Will of John Couper of Shipton, 1453/4

Herts RO 1AR69

[Translated from Latin]

In etc. 6 Jan AD 1453 I John Couper of Shipton, of sound mind and memory but sick in body, make my will in this way. First I bequeath my soul to almighty God and the Blessed Virgin Mary and my body to be buried in the churchyard of the parish church of Wynslowe. Item I bequeath to the high altar 2 bushels of malt. Item to the image of St Laurence 2 bushels of the same. Item to the image of St Mary in the chancel 2 bushels of the same. Item to the light of the holy cross 4 bushels of malt. Item to the image of St Mary in the church 2 bushels of the same. Item I bequeath to the altar of the Holy Trinity 1 bushel of the same. Item to the altar of St Nicholas with St Thomas 1 bushel. Item to the light of St Christopher 1 bushel of the same. Item to the light of St Michael 1 bushel. Item I bequeath to the torches [tortoriis] 40d. Item to the great work of the window 6s 8d. Item I bequeath to the monastery of St Albans 2s. The residue indeed of all my goods not bequeathed I give and bequeath to Alice my wife and William my son and I make them my executors that they may ordain and dispose for the salvation of my soul as seems most expedient to them.

[Probate 8 Feb 1453/4]

Notes

John was the son of William Couper (d.1437). He made a deathbed surrender of a toft and half-virgate to his wife Alice and son Thomas, and of 8 acres to his wife Alice and son John (WMCB pp.674-5). His main holding of a messuage and virgate was inherited by his eldest son William (p.668).