A
•if
HISTORICAL MEMORANDA
OF
BRECONSHIRE.
A COLLECTION OF
PAPERS
FROM VARIOUS SOURCES
RELATING TO THE
HISTORY OF THE COUNTY.
II.
BY JOHN LLOYD.
LONDON:
PRINTED BY THE BEDFORD PRESS, 20 & 21, BEDFORDBURY, W.C.
1904.
DA
74 o
PREFACE TO VOLUME II.
THIS volume opens with the memorable Trial of Edward, Duke of Buckingham,
for High Treason in Westminster Hall, in 1520, and the forfeiture of his immense
estates in Breconshire and elsewhere to the Crown.
This great event, coupled with the still greater of the Reformation closely
following, constitutes a marked epoch and divide line in the history of our County.
The old order of things was swept away, and the feudalism of the previous
centuries, and the power of the great Church of Rome, came practically to an end
together.
In these pages will be found recorded some of the incidents of this great
change, and translations of the Charter of Henry VIII to Christ College at Brecon,
and of the parts of the Valor Ecclesiasticus relating to the Archdeaconry of Brecon
are printed at length.
To illustrate parochial life, a complete copy of the Registers of Talachddu
parish during the eventful period from 1600 to 1679 is given, even at the risk of
wearying the reader.
The last 60 pages I had reserved for the History of the Great Forest of
Brecknock, but that space has been quite insufficient for the purpose, and I have
been reluctantly compelled to hold over a description of the important events that
have occurred, since the Inclosure scheme was passed in 1815-19, to another
volume.
The important River Usk and Canal question is still unsettled, and some
notes on the subject will be added at the conclusion of this volume.
Here and there in these pages I have again introduced a few pieces of a
lighter character, with the view of interesting and amusing the reader.
No pains or expense have been spared to have all copies of ancient documents
carefully made and verified, as upon their complete accuracy will depend in years
to come the value of this Work.
1904 JOHN LLOYD.
II.
CONTENTS.
PAGE
Trial of Edward, Duke of Buckingham, for High
Treason, in Westminster Hall, May 15,
1520 1
The Survey of his Possessions made in 1522 ... 5
Manors in Herefordshire owing suit at the
Court of Baili Glas, in the Castle of Brecon 12
Inquisition on the death of Edward, Duke of
Buckingham, held at Hereford, 1523 ... 12
Parliamentary Sales of Lauds, following on the
Surveys of 1650-51 13
Forest of Buchlyd (letter) 15
Buckland Old Mill 16
Manor of Llangasty Tal-y-Llyn 16
Blackmore Common 17
Grant to Lord Ferrers of Stewardship of the
Lordship of Cantesellef, 1412 17
Grant by Richard III of ,£60 to the Bailiff, etc.,
of Brecon for repairing the Town Walls,
1483 17
Grant by Richard III of Free Stones in the
Castle of Brecon to the Bailiff, etc., of
Brecon, for making a Stone Cross, 1484 ... 18
Dizen'd — Meaning of term 18
Old Times in Breconshire — the Ploughman's
Prize in 1835 18
Foel or Bare Hill— Several so-called in the
County 18
Larch Trees, Earliest Introduction of into
County, in 1778 19
My Wedding Trip to London, 1815 19
A Feast of Lampreys 20
The Valor Ecclesiaslicus, 27 Henry VIII, for
Breconshire and Radnorshire Parishes, in
Diocese of St. Davids, Translation of ... 21
Christ's College Grammar School at Brecon,
Foundation of by Henry VIII, by Grant,
1541, Translation of Grant 38
Notes on Christ's College 40
Priory of Malvern — Lands in Breconshire, Lease
for 99 years to Sir John ap Rice 41
Priory Lands at Brecon — Grant to Sir John ap
Rice, 34 Henry VIII 43
Rectories of Talgarth and Mara (Llanygonde)—
Grant of Frankalmoign to the Dean and
Chapter of Windsor for ever ... ... 45
The Prior of the Monastery of St. John and the
Vicar of the Church, Brecknock — An ar-
rangement or composition ... ... ... 47
Demesne Lands of the Manor of Llywel, Lease
of, 1581 49
Upper Cantercally Forest — Lease, 1555 ... 50
Demesne Lands of Dynas, etc. — Lease to Roger
Vaughan, 1566 51
Earl of Essex, Inquisition on Death of — (Ma-
nors of Piperton and Penkelly English),
1601 52
Water Corn Mills on River Usk — Lease by
Prince of Wales to Henry Pratt, Gent., for
21 years, 1624 53
Tithes of Crickhowell, etc., Sequestration of, by
the Commonwealth, for the Delinquency of
the Earl of Worcester, 1654 54
John Jeffreys of Abercynrig, an outlaw ... 55
Marquis of Worcester — Restoration ot Forfeited
Estates, 1677 57
Earl Talbot's Estate in Breconshire, Division of,
in 1783 58
Castell Einion Sais Lands (part of Earl Talbot's
lands), sold to the Penpont Family in
1783 61
Collection of Tithes in Llanspythyd Parish in
1817 62
Gwenddwr Charity — Letter as to Proceedings
to Recover Arrears, 1744 63
Turnpike Road over Trecastle Hill, Contract
for Repairs of, 1780 64
Ironworks (Old Breconshire) at the Forge and
Pipton, Supply of Cordwood, 1720, etc. ... 65
The Prebend of Trallong — Admission of the
Prebendary, 1804 73
Tithe in Hay Parish (setting out of), 1831 ... 75
Breconshire Men in India ... ... ... 75
Witchcraft in Breconshire, Prosecution for, 1789 75
High Floods, 1795 76
VI
CONTENTS.
PAGE
Gorwydd Meeting- House, Llangammarch, long
Lease of, from 1781 76
Seizure of Fishing Nets at Cefn Coed Cymmer
in 1820 77
Game and Fish, Preservation of, in 1820 ... 77
Weights and Measures in the Borough of
Brecon, Large Number Defective in
1822 77
Right-of-Way Case, or " Love laughs at Lock-
smiths," in 1835 77
Prisoners in County Gaol, Return of, in 1843 ... 78
Education in Breconshire, Elementary ... 79
The Crimean Winter, in Breconshire, of 1854, a
Letter 79
Burrough Manor of English Hay — Mr. Vaughan
of Trebarried's Recovery, 26 Geo. II ... 80
The Great Messuage, Town of Brecon, Convey-
ance, of 1622 .. .. 82
PAGE
Talachddu Parish Registers. 1600 to 1644,
Book I 84
Talachddu Parish Registers. 1640 to 1679,
Book II 106
Talachddu Parish Terrier, 1720 119
Talachddu Parish, Perambulation of, 1765 .. 121
Talachddu, Manor of, Court Leet Presentments,
1764 to 1843 121
Copper Mines in Talachddu Parish, Lease of,
in 1819 138
Talachddu Parish, Common Laud, enclosed in
1865 139
Waun y Gyfir Inclosure, Parish of Llauthew,
1813 139
Great Forest of Brecknock :
Chapter I. Early History 141
„ II. The Hill Causes 162
„ HI. The 1813 Trial... 174
^
'
The Trial of Edward, Duke of Buckingham,
FOR
HIGH TREASON AGAINST KINGE HENRY THE EIGHT,
BY HIS PEERS IN WESTMINSTER HALL.
MAY 16TH, 1520, 12 HENRY VIII.
[British Museum, Harl. MS. 2194, folio 12.]
KINGE HENRY THE EIGHT.
Thomas Duke of Norfolke High Steward of England at the Arraignement of Edward
Duke of Buckingham Earle of Hereford Stafford, and Northampton ; In Westminster
Hall a Scaffold was erected, a presence for the Judges, and benches made for the Peers
Rayled and Counterrayled about, and barred with degrees ;
The Lords appointed for this Tryal were :
Charles Brandon Duke of Suffolke.
Thomas Gray Marquesse Dorset.
John de Vere Earle of Oxford.
Henry Courtney Earle of Devon.
Thomas Stanley Earle of Derby.
George Talbott Earle of Shrewsbury.
Henry Bourchier Earle of Essex.
Charles Somerset Earle of Worcester.
Richard Grey Earle of Kent and
De la Ware
Fitzwarren
Willoughby
The Lord •{ Herbert
Cobham
Brooke and
Morley.
These all haveing taken theire places, the Duke was brought to the Barre and vppon
his Arraignement, pleaded not guilty and put himselfe vpon his Peers.
Then was his Indictment read, Vizt.
That the said Duke iuteudinge to exalt himselfe and to vsurpe the Crowne and
Dignity and Royall power of this Kingdome of England, and to deprive the King's Majestie
thereof That he the said Duke might take vpon him the same, (against his allegiance) had
the 10th day of March and divers others tymes before and after Imagined and compassed
the Kinges Death, and Destruction att London and elsewhere ; and at Thornbury iu the
County of Gloucester, and for the accomplishment of this his wicked intent and purpose,
the 24th day of Aprill in the ffowrth yeare of the Kings Raigne, he sent one of his
Chaplains called John de La-Courte to the Priory of Hentou in Somersetshire, which was a
howse of the Chartreux Monkes, the effect of whose messuage, was to vnderstaud of one
VOL. II. B
(2)
Nicholas Hopkins a Monke of the same howse, who was vainely reputed by way of
Revelackm to have fore knowledge of things to come, what should happen concerninge the
matters which he had Imagined ; which Monke caused the said De-la-Courte, first to
sweare vnto him not to disclose his wordes to any manner of person but only to the Duke
his Master, And then he declared that the said Duke his Master should have all willinge
him, for the accomplishinge of his said purpose to winue the favor of the People ;
De-la-Courte came back with this answeare and tould it to the said Duke att Thornbury
the morninge after, beinge the 25th of April!.
That the 22nd of July the same ffourth yeare, the Duke sent the said De la-Courte with
letters to the said Monke, to vnderstand further of such matters; And the Monke tould
him further againe for answeare, that the Duke should have all, And being asked, aswell
nowe as before, howe hee knew it to bee true, Hee said by the Grace of God; and with
this answeare also De-la-Courte now returninge, declared the same unto the said Duke
the 24th of July at Thornbury aforesaid.
That the said Duke, sent the same De-la-Courte againe to the said Monke with his
Letters, the 26th of Aprill, in the ffift yeare of the Kings Raigne, when the Kinge was to
take his journey into ffraunce, requiringe to vnderstand what should become of these
Warres, or whether the Scottish Kinge should in the Kings absence invade the Realme or
not ? the Monke (among other thinges) for answeare of these letters sent the Duke word
that the Kinge should have noe issue male.
That the said Duke the 20th day of ffebruary, and divers other tymes in the Sixt
yeare of the Kings Raigne beinge att Thornbury spake to Ralph Earle of Westmorland,
well there are two newe Dukes created here in England, but if ought but good come to
the Kinge the Duke of Buckingham should bee next in blond to succeede the Crowne.
After this the said Duke on the 16th day of Aprill in the said Sixt yeare of the Kings
Raigne, went in person vnto the Priory of Henton and there had conference with the said
Monke Nicholas Hopkins who tould him that hee should bee Kinge, wherevnto the Duke
said that if it soe chaunced he would shewe himselfe a just and a Righteous Prince.
The Monke told him he knew this by Revelacion and willed him in any wise to
procure the love of the Commons the better to attaine his purposed intencion.
The Duke att the same tyme gave and promised to give yearely vnto the said Priory
Six poundes therewith to buy a Tunne of wine, and further he promised to give vnto the
said Priory in ready money Twenty pounds, whereof Tenn poundes he gave in hand
towards the convayinge of water into the said howse by a Conduit, and to the said Monke
Nicholas Hopkins he gave att that present in reward Three poundes, and at another tyme
fforty shillinges, and att another tyme a Marke, and at another tyme Six shillings
Eight pence.
After this the 20th day of October in the Seaventh yeare of the Kings Eaigne and att
dyvers other tymes as well before as after the said Duke had sent his Chauncellor Robert
Gilbert vnto London there to buy certayne cloathes of Gold Silver and velvettes every
tyme soe much as amounted to the worth of Three hundred pouudes, to the intent the said
Duke might bestowe the same aswell upon Knightes Esquires and Gentlemen of the Kings
liowse and Yemen of his guard as vpon other the Kings subjectes to winne their favors and
friendshippes to assist him in his evill purpose.
Which Cloathes the said Gilbert bought and brought vuto the said Duke, who the
Twentieth Day of January in the said Seaventh yeare and divers other Dayes and yeares
afore and after did distribute and give the same vnto certeyne of the Kings subjectes for
the purpose above recyted.
That the Twentieth Day of March in the Tenth yeare of the Kings Raigne lie came to
the same Pryory and estsoones had conference with the said Monke to bee more fully
informed by him in the Matters above specifyed, att what tyme the Monke alsoe tould him
that hee should be Kinge.
The Duke in talke tould the Monke that hee had done very well to bind his Chaplayne
John de-la-Courte vnder the seale of Confession to keepe secret such matters, for if the
Kinge should come to the knowledge thereof it would be his Destruction.
That the said Duke the Tenth of July in the 10th yeare of the Kings Raigne and
divers other dayes and tymes aswell before as after did constitute more particular and
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severall officers in his Castles, honors Lordshipps and Landes, than hee was accustomed to
have, to the end they might bee assistant to him viider color of such offices to briuge his
evill purpose to passe.
Moreover that the same Duke sent vnto the Kinge the Tenth of May in the ninth
yeare of his Raigne for Ircence to reteyne any of the Kings subjectes whome it should
please him dwellinge within the Shires of Hereford Gloucester and Somerset and allsoe that
hee might att his pleasure convey divers Armors and Habilementes of warre into Wales to
the intent to vse the same against the Kinge, and to vsurpe the Royall power and
governement to himselfe.
Which suite for Lycence to have reteyners ; and to convey such Armors and habile-
mentes of warre the said Gilbert the 20th Day of May in the said Nynth yeare and divers
other Dayes before and after att London and Easte Greenewich, did followe labouringe
earnestly both to the Kinge and Counsell for obteyninge the same.
That on the 20th day of July in the said Nynth yeare the said Duke sent the said
Gilbert Hinton aforesaid to vnderstand of the said Monke Nicholas Hopkins what he heard
of him, and the Monke sent him word that before Christmas next there should be a change,
and that the Duke should have the rule and governement of the whole Kingdome of
England.
That the 20th day of ffebruary in the Eleaventh yeare of the Kings Raigne at
Blechingly in the County of Surrey the said Duke (said Robert Gilbert his Chauncellor)
did expect and tarry for a ty ma more convenient to atcheive his purpose, and that it might
easily bee doune, if the Nobles of the Realme would declare theire myndes together, but
some of them mistrusted and feared and that marred all.
That the same Duke on the 4th of November in the Eleaveuth yeare of the Kinges
Raigne att East Greenewich in the County of Kent said vnto one Charles Knevett Esq. :
after that the Kinge had reproved the L)uke for reteyninge William Bulmer Knight into
his service, that if hee had perceived that hee should have beene Committed to the Tower,
(as hee doubted hee should have beene) hee would have soe wrought that the principall
Actors therein should have had little Cause of rejoyceinge for hee would have played the
part, which his ffather intended to have put in practise against King Richard the Third att
Salisbury \vho made earnest suite to have come into the presence of the same Kinge
Richard, which suite if he might have obtayned he haveinge a knife secretly about him
would have thrust it into the body of Kinge Richard as hee had made semblance to kneele
downe before him, and in speakinge these words, hee maliciously laid his hand vppon his
dagger, and said that if hee were soe evill vsed hee would doe his best to accomplish his
pretended purpose swearinge to confirme his word by the bloud of our Lord.
That the same Duke the 10th of May in the 12th yeare of the Kings Raigne att
London in a place called the Rose, within the parish of St. Lawrence in Cimwicke street
demauuded of the said Charles Kuevett Esq. what was the talke amouge the Londiners
concerning the Kings journey beyond the Seas ?
And the said Charles told him that many stood iu doubt of that journey least the
French meant some Deceipte towardes the Kinge.
Whereto the Duke answeared : That it was to bee feared least it would come to passe
accordinge to the words of a certayne Holy Monke, for there is saithe hee a certayne
Chartreux Monke that divers times willed mee to sent vnto him my Chauncellor and I
did send vnto him John De-la Courte my Chaplayne, whome the said Monke told that
neither the Kinge nor his heires should prosper, and that I should endeavour ray selfe to
purchase the good wills of the Comminalty of England.
Then said Charles Knevett the Monke may bee deceived through the divell's illusion,
and that it was evill to meddle with such matters, well said the Duke it cannot hurt mee,
and soe the Duke seemed to rejoyce in the Monkes wordes.
And further att the same tyme the Duke told the said Charles that if the Kinge had
miscarryed in his last sicknes he would have chopped off the heades of the Cardinall of
Sir Thomas Lovell Knight and others and alsoe said that [he] had rather dye for it, than
bee soe vsed as hee had beene.
That on the 10th day of September in the llth yeare of the King's Raigne att
Blechinglie in the County of Surrey walkinge in the Gallery with George Nevill Knight
(4)
Lord Aburgavenny The. Duke murmuringe against the King's Councellors and their
governeraent said unto the said George that if the Kinge dyed hee would have the rule of
the Realme in spight of whomsoever said the Contrary ; And with all said that if the Lord
Aburgavenny would say that the Duke had spoaken such words, hee would fight with him
and lay his sword on his pate, and that hee bound up, with many greate oathes.
There were the speciall Articles and pointes of his Indictment : all which and any of
them the Duke denyed to bee true, and as he was an eloquent man alleadged reasons to
falsifie the Indictment pleadiuge the matter for his owne justification very earnestly and
pithily.
The King's Atturney against the Dukes reasons alleadged the Examinacions, con-
fessions and proofes of wittuesses.
The Duke desired that the witnesses might bee brought forth. And then came
before him Charles Knevet, Perke, De-la-Court, and Hopkins the Monke who like a false
hippocrite had induced the Duke with his false forged prophecies ; divers other pre-
sumptions and accusacions were layd vnto him by the said Charles Knevett which he faine
would have covered.
Then spake the Duke of Norfolke and said my Lord the King our Soveraigne Lord
Commaundecl that you should have his lawes ministered with favor and right vnto you ;
wherefore if you have any other t'ninge to say for yor selfe that shal bee heard.
Then hee was Commaunded to withdraws him and soe was led into Paradise a howse soe
named. The Lords went to Counsell a while, and after took theiie places.
Then said the Duke of Norfolke to the Duke of Suffolke what say you of Sir
Edward Duke of Buckingham touchinge the high Treasons, the Duke answeared, hee is
guilty and soe said all the rest.
The Duke was brought to the barre sore chafeinge and swettinge marvellously, and
after hee had made his reverence he paused a while. The Duke of Norfolke as Judge said
Sir Edward you have heard how you be Indicted of high Treason you pleased thereto not
guilty puttinge yor selfe to the Peers of the Realme who have found you guilty.
Then the Duke of Norfolke wept and said yow shal bee led to the Kings prison and
there layde on a hurdle and soe drawen to the place of Execuciou and there be hanged etc.
and God have mercy on your soule.
The Duke of Buckingham said my Lord of Norfolke you have said as a Traytor should
be said vnto, but I was never any, but my Lords I nothinge rnaligne for that yow have
done unto mee, but the Eteruall God forgive yow my death and soe do I, I shall never
sue to the Kinge for my life howbeit he is a gracious Prince, and more grace may come
from him than I desire ; I desire yon my Lordes and all my fellowes to pray for mee ;
Then was the end of the Axe turned towardps him and hee led into a Barge and brought
from thence to the Tower. Sir Thomas Lovell desired him to sitt on the Cushions and
Carpet prepared for him but he said nay for when I went to Westminster I was Duke of
Buckingham but nowe I am Edward Bohune the most Caitiflfe of the world ; Thus they
landed att the Temple where Sir Nicholas Vause and Sir William Sands receaved him and
led him through the Cittie as a Cast man to the Tower, On ffryday the 17th of May about
Eleaven of the Clock this Duke of Buckingham was brought by John Keyme and John
Skevington, Sheriffes to the Tower Hill, where he said hee had offended the King's Grace
through negligence and lack of Grace, and willed all Noble men to pray for him and
that hee trusted to dye the King's true man, Thus meekely with an Axe hee tooke
his Death.
>V. \KUIS.STAFKOUI
( oil :. •l/,r/-ier.>1/a</A{/:
• ,',/,.„-,,„ ./?,,' t>,'/r
( ..II -lit,,.,, Hi. .
(5)
Survey of the Possessions of the late Edward,
Duke of Buckingham,
ATTAINTED OF HIGH TEEASON. 1522, 13 HENRY VIII.
[Letters and Papers, Henry 8, Vol. Ill, Part i, No. 1286, formerly in the
Chapter House at Westminster.]
The veray valour and state of all and singnler suche Honors, Lordeshippes, Manors,
Rentes and possessions as lately were the Duke of Bukkinghams, nowe being in the
Kingges handes by reason of Attaintor of the saide Duke of hawte treason vewed and
Snrveid by Thomas Magnus and William Walweyn the xiijth yere of the Reingne of our
said soveraine Lorde Kinge Henrye viijth.
THE HONOR OF HEREFORDE.
WALES.— THE LORDSHIP OF BEEKNOK.
£ s. d.
The Lordeship of Breknoke called Brekenok Maner is in value . 29 15 4J
Landes there being in the charge of the Receiver called officium
Receptorisat . . 776 5 1 If
Primo Recognicio solvend in tribus Annis^ jfor ^ CQU
(The first Recognizance to be paid in V £506 13 1^ the town *
3 years) . . J
Sum of the lordship of Breknok except the first
Recognizance as above . . £806 1 3£
THE TOUNE AND CASTELL OF BREKNOK.
The toune of Breknok is a veray propur walled tonne well buylded and aswell paved with
many honoste inhabitauntes in the same encloosed on the west side therof with the castell
which is a good and a stronge holde with all houses of offices and loggingges buylded after
the oolde facion. Except there is a goodly hall sette on heght, oonly with lightes in aither
ende, and noon vpon the sides. And as vnto the Rooff of the said Hall it is newly and
costuly made with pendauntes after a goodly facion. And into the said Castell water is
conveid by condayt. And aboute the said castell doo gooe two rynnyng Rivers.
THE MANRODE.
The noumbre of the Manrode ther (tenants) . | fa the country 1146 }
KNIGHTES FFEES.
John Waldebeif holdeth a knightes ffee in Girdorthall de Thorp in Co. Hereford.
John sonne of Mathewe Mans holdeth halve a knightes ffee in Humbre. (Hurnber.)
John le Mortymer holdeth the 4th parte of a knightes fee in Testeste Hormaster.
(Tedstone Wafer.)
William de la Mare holdeth a knightes fee in Testeterne de la Mare. (Tedstone
De la mere.)
James Erie of Ormonde holdeth halve a knightes fee in Lastres. (Laysters.)
Rogier ffraunces and John Fraunceys hoolde halve a knightes fee in Ormonde.
(6)
Stephen rte la Barn we holdeth the 4th part of a knightes ffee in Weston bret.
Thomas de ffraxino holdeth halve a knightes fee in parva Couherne. (Little Cowarne.)
Richarde de la here (Chivalier) holdeth halve a knightes fee in Stratfod. (Stretford.)
Richarde de la here (Chivalier), holdeth halve a knightes fee in Borleton. (Burlton.)
William de Bero holdeth a knightes fee in Kingeston. (Kingstone.)
The heires of William Lucy holdeth a knightes fee in Kingeston.
John de Gynforde and Elizabeth de Penbrugge hoolde a knightes fee in Borghull.
(Burghill.)
Grymbalde Pauncefote holdeth halve a knightes [fee] in Couherne. (Cowarne.)
John Syfrenos holdeth the 3rd parte of a knightes ffee in the same tonne.
William Wroth holdeth the 3rd parte of a knightes fee in the same tonne.
Richarde de Baskervill holdeth halve a knightes fee in Irdeslegh and Balinghull.
(Eardisley and Bollingham )
Robert of Whiteney holdeth a knightes fee in Whiteney. (Whitney.)
John Clanemove holdeth halve a knightes fee iu Horegaste. (Hergest.)
The heires of Richard ffrene and Walter Deverose holdeth a knightes fee in Mokkes and
Sutton. (Moccas and Sutton.)
Robert Kendall holdeth a knightes ffee in Avenebury. (Avenbury.)
John Hereforde holdeth halve a knightes fee in the Venne. (Venn or Vern.)
Richarde de Bauden holdeth halve a knightes fee in Bouden. (Township in Bodenham.)
Edmunde Erie of March holdeth 2 knightes fees in Presthemede. (Presteign.)
John Poinz holdeth halve a knightes fee in Throleton.
Peter de la Mare holdeth 2 knightes fees in Litle Hereford. (Little Hereford.)
John Mortymer holdeth halve a knightes fee in Penkethlyn. (Penkelly, Brecon.)
