Smithin Family - Birlingham
Updated – June 2020
This document describes the Smithin family from Pershore and Birlingham. These are the descendants of Thomas Smissen (born about 1570 in Tewkesbury) and his wife Margaret. We think the family are ultimately descended from the Smithsend family in Tewkesbury but we have not yet clearly identified the links.
St. James, Birlingham c.2000
There are only brief notes on those born after 1920. Most of the information is from public sources.
Contents
1. Early ancestors ...... 2 Thomas Smissen (c.1570) ...... 2 Eleanor Andrewes (b.1596) ...... 3 George Smissens (b.1598) ...... 3 Elizabeth Androse (b.1599)...... 3 Anne Androse (b.1601) ...... 3 Margery Androse (b.1604) ...... 3 Margaret Androse (b.1605) ...... 3 Thomas Smithin (c.1608-1670) ...... 3
2. Descendants of Thomas Smithin ...... 6 Enoch Smiton (d.1681) ...... 6 Nathaniel Smithin (1636-1684) ...... 6 Mary Smithin (b.1641) ...... 8 Samuel Smithin (d.1665) ...... 8 Hanna Smithin (d.1660) ...... 8 Sibila Smithin (c.1662-c.1684) ...... 8 Hester Smithin (c.1663) ...... 9 Benjamin Smithin (c.1645-1724) ...... 9 Joseph Smithin (1639-1718) ...... 9 Anne Smithin (1666-1739)...... 11 Elizabeth Smithin (b.1667) ...... 12 Thomas Smithin (1670-1732) ...... 12 Joseph Smithin (1713-1785) ...... 14 Thomas Smithin (1731-1746) ...... 17
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3. Joseph Smithin & Margaret Rickitts and their descendants ...... 18 Joseph Smithin (1761-1807) ...... 18 Benjamin Smithin (1791-1861) ...... 20 William Smithin (1793-1851) ...... 20 Thomas Smithin (1797-1843) ...... 21 Joseph Smithin (1789-1851) ...... 22 Anne Smithin (1826-1906) ...... 28 Sarah Smithin (1827-1903) ...... 29 Margaret Smithin (1832-1866) ...... 31 Mary Smithin (1835-1921) ...... 31
4. Joseph Smithin and Charlotte Butt ...... 33 Joseph Smithin (1829-1875) ...... 33
5. Descendants of Joseph Smithin & Charlotte Butt ...... 41 Joseph Smithin (1857-1930) ...... 41 Francis Smithin (1858-1937) ...... 41 Isabel Smithin (1860-1884) ...... 43 Sidney Smithin (1862-1929)...... 44 Sydney Smithin (1899-1982) ...... 48 Dora Smithin (b.1901) ...... 50 Winnie Smithin (1903-1975) ...... 51 Kate Smithin (1862-1937) ...... 52 Maud Smithin (b.1864) ...... 52 Hubert Smithin (1864-1942) ...... 54 Hubert Smithin (1905-1919) ...... 59 Charles Smithin (1906-1984)...... 59 Mary Smithin (1910-2005) ...... 59 John Smithin (1908-1953) ...... 59
1. Early ancestors
Thomas Smissen (c.1570). Androwes als Smissen or Andrews. Possibly the grandson of William Smithsend (Smyssen) of Tewkesbury. 'Als' stands for also or alias. A Thomas Smithsend alias Androwes son of Thomas Androws butcher became a freeman of Tewkesbury in 1603.
Thomas may have been the father of Thomas Smithin (b.1608).
A Thomas Andrews was mentioned in the Tewkesbury churchwardens' accounts in the period 1586- 1587: 'for Thomas Androwes wifes roome 5s'
The list of Andrews and Smissen names in the Gloucestershire IGI suggests a Smithsend-Smithin- Andrews link but it is not conclusive.
George Androwes christened 6 Aug 1598, Tewkesbury, father Thomas Androwes or Smizzens Eliono Andrewes, christened 17 Oct 1596, Tewkesbury, father Thomas Andrewes Margreate Androse, christened 15 Sep 1605, Tewkesbury, parents Thomas Androse and Margreate Margerit Andorose, christened 7 Aug 1604, Tewkesbury, parents Thomas Andorose and Margret Anne Andras, christened 8 Nov 1601, father Thomas Andras Elizabeth Andrewes, christened 10 Feb 1599, father Thomas Andrewes
Thomas Smissen married Margaret in about 1595 and they had seven children: George, Elinor, Elizabeth, Anne, Margaret, Margery, and Thomas but the surnames vary between Andrews and Smissen. If they were the ancestors of this branch they moved to Pershore in about 1608.
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Eleanor Andrewes (b.1596). Also Eliono. The daughter of Thomas and Margaret. She was christened on the 17th October 1596 in Tewkesbury.1 She married a Mr Glover in about 1620. She was mentioned in the Will of her brother Thomas.2
George Smissens (b.1598). Andrewes or Smizzens. The son of Thomas and Margaret. He was born on the 6th August 1598 in Tewkesbury.3 George married Catherine Oliefer on the 6th May 1621 in Tewkesbury.4
The list of taxation for Bote Money for Tewkesbury in 1638 mentions a George Andros of Barton Street. There was also a George Andres son of Thomas Andres butcher who became a freeman in Tewkesbury in 1625.
Elizabeth Androse (b.1599). The daughter of Thomas and Margaret. She was christened on the 10th February 1599 in Tewkesbury.5 An Elizabeth Andrews married Robert Mouten in Tewkesbury on the 29th June 1619; this may be Elizabeth.6
Anne Androse (b.1601). The daughter of Thomas and Margaret. She was christened on the 8th November 1601 in Tewkesbury.7
Margery Androse (b.1604). Also Margerit. The daughter of Thomas and Margaret. She was christened on the 7th August 1604 in Tewkesbury.8 She did not marry and was perhaps not fully competent as in his will her brother directed that her legacy was paid to her sister Margaret on her behalf.9
Margaret Androse (b.1605). Also Margreate. The daughter of Thomas and Margaret. She was baptized on the 15th September 1605 in Tewkesbury.10 She may have married a Mr Bennet.11
Thomas Smithin (c.1608-1670). The son of Thomas and Margaret. He was born in about 1608. He married Anne in about 1640 and later in about 1663, Sibila. A Hearth tax return for Birlingham dated between 1662 and 1670 shows that he had an average house.12
Thomas Smythsen hath in his house three fire hearths
Thomas made a Will in 1670.
Will of Thomas Smithin 1670 I Thomas Smithin of Birlingham in the County of Worcester, Yeoman, being infirm of body yett of good and sound memory praysed be God, doe the first day of September in the Yeare of our Lord According to the account now used in England one thousand six hundred and seventy make ordaine and declare this my last will and Testament in manner and form following.
First. I commend my soule unto God that gave it when it shall please him to take it from this frayl body and my body to the earth from whence it was taken to bee decently interred att the discretion of my Executors herein hereafter named. And as touching that Estate and earthly substance which the Lord in mercy hath [permitted] I will and dispose as followeth.
Imprimis: I give and devise unto my wife Sibila Smithen all the moveable goods that were her own before I marryed with her that now are left and twenty pounds in money upon consideration of the [---] that she brought to mee and five pounds that I received towards the discharge of a bond of thirty pounds of Mr Smith in Gloucester Tanner which is [---] on the backside of the bond. And allsoe all the beere and cider except the hogshead of cider and the fourth part of the cheese and also halfe the firewood and other wood now about the house and the fourth part of the Hempe that is now about the house. This is my will if soe bee that my Inventory amount to threescore and ten pounds besides what I have given to my wife otherwise, that out of what [---] hath given her shee shall pay to my Executors what my Inventory wants of amounting to threescore and ten pounds I before mentioned. And allsoe I give to my wife that bond of twenty five pounds unpayed that I have of Mr Smith Tanner in Gloucester.
Item. I give to my cousen Jane Smith twelve pounds of hemp or flax whith sheevile [shovel].
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Item. I give and bequeath unto my son Nathaniel 10 shillings and sixpence
Item. I give and bequeath all my wearing apparell both woolin and limsey [woollen and linen mix] amongst all my children equally to be divided except my daughter Sibila and my daughter Hester.
Item. I give and bequeath to my Sister Elenor Glover forty shillings if shee be living after my decease.
Item. I give to my Sister Margery forty shillings to bee att her owne disposal if she bee living after [my decease] and to be payed to my Sister Margarett [Benitt] to be given to my Sister Margery as she thinks best if she bee living.
Item. I give and bequeath to my sone Joseph twenty shillings if he be living after my decease.
Item. I give and bequeath unto my daughter Sibila halfe my land that I have in Birlingham after mine and my wife's decease if shee bee then living.
Item. I give and bequeath to my daughter Hester the other part of my land in Birlingham after mine and my wife's decease if shee bee then living.
Allsoe my will is that if [then] my daughter Sibila or my daughter Hester die before my selfe or my wife that then that part I dispose to my son Benjamin and if they both die before my wife and my selfe the other part amongst the rest of my children.
All the residue of my goods Chattells and Peronall Estate my debts and funerall expenses being discharged I give and bequeath unto my sone Enoch, my son Benjamin, my daughter Mary and my daughter Sibila and my daughter Hester and them I make constitute and appoynt full and joynte Executors of this my last will and Testament and my loving friends Thomas Pridye and Aaron Ward overseers to the same hereby revoking and annulling all my former and other wills and testaments and doe declare to be my last will and testament.
In Witness whereof I have hereunto putt my hand and seale the day first above written.
Signed sealed and Publyshed in the presence of Aaron Ward, Jane Smith her mark
Thomas Smeethen.
Thomas died in Birlingham on the 1st September 1670.13 The Will was proved on the 15th September 1670 by his son Benjamin.14
An inventory taken when he died shows that his estate was worth £90 3s 2d.15
Inventory of Thomas Smithin 1670 The goods [---] and chattels of Thomas Smithin late of Birlingham in the County and diocese of Worcester, deceased. Taken and appraised the thirteenth day of September 1670 by Richard Mason Thomas Taylor Thomas Priddy and Aaron Ward as followeth viz.
Imprimis. The [feoedents] wearing apparrell and money in his purse ...... £10 Item. Eight [beasts] and two calves ...... £11 Item. Corne in the Barne of all sorts ...... £23 16s Item. Two Geldings and one mare ...... £9 Item. For five piggs ...... £1 13s 1d Item. For two payres of [---] two dung carts and two [long] carts ...... £3 Item. For wood about the house ...... £1 Item. For the Hay ...... £3 Item For four payre of geares, one plow, one payre of harrowes and three pannells ...... £1 Item. For the plow timber and Bills, Pitchforks, one table board two [redgers] one churne, two redgers. [---] potte two bottles and other utensyills in the Cowhouse ...... £1 10s
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Item. The Corne in the house of all kinds ...... £9 Item. In the Kitchen. One brasse pott, two Caldrons, one warming pan five dishes of pewter, one salt, one [pouringe], two saucers one frying pan one payre of gridirons, one spitt ...... £2 Item. Fifty seven cheeses in the house ...... £2 6s 8d Item. In the Kitchen more cheeses and one hogshead ...... 7s Item. In the Day House one kneading trough ...... 1s Item. In the Parlour fourteen books ...... £1 1s Item. One joyned bedstead and five hogsheads one being full of Cyder ..... £2 Item. In the Chamber over the Parlour, one joyned bedstead and one joyned chest ...... £1 4s Item. In the [toploft] two bedsteads and one coffer ...... £3 Item. In the corner chamber, two flock bedds, five bolsters, two pillows five payre of sheets, two table cloths, three blanketts, one Coverlet one Canvas one sett of Curtaines and vallens, two napkins and one pillowcase ...... £3 Item. [---] some drest and some in the Rough ...... 3s Item. For four baggs and one [---] ...... £1 Item. For things omitted and not mentioned ...... 2s Summa Totalis ...... £90 3s 2d
Thomas' first wife Anne died on the 25th January 1662 and was buried in Birlingham.16
Thomas' second wife Sibila was mentioned in the 'Church Presentments' of the 22nd September 1674 by the Birlingham churchwardens.17 Sibila appeared in a list of Sectaries, that is, non-conformists and was called a 'reputed Anabaptist'. Jane Smith her husband's cousin was listed as a Sabbatarian.
Church Presentment - Birlingham 1674 The Presentment of James Chaslitt and Thomas Biddle Churchwardens of the Parish of Birlingham to the Right Reverend Father in God WalterLord Bishop of Worcester at his Lordshipps Visitation Sept. 22nd 1674.
Tit. 1. Our Church is somewhat out of repair in the Tiling and Pavement, but we are repairing it. The Chancel is somewhat out of repair.
Tit. 2. Some of the out-housing of the Parsonage is out of repair, which the Minister is repairing.
Tit. 3. Our Minister is a Priest Episcopally ordained according to the Laws of the Church of England. Constant in Preaching and Catechising, conformable in all things to the Rights and orders of the Church of England and of a good grace for sober consolation.
Tit. 4. We present Hester the wife of Anthony Scarlett who has not made her publick thanksgiving to God in the Church after her delivery from the Perill of childbirth.
Tit. 5. We have a clerk of hours & life & consolation chosen by the Minister.
Tit. 6. We have no school master, nor any that Practis Physick Chirugery or Midwifery.
To the Additional articles we present.
1. The Church as before.
2. Sectaries (reputed Anabaptists)
Anthony Scarlett & ux.
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Thomas Priddie Senr. Edward Roberts the Smith & ux. Sybill Smeeton widow. (Sabbatarians) Catherine the wife of Robert Nicholls Jane Smith
3. We have no Papists in the Parish 4. No debauched or Scandalous persons 5. No excommunicated persons
6. We present Anthony Scarlett who hath two children, one about the age of Two years the other about half a year not Baptized by the Minister nor according to the order appointed in the Liturgy of the Church of England so far as we know.
7. Conventicles have been kept in the house of Sybbil Smeeton widow but the Teachers Names we know not.
James Chaslitt Thomas Biddle
The Churchwardens did consult with me when they drew up this presentment, Walter Allen de Nafford
Sibila must have moved to Oxenton (near Tewkesbury) after she was widowed. An entry in the parish register in 1684 mentions her burial.18
Ano Dni 1684
Recd an Affidavit concerning ye Intermt of Sybil Smithin of Oxenton wid. (who was buried privately wthout ye office of ye Church) yt ye sd person was buried in woollen according to ye statute
Thomas and Ann had seven children: Enoch (d.1681), Nathaniel (1636-1684), Samuel (d.1665), Joseph (1639-1718), Mary (b.1641), Benjamin (1645-1724), Hannah (d.1660).
Thomas and Sibila had two children: Sibila (1662-1684), Hester (b.1663).
2. Descendants of Thomas Smithin
Enoch Smiton (d.1681). The son of Thomas and Anne. He was buried in Birlingham on the 23rd October 1681.19 He was mentioned in his father's Will of 1670.
Nathaniel Smithin (1636-1684). Also Smiton. The son of Thomas and Ann. He was christened at Pershore Holy Cross on the 7th January 1636.20 He was mentioned in the Church Presentments for Birlingham of the 1st July 1684.21
Likewise we present Nathaniel Smiton & William Godsaw for refusing to come to church.
Church Presentment - Birlingham 1684 A Presentment made by the Minister and Churchwardens of Birlingham to bee delivered unto the Lord Bishop's Visitation holden at Evesham up the first day of July Anno Domini 1684.
Imprimis. The Church Chancell grounds about and churchyard are in order and in good repair.
The Rector's house likewise in very good repair.
We present John Trebell and his wife for not frequenting their Parish church.
Likewise we present Joseph Perks and his wife for refusing Communion with the Church.
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Likewise we present Nathaniel Smiton and William Godsaw for refusing to come to Church (and frequenting Conventicles).
Alsoe we present Edward Roberts the Smith and his wife they have long stood excommunicated and care not to submit to the Court. His wife teacheth school the youth of the Parish while there is another more and conformable who it willing to undertake it.
It. We present William Richardson and his wife who stand excommunicated for Articles Exhibited against them to prove their marriage.
It. We present George Clifford and his wife who refuse communion with the Church and can show noe reason for it.
We present William Compton for not coming to divine service,
The Presentment of Birlingham since the last visitation 1684 We Thomas Priddie and Benjamin Smithen Churchwardens of the Parish of Birlingham have nothing to present but all is well [---] what is already presented.
Nathaniel made a Will on August 13th just before he died and was buried in Birlingham on the 23rd August 1684. His Will did not mention a wife or children so it looks as though he was not married; he also mentioned a brother in law William Peart. William Godsaw his friend, and William Peart were the witnesses.
William Godsaw was the father of Ann Godsaw who married Nathaniel's nephew Joseph.
Nathaniel left his house and land jointly to his brother Joseph and Joseph's son Thomas.22
Will of Nathaniel Smithin 1684 In the name of God Amen. I Nathanniell Smithin of Birlingham being sick and weak in body make this my last will and testament in manner and form following.
Imprimis: I do give up my soule to God hoping through the merritts and passion of my Saviour Jesus Christ to be raised into heaven. And my body to the earth in the hope of the power of Christ my Saviour to have a joyful resurrection. And as for my earthly estate I dispose as followeth.
First of all I doe give to my brother Joseph Smithin and Thomas Smithin son of the said Joseph all that my houses and land that I have in Birlingham. Out of which said estate I do order my brother Joseph to pay to my Brother Peart upon the account of his fower children fower pounds apeece of good lawful money of England to be paid the five years when paid.
Item. I do [---] to give to my Brother Benjamin's three children fower pounds apeece of like lawful money to be paide by my brother Joseph the next year following.
Item I give to my sister Mary twenty shillings every year if she liveth out of the said estate at Birlingham and to her fower children fower pounds apeece out of the aforesaid estate.
Item. I give to my brother Joseph's two daughters five pounds apeece out of the same estate. Notwithstanding my desire if that my Brother shall pay [---] give first that he shall pay every year fower pounds till finished.
Item. I give to my Brother Benjamin tenn pounds.
Item. I give to my sister Mary tenn pounds.
The which sums I doe order my Brother Joseph Smithin to pay whom I have appoynted whole Executor and at whose discretion I leave and do leave mangement of funerall.
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Sealed with my Seale according to the date first above written and in the year of our Soveraine Lord the King [within] [---].
Sealed and acknowledged before us: Thomas Russell William Godsaw William Peart
Nathaniell Smithin (His mark)
Benjamin's three children mentioned were Joseph, Elizabeth and Mary.
An Inventory was taken after Nathaniel died.23
Inventory of Nathaniel Smithin 1684 A true and [---] inventory of the goods, cattel and chattles of Nathaniel Smithin late of Birlingham in the County of Worcester [---] and appraised by us whose names are subscribed the twenty eighth day of August Anno Domini 1684.
Imprimis. His wearing apparrell and money in purse ...... £8 Item. Woole ...... 22s 1d Item. Sheepe ...... £8 Item. [---] of all sorts ...... £3 10s 1d Item. One coffer and other severall things in [lumber] not [---] ...... 1s 8d Item. Money due owing to the bonds upon [---] and with [---] ...... £36 1s Summa Totalis ...... £52 1s 10d
Thomas Greenwood Thomas Kings, George [---], James [Checkits] His mark
Mary Smithin (b.1641). Also Smithson. The daughter of Thomas and Ann. She married Thomas Godsaw (b.1635) of Red Marley D'Abitot, Gloucestershire, in Birlingham in 1663 (either on the 8th June or the 4th December).24 They had at least four children who were all alive in 1684 as they are mentioned in her brother Nathaniel's will. Two of the children may be Samuel Godsaw (b.1676) and Sarah Godsaw (b.1675) who were born in Red Marley D'abitot.25 26
Thomas Godsaw was the uncle of Ann Godsaw who married Thomas Smithin; Mary's nephew.
Nathaniel left Mary ten pounds in his Will of 1684.
Samuel Smithin (d.1665). The son of Thomas and Anne. He was buried in Birlingham on the 29th September 1665.
Hanna Smithin (d.1660). Also Samanthe? The daughter of Thomas and Anne. She was buried in Birlingham on the 19th February 1660/1. From the register it is not clear whether Samanthe and Hanna were the same person - both were buried on the same date.27
Thomas and Sibila had two children
Sibila Smithin (c.1662-c.1684). The daughter of Thomas and Sibila. Thomas made special provision in his Will for Sibila and Hester which suggests they were the young children of his second marriage to Sibila. Perhaps Sibila was the oldest as she was mentioned first in the Will.28
Sibila married William Peart at Pershore, St Andrew's in about 1679. They had four children William (b.1679), Hester (b.1680), John (b.1682), and Richard (b.1683) all born in Pershore. Sibila was William Peart’s second wife and we think that she had died by 1684.29
William Peart (1654-1719) was born on the 4th of October 1654 and his father was Thomas Peart (c.1625). We think that William married several times including Anne in about 1676, Sibila in about 1679, and finally to Mary after 1684. His other children (not by Sibila) were Thomas (b.1677) and
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Edward (b.1686). His Will was proved in 1720 but he does not mention any Smithin relatives. He says at one point: ‘I give to my son Edward if he refrains from being a soldier, 1 guinea.30
Hester Smithin (c.1663). The daughter of Thomas and Sibila.31
Benjamin Smithin (c.1645-1724). Also spelt Smithsend. The son of Thomas and Ann. He married Elizabeth Tribble (c.1650-1727) in Birlingham on the 4th June 1673 (or possibly 1675); the marriage was by banns.32 33
See separate document for this branch of the family.
Smithin graves – Birlingham, May 2010
Joseph Smithin (1639-1718). Also Smythen. The son of Thomas and Ann. He was christened on the 3rd November 1639 at Pershore Holy Cross.34
Joseph married Anne in about 1665.
Joseph described himself as a Yeoman when he made a Will in 1706 and an inventory taken when he died shows that his estate was worth £168-10 shillings. He left 5 shillings to each of his children and his five grandchildren. Joseph was buried in Birlingham on the 20th August 1718.35
The Will was proved on the 13th September 1718.36
In 1949 there was a headstone near the church on which the name Smithin could just be read, this may have been Joseph's.
Will of Joseph Smithin 1706 In the name of God Amen. The twenty second day of May in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and six, and in the fifth year of the reign of our Sovereign Lady Anne by the Grace of God Queen of England Scotland France and Ireland, defender of the Faith. I Joseph Smithen of Birlingham in the County of Worcester, Yeoman do make and appoint my last will and testament in manner and form following, that is to say.
First and principally I recommend my soul into the hands of God my creator hoping to be saved by the merits of Jesus Christ my Saviour; and my body to the earth to be decently buryed at the discretion of my Executrix herein after named in sure and certain hope of a joyful resurrection at the last day. And as for those worldly goods which it hath pleased God to bless me with, I order and dispose as following.
I give unto my only son Thomas Smithen the sum of five shillings, and also one bed, bolster, bedstead, curtains, and all things unto the said bed belonging; which bed he shall liberly so make
Page 9 of 68 choice of according to his discretion allowing only my Executrix first to make choice of one which according to her discretion she shall think fit and best.
I give unto my daughter Anne Palmer the sum of five shillings.
I give unto my daughter Elisabeth Lunn the like sum of five shillings.
And likewise unto my five Grandchildren the sums of five shillings apiece.
