The Hundred Pimhill is bounded on the north by Flintshire, on the west by the Oswestry Hundred, on the east by the Albrighton division and the Bradford Hundred, and on the south by the Hundred of Ford and the Albrighton division. The population of this hundred in 1801 was 11,874; the number of inhabited houses 2,112. In 1841 there was a population of 11,857 souls, of whom 5,900 were males., and 5,857 females. At the same period there were 2,297 inhabited houses, 48 uninhabited, and 10 houses building. This hundred comprehends the Baschurch and Ellesmere divisions. The former contains the following townships and chapelries, viz., Alderton, Baschurch, Birch, Boreatton or Bratton, Ensdon, Eyton, Felton Butler, Fennemere, Hopton, Kinton, Merehouse, Montford, Ness Cliff, Ness Great, Ness Little, Newtown, Petton, Prescott, Shrawardine, Stanwardine-in-the-Fields, Stanwardine-in-the-Wood, Walford, Weston Lullingfield, Wilcott, and Yeaton.

The Ellesmere division contains Balderton, Birch and Lythe, Burlton, Cockshutt and Crosemere, Colemere, Crickett, Criftins, Dudleston, Eastwick, Ellesmere, Elson and Greenhill, Frankton, Hampton Welsh, Hampton Wood, Hardwick, Hordley, Kenwick Stockett and Whattall, Kenwicks Park, Kenwicks Wood, Lee, Lineal, Loppington, Marton, Middle, New Marton, Newnes, Newton, Noneley, Northwood, Oteley, Newton and Spoonhill, Sleap (part of), Stocks and Coptiviney, Tetchill, Trench.

BASCHURCH

is a respectable village, pleasantly situated about half a mile west of the Baschurch railway station, and eight miles N.W. from Shrewsbury. The parish contains the several townships of Baschurch, Birch, Boreatton, Eyton, Fennemere, Merehouse, Newtown, Prescott, Stanwardine-in-the-Fields, Stanwardine-in-the-Wood, Walford, Weston and Yeaton, which together have an area of 10,758 acres of land. Rateable value, £11,470. 11s. 6d. Population in 1801, 1,059; in 1831, 1,321; and in 1841, 1,491. Baschuch is a place of great antiquity. Cynddylan, the British prince, slain at Whittington by the Saxons, about the year 570, was interred here. The parish church is one of the eighteen churches found in the county at the Doomsday survey, at which time Baschurch was the head of a hundred. About a mile from the village is a remarkable British fortress, or hold, the remains of which are very distinct, and an object of great attraction to the antiquary. It consists of two positions, one a natural eminence about forty-five feet high, surrounded at the bottom by a circular vallum; the other an elliptical entrenchment, on which more pains have been bestowed, very much lower than the other, and perfect on three sides, the fourth being open, and apparently extended into a wider and more irregular form. The vallum of this elliptical entrenchment, where it faces the eminence described above, is thrice the height of any other part of it. These two positions are surrounded, on one side by a deep pool, on the other sides by an extensive tract of black peaty soil, which was probably at an early period covered with water. The works are connected by a low road, made, by incredible labour, of small stones heaped together; and both are connected with the main land by a similar road leading across the morass in a curve. If this road was covered with water, as probably it was to the depth of a few inches, strangers would not know where it was; and the loftier fortress had a farther defence in an interruption of the roads, which do not reach all the way to it, but cease within a few feet of the point of juncture, and thus act as a kind of rude draw-bridge, where those in the fortress might lay down a plank for those without to pass over. At the point where this interruption of the road exists, was evidently the road into the fort, which is there defended by two outworks; one on each side. It was in this fastness that Cynddylan, imitating his aboriginal forefathers, who fortified themselves in woods and marshes, sought an asylum after his expulsion from Pengwern (Shrewsbury). No reason can be assigned why he should be buried at Baschurch, but that his residence was in the immediate vicinity.

The Church is an ancient structure, dedicated to All Saints, and consists of nave, chancel, and side aisles, with a square tower, in which are four bells. There is a gallery at the west end, upon which is a fine-toned organ. The south side of the church was built about the year 1615, and the north side in the year 1790. It contains several handsome tablets and memorials to some of the principal families in the neighbourhood; one of which, a handsome pyramidal monument of elegant and costly workmanship, executed in marble, records the death of William Basnett, Esq., of London, a native of Baschurch, whose nephew and adopted heir, William Birch, assumed the name of Basnett. Another memorial remembers Rowland Hunt, Esq., and there are others to the Preslands, Slaneys, Mucklestons, and Corbets. There is an ancient Bible chained to the reading desk. The living is a vicarage, valued in the King’s book at £10. 16s., in the patronage of the Lord Chancellor, and enjoyed by the Rev. William Jones. The church stands on the site of a former edifice, which was burnt down in the year 1404. Divine service was performed in the Manor House, at Walford, till a new church was built. A stone in the churchyard remembers William Green, who died at the age of ninety years; and about fifteen years ago Mrs. Jones Hill Green died at the age of ninety-nine years. The tithes were commuted in 1844 for £285. The vicarage is a good residence, pleasantly situated, and stands a little east from the church. It has been considerably improved by the present incumbent

Newtown may be considered to form a part of Baschurch. It is a separate township, situated between the railway station and the village, the Shrewsbury and Chester railway intersecting the eastern side of the township. In 1841 here were 25 houses and 131 inhabitants. There are two neat and capacious schools at Newtown, and a preparatory school at Weston, supported from the funds of Mrs. Harris’s charity. In consequence of the advantages of gratuitous education, the village is constantly improving. The salubrity of the air, the facilities of railway communication, and the general order and quiet retirement, render it a desirable place for the erection of villa residences. A commodious inn has recently been built at the railway station, which is conducted by Mr. Thomas Wilkinson. A market has been established on Friday, for the sale of corn, butter, and poultry, which is held near the railway station. There is a bowling green at the Admiral Duncan, and a female benefit society, which is well supported. Rowland Hunt, Esq., is lord of the manor. The principal landowners are the lord of the manor; the Rev. William Jones; Robert A. Slaney, Esq., M.P.; Richard Edwards, Esq.; Frederick Edwards, Esq.; Edward Edwards, Esq.; William Sparling, Esq.; Mary Pickstock; and others are also proprietors. The soil is a mixture of gravel and loam, highly productive, and about one half may be considerable arable. The river Perry divides Baschurch from Ruyton, and skirts Boreatton Park.

Charities.—Eleanor Harris, by will, bearing date 17th May, 1709, devised certain land and tenements, at Stanwardine-in-the-Fields, in trust, to pay certain annuities therein mentioned, and to dispose of the residue for the providing of schooling for the boys and girls of such of the lowest rank of inhabitants within the parish of Baschurch as should not be able to give them a proper schooling; and she directed that such children should be taught to read and spell well, and to write fair hands and cast accounts, so as to fit the boys for ordinary trades; and that when the profits of the trust estate should be sufficient her trustees should apply a reasonable part thereof for putting out the boys apprentices, and for providing portions for the girls, to be given them on marriage; and she further directed that her trustees should pay yearly 20s. to the officiating minister of the parish for a sermon in the church, on the afternoon of the Sunday next after the anniversary of her death, at which time she desired such minister to declare publicly the principal directions of her will, to the intent that the same might never be concealed or suppressed; and that the trustees should lay out 20s. for a dinner for themselves. The property belonging this charity consists of 267a. 2r. 36p. of land and certain houses, besides 7a. 2r. 31p., which was planted about fifty years ago with oaks, and the school premises, consisting of 1a. 1r. 32p., at Newtown. When the Charity Commissioners published their report the yearly income amounted to £323. 10s. The boys are taught reading, writing, and accounts, and the girls reading and needlework. They are all supplied with every article of clothing, except linen, once a year, and with books and all school requisites; and they are permitted to remain in the school till they are of sufficient age to go out to service, or to be bound apprentice. When the children go out to service they receive a complete suit of clothing, and a Bible and a Prayer Book; and if they continue in the same place with credit for five years, they receive a gratuity of £3; and if for seven years, £5. In this respect no difference is made between the boys and girls. The boys are occasionally placed out apprentice, with a premium of £6 each. Nothing is paid out of the fund for marriage portions. There is also a dame school supported out of the funds, for teaching the younger children of poor persons residing at Weston. The present trustees are R. A. Slaney, Esq., M.P.; William Matthews, Esq.; Richard Wall, Esq.; and Mr. John Jebb.

Thomas Baker, in 1839, gave a rent charge of £4 per annum, to be expended in bread, and given to the poor of the parish on Sundays for ever.

Edward Tomkies, by will, in 1771, bequeathed to the poor of the parish of Baschurch £100. The interest to be laid out in sixpenny loaves of good bread, and given to the poor over and above their usual allowance on Christmas days and Easter Sundays.

Richard Wilkins gave £20, the interest to be distributed by the vicar and churchwardens to such poor people as should not receive relief.

Rev. John Barnet gave £20, and directed the interest to be distributed to the poor.

A yearly sum of £4. 11s. 2d. is paid to a schoolmaster, as the interest of £114 in the hands of R. Hunt, Esq. It does not appear from whose benefaction this money was derived; but it appears it was formerly laid out on turnpike security, with £130 belonging to two other charities, making altogether £244; which sum was afterwards placed in the hands of R. Hunt, Esq.

Sarah Atcherley gave £30 to the poor, the interest to be given in bread on Christmas days.

Thomas Presland, in 1779, gave £20, the interest to be distributed yearly to poor distressed housekeepers.

Post Office.—At Mr. John Morris’s. Letters arrive at 8.45 A.M., and are despatched at 4 45 P.M.Those marked 1 reside at Baschurch; 2 New town; 3 Railway Station.

1 Birch Edward, Esq., The Hall

2 Birch Miss M. A., boarding school

1 Buckley and Davies, milliners and bonnet makers

1 Carr William, tailor

2 Crookenden Mrs., schoolmistress

1 Davies Richard, baker and parish clerk

3 Haycock Robert, agent to the Brymbo Company, dealer in coal, lime, slate, &c.

1 Hinksman John, shoemaker

2 Humphreys Mary, provision dealer

2 Jebb John, station master

2 Jones Joseph, farmer and maltster

2 Jones Joseph, butcher

2 Jones Mary, farmer

2 Jones Thomas, farmer

2 Jones William P. schoolmaster, and collector of rates

1 Jones Rev. William, The Vicarage

1 Leek Thomas, wheelwright

1 Matthews William, farmer

2 Morris Charles, licensed to let post horses

3 Morris Charles, agent to Mr. Ward for the Black Park Coal, dealer in lime, slate, &c.

1 Morris John, grocer and innkeeper

2 Mullinex John, blacksmith

2 Oliver Joseph, shoemaker

1 Pickstock Henry, farmer

1 Poole Edward, tailor

2 Poole Sarah, beerhouse-keeper

1 Pugh John, shoemaker

1 Pugh Thomas, farmer

1 Roberts Thomas, blacksmith

1 Simpson John, joiner and builder

2 Throckmorton J. Esq.

1 Thomas John, shoemaker

3 Thomas William, agent to G. Young for the Cefn coal, and dealer in lime and bricks, &c.

3 Wilkinson Thomas, victualler, Station Inn and Posting House, and Admiral Duncan Inn

BIRCH

is a small township in the parish of Baschurch, two miles N.W. from the Baschurch Railway Station, which in 1841 was returned as containing two houses and twenty-two inhabitants. The river Perry divides this township from Ruyton, and is skirted on the east by Boreatton Park. Rowland Hunt, Esq., is the landowner, and lord of the manor. The township contains 432 acres of land. Rateable value, £439. The Birch Park farm is occupied by John Vaughan.

BOREATTON, OR BRATTON,

is a township pleasantly situated nine miles and a half N.W. by N. from Shrewsbury, and about two miles from the Baschurch Railway Station. In 1841 there were seven houses and 32 inhabitants. (The acres are given with the parish.) Rateable value, £708. 5s. The soil is of a superior quality, producing good wheat and barley. Large flocks of sheep are kept in this neighbourhood. Boreaton Hall, an elegant mansion of brick in the Elizabethan style of architecture, is the seat and property of Rowland Hunt, Esq. The mansion is approached by a handsome portico of free stone, supported by four circular pillars. The grounds are tastefully laid out with pleasure grounds and shrubberies; and the Park, though not of great extent, is richly wooded, and beautified with some fine avenues of beech and other trees.

The principal residents are Rowland Hunt, Esq., Boreatton Hall; Miss Hunt, Boreatton Park House; John Grant, farm bailiff; George and Henry Hunt, farmers and corn millers, Platt Mills, Thomas Payne, gamekeeper.

EYTON,

a small township and sequestered village, is situated about two miles N.E. by E. from Baschurch. At the census of 1841 there were 11 houses and 56 inhabitants. The township is intersected by the railroad from Shrewsbury to Chester. Here are several large pools of water, covering many acres of land, and are well stocked with fish. The land has an undulating surface, and the soil is a mixture of loam and clay. The principal landowners are the Duke of Cleveland, and D. F. Atcherley, Esq.; besides whom there are several smaller proprietors. The Birch Grove House, the residence of John Evans, Esq., is a neat edifice, stuccoed, and is surrounded with pleasure grounds tastefully laid out. Near it is a fine sheet of water. Elizabeth Waring bequeathed £20, and directed the interest to be distributed among the poor of this township on the Sunday before Christmas day.

The farmers in Eyton are Richard Cutt, Samuel Price, Ann Teece, John Weston, and Thomas Whittingham. John Mason, blacksmith.

FENNEMERE,

another small township in Baschurch parish, had six houses and 43 inhabitants at the census of 1841. It is situated two miles and a quarter from Baschurch, and five miles S.W. of Wem. (The acres are returned with the parish.) The land presents gentle undulations and inequalities on the surface, and the soil is in general heavy, producing good crops of wheat and barley. The Duke of Cleveland is the sole proprietor. In this township there is a fine sheet of water, covering a considerable extent of land. The farms are extensive, and the houses and out-buildings are conveniently arranged. The resident farmers are Edward Kent, Joseph Lee, and Charles Wood.

MEREHOUSE

is a township intersected by the Shrewsbury and Chester railway, situated about a quarter of a mile from the Baschurch station, and eight miles N.N.W. from Shrewsbury. The township contained one house and sixteen persons in 1841. Rateable value, £200. 5s. Rowland Hunt, Esq., is the lord of the manor, but the land is the property of Richard Wall, Esq., who resides on the estate, having erected a pleasantly situated house to the east of Baschurch station, with commodious and conveniently arranged farm buildings. In this township is situated the British Fortress, previously noticed with Baschurch, as the retreat of Cynddylan, a British Prince, after being driven by the Saxon invader from the city of Pengwerne (Shrewsbury). It is protected by a pool of water of considerable extent, called the Berth, and a morass. Richard Wall, Esq., of Merehouse Hall, is the only resident.

NESS LITTLE, OR NESS CLIFF,

is a chapelry and village, consisting chiefly of respectable farm houses, in the parish of Baschurch, pleasantly situated two miles and a half S.W. from the Baschurch station, and seven miles and a half N.N.W. from Shrewsbury. In 1801 the population was 202, and at the census of 1841 there were 46 houses and 238 inhabitants. The tithes were commuted in 1847 for £232. 10s. The rectoral tithes of this township are paid to the Rev. David Birds, except those of the Milford and Adcott Hall estates. The incumbent of Baschurch receives the small tithes. The township contains 1,348 acres of land. The soil is generally a stiff sandy loam, producing good crops of wheat, barley, and beans. About two-thirds of the land is arable. Rateable value, £1,326. 13s. Earl of Powis is lord of the manor. The principal landowners are Henry Dickinson, Esq.; George Edwards, Esq.; R. A. Slaney, Esq., M.P.; Edward Brayne, Esq.; William Matthews, Esq.; Mrs. Jones; and Samuel Bickerton, Esq. Henry Dickinson, Esq., has recently purchased an estate from the Earl of Powis, and is now erecting an extensive and costly range of farm premises on the most approved principles. The Church is an ancient structure, paved with encaustic tiles, and was new pewed in 1835, the expense of which was defrayed by public subscription. It contains a fine old font, with the date of 1565. The communion cup, which is of silver, exhibits a curious piece of handicraft, and has the date 1565 upon it. The living is a curacy annexed to the vicarage of Baschurch. Adcott Hall, the residence of Thomas Mansell, Esq., is an ancient erection, with extensive farm premises, conveniently arranged, connected with it. Milford Hall, an ancient timbered residence in good preservation, exhibits a fine specimen of the domestic architecture of by-gone days.

Directory.—Farmers: Edward Brayne, and maltster; Thomas Brookfield, Adcott Mills; Andrew Mansell; Thomas Mansell, Adcott Hall; James Payne, Milford House; Abraham Powell, Milford Mill; Alice Smith, Milford Hall; Abraham Woolrich; Thomas Gilston, farm bailiff to Henry Dickinson, Esq. Edward Griffiths, shoemaker; William Hughes, parish clerk; William Jones, shopkeeper, Vale lane; Edward Pugh, wheelwright.

PRESCOTT

is a township and pleasantly situated village on the Shrewsbury and Baschurch turnpike road, seven and a half miles N.E. by N. from the former place, and one mile south from the latter. In 1841 there were 23 houses and 103 inhabitants. The principal landowners are Robert A. Slaney, Esq., M.P.; John Bromley, Esq.; and Mrs. Barrett; besides whom there are several other freeholders. The land has an undulating surface, with a strong loamy soil.

Directory.—John Bromley, Esq.; Andrew Mellor Needham, Esq.; Thomas Pearce, blacksmith; John Poole, tailor; Richard Smith, farmer; William Thomas, grocer and provision dealer; David Vaughan, farmer; Griffith Windsor, builder.

STANWARDINE-IN-THE-FIELDS

is a township and well-built village, near the line of the Shrewsbury and Chester railway, one and a half mile N.W. from Baschurch, and nine miles N.W. by N. from Shrewsbury. The railway is here crossed by a substantial stone bridge. At the census of 1841 there were 30 houses and 160 inhabitants. The land in this township is generally good, and produces fine crops of wheat and turnips. The Duke of Cleveland is lord of the manor; and the trustees of Mrs. Eleanor Harris’s charily, Mrs. Phillips, Mr. Hilton, Sir John R. Kynaston, Bart., Miss Emma Jones, and the vicar of Baschurch, are the principal landowners. The Park House, a good residence of brick, stands about half a mile north-west from the village, and is the residence of Mr. Richard Hiles. It was built two years ago. The farm premises are admirably contrived, and replete with every convenience.

The residents are—Farmers: Thomas Atcherley, Edward Corden, Thomas Davies, the Beith; Richard Hiles, Stanwardine Park; John Pembrey, Thomas Perry, and James Windsor. Edward Griffiths, blacksmith; Richard Parbutt, shopkeeper.

is a small township and secluded village with a scattered population, four and a quarter miles north from Baschurch, and 12 miles N.N.W. from Shrewsbury. In 1841 there were 9 houses and 69 inhabitants. Rateable value, £1,037. 8s. The Hall is an antique mansion, built about the year 1681, and occupied by Stephen Denston, Esq. It is approached by a flight of steps and a portico; the sides of the great hall are of panelled oak, enriched with carved work, and upon one of the scrolls is the date 1588. The apartments are decorated with some fine paintings and costly prints; the steps of the staircase are of solid blocks of oak, and the floors are laid with oaken planks four inches thick. In the front of the hall is a pedestal of stone, upon which is affixed a sun-dial; on the plate, which is of silver, is a beautiful engraving and some fine tracery, bearing the arms of the Corbets and the Wynns, and the date 1560. The ancient hall of Stanwardine was a moated mansion, and stood a little south from the present structure. It was in early times the seat of a branch of the ancient family of Corbet, and subsequently of the Wynns. In the front of the present hall are the family arms of the Corbets and the Wynne, exhibiting a beautiful specimen of chiselling. Wicherlry Hall, an ancient structure chiefly composed of timber, has recently undergone considerable reparations, and a new front has been added. It is the property of C. K. Mainwaring, Esq., and occupied by Mr. George Belliss, who farms upwards of 200 acres of the land in this township. William Sparling Esq., is the principal landowner; Charles Kynaston Mainwaring, Esq., and others, are also proprietors.

