. 3 1343 a.d. record Adam de Chetwynde’s charge against John, son of Henry de Wastineys (the nephew of Malcolm), and Margaret his wife, Richard de Wastneys, John’s brother, and Alice Wastneys, Richard’s sister, that they, together with Malcolm their uncle, and his wife Margaret, had broken into Adam’s house at Tixall, and beaten and wounded him, besides taking his goods to the value of £20. The same year Malcolm paid a fine 400 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON of lOs. for a writ of Oyer and Terminer, a grand jury cause, in the (county — we should probabh^ be justified in concluding that Malcolm de Wasteneys was known to be a man of considerable ability and influence, fait, owing })erha})s to his office of superintending the collection of the royal revenue (a charge which was again entrusted to liis hands in 1849), he seems to have been exceed- ingly unpopular among his neighbours, as the Patent rolls of 1844 a.d. testify, where several judges are named to hear and determine his complaint against 8ir John Bagot, Kt., Alice, who was the wife of Sir Philip de Chetwynd, Kt., Ralph Bagot, Ralph de Chetwynd, and some thirty more, as malefactors and disturbers of the king’s peace — thev having forcibly entered his mill at Tixall, and the pool of the same mill at Ingestrie and Hay wode, and carried away the timber of the mill and the piles and wattles of the pool to the value of £100 (a large sum in those days) and having otherwise injured him and broken the peace. (Feb. 8, 1844.) Rynier prints a special writ of military summons issued after the king’s departure by the custos of the kingdom (19 Ed. 8 1846) to Kts. and others citra Trent to join this expedition into Fi’ance — ultra Trent being summoned to resist the Scots — Malcolm de Wasteney’s name occurs amongst the former. In 1858 a.d. he sued Simon, Vicar of Sandon, the executor of Adam de Chetwynde’s will, for a debt of £2. William, son * The members for Staffordshire in the Parliament of 1338-4 were Malculm de Wasteneys and Robert de Dutton. AND OF THE DE WA8TENEYIS FAMILY. 401 of Malcolm, his father’s successor at Tixall, held the same office for the collection of the royal tenths and fifteenths in 1371 a.d. — being then under age — apparently in recognition of his father’s services ; and again six years afterwards. He was declared to be the heir male of William le Wasteneys of Elton in Cheshire, as we learn from the Cheshire post mortem inquisitions 1384, 7 R. 2, but apparently only to a small portion of the estate, worth 20s. yearly, for it was not until the death of Agnes, only child of the aforesaid William de Wasteneys and wife of William de Bradburne of Chester, a.d. 1411, that he succeeded to the whole property as next of kin. It is expressly stated that he was then 60 years old, so that he must have been born a.d. 1351. — Agnes de Bradburne was his first cousin twice removed — Subsequently he sold Elton Manor, then valued at 22 marks a year, to Hugh and John de Holes, to whom he seems previously to have granted the reversion in 1396. As early as 1355 a.d. (28 Ed. 3), the Plea rolls prove William Wasteneys was suing Ralph le Parker of Charteley, for sending cattle to trespass on his growing corn at Tixeshale. In 1364, as Lord of Tixall, he attests a deed of John de Gresley, with Ralph Bagot, then Lord of Blithfield, and in 1383 a.d. witnesses a grant of Hanyard land to St. Thomas Priory. Possibly William’s action was during his father’s lifetime, for the Tixall trespass is explained by an Aston deed (in Chetw}nid’s MSS. collection) stating that Malcolm de Wastineys, in 23 Ed. 3 402 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLT(JN 1850), had conveyed to William Wastineys, his eldest son, and his heirs, the manor of Tixall ; James and John de Stafford, and John de Aston, Kts., being witnesses. William de Wasteneys of Tixall left behind him a family, consisting of two sons and two daughters, living at his death ; of the latter one daughter, Matilda, married an Eyton, and on her and her heirs male Roger de Wasteneys, who succeeded his father in the estate (during that father’s lifetime as it appears), settled the Tixall Manor and advowson, failing his own heirs, but failing further heirs by her, then on Roger his younger l)rother (vide Ingestre deed;. It seems strange that two brothers should have borne the same name, but the deed establishes the fact unquestionably ; and similar instances occur from time to time. A Retinue roll of the Earl of Stafford, about 1884 a.d., names Roger Wasteynes among the esquires — a Worcester- shire assize of 16. R. 2, about a carucate of land in Wolvardeleye, which Ralph Pychford had formerly given to Geoff re^^ Wasteneys and Alianor, his wife, is valuable, as giving Roger’s descent through William and Maculine to Geoffrey, his great grand- father (vol. 15. S.H.C., p. 55). We find him charging William de Slvndon with forcibly breaking into his (Roger’s) land at Stafford, and carrying away goods to the value of £5, two years later, and in 18. Ric. 2 one Richard Eggesley was attached at Ids suit foi* having taken forcibly from Tixall his Avheat, barley, &c., with timber, brass and wooden AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 403 vessels, linen and clothes, to the value of 20 marcs, besides carrying off his native and servant, one Henry Aleyn, for which he claimed £40. Again, 20. Ric. 2, he is found suing William de Asshe for suffering his house at Tixall to become dilapidated, contrary to agreement. The Pleas of 1. H. 4 prove that the Wolvardeleye land claim was still unde- cided — it again stood over, a postscript adds (vol. 15. S.H.C., p. 92), owing to King Richard II.’ s abdi- cation. After the death of Phillippa, his first wife, Roger the elder married Ann, whose name is given in a deed dated July 7th, 4. H. 4 (possibly an error for 4. H. 5, A.D. 1417), by which Thomas Wyleby and Richard Sa}^ grant and confirm to him and Ann his wife the Manor of Tixhall, together with the advow- son of the free chapel there, which they lately had of the gift of the aforesaid Roger, to have and to liold, to him and his heirs by Ann, in tail, or if he die childless, then to her for her life, and afterwards to his next heirs. In a.d. 1418 Roger and Ann de Wasteneys appoint John de Wodehous and Richard Say their attornies against the Crown, on a traverse of an action touching the Manors of Bertherton and Grrayste and tenements in Saltersyche, Wyghtreston and Wylaston (vide Report of the Deputy Keeper of P. Records for 1876, part 2), proving that he had considerable property besides that at Tixall. The other sister Alianor married a Harcourt. With Rose, the only child of Roger and Ann de Wasteneys, the Tixall branch of the Wasteneys 404 SOME ACCOUNT OF COUPON family ended in the main line. Having- no issue by her marriage with