Monumental Inscriptions of Unitarian Church, Chatham
Monumental Inscriptions of Unitarian Church, Chatham, recorded by D. E. Williams 2014.
Introduction The Baptist Church was first established in Chatham about 1655. It moved to the present site on Hammond Hill, formerly Heaviside Lane, around the end of the 17th century, the oldest monument in the churchyard is an early 18th century headstone, although it might even date from the end of the 17th century, sadly, it is completely eroded. I do not know what sort of building stood here then, but a replacement was built in 1802, (shown in the watercolour of 1885); this, in turn, was replaced by the present building in 1888/9. Before the church became known as the Unitarian Church, it was the General Baptist Church.
It is apparent from the watercolour and fragments remaining, that there are several missing monuments, including a tall one with draped urn, visible in the painting. I can not explain the destruction of these monuments but it may have happened during the re-building of 1888, although it is hard to believe that the builders could have been so careless, especially under the eyes of the congregation and the sponsors of the new church, the sisters, Miss Tribe and Mrs Wood? Also odd, is the lack of a ledger on the large stone clad vault close to Thomas Wood's grave, and the lack of any sign of inscription on the low tomb, immediately west of the porch.
From the Sexton's record, it is clear there are numerous burials in the cellar, (or under-croft, it's floor is on street level, on Hammond Hill), but only one grave marker remains, (Bowles).
I have included thorough summaries of all pre 1858 wills, both the Prerogative Court of Canterbury and the Rochester Courts. Unfortunately, the modern Principal Probate Registry charge too much for copies, so I have included the "bare bones" of their index summary.
I have also included general notes on as many people as possible, including information from newspapers.
I am very grateful to the Pastor, Mrs Beryl Payne, for her kindness and interest. Her gift of a copy of the surviving burial register and Sexton's record is very much appreciated
Amateur watercolour by E. Drake, of the 1802 Chapel, painted in 1885, a few years before re-building.
The 1888-9 church from the south
CHURCHYARD - EAST SIDE
1. COPED RED GRANITE
Bacon Family
North SideIN MEMORY OF
MATTHEW BACONMANY YEARS CIVIL ENGINEER OF H. M. DOCKYARD
DIED 9th JUNE 1849 AGED 74
AND OF CATHERINE HIS WIFE
DIED 29th JANUARY 1855 AGED 78
South SideIN MEMORY OF
MATTHEW SON OF MATTHEW AND EMMA BACONDIED 4th JANUARY 1847 AGED 4
EMMA WIFE OF MATTHEW BACONDIED 3rd JANUARY 1849 AGED 45
SOHIA SECOND WIFE OF MATTHEW BACONDIED 10th APRIL 1855 AGED 46
MATTHEW BACON DIED DEC. 1st 1878 AGED 65
Matthew Bacon, Senior was Master of the Sawmills and also Master Mill Wright in H. M. Dockyard, Chatham, (Pigot's and Wright's Directories, both 1830's.)
Archdeaconry Court of Rochester Will is dated 20th November 1844
This will is fairly long and contains much technical detail which is omitted.
He appoints wife, Catherine and sons, William, Matthew, Frederick and John Francis, executors. They are to be provided with suitable mourning. Wife is to have sufficient money for her support until rents left to her are due. Household goods, furniture, plate, linen, china to wife for life, as long as she remains his widow. To her and sons, all his freehold and leaseholds, including windmill for grinding corn and raising spring water, rents, lands and his share in properties in Chatham and elsewhere, except that invested in him as trustee or of mortgagee, his money, investments, including shares in the Rochester and Chatham Gas Light Company, or any other company. Remainder to wife and sons, upon trust, to invest in Public Funds. Income from his properties to be paid to wife for life, as long as she remains his widow. After her death or remarriage, then in trust for all sons or their children, if any sons are dead, shared equally; principal can be used for advancement of any dead son's children.
Son Matthew to be allowed to hold house and shop, with mill in Ordnance Street, including income from water supplied by mill. He is to pay £70 per annum to his mother as long as she remains a widow. When she dies or remarries, the property to be valued for the purpose of equal division. The value including income from the water supply is estimated at £1,400, estimated value of testator's house in Ordnance Terrace is £500. Personal estate is to be valued. If son Matthew wishes to purchase property in Ordnance Street, at the value of £1,400, he should announce his intention within 3 months of the death or remarriage of his mother.
Son William's health may obliged him to to abandon his occupation, if he gives notice of this, and pays certain sums into his father's hands, he shall have the income from the Gas Light Company shares, for life. If he signifies intent within 1 year he is to pay £250, within 2 years, £200, within 3 years, £150, within 4 years, £100, within 5 years, £50, if more than 5 years, nil.
Ann wife of William is to get an annuity of £30 for life, (after his death), while she remains his widow, if she remarries, she will get £20 per annum.
If William complies with above condition and sons get mother's approval they can sell shares in the Gas Light Company and invest money for benefit of William for his life. If William dies before the sale of the shares, then Ann's consent must be had in writing for the sale.
Witnesses: Harold Whitehead, Butcher, Ordnance Place, Chatham, Thomas Hodges, Baker, same place and Thomas Whitehead, Annuitant?, same place
Proved 16th June 1849
William Bacon is an engineer of Bury, Lancs., Matthew is a Miller, James Frederick is a Gentleman, also of Bury and John a Grocer and Baker of Upnor, Kent. Value of effects under £4,000.
The Murder of Catherine Bacon
On the 29th January, about 9 o'clock in the morning, a 10 year old boy knocked on the front door of the Bacon's house, 11 Ordnance Terrace, hoping to earn a few pence clearing snow from the path to the house. The door was opened by 18 year old Elizabeth Laws, Mrs Bacon's maid. The boy was startled to see that her throat was cut! The terrified boy ran home, telling a Railway Porter who was delivering parcels nearby, about the injured maid. The porter went into the house and found the battered body of Mrs Bacon (it was subsequently found that she was killed with an hatchet, which was kept in the house). The wound to Laws' throat was not life threatening and when she was receiving medical aid, a bloodstained packet of jewellery fell from her dress. Laws claimed that two men had burst in, killed her mistress and cut her throat.
The inquest jury brought in a verdict of wilful murder against Elizabeth Laws. She claimed that when she and Mrs Bacon were attacked, she screamed loudly, but the servants in the adjoining houses heard nothing. There was no sign that anyone else had been in the house, no one was seen entering or leaving the front, and fresh snow in the garden did not have any signs that two men had walked that way, the gate was fastened with a wedge, from the inside.
Elizabeth Laws stood trial at the Kent Assizes at Maidstone in March. Although the circumstantial evidence was, seemingly, overwhelming, the jury was not satisfied that the evidence was strong enough and was acquitted of the murder charge. She was however convicted of the lesser charge of stealing Mrs Bacon's property and was jailed for 6 months with hard labour.
The murder and inquest was reported in The Times and can be seen on-line, by entering one's library card number; the trial was reported in full by the Maidstone Journal.
Matthew Bacon Junior, was a Corn Miller, Grocer and Tea Dealer (Bagshaw's Directory 1847)
and Miller and Corn Factor (1871 Census).
Chatham Observer, December 7th 1878
"Death of Mr M. Bacon
Mr Matthew Bacon, of Ordnance – place, Chatham, died at his residence during the night of Saturday, after a brief but severe illness of inflammation and bronchitis. He was in his sixty – seventh year. For many years he carried on the business of miller and was the proprietor of the water works by which the residents of the district surrounding the mill were supplied with water."
Principal Probate Registry Index:William Beadell Bacon of Tunbridge Wells, Dentist, son, Emma Catherine Brown, daughter, wife of Robert Ross Brown of Strood, (Doctor) and Joseph Pearson Rose of Highgate, Gentleman were executors. Value of effects under £1,000.