And as for all my worldly goods, Chattels, Cattle, Stock & Tools in my shop, and other movables whatsoever I give and bequeath them unto my beloved Anne whom I hereby constitute and appoint my Sole Executrix of this my last will and testament. Provided nevertheless, and my will and intent is that if my Executrix herein before named shall at any time after my decease become marryed to another man, that then she shall within three months after such marriage is solemnized pay over and above the sums above named, the several sums hereinafter mentioned. That is to say the sum of ten pounds unto my said son Thomas Smithen, likewise the sum of ten pounds unto my said daughter Ann Palmer, likewise the sum of fifteen pounds unto my said daughter Elizabeth Lunn, likewise the sums of one pound apiece unto as many of my Grandchildren as shall then be living, whether of those that are already born, or those that may be hereafter born unto my son or daughters.
In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal (this being first underlined, in the first line, fourteenth, fifteenth, and twenty sixth) the day and year above written.
Joseph Smithin Signed sealed and published in the presence of us
George Bascheleor Benjamin Smithin (his mark), Joseph Severn
An inventory was also taken in 1718.37
Inventory of Joseph Smithin 1718 A true and just inventory of all goods, chattels, and cattel of Joseph Smithin late of Birlingham deceased taken on the 29th day of August 1718 by Samuel Palmer and Benjamin Smithin.
[--- ] Wearing apparel and money in purse ...... £5 One bed and bolster and blankets and all thereto belonging in the lower chamber ...... £2 1s A clock, 2 tables, and six chairs in the hall ...... £2 2s 6d One bed and all that belongs to it a chest and chairs in the new chamber ...... £3 5s One bed and all that belongs to it and a [press] cupboard in room over the hall ...... £2 10s Over the kitchen 2 beds and all that belongs to them ...... £1 14s Over the brewhouse 1 bed and all that belongs to it ...... 15s 1 pair of sheets, 4 table cloths, 1 dozen napkins ...... £2 10s In the cheese chamber, cheese to the value of ...... £4 2s In the brewhouse 2 furnaces and other instruments for brewing ...... £2 2s 6d In the dayry house a cheese press and other necessarys for dairy ...... 19s In the kitchen one table, one dripping pann 2 spitts with Brass and Pewter ...... £2 0s 6d In the buttery barrels and other lumber ...... £2 2s 6d 5 horses and 4 colts ...... £27 13 cows and 8 heifers ...... £35 5s 50 sheep and 10 piggs ...... £9 18s A waggon, 2 carts, plows & harrows ...... £10 5 pairs of gloves ...... £2 Spades, sheafpikes, and baggs ...... 7s Wheat, barley, [peas], and [---]...... £42 2s Hay ...... £8 Tools in the Shopp ...... £3
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...... £168 10s
Joseph's wife Anne made a Will in 1718. She left 10 shillings to each of her six grandchildren by her daughters Ann and Elizabeth and Twenty pounds to her grandson Joseph. She made her son Thomas the sole executor.38
Will of Ann Smithin 1718 In the name of God Amen. I Ann Smithin of the Parish of Birlingham in the County of Worcester Widow, being aged but of sound mind and memory thanks be to God, do this 8th day of October Anno Domini 1718 make and appoint my last will and testament in maner following.
I commend my soul into the hands of Almighty God my creator, hoping to be saved through the meritts of Jesus Christ my saviour, and my body to the earth to be decently buryed att the discretion of my executor herein after named. And as for my worldly goods with which it hath pleased Almighty God to bless me, I give as followeth
Unto my daughter Ann Palmer the sum of one pound. Item unto my daughter Elizabeth Lunn the like sum of one pound. Item unto the three children of my daughter Ann Palmer the sum of 10 shillings each. Item unto the three children of my daughter Elizabeth Lunn the sum of 10 shilings each. Item I give unto my Grandson Joseph Smithin the sum of 20 pounds to be payable to him when he shall attain unto the age of 21 years, if my son Thomas shall be before dead and my daughter in law Ann Smithin marryed again.
Lastly I appoint my only son Thomas Smithin sole executor of this my last will and testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto sett my hand and seal the day and year above written.
Signed sealed published and declared in the presence of Jos. Severn, Ric. Severn Eliz. Severn Junr.
Ann Smithin X
On the 6th of December 1722, after she died, an inventory showed that the value of her estate was £138-2 shillings. The inventory was made by Samuel Palmer and Robert Lunn her sons-in-law.39
Inventory of Ann Smithin 1722 A true and perfect Inventory of all the money, goods, chattels, and cattel of Ann Smithin of Birlingham Widow lately deceased.
[--- ]Wearing apparel and ready money ...... £5 Item. The furniture and goods of the house ...... £24 15s Item. Five horses or mares and two colts ...... £25 2s Item. Nine cows and three heifers ...... £23 Item. Sheep ...... £1 15s Item. Piggs ...... £2 5s Item. A wagon and two carts ...... £8 4s Item. Grain in the barn ...... £42 1s Item. Hay ...... £6 ...... £138 2s
Joseph and Ann had three children: Anne (1666-1739), Elizabeth (b.1667), Thomas (1670-1732).
Anne Smithin (1666-1739). Also Smythen. The daughter of Joseph and Anne. She was christened on the 8th April 1666 at White Ladies Aston.40
She married Samuel Palmer (1671-1732) on the 22nd June 1690 in Birlingham.41 They had three children all born at Birlingham: Anne (b.1692), Samuel (b.1695), and possibly Hannah (d.1767).42 43 44
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Anne died on the 21st February 1739 aged 73 and was buried in Birlingham next to her husband.45
Here also lieth Anne ye wife of Samuel Palmer who departed this life February 21st 1739 in the 73 year of her age.
Samuel's parents were possibly Samuel Palmer (b.1642) and Mary Green of Areley and they married in about 1670.46 Samuel's father was a churchwarden at Birlingham in 1692 whose name is inscribed on one of the five church bells.47
Francis Bahrhlew Samuel Palmer churchwardens, William Bagley made mee 1692
Samuel assisted with the Inventory of his father in law's estate in 1718 and with the Inventory of his mother in law's estate in 1722.
Samuel died on the 25th April 1732 aged 62 and was buried in Birlingham. 48
Here lieth the body of Samuel Palmer who departed this life April 25th 1732 in the 62 year of his age.
Elizabeth Smithin (b.1667). Also Smithen. The daughter of Joseph and Anne. She was christened on the 10th November 1667 at White Ladies Aston.49
Elizabeth married Robert Lunn (b.1667) on the 25th May 1698 at Defford.50 They had three children all born at Defford; Robert (b.1700), Elinour (b.1703) and Elizabeth (b.1707). Robert's father may have been George Lunne who was a Churchwarden at Birlingham in 1695 and whose name is inscribed on one of the bells.
George Lunne and John Cubberley Churchwardens 1685
Elizabeth was mentioned in her father's Will of 1706 and her mother's Will of 1718. Robert was involved with the Inventory of his mother in law's estate in 1722.
Thomas Smithin (1670-1732). Also Smithon or Smithsene. The son of Joseph and Anne. He was christened on the 29th January 1670 at White Ladies Aston.51
Thomas signed the Burial register as Churchwarden at Birlingham in 1710.52
Thomas married Anne Godsaw on the 21st April 1712, at Birlingham.53
Anne was born in Birlingham on the 26th January 1674.54 She had a brother William (b.1676) and sister Sarah (b.1673).55 56 Her father was William (1641-1691) and her mother was Anne George (d.1676); they were married on the 18th July 1672.57 58 59 William Godsaw signed the Parish registers as churchwarden in Birlingham in 1679.60 Anne's grandfather was Thomas Godsaw (c.1615) and her uncle was another Thomas Godsaw (b.1635) who married Mary Smithin.61 Her other grandfather was John George (c.1590). The George’s were quite well off as they are described as having 7 fire hearths on the Tax rolls dated between 1662-1670.62
Thomas and Ann were mentioned on an indenture of October 1719.63
Indenture between Henry Baylis of Chaceley, co. Worc. co. Glouc., Sarah, his wife, Thomas Smithsene ( Smithin of Birlingham), co. Worc., yeoman, Ann, his wife, and John Somerfield of Chaceley, yeoman, declaring the uses of a fine of a moiety of a messuage and land in Powick, co.Worc., of a messuage called Woosehall and land in Strensham, co. Worc., and of land in Birlingham.
Thomas (described as a Yeoman) bought some land from a Mr Roberts of Birlingham on the 9th March 1722.64
Anne died in 1725 and was buried on the 25th May 1725 in Birlingham.65
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Thomas, aged 59, married a second time to Esther Tayler from Eckington on the 7th June 1729 at Wyre Piddle. He was described as a Blacksmith at Birlingham.66 They had a son Thomas born in 1731.
Esther was born in 1695 and was also known as Hester. She was described on the Marriage licence as a 'Maiden at her own disposal' so both of her parents had died by the time she married Thomas.
Thomas died on the 28th September 1732 and was buried in Birlingham.67 An inventory taken when Thomas died in 1732 gave the value of his estate as £202-10 shillings.68
Inventory of Thomas Smithin 1732 A True and Perfect Inventory of all and Singular the Goods Chattels and [Credits] of Thomas Smithin late of Birlingham in the County and Diocese of Worcester taken and appraised by we whose hands are hereunto subscribed.
Imprimis. Wearing Apparrell and Money in Purse ...... £5 Item. In the Kitchen 14 Dishes of Pewter and 20 plates ...... 12s One sack, 2 spitts, 3 pairs of fire tonges two fire shovels, 2 gridirons, 2 pair of fire [sticks], one frying pan, one [---] dish handiron and dripping pan, one steel, with many other little things about the fire place ...... £1 One basen and flaggon, 2 Candlesticks and one Tinpan ...... 3s Books, one table, joined stools and chairs one Rack with Trenchers and a cupboard ...... 16s In the Hall. A clock, Looking Glass, 2 tables, one pair of [---] six chairs and [---] with other little things ...... £2 7s In the Parlour, one pair of bedsheets with Curtains and Vallens One bed and bolster, 3 blankettes, an old set of Curtains, 2 coffers two boxes, a table and other little matters ...... £2 16s In the Buttery. 4 hogs of cyder and [---] two other Barrells empty .... £4 10s In the Dairy, a Cheese press and Barrells, Churn, bowls and Milk pans, sheets, cheese [---], Bottles and many other things ...... £3 In the Brewhouse. Two [furnaces], Bottles, one Gries pan, a pot and other little things ...... £3 15s In the Bedroom. A pair of bedsteads, a bed, 2 bolsters a pillow, 2 blankettes one set of Curtains and Vallens, 2 pairs good sheets a dozen and a half of Napkins, a cupboard cloth, 2 tablecloths, a chest a trunk, two boxes one little table, 5 chairs and other little things £7 8s 6d In the Cheese Chamber. 96 Cheeses and Cheese shelves, one Table corn and apples and other things...... £6 16s In the room over the Hall. A pair of bedsteads and beds, two bolsters 2 pillows, 2 blankettes, seven pair of sheets, 7 table cloths, one odd sheet one hanging press, two boxes, a close stool, one trunk and two coffers ...... £6 12s Over the Kitchen and Buttery. Two pair of bedsteads, two beds, bolsters pillows, blankettes and other things in the [---] and other lumber with wheat and [---], one coffer and the stairhead ...... £11 2s Seven Barrells, one [bowl] and two tubs ...... £1 10s Two Horses and Mares ...... £26 6s 10 Cows, 3 Heifers, 4 yearlings ...... £45 One Waggon, 2 Tumbrils, 2 plows one pair of Harrows, Geares, Saddle pannells, cord, ropes and leather...... £19 Pigs ...... £4 [---] Sheep and Lambs ...... £3 0s 10d Wood, poles, Boards [axels] and other plow timber a saddle and 4 [saddlecloths] ...... £4 Two [fanns], [---] ...... £1 1s One pair of scales and weights [---] ...... £4 5s Horse troughs, Pigs Troughs, [---], bogers, and [---] for the horses .... £1 7s
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Shop tools and things in the Shop ...... £5 5s Wheat in the barn and in the Rick ...... £10 Barely in the barn ...... £17 15s [---] in the Barns ...... £15 Hay ...... £14 A long cart and other things omitted ...... 10s ...... £202 10s
Thomas and Ann had one child: Joseph (1713-1785). Thomas and Esther had one child: Thomas (1731-1746)
Joseph Smithin (1713-1785). The son of Thomas and Anne. He was baptised on the 25th May 1713 in Birlingham.69
Joseph married Sarah Dix (1715-1753), by licence, at Birlingham on the 18th December 1746. Sarah was aged 31.
Joseph gradually expanded the Smithin estate in Birlingham. In 1740 he bought some land called Nest Croft and in 1744 and 1747 he bought some more land from Thomas Harris and George Bayliss. 70
Joseph sat on the Inquest Jury of the enquiry into a fatal rail accident on the Bristol Birmingham line near Defford station. Two people were killed and several injured.71
Joseph was mentioned on an indenture of 1st April 1747.72
Indenture between William Hopkins of Fladbury, co. Worcester, yeoman, Mary, his wife, and Joseph Smithin of Burlingham irlingham, co. Worcester, yeoman, declaring the uses of a fine of messuages land and appurtenances in Strensham, co. Worcester
Joseph also leased land to George Baylis in April 1747.73 74
Lease for a year from Joseph Smithin of Burlingham Birlingham, co. Worc., yeoman, to George Baylis of Strensham, co. Worc., yeoman, of a fourth part of a messuage called Woosehill and lands in Strensham
Release from Joseph Smithin of Burlingham Birlingham, co. Worc., yeoman, to George Baylis of Strensham, co. Worc., yeoman, of a fourth part of a messuage called Woosehill and lands in Strensham, in exchange for premises in Burlingham
Sarah died, aged 39, in 1753 and was buried in Birlingham.75 There is a memorial in Birlingham.76
Here lieth the body of Sarah wife of Joseph Smithin. She departed this life June 5th 1753 aged 39 years
Joseph's second wife was Mary Smithin (1732-1821) his second cousin. They were married on the 15th September 1760 at Birlingham.77
By 1770 Joseph was the High Constable for the Upper Division Pershore and was mentioned in two cases at the Worcester Quarter sessions (the details are not clear).
Smithin Joseph, 49a, of Birlingham Gentleman, Upper Pershore Division, vice, Palmer Hatch Smithin Joseph, 273a, Upper Division Pershore, Samuel Hackett of Pershore, vice, Joseph Smithin deceased.78
In 1770 the High Constables themselves were also in trouble.79
George Richards William Browning William Greaves Joseph Roe Joseph Smithin, William Yarnanton Francis Holland Thomas Heakes, James Horniblow George Winton Richard Wilkes
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High Constables of the several divisions in this County for neglecting to levy the penalty of five pounds per man in lieu of every private militiaman directed to be raised in this County by the several Acts of Parliament now in force. Ordered that the High Constables do show cause why they shoud not stand committed for the offence aforesaid. Constables heard by John Thorneloe, Gentleman their advocate, and Mr Cox as Counsel for the Solicitor of the Treasury in support of the motion. The Court do adjudge that the said High Constables have shewn significant cause to this court why they should not stand committed.
A map of Birlingham of 1774 shows three large areas of land belonging to Joseph Smithin and two or three small strips nearer the village also labelled with his name including Withey Walk which was still part of the Smithin estate in 1890.80
In 1776 Joseph bought or received some land in Trust from Elizabeth Grevile
And the said William Palmer Knight further alleges and represents to us that by another indenture bearing date the tenth day of October one thousand seven hundred and seventy six [1776] made between the said Elizabeth Greville of the first part and the said John Woodward of the second part Edward 'Morgan' (therein described) of the third part and Joseph Smithin of Birlingham aforesaid Gentleman of the fourth part. The said messuages or tenements garden ground and premises were duly assigned by the said Elizabeth Grevile unto the said Joseph Smithin his executors administrators and assigns for the residue of the said term of five hundred years upon trust for the said Edward 'Morgan' his heirs and assigned to be assigned and disposed of as he or they should desire and in the meantime to 'afford' the freehold and inheritance of the said premises.
Joseph made a Will in 1780 and he appointed William Claridge and probably his cousin Benjamin Smithin (b.1739) of Severn Stoke as Executors and Trustees as his son Joseph was not yet 21.81
Will of Joseph Smithin 1780 I Joseph Smithin of Birlingham in the County of Worcester, Gentleman do make publish and declare this my last Will and Testament in Manner and form following (that is to say) I give and devise unto my good friends William Claridge of Birlingham aforesaid Gentleman and Benjamin Smithin of Severn Stoke in the said County of Worcester, Gentleman. All my lands, Tenements and Hereditaments whatsoever situate and being at Birlingham aforesaid or elsewhere. To hold unto the said William Claridge and Benjamin Smithin and their heirs To For and upon the several Uses Trusts Intents and Purposes hereinafter mentioned expressed and declared of and concerning the same (that is to say):
Upon Trust that they the said William Claridge and Benjamin Smithin or the Survivor of them or the Heirs of such Survivors do and shall out of the Rents Issues and Profits of my said Lands Tenements and Hereditaments devised to them as aforesaid raise an Annuity or clear Yearly Sum of Four pounds of Lawful Money of Great Britain and pay the same by four quarterly payments in the Year unto my Wife Mary for and during the term of her natural life in Case she shall so long continue my Widow but not otherwise, the first payment thereof to be made within three months next after my Decease; and in Case my said Wife shall not think it proper to reside and live with my Son Joseph that then they the said William Claridge and Benjamin Smithin or the Survivors of them or the Heirs of such Survivors do and shall out of the Rents Issues and Profits of my said Lands Tenemnets and Hereditaments devised to them as aforesaid raise one Annuity or clear Yearly Sum of Ten Pounds and pay the same in like manner as the said Four pounds is above directed to be paid, unto my said Wife for and during the Term of her Natural Life and in Case she shall so long continue my Widow but not otherwise.
And I do hereby give unto my said Wife full power and Authority in Case the said Annuity which shall be payable to her as aforesaid or any part thereof shall be behind or unpaid by the space of Twenty One days next after either of the said Days or Times of Payment thereof, to enter into and Upon the said Lands, Tenements and Hereditaments devised as aforesaid or any part thereof from time to time as often as the same shall happen and distrain and the Distress and Distresses then and there found to appraise and sell as the law directs in Cases of Distress for
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Rent and out of the Money to arise by such sale to satisfy the same Annuity and the Arrears thereof together with all Costs and Charges attending such Distress.
And upon further Trust that the said William Claridge and Benjamin Smithin of the Survivors of them of the heirs of such Survivors do and shall from and immediately after my said Son Joseph shall have Attained his Age of Twenty One Years and at his Request by Good and Sufficient Conveyances in the Law, Grant release and convey all my said Lands Tenements and Hereditaments devised to them as aforesaid unto him my said Son Joseph his Heirs and Assigns for ever or unto such other Uses and in such other manner as he shall direct, Subject to the payment of the same Annuity as shall be payable to my said Wife as aforesaid. And in Case my said Son Joseph shall happen to die before he shall have attained the said Age of Twenty One years then my Will is and I do declare that the said William Claridge and Benjamin Smithin and their Heirs shall stand and be seized of all my said Lands, Tenements and Hereditaments devised to them as aforesaid to the Uses hereinafter mentioned (that is to say) to the Use of my said Wife for and during the term of her Natural and from and immediately after her Decease to the Use of my own right Heirs for ever.
I give and bequeath unto my said Wife during such time as she shall be my Widow the use of such one fourth part of my Household Goods and Furniture (Except my Plate) as my Executors hereinafter named shall think proper for her. I Give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Ann (Wife of John Rock of Cleeve Prior) three Guineas to be paid to her within Six Months next after my Decease.
I give and bequeath unto the said William Claridge and Benjamin Smithin their Executors and Administrators All my Stock of Cattle, Corn, Grain Implements of Husbandry Goods Chattels and other my Personal Estate not herein before by me disposed of To hold them upon Trust that they my said Trustees and the Survivor of them his Executors or Administrators do and shall pay and apply such part thereof as they shall think proper unto and to and for the Use of my said Son Joseph until he shall have attained the his said Age of Twenty One Years and from and immediately after he shall have attained such Age, Then I give and bequeath the same to him to be at his own Disposal Provided and I do declare that the said William Claridge and Benjamin Smithin their Heirs Executors or Administrators shall not be answerable or accountable for any loss in placing out a Interest any Money they may receive under this my Will or in any other Act Deed or Transaction in and about the Performance the Trusts hereby in them reposed without their Wilful Neglect or Default nor one of them for the other of them and that it shall and may be lawful to and for the said William Claridge and Benjamin Smithin their Heirs Executors and Administrators respectively to retain in their hands and reimburse themselves out of my said Personal Estate or out of the Rents and Profits of my said Lands, Tenements or Hereditaments devised to them as aforesaid all reasonable Costs Charges and Expenses which they may respectively pay or expend in or about the Execution of the Trusts hereby in them reposed.
And lastly I do nominate constitute and appoint the said William Claridge and Benjamin Smithin joint Executors of my Last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof I have to this my last Will and Testament contained in this and the preceding sheet of paper set my Hand and Seal (to wit) my Hand at the bottom of the said preceding sheet and my Hand and Seal to this last Sheet of Paper the Nineteenth Day of December in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred and Eighty
Joseph Smithin
Signed Sealed Published and Declared by the said Testator Joseph Smithin as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who in his Sight and at His Request and in the Presence of Each other have subscribed our Names as Witnesses.
John Drury John Bidford, William [Whittell]
Joseph was mentioned in the Will of Edward Dix (his first wife's brother) in 1783.
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Joseph died on 30th July 1785.82 There is a footstone marked ‘J.S’ for him in Birlingham but no headstone.83
Mary was buried in Birlingham on the 4th November 1821, aged 89.84 We think that she was buried next to her husband as there is a footstone next to his labelled 'M.S'.85
Joseph and Sarah had one child: Anne (1753-1814) Joseph and Mary had one child: Joseph (1761-1807).
Ann Smithin (1749-1814). The daughter of Joseph and Sarah. She was christened at Birlingham on the 16th April 1749.86 87
Ann married John Rock of Cleeve Prior on the 6th January 1771 at Norton and Lenchwick.88
Her father left her three guineas in his Will of 1780; he died in 1785.89
I Give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Ann (Wife of John Rock of Cleeve Prior) three Guineas to be paid to her within Six Months next after my Decease.
John Rock was born in 1746.
Ann and John were mentioned in the Will of her uncle Edward Dix in 1783.
I give and bequeath unto my niece Ann wife of John Rock the sum of one hundred pounds to be paid to her by my Executor hereinafter named within twelve months next after my decease without interest for her [own] sole separate and private use and disposal independant of her present of any other taken husband and not subject to his control debts or engagements.
We think that John and Ann Rock owned and farmed what was later called Top Farm. The farm passed to their son John Rock (b.1781) and later to his daughter (born about 1815) who possibly married a Matthew Lunn. She must have inherited the farm when John Rock (junior) died in about 1869. The farm seems to have had several names over the years.90
Ann died on the 30th July 1814 aged 61 and her husband John died several years later on the 2nd February 1828, aged 82. They are buried together at St. Andrews, Cleeve Prior.91
In memory of John Rock who died 2nd of February 1828 aged 82 Also of Ann his wife who died 30 July 1814 aged 61
Anne had a daughter Anne Smithin born on the 6th June 1770.92 John and Ann had two children. John Rock (b.1781), Ann Rock (b.1780).93
Ann Smithin (b.1770). The daughter of Anne. She was born on the 6th June 1770.94 She is probably the daughter of John Rock and Ann Smithin but before they were married in 1771.
