1t seems many years since I was introduced to a triumverate of Harris, a “Captain”, “Major”, and “Sergeant”, who, by the accepted wisdom of that time. were all related; the “Captain”, brother of the “Sergeant”, was father of the “Major”. This view was static, as if frozen in ice; but one that began to thaw. Captain Thomas Harris was firstly of Essex, until an insight by a Harris researcher (Mr. Phil. Harris) pointed out that many of his associates in Virginia were from the Buckinghamshire region of England, and the concept of a “continuation of association” between English families that settled in early Virginia was introduced. A further ‘thaw’ also led to an understanding that Major William Harris of Virginia was of Ludlow, Shropshire, baptised in 1627/8; his sister, Mary, in 1625, confirmed by her deposition in Virginia to be 64 years of age in 1689.
Understanding develops as research continues. It has become evident that Major William Harris was of the same family as the Lees of Langley, in Shropshire. One of this family, perhaps of a junior branch, of Coton Hall, may have been Richard (“the immigrant”) Lee of “Dividing Creeks”, Northumberland County, Virginia. Lee researchers “of old” thought that he was of a landed family of Shropshire, and that his claim to the coat of arms of the Lees of Langley/Lee Hall was a truthful one, made by an honourable man.
Sadly, this has been questioned. The “immigrant” did not appear to be of a wealthy, land-owning background, but why should he have been, if a younger son, of a younger son, of a wealthy family, was of more modest means. The most likely descent for Richard Lee of Dividing Creeks will be given in forthcoming article.
Of the senior branch, Richard Lee of Langley (d. 1590), husband of Eleanor, dau. of Walter Wrottesley, had very strong associations to the Ligon family, as did the family of Mary Harris, aforementioned, whose dau., Joan, m. Robert Hancock; potentially explaining why a son of Richard Lee of Virginia was named Hancock Lee.
In England these Harris and Lee families shared close tenurial connections that followed the path of their overlords and kin, the Corbets. They also married into the same families, resulting in a network of non-consanguineous cousinship, as exampled hereinafter.
This account commences with Reyner/Reginald de la Lee. Whatever the claim, his ancestry is unknown. That he was the deputy sheriff of Shropshire in 1201, under FitzAlan, may furnish a small clue of sorts. Sheriffs and their deputies were often of familial connection; either in blood or as in-laws. This may form the speculation of a subsequent article.
1. REGINALD/REYNER DE LA LEE
He was born by 1170. “The first mention which I find of any member of this family is of Reyner de Lee, who towards the close of the twelfth century acquired Alderton near Middle, by purchase from Fulk FitzWarin, who held it under FitzAlan, and whose posterity continued to be Mesne-Lords thereof … His numerous attestations of that Baron’s Charters, more especially those which related to Upton and its neighbourhood, are an illustration of this. Moreover, Reyner de Lee was FitzAlan’s deputy, as Sheriff of Shropshire, in the year 1201, when Fitz Alan quitted office. At the Iter of 1203 he appears as a Knight and Juror in cases of Grand Assize. I think that this Reyner de Lee, besides his estates at Lea juxta Pimhill, Alderton, and Hunkington, held something under FitzAlan at Weston near Clun; for ‘Reiner de Lee, with consent of Thomas his son and heir, and for the souls and health of himself and Hawise his wife, gave to Haghmon Abbey 2s. rent which David de Weston held, William Chaplain of Clun attesting the grant. … Again, “Thomas de Lee confirmed the said grant of Reiner his father, and appointed that the said David de Weston and his successors should pay the said rent of 2s. to the Abbey. Witnesses, William Banastre, Alan Burcton, and Reiner his son.’ … In 1221 and 1255 we have seen that Thomas de la Lee was a Coparcener in Aldon, showing, I think, that he or one of his ancestors had married a coheiress. His wardship of young Stephen de Stanton in 1255 was probably the result of a speculative purchase”. (Eyton, Antiquities of Shropshire, 7-8, 274).
Early 13th century. “Sciant presentes’ etc Ralph de Picheford gives etc to William son of Richard de la Beche a nook of land in Beche which his father held. Witnesses: Philip de Stepleton, Roger Sprenchose, William Honald, Reginald de Lee, Hugh Strange, Engelard de Pichford. (Shropshire Archives (S.A.), X6000/22/6/6/5191).
1200-1210. By Roger son of William de la More to the Canons of Hagheman, for the soul of the donor and the souls of his ancestors and heirs, in free alms, all his right in the land of Linlegha. Witnesses: William FitzAlan, John L’Estrange and Hamo his brother, Walter de Munetun, Robert de Gyres, Reiner de Lee (Reiner), Warner de Wilileghs, Roger Sprerengehose. (S.A., c.1XMO/1037/7/1).
1200-1210. Grant and Confirmation from William son of William FirzAlan to William son of William de Herkalewe of the grant which Rannulf son of Gilbert de Rodintun made to the said William of all his meadow of Wrennemor. Witnesses: John Strange, Reiner De Lee, Philip son of William, Peter the clerk, William Mascone, Hugh de Beck, Philip de Penninton, Baldewin Wishart, John de Hopton. (S.A., .X6000/1/13/404).
1196-1210. 972/Fiche 80-80 Parties: William son of William FitzAlan and 2. William, chaplain of Wroccester (Wroxeter), son of Gregory: A gift made by Thomas of Costetin to 2. of assarts between Reddestred and his fishery and which Radulf of Dreiton (Dryton) held; and an enclosure in Hetun (Eaton) Wood and three half yardlands which 2 held in Dreiton Witnesses: John Lestrange, Reiner of the Lee, Philip son of William, Vivian of Rossall, Hugh his brother, William and John sons of the lord.
1.1. THOMAS DE LA LEE AND PETRONILLA CORBET
He was born by 1200, if taking for granted it was he who was a Coparcener in Aldon in 1221; if not, he may have been born ca. 1210.
He married Petronilla, daughter of Sir Richard Corbet, Sheriff of Shropshire.
1247. Parties: 1. John son of John of Chetwynd and 2. Geoffrey Griffith. Consideration: 2’s homage and service. Description: The village of Howeleg (Howle), i.e. 8 yardlands of land with the demesne, rents, homages, services, the mill and fishery with all liberties as set out in the charter of Adam of Howle (Howleg). 2 shall have no rights beyond the Meese. Witnesses: John Lestrange then sheriff, James of Audley, William of Hadley, Hodo of Hodnet, *Richard Corbet, Thomas of Rossal, Robert of Haughton, *Richard of Leighton, Roger of Puleston, Thomas of Lee, Jordan of Puleston, Richard of Stockton. (S.A., X972/1/1/3/5/1/7).
13th cent. 1. John le Wrothe of Morton, 2. Robert Corbet and Matilda his wife For consideration of 1 marc of silver, 1. grants to 2. a messuage with adjacent croft and six acres with appurtenances in Morton. (Including) the fourth acre (which) lies in ‘le Crukchung’ nearest the land of ‘Churlechon’. Witnesses, Peter of Eyton, William of Ercall, Thomas of Lee, Philip de ‘Penynton’, William of Preston. Endorsed, ‘terr’ in Morton Corbett’. (S.A.. X322/2/70). Crukechung/Cruckton, the abode of a later Harris family.
1247. In 5 Edw. II. (1312). “Thomas de Lee and Petronilla his wife give to John de Lee and to Matilda, daughter of Henry de Erdinton, all their land, whether sown or unsown, in Roden.” A Fine of April 16, 1312, further explains this Deed.—Thomas de Lee and Petronilla his wife, Deforciants of the Manor of Rodene, the right of Petronilla, settle the same on John de Lee, and his wife, Matilda, daughter of Henry de Erdinton, &c. (as in the entail stated under Roden). I take it that *John de Lee, thus married, came of age about this period”. (Eyton 9, 298, 1859). (John de Lee and Matilda de Erdington were the parents of William de la Lee: Robert Corbet of Morton knight to William de la Lee of Pymenhull. Quitclaim of all right to land in the vill and fields of Wilderdehope which he had by feoffment from Robert de Harley. No witnesses. Given at Wylderdehope. Sunday next after the feast of St Ambrose (4 April) 38 Edward III (1364). (S.A., 165/66).
CORBET
1. Richard Corbet, held Wattlesborough under the Barons of Caus before 1180; occurs in Shropshire Pipe Roll about 1195; died bef. 1225.
1.1. Richard Corbet (of Wattlesborough and Moreton, in 1237; Claus. 17 Hen. III., 1240; Testa de Nevill, 1243. He m. Johanna, dau. and co-heir of Bartholomew Toret of Moreton.
1.1.1. Richard Corbet* of Wattlesborough and Moreton, recorded in deeds in 1247,1248. He m. Petronella, dau. of Stephen de Stanton, Lady of Edgbold (Edgebolton), b. ca. 1235.
1.1.1.1. Petronella Corbet, b. ca. 1255, m. Thomas de la Lee, brother of Henry de la Lee, proposed ancestor of John Harris. 1.1.1.2. Sir Robert Corbet of Wattlesborough and Moreton, Sheriff of Shropshire in 1288; died, 1300. He m. Matilda de Arundel, who d. in 1309.
ERDINGTON
1. Henry de Erdington. Between 1135 and 1166, Gervase Paynel granted a knight’s fee to Henry de Erdington in Aston (V.C.H. Warws. i. 332). 1.1. William de Erdington. (Bk. of Fees, 509, 513). 1.1.1. Thomas de Erdington, m. Rohesia de Cokefield, a widow 2 H. 3. From 1194 to 1210, the manor of Wellington, Shropshire (10 miles from Cruckton; 7 mls from Condover), was granted in fee farm to Thomas of Erdington, the sheriff. (V.C.H. Salop. iii. 13). From 1211, Thomas held by serjeanty, and from 1212 by the service of one knight. He died in 1218, and in 1221 his son Giles (d. ca. 1268), was lord of Erdington. 1.1.1.1. Giles de Erdington, who was succeeded by his nephew, Sir Henry de Erdington, d. 1282. (Cal. Inq. Misc. i, p. 317). 1.1.1.2. Peter de Erdington, died on crusade (Plea Rolls (Coll. Hist. Staffs. iv), 88).
1.1.1.2.1. Sir Henry de Erdington, m. Maud, dau. and coheir of Roger de Someri (Knights of Edw. I, Harl. Soc. lxxx, 1929, 310), having issue, Giles, b. in 1272, who died young; his heir being his brother, Henry. Henry de Erdington, benefactor of Shrewsbury Church; his gifts being witnessed by Sir Robert Corbet (Haughmond cart., f. 197 b). He m. Matilda, dau. of Roger de Someri, of Dudley, and Nicola d’Albini, heiress of the Albini Earls of Arundel. After her husband’s death, she held the manor of Shrewsbury, and “Roger Pride (Prowde), a burgess of Shrewsbury, holds the vill of Besford of the aforesaid Matilda.” (Eyton viii, 145-9). “It appears that Robert Corbet of Moreton, who died in 1300, had been, jointly with his wife Matilda, enfeoffed, not only in Besford but in something at Shrewsbury. Their Feoffee in each case was Roger Pride (ibid.). 1.1.1.2.1.1. Henry de Erdington, m. Joan Wolvey. 35 Ed. 3. She was the dau. of Sir Thomas de Wolvey (of Wolvey, in com. Warwick), and Alice, dau. of James de Clinton. The overlords of Wolvey were the Earls of Warwick. Earl William in 1166 stated that Ivo de Harecurt* held 7 fees de vetero feffamento, but that his father (Earl Roger) had transferred (the overlordship of) 3½ fees to the Earl of Leicester (Red Book of Exch. (Rolls Ser.), 325) — from whom it descended to the Earls of Winchester, so that the overlordship was shared by the two earls. Henry de Erdington, “who coming of age in 1295, had livery of his father’s lands, and who succeeded to his mother’s estates in 1302. The said Henry is entered as Lord of Shawbury in the Nomina Villarum of 1316” (Eyton, viii, 145-9).