2. HEADSTONE (Bottom half very eroded)
IN
MEMORY OF
ELEANOR WIFE OF
BENJAMIN BONDWHO DIED [ ] FEBRUARY] 1825 AGED 41 YEARS
ALSO THE ABOVE BENJAMIN BONDWHO DIED 10th ? MAY 1855 AGED 74 YEARS
JOHN KAINS BOND SON OF THE ABOVE
[ ]
[ ]
BENJAMIN SON OF THE ABOVE
WHO DIED [ ] 1806 ? AGED [ ]
[ ]
[ ]
[ ] ELEANOR BOND
Benjamin Bond was a Baker, his Prerogative Court of Canterbury Will is dated 6th March 1850
He was late of Chatham , now of Rochester.
His Assurance Policy in the United Kent Life Assurance Institution or Company, all his goods, chattels, money, investments and effects to be shared equally between his daughters, Betsy Kains Bond (Bond married Elizabeth Kains at Cuxton in 1808), and Ellen Bond. If either die in his lifetime, the whole to the survivor. Daughters are executors.
Witnesses: Edward Wickham and James Winch
Affidavit dated 17th July 1855
James Winch of Rochester, Wine Merchant,is sworn. He is surviving witness and confirms that Bond signed will in the presence of the witnesses and that they signed in each other's presence and that of Bond.
Proved 20th July 1855
3. LEDGER ON GROUND (Broken & eroded)
Bridge Family
IN MEMORY OF
MARY WIFE OF
ALEXANDER BRIDGEOF THE PARISH OF STROOD
WHO DIED 17th NOV. 1772
AGED 40 YEARS
ALSO THOMAS THEIR SON
WHO DIED IN HIS INFANCY
ALEXANDER BRIDGE, GENT.
DIED 19th DEC. 1799 AGED 72? YEARS
ALSO JAMES BRIDGESON OF THE ABOVE
OBIT 28th [FEBRUARY] 1824 ETAT 76? YEARS
MARY WIFE OF THE ABOVE
JAMES BRIDGEDIED [ ] JANUARY 1839
AGED 79 YEARS
Alexander Bridge was a Tailor (1771 Rochester Poll Book)
James Bridge was a Woollen Draper and was an Alderman of Rochester (Universal British Directory, 1790's)
James Bridge's P.C.C. Will is dated 30th October 1819
To wife Mary, his freehold house in High Street, Strood and household goods, books, plate, linen, china, utensils etc., for life. After her death, to only son, Edwin for ever. He also gets freehold house in Maidstone, near the river and St,. Faith's Green, occupied by W, Brooker, for ever. To wife, son Edwin and daughter Mary Bridge,upon trust, £1,100 Bank Stock' the interest for wife Mary for life, she also gets £200 Bank Stock. After his and his wife's death, the interest from £100 Bank Stock to go towards the maintenance and education of grandson,
Alexander Bridge, until he is 20. If he lives to 20 and testator's wife is dead, the £200 and £100 Bank Stock is to be transferred to him.
Son Edwin gets £500 Bank Stock, and after his mother's death an additional £400 Bank Stock.
To daughter Sarah Comport ½ of a mortgage bond for £1,700 given to testator by John Comport for money advanced to him. To daughter Mary Bridge, ½ of the mortgage (£850); after death of his wife, to daughter Sarah an additional sum of £300 Bank Stock, the same amount of stock to daughter Mary.
Residue of real and personal estate to wife.
His wife, son and daughter Mary are executors and trustees, they are also guardians for grandson Alexander.
Witnesses: George Osborn, Thomas Chalklen and Joseph Greathead
Proved 23rd March 1824
4. VOLUTED LEDGER ON STONE BASE (Masonic symbols)
Ferguson and Emma Edwards
IN LOVING REMEMBRANCE
OF
FERGUSON WRIGHT EDWARDSWHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
NOVEMBER 2nd 1890
IN THE 77th YEAR OF HIS AGE
"Father in thy Gracious Keeping,
Leave we now thy Servant Sleeping"
ALSO OF
EMMA EDWARDSWIFE OF THE ABOVE
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
FEBRUARY 28th 1894
AGED 77 YEARS
"Thy Will be Done"
Ferguson Edwards had been a Beer Retailer in the High Street (1847 Bagshaw's Directory and 1855 Census) by time of the 1881 Census he was a Coal Merchant of Watts Place, by 1890 he was living in Ordnance Terrace (Kelly's Directory).
Principal Probate Registry Index:Edwards was a "Gentleman", of 15 Ordnance Terrace. His executors were widow, Emma, nephew, Thomas Hayward Edwards, of Finsbury Park, London, Lace Merchant's Manager and Alfred Rimmington, Maidstone Road, Rochester, Gentleman. Personal estate £2,862 2s 3d.
5. FOOTSTONE, LOOSE, NO SIGN OF HEADSTONE
B. H. 1854
M. A. M. ? 1860 ?
BETSY HOLLINGSHEADDIED JANUARY 1854
AGED 46 YEARS
MARY ANN MEAD?
DIED 4th QUARTER 1860
AGED ABOUT 84 YEARS
In the 1851 Census, Eliza Hollingshead, spinster, is living with her aunt, Mary Ann Mead, widow, on New Road, Rochester, a short distance from Chapel Lane. Both were born in Bethnal Green. Mary Mead is living on investment interest; they have one servant.
6. STONE PLAQUE (FROM DESTROYED TOMB?) (LYING ON GROUND, VERY WORN)
William Igglesden, lying on ground, close to Troups
WILLIAM IGGLESDEN E[SQ.]
COMMANDER
[IN] HER MAJESTY'S
[IND]IAN [NAVY]
[DIED 10th NOVEMBER 1866]
[AGED 65 YEARS
William Igglesden married Mary Ann Sharp at St. Nicholas, Rochester in September 1828.If he is the same man, this may suggest that this plaque could have come from the now anonymous slab next to the grave of Kingsford Sharp ?
From the Principal Probate Registry Index, we learn that Igglesden died at 28 Shubbery Road, Gravesend and that his effects were under the value of £600. Probate was granted to Elizabeth Fraser of the same address.
7. LARGE LEDGER ON BRICK VAULT (PARTLY DE-LAMINATED)
Jarvis Family
SACRED
TO
THE MEMORY OF
MR. HENRY JARVIS
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
ON THE [24th JANUARY] 1861
[AGED 78 YEARS]
ALSO
ELIZABETH
WIFE OF THE ABOVE
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
ON THE 23rd OCTOBER [1869]
AGED 83 YEARS
ALSO
MARY ANN ESTHER JARVIS
DAUGHTER OF THE ABOVE
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
ON THE 19th JANUARY 1865
AGED 46 YEARS
Henry Jarvis was a Bricklayer and Builder of the Brook, Chatham (1841 Census)
Principal Probate Registry Index :
Jarvis is described as a "Gentleman". His executors were daughter, Mary Ann, George Pemble of Chatham, Gentleman and George Clother of Chatham, Builder. Value of effects, under £6,000.
8. HEADSTONE (NEXT TO BOND)
IN
MEMORY OF
JOHN KAINS
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE 17th AUGUST 1826
AGED 68 YEARS
ALSO
ELEANOR WIFE OF THE ABOVE
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE 15th? FEBRUARY 1848
AGED 83 YEARS
9. HEADSTONE & BODY STONE ON STONE SLAB (NEXT TO GATE)
THE MORTAL REMAINS OF
MR. KINGSFORD SHARP
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
[ ] OCTOBER 1837
AGED 74 YEARS
[WORN VERSES]
FILIAL AFFECTION HAS ERECTED
THIS MEMORIAL TO THE BEST OF
PARENTS
ALSO WILLIAM SON OF
KINGSFORD & ELIZABETH SHARP
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
JUNE 7th 1870
AGED 75 YEARS
Kingsford Sharp was apparently apprenticed to Thomas Manger, Cordwainer, at Dover, in 1778. One of his children has as one of it's names, Manger. He is probably the same man who married Elizabeth Winter at Deal in 1790. In 1798 he is owner of part of the Rochester Customs premises, (Land Tax Records). Son William, was a Tailor in London (1861 Census).