Ann married John Lunn on the 23rd January 1794 in Birlingham.95
Thomas Smithin (1731-1746). The son of Thomas and Esther. He was baptised in Birlingham on the 9th July 1731.96
Thomas was apprenticed as a Blacksmith in 1745.97
Thos Smithin of Kempsey Worce to Wm Shearwood of Pirton BlackSmith, £5 5s
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Thomas drowned, aged 14, whilst skating on Pirton Pool (a small lake near Pirton) on the 14th February 1746. There is a memorial at Birlingham.98
Here lieth the body of Thomas son of Thomas Smithin by Hester his wife (late of this Parish Birlingham). 14th day of February 1746. Aged 14 years.
As I on Pirton Pool did rashly slide The brittle ice gave way I sunk and dyed In vain the sad spectator strove to save Me from my fate and this untimely grave But now I rest in hope always to sing Celestial Anthems to my God and King
The Smithin family gravestones and Thomas’ grave were commented on in 1876.99
Worcester Journal, Saturday 23rd September 1876 Worcester Diocesan Architectural and Archaeological Society … Remounting their carriages the party next drove through a sucession of beautiful rural scenes, the weather continuing most propitious, to Birlingham Church.
The Rev. R.R. Duke conducted the party through the beautiful rectory gardens to this edifice, which is a modern structure in the pointed style with the exception of the old square tower which has been preserved. The church is spacious, and consists of nave with side aisles, with chancel, in which in an eastern window fileld with rich stained glass, and the whole interior is deserving of high commendation in the arrangements. The seats are open, and the rector exlained that he had assinged the poorer part of his congregation to sit nearest to the pupil eastward, and this plan was found most satsifactory. The Normal chancel arch of the former structure has been converted into a lich gate to the churchyard, and looks well in that position. In the south aisle is a mural brass of the 17th century, representing one of the Harewell family, and Margaret his wife, widow of Richard Sheldon of Spetchley. Many of the Smithin family are buried in the churchyard, and on one of their gravestones is the following inscription in memory of Thomas, son of Thomas Smithin, who was drowned on the 14th February, 1746, aged 14.
The inscription could still be read clearly in 1996.
3. Joseph Smithin & Margaret Rickitts and their descendants
Joseph Smithin (1761-1807). The son of Joseph and Mary. He was baptised in Birlingham on the 8th January 1761.100
Joseph was the Executor of the Will of Edward Dix, the Uncle of his half sister Ann, in 1785.101
And all the rest residue and remainder of my [ready] Money Goods Chattels Securities for money and other my personal estate of what nature or kind [here] and wheresoever, I give and bequeath unto Joseph Smithin the younger, son of Joseph Smithin of Birlingham aforesaid, Gentleman. And do hereby nominate constitute and appoint the said Joseph Smithin the younger sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament.
Joseph married Margaret Rickets (1766-1836) by licence on the 28th May 1788 at Birlingham.102
Oath of Joseph Smithin (1788) Appeared Personally Joseph Smithin of the Parish of Birlingham in the County and Diocese of Worcester, Yeoman. And being Sworn upon the Holy Evangelists alleged and made Oath as follows. That he is of the Age of twenty three Years and upwards, a Batchelor and intends to Marry Margaret Rickets of the Parish of Birlingham aforesaid aged twenty years and upwards a Spinster, with the Consent of Richard Jenkins and John Drew Guardians of the said Margaret Rickets duly appointed by the Will of the late John Rickets her father deceased. Not knowing or believing any lawful Let or Impediment, by reason of any Pre Contract, Consanguinity, Affinity, or any other Cause whatsoever to
Page 18 of 68 hinder the said intended Marriage, and he prayed a Licence to solemnize the same in the Parish Church of Birlingham aforesaid, in which Parish the said Joseph Smithin further made Oath that he had his usual abode for the space of four Weeks last past. Joseph Smithin
Also appeared personally the above named Richard Jenkins and made Oath that he together with the above named John Drew are the Testamentory Guardians of the said Margaret Rickets duly appointed by the Will of the John Rickets her late Father deceased, and that they are both consenting to the above mentioned intended Marriage of the said Margaret Rickets with the above named Joseph Smithin. Richard Jenkins
Let a Licence pass as prayed the said Joseph Smithin and Richard Jenkins being first sworn before me R Baty Surrogate.
Margaret's father was John Rickets a miller at Birlingham and her mother was possibly Mary Hunt of Wyre Piddle.103
Joseph was involved in raising a mortgage on some land and property in Birlingham with a William Manley in 1796.104
28th March 1796. Mr Joseph Smithin to Mr William Manley. Demise of premises at Birlingham for security of £200.
Assignment of Mortgages between Mr William Manley and Mr Joseph Smithin to Mr Joseph Horsman 27th August 1798.
Joseph was also a tenant of land in Eckington owned by Thomas Rock and by Mary Ricketts.105
Land tax assessment 1798 Proprietor: Mr Thos Rock Tenant: Joseph Smithin Residence: Birlingham, Worcester Year: 1798 Volume: 2 Proprietor: Mary Richetts Tenant: Joseph Smithin Residence: Eckington, Worcester, England Year: 1798 Volume: 2
Joseph is listed in a poll book as a freeholder in Birlingham in 1806.106
Joseph died on the 19th November 1807, aged 46, and was buried at Birlingham on the 23rd November 1807.
His death was reported in the Athenaeum magazine in 1808.107
Mr. Smithin, farmer. He was sitting at dinner in perfect health, and expired without a word or groan (June 1808)
Joseph's headstone is next to that of his father’s first wife Sarah.108 109
In memory of Joseph Smithin. He died on the 19th day of Novr. 1807 aged 46 years
Administration was granted to Margaret Smithin and sworn on the 7th May 1808. The value of Joseph's personal estate was under £600.110 111 112 113
7 May 1808. Joseph Smithin late of Birlingham in the County of Worcester. Administrator - Margaret Smithin of Birlingham, Relict.
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His death is also listed in the register of Death Duties.114
Death Duty registers index 1796-1811 Name: Joseph Smithin Residence Place: Birlingham, Worcestershire, England Death Date: Abt 1808 Record Date: 7 May 1808
Margaret was listed as a Farmer at Birlingham in an 1820 Trade directory for Worcestershire.115
Margaret died, aged 68, and was buried in Birlingham on the 31st May 1836.116
Birlingham in 1820 Birlingham, 3 miles from Pershore, containing 70 houses, and 353 inhabitants.117 Barnard William, miller Baylis John, maltster Broomhall John, tailor Claridge Will, farmer Clemens Jame, farmer Collins Wm, wheelwright Dufty William, farmer Ferris William, glazier Luders Rev. Mr Porter T. C. Esq. Porter Benj. Esq. Risdon Benj. gent. Smith Frances, gardener Smithen Margaret, farmer Taylor Richard, farmer Woodward Wm, farmer
Joseph and Margaret had four children: Benjamin (1791-1861), William (1793-1851), (1797-1843), Joseph (1789-1851).
Benjamin Smithin (1791-1861). The son of Joseph and Margaret. He was baptised on the 21st January 1791 in Birlingham.118
Benjamin and his descendants are covered in a separate document.
William Smithin (1793-1851). The son of Joseph and Margaret. He was baptised on the 14th March 1793 in Birlingham.119
William was mentioned in the Worcestershire Quarter sessions in January 1817.120
Three geese stolen from William Smithin, Pershore Holy Cross who followed footmarks -Thomas Hemus Constable of Stoulton, searched house of William Tustin, Stoulton, labourer, & found 3 geese in the oven: Tustin says 'The Devil had bewitched him to do it'.
William was living in Church Street, Birlingham in 1841, possibly lodging with (or next door to) a family called Mance.121
1841 Census Church Street, Birlingham William Smithin, age 45
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At the 1851 census William was lodging with the Mance family.122
1851 Census Birlingham, Worcestershire Charles Mance Head, age 49, married, Farm Labourer, born Cookham, Worcestershire Mary Mance Wife, age 52, married, born Charlton, Worcestershire William Mance son, age 28, unmarried, Farm labourer, born Birlingham John Mance son, age 23, unmarried, Farm labourer, born Birlingham George Mance son, age 18, unmarried, Farm labourer, born Birlingham Sarah Mance daughter, age 16, unmarried, born Birlingham Charles Mance son, age 13, Agricultural labourer, born Birlingham Mary Mance daughter, age 9, Scholar, born Birlingham William Smithin, age 57, unmarried, Gentleman, own interest, born Birlingham
William died age 58 and was buried in Birlingham on the 21st November 1851.123
Thomas Smithin (1797-1843). The son of Joseph and Margaret. He was born in 1797.
At the 1841 census, aged approximately 40, he was living, on his own, in Church Street, and described as of Independent means.124
Thomas died on the 31st May 1843, aged 46, and was buried in Birlingham on the 3rd June 1843.125 126 There is a memorial in Birlingham.127
Praise on tombstones doth bad ambition feed Let every man to his own way take heed For what I was and what you are The day of judgment doth declare
Probate was granted on 4th November 1843 and the death appears in the death duty registers.128 129
Birlingham in 1855 Birlingham is a small, retired village and parish, almost surrounded by the river Avon, in the Upper Division of the Hundred of Pershore, from which place it is distant about 3 miles S.S.W., 6 E. from Upton, 11 S.E. from Worcester, about a mile N.E. from the Eckington station, and about the same distance E. from the Defford station of the Birmingham and Bristol Railway. It contained in 1851 a population of 370 inhabitants, and an area of 1210 statute acres.130
There are several delightful residences in this parish, amongst which we may mention the elegant mansion of the Misses Porter; the Court House, occupied by Mrs. E. H. Risdon; and the residence of Mr. Joseph Woodward.
The Church, dedicated to St. James, is a very handsome stone structure, which, with the exception of the tower, was rebuilt during the last century. The tower is probably of the eleventh or twelfth century. There are the remains of several Saxon arches in the interior, and the windows in the chancel contain some fine specimens of ancient stained glass. The living is a Rectory. Rev. Robert E. Landor, M.A., Rector; Mr. William Hancocks, Clerk. Service - 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
The Parochial Schools are supported by the Misses Porter. Miss Hancocks, Mistress. Average number of scholars, 30.
Charities - There are eight Almshouses, endowed by the late Mr. Porter, for poor parishioners of Birlingham. There have been also several sums of money left for the benefit of the poor, which are distributed annually.
Landor Rev. Robert E Rector, Rectory Porter The Misses Phoebe and Ann, The Mansion Risdon Mrs. E. H, Court House
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Woodward Mrs
Attwood Abel, shopkeeper Attwood Esther, shopkeeper Bradley John, carrier to Worcester Brotheridge Mrs. S. E, Sub-Postmistress Butt John, victualler and shopkeeper Clements Mrs. Sarah, farmer Dufty William, market gardener Etheridge James, boot and shoe maker Goodall James, butcher and farmer Hancocks William, builder and Parish Clerk Pitcher Thomas, farmer and gardener; and at Defford Procter Richar, miller and corn merchant, Nafford Mills Sherring James, bailiff to Mr. J. Woodward Skinner William farmer, Upper End Smith Francis, beer retailer and market gardener Smith William, tailor Smithin Joseph, farmer Summers Samuel, carpenter and hurdle maker Turbeville Giles tailor, Gravelly Hill Woodward Josh, farmer; and at Badsey
Post Office - Mrs. S. E. Brotheridge, Sub-Postmistress. Arrival, 8 a.m.; despatch, 5 p.m. Carrier - To Worcester, John Bradley, Sat., 6 a.m.
Joseph Smithin (1789-1851). The son of Joseph and Margaret. He was baptised in Birlingham on the 28th December 1789.131
Joseph married Ann Proctor (1800-1850) in Pirton on the 26th December 1825.132 Ann was born in 1800 and was the daughter of John and Eliza Proctor.
Joseph added to the estate by various land deals in 1816.133
Conveyance of Messuage and Lands at Birlingham purchased of Mr Gillam and others and deeds of exchange with Mr Smithin, 2nd July 1816.
Exchange of messuage and Lands between Thomas Chinnall Porter Esq, Joseph Smithin of Birlingham, and Joseph Horsman.
Apparently Joseph was receiving the better land in the exchange (Stock hill field and Hawkes Meadow) and also paid £150 as part of the arrangement. This was about 7 acres in total.
Several indentures in the period 1828 to 1848 suggest that Joseph was gradually expanding the estate.134
24th May 1828 - purchase or lease of land where Avonside was eventually built 6th October 1829 - purchase or lease of land (details are not clear) 21st and 22nd June 1838 - purchase or lease of Clarke's Orchard 30th December 1848 - purchase or lease of land from Mr and Mrs Noakes in Birlingham next to his own fields
In 1834 there was an extensive fire at the farm which led to a court case in Worcester.135
Worcester Journal Thursday 15th May 1834 Incendarism Our readers will recollect the night of the 28th ult., a fire, no doubt caused by an incendary, broke out in a barn belonging to Mr. W. Woodward, Birlingham, near Pershore, in this county. We lament to say that on Friday night another fire of a similar description occurred at Birlingham, on the premises of Mr. Smithen. It commenced in a large Dutch barn, filled with wheat, and the flames
Page 22 of 68 communicated to a wheat rick near; both the barn and the rick were burnt down, and one hundred and fifty bays of wheat destroyed. Circumstances afterwards transpired which led to the suspicion that two brothers named Tovey had caused both fires; they were in consequence apprehended and examined before the Magistrates at Pershore who committed them to the county gaol, for further examination on Monday. One of them is not above 18 or 19 years of age. The conduct before the Magistrates was ill calculated to create an impression of their favour.
The case came to court a few months later.136
Worcester Journal Thursday 24th July 1834 Charge of Arson The next prisoner put to the bar was James Tovey, aged 19, charged with having on the 12th of May, set fire to a stack of wheat, the property of Mr. Joseph Smithin, of Birlingham. Mr. Justice opened the case for the prosecution, and Mr. Alexander was requested by the Judge to act for the Prisoner.
Mr. Smithin stated, that he had been in his yard as late as 10 o’clock on the night of the 12th May. At about twelve o’clock he was roused from his sleep by a cry of fire, and on looking out saw a Dutch barn on fire at the top, and soon after the roof fell in; it had a considerable quantity of wheat in it. A cart house and wheat rick caught fire soon after.
Nearly all the inhabitants of the village came to assist in putting out the fire, but witness did not see prisoner or his brother there; the prisoner and his wife lived about 200 yards from the witness’s house; the prisoner’s brother and his wife lived in the same house; a footpath passed near the farm yard, round which there is a stone wall about four feet high; about 3 in the morning, witness went with a constable and some neighbours to the prisoner’s house. John Tovey’s wife went in before them; witness remained outside; he saw the prisoner the evening before the fire; he had then a smock frock on and a straw hat; six weeks before prisoner’s brother had used some angry expressions to witness; prisoner had helped to reap for him last year, but had not worked for him this.
Cross examined by Mr. Alexander. Between the Dutch Barn and the rick there was some straw; left the barn about 7 when the men had finished loading some wheat; did not know whether he had seen that straw between 7 and 10; the men rack up the horses between 8 and 9; the stable is at the opposite end of the yard; there were 6 or 7 houses near his – the nearest about 20 yards; 3 or 4 of them are between his and Tovey’s; some other of the villagers were absent besides the Tovey’s, but none of them lived so near as they did.
Wm. Smith, a constable, stated that the engine which came to Mr. Smithin’s must pass within 7 or 8 yards of prisoner’s house; witness went to the Tovey’s house; John Tovey’s wife went in before; witness followed her upstairs; James slept on a landing place – John in a room beyond, in which was a window that looked towards the fire; the partition of the room divided the window; he heard John’s wife, when at the bottom of the stairs rouse the prisoner; witness found James nearly dressed; he asked what witness wanted, and was told that he was suspected of causing the fire; his wife said she could clear him for he was in bed by 8 o’clock; the witness took prisoner into custody; while going to Pershore, he said they all supped together about eight and went to bed soon after. He mentioned some persons of the neighbourhood who, he said, were pretty good masters, but all the rest were a d__d set of fellows together; I suppose they want to hang me, and if they do I’d as leave be hanged today as tomorrow; the’ve spite against me. He afterwards said, before he went before Magistrates, ‘If I had thought you would have told anything, I would not have said anything about it’.
Cross examined. When witness was first alarmed by the cry of fire, the flames made it as light as day; did not know whether there were curtains in Tovey’s room; could not say whether he’d faced the window, which was in further end; it was very small; he had seen John Tovey’s wife at the fire; her husband been seen at the fire about ten minutes before.
William Clements stated that he went with last witness to Tovey’s house; witness said to James Tovey that he ought to be ashamed to be in bed, when his neighbour’s premises were on fire; he
Page 23 of 68 said he did not hear of it or he should not, and that he and his brother supped with their wives at eight.
Cross examined. There was no candle nor fire at Tovey’s; the curtains were not drawn; James Tovey’s room had not half the window.
Wm. Smith deposed, that at about 3 o’clock John Tovey came to the fire; he said ‘this is the first I ever heard of it’; he assisted with the buckets. Thos. Warrell, (who lives near Mr. Smithin’s, deposed, that on the night of the fire he went to the Avon to put down some night lines for eels; this was about half past 9; he returned in about an hour up Mr. Woodward’s orchard to a gate which leads into the road; this gate is about halfway between Tovey’s and Mr. Smithin’s; when he got to the gate he heard some footsteps, and hid himself till the person came up; it proved to be James Tovey, who appeared to come along the road from Mr. Smithin’s to his own house. He passed about nine yards from witness; he wore a smock frock and straw hat; he passed on and went home.
Cross examined. When he saw James Tovey it was not very dark; it was a clear night; did not know whether there were any more passing along the road, which leads from Pershore; had no clock or watch but heard a neighbour’s clock strike nine before he went; had not set any lines since; had not taken those away that he had set; had often set lines before; he lived in a parish house.
Re-examined. He mentioned next morning that he had seen James Tovey.
Wm. Smith, constable, in reply to a question by the Court, said, he had heard of the eel lines before the Magistrates, but had never been to look if they were where last witness stated.
Mr. Doughty stated that John Tovey had, on the night of the fire, supped at this house at 7, and went away about half past; the distance to his house was about 200 yards.
A statement made before the Magistrates by the prisoner was produced by Mr. Heath, and read. It merely stated that he was in bed about half past 8, and did not get up till constable came.
John Swift, who immediately before this trial had been convicted of stealing a watch at Kidderminster was now called up as a witness against the prisoner. Several of the Jury said they would not believe him on his oath. The Judge said, they had better hear him. He had had Swift tried before this trial that they might know his character, and what credit was due to him.
Swift deposed, that on the 9th of this month he and Tovey were walking up and down the yard in the prison; they were talking about the trials, and he asked Tovey how he thought he should get on, adding that if he was found guilty he was sure to be hanged. He said he hoped they would hang him if they found him guilty; he was glad his brother was out on account of his children, as one was plenty to suffer for it; witness asked him if he and the man whose property was burnt had ever fallen out; he said no but his brother had; he afterwards said he did not care for any body but the man who said he saw him come from where the rick was, and swore to his straw hat and smock frock; that man, he said, ought not to have told of him, as he helped him to dig in his garden every night. Witness aked him why the Constable went after him rather than any body else; he said it was because he did not get up; he had heard the engine and he partly guessed what was the matter. At another time the witness asked him how the stack was set on fire; he said it was done with embers ground off a fire stick; he then described where the rick, barn &c. stood and he said there were 40 load of Lammas wheat in the rick.
He added that between 1 and 2 he saw fire break brightly out; he then went to bed. Witness said he had not seen Mr. Lavender (the Governor of the prison) until Sunday Morning, when he told him what Tovey had said. Witness had never heard anything but from Tovey’s own lips; he had never seen Mr. Smithin.
Cross examined. He had told nobody what he had heard from the Wednesday till Sunday; had not an opportunity before to tell Mr. Lavender; had seen the officers 2 or 3 times a day; there were other prisoners in the yard, but witness and prisoner only walked together.
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In reply to a question by the Judge, Mr. Heath said prisioner was examined twice, and it was well known that Warrell was a witness. Mr. Lavender said the fire might have been talked about in the yard; Swift saw him twice everyday.
The prisoner said he had never said five words, to Swift, who had stated what he had in hopes he would thereby serve himself.
In addressing the Jury, the Judge said, the question for them was, whether they would receive the evidence of Swift, for no other part of the evidence would convict the prisoner. The Jury almost immediately said they were all agreed in a verdict of Not Guilty. The Judge then addressed the prisoner. He told him he had no doubt but that he had been very properly acquitted, at least he had not not been proved guilty. He had been placed in a very perilous situation, for had he been convicted, he must have been left for execution. ‘If (said his Lordship) you are guilty, repent, if innocent, take warning.
John Swift who had been convicted of stealing a watch, and who subsequently appeared as a Witness against Tovey, was called up, and sentenced to be imprisoned to hard labour for one year. His Lordship observed, that he had neither increased nor diminished the amount of the punishement in consequence of the evidence this prisoner had given in the case of arson.
At the 1841 census Joseph and Ann were living at Land End, Birlingham.137
1841 Census Land End, Birlingham, Worcestershire Joseph Smithin, age 50, Farmer Anne Smithin, age 40 Joseph Smithin, age 11 Margaret Smithin, age 9 Mary Smithin, age 6 Charles Jones, age 20 James Blizard age, 15, Serv Mary Mason, age 15
Their daughters Ann and Sarah were at School in Eckington. 138
Eckington Ann Smithin, age 14, Pupil Sarah Smithin, age 13, Pupil
Joseph also owned or leased land in Droitwich.139
5th & 6th December 1843: Lease to Sarah George for one year of All those salt works situate in that part of the parish of Dodderhill which lies in the Borough of Droitwich, called Inliberties, comprising a spacious stove two pan houses two sheds with yard and other conveniences - heretofore in possession of John Lees but now in the occupation of John Bradley
The works were originally owned by John Lees who went bankrupt and were bought from the receiver by the John Bradley mentioned who owned them from about 1836-1876. Presumably Joseph was leasing the works and sub-let the lease to Sarah George. Dodderhills is the area to the north of Droitwich where the Chateau Impney (1880) now stands and there is a 'Brine pits farm' a little further north.
Joseph's wife Anne died on the 11th February 1850, aged 49, and was buried in Birlingham. The grave was marked by a flat stone with a simple inscription.140 141
Ann Wife of Joseph Smithin died February XIth MDCCCL aged XLIX years
Page 25 of 68
At the 1851 census Joseph was farming 130 acres in Birlingham at Land End farm and there were six farm workers. All five children were living at home.142
1851 Census Birlingham, Worcestershire Joseph Smithin, head, widower, age 61, Farmer 130 acres employing 6 labourers, born Birlingham Anne Smithin, daughter, unmarried, age 23, born Birlingham Sarah Smithin, daughter, unmarried, age 22, born Birlingham Joseph Smithin, son, unmarried, age 21, born Birlingham Margaret Smithin, daughter, unmarried, age 19, born Birlingham Mary Smithin, daughter, unmarried, age 15, born Birlingham Charlotte Wilkin servant, unmarried, age 28, House servant, born Defford
In November 1850 Joseph was a juror on a case involving the murder of a child.143
Joseph made a Will in June 1850. In it he left the farm and stock to his son Joseph and his personal estate of over £6,000 was to be divided equally between his four daughters, Anne, Sarah, Margaret and Mary. Joseph's son and Benjamin Smithin the Younger of Sheriff's Lench were the Executors and also acted as Trustees for the money for the daughters.