1.1.1.2.1.1.1. Matilda de Erdington, m. John de la Lee. 1.1.1.2.1.1.2. Sir Giles de Erdington (b. ca. 1305-1310), m. Elizabeth Tolthorpe. She was the descendant of Robert de Toleworth, subtenant of William, son of Ansculf de Picquigny, in Toleworth, in Casterton parish, co. Rutland, at Domesday. The overlordship passed to Fulk Paynel, probably by his marriage with the daughter of William son of Ansculf. From Fulk it went to his son Ralph and his grandson, Gervase. Gervase’s son Robert died in his father’s lifetime, and Gervase was succeeded by his sister (not daughter), Hawise, wife of John de Somery. Robert was also a subtenant of William in Staffordshire, at Bushbury, Ettingshall, and Great Barr. Giles de Erdington d. 1n 1363. 1.1.1.2.1.1.2.1. Margaret de Erdington, m. (1353), Roger Corbet (d. 1396). 1.1.1.2.1.1.2.1.1. Roger Corbet, of Moreton Corbet, d. 1468, m. Elizabeth Hopton.
1.1.1.2.1.1.2.1.1.1. Sir Richard Corbet,* of Moreton Corbet, d. 1493. m. Elizabeth, dau. of Sir Walter Devereux, 1st Lord Ferrers of Chartley, who m., in 1494, (2) Sir Thomas Leighton, Sheriff of Shropshire, son of John Leighton, Esq. (Sheriff and Escheater of Shropshire, Steward of Bishop’s Castle, Constable of Oswestry Castle), and Ankaret Burgh. Sir Thomas Leighton had issue, by his mistress, Ann Baker, Margaret, who m. John Harris, ancestor of Major William Harris of Virginia, undoubtedly.
EDGEBOLTON, OR EDGEBOLD, part of FitzAer’s manor of Wythyford.
Eyton 9, 322/3, 1859:
I next find good evidence that John de Upton, who succeeded to Upton in 1283-4) was Fitz Aer’s Tenant in two virgates,-part of Fitz Aer’s share of Edgebolton. These two virgates were conveyed by John de Upton to *Robert Corbet of Morton and his wife Matilda. Consequently in the Inquest taken January 1301, concerning the specific settlement of certain estates of Robert Corbet, deceased, we find that “he and his wife Matilda had been jointly enfeoffed in two virgates in Egebaldenham (Edgebolton) by John de Upton, which two virgates the deceased had held in capite under Hugh le fitz Aer, at a rent of one pair of white gloves”.
It was, I suppose, some small part of Robert Corbet’s purchase in Edgebolton, that William, son of John de Buleton, had been disseized of in 1292. The Defendants were Robert, son of Richard Corbet, and William Hord,” but the Plaintiff failed to prosecute the Suit. About 1294-8, Margery, widow of John le Preyers of Dothull, grants to William Goge of Eggebaldenham (Edgebolton), and Eadith his wife, her estate in Eggebaldenham. Witnesses, Hugh fitz Eyr, William Hord, Richard Fremon of Schaubury, William Crasset, and John de Wythyford.
The lands which passed in the above two Deeds I take to have been in Fitz Aer’s part of Edgbold. It will presently be seen that, independently of his (probably purchased) interest in Edgebolton, Robert Corbet of Moreton had an hereditary claim there also …. Richard Corbet held these two virgates, I presume, under Vivian de Roshall, so that his alleged grant was in the nature of a surrender. His right so to grant or surrender, was afterwards brought in question. His Widow, Petronilla, was surviving in 1272, and then claimed the said two virgates as her marriage-portion (maritagium), saying that her late husband, though she could not gainsay him in his lifetime, had wrongfully alienated them to Vivian de Rossall. Petronilla Corbet’s suit lay of course against the tenants in possession.
Upton Cressett was possessed by Cressett family through the marriage of Constance, dau. of the Royal verderer, John de Upton, with Thomas Cressett, whose family had previously lived at Garmston, near Leighton. Their grandson, Hugh Cressett (1398–1449), styled himself as “of Upton
Thomas de la Lee was a brother of:
HENRY DE LA LEE
1.Henry de la Lee, b. ca. 1240.
1.1. Henry de la Lee, b. ca. 1265. “Henry atte Cros de Egilton” (Edgebolton). “Sciant presentes etc. William son of Peter de Upton in ligia gives etc to Henry son of Henry de la Lee a messuage in Sukedon (Sugdon) demised by Will. son of Rog. de Sukedon to him, etc. Witnesses, Sir Will. de Erkalawe (escheator in Shropshire), Tho. du Lee. Monday after the Feast of the Annunciation, 31 Edw I. 1303. (S.A., HX6000/22/2/6/4479). (Henry de la Lee would seem to be a brother of John FitzHenry of Newnham, of Newnham in Pontesbury, a member of Ford, a juror in 1292. A Richard FitzJohn is mentioned in the Subsidy Roll of 1327 may have been his son. A pedigree is given in the Herald’s Visitation of 1584 of the family of Higgons, of Boycott and Stretton, and in 1610 Reynold Higgons was the chief copyholder in Newnham and in Edge(bolton). Atte Cros/s (crucem), the abode of a person who lived near a cross, or the cross of a church. Edgebolton was sometimes called Great Withyford, and is a parish of Shawbury.
1.1.1. John Harrys, b. ca. 1295. (John FitzHenry). 1318. “Pateat universis etc, Petronilla daughter of Stephen de Stanton in ligia vid etc. quit claims to Oliver her son all her right etc. in a place of waste in Stanton extending from la wolbole to le Okenhurste and from le Mos to the assart of her (men) of Stanton, which place Oliver had of the gift of her and her former husband Thomas du Lee, with common for his animals and men of Stanton etc. Witnesses: William de Titteley, Richard de Boleye, Richard son of Henr, John his brother,* John de Wythiford, Sir Richard de Preston; chapl. At Stanton, Friday in the Feast of Purification, 12 Edward II. (S.A., X6000/70/10782).
Close Roll, 19 Edward II (July 8, 1325 – July 7, 1326), “John de Lee, Knight gives to Stephen de Lee his brother and Thomas de Lee brother of Stephen for their lives a place of arable extending from the ditch of the field of Hetfield to the assart of William de Tiitteleye formerly of John Corbet and from the assart of John fitz Hen’
1. Giles de Erdington lord of Shawbury. 2. Thomas son of Henry atte Cros de ‘Egilton’ (Edgebolton), and John his brother. 1. leases to 2. for their lives 3 royal acres of waste in Shawbury and its apppurtenances lying in the heath, between the king’s way which leads from Morton towards Shrewsbury and the king’s way which leads from Shawbury to Shrewsbury. Paying 6d an acre at 2 terms, suit of great court twice a year and 12d heriot. Witnesses, John of Wytheford, Robert of Bolas, William le Fremon of Shawbury, Thomas Gery of the same, Thomas son of Richard and others. Given at Shawbury, Saturday next after the feast of St Luke the Evangelist. 6 E III. Edgebolton, Shawbury, Shropshire. . (S.A., X322/2/108).
1.1.1.1. Richard Harris, born ca. 1330.
1.1.1.1.1. Thomas Harris, born ca. 1365. In May 1394, Richard Harrys held two messuages and half a yard land in Ryton; and Thomas Harrys, son of Richard, paid 10 s. fine to have seisin of two messuages and two nokes of land which were his father’s.
1.1.1.1.2. Richard Harrys (brother of Thomas) held lands in Condover in 1425.
1.1.1.1.2.1. Thomas Harrys, the younger of Wheatehal”.
1.1.1.1.2.1.1. Thomas Harrys. In 1453 the township of Wheathill presented that Thomas Harris, who held a messuage and half a yard land there, was dead. Eight years later his lands were surrendered to his son, William.
1.1.1.1.2.1.1.1. William Harrys, of Wheatehall, m. a dau. of Hyggons.
1.1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1. John Harrys. In 1509, John Harrys of Wheathall had a grant from Sir Thomas Leighton of waste there called Woodlands; he died in 1512, when it was found that his nephew Robert Harrys was his next heir. This Robert Harris was the ancestor of Roger Harries, of Shrewsbury, draper, son of William Harries, of Wheathill, yeoman, who was admitted a burgess of Shrewsbury on Sept. 12, 1581. He was not the father of Thomas Harris of Tong Castle, a common and eroneous assumption, who was a descendant “Richard Harreis”, by a younger son, who held two messuages and half a yard land in Ryton on May 1, 1394.
THOMAS HARRIS, ANCESTOR OF MAJOR WILLIAM HARRIS OF VIRGINIA
1.1.2. Thomas Harrys,* b. ca. 1295. Thomas Henr’ (Thomas, son of Henry). The Harris family were tenants of lands in the manor of Condover, from a very early period. A volume of Condover Court Rolls preserved at Eyton Hall contains a great deal of information about this family. As early as 1363 Thomas Henr’ held two messuages and a noke of land and a quarter of a noke at Condover at the rent of 2s. 3d. … whilst John Henr’ held the third part of half a virgate of land at Dodingtonne (Dorrington) at the rent of 13d. and 8 mites, and a cottage at Ryton Magna at the rent of 4d. It is difficult to trace the descent of the Harry’s family, because there seem to have been several different families of the name living in Condover at the same time. (Transactions of the Shropshire Archaeological and Natural History Society, p. 51, 1919), Debtor: Thomas atte Cross, of Shrewsbury (the Liberty of Shrewsbury, Salop.), the elder, and Thomas his son. Creditor: Richard de Haston, burgess of Shrewsbury [the Liberty of Shrewsbury, Salop.). Amount: £10. Before whom: Thomas le Foreman; Roger Pryde, Clerk; at Shrewsbury. 1344. (C 241/119/203). The manor of Condover belonged in Saxon times to the King, and was the head of the Hundred. Earl Roger de Montgomery became its possessor after the Norman Conquest, and held half the the manor in demesne. Earl Roger’s tenant was Roger Venator, lord of Pulverbatch, who held one hide of him.
1.1.2.1. *Thomas Harrys, b. ca. 1320.
1.1.2.1.1. Thomas Harrys, b. ca. 1360, held land in the manor of Condover in 1421.
1.1.2.1.1.1. “Thomas Harrys of Condover”, b. ca. 1385, also held land in the manor of Condover in 1421.
1.1.2.1.1.1.1. John Harries, b. ca. 1410.
1463, April 22. Noverint Universi per presentes (Know all men by these presents), Alice Hawley daughter and heir of Roger Nichols of Ardescote in the Manor of Ford, late wife of Patrick Hawley of Bello Marisco, constitutes John Balle her Attorney to surrender a messuage and 3.1/2 nooks of land in Ardescote which her father held, to the use of John Harries of Cruckton. This John Harries would seem to be the brother of Hugh Harries. (Shropshire Archives (S.A), X6000/71/6/10998)..
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1. John Harries, b. ca. 1450.
