See Dovecote & Church

FURTHO 83 H 12 PNN 99

Forho 1086 DB et freq to 1315 Cl with variant spellings – hou, - how, Forreho 1235 Cl
Fortho 12^th Survey et freq to 1428 FA, Fordho 1220 Fees,
Forthoo 1341 Ipm
Furthoo 1600 AD iv, Furtho al. Fortho 1622 FF

‘The projecting hoh,’ cf. Forty Green (PN Wo 202) for similar compounds of forth. The church and manor house stand on a low spur of land.

DB 223-223b; VCHN I.324 Manor 1086

Land of the Count of Mortain

In Clailea Hundret

Ralf holds 2 hides in Forho. There is land for 6 ploughs. In demesne there is 1 plough and 4 serfs; and there are 2 villeins and 3 bordars with 1 plough. There are 8 ac. Meadow. Was worth 10s, now 30s. Godeman and Godeva held it freely.

DB 223b; VCHN I. 325-6 Manor 1066-1086

Land of the Count of Mortain

William [Note: This was William de Cahagnes, who appears as William de Cahainges, a tenant-in-chief, in Floore, p. 336] holds half a hide and 4/5ths of half a hide in Forho. There is land for 3.5 ploughs. In demesne there is 1 plough; and 2 bordars have half a plough. There are 6ac. Of meadow. It was worth 10s; now 30s. Alwin and Osulf held it freely.

326: The same William holds 9/10ths of 1 hide in the same vill. There is land for 2 ploughs. There is 1 plough with 1 villein and 3 bordars. There are 8ac. Meadow. Was worth 10s; now 60s. Godwin held it freely

Pipe R 1175-6 (Pipe R. Soc.) 51. Manor 1175-6

1175-6 William son of Terrici de Forhou renders account of ten marks to have his land, which his lord holds. He has paid five marks into the treasury and owes five marks.

Abbrey. Plac. (Rec. Com.). 4. Church 1194

Michaelmas 1194. Regarding the receipt of the chirograph between the abbot of St. Peter and Peter de Chamnet and William de Foro concerning the advowson of the church of Foro.

Rot. Cur. Reg. (Rec. Com), 28 Manor 1196

1196 Robert de Stok. Unjustly and without right disseised Ralph son of Simon and his son Thomas of their free tenement in Forho et Pery.

Cur. Reg. R. I. 28 Misc Deeds 1196

1196. Assise recognises that Robert de Stok’ unjustly and without right disseised Ralph son of Simon, and Thomas his son of their free tenement in Pery and Forh’. Robert replied that he had been put in rightful seisin of the lands by Robert de Brailbroc. Robert’s case is judged the stronger.

Rot. Cur. Reg. (Rec. Com.). I. 128 Church 1199

29 November 1194. The Bailiff of the Abbey of St Peter super Diva absents himself from the case against Peter de Kainneto and William de Foro concerning the chapel of Forro, which is in the hands of the king. The Abbott is summond to Westminster in 15 days time.

VCHN I.374: C12 Survey Manor c12

In Forhoue <a> Walter 2 hides of the fee of Richard Fitz William. <b> There also 7 small virgates of the fee of Berkamstede. <c> There also the earl of Leicester 3 small virgates.

Notes: <a> Held of the count of Mortain by Ralf in 1086. <b+c> These two holdings represent two holdings there of the count of Mortain, each of 9/10^th hide, in DB. But they only account for 1 hide between them.

Rot. Litt. Pat. (Rec. Com.). 109. 127 Manor 1214-15

25 January 1214. King John entrusts the honour of Engham and the hundred and a half of Fourho to John Marshal. Dated at Porchester.

15 January 1215. King John grants the manor of Engeham’ and the hundred and a half of Fourho to John Marshal. Dated at Guildford

Cur. Reg. VIII. 75 Manor 1219

1219. The recognitors for the assize of novel disseisin brought by William son of Walter against Alan son of John, summoned to swear on oath state that William has never had the tenement.

Bracton’s Note Bk. Ii., 55-6 Manor 1219

1219 Process of cerification to charge the recognitors of an assise of novel disseisin held by the justice itinerant between William son of Walter and Alan son of John over the tenement held by the latter in Forhod of false oath

William son of Walter de Furtho?

Book of Fees, I.321 Manor 1220

Carucage of 1220 (cross ref to Subs. 242/29);

Couesgrave and Furdho 23 carucates and a third part 46s 8d
[Carucate carucata Derived from the Latin word caruca, meaning plough, this is a measure of land used in Danelaw (North and Eastern) counties in Domesday. Equivalent to a hide and represented the amount of land which could be ploughed by one plough team.]

Rolls of Hugh de Welles 2 (Cant. And York Soc. 3). 129. Church 1226

1226. Institution of Alberimus de Purie to the church of Furtho on the presentation of William de Furtho and Ralf de Chedneto.

Cur. Reg. R. XV. 329. 356-7 Manor 1235

1235. Michael son of Ralph and his wife Katerina petition against William de Montecutr concerning the knight’s fee in Fouthowe

Knight's fee. In feudal Anglo-Norman England and Ireland, a knight's fee was a unit measure of land deemed sufficient to support a knight.

1235. William de Montecute states that the advowson of the church of Langebercg pertains to Forhow, but that its lands to Preston.

Book of Fees I.495-6 Manor 1235-6

Returns to aid or scutage of 1235-6 includes under Northants:

Of the fee of the Lord William de Morte Acute for the fee of Aquile and the little fee of Mortun, viz. 3 knights fee, including in Forhou 1 fee and in Couesgrave half a fee

[Scutage (in a feudal society) money paid by a vassal to his lord in lieu of military service.]

Book of Fees, II.946 Manor 1242-3

Transcripts of documents of 1242 and earlier part of 1243 re king’s expedition to Gascony in 1242, for which he mustered all tenants in chief by military service and serjeanty. No original Northants to scutage of 1242 but three lists in Book of Fees.

Fees of the Honour of Aquila in Northants:

Walter de Forho 1 fee ‘Mort’ in Forho.

Book of Fees, II.935 Manor 1242-3

The Master of the Hospital of St John in Northampton and Alan de Tiffeud hold in Tiffeud 1 small fee with 1 virgate of land and a half which Walter de Forho held in Kouesgrave.

Book of Fees, II.1401 Manor 1247

Assize Roll 31 Henry III [1247], Cleyley Hundred, Jury of 12.

Jury say that Robert son of Roger holds certain lands of the king in Bustardesleg and in Ho and renders 3s p.a. to the Exchequer, and is worth 2 marks p.a.

Assize Roll 31 Henry III [1247], Cleyley Hundred, Jury of 12.

The jurors present that Walter de Forho holds a fee of one whole knight (interim militis) and is not a knight. Therefore in mercy.

NRO, FH 154 Misc. Medieval Refs. 1248-9

Fine, 33 Hen. III., between Robert de Wydevill quer., and Master Robert de Pery Imped., concerning 32a. land and 3a. meadow with aptts. In Forhowe. To be of the right of Robert Widevill etc. To hold etc to Robert de Pery for the whole of his life, rendering yearlt etc.

CP 25/1/173/36

PRO, CP 25/1/173/36/575 Misc. Deeds   1249                

Fine. Quindene of Hilary, 33 Hen III (1249) Between Robert de Wideville quer and Master Robert de Pery imped.

32a land and 3a meadow in Forhow. RP acknowledges to be of the right of RW. RW grants the same to RP for his life, rent 18d at Easter and 6d at Michaelmas.

NRO, FH 154 Misc 1248-91       

Fine 33 Henry III between Robert dr Wydevill quer and Master Robert de Pery imped concerning 32a land and 3a meadow with appts in Forhowe. To be of right of Robert Wideville etc. To hold to Robert de Pery for the whole of his life, rendering yearly etc.

CP 25/1/173/36X

Bridges, i. 297 Church 1254

In taxation of ecclesiastical benefices made by the bishop of Norwich in 38 Hen. III we find no mention of the church of Furtho.

In 1291 rectory was valued at 2 marks.

MS Cott. Vesp. E. XXII

Cal. IPM IV.138-9, No 218 Other Estates 32 Edward I [1271]

John de Tyngewyk, alias de Tyngeswyck, de Tingewyk. Writ 13 June 32 Edw. I. Inq. 7 July 32 Edw. 1.

Wytlewode: 10.5 ac.assart in forest held of the king at fee farm for 5s 3d p.a. to be paid at Exchequer by sherriff.

Jerdele, Morende, Aldrington, Estpyrie, Couesgrave, Furtho, Bosenho and Stratford. Certains tens were acquired jointly by said John, Rose his wife and William their son, of the gift and feoffment of Ralph son of William de Plumpton and William Lamberd, and held of Robert de Clyfford, Henry Gobyon, John Mowen, Geoffrey de Luci, Henry Spygurnel, Elias de Tyngewyk, Adam de Fortho and Thomas de Leukennore by service of 7s 3d p.a. and suit at court of said Robert de Clyfford at Jerdele every 3 weeks. At La Morende, in Yarley Gobion, a cap. Mess. Etc. and at Aldryngton, Jerdele and Stratford 6 little mess., 300 ac. Arable, 20 ac. Meadow, 18s. assised rent p.a.; and they peacefully continued their seisin until John’s death. Said William, aged 22 or more, is next heir of John. And other property in Northants, Bucks, Herts.

C. Edw. I File 112(12)

Cal. IPM II.117-18, No 193 Manor 4 Ed. I [1275]

Thomas de Audeham, alias de Waudeham, de Aldeham. Writ 11 Dec. 4 Edward I. Lands in various counties.

p. 118: Northampton. Inq. undated. Include Tiffield and Furtho: 2 carucates rendering 15s 4d yearly. These and others held of the inheritance of Isabel his wife, of the honour of Laigle, for half a kn. fee, doing 40d yearly for the keeping of the castle of Pevensee. Heir is Baldwin, son of Thomas and Isabel, aged 15 (or 16, elsewhere in same incl.). C.Ed.I, File 14(10).

Rot. Hund. (Rec. Com.) 11 Manor 1275

1275. The Earl of Cornwall and his father have held estreats of writs, pleas of vee de naam and the assize of bread and ale in Forho for the last thirty years.

[Estreats a copy of a court record for use in the enforcement of a fine or forfeiture of a recognizance.]

Rot. Hund. (Rec. Com.), 11 Manor 1275

1275. The Earl of Leicester has held the liberties of the Forho for the last twenty years.

NRO, F. X.1 Manor c.1275-1300

Grant by John Taylfer of Cosgrove to William son of Adam de Furtho of land in Cosgrove. Henry son of Adam de Furtho is towards end of witness list. Presumably dated roughly from list of witnesses, who are headed by John Wideville of Grafton.

X.2 also dated c 1275-1300 is grant to Adam son of late Walter de Furtho, endorsed 'pro Brouneswod’

X.3 also given same date. Grant by Robert of the Mills of Cosgrove of land in Furtho. to which Walter de Furtho is first witness.

X.4 also given same date, Waiter again the first witness. Also Walter de Furtho chaplain one of the witnesses.

X.5 is a grant by Agnes le Cheyne widow to Richard and Muriel Livedon, to which Adam de Furtho is first witness.
Same dating.

PRO, CP 25.1.174.51.42  Misc. Deeds 1277      

Easter five weeks 5 Edw I (1277). William son of Geoffrey le Forester pet. And Robert de Wideville ten. One mess and 32a land and 2a meadow in Furtho. William recognises mess to be of right of Robert and releases and quitclaims for himself and his heirs to Robert and his heirs for ever. Robert gave William 36s.

NRO, F III.6 Manor 1287?

Land of Adam de Furtho mentioned in abuttal; also Walter de Furtho is the first witness. Date queried in list but appears to be 1287: Tuesday before St Dunstan 15 Edward., which appears to mean 13 May 1287. Other names in deed look late c13.

NRO, F III.49 Manor 1289

Agreement between William de Iarpenvile and Adam de Furtho and Hawise his wife re suit of court at Langley.

NRO, F III.27 Manor 1289

Adam son of Walter de Furtho is first witness of a quitclaim of rent in Cosgrove.

Cal.IPM III.309, No 423 Manor 25 Ed. I [1297]

Edmund the king’s brother. Writ 3 July 25 Edw. I. To settle his widow’s dower and what the king holds by reason of the minority of the heir. Inq. At Northampton, Monday the morrow of the purification 26 Edw. I. Long list of fees in Northants, including in Cleley Hd:

Pokesle, Couesgrave, Furtho and others outside hundred: total five fees, of little fee of Mortain, held by Thomas de Leukenoure

C.Edw.I File 81.

Baker, i. 156 Manor 1297

This estate (i.e. the DB estates assigned by honor of Leicester), like preceding one (assigned to honor of  Berkhampstead), was held under earl of Moreton by William, ancester of baronial family of Keynes (see i. 350, 355).

On the partition between the brothers, one of these estates appears to have been assigned to Keynes of Gretworth, as Furtho is found associated with the five fees held by Sir Thomas Leuknore, the representative of this lines of Keynes (see i. 508) under Edmund late Earl of Lancaster and Leicester in 25 Edw. I (1297).

Esc. 25 Edw. I, n. 51

NRO, F III.II Manor c.1300

Adam de Furtho is first witness in undated charter listed as c. 1300 re land in le Inlond

NRO, F IX.4 Manor c13

Adam de Furtho is witness of a Cheyne-Doget deed re land in Furtho, undated

NRO, F III. 42 Manor c13

Undated charter by which Agnes de Cheinie grants to Richard de Livedon and Muriel his wife 40s. silver 1 meadow in Furtho. Adam de Furtho is first witness; other names clearly c13 people’

III.43

Murial late wife of Richard grants and QCs to Henry and Alice Bonde of Alderton fourth part in Yardley and Potterpury mills. Adam de Furtho is first witness.

Cal.IPM III.460, No 604 Manor 1300

Edmund Earl of Cornwall. Writ 26 Sept. 28 Edw. I: missing but see Cal.Fine.Rolls Edw.I, p. 433.

p. 460: Northants (in long list of counties). Liberty of the honour of BerkhanIstede held of the king in chief of divers baronies, incl:

Barony of Cheindut: Fixed fines at the view of frankpledge in various places including Cousgrave and Forho, also Holcot and Estneston.

This inq. missing from File of IPMS but supplied by enrolment.

C.Edw.I, Files 95-97; E.Enrolments No 8.

Cal. Close R. 1302-7. 173 Manor 1304

1304. 16 September. Order to Walter de Gloucester, escheator beyond the Trent, to deliver to Roesia. widow of John de Tyngewyk. and William their son the following lands and tenements in Yerdele. Morende, Aldrington, Estpiry, Covesgrave, Fortho. Bosenho and Stratford, held of Robert de Clifford, Henry Gobyun, John Mowen. Geoffrey de Lucy. Henry Spygurnel. Elias de Tyngewyk, Adam de Fortho and Thomas de Leukenor for the payment of 7s 3d yearly and by doing suit at Robert de Clifford's court in Yerdele.

NRO ZA 377 Misc Late C13      

Grant from Muriell de Chenne of Furtho, widow, to John son of Elias de Tingewick (Bucks) and Roesia his wife for half a silver mark, half an acre in Cosgrove

Pencil note – this is the same family who turn up in FX4

NRO FH 148 p7 Misc 1304        

Fine 33 Edw I: Henry Spigurnel quer of tens in Cosgrove, Furtho and Puxley

CP 25/1/175/60x

NRO, F III. 29 Manor 1305

Adam son and heir of Walter lord of Furtho grants land to mther of his illegitimate children and the children.

Baker, i. 130: under Cosgrove Other Estates Spigurnell 1315-17

In 9 Edw. II (1315) Henry Spigurnell was certified to be lord of Cosgrove

Cardigam MSS, Nom. Vill., p. 9

In 11 Edw. II (1317) Sarah dau of Adam Aylmer released to Sir Henry Spigurell, lord of Cosgrove, and Sarah his wife all the lands which belonged to Stephen her brother there and at Furtho.

Placit. Hil. 11 Edw. II, n. 47

Baker, i. 158 Other Estates Grestain Abbey c13-14

Grestain Abbey in Normandy had a gift of Theodoric de Furtho a virgate of land in Cosgrove, and a moiety of his tithes of Furtho, by permission of the lord William, quit of all service.

Mon. Aug. ii. 982

This donation, in the confirmation charter of Edw. II, is described as two virgates with appts. In Furtho, and a moiety of the tithes of Furtho

Cal. Pat. R. 1313-7, 427, 496 Misc 1316

1316  1 February. Commission of Oyer and Terminer to William Herne, John le Wyleghby, Richard de Bere and John le Westcote, on complaint by Adam de Forthho touching the persons who burnt his home in Forthho, together with his goods. By fine of 40s.

1316  6 May. The same to Henry Spigurnel, John le Wyleghby, Ralph de Plumpton and John le Westcote, on complaint by Adam de Forthho that Willian de Tyngewyk, Alan Lemnes, John de Tyngewyk, parson of the church of Wappenham, Philip la Zouche, Walter de Sidenham, John Cok of Padbury and Ralph his brother, John Hyches and Walter Clay burnt his home and goods by night.

Abbrev. Plac. (rec. Com.). 329 Other Estates 1318

Hilary 1318. Remittance by Henry de Spigurnelle, lord of Covesgrave, and his wife, of the military service owed in Covesgrave and Furtho by Sarre, daughter of Adam Aylme, in respect of her brother Stephen.

NRO FH 148 p18 Misc   1325    

Fine 19 Edw II: John Cosgrove quer of tens in Cosgrove and Furtho

CP 25/1/176/71x

Cal. Close R. 1327-30 Manor 1328

1328. 21 October. Order to Simon de Bereford, escheator this side of the Trent to deliver to Sara, widow of Henry de Spigurnel, lands held by the late Henry of the heir of the Earl of Warwick, a minor in the king's wardship, that is the manor of Cosgrove, 10 messuages, 8 virgates of land, 4 acres of meadow, 12 acres of wood and 61s 8d of rent in Cosgrave and Pokesle.
Note that Henry de Spigurnel also held various lands of other lords, including other land in Cosgrove and Forthe and Pokesle.

Sel. Cases in the Ct. of King’s Bench I (Selden Soc. Lv). Lxvi Manor 1328

1328. At his death in 1328, Henry Spigurnel, judge of the court of the King’s Bench was lord of Furtho, Cosgrove and Puxley.

Baker, i. 130: under Cosgrove

Sir Henry de Spigurnell died 2 Edw. III (1328) and IPM exhibits how complicated tenures were in that period. As well as manor of Cosgrove and lands there, and rent there and in Puxley, estate also included lands in Cosgrove and Furtho held of Henry de Furtho by suit st his court of Furtho and the hundred of Cleley every three weeks.

Estate also included other land in Cosgrove held of various other lords.

Henry was succ. By son Thomas Spigurnell aged 30.

Esc. 2 Edw. III n.28.

Lay Subsidy R. 1334. 211 Local Government 1334

1334. Lay Subsidy for Couesgrave and Furtho: £5 10s

NRO, X. 17 Manor 1337 – 8

RL and QC by Henry lord of Furtho and Sarah his wife to Nicholas son of Nicholas de Blisworth and Isabel our dau. his wife of estate which 'I' had by grant from Henry fox his life. (Presumably Nicholas (sen. or jun.) had the estate.). 1337.

William son of Henry de Furtho is a witness.

X.18 is RL and QC by William son of Henry lord of Furtho to Nicholas de Blisworth and Isabel his wife, my sister, of the same estate, which Isabel formerly had by demise from my father for her life. First witness is Henry de Furtho. 1338.

X.19 is a grant by a chaplain to Henry de Furtho and Sarah his wife of manor and advowson of Furtho, with remainder to William son of Henry and Sarah and Margaret his (William's) wife and their heirs, remainder in default to Henry and his heirs. 1338.

X.20 is fine to fortify X.19 (1338).

NRO, F.X 19 Manor 1338

22 Jan. 1338. William Starling of Schenele chaplain to Henry de Furtho and Sarah his wife. Manor of Furtho and advowson of church of Furtho with services of all free  tenants of the manor and all tenants for life, of nativi and their sequela etc etc, with remainder to William son of Henry and Sarah and Margaret his wife and heirs of their bodies. Remainder in default to Henry and his heirs.

NRO, F.X 20 Manor 1338

12 April 1338. Final concord. Henry de Furtho and Sarah his wife quer. and William Starlings chaplain of Shenle def. Manor of Furtho with appts. Henry and Sarah recognise that William had it by Henry's grant, in consideration of which William grants it to Henry and Sarah, with remainders as in charter (X.19).

PRO, CP 25/1/177/75/168 Manor 1338

Fine. Quindene of Easter 12 Edw. III (1338). Henry de Furtho and Sarah his wife quer. and Willam Starling chaplain of Shenley deft. Manor of Furtho with appts. Henry recognises manor to be of the right of William, who had it of the gift of Henry. William grants manor to Henry and Sarah for the whole of their lives, remainder after their deaths to William son of Henry and Margaret his [William's] wife and the heirs of the bodies of William and Margaret. If William and Margaret die without heirs, then after their deaths manor to remain to the right heirs of Henry.

NRO, FH 148, p. 39 1338

Fine, Hilary, 12 Edw. III (1338), between Henry Furtho (quer.) of the manor of Furtho in fee tail.

Baker, I 158 Other Estates Hospitallers 1329

Hospital of St John of Jerusalem had a rent charge of 31s 6d p.a. out of a mess. And 4 virgates of land in Furtho.

Rot. Penes H.H.H. Hungerford arm.

In 3 Edw. III (1329) the prior, in plea to a writ of QW, substantiated his claim to VFP twice a year in Furtho of his tenants there and in Cosgrove, Shutlanger and Stoke.

Quo Warranto, 3 Edw. III.

Bridges, I, 297 Other Owners Hospitallers 1329

Knights Hospitallers of the order of St John of Jerusalem had formerly some possession here, as appears by a writ of quo warrantto, exhibited against the prior 3 Edward III, requiring him to show cause why he claime to have view of frankpledge of all his tenants in the town of Furtho.

Rot, de quo Warranto 3 Edw, III n. 12

Cal. Papal Reg. III. 110. Church 1344

May 1344 Letter of absolution to William Adamens Gobioun rector of Fuytho

NRO, F X.22 Manor 1349

Henry, lord of Furtho, is first witness to grant of land in Cosgrove and Furtho 18 May 1349

NRO, F X.23 Manor 1349

Grant by Margaret widow of William de Furtho to feoffees of her manor of Furtho and Weston by Olney with advowson of Furtho

X.24 is letter of attorney to give seisin.

NRO, F.X. 23 Manor 1349

May 1349. Attached to X.10 and X.12. Margar' widow of William de Furtho to Nicholas de Blisworth and John de Fortho chaplain of her manors of Furtho and Weston by Olney with advowson of Furtho church and appts, for their lives.

F.X.24: 31 May 1349. Margaret widow of William de Furtho appoints Thomas atte Temple her attorney to deliver seisin to Nicholas de Blisworth and John de Furtho chaplain in her manors of Furtho and Weston by Olney.

Cal. IPM x, 276-7 no 325  Manor 1357 transcribed from researcher’s handwriting

1357 30 June. Inq Thomas Forester.

Puxley & Le Lye  1 Messuage and a carucate of land of 15a held jointly with his wife Joan, in chief of the King

Passenham. Messuage with a garden and 2 crofts held jointly of the Earl of Lancaster, for 6d yearly and a suit at the court of Passenham twice a year.

Furtho. A croft called “Le Brede” of 6a arable land held jointly of William Passenham by faculty 18d rendering suit at the manor court of Furtho every three weeks.

Cosgrove. A messuage, 7a of land and a toft held jointly as above

The messuage of John ate Mulne; the 7a of land of James de Barnevill for 5s yearly; the toft of Walter Pawley (Pavely?), knight, by 18d yearly; 7a of land of Henry Lyle for 4s yearly.

Knotwood Farm is Notwode 1367,  For, Nottewode 1373 Pat. Cf. also

Cal. Pat. R. 1354-8. 597. Church 1357

1347. 4 September. Presentation of John Dekez to the church of Forthoo.

NRO, F.III.46 Manor 1357

6 Dec. 1357. John son of Henry de Furtho chaplain to Richard son of Richard de Caleshale. His manor of Furtho and advowson (large portion missing.)

Cal. Close R. 1361-4 513 Church 1363

1363 25 January. Memorandum setting out Geoffrey de Lucy’s claim to various manors (listed) and the advowsons of various churches, including Fortho, by right of an indenture made between Geoffrey de Lucy’s grandfather and William de Leyburne.

Cal.IPM vi, 55-6 m81 Manor 1362              transcribed from researcher’s handwriting

1362 1 Oct Inquisition. Thomas le Forester

Puxley & Le Lye – Messuage, 80a land, 44s sent.

Held in chief of the King – 2s yearly. Dovecot.

Horse-mill held of Edward Prince of Wales as of the honour of Berkhamsted for 1d yearly

– ½ acre called le Stokkyng, held of Peter Fitzjohn by 1/2d yearly.

Passenham. Messuage and 2 crofts held of John, earl of Richmond as of the manor of Passenham.

Furtho. A croft called “Le Brede” held of William de Fortho for 18d yearly; a curtilage called Alnes – yerd held of the lord of Furtho for 6d yearly.

Cosgrove. A messuage with curtilege and 7a of land, held of John ate Mulne and John Bernevill – messuage is held of the manor of Cosgrove by service of 18d yearly; 7a arable held of Henry de Lyle; messuage and 4a held of the abbot of [illeg]

Purie. 2 Tofts, 24a land, 2a meadow and 2a pasture held of Thomas de [illeg] for 13s 4d yearly.

….. – sisters Isabel Hardeshulle Lucy Revs; nephew John de [illeg]

NRO, X.26  Manor 1364

Lease by William, lord of Furtho, to William Beauchamp of Cosgrove and Alice his wife of estate in Cosgrove.

Cal. Close R.1364-8. 384 Manor 1367

1367 June 1. Writ of John Nanscuvel quitclaiming to John Goodrich and his heirs all lands in the towns of Puxley, Stony Stratford, Cosgrove, Furtho, Potterspury and Passenham, which they had of the gift and enfeoffment of William de Leycestre.

Cal. Pat. R. 1396-9, 581-2 Manor 1399

1399. 19 May. Pardon granted to Philippa. Duchess of Ireland, citing: 1. Letters patent dated 20 February 1395 granting to John Sebryght for ten years all the lands and tenements belonging to the castle of Moresende, excepting marriages, wardships. reliefs, escheats and fisheries, and lands, tenements, rents, wastes. purprestures and assarts for a yearly rent of 40 marks, and that the said farmer holds lands, tenements. rents. wastes etc in Yerdlegobyon. Potterpyrie. Cosgrove, Fortho, Litylstratford. Shutlongre. Alderton and Bosenho which were not part and parcel of the said castle. 2. Letters patent dated 8 May 1395 granting to John Sebryght and Thomas de Everdon. for the same term all the lands and tenements belonging to the manor of Plumpton Pirie. for a rent of 11 marks. 3. Letters patent dated 28 May 1395 granting to Thomas. archbishop of York, John. bishop of Salisbury. and Edward, earl of Rutland, for their lives in survivorship all of the lands of the late Queen Anne. Also recites that the late earl, adjudged a traitor, as duke of Albemarle. granted to the said Philippa. for life, the castle of Moresend, with all the lands, rents and tenements which he had with it in Moresend. Yerdlegobyon, Potterspery. Cosgrave, Fortho, Lytilstratford, Shuttlangre, Alderton and Bosenho on condition that they were appurtant to the castle. along with timber for fuel and repair within Wyttylwode forest. The king grants to the said duchess, for life, all the lands, as held by the late queen.

NRO, F.X.56 Advowson 1472

10 Nov. 1472. Grant from Wm Catesby knt, Walter Mauntell knt, Wm Ashby, Richard Lawe and John Hayle, in fulfilment of the last will of Wm Furtho esq. late of Furtho, to Thomas Furtho of Furtho gent. son of Wm.

All lands etc in Furtho and advowson of Furtho which grantors have with John Furtho citizen and 'cissor' of London (who released all his rights to the grantors) as well as with Wm Baker clerk now deceased late jointly they had by grant and feoffment of Wm Furtho.

To be held to Thomas Furtho and his heirs male. If none remainder to John Furtho citizen and cissor of London. If none to right heirs of Wm Furtho.

Appointment of Wm Hartwell and John Abyndon attorneys to deliver seisin to Thomas.

Endorsed: A remitter of the manor of Furtho.

F.X.57 is the counterpart, endorsed (in Latin): Feoffees of Wm Fortho, Thomas Fortho manor of Fortho in tail.

NRO, F.X. 28 Manor 1373-5

William, lord of Furtho, is listed witness of lease by Nicholas Blisworth of land in Cosgrove. 1373.

X.29

William also first witness of lease by Nicholas of some other land in Cosgrove. 1374

X.30

William de Furtho lord of Furtho conveys to feoffees his lands in Furtho, Cosgrove and Weston Underwood.

Cal. IPM XV.75 (No 176) 2 Richard II 1379

Edward Prince of Wales. Writ 12 Feb. 2 Rich. II. Inq. Northampton 9 March 3 Ric.II. 1380. Prince held in county in chief (long list, incl.) Furtho: a moiety of a knight’s fee, now held by John Levedon, worth 50s yearly. Also premises in Cosgrave and Easton Neston.  [Honor of Berkahmstead]

NRO, F.X. 34  Manor 1383

13 July 1383. Letters patent. Grant from Anne queen of England to John Wydevill of custody of lands of William de Furtho deceased who held of her to hold to legitimate age of Willliam son and heir of William, together with his marriage. Endorsed: Grant del wardship per Queen Ann.

NRO, F.III. 18 Manor 1392-8

Nicholas de Blisworth conveys Fretwell’s Croft in Cosgrave to William Furtho of Furtho, 1398.

F.III. 20

Same to same of more land, lease for 40 years. 1392

NRO, F.III. 41 Manor 1398

Nicholas Byfield QC to William Furtho de Furtho of land in Cosgrave late Sir Walter Pavely.

NRO, F.XIII. 2 Manor 1398

QC to William Furtho of Furtho of land afj. Fretwells Croft late Pavely, which William had from Nich. De Blisworth.

Cal. Pat R 1396-9 581-2 Manor  1399    

1399 19 May. Pardon granted to Philippa, Duchess of Ireland, citing:

1. Letters patent dated 20 February 1395 granting to John Sebryght for ten years all the lands and tenements belonging to the castle of Moresende, excepting marriages, wardships, reliefs, escheats and fisheries and lands, tenements, rents, wastes, purprestures and assarts for a yearly rent of 40 marks, and that the said farmer holds lands, tenements, rents, wastes etc in Yerdlegobyon, Potterpyrie, Cosgrove, Fortho, Litylstratford, Shutlongre, Alderton and Bosenho which were not part and parcel of the said castle.

2. Letters patent dated 8 May 1395 granting to John Sebryght and Thomas de Everdon, for the same term all the lands and tenements belonging to the manor of Plumpton Pirie for a rent of 11 marks.

3. Letters patent dated 28 May 1395 granting to Thomas archbishop of York, John bishop of Salisbury, and Edward earl of Rutland, for their lives in survivorship all the lands of the late Queen Anne.

Also recites that the late earl, adjudged a traitor, as Duke of Albemarle, granted to the said Philippa for life the castle of Moresend with all the lands, rents and tenements which he had with it in Moresend, Yerdlegobyon, Potterspery, Cosgrove, Fortho, Litilstratford, Shuttlangre, Alderton and Bosenho on condition that they were appurtant to the castle along with timber for fuel and repair within Wyttylwode forest. The king grants to the said duchess for lif all the lands as held by the late queen.

Cat. Anct. D. III, 450 Other Estates 1400

1 December. Grant by Katherine Adyngton, late the wife of William Adyngton of Estpirye to Thomas Adyngton, her son, of a messuage and land in Estpirye, Yerdeley Gobion and Couesgrave, the said messuage being situated in Blackwellende, part in the field Hardeleefeld, part in Claywelfeld, part under Fortho, part on Claywellhill,  part on Lamcoteforlong, part in Wynmylitefeld, part in Pondeforlang, part at Stoneycrosse, part in the field of Yerdeley Gobyon at La Haye and part in Moynes Mede; also a grant of yearly rents in Estpirye.

NRO FH 167 p250 Misc 1403    

Note from Northants Assize roll 5 Hen IV 10. 20. The jurors say that a rent of 13s 4d is rendered for services issuing from tens in Cosgrove, Furtho and Puxley. The master of the hospital of St John of Jerusalem recovered the same rent. And Thomas Fitzjohn, William Pees and John Pees “in ia”

NRO FH 167 p250 Misc Medieval Refs 1405-6   

Note from Northants Assize roll 5 Hen IV 10. 23. Gregory Daubeney and his wife Joan recover seisin of 1 mess and 10a land in Cosgrove, Furtho, Potterspury and Little Stonystratford, and Nicholas Soule and others “in mia”.

Baker, i. 158 Other Estates Hospitallers 1406

In 8 Hen, IV (1406-7) Furtho was a member of the court held in Stony Stratford.

Rot. penes H.H.H. Hungerford esq.

[Henry Hungerford Holdich Hungerford of Dingley Park]

NRO, FH 148, p. 100 MIsc. Medieval Refs. 1408-9

Fine, Mich. 10 Hen. Iv, between Nicholas Parker of ten. In Furtho and Cosgrove.

CP 25/1/179/91

Feudal Aids IV.43 (1428) Manor 1428

De Willelmo Fortho pro di. F. in Fortho de honore de Aquila, que (sic) tenetur de castro de Gynyngton (sic) per servicium xiij.s iiij. D per annum ad wardam dici castri, quod Henricus Fortho tenuit iij. S. iiij.d.

NRO FH 148 p112 Misc 1430    

Fine Easter 8 Hen VI (1430) between John Barton jun of third part of ten in Stonistratford, Pokesle, Fortho and Cosgrove to John Barton.

CP 25/1/179/94x

PRO, CP 25.1.179.94.56   Misc. Deeds  1430    

Fine. Easter one month 8 Hen VI (1430).

John Barton jun, Edmund Dyve, John Broughton and John Loughton quer, and Richard Nuncourt and Elizabeth his wife deft,

Third part of 8 mess, 3 tofts, 120a land, 10a meadow, 30s rent in Stony Stratford, Puxley, Furtho and Cosgrove.

Richard and Elizabeth recognise premises to be of right of John Broughton, who (with feoffees) had them of gift of Richard and Elizabeth and release and quitclaim of Richard and Elizabeth for themselves and the heirs of Elizabeth to John etc and heirs of John Broughton.

John Broughton gave Richard and Elizabeth 20 marks.

NRO FH 148 p114 Misc 1433    

Fine Easter II Hen VI (1430) between Richard Illing of ten in Yardley Gobion, Cosgrove, Deanshanger and Furtho

CP/1/179/94x

NRO, F.X 53 Manor 1453

22 Oct. 1453. Copy of will of William Furtho of Furtho esq. Transcribed in list:

Will of William Furtho of Furtho esq., dated Monday after feast of St Luke, 32 Hen. VI (1453).

Feoffees (William Catesby knt, Water Mauntell esq., William Ashby, William Baker clerk, John Furtho, Richard Lawe and John Hayle) to settle on Thomas Furtho of Stony Stratford and his heirs male lands which John Turvyle held in SS by indre, and on Thomas for life other lands held it John without indre.

Feoffees to convey: to John Hayle of SS for life 2a. in the West Meadow of Wolverton.

to Thomas Kok of Passenham for life 12s. of free rent from lands once of John Beauchamp of Cosgrove, and of as 8d free rent from lands of John Foscotys; feoffees to include a clause for distraint on all of his lands in Cosgrove and Furtho in case his son William or Thomas prevent the rents being paid.

to Robert Gardiner of SS for life a ten. in market by the church stile of St Giles, and to convey to him 16s. rent from Nicholas Chapell for 15r. meadow and lands he holds by indre.

to John Dyster for life the reversion of a ten. in SS held by Margaret the mother of Thomas Fortho for her life.

to Wm Borall for life a fot and close in Little Stratford.

to give £10 to Furtho church for repairs, and £10 to Potterspury church and Yardley chapel, not to be paid to the churchwardens but to be disbursed by the feoffees, the £20 to come out of the testator's Yardley rents.

to pay his son Thomas 10 marks p.a. from his lands in Wolverton, Calverton and SS which are to be conveyed to him and his issue male when all debts are paid, and if he have no male issue to his brother Wm and his heirs male.

to pay William 10 marks p.a. from the Northants lands but if William and Alice dau. of Thomas Pekke live 12 months then to convey the 10 marks to them and the longer liver of them.

to settle the Northants estate when all debts are paid on William and his heirs male and in default of such on Thomas and his heirs male and in default of such on those of Thomas Fortho of SS with further remainders over to John Furtho citizen and drape: of London and to John son of William Fortho of Stony Stratford.

PRO, E 210/4348 Manor 1458

Thomas Fortho of Stony Stratford and John Hayle of the same, admors of the good and chattels of William Fortho of Fortho sen. Release to Thomas Foster of Yardley Gobion yeoman of all actions. 10 March 36 Hen. VI (1458).

No real evidence to link this with the Arden deeds. Could just be sorting out William Furtho's estate after his death.

NRO, F.X.54 Manor 1472

10 Nov. 1472. Grant from Wm Catesby knt, Walter Mauntell knt, Wm Ashby, John Furtho citizen and 'cissor' of London, Richard Lawe and John Hayle, in fulfilment of will of Wm Furtho esq. late of Furtho deceased, to Thomas Fortho of Furtho gent. son of said William. All lands in Calverton, Wolverton and SS which they late had with Wm Baker clerk deceased by grant of Wm Furtho, to be held to Thomas Furtho and his heirs male.

Reversion to grantors to sell and dispose of money for the souls of Wm Furtho and all his benefactors and friends.

Appointment of Wm Hartwell and John Abyndon attorneys to deliver seisin.

F.X.55 is the counterpart of 54.

NRO, F.X. 56 Manor 1472

10 Nov. 1472. Giant from Wm Catesby knt, Walter Mauntell knt, Wm Ashby, Richard Lawe and John Hayle, in fulfilment of the last will of Wm Furtho esq. late of Furtho, to Thomas Furtho of Furtho gent. son of Wm.

All lands etc in Furtho and advowson of Furtho which grantors have with John Furtho citizen and 'cissor' of London (who released all his rights to the grantors) as well as with Wm Baker clerk now deceased late jointly they had by grant and feoffment of Wm Furtho.

To be held to Thomas Furtho and his heirs male. If none remainder to John Furtho citizen and cissor of London. If none to right heirs of Wm Furtho.

Appointment of Wm Hartwell and John Abyndon attorneys to deliver seisin to Thomas.

Endorsed: A remitter of the manor of Furtho.

F.X.57 is the counterpart, endorsed (in Latin): Feoffees of Wm Fortho, Thomas Fortho manor of Fortho in tail.

NRO FH 148 p100 Misc 1488    

Fine Mich 10 Hen IV between Nicholas Parker of ten in Furtho and Cosgrove.

CP 25/1/179/91/x

NRO FH 148 p147 Misc 1497    

Fine Hilary 12 Hen VII between Richard Morley and others quer and William Illing deft of ten in Eastpery, Cosgrove, Furtho and Pokesley in fee simple to the same Richard.

CP25/1/179/97x

Cal. IPM 2^nd Series II.191 (no 291) Manor 15 Hen VII 1499

291. MARGARET FLEMYNG , late the wife of THOMAS FURTHOWE
Writ 15 April, 14 Henry VII; inquisition 15 November, 15 Henry VII.
Thomas Furrtho, esquire, late the husband of the said Margaret, was seised of the under-mentioned manor, &c. in fee tail, by reason of divers gifts thereof to his ancestors made, whose heir of their body lawfully begotten by virtue of the gifts aforesaid he was, and being so seised by charter gave the said manor, &c. to Anthony Wodevyle, earl Ryvers, John Grey, knight, lord de Grey, by the name of John Grey de Wylton, esquire, Ralph Hastynges, William Catesby, Walter Mauntell, knights, William Catesby, Henry Mauntell, Thomas Mauntell, John Harvy, Roger Salesbury, Richard Boughton, William Hartewell, esquires, William Asheby, John Asheby, Richard Fitz John and Peter Fitz John, their heirs and assigns, to the use of himself and his heirs ; they were seised thereof accordingly in fee to the use aforesaid and afterwards the said Thomas had issue William Furtho, and died ; and the said earl and the others died and the said John Grey and William Hertwell, the survivors of them, being seised of the said manor, &c. by survivorship in fee, by their charter enfeoffed Edmund Brudenell, John Danvers, esquires, Robert Brudenell, the elder, Thomas Langston, Thomas Hertwell, of London, ' draper,' Thomas Hertwell, of Hertwell, and Robert Brudenell, the younger, thereof, to the use of the said William Furtho in tail, and they were, and at the time of the taking of this inquisition are seised of the said manor, &c. in fee, to the use aforesaid.
The said Margaret after the death of the said Thomas up to the day of her death took the issues and profits of the said manor, &e. by leave of the said feoffees.
She died 11 March last. William Furtho, aged 26 and more, is her son and heir.

NORTHAMPTON. Manor of Furtho, and a messuage and four virgates of land called ` . . uwens,' otherwise called ' Fosters ' Furtho, held of the king, of the duchy of Lancaster, by fealty, but by what other services the jurors know not.
A messuage and a virgate of land in Pery, held of the king, as of the manor of Moreynde.
Four messuages, a toft and six virgates of land, in Cosgrave held of Thomas, marquess of Dorset, service unknown.
A close of pasture in Old Stratford or Oldestratford, held of the said marquess by fealty.

C. Series II. Vol. 14. (49.)

Cal. IPM 2^nd series II.579-80 (No 912) Manor 20 Hen. VII 1504

912 WILLIAM FURTHO
Writ 4 December, inquisition 1 June, 20 Henry VII.
He was seised of the under-mentioned manor &c., and, being so seised in consideration of a marriage had between him and Katharine Hartwell, one of the daughters of William Hartwell, knight, and in consideration of a certain sum of money paid him by the said William, according to certain covenants for the said marriage, gave the same long before his decease, by charter, by the description of the manor of Furtho and of all other his lands, &c., in Passenham, Furtho, Cosgrave, Estpury and Yardley, or elsewhere, in the county of Northampton, to John Dyve, esquire, William Boghton, gentleman, Master John Cokkys, rector of the church of St. Gregory in the town of Northampton, Thomas Hartwell, gentleman, Stephen Poore, gentleman and Brian Hartwell, gentleman, their heirs and assigns, to the use of himself and the said Katharine, his wife, for the term of her life, and after her decease to the use of himself, his heirs and assigns, and they were seised thereof accordingly to the use aforesaid.
He died 16 November last. Anthony Furtho, aged 9 and more, is his son and heir. The said Katharine survived him and is yet alive, and the said John Dyve and the others are seised of the premises to her use, for the term for her life

NORTHAMPTON. Manor of Furtho, six messuages, 300a. land, 100a. pasture, 30a. meadow, and three assarts, in Furtho, Estpury, Passenham, Cosgrave and Yardeley ; the manor, worth £8., held of the king, as of the duchy of Lancaster, by 4 a knight's fee ; the land, &c., in Passenham, worth 4s 4d., of the king, as of the duchy of Lancaster, by fealty only, for all service ; the land, &c., in Cosgrave, worth 30s., of the marquess of Dorset, by fealty only, for all service ; and the land, &c., in Yardley and Estpury, worth 40s., of the king, as of the earldom of Warwick, by fealty only, for all service.