Directory.—Farmers, George Belliss, Wicherley Hall; John Williams, Stanwardine Hall; Mary Jones, Andrew Jones, and John Young.

WALFORD,

a small township with a scattered population, is situated two and a half miles S.E. from Baschurch, and six miles and a half N.W. by N. from Shrewsbury. In 1841 there were 74 inhabitants. The Duke of Cleveland is lord of the manor; Robert A. Slaney, Esq., M.P., is a considerable land owner. The land has generally a fertile soil. The turnpike road from Shrewsbury to Baschurch intersects the township. Walford Manor is a handsome mansion of modern erection, the seat and property of Robert Aglionby Slaney, Esq., M.P. for Shrewsbury; Mr. Slaney has been a member of parliament for thirty years, devoting himself to the advancement of the people, labouring to disclose and have removed the causes injurious to the public health, and to increase the means of instruction and healthful recreation of the working classes. Free trade and political reforms have had his constant support. He has also published several works, on subjects identical with those which have busied him in public life—an “Essay on the employment of the poor,” (to this was awarded a silver medal from the Board of Agriculture); an “Essay on the beneficial direction of rural expenditure;” a “Plea to power and parliament for the working classes,” &c. The old Manor House is an ancient dilapidated structure, now occupied as a farm dwelling.

Slaney Robert Aglionby, Esq., M.P., Walford Manor

Burroughs Joshua, farmer, The Heath

Davies John, blacksmith

Griffiths Richard, shoemaker

Jennings Thomas, beerhouse

Jones Isaac, wheelwright

Jones John, farmer

Jones Mary, farmer

Jones William, gamekeeper

Lee Wm. farmer, The Heath

Price Thos. farmer, Leasows

Price Thomas, jun., butcher

Shore Thomas, farmer and maltster

Smith Richard, farmer, bailiff, The Manor

Speake Samuel, joiner and carpenter

Williams William, tailor

Wycherley John., farmer, The Hayes

WESTON LULLINGFIELD

is a township and straggling village two and a half miles north from Baschurch, and ten and a half miles N.N.W. from Shrewsbury. There are several good farm houses here, with commodious and conveniently arranged out premises. The chief landowners are the trustees of Mrs. Harris’s charity, Mrs. Bowman, William Birch, Esq.; the Earl of Bradford, the Vicar of Baschurch, Thomas Tisdale, Esq.; William Sparling, Esq.; D. F. Atcherley, Esq.; C. K. Mainwaring; Esq.; Sir John R. Kynaston, Bart.; Mrs. Mary Parton, and Mr. Hilton. The Primitive Methodists have a neat stone chapel here. The Free School for the junior children of the parish is a branch in connection with the school at Newtown, under the management of the trustees of Mrs. Eleanor Harris’s charity. The master receives a progressive payment according to the number of children instructed. This place is returned at the census of 1841 as having a population of 213 souls, at which time there were 46 houses. A branch of the Chester and Ellesmere canal runs into this township.

Adams John, farmer

Adams William, farmer

Birch William, farmer

Boliver Edward, cooper

Boliver Richard, shopkeeper

Boliver William, tailor

Cotton Thomas, farmer

Griffiths Wm., wheelwright

Haycocks John, blacksmith

Higgins John, farmer

Jones Thomas, farmer

Jones Thomas, wheelwright

Lee George, tailor

Lee John, shoemaker

Lee John, farmer

Parton Thomas, shoemaker

Price Richard, shopkeeper & vict., Boat Inn

Trevor William, farmer and tailor

Williams Edward, agent to Richards & Co., Ruabon, coal and lime merchants, Canal Wharf.

YEATON

is a village and township two and a half miles S.E. from Baschurch, and six and a half miles N.N.W. from Shrewsbury, returned in 1841 as having 37 houses and 195 inhabitants. The principal landowners are Robert A. Slaney, Esq., M.P.; J. A. Lloyd, Esq.; Captain James Parry, Mr. Richard Williams, and John Smith, Esq.; the former is lord of the manor and impropriator. The hall, a handsome stuccoed residence occupied by George Wade, Esq., is pleasantly situated near the turnpike road from Shrewsbury to Baschurch. There are also several neat villas of modern erection.

The principal residents are Miss Beech, The Hall; Captain James Parry, The Grove; George Wade, Esq., The Hall. Farmers, Richard Cotton, William Cotterhill, Upper Corn Mills; Samuel Onions, Medley Farm; James Perry, The Grove Farm; William Turner, and corn miller, and Richard Williams, The Flour Mills.

ELLESMERE

is a respectable market town and extensive parish, partly in the hundred of Maylor, in the county of Flint, but chiefly in the Ellesmere division of the Pimhill hundred, in the county of Salop, sixteen miles N.N.W. from Shrewsbury, and eight miles N.N.E. from Oswestry. The parish contains the following townships in this county, viz.:—Birch and Lythe, Cockshutt and Crosmere, Crickett, Dudleston, Eastwick, Ellesmere, Elson and Greenhill, Frankton, Hampton’s Wood, Hardwick, Kenwick Stockett and Whattall, Kenwick’s Park, Kenwicks Wood, Lee, Lineal, New Marton, Northwood, Oteley Newton and Spoonhill, Stocks and Coptiviney, Tetchill, and Trench, which together contain 25,676a. 0r. 20p. of land. Rateable value, £42,341. In 1801 there were 5,909 inhabitants; 1831, 7,057, and in 1841, 7,080. The rectoral tithes have been commuted for £2,351, when £1,576 were apportioned to the trustees of the Earl of Bridgewater, £515 to C. K. Mainwaring, Esq., £174 to J. Dickin, Esq., £46 to Richard Wynn, Esq., and £15 to Mr. Benyon. The vicarial tithes were commuted for £430.

Ellesmere, formerly written Aelsmere, is a place of considerable antiquity, and derives it name from a fine sheet of water or mere on the east side of the town, which covers one hundred and sixteen acres. Leland describes the town in his day as having four streets, while Camden speaks of it, “as a small tract of rich fertile ground, together with a small castle, which King John settled on Llewellyn, Prince of North Wales, when he made up the match between him and Joan, his natural daughter.” The town now contains several respectable inns, and many good houses and shops, in all the different branches of the retail trade. The malting business is extensively carried on. Mr. John Frumston’s is one of the largest establishments in the county. The cultivation of barley being particularly attended to in the neighbouring country, causes the farmers usually to attend the market here, which is held on Tuesday. Fairs are held on the first Tuesday after February 2nd, third Tuesday in April, Whit Tuesday, first Tuesday in July, last Tuesday in August, and the third Tuesday in October and November for horses, cattle, sheep, and pigs. The castle of Ellesmere stood on an artificial mount, near to the church. At the present time there are no vestiges of it to be seen, the top of the mount being formed into a bowling green, which is kept in admirable order, and supported by the gentry and tradesmen of the town. From this eminence a most extensive and delightful panoramic view of the fertile plains of Shropshire is seen; the fine mere and the beautiful residence of C. K. Mainwaring, Esq., are charming objects in the vicinity. History is silent as to the time and by whom the castle was built. In the 6th of King John, the king gave the castle and manor of Ellesmere in marriage with his daughter Joan to Llewellyn, Prince of North Wales; in the 10th of that reign Bartholomew Turve, the governor, he having turned his arms against the English, was commanded upon his allegiance to put the place into the possession of William, Earl of Shrewsbury, the king’s natural brother, and Thomas de Edginton. In the 4th of Henry III., Roger L’Estrange held this castle, and it continued to his successors for a long period. In the 25th of Henry III., David, son of Llewellyn, late Prince of Wales, by his charter, surrendered up Ellesmere and Englefend to the crown of England, and after that we hear no more of its being in the hands of the Welsh. This being a frontier town and of some importance to the marches, and consequently not to be left in the power of the Prince of Wales. The continued skirmishes between the English and the Welsh, made the tenure of the latter very uncertain; and though King Henry II. and King John, being embroiled in foreign wars, gave the town and castle in dower, the first with his sister and the latter with his daughter, in order to conciliate the ancient animosities of both people; yet upon the least appearance of a rupture those kings might and did resume at pleasure, or gave what recompense they thought fit upon the seizure, and such as the Prince of Wales holding upon their good behaviour were glad to receive. On the 12th of Edward II., Roger L. Estrange, with the king’s approbation, granted several parcels of land, part of the demesnes of the manor, to several persons in fee, at which time the wastes and the commons of the manor were enclosed, and converted into freeholds. Two years after Oliver de Ingeham, who adhered so firmly to the king, upon the insurrection of the Earl of Lancaster and other lords, was governor of this castle. In the following reign a writ was issued, to inquire concerning the encroachments made by the tenants of the neighbouring manors, and to settle the boundaries, which being performed, the king gave the castle and manor of Ellesmere to Eubule L. Estrange, a younger son of the baron of Knockin. In the reign of Elizabeth we find Thomas Egerton, an ancient lawyer, created Baron Ellesmere; in the 23rd of Elizabeth he was made Solicitor-General, and afterwards Attorney-General, from which advancement he was soon after promoted to the Mastership of the Rolls and the office of Keeper of the Great Seal, which he held till that queen’s death. The Duke of Bridgewater is deserving of notice in this place, as having been possessed of large estates in Ellesmere and its neighbourhood, and as being distinguished for his public spirit, and for the vast plans he formed and executed for the improvement of his estates. He died in 1803, and the dukedom became extinct. On the death of the late Countess of Bridgewater the estates became vested in Viscount Alford, and he dying in the autumn of the year 1850, they are now vested in trustees.

The Church, dedicated to St. Mary, stands on a considerable elevation, overlooking the Mere, and presents a fine specimen of ecclesiastical architecture, for the most part in the decorative style. It is a spacious cruciform structure, comprising nave, chancel, side aisles, transepts, two side chapels, and a handsome square tower, adorned with pinnacles. The sacred edifice underwent a thorough restoration during the year 1849, when an entirely new nave and side aisles were built, at a cost of upwards of £8,000, from a design of George G. Scott, Esq., architect. The original nave bore marks of being the most ancient part of the building, and presented traces of the old Norman style. One of the pillars which stands near the pulpit on the north side of the western arch of the tower is the only part of the old nave remaining. On entering the church at either of the transept doors the spectator cannot fail to admire the bold span of the central arches on which the tower rests. The exterior of the eastern end remains as it was, the work of enlargement being confined to the western side. The roof is of open timber work of very high pitch, and the curve of the beams according so exactly with the form of the central arches, renders the vista of the church singularly fine. The same character of roof is extended over the side aisles. This part of the building receives the bulk of the congregation, and is neatly fitted up with open seats of oak, uniform in their character, with their facings relieved by tracery of various patterns, and affording about 900 appropriated sittings. The transepts have been provided with benches, thereby affording room for more than 300 sittings. On the north side of the western arch of the tower stands the pulpit, which is of stone, and richly carved. On the opposite side is the desk for reading prayers; and under the central part of the tower is placed the lectern, from which the lessons are read. The chancel has been thoroughly restored and altered, and the old screens which separated it from the side chapels renovated, and decorated with highly-finished tracery. On each side are stalls with carved finials, and otherwise ornamented, containing seats for the clergy and the choir. The paving is composed of encaustic tiles, in patterns which increase in richness as they approach the east. The altar stands on an elevation of five steps from the level of the entrance of the chancel, and is backed by a reredos of encaustic tiles. The three sedilia on the south side, which were in good preservation, have been restored to their original use. By means of a separate subscription a new organ, which cost 300 guineas, built by Holditch, of London, has been placed in the south chapel: the instrument is of great power and sweetness, and finely contributes to the musical part of the services. A new octagonal font of carved stone—an exact representation of the old one—has been placed in the south aisle. The south chapel, commonly called the Otely chapel, is distinguished by a curious oak roof, with carved panels, and though it cannot lay claim to a date earlier than the 16th century, yet it forms one of the most beautiful features in the old part of the church. This chapel contains a fine altar tomb, elaborately ornamented, on which are recumbent figures cut in marble, to the memory of Francis Kynaston and his wife, with the date 1790.

Other decorations, in various parts, are not wanting to help the effect and beauty of the restoration. Besides the rich carving in stone on the corbels and doors, and the wood tracery and highly-finished screen work, eighteen of the windows are richly ornamented with stained glass, by the liberality of various donors. The magnificent east window, the gift of Robert Clarke, Esq., late agent to the Bridgewater estates, was executed by Evans, of Shrewsbury, some twenty years ago. In the different compartments of the window are the four evangelists; the arms of David Prince of Wales; Llewellyn Prince of Wales; Sir Roger le Strange, who in the reign of Edward III., granted the second charter to the town; Lord Chancellor Egerton, &c., &c. The west window, a beautiful specimen of the decorated Gothic, is conceived and executed in the highest taste, and is illustrative of the four Christian graces of Faith, Hope, and Charity. It was the joint presentation of J. and G. Stanton, Esqs., in memory of Thomas Stanton, Esq., and was executed by Warrington of London. In the south transept is a fine window by Wailes of Newcastle, in memory of the late vicar, the Rev. J. A. Cotton, added by his surviving family. The three windows in the south aisle are by the same artist, and all gifts to the church. The first, representing the crucifixion of our Lord, was presented by the widow of the late Captain Fowler; the next, the gift of the Oswell family, is illustrative of our Saviour’s ascension into heaven; the third represents infant and adult baptism, and was presented by Colonel Salisbury. Some of the other windows are filled with ornamental glass, with a light pattern foliage upon each square, and scrolls containing texts of scripture running obliquely through them. One of the same sort, but more richly ornamented, is placed in the Oteley chapel, in memory of some of the faithful retainers of the household of C. K. Mainwaring, Esq. The church has thus been rendered one of the most beautiful ecclesiastical edifices in the county, by the liberality of the parishioners and other donors, under the skill and taste of its able architect. The extreme length of the church is 140 feet, and width 79 feet. The late Countess of Bridgewater gave the munificent sum of £3,300 towards the restorations; the Diocesan Society, £350; the Incorporated Society for Enlarging and Building Churches, £150; and £227. 2s. 6d. was collected after a sermon preached by the Bishop of Lichfield at the consecration of the church, on the 11th October, 1849. The living is a vicarage, valued in the King’s book at £17. 18s. l½d.; returned in the Clergy List at £386; in the patronage of the trustees of the late Earl of Bridgewater, and incumbency of the Rev. John David Day, M.A.; curate, Rev. John Peake, B.A. The churchyard was enlarged in 1850, by the addition of near half an acre of land on the west side of the church. The vicarage is pleasantly situated on elevated ground near the south side of the churchyard. Ellesmere is remarkable for the longevity of its inhabitants: in 1767 Jane Holt died, at the age of 108 years; and her husband died in 1757, aged 98 years. Among the various memorials in the churchyard is a remarkable epitaph to William Parks, who died at Lee, in 1746, aged 104 years:—

“Interr’d here, lies one hundred years and four;
No one knew scripture less and virtue more:
Peace his ambition, contentment was his wealth,
Honesty his pride,—his passions health,
The father’s duty, and the husband’s guide;
By nature good, the age’s wonder died.”

The Independent Chapel, situated in Chapel street, is a plain brick building, erected in 1815; it is provided with galleries, and has accommodation for about 500 worshippers. The Wesleyan Chapel is a small fabric in Watergate street, erected in the year 1844. There is also a Wesleyan Association Chapel, built in 1835, and a Primitive Methodist Chapel, built in 1840, both situated in Scotland street. The National School, which stands near the wharf, has an attendance of 160 scholars. The school room is spacious and lofty, and was built at the sole expense of the Countess of Bridgewater, who also gave the sum of £200 towards the support of the school. The Girls’ National School, situated on St. John’s hill, has an attendance of 85 children. The vicar, with a laudable desire to extend the advantages of education, established what is termed the Middle School, in 1848, on St. John’s Hill, where the youths are instructed in the higher branches of learning. The school is built of wood, and covered with thatch, and the interior lined with panelled oak, taken from the old church on its restoration. It was built at the sole expense of the vicar, whose zeal and persevering efforts in the education of youth are worthy of commendation. The Town Hall, a handsome building of freestone, was erected by the munificence of the late Countess of Bridgewater. The lower compartment of the structure is used for the sale of butter, poultry, &c., on the market days; above it is a spacious room for magisterial and other purposes, with suitable offices. The magistrates hold a petty sessions here on the first Monday in the month. The Countess of Bridgewater kindly granted the use of the large room to the Mechanics’ Institution, which was established in 1845. There are about forty members, adults paying 6s. per annum, and apprentices 4s. A library has been established, and gratuitous lectures are occasionally given by the clergy and gentlemen in the neighbourhood, on interesting and scientific subjects. G. H. Smith is the secretary. A Court Leet is held annually, when a coroner and two bailiffs are appointed. The Savings’ Bank is situated in Scotland street. It was established in 1817, and then held in a private house. The present structure was built in 1830, from the surplus funds of the bank, at a cost of £550. The capital stock of the bank on November 20th, 1849, was £29,562. 15s. 2¼d., at which time there were 752 separate accounts, of which eight were charitable societies, having deposits to the amount of £854. 14s. 10½d., and twelve friendly societies, the deposits of which amounted to £3,527. 15s. 2¼d. Of the total depositors there were 392 whose respective balances did not exceed £20; 180 above £20 and not exceeding £50; 90 above that sum and not exceeding £100; 41 not exceeding £150; 21 not exceeding £200; and 8 above £200. Mr. William Lee is the actuary. Gas Works have been established in the town by a company of shareholders. The works are situated near the canal wharf. The commercial intercourse of Oswestry is facilitated by the Shropshire union canal, previously noticed. The township of Oswestry, in 1841, comprised 446 houses and 2,326 inhabitants.

The Ellesmere Union House is a spacious brick structure, pleasantly situated about a quarter of a mile from the church, on a gentle acclivity overlooking the Mere. It was built in 1792, and will accommodate 350 inmates. The average number in the house is usually about 150. The internal arrangements are well managed, and have a clean and orderly appearance. The union comprehends eighteen parishes, of which nine are in the county of Flint, and nine in Shropshire, embracing an area of 109 square miles. The parishes are Bettisfield, Bronington, Halghton, Hanmer, Iscoyd, Overton, Penley, Tybroughton, Willington, Baschurch, Ellesmere, Hadnal Ease, Hordley, Middle, Ness Great, Ness Little, Petton, and Welsh Hampton. The south-west wing is occupied by the males, and the north-east wing by the females. In the latter is the Chapel, which is neatly and appropriately fitted up, and set apart for divine worship. In this respect, we think the authorities of the Ellesmere union have set a laudable example, which might be followed by other unions; for the honest poor are scarcely put on a level with the felons of our prisons in chapel accommodation. There are twenty-three guardians appointed by the different parishes. Richard George Jebb, Esq., is chairman; Thomas Wood Lee, Esq., vice-chairman; Rev. George Walker, chaplain. The surgeons are:—Thomas Gwynn, for the house and town district; Thomas Mousley, for Hordley and Dudliston district; Edward Ellis Eyton, Welsh Hampton district; Charles Tomlinson, Hanmer district; John Ellis Eyton, Overton district; Mr. Broughton, Baschurch district; and Andrew M. Needham, for the Middle district. Clerk: Andrew Bickley. Relieving officers: John Wood Jones, Ellesmere district, and John Poycott, Hanmer district. Master: John Pembrey Pritchard. Matron: Sarah Pritchard. Schoolmaster: Edward Jones. Schoolmistress: Mary Pay.