1482, Nov. 20. Of all his right in his lands tenements in Aldefeld within the lordship of Condover. Witnesses. Thomas Horde esquire steward there, John Adams, William Adams, John Harries, Roger Goxennell, and others. At Condover Endorsed, “a surrender Alcok to Richard Lee for Aldevill”. (S.A., X465/2/3/1/477).
1489, Oct. 21. Manor of Ford. Court Magna & Prima held 21 Oct. 5 Henry Vll before Sir John Grey, Lord Powys Steward. Surrender by Hugh Harries of a messuage and half a virgate in Cruckton to the use of John Westley and Joan his wife and John Harries of Cruckton. John Harries of Cruckton son of John Harries and Agnes his wife admitted. (S.A., X6000/71/1/11111).
1499. Manor of Ford. Court Magna and Parva Held Thursday after Feast of Invention of the Cross. 15. Henry VII. Joan relict of John Westley on Concover by John Harries her at 1505. Manor of Ford. Court held Friday after the feast of S George 21. Henry Vll recorded that Thomas Rollys, son of Hugh Rollys & Alice Hare (Harrys) daughter of John Hare (Harrys) and heir of Hugh Hare (Harrys) sought seisin of two messuage 1 virgate & 1 Nook in Cruckton and of a messuage and virgate in Plealey. Witnessed by John Corbet, Steward. 9 Jan. 21 Hen Vll. (S.A., X6000/71/1/11113).
Manor of Ford. Court held Friday after the feast of S George 21. Henry Vll recorded that Thomas Rollys, son of Hugh Rollys & Alice Hare (Harrys) daughter of John Hare (Harrys) and heir of Hugh Hare (Harrys) sought seisin of two messuage 1 virgate & 1 Nook in Cruckton and of a messuage and virgate in Plealey. Witnessed by John Corbet, Steward. 9 Jan. 21 Hen Vll. (S.A., X6000/71/1/11113).
1499. Sciant presentes etc. Richard Tylleley son and heir of Hugh Tylleley carnifex of Salop gives etc. to Thomas Rolles of Cruckton a parcel of land in Crokey in the lordship of Ford called Cokkespulles which his father held of the gift of Katherine former wife of Simon Towre. To have etc. Witnesses. John Lawrence, John Harries of Cruckton. At Cruckton and Crokey. Morrow of Nat. of John Baptist. 5. Henry VIII. (S.A., X6000/71/6/11168). Tylleley …
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1. John Harris, m. Margaret Leighton.
Ann Baker, b. ca. 1460, the mistress of Thomas Leighton, and neither his ist or 2nd wife. Ann Baker was the mistress of Sir Thomas Leighton before he married Elizabeth Devereux, and, almost certainly, afterwards. As his Will provides for nine children by Anne Baker, he clearly did not form a liason with her at the age of 64, after Elizabeth Devereux died in 1516. “Sir Thomas Leighton, who like his father, was settled at Stretton en le Dale, was married to Elizabeth, daughter of Walter Devereux, Lord Ferrers of Chartley and widow of Sir Richard Corbet, who died in 1492. He is said to have had a second wife in Ann Baker, but his Will clearly showed that he was never married that lady. By this will Sir Thomas expressed a desire that Ann Baker for her service done to me “shall have the profits of my Mills of All Stretton during her life to the finding of her and her children and after her decease ‘the remainder thereof to my right heirs for ever’. As Dame Elizabeth Leighton did not die until 1516 (3 years before her husband) and his will was made shortly before his death, it seems certain that his children by Ann Baker were illegitimate, though the Herald’s Visitation gives no hint of this” (scandelous behaviour). (Trans. Shrop. Arch., 1928, p. 30).
DEVEREUX
1. Sir Walter Devereux.
1.1. Walter Devereux, m. Elizabeth Bromwich.
1.1.1 Walter Devereux, m. Elizabeth Merbury.
1.1.1.1. Walter Devereux, m. Ann Ferrers.
1.1.1.1.1. *Elizabeth Devereux, m. (1) Sir Richard Corbett, (2) by November 1496, Sir Thomas Leighton: “This indenture made at London 12 day of November the 11th yer of the reigne of Kyng Harry the 7th Bytwyne Sir Thomas Leighton Knyght and Dame Elizabeth hys wiff late wiff of S Ryc. Corbet Knyght of the one p’tie and Robert Frederick, etc.”.
1.1.1.1.2. Anne Devereux, m. Sir William Herbert, son of Sir William ap Thomas of Raglan and Gwladus v. Dafydd Gam.
1.1.1.1.2.1. Sir George Herbert of St. Julians (3rd son) m. a dau. of Sir Richard Croft, of Croft Castle.
Of Margaret Leighton’s sister: an example of the repetition of associations within kinship groups:
1. William Spencer, m. (2), Joyce, dau. of “Thomas Leighton “militis”.
1.1. Thomas Spencer, 4th son, m. Margaret, dau. of Thomas Williams, and relict of Nicholas Purslow, brother of John Purslowe of Sidbury (b. ca. 1530, bur. March 13, 1593-4), who m. (1) (1566) Constance, dau. of Richard Newport of Honingham; (2) 1576-7) Dorothy, dau. of Sir George Blount of Kinlet and Constance Talbot, having issue: Katherine Purslowe, who m. Richard Hill of Bickley (son of William of Bickley), having issue: Dorothy Hill, who m. John Holland of Pickthorn (son of Michael Holland, of Pickthorne), having issue: Thomas Holland (bapt. May 15, 1648), who m. (April 9, 1678), Elizabeth Kettleby; they the probable parents of Michael Holland of Goochland. Michael Holland of Pickthorne was the son of Thomas Holland, and Alicia, “fil. Thomas Cocke of Pickthorne”, second-cousin of Richard Cocke, of “Malvern Hills”, Henrico.
Constance Talbot was the sister of Margaret Talbot, who m. (1) Sir Richard Ligon, of Arle, Madresfield, brother of Thomas Ligon, who m. Frances Dennys (cousin), having issue: Thomas Ligon, who m. (Oct. 10, 1602), Elizabeth Pratt; having issue: Col. Thomas Ligon, who m. Mary Harris, born in 1625 in Ludlow, by deposition, sister of Major William Harris, bapt. 1627/8; neighbour of the said Richard Cocke. By his first wife, Mary Russell, Sir Richard Ligon had issue: Katharine Ligon, who m. Fleetwood Dormer, Esq., who m. (2) Mary Harris, second-cousin of the said Mary and William Harris.
The said Richard Newport was the eldest son of Thomas Newport of High Ercall, and Anne, dau. of Sir Robert Corbet of Moreton Corbet, son of Richard Corbet and Elizabeth Devereux, who m. (2) “Thomas Leighton “militis”, the father of the wife of John Harrys, ancestor of the second-cousins, Mary Harris, 2nd wife of Fleetwood Dormer, and Mary and William Harris of Virginia.
1530, ca. (S.A., X6000/71/1/11115). Manor of Ford. Court Magna with view of frankspanel held Thursday after feast of Annun. 22 Hen Vlll before John Corbett Esquire, Steward. Recorded that John Harries died since the last court, and that John Harries is next heir.
Jan. 4, 1532. Omnibus Christi fidelibus etc”. Thomas Laken, Thomas Scriven, William Leighton Esquires & Richard Mynd – reciting that they and divers others deceased recovered against Thomas Leighton, Knight all his manors etc in County Salop to the use of Thomas and to perform his last will; and Thomas of Westley to the use of John Leighton son & heir of Sir Thomas who was “super nos intravit” in the said messuage, and by Deed (22 Henry VIII) granted it to Thomas Luther & John Harres – Laken and the rest release the premises to Luther & Harres. Dated January 4th 24 Henry VIII. (S.A., X6000/16/19/2808).
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Richard Harris, b. ca. 1520, m. Eleanor, dau. of William Jenyns/Janyns/Jannyns, of Wallybone/Walibourne, Shropshire.
“Thomas Janyns” married Eleanor, dau. of Rowland Jay, of Bedstone.
His son, “Roland Janyns” (b. ca. 1460), by his Will (dated Nov. 3, 1511), bequested all his lands in Walybone and Bedstone to: Thomas Jannyns, clerk (his brother), William Bromley of Mitley, his father-in-law, Roger Bromley, brother of William, husband of Jane, Roland’s sister; John Janyns, probably another brother.
An indenture of Feb. 20, 1528, shows *Thomas Jenyns, son and heir of Roland, assigned to his mother, Elizabeth, for her dower, rents in Bedstone and Walybone.
By Katherine Oteley, Thomas had four sons and 6 daughters. (Précis from Trans. Shrop. Arch., vol. 51, 1877).
1. Thomas Jennyns
1.1. Rowland Jennyns, m. Elizabeth, dau of William Bromley. (Trans. Shrops. Arch. 1941). He as an adult making a grant 3 Nov. 1511, and was dead by 20 Feb. 1528 when his son Thomas assigned his mother Elizabeth her dower.
1.1.1. Thomas Jennyns of Walybone, bur. at Pontesbury in 1568, m. Katherine, dau of William Oteley of Pitchford, and sister of Thomas Otely, of Ford (in Pontesbury), whose son, William Oteley, m. Margaret, dau. of Edward Leighton, son of Sir Thomas Leighton of Wattlesborough, and Elizabeth Devereux, relict of Richard Corbet.
1.1.1.1. William Jennyns of Walybone, m. Cecilia, dau. of John Leighton of Wattlesborough, likewise son of Sir Thomas Leighton of Wattlesborough, and Elizabeth Devereux
1.1.1.2. Eleanor Jennyns, m. *Richard Harris of Cruckton
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. John Harris, b. ca. 1545, m. Eleanor, dau. Thomas Prowde, of Sutton. The Pride/Prowde family they were tenants of the tenants of the Erdingtons, as given heretofore.
1543, Feb. 18. (S.A., X6000/71/6/11169). “Noverint universi etc” Thomas Rolls of Cruckton appoints Edward Onslowe of Cruckton and Robert Onslowe of Cruckmeole as his attorneys to deliver seisin to John Harries son and heir of Richard Harries of Cruckton of a parcel of land in *Crokey called Cokkespulles.
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Richard Harris, decd. by 1625, m. Anna, dau. of Thomas Smalman of Wilderhope. Harris v Barrington. Plaintiffs: Richard Harris, Anne Harris his wife and others. Defendants: Henry Barrington and others. Subject: personal estate of the deceased Richard Harris in Shropshire. 1621-1625. (C 3/359/51).
1609. Jan. 19. Indenture between John Talbot of Grafton (Worcs) Gent and Richard Harries of Cruckton, Gent and Arthur Ward of Hynton, Gent, Reciting Deed (June 18) by which Talbot sold to Harries premises in Cruckton, Sibberscott, Sascott and Ardescott in the Manor of Ford and also reciting deed (same date] by which Talbot sold to Ward nooks of land in Lee* and Marton in the same Manor. .(S.A., X6000/71/2/11026).
That is, Lee Hall:
“Scottish Dove,” March 15th to 17th, 1645: “Prince Maurice was put to “his shifts, and tooke out the Garrison from Shrewsbury, and lost his Unkle’s “best towne; and now he hath quit all ye Garrisons in Shropshire, because he “wanted men to keepe them; and therefore hath burnt Lee Hall, and other Garrison, and demolished their works.” A farmhouse now occupies the site of Lee Hall, but attached to it are some fragments of walls, which have the appearance of having been burnt, and among them an arch of carved stone, which shows that the house must have had some architectural decoration”.
