Wills

Mortimer Will Abstracts

Mortimer Will Abstracts

Will transcripts and abstracts are particularly useful for genealogists as they detail family relationships and provide a small glimpse into ordinary people’s lives. These Mortimer wills relate to the county of Devon, and many were made by Sir Henry Farnham Burke (1859-1930), herald at the College of Arms. These records are particularly valuable, considering the vast majority of Devon wills were destroyed by fire during the Exeter Blitz in World War II. In many instances, the will transcripts include a value of the testator’s estate, shown here as the “Sum”. Part 1 includes the Mortimer wills in Devon, grouped by location and family. The earliest will is that of Nycholas Mortymore of Sandford, in 1556, and the latest is John Mortimer, 1797. Part 2 relates to Mortimers in Cornwall and Part 3 includes wills of the Mortimer alias Tanner family, who were presumably related to the Mortimer family in Devon.

Mortimer Wills Part 1: Devon


Sandford & Crediton


Will of Nycholas Mortymore of Sandford, 12 Dec 1556.

Bequeaths his ” soul to Almighty God and our Lady the Virgin, and to all the Holy Company of Heaven.”,
To the ” High Cross,” 20d.,
To son John, six silver spoons,
To son Davye, a littell crocke, and a four gallon panne, and three silver spoons
To daughter Agnes, a white panne of five gallons,
To Margaret Parkhouse, a five gallon panne,
Like bequests to Edward and Joane Mortymore,
Residue to wife Joan, sole executrix.

Debts owed: To Christey Hop, 12s, to James Mortymer, 40s.
Witnesses: Sir William Tristamb, John Vilvayne, James Mortymore.
Proved 10 Feb 1556/7.

 

Will of James Mortymer of Sandford, 19 Oct 1558.

To be buried in parish church, and leaves to the maintenance thereof two sheep.
He disperses the residue of his flock between his “godchildren ” John Mortymer the younger and Ebbot Rowe.
To John Hokeridge, £3 6s. 8d.
To Nicholas Tree, 33/4d.
Residue to son John Mortymer, “he to dispose of part of my goods for the wealth of my soul, and the rest for the preservation of his bodye.”

Trustee: Robert Gye, “gent.”
Witnesses, Sir Thomas Lobone, clerk, and Thomas Mortymer.
Proved 15 Nov 1558.

 

Will of Agnes Mortimer of Sandford, 27 May 1569

She devises to be buried in Sandford Church, and leaves to the poor there 2s.
To my servant “my best round gown”, two kerchiefs & pletter
To “my son in law” John Dier 43/ 4d. “which he owes me” and a brazen pot etc.
To Elizabeth Dier 3/ 4d.
To John & Richard, children of John Dier, 3/ 4d.- half a dozen sheep & a “Chandeler” apeece
To “my daughter Alice Kelond” “my best new panne” etc.
Also a cow “now in John Richards hands at Morchard”
Residue to my son John Mortimer, who is sole exor.
Two trustees. Jno Dier & Jno Osborne,
Witnesses. Jno Delfe, Jno Osborne, “with others”
There are several legacies to servants

Proved 4th May 1571
Sum £3 17s 8d.

 

Will of Thomas Mortimer, bef. 1581

The last will of Thomas Mortimer “well disposed & god.wende”
He devizes to be buried in the Church-yard of Sandford” betweene the Chancell door & the palme crosse & to have a limbe upon my burial & a broad stone upon it”.
He leaves to the maintenance of Sandford Church /12d.
To each “of the poor of Sandford Town, two seams of wool & to the poor of Bridge (Credy?) a seame apeece”.
To each of his five servants 20s. each.
To Joan wife of John Milford 6/8d.
To John Maunder’s children 3/4d. each
The same to John Robert’s children
Residue to John Maunder “my son in law” & Mary wife of John Roberts “my daughter”, who are joint exors.
Witnesses. Thos Hutchings, Thos Moxage
Proved 3 Jun 1581
Sum £88 18s.

 

 

 

Will of John Mortimer of Priorton, yeoman, 1 Feb 1604/5

A copy of John Mortimer’s will can be read here on Genuki.

 

The last will of Roger Mortimer, of Crediton, yeoman, 24 Oct 1613

He leaves to his wife Joanna £5 13s. 4d., the first year after his death, & after that a yearly rent of £13 5s 8d., charged on the tenement “where I now dwell” also certain beds etc.
To “my son” Robert, “the lease of my tenement & living where I now dwell”
To “my son” John £20 at 23. to include a legacy left him by Gilbert Phillip decd. also £3 to cover “a legacy left him by the will of my brother John Mortimer decd.”
To my son Roger £20 & to my daughter Joanna £20, to include legacies left them by the said Gilbert Phillip.
Residue to Robert his said son who is sole exor.
Witnesses: Hugh Harris, clerk, Peter Gye gent., Wm Thomas, yeoman
Proved 13 Jun 1614

 

Jane Mortimer of Poughill, spinster, 27 Aug 1622.

To my mother, Joan Philpe, 40s.
To brothers John and Roger Mortimer, 30s. “To the ringers of my knell,” 12d. each.
Other bequests to William Dodridge, and to Robert, his son, and to Walter Barton.
Residue to cousin, Robert Gye, sole exor.

Proved 19 Sep 1623.

Note. See will of her father Roger Mortimer, 1613

 

Nuncupative will of Julian Mortimer of Sandford, Crediton, widow, 1611

To all her children 20s. each & to her grandchildren /12d. each
She divides her apparell, ebtween her daughter, Mary Downe & “John” Strente (sic.)
To Julian, daughter of Thomas Streete 20s.
Witnesses- Thos Northcott, Jno Mortimer “with others”
Proved 21 Dec 1613

 

The last will of Gilbert Mortymer, of Sandford, yeoman, 27 Mar 1619/20

He desires to be buried in Sandford church “neare my seate therein”
He leaves to the common stock of the parish of Sandford 40s.
To his sons, Roger & Gilbert £60 each with remdr. to survivor, & to his son in law Robert Smale.
To his brother William, 20s. & to his children 1s. each.
To his sisters Mary Downe, & Joane Moore, 10s. each & to their children 1s. each
To Phillip Winter “sometimes the wife of my brother Thomas” 2s. & to her children by my brother 1s. each
To “the three children of my brother Gilbert of Witheridge” 1s. each
Residue to Joan my wife who is sole executrix
2 Trustees. James Aysshe, Robert Smale
Witnesses. the sd. Trustees & Richard Bonyfont
Proved 26 Apr 1620
Sum £177 0s. 6d.

Note. Date 18 James I

 

Admon. of John Mortimore of Thorverton admon. 12 Jan 1680/1

Admon. to John Norrish, their uncle, for the benefit of Thomas Mortimore and Lewis Melhuish, brothers of deceased.
Dyonisius Melhuish of Thorverton joins the bond.

 

The last will of John Mortimer of Sandford, Husbandman., 1 May 1691

He leaves to Roger Mortimer “my eldest son” “my Table board”.
To Mary Mortimer “my eldest daughter” “my Easter dwelling house” & the chest” that was given her by her grandmother.
To “my daughter Joan” “my box to put clothes in” “my said daughters, and my daughter Jenny are to have the pewter dishes given them severally by their Godfathers, & God-mothers.
Residue to John Mortimer my son who is sole exor.
Witnesses: Joan Mortimer, David Vicarye
Proved 2 Aug 1692
Sum £46 16s. 2d.

 

Administration to the effects etc. of Hugh Mortimer of Sandford decd., 12 Mar 1613/4

Administration was granted on the above date to Elizabeth his relict
Sum £63 0s. 10d.

 

The last will of Elizabeth Mortimer, of Sandford, 18 Apr 1614

She leaves to Joane Downe “my daughter” “my great best chest & all that is in it” also “my best gown, my best stamys wast-coat, a laffatn apron & my best carpet”.
To Edward Clotworthy 10s.
Residue to Andrew Mortimer, my son, who is sole exor.
Trustee, Andrew Payne, who witnesses with Ambrose Carpenter,
She further leaves to Marie Clotworthy her best stainell coat, white apron, & one yard & a half of new lynnen cloth in my coffer.
Proved 7 May 1614
Sum £32 3s. 4d.

Will of Andrew Mortymer of Sandford, 20 Feb 1617/8

Leaves to wife rent charge on land in Crediton and Cheriton FitzPain, terminable on the life of Thomas Mortymore, charged with an annuity of _ to son, John Mortymer.
Residue to wife, sole executrix.

Trustees, in minority of said son, William Bremridge and William Esworthy.
Proved 20th March, 1617/8

NOTE. Date 16th year of King James. His Wife’s name was not given. The Will was proved again, thirty-two years later, by his wife’s second husband, as can be seen below:

(Andrew?) Mortimore of Upton Helinge, Husbandman, dated 2Oth Feb 1649 (16 James)

To “wife” the residue of a lease of rent-charge upon property in Crediton and Cheriton Fitz-Payne, determinable on the life of Thomas Mortimore
he charges it with an annuity of 5 to son John.

Trustees: William Bremebridge and William Esworthy, with 6s. 8d. each for their trouble.

Name of Exor. omitted ; residue undisposed of.
Witnesses: John Passord, Henry Stogdon, John Hayman, Bartholomew Goche.

Administration granted 16 Jul, 1649, to Christopher Payne, the husband of Agnes, relict and executor, de jure, of deceased, called Andrew Mortimore of Upton Hellions, in the Calendars of the district registry, and who had died without proving her father’s will.

 

Admon. of John Mortimer of Upton Hellions, admon. 10 Jun 1625.

Admon. granted to Christopher, father of Christopher Payne, brother in law of deceased.

 

Admon. of Agnes Mortimer alias Payne, of Upton Hellions, admon. 26 Apr 1626

Admon. granted to Christopher Payne.

Note. She was presumably the wife of Andrew Mortimer d.1617, and married secondly, Christopher Payne, who had a son Christopher by a previous marriage.

 

Will of John Mortimer of Lithybrook, Sandford, _th Feb 1640 (1639/40)

Sons James, John, and Gilbert
daughters Frances wife of Robert Chapell, and Ann and Joan Mortimer.
Residue to wife Wilmot Mortimer, sole executrix.

Witnesses John Woodly, Roger Mortimer.
Proved Feby 1639.
[Sum £30 9s. 10d.]

Note. Copy in Devon Wills by C. Worthy makes the mistake of stating the location as Cheriton Bishop, when in fact analysis of the parish records show this will to be that of John Mortimer at Lithybrook, Sandford, near to Priorton Barton.

 

The last will of William Mortimer of North Creedy in Sandford, Crediton, 28 Jul 1604

He leaves to the poor of this quarter of Sandford 5s.
To his brother Richard 5s.
To Joane Meire, my daughter, £6
To William & Edward, sons of William Meire, one pair of lombes each
To Margaret “my daughter” 40s. and the remainder of certain furniture
To each of John Mortimer’s children /12d. each.
To John Mortimer, the younger, son of the said John, my son in law 40s. at 21
To Ann Ponsford my daughter £10
To John Ponsford son of William, “my son in law” one yeo lamb.
Residue to Joan who is sole executrix
Trustees: Richard Rede, Mr Densham & Wm Ponsford
Witnesses: The first two trustees, & John Hall
Proved 31 Aug 1604
Sum £19 8s. 3d.

 

Will of John Mortimer of Ranscombe in Sandford Crediton, 28 May 1607

He leaves to his son John “all my lands tenements & hereditaments of Ranscombe to him & his heirs for ever, together with the “Here corner close called the Parcke”
To William Weekes, the younger “one heyfer” & to each of the other children of William Weeks, my son in law, one yeo lamb apeece
The same to William Halse & “to the rest of Robert Halse’s children”, The same to “the children of John Mortimer”
To Agnes, wife of Robert Halse, 40s.
To the poor of Sandford 10s.
To William Jossop /12d.
Residue to Katherine his wife who is sole executrix.
Witnesses. Thos Kelland, Jno Phillip, Jno Chilcott
Proved 12 Feb 1612/3
Sum £153 0s. 6d.

 

Administration to the effects etc. of Wilmot Mortymer of Sandford, 11 Jan 1636/7

Granted on the above date to John Mortymer her father.
Sum £6 13s. 0d.

 

Administration to the effects etc. of John Mortimer late of Sandford decd., 9 Feb 1636/7

Granted on the above date to Margerie his wife
James Mortimer of the same parish joins the bond.
Sum £234 1s. 8d.

 

The last will of Margerie Mortimer of Sandford, widow of John Mortimer, 18 Dec 1638

She leaves a tenement in Creedy, Sandford, granted by Sir Robert Chichester of Ralegh, & determinable on the lives of her children John & Margerie, as follows. One portion of the sd. tenmt. defined by met* & bounds to her son Roger.
A dielf of 9 acres, called Chaunter’s park, to her son James, during his life & that of her son Robert.
The rest of the Creedy tenmd. to her daughter Agnes & Catherine, who are sole exors.
Residue to her said daughters.
2 Trustees: Jno Vickery & Roger Lane will 4s. each.
Witnesses: Wm Vickery, Margery Lane
Proved 30 Oct 1640
Sum £205 13s. 0d.

 

Administration to the effects etc. of John Mortymer late of Sandford decd., 13 Oct 1643

Inventory made 11 Oct 1643.
Sum £35.
Exhibited by Katherine Mortimer his sister & exor. 13 Oct 1643.

 

The last will of Richard Mortimer of Crediton, 25 Sep _

He leaves to the poor there /6d.
Residue to Jone his wife who is sole exor.
Witnesses. Wm Reve & Wm Oliver
Trustees. John Kene, his Father in law & Lawrence “Morthemer” his brother
Proved 2 Jul 1591
Sum £18 0s. 10d.

 

The last will of Lawrence Mortymer, of Crediton, wever, 19 Jul 1623*

*Dated 21 James I.
He leaves to John his son, his best pair of lombes, & his great chest
He gives to Luce his wife for life, with reverson to Walter his son, his leasehold cottage, it is charged with £3 per annum, after the death of his wife, to the sd. John his son, and Johane, Mary & Thomasyn, his daughters.
Residue to his said wife who is sole executrix.
2 Trustees. Nathaniel Lee, & Robt Hooke
Proved 30 Oct 1623
Sum £18 16s. 8d.

 

Administration to the effects etc. of Benjamin Mortimer, late of Morchard Bishop, decd., 25 Aug 1686

Administration granted 25 Aug 1686.
To Mary wife of John Smith, & Frances wife of William Southcott, both of Morchard
Sum £18 19s. 2d.

 

Will of Francis Mortimore of Down St Mary, 21 Jul 1705

Leaves “easter house” to son John,
and his “wester house” to his children Roger, Francis, and Elizabeth, after his wife’s death.
To children Simon and Hannah, 2Os. each.
Residue to wife Elizabeth, sole exor. She is to remain a widow or forfeit.

Proved 16 Oct 1706.

 

Tiverton


Admon. of John Mortimer of Tiverton, Sep 1618

Admon. granted to Silvester Parkehowse
[Sum £10 5s. 6d.]

 

Admon. of Nicholas Mortimore of Tiverton, 1624

Admon. granted 21st Sep 1624, to John Bastard, his son in law.

 

Will of William Mortimore the elder, of Tiverton, 22 Aug 1682.

Desires to be buried in Crediton Churchyard.
“To William Mortimore’s wife my three gold rings.”
To son, John Mortimore, ” one sylver spoone.”
Residue to sons, William and John Mortimore, who are joint exors.

Proved 16 May 1683.

Seal: oval seal in black wax charged with a fleur-de-lys.

 

Colebrooke


The last will of John Mortimer of Colebrook, 23 Dec 1568

He leaves to the Church there 6s 8d.
“To our Ladye’s store, & to the store of St. Anthony” a sheep to each.
To Elizabeth “my daughter” three bushels of “rie” six of malt, & two of wheat
He wills that if Christian his wife will permit Thomas his son to have the moiety of his “bargaine” called Great & Little Hele, then she is to have half the goods with the said Thomas, but if she refuses then she is to have £18 out of the estate.
Residue to said Thomas, who is sole exor.
3 Trustees. Morris & John Kingwill, & Edmond Tayler
Witnesses. John Riche Curate, Jno Kingwill “& others”
Proved.