Benjamin (b.1821) was Joseph's nephew; the son of his younger brother Benjamin (b.1791) who farmed at Sheriff's Lench.
Will of Joseph Smithin – 1850 This is the last will and testament of me Joseph Smithin of Birlingham in the County of Worcester, farmer. I give and devise all and singular my messuages cottages lands tenements and Hereditaments situate at Birlingham aforesaid with their appurtenances and all and singular other my real estate whatsoever and wheresoever situate (except such estates as are or at the time of my decease shall be vested in me in trust of by way of Mortgage) unto and to the use of my son Joseph Smithin his heirs, executors administrators and assigns according to the different 'natures' and legal qualities of thereof respectively for his and their absolute use and benefit.
I give and bequeath all my personal estate and effects after and subject to the payment of my just debts funeral and testamentary expenses to Benjamin Smithin the Younger of Sheriffs Lench in the County of Worcester, farmer and my said son Joseph Smithin their executors administrators and assigns upon the trusts following, that is to say, Upon Trust that my said Trustees and the survivor of them and the executors, administrators or assigns of such survivor do and shall sell and convert into money all such parts of my said Residuary personal estate as shall not consist of money.
And do and shall with and out of the money arising thereby and also with such of my personal estate as shall consist of money after payment of the costs and expenses incidental thereto, lay out and invest the same with power nevertheless to continue the same or the present securities in their or his names or name in Parliamentary stocks or public funds of Great Britain at interest upon Government or real securities in England or Wales with full power and authority to alter vary and transpose the said last mentioned stocks funds and securities of a like nature as often as they shall think advisable.
And I do hereby declare that the Trustees or trustee for the time being of this my will shall stand and be possessed of the monies which shall constitute and be the produce of my said residuary estate and the stocks funds and securities in or upon which the same shall be invested and of which the same shall in part consist. In trust to pay the Interest dividends and annual produce thereof unto or otherwise apply the same for or towards the maintenance of my four daughters, Ann, Sarah, Margaret and Mary in equal shares and proportions until the youngest of my said daughters shall have attained the age of twenty one years.
And from and immediately after my youngest daughter shall have attained that age Upon Trust to pay and divide the said trust monies stocks funds and premises unto between and amongst all my said daughters in equal shares and proportions as tenants in common and not as joint tenants.
Page 26 of 68
And I direct that the said trust monies and premises shall be vested in each of my said four daughters upon their severally attaining the age of twenty one years. And that in case any of my said four daughters shall depart this life under the said age of twenty one years without leaving lawful issue then surviving then I direct and my will is that my said trustees or trustee shall stand possessed of the whole of the said trust monies and premises and the stocks funds and securities in or upon the same shall be invested in trust for the survivor or survivors of them my said daughters for her and their executors and administrators for her and their absolute benefit and to whom I give and bequeath the same accordingly.
I give and devise unto the said Benjamin Smithin the younger and my said son Joseph Smithin all such estates as are vested in me as a mortgagee or trustee for and being my estate and interest therein but subject to the 'equities' subsisting therein respectively at the time of my decease provided always that and I do hereby authorise and empower my said Trustees or trustee for the time being of this my will to comprise or pay allow suspend waiver and compound any debts claimed or demanded which may be owing from or to me or be claimed or made against or in behalf of my estate upon and [---] legal or not as they or he shall deem just provided also and I hereby declare that my said trustees or other the trustees or trustee for the time being of this my will shall not be answerable or accountable the one for the other of them or for any person or persons with whom any part of the said trust monies shall be possessed or lodged for safe custody or otherwise in the expectation of the aforesaid trusts nor for the insufficiency or deficiency of any security or securities stocks and funds in or upon which the said trust monies or any part thereof shall be placed out or invested nor for any other insolvancy loss or damage that may happen in the execution of the aforesaid trusts and that it shall be lawful for the trustees or trustee for the time being of this my will to return to and reimburse themselves respectively and to allow to their respective cotrustees out of the monies which shall come to their or his hands by virtue thereof all losses costs charges and expenses which they or any of them may be put unto or sustain in or about the execution of the Trusts hereby in them reposed.
And I do hereby appoint the said Benjamin Smithin the Younger and the said Joseph Smithin Executors of this my will.
In Witness whereof I have to this my last will and Testament contained in this and the two preceeding sheets of paper set my hand this nineteenth day of June in the Year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and fifity.
Signed: Joseph Smithin
Signed published and declared by the Testator Joseph Smithin as and for his last will and Testament in the presence of us who at his request in his presence and in the presence of each other and before leaving his presence have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses.
Edwin Ball, Solictor, Pershore Thomas Watts, Clerk for Messrs Ball and Hadlin, Pershore.
Joseph died, aged 61, on the 1st August 1851; registered at Pershore in the September quarter.144 Joseph was buried next to his wife Anne, in Birlingham, on the 6th August 1851. There is a flat stone marking his grave with a simple inscription.145
Joseph Smithin died August 1st MDCCCLI Aged LXI
The death was reported in the Worcestershire Chronicle.146
Worcestershire Chronicle Wednesday 13 August 1851 Died. August 1st, at Birlingham, Mr Jos Smithin, aged 61
Probate was granted for his Will on the 12th November 1851.
At his death an Inventory was taken of Joseph's goods and the farm house was clearly quite substantial consisting of: Cheese room, Dairy, Cellar, Kitchen, Sitting room, Parlour, Hall and
Page 27 of 68 stairs, 1st Chamber, 2nd Chamber, 3rd Chamber, 4th Chamber, 5th Chamber, 6th Chamber, Pantry, Wood room, Brewhouse, Milk house, Yard. The total value of the inventory was £1,1716- 0s-3d and there was also a personal residuary estate of £5,710-11-9d making a total value of £6,480 and this does not include the farm, stock and lands which were left to his son.147
Joseph and Anne had five children: Anne (1826-1906), Sarah (1827-1902), Margaretn (1832- 1866), Mary (1835-1921), Joseph (1829-1875).
Anne Smithin (1826-1906). Also known as Annie. The daughter of Joseph and Ann. She was baptised on the 10th September 1826 in Birlingham.148
At the 1841 census she was boarding at School in Eckington. Anne was living at home in Birlingham, age 23, at the 1851 census.
In 1856 she received a bequest of money left in trust to her from her father's Will.
At the 1861 census she was living in Hewlett Road, Cheltenham with her sisters Mary and Sarah.
Ann married Phillip Lavers Treeby in 1861; registered at Cheltenham in the June quarter.149
At the 1871 census they were living in Cheltenham.150
1871 Census Grosvenor Place, South, Cheltenham Treeby Philip, Head, married, age 40, born Devon Treeby Anne, Wife, age 44, born Worcestershire Treeby Helen, single, Daughter, age 8, born Gloucestershire Sircombe Annie, Servant, age 19, born Gloucestershire Constance John, married, Assistant, age 22, born Herefordshire
At the 1881 census they were still living in Cheltenham.151
1881 Census Hewlett Rd 12 Jersey Place, Cheltenham Philip Lavers Treeby, Head, Married, Male, Age 50, Librarian, Birthplace Overton Gifford, Devon Anne Treeby, Wife, Married, Female, Age 54, Librarian Wife, Birthplace Birlingham, Worcester Helen Susanna Treeby, Daughter, Unmarried, Female, Age 18, Birthplace Cheltenham, Gloucester Emma Welch, Servant, Unmarried, Female, Age 14, General Servant, Birthplace Badgworth, Gloucester
At the 1891 Census they were still at Hewlett Road. Anne's sister Mary was lodging with them.152
1891 Census 12 Jersey Place, Hewlett Road, Cheltenham Treeby Philip L, Head, Married, age 60, Wine Merchants Clerk, born Aveton Gifford Devonshire Treeby Anne,Wife, age 64, born Birlingham Worcestershire Treeby Helen S, Daughter Single, age 28, Teacher Private, Cheltenham Smithin Mary, Boarder, Single, age 52, Living On Her Own Means, born Birlingham Worcestershire Crewe Nellie, Servant, Single, age 14, General Servant Domestic, born Winstone Gloucestershire
At the 1901 census they were at Hewlett Road and Mary was still lodging with them.153
Page 28 of 68
1901 Census 12 Jersey Place, Hewlett Road, Cheltenham Philip L Treeby, Head, mararied, age 70, Merchant's clerk, born Aveton Gifford Devon Anne Treeby, Wife, age 73, born Birlingham Worcestershire Helen S Treeby, Daughter, single, age 38, Governess School, born Cheltenham Mary Smithin, Boarder, single, age 63, born Birlingham Worcestershire Beatrice Cindrey, Servant, single, age 15, General servant (Domestic), born Drybrook Gloucestershire
Philip Treeby died aged 82 in 1912; registered in the June quarter at Cheltenham.154
Anne died in 1906; registered in Cheltenham in the September quarter.155
Sarah Smithin (1827-1903). The daughter of Joseph and Ann. She was baptised on the 31st December 1827 in Birlingham.156
At the 1841 census, age 13, Sarah was at School in Eckington. Sarah was living at home in Birlingham, age 22, at the 1851 census.
Her father left a large sum of money to be divided between the four daughters and on the 21st May 1856, Mary, the youngest of the sisters reached the age of 21 and according to the trust the money was divided between the four daughters: £1,620 each.
At the 1861 census Sarah was living in Hewlett Road, Cheltenham with her sisters Mary and Anne.
By about 1873 Sarah was a voluntary patient in the County Asylum, Gloucestershire. One of the letters discussing the sale of the estate in 1890 implies that she became ill after her brother Joseph's death in 1875 and a promissory note of 1873 used the phrase 'on her behalf' when referring to Sarah.
Sarah leant over £2,000 to her brother Joseph, secured against his properties, in separate transactions of £1,800 in 1859 and a further £200 in 1873. The debt was still outstanding in 1890.157
The testator (Joseph Smithin) was indebted at his decease to his sister Sarah in £2,000 the only security thereof being his promissory note which still exists and upon which the Interest has been regularly paid down to the present times by the Testator's Widow (Charlotte) to Sarah Smithin's sisters on her account for her maintenance in the Lunatic Asylum of which she has been an inmate for some years since the testator's death, although not found of unsound mind by Inquisition.
The main Promissory Note had been legally stamped.
June 7th 1859
I promise to pay on demand to Miss Sarah Smithin the sum of One thousand eight hundred pounds and interest half yearly at four and a half percent.
Signed
Joseph Smithin
The debt was repaid in 1891 when the Smithin estate in Birlingham was sold and from that time her sister Mary and nephew Joseph Smithin acted as trustees for the money which was invested and the interest used to maintain Sarah in the Asylum.
At the 1901 census a patient identified as 'S S' was recorded in Barnwood House Hospital for the Insane in Gloucester, age 72, female, single, a lunatic, living on own means; this may be Sarah who does not appear elsewhere on the census.158
Page 29 of 68
Sarah died aged 75 on the 11th October 1903; registered at Gloucester in the December quarter.159 On the certificate she was described as 'of independent means of Cheltenham'. The cause of death was given as 'strangulated hernia' and the certificate was signed by the Asylum Superintendant. Administration was granted to her sister Mary and her effects were valued at £2,294 16s 2d.160 161
Birlingham in 1879 Birlingham is a village and parish 3 miles S.W. of Pershore, 6 N.E. of Upton-on-Severn, 11 S.E. of Worcester,1 mile E. of Defford, and the same distance N.E. of Eckington station on the Birmingham and Bristol branch of the Midland railway. It is almost surrounded by the river Avon and Defford brook, and is in the eastern division of the county and hundred of Upper Pershore; in the union.county court district, petty sessional division, polling district. and rural deanery of Pershore, and in the diocese and archdeaconry of Worceter. It is assessed to the county rate at £3,676. The area of the parish is 1,210 acres; population in 1861, 353;in 1871 339, with 75 inhabited houses, and 91 families or separate occupiers.
The land is fertile, a large portion being meadow and orchard. Asham meadow, about 60 acres, is commonable land after the gathering of hay. The Earl of Coventy is the lord of the manor of Birlingham. The principal landowners are Henry Porter, Esq., and Robert Woodward, Esp. William Hanford Flood, Esq., of Woollashall (who by marriage with Miss Hanford now represents the old Hanford family of Woollashall or Woolleshill), is lord of the manor of Nafford.
The church (St James's), which is in the Decorated Gothic style, was rebuilt (with the exception of the tower) in 1871, the cost being defrayed by a beqest of the late rector, the Rev. Robert Eyres Landor. It consists of chancel, nave with aisles, and south porch. Mr. B. Ferrey, of London, was the architect. The register begins with the year 1566. The church was formerly a chapel to Nafford, and the living is still described as Nafford with Birlingham; but the site of Nafford church is now lost. The living is a rectory, annual value £230, with residence and 79 acres of glebe, in the patronage of the trustees of the Rev. R Landor, and is held by the Rev. Rashleigh Duke, B.A., of Queen's College, Oxford, who was instituted in 1869. A parochial school erected and endowed by the late Miss Porter, was opened in 1855, and there are also almshouses. 162
Private Residents Britten Forrester, Esq., J.P., Birlingham Court House Duke Rev. Rashleig, B.A. (rector of Nafford with Birlingham), The Rectory Porter Mrs, Birlingham mansion Woodward Joseph, Esq,. The Moors
Agricultural and Commercial Aldington William, shoeing and general smith and edge-tool maker Atwood Esther, shopkeeper Bowers Albert, parish clerk Cockbill Joseph, mkt. gardener & carrier Cooke Miss E. A., schoolmistress Day William, farm bailiff for Mrs Porter Gibbs Matthew, carpenter, wheelwright, shopkeeper, and sub-postmaster Goodall Edmund, farmer and butcher, New farm Jones Walter, miller, Nafford mill Phelps Samuel, farmer, Hall farm Phelps William, farmer Roper James, carpenter and wheelwright Skinner Mrs. Sarah, farmer, Upper end Smith George, farmer Box cottage Smithin Mrs., farmer, Lower end Taylor Thomas, beer retailer (Swan) Woodward Joseph, farmer and land-owner, The Moors
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Margaret Smithin (1832-1866). The daughter of Joseph and Ann. She was baptised in Birlingham on the 23rd September 1832.163
At the 1841 census, age 9, she was living at home in Birlingham. At the 1851 census, age 19, she was living at home in Birlingham
Margaret died, aged 34, in 1866; registered at Northleach in Gloucestershire near Cheltenham.164 She was buried in Birlingham on the 29th May 1866.165
The death was reported in the Worcester Journal.166
Smithin. May 14, Margaret, third daughter of the late Mr. Jos. Smithin,
Mary Smithin (1835-1921). The daughter of Joseph and Ann. She was baptised in Birlingham on the 7th June 1835.167
At the 1841 census, age 6, Mary was living at home in Birlingham. Mary was living at home in Birlingham, age 15, at the 1851 census.
In 1856 she received a bequest of money left in trust to her from her father's Will.
At the 1861 census three of the sisters, Mary, Annie and Sarah were living together in a house in Hewlett Road, Cheltenham.168
1861 Census Hewlett Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire Annie Smithin, Head, age 34, unmarried, House holder, born Birlingham Sarah Smithin, Sister, age 33, unmarried, House holder, born Birlingham Mary Smithin, Sister, age 24, unmarried, House holder, born Birlingham Ann Lawrence, Servant, age 15, unmarried, born Charlton Kings, Gloucestershire
There is a notice of Mary living in Cheltenham in 1870.169
Salisbury and Winchester Journal, Saturday 19 Feburary 1870 Smithin Mary, 9 Oxford Street, Cheltenham, Spinster.
Mary managed her sister Sarah's affairs when Sarah was in the County Asylum and was involved in the wind up of the Smithin Estate in 1890-1891 in dealing with the repayment of Sarah's loan to their brother Joseph.
Received this 11th day of March 1890 of Mrs Charlotte Smithin (on behalf of Sarah Smithin) the sum of forty three pounds seventeen shillings and six pence being half a years interest of £2,000 (less income tax) due to Sarah Smithin. December 1st 1889
Mary Smithin
At the 1891 census Mary was boarding at 12 Jersey Place, Cheltenham.170
1891 Census Hewlett Road, 12 Jersey Place, Cheltenham Phillip L Truby head, age 60, Wine Merchant's Clerk, born Devonshire ? Anne Truby wife, age 64, born Worcestershire, Birlingham Helen S Truby daughter, single, age 28, Teacher (private), born Gloucestershire, Cheltenham Mary Smithin, boarder, single, age 56, Living on her own means, born Worcestershire, Birlingham Nellie Crewe, servant, single, age 14, general servant (domestic), Gloucestershire, Winstone
Anne Treeby was Mary's sister.
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Letter from Mary Smithin to Joseph Martin, Pershore 12 Jersey Place, Cheltenham, July 18th 1891
Dear Sir,
In reply to your letter of this morning. I write to say that I agree to the deed drawn up also to the proposal that Mr Joseph Smithin should be co-Trustee with me. I will return the draft to you on Monday. With regard to the re-investment of the money when paid out, it must of course be placed somewhere on very good security and not at a lower rate of interest than it is at present, as it is only just sufficient to cover her expenses. I shall be glad of your advice on the subject. I shall be at home until the 6th August when I go away for three weeks with my Niece who can only leave home at that time. I suppose I shall see or hear from you further in a short time.
I am Sir Yours Truly Mary Smithin
The niece may have been Kate as Isabel had died and Maud was probably in Sussex with her husband. The winding up was still going on in August 1891.
Letter from Mary Smithin To J Martin Esq 12 Jersey Place, March 27th 1891
Dear Sir,
I acknowledge with many thanks your cheque of this morning for my sister's interest and for which I enclose you my receipt. I also send at your request copies of my late brother's notes of hand for £2,000 and I shall be glad to have the business settled when convenient.
Yours Truly M Smithin
Letter from Mary Smithin to J Martin 12 Jersey Place, Cheltenham, July 10th 1891
Dear Sir,
I forward a receipt for my Sister's interest received on July 3rd for which I am much obliged. Another week having passed I beg to remind you that I have not heard anything from you about the settlement of her money which you promised in your last. As it is her sole dependence it should be re-invested at once in order that her payments may be made regularly, and if there is a further delay I shall not have time to attend to it on the eve of leaving home.
Awaiting your reply
I am Sir Yours truly M Smithin
Letter from Mary Smithin to J Martin 12 Jersey Place, Cheltenham, December 22nd 1892
Really Mr Martin you are treating me in this wretched business in a most unpardonable manner. You appoint day after day to call on me keeping me at home expecting you and yet you never put in an appearance. I have never been treated before so rudely by anyone and it will make me disinterested, how can I place any dependence upon anything you say, I expect it is impossible.
M Smithin
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Note from Mary Smithin to J Martin 12 Jersey Place, August 3rd 1891
Dear Sir
Just a line to say that I am leaving home on Wednesday August 3rd and shall be away 3 weeks
Yours Truly M Smithin
Letter from Mary Smithin to J Martin 12 Jersey Place, Cheltenham, March 23 1893
Dear Mr Martin
I write to say I received the Certificate of the National Provincial Bank. I have this morning also the Authority for the receipt of the Dividend Warrant which I have signed as requested although we have previously signed a form for the same purpose sent to me from the Head Office on March 6th which we sent back to the Office. I also enclose the two Promisory Notes and shall be glad to have it all settled.
Yours Truly
M Smithin
At the 1901 census Mary was boarding at 12 Jersey Place, Cheltenham. The others in the house were Philip Treeby age 70, Annie Treeby his wife aged 73 and Beatrice Cindrey a servant aged 15.
Mary dealt with the Administration of her sister Sarah's death in 1903.
Mary died, aged 86, on the 25th September 1921 at the Medical Home, Royal Parade, Cheltenham. Probate was granted to Joseph Smithin (her nephew) and her effects were valued at £1,741 12s 0d.171 172
Mary was buried at Cheltenham Cemetery.173
Mary and Phillip had one child: Helen Treeby (b.1863).
Joseph Smithin (1829-1875). The son of Joseph and Anne.
See next section.
4. Joseph Smithin and Charlotte Butt
Joseph Smithin (1829-1875). The son of Joseph and Anne. He was baptised on the 9th August 1829 in Birlingham.174
At the 1841 census, age 11, he was living at home in Birlingham At the 1851 census, age 21, he was living at home at Land End, Birlingham.
Joseph married Charlotte Butt in Pirton on the 26th April 1856.175 176 177 The marriage was by licence and the witnesses were John Butt, Susan Elizabeth Herbert, Edwin Burridge, Sarah Ann Butt and George Grainger
John Butt and Sarah Ann Butt were Charlotte's cousins.
Joseph was listed in Kelly's directory of 1860 as a Farmer at Birlingham.178
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Joseph was involved in a court case in 1860.179
Worcester Journal, Friday 30th November 1860 Pershore Petty Sessions Turnip stealing. Charles Lock and David Mence, both labourers, of the parish of Birlingham, were charged by Mr. Joseph Smithen, farmer, with stealing, on the 20th inst., seven turnips from a field, his property. Mr. Smithen said he had no wish to have the defendants heavily fined. He brought them before the Bench in order to afford an example to others, as he was frequently losing turnips from his field. Fined 6d. each, 2d. the value of the turnips, and 8s. 6d. each expenses.
At the 1861 census Joseph and Charlotte were at Lower End farm in Birlingham.180
1861 Census Lower End, Birlingham Joseph Smithin, head, age 31, Farmer of 317 acres employing eight labourers, born Birlingham Charlotte Smithin, wife, age 29, Farmer's wife, born Northampton Joseph Smithin, son, age 3, born Birlingham Francis Arthur Smithin, son, age 2, born Birlingham Isabel Charlotte Smithin, daughter, age 10 months, born Birlingham Sarah Frier, servant, unmarried, age 15, born Birlingham, House Servant Mary Jane Davis, servant, unmarried, age 25, born Plymouth, House Servant
'Northampton' probably refers to the hamlet of Northampton, Ombersley, Worcestershire.
The increase in the size of the farm was due to Joseph's purchase of a farm at Eckington, a farm called Merrell's in Birlingham, and land and buildings next to where Avonside was later built. The purchases were funded by mortages raised in 1859 and 1870 to a total value of £8,000.
Joseph is probably the ‘Mr. Smithin’ reported in the Evesham Journal of 13th August 1864
Eckington Fire. A fire, which at its outbreak, was thought would be of a very serious nature, took place in the rickyard of adjoining Mr. Smithin’s farm buildings, and in close proximity with the farm house on Sunday last. A hay rick, which for several days had been heated to such an extent that the whole neighbourhood had been anticipating its taking fire, broke out in a light blaze at a few minutes past one, on Sunday afternoon. The engines from Pershore were immediately sent for, but a number of men were in a few minutes on the spot, and through their active exertions succeeded in extinguishing the fire.
Joseph was involved in a court case in the 1860’s.
Worcestershire Chronicle Wed 14 Feb 1866 This was an action by Mr. T Timmings, cattle dealer, White Ladies Aston, against Mr Joseph Smithin, farmer, Birlingham, to recover 16l 15s balance of money deposited in his hands as stakeholder. Mr Bentley for the plaintiff. The facts were as follows. On the 13th August last, the plaintiff, defendant, and Arthur Newman, cattle dealer, Baughton being at the Quiet Woman in this town, Newman bet the plaintiff 12l to 6l that the dwelling house of Mr Aaron Pike, of Mitton, near Tewkesbury, was in the County of Gloucester, the defendant averring that it was in the county of Worcester. The stakes were deposited with defendant, 1l 5s being spent in wine. Plaintiff’s statement being correct, he claimed the stakes. Defendant offered, to return plaintiff his own money, but he refused, and an action was brought for the 18l less the cost of the wine. Defendant paid plaintiff’s own stakes into Court. Judgement for defendant, his Honour advising the parties to refer such questions in future to Bell’s Life rather than his decision.