C. Series II. Vol. 18. (91.)

NRO, Early N’ton Wills, f. 170v Manor 1504

5 Nov. 1504. William Furtho of Furtho. Burial within the church of St Bartholomew of Furtho. To the same church 6s. 8d. To cathedral church of Lincoln 4d. Bequest to sister Elizabeth. Will that Katherine my wife should possess all my lands and tens. in hands of my feoffees in cos. Northants. and Beds. for the term of her life. And that she should have rents and profits of all my lands and tens.in vills and fields of Wolverton, Calverton and Stony Stratford in co. Bucks. for the use and exhibition of my sons Anthony, Thomas, Robert and James, for their schooling, exhibition and erudition. Residue of all my goods not bequeathed to my wife Katherine. Thomas Langstone and Thomas Pygott gents. to be exors. Witnesses: John Edwards of Gosegrave priest, John Adyngton of Estpuxy, Richard Berton of Stonystratford, John Wilson of Gosegrave.

NRO, YZ 7809 Gen. Topic [1504]

Copy of a terrier made 15 Oct. 20 Hen. VII [1504].
Copy not dated but hand would fit lateish C17 or even about 1700. End'd: A terrier of Pury glebe and of the lands in Cosgrove field which pay tithe to Pury.

Whereas Junius Rykby alias Jakes Rykby of Cosgrove husbandman, took to farm of Thomas Richard the prior of the Charterhouse next to Coventry and of the convent of the same a parcel of land, viz. all the glebe lands and the tithes of all the lands, meadows, pastures, leases, mortuaries, profits and other commodities pertaining or belonging unto the church of East Perry commonly called East Perry Lands, as they be lying and being within the  town [sing.] and fields of Cosgrove and Furtho, as by this terrier made with the consent of the said prior and convent and of William Bely vicar of East Perry, Thomas Haull parson of Cosgrove, and other honest men of  Cosgrove, viz. William Nelson, William Reeve, William Rough and William Pollinge with divers others.

The tithes due to be paid out of certain arable lands within the parishes [plural] of Cosgrove and Furtho unto the church of East Perry, lying in Quarry Field: 3a. of arable in Quarry field in pa. Cosgrove in Hay Furlong pay tithe to East Perry. 3.5a. arable of St John's land in hay furlong pay tithe to East Perry. And so on. Several other acres listed (various owners) as paying tithe to East Perry. One parcel called the Armites Half-acre. 46 entries in all.

Hereafter certain parcels of land in the parish of Cosgrove in the Middle Field whose tithings belong to the church of East Perry: four parcels specified, far fewer than in Quarry Field.

Hereafter certain parcels of land in the parish of Furtho in Quarry Field whose tithings belong to church of East Perry: 12 parcels itemised. Armitis Half mentioned again.

Hereafter certain parcels of meadow and pasture in South Mead in Cosgrove: 7 entries, Incl. one parcel called St John's mead, and ends with entry for all the pasture that does belong to the said meadow.

Hereafter parcels of meadow in Bydwell Meadow alias Marford Meadow in the parish of Cosgrove whose tithings belong to East Perry; second name written as Manford in individual entries but clearly Marford in heading. 6 entries in all. Includes half an acre of meadow belonging to the house of Bicester lying in Manford aforesaid.

NRO, Early Northants Wills, f. 170v. 1504

5 Nov. 1504. William Furtho of Furtho. Burial within the church of St Bartholomew of Furtho. To the same church 6s. 8d. To cathedral church of Lincoln 4d. Bequest to sister Elizabeth. Will that Katherine my wife should possess all my lands and tens. in hands of my feoffees in cos. Northants. and Beds. for the term of her life. And that she should have rents and profits of all my lands and tens. in vills and fields of Wolverton, Calverton and Stony Stratford in co. Bucks. for the use and exhibition of my sons Anthony, Thomas, Robert and James, for their schooling, exhibition and erudition. Residue of all my goods not bequeathed to my wife Katherine. Thomas Langstone and Thomas Pygott gents. to be exors. Witnesses: John Edwards of Gosegrave priest, John Adyngton of Estpury, Richard Berton of Stonystratford, John Wilson of Gosegrave.

PRO , E 179/155/130 Gen Topic 1524

Subsidy assessment for 16 Hen. VIII (1524-5). Roll starts with Cleley, with some damage and fading on early membranes. Side-headings for the townships and total number of entries normally legible.

Furtho: 3 names: Thomas Brokesby 40 in land (40s), Richard Cheyne in wages 20s. (4d.), Nicholas (Blank, i.e. ditto?) in wages 20s. (4d.). Total 40s. 8d.

Lay subsidy assessment for Cleley, 16 Hen. VIII (1524-5).
Indenture at head is dated 12 April 16 Hen VIII (1525)

m. 3: Cosgrove

27 payers, all but one on goods and wages. The exception is Anthony Furthowe, lands, £8. 8s. Neither he nor anyone else said to be Furtho (nor anyone said to be of Cosgrove). Total is 74s. 10d. Larger payers in goods:

PRO , E 179/155/140 Gen Topic 1524

The other assessment for 16  Hen. VIII (1524-5). Less damaged than E 179/155/130. Legible almost throughout.

What is probably the entry for Furtho, immediately after Stoke Bruerne at the (faded) bottom of a membrane.

3 names, 40s. 8d.

Valor Eccl. (Rec. Com.). IV. 328. Church 1535-6

1535-6 Deanery of Preston. The Rectory of Furthoo (Thomas Ball incumbent) is valued at: tithes and communal obligations £7  3s; Synodal dues and procurations for the archdeaconry of Northampton 3s. remainder £7; thence for tithes 14s.

p.330 The Rectory of Furthoo was appropriated by the Carthusian Priory of Coventry

NRO, F.III.8 Econ. Hist. Mills 1535

26 March 1535. Anthony Furtho of Cosgrave gent. and Eliz his wife; to Thomas Elyott of Wolverton milner. Sale by Thomas of his lease etc of a house and milne called a breast milne called Cuttell Mylne in Furtho, Anthony to pay Thomas 26s 8d rent p.a. for 29 years which rent is to be paid by Anthony’s tenant James Ames, Couper, in Stony Stratford in Wolverton parish.

PRO, E 315/365 Honor c.1542?

f.35 Furtho and Cosgrave

The Lady Throgmorton, [Blank] Kerby gent. and William Furtho gent. holding his mansion house with divers pastures and grounds [in] Furtho and divers lands and tens. in Cosgrave and Stony Stratford holden by the said lady and Kerby aforesaid of the said honor do yield in … plainly of rent year by year 20s (probably) damage at RH edge of page).

NRO, FH 148, p.240 Misc. Medieval Refs 1548

Fine, Mich. 2 Edw, VI, between Robert Mors quer. And Richard Nele gent, and others defs., of Ten, in Cosgrove and Furtho.

Cal. Pat. R. 1549-51. 269 1550 Manor (Hospitallers)

1550. 15 December. Grant under the deal of augmentations to Ralph Sadler of various ex-monastic lands (listed) formerly leased by King Henry VIII to Henry and Fances Jermyngham, including 9 acres of land in Furthoo, and the chapel and 1 acre pf land of Yardely Gobyns.

PRO, E. 318/35/1921 Honor 1550 (Hospitallers)

Parties. For grant to Sir Ralph Sadleyr kt. Request dated 6 Dec. 4 Edward VI (1551)

m.41:

Parcel of the possessions of the late Preceptory of Dingley:

Cosgrove:

Rent of 9a. land, meadow and pasture in Puxley Field on Stratcher Hoarne in ten Robert Adington, rent 3s. 4..

Rent of 7a, arable and 2. 5a. meadow and a parcel of pasture called Le Wyllis in the fields of Cosgrove on ten. Alexander Borne, rent 7s.

Furtho:

Rent of two closes in the pa. of Furtho, of which one is called Temple Close, and the other close there abutting against the said close beyond the lane called Temple Lane, in ten John Hilliar, rent 2s.

Also a piece of meadow in ‘Barton’, 6s. 8d.

NRO, FH 148, p. 262   Misc. Medieval Refs 1555

Fine, Easter 1 & 2 Ph. & Mary, between John Becham quer and Thomas Pigott gent, def., of ten in Cosgrove and Furtho.

B L Add Ch 25149 Other Estates 1555  

1555. Writ to the Sheriff of Northampton to enforce the fulfilment of covenants by Thomas Sygett [Pygott] to John Becham concerning lands in Cosgrove and Furtho.

PRO, C 142/124/150 Manor 1559

Writ 7 Feb. 1 Eliz. (1559): Anthony Furtho esq.
Inq. taken at Northampton 29 March 1 Eliz. (1559). Anthony was seised in demesne in the manor of Furtho with appts., and of one mess., 300a. land, 100a. pasture, 30a. meadow, and three asserts in Furtho, East Pury, Passenham, Cosgrove and Yardley, Yardley Gobion. And being thus seised, by his writing dated 13 Oct. 17 Hen. VIII (1525) between John Ingoldesby and John Elwys gents. (1) and Anthony (2), enfeoffed (1) in manor and advowson of Furtho and all lands and tens. in Yardley Gobion and East Pury, to stand seised after the death of Katherie Brokesby to the use of (2) and the heirs male of Anthony and Elizabeth his then wife; remainder in default to heirs male of William Furtho and then to right heirs of (2). Deed shown to jury.

The manor of Furtho is held of the Queen and at the time of Anthony's death was held of King Philip and Queen Mary as of the Duchy of Lancaster for half a knight's fee, and is worth £8 p.a. beyond charges.

The lands and tens. in Passenham are held in like manner by fealty for all service, and are worth 4s. 4d. (not 3s. 4d.).

The lands and tens. in Cosgrove are held of the Queen (formerly King and Queen) as of the earldom of Dorset by fealty, and are worth 30s. p.a.

The lands and tens. in Yardley and East Pury are held of the Queen by fealty, and are worth 40s. p.a. Anthony held nothing else in Northants. He died 24 Nov. last (1558). Thomas Furtho is his son and heir, and was aged 23 and more at time of Anthony's death.

NRO, FH 201, ff. 12v 14 Manor 1559

Inq. taken at Northampton 29 March 1 Eliz. (1559) after the death of Anthony Furtho gent. Anthony was seised in his demesne as of fee in the manor of Furtho, and in one mess., 300a. land, 100a. pasture, 30a. meadow, and three assarts in Furtho, Eastpury, Passenham, Cosgrove and Yardley Gobion. He was thus seised by a writing dated 13 Oct. 16 Hen. VIII (1524) made between John Ingoldsby and John Elmes gents. (1), and Anthony (2), by which (2) enfeoffed (1) in the manor of Furtho with appts. and the advowson of the same church, and in all lands and tens. in Yardley Gobion and East Fury, to stand seised after the death of Katherine Brokesbye to the use of Anthony and the heirs male of him and Elizabeth and his wife, successive remainders in default to the heirs of Anthony Littmer, William Furtho, the heirs of Anthony Furtho and Elizabeth, and the right heirs of Anthony.

The manor of Furtho is held of the present Queen and at the time of Anthony's death was held of King Philip and Queen Mary in right of the Queen as of her Duchy of Lancaster by half a knight's fee. And is worth yearly beyond charged £8.

The lands and tens. in Passenham are held of the Queen likewise by fealty for all services, and are worth beyond charges 4s. 4d.

The lands and tens. in Cosgrove are held of the present Queen and at the time of Anthony's death were held of King Philip and Queen Mary in right of the Queen as of her Earldom of Dorset by fealty, and are worth beyond charges 30s.

The lands and tens. in Yardley and Eastpury are held of the present Queen and at the time of Anthony's death were held of King Philip and Queen Mary in right of the Queen as of her Earldom of Warwick by fealty, and are worth beyond charges 40s.

Anthony died 24 Nov. last; Thomas Furtho is his son and next heir and at the time of Anthony's death was aged 23 years or more.

PRO, C 3/64/24 1564-5 Manor

Complaint (undated) by Thomas Furtho gent. Father Anthony Furtho was seised of estates in Stony Stratford, Wolverton and Calverton, also in Cosgrove, and Wyboston and Eyton (Beds.). He died and premises ought to come to orator as son and next heir. But immediately after Anthony's death Elizabeth Furtho, wife of Anthony and mother of orator, entered into premises for term of her life by an assurance from Anthony. Your orator knew nothing of any assurance but let his mother occupy premises, although to his great loss. He asked her for evidence but she produced none. She let capital houses and other premises fall into decay. Orator began suits against his mother; both submitted to arbitration of John Wake, Thomas Pygott and Peter Gray.

They found that Elizabeth should before St John Baptist next after date of award make a demise of Bucks. and Beds. premises and those in Cosgrove (except one mess. in occ. George Flower) to orator from Lady Day then last past for term of 40 years, paying £20 p.a. for Bucks. and Beds. estate and £6 7s. 4d. for Cosgrove. And should make an estate in reversion after her death to your orator of premises in Cosgrove and Yardley Gobion which were purchased by Anthony and Elizabeth. Also that Elizabeth should make a recovery of the manor of Knypton (Leics.), with reversion to orator.

Arbitration dated 26 May 1 Eliz. (1559). She refuses to implement award.

With a fair copy of the complaint. Next item on file is writ ordering JPs to take answer of Elizabeth, who is unable to come to London, 24 Jan. 7 Eliz. (1565).

Her answer is last item on file. Complainant is impoverishing his poor mother, whom he ought to be relieving. Defendant is bound in great sum by bond to execute arbitration. Complainant can get his money from this by common law. Asks for case to be dismissed.

Wyboston is a manor in Eaton Socon. Nothing in VCH Beds. iii account of Eaton re Furtho, but general index has scatter of refs. in vol. ii (224 etc) to family.

NRO, FH 148, p. 315  Misc. Deeds 1567

Fine Mich. 9 & 10 Mich., between Peter Palmer gent quer. And Robert Lee gent. and others defs. Of ten. In Cosgrove and Furtho.

PRO, E 326/12787 Misc. Deeds 1567

Final concord octave of Michaelmas 9 Eliz. (1567) between Peter Palmer quer. And Robert Le [Lee] gent, Lucy his wife and Thomas Pites defct., concerning one mess., one cottage, two gardens, two orchards, 200a. land, 20a. meadow, 4a. pasture with appts. In Cosgrave and Furtho. Robert, Lucy and Thomas acknowledge premises to be of the right of Peter, who had them of the gift of Robert, Lucy and Thomas, who quitclaimed for themselves the heirs of Robert. Peter granted to Thomas the same premises from Michaelmas next following the death of Elizabeth Dowes late wife of Baldwin Dowse gent. for term of 21 years, paying to Peter yearly rent of £4 13s 4d.

PRO, E 309/3/9 Eliz./3/3 Crown Lease 1567

Recites lease 23 Feb. 7 Edward Vi (1553) to Gregory Mutton of mess., 26a. land, 1a meadow in Occ. Henry Conquest in Potterspury; and mess., 14a. land, 1a. meadow in occ. William Bardeney; and mess, 14a. land, 1a. meadow in occ. John Ingram; all parcel of manor of Potterspury parcel of the lands and possessions called Warwick’s Lands. Term 21 years. Rents 24s. 3d., 14s. 5. 5d., 12. 8d

Gregory’s interest acquired by William Smyth alias Kent. Fine £19 14d. (sic, not 14s.).

Lease to William of the same three premises, parcel of the manor of Potterspury; also one toft and close called Wheteleys, 3.5a land, 5r. meadow in Cosgrove in occ. John Addington (19s. 4d.); and one piece of land next to the pinfold in Potterspury late in occ. of Henry Addington (2s.); and one mess. And 20a. land in Yardley in occ. Richard Woodward parcel of the manor of Morend and parcel of the possessions late purchased of William Parr kt and formerly annexed to the honor of Grafton (15s. 10d.).

Term 21 years. Same rents as in earlier lease; insert new rents above.

Dated 8 May 9 Eliz.

NRO, F.XII.1, f. 8v Manor 1567-8

In a box marked F. Release of common made by freeholders of Furtho and of highways and Sir Robert Banestre’s fine, viz.:

10 Eliz. (1567-8). Two deeds in Latin importing two releases of common by freeholders of Cosgrove. (Marked A and B).

NRO, V 2 Misc Deeds 1569      

12 Eliz [1569-70].

RL and QC from Thomas Pytte of Eastpury yeoman, High Emerson, Robert Emerso, John Burton, Walter Rivesse and Richard Savebie all of Cogrove husbandmen, and Wm Gunthorpe of Cosgrove smith, Robert Bannyshe of Cosgrove tailor, and Robert Eiden of Haversham tailor, to Thomas Furtho of Furtho gent.

All titles to Doosehouse field, alia Peartreefield and Eirestocking. Common land.

NRO, FH 148, p. 326 Misc. Deeds 1571

Fine, Hilary 12 Eliz., between Nicholas Throgmorton kt quer, and Thomas Furtho esq. and other def., of ten. In Cosgrove and Furtho.

NRO, FH 148, p. 326 Misc. Deeds 1571

Fine, Easter 13 Eliz., between William Hughes gent. quer. And Thomas Furtho and other def., of ten. In Cosgrove, Futho and elsewhere.

NRO, FH 148, p. 326 Misc Deeds 1571

Fine, Hilary 13 Eliz., between Thomas Furtho esq. quer., and Nicholas Thogmorton kt and others def., of ten. In Furtho.
But not apparently also in Cosgrove, although the previous fine the same term does relate to both.

NRO, F.XII. 1, f. 8 Manor 1571

1 Feb. 13 Eliz. (1571). Feoffment from Wm Hughs gent. to Thomas Spencer of 1a. 3r. land in Furtho.

25 March 13 Eliz. (1571): Feoffment from Robert Emerson to Thomas Furtho of 1a. land in Furtho.

Henry Rigby's conveyance of 1a. 1r. land in Furtho to Thomas Furtho.

Hugh Emerson to Thomas Furtho of one headland and half an acre of land in Furtho.

John Mayhoo to Thomas Furtho of 3r. ground.

Richard Browne to Thomas Furth() of 2a. land in Furtho.

John Boughton to Thomas Furtho of 1.5a. land in Furtho.

John Beachim to Thomas Furtho of 3a. land in Furtho

25 May 13 Eliz. (1571). Anne Earle to Thomas Furtho of 1r land in Furtho.

14 July 13 Eliz. (1571). Thomas Spencer to Thomas Furtho, not executed.

14 July 13 Eliz. (1571). Hugh Emerson to Thomas Furtho, not executed.

Cal. Pat. R. 1569-72. 349. Other Estates 1572

1572. 8 March. Grant in fee simple to Richard Hill and William James of various lands and rents (listed), including Potterpirye, Cosgrave and Furthoo, given for a priest, an obit or lamp in the church there.

NRO, F.XII.1, f.8v Manor 1572

Marked C. 2 Sept. 14 Eliz. (1572). Counterpart of indre of covenants between Thomas Furtho (1) and Robert Lee,  William Furtho, Hugh Emerson, Robert Emerson, Henry Rigby, John Beachim, John Mayhoe, Thomas Spenser, Richard Browne, John Boughton and Anne Earle (2), wherein Thomas Fortho covenants to set forth, but and bound to the said Robert Lee etc 20a. arable land in the common fields of Cosgrove and Furtho.

D. 28 Sept. 14 Eliz. (1572). Parties (2) in preceding release to (1) of an ancient passage or way leading from Cosgrove through the manor of Furtho to the queen's highway called Watling Street.

E. 29 Sept. 14 Eliz. (1572). Bond from John Mayhoe to Thomas Furtho in £10 not to make use of the way or passage as above with any cattle etc.

F. 29 Sept. 14 Eliz. (1572). John Beachim bond to Thomas Fortho as preceding.

NRO, FH 144, ff. 126v-128v Clarke Estate 1575

IPM of Henry Clarke gent., d. 15 April 16 Eliz. (1574), and William is his son and heir aged 28. Inq. Taken 28 May 17 Eliz. (1575). Ref. 101.

Eastpury alias Potterspury: Rector and church late of the Carthusian Priory of Coventry now dissolved, and afterwards annexed to the honor of Grafton, with all tithes etc to the same church belonging.

Eastpury, Yardley Gobion, Cosgrove, Furtho, Moorend and Old Stratford: 4 mess., 4 tofts, 60a. land, 10a. meadow, 10a. pasture, held of the Queen as of the manor of East Greenwich in free socage and not in chief. Worth p.a. £20.

NRO, FH 148, P. 353 Misc. Deeds 1576

Fine, Mich. 18 & 19 Eliz., between Hugh Emerson quer. And Thomas Brokes esq. and others def., of ten in Cosgrove, Furtho and elsewhere.

NRO, F.XII.1, f. 8 Manor 1576

24 Feb. 18 Eliz. (1576). Bargain and sale enrolled between John Duddly and John Ayscough (1) and Thomas Furtho (2), whereby (1) conveys to (2) all woods, underwoods and woodlands called Barnefields alias Brouneswood cont. 8a.

PRO, E 309/6/19 Eliz. /24/2 Crown Lease 1577

A lease to John Newett of land, meadow, pasture etc. in Furtho in a close there called Innlands in ten. Thomas Furtho, parcel of the manor of Morende late parcel of the possessions of lord Parr marquess of Northampton and now annexed to the honor of Grafton. Term 21 years. Rent 6s. 8d

Dated 15 July 19 Eliz. (1577)

No prior lease of the Furtho land recited.

NRO ZB 5/3-13  Misc 1578           

Series of deeds from a solicitor relating to an estate in Cosgrove, Furtho and Potterspury. Mainly Cosgrove with some strips in the common fields of Potterspury.

NRO ZB 5.3 Misc. Deeds 1578

30 May 1578. Deed of partition between Thomas Furtho of Furtho, gent and Hugh Emerson of Cosgrove, husbandman. Emerson shall hold farm and lands in Cosgrove and Furtho in ten. Thomas French tog. with farm called Marsyes now or late in ten. Richard Marsy and rent for £10 out of house of John Meo tog. With all arable land etc belonging to farm. Furtho shall hold farm in Cosgrove and Furtho in ten. Thomas Bignell tog with the other farm in Cosgrove and Furtho in ten. John Rushed tog. With lands except as excepted in terrier; attached is terrier of lands allotted to Emerson.

PRO E 211.529 Deeds 1578      

6 Oct 20 Eliz (1578). Thomas Furtho of Furtho esq (1); John Arden of Potterspury, gent (2)

(1) In conson of 3r of arable land in pa of Furtho given him in exchange by (2) grant in exchange to (2) half an acre of arable in pa Eastpury in Dunfeilde on the furlong called Longe Lot. Thomas Dorne alias Thorne E, butting N and S on Mynge Way; also one other rood lying on Little Hall Furlong, the Queen W, now in ten, John Warrington, and the lord of Furtho E, butting on Shore Meade brook N.

Of the 3r given by (2) in exchange, 2r lie together in the new pasture on a furlong called Nether Street Furlong, butting NE on the Queen’s highway that leads to Northampton, the lord of Furtho E and W with his lands which he has exchanged with others.

Witn: Richard Addington, Richard Harrington, Ingoldsby, John Rush and Edward Springall the writer hereof.

Signed by Thomas Furtho

Endorsed (contemp): The exchange between Mr Fourtho and John Arden.

Part of a long series of Arden Estate deeds, another of the Inclosure exchanges.

PRO, E 310/20/100/42 Crown Lease 1589

One coppice of HM adjoining to the forest of Whittlewood sometime parcel of the possessions of [Blank] Furtho esq.

Notwoode Coppice (23a.) set with underwood of nine years growth whereof the underwood growing in one acre will but suffice for the hedging and fencing of the said wood for the reparation of the spring when the underwood shall be fallen, and therefore not here valued, 22a. residue at 2s. 6d. the acre yearly comes to 55s. p.a.

Memo: If the premises happen to be demised will be requisite to reserve timber trees and timber-like saplings of oak, and sufficient staddles per acre as per statute. Lessee to be bound to encoppice and inclose every wood sale to maintain inclosure, without suffering any horse or other cattle to pasture therein, that may hurt the spring, as per statute. Lessee must within a year enrol his lease with Auditor (for rent) and Surveyor (for performance of covenants). 17 Jan. 1588/9.

2 Feb. 1588/9: Rent 55s. Fine nil. Make a lease to Francis

Flower esq. for 21 years, rent as above, usual wood covenants.

Note at foot: Francis Flower holds of the queen etc.

NRO, Grant (li) N 7 (x 5325) = FXIII. 16 (13) 1593

Found by complete chance when trawling through Grant Litchborough for Deanshanger 26.5.99: C18 copy of: A Description of the Boundaries of the Parish of Furtho.

Heading inside: A true note of the circuit or perambulation of the parish of Furtho set down 28 May 1593.

From Perry Field Gate along freeboard to Ayres Stocking Corner which Perry and Furtho do part; along the highway crossing the end of Nomans Furlong, and so following the Ridgeway along the head of the same furlong; from thence following a mead leading westward to the Old Mortar Pit; crossing the pit northward along the furrow of the hadland to the end of a close called Smythes alias Fesmore his close of Yardley, and then including certain waste grounds at the west end of the said close, also including the same close, and following a gutter leading down to Black Pitt; and from thence to Thatcham Hedge; and so along the river side to a cross opposite to the end of Long Reves Hadland, and from thence up another Hadland called Stockings; and crossing from thence upon a Knowl overthwart the furlong called the Long Stocking, including vi leas from the cross and so to the nether end of Blackland Slade furlong; and from thence crossing the nether end of the said furlong to a know shotting through the middle of Blackland Slade and by a gate leading through the same slade to the other end of John Mayhood his willows, and from thence including the leas up a mean by Bushcade, and at the upper end of the same land cross over the gutter to a balk leading by another gutters crossing along to Mug Bowden up to Thomas Spencer's Hede and so along the said hedge up to Northampton Way and so along the said way from thence crossing a ridge way betwixt two furlongs called the Sharpes, including the Upper Sharp and on lands on the Nether Sharpe next the Barnewells; and crossing the nether end of the said ten lands over to Barnewells Way; ad so along up Barnewells way to the upper end of Nether Sharpe, up a balk on the Upper Sharp, excluding the ii lands betwixt the said balk and Barnewells Way up to Hanslope way; and so along Hanslope Way to Quarry Bridge and from thence following the highway till you come over against Church Hedge into a ridgeway called Bistle Way, from thene up the hadland of Shrobb Furlong including the said hadland with the said Shrobb Furlong, and so along the same furlong up to a balk crossing to the Hermitage betwixt the land belonging to the said Hermitage on the NW side and th land of Thomas Emerson on the SE side, and rom the said balk over the hedge into Watlin Street and so along the Watlin Street unto Byards Watering Ford and including Byards watering Close and so along the inside to the said close into Varses Nether Spinney to the nether corner of Barn Field, and so up along the last side of the said close including Furtho Green with Cartan Land to the upper of the said Barn Field, and from thence crossing ridgeway down a side line balk including v land betwixt the said balk and Woodville's Close, and down the said balk straight to a willow tree, growing by a gutter in Yardley Field, and so crossing the said gutter along the freeboard called Peartree Balk including one ley Dove House Pasture, up to a stile against the middle of the said pasture, and so crossing westward from the said stile by a cross hedge and so through the said hedge into a certain arable piece inclosed along a balk including five lands in the tenure of Wm Clark gent. belonging to Flemmings Farm in Pury and so from the said balk straight over into part of a close belonging Flemmings farm; and so crossing by an old ditch about the middle of the said close by certain sallows growing upon the said ditch into a close called Hilliards Close excepting the south part of the said close by mention of an old ditch, and from the said close up along the hedge including the closes and crossing the Temple Land; and from thence along the freeboard including the closes on the other side of the same lane down by the brook side including the several grounds of the lord of Furtho to Perry Field Gate.

NRO. F.XIII. 16 (13) General Topic 1593

Bounder of parish of Furtho, 28 May 1593. Found 12:8.97 , wrapped with rest of F.XIII.16, although much earlier and not referred to in Exchequer procs. of 1668-9. Not clear how it belongs: not listed as part of F.XIII.16 and not itself numbered. Numbered by staff with next F.XIII.16. -  sub-number.

A true note of the circuit and perambulation of the parish of Furtho set down the 28 May 1593.

From Perry field gate along the freeboard to Eyres Stockinges Corner where Perrie and Furtho part.

And from thence along the highway crossing the end of No Mans Furlong.

And so following the Ridge Way along the head of the same furlong.

And from thence following a meare leading westward to the old mortar pits.

And so crossing the said pits northward along the furrow of the headland to the end of a close called Smythes alias Fesmore his close of Yardley, and there including certain waste ground at the west end of the said close, also including the same close and following a gutter leading down to black pits.

And from thence to Thactham hedge.

And so along the river side to a cross opposite to the end of long Reves headland and from thence up another headland called Stockins.

And crossing from thence upon a knowle overthwarte the furlong called the long Stockins including six leas from the cross and so to the nether end of Blackland slade furlong.

And from thence crossing the nether end of the said furlong to a knowle shooting through the middle of Blackland slade and by a gutter leading through the said slade to the nether end of John Mayhood his willows and from thence including three leas.

Up a meatr by Rufheades land and at the upper end of the same lands cross over the gutter to a balk, leading by another gutter crossing along to Mugg Bowden up to Thomas Spencers hedge and so along the said hedge up to Northampton way, and so along the said way from thence crossing a ridge way betwixt two furlongs called the Sharpes including the Upper Sharpes and ten lands of the Nether Sharpes next to Barn wells Way

And crossing the nether end of the said ten lands over to Barnewells Way.

And so along up Barnewells Way to the upper end of the Nether Sharpes, up a balk on the upper Sharpes excluding two lands betwixt the said balk and Barnewells way up to Hanslope Way.

And so along Hanslope Way to Quarrin Bridge and from thence following the highway till you come over against Church Hedge.

Into a ridge way called Prestle Way from thence up the headland of Shrobb Furlong including the said headland with the Shrobb Furlong and so along the same headland up to a balk crossing to the Hermitage betwixt the land belonging to the said Hermitage on the north west side and the land of Thomas Emerson on the south east side.

And from the said balk over the hedge into Watlin Street and so along Watlyn Street unto Byards Watering ford and including Byards Watering Close.

And so along the inside of the said close into Vauses Nether Spynnye following the gutter and including the whole spinney to the nether corner of Barnfields and so up along the south east side of the said close including Furtho green with certain land to the upper corner of the said Barnfields.

And from thence crossing a ridgeway down to a side lying balk including five lands betwixt the said balk and Woodviles Close and down the said balk straight to a willow tree growing by a gutter in Hardley Field and so crossing the said gutter along the freeboard called Peatree balk including one lea in Dovehouse pasture up to a stile against the middle of the said pasture.

And so crossing westward from the said stile by a cross hedge and so through the said hedge.

And into a certain arable piece enclosed along a balk including five lands in the tenure of William Clarke gent. belonging to Flemminges Farm in Perrie, and so from the said balk straight over into part of a close belonging to the said Flemmings Farm.

And so crossing by an old ditch about the middle of the said close by certain ashes growing upon the said ditch, into a close called Hilliards Close excluding the south part of the said close by mention of an old ditch, and from the said close up along the hedge including the closes and crossing the Temple Lane.

And from thence along the freeboard including the closes on the other side of the same lane down to the brook side including the several grounds of the lord of Furtho to Perrie Field Gate.

Six marks or signatures at end.

Endorsed: Furtho Bounds in C17 hand.

N’hamp A 6553 Cat Anct D iv 52 1600  

Confirmation by William Bradshawe of Couesgrave, clerk, parson of the parish church of Couesgrave, to Edward Furthoo of Furthoo, esquire, in performance of an agreement between the said Edward, Nicholas Ryall, clerk, parson of the parish church of Furthoo, and John Mowlsoe of Couesgrave, husbandman, of the one part, and the aforesaid William, of the other part, of land and pasture in Furthoo lying “in the new pasture” formerly given in exchange or otherwise by Christopher Emerson, late parson of the parish church of Couesgrave, deceased, to Thomas Furthoo, esquire, deceased, father of the said Edward.

3 September, 12 Elizabeth

English, signed, seal.

Endorsed Names of Witnesses to sealing and delivery.

Establishes that Thomas was dead by 1600.

NRO, Map 4210 General Topic c.1600

This is early C18 copy of map of Whittlewood, apparently of c. 1600. mainly stops at A5 but shows one piece of green (for woodland) on Furtho side of road opposite Shrob Lodge (in Passenham). This is an inverted L-shape which must represent Knotwood. Includes the house shown as Knotwood on OS 1:25,000 (on A5) and five fields adjoining. Mark up on 1:25,000.

No house shown on 4210. Labelled Coule Grove 42.3.36.

Woodland on opposite side of road, to W of Shrob Lodge, is called Old Castle Coppice (63.3.12) and Young Castle Coppice (63.0.0). These are fairly close to the moated site on A5 but not the site itself. Both these coppices, and the others around Shrob Lodge, will have to be treated as part of Passenham, not part of Furth(o and Old Stratford.

See notes on Old Stratford gen. top. for houses on Passenham side of A5 at OS. There is a house shown detached from rest of village corresponding to what is called the Black Horse Inn on OS 1885. Opposite this on OS is the farm house in extreme S corner of Furtho (i.e. the glebe property tenanted by W.W. Dickens). This is not shown on Map 4210 but then neither is other building on the N side of Watling Street further up towards Potterspury, even though houses in Old Stratford on N side of road (i.e. Cosgrove side) are shown.

NRO ZB 5.4 Deeds 1603           

1 Aug 1603. Deed Poll. John Whaley, clerk, parson of Cosgrove, confirms to Edward Furtho 3a exchanged between Chr Emerson, clerk, late parson of Cosgrove, and Thomas Furtho.

NRO. ZA 9206 Econ Hist. 1604

Account book of Edward Furtho of Furtho, 1604-19, as described by Joan Wake and presumably presented by her. Oldish, very thorough repair and rebinding of tall folio ledger, starting with rents received LD 1604. Continued with years ending LD to 1607, then an account ending Mich. 1607 and so on to Mich. 1611. Then back to LD from LD 1612 to LD 1617. Then back to Mich. 1617 and Mich. 1618; LD account in 1619. Appears to be repetitive but go through each year.

The book is folioed in modern pencil, presumably when repaired and bound.

NRO, ZA 9206, ff. 2 -3v: Michaelmas 1604 rental Econ Hist. 1604

Robert Clifton renting site of manor etc, John Style renting Homestall Close and Over Cuttles, John at oake renting inlands and Middle Cuttle Meadow, Richard Vale an Clem. Clare renting Dovehouse Field. In other words, nothing in hand at the top of the Furtho rental. Bottom of this page missing, so no Cosgrove section, but apparently nothing in hand.

Other income from labour rents and payments in kind etc a later years.

f. 1r-v is the remnant of a Lady Day 1604 rental. Just includes the sections for labour rents and rents in kind, and outgoings. Bottom of page torn. But seems to be same as later years.

NRO, ZA 9206, ff. 4 -5v: Lady Day 1605 rental Econ Hist. 1605

Robert Clifton for farm of site of manor with divers premises etc £3 10s. [Blank] for Homestall Close and Over Cuttles £10. [Blank] for Inlands and Middle Cuttle Meadow £25. Richard Vale and Clem. Clare for Dovehouse Field, £7. Then list of tenanted fields. Steaninges yields nothing because in my mother's hands. Mill ruinous, nothing from wood sales, herbage, warren etc. No court held.

Other income entries and outgoings as in later years. List of wages to workmen includes 30s. to Hensman the freemason, 10s. to Hickman the molecatcher, and 18s. for quickset gatherers (with 10,000 written in). Other headings as in later years but no payments. Similar list of 'Provision for building': tiles, lathes, window bars, crest table from Weldon, porch stuff from Weldon, 'vyneolls' (finials) from Weldon, finishing table from Weldon for chimney tops. Note probably added at end: Lime kiln to be made. What looks like a memo at end of rental: Estates: Assarts to be remembered, copyholds to be purchased or else to be renewed.

NRO, ZA 9206, ff. 6 – 8v: Michaelmas 1605 rental Econ Hist. 1605

Site of manor let to Robert Clifton with divers demesne premises, meadows and common pastures, for the half-year £3 10s.

Homestall Close and over Cuttles (£10) has no tenant's name but has a 'De ... firmar' entry; nothing explicitly says it is in hand. Same with Inlands and Middle Cuttle Meadow £25, which is next entry. Hieronimus Evans has the Dovehouse Field, £7, which is fourth entry down and the first of the continuous run of tenanted property.

Other income side entries appear to be unchanged, including rents in kind. Under outgoings, three entries under Moor End and East Pury, for 6s 9d (ME), 8d (EP) and 2d (EP). Other entries same as later years. Three children listed under exhibitions.

List of headings for wages to workmen, but no payments against them. Includes freemason, quarryman, thatcher, carpenter, molecatcher, plashers, ditchers and trenchers, quickset gatherers, woodfallers and fagotters, stockers and bankers, sheepwashers, Sheepshearers, woolwinder, mowers, haymakers, cockmaker.

Also no amounts entered against headings for building work: tiles, laths, window bars, crest table [not tackle] from Weldon, porch stuff from Weldon, 'wyneols' from Weldon, finishing table from Weldon for chimney tops.

NRO ZB 5/5 Misc. Deeds 1605  

28 Feb 1604/5. Copy cover to levey a fine between (1) Ellis Emerson of Cosgrove yeoman and Anne his wife, and Arthur Emerson of Cosgrove yeoman; and (2) John Whitmell alias Whitmey of Deanshanger yeoman and John Emerson of Cosgrove yeoman; and (3) Francis Giffard of Hanslope gent. Cov. To levy a fine of mess, lands, tens etc in Cosgrove, Potterspury and Furtho late in ten Ellis Emerson, which he had of gift of father Robert who purchased from Ferdinando Pulton.

NRO ZB 5/6 Misc. Deeds 1605  

20 March 1604/5. Feoffment. John Whitmell alias Whitmey of Deanshanger husbandman and Joh Emerson of Cosgrove yeoman, to John Beacham of Cosgrove yeoman. Close of pasture called Church Close in Cosgrove, 2a, as agreed by indre of covs. 28 Feb 1604/5.

ZB 5/7

20 March 1604/5.

Indre Ellis Emerson of Cosgrove to John Beacham. Close of pasture called Church Close, 2a

NRO, F.XIII.200 Econ. Hist Mill 1605

Sheet of extracts and notes from Potterspury court rolls.

First extract is from a certain book of surveys of the manor, annexed to the honor of Grafton, remaining in the office of Francis Phillips, auditor com. N'ton. Margin: temp. Queen Mary (no exact date). Under rubric: rents of assize, Anthony Furtho 2d. Tenants at will: Anthony Furtho hold certain lands and tens. called Inlonds lying in divers places in the common fields of Furtho, parcel of the manor of Moor End, abutting on Anthony Furtho east and on Catt. Strooke rent at will per annum 11s.

Second extract is from survey of the manor of Potterspury, 3 James [1605-6], under the jury's hands. Potterspury: Edmund (or Edw. for Edward] Furtho esq. holds, by what title the jury are ignorant, a former (quendam, listed as former, unless the original is a scribal error for quidam, certain) watercourse extending from Pury Clark as far as Furtho Mill a distance of a quarter of a mile. How held the jury are ignorant, rent p.a. 2 'sargittes' vulgare 2 flights (?).

Note at end that these two rolls, with others, are in the custody of Mr Thomas Barrowes of Potterspury. The last (vizt that of King James) is in a parchment wrapper. And both are subscribed by Auditor Phillips. Partially erased beneath this: This roll is in the hands of Mr Barrow of Potterspury.

On the back a note of quarterly payments of £5 from Christmas [16]66 to Christmas [16]69 to Mr Riall [rector of Furtho i.e. the modus on the demesne at £20 p.a.].

NRO, ZA 9206, ff. 12 12-14v Michaelmas `607 rental Econ Hist. 1607

Under Furtho more land in hand than later entries: site of manor, Homestall Close, Dovehouse Field, New Pasture, Nether Cuttells and Oxleye all in hand. Also Furtho Green in hand in the draft, but this has been altered to show it let to Richard Clarke. First entry for tenanted land in original draft of text is Richard Troughton for Inlandes.

Entries at end for mill etc all nil returns, as noted for 1608.

No additional memos at end of Cosgrove for Marsies and Buckes farm, evidently not bought by this date.

Outgoings as in later entries: only two under Pury and Moor End: one to lord of Moor End 6s 9d and one to lord of East Pury 2d.

At end, with wages etc a section for Provision for Building: tiles, slates, window bars, crest tackle (?), porch stuff, furnishings, chimney tops, [torn] stone. Only amount entered against this against last (stone) for 2 ovens and carriage 40s.

f. 11r-v is what looks like a fragment surviving from Lady Day 1607 account: only includes assise rents, labour rents and payments in kind (e.g. the deer in recompense for damage). Usual list of wages etc at end, including boarding and schooling for son Edward and daughters Nitie and Anne.

NRO ZB 5/8 Misc. Deeds 1607-8           

27 Nov 1607. Cov to levy a fine. (1) Thomas Emerson of Cosgrove yeoman and Margaret his wife; (2) Thomas Spencer of Cosgrove; (3) John Burde of Moorend Potterspury, yeoman; (4) Francis Archar and William Mowlso of Cosgrove husbandman.

(1) Cov to levy a fine to (4) of 22a 1r land in fields of Cosgrove, Furtho and Potterspury. Full abuttals of each parcel set out in list.

NRO, ZA 9206 Eon Hist. 1608

Work backwards from Mich. 1608 accounts. First one is Lady Day 1608, ff. 15-16v. Check for differences. In Furtho rents, entry for land let to Paul Boughton and Richard has been interlined with tenants' names; underlying text has this plot (3rd on list) in hands of lord, whereas in fact let at LD 1608. A few other tenants' names changed.

Under Cosgrove the entry for the recently purchased ten. called Marsies has been written in as a new item, as has the memo that a capital mess. in Cosgrove called Buckes Farm with land and meadow is also newly purchased and is in hands of the lord.

Other income side entries (assise rents, rents in kind, labour services) appear unchanged, also outgoings, wages etc. Boarding and schooling just for Nedd and Nitie in the 'exhibitions' section.

NRO ZB 5/9 Misc. Deeds 1608  

29 May 1608. Deed poll, quit claim. Arthur Emerson of Cosgrove yeoman, QC to Edward Furtho of mess with appts in Cosgrove called Marsies and in 22a 1r land and an acre of meadow in fields of Cosgrove, and in Furtho and Potterspury, which Edward Furtho formerly held from Thomas Emerson, Margaret his wife and George their son as is more fully shown in their charter.

NRO, ZA 9206, f. 17 Econ Hist 1608

Rents for half year to Mich. 6 James I. 1608.

Fortho

Site of the manor of Furtho with one close of demesne pasture called Homestall Close and one meadow called Over Cuttles with yards, orchards, gardens and the Fishpond Closes in the hands of the lord, value per half year £8 10s.

