Winslow in the 17th-18th Centuries

This page contains information about events in Winslow in the 17th-18th Centuries. More contributions welcome!

Grant by James I to Francis and John Fortescue enabling them to alienate the manor to Timothy Cartwright and Francis Curson, 1 April 1613

Taken from a free translation by Arthur Clear (1894, 38-9). The document is signed by Francis Bacon, Attorney General. This was part of the dispute between the Fortescues and their tenants, 1603-13.

Know ye that we of our especial favour, and for £11 13s 4d paid into our Treasury, have by virtue of our letters patent, granted and given licence, and for ourselves, our heirs and successors, as far as in us lies, do grant and give licence to our beloved and faithful Francis Fortescue, Knight, and our beloved John Fortescue, Esquire, son and heir apparent of the aforesaid Francis Fortescue, to enable and empower them to give and grant, alienate, and demise, the Manor of Winslowe, Shypton, Greneburrowe, and Horwood Parva, with all that appertains and belongs to the same, in our County of Buckingham, which they hold from us in chief, (as it is termed), either by the agent of our Court before our Justices of the King's Bench, or in any other manner whatever, at the will of these our beloved Francis and John, to Timothy Cartwright (gentleman), and Francis Curson (gentleman), to have and to hold by the same Timothy Cartwright and Francis Curson, and the heirs and assigns of the same Timothy, for the use of the aforesaid Francis Fortescue, for the term of his natural life without impediment; and after the decease of the same Francis Fortescue, for the use of the before mentioned John Fortescue, and his heirs and assigns, to hold of us, our heirs and successors as is due and according to law. And to the same Timothy Carwright and Francis Curson, to empower them to receive the aforesaid Manor from the before-mentioned Francis and John Fortescue, and to hold the same for themselves, and the heirs and assigns of the same Timothy, for the use of the aforesaid of us, our heirs and successors on the terms aforesaid, in accordance with the tenour of these presents we have given …

Purchase of the manor by George Villiers, 1619

British Library, Add.Ch. 53938 (summarised below; original in English)

Indenture made 26 June 17/52 James between
1. Rt Hon. George Marquis of Buckingham
2. Sir Francis Fortescue of Salden, Knight of the Bath

They have by articles of 18 June agreed that Buckingham shall purchase for £4,500 the Mannor of Wynslowe, Shipton, Little Horwood and Grandborowe, the woods called Abbotts Woods, the reversion of the parsonage of Wynslowe, and one cottage within the Abbotts Woods. Fortescue has received £1,000 this day.

Fortescue, by a statute of the Staple of the same date taken before Hon. Sir Henry Hubbert, Chief Justice of the Common Pleas, is bounden to Buckingham in £2,000 to be paid as by the same Recognizance more at large appeareth. Buckingham grants that if Fortescue shall well and truly perform the tenure and effects of the articles, and shall make unto him a good and perfect estate in law of all such lands and other particulars in the articles mentioned, void of all incumbrances, or for default of such good assurance repay unto him £1,000 at the hall of the Middle Temple at or before 2 Dec next, the Recognizance shall be void.

Buckingham had already been given the manors of Whaddon, Water Eaton and Biddlesden and Whaddon Chase by James I in 1616-17 (his first title was Baron Whaddon). Perhaps he had plans to buy up estates in Bucks to go with his title of Earl / Marquis / Duke of Buckingham, but he didn't get further than the manor of Winslow. The transaction is also recorded in the Feet of Fines (National Archives, CP25/2/275/17JASIHIL) (translated from Latin):

This is the final concord made in the King’s court at Westminster in the Octaves of St Hillary 17/53 James [1620] … between George Marquis of Buckingham querent and Francis Fortescue knight, Grace his wife & John Fortescue esquire & Frances his wife deforciants of the manors of Winslow, Greenborough alias Greeneburghe, Shipton & Little Horwood with appurtenances, and of 40 messuages, 10 cottages, 30 gardens, 20 orchards, 500 acres of land, 100 acres of meadow, 120 acres of pasture, 400 acres of wood & 100 acres of furze & heath with appurtenances in Winslowe, Greenboroughe alias Greeneburghe, Shipton, Little Horwood, Northmerston, Ovinge & Whaddon and also of the rectory of Winslowe with appurtenances, whereof a plea of agreement was summoned between them in the same court, namely that Francis & Grace & John & Frances acknowledge the said manors, holdings and rectory with appurtenances to be the Marquis’ rights and that which the Marquis has as their gift.  And they have remised & quitclaimed for themselves & their heirs to the Marquis & his heirs forever.  And furthermore Francis & Grace have granted for themselves & Francis’ heirs that they guarantee to the Marquis & his heirs the manors, holdings and rectory with appurtenances against the said Francis & Grace & Francis’ heirs forever.  And lastly John & Frances have granted for themselves & John’s heirs that they guarantee to the Marquis & his heirs the manors, holdings and rectory with appurtenances against John & Frances & John’s heirs forever.  And for this acknowledgment, quitclaim, guarantee, fine & concord the Marquis has given to Francis & Grace & John & Frances £600 sterling.

1st proclamation 12 Feb Hilary Term 17 James.  2nd proclamation 19 May Easter Term 18 James.  3rd proclamation 28 June Trinity Term 18 James.  4th proclamation 25 Oct Michaelmas Term 18 James.

Apprenticeship agreements in London

It was a common practice for Winslow families to send their younger sons to London. That was how William Lowndes made his fortune. The following list is taken from transcriptions of the London Livery Company Apprenticeship Registers, and from https://www.londonroll.org/. Dates are given 'new style'.