Charities.—Edward Jeffereys, by his will, bearing date January 4th, 1687, devised a messuage and lands, in Osbaston, to the churchwardens and overseers of the parish of Oswestry and Ellesmere, upon trust, to dispose of two parts of the yearly profits for the relief of poor inhabitants of Ellesmere, 16s. 8d. at Christmas, and the rest on Good Friday; and 16s. 8d. of the yearly profits to be divided among the poor inhabitants of Maesbury, Moreton, and Crickett—6s. 8d. to the former, and 5s. each to the two latter townships. The property thus devised consists of two cottages and six closes, containing together 5a. 1r. 22p. It is let, from time to time, by the churchwardens of Ellesmere, and now produces a rental of £12. 2s.

The following benefactions were probably laid out in the purchase of the Whixall estate, as hereafter noticed:—£10 given by Jerome Hanmer, the interest to be applied in apprentice fees; £6 by Hugh Dod, for a distribution of bread in Hardwick and about the Perthy; £20 by William Thorowgood, for the instruction of poor children; £50 by John Lyth, for the use of the poor; £50 by Catherine Pennant, the interest to provide twelve blue coats for six poor men and six poor women; £20 by Catherine Wenlock, the interest to educate five boys; £10 by Thomas Pitchford, for the poor of Trench and Northwood; £5 by Catherine Higginson, for a distribution of bread in Ellesmere; £5 by Edward Teggin, for bread to be distributed in Hardwick; £7 by William Pearce, for charitable uses; £40 by John Powell, the interest to be given among poor inhabitants of Ellesmere and Colemere; £20 by Mrs. Powell, for the same purpose; £10 by William Pearce, for the benefit of the poor of Welsh Northwood; £10 by John Davies, for a distribution of bread every Sunday; £10 by John Higginson, for the good of the poor; £5 by Charles Mason, for charitable uses; £10 by Margaret Eddowes, the interest to be given away among the poor of Trench, Northwood, and Hampton’s Wood. These several gifts amount in the whole to the sum of £288. About the year 1733, the several charitable legacies left to the poor of the parish had for some time laid dead, with interest, when the churchwardens purchased an estate at Whixall, for the sum of £320, having borrowed £30 to make up that sum. The estate consists of seven closes in Whixall, containing 22a. 0r. 30p. There is also an allotment of peat ground on Whixall Moss, containing 1a. 2r. 25p. The premises are let at a yearly rent of £28, and after deducting the amount of any incidental expenses that may be incurred, is generally applied in the following manner, viz.:—£10 as a subscription to the National School; £2 to Dudleston School; £4 to Cockshut School; £3. 14s. 9d. for three gowns and three coats for old men and old women; 12s. to the poor of Colemere; 12s. to the poor of Northwood; 12s. to the poor of Trench; £1. 16s. for a distribution of bread; and the residue is distributed by the vicar and the churchwardens in small sums among the most necessitous poor.

William Wenlock, by will, 1691, charged his tenement, with its appurtenances, in Northop, in the county of Flint, with the payment of £6 per annum, to buy yearly good books, and particularly Bibles, the Whole Duty of Man, and other books of practical divinity, to be distributed in the parish of Northop and Ellesmere—£3 thereof to be expended for each parish. The £3 is annually received by the vicar of Ellesmere, and the amount is laid out in the purchase of Bibles, and other books published by the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge.

Jane Higginson, by will, 1707, gave to the poorest and most necessitous children of the parish of Ellesmere, the sum of £6, payable out of certain premises once in every five years—20s. thereof to be expended in clothing. The sum of £6 is received by the vicar once in five years, which is generally disposed of in buying different articles of clothing; but occasionally a portion has been paid for their schooling.

Ruth Davies left £10, the interest to be given in bread to the poor, every Sunday in Lent. This sum is secured, with other charity money hereafter mentioned, on the Ellesmere House of Industry. The yearly sum of 9s. is paid as interest, and given away in bread. John Higginson, in 1771, bequeathed £20 for the benefit of the poor. This sum is also secured on the House of Industry, and 18s. paid as the interest thereof.

Richard Oulton, by will, 1780, gave to the vicar and churchwardens of Ellesmere £100, to be placed out on good security, and the interest applied in buying coals for the use of poor decayed housekeepers. This sum of £100, with £10 belonging to Davis’s charity, £20 the legacy of John Higginson, and £20 left by the same person to the use of the organist of Ellesmere, making altogether £150, is secured by a bond, bearing date 13th October, 1795, given to the vicar and churchwardens by the directors of the Ellesmere House of Industry, which was established under an act passed 31st George III.

John Whittall, of East Greenwich, by will, 1798, bequeathed to the parish of Ellesmere £200 five per cent. annuities, the dividends to be paid by the churchwardens and overseers to ten poor housekeepers, on the 24th of December annually. In respect of this legacy there are now £210 new four per cents, standing in the names of certain trustees. The dividends, amounting to £8. 8s. per annum, are distributed by the vicar and overseers every 24th of December equally among ten poor housekeepers; no person being appointed two successive years.

Penelope Vaughan, who died in 1805, bequeathed to the churchwardens and overseers of the parish of Ellesmere £100, to be disposed of for the use of the poor of the said parish. The sum of £90, the produce of this legacy after the payment of the duty, was invested on the security of the Ellesmere House of Industry, the bond bearing date 7th January, 1808. The interest, amounting to £4. 1s., at four and a half per cent., is applied by the vicar, partly for the support of different schools, and partly distributed in small sums among the poor of the parish.Richard Wynn, Esq., who died in 1823, bequeathed £100 to the vicar and church wardens of Ellesmere, upon trust, to place out the same, and pay the interest, on St. Thomas’s day yearly, to poor widows and widowers resident in the township of Crickett, Hardwick, and Upper and Lower Ridge, in such proportions as the owner, for the time being, of the testator’s mansion at Crickett should think fit. The sum of £90, received in respect of this legacy (£10 being deducted for duty), is placed in the Savings’ Bank at Ellesmere.

Lady Bridgewater bequeathed £200 for the support of the National School at Ellesmere

Post Office, Scotland street; Andrew Bickley, postmaster. Letters arrive at fifty eight minutes past six in the morning, and are despatched at six o’clock in the evening.

Antley John, boot & shoemaker, Birch lane

Antley Thos., boot & shoemaker, St. John’s hl

Astley Mr. James Lancaster, Sparbridge

Atcherley Richard, linen & woollen draper, Cross street

Badger John, assistant overseer, Willow st

Bailey Thos., supervisor of inland revenue, Sparbridge

Barlow Edward, ironmonger and brazier, and tin plate worker, Cross street

Barlow John, grocer, tea dealer, and cheese factor, Cross street

Bate Edward, corn miller, Mere side

Baugh Ann, hair dresser, High street

Baugh Edward, bookseller, printer, and stationer, Stamp Office; agent to the Sun Fire Office, and depÔt of the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge, Cross street

Becket William, saddler & harness maker, Cross street

Bennett John, boot & shoemaker, Watergate street

Bickley Andrew, post master, and registrar of births, deaths, and marriages for the Ellesmere district, Scotland street

Bickley Robert, vict., White Hart, Birch ln

Birch Miss Amelia, Scotland street

Birch Eliza, boarding school, Woodbine Cottage

Birds Rev. David, Church street

Blackburne Edward, Esq., solicitor, clerk to the magistrates, deputy superintendent registrar, commissioner for taking deeds of acknowledgements of married women, and agent to Crown Life and Law Fire Offices, Town Hall; residence, Trimpley

Blackburne Mrs. Jane, Trimpley

Boyling John, shoemaker, Charlotte row

Brookfield John, slater, St. John’s hill

Brotheridge Charles, grocer & tea dealer, Cross street

Burrows Rev. Samuel Holinshead, Church st

Butler John, currier and leather cutter, Watergate street

Butter John, shopkeeper, Sparbridge

Butter Robert, farmer and vict., Bull & Dog, Scotland street

Chandler Charles, Esq., solicitor, and agent to Shropshire and North Wales Fire Office, The Retreat

Clay Edward, butcher, Charlotte row

Clay John, blacksmith and vict., Cross Keys Church street

Clay John, butcher, Cross street

Coffin Mr. Arthur, Watergate street

Coffin Thomas, ironmonger, cutler, and locksmith, Scotland street

Colemere Ann, provision dealer and baker, Cross street and St. John’s hill

Colemere John, parish clerk, St. John’s hill

Cooke Charles, grocer, tea dealer, and maltster, Watergate street

Cooley Charles E., land agent, and agent to Salop Fire Office, Canal wharf

Cooley William Wilson, land surveyor, Canal wharf

Cotton William Aldrich, Esq., St. John’s hill

Copnall Richard, butcher, Church street

Copnall Thomas, vict., Dolphin Inn, Church street

Cross William, watch and clock maker, Cross street

Cumpstone Joshua, county police officer, St. John’s hill

Cumpstone Susannah, school teacher, St. John’s hill

Davenport Richard, boot and shoemaker, Scotland street

Davies David, blacksmith, Cross street

Davies Edward, builder and wood bailiff to Viscount Alford, Canal wharf

Davies Martha, vict., Canal Tavern, Canal wharf

Davies Mary, nail manufacturer and vict., George and Dragon, St. John’s hill

Davies Mary, school teacher, St. John’s hill

Davies Richard, hater and confectioner, Swine Market street

Davies Thomas, linen and woollen draper and silk mercer, corner of High street

Davies Thomas, tailor, Scotland street

Davies Thomas, whitesmith and blacksmith, Scotland street

Davies William, tailor, Chapel street

Day Rev. John David, M.A., vicar, The Vicarage

Deighton Mrs. Jane, Church street

Dymock Mrs. Mary, The Mount

Dymock Robert Middleton, Esq., solicitor, The Mount

Edge Rev. George (Independent), Scotland st

Edge William, wheelwright, Birch lane

Edwards Mr. Edward, Trimpley

Edwards Mr. Edward, Scotland street

Edwards John, vict., Bull’s Head Inn, Cross street

Edwards Miss Mary, Church street

Edwards Mary, boarding school, Scotland st

Ellis Thomas, plumber, painter, and glazier, Cross street

Evans Thomas, hair dresser, St. John’s hill

Evans William, blacksmith, Willow street

Everett Simon, hair dresser, Swine Market st

Fallowes Mrs. Mary, Church street

Freeman Edward, cooper, Watergate street

Furmston John, maltster and cheese factor, Scotland street

Furmston Mrs. Sarah, Trimpley

Gibbons Mr. John Gibbons Parry, High st

Gough Ann and Mary, boarding school, St John’s hill

Gough William, saddler and harness maker, High street

Gwynn Thomas, surgeon, St. John’s hill

Haley Mary Ann, milliner, Cross street

Hampson John, linen and woollen draper and maltster, Cross street; residence, Trimpley

Hampson Thomas, veterinary surgeon, Sparbridge

Hampson Thomas, spirit vaults, Cross street

Hanley Thomas, pump maker, Church st

Harris James, baker & confec., Church st

Harrison Samuel, baker, confectioner, and shopkeeper, Scotland street

Hawkins, Mr. William, Willow street

Hewitt John, linen and woollen draper and maltster, Cross street

Higginson Sarah & Elizabeth, dressmakers, Watergate street

Hollis William, boot and shoemaker, Watergate street

Howell Margaret, bonnet maker, Watergate street

Howell Rowland, plasterer & slater, Chapel st

Hughes Mrs. Mary, Watergate street

Humphreys Richard, tailor, Watergate street

James Robert, shoemaker, Sandy lane

James Thomas, Esq., Higher Grange

Jenks Edward, bricklayer, Scotland street

Jenks Joseph, builder & vict., spirit vaults, Cross street

Jenkins Edward and Son, auctioneers and valuers, Willow street

Jones Anna Maria, berlin wool dealer, Scotland street

Jones Edward, vict., Black Lion Inn, Scotland street

Jones Edward schoolmaster, Union House

Jones Elizabeth dressmaker, Scotland street

Jones James, butcher, Cross street

Jones James, tailor, Scotland road

Jones John, coal merchant, Canal wharf; residence, Scotland street

Jones John, grocer and tea dealer, confectioner and baker, Scotland street

Jones John, cooper, Watergate street

Jones John, gardener and seedsman, Swine Market street

Jones John Wood, relieving officer for Ellesmere district, Watergate street

Jones Jonathan, schoolmaster, St. John’s hl

Jones Robert, vict., Talbot Inn, Sparbridge

Lacy George, boot & shoemaker, Sparbridge

Langford John Davies, Esq., Chapel street

Lea John, maltster, Elston Cottage

Lea Samuel, grocer and tea dealer, chemist and druggist and hop merchant, Scotland street, and tallow chandler, Canal wharf

Lee Helen, milliner and dressmaker, Scotland street

Lee William, saddler and harness maker, High street

Lee William, actuary at Saving’s Bank, Scotland street

Lloyd Edward, plumber, painter, & glazier, St. John’s hill

Lloyd Edward, artist, Watergate street

Lloyd Mrs. Mary, Trimpley

Lloyd Thomas, plumber, painter, & glazier, Watergate street

Lloyd Wm., plumber, painter, and glazier, St. John’s hill

Lovett Elizabeth, bonnet maker, Willow st

Lovett Samuel, tollgate contractor, Willow st

Lowe Samuel, chandler, High street

Lowe Samuel, butcher, Church street

Lowe Thomas, Esq., Church street

Maddocks Charles, vict., White Lion, Swine Market street

Marsh John, vict., Golden Lion, Watergate st

Menlove Joshua Lewis, tanner, Church st

Menlove Miss Sarah, Trimpley

Menlove William Edward, Esq., solicitor, Church street

Morgan Samuel, butcher, Watergate street

Morrall Robert, Esq., solicitor, superintendent registrar, and recorder of Viscount Alford’s Court Leet; office, Town Hall

Morris Edward, maltster, Trimpley

Morris Peter, provision dealer, and depot for British and Foreign Bible Society, High street

Morris William, boot & shoe maker, Cross st

Mousley Thomas, surgeon, Chapel street

Oswell Mrs. Mary Dorothy, Scotland street

Oswell Thomas Stephen, Esq., Scotland st

Paddock William, wine merchant and vict., Bridgewater Arms, High street

Parry John, ropemaker and vict., Unicorn Inn, Cross street

Parry Thomas, grocer, tea dealer, baker, and confectioner, Cross street

Parry William, grocer, tea dealer, ironmonger and nail manufacturer, High street

Pay William, vict., Red Lion Inn, Church st

Peake Rev. John, B.A., curate, Sparbridge

Pearce Charles, bookkeeper to Shropshire union railway and canal company; office, Canal wharf

Pearce Richard, maltster, Sparbridge

Pearce Thomas, timber merchant and wheelwright, Swine Market street

Pemberton Richard, hatter, St. John’s hill

Perkins John, painter, Willow street

Phillips William, butcher, Scotland street

Platt Frederick, tailor, Willow street

Ponton James Batt, Ellesmere Academy, Willow street

Povey Francis, grocer & tea dealer, druggist, ironmonger, and seed and hop merchant, High street

Povey Thomas, grocer and tea dealer, ironmonger, brazier, and tin plate worker, glass dealer, and nail manufacturer, Market place, and spirit Vaults, Scotland street

Povey Thomas, jun., linen and woollen draper and silk mercer, Scotland street

Povey William, coal, lime, slate, and brick agent, Market place

Powell Richard, boot and shoe maker, Birch lane

Price Elizabeth, shopkeeper, Charlotte row

Price Mrs. Hannah, Trimpley

Pritchard John Pembrey, master of Ellesmere union, The Union House

Pritchard Peter, Esq., solicitor, and clerk to commissioners of property and assessed taxes, agent to Farmers’ Royal Insurance Office, and solicitor to Ellesmere union, Chapel street

Provis William, Alexander, Esq., The Grange

Ralphs James, vict., Eagle Inn, Birch lane

Ralphs Edward, bricklayer, bird preserver, and vict., Bricklayers’ Arms, Scotland st

Randles Joseph, inland revenue officer, Sparbridge

Randles Mary, Elizabeth, and Maria, school teachers, Sparbridge

Reay Maria, ladies boarding school, Scotland street

Reynolds Mark, tailor, Watergate street

Roberts Ann, milliner and dress maker, Swine Market street

Roberts Ann, bonnet maker, Scotland street

Roberts John, tailor, Scotland street

Roberts Robert, earthenware dealer, Scotland street

Roberts Robert, tailor, Scotland street

Roberts William, grocer, tea dealer, and linen and woollen draper and silk mercer, High street

Robinson John, blacksmith and earthenware dealer, Scotland street

Rodenhurst Thomas, tailor, St. John’s hill

Rodenhurst William, maltster, Cross street

Rowland John, cooper, Scotland street

Rowland John jun., cooper, Scotland st

Rowland Richard, inland revenue officer, Church street

Salter George, Esq., solicitor, a commissioner for taking deeds of acknowledgments of married women, Willow street; residence, Prynallt

Scott Mr. William, Willow street

Sheraton Harry, land agent to Viscount Alford, Church street

Sheraton Mrs. Jane, Church street

Shuker Mrs. Catherine, Scotland street

Stanton John, Esq., The Hollies

Stant Richard, vict., Back’s Head, Watergate street

Stokes William, schoolmaster, Chapel street

Stoker John, vict., Three Tuns, St. John’s hl

Thomas Mary, dressmaker, Watergate street

Thompson Edward, cabinet maker and upholsterer, Watergate street

Thompson Henry, maltster, Watergate street

Thompson Robert, tailor, Church street

Thompson Thomas, bookseller, printer, and stationer, and agent to Royal Exchange Fire and Life Office, High street

Tilston John, maltster, Church street

Tomkin’s John, vict., New Inn, Trimpley

Towler Samuel, plumber, painter & glazier, and brazier and tin plate worker, High st

Townsend Daniel, inland revenue officer, Sparbridge

Turner George, boot and shoemaker, High st

Turner Wm., boot & shoemaker, Birch lane

Varley Elizabeth, bonnet maker, Scotland st

Wace Charles Rd., Esq., solicitor, Cross st

Walter Rev. George, M.A., Trimpley

Watson James Eyton, surgeon, High street

Wellings Mary, shoemaker, Chapel street

White Captain John, Watergate street

Whitechurch and Ellesmere Banking Co., High street, (open on Tuesdays), John Lowe, manager

Wilkinson Jones, vict., Swan Inn, Cross st

Williams Mr. George, Scotland street

Williams John, tailor and woollen draper, Cross street

Wilson Elizabeth, school mistress, Willow st

Windsor George, maltster, Sparbridge

Worrall Mark, gardener & seed dealer, Cross street

Wright Henry Joho, currier and leather cutter, Church street

Young John, canal inspector, Canal Office.

Academies.

Those with * affixed are Boarding Schools.