 

The last will of Thomas Mortymer of Colebrook, 14th Jan, 13 Elizabeth (1573)

He leaves to the maintenance of the Church there, one sheep.
To his daughter, Mary Mortymer, “four sheep & a heiffer”
Residue to “my wyfe” who is sole executrix.
Two Trustees. Morris Gowre & Jno Venycombe
Witnesses. Henry Radinge, clerk, & the said Trustees.
Proved 16 Apr 1573

 

Hemyock


Will of James Mortimer of Uplowman 25 Jan 1711/2

Legacies to son James and his children, Mary, Susannah, and James
to daughter Susannah and her husband, John Kyte, and their children, Susannah, Mary, Elizabeth, and Agnes
to grandson Richard Mortimer
to Susanna, Mary, and James, children of son John
to grandsons John and Hugh, and granddaughter Jane Mortimer.
Residue to son John, sole exor.

Trustees: John Chave of Uplowman, and Richard Locke of Sampford Peverel.

Proved 16 Apr 1716

 

The last Will of John Mortimore of Uplowman, 15 or 18 Apr 1728.

Legacies to sons James and John, to daughter Mary Fini-
more and her husband Humphry, each 1s.

To Hugh Mortimore remainder of cottage called Crossland ; another
tenement called “Cleaks” to daughter Joan.

Residue to said wife, sole executrix.

Proved 22 May 1729

 

Will of Agnes Mortimer of Shobrooke, widow, 6 Jan 1618/9

Gives certain household goods to Ambrose, John, and Agnes, children of Hugh Gregory of Culmstock.
Said Agnes to have “best petticoat, and white fustian waistcoat, white linnen apron, partlett & kerchief, at 21 years of age.”

To daughter Margaret Wood, “one greate vaute (vat) and best gowne.”
To Thomasine, daughter of said Margaret, ” a skillett and a gridiron.”
To John, brother of last, ” one great brass candlestick and one bran dishe.”
To latter’s brother, Nicholas Wood, another brass candlestick,
and to William, another brother, ” the least candlestick.”
1 8s. to be expended on her funeral.
Residue to son in law, William Wood, sole exor.

Proved _ Mar 1618/9.
[Sum __ 6d.]

 

Tedburn St Mary


Will of Elizabeth Mortymer of Tedburn St. Mary, widow, 1606.

Bequests of Clothes, furniture, or sheep, to Son William and his wife Margery, and their ” children.”
To daughter Thomasine, Cousins Elizabeth and “Mock”(?) and to Thomas and Jone French.
To cousin Walter Mortimer, to Jone Connett and to Goddaughter Rose ” Temlett ” (Tremlett ?). The last has ” a Wastcote, a peare of hose, and shoes.”
Residue to Son John, sole exor.

Trustees: James Woodley and John French.
Witnesses: Thomas French, Thomasine Wonstone, & Christian Collihole.
Proved 19 Dec, 1606.

[Sum £5 13s. 8d.]

 

Will of Thomas Mortimore of Tedburn St Mary, 26 Nov 1619.

To the maintenance of Tedburn Church 5s..
To Sons Thomas and Nathaniel 4Os. each, at 21.
“Item I give unto them one brassen panne contayninge by estimation about forteene gallandes after my wife Wilmott’s death.”
To dau. Elizabeth and Son John 4Os. each at 21.
Residue to wife Wilmot, sole executrix.

Trustees: William May of May of Dunsford and Richard May of Tedbourn.
Proved 17 Dec 1619.
[Sum £33 8s.]

 

Admon. of Maria Mortimer of Cheriton, 6 Oct 1669

Admon. granted to Thomas Ward, her son.
Thomas Ward of Cheriton, husbandman, joins the bond

 

Will of Walter Mortimere of North Bovy, 16 Apr 1672

Legacies to sons John, Thomas, and Walter,
and to daughters Richord Mortimere and Thomasinc Langdon.
Residue to wife Richord, sole executrix.

Proved 3 Apr 1672

 

Will of Richord Mortimere of North Bovey, Widow, 5 Nov 1678

To daughter Thomasine Langdon, ” all my clouse woolling & lening except my best geompt.”
To granddaughter Thomasine Langdon, ” my best goumpt towrn, and one pudyer dish.”
Similar legacies to grandchild John, son of Thomas Mortimere ;
to grandchild John, son of John Mortimere ;
to son John Mortimere;
to son Walter Mortimere;
to grandchild William Mortimere ;
to daughter Richord White, ” my meidle coat & wascout.”
Residue to son Thomas Mortimore, sole exor.

Witnesses: William Paulle, junr., John Knowling, John Brocke.
Proved 26 Jul 1679

 

Admon. of John Mortimore of North Bovey, 26 Jul 1679

Administration was granted on the above date to his widow Isot.

 

Will of Walter Mortimer of North Bovey, Yeoman, 1754

To wife Joan, the best bed,
Bequests to eldest son George,
To daughter Agnes, wife of John Boone, and to their children, Joan, Mary, Benjamin, Elizabeth, and Susanna Boone.
To daughter Mary Mortimer 10, and to son in law Richard Honniwill 2/6.
Residue to sons Walter and Nicholas Mortimoor, who are joint exors.

Witnesses: John Willcocke, John Tallamy, George Underhay.
Proved 8 May 1754.

 

Will of George Mortimore of North Bovey, 13 May 1786

Leaves the ” Cumbe ” estate in said parish to his four daughters Anne, Mary, Joan, and Elizabeth, in fee simple.
Legacies to “three children of daughter Ann
to John German and George Mortimore German, sons of daughter Mary
to granddaughters Elizabeth and Grace Richards ; to be paid them by daughter Joan.”
“The lands in Ashburton belonging to daughter Elizabeth to go after her death to her two daughters, Grace and Elizabeth Richards.”
To grandson John French, son of daughter Elizabeth.
Residue to daughters Mary and Joan, who are joint exors.

Trustee: son in law Richard Eastabrook.
Proved 1p Nov 1787.

 

Will of Sampson Mortimore of Drewsteignton, 15 Mar 1711/2.

_ for his funeral.
Certain ” peculiar goods ” to wife Elizabeth.
Legacies to son John,
daughters Elizabeth and Ann
daughter Mary, now wife of Mark Cumbe, and to their daughter Sarah
to daughters Sarah and Susannah,
and to daughter Joan, wife of William Seaward
to grandchildren William Mortimore, and to John, Sampson, James, Edward, and Thomasine, children of said son John.
Residue to son Sampson, sole exor.

Witnesses: Thomas Amerie, John Symes, and Job Glenvile.
Proved 2 May 1712

 

Admon. of Maria Mortimore of Drewsteignton, 20 Jul 1716

Administration was granted on the above date to John Dicker, her brother.

 

Will of John Mortimore of Drewsteignton, 30 Apr 1734.

Bequests to sons William, John, Sampson, James, and Edward, and to daughter Thomasine, in addition to the 20s. each given them by ” their grandfather.”
To grandson John, son of said John Mortimer, 55.
Residue to wife Thomazine, sole executrix.

Proved _ May 1737, by James the son, his brothers and sister having renounced, and their mother having died without proving.

[Sum over £200]

 

Will of William Mortimer of Drewsteignton, 18 Sep 1763

To daughter Mary Frost, widow, small annuity and legacy
the same to daughters Joanna ” Houdg ” and Thomazine, wife of John Buard
and to grandson Joseph Buard.
Residue, with leasehold interest in Knowle estate, to son William Mortimer, sole exor.

Proved 30 Mar 1767.

 

Will of Sampson Mortimer of Drewsteignton, 22 Jan 1774

To daughter Elizabeth an annuity of 383. a year out of Knowle, in said parish.
He mentions a legacy of 2 given her by her grandfather.
Similar legacy to daughter Thomazine, who is also to have a ” family spoon ” lettered S M.
Residue to son James, sole exor.

Proved 5 Jan 1776.

 

Admon. of Matthew Mortimore of Christowe, 15 Nov 1674

Administration was granted on the above date to Isot his relict.

 

Admon. of Matthew Mortimore of Christow, admon. 18 Mar 1705/6

Administration was granted to Edward Mortimore his brother.

Note. Deceased died intestate, and his wife Elizabeth renounced
her right to administer.

 

Admon. of John Mortimer, of Ashton, _ Feb 1643/4

Administration was granted on the above date to Elizabeth Mortimer, wid., the relict.

[Sum 21 43. 2d.]

 

Admon. of Mary Mortimer of Holcomb Burnell, 21 Mar 1680/1

Administration was granted on the above date to daughter Mary Braggats Mortimore

 

Powderham


Mark Mortimor of Powderham, Yeoman, 27 Oct 1727.

In minority of grandson, Mark, son of William Mortimor, a tenement in Powderham to daughter Elizabeth, after decease of wife Mary.
To son William aforesaid, 1s.
Legacies to daughters, Mary, wife of Samuel Ware, ” Easter,” wife of John Row.
To son in law, William Davey, ” my sarge coat and vest, and blew brichers.”
To son in law ” William Row,” best great coat.
Residue to said William Row, sole exor.

Proved l0 Nov 1727.

Note: Mark Mortimer was the younger son of Thomas Mortimer of Cheriton Bishop, husbandman, so is included here.

 

Bridford & Dunsford


Will of Ann Mortimer of Dunsford, Widow, nunc. will, 24 Jun 1618.

To son John Mortimer of Bridford her best gown,
To her natural daughter, Jone Hedgeland the rest of her apparel.
Residue to son Thomas Mortimer, sole exor.

Proved 11 Jul 1618.

 

Will of John Mortimer of Bridford, Husbandman, 1637

To the poor of the parish, 2s.
To son Edward, and to his children, small bequests and also to son Gilbert.
Residue to sons John and Symon Mortimer, joint exors.

Proved 28 Apr, 1637.
[Sum £53 12s.]

 

Nuncupative will of John Mortimoore of Bridford, 1643

To the poor of Bridford _.
To brother Gilbert, 1s.
Residue to two brothers, Edward and Simon, Sole Exors.

Witnesses: Michaell Dollinge, clearke, and Mary, wife of Gilbert Mortimoore of Bridforde.
Proved 29 Dec 1643.
[Sum £23 5s. 4d.]

 

Admon. of Robert Mortimer of Dunsford, 1646

Administration was granted to his wife, Ursula, 13 May 1646.
[Sum £78 5s. 8d.]

 

Will of Edward Mortimore of Bridford, 3 Aug 1650.

To the poor of the parish, 3s. 4d.
To eldest son, Edward, 40, and like sums to sons Abraham, Nathaniel, and Gilbert, at 21, and to daughter Thomasine.
Lease of Townsend living in Dunsford to wife Elizabeth.
Residue to said wife, sole executrix.

Trustees: “good friends Thomas Mortimer of Dunsford and Gilbert Mortimer of St. Thomas”
Proved 6 Sept 1650.
[Sum £47 12s. 4d.]

 

Will of Abraham Mortymer of Bovey Tracy, 14 Jun 1664.

To the poor there, _.
Legacies to Edward, Nathaniel, and Gilbert Mortymer
to sister Thomasine Conant
to godson Abraham Conant
to mother Elizabeth Casely.
Residue to Jane Heath, sole executrix.

Witnesses: Christopher Tynes, William Heath.
Proved 3 Jun 1665

 

Will of Simon Mortimer of Dunsford 1674

Gives 20 each to sons Thomas and ” Symon,” and to daughter Mary Mortimer.
Mentions brother Gilbert Mortimer, son in law George Mortimer,
and sister in law Amy Potter. To grandson George Mortimer, 12.
Residue to wife Ellinor, sole executrix.

Proved 24 March, 1674/5

 

Will of Symon Mortimer of Dunsford, 1687

to nephew Symon, son of Abraham Shilston of said parish, and
to Elizabeth, daughter of brother Thomas, Is. each.
Residue to daughters Ellinor and Dorothy, joint exors.
Remainder to children of brother in law, Nicholas Payne,
and of Mary, wife of brother in law, William Shilhton, “my sister.”

Witnesses John Peddericke, Wilmett Hammett, and John Davy.
Proved nth Nov 1687.

Seal: 3 Estoiles.

 

Admon. of Symon Mortimore of Dunsford, 3 Aug 1698

Administration was granted to Thomasine his widow.

 

Admon. of Nathaniel Mortimore, late of Bridford 3 Feb 1702/3

Administration was granted to Susanna Mortimore, widow.
William Mortimore, of Bridford, joins the bond.

 

Admon. of John Mortimore of Bridford, 3 Feb 1702/3

Administration was granted to his mother Susannah Mortimore.
William Mortimore joins the bond.

 

John Mortimore of Dunsford, 20 Apr 1702

His leasehold estate in said parish to wife Johan for life.
Legacies to grandchildren, sons and daughters of daughter Mary wife of Robert Harris of Crediton, and their children John, Robert, Henry, William, Joseph, and Mary Harris.

Residue to said daughter, Mary Harris, sole executrix.
Proved 24 May 1704.

 

Will of Richard Mortimer of Dunsford, 20 Nov 1768

He gives his son George the Dunsford Mills and the marshes adjoining, ” being part of Court,” charged with 20s. per annum to ” my three daughters.”
To Ann, wife of said George, £1 1s.
To daughters Elizabeth and Ann Mortimer, 70 each, and to daughter Mary, wife of John Connett, 20, and one guinea to her husband.
Wife Ann to have life interest both in the mill and messuages. She is residuary legatee and sole executrix.

Proved 20 Jul 1774.

 

Will of George Mortimer of Dunsford, 14 Apr 1733.

Legacies to John and Richard Mortimer, sons, and to George and Elizabeth Mortimer, grandchildren.
Residue to wife Anna, sole Executrix, but must not marry again.

Witnesses: Joseph and Daniel Tucker.
Proved 23 Oct 1738.

 

Admon. of Susannah Mortimer of Dunsford, 15 Jul 1766

Administration was granted to John Mortimer her husband.

 

Will of Mary, wife of John Mortimer of Dunsford, Yeoman, 8 May 1778.

She bequeaths her separate estate of £180;
$o to nephew Edward Ramsey of Exeter, schoolmaster, son of brother Edward Ramsey, deceased.
To nephew John Ramsey 50.
To Elizabeth, daughter of Richard Mortimer and wife of James Connett, .30.
Residue to husband John Mortimer, sole exor.

Proved 28 Jul 1782.

 

Admon. of George Mortimer of Dunsford, 2 Feb 1778

Administration was granted to Ann the widow.

 

Will of Ann Mortimer of Dunsford, 3 Feb 1778.

To Elizabeth wife of James Connett, .40, and one guinea, instead of a gold ring, six silver teaspoons, and all the ” chainea.”
To daughter Mary, wife of John Connett, 40.
To daughter in law Ann Mortimer, 1 is.
To George and Ann Connett she gives, inter altis, ” my best looking glass and my new prayer-book, with all the tea dishes, saucers, and .basons belonging to makeing of tea, except the spoons.”
Her son George being dead, she gives the residue of the lease of Dunsford Mills to her daughter in law Ann Mortimer, with reversion, for the 99 years,
terminable on the death of ” brother John Mortimer” to George, John, Elizabeth, and Richard, children of deceased son George.

Proved 3 Jul 1778.

 

Exbourne


Nuncupative will of John Mortymer of Exbourne, 25 Jul 1627

To daughter Mary, one great crocke and one brass panne, and 40s. a year during the life of her brother James Mortymer
Exors: daughter Mary and son James sole exors.

Witnesses: William Weekes, George Bond, Dorothy Baker.
Proved 10 Aug 1627
[Sum 138 16s. 4d.]

 

Admon. of John Mortimore of Spreyton, 19 Mar 1669/70

Administration was granted to Alice his wife.