Date Apprentice Father (of Winslow, unless stated) Master Company
11 Aug 1569 John Hurles William, husbandman Thomas Newam, turned over to Thomas Hasilwood, 28 Apr 1573 Brewers
6 Dec 1613 Joseph Lownes Thomas, clerk, Swanbourne [Vicar 1578-1624] Peter Jackson Vintners
16 April 1619 Peter Michell Nicholas, yeoman Arthure Trobridge Goldsmiths
2 June 1624 William Jackson not given - from Winslow? Stephen Jackson Vintners
12 Apr 1632 William Snakestone Robert, butcher William Fisher Butchers
5 Sep 1632 William Shilburne Thomas, merchant tailor Peter Weston Vintners
7 Feb 1637 Nicholas Brinsall Nicholas, shoemaker Richard Shorte Clothworkers
16 Mar 1643 Thomas Hogsone Richard Robert Goodman Pewterers
20 Feb 1646 Francis Seare Abel, grocer Daniel Bancks Turners
n.d., 1646 George Barrell[?] William, husbandman, (dec.) William Saunderson Paviours
18 Dec 1656 Abel Seares Abel, grocer John Bolton Brewers
7 June 1659 Thomas Pime Henry, innkeeper Samuel Turner Vintners
13 March 1663 Nicholas Wyatt Henry, grazier Thomas Ballett Goldsmithgs
10 Nov 1664 William Porter Ralph, yeoman William Howson [free] Curriers
18 Dec 1666 John Allen John, yeoman John Whatcott Fishmongers
17 Jun 1669 John Clenster Thomas, 'Wincley', weaver William Payne Butchers
25 Aug 1669 John Glennister John, clothworker Richard Rooke Distillers
23 May 1679 William Townsend William of Shipton, yeoman John Allen Pewterers
10 Sep 1679 William Glenester Thomas, weaver (dec.) Richard Sheefeild Armourers & Brasiers
5 Aug 1680 Robert Bowyer John, labourer John Moore, turned over to Elizabeth Marston Carmen
6 Apr 1682 William Miller Michael [=Nicholas?], butcher Ralph Twyford Butchers
7 Nov 1683 William Wyatt Robert, yeoman William Wyatt Butchers
23 Aug 1686 John Dimock ..., maltster Richard Purchase Woolmen
10 Nov 1686 William Gibbs Robert, yeoman John Mayne Butchers
15 Nov 1686 Benjamin Wyatt Henry, butcher Samuel Pigeon Butchers
5 May 1687 William Dandridge Joseph, gentleman Roger Hill Blacksmiths
13 June 1688 Thomas Jones Thomas, clerk (dec.) John Bayley Vintners
9 Jan 1690 Joseph Miller Nicholas, butcher Jeremy Clarke Butchers
31 Oct 1692 Edward Bowyer John, labourer (dec.) John Bowyer Carmen
3 Jan 1693 John Crofts Thomas, doctor in physic Charles West Apothecaries
5 Dec 1693 Edward Bowler Charles of Shipton, yeoman Hugh Tomlins Blacksmiths
1 Apr 1697 George Elliott George of Shipton, yeoman Edmund Sollers Wyredrawers
21 Jan 1698 John Hogson John, yeoman William Stonnell Salters
14 Feb 1700 Thomas Benbow Richard, joiner William Hebbs [4 May 1702 turned over to John Perkins] Turners
7 Jul 1705 Francis George Thomas, gardener Thomas Peck Cutlers
26 Nov 1705 Thomas White Thomas, currier (dec.) James Parsons Curriers
27 Sep 1705 John Elliott George of ?Shipton, yeoman [transcribed as Slapton] Thomas Penn Armourers
7 Oct 1706 Chard Ace?? [?East] David, baker Richard Collier Tallow Chandlers
12 Nov 1706 Joseph Dandridge Francis, cordwainer John Knapp jr Vintners
6 Oct 1707 Robert Elliott George, yeoman John Biddle Founders
5 Aug 1708 Richard Croft John, clerk John Gerrard Ironmongers
6 July 1708 John Rodes William, glazier (dec.) Samuel Mackerell Vintners
7 Feb 1710 Francis Budd Philip, butcher Thomas Potts Butchers
14 Nov 1716 Henry Wyatt William, of Shipton, butcher Thomas Woodstock Butchers
14 Nov 1717 John Parradian John Thomas Wood Carmen
11 Dec 1717 Edward Parradian John Susanna Rousam widow [19 Apr 1719 turned over to George Wray; 9 Nov 1719 to Margaret Wyatt] Carmen
3 Dec 1718 Joseph Turner [Joseph], surgeon Lawrence Gregory Vintners
10 Nov 1720 John Cooke William, Shipton John Seamore Carmen
14 Feb 1722 Robert Parradine John, of Shipton William Mitchell Carmen
16 Dec 1723 Thomas Brittain James, yeoman William Sturch Fishmongers
6 Feb 1724 Richard Seaton Augustine, brewer Nicholas Courtney Blacksmiths
25 Jun 1724 Stephen Bigg Christopher, smith Thomas Hawkins Masons
11 Sep 1724 John Grimes John, clerk John Hamnett Tallow Chandlers
7 July 1730 William Turner Joseph, surgeon John Derrick Garnum Apothecaries
made free 6 Nov 1733 Benjamin Bailey Philip, collar maker John Barnes Turner Carpenters
9 Oct 1735 Thomas Forster Thomas, grocer Paul Mitchell [15 Oct 1741 turned over to William Cooch] Pewterers
5 April 1743 John Worsley
made free 3 July 1750		 John, carpenter John Seagood Carpenters
4 Nov 1746 Philip Bailey John, collar maker Benjamin Bailey Carpenters
13 Nov 1747 Samuel Holmes ...., victualler Nathaniel Perkins Tallow Chandlers
1 Nov 1748 Thomas Morris
made free 6 Jan 1756		 James, perrywigg maker Benjamin Bailey Carpenters
4 Sep 1750 Richard Worsley
made free 7 Nov 1758		 John, carpenter John Worsley Carpenters
9 Dec 1756 William Morris William, shoemaker John Thorpe Glaziers
4 Oct 1757 Christopher Biggs Joseph, carpenter Richard Starr Carpenters
6 Dec 1757 George Worsley John, carpenter John Worsley Carpenters
19 Jul 1759 John Cox Richard, labourer Joseph Hill Grocers
1 April 1760 Stephen Bigg Joseph, sawyer, decd Richard Starr Carpenters
2 Oct 1760 William Turner John, surgeon Thomas Pocklington Butchers
7 Dec 1762 Anthony Scott
made free 5 Dec 1769		 Richard, carpenter Thomas Morris Carpenters
7 Feb 1771 Edward Gurney Thomas, farmer Oliver Brooks Butchers
14 Apr 1772 Robert Whiteover William, labourer George Harlow Tallow Chandlers
1 Jul 1773 Henry Dimmocke John, labourer Peter Stuchbury [4 Aug 1774 turned over to William Lambert; 7 Dec 1775 to Theophilus Pomeroy] Butchers
5 Aug 1777 Thomas Eden Robert, cordwainer Anthony Scott Carpenters
2 July 1782 George Hanley
[=Hawley?]		 George, farmer Anthony Scott Carpenters
29 Sep 1784 William Clark John Jeremiah Percy Plumbers