10. HEADSTONE
IN MEMORY
OF
JOHN TRIBE
WHO DIED 3rd MARCH 1851
AGED 70 YEARS
ALSO
RHODA RELICT OF THE ABOVE
WHO DIED 8th APRIL 1861
AGED 87 YEARS
ALSO
MARY TRIBE
WHO DIED 29th DECEMBER 1830
AGED 22 YEARS
AND
RHODA ANNA TRIBE
WHO DIED 8th DECEMBER 1864
AGED 53 YEARS
DAUGHTERS OF THE ABOVE
JOHN AND RHODA TRIBE
EDWARD TRIBE
WHO DIED [ ] JUNE 1878
AGED [65] YEARS
SON OF THE ABOVE
JOHN AND RHODA TRIBE
JOSEPH SEATON TRIBE MRCS
[DIED 1879]
[AGED 65 YEARS]
John Tribe's death notice in the Rochester Gazette records that he was proprietor of the "Mitre and Royal Clarence Hotel", Chatham, for many years. He died as a result of a carbuncle. He was High Constable of Chatham in 1812 and 1819.
Edward Tribe, Principal Probate Registry Index
Probate dated 29th July 1878, he was of 9 Regent Place, Chatham. Granted to John Tribe of Westfield House, Borstal Road, Rochester, Attorney of Mary Ann Tribe, widow, of New South Wales. Value under £600
11. LARGE, THICK LEDGER OVER VAULT
Fraser Troup and family
IN THIS VAULT
ARE DEPOSITED THE REMAINS OF
FRASER TROUP
LATE OF 165 HIGH STREET, ROCHESTER
DIED 16th FEBRUARY 1840 AGED 88
ALSO OF
ELIZABETH HIS WIFE
DIED 11th APRIL 1838 AGED 86
ALSO OF THEIR DAUGHTERS
EMILY TROUP
DIED 25th OCTOBER 1872 AGED 86
SARAH TROUP
DIED 18th FEBRUARY 1875 AGED 82
AND OF THEIR SON
JAMES TROUP
DIED 29th MARCH 1874 AGED 82
AND OF ELIZABETH WIFE OF THE ABOVE
JAMES TROUP
DIED 6th SEPT. 1875 AGED 77
Fraser Troup was a Music Seller and Musical Instrument Maker, (1807 Poll Book, 1824 Pigot's Directory)
Son James followed in his father's footsteps in the music trade; he was also described as "Professor of Music", with a Music Academy in Rochester. He also did business at Brompton House, Wood Street, Brompton and at Mr Smith's Library in Maidstone. Councillor for St. Nicholas Ward in 1855 and Alderman in 1859, (Pigot's Directory, 1838, 1851 Census and Post Office Directories, 1855 and 1859)
Principal Probate Registry Index:
Widow Elizabeth was surviving executor; value of effects, under £1,000
His widow, Elizabeth's, effects were valued at £6,000 and re-valued in December 1875 at under £4,000. Her executors were her son , John Nightingale Boys of Belmont Place, Greenwich, Thomas Simmons King of Gillingham and Charles Bathurst of Rochester , Gentleman.
Unidentifiable Monuments in the Eastern Side of the Churchyard
12. Against the east wall is an early 18th century eroded headstone.
13. On the south side of the Sharp headstone is a large ledger stone, which is completely smooth, it may be part of the Sharp tomb?
14. Between the latter and the Bacon monument is a large ledger, once railed, on a brick vault; there seems to be traces of an inscription but it is remarkably smooth.
Unknown, west of porch.
15. Near the south east corner, there is a large ledger, again on a brick vault. This is covered by thick bushes but appears to have no inscription.
END OF THE EASTERN SECTION
CHURCHYARD - WEST SIDE
16. HEADSTONE FRAGMENTS (AGAINST WEST WALL)
[IN MEMORY OF]
GEORGE DAVIES
[WHO] DIED APRIL 3rd 1879
AGED 82 YEARS
ALSO MARY HIS WIFE
WHO DIED MARCH 11th 1888
AGED 72 YEARS
ALSO OF FLORENCE
GRAND DAUGHTER OF THE [ABOVE]
WHO DIED [ ]
[ ]
[ ]
ALSO
[ ]
1851 Census: Gibralter Place, Chatham, Collector of Rates ?, Surveyor of Pavements, Librarian of the Mechanics ? Institute. Born in Rochester.
1861 Census: Constitution Terrace, Chatham, Clerk.
1871 Census: Retired Surveyor, Luton Road, Chatham.
17. THREE SMALL METAL PLAQUES (SOUTH WALL OF CHURCH)
IN MEMORY OF
LOUIS DARBAN
18th OCTOBER 1927 TO 3rd SEPTEMBER 2003
SADLY MISSED
IN MEMORY OF
ELIZABETH CHARLOTTE MARTEN DYER
25th OCTOBER 1909 TO 9th OCTOBER 2003
A LOYAL FRIEND TO THIS CHURCH
IN LOVING MEMORY OF
MICHAEL DAVID GIBBS
24 – 12 – 60 - 20 – 9- 98
LOVING HUSBAND, DEVOTED FATHER
ALWAYS ENDLESS LOVE
18. HEADSTONE, VERY ERODED (WEST WALL)
[ IN MEMORY OF]
EMMA [ WIFE OF HENRY ?] GURR
[DIED 3rd QUARTER 1888 AGED 47]
JOHN GURR
[DIED 1st QUARTER 1891 AGED 89]
[ ]
[ ]
WILLIAM [MARDEN] WYATT
[WHO DIED 1st OCTOBER 1868]
[AGED 41 YEARS]
CHARLES [ FREDERICK] BELLIS
[WHO DIED 18th DECEMBER 1906]
[AGED 81 YEARS]
This stone is extremely eroded, I have tried to fit the most obvious Gurrs to the remaining inscription and am confident that I have made the right identification. The rear is even more eroded than the front, so it must have been moved to the sheltered position against the wall relatively "recently".
There is no doubt about Wyatt and Bellis, as can be seen from the following evidence.
Emma Woodgate married Henry Gurr, (son of John Gurr, (above?), both butchers), at Christchurch, Luton, (in Chatham), on 27th November 1864. Henry was a widower by the time of the 1891 census. The gap between Emma and Gurr on the inscription would accommodate what I have suggested.
John Gurr seems to have been a successful Butcher, at 154 Chatham High Street, employing 4 men in the 1881 census
William Marden Wyatt married Mary Ann Gurr at St. George Southwark, on 4th July 1854, he is described as a "Gentleman", his father, also William, is a Grocer. Her father William Gurr is a Butcher. They are both described as being residents of Lant Street. The witnesses are, John Gurr and Emma Bellis (see below). William Wyatt is buried at St. Mary, Chatham, burial ground in Whiffen's Avenue.
According to the Principal Probate Registry Index, he was a "Gentleman", of Chatham, administration was granted to his widow and the value of his effects was under £1,000.
Charles Frederick Bellis married Emma Gurr, (probably daughter of William Gurr, Butcher of Chatham High Street), at St. George, Southwark in the 3rd quarter of 1853 (this year's register is not available, online, so I do not have precise date or other details).
He was born in the Tower of London, (military father ?), and in the 1851 Census, he is living in Chatham High Street. He shares a house with his sister and the family of Jonathan Crockford, a Coal Merchant. Bellis is a proprietor of an house and has income from a mortgage and from "funds".