8.5a. meadow in Southmeade in the lord's hands, £5 6s 8d.

Of Paul Boughton and Richard Vale for one demesne pasture called the Dovehouse Field, £6.

Of Wm Roleston for one close of demesne meadow called Nether Cuttells with a pightle called Millhome, £3 17s 6d.

Of Richard Trowghton for close of demesne pasture called Inlandes with a meadow called Middle Cuttells £24 10s.

Of Richard Tombs, Widow Davey and John Earle one close of pasture called Ram Close with 1.5a. meadow in Hisworth Meadow £5.

Of Wm Mowlsoe and Wm Moulso one close of demesne pasture called the New Pasture, £10.

Of Michael Lambert one demesne meadow called Oxeleasowe, £4 7s 6d.

Of Robert Archer one close of demesne called Raze Stocking alias Conygrey Close, £4 10s.

Of Wm Hudson two closes called Over Cley Close and Nether Cley Close £7.

Of Richard Wilson alias Clarke one demesne close called Fortho Grene with Sheanesmore and Barnevilles Pightle, £5.

Of Robert Willes one demesne pightle called Woodvills Pightle, 20s.

Of Edward Addington one close of demesne pasture called Fawsells Close with 5a. meadow in Sowthmeade, £8 6s 8d.

Of Richard Warren sen. one demesne meadow called Biardes Watering Close, 23s 4d.

Of Wm Fawscrofte one demesne meadow called Frithwells, £3.

Of Robert Willes one pightle of demesne pasture called Partition Close next to Temple Lane, 16d.

Of Robert Willes tithes of Furtho in a certain field called Handley Field, 3s 4d.

 Of John Hillyar for divers of his closes, 20d.

Of Thomas Scot for a certain parcel of meadow called Hisworth Hooke 5a., 33 4d.

Of the water mill because it is ruinous, Nothing

Of the sale of wood this year in Notwood, Nothing.

Of the herbage of the coppices and spinnies because they are not demised, Nothing.

Of the Warren similarly, because it was not nourished Nothing.

Of the fishery this year, Nothing.

Of the profits of court this year, because it was not held, Nothing.

Of strays this year, 2 nags a black and a gray taken up 8 Dec. at Biardes Wateringe corner and there seised to the lord's use by William Tomalyn.

Of Robert Bignell one ten. in Furtho with all lands and meadows in the common fields of Cosgrove and Furtho 30a. 8s.

Of Thomas Bryer for a moiety of a cottage in the town of Cosgrove in pa. of Furtho, 4s.

Of wm Ashby for the other moiety of the said cottage in Furtho, 2s.

Of Robert Collett for the Hermitage at Old Stratford in the parish of Furtho with lands to my mother, 10s.

Of George Clarke for a demesne close there with lands, 11s.

Cosgrove with Furtho and Old Stratford

Of Robert Archer, widow Newcombe, Anthony Fisher, Wm Mannynge and Robert Bignell, for the rent of one capital mess. in Cosgrove called Leyes formerly Sharples, £22 10s.

John Mowlsoe for ten. with lands £8.
Wm Emmerson for a ten. with lands £5.
Francis Archer for ten. with lands £5.
Widow Newcombe for ten. with lands 52s.
Robert Archer for ten. with lands 6s 6d.
Richard Spencer for ten. with lands 16s 8d.
William Mannynge for ten. with lands 4s.
Anthony Stonebridge for lands in Cosgrove 30s.
John Horwoode for mess. with close in Cosgrove 20s.
William Tomlin for mess. with close there 8s.
William Tomlin for close formerly Rosses called Rivesses Pightle 20d. (Line crossed through] Nicholas Waighte for Barvilles Close formerly Peddars 20s.
Thomas Richardson for one close in Old Stratford in pa. of Cosgrove 5s.
Richard Emmerson for Butyarde Leyes formerly Thomas Baylie 10s.
Tenement in Cosgrove newly purchased called Marsies with lands and meadow, 46s 8d.

Memo. that one capital mess. in Cosgrove called Buckes Farm with divers lands, meadows and pasture newly purchased is in the hand of the lord and is worth [Blank)

Yardley Gobion with East Pury

Michael Tassell, 10.5a. 15s 9d.
Richard Tombes, 9a. 3r. 14s 10d 5d
Richard Warren, 10a., 15s
Robert Willes, 6a. 3r., 10s. 1.5d
Nicholas Waight, 9a. it 13s 10.5d. 6d.
Robert Clifton, 3a., 4s 6d
Widow Davye, la., 18d.

Above bracketed with comment: farmers of 50a. arable land in the fields of Pury and Yardley Gobion, £3 16s.

Edward Goodman, his ten. with lands 24s 2d
Richard Scott and Richard Atterbirey, farm of the site of my manor in Yardley called Hawleyard with divers meadows and pasture appertaining, parcel of my mother's jointure payable to Robert Chubnoll, 50s.
Thomas Whitton for 4a. meadow in Kingsholme parcel of Hawleyarde and parcel of my mother's jointure payable half to myself and half to my brother Chubnoll, 33s 4d.
Robert Willes for farm of one ten. in Pury parcel of my mother's jointure, 20s.
Richard Earle for a cottage newly built on the waste there, 2s.

Passenham

John Barrowe farm of one assart in pa. Passenham in forest of Whittlewood: my mother's jointure, 50s.
George Thorne, assart there called Cox Stockinges, parcel of my mother's jointure, to my mother 13s 4d, to me 40s.
John Parrett, one house with close in Old Stratford in Passenham pa., parcel of my mother's jointure, to my mother 3s 4d, to me 4s 8d.
George Clarke for 1a. land in the field of Passenham, 20d.

Then sections for Stratford, Wolverton and Calverton (Bucks.) and Eaton Soken with members (Beds.). Line at end for 'Sum of rents of farms' but no figure entered.

Rents of assize of free tenants

Cosgrove with Furtho and Old Stratford
Richard Spencer free rent for his ten. 3s 6d
John Beacham free rent for his ten. 2s
John Meawoode free rent for his ten. 12d
The same John Meawoode for certain lands parcel of Boxyard 6d.
William Lucas free rent for the Breades parcel of Boxyard 2s
John Pye free rent for land parcel of Boxyard 6d.
John Pye free rent for Mill Close parcel of Boxyard 12d.  
Mathew Percivall free rent for Burclose parcel of Boxyard 12d
Thomas Spencer free rent for 1a. land formerly Emerson's on Chappell Furlong, 1 capon.
Thomas Abbott free rent for 1a. land formerly Emerson's on Chappell Furlong, 1 capon.
Robert Bignell free rent of his ten., 1 capon.

Pury with Yardley Gobion
Henry Peddar free rent for land called Puffdore 5d.
Richard Tombs free rent for a house formerly Skribners 6d.
William Boughton free rent for a close formerly Busbyes 2d.
Richard Browne free rent for houses and lands formerly Woodwardes 2.5d.
Thomas Cave alias Smith free rent for house with close anciently Busbies 2d.
Michael Tassell fort a certain close called Knigtons yearly 4d.

Stony Stratford
Five entries, incl. inns called the Red Lion and Cock, also a ten. called the Checkers and another called Hindes.

Eaton Soken
One entry.

Note of one relief: John Brown son of Richard Browne deceased, 5d. Heading for escheats but none entered.

Rents of Grain

In Cosgrove four tenants each pay 1 qtr wheat, 1 qtr barley, 1 qtr rye. Five others listed as paying nothing.

In Stony Stratford three tenants each pay as above, but one other tenant and Boza/ds Farm pay nothing.

Rents of Capons

Lists for Eaton Soken (9 tenants), Cosgrove (14), Fury and Yardley (5) and Stony Stratford (16).

f. 18v:

Rents of Hens

List of 24 tenants (no places) paying rents of two hens each (one person just one hen).

Rents of Straw

Six payments of a load of straw by named tenants but no places.

Rents of Deer

Two people paying one doe each; also The Lieutenant of the Forest (Mr Ogle, crossed out) of Whittlewood out of an accustomed benevolence yearly (out his own benevolence,

crossed out) for damage sustained by the king's deer (done yearly, crossed out), also a doe.

This is the end of the income side of the account for Mich. 1608.

Respites and rents paid out: with marginal headings

Free rents to Pury and Moor End: To the lord of Moor End free rent for land in Furtho yearly 6s 9d; to the lord of East Pury for the watercourse between Pury and Furtho of free rent yearly 2d. Added: To the lord of Moore End free rent for Goodman's Farme in Yardley Gobion paid by himself yearly 1d.

Free rents to the Duchy Court at Helmdon: To the Duke of Lancaster at his court of Helmdon free rent for Ashbies Farm discharged by the tenant 2s.;
for lands in Furtho yearly 4d;
for one ten. in Cosgrove called Buckes Farm, of which formerly Ellis Emerson was tenant, 4d;
for one ten. in Cosgrove of which Wm Emerson is now tenant, paid by himself yearly 4.5d;
one ten. in Cosgrove of which John Moulsoe is tenant, paid by himself, yearly 4d;
William Manning for his ten. in Cosgrove; ten. in Cosgrove of which Wm Tomlin now is tenant, paid by himself, 4d;
Robert Archer for ten. in Cosgrove 2.5d;
Richard Spencer for ten. in Cosgrove 5d.

Free rents to the Lord of Cosgrove:
To the lord of Cosgrove for one ten. in Cosgrove called Leyes Farme discharged by the tenants 10s; for a pightle in Cosgrove called Ph...yarde of which Widow Newcombe is now tenant, paid by herself, 2d.

Serte Silver to the Lord Buckhurst:
To the Lord Buckhurst of rent called Sartsilver for onbe assart in pa. Passenham called Saunders Sart in ten. Edward Goodman annually by himself 5s 10.5d.; assart in Passenham called Hanger Sarte, John Barrow now tenant, 5s; assart in Passenham called Cox Stockinges, George Clarke now tenant, 2s 8d; memo that a certain annual rent of 8d called sert silver at other times was paid by the heirs of Furtho for a third part of a certain parcel of land called the Rowens; memo that an assart called Birdsneste is now exchanged with Henry Peddar and the sert silver to be paid by him, 2s 6d.

Assists to the lord of Calverton for a close at Stratford Bridge foot, a close and cottages (all presumably in Stony).
Memo that the rest of our tenants in Stratford (ex parte Calverton) and lands in Calverton were held of the Priory of St John by suit of court and rents, which prior claims a manor in Calverton, but the suit and rents not now performed because the priory has withdrawn like rent and suit from the heirs of Furtho for lands in Tiffield.

Free rent lands in Eaton Soken: four payments detailed.

Farms rents resolute:
To the lord of Moor End for farm of customary land in the several pastures of Furtho, paid by Browne, Church and others, 2s 6d
To the lord King for farm in fee of one wood in Fuxtho called Notwood cont. 33a., for half a year 27s 6d
To Elizabeth Chibnall for farm of lands parcel of the demesne pasture of Furtho parcel of my mother's jointure, half year, £4 5s.
To Robert Chibnell for farm of the site of the manor of Yardley with lands and meadows 'spectantibus' parcel of my mother's jointure, of which Richard Scott and Richard Atterbury are now tenants, paid in part by the tenants and in part by myself, £3 6s 8d.
To Nicholas Ryall for farm of the tithes and demesne land in Furtho [Blank]
To Elizabeth Chibnoll for farm of one close of demesne pasture in Furtho called Fawsells parcel of my mother's jointure, annually at St Thomas, 35s.

Statute Staple: To Thomas Furtho of Canterbury on 14 Oct. annually during term of 'Trin' years by virtue of a certain statute staple, £50.

Added after Statute Staples: To Thomas Emerson for the thirdes of Anne Emerson in 2a. meadow late purchased of Richard Addington, quarterly 4s.

Servants' Wages: payments to 6 named individuals.

Exhibitions to my children: Schooling for Nedd Furtho and Nity Furtho, exhibition to Anne Furtho.

Taxes to the king: To the king for a subsidy, for a fifteenth, and for provision out of Furtho pastures. (No amounts.)

Taxes to the country: For setting forth soldiers, relief of maimed soldiers, house of correction. (No amounts.)

f. 19v:

Parish taxes: For Mary Watson's board 14s.; for relief to the poor (no amount); repairs to the church (no amount).

Fees: Fee to the sheriff to be quit of juries 5s; fee to the bailiff errant 12d.

Bills and scores: Attorney, mercer, draper, shoemaker, sadler, smith, horse leacher, whittawer, maltmaker, bailey, baker and two named individuals with no trade.

Apparel: For myself, son Nedd, daughter Anne, daughter Nity.

Liveries: Livery 'Clakes' for two servants and a frieze coat for six others.

This is the end of the Mich. 1608 rental.

NRO, ZA 9206, f. 20 Econ Hist 1609

Rental, Lady Day 1609. Check for any major changes from Mich. 1608 rental. Arrangement in identical.

In Furtho mill is still ruinous, also nothing from sale of timber in Notwood, coppices or spinnies, warren, fishery or profits of court. No waifs and strays this year. His mother still has the hermitage in Old Stratford in the parish of Furtho.

In Cosgrove first five tenants are farming capital message called Leyes now Sharpes.
Same memo about cap. mess called Buckes Farm in Cosgrove newly purchased.

f. 20v:

In Yardley cum Pury same entry re 50 acres in fields of Pury and Yardley. My manor in Yardley called Hawleyard mentioned. Passenham and the Bucks. and Beds. entries appear to be unchanged.

f. 21:

Only two rents of assize for free tenements, then on to rents paid in kind, incl. 2 green geese from 16 people (no places). 21 people paid labour services of up to four days each carting, 20 people paid reaping services up to four days each, 21 people paid by haymaking up to four days each. Same deer payments as before: half a buck from one person, half a haunch of the buck, and the lieutenant of the forest of Whittlewood of an accustomed benevolence for damage yearly sustained by the king's deer (half a buck).

NRO, ZA, f. 22: Lady Day 1609 Outgoings

To Lord King for customary land in Furtho held of his manor paid by tenants
To King for farm of Notwood in Furtho; the Chibnells for jointure lands
To Nich. Riall for tithes
To lord of Cosgrove for composition paid annually 'pro relaxione vier' in Furtho (i.e. the former highway?) Also payments for servants' wages, children (schooling and boarding Nedd and Mitie, exhibition for Anne), king's, country and parish taxes, fees, bills, apparel and liveries (two upper servants get livery cloaks). All trades listed again under bills but not all have amounts filled in against them.

NRO, ZA 9206 Econ Hist. 1609

Michaelmas 1609 rental, ff. 22-24v.

In Furtho site of manor and 8a. meadow still in hand: Tenanted land appears to show no change; mill etc still nil at end.

Memo that this year a cow praised at 30s. was seised at Furtho to the lord's use there, as forfeited, being parcel of the goods of one Thomas Robinson mason convicted of felony at the assizes last held at Northampton.

After Cosgrove with Furtho and Old Stratford rent entries a new note: Brownswood Green cont. 100a. pasture whence to me nothing because it is detained, saving a capon rent from Barker and Widow Genninges.

Same entry as before re Hall Yard in Yardley.

Rents of assize as before: no additional place-name detail in Cosgrove with Furtho and Old Stratford. In Fury with Yardley the first name appears to be Pussdore.

Grain rents still made up of 1 quarter of barley, wheat and rye from each of a number of named tenants in each township. Similarly with capons, hens, straw and deer (does this time, not bucks).

Reprises appear to be same as before. Also payments of taxes, bills etc at the end.

NRO, ZA 9206, ff. 25 – 26v Econ Hist 1610

Rental, Lady Day 1610 Furtho rents as before (site of manor etc still in hand). Nil for mill etc at end. No waifs and strays but one felon's goods, viz. Black Jhon and five others £3.

Brownswood Green cont. 100a. from which nothing to me  because it is detained, saving capon from Barker and widow Jennings.

Same labour rents and payments in kind as before: green geese, carting, reaping, mowing, haymaking and deer (bucks).

Reprises as before, except that it is the town of Cosgrove that receives payment for the 'relaxione' (no highways mentioned).

Wages etc include schooling and boarding for Ned and Nightingale (this is second name which appears as Nitie on previous lists) and exhibition for Anne. Also apparel is for self, son Ned and daus. Nightingale and Anne. Very few of headings in this last section have amounts filled in against them.

NRO, ZA 9206, ff. 40 – 41v Econ Hist. 1613

Lady Day 1613 rental. Only significant change is disappearance of daughter Nightingale from exhibition boarding and schooling Ned, whereas previous had exhibition for the daughter (presumably  now married).

ff. 42-44v

Michaelmas 1613. No changes. NB second word in entry beginning Warren is Cunicular. In outgoings section in this rental (as in Mich. 1612) free rent to lord of Moor End for Goodman's Farm in Yardley paid by himself is crossed through. In Mich. 1611 account the entry has been altered by interlining to read: To Moor End rent for customary land in Furtho viz. 8.5ac. In exhibitions, just exhibition for son Edward (who is presumably identical with Ned in previous years).

NRO, ZA 9206, ff. 45-46v Econ Hist 1614

Lady Day No change from previous Lady Day rental.

ff. 47 49v

Michaelmas 1614. This year, under reprises under Moor End only two entries for the first time: to lord of Moor End of free rent for land in Furtho, annually, 6s 9d; to the lord of East Pury for the water course between Pury and Furtho of free rent, yearly 2d. Third entry has disappeared (i.e. the one crossed out in previous two years).

NRO, ZA 9206. Ff. 55 – 56v Econ Hist

Lady Day 1616. The Brownswood Green entry still says yields nothing because it is detained, but adds: colore Comuniae usurpatae (encroachment on commons?). This also appers. in Mich. 1615 as an interlining, but is not in Lady Day 1615 rental. Edward's exhibition back in text in Lady Day 1616 but no payment against entry.

ff. 57-59v

Michaelmas 1616. Income side as previous, including note about encroachment on Brownswood Green. No exhibition for son Edward.

NRO, ZA 9206, ff. 70-71v Econ Hist 1619

Lady Day 1619. No changes. Rental is complete, down to i list of liveries, although not many amounts filled in. Still apparel for some Edward.

This is last rental in the book.

Folded into back cover is a damaged lease of 39 Eliz., engrossed but not executed or exactly dated, from Edward Furtho of premises in Eaton Socon (Beds.), for three years. Definitely not Northants. And behind that a page from a medieval MS book.

PRO, E 315/90/35 Honor 1618-19

One of the vols. of partics. of defective titles.

Northants.: In the minister's accounts of the land and possessions of the King in Northants. 16 James (among others) is contained as follows:

Francis Flower esq. for the rent of all that coppice called Notwood Coppice at 55s. due for one year ending at Michaelmas 31 Eliz. (1589), of which 15s. received the same year. (Leaves) 40s.

Memo.: The sum of 40s. is now answerered and paid by the said Francis Flower unto the hands of HM Receiver General of Northants. as an acquittance hereof under his hand appears. And is accordingly charged to the said Receiver upon his accounts for the year ended Michaelmas 17 James (1619).

Ewd. Furtho’s IPM 1620 includes Notwood as held in socage, with 8s p.a. Bought of Sir John Ramsey & Tho. Emerson, presumably c.1619, and they must have sold on

NRO, F.XIII.5 Manor 1620-1

Copy of IPM of Edward Furtho, son of Thomas and father of the last Edward, taken at Northampton 5 April 19 James (1621). He died 28 Aug. 18 James 11620), leaving Edward his son aged 23. Some marginal notes, inserted here in square brackets.

Seised of manor of Furtho held of the king as of the duchy of Lancaster by service of half a knight's fee; and advowson of church; and also all that hermitage and free chapel of Old Stratford, bought of George Ferme gent. and held of E. Green.; and also of the said chapel of the hermitage; and also divers lands, tens. etc in the parishes and fields of Old Stratford, Cosgrove, Passenham and Furtho formerly belonging to the chapel and hermitage of Old Stratford, purchased by Thomas Furtho esq. deceased, father of Edward Furtho, of George Ferme gent.

Also of one parcel of land called Brownswood Greene (parcel of the priory of Snelsa, purchased of John and William Marsh) in Passenham and Cosgrove, formerly parcel of the possessions of of Snelso Priory, and purchased by Thomas Furtho of John Mershe esq. and William Mershe. Also of all that cottage and parcels of land, woods etc cont. 93 ac. purchased of Thomas Elet and George Merrell [Hermitage House of 1610 sale?]

And of a cap. Mess.Cosgrove, Furtho and Eastpury purchased by Thomas Furtho of Robert Leigh gent. (held of the manor of Cosgrove, rent 9s 8d; this must be the mess. etc in Mr Longvills tenure).

And in the site of the manor of Yardley Gobion called Hall Yard formerly parcel of the manor of Yardley Gobion. And also divers lands, tens. etc in Potterspury, Yardley Gobion and Passenham purchased of Lewis Dive esq., Henry Wikmilne and John Taylor. And also of and in one mess. and farm in Yardley Gobion and divers lands, tens. etc in Yardley Gobion and Purl, purchased by Edward Furtho of Thomas Furtho.

And also of and in all those woods, underwoods and woodlands with appts. called Barnefeilds alias Brooneswood 8ac. in Cosgrove purchased by Thomas Furtho of John Duddeley and John Ayscough. [held in free socage of E. Greenw:]

And also of an in divers mess., lands etc Stony Stratford, Wolverton and Calverton (Bucks.) purchased by William Furtho of Thomas Eltesdon and Edward Brooke and Margery his wife ... Edward Furtho as per a fine Easter 38 Eliz. [indre dated 14 Jan. 38 Eliz. [15961] between Edward Watson esq., George Gascoigne esq., Thomas Gascoigne gent., and Richard Gascoigne quer., and Edward Furtho and Elizabeth deforciants, concerning all the afsd manors, lands, tens. etc, to heirs of Edward and Elizabeth, with remainder to right heirs of Edward, as an indenture of 14 Jan. 38 Eliz. between Edward Furtho and Elizabeth his wife of the first part, and the afsd Edward Watson and the Gascoignes of the other part more fully sets out.

... one capital mess. in Cosgrove formerly by Edward Furtho purchased of Michael Tassell and John Whitmell, and also of an in one mess. and ten. in Furtho and Cosgrove in ten. Robert Bignell, and also of an in other mess and ten. in Cosgrove with appts. in Furtho, purchased by Edward Furtho of Thomas Emerson and Margaret his wife and George Emerson.

And also of and in all mess., tens. and farms in Cosgrove with appts. in Cosgrove and Furtho purchased by Edward Furtho of Thomas Furtho. And also of and in all that coppice, wood, underwood and woodlands called Notwood Coppice, 23a., purchased by Edward Furtho of John Ramsey knt and Thomas Emerson esq.

And lastly the jurors say that Edward Furtho ... died.

And that manor of Furtho with members and the advowson of the church of Furtho were held at the time of his death of the king as of the Duchy of Lancaster by service of half a knight's fee, and was worth £8 p.a.

And that the Hermitage and free chapel of Old Stratford and other premises in Old Stratford, Cosgrove, Passenham and Furtho formerly purchased by Edward Furtho of George Ferne were held by Edward Furtho were held of the king as of the manor of East Greenwich in free socage and not inchief, rendering 2s p.a.

And that the parcels of land called Broneswood purchased by Thomas Furtho of John Mershe and William Mershe were held by Edward Furth.at the time of his death of the king as of the manor of East Greenwich etc, rendering is 4d. And the cottage, lands, woods etc bought of Thomas Elye and George Merrell also held of East Greenwich, rendering 10s

And the capital mess. etc purchased by Thomas Furtho of Robert Lee was held by Edward Furtho at the time of his death of Arthur Throkmorton knt of his manor of Cosgrove by fealty and suit of court and annual rent of 9s 8d for all services. And are worth annually 10s.

And the cap. mess., farm etc by the same Edward Furtho purchased of Michael Tassell and John Whitmill were held by Edward Furtho at the time of his death of the king as of his manor of Hehndon parcel of the Duchy of Lancaster by fealty, suit of court and annual rent of 12d, and are worth annually 3s 4d. And the mess. etc in Cosgrove in tenure of Robert Bignell and other mess. and ten. in Cosgrove in ten. John Emerson, purchased by Edward Furtho of Thomas Emerson and Margaret his wife and George Emerson, were held at the time of his death by Edward Furtho of the king as of the Duchy of Lancaster by 100th part of of one knight's fee, worth 5s p.a.

And the mess. and farm and other premises in Cosgrove and Furtho purchased by Edward Furtho of Thomas Furtho were held by Edward Furtho at the time of his death of the king as of the Duchy of Lancaster by service of 100th part of one knight's fee, worth 10s p.a.

And the site of the manor of Yardley Gobion with premises in Potterspury, Yardley Gobion and Passenham were held by Edward Furtho at the time of his death of the king in free socage, worth 40s. p.a.

And the woods, underwoods, woodlands etc purchased by Thomas Furtho of John Dudley and John Ascough were held by Edward Furtho at the time of his death of the kind in free socage and not in chief, worth 2s 8d p.a.

And the coppice called Notwood Coppice were held by Edward Furtho at the time of his death of the king as of his manor of East Greenwich and not in chief, worth 8s p.a.

And the mess., lands and tens. in Calverton and in the west part of Stony Stratford and in the parish of Calverton were held by Edward Furtho at the time of his death of the manor of Calverton by fealty and rent of 22s.

And the other premises in Wolverton and Stony Stratford were held by Edward Furtho at the time of his death of Henry Longdeville knt as of his manor of Wolverton by fealty, suit of court, worth 40s. p.a.

And lastly the jurors say that Edward Furtho died at Furtho 28 Aug. 18 James [1620]. And that Edward Furtho esq. is his son and heir by wife Elizabeth … [damaged] and Edward the son is aged 23.

And lastly the jurors say that Edward Furtho held no other manors etc either in Northampton or any other county … [rest of last sheet is torn but text appears to be common form.

Bridges, i. 297

In 18 James I, Edward Furtho died seized of manor, and left it to his son Edward. And this gentleman dying without issue, his sisters, Anne the wife of Anthony Stanton of Great Brickhill (bucks) and Nightingale the wife of Edward Mansell of Haversham (Bucks.) became his heirs.

With a chart pedigree from father of Wm Furtho who d. 35 [1492] Hen.VII down to the two sisters.

PRO, C 3/319/65 Manor 1620

22 Dec. 1620. Complaint of Samuel Mansel esq. of the Inner Temple and Nightingale his wife one of the daus. of Edward Furtho of Furtho esq. deceased, for themselves and Furtho, Nightingale, Elizabeth, Dorothy and Anne Mansell, their son and daus., all of tender years and the eldest not above four at most.

Edward Furtho [the father died 1620] a man of great wealth died seised of estate worth £1,000 a year and personal estate of £10,000 at least, and having an only son and two daus. (to whom he had given small portions at marriage), made his will. Made only son Edward he sole exor. Gave Nightingale £1,100 in money to be paid at once and £500 more to be paid after death of his son without issue. Also gave legacies to his grandson and godson Furtho Mansel and our other children.

About August last Edward died at St Sepulchre, London, some 45 miles from his house at Cosgrove. Samuel asked son for performance of will. Agreed to meet Edward at his house in Cosgrove 3 Sept. to read will. Samuel agreed not to put in any claim against will in ecclesiastical court. At time and place appointed Edward refused to produce will. Later proved it in PCC. Altered will to show no legacies due to Samuel and family: tore out pages etc. Edward refuses to perform legacies: denies they were made.

Plea in bar of Edward Furtho. Samuel Mansel stands outlawed on a plea of debt at suit of John Calcott 11 James (1613-14), also outlawed on judgment on a plea of debt 16 James (1618-19) at suit of Robert Makyn, and on another plea of debt 13 James (1615.16) at suit of Roger Smith, also another plea of debt 13 James at suit of William Fryth, as may be seen from records of Common Pleas. Furtho claims he need make no further answer to complaint in Chancery because these outlawries still stand.

Baker, il. 131: under Cosgrove Manor 1621

Edward Furtho esq. d. 19 James (1621) seised of the manor of Furtho and a cap. Mess. In Cosgrove late Lee’s held of Sir Arthur Throgmorton and another Cap. Mess there parcel of the honor of Leicester and duchy of Lancaster.

Esc. 19 James p. 1, n. 39 and Mansel evidences.

On partition of the estates between sisters and coheiresses, Cosgrove assigned to Nightingale, wife of Samuel Maunsell esq., and afterwards of Francis Longueville esq. One of the Cap. Messes. Decended to Mansels, and the other she conveyed in her second widowhood in 1659 to her son Henry Longueville esq., whose son Henry Longueville esq. devised his estate here in 1741 to John Mansel (whose career is then outlined).

Baker, il. 156-7 Manor 1621-3

Male line of Furtho family terminated in Edward Furtho esq., fifth lineal descent from Thomas (fl. 1456), who d. 1621 (19 James I), leaving two sisters and a coheiresses, Anne, wife of Anthony Stanton of Great Brickhill (Bucks) esq. and Nightingale, wife of Samuel Maunsell of Cosgrove esq.

In Jan 1622/3 (20 James I) a ‘free voluntary partition was made by the advise of friends indifferently nominated’, between two coheiressess, when the manor house and advowson of Furtho, with lands there and in other places, were allotted to Anthony Stanton and Ann his wife, and his capital mess. Or mansion at Cosgrove with lands there and in other places to Samuel Maunsell esq. and Nightingale his wife.

Mansel evidence

PRO, C 142/385/39 Furtho Estate 1621

Writ 23 Sept. 18 James I (1620): Edward Furtho.
Inq. taken at Northampton 5 April 19 James I (1621). Edward Furtho was seised in demesne of the manor of Furtho and also the advowson of Furtho.

And also of and in the hermitage or free chapel of Old Stratford [seised of the chapel, not the advowson of the chapel], and the site and precincts of the said chapel, and divers lands etc in Old Stratford, Cosgrove, Passenham and Furtho, late of the said chapel of Old Stratford, parcel of the possessions late purchased by Thomas Furtho esq. deceased (father of the said Edward) of George Ferne gent.

And also of a parcel of land called Brownswood Green in Passenham and Cosgrove late parcel of the possessions of Snelshal priory, purchase by Thomas Furtho of John Mershe esq. and William Mershe gent. 

And also of the cottage and lands (83a.) purchased of Thomas Elye and George Merrell gent. [= H. House]

And also a cap. mess., ten. and farms in Cosgrove, Furtho and East Pury late purchased by Thomas Furtho of Robert Lee gent.

And also the site of the manor of Yardley Gobion called Hall Yard late parcel of the manor ... [interlining illegible].

And also of divers lands etc in Potterspury, Yardley Gobion and Passenham late purchased of Lewis Dive esq., Henry Wickmilne and John Taylor.

And also one mess. and farm in Yardley Gobion and divers lands etc in Yardley and Pury purchased by Edward of Thomas Furtho gent.

And of the wood, underwood etc known as Barnefield alias Broones Wood alias Browns Wood (8a.) in Cosgrove late purchased  Thomas Furtho of John Dudley and John Ayscough esq.

And of divers lands, tens. etc in stony Stratford, Wolverton and Calverton (Bucks.) late purchased by William Furtho of Thomas Eltesdon and Edmund Brooke and Margery his wife.

All of which above Edward Furtho was seised of, by virtue of a fine Easter 38 Eliz. (1596) between Edward Watson esq., George Gascoigne esq., Thomas Gascoigne gent. and Nicholas Gascoige gent. quers., and Edward Furtho and Elizabeth his wife dfcts. was conveyed to use of Edward and heirs male by Elizabeth, with various remainders in default. And by deed 14 Jan. 38 Eliz. (1596) between same parties.

Edward was also seised at time of his death in a cap. mess. in Cosgrove late purchased by him of Michael Tassell and John Whitmell; and of a mess. in Furtho with appts. in Furtho and Cosgrove in ten. Robert Bignell; and of another mess. in Cosgrove with appts. in Furtho and Cosgrove late purchased by Edward Furtho of Thomas Emerson and Margaret his wife and George Emerson; and in all lands, tens. etc in Cosgrove with appts. in Cosgrove and Furthopurchased by Edward of Thomas Furtho gent.; and of coppice of wood called Notwood Coppice (23a.) purchased by Edward of John Ramsey kt. and Thomas Emerson esq. .

Manor of Furtho and advowson are held of the King as or the Duchy of Lancaster for half a knight's fee, worth £8 p.a. clear.

Hermitage or free chapel of Old Stratford with all premises held of King as of manor of East Greenwich in free socage; worth 2s. clear.

Brownswood Green held of East Greenwich, worth 1s. 4d.

Cottage etc bought of Thomas Elye held of EG, 10s.

Cap. mess. and farm bought of Robert Lee held of Arthur Throckmorton kt as of his manor of Cosgrove by fealty, suit of court and annual rent of 9s. 8d.; worth 10s.

Cap. mess. bought of Michael Tassell held of the King as of the manor of Helmdon parcel of the duchy of Lancaster by fealty and annual rent of 12d., worth 3s. 4d. Mess. in Cosgrove in ten. Robert Bignell and other premises bought of the Emersons are held of the King as o the Duchy of Lancaster by 100th part of a knight's fee, worth Ss.

Mess. etc in Cosgrove and Furtho purchased of Thomas Furtho held of Duchy of Lancaster for 100th part of a knight's fee, worth 10s.

Site of manor of Yardley Gobion and other premises in Potterspury, Yardley and Passenham held of the King as of the earldom of Warwick in free socage by fealty. Worth 40s.

Wood purchased of John Dudley held of the King in free socage, worth 2s. 8d.

Notwood Coppice held of the manor of EG, worth 8s.

Premises in Calverton etc are held of the manor of Calverton by fealty and rent of 24s. Premises in Wolverton held of Henry Longeville as of manor of Wolverton by fealty and suit of court, worth 40s.

Edward died at Furtho 28 Aug. last (1620). Edward Furtho is his son and heir male, and was aged 23 and more at the time of his father's death.

NRO, FH 144, ff393v-396v Manor 1621

IPM of Edward Furtho esq., d. 28 Aug. last, and Edward is his son and heir and is aged 23. Inq. 5 April 19 James (1621). Ref. 39.

Furtho: Manor and advowson and all appts., held of the King as of the Duchy of Lancaster for half a knight's fee, and is worth p.a. £8. Old Stratford: The hermitage and free chapel and site thereof, and divers lands, tens., etc belonging to the hermitage and chapel, late purchased of George Ferne  gent., held of the King as of his manor of Eastgreenwich in free socage, and is worth p.a. 2s. Marginated: Cosgrove, Passenham and Furtho, ext.

Passenham and Cosgrove: One parcel of land called Brownswood Green late parcel of the possessions of the dissolved priory of Snelsoe and late purchased of John Mershe esq. and William Mershe gent, held of the King as of his manor of EG etc, worth p.a. ls. 4d.

Cosgrove, Furtho and Eastpury: One cottage and separate parcels of land, meadow and pasture, woodland and woods growing thereon, containing 93a., purchased of Thomas Ely and George Merrell gents., held of the King as of the manor of EG etc, worth p.a. 10s.

Cosgrove, Furtho and Eastpury: One cap. mess. and farm, late purchased of Robert Lee gent., held of Arthur Throckmorton kt as of his manor of Cosgrove by fealty, suit of court and annual rent of 9s; worth p.a. 10s.

Cosgrove: One cap. mess. and farm late purchased of Michael Tassell and John Whitmell, held of the King as of his manor of Helmdon parcel of the Duchy of Lancaster by fealty, suit of court and annual rent of 12d. Worth p.a. 3s. 4d.

Furtho and Cosgrove: One mess. in ten. Robert Bignell and one mess. in ten. John Em'son late purchased of Thomas Em'son, Margaret his wife and George Emerson, held of the King as of the Duchy of Lancaster, for 100th part of a knight's fee. And is worth p.a. 5s.

Cosgrove and Furtho: Divers mess. and farms late purchased of Thomas Furtho gent., held of the King as of the Duchy of Lancaster for 100th part of a knight's fee. And worth p.a. 10s.

Co. Northants.: One coppice of wood, underwood and woodland called Norwood Coppice (23a.), late purchased of John Ramsey kt and Thomas Emerson esq., held of the King as of the manor of Eastgreenwich etc. And worth p.a. 8s.

Yardley Gobion: Scite of the manor named Hallyard late parcel of the manor. (No value or tenure)

Potterspury, Yardley Gobion and Passenham: Divers lands, tens. etc late purchased of Lewis Dive esq., Henry Wickins clerk and John Taylor, held of the King as of his Earldom of Warren, in free socage by fealty. And worth p.a. 40s.

Cosgrove: Divers woods, underwoods and woodland called Barnefield alias Broomswood alias Browneswood (8a.), late purchased of John Dudley and John Ayscough esq., held of the King by fealty and in free socage and not in chief. And worth p.a. 2s. 8d.

Bucks.:

Calverton in West Part of Stony Stratford: Divers mess., lands and tens. purchased of Thomas Etlesdon, Edward Brooke and Marger' his wife, held of the manor of Calverton by fealty, and worth p.a. 22s.

Wolverton and Stony Stratford: Other premises there held of Henry Longvile kt as of his manor of Wolverton by fealty and suit of court, and are worth together p.a. 40s.

Yardley Gobion: One mess. and farm with appts.

Yardley Gobion and Pury: Divers land and tens. late purchased of Thomas Furtho gent.

NRO, F.XII. 1. F. 7 Manor 1623

21 Jan. 20 James I. Deed of partition of Furtho etc between Anthony Stanton and Anne his wife, and Samuel Mansell and John Mansell.

NRO, F.IX.10 Manor 1623

21 Jan 1623. Deed of partition. (1) Anthony Stanton of Great Brickhill, Bucks., esq. and Anne his wife; (2) Samuel Maunsell of Cosgrave esq. and Nightingale his wife; (3) John Maunsell esq. of London and Wm Siggwicke of Woborne, Beds., gent Division of Furtho and Cosgrave estate between (1) and (2), with schedule of lands attached.

(1) and (2) are husbands of co-heirs of Furtho.

NRO, F.V.9 Manor 1623

Quindene of Hilary, 20 James I. Final concord. John Maunsell esq. and Wm Siggswicke gent. plaintiffs: Anthony Stanton esq. and Anne his wife and Samuel Maunsell esq. and [Blank] Nightingale deforciants. Manor of Furtho. 20 mess., 12 cottages, 6 tofts, 3 mills, 6 dovecotes, 30 gardens, 600a arable, 150a, meadow, 400a. pasture, 100a. wood, 200a. heath and furze . 40s. rent in Furtho. For £920.

NRO, F.XIII.60 General Topic c.1623?

On file of receipts etc is a memo, which appears to be extract from deed describing charity estate:

All the manor of Furtho; also the manor house of Furtho; and all houses, appurtenances etc to manor house meadow belonging; also all the inclosed closes of pasture, and wood ground in towns or parishes of Furtho, Cosgrove, Potterspury and Old Stratford; in particular Overcuttles Meadow, Dovehouse Meadow, New Pasture, Nether Cutles Meadow, Ram Close, The Ewe Pasture, Middle Cuttles Meadow, Eyre Stockinges, The Over and Nether Clay Closes, The Oxeleasowe, Great Shansmore, Barne Viles Pightle, Woodville's Pightle, Temple Lane, Frettwell's Partition Close, Vauxes and Breades, Barne Viles Close, A Grove of a Wood called Crowe Grove, and Brownes Pightle, together with the groves, spinneys, hedges, ditches, mounds etc to them belonging; and all other the inclosed grounds, spinneys etc of said [not mentioned before in this extract] Anthony Stanton and Anne his wife or either of them in Furtho, in whose tenure the same, or any of them, be.

And also the parcel of meadow lying in the common meadow of Furtho called Hisworth Hooke; and also all those mess., ten., farms and cottages in Yardley Gobion now or late in ten. Edward Goodman, tog. with all arable, meadow and pasture to same belonging in the towns or fields of YG, Potterspury, Furtho and Cosgrove; and also all other lands and tens. of Anthony Stanton and Anne his wife in town and fields of YG, Pott., Furtho and Cosgrove, now in occ. of Thomas Kent alias Smith gent., Thomas Scrivener, Nicholas Church and John Browne the elder; also all manor of  wastes, ponds, fishings and liberties of fishings courts baron and leet, VFP, profits of courts and other incidents, being part of manor of Furtho, and all demesne lands, mess. etc belonging to manor or reputed to belong to it.

No title to this extract and no date; presumably from deed of around 1623, given ref. to Anthony Stanton.

NRO, F.XI.8/1 Manor Quit Rents 1623

File (now unstitched) of rents of assize of the free tenements of the manor of Furtho, 1623-53. Copy out first on file (sub-no'd) in full: rents due Mich. 1623.

[Cosgrove]

Edward Beauchamp for a free rent of one ten. in Cosgrove with lands bel. in his own tenure. 4s for half year.

Heirs of John Maynard for a free tenement 12d.

Michael Tassell for a free rent for the Broades parcel of Boxyeard 2s.

John Pye for a free rent for the lands parcel of Boxyeard 6d. For free rent for Mille Close parcel of Boxyeard 12d.

Wm Thorne for Burclose parcel of Boxyeard 12d

Widow Spencer for a free rent for 1a. upon Chappell Furlong, 1 capon.

Mr Whalley for 1a. upon Chappell Furlong, 1 capon.

Robert Bedgnall for his tenement, 1 capon.

Pury with Yardley Gobion

Richard Tomes for one house late Scriveners 6d

Peter Boughton a house and close called Tosians 9d. For a close called Busbyes 2d.

Thomas Pedder gent. for land called Tusell 4.5d. For a house late Woodwards 2.5d.

Thomas Cav[e] alias Smith for house and close sometimes called Busbies 2d.

Michael Tassell for a certain close called Kimpsons Yeardley 4d.

Thomas Pedder gent. fox Serte Siller 2s 6d.

Then on to Stony Stratford.

NRO ZB 5/10  Misc. Deeds 1624           

20 June 1624. Deed to lead to uses of a fine. (1) Robert Ives of Old Stratford mason and Ellen his wife; (2) William Twitcham of Tingewick and Ann his wife; (3) Richard Abbot of Stony Stratford yeoman and Mary his wife; (4) Dorothy Mayhowe alias Maywood of Stony Stratford spinster; (5) Henry Penn of Cosgrove gent.

(1), (2) and(3) at cost of (4) and (5) cov to levy fine to (4) and (5) of mess in Cosgrove and all lands appertaining called Cherries Land, late in ten of John Mayhowe alias Maywood deceased, to specific uses.

PRO, C 3/378/2 Manor 1624

3 Nov. 1624. Complaint of Anthony Stanton of Smerwins (Bucks.) esq. Edward Furtho was seised in manor of Furtho and other estates of yearly value of £1,000 or thereabouts, and has issue one son Edward and two daus. Anne and Nightingale. Endeavoured to bestow daus. in marriage and promised to give good portions, which induced your orator to become suitor to Anne, the elder dau. Asked his father Reignold Stanton to intercede with Edward re portion. After elder Edward's death his son Edward often said a moiety of his estate should descend to Anthony and Anne. Edward said he preferred to remain unmarried for this reason. But at time when Edward was very sick one Jane Dunne, calling herself Jane Savill, came and by cofederation with scrivener named Anthony Barber got Edward to grant annuity of £100 p.a. to her, charged on all his estates. And other annuities, totalling £300.