* Birch Eliza, Woodbine cottage

Cumpstone Susannah, St. John’s hill

Davies Mary (National), St. John’s hill

* Edwards Mary, Scotland st

* Gough Ann and Mary, St. John’s hill

Grange Elizabeth, Chapel st.

Jones Jonathan, St. John’s hill

* Ponton James Batt, Willow street

Randles Mary Elizabeth and Maria, Sparbridge

* Reay Maria, Scotland street

Stokes William, Chapel street

Wilson Elizabeth, Willow st

Attorneys.

Blackburne Edward (and clerk to magistrates), Town hall

Chandler Charles, The Retreat

Dymock Robert Middleton, The Mount

Menlove William, Church st.

Morrall Robert (and superintendent registrar), Town hall

Pritchard Peter, Chapel st.

Salter George, Willow street

Wace Charles Richard, Cross street

Auctioneers.

Jenkins Edward and Son, Willow street

Bakers and Flour Dealers.

Colemere Ann, Cross street and St. John’s hill

Davies Richard, Swine market street

Harris James, Church street

Harrison Samuel, Scotland street

Jones John, Scotland street

Morris Peter, High street

Parry Thomas, Cross street

Banks.

Shrewsbury Old Bank, High street; open on Tuesdays; draw on Robarts, Curtis, and Company, London

Savings’ Bank, Scotland street; open on Tuesdays; William Lee, actuary

Whitchurch and Ellesmere Banking Company, High street; open on Tuesdays; draw on the Union Bank, London; John Lowe, manager

Blacksmiths.

Clay John, Church street

Davies David, Cross street

Davies Thomas (and whitesmith), Scotland street

Evans William, Willow street

Robinson John, Scotland st.

Booksellers, Printers, Bookbinders, and Stationers.

Baugh Edward (and stamp office), Cross street

Thompson Thomas, High street

Boot and Shoe Makers.

Antley John, Birch lane

Antley Thomas, St. John’s hill

Bennett John, Watergate st.

Boylin John, Charlotte row

Davenport Richard, Scotland street

Hollis William, Watergate st.

James Robert, Sandy lane

Lacy George, Sparbridge

Morris William, Cross street

Powell Richard, Birch lane

Turner George, High street

Turner William, Birch lane

Wellings William, Chapel st.

Braziers and Tin Plate Workers.

Barlow Edward, Cross street

Povey Thomas, sen., Scotland street

Fowler Samuel, High street

Builders.

Davies Edward (to Viscount Alford), Canal wharf

Jenks Joseph, Cross street

Bricklayers.

Jenks Edward, Scotland st.

Jenks Joseph, Cross street

Ralphs Edward, Scotland st.

Ralphs William, St. John’s hill

Butchers.

Clay Edward, Charlotte row

Clay John, Cross street

Copnall Richard, Cross street

Jones James, Cross street

Lowe Samuel, Church street

Morgan Samuel, Watergate street

Phillips William, Scotland street

Cabinet Maker and Upholsterer.

Thompson Edward, Watergate street

Cheese Factors.

Barlow John, Cross street

Furmston John, Scotland st.

Chemist and Druggist.

Lea Samuel, Scotland street

Coal Merchants.

Jones John, Canal wharf

Povey William, Marketplace

Confectioners.

Barlow John, Cross street

Davies Rich., Swine market

Harris James, Church street

Harrison Samuel, Scotland street

Jones John, Scotland street

Parry Thomas, Cross street

Coopers.

Freeman Edward, Watergate street

Jones John, Watergate street

Rowland John, Scotland st.

Rowland Jn., Jnr., Scotland st

Corn Miller.

Bate Edward, Mere side

Curriers and Leather Cutters.

Butler John, Watergate street

Wright Henry John, Church street

Cutler and Locksmith.

Coffin Thomas, Scotland st.

Fire and Life Office Agents.

Crown, Edward Blackburne, Town hall

Eagle, Charles Richard Wace, Cross street

Farmers’ Royal Insurance, Peter Pritchard, Chapel street

Law, Edward Blackburne, Town hall

Metropolitan, Edward Jenkins, Willow street

Mutual, Edward Barlow, Cross street

Royal Exchange, Thomas Thompson, High street

Salop, Charles E. Cooley, Canal wharf

Shropshire and North Wales, Charles Chandler, The Retreat

Sun, Edward Baugh, Cross street

Gardeners and Seedsmen.

Jones John, Swine market street

Worrall Martha, Cross street

China, Class, and Earthenware Dealers.

Povey Thomas (glass), Market place

Roberts Robert, Cross street

Robinson John, Scotland st.

Grocers and Tea Dealers.

Barlow John, Cross street

Brotheridge Charles, Cross street

Colemere Ann, Cross street

Cooke Charles, Watergate st.

Jones John, Scotland street

Lea Samuel, Scotland street

Morris Peter, High street

Parry Thomas, Cross street

Parry William, High street

Povey Francis, High street

Povey Thomas, Market place

Roberts William & company, High street

Hair Dressers.

Baugh Ann, High street

Evans Thomas, St. John’s hill

Everett Simeon, Swine market street

Hatter.

(See also Linendrapers and Hatters.)

Pemberton Richard, St. John’s hill

Hop and Seed Dealers.

Cooke Charles, Watergate st

Lea Samuel, Scotland street

Povey Francis, High street

Povey Thomas, Market place

Hotels, Inns, and Taverns.

Black Lion, Edward Jones, Scotland street

Bricklayers’ Arms, Edward Ralphs, Scotland street

Bridgewater Arms (excise office and posting house), William Paddock, High street

Buck’s Head, Richard Stant, Watergate street

Bull and Dog, Robert Butter, Scotland street

Bull’s Head, John Edwards, Cross street

Canal Tavern, Martha Davies, Canal wharf

Cross Keys, John Clay, Church street

Dolphin, Thomas Copnall, Church street

Eagles, James Ralphes, Birch lane

George and Dragon, Mary Davies, St. John’s hill

Golden Lion, John Marsh, Watergate street

New Inn, John Tomkin, Trimpley

Red Lion, William Pay, Church street

Swan, Jonas Wilkinson, Cross street

Talbot, Robert Jones, Sparbridge

Three Tuns, John Stocker, St. John’s hill

Unicorn, John Parry, Cross street

White Hart, Robert Bickley, Birch lane

White Lion, Charles Maddocks, Swine market st.

Wine and Spirit Vaults, Joseph Jenks, Cross street

Ironmongers.

Barlow Edward, Cross street

Coffin Thomas (and cutler and locksmith), Scotland street

Parry William, High street

Povey Francis, High street

Povey Thomas, Market place

Linen and Woollen Drapers and Hatters.

Atcherley Richard, Cross st.

Davies Thomas, High street

Hewitt and Hampson, Cross street

Povey Thomas, jun., Scotland street

Roberts William and Co., High street

Milliners and Dress Makers.

Haley Mary Ann, Cross st.

Higginson Sarah and Elizabeth, Cross street

Jones Elizabeth, Scotland street

Lee Helen, Scotland street

Roberts Ann, Swine market street

Thomas Mary, Watergate st.

Maltsters.

Cooke Charles, Watergate st.

Furmston John, Scotland st.

Hewitt and Hampson, Cross street

Lea John, Elson cottage

Morris Edward, Trimpley

Pearce Richard, Sparbridge

Rodenhurst William, Cross street

Thompson Henry, Watergate street

Tilston John, Church street

Windsor George, Sparbridge

Nail Makers.

Davies Mary, St. John’s hill

Parry William, High street

Povey Thomas, Marketplace

Plumbers, Glaziers, and Painters.

Ellis Thomas, Cross street

Lloyd Edward, St. John’s hill

Lloyd Thomas, Watergate street

Lloyd William, St. John’s hill

Perkins John (painter), Willow street

Towler Samuel, High street

Plasterers and Slaters.

Brookfield John, St. John’s hill

Howell Rowland, Chapel st.

Howell William, Church st.

Rope and Twine Maker.

Parry John, Cross street

Saddlers & Harness Makers.

Beckett William, Cross street

Gough William, High street

Lee William, High street

Shopkeepers and Dealers in Groceries and Sundries.

Butter John, Sparbridge

Harrison Samuel, Scotland street

Jones John, Scotland street

Price Elizabeth, Charlotte row

Wright, Henry John, Church street

Spirit Vaults.

Hampson Thomas, Cross st.

Jenks Joseph, Cross street

Povey Thomas, Scotland st.

Straw Bonnet Makers.

Howell Margaret, Watergate street

Lovett Elizabeth, Willow st.

Roberts Ann, Scotland street

Varley Elizabeth, Scotland street

Surgeons.

Gwynn Thomas, St. John’s hill

Mousley Thomas, Chapel st.

Watson James Eyton, High street

Surveyor.

Cooley William Wilson, Canal wharf

Tailors.

Davies Thomas, Scotland st.

Davies William, Chapel st.

Humphreys Richard, Watergate street

Jones James, Scotland street

Platt Frederick, Willow street

Reynolds Mark, Watergate street

Roberts John, Scotland st.

Roberts Robert, Scotland st.

Roberts William, Swine market street

Rodenhurst Thomas, St. John’s hill

Thompson Robert, Church street

Williams John, Cross street

Tallow Chandlers.

Lea Samuel, Canal wharf

Lowe Samuel, High street

Tanner.

Menlove Joshua Lewis, Church street

Veterinary Surgeon.

Hampson Thomas, Sparbridge

Watch & Clock Maker.

Cross William, Cross street

Wheelwrights.

Edge William, Birch lane

Pearce Thomas (and timber merchant), Swine market street

Omnibuses.

To Wrexham & Chester, from the Red Lion Inn, at 7 o’clock in the morning, returning at 8 in the evening.

To Ruabon, from the White Lion Inn, at half-past 6 in the morning, returning at 7 o’clock in the evening.

To Whittington Station, from the White Lion Inn, at 8 o’clock in the morning and 6 in the evening.

Carriers.

Shropshire Union Railway and Canal Company, general carriers to all parts of the kingdom; Charles Pearce, agent, Canal wharf

BIRCH AND LYTHE

is a small township, nearly a mile S.E. from Ellesmere, comprising 652a. 2r. 27p. of land, and in 1841 had eleven houses and 65 inhabitants. The township contains some good land, has an undulating surface, and is intersected by the Shropshire Union Canal, on the banks of which are a commodious residence and offices erected by the Canal Company. The landowners are the trustees of the Earl of Bridgewater and Richard George Jebb, Esq. The latter gentleman resides at a neat mansion, pleasantly situated and beautified with pleasure grounds, called The Lythe. Birch Hall is a good farm house, with commodious out-buildings, of modern construction.

The principal residents in Birch and Lythe are Richard George Jebb, Esq., The Lythe; William Shingler, farmer, Birch Hall; William Whalley, builder; and John Young, canal inspector, Canal-office.

COCKSHUT AND CROSEMERE

is a township and well-built village on the turnpike road from Ellesmere to Shrewsbury, four miles S.E. from the former town. The village contains some good residences, and is situated in an important and flourishing agricultural district, noted for producing fine cheese. The magistrates hold a petty sessions at the Court-room on the second Thursday in every month, except in the months of April and November, when they are held on the first Thursday in each month. The presiding magistrates are Sir John R. Kynaston, Bart., C. K. Mainwaring, Esq., Richard G. Jebb, Esq., and Wm. Sparling, Esq. The township contains 1,533a. 1r. 19p. of land, and in 1841 there were 93 houses and 434 inhabitants. The principal landowners are the trustees of the late Earl of Bridgewater; Mr. Samuel Lee; Mr. Thomas Austin and Mr. John Trevor are also owners. William Sparling, Esq., is lord of the manor. Fairs are held on May 3rd and the last Friday in October for the sale of cattle, sheep, and general merchandise, which are well attended. A Feast is held on the first Sunday after the 25th of October. The Church is a neat brick structure, erected in 1776, consisting of nave, chancel, and side aisles, with a square tower containing two bells and a clock. The interior has a neat appearance, and is fitted up with oak sittings. The chancel contains a beautiful altar piece, and a neat mural monument in memory of F. Lloyd, of Crosemere. The living is a perpetual curacy, in the patronage of the Vicar of Ellesmere, and enjoyed by the Rev. Samuel Hollinsend Burrows. The church was repaired and beautified in 1842. The Primitive Methodists have a neat chapel, ejected in 1847. Crosemere is a joint township with Cockshut, about three miles S.E. from Ellesmere, and is noted for the extent of its meres or pools. That of Crosemere covers a surface of 44 acres; and Sweat-mere is also of considerable extent; they are well stocked with different sorts of fish. Crosemere Hall is a good house, the residence and property of Mr. Samuel Lee. Wackley Lodge, a neat house, with commodious farm premises, is the residence of Richard Hampson.

Francis Lloyd, Esq., in 1691, gave a rent charge of 6s. per annum, issuing out of a croft in Frankton, to be distributed to the poor of Cockshut, Crosemere, and Frankton.

John Parker, in 1849, bequeathed £200, the interest to be expended in bread for the poor, by the minister and chapel wardens, at such times and in such quantities as they shall think fit.

Post Office.—At John Green’s. Letters arrive from Ellesmere at 9.10 A.M., and are despatched at 3.20 P.M.

Those marked * reside at Crosemere.

* Austin Thomas, farmer

* Belliss Richard, farmer

* Birch Edward, farmer

* Buckley William, farmer

Burlton William, shoemaker

Burroughs Thomas, farmer

Burroughs William, farmer

Butler James, maltster and beerhouse

* Cartwright Sml. wheelwright

Chester Jeffrey, vict., Lloyd’s Arms and Excise Office

Dickin Thomas, butcher

Evans John, saddle & harness maker

* Faulkes George, farmer

Faulkes Richard tailor

Green John, schoolmaster and parish clerk

Hampson Richard, farmer, Wackley Lodge

Haycocks Richard, blacksmith

Haycocks Thos., shoemaker

Haycocks William, farmer

Haycocks William, butcher and salesman

* Lee Samuel, farmer, Crosemere Hall

Lee Samuel, farmer

Maddocks Thos., bricklayer

Marsh Richard, farmer

Peevar John, shoemaker

Read John, shopkeeper and farmer

Read John, baker and shopkeeper

Read John, blacksmith

Shingler Thomas, farmer

Thomas Edward, wheelwright

* Thomas Edwd., shoemaker

Thompson James, tailor

Townsend Ann, victualler, Golden Lion

Townsend William, glazier

Trevor John, farmer & vict., Crown Inn

White Edward, farmer

Wynn John, farmer

COLEMERE

is a township, having a scattered population, three miles E.E. by S. from Ellesmere, containing 1,449a. 3r. 8p. of land, of which 1,248 acres are vested in the trustees of the late Earl of Bridgewater. The soil is generally fertile, and produces good crops of wheat and barley. There is a fine mere or pool of water, which covers a considerable surface, within the bounds of this township. At the census in 1841 there were 39 houses and 192 inhabitants.

The principal residents in this township are the following Farmers, viz.:—William Bate, Thomas Baty, Mary Birch, William Birch, John Clark, Jane Haycock, Richard Jones, and tailor, Thomas Jones, and corn miller, Thomas Thomas, William Wenlock, Hannah Wilkinson, and Catherine Young. Mary Butler, shopkeeper.

CRICKETT

is a small township, containing 339a. 1r. 12p. of fertile land, situated two miles and a quarter S.W. from the church of Ellesmere. Richard Wynn, Esq., is the proprietor of the whole township. In 1841 the township is returned as containing four houses and 30 inhabitants.Directory.—Richard Wynn, Esq., Old Crickett; Thomas John Rider, gentleman New Crickett.

DUDLESTON, OR DUDLISTON,

formerly written Duddlestone, is a township and chapelry in the parish of Ellesmere, four miles and a half N.W. from that town, and eight miles N.N.E. from Oswestry. The chapelry comprises the townships of Pentrecoed, Criftins, Chapel, Coadyrallt, and Dudleston, which together have an area of 4,640a. 1r. 24p. of land, mostly an undulating district, in some parts highly productive, and in other parts of an inferior quality. At the census of 1841 there were 950 houses and 1,207 inhabitants. The houses are in general scattered, and there are a considerable number of detached cottages, which in many instances were originally built upon the unenclosed land; and they have generally a small plot, or a few acres of land attached to each cottage. The principal landowners are Edward Morrall, Esq.; Lord Dungannon; George Harper, Esq.; James Edwards, Esq.; Rev. John Morrall; George Bennett, Esq.; John Owen, Esq.; Charles Brown Owen, Esq.; John Davies, Esq.; William Dickin, Esq.; Hon. William M. B. Nugent; Mr. Richard Edwards; Miss Benyon; Mr. Samuel Lea; Mr. Robert Grindley; Mrs. Elizabeth Jones; Miss Boydell; Mr. Dymock; Mr. John Vaughan; Miss Kynaston; Mr. James Munslow; and Miss Broom; besides whom are several other freeholders. Edward Morrall, Esq., is lord of the manor of Traian, which includes the parish of St. Martin’s and Dudleston chapelry. The Chapel is a neat structure, situated on elevated ground, built of rough stone, with hewn quoins and finishings. It consists of nave and side aisles, with an octagonal tower surmounted with short pinnacles. The body of the church was rebuilt in 1819, at a cost of £431. 13s., towards which the Society for Building and Enlarging Churches gave the sum of £200. It contains several neat mural monuments to the Boydells, of Kilhendre and Sodylt Hall, and the Morralls. The pulpit is of oak, curiously carved. At the west end of the church are three venerable yew trees, now much decayed. The living is a perpetual curacy, returned at £238, in the patronage of the Vicar of Ellesmere, and enjoyed by the Rev. David Birds. The Wesleyan Methodists and the Independent Methodists have each a small chapel on Dudleston Heath. The Association Methodists have a chapel at the Gravel Holes. There are two manufactories of bricks, tiles, and brown earthenware, in this township; and coal is got at the Flannag colliery, near to Coed-y-rallt. The pits, however, are within the bounds of St. Martin’s parish, but the underground works extend into this chapelry. The coal is of a superior quality, and the seams are from one foot to three feet in thickness.

About a quarter of a mile from the church, on the brow of a hill, overlooking a beautiful valley richly wooded, is Kilhendre, the residence of Captain Johnson. On the site of the present house, about fifty years ago, stood a very ancient mansion of chequered timber and brick work, the residence of the Edwards, who had been settled there for upwards of six centuries, and possessed considerable estates, in Dudleston, St. Martin’s, and the neighbouring townships. Here Colonel Jones, governor of Dublin, a very active and successful officer during the Commonwealth, for some time found a peaceful asylum after Cromwell’s death. In the centre of the house was a chamber, into which you descended by steps, and the passages to which were hidden by tapestry, evidently intended as a place of concealment in cases of sudden danger. The rooms were low, gloomy, and inconvenient, and a large hall occupied half the house. The house and demesnes were alienated in the year 1800, and soon after purchased by Mr. Boydell, in whose representative, Miss Boydell, they are now vested. Plas Yollen is a handsome and pleasantly situated dwelling, the residence of Robert Morrall, Esq. Plas-warren, an ancient house, the residence and property of Edward Morrall, Esq., who is also the owner of Plas-yollen. The Erway is a handsome house of modern construction, and the residence of Richard Ellerton, Esq. Sodylt Hall is a pleasantly situated house, with tasteful pleasure grounds, the residence of George Bennett, Esq. Shelbrook is a good house, the residence and property of John Jones, Esq. Pentre-coed is the residence and property of William Dickin, Esq. Dudleston Hall, a modern brick house, stands about 100 yards south from the site of the old hall, and is the residence and property of John Davies, Esq. At the northern extremity of the chapelry of Dudleston the county terminates in an elevated and precipitous rock, called Coed-y-rallt, which commands one of the most beautiful views of bold and romantic scenery that can well be conceived. The shelving precipice is clothed with a thriving plantation; and deep below wind the dark waters of the Dee, which separates this county from Wales. Other features in the scenery are the beautiful grounds and woods of Nant-y-lielan, the aqueducts of Chirk and Ponte-y-cysyllte, Chirk Castle, and Bryn-Kynalt, the beautiful seat of Lord Dungannon, all backed by the bold swells and the Alpine heights of the Welsh mountains.