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At the 1871 census the farm had decreased slightly in size to 300 acres and Joseph employed 8 men and 3 boys and they had three live-in servants.
Lower End, Birlingham Joseph Smithin, head, age 41, born Birlingham, Farmer 300 acres employing 8 men and 3 boys Charlotte Smithin, wife, age 40, born Northampton Isabel Smithin, daughter, age 10, born Birlingham Sidney Smithin, son, age 8, born Birlingham Kate E Smithin, daughter, age 8, born Birlingham Maud Smithin, daughter, age 6, born Birlingham Hubert Smithin, son, age 6, born Birlingham Susan E Herbert, friend, age 40, unmarried, born Charlton Kings, Gloucestershire, Teacher Ellen Vernon, servant, age 20, unmarried, born Eckington, Nurse Lucy Lawrence, servant, age 25, unmarried, born Norton Gloucestershire, Cook Sarah Bateman, servant, age 15, unmarried, born Birlingham, Housemaid
Joseph and Charlotte attended a Harvest festival in September 1871.181
Worcester Herald Saturday 30 September 1871 Pershore. Harvest Festival. The annual festival of the work people of Mr H T Williams of Allesborough, to celebrate the completion of the harvest, was held on Wednesday evening last. Supper, consisting of roast beef, plum pudding &c., was laid in a large barn, and was thoroughly appreciated by about 60 persons. After supper the elders betook themselves to tobacco and pipes,while the juniors danced to the music of the town band. A large number of Mr and Mrs William’s friends were present, including Dr Wiltshire (London), Dr Smith and Mrs Smith (Pershore), Mr J Cooper (Powick), and Mrs Cooper, Mr J Smithin (Birlingham), and Mrs Smithin, Mr T Butt (Pirton), and Mrs Butt, Mr Hill (Severn Stoke), and Mrs Hill, Mr Mytton (Kempsey), and Mrs Mytton, Mr Bullock (Pensham), and Mrs Bullock, Mr E Bullock (Bedford Bridge), and Miss Bullock, &C.
Thomas Butt was Charlotte’s cousin.
Not long after the 1871 census Joseph was taken seriously ill; probably a heart attack. This was perhaps in 1872 when he made quite a brief and apparently hurried Will.182 He seems to have recovered to some extent and be well enough to be involved in some of the business as he borrowed a further £250 from his sister Sarah on the 1st August 1873 and made a part repayment of £50 on the 1st May 1874.
Joseph was apparently well enough to attend a Horticultural show in August 1873.183
Birlingham Cottagers’ Horticultural Show The sixth annual show in connection with the parishes of Besford, Birlingham, Defford, and Eckington was held on Thursday in the fine meadow in front of Miss Porter’s residence. Amongst the company present were:-
Mr. and Mrs Joseph Smithin and party, Mrs. Horniblow and party (Shuthonger), Miss Smithin and Party (Wadborough), Mrs. Smithin (Stoulton).Mr. and Mrs. T Butt (Pirton Farm).
Joseph died, aged 46, on the 10th August 1875 in Birlingham. His death certificate gave the cause of death as: 'Debility of the heart 2 or 3 years'. 184 Joseph was buried in Birlingham on the 14th August 1875.185
The death was reported in the Worcestershire Chronicle.186
Deaths. Smithin, August 16, at Birlingham, aged 46, Mr Joseph Smithin
The grave is to the west of Birlingham church and has a carved white headstone. Joseph's Will was proved by Charlotte on the 20th October 1875 and Joseph's personal effects were valued at under £3,000.187
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Will of Joseph Smithin (1875) This is the last Will and Testament of me Joseph Smithin of Birlingham in the County of Worcester, Farmer. I direct all my just debts funeral and testamentary expenses to be paid. I give and devise unto my Wife Charlotte Smithin the use and enjoyment of my real and personal estate during her life or Widowhood to enable her to support bring up and educate my children and on her death or marrying again I give and devise all my said real and personal estate unto and equally between my said children as and when they respectively attain the age of twenty one years. I appoint my said wife sole Executrix and empower her to raise for the benefit of either child a reasonable part of his or her presumptive portion. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand this 8th day of September 1872.
Joseph Smithin
Codicil This is a Codicil to my last Will. I authorise my eldest son Joseph Smithin to take to at a valuation in the usual way on my said Wife's death the freehold house and premises in which I reside together with the freehold land and cottages in Birlingham which I inherited from my late father.
In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand this 8th day of September 1872.
Joseph Smithin.
Joseph's wife Charlotte (1824-1908) had an eventful life and must have had a hard time keeping the estate together after Joseph's early death. It is not clear where and when Charlotte was born, perhaps at Staunton on 5th January 1823, possibly in the hamlet of Northampton near Ombersley, Worcestershire, or in Hallow where her father may have worked as a Maltster, or in Martley where she was, age 17, living with her Uncle John Butt in 1841.188 Her age is not consistent in the census returns and her date of birth may be between 1824 and 1833.189
The Stauton birth record gives her father as John and mother Ann – which does not match what she says on the census.
She was described as a Spinster of Pirton at the time of her marriage. On her marriage certifcate she said that her father was Thomas Butt of Pirton Farm.
In February 1856 she was left a bequest by her uncle John Butt of Pirton.190
... all my Household Goods and Furniture Plate Linen China and other Articles belonging to me in or about my dwelling house at the time of my decease to my niece Charlotte Butt Daughter of the late Thomas Butt of Hallow in the said County of Worcester, Maltster deceased, now living with my said Nephew for her use absolutely…
Her uncle was apparently anxious to keep the bulk of his estate within the Butt family.
I direct my Trustee or Trustees for the time being to pay the Interest Dividends and annual produce of my said residuary personal Estate and the rents and profits of my real Estate if any unto my said Niece Charlotte Butt during her life but in case the said Charlotte Butt should marry either of her Cousins the Sons of my late Brother Richard Butt of Pirton aforesaid then I direct my Trustee or Trustees for the time being upon such marriage if my said Housekeeper shall be then dead or if she shall be then living then upon her decease to pay transfer and assign and convey to my said Niece Charlotte Butt All my said residuary personal Estate and all my real Estate if any to hold to her her Heirs Executors and Administrators absolutely. But in case she should not marry either of her said Cousins then I direct that on and after her decease my said residuary personal estate and real Estate if any shall be divided among all her Children who being Sons or a Son shall attain twenty one years or being Daughters or a Daughter shall attain that age or marry in equal shares and if there shall be one Child the whole to such one Child but if my said Niece Charlotte Butt have no such Child and should not marry either of her said Cousins then I direct that on and after her decease my said residuary personal Estate and real Estate (if any) be divided among such of the Children of my said late Brother Richard Butt who shall be living at the decease of the said Charlotte Butt.
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John Butt (1765-1856), Charlotte's uncle, had two brothers William (c.1770) and Richard (1772-1854). The Butts in Pirton and Peopleton are descendants of William and Richard.
Charlotte had a life long friend Susan Elizabeth Herbert who apparently went to stay with Charlotte and Joseph for a week and stayed for the rest of her life! In 1856 she was a witness to their marriage and she was present when Joseph died and registered his death.
A Worcestershire trade directory listed Charlotte as the farmer in 1880.191
At the 1881 census Charlotte was described as the head of the household aged 48 and a farmer of 300 acres.192
Lower End Farm Birlingham Smithin Charlotte, head, age 48, widow, born not known, Farmer of 300 acres Smithin Joseph, son, age 23, unmarried, born Birlingham, Farmer's son Smithin Isabel, daughter, age 20, unmarried, born Birlingham, Smithin Kate, daughter, age 18, unmarried, born Birlingham Smithin Hubert, son, age 16, unmarried, born Birlingham, Farmer's son Fanny Boulton, servant, age 20, unmarried, born Auton of Aulton Gloucs, cook Elizabeth Herbert, age 48, unmarried, born not known Mary Finch servant, age 13, born Broughton, Housemaid
By 1889 the Smithin estate was in a lot of debt. The value of the estate did not provide sufficient cover for the debts and the Mortgagees called in the loans for repayment. Charlotte had only been repaying the interest on the loans so there was still a large amount of money outstanding. A note from the first solicitor that Charlotte approached (A R Hudson of Pershore) described the situation after her son Joseph had been to see him on the 26th March 1889.193
Attending Mr Joseph Smithin and conferring with him as to your paying off two Mortgages upon your Eckington and Birlingham properties which you were under notice to pay off.
The total debt was about £12,000; a very large sum of money.
Avonside, Birlingham May 2010
An attempt to arrange a new Mortgage went on from March 1889 to January 1890 when it was eventually abandoned in favour of a public auction. After costs it was clear that there was not much money left for Charlotte and the family.
Avonside, Birlingham, July 16th 1890 Dear Mr Martin,
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Miss Smithin from Cheltenham is staying with me and she wishes to see you and will be glad to know what day and hour will be most convenient for her to do so. I have not heard from Mr Righton or had any statement from anyone and I am getting anxious to do so as the 29th September will soon be here. You will kindly let me know when Merrells is sold and what all the expenses and your charges will be so that I may know whether I am to expect anything or not.
I am dear Mr Martin Yours truly
C Smithin
The sale notice describes the estate in full.
Sale of Smithin Estate, Birlingham, in 1890 Important sale of Freehold Properties. Mr E G Righton is directed to offer for Public Auction at the Three Tuns Hotel, Pershore. On Tuesday the 24th June 1890 at Three for Four o’clock in the afternoon, in the following or such other lots as may be arranged at the time of sale, and subject to conditions.
Parish of Eckington Lot1 - A very desirable Freehold and Tithe Free estate known as ‘Upper End Farm’ situate in the Parish of Eckington, Worcestershire, containing, 143a. 2r. 5p. or thereabouts of which 130 acres is Pasture Orchard and Meadow Land with Dwelling House and Farm buildings. The Farm is in a good state of cultivation. It lies in a ring fence, and has a main road passing nearly through the centre. The whole with the exception of No.254 is in the occupation of Mr E Snowsell at £250 per annum. No.254 is in hand but was recently let at £10 per annum.
Parish of Birlingham Lot 2 - A Freehold Beerhouse called ‘The Swan Inn’ with outbuildings and a most Productive garden having an excellent Plantation of Plum Trees and Bushes thereon and comprising 0a. 3r. 30p. or thereabouts in the occupation of Mr Thomas Taylor at £26 per annum. This is the only licensed house in the village and commands good trade.
Lot 3 - A valuable and fertile farm called ‘Merrells’ situate in the parish of Birlingham containing 24a. 0r. 3p or thereabouts with Dwelling house, garden and buildings.
Lot 4 - A very productive Garden partly walled in, well stocked with choice sorts of fruit trees and the excellent Pasture Orchard adjoining called ‘Sheer Croft Orchard’ the whole containing 1a. 0r. 8p. or thereabouts.
Lot 5 - A valuable Close of Pasture Land or Orcharding called ‘Berwicke Orchard’ having a fine plantation of Apple and Pear Trees upon it now in full Bearing, containing 3a. 1r. 38p. or thereabouts.
Lot 6 - An excellent piece of Arable or Garden land (formerly ‘Old Turf’) called ‘Longford Close’ containing 3a. 0r. 19p. or thereabouts. This lot is well adapted for Building or Gardening purposes.
Lot 7 - Two closes of Arable and Meadow Land called respectively ‘Short Hill’ and ‘Upper Woods Meadow’ comprising 14a. 3r. 30p. or thereabouts. Short Hill is a splendid piece of land well suited for Gardening having a good depth of soil and lying to the South.
Lot 8 - An extraordinary piece of Arable land called ‘Withy Walk’ containing 9a. 1r. 20p. or thereabouts. This is a splendid piece of land, well adapted for Garden purposes, the soil being rich and deep.
Lot 9 - A very desirable Residence known as ‘Avonside’ containing Front and Back Halls, Dining, Drawing, and Sitting rooms, 8 Bedrooms, Kitchens, China Closet, Pantry, Underground Cellar, and the usual Out-offices, tastefully laid out Flower Garden with Lawn, Greenhouse, and Kitchen Garden, with a southern aspect, and directly opposite to the Bredon Hills (of which there is a beautiful view). Also near to it is an old Farm House and Farm buildings, together with 15a. 1r. 5p. or thereabouts, of
Page 38 of 68 excellent Orcharding and very superior Meadow and Pasture Land. The above forms a very nice Country residence with every convenience and situated most pleasantly, with a gravelly subsoil.
Lot 10 - A comfortable Brick built and Tiled Cottage (formerly a farm house) with large and productive Garden fronting Church Street, let to W. Mence at £6 per annum.
Lot 11 - Three Brick built and Tiled Cottages and large Gardens, near to Lot 10, and let to George Mann and S. Bradley and one at present void, producing £12. 15s. per annum.
Lot 12 - The Pastures in Asham Meadow about 3a. 0r. 20p. and also 4 Cow and 2 Horse Pastures.
The farms are in a good state of cultivation; the Orchards are in full bearing; the Pasture Land is exceedingly rich; and the Arable Land is equal to the garden land for which Eckington and Birlingham are so noted. The property is Freehold and Tithe Free (with the exception of a Titheable Lot in Asham Meadow). The Properties have been arranged in such lots as cannot fail to be attractive to all parties, and form most desirable opportunities to all classes of Investors.
To view apply to Mr Hubert Smithin, Birlingham; and for further particulars, with Plans and Conditions of Sale as to Lot 1 to Mr Harry J Smith Solicitor, Moreton-in-Marsh; and as to all the lots to Mr Joseph Martin Solicitor. Pershore, and to the Auctioneer, Evesham and Pershore.
The unlet cottage in Lot 11 was let to a William Mann by January 1891.
The cottages and some of the land in the centre of the village such as 'Withey Walk' had been in the family since the earliest days in Birlingham so it must have been a very sad time for the family and for Hubert to see his childhood home sold and to have to show the prospective buyers around. The Swan Inn was run by a Hannah Butt (as tenant) in 1873 and 1878 but we do not know whether she was a relation of Charlotte.194
Smithin Estate in Birlingham 1890
After the sale Charlotte moved to rented accomodation at The Mythe, Grosvenor Street, Cheltenham. Her sister-in-law Mary lived a few minutes walk away at 12 Jersey Place.
At the 1891 census, age 58, Charlotte was living at The Mythe, Grosvenor Street, Cheltenham with her daughter Kate.195
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1891 Census The Mythe, Grosvenor Street, Cheltenham Charlotte Smithin, Head, age 58, widow, Home, born Worcestershire Kate I Smithin, daughter, age 25, Home, born Worcestershire Isabel D Smith, granddaughter, age 6, Home, born Gloucestershire Susan E Herbert, cousin, age 60, Home, born Gloucestershire Edith Horniblow cousin, age 27, Home, born Worcestershire Ellen Wheeler servant, age 26, Domestic servant, born Worcestershire
Edith Horniblow is the daughter of Joseph's cousin; Mary Smithin (b.1823) who married William Horniblow.
Susan Herbert is Charlotte’s life-long friend who had been with them in Birlingham.
It took several years for all the details of the sale to be completed and for Charlotte to eventually receive a final cheque of about £1,400.
The Mythe, Grosvenor Street, August 5th 1894 Dear Mr Martin
The cheque arrived quite safely this morning and I am much obliged to you for sending it. I am glad to hear that you are better. I hope you will continue to have health and soon be convalescent.
With Kind Regards Believe me dear Mr Martin
Yours sincerely C Smithin
For further details of the estate and sale see the document: Sale of the Smithin Estate in Birlingham, and for further details of the Butt family and Charlotte see the document: Butt family - Pirton & Powick
Charlotte was listed in Kelly's Directory for Gloucestershire in 1897.196
Cheltenham, Smithin Mrs, The Mythe, Grosvenor Street
Charlotte advertised for staff for The Mythe in 1898.197
Gloucester Citizen, Friday 7th October, 1898 Wanted, young General servant, about 17; good character, steady, and obliging. Apply Mrs Smithin, The Mythe, Grosvenor Street, Cheltenham.
At the 1901 census Charlotte was living at 50 Grosvenor Street, Cheltenham (the same place as The Mythe) and was described as a Boarding House Keeper. The others at the address were Kate her daughter and boarders Anne Mather aged 69, Albert Edward Pullin aged 33, Ernest R Simpson aged 32 and a servant Elsie Bowsher aged 15. Charlotte gives her age as 68 and says she was born in Hallow, Worcestershire.198
Avonside and it's new owner were mentioned in Berrow's Worcester Journal in 1903.199
February 21 1903 - On Tuesday evening Mr W J Sheldon of Avonside, Birlingham, with characteristic kindness, gave a magic lantern exhibition to the inmates of the Pershore Union. The Rev J H Feek presided, and there were other guardians present. The views were a miscellaneous selection, mostly of an amusing nature, and proved highly entertaining to those who saw them.
Charlotte died, at The Mythe, aged 78, on the 19th October 1908; registered in Cheltenham in the December quarter.200 Her daughter Kate was the informant and was present at her death.201 202
Charlotte was buried on the 22nd October 1908 at the Cheltenham burial ground.203
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A memorial cross was added to Charlotte’s grave in 1909.204
Cheltenham Burial Board 24th September 1909 Resolved, That the following designs be approved, viz.:- Headstones to graves of Louisa and Lydia Baglin, Henrietta Theresa Gibbs; William, Rebekah, William and Mary Gibbs. Memorial Crosses to graves of John Martin Skarratt; Walter Briscoe Barnes; Willimine Octavia Jenour; Charlotte Smithin and Elizabeth Herbert …
5. Descendants of Joseph Smithin & Charlotte Butt
Joseph Smithin (1857-1930). The son of Joseph and Charlotte. He was born in Birlingham on the 13th August 1857 and was baptised on the 7th September 1857 at Birlingham.205 206 207
See separate document for details.
Francis Smithin (1858-1937). Francis Arthur. Also Frank. The son of Joseph and Charlotte. He was born on the 7th November 1858 and baptised on the 1st December 1858 at Birlingham.208 209
At the 1861 census, age 2, he was at home at Lower End farm.
At the 1871 census, age 12, Francis was away at school in Meriden.210
1871 Census Hall, Meriden, Warwickshire Francis A Smithin, age 12, Student
Francis was listed on the 1881 census, age 22, as 'Frank'.211 He was boarding at 11 Conduit Road, Plumstead Kent.
1881 Census Kent 11 Conduit Rd, Plumstead Joseph Easton Head, Married, age 42, C S Writer (Royal Arsenal), born Winchelsea, Sussex Jane S. Easton Wife, Married, age 37, born Norwich George T. Easton, Son, age 6, Scholar, born Plumstead, Kent Elizabeth A. Easton, Daughter, age 4, Scholar, born Plumstead Hubert E. Easton, Son, age 3, born Plumstead Edith N. Easton, Daughter, age 11 m, born Plumstead Frank Smithin, Boarder, Unmarried, age 22, Clerk (General), born Burlingham, Worcs.
Francis emigrated to Canada on the 6th May 1884 travelling on the ‘Sarnia’ and arriving at Quebec.212
Canadian Passenger Lists, 1865-1935 Name: Mr Frank Smithin Date of Arrival: 6 May 1884 Vessel: Sarnia Port of Arrival: Quebec
Francis worked as Farmer or Farm labourer.
Francis was not involved in the sale of the Smithin estate in 1890 but was mentioned in the discussions.
Frank was running a tobacconists at 271 Wellington, London, Ontario in 1899.213
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Francis was listed on the Ontario Census of 1901.214
West Nissouri, Ontario, Canada Census 1901 Near London in Middlesex County, Ontario Howard Fellows Head, born 27 Sep 1867, age 33, Farmer, Employer Catherine Fellows Mother, born 26 Sep 1839, age 61, born England, Naturalised in 1849, C of E Frank Smithin, Dom, single, born 7 Nov 1858, age 42, born England, C of E, Farm Labourer, Employee Anna Jones, Dom, single, born 10 May 1864, age 36, born England, C of E, ? Servant, Employee Alice Sabill, Dom, single, born 9 Dec 1881, age 19, Meth, Employee
Francis had been working there at least 12 months and his earnings were $184 (per annum?)
Catherine Fellows (or Fallows) left a diary covering 1899-1903 and in it Frank Smithin is mentioned as one of the farm labourers. Her husband was John Fallows and the sons were John and Howard Fallows.215
Francis married Elizabeth Jepson (1868-1948) in Canada in 1907.216
Ontario, Canada, Marriages 1857-1922 Name: Francis Arthur Smithin, Bachelor, Farmer Birth Place: England, Age: 48 Father Name: Joseph Smithin Mother Name: Charlotte Butt Estimated Birth Year: abt. 1859 Spouse Name: Elizabeth Jepson, Spinster. Spouse's Age: 38 Spouse Birth Place: England Spouse Father Name: George Jepson Spouse Mother Name : Mary Kettleband Marriage Date: 13 Mar 1907 Marriage Place: Middlesex West Nissouri, London City, Canada
The Witnesses were: Mrs. S. Holmes, London (Ontario) and Nora Holmes, London (Ontario)
Elizabeth (Lizzie) was born in Derbyshire and had a child in 1892 and was sent to Canada.217
Francis and Elizabeth were still living in Ontario at the 1911 census.218
1911 Census Canada Ontario, Middlesex East., West Nissouri Francis A Smithin, Head, born Nov 1858, age 52, Emigrated 1885, English origin, Canadian citizen, Farmer Elizabeth Smithin, Wife, born Mar 1872, age 39, Emigrated 1905, English origin, Canadian citizen, Nurse
Frank and Elizabeth are listed on an Electoral roll for Middlesex East, Ontario in 1935. He was described as a farmer.219
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Frank died, age 78, on the 28th January 1937 and is buried at Zion Hill Cemetery in Middlesex County, Ontario.220
Francis Smithin, 1858-1937
Elizabeth, age 69, returned to England to stay permanently in 1937; after Francis had died. She sailed on the Letitia (Donaldson Line) from Montreal and arrived at Glasgow on 23 May 1937.221
Elizabeth (1868-1948) died, aged 80, on the 11th December 1948. This was at Portland Road, Selston, Kirkby, Nottingham. Her death was notified by her niece E M Barnet.
Portland Road was Elizabeth's home; she was living there in 1871, age 3.
Isabel Smithin (1860-1884). Isabel Charlotte. The daughter of Joseph and Charlotte. She was born on the 3rd of June 1860 and baptised on the 2nd July 1860 at Birlingham.222 223
At the 1861 census, age 10 months, she was living at home at Lower End farm At the 1871 census, age 10, she was living at home at Lower End farm
In July 1877 her cousin Theodore Frederick Butt of Pershore left her £200 pounds.224 She was described as a spinster of Birlingham.
At the 1881 census, age 20, she was living at home at Lower End farm.
Isabel married John Walter Smith (1858-1896) on the 13th December 1883 at Birlingham.225 226
Isabel died on the 17th November 1884, aged 24. 227
Isabel, of The Bank Farm, Dumbleton, was buried on the 21st November 1884 at St. Peter, Dumbleton.