Rogier Waghern holdeth the 4th parte of a knightes fee in the same towne.
John Picharde holdeth halve a knightes fee in Scatherok. (Skethrog, Brecon.)
John Waldebeiff holdeth a knightes fee in Lanhamelok. (Llanhamlach, Brecon.)
Thomas Peytevyn holdeth halve a knightes fee in Peytevenescastell (Peytyn, Brecon.)
Agnes de la Bere holdeth the 4th part of a knightes fee in Langhoe. (Llangoed, Brecon.)
Edmunde of Haklet holdeth halve a knightes fee in le Venne inferior. (Vennyfach,
Brecon.)
Edmunde Erie Marche holdeth halve a knightes fee in Little Freme. (Little Frotne,
Hereford.)
The heires of Hugh Monyngton hoolde have a knightes fee in the Hull (whole of) in the
county of Hereford.
William Manne holdeth halve a knightes fee in Rous Manne in the County of Hereforde
foresaide (Rosemaund, near Cowarne, co. Hereford).
Richarde de la bere holdeth halve a knightes fee in Hopton Havernell.
Thomas Curiall (Jun.) ap Gwatkyu Jevan ap Gilbert William a Howell Vaughan and
Kilwhiban bolgoit (Cilwhibarth and Bolgoed) holde halfe a knightes fee in Alisaun-
dreston. (Alexanderstone, Brecon.)
BOWNDB MEN.
Boude men divers and all poor <fcc.
AVOUSON OF CHURCHES.
TheAvouson of the priorye of monkes of the order of saint Benet there. (Benedicts,
Brecon.)
The Avouson of the priorye of brothers of the order of saint Domynik there. (Dominicans
Brecon.)
The Avouson of the church of Llan Migan. (Llanfigan, Brecon.)
The Avouson of the church of Llau de Weyloge. (Llandefaelog, Brecon.)
The Avouson of the church of Mannor Wyno. (Vaynor, Brecon).
The Avouson of the church ofCarcery. (Cantref, Brecon.)
The Avouson of the church of Penderyn. (Peuderyn, Brecon.)
The Avouson of the church of Glintawe. (Glyntawe, Brecon.)
The Avouson of the church of Llanbrenaghe. (Llanfrynach, Brecon.)
(7)
A FORRESTE.
The fforeste there is large and the King (is) answerde of the herbage. Suche game
as there is of redde dere goith at large withoute kepiug or any charge to the King for
the same.
WALLIA. A MERE OR A STANKE.
There is a great mere or Stanke of water conteynnyng in lenght nigh 3 myles and
bredeth a myle well replaynnysshed with fisshe and specially with bremes. In ffearme for
40*. per Annum.
THE OFFICE OF STEWARDS.
The office of High Stewardeship of Breknok with the Stewardeshippes of Hay Huntingdon
and Cantercelly lately occupyed by the Lorde Staftbrde as is said during pleasur at
There be assigned to be Levetenauntes by Thomas Magnus and William Walweyn
3 parsons oon called Ll'n ap Morgan a Kidde and a soobor gentilman of good substaunce
being suche oon as is mete for the well ordering and ruling of the contray and for leding of
the men if he soe be commaunded. An other called John \Valdebeiff Welsheman being a
sadde and an honeste anncyent personuage of fair landes and practised boothe in the lawes
of Englande and Wales. And the 3de is Hugh Marven Einglissheman being wise and well
practised in thoos parties and suche oon as well haith conveid hym self in thoos said
parties.
OFFICES AT THE KINGES PLEASURE.
The office of Receiver there is occupied by Hugh Marven and for the exercising therof he
and good suerties with hym be bouuden by recognisaunce in the somme of 500 marks.
The ffee thereof, £10.
The office of Constableship of the Castell at £6 13s. id.
.The office of porter of the same Castell, 2d. per diem.
The office of Shereiff withoute ffee.
The Bailly arraunt withoute ffee.
The office of Ringgilde without ffee.
The office of Maister Sergeaunt assingned by Thomas Magnus and William Walweyn to the
above named Ll'n ap Morgan the Kingges servaunte withoute ffee.
The offices of 7 other Sergeauntes passe by eleccion every of thaym withoute ffee.
WALLIA.— THE LORDSHIP OF HAY.
£ s d.
The Lordship of Haye called Haia Anglicana is in value . .1726
The Burgage of the Hay at . . . . . 11 15 8£
Hay called Haia Wallenc . . . . 45 11 2|
Prima Recognicio soluend in tribus annis (The first Recognizance to be paid
in 3 years) . . . . . . 20 0 0
THE MANRODE.
The noumbre of the Manrode there (tenants), 100.
THE TOUNE AND CASTELL.
The toune an oolde ruynous thing soor decaid.
The Castell an oolde ruynous decaid thing.
KNIGHTES FFEES.
The Lorde of Fferrers holdeth a knightes fee called Llan Thomas. (Llanthomas.)
Rogier Vaughan holdeth halve a knightes fee there called Kilonowe. (Rilonw.)
The prior of Breknok holdeth halve a knightes fee there.
John Walbeiff holdeth halve a knightes fee there called Welbeiffes fee.
(8)
THE FFORRESTE.
Off the fforreste the King is ansuerde in sommes afoor boothe of the herbage and
pawnage. Suche game as is ther gooth at large.
OFFICES AT THE KINOES PLEASURE.
The Stewardeship gooth with Breknok.
There be assingned by Thomas Magnus and William Walweyn to be levetenauntes
Robert of Whitnay the Kingges servaute and Robert Whitnay his vncle.
The office of Receiver ther occupied by the said Hugh Marven gooth with Breknok.
The office of Constable of the Castell there occupied by Watkyu j 10Qs Annum.
Vaughan of Glasbury at • 3
The office of porter of the same Castell occupied by the same ) ^ ^.^
Vaughan at • • • • I
Summa Dominii de Hay, prefer primam Recognicionem ut supra. (Sum of the lordship of
Hay except the first Recognizance as above.) . £74 9s. 6d.
WALLIA.— THE LORDSHIP OF CANTEECELLY.
£ ». d.
The valoure of Breulles (1) (Bronllys) . 14 6 4£
The office called officium Ringilde (Summoner of the Court) . 5 19 6f
The office called officium Semmonitoris . . . 11 13 6£
The office called Garcio prepos (Head Groom) . 3 0 11
The Agistyment and pawnage of the fforeste . . . .900
Prima recognicio soluen'd in tribus Annis (the first recognizance to be paid in
three years . . . . • . 66 13 4
THE MANRODE.
The noumbre of the manrode there (tenants), 400.
THE CASTELL.
The Castell called Breulles is decaide and mete for noe thing but for prisonners.
KNIGHTES FFEES.
The Lorde Fferrers holdeth a knightes fee in Pepirton. (Pipton).
Thomas ap Rocer ap Madoc holdeth a knightes fee and a quarter in Aberlleveny and
Trevethell. (Aberllynfi and Trevithel.)
William Gunter and Thomas ap Thomas Walter holdeth halve a knightes fee in Tregoide.
(Tregoyd.)
Thomas ap Jenkyn Vaughan and Herry Vaughan and Meredith ap Jenkyn Vaughan holde
halve a knightes fee in Alereskeyre. (Aberyskir).
Phelpot Solers Dauid Lloide ap Res William Vaughan hoolde a knightes fee in Pontewall
Porthammell and Trephelip. (Pontywal, Porthammal, and Trephilip.)
David Lloid ap Res and Thomas ap John hoolde a knightes fee in Trehenre. (Trehendre.)
Item a hoole knightes fee in Brontelles nowe in the Kingges hands by a forfaite. (Bronllys.)
WABDES.
Nicholas Walweyn in the Custody of Hugh Marven having landes in hande
40s. and revercion ...... £26 13 4
Memorandum that the Baron of Burforde bought of the Duke of Bukkingham a warde
called Edmunde de la Mare and as yet haith not paid for hym, the specialties muste be
serched for.
Memorandum there is due for the dukes party yerely for oon Haklet within £ a. d.
age soolde as it is said by the King to oon John Braynton in Hereforde-
shire (A ward of the family of Hakluyt) . . . .400
Summa Dominii de Cantercelly preter primam Recognicionem ut supra (Sum
of the lordship of Cantercelly except the first Recognizance as above) . 44 0 5
(9)
THE FFORESTE.
The fforreste there is large and the King is ansuerde booth of the herbage and
Pawuage. Suche game as is there of red dere gooth all at large withoute keping or any
charge to the King for the same.
OFFICES AT THE KINGGES PLEASURE.
The Stewardeship goeth with Breknok.
There be assigned by Thomas Magnus and William Walweyn to be Levetenauntes
Harry Mile Squier and John Lewes Hawarde.
The office of Receiver there occupied by the said Hugh Marven goothe with Breknok.
The office of Portership of the Castell called Brenlles occupied by John Lues Hawarde
at 3d. per diem.
WALLIA.— THE LORDSHIP OF PENKELLY.
£ s. d.
Penkelly called Penkelly Anglicana . . . . 18 3 1J
Penkelly called Penkelley Wallenc' . . 5 10 9
Prima Recognicio soluen'd in tribus annis (The first Recognizance to be paid
in three years) . . . . . 33 6 8
Alisaunderston . . . . . .500
THE MANRODE.
The noumbre of the manrode there, 120.
A WOOD.
There is a litle woode which wolde be soolde by cause it is barked by wilde
people of the contrey at the chaunge conteynnyng by estimacion 4 Acres.
The Acre at 33». 4rf. . . . . 6 13 4
BARONS FFEES.
Twoe partes of a Barons flee in the Kingges handes Richarde Herbert Knight holdeth
2. partes of a barons fee. Richarde Vaughan Knight holdeth one parte of a Barons ffee.
John ap Jevan ap John holde oon parte of a barons fee whereof the same John ap
Ho'll Madoc John ap Jevan hathe 2 partes and John ap Ho'll the third parte.
TENNAUNTES BY KXIGHTES FFEES.
Howell Gunter.
John ap Watkyn ap Howell.
Roger Vaughan.
Sumiua Domiuii de Penkelly et Alisaunderston preter primatn Recognicionem
ut supra. (Sum of the lordship of Penkelly and Alisauuderston besides
the first Recognizance as above) .... £28 13 10J
WALLIA.— THE LORDSHIP OF HONTINGDON (HUNTINGTON).
£ s. d.
The charge of the bailliship there called Hontingdon Ballivus Anglicanus is
in value - . . , . . . . 36 2 7£
The Lordeship of Kington called Kington villa . . 3 15 4
The Bailiship of the Hondreth of Hontingdon . . 2 4 10
Hontingdon called Hontiugdon Walleno' . . . . 10 19 Of
FIRST RECOGNIZANCE.
Prima Eecognicio soluen'd in tribus Annis. (The first Recognizance to be paid
in 3 years) . . . . . 40 0 0
VOL. II. C
(10)
THE MANRUDE.
The noumbre of the manrode there (tenants), 141.
THE TOUNE OF HUNT.
The toune of Hontingdon in maner is decaide.
THE CASTELL OF HUNT. (HUNTISGTON.)
The Castell all decaide except a toor for kepiug of prise-oners.
KNIGHTES FFEES.
James Baskervile holdeth Erdisleigh (Eardisley) and Bolinghall (Bollingham) by . . .
of a knightes fee.
Robert Whitnay holdeth Whitney (Whitney) by . . of a knightes fee.
James Scutarnor holdeth Mokkas (Moccas) by ... of a knights fee.
William Mill holdeth Avenbury (Avenbury) by . . . of a knights fee.
The Manor of Fenner (Venne or Fenn) in the handes of our soveraine lord the King by
reason of the minoritie of Nicholas Walweyn.
The heires of Rowdon hoolde the manor of Kowdon (Boddenham) by . . . of a
knightes fee.
James Vaughan holdeth the manor of Netherhergest (Hergest this side river) by .
of a knights fee.
Richarde Hergeste holdeth Overhergeste (Hergest further side river) by ... of a
knightes fee.
James Vaughan Squier holdeth the manor of Briggecourte (?) by ... of a
knights fee.
Woo DDES.
Kingges wood conteyniiyng 200 Acres the acre 10s.
Haye wood conteyniiyng by estymacion 20 Acres the Acre at 20*. .
Bradners wood conteynnyng by estimacion 20 Acres the Acre at 5s.
The fforreste by Hontingdon conteynneth 16 Acres the Acre at 10s.
Rugbege Helde conteyuuyng by estymacion 1 2 Acres the Acre at 5s.
Brilleis (Brilley) wood conteynneth by estymacion 100 acres the Acre
at 13s. 4d. . . . • • . 66 13 4
Sum £202 13s. 4d.
Summa Dominii de Huntingdon' preter pi-imam Recognicionem ut supra.
(Sum of the lordship of Huntingdon besides the first Recognizance as
above .... . 53 1 101
THE PARKE AND FFOBESTE.
The fforreste there is used as other be the game going at large and the King answerde
booth of the herbage and pawnage.
The parke there is a goodly and a parkely grounde conteynning 2 myles aboute,
having 100 dere in the same, the keper there is Thomas Shirlay lately admitted the
Kingges servauute as is said.
OFFICES AT THE KINGGES PLEASURE.
The ffee of the said parke is at . . . £3 18s. per Annum.
The Stewardeship gooth with Breknok.
There be- assingned by Thomas Magnus and William Walweyn to be Levetenauntes
James Vaughan gentleman ussher and Rogier Vaughan his broder.
The office of Receiver there occupied by the said Hugh Marven gooth with Breknok.
The office of Constable of the Castell is assingned to the said James Vaughan and
Rogier Vaughau his broder at ... £5 per Annum.
(11)
NOTES ON THE SUliVEY.
Those who have studied the annals of our County will agree that the reign of Henry
VIII, which included the final forfeiture of the Duke of Buckingham's immense Brecon-
shire possessions to the Crown, and the Reformation with its accompanying transference,
also to the Crown, of lands of the religious houses, forms the one great dividing mark in
its history.
Before that period, owing to the records of the Courts of the Lord Marchers not being
extant, and the ecclesiastical books and papers, whether of religious houses or of parishes
and of the See of St. Davids being carried away at the Reformation, it is difficult to place
together the threads of history, so as to form a continuous narrative, with any degree of
certainty. Historians have done their best with very scanty information to work upon ;
but much is left to conjecture and for the imagination to supply.
Since that epoch, however, if due research is used, the history of our County can be
made full and clear ; and that because the greater part of the lands of Breconshire having
then passed to the Crown, the subsequent disposal of those estates can be clearly traced
from public documents belonging to the State.
Hence it has seemed to me advisable to have made a careful, fresh, and original copy
of the Survey of the Duke of Buckingham's forfeited possessions, and to place it here in
the body of this volume, following on the account of the Duke's trial.
In some respects the present copy differs from that given by Theo. Jones, and an
attempt is also made to arrange the various particulars in a clearer manner.
" The Honor of Hereford " is a new expression, first made use of in the time of
Heury VIII, as the " Honor of Hampton Court," and under that general term, probably
with other lands, the forfeited possessions of the Duke of Buckingham were designated,
consisting of the Lordship of Brecon Castle, with its attached Lordships of Cantercelly,
Penkelly, Hay, and Huntinton.
It will be observed that the Duke's possessions extended from the south-west boundary
of Breconshire at Ystradgynlais to Little Hereford, near Ludlow, in a broad band some
10 miles wide and 70 miles long, and covering an area of 700 square miles in Breconshire
and Herefordshire.
And the thought has crossed my mind that, as the Lords Marchers of Wales were in
the habit of meeting at Ludlow Castle for the dispatch of business concerning Wales and
the Kingdom generally, when so required by the King, the lords of Brecon Castle retained
for their use the road and lands adjacent between these two points, so that they and their
retainers could travel the whole way on their own lands, or at least on the lands held of
them by knights' fee. Their knights would also join them on the way, and give them a
resting-place for the night if need be ; or the friendly monks of Leominster could place
their domits and its stabling at the disposal of the semi-royal train when it passed that way.
When the Wye was crossed at Clifford or Whitney fords, the natural way to make for
Ludlow was not down the valley of the Wye to Hereford — which is little more than a
wooded, dangerous defile — but by Eardisley, Weobley, and Stretford, comprising the most
open and best land in the county of Hereford, And if fat beeves and golden corn were
short at Brecon Castle, the richer and warmer lands of the Arrow and Lugg Valleys could
yield an abundant supply.
Trace the course on the Map, and note the names of places given, and see how they
correspond mile for mile with those on the Survey. I remember the road well. It was the
one I went in the 'forties, with other lads, in a fly and pair of horses, bound for Ludlow
and our school at Bridgeuorth. And, coming home for the holidays, we carried mimic arms,
and our peashooters rattled their contents against the panes of many a Weobley casement.
Not so as we went to school : other thoughts filled our minds.
But all this is conjecture, in the absence of the Itinerary of the Lords of Brecknock
Castle ; though it seems to be the reasonable and natural explanation why this broad width
of lands was retained under their control even as late as the reign of Henry VIII.
(12)
MANGES IN HEEEFOEDSHIEE WHOSE LOEDS OWED SUIT TO THE
COUET AT BAILI GLAS, IN THE CASTLE OF BRECON.
No. 1. 'Tadstone Waffard " (Tedstone Wafer).
2. ' Humber " (Humber, nr. Leominster).
3. Kingston " (Kingstoue).
4 & 5. Britts Court " (Bridge Court in Kingstone Parish).
6. Woston Britt."
7, 9, 1 6. ' Burghill " (Burghill).
8 & 10. ' Parva Hereford " (Little Hereford).
11. Leighton" (Leighton Court, Much Cowarne).
12,22. ' Upton "(?)
13. Laistres " (Laysters, nr. Teubury).
14, 15. Tadstune de la mer" (Tadstone de la Mere).
[" John Wyrham had grant of free warren in 1329.
The family held the manor until middle of 17th cent."]
"Richard Cresswell, gent., d. 23 April 1643." Rolinson's
Mansions.
17. "Garter tope " (Gattertop, parish of Hope-under-Dinmore).
18. "Burltonne" (Burlton-Burghill).
19. " Tillington " (Tillington).
20. "Eisbrie" (Risbury-Humber).
21. " Upton Hagarnell." (1)
23. •' Bread warden " (Bredwardine).
[Jones' Breconshire, vol. i, p. 346, App. XI. Notitia
Cambro-Britanniea, in the possession of the Duke
of Beaufort at Badminton.]
INQUISITION ON THE DEATH OF THE DUKE OF BUCKINGHAM.
[Chancery Inq'ns. p.-m., Series II, Vol. XXXIX, No. 1 15.]
Inquisition taken at the city of Hereford on Tuesday the 13th day of January,
14 Hen. 8. [1523] before William Herbert de Grughall and others, commissioners.
The jurors say that Edward late Duke of Buckingham late of Thornbury in co.
Glouc. on the day that he was indicted and attainted for high treason was seised in his
demesne as of fee of the honor, castle, town, manor or lordship of Brekenok, arid of the
lands of Brekenok called Brekenok landes in South Wales.
[In a volume of this kind, which does not aim to be a connected history of events, and
where fresh information and new documents are constantly being found as the work pro-
gresses, it is necessary to bring these to the notice of the reader ; and I prefer to do this
in the text rather than by way of notes.
Therefore, before the translation of the Valor Ecclesiasticus, temp. Henry VIII (so far as
relates to Breconshire and Radnorshire) is given, it is proposed to interpose here some of
these subjects, and also to include pieces of a lighter kind, calculated to amuse and interest
the general reader. — J. LL.]
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•(13)
THE PARLIAMENTARY SURVEYS.
[See ante Vol. T, pp. 1—21.]
AND
LANDS SOLD BY THE COMMONWEALTH.
[Copied from the Calendar ]
[Augmentation Office. Particulars for sale of the Honors, Manors, and Lands of
King Charles I, his Queen, and the Prince of Wales, pursuant to several
Ordinances of Parliament passed during the time of the Commonwealth.]
BRECON.
BRECKNOCK.
Parcels.
A Fulling Mill, called Burges Mill
The Great Forest near the Town, with appurts. The
Custom or Comortha of £56 16s. Gd,, payable every
second year within the Manor of Brecknock . 6.
Purchaser.
Mrs. Phillips. lj. 13.
David Morgan. lj.
lj. 13.
20.
BUILT.
For Lands within the Manor, See //. 20. Parcels,
6, &c. ..... David Morgan. lj.
The Customs or Comortha, payable every second
year within the Manor, and collected by the Steward, 6. David Morgan. lj.
DIVENOCK.
The Custom Mill near the Church there Parcel of
the Honor of Brecknock, Senny Mill, and Cray Mill, 3. David Morgan. lj.
Glentaway Mill
A Water Mill
ISTHOUAYULES.
ISTRODVELTY.
K AM YON.
The free and other Rents due thereout to the | Richard Swaine \
LLANDEWYCO.M.
Manor of Welchhey
A Water Mill
,. ]9
LLEWELL.
A Water Mill near Trea Castle . 3. David Morgan.
MALVERNE-LLANSPYTHET.
The Manor or Lordship. Parcel of the Monastery
of Malvern Major, A Tenement called Llenellyns House,
1. Humphrey Jones, lj. 26.
and sundry Lands
Sundry Lands
MASHMANNIS.
6. David Morgan.
lj. 26.
20.
(14)
PENNKELLY WALKNSIS.
The Manor or Lordship with their appurts. A Piece
of Land, part of the Common called Gvvanii y Kyver 2. Humphrey Jones. Ij. 26. Ij. 26.
PENNY-DERRIX.
Pullcoch Mill ... 3. David Morgan. Ij. 22.
WELCHHEY.
f Richard Swaine I ;• i.~> 7-10
The Manor with its Appurts. . .| an(l Ux. J J' J'
[Augmentation Office. Particulars for sale of the Honors, Manors, and Lands of
King Charles I, his Queen, and the Prince of Wales.]
A FULLING MILL IN BRECKNOCK CALLED BURGESS MILL.
Same as Aug. Off. Parliamentary Survey, Brecon No. 7, with these additions following.
Contracted for ye 22nd of March, 1652.
The premises above mencioned are contracted for and Agreed to be sold unto William
Philipps of London Gent.
This Particular is rated in Fee Simple for the said William Phillips at 16 yeares
purchase for the present yearly value of a Fulling Mill called Burges Mill
mencioned in the particular to be in the present possession of the State being £4 10s. iu
possession according to which rates and values the purchase money payable and to be paid
for the premises amounts to the sum of £72 whereof 48*. is payable to the contractors
Trustees and treasurers viz. 36s. to the contractors and trustees, and 12s. to the treasurers
for 8rf. per pound.
Aug. Off. Particulars for Sales of Manors, &c., of King Charles I, Ij. 20. 6.
Co. BRECON. — MANOR or BUILT AND FOIIEST BRECON.
The first part is the same as Aug. Off. Parliamentary Survey, Brecon No 1, down to
the custom or Comortha of £20, then follows: And all that the peice or parcell of ground
with the appurtenaunces lyeing and being neere the Towue of Brecon comonly called and
knowue by the name of the great fforrest consisting of a large Comou or Pasture by
estimacion Seaven Miles in length or thereaboutes. And alsoe all that the Custome called
a Comortha of ffifty sixe Poundes sixeteene shillings payable every second yeare within the
Manuor of Brecon in the County of Brecon aforesaid which said summe of ffifty sixe
pounds sixteeue shillings hath bin from time to time accustomed to be collected and payed
by the Steward and Bailiffe of the said Mannor for the time being Together with all waies
passages waters water-courses Tolls Multure suit of Mill Souking Sluces ffloodgates
Customes libertyes priviledges Comodityes Inmnityes Jurisdiccions advauutages and
appurtonaunces whatsoever to the said peice or parcel of Mountainous laud Moorish land
water Corne Milles Customes and premises belonging or iu any wise apperteyning or with
them or any of them heretofore used accustomed occupied or enjoyed as part parcell or
member of them or any of them per Ann. £65 11s. 4rf.
Memorandum the premises are in the present possession of the State and the present
yearely value ariseth as followeth That parcell of Mountaiue lands per Ann. 20s. The
Moorish ground per Ann. 10s. The water Grist Mill per Ann. £5 Gs. 8d. The Custome
called a Comortha within the Mannor of Built payable every second yeare per ann. £10
The piece of ground called the Great Forrest per ann. £20 6*. 8d. The Custome called
a Cormortha of £56 16s. within the manor of Brecon payable every second yeare which
makes upp the aforesaid summe of £65 11s. 4o!.
Memorandum it is certified that the Inhabitautes of the several parishes of Deveu-
nock Levvell, Glyntnoy Strodwellby Pedoryn Cantreffe Llanvigon and Llauvettee and their
predecessors have time out of mind had the benefit of the Herbage of the parcell of ground
called the great fforreste for all beastes Sheepe and horse without number for which there
(15)
is yearely paied by the severall Inhabitantes of the aforesaid parishes the summe of
£20 6s. 8rf., viz., for every Cow a Penny for every horse l|c?. and for every score of
Sheepe 4d.