Charities.—Frances Edwards, in 1719, conveyed certain premises in Dudleston, and directed them to be converted into a school and residence for a schoolmistress; to be kept in repair by such person as for the time being should be entitled to her capital messuage called Kilhendre; she also gave a rent charge of £10 per annum, issuing out of the great farm in Dudleston; £4. 10s. thereof to be paid to the schoolmistress, who should instruct twenty-four poor children; 10s. to buy books for the children; £3 to be paid in apprentice fees; 20s. for a distribution of bread every Sunday to five poor aged persons; and 20s., the residue thereof, to be expended in flannel, and given to the poor. The school is situated near the church, and occupied by a female, who teaches twenty-four poor children. The rent charge is expended in carrying out the donor’s intentions.

John Jones, by his will, dated 26th February, 1725, directed his executors to pay £100 to the incumbent, chapelwardens, and overseers, of the poor of Dudleston, to purchase land for the benefit of the poor. This gift, with £20 given by a servant, £10 by Roger Jennings, and £5 by Mr. Roberts, were laid out in 1740 in the purchase of 6a. 0r. 21p. of land. There is also an allotment of about a quarter of an acre set out on the enclosure of Dudleston common, the whole of which is let for £8. 12s. 6d., and distributed to the poor on St. Thomas’s day. The sum of £10, left by a servant man in 1735, and £10 left by another servant man in 1739, are charged upon the Sodylt estate, and the interest, 20s. per annum, is distributed with the above charity.

Thomas Kynaston, in 1761, left £200, the interest to be annually distributed to the poor. This money is invested on the security of the turnpike road from Wem to Bron-y-Garth.

William Challnor, in 1791, bequeathed £100, the interest to be applied in the relief of twenty of the poorest inhabitants of the chapelry. Elizabeth Challnor, by will, 1807, bequeathed £100 to augment the charity of her father-in-law, William Challnor. The first bequest is secured on the tolls of the road from Wem to Bron-y-Garth; and the latter is secured on the Ellesmere House of Industry. The interest, £9. 1s., is distributed on New Year’s day among the most necessitous poor.

Post Office.—At Mr. Richard Evan’s, the Griffin Inn. Letters are despatched to Chirk at two o’clock in the afternoon.

Bennett George, Esq., barrister, Sodylt Hall

Davies Edward, blacksmith, Criftins

Davies John, Esq., Dudleston Hall

Davies Richard, colliery proprietor, Flannag Colliery

Davies Thomas, wheelwright

Ellerton Richard, Esq., Erway

Evans Richard, victualler, Griffin Inn

Evans Joshua, wheelwright

Furmston Mrs. Emma, Criftins

Handley William, brick, tile, earthenware manufacturer, and victualler, The Grapes, Criftins

Humphreys Thomas, blacksmith

Jones John, Esq., Shelbrook

Jones John, shoemaker, Criftins

Jones Walter, shoemaker, Gravel Holes

Johnson Captain Robert, Kilhendre

Kilvert Joseph, shopkeeper and victualler, Fox Inn, Criftins

Morrall Edward, Esq., Plas-warren

Morrall Robert, Esq., solicitor, Plas-yollen

Newnes William, shoemaker

Owen Richard, farmer and victualler, Three Pigeons Inn

Phillips Robert, blacksmith

Preston Samuel, shoemaker, Gravel Holes

Spencer Thomas, brick, tile, flower pot, and black earthenware manufacturer

Winter Rev. John Bowyer, curate

FARMERS.

Belmont Charles, The Pant, Pentrecoed

Boote Joseph (executors of), Gadless

Corns Richard, Criftins

Darlington Thomas, Plas-Thomas, Coadyrallt

Davies John, Dudliston Hall

Dickin William, Pentrecoed

Edwards Richard, Rock House, Coadyrallt

Foulkes John, The Vron, Coadyrallt

Garner Benjamin, Coadyrallt

Gough Edward, Pentre-Morgan

Hampson Daniel, Coadyrallt

Hampson Jane, The Castle

Hampson John, Chapel

Hughes Arthur, Pentrecoed

Hughes James, and corn miller, Pant Mill

Hughes Thomas, and butcher, Chapel

Humphreys John, Chapel

Jones Elizabeth, New Hall, Chapel

Jones John, Shelbrook, Coadyrallt

Jones Roger, Cross lanes, Pentrecoed

Jones Richard, Dudleston Grove

Lee Richard, Cross lanes, Coadyrallt

Manford John, Coadyrallt

Manford Martha, Pit House

Murslow James, Chapel

Owen Charles Brown, Dee Field

Owen Thomas, Pentrecoed

Parry John, Sodylt Lodge

Pay Margaret, Chapel

Roberts Robert, Pentrecoed

Rogers Henry, Chapel

Rutter Ann, Pentrecoed

Shone Thomas, Coadyrallt

Steen John, Criftins

Strange David, Pentre-madoc

Teggin John, Coadyrallt

Thomas Joseph, Plas-warren

EASTWICK,

a small township, two miles and a half N.W. from Ellesmere, contains 503a. 2r. 33p. of land, and in 1841 had 18 houses and 87 inhabitants. The principal landowners in this township are the trustees of the late Earl of Bridgewater, Samuel Y. Kenyon, Esq., Mrs. Elizabeth Jones, Miss Kynaston, and Mrs. Broom. The chief residents in Eastwick are Edward Broughall, farmer, Gadless; Josiah Hughes, tailor; Mrs. Elizabeth Jones, farmer and tanner, Gadless; Joseph Strange, blacksmith; Francis Thomas, farmer; and Mrs. Mary Wall, farmer, Pleasant Grove.

ELSON AND GREENHILL,

a township, a mile and a half N.W. from Ellesmere, contains 547a. 0r. 18p. of land; the most considerable owner of which is Charles Kynaston Mainwaring, Esq. The other owners are Miss Kynaston, Mr. Joshua Lewis Menlove, Mr. John Furmston, and Mrs. Broom. This township has a scattered population; in 1841 there were 11 houses and 65 inhabitants.

Directory.—Daniel Boote, farmer, Elson; John Boote, farmer, Greenhill; John Lea, maltster, Elson Cottage; Joshua Lewis Menlove, farmer, land agent, and brick and tile maker, Elson; Thomas Williams, farmer, Greenhill, and Mrs. Ann Williams, Elson.

FRANKTON, OR ENGLISH FRANKTON,

is so called to distinguish it from Frankton, in Whittington parish, which is sometimes called Welsh Frankton. The village is pleasantly situated on high ground, four miles and a half south from Ellesmere, and in 1841 contained 41 houses and 199 inhabitants. The houses are in general straggling, and there are a considerable number of small cottages. The township contains 956a. 0r. 34p. of land; the principal owners of which are John Povey, Esq., Mrs. Jane Griffiths, Nicholson Robinson, Esq., and Mr. William Downes.

The principal residents are Mr. John Borne Oekley; William Downes, farmer, Frankton Grove; William Downes, jun., farmer; William Foulkes, farmer; Elias Puleston, farmer; Thomas Stanyer, farmer; Thomas Smith, blacksmith; and John Williams, wheelwright.

HAMPTON WOOD

is a small township, with 703a. 0r. 18p. of land, situated three miles from Ellesmere, and in 1841 had 37 houses and 175 inhabitants. The principal landowners are the trustees of the late Earl of Bridgewater, Lord Kenyon, C. K. Mainwaring, Esq., and Joshua Lewis Menlove, Esq. The resident farmers are William Boughey; Mary Boyling; Robert Jacks; James Price, and corn miller; Thomas Reeves; John Rodenhurst; and John Smith.

HARDWICK

is a township, containing 449a. 3r. 17p. of land, and in 1841 had 27 houses and 441 inhabitants. The whole township is the property of Sir John Roger Kynaston, Bart., who resides at Hardwick Hall, an elegant mansion, delightfully situated in a park, with a fine undulating surface, richly wooded with noble timber. The south front of the hall opens upon a terrace, ornamented with flowers, vases, and an open balustrade, which leads into the park. On the west side of the hall are the pleasure grounds and shrubberies, which contain some rare shrubs of remarkably fine growth; the arra-caxia imbricata is upwards of sixteen feet high, and one of the finest specimens in the country. The cedar deodora is also a beautiful specimen. There are upwards of thirty varieties of the pinus tribe planted in different parts of the grounds. Adjoining the west side of the hall, a new conservatory has just been completed, which is chiefly used as an orangery. The vineries adjoin the kitchen gardens, which cover about an acre and a half of land. About two hundred yards from the south front of the hall is a magnificent specimen of the cedar of Lebanon, which measures fourteen feet and a half in circumference. A portion of the top was broken off about three years ago with the weight of snow that fell upon it. Perthy Bank, or The Brow, consists of a public house and a few cottages, partly in this township and partly in Tetchill, situated on the brow of a hill, on the turnpike road leading from Ellesmere to Oswestry. Hardwick Cottage is a neat residence, pleasantly situated near the turnpike road, occupied by Lovett Ferrall, Esq.

Directory.—Sir John Roger Kynaston, Bart., Hardwick; Lovett Ferrall, Esq., Hardwick Cottage; John Cureton, farmer; Samuel Carsley, blacksmith; Edward Heyes, victualler, Green Man Inn, The Brow; Samuel Stockton, gamekeeper; Mrs. Martha Thomas; Richard Woolf, farmer, Old Hardwick.

KENWICK STOCKETT AND WHATTALL,

a township three miles south from Ellesmere, contains 874a. 3r. 29p. of land; the owners of which are the trustees of the late Earl of Bridgewater, Thomas Buckley Buckley Owen, Esq., and the Rev. William Thomas. In 1841 the township had nine houses and a population of 55 souls. The principal residents are Samuel Burrows, farmer; Richard Gough, farmer, Whattall; Thomas Furmston, farmer, Lower Kenwick; John Stoakes, farmer, Higher Kenwick; and Joseph Stoakes, farmer, The Springs.

KENWICKS PARK

is a small village and township, three miles and a quarter south from Ellesmere, having 1,054a. 3r. 26p. of land, which is the property of the trustees of the late Earl of Bridgewater. At the census in 1841 there were 22 houses and 120 inhabitants. The resident Farmers are Edward Colemere; William Gough, The Lodge; Thomas Hamson, Kenwick Park; Ann Harrison, Top House; Jane Harrison, Old Cast; Lazarus Harrison, Lower House; John Hassall; Thomas Jacks; John Reynolds; and James Williams.

HENWICKS WOOD

is a township, situated four miles south from Ellesmere, embracing 865a. 3r. 16p. of land; an undulating district, the high ground of which commands a most beautiful view of the fertile plains of Shropshire and of the mountainous district of Wales. In 1841 there were 23 houses and 137 inhabitants. The principal landowners are William Sparling, Esq.; Sir John Roger Kynaston, Bart.; Thomas Buckley Buckley Owen, Esq.; Mrs. Sutton; and Mr. Joseph Hignett.

The following are the chief resident Farmers, viz.:—Stephen Burrows, Edward Hayward, Sarah Nickson, John Shingler, and Edward Stoakes.

LEE

is a pleasant little village and township, a mile and a half south from Ellesmere, which contains 815a. 1r. 30p. of land, the whole of which is the property of Thomas Buckley Buckley Owen, Esq. This is a fine agricultural district; the land produces good crops of all kinds of grain, and many of the farms are of considerable extent The Old Hall, the residence of Mr. Thomas Lewis, is an antique structure of timber and plaster, with projecting gables, and has the date of 1594 on the front. One of the rooms is wainscotted with oak, and has the date of 1657 over the fire place. A fine old yew tree stands in front of the house.

The resident Farmers in Lee are Thomas Burrows; Thomas Gough; Thomas Hollis; Joseph Jones, John Lewis, John Price, and Richard Williams; Mr. John Lewis, Old Hall. John Morgan, blacksmith.

LINEAL

is a village and township, three miles S.E. from Ellesmere, which contains 1,897a. 3r. 3p. of land, of which 1,620 acres are vested in the trustees of the late Earl of Bridgewater. The township is intersected by the Shropshire Union Canal and the turnpike road from Ellesmere to Wem. There are lime works here which were formerly carried on to a very considerable extent, the canal affording facilities for sending that commodity to distant parts of the country. At the census of 1841 there were 44 houses in the township and 247 inhabitants.

Directory.—Andrew Bickley, farmer; Samuel Hignett Bickley, farmer; Isaac Birch, boot and shoemaker; Richard Bright, farmer; William Clay, engineer, blacksmith, and ironfounder; Mary Darlington, farmer; Francis Dickin, farmer; John Medeley, farmer; Hannah Mercer, victualler, New Inn, Hampton Bank; Robert Parry, farmer; Mary Peak, farmer and shopkeeper, Hampton Bank; William Rogers, farmer; John Wilkinson, victualler, Blue Dog; William Youd, farmer.

NEW MARTON,

a small village pleasantly situated four miles W. by S. from Ellesmere, is returned as having 21 houses and 106 inhabitants at the census of 1841; the landowners are the trustees of the late Earl of Bridgewater; the township contains 587a. 0r. 14p. of land, mostly an undulating surface, having a fertile soil, which produces good crops of grain. Dr. Thomas Bray, an eminent, learned, and pious divine of the seventeenth century, was born at Marton, in Shropshire, in 1656. He was educated at Oswestry Grammar School, and was the principal promoter of the Missionary Society denominated The Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts. Dr. Bray was instrumental in raising lending libraries in many parts of England and Wales, in connection with episcopal places of worship, out of which the neighbouring clergy might borrow the books they had occasion for, and where they might consult upon matters relating to their function and learning; similar libraries were also established in the American colonies for the use of the missionaries, which were subsequently secured to posterity by an act of parliament passed for that purpose in 1708. In the year 1712 the Dr. printed his “Martyrology, or Papal Usurpation,” in folio. This work consists of some choice and learned treatises of celebrated authors, which were grown very scarce, ranged and digested into a regular history. He proposed to compile a second volume, and had, at no small expense and pains, furnished himself with materials for it, but he was afterwards obliged to lay the prosecution of his design aside, and bequeathed by will his valuable collection of martyrological memoirs, both printed and manuscript, to Zion College. In the year 1726 he was employed in composing and printing his Directorium Missionarium, and his Primordia Bibliothecaria. About this time he also wrote a short account of Mr. Rawlet, the author of the Christian Monitor, and reprinted the life of Mr. Gilpin. Some of these were calculated for the use of missionaries, and in one of these he has endeavoured to show that civilizing the Indians must be the first step in any successful attempt for their conversion. As the furnishing the parochial clergy with the means of instruction would be an effectual method to promote Christian knowledge, so another expedient manifestly subservient to the same end would be, he thought, to imprint on the minds of those who are designed for the ministry, previously to their admission, a just sense of its various duties, and their great importance. With a view to this he reprinted the Ecclesiastes of Erasmus, a name of great authority in the republic of letters, and to whom the re-establishment of polite literature was principally owing. Dr. Bray was a frequent visitor of the prisons, the inmates of which always excited the highest degree of compassion in his breast, and to the temporal benefits which he munificently bestowed, he always subjoined spiritual comforts. He died on the 15th February, 1730, in the 73rd year of his age.

Directory.—John Bate, farmer and maltster; John Cooke, farmer; John Gabriel, wheelwright; Edward Lewis, maltster and shopkeeper; John Lewis, farmer; John Powell, blacksmith; William Williams, boot and shoemaker.

NEWNES

is a very small township on the turnpike road from Ellesmere to Oswestry, about a mile S.S. by W. from the former town. It contains 333a. 2r. 36p. of land, of which 310 acres are now vested in the trustees of the late Earl of Bridgewater. In 1841 there were six houses and 46 inhabitants. The resident farmers are Henry Pearce and James Thomas; Edward Lloyd, nurseryman. There is an erroneous tradition that the celebrated Whittington, Lord Mayor of London, was born at Newnes.

NORTHWOOD,

a village and township on the verge of the county, two and a half miles N. from Ellesmere, is separated from the county of Flint by a small stream, on the banks of which is a corn mill. The township is well wooded, has an undulating surface, and contains 1,321a. 3r. 5p. of land, the principal owners of which are the trustees of the late Earl of Bridgewater. Mr. Richard Evans and Mrs. Sarah Lindop are also proprietors. In 1841 there were 29 houses and 150 inhabitants. The resident farmers are John Cooke, Richard Evans, Mary Hassall, Sarah Lindop, Thomas Madeley, and Andrew Wycherley; Charles Reeves, corn miller. When our agent visited Northwood there were two farms unoccupied.

OTELEY, NEWTON, AND SPOONHILL,

a township with a scattered population, extending from half a mile to a mile and a half E. from Ellesmere, contains, 1,221a. 1r. 24p. of land, the whole of which is the property of Charles Kynaston Mainwaring, Esq., who resides at Oteley Park, an elegant mansion built of the Cafn free stone in 1827, and exhibiting a fine specimen of the florid English style of architecture, which prevailed during the reign of Henry VII. The mansion is most delightfully situated upon an elevated plot of ground, overlooking a magnificent sheet of water covering a surface of one hundred and sixty acres. In the front of the hall is one of the finest terraces in the country, it is surrounded with ornamental vases, filled with scarlet geraniums, which have a most beautiful appearance during the summer months, and give an additional charm to the fairy scene. The interior of the mansion is most superbly furnished, and contains an extensive and costly collection of antique, china, and curious ornaments of the most elaborate workmanship. There is a fine collection of family portraits, executed by the most celebrated Italian, Dutch, Flemish, and English masters. The library contains a fine collection of books, and is richly ornamented with carved oak. The entrance to the corridor is of stained glass, tracing the royal tribes of Wales, and the window of the hall traces the pedigree of the family: these are beautifully executed by Evans, of Shrewsbury. A little north from the hall is the billiard room, the interior of which is ornamented with Flemish tapestry. The shrubberies and pleasure grounds, which cover upwards of eighteen acres, are kept in the most admirable order, and beautified with rockeries, rustic bridges, and a very tastefully designed Swiss cottage. The grounds contain some fine shrubs, and the cyprus and the arbavitus, which are very numerous, exhibit the greatest luxuriance of growth. The park has a fine undulating surface, and is stocked with deer. This township at the census of 1841 contained 14 houses and 87 inhabitants.

Directory.—Charles Kynaston Mainwaring, Esq., Oteley Park; Robert Butter, farmer and maltster and vict., Dog Inn, Ellesmere; Edward Edwards, farmer, Crimps; George Foulkes, farmer and carpenter; Edward Groom, gardener to C. K. Mainwaring, Esq.; Elizabeth Price, farmer; Mary Whitfield, farmer; Thomas Whitfield, farmer, Spoonhill.