John Walter Smith was a farmer at Dumbleton, Gloucestershire. A cousin of Isabel, Benjamin Abel Smithin (1858-1920) also farmed at Dumbleton. At the 1891 census Benjamin was visiting John at the Bank Farm, Dumbleton.
John died in 1896.
Isabel and John had one daughter Isabel Dora Mary Smith born on the 16th October 1884.228
At the 1891 census Isabel Dora was living with her grandmother Charlotte in Cheltenham.
Isabel Dora died, age 34, in Paignton, on the 24th December 1917.
Probate was granted on the 5th June 1917.229
Smith Isabel Dora Mary of Cleveland Maredon Road Paignton, Devonshire. Spinster, died 24th December 1917. Probate London 5th June to James Andrews bank manager and the Public Trustee. Effects. £7631 14s. 9d.
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A notice about her estate appeared in the London Gazette of the 28th June 1918.230
Notice is hereby given, that all creditors and other persons having any debts, claims or demands against the estate of Isabel Dora Mary Smith, late of Cleveland, Marldon Road, Paignton, in the county of Devon, Spinster, deceased (who died on the 24th day of December 1917, and whose will was proved in the Principal Registry of the Probate Division of His Majesty's High Court of Justice, on the 5th day of June, 1918, by James Andrews Smithin, of the city of Gloucester, Bank Manager, and the Puhlic Trustee, the executors therein named), are hereby required to send in the particulars of their debts, claims or demands to us, the undersigned, the Solicitors for the said executors, on or before the 30th day of August, 1918.
The James Smithin mentioned was a cousin of Charlotte’s husband Joseph.
Sidney Smithin (1862-1929). Also Sydney. The son of Joseph and Charlotte. Known as Joe or Joseph. He was born on the 26th June 1862 at Birlingham and baptised on the 3rd August 1862.231 232 He was the twin of his sister Kate.
At the 1871 census, age 8, he was living at home at Lower End farm.
At the 1881 census he was living in London at what may have been a small institute for woodworking apprentices run by Francis Child. Sidney was described as an unmarried Woodcarver’s apprentice. 233
1881 Census 10 & 11 West Square, Southwark St George Martyr, Surrey Francis Child, Head, Married, Male, Age 47, Wood Carver (Employing 3 Men), born Birmingham Harriet Child Wife, Married, Female, Age 45, born Newington, Surrey Arthur F. Child Son, Unmarried, Male, Age 11, Scholar, born Lambeth, Surrey Kate M. Child Daughter, Unmarried, Female, Age 9 Scholar, born Gloucester Walter H. Child Son, Unmarried, Male, Age 7 Scholar, born Southwark, Surrey Chas. E. Child, Son, Unmarried, Male, Age 4, Scholar, born Southwark, Surrey Sidney Smithin, Boarder, Unmarried, Male, Age 18, Wood Carver Apprentice, born Pershore Edward Wilson Boarder, Unmarried, Male, Age 16, Stone Carver Apprentice (Mason), born Filts, York John Lawrence Boarder, Unmarried, Male, Age 19, Wood Carver Apprentice, born Datchworth, Hertford
Charlotte mentioned Sidney in a letter to her Solicitor of 1890.234
Avonside, Birlingham, January 20th 1890 Dear Mr Martin
My son Sidney returned to business early last week and Hubert is from Home for a few days so neither of them could call upon you today, but if you want to see the deeds which are not in the bank I shall be at home any day it is convenient if you do come over.
I am Very Truly Yours C Smithin
Sidney was living at 61 Nottingham Road, Derby; he was probably away working on a commission.
At the 1891 census he was still living at Nottingham road, Derby.
1891 Census St. Alkmund Derby, 61 Nottingham Road Grace Powell head, widow, age 58, Newsagent, born Derby Herbert W Powell son, married, age 28, Chapel Keeper, born Derby Emily Powell son's wife, married, age 31 born Derby Weston Mary A Holmes Lodger, single, age 22, paper bag maker, born Derby Barton under Westwood, deaf and dumb from childhood Sidney Smithin, Lodger, single, age 29, wood and stone carver, born Worcester, Birlingham
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There is a report of Sidney playing cricket for Deddington in 1895 so he may have had some connections there some years before joining the local firm of H.R. Franklin.235
Oxford Journal, Saturday 31 August 1895 Cricket. Deddington played Aynho at Deddington Castle grounds and the game resulted in a win for the visitors by 16 runs in the first innings. Deddington S. Smithin 0
In 1899 Sidney was living in Cheltenham and working for the well known firm of H H Martyn. Sidney was part of the team that carved a mahogany altar and reredos for the Jesus chapel at Worcester Cathedral. This was installed in 1899 when the chapel was re-enclosed and re-furbished.236
Jesus chapel Worcester, c.2000
Sidney married Emily Manchip in 1899; registered at Cheltenham in the September quarter.237
Sidney moved to Oxford shortly after that to join another firm of stone masons and carvers; H R Franklin.
The successful joiner's and builder's business of Robert Franklin (d. 1864) in Chapel Square was turned by his sons H.R. and W. Franklin into a firm with an international reputation for high-quality restoration work on church and college buildings in London, Salisbury, Oxford and elsewhere. Abroad, their contracts included the pulpit and chancel screen of Hobart Cathedral, Tasmania, Australia, where they are still to be seen. At their height the Franklin workshops employed as many as 200 skilled masons and woodcarvers. The firm closed in 1917.238
Two of the major works that Sidney was involved with were the Stone carving for the facade of the College of Examiners (Examinations schools) in Oxford and the Full Rood Screen, pulpit and altar for St David's Cathedral in Hobart, Tasmania. The rood screen took about 10 years to complete and was shipped out just before World War I. His grandson John (b.1943) went to see his grandfather's work in Tasmania.239
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At the 1901 census Sidney was registered at 3 St Elegins Street, Cambridge lodging with Eliza F Budges, Edwin Budges her son and a John Murray age 22. He was probably away working on a job.
Emily Manchip (1876-1966) was born in Deddington and at the 1901 census, age 25, was living at Horse Fair Deddington, Oxford with their first two children Sydney and Dora. Her sister-in-law Estella Manchip aged 16, was staying with them.240
Emily's father was probably Thomas A Manchip a National School Master, aged 58, and her mother was Eliza J Manchip age 46; they also lived in Deddington. Emily had four sisters Edith (possibly later Edith Churchill) Ethel, Evelina, Muriel and one brother, Harry. There is a plaque to Thomas in St Peter & St Paul, Deddington.241
To the memory of Thomas Manchip, for 37 years Head Master of Deddington School and 34 years Choir Master of this Church who died March 9th 1911, aged 68 years. This tablet is erected in affectionate remembrance and grateful appreciation of his work in this Parish by old boys, members of the Choir and personal friends.
Sidney taught woodcarving at Deddington in 1907.242
Banbury Advertiser, Thursday 28th, January 1904 Deddington Technical Education. A series of lessons in wood-carving commenced on Thursday, and will be continued on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, at 7.30pm, for some months. The instructor is Mr. Sydney Smithin, of Deddington
A pupil of Sidney’s is mentioned in a report in 1905.243
Banbury Advertiser, 13th July 1905 Deddington Technical Education. E. Blake, pupil of Mrs?. S. Smithin, was awarded 10s. by Mr.G.H. Morrell, for piece of wood carving lately exhibited at Oxford.
Sidney played cricket for Deddington in 1907.
Banbury Advertiser 22 August 1907 Cricket. Deddington v Ardley This match took place at Ardley on Saturday, the game ending in a tie. Score:- Deddington S. Smithin not out 12
Sidney was listed in Kelly's Directory for Oxfordshire in 1907 and 1911.244 245
1907, Deddington - Commercial - Smithin Sidney, Carver, New Street 1907, Trades - Carvers & Guilders, Smithin Sidney, New Street, Deddington 1911, Deddington, Commerical - Smithin, Sidney, carver, Castle Street 1911, Carvers & Guilders - Smithin, Sidney, Castle Street, Deddington
At the 1911 census they were living in Deddington.
1911 Census Castle Street, Deddington, Oxford. Smithin Sydney, head, married, age 48, Wood and Stone Carver, Birlingham, Worcs. Smithin Emily, wife, married 12 years, age 36, born Deddington Smithin Sydney Gerald, son, age 11, School, born Deddington Smithin Dora Kathleen, daughter, age 10, born Deddington Smithin, Winnie Muriel, daughter, age 8, born Deddington
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Sidney won two prizes for Asters and Dahlias at the Deddington Flower show in 1913.
In 1919 Sydney received a commission for the new War Memorial for the village; at this time he had his own business.246
The War Memorial in Deddington. At a public meeting on 31st March 1919 it was decided to commemorate the "Fallen in the War" by a monument. At a follow up meeting in May a large majority favoured a memorial site in the middle of the pathway in the extended Churchyard. By June 13 that year, 32 local ex-servicemen had personally collected the sum of £171-2-1. The design the Parishioners chose was by Mr Smithin, to be executed by Messers Smithin & Cambray in Portland stone and to stand 12 feet 6 inches high, surmounted by a cross with four lions at its base. The estimated total cost, was £230. The unveiling and dedication of the Memorial took place on the afternoon of Sunday, August 6, 1922. The unveiling was performed by Major General Sir Robert Fanshaw KCB, DSO, who had been associated with some of Deddington's men in the War. The Vicar, the Revd T Boniface dedicated the Memorial, assisted by the Revd T Buckingham (Wesleyan) and the Revd J. Carter, of Oxford (representing the Congregationalists), the two latter giving addresses. The singing of the hymns was led by the Church-, Congregational- and Wesleyan Choirs, accompanied by a band. Relatives and friends of the Fallen, together with the Queen's Own Oxfordshire Hussars and Ex-Servicemen from the Parish placed a number of beautiful wreaths at the foot of the Memorial. The proceedings, well arranged by a sub-committee, were somewhat marred by rain. The Service ended with "The Last Post" and "Reveille" and the National Anthem, after which a muffled peal of bells was rung.
In 1927 Sidney and Emily were at the wedding of their daughter Dora.
Sidney was responsible for the stone carving for the Black Horse public house in Northfield, Birmingham which was completed in 1929 for Davenports Brewery.
Black horse pub – Northfield, Birlingham
Black Horse, Northfield By Francis Goldsbrough of Bateman and Bateman for Davenport's. The grandest of the post first world war "reformed pubs" built on a vast scale in a picturesque highly successful Vernacular Revival combining Midlands half timbering and Cotswold stone, giving the impression, in its loose planning, of a gradual evolution from late medieval to Jacobean. The quality of detailing and materials embodies the best of the Birmingham Arts and Crafts tradition. The lower south end includes the managers house, half timbered on a Cotswold stone base, then the lavishly close studded wing with 2 gabled bays containing the hall and staircase followed by the similarly close studded main block under a massive stone tiled sweep of roof with a tall cross wing at the north end and finally a tower north wing. Cotswold stone slate roofs. Bargeboarded gables. Lattice casements in continuous ranges on the main block. Lofty chimney stacks with decorated shafts. The rear elevation more restrained but still with a variety of half timbered gables and with parts of the roof carried down over outshuts. The interiors have largely been modernised with lowered ceilings but to ground floor bar (originally the smoke room) retains the extended effect of a medieval hall. The stone carving was executed by Sidney Smithin whilst the decorative woodwork including the grotesques on the Bristol Road front was carved by Jean Hahn.
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Later in his career Sidney also worked for Hornton Quarries, Edgehill, Warwickshire. as a Stone Mason.
Birmingham Weekly Post 8th May 1959 The Black Horse [Northfield] stikes a poignant note in Hornton stone. The late Sidney Smithin, one of the school of masons trained by Franklin at Deddington, Oxford, became a craftsman with Hornton Quarries, and at his death he was working on a lintel for ‘The Black Horse’. During his last illness he worried that his work was unfinished, and in tribute to him the Birmingham Architect Charles Bateman, had the lintel fixed incomplete, with the name Sidney Smithin inscribed, and the date of his death. January 22, 1929.
The firm of Bateman and Bateman was formed by the Architect Charles E Bateman and his father. They designed several commercial buildings in the Midlands – largely in the ‘Arts and Crafts’ style. Sydney may have been involved in other buildings such as the Red Lion in King’s Heath and 89-91 Cornwall street in the city centre.
Sidney died, aged 67, on the 22nd January 1929 at Castle Street, Deddington, Oxfordshire; registered at Woodstock.247 Administration was granted to Emily on the 23rd April. His effects were valued at £134.248
It is probably Emily who is mentioned in a report of a concert in 1936.249
Banbury Advertiser, 2nd January 1936 Deddington Concert – A concert was given in the Church of England Schools in the afternoon of Boxing Day. The programmer was carried out principally by children, who had been well trained by Mrs. Smithin. Miss Weaver accompanied. The children carried out their various items in a praiseworthy manner, especially the sketch, ‘The Man in the Moon’. Miss Vera Weaver gave characteristic dances and solos wer given my Mr. Leslie Malings. The concert was repeated on Saturday evening. The proceeds were for Church funds, which will be greatly augmented
Emily died, aged 91, in 1966; registered at Oxford in the September quarter.250
Sidney and Emily are buried together in Deddington New cemetery.251
Burial - 6N 11 Sidney & Emily Smithen (1929)
Sidney and Emily had three children: Sydney (1899-1982), Dora (b.1901), Winnie (1903-1975).
Sydney Smithin (1899-1982). Sydney Gerald. The son of Sidney and Emily; known as Gerald. He was born on the 26th November 1899; registered at Woodstock in the March quarter 1900.252
At the 1901 census he was listed with his mother at home in Deddington, Oxford, age 1.
In 1906 Sydney was at the infants school in Deddington.253
Oxfordshire Weekly News 28 March 1906 Deddington. National Schools Diocesan Inspection. The Rev. Canon Teesdale examined these schools in religious instruction recently, and favourable reports have been received from him on each department. The following children are specially mentioned as having distinguished themselves. Infants’ School Class III Gerald Smithin.
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At the 1911 census, age 11, he was at home in Deddington.
Gerald won a prize in the Deddington Flower shown in 1913.254
Oxfordshire Weekly News 10 September 1913 Deddington Flower Show List of Awards Children’s Classes Collection of wild flowers. 1. Gerald Smithin Collection of wild grasses. 1. Dora Smithin Division II Amateurs Asters. 2. S. Smithin Dahlias 1. S. Smithin
Gerald enlisted in the Army during the First World War in late 1917 and like many others lied about his age (he was only 16). His medal card lists him as a Private in the Devonshire regiment.255
Medal card of Smithin, Sydney G Corps: Devonshire Regiment Regiment No: 32202 Rank: Private 1914-1920 WO 372/18
He may have been in the Intelligence Corps.
He spent a short period in the trenches before the war ended and was posted to Cologne, Germany as part of the army of occupation and spent several years there before being demobbed on the 23rd October 1923.
Gerald emigrated to Australia in 1923. He took up land in rural Western Australia and grew tobacco but was forced off in the 1930 depression. To survive he prospected for gold in the Eastern goldfields and eventually floated a Gold mine of his own.
Gerald sent a gift for his sisters wedding in Deddington in September 1927.
Sydney was listed in the Kalgoorlie Warden’s court in 1935. This was a court which deal with mining claims. 256
By Sydney Gerald Smithin, for G.M.L No. 1171R, Yarri. No objections lodged. Recommended.
Sydney met and married Constance Addie Saunders at Kalgoorlie. They were married on the 28th December 1940. They settled in Kalgoorlie.
There are several entries for Gerald in the Electoral rolls.
Australian Electoral Rolls, 1903-1954 1931 Forrest, Wellington, Western Australia Smithin Sydney Gerald, c/o W F Kennedy, “Hillside”, Benger, fm hd, 1936 Kalgoorlie, Menzies, Western Australia Smithin Sydney Gerald, Edjudina Gold Mine, Porphyry, fireman 1937 Kalgoorlie Mt Margaret, Western Australia Smithin Sydney Gerald, Edjudina Gold Mine, Porphyry, fireman 1943 Kalgoorlie, Greenough, Western Australia Smithin Constance Addie, 44 Lyall street, Boulder, home duties Smithin Sydney Gerald, 44 Lyall street, foreman, cyanide plant 1949 Kalgoorlie, Hannans, Western Australia Smithin Constance Addie, 44 Lyall street, Boulder, home duties Smithin Sydney Gerald, 44 Lyall street, foreman, cyanide plant
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Gerald died on the 28th February 1982 at Esperance, Western Australia.257 He is buried in Esperance Cemetery.258 He was described as a retired foundry officer.
Esperance Cemetery, Kalgoorlie, Western Australia Anglican 1038 SMITHIN, Sydney Gerald 28-02-1982 aged 82 years Burial: 30-01-1982 Minister: Father Gibbons Funeral Director: Esperance Funeral Undertakers Occupation: retired foundry officer Place of Birth: Deddington, Oxford, England; 58 years in WA Place of Death: cnr Corry & Emily Streets, Esperance Father: Sydney (sculptor/wood carver) Mother: Eunice (nee Manchip) Spouse: Constance Addie (Sanders) m: 28-12-1940 Kalgoorlie, WA Issue: Geraldine & John
Gerald and Constance had two children: John Moorhead Smithin (c.1941), Geraldine Constance Smithin (c.1942).
Dora Smithin (b.1901). Dora Kathleen. The daughter of Sidney and Emily. She was born on the 3rd February 1901; registered at Woodstock in the March quarter 1901.259
This was reported in a local paper.
Bicester Herald 08 February 1901 Smithin – Feb 3. at Deddington, the wife of Sidney Smithin a daughter
At the 1901 census she was listed at home in Deddington aged 2 months. At the 1911 census, age 10, she was at home in Deddington.
Dora won a prize in the Deddington Flower show in 1913.
It is possibly Dora who was a volunteer collector for the Nursing Association in 1923.
Banbury Guardian 11 October 1923 Deddington. Nursing Association A meeting of the collectors for Deddington was held in the Town Hall on Friday evening, when Mrs. Long presided. The amount collected for the quarter ending September was £19 16s. It is hoped tha the number of subscribers will increase and the collectors will be pleased to call upon any one wishing to join the association. The collectors are Miss Mullis, Miss G. Smithin, Mrs. Sirman, Mrs. J.H. Vincent, Mrs. Willams, Miss Smithin, Miss Gardner, Mrs. Rogers (Hempton), and Mr. G. Hawkins (Clifton).
Dora married Harold T Smith on the 10th September 1927; registered at Woodstock in the September quarter.260 261
Marriage licence for Dora Smithin Marriage at the Parish Church, Deddington 1927 Sept. 10th. Harold Thomas Smith, age 27, Bachelor, Builder, Residence. Deddington, Father. Thomas Smith, Solicitor’s Clerk. Dora Kathleen Smith, age 26, Spinster, Residence. Deddington, Father. Sydney Smithin, Sculptor. Witnesses. Sydney Smithin, Thomas Smith. By. Maurice Frost, Vicar
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The marriage was reported in a local paper.262
Banbury Guardian 15 September 1927 Deddington. Marriage of Mr.H.T. Smith and Miss D.K. Smithin A pretty wedding took place on Saturday last, at the Parish Church in the presence of a large congregation, between Miss Dora Kathleen Smithin, eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Sydney Smithin and Mr. Harold Thomas Smith, eldest son of Mr. Thomas Smith and the late Mrs. Smith of Deddington. The Rev. Maurice Fost (Vicar) officiated, and the service was fully choral. The hymns chosen were ‘The King of Love’ and ‘O perfect love’. During the signing of the register Farrant’s Anthem ‘Lord for thy tender mercies sake’ was beautifully sung by the choir, relecting great credit on the choir master, Mr. H. Long. Miss Weaver officiated at the organ in her usual efficient manner and played suitable music as the congregation assembled and Mendelssohn’s Wedding March as the bridal pair left the Church. The bride, who was given away by her father, was attired in cream georgette, trimmed with silver lace and pearls and wore a veil with wreath of orange blossom and carried a sheaf lilies. The bridesmaids were Miss Winnie Smithin (sister of the bride) Miss Beatrice Smith (sister of the bridegroom) and Miss Mary Newman (cousin of the bride). They wore shell pink georgette dresses, trimmed with silver beads – blue and green lacings, with silver leaves and net caps, and each wore a gold bangle and carried a bouquet of pale pink rose buds, both gifts of the bridegroom. Mr. H.A. Manchip was best man. After the ceremony a reception was held by Mr. and Mrs. Smithin at ‘The Mount’, the residence of the bridegroom’s father, when between forty and fifty guests were present. The happy couple left at 3.30 for the Isle of Wight, where the honeymoon will be spent. The dreses were supplied by Messrs. Shirer and Haddow, of Cheltenham, the bouquets by Mr. Wootton, of Banbury, and the cake by Messrs. McVitie and Price, of Edinburgh. While the congregation were awaiting the arrival of the bride a black cat was observed to stroll leisurely across the nave of the Church and this incident was attributed as an omen of ‘Good Luck’ by those who witnessed it.
The presents were as follows:- House linen and tea service, mother and father of the bride; cheque, bridegroom’s father; silver tea service, Miss K. Smithin; cheque, Mr. and Mrs. J Smithin ….. egg cruet, Mr. G. Smithin ….. blankets, Miss Winnie Smithin ….. Mr. Gerald Smithin (Australia) …..
Mr. and Mrs. J. Smithin were Gerald’s uncle and his wife.
Winnie Smithin (1903-1975). Winnie Muriel. The daughter of Sidney and Emily. She was born on the 28th March 1903; registered at Woodstock in the June quarter 1903.263 This was also reported in a local paper.264
Bicester Herald 17 April 1903 Births. Smithin – March 28, at Deddington, the wife of Sidney Smithin a daughter.
At the 1911 census, age 8, she was at home in Deddington.
She was a Post Office Telephonist working in Newbury in 1926.265
Winne was also listed in the books of post office appointments.266
Winnie M Smithin, 1926, Telephonist, Newbury Winnie Muriel Smithin, Telephonist, Oxford, Nov 1928
She was a bridesmaid at here sister Dora’s wedding in 1927,
Winnie married Cecil J G Smith in 1931; registered at Woodstock in the December quarter.267
Winne died, age 72, in 1975; registered at Windsor in the March quarter.268
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Kate Smithin (1862-1937). Kate Elizabeth. The daughter of Joseph and Charlotte. She was born on the 26th June 1862 and christened on the 3rd August 1862 in Birlingham; the twin of Sidney.269 270
At the 1871 census, age 8, she was living at home at Lower End Farm At the 1881 census, age 18, she was living at home at Lower End Farm
When the Smithin estate was sold in 1890 she moved with her mother Charlotte to Cheltenham.
At the 1891 census, age 25, Kate was living at The Mythe, Grosvenor Street, Cheltenham with her mother.
At the 1901 census Kate was living at 50 Grosvenor Street (The Mythe), Cheltenham and helping her mother to run a boarding house. The census gives her age as 28 but this is a mistake for 38.
At the 1911 census she was living in Cheltenham.271
1911 Census Deepdene Leckhampton Road, Cheltenham Mather Deborah Anna, head, single, age 79, Head of Ladies College retired, born Cockermouth Mather Frances H, sister, single, age 73, Teacher retired, born Bilston Smithin Kate E, friend, single, age 46, born Birlingham Sallis, Charlotte A, maid, single, age 24, servant general domestic, born Cheltenham
Kate was listed on an Electoral Register in 1930 at 7 Dagmar Terrace, Cheltenham.272
In 1937 Kate as living at Macara, Hewlett Road, Cheltenham.