Sir John Merston, Kt., she sold the reversion of these estates to the Littletons. She seems ])reviously to have meditated parting with her life interest in Tixall Manor for a yearly sum of £‘24 {yUh Ingestre deed 1461 a.d.), even if the arrangement was not hnally made. A¥e learn from a deed, quoted by Dugdale, that Hose repudi- ated all connection with the de AA^asteneys of Colton, then represented by Sir John de Gresley, Kt., quoting in evidence her descent from Payne de Wasteneys accurately enough, though had she known how to carry back the pedigree to Liber Niger, Sir John Gresley’s claim might have been differently regarded. The deed alluded to is an agreement concerning the reversion of Tixall Manor, instanced by Dugdale to prove the care shown by all concerned in levying Fines,” but chiefly valuable to our present purpose because of the light which it throws upon the pedigree of the Tixall line : it runs as follows — (8th Ed. 4) To all Christian men, to whom this present wiyting shal (‘.ome. Rose, that was the wyff of Sir John Merston, Kt., sendeth greeting in God ever- lasting : ” Know ye me the saide Rose to sey and affirme, that Thomas Littleton oon of the King’s Justices of the Common place, bargayned, bought, and purchased for a certeine summe of money, which lie liath duly payd, the reversion of the Maner of Tixall in Staffordshire, and of certeine Tenements and Rents in other Toaviis in the same AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 405 Shire, of the said John Marstoii, sumtyme my husband, and of me, to have after the decece of my said husband and me : by force of which a F yne was re red at Westmynster ; by which Fyne a state was made of the said Maner to my husband and to me, terme of our lives ; the remaynder thereof unto the said Thomas Littleton and Jane his wife, and to the heires of the said Thomas Littleton for ever- more, as in the sayd Fine more plainly appeareth. Afore which Fyne rered, 1 did ask of Sir John Prisot, the Chefe Justice of the Common place, and divers others, to whom I had special confidence and trust ; and also of other divers Apprentices lerned in the La we, of my Councell ; wheder that my seid husband and I, might sille the reversion of the said Maner without perell of our Soulles : and they desired me to enfourme and shew them how the seid Maner afore that tyme was entayled : and I shewed them the part of an hole Fyne, whereof the tenor sheweth in these words. [1826. a.d.J H^jec est finalis concordia facta in Curia domini Regis apud Westmonasterium, a die S. Trinitatis in XV dies, anno regni Regis Edwardi, filii Regis Edwardi, decimo nono, coram Willielmo de Hereford, Johanne de Mutford, Willielmo de Herle, Johanne de Stonare et Johanne de Busse Justiciariis, et aliis domini Regis fidelibus, tunc ibi presentibus ; inter Galfridum de Wasteneys de Tyxhall quoerentem et Rogerum de Aston personam Ecclsioe de Weston, de- forciantem, de Manerio de Tyxhall, cum pertinentiis, et advocatione Ecclesioe ejusdem Manerii, unde placi- 406 SOME ACC(JUNT OF COLTON turn conventionis summonitum fuit inter eos in eadem curia ; soil quod proedictus Galfridus recognovit proedicta maneria, cum pertinentiis et advocationem proedictam esse j us ipsius Rogeri ; ut ilia quoe idem Rogerus liabet de dono proedicti Galfridi : et pro liac recognitione tine et concordia idem Rogerus (concessit pr(jedicto Galfrido })r(jedictum manerium cum pertinentiis et advocationem proedictam et ilia ei reddidit in eadem (mria, Habenda et tenenda eideni Galfrido de capitalibus dominis feodi illius? per servicia c[uoe ad proedictum manerium et advoca- tioneni pertinent, tota vita ipsius Galfridi ; et post decessum ipsius Galfridi (&c.) renianere Maculino dlio ejusdem Galfridi et Margaretoe uxori ejus, et lioeredibus dt' corporibus ipsorum Maculini et Margaretoe exeuntibus ; tenenda (&c.) renianere Johanni fratri ejusdem Maculini et lioeredibus de corpore suo procreatis ; tenenda (&c.) renianere Henrico fratri ejusdem Joliannis et lioeredibus de corpore suo procreatis ((fee.) renianere Willielnio fratri ejusdem Henrici et lioeredibus de corpore ((fee.) remanere rectis lioeredibus ijjsius Galfridi ; tenenda ((fee.) in perpetuum.” And they asked me of whom and how that 1 came of any such persons named in the seyd Fine: and 1 seyd ; that I came of Makelyn Wastneys and Margaret his wiff named in the seyd Fine ; that is to say that 1 am daughter to Roger, sonne to William, son to the seyd Maculine and Margaret. They examined me, wheder any of the Brethren of the said Maculine, that is to sey, John, Henry; or AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 407 William had any issue on lyve : and I seyd to them may, But all ben ded without issu, which is very trouth. They asked me whidei* 1 was heire to Geffrey Wastneys named in the seyd Fine; and I seyd I am heire to the seyd Geffrey ; fo he was my gTaunsire’s graunsire. They asked me whether there was eny more issue now on lyve, that come of the said Maculine and Margaret : and 1 said nay : for I seyd, if Alianoure Harecourt, which was myn Aunte, that is to sey my FaduFs sister, had bin on lyve, and oberleved me, she shulde enherite the seid livelode by force of the seid taill made to Makelyn and Margaret, after me : but now she is ded without issue, there is no more issue now on Ivve that come of the said Makelyn and Margaret sauf only 1, in as much as I was the last of the entaill, and the fee simple thereof was in me : where- upon my husband and 1 rered a Fyne in the fourme as I have seyd. And whereas Sir John Gresley Kt. seyth, as I am enfournied, that lie should be my next kyn to enherite after me the said Livelode ; betwene God and me 1 sey, as 1 sliall answer afore the day of Dome, 1 canne not, nor never coulde wete or knowe, nor never herde by my Fadur, nor other in noe manner wyse ; how or in what wyse he shoulde be kyn to me, to inherite in any wise the seid Livelode ; save that it was seid, that he come of oon Sir Thomas Wastnesse, Avhich Wastnesse was longe tyme afore the seyd old Fyne a rered : but hoAV, or in what wyse 1 was kyn to that Wastnesse I cowd never here tell. And furthermore 1 sey and 408 SOME A(^COlTN'l' (JE COLTON affirme, that there is none on lyve that I know or can here of, that is or may be en heritable by eny manner of fee tayle specified or comprised in the seid old Fyne reryd in the time of the seid King Edward the second : In witness whereof to this present writinge I liave [)ut my seall.” (1469 a.d.) There remain three other offshoots of this 4hxall line to be accounted foi*. John de Wastineys, second son of Geoffrey, and younger brother of Maculine, had removed into Cheshire, and left a son William married to Cicely de Arderne {vide Ormerod). The Recognizance rolls for the Palatinate mention his name frequently. In a.d. 1309 he was Equitator* of