RIDGE HIGHER AND LOWER,

a township and village situated S.W. from Ellesmere, contains 1,625a. 2r. 13p. of land, the principal owners of which are the trustees of the late Earl of Bridgewater; Mr. Menlove and Mrs. Jones are also owners. At the census of 1841 there were 31 houses and 157 inhabitants. Higher Ridge is situated about three miles from Ellesmere, on elevated ground, which commands a most extensive and delightful view of the country. Lower Ridge, about a mile further from Ellesmere, consists of two good farms. The principal residents are Thomas Brayne, farmer, Higher Ridge; Edward Jones, farmer, Lower Ridge; John Matthews, farmer, Lower Ridge; Edward Price, farmer, Higher Ridge, and John Urion, farmer, Ridge.

STOCKS AND COPTIVINEY,

a small township two miles N.E. from Ellesmere, comprising 455a. 2r. 7p. of land, in 1841 is returned as having five houses and 48 inhabitants. The whole of the land is the property of Charles Kynaston Mainwaring, Esq. The principal residents are Ambrose Nixon, farmer, Stocks; George Rodenhurst, farmer, Stocks, and Thomas Whitfield, farmer, Coptiveney.

TETCHILL

is a township and village situated three miles S. from Ellesmere, which contains 1,735a. 0r. 20p. of land, the whole of which is the property of the trustees of the late Earl of Bridgewater, except one farm, the property of Sir John Roger Kynaston, Bart. In 1841 there were 63 houses and 333 inhabitants—the houses are for the most part scattered. George Salter, Esq., resides at a neat residence called Prynallt, near the western verge of the township; the house stands on high ground, and commands a fine view of the country. “This village is celebrated as the birth place of William Fromston, the Shropshire giant; he died at Tetchill, in 1795, aged 77 years; he is said to have been remarkably active for his age and surprising height; his coffin measured eight feet two inches inside.” The principal residents are Ann Boodle, farmer, Winstone; Edward Boylin, farmer; William Carsley, blacksmith; William Cooke, farmer, Tetchill Moor; William Cox, shoemaker; Elizabeth Davies, farmer; John Davies, maltster and tailor; Thomas Davies, maltster; Thomas Foulkes, farmer, Tetchill Moor; Thomas Harrison, wheelwright and shopkeeper; Samuel Higginson, tailor; Joseph Jones, farmer; Thomas Jones, tailor; Richard Lee, farmer, Onston; Henry Legh, farmer, The Buildings; Elizabeth Mathers, farmer, Tetchill Moor; William Morgan, shopkeeper and boot and shoe maker; William Price, farmer, The Wood; George Salter, Esq., solicitor, Prynallt; Wm. Sheraton, farmer, Broom Farm; Henry Townsend, farmer, Tetchill Moor.

TRENCH,

a township on the northern verge of the county, situated about two miles N.N. by W. from Ellesmere, contains 854a. 0r. 6p. of land, the principal owners of which are the trustees of the late Earl of Bridgewater; Charles Kynaston Mainwaring, Esq.; and Rev. John Phillips, are also proprietors. In 1841 the township contained 28 houses and a population of 65 souls. The resident farmers are Thomas Cross, John Evans, John Groom, William Higginson, William Nunnerley, William Paddock, and Thomas Pearce.

GREAT NESS

is a considerable parish and pleasantly situated village in the lower division of the Pimhill hundred, four miles S.W. from Baschurch, ten S.E. by S. from Oswestry, and seven and a half miles N.W. by N. from Shrewsbury. The parish embraces the townships of Alderton, Felton Butler, Great Ness, Hopton, Kinton, Nesscliffe, and Wilcott, which together contain 3,865a. 3r. 30p. of land, and in 1801 had 732 inhabitants, 1831, 850, and in 1841, 143 houses and a population of 876 souls. Rateable value, £4,431. 5s. 4d. The village of Great Ness contains several good houses, and is surrounded with an undulating district, which commands some fine views of great diversity and picturesque beauty. The township contains 856a. 3r. 37p. of land, and in 1841 there were 16 houses and 84 inhabitants. Rateable value, £1,198. 1s. 5½d. The principal landowners are the Earl of Bradford; George Edwards, Esq.; Henry Calveley Cotton; and Thomas Justice Bather, Esq. The former is lord of the manor. The soil is a mixture of sand and loam, producing good wheat and barley. The Church, dedicated to St. Andrew, is an ancient structure, consisting of nave, chancel, and side aisles, with a square tower, in which are three bells. It contains several neat tablets to the families of Perry, Prosser, Payne, and Gittins. The living is a vicarage, valued in the King’s book at £9, now returned at £345, in the patronage of the Lord Chancellor; incumbent, Rev. Henry Calveley Cotton. The vicarage is a neat residence a little west from the church. The vicarial tithes of Great Ness are commuted for £47. 10s. The Hall, the residence of George Edwards, Esq., is a handsome house of brick, in the Tudor style of architecture, rendered conspicuous by a tier of rooms with semi-octagonal projections. The grounds are tastefully laid out, and the park, though not extensive, is densely wooded. North-west from the hall are the lofty heights and plantations of Nesscliffe hills. This township is intersected by the Holyhead turnpike road.

Charities.—By indenture, dated 8th September, 1753, John Edwards, Esq. conveyed a plot of land called the Chapel Yard, at Nesscliffe, to the Rev. William Parry, then vicar of Great Ness, for the erection of a school and residence for the teacher. The following benefactions are stated to have been given towards the support of the school, viz., Sir Orlando Bridgeman, £20; Sir John Langham, £10; Mrs. Pridie, £20; the Rev. William Parry, £25; and Mrs. Parry, £25. This sum, amounting to £100, was in the hands of John Edwards, Esq., when the charity commissioners published their report, and he paid interest for it at the rate of five per cent. The master resides in a house built on the land, containing about an acre in the whole, and in consideration of the above emoluments is required to teach six poor children in reading, writing, and accounts, without any charge.

Samuel Shuker, by will bearing date June 18th, 1821, devised two leasehold estates, then let at a yearly rent of £148. 15s., to John Edwards, Esq., upon trust to sell the same, and to invest the proceeds of such sale in the public funds, and out of the first year’s dividends to improve the present school house, and afterwards to pay the dividends yearly, in promoting the views of the said school, by causing so many poor children of indigent parents, not exceeding the age of twelve years, nor under the age of six years, to be properly instructed in reading, writing, and the four first rules of arithmetic, and finding them in books, pens, ink, and paper; the proportions of such children to be admitted into the said school being two boys and one girl. The property above mentioned was sold by John Edwards, Esq., to whom the testator left the residue of his personal estate, not otherwise disposed of, the bequest to the charity being void under the statute of 9 George II., c. 36. The produce of the sale of the above estates was about £1,070. Mr. Edwards proposed settling this property ultimately upon the school, but retaining the disposal of the produce thereof for his life.

Margaret Dyos, by will 1729, bequeathed £10, and directed the proceeds to be distributed to the poor of Great Ness for the first three years, and the fourth year to the poor of Kinnerley, and so on in rotation from four years to four years. This gift and £5 in the hands of the parish officers was laid out in the purchase of a piece of land in Melverley, which now produces a yearly rent of £1. 10s.

William Phillip left a rent-charge of 5s. yearly, to be distributed among twenty poor housekeepers. The sum of 5s. is paid yearly to the churchwardens of Great Ness, as charged upon the Plough Inn, at Wellington, by Mr. Leeke, the owner of those premises.

Directory.—Thomas Justice Bather, Esq.; Rev. Henry Calverley Cotton; George Edwards, Esq., the Hall; James Jones, gentleman. Farmers: William Davies, grazier, William Hughes, Samuel Smith, John Sides, John Wildblood. Thomas Davies, butcher.

ALDERTON

is a small township one and a half mile from Great Ness, having one house, 13 inhabitants, and 196a. 3r. 10p. of land, with an undulating surface and light sandy soil. The Earl of Powis is lord of the manor, and sole proprietor. The tithes have been commuted, and £17. 15s. apportioned to the impropriator, and £7. 7s. 6d to the vicar of Great Ness. Alderton Hall is a neat brick residence, occupied by Mr. Thomas Jones. The farm buildings are extensive, and near to the hall is a pool of water of considerable extent. The rateable value of this township is £234.

FELTON BUTLER

is a pleasantly situated township, with a scattered population, one and a half miles S.W. by S. from Great Ness, having at the census of 1841 twelve houses and 65 inhabitants. It contains 534a. 3r. 3p. of land of a light sandy nature, about two-thirds of which is arable. Rateable value, £642. 18s. 9d. The Earl of Powis and Thomas Justice Bather, Esq., are the landowners. The former is lord of the manor. One half of the rectoral tithes are apportioned to the vicar of Great Ness, and the other moiety of £28. 17s. 6d. to the prebend of Holgate. The vicar receives £46. 15s. Mr. Thomas Harris resides at a very neat house, with grounds tastefully laid out. The farm premises are of considerable extent and conveniently arranged.

The principal residents are Thomas Harris, farmer and grazier; John Lewis, jun., farmer; Thomas Lewis, farmer; and Robert Jones, shoemaker.

HOPTON,

a township in Great Ness parish, near to the Holyhead turnpike road, contains 653a. 2r. 5p. of land, the soil of which is a mixture of peat and sand, upon which rye, turnips, and some little wheat are grown. There is some good pasture land below the cliffs. The village is divided into what may be considered Higher and Lower Hopton, and is pleasantly situated a mile and a quarter N.W. by N. from Great Ness, and eight and a half miles N.W. from Shrewsbury. To the north-east of the village are the Nesscliffe hills, which rise four hundred feet above the level of the village. In 1841 there were 38 houses and 179 inhabitants. Rateable value, £607. The Earl of Bradford is lord of the manor. The freeholders are Mr. Richard Minton; Mr. Samuel Minton; Thomas Justice Bather, Esq.; Mr. Richard Wildblood; the Earl of Bradford; Mr. Thos. Bather; Mrs. Haddy; Mr. John Rodgers; Miss Williams; Mr. James Canlin; Mr. Charles Lloyd; Mr. John Povey; Mr. William Payne; and Mr. James Jones. The rectoral tithes have been commuted for £81. 15s., and apportioned to Thomas I. Bather, Esq. The vicarial tithes are commuted for £32. There are stone quarries here, from which a fine red freestone is procured, in blocks of almost any dimensions. The Wesleyan Methodists have a neat stone chapel near the village.

The principal farmers are Thomas Clayton, Startlewood; Edward Davies; Samuel Minton; Richard Minton; and John Suckley. William Davies, butcher.

KINTON

is a village pleasantly situated two miles W. from Great Ness, commanding views of great strength and diversity; the township contains 1,163a. 0r. 3p. of land, the soil of which is sandy, upon a strong sub-soil, producing good wheat and barley. The Earl of Bradford is lord of the manor. The chief landowners are the Earl of Bradford, Mr. Richard Wildblood, Thomas Justice Bather, Esq., Mrs. Haddy, Miss Williams, Mr. Charles Lloyd, Mr. James Canlin, Mr. John Rodgers, Mr. William Payne, and others are also proprietors. At the census of 1841 there were 21 houses and 97 inhabitants. Rateable value, £1,115. 2s. 2d. There are several neat villa residences in the village. The Grove is a modern erection, the residence of Mr. Robert Suckley, and has conveniently-arranged farm premises attached. The Wolf’s Head Farm, the residence of Mrs. Mary Suckley, was formerly a noted public house, and is situated near to Knockin Heath, on the side of the Holyhead turnpike road. It was the rendezvous of thieves and vagabonds, and robberies were so frequently committed in this locality that the stout-hearted had a dread on passing this road.

Canlin Mrs. Maria

Canlin James, gentleman

Evans Edward, shoemaker

Gittins Thomas, blacksmith

Higginson William, grocer and provision dealer

Jones Richard, shoemaker

Lloyd Thomas, farmer

Massey James, farmer

Mansell Richard, farmer

Payne Mrs., gentlewoman

Suckley Mrs. Mary

Suckley Robert, farmer, The Grove

Taylor George, farmer

Wildblood Richard, farmer, The Hall

NESSCLIFFE

is a township in the parish of Great Ness, pleasantly situated on the Holyhead turnpike road, four and a half miles W. by S. from Baschurch, and eight miles N.W. from Shrewsbury. There are 28 houses and 189 inhabitants, and the township contains 86a. 5r. 13p. of land. Rateable value, £157. Thomas Justice Bather, Esq., George Edwards, and the Earl of Bradford, are the landowners; the latter is lord of the manor, and holds a court leet. The village is remarkable for its clean and neat appearance, and there are two respectable and commodious inns. An annual fair is held here on the last Monday in April, and there are meetings in the season for coursing, archery, and steeple chasing. There is a prosperous friendly society in the village, having 267 members and a reserve fund of £1,904. 5s. 9d. The vicarial tithes are commuted for £9, and Mr. Payne and Mr. Bather, the impropriators, receive £3. 11s. 8d. The endowed school, supported with money arising from the benefactions noticed with the general charities of the parish, is situated in this village. The school is capable of accommodating eighty children; there are now 52 receiving instruction. The master receives 20s. per annum for every scholar admitted; John Jones is the teacher. Over the school house door is the following inscription, which has reference to a chapel dedicated to St. Mary, which formerly stood near the site of the school:—

“God prosper and prolong this public good,
A school erected where a chapel stood.”

The school was built in 1753. This village is celebrated for its immense quarries of red sand stone, from which blocks of almost any dimensions can be raised. The red stone of which the castle, town walls, abbey, and most other old buildings in Shrewsbury are formed, was in all probability brought from this place. Nesscliffe hill will amply repay the labour of an ascent, the prospect is most delightful and varied. On the side of the hill is the celebrated Kynaston’s Cave, perched like an eagle’s nest upon the brow of an overhanging precipice. Humphrey Kynaston was the keeper or constable of Middle Castle, who from his dissolute and riotous manner of life, was surnamed The Wild. The enormous debts he contracted by his conduct caused him to be declared an outlaw, upon which he fled from Middle Castle, and sheltered himself in a cave in Nesscliffe rock, called to this day “Kynaston’s Cave.” It is divided into two rooms by a strong pillar of the rock, upon which is carved, “H. K., 1564.” One of these was the stall for the celebrated outlaw’s horse. The approach was by a flight of broad steps, which have since been partly cut away. Many a deed of daring is rehearsed of this high-born freebooter; among others, his draining to Mr. Lloyd’s health, in that gentleman’s court yard, the great hall tankard of ale; and while some of the retainers were closing him in, and others were securing every way of escape, Kynaston coolly pocketed the silver cup, and clapping spurs to his horse, cleared the gates and the heads of his would-be gaolers at a leap. All his depredations seem more to have been dictated by whim than a desire to plunder, for he supplied the wants of the poor by dispensing the spoils he abstracted from the rich. His grateful pensioners cooked for him in return, and found provender for his elf-like steed; the rich paying him tribute through fear, and the poor from gratitude. Kynaston was never taken, but died, as tradition says, in his cave.

Post Office.—At Mr. Richard Minion’s. Letters arrive at 5.40 A.M., and are despatched at 7.20 P.M.

Bickley Andrew, farmer and vict., Nesscliffe Inn

Dovestan Thomas, stone mason

Evans Robert, maltster, farmer, and vict., The Pigeons

Evans Richard, wheelwright

Gittins John, blacksmith

Gittins Stephen, sawyer

Humphreys Thomas, joiner & cabinet maker

Jones John, schoolmaster

Lloyd Richard, blacksmith

Minton John, saddler and harness maker

Minton Richard, postmaster

Morris John, carpenter

Owen John, tailor and draper

Randell George, cooper

Roberts Elizabeth, shopkeeper

WILCOTT,

a township and small well-built village in the parish of Great Ness, one and a half mile S.W. by W. from the church, having in 1841 eleven houses and 57 inhabitants. The scenery in the vicinity of Wilcott is bold and romantic; the soil is fertile, producing good wheat and barley. The principal landowners are William Payne, Esq.; John Povey, Esq.; George Edwards, Esq.; Richard Wildblood, Esq.; and Thomas Bather, Esq. At the apportionment of the tithes, £76. 15s. was awarded to the impropriators, John Povey, Esq., Thomas Bather, Esq., and William Payne, Esq., and £25. 15s. to the vicar of Great Ness. There are 374a. 0r. 22p. of land in this township. Rateable value, £477. 2s. 9d. The Independents have a small chapel, built of stone, and situated between this village and Kinton.

Directory.—Thomas Bather, Esq., The Villa; David Frumstone, blacksmith; Thos. Higginson, farmer and maltster; Owens Owen, farmer, grazier, maltster, and cattle salesman; William Payne, Esq.; Jane Price, gentlewoman.

HORDLEY

is a parish and pleasantly situated village, three miles south from Ellesmere. The parish comprehends the townships of Hordley and Bagley, and contains 2,417a. 1r. 39p. of land, and in 1801 had a population of 247 souls; 1831, 325; and in 1841 there were 62 houses and 308 inhabitants. The township of Hordley contains 1,211a. 1r. 18p. of land. Rateable value, £1,802. 2s. 6d. The soil is a mixture of sand and loam, producing good crops of wheat, barley, and turnips; but there is a considerable breadth of grazing land in this locality, which has a bold undulating surface. The farm houses have a respectable appearance, and are provided with convenient out-premises. Sir John Roger Kynaston, Bart., is lord of the manor, and owner of the whole township. A remarkable elm tree, of immense size, stands at the cross roads. The canal to Weston and the Ellesmere turnpike road intersect the township.

The Church, situated at Higher Hordley, is a plain structure, with a small turret, in which there are two bells. It consists of nave and chancel, and contains neat tablets to Sir John Kynaston, Bart., John Kynaston, Esq., and to the family of Cureton. The chancel contains a fine altar-piece of elaborate workmanship; and there is a beautiful stone font. The living is a rectory, valued in the King’s book at £3. 19s. 2d.; now returned at £330; in the patronage of Sir John Roger Kynaston, Bart., and incumbency of the Rev. John Walter Moore; curate, Rev. William Frazer. The tithes are commuted for £358, of which sum £272 are apportioned to the rector of Hordley; £16 to the rector of Baschurch; £40. 10s. to Mrs. Topp; and £29 to other impropriators. The Rectory is a commodious and modern erection, situated on a gentle eminence about a quarter of a mile south-east from the church. It was built by the present incumbent, aided by a grant from Queen Anne’s bounty. The old rectory is now occupied as a farm residence. A National School and residence for the teacher was built at Lower Hordley, near the centre of the parish, in 1844. The average attendance of scholars is about sixty. It is supported by subscription and a small payment from the children. There are 28a. 2r. 24p. of glebe land in the parish.

Directory.—Stephen Burroughs, farmer, Lower Hordley; Mary Cureton, farmer; Rev. William Frazer, curate, the Rectory; John Groom, farmer; Richard Harper, blacksmith; Thomas Hewitt, farmer; Joseph Hignett, farmer; Joseph Hignett, farmer, Dandyford farm; Edward Jones, parish clerk and rate collector; Robert Lewis, farmer, Lower Hordley.

BAGLEY

is a township and village in the parish of Hordley, the population of which is returned with that village. The township contains 1,206a. 0r. 21p. of land. Rateable value, £1,785. 10s. The landowners are Rowland Hunt, Esq.; Rev. John Walter Moore; John Dodd, Esq.; Mr. John Groom; Mrs. Davies; Mrs. Leigh; Mrs. Topp; Hon. Thomas Kenyon; Mr. Edward Lewis; Mr. Joseph Hignett; Mr. Edward and John Martin; Mrs. Sutton; Mr. John Langford, and others. Rowland Hunt, Esq., is lord of the manor. The township is bounded by the river Perry, and intersected by the Ellesmere and Weston canal. There are several farms here of considerable extent, and the farm premises are extensive and conveniently arranged.