Kate died, aged 75, on the 6th September 1937 at 1 The Elms, Swindon Road, Cheltenham. Probate was granted to her brother Hubert and her effects were valued at £23 18s 11d.273 274
Maud Smithin (b.1864). Maud Mary. The daughter of Joseph and Charlotte. She was born on the 26th September 1864; registered at Pershore.275 She was baptised on the 3rd January 1865 at Birlingham.276 She was the twin of Hubert.
At the 1871 census, age 6, she was living at home at Lower End farm.
Maud was a pupil at a School in Upton Warren at the 1881 census, age 16; the head of the school was a Marian Jones.277
Maud married Harry Charles Bulbeck on the 18th September 1888 in Birlingham; registered at Pershore. Harry (b.1863) was a Timber Merchant, born in Charlton, Sussex.278 279 280
At the 1901 census they were living at Maltraves Street, Arundel, Sussex. Their children were: Charles G F Bulbeck age 11, Reginald Knight Bulbeck age 10, Harry H Bulbeck age 9, Arthur Leslie Bulbeck age 7, Philip H (or D) Bulbeck age 1. There were also two servants Alice J Hammond born in Grove, Sussex a Domestic cook age 17, and Ethel A Clark born in Heybridge, Essex, a house maid age 16.281
The family later emigrated to Australia.282 They first sailed from London to Melbourne on the ship: Marathon on the 19th January 1911.283
Name: Mr H C Bulbeck Age: 47 Marital status: Married Occupation: Farmer
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Also on the same ship were:-
A L Bulbeck b. 1894 Charles G G Bulbeck b. 1890 Miss E M Bulbeck b. 1907 (Evelyn Mary) H H Bulbeck b. 1892 M M Bulbeck b. 1865 Master P D Bulbeck b. 1900 R K Bulbeck b. 1891
The journey took about a month.284
Victoria, Australia, Assisted and Unassisted Passenger Lists, 1839 - 1923 Name: Maud Bulbeck Age: 45 Arrival Date: 27 Feb 1911 Arrival Port: Brisbane, Australia Departure Port: London Ship: Marathon
Before and during the war the family lived at 35 Frederick Street, Maylands, Adelaide.
Arthur, Charles and Harry all joined the Australian forces in the First World War. Charles was killed in action at Noreuil in France on the 2nd April 1917. Both Harry and Arthur were wounded in separate actions.
As her husband had died by 1917 Maud and Reginald had to deal with the details of Charles’ death.
Charles was a bank manager in Australia and enlisted in the 27th Battalion, on the 9th September 1915, age 26. He had the rank of Lance corporal. He was transferred to the 50th Battalion on 2nd April 1916.
In 1916 Maud had written to the Army as there was report that both Harry and Charles were injured.
14th September 1916 Dear Madam
In acknowledging receipt of your communication dated 9th instant, concerning your two sons No. 1179 Private H H Bulbeck, 50th Battalion (late 9th Light Horse Regiment) and No. 3771 Private CGF Bulbeck, 50th Battalion, you will are now have received this office telegram dated 13th instant, informing you that you son No. 1179 Private H H Bulbeck is reported as having been wounded. The only advice received here was contained in a brief cable message dated 5/9/16, which merely intimated that he had been wounded, the nature of his wound and the name of the hospital in which he is located not being stated.
Upon receipt of any later reports you will be promptly notified, and in the absence of same it may be assumed he is progressing satisfactorily. It being the practice of the overseas Authorities to notify this Department of any serious change in condition.
No advice has been received here concerning No. 3771 Private C G F Bulbeck, 50th Battalion, consequently it may be assumed he is with his unit.
Yours faithfully. Officer i/c Base records
At this point the family were living at ‘Avonside’, Frederick Street, Maylands, Adelaide.
Noreuil was the scene of a fierce engagement between Australian troops and the Germans in April 1917.
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Charles was buried in the Australian cemetery Noreuil.
Reginald received his brothers’ effects on the 2nd January 1918, they had sadly been sent from England on the Marathon - the ship they had emigrated on a few years before.
After the war Maud had moved to Glen Osmond a northern suburb of Adelaide.
Maud wrote to the Army to state that she was the next of kin, this was in relation to the army sending out his war medals.
Wandeen Glennuga Avenue Glen Osmond Adelaide Novr. 23rd 1921
Dear Sir.
I am next of kin to the late No. 3771 L/Cpl C G F Bulbeck as he was unmarried and his father is dead. I am his mother.
Yours truly, M M Bulbeck
The medals and a memorial scroll were eventually sent to Maud. Charles was awarded the British Star, British War Medal, and Victory Medal.
Harry enlisted on the 11th May 1915
Harry was wounded in action in France on the 16th August 1916 and sent to Hospital in Oxford. He had received a severe gunshot wound to the abdomen.
He was sent back to France on 2nd January 1917 but thereafter seems to have been in and out of hospital until he returned to Australia on the 6th April 1917. He was discharged as medically unfit on the 1st October 1917. He was awarded the 1914/1915 Star and the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.
Maud was listed on the Electoral registers in 1943 and 1949.285
Australian Electoral Rolls, 1903-1954 1943, New South Wales, Warringah, Neutral Bay Bulbeck, Evelyn Mary, 23 Reed street, clerk Bulbeck, Maud Mary, 23 Reed street, home duties
1949 New South Wales, Bradfield, Turramurra Bulbeck, Maud Mary, 6 Park Avenue, Waitara, home duties
Hubert Smithin (1864-1942). The son of Joseph and Charlotte. He was born at 9am on the 24th September 1864 and was baptised on the 3rd January 1865 in Birlingham.286 287 He was the twin of Maud.
At the 1871 census, age 6, Hubert was living at home at Lower End farm. At the 1881 census, age 16, he was living at home at Lower End farm.
At the age of 25 in 1890 when the Smithin estate was sold he was living at home working on the estate. He helped his brother Joseph deal with the sale.
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Letter from Mr E G Righton, Evesham, to Mr J Martin (c.1890)
Dear Sir,
I have just seen Mr Joseph Smithin and he will be here at half past three (3) on Monday afternoon and have with him Mr Hubert Smithin. I will meet you as you say on Tuesday.
Yours faithfully E G Righton
Letter from Hubert Smithin to Mr J Martin Birlingham March 18th 1890
Dear Sir,
My brother is quite willing to have a lease for Mr Snowsell for seven years providing it will not make any difference supposing it was to be sold in a year or two.
I am Yours Truly H Smithin
Letter from Joseph Smithin to J Martin To Mr J Martin Esq. Pershore Cleeve Prior November 13th 1890
Dear Sir,
I should not sell to Mr S Phelps under £750 at present or the building at less than £300. For I think it will be quite as well for it to wait for a time. Hubert must see about the [---] supports and if they cannot be found he must have fresh ones put in.
I am Yours Truly J Smithin
Letter from Charlotte Smithin to Mr J Martin Avonside, Birlingham, January 20th 1890
Dear Mr Martin,
My son Sidney returned to business early last week and Hubert is from Home for a few days so neither of them could call upon you today, but if you want to see the deeds which are not in the bank I shall be at home any day it is convenient if you do come over.
I am Very Truly Yours C Smithin
It was Hubert who had the sad duty of showing prospective bidders around the estate.
To view apply to Mr Hubert Smithin, Birlingham; and for further particulars, with Plans and Conditions of Sale as to Lot 1 to Mr Harry J Smith, Solicitor, Moreton-in-Marsh; and as to all the lots to Mr Joseph Martin, Solicitor. Pershore, and to the Auctioneer, Evesham and Pershore.
Hubert then helped his mother move to Cheltenham.
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Letter from Joseph Smithin to Joseph Martin, Pershore Cleeve Prior, November 6th 1890
Dear Sir,
I have signed the enclosed agreement. The wooden supports you speak of were sawn off in mistake unknown to my Mother or brother. If he requires it they will be replaced. They have taken some of the good trees and plants to Cheltenham but I should not think a man of Mr Shelton’s position would trouble about such a small matter.
I am Yours Truly
J Smithin
At the 1891 census Hubert was lodging in Cleeve Prior.288
1891 Census Manor House, Cleeve Prior Juliana Holton Head, age 67, Farmer, born Cleeve Prior William H G Hierns Son in law, age 37, Farmer, born Church Honeyborne Julia Hierns Daughter, age 33, born Cleeve Prior Hubert Smithin, Boarder, age 25, Farmer, born Birlingham Elizabeth Lyne Servant, age 23, Domestic servant, born Gloucestershire, Mickleton Mary A Willis Servant, age 27, Domestic servant, born Gloucestershire, Willersey
At the 1901 census Hubert, age 36, was single and living on his own at The Bridge Moor, Moor village and was described as a Farm Bailiff. He was the farm bailiff at nearby Spring Hill farm where he met Ethel Oxley who was the governess to the children of the tenants of Spring Hill farm (Ernest and Elizabeth Bomford).289
Ernest Bomford died in March 1901 (he suffered from Diabetes) so a large part of running the 600 acre farm must have fallen on Hubert. There seem to have been 10-20 farm workers in all.290
Hubert married Ethel on the 23rd December 1903 in Salford Priors. The witnesses were Charlotte Adelaide Oxley, Christiana Oxley and James Robert Oxley.
Robert was Ethel's brother and Charlotte was his wife.
The Banns were read on the 29th November, 6th December, 13th December 1903.291
Ethel Oxley (1872-1949) was born on the 17th April 1872 in Malmesbury, Wiltshire. At the 1881 census, age 8, her family were living in Warwick Road, Yardley, Birmingham and she was described as a Scholar.292 Ethel's parents were Henry William Oxley a Revenue officer and Christiana Booth of Pedmore born on 20th January 1850. Full details are given in another document.
At the 1901 census, Ethel, aged 28, was described as the Governess at Spring Hill. There were two other servants; Myra A M Hewins age 29, Domestic Cook, Ethel Davis age 18, Domestic Housemaid, and Annie Gladwin age 16, Domestic Nurse.
Hubert was involved in a heroic rescue in January 1901.293
Fladbury. Exciting rescue of sheep. We mentioned in another place that Mr. Ernest Bomford of Fladbury, and other neighbouring farmers, were believed to have lost a great many sheep by the flood. It now appears that a good number were, with great difficulty, rescued but Mr. Bomford actually lost 115.
Mr. Bomford had in his riverside meadows 200 ewes, due to lamb a month hence, and valued them at three guineas each. On Monday morning the water covered the meadows with about three feet of water, and the sheep were on the embankment.
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A boat was procured from Fladbury Mill and four of Mr. Bomford’s men started with intention of rescuing the sheep, but before crossing the Jubliee Meadow the boat, rushed by the current, came in such violent contact with the embankment that it capsized and upset the men in about six feet of water. The boat was submerged, and the shepherd washed with considerable force against a withy tree, upon which he scrambled, and sat for a considerable time with a badly scratched face. The other three men were still struggling for life. Two of them must have been drowned but for the swimming abilities of the bailiff, Mr. Smithin. Messrs. T and A Stephens went to the rescue with another board, and brought in three of the the men safe to shore, while another board had to be procured to land the Shepherd.
In 1906 Hubert was involved in a court case.294
Gloucester Citizen, Wednesday 10th October 1906 Pershore and Birlingham Visitors At Pershore, on Tuesday, George Payne, Nechells, Park Road, Birmingham, and Arthur Poutney, Holborn Hill, Birmingham, were charged with stealing 15-1/2 lbs of growing apples at Fladbury on Sunday, September 9th, the property of Mrs E Bomford, at Spring Hill. Mr H Smithin bailiff to Mrs Bomford, said they suffered a great deal through Birmingham people coming there for fishing contests etc. They were a perfect nuisance …
In 1907 Ethel took the children to see the 'Royal Wedding' at Wood Norton so called because two of the wedding guests were King Alfonso of Spain and his wife. The Bomford children were: Janet Helen Ferguson, James Ferguson (who took over the Management of the farm in 1920) and Mary Elizabeth Ferguson.
Hubert and Ethel's son John was born at Spring Hill in 1908. There is a picture of Hubert in about 1910 at Spring Hill with colleagues in the Conservative League.
Spring Hill is now a country house catering for weddings and coporate events.
At the 1911 census Hubert and Ethel were living at Spring Hill.295
1911 Cenus Spring Hill, Fladbury, Pershore, Worcs Smithin Hubert, Head, Married, age 49, Farm Bailiff, born Birlingham Smithin Ethel, Wife, Married, age 38, born Malmesbury, Wiltshire Smithin Hubert Henry, Son, age 5, born Spring Hill Fladbury Smithin Charles Oxley, Son, age 4, born Fladbury Smithin John Herbert, Son, age 2, born Fladbury Smithin Ethel Mary, Daughter, age 6 months, born Fladbury
Some time after 1911 Hubert and Ethel moved around Worcestershire and Warwickshire and his son John recalled living in several different places. John remembered living in Broadway last and they were there until he left school at the age of 16. They were probably living there from about 1917 to 1928. 296
There is an advert looking for a farm bailiff post in 1917; this may be Hubert leaving Spring Hill or one of his intermediate jobs before moving to Broadway.
Coventry Standard Friday 30th March 1917 Situations Wanted Farm Bailiff Manager, over age, experienced all branches farming; reason leaving farm let, References. – Smithin, Grendon Fields, Atherstone, Warwickshire.
Hubert was the farm manager at Top Farm and also at Orchard Farm which were large farms opposite each other at the very top end of the village. Top farm was owned by Thomas Edmund Wells (1855-1910), originally from Stratford, a Chicago businessman and one of the founders of the Quaker Oats company.
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Thomas Wells built ‘Wells’ Cottages’ on Leamington Road (completed in 1908). Several of these were occupied by workers from Top Farm and we think Hubert and Ethel lived in one of these cottages.
Wells’ Cottages, Broadway c.2000
Orchard farm was owned by Lady Maud Bowes-Lyon.
Orchard farm is next to 'The Courts' the home of the famous American Actress Mary Pearson (later Madam de Navarro). Ethel was apparently connected with the literary and artistic circle centred around the Courts; which included Elgar, James Barrie, Charles Turley Smith, A A Milne, A E Houseman and many others.
Hubert's granddaughter Diana remembers him as an old man with white hair and a white beard.
Hubert and Ethel moved to Cleeve Prior around 1928 possibly when Hubert retired and may have lived in one of the three cottages attached to Top farm in Cleeve Prior that Hubert's brother John rented.
Don Archer a Cleeve Prior resident recalled the following about Hubert.297
I also have boyhood memories of your grandfather Hubert. He was a very nice man but was nothing like such a dominating personality as his brother Joseph
Hubert was described as a retired farm bailiff when he administered his sister Kate's estate in 1937.298
Hubert died, aged 77, on the 19th April 1942; registered at Evesham in the June.299 He was buried in Cleeve Prior. The death was reported in the local paper.300 301
The death has also occurred, at Cleeve Prior, near Evesham, of Mr Hubert Smithin, formerly of Top Farm, Broadway, He was 77, and for a number of years was bailiff at Top Farm, Broadway to the late Mrs T E Wells.
After Hubert died Ethel went to live with their son John in Bidford on Avon.
Ethel died, aged 76, on the 26th March 1949; registered at Alcester in the March quarter.302
Ethel was buried at Cleeve Prior on Wednesday 29th March. This was reported in the local paper.303
Evesham Standard & West Midland Observer 1st April 1949 Cleeve Prior. Death of Mrs. Smithin. Mrs. Ethel Smithin, widow of Mr. Hubert Smithin, died at the home of her son, Mr. John Smithin at Bidford on Avon, on Sunday last. A native of Salford Priors, she
Page 58 of 68 had lived in Cleeve Prior since her marriage. She was 76 years of age. The funeral took place at the Parish Church on Wednesday, and was conducted by the Vicar the Rev. A. Matthews. In addition to the family mourners, there were a number of her old friends and neighbours present to show their respect and sympathy.
Hubert and Ethel had four children: Hubert (1905-1919), Charles (1906-1984), John (1908-1953), Mary (1910-2005).
Hubert Smithin (1905-1919). Hubert Henry. Known as Harry. The son of Hubert and Ethel. He was born in 1905; registered at Pershore in the September quarter.304
At the 1911 census, Harry, age 5, was at home at Spring Hill.
Harry died, age 14, from acute appendicitis and was buried at Broadway, Worcestershire; registered at King's Norton in the September quarter.305
Charles Smithin (1906-1984). Charles Oxley. The son of Hubert and Ethel. He was born on the 8th December 1906; registered at Pershore in the March quarter 1907.306
At the 1911 census, Charles, age 4, was at home at Spring Hill.
In 1925 Charles took part in a Scout’s concert in Broadway with his brother John.
Charles was involved in a sad incident in 1934.307
Gloucestershire Echo, Monday 9th April 1934 Search party’s Tragic find. Broadway farmer shot dead. Accident theory. Mr. Herbert Edwn Archer, age 54, a farmer of Cleeve Prior, near Broadway, was found dead on his farm on Saturday night with a gunshot wound in his head. After tea Mr. Archer went out with his gun with the intention of shooting wood pigeons and crows. He did not return. After 10.30 Mrs. Archer called on some friends where husband was in the habit of visiting, and, as she did not find him a search party was organised. Mr. Archer was found by Mr. C.O. Smithin of North Street, Broadway, lying on a ditch bank off Green lane, a section of his farm …
Charles married Alma Lloyd (1912-1979) in 1947; registered at Alcester in the June quarter.308
Charles and Alma lived in Cleeve Prior in Woodbine Cottage. Charles was an antiques dealer and furniture restorer and had a small shop at Bengeworth.
Alma died, aged 67, in 1979; registered at Birmingham, September quarter.309 Charles died, aged 77, in 1984; registered at Evesham in the December quarter.310
Charles and Alma had one daughter: Charlotte Smithin (b.1952).
Mary Smithin (1910-2005). Ethel Mary. The daughter of Hubert and Ethel. She was born on the 30th September 1910; registered at Pershore in the December quarter.311
At the 1911 census, age 6 months, Mary was at home at Springhill, Fladbury.
At the 1939 register Mary was living at The Midland Hotel in New Street Birmingham. She was working at a Hotel Housekeeper.312
Mary died, aged 94, in 2005; registered at Solihull in January.313
John Smithin (1908-1953). John Herbert. The son of Hubert and Ethel. He was born on the 22nd October 1908 at Spring Hill.314 He was probably named Herbert in memory of Susan Elizabeth Herbert a life long friend of his grandmother Charlotte.
At the 1911 census, John, age 2, was at home at Spring Hill, Fladbury.
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The earliest photograph we have is of him sitting on a five-bar gate in Fladbury in about 1913 with his brother Harry (Hubert).
Fladbury c.1913
In 1925 John, age 17, was involved, with his brother Charles, in a Scout concert in Broadway.315
Evesham Standard & West Midland Observer 21st February 1925 Broadway. Scouts’ Concerts Concerts organised by the Boy Scouts were held in the Lifford Hall, on Tuesday and Wednesday nights, and proved sucessful. A Scout drama, ‘Crossing the Rubicon’, depicted a Scout pluckily frustrating a burglar who was endeavouring to steal the Squire’s silver. The principal parts were well sustained by Charles Smithiin, A.E. Warren, John Smithin, W. Rose, Frank Warren, and R. Reed.
When he was a young man John rescued a girl from drowning in the Mill Race at Cleeve Prior on the 21st September 1916. About a year later he was awarded the Scout’s Silver medal with a certificate signed by Lord Baden Powell. The ceremony was held about a year later and was reported in the local paper on the 1st October 1927.316
Bromsgrove Advertiser Patrol leader John H Smithin, of the Beaver Patrol, has been awarded the silver cross for bravery in rescuing a girl from the River Avon at Cleeve Prior last September. The presentation is to take place at Scouts' headquarters on Tuesday at 7.30pm, when any friends of the scouts will be welcomed.
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Gallant Broadway Scout Presented with Silver Medal for Life-Saving The Scouts’ Hut at Broadway, on Tuesday evening, was the scene of an impressive ceremony, when Patrol Leader John Smithin was decorated with the Scout silver medal for life saving.
The ceremony was attended by a considerable gathering, including Madame de Navarro (who presided, in the absence of Mr. A F de Navarro General Sir Andrew and Lady Skeen Colonel Sidney , Mr J M de Navarro Miss Fanny Davies (the well known pianist), Mr and Mrs W J Marshall Mr and Mrs C S Drury, the Rev.,A Bonser Mr R H New Mr T Douglas-Johnston (late Scout master Broadway Scouts), Mr and Mrs C Lugg Mrs Burrows, Mrs Kemp and many others.
In making the presentation District Commissioner Towers said it was his pleasant duty that evening to present to P.L. J. Smithin the Scouts Silver Medal for Life Saving, for having saved a girl from drowning. It was a great honour to Smithin that he should have proved himself worthy of this medal; it was also an honour to the Troop, to the Scout-master and his assistants who had trained the boys to know what to do in an emergency. Scouts were trained to know how to act in emergencies of any sort and in ambulance and first-aid work. They did their best to make a good citizen of every Scout and taught them that they were not in the world by themselves, but that they should help all around them. He could assure them that this help was frequently given, although it did not often come before the public notice as it had done in this case. When a boy came to the age of 16 or 17 he became enrolled as a Rover Scout, when the higher branches of service were taught to him. Youths of to-day who were not Scouts were apt to take too selfish a view of life. The presentation was then made amidst prolonged applause.
Madame de Navarro said that it gave her great pleasure to be amongst the Boy Scouts again; she would like them to try to believe that it was their President who was talking to them, and she was glad to be able to say that his health was much improved and that he hoped shortly to be amongst them once more. (Applause). She congratulated John Smithin very heartily on having gained the Silver Medal, she was proud of him and was sure that the scouts and the village were proud that such an [honour] had fallen to [a] Broadway boy. To save a human life in such circumstances was a grand act, requiring high courage, and as long as he lived he would know that he acted up to the scout standard, which was a noble standard of self-sacrifice. It required that a scout should every day and all the time perform service and good acts towards other people and conquer all difficulties that came in the way. Acts formed habits, habits formed character, and character ruled the world. They should all try to emulate the scouts and be alert to do good things for other people. (Applause).
Madame de Navarro was the well known American actress Mary Anderson who had retired from the stage and moved to Broadway in about 1910 with her husband Anthony de Navarro, an American industrialist.
John married Kathleen Taylor (1913-1942) in 1936; registered at Evesham in the December quarter.317 They had a daughter Kathleen Diana (b.1938) and their grandchildren are John and Jacqueline Leavey
The marriage was reported in the Gloucestershire Echo.318
Former Broadway man married A large number of people gathered at Hampton Parish Church yesterday for the wedding between Mr John Herbert Smithin, son of Mr and Mrs Hubert Smithin, of Woodbine, Cleeve Prior (and formerly of Top Farm, Broadway), to Miss Cathleen Irene Taylor, daughter of Mrs and the late Mr Taylor, of New road, Hampton. The ceremony was performed by the vicar of Hampton (Rev. E Spencer Jones M.A) and the Wedding March was played on the organ by Mr C Brotherton. The bridegroom was formerly a member of the Broadway Boy Scouts, and wa also connected with the Broadway Cricket Club and the Conservative Association. He was for some time Scoutmaster at Willersey. The bride who was given away by her mother, looked very pretty in a dress of old gold. The bridesmaid was Miss Evelyn Taylor (sister of the bride). Mr C O Smithin (brother of the bridegroom) was best man. The happy couple, who received many useful presents, will make their future home at Erndell, Victoria road, Bidford.