The premises above mentioned are contracted for and agreed to be sold unto David
Morgan of .... Contracted for ye 2nd (?) December, 1650.
This particular is rated in fee simple for ye said David Morgan at 14 yeares purchase.
Aug. Off. Particulars for Sale of Manors, etc., of Chas. I, Ij. 12.
Co. BRECKNOCK. — MANOR OF WELCHHEY.
Same as Parliamentary Survey, Brecon No. 9, with this addition : These premisses
above mencioued are contracted for and agreed to be sold unto \Vrn. Phillips of London,
gent., and at his desire is rated in fee simple for Ri : Sivaine of the parish of Clere (1) in ye
county of Radnor, Clerk, and Mauld his wife, Contracted for ye 22nd of March, 1652.
This particular is rated in fee symple for the said Richard Swaine and Mauld his wife
at 16 years purchase.
Aug. Off. Particulars for sale of Manors, etc., of Chas. I, Ij. 26.
Co. BRECON. — THE MANORS OF MALVERNE LLANSPYTHETT, AND PENKELLY WALENSIS.
As in Parliamentary Surveys, Brecon, Nos. 5 and 8, with these additions:
The premises above mencioned are contracted for and agreed to be sold unto Humphrey
Jones, citizen and mercer of London. Contracted for ye 14th of April, and 19th of May, 1652
This particular is rated in fee simple for the said Humphrev Jones at 22 years
purchase for the present yearly value of the manor of Penkelley Wallensis, in the present
possession of the State being, £5 8s. lid. in possession. And at 20 years purchase for the
present yearly value of the manor of Malverne Llanspithett, in the present possession of
the State being £11 13.?. 5|c?. in possession. According to which rates and values the
purchase money payable and to be paid for the premises amounts to the sum of £353 5s. 4cZ.
At the Restoration in 1660, all these sales were cancelled, and the manors and
lands reverted to the Crown.
[It is the received opinion in Courts of Law and by Judges, that the Parliamentary
Surveys are documents on which great reliance are to be placed.
This may be so as regards England, but having regard to the circumstance that the
Surveys in Wales were made by English Commissioners, to whom the Welsh language was
an unknown tongue; and also that the stewards or lessees of the Crown property in many
instances failed to attend the Courts to give evidence as to the extent, boundaries, customs,
and other particulars of the manors and lands, it was almost impossible for the Com-
missioners to have been accurately informed.
And in Survey No. 5, that of Llanspythid (The Malvern Lordship), it would seem that
somewhat ridiculous names were given to some of the lands, like "Rarodumtid Close."
At that time, both Sir Walter Pye and Thomas Pryce Esqre were, it appears, claiming
rights in this manor, but, neither appeared before tli8 Commissioners to give evidence.
Yet, notwithstanding all such drawbacks, the value of these Parliamentary Surveys
is considerable ; and in the absence of more certain documentary evidence, much weight is
attached to them, when put in evidence in Courts of Law. — J. LL.]
THE FOREST OF BUCHLYD OR BUCKLAND.
The following interesting letter of 1841 confirms the impression I had formed that
the Forest of Buchlyd was really Buckland Hill, and which was enclosed under the
Llaneaintfread Inclosure Act of 1814 : —
" Llandovery, 1st May, 1841.
" Dear H., — I know only of one grant from a Duke of Buckingham, and that was
delivered to Mrs. Gwynne Holford, with all the other Buckland muniments, on the 14th
May, 1830, as appears by a list of them, and her receipt, and both are now before me.
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"In the list is a grant or release from Henry, Duke of Buckingham, in 1481 (hid ward IV),
of Is., payable to the Lordship of Brecknock, in respect of Bncklana Hill. I perfectly
recollect the document. It is a small roll of parchment, and is endorsed in the hand-
writing of Mr. Illingworth, who found it in the Muniment Room at Buckland, and I have
no doubt it is that to which Mr. H. Gwynne referred, and to which you allude in your
letter of the 22nd. nit,
" It does not relate to the fisheries of the Manors, and I am quite sure the only
grant of importance relating to the fishery is that of the Stanhopes, of which I sent you
the translation. — Yours truly. " E. I."
[Note. — For copy of the Duke of Buckingham's grant, see Vol. I, Hist. Mem., page
120, and of the grant to the Stanhopes (43 Eliz., 1601) page 149.]
BUCKLAND MILL.
This dismantled mill on the Usk, placed at Glawcoed at one of the most romantic and
picturesque spots in our beautiful county, has always had an interest for me. The fall of
the river over the rough, irregular, and steep ledges of the rich-coloured old red-sandstone
rocks is strikingly grand ; and the deserted mill just above, in full sight, with its shattered
and spectre-like wheel, becomes part and parcel of Nature's work of beauty.
And the picnics there in the days of my youth ! The ladies drank the pure water of
the river, and the gentlemen placed carefully their wine bottles in the rocky eddies to cool ;
and by-and-bye, when the repast was over, the rich mellow voice of Major Stretton would
be heard in his favourite hunting song of "My Brave old Hound!" These, the Llan-
gynider rocks, near Bucklaud Old Mill, were the convenient halfway meeting-place for
pleasure parties in summer time, for the gentlefolk of Brecon and neighbourhood, and of
the Vale of Crickhowell.
Very little of the ancient history of this mill — most of the mills in Brecoushire possess
a very early origin — have I been able to glean. Apparently, it was called in old
documents, Maesygwaelod Mill. In 1827 it seems to have been known as simply
Buckland Mill; and I have a letter now before me, of September 10th in that year, from
Mr. Thomas Abraham, of Talybont, making application for the tenancy :
" Being informed that Buckland Mill is to let by you, 1 should like to tack (sic) it for
a term of years on a repairing lease, By your finding Timber for the work."
The mill was very inaccessibly placed for wheel traffic, though that mattered little for
horses with pack-saddles. It was near to Llanddutty ford, on the Usk, and no doubt had
custom from both sides of the river, especially in dry seasons, when its unfailing water
supply gave it an advantage over other country mills.
It will be remembered that Mr. Thynue Howe Gwynne, the owner of Bnckland Mill,
died in 1826, and probably the falling into disrepair of the mill, and its ceasing to be let,
dates from that period — not earlier.
THE MANOR OF LLANGASTY TAL-Y-LLYN.
{Ante, Vol. I, page 109.]
Some further information has come to light with regard to the Common lands of this
Manor.
In 1835. Sir Edward Hamilton, owner of the Trebinshun mansion and estate, was
presented at the Court Leet for making an encroachment on the Allt Common on the
Bwlch side or end.
On the other hand, a letter is extant from Sir Edward Hamilton, turning the tables on
the Lord of the Manor, Mr. Champion de Crespigny, or his trustees, and charging him or
theru with wrongfully enclosing a part of the same hill. The Court Bolls of that period
will prove interesting and instructive reading, if ever the audacious claim of the Lord of
the Manor to enclose the whole Common land of the Allt hill is again made. Free access
to the summit point of the Allt hill is one of the birthrights of Breconshire men !
BUCKLAND OLD MILL— RIVER USK.
FALL ON THE RIVER USK BELOW LLANGYNIDER.
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BLACKMORE COMMON.
In connection with this manor of Llaugasty Tal-y-llyn, there is something mysterious
and unexplained about Hlackmore Common, as I have before mentioned: Vol. I, p. 117.
Was this the 40 acres let on the 1000 years' lease to certain named persons by Sir Heury
Williams, of Gwerneved, in 1617, at £4 per annum rent, and £4 fine, payable every
sixty years ? This we know, that Mr. Champion de Crespigny, when collecting his
Llangasty Tal-y-llyn Manor chief rents, had printed on his summons separately a notice to
the Blackmoor tenants to pay, as if that Common had special rights and a tenure of its
own. Was this Common the same as the land held under the long lease, or extra
common land ?
Grant to Walter Devereux, Lord Ferrers,
OF THE STEWARDSHIP OF THE LORDSHIP OF CANTESELLEF,
PENKELLY, IN THE MARCHES OF WALES. 13 HENRY IV. (1412).
Stowe MS. N. 8.
On the 2lst day of March the King granted to Walter Devereux, knight, Lord Ferrers,
the office of the stewardship of the lordships of Cantesellef, Penkelly, Brendelefe, Langoit,
and Alexandretowne, and the office of steward of the lordships of Hay and Glynbough, in
the Marches of Wales, Huutyngton, Byrlese, Kyngton Cawrsse in the Marches of Wales,
and the office of park-keeper of the park of Hyntyngton and the office of forester or park-
keeper of Mynsterley within the forest of Hogstowe, the office of the forester or park-keeper
of Hanerley, etc., etc., etc.
Grant of £60 to the Bailliefes and Burgesses
of Brecknock
OUT OF THE FEE FERME OF THE TOWN TOWARDS MAKING THE
TOWNE WALLES. 1 RICHARD III. (1483).
Earl. MS. 433. fo. 173.
Nicholas Spycer hath a warrant directed unto him to delyver unto the Bailliefes and
Burgesses of Breknok threscore poundes of the fee ferme of the same Towne, which the
King hath geven unto them towardes the making of the Walles of the same Towne.
Geven at York ye 3rd day of May Anno primo (Richard 3).
[These warrants issued by Richard III will be referred to later.]
VOL. II.
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Grant of Free Stones Leying within the Castel
TO THE BAILI AND BURGEIS OF BRECKNOCK FOR THE MAKING
OF A STONE CROCK 2 RICIIAKD III (1484).
Harl. MS. 433, fo. 2104.
The baili and burgeis of Breknok had a warrant directed to the Receyvor ther to
deliver 6 free stones leying within the castel there unoccuppied for the making of a Stone
croce.
Given at Westminster the last day of February. 2 Ric. 3.
"DIZEN'D."
Mr. B. Frere was the well-known ironmaster of Clydach, and on the 7th Feb., 1797,
he came to see Mr. John Powell, at Brecon, of the firm of Walter and John Powell, the
famous firm of solicitors. I rather think the following little note from the Golden Lion
led to the partnership between the Frere family and the Powells, which finally, after many
vicissitudes, ended so disastrously to Mr. John Powell's descendants in quite recent times.
" Mr. E. Frere's compliments to Mr. Jno. Powell, and will be glad to see him at
the Lion, or wait on Mr. Powell, if aloue, Mr. E. F. not being Dizen'd. Wednesday
evening."
This expression puzzled me, so 1 turned to Johnson, and found the meaning :
" To dizen — v.a., to dress, to deck out, to rig out (a low word).
Then follows the illustration from Swift:
"Your ladyship lifts up the sash to be seen.
For sure 1 had dizeu'd you out like a queen."
So we may understand Mr. Frere to mean that he could not appear in evening dress. I
do not remember meeting with the term previously anywhere.
OLD TIMES IN BRECONSHIRE.
On looking over & Brecon Gazette, published at Merthyr, of May 2nd, 1835, I find
that the Brenoushire Agricultural Society then gave as a prize to the most successful
ploughman :
" A coat, waistcoat, and breeches, with the society's buttons, which are very hand-
some, having upon them a plough, and the words, ' Breconshire Agricultural Society.' "
I should rather like to see one of these buttons — can the squire of Aberyskir find one for
me to have a look at !
In the same paper I see that " a commercial gentleman on his way from Trecastle to
Brecon about ten o'clock on the evening of the 21st ult., was shot at, but the ball passed
through his hat, fortunately without doing him any personal injury." It was a near shave,
but might have been worse.
FOEL, OR THE BARE HILL.
We have in the county the following names, compounded of this word : —
Moel priscae (north of Abergwessin).
The Voel (near Llanwrtyd).
Moelfre (on Eppynt).
Molfeudy (Great Forest).
Tor foel ( Llanddetty).
THE GIANT LARCH TREE AT PENPONT
(more than 100 years anii.
(19)
It appears that the Irish have a very similar narue, and in France a village is called Molo-
nays, as being near a high, bare, or bald hill. A friend to whom I was talking, and
whose name was Molouey, said that his own name was derived from raoel, as the root.
EAELIEST INTRODUCTION OF LARCH TREES IN BRECONSHIRE.
The following entries occur in the bill of Mr. Robert Holbert, seedsman, of Gloucester,
due from Mr. John Bullock Lloyd, a considerable owner of land in Breconshire, in 1778.
The entries are as follow : — £ s. d.
1778, March 26th— 100 spruce fir trees . . .220
2 oz. of spruce fir seeds . . .020
1 oz. of silver fir seeds . . . .010
2 07. LARCH seeds . . . .020
Other items, &c. . . . -120
£390
I have not met with any earlier reference to the planting of larch in our county.
Probably Mr. Philip Williams, of Penpout, was the first to plant larch extensively, and
that magnificent tree in the Penpont grounds was one of these. His neighbour, the Canon
of Abercamlais, also planted larch largely. My two grandfathers, Osborue Yeats at Llan-
gattock, and Captain Lloyd at his old home, Dinas, Llanwrtyd, and on his newly-purchased
Abercynrig estate, planted thousands of trees. It fell to my lot to value and sell these
woods for my father, in 1855 to 1870. They contained magnificent trees of great length
and girth, and realised many thousand pounds. It is said that Captain Lloyd brought
the seedlings down to Llanwrtyd in a carpet bag, and one or two spots on the side of Dinas
Hill are marked on the estate map as nurseries, where the seedlings were reared up to be
fit for planting out. And I remember in the Penpont gardens a considerable portion was
set apart as a nursery for all kinds of trees. The great disaster of the winter of 1880,
which practically ruined all the young larch plantations west and north of Brecon, put a
stop to any further extensive larch planting by landowners. On one estate the loss was
from £5000 to £10,000.
MY WEDDING TRIP TO LONDON, AND WHAT IT COST. (1815).
"Expenses from Brecon to London from the 25th to the 27th April, 1815, both
inclusive, the 25th being the day on which I was married : —
" 1815, April 25th.— Chaise (and pair) to the Hay, £1 2*. Gd. ; turnpike, 2*.;
driver, 10s. ; chaise (and four horses) to Hereford £3; turnpikes, 9s. \d. ; drivers, 11s. 8d.
expenses at Hereford, 8s. ; chaise (and four horses) to Bromyard, £2 2s. ; turnpikes, 7s. 6d. ;
drivers, 6s. 6d. ; negus, Is. 6d. ; chaise (and four horses) to Worcester, £2 2s.
"April 26th — Expenses at Worcester, £2 13s.; a keeper to wedding ring, £1 7s.;
inkstand, 12s. Gd. ; candlestick, 7s. ; gloves for Miss Morrice, 3s. ; cake for Miss Morrice,
4s. 8d. ; chaise (and pair) to Pershore, 15s.; turnpike, Is. ; driver, 5s. ; chaise (and pair)
to Broadway, 15s. ; turnpike, Is. ; driver, 3s. Gd. ; expenses, 8s. : chaise (and pair) to
Chapel House, £1 2s. 4d. ; turnpike, Is. id. ; driver, 5s. 8d. ; chaise (and pair) to Wood-
stock, 14s. 4d. ; turnpike, Is. ; driver, 4s. 8d. ; porters at Blenheim, Is. 6d. ; chaise (and
pair) to Oxford, 10s. 8d. ; turnpike, Is. ; driver, 3s. 6d. ; expenses at Oxford, £2 Us. ;
seeing new College Chapel, &c., 10s. 6d.
" 27. — Chaise (and pair) to Benson 16s. ; turnpike, Is. ; driver, 3s. 6d. ; chaise (and
pair), to Henley, 14s. Wd. ; turnpike, 6s. ; driver, 3s. 6d ; chaise (and pair) to Salt Hill,
£1 4s. ; turnpike, Is. ; driver, 3*. 6d. ; chaise (and pair) to Hounslow, 13s. ; turnpike, Is. ;
driver, 3s. ; chaise (and pair) to London, 18s. ; turnpike, Is. 8d. ; driver, 3,i. — Total,
£32 11s. I0d."
(20)
Here is an interesting puzzle. The bride and bridegroom were gentlefolk, and the
account is made out on gilt-edged paper. Who were the happy pair? There is no clue
on the memorandum paper. Just for a bit of fun, will some of the clergy in and near
Brecon turn to their registers for the 25th of April, 1815? Notice the speed to reach
Worcester the first day, requiring three relays of four horses. I daresay the roads were
heavy, though hearts were light and anxious. Broadway (Broadway Hill), and Chapel
House were posting-houses on the road from Worcester by Stow-on-the-Wold to Wood-
stock.
A FEAST OF LAMPREYS.
The following amusing and well-written letter bears no date, but we shall not be far
wrong in saying 1820 to 1830.
The Severn is chiefly famous for lampreys, though they are found in the Wye and
Usk. It is a sea fish, and ascends into fresh water for breeding in the early spring.
Worcester and Gloucester cities are renowned for their lamprey dinners. The fish is like
an eel in shape ; on each side of the head are seven holes, acting as gills, and their mouth
is round, with many rows of small teeth, and also jagged, so that they are able with their
mouths to fasten on to stones in the river after the manner of leeches. They run in
weight up to 4 Ibs., though the larger fish are said to be a different kind. The small ones,
a foot or less long, are the best eating, and served up with rich gravy and port wine are
delicious. Henry I. is said to have died of eating too many. [See Daniel, R. Sports,
vol. ii, p. 107 (1807).]
" My dear Elizabeth,
"Herewith you will receive 4 Lampreys which have been considered by antient
as well as modern Epicures most delicious eating, fit for Gods and Aldermen and other
persons of high degree.
" If it would not be considered presumptuous in me (who am unaccustomed to dainty
fare and drink only of the simple spring) to offer advice on the mode of serving them up
for a Brecon palate, I should recommend that they be skinned and cleaned and boiled for
a short time in salt and wafer, that they be then put into a stew pan with a bottle of port
wine, some sliced onions, and cloves, and that they be kept about an hour over a gentle
stove fire.
" Then pour off the wine and put to it about half a pint of rich Brecon gravy with as
much butter and flour as will make the sauce of a proper thickness. Add lemon juice, if
required. Put all together into the stew pan and warm up for the table.
" This receipt is meant only for one fish.
" Watch well the countenances of the Guests and I venture to prognosticate you will
find the strongest sensations of delight and enjoyment expressed in them.
"I had almost forgot to add that these fish were in high estimation at the Table of
Heliogabalus. They therefore want no further recommendation.
" Your Father must taste not of them.
" All here unite in kind remembrances to yourself and the rest of the family.
" Dr. B. (Dr. Batt, a well-known Medicus at Brecon) is desired to be in readiness to
go over and bleed, physic and blister such of you as will require it. He'll have enough to
do methinks.
"Yours affectionately,
"Monday Morng. " (Sgd. R.W.)
" The whole of the Fish is good except just the head."
Cd&wn* e
HENRY VIII. ORDERING THE VALOR ECCLESIASTICUS TO BE MADE : 1536.
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The Valor Ecclesiasticus.— 27 Henry VIII.
A Valor or Valuation of the Ecclesiastical Establishment of England and Wales was
mr.de in the reign of Edward I under the sanction of Pope Nicholas.
The Valuation ordered to be made in the 26th of Henry VIII was, however, of a far
more complete and comprehensive character, and is known as the Valor Ecclesiasticus.
It is described as
" Presenting in one grand conspectus the whole Ecclesiastical Establishment of
England and Wales, as it had been built up in successive centuries, and when it was at its
greatest height."
The thought has often occurred to me, and I saw the same well expressed by a Bishop
the other day, how marvellously, like a miracle, the Roman Church had covered England
and Wales with a complete network of cathedrals, churches, and chapels, all more or less
in touch with the numerous large abbeys, priories, and other religious houses, and forming
one great universal religious system in every corner of the land, and dominant there !
Who designed and built all these thousands of parish churches, choosing an appropriate
site for each ; and when they were built, who can give any certain information 1 And then
followed the co-ordination of all the parishes in one diocese under the appointed Bishop, to
whom, or to his Archbishop, the Vatican gave its supreme orders ! The Church of .Rome
was at the meridiau of its power in this country when the King ordered this Valuation to
be made.
The Reformation immediately followed, and the cord was cut which bound the Church
to Rome. Annates, Peter's Pence, Indulgence Fees, etc., payable to the Pope, were
abolished ; in lieu thereof payments were made to the King, but under a different head.
These were called First-Fruits, and Tenths of all annual Church Revenues. Not only in
calculating the amount of these, but in dealing with the properties of the closed Abbeys,
Priories, etc., this Valor book was doubtless used by the King and his Ministers as
the standing reference book to consult.
The printing of the Valor is a comparatively modern event.
In answer to an Address of the House of Commons in 1810, by command of Geo. Ill,
it was ordered that the books containing this Ecclesiastical Survey should be transcribed
(in Latin) and printed.
Accordingly, a Commission was appointed for the purpose, consisting of :
Speaker Abbott,
Lord Campbell,
Lord Glenbervie,
and
The Master of the Rolls,
with Mr. John Caley as Secretary. The publication of the work — unfortunately in Latin —
in six large folio volumes, with maps, extended over the years 1810 to 1826.
So far as relates to the Counties of Brecon and Radnor, within the Diocese of
St. Davids, a translation of the Valor is here given.
By those who care to go deeply into Church history of that period, the Valor map of the
diocese of St. Davids should be studied ; and also such books as :
Dugdale's Monasticon.
Stephens' Additions to Do.
Tanner's Notitia.
Liber Regis (Bacon).
Brown-Willis.
Ecton's Thesaurus.
Cobbett's History of the Reformation.
Some of which also deal with the history of the establishment of Queen Anne's Bounty.
Few, however, of these books are to be met with, except in the best reference libraries.
(22)
VALOR ECCLESIASTICUS HEN. VIII, ST. DAVIDS.
27 HENRY VIII.
[TRANSLATION.]
View of the value of all and singular the manors lands and tenements and of the
other possessions as well spiritual as temporal of the Lord ... by divine permission
Bishop of St. Davids pertaining or belonging to the episcopal see of St Davids, taken
before the Commissioners underwritten hereto appointed according to the form of the
Statute thereof published and provided the 20th day of the month of February in the 27th
year of the reign and the royal power of the Lord King Henry the 8th, King of England and
France Defender of the Faith, Lord of Ireland and of the Church of England the Supreme
Head.
The same Bishop claims and is held to have and hold to him and his successors Bishops
of St. Davids the lordships manors, lands, tenements and possessions underwritten, viz.,
the castle and manor of Layhayden by the name of the whole barony the Tower of the
city or vill of St. Davids and the lordships of Pebydianke Diffryntolby and Diffrynteiby
with the members, also the manor of Lantesey and the park of fallow-deer there and also
his palace built next his Cathedral Church of St. Davids. In the which barony, lordships
and manors the said Bishop has his prison for all manner of felonies, trespasses and clerks
convicted or attainted whatsoever to be tried and his Exchequer within his castle aforesaid
and the seal of his Chancery for all manner of original writs to be acquired and executed
bv his Chancery wheresoever in and throughout all his manors and lordships aforesaid, and
one Session to be held from month to month at Lanlmyden before the chief steward of the
same Bishop or his locum tenons, and also one other court of the Hundred and other
inferior courts for the common pleas and pleas of the Crown, the tourn of the sheriff or
constable the office of coroner and escheator for the pleas to the said offices and trespasses
whatsoever emerging to be held and determined for ever before his constable or his deputy
according to the liberties of the Kings of England and Princes of Wales so granted to him,
in pure and perpetual alms.
And there are within the said barony lordships and manors some tenants who hold of
the said Bishop manors, lands and tenements by knights service, viz , wards, marriages
and relief when they shall happen. And some other tenants who hold by Charter. And
others who hold their inheritance by ancient tenure which is called Gavelkynde, the
inheritances of whom are to be divided after the death of the possessors as well between
the males as between the females and to the said inheritance there happens relief only,
viz., of each carucate of laud 10s. and so according to more or less although the heir be
within age or without ; but there are other tenants who hold their inheritance by tenure
of borough anglice " Borough Englyshe " and there the lord shall have the rent duplicated
for his relief only.
And there are also tenants of other land, viz., under the Welsh hundred of St. Davids
and are named Tudwaldi who do and are wont to serve the Bishop witli their ploughs for
the necessaries of the lord about his buildings to be built again and similar things, and
there shall happen after the death of the said tenants 5s. for heriot only and not more,
although he be the possessor of things and chattels, others also hold by the rod and make
a fine for their seisin and entry to be had in their lands and they shall pay heriot, relief
and marriage and shall make their services according to the custom of the manor. And
the residue of the tenants are of Welsh tenure purely who hold and occupy the law of
Howel Dda late Prince of Wales of all the laws the law most imperfect not written,
without order not ordained not wanting in vices in form for certain void of reason and
it is the more to be deplored that among such a multitude of people there was not a
united peace and perfect ordinance.