the forests of Mara (Delamere) and Mondrem ; two years afterwards he was Lord of Elton, and gave recognizance for 8 marks to Sir Robert de Holand. One third of Elton Manor he had held previously to his marriage, and by that he acquired the remainder for a nominal rent of one rose yearly (Chester Records, 4 Ed. 2). His wife survived him, and being at feud with Peter de Thornton — probably on some boundary question (Ormerod) —made over the Elton property (30 Ed. 3, Plea Rolls) to Sir John de Arderne, in order to secure his support against Thornton. Her son William married a lady named Katherine, and in a.d. 1341 vested Elton Manor, subject to his mother Cicely’s life interest, in trust for his daughter Agnes, wife of William de * Riding forester, whose chief duty was to attend and ride before the king when he went into the forest. This office was worth £500 a year in the New Forest. AND OF PHE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 409 Bradburne. In 1849 we find a general pardon was granted him. In 1 854, together with Thomas de Venables, he gave recognizance for £20, and also to Thomas de Arderne for £ 1 000. There can be little doubt that he died in a.d. 1856, for in the following year Katherine, his wife, gave recognizance for a meadow at Elton Mosse, late her husband’s property; whilst in 1858 Edward the Black Prince granted to Richard Sutton, yeoman of the king, the lands of William de Wasteneys, with the marriage of John de Wasteneys, his infant son and heir, to hold the said land free of all charges on account of the forest of Delamere. John died an infant ; and on the death of Agnes, in 1411, all the Elton property reverted to William, son of Maculine and Lord of Tixall, who was served heir, as already noticed. We have to recur now to Ralph de Wasteneys of of Tixall, whom we believe to have been the brother of Henry of Tixall, and uncle therefore of Geoffrey. He, too, acquired property in Cheshire by marrying Beatrice, the younger of the two daughters and co- heiresses of William de Venables. The Feet of Fines (1272 a.d.) shew Ralph and Beatrice resigning to Simon de Acton, for 27 marcs, their claim on four virgates of land in Acton, Simon having been called to warrant them to Adam de Parco, and Cecilia his wife, and William de Englefeud and Alice his wife. (vol. 4, S. H. C., p. 257.) Supposing this to be the identical Acton on which Alice, wife of Wm. de Wasteneys (1) had claims, and for which Sir Philip sued John, son of Stephen 410 SOMP: ACCOUNT' (W COLTON de Acton (tern}). Kin^ John), it is difficult to under- stand what claim Ralph Wastoneys could make upon it in right of his wife. I should (‘include rather that it is anothe]’ Acton altogether, luit more evidence is required if the ])oint is to Ije cleared up satisfac- torily. The Pleas of 21. Ed. J [wove Beatrice to liave been previously married to Robert de Whyston, when she claimed dower in twelve acres at Little Sardon from Robei*t le Champiown. In 1272 Ralph le AAasteneys, of Tykeshall, was sent to prison for hunting and taking a hind and fawn from Kinver Forest (Staffs. Hist. Coll., v. o, p. 158). About A.D. 1280 Halph witnesses a deed of Arch- bishop John (Peckham) of Canterbury, in compam^ with Nicholas Baron Stafford and \¥illiam Bagot. In 1289 he sat on the inquisition made at Stafford into tlie lands of John de Eyton, deceased. In 1298 Raufe de Wasteneys de Tixall and Beatrice, his wife, gave Winsham Manor to theii’ son Payne (named after his grandfather) and to Margaret, his wife, daughter of Alexander de Baumvyle, for a vearlv rent of six marks, to be paid during the lives of Ralph and Beatrice. In 1807 a.d. Ralph’s name is found among the witnesses to a deed which Henry Coleman signed at Tixhall, as also to the undated grant of Robert Lord of Hanengate, before referred to (Ingestre deeds). Like his father, Payne de Wasteneys seems to have kept u]) his connection with the Eytons, if we are right in supposing he is the Payne de Wasteneys referred to in 1826, when a special commission was issued to Geoffrey le Scrop, AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 411 John de Stonare and others, to inquire into unlawful assemblies of armed men and homicides in Stafford- shire. The cause being tried at Tamworth, the jury reported that owing to a quarrel which had arisen between Thomas de Brumpton on the one part, and William de Ipstanes on the other, res})ect- ing the church of Eyton, either side had congregated a number of armed men, and that Thomas de Brumpton had collected Sir William de Stafford, Kt., James de Stafford and John his brother, James son of Roger Trumwine and Roger his brother, Roger de Chetwynd and others, in all about eiglit}^ men, who rode aimed about the country to the terror of the people and disturbance of the King’s peace. That William de Ipstanes on his side main- tained John de Ipstanes, Kt., William de Chetelton, Henr}' de Creswell and others, to the numljer of at least forty men, armed on foot and horseback — and that Thomas de Brumpton and his party, together witli Roger de Giresleye, Robt. Beaumis (Baumvylle y), Richard de Venables, Richard de Aston, Robt. de Aston, John de Verdon, Hugh son of Hugh de Wastineys, and Pagan de Wastineys held the church of Eyton liy force, by the mainte- nance of Sir Win. de Stafford, Kt., and of Isabel, lady of Ingestre. Those named are therefore ordered to be arrested by the sheriff. This extract is curious enough, as showing the confusion and lawlessness produced by the weak rule of the second Edward. Payne de Wastineys had given recog- nisance in 1J()7 for £6 16s. 4d., to William de 412 SOME ACCOUNT' OF COI/FON Doncaster, and again in 1811 for £5 5s. to Richard Russell, citizen of Chester. By Margaret de Baum- vyle he left two sons, of whom the younger, Alex- ander de Wasteneys, married Alice, and had a son Hugh. John de Wasteneys, the elder brother, succeeded to Winsham, and died in 1885, leaving three daughters only — (1) Margaret, who was of age at the time of her father’s death, and obtained a writ from P^dward the Black Prince to the Chamber- lain of Chester to give her livery of her share in Winsham ; (2) Ellen ^ied unmarried ; (8) Alice, the remaining sister, became the wife of Robert Cholmondeley. In 1878 Margaret and her husband, John de Leigh, with Alice and her husband, R. de Cholmondeley, brought an action against their cousin Hugh for 80 acres of land and six acres of meadow in Winsham, which Hugh had apparently claimed as heir male to his uncle, John de Waste- neys. Margaret subsequently married Gerald Massey, on the death of John de Leigh. It is to be observed that this family of De Wasteneys, though expressly called ‘‘of Tyxall,” bore different arms — viz., a cross patonce voided by a plain cross f^vide the seal of Ralph de Wasteneys). DEEDS RELATING TO THE DE WASTENEYS OF TIXALL. 