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John was a farm manager for a consortium of farms in the Bidford area. He took an active part in the local agricultural community and started the Bidford branch of the National Farmers' Union and was the Secretary for several years.
John was a Special Constable during and after the second world war and was awarded a special commendation for delivering top secret documents from what is now GCHQ (Government Communications Headquarters) in Cheltenham to Birmingham during a heavy bombing raid in 1941.
John was involved in an accident in October 1941.319
Fine imposed at Evesham A fine of £1 with 15s. witnesses’ expenses, was imposed at Evesham Borough Petty Sessions on Tuesday on James A. Coldicott, of Court Farm, Offenham, when he was charged with driving a motor van without due care and attention in High Street, sham, on September 22nd. Mr. A.H. Cross appeared for the defendant.
John Herbert Smithin, Victoria Road, Bidford on Avon, said that while he was driving in the direction of the Town Hall, Evesham Coldicott’s van drew out from a line of traffic coming in the opposite direction, and came across the road. Witness could not avoid colliding with the oncoming vehicle and his car was overturned
Kathleen died, aged 29, at Erndell, Victoria Road, Bidford on Avon on the 18th September 1942.320
From about 1942 when his father Hubert died John looked after his mother Ethel at Bidford on Avon.
John was married a second time to Jill Canadine (b.1928) at St. Luke's church, Headless Cross, Redditch in 1950. They had two children John Smithin (b.1951) and Tim Smithin (b.1952).
John died, aged 44, at Bidford on Avon on the 4th January 1953; he had suffered from poor health for some years. His ashes are buried with his father and mother at Cleeve Prior.321
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Family Tree
1 IGI: Eliono Andrewes, christening 1596, Tewkesbury 2 WRO: Will of Thomas Smissen, 1670 3 IGI: George Androwes, christening, 1598, Tewkesbury 4 IGI: George Smissons, marriage, 1621, Tewkesbury 5 IGI: Elizabeth Andrewes, christening, 1599, Tewkesbury 6 IGI: Elizabeth Andrews, marriage, 1619 7 IGI: Anne Andras, christening, 1601, Tewkesbury 8 IGI: Margerit Andorose, christening, 1604, Tewkesbury 9 WRO: Will of Thomas Smissen, 1670 10 IGI: Margreate Androse, christening, 1605, Tewkesbury 11 WRO: Will of Thomas Smissen, 1670 12 WRO: Hearth Tax Returns, Birlingham 1662-1670 13 Birlingham Parish registers 1670 14 WRO: Will of Thomas Smissen 1670 15 WRO: Inventory of Thomas Smithin 1670 16 Birlingham Parish registers 1662 17 WRO: Birlingham Church Presentements 1670, 1674 18 Oxenton Parish Regisgters 1678-1721 19 Birlingham Parish Register 1681 20 IGI: Nathaniel Smeton, christening, 1636, Pershore 21 WRO: Church Presentments, Birlingham 1684 22 WRO: Will of Nathaniel Smithin 1684 23 WRO: Inventory of Nathaniel Smithin 1684 24 IGI Mary Smithen, marriage, 1663 25 IGI Samuel Godsaw, christening, 3 Aug 1676, Red Marley D'abitot 26 IGI Sarah Godsaw, christening, 1675, Red Marley D'abitot 27 Birlingham Parish Register 1660/61 28 WRO: Will of Thomas Smithin 1670 29 Birlingham Parish Register 1679 30 WRO: Will of William Peart 1719 31 WRO: Will of Thomas Smithin 1670 32 Birlingham Parish Registers, 1675 33 Birlingham Parish Register 1675 34 IGI: Joseph Smithin, christening, 1639 35 Birlingham Parish Registers 1718 36 WRO: Will of Joseph Smithin 1718
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37 WRO: Inventory of Joseph Smithin 1718 38 WRO: Will of Ann Smithin 1718 39 WRO: Inventory of Ann Smithin 1718 40 IGI: Anne Smithin, christening, White Ladies Aston, 1666 41 Birlingham Parish registers 1690 42 IGI: Anne Palmer, christening, Birlingham, 1692 43 IGI: Samuel Palmer, christening, Birlingham, 1695 44 Memorial Inscription, St James Birlingham 1767 45 Memorial Inscripitons, St James Birlingham 1732 and 1739 46 IGI Samuel Palmer born about 1642, marriage. 47 Victoria County History, Worcestershire, Birlingham 48 Memorial Inscriptions, St James Birlingham 1732 and 1739 49 IGI Elizabeth Smithin, christening, White Ladies Aston, 1667 50 IGI Elizabeth Smithin, marriage, Defford,1698 51 IGI Thomas Smithin, christening, White Ladies Aston, 1670 52 Birlingham Parish Registers 1710 53 Birlingham Parish Registers 1712 54 IGI Anne Godsaw, christening, Birlingham, 1674 55 IGI William Godsaw,christening, Birlingham, 1676 56 IGI Sarah Godsaw, christening, Birlingham, 1673 57 IGI William Godsaw, christening, Birlingham, 1641 58 Birlingham Parish Registers 1676 59 Birlingham Parish Registers 1672 60 Birlingham Parish Registers 1679 61 IGI Thomas Godsaw, christening, Birlingham, 1635 62 WRO: Birlingham Hearth Tax Returns 1662-1670 63 Birmingham City Archives: Taylor of Strehsham, Papers. MS 3375/4/420370. 2 Oct 1719 64 WRO: 705:358 2193 31 (i) - (v) and 705:358 2193 33 (i) - (v) 65 Birlingham Parish Registers 1725 66 IGI Joseph Smithin, marriage, Birlingham, 1729 67 Birlingham Parish Registers 1732 68 WRO: Inventory of Thomas Smithin, Birlingham 1732 69 Birlingham Parish Registers 1713 70 WRO: 705:358 2193 31 (i) - (v) and 705:358 2193 33 (i) - (v) 71 Worcestershire Chronicle 3rd September 1845 72 BCA: Taylor of Stensham, Papers. MS 3375/421374 1 April 1747 73 BCA: Taylor of Stensham, Papers. MS 3375/420376 16 April 1747 74 BCA: Taylor of Stensham, Papers. MS 3375/420377 16 April 1747 75 Birlingham Parish registers: 1753 76 Memorial to Sarah Smithin, St James Birlingham 1753 77 Birlingham Parish registers:1760 78 WRO: Worcester Quarter sessions order book Vol 5, 1773-1790 79 WRO: Worcester Quarter sessions order book, 2 Oct. 1770 80 WRO: Tithe Map of Birlingham 1774 81 WRO: Will of Joseph Smithin, 1780 82 Birlingham Parish Registers 1785 83 Memorial St James Birlingham 84 Birlingham Parish registers 1821 85 Memorial for Mary Smithin, St James Birlingham 1821 86 IGI: Ann Smithin, christening, Birlingham 1749 87 IGI: Ann Smithin, christening, 16 Apr 1748, Birlingham. 88 IGI: Ann Smithin, marriage, Norton & Lenchwick, 1771 89 WRO: Will of Joseph Smithin (1761-1807) 90 Family information from Elizabeth Newman 91 Memorial St Andrews, Cleeve Prior, Worcestershire 92 IGI: Anne Smithin, christening, Norton, 1770 (Father Smithin, Mother Anne ?) 93 IGI: John Rock, christening, Cleeve Prior 1781 94 IGI: Anne Smithin, christening, Norton, 1770 (Father Smithin, Mother Anne ?) 95 IGI: Ann Smithin = John Lunn 23 Jan 1794 Birlingham, Worcester, England 96 Birlingham Parish registers 1731 97 British Apprentices. SO/278 Thos Smithin. 1745 98 Memorial, Birlingham St James 1746 99 Worcester Journal, Saturday 23rd September 1876 100 Birlingham Parish registers: 1761 101 PRO: Wills. Edward Dix 1785 102 Birlingham Parish registers: 1788 103 Marriage Licence for Joseph Smithin & Margaret Rickets, 1788 104 WRO: 705:358 2193 33 (iv) 105 The National Archives; Kew, Richmond; Surrey, Land Tax Redemption Office: Quotas and Assessments, IR23; Piece: 98 106 UK, Poll Books and Electoral Registers, 1538-1893 107 The Athenaeum: A Magazine of Literary and Miscellaneous Information. Page 100 by John Aikin 108 Memorial, Birlingham, St James, 1807 109 Birlingham Parish registers: 1807 110 WRO: Joseph Smithin, Administration 1808
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111 PRO: Administrations. Joseph Smithin. 7 May 1808 112 PRO: IR/26/423. Administration of Joseph Smithin (1808) 113 Index to Death Duty Registers 1796-1903 National Archives reference IR27/91 114 Death Duty registers index 1796-1811. IR27/91 115 S Lewis Worcestershire General and Commercial Directory for 1820. 116 Birlingham Parish registers: 1836 117 S Lewis Worcestershire General and Commercial Directory for 1820. 118 Birlingham Parish registers: 1791 119 Birlingham Parish registers: 1793 120 WRO: Worcestershire Quarter Sessions Rolls, Epiphany 1817. Ref:1/1/626/199-200 121 1841 Census UK, Birlingham, Worcestershire. HO107/1204/9 122 1851 Census UK, Birlingham, Worcestershire. HO107/2045 Folio 132 123 Birlingham Parish registers: 1851 124 1841 Census, Birlingham, Worcestershire. HO 107 / 1204/9 125 Birlingham Parish registers: 1843 126 GRO: Deaths Thomas Smithin, Jun.1843, Pershore 18 295 127 Memorial. St James Birlingham 1843 128 Worcestershire Probate Index 1600-1858 129 Index To Death Duty Registers 1796-1903. Birlingham. IR27/125 130 Billings Directory of Worcestershire 1855 131 Birlingham Parish registers 1789 132 IGI: Joseph Smithin, marriage Birlingham, Worcestershire, 1825 133 WRO: Conveyance, WRO 705:262 3940 134 WRO: 705:262 3940 135 Worcester Journal Thursday 15th May 1834 136 Worcester Journal Thursday 24th July 1834 137 1841 Census, Birlingham, Worcestershire 138 1841 Census, Eckington, Worcestershire. HO107/1204/15 139 WRO: Worcestershire Archaeological Society 3rd Series Vol 9, p30 140 Memorial. St James Birlingham 1850 141 Birlingham Parish registers: 1850 142 1851 Census, Birlingham, Worcestershire. HO 107 / 2045 143 Worcester Journal, Thursday 21st November 1850 144 GRO: Deaths. Smithin Joseph. Sep 1851, Pershore 18, 30 145 Memorial. St James Birlingham 1851 146 Worcestershire Chronicle Wednesday 13 August 1851 147 WRO: 705:358 2193 31 (i) - (v) and 705:358 2193 33 (i) - (v) 148 Birlingham Parish registers 1826 149 GRO: Marriages. Anne Smithin = Phillip Lavers Treeby, June 1861, Cheltenham. 6a 684 150 1871 Census UK, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. RG10/2664. Folio 85. Page 26. 151 1881 Census UK, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. RG11/2569 Folio 91 Page 14 152 1891 Cenus UK, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. RG12/2043. Folio 76. Page. 11 153 1901 Census UK, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. RG13/2463. Folio 42. Page 12 154 GRO: Deaths. Philip L Treeby, 82, Jun. 1912, Cheltenham 6a 497 155 GRO: Deaths. Anne Treeby, Sep. 1906, Cheltenham 6a 242 156 Birlingham Parish registers 1827 157 WRO: 705:358 2193 31 (i) - (v) and 705:358 2193 33 (i) - (v) 158 1901 Census UK, Barnwood County Asylum, Gloucester 159 GRO: Deaths. Smithin Sarah, age 75, Dec 1903, Gloucester 6a 187 160 PRO: Letters of Administration for Sarah Smithin 1903 161 GRO: Death certificate for Sarah Smithin 1903 162 Littlebury's Directory and Gazetteer of Worcester and District 1879, Birlingham 163 Birlingham Parish registers. 1832 164 GRO: Deaths. Margaret Smithin, age 34, Jun. 1866, Northleach 6a 254 165 Birlingham Parish registers: 1866 166 Worcester Journal Saturday 26 May 1866 167 Birlingham Parish registers: 1835 168 1861 Census UL, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. RG9/1797 36 14 169 Salisbury and Winchester Journal, Saturday 19 Feburary 1870 170 1891 Census UK, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire 171 National Index of Wills from 1858, Mary Smithin, 1921 172 GRO: Deaths. Mary Smithin, 86, Sep. 1921, Cheltenham 6a 442 173 Cheltenham Cemetery and Crematorium. ID: 189520128 174 Birlingham Parish registers 1829 175 IGI: Joseph Smithin, marriage, Birlingham 1856 176 Birlingham Parish registers 1856 177 PRO: Marriage Licence. Joseph Smithin & Charlotte Butt, 26 Apr. 1856 178 Kelly's Directory, Worcestershire 1860 179 Worcester Journal, Friday 30th November 1860 180 1861 Census UK, Birlingham,Worcestershire, RG10/2104 181 Worcester Herald Saturday 30 September 1871 182 WRO: Will of Joseph Smithin 1875 183 Worcester Journal Saturday 2nd August 1873 184 GRO: Death certificate of Joseph Smithin, 1875 Birlingham
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185 Birlingham Parish registers 1875 186 Worcestershire Chronicle 14 August 1875 187 National Index of Wills from 1858, Joseph Smithin 1875 188 1841 Census UK, Martley Worcestershire 189 Births & Baptisms 1538-1975 Transcription, Charlotte Butt, bap. 5 Jan 1823, Staunton. Father: John Butt. Mother: Ann 190 WRO: Will of John Butt 1856 191 Kelly's Directory, 1880, Worcestershire, Birlingham 192 1881 Census UK, Birlingham Worcestershire 193 WRO: 705:358 2193 31 (i) - (v) and 705:358 2193 33 (i) - (v) 194 Littlebury's Directory for Worcestershire 1873 195 1891 Cenus UK, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire: RG12/2044/4/1 196 Kelly's Directory for Gloucestershire 1897 197 Gloucester Citizen, Friday 7th October, 1898 198 1901 Census UK, Cheltenham Gloucestershire 199 Berrow's Worcester Journal. 21 Feb 1903 200 PRO: Deaths. Charlotte Smithin, Dec. 1908, Cheltenham 6a 249 201 PRO: Death certificate. Charlotte Smithin. 19 Oct 1908 202 Gloucester Journal, Saturday 24th October 1908 203 Cheltenham Burial ground. 29416, Charlotte Smithin, widow, age 78, The Mythe Grosvenor Street, 22nd October 1908 204 Cheltenham Burial Board 24th September 1909 205 IGI: Joseph Smithin, christening, Birlingham 1857 206 GRO: Births, Joseph Smithin, Sep. 1857, 6c 207 WRO: 705:358 2193 31 (iii) - (v) 208 Birlingham Parish registers, 1858 209 PRO: Births. Francis Arthur Smithin, Dec. 1858, Pershore 6c 319 210 1871 Census. Meriden, Warwickshire. RG10 piece 3164 folio 56 page 3 211 1881 Census. Plumstead Kent. PRO ref RG11/0750 Folio 16 Page 26 212 Canadian Passenger Lists, 1865-1935, Mr Frank Smithin. Arrival: 6 May 1884. Vessel: Sarnia. Arrival: Quebec 213 Canada, City and Area Directories, 1819-1906 214 1901 Census Canada. West Nissouri, London. Ontario 215 University of Western Ontario. Diary of Catherine Fallows, Age During Diary: 60-65 216 Ontario, Canada. Marriages. Francis Arthur Smithin = Elizabeth Jepson, 13 Mar 1907 217 Jepson Family information 218 1911 Census Canada. West Nissouri, London. Ontario 219 Electoral lists. Middlesex East, Ontario, Canada, 1935 220 Cemetery: Zion Hill / 7th Line Cemetery Burial Place: Middlesex County, Ontario, Canada: 1937 221 UK Incoming Passenger Lists 1878-1960 222 Birlingham Parish registers: 1860 223 GRO: Births. Isabel Charlotte Smithin, Sep. 1860, Pershore 6c 333 224 WRO: Will of Theodore Butt 1877 225 GRO: Marriages. Isabel Charlotte Smithin, Dec. 1883, Pershore 6c 623 226 WRO: Notes on the sale of the Smithsend Estate c.1890 227 WRO: Notes on the sale of the Smithsend Estate c.1890 228 WRO: Notes on the sale of the Smithsend Estate c.1890 229 England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1858-2019. 1917 230 London Gazette. Issue 30771. 28 June 1918. p51 231 Birlingham Parish registers 1862 232 GRO: Births. Sidney Smithin, Sep. 1862, Pershore 6c 325 233 1881 Census UK, Surrey. RG11/0530 Folio 5 Page 4 234 WRO: Notes on the sale of the Smithsend Estate c.1890 235 Oxford Journal, Saturday 31 August 1895 236 Family information from John Smithin in Australia 237 GRO: Marriages.Sidney Smithin, Sep. 1899, Cheltenham 6a 941 238 Website. Deddington Online 2004 239 Family information from John Smithin in Australia 240 1901 Census UK, Deddington, Oxford 241 Website. Deddington Online, 2004 242 Banbury Advertiser, Thursday 28th, January 1904 243 Banbury Advertiser, 13th July 1905 244 Kelly's Directory for Oxfordshire, 1907 245 Kelly's Directory for Oxfordshire, 1911 246 Deddington News. November 2000 (reprint of article of historic interest) 247 GRO: Deaths. Sidney Smithin, Mar. 1929, Woodstock 3a 2103 248 National Index of Wills from 1858, Sidney Smithin, 1929 249 Banbury Advertiser, 2nd January 1936 250 GRO: Deaths. Emily Smithin, age 91, Sep. 1966, Oxford 6b 901 251 St Peter & St Paul Deddington, New Cemetery. Ref: 6N 11, 1929 252 GRO: Births. Sydney Gerald Smithin, Mar. 1900, Woodstock 3a 698 253 Oxfordshire Weekly News 28 March 1906 254 Oxfordshire Weekly News 10 September 1913 255 PRO: World War I Medal cards. WO 372/18 256 Kalgoorlie. The Western Argus, Australia, Tuesday January 29th 1935, Warden’s Court 257 IGI: Sydney Gerald Smithin. Birth: 26 Nov 1899, Deddingto. Death: 28 Feb 1982, Esperance, Western Australia 258 Esperance Cemetery, Kalgoorlie, Western Australia
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259 GRO: Births. Dora Kathleen Smithin, Mar. 1901, Woodstock 3a 921 260 GRO: Marriages, Dora K Smithin & Harold T Smith, Sep. 1927, Woodstook 3a 3255 261 Oxfordshire Marriages and Banns 1754-1930 262 Banbury Guardian 15 September 1927 263 GRO: Births. Winnie Muriel Smithin, Jun. 1903, Woodstock 3a 1063 264 Bicester Herald 17 April 1903 265 London Gazette. Issue 33180. 6 July 1926. p.35 Post Office Appointments 266 British Postal Service Appointment Books, 1737-1969 267 GRO: Marriages. Winnie M Smithin, Dec. 1931, Woodstock 3a 2885 268 GRO: Deaths. Winnie Muriel Smith, b. 28 Mar 1903, Mar 1975, age 72, Windsor Vol. 19 0713 269 GRO: Births. Kate Elizabeth Smithin, Sep. 1862, Pershore 6c 325 270 Birlingham Parish registers 1862 271 1911 Census, Cheltenham 272 England & Wales, Electoral Registers 1832-1932. British Library. SPR.Mic.P.260/BL.C.24 i483 273 National Index of Wills from 1858, Kate Smithin, 1937 274 GRO: Deaths. Kate E Smithin, age 75, Jun. 1937, Cheltenham 6a 391 275 GRO: Births. Mary Maud Smithin, Sep. 1864, Pershore 6c 355 276 Birlingham Parish registers 1865 277 1881 Census UK, Upton Warren 278 IGI: Harry Bulbeck, christening, 1863 279 GRO: Marriages. Maud Mary Smithin, Sep. 1888, Pershore 6c 457 280 WRO: Notes relating to the sale of the Smithsend Estate c.1890 281 1901 Census UK, Arundel Sussex 282 Family information from Charlotte Smithin 283 PRO: Passenger lists - Departures 1890-1960. BT 27 284 Victoria, Australia, Assisted and Unassisted Passenger Lists, 1839–1923 285 Australian Electoral Rolls, 1903-1954 286 Birlingham Parish registers: 1864 287 GRO: Births. Hubert Smithin, Sep.1864, Pershore 6c 355 288 1891 Census UK, Cleeve Prior, Worcestershire 289 1901Census UK, Moor, Worcestershire 290 Fladbury & Moor by Mollie Carney 291 Warwickshire Banns 1869-1919. DR0399/17 p.38 292 1881 Census UK, Yardley Birmingham 293 Worcester Chronicle 5th January 1901 294 Gloucester Citizen, Wednesday 10th October 1906 295 1911 Census, Fladbury. RG14/17725 296 Family information from Jill Greaves Rudge 297 Family information from Don Archer in 2001 298 National Index of Wills from 1858, Kate Smithin 1937 299 GRO: Deaths. Hubert Smithin, Jun. 1942, Evesham 6c 259 300 Gloucestershire Echo. Saturday 25 April 1942 301 Birmingham Daily Post,Tuesday 24th April 1942 302 GRO: Deaths. Ethel Smithin, Mar. 1949, Alcester 9c? 303 Evesham Standard & West Midland Observer 1st April 1949 304 GRO: Births. Hubert Henry Smithin, Sep. 1905, Pershore 6c 317 305 PRO: Deaths. Harry Smithen, Sep 1919, King's Norton 6d 80 306 GRO: Births. Charles Oxley Smithin, Mar. 1907, Pershore 6c 330 307 Gloucestershire Echo, Monday 9th April 1934 308 PRO: Marriages. Charles O Smithin = Alma Lloyd, Jun 1947, Alcester 9c 11 309 GRO: Deaths. Alma Smithin, 67, Sep. 1979, Birmingham 52 1050 310 GRO: Deaths. Charles Smithin, 77, Dec. 1984, Evesham 29 241 311 GRO: Births. Ethel Mary Smithin, Dec. 1910, Pershore 6c 287 312 1939 Register. Birmingham. RG101/5543J/003/20 Letter Code: QAZM 313 PRO: Deaths. Ethel Mary Smithin. Jan 2005, age 94, Solihull. C2G 137 314 GRO: Births. John Herbert Smithin, Dec. 1908, Pershore 6c 306 315 Evesham Standard & West Midland Observer 21st February 1925 316 Bromsgrove Advertiser, 30 Aug 1952. 317 GRO: Marriages. John Smithin & Kathleen Taylor, Dec. 1936, Evesham 6c 529 318 Gloucestershire Echo Tuesday 24 November 1936 319 Cheltenham Chronicle 18th October 1941 320 National Index of Wills from 1858, Kathleen Smithin, 1942 321 Abbreviations used in Endnotes GRO - General Register Office PRO - Public Record Office (National Archives UK) WRO - Worcestershire Record Office BCA - Birmingham City Archives IGI - Internation Genealogical Index FFHS - Federation of Family History Societies Birlingham Parish registers - Birlingham Parish registers, St James b. - born d. - died = married ad. - adopted
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c. - circa (about) fl. - floruit (approx or known date)
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