However, among them the Lord Bishop has every third year among them one great
Session to be held before his Justices in eyre in his lordships of Llandewy Br'i Aberguilly
Dyffryntolby and Diffrynteiby with the members ; and the dissolution of the same Session
is worth £80, to be paid in four payments ; and also the said Bishop has of his said tenants
one collection called a Comortha every third year, viz., of every carucate of English land
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one sheep price \1d. or in money (price) l'2d. And of each tenant or inhabitant of Welsh
land 1 cow or 10 sheep possessing '2d. in price and the said collection is worth £74, to be
paid at the feast of St. Michael the Archangel only. And the said Bishop shall have
after the death of each tenant possessing mere possession of the land at the time of his
death the best animal for heriot if it shall remain within the territory, otherwise 5s. And
if he shall have alienated all he shall pay the heriot as above.
And there are among the said Welsh, mansions having amongst themselves divisions
which are called in Welsh Guelec, in English Bedds, in Latin Lecti, and thence (therefrom)
descends the root (stock) of those by whom they think themselves to continue in (he
position of gentlemen, and according to their portion they reckon or divide the said
collection and tallage of the Session into the price to be paid as above for their said
liberties laws and customs to be used, and so a bad law no liberty and perverse custom
make a public injury.
Here follow :
THE ARCHDEACONRY OF ST. DAVIDS IN THE LORDSHIP OF PEBYDIANKE.
With particulars.
THE ARCHDEACONRY OF KERMERDEN IN THE COUNTY OF KERMERDEN.
With particulars.
THE ARCHDEACONRY OF BRECHON' IN THE LORDSHIP OF BRECHON'.
Of the issues of the farm of all the manors lands and tenements of the aforesaid
Bishop this year, viz., of the manor of Llandew with the members so dimised to Thomas
Havard common years (one year with another) with the perquisites of the Court whatsoever
—£20.
THE ARCHDEACONRY OF CARDYGAN IN THE COUNTY OF CARDYGAN,
With particulars.
THE ARCHDEACONRY OF ST. DAVID'S.
THE DEANERY OF PEBYDYANKE,
Within the Archdeaconry of St. Davids, with particulars of value, etc., and
Churches.
THE DEANERY OF PEMBROOK,
Within the Archdeaconry of St. Davids, with Churches.
THE DEANERY OF DONGLEDY,
In the Archdeaconry of St. Davids, with Churches.
THE PRECEPTORY OF SLEBECHE,
With the members in the Deanery of Dongledy, within the Archdeaconry of
St. Davids, and the county of Pembrook.
THE DEANERY OF ROSE,
In the Archdeaconry of St. Davids.
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THE PRIORY OR CHURCH OF ST THOMAS, HAVERF'.
The Priory of Haverf .
THE PEIORY OF ST. MARY THE VIRGIN DE PULLA.
PARISH CHURCHES IN THE DEANERY OF ROSA,
Within the Archdeaconry of St. Davids.
THE DEANERY OF SUBAYRON,
In the Archdeaconry of Cardygan.
THE PRIORY HOUSE OR CELL OF ST. MARY THE VIRGIN,
Of Cardygan, in co. Cardigan.
THE COLLEGIATE CHURCH OF LLANDEWY BR'I,
Within the Archdeaconry of Cardygan.
THE DEANERY OF ULTRA AIRON,
In the Archdeaconry of Cardygan, and Churches.
THE DEANERY OF UCHAYRON,
In the Archdeaconry of Cardigan, and Churches,
THE ABBEY EXEMPTED OF STRETA FLORIDA,
In the said Deanery and Archdeaconry in co. Cardigan.
THE DEANERY OF EMLYN,
With the Archdeaconry of Cardigan, and Churches.
THE DEANERY OF KEMEYS,
Within the Archdeaconry of Cardigan, and Churches.
THE ABBEY OF ST. DOGMAEL,
In Kemeys, in co. Pembroke.
(25)
THE DEANERY OF THE FIRST PART OF BRECHON,
With the Archdeaconry of Brechon.
Temporality of the Priory of St. John the Evangelist of Brechon.
THE PKIORT OP ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST OF BRECON. £ s. d.
The Prior there holds the Grange of Berynton in co. Hereford which is
worth per ann. £7 3s. 4d. Also Bodenham of the same county 13s. id.
Also in Brynsope of the same county 40s. Also in Selwick Mille of the
same county lls. Sum in co. Hereford £10 7s. 8d. The same Prior
has in temporalities in the lordships of Brechon within the Archdeaconry
aforesaid tenements in \Valkyngeston of the value per ami. of 73s. id.
Also Dynas Castle in Talgarth 66s. 8<i Also of Monckton £9 15s. Also
of Poole 103s. id. Also of Batell £4. Also in mills about the town of
Brechon £15. Also in rents of assize in the town of Brechon £7. Sum
of the tenements within the lordship of Brechon and Talgarth per
annum £47 18*. id.
In the whole . . . 58 6 0
THE DEANERY OF THE FIRST PART OF BRECHOX.
Churches with Chapels annexed.
The Church of Bodenham appropriated to the said Priory is worth per
annum £7 6s. Sd. The Church of Haya per annum 47s. 8d. The
Church of Llanygou £6 13s. id. The Church of Calgargh £11 Os. Od.
The Church of Mera £6 Os. Qd. The Church of Dyvynnok £13 Os. Qd.
The Church of Bouelt £8 Os. Od. The chapel of Batell 100s. The chapel
of the castle of Brechon 43s. id. The portion of Humber 5s. The pension
of Patringham 28s. 8d. The pension of Uppton Waffres 2s. The pension
of Comeduy 20s. The pension of Llanvihangell Tallellyn 5s. Of the
tithes of the sheaves and other things forthcoming with the demesne
lands in the town of Brechon per annum £11 16s. 8d. Sum of the
Churches and other things.
Sum of the total value . . 134 11 4
Out of which
Reprises.
Paid for the yearly pension of Battell 40s. ; for the pension of the Abbot of
Worcester 5s. ; for the pension of the Prior of Malvern 26s. 8d. ; for the
pension of the Prior of Hereford 40s. Also for the pension of the Dean at
Bodenham for the ordinary visitation of the Bishop of St. Davids every
third year 22s. 2c?. ; for the procuration of the Churches of Brechon and
Dyvynnok to the Archdeacon and for the siuodal of the same every year
10s. Id. ; for the fee of the Earl of Worcester, 40s. ; for the fee of John
ap Ll'ns Havard steward of the said house 27s. tid. • for the fee of the
baron of Burfford steward of Berynton 26s. 8d. • for the fee of Thomas
Hubard bailiff and receiver of Brechon under the conventual seal,
73s. id.; for the fee of Meredith app Ll'n of Buelt bailiff there,
13s. id. ; for the fee of Henry Ph', bailiff, of Walkington, 13s. id. ;
for the fee of Thomas Habard steward of Bodenham 20s. ; for the fee
of Roger Parson bailiff of Beryngtou 20s. ; for the fee of John Smith
bailiff of Bodenham 20s. And for the anniversary of Banard and
others founders. And in alms at the Lord's Supper to the poor 20*.
Sum deducted . . . . . . 21 17 2
And there remains clear . . 112 14 2
The tithe thereof . .1155
K
(26)
THE ARCHDEACONRY OF BRECHON. £ s. d.
Richard Gwent Doctor of Laws Archdeacon there and for that reason pre-
bendary of the prebends of Llauvaes, Lloghas and Llandoy with the
chapels annexed to the same which are worth per annum as well in the
visitation for procurations to be levied as in other fruits and obveutions 0 40 0
Tlie tithe thereof . .400
TKOLLON PREBEND.
The prebend there of the collation of the Bishop of St. Davids, whereof
Thomas app Howell is the prebendary there is worth common years . 707
The tithe thereof . 0 14 Of
LLANBIGAN.
David Thomas rector there at the presentation of the lord the King : it is
worth common years with the glebe there . . .15911
The tithe thereof . 0 31 0
It is charged afterwards at a greater sum by virtue of a commission in
the time of Edward VI.
LLANDEBAILOK.
Thomas Griffith rector there : it is worth common years, clear, in tithes and
oblations beyond the allowances there . . . .1300
The tithe thereof . 0 26 0
ESTRADOUILLOS.
The same Thomas is rector there : it is worth yearly in tithes of sheaves
66s. 8d., of cheeses, 66s. 8d. ; in oblations and purifications common
years 66s. 8rf. Sum £10. Whereof in the ordinary visitation and for the
sinodals and procurations to the Archdeacon, 10s. 5d. And there
remains clear . . . . . .9107
The tithe thereof . . 0 19 Of
CANTREFF.
William Winter rector there : it is worth in tithes of sheaves, cheeses, wool,
geese and similar things beyond 9s. 5d. paid to the ordinary jurisdiction
common years . . . . . .997
The tithe thereof . . 0 19 Of
VAYNO.
The church here and the tithes of sheaves and of other emoluments there are
worth common years £8 13s. 4d. Whereof in the ordinary visitation
9s. 5d .
And there remains clear . .8311
The tithe thereof . . 0 16 4f
LLANSPYTHYTT.
David ap Rosser vicar there : in tithes of sheaves, wool, hay, cheeses and
other emoluments there per annum it is worth £6 Os. IQd. whereof in the
ordinary jurisdiction yearly 3s. 2d.
And there remains clear . . 0 117 8
The tithe thereof . . 0 11 9
(27)
TALLAZDUY.
Master Combe rector there : in tithes of sheaves and other emoluments there £ s. d.
common years it is worth £4 17s. 4d. whereof in sinodals and procura-
tions each year 5s. 5d. . . . . .
And there remains clear . . 41111
The tithe thereof . 0 9 2J
ABRYSKER.
Morgan vicar there : it is worth in tithes of sheaves, lambs, cheeses wool and
other things common years £4 Is. 6d., whereof in a certain pension
paid to the Prior of Malvern 6s. 8d. And in siuodals and procurations
8s. 9d .
And there remains clear . 0 66 1
The tithe thereof . 0 6 7£
PENDERYN.
Geoffrey Thomas rector there : in tithes of sheaves, cheeses, wool and other
things it is worth £9 13s. 4d, whereof in sinodals and procurations each
year 9s. 5d.
And there remains clear . .9311
The tithe thereof . . 0 18 4f
LLANSEYNTFREDE.
David Thomas rector there : in tithes of sheaves, cheeses, wool and other £ s. d.
things it is worth common years £7 Is. Qd., whereof in a certain pension
paid yearly to the Prior of Brechon 6s. 8d. And in sinodals and procura-
tions yearly 10s. od.
And there remains clear . .685
The tithe thereof . 0 12 5£
LLANDETTY.
David ap R' rector there : in tithes and oblations it is worth common' years
£8 thereof in siuodals and procurations 9s. 5d.
And there remains clear . 7 10 7
The tithe thereof . 0 15 Of
LLANHAMLACH.
Thomas ap Jevan rector there : in tithes of sheaves, hay, wool and other
things it is worth £7 3s., whereof in the portion of the Prior of Malvern
per annum 11s. And in siuodals and procurations each year 10s. 5d. .
And there remains . .617
The tithe thereof . .0122
LLANVAES.
David ap R' clerk, vicar there: in tithes of sheaves, hay, wool and other
things it is worth common years £6. Whereof in sinodals and procura-
tions 4s. 6d. ...;..
And there remains clear . . 0 105 6
The tithe thereof . 0 1 1 6f
DEVVNOK.
David ap Jevan vicar there : in tithes of wool, hay, sheaves and other things
it is worth common years with a certain pension paid to Sir Laurence'
ap Kerry £15. Whereof in sinodals and procurations each year 6s.
And there remains clear . . 14 14 0
The tithe thereof . 0 29 5
(28)
LLUELL'.
Morgan Jones vicar there : in tithes of wool, hay, sheaves and other fruits £ a. d.
there it is worth common years £10. Whereof in sinods and procura-
tions each year 9s. Id. •
And there remains clear . o
The tithe thereof . 0 19 OJ
MEKCHEE.
Richard .... vicar there : in tithes and oblations it is worth common years
£8. Whereof in sinodals and procurations each year 9s. Id. .
Remainder . 7 10 5
The tithe thereof . . 0 15 OJ
LLANVRENACH.
Roland Griff' rector there : in tithes and other emoluments it is worth common
years 100s. Whereof in sinodals and procurations each year 9s. 5d.
And there remains clear . 4 10 7
The tithe thereof . 0 9 Of
LLTSWEN.
William Hide rector there : in tithes, oblations and emoluments there it is
worth common years £4. Whereof in sinodals and procurations each
year 5s. 5d. . . . •
And there remains clear . 0 74 7
Whereof the tithe 0 7 5f
CARCHPRENGUY PREBENDAL CHURCH.
The prebendal Church there is worth clear common years . 0 66 8
Whereof the tithe . 068
THE SECOND PART OP THE DEANERY OF BRECHON.
LLANVIHANGELL RECTORY.
William Nelson rector there : in tithes and other emoluments it is worth
common years £23 18s. \\d. And the Church of Llangattok is worth
in tithes and obventions of the same common years £41 4s. 8d. Sum
total £65 4s. Id. Whereof for siuodals and procurations each year 5s.
In the ordinary visitation each third year 5s. IQ^d. In fee of the bailiff
of Llanvihangell yearly 13s. 4rf. Also to portioners there yearly Is.
And there remains clear . . 60 17 8J
Whereof the tithe . 6 1 9|
LLANDEBACHLE.
John ap Howell vicar there : in tithes, oblations and other obventions it is
worth common years 104». 8d. Whereof in sinodals and procurations
each year 4s. 8d. ......
And there remains clear . . 0 100 0
Whereof the tithe . .0100
BRONLLES.
Symon .... vicar there : in tithes and oblations it is worth common years
110s. Id. Whereof in sinodals and procurations 5s. 3d.
And there remains clear . .41511
Whereof the tithe 0 9 7J
(29)
LLANKLEY.
Eicus Ph' rector there : in tithes and oblations it is worth common years £ s. d.
£4: 13s. Id. Whereof in sinodals and procurations 7s. Id.
And there remains clear . .463
Whereof the tithe . 0 8 7|
LLANGEXEDEK AND EGLUS YAILL.
Lewis (Lodowicus) Jones rector there : in (ithes and oblations it is worth
common years £14 Is. Whereof in sinodals and procurations 12s. 5d.
And there remains clear . . 13 14 7
Whereof the tithe . 0 27 o\
LLANGASTBY.
Roger Water rector there : in tithes and oblations it is worth common years
106s. 8d., whereof in sinodals and procurations 8s. Id.
And there remains clear . .4187
Whereof the tithe . 0 9 10 J
CRUKEHOWELL.
The rectory there in tithes and oblations is .worth common years 117s. 8d.,
whereof in sinodals and procurations 8s .
And there remains clear . . 0 109 8
Whereof the tithe . 0 10 llf
CRUKEHOWELL.
The vicarage there in tithes and oblations is worth common years £4 2s. 2d.,
whereof in sinodals and procurations 4s. 6d.
And there remains clear . 0 77 8
Whereof the tithe . 0 7 9£
CRUKEHOWELL.
The portioner there in his part of all the tithes there common years 101s. 8d.,
whereof in sinodals and procurations each year 7s. Id.
And there remains clear . 4 14 7
Whereof the tithe . 0 9 5J
LLAXVIHANGELL TALELLYN.
Thomas ap Jevan, clerk, rector there; in tithes and oblations it is worth
common years 106s. 8d. Whereof in the portion of the Prior of Brechon
to be paid yearly 5s., and in sinodals and procurations each year 9s. 5d.
And there remains . .4123
Whereof the tithe . 0 9 2£
LLANVILLO.
John Radderch, rector there ; in tithes and oblations it is worth common
years £7 7s. Gd. Whereof in a yearly pension to be paid to the Abbot
of Wigmore 7s. And in sinodals and procurations 10s. 9d. .
And there remains clear . 6 14 9
Whereof the tithe . . 0 13 of
LLANGARSE.
John David vicar there ; in tithes and oblations it is worth common years
119s. 4<f. Whereof in siuodals and procurations 9s. 5d.
And. there remains clear . . 109 11 0
Whereof the tithe 0 11 0
(30)
KETHODDYN (CATUEDINE).
Thomas GrifF' rector there ; in tithes and oblations it is worth common years £ s. d.
108s. 8d. ; allowance whereof 5s. 9d.
And there remains clear . . 0 102 11
Whereof the tithe . . 0 10 3£
THE THIRD PART OF BRECHON.
COMERDUY (CWMDU).
The vicarage there is worth in tithes and oblations common years £10.
Whereof in sinodals and procurations each year 6s. lid.
And there remains clear . .9131
Whereof the tithe . . 0 19 33
THE DEANERY OF BUELT
Within the Archdeaconry of Brechon.
MASEMYNNYS.
Walter Powell rector there : in tithes and oblations it is worth common years
£7 6s. 8d. with the annual pension yearly to be paid to Master John
Wliitmaye of 46s. Kd. Whereof in sinodals and procurations 5s. 5d.
And there remains clear . .713
Whereof the tithe . . 0 14 1£
LLANGAMMAROU PREBEND.
Richard Rawlyng prebendary there, appropriated to the Collegiate Church of
Aberguylly, of the collation of the Bishop of St. Davids : in tithes and
oblations it is worth common years with the chapels of Llanseyuffrede
Rayder and Laviched (Llauwrtyd) . . . .2700
Whereof the tithe . . 0 54 0
LLANGAMMARCH VICARAGE.
John Owen vicar there : in tithes and oblations it is worth clear common
years . ... . 8 14 5
Whereof the tithe . 0 17 5£
LLANYNYS.
Rice (Resus) rector there : in tithes and oblations it is worth clear common
years . . . . . .707
Whereof the tithe . . 0 14 Of-
LLAMBETER.
Lewis (Lodowicus) Jones rector there : in tithes and oblations and other
things it is worth clear common years. . . . .16176
Whereof the tithe .0339
LLANVTHULL.
The Church there in tithes, oblations and other emoluments there is worth
clear common years . . . . . .9132
Whereof the tithe . . 0 19 3
(31)
LLANAVON VAURE.
Doctor Leyson rector there : in tithes, oblations and other emoluments of the £ s. d.
said Church for his portion is worth clear common years . .987
Whereof the tithe . . 0 18 10£
THE DEANERY OF HAY,
Within the Archdeaconry of Brechon.
GLASEBERRY.
John ap Howell vicar there : in tithes and obventions coming to his portion
it is worth per ann. clear . . . . .1000
Whereof the tithe . 0 20 0
HAY VICARAGE.
Thomas ap Howell vicar there : and in oblations it is worth clear common
years . . . . . . .704
Whereof the tithe . . 0 14 0|
LLANYGON.
Thomas . . . vicar there : in tithes and fruits it is worth clear common
years . . . . . . 7 12 7
Whereof the tithe . 0 15 3J
STILL [sic] THE DEANERY OF ELVELL UCH MONETH,
Within the Archdeaconry of Brechon.
GLASCOMBE.
John ap Jenkyn vicar there of the collation of the Bishop of St. Davids : in
tithes and oblations every year for his portion there besides the part of
the rector it is worth clear common years . . .1368
Whereof the tithe . 0 26 8
DlSSERTHE.
Griffin Lloid rector there : in tithes and oblations it is worth clear common
years . . . . . . . 16 0 0
Whereof the tithe . 0 32 0
ABERDOY.
Lewis (Lodowycus) Morgan rector there : in tithes and oblations it is worth
clear common years . . . . . 12 13 4
Whereof the tithe . 0 25 4
CRYGEYNA.
John Howell rector there : in tithes and obventions it is worth clear common
years . . . . . . .968
Whereof the tithe . 0 18 8
LI/ANELWETH PREBEND.
Lewis (Lodowycns) Griffith prebendary there of the collation of the Bishop of
St. Davids under the collegiate Church of Aberguilly is worth clear
common years . . . . . 6 10 0
Whereof the tithe 0130
(32)
LLANSEYNTFBEDE.
The Prebendary there common years takes of the fruits of the same prebend £ s. d.
clear . • • • . 0 26 8
Whereof the tithe .028
LLANSEYNTFREDE.
David ap R' vicar of the said prebend takes yearly of the fruits there common
years clear
Whereof the tithe . 0 1 1 5f
LLANMYHANGELL LLAN MELAN.
Is worth in fruits common years in tithes and oblations clear
Nothing here because it is charged in the preceptory of Slebeche.
Clement Powell vicar of the said Church takes in tithes and oblations
common years for his portion clear . . .4134
Whereof the tithe .094
GLAXDESTRY.
Edward Semaii rector there takes clear in yearly tithes and oblations . 12 19 4
Whereof the tithe . 0 25 11|
NEWCHURCHE.
Philip ap R' rector there in tithes and oblations takes clear there common
years . . . . . . 106 8
Whereof the tithe . 0108
BEYNQWYN.
John ap Guyllim rector there in tithes and oblations takes clear common
years . . . • . . 11 6 8
Whereof the tithes . 0 22 8
CLYRE PRKBEND.
Andrew Rawlyngs prebendary there takes in tithes and oblations common
years clear of the collation of the Bishop of St. Davids under the Church
ofAberguilly . . . . . .768
Whereof the tithe . 0 14 8
CLYRE VICARAGE.
Lewis (Lodowycus) ap Jevau vicar of the said prebend takes in tithes and
oblations belonging to his portion common years . . .600
Whereof the tithe . 0120
LLOWES.
Geoffrey ap Owen vicar of the prebend there takes for his part there common
years in fruits clear . . . . 8 10 0
Whereof the tithe . 0170
BOCHERONDE LiLANBEDER AND CASTELL PAYNE PREBEND.
Andrew Whitemaye prebendary there of the collation of the Bishop of
St. Davids under the Collegiate Church of Aberguilly : in common years
it is worth clear . . . . .0134
Whereof the tithe 014
^
BOCHERONDE VICARAGE.
David Jevan vicar there takes common years in fruits of the same prebend
for his portion clear . . 1268
Whereof the tithe 0 24 8
(33)
LLANDYLO PREBEND.
Doctor Bagott prebendary there of the collation of the Bishop of St. Davids £ s. d.
under the Collegiate Church of Aberguylly is worth common years clear 9 13 4
Whereof the tithe . . . 0 19 4
WHYTTON.
Maurice William rector there takes common years in fruits of the same
Church clear . . . . . .479
Whereof the tithe . 0 8 9|
CASCOPPE.
Philip Parrok rector there takes common years in fruits of the same Church
clear . . . . . • .706
Whereof the tithe . 0 14 Of
BYGUILDY.
David Comaron vicar there takes of the fruits and emoluments of the said
Church appropriate to the Cathedral Church and there among other
things he is charged clear . . . . .7157
Whereof the tithe . 0 15 6f
LLANBYSTEB.
The prebend there with the chapels annexed of the collation of the Bishop of
St. Davids under the collegiate Church of Aberguilly whereof John
Whitemaye is the prebendary is worth clear common years . . 34 0 0
Whereof the tithe . 0 68 0
LLANBYSTER.
Owen ap Howell vicar of the said prebend of the collation aforesaid takus
yearly for his portion in fruits and emoluments common years clear . 6 114
Whereof the tithe . 0 13 If
LLANGONLLO.
Lewis (Lodowycus) Gr' prebendary of the prebend aforesaid with the chapels,
of the collation of the Bishop of St. David, under the collegiate Church
of Aberguilly is worth common years in fruits clear . .1300
Whereof the tithe . . 0 26 0
LLANGONLLO.
Hugh Goz vicar of the said prebend of the collation aforesaid takes in fruits of
the same common years clear . . . . .0 100 11 J
Whereof the tithe . . 0 10 \\
NANTMELL.
John Jamys vicar there, appropriate to the Cathedral Church, and there
charged pro rata nevertheless the vicarage is worth clear common years 11 17 4
Whereof the tithe . . 0 23 9
SANHARMON.
Stephen . . . prebendary there of -the collation of the Bishop of St.
Davids under the collegiate Church of Aberguilly, it is worth clear
common years . . . . . . 0 77 2
Whereof the tithe . . 0 7 8f
VOL. II. p
(34)
SANHABMON.
The same Stephen vicar there takes of the fruits belonging to the vicarage £ x. d.
common years clear . . . . . 0 115 2
Whereof the tithe . . 0 1 1 5£
LLANSEYNTFREDE PREBEND.
Richard Rawlyns prebendary there of the collation of the Bishop of St. Davids
under the collegiate Church aforesaid : it is worth common years clear .
Nothing, because the chapel is annexed to the prebend of Llangammarch.
HEYHEP.
David Math'o rector there takes yearly in fruits and emoluments of the said
Church common years clear . . . . 0 106 8
Whereof the tithe . . 0 10 8
LLANDEGLE.
Walter Warwyn prebendary of the prebend aforesaid of the collation of the
Bishop of St. Davids under the collegiate Church of Aberguilly : it is
worth common years clear . . . . . 0 100 0
Whereof the tithe . . 0 10 0
LLANDEGLE.
