Will
Derived from Dorset History Centre; Reference: Ad/Dt/W 1722; Event Record Number: 36
Date of Will: 5th June 1716
Witnesses: William Chamberlin, (the mark of) Elizabeth Jeanes, Thomas Browne
| Beneficiary | Relationship to Testator | Bequest |
|---|---|---|
| Robert Shephard | Kinsman (son of testator’s sister Mary) | All plow tackling and all other goods except household goods that came with wife at marriage, and except all corn and cattle |
| Susanna Chamberlen | Wife (‘dear and beloved wife’) | All household goods that came with her at marriage, all corn and cattle, all other goods, credits and personal estate not previously given |
Notes:
- Susanna Chamberlen is named as sole executrix
- The will creates a clear division of the estate:
- Agricultural equipment and general goods go to the nephew Robert Shephard
- Livestock, grain, household goods, and remaining estate go to the wife
- The household goods that came with Susanna at marriage are specifically preserved for her
- This appears to be the same family as Joan Chamberlaine’s 1709 will – Robert Shephard was her grandson, and Bernard was likely her son who received only one shilling in her will
- The will shows typical yeoman-class assets: agricultural equipment, livestock, grain, and household goods
Grant of Probate: 9 October 1722, awarded to Susanna Chamberlain widow, Executrix