 

Admon. of John Mortimore of Spreyton, 5 Jun 1713

Administration granted in the minority of daughters Catherine, Alice, and Elizabeth, to their uncle, John Hopper.

 

Admon. of John Mortimore, late of Spreyton, 21 Dec 1724

Administration was granted to Alice Mortimore, of goods unadministered by John Hopper. Her sisters, Katherine, wife of John Tregoe of Thorverton, and Elizabeth, wife of Samuel Maine of Colebrook, having renounced.

 

Exeter


Admon. of Thomas Mortimore of Hennock, 6 Dec 1692

Administration was granted to Joane his widow.

 

Will of John Mortimer of Exeter, Goldsmith, Aug 1708

To “my two daughters 1s. apeece.”
Residue to wife Sarah, sole executrix.

Proved 23 Jul 1719

 

Will of Mary Mortimer of Exeter, Spinster, 1734.

She leaves to Nicholas Green and Samuel Weymouth of Exeter, tobacconist, 10 in trust, the interest for the use of the minister of the Baptist meeting. 21st March, 1733(/4).
To brother in law John Mortimer of Froom, Somerset, .5, and to his brother Joseph 5.
Household effects to Sarah, wife of Thomas Wiggington of Exeter, mercer.
China, &c., to ” Miss Mary Hodges,” daughter of ” the Lady Hodges.”
To Mary and Elizabeth Wiggington, a ring each.
Teaspoons to Mary Munn. 2 2s. to ” Revd. Mr. Stennett.”
10 to be spent on funeral.
Residue to nephew and nieces Francis, Susannah, and Jane Taylor, who are joint exors.

Witness, John Conant.
Mrs. Wiggington being dead, Testatrix leaves by Codicil certain effects to Grace Craddick.
Proved 29 Dec 1734.

Notes:

The testator’s so-named brother-in-law was perhaps the John Mortimer of Frome Selwood, a master card maker, named in apprenticeship record, 5 Oct 1732.

Grace Craddick was presumably Grace Mortimer, who married Stephen Cradock, 29 Mar 1714, Frome St John, Somerset. They had a daughter named Grace Cradock, bapt. 23 Dec 1722, Frome, who married John Mortimer, 19 Nov 1753, Frome. She was presumably related to Mary and John Mortimer above. John Mortimer m. 1753 was perhaps a son of the 

The will features several of the children of Samuel Buttall, sugar baker of Topsham. Samuel married Mary, his will was proved in 1723, and his wife Mary made a will proved in 1730. A transcript of both wills can be read here. In Samuel Buttall’s will, he gave £5 to Sarah Mortimer, his old servant. Samuel and Mary Buttall’s daughters Mary and Sarah are both mentioned in the above will: 

1. Mary c.1681-1745, who married Nathaniel Hodges c.1676- a baptist reverend and pastor; the only baptist minister to be knighted, after which he laid down his ministry. Nathaniel Hodges died 27 Aug 1727 aged 51 and was buried in Stepney, London. After Nathaniel Hodges knighthood, Mary wife of Nathaniel Hodges was known as Lady Hodges or Dame Mary Hodges. 

2. Sarah c.1684-1734, who married Thomas Wiggington 4 May 1705 Plymouth Charles the Martyr. Thomas Wiggington c.1681-1735 was a mercer of Exeter, he made a will proved in 1735. 

 

Admon. of Elizabeth Mortimore of Exeter, 9 Feb 1786

Administration was granted to Humphry Mortimore her husband.
Bondsmen: John Evans of the said City, Gentleman, and Robert Lewis, also of Exeter, ” Wool Sorter,” .

 

Rewe by Exeter


Admon. of Henry Mortimer of Rewe, 12 May 1618

Admon. granted to William Mortimer of Torrington, Yeoman.
[Sum £51 1s. 6d.]

 

Admon. of William Mortimore of Rewe, admon. 3– Apr 1632

Administration was granted to his widow Christian Mortimore.

Dennys Mortimer, widow, was a debtor to the estate of deceased.

 

Will of John Mortimer of the Cytie of Exeter, _ Jul 1626,

Leaves his body to Christian burial.
To brother William Mortimer his best cloak.
To “Sister Wilmott” his “Testament”.
To sister in law “Dorothie,” “one boke with a broad forrell called the ‘Sufferings of Christ'”
To John Bayle, a book called ” The plain Man’s Pathway to Heaven.”
To cousin William Hellyar, a paire of loomes.
To sister’s son, ” Richard,” ” so much of my old cloake as will make him a coat.”
To wife’s son Peter, “the little loome.”
Residue to ” my wife,” who is Sole Executrix.

Proved 22 Aug 1626.

Note. The testator’s brother was William Mortimer of Great Torrington, yeo., who administered the estate of Henry Mortimer of Rewe, 12 May 1618.
His sister in law Dorothy was the wife of the above William Mortimer.
His sister Wilmot Mortimer married Humphrey Beaple of Shebbear 27 Apr 1610, Exeter by licence. Her husband died in 1649.
His sister Joanna Mortimer, of Rewe, married William Hellier, 23 Nov 1619, Exeter by licence, and had a son William b.1620

 

Great Torrington & Kentisbury


Will of William Mortymer of Great Torrington, 17 Feb 1673/4

Legacies to poor of Torrington
He leaves directions for a funeral sermon from the text Cor. ii , c. 13, v. u, “Finally, brethren, farewell.”
To son Gyles a charge of i8s. per annum out of the house of Anthony Budd during the life of Francis Budd, as per indenture, &c., of Charles Budd, brother of the aforesaid Anthony and Francis.
To said son ” my signet ring,” &c.
To daughter Agnes Mortymer 100, i.e., $O on marriage, and 50 on the birth of “her living child,” and there is a like legacy to daughter Dorothy Mortymer.
to goddaughter Mary, daughter of Anthony Budd
to Cosen Ann, daughter of Charles Budd and to brother George Mortymer’s daughters.
Mentions “son” “An” Payne and brother “An” Budd.
Exors., wife Agnes and son Gyles ; brother “An” Budd and George Mortymer to be joint exors. in trust.

Seal: a heait, with letters ” W. M.”
Proved 4 Jul, 1674.

 

Will of William Mortymer of Kentisbury, yeoman, 13 Aug 1674.

Legacies to poor of said parish, and to the poor of Great Torrington, Benynarber, Comb Martin, and Parracombe.
To daughter in law Agnes Mortymer, and to Agnes and Dorothy, daughters of son William Mortymer, deceased.
To kinsman Giles Mortymer,
to daughter in law Philippa Budd, and to her six children.
To son in law Francis Budd and to his seven children Winifred, Agnes, Giles, Mary, Wilmot, Ellinor, and Francis Budd.
To Agnes and Elizabeth, daughters of said Giles Mortymer.
To son Thomas Mortymer certain lands in Berrynarber and others in possession of Amias Serrill.
Mentions said son’s daughters, Agnes and Dorothy.
Dorothy, daughter of son George Mortymer, has 100 and right in ” Colley,” testator’s residence.
Mentions Agnes, sister of last mentioned Dorothy, and her mother Wilmott Mortymer.
Residue to son George, sole exor.

Overseers: Francis Budd, and Anthony Budd.
Proved 7 May, 1675.

 

Will of Agnes Mortimer of Great Torrington, widow, 14 Jan 1683/4

Legacies to son Giles Mortimer and his six children;
to daughter in law Philippis Mortimer;
to daughter Anne, wife of Anthony Payne ; and to her five children.
Residue to daughter Dorothy, sole executrix.

Proved 2 Oct 1686.

 

Will of George Mortimore of Exeter 16 Feb 1687/8

Recites a marriage settlement by which a moiety of ” Gibbs,” situate at Witnell in County of Somerset, has been granted to daughter Elizbeth Bowden,
Bequeaths the other moiety to daughter Deborah Mortimore, together with the sum of 190, a silver tankard, and silver porringer.
Bequests to Jonathan, Elizabeth, and Deboiah Bowden, children of said daughter Elizabeth, and to brother Antony Mortimore and his “children.”
To Elizabeth Blackaller, ios..
Residue to said daughters, who are joint exors.

Proved 15 Mar 1687/8

 

Will of George Mortimer of Kentisbury, 10 Oct 1702.

Legacies to poor of said parish, and to those of Comb Martin, Trentisho, and Parracombe.
Tenement in Trentisho to son in law William Knight, after the death of Julian Gubb.
To daughter Dorothy Knight, 10.
Legacies to grandchildren William, Elizabeth, Dorothy, and George Knight ;
granddaughter Agnes Hamond.
Residue to son in law William Knight, sole exor.

Witnesses, John Courtney, William. Herding, Robert Troute.
Proved 22 Jun 1703.

 

Will of Thomas Mortimer of Berrynarber, Yeoman, 21 Aug 1705

To poor of Berrynarber and Comb Martin, 2Os. each.
Legacies to daughter Dorothy and her husband William Lerwill ;
to grandchild Ann, daughter of George Bowden ;
to daughter Wilmot Mortimer.
Mentions ” cosen ” William Knight, ” senr.,” of Kentisbury.
Said Wilmot to have fee simple estate in Berrynarber, with remainder to daughter ” Thamsin Witheridge’s ‘”‘ children.
To son in law John Witheridge, 53.
Legacies to “cosen” William Knight of Kentisbury and to his four children William, George, Elizabeth, and Dorothy Knight.
Residue to son in law George Bowden, sole exor.

Proved 5 Oct 1705.

 

Will of John Mortimore of Torrington, surgeon, 4 Jun 1793

Wife Ursula universal legatee and sole executrix.

Proved 15 Dec 1794.

Bradninch & Silverton


Nuncupative will of Elizabeth Mortimer of Bradridge (Bradninch), widow, 8 Jul 1613.

To the poor of Bradridge and to the reparacion of the Church 11/6.
To God-children 1s. apiece.
Residue to Henry Hille her Son, sole exor.
” Money oweynge to John Hille 303/4.”

Proved Jul, 1613.

 

Will of William Mortimer of Bradninch, 31 Jul 1635

Gives to ” reparacion of parish church, 35. 4d., and to the poor, i os.”
To his kinswoman Grace, wife of Robert Miller,
to Judith Downing’s children,
to Christopher Taylor’s daughter Mary,
to John Garnsey’s son, and to Thomas Wood,* there are small bequests.
To son Thomas Mortimer, the tenement at Bollam in Tiverton.

Residue to wife Johan, sole executrix.
Proved 3 Mar 1636/7

 

Will of Thomas Mortymore of Bradninch, 22 May 1671.

He doubles a bequest of 20s. by father, William Mortymore, in favour of ” my two daughters,”
Elizb., wife of William Maye, and Mary, wife of Thomas Hardinge.
Mentions grandchildren John, Joan, and Richard Hardinge.
Grandchild Thomas Venn, ” a Bible, five wagges (wedges), and a thort saw ” (cross-cut saw).
Residue to grandchildren Thomas, Agnes, and Amos Venn, joint exors.

Trustees: Robert Salter and Thomas Hardinge,
Proved 7 Jun 1671

 

Will of Philemon Mortimore of Silverton, 13 Mar 1772.

Legacies to brother Richard Mortimore and to sister Joan, wife of Thomas Heard.
Legacies to children of said Richard; William, Thomas, John, Betty, and Ann.
Fee simple of houses in Silverton to Mary Purser as long as she remains a widow, with remainder to “nephew Richard Mortimore,” charged with an annuity of 2Os. to Jenny, daughter of deceased brother Henry Mortimore.
Residue to said Mary Purser, sole executrix.

Proved 15 Oct 1779.

 

Admon. of Richard Mortimore of Silverton, 9 Apr 1789

Administration was granted to his widow Susannah Mortimore
Bondsmen: John Reynolds of Pinhoe and William Mortimore.

 

Harpford, Farringdon & Aylesbeare


Will of Thomas Mortimore of Harpford 21 Jan 1663/4

To the poor of Newton Poppleford, 1s. 2Os. to be spent on the funeral.
“To the clarke to toll the bell, 1s 6d.”
” To the bedman for his paynes, 1s.”
To the poor, 1s, and
To wife Ursula certain furniture, and ” that cheare which I brought away from Salterton.”
Bequests to Emmet, wife of Robert Harries of Exeter, and to their daughter Mary.
To Richard and Mary, children of late Richard Mortimore, 2 55. each.
Residue to John, son of late Richard Mortimore, sole exor.

Witnesses: John Saiward (Seaward), Richard Dagworthy, and Jacob Clarke.
Proved 2 May 1671.

 

Admon. of Richard Mortimore, late of Harpford, _ Mar 1685/6

Admon. to his relict Margaret Dagworthy alias ” Mortymer,” now wife of Richard Dagworthy.

Note. The Inventory shows that deceased died 4 Sept., 1658 (twenty-seven years previously), and left personal estate valued at [£109 10s. 6d.]

 

Will of John Mortymore of Farringdon, 15 May 1634.

Legacies to grandchild Abigail Trewant
to Mary, Edward, and Joan Streat
to Mary, daughter of son George Mortymer
to son Robert Mortymer
to daughter Grace Trewant
to son in law, Edward Streat, and Christian, his wife.
Residue to wife, Christian Mortymore, sole executrix.

Witnesses: John Force and Richard Pres f orde.
Proved _ Jun 1634.

 

Will of Robert Mortimore, of Farringdon, 1 Jul 1671.

To son Robert, ” my brewing kieve.”
To daughter Hannah, ” a standard, and one pewter dish.”
To daughter Joan, ” a bedstead and bed, with liberty to come and go until she is married or dead.”
Mentions son Thomas and daughters Alice and Hester.
Gives house and garden to son Henry, resid. legatee and sole exor.

Proved 20 Oct 1671

 

Admon. of Harry Mortimore of Farringdon, 5 Oct 1680

Administration was granted to his widow Joan.

 

Admon. of Richard Mortimore late of Ailsbeare _ Dec 1696

Administration was granted to Mary his wife.

 

Broadclyst


Admon. of John Mortimore of Broadclist, 9 Feb 1708/9

Administration was granted to Agnes his widow. William and Abraham Taylor join the bond.

 

Will of Richard Mortimore of Broadclist, 12 Aug 1726.

Furniture and a legacy of ??? for four years to wife Elizabeth.
To brother John Mortimore 1s.
To William Evans ” my best hatt.”
Residue to daughter Mary, sole executrix, with remainder of a tenement at ” Burriton ” to said wife.

Seal: Circular seal, a stag courant.

Note. These arms are attached to the will of Sampson Mortimore, ante, 2 May, 1712.

 

Admon. of Richard Mortimore of Broadclist, 25 Jun 1736

Administration was granted to Ambrose Bussell, husband of the late Mary Bussell, daughter of deceased.

 

 

Kingsteignton & Ringmore in Shaldon

Nuncupative will of William Mortymer of Bovey Tracy, 29 Aug 1616

Legacies to daughter Joan and to the child now expected by his wife.
Residue to wife Joan, sole executrix.

Proved 9 Nov 1616.

 

Will of Andrew Mortymore of Kingsteignton, Husbandman, 10 Mar 1723/4

To kinsman Samuel Holman’s three children by Mary Lange, his first wife, 1s. each.
To brother in law, John Lange, 1s.
To the two children of John Skeen, deceased, 1s. each.
To Humphry Milton’s two children, 2s. 6d. each, and to his wife Mary, ” half my linen clothes.”
To Richard Prowse’s four children, 2s. 6d. each
to brother William Mortymore, _.
To Mary Colman, widow, _.
Residue to John Mortimore and Joan Redstone, who are joint exors.

Proved _ Jun 1724.

 

Will of John Mortimer the elder of St Nicholas, yeoman, 10 Sept 1763.