John Eaynalt vicar of the same prebend common years takes for his portion
belonging to the vicarage aforesaid clear . . . . 0 65 4J
Whereof the tithe . 0 6 6£
KENLLYS.
Hugh ap John rector there common years takes of the fruits of the same
rectory clear . . . .8193
Whereof the tithe . 0 17 \\\
Ll.ANBADERNE.
Sir Ynor rector there takes common years of the fruits of the said rectory
dear . . . . . 7 12 5
Whereof the tithe . . 0 15" 3
BLETHVACH.
Nicholas Bisforde rector there common years takes of the fruits of the said
rectory clear . . . . . . 10 11 11 J
Whereof the tithe . . 0 21 2£
MOGHTRE.
Thomas Longe prebendary there of the collation of the Bishop of St. Davids
under the collegiate Church of Aberguilly : it is worth common years
ulear . . . . . . 0 27 0
Whereof the tithe . . 0 2 8J
KYRY.
Richard ap Rx. vicar there of the collation of the Bishop of St. Davids takes
common years of the fruits of the vicarage there clear .17 84
Whereof the tithe . 0 34 10
LLANDRYNDDOD.
David Richards prebendary of the prebend aforesaid of the collation of the
Bishop of St. Davids under the college of Abergnillv takes common
years of the fruits there clear . . . . . 0 1 08 7
Whereof the tithe . 0 10 10|
(35)
THE MONASTERY OF COMHIRE. £ s. d.
The Abbot there has yearly in demesne lauds there with a house 20*. Also
in rents of lands and tenements in Golon' £18 6s. 8d. Also in Cumbyga
Arrostlye in rents 13s. 4d Also in Mouaghty Poydd in Melenyth
yearly 26s. 8d. Also in Gabalva in Elvell of yearly rent 57s. 4rf. Also
in yearly rents of certain lands lying in Brylley within the lordship of
Huntyndon 13s. 4rf. Also in Temcettor per annum 73s. id. Of the farm
of the grange called Carnaff which was wont to pay to the said Abbott
£6 per annum notwithstanding Roger Vachan holds the said grange for a
term of years of the grant of the said Abbot for the rent of 6s. 8d. yearly.
Of the grange of Gweruegowe in the lordship of Kery which was wont to
pay to the said Abbot yearly £8 8s. Od. Nevertheless as it is said the
said grange is put in mortgage to a certain John ap Rx for the term of
10 years not yet past without anything to be paid therefore etc.
Sum £28 1 7s. id. Whereof in the fee of John ap Rx. bailiff 3s. 4d Also
in money to be repaid to the lord of Temcetto 6s 8d. To the bailiff
there 6s. 8d. In the pension of Chirbery 8s. The fee of John ap
Rx. 20s. The fee of Richard Herbert 13s. id. The fee of the bailiff of
Golon' 20s. Sum of the deductions 78s.
And there remains clear . . 24 19 4
Whereof the tithe . . 0 49 11
BREKNOK VICARAGE
Is worth in wool, lambs and other oblations, profits and emoluments common
years as appears by the certificate of John ap Morgan and William
Gamys Esquires, and other commissioners of the lord the King by virtue
of the writ of the same lord the King to them in this behalf directed
and certified in the court of the said lord the King of First Fruits
and Tithes, bearing date the 23rd day of the month of June in the
37th year of the reign of our said lord the King . . 6 13 4
Whereof the tithe 013 4
PENKELLY FREE CHAPEL
Is worth in grain and hay by the certificate aforesaid common years . 0 53 4
Whereof the tithe 054
DEANERY OF KERMERDEN.
Within the Archdeaconry of Kermerden.
THE MONASTERY OF WHITLAND.
CHURCHES WITHIN THE DEANERY.
THE PRIORY OF ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST AT KERMERDEN.
Churches within, etc.
(36)
THE DEANERY OF LLANDEILO AND LLANGADOK,
Within the Archdeaconry of Carmarthen.
THE COLLEGE OF ST. MAURICE OF ABEEGUILLY.
The College there founded for ever of the foundation of Thomas de la Beke formerly
Bishop of St. Davids for the support of 4 priests, 4 choristers and 2 clerks there celebrating
divine service every day in the week and for the maintenance of the bread, wine, wax and
fabric of the said College so to be taken of the possessions and Churches underwritten one
year with another to the said use and not otherwise as appears by the foundation and
appropriation thereof made by the said late Bishop, to wit, of 3 closes enclosed with hays
or nets (indaginibus) to the said College annexed whereof one of the same is called
Ludfeld, which are worth per annum in all issues clear 13s. 4d. And of the portion of the
prebendary of Llangadok one year with another £18 ; and of the parish Church of
Methvey one year with another £13 6s. 8t/. as aforesaid appropriated to the use aforesaid
are worth £32 with the pensions yearly taken to the said use of 22 prebends which are
worth in the whole per annum £10. And so the whole exhibition is worth £42 whereof
the whole is expended for the use aforesaid.
And so there remains nothing clear.
CHURCHES WITHIN THE DEANERY.
MONASTERY OF TALLEY.
DEANEEY OF KYDWALLY,
Within the Archdeaconry of Carmarthen.
CELL OF THE PEIOR OF KYDWYLLY.
Churches Within the Deanery.
DEANERY OF GOWER,
Within the Diocese of Carmarthen.
Churches within the Deanery.
In the month of September in the 2nd year of the reign of the lord King Edward
the 6th.
THE CERTIFICATE of Lewis Haverd, Lewis William, Lewis Richards, commissioners of
the said lord the King by virtue of his Commission bearing date at Westminster the 25th
day of August in the year aforesaid to enquire into and upon the true yearly value of 'the
Church or Chapel of Llandevaylok Tref Crayg in co. Brechon made as follows :
(37)
LLANDEVAYLOK TREF CRAYG CHURCH OR CHAPEL IN Co. BRECON.
Is worth according to the certificate of the commissioners aforesaid, to wit, £ s. d.
in 28 acres of land by the year 4s. In tithe grain by the year 26s. 8d.
In tithe hay by the year 3s. In tithe cheese by the year 7s. And in
tithes of wool, lambs, linen, hemp, pigs and geese by the year 5s. 8d.
And in 3 days of oblations according to the Welsh custom 3s. Qd., in
the whole 50s. 6d. Whereof there are paid yearly to the patron of the
said Church or chapel according to the ordinance (order) thereof by the
council of the lord the King there made 23s. 4d.
And there remains . 0 27 2
The tithe thereof . . 0 2 8f
LLANVOYGAN RECTORY
Is worth per annum according to the certificate of Roger Harford alias £ s. d.
Havard, esq., Roger ap Roger, esq., Philip Havard and Jevan ap John
Glover, gentlemen, commissioners of our lord the King by virtue of his
commission dated at Westminster the. 9th day of May in the 5th year
of his reign returned into the court of our said lord the King of First
Fruits and tithes in the term of St. Michael in the year aforesaid : in
mansion and barn with 12 acres of arable land, Anglice, glebe lande of
the yearly value of 13s. 4rf. In tithes of grains one year with another
£9. Tithe hay 20s., tithe lambs one year with another £4. In tithe
wool 40s. In tithe cheese and white tithes, Anglice, Whitage one year
with another 46s. 8d. And in altarage one year with another 40s. Sum
of the whole value £21. Whereof paid to the Archdeacon of Brecon
for the procurations in the Archdeaconry of Brecknock yearly 6s. lid.
For sinodals to the Bishop of St. Davids yearly due and to be paid 6(7.
For procurations to the Bishop of St. Davids each 3rd year 2s. 8d., being
yearly according to the rate of 10|rf. and the third part of a halfpenny.
Sum deducted 10s. Id.
And there remains clear . . 20 9 11
The tithe thereof 041 0
The Foundation of Christ's College Grammar
School at Brecon, by Henry VIII, 1541.
FOR WILLIAM, BISHOP OF ST. DAVIDS, CONCERNING A GRANT TO
HIM AND HIS SUCCESSORS.
[Patent Roll, 33 Hen. VIII, Part 9, Membrane 30.]
The King to all, etc., greeting.
Whereas the College of Alberguylly (see Valor Ecdesiastieus, p. 36, ante) is situate in
an inconvenient place where no occasion is given of administering hospitably to others by
the men of the said College to the convenience and use of our subjects in the places
adjoining the said College to the grave damage of our said lieges.
And whereas also the house or priory of the Friars Preachers in our town of Brecknok,
in the south parts of Wales, with all and all manner of messuages, lands and tenements,
goods, necessary things and implements to the said late priory belonging now are or ought
to be in our hands and possession by pretext of the gift, grant and surrender of Richard
David, the late Prior, and the convent of the said late priory to us thereof made, by virtue
whereof we in right of Our Crown of England are seised in our demesne as of fee of the
said late priory, messuages, lauds, tenements, and other all and singular the premises.
And whereas also our subjects and lieges dwelling in the said south parts of Wales,
oppressed by great poverty cannot educate their sons well, and no " ludus literarius"
(Grammar School) is kept in those parts whereby both clergy and laity of every age and
condition are rude and ignorant both of their duty to God and of the obedience which they
owe to the King, and are even unacquainted with the common English tongue, so that they
cannot understand the obligations which the law imposes upon them.
And whereas also in the said college of Alberguylly stipends and salaries yearly
attaining to the sum of £53 sterling arc provided for the singers in the said college : which
said sum of £53 may be turned to better uses as in instructing young men and youths in
letters and in lectures to be given every day by some pious and learned man whereby the
truth may be made clearer to them and they may the better understand that which ought
to be done to God and the King, to the great advantage of all our people dwelling
there, as we understand more fully by the relation of William, Bishop of St. Davids.
We therefore of our great charity which we bear towards God and all our people,
wishing to provide a remedy in this behalf and to convert to much better uses than they
are now disposed in, clearly perceiving that all the premises may be much better disposed
of, and wishing to improve the estate of our subjects, of our special grace, and certain
knowledge and mere motion have given and granted and by these presents
Do give and grant to the said William, the now Bishop, all that house or priory of the
Friars Preachers, and all the soil and ground, precinct and circuit of the said late priory
and all the buildings, lands and tenements, rents, reversions and services, messuage, soils,
grounds profits, commodities, advantages and hereditaments whatsoever to the said late
priory belonging ; also all the chattels, things, necessary hustlemeuts and implements being
in the said priory at the time of the dissolution thereof or at any time after and to the said
late priory in any way belonging, of whatsoever sort or kind they may be. and in such
ample manner and form as the said Richard David, the last prior of the said house, or any
of his predecessors, had the said lands, etc.
(39)
And the reversion of the said late priory and other the premises. We also give to the
said now Bishop and his successors all our right, title, estate, claim possession, interest,
and demand in the said late priory and other the premises and in the reversion of the
same ; also all the liberties, franchises, rights and jurisdictions to the said priory and
premises belonging, as full}' and wholly as the said Richard David or any of his predecessors
held the same, and as fully as they all came to our hands by reason of the dissolution of
the said priory.
To have and to hold the said priory, soil, ground and precinct thereof, and all
buildings, messuages, lands, etc., goods, implements, etc., thereto belonging to the said
William, now Bishop of St. Davids, and his successors for ever, to be held of us and our
heirs by fealty only for all service and exaction.
And moreover of our special grace we give and by these presents grant to the said now
Bishop and his successors, all the issues, revenues and profits of the said late priory and of
all the said premises forthcoming from the time of the dissolution thereof up to the present
time and always afterwards : To have and to take of our gift without making any account
for the same to us and our heirs.
And further we give to the said William now Bishop of St. Davids and his successors
the said College of Alberguylly and the said late priory and 1 Close called le Close
Ymaenduy, and all the lauds and tenements, rents, reversions and services, messuages,
soil, grounds, profits, commodities, advantages and hereditaments whatsoever to the said
college and to the said priory at any time in any way belonging. We also grant to the
said Bishop that he may have these our Letters Patent, made and sealed under the Great
Seal of England, without making any fine or fee large or small into our Hanaper or
elsewhere to our use, so that express mention of the certitude or value of the premises or
of other gifts and grants made by us or our progenitors to the said now Bishop be not
mentioned in these presents, or any statute, act, ordinance, proviso or restriction to the
contrary made or ordained or any other thing, cause or matter whatsoever in anything
notwithstanding.
Moreover know ye that we of our special grace have granted to the ordinary and
diocesan of that place and to the patron, founder and dean of the said college of Alber-
guylly license, power and authority to expend freely the said £53 yearly to a better use
according to their wise discretions without any impediment or disturbance of us, our heirs,
sheriffs, justices, escheators, officers or ministers, and that they may freely found a certain
" Indus literarius " at Brecknock, and to apply the said £53 a year in procuring school-
masters and readers of Theology, who shall instruct all persons to learn and elucidate the
Gospel to the lieges gratis, according to the ordinances and statutes in this behalf to be
constituted by the said diocesan, ordinary and founder, without hindrance of us our heirs or
ministers, without taking anything from the same boys or their parents for the education
of the said youths.
And that the said late priory of the Friars Preachers shall from henceforth be called
by all Christs College (the College of Christ) of Brecknock, and for such college we take
and accept it by these presents, and desire that it may not be known in any other way
henceforward, and that the said now Bishop of St. Davids and all the prebendaries, canons,
choristers, vicars or ministers of the said college of Albergully, and all the " ludi "
masters, pedagogues, readers and other persons there and their successors may freely
dwell and inhabit in the said town of Breknok and in the Church of the said late priory
and in the other possessions, lands and tenements to the said late priory belonging and
within the circuit and precinct of the said late priory.
And that the said now Bishop of St. Davids and his successors may at their will freely
transfer the said residenciaries, prebendaries, canons, choristers, etc., of the said College of
Alberguylly to the said College of Christ of Breknok, and may cause them to dwell there
under pain of the statutes of the said college of Alberguylly at any time heretofore used
without molestation of us, our heirs or ministers.
And further we grant that the said now Bishop of St. Davids and his successors and
all other residenciaries, prebends, canons, etc., of the said college of Alberguylly and their
successors may freely and quietly and by inheritance have and hold to them and their
sncessors for ever all manors, messuages, lands and tenements, rents, reversions and
(40)
services, ad vowsons of Churches, vicarages and chapels, profits, emoluments, etc., and rights
whatsoever in any way given, granted, due or owing to the said college of Alberguylly or
to the fabric of the said college, and that they m:iy have, enjoy and use all privileges,
liberties, franchises, pre-eminences and rights whatsoever as fully and wholly and in as
ample manner and form as they and their predecessors in the college of Alberguylly before
had held and enjoyed, to the use and behoof, support and maintenance of the said College
of Christ of Breknok.
And we give and grant and by these presents confirm all and singular the premises,
priory, college, manors, lands, etc., etc., to the said now Bishop of St. Davids and his
successors as fully and effectually as if they had all been specially specified.
Witness the King at Westminster 19 January.
By writ of Privy Seal.
NOTES ON CHKIST'S COLLEGE.
The map which accompanies the Valor Ecclesiasticus marks only one priory existing
at Brecon at that date : that of the Benedictines, near the Priory Church, the lands of
which were granted to Sir John Price in 1542 ; and that except the Church of Llanfaes
there was no ecclesiastical building on the western side of the Usk.
Yet, from the above grant of Christ's College, it seems almost certain that there was
another priory, described as " the house or priory of the Friars Preachers in our towne of
Brecknocke," with messuages, lands, tenements, goods, necessary things and implements
belonging. And further, it will be seen, ante, in the Survey of the Duke of Buckingham's
possessions, that he was possessed of:
The Avowson of the priorye of the monkes of the Order of Saint Benet (Benedic-
tine) at Brecon ; and of
The Avowson of the priorye of brethren of the Order of Saint Domynik (Dominicans),
also at Brecon.
And tradition has it, that the latter-named Priory, with its buildings, stood where the
present College Church is placed ; and that the College lands, as we now know them, were
the demesne lands attached to this Priory.
If this be so, the Valor Map, which shows no Church building then existing there, and
also the text of the Valor itself, must be at fault. And it seems impossible, with our
present knowledge, to reconcile the two contradictory versions.
Passing on to the College or School itself, the history of it from the date of the
Foundation by Henry VIII to 1853, reveals very sad neglect of their duties by the
Ecclesiastical authorities placed in charge of its interests, including (save, perhaps, Bishop
Lucy), the Bishops of St. Davids successively, and the clergymen who from time to time
occupied the Prebends. The writer of these notes attended the school as a pupil about
the year 1845, and at that time the Chapel was disused, its floor covered with a thick
deposit of mud from the river floods, and the roof was in ruins. The school-room was one
long room, with porch and entrance door on the south-west at its centre, in which about
thirty boys — all day-scholars from the town — were taught by the then schoolmaster, the
Rev. Mr. Hill.
The School was, in fact, a very poor, half-starved one, and that notwithstanding the
foundation funds were ample ; but those funds, unfortunately, more suo of the Church of
that period, were diverted for the main part into the pockets of the Bishop of St Davids
as Dean, and of the various clergymen who held the Prebends.
About the year 1849, a great awakening took place, thanks to the strenuous exertions
of the late Sir Thomas Phillips and the late Sir Benjamin Hall, and the almost incredible
abuses that had grown up in the management of the College foundation were exposed.
This led to the subject being brought before Parliament, and on May 15th, 1853, an
Act was passed for the future " Eegulation of the College of Christ of Brecknock." And in
(41)
order to provide the necessary school buildings, the Ecclesiastical Commissioners undertook
to advance £5,000, and assist in other ways, on the understanding that the property of the
College, including the Prebends — many of which, being let on long-life leases, produced very
little net income — were placed in their hands to farm and manage.
The provisions of the Act are far from clear, but it would seem to me that the
Ecclesiastical Commissioners occupy the position of Trustees of the College j and that if on
a survey to-day of the College property transferred, the value is found to have increased
to any considerable extent, such increased value ought to be paid to the College, subject,
of course, to a deduction for sums advanced by the Commissioners, and also for the
additional grants made to those who discharge the duties at the various Prebendal
churches.
Christ's College is now governed by a scheme dated 28th June, 1880 (No. 605),
approved of by the (late) Queen's Most Excellent Majesty in Council. This scheme can, of
course, be altered at any time, if thought desirable, and on the proper steps being taken.
By the Education Act of 1902, this School has been placed under the Education
Department.
The Priory of Malvern.
LEASE OF LANDS IN BRECONSHIRE, 1538,
TO SIR JOHN AP EICE.
INDENTURE OF JOHN AP RICE, KNIGHT, FARMER OF THE LANDS IN
BRECKNOCK BELONGING TO THE LA.TE PRIORY OF GREATER
MALVERN, IN CO. WORCESTER.
[Land Revenue, Auditor's Enrolments, Vol. 228, fo. 10.]
This Indenture made the 8th day of Februarie the yere of our Lorde God after
the Computacion of the church of Englonde 1538 and the 30th yere of the Reingne of our
Sovereng Lorde Henry the 8th by the grace of God King of Englonde and of ffraunce
Defender of the faith Lorde of Irelonde and in erth Supreme Hedde of the churche
of Englonde between Thomas by the sufferance of God prior of the Monasterie of our
blessed lady and saynt Michael the archaungell of moche Malborne in the Countie of
Worcester and the Convent of the same place of the one partie, and John ap Rice
of London gentilman on the other partie.
Witnessith that the saide prior and Convent with one assent will concent and
agrement of all the hole chaptre have dimised graunted leissed and to ferme sett and by
theise presentes do dimise, graunte lesse and to ferme sett unto the foresaid John ap Rice
his Executors and assignes all that their londes tenernentes ffermes graunges Manures
woodes uuderwoodes tithes Comens fisshinges waters letes Courtes perquisites of Courtes
fraunchises rentes revercions and services and all other possessions aswell Spirituall as
temporall with ther appertenaunces advantages and emolutnentes what so ever thei be sett
lyeng and being in the lordeshipp and ton-lie of Brecknok in Southwales or els wher nigh
and about the same within Wales which do belong or appertayne to the said Monasterie or
reputed to be any part parcell or Membre therof.
To have and to holde the same londes tenemeutes ffermes granges Manners
Woodes underwoodes tithes commons ffiisshinges waters letes courtes perquisites of
courtes franchesies rentes revercions services and possessions afore saide with ther
appertenauuces and all and Singuler other the premisses uuto the saide John ap Eice his
VOL. II. G
(42)
executors and assignes from the ffeast of saynt Michael! the archaungell Last past before
the Date herof unto the ende and terme of 99 yeres then next ensueing fully to be
complete and ended.
Yelding and payeing therfor yerly During all the saide terme to the saide prior
and Covent and to their Successors £54 8s 8d. of good and Laufull money of Englonde at
too usuall ft'eastes of the yere, that is to say at the ft'eastes of the Nativite of saynt John
the Baptiste and the Natyvetie of our Lorde by even porcions the first payment to begin
at the ffeast of the Natyvetie of Saynt John the baptist next ensueing the date herof.
And it ys covenaunted and agreed betwene the saide parties that the saide John
ap Rice his executors and assignes and every of them from tyrr.e to tyme during the saide
terme shall discharge acquite and save harmelesse the said prior and Covent and ther
Successors of one perpetuall pencion of £10 sterling yerly paied to the viccarre of the
parisshe church of Marthir Kynog aud of a yerly pencion of 46s. 8d. paide to Morgan ap
gwillam celebrating in the chappell of Nantbrane and of 35s. for prexies and Synodalles
going owte yerly of the premisses And the said prior and Covent promisen and graunten
by these presentes to dischardge acquyte and save harmelesse the said John ap Rice his
Executors and assignes of the yerly tenth and first frutes due to our soveraigne Lorde the
King his heires and Successors by reason of the premises or any parte therof and of all
other charges and resolutes other then above lymitted to the charge of of the saide John
ap Rice as well Spirituall as temporall issueing owt or growing of the premisses or her after
by force of any imposicion shall or may be charged upon the premisses or any parte therof
which saide tenth first frutes charges and resolucions shal be allwaies borne at the onely
costes and charges of the said prior and Covent and ther Successors from tyme to tyme
during all the said terme.
And furthermore it is covenaunted graunted and agreed betwene the said parties
that all sufficient and Laufull grauntcs aud Leases as well of revercion by copie or copies
of courte roll for terme of lyves or otherwise as by Indenture or Indentures heretofore
made of eny of the premises by the said prior and covent and ther predecessors or any of
them to eny person or persons wherupon the olde accustomed rent or more is reserved
shall stande remayne and be in ther full strength and vertue to all and every such person
or persons to whom any such Leace or granule heretofore hath ben so made according to
ther nature of grante thereof to them made and the saide John his executors and assignes
the same and every of them being lawfull shall affirm e ratifie aud approve without gayne-
sayng molesting or resisting of them or any of them.
And if it happen the saide yerly rent of £54 8s. 8d. to be behinde unpaide in
parte or in all after any of the said ffeastes before mencioned in which it owght to be paid
by the space of Six wekes that then it shal be laufull unto the saide prior aud Covent and
their Successors into the said Landes and all other the premisses above letten to entre and
distrayne aud the distresse ther so taken to leade drive and cary away and with them to
retayne untyll the saide Somme of £54 8s. 8d. and every parte and parcell therof with the
arrearages of the same if any be, be fully contented and paid. And if it happen the .saide
yerly Rent of £54 8s. 8d. to be behinde in parte or in all after any of the said ffeastes in
which it owght to be payed by the space of thre Monethes and no Sufficient Distresse can
be founde in and upon the said londes and other the premisses that then it shal be laufull
to the saide prior and Covent and ther Successors into the saide Laudes and other the
premisses to re-entre and the same to be repossessed as in ther first estate and the saide
John ap Rice his executors and assignes from thence to expell amove and put owte any
thinge before mencioned to the coutrarye herof not withstanding.
Furthermore the saide prior and Covent for them and ther Successors covenaun-
tith and grauntith to and with the saide John ap Rice that if any parte or parcell of the
premisses above letten wherof the said prior and covent or any the predecessors have ben
in possession any tyme within Six yeres last past before the date hereof be laufully evicted
or taken awaye from the possession of the said prior and Covent or their Successours
wherby the saide John ap Rice his Executors or assignes cannot enjoye the same that then
the said John ap Eice his executors and assignes in that case shal be discharged of so
moche of the saide yerly rent as the saide parcell so evicted or taken away extendith and
amountith unto, All which Lease and terme of 99 yeres aforesaid in maner and forme above
(43)
specified the said prior and Covent and ther Successors to the said John ap Rice his
executors and assignee for the yerly rent aforesaide ageynst all persones shall warrant and
defende during the saide terme.
In witnesse wherof to that part of thiese Indentures reraayning with the saide
John ap Rice the saide prior and Covent have sett ther Commen seale and to the other
parte of the saide Indentures remaynyug with the saide prior and Coveut the saide John ap
Rice hathe set his seale yeven in the Chapter House of the Monasterie of Malvome
aforesaide the Daye and yere first above written.