After Edward died AS and SM agreed that lands should be equally divided between them, and they should pay half the annuities each. But said Dunne has taken several distresses and impounded your orator's chattels and goods, and has granted leases of lands. Mansel has also levied distresses on your orator's tenants. He refuses to pay moiety of debts.

12 Nov. 1624. Answer of John Dunne and Jane his wife. Was not aware that Edward intended to remain unmarried, but before his sickness was a suitor to Jane. She did care for him in his sickness and he did out of love for her devise £100 p.a. to her. Legacy has been twice affirmed in court, by verdict and in Common Pleas: latter record produced. True that she levied distresses to safeguard her legacy.

VCH Bucks. iv. 296, in account of Great Brickhill. Manor of Smewnes (not DB, appears as Smewnes Grange C13 held by Woburn Abbey) held by family named Staunton after Dissolution (had been bailiffs before). Reginald Staunton entered into full possession in 1617, made a settlement on marriage of his son Anthony early in 1625, and died seised ten years later. Then descended through three Anthonys. Cites G.T. Staunton, Memoirs of Sir George Leonard Staunton, Bait.

PRO, C 3/368/38 Manor 1624

16 Nov. 1624. Complaint of Samuel Mansel of Cosgrove esq. being much indebted but possessed of a good and sufficient personal estate made his last will, appointing SM and Anthony Stanton exors. They obtained probate. Agreed to divide personal estate between them. SM paid debts. Anthony Stanton and Anne his wife have carried away plate, goods etc from Edward's house in Cosgrove.

28 Nov. 1624. Answer of Anthony Stanton. Rebuts charges and complains at behaviour of SM in dividing up personal estate at mansion house in Cosgrove.

5 Dec. 1624. Answer of Anne Stanton. Denies removing or concealing any goods from her sister at Cosgrove house. Mentions inventory of personal estate.

NB: If the inv. survived in PROB it would be in PROB 2, which it is not. Nor is it in PROB 5, misc. invs. of all dates. Does not appear to be anywhere in PROB, unless it was registered with the will.

NRO, F.XII.1, f. 7v Manor 1625

20 April 1 Charles I (1625). Bargain and sale from Anthony Stanton and Anne his wife to Sir Robert Banestre knt and Henry Banestre gent. and the heirs of Robert of manor of Furtho with the manor house and all houses etc, all inclosed pasture ground, meadow and wood ground in Furtho, Cosgrove, Potterspury and Old Stratford, and advowson of rectory; except several cottages and lands in Old Stratford and in the parish of Cosgrove and the pightles adjoining.

Marginal note that this deed mentions the particular grounds.

Trinity term: fine thereon.

NRO, VI.2 Manor c.1625

Undated draft and fair copy statement of monies paid by Sir Francis Staunton (for manor of Furtho purchased?). Total £3995 5s. Purchased of land and other land purchases and expences.

VI. 328 March 1626. Receipt by Anthony Staunton for £4210 for manor of Furtho from Sir Robert Banastre and £44 for rent due to the manor for the previous year (listed).

NRO, YZ 8274 Manor 1625

Abstract of title which starts this group of deeds re Tombes Farm in YG. Stamped BRA 328, which presumably applies to whole series. Endorsed (earlier hand) A recital of all the writings of Mr Maynerd concerning Tomes Farm, and (later hand) Abstract of Mr Banastre Maynard's titles to Tombs's Farm, No 1. Starts at 1625:

Mr Banaster Maynard's title to the lands in question is as followeth:

1625 Anthony Staunton and Anne his wife, by deed 20 April 1625, conson £4210 grant (int.al.) manor of Furtho, Yardley Gobion Farm and Hisworth Hooke Meadow to Sir Robert Banister and Henry Banister and to heirs of Sir Robert for ever, with cov. to levy a fine.

1625 Mich. Term. Fine duly levied. Stanton and wife to Robert Banister only and his heirs.

Listed as abstract of title of Banister Maynard to Toombs's Farm  (Tomes Farm) from 1625 to 1666, starting with:

20 April 1625 For £4210 Anthony Staunton esq. and Anne his wife sister and heir of Edward Furtho the younger son and heir of Edward Furtho the elder, sale to Sir Robert Banister and Henry Banister of the manor of Furtho, Yardley Gobion farm and Hisworth Hooke meadow.

Rest of original deeds in this sequence then for Tombs's Farm only, starting with:

YZ 8275 A & B

6 June 1666. Feoffement from (1) Amabella countess dowager of Kent, Sir Humfrey Winch of Harlyford Bt and Banister Maynard to (2) George Goodman of Malsoe clerk for E1065. Farm in Yardley Gobion occ. by John Tomes.

Refers to deed 2 Dec. 1665 of conveyance of lands to (1) on trust to pay off £4900 debts.

NB: This appears to refer to whole estate, incl. manor or Furtho, not just the farm in YG

NRO, F.VI.4: Manor 1626

30 March 1626. covenant to Sir Robert Banastre of Passenham kt and Henry Banastre gent. from Arthur Longville of Wolverton (Bucks) gent. in £14. AL agrees not to take distress on manor of Furtho its or any of its lands lately of Edward Furtho and other and to save harmless generally.

F.vI.5: 30 March 1626. Similar to VI.4 from Christopher Gascoyne to Sir Robert Banastre promising not to take any distress on manor and lands in Furtho.

F.VI.6: 30 March 1626. similar to VI.4 from Edward Longville of London gent. not to take any distress on manor and lands of Furtho.

F.VI.7: 30 March 1626. Similar from John Gascoyne.

F.VI.8: 7 May 1626. Similar from John Dunne of St Martin in the Fields gent. and Jane his wife to Sir Robert and Henry Banastre. Dunne not to distress or claim on his annuity of £100 on manor of Furtho granted to Jane by Edward Furtho and covenant to levy a fine for the tenement and dovehouse close, being part of the manor.

F.VI.9: 19 May 1626. Attached to VI.8. Writ of covenant from John Dunne and Jane to Robert and Henry Banastre of 2 mess., 2 gardens, 2 orchards, 70a., 10a. meadow, 30a. pasture in Furtho, Cosgrove, Yardley Gobion and Old Stratford.

F.V1.10: 20 May 1626. Writ of dedimus potestatem to assize judge to take ack. from John and Jane Dunn of a fine of Furtho as in VI.9.

F.VI.11: 28 June 1626. Receipt from Mr Dunn to Sir Robert Banastre in respect of his wife's annuity of £390.

F.VI.12: 1 June 1626. Covenant from Katherine Gascoigne alias Denham to Anthony Staunton and Anne his wife of Great Brickhill (Bucks) not to take distress of lands of Banastre, late of Staunton, in Stony Stratford.

F.VI.13: 1 July 1626. Covenant from Katherine Gascoigne alias Denham widow to Sir Robert Banastre not to take any distress on manor of Furtho.

F.VI.14: Unexecuted copy of V1.13.

NRO, F.XII.1, f. 9

In a box marked G. Discharge of annuities that were issuing out of Furtho with Sir Robert Banestre's particular payments.

No 1. Two papers of monies paid for Mr Stanton's use.

No 2. 28 March 1626. Two receipts from Anthony Stanton the one for £4210, the other for £44 10s. to Sir Robert Banestre.

No 3. 30 March 1626. Covenant from Arthur Longeville to Sir Robert Banestre and Henry Banestre not to make any distress for the sum of £5 p.a. laid upon manor of Furtho by Edward Furtho in and by his last will during the life of the said Arthur.

No 4. Same day. The like to Sir Robert Banestre and Henry Banestre from Christopher Gascoigne.

No 5. Same day. The same from Edward Longeville to Six Robert and Henry.

No 6. 17 April 1626. The like from John Gascoigne.

No 7. 6 May 2 Charles I (1626). Covenant from John Dunne and Jane his wife of their annuity of £100 p.a. to Six Robert and Henry to the effect aforesaid, with two other writings in Chancery hand annexed.

No 8. 28 June 1626. Mr Dunne's receipt of £390 for a moiety of an annuity of £100.

No 9. 1 July 1626. Cov. from Katherine Gascoigne alias Denham to Anthony Staunton and Anne his wife in consideration of £120 paid by Sir Robert Banestre not to make any distress as above for her annuity of £40.

No 10. Same day. Deed from Mrs Gascoigne alias Denham to Sir Robert and Henry of the same.

No 11. Same day. Another deed thereof, not executed.

NRO, YZ 8274 Manor 1632

Sir Robert Banister by trip. Indre 1 Oct. by RB and Henry B. (1), Sir John Dynham knt, Robert Tanfield and Richard Lane (2), and Lawrence Banister esq. son and heir of Sir Robert (3), tog. With Henry and Lawrence, in conson of a marriage, cov. to levy a fine on Tanfield and Lane of, int. al., lands in question. To use of Sir Robert for his life, remainder to Lawrence.

Hilary Term. Fine to confirm above.

NRO, F.XI.8/3 Manor Court Quit Rents 1633

Rental of quit rents due to Sir Robert Banastre from manor of Furtho for ten years ending Mich. 1633. Totals 31s 10d, arranged by place as in 1623.

The next item is not sub-numbered but appears to be [/4]. Undated list endorsed: A particular of quit rents at Passenham and Furtho. Partly torn away but what is left is the same list as in 1623, with side headings for Cosgrove with Old Stratford, Cosgrove, [Pury and Yardley], [Stony Stratford]. No total.

PRO, SC 12/26/70

NRO, YZ 614 Econ Hist c.1635

Slipped from cat. card. Copy of petition of Francis Longeville gent. and Nightingale his wife late wife of Samuel Mansell deceased. Fined £156 for ploughing up Notwood Coppice in Forest of Whittlewood. Petition for discharge of fine. YZ 611-613 appear to belong to same group of deeds: Longeville context rather than Furtho. YZ 615+ do not appear to be related.

NRO, YZ 8274 Manor 1638

Lawrence Baniter by will 16 Feb 1637[/8] devises manor of Furtho, Yardley Gobion Farm and Hisworth Hooke Meadow, after death of Sir Robert Banister his father to Sir Thomas Waineman and Mary his wife and their heirs upon trust to sell for payment of his debts and legacies, and suffer lands sufficient to descend to his heirs.

Bridges, i. 297 Manor 1639

By inq. In Court of Wards 15 Charles I, it appears that lordship of Furtho with advowson of church were in the hands of Sir Robert Banastre of Passenham.

NRO, F.XII. 1. F. 7v Manor 1640

Trinity term, 16 Charles I (1640). Decree of the court of wards and liveries upon an inquisition take in Leicestershire to authorise the Lord Tuam and Mrs Mary Banestre to sell the manors of Passingham, Furtho and Kerby.

23 June 16 Charles i (1640). Agmt betw. Thomas Lord Viscount Wenman, Mary Banestre widow, two of the committees of HM's wards Margaret and Elizabeth Banestre, to Sir Robert Banestre knt father of decd and grandfather of the wards, whereby the lands in Northants late of Sir Robert are agreed to be sold and Sir Robert to be the purchaser, and for confirmation of the premises a decree to pass HM's Court of Wards.

15 Aug. 16 Charles I (1640). Bargain and sale by Thomas Lord Viscount Tuam and Mary Banestre, to Thomas Terrell and Richard Stratton of two parts in three parts to be divided of the manor of Kirby Mucklow (Leics.) and two parts in three parts to be divided of all other the mess., lands etc of the said Laurence Banestre in the said county of Leicester for a year.

17 Aug. 16 Charles I (1640). Release from Tuam and Mary Banestre to Thomas Tyrrell and John Harris of the manors, lands etc of Passenham and Deanshanger and Furtho. 18 Aug. 16 Charles I (1640). Conveyance from Tuam and Mary Banestre to Thomas Tyrrell and Richard Stratton of two parts in three parts to be divided of the manor of Kirby Muxloe as a collateral security for Margaret and Elizabeth Banestre passing their right in the manors of Passenham Deanshanger and Furtho to Thomas Tyrrell and John Harris.

NRO, F.IX. 13 Trinity Manor 1640

Trinity 16 Charles I. Decree in Court of Wards and Livery confirming inq. at Leicester 9 Aug. 15 Charles I (1639). On death of Dynham Banistre late king's ward, Sir Robert Banistre grandfather and Lawrence Banistre father, seized of manor of Kirby, Leics., and lands at Passenham etc., Northants. Dynham was heir to third part. On his death his heirs are Lord Tewman (Tuam) and widow Mary Banistre, who wish to sell their third part of the manors.

F.ix.14: 23 June 1640. Arts. of agmt. Thomas Viscount wenman, Mary Banister widow of Lawrence mother of Margaret and Elizabeth wards and coheirs of Lawrence, and two of the committee of wards, and Sir Robert Banistre kt father of Lawrence. Agree to sell lands in Northants and Leics and Sir Robert is to buy out wards share and approval of court of Wards to be asked.

F.IX.15: 15 Aug. 1640. Lease for a year from Viscount Tuam and Mary widow of Lawrence Banistre esq. to Thomas Tirrell of Castlethorpe, Bucks., esq. and Richard Stratten of Passenham yeoman. For 5s. Two-thirds of manor of Kirby, Leics., and lands attached to it and in Leicester Forest and all houses etc in it.

F.IX.16: 17 Aug. 1640. RL. Viscount Tuam and Mary Banistre to Thomas Tyrrell and Revd John Harris of Passenham, for payment of debts of Lawrence Banistre and making provision for daus. and for £8000 and £1500 contingency, manor of Passenham, Deanshanger and Furtho and advowson of Furtho and all its lands, mess. etc in Furtho, Passenham and Yardley Gobion.

F.IX.17: 18 Aug. 1640. RL. Tuam and Mary to Tyrell Richard Stratton. In confirmation of sale of £8000 £1500 as collateral contingent security. Their two thirds of the manor of Kirby Muxloe, Leics. and its parts to the use of Tuam and Mary but as security of sale in IX 16.

NRO, YZ 8274 Manor 1640

Thomas Viscount Tuam and Mary Banister the relict of Lawrence Banister, the trustees, by deed 17 Aug. 1640 in conson of £8000 to pay debts and legacies granted by fine and feoffinent the lands in question, among others, to Thomas Tyrrill esq. and John Harris and their heirs, both of whom were entrusted by Sir Robert Banistre, and Sir Robert's money paid for it. TT and JH afterwards declared trust and reconveyed estate to Sir Robert Banistre and his heirs; deed declaring trust cannot be found but Mr Justice Tyrill hath the counterpart, which he will produce or seal a release.

For the rest of this abstract see under Yardley Gobion - Misc. Deeds (Nash Mason Estate). Later deeds are apparently only conveyances of Tombes Farm in YG, not Furtho manor.

NRO, F.XI.6 Manor Court 1650

Passenham and Deanshanger. Particular of presentments and amercements at a court leet and court baron held 10 April 1650. All but one are fines for non-appearance. Totals 30s 4d.

Inside is a similar list for court for Furtho cum membris 11 April 1650, total 16s 4d.

Then for Passenham and Deanshanger, 10 April 1651.

Endorsed Furtho and Passenham extracts 1650, 1651 (i.e. estreats?).

NRO, F.IX. 18 Manor 1650

28 May 1650. Copy Chancery bill. Complaint by William Lewis esq. of Maidwell, heir of Margaret Banistre, granddaughter of Six Robert Banistre against exoxs of Six Robert Banistre conc. the non-payment of promised dower of Margaret by Sir Robert, who died and whose will left all the money to the grandson, now dead. 19 pages.

NRO, F.XII. 1, f. 7v Manor 1650

28 May 1650. Bill in Chancery by William Lewis who Marr. Margaret Banestre grandchild of Sir Robert Banestre decd. Against Sir Thomas Adams and Henry Painter, exors of Sir Robert, and others.

NRO, F.XI.7 Manor Court 1653

View of frankpledge of the manor of Furtho, Banastre Maynard esq. lord, 18 April 1653.

No pleas. 10 people listed under essoins. Jury of 13 names sworn. Two people amerced for absence.

Presentments: Leonard Benton for casting up a ditch in Temple Lane to the stoppage of the way. Edward Bignell was ploughing up Millpostway, it being the common highway. Thomas Walbancke for damage to freeboard. Robert Harris for an inmate, which is ordered to remove before next court.

Orders: New ditch in Oatland Lease to be scoured up by 1 June.

John Whalley gent. has late purchased a ten. to him and his heirs of Mrs Longvile within the manor, late in ten. Edward Bignell, rent a capon, relief a capon. To appear to pay his relief and do fealty.

Richard Scrivener the younger has purchased a parcel of land called the Sart Seller of Mrs Wilson. To pay rent of 2s 6d, relief the same.

Report of two freehold purchases in Yardley, noted under Potterspury. Two assessors sworn. Then a rental, noted on next slip.

Rental presented by jury of the rents of the free tenants which hold their lands and tens. of the lord of the manor due yearly to the lord:

Divided by place with side headings; Cosgrove and Old Stratford; Cosgrove; Pury and Yardley; Stony Stratford.
Note first four places.

Total (incl. 5 entries for SS) is 31s 10d and 3 capons.

NRO, F.XI/8/7 Manor Court 1653

Manor of Furtho: Extracts of the court leet and court baron of Banastre Maynard esq., 18 April 1653. Total 6s 10d and 1 capon. List of fines levied in court with order to bailiff to collect them.

F.XI.8/8

Undated list of quit rents for manor, with marginal notes 'Behind n years', with names of people and premises for which they have not paid quit rent. Names are same as on earlier list of 1623. No indication of date but probably more mid than early C17.

F.XI.8/9

Parchment list of rents of assize as presented at court for the manor of Furtho 18 April 1653. More neatly written but basically the same as 1623 list at beginning of file. Same marginal headings for Cosgrove & Old Stratford, Cosgrove, Pury & Yardley and Stony Stratford. Totals 31s 10d and three capons p.a. Examined by Henry Cocks, steward.

NRO ZB 5/11 Misc. Deeds 1653

25 Nov 1633. B&S. Gervase Andrews, cit and goldsmith, to Arthur Whalley of Cosgrove, gent. Mess in Cosgrove commonly called Pemberton’s House and a little close with appts, and ten inclose belonging to mess. Cosgrove Rectory one side, highway the other.

NRO ZB 5.12 Misc. Deeds 1659

4 Oct 1659. Feoffment from Nightingale Longevill of Cosgrove widow to Edward Maunsell of Cosgrove gent, her son. Mess in Cosgrove with lands bel in fields of Cosgrove, Furtho, Potterspury, Yardley Gobion or Old Stratford or some of them, cont 60a in ten John Earby; and cottages in Cosgrove and lands be 15a in same pas now in ten Thomas Bignill; land lately in occ George Emerson 20a in same pas; also assart in occ Widow Cheney 10a with little cottage lately erected thereon in Passenham; and assart in occ Richard Scrivener in Passenham 10a; piece of pasture called Nottwood with 1 a meadow in Stening meadow in Furtho 30a late ten John Beauhcamp; and 4a meadow in Furtho late occ Widow Cheney. For nat love and affinity. 10s conson.

B.L. Add. CH. 18033 Manor 1660

1660. Marriage settlement between Edward Mansell and Millicent Draper, daughter of Edward Draper. Draper pays £350 for his daughter’s marriage portion. Conveyance to the use of Edward Mansell of Lands, tenements etc. granted to him by Nightingale Longvill in Cosgrave, Furtho, Old Stratford and Yardley Gobion to John Mansell and Edward Draper.

PRO, E 179/254/9 General Topic 1662

Free and Voluntary Present, 1662: Cosgrave cum Furtho:

NRO, F.XIII.10 General Topic 1665

Survey of the lands belonging to the manor of Furtho, Sept. 1665, taken by Thomas Chivall of Ashton.

With two more or less contemporary copies; all pinned together.

NRO, F.XIII. 11 General Topic 1665

Rougher version of 1665 survey, but with annual values inserted in left hand margin. Each of the 19 parcels of  land is given a value, except the Home Close and Home Yard Meadow, against which is written B. This evidently means Buncher: at bottom is total of annual values, which come to £184. Add to this Mr Buncher £20 (presumably for house and home close and meadow), the Spinneys £5, and the Quit Rents £1 13s 5d (query pence; could be 9d), and you get total as written in of £210 13s 5d (or 9d).

Acreage of estate calculated by adding 273.3.18 (not 274.3.18 as in other copies of survey) to 10.1. 29 for spinneys, to make total estate of 284.01.07.

Then a note of £12 14s taxes per Lr as Howe sayeth; £12 8s 4d as they are in the assessment; £10 13s 0d as in the year 92/3.

On the back a list of acreages and annual values for all the parcels of land not occupied by Buncher; for the Spinneys; and for Buncher's two pieces of land. Land partly valued at £1 5s 6d per acre and partly at 12s 3.75d per acre. What appears to be average given as 14s 9d per acre, or leave out Mr Buncher's and it's 14s 7d per acre. The land not occupied by Buncher is valued at £132 10s. p.a (incl. Spinneys at £5) and Buncher pays £20. A figure of £56 10s also added in to produce total of £209 p.a. Not clear where this £56 10s comes from.

Then a separate list: To rector of Furtho for tithes £20 7s 6d; Tom French's rent p.a. £226; Land Tax (no figure entered); To Cosgrove for highways p.a. 5s; Duke of Grafton for quit rent 9s; Militia 6s 10d; Helmdon Court p.a. 8s.

Furtho repairs 1724 £200; given then to Richard Arnold £10; steward for keeping court £1 1s. Stony Stratford apprentices £6 13s 4d, x3 = £20. Lent by Buncher £160 108 5d.

Against two parcels (The Vasses and Clay Close) is note: TF to plow (i.e. Tom French, presumably).

NRO ZB 5/13 Misc. Deeds 1665

27 Nov 1665. Mortgage by demise. George Smith of Cosgrove yeoman mortgages to Wm Dickins of Puxley (in Passenham) yeoman. Cottage in Cosgrove in occ Wm Porter and parcels of arable land, lease and meadow in Cosgrove, incl meadow in Sow meadow of Cosgrove; land in Quarry Field; land in Middle Field; land in Moore Field. Conson £80. Term 500 years.

NRO, F.XIII.62 Econ Hist 1665

File of rentals and similar. Sub-numbered with letters.

(a) Undated (2nd half of C17, by hand) rental of Furtho, totalling £292 15s. 10d., incl. £30 for 'The improvements which may be made to this lordship', £2 for profits of court, and £1 11s. 10d. quit rents. 12 tenants named, none of them with manor house. Largest is Mr Harrison, who is paying £81 6s. 8d. Others: Richard Thornebacks, Thomas Scrivener, Mr Stirke, Widow Baylie, Richard Stratton, Thomas Mann, Mr Barrowes, William Miller, Ralph Tompson, Browne and others, Hipwell Penn.

Note at end that number of acres is 285. There is wood in the lordship worth £600 which will not be allowed into the purchase. Twenty years purchase is required.

Possibly a valuation before Edmund Arnold's purchase (would fit hand better than anything to do with 1623 partition). (b) is another copy of (a), with additions incorporated in (a), which appears to be the fair copy.

NRO, F.VIII.2  Manor 1666

30 May 1666. Mortgage. Annabella countess dowager of Kent, Sir Humphrey Winche of Harlyford (Bucks) Bt, Hon. Banastre Maynard esq. son and heir of Wm Lord Maynard of Estaynes, Essex, to Sir Edward Bromfield of Suffolk Place, Surrey, Bt for £3900 of the manor of Furtho and advowson for 500 years. Endorsed with surrender by Bromfield on receipt of £4017 of the manor etc to Annabella etc as part of the dower of £4900 paid by Bromfield towards debt of Banastre Maynard, dated 27 Dec. 1666.

B.L. Add. Ch. 6074 Manor 1666

1666. Sale for £10, by Arabella, Countess of Kent, Sir Humphrey Winch and Banastre Maynard of the meadow lying in common meadow of Furtho to Richard Harris.

NRO, F. VIII. 17 Manor 1666

24 Aug. 1666. Original agreement for manor of Furtho, made by Mr. Arnold. Agreement between Arnold and Thomas Jones gent. £4650 to be paid to Lady Kent and Sir H. Winche for Furtho.

NRO, F.XIII.59 (v) 1666 Local Government

A levy made 18 April 1666 for the relief of the poor and repair of the church at 3d per acre [for] demesnes and common meadow and 1.5d for arable land and leys and 1.5d per haigh for Notwood. Side heading: Furtho, Robert Johnson, overseer.

Three columns against each name: acres and roods of demesne and meadow, acres and roods of arable and leys, and amount of money. First side must be Furtho, other page is Potterspury, Yardley Gobion and Old Stratford.

List of 36 names for Furtho, starting with Banastre Maynard esq. for demesnes, 260a. demesne and meadow, no arable, £3 5s. Edward Mansell for Notwood 30a. demesne and meadow the second largest entry; Thomas Walbanck 17.0 demesne and meadow, 2.0 arable and leys. Next highest are several entries for 6 or 7 ac. demesne or meadow. In arable column Arthur Whaley 20ac. (also Arthur Whaley for his own land 13.2), and John Beauchamp jun. 22a. are largest entries. Also Mr Whaley for the Breads 10ac., Edward Mansell for Hawkins 12ac., Thomas Chandler 14ac.

Furtho arable and leys total 218 ac. Demesne and meadow total 359 ac., incl. the 260 ac. demesne.

In Potterspury only four people assessed. Demesne and meadow 2 roods; arable and leys 8a. 2r.

In Yardley Gobion 10 entries, incl. [Blank] for More End. Demesne and meadow 3 roods. Arable and leys 35a. 1r. More End assessed at 4a. arable.

In Old Stratford four entries. No demesne and meadow. Two entries each pay on 2r. arable and leys, the other two are just assessed at 4d for a house. One of the people assessed on 2r. arable also assessed on a house, making his total assessment 4.75d.

Total for parish is £5 19s 11.5d. Signed by Nicholas Riall rector, Richard Stratton, Richard Rawlins, Edward Mansell. At bottom, late note, presumably by Edmund Arnold. Deduct my £3 5s, leaves £2 14s 11.5d, so I pay above half. Q, about the equality of tax of inclosure from common meadow.

NRO YZ 7848 Misc. Deeds 1666           

6 June 1666. B&S Annabella countess dowager of Kent, Sir Humfrey Winch of Harlyford Bucks Bt and Hon Banastre Maynard son of Lord Maynard to Richard Harris of Cosgrove yeoman for £95. I hook and another parcel of meadow at Furtho called Hisworth Meadow (5a)

NRO, F.VIII.3 Manor 1666

1 Oct. 1666. Bargain and sale. Sir Thomas Tyrrell kt. Judge of common plea, Wm Lord Maynard esq. son and heir to Annabella countess dowager of Kent, Sir Humphrey Winch of Harliford, Bucks, bt for 1s. of the manor of Furtho and all its estate and advowson.  

NRO, F.XIII.62 Manor c.1666

File of rentals and (c) Undated calculations and rental, similar to (a) but handwriting is earlier. Could well be from time of Maynard brought out as basis for calculations made when Arnold purchased.

List of closes, acreages, tenants and rents, similar to (a) but Mr Harrison is identified as Edward Harrison. The rents total £252 4s., to which has been added £5 for wood and £1 11s. for the quit rents. Note that there are four spinneys, totalling 10.1.28. Total acreage 285. There is a house with a dovehouse. Timber trees and underwood.

The advowson of the rectory of Furtho.

Note that there is a chief rent due to the manor of Cosgrove, which being my lord Maynard I suppose they purpose to extinguish by this conveyance.

5s. to the town of Cosgrove, in lieu of a highway they anciently had through Furtho grounds.

There is a fresh demand by the king's steward of Grafton of 2s. or some other sum p.a. out of Furtho, which hath not been heard of this 50 years.

The land all in Furtho parish saving Birds Close, which is in Cosgrove parish, and q. whether the Parted Close be not in Potterspury parish.

NRO, F.XIII.62 Manor c17

(d) is another undated particular of manor, looks late C17 from handwriting. Eleven tenants named: William Head, Oliver Penn, Christopher Danferd, John Bunchex (3 parcels, but not the manor house), Robert Basse, Richard Scott, Lawrance Hobbs, Thomas Barnes, Widow Bayliffe, Thomas Scrivener, Robert Hampes. Pay a total of £255 3s. 4d., to which is added 20 men who pay quit rents sum of £1 12s. 11d., making £256 16s. 3d. Issuing out of Furtho for the minister there £20, leaving net £236 16s. 3d.

No-one is named as tenant of the manor house. Could this list date from Arnold's time.

Last item on file (h) is a fair copy in late c17 or early c18 lawyer’s hand of particular of rents, as in (a). totalling £292 15s 10d. with tenants and fields named, and notes at end that acreage is 285, woods worth £600 not put into purchase, and 20 years’ purchase is required.

NRO, F.XII.1, f.9v Manor 1666

In the biggest new black box marked H. The deeds and conveyances of Furtho to Mr Arnold and some other writings, viz.:

A. 30 May 1666. Mortgage by Annabella Dowager Countess of Kent. Sir Humphrey Winch bt and Banestre Maynard esq. to Sir Edward Bromfield of the manor of Furtho and advowson for £3,900. Endd: Sir Edward Bromfield's surrender to Banestre Maynard Annabella countess dowager of Kent and Sir Humphrey Winch, dated 27 Dec. 1666.

B. 1 Oct. 1666. Conveyance enrolled by Sir Thomas Tyrrell. Wm Lord Maynard and Banestre Maynard esq. to Countess Annabella and Winch of manor of Furtho and advowson and all lands etc of Sir Thomas in Furtho, Yardley Gobion, Potterspury and Cosgrove. To the use of countess and Winch.

f. 10:

C. 27 Dec. 18 Charles II (1666). Lease for a year by Banestre Maynard, countess and Winch to Edmund Arnold esq. of manor of Furtho. Note: mentions the particular lands.

D. 28 Dec. 18 Charles II. Deed trip. of RL betw. B. Maynard, Countess and Winch (1), Edmund Arnold (2), John Randolph and Hatton Farmer (3) of the third part of the manor and advowson and also inclosed pasture etc in conson of E4650.

E. Same day. Acquittance for consideration £4650 executed by Maynard, Countess and Winch. F. Same day. B&S enrolled: Maynard, Countess of Winch to Arnold.

G. same day. Arnold's letter of attorney to John Bunches and Richard Rawlins to take seisin from Randolph and Farmer.

H. Same day. Lease trip. Maynard, Kent and Winch (1), Arnold (2), Edward Browne (3) of several meadows and pastures at Ingarsby alias Ingwardby (Leics.) for 99 years as a collateral security till Lady Margaret Duchess of Richmond and Lenox, only dau. and heir of Laurence Banestre esq. decd do convey her right to manor of Furtho.

NRO, F.VIII.4: Manor 1666

NRO, F.VIII.4: 27 Dec. 1666. Lease for a year from Banistre Maynard esq., countess of Kent and Sir Humphrey Winche to Edmund Arnold of London esq. of the manor of Furtho etc.

F.VIII.5: 28 Dec. 1666. RL. Patties as above with addition of John Randolph of Towcester gent. and Hatton Farmer of Northampton gent. to Edmund Arnold. Conson £4650 paid by Lady Kent and Winche to Arnold. Manor of Furtho and manor house, advowson and land (fully described), to the use of Arnold.

F.VIII.6: 28 Dec. 1666. Acquittance from Maynard etc to Arnold fox £4650.

F.VIII.7: 28 Dec. 1666. B&S from Maynard etc to Arnold of manor of Furtho for £4650.

F.VIII.8: 28 Dec. 1666. Attorney from Arnold to John Buncher of Paulerspury gent. and Richard Rawlins of Cosgrove gent. to take seisin from John Randolph and Hatton Farmer, authorised for Maynard etc.

F.VIII.9: 28 Dec. 1666. Tripartite lease from Maynard, Annabella and Winche to Edmund Arnold and Edward Browne of London gent. 99 years at peppercorn (= part of £4950 sale) of several closes in Ingarsby, Leics., held as collateral security.

F.VIII.13-14: Octave of Hilary, 18 Charles II (1666). Pair of indres of fine. Edmund Arnold, plaintiff; Maynard, Kent and Winche deforciants. Manor of Furtho, 2 mess., 2 cottages, 2 tofts, 2 mills, 2 dovecotes, 2 gardens, 2 orchards, 500a. arable, 100a. meadow, 150a. pasture, 16a. wood, 20a. brush and furze. 40s. rent in Furtho, Cosgrove, Potterspury and Old Stratford. Fine £400.

NRO, F.VIII.10: Manor 1666

Undated list of lands in Ingarsby.

F.VIII.11: Note of land in Ingarsby (1208a)

F.VIII.12: 29 Dec. 1666. Lease from Arnold to Maynard, Kent and Winche of closes in Ingarby at peppercorn rent.

F.VIII.15 – 16: Octave of Hilary 18 Charles II (1666). Pair of indres of fine. Edward Browne plaintiff; Maynard, Kent and Winche deforciants. 140a. arable, 200a. meadow, 200a. pasture, 10a. wood and Ingewardby alias Ingarsby and Hungerton (Leics.) Fine £500.

NRO, F.XI.9 1667 Manor Court

Court roll: VFP of Edmund Arnold esq. for manor of Furtho, 11 April 1667, by John Randolph steward.

No pleas. Three essoins, one of them Edward Ball of Old Stratford, carrier. Jury of 13. Jury present a blocked ditch leading from the king's highway and running between a pasture called Notwood and another called Bredes.

Present one entry to a freehold property; new tenant does homage and fealty.

Then list of rents as in 1653: jury present each tenant as holding a certain property for a certain rent. And some changes of tenant noted.

F.XI.10

Rental of the manor, 11 April 1667: list of free tenants of the manor and the rents they owe annually. Topographical detail appears to be same as in 1653. Mentions: Chappell Furlong in Cosgrove, parcel of land in the Bredes, the Sert Sellar near the Riding by Grub Hill, close called Bushby, Mill Close parcel of Boxtree Yard, Inn called the Falcon in Old Stratford, Ashgrove Close in Cosgrove, a tenement near the Falcon in Old Stratford, Pudsdole in Potterspury, land near Beareswatering, close in Pury called Kempsons, Inn called the Cock in Stony Stratford. Total 31s 10d and 3 capons.

NRO. F.XIII. 12 Local Govt 1667

Quit rents of the manor of Furtho, presented by jury 10 April 1667. Appears to be same as transcribed for other dates around same period. Totals £1 11s (and three capons).At end a note: Vid. P. 33.

On the back the scribe has started to write out a quit rental for 1694 but only the first line entered.

NRO, F.X.II Manor Court 1667

Manor court roll, 17 Oct. 1667. Edmund Arnold lord, John Randolph steward.

No pleas, Essoins include John Strike of Shrob Lodge in Passenham. Jury 14.

Complaint concerning blocking of Temple Lane, an ancient cartway or driftway leading from manor of Furtho to the royal highway and from thence towards the town of Buckingham.

Orders to clean out ditches near Notwood and Clayclose. Also some baron items re homage and fealty of new free tenants.

NRO, F.XIII. 256 (14b)  Local Govt 1667

Letter, undated, to Arnold, with various items of local news. Have had much trouble about the tax, first meeting was at Northampton three weeks ago, there being no other just but Mr Naylor, would not decide it, but heard our complaint, and their answer, and so put us off till 1 July, Monday last. There was four commissioners, there appeared Mr Stratten and myself who were opposed by four of the chief in Cosgrove. They produced their deeds by which Furtho was to paid a third part of the 15ths. The commissioners put the question, what was the most usual way of taxing Furtho. Mr Longueville did justify that Furtho had been taxed at a third this forty years last past, which was an untruth, so we beat them off. We offered to make oath that for twenty years we are sessed by a pound rent, on which we made a stand, but they pressed hard for a third. Then I made the commissioners this offer, that Furtho should pay a third part if they would make good all the profits that did belong to Furtho at the time the deed was made, which I know they could not do. We are forced to pay a third this time. We have got a fourth part back which covers our charges going to Northampton twice.

Bottom is torn away so no signature or date but appears to be about 1667/7 and from Richard Rawlins of Cosgrove, as is first letter numbered (14). Letter that is mainly about tax is a different letter, not part of (14), which is signed and dated 12 Jan. 1666/7. Ref. to July must make it either summer 1666 or 1667. Can't tell from position in file, because next letter is 6 Jan. 1666/7.

Agreed with NRO 11.7.97 to make second letter F.XIII.256(14b). Must have been placed here in file because it is also from Richard Rawlins, but cannot be close to the same date as (14a).

NRO, F.XIII.59 (g) Econ Hist 1667

Accounts for 1667. Rent coming out, disbursements include taxes and repairs.

(h) is a small receipt from the constable of Cosgrove for a week's tax for the militia, 4 July 1667, 7s 8d, received of Richard Stratton for Edmund Arnold for Furtho.

(j) is a sheet with two receipts from rector for modus received from Edmund Arnold by Nicholas Riall rector of Furtho, £5 each quarter, 29 Sept. 1667 and 26 Dec. 1667.

(k) similar to (j) but date not filled in. The back of the sheet is endorsed: Furtho quit rents in Mr Stanton's time 1623 but nothing about these on other side.

(l) Accounts similar to those for later years, Mich. 1667. Rent coming in, incl. Myself for Dovehouse Close, totalling £81. Disbursements total £83. Repairs and work on the estate, also poor, church, highways rate and king's taxes.

(m) is similar sheet of accounts for period from time Mr Arnold entered upon estate to Mich. 1667. Disbursements include what spent at Towcester going to see the commissioners; going on Furtho perambulation; planting trees; paying usual parl. and local taxes.

NRO, F.XIII. 61 Local Govt 1667

p. 10

Transcript of quit rental of 11 April 1667 from manor court proceedings, total £1 11s 10d plus three capons.

NRO, F.XIII.256 (15) Manor 1667

6 Jan. 1666/7. Ed. Harrison to Edmund Arnold. Wishes EA much joy of Furtho now that purchase is complete.

(16) 13 Jan. 1666/7. Similar letter of congratulations from John Randolph, Towcester. The cake and wine were much appreciated by those giving and taking seisin. Please search at PCC for will of Richard Pinckard the younger of Ascott (we called him Capt. P.) get a copy, and send it to Towcester carrier.

NRO, F.XIII.256 (18) Manor 1667

Letter 13 Nov. 1666 from Ed. Harrison. Owners of the parted close are the lord of the manor Furtho (.25), Thomas Cave of Yardley Gobion (.25) and Thomas Scrivener of Potterspury (.5). Have heard no more of Grafton demands.

(19) Letter from EH, Passenham, 14 Oct. 1666. There is one small ground in Cosgrove and the rest are in Furtho. Have asked bailiff to write out a quit rental and to set down all payments out of lordship. Care is being taken to preserve wood. Present incumbent is Nicholas Ryall, parsonage accounted £80 p.a. but he says £60. Mr Jones has been here; has given order to put highways in repair. (

20) John Buncher, Paulerspury, 14 Nov. 1666 to uncle, Edmund Arnold. Postmaster at Towcester is Thomas Whitcher at the sign of the Angel.

(21) Same to same, 10 Jan. 1666/7. Have taken possession of Furtho before 7 or 8 witnesses; had a banquet at the house at Furtho and were very merry; Mr Harrison was unwilling to go to the alehouse. There is about a month's tax to be paid suddenly, Furtho being levied at about £8 to it; Mr Stratten says you are to pay it because you are getting the next half year's rent. Also notes about Cosgrove filed under that parish.

NRO, F.VIII.18 Manor 1668

22 Dec. 1668. Articles of agreement re quit rent. Hon. Banastre Maynard esq. of Wrest, Beds. and Edmund Arnold of London esq. Maynard owed rents to king of 6s 9d and 5s for six years on manor of Furtho and paid £30 to Arnold for it. In case no quittance of rent, Maynard to pay the fees and receive quit rent.

F.VIII.19: Copy or draft of 18.

F.VIII.20: Abstract of title to Furtho 1 Charles I to 1666. Receipt by under-sheriff of post fine 60s. in 1668 and lawyer's rough bill of £7 17s for drawing up title deeds for the estate.

NRO, F.XIII.256 (9) Local Govt 1669

Letter 11 Jan 1668/9 to Arnold from Richard Stratten, Deanshanger. Explains rates for church and poor which EA has to pay. The title of our levy for church and poor runs thus: 3d per acre for the demesne and common meadow, and 1. 5d for the arable land, and 1. 5d for Notwood. When you come down I will show you churchwarden’s accounts. I look over them to make sure they do no wrong.

There is something done about repairing the church but is not finished, the weather hindering it.

NRO, F.XIII.16  Manor 1669

File of papers re Exchequer suit between Edmund Arnold ptf and John Beauchamp the younger gent. dft.

(1) Notice to ptf that commissioners will take evidence at King's Head, Stony Stratford, 16 April 1669. Dated 9 April 1669.

(2) Commission (Latin).

(3) Depositions of Richard Stratton, late of Furtho, examined on complainant's part, now examined on

defendant's part. Numbered replies to questions. (2&4) He knows manor of Furtho, its bounds and what lands each tenant holds, from court rolls and rentals. Manors extends through whole of parish of Furtho and many other parishes: Cosgrove, Potterspury, Wolverton and Calverton. Defendant holds land under rent of 8s. p.a., but does not know if this covers all land he holds. Was present at a debate between Sir Robert Banister and the defendant's father concerning payments of said quit rents, when RB made it appear his duty to pay, and he did pay and they parted very friendly. (5) For last 19 years defendant and his father have been summoned by deponent and others to do suit of court and pay chief rent, but have sometimes refused to pay rent or do service. Reason claimed is that their deeds do not mention this rent and so have paid the like rent to the honor of Grafton.

(6) Defendant and father have been amerced but by neglect of steward not estreated and so could not be levied for rent.

NRO, F. XIII.16 (3) Manor 1669

John Beauchamp the elder of Cosgrove gent. father of defendant, aged 53:

(1) Knows both parties, defendant since he was born and complainant two years; has know manor of Furtho 40 years; knows Sir Robert Banister used to be lord, and afterwards Banister Maynard.

F.XIII.16 (4)

Interrogatories to be administered on behalf of defendant.

(1) Do you know parties, and manor of Furtho, and for how long. Who are lords and by what services it is held.

(2) Do you know boundaries of manor; does it extend throughout pa. of Furtho; does it extend into other pas.

(3) Do you know lands held by defendant, which parish they lie in, by what services are they held, to which court is service owed and rent payable.

 (4) Is any of defendant's land held of the manor of Furtho; if so what rents have been paid; were they paid voluntarily or by compulsion.

(5) Was defendant or any of his predecessors summoned to pay chief rent to Furtho manor; and did they; if so for how many years.

(6) If they refused, were they amerced and levied.

(7) Do you know that the defendant's lands are held of the crown as of the honor of Grafton by 8s. rent or what rent, or St John of Jerusalem or Duchy of Lancaster, and do they pay such rent.

(8) Did Sir Robert Banister by threats or his mere power force any of defendant's tenants to pay rent (and what rent) to manor of Furtho.

(9) On the inclosure of Furtho was there not several lands interchanged between the lord of Furtho and other freeholders there for lands which they had in the pa. of Cosgrove, and inhabts. and freeholders of Cosgrove vice versa, incl. some of the defendant's lands, and was it not then agreed that inhabts. of Cosgrove should not pay any rent or do service if any was due in consideration of that exchange.