“Captain Devilliers had before this time been removed to Caus Castle, and David Lloyd to have been left in charge of Lee Hall. “To the Constable of Stockton, “This is to certifie you that I returned a warrant from the hand of ye Right Worthy Captain Devilliers, Governor of Lee Hall, whereby I am to certifie “you, that if you come not in between this and Monday next, to bringe in your accounts, and do bringe in your arrears, if not, he threatens to burne all ye bookes, and to make you pay all anew, and so I remaine your loving friend, “David Lloyd, Marton Hall, 23rd of January, 1645”. (The garrisons of Shropshire, during the Civil war, 1642-48, from the Collection of Civil War Papers in the British Museum).
1609. June 26. Indentures dated June 26th, 9 Charles I, 1633. Between 1. Richard Hosier of Cruckton, gent & Alice Lee, daughter of Sir Humphrey Lee, Bart; 2. James Betton of Shrewsbury D.D. for security of a loan of 100 – demise of a messuage in Cruckton & lands in Pontesbury for 25 years. Mortgage. X6000/16/3/3220
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. *Mary Harris, b. ca. 1620), Lady Dormer, m. (after Feb. 3, 1672-3, as second wife), Fleetwood Dormer, b. May 21, 1616, son of Sir Fleetwood Dormer (obit. February 1, 1638), and Mary Isham, aunt of Henry Isham, who resided at Bermuda Hundred, Henrico Co., who m. Katherine Banks, relict of Joseph Royal; their issue being: (1) Henry Isham (obit. 1678), (2) Anne Isham, who m. Col. Francis Eppes, (3) Mary Isham, who m. Col. William Randolph, named as a ‘friend’ in the Will of Major William Harris, as was Thomas Cocke, son of Richard Cocke of Bremo. Fleetwood Dormer’s first wife was Katherine Ligon, second-cousin of Thomas Ligon, whose son and namesake married Mary Harris.
LIGON
1…
1.1. William Ligon, m. Eleanor Denys, dau. of Sir William Denys of Durham in Gloucestershire, and his wife, Anne, dau. of Maurice, Lord Berkeley, who died in 1506, and his wife, Isabel Meade.
1.1.1. Cicely Ligon, m. (1559), Edward Gorges, Esq., of Wroxall, born in 1537, died August 29, 1568, son of Edmund Gorges. They had a son Ferdinando Gorges, Knight, colonizer of Maine, born about 1565, died at Ashton Court, near Bristol, May 1647.
1.1.2. Katherine Ligon, m. Thomas Foliot, Sheriff of Worcestershire.
1.1.2.1. Constance Foliot, m. Edward Baugh, whose nephew, William Baugh, of Virginia, received a grant of 577 ac. for the transportation of 12 persons, including his son, William Baugh, Jr., on the N. side of the Appomattox River. (See Baugh pedigree, as follows). This land was near that of Major William Harris: “Mr. Baugh his line neigh ye Round Slash; N. N. W. 15 po. to Major Harris his cornor“. William Baugh Jr. was the father of Mary Baugh, b. ca. 1662, in Henrico Co., who m. John Cocke: Oct. 1, 1696: “John Cocke Jr, son of Richard Cocke Sr., of County & Parish of Henrico”. John Cocke Jr. was the br. of Thomas Cocke, named as a “friend” in the Will of Major William Harris. Richard Cocke Sr.
1.1.3. Thomas Ligon, m. (cousin) Frances Denys, whose Will was probated June 1, 1625 by her son Thomas. (P.C.C. 70)
1.1.3.1. Thomas Ligon m. Elizabeth Pratt 18 Aug 1623 in Walsgrave on Sowe, Warwickshire,
1.1.3.1.1. Lt. Col. Thomas Ligon, b. bef. Jan. 11, 1624, m. Mary Harris.
1.1.4. Richard Ligon.
1.1.4.1. John Ligon, born 1581 ; died 1644, of Arle Court, Cheltenham, Gloucester. His father Richard had settled on him Arle and other lands in Gloucestershire, He m. his cousin Elizabeth, dau. of Sir Arnold Lygon.
1.1.4.1.1. Katherine11 Ligon, his heir, m. Sir Fleetwood Dormer, who was a cornet in the Oxford regiment in the King’s service and fled to Virginia during the Commonwealth (Gloucester N&Q, vol. xi., p. 104). He is buried in Cheltenham. Katharine died Feb. 3, 1672-3, aged 72. (Rudder, Gloucestershire, p. 337); after which he m. Mary Harris, kinswoman of her namesake who m. Lt. Col. Thomas Ligon, supra.
1.2. Henry Ligon, 2nd son, born in 1524, in St. Leonard Upton, Gloucester. He m. Elizabeth, dau. of John Berkeley, of Stoke Gifford.
1.2.1. Arnold Ligon, knighted on July 23, 1603; sheriff of Worcestershire in 1608/9. He m. (1) Joan, widow of John Baker; (2) Margaret, dau. of Sir John Talbot of Grafton, and widow of his first cousin, Richard Lygon.
ROWLAND HARRIS
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2. Rowland Harris, of Ludlow, ob. 1605, m. on Sept. 14, 1595 Jane Langford, bapt. Oct. 10, 1567, dau. of Thomas Langford, gent. Jane Langford m. (2) Edward Lewis (bur. June 12, 1632, in Ludlow), of Sutton Magna. Edward Lewis was the father by a first wife (Anna, dau. of Thomas Blashfield) of Thomas Lewis, b. 1600, who is most likely recorded here: Hannah Boyse, dau. and heir of Luke Boyse, late of Henrico, decd., patented in Nov., 1635, 300 ac. in Henrico adjoining land of her mother Alice Edlowe; due 50 ac. for her personal adventure and 50 ac. for the personal adventure of her father, and 200 ac. for transportation of servants, viz.: “Thomas Lewis, Robert Hollum, Joseph Royall, Edward Holland, and Oliver Allen”. (Virginia Magazine, v., p. 97).
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1. John Harris, bapt. March 5, 1604. m. Margaret Holland, who seems to have named her children after her brother, William, and decd. sister, Mary.
HOLLAND
1. Roger Holland, m. Elinor Lewes, on Jan. 13, 1597/8, in Ludlow.
1.1. Richard Holland, bapt. Feb. 3, 1599/1600.
1.2. Samuel Holland, bapt. Nov.1, 1601.
1.3. Margaret Holland, bapt. Sept. 29, 1603, m. John Harris, bapt. March 5, 1603/4, son of Rowland Harris and Jane langford. She seems to have named her children after her brother, William, and deceased sister, Mary. John Harris was the son of Rowland Harris and Jane Langford.
1.4. William Holland, bapt. Sept. 1, 1605. B. 1, p. 40: “Cheney Boys e, 1550 acres Chrles City Co., land of May 1636, p. 352. N. upon the Li me hill, SW., W. upon Merchants Hope Cr., E. upon the maine woods and S. t owards the head of sd. Cr. 100 acres due as being an Ancient Planter befo re the time of Sir Thomas Dale, and 1450 acres for trans. of 29 pers :… William Holland, etc.”.
1.5. Mary Holland, bapt. Sept. 11, 1608; bur. Nov. 4, 1608.
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.1. Mary (Harris) Ligon. bapt. April 3, 1625, in St. Lawrence Church, Ludlow. In 1689, Mary (Harris) Ligon gave a deposition stating her age to be 64. Had the earliest of Harris researachers had access to the information available in the “computer age”, on this one point alone, they would not have looked further afield for the ancestry of this Harris family, for, diligent and intelligent researchers that they were, had they turned their attention to Ludlow and its environs they would have discovered the intricate relationships of this Harris family to those of Baugh, Cocke, Holland, Hudson, Ligon, et al., and not a single word would have been wasted about the fictitious association to Captain Thomas Harris of earliest Virginia on which fraudulent land claims were based at the end of the seventeenth century, as a previous article documented.
The English custom of claiming land on the basis of fraudulent deeds was an ancient and well-perfected one, and it continued in early Virginia. “Headright claims could be sold to someone else. In this case the original recipient’s name appears in the headright list as the basis of the claim of the other person … these headright lists were notoriously fraudulent and were sold and re-sold, and sometimes completely fabricated”. (Loretto Dennis Szucs, Sandra Hargreaves Luebking, eds., The Source, A Guidebook to American Genealogy, p. 486, 2006). “In addition to obtaining tracts using fraudulent or duplicate headrights, later-seventeenth-century elite planters devised a number of ways of engrossing land, including … bribing county clerks and provincial office clerks and surveyors to certify fake headright claims and false boundaries”. (Lorena S. Walsh, Motives of Honor, Pleasure, and Profit, 2012, p. 369).
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.1. Joan Ligon, m. Robert Hancock.
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1. Martha Hancock, m. Robert Hudson Jr., first cousin of John Hudson, who m. Elizabeth Harris.
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.2. Major William Ligon d. 1689, of “Malvern Hills”, named after the Malvern Hills area of Shropshire/Worcestershire. He m. Mary, dau.of Joseph Tanner, and Mary Platt; she m. (2) William Farrar, of Farrar’s Island, who d. April 3, 1721. Will of Edward Bowman was presented by Henry Featherstone and Edward Bowman, his executors, and proved by John Bolling, Jr. and Robert Hudson, Sr., and Edward Tanner (br. of the said Mary Tanner), three of the witnesses; Maj. William Kennon and Capt. Henry Randolph, security; Edward Stratton,* William Ligon, Robert Elam, Edward Haskins to appraise estate (Minute Book, 1719-1724, p. 196). Joseph Tanner probably m. Mary Browne, who m. (2) Gilbert Platt, who bequested in his Will, rec. June 1, 1692, to his son-in-law, Edward Osborne, of Henrico, who had m. Tabitha Platt, his dau. by Joseph Tanner’s relict. William and Mary College brought a suit against Benjamin Branch, “as the executor of Edward Osborne, who married the executor of John Brown, presumably the father of Gilbert Platt’s wife, and of Martha (2nd wife of *Edward Stratton, of Henrico), whose Will, rec. April 1, 1696, mentions sister Mary Platt. and her dau., Mary Ligon (wife of William Ligon).
LIGON AND TANNER
Thomas Ligon,* m. Mary Harris. He patented land on Powell’s Creek adj. that of Thomas Jones, who, by wife Mary Repps, had issue, Thomas Jones Jr., and Elizabeth Jones, who m. Philip Turpin. Mary Repps m. (2) Edward Skerme in 1680 in Henrico Co. “We Mary Skerm of Bermooda Hundred, Henrico Co., and Thomas Jones, my son, agree to peacably occupy land which was my husband’s, Thos. Jones, dec’d, bounded by the river and the high road, called The Hundred Path, equally. Mary Skerme to hold the part joining the creek toward Wm Ligon, and Thomas Jones, the part joining the swamp”, Aug. 9, 1684. Thomas Jones Jr. m. Martha, dau. of Joseph Tanner and Mary Shippey. His will, dated Jan. 1688/9, was witnessed by Edward Skerme. Martha Tanner Jones m. (2), Edward Haskins, in 1686. In 1694, Martha Haskins and her sister, Mary Ligon, wife of William Ligon, conveyed a tract of land bequeathed to them by their father Joseph Tanner, decd., on the S. side of the James River (on Hell Garden Bottom Run) adj. Mr. Richard Kennon, witnessed by Thomas Ligon and Mary Platt.