Enrolled the 23rd day of December, 1 Edw. 6 [1547].
Grant of the Priory Lands at Brecon to
Sir John Price.
34 HENRY VIII— 1542.
A GRANT TO JOHN AP EICE, TO HIM AND HIS HEIRS [GIVEN AT A
PRICE IN THE CALENDAR].
[TRANSLATION.]
[Patent Eoll, 34 Hen. VIII, Part 2, Memb. 22 (3).]
The King to all, etc. Whereas we by indenture dated 8 June in the 32nd year of
our reign [1540] have granted and to farm let to John ap Rice of London, gent., all the
house and site of the late priory or cell of St. Guthlac, near the city of Hereford in co.
Hereford.
And whereas we also by another indenture dated 17 May, in the 29th year of our
reign [1537] granted and to farm let to the said John ap Rice the house and site of the
late priory of Brecknock within the bishopric of St. Davids, by the authority of Parliament
suppressed and dissolved, together with all the houses, buildings, barns, dovecotes,
orchards, apple-yards, gardens, waters, pools, vivaries, lands and soil within the site and
precinct of the said late priory, and all the lands, meadows and pastures underwritten here
to the said priory belonging, viz.,
1 close of land called Froglande and 1 small piece of land called Freglande,
1 pasture of arable land called le longe medowe and 1 meadow to the same annexed,
and 2 small closes of arable land called Westfeldes,
1 pasture called Horseclose, 1 close of land to the same annexed.
1 close of arable land called Davy Baghes,
1 close of arable land called peese close,
1 close of land called Colberclose [or Colverclose],
1 close of land called little Clapper and another called Create Clapper,
And 5 closes of arable land called Rywreth,
And 1 pasture called Monkystocke :
To have and to hold all the said premises from the feast of the Annunciation of the
Blessed Mary the Virgin in the said 27th year of our reign for the term of 21 years then
next following and fully to be completed,
Paying therefore yearly to us and our heirs for the said site, lands, meadows and other
the premises above specially specified £3 17s. 4d at the feasts of St. Michael the
Archangel and the Annunciation of the Blessed Mary.
(44)
Know ye that we as well in consideration of the good, true and acceptable service of
the said John to us heretofore rendered as for the sum of £100 17s. Gd. paid to the hands
of our treasurer of our court of the augmentations of the revenues of our Crown to our
use, of our special grace have given and granted and by these presents do give and grant to
the said John ap Rice the reversion of all the said site of the said late priory house or cell
of St. Guthlac.
Also the reversion of the said site of all the said late priory of Brechnock within our
said county of Brecon, and the reversion and reversions of all and singular the messuages,
houses, barns, etc., and of other the hereditaments whatsoever, being within the site,
circuit and precinct of the said late priory of Brecknok (1 large messuage called a " Towre"
nevertheless excepted and reserved).
Also the reversion of 1 close of land called Froglaud and of 1 piece of land called
Freglond, containing 40 acres of land,
Also of the reversion of 1 pasture called le longe medowe and of 1 meadow thereto
adjoining, containing 13 a. ; and of 2 small closes of \Vestfeldes, containing 14 a. of land.
And of 1 pasture called le Horse close, and of 1 close of land to the same adjoining,
containing 7 a.,
And of 1 close of arable land called Davy Baghes containing 3 a.,
And of 1 other close of arable laud called Peeseclose, containing 10 a.,
And of 1 close called Cnlberclose, containing 10 a.,
And of 1 other close of arable land called little Clapper, containing 3£ a., also of 1
close of land called the greate clapper, containing 8 a.,
And of 5 closes of arable land called Riwreth, containing 46 a.,
And of 1 pasture called Monkystoke, containing 20 a.,
Which said site of the said late priory of Brechnok and the said meadows, pastures
and closes, lie in the parish of St. John the Evangelist of Breckock in our said county of
Brecon and within the said bishopric of St. Davids, and lately belonged to the said late
priory of Brecknok as a cell of the late monastery of Bello in our county of Sussex, and
were formerly parcels of the possessions of the same late priory of Brechnok and of the
monastery of Bello, and were demised to the said John ap Rice by the said indenture dated
17 May in the said 29th year of our reign.
We give also to the said John ap Rice by these presents all the said rent of £3 la. 4rf.
[£3 17s. 4d. above] reserved to us upon the said demise ; also all and singular the woods
and underwoods growing upon the premises, and all the commons and fisheries to the said
premises belonging.
And further of our tibundant grace for the considerations abovesaid we grant to the
said John ap Rice all our said site of the late priory, house or cell of St. Guthlac.
Also all the said site of the said late priory of Brecknok, and all the singular the
messuages, houses, barns, dovecotes, stables, etc., within the said site, circuit and precinct
of the said late priory (all the said messuage called a " Towre" nevertheless excepted and
reserved).
Also all the said closes, feedings, meadows, lands and pastures called Frogland, le
longe medowe, Westfeldes, Horse close, Davy Baghes, peese close, Colberclose, little
Clapper, great Clapper, Riwreth and Monkystoke, and the said meadow adjoining the said
pasture called le longe medowe and the said other close adjoining the said pasture called
le Horseclose.
And all those our woods usually called le Helde and Bennyes wood, lying or being in
the parish of St. John aforesaid or of Bello, and all the soil, land and ground of those
woods, and the Said several rents of 44s. 9rf. and 67s. 4c?., and all and all manner of
commons and fisheries to the said premises belonging.
And further we hereby grant to the said John ap Rice the said site and other the
premises as fully and wholly and in as ample manner and form as Thomas Bysley, formerly
Prior or Governor (Gubernator) of the said late priory or cell of St. Guthlac or the last
prior [name not given] of the said late priory of Brecknok or the last abbot of the said
late monastery of Bello at any time before the several dissolutions of the said priories 01-
monasteries held and enjoyed the same ; and as fully and wholly as the same came to our
(45)
hands by reason or pretext of any charter, gift, grant or surrender by the said late priors
or abbots to us thereof made : which said site of the said late cell of St. Guthlac and all
other the premises thereto belonging are of the clear yearly value of 44*. 9d., and not
more ; and the said site of the said lute priory of Brecknok and other the premises thereto
belonging are of the clear yearly value of 67s. 4d. and not above . . .
To have hold and enjoy the said reversion of the said site of the said priory of
Brechnok, and of all the said messuages, houses, etc., thereto belonging ; also the said rent
of 67s. 4rf. ; also the said site of the said priory of Brecknok and all the messuages, lands,
etc., etc., thereto belonging (except as before excepted), to the said John ap llice and his
heirs for ever : to be held of us and our heirs in chief, by the service of the 50th part of
one knights fee, and paying yearly to us and our heirs for the said site and all other the
premises and for the said rent of 67s. 4d., 6s. S^d , to be paid yearly to our said court of
the Augmentations of the revenues of our Crown at the feast of St. Michael, in the name
of the 10th part and for the tithe of the premises.
We also grant to the said John ap Rice all such right, immunities, liberties and
privileges within the said premises as the said priors or abbots had and enjoyed in right of
the said late monasteries or priories.
And further we grant that we and our heirs for ever and from time to time will
acquit and exonerate as well the said John and his heirs as the said sites, houses, etc., of
all manner of corrodies, rents, fees, annuities, charges and sums of money whatsoever,
charged or to be charged upon the said premises except the several rents and services by
these presents to us and our heirs as abovesaid reserved. ....
Witness the King at Westminster, 13 November. By writ of Privy Seal.
[The above grant is of great length. I cannot find any other grant to any John
ap Price up to the end of Henry VIII's reign.]
Rectories of Talgarth and Mara (Llangorse),
etc., Co. Brecon.
GRANT OF, IN FREE FRANKALMOIGN AND PERPETUAL ALMS, TO THE
DEAN AND CHAPTER OF WINDSOR FOR EVER.
1 EDW. VI (1547).
TRANSLATION FHOM LATIN.
[Land Revenue, Auditor's Enrolments, Vol. 228, fo. 17.]
Edward the Sixth by the grace of God King of England, France and Ireland, etc.,
etc., to all to whom these present letters shall come greeting. Know ye that We being
desirous from our heart to fulfill in all things the will of our most 'dear father King
Henry 8th, as well in fulfillment of certain promises and legacies made in the said will as
in performance of certain grants and covenants specified in a certain indenture tripartite
made between us of the one part and our uncle and Counsellor Edward, Duke of Somerset,
governor of our person nnd protector of our kingdoms and dominions, the most reverend
in Christ Thomas Archbishop of Canterbury, William Paulet, Knight of the Garter, Lord
St. John and master of our household, etc., etc., of the second part, and William
Franckelyn, Dean of the royal free Chapel of St. George the Martyr, within the Castle of
(46)
Windsor, in co. Berks, and the canons of the same place of the third part, dated 4 August
in the first year of our reign [1547]. And whereas our said father by indenture dated
22 March, in the 28th year of his reign [1537], granted and let to farm to David ap Henry
the rectory of the parish Church of Habergwillie with the chapel of Llanlawet Llanpensant
thereto annexed, to the late monastery of Karmarthen belonging, together with all tithes,
oblations, profits and obventions to the said rectory and chapel belonging, except and
altogether reserved to our said father all great trees and woods growing upon the premises
in the said indenture specified, and the advowson of the vicarage of the Church of Haber-
gwilly : to hold to the said David ap Henry for the term of 21 years, paying therefore £30
at Lady Day and Michaelmas : and whereas also our said father by another indenture
dated 21 July, in the 32nd year of his reign [1540] granted and to farm let to Thomas
Butler the rectory of Talgarth in South Wales, formerly belonging to the late priory of
Breknocke within the bishopric of St. Davids, and being parcel of the possessions of the
said late priory, and all the tithes, oblations, profits and emoluments to the said rectory
belonging, except and reserving to our said father the advowson of the vicarage of the
parish Church of Talgarth : to hold to the said Thomas Butler for 21 years, paying
therefore £11 6s. 8d. at the feasts abovesaid.
Whereas also our said father by another indenture dated 6 March, in the 33rd year
of his reign [1542] demised and let to farm to William Watkyns of Marane in co. Brecon,
gent., all the rectory of Mara in said county, together with all tithes of sheaves and other
profits to the said rectory belonging, late in the tenure of John ap David Bere, Clerk,
formerly belonging to the late Priory of Breknoke in co. Brecon, within the bishopric of
St. Davids : to hold to the said William Watkins for 21 years, paying therefore £6 at the
feasts abovesaid.
Know ye that we for the consideration aforesaid have granted to the said Dean and
canons the reversions of all the said premises and all the said rents reserved : also all the
manors, messuages, lauds, tenements, meadows, feedings, pastures, woods, underwoods,
rents, reversions, services, courts letes, profits, glebes, tithes, oblations, obventions,
portions, pensions and all other commodities whatsoever as well spiritual as temporal
lying in the towns, fields, parishes or hamlets of Abergwelly, Llanbadock alias Wanlavell
and Llampemsant in co. Carmarthen, and in Talgarth and Mara in co. Brecknocke ; also
the advowsons, presentations, free gifts and right of patronage of the vicarages of the
churches ef Aberguilly, Talgarth and Mara; also the reversions of all other the said
Churches, rectories, tithes and other the premises, all the rents, revenues and other yearly
profits reserved upon any demises made of the said premises ; all our woods, underwoods
and trees growing upon the premises ; and the land and soil of the same : To hold all the
said premises to the said Dean and Chapter of Windsor and their successors for ever, to
be held of the King in free frankalmoign, pure and perpetual alms, paying therefore yearly
to us and our heirs for the said rectories of Abergwelly, Talgarth and Mara and the said
chapel of Llanbadocke and Llampensant £4 2s. 8d.
Moreover we grant to the said Dean and canons that we and our heirs for ever yearly
and from time to time will acquit and exonerate as well them the said Dean and canons
as also the said rectory, churches, chapels, etc., and all the said premises against us and our
heirs and all other persons, of all corrodies, rents, fees, annuities, pensions, portions, and
sums of money whatsoever issuing out of the said premises, except the rents and services
to us and our heirs reserved by these presents, and except £6 yearly to be paid for the
stipend of the curate of Abergwilly.
We also give to the said Dean and canons all the issues and profits of the said
rectories and chapels, forthcoming from the feast of St. Michael, 1546, up to the present
time, without rendering any account for the same.
Witness ourself at Hamptoncourt 7 October, in the 1st year of our reign [1647].
[Frank almoine is a title or tenure of lands bestowed upon God, that is, given to
such people as bestow themselves in the service of God for pure and perpetuall almes. —
Co WELL.]
THE BOUNDARY WALL OF BRECKNOCK PRIORY
(4,7)
The Prior of the Monastery of St. John and the
Vicar of the Church, Brecknock.
COMPOSITION.
[Stevens' Monasticon, Vol. I, p. 400. Monasteries of Benedictins.]
MS. COLLECTIONS OF MR. HUGH THOMAS.
ST. JOHN EVANGELIST'S.
Priory of Benedictins in the Town of Brecknock, in the County of the same Name,
in Wales.
Stands adjoyuing to the now Parish Church of St. John Evangelist (which was
formerly the church of the Monastery, as well as the Parish Church) for its Greatness and
Enclosures of strong embattled walls, looks more like a Town than a private House, as it
now is, having three Gates for Entrance into the outward courts. It was originally a
Monastery of Benedictins, but at the Dissolution of those Religious Societies given by
King Henry the 8th to the great Welsh Antiquary Sir John Price, and now in the posses-
sion of Jeffry Jeffreys, Esq., late Burgess of Parliament for the Borough of Brecknock.
Of this Monastery the Monasticon gives some account, Vol. I, p. 319, which may be
also seen in the English Abridgment thereof, p. 41. To what is there said, we have here
to add, a Composition made between the Prior of this House, and the then Vicar of the
Parish, in the year 1527, just before the Suppression, with the Confirmation of the same
by the Bishop of St. David's, in the year 1529, and the Ratification of the same again, by
the Dean and Chapter of St. David's in the year 1575, some Time after the Suppression,
as the same is now to be seen in the common coffer of the Town of Brecknock, and there
copyed by Mr. Hugh Thomas.
The Composition made between the Prior of the Monastery of St. John Evangelist of
Brecknock, and the Vicar of the same church.
Be it known to all that been now, and shall come hereafter, which shall hear, see, or
read these presents, that Robert Sadler, Prior of the House or Priory of St. John
Evangelist of Brecknock, within the Diocese of St. Davids, and the whole Convent of the
same place of the one Party, and Sir Thomas ap Jenkin Groge, Vicar of the Parish of
St. John Evangelist aforesaid in Brecknock of the other Party, have made a final Peace,
End, Translation and Composition real, through the Assent and Consent of their Ordinary,
and of all other having, or pretending to have any Right, Title, or Interest in this behalf,
for the said Parties and Successors for ever more, by such Covenants and Agreements, as
hereafter particularly followeth.
That is to say, the aforesaid Robert Salder, Prior, and the said Convent, of their own
express assent and consent have bounden themselves and their successors, under their Con-
ventual Seal, to the said Sir Thomas, Vicar, and his Successors for ever ; And the aforesaid
Thomas hath boundeu himself and his Successors, in likewise unto them and their
Successors under his Seal, for the true keeping and performance of all the singular Articles
and Covenants hereafter ensuing.
First, the said Prior and Convent willeth, and by these presents granteth, for them
and their Successors for ever, that the said Sir Thomas now Vicar, and his successors there
to come, shall have all manner of Titles, Offerings, Emoluments, longing or appertaining to
the aforesaid Church of Saint John Evangelist of Brecknock, with all the Chapels annexed
unto the said Parish, or to the said Prior and Convent by reason of the same, except and
(48)
reserved always to the said Prior and Convent and to their Successors, as hereafter
followeth ;
First, the said Prior and Convent do except and reserve to themselves all manner of
Grains, that is to wit, Wheat, Rye, Gates, Barley, and also Wax, with all other offerings
that come to the Rood Soller within the said Church. Also they do except all Offerings
and Emoluments done within the Monastery of Saint John the Evangelist in Brecknock ;
also they do except the Chapels of Battle, Monkton and St. Eylet, with all the Tithes,
Offerings and Emoluments belonging to them ; also they except and reserve to themselves
and to their Successors, the Manor and Grange of the Poole, with their Appurtenances,
that is to say, the Tyth Lamb, Cheese, Wool and Hay, remitting and giving all other
Tythes growing within the said Parish to the aforesaid Vicar, and to his Successors for
ever more.
Also they except and reserve all Offerings and Emoluments done within St. Lawrence
Chapel, being within the Parish Church of Brecknock, from the first Evensong upon
St. Laurence Eve, unto the last Evensong upon St. Laurence Day.
Also it is agreeably Covenanted between the said parties, that the said Prior and
Convent, and their Successors, shall cause all Sacraments and Sacramentals to be adminis-
tred within the three aforesaid Chapels, and to all the Inhabitants and Dwellers within
the precincts of the aforesaid Chapels, at all Times necessary, when they shall be
called upon, on the proper cost and charges of the aforesaid Prior and Convent and
Successors. Moreover, that it is between the said Parties agreed and covenanted, that the
aforesaid Sir Thomas and his Successors, shall elect and find a Curate, to serve and to bear
Cure and charge for the aforesaid Prior and Convent, and their Successors, of them that
dwell within, in Precinct and Limits of the Chapel of our Lady, set within the walls of the
Town of Brecknock, upon the Cost and Charges of the said Vicar and his Successors.
In like manner also, the said Vicar and his Successors, shall find Bread and Wine
within the aforesaid Chapel and Parish Church, at all Times necessary. Also that it is
covenanted that the said Vicar and his Successors shall have both Meat and Drink at the
said Prior's Torne Messe continually and daily, unless there be strangers with the said
Prior, and when there is no stranger, then he to use his said place at the Table (the said
Vicar paying every Quarter for his Meat and Drink six Shillings and Eight pence Sterling).
Also when that shall please the said Vicar to come, he to have his Beaver, at two of the
Clock at Afternoon ; and also after Supper, that is to say, a Cup of Ale at the Buttery
Hatch, if he demand it.
Also Covenant is, that the said Prior and Convent, shall have all manner of Offerings
done within the Chapel of St. Nicholas, being within the Castle of Brecknock ; and the
said Prior and his Successors shall find Masses to be sung or said within the said Chapel,
according to the old Custom there. And also Covenant is, that the said Vicar and his
Successors shall have no manner of Tyth Corn, Meal, neither Malt of any Mill belonging
to the said Prior, or House of St. John Evangelist ; nevertheless he to have privie Tythes
of the Farmers there at every Easter, according to their Conscience.
In Witness whereof the said Parties hath caused and procured this present Writing
of Composition to be made Tripartite, whereof one part to remain in the Custody of the
said Prior and Convent, the second to be in the Hands of the said Vicar, and the third to
be kept and reserved in the Register of St. David's, and to each of the same hath put
their Seals, and severally subscribed their Hands.
And also, for the more Assurance of the Premises, the Reverend Father Bishop of
St. David's, Ordinary and Diocesan of the said parish of Brecknock, and the whole
Chapter of the Cathedral Church of St. David's, giveth their Consent and Assent, ratified,
corroborated, and confirmed with their Seals and Writing. Given the first Day of August
in the Year of our Lord God, a Thousand five Hundred seven and twentieth. Also it is
covenanted, that the said Prior and Convent shall have and enjoy for ever more, to them
and to their Successors, the parish Church Yard of St. John Evangelist, and all that shall
grow therein, with all manner of Offerings that shall be done to all Images within the
precinct of the parish of St. John Evangelist aforesaid.
(49)
Demesne Lands of the Manor of Llyewel,
Co. Brecon.
PART OF POSSESSIONS OF EDWARD, LATE DUKE OF BUCKINGHAM,
(ALSO LANDS IN CARNARVON AND CARMARTHEN.)
LEASE FOR TWENTY-ONE YEARS TO HOWEL GWYNNE AND WALTER
VAUGHAN AT 20s. lOd, YEARLY FOR THE LLYEWEL LANDS.
23 ELIZ. (1581).
[TRANSLATION.]
[Land Revenue Records, Auditors' Enrolments, Vol. 231, fo. 105.]
COUNTIES OF CARNARVON, CARMARTHEN, AND BRECKNOCK.
Elizabeth, etc. Whereas we by Letters Patent dated July, in 15th year of our reign
[1573] granted to John Vaughau all those oblations, obventions, tithes, fruits, com-
modities and emoluments yearly growing and forthcoming from the rectories of Lltuide-
vaston alias Llandivaston and Llanvihangell Abertith alias Aberbuthegh in co. Carmarthen,
and all our farm of Brineywenny in the said county, to the late monastery of Talley
formerly belonging : to hold for 21 years, paying therefore yearly 40.?., the right and title
of which said John Vaugban in the premises Walter Vaughan, Esq., surrendered to us to
be cancelled, to the intent that we would grant him others Letters Pattent : which
surrender we hereby accept : know ye therefore that we for a fine of 42s. have granted to
the said Walter the 4th part of the town of Blethiock in co. Carnarvon.
We have also granted to said Walter Vaughan and to John and William Vanghan
sons of said Walter, all the oblations, obventions, tithes, fruits, etc., yearly forthcoming
from the rectories of Llandevaston and Llanvihangell and Abertith in co. Carmarthan ;
and the said farm of Brinegwenuy.
We have also granted to Howell Gwynne of Trecastell in co. Breknock, Esq., the
close of arable land called Kay glase containing . . . the close of arable land called
Kayer Krededeo, containing 3 a., 2 a. of arable land called Erowe Wergreuge, half an acre
of meadow called Key baghe, 1 parcel of arable land called Birretere cont'g 4 a. and 5 a. of
meadow now or late in the tenure of Nicholas ap DD ap Nicholas, 1 parcel of arable land
called Erowe DD ap Lin Erowe, Jankine ap Res and Erowe Res William containing 6 a.,
now or late in the tenure of the said Nicholas ap DD ; also 1 a. of meadow called
Sportery now or late in the tenure of the said Nicholas ; 1 parcel of arable land called
Erowe Vanghe, cont'g 2 a. in the tenure of said Nicholas; 2 a. of arable land called
Erowe DD ap Nicholas late in tenure of said Nicholas ; 1 clo»e of arable land called le
Buttes close oont'g 3 a., and 2 a. of meadow late in the tenure of DD ap Owen ap G'll'm,
1 parcel of arable land called Errowe yrcrose, cont'g 2 a., late in tenure of said DD ap
Owen, 1 parcel of arable land called Errowe Jankine Goz, cont'g 2 a., late in tenure of said
DD ap Owen, 1 parcel of arable land called le three longe Stangges, cont'g 2 a., and 2 a. of
meadow in tenure of said DD ap Owen ; and 1 parcel of arable land called le Kill acre
cont'g 2 a., in the tenure of the said DD ap Owen : Which said premises demised to the
said Howell Gwynne are parcel of the demesne lands of the manor of Llywell in co. Brecon,
late parcel of the lands and possessions of the late Duke of Buckingham attainted of high
treason ; and all profits, commodities, commons, wastes, emoluments and hereditaments
VOL. II. H
(50)
whatsoever to the said premises last demised in any way belonging, except and always
reserved to us and our heirs all woods, underwoods, mines and quarries on the premises :
To hold to the said Howell Gwynne and Walter Vaughan for 21 years, paying therefore
yearly for the premises parcel of the manor of Llyewell 20s. 10c£., and for the said 4th part
of the town of Blethiock \2d. at Michaelmas and Lady Day : And to hold the said
oblations, etc., in co. Carmarthen to the said Walter Vaughan for his life, and after his
death, to remain wholly to the said John Vaughan for his life ; and after his decease, to
the said William Vaughan for his life, paying therefore yearly 40s. at Michaelmas and
Lady Day.
A heriot to be paid after the deaths of the said Walter John and William, and the
said premises to be kept and left in good repair, and sufficient housebote, etc., to be taken
for repairs.
Witness at Westminster 26 May, 23 Eliz. [1581].
Upper Cantercelly Forest and Lands at
Llangoed, etc.
LEASE TO KERRY.
1 AND 2 PHIL. AND MARY, 1555.
[TRANSLATION.]
[Land Eevenue Eecords, Auditor's Enrolments, Vol. 229, No. 40.]
BREKNOCK.
Philip and Mary by the grace of God, etc., have granted to Thomas Kerry the
agistment of the upper forest of Cantrecelly in co. Brecon in South Wales now or late in
the tenure of Robert ap Gillyam, late parcel of the lands and hereiditaments of Edward late
Duke of Buckingham ; also the pannage of pigs within the said forest ; also all our
demesne lands in Llangoite, Obrelator, Llannarthe, Giddlelache and Warmeslake in the
said county now or late in the tenure of the said Bobert ap. Gillian), late parcel of said
lands ; also the fines of tenants in Crucaden and advowsous in said county, now or late in
the tenure of said Robert ap GTm, late parcel of said lands : except and always reserving
to us and our heirs all woods, underwoods, wards, marriages, mines and quarries : To hold
to the said Thomas Kerry for 21 years, paying therefore yearly £6 at Michaelmas and
Lady Day.