(10) If any services to manor of Furtho did arise out of defendant's lands, did these services not arise out of lands which he had exchanged with lord and freeholders of Furtho, the which he now enjoys.

(11) what else do you know about this matter.

NRO, F.XIII.16 (5) Manor 1669

Inquisition at Stony Stratford 16 April 1669. Richard Stratton of Deanshanger, aged 56.

(1) Has known defendant since he was a child and complainant these two years.

(2) Has known manor for 40 years. When he first know it Mr Stanton was lord, after him Sir Robert Banister knt, and after his decease my Lord Maynard during the minority of his son Banister Maynard, and after Banister came of age he held it till he sold it to complainant about two years since. Forty years since William Turvy was bailiff for about ten years; then did not have a bailiff, till 19 years ago deponent became bailiff and continued bailiff till complainant bought manor two years ago.

(3&4) Defendant has mess. and lands in own occ. in Cosgrove reputed to belong to manor of Furtho. Has seen four accounts of sd Turvy showing lands owed quit rent of 8s. Deponent was present when defendant's father John Beauchamp brought George Emerson to debate quit-rent with Sir Robert Banister; after RB showed him rolls JB paid rent before departing, but does not know for how many years this was done.

(5) Deponent has seen accounts showing that Edward Beauchamp (defendant's grandfather) and his widow paid rent to lord of Furtho, but does not know for how long.

(6) Deponent knows that parchment rolls now shown him are manor court rolls, because he was and yet is bailiff, and that the paper accounts shown him are rent accounts.

(7) Deponent knows that defendant's father was summoned to Furtho court and has seen him essoined in the court rolls.

(8&9) Deponent knows that defendant's grandfather and father lived in the mess. now owned by defendant. Knows that because of late troubles lords of manor did not hold courts or demand quit rents, but since courts have resumed all tenants except Mr Whalley and defendant have paid quit rents.

NRO, F.XIII.16 (6) Manor 1669

Interrogatories to be administered on behalf of complainant, Edmund Arnold.

(1) Do you know parties; for how long.

(2) Do you know manor of Furtho; what have been lords and bailiffs.

(3) Do you know defendant's lands in pas. Cosgrove and Furtho. Are they held of the manor of Furtho.

(4) Have defendant's ancestors paid any quit rents to manor of Furtho. How much and to whom.

(5) Have you seen any rolls or account books showing this rent being paid.

(6) Do you know rolls and papers now shown you; that Anthony Staunton was lord of manor; and that Edward Beauchamp named there was ancestor of defendant.

(7) Have defendant's ancestors ever been summoned to Furtho court; have they been essoined for non-attendance.

(8) Have Beauchamps not occupied ten. in Cosgrove for three generations.

(9) What else do you know.

NRO, F.XIII.16 (7) Manor 1669

Letter from Richard Stratton, Deanshanger, 29 Feb. 1668/9, to Edmund Arnold at his house at sign of Boar's Head and Chequer in the Strand near Strand Bridge. Have received a note from Mr Harrison that you would know what chief rent John Beauchamp paid Sir Robert Banister. Edward Beauchamp paid 8s. p.a. His widow married Mr Wells and he paid 8s. But when John Beauchamp (the elder) came of age he went with a kinsman to Sir Robert's hall and they argued over it; I was there. JB said he ought to not pay it because it was not in his deeds, but RB said it was not usual to put chief rent in deeds, and then JB paid 5s. I know not whether this was in full or part, it was in 1629, before I became receiver. I have seen account of old bailiff that used to gather up chief rents of Widow Beauchamp paying 5s.

NRO, F.XIII.16 (8) Manor 1669

John Beauchamp's answer to complaint, 20 May 1668.

He holds all his lands of the honor of Grafton and manor of Cosgrove, and same lie in parishes of Cosgrove, Perry and Furtho. Have always paid quit rent of 8s. to crown. Has never paid anything to Furtho, nor done suit there. Denies all manner of combining with other tenants of manor of Furtho either by intermingling or secret exchanging. Denies depriving lord of manor of anything.

NRO, F.XIII.16 (9) Manor 1669

Complaint of Edmund Arnold.

Complainant is lord of Furtho a year and half. Manor contains certain freehold and copyhold tenements from  which rent is due. When EA bought estate was not familiar with rents due and lives in London, so tenant combined against him to conceal rents. John Beauchamp by secret exchanges has concealed what lands are due to pay rent. But EA knows Beauchamp used to pay 8s. JB has taken possession of court rolls. Asks court to discover what lands are involved.

NRO, F.XIII.16 (10)

Copy of Richard Stratton's depositions on behalf of defendant.

NRO, F.XIII.16 (11)

Copy of John Beauchamp the elder's depositions on behalf of defendant.

NRO, F.XIII.16 (12)

Copy of Richard Stratton's depositions on behalf of complainant. Memorandum endorsed on this last paper: John Beauchamp of Cosgrove refusing to pay quit rent, I sued him in the Exchequer; commission held at SS 16 April 1669, and after one witness (Richard Stratton) heard for me, commissioners prevailed for a composure, that JB should appear at my court and pay quit rents and arrears for his house and lands in Cosgrove, which he did, and paid 20s. arrears and 8s. for the future.

NRO, F.XIII.59 (e) Econ Hist 1668/9

Half-yearly rent receipts, LD and Mich. 1668 and 1669. About £31-£34 coming in each half-year, incl. Myself for Dovehouse Close. Followed by outgoings. Same mix as before of repairs and taxes of various kind, incl. modus to rector, highways, church and poor. Also payment of tax to Cosgrove constable. Mentions going on Furtho perambulation, also payment to man for repairing maypole. Bill for feast at Furtho.

NRO, FXIII.59 (d) Manor 1668-70

Account of loads of stone carried for repair of Furtho road, succession of dates in Oct. Nov. 1670 Total 95 loads carried for £3 10s.

Bottom half of sheet is Mr Arnold’s account for his horse and threshing, 1668-70. Appears to be horse hire. Mr Arnold’s horse came on such and such a day and left on another day.

NRO, F.XIII.59 (y) General Topic c.1670

Undated survey of all the mound walls at Furtho. Names East, West, North and South Wall, also the High Groundsell Wall and Lower Groundsell Wall. Total 2899 feet, being in all 9 perches of work wanting 17 feet. At 18s per perch comes to £8 1s.

(z) Undated account of the repairing of the house at Furtho for John Toomes. Paid for boards, nails, mortar, thatch, glass and tradesmen's time in each case. Total £9 0s 11d.

(aa) Undated survey of house at single measure and chimney at double measure. House totals 1,908 foot, chimney 698 foot, being 3 perch 126 ft and 2 perch 50 ft. Deducting out of the whole 34 ft then there remains just 5 perch 142 ft at 18s a perch comes to £4 16s. Also note about dimensions of kitchen and cellar. Looks like calculations for mason's works. On back similar calculations about the brewhouse and chimneys.

(bb) Used as a wrapper for whole file. Plan of house at Furtho. Undated, listed as c. 1670 from watermark but not a dated watermark. Shows house, brewhouse, yard, stable, barn, layout of a formal garden. Compass points indicated at margin but no scale. Too big to copy; could be traced. Appears to show a three-room house with entry facing dividing wall; second and third rooms divided by what appears to be screen, creating 'screens passage' small central room. Brewhouse to rear of what is presumably kitchen; yard runs behind whole of house; stable and barn at right angles at west end of house, creating L-shape layout with gardens inside the L to south of house and east of outbuildings. Gardens shown as four formal beds below what looks like a terrace. Three different layouts for three of the beds; fourth one has no detail on it. Plan is possibly connected with spec. of mason's work on preceding sheet.

NRO, F.XIII. 59 (u) Local Govt c. 1670

One of the sheets of misc. pps. filed with Edmund Arnold's estate accounts c. 1666-70. No date on this paper. First as touching the parish of Cosgrove, it is well known the greatest part of the inhabitants thereof are much given to raise and stir up new troubles and contentions, not only amongst themselves but against neighbouring towns, so in like manner against Furtho, in oppressing the said parish with unreasonable assessments, much higher than themselves, so also in oppression of them with their poor, in making it their common practice in lifting and getting them out of their own parish, and putting them into the said parish of Furtho.

So in like manner have they endeavoured to put this Coles upon the said parish, although he hath not lodged 40 nights in the said parish to make him an inhabitant, witness upon oath Robert Carline, Susanna Wood widow and Coles himself.

As touching the said Coles his settlement in Cosgrove, it is well known that he served an apprenticeship there for 7 years, after his apprenticeship was expired he lived a year and a half in the said parish, without any disturbance or molestation, thereby being an inhabitant in the parish of Cosgrove. Witness upon oath Major Arnold and Coles himself.

NRO, FXIII.59 (s) Manor c.1670

Short undated list of sums owing: To Sir Robert Gaire due upon mortgage of part of the lands mentioned in the annexed indre from the sd Lord Maynard £11,000.

To Sir Peter Pinder likewise upon mortgage of part of the said lands £1,200.

To Sir Ralph Bowes £4000.

To Mrs Elizabeth Maynard after to said Lord Maynard £200 p.a. until she marry and on the day of her marriage £5,000.

To Mrs Susan Bowell £4,900.

To Archbp of Cant. £400.

To Mrs Spencer £250.

Total £26,750.

No indication of date or from whom the money is owing.

NRO, F.XIII. 59 (e)  Manor 1670-1

Sheet headed An Account for Mr Arnold: in fact several accounts on same page. First is dated 25 March 1670. Rent coming in, incl. myself for Dovehouse rent. Similar for 29 Sept. 1670. £55 10s in first period, £37 0s 1d in second. Then two lots of disbursements, one for period since I accounted 11 July 1670, second to 29 Sept. 1670. Outgoings include repairs, also church and poor levies, highways. Note on back dated 8 April 1671 signed by Edmund Arnold noting sums received from Mr Stratton and amounts allowed him.

Ended on wrapper: Mr Stratton last.

NRO, F.XIII.59 Manor 1672-5

File of miscellaneous papers, labelled on outside of wrapper: Accounts, receipts, notes and other papers of no great value concerning the manor of Furtho between 1666 and 1675. Each item given a sub-number.

(a) Accounts (dated 14 July 1674) of receipts and disbursements for Edmund Arnold 30 May 1672 to 14 July 1674. Receipts (£68 19s 9d) are rent from various tenants; disbursements (£70 16s 4d) include repairs, king's tax, tax for militia, highways, six quarters for the rector, levy for church and poor. End'd: Accounts sent to Mr Arnold, 14 July 1674.

On back some rougher accounts dated 14 Aug. 1675, which are quit rents payments in; disbursements include tax, also chief rent payable to Helmdon court (8d for two years).

NRO, F.XIII.256 (7) Manor 1673

20 July 1673. Letter from Richard Stratten, Deanshanger, to Edmund Arnold, about collecting in rents from Furtho tenants.

NRO ZB 5/15 Misc. Deeds 1674

6 May 1674. Feoffment. George Smith of Cosgrove gent to Robert Corbett of Thornborough (Bucks) yeoman. Mess or farmhouse in Cosgrove with appts in ten George Smith. Tog with two closes or pightles of grass ground adjoining and 29.5a arable lands, leys and meadow grounds adj. lying dispersed in fields of Cosgrove and Furtho with commons and common of pasture for feeding and depasturing three horses, mares or geldings, 6 beasts or cows and 30 sheep in the commonable places of Cosgrove and Furtho. Conson £400.

NRO, F.XIII.256(2) Manor 1674

4 Aug. 1674. Copy petition from residents of Furtho complaining of overbearing and abusive behaviour of John Tomes, whose animals daily do damage in our fields.

(3) is the original petition, addressed to Edmund Arnold.

 (4) is a letter from Richard Stratton, Deanshanger, 14 July 1674, sending account as requested. Some tenants are in arrear, although this is not for want of demanding.

(5) is the first petition of tenants of Edmund Arnold of Furtho (2-3 are copies of the 2nd) regarding behaviour of John Tomes.

NRO, F.XIII.202 Manor 1674

2 Nov. 1674. Covenant to stand seised to uses for a  marriage already had between Edmund Arnold and Mary his wife, who convey to Paul Bowes esq. and Matthew Johnson both of the Middle Temple, manor of Furtho, manor house and site, lands at Furtho, Cosgrove, Potterspury and Old Stratford to use of EA for life, then to wife for her life as a jointure.

Closes named with tenants:
Vausses 19.3.30 Edward Harrison
Vausses Meadow 2.1.28 EH
Ewe Pasture 42.2.0 EH
Homeyard Meadow 5.1.37 EH
Crowgrove 8.3.11 EH
Ives Meadow 7.0.23 EH
Thombacks Close 4.2.27 Richard Hawlkins
Thornbacks Meadow 1.1.0 RH
Birds Close 4.0.2 Thomas Scrivener
One-third of Parted Close or Fretwells Partition Close TS
Hemis Meadow 7.0.20 John stirke
Willes Close 3.3.9 widow Bayly
Dovehouse Close 25a. Richard Stratton
Homeyard or the Home Close 20a. Thomas Mann
Ramm Close 9.0.2 Thomas Barrowes
Clay Close 20.0.11 Richard Scott
Middles Cuttles or Great Cuttles Meadow 7.1.22 Ralph Tompson
Little Cuttles Meadow 0.1.28 Bray Perrie
Hare Stockinges and Tree Close 27.3.0 William Browne and Richard Marlowe
Rigbies Pasture 53.3.28 Hipwell Penn
A lane called Temple Lane
And all those spinneys and wood grounds called Elme
Spinney 1.2.33, Vausses Spinney 2.3.30, Highway Spinney
1.3.37, Hare Stockinges Spinney 3.3.9.

XIII.203 is a draft, date not filled in, with note attached: Memorandum my deed inrolled is in the custody of Mr Henry Keene, who hath a mortgage upon Furtho for £600. Mr Keene is secretary and nephew to the Bishop (Laney) of Ely.

NRO, F.XIII.256 (1) Church 1675

Petition 12 April 1675 from numerous inhabs. of Potterspury. Furtho living is void by death of Mr Riall. Asks for preferment of Mr Newell our pious and painful minister. Well regarded in Potterspury and neighbouring towns. Also he needs the extra income from Furtho, since the income from Potterspury is so small, most being swallowed up by the impropriator. With 37 signatures.

F.XIII.256 (6)

Testimonial from rector of Passenham and other conc. John Mansell, schoolmaster of Beauchampton, recommending him as successor to Mr Riall, late rector of Furtho, deceased. 3 March 1674/5

Baker, ii. 158 Church Advowson 1675-1834

Advowson accompanied manor down to Edmund Arnold esq. who by will 1675 devised it to Jesus [College Oxford]. On presentation of Revd. N. P. Dobree in 1789 it was consolidated with rector of Wigginton (Oxon).

NRO, F.XII.1, f. 5 Arnold Charity 1676

Codicil to Edmund Arnold's will 22 March 1675/6.

Withdraws legacy to Cosgrove and transfers money to poor of Potterspury. Rings to various people, incl. Sir Leoline Jenkins; cash bequests to servants. Another request to wife and trustees to have regard to John Buncher, 'that Patterne of honesty'.

f. 5v

Nuncupative second codicil 24 March 1675/6, Edmund Arnold then lying sick at Kensington of illness whereof he died night of Sunday-Monday next following: another couple of small bequests, including his bows and arrows and what belongs to shooting.

NRO, F.XIII.62 Manor 1676

(e) is a particular account of all the rents in Furtho, likewise what grounds was raised of the rents before my uncle bought it, with the full rent of Home Ground and Meadow for the year 1676.

Hand similar to (but probably not the same as) (d).

List of parcels (not tenants' names) and rents, with marginal notes against most that they have been raised between 10s. and £8 p.a., mostly by £2. At the quit rents of £1 12s 11d have been added in to produce total of £256 16s 3d.

Note at end of a couple of rents that were raised and have since been lowered, and all the tenants do make great stir for abatement accordingly. So the rent was raised £30 p.a. higher than the old rent formerly, and likewise to that very end and purpose to make the purchase so much the greater, which made my uncle pay £4 or £500 more than he need have done, if he had been honestly dealt with, and did often bring complaint to me how unhandsomely he was dealt withall.

This sounds from content (and possibly also hand) as though it has been written by John Buncher after Edmund Arnold had died (? just after).

NRO, F.XIII.62 Manor c.1676

(f) Appears to be a continuation, by John puncher, of notes in (e), apparently from a letter. Sir, After writing my letter (i.e. (e)), I thought good to give you some account, to signify several charges and payments that issue out of the rents of Furtho.

To the minister there £20.

To the church, poor, constables, mending the highways, which vary from year to year; repairs on estate; other payments, since the tenants are exempted, the landlord pays all. Total £30.

To King's taxes, which are about £15 p.a.

Rents falling, if they do not abate in the whole. £40.

If I should outlive my aunt, then my annuities £15 and £10 p.a. for life, making £25 p.a.

Total £130, which deduct from £255 3s 4d rents and quit rents, leave net income of £125 3s 4d. I have omitted several other charges, besides quartering of soldiers. It is probable that Cosgrove will send soldiers to me as they have done to others that lived here before. They claim that Furtho represents a third of the estate, so that if 300 soldiers are sent to Cosgrove cum Furtho they will send 100 of them to me, to which purpose they have already given notice, which will also be a great charge.

Attached to this is (g). a slip of paper listing rents totalling £256 15s. 10d. No date.

Cal. S.P. Dom. 1683-4. 219. Church 1684

1684 17 January. Letter of Secretary Jenkins to the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford: notes that ‘your parsonage of Furtho is now vacant’ and that a ‘good man’ should be presented.

NRO, F.XIII.60  Arnold Charity 1693-4

File of receipts includes bill from inn in Stony Stratford (not named) for a commission held there 3 Sept. 1694. 13 ordinaries in the great room 26s., 18 servants and townsmen 18s., wine 9s. 4d., beer its. 2d., hay for 12 horses 2s. Total £3 8s 6d. Paid by John Buncher.

Also includes for 1694 payment of quit rent to Maynard [for Cosgrove manor] and of quit rent belonging to Hel[m]don court [i.e. the Duchy court].

Next receipt is similar for 1693: 10d (4d rent and 6d suit fine) due to the King being part of the Duchy of Lancaster. And another printed receipt for Honor of Grafton, Manor of Alderton, for chief rent at 6s 9d p.a.

And a receipt for 10s., for two years 'for Cosgrove highway through Furtho'. And a constable's rate for Cosgrove.

B.L. Add. Ch. 18055 Manor 1695

1695. Final concord whereby Edward Mansell and Millicent his wife and Edward Mansell junior convey to John Mansell and Edward Draper lands in Cosgrove, OS, YG, Furtho and Coggenhoe.

B.L. Add. Ch. 18057, 18058 Manor 1695

1695, 20 Dec. Quadriptartite indre between:
1. Edward Mansell the elder and Millicent Mansell
2. Edward Mansell the younger
3. John Mansell and Edward Draper
4. John Hatfield, George Westby and Frances Saxton

Rehearsing the marriage settlement of 1660, inc. the provision of £350 marriage portion by Edward Draper and the conveyance to the use of Edward Draper of lands, tenements and cottages in Cosgrove, Furtho, Old Stratford and Yardley Gobion to John Mansell and Edward Draper.

Settlement for the marriage of Edward Mansell the younger to Frances Saxton. Edward Mansell the elder grants all his lands, tenements etc. in Cosgrove, Furtho, Old Stratford, Yardley Gobion and Coggenhoe to Edward Mansell yr. These lands then conveyed to the use of Edward Mansell, or his wife should he die, to George Westby, brother of Frances Saxton and John Hatfield.

Separate schedule outlining the sums to be paid to John, Christopher, Charles and Edward Mansell by their father Edward Mansell the elder should he died before they reach 23.

B.L. Add. Ch. 18058 is counterpart.

NRO, F.XIII.61 Manor 1702-5

Pp. 62-5: Furtho accounts LD 1702 - LD 1705:

Received of Mr Sheppard, the Regester's widd. £14 15s 2d.

Received of John Buncher by Mr Mansell towards his debt £20; of Wm How towards sd debt of Buncher £10. Total £30.

Received of William How the new tenant a year's rent ending LD 1703 £51; of several tenants for rent due LD 1703 £126 8s 5d; total £177 8s 5d.

Received of Wm How a year's rent ending LD 1704 £176; of Wm How for Buncher's rent £20. Total £196.

Recd of Wm How a year's rent ending LD 1705 £206.

How must succeed Buncher in 1702 and then get a lease of the whole estate, instead of there being 14 other tenants.

By 1705 receipts back to same figure as in Buncher's day.

Disbursements: taxes for each year 1702, 1703, 1704.

Conveyance to new trustees; charges when the court was kept and mending the pound; quit rent to queen and Helmdon court; payment to Cosgrove wardens in lieu of highway; dinner at How's for trustees; Cosgrove quit rent; payment of the charities.

Auditors' as is

signatures (i.e. the trustees) at the end, • the case with previous accounts.

NRO, F.XI.1 Manor 1703

10 April 1703. Lease from trustees (named) of Edmund Arnold to Wm How of Furtho yeoman of the manor of Furtho and its lands for 7 years at £176 p.a.

NRO ML 1289, p. 173  Honor c.1705

Farm of a coppice called Notwood Copice within forest of Whittlewood [leased] to Edward Mansell esq. at yearly rent of £2 15s. 0d

Marginated Whittle wood but this is surely in Notwood in Furtho.

NRO, F.XIII.61 Manor 1706-7

pp. 66-: Accounts LD 1706-1707. Didbursments stated more briefly than previous years. Rent still £206. Payments include:

Paid towards casting the bell at Furtho £3.
Building a cowhouse, covering the thatching £5 13s.
Mr How for our dinner and servants’ vailes £3 10s.

NRO, F.XIII.214 Arnold Charity 1707

Quit rental, undated but showing amounts due to Michaelmas 1707 (some cases 1706), some of them for owing for several years past. Total receipts £5 14s. 10d., with another 15s. added at bottom in another hand, making £6 9s. 10d.

Includes Goody Hillier for the Falcon in Old Stratford for five years 4s. 2d.

Appears to be as seen for other years, with premises identified as being Cock Inn and Pepper Alley in Stony Stratford, premises in Old Stratford, Baywards Watering, Yardley, Potterspury and Cosgrove.

NRO BNP 4-6 Deeds 1708-42

Three deeds, 1708, 1721, 1742, re an estate in Cosgrove, Furtho and Potterspury, incl farmhouse in Cosgrove and land there and two other parishes.

BNP 76 9 March 1720, is deed to lead to uses of fine relating to the same premises as BNP 4-6

NRO, F.XI. 12  Manor Court  1711

8 Oct. 1711. Rental (in English) of free tenants presented at the manor court. Place names:

Chapple Furlong in Cosgrove
Land called the Breides
A Sert Sellar near the Riding by Grub Hill
Close called Bushby
Falcoln and Mill Close parcel of Boxtree Yard
Ash Grove close in Cosgrove
Ten. near the Falcon in Old Stratford
Bird Close in Furtho and Cosgrove
Pudsdole in Potterspury
Land near Baywards Watering
Close in Cosgrove called Kemps Close
Cock Inn in Stony Stratford

NRO Misc.QS 293, i.35   Manor 1719   

Thomas Thirnton esq, Richard Freeman, William Tumnell, Jo Mansill and Francis Arundell esq appoint Captain Charles Arundell their gamekeeper for the Manor of Furtho 14 June 1719.

Bridges, i. 296 General Topic 1720

Furtho is bounded on east by a small brook names Cuttle Brook, on north by Potterspury and Yardley, on west by Watling Street, and on south by Cosgrove.

In this lordship is only one house, with church, though remains of a former village to be seen.
Through this village, before the inclosure, which was made by Edward Furtho, who lived in the reign of James I, the great road passed from London to Northampton; and by this means the town is supposed to have been depopulated.

Four houses in Old Stratford, whereof one is the rectorial house of Furtho, and three houses in Cosgrove, are within the limits of this parish.

Bridges, i. 297 Church 1720

Church, which stands on a small ascent, is dedicated to St Bartholomew, and consists of a body leaded and chancel tiled. At the west end is a low embattled tower, in which is only one small bell. The length of the church and chancel is 46 ft. The breadth of the church is 17 ft 10 in., and the breadth of the chancel 14 ft. The length of the tower is 15 ft and the breadth of it 18 ft.

The register bears date in 1696.

The church was built at the sole expense of Edward Furtho, the lord of this manor in reign of James I.

Right of patronage is in Jesus College, Oxford, to whom it was given by the will of Edmund Arnold esq. It is in the deanery of Preston.

On pp. 297-8 a list of patrons and incumbents.

Bridges, i. 298 Church 1720

MIs in church:

On a gravestone on south side of chancel is inscription in Latin: Here lies Edmund Arnold esq., formerly lord, under God, of this manor, who died 27 March 1676.

On north side of chancel, under an old arch, lies a marble, on which were the effigies of a man and his two wives, with a tablet at their feet, and a shield of arms at each corner, but these are now defaced. It is probably the monument of Anthony Furtho, who was twice married, and died in the first year of reign of Elizabeth I.

NRO, F.XIII.215 General Topic Arnold Charity 1720

Account of trees in several grounds belonging to the manor of Furtho, begun 30 Sept. 1719 and finished 5 April 1720.

Total 542 oaks, 30 elms, 512 ashes. Appear to be other oaks lately sawed off close to the ground.

XIII. 216 a fair copy of 215.

NRO, F.XIII.217 Arnold Charity General Topic 1722-25

File, sewn at top and tightly rolled, of bills for work done for Thomas French (ironmongery, mason's work, carpentry, locks, glazing and thatching). Also total of bills and list of bills paid by Thomas French 1724-5 and similar for 1724-5.

Includes long list of door and gate furniture, also nails of various types, but no indication of where bought; mason's work includes bills for lime and 'building bricks' as well as 'paving bricks', several weeks' labour repairing named farm buildings, incl. the dovehouse; also quarry glass (several feet); straw for thatching outbuildings.

NRO Misc. QS 293, I.46 Manor  1723    

Mr Arundell, Mr Maunsell and Mr Freeman, lords of the Manor of Furtho, appoint Thomas French their gamekeeper for sd manor 23 April 1723.

NRO, F.XIII.204 Arnold Charity 1725

21 Oct. 1725. Counterpart lease from trustees to Thomas French of Furtho, yeoman, of manor, manor house and estate at Furtho, 21 years from Lady Day last past at £226 p.a., and £5 per acre for extra land converted to tillage. Reserving quit rents, woods and underwoods to lessors. Tenant to keep premises in repair: other covenants appear to be standard. Tenant may plow up certain named closes, but no others without prior consent.

NRO, F.XIII. 74  Local Govt 1725

VFP and court baron 21 October 1725, held by Leonard Thompson, steward. Jury of 12.

Court baron items: admittance to a mess. called Pepper Alley, rent 6d.; moiety of a close called Bushby, rent 1d.; Alice Horton on behalf of infant son Thomas, taking close called Aslicroft, rent 3d.; and numerous other changes in ownership of free tenements, incl. the Cock Inn in Stony Stratford.

No leet business. Ends with rental of free tenements. Same list as in earlier court rolls. Falcon in Old Stratford and Cock Inn in Stony Stratford both listed. 32 numbered entries, with quit rents, but figure is not totalled.

NRO, F.XIII.95 Arnold Charity 1725

Bundle of vouchers includes a letter from Francis Arundell at Courtenhall (one of trustees), 1 Nov. 1725 to Thomas Thornton at Brockhall (trustee), passing accounts. Repair bill is very large but appears to be right. Ratnet etc came to see me the other day and insisted they should be allowed £20 off their rent; agreed; we must call this money lost by our tenant who was hanged; details of how this is best bargain we can hope for during a change of tenant; would otherwise have lost more rent. Tenant who was hanged is not named.

NRO, F.XIII. 103  Local Govt 1725

In bundle of vouchers wrapped in 1723-4 accounts is a list of rents, alienations and reliefs received at a court held for the manor of Furtho 21 Oct. 1725. Small amount mostly quit rents presumably.

NRO, F.XIII. 108 Local Govt 1725-32

Vouchers for 1740-1 include bill for legal services from Samuel Hartshorne, paid 26 March 1741, which includes cost of engrossing roll for court held in 1725, when Mr Thomson was steward. And the same for a court in 1732.

NRO, F.XIII. 100  Local Govt. 1727

Bundle of vouchers with a couple of letters from Francis Arundell to Thomas Thornton wrapped up with them, one of which (20 Oct. 1727) says Mr Thomson who keeps our courts is dead and I am solicited on behalf of one Prichard of Stony Stratford who was bred a clerk under him to succeed him, and I am sold that Mr Mansell is desirous he should be the person. He living near may be a proper person, if you approve of him, and it will be of little advantage to anyone that lives at a distance, considering how seldom we keep our courts. However, I believe you will think it proper that we should get our court rolls out of the widow's hands.

NRO, F.XI. 21 Manor Court c.1730

Undated (dated c.1730 in list from names of jurors) rentals of free tenements. Same places names as other lists around this date.

NRO, F.XI.13 Manor Court 1732

Furtho manor court, 16 Oct. 1732. List of lords, who must be trustees of Arnold Charity: Francis Arundell, Richard Freeman, Thomas Thornton, Bartholomew Tate, Thomas Leigh clerk, Wm Thomson and Wm Rushton. Samuel Hartshorne steward.

No heading for pleas. List of essoins. Jury of 14. No leet orders. List of changes of free tenants, with holdings names and quit rents listed.

Includes one re ten. near Falcon Inn, Old Stratford (qv).

F.XI.14 is a duplicate, more neatly written.

F.XI.15 is a suit roll and list of rents from the same court. The rents have the same place-names as in previous lists.

F.XI716 are paper drafts of the 26 Oct. 1732 court roll, incl. the presentments in English: straightforward baron business, reporting death of free tenants since the last court and admission of theirs heirs etc on doing fealty and payment of relief.

NRO, F.XIII.218 General Topic Arnold Charity 1738

Samuel Blaxley’s survey of all the trees in the manor of Furtho, 21 April 1738

List of maiden oaks and ashes, and pollard oaks, ashes and elms in each field. Total valuation: maiden oaks £57 13s. or maiden oaks, £25 3s. for pollard ashes and elms.

NRO, F.XIII.259 Arnold Charity 1740

21 Nov. 1740. Wm Thomson, Cosgrove, to Thomas Thornton. Mr. Scrivener was with me and assured that he and another good man would be security for Mr Church, if he and French can agree for the remaining part of the lease. I would be glad if we could get rid of French, Scrivener tells me he is ‘now cutting and mangling the estate in a most vile & scandalous way', but these are complaints I have often made and am now quite tired of making them; believe that French and Bradford acted their parts very well at Furtho, believe it was nothing but design and trick. Our affairs are now in a strange posture, let me know if there is anything I can do.

NRO, F.XIII. 110 Local Govt 1741

Bundle of vouchers for 1741-2 includes a printed receipt, 29 April 1741, for payment of land tax by the collectors for the town of Cosgrove with Furtho (bold text filled in by hand).

NRO, F.XIII.260 Arnold Charity 1741

14 Dec. 1741. Thomson to Thornton. Alexander has asked me and another for a deputation, which we think reasonable; please sign and he can have it at next sessions. He will give you an account of how basely French goes on with what little he now occupies, and desires he may have no leave to go on any longer than Lady Day next [1742]?, which was our resolution at our last meeting. How does Holloway go on with his bargain? Am afraid if he goes on a few years more as he has done, he will do land more harm than he ever did it good.

NRO, F.XI. 17 Manor Court 1742

29 April 1742. Bundle of paper drafts of court roll. Several baron presentments re changes in free tenants (no leet business). Rental includes following place-names:

Chapel Furlong in Cosgrove
Parcel of land called the Breads
An Assart Sollar near the Riding by Grub Hill
Close called Bushby
Mill Close, parcel of Boxtree Yard
Mess. or Inn called the Falcon in Old Stratford
Bird Close in Furtho and Cosgrove
Moiety of Pudsdole
Lands near Biards Watering
Close in Potterspury called Kempsons
Cock Inn in Stony Stratford

NRO, F.XIII.14 Arnold Charity 1746

Bundle of vouchers wrapped in accounts for 1746-7. Latter Includes two half-yearly payments of rent by Mr Church and Alexander, each payment (by the two of them) being £113.

Bills include several for several weeks work on the barn and dairy at the farm between May and September 1746.

Several different tradesmen's bills. A number of bills for labour and materials. Quite extensive rebuilding.

NRO, F.XIII.116 Arnold Charity 1748

Accounts and vouchers for 1748 include bill for work done on dovehouse by Thomas Lepper. Repairing the pigeonholes, tiling, plastering outside, and mason’s work.

John Alexander and William Church are tenants this year, still paying £266 p.a.

NRO, F.XIII.220 Arnold Charity 1748

Slip of paper headed ‘1748’ listing four fields on estate.

NRO, F.XIII.121 Arnold Charity General Topic 1753

Bundle of vouchers with accounts, including bills for building work: new cellar, stone stairs down, paving cellar floor, new ceiling in the great parlour and plastering it with stucco mortar, amending plastering and ceilings in other rooms about the house, whitewashing and building a new side wall to the stable, putting new window in the dairy, glazing and blacksmithing, amending and underbuilding one side and end wall of the house.

NRO, F.XIII.267 Arnold Charity 1755

10 March 1755. C. Rigby, Cosgrove, to the acting commissioners of the Dunchurch to Old Stratford turnpike road. I obliged one Hill of Liverpool to pay the penalty for being without a board on his waggon in Nov. last, but upon enquiry find twas contrary to the man's will, and  that misdemeanour was wholly and entirely owing to the ill conduct or neglect of his son, an untoward boy, to his father's great grief. And as Hill has got two broad wheel waggons in conformity to authority, and was about a third when I saw him, I take him to be a very honest man, so I should be glad if you would order a return of the money.

John Bloxham has been very faithful in doing his duty, but I could do no less than excuse a miller or two or three farmers, of whom he informed me, their crimes being very small, or none at all.

NRO, F.XI. 18 Manor Court 1757

List of jurors (14) for a court on 5 May 1757. Thomas Thornton, Bartholomew Tate and others lords, Samuel Hartshorne steward.

F.XI. 19

Rest of papers for same court. List of quit rents totals £24 9s 5d, but this is because some tenants are paying for up to 25 years at one go.

No leet business. Presentments of changes for free tenants with fealty and reliefs paid.

NRO, F.XIII.221 Church 1758

Slip of paper with transcript of Edmund Arnold’s MI and note that Thomas Leppar undertakes to lay down a new stone for £3 without any further charge to the trustees for any other matter. 31 May 1758

NRO, F.XIII.270 Local Govt 1766-9

Thomas Freeman, Daventry to Thomas Thornton, 26 April 1766. I received the Furtho court rolls safe. As your Furtho tenant seem not to want a court this year and as you left choice to me, I will with your leave hold one next year. I will return the court rolls at the first opportunity.

F.X111.273 1768

Same to same, 19 Oct. 1768. Will send my son to Mr Alexander to fix date for a court, which must be either Monday or Saturday, as Tuesday is Towcester market, Wednesday Daventry market, Thursday our fair, Friday Stratford market.

PS: I hear that Alexander or his son is being prosecuted by Duke about a deer and that his greyhound is actually taken away. Observe that last court was held 5 May 1757, before that 29 April 1742; spring the best time to hold a court, so I suggest next spring. Chief rents will wait till then. Please advise.

F.XIII.274 1769

Same to same. 11 April 1769. Have settled on 17th for a court. Will do so as best I can but papers are confused and no clear list of chief rents. Hope there will be a quorum when we meet at Saracen Head next Friday. [Old Stratford]

F.XIII.275 is an undated mid c18 note from Wm Sherd at Wakefield Lodge asking for the chief rent due to Duke from Furtho Manor be paid. Please fill up blank form enclosed and return with money.

NRO YZ 4553(Series of Misc. series) Misc. Deeds 1768

12 Oct 1768. Release from John Rookes of Potterspury, labourer, nephew and heir at law and devisee of Wm Peake of Potterspury, yeoman, to Reuben Capes of Potterspury yeoman for £150, of a close called Barnfield Close in Cosgrove, Furtho and Potterspury (4.5a)

NRO, F.XI.20 Manor Court 1769

Manor court papers, 17 April 1769, held at the Manor House, Furtho. Trustees listed as lords of manor. Thomas Freeman is steward.

Baron presentments as at previous courts for premises in Old Stratford, Stony Stratford and Potterspury, incl. sale of Falcon Inn, noted under Old Stratford.

Long list of essoins (19, more than earlier in 18th century). Thirteen jurors.

Also the appointment of a constable and thirdborough for Furtho: first appointment of this kind noted on any of the 18th-century rolls.

Post inclosure : and of Cosgrove constable having jurisdiction over Furtho.

NRO, F.XII. 75 Local Govt 1769

Engrossed rental on parchment, 17 April 1769, and various items on paper from courts around this date.

Rental lists rents for each property as in previous lists and arrears, which total £18 14s. Annual rents not totalled. Includes Falcon (called Falcon Hill) and Cock Inn in Stony Stratford.

Among papers are note of chief rents collected by steward, Thomas Freeman, attorney of Daventry. Court being held at the Manor House. Chief rents listed on one of sheets, totalled at £9 5s.for 12 years. Another list, called quit rents but the same mounts and premises, totals £18 14s for 12 years.

NRO, F.XIII. 139 Arnold Charity General Topic 1771

Bundle of vouchers for 1771 incl. itemised bill for building a new brewhouse joining to the house. Brewhouse is 16ft x 18ft, with doors into kitchen and dairy (in house) and into yard. House shown on plan to left of new building. Walling of stone, brick flooring, tiled roof.

Same bundle also includes a printed honor of Grafton receipt for 7s. 1d. quit rent due to the manor of Potterspury, 10 Oct. 1770.

NRO, F.XIII. 224 Arnold Charity General Topic 1773

Copy of lordship and planned by Robert Watson of Stoke Bruerne

Pencil note at foot: coppice, 3.3.22, 0.3.9, 1.3.17, 3.1.23, totals 9.3.31.

NRO, F.XIII.209 Arnold Charity 1774

6 April 1774. Lease from trustees to John Pittam of Furtho, grazier, of manor house and specified lands at Furtho, heretofore in occ. of Thomas French and late of William Church and John Alexander. Rent £226 p.a. Term seven years.

Not a lease of the manor for the first time. Lands are specified but the same as previous let to W.C. and JA. Premises now in occ. of lessee (Pittam).

NRO, F.XII. 76 Local Govt 1784

Manor court roll, 20 Oct. 1784. Jury of 15. Constable (John Pittam) and thirdborough (John Tidman) appointed for Furtho. Several baron entries, suggesting that courts only held at fairly lengthy intervals and so a relatively large number of charges of ownership of freeholds to note.

NRO, ZA 370 Local Govt 1787

Bound court book for Cosgrove, 1787-1848, with name George Biggin esq. on front board and title on back board. Note in front that it was presented to NRS by Markhams, 1940. Very handsomely bound but not folioed and largely empty.

Starts with VFP, Leet and Baron of George Biggin esq. lord of manor of Cosgrove, held at Cosgrove 24 Sept. 1787 by Thomas Ewesdin gent. his steward.

Jury of 16; 3 essoins.

Present John Pittam to execute office of constable for Furtho within this manor who was present and was sworn.

Also present John Franklin for office of constable for Cosgrove within this manor, who was sworn.

Also present Francis Kightley (not Knightley) as thirdborough fox Cosgrove and Furtho, who was sworn.

Also present John Dawson as hayward for Cosgrove and Furtho, who was sworn.

Lengthy list of presentments of free tenants with premises in Stony Stratford in one case and 'on the Green' in a couple, as well as no place stated on other occasions. 14 transactions in all.

Then on to bounds (noted under Gen. Top.)

NRO, F.XII.77 Local Govt 1792

Court leet and baron, 25 Oct. 1792. Very similar to 1784 court. John Pittam and John Tidman continued as constable and thirdborough. Lengthy list of court baron business: freeholds within the manor changing hands.

No presentments. Similar list of chief rents to previous years. Columns for annual rent and for 8 years, which must be interval since last court (i.e. from 1784). There court must be meeting only periodically.

No leet business or presentments.

NRO, F.XIII.211 Arnold Charity 1808

16 Sept. 1808. Lease from trustees to Thomas Pittam of Furtho, grazier, of manor house and specified lands as in 1781. Seven years at £410 p.a. Premises now in occ. of TP. No ref. to previous occupiers. Covenants appear standard. Arable not to be sewn with other than wheat, rye, barley, peas, beans, oats, vetches or turnips; may not plant woad, hemp, rape or flax.

NRO, F.XIII.222 Arnold Charity General Topic c18

Slip of paper with note (said in list to be hand of Thomas Thornton) of proposed repairs to farm buildings. Shed at back of cowhouse to be taken down and another shed, where the wood lies, to be raised for a hen roost. Reroof dairy and floor mended. Part of side walls of barn near house to be rebuilt and new roof made for three bays of it, timber of it being ash, much decayed, and the roof sunk. South wall of the house be pinned up at the bottom and the tiling of the dovehouse be put in repair. It may be proper to have some of the walls painted about the house and outbuildings.

NRO, F.XII. 78 Local Govt 1811

Court leet and baron, 9 May 1811. Thomas Pittam constable, George Cave thirdborough. Lengthy list of ownership changes recorded, as in previous years. No leet business. Separate list of chief rents as before, showing 19 years [1792] arrears totalling £29 12s 2d, which must be the amounts actually paid, since the annual figures are not totalled.

Also a short list of chief rents that were in arrears in 1769 so that is now 54 [1757] years owing.

NRO, F.XIII.228 Arnold Charity 1814-19

Small pocket account book. John Mansel in account with Trustees. Detail of repairs carried out by Major Mansel, piece work, day work and materials, with cash received from trustees on other side. Starts Nov. 1814, ends Sept. 1819.

NRO, F.XII. 79 Local Govt 1818

Court leet and baron, 13 April 1818. Robert Pittam constable, George Caves thirdborough. Usual baron entries; no leet business. List of chief rents, with total for 7 years, £10 18s 2d, also four entries listed as arrears from 1769.

Separate suit roll is in form of a letter addressed to Robert Pittam at the Manor House, Furtho. And another list of chief or quit rents, with entries numbered, totalling 28, with same total of £10 18s 2d for 7 [1811] years.

NRO, F.XII.99 Manor 1820

Bundle of letters re quit rents.

12 May 1848. Steward of manor of Cosgrove to trustees, demanding arrears of quit rent due from trustees for manor of Furtho to the lord of the manor of Cosgrove, 5s. p.a. Appear to be arrears for 43 years; please send £10 15s. With note inside re payment for 33 years to manor of Cosgrove to Mich. 1820. And similiar in 1787 for 18 years. And paid (amount unstated) quit rent to Duke of Grafton up to 1834.

1818: List of quit rents due from J. Mansell to the lords of the manor of Furtho: seven years at 13s. = £4 11s. Lists six parcels, all of which have names similar to those in 17^th century rentals of free tenants (the Brides, acre in Chapel Furlong etc, money in lieu of a capon etc).