See also: Register of stamp duty on apprentices' indentures 1711-1808

Manor Court records

The manor of Winslow passed from Sir John Fortescue (d.1607) to his son Francis, who sold it in 1619 to George Villiers, Marquis (later Duke) of Buckingham. After his assassination in 1628 it was held by his widow Katherine (d.1649), from 1635 with her second husband, Randal McDonnell, Earl (later Marquis) of Antrim. In a document of 1638, there are also listed as lords of the manor Philip Earl of Pembroke & Montgomery (1584-1650, a friend of Buckingham's), Sir Robert Pye of Westminster (1585-1662, Buckingham's executor) and George Feildinge of London (probably the brother-in-law of Buckingham's sister Susan); these three men were probably trustees appointed when Katherine remarried.

12 Sep 1638
Centre for Bucks Studies, D175/2 [Translated from Latin]

To this court came Peter Fige gent, bailiff of the manor, and Elizabeth his wife and Peter Fige gent his son and heir apparent and Martha his wife (Elizabeth and Martha were examined by the Seneschal) and surrendered into the lord’s hands through the Seneschal’s all the capital messuage in which Peter and his wife now dwell and four closes of pasture in Winslow, of which one is called the Great Close, another Hobhutchin Close, another Rose Close and another Pondclose in all containing 15 acres of pasture, and a windmill, and all their customary lands in the parish of Winslow containing by estimate 63 acres of arable land, leys and meadow, to the following separate uses:  half the messuage, namely the great chamber, storeroom [aula promptuar’] and the Milkhowse with chamber over, one bay of barn at the north end, and half the garden adjoining the messuage extending to the White Bullis Tree with one part of the outer hedge[?] in width from the bay to the window of the hall and extending to the upper corner of the gardin hedge next to the pond in the hall [iuxta stagnu’ in Atrio] and 50 acres of land, meadow and pasture lying scattered in Winslow, lately in the tenure and occupation of Thomas Hogson and John Seaton and now of John Seaton (except for free ingress egress and regress for Peter jr and Martha, their servants and workers and carts and carriages) to the use of Peter sr and Elizabeth for their life, with reversion to Peter jr and Martha, or in default of heirs to Valentine Fige.  The residue of the messuage and land to the use of Peter jr and Martha.

George Kirbey and Mary his wife surrendered one bay of structure situate in the Sheep street of Winslow containing 15 feet in length and 16 feet in width, and a parcel of land on the "backside" adjoining the bay containing 14 feet in length and 16 feet in width as now divided. To the use of John Bedles. Rent 2d, fine 5s.
John Bedles and Elizabeth his wife then surrendered to the use of Maurice Griffith clerk, on condition that the surrender will be void if John pays 20s on 14 Sep 1639, 1640, 1641, 1642 and 1643 and £16 on 14 Sep 1644 at the south porch of the church of East Cleydon. Rent 2s, fine 5s.

24 Sep 1639
British Library, Add.Ch.53942 [Translated from Latin]

To this court came Robert Wallis, clerk, and Hester his wife (who was examined alone and secretly by the Seneschal of the manor) and in full court surrendered into the lord's hands through the hands of the Seneschal a messuage or tenement containing three bays of structure situate in Winslow, now in the tenure of Robert Holt, to the benefit and use of Richard Hodgkin and his heirs forever. And now to the court came Richard and sought to be admitted to the premisses. Seisin was granted by the Seneschal to Richard Hodgkin and his heirs, to hold by rod at the lord's will, according to the custom of the manor, for an annual rent of 13½d, suit at court, heriot and other previously due and accustomed services. And he paid the lord as a fine 5s and 2s 6d for heriot by composition, and he did fealty.
By William Rushton, deputy of Richard Lane, Seneschal.

9 Oct 1646
British Library, Add.Ch.53944 [Translated from Latin]

It was found at the court held on 29 April 1645 by the homage on oath that previous to the court John Snow, lying on his deathbed, surrendered into the hands of the lord through the hands of William Norman and John Sheffeild, two customary tenants of the manor, outside the court according to the custom of the manor: one messuage and all his customary lands in the fields of Shipton, containing by estimate 28 acres, for the benefit and use of Joan Snow, then his wife, and Alice Snow then wife of Richard Snow, for the term of their lives and the life of the one living longer, and after their decease to the use of John Snow, son of the aforesaid Richard Snow and Alice, and his heirs in perpetuity. To that court came the aforesaid Alice and was admitted to the premisses to hold according to the surrender, and afterwards she died. And hence to this court came the aforesaid Joan and sought to be admitted, and seisin was granted to her for the term of her natural life, with reversion to John Snow and his heirs, to hold by rod at the lord's will according to the custom of the manor, through rendering suit at court, heriot, and other previously due and rightly accustomed services. She paid the lord as a fine £2 16s, and as heriot one cow worth £1 6s 8d was paid at the death of John Snow. And she did fealty.
By William Rushton, Seneschal.
[on front] Maynes Estate.

The list of delinquents sequestered by the Bucks County Committee, 29 May 1647 (quoted by Ian Beckett, Wanton Troopers (2015), p.84) includes Richard Snow who held a small estate in reversion in Winslow and Shipton. John Snow's property arrangements must be connected to this: he excluded Richard (presumably his son) either because of political differences or to protect the property from imminent confiscation.