To son Joseph and heirs of his body, certain land in Kingsteignton called Fostwell and Heathfield, with remainder to other sons John and William.
To said son John, two leasehold estates at Preston, in Kingsteignton.
To daughter Hannah Drew, \ 1s.
To Elizabeth, daughter of said son Joseph, dwelling-house on the Strand at Ringmoie.
To Elizabeth, daughter of said son William, ,$ at 21.
To sister Joan Codner, .3 35.
A debt of 40 owing by son Joseph is partly bequeathed to grandsons Joseph and John, sons of said Joseph, and partly to John, Ann, Mary, and William Mortimer, children of said son John.
Residue to said son William Mortimer, sole exor.

Witnesses, William and Mary Waye and Richard Langdon.
Proved 22 Aug 1764.

 

Will of Diana Mortimer of Ringmore St Nicholas, widow, 25 May 1792

To brother Nicholas Watts, and brother in law John Mortimore, leasehold dwelling house,
interest to pay the rents to daughters, Diana, wife of John Hugo of Newton, and Mary Mortimer.
To said daughters and to daughter in law Elizabeth Mortimer, six guineas each for mourning.
To sister Elizabeth Fox, 2 2s.
Residue to son William Mortimer, and his heirs.

Witnesses: Henry Bulley, James Crockwell, and Mary Owens.
Proved 10 Apr 1794.

 

Will of Joseph Mortimer of Ringmore St Nicholas, mariner, 14 May 1768

He leaves his house with furniture and stock-in trade, viz., “ships, boats, lighters, and craft” to wife for life, with reversion to daughter Mary, with a moiety of the “clay trade.”
To daughter Charlotte, his share in the new clay house at Hackney in Kingsteignton,
and another third part to daughter Elizabeth.
Remainder of all rights in above, with certain property in Kingsteignton, to son Joseph, and his heirs for ever.
Residue to said wife, Elizabeth Mortimer, sole exor.

Proved 24 Jun 1779.

Note. Testator’s daughter Charlotte married William Branscombe of Newton Abbot, and her daughter, Charlotte Branscombe, was the wife of Edward Granville. (Refer to Note, p. 285, and to p. 229 for the Branch. Son Hugh Mortimer is there misprinted “Sir.”)

Testator died at Ringmore (Shaldon), 7 March 1777

 

Will of John Mortimer of Ringmore, in Stokeintinhead.

Having already provided for them, he now leaves son in law William Langley, daughter Ann Langley, and eldest son John Mortimer, one guinea each.
Mentions daughter Catherine and granddaughter Mary Langley.
Residue to wife Ann, sole executrix.

Proved Jul, 1797.

 

Totnes


Will of John Mortimer of Totnes, Inventory exhibited 10 Sep 1603.

Extracts :
“Item owing from Roger Mortimer … … 405.
“OneCloke 3.
” Doublett 5s.
” pair of hose 5s.
“Two hatts and hatt bands 20s.
“One rapier and ponyarde 6s. 8d.
“A girdle and paire of hangers 2s.
“A paire of busgyns 2s.
” Item in Allin Bartlett’s hands, one golde ringe of three gymmes _.
“Item, five yardes of stripe stuff 12s.”

Note. ” Busgyns.” From the reign of Henry V., Buskins, or shore boots, called by the French bottines, may be traced. In the seventeenth century these wide-topped boots were generally used for riding, and they usually had a very curious clog or false sole, and were excessively high heeled, and must have been most uncomfortable for pedestrian purposes.

 

Stokenham & Slapton


Will of Joane Mortymore of Stokingham, 1605

Legacy to the poor of the parish.
To daughter Ebbot, wife of Robert Mortemor 10.
To Mychell, Thomas, and Elizabeth, children of John Mortymore, small legacies
To Julian Mortymore, ” my great longe leged crocke, & my great pan.”
Similar bequests of goods, &c., to Wilmot and Christian Mortymore, to Joan Stisson, to Elizabeth, daughter of John Hawkins, to William Knight, and William Pascovv.
Residue to son Robert Mortymore, sole exor.

Proved 7 Feb 1605.

 

Nuncupative will of Joan Mortymore of Stokingham, 16 May 1633

To the poor of the parish, 1s. Bequests to Robert and Helene, children of Elizabeth Hingston ;
to Elizabeth, daughter of John Hingston;
to kinsman Thomas Mortymore and to his children John and Joan ;
to John and Elizabeth, children of Nicholas Colle ;
to kinsman John Gould ;
to Ebbott, wife of Nicholas Garland ;
to the three children of Edward Milton ;
to William, Marie, Nicholas, and Agnes, children of Christopher Jilleard
to goddaughter Margery Edwards
to Rachell and Robert, children of Wilmot Eweine ;
and to daughter Julian Mortymore.

Residue to daughter Wilmot Eweine, sole executrix.

Proved 8 Jun 1633.

 

Will of Julian Mortymer of Stokingham, maiden, 1 Apr 1635

Bequests to Marianne, Mary, Nicholas, and Robert ” Gillord ”
to Robert and Rachell ” Ewen ”
to William Cook, John Lowe, Robert and John Gould.
Residue to sister Wilmot ” Ewen,” who is sole executrix.

Proved 22 Jan 1635/6.

 

Admon. of Michael Mortimer of Stokingham, 21 Jul 1646

Administration was granted to Joanna Mortimer of the same parish, Widow.
Hercules Giles joins the bond.

 

Admon. of Thomas Mortimore of Slapton, Jan 1696/7

Administration was granted to Rebecca Mortimore his sister.

 

Will of Thomas Mortimore of Plymouth, 13 Apr 1760

He leaves all his houses in Plymouth, situate in Lower Lane and elsewhere, to sister in law Judith Mortimer and her heirs for ever.
Residue to said Judith, sole executrix.

Proved 9 Jun 1760.

 

Other Mortimer wills


Admon. of John Mortimer of Inwardleigh, 13 Mar 1605/6

Administration was granted to his widow Margery.

 

Will of John Mortimore of Cadbury, 15 Jun 1734.

He leaves 53. each to his wife Susanna and his daughter Elizabeth.
Residue to his mother Joan Mortimore, sole Executrix.

Proved 27 Jun 1735.

 

Will of John Mortimore of Halberton, 30 Nov 1786.

He leaves John Chave, Esq., of said parish, 30 in trust for daughter Mary, wife of Robert Seaman of Willand.
To daughter Jane, wife of John Templeman, Langford Budville, Somerset, 20.
To daughter Elizabeth, wife of William Webber of Milverton, Somerset, 20, Langford Budville).
To daughters Sarah 20, and Susannah and Ann Mortimore 60 each.
To Daughter Dinah Mortimore 150, and daughter Joan Mortimore $o.
To said Trustee the estate known as ” Burruges,” otherwise “Joans,” in Bradninch, for use of son John Mortimore at 21.
To grandsons John and Thomas Seaman 5 each at 21.
Residue to wife Hannah, sole executrix.

Proved 9 Feb, 1787

 

Mortimer Wills Part 2: Cornwall


Cornwall

4th May 1575
The last will of John Mortemere of “Brydgend” in the parish of St Wynnowe & Co. of Cornwall, yeoman.
He leaves to the poor-mens box there one sheep.
To his eldest son John “one table board, the best I have” & six silver spoons, & half my estates during the life of Johan my wife”
As to my other two sons, Nicholas & Richard, I refer it to the discretion of my wife” who is sole executrix.
To the two sons of my said son John, Thomas & John, “a yew sheep each”
To the said Thomas “one little salt of silver”
Residue to his said wife
Witnesses. Edward Battyn, curate of Lostwithiel “with others”.
Proved 30 May 1576
Sum £32 1s. 1d.


28 Jun 1625
The nuncupative will of Phillip Mortimer (St Breock?)
He leaves to Henry Cole, one suit of wearing apparel, Residue to Ann his daughter who is sole executrix.
Witnesses. Robert Moore, Humfry Rycard
Proved 29 Aug 1625
Sum £18 16s. 8d.


Mortimer alias Tanner family

Mortimer alias Tanner

George Mortimer alias Tanner of Pillaven, Witheridge, yeoman, nunc. will, 18 May 1601

His effects to be sold and debts paid, and the surplus over and above to be given to his “daughter” Margaret.
His sons, Lewis and Methuselah, joint exors.

Proved 28 May 1601


Margaret Mortimer alias Tanner of Witheridge, Spinster, nunc. will 2p Mar 1608.

Leaves her money to sisters Susan and Anne Mortimer alias Tanner, and to sister Frances Harwood.
Residue to brother Lewis, sole exor.

Proved 4 Apr 1608


William Mortimore alias Tanner of Fremington, 1614.

Legacies to the poor and to sons William, Matthew, and James Tanner.
To daughter Ellynor six silver spoons.
Residue to wife Ellynor, sole executrix.

Trustees: William Farechilde and Robert Hill.
Witnesses: Robert Hill and Thomas Pamer (Palmer?).
Proved I2 Sept., 1615.


Elinor Mortimore alias Tanner of Fremington, Widow, 1635

She desires to be buried in the parish churchyard, just by the chancel door, near to the “sepulchre” of husband William Mortimore alias Tanner, and leaves IDS. to the poor of the parish.
Mentions sons Matthew and Henry Mortimore alias Tanner,
and daughter Elinor Friend
also son Tymothy Hatherley
and daughter Eylin Hanver.
Residue to said daughter Elinor Friend, sole executrix.

Witnesses William Blanchard, minister ; John Barwicke.
Proved 3Oth Aug 1637.


John Mortimer alias Tanner, of Cadleigh, 13 May 1625.

To be buried in parish church.
To sister Elizabeth Sharland, 40s.
Bequests to Ralph Tanner, John Berry, Sander Norrish, Gecrge Norrish, both of Cheriton, Thomasine Ellat of Poughill, Joan Pathericke, Agnes, Symon, Robert, John and Alice Berrie, of Tiverton, Eleanor and Katherine Passmore, Thomas Beedell,
“to the useable workmen of Sir Symon Leache’s house,” Joan Clokye, Bridget and Mary Norrish, Christian Aisse (Ash), John Langworthy, and John Matthew.
To Richard Aisse of Cadleigh, 2 &1/4 yards of ” Meltie Cloth.”
Residue to William Matthew, sole exor.

Proved 19 May 1626.

[Sum £58 10s.]

Robert Tanner, alias Mortimere, of Cruwys Morchard, Yeoman, yth Nov 1672.

To the poor of Cruse Morchard, 2os.
Legacies to Jesse Parker, to Sarah and her sister Jane Tanner als Mortimer of Crecombe, to Agnes Kelland, the elder, to John Handford’s wife.
To Robert Tanner of Crecombe, and to Jane Shapcot, a silver spoon each
To Grace Agnes (the younger), Mary and Jone Kelland, 20s. each.
To Alice Webber, servant to John Bradford, the elder, of Poughill
To John Bradford, the younger, “one silver beare bowle.”
To John Tanner, alias Mortimere, of Cruse Morchard, 20.
Residue to servant Alice Thomas, sole executrix.

The gift of a silver spoon to Jane Shapcote is revoked by Codicil dated 5 Jan 1672/3.

Witnesses: John Melhuish and John Bradford
No act of Proof. Inventory exhibited 7 Feb, 1672.


Nicholas Mortymer of Winkleigh 2 Dec 1611.

To the poor of the parish 2s.
to Charethie Mortymer “my beste bande and my best stockins
to Elizabeth Hatherleigh my second beste dublett and jerkyn, my best wastcoatt, and one canvas shirt
to Samuel Crocker my second best jerkyn ;
to Barnard Reed my greene breeches
to Johane Joanes my best shoes ; to Johane Bynford my blue stockins
to Samuel Crocker my new canvas shirt
to Joha(n) Hatherleigh my best halt”
Residue to Master Andrew Beare, sole exor.

Proved _ Dec 1613.

The Mortimers of Uplowman

The Mortimers of Uplowman

Origins

The descent of the Mortimers of Hemyock can be traced with confidence back to Hugh Mortimer of Uplowman (c.1600-1685), but before this, the picture is unclear.

The family may trace back to Bow aka Nymet Tracey. Edmund Mortimer was recorded in Bow in the 1543 lay subsidy, assessed on good worth £3. He was presumably the son of William Mortimer of Bow, fl.1524. This was perhaps the same Edmund who moved to Halberton. He married Joan, and both were possibly mentioned in the will of Nicholas Mortimer of Sandford, who gave a bequest to Edward and Joan Mortimer. The names Edward and Edmund might have been seen as interchangeable during the the time period. In 1558, Edmund made his will, dividing his goods between his wife Joan, and children James, William, Mary and Margaret, who were all under the age of sixteen. James was possibly the older son, supporting a link with James Mortimer of Sandford. Though William’s son attained his majority and lived in Halberton, he died in 1588, leaving a will that was listed in the catalogue. It is not clear whether he had issue. It is possible his brother James predeceased him, as he did not feature in 1581 lay subsidy either in Halberton or elsewhere. In the 1570s or later, William, a younger son of John Mortimer of Priorton (c.1518-1559), moved from Sandford to Tiverton. He was perhaps apprenticed there in his early teens, as was the norm with yeoman families. He married Elizabeth, and they had several children including daughters Julian, Mary and a son Edward, who was probably born between 1585-1591. William’s “children”, unnamed, were mentioned in the will of his brother John Mortimer of Priorton in 1605. William’s wife Elizabeth died in 1602, and was buried in Tiverton. Following the death of his brother John, William moved back to Sandford, taking possession of the farm at Priorton before moving to Blackmanscombe. His son, Edward, died in 1612, Uplowman, but was buried in Tiverton, perhaps as he desired to be laid to rest near his mother. It seems likely from the above connections that William Mortimer also had a younger son, Hugh who went on to live at Uplowman. 

Hugh Mortimer (c.1601-1685) of Uplowman

Though it has been previously considered that Hugh was a son of Edward Mortimer of Uplowman d.1612 (le. will, Devon wills catalogue), Edward’s burial at Tiverton in 1612, stated he was a son of William, meaning that Edward’s father was still alive in 1612, and that Edward was probably unmarried. Hugh might instead have been a brother of Edward, both being sons of William Mortimer of Tiverton, then Sandford. Hugh lived in Uplowman before 1626, at which point he married Joan Pring, 8 Feb 1625/6 at Halberton. Hugh and Joan had at least three children. In 1655, he witnessed the marriage of his son Hugh Mortimer to Christian Oatway in Tiverton. He died in 1685 Uplowman, and was obviously of an advanced age by this point. 