Thomas Jones and Martha Tanner’s, dau., Lucretia, m. Henry Childers, son of Abraham Childers and Anne Pew. On Nov. 26, 1680, Abraham Childers Jr. exchanged lands with John Pleasants Sr. The latter was to receive 548 acres on Four Mile Creek, and 900 lb. of tobacco. In return, he conveyed to Pleasants 140 acres: “being the whole dividend purchased of my father, Abra. Childers of Major William Harris, of Curles” (Swamp). The land Major Harris conveyed was on Curles Neck, on the side of Morgan’s landing: Wm. Harris to Abraham Childers …. “the parcel of land he now lives on-beginning at a pine tree a little above the houses of the said Childers & standing by the river, & on the lower side of Morgan’s Landing, and soe running down the river to the swamp at the old garden, and thence into Morgan’s along the main side to the nutt trees, and thence along the side of the swamp & ye meadow side to an oake tree as one goes into the meadow close by the cart path, from thence on a straight line into the pasture to a parcel of oakes standing in a ridge. Feb. 28, 1656. Wit. John Eppes, Thomas Ligon, (pp. 269-70). This land was neither “Curles” nor “Longfield”, nor “Longfield which later became Curles”, as an elaborate myth attached to the family of Major William Harris suggested. In this transaction there is no mention of a father of Major William Harris.
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.2.1. William Ligon II., presumably, by process of elimination, m. Mary Bridgewater, of a Ludlow family, as given. 1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.2.1.1. William Ligon III. 1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.2.1.1.1. Richard Ligon. 1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.2.1.1.2. Thomas Ligon. Richard and Thomas Ligon were associated with John Baldwin, whose dau. m. Graves Harris (a descendant of Major William Harris). 1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.2.1.1.3. Joseph Ligon.
Samuel Hudson and Drusilla his wife of Amelia Co. to Joseph Ligon of Henrico Co. for £100, 119 ac. on south side of James R., known as Roxdale, bounded by Roxdale Swamp, land of Robert Hancock, formerly Edward Bowman’s, wit. Tarlton Woodson, John Archer; signed Samuel Hudson and Drusilla Hudson; rec. Oct. 6, 1735. (Wills and Deeds 1725-1737, p. 505).
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.2. Thomas Ligon, m. Elizabeth, dau. of John Worsham, and sister of Phoebe Worsham, who m. William Eppes, son of Col. Francis Eppes and Ann, dau. of Henry Isham Sr. and Katherine Banks. As given, Mary Harris was the second wife of Fleetwood Dormer, cousin of Henry Isham Sr. Ann Isham was the sister of Mary Isham, who m. Col. William Randolph, named as a ‘friend’ in the Will of Major William Harris. Fleetwood Dormer’s first wife was Katherine Ligon, second-cousin of Thomas Ligon, whose son and namesake m. Mary Harris (second-cousin of Mary Harris Dormer), sister of Major William Harris. John Worsham was the br. of Sarah Worsham, who m. Abrahan Womack, having issue: Richard Womack and William Womack, who m. Mary, dau. of Joseph Woodson, son of Robert Woodson, and br. of Elizabeth Woodson, who m. William Lewis, close kin of Major William Harris.
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.2. Major William Harris, bapt. Jan. 13, 1627, in St. Lawrence, Ludlow. On June 22, 1663, Major William Harris acquired 450 ac. in Henrico County, on the north side of the James River, to a 4 mile creek, called by name “the Slashes”, adj. the Malverne Hills plantation of Richard Cocke (B. 1, 1677-1692, p. 304).
COCKE
1.
1.1. William Cocke, Will 1582.
1.1.1. John Cocke, b. ante Oct. 9, 1569. His Will was witnessed by Michael Holland, of Pickthorn.
1.1.1.1. Richard Cocke,* of ‘Bremo/Malvern Hills’, Virginia, 1597-1665,
1.1.1.1.1. Thomas Cocke, named as a “friend” in the Will of Major William Harris.
1.2. Thomas Cocke. Will 1587; named as a tenant in Pickthorn in the marriage settlement of Robert Purslowe of Sudbury Esq – for a marriage between his son John Purslowe with Constance, daughter of Richard Newport Esq of Honnyngton (Warks) deceased. May 2, 1566. (S.A., 6000/2591).
1.2.1. Alice Cocke, m. Thomas Holland. Indenture dated Sept. 20, 1598. Between (1) Robert Purslowe of Sudbury, Esq., (2) Thomas Holland of Pyckthorne gent. & Ales his wife. Covenant to levy a Fine & Recovery of the capital messuage or farm in Pickthorn called the farm of Pickthorne, with the motte or pool adjoining & all lands etc. … to the use of Thomas Holland for the lives of Ales, Michael H, & John H. (sons). (S.A., 6000/1918).
1.2.1.1. William Holland, bapt. at Burwarton (3 m. fr. Pickthorn), in 1574, d. 1642.
1.2.1.1.1. Alice Holland, m., in 1632, Thomas Harris, Esq., of Prescot*.
(1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.3. Arthur Harris, m. Jane Newton, of Prescot, Shropshire
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.3.1. Thomas Harris, Esq., of Prescot, m. (1632), Alice Holland, dau. of *William Holland, bapt. (1574) at Burwarton, and buried there in 1642).
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.2.1. William Harris, b. ca. 1670. Associated in Hanover County with George Alves, who had married the widow of Maj. William Harris, with his brother Edward Harris and with Michael Holland (St Pauls Vestry).
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.2.1.1. Elizabeth Harris,* bapt. Nov. 27, 1698, in St Pauls Parish, m. John Hudson,* b. ca. 1690.
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.2.1.2. George Harris, bapt. Apr. 13 1701, in St Pauls Parish. In 1719 his land adj. that of George Alvis, who had married the widow of Major William Harris – his step-grandfather. (St. Pauls Vestry Bk.).
HUDSON AND BOWMAN
1. Richard Hudson, m. Mary Bowman, in 1658.
1.1. Robert Hudson, b. in 1662 (19 years old on May 25, 1681), m. Martha. He d. Jan. 25, 1757. Feb. 1, 1712: Nuncupative Will of *Mary Ligon: “Martha Hudson to have charge of daughter Martha“. Wit: James Cocke, Edward Heathcott, and Martha Hudson, p. 138.
1.1.1. John Hudson, of Henrico, m. Ann Robertson. Oct. 9, 1731: John Hudson to Samuel Hudson, for £50, 46 ac. at Roxdale, where Robert Hudson now lives. Wit: William Robinson, Joseph Russell, John Green. Signed: John Hudson; Ann, wife of John relinquishes her dower rights. Rec. May 1732, p. 341.
1.2. William Hudson b. Feb 19, 1666/67, inherited part of his father’s “Roxdale” tract on coming of age in 1689. 27 Nov 1701, Henrico, inventory of William Hudson, appraised by Thomas Chamberlain, Arthur Moseley, Abraham Womeck, Sr., Edward Stanley; presented in court by Elizabeth, relict of William Hudson (Wills and Deeds 1697-1704, p. 261).
1.2.1. John Hudson, ca. 1690-1732., m. Elizabeth Harris. Oct. 9, 1731, granddau. of Major William Harris.
1.2.1.1. William Hudson, of Prince Edward. His Will, pr. Apr. 21, 1800, named daus., Francis Wheeler and Sarah Harris.
1.2.1.1.1. Frances Hudson m. Mark Wheeler.
1.2.1.1.1.1. Elizabeth Wheeler m. Graves Harris, her first cousin.
1.2.1.2. Charles Hudson, b. ca. 1720, d. June 10, 1737: Charles Hudson of Hanover Co., Gent., to Michael Woods of Goochland Co., for £90, 2000 ac. on branches of Joy Cr. on Rivanna R., bounded by Michael Holland, and granted to said Hudson on 26 July 1735. Signed: Charles Hudson. Rec. Sept. 1737, p. 52.
HARRIS cont.
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.2.1.2.1. William Harris, of Wolf Swamp, probably m. a dau. of John Graves, and Lucy, dau. of Robert Adams and Mourning Lewis, or his brother Mathew Graves, who m. Lucy’s sister Susannah.
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.2.1.2.1.1. George Harris (b. ca. 1750), m. Sarah, dau. of William Hudson, of Prince Edward. Their son Graves Harris m. Elizabeth Wheeler; three of their children married Hollands, descendants of Michael Holland of Goochland.
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.2.1.2.1.1.1. Graves Harris m. Elizabeth Wheeler, his first cousin.
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.2.1.2.1.2. Graves Harris, m. Elizabeth Baldwin, dau. of John Baldwin Jr.* July 22, 1797: Indenture betw. Thomas Elmore, Efford Bentley, William Wood, James Gills, Thomas Ligon, etc., of Amelia Co., trustees of Ligons Town, sell to Levy Wright one lot situate in the above mentioned town. Wit. Richard Ligon, Thomas Ligon, *John Baldwin. (Amelia co., D.B. 20, pp. 303-4). These Ligons were sons of William Ligon III., d. bef. Oct. 27, 1796, in Amelia Co., son of Wiliam Ligon II, d. 1764, in Amelia Co; son of Maj. William Ligon and Mary Tanner; son of Colonel Thomas Ligon, son of Thomas Ligon and Mary Harris, bapt. April 3, 1625, in Ludlow. John Baldwin was a descendant of Charles Baldwyn, of Stokesay Castle (b. 1593), who m. (1617) a sister of Mary Holland, dau. of Francis Holland of Burwarton (fl. 1606), he being a brother of Thomas Holland, who m. Alice Holland, second-cousin of Richard Cocke, of Pickthorne, Shropshire, and Bremo, Virginia.
1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.2.1.2.1.3. Ralph Harris, m. 2) Agnes Baldwin, sister of Elizabeth Baldwin.
SHARRETT AND BOWMAN
1. Raffe Sharrett, m. Elizabeth Cowell, on May 29, 1574, in Ludlow. He was bur. on March 28, 1597.
1.1. Elizabeth Sharrett, bapt. Nov. 17, 1576.
1.2. Margaret Sharrett, bapt. March 10, 1577/8, m. (1) William Baldwin, on Sept. 19, 1590; (2) Henry Walker, on. June 3, 1598, having issue: William Walker, bapt. on June 8, 1600. Henry Walker was probably closely related to Roger Walker, whose son, John Walker, was bapt. Dec. 3, 1608, and who m. Elizabeth Harman, on Feb. 18, 1634/5; and who was the probable brother of Margaret Walker, who m. Rowland Holland, on Sept. 29, 1636. John Walker and Elizabeth had issue: (1) John Walker (bapt. Aug. 4, 1644, d. 1688), who had issue: William Walker, bapt. June 2, 1667. (2) Ann Walker, who m. William Price, on Dec. 12, 1664. (3) George Walker, who m. Catherine Rider, on Jan. 1, 1684/5.
1.3. William Sharrett, bapt. Feb. 14, 1579/80.
1.3.1. William Sharrett, bapt. Feb. 23, 1605/6, m. Joyce …
1.3.1.1. Margaret Sharratt, bapt. March 19, 1636/7, m. Roger Norgrove, on Feb. 2, 1665/6. “Roger Norgrove baptised with brother, William”, on Oct. 13, 1639; sons of Humphrey Norgrove and Joan Greenhouse, m. June 27, 1637.
1.3.1.2. Elizabeth Sharratt, bapt. May 13, 1643, m. Evan Davies, on June 10, 1663. He m. Elinor Pugh, on Jan 15,1670/1.
1.3.2. Ralph Sharratt, bapt. April 24, 1608, m. Martha Bowman, on Dec. 24, 1641. Bowman v Gittins. Plaintiffs: William Bowman and Elizabeth Bowman his wife. Defendants: William Gittins and Joan Gittins his wife. Subject: legacy under the will of the deceased Thomas Harper, Shropshire. 1619. (C 3/301/12). Anne Harper, m. John Baldwin, on Feb. 11, 1632/3, in Ludlow.