1821: Receipt for quit rent paid by trustees to John Christopher Mansell as lord of the manor of Cosgrove, £8 5s for 33 years quit rent. With a letter 12 July 1848 from clerk in reply to letter of 12 May, citing this receipt: since then no quit rents seem to have been paid by Furtho to Cosgrove. But Mr Mansell also owes 13s. p.a. for manor of Cosgrove to manor of Furtho, which have not been received since 1820. Balance in favour of Furtho £6 16s.. please remit.

NRO, F.XIII.229-230 General Topic Arnold Charity 1821

Two identical small notebook containing two copies of a valuation of timber on Furtho farm in occ. Robert Pittam, taken by John Cole, 11 April 1821.

Very detailed, with length and girth of each tree, field by field. Total value of timber £1,103 19s 3d. 26 different parcels have some timber on them; main ones are Hare Stocking Spinney £177 and Crow Spinney £221, also Foddering Close £72, Church Meadow £60, Lower Vase £52, Upper Vase £50. Rest are less then £50.

NRO, ZA 370 Local Govt 1821

Second court in Cosgrove court book is 31 May 1821, court of John Christopher Mansel taken by Charles Markham, steward.

Jury of 12.

Appoint: Robert Pittam constable of Furtho within this manor, George Caves thirdborough of Furtho, John Battams constable of Cosgrove, Matthew Willison thirdborough of Cosgrove, Edward Jones hayward for Cosgrove and Furtho.

Rest all to do with Cosgrove.

NRO, F.XII.4 General Topic 1825

Undated contemp. MS copy of Charity Commissioners' report on Arnold Charity, 1825.

Edmund Arnold said to have died about 1689. Summarises Provisions of will, and Chancery action following widow's death in Jan. 1691/2. Manor and estate have been conveyed from time to time to new trustees and now vest in Robert Andrews, John Plomer Clarke, Thomas Reeve Thornton, Revd Francis Montgomery, Revd John Lloyd Crawley.

Ppty consist of manor of Furtho and land there totalling 274.3.18 acc. to survey of 1765 and woodland of 10.1.26. Some small parcels have been planted since 1765. Farm is let to Robert Pittom from year to year at £400, plus composition in lieu of tithes of £20 7s 6d; estate is let for full value. Land tax redeemed by sale of timber.

In 1814-20 farmhouse and outbuildings were extensively repaired and for most part rebuilt, and several of fields were subdivided and improved at cost of £1951 11s 2.25d, which was defrayed from money in hands of trustees, arising principally from former timber sales and a sale of decaying timber in 1815 which raised £1007 6s. 0d. Estate now in very good condition and standing timber was valued in 1821 at £1103 19s 3d.

Estate in 1693 was let at £204 but subject to payment of modus of £20 7s 6d and all taxes and levies. Trustees as lords of the manor receive quit rents of £1 11s and compositions in lieu of capons; estate has to pay 8s 1d in quit rent.

Trustees pay out surplus income in proportion to each charity, except the two ministers' stipends which remain as in the will. Other charities now get four times the amounts in the will. This augmentation would be accepted by a court of equity but since some doubt arises as to whether the two ministers should not also have a share, we advise the trustees to get counsel's opinion.

Boys are chosen for apprenticeships on recommendation of parish officers; put out as opportunities and funds permit; poor relief money paid out to parish officers. Separate accounts kept of each branch of charity, plus general receipts and payments account. At 30 Sept. 1824 treasurer had £283 19s 10.5d. in hand, of which £240 11s was accumulation belonging to Upper Heyford charity and rest due to Stowe and Weedon Bec branches. Charges on charity are 5 gns to clerk and expenses of yearly meeting, which vary for £4 to £6.

Marginal note in later hand queries comment that no direction was obtained from Chancery concerning division of surplus, and notes decree of 21 Dec. 1697 which says it should not go to two ministers but to other branches of the charity, incl. Merton scholars.

Against suggestion of taking counsel's opinion, query as to whether this was ever done. Answer: see decree of 21 Dec. 1697. No in Registrar's Book 186.

NRO, 364p/51   Charity 1833    

Bound volume in Wicken parish records of 1825 Charity Commissioners report on Northants with MS additions, presumably by rector of Wicken.  The front cover has a label, “Report of charities, Deanery of Preston”, with names of Rev R Wake and two rural Deans, one of whom is Rev. H I Barton, which explains why in Wicken records.

MS sheets added at end contain lengthy notes on Arnold charity.

28 Oct 1833

Also NRO, 364p.51 contd 1 and 2

Bound vol. in Wicken pa. recs. of 1825 Charity Commissioners' report on Northants., with MS additions, Presumably by a rector of Wicken. The front cover has the label, 'Report of Charities. Deanery of Preston', with the names of Revd R. Wake and two rural deans, one of whom is Revd H.I. Barton, which presumably explains why it is in Wicken records.

MS sheets added at end contain lengthy note on Arnold Charity.

Edmund Arnold esq., proctor in Doctors Commons, was born at Heyford sometime prior to 7 June 1607, when he was bapt. at Stow IX Churches. First part of ed. at Weedon Beck and served clerkship at St Giles, N'ton. Died Kensington 27 March 1675/6, leaving by will his manor and estate of Furtho in trust, first to his widow, afterwards Lady Etheridge, for her life, and after her decease 21 Dec. 1691 to Sir Lionel Jenkins kt, William Dyre and Matthew Johnson, and his sole exor, Thomas Bedford of Doctors Commons.

To parish of Nether Heyford annually for apprenticing poor children £10 and towards relief of the poor £5. To Stony Stratford for apprenticing £20 and £5 to poor. In putting out children of the poor of St Giles £10 and £5 for poor. In putting out at Upper Heyford £5. Apprenticing children from Stowe or Little Stowe £5. For apprenticing children from town of Weedon Beck £5. To poor scholars of Merton College, £20. To an orthodox officiating minister of Stony Stratford, approved by ministers of Furtho, Cosgrove, Passenham and Calverton £20. To vicar of Potterspury £10. NB: The last two bequests are by a decree of Chancery, 23 July 1694, made payable quarterly for the benefit of their executors in case of their deaths. Some additional notes quoted from will, and also Instructions to Trustees appended to will. Copy of will is in possession of Revd J.L.L. Crawley, rector of Nether Heyford.

Manor and estate of Furtho conists of 285.1.6, of which 10.1.28 are woodland, besides its manorial appendages, chief rents, alienations etc to be noticed elsewhere.

Value of estate when Lady Etheridge died was £240, as estimated to Chancery, out of which £120 was allocated charities. Balance ordered by Chancery 15 June 1692 to be applied to augmentation of charities, except bequests to ministers of Potterspury and Stony Stratford. Decree confirmed 1693 and 1694, and by Lord Keeper's Decree 1694 and by House of Lords on appeal, 1698.

Appears to have been another decee 1697. All this can be found in large trunk containing title deeds etc in custody of Thomas Reeve Thornton esq. of Brockhall, one of trustees.

Note dated Heyford, 29 Oct. 1833.

Rent of Furtho Farm:

From Lady Etheridge's death (1691) to 1727, £204 p.a.

1727-1808 - £226 p.a.

1808-1821 - £410 p.a.

1821-1826 - £440 p.a.

In lieu of 35s. an acre or £483 p.a. which the tenant agreed to pay, deducting only the modus £21, the trustees having recently expended £2,080 on improvement of buildings and estate, it was agreed by them 4 Oct. 1822 to accept £400 for y/e LD 1822, and £440 as above for subsequent years, on account of the depressed value of agricultural produce.

In compliance with John West's valuation, employed y the trustees to survey the estate, from Lady Day 1831 £390.

Then a list of money added to the original charitable bequests. For every £5 of charity, additions of  betweennil and £5 added between 1728 and 1812 (rising latter figure at end of this period); then £10 in 1813, £16 in 1814-23, £15 in 1824-31 and £12 in 1832 years.

Courts held in 1742 (chief rents and alienations 1757 (£24), 1769 (£18), 1784 (£24), 1792 (£12), 1811 (£27), 1818 (£12), 1834 (£8). £16),

Then a list of appointments of trustees from those appointed by will in 1676 down to 1801.

Tenants, from the demise of Lady Etheridge (variously stated in does. as St Thomas's Day 1691 or 8 Jan. 1691/2):

St Thomas Day 1691 to Lady Day 1702 John Buncher, nephew to Dr Arnold rent , £204

Inscription on Mr Arnold's grave in the chancel of Furtho church, according to the directions of his will, with the addition of his date of his demise: Hic iacet Emundus Arnold armiger, quondam dominus (sub Deo) huius manerii, qui obiit 27 Martii 1676.

NB: No register at Furtho prior to 29 Sept. 1696.

With list of disbursements in 1833, totalling £379. This includes clerk' salary, cost of new trust deed, cost of annual meeting of trustees. Also a quit rent to Grafton of 7s. 5d. The charities received £12 surplus for every £5 of charity in the will, but no extra for the two ministers also paid modus of £20 7s. 6d. to rector of Furtho  and 12s. 6d. to rector of Cosgrove.

Baker, ii. 159 Church 1834

Church, dedicated to St Bartholomew, was rebuilt by Edward Furtho esq. in 1620 and consists of low broad tower cont. only one small bell, nave and chancel. Tower is 15ft long x 17ft 10in. wide; nave 25ft x 18ft; chancel 24ft 2in. x 14ft 15in.

Interior is paved with stone and pewed. Plain octagonal font faces south entrance. Tower, nave and chancel are of one pace (sic); nave communicates with each through an open arch.

Two mons. mentioned. On north side of chancel under low circular arch is a marble slab on which were brass figures about 2ft long of a man between his two wives, and a shield at each corner; probably intended for Anthony Furtho esq., and removed from the old church.

On marble slab on south side is mon. to Edmund Arnold esq., lord of this manor, who died 27 March 1676.

NRO, F.XII.106 Church 1834

16 Aug. 1843 Note that Revd John Williams Mason took possession of Furtho church. 20^th: various people came to view dilapidations, and Mr Badcock of Oxford came to put a price on land etc.

19 Oct. 1843. Archdeacon and rector of Stoke Bruerne came to view church.

F.XII.107

19 Feb. 1858 Letter from archdeacon of N’ton to clerk, asking trust for help with cost of repairs, pews, floors and roof, with the bell, are in a very bad state, but with a little expense might be made one of the nicest little churches in archdeaconry.

22 Feb. Reply, saying trustees will be sympathetic but not clear whether their trust allows them to use money for this purpose.

Baker, ii. 128 [under Cosgrove] General Topic 1834

This parish (Cosgrove), prior to the inclosure, was inconveniently and inexplicably intermingled with Potterspury. Part of Cosgrove village green with two houses were in the latter parish; part of Brownswood Green adjoining the village of Potterspury was in Cosgrove parish; and another isolated portion of this parish, called Kenson Field, was inclosed under same Act as Potterspury and Yardley (1775).

Open fields of Cosgrove, consisting of three distinct tithings, called Cosgrove tithing, Furtho tithing and Potterspury tithing, computed at about 1700a. but found to be 1626a. by survey, were incl. 7 Geo. III (1767), when the part of Cosgrove Green, reputed to be in Potterspury, was transferred to manor and parish of Cosgrove; and the part of Brownswood Green reputed to be in Cosgrove, was transferred to manor and parish of Potterspury. Lordship of Cosgrove contains in all about 1760a., of which 1100a. belong to John Christopher Mansel esq. , lord of manor; about 235a. to rector in right of his church; about 220a. to Duke of Grafton; and nearly 100a. to rector at Furtho. [This must be the acreage said under Furtho to be wrongly assigned to Cosgrove]

Baker, ii. 156 Local Govt 1834

Lordship contains about 630a., of which about 300 were inclosed under Cosgrove Act in 7 Geo. III (1776) by name of 'Furtho tithing' and have by mistake been incldued in the contents of the parish.

Principal props. are Arnold Charity (about 285a.) and rector, who has about 100a. in right of his church. Bounded north by Potterspury and Yardley Gobion; east and south by Cosgrove; and west by Watling St, which divides it from Passenham.

Soil principally a cold white clay. More than half lordship is permanent pasture.

Baker, ii. 158 Local Govt 1834

A court leet and court baron are held occasionally for this manor.

As a member of the honor of Berkhampstead Furtho does suit to the court of Blakesley; and as a member of the honor of Grafton, to the court at Potterspury.

There is no village, the manor house, now occupied with the farm, being the only house in the parish, except two in Old Stratford.

Village is supposed to have been depopulated partly the inclosure by Edward Furtho esq. in the time of James I, and partly by the adoption of a new line for the road for Northampton to London, which previously passed through it.

By 1801 census F. contained two houses and 9 inhabs; 1811 3 houses and 16; 1821 2 and 12; 1831 3 houses and 16 inhabs.

There are no returns for land tax and property tax, and they are probably included under Cosgrove.

Poor rates for year ending Easter 1832 raised £14 8s 3.5d. at 6d in £.

NRO, F.XII. 80 Local Govt 1834

22 Oct. 1834. Court leet and baron. Jury 12, also four ‘free suitors’ present, and Robert Pittam, bailiff, Robert Pittam, constable, Arthur Capes, thirdborough. List of freehold sales etc; no leet business.

Separate list of 28 tenants owing chief rent, which are mostly marked ‘paid’ but no amounts. And a list in same form as 1818 showing 27 holdings, with usual details, and amount owing for 16 years (i.e. since 1818).

NRO, Map 3322 (F.XII.83) General Topic 1835

Plan of Furtho Manor Farm by Walter Ray, 1835. Transcribe detailed schedule in bottom left hand corner.
1 House, out offices, agric. buildings, yards, gardens etc. 1.3.24.

1a Spinney. 0.1.0.

2 Garden, ozier bed, moat, drift way and small plantation. 1.3.3.

3 Home ground (incl. road 0.0.32). Pasture. 11.1.8.

4 Yard with cattle shed therein. 0.0.23.

5 Church Close. Pasture. 2.2.8.

6 Church Meadow (incl. double hedgerow 0.0.16). Pasture. 7.3.29.

7 Clay Close (incl. pasture 1.2.28). Arable. 11.0.19.

8 Hare Stocking Spinney. Wood. 2.0.2.

9 Little Spinney Close. Pasture. 10.0.18.

10 Great Spinney Close (incl. pasture 1.0.24). Arable. 18.3.32.

11 Tree Close. Pasture. 8.1.26.

12 The Six Acres (incl. pasture 1.1.5). Pasture 4.3.24. Arable 6.0.19.

13 Hill Close (incl. pasture 2.0.0). Arable 11.1.8.

14 Three Cornered Piece (incl. pasture 3.0.25). Arable.

15.3.25. 15 Gravel Pit Close (incl. pasture 0.1.8 and private road 0.0.37). Arable 7.2.7.

16 Road taken from Gravel Pit Close and Hillyers Ground. 0.2.0.

17 Hillyers Ground (incl. pasture 1.3.2 and private road 0.3.8). Arable. 12.2.24.

18 Drift way. 0.0.32.

19 Great Ewe Meadow. Pasture. 7.3.19.

20 Little Ewe Meadow. Pasture. 4.1.12

21 Lower Ewe Meadow. Pasture. 18.3.32.

22 Upper Ewe Pasture. Pasture. 16.0.12.

23 Yard with cattle shed therein. 0.0.10.

24 Lower Ten Acres. Pasture. 16.3.32.

25 Yard with cattle shed therein. 0.0.11.

26 Upper Ten Acres. Pasture. 8.2.39.

27 Ram Meadow (inc. road 0.1.8). Pasture 8.1.19.

28 Calves Close (excl. 0.0.21 bel. Duke of Grafton and road through 0.0.27). Pasture. 6.3.22.

29 The Strip. Arable. 2.0.13.

30 Lower Strip. Arable 0.2.16.

31 Foddering Close (incl. double hedge 0.0.24). Pasture 8.2.8.

32 Hartleys Meadow (incl. double hedge 0.0.22). Pasture 7.2.2.

33 Vausers Spinney. 0.0.10.

34 Bird Close (in Cosgrove pa .). Pasture 4.1.16. [This appears to be an error for Potterspury, unless it was in detached portion of C., but is on wrong side of Watling Street to be in Kenson Field)

35 Bywards Watering Place. Pasture 2.2.19.

36 Lower Vausers (incl. brook and double hedge 0.1.11). Pasture 10.2.29.

37 Upper Vausers. Pasture 14.2.32.

38 Crow Grove. Wood. 1.3.24.

39 Crow Grove Pasture (incl. double hedge 0.0.22). Pasture 11.1.25.

40 Cabin Meadow. Pasture. 6.2.32.

41 Ash Spinney. Spinney. 2.0.13.

Total Acreage = 292.1.26

NRO, F.XIII.58 Arnold Charity 1838

10 July 1838. Clerk to inspect final decree to see what it says about correct mode of applying surplus.

3 Aug. 1838. Clerk explains 1694 and 1697 decrees. Noted that 1697 decree orders that any surplus should not go to two ministers' stipends but ought to be applied to poor and to apprentices, and to poor scholars of Merton.

Clerk ordered to hold a court leet and baron at Furtho in October next.

8 Oct. Trustees consider Mr Pittam's proposals for new buildings, which amount to building a new piggery on a more expensive plan than hitherto; resolve that at present low rent it would be unreasonable to expect trustees to make such expenditure, even if they had funds, especially of i sent £2080 on premises in 1821, besides other expenditure, with no increase in rent. Will erect gates as asked but want to see plans and spec. of piggery by 24 Oct. and also estimate of cost of putting present Piggery into repair.

NRO, F. XIII. 58 Local Govt 1838

3 Aug. 1838. Arnold Charity trustees mins.

Clerk ordered to hold a court leet and baron at Furtho on October next.

NRO, F.XII.81 Local Govt 1838

24 Oct. 1838. Court roll. Only five suitors attended: note that there not being sufficient attendance of suitors no jury sworn. Charles Britten, steward. No baron or leet business minited.

Usual list of chief rents, this time with annual sums totalled (£1.11s 4.5d), and amount owing for four years (£6 5s 6d).

This is the last court roll in this sequence and apparently in the entire collection. Possibly abandoned holding courts because this one was inquorate.

NRO, ZA 370 Local Govt 1838

Third court in book is VFP, Leet and Baron of J.C. Mansell held for manor of Cosgrove 21 May 1838 by Charles Markham, steward.

Jury of 12.

Appointment of Robert Pittam as constable for Furtho within this manor, Joseph Forster as constable for manor of Cosgrove, Daniel Warren as thirdborough for Cosgrove, John Norton Wilford as thirdborough for that part of the manor of Cosgrove known as Old Stratford, Robert Pearson as hayward for manor of Cosgrove and Furtho.

This is first time Old Stratford has had its own thirdborough.

Grand Junction Canal Co. presented for encroachment on lord's waste in village of Cosgrove, where they have built a house; allowed subject to payment of quit rent. Three private encroachments also presented. Then a perambulation (see under Gen.Top.) No other business. No quit rents.

NRO, F.XII. 84 Manor 1838

Plans, specifications etc of row of five piggeries built by Thomas Pittam at Furtho Farm Oct. 1838. 48 ft long divided into five sties.

NRO, F.XIII.58 Arnold Charity 1839

14 Jan. 1839. Trustees agree to find materials for repairing piggery, incl. trees from estate.

Offer of rector of Cosgrove to accept 15s 6d rent charge on charity estate in lieu of modus of 12s 6d when tithes are commuted in his parish is accepted.

Plots marked 29 and 30 on plan of estate to be planted.

8 April. Sale of timber has 29 and 30 have been planted timber money to be used for in Consols. raised £339 17s 6d net. Plots with oak and larch. Some of piggeries, rest to be invested

14 Oct. £273 3s 6d out of timber money available for investment.

Trustees have inspected new planted plots and dissatisfied to find nearly all the trees are larch and many are dead. Ash and oak scarcely perceptible. Dead larches to be replaced with oaks distributed through the plantation.

NRO, F.XII.98 Manor 1839

Sale of timber on Furtho Manor estate, 28 Feb. 1839.
Printed cat., accounts etc. Gross receipts £357 4s, net £339 17s 6d.

NRO, F.XII. 101 Manor 1842

Insurance policy on Manor Farm: farmhouse, dairy, granary, stables, barn and cowhouses, all adjoining, in ten. R. Pittam, stone and slated, insured for £500. On wood barn, stone and slated, £20. Pigsties, stone and slated, £50. Hovel, stone and slated, £100. Barn, cart stable, horse hovel, cart hovel, thatched, £270. Three cowhouses in the fields, timber and thatched, £60. Total £1000

NRO, F.XIII. 58 Arnold Charity General Topic 1843

9 Jan. 1843. Farm to be insured at the Globe for £1000

27 Aug, 1844. Trustees meeting at Furtho inspected road from Cosgrove to Potterspury over which charity estate has a right of carriage road. Agree with tenant it is out of repair; Pittam to apply to magistrates requiring Mrs Maunsell to repair same.

NRO, F.XII.107 Church 1848

19 Feb. 1858 Letter from archdeacon of N’ton to clerk, asking trust for help with cost of repairs, pews, floors and roof, with the bell, are in a very bad state, but with a little expense might be made one of the nicest little churches in archdeaconry.

22 Feb. Reply, saying trustees will be sympathetic but not clear whether their trust allows them to use money for this purpose.

10 July Exchange with archdeacon reported in which he accepts that trustees cannot apply funds of charity to church repairs.

NRO, ZA 370 Local Govt 1848

Last court in book held 5 May 1848. Jury of 12.

Appointment of Robert Pittam as constable for Furtho within this manor, Joseph Forster as constable for the manor of Cosgrove, appointment of thirdborough for Cosgrove is unnecessary, Matthew Willison as thirdborough for that part of the manor of Cosgrove which is known as Old Stratford, Thomas Allbright as hayward for manor of Cosgrove and Furtho.

Jury present great arrears in payment of quit rents and that same should be accounted for by persons liable to pay to the bailiff of lord (but no list).

Then a perambulation, which appears to be identical to 1838 except some of householders' names have changed. Not worth noting again.

NRO, F.XIII.58 Arnold Charity 1849

Special meeting, 14 March 1849, to meet personal rep. of late tenant, Robert Pittam decd, who stated that he would be willing to give up farm at Mich. next or hold it to LD 1850. Resolved to continue tenancy until dissolved by usual notice to quit from one party to the other.

9 April. Admor of Pittam wishes to quit at 25 March 1850.

13 July. Clerk to arrange for survey of property and report on rent that should be asked. Clerk to issue notice to quit, since notice from admor may not be valid: a will has since been found.

3 Sept. Surveyor's report approved. Several applications for farm. Two candidates to be offered it in turn.

8 Oct. William Warr to be granted lease of farm. Estimate to be obtained as to cost of putting farm house into tenantable repair and other improvements suggested by tenant.

9 Oct. Site meeting with builder. Asked for detailed estimate and report on what timber may be cut down without loss.

19 Nov. Builder quotes £1106 4s 2d. Two trustees to visit with builder to see if cannot be put into order at much less expense. Also to give orders for felling timber.

NRO, F.XII.88 Manor 1849

Papers re Pittam giving up of farm.

Includes draft notice to John Pittam and Henry Pittam exors of Robert Pittam late of Furtho, farmer and grazier, dec’d 1849 (not fully dated).) With another copy, served 12 Sept. 1849

Various letters on behalf of applicats for the tenancy, incl. Wm Warr (who gets tenancy), said to possess property to the extent of £2000 and upwards.

NRO, F.XII.87 Manor 1849

Valuation of Furtho manor farm by Thomas Bloodworth, Kimbolton, 23-30 Aug. 1849. Rent of £460 fixed upon calculation that five numbered parcels should be broken up, for which privilege I have added £20 a year to what I think, with wheat under 6s a bushel, the rent ought to be, supposing the farm to remain in its present state.

Whellan’s Dir. (1849), 575-6 General Topic 1849

Small parish containing only one farmhouse (Manor House) and a small portion of Old Stratford hamlet. Contains 480a. Soil principally a cold white clay. More than half lordship is in perm. pasture. Principal landowners are trustees of Arnold Charity and rector.

After conventional account of manor note that Furtho is a member of honor of Berkhamstead and Grafton.

Living is a rectory, valued at about £150. Rectory consists of 96.0.29 land allotted by Cosgrove incl. cmmrs, and modus of £20 is 6d for Arnold Estate.

Manor House is occ. by family of late Robert Pittam.

NRO, F.XIII.212 Arnold Charity General Topic 1849

Folded inside draft lease of 1850 to William Warr:
Valuation of Manor Farm, Furtho, in occ. exors late Robert Pittam. By Wm. Bloodworth, Kimbolton, 23 Aug. 1849
Schedule of 41 parcels:

Total acreage
Quantity excl. plantations in hand 287.2.24
Annual value 292.1.26 £460

Report: Whole of farm is in a very creditable state of cultivation but would be greatly improved by a more perfect system of drainage, particularly the arable part of the farm, which is a stiff tenacious clay capable of considerable improvement by proper tile draining. Considering great proportion of grass land (some of which at present grows an inferior kind of herbage) I should recommend some of it to be converted into arable, which would no doubt be an advantage to the occupier, and under proper restrictions be an improvement to the farm. Recommend 9, 36 and 37 be broken up, total 35.1.39. Would also be an advantage to stub up two spinnies (8 and 38) and throw them into adjoining closes.

Buildings: some improvements might be made, particularly as regards the carthorse stable and the adjoining barn and yard. A new sheep hovel or calves pen appears quite necessary and a better situation might be found for it. Timber: great many of the oak trees are decaying and could not be cut down at a more suitable time than when repairs are wanted, besides which several of them, where they now stand, are a hindrance to good cultivation and should be taken down.

Desirable to let farm on lease for 8 years and arable land managed under a four course system. Pencil note beneath appears to suggest the four courses: 1 Fallow - turnips; 2 Barley, 3 Seeds, 4 wheat.        

NRO, F.XIII.212 Arnold Charity 1850

10 May 1850. Draft lease (blue paper) from trustees to William Warr of Furtho, grazier, of farmhouse and 289a. 2r. 37p. late in occ. Robert Pittam and now of Wm Warr. Eight years at £460 p.a. :

Enclosing valuation 1 Sept. 1857 of Furtho estate in occ. William Warr, valuation 23 Aug. 1849 by Thomas Bloodworth, and plan of Furtho Manor Farm (un dated) on tracing paper. Plan is on brown tracing paper, torn and brittle. Not exained. Only a tracing; another copy probably available elsewhere. Map 3322

Note the two valuations on separate slips under their dates.

Also a want of accommodation for stock in yards, would recommend roof on present dead hovel.

Assuming present tenant continues, suggest new lease from LD 1857 at £495, tenant to pay rates and taxes as at present.

Suggest changes to covenants: Landlord to find pipes and tenant labour to drain fields, pipes to be laid not less than 36on. Below surface. Mowing clause should bind tenant to mow not more than one third of grass in any one year, and entirely prohibited from mowing pasture round house.

Signed William Beam, Findon Hill, 1 Sept. 1857.

NRO, F.XII.103 Church Tithe 1849-51

Papers re tithe commutation and effect on charity estate. Note 4 April 1849 that from 1774 to 1827 tithe paid by tenant, from 1827 to present paid by trustees.

4 June 1849. Minute of meeting called by tithe commissioner at Reindeer Inn, Potterspury, with notes of glebe terriers. Terrier dated 29 March 1686: one dwelling house, one barn, one stable and two gardens which join on king's highway west (and other lands on other sides). Churchyard encompassed about by lands of the manor. Land in Moore Fields, in Midle Fields, Quarry Field, Meadows and Leys. No change in terriers of 1730 and 1749. In 1771 first mention of 96a. land in 6 closes in Furtho, Cosgrove and East Fury. No change in 1777, 1792 and 1820.

31 Aug. 1849. Letter clerk re attempts to trace origin of £20 7s 6d paid to incumbent by trustees in lieu of tithe on Manor Farm.

Draft of award 21 Oct. 1850. Cites Cosgrove incl. award of 7 Geo. III, by which all lands of Furtho except those mentioned next were exonerated from tithe. The lands in question are 292.1.26 belonging to trustees, which are titheable but covered by an ancient customary payment of £31 to the rector. Therefore award this payment annually to the rector.

24 Sept. 1851. Letter to clerk saying that Tithe Cmmn has awarded £31 instead of traditional £21 7s 6d. The difference is in arrears to extent of £19 5s. You or I must apply to Warr, the tenant, for this money.

NR31O, T2: Furtho Tithe Award, 21 Oct. 1850 General Topic

Recites Act 7 Geo. III for enclosing and dividing common and open fields of township and liberties of Cosgrove, under which all the lands of the parish of Furtho except those hereinafter mentioned were freed of all manner of tithes.

Which lands in the parish of Furtho amount to 292.1.26 belonging to the trustees of Arnold's Charity are subject to all manner of tithes but are covered from payment in kind by a composition of £31 p.a. payable to the rector of Furtho. And find that rector is entitled to all manner of tithes payable on this land. There for award £31 rent-charge to rector chargeable on these lands.

Schedule follows in which trustees appear as owners and William Warr as occupier. 40 parcels of land totalling 288.0.10 (even though acreage is given as 292.1.26 in award).

Map is attached to schedule and appears to be simply tracing of 1835 survey; schedule field names appear to be identical. No changes in layout at farmstead. Private road, bridle roads and footpaths as shown on 1835. The 'freeboard' running north from farmstead to A508 is called a bridle way on map. At bottom right hand corner of map is note: 'Copied from a Plan belonging to the Trustees of Arnold's Charity by Messrs Haywards, Surveyors, Northampton'. Signed as examined 29 May 1851.

PRO, HO 129/166/17 Church 1851

Furtho parish church. Total endowment £240, details unknown. No pew rents, fees or Easter offerings. 130 free sittings, 20 other places. 90 at evg service 30.3.51. Average: 50 pm. No Sunday School. The congregation varies according as Potterspury church is open or closed, at this time 150 is very common in summer afternoons when Potterspury is closed cannot correctly be ascertained as the rector is absent (semi-legible note). Sgd: 30.3.51: Theodrore C.B. Steeles, curate of Furtho, Potterspury Vicarage.

Kelly’s Dir. (1854), 430 General Topic 1854

Furtho consists of one farmhouse and a few cottages. Pop. In 1851 was 15. Living is rectory, value £141 p.a. William Warr, farmer

NRO, F.XII.19 Arnold Charity 1855

Charity Cmmn 14 Feb. 1855 to trustees. various Queries on accounts. Notes that 1825 report suggests getting counsel's opinion re giving extra money to Potterspury and Stony Stratford ministers. Was this ever done? We consider that balance in hand is far too large; indeed can see no reason to keep any balance in hand since income well covers expenses. Should divide unappropriated balance between parishes in proportion, and total balance invested in name of trustees. From other comments clear that some money was invested in gilts by this date.

NRO, F.XIII.212 Arnold Charity 1857

Folded inside draft lease to Wm Warr of 1850 is a survey valuation of estate, now in occ. Wm Warr, 1 Sept-1857.

Farm consists of 190.1.9 grass land, wood etc, 99.1.28 arable, makes 289.2.37, as schedule in lease. Error in Great Spinney Close, which is 19.0.22 in two divisions, not 18.3.22 as in lease. Same error in Bloodworth's schedule no. 10. This makes a difference of 1r. in total acreage of farm and acreage of grassland.

Meadow and pasture has been well and fairly managed, and a fair proportion of same mown each year. Arable has not been farmed in the last year in accordance with covenant in lease, viz. on four-course system. The eight arable fields should be 25a. wheat, 25a. barley, 25a. clover or beans, 25a. fallow or turnips (99.1.28 total arable). 1857 harvest was in fact: 25a. wheat, 33a. barley, 22a. barley and clover, 18a. fallow and turnip. This is excess of white straw cropping of about 9a. This might have occurred within covenants and be explained by varying size of fields, but this is not the case because tenant sowed one field barley after wheat, which should have been fallowed. Arable should divide into 10 units, with 5 used for white straw cropping and 5 for beans, clover or fallow. In fact 6 for white straw crops and 4 for pulse and fallow.

General state of arable is in very fair condition. Large proportion has been drained during term of late lease, trustees finding pipes and tenant doing labour.

Buildings divide into two categories: house and considerable part of home buildings are stone and slate in fair conditon but were badly erected, roof timbers being too weak, which have given way. At the top of yard in an old barn and cart horse stable in very unsafe condition too bad to be repaired. Waggon and cart sheds also very. low and inconvenient, recommend rebuilding on same site, with stone and slate, a new stable with small barn adjoining, also a shelter hovel on south side of yard and waggon hovel on north side opening into home close.

NRO, F.XIII.58 Arnold Charity 1858

19 Jan. 1858. Warr attended and offered to take new lease at £480 plus £5 per cent on outlay on alterations and improvements as per surveyor's recent suggestion (£325). Warr's offer accepted. Builder to be instructed to do work.

12 July. £350 Consols to be sold to pay for repairs to farm building and additional buildings there. For purpose of determining rent outlay on repairs to be reckoned as £400 and so £20 added to rent making £500 in all; this figure to be inserted in new lease. In addition to works already agreed a new well to be sunk and pump installed, also the yard to be pitched and buildings spouted, at extra cost of £30 12s 6d.

NRO, F.XIII.213 Arnold Charity 1858

12 July 1858. Draft (blue paper) lease from trustees to William Warr of Furtho, farmer and grazier, with pencil alterations making tenant John Bird. Farmhouse ansd 289.2.37 in Furtho and Cosgrove, for 8 years at £500 p.a. Note alterations under new slip dated 1867.

Covenants in original text follow Bean’s recommendations of 1857 report re four course system, draining etc.

Melville’s Dir. (1861), 240 General Topic 1861

Pop. 15 in 1851. Part of hamlet of Old Stratford in pa. William Warr, farmer.

NRO FS27.7  Manor 1866

Quit rents

20 July 1866. Charles Britten to J C Mansel asking for balance of two quit rents due between Cosgrove and Furtho manors to be settles. Last balance was struck in 1850, so there is 16 years due, balance of £6 8s due to Furtho Charity. Please remit.

NRO, F.XIII.234 Arnold Charity 1866

9 Nov. 1866. Draft formal notice on blue law paper to Reps, of late Wm War re repairs. Addressed to Mrs M.A. Warr. Lengthy list of repairs required to house, most if not all the outbuildings, yard, and fields: arable land not in good condition, hedges and fences have not been properly cut, drains and watercourses not kept open. Underdraining should have been at 36 in. deep but is considerably less. Water prevented from running away for want of the dykes being cleaned.

XIII.235 is the fair copy of 234.

XIII.237 is Mrs Warr’s solicitor's letter formally accepting service of repairs notice, 11 Nov. 1866.

XIII.236. 14 Dec. 1866. Mrs Warr's solr to clerk. Am glad that this matter is narrowing itself to small compass and can be resolved in the coming season. Generally conciliatory tone.

NRO, F.XIII.73 Arnold Charity 1866

18 July 1866. R.G. Douglas Pennant, Mortimer House, Halkin Street, to clerk. Happy to recommend Bird as tenant. His father farms at Wicken under Sir Charles Mordaunt, where I reside part of the year. One of his sons is a tenant of mine near Brackley.

16 June 1866. Similar from rector of Wicken. John Bird now a farmer at Stoke Goldington under Lord Carr heard of Warr's death. Bird's father is one of my wardens; both sound churchmen; Bird is a Sunday school teacher, as is his wife. Both good old fashioned sort; she does not play on piano and he does not drink sherry. His father is rich and he has capital.

21 July 1866. Similar from rector of Stoke Goldington.

NRO, F.XII.91 Manor 1868

Lease of farm, 13 Jan. 1868. Trustees to John Bird of Furtho, farmer and grazier. Late in occ. Wm Warr and now John Bird. 8 years from 25 March 1867. Rent £566 p.a. Similar penalties and covernants to 1858.

Schedule come to 292.1.26, of which about 129a. is scheduled as arable, incl. all those called ‘arable and pasture’ in 1858 and thos pencilled ‘arable’ on erlier leases.

Kelly’s Dir. (1869), 49 General Topic 1869

Rectory of yearly value of £141. Parish clerk named as William Robinson. John Bird, farmer, the only named resident.

NRO. F.XIII.58 Arnold Charity 1870

10 Jan. 1870. Clerk to write to Bird apprising him of trustees' desire to erect two cottages with suitable  inclosure of ground for cottage gardens and desiring him to point out to trustees the most suitable site for such cottages.

11 April 1870. Letter from Ch.Cmmrs read authorising a contribution towards the repair of Furtho church.

10 Oct. 1870. Payment of £32 16s towards Furtho church repairs and restoration authorised.

11 Nov. 1870. Clerk to write to Ch.Cmmrs asking for sanction to erect two cottages on estate, and to write to Bird authorising him to build an engine-house, the bill for the same not to be presented until April 1871 meeting.

NRO, F,XIII.245 Arnold Charity 1871-2

Papers re Towcester & Hitchin Railway. Includes circular from solicitors for bill dated 7 Dec. 1871 re intended application to Parliament and asking for assent or dissent. Inside is schedule filled in showing Railway No 1 going through parcels 4, 5, 13 and 14, owned by trustees, occ. John Bird. No 13 incl. footpath and occupation road owned jointly by trustees and Towcester District Highway Board. Parcels 1, 2, 3 and 15 affected by works, of which 1 and 15 are also joint with highway board (public footpaths in both), other two just charity, all occ. John Bird.

23 Dec. 1871. Individual letter to clerk offering to meet trustees to discuss objections.

6 Jan. 1872. J. & S. Burke, engineers, Kineton, Warwick, to clerk, enclosing tracing of map showing route.

Brown tracing paper map of route in Furtho. Only a straight line through fields: easier to look at QS copy.

Whellan’s Dir. (1875). 566-7 General Topic 1874

Contains only one farmhouse (the manor house) and a small portion of hamlet of Old Stratford. Soil a cold white clay, more than half lordship in permanent pasture.

Income of charity given as £566 rent and £2300 in Consols, producing £62 11s 3d.

Whellan’s Dir. (1874). 567 Church 1874

Furtho church rebuilt 1620 by Furtho family: nave, cancel, tower cont. one bell. Restored throughout 1870, with Arnold Trustees being principal contributors. Reseated with open deal sittings, and a handsome pulpit of bathstone erected, together with a lectern and reading desk. Harmonium placed in chancel at expense of John Bird, under whose auspices restoration was carried out.

There is a cinquefoil headed piscina, mutilated, in chancel, on north side of which is an arch, uner which lies a marble tomb, on which were effigies of a man and his two wives, with a tablet at their feet, and a shield of arms at each corner, but these are now defaced. Supposed to be mon. of Anthony Furtho, who was twice married, and died 1 Eliz.

Living a rectory now worth about £300. John William Mason is incumbent, Revd Robert Emaus Crawley, vicar of Potterspury, curate in charge. Rectory consists of 96.0.29 of land allotted by incl. cmmrs. and modus of £20 7s 6d for Arnold estate.

Manor House is occupied by John Bird, farmer and churchwarden.

NRO, F.XIII.73  General Topic 1875

Large bundle of in-letters to Arnold Charity clerk (not sub-numbered) includes one from vicar of Potterspury, J. W. Mason, at Potterspury Vicarage, 23 Oct. 1875.

There is a plot going on to saddle Furtho with part of Old Stratford. The last is partly in pa. Passenham, partly in Cosgrove. I have no interest in OS, except as regards a certain kitchen in one of the houses there, which I have been told belongs to me. The incumbent of Passenham told me I had 33 parishioners there, but as I told him, I have none.

Old Stratford is a sadly neglected place, without church, or schools, within any reasonable distance, and the incumbents and others of those parishes would try and transfer it to me if they could. There have been tricks and schemings going on for a long period of time with that view. Mr Bird had enquiries made lately about the population, but he could not find the paper. I understood him to say it came from Board of Trade. Trustees should be told.

14 Jan. 1876. John Wm Mason, vicar of Potterspury, writing as rector of Furtho to clerk. Several incorrect reports I find have been in circulation locally about number of my parishioners. Revd Mr Capel, rector of Passenham, with whom I had some conversation last October, says I have 33 parishioners in hamlet of Old Stratford, whereas fact is I have not one. Mr Chinall, registrar, Stony Stratford, in his printed circular which gives population of different parishes, sets Furtho down as 46. Revd Mr James of Grafton, in his return from a ruridecanal conference recently held at Wicken, told one of Arnold trustees I had 50.

Is it not time this should be looked into and corrected. I have been incumbent at Furtho since 1843 and I am not aware that there are any houses belonging to my parish apart from farmhouse occ. by Mr Bird, and three cottages, one called Notwood on the left hand as one goes from Pury to Stony, a 2nd belonging to my homestead (Farm), and a 3rd on the left as one goes from Stony to Cosgrove. Population of my parish of Furtho depends on number in those four houses and cannot be numbers quoted. As this issue has assumed such large proportions, would it not be as well to communicate with authorities in London as well as Stony, and get it set right before doing mischief.

NRO, F.XII.48, f. 160 Manor 1876-81

Repair account brought forward from f. 111. In 1877 Bird paid £95 to reimburse him for repairs authorised by trustees; in 1878 £25 for new gates and drain pipes; in 1879 £11 for drain pipes and gateway pipes. 1880 £3 (part of it to T. Foxley). In 1881 Bird paid £100 on account of £120 for making road across Charity Farm.

In 1879 15 gns. paid to Messrs Miles & Rowland of Leicester for inspection and report on state of Charity Farm at expiration of the tenant's lease in 1875.

NRO, F.XIII.73 Church 1876-7

7 Oct. 1876. Vicar of Potterspury (as rector of Furtho) to clerk. If the rector wishes to build a house of residence, would trustees be disposed to allot a portion of land in lieu of tithe rent charge. Mr Bird will show the spot he thought would be suitable, also for labourers' cottages as well.

21 Dec. 1876. Same to same re same. Would trustees have any objection to give me some land, balance in money, in lieu of tithe rent charge. Site near the gate leading to Cosgrove. Would need to be satisfied about water supply first.

10 Jan. 1877. Same. Propose that trustees give me site, say 4a., and money, towards a rectory house in lieu of tithe rent charge.

13 March 1877. Rector asks for reply.

15 March. Rent charge of £31 10s, now £34, is worth £940 at 30 years' purchase. If you sell 4a. at £65 per acre that leaves balance of £700 due to me. But you can't build a house for £700 and Jesus won't help. Would it not suit trustees to buy advowson and build rector a proper house, taking rent charge towards it and giving rest. Dr Arnold did nothing for Furtho, but was taken ill before he could carry out his intention. Proposed site of rectory is too lonely, hardly safe to live there, unless trustees built a few cottages as well. With a sketch showing site fox rectory to immediate east of church on north side of track leading to Cosgrove (called Cosgrove Way).

With a PS saying Kendal is dead. I rather have an idea that his estate (38a.) could be bought of the niece. Believe the trustees once thought of doing this.

30 March 1877. Rector to clerk. What is trustees' answer. Furtho church all but inaccessible in winter and I have got bad colds going there. Should trustees like to buy advowson, Jesus would be willing to sell: have a letter from principal of my college to this effect.

Kelly’s Dir. (1877), 300 Church 1877

Church appears to have been built in 1620, but the chancel is older; it was thoroughly restored in 1870 by the rector and the trustees of Arnold’s charity; the churchyard has also been planted with choice shrubs and trees by the rector.

Living is a rectory, value £141.