In the 1866 Post Office Directory, Bellis is the Agent for Western Fire and Life Insurance Company, his address Luton Road, Chatham.
By the time of the 1871 Census he is a Civil Clerk in the Contract Office at Chatham Barracks and is living in Luton Road, Chatham.
In the 4th quarter of 1882, his wife Emma died, aged 55.
In the 1891 Census, he is living at 137 New Road, on his "own means". three of his daughters, are school teachers, they have one servant.
The 1901 Census finds him at the same address as a retired Civil Clerk, four daughters are now school teachers.
In the Principal Probate Registry Index, his address is "Church House", 137 New Road; administration was granted to daughter Emma Bellis and Harry Roberts, Solicitor, value of effects was £4,100 16s 1d. Like Wyatt it is very unlikely that he is actually buried in the Unitarian ground, but probably at Chatham Cemetery.
19. HEADSTONE (AGAINST WEST WALL)
John and Elizabeth Pudner
A piece of the original railings is on the bottom of the right hand edge, either it is stuck
to the stone or the stone is in it's original position. To the right, fragment of Davis stone
IN MEMORY
OF
CAPT. JOHN PUDNER
LATE PAYMASTER IN THE
EAST INDIA COMPANY DEPOT, CHATHAM
DIED 19th SEPTEMBER 1836
AGED 75
SERVED HIS COUNTRY IN INDIA FOR
[ ] WITH FIDELITY AND HONOUR [BUT IN]
[ ] [PRACTISING] TO BE [ ]
[ ] OF JESUS CHRIST THE [ ]
[ ] OF [SACRIFICE][ ]
[ ] GOD [ ]
[ ] [HOLY] SPIRIT [ ]
ALSO IN MEMORY OF
ELIZABETH HIS WIFE
WHO BEING PARTNER [ ]
[ ] FAITH
[DIED] THE [ ] OF
JANUARY 1852 AGED 70
[Eroded Verses]
P.C.C. Will dated 29th October 1835
His leasehold, 8 Chatham Place, Hackney and leasehold land behind it, lately occupied by Robert Harris, Esq., to wife Elizabeth, subject to payment of rents and observance of covenants.
Goods, chattels, ready money investments, insurance policy, shares in the University of London and all personal estate, to wife, Elizabeth.
Nominates friends, Rev. Francis Augustus Cox of Hackney, Doctor of Laws and Gilbert Bligh, also of Hackney, Stationer, executors. To them, £10 each.
Witnesses: Henry Prentis, Solicitor, Rochester and John Thomas Austin, his Clerk.
Proved 22nd October 1836
John Pudner was received into the Rev William Giles congregation, in Chatham, in 1822. Rev Giles is well-known as the teacher of Charles Dickens, when the Dickens family resided in Chatham.
Elizabeth Pudner P.C.C. Will dated 9th September 1850
Of Islington at time will was written.
To her friends, Rev. John Webb, Baptist Minister at Worstead and George Minter, Esq., of Ramsgate, all her money in long annuities and in the Bank of England; bonds in the State of Maryland Funds, household furniture and effects (except articles, plate and jewellery as specified in annex) to sell proceeds to be invested, to pay debts, funeral expenses, etc and for following bequests.
To grand niece Eliza Rose Baldock, £500, to be placed in the Bank of England and the interest to accumulate until she is 18; if she dies before 18, then the £500 to be divided as follows, £100 to niece Mrs Rose Maria Field and Letitia Mainwaring Norton, £100 to Elizabeth Bannister, spinster, £100 to John Marshman of Serampore in the East Indies or treasurer for the time being, in trust, for the use of the Baptist Mission for the spread of the Gospel, connected with the College at Serampore, to be used as he thinks fit.
Remainder to niece Mrs Mary Ann Baldock, also to her an additional £100. To Letitia Mainwaring Norton another £100. To Elizabeth Slatterie of Chatham, Miss Elizabeth Bannister of London and Mrs Mary Wood, £50 each. To Mrs Mary Lamb, Louisa Isabella Norton and Dr Adam Marton, 19 guineas each. To her friends, Mrs Alice Thomson, Mrs Eliza Schnell, Mrs Major Hall, Miss Henrietta Bagshaw, Mrs Ann Richman, Senior, Mrs Sarah Webb, Mrs Emma Minter, Samuel Medley and Mrs Allan, £10 each "in token of friendship". Also £10 each to Miss Marianne Slatterie and Lydia and Mary Holman.
To the Treasurers, in trust, ? Missionary Society for the Highlands and Islands of Scotland; the British Society for the Propagation of the Gospel among the Jews; the Kent Union for the Relief of Widows and Infirm Ministers and Miss Sarah Vines, in trust, for the Protestant Mission of Auxerre, France, 19 guineas each.
To John Marshman of Serampore, in trust, £100 for the support of native preachers of the gospel of the Baptist denomination and the Native Female Orphan Asylum at Serampore, and other ways he thinks fit. To friends and executors, Rev John Webb and George Minter, £30 each for their troubles if they act for her.
She desires to be buried in the same grave as late husband Capt John Pudner in Chatham, the tombstone to be enclosed with iron railings, (part still in remaining). The Rev Patrick Thompson to officiate at her funeral and to get 19 guineas, "for his kind services".
Proceeds from residue to be used to purchase 3 ¼ percent Bank Stock, from this £50 annually to her "afflicted" brothers and sisters in Christ. To poor pious dissenting ministers and members of the Baptist and Independent denominations, donations of £5 each until the funds are expended.
Witnesses: Mary Ann Daniell of Islington and George B ?
Codicil dated 8th February 1851
To Letitia Mainwaring Norton £10 instead of £100; to niece Mrs Rose Maria Reed £100; to Rev Owen Clarke 19 guineas and to Mrs Elizabeth Norton £10.
Witnesses: Henry Thompson of Croydon and Charlotte Ann Campbell of Kensington.
Affidavit dated the 14th January 1852
Henry Thompson of Wimpole Street, Cavendish Square, Surgeon, sworn. He wrote the codicil for Elizabeth Pudner, then of Cloudsley Street, Islington, afterwards of Houston? Terrace, Kensington but late of Young? Street, Kensington. He confirms testator signed the codicil in his presence and that of the other witness, and that he and the other witness signed the codicil in the presence of the testator.
Proved 21st February 1852.
Serampore College
Founded in 1818, by Baptist missionaries led by William Carey and including Joshua Marshman, whom I presume is the father of John Marshman, mentioned in the will. The college is in West Bengal, which at that time was a Danish possession; it was set up to train Indian ministers and to provide education to all regardless of caste or country. It was granted a Royal Charter by the King of Denmark in 1827, which made it the first degree-granting institution in Asia. The colony was purchased by Britain in 1845.
20. LARGE LEDGER, GROUND LEVEL, ONCE RAILED
Benjamin Seaton and family
UNDERNEATH LIETH THE BODY OF
BENJAMIN SEATON
OF CHATHAM
WHO DIED 24th APRIL 1834
AGED 59 YEARS
SARAH WIFE OF THE ABOVE
BENJAMIN SEATON
BORN JUNE 17th 1783
DIED DEC. 6th 1864
CHARLES SON OF
BENJAMIN AND SARAH SEATON
WHO DIED 16th MAY 1825
AGED [ ] YEARS AND 10 MONTHS
THOMAS SEATON
SON OF THE ABOVE DIED JULY 18th 1845
AGED 29 YEARS
JANE SEATON
DAUGHTER OF THE ABOVE
DIED 7th MARCH 1898
AGED 80 YEARS
MUCH BELOVED AND RESPECTED
Benjamin Seaton's Tool Chest of 1797, in the Guildhall Museum, Rochester
Benjamin Seaton : P.C.C. Will dated 2nd March 1830
Cabinet Maker, Upholsterer and Auctioneer.