1896 A.D. Sciant presentes et futuri quod nos Ricardus Ffyssher capellanus et Thomas Mallery dedimus DE WASTINEYS OF TIXALL, BRONCOTE, HAN YARD, &c. ID II — CQ QJ C m ^ p M CO ^ k 02 •< 'o Cl . “ P w £ ^ gS 5 s .5 CO IN 13 .S CS r-l 6- ^ O > o - 03 5-1 0 h3 ^ 00 "TlS d o 03 03 ^ > >>2 g a 03 02 ^ o ■ 03 03 G ^ 03 03 ^ C ^ >> ^ P 3 - 03 O a O c Pm^ * 4-1 °(i: “02 - bOO o ^ p? d 'O 03 >> i-> C 03 'W 03 ^ .2 > '^-2 .2^ -P^ 03 03 03 03 03 II — — ^ 0. eis tH ^ O ^ .1 ^ < - II -I ® (M ^ CO ^i-H geo te 05 o 22 03 I— * O II — ' ^ I 03 ' a --33 O *“5 03 jSoo - II — ^ CO ® pq eS ^ 03 — H II ' O CO ' ^ I — II ■ d § 03 ® s -Q . 'V S £ ^PP II CO . - ® > 02 ■ II ^ ^02 h2^* §2- /V PP CO bD' o pp f.f . AND OF THE DE WASTENEY8 FAMILY. 41 .S concessimus et hac present! carta nostra indentata in qiiatuor partibus divisa — contirmaviinus Rogero Wasteneys senior! et Phillipe uxori sue manerium nostrum de Tyxhale, cum advocat’ lib’ capelle dicte ville de Tyxhall, et etiam omnia alia terras tene- ment’ redditus et reversiones cum omnibus pertin ’suis quoe liabuimus de dono et feoffmento diet! Roger! per cartam suam inde nobis confect’ The deed then goes on to provide that if Roger died without heirs male, the Tixall Manor, advowson, &c., should pass to his sister Matilda de Illyton — and failing heirs male of hers, then to Rogei* Wasteneys junior, brother of the aforesaid Roger Wasteneys senior, and the heirs male of his body lawfully begotten, and failing them — should then revert to the right heirs of Rogei* the elder for ever — Datum apud Tyxhalle anno regni regis Ricardi secundi post conquestum decimo nono His testibus, Johne le Strange et Johne Bagot militibus, Johne Wyard, Thome Erdeswicke, Johne Bailey de Handesacre, et aliis. A.D. 1399. Omnibus Xti. fidelibus ad qiios hoc presens scriptum indentatum pervehit Rogerus de Wasteneys de Tyxhall sal’ in domino sempiternam, noveritis me dedisse, concessisse et hoc present! scripto nieo indentato confirmasse Ricardo Say omnia terras, tennment’ mea, redditus, reditus et servicia ward’ et maritag’ et eschet’ cum omnibus aliis pertin’, que habeo in villis et in campis de Admeston et Steven- 414 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON toil et Colton et qiiemdam annualem’ reddit’ viginti duorum solid’ quos percipere solebam de Johne Clerk de Colton de omnibus terris que quondam fuenmt Henrici Colmon de Colton pro bono servicio. (plod idem Ricardus milii impendit et in posterum impendet Habend’ et tenend’ ad totuin terminum vitce ipsius Ricardi ; Reddend’ inde annuatim mihi et heredibus meis imam rubrain rosam ad festuni nat’ Sancti Johis Baptist’ sipetatur, et post deeessum ipsius Ricardi Say omnia p’ dicta mihi proefato Rogero ^yasteneys et hered’ meis revertentur, et integre remaneljimt in perpetuum. His testibus Johne Bailey de Handsacre, Johne Bird, Wmo. Clerk de Tyxhall et aliis — Datum in fest’ Sancti Edwardi Regis, anno regni Regis, Henrici quarti primo 1307 A.D. (Latin.) A Bond from Henry called Colinan of Colton for 2'2 silver shillings of yearly rent, to be paid at Lady Da}' and Meins, to Geoffrey de Wasteneys, Lord of Dyxhall, secured on Henry Cohnan’s lands in Colton* and elsewhere, sealed hy him and witnessed ])y Domo. William de Stafford, Dom. Wmo. Trom- wine (?) (erased), Dom. Richard de Bissepeston, rector of the church of Tyxhall, Ralph de Wasteneys, Roliert de Hampton,' John de Pikestoke, John de Cressewalle, and others. Given at Tyxhall on Sunday before the feast of All Saints, in the hrst ^'ear of King Edward, son of Edward, and year of grace mccevii. * V. supra, page 108. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 415 1461 A.D. (Latin). This indenture, made between John Merston, Kt., and Rose his wife on the one part, and William Wore, Clerk, Rotfern Walle Clerk, Wm. Comber- ford, Christopher Goldsmyth, and Richard Poore on the other part, witnesseth — That Sir John Merston and Rose his wife, by these presents, have confirmed to the aforesaid persons the Manor of Tyxhall, and all the property belong-ing to it, for payment of £24 annually for the life of Sir John and Rose, the money to be paid at the church of the Preaching* Friars in London, to them or their attorney. Done last day of Septbr. 1, Ed. 4.” [This deed has no seal.] The Burton Abbey chartulary (S. H. Coll., vol. 5, p. 1) records a charge brought by Hugh Wastneis, son of Ysult of Ammerton, near Hixon and Gay ton, in 1275 A.D., for two bovates and four acres of land at Abbot’s Brondey ; which his mother had held b^^ charter under the seal of Abbot William. After various delays the Abbot made peace for two marks with Hugh, who surrendered the charter. The same Hugh Wastneis joined apparently with William le Wasteneys in a grant of land to Ralph de Hampton. He liad a son William who acquired land in Hixon from Geoffrey de Gresley ; and evidently another son, named Hugh after his father, who occurs in the Plea rolls of 19 Ed. 2. (S. H. Coll.) In 1287 a.d. Alianor Ferrars sued Hugh le Wasteneys, with John 416 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON and William his sons, for beating her men, and damaging her trees at Chartley" and Hixon — while in 21 Ed. 1 (1293 a.d.) Robert, son of Geoffrey de Gresley was indicted for the homicide of John son of Hugh le Wasteneys of Hixon. We meet with another son, Richard, in 15 Ed. 2, summoned as a witness to a Hixon charter. The pedigree of this Amerton and Hixon branch of the family runs thus: — — le Wasteneys = Ysult de Amerton. Hugh (1) le Wasteneys of Hixon and iVmerton, V. 1275—1287 A.D. John Wil Liam Hugh (2) Richard s. of Hugh (1) s. of Hugh (1) s. of Hugh Slain before 2 fild. 1 1287. le Wasteneys 15 Ed. 2 by Rob. de Gresley. | s. of Hugh. and 1 -130 a.d. . . . ' . I William W. = Eliz. Trumwyn Hugh (3) of Amerton and Hixon of Amerton 1363 A.D. (1349 A.D.) Two grandchildren of Hugh (1), and perhaps the sons of Hugh (2), (but this is not certain) were the William de Wasteneys of Amerton, named in the Pleas of 1363 a.d. (36 Ed. 3) S. H. Coll., and Hugh (3) of Amerton, who occurs in 1349 a.d., and subsequently had letters of protection while serving- in Brittany under the Duke of Lancaster (1356 a.d.) The former of these, William de Wasteneys of Amerton, is frequently named between 36 and 50 Ed. 3 ; one entry, for which I am again indebted to AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 417 Genrl. Wrottesley, mentions William Wasteneys and Elizabeth liis wife, as tenants for life of a place called la Moss ” (in Hixon) which Roger Trumwyn deceased held of William Trumwyn deceased ; which was held of the king in capite. William died under age Avhile in ward to the king; Win. Wasteneys and Elizabeth pay 2s. for their relief. Elizabeth was probably the daughter and heiress of Roger. Michael Wastness, and Thomas his brother, who were associates of Wm. Grresley and others, in injuring the property of William Bromshulf, described in the Pleas of 49 and 50 Ed. 8 (S. H. Coll.) majj have been brothers of William and Hugh of Amerton. The Pagan, or Payne de Wastneys of 19 Ed. 2, named immediately after Hugh, son of Hugh de Wastneys, was probably another of the same branch — all of them an offshoot of the Tixall line. — Whether the moat still visible at Hixon marks the site of their dwelling, or that of the le Blunds, must remain an open question. MasteitJgs of H^boit, i^oiilotck, The borders of Nottinghamshire and Yorkshire became the home of a branch of the de Wasteneys destined to survive long after the rest were extinct. 