Kelly’s Dir. (1877), 300 General Topic 1877

Chief crops are wheat, barley, oats, beans etc. Pop. In 1871 was 46, but this was purposely raised for one night only: the real population is about 20.

John Bird, farmer, the only named resident.

NRO, F.XIII. 286-287 (Maps 4506 – 4507) General Topic c. 1880

Two sheets of drawings (4506 is a ground floor plan, 4507 is front elevation with bedroom and cellar plan) uniform with drawings of proposed new farmhouse by Matthew Holding. These must be survey drawings by Holding of old house. 1:96th scale. Undated.

Ground plan shows double-fronted house with off-centre doorway, sitting room and parlour to either side, kitchen to rear centre. Behind further set of service rooms: beer cellar, brew house and back kitchen. To left of house a dairy, churn room and 'horse gear to work churn' (i.e. horse-gin). Gateway to left of horse-gin room, then sketch of nearest farm buildings: pigs and cows.

Basement shows a cellar with two sets of stairs down.

Bedroom plan shows four bedrooms along front of house, small fifth bedroom at end of passage which runs along length of back of house, and two servants' bedrooms in back wing to left of main range. Elevation shows a two storeyed house, stone walls under slate roof, two bay windows, off-centre doorway, chimney stacks and each end and in the middle to heat kitchen (i.e. centre room downstairs) and corresponding bedroom.

NRO, F.XIII.73 Church 1881

9 April 1881. Revd J. Chalmers, Furtho House, Stony Stratford, [Old Stratford] rector of Furtho to clerk. Will trustees help to improve or amend cart track which is only way up to Furtho church. Gravel can easily be got from rectory pit. At present journey is attended not only with much discomfort but with positive danger.

PRO, OS 29/185 General Topic 1882

Journal of inspection for south Northants. Includes all the Cleley parishes. Space for comments on boundaries of each parish, preceded by a 1in. map showing boundaries.

The only comment re a Cleley pa. is a letter from John Simpson, Potterspury, to OS 2 Dec. 1882: you are correct, boundary between Passenham and detached portion of Potterspury at Old Stratford passes down centre of turnpike road.

Cuttings pasted at back show that maps was placed on deposit locally Sept. 1882.

Map shows two detached portions of Potterspury on either side of Watling Street in Old Stratford, and one detached portion of Furtho in Old Stratford. Also shows detached portion of Cosgrove W of Watling Street, and areas common to Potterspury and Yardley.

PRO, OS 27/3730 General Topic 1882

Boundary sketch map 1882, showing southern portion of Cleley with detached portions of parishes, annotated to show how these were extinguished.

The detached portion of Cosgrove W of Watling Street to be amalgamated with Potterspury by LGBO 14,671 on 20.12.82 on 24 March 1883.

Detached Potterspury in Old Stratford next to Black Horse Inn to be amalgamated with Passenham under PLA 1882 on 25 March 1883.

Detached Potterspury in Old Stratford at NE corner of crossroads to be amalgamated with Cosgrove under PLA 1882 on 25 March 1883.

Detached Furtho in Old Stratford (opposite Trinity School) to be amalgamated with Cosgrove under LGBO 14,671 as above.

NRO, YZ 4920 General topic 1882

Photostat of Divided Parishes Order, 20 Dec. 1862. (LOB Order No 14,671). Schedule of changes effected includes transfer of detached portion of Alderton to Grafton Regis (as noted); transfer of detached portions of Calverton (Stratford Bridge Meadows (12.0.12) and Mill Meadows (13.2.4)) to Stony Stratford St Giles or West-side, which parish both adjoin.

From Cosgrove all that isolated and detached part containing 280a. adjoining Potterspury, to Potterspury.

From Furtho all that isolated and detached part cont. 1.3.5 adjoining parish of Cosgrove to Cosgrove. (This is presumably the portion of Old Stratford in Furtho.)

NRO, F.XIII. 288-290 (Maps 4508 – 4510) General Topic c. 1884

Three sheets of 1/96th scale drawings signed Matthew Holding ARIBA, 1 Market Sq., N'ton, undated but showing proposed new farmhouse at Furtho.

Ground plans shows house with large entrance hall, drawing room at one end, dining room in middle, kitchen at other end, along back; with master's room (i.e. office) and larder at front. To left of kitchen new range of service rooms: dairy and churn room at front, new yard in middle and scullery, cellar, coals, ashes at back of yard. New stables at front on left beyond dairy. A side door to house to left to main front door. Main house has stone i walling with brick quoins and dressings; outbuildings in brick.

First floor plan shows four bedrooms and store room, with roof plan of outbuildings to left, all of them single storey. Second floor plan shows three more bedroom and store room.

Only sheet of elevations is one no'd 3, which is back of house, showing irregular arrangement of house itself and range of single storey outbuildings (to right hand, since this is back of house). No drawing of front elevation.

NRO, F.XIII. 291 – 294 (Maps 4511 – 4514) General Topic c. 1884

Set of four 1/96th drawings, not signed or dated by, clearly a reworking by Holding of his proposed new farmhouse.

Ground plan shows a more compact house, with doorway towards left hand side, three (unnamed) main reception rooms downstairs, small study by entrance hall, kitchen at back and what looks like larder or store on other side of hall from study. No farm buildings shown. Second front door at right hand end of building, opening into passage running down spine of house.

First floor shows three largish bedrooms and fourth room where there are pencillings showing bath and we but these not inked in. Kitchen, entrance hall and larder are a single-storey range: no bedroom over. Attic plan shows three large bedrooms.

Third sheet shows sections on both axes and south elevation (i.e. the back), showing single storey kitchen. Bedroom windows on first and second floor contained in large two-storey dormers; very deep roof to main block.

Fourth sheet shows two end elevations and north (i.e. front). Only main block of building inked in on these: the two doorways in pencil only as though final positions not settled. All elevations show rubble walling with brick quoins to ground floor, with upper floors rendered. Very tall chimney stacks and big sweeping roofs.

Kelly’s Dir. (1885). 343 Church 1885

Chancel now said to have been restored in 1870 at cost of £100, defrayed by Arnold Trustees.

Living is a rectory, tithe rent charge £31, gross yearly value £20, incl. 99a. glebe.

Living held since 1880 by Revd. John Chalmers, who resides at Old Stratford.

NRO, F.XIII.75 Arnold Charity 1887-1924

Bound up set of schemes of 1887, 1893, 1900, 1906, 1909, 1915, 1924, as seen in other copies.

NRO, F.XII.23 Church Tithes 1890

Bundle of correspondence received by clerk to trustees, 1887.90, mostly routine or re cottages built at this time, but adding nothing to what is in minute book for same period. But does include angry exchange between outgoing and incoming incumbents of Furtho (Dr J. Payne the new incumbent, address Furthoe House, Stony Stratford; J. Chalmers, 22 Cambridge Gardens, Hastings, outgoing) re apportioning the tithes. Clerk has pencilled note: see apportionment act 1870 on one letter.

NRO, F.XII.22. Church 1891

In bundle of general in letters to clerk, 1891-1906, letter from Payne, rector, at Furthoe House, Old Stratford.  5 Jan. 1891, asking for financial help with running Church. Understand previous incumbent paid everything himself, but not everyone can afford to do this. Have an offertory at every service, but half those there are my own family. Mrs Bird has kindly agreed to continue paying for church cleaning herself

Kelly’s Dir. (1903), 87 General Topic 1903

Pop. In 1901 was 15.
John Bird, famer, the only resident listed.

NRO, F.XII.22 Manor 1904

9 Jan. 1904. Clerk to H. Grant Thorold at Cosgrove Manor. Find that quit rent due from lord of the manor of Cosgrove has not been paid since Mich. 1890. Sends account for 13 years at 13s. p.a. Less 13 years quit rent due from the lords of the manor of Furtho to the lord of the manor of Cosgrove at 5s. p.a. Leaves balance due of £5 4s.

Kelly’s Dir. (1906), 91 General Topic 1906

The only resident listed is Joseph Frost, foreman to John Bird esq. (this is new since 1903)

Under Old Stratford (p. 243) John Bird is listed as private resident at Furtho House.

NRO minutes Arnold Charity 1907

9 Jan. 1907. Reported that John Bird, for many years tenant, had recently died. Letter of sympathy to Mrs Bird.

9 Feb. Letter from Thomas Bird, exor, asking to give up farm at Michaelmas. Also received a number of applications for farm. Agreed to accept resignation at Michaelmas an advertise tenancy in local papers. Farm to be inspected and reported on.

23 March. Two candidates to be interviewed for tenancy.

10 April. Interviews: Arthur Smith (Yardley Gobion) offered £315 and a reasonable percentage on any repairs done to farmhouse. Matthew Hobbs offered £350 if trustees would put farmhouse into repair. Vote 7-1 in favour of Hobbs. Ch. Cmmrs to be asked for consent for expenditure on house.

4 May. Gibbins attended and reported on house. Asked to submit plans to Ch. Cmmrs and try to get interview with them.

15 May. Gibbins reported on his interview with commissioners and quotes £459 for repairs to house. Instructed to begin works to drain house and make foundations and floors dry. If successful, to invite tenders to make house habitable.

1 June. Gibbins reports draining successful and has satisfied MoH. House to be repaired.

12 June. Report of interview with MoH, who strongly condemns plan to repair farmhouse. Hobbs attended and told of situation. Agreed to pull down existing house and ask Gibbins to prepare plans for new one at not more than £1000. Site meeting to choose site; Mr Whiting, tenant, to be asked for permission to sink bore holes on site. Ch.Cmmis. to be informed.

19 June. Site meeting chooses site about 30 yards south of stables and horse yard. Water supply to be laid on.

10 July. Gibbins submits plans. Asked to amend, to Provide five bedrooms, without attics.

NRO, Maps Arnold Charity General Topic 1907

NRO, Map 4505 (F.XIII.285): One of W.D. Gibbins's drawings for new Manor Farm at Furtho, Nov. 1907. Details at 1:12 of porch and at 1:2 of eaves. Porch half-timbered over brick with pediment over containing date 1907.

Map 4503 (F.XIII.283): Block plan, signed W.D. Gibbins, Architect and Surveyor, St Giles St, N'ton. With note by contractor (not named) that this is drg from which he tendered £260 1s 4d (presumably for drains) on 18 Sept. 1907. With Ch.Cmmn receipt date 17 Aug. 1907.

Shows new house some distance in front of farm buildings, with lawn in front of house. House shown as double fronted with bay windows on either side of porch. Extension to rear right hand. Farm buildings shown as exg, with horse yard in front, then main yard behind. Old house to be taken down shown to right hand of larger yard. Run of new drains down to septic tank with overflow into ditch and right-hand end of pond, behind church yard.

Map 4504 (F.X1II.284) is details of front stairs at 1:24, dated Nov. 1907. Colour washed pencil drawings.

Map 4501 (F.XIII.281) is 1:96 sheet of elevations and sections, with contractor's tender note of £1250 made 18 Sept. 1907, sgd John Wareing. And Ch.Cmmn receipt date 17 Aug. Two storeys with attic window but no useable space in roof; cellar beneath front left-hand range with area lights on W. side. Stone dressings to bays, sills and lintels to upper floor windows. Brick quoins and string course between floors; stone string course beneath eaves. Roof slated. Brick chimneys with stone pots and tabling. Water-tank in roof space.

Map 4502 (F.XIII.282) is 1:96 sheet of floor plans. Ground floor: drawing room, dining room, kitchen, dairy with larder forming main block of four rooms either side of outer and inner halls; outshut has scullery, coals and wood, and two wc's (external access only). Cellar is below drawing room (RHS) with slate stair down beneath main stairs. Back stairs between kitchen and scullery.

 Upstairs four main bedrooms and one servant's bedroom; stairs from outside servant's room up into stairs but only a rafters plan at this level; no attic room as such. Bath, wc and closet at back of first floor, next to back stairs No first floor to outshut range.

NRO minutes Arnold Charity 1907

14 Sept. 1907. Tenders opened for house; Wareing at £1513 acepted. Tender for hydraulic ram also accepted. Total cost. Incl. architect’s fee, now £1686.

9 Oct. Application made to Ch. Cmmn. To sell stock to pay for work.

NRO, F XIII.246 Arnold Charity General Topic 1907-8

Bundle of builder’s calculations re new farmhouse at Furtho. Several sheets of quantities for different materials. Also  a scarp of paper (wrapper?) ; Plan of Old Existing House and portion of Estate plan shewing position of new cottages and proposed position of new farm house.

NRO, F.XIII.247 Arnold Charity General Topic 1906-10

Bundle of papers re rebuilding farm. 22 Feb. 1907. Page from Wolverton Express, with advert for farm to let from Mich. next.

29 Dec. 1906. Note to clerk from Bird's son. Father too ill to sign cheque. My uncle will send rent a.s.a.p

4 Jan. 1907. Letter from Dr Maguire, MoH, Pott. RDC. Have known house for 30 years. For most of that time uninhabited, owing to dangerous insanitary condition, bad drainage and several wells inside house. Beyond repair; recommends trustees rebuild on a new site. Should also demolish old dairy, in which there is a foul disused well which affects milk.

31 Jan. 1907. M. Hobbs asking for details of Furtho Farm, vacant following death of Mr Bird.

May 1907. Report from W.,D. Gibbins: arch. and surveyor N’ton. House is stone built and slated, is dilapidated as to be uninhabitable. Damp and overrun with vermin. House faces south, with ground rising 8 or 9 feet from front door. Lawn in three terraces. Water obtained from well at back of house, water comes from spring in same field 400 yards to west and appears to be good and wholesome.

Drains very defective. Three wells inside house. House has not been inhabited for upwards of 30 years. Terrible state, but restorable. Needs to be dried out and then renovated. No bathroom upstairs or wc, long list of work itemised, if you prefer to rebuild I will estimate for this. Repairs scheduled at £400, or £400 with contingency

10 April 1907. Trustees have selected Matthew Hobbs to take tenancy vice John Bird deceased. New tenant prepared to pay £350 p.a. against £300 existing, on condition farmhouse, long unoccupied, is put into habitable condition. Asks Ch.Cmmn for funding arrangements.

7 May, Ch, Cmmn. We will see Gibbins but he should send to W.D. Care first.

9 May Ch. Cmmn. Would prefer renovation if percolating damp can be cured. Will reconsider if this proves impossible. Expenditure must be repaid over 10 years.

3 June Trustees to clerk. Maguire has so condemned building we need special meeting to discuss.

3 June 1907. Reasonable water analysis: a bit hard but good quality for drinking and domestic use.

16 Aug. W.D. Cares to Ch.Cmmn. Long list of shortcomings to spec. for proposed new house.

21 Sept. Ch.Cmmn. Approve tender of £1513 and sale of Consols to cove.

Among odd written: papers in this bundle is one on which has been enclosed in a box. Apparently proposed inscription tablet for new house.

CASA CVMPLIDA
ENLA: OTRA VIDA
1675

8 Feb. 1908. Extras of £181 to tender price sent in by architect (Gibbins).

8 April 1908. Ingoer’s valuer reports on settlement with outgoer, Not ideal but best we could in extraordinary clres, of lease having expired and the house having been unoccupied so long. Hope trustees will be generous towards Hobbs, who will need much help getting farm back into good state.

Oct. 1908. Architect's final account totals £1884 (£1513 contract and £371 extras).

25 Sept. 1908. Hobbs asks for cottages to be whitewashed and put in order; new labourers coming in at Mich. Bill showing total expenditure of £2099, incl. architect, water analysis, Caroe's fee etc. Arch. is W.D. Gibbins, whose notepaper says 5 St Giles St, N'ton, civil engineer, arch. and surveyor, AMICE.

Envelope containing three 1909.10 Finance Act land valuation forms for farmhouse and two cottages. Farm rental is given as £322 10s. gross. RV £291. Matthew Hobbs tenant. Cottages given as £2 15s. and £2 RV. Also some other forms, sent by DV 1913, on which gross value of farm is given as £7530 (said to be in Cosgrove parish); quit rents £15, tithes £510, public tights of way £90, total deductions £615, leaves £6915. Other deductions bring site value down to £4259. Original value of ag. land for ag. purposes given as £6815. With note from one of trustees saying they look about right and we need take no action.

Linen tracing of ground plan of new house. Probably available elsewhere in plan sequence.

NRO, ROP 1625 Church 1907

NRO, ROP 1625 is a xerox of a booklet of 1907 on Potterspury, at the back of which two pages of typed notes on the church (nd, post 1951) have been inserted and include a note on Furtho church plate, since the church there was closed in 1921 and the living united with Potterspury (picture of Furtho church hangs over vestry door at Pott.).

Furtho plate includes a silver gilt cup and cover dated 1601. A silver gilt flagon and paten made to match cup were presented in 1885 by Revd John Chalmers, the then rector.

A list of rectors (presumably of Furtho) may be seen next to the picture in Pott. church.

NRO, F XII.8 Arnold Charity General Topic 1909

19 Jan. 1909 Authority for expenditure. Farmhouse and outbuildings have been rebuilt at total cost of £2109 2s 9d. Board is asked to approve £1800 out of the capital and rest out of income. By separate order £2114 6s 6d out of £4450 in Consols have been sold and proceeds amount to £1800. This can be used to pay for rebuilding. To be repaid over 30 years out of income, which will be invested and income applied to rebuild fund of £2114 6s 6d.

Kelly’s Dir. (1910), 91 General Topic 1910

Said to consist of two cottages and two farmhouses. The two famers are listed: Matthew Hobbs, Manor Farm, and William A. Robinson, no address.

Kelly’s Dir. (1914), 93 General Topic 1914

Similar entry to preceding re two farmhouses, listed as Wm Joseph Hobbs, Manor Farm, and William A. Robinson, farmer.

Bucks. Record Office, G/5/17, 5 March 1914

Patterson gives notice that at next meeting of board he would move that NCC be approached with a view to holding inquiry re altering boundary of Cosgrove parish to include within that parish detached portion of Potterspury at Old Stratford, and also of merging Furtho pa. in one or more adjoining pas.

19 March. Paterson states that since putting his motion down had learnt that prevailing opinion was in favour of amending Cosgrove, Furtho, Passenham and Potterspury boundaries so that area known as Old Stratford, incl. farmhouse occupied by W.W. Dickens (now in Passenham) on west and as far as canal east, should be transferred to Furtho, and that in consideration of loss to Cosgrove, the portion of Furtho to north of Northampton road should be transferred to Cosgrove. Motion to ask CC to hold inquiry carried after discussion.

16 April. Letter from CC asking for maps showing existing and proposed boundaries of affected parishes. Referred to RDC.

NRO, F.XII.86 (a) General Topic 1915

Papers re proposed parish boundary changes and how this will affect Arnold Charity estate. Includes note that gross income from farm at Furtho is £350 p.a. At present time there are 16 apprentices put out by the charity. Average number of apprentices whose premiums are paid by Arnold's charity has been four per annum during last few years.

Printed notice 10 April 1915 re county council holding public local inquiry 26 April at Old Stratford to review boundaries of Cosgrove, Furtho, Passenham and Potterspury.

Also statement to be handed in at inquiry by charity trustees, who are lords of manor of Furtho and owners of Manor Farm, which comprises a newly built farmhouse and about 295 acres of land (nearly half the parish), let to W.J. Hobbs at £350 p.a., which is practically whole income of the charity. Addition of Furtho, rural area with 20 inhabts., to Old Stratford, pop. about 260 and practically suburb of Stony Stratford; two have no links incommon. Furtho rates would be increased to pay for urban services; small pop. would always be outvoted by Old Stratford.

Bucks. Record Office, G/5/17, 22 July 1915

Clerk read order received from CC re boundary changes to Cosgrove, Furtho, Passenham and Potterspury. Order provided for transfer for civil purposes only of the isolated and detached portion of Potterspury lying in Old Stratford area from that parish to Cosgrove, but that the other proposals for the transfer of the Old Stratford area from one parish with the present parish of Furtho had not been allowed. Order was subject to agreement of LGB and to commence from 1 April 1916.

2 March 1916: LGB notify issue of order for transfer of part of Potterspury to Cosgrove.

Bucks. Record Office, G/5/17. Local Govt 25 May 1916

Another standard minute re Furtho not appointing overseers: Hobbs and Dickens appointed by guardians.

NRO, X2960B, Church 1917

Yardley Gobion Village Memories essay, 1958

13 Nearest bomb crater [WW2] was at Furtho; old disused church there used to store books. Until about 1917 afternoon services were held there, the last rector living near London and only coming to take the service at week-ends. Churchwarden and organist walked with other chrch members from Yardley Gobion across the fields.

NRO minutes Arnold Charity 1917

10 Jan. 1917. Rector of Furtho asks for guinea towards repair of churchyard wall: granted. Also points out that east wall of dovecote has fallen down. Agreed to inspect and spend up to £20 if needed on dovecote.

11 April. Dovecote cttee reports that it is in rather bad condition. Builder reports that it will cost about £30 to repair. Left till next meeting: clerk to write to rector.

10 May. Agreed to spend £30 on dovecote but less if possible.

11 July. First builder unable to do work on dovecote for lack of labour. Shakeshaft to finish it. Tenant (W.J. Hobbs) attends: says he has been ordered by War Ag. to plough up land recently sown down to grass. Said he was willing to plough the 16a. had bought seed for. Clerk to write to War Ag. pointing out that no purpose woild be served by ploughing up 22a. for which trustees had provided seed.

Kelly’s Dir. (1920), 91 General Topic 1920

Parish consisting of two cottages and three farmhouses. Only John Payne Barr, Manor farm, listed as a resident

Furtho Church Advowson 1921

Jesus College, Oxford, 27 June 1997 (Dr Brigid Allen, Archivist). Docs. re Furtho consist of those listed of sheets already sent and three folders re College livings between the two world Wars. Check latter first.

Green manilla folder labelled College Livings and numbered 29A. Individual livings flagged within file.

Potterspury, Furtho flag etc starts with:

Jesus College, Oxford, File 29A contact: 31 May 1921. Eccl. Cmmrs (File 100,139) to Jesus. Union of Benefices Act 1919. Potterspury with YG V and Furtho V (sic). Proposed union. Sends draft petition to crown, in which Potterspury with Yardley desc. as Vicarage and Furtho as Rectory. Bishop's commissioners have approved. We have prepared scheme based on commissioner's report but with modifications. Potterspury living now full (A.P. Symes) but Furtho vacant. Symes has consented tc. become first incumbent of united benefice. Only one parsonage house will be left standing in united benefice, namely that belonging to P with YG and this shall become parsonage house of united benefice. Therefore recommend that P with YG and F be united to form United Benefice of Potterspury cum Furtho cum Yardley Gobion. Parish church of Potterspury shall be parish church of united benefice. Patronage shall be exercised alternately, with patron of Furtho to present first.

23 April 1920 R.S. Mylne, Furtho to ‘Mr Hardy’ [Vice Principal] . Personal greetings. Ought to let you know that Min. Health wants three-quarters of an acre of Furtho Glebe isolated from Furtho Rectory Farm, and I understand that consent of the College should be given. Price has been raised to £15, so I am quite satisfied. Eccl. Cmmrs will get purchase money. Hope Jesus flourishes. Minute: Yes, Bursar write.

26 April 1920 Bursar to Recd. R.S. Mylne DCL. Furtho. College has agreed to sale

2 June 1921. Bursar to W.J. Morris. Please examine enclosed draft and report.

3 June 1921. Morris to Hazel. Yes, since it is what the commissioners, when I sat with them at Potterspury on 9 April, decided. 8 June 1921. Bursar to Eccl. Cmmrs. College approves. 16 July 1921. Eccl. Cmmrs to Jesus, enclosing notice saying that scheme was published 31 May 1921 to patrons and parishes concerned.

12 Oct. 1921. Browne & Wells (B. Montague Browne) to Jesus. I have a small sum in hand payable to rector of Furtho, but unaware of an appointment having been made. There was a project to unite with Potterspury: what is position.

13 Oct. Bursar to B&M. Eccl.Cmmrs 14 July approved scheme for union, with alternate presentation.

12 Nov. 1921. Letter from Bursar. Have had a letter from W.J. Morris stating that the vicar of the united livings of P, F etc has received promotion to a living in the dioc. Carlisle. Three livings amount altogether to about £310 p.a. and, acc. to Morris, considerable sums will have to be found quite soon to carry on the schools.

16 Nov. 1921. A.P. Symes, vicar, to Bursar. Have accepted another living. Under arrangement when Furtho was joined to this pa. Jesus have next presentation, that is this turn. Before I accepted other living I was in act of selling glebe at Furtho, this I hope to carry out before leave parish soon after Christmas, then it will raise income of living to about £230 p.a. At present I only receive about £80 net. Church council here, since they now have the power, would be grateful if you would place your nomination before them before presenting. 'We are strong Churchmen in this parish, & would like a man who would carry on the teaching that the parishioners are used to'. Have a sung Eucharist as main service, wear vestments etc. A man who would suit would be Rev. G. Feber, Harborne Hall Prep. School, Birmingham.

17 Nov. 1921. Bursar to Symes; acks. 16th

17 Nov. 1921. Maddocks & Colson, Solrs, Doctors Commons to Bursar. Understand living of Furtho, united with Potterspury-cum-Yardley, is in your gift, jointly with Duke of Grafton, with whom we are also communicating. Incumbent, A.P. Symes, has been approached by tenant of glebe (Walter William Dickens) with view to purchase by Dickens of glebe. Final offer is £2100. Buildings on the land are in a most deplorable condition, and amount payable under surveyor's report by late incumbent is entirely insufficient. Tenant is prepared to take premises in condition they are in. Amount paid to QAB in respect of dilapidations is £522 and sale of glebe for £2100, tog. with dilap. money, represents in our opinion and that of valuer a very advantageous proposition for benefice.

Some of buildings are dangerous and one which immediately abuts on high road is a danger to public; sale must be concluded as soon as possible. Surveyor in case is E.L. Greville-Heygate, agent of Northampton and Rutland Glebe Assn, and is well known to Eccl.Cmmrs, who will undoubtedly agreeto sale and will expedite completion if patrons consent. Income of living will be considerably increased, as money will be invested at 5.5 if not nearer 6 per cent. Please give consent.

24 Nov. 1921. Bursar to Maddocks & Colson. College agrees.

21 Nov. 1921. Eccl.Cmmrs to Haddocks & Colson. Have had under consideration your proposal on behalf of incumbent sale of Furtho glebe to W.W. Dickens at £2100 for about 100.1.23 acre of glebe tog. with cottage and buildings thereon. Will approve; do not require reservation of minerals. Must get bishop's approve and should then communicate with our solrs.

25 Nov. 1921. M&C to A.E.W. Hazel, Senior Bursar. Much obliged for patron's approval. When will college be able to sign conv.

29 Nov. 1921. Bursar to M&C. College can seal at meeting on 9 Dec.

1 Dec. 1921. Paterson, Wakefield Estate Office, to Morris. Goldberg's address is Alexton Rectory, Uppingham. Am at sea as to value of combined living. Plant left a statement showing gross income of Potterspury to be £104, which was shown to Symes and to Duke, who built Yardley church, had endowed it with £100 p.a. but Eccl.Cmmrs now only pay some £96. Symes was told it was worth around £110 now, but he asserts it is only a little over £4 a quarter. How figure is arrived at I do not know, but appears that tenant had some agreement with Mylne that tenant was to pay all rates and taxes and deduct from rent, so what he deducts Symes does not know but what a fool not to make himself acquainted. Glebe I understand is around 100a. and supposed rent I am told is £91, so how amount is reduced to £16 p.a. I do not know. Also supposed to be some tithe payable at some time, amounting to £35, but no-one seems to know anything about this.

Whole matter wants sifting. Has Jesus done anything about making living over to Bp? Duke is continually being asked to do so, so that living can be made up to the £300 minimum. Any news of Symes successor? Duke is continually getting applications for Potterspury. We have two Lord Chancellor's livings vacant near here (Ashton, £350; Grafton £200).

2 Dec. 1921. Same to same. Tenant of Furtho glebe lands called here today for name and address of duke's soli; when I asked him what for, said to do with sale of glebe, which he has bought from Symes. Told me that Bp and Jesus had agreed. Price agreed is £2100 and that Symes had £556 in hand, the amount of dilapidations paid by Mylne's exors. Asked him about missing tithe: told me there was a tithe of £20 due from Arnold's Charity, who own Furtho Farm, which had not been paid for some time but had now been paid up, so that it looks as if Furtho living should now be worth something like £152 at least.

3 Dec. 1921. W.J. Morris, Abbey Lodge, Farthinghoe, Brackley to 'Hazel' (Bursar). For you to have this letter from my friend Paterson. Much as I like Bp of Peterborough I am dead against giving any by more patronage. I have written to Goldberg, former curate, good chap, to see if he is interested. Seems a sorry look out for anyone. Note at top: am sending another Furtho letter just arrived.

3 Dec. 1921. M&C to Bursar. Have had draft cony, engrossed for execution. Duke has executed. Must complete before Xmas. Please get it through a college meeting.

12 Dec. 1921. Bursar returns sealed conveyance of glebe to W.W. Dickens for £2100.

12 Dec. 1921. ?Principal to Morris. Thanks for letter and enclosures. Have you heard from former curate. Agree we should not give up any advowsons to bishop if we can help it. He has applied to college for living, holding out bait that if he gets patronage Ecc.Cmmrs will raise living to £300. Some fellows wanted to, but I postponed question till we see if we can get someone. Glebe at Furtho has just been sold for £2100, which will give income of over £110, and retiring incumbent says living would now be worth £230.

13 Dec. 1921. M&C send sealing fee.

26 Dec. 1921. Symes to ? Principal. I have withdrawn my acceptance of the other living, so will remain vicar of Potterspury. A petition was sent to me signed by practically all adults of parish, both Nonconformist and Church, asking me to stay; after advice from bishop have withdrawn from Carlisle living. Pencil minute: I suppose we shall not be bothered about this any more?

9 Jan. 1922. Acid ack. of preceding: good deal of letter writing has been done which now process unnecessary.

27 Jan. 1922. Eccl.Cmmrs to Symes. Have again considered this living (Pott. cum Furtho cum YG) and are prepared to renew from 29 July 1921 temporary grant of £114 p.a. previous made in this case. This will be subject to conditions re benefices in private patronage set out in enclosed memo. Distinctly to be understood this is temporary only, an annual payment will cease immediately on any transfer of patronage. If transfer is to a public patron, grant will be made permanent. If it remains private and a private benefaction is made to cover half the grant, the other half will be made permanent. With a copy of Bursar of Jesus.

28 Jan. 1922. Bursar to Eccl.Cmmrs. Acks. preceding. You probably now that whole of glebe of Furtho, recently joined to Pott., has just been sold for £2100. This will substantially augment living, although it remains small.

3 Oct. 1923. Bursar to Crockford's. Enclosed list of college livings is correct, except that Furtho has been united to an adjoining benefice, itself the result of a union. Benefice is now Potterspury cum Furtho cum Yardley Gobion. College presentation is now alternate with Duke of Grafton. Furtho could still be listed separately, but is a vicarage, not a rectory.

30 June. 1933 Registrar to Jesus. Writing on behalf of vicar for consent to sale of remaining portion of Furtho Glebe, a piece of land on Watling St, Old Stratford, approx. half an acre. when rest of glebe sold 12 years ago this was retained as site for possible church. No likelihood of church being required so thought desirable to sell. Have had very satisfactory offer of £205 from a Mr Humphreys.

5 July. 1933 Jesus to Registrar. GB gives its consent.

6 July.  1933 Registrar acks. Draft conveyance on file from Revd Canon Folliott Sandford Keysell to Ransfor John George Humphrey. Premises said to be situate in hamlet of Old Stratford and parish of Cosgrove with frontage of 122 ft to Watling St. Plan identifies as OS 159 on N side Watling St just W of crossroads in middle of Old Stratford.

25 Aug. 1933 Registrar to Bursar. Sends draft conveyance. 31 Aug. Same to same. Thanks for approving.

19 Sept 1933. Same to same. Please seal engrossment.

28 Sept. 1933 Same to same. Acks. receipt of engrossment.

Kelly’s Dir. (1920), 91 Church 1920

Description of church rewritten in this edition: appears to have been built in about 1250, but the priest’s door and a low side window are older; it was repaired in 1620 by Sir E. Furtho. The church was thoroughly restored in 1870 at cost of £100, defrayed by Arnold Trustees.

Living is rectory, yearly net value £110. Incl. 99a. glebe.

NRO, F.XIII.250 Arnold Charity General Topic 1920-33

Schedule of repairs done to farmhouse and buildings at Furtho since Jan. 1920. To end of lease (1926) total is £582. Since then dutch barns £169, cowhouses £159, roofs to farm buildings £175, making road £166 (all in 1927-32)

Next paper on file is schedule of proposed repairs dated 10 Oct. 1932. Fairly lengthy list involving house, cottages and buildings, but not costed.

Church 1923

NRO, Peterborough Diocesan Records, Order in Council no. 242, 25 July 1921

Correspondence inside sealed and signed copy of order. 1 May 1923. Copy Bishop to Symes at Pott. Vicarage. Preservation of Furtho church is very strictly governed by certain legal considerations. No mention of pulling down is contained in order in council. If this is considered desirable, must proceed as in s.9 of Union of Benefices Act, by application under Act of 34 & 35 Vict. c. 90 to consistory court for a faculty. Consent of patrons and two-thirds of parishioners of united benefice must be obtained, and Act requires that before faculty is granted sum must be raised sufficient to defray expense of transferring tombstones, mons. etc in church at Furtho to parish church of united benefice. If church demolished, site and churchyard must under Act be properly fenced in and kept free from desecration.

That is legal position; will be glad to talk over matter with you. Appreciate your problem. Can see no reason why you should not dismantle church, remove fittings for use elsewhere, and close it as far as regular use is concerned, provided that parish responsible for upkeep of fabric, and churchyard is kept fenced and tidy.

Understand you have consulted Eccl. Commrs re latter possibility. Let me know outcome.

NRO. F.XII.8 Arnold Charity 1926

Scheme made by Board of Education, 30 Nov. 1926, for Arnold's Educational Foundation. Refers to schemes of 1887, 1893, 1900, 1915 and 1924, of which 1887 is Principal. New scheme appears to be setting up separate educational charity, endowed with £283 10s 10d univested accumulation of income and £611 8s 3d in 5 per cent War stock. Funds to be divided into 11 parts: four for two parishes of Stony Stratford, three for either or both of Upper and Nether Heyford, two for St Giles, Northampton, one for Stowe-IX-Chuches, one for Weedon Beck.

To be used to assist pupils to attend universities, schools, institutions etc other than elementary by paying fees etc, with preference for those who conform to doctrines of Church of England. Also to make arrangements with LEA to promote health or physical education of children at elementary schools in parish concerned. And otherwise promote education, including social and physical training, of children of poorer classes. LEA to be consulted in application of funds.

1936 scheme basically similar, but uses term Stony Stratford Ward of Wolverton UDC instead of parishes; ancient parish of Cosgrove still named as such.

NRO, F. XIII.250 Arnold Charity General Topic 1927

Includes an exchange with Ch.Cmmrs 1927 in which latter authorise expenditure of about £160 on two dutch barns. Tenant to pay extra £8, which represents £5 per cent.

Kelly’s Dir. (1931), 92    General Topic 1931

Same entry as preceding year, with J.P. Barr at Manor Farm as only resident listed. Still a ref. to three farms and two cottages

NRO, Arnold Charity 1932

13 Jan. 1932. Letter from Barr accepting reduced rent read; tenancy agreement to be prepared.

Accounts in this period show 1/6th of income goes to pools branch, 5/6ths to apprenticing and educational branch.

Tenant to be allowed to take stone from dovecote, much of  which had fallen down, to repair farm road.

Notice received from county council as to improvement line and building line of land on Watling Street.

16 March. Stone from dovecote found unsuitable for repairing road. Gravel to be used instead.

12 Oct. Clerk reports rent in arrear for 25 March and 29 Sept last. Barr to be told to pay first sum within three weeks and balance by end of year.

NRO, F.XIII.250 Arnold Charity 1932-3

Corres, between clerk and tenant over difficulties with rent. Mich. 1932 rent not paid till Jan. 1933.

19 Nov. 1932. Barr to clerk. After three wet seasons in a row on this farm the grass as well as the plough land has deteriorated to such an extent that I feel bound to ask for rent reduction. Tried sowing down ploughed land but could not get any improvement. Told that unless my milk  improved would only get cheese price for it. Cannot grow enough hay on farm for stock.

2 Feb. 1933. Barr to clerk. Have agreed to take another farm and so wish to leave Furtho at Michaelmas.

28 Feb. 1933. Barr to clerk. You claim you have not had my notice to quit. I sent it Jan. 30; this letter being sent registered: renewed notice to quit at Michaelmas.

10 March 1933. Clerk to Barr. Farm Cttee have been over farm and surprised to find it 'in such a foul and dilapidated state'. No attempt by you to keep fences, ditches, drains etc in good repair and manage land in husbandlike manner. Unless you improve we will claim dilapidations at end of tenancy.

5 April 1933. Clerk to Barr. You have not returned agreement to surrender farm at Mich. next. We must have this for next trustees' meeting, also your rent.

NRO, F.XIII.250 Arnold Charity 1933-37

File of correspondence re Manor Farm tenancy. Also a letter on file July 1926 from Barr offering to stay on at same rent of £368. Papers not properly filed.

Outgoing tenant in this period is J.P. Barr, who is in arrears with rent, Aug. 1933.

Final demand sent Dec. 1933. July 1933. Clerk declines offer from prospective tenant of £220 p.a. Several out-letters to prospective tenants. One of them notes house is good one: trustees rebuilt it 25 years ago; have recently brought cowhouses up to date, there is a standing for 29 cows with most modern fittings. Two dutch barns have also recently been erected.

Trustees advertise farm in Farmer & Stockbreeder, July 1933. Open to offers for rent. Numerous replies. One enquirer is told that present rent is £295, £1 an acre. Farm is very well watered and water is pumped by ram to house and buildings.

Text of advert describes farmhouse as built in 1908. Cellar in basement. Ground floor: entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, kitchen, larder, large dairy, scullery. 2 wc's outside and buildings for coal and wood. Four bedrooms and servants' bedroom. WC, bathroom and clothes closet. Water tank in roof with ram. Whole is well drained to septic tank. Good range of farm buildings incl. 2 dutch barns. Cow house with standing for 29 cows with water laid on recently brought up to date. Two brick and slate workmen's cottages, one six rooms and one four, near house. Farm is 225ac. of pasture, 60a. arable, and about 9.75 ac. plantations, garden etc. Also text of notice in local paper, describing farm as a good dairy farm.

NRO, F.XIII.250 Arnold Charity 1933-4

Lengthy corres. Ending Oct. 1934 re payment due to Barr from Jones, incoming tenant, after change of tenancy. Note in 1933 that a year ago Barr gave notice to quit but withdrew it when rent reduced to £295.

NRO, F.XIII.81 Manor 1933-6

Further down correspondence re extinguishing quit rents initial exchange between clerk and Cosgrove solicitors we thought this had been dealt with by trustees of Agar (evidently lord of manor of Cosgrove before late Mrs Winterbotham) but will investigate. With letters back into 1933 pursuing Mrs Agar's exors for unpaid quit rent.

14 March 1933. H. Bruce Logan, National House, 60-66 Wardour Street, to clerk. Your letter addressed to G.H. Winterbottom of Cosgrove Hall handed to me. He knows nothing of any charity. He did not take possession of Cosgrove Hall till 1928 and believes this is a matter for exor of Mrs Agar, owner of estate. Mr W. does not own the estate, merely the hall.

6 Aug. 1935. N.J. Ferguson (? initials), The Little Manor, Cosgrove, to clerk. I did not purchase Cosgrove Hall estate in 1919. Owner is Mrs B.E. Agar, whose address is the hall. Should apply to her for quit rent.

File ends with receipt dated 21 Jan. 1936 from George Harold Winterbottom, lord of the manor of Cosgrove, to Arnold Trustees for £5 to extinguish rent of 5s. p.a.

Kelly’s Dir. (1940), 94    General Topic 1934

Intro. Revised to say that electricity is available and water is supplied by Towcester RDC.

Still a ref. to two cottages and three farms, but only one farmer listed W.J. Jones, Manor Farm.

NRO, F.XIII.81 Manor 1935-6

Bundle of correspondence (no sub-numbers) re extinguishment of quit rents.

First paper on top of bundle is draft receipt from Arnold trustees, as lords of manor of Furtho, to lord of manor of  Cosgrove of £13, compensation to extinguish quit rent of 13s. formerly payable. Dated 1936.

10 Dec. 1935. clerk of Arnold Charity to F.W. Bull, solicitor, Newport Pagnell. All I can find is that we pay Cosgrove 5s. p.a. and you pay us 13s. p.a., leaving balance of 8s. in our favour. If you wish to extinguish I will bring before trustees' next meeting. No nothing how these origiated. Other exchanges name lord of Cosgrove as Mr Winterbotham.

Other letters mention that these payments are manorial incidents and so will end automatically at end of 1935.

Need to pay 20 years compensation. We suggest exchanging receipts for £5 and £13 and we will give trustees £8.

Redemption just fitted in before 31.12.35 deadline.

NRO Minutes of Arnold Trust Manor 1936

8 Jan. 1936. Clerk reported that under 1922 Law of Property Act quit rent of 13s. payable by G.H. Winterbottom as lord of manor of Cosgrove to trustees and quit rent of 5s. payable by trustees to lord of Cosgrove became extinguished from 31 Dec. 1935, with compensation at 20 years purchase. He had agreed to do all this by payment of different and exchange of receipts. Duke of Grafton's quit rent fo 7s. 1d. to be extinguished in same way.

CHURCH 1937

NRO, Peterborough Diocesan Records, Order in Council no. 242, 25 July 1921. (Apptly no briefer ref.)

Correspondence inside sealed and signed copy of order. 3 Aug. 1937. Barely legible note from Beasley at Pott. Vicarage to Vicar of Earls Barton about problem of Furtho church. My parish has two church also a third at Furtho, standing in the middle of a farm; if used would service three houses. Is not 'closed': there is a service there once a year at harvest and a churchyard. Who is liable for repair of churchyard fence?

4 Aug. 1937. Vicar of Earls Barton passes on enquiry to dioc. registrar.

6 Aug. 1937. Registrar to Beasley. Under order in council Furtho ceased to be a parish church and became a chapel of ease to Potterspury. No provision made for closing church or churchyard but in 1923 then Bishop (Woods) 'gave an informal kind of permission' to Symes, incumbent to remove fittings for use elsewhere and close church as far as regular worship was concerned. Made two conditions: parish should be responsible for upkeep of fabric of church and churchyard should be kept fenced and tidy. This is not in any sense a closing order, which is necessary before cost of repair and maintenance can be thrown on local rating authority.

Have no idea what spaces are still left in churchyard, but there are still residents entitled to burial, so not much prospect of your obtaining a statutory order till burial ground is full. Will consider further on return from holiday. But at present PCC of Potterspury United Benefice is responsible for repairs and maintenance.

7 Aug. 1937. Beasley to Registrar. Arnold's Trustees, who are landlords of farm which adjoins Furtho churchyard, have called on PCCs (plural) of Pott. and YG to repair and replace walls and fences. Part drystone wall, part post and rail fencing. Before doing this PCC wants their legal position defined.