Wife, Sarah and Lewis Cooper of the Bower, Maidstone,Esq., brother Edward Love Seaton, of St. Margaret's Bank, Rochester, Surgeon and John Venning of Rochester, Gentleman, are executors and trustees. To them, his freehold in Chatham High Street, except his property and effects related to his business. Also land purchased from John Brenchley, Esq., in Brewer Street, Maidstone, lately occupied by John Slo[man ?], Timber Merchant, also house and land , recently purchased from Mr Joseph [ ? ] and executors of Mr James Giles, lately occupied by James Giles, now by Mr William Okins ? , dealer in horses, in M[ bleed] Street, Maidstone, all other freehold and leasehold estate, personal estate, (except house in Fleet Street, London, household furniture and other effects), upon trust, to sell and invest proceeds in Public Funds. This to pay annuity to wife of £120 for life or until remarriage, after either of these events the annuity ceases.
Income from residue to his children until they are 21, capital can be used to place sons apprentice. Regarding his business and premises, if any son wishes to carry on business, the trustees to have business valued, then deduct 5% , for that son, "as a token of his love and affection". Son to pay valuation minus 5%.
His house in Fleet Street, (no. 150), to his wife, for ever. This was lately occupied by Sarah Pettit, now by Thomas Wheeler. Also household furniture, books, plate, china, etc., in his dwelling house. She also gets £500.
£10 to each executor. John Venning gets an extra £100.
To brothers Edward and Joseph, sister Elizabeth Hemsley, brother in law, Robert Cooper, £100 each. To sister Rhoda Tribe and niece Sophia Hemsley, £50 each. To sisters Rachel and Mary and Anna Cooper, sister in law, Elizabeth Cooper and brother Thomas, £30 each. To wife's niece Ann Green, £10; to Thomas Seager, William Balcomb and John Cosier, his employees, if with him at his death, £10 each.
Residue not already bequeathed, and after expenses, to wife.
Witnesses: Thomas Atkins, Chemist, Chatham, John Hill, Ironmonger, Chatham and William Burren, Hairdresser.
Proved 27th June 1834 granted to Sarah Seaton, power reserved to Lewis Cooper and Edward Seaton. John Venning has since died.
The Guildhall Museum, Rochester, contains the world famous tool box, containing Benjamin Seaton's tools, all in new condition.
1841 Census: Thomas Seaton was a Surgeon of Whittaker Place, Chatham.
Jane Seaton :Principal Probate Registry Index, 14th May 1898
Of 6a London Road, Maidstone. Probate to John Love Seaton and Robert Cooper Seaton , Gentlemen and Thomas Seaton, Bank Clerk. Value of effects, £9, 181 12s 7d
21. HEADSTONE (AGAINST WEST WALL)
IN MEMORY OF
MR. JOHN SWEETLAND, SEN.
44 ? YEARS SAWYER IN HIS MAJESTY'S
DOCKYARD, CHATHAM
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE THE 10th OF
SEPTEMBER 1819 AGED 89 YEARS
[Eroded Verses, access obscured by pile of brushwood)
Archdeaconry Court of Rochester Will dated 5th April 1815
Pious preamble. To daughter, Elizabeth Bromley, for life, income from investment in the Fishery of Rochester and Strood. After her death, the principal to be shared as follows: to grandsons, John Bromley and James Bromley, £15 each, grand daughters, Elizabeth Bromley and Mary Bromley, £15 each, grandchildren, John and Charlotte Horne, £15 each. Grandson, John Bromley is now at sea, if he dies at sea, or before daughter, Elizabeth Bromley, his children to have his share. Also to grandson John Bromley, his grandmother's wedding ring, grandfather's watch and all his books. Daughter Elizabeth is to have [crease] bed and bedding, "wherein she now lieth".
Son John, Elizabeth Bromley and Eleanor Bray are executors. If there are insufficient funds for legacies, money from the Fishery can be used, They are to pay the income from the Fishery to daughter Elizabeth; at her death they are to use funds for the legacies; the remainder shared equally between sons John and William, daughter Eleanor Bray.
If all his children die before his daughter Elizabeth, their legacies to his grandchildren, equally.
Witnesses: A. Fenier and William Bromley
Proved 23rd September 1819. Son John is a Rope Maker, daughters, Elizabeth and Eleanor, widows. Value of goods under £450
22. PLAIN CLASSICAL SCARCOPHAGUS ON STONE BASE
Rev. Thomas and wife Ann,
background, right, Kains and Bond headstones
North Side
IN AFFECTIONATE REMEMBRANCE OF
ANN WIFE OF
REVD. THOMAS FELIX THOMAS
BORN AT CHATHAM NOV. 18th 1805
DIED AT MACCLESFIELD MAY 5th 1869
[AGED 63]
[Eroded Verses]
South Side
HERE REPOSETH THE REMAINS OF THE
REV. THOMAS FELIX THOMAS
FORMERLY MINISTER OF THIS CHAPEL
WHO DIED AT YORK
MARCH 20th 1887
AGED 85
"Faithful Soldier of Christ – Well Done,
The Battle Fought,the Victory Won,
Sleep in Peace"
East Side
IN AFFECTIONATE REMEMBRANCE OF
CHARLES FREDERICK THOMAS
THIRD SON OF
REVD. T. F. AND ANN THOMAS
BORN AT CHATHAM MAY [ ] 1830 ?
DIED ON BOARD THE R.M.S.S. CONWAY
[ ] DEC. 1882 ?
BURIED AT GREAT REEF [ ? ]
23. HEADSTONE
TO THE MEMORY OF
SELINA
THE BELOVED WIFE OF JOHN TRIBE
WHO DIED ON THE 15th DAY OF MARCH 1883
AGED 78 YEARS
ALSO
OF THE ABOVE
JOHN TRIBE
OF ROCHESTER (FORMERLY OF CHATHAM)
WHO DIED ON THE 5th DAY OF DECEMBER 1883
AGED 78 YEARS
"Here we Rest
And Sleep in Peace,
As Safely Kept
As when on Earth
We Smiled or Wept"
ALSO
MARY LOVE WOOD
DAUGHTER OF THE ABOVE
DIED 2nd AUGUST 1922
AGED 86 YEARS
"Nearer to Thee"
ALSO
SELINA TRIBE
DAUGHTER OF JOHN TRIBE
DIED 3rd FEBRUARY 1929
AGED 95 YEARS
"Surely Goodness and Mercy have followed
Me all the Days of my Life"
Extracts from the long Obituary in the Chatham and Rochester Observer, December 8th 1883
(John Tribe was born 20th February 1805)
"THE LATE MR. JOHN TRIBE
On the early morning of Wednesday last, at the ripe old age of seventy-eight, one of the oldest, and certainly one of the most esteemed of our townsfolk, passed over to the majority. The news of Mr. John Tribe's demise will be received throughout the length and breadth of our local community with very marked regret, not alone by those with whom during his active life he was more directly associated in commercial, political, as well as social and religious matters, but also by a multitudinous host of friends who, although diametrically opposed to him in the interpretation of many of the phases of characteristic of the political economy and administrative policy of the past half century, have been ever ready to accord to him the characteristics of of a just and upright townsman."..............................
"At the time of his birth, his father, John Tribe, Senr., was proprietor of the old established posting house and hostelry known as the "Mitre Inn and Clarence Hotel"".........................
"at a very early age he was sent to the ---- at that time ---- well known scholastic institution at Rainham, presided over by a pedagogue Venning"....................
"after remaining under Mr Venning's charge for seven years or so he was sent to London and bound over for seven years to a citizen and apothecary carrying on business in Gracechurch Street."...........................