23 April 1647
British Library, Add.Ch.53945 [Translated from Latin]

To this court came Valentine Fige, gent., and Peter Fige junior, gent., Bailiff of the manor, and Martha his wife, who was examined alone and secretly according to the custom of the manor, and in full court surrendered into the lord's hands through the hands of the Seneschal of the manor all the eastern part or half of an enclosure of pasture in Winslow called the Rose Close next to the highway towards the east, as it is now divided from the other part, containing by estimate 2½ acres of land, to the benefit and use of Richard Hodgkyn and his heirs forever. Richard was present in court and sought to be admitted to the premisses. Seisin was granted to Richard Hodgkin and his heirs, to hold by rod at the lord's will, according to the custom of the manor, for an annual rent of 15d, suit at court, heriot and other previously due and accustomed services. And he paid the lord as a fine 5s and heriot when it arises. There was no heriot in this case because they hold other lands. And he (RH) did fealty.
By William Rushton, Seneschal.

Rose Close was on the north side of what is now Verney Road.

The following documents have been summarised.

27 Oct 1650
British Library, Add.Ch.53946 [Translated from Latin]
Anthony Holden and Mary his wife surrendered 2 acres of land in Old Mill Furlonge, Winslow, to Richard Hodgkins and his heirs. Rent: 6d p.a. Fine: 4s. Heriot: 2s. By Oliver Lawrence, steward.

14 Nov 1651
British Library, Add.Ch.53947
Court Baron of Rt.Hon. Major-General Phillipp Skippon
William Lowndes, gent., surrendered "One Messuage commonly called the Angell in Winslowe and a Close thereunto belonginge called Albons Close and Ninety & three acres of land arrable pasture and meadowe thereto belonginge (except sixe acres which are now in the possession and occupation of Thomas Pitkin)".

Fine: £8 13s. No heriot. Rent: 16s 9d p.a. By OIiver Lawrence, steward.

Philip Skippon (d.1660) acquired the manor after the death of the Duchess of Buckingham. According to his ODNB entry, "When the so-called delinquent or royalist estates came onto the market in 1651 Skippon purchased the manors of Bletchley, Whaddon, Eaton, and Winslow in Buckinghamshire, but then sold them off in small parcels to the tenants." He was a leading officer in the Parliamentary Army, and in action at Boarstall in 1645. He was commander-in-chief of the forces around London during the Commonwealth. In his will (National Archives, PROB 11/300, 21 Feb 1659/60), Philip Skippon referred to an annual payment of £3 6s 8d to the poor of Winslow forever, which was to continue to be paid by his son Philip from the manors of Eaton and Bletchley.

27 Oct 1653
British Library, Add.Ch.53948
Court Baron of Rt.Hon. Major-General Phillipp Skippon
Nicholas Sponer surrendered "a Messuage with thappurtenances wherein he nowe dwelleth Thomas Snow (being on the) east" and 4 score acres of land in the fields of Winslowe and Granborowe. To the use of William Sponer and his heirs forever. Fine: £8. No heriot. By Oliver Lawrence, steward.

This appears to have been a marriage settlement in favour of Nicholas's son William Spooner.

17 Oct 1655
British Library, Add.Ch.53949
View of Frankpledge and Court Baron of Rt.Hon. Major-General Phillipp Skippon, "one of the Counsell of his highnes the Lord Protector".
Robert Lowndes, who held one cottage "att the townesend in Winslowe" has died. Robert Lowndes his grandson is his heir. Fine: 5s. No heriot. By Oliver Lawrence, steward.

7 Oct 1657
British Library, Add.Ch.53950
View of Frankpledge and Court Baron of John Bouden, William Coleman and Michaell Norman, lords of the manor, held by Francis Clerke, gent., steward. Robert Elliott surrendered one acre "in a furlong called Ryefurlonge, John Robinson lyinge North", to Thomas Grant otherwise Miller. Fine: 2s. Rent: 5[?]d p.a.
Note: "This came after to Mr Halfpenny"

The three men named here as lords of the manor had evidently purchased it from Philip Skippon.

7 Oct 1657
British Library, Add.Ch.53951
John Sheiffeild and Mary his wife surrendered "Fower ridges of land lyinge in a Feild called Redfeild & in a furlonge called Morefurlonge the land of John Miller south & Richard Bingly north & alsoe one headland lyinge at the west end of the sayd Ridges the land of Thomas Halloway west", estimated at 1 acre. Granted to Richard Phipps. Fine: 2s. Rent: 3d p.a.

6-8 & 29 Sep 1658
British Library, Add.Ch.53952
View of Frankpledge and Court Baron of John Bouden, William Coleman and Michaell Norman, lords of the manor, held by Francis Clerke, gent., steward. John Miller and Judith his wife mortgaged 15 acres of land to Rebecca Gerrard, widow, for £118, to be repaid: £3 on Lady Day 1659, £3 more at Michaelmas, £3 on Lady Day 1660, £3 more at Michaelmas, £3 on Lady Day 1661, £103 to be paid in Winslow church porch at Michaelmas 1661. Details of the land:

5 Oct 1659 & 27 March 1660
British Library, Add.Ch.53953
View of Frankpledge and Court Baron of John Bouden, William Coleman and Michaell Norman, lords of the manor, held by Francis Clerke, gent., steward. Robert Lounds the younger and Elizabeth his wife surrendered 1 acre of land consisting of 2 ridges in Winslow "lyinge at the Worge[?] in Demeram feild the Licaresland[?] lyinge one the west parte thereof". Granted to William Smyth alias Cave, son and heir apparent of Thomas Smyth alias Cave, aged 4. "The Court hath elected Thomas Smyth alias Cave his father to be his gardian". Fine: 2s. Rent: 3d.

This odd transaction (why didn't Thomas Smyth take the land himself?) was perhaps a legal device to enable him to get custody of his son.