418 SOMP] ACCOUNT OF COLTON and only to expire in the last century. Its founder, Sir Edmond de Wasteneys, was a younger son of the main (or Colton) line, and, to judge from what we know of his history, fairly entitled to rank with the most enterprising and successful of his family. We first meet with him in the year 129o a.d., when he witnessed a Colton deed, with John de Wasteneys, whom we believe to have been his elder brother ; the same year he had letters of })rotection while absent in Wales under the banner of Nicholas de Alditheleye (Audley). Edmond was certainly a distinguished soldier ; we have proof of the value of his services four years later, when Nicholas de Audley accuses him of failing to kee}) the engage- ment he had made to form one of his retinue in France. Possibly the fact that John de Wastineys was in the company of John de Warren Earl of Surre}', may account for Sir Edmund’s desertion of the Audleys (v. S. H. Coll., vol. 8). Sir Edmund was })resent at the siege of Stirling ; and continued to serve in Scotland under Sir Robert de Clifford for some time. The records (preserved in the Exchequer, and edited by Sir F. Palgrave) prove him to have been with the king at Dunfermline (vol. 1, p. 265). Six years afterwards he was performing military service due from Piers Gaveston, Earl of Cornwall, when the muster Avas at TAveedmouth, for the king having invaded Scotland in September AATiitered at Berwick, where he Avas joined by his fuAmurite Gaveston. But in a.d. 1311 Sir Edmond Avas again at Colton, and assisted William de Wasteneys, his AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 419 ne})how, in attesting a deed of Anselm le MarescliaPs. He a})pears to have had great influence with Sir William, for even so imjiortant a matter as the wardsliip of Thomas de Wasteneys. The eldest son and heir was disposed of hj his advice. In a.d. 1314 Sir Edmond was again summoned to Newcastle-on- Tyne for a projected invasion of Scotland. In 1316 he is certified to be lord of the township of South Denchworth, in Berkshire, though how this came about we are unable to say, whilst he was owner of the manors of Thorn Gumbald, Brampton-on-le- Morthen, and Todwick, in Yorkshire. This last he had acquired by purchase from Sir John Horbury in 1300; and besides holding the advowson there, he obtained a charter of free warren from the king. From 1319 to 1325 he served frequently as a Com- missioner of Array for the West Riding, receiving in 1321, a pardon for any felonies he might have committed when serving under Sir Hugh de Audeley in pursuit of the De Spensers. In 1 324 he was summoned to attend Parliament at Westminster. The unfortunate Edward II. was murdered three years after ; and it is well worth}^ of notice ^ that when the Monasteries of Bristol and Malmesbury, from a cowardly fear of offending Isabel and Mortimer, had refused to receive the body of the king, and Abbot Thokey, mindful of past kindness, caused the corpse to be conveyed to Gloucester for interment,’ — on that' occasion Sir Edmond de Wasteneys was one of those who received pay for guarding the body from Berkeley Castle to 420 SOME ACCOUNT OF COLTON its last restmg*-place {vide Hu^li Glanville’s Roll and Archccological Journal^ Vol XVII., p. 307). The Nottinghamshire estate at Hedon was acquired by Sir Edmond in a.d. 1330, a tine having l)een levied between him and Simon Joyce of tlie manor and advowson, by which it was settled on Sir Edmond and liis heirs after the death of Lawrence de Chaworth, who then held it*; whilst l)y a second fine, between Simon de Joyce, of Wymondeswould, and Marriot his wife, and Sir Edmond de Wasteneys, the premises were settled on Simon and Marriot for their lives, and after their decease on Robert, son of Sir Edmond and the heirs of his body, with remainder to William, Thomas, and Edmond, brothers of the said Robert, and their heirs, successively, remainder to the said Sir Edmond and his heirs for ever. This may possibly imply some connection by a second marriage between Simon Joyce and Sir Edmond de Wastineys ; which would account for the otherwise somewhat marked omission of the eldest son Har- dolph in the entail. Subsequently Hedon became the chief residence of the family, although we know that they had a manor house at Todwick, if not at Brampton, and other possessions of Sir Edmond’s, including one knight’s fee in Treeton and Ulley ; besides a fee mentioned in Kirby’s Inquisition (one of the Exchequer records), held under Thomas de Furnivalle — though that entry refers, I think, to * Lawrence de Chaworth and Agnes his wife, as the York Cathedral registers prove, received land at Hedon from ^Nicholas de Hedon in 1310 a.d. AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY. 421 part of the estate already mentioned. In com]iany with his eldest son, Sir Hardolph, he attests a deed respecting Morthen ” 1831 a.d. — and in the Arcli- bishop’s registers at York is styled “Lord of Hedon,’’ about the same time. Two years later he presented a rector to Todwick Church, which we believe to have been one of the last acts of his long and successful career.'^ After his death, a chantry was founded in Todwick Church, to pray for the soul of Sir Edmond de Wastineys, and endowed for that object with lands in Wales, which Avere valued in Henry Vlllth’s time at £4 4s. Sir Edmond bore the usual arms of De Wastenevs of Colton, but with the lion double queued for difference. If we may accept as correct the somewhat par- ticular account given in the Herald’s Visitations (Harl MS. B. M.), Sir Hardol})h de Wasteneys, by his first wife Sibil, had two children — Thomas, who died an infant, and a daughter Jane. Isabel, daughter of Lexborne, his second wife is said to have brought him no family. In 7 Ed. III. (1884 a.d.) Sir Hardolph was ])resent at the Dunstable tourna- ment, his arms being thus given in the Collectan. Topogra. (Vol. IV. p. 895): “ Mons. Ardolph de Wasteneys’ de Sable, ove un lyon rampant d’argent, oA^e la queue fourchc.” Also the same year 1834 A.D. Hardolph Wastineys and Roger Curzoun Avere chosen to array 5 hobelars, and tAventy ardiers in the * The Edmond de Wastineys, who took out letters of protec- tion while serving in Scotland, 1334 a d., must, we conceive, have been Sir Edmond’s youngest son above-named. 