And the said Kerry shall cleanse and maintain all hedges, ditches, and enclosures
and all other necessary repairs of the premises, and shall leave the said premises in
good repair.
We give licence to the said Kerry to take and have on the premises sufficient
hedgebote, ploughbote and cartbote to be yearly expended there and not elsewhere during
the said term.
Witness ourselves at Westminster 7 May, in the 1st and 2nd years of our reign.
[1555. J
(ol)
Demesne Lands of Dynas, the Forest of Dynas,
and King's part of Brecknock Mere,
LATE PART OF THE POSSESSIONS OF THE EAEL OF MAECH.
8 ELIZ., 1566.
LEASE OF 21 YEARS TO ROGER VAUGHAN, ESQ., ON PAYMENT OF
FINE AND EENT.
[TRANSLATION.]
[Land Eevenue Eecords, Auditors' Enrolments, Vol. 232, fo. 173.]
The Queen to all, etc. Whereas King Edward 6 by Letters Patent dated 16 Feb., in
the 4th year of his reign [1550] granted to Roger Vaughan, Esq., all those demesne lands
of Dynas, cont'g 100 a. ; 1 parcel of land and pasture called le newe parke, cont'g 60 a.;
1 parcel of land of heath ground called Parcktlenchire, cont'g 140 a. ; the herbage and
pannage of 1 parcel of land called le Forest of Dynas, all his (the King's) part of the pool
called Brecnock Poole or Brecnock mere formerly belonging to the Earl of March : All
which said premises were then in the tenure of William Vaughan, knt., and lie in Talgarth
and Llangorse in co. Brecnock, and were late parcel of the lands and possessions of the late
Earl of March, except and always reserved to the said King and his heirs all large trees
and woods growing on the said premises : To hold to the said Roger Vaughan for 21 years,
paying therefore yearly 5 . 3 . 4 at Lady Day and Michaelmas : Which said Letters Patent
and all his right and title to the premises the said Roger Vaughan has now surrendered
to us to be cancelled, to the intent that we may grant him other Letters Patent, as
follows :
Know ye therefore that we for a fine of £20 13s. 4d. paid to our use by the said
Roger Vaughan have granted to him all the premises above specified, saving to us and
our heirs all large trees, woods, underwoods, mines and quarries : To hold to the said Roger
Vaughan for 21 years, paying to us and our heirs yearly therefore £5 3s. 4d. at the feasts
abovesaid.
The said Roger to cleanse and maintain all hedges, ditches, enclosures, etc., at his
own expense, and to have hedgebote, etc.
Witness the Queen 9 Nov. in the 8th year of her reign [1566].
(52)
Inquisition on the Death of the Earl of Essex,
POSSESSED OF THE MANGES OF PIPERTON AND PENKELLY
ENGLISH. HELD AT BRECON.
43 ELIZ., 1601.
[See Vol. I, p. 146.]
[TRANSLATION.]
[Land Revenue Records, Auditors' Enrolments, Vol. 233, fo. 197.]
Inquisition taken at the castle of Brecon in co. Brecon 2 May, 43 Eliz. [1601], before
Harbart Crofte receiver of co. Brecon, Geoffrey Duppa, supervisor of said county, John
Games of Newton and John Price, Esqrs, by virtue of a commission to them and others
directed, by the oath of Edward Games, junior, gent., John Morgan, David John, David
Watkin, Madoc ap John, Lewis ap Owen, Philip Prosser, Jeukin Morgan, David Thomas,
Davidd Gwillym, Walter Thomas, Rice Powell ap Res, John Guuter, Thomas William,
Powell Rice Evans Meredith ap Richard Morgan Thomas David and John ap Res Goz,
who say that
Robert late Earl of Essex long before the 8th day of February, 43 Eliz. [1601] was
seised of the manor of Piperton in co. Brechon, of what estate the jurors know not.
So seised, the said Earl long before the said 8th Feb. last past, to wit, on the 25th
day of October, 34 Eliz. [1592] by an indenture under his seal, as well for the good service
rendered to him by Gellius Merrike then Esq., afterwards knight, then his (the Earl's)
servant as for other considerations, demised to the said Gellius Merricke the site of the
manor of Piperton, and all the houses, buildings, orchards, gardens and curtilages thereto
belonging ; also all the demesne lands of the said manor, meadows, pastures, woods and
underwoods then of the said Earl in Piperton, by the name of all that farm, place or
tenement and all the lands, meadows, feedings, pastures, arable lands, commons and other
the appurtenances to the said tenement belonging, lying in Piperton in said county,
formerly in the tenure of Thomas Merricke and then in that of the said Gellius Mericke :
To hold for 21 years, paying therefore yearly £4, at Lady Day and Michaelmas : by virtue
of which said demise the said Gellius entered into the said premises and was thereof
possessed. And so being thereof possessed the said Gellius on the 1 7th May, 34 Eliz.
[1592] for £100 to him paid by Roger Vaughan, Esq., granted to the said Roger all his
estate, term and interest in the said tenements : To hold for 21 years : by virtue whereof
the said Roger Vaughan entered into the said premises and was thereof possessed.
The said Earl of Essex long before the said 8th day of February was seised of the
manor of Penkelly English in co. Brecon in fee tail by virtue of Letters Patent made to
Walter, late Lord Ferris of Chattley and afterwards Viscount Hereford, great-great-
grandfather of the said Earl of Essex and to the heirs male of the said Lord Ferris
for ever.
The said manor of Piperton is worth per ann. £6 10s. Od. The manor of Penkelly
English is of the yearly value of £18 11s. 5d.
(53)
The Prince of Wales, by his Commissioners,
to Henry Pratt, Gent.
(IN VIRTUE OP THE LORDSHIP OF BRECON HELD BY HIM FOR
DIVERS YEARS YET TO COME).
LEASE FOR 21 YEARS OF TWO WATER, CORN MILLS LATELY ERECTED
BY THE LESSEE ON THE RIVER USK, AT £20 RENT.
21 JAS. I, 1624.
[Copy.]
[Land Revenue Records, Auditors' Enrolments, Vol. 236, fo. 121.]
This indenture made 27 February, 21 Jas. I [1624], between Sir Henry Hobart,
knight and baronet, Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common Pleas and Chancellor to
Charles Prince of Wales, Sir James Fullerton, knight, Master of the Court of Wards and
Liveries, Sir John Walter, kt, Attorney General and Sir Thomas Treavor, kt., Solicitor
General, of the one part and Henry Pratt of London, gent., of the other part : whereas the
said Sir Henry Hobarte and others are possessed inter alia, of the lordship of Brecon with
the rights, members and appur'ts in co. Brecon, whereof the mills hereafter mentioned are
parcel for the term of divers years yet to come, for the only use of the said Prince. Now
this indenture witnesses that the said Sir Henry Hobarte and others by command of the
said Prince, as well in consideration of the sum of £20 paid to his highness' receiver general
as for the yearly rent herein after reserved, and also in consideration of the surrender and
extinguishment of all such estate and interest as the said Henry Pratt now has in the
premises ; have granted and to farm let to the said Henry Pratt all those 2 water corn
mills with appurt's lately erected by him the said Henry Pratt at his own charge upon the
river of Uske adjoining the town of Brecon in co. Brecon, with all waters, water courses,
gulfes, banks, quickstreames, suit, soke and mulcture, together with all other profits,
commodities, emoluments and hereditaments whatsoever to the said mills belonging. To
hold the said 2 water corn mills and all and singular the premises to the said Henry Pratt
his executors, and assigns from the feast day of St. Michael the Archangel last past to the
full end and term of 31 years immediately following, paying therefore yearly the yearly
rent or sum of 5s., at the feasts of the Annunciation of our Blessed Lady St. Mary the
Virgin and St. Michael the Archangel, to be paid to the hands of the particular receiver of
the premises : Provided always that if it shall happen the said yearly rent of 5s. to be
unpaid at any of the said feasts by the space of 28 days, that then this present lease and
grant shall be utterly void and of none effect.
And the said Henry Pratt for himself his heirs and assigns doth hereby covenant and
grant that he and they will from time to time and at all times hereafter when and as often
as need shall require well and sufficiently repair, amend, maintain, scour and keep in good
repair the said 2 mills and all " fludgates weeres, sluces, dammes bankes watercourses and
other necessarie things" in and about the said mills and premises during the said term,
and the same at the end of the said term well and sufficiently repaired, maintained scoured
and kept will leave and yield up. And that the said Henry Pratt will enroll this lease
with the auditor of the premises within 6 months after the date hereof upon pain of
forfeiting to his highness £5. And lastly that the said Henry Pratt shall within 2 years
next ensuing and also once in every 10 years during the said term deliver to his highness
a true and perfect survey of the said mills and of all watercourses, streams, floodgates,
profits and commodities thereto belonging.
(5*)
Impropriate Tithes of Llangattock, Criekhowell,
Llangeney, Llanelly, and Cwm Buy, Sequestered
for the Deliquency of the Earl of Worcester.
LEASE BY THE COMMONWEALTH TO RICHAED BIRCH OF THE TOWER
OF LONDON, GENT., FOR ONE WHOLE YEAR AT £150 RENT.
1654.
[This Lease was never enjoyed, being claimed by the Commissioners for the
Propagation of the Gospel.]
[ENGLISH.]
[Land Revenue Records, Auditors' Enrolments, Vol. 237, fo. 256.]
BRECON.
This Indenture made 16th May, 1654, between Josias Berners, Edward Winslowe,
Richard Moore, John Upton, Edward Gary and Rice Williams, Esqrs., commissioners for
managing and disposing of all the estates of delinquents and Papists now under sequestra-
tion of the one part, and Eichard Birch of the Tower of London, gent., of the other part,
witnesses that the said commissioners in pursuance of an order of his highness Oliver Lord
Protector of England, etc., with the advice of his highness " councell" for that purpose
made, and grounded upon the certificates of our auditor made upon the returns of the late
commissioners for sequestrations in co. Brecon : Have demised and to farm let all those
the tithes impropriate of corn, grain, hay, wool, lambs, hops, hemp, flax and all other tithes
whatsoever growing and arising in the parishes of Llangattocke, Criekhowell, ye Porcionary
of Criekhowell Llangeney, Llauelley, and Cwm Buy and the fields and precincts thereof in
said co. Brecon, with the profits, advantages, increase and benefit thereof, now sequestered
for the delinquency of Edward Earl of Worcester : To hold to the said Richard Birch his
executors and assigns from the 20th day of March last for 1 whole year, paying therefore
into the hands of the Treasurers at Goldsmiths Hall to the use of the Commonwealth £150,
over and above all ordinary charges to church and poor, on the 29th day of September and
the 29th day of March : Provided always that if the said rent of £150 be behind or unpaid
at the said days of payment, although the same be not demanded, that then and from
thenceforth it may be lawful for the said commissioners to wholly re-enter into the said
premises and to have the same again, and to expell and amove the said Richard therefrom
and that then this lease shall cease and be ntterly void.
Sealed and delivered in the presence of us
Tho. Fowle R. BIRCH.
Dan. Haucocke.
Entered 21st March, 1655.
(55)
As to John Jeofreys, an Outlaw.
SEIZUEE OF THE MESSUAGE OF ABERCYNEIK BY DANIEL
WILLIAMS, SHERIFF OF CO. BRECON.
INTERPLEADER SUIT BY BARTHOLOMEW AND DAME VICTORIA PRICE,
HIS WIFE, CLAIMING POSSESSION.
24 & 25 CHAS. II., 1673.
[Land Revenue Records, Auditors' Enrolments, Vol. 238, fo. 210.]
COMMON PLEAS OF THE TERM OF ST. HILARY, 24-25 CHAS. II., 1673.
Memorandum that Richard Anwyll, gent., clerk of the outlawry on the 12th day of
February in this term in his proper person delivered to the court the transcript of a letter
of outlawry promulgated against John Jeofreys, Esq., and the inquisition thereupon taken,
for further execution to be done therein for the King : the tenor of which said transcript is
as follows : Brecon, Charles II by the grace of God, etc., to the sheriff of Brecon, greeting.
We command you that you do not omit on account of any liberty of your county, but that
by the oath of good and lawful men you enquire diligently what goods and chattels, lands
and tenements John Jeffreryes of the Priory (Priore) of Brecknocke in your county, Esq.,
has or had in your bailiwick on the 17th day of May, in the 24th year of our reign, on
which day he was outlawed in co. Middlesex at the suit of Richard Lasinby of plea of debt,
whereupon he was convicted, and to take into our hands and keep safely those things
which you shall find by the Inquisition, so that you may answer to us for the true value
and issues of the same. And because the said John the outlaw is lurking and running
hither and thither in your county to our contempt and to the prejudice of our Crown as
we understand, we command you to take the said John wheresoever in your bailiwick he
may happen to be found as well within the liberty as without, and keep him safely so that
you may have his body before our Justices at Westminster in the octaves of the Purification
of the Blessed Mary, so that there may be done to him as the court shall consider.
Witness : J. Vaughan at Westminster 28 Nov. 24 Chas. II [1672].
John Jeffryes, Esq., is not found in my bailiwick. The residue of the execution of
this writ appears in a schedule to this writ annexed Daniel Williams, Esq., sheriff of the
county of Brecon.
Inquisition taken at Llanspythit in the said county ou Tuesday, the 4th of February,
25 Chas. II [1673] before Daniel Williams, Esq., sheriff of co. Brecon, by the oath of
Thomas William Beavan, Rice Watkin, Gr. William, Watkin Vaughan, Walter Lewis, Rice
ap Evan, Thomas Morgan, Henry John, William John, William Howell, Lewelin Jenkiu
and John Thomas, who say that John Jeffryes, Esq., is seised in his demesne as of fee of
1 messuage and divers parcels of land, arable, meadow, pasture and wood called Aber-
cunryk, situate in the several parishes of Llanbrynach and St. Davies, in the said county,
and now in the tenure of Roger Williams, of the clear yearly value of £100 : which said
premises I (the sheriff) took into the hands of the King and kept safely.
And now on the said 12th Feb., in this term came here Bartholomew Price, Esq., and
Dame Victoria Uvedale his wife, holding the said premises, and pray that they may hear
(56)
the said transcript of the writ and the return of the same and the said Inquisition read and
they are read to them : having heard them read, they complain that they have been much
troubled by reason of the premises and they say that the said premises have been taken
into the King's hands unjustly, because they say that the said writ and return are
insufficient in the Ian- and that therefore they need not and are not bound by the law of
the land to answer for the plea, nevertheless they say that long before the said 17th day
of May, to wit, on the 1st day of August, 16 Chas. II [1664] the said John Jeffreys was
seised of the said premises, inter alia, in his demesne as of fee, and so seised, a fine was
levied at Brecon on Monday 1 Aug., 16 Chas. II, before Richard Lloyd, knight, and Arthur
Trevor, Esq., Justices of the Great Sessions between the said Bartholomew Price, pit.,
and the said John Jeffryes and Mary his wife, by the names of John Jeffryes, Esq.,
and Mary his wife, of the said premises, by the name of the manor of Abercun-
ryke and 7 messuages, 3 tofts, 1 mill, 7 cottages, 1 barn, 10 gardens, 500 a. of land,
200 a. of meadow, 600 a. of pasture. 100 a. of wood and 500 a, of furze and heath in
St. John the Evangelist, St. Davids, CantrefT, Llanvrynach, Llanvigan and Llanhamlach,
whereupon a plea of covenant was summoned between them in the same court, to wit, the
said John and Mary acknowledged the said premises to be the right of the said Bartholomew
as those which he had of their gift and the same remised and quit-claimed to the said
Bartholomew and his heirs for ever : which said fine was so levied to the use of the said
Bartholomew Price and Dame Victoria Uvedale and their heirs for ever : by virtue of
which fine and by force of the Statute of Uses the said Bartholomew and Dame Victoria
entered into the said premises on the 2nd day of August in the said 16th year Chas. II
[1664] and were thereof seised in their demesne as of fee, until the said Samuel Williams
Esq., late sheriff of Breconshire by pretext of the said outlawry seised the said premises
into the hands of the King : all which things the said Bartholomew and Dame Victoria are
ready to prove and they pray that the King's hands may be amoved from the possession
of the said premises and that they may be restored to their possession thereof: together
with the issues and profits thereof and may be dismissed from the court. And because
the court wishes to be further advised about the said plea, a day is given to the said
Bartholomew and Dame Victoria from the day of Easter in 15 days, at which day they
came and then they had a day given them up to the octaves of Holy Trinity, at which day
they came and then had a day given them from the day of St. Michael in 3 weeks, at
which day they came. And Heneage Pinch, kt. and Bar't. the King's Attorney General
was present in court and being asked by the Barons whether he had anything further to
say for the King against the said Bartholomew and Dame Victoria, says that for that by
inspection of the said fine in the said plea and the said indenture it is manifest to him that
the said plea contains the truth, therefore he does not wish to prosecute further.
Whereupon the said Bartholomew and Dame Victoria pray judgment, and it is
considered by the Barons upon view of the premises and mature deliberation that the
King's hands shall now be amoved from the possession of the said premises and the said
Bartholomew and Dame Victoria restored to the same ; and that the said Daniel
Williams, Esq., late sheriff of Breconshire and all others then, and now, and who from
henceforth shall be sheriffs there shall be exonerated from the issues and profits of the said
premises whereof the King has not been answered, by pretext of the premises.
Entered 11 Dec., 1673.
(57)
Confirmation of the Grant of 5 Jas. I (1607)
of Lordships and Estates of the Marquis
of Worcester.
IN THE COUNTY OF BRECON AND OTHER COUNTIES, AND WHICH
HAD BEEN FORFEITED BY THE COMMONWEALTH.
EXEMPLIFICATION AT THE REQUEST OF HENRY, MAEQUIS OF
WORCESTER.
29 CHAS. II, 1677.
[Land Revenue Records, Auditors' Enrolments, Vol. 238, fo. 160.]
Charles the Second by the grace of God, etc., to all to whom these present Letters
shall come, greeting.
We have inspected the enrolment of certain Letters Patent, dated 11 Sept., 5 Jas. I
[1607], made to Edward Earl of Worcester in these words: Know ye that we in con-
sideration of the faithful service rendered to us by our kinsman Edward Earl of Worcester
have granted to him and his heirs that they may have and hold within his castles, manors,
lordships and borough of Chepstoll and England, and within his manor of Barton alias
Pentherie, aud within the late monastery of Tynturne and the manors thereto belonging in
cos. Monmouth and Gloucester, and within the lordships manors aud lands of Wiesham
and Troy in cos. Monmouth and Glouc., and within his manor of Tndenharn in co. Glouc.,
and within the boroughs, castles, manors and lordships of Crekehowell and Tretowere in
co. Brecon, and within the borough, castle and manor of Swansey, Oystermouth aud
Llonghour, and within his lordship and lands of Gower and Kilvey and within the manors
of Kithull Trivdvalimon, Penard and West Gower in co. Glamorgan these liberties
following : That he and his heirs by bailiffs by them to be deputed may have the full
return of all writs as well of assize of novel disseissin, death of ancestors aud attaintures as
of all other writs, commands, precepts and bills of us and our heirs and of our Justices aud
commissioners, to be prosecuted at the suit of whomsoever, also all summonses from our
Exchequer and elsewhere and all executions of the same ; and that none of our sheriffs or
ministers shall intermeddle with such returns or executions, or enter into the said premises
for the execution of the premises, unless it shall be for default of the bailiff of the
said Earl.
We have granted also to the said Earl and his heirs that they may have all fines for
licence to agree for whatsoever lands within the said premises, and all fines, issues,
amercements, redemptions and penalties of all their men, tenants aud residents within the
said premises in any of our courts wheresoever they may be assessed or imposed ; also all
" Wayfes and Strayes," and all goods aud chattels of felons in whatsoever of our courts
they may be convicted, and all the goods and chattels of fugitives and outlaws and of felons
de se, aud all other goods, deodands and treasure trove found forfeited to us. None of the
men or tenants residing within said premises to be brought into plea before the sheriff for
a debt under 40s.
The said Earl and his heirs may appoint their own coroners within said premises, who
shall have full power to do all things belonging to their office ; also their own clerks of the
VOL. II. I
(58)
market, having full power to do all things belonging to their office. The said Earl and his
heirs may also hold before the steward all pleas and other things belonging to the office
and court of admiralty for all causes, plaints and actions touching the said Earl or
his heirs.
They may also have wrecks of the sea, warfage and tolls ; also courts baron and courts
leet and view of frank pledge, and all fairs, markets, tolls, liberties and privileges whatso-
ever ; also all wines and tuns of wines called " prise wines" of whatsoever kind happening
within Chepstoll, Swansey and Gower, and within any port or creek of the sea within the
said premises, and licence to take the same and convert them to their own use, without
contradiction of us or our ministers ; also butlerage of all the wines and all the profits by
reason of the said butlerage happening to us within the said premises : To hold the said
prize wines and butlerage to the said Earl and his heirs for ever, to be held of us and our
heirs in free socage, paying therefore to us for each tun of prisage wines '2s. 6d., and for
each tun of Butlerage wines 2s. yearly at Michaelmas to the hands of our Treasurer or
chief Butler, and we firmly enjoin our said chief Butler and collectors of customs not to
intermeddle with the said wines. Witness the King at Westminster 11 Sept., 5 James I
[1607.]
Now we at the request of Henry Marquis of Worcester have thought fit to exemplify
the tenor of the said enrolment by these presents.
Witness Ourself at Westminster, 28 Nov., in the 29th year of our reign [1677J.
Entered 13 Dec., 1681.
Earl Talbot's Estates in Breconshire (Newton
Mansion in the Parish of Llanspythid, etc.),
in 1783.
[Maybery Papers.]
ABSTEACT OF TITLE OF ET. HON. JOHN CHETWYND, LORD TALBOT, AS
TO NEWTON (PARISH OF LLANSPYTHYD) AND OTHEE PROPERTY
IN THE COUNTY OF BEECON.
In 1693 (March 6),
Articles of Agreement indented between
Thomas Walker and Elizabeth, his wife, of Newton . . 1st part.
Florence Lucy, widow, of Brecon .... 2nd „
Catherine Games, spinster, of Newton . . . 3rd „
Edward Jones of Buckland, Esq. . . . )
William Vaughan of Trebarried, Esq. . . 4th ,,
Thomas Price of Glyn, Gentleman )
Recite, that on the death of John Games, of Newton, the lands hereinafter mentioned
descended to the said
Elizabeth
Florence
Catherine
his sisters and coheirs (John Williams, the son of Daniel Williams, of Penpont, Esqre., and
Blanch, his wife — another sister of the said John Games — having died before he attained
the age of 21 years unmarried, and his mother Blanch being also deceased), and that they
had agreed to the division of the Estate by the three Referees named, as follows :
(59)
That Thomas Walker, his wife and heirs, shall occupy and enjoy
The capital mansion, called Newton and Mill, houses, gardens, etc.
Brinhill bach and Brinhill mawr. Kaia Velinycha and Taier bach.
Llwyage in Devynnock.
Gavartha.
Tyr Blaen Rheon.
Bolgoed Medw.
Llwyny mawndy ycha and Issa,
Pont Estill.
Tyr Pentwyn in Llanspythtd, and other premises in Llanfaes, as their full share.
That Florence Lucy and her heirs should have the messuage of
Pytin Gwyn and other messuages and lands as her share.
That Catherine Games and her heirs should have
Pytinduy,
Gelligiloges,
Glanmansed, otherwise Vrachfynydd, and other lauds in Llanddew.
Forth Gwyn and Talwen Vach in Garthbrengy.
Messuages and lands in the Town of Hay.
Messuages and lands in Llanfaes.
Messuage and lands, called Tyr John Lewis Jenkin, alias CASTELL EINON SAIS,
and other laud formerly in the possession of William Awbrey, lying in the
Hamlet of Peupont, in the parish of Llanspythyd.
Messuage of Bailey Helig.
Lands of Kaiar Maindwy.
Kaie Gleision.
Kae Nicholas.
Cae Mawr.
Cae Dan yr Held.
All lying in the parish of St. David's, as her proper share.
It was, however, agreed by all parties, that the lands and premises in the Town of
Brecon and parish of St. John the Evangelist, should remain undisturbed.
1708, 12 and 13 Oct.
By Indentures of Lease and Release between
Elizabeth Walker, widow of the said Thomas Walker, Catherine Games, spinster,
(two of the daughters of Hoo Games of Newton, and sisters of John Games, his
son and heir, then deceased).
Katherine Walker, sole daughter and heir of the said Thomas Walker and Elizabeth,
and also heir apparent to the said Catherine Games, of the 1st part.