5 Oct 1659 & 27 March 1660
British Library, Add.Ch.53954
View of Frankpledge and Court Baron of John Bouden, William Coleman and Michaell Norman, lords of the manor, held by Francis Clerke, gent., steward. John Miller mortgaged 11 acres of land in Shipton to Christopher Rooks the elder of Calverton through his deputy Oliver Laurence [formerly steward of Winslow] for £59, to be repaid in Calverton church porch: 30s next Michaelmas; 30s on 29 March 1661; 30s the following Michaelmas; 30s on 29 March 1662; 30s the following Michaelmas; £51 10s on 29 March 1663. Details of the land:

5 Oct 1659 & 27 March 1660
British Library, Add.Ch.53955
Same courts. Thomas Miller mortgaged various property to Christopher Rooks the elder of Calverton for £177, to be repaid in Calverton church porch: £4 10s next Michaelmas; £4 10s on 28 March 1661; £4 10s the following Michaelmas; £4 10s on 28 March 1662; £4 10s the following Michaelmas; £154 10s on 28 March 1663. Fine 19s[?], annual rent 2s[?] 4½d.

On the verso is a statement by Christopher Rooks the younger dated 8 Jan 1671 guaranteeing to Sir John Busby of Addington that neither he nor his father had granted any estate or title in the property to anyone else.

Later in 1660, following the restoration of the monarchy, the manor was returned to George Villiers, 2nd Duke of Buckingham (d.1687). A court of survey held on 8 Oct 1660 gives some details of the manor as it was then. He sub-let the manor and rectory for a year to Charles Tyrrill of Whaddon (29 April 1661, BRS5 p.96). Buckingham's estates were administered by trustees from 1671 as part of his very complicated financial arrangements.

18 Oct 1672 (Centre for Bucks Studies, BAS 376/22 no.23)
View of Frankpledge with court baron of Rt Hon. Anthony Earl of Shaftesbury, Hon. Thomas Osborne Barr, Sir Robert Murray and John Tillotson D.D., fiduciaries of George Duke of Buckingham, by Edmund West jr esq. steward.
Edmund Sharrocke clerk [rector of Great Horwood] and Susanna his wife sought to be admitted tenants according to the form of an out of court surrender on 22 April last through the steward by John Snow of Sinckleborough in the parish of Great Horwood, a customary tenant, of all his messuage and close in Shipton and 28 acres of arable land, meadow and pasture in Winslow and Shipton. Rent 7s, fine 2s 6d, heriot by composition 12s 6d.
[Document endorsed: "The coppy of my Land at Shipton bought of John Snow. Surr to Sharrock. Maynes Estate"]

There were different trustees in 1675:

16 April 1675 (Centre for Bucks Studies, BAS 376/22 no.30)
View of Frankpledge with court baron of Sir Robert Clayton, Thomas Spratt D.D., John Wildman and Matthew Clifford, by Edmund West jr esq. steward.
Daniel Seare out of court on 16 Oct last surrendered through Peter Stutsbury and John Henly a cottage in Winslow now in the occupation of Widow Allen with chorte[?], gardens, barns, buildings and structures, and 3½ acres in the fields of Winslow:
In Oldmill feild in Rey furlong 1 selion and 1 picke, the land of George Elliott south; in Maracre furlong 3 selions containing 1 acre, the land of Edmund Paxton on both sides.
In Newmill feild in Over Westerne furlong 3 selions, the land of Richard Udding east.
To the use of Abell Seare and Thomas Seare son(s?) of Abell Seare late of Winslow deceased, on condition that if they neglect or refuse to pay to Daniel's wife Mary Seare £20 within one month of Daniel's death, the premisses are to be to the use of Mary. With Daniel dead and the money paid, Abell and Thomas sought to be admitted tenants. Rent 10½d, fine 7s. [Abel sold the property to William Lowndes in 1681, "saving the right of Mary Saier in the barn and garden for her life" (ibid no.51), and William Lowndes paid Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas Saier deceased, £50 1s to quitclaim the property.]

11 Oct 1675 (Centre for Bucks Studies, BAS 376/22 no.31) [same trustees etc.]
On the last day of August last, William Burt and Elizabeth his wife surrendered separate pieces of land in Shipton: 2 acres in Blackgrove Feild, 3 half-acres in Redfeild, 3 half-acres in Licehill Feild, and common of pasture for 5 cows. To the use of Edmund Sharrocke of Great Horwood, clerk, and Susanna his wife for their lives, then Edmund's heirs. Rent 1s 3d, fine 10s, heriot by composition 7s 6d.

On 21 July 1679 the Buckingham trustees leased the manor of Winslow to Nicholas Goodwin of Hammersmith. In 1694 Goodwin and his wife Priscilla sub-let the manor for a year to Morris Emmett the elder of St. Margaret's, Westminster, gent, Richard Goodwin of Chiswick, gent, and Henry Emmett of London, millener. Goodwin and his son Nicholas sold it to William Lowndes in 1697 under the terms of a private act of Parliament. The entries below concern purchases of land and buildings by William Lowndes prior to the building of Winslow Hall. Note that parts of the open fields had gone out of arable use by this time.

27 April 1694
British Library, Add.Ch.53985
View of Frankpledge and Court Baron held by James Hayes, seneschal of Nicholas Goodwin, gent.
Robert Mitchell surrendered 2½ acres of land or meadow in Demeram Field, adjoining 12 acres of Mr Willmott[?] on the south and the land of Thomas Hogg on the west. Granted to William Lowndes of Westminster, gent., through his attorney Richard Phipps. Fine 5s. Signed by Nicholas Merwin, deputy seneschal.

Robert Scott and Anne his wife, Benjamin Scott and Elizabeth his wife and William Gyles junior surrendered about 5 acres called Coldrum Close, with the land of Robert Wyatt on the south and the land of Mr Merwin on the north. Granted to William Lowndes of Westminster, gent., through his attorney Richard Phipps. Fine 10s. Signed by Nicholas Merwin, deputy seneschal.