422 somp: account of colton wapentak of Strafford, in the West Riding (Vol. 8, S.H.C). A deed among the Dodsworth MSS. (Bodleian), dated 1343 a.d., states in relation to land at Bnbwirth “ qne Hardul pirns de Wastinevs miles, et Sibilla uxor ejiis, tenuerunt in dote uxoris Sibille de hereditate Thome deBeghlay” (16 hid. 3). Two years afterwards (9 Ed. III.) he was summoned to attend a meeting in the West Riding of Yorkshire (1336 A.D.). The remaining acts of his life, with the date of his death, are alike unknown to us, and our first reliable information concerns the presentation of a rector to Todwick Church by Robert de Wasteneys in 1350 a.d. The year following 1351 a.d., Robert, who is styled Lord of Hedon and Todwick, and Florence his wife, by fine with John de Kyneton, parson of Radecliff-on-Trent, and Gregory de Benerlase, parson of Hedon-in-the-Clay, settled the manor and advowson, with the advowson of the chantry of the B.V. Mary in Hedon Church, on Robert and Florence and their heirs male, failing Robert’s male heirs ; then to Edward his brother and his heirs — failing them, then to John, son of William Wastenavs and his heirs male (and then to the next heirs general of Robert). That Hedon remained in the hands of Florence is indisputable, for that very year, as Robert’s widow, and mistress of Hedon-in-the-Clay, she presented Hardolph de Wasteneys, clerk, described as ^Ghe son of Robert,” to Hedon Rectory (York registers). Hardolph was accepted by tlie Archbishop, John de AND OF THE DE WASTENEYS FAMILY 423 Tlioresby, at Thorp, near York, Aug. 24, 1369. After lioldiiig it twelve months only, Hardulph resigned the living, and James de Kyneton was then presented by Florence. It seems that John de Wasteneys, son of William, and ne])hew of Kobert and Florence, had inherited the Todwick estate, judging from tlie following notice, to be found among the Lansdowne MSS. : ^^Ankerus Freshville dedit Jolianni Wasteneys Domino de Todwick 100 marcas agenti cum filia sua Agnete in Maritagio lloberto tilio et heredi proedicti Johannis Wasteneys.” — 42 Ed. 3 (1369). A suit between Eobert, son of John Wasteneys, and Agnes his wife, against John Wasteneys of Todwick, his father, and Alice his wife, occurs about tliis date. In 1370 A.D., Florence Wastenevs of Hedon-in-the- Clay, and Hardulph her son, with live others, are attached at the suit of Mary de St. Paul, Countess of Pembroke, for forcibly cutting her grass at East Drayton, and removing hay worth £20. They denied the tresj^ass and injury, appealing to a jury; probably they had land here and were but exercising their legal rights. (S. H. Coll., vol. 13, p. 74.) In 1375 and 1378, John de Wasteneys presented to the living of Todwick. In 1401 he witnesses a deed as Lord of Hedon ; and on May 12 that year gave a rector to Hedon Church (York registers). In 1403, again presenting to the forenamed parish. His must have been a long life, extending at least to 70 years. Robert, the eldest son, who married Agnes de Freshville, took out letters of protection in 424 80ME ACCOUNT OF COLTON 1383 A.D., when about to serve abroad in the retinue of the Bisho]) of Norwich (S. H. Coll.). He a})})ears to liave died in his father’s lifetime ; for the next patron of Todwick in 1416 a.d. was William Wasteneys. The same year (3 H. 5) William Wasteneys of Hedon sued John Spynkhill, of Spynkhill, for taking his goods to the value 4()s. from Synkhille. We notice tliat Hunter’s South Yorkshire” makes William present again in 1443, where- as the Visitations speak of his death thirteen years before — i.e.^ a.d. 1421 (8 Hen. 6)1 If the Visita- tions are to be trusted, probably in this presentation, we should read John instead of William, because the York registers prove beyond a doubt that John de Wasteneys gave Hedon a rector Feb. 20, 1428. Moreover, in 1434, he is again returned as Lord of Hedon Manor. By Elizabeth Bussine his wife he left a son and heir, Robert, who married Elizabeth Nelson, daughter of Thomas Nelson, a merchant of the staple residing at York, probably a man of wealth. Robert de Wasteneys certainly presented to Todwick in 1475, and two years later was buried in that church. The stone still remains in the midst of the chancel floor, bearing his arms and this inscription: ‘‘Hie jacet Robertas Wasteneys armiger, qui obiit Vito die Januarii, a.d. 1477. Cuj us animm })ropitietur Dens.” George Wasteneys, Robert’s eldest son, became — by Elizabeth his wife, daughter of Win. Blythe — the father of two sons, the younger named Bartholomew, and the elder AND OF THE DE WA8TENEY.S FAMILY. 425 George, who married Anne, daughter of Sir Richard Basset of Fledboro’, and is no doul)t the same who was patron of Todwick in 1506 a.d. Of his three cliildren l)y xVnne Basset, the daughter named Anne, after her mother, married William Dallison ; Geoffrey, given in another pedigree as Wilfrid, Wasteneys was the 2nd son ; the eldest, George, presented to Hedon in 1548, and liad issue by his wife, Mary Melford, two sons and a daughter — Gervase, John, and Anne Wasteneys. Gervase, the lieir, was living in 1575 a.d. He married Jane, daugliter of Lyon Reresby of Yorkshire, and became the father of Sir Hardolph and of Daniel Wasteneys. A baronetcy was conferred on Sir Hardolph of Hedon, Decbr. 18, 1622, 20 James I. ( Vide Dugdale’s ^ Antient Arms.’) He was twice married — 1st to Jane, daughter of John De la-bogs of Mister- ton, and 2ndly to another Jane, the child of Gervase Lyre of Knighton, Yorkshire. Sir Har- dulph left behind him a family (;onsisting of three sons and five daughters ; tlie eldest, named after his father, was born in 1614. He succeeded to the baronetcy, and died, we believe, in 1649 a.d. Jolin the second son, married an ‘ Ireland ’ of Lan- cashire, and by her had three sons, of whom Edmond, the eldest, was the next baronet. George, the tliird son, died for King Charles I. Of tlie daughters, Anne married John Raynes of East Drayton (Notts); Martlia married Richard Tye of East Retford ; and Jane ]>ecame wife of John Kirke of Eaton ; the two others, Rosamund and Mary, died unmarried. Sir 42(1 SOMK AC(J()i;XT OF (JOL'roX Hardolpli's wiiV, Anne, daughter of* Sir Tliomas Chiclieh'v of Wiin])ole, (Jainl)ridg(;.sliire, liad no children. (Jon8e(|U('ntly Hedon and the titles devolved, as alrcuidy statc'd, on Kdinund, their nephew. Sir Ivhnond Wasteneys niariied Catheiin(‘, daughter and eo-ludress of (yVdonel AVilliain Sandvs of Askhain, and had two ehildren, Catherine, Avife of Kahvard lIut(*hinson, and Sir Ilardolph, who married Judith, daughtcu* of Coloncd Richard John- son of Lincolnshire'. Sir Hardolpli’s dt'atli without issue, in 1742, [lut an end to this last great liranch of the Wastenevs family. Tlu' title', of e'enirse, he'canu' extinct, whilst the' Heelon e'state's [lasse'd tei his sister and her children.