During this time, Tribe attended evening classes at the newly established "Mechanics Institute"
After qualifying, Tribe, "returned to his native town, well skilled in the subtle art of the alchemist, and the proprietor of a large and old established druggist's emporium in the High Street, in which he succeeded a Mr C. Turner in 1827."
Eventually Tribe became a member of the Pharmaceutical Society (1841), and eventually became the local Secretary.
"The part taken by the deceased gentleman in the arena of politics, may be said to date from the year 1830, when for the first time after twenty years the Liberal Party under the leadership of Earl Grey came into office, and secured the passing ---- in June 1832 ---- of the well known Reform Bill; and how assiduously and consistently he has striven for the last fifty years or more, to strengthen the hands of the local Liberal Association is too well known to to need recapitulation.".....................
"In the month of October 1834, John Tribe was elected as a member of the Court Leet, his father having, on two occasions held the office of High Constable viz., in 1812 and 1819; the son however never accepted office in the Leet.".............................
He was, " a member of the Rochester Corporation, then as Alderman and eventually as Mayor. In Chatham affairs he was always well to the fore, and for several years was Chairman of the Medway Board of Guardians, and a member of the local Board of Health. The late Mr John Tribe was also one of the Trustees of the National Security Savings Bank, a Commissioner of Income Tax, a Director of the Waterworks Co., and local Secretary of the British and Foreign School Society. He married Miss Selina Love of Filston Hall, Shoreham, near Sevenoaks, who it will be remembered died in March last, and by whom he had two daughters who still survive him, the eldest of the two ladies, Miss Selina Tribe is still unmarried, the second daughter, (Mary Love) is the wife of Humphrey Wood, Esq., Solicitor."
"In religious matters the late John Tribe held very decided yet liberal opinions; he was himself a constant attendant of, and liberally supported the Unitarian Chapel, Hammond Hill."..........
"....... he was a strictly conscientious man, and a model of integrity and punctuality.".........
"In 1877 he took into partnership Mr T.C. Lamb, who only a few weeks since ----- after years of the most pleasant of associations ----- assumed the sole charge of the old established firm."..............
"In conclusion, it is no merely stereotyped form of words to say of John Tribe that in the opinion of ALL who knew him , "he bore without abuse the grand old name of gentleman" and has gone to his rest leaving behind him "footsteps in the sands of time" that will cause the name of Tribe to be revered in the neighbourhood for generations to come.
The funeral of the deceased will take place on Saturday next at 2.30 pm at the burial place of the Unitarian Chapel, Hammond Hill."
Principal Probate Registry Index, Probate 3rd January 1884 (John Tribe)
Chemist, formerly of Chatham High Street, now of Westfield House, Borstal Road, Rochester, Gentleman. Probate to John Wood, Hampton House, Luton Road, Chatham, Gentleman, Robert Cooper Seaton, Lincoln's Inn, Barrister and Humphrey Wood, Chatham, Solicitor.
Personal estate, £16, 333 0s 11d.
Mary Love Wood
Of Westfield House (as above) Probate 22nd September 1922 to Thomas Shindler, Barrister and Harry Roberts, Solicitor. Value £14, 462 11s 7d
Selina Tribe
Probate 4th April 1929 to Thomas Seaton, retired Bank Manager and Thomas William Wood Roberts, Solicitor. Effects £17, 816 10s 2d
Mary Love Wood and Selina financed the construction of the present church, see Interior.
24. HEADSTONE & CRUCIFORM COPED STONE, RAILED (OVER STONE CLAD VAULT)
SACRED
TO
THE MEMORY
OF
THOMAS WILLIAM WOOD
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
ON THE 13th DAY OF MARCH 1869
IN THE 72nd YEAR OF HIS AGE
"I have [heard] of Thee by,
the [hearing] but now Mine Eye seeth Thee"
ALSO
ELIZABETH WOOD WIDOW OF THE ABOVE
WHO DIED ON THE 7th DAY OF DECEMBER 1892
IN THE 90th YEAR OF HER AGE
"[Sleeping] until the Day dawn and the
Shadows pass away"
ALSO
THOMAS WILLIAM WOOD
SECOND SON OF THE ABOVE
DIED THE [14th] DAY OF FEBRUARY 1882
AGED 48 YEARS
[Eroded Verses]
ALSO
JOHN WOOD
[ELDEST] SON OF THE ABOVE
DIED THE 20th ? DAY OF DECEMBER ? 1897
AGED 65 YEARS
HARRIET WOOD
[DAUGHTER OF THOMAS WILLIAM WOOD]
[DIED 13th DAY OF MARCH 1919]
[IN HER 78th YEAR]
1855 Post Office Directory: Thomas William Wood, Auctioneer, Appraiser, Estate Agent, Insurance Agent, Furniture Broker.
Principal Probate Registry Index
Probate dated 22nd May 1869, to John Wood of Chatham, Gentleman and Humphrey Wood of Chatham, sons, and George Moss of Chatham, Gentleman, nephew. Value under £2,000.
Chatham News
"Death of Mr T. W. Wood – We regret to have to announce the death of Mr Thomas William Wood, a well – known townsman of Chatham, , who had long taken a considerable part in local affairs. Mr Wood had been ailing at times for a considerable period, having attained a ripe age; but there were no indications, we believe, that his death was so near – he had been about in the town very recently, we understand. He died, suddenly, on Saturday last, at his residence in the Luton Road, Chatham; he was seventy – one. Mr Wood was for many years a member of the Medway Board of Health and of the Medway Board of Guardians; from which posts he retired at a comparatively recent period."
Principal Probate Registry Index
Thomas William Wood, formerly of West Brompton, London, late Hampton House, Luton, Chatham, Artist. Granted to John Wood of Hampton House, brother. Value £3,054 6s 5d.
John Wood of Southon House, Boxley Road, Maidstone, Gentleman. Granted to Harriet Wood and Humphrey Wood, Solicitor. Value £4,976 1s 6d, re-sworn 1899, £5,283 12s 3d.
Harriet Wood of 51 St Margaret's Street, Rochester, died at Maidstone. Granted to Thomas Shindler, Barrister and Harry Roberts, Solicitor. Value £5,464 0s 3d.
Unidentified Monuments in the Western Side of the Churchyard
25. Plain Slab, on Stone Base, immediately west of the Porch. There is a continuous groove around the underside edge. It may well have had a headstone at the west end, perhaps of Edward Seaton in the Porch?
26a. Stone Clad Vault to the south of latter, instead of an inscribed ledger, it has a slab of 20th century concrete! Could this be the tomb of Joseph Seaton and family?
Unknown, west of porch.
Possibly Tomb of Joseph Seaton and Family?
On the left, fragment of stone to John [ ? ] of H.M. Dockyard, Chatham
26b. Against the east end of the latter a fragment of headstone:
27.
SACRED
TO THE MEMORY OF
MR. JOHN [ ]
MANY YEARS SER[ ]
OF H. M. DOCK YARD [CHATHAM]
WHO DIED ON [ ]
AGED [ ]
Fragment of 18th century headstone against west wall:
28.
IN MEMORY OF
MARY CO[ ]
? JOH[N]
This is probably pre 1785 (the date of the earliest burial register). There are no matches for a Mary, with husband John, which I suspect is what the inscription says. If I am wrong, and it is not John, there is a possible candidate, Mary Coulter, died February 1788, aged 37. Her husband, Edward, a Cordwainer, was also buried here, in 1797 aged 48.