9 July 1694
View of Frankpledge and Court Baron held by Nicholas Merwin, deputy seneschal of Nicholas Goodwin, gent.
Richard Wootton and Abisia his wife surrendered a messuage in the Sheep Street occupied by Richard Wootton, with the messuage and postern gate of John Chandler to the east, messuage and postern gate of William French to the west, with 9 lands containing about 3 acres adjoining the premises, and the reversion on death or remarriage of the adjoining messuage occupied by Hannah Brandford. Granted to William Lowndes of Westminster, gent., through his attorney Richard Phipps. Fine 10s.

25 April 1698
British Library, Add.Ch.53986
View of Frankpledge and Court Baron of Charles Twitten and Samuel Brewster gent, fiduciaries of William Lowndes, held by Nicholas Merwin, deputy seneschal.
The jurors presented that Thomas Willmott of Stepney, Middlesex, weaver, brother and heir of William Willmott, deceased, who was eldest son and heir of Thomas Willmott of Whitchurch, tailor, deceased, along with Thomas Simpson of Stepney, tailor, and Hester his wife (examined by William Cherry esq., chief seneschal), on 14 April surrendered a tenement in or near the Sheepstreete then or lately occupied by William Daniell, with yard and garden, and 2½ acres of meadow or pasture in Demeram Field near the meadow which William Lowndes acquired from Robert Mitchell deceased, and 2 acres of arable land in the common field of Winslow occupied by William Short, and all Thomas Willmott's customary lands within the manor. Granted to William Lowndes.

Richard Whitehead and Anne his wife and William Short surrendered a messuage in or near the Sheepe Street now or lately occupied by William Daniell (other details as above). Granted to William Lowndes for rent of 1s 1½d p.a. and fine of 9s.

Richard Letman and Anne his wife and Thomas his son surrendered a piece of land previously acquired from Robert Gibbs and Rose his wife , with the land on which a house now stands of lately stood, containing ⅓ acre. Granted to William Lowndes for rent of 1d p.a. and fine of 8d.

Henry Hughes and Elizabeth his wife surrendered a tenement in the Sheepestreete adjoining the lane called Astons Lane, and a selion with a small piece of land containing ½ acre in Old Mill Feild in Alderswell furlong. Granted to William Lowndes for rent of 2½d p.a. and fine of 5s.

William Lowndes continued to accumulate land; see his notebook and roll for more details.

4, 13 & 16 Oct 1701
British Library, Add.Ch.53987
View of Frankpledge and Court Baron of Charles Twitten gent., fiduciary supervisor of William Lowndes Esq., held by Nicholas Merwin gent., deputy seneschal.
Richard Martin of Southwarke clerk, Charles Shales of London silversmith, William Gyles jr of Winslowe draper [lanarius] & Peter Lowndes jr of Winslowe yeoman (through Peter Lowndes sr his attorney) sought to be admitted tenants to 2 acres of land lately John Godwin's in the common fields of Winslow which William Lowndes esq. surrendered on 18 Aug. They "should stand and be seized" subject to the provisions of an indenture of 26 Nov 1698 between them and William and Rebecca Lowndes. Rent 6d p.a., fine 4s.

They also sought to be admitted to a piece of pasture land called Albons Close and a piece of meadow called Blackthorne Platt, containing 5 acres, lately Thomas Arnett's in the common fields of Winslow, which had been surrendered by Thomas Spratley, John Markham and Thomas Arnett on 18 Aug. Rent and fine [blank].

They also took, according to the same indenture, the following holdings which Thomas Kerbie surrendered:

Fine 21s, heriot by composition 30s.

The following entries are summarised in a notebook of William Lowndes the great-grandson of the above, Centre for Bucks Studies BAS 376/22 no.117

31 Oct 1757: admitted to 5 leys of sweard ground in Hollow Furlong, land of William Burrell on the east and William Norman west, and a close of pasture containing 2 acres shooting down to Dovehouselane, land of the lord of the manor on both sides. Surrender of John Turner & Katherine his wife.

20-21 April 1759: admitted to Stoney Close containing 3 acres in Stone Furlong, Old Mill Field, and 12 butts in the same furlong, and 20 acres in the common fields. Surrender of Daniel & William Gyles

12 Oct 1759: admitted to a messuage, home close and 105½ acres of land in the common fields of Winslow occupied by William Gibbs. And a messuage now or late occupied by William Hale. And 2 closes of pasture in Shipton containing 105 [sic; this seems to be an error] acres occupied by George Maydon. Surrender of William Guy & Mary his wife.

5 June 1760: admitted to a messuage at the Towns End of Winslow called Sheepcoathouse, and 3 acres adjoining it called Sheepcoat Leys, the highway lying on the east and the land of Thomas Blake on the south. And 39½ acres of land in the common fields of Winslow heretofore the estate of George Blake and Mary his wife. And 11½ acres of land in the common fields of Winslow heretofore the estate of John Brown & Margaret his wife. And 8 ridges of arable land lying together in Bubblesgore, New Mill Field, the king's highway on the north, east and west, heretofore the estate of [blank]. And 2 acres formerly purchased of Margaret Deeley, widow. Surrender of Robert Bigg.

29-30 Oct 1764: admitted to 10 acres 2 roods "lying dispersedly in the Commonfields called Millfield Hollowfurrow Field & Demoram Field in Winslow". Surrender of Elizabeth Budd.

28-29 Oct 1765: admitted to 6 acres 3 roods of customary land lying together in Snout & Stoney Stitch Furlong in the Redfield of Shipton, land of Mr Guy & John Henley north, land of the lord of the manor & William Hobbs west, land of the lord of the manor east, highway leading from Swanbourn south. Surrender of Robert Lowndes esq.
Admitted to messuage in Sheepstreet now or late occupied by William Glenister. Surrender of Robert Lowndes

Archdeaconry Court of St Albans, 1636-9

Winslow was in the jurisdiction of the Archdeacon of St Albans for probate, licence to marry, and a range of moral offences. Extracts from the court records can be found on this website under the wills of the relevant people, but a few are given here which can't be placed elsewhere. The court records are in Latin but they sometimes have quotations in English if the exact words were important. The entries below are summaries not full translations.