SKIRME OF LUDLOW AND VIRGINIA
1.
1.1. Richard Skirme. “Richard Skyrme gent, bur. March 23, 1624/5”. 1. Thomas Brome of Brome gentleman. 2. Adry Hughes of Ludlowe spinster. Consideration: £70. Feoffment in a messuage and tenement and the backside orchard and garden adjoining in the town of Ludlowe in a lane or street called the Brande Lane, in breadth between one messuage and backside (late Edward Davies deceased, now Richard Mitton, esq.). Witnesses to sealing and to livery of sealing: Rychard Skyrme, John Jones, Beniamin Cosyn, Francis Skirme, John Jones. Feb. 18, 1621. (Shrop. Arch., 1623/18).
1.1.1. Richard Skirme, bapt. Oct. 2, 1583.
1.2. George Skyrme, m. Elsabeth Sharratt, on Sept. 23, 1598.
1.2.1. William Skerme.
1.2.1.1 William Skirme, bapt. Dec. 10, 1636.
1.2.2. Richard Skyrme, bur. Jan. 17, 1642/3.
1.2.2.1. Richard Skerme, b. ca. 1625.
1.2.2.1.1. Edward Skerme, of Virginia.
BRIDGEWATER AND HARRIS, OF LUDLOW, AND LIGON
1. Edward Bridgwater, bur. July 10, 1612, in Ludlow. He m. Ellen …
1.1. Thomas Bridgewater, m. Hannah Shepherd, Sept. 17, 1611. Thomas Bridgewater, gent., of Leinthall Starkes “apud Ludlowe”. 1636. (Heref, Arch., F76/I/50).
1.2. John Bridgewater, m. Mary Wood, on June 8, 1614.
Bargain and sale: (1) William Higgins of Trippleton of Leynterdine, Herefs. and wife Elionore. (2) Sir Chas. Foxe of Bromfield, kt. (3) Richard Shermond of Ludlow, gent., and Nich. Keysell of Hawford yeo. (1) to (2), messuage and tenement with lands belonging in Elton, Herefs., now in occ. Thos. Gybbs, 1 messuage, tenement etc. in Leyntall Starkes Herefs. now or late in occ. Rich. Atcheley. (3) will present writ sur disseisin in le post against 2 in the court of Common Pleas so that 2 may be granted a common recovery against 1 with 3 as vouchees. 1 guarantees premises free from incumbrances etc. entered into by (1), or his uncle, John Higgins, his father or grandfather. Recites lease for lives of 1 Apr. 36 Eliz.I (1594) by John Higgins to Richd. Atcheley, Ellen Bridgewaters,, widow, and John Bridgewater, of premises in Leyntall Strakes at 30s. p.a. now payable to (2)., and lease of May 14,1604 of the premises in Elton made by (1) to Thos. Gybbs and Anne Gybbs for lives at 10s. p.a. now payable to (2). Sig tag and seal of Wm. Higgins, mark tag and seal of Elionore Higgins. 1610. (Shrop. Arch., 20/12/7).
1.3.1. Edward Bridgewater, b. ca. 1620.
1.3.1.1. Samuel Bridgewater of Virginia?, b. ca. 1650. Conveyance from Samuel Bridgewater, carpenter, to three sons, Samuel, Benjamin and Thomas , and two daughters, Mary and Elizabeth Bridgewater. Dec. 2, 1689. (Mr. Crozier, Virginia County Records, p. 18, 2015).
1.3.1.1.1. Mary Bridgewater, b. ca. 1680, m. William Ligon. Mary (Harris) Ligon’s Will, dated Feb.1, 1711/12, leaves: “my brother Thomas Bridgewater* care of my oldest daughter Elizabeth”.
1.3.1.1.2. *Thomas Bridgewater, brother of Mary Harris Ligon’s grandson’s wife.
CORBET cont.
1.1.1.2. Sir Robert Corbet* of Wattlesborough and Moreton, Sheriff of Shropshire in 1288; died, 1300. He m. Matilda de Arundel, who d. in 1309.
1.1.1.2.1. Thomas Corbet of Wattlesborough, d. 1310, under twenty-nine years of age.
1.1.1.2.1.1. Sir Robert Corbet of Wattlesborough, b. 1304, d. 1375; m. Elizabeth, daughter of Fulk le Strange, 1st Baron Strange and Eleanor Giffard.
Robert Corbet of Morton knight to William de la Lee of Pymenhull. Quitclaim of all right to land in the vill and fields of Wilderdehope which he had by feoffment from Robert de Harley. No witnesses. Given at Wylderdehope. Sunday next after the feast of St Ambrose (4 April) 38 Edward III (1364). (S.A., 165/66).
1.1.1.2.1.1.1. Fulk Corbet, d. August 4, 1382. (Brother of Sir Roger Corbet, who had issue, Robert Corbet, Sheriff of Shropshire; b. Dec. 8, 1383; d. Aug. 12, 1420, who m. Margaret dau. of John Burley, having isue: Roger Corbet, who m. Elizabeth, dau. of Sir Thomas Hopton. Elizabeth bore him two sons and three daughters; the elder son, Sir Richard Corbet, was born in 1448. Elizabeth m. (2) John Tiptoft, 1st Earl of Worcester, and (3), Sir William Stanley.
Elizabeth’s brother, Walter, fought beside Edward of York at Mortimer’s Cross in February. 1461, the prelude to York’s taking the throne. Other supporters of York, William Hastings, Walter Devereux, William Herbert, all associates of Walter Hopton, were ennobled, but Hopton died in 1461 , leaving his sister heir to their father’s estates and to half those of their mother Eleanor’s brother, Sir William Lucy, who died in 1461.
The said Sir Richard Corbet (d. 1493), m. Elizabeth, dau. of Sir Walter Devereux, 1st Lord Ferrers of Chartley, who m. (2), in 1494, Sir Thomas Leighton, Sheriff of Shropshire, son of John Leighton, Esq. (Sheriff and Escheater of Shropshire), and Ankaret Burgh.* The said Sir Thomas Leighton had issue, by his mistress, Ann Baker, Margaret Leighton, who m. John Harrys, ancestor of Major William Harris of Virginia, undoubtedly.
Barbara Coulton, “The wives of Sir William Stanley: Joan Beaumont and Elizabeth Hopton”, Richard III. Society, 1992, pp. 315-318:
“Richard Corbet was ward of Walter Devereux Lord Ferrers at Weobley in Herefordshire where Ferrers’ sister Lady Anne Herbert, Countess oF Pembroke, brought her charge, Henry Tudor, from Raglan after the death of her husband at Warwick’s hands. When Jasper Tudor came to Hereford, Corbet ‘was one of those who brought Tudor’s nephew Henry to him. Richard Corbet was knighted at Tewkesbury in May 1471 by which date he was of age,’ so William Stanley did not have control of the Corbet lands”.
“His (William Stanley’s) second marriage also extended the range of his contacts in the Marches through the Corbet family. Elizabeth Hopton’s two older daughters were married into prominent Shrewsbury families, the Thames and Sturys, and her son Sir Richard married the only daughter of Lord Ferrers. This created links with the Herberts: Anne Countess of Pembroke was a loved and respected head of her family and her eldest daughter, Maud, became Countess of Northuinberland when Henry Percy was restored — he had been at Raglan in Lord Herbert’s custody in 1468-9. The youngest Corbet daughter, Elizabeth, married Richard Cholmondcley, heir of Sir William Stanley’s neighbour in Cheshire where he built his ‘right goodly house of stone and tymbre’ in Ridley Park, east of Holt”.
“Elizabeth Hopton’s estates were not far from Ludlow; her younger Corbet son, Robert, may have lived at Hopton Castle since he held appointments in the area: constable of the castles of Wigmore and Radnor, steward of various royal lordships, forester of Corndon and Radnor, and parker of Wigmore”.
“At that time her eldest son and probably her husband were involved in the planning which brought Henry Tudor to the throne. Sir Richard Corbet was certainly a whole-hearted supporter, paying allegiance to Henry Tudor at Shrewsbury and going in the company of 800 gentlemen and other friends to risk all at Bosworth”.
1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1. Elizabeth Corbet, of Wattlesborough, dau. and heiress, b. 1375, d. 1403. She m. John de la Pole ap William ap Griffin ap William de la Pole, Lord of Mawddwy in the county of Merioneth, fourth son of Griffin ap Wenwynwyn, Prince of Powis.
1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1. Fulk de la Pole of Wattlesborough, and Lord of Mawddwy, who, dying without issue, circa 1414, was succeeded by his sister and sole heiress.
1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1.2. Elizabeth de la Pole, of Wattlesborough, and Lady of Mawddwy, m. Hugh Burgh.
1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1.2.1. Sir John Burgh., of Wattlesborough, and Lord of Mawddwy, whose second dau. and coheir by his first wife, Jane, dau. and coheir of Sir William Clopton of Clopton and Radbroke, co. Gloucester, viz., Ankeret, m. John Leighton, as given. Sir William Clopton was the son of John Clopton and Juliana (dau.of John Morehall and Agnes, dau. of Sir Walter Beysin), who subsequently married Thomas de Crewe. She was bur. at St Milburga’s Church, Wixford, Warwickshire.
1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1.2.1.1. *Ankeret Burgh, m. John Leighton, of Leighton.
1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.1. Sir Thomas Leighton, of Wattlesborough; sheriff of Shropshire in 1495, m. Elizabeth Devereux.
1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1. Margaret Leighton (by his mistress, Ann Baker), m. John Harrys. As given heretofore.
1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.1.2. John Leighton (by Elizabeth Devereux), of Wattlesborough, M.P. for Shropshire.
1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1. Sir Edward Leighton, of Wattlesborough.
1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1. Thomas Leighton of Wattlesborough, m. Elizabeth Gerrard.
1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Robert Leighton of Wattlesborough, d. 1625, m. Anne, dau. of Sir Edward Devereux of Castle Bromwich.
1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Edward Leighton of Wattlesborough, d. 1636, m. Abigail, dau. of William Stephens of Shrewsbury.
1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Robert Leighton of Wattlesborough, M.P. for Shrewsbury in 1661; Sheriff of Shropshire in 1688; died in 1689. He m. Gertrude, dau. of Edward Baldwin of Diddlebury.
Returning to:
1.1.1.1. Petronella Corbet, m. Thomas de la Lee,* supra.
He appears to have been the brother of a Reynor/Reginald de Lee, father of a John de Lee,* who has falsely been recorded in Tresswell’s Visitation (1623) to have been the husband of Matilda de Erdington. Visitation records are of variable quality, and are often “composed” by a descendant living 10 generations after those being commemorated. Monumental inscriptions in churches might have provided clues to the earliest generations, but gaps were often filled by the imaginitive use of names that survived.
He m. Petronilla, dau. of Stephen de Stanton, who, as a minor, in 1255, was a ward of Thomas de la Lee by the gift of John FitzAlan, his suzerain. (Rot. Hundred. 57). Thus, if Stephen de Stanton was born, say, 1240, he would have been of age ca. 50 years when he was the father of Petronilla, the wife of John Lee*, as follows,
In 5 Edw. II. (1312). “Thomas de Lee and Petronilla his wife give to John de Lee and to Matilda, daughter of Henry de Erdinton, all their land, whether sown or unsown, in Roden.” A Fine of April 16, 1312, further explains this Deed.—Thomas de Lee and Petronilla his wife, Deforciants of the Manor of Rodene, the right of Petronilla, settle the same on John de Lee, and his wife, Matilda, daughter of Henry de Erdinton, &c. (as in the entail stated under Roden). I take it that *John de Lee, thus married, came of age about this period”. (Eyton 9, 298, 1859).