  1. Catherine b. Apr 1626
  2. James Mortimer of Uplowman 
  3. Hugh Mortimer II (c.1633-1702), who was probably b. in the early 1630s. He married Christian Oatway (1633-1687), 7 May 1655 Tiverton, in the marriage record it states Hugh son of Hugh Mortimer of Uplowman and servant of Michael Osmond of Tiverton, married Christian, daughter of Joan Oatway, widow, of Tiverton, by banns. Witnesses were Hugh Mortimer (the father) and Henry King. Hugh Mortimer II was a contemporary of another Hugh Mortimer of Tiverton, hotpresser, (c.1648-1688), who was son of Humphrey Mortimer of Exeter. Hugh was bur. 17 Feb 1701/2 Tiverton, Hugh Mortimer and Christian had the following children. Hugh senior afterwards married Edith Chilcott, (1641-1707). 

i. George 1656-1660
ii. Joan 1658-1664
iii. James Mortimer, of Tiverton 1661-1713, who married and had daughters in Tiverton: Christian 1687 and Rebecca 1689-1690
iv. Humphrey Mortimer 1663
v. Mary 1665
vi. Elizabeth 1666-1668
vii. Hugh Mortimer III 1669-1724, who married Ann Henley (1670-1730), 6 Dec 1695 Tiverton. They had an only daughter Ann, 1701-1711. Hugh III died and was bur. 15 Feb 1723/4 Tiverton. 
viii. John Mortimer 1671-1691, who was bur. 13 Dec 1691 Tiverton. 
ix. Agnes 1674

James Mortimer (c.1631-1715) of Uplowman

James was presumably the elder son of Hugh Mortimer of Uplowman, as he stayed in Uplowman as a farmer, while Hugh moved to Tiverton, presumably as an apprentice. He married firstly Susanna Courtenay (c.1641-1679), 28 Oct 1663, who was presumably distantly descended from the Courtenays of Tiverton. She was bur. in 1679 Uplowman. He married secondly, 29 Sep 1679, Thamsin Quaint, (1640-1690). By his first wife they had children: 

  1. James 1663-1664
  2. James Mortimer II 1665-1715
  3. John Mortimer 
  4. Hugh 1668-1675
  5. Elizabeth? c.1670, whose baptism record is missing, but was presumably related to the family. 
  6. Susanna 1673
  7. Joan 1675

John Mortimer of Uplowman (1667-1729)

John was presumably the eldest surviving son of James Mortimer, and inherited the farm at Uplowman. He married Joan Waddams, 2 Jul 1688 Silverton, but was unrelated to the other Mortimers of Silverton. They had the following children: 

  1. Richard Mortimer 1688-1713
  2. Susan 1690-1714, presumably named after her grandmother Susanna nee Courtenay. 
  3. Joan? c.1691, whose bapt. record is missing. 
  4. Mary 1694
  5. James Mortimer, of Branscombe (1697-1791), married Ann Caswell 20 Apr 1731 Branscombe. His burial record is detailed, and is worth copying out in full: James Mortimer, a husbandman, aged 97, son of John & Joan Mortimer of Uplowman, was bur. His age is remarkably accurate given he was nearly a century old. It was not unknown for people to exaggerate their ages slightly as they got older. 
  6. John Mortimer 1700-1732, who married Thomasin, and had a son Richard 1729-1730, who died in infancy. Both were bur. in Uplowman. 
  7. Hugh Mortimer
  8. Joan 1707
Hugh Mortimer of Hemyock (1702- )

Hugh was bapt. 17 Jul 1702, Hemyock. He married Grace Daley, 12 Jun 1737 Tiverton. They had twin sons, both baptised 6 Mar 1737/8 Hemyock: 

  1. Hugh Mortimer of Hemyock II 1738-1818, who married Mary Holway, and had two children: 

i. Mary 1768, married Robert Drake

ii. James Mortimer (1774-c.1820) of Sampford Peverell (the residence of Katherine Mortimer c.1544/51). He was bapt. 29 May 1774 Hemyock, and married Jane Osbourne (1771-1847), 16 Feb 1800 Churchstanton, Devon/ Somerset. His burial record is missing, and he presumably died between 1804-1841. James and Jane had the following children: 

      1. John Mortimer (1800-1867) of Churchstanton, farmer.
      2. Hugh Mortimer 1802-1845
      3. James Mortimer II 1804-1883

2. John Mortimer of Hemyock 1738-1831, who married Jane (1739-1831), and had two children: 

i. Betty 1771

ii. Hugh Mortimer 1773-1852, who was bapt. 3 Dec 1773 Hemyock, and named after both his grandfather and uncle. He married Ann Carter 24 Apr 1810 Hemyock. In 1851 he was a farmer of 70 acres employing 3 labourers. He made a will dated 1852 and died that year. A copy of his will survives in the Inland revenue wills collection. 

Explore the genealogies of other related Mortimer families: 

 

 

 

 

 

The Mortimers of Sandford (Part 1)

The Mortimers of Sandford (Part 1)

Origins in Sandford

The Mortimers had lived in Sandford since at least the late 15th century. James Mortimer was the first known member of the family, and was perhaps a son of John Mortimer of Woolfardisworthy. James was born about 1490, as he seems to have married by about the 1510s when his daughter Thomasin was born. He also fathered a son John, who was perhaps named after James’ father. Around this time, James’ mother Alice died, leaving a will and bequests of plate and other goods to her granddaughter Thomasin upon reaching majority or her marriage. James Mortimer was the executor and perhaps the eldest surviving son, acting as a trustee for Thomasin in her minority.

Between 1515-18, John Guy brought suit against James Mortimer in Chancery for detention of deeds relating to land near Crediton. John Guy was a prosperous yeoman from Kingsbridge who married Mary the daughter of Thomas Prowse Esq., a local landowner. Through this marriage, the Guys gained property in Sandford and enhanced their regional connections. The Mortimers also intermarried with the Guys in later generations, so it is possible the two families were already connected before John Guy moved from Kingsbridge to Sandford around the year 1515.

James Mortimer prospered through farming and the burgeoning wool trade, which by the early 1500s had started to recover from a low ebb in the mid 15th century. Many yeomen in the Crediton area were starting to exploit opportunities in the wool trade, by producing serge or unfinished cloth, which would then be sent to Exeter for export. By 1524, James had become relatively wealthy with a yearly income of £20, making him the richest Mortimer in Devon.

James’ daughter Thomasin married Richard Hawkridge, to whom her father made an agreement of payment in a marriage settlement. Sometime between the years 1533-38, James had yet to make the payment, so Richard sued James in the Court of Chancery. Whilst the Mortimers were hardly unfamiliar with family lawsuits, further research is required to determine the outcome of this case. It seems likely the two sides managed to reach agreement.

Mortimers of Priorton

The 1530s were a time of great constitutional change in England. The Church of England was founded in 1531, and Henry VIII broke with the Roman Catholic Church in the 1534, making himself Supreme Head of the Church. This effectively made England a pariah state. In order to provide income for the wars in which England was embroiled, the suppression of monasteries and religious houses began soon afterwards. The first Act of Suppression in 1535 dissolved the lesser monasteries, intending to act as a cash flow for the nation’s coffers. The 1539 Act of Supremacy dissolved the larger religious houses untouched by the first act. This was one of the most revolutionary events in English history and would shake the very foundations of the state, with far reaching repercussions affecting the whole country. In Devon, the monasteries and priories were the largest landowners, and when their lands were sold, there was a huge rush to acquire land. Many people with existing means were able to quickly climb the social ladder.

While it’s not certain which side of the political and religious divide the Mortimers sympathised with, the majority of the West Country was largely supportive of Protestant reform. It is also clear that some members of the Mortimer family directly benefited from the changes. Plympton priory was a particularly large landowner in Devon, and one of their holdings was Priorton Barton in Sandford, where ancient farm buildings and a later farm house still exist. The name of Priorton itself suggests a connection to the priory. Unfortunately no illustrations of Plympton priory survive. Priorton Barton was a neighbouring farm of the Guy’s farms of Prowse and Dodderidge. Upon dissolution, Plympton priory was dismantled for building materials and all the priory’s land sold off. Most of the land was acquired by wealthy gentleman, including the Guy family. Anthony Harvey bought Priorton manor but then leased the land to the Mortimers. Around the 1550s, either James or John Mortimer acquired the leasehold of Priorton.

James Mortimer died in 1558, naming his son John as his heir, his wife appears to have predeceased him. He gave a small bequest to John Hokeridge (Hawkridge), who was presumably a grandson and godson. He gave half the residue of his flock of sheep to godson John Mortimer, presumably also a grandson. He appointed his neighbour Robert Guy, gent., a trustee and the will was witnessed by Thomas Mortimer (d.1581).

John Mortimer senior held Priorton, Sandford, and died the following year, though unfortunately his will doesn’t survive. His son was John Mortimer, yeoman, of Priorton, d.1605, who married Wilmot but had no surviving issue. In his will he left various bequests to his household servants, including James Mortimer, who was presumably over the age of 21. John also mentioned brothers William Mortimer and Nicholas Mortimer, with sisters Alice and Joan, both married to yeomen. He also named a nephew, Hugh son of William Mortimer, who was perhaps the Hugh who died in 1627 without surviving issue. John’s brother, William, lived at Priorton Barton after 1605.

Mortimer family tree in Sandford

The parish of Crediton in mid-Devon was home to the Mortimer family in the early 16th century. This raises the suggestion that the family could perhaps trace its origin in Devon nearby.

Several of these Mortimers resided in Sandford, a chapelry of Crediton, but which later became a separate parish with its own register (which sadly only dates back to within a few years of 1600. Despite this late register, the general relationships of the family can perhaps be estimated with reference to other records, including the Devon lay subsidy rolls and various extracts which were made of Mortimer wills, before these wills were destroyed in the Exeter Blitz.

The first member of the Mortimer family in Devon was perhaps named John, guessing from the popularity of the name in subsequent generations. Various sporadic references to both “John Mortymer” and “Robert Mortymer” were made in a nearby manor court roll in the preceding century, which may relate to the preceding generations following a conventional naming pattern. The pedigree here begins theoretically, with a John Mortimer, who married Alice, and who may be the same as John Mortimer of Woolfardisworthy/ Wolsworthy, but further research is required to determine the facts. An absence of any available evidence may mean having to resort to educated guesswork to fill in the blanks for the earlier generations.

John Mortimer (c.1466-c.1510)

The ancestor of the successive Mortimer generations was presumably John Mortimer, who may have been born nearby. He married Alice and they had a son, James Mortimer d.1558. His wife Alice died after the birth of her granddaughter Thomasin daughter of James. Alice presumably outlived her husband, as she left goods to her granddaughter Thomasin, presumably in her will. This insight is recorded in a document from the 1530s. She certainly died and left a will before 1533.

In the 1524 Devon lay subsidy, several Mortimers were listed in Crediton. At this time, Sandford was a chapelry and part of the parish of Crediton. Since all of the Mortimers living in the parish at that time had different names and similar birth dates, it seems reasonable to assume they were siblings of James. If the individuals listed were of different generations, we may expect to see a repetition of names, as can be observed in the 1642 Protestation Oath roll. The John Mortimer and Richard Mortimer who lived in Bradninch in 1524 perhaps represented a separate branch, despite the fact both these names are missing from Sandford/ Crediton in 1524.

Alice Mortimer was not listed in 1524; she had perhaps died or remarried. A Joan Mortimer was living in Sandford in 1524, presumably a widow. Her husband’s name will probably remain uncertain unless further documentation comes to light.

John and Alice Mortimer may have had the following children:

1. John Mortimer of Rewe (c.1490-aft.1526), recorded at Rewe near Exeter in the 1524 Lay Subsidy, with a value assessed at £18 in goods, only slightly lower than James Mortimer. He may have been the John Mortimer, Merchant of the Staple in Exeter, recorded in 1526. It is unknown if he had issue.

2. James Mortimer of Sandford (c.1491-1558), was the most prosperous member of the family, as can be seen from the lay subsidy. As such, he would have been a yeoman farmer and perhaps represented the most senior line of the family. The lay subsidy shows James Mortimer had goods assessed at a value of £20 in 1524, which was significantly higher than many other Mortimers nearby.

James is unexpectedly absent from the 1543 subsidy, but assuming James Mortimer who died in 1558 is the same individual as in the 1533/38 court case, he should be present. The entry for Thomas Mortimer, with income of £20, exactly matches James Mortimer’s entry in 1524, and could be a scribal error for James. Otherwise, the entry is particularly curious. There is an additional entry for Thomas Mortimer in 1543 with income of £4, who was presumably the same Thomas Mortimer to witness James Mortimer’s will in 1558, and who died leaving a will in 1581.

James Mortimer was already old enough to be a grandparent in the 1530s. It is possible to construct the pedigree by suggesting two successive generations of James Mortimers, but in the absence of evidence, the different records for James Mortimer presumably represent the same person. James was possibly related in some way to the Guy family, as there was a legal case between James and John Guy in 1515/18 but he appointed Robert Guy as a trustee in his will. Nicholas Mortimer owed him a debt of 40s. in 1556. James Mortimer made a will dated 19 Oct 1558, as related in the following extract:

Will of James Mortymer

To be buried in parish church, and leaves to the maintenance thereof two sheep.
He disperses the residue of his flock between his “godchildren ” John Mortymer the younger and Ebbot Rowe.
To John Hokeridge, £3 6s. 8d.
To Nicholas Tree, 33s. 4d.
Residue to son John Mortymer, “he to dispose of part of my goods for the wealth of my soul, and the rest for the preservation of his bodye.”

Trustee: Robert Gye, “gent.”
Witnesses, Sir Thomas Lobone, clerk, and Thomas Mortymer.
Proved 15 Nov 1558.

1. Thomasin c.1513, was given a bequest in her grandmother Alice Mortimer’s will. She married Richard Hawkridge before 1533/38, and had a son, John Hawkridge fl.1558, mentioned in James Mortimer’s will.

2. John Mortimer, perhaps the same John Mortimer of Priorton (c.1519-1559).

3. _ Mortimer c.1493-c.1520?

From sporadic records of the preceding generations, we may expect John and Alice to have a son named either John or Robert, and there is documented reference to a John Mortimer of Woolfardisworthy, whose son Robert was married before c.1505 to Joan. This may have been the same mystery family member who was the husband of Joan Mortimer (widow), living in 1524. If this was Robert Mortimer, it would indeed match up, but the evidence is perhaps not compelling enough to connect the families definitively, especially given the presence of another Joan Mortimer, widow, listed in 1524 in the parish of Stockleigh English.

i. Thomas Mortimer (c.1520-1581); was listed in the 1543 lay subsidy with goods assessed at £4, the same as Joan Mortimer, widow in 1524. He witnessed the will of James Mortimer in 1558, and was presumably the same Thomas Mortimer who died in 1581, who left a will as follows:

The last will of Thomas Mortimer “well disposed & god.wende”
He devizes to be buried in the Church-yard of Sandford” betweene the Chancell door & the palme crosse & to have a limbe upon my burial & a broad stone upon it”.
He leaves to the maintenance of Sandford Church 12d.
To each “of the poor of Sandford Town, two seams of wool & to the poor of Bridge (Credy?) a seame apeece”.
To each of his five servants 20s. each.
To Joan wife of John Milford 6s. 8d.
To John Maunder’s children 3s. 4d. each
The same to John Robert’s children
Residue to John Maunder “my son in law” & Mary wife of John Roberts “my daughter”, who are joint exors.
Witnesses. Thos Hutchings, Thos Moxage
Proved 3 Jun 1581
Sum £88 18s.

5. William Mortimer (c.1494-c.1550) was recorded in Crediton in 1524, assessed on £6 in goods and 1543 at the same amount. He was a contemporary of William Mortimer of Bow (c.1496-c.1533). If William Mortimer had a son named John Mortimer c.1522-c.1555), it seems likely that William’s father was called John. William was present in the 1543 lay subsidy, but had perhaps died before both James and Nicholas Mortimer, for he is not mentioned and did not act as a witness to either will.

i. John? Mortimer c.1528-c.1560?, may have been the mystery ancestor of the Mortimer family of Ranscombe in Sandford.

4. Nicholas Mortimer of Sandford (c.1497-1556), was presumably a brother of James Mortimer d. 1558. He was listed in Crediton in 1524, with goods assessed for £4, and in 1543, assessed for £2. Nicholas Mortimer made a will dated 12 Dec 1556 with an abstract as follows:

Will of Nicholas Mortymer

Bequeaths his ” soul to Almighty God and our Lady the Virgin, and to all the Holy Company of Heaven.”,
To the ” High Cross,” 20d.,
To son John, six silver spoons,
To son Davye Mortymere, a littill crocke, and a four gallon panne, and three silver spoons
To daughter Agnes, a white panne of five gallons,
To Margaret Parkhouse, a five gallon panne,
To Edward Mortymere, a two gallon panne,
To Joane Mortymere, a gallon panne,
Residue to wife Joan, sole executrix.

Debts owed: To Christey Hop, 12s, to James Mortymer, 40s.
Witnesses: Sir William Tristamb, John Vilvayne, James Mortymore.
Proved 19 Feb 1556/7.