29. Fragment of early 19th century headstone:
DAVIS
END OF CHURCHYARD
INTERIOR OF THE CHURCH
30. WHITE MARBLE OVAL, NORTH WALL OF CHAPEL
UNDERNEATH LIES THE BODY
OF
RICHD. BOWLES OF BROMPTON
WHO DIED THE 8th OF DECR. 1809
AGED 45 YEARS
ALSO ELIZABETH DAUGHTER OF
RICHARD AND ELIZABETH BOWLES
WHO DIED THE 23rd OF OCTR. 1809
AGED 17 YEARS
31. SMALL STONE AGAINST NORTH WALL OF CELLAR
RICHD. BOWLES
1809
ELIZTH. BOWLES
P.C.C. Will dated 9th November 1809
Richard Bowles is a Linen Draper.
To wife, Elizabeth, half of his property, of whatever nature; to son Richard, a quarter of his property, half of his dwelling house, which he recently purchased, the conveyance due in a few days, value about £240. Remaining quarter part of his property, to son, Jendy; of this, a sixth part of a house, occupied by Mr Adams, in West Court Street, Brompton, and also a sixth part of a house, occupied by Mr Quick; also sixth of a house occupied by Mr Lauebeter?, both in High Street, Brompton, (he estimates these shares to be worth £70). Nominates his brother,(in law?), Richard Jounds of Peckham, alias Stromment Hard, London and his nephew, Thomas Bowles of Midhurst, Sussex, to be joint "guardians" (executors?), with his wife, of his will.
All interest arising from his property to his wife, to enable her to maintain his family, until his children are 21, (legacies to be paid at 25).
If they are in need or sick, between the ages of 21 and 25, the guardians can pay out of the estate to support them. They should be brought up to some trade, considered by guardians to be most advantageous.
Witnesses: Henry? Mannerings, Clement Crispe and Leonard P. Haff
Proved 29th January 1810
32. WHITE MARBLE PLAQUE, SOUTH WALL OF HALL
BENEATH THIS STONE
LIETH THE BODY OF MARY ONLY
DAUGHTER OF THOMAS AND MARY
ROBBINS OF THIS PARISH SHE
DEPARTED THIS LIFE MARCH THE
20th 1812 IN THE 30th YEAR
OF HER AGE
MARY WIFE OF THOMAS ROBBINS
DIED FEBRUARY THE 12th 1826
AGED 67 YEARS
THE ABOVE THOMAS ROBBINS
DIED APRIL THE 18th 1835
AGED 82 YEARS
Thomas Robbins is a Watch Maker, (Burial Register, entry for daughter, Mary)
P.C.C Will dated 29th April 1834
Thomas Robbins is of St. Margaret's, Rochester.
His freehold in King Street, Rochester, to his sister, Rachel Viney, widow, for ever.
If she dies in his lifetime, then to nephew, George Morson Viney, son of Rachel, for ever.
To Susanna Parker, widow of Peter Parker, late of Loose, Bricklayer, brother of his late wife, an annuity of £12 6s, for life. This by virtue of a policy from the United Kent Life Assurance and Annuity Institution or Company, dated 25th February 1829. To Peter Parker, son of Susannah, £100 3% Consolidated Bank Annuities; to Elizabeth Nash, wife of John Nash, of Boughton Monchelsea, Wheelwright, daughter of Susanna Parker, £100 of the latter stock; to Mary Wilkins, wife of Thomas Wilkins of East Farleigh, Husbandman, also a daughter of Susanna, £100 of same stock; to William Parker, also a son of Susanna, £100 of the same stock; to Ann Barton, wife of William Barton, also a daughter of Susanna, £100 of same stock; to Susanna Parker, daughter of Susanna, £250 of same stock; to Sarah Reeves, wife of John Reeves, of Linton, another daughter of Susanna, £100 of same stock; to Mary Wood, wife of John Wood, of Loose, Paper Maker, £100 of same stock; to niece, Catherine Robbins, daughter of his late brother John, £500 of same stock; to his sister, Rachel Viney, £100 same stock, if she dies in his lifetime, then the £100 stock to George Morson Viney; to [Sarah] Seaton of Chatham, widow of Benjamin Seaton, "lately deceased", £100 of same stock, "as a testimony of my esteem for herself and her said late husband"; to Edward Seaton of St. Margaret's, Surgeon and Robin Cooper of Maidstone, Gentleman, £100 each of same stock for their kindness as executors of his will.
To Ann Robbins, widow of his late brother, William, £200 cash; his clothes to Peter Parker and William Parker, equally; household linen to Susanna Parker; ready money, securities, money in Public Funds, goods, chattels and personal estate, to Susanna Parker the Younger, who now lives with him.
Witnesses: D. B. Lewis, Solicitor, Rochester, Charles Dorret and William Dorret, his Clerks.
Proved 19th May 1835
33. HEADSTONE, EAST WALL OF PORCH
Joseph Seaton and family,
now in the porch, may have come from stone tomb close by?
JOSEPH SEATON
DIED 23rd OCTOBER 1811
AGED 69 YEARS
HE LEFT ISSUE FIVE SONS
AND SIX DAUGHTERS
NEAR THIS PLACE ARE INTERRED ALSO
THE REMAINS OF AN INFANT SON
RACHEL WIFE OF THE ABOVE
JOSEPH SEATON
DIED 20th OCTOBER 1826
AGED 81 YEARS
ROBERT BARROWS SEATON
SON OF THE ABOVE
DIED 19th SEPTEMBER 1847
AGED 64 YEARS
MARY SEATON
DAUGHTER OF THE ABOVE
DIED 9th OCTOBER 1852
AGED 73 YEARS
P.C.C. Will dated 28th August 1811
Joseph Seaton was a Cabinet Maker of Chatham, also a Minister of the Chapel.
Appoints John Pirie of Tovil, Paper Maker and Benjamin Martin of Barfreston, Yeoman and Rachel his wife, executors. To his wife all linen, china, plate and household furniture, except stoves, buffets, fixtures and copper, which remain in house, books, except Burnet's History of his Times, which goes to son Benjamin. His stock in trade to be valued by his partner, son Joseph and son in law, John Tribe, if his wife and executors approve, otherwise, "men of integrity", so that value of his personal estate, including money, investments, debts and effects may be known.
To wife, £400; to son Joseph, £200,; to daughters, Rachel, Sarah, Mary and Hannah, 100 guineas each. Surplus of personal estate divided equally between his children. Annuity of £120 to wife for life. To son Benjamin, his freehold house in Chatham, for ever, on condition that he pay the annuity of £120 to his mother, and 6 months after her death, the following legacies, to daughter Elizabeth Hemsley, wife of Thomas, Optician in London, £300; to daughter, Rhoda, wife of John Tribe of Chatham, Innkeeper, £300; to daughters, Rachel, Sarah, Mary and Anna, £300 each; to son Joseph, £300; to sons Edward Love, Thomas and Robert Barrows, £200 each.
Witnesses: Benjamin Chilley, Thomas Robbins and B. C. Rice
Proved 28th November 1811
Rachel Seaton, widow of Joseph, Archdeaconry Court of Rochester Will, dated 27th January 1824
Of New Road, Chatham.
Good friends William Buss of Cranbrook, Gentleman and William Phillips of Chatham, Gentleman, are executors.
Immediately after her death, the grave of her husband in the burial ground of the General Baptist Meeting House in Chatham, should be bricked and her body interred there, a flat stone to be placed on it and inscribed, "Joseph Seaton and Rachel, his wife", with dates of their respective deaths.
To executors, her leasehold house in New Road, for remainder of term, upon trust, to sell for best price.