“Petronilla, widow of Thomas de la Lee, and daughter and heir of Stephen de Stanton, was found to have disseized John, son of Reyner de Lee, of a messuage and carucate in Stanton.” By a Fine, levied April 22, 1319, it would almost seem that Petronilla’s son, John, having obtained Stanton under the Deed of 1310-11, had alienated it to John Corbet of Preston, and that Petronilla was now obliged to repurchase it for 100 merks. The Fine is between Robert de Acton, Attorney of Petronilla, widow of Thomas de Lee (Plaintiff), and the said John Corbet, Deforciant, of the Manor of Staunton super Hyneheth, whereof was Suit-atlaw. John Corbet surrendered it to Petronilla, to hold for life of the Lords of the fee, with remainder to her son John and his bodily heirs”, ibid. (At this point, it can be commented that this Lee pedigree seems to be a missing a generation; otherwise a man/men of advanced age had children by a younger second wife).
1.1.1.1. Sir John de la Lee, m. Matilda de Erdington. He was the brother of Thomas de la Lee. By undated Deed, Thomas du Lee, Lord of Stanton, and his wife Petronilla, give to Thomas du Lee, their son, a messuage in the vill of Stanton, with remainder, on Thomas’s death without heirs, to Stephen his brother, with remainder, on Stephen’s death without heirs, to Philip du Lee and his heirs. Stanton-on-Hine-Heath, North Bradford Hundred.—This was held at Domesday by Rainald the Sheriff, and under him by Ricardus, the probable ancestor of the De Stantons, who afterwards held this manor, from which they took their name. William de Stanton, lord of Stanton from 1221 to 1236, gave the advowson of the Church there, with a messuage and 3 acres of land to Haughmond Abbey. In 1255, Stephen de Stanton (III.) held the manor under the Fitz Alans by service of a knight for 40 days at Oswestry, at his own cost. Stephen de Stanton (III.) died before 1284, leaving an only daughter, Petronilla, afterwards the wife of Thomas de Lee, and the Stanton estates passed to their son, Sir John de Lee, ancestor of the Lees of Langley. Thomas de Lee died in 1318, and apparently Hugh de Say held Preston Boats and Stanton in 1327, under John de Lee, of Roden. Possibly he married Thomas’s widow, whom we know to have been living as late as 1332. William de Titteleye, in 1331, was found to have unjustly dis-seized John, grandson of Reyner de la Lee, of a messuage, carucate, and 28 acres of meadow in Stanton. (Trans. Shrop. Arch. p. 200, 1889).
(The ancestor of the Stantons is unknown. *Ricardus, the probable ancestor of the De Stantons is a typical 19th century “ancestor came with the Conqueror” claim, the truth of which which is as rare as an American claims of descent from an “ancient planter” – 5-10 in both cases.
1.1.1.1.1. Roger de la Lee, given as eldest (“primus”) son in the “Visitation”, but this is not certain. Roger was the brother of William, heretofore noticed, and Thomas de Lee:
June 1341. Omnibus, Fidelibus etc.” John de Lee Lord of Byreton quit claims to Thomas his son all his right in a place of land in the Manor of Stanton called Okehurste. Witnesses: Sir Harmon le Strange, Stephen de Lee, John de Berwyke. (S.A., 1341 6000/10786). Thomas had another brother, Roger. “Pateat universis’ etc Roger de la Lee son and heir of John de la Lee releases etc to the Abbot and convent of Haghmon all his right etc. in lands etc in Hadenhale which Hugh de la Chene once held. Witnesses: Peter Corbet of Morton, John de Lodelowe, Peter de Caverswall, kts, Richard Husee, Will Banastre of Yorton, Edmund de Burghton”. (S.A., 6000/5432).
ROBERT LEE, LORD OF RODON AND LANGLEY
1.1.1.1.1.1. *Robert Lee, b. ca. 1365.
He m. Petronilla, b. ca. 1380.
December 10, 1408. Manor of Staunton. Monday before the feast of St. Lucy 10 Henry IV. Robert Lee lord of Rodon and Petronilla his wife grant and farm let to John Hugyns and his wife the Manor of Staunton on Hyneheth with all lands, demesnes etc., except ponds and the conynger and pleas and perquisites of the lord’s court of his tenants there. To hold to John and his wife for the life of both and of the longer liver. (S.A., X1514/3/27/473).
1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Ralph de Lee, of Roden and Langley, b. ca. 1410; d. December 5, 1479.
Aug. 4, 1439. Sciant presentes’ etc. Petronilla widow of Robert Lee of Longley esq and Ralph Lee of Longley, son and heir, give etc to Thomas Banastre of Hadnale and Elizabeth his wife their kinsfolk, all their lands in Hadnale. To have etc to them and their heirs with remainder to the rightful heirs of Thomas. Witnesses: William Boerley of Bromcroft, Roger Corbet of Morton, John Wynnesbury, Thomas Newport, Nicholas Eyton, Thomas Cherleton, Richard Hord, Richard Gery, Richard Husee. (S.A., X6000/28/2/5439). Roger Corbet m. Elizabeth Hopton, who subsequently m. Sir William Stanley, as given herein.
July 3, 1459. Ralf Lee. 1. Thomas Corbet of Lye, Hewe Stepulton, 2. Rauf Lee, Richard Lee. Thomas and Hewe grant to Rauf and Richard all the lands and tenements they have in the lordship of Longeley, except the wood and the `quaral’ that belongs to the part of Hewe Stepulton. To hold to Rauf and Richard and their heirs forever, paying to Thomas and Sewe and their heirs 7 marks p.a. at Michaelmas and the Annunciation by even parts for all demands and services. (S.A., X1514/3/1/9/157).
CONNECTIONS TO SHREWSBURY DRAPERS’ COMPANY
Shrewsbury Drapers’ Company Deeds. Grant & quitclaim of land outside walls of Shrewsbury. 26th April. 34th Henry VI. Ralph Lee of Shropshire grants & quitclaims lands, meadows, pasturage & pastures outside the walls of Shrewsbury to Roger Wyswall. Witnesses: Roger Eyton & John Trentham, bailiffs; Richard Stury; Robert Scryven. April 26, 1456. (S.A., X1831/2/10/2). Bond – statue merchant. William son of John Mason of Roden, yeoman, is bound to Ralph Lee of Langeley, esq. in £100 to be paid on Michaelmas next. Borough of Shrewsbury seal. Salop 4 August 15 Edward IV (1475). (S.A., 1514/420).
Acton Burnell Deeds. Bond – statue merchant. William son of John Mason of Roden, yeoman, is bound to Ralph Lee of Langeley, esq. in £100 to be paid on Michaelmas next. Borough of Shrewsbury seal. Date: Salop 4 August 15 Edward IV (1475). (S.A., 1514/420).
Aug. 23, 1468. Grant 1. John Howell, son & heir of Thos. Howell of Condover decd. 2. Richd. Walker, chaplain, kinsman and heir of 1. 1 to 2 all lands, tenements, rents and services in town and fields of Condover and Drayton. To hold of the Chief Lord of the fee for ever for the due and accustomed services. Witnesses: Ralph Lee, Thos. Acton, John Leghton, Robt. Scryven Thos. Stone, John Malle, Hugh Hosier of Salop draper, and others Dat: Condover. (S.A., XPHIL/4229/1/9). John Leghton was the grandfather of Margaret Leighton, wife of John Harris.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Richard Lee, b. ca. 1440; d. 1520.
He m. Margery, dau. of Sir Fulke Sprenchose, and Margery, dau. of John Wynnesbury, Sheriff of Shrop.
March 20, 1451. ‘Sciant presentes etc’. Thomas Leighton of Stretton, Kt, Thomas Acton of Longnor Esq, Thomas Poynar of Bessclowe Esq and William Wolf, clerk, demise etc to William Poynar of Westley and Joan, his wife, their messuages in Westley which they had of Thomas. Poynar of Westley by charter (21 Edward IV 1480). Witnesses: Richard Lee Esq, Peter Newton Esq. (S.A., X6000/53/1/6661).
Oct. 4, 1479. Edward Leghton, Esq., is bound to Richard Lee, Esq. in 4 marks to be paid to Richard or his executors on the feast of St. Michael next. If Edward within one year and a day after the bond purchases lands and tenements to the value of 40/- p.a. and makes a sure estate to Edward and Elizabeth his wife and the heirs of their bodies of such landsand tenements, then the obligation is to be void. (S.A., X1514/B/1/2).
1482. Robert Cresset of Upton, Salop, Esq., has received from Richard Lee of Longley, Esq. 20 marks in satisfaction of one obligation in which Richard was bound to Robert in 20 marks of which sum he is quit. (S.A., X1514/B/1/3).
Nov. 20 1482. Quit claim by Richard Alkok vicar of Condover to Richard Lee equire. Of all his right in his lands tenements in Aldefeld within the lordship of Condover. Witnesses. Thomas Horde esquire steward there, John Adams, William Adams, John Harries, Roger Goxennell, and others. At Condover. (S.A., 1482 X465/2/3/1/477).
FULK LEE
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Fulk Lee, b. ca. 1460.
He m. (1) Elizabeth (dau. of John Leighton), and sister of Thomas Leighton, father of Margaret Leighton, wife of John Harris of Cruckton.
1487. Fulk Lee, son and heir of Richard Lee of Langeley, Esq. (Langley, 10 miles from Cruckton). Elizabeth his wife, Thomas Leghton, knt. William Leghton and John Horde, gentlemen, feoffees in all the lands and tenements of Richard in the township and fields of Alderton. 2. Walter Amys of Alderton. A messuage in the township of Alderton Witnesses: John Downton of Alderton, Thomas Hochekys of the same, Thomas Draper of Burghton. (S.A., X1514/3/22/1/409)
Jan. 12, 1520. Release by Richard Lee Senr. of Astwall in the parish of Eton, gent. to Alice Lee, widow, of Fulk Lee, and Thomas Lee son of Fulk, of all his right in the lordships of Bemyshall and Donynton. (S.A., X1514/3/12/308).
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Thomas Lee, b. ca. 1500; d. 1562; m. 1) Jane, dau. of Sir Robert Corbet, of Moreton Corbet, and Elizabeth, dau. of Sir Henry Vernon and Anne Talbot, dau. of John Talbot, 2nd Earl Shrewsbury and Elizabeth Butler.
May 26, 1557. Award by Richard Newport, William Gatacre, and Walter Wrottesley, between Thomas Lee of Langley and John Nooke of Donyngton (1) and Richard Ballard of Lichefeld, yeoman, Roger Derne and Anne his wife, tailor, of Donyngton, confirming the title to a parcel of land in Donyngton called Barne Lees and Barne Lees Medoo and of a meese and a certain number of acres of land in Kylsall. (S.A., XSHA/1781/2/2/3/1/14).
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Richard Lee of Langley, b. ca. 1530.