Note that his first three beneficiaries are his children, and Margaret Parkhouse, Edward and Joan Mortimer may also have been his children. John was presumably the eldest:

i. John Mortimer – may have married Agnes Mortimer whose will follows:

Will of Agnes Mortimer of Sandford, 27 May 1569

She devises to be buried in Sandford Church, and leaves to the poor there 2s.
To my servant “my best round gown”, two kerchiefs & pletter
To “my son in law” John Dier 43s. 4d. “which he owes me” and a brazen pot etc.
To Elizabeth Dier 3s. 4d.
To John & Richard, children of John Dier, 3s. 4d.- half a dozen sheep & a “Chandeler” apeece
To “my daughter Alice Kelond” “my best new panne” etc.
Also a cow “now in John Richards hands at Morchard”
Residue to my son John Mortimer, who is sole exor.
Two trustees. Jno Dier & Jno Osborne,
Witnesses. Jno Delfe, Jno Osborne, “with others”
There are several legacies to servants. 

Proved 4th May 1571
Sum £3 17s 8d.

Agnes and her husband had the following children:

1. John Mortimer, perhaps the same as John Mortimer of Ashridge (c.1542-1609).

2. A daughter, married John Dier.

3. Alice (c.1545- ), married a Mr Kelond.

ii. Edward Mortimer (c.1523- )

iii. Davy Mortimer (c.1525- )

1. John Mortimer (c.1552- ), m. Margery Webber 8 Feb 1574/5 Tiverton. Perhaps died 1618 Tiverton, admon. granted to Silvester Parkhouse (son of William Parkhouse of Knowstone c.1555-1594 and Margaret his wife c.1556-1598). Perhaps John d.1618 was their son and Margery remarried to William Parkhouse.

2. Mary (c.1556- ), m. Robert Beddle 11 Apr 1577 Tiverton.

3. William Mortimer of Tiverton (c.1560-c.1615), m. Elizabeth bur. 29 Dec 1602. Had at least one son:

i. Edward Mortimer (c.1600-1612), bur. 7 May 1612. [It is noted that a will of Edward Mortimer of Uplowman dated 1612 existed but no extract survives]

4. Agnes (c.1561-1589)m. Thomas Dunn, 14 Jul 1582 Tiverton, bur. 30 Jul 1589 Tiverton.

5. Robert Mortimer of Cove (c.1566-1592), bur. 27 May 1592 Tiverton. He may instead have been a son of John Mortimer of Priorton, as Nicholas son of John also resided in Tiverton.

6. Joan m. Richard Dunn, Jan 1593/4 Tiverton. She was probably born c.1570, as her youngest child Tamsin was born in 1610. She died in 1644, Tiverton. Potentially the widow of Robert Mortimer d.1592.

iv. Margaret? (c.1530- ) m. _ Parkhouse.

v. Agnes (c.1535- ), fl.1556.

5. Roger Mortimer of Crediton (c.1500-c.1550) was recorded in the 1524 and 1543 Lay Subsidies, and assessed at £1 in Wages and £1 in Goods respectively. Perhaps the father of Walter Mortimer, assessed at £1 in 1543. It would not be a surprise if he also had a son John. [It is noted that there was a John Mortimer of Witheridge and John of Thorverton, both assessed for £1 in 1543. Walter may have been the mystery ancestor of the Mortimer family of Crediton.

Mortimer farmsteads

The Mortimers lived at several farms over the centuries, presumably holding the leasehold. These included Priorton, Blackmorescombe, Ashridge, Ranscombe (New Buildings), Lithybrook (Lillybrook) and Dogbeare (Doggetsbeare). Farmhouses still exist on these sites, but Lillybrook is the only one to show signs of antiquity. In some cases it is possible to follow the different Mortimer families based on where exactly they lived. Here we follow the different Mortimer family lines within Sandford:

John Mortimer (c.1519-1559) of Priorton

John was born around the mid to late 1510s, presumably the son of James Mortimer (c.1491-1558). John Mortimer was listed in Sandford in 1543, with goods assessed at £4. Either John or James Mortimer acquired Priorton Barton manor after the dissolution, which was formerly owned by Plympton Priory. In 1558, he executed his father’s will, and Thomas Mortimer was a witness. He died the following year while residing at Priorton, his will unfortunately does not survive. He married Maud, with whom he had the following children, and Maud remarried after his death to Gilbert Philip, yeoman, who was listed in the 1581 lay subsidy in Sandford.

1. John Mortimer (c.1548-1605), perhaps the same John Mortimer mentioned as a godson in the will of James Mortimer. When he reached full age, he sued his step father Gilbert Philip for failing to deliver property to him that was his birth right. John married Wilmot before 1592. John Mortimer and Wilmot his wife were also mentioned in a marriage settlement dated 15 May 1595. Around 1600, John became a godparent to John son of Roger Mortimer, yeo., who died in 1614, Crediton. John of Priorton left a will dated 1 Feb 1604/5, mentioning his capital messuage of Priorton, and his wife Wilmot. A full transcription of the will can be read here. He also gave various bequests and legacies to his family members. The will mentions his brother William Mortimer, who had a daughter Julian and other minor children, and his brother Nicholas who had a daughter Bridget and son Hugh. John’s widow Wilmot may have been bur. 1 May 1610, Sandford.

2. Alice Mortimer c. 1550, was mentioned as sister Alice Gifford in the will of John Mortimer d. 1605. She perhaps married William Gifford of Crediton. Amy daughter of William Gifford was born in 1593, Crediton but died in infancy.

3. Joan Mortimer c. 1552, who perhaps married John Fugars d. 1583. She was mentioned as sister Joan Fugars in the will of John Mortimer d. 1605. The Fugars family later lived in Poughill.

4. William Mortimer (c.1553-1625), who appears to have lived in Sandford. He was perhaps the William Mortimer with income assessed at £1 in Land, in the 1581 Lay subsidy, unless this was William Mortimer of North Creedy d. 1604. He presumably married in the 1580s, as both his children mentioned in his brother John’s will in 1605 were under age 21. In Feb 1605, he was mentioned in his brother’s will and had a daughter Julian, along with other children still in their minority. References to William survive in Sandford parish register: John Ware, his servant, was buried 28 Dec 1605, and Thomas Brodford, servant of William Mortimer of Priorton was buried 4 Jun 1606. He was perhaps the William Mortimer of Blackmanscombe named in a counterpart of lease in 1619, which also recorded his daughter, Mary. In 1624, Hugh, manservant of farmer Mortimer was buried, which record perhaps referred to the same William Mortimer. William Mortimer of Blackmanscombe, was buried 5 Apr 1625.

William Mortimer of Sandford had the following children:

i. Julian c. 1590, was the eldest daughter, mentioned in the will of John Mortimer of Priorton in 1605, and m. Edward Barlabin 7 Dec 1618 Sandford.

ii. Joan? c.1592-1643, may fit here: m.1. Roger Clash (1588-1623), 22 Jun 1612 Sandford; m.2. Leonard Tricker (c.1599-c.1650), 28 Jan 1631/2 and bur. 31 Aug 1643, Sandford.

iii. Zippora? c.1594-1665(?), m. Thomas Spicer (c.1590-1643), 25 Sep 1615 Sandford, and bur. 21 Jun 1665, Sandford.

iv. Naomi? c.1596- m. James Labdon (c.1597-1652) 10 Aug 1618 Sandford, bur. 4 Apr 1637, Sandford.

v. Mary? c. 1598-aft. 1619, daughter of William Mortimer of Blackmanscombe, was mentioned in the lease record dated 1619.

vi. Elizabeth c.1601-1603, bur. 20 Sep 1603 Sandford.

vii. John 1603-1603, bur. 17 Sep 1603 Sandford.

5. Roger Mortimer of Crediton (c.1555-1614), was the brother of John Mortimer of Priorton, but not mentioned in his will. His son John was John Mortimer’s godson. Roger Mortimer witnessed a land grant in Crediton, 24 Apr 1599. He married Joan, and they had issue, three sons and a daughter. Roger Mortimer of Crediton, yeoman, made his will 24 Oct 1613, at Crediton, which mentioned his late brother John Mortimer and stepfather Gilbert Philip:

He leaves to his wife Joanna £5 13s. 4d., the first year after his death, & after that a yearly rent of £13 5s 8d., charged on the tenement “where I now dwell” also certain beds etc.
To “my son” Robert, “the lease of my tenement & living where I now dwell”
To “my son” John £20 at 23. to include a legacy left him by Gilbert Phillip decd. also £3 to cover “a legacy left him by the will of my brother John Mortimer decd.”
To my son Roger £20 & to my daughter Joanna £20, to include legacies left them by the said Gilbert Phillip.
Residue to Robert his said son who is sole exor.
Witnesses: Hugh Harris, clerk, Peter Gye gent., Wm Thomas, yeoman
Proved 13 Jun 1614

i. Robert Mortimer (c.1590- ), born in Crediton, was perhaps named after Robert Gye, who may have been his maternal grandfather. He was sole executor of his father’s will and inherited the lease of Roger’s house in Crediton.

ii. Roger Mortimer (1596-aft.1622), bapt. 8 Dec 1596 Crediton, married c.1621, had one son, Henry b.1623. He was a contemporary of Roger Mortimer of Ashridge (c.1595-1659), whose sons were Thomas b.1625 and John b.1628. Perhaps the same as Roger Mortimer of Whitestone, who had a son Henry:

1. Henry Mortimer (1623- ), bapt. 3 Jan 1622/3, bur. 4 Jan 1622/3 Crediton.

iii. John Mortimer (c.1602- ), a godson of John Mortimer of Priorton d.1605, who he was perhaps named after. He was below the age of 23 in 1613. Perhaps lived in Tiverton. Mary Mortimer m. John Puddington, _1630 Tiverton could have been his widow.

1. William Mortimer of Tiverton (c.1623-1682), may have been a son of John. A fuller by trade, he leased property in Tiverton in 1670. In 1671, the “Mortimore tenement” was mentioned in the will of John Prowse of Tiverton. In the 1674 Hearth Tax, William was taxed on 3 hearths in Tiverton, the most of all Mortimers listed in the Hearth Tax records. William Mortimer married Joan, about 1655, who predeceased him and was bur. 28 May 1682 in Tiverton. In his will he expressed the wish to be buried in Crediton, presumably where he was born. William was bur. 6 Sep 1682 Crediton and an abstract of his will follows:

Will of William Mortimore the elder, of Tiverton, 22 Aug 1682.

Desires to be buried in Crediton Churchyard.
“To William Mortimore’s wife my three gold rings.”
To son, John Mortimore, ” one sylver spoone.”
Residue to sons, William and John Mortimore, who are joint exors.

Proved 16 May 1683.

William and Joan Mortimer had the following children:

i. James (1656-1661), bapt. 19 Jun 1656, bur. 22 May 1661 Tiverton.

ii. Thomas (1659-c.1660), bapt. 21 Feb 1658/9; not mentioned in father’s will, presumably predeceased him.

iii. John (c.1660-1662), unknown bapt. date, was bur. 21 Aug 1662.

iv. William Mortimer of Crediton (1661-1696?), bapt. 23 Dec 1661, a fuller, lived in Crediton. He seems to have been married before 22 Aug 1682, perhaps to Elizabeth Hambling in 1677, Crediton. William and John were executors of their father’s will. In 1684, William and his brother assigned a lease to Mark Daw of Tiverton. Administration of the estate of a William Mortimer of Crediton was granted in 1696. An abstract of this record exists but has not yet been reviewed.

v. John Mortimer of Tiverton (1663-1724), bapt. 9 Dec 1663, a wool comber. Listed in the Oath Roll taken at Exeter Castle 4 Dec 1723. He was bur. 1 Oct 1724 and had no known children.

iv. Joan Mortimer of Poughill (c.1598-c.1623), who never married, made a will dated 27 Aug 1622 as follows. She may have been the same Joane Mortymr bur. 6 Jul 1623 Sandford.

Abstract of the Will of Jane Mortimer

To my mother, Joan Philpe, 40s.
To brothers John and Roger Mortimer, 30s. “To the ringers of my knell,” 12d. each.
Other bequests to William Dodridge, and to Robert, his son, and to Walter Barton.
Residue to cousin, Robert Gye, sole exor. Proved 19 Sep 1623.

Her “cousin” Robert Guy, was the son of Thomas (c.1560-1620) son of Robert Guy (c.1532-1608). This suggests that Joan wife of Roger Mortimer was the also a daughter of Robert Guy. It is worth noting that Robert Mortimer married in 1619, Friston, Sussex. That Robert Mortimer was not living in Devon might explain how he was not recorded in his sister’s will.

6. Nicholas Mortimer of Tiverton (c.1558-1624), was perhaps the younger son, and was an ancestor of a branch of the Mortimers in Tiverton. He married Elizabeth Duder (c.1556-1615), 5 Nov 1582 Tiverton, and they had at least two children, Bridget and Hugh.

John? Mortimer (c.1528-c.1555) of Ranscombe

Ranscombe had belonged to the Mortimers since at least 1532, when a fragmentary lease mentioned “wife and son Mortymer of Rennyscomb”. Unfortunately the catalogue doesn’t provide their first names. The original document may provide some additional insight which could help ascertain the early generations. The “son” in the above record may have been a John Mortimer, who had the following children. He was not listed in the 1543 lay subsidy, but may have been too young to be recorded in the assessment.

1. John Mortimer of Ranscombe (c.1551-1613)

2. William Mortimer of North Creedy (c.1550-1604). William left a will as follows:

He leaves to the poor of this quarter of Sandford 5s. 
To his brother Richard 5s.
To Joane Meire, my daughter, £6
To William & Edward, sons of William Meire, one pair of lombes each
To Margaret “my daughter” 40s. and the remainder of certain furniture
To each of John Mortimer’s children 12d. each.
To John Mortimer, the younger, son of the said John, my son in law 40s. at 21
To Ann Ponsford my daughter £10
To John Ponsford son of William, “my son in law” one yeo lamb.
Residue to Joan who is sole executrix
Trustees: Richard Rede, Mr Densham & Wm Ponsford
Witnesses: The first two trustees, & John Hall
Proved 31 Aug 1604
Sum £19 8s. 3d.

William’s son in law John Mortimer is presumably the son of John Mortimer, of Ranscombe, whose wife was Margery. Margery held property in Creedy, Sandford, and the parish register records the burial of Margaret Mortimer, widow, in 1640. John and his wife were presumably therefore related. Margaret, wife of John Mortimer of Rookwood, was bur. in 1628, Sandford, but it is more likely she was the wife of John born d.1642.

3. Hugh Mortimer of Sandford (c.1554-1614), was first recorded in the 1581 lay subsidy in Sandford, when he was taxed on £3 in goods. Hugh was bur. 6 Mar 1613/4 Sandford and administration was granted on 12 Mar 1614 to Elizabeth his widow, at which time the summary value of his estate was £63 0s. 10d. His wife must have inherited half the value of his estate, as Elizabeth his widow made a will dated 18 Apr 1614 as follows. She was bur. 16 May 1614 Sandford.

She leaves to Joane Downe “my daughter” “my great best chest & all that is in it” also “my best gown, my best stamys wast-coat, a laffatn apron & my best carpet”.
To Edward Clotworthy 10s.
Residue to Andrew Mortimer, my son, who is sole exor.
Trustee, Andrew Payne, who witnesses with Ambrose Carpenter,
She further leaves to Marie Clotworthy her best stainell coat, white apron, & one yard & a half of new lynnen cloth in my coffer.
Proved 7 May 1614
Sum £32 3s. 4d.

Hugh and Elizabeth Mortimer had the following children:

i. Mary Mortimer c.1584- m. John Clotworthy 29 Apr 1605, Sandford.

ii. Joan c.1587 m. _ Downe (Alexander Down d.1619?)

iii. Andrew Mortimer c.1589-1617, married Agnes Wilson by licence, 17 Jan 1613/4; Agnes was a resident of Newton St Cyres. They had one child, a son John. Andrew Mortimer died about 1618 (no burial record extant), and made a will dated 20 Feb 1617/8 as follows:

Leaves to wife rent charge on land in Crediton and Cheriton FitzPain, terminable on the life of Thomas Mortymore, charged with an annuity of _ to son, John Mortymer.

Residue to wife, sole executrix.

Trustees, in minority of said son, William Bremridge and William Esworthy. Proved 20th March, 1617/8.