Herts RO, ASA 7/31

f.3. 19 March 1635/6. The Archdeacon ordered Walter Grante of Winslow three times, more and more pressingly, to undergo the oath. Grante refused, and the Archdeacon pronounced him in contempt.
This case dragged on and Walter appealed to the Court of Arches at one stage. The nature of his offence eventually becomes clear in the entry where he confesses (f.40, 11 March 1636/7).
He had come into church "beinge somewhat overtaken with drinke as wee supposed and carryinge himself unreverently at that tyme in talkinge & mumblinge to himselfe disturbinge those of the congregacion which did heare him in a very unfrendly & rude manner not befittinge that holy place of Gods worship and service."

f.3. 19 March 1635/6. Nicholas Mitchell of Winslow confessed "that upon diverse Sundays in the articles mencioned he did sell bread contrary to the law."

f.3. 19 March 1635/6. Abel Seare of Winslow confessed that on Sundays "he did sell bread and suffer people to drinke in his house in tyme of divine service." He was fined 13s 4d.

f.3. 19 March 1635/6. Thomas Benbow of Winslow confessed to selling shoes on Sundays.

f.35v. 25 Feb 1636/7. Mr Samuel Macarnesse, curate of Granborough, brought a case of slander against John Pix and Isabel his wife of Winslow. Two witnesses from Leighton Buzzard were later summoned.
It is mentioned in a numer of later courts but the outcome is unclear.

f.35v. 25 Feb 1636/7. Alexander Marsh and his wife of Winslow brought a case of slander against Rowland Fell of the same.
Fell was later excommunicated for not appearing in court. He then produced as witnesses Thomas Geary and Richard Hogg of Leighton Buzzard, the later of whom was also excommunicated for non-appearance.

f.35v. 25 Feb 1636/7. Thomas Grant of Winslow was summoned "for profaninge the sabbath day in goinge forth with his horses & carte upon a Sunday since the last visitacion imediately after eveninge prayer". He confessed.

f.37. 4 July 1637. The churchwardens of Winslow certified "le Raylinge in their Communion table".
This showed that they had complied with Archbishop Laud's directive to place communion tables at the east end of churches like altars and to rail them in.

Herts RO, ASA 7/32

f.39v. 2 Sep 1639. Elizabeth wife of William Ethersey and other parishioners of Winslow were ordered to say if there was any reason why Dorothy wife of Thomas Bembor of Winslow should not sit to hear divine service in the seat on the north side of the church in which the inhabitants of the messuage called Moat Hall have long sat. It was agreed that Dorothy had the right to sit there. At the court on 26 Sep, Elizabeth confessed to having laid violent hands on Dorothy, and was excommunicated, then restored (f.41v).

f.47. 1 Nov 1639. Edward Kinnerstone of Winslow was charged on behalf of the churchwardens "for offering violence in the Church and Churchporch of Winslow unto John Thorpe of Granborow." He confessed and was warned.

f.47v. 1 Nov 1639. John Seaton was charged on behalf of the churchwardens: "Wee present John Seaton of our parish for entertaining Company in his house on Sunday drinking & tipling in time of divine service. He confessed and was warned.

f.51. 9 Nov 1639. Daniel Seare was charged that he "had committed adulterie or fornication". No more is heard of this so presumably it was dropped.

Archdeacon of Buckingham's visitation, 1636

Centre for Bucks Studies, D/A/V/4 (summary)

Elizabeth Buggs of Great Horwood was brought before the Archdeacon on 25 May 1636 "for a fame of incontinencye, with one Hugh Seaton of Winslowe" which she denied. She was ordered to find three people to testify to their belief in her innocence (compurgators). They were Mary wife of Richard Showler, Joan wife of Francis Tringe and Mary wife of Thomas Newett. They failed to appear on 15 June and were pronounced in contempt, but apparently appeared later and supported her. She was cleared and restored to her previous good reputation but was not to consort with Seaton again. As he came from Winslow and was under the authority of the Archdeacon of St Albans, he was not involved.

Archdeaconry Court of Buckingham, 1698-1700

Centre for Bucks Studies, D/A/C/16 ff.54-74 (summary)

Avis Burrall, wife of Hugh Burrall of Winslow, brought a case of slander (diffamatio) against Thomas Bett of the parish of East Claydon. East Claydon was under the jurisdiction of the Archdeacon of Buckingham, so it was in his court. It is first recorded on 31 March 1698, when Bett was to be summoned to appear personally at the next court. Burrall appointed Henry Bell as her proctor. On 12 May Bell gave a statement in writing (libellus) but the actual slander is not recorded. Bett was excommunicated for non-appearance (7 July). Eventually he appeared at Aylesbury before Mr Lodington the Archdeacon's surrogate (9 July) and was warned to reply in writing. He appointed Arthur Claver as his proctor. On 23 Nov at the house of the Vicar of Aylesbury, Bell produced John Harrison & Elizabeth his wife of Winslow as witnesses. On 15 Dec the Archdeacon published their evidence. On 30 March 1699 the parties were told they would hear sentence at the next court. There were several postponements. On 13 Sep Bell asked for Bett to be summoned to the next court to say anything he could for himself and say why damages should not be assessed against him. After more postponements, on 9 Nov damages were assessed at £5 10s. Claver failed to appear several times to make payment and eventually (10 April 1700) was excommunicated. The last reference to the case is 6 June 1700 when Bett was still excommunicated, but there is no sign that he ever paid.

Hugh Burrall (1670-1730) was a butcher, son of William Burrall of Winslow. He married Avis Aris at Watford in 1695 after the death of his first wife Mary. She was probably the Avis daughter of Joseph Aris baptised at Hillesden in 1675. They had 12 children baptised at Winslow before Avis was buried in 1713.