They to pay debt of £150 owed to her daughter Anna Seaton; to son in law, John Tribe of Chatham, Inn Keeper, £100 to discharge debt of her son in law Thomas Hemsley of London, Optician; to grand daughter, Rachel Love Tribe, daughter of John Tribe, £100 at 21, if Rachel dies pre 21, then the £100 to her sisters Mary and Anna Tribe at 21. To son Joseph, £20; to daughter, Rhoda Tribe wife of John, £5 to buy a ring with following inscription, "The Gift of An Affectionate Mother", or similar sentiment; £5 to son Thomas for like purchase. Mourning rings to value not exceeding 2 guineas, to friends, Sarah wife of son Benjamin, Elizabeth wife of son, Joseph, Sarah wife of son Edward, Mary wife of William Buss, Eleanor wife of Frederick Turner of Chatham, Chemist, Mary daughter of [ ] Stoodward, Carpet Manufacturer near Kidderminster, to William Hore of Ludgate Hill, Book Seller, Sarah wife of Rev. Thomas Stevenson of Loughborough, (a much respected friend of her late husband) and to [ ] wife of William Phillips. Any surplus to daughters Elizabeth Hemsley and Mary Seaton, equally. To daughter Elizabeth, bedstead, mattress and her bed she usually sleeps in and 2 bolsters, 2 pillows, 3 blankets, white counterpane, marked E.H.
Also her escritoire, bookcase, tea urn, 2 silver table spoons marked A.N.S, 6 silver tea spoons, pair of sugar tongs and ring inscribed "Henrietta Pyall" and large family bible.
If daughter Elizabeth dies before testator, her legacy to her daughter, Elizabeth, if the latter dies, then to her sisters, Sophia and Louisa Hemsley.
To daughter Rachel, 2 silver table spoons and ring initialled E.P.; to daughter, Mary Seaton, a chest of drawers in front bedroom and double chest of drawers, 2 silver table spoons, 6 silver tea spoons and pair of sugar tongs, black velvet cloak and wedding ring; to daughter Anna Seaton, 2 chest of drawers in back bedroom, 2 silver table spoons and ring inscribed "Mary Robbins"; to son Joseph, her clock, 2 silver table spoons with fiddle handles and gravy spoon; to son Edward, 2 silver gravy spoons, 2 silver forks, 2 silver tea spoons, marked R.L.; to son Robert Barrows, bedstead and hangings, feather bed, bolster and pillows, 3 blankets, 1 coverlet, 2 pairs sheets. All her clothes, linen and china to daughters Elizabeth and Mary, equally.
Shaky signature
Witnesses: J. Stephens and M.S. Stephens
Proved 21st November 1826, value of goods and chattels less than £800
Mary Seaton, Spinster, P.C.C. Will dated 11th September 1851
Brother in Law Robert Cooper, of Maidstone, Gentleman, is executor.
To Sarah Seaton of Maidstone, widow of late brother, Benjamin, 350; to niece, Jane daughter of Sarah Seaton, £50; to brother, Edward, £150; to brother Joseph of Chatham, £150; to brother Thomas of West Malling, 19 guineas, (as a mark of affection); to sister Rhoda Tribe, widow, £100; to nephew, Dr. Edward Cator Seaton of Sloane Street, Chelsea, £100; to nephew, Joseph Seaton, of Dalston, 19 guineas; to niece, Anne Seaton, of Dalston, 19 guineas; to nephew, John Tribe of Chatham, £30; to nephew, Sampson Seaton of Chatham, £10; to 3 nieces, Sarah, Anna and Elizabeth Seaton daughters of brother Joseph, £10 each; to niece, Sophia Hawley, 19 guineas. If brother Edward dies in her lifetime, his legacy to his wife; legacy to Dr Edward Seaton, not to discharge him from any debt he owes testator.
Residue to sister Anna Cooper wife of Robert.
Witnesses: John Case, Solicitor, Maidstone and Henry P. Hoadly, Clerk to Mr Case.
Proved 23rd October 1852
34. HEADSTONE, EAST WALL OF PORCH
Edward Seaton and family, now in the porch
SACRED
TO THE MEMORY OF
EDWARD SEATON ESQ.
SURGEON R. N.
BORN AT CHATHAM OCTOBER 7th 1784
AND DIED AT DALSTON NEAR
LONDON MARCH 18th 1852
AGED 67 YEARS
ALSO OF SARAH WIFE OF THE ABOVE
EDWARD SEATON ESQ.
WHO DIED MARCH 14th 1854
AGED 66 YEARS
ALSO OF SARAH ANNE DAUGHTER
OF THE ABOVE WHO DIED OCTOBER
19th 1831 AGED TWELVE YEARS
ALSO OF MARY WHO DIED DECEMBER
13th 1835 AGED SEVEN YEARS
AND OF FIVE OTHER DAUGHTERS
WHO DIED IN INFANCY
P.C.C. Will dated 26th February 1845
All money, goods, personal estate, etc., to wife Sarah, she is executor.
Witnesses: John Tribe, Chemist, 137 High Street, Chatham and Mary Seaton of Chatham.
Affidavit dated 15th April 1852
John Tribe the Younger, Chemist, sworn, that he was present when testator signed will, and that he and other witness signed in each other's presence and that of the testator. Edward Seaton was formerly of Rochester and late of Richmond Terrace, Queen's Road, Dalston, a Surgeon on half pay in the Royal Navy.
Proved 19th April 1852
35. WHITE MARBLE PLAQUE, SOUTH WALL OF HALL
IN LOVING MEMORY OF
MR. THOMAS SWAN
WHO DIED FEBRUARY THE 15th 1895
AGED 66 YEARS
ALSO
CATHERINE JOHNSON SWAN
THE BELOVED WIFE OF THE ABOVE
WHO DIED OCTOBER THE 14th 1859
IN THE 33rd YEAR OF HER AGE
ALSO
HANNAH
SECOND WIFE OF THE ABOVE
WHO DIED DECEMBER THE 4th 1886
AGED 66 YEARS
The Swans are buried in St. Mary, Chatham, burial ground in Whiffen's Avenue. Their broken headstone is no. 40 from the eastern end of the north wall.
Principal Probate Registry Wills Index
Of 7 Watt's Place, Chatham. Superannuated Joiner, H.M. Dockyard,Chatham. Granted to Mary Ann Lessey, Spinster, Elizabeth Cooper wife of Richard Cooper and Richard James Cooper , Furniture Salesman. Value £209 5s 5d
36. MARBLE PLAQUE, NORTH WALL OF CHAPEL
IN
AFFECTIONATE
MEMORY OF
THOMAS FELIX
THOMAS
WHO DIED AT DURBAN
NATAL
21st JANUARY 1897
AGED 25 YEARS
SIXTH SON OF
HENRY FELIX THOMAS
AND GRANDSON OF THE LATE
REVD. THOMAS FELIX THOMAS
FORMERLY MINISTER
OF THIS CHURCH
"He Trusted in the Lord"
37. BRASS PLAQUE, SOUTH WALL OF HALL
THIS CHURCH WAS RE-BUILT AND
ENLARGED IN LOVING MEMORY OF
JOHN AND SELINA TRIBE
OF ROCHESTER AND CHATHAM, KENT
BY THEIR DAUGHTERS, SELINA TRIBE
AND MARY LOVE WOOD AND WAS
DEDICATED ON THE 20th FEBRUARY 1889
Unitarian Churchyard plan
Index of Names - from gravestones only
Names Index
BACON 1
BELLIS 18
BOND 2
BOWLES 30, 31
BRIDGE 3
CO[ ] 28
DARBAN 17
DAVIES 16DAVIS 29
DYER 17
EDWARDS 4
GIBBS 17
GURR 18
HOLLINGSHEAD 5
IGGLESDEN 6
JARVIS 7
JOHNSON 35KAINS 8
KINGSFORD 9
MARDEN 18
MARTEN 17
MEAD? 5
PUDNER 19
ROBBINS 32
SEATON 10, 20, 33, 34
SHARP 9SWAN 35
SWEETLAND 21
THOMAS 22, 36
TRIBE 10, 23, 37
TROUP 11
WOOD 23, 24
WRIGHT 4
WYATT 18