* Thus far then for the family of de \A^asteneys, Avhoin wo liaA'e eneleaveiured te) trace in the lines of Cedtem and Tixall, with their i*es])ective Chesliire' anel Neittinghamshire' offsheiots. Before dismissing the suliject alteigether, some few scattered names remain to be noticed, althe)ugh we cannot now rightly determine their ]dace' in the pedigree. Nichols, in his history of Leicestershm', mentions a‘ grant — dated ahout King John’s tinu' — from * Note. — Except for the York Registers, the Laiisdowne and Dodsworth MSS. t-ixtracts, with one or two Plea roll notices, we have been unable to throw new light on the pedigree of the ^ Hedon’ line. It is much to be wished that the present representatives of the Hutchinsoiis would enquire into the '.subject more fully by the aid of their family papers. AXI) OF I'HF DF WASTENEYS FAMILY. 427 William Wastoneys, described ‘'as a son of Walter Wasteneys and Dina his wife.” of a wood and meadow called “ Snape,” to Nicholas de Verdoiy for the erdarging of liis })ark at Belton. We are much temj)ted to suppose there must hv. a misprint her(‘, and that William Wasteneys ought rather to have been styled “ grandson of Dina and of Robert, son of Walter.’ Were this suggestion only ca])able of proof, William’s place in the pedigree would agree' with all that has gone before. In 1406 A.D., one Nicholas de Wasteneys, with Petronilla his wife, conveys to John de Golwych and others a messuage in Morton. A reference of much greater interest is made in 1450 a.d. to Richard Wastnesse, who is urgently sumnujiied into FraiKie, together with Sir Henry Norburv, by King Henry V. Both these men appear to have been veteran soldiers, for a catalogue of Norman, French, and Gascon rolls, formerly in the Tower of London, bearing date January 10, 14f35, that is to say, fifteen years before this urgent summons, contains an ordei* to William Myners, captain of the town of Harefleur, John Cosyn, Viscount D’Arques, and Jolin Chirwvn, lieutenant of Harfleur, to muster the archers and men-at-arms of the retinue of Sir Henry Norbury and Richard Wastnesse, Esqre. Finally, in the following of rlohn de Waterton, a celebrated captain of the time (1450 a.d.) occurs the name of one “ John Wasteneys, malade a Harder.” We should conjecture that both John and Richard were of the Nottinghamshire line. 42(S 80 MK ACCOUN'I’ OF COI/l’ON Keimet Parochial Aiiti(|uities,” speaking’ of Sir John Cornwall, Kt., great grandson (?) of Ricliard Cornwall, who was the illegitimate son of Ivlnumd Earl of Cornwall (28 h]d. L), says that hv married Elizabeth, daughter of Sir John Wastenex s. INDEX. PAGE Abel, John - - 182 Henry - - 324 Acton, Alice de - 24, 27 John, s. of Stephen de - 27, 295 (Trussell) law-suit 27 Admaston - - - 30 Robert de 30, 40 John de - 40 Robert, son of John, s. of Edde,de 205,301 John, s. of John de - - 205 Alcock, John 216, 390 Adyshale, Wm. - - 362 Alewy, Nicholas de -38, 306 Alinor, William • John - 344 - 354 Robert, 7 3, 333, 335 340, 349 Roger 340, 344 Thomas - - 43, 49 Mabel, w. of - 43, 49 Almayne, William le 306 Almar - 5, 153 Almund - 3, 174 Almonds (or Aim, Holme or Aldwine Holm) - 293 Amphelis (v. Wasteneys Andrew, John of Lee 65, 211, 325, 328, 334, 344, 349 Apleton meadow - 304 Appendix (1) of Miscel- laneous Papers about Colton - - 205-246 Appendix(2)of Letters 246-291 Arnald, John - - 159 William - 216 Araz, Richard de - 52 Ashfordby, lands - 17, 18 Arabes - - - 157 Arden, John de - 358 Ash-hurst, John de 305, 306 Ash’s farm - - 149 Ashley-Hay 76, 129, 222, 312 370 Wood - - 75 Assh, Adam, s. of Geoflfrey Atte- 338,342,344 Geoflfrey Atte, 73, 211 212, 316, 321, 323, 328 329, 331, 332, 334, 335 342, 348 John, s. of Adam Atte - - 67 William Atte, 45, 205 304, 307, 309, 311 317, 318, 353 Roger, s. of William Atte - - 45 William, s. of William Atte - - 343 Henry Atte -56, 334 Ric. , s. of Henry Atte 312 Robert, s. of Hugh Atte 309 Assize of Novel Disseisin 40 of D’arrein Present- ment 396 Astelm’s-croft, or Aston- croft, or Asheton Leys, or Ashen-croft, 312, 329 337, 244, 371, 209 Astley, Thomas 113 Aston family, origin of 130 Arms of - 150 Catherine, d. of Sir Ed. 122 Sir Walter, 1st Lord Aston, 12i 126, 127, 130, 131 133, 247, 248, 371 373, 374, 375, 376 Gertrude, w. of 133 225, 226, 227, 230 375, 376, 381, 382 11. INDEX. TAdJi I Herbert, Horible., s. of | 133,138,140-146,147 I 226, 227, 229, 230- | 236, 239, 257, 378 380, 381, 385, 387 | Gertrude, d. of 1st j Lord, 133, 137, 138 ! 229 - 230, 232- 236 ! 379, 380 I John, s. of 1st Lord 133 ! 137, 138, 229-236 ' Katherine, w. of Herbert - 132 Letters of, &c. 141 -145, 248-56, 258 261 Heath, account of 264-280 ! Herbert, family of 145 286 ' John, s. of, 145,148,253 Walter^ 2nd Lord, 132 133, 134, 136, 137 : 238 ; Jewell of, 135, 136 379, 380 : Loan of ? - 238 William - 132, 171 Hevereux - 132 ; Thomas - 374,379 Walter, Honble 387 i Ro^er de 130, 349 j Thomas, s. of 352 [ James, 5th Lord 149 i Honble. Mary ! (Lady Blount) 149 | Honble. Barbara 149 Aston, Estate (act for di- viding) - 149 Attewode, Wm. - 63 Audeley, James de 36 Azeline (Mavesyn) 3,4,6,8,153 Backboke, Sibil 108 Felicia 108 Bagod, Wm. - 27, 33, Wm. Lord of 301 PAGK Bromley, B. 395, 297 Hervey - 22, 30 Sir John, 111, 327, 355 358, 361 Ralph, s. of 345, 351 Sir Hugh 295, 299 Sir William - 299 Richard - 295 John - - 65 Sir Lewes 158, 368 Xtiana - -310, 45 Ric., s, of Hugh 37, 45 Thomas - - 369 Beatrix, w. of Sir John - 158-366 Bagot, Richard, 158,209,366-8 384 John 158, 366, 368 Isabella 158,366,368 Anthony (of Colton) 159-161 Willof - 159-160 Land of - - 209 Ralph - - 67 Ralph, s. of Sir. Ed. 161 Sir Hervey, 161, 381 384, 385 Sir Walter - 161 Bagot, Emma - - 34 Simon, her brother 34 Bagot, of Holedale, Robert 394 Bale, John, rector of Blith- held - - - 118 Baggeley, John - - 210 Bailley, Robert le - 82-84 William le - 101 John, s. of - 101 Ball, Robert - - 209 James - - 209 Banastur, John - 339, 360 Barr, Wm. de - - 307 Henry, b. of - 307 John del - - 324 Barre Moor 119, 368, 370 (v. Mare Park) Bakepuz, Ralph de - 36 Bale, Ralph - - 381 Barton, Julia de- - 49 INDEX. 