Directory.—Samuel Bickley, farmer and maltster; Jane Davies, farmer; John Davies, farmer, The Oaks; Samuel Cheshire, blacksmith; Stephen Denston, Esq., The Hall; John Dodd, farmer; William Griffiths, farmer; John Higgins, grocer and vict., Fox Inn; Thomas Lea, farmer; Joseph Lea, farmer and butcher; Edward Martin, farmer; Sarah Nickson, farmer; Richard Paddock, farmer, Bromley Green; Robert Pembury, farmer, Bromley House; Edward Stant, farmer; Edward Tomlinson, wheelwright; Edward Wilson, wheelwright.

LOPPINGTON

is a parish and pleasantly situated village two and a half miles W.W. by S. from Wem. This place, from its contiguity to Wem, was the scene of several skirmishes between the royal and the parliamentary forces in the civil wars. In one of these skirmishes the royal party set fire to the floor and roof of the church, which being covered with shingles was the more easily accomplished, and the parliamentary soldiers who had taken refuge in the church, were compelled to surrender it to the king’s party. The parish of Loppington comprises the townships of Loppington, Burlton, and Noneley, and contains 3,411a. 1r. 36p. of land, of which 97 acres are in woods, plantations, and fox covers. Gross estimated rental, £5,162. 12s.; rateable value, £4,197. 15s. The Duke of Cleveland is lord of the manor, and holds a court. At the census in 1841 there were 612 inhabitants. The township of Loppington contains 1159a. 0r. 33p. of land, and in 1841 had 68 houses and 331 inhabitants. Major Thomas Dicken, is the most considerable landowner; George Wycherley, Harriet Kynaston, Thomas Lloyd Dickin, Esq., The Trustees of the Poor’s Land, Mr. William Williams, Rev. William Thomas, Robert Chambre Vaughan, Esq., and Thomas Windsor, are also proprietors. The soil is in general a strong clay, and a mixture of turf and sand. There is a flat of waste land called the Brown Moss, of which the freeholders are entitled to the herbage; the moss extends into other townships and covers a considerable surface; 7a. 0r. 21p. are within the bounds of Loppington township.

The Church is an ancient structure, dedicated to St. Michael, consisting of nave, chancel, and side aisles, with a square tower, in which are three bells; the nave is lofty, and supported by arches rising from oaken pillars; the body of the church is neatly pewed with oaken sittings, and there is an antique stone font. The north wall was demolished during the civil wars in 1650; it was rebuilt and the interior beautified in 1655. There is a very handsome marble tablet to Richard Marigold Noneley and others of the family; the families of Dickin, Chambre, Wingfield, Payne, Groom, Chester, Griffiths, and others, are also remembered on other mural tablets. The living is a vicarage valued in the king’s book at £6. 12s. 1d., now returned at £270 in the patronage of the Lord Chancellor and incumbency of the Rev. William Thomas, M.A. The vicarial tithes of Loppington township are commuted for £111. 16s., and the rectoral for £93. Thomas Dickin, Esq., is the impropriator. There are 24a. 1r. 26p. of glebe land. The Vicarage is a commodious brick residence, pleasantly situated a little S.W. from the church, with pleasure grounds tastefully laid out. Loppington House, the mansion of Thomas Dickin, Esq., J.P., is a handsome and extensive range of building, the front of which is ornamented with a portico; it is surrounded with a park of considerable extent finely wooded; the pleasure grounds and shrubberries are laid out with great taste, and beautified with fine shrubs and choice flowers. The Hall or Manor House, a good brick residencies is occupied by Mr. James Baddaley, farmer.

Charities.—John Kynaston, by his will, bearing date 30th May, 1694, devised a house, garden, stable, and croft, in the township of Loppington, to his kinsman, Roger Kynaston, and his heirs, to the use of the then schoolmaster of Loppington, and his successors as a salary, for their pains in teaching to read six of the poorest children within the parish, to be appointed by the said Roger Kynaston and his heirs; and if there should happen to be no schoolmaster, he directed that the profits of the premises should be to the use of Roger Kynaston and his heirs. The property devised by the testator consists of a public house in Loppington, with a stable, garden, and croft, containing altogether half an acre. The property, when the Charity Commissioners published their report, was claimed by Thomas Kynaston, grandson of Richard Kynaston, named in the following conveyance:—“By indenture, bearing date 17th November, 1741, between Roger Kynaston, grandson of Roger Kynaston, the devisee above-mentioned, of the one part, and Richard Kynaston, of Loppington, of the other part, reciting the will as above extracted, the said Roger Kynaston, party thereto, in consideration of £4 conveyed to the said Richard Kynaston and his heirs, the messuage, tenements, and lands, and all other the premises in the said will mentioned, and all his estate and interest therein, subject nevertheless to the trusts in the said will mentioned concerning the same.” The premises are let for £13 per annum, an additional sum of £2 being paid by the tenant for a piece of garden formerly no part of the trust premises. The rent of £13 is received by Thomas Kynaston, and he pays thereout £2 yearly to a schoolmaster for the instruction of six poor children. The residue of the rent Thomas Kynaston reserves to his own use; but it is clear that the whole of the rent above-mentioned is applicable to the charitable uses mentioned in the testator’s will, and that notwithstanding that in the conveyance of 1731, £4 was paid as a consideration, Thomas Kynaston can only be considered as a trustee for such charitable uses. It is stated that within the last twenty years Thomas Kynaston has laid out upwards of £300 in rebuilding and improving the premises, but as he has been in possession between thirty and forty years, and during that time has enjoyed the benefit of all the surplus rent beyond the yearly sum of £2, there seems to be no reason why the schoolmaster should not from the present time receive the benefit of the whole rent. It seems also desirable that new trustees should be appointed; but considering the testator vested the property solely in his kinsman, Richard Kynaston, and his heirs, we apprehend that a conveyance to new trustees would not be enforced in a court of equity, provided the said Thomas Kynaston gives up all claim to any beneficial interest therein.

Jane Manlove, in 1751, bequeathed £10, and directed the interest to be disposed of in the purchase of clothing for poor widows; the interest to be applied two years to poor widows resident in Loppington township, and the third year to widows of Burlton township.

Thomas Price, in 1797, bequeathed £50, the interest to be applied in a distribution of bread every Sunday; he also bequeathed the residue of his personal estate, after the payment of certain legacies, for the same purpose. To this legacy of £50 and £30 in augmentation thereof out of personal estate, and the sum of £10 given by Mrs. Menlove, as above-mentioned, £10 was added by the parish to make up £100, which sum was laid out on mortgage of three cottages in Wem, the deed bearing date the 1st August, 1820. The interest, £4, is distributed according to the donor’s intentions. The particulars of Richard Corbet’s charity will be found noticed with Wem. There is a farm of about 63 acres of land in this parish, the rent of which for a great number of years (certainly from 1690) has been considered as applicable to the repairs of the church, the relief of the poor, and such other purposes as the parishioners should direct, and has been so applied at their discretion.

Mary Griffiths, in 1837, bequeathed £300 in the three per cent. consols, and directed the interest to be distributed in money or clothes for the benefit of the poor.Post Office.—At Elizabeth Matthews. Letters arrive by foot post from Middle at 10 a.m., and are despatched at 3 p.m.

Allen William, bricklayer and plasterer

Astley Thomas, farmer and shopkeeper

Austin John, shoemaker and shopkeeper

Baddaley James, farmer, The Hall

Barnes Mr. William

Bickerley Margaret, farmer

Booth Thomas, gentleman

Brown Charles, farmer and gamekeeper

Capp John, gentleman

Cheetwood Samuel, farmer, Stump House

Chorley James, schoolmaster and assistant overseer

Danks Henry, farrier

Dannelly Richard, farmer and vict., Fox Inn

Davies Joseph, farmer

Dickin Thomas, Esq., Loppington House

Dovaston John, farmer and gardener

Eaton Richard, wheelwright

Eddowes Rev. John, curate

Evans Henry, farmer and wheelwright

Evans Richard, farmer

Harper Hannah, farmer

Harper Samuel, farmer

Heatley Thomas, farmer

Jones John, farmer, Hollywell Moor

Kynaston Harriett, corn miller

Kynaston Rebecca, vict., Dickin’s Arms Inn

Matthews Thomas, farmer

Price John, tailor, The Lodge

Pugh Joseph, farmer

Shingler Miss, gentlewoman

Stanway William, farmer

Thomas Harwood, solicitor

Thomas Rev. William, M.A., The Vicarage

Thomas William, surgeon

Turner Ann, farmer

Vaughan Edward Goldsborough Chambre, Esq., Wood Gate

Watson Robert, farmer and shoemaker

Williams Robert, gentleman

Williams William, blacksmith and vict., Blacksmith’s Arms

Wycherley George, gentleman

Wycherley Robert, farmer

BURLTON

is a village and township, intersected by the Shrewsbury and Ellesmere and the Baschurch and Wem turnpike roads, two miles E. from Baschurch, and five miles S.W. from Wem. The township contains 1,324a. 0r. 14p. of land, and in 1841 had 35 houses and 172 inhabitants. Rateable value, £1,604. The soil is various; in some parts a cold clay prevails, and in other places there is a loamy soil, with a mixture of gravel. The principal landowners are R. C. Vaughan, Esq., Thomas Woodfield, Samuel Lee, Robert Leeke, John Menlove, Esq., William Sparling, Esq., The Corporation of Shrewsbury, Thomas Dickin, Esq., Mr. John Platt, Mr. Nicholas Robinson, Mr. Peter Shingler, and Mr. Peter Shingler, jun.; besides whom there are several smaller proprietors. Burlton Green is a plot of waste land, containing two acres, the herbage of which is claimed by the freeholders. There is also a considerable tract of woodland in this township. A court leet and baron is held yearly at the Coach and Horses, by the lord of the manor, Robert C. Vaughan, Esq. The jurisdiction of the court embraces the following townships, viz.:—Burlton, Balderton, Eyton, Fennymere, Frankton, Stanwardine-in-the Field, and Walford. About four-fifths of the township is tithe free; the residue has been commuted; the vicarial for £17. 12s., and the rectoral for £50. 19s., of which £28. 8s. are paid to Messrs. Shingler and Son, and £22. 11s. to Thomas Bulkeley Bulkeley Owen, Esq. The manor, tithes, and estate of Burlton were granted by Roger de Montgomery, Earl of Shrewsbury, in the reign of William the Conqueror, to the Abbey of St. Peter and St. Paul, in Shrewsbury, in the possession of which house it remained till the dissolution of monastic institutions in the time of Henry VIII. In the reign of Elizabeth we find it possessed by one Griffith. It then passed to the family of Lawley, of whom was Sir Edward Lawley, K.B., who, dying, left an only daughter, named Ursula. She married, first, Sir Robert Bertie, K.B., and secondly, George Penruddock, Esq., who thus became possessed of Burlton. This gentleman, taking an active part in the wars of King Charles and the Parliament, and being a zealous royalist, his manor, as did many others in the kingdom, changed its owner, and became the property of Captain Arthur Chambre, in whose family it has remained to the present time, and now belongs to his descendant, Robert Chambre Vaughan, Esq., who resides at Burlton Hall, a very ancient mansion, embosomed in foliage. The greater part of the hall was built about the year 1420; having become much dilapidated, it was thoroughly repaired and beautified during the year 1837. It is handsomely furnished, contains some beautiful paintings, and curious cabinets of the most elaborate workmanship.

Adams Edward, farmer

Baker Joseph, blacksmith and shopkeeper

Baker Robert, beerhouse keeper

Beamont Thomas, farmer, The Coppice

Brown James, farmer, The Grove

Cheshire Thomas, blacksmith

Dean George, fish-net maker

Desert Joseph P., farm bailiff

Dodsworth George, farmer, Wood farm

Done William, shoemaker

Fletcher Richard, shopkeeper

Griffiths Thomas, police officer

Moorehouse Henry Charles, tailor & draper, and victualler, Coach and Horses Inn

Pearce Robert, farmer and maltster, The Wood

Platt John, farmer, The Mill

Pickstock Seth, gentleman

Sadler James, farm manager

Sadler Joseph, farm manager

Sadler Thomas, farmer

Shingler Peter, farmer, The Grange

Vaughan Robert Chambre, Esq., The Hall

Williams Joseph, farmer

NONELEY, OR NUNNELEY,

is a township in Loppington parish, having a scattered population, situated about a mile and a half south from the church. The township contains 931a. 0r. 29p. of land, and in 1841 had 19 houses and 107 inhabitants. Rateable value, £1,018. 10s. The tithes have been commuted, and £37. 7s. apportioned to the Vicar of Loppington; £11. 16s. to the Vicar of Baschurch; and £97. 18s. to Peter Shingler, Esq., the impropriator. The principal landowners are Mrs. Margaret Noneley, Rev. John Evans, Thomas Dickin, Esq., Mr. George Clay, Mr. George Harris, Mr. William Groom, Rowland Hunt, Esq., Mr. John Brayne Gregory, Mr. Robert Betton, D. F. Atcherley, Esq., and Vernon Dolphin, Esq.

Directory.—Farmers: John Davies Bentley; Robert Betton; Samuel Brayne; Thos. Brown; Thomas Harris, The Hall farm; John Higgins; Evan Jones, and maltster; William Jones; Mary Morgan, Ruewood; George Tunnah; John Vernon; George Wall; Thomas Weaver; and William and Richard Webb, The Shaws. Thomas Astley, boot and shoemaker. Arthur Austin, blacksmith.

MIDDLE

is a considerable parish, partly in the Ellesmere division of the hundred of Pimhill, and partly in the Albrighton division, the former comprehending within its bounds the townships of Balderton, Marton, Middle, and part of Sleap; and the latter the chapelry of Hadnal, which consists of the several townships of Alderton, Hadnal, Haston, Hardwick, Shotton, and Smethcott. The entire parish contains 6,902a. 3r. 27p. of land. Mostly a fertile soil, it presents a fine agricultural district, with an undulating surface, interspersed with woods and plantations, and every agreeable feature in landscape beauty. The woods and plantations cover 55a. 3r. 19p. of land. The parish includes the celebrated eminences of Pimhill and Harmour Hill, from whence a most delightful and varied prospect of the country is seen. In 1801 there was a population of 1,141 souls; in 1831, 1,205; and in 1841, 1,330 inhabitants. Rateable value, £4,943. The Duke of Cleveland and the trustees of the late Duke of Bridgewater are joint lords of the manor. The village of Middle is pleasantly situated on an acclivity of red sand-stone rock, on the line of the Shrewsbury, Chester, Ellesmere, and Holyhead turnpike roads. These roads are, however, now but little traversed, the railroads having diverted the greatest portion of the traffic. There are some good houses in the village, which has a straggling appearance; and in the immediate vicinity there are several respectable family residences. The township contains 2,179a. 2r. 15p. of land, the soil of which in some parts is a cold clay, in other parts it is more fertile. In 1841 there were 87 houses and 456 inhabitants. Rateable value, £2,240. The principal landowners are the trustees of the late Viscount Alford, William Henry Bickerton, Esq., William Teece, Esq., Mr. John Chilton, Mr. Edward Birch, Edward Edwards, Esq., and J. A. Lloyd, Esq.

Middle Castle.—Of this ancient baronial fortress there are but few vestiges remaining. Lord John L’Estrange, in the time of Edward I., obtained licence to make a castle of his house at Middle, which lay less exposed to the incursions of the Welsh than his castles of Knockin and Ruyton. The castle was two stories high, with a flat roof, and some part of the walls were remaining about the year 1640. These were in a great measure destroyed by an earthquake in 1688. It was a quadrangular structure, with a square court inside, and was surrounded by a moat. The moat is yet very perfect, and filled with water; but the castle is completely demolished, except a tower and a few fragments of the walls. These existing vestiges were recently put in a state of repair, by order of the late Viscount Alford. On the east side of the castle, there was a piece of ground of about half an acre, surrounded by a moat. The entrance to this piece was by a gatehouse, which stood near the north-east corner of the castle moat, and near it was a drawbridge over the moat. In the 3rd of Edward III., John L’Estrange had a grant of free warren, the view of frankpledge and waif, in this manor. A settlement made by Richard L’Estrange may be found in the chancery rolls in the 18th of Henry VI. After the death of this family it descended to the Derby family, and William Dod was appointed constable or keeper; and after him Sir Roger Kynaston was, by commission, keeper of Middle and Knockin castles. Upon the decease of Sir Roger, his son Humphrey (who, from his dissolute and riotous mode of life, was called Wild Humphrey) was tenant here. On his being outlawed, he left Middle Castle, which he had suffered to become ruinous, and went and took up his abode in a cave, near Nesscliff, which to this day is called Kynaston’s cave.

The Church, which is dedicated to St. Peter, was rebuilt about a century ago, with the exception of the tower, which was erected in the year 1634. It consists of two aisles and a chancel, and exhibits the debased style of English architecture. Two handsome windows were put into the chancel about a year ago, in the decorated style, at the expense of Mrs. Egerton, widow of the late rector, the Rev. Thomas Egerton, to whose memory the east one is dedicated. The windows are richly beautified with stained glass, by Wailes, of Newcastle. There are several neat memorials in the church to the Atcherleys, Bickertons, Kynastons, and others. It is neatly pewed with oak sittings, and the whole has a chaste and orderly appearance. The living is a rectory, valued in the king’s book at £12. 7s. 3½d., now returned at £1,003, in the patronage of the trustees of the late Viscount Alford, and enjoyed by the Rev. George Henry Egerton, M.A., who resides at the Rectory, a delightfully situated mansion, beautified with pleasure grounds and shrubberies. The rectory was rebuilt in 1747, by Dr. Egerton Leigh, the then rector. Subsequent additions have from time to time been made. The tithes have been commuted for £345. 19s. 6d. There is a Parochial and Infant School in Middle, in which upwards of 100 children are educated. They are chiefly supported by the rector, by whom the infant school was established. The Middle Friendly and Benefit Society has 107 enrolled members, and a capital stock of £675. 15s. 11d.; besides which, there is the Middle Old Friendly Society, and a branch of the Oddfellows, which have a considerable number of members.

Charities.—William Gough, in 1669, devised his lands, subject to the payment of £5 per annum, on the 25th of December, to the minister and churchwardens of Middle, to be applied in putting forth poor children apprentices. Richard Newton left a rent charge of 12s., issuing out of the Newton estate, to be given in bread to the poor on the second Sunday in the month. This gift, and the yearly sum of 25s., paid out of the poor’s-rate, are applied in the purchase of bread, and distributed every Sunday. This 25s. is supposed to be paid as the interest of some charity money applicable to this purpose, and carried to the account of the parish. The same sum has been paid from the year 1786. Thomas Atcherley, by will, 1680, devised a rent charge of 24s. per annum, payable out of certain lands in Baschurch parish, to be given to the poor of Middle on Easter Monday. There is a plot of land, consisting of about three-fourths of an acre, which is let for 30s. per annum, and the amount is distributed by the churchwardens every Easter Monday, with the sum of 16s. 6d., paid from the parish-rates, as the interest of money supposed to have been given for charitable uses, and carried to the account of the parish. There are ten other bequests, which are stated to be vested in the parish, amounting altogether to £70. If the £24 paid for the purchase of the above mentioned land be deducted from that sum, there will remain £46, which is supposed to have been taken to the account of the parish, and for which the two sums of £1. 5s. and 16s. 6d., paid as above stated, would be interest at 4½ per cent.