Agnes, widow of Andrew Mortimer, remarried to Christopher Payne, 6 Oct 1621. Her son John predeceased her according to a court record dated 1625.

Hugh Mortimer died intestate, leaving open the question of whether he had any children by an earlier marriage. If he had a first marriage, he may have been the father of John Mortimer of Lithybrooke (c.1575-1640), and Elizabeth would have had no reason to mention him in her will in 1614. This suggestion is supported by the records of his estate: his estate was valued at £60, Elizabeth his wife left £30, and the estate of John Mortimer of Lithybrooke amounted to about £30.

1. John Mortimer of Lithybrook (c.1575-1640). John was a contemporary of John Mortimer junior of Ranscombe, and lived at Lillybrook Cottage, less than a quarter of a mile from Priorton Barton.

John made a nuncupative will 11 Feb 1639/40, incorrectly transcribed as Cheriton Bishop by Burke, which is repeated in the book Devonshire wills by Charles Worthy. It’s not known what the origin of this error is, but there is a hamlet called Cheriton Cross in Sandford parish. Careful study of the will abstract confirms the will was made by John Mortimer of Lithybrook. His children were all baptised in Sandford. John left the residue to his wife Wilmot, who was the sole executrix. The witnesses were John Woodley and Roger Mortimer, perhaps either Roger Mortimer of Ashridge (c.1595-1659) or Roger Mortimer (1617-aft.1640). John was buried only a day after the nuncupative will, 12 Feb 1639/40 Sandford, and the burial record also states he was of Lythibrooke.

John Mortimer m.1. Bridget (bur. 20 Mar 1606/7); m.2. Wilmot Eveleigh (c.1582-c.1642), 12 Jun 1609 Sandford. Wilmot Mortimer survived him and died c.1642, Sandford.

Will of John Mortimer of Lithybrook, Sandford, _th Feb 1640 (1639/40)

Sons James, John, and Gilbert
daughters Frances wife of Robert Chapell, and Ann and Joan Mortimer.
Residue to wife Wilmot Mortimer, sole executrix.

Witnesses John Woodly, Roger Mortimer.
Proved Feby 1639(/40).
[Sum £30 9s. 10d.]

John and Bridget Mortimer had issue:

i. James Mortimer of Sandford (c.1596- aft.1642), m.1. Joan Webber, 16 Jan 1616/7, who was bur. 18 Sep 1618, and m.2. Agnes Bishop, 21 Feb 1619/20. Perhaps the same James Mortimer was listed in Crediton in the 1642 Protestation Oath Roll.

ii. John Mortimer (c.1601-aft.1640) presumably born before the start of the parish register; perhaps the same John Mortimer m. Joan Strong, 1635 Sandford. Joan Mortimer, widow was bur. in 1649 Sandford.

iii. Frances bapt. 20 Oct 1605, m. Robert Chappel (b.1599 Lapford?). Perhaps m. firstly, John Kerslake, 1624 Thorverton.

* Hugh Mortimer (c.1602-c.1633), perhaps also a son of John of Lithybrook. Hugh Mortimer of Shobrooke m. Alice Elworthie of Crediton by marriage licence dated 21 Jan 1627/8. They had two children, but both died in childhood. Hugh was not recorded in the 1642 Protestation oath and presumably died before this date, around 1633. Alice his wife may have remarried to Robert Vinnicombe, 21 Sep 1636 Sandford. Alice wife of Robert Vinecombe was bur. 11 Aug 1644.

i. John Mortimer, bapt. 4 Jan 1628/9, bur. 25 Jan 1628/9 Sandford.

ii. Grace; bapt. 3 Jan 1629/30, bur. 12 Feb 1629/30 Sandford.

John and his second wife Wilmot had the following children:

iii. Wilmot (1610-1636), bapt. 15 Jul 1610, bur. 16 Dec 1636 Sandford. Admon. was granted to John Mortimer her father, 11 Jan 1635/6 with sum of goods totalling £6 13s.

iv. Roger (1612-1613), bapt. 16 Aug 1612, bur. 9 Aug 1613 Sandford.

v. Robert (1615-1626), bapt. Sep 1615, bur. 7 Mar 1625/6 Sandford.

vi. Ann (1618- ), bapt. 27 Jan 1617/8, presumably m. George Benson, 13 Apr 1658 Sandford.

vii. Joan (1620-aft.1640), bapt. 6 Sep 1620 Sandford, fl.1640.

viii. Gilbert Mortimer (1620-1656), bapt. 6 Sep 1620 Sandford, presumably a twin of Joan Mortimer. He was listed in the 1642 Protestation return in Sandford alongside Gilbert Mortimer senior. He m. Agnes Hill (1619-1688), 3 May 1647 Sandford and they had two daughters. Gilbert was bur. 14 Mar 1655/6, and his wife remarried 2 Oct 1658 Sandford to Roger Tucker, of Sandford (1628-1701), and had two sons, Robert 1660 and Simon 1665. She was bur. 24 Mar 1667/8 Sandford.

1. Elizabeth bapt. 5 Mar 1649/50 Sandford, perhaps m. John Ponsford, 11 Feb 1672/3 Dunsford, and bur. 8 May 1673.

2. Thomasin (1656-1697) bapt. 15 May 1656, m. Simon Drew 19 Jan 1680/1 Sandford, bur. 22 Dec 1697 Sandford.

2. James Mortimer (c.1580-aft.1605), servant of John Mortimer of Priorton, who gave him a bequest of £100 in his will. James was presumably over the age of 21 in 1605 as the bequest was not contingent on him reaching his age of majority, as there was for other minor beneficiaries of the will such as Thomasin Fulford. Therefore he may have been a brother of John Mortimer of Lithybrooke.

There does not appear to be further record of James, assuming that the marriage register entries of 1617 and 1620 refer to James c.1595 son of John Mortimer of Lithybrooke.

4. Richard Mortimer of Sandford (c.1557-1606), mentioned as a brother in the will of William Mortimer. He was bur. 20 Mar 1605/6. Unfortunately no will survives so it is impossible to determine whether he married or had any children. He was perhaps father of the following Lawrence Mortimer, although this could instead have been Richard Mortimer of Crediton (d.1590) whose brother was named Lawrence.

Wilmot Mortimer married John Hedge (d.1619) 3 Feb 1606/7 Sandford, and was bur. 13 Dec 1622 Sandford, widow. She may have been wife of Richard.

* Lawrence Mortimer (c.1576-1623) bur. 6 Oct 1623 Sandford. His wife may have been Lucy Mortimer, widow, bur 20 May 1653.

1. Richard Mortimer bapt. 15 Oct 1605, Sandford, perhaps m. Emmine Westlake, 22 Sep 1629, Thorverton. No children were recorded.

2. Alice? c.1613-1659, m. William Burrowe (d.1655) 19 Oct 1639, Sandford, was bur. 25 Mar 1659, a widow. Alice may instead have been the widow of Hugh Mortimer, m.1627.

3. Thomas Mortimer, bapt. _Oct 1615, Sandford, who may have been the same Thomas Mortimer of Ranscombe (1615-1681).

John Mortimer of Ranscombe (c.1551-1613)

John Mortimer was perhaps born about 1550. In the 1581 lay subsidy, John Mortimer “of Ramescombe” was assessed at £6 in goods. He was presumably living in 1604, when a John Mortimer junior of Ranscombe was documented in the parish register. This younger John was presumably a son of the John Mortimer fl.1581.

John Mortimer of Ranscombe made a will 28 May 1607, as follows:

He leaves to his son John “all my lands tenements & hereditaments of Ranscombe to him & his heirs for ever, together with the “Here corner close called the Parcke”
To William Weekes, the younger “one heyfer” & to each of the other children of William Weeks, my son in law, one yeo lamb apeece
The same to William Halse & “to the rest of Robert Halse’s children”, The same to “the children of John Mortimer”
To Agnes, wife of Robert Halse, 40s.
To the poor of Sandford 10s.
To William Jossop 12d.
Residue to Katherine his wife who is sole executrix.
Witnesses. Thos Kelland, Jno Phillip, Jno Chilcott
Proved 12 Feb 1612/3
Sum £153 0s. 6d.

John Mortimer of Ranscombe was bur. 9 Feb 1612/3, Sandford. His wife Katherine Mortimer survived him by one year and was bur. 8 Jul 1614. There is no record of a will or letters of administration for her.

i. John Mortimer II (c.1575-1637), who was mentioned as John son of John Mortimer, and son in law in the will of William Mortimer of North Creedy, Sandford, 28 Jul 1604. He married Margery (c.1575-1640), and they had the following children, all of whom were baptised in Sandford. Their son John’s baptism is missing from the parish records, perhaps because of him being born before the start of the register. John Mortimer of Doggbeare was bur. 22 Jan 1636/7 Sandford.

Letters of administration to the effects of John Mortimer

Were granted on the 9 Feb 1636/7 to Margerie his wife
James Mortimer of the same parish joins the bond.
Sum £234 1s. 8d.

Margaret Mortimer, widow, was bur. 7 Oct 1640, and left a will as follows:

She leaves a tenement in Creedy, Sandford, granted by Sir Robert Chichester of Ralegh, & determinable on the lives of her children John & Margerie, as follows. One portion of the sd. tenmt. defined by met* & bounds to her son Roger.
A dielf of 9 acres, called Chaunter’s park, to her son James, during his life & that of her son Robert.
The rest of the Creedy tenmd. to her daughter Agnes & Catherine, who are sole exors.
Residue to her said daughters.
2 Trustees: Jno Vickery & Roger Lane will 4s. each.
Witnesses: Wm Vickery, Margery Lane
Proved 30 Oct 1640
Sum £205 13s. 0d.

1. John Mortimer (c.1598-1642), presumably the eldest son. Margaret, wife of John Mortimer of Rookwood was bur. 2 Jan 1627/8 Sandford. Rookwood cottage is less than half a mile from Dogsbeare, where John Mortimer d.1637 lived at the time of his will, and is a short walk along Coppice Lane.

John Mortimer of Sandford died intestate and was bur. 10 Dec 1642. Administration of his estate was granted to his sister Katherine on 13 Oct 1643 who exhibited the inventory of his goods (valued at £35).

i. John Mortimer (c.1621-1622); John son of John Mortimer was bur. 23 Feb 1621/2 Sandford. He was presumably the son of John and Margaret of Rookwood.

2. Thomas Mortimer of Sandford (c.1600-c.1630), an important connection in the family tree, married before 1623.

i. Thomasin Mortimer, bapt. 3 Dec 1623 Sandford, presumably m. Thomas Mortimer of Ranscombe (1615-1681).

3. Simon 1604-1612, b. 28 Oct 1604, bur. 15 Mar 1612.

4. Robert Mortimer (1606-c.1608), bapt. 13 Jul 1606 Sandford.

5. Sybil, bapt. 7 Jun 1607 Sandford, perhaps the same Sibley Mortimer bur. 23 Apr 1623, Shobrooke.

6. James Mortimer (1608- ), bapt. 11 Dec 1608 Sandford, presumably m. Joan Marry 31 Jan 1635/6 Exeter St Lawrence, and had the following children. The name Sapience shows a connection with Robert Mortimer d. 1645 who also chose the same name for one of his daughters (see below). James Mortimer of Sandford joined the bond in the record of a grant of administration for the estate of John Mortimer, 9 Feb 1636/7, perhaps the same James Mortimer m.1617 and 1620, Sandford.

i. John Mortimer (1636- ), b. 29 Nov 1636 Exeter St Lawrence

ii. Elizabeth (1637-1640), b. 12 Nov 1637 Exeter St Mary Major, bur. 20 Jul 1640

iii. Nathaniel b. 19 Apr 1640

iv. Sapience (1642-1644), b. 18 Sep 1642, bur. 22 Mar 1643/4 Exeter St Mary Major

v. Urath b. 25 Aug 1644

7. Agnes 1611, b. 25 Aug 1611 Sandford, had a natural daughter Sarah b.1639; Agnes may have m. Leonard Davey, 11 Nov 1643 Crediton.

i. Sarah (1639- ) bapt. 14 Dec 1639 Sandford.

8. Robert Mortimer of Sandford (1614-c.1645), b. 3 Apr 1614 Sandford, m. Mary Elliot, 24 Sep 1636 Sandford.

i. Sapience 1638-aft.1657, b. 28 Dec 1638 Sandford, m. Thomas Lutton (1634-1687), 20 Oct 1657 Sandford, was bur. 30 Oct 1681 Sandford.

ii. Robert Mortimer II 1644-1716, bapt. 20 Feb 1643/4 Sandford, presumably the same Robert Mortimer of Sandford, m. Ann Greenslade, widow, _ 1678/9 Stockleigh English. Ann his wife was bur. _ 1701 Sandford. Robert Mortimer, yeoman left a will dated 1716, of which there is a College of Arms abstract, and was bur. 23 Feb 1715/6 Sandford.

9. Katherine 1615, b. 2 Feb 1614/5 Sandford.

i. Andrew (1635-1635), illegitimate son of Katherine Mortimer, bapt. 6 Feb 1634/5 bur. 12 Mar 1634/5 Sandford.

10. Lewis 1617-1617, b. 6 Apr, bur. 19 Jul 1617 Sandford.

11. Roger 1617, b. 6 Apr 1617, who may have died in childhood.

ii. Agnes (c.1577- ), m. Robert Halse.

iii. a daughter, m. William Weeks fl. 1607, perhaps the same William Weeks d.1609 North Tawton.

Thomas Mortimer of Ranscombe (c.1615-1681) is hard to place in the family tree. Thomas Mortimer “of Ranscombe” features in a lease of property in Sandford in 1679 with his wife Thomasin and son Thomas. Nicholas Mortimer of Crediton and Alice his wife are also parties to the lease. Thomas of Ranscombe married in around 1646 to Thomasin (c.1623-1688); no marriage record exists. He was bur. 12 Jun 1681 Sandford, and his widow Thomasin bur. 11 Sep 1688. Gaps in the parish register in the 1640s and 50s means that several baptism records are missing. They had the following children:

i. Thomas Mortimer II (1647-aft.1679), b. 12 Dec 1647 Sandford.

ii. Elizabeth c.1650-1654, bur. 4 Jun 1654 Sandford.

iii. Lawrence c.1652-1655, bur. 3 Apr 1655.

iv. Mary 1661-1670, b. 19 May 1661, bur. 8 Jun 1670, Sandford

v. John Mortimer 1665, b. 2 May 1665 Sandford, who may be an ancestor of later generations

Mortimer of Ashridge

This family perhaps originates with John Mortimer, son of Nicholas d.1558.

John Mortimer (c.1542-1609) of Ashridge

John was presumably born in the 1540s and was a contemporary of John Mortimer senior of Ranscombe (c.1551-1613). In the 1581 Lay subsidy, his goods were assessed at £4. John Mortimer was bur. in Jan 1609, Sandford. Julian Mortimer of Ashridge, widow, was bur. 16 Jan 1611/2 Sandford. John and Julian Mortimer presumably had the following children:

1. Gilbert Mortimer of Witheridge (c.1565-c.1597). This generation is particularly confusing given that Gilbert Mortimer of Ashridge mentioned a brother in his will of the same name. He was perhaps either a half brother, illegitimate, or either a brother-in-law or step brother. If so, he would be the son of an otherwise unknown member of the family. From the birth dates of his children, it would not be surprising if Gilbert of Witheridge was slightly older than Gilbert of Ashridge.

A Mortimer alias Tanner family also lived in Witheridge at the same time but their connection to the main Mortimer family is unclear. Gilbert was only called Mortimer, rather than Tanner. The will of Gilbert Mortimer of Witheridge dated 1597 is listed in the records of the probate registry, but the original document does not survive. There is no record of his burial in Witheridge, perhaps because of a burial in another parish, perhaps Sandford. Gilbert presumably married Agatha, as Agatha Mortimer married William Garnsey 8 Jul 1598, Witheridge. Gilbert and Agatha Mortimer had issue:

i. Thomas Mortimer bapt. 26 Jan 1588/9 Witheridge: may have been the Thomas Mortimer of Morchard Bishop (c.1589-aft.1620).

ii. Julian, bapt. Jul 1592 Witheridge, the same name as Julian wife of John Mortimer of Ashridge, perhaps her grandmother.

iii. Anne bapt. 31 Mar 1595 Witheridge.