Was Furtho legally closed 12 years ago when services were discontinued and church furniture distributed between Pott. and YG. If so, can churchyard be legally regarded as closed and cost of repairs recovered from RDC (LGA 1933, s. 269(2))? If not, do last admitted churchwardens of Furtho continue in office until successors appointed and are they responsible for maintenance? If PCCs are responsible, are they liable to provide stock-proof fences and walls?

Need advice, sinec Councils are taking view that they are not responsible for maintenance at Furtho churchyard. Covered by handwritten note to registrar of even date, in which Beasley again refers to two PCCs. Need your authority to deal with two councils.

6 Sept. 1937. Registrar to Beasley. Have returned from holiday to find your letter of 7 Aug. Reiterates previous letter. Do not know if Min. Health would now make a closing order, but probably not if still spaces in churchyard and residents in parish entitled to burial. Until closed, PCC is responsible for maintenance. Churchwardens not liable because PCC (Powers) Measure 1921 s. 4 transferred responsibility to PCCs, whether churches open or closed.

Could argue that it is farmer's responsibility to fence in his stock, and he is certainly liable to prevent cattle damaging churchyard walls. Try to get contribution from him. In other places a simple fence in front of churchyard walls prevents cattle from rubbing against church property.

Covered by personal letter. Used enclosed letter with PCC and not letter of 6 August.

NRO, F.XIII.249 Church 1938

SPAB report on church, 1 Nov. 1938. Small disused church, consisting of chancel, nave and western tower. Murray's handbook of 1878 states in was built 1620 and restored 1870. Also mentions mon. in chancel with effigies of man and two wives supposed to be Anthony Furtho who d. 1 Eliz.

Chancel does not appear to have been rebuilt; retains C14 windows, a piscina on S side sanctuary and recessed arch on north side, but no mon. Has a steep pitched roof ceiled with plaster on underside of collars and rafters, covered with old handmade tiles of fine colour.

Nave and tower evidently rebuilt 1620 and date is recorded on exterior face of south side of nave. windows and doorways appear to be reproductions of C15 work, but chancel and tower arches, of elliptical form, are C17 together with roof of nave, which has moulded tie-beams and purlins and ridge. Roof covered with deal boarding above rafters and a false roof of steeper pitch covered with slates, also lead gutters behind parapets of 1870.

Settlement has occurred in tower and N and S walls are cracked from ground upwards, where walls are recessed behind archway into nave. Roof, constructed in form of a pyramid and covered with tiles, appears in good repair, with the exception of some displaced tiles at the apex. Belfry contains a small bell hung on an oak frame. Fittings of bell in need of repair and boarding of 1st and belfry floors appears to have perished. Pierced boards of belfry windows are displaced and need to be refixed.

Interior devoid of interest with exception of nave roof and C17 font and cover. Plaster has been removed from walls and rough masonry repointed. Nave fitted with very poor deal seats and bad pulpit of stone and marble. No altar in Chancel and altar rails and seats are of poor description. Mon. mentioned by Murray not in church and vicar has no knowledge of it.

Structure appears sound apart from itemised repairs, estimated at £50. Report by William Weir, Letchworth, Herts., for SPAB.

NRO, Minutes Arnold Charity 1939

12 April 1939. Alication from W.J. Jones asking for £58 continuation of allowance on his rent. Agreed to allow £58 p.a. for three years from Mich. 1938 provided tenant cleared out drawins and ditches and left them cleansed, and also farmed the arable land in a more satisfactory manner.

11 Oct. Meeting inquorate (only one in book). Tenant and owner had had a notice from War Ag. ordered him to plough up a field of grass land. Letter from tenant read saying that field in question was suitable for ploughing.

Clerk reported letter from Miss Wake saying dovecote had been repaired at cost of £32 and she had collected £26 towards this. Question of help adjourned.

This is the last meeting in the book. Loose at end: receipt from Miss Wake for a selection of Furtho deeds for Place-Names Survey,

14 March 1932. Also letter 19 Sept. 1939 from Miss Wake saying that Arnold Papers have been moved to her house at Cosgrove for duration of war. Agreed to move all deposits out of Northampton as soon as war declared.

Also corres. March-May 1938 asking if trustees will deposit all their non-current papers with NRS, not just the deeds they have lent. With letter of thanks following agreement received. (Nothing re this in 1938 minutes.)

NRO, F.XII.105 Manor 1940

File of pps. re claim for war damag,19 Nov. 1940, at Furtho Farm, and repairs to buildings etc.

21 Nov. 1940. Clerk to one of trustees (?chairman) Understand that during the air-raid on Tuesday night the farm buildings at Furtho were rather badly damaged, which has since been confirmed by Mr C.H. Weston. Damage chiefly to roofs of the farm buildings, the whole of which will require re-roofing; farmhouse only slightly damaged. [21 Nov. was a Thursday, therefore raid was Tuesday 19th].

13 Dec. 1940. Claim form submitted by Clerk to Trustees of Arnold's Charity, 2 St Giles Square. Premises consist of farmhouse, two cottages and farm buildings. Damage occurred 19 Nov. 1940 caused by explosive bomb. Let from year to year at £290 p.a. from 26 Sept. 1933 to Wm John Jones, Furtho Manor, Stony Stratford. Damaged assessed at £223 8s 10d, agreed with DV. Add fees and claim totals £238 2s 10d. With surveyor's report attached: two bomb craters to fill in, some damage to house, rather more to farm buildings, slight damage to one cottage, none to the other.

NRO, ZA 2387 Arnold Charity 1940

30 Nov. 1940. Woods, auctioneer, surveyors etc, F.H. Allen re bomb damage at Furtho Manor Farm. DV has appointed you to act for him in agreeing figures. We act for Browne & Wells. Sending schedule of damage seen in Arnold pps. List of repairs to farm buildings totalling £219 19s., also damage to cottages totalling £3 9s. And a separate list of damage, mainly to windows, to church ('The Chruch does not appear to be used'). Totals  £63 13s. 10d. With some working sheets, which include ref. to (damage at in same raid?) Roade and Abthorpe.

NRO, Minutes Arnold Charity 1941

8 Jan. 1941. Clerk reported that farmhouse and buildings had been damaged by enemy action; surveyor asked to report; damage agreed at £223 with DV. First aid repairs to house done by RDC. Proper repairs to be put in hand.

9 April. Report from H.A. Rolls, architect,costing work at farm at £550. Committee appointed to consider cost and report back.

18 June. Special meeting accepts Shakeshaft's quotation to do work: ordered to go ahead.

8 Oct. War damage repaired completed. Letter from Jones re future rent. Resolved that full rent of £290 must now be paid.

NRO, Top.Notes., Furtho General Topic 1946

24 June 1946. Memo by Joan Wake. Major S.F. Markham, 1 Calverton Road, Stony Stratford called on me Sunday 23rd. He asks about history of Old Stratford; he is writing a history of Stony. He is cousin of late Major C.A.M.; was MP for Nottingham for 15 years, private sec. to Ramsey Macdonald etc.

Told me that Parratts, Stony Stratford, have box of Stony charity records, incl. Arnold's and Whalley's charities, incl. much Northants. material. This is firm who told me everything destroyed when I called during last war. Markham said this was because of anti-Northants feeling in Bucks: will not hand anything over. I promised not to approach Parratts until he had finished his book.

NRO, Minutes Arnold Charity 1947

8 Jan, 1947. Agreement with War Ag. To do drainage signed. Cost shared as before.

9 April. Letter from NRS re move to Lamport Hall. Agreed as long as suitable arrangments maintained.

8 Oct. Letter from tenant re boundary between Furtho Farm and Beeches because of dispute re cattle damaging banks of bfook. Site visit agreed.

NRO, Minutes Arnold Charity 1948

14 Jan. 1948. Clerk had written to Jesus re Beeches; they had passed letter on to Queen's as owners. Dovecote  reported out of repair: letter to Miss Wake to ask if NRS could do anything. War Ag. to clean pond at Furtho.

14 April. Various repairs discussed. Spinney needs culling and replanting with expert advice.

14 July. Resolved not to sign draft agreement with co. planning officer re dovecote.

13 Oct. Offer by Co. Council to put dovecote into repair in return for certain easements re access. Trustees consider they cannot grant any further access beyond existing, but will allow groups to visit by appointment. Insurance on buildings raised from £4,000 to £6,000 and dutch barns from £200 to £400.

NRO, Arnold Charity Minutes General Topic 1950

6 Sept. 1950. Clerk and chairman had attended public inquiry re proposal to form new parish of Old Stratford in which Manor Farm, Furtho, would be incorporated. Clerk had protested that inclusion would involve payment of rates for public services, which were not available to Manor House and were unlikely to be for many years. No decision yet announced but Lord Henley, inquiry chairman, had said that position of Manor Farm would receive careful attention.

NRO, ZA 9609 General Topic 1953

Potterspury's Coronation Scrapbook, written by H.J. Pettifer, then aged 43, includes short note on Furtho, where he evidently once lived (inferred from comments in Pott. section of book).

Some years ago I went to a service at Furtho church; in fair condition and I believe it had one bell. Have an idea that inside were relics such a swords dug up there. A bomb dropped at Furtho in Second World War.

In 1953 church and cemetery I should imagine are in very wild state. There is a track, partly road, partly cart track and footpath leading to Furtho from Potterspury Furtho Lane Estate, going beyond Furtho leads out to Yardley Gobion - Old Stratford road.

I believe vicar of Pott. formerly preached at Furtho once a year. I don't think church at Furtho is used at all now, probably not for last ten years or so.

Church 1956

NRO, County Planning Committee, 12 April 1956

Diocesan surveyor enquires whether CC would be willing to demolish Furtho church and to leave site clean and tidy if they CC were allowed to have materials. Roads and Bridges Cttee had accepted offer on understanding no time limit be placed on work.

Planning Committee notes.

NRO, Minutes Arnold Charity 1959

21 Jan. 1959. valuer to be consulted re farm rent.

22 April. Valuers report. Farm is outlying and, although house itself good, buildings inadequate by modern standards. Farm very wet and certain fields which Jones had drained had shown considerable improvement. Jones unable to let cottages to farm tenants so had let them to statutory tenants, so would not be available to a new tenant if Jones should leave. Jones had carried out  various improvements: electricity to cottages, erection of deep litter house, drainage of certain arable fields. Also a heavy liability for hedging and ditching. Fair rent would be £840, about 57s. an acre.

Clerk to write to Jones suggesting £840 rent from Mich. 1960. If Jones make offer near this figure should be accepted. Cttee to inspect and report on hedging and ditching. Agreed nothing could be done re cottages.

15 July. Tenant has offered 50s. an acre. Valuer sticks to 57s. but since Jones an old tenant and trustees wish to avoid arbitration should try for 55s. Trustees should not go below this. Hedges and ditches not in such a bad state as to justify a schedule of repairs being given tenant.

21 Oct. Tenant agrees to 55s. from Mich. 1960.

NRO, Minutes Arnold Charity 1969

9 July 1969. Death of C.H. Weston, aged 96, reported. For many years a trustee. Son Jack Weston, who farms at YG and is very familiar with estate, willing to succeed him. Agreed to elect him.

Tenant willing to vacate at Michaelmas, as long as released from any dilapidations. Agreed better to forego dilapidations for sake of getting vacant possession and re-letting at higer rent. Should also get tenant to waive any tenant right. Agreed to take steps as quickly as possible to get vacant poss., preferably before Mich. 1970, although Mich. 1969 probably too soon.

11 Aug. Full valuer's report on farm received. Jones will go at Mich. if not charged dilapidations; he would make no claim for tenant right. Surrender agreed on these terms. Better of two cottages occupied: agreed not to turn him out because of age and infirmity, but should be asked to consider alternative accommodation. Tenant agrees to tidy up farm; agreed to re-let farm to tenant who must occupy farmhouse and be responsible for repairs to road. Grant of £3,500 should be use for modernisation of farm but expenditure should be discussed with new tenant after re-letting. Tenancy to be advertised on tender basis.

17 Sept. tenders received from farm: £11 18s. an acre down to £6 10s an acre. Two shortlisted, who have offered and £10 10s and £10 7s. an acre; their present farms to be visited.Offer for purchase of Ashpole Spinney turned down.

8 Oct. Mr D. Sansome accepted as tenant. Expenditure of £400 on cottage authorised. Accepted that min. of £3,500 would have to be spent on farm buildings. Noted that church in very bad condition. Insurance on main house to be raised to £8,000 and cover on buildings and cottages to be reviewed.

NRO, Minutes Arnold Charity 1970

11 Feb. 1970. Estimates of £620 for cottage and £4,600 for farm building repairs received. Agreed to proceed and also do other minor items as they turn up. Agreed to consider applying to Cmmrs for new scheme once current work on Manor Farm complete, so that charity could be more easily worked in accordance with modern standards.

6 May. Repairs now under way after obstruction on minor points from RDC. Tenant expected to take cottage in next few weeks. Water supply to farm constantly failing and new supply system agreed. Agreed to put farmhouse and cottages on main sewer for drainage.

9 Sept. Chairman reported that new tenant had not had easy year but had had very good harvest. Excellent tenant who should be given every encouragement, esp. in view of high rent.

NRO, Minutes Arnold Charity 1971

27 Jan. 1971. Tenant of one of cottages had vacated.  Agreed to combine into one so that other tenant occupied both. Tenant lists expenditure of £3908 on house and buildings, incl. mains water, storage heaters, Aga, milking parlour improvements (£1380, by far largest item) and concreting. Agreed to write off tenant-right over 15 years to Mich. 1985.

12 May. Drainage costing £1104 agreed; tenant to pay interest on net outlay. Agreed to set aside £1300 p.a. towards improvements on farm. Agreed that a new scheme be brought into use as soon as possible.

22 Sept. Drainage work costing £1104 complete; grant received. Further draining to be done next year. Farm road needs repairing; grant sought.

NRO, Minutes Arnold Charity 1972

12 Jan. 1972. Storage heaters to be installed in cottage 26 April. Programme of drainage works and road improvement agreed for 1972-4.

27 Sept. Tenant had increased his herd by 50 cows and engaged another cowman, who needed a home. Agreed to get estimates for either a new bungalow or to extend cottage.

Noted that Friends of Friendless Churches wished to restore Furtho church: tenant had objected to use of road to church; vicar of Potterspury asks trustees to obtain amicable solution so that work could be carried out.

NRO, Minutes Arnold Charity 1974

30 Jan. 1974. Bungalow should be finished mid March. Tenant very pleased with work. Chairman reported farm to be in good order. £2000 loan taken up from Merton; £1150 found from reserves.

8 May. Bungalow completed and occupied. Total cost £6772; £50 retained on final account. New rent of £560 to be charged when tenant took physical possession. Scheme for further drainage agreed but no money available this year. One trustee said that he felt enough had now been spent on farm and balance should be allowed to accumulate to spend on objects of charity.

Clerk has removed deed box from his office due to lack of space: to be offered to NRS.

25 Sept. NRO has collected deed box and certain contents for checking. Noted that certain records of the Charity were held by the Bucks Record Office in Aylesbury.

NRO, Old Stratford parish council records 1985

In a folder of cones. re footpaths is an exchange of letters with John Marchant of Knotwood Farm, Cosgrove Road, Old Stratford, 1985, re diverting a footpath. The letterhead describes the firm as Marchant & Son, farmers, est. 1948: J.W. Marchant (i.e. John) and D.J. Marchant.

Also some letterhead on same folder for D.F. Sansome, farmer, Furtho Manor Farm (1981) re footpaths over his land. Possible that his landlord will be making applications in near future for minor diversions.

Another paper on file (memo to members of parish council) from Marchant states that he has farmed Knotwood area since 1962. Built a house in 1969. You will see in yard our collection of World War II vehicles; my hobby is to restore them. Am interested in local archaeology and have found many sites in area over years. In field OS 92 I have found an old track; perhaps over centuries path was diverted to run as it does now through OS 90 instead of 92. with a sketch map. Also a comment at end that his address has always been Knotwood Farm, 'plant is Furtho pit' (apparently where he keeps old plant). Copy the plan.

DOVECOTE & CHURCH

Abbrey. Plac. (Rec. Com.). 4. Church 1194

Michaelmas 1194. Regarding the receipt of the chirograph between the abbot of St. Peter and Peter de Chamnet and William de Foro concerning the advowson of the church of Foro.

Rot. Cur. Reg. (Rec. Com.). I. 128 Church 1199

29 November 1194. The Bailiff of the Abbey of St Peter super Diva absents himself from the case against Peter de Kainneto and William de Foro concerning the chapel of Forro, which is in the hands of the king. The Abbott is summond to Westminster in 15 days time.

Rolls of Hugh de Welles 2 (Cant. And York Soc. 3). 129. Church 1226

1226. Institution of Alberimus de Purie to the church of Furtho on the presentation of William de Furtho and Ralf de Chedneto.

Cur. Reg. R. XV. 329. 356-7 Manor 1235

1235. William de Montecute states that the advowson of the church of Langebercg pertains to Forhow, but that its lands to Preston.

NRO, F.X 19 Manor 1338

22 Jan. 1338. William Starling of Schenele chaplain to Henry de Furtho and Sarah his wife. Manor of Furtho and advowson of church of Furtho with services of all free  tenants of the manor and all tenants for life, of nativi and their sequela etc etc, with remainder to William son of Henry and Sarah and Margaret his wife and heirs of their bodies. Remainder in default to Henry and his heirs.

Cal. Papal Reg. III. 110. Church 1344

May 1344 Letter of absolution to William Adamens Gobioun rector of Fuytho

NRO, F.X. 23 Manor 1349

May 1349. Attached to X.10 and X.12. Margar' widow of William de Furtho to Nicholas de Blisworth and John de Fortho chaplain of her manors of Furtho and Weston by Olney with advowson of Furtho church and appts, for their lives.

Cal. Pat. R. 1354-8. 597. Church 1357

1347. 4 September. Presentation of John Dekez to the church of Forthoo.

NRO, F.III.46 Manor 1357

6 Dec. 1357. John son of Henry de Furtho chaplain to Richard son of Richard de Caleshale. His manor of Furtho and advowson (large portion missing.)

Cal. Close R. 1361-4 513 Church 1363

1363 25 January. Memorandum setting out Geoffrey de Lucy’s claim to various manors (listed) and the advowsons of various churches, including Fortho, by right of an indenture made between Geoffrey de Lucy’s grandfather and William de Leyburne.

Valor Eccl. (Rec. Com.). IV. 328. Church 1535-6

1535-6 Deanery of Preston. The Rectory of Furthoo (Thomas Ball incumbent) is valued at: tithes and communal obligations £7  3s; Synodal dues and procurations for the archdeaconry of Northampton 3s. remainder £7; thence for tithes 14s.

p.330 The Rectory of Furthoo was appropriated by the Carthusian Priory of Coventry

Cal. Pat. R. 1569-72. 349. Other Estates 1572

1572. 8 March. Grant in fee simple to Richard Hill and William James of various lands and rents (listed), including Potterpirye, Cosgrave and Furthoo, given for a priest, an obit or lamp in the church there.

Bridges, i. 297 Manor 1639

By inq. In Court of Wards 15 Charles I, it appears that lordship of Furtho with advowson of church were in the hands of Sir Robert Banastre of Passenham.

NRO, F.XIII.59 (v) 1666 Local Government

A levy made 18 April 1666 for the relief of the poor and repair of the church at 3d per acre [for] demesnes and common meadow and 1.5d for arable land and leys and 1.5d per haigh for Notwood. Side heading: Furtho, Robert Johnson, overseer.

NRO, F.XIII.256 (1) Church 1675

Petition 12 April 1675 from numerous inhabs. of Potterspury. Furtho living is void by death of Mr Riall. Asks for preferment of Mr Newell our pious and painful minister. Well regarded in Potterspury and neighbouring towns. Also he needs the extra income from Furtho, since the income from Potterspury is so small, most being swallowed up by the impropriator. With 37 signatures.

F.XIII.256 (6)

Testimonial from rector of Passenham and other conc. John Mansell, schoolmaster of Beauchampton, recommending him as successor to Mr Riall, late rector of Furtho, deceased. 3 March 1674/5

Baker, ii. 158 Church Advowson 1675-1834

Advowson accompanied manor down to Edmund Arnold esq. who by will 1675 devised it to Jesus [College Oxford]. On presentation of Revd. N. P. Dobree in 1789 it was consolidated with rector of Wigginton (Oxon).

Cal. S.P. Dom. 1683-4. 219. Church 1684

1684 17 January. Letter of Secretary Jenkins to the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford: notes that ‘your parsonage of Furtho is now vacant’ and that a ‘good man’ should be presented.

Bridges, i. 297 Church 1720

Church, which stands on a small ascent, is dedicated to St Bartholomew, and consists of a body leaded and chancel tiled. At the west end is a low embattled tower, in which is only one small bell. The length of the church and chancel is 46 ft. The breadth of the church is 17 ft 10 in., and the breadth of the chancel 14 ft. The length of the tower is 15 ft and the breadth of it 18 ft.

The register bears date in 1696.

The church was built at the sole expense of Edward Furtho, the lord of this manor in reign of James I.

Right of patronage is in Jesus College, Oxford, to whom it was given by the will of Edmund Arnold esq. It is in the deanery of Preston.

On pp. 297-8 a list of patrons and incumbents.

Bridges, i. 298 Church 1720

MIs in church:

On a gravestone on south side of chancel is inscription in Latin: Here lies Edmund Arnold esq., formerly lord, under God, of this manor, who died 27 March 1676.

On north side of chancel, under an old arch, lies a marble, on which were the effigies of a man and his two wives, with a tablet at their feet, and a shield of arms at each corner, but these are now defaced. It is probably the monument of Anthony Furtho, who was twice married, and died in the first year of reign of Elizabeth I.

NRO, F.XIII.116 Arnold Charity 1748

Accounts and vouchers for 1748 include bill for work done on dovehouse by Thomas Lepper. Repairing the pigeonholes, tiling, plastering outside, and mason’s work.

John Alexander and William Church are tenants this year, still paying £266 p.a.

NRO, F.XIII.221 Church 1758

Slip of paper with transcript of Edmund Arnold’s MI and note that Thomas Leppar undertakes to lay down a new stone for £3 without any further charge to the trustees for any other matter. 31 May 1758

Baker, ii. 159 Church 1834

Church, dedicated to St Bartholomew, was rebuilt by Edward Furtho esq. in 1620 and consists of low broad tower cont. only one small bell, nave and chancel. Tower is 15ft long x 17ft 10in. wide; nave 25ft x 18ft; chancel 24ft 2in. x 14ft 15in.

Interior is paved with stone and pewed. Plain octagonal font faces south entrance. Tower, nave and chancel are of one pace (sic); nave communicates with each through an open arch.

Two mons. mentioned. On north side of chancel under low circular arch is a marble slab on which were brass figures about 2ft long of a man between his two wives, and a shield at each corner; probably intended for Anthony Furtho esq., and removed from the old church.

On marble slab on south side is mon. to Edmund Arnold esq., lord of this manor, who died 27 March 1676.

NRO, F.XII.106 Church 1834

16 Aug. 1843 Note that Revd John Williams Mason took possession of Furtho church. 20^th: various people came to view dilapidations, and Mr Badcock of Oxford came to put a price on land etc.

19 Oct. 1843. Archdeacon and rector of Stoke Bruerne came to view church.

F.XII.107

19 Feb. 1858 Letter from archdeacon of N’ton to clerk, asking trust for help with cost of repairs, pews, floors and roof, with the bell, are in a very bad state, but with a little expense might be made one of the nicest little churches in archdeaconry.

22 Feb. Reply, saying trustees will be sympathetic but not clear whether their trust allows them to use money for this purpose.

NRO, F.XII.107 Church 1848

19 Feb. 1858 Letter from archdeacon of N’ton to clerk, asking trust for help with cost of repairs, pews, floors and roof, with the bell, are in a very bad state, but with a little expense might be made one of the nicest little churches in archdeaconry.

22 Feb. Reply, saying trustees will be sympathetic but not clear whether their trust allows them to use money for this purpose.

10 July Exchange with archdeacon reported in which he accepts that trustees cannot apply funds of charity to church repairs.

PRO, HO 129/166/17 Church 1851

Furtho parish church. Total endowment £240, details unknown. No pew rents, fees or Easter offerings. 130 free sittings, 20 other places. 90 at evg service 30.3.51. Average: 50 pm. No Sunday School. The congregation varies according as Potterspury church is open or closed, at this time 150 is very common in summer afternoons when Potterspury is closed cannot correctly be ascertained as the rector is absent (semi-legible note). Sgd: 30.3.51: Theodrore C.B. Steeles, curate of Furtho, Potterspury Vicarage.

Whellan’s Dir. (1874). 567 Church 1874

Furtho church rebuilt 1620 by Furtho family: nave, cancel, tower cont. one bell. Restored throughout 1870, with Arnold Trustees being principal contributors. Reseated with open deal sittings, and a handsome pulpit of bathstone erected, together with a lectern and reading desk. Harmonium placed in chancel at expense of John Bird, under whose auspices restoration was carried out.

There is a cinquefoil headed piscina, mutilated, in chancel, on north side of which is an arch, uner which lies a marble tomb, on which were effigies of a man and his two wives, with a tablet at their feet, and a shield of arms at each corner, but these are now defaced. Supposed to be mon. of Anthony Furtho, who was twice married, and died 1 Eliz.

Living a rectory now worth about £300. John William Mason is incumbent, Revd Robert Emaus Crawley, vicar of Potterspury, curate in charge. Rectory consists of 96.0.29 of land allotted by incl. cmmrs. and modus of £20 7s 6d for Arnold estate.

Manor House is occupied by John Bird, farmer and churchwarden.

NRO, F.XIII.73 Church 1876-7

7 Oct. 1876. Vicar of Potterspury (as rector of Furtho) to clerk. If the rector wishes to build a house of residence, would trustees be disposed to allot a portion of land in lieu of tithe rent charge. Mr Bird will show the spot he thought would be suitable, also for labourers' cottages as well.

21 Dec. 1876. Same to same re same. Would trustees have any objection to give me some land, balance in money, in lieu of tithe rent charge. Site near the gate leading to Cosgrove. Would need to be satisfied about water supply first.

10 Jan. 1877. Same. Propose that trustees give me site, say 4a., and money, towards a rectory house in lieu of tithe rent charge.

13 March 1877. Rector asks for reply.

15 March. Rent charge of £31 10s, now £34, is worth £940 at 30 years' purchase. If you sell 4a. at £65 per acre that leaves balance of £700 due to me. But you can't build a house for £700 and Jesus won't help. Would it not suit trustees to buy advowson and build rector a proper house, taking rent charge towards it and giving rest. Dr Arnold did nothing for Furtho, but was taken ill before he could carry out his intention. Proposed site of rectory is too lonely, hardly safe to live there, unless trustees built a few cottages as well. With a sketch showing site for rectory to immediate east of church on north side of track leading to Cosgrove (called Cosgrove Way).

With a PS saying Kendal is dead. I rather have an idea that his estate (38a.) could be bought of the niece. Believe the trustees once thought of doing this.

30 March 1877. Rector to clerk. What is trustees' answer. Furtho church all but inaccessible in winter and I have got bad colds going there. Should trustees like to buy advowson, Jesus would be willing to sell: have a letter from principal of my college to this effect.

Kelly’s Dir. (1877), 300 Church 1877

Church appears to have been built in 1620, but the chancel is older; it was thoroughly restored in 1870 by the rector and the trustees of Arnold’s charity; the churchyard has also been planted with choice shrubs and trees by the rector.

Living is a rectory, value £141.

NRO, F.XIII.73 Church 1881

9 April 1881. Revd J. Chalmers, Furtho House, Stony Stratford, [Old Stratford] rector of Furtho to clerk. Will trustees help to improve or amend cart track which is only way up to Furtho church. Gravel can easily be got from rectory pit. At present journey is attended not only with much discomfort but with positive danger.

NRO, F.XII.23 Church Tithes 1890

Bundle of correspondence received by clerk to trustees, 1887.90, mostly routine or re cottages built at this time, but adding nothing to what is in minute book for same period. But does include angry exchange between outgoing and incoming incumbents of Furtho (Dr J. Payne the new incumbent, address Furthoe House, Stony Stratford; J. Chalmers, 22 Cambridge Gardens, Hastings, outgoing) re apportioning the tithes. Clerk has pencilled note: see apportionment act 1870 on one letter.

NRO, F.XII.22. Church 1891

In bundle of general in letters to clerk, 1891-1906, letter from Payne, rector, at Furthoe House, Old Stratford.  5 Jan. 1891, asking for financial help with running Church. Understand previous incumbent paid everything himself, but not everyone can afford to do this. Have an offertory at every service, but half those there are my own family. Mrs Bird has kindly agreed to continue paying for church cleaning herself

NRO minutes Arnold Charity 1917

10 Jan. 1917. Rector of Furtho asks for guinea towards repair of churchyard wall: granted. Also points out that east wall of dovecote has fallen down. Agreed to inspect and spend up to £20 if needed on dovecote.

11 April. Dovecote cttee reports that it is in rather bad condition. Builder reports that it will cost about £30 to repair. Left till next meeting: clerk to write to rector.

10 May. Agreed to spend £30 on dovecote but less if possible.

11 July. First builder unable to do work on dovecote for lack of labour. Shakeshaft to finish it.

Dovecote 1917

'The dove-cote, Furtho, Northamptonshire', Notes & Queries, new ser. vi. 96.7

Note with photo on dovecote. Stands in field to SW of church, circular building of local limestone, walls having a considerable batter, diameter outside at ground level about 18 ft 8 in., walls being about 4 ft 3 in. thick. Height to string course 11 ft 3 in. and from there to eaves about 3 ft. Moulding of this string course is bold and well designed, and is undercut to form a drip round building. Roof has been renewed and is covered with red tiles which are of a beautiful colour. Cupola at top formed of four wooden posts, sides being open, and also covered with red tiles. Two doorways, that on west 5 ft 5 in. high and 3 ft 4 in wide, with modern door; on south a second doorway 4 ft 9 in. high and 2 ft 7 in wide; no door and entrance is blocked with debris. Over this doorway is a large opening or window into building. Inside there appear to have been some 330 nests, but many of these were closed in 1917, when large part of wall was rebuilt. To commemorate this a stone has been inserted in east side:

THE LORDS OF FURTHO MANOR
REPAIRED THIS DOVE-COT TOWER A.D. 1917
R.S. MYLNE, B.C.L., RECTOR

Probably over 300 years old, great pity if it fell down. Recently a good portion of the wall on south has fallen down and a piece adjoining also in bad condition.

Trustees of Arnold's Charity main owner and lords, and dovecote belongs to them. There is a very find muniment chest at Browne & Wells for this charity with Edward Arnold, Furtho, on it brass headed nails, and on back date 1695. Three locks above date and hasp of centre lock very ornate.

Signed Ed., i.e. Major C.A. Markham FSA.

NRO, X2960B, Church 1917

Yardley Gobion Village Memories essay, 1958

13 Nearest bomb crater [WW2] was at Furtho; old disused church there used to store books. Until about 1917 afternoon services were held there, the last rector living near London and only coming to take the service at week-ends. Churchwarden and organist walked with other chrch members from Yardley Gobion across the fields.

NRO, F.XII.92 Manor 1919

7 May 1919. Agreement to lease to John Payne Barr of Upper Heyford, farmer. Lease for seven years from 29.9.19. Rent £318 for first three years, then £368.

Schedule at end from 1898 OS: 29, 33, 34, 30, 31, 50, 28, 27, 21, 26, 25, 39, 38, 48, 51, 52, 35, 225, 37, 55, 65, 67, 230, 70, 71, 64. Plantations not reserved to landlord (as they are in 1933): 53, 54a, 63.

Church 1919-21

For pps re order in Council of 1921 uniting Furtho with Potterspury cum Yardley

Church 1919-21

For pps re order in Council of 1921 uniting Furtho with Potterspury cum Yardley

FURTHO CHURCH ADVOWSON 1921

Jesus College, Oxford, 27 June 1997 (Dr Brigid Allen, Archivist). Docs. re Furtho consist of those listed of sheets already sent and three folders re College livings between the two world Wars. Check latter first.

Green manilla folder labelled College Livings and numbered 29A. Individual livings flagged within file.

Potterspury, Furtho flag etc starts with:

Jesus College, Oxford, File 29A contact: 31 May 1921. Eccl.Cmmrs (File 100,139) to Jesus. Union of Benefices Act 1919. Potterspury with YG V and Furtho V (sic). Proposed union. Sends draft petition to crown, in which Potterspury with Yardley desc. as Vicarage and Furtho as Rectory. Bishop's commissioners have approved. We have prepared scheme based on commissioner's report but with modifications. Potterspury living now full (A.P. Symes) but Furtho vacant. Symes has consented to become first incumbent of united benefice. Only one parsonage house will be left standing in united benefice, namely that belonging to P with YG and this shall become parsonage house of united benefice. Therefore recommend that P with YG and F be united to form United Benefice of Potterspury cum Furtho cum Yardley Gobion. Parish church of Potterspury shall be parish church of united benefice. Patronage shall be exercised alternately, with patron of Furtho to present first.

2 June 1921. Bursar to W.J. Morris. Please examine enclosed draft and report.

3 June 1921. Morris to Hazel. Yes, since it is what the commissioners, when I sat with them at Potterspury on 9 April, decided. 8 June 1921. Bursar to Eccl. Cmmrs. College approves. 16 July 1921. Eccl. Cmmrs to Jesus, enclosing notice saying that scheme was published 31 May 1921 to patrons and parishes concerned.

12 Nov. 1921. Letter from Bursar. Have had a letter from W.J. Morris stating that the vicar of the united livings of P, F etc has received promotion to a living in the dioc. Carlisle. Three livings amount altogether to about £310 p.a. and, acc. to Morris, considerable sums will have to be found quite soon to carry on the schools.

12 Oct. 1921. Browne & Wells (B. Montague Browne) to Jesus. I have a small sum in hand payable to rector of Furtho, but unaware of an appointment having been made. There was a project to unite with Potterspury: what is position.

13 Oct. Bursar to B&M. Eccl.Cmmrs 14 July approved scheme for union, with alternate presentation.

16 Nov. 1921. A.P. Symes, vicar, to Bursar. Have accepted another living. Under arrangement when Furtho was joined to this pa. Jesus have next presentation, that is this turn. Before I accepted other living I was in act of selling glebe at Furtho, this I hope to carry out before leave parish soon after Christmas, then it will raise income of living to about £230 p.a. At present I only receive about £80 net. Church council here, since they now have the power, would be grateful if you would place your nomination before them before presenting. 'We are strong Churchmen in this parish, & would like a man who would carry on the teaching that the parishioners are used to'. Have a sung Eucharist as main service, wear vestments etc. A man who would suit would be Rev. G. Feber, Harborne Hall Prep. School, Birmingham.

17 Nov. 1921. Bursar to Symes; acks. 16th

3 Dec. 1921. W.J. Morris, Abbey Lodge, Farthinghoe, Brackley to 'Hazel' (Bursar). For you to have this letter from my friend Paterson. Much as I like Bp of Peterborough I am dead against giving any by more patronage. I have written to Goldberg, former curate, good chap, to see if he is interested. Seems a sorry look out for anyone. Note at top: am sending another Furtho letter just arrived.

12 Dec. 1921. ?Principal to Morris. Thanks for letter and enclosures. Have you heard from former curate. Agree we should not give up any advowsons to bishop if we can help it. He has applied to college for living, holding out bait that if he gets patronage Ecc.Cmmrs will raise living to £300. Some fellows wanted to, but I postponed question till we see if we can get someone. Glebe at Furtho has just been sold for £2100, which will give income of over £110, and retiring incumbent says living would now be worth £230.

26 Dec. 1921. Symes to ? Principal. I have withdrawn my acceptance of the other living, so will remain vicar of Potterspury. A petition was sent to me signed by practically all adults of parish, both Nonconformist and Church, asking me to stay; after advice from bishop have withdrawn from Carlisle living. Pencil minute: I suppose we shall not be bothered about this any more?

9 Jan. 1922. Acid ack. of preceding: good deal of letter writing has been done which now process unnecessary.

27 Jan. 1922. Eccl.Cmmrs to Symes. Have again considered this living (Pott. cum Furtho cum YG) and are prepared to renew from 29 July 1921 temporary grant of £114 p.a. previous made in this case. This will be subject to conditions re benefices in private patronage set out in enclosed memo. Distinctly to be understood this is temporary only, an annual payment will cease immediately on any transfer of patronage. If transfer is to a public patron, grant will be made permanent. If it remains private and a private benefaction is made to cover half the grant, the other half will be made permanent. With a copy of Bursar of Jesus.

28 Jan. 1922. Bursar to Eccl.Cmmrs. Acks. preceding. You probably now that whole of glebe of Furtho, recently joined to Pott., has just been sold for £2100. This will substantially augment living, although it remains small.

3 Oct. 1923. Bursar to Crockford's. Enclosed list of college livings is correct, except that Furtho has been united to an adjoining benefice, itself the result of a union. Benefice is now Potterspury cum Furtho cum Yardley Gobion. College presentation is now alternate with Duke of Grafton. Furtho could still be listed separately, but is a vicarage, not a rectory.

Kelly’s Directory 1924, 94 Church 1924

Living in a vicarage, annexed to that of Potterspury, joint net yearly income £350, in gift of Duke of Grafton and Jesus College, Oxford, alternately. Held since 1921 by Revd. Allan Percy Symes, of Lincoln Jefferson University, USA, who resides at Potterspury.

NRO, F.XIII.248 General Topic 1928

Black and white postcard size photo of dovecote, in an envelope dated Oct. 1928.

NRO, F.XIII.249 General Topic 1938-40

5 Dec. 1938. Copy letter from Sec. of SPAS to Rev. R.N. Beasley, Potterspury Vicarage, enclosing Furtho report. Offers help with fundraising; asks who owns dovecote. 10 Dec. 1938. Beasley to clerk to trustees passing on request about dovecote.

12 Dec. 1938. Clerk's reply. We put dovecote in repair in 1917 and there is a stone let into building recording fact. We have no money to spend on dovecote and have to find money to repair farm. There was an interesting account of dovecote in Northants N&Q 1928 (vol. vi, no. 4) by late Major Christopher Markham.

10 July 1939. Sem-legible note from Northants. Archit. and Archaeol. Soc. to clerk: we will give £10 towards dovecote if you will. 25 Sept. 1939. Telephone message from Miss Wake. She has collected £26 towards estimated cost of £32 for repairs. Can trustees give rest.

10 Jan. 1940. Clerk to Miss Wake at Cosgrove. We will make a grant of £3, that is most we can find.

11 Jan. 1940. Miss Wake to clerk. Thanks, relieves me from finding rest myself. Would have been easy to raise had it not been for outbreak of war. Work has been well and truly done and I will send you copy of accounts.

NRO, F.XIII.249 General Topic 1939

Complete copy of Mercury & Herald, 21 July 1939, with front page story 'move to save ancient dovecote'.

Account book of last Furtho of Furtho shows that Jerome Evans, farmer of demesne, paid £7 in rent for field named after dovehouse in 1606. 'Village' is now just a disused church, farmhouse, cottage, ancient dovecote, old fishpond and mounds where houses stood. Office of Works has scheduled dovecote as ancient mon. and Northants. Archit. and Archaeological Soc. has promised grant of £10 towards estimated cost of £30 for repairs. Hoped to raise rest locally, since building so interesting. Offers of local limestone, carting and sympathy from local builder.

Refs. to dovehouse come from an account book 1604-19, rescued by a miller when a solicitor in a neighbouring county was having a clear out some years ago. Book loaned by miller to Miss Wake. Contains farm, estate and personal accounts. Dovecote belongs to Arnold Charity, who have repaired it once and whose funds are not intended for this purpose. Beneficiary parishes are Upper and Lower Heyford, Stony Stratford, St Gile's N'ton, Stowe Nine Churches and Weedon Bec; also grants to poor scholars at Merton.

Nov. 1938. Report from SPAR on Furtho church and dovecote. Church noted separately. Dovecote is a round building of rubble walling with series of stone nests on inside. Walls built with a decided entasis from ground floor are badly cracked through settlement and a large portion of facing has fallen away and undermined roof, and adjoining portion is bulged and likely to fall. Roof appears to be in good repair; overhangs walls and is covered with hand made tiles.

There is an inscribed 17th-century stone tablet in the wall of an adjoining farm building which is perishing and should be dressed with two or three coats of limewash in order to arrest decay.

Report approved by SPAR.

Note. Entasis: a slight convex curve in the shaft of a column, introduced to correct the visual illusion of concavity produced by a straight shaft.

NRO, F.XII.105 Manor 1941-2

17 Feb. 1941. Harold A. Rolls LRIBA, Leighton Buzzard, to clerk. Have been instructed to survey farm and report on repairs. Please send plan, which will save much time; am very short-handed. With tracing plan showing farm buildings, keyed to his report.
1: Open implement shed;
2 Granary;
3: Stable;
4: Open cattle shed;
5: Open cattle shed;
6: Small cow house;
7: Chaff-cutting and implement store;
8: Large cow house;
9: Small room next last;
10: Covered gateway and hovel;
11: Pigstyes;
12: Poultry houses etc;
13: Range of iron-roofed buildings;
14: Stable and coach house;
15: Open cattle shed etc in field.

1 April 1941. Tenant sent £116 rent for half year. Please speed up repairs; implements and machinery being damaged by rust and exposure, and not enough manure because animals could not stand under cover.

7 April 1941. Architect estimates repairs at £550.

13 May 1941. Tender from Shakeshaft at £352 10s. for works, and from Smith & Daniels, SS, £886 14s 6d.

1 Dec. 1941. Clerk to chairman. Shakeshaft have completed work and been given certificate for £300. Mr Weston is very pleased with work and considers they should be paid at once. Please sign cheque.

8 Jan. 1942. Architect to clerk. Am happy to issue final certificate.

Undated note from War Damage Cmmn enclosing cheque for £248 8s.

Church 1942

NRO, Peterborough Diocesan Records, Order in Council no. 242, 25 July 1921

Correspondence inside sealed and signed copy of order.

14 May 1942. ? Dioc. Reg. to A. Townsend, Yardley Gobion. As promised as visitation, have looked up papers re union of benefices in 1921. No details of income then given but stated that Furtho was worth £100 p.a. Dioc. Cals. 1908-21 give value as £100, prior to 1908 was £135. Do not know reason for drop, nor whether sum of £100 has been increased or decreased since union. But certainly whatever sum is involved it is part of income of Potterspury and has been since 1921.

NRO, Minutes Arnold Charity 1948

14 Jan. 1948. Clerk had written to Jesus re Beeches; they had passed letter on to Queen's as owners. Dovecote  reported out of repair: letter to Miss Wake to ask if NRS could do anything. War Ag. to clean pond at Furtho.

14 July. Resolved not to sign draft agreement with co. planning officer re dovecote.

13 Oct. Offer by Co. Council to put dovecote into repair in return for certain easements re access. Trustees consider they cannot grant any further access beyond existing, but will allow groups to visit by appointment.

NRO, F.XIII.215  General Topic 1949

Several letters of 1949 on this file re NCC taking dovecote into guardianship. Also Min. Works scheduling as ancient mon.

Deed of guardianship executed at April 1949 meeting of trustees.