The Rev. Thomas Watkins left to the poor of this parish not receiving parochial relief, the sum of £20. Richard Watkins left £30 for the like purpose. John Mansell gave £10 to the poor. The three sums above mentioned amounting to £60, are secured on the Ellesmere House of Industry, by bond, bearing date 19th February, 1793. The interest is distributed among the most necessitous poor of the parish. The poor are entitled to partake of the benefit of Dame Mary Hill’s charity, noticed with the chapelry of Hadnal. Francis Henry Earl of Bridgewater, by his will, bearing date August 29th, 1828, gave to the overseers and churchwardens of the parish of Middle £2,000, to be laid out by them in the public funds, and the dividends thereof to be expended by the rector for the time being for the benefit and relief of the poor of Middle, including Hadnal. The dividends amount to £65 per annum, which is chiefly appropriated by the present rector to a clothing club, the poor receiving the addition of the charity to their savings.

Post Office.—At Mr. William Parry’s. Letters arrive from Shrewsbury at 8.30 A.M., and are despatched at 5 P.M.

Bate Abigail, farmer, Hollins

Bickley Joseph, farmer

Birch Thomas, farmer

Brisbourne William, farmer

Cheshire Jane, blacksmith and victualler, Blacksmiths’ Arms

Chilton John, wheelwright

Davies Thomas, farmer

Done John, boot and shoemaker

Eaton William, tailor

Egerton Rev. George Henry, M.A., The Rectory

Fardoe Samuel, boot and shoemaker

Fox John, farmer

Grice James, shopkeeper and boot and shoemaker

Griffiths Mary, dressmaker

Hignett Samuel, maltster

Hodnett John, tailor

Humphreys Sarah, farmer

Jones Edward, grocer and provision dealer

Majoribanks Sir John, Bart.

Majoribanks Miss Mary

Majoribanks William, Esq.

Madeley Thomas, farmer

Marsh Henry, farmer

Nisbet Rev. John Majoribanks, curate

Paddock Richard, farmer

Parry Emma, infant school teacher

Parry Sarah, girls’ school teacher

Parry William, postmaster and victualler, Lord Alford’s Arms

Parry William, parish clerk, registrar, and perpetual overseer

Pritchard William, gentleman, Grove Place

Rees John, farmer

Rogers John, tailor, The Wood

Sharrow Jesse, schoolmaster

Wilkes Thomas, wheelwright

William Richard, farmer

BALDERTON

is a small township in the parish of Middle, comprising 714a. 2r. 24p. of highly productive land, with an undulating surface, well wooded. It is situated a little to the north-east of Middle, and in 1841 had six houses and 26 inhabitants. Rateable value, £787. The Duke of Cleveland is lord of the manor. The principal freeholders are the Rev. Thomas Staniforth; John Arthur Lloyd, Esq.; Thomas Dickin, Esq.; William H. Bickerton, Esq.; the trustees of the late Lord Alford; Mrs. Price; and Peter Shingler, Esq. The Primitive Methodists have a neat stone chapel at Webscott lane. The tithes of Balderton are commuted for £124. 9s.

The principal residents are Francis Lee, farmer; Rev. Thomas Staniforth, The Hall; and James Young, farm bailiff.

MARTON

is a township in the parish of Middle, one and a half mile north-east of Baschurch, which contains 921a. 0r. 16p. of land, and in 1841 had 28 houses and 134 inhabitants. Rateable value, £1,023. The farm houses have here a respectable appearance, and the farms are of considerable extent. The Shrewsbury, Ruyton, Middle, and Loppington turnpike roads intersect the township. The principal landowners are the Duke of Cleveland; the trustees of the late Viscount Alford; David Francis Atcherley, Esq.; Miss Feaston; and Thomas E. Horseman, Esq. The tithes are commuted for £135. 12s. Marton Hall is an ancient mansion, the residence and property of David F. Atcherley, Esq., whose ancestors were seated here at a very early period. The house is pleasantly situated, and stuccoed; it is surrounded by park-like enclosures, which are richly wooded, and there is a fine pool of water on the verge of the grounds, which covers a surface of 45a. 2r. 15r. There are three outlets from the pool, which are well stocked with fish.

Atcherley David Francis, Esq., The Hall

Boliver John, cooper

Davies Edward, farmer, Martin lane

Evans John, land agent

Griffiths Geo., clock maker & general dealer

Horseman J. F. Esq., The Wood

Roberts Thomas, farmer, The Wood

Shingler Thomas, farmer

Wall George, farmer

NEWTON-ON-THE-HILL

is a scattered village, salubriously situated on an eminence, seven miles north from Shrewsbury. The township contains 669a. 3r. 2p. of land; and in 1841 there were 63 houses and 265 inhabitants. Rateable value, £893. The principal landowners are the trustees of the late Viscount Alford; Richard Palin Bickerton, Esq.; William Henry Bickerton, Esq.; Mr. Richard Whitfield; Edward Edwards, Esq.; and Thomas Watkins, Esq. The Independents have a neat stone chapel, built in 1833, at a cost of about £700. There is a residence for the minister attached to the chapel. The congregation is under the pastoral care of the Rev. George Rogers, who admits a limited number of youths into his residence as boarding scholars. There is a Sunday school in connection with this place of worship. A small cemetery adjoins the chapel. Harmer Hill is a delightful eminence, which commands a fine view of the rich agricultural district with which it is surrounded. The situation is highly salubrious, and the vicinity is beautified with several respectable residences. Near to this place is Pimhill, distinguished as having given name to an important section of the county. It is clothed with thriving fir trees to its very summit, and is a conspicuous object for many miles round.

Those names with * affixed reside at Harmer Hill.

* Barlow Thomas, farmer and vict., Bridgewater Arms

Bickerton William Henry, Esq., The Hill House

* Boliver John, wheelwright

* Carr Robert, mason and quarry master

* Carr Robert, gamekeeper

* Cooke William, mason and quarry master

Garmston Seth, farmer

* Harris Jane, shopkeeper and vict., Red Castle

* Harris Mrs. S., farmer

Leech George, shopkeeper

* Marsh John, butcher

* Pearce John, medicine vendor (Ploughman’s drops)

* Rogers Rev. George, Independent minister and boarding school proprietor

* Walmsley Robert, farmer

MONTFORD

is a parish and pleasantly situated village on the banks of the river Severn, five miles N.W. from Shrewsbury. The parish of Montford contains the townships of Montford, Endson, and Forton, having conjointly 2,937 acres of land; and in 1801, 456 inhabitants; 1831, 566; and in 1841, 102 houses and a population of 490 souls. Rateable value, £3,519. 10s. There is a fine sheet of water in this parish, covering 47 acres. The river Severn is crossed by a noble and substantial stone bridge, and hence Montford is usually called Montford Bridge. The London and Holyhead turnpike road intersects the township, which contains 987a. 2r. of land. Rateable value, £1,308. 5s. The soil is a mixture of loam and sand, and highly fertile. At the census of 1841 Montford township is returned as containing 92 houses and 434 inhabitants; but there is no separate return made of the township of Forton, which contains 19 houses. The Church is a venerable fabric, consisting of nave and chancel, with a square tower, in which are three bells. The chancel and the body of the church were re-built in 1737. The living is a vicarage, valued in the King’s book at £4. 18s. 6d.; now returned at £246; in the patronage of the Earl of Powis, and incumbency of the Rev. George Arthur Clive, M.A. The vicarage is a good residence of brick, about a quarter of a mile from the church. It was built in 1842, and being lofty, has an imposing appearance. There is a free school in the village, which is chiefly supported by voluntary subscriptions. The Earl of Powis is lord of the manor and proprietor of the whole township. The houses on the south side of the river at Montford Bridge are partly in Bicton and partly in Montford. There is a branch post office at Mr. Jones’s, Swan Inn, Montford Bridge.

Clive Rev. George Arthur, M.A., The Vicarage

Austin Thomas H., farmer

Bowen John, constable

Davies Richard, basket and fish net maker

Davies William, basket maker

Dawson Thomas, farmer and vict., Powis Arms

Edwards John, basket maker, assistant over-seer, registrar for the Montford district, and collector of rates for the townships of Montford, Shrawardine, Ensdon, and Forton

Groom Ann, Post Office

Jones William, vict., The Swan, Montford bridge

Mansell Timothy, schoolmaster

Mathews Stephen, farmer

Matthews Thomas, farmer

Randles John, blacksmith

Thomas John, shopkeeper

Till William, farmer

Wilding Edward, farmer

ENSDON,

township in the parish of Montford, six miles W. by N. from Shrewsbury, contains 983 acres of land, and in 1841 had ten houses and 56 inhabitants. Rateable value, £1,138. 10s. The soil is a mixture of clay and sand; the whole township is the property of the Earl of Powis. Ensdon House, the residence of Evan Bowen, Esq., is a handsome and pleasantly situated brick structure, in the Elizabethan style of architecture. The farm premises are conveniently arranged, and of considerable extent. A steam apparatus has been provided to prepare the food for cattle, and various other appliances for economising labour. Mr. Bowen farms more than a thousand acres of land. Beam House farm, the residence of George Benjamin Cureton, is provided with extensive out premises, and the farm is of considerable extent.

Bowen Evan, Esq., Ensdon House

Bowker Samuel, farmer

Cureton George Benjamin, farmer, Beam House

Edwards John, farmer and farrier

Gough Lucy, farmer

Gouch Thomas, farmer

Hughes William, blacksmith

Minton Mrs., farmer

Nunnerley John, shoemaker

Till Thomas, farmer and gamekeeper

FORTON,

a township in Montford parish, with a scattered population, six miles N.W. from Shrewsbury, contains 966 acres of land, chiefly arable, the soil of which is a mixture of sandy loam and clay. Rateable value, £1,072. 15s. The Earl of Powis is the principal landowner and lord of the manor. Mrs. Middleton is also a proprietor. The tithes have been commuted, and £76 apportioned to the Earl of Powis, and £61 to the vicar of Montford. There are several large farms here, and the homesteads are provided with conveniently-arranged out-premises. There was no separate return made of this township at the census of 1841.

Cadman John, farmer and builder

Crane Edward, farmer

Edwards John, wheelwright

Jones Thomas, wheelwright

Middleton Margaret, farmer

Mansell John, farm bailiff to Mrs. Middleton

Minton Samuel, farmer, Forton Hall

Onions John, sawyer and joiner

Price Thomas, maltster, The Heath

PETTON

is a small parish, six miles S.E. by S. from Ellesmere, and twelve miles N.N. by W. from Shrewsbury, comprising 822a. 1r. 16p. of land, and in 1841 had five houses and 39 inhabitants. Rateable value, £978. A century ago the Petton estate was held by John Chambre, Esq., who died in 1752, and left three daughters co-heiresses, Hannah, Rebecca, and Mary. Hannah married a Mr. Corbet, Rebecca died unmarried, and Mary married John Hill, Esq., of Prees, afterwards Sir John Hill, of Hawkstone, and grandfather to the present Viscount Hill. Mrs. Hill’s moiety of the estate was sold to her sister, Mrs. Corbet, by whom and her husband the whole estate was alienated, about the year 1794, to John Sparling, Esq., merchant, of Liverpool, father of the present proprietor, William Sparling, Esq., who resides at Petton Hall, a handsome stuccoed mansion of considerable extent. It is approached by a lofty portico, supported by stone pillars, and in the front of the mansion are beautiful pleasure grounds and shrubberies, which open into a park of considerable extent, having a fine undulating surface, richly wooded with noble timber, and occasionally studded with thriving plantations. The kitchen gardens and vineries are extensive, and highly productive. The Church, situated near to the Hall, is a plain brick structure, consisting of nave and chancel. The interior has a chaste and neat appearance. The reading desk and pulpit were the gift of Mrs. Sparling; they are of dark oak and elaborately carved; the altar is also of oak, beautifully carved. There are neat tablets to the Chambre and Morris families, and a beautifully designed memorial to two members of the family of Sparling, who were cut off in their early years. The living is a rectory, valued in the King’s book at £3. 4s. 2d.; now returned at £142; in the patronage of the Lord Chancellor, and enjoyed by the Rev. George Cunliffe, M.A. The Rev. George Walker is the curate.Directory.—William Sparling, Esq., The Hall; Captain Charles Sparling, The Hall; William Sparling, jun., Esq., The Hall; Miss Sparling, The Hall; Thomas Davies, gardener; Thomas Drury, coachman; Richard Danneley, groom; Henry Smith, house steward. Farmers: Edward Johnson, The Grange Farm; Thomas Shingler Wakley.

SHRAWARDINE,

usually called Shraden, is a village and parish in the lower division of the hundred of Pimhill, bounded on the north by the river Severn, six miles N.W. from Shrewsbury, and 13 S.E. from Oswestry. In 1801 there were 186 inhabitants; 1831, 189; and in 1841 there were 34 houses and 196 souls. The parish contains 1,903 acres of land. The Earl of Powis is the landowner. Rateable value, £2,798. The Church is a plain Gothic structure, dedicated to St. Mary, which stands upon an elevated site, overlooking a fine undulating district, covered with fruitfulness, and richly clothed with timber. It contains a small but fine-toned organ, the gift of Earl Powis, and the Rev. Isaac Frowd, the rector of Shrawardine, in 1832. It is expected ere long that the unsightly tower, which is of wood, will be taken down, and one of stone, of a more ornamental character, added in its place. There are several neat tablets in the chancel to the Newlings, and others; and a brass memorial remembers Martha Botevyle. It also contains an antique old font. The living is a rectory, valued in the King’s book at £9. 12s. 6d.; now returned at £380; in the patronage of Earl Powis, and incumbency of the Rev. George Arthur dive, M.A.; curate, Rev. John Norgreave Baker. The following account of Shrawardine is copied from an old parish register book, now in the possession of the curate:—“In the time of our unnatural broil and unhappy wars that were between the king and his parliament, Shrawardine Castle was made a garrison for the king, September 28th, 1644. Sir William Vaughan, colonel, was made governor of it. This garrison was the head quarters of all his forces. Whilst this garrison continued the church and chancel were pulled down; the outbuildings of the castle, the parsonage house, with all edifices thereto belonging, and the greatest, fairest, and best part of the town were burnt, for the safety, as it was pretended, of the garrison. In this firing, the register book, with many books of the minister, were burned. Shrawardine chancel was thrown down on St. Matthias’ day, February 24th, 1644. The church was pulled down on Whit Sunday eve, June 8th, 1645. The town was burnt on Midsummer eve and Midsummer day, 1645. The garrison was cowardly surrendered up to the parliament forces under the command of Colonel Hunt, Colonel Lloyd, and Mr. Charlton, after five days’ siege; and within less than a fortnight after all the timber of the castle, and much goods that were in it, were all consumed with fire, upon a sudden report that Sir William Vaughan was coming to surprise it. Afterwards the stone work was pulled down, and carried to Shrewsbury for the repairing of the castle there, and the making of Rousal wall, standing on the Severn side. The church was re-built by a voluntary collection through the county, in the year 1649. In the meanwhile the parishioners assembled for the worship of God in the castle stables.” The chancel of the church was rebuilt in 1722. Oliver Cromwell, shortly after the castle was taken, ordered its destruction, at which period he dismantled and destroyed a great number of the ancient baronial fortresses. The castle stood near to the church; the remains of it consist of mere fragments of mortar and rough stones. It was anciently the seat of the Fitz Alans, and subsequently of the Bromleys. It is now the property of Earl Powis, who is also a considerable owner of land in this district. The Hall Farm House is an ancient structure, occupied by Mr. James Crane. The farm premises have been newly erected, upon a commodious and conveniently arranged plan. Shrawardine Castle is a modern building of red freestone, and being situated on elevated ground, commands a most delightful and picturesque view of the adjacent country. There is a fine sheet of water, covering several acres of land, in the vicinity of the castle. The castle farm contains 506 acres. The farm premises are of considerable extent, most admirably arranged, and furnished with all the modern appliances for agricultural purposes. Thomas Bowen, Esq., is now the occupant. Joseph Jones, by his will, bearing date 30th September, 1729, reciting that he had in his hands £30 belonging to the poor of Shrawardine, which was intrusted to him by the family of Bromley, of Holt Castle, to be put out to interest, and the amount yearly expended in coals for the poor. Mr. Jones, to secure the legacy, charged certain premises with the payment of 30s. per annum, and this amount is now paid out of an estate which was subsequently given by Mr. Jones to the poor of Atcham, subject to the above rent-charge.

Asterley John Nightingale, farmer

Baker Rev. John Norgreave

Bowen Thomas, farmer, The Castle

Bowen Even, farmer, Buckley

Bryne Edward, wheelwright

Crane James, farmer

Edwards John, parish clerk

Jones James, shopkeeper and shoemaker

Onions Mary, farmer

Plimley Henry, farmer

Price John, blacksmith

WELSH HAMPTON

is a parish and village in the Ellesmere division of the Pimhill hundred, pleasantly situated three miles east from Ellesmere. This parish lies on the northern verge of the county, adjoining Flintshire, in Wales. At the census in 1801, there was a population of 373 souls, in 1831, 532; and in 1841 there were 118 inhabited houses, four uninhabited, and 569 inhabitants. The parish contains 2,970 acres of land, the soil of which is various; in some places it is highly fertile, and in other parts of an inferior quality. The principal landowners are the trustees of the late Earl of Bridgewater, Charles K. Mainwaring, Esq., Mr. Samuel Reeves, Mr. Richard Thomas, Mr. James Smith, Mr. Thomas James, Joshua Lewis Menlove, Esq., Mr. Thomas Grindley, Mr. Richard Evans, Mr. William Hewes, Mr. Thomas Williams, Mr. Thomas Baleman, Sir John Hanmer, Mr. Thomas Speakman, Lord Kenyon, Mr. William Williams, Mr. William Cartwright, Mr. John Price, and Mr. William Stant; besides whom there are several other small proprietors. The living of the church is a perpetual curacy, valued in the king’s book at £6, now returned at £139; in the patronage of Charles K. Mainwaring, Esq., and incumbency of the Rev. George S. Master.

Lane Mary, schoolmistress, Hampton Wood

Lawrence Mr. Thomas, Hampton House

Master Rev. George Streyncham

Speakman Thomas, assistant overseer

Thomas John, parish clerk

Warwick Emma, schoolmistress

Windsor Mrs. Jane, Hampton Wood

Blacksmith.

Marth Clay, Hampton Wood

Boot and Shoemakers.

Dodd John

Harris Edward

Kynaston John

Ralphs Matthew

Sproston William

Stant William

Butcher.

Morgan Thomas

Carpenter and Joiner.

Hatton Thomas

Farmers.

Bowen John

Brigg John Bishop

Cooper John

Cook Mary

Downward Peter

Edge Joseph, The Roe

Grindley Mary

Harris John

Holbrook John

Hughes William

Jones John

Lewis Thomas

Lewis William

Oakley Edward

Pay John

Phillips Joseph

Price John

Speakman Thomas

Stant William

Williams Edward, The Fields

Woodall Mary

Grocers & Provision Dealers.

Davies John

Peate Edward

Inns and Taverns.

Red Lion, William Sproston

Royal Oak, Wm. Williams

Sun, Thomas Hatton

Maltsters.

Edge Joseph

Jones John

Stay Makers.

Hughes Jane

Lloyd Sarah Ann

Tailors.

Deakin Benjamin

Trevor Thomas

Wheelwrights.

Jones John

Lloyd William

Speake Thomas