2. Gilbert Mortimer of Ashridge (c.1570-1620), was presumably the eldest son of John of Ashridge. He married Joan, who survived him by 18 years. Gilbert Mortimer made a will 27 Mar 1619/20 as follows:

He desires to be buried in Sandford church “neare my seate therein”
He leaves to the common stock of the parish of Sandford 40s. 
To his sons, Roger & Gilbert £60 each with remdr. to survivor, & to his son in law Robert Smale.
To his brother William, 20s. & to his children 1s. each.
To his sisters Mary Downe, & Joane Moore, 10s. each & to their children 1s. each
To Phillip Winter “sometimes the wife of my brother Thomas” 2s. & to her children by my brother 1s. each
To “the three children of my brother Gilbert of Witheridge” 1s. each
Residue to Joan my wife who is sole executrix
2 Trustees. James Aysshe, Robert Smale
Witnesses. the sd. Trustees & Richard Bonyfont
Proved 26 Apr 1620
Sum £177 0s. 6d.

Gilbert Mortimer was bur. 2 Apr 1620. Joan Mortimer of Ashridge, widow, was bur. 4 Sep 1638, Sandford. They had the following children:

i. Roger Mortimer of Ashridge (c.1595-1659), continued below.

ii. Grace c. 1597, m. Robert Smale, 21 Oct 1618 Sandford.

iii. Gilbert Mortimer c.1600-aft.1642. His baptism date is unknown. One of two Gilbert Mortimers recorded in the 1642 Protestation oath roll in Sandford. Wilmot wife of Gilbert Mortimer is recorded in a 1653 court record relating to land in Bradninch. Gilbert and Wilmot were presumably the parents of Gilbert Mortimer of Silverton (c.1630-1704), who married his wife Mary Saunder that same year in Bradninch.

iv. Mary (c.1602-1604), bur. 24 Mar 1603/4 Sandford, presumably born before the start of the register.

v. Alice (1606-bef.1620), bapt. 12 Dec 1606, perhaps died in childhood, as she was not mentioned in her father’s will despite the fact she would have still been a minor.

3. Thomas Mortimer (c.1573-c.1600?), who had children with Philippe Winter, “sometimes his wife”. She was perhaps the widow of Thomas and remarried, (Samuel Winter alias Benson was bur. 15 Sep 1617 Sandford). If the aforementioned children were born out of wedlock they would presumably have been called Winter. Philippe Winter married Richard Roberts 7 Aug 1620, Sandford (bur. 29 Dec 1635 Sandford).

4. Mary (c.1577-1637), m. _ Downe, was bur. 17 Jan 1636/7 Sandford.

5. Joan (c.1579-1645), m. Thomas Moore (alias Street), had a daughter Julian (c.1599- ), was bur. 18 Feb 1644/5 Sandford.

6. William Mortimer of Sandford (c.1580-1625), m. Grace Reed, 2 Nov 1605 Sandford. William died between 1622 and 1659. He may have been listed in the 1642 Protestation oath in Sandford, and bur. 10 Feb 1651/2. It is possible this record instead relates to his son William. Grace his widow was bur. 11 Sep 1659, Sandford. They had the following children:

i. Mary c.1607- , m. Robert Elston 21 Jan 1626/7 Sandford, presumably either the daughter of William c.1555- or William c.1580.

ii. Eleanor 1609-1667, bapt. 12 Mar 1608/9, bur. 14 Nov 1667 Sandford.

iii. Julian 1611-1656, bapt. 22 Apr 1611, m. Richard Bellamy of Colebrooke 10 Oct 1640 Sandford, bur. 15 Nov 1666 Colebrooke.

iv. William Mortimer (1614-?), bapt. 6 Mar 1613/4 Sandford.

v. Joan 1616-1623, bapt. 20 Oct 1616, bur. in 1623, Sandford.

vi. John Mortimer of Sandford (1619-1679?), bapt. 22 Aug 1619 Sandford; presumably the same John m. Ann, who was bur. 10 May 1678 Sandford. John Mortimer was bur. 27 Jun 1679 Sandford.

vii. Margery 1622-1694, bapt. 17 Mar 1621/2, m. John Lovell 20 May 1657, bur. 28 Dec 1694, Sandford.

Roger Mortimer of Ashridge (c.1595-1659)

Roger was the eldest surviving son of Gilbert Mortimer of Ashridge, yeoman, and was a contemporary of Roger Mortimer of Crediton (b.1596). He may have witnessed the will of John Mortimer of Lithybrook in 1640, and was recorded in the 1642 Protestation oath. Roger married Richord, and had two sons. His will dated 1659, states he was a yeoman of Ashridge Farm, Sandford, and provides for his surviving son and grandsons. It mentions William, Thomas and John, children of son Thomas Mortimer deceased, and Roger and Mary, children of his son John. The will mentions his aunt Mary Wivill, kinswoman Elizabeth Wivill, and George son of Alexander Wivill. Mary was presumably a maternal aunt, sister of Joan, as his paternal aunt Mary married a Mr Downe of Sandford and died in 1637, a widow. Roger Mortimer’s will also mentions property in Thorverton and appoints John Richards and John Morrish/ Norrish of Thorverton overseers and trustees, who were perhaps related to his wife. Roger was bur. 7 Mar 1658/9 Sandford, and his wife died sometime afterwards.

1. Thomas Mortimer (1625-c.1655) of Thorverton, the eldest son, was bapt. 13 Nov 1625 Sandford. He must have been a contemporary of Thomas Mortimer of Ranscombe, above. He predeceased his father, dying around the mid 1650s. His wife (whose maiden name may have been Norrish), perhaps remarried to a Mr Melhuish after his death. Their children were:

i. William Mortimer (c.1650-c.1678) of Thorverton, died intestate, and admon. was granted to his brother John Mortimer. He may have married Margaret Hill 19 Sep 1672, Cadbury. No burial record exists in Thorverton.

1. Margaret (1675- ) bapt. 29 Apr 1675, Thorverton.

2. John Mortimer of Thorverton (c.1678-c.1728) presumably the son of William of Thorverton. John m. Jane c.1708 and died c.1728. Jane Mortimer m. Samuel Stocker (b.1685 Huxham) 3 Jan 1729/30 Thorverton and was bur. 24 Mar 1731/2 Thorverton. John and Jane Mortimer may have been parents to:

i. Alice (c.1709- 1776), perhaps either a sister or older daughter of John Mortimer fl. 1721 Thorverton. Married Roger Reynolds, 6 Jan 1730/1 Thorverton, and was bur. 13 Jul 1776 Thorverton.

ii. Elizabeth (c.1718-c.1742), m. Thomas Moggridge 24 Jun 1740 Thorverton.

iii. William Mortimer (1721-1795), bapt. 23 Nov 1721 Thorverton, son of John. m. Sarah Mitchell 18 Oct 1750 Brampford Speke. William was bur. 3 Mar 1795 Brampford Speke, Sarah his wife bur. 19 Nov 1795. They had children:

1. Sarah (1750-1750) bapt. 1750 bur. 5 Nov 1750 Brampford Speke.

2. Margaret (1754-1754) bapt. 21 Aug 1754, bur. 24 Nov 1754.

3. William (1756- ) bapt. 18 Jan 1756.

4. Jane (1759- )bapt. 9 Sep 1759, m. Thomas Weeks 21 Sep 1787 Thorverton.

5. Elizabeth (1762-1833), bapt. 1 Jul 1762 Brampford Speke, m.1. John Dart (d.1802) 21 Nov 1782 Brampford Speke, m.2. Robert Rowse 22 Mar 1809 Brampford Speke, was bur. 7 Feb 1833 Brampford Speke, aged 70.

6. John (1765-1766) bapt. 30 Jun 1765, bur. 8 Jun 1766 Brampford Speke.

iv. John Mortimer (c.1723-1779), bur. 22 Jun 1779, having drowned.

v. Sarah (c.1725- ) m. Nicholas Thomas (1721-1748) 17 Feb 1745/6 Exeter St Petrock. Both were residents of Thorverton.

ii. John Mortimer (c.1652-c.1680) of Thorverton, died intestate; admon. of his goods was granted to his uncle John Norrish, for the benefit of his brothers, Thomas Mortimer and Lewis Melhuish. Dyonisius Melhuish joined the bond. This could be a female name and is a variant of Denys or Dewnes. Coincidentally, John Mortimer, their uncle married a woman called Dewnes. Lewis Melhuish was presumably a half brother of the Mortimers, rather than a brother in law, as Thomas had only brothers and was unmarried.

iii. Thomas Mortimer (c.1654- ), was living in 1680 at the time of the administration of his brother John Mortimers estate. and was presumably unmarried.

2. John Mortimer of Ashridge (1628-1691); John Mortimer was born in Sandford, the second son of Roger Mortimer of Ashridge. He was bapt. 24 Apr 1628 Thorverton. His father held land in Thorverton, and it may have been his mother’s home parish. He married Dewnes – who was presumably born in Thorverton – and they had the following children. In 1659, he was mentioned in his fathers will, who left him money to buy property in Thorverton. In 1674 he lived in Sandford and paid tax on two hearths in the Hearth tax. Dewnes his wife was bur. 29 May 1689 Sandford. John Mortimer, senior, husbandman, was bur. 20 Aug 1691 Sandford, he left a will as follows:

He leaves to Roger Mortimer “my eldest son” “my Table board”.
To Mary Mortimer “my eldest daughter” “my Easter dwelling house” & the chest” that was given her by her grandmother.
To “my daughter Joan” “my box to put clothes in” “my said daughters, and my daughter Jenny are to have the pewter dishes given them severally by their Godfathers, & God-mothers.
Residue to John Mortimer my son who is sole exor.
Witnesses: Joan Mortimer, David Vicarye
Proved 2 Aug 1692. 
Sum £46 16s. 2d.

John and Dewnes Mortimer had the following children:

i. Margaret (1654-1654), b.17 Oct 1654, bur. 3 Nov 1654, Sandford

ii. Roger Mortimer (1657-aft.1690), bapt. 9 Dec 1657, named after his grandfather Roger Mortimer, and possibly his godson, mentioned in his will dated 1659. He married Mary Lea, 20 Dec 1690 Puddington, but it is unknown whether he had issue.

iii. Mary (c.1659- ), mentioned in her grandfather Roger Mortimer’s will in 1659.

iv. Susanna (1660-1684), b. 13 Apr 1660, bur. 29 Feb 1683/4 Sandford.

v. John Mortimer II (1662-1730), b. 15 Oct 1662 Sandford, was presumably called John Mortimer junior, at the time John Mortimer senior died in 1691, Sandford. John was the sole residuary beneficiary of his father’s will. He was presumably the same John Mortimer of Sandford, m. Honor Place 1 Jul 1705 Sandford. They had five daughters, but as can be seen, the Sandford parish register does not record all the burials:

1. Joan bapt. 7 Apr 1706 Sandford.

2. Mary bapt. 15 Feb 1707/8, who had an illegitimate daughter:

i. Sarah Mortimer (1730- ), bapt. 11 Jan 1730 Sandford. Sarah had an illegitimate son:

1. William Mortimer (1755- ), bapt. 6 Apr 1755 Sandford.

3. Susanna bapt. 28 Sep 1712.

4. Sarah bapt. 19 Feb 1715/6, died in infancy, but burial record is missing.

5. Sarah bapt. 25 May 1718.

vi. Guinevere (1665-1697), b. 9 Nov 1665, presumably the same as daughter “Jenny” mentioned in the Will of John Mortimer, bur. 30 Sep 1697 Sandford, at which time she was of “Kinnerley”, presumably Kennerleigh, just north of Sandford.

vii. Joan Mortimer c.1668- presumably m. Alexander Norris, 16 May 1697 Sandford, bur. 28 Oct 1750, Sandford.

viii. Thomas Mortimer (1673-1755), continued in Mortimers of Sandford Part 2.

ix. William Mortimer (1676- ), b. 19 Jul 1676, of whom further details are unknown. A William Mortimer lived in Pinhoe in 1710, and he may belong to a different branch of the family.

Resources

Resources

Historical Records

The following resources should be useful for those researching the Mortimer family, particularly in Devon. These resources have been created for free access, for the purposes of genealogy and one name studies.

Mortimers in the 16th century Devon Lay Subsidies

The Lay subsidies of 1523-4 and 1543-5, and 1581 are particularly well preserved for the county of Devon. Henry VIII levied the taxes in order to continue with his “war games” against France. The lay subsidy only includes the names of men and some widows, who were liable to pay the tax. Only those above a certain income were included and the tax often excluded those of lower income such as labourers. Some parishes were missing but the survey is relatively complete for central Devon, where the majority of Mortimers lived. Many Mortimers appear in the subsidy, meaning it is one of the oldest and most important sources for studying the history of the family in Devon.

Devon Mortimer Wills Index

All original Devon wills and probate records were lost during World War II when the Exeter Probate registry was destroyed in the Exeter Blitz. The Mortimer Wills Index is an extracted list of all Mortimer wills included in the Devon Wills Project. The vast majority were proved in Exeter or London. The list has been edited to reflect the most useful surviving copy or abstract of a will. All wills with the Group Code WOR were included in Charles Worthy’s 19th century book “Devonshire Wills” which can be read online here: Devonshire Wills: A collection of annotated testamentary abstracts

Extract of all Mortimer entries from “Devonshire Wills”: Mortimer Will extracts

Mortimers in the Devon Protestation Oaths

In January 1642, angered by the recent actions of the King Charles I, Parliament enacted an Oath of allegiance to the “True Protestant Religion” to preserve the supremacy of Protestantism and the privileges of Parliament. This oath was to be signed by all men in the Kingdom over the age of eighteen, in order to guard against potential Catholic insurrections. With rumours swirling and tensions mounting, this was the preamble to a devastating war that would split the Kingdom in two and permanently change the political landscape forever. At the heart of the lists produced, are the lives of thousands of ordinary men pulled into a conflict that was not of their making, many yeomen, tradesmen, labourers, mariners and miners who lived with little impact on the political changes in the country but who were made to reinforce the superiority of the Protestant government. The records in Devon survive well compared to elsewhere in the country, and many Mortimers appear in the records, giving us a snapshot of the distribution of the name in Devon by this point and the number of family members in each location.

Mortimers in the Devon Hearth Tax

The Hearth Taxes were levied in 1662 in an attempt to make up the shortfall in the Royal allowance, the income granted to King Charles II and the Royal household. This novel form of tax was new to England but had been used before abroad. The charge of one shilling for every hearth in a dwelling was to be paid in twice yearly instalments, at Michaelmas and Lady Day. The tax was payable by the occupier but later changed to the landlord. Paupers and those with a household income of less than £1 were exempt from the tax. Generating significant debate, the tax was much despised by the upper classes, whom it hit particularly hard. Many tried to avoid the tax altogether by blocking up the hearths to conceal them from the inspectors, but those who were caught were charged double.

Mortimers in Bristol burial records

The Bristol Mortimers burial index is a small index of Mortimer entries into the burial registers of Anglican churches in Bristol and nearby, 1754-1837. This index does not include entries in non-conformist chapels, which will be included in due course.

Wills and Testament Transcriptions

The following is a list of will transcriptions and abstracts among further resources. Wills and probate records are a vital source of information for genealogists.

Will of John Mortimer of Priorton, 1604/5 – Transcription

External Links

Here is a list of my favourite websites; for research, historical records and genealogy. Favourite Websites

Need help with your online research?

Are you a family history researcher? I can potentially help with busting that brick wall in your research. Get in touch with me here.