Feb. 1562. 1. The Hon. Sir William Cecil, knt, Master of the Queen’s Court of Ward and Liveries. 2. Richard Lee, Esq., son & heir of Thomas Lee Esq., decd. The Queen has agreed to grant to Rd Lee livery to be had of & in all the manors, lordships etc. which sd Rd has inherited from sd Thos Lee. Rd has agreed that an account shall be rendered of the lordships by one of the Queen’s auditors at such time as the Queen or the Master or Surveyor shall please, to value the lordships. Schedule of property attached:- Manors of Berrington, Langley, Boden, Donington, Stanton, a capital messuage called Lee, a house in Leyton, a watermill in Gretton, & lands in Middeley, Derby, Ruckley (Whetalls). Preene, Shawbury, and lands and tenements in the manors above. (S.A., X1514/3/1/1/11 1.).
Dec. 10, 1590 Recital of indenture of 4 April 32 Elizabeth (1590) between Richard Lee (1) Alice Corbett of Stoke on Terne, widow of Reginald Corbette, and Richard Corbett of Moreton Corbett (2), and William Leighton of Plashe (3). Lee covenanted before 1 July next to levy a fine of the Manor of Donington and of a messuage, farm or tenement at Astwall in the parishes of Eaton and Rusheburie (William Owen) to Richard Corbett and William Leighton, to uses declared. It is provided that if Lee wishes he can appoint that his wife can hold after Richard Lee’s death the Manor of Donington and farm in Astwall for the jointure of Margaret Corbett, and Richard Corbett and William Leighton are to be seised of the same to such a use. Now Lee limits and appoints that Margaret Lee, now his wife, shall after the death of Richard Lee hold the Manor of Donington and farm in Astwall appointed as her jointure, the trustees holding them to these uses. Witnesses: Martha Trobell, Alice Corbett, John Avery, John Iremoger. (S.A., XSHA/1781/2/2/2/7
1487. Will of Richard Lee of Langley. To Humphrey Lee, his son, and Elinor his wife, his gold signet ring and chain, his best salte of silver, his bason and ewer of silver, his best silver apostle spoons (13) to be handed down as family heirlooms. To Walter Lee, his son, in lieu of 8 barren kine which his father left to Walter in his will, the sum of 16 and 40s. To his daughter Jane Jencke, 40. To Elizabeth Mackworth, daughter of Dorothy Renwick, decd, if she marry with the consent of his wife Elionor and his friends, the sum of 20. To Richard Powell, his godson 20. To Elizabeth Lyster, his daughter 40. To William Lee, eldest son of his brother John Lee 20 when he attains the age of 21, if he should die before this the 20 to go to the eldest daughter. To John Hussey of Balderton the sum of 5 for his good services. Provision for his servants. (S.A, X1514/5/530).
THE PRINCES OF SOUTHERN POWYS – THE DEEP ANCESTRY OF MAJOR WILLIAM HARRIS OF VIRGINIA
1. Cynfin ap Gwerstan, m. Angharad verch Maradudd ap Owain.
1.1. Bleddyn, d. 1075, an ally of “Eadric the Wild”. 1.1.1. Maredudd, d. 1132. 1.1.1.1. Gruffyd, d. 1128, Prince of Southern Powys. (David Walker, Medieval Wales, p. 91, 1990). 1.1.1.1.1. Owain Cyfeiliog ap Gruffydd, Prince of Southern Powys, m. Gwenllian verch Owain Gwynedd.
1.1.1.1.1.1. Gwenwynwyn ap Owain Cyfeiliog, Prince of Powys, m. Margred verch Rhys ap Gruffudd, Prince of South Wales and Gwenllian verch Madog. 1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Gwenwynwyn Cyfeiliog ap Gwenwynwyn, m. Margaret, dau. of Sir Robert Corbet, of Caus, Shropshire. (Darrell Wolcott, “The Pedigree of Cynddelw Gam, of Ystrad Alun”, ancientwalesstudies.org.). 1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Gruffydd de la Pole (ap Gwenwynwyn), Prince of Upper Powys. That is, “Griffin de la Pole”. He m. Hawise, dau. of John III le Strange, of Knockin, Oswestry, Shropshire, and Lucy, dau. of Robert Tregoz, d. April 29, 1215, of Ewyas Harold, Herefordshire, and “Sibilla de Ewyas”, who m. (2) Sir Roger Clifford. of Clifford Castle, Herefs. (K.S.B. Keats-Rohan, Domesday Descendants, p. 453). King Richard I and Robert son of Maurice de Berkelai. 18 Nov. 10 Ric. I. The king has renewed his charter confirming to Robert the king’s father’s grant of Berkelai and Berkelai hernesse to Robert’s grandfather Robert FitzHarding … Witnesses: H. archdeacon of Canterbury, William the marshal, William de Aubinni, Robert Tregoz, Robert de Wanci, Walter de Ely, Gerard Prochard, Richard Revell, Warin son of Gerold, Saer de Quenci, Thomas Basset, Richard de Clifford. 1198. (BCM/A/1/1/7). Grant by Sir John de Tregoz, son and heir of Sir Robert de Tregoz, deceased, of Ewyas, to Lady Juliana, late the wife of the said Robert de Tregoz, of the manors of Alington and Etone as her dower; specifying the knights’ fees which she is to hold etc, Witnesses: Sirs Roger de Clyford, John le Strange (Extraneo). 1267-1268. (C 146/3025). Juliana Gillian de Tregoz to Walter de Merton, chancellor: a sale not yet concluded between herself and John her son. 1272-1274. (SC 1/7/198). Order in a cause before commissaries of a judge delegate between Roger de Clifford, knight, and others, executors of William de Tregoz, and Alan de Ardene. 1261. (E 135/24).
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. William de la Pole, Lord of Mawddwy, co. Merioneth, fourth son of Gruffud ap Gwenwynwyn. Another son being Owain de la Pole, whose dau., Hawise, m. John Charlton.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Gruffydd (who was of age in 1319); i.e. Griffin de la Pole, who may have m. a dau. of Roger Sprenghose III. Griffin de la Pole, son of William de la Pole. Addressees: King and council. Griffin, son of William de la Pole, states that his father held the land of Mawddwy as one of the parceners of Powys of the King, and that Griffin has complained in the King’s court that John de Cherlton is withholding his inheritance from him in this land, and that he is trying to distrain him to do homage to him, which he should not do. He asks the King that he might be able to do homage to him as his liege lord and have his land, together with the issues that John has wrongly taken during the last seven years and more. And he asks that a remedy might be ordained for the great wrongs that John has done him. 1316, ca. (SC 8/258/12897).
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. William de la Pole, m. Marged verch Thomas ap Llewelyn, and Elen verch Maredudd. (Wolcott, ibid.).
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. John de la Pole, Lord of Mawddwy and Trefgarn, m. Elizabeth, dau. and heir of Sir Fulk Corbet, Lord of Wattlesburgh, jure uxoris, ob. Nov. 3, 1403. Petitioners: Joan of Navarre, Queen of England. Addressees: King. The queen requests a grant of the wardship and marriage of Fulk together with the issues and profits of all the manors and lordships, lands and tenements, rents and services, and advowsons that pertain during the minority of the heir. Places mentioned: Moutho (Mawddwy), Merioneth. People mentioned: Fulk de la Pole of Mawddwy, son and heir of John de la Pole of Mawddwy; John de la Pole of Mawddwy, lord of Mawddwy, father of Fulk de la Pole of Mawddwy.
Note: The petition dates to 1403 as the queen was granted the wardship on Dec. 1, 1403 (CPR 1401-5, p.332).
Robert Corbet of Moreton, knight, and Elizabeth his wife to settle the manor of Shawbury on themselves for life, with remainder to Fulk Corbet, their son, and the heirs male of his body, remainder to Roger Corbet also their son and the heirs of his body, remainder to the right heirs of the said Robert, retaining the manors of Moreton Corbet (Morton Toret), and Booley (in Stanton).Salop., 43 Edward III. (C 143/369/9).
CORBET, LEIGHTON, HARRIS
1. Sir Robert Corbet (1304–75), of Moreton Corbet and Wattlesborough, m. Elizabeth, dau. of Fulk, 1st Baron Strange, of Blackmere.
1.1. Sir Fulke Corbet, of Moreton Corbet, d. 1382.
1.1.1. Elizabeth Corbet, m. John de la Pole.
1.2. Roger Corbet, of Moreton Corbet, d. 1395, m. Margaret Erdington. Margaret, wife of Roger Corbet, of Moreton (Corbet), knight: Shropshire. 19 Rich II. (C 136/86/8). Margaret de Erdington is proposed as a niece of Thomas Henr’ (Thomas, son of Henry); b. ca. 1315, hereafter given.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Fulk de la Pole, predeceased his father without issue in ca. 1414, and Mawddwy then passed to his sister, Elizabeth, who m. Hugh Burgh. Their son John (1414–1471) inherited the lordship, leaving four daughters as coheirs. His i.p.m. – “They are (his lands) all in the confines of the said County adjoining the Marches of Wales and wasted at the time of the enquiry by the rebel Welsh. Fulk also held in his demesne as of fee the manors of Heye, Cardeston, Leghton, Haburley and Watlesburgh. Fulk died Wednesday next before the feast of the apostles Peter and Paul last past (June 27, 1414). Elizabeth wife of Hugh Burgh is his sister and next heir and she is 24 or more. (Shrop. Arch., 1037/2/7).
1.1.1.11.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2. Elizabeth, sole heiress to her brother, m. Hugh Burgh, Esq., who became Lord of Mawddwy.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1. Sir John Burgh (John ap Hugh), of Wattlesbburgh, to whom Guto’r Glyn composed a poem of praise. His i.p.m. – John Burgh had no other lands or tenements in the County of March when he died or elsewhere in the kingdom. He had been lately seized of the manors of Watllesburgh, Heye, Leghton, Cardestan, Yokelton and Stretton. John Burgh died Saturday in the vigil of Pentecost last (1st June). John Newport son and heir of Elizabeth one of the daughters and heiresses of the said John Burgh, and Thomas Leghton son and heir of John Leghton and Ankeret late his wife, another daughter and heiress, and Isabella wife of John Lyngen knight, the 3rd daughter and heiress, and Elizabeth wife of Thomas Mitton, esq., the 4th daughter and heiress, are the next of kin. John Newport was of the full age of 21 at the feast of the purification last; Thomas Leghton was aged 18 at Christmas last and not more. Isabella is 30 and over, Elizabeth is 26. John Leghton, esq., father of Thomas, is still alive. July 7, 1471. (Shrop. Arch., 1037/2/8).
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.1. Ankaret de Burgh, m. John Leighton.
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.1. Thomas Leighton, b. 1452/3, By his mistress, Ann Baker:
1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.1.1. Margaret Leighton, b. ca. 1498, m. John Harry. John Harris (ancestor of Major William Harris of Virginia, undoubtedly); descendant of Thomas Henr’ (Thomas, son of Henry); heretofore given.
Continuation of associations was the bedrock of English society. Neel stated: ‘Marriage is not simply the union of two persons; rather, it binds together two kin groups. It reunites human society, which time and the divergence of family lines relentlessly pull asunder’ (Carol Neel, Medieval Families, Perspectives on Marriage, Household, and Children, p. 200, 2004), a point elucidated by Pounds: ‘Even the state in medieval England required people to be linked in small groups or tithings, so that each could vouch for the others’ good behaviour. Almost everyone is, by the accident of birth, a member of a family, of a more extended kinship group (J. G. Pounds, The Culture of the English People, p. 255, 1994).
by m stanhope, copyright B.T. Shannon 2024
Walter FitzGilbert de Hamilton 