Quainton churchwardens accounts, 1708

Records of Bucks XII.1 p.35

Paid for two cariages for carying away ye souldiers from Ailsbury to Winslow £3 2s 0d

Archdeaconry Court of Buckingham, 1715-17

Centre for Bucks Studies, D/A/C/17 ff.95-112 (summary)

In December 1715, Jane Goodyeare wife of Thomas Goodyeare of Winslow “collermaker” appeared against Kezia (Latin: Casia) Thorpe wife of William Thorpe of Addington “dairyman” in a case of slander.  Addington was under the jurisdiction of the Archdeacon of Buckingham although Winslow was not. Thorpe alleged she had not been a ?faithful wife and was not of sound mind. Thorpe repeatedly failed to appear and was excommunicated. Eventually (20 Sep 1716) Bernard Sharpe of Turweston “labourer” was produced as witness by Goodyeare's proctor Burnham.  Burnham alleged that Jane wife of Richard Goodwin of Whaddon and Judith wife of William King of the same were also witnesses and should be summoned.  On 29 Nov Burnham produced Judith King who was awarded 2s expenses, paid by Goodyeare.  She was put on oath, to be examined before the next court, but failed to give evidence, so the judge pronounced her contumacious.  Goodyeare failed to produce Goodwin, the other witness, and on 10 Jan 1716/17 the judge dismissed the case.

Thomas Goodyer married Joan Wilston at Winslow in May 1705 when they also had a child baptised. The name was given as Joan for later baptisms, but is clearly written as Jane in the court records.

Highway robbery, 1754

Whitehall Evening Post, 25 Oct

Last Sunday a Soldier was committed to Aylesbury Gaol, for robbing Mr. Ives of Winslow, and his Son, on the Highway, about a Quarter of a Mile from Aylesbury, the Night before, as they were returning home from that Market. He attack'd the Son first, who was some distance before, and took from him 7s 6d and afterwards meeting with the Father, endeavour'd to rob him; but Mr Ives making some Resistance, the Sodlier knock'd him down with a Horse Pistol, and the Son hearing the Father cry out, turn'd back with a Person who was with him, seized the Villain, ty'd him to Mr. Ives's Horse, and brought him back to Aylesbury.

Mr Ives was probably Thomas Ives, who rented some land from the Lowndes family.

Sale of stage-waggons used for transport to London, 1783

Northampton Mercury, 10 March

To be SOLD by AUCTION, in separate lots, on Thursday, the 20th March, 1783, on the premises of Mr. JOHN CLARK, Carrier, at WINSLOW, in the County of Bucks, unless being disposed of by Private Contract, of which Notice will be given in this Paper.

The Common STAGE-WAGGONS, &c. of the said Mr. Clark, to and from London twice a Week: Consisting of two Broad and three Narrow Wheel Waggons, three carts, 16 Horses, and Harness; a large number of Butter Flats and Cloths; with various other Articles in the above Business, all in exceeding good Condition.

N.B. Mr. CLARK being determined to leave this Branch of Business, the Whole may be a desirable Purchase for any young Person of active Spirit; the Waggons being now, and have been for 60 Years, in full Trade, with a good Set of Customers, and no other in the Town.

*** If required, a Purchaser for the Whole may be accommodated with the Dwelling House and Offices.

A week later a further advert added that the whole had been disposed by private contract. These waggons may have been kept at the former Tithe Barn, as mentioned by Clear (1894, 118). John Clark is found in the fire insurance records, graduating from "carrier" (1782) to "maltster" (1784, apparently still in the same premises) and "gentleman" (1786, now in a house belonging to John Tookey).

London Paupers and criminals (1727-97)

9 June 1727, St Martin in the Fields
LL ref: smdsset_10_1102
Mary Thomas widow aged abt 36 years Lodging in Russell Court Drury Lane Saith her Brother Felix Daverell aged abt 26 years was never married never kept house nor an Apprentice was born at Winslow in Bucks that he hath been near 14 Years in London And that he was a yerly hired Servt to Mr Nutkins at the Boy and Bottle in Salisbury Street in the Strand a Yr and 3 qrs had £3 Pr Ann Wages She being present at the hiring and came thence abt 12 yrs Since afterwards hired himself to at the Kings Head Tavern Charing Cross where he lived upwards of a Yeare but had no Wages from thence he again hired himself to Mr Nutkins where he continued upwards of a year and had greater Wages then before but wt can't be positive Saith he came from thence abt 7 yrs agoe and then workt Severall yeares at Ivey Bridge carrying full to Market and never lived a yr in Service Since Saith he now is and for a year past hath been Lunatick

8 Feb 1763, St Clement Dane's
LL ref: WCCDEP358190329
Ann Davis Aged about 30 Years upon Oath says she Intermarried with Her Husband Wm. Davis at the Fleet London upwards of Nine Years since says her said Husband is Liveing is a Soldier in the 32d Regiment of Foot now in Germany Says her said Husband was born in Somersetshire but in what Part cannot say Says she never was an Apprentice or a hired Yearly Servant for One Year Says her Father John Harris was a Carpenter and Rented a House in the Parish of Winslow in the County of Bucks and Paid Scott and Lott there

3 May 1780
LL ref: LMSMPS507290042, LMSMPS507290043
William Hawkins Elizabeth his Wife and their three Children (Namely) Mary Aged Fifteen are Sarah Aged Thirteen Years and William Aged Five Years were removed from the Parish of Saint Mary le Bone the Said County of Middlesex to the said Parish of Little Stanmore
Little Stanmore claimed that in 1777 he had given his place of residence as Winslow.

Dec 1788, Middlesex Sessions, vagrants
LL ref: LMSMPS508420158
Anne Spratley of Winslow. Brought in 2 Dec, sent out 3 Dec. Fine 2d.

7 Dec 1797, Criminal Registers
LL ref: NAHOCR700030158
John Seaton. 5 ft 8 in. Dark complexion. brown hair. dark eyes Winslow Bucks. a Butcher .
Committed at Clerkenwell by Revd. S. Glass. D.D.
Crime: Stealing Poultry . Revd. Mr. Dodd's
Tried 11 Dec by Perryn
12 Months in the house of Correctionn. & publicly Whipp'd

Copyright 29 September, 2023