111 . PAGE Baskerville, Ric., horses of 84 Basset, Alice - - 81 Baxter {i.e. Baker) Petro- nilla le - 82 John le (sen.) - 67 John, son of 67, 211 212, 337 Bellamore (Old House) 147 151, 257, 261, 282, 283 286, 387 Bellamore (meaning of) 143 New House 151 SaletoMr. Oldham 151 To Mr. Horsfall 152 Bear croft - - 209 Bellamore Letters 249-291 Bellamore Lodge 175, 176 Bells (Colton) - - 191 Belton, John - - 366 Beche, Wm. at - - 76 Bentley, Tho. de- - 236 Belunone, Alice - - 314 Betteley, Ric. de rector of Blithfield - - 362 Berleye, Rob. de - 336 Berrington, Mrs. - 260 Bette, Nich. - - 104 J ohn - - 111 Beverley, Wm. de 43, 44 Birchen close - 209, 383 Bishton, Hugh de - 82 Roger de - 311 Ric.de 49,293,317 Ric., rector of Tixall - 414 Blakelake - 305, 346, 359 Blithbury, Nuns of - 324 Prioress - 328 Blithfield, Ric.de, 65, 312, 325 326, 327, 329, 331 332, 339 James de, 40, 303 306, 299, 301 Margery de 305, 331 John de - 331 Ric. de, 65, 312 325, 326, 327,329 331, 332, 339 John, s. of Ric. de, 40, 41, 317 320, 335, 344 Ric., s. of John de. 156, 344, 345 Henry de, clerk 349, 353 Cecily, w. of Richard de 155- 156 Blest, Roger - - 215 John - - 215 Blessed, Wm. le- - 67 Ric. - 327, 67 Blount, Sir John - 113 Sir Walter 149, 150 Family of 150, 151 John - - 369 Blund, Robert - - 293 Blount, Honble. Mary, Lady 149, 150, 151 Arms of - 152 Edward - 151 Bogs (Stockwell Heath) 6, 388 Bole, Hugh le - - 63 Bote, Nich. - - 67 Botte, Wm. and Margt. 333 356 Bottelerie, GeofF. de la 398 Bonel, Hugh - - 42 Agnes, w. of - 42 John - - 42, 56 Roger - - 62 Boughey, Samson, 170, 216 219, 381 George - 210 George 215, 217 Constance - 173 Arms of - 173 Boughey Hall, 167, 168, 169 Family of 170, 171 172, 173 Bradbury, family of - 182 Xtopher - 390 Brassborough manor, 21, 71 104, 392 Brat, H. - - - 209 Hugh - - 293 IV. INDEX. Agnes PAGE 214 William - 214 Thomas 214 14alph 26 Sampson - 381 John le -300, 31, 304 Emma, vv. of - 300 Peter le, 43,298, 306,304 AValter - - 26, 294 Hervey le - - 303 William, s. of Hervey le - 303 William, s of Peter 304 Walerand le 101, 304 Briech-hay - 352, 353 Broke, Wm. Atte - 81 Robert Atte 319, 329 335 Brokescroft - - 319 Bromley, Tho., s. of Rob. de 326, 327 Rob. de, 59, 60, 61 68, 69, 82, 305, 321 Ermentrude, d. of 321, 60, 68, 69 Margery, d. of, 60, 68 69 Felicia, w. of, 61, 321 327 William de (clerk) 338 Brown, Adam - - 340 John - - 311 Burton, Abbey of, 110, 111 113, 117, 118 Butler, Wm. - 210, 369 Nidi. - 216,389 Edward - - 215 Ric. - - 222 Geo. - - 222 Tho. 239, 144, 389 Brosse, or B reuse, Hugh de, 166,296, 299 Brodeholm - - - 320 Burneboc - - - 293 Burdeng, Wm. - - 191 Burton-on-the-Wash - 51 Buckland - - - 209 Brune - - - 21, 34 PAGE Burgh, Ralph de - 38 Burt, Family of - - 175 John Heyliger - 175 Henry - - 175 Butt, of land. “ One furrow up and one down,” is called a bolt ; 6 bolts on stiff land make a butt — it varies on lighter land. Cailley, Adam - - 55 Michael de - 55 Thomas de - 55 Simon de - 55 Calde, Henry de - 314 Caldewell, John de (roll of) 79 Caldona, William de L. Niger 23 Caldewell, Henry de, 63, 211 316 Nicholas - 168 Carter, Henry le - 336 Cawarden, John 368 Caldwell, Springs 209, 370, 383 Calvescroft - - 300 Cantilupe, Nicholas de - 71 Carleby, Manor of 105, 122 121, 392 Lands at 21, 22, 36 ‘ Chantry ’ in Tod wick Church - - - 421 Changworth, John of - 301 Wm. son of 304 Chapell Croft - - 319 Chapel Hill - - 176 Chapell Flatts - - 220 Chaplain, John (an outlaw) 39 Chapel, ancient 176, 177 (Jhartulary (Colton) 291-388 Chaworth, Laurence de 4 20 Cheichok (Henry - 321 or Richard 334, 346 Clechoke, John, s. of Henry 320, 334,343,346 « Henry, s. of Hugh 334 John, s. of John 331 John, s. of Hugh 347 ^ Henry, s. of 347 INDKX. V PAGE j Chetwinde, Adam de 65, 335 i Adam, son of 65, 409 J ohn, s. of Adam 184, 343 Rose, w. of- - 184 Eva, de -84, 349 i Sir William, s. of Adam, 45, 3 18, 319 I 348, 63, 122, 352,355 i Adam, his brotlier319 | Sir Philip 311, 396 Isabella, w. of Wm. de - 65 Chetwynd, Mr. - 238, 239 j , Win. of Rugeley I 385, 387 I Sir John - 78 | Clarell, Sir Thomas - 361 i Eliz., d. of - 361 I Margaret - 114 ! Arms of - 114 I Clerk, Wm., parson of | Colton- 99, 100, 107 i John 108, 360, 362, 369 Wm. le - - 69 Clerkship, origin of, un- certain - - - 195 Clerkson, John, 356, 360, 362 369 Cold Welle, Henry de, 322, 326 328, 329, 331 Colier, Hugh le - 335 Thomas - - 387 Colemon’s Moor - - 352 Colemon, Geoff. - 82, 353 Henry, 61, 108, 211 212, 304, 323, 327 332, 334, 414 William - 337 Richard - 340 Colette-Flats - - 349 Colet (of Newlands) Ric., 320 324, 330, 332, 335, 336 337, 346 Wm., bro. of 324, 61 Robert 61, 323, 321 Colet - - 305, 306 Colet, Emma, w. of - 321 Sibilla, w. of R. - 61 Roger - - 61 Colton - - - 3-4 Derivation of - 204 Manor of, 217, 367, 379 380, 387 Market - - 30, 31 Free Warren - 35 Waste Inclosure Act 181 Eccles, census of 182 Population of 182, 183 Colton Church - 184-194 Right of Sanctuary 38 Rectors of - 196-200 Church Goods (Ed. 6) 192 Registers - 192 Chapel of Virgin, in 194 Visitation at - 204 Colton Hall (old) 126-128 Sale of, to Sir W- Aston - - 125 Sale of, by 2nd Lord Aston 139, 140 Money Levied on (Civil War) 138 Old Park (v. Park) 36,126,98? Colton House - - 174 Colton, Gerald de - 15 Thomas de - 16 Hugh, s. of Tho., 14, 15 31, 168, 294, 297, 300 301, 308 H enry, s. of Hugh de 43, 44,46,61,206, 207 307,312, 317, 343,315 Avice, d. of - 312 Robert, s. of Hugh, Kt. 45, 50, 323? 315 Amice, w. of - 45 Robert, son of Henry de, 49, 92, 304, 314 315, 317 Sibell, his w. - 92 William, s. of Robert de - - 91, 92 VI. INDEX. PAGE Ric., s. of Rob de Chaplain - 68, 98 J ohn, s. of Hugh de 168, 315 Ric., s. of Henry de 315 Henry, s. of Henry 168 Juliana, d. of Margery, d. of Rob , s. of Hugh 07 Richard, the priest of - - 14, 15 John, s. of Walter de, 205, 304, 311, 313 314, 318 Robert, s. of John, s. of Walter de, 314 316, 320, 326, 328, 329-332,334,335,338 339 Rob., s. of Walter de 327, 335 Gilbert de ( M avesyn?)4 1 William, s. of - 4 1 John, s. of Wm. 4 4 Peter, s. of Wm., s. of Gilbert de- 314 Nicholas de - 39 Xtiana, w. of - 39 John, s. of Juliana 66 William de - 67 Margaret, \v. of 67 Juliana, w.of Henry de - - 50 William (Godwin ?) chaplain of - 348 William, s. of Roger de - - 205 Thomas, s. of Renner de - - 55 Nicholas, s. of Ric. de - - 56 Adam, s of John, s. of Walter de- 56 Stephen de- - 74 John, s. of Stephen de - - 74 Geoffrey de ) see Warin de | Griffyn. Cote, Ric. - 334 PAGE Corning - - - 183 Colwell - - - 293 Colwych, or Roger de - 293 Colwiz, Geoffrey de - 293 Adam, the priest of 294, 295 Adam de, 44, 297, 298 306, 317, 318 Elias de - - 27 Johnde, 295,317,360 363 Richard de - 103 Thomas and Xtopher 122 Thomas de - 352 Cotteholm Field - 343 Coneygreave - - 209 Costentin, Roger- - 26 Counter, John le, 42, 45, 48, 211, 307, 312, 322, 331 Matilda, w. of - 45 John, s. of John le 72 William le - 48, 56 Meaning of - 56 Coventry and Lichfield, Bp. of Alexander 294 Geoffrey Bp. 292 Roger Bp. - 76 Cook, John, of Bromley 104, 349, 356 Cradok, Robert 43, 312 Thomas 337, 338 Marg. w. of - 338 William, 65, 211, 212 320, 328, 332,334, 335 337 Margery, w. of, 332 337 Cranwicke - - - 55 Cressewell - 305 Croftes, The - 340, 347 Cuyly, land of - - 347 Cumyn, Tho., Vicar of Colwich - - - 167 H’arrein Presentment - 396 Davy, Tho. - - 112 INDEX. Vll. PAGE Day-vvall-sych - - 76 Degge, Whitehall - 172 Sir Simon, 133, 144 172, 238 Petition of -172-3 Simon Boughey 172,238 Constance - 172 Despencer, Ric. le - 41 Mar •Sni-' : V i .!■' *- Jj >!