Sir John Awbrey, Bart. John Jones, Gent., of the 2nd part.
Sir Humphrey Mackworth, Bart. Henry Loyd, Sergeant-at-law, of the 3rd part.
Richard Jenkins of Hensol, co. Glamorgan, of the 4th part.
Reciting that a marriage was about to be solemnised between the said Richard Jenkins
and Katherine Walker (afterwards solemnised). It was witnessed, that they the said
Elizabeth Walker, Catherine Games, and Katherine Walker did sett and convey to the
said John Awbrey and John Jones, their heirs and assigns : —
All that capital messuage of Newton and other lands belonging to Elizabeth Walker
by the articles of 1693 (confirmed by a decree of the High Court of Chancery).
Also the M;inor of Pytindu, and other lands in Llanfihangel Nantbrane and Llandilo
Fan, and all the other messuages and lands allotted to Catherine Games by
the said Articles.
(60)
And also all other lands, whether divided or otherwise, in the
Town of Brecon. Defyimock. Llanfihaugel Vechan.
St. John Evangelist. Ystradfellte. Do. Nantbrane.
St. David's. Merthir. Llandilo Fan.
Llanfaes. Llanthew. Hay.
Llanspythid. Llandevealog. Garthbrengy.
To the use of Elizabeth Walker (for her share) for life.
To the use of Catherine (for her share) for life.
And after their decease to the use of Eichard Jenkins and his wife, and to the heirs of
his body by the said Catherine, his intended wife. £2,000 to be raised for younger
children.
To the said Richard Jenkins and Katherine, his intended wife, and to their heirs and
assigns for ever.
At the next Court Baron of the Borough of Brecon, such parts as were copyhold
were surrendered.
Richard Jenkins and Catherine his wife, had no issue, and he, surviving her, became
entitled to the fee and inheritance of all the property belonging to Elizabeth Walker,
Catherine Games, and Katherine his wife.
1720. Jany. 5.
Eichard Jenkins, by will of this date, devised all his lands in the Counties of
Glamorgan and Brecon to
Charles Richard Talbot, his nephew, son of the late Lord Charles Talbot, for life.
Rem'dr. To his first and every other sou.
To his nephew, Wm. Talbot (afterwards Earl Talbot) for life.
To his first and every other sun.
To his nephew, John Talbot, for life.
To his first and every other son.
To his nephew, George Talbot, for life.
To his first and every other son.
To the right heirs of the said Richard Jenkins for ever.
The said Charles Richard Talbot, on the decease of the said Richard Jenkins, entered
into possession of the said premises for his life, and died unmarried.
On his decease, Earl Talbot entered into possession, and dying without issue male, the
Eight Honble. John Chetwynd, Lord Talbot, eldest son and heir apparent of the Honble.
John Talbot, devisee named in the will of the said Richard Jenkins, succeeded to the
estates, and in August, 1782,
By Deeds of Lease and Release executed at the Great Sessions for the Counties of
Glamorgan and Brecon same month, suffered Recovery, and thereby barred all Reversions,
etc., created by the will of the said Richard Jenkins.
Lord Talbot thence had the inheritance in fee.
In March, 1783, Lord Talbot passed a surrender of the Copyhold in the Manor of
Brecon.
His Lordship settled a jointure of £2000 a year on his Lady, on. lands in the Cos. of
Stafford and Glamorgan.
The Breconshire estates were quite free.
ON THE RIVER USK, LOOKING UP THE RIVER TOWARDS PENPONT BRIDGE.
(61)
Castell Einion Sais, or Eynon Seys Lands.
[Maybery Papers.]
[See previous Abstract of Title.]
1804.
Abstract of Indenture made between
Charles Sheppard, of Esqre., only son and heir of Charles Sheppard,
formerly of Painswick, co. Gloucester, and late of Hackuey, co. Middlesex, of the
one part.
Penry Williams of Peupont, in the County of Brecon, Esqre., only son and heir of
Philip Williams, late of the same place, Esqre., deceased, of the other part.
Whereas by Indentures of Lease and Release, dated March 25 and 26, 1783, made
between John Chetwynd, Lord Talbot, of the 1st part, Charles Sheppard, deceased, of the
2nd part, and the said Philip Williams of the 3rd part.
Lord Talbot did convey for consideration by direction of the said Philip Williams, the
messuages hereinafter mentioned to the said Charles Sheppard, in trust for certain uses and
persons as the said Philip Williams should from time to time appoint, and failing appoint-
ment to the use of the said Philip Williams, his heirs and assigns for ever.
This Indenture witnesseth, that in consideration of 10s. paid to Charles Sheppard,
party hereto, by the said Penry Williams, party hereto, He the said Charles Sheppard hath
sold unto the said Penry Williams (by force of the Statute made for transferring uses into
possession) and to his heirs and assigns
All that close of land with the appurtenances lying near Penpont House, formerly in
two parts, commonly called : —
Cae Castell, otherwise Castell Eynou Sais and Ynis Cenol.
Also all that close of land with the appurtenances, called :
Pen y car Rhillin, containing 20 a. 2 r. 10 p. in the whole, formerly in
possession of the said Philip Williams.
Also all those lands and known as :
Tyr Meredith, Tyr John Lewis Jenkin, otherwise Tyr y Garn, otherwise Tyr
Castell Eynon Seys, otherwise Tyr y Wern fawr, containing 170 acres
by estimation, formerly in the possession of Philip Williams, Walter
Williams, John Williams, John Havard.
Also all that messuage and land known as :
Tyr Blaen Rheon, containing 72 a. 3 r. 0 p., formerly in the possession of
John Havard.
All which lands are situate in the Hamlet of Peupont, in the Parish of Llanspythid in
the Co. of Brecon.
Also all that messuage and land called :
Tyr Pentwyn, with plot adjoining, containing 28 a. 1 r. 33 p., in the parish
of Llanspythid, formerly in the occupation of Thos. John.
Also all that messuage and land :
Pant Lleverith Vawr, in the parish of Llandilo Vane, in the Co. of Brecon,
in as large and ample a manner as Penry Williams, father of Philip,
Williams, deceased, held the same with another meadow, called Bolgoed
meadow, formerly sold by the said John Chetwynd, Lord Talbot, to
Llewellin Williams, gent., under a lease granted by William, Earl
Talbot, deceased, or his ancestors.
Together with all Houses, outhouses, etc., etc.
With all rents and profits, and all title therein, to have and to hold unto the said
Penry Williams, his heirs and assigns.
(62)
Finally Charles Sheppard covenants that he has knowingly suffered no waste to
be made.
End of Release of Premises held in Trust.
[These lands included the Castle meadow, the Blaenrheon lauds, and Wernfawr,
immediately adjacent to Penpont Mansion.]
Collection of Tithes in Breconshire in 1817.
[Maybery Papers.]
FORM OF DEMAND NOTE IN LLANSPYTHID PARISH.
You are requested to send to the Revd. John Williams, of the Parish of Llan-
spythid, an Account of what Stock has been grazed on your Land, from Michaelmas, 1816,
to Lady Day, 1817 ; also, what Stock has been sold or Killed, between the 29th Day
of September and the 2oth Day of March ; and what Stock has been on your Land from
the 25th Day of March to the 1st Day of July, 1817.
No. of Cows and when Calved
Calves fatted and what sold for
Calves dropped and reared ) »na when
Do. bought and reared / to jnm.
Cows turned dry, and when sold or
killed .
Yearling Calves
Two year old Cattle
Three year old and upwards
Working Cattle and the time actu-
ally employed in farm work
Colts . . . .
Yearling ditto
Three year old and upwards
Work Horses and the time actually
in farm work
Brood Mares and Colts
Sheep and when sheared .
Lambs and when weaned and
sheared ....
Sheep sold or killed and the time
of being sold or killed
Potatoes and turnips and what
quantity
Sows and Litters .
Hogs on grass or clover
From Sept. 29th, 1816,
to March 25th, 1817.
From 25th March, 1817,
to July, 1817.
I
I I I
m
x
1-5 fa
o
a
G. North, Printer, Brecknock.
(63)
Gwenddwr Charity.
[Maybery Papers.]
Interesting letter from the Eevd. John Williams, Vicar of Glasbury, to Mr. John
Wilkins, Attorney-at.-Law, Brecon, instructing him to proceed against Mr. Johnson
for the recovery of arrears of payments due to him in respect of the above
Charity.
Glasbury, Feb. ye 4th, 1744.
Sir. — At our Parish Meeting held last Saturday, your Proposals were very well
approv'd of.
This Parish is in two Counties, and ye Churchwarden for ye Radnorshire is Roger
Lewis, and William Davies is Overseer of ye Poor, who may both be appointed Kelators.
There has been no Overseer of ye Highway appointed in y't part of ye Parish, w'ch is in
Radnorshire, since ye Death of ye last, but to supply yt Defect Thomas Hughes, Esqr. and
Mr. Henry Williams may be appointed Correlators.
Walter Watkins is Churchwarden for the Brecknocksh're side of the Parish, and
Mr. John Williams of Newcourt of ye Highway from Velindre to Tyle Glas ; Edw'd
Vaughan is Overseer of ye Poor, but he beinar tenant to Gwernyved is not willing his
name sh'd be made use of ; however, to yt deficiency Pryce Devereux, Esqr., Charles
Walter, and Phillip Walter are willing to be correlators.
The greatest part of ye Road from Llwyne bach to Pontithel is in ye Parish of
Aberllynvy, and as all yt Parish belongs to Gwernyved, I thought it w'd be in vain to
desire any of ye Inhabitants thereof to Join in a Lawsuit against Mr. Johnson.
The Vicars of Glasbury Preached upon Palm Sunday in Glasbury Church for all ye
time whereof ye memory of man is not to the contrary. And ye Preacher for Trinity
Sunday at Aberllynvy was always appointed by ye Owners of Gwernyved. Lady Howorth
had a Term of Life upon yt Estate and Aberllynvy too. S'r Humphrey Howorth and
she appointed me to Preach there for many years, particularly in ye years 1734, 35, 36,
37, 38, 39, 40, 41, and towards ye latter end of ye last year she departed this Life.
I likewise Preached upon Palm-Sunday in Glasbury Church in all those years, and
continued to do so, for ye succeeding ones, viz., 1742, 43, 44; for w'ch at 10s. each
sermon, the Tithes of Gwenddwr are in arrears to me in ye sum of £9 10s., For which
you may appoint me Eelator.
I will not part with your Letter to your Prejudice, nor shall Mr. Johnson ever see it.
I wish you good success, and am
Y'r humble Serv't,
(Sd.)
JOHN WILLIAMS.
(64)
Turnpike Road over Trecastle Hill in 1772
(Repairs of).
CONTRACT WITH DAVID LLOYD, ESQ., FOR KEEPING THE SAID EOAD
IN REPAIR.
[Maybery Papers.]
Articles of Agreement covenanted, made, and agreed upon, August 3rd, 1772,
BETWEEN Sir John Meredith, Knight, John Harcourt, Esquire, John Bullock
Lloyd, Esquire, Hugh Jones, Clerk, Herbert Bowen, Esquire, Trustees named for
putting in Execution an Act of Parliament for repairing several roads in the
County of Brecon of the one part, and David Lloyd of the parish of Llywell, in
the said County of Brecon, Esquire, of the other part.
First, the said David Lloyd for the consideration hereinafter mentioned, doth for
himself, his heirs, exors. aud Admors. and for every of them, Covenant, promise, and agree to
and with the said Trustees and their heirs that he the said David Lloyd, his Exors. or
Admors., shall and will from time to time, and at all times hereafter during the term of
fifteen years to be computed from September 2nd next, well and truly keep the Turnpike
Road and every part thereof, from Rhyd y Briw Bridge, on the Turnpike Road to Trecastle,
to the extremity of the said Read on Trecastle Hill, adjoining to the confines of the County
of Carmarthen, and which road has been lately formed and made complete — in perfect
order and repair — insomuch that no wheel-rutts or other place whereby any quantity of
Water can stand shall be permitted to remain on any part of the said road.
And the said David Lloyd doth further covenant, promise, and agree to and with the
said Trustees and the Survivors of them, and the Exors. and Admors. of such Survivors, that
in case any part of the said Road shall chance to become out of compleat repair, the said
David Lloyd or his Executors will immediately put the same in compleat repair by filling
up the same with stones beat small, and gravel the same over. And it is further agreed
between the said parties, that in case the said Trustees or any other of the acting Trustees
shall at any time on inspection see the said Road or any part thereof to be out of repair,
it shall be lawful for the Trustees, or their Clerk or any Surveyor by them appointed, upon
giving ten days notice to the said David Lloyd, to repair the same on his neglecting to
repair it, or not repairing it sufficiently, to employ persons to repair the same. And the
said David Lloyd, his Exors. or Admors., shall aud will immediately after the same is done,
or any Money laid out for that purpose, repay the same. IN CONSIDERATION whereof the
said Trustees do covenant and promise the said David Lloyd shall be paid yearly the sum
of Twenty-one Shillings for every mile of ye sd. Road, on September 2nd yearly, and so in
proportion for a greater or lesser quantity during the said Term of fifteen years.
IN WITNESS whereof the said parties to these presents have hereunto Interchangeably
set their hands and seals, the day, month, and year first above written.
Sealed and Delivered
in the presence of us :
Hugh Bold.
Chas. Wild.
DAVID LLOYD.
JN. HARCOURT.
J. MEREDITH.
J. B. LLOYD.
H. JONES.
HERBT. BOWEN.
THE OLD FURNACE AT BRECKNOCK ON THE HONDDU RIVER.
SAME FURNACE MARKED BY A CROSS SHOWING THE POSITION
NEAR THE RIVER.
(65)
To David Lloyd of Llywell, Esquire.
WHEREAS in and by certain Articles of Agreement bearing date the 3rd da}7 of August,
1772, made between Sir John Meredith, Kt., and other Trustees of the said Turnpikes of
the one part, and you the said David Lloyd of the other part, It is amongst other things
agreed on as follows : "And the said David Lloyd doth further covenant, promise, and agree
to and with the said Trustees and their Heirs, that he the said David Lloyd, his Exors. or
Adrnors., shall and will from time to time, and at all times hereafter during the Term of
fifteen years to be computed from September 2nd next, well and truly keep the Turnpike
Road Leading from Rhydybrew Bridge to the confines of the County of Carmarthen and
every part thereof (and which road has been lately formed and made complete), in perfect
order and Eepair, inasmuch that no Wheel-Rutts or other places whereby any quantity of
Water can stand, or shall be permitted to remain, on any part of the said Road. And
further, that in case any part of the said road shall chance to become out of compleat
Eepair during the said Term, the said David Lloyd, or his Exors. and Admors., shall and
will immediately put the same in compleat Repair by filling up the same with Stones beat
small, and Grayel the same over.
" And it is further agreed between the said parties that, in case the said Trustees or any
other of the Acting Trustees shall at any time, on inspection see the said Road or any part
thereof to be out of repair, it shall be lawful for the Trustees or their Clerk, or any
Surveyor by them appointed, upon giving ten days notice to the said David Lloyd, to
repair the same ; and on his neglecting to repair it, or not repairing it sufficiently, to employ
persons to Repair the same, and the said David Lloyd, his Executors or Administrators,
shall and will immediately after the same is done, or any money laid out for that purpose,
repay the same." AND WHEREAS, contrary to the said Agreement, the said Road is now in a
ruinous condition, You are hereby to take notice that unless you will put the said Road in
good and sufficient Repair, according to your said Contract, within Ten days after notice
hereof, the Trustees acting under the said Act of Parliament will employ proper Persons to
repair the said Road, the Expence whereof you must repay according to your Contract.
Dated the 4th day of December, 1780.
(Sgd.) HUGH BOLD,
Clerk to ye Trustees.
[This was the old road leading over Trecastle mountain to Llandovery from Llywel and
Brecon, before the Cwmydwr road, along the valley of Gwydderig brook, was made.
So steep was the ascent from the Llandovery side to the Heath Cock, that oxen were
regularly harnessed on to pull up the carriages to the summit of the mountain.]
Old Breconshire Iron Works.
Another lost and now forgotten industry of the county is that of our iron works, and
the smelting and manufacturing of iron.
The various works at Llaugrwyney Forge, in the Clydach Valley, and at Beaufort in
Llangattock parish, and those at Hirwain, I do not propose to allude to here at any length ;
but to give only a description of the Brecon Forge and Furnace, near Brecon, on the
Honddu, and the Aberllyufi Forge at Pipton, on the Llyufi brook.
Both works were established about the same date — 1720-1723 — and by the same
persons, and both were placed on these streams respectively, in order to secure water-power
for the maintaining a full blast of air from the bellows.
VOL. II. K
(66)
The Brecon Works were at first, I think, a furnace only for the smelting of iron ore,
brought there on the backs of horses and mules from Hirwain and Dowlais. This was
supplemented by a forge later for the working up of pig iron into bars, and what is known
as merchant iron. And it was soon found advantageous, when pig iron was extensively
made at Hirwain, and by the same firm, to bring over pig iron instead of the iron ore
across the hills on horses' backs. The Brecon Furnace then fell into disuse, the Forge only
being worked ; but being very massively built, as the nature of its use demanded, has
remained fortunately undestroyed and practically unchanged down to the present day.
The date of its foundation is undoubted, 1720 being moulded on the massive cast-iron bars
that support on either front-face the kiln apertures. The casting of these large bars
denotes the existence of a still older furnace elsewhere, possibly at Yniscedwyn, where we
know there was a furnace working about that date. We cannot ask Messrs. Tanner and
Wellington to tell us now where these large bars came from.
In the early days of ironmakiug it was not the rule to use coal for smelting, and still
less so for forging and refining processes ; and apart from the water-power, the sites at
Brecon and Aberllynfi were well chosen so as to be within easy reach of Breconshire woods ;
and it will be seen by the Cordwood Book kept, that supplies of wood reached the works
from the Cwmydwr valley beyond Llywell and the Dinas Woods at Llanwrtyd.
The Aberllynfi Works were never, I think, more than a forge or mill for refining and
forging and making malleable iron.
When the Messrs. Bacon leased the Hirwain Works in 1780, from Messrs. Wilkins
and Maybery, the agreed rent payable was to be 200 tons in pig iron or £133 6s. 8d. in
cash, and the pig iron so obtained at Hirwain no doubt was used at their Brecon and
Aberllynfi forges by Messrs. Wilkins and Maybery ; and there is a letter extant to the
effect that these Brecon ironmasters offered to supply the Admiralty with 100 tons of pig
iron for ballast,
With the use of coal for ironmaking, and the establishment of the large ironworks on
the Hills, these smaller forges fell into disuse, and probably ceased to exist about 1800 ;
though none of my old papers give the exact date of their being closed.
The Mayberys came from Powick Forge in Worcestershire, and were born ironmasters.
The Wilkins family were connected with the law and the Great Sessions Court. Tanner
appears to have been a local Brecon ironmonger ; but I can trace the name of Wellington
only to Hay Castle, which one of them rented and resided in for many years in the
eighteenth century.
The annexed somewhat formal documents give the full particulars of the leases by
which these works were held : —
BRECON FORGE AND FURNACE AND ABERLONVEY FORGE,
COUNTY BRECON, 1755.
THOMAS MAYBERY TO JOHN MAYBERY (INCLUDING ASSIGNMENT OF
LEASES DATED 1723 AND 1722).
[Maybery Papers].
THIS INDENTURE made the 22nd day of May in the 28th year of the Reign of King
George the 2nd by etc., etc., and in the year 1755.
BETWEEN
THOMAS MAYBERY, of Powicks Forge, in the County of Worcester, Iron-
master, of the one part,
AND
JOHN MAYBERY, of Aberlonvey, in the County of Brecon, Ironmaster, Son of
the said Thomas Maybery, of the other part.
(67)
WHEREAS Edward Jeffreys, late of the Inner Temple, London, Esquire, now deceased,
did by his Indenture of Lease, bearing date the 8th day of November, 1723, and made
between the said Edward Jeffreys, Esq., of the one part, and Benjamin Tanner, of the
town of Brecon, Ironmonger, and Eichard Wellington, the Younger, of the Town of the
Hay iu the said County, Gentleman, of the other part, DEMISE, GRANT, SET, and to FARM
LET unto the said Benjamin Tanner and Richard Wellington,
ALL THAT Mansion House and Garden commonly called Tuy Watkin or felin, other-
wise Taferu y Trap, and the Parcel of land thereto belonging or adjoining,
commonly called or known by the name of Cwm y Veliu, in as large and ample a
manner as Catherine Morgan, Widow, then or then lately held the same.
TOGETHER with one Fulling or Tucking Mill to the said House or parcel of land
belonging then or then lately in the occupation of Thomas Watkin, Tucker, all
which said House, Garden, Parcel of land, and Tucking Mill, with their appur-
tenances, are situate lying and being in the several Parishes of St. John
Evangelist and Llanthew in the said County of Brecon, TOGETHEK with all ways,
Waters, Watercourses, Floodgates, Wears, Stanks, Liberties, Priviledges, and
Advantages, whatsoever thereto belonging, with liberty for the said Benjamin
Tanner and Eichard Wellington, their exors., admors., or assigns, during the
Term therein and hereinafter mentioned, to make, Erect, and Build One Iron
Forge and Furnace for making and Eunniug of Iron, and unto that end and
purpose to Dig up and raise Wallstone or other stone and to Dig one or more
Ponds and to make Buildings, Wears, Stanks, Floodgates, aud Sluices, on any
part of the said Premises that shall and will be necessary to carry 011 the said
Works.
To HOLD all and singular the said premises with the Appurtenances unto the said
Benjamin Tanner and Eichard Wellington, their exors., admors., and assns., from the
Feast day of Saint Michael, the Arch Angel, then last past, for the term of 99 years then
next ensuing, at and under the Yearly Rent of £7 at Lady day and Michaelmas, by equal
portions, exclusive of all Taxes, then or thereafter to be rated or assessed upon the said
premises or any part thereof.
AND WHEREAS by one other Indenture of Lease, bearing date tlie seventh day of
March, 1722, and made or mentioned to be made Between Henry Williams of Gweruevatt,
in the County of Brecon, Esqr., of the 1st part, Charles Williams of Trevithell, in the
same County, Esq., of the 2nd part, aud the said Benjamin Tanner, by the name of
Benjamin Tanner, of the Town of Brecon, in the County of Brecon aforesaid, Ironmonger,
and the said Eichard Wellington, of the 3rd part. The said Henry Williams did thereby
demise, Set, and to Farm Let unto the said Benjamin Tanner aud Richard Wellington,
ALL THAT Messuage, Workhouse, or Building called the Forge, then lately erected
upon a Parcel of Ground called Maes y Wern Yssa, situate, lying and being in
the Parish of Aberlonvey, in the said County of Brecon, then or then lately in
the possession of the said Benjamin Tanner and Richard Wellington, or their
assigns ; and also a certain Wear, made across the river Llonvey, the one end
thereof being fixed on the lands of the said Charles Williams, which conveys the
Water of the said River to the said Forge. AND ALSO one certain Water-course
that leadeth from the said Wear through a Field called Ywern Degge, then or
then late in the Possession of Charles Baker, and through another Field thereto
adjoining, then in the possession of John Williams, called by the Name of Maes
y wern Ysha, towards the Pound of the said Forge, with all Wears and Sluices,
and also the benefit and advantage of another small River that Runs through the
Park of the said Henry Williams a Cross the Highway, and from thence through
part of the said Field called maes y wern yssa into the said Pound, when it can
be spared from the Mill called Aberlonvey Mill, with free liberty of Ingress,
Egress, aud Regress to and for the said Benjamin Tanner and Richard
Wellington, their exors., admors., and assigns, and their Servants and Agents, to
Amend and Repair, Scour, Cleanse, and enlarge the said Wears, Water-courses,
(68)
as often and whensoever occasion should Require ; with liberty for the said
Benjamin Tanner and Richard Wellington, their exors., admors., and assigns, to
dig and raise Wallstone and Tyle Stone on the most Convenient Place or places,
on any of the Lands and Tenements of the said Henry Williams, for Repairing
the same Premises, and with free liberty of Ingress, Egress, and Regress for
them, their servants and Agents, Cattle and Carriages, to carry away the same
without the Lett or Disturbance of the said Henry Williams, his heirs or assigns, or
his or their Undertenants, together with all Workhouses, Outhouses, Yards, Gardens,
Stanks, Wears, Sluices, Floodgates, Ways, Waters, Watercourses, Liberties and
Appurtenances to the said Forge belonging, and in as large and ample manner as
the same then were or at any time theretofore were used and enjoyed by the
said Benjamin Tanner and Richard Wellington, or either of them (Liberty of
Fishing with Angleing Rods and Netts in the said Watercourses and Ponds at all
times and seasons to the said Henry Williams, his heirs and Assigns, Excepted
and reserved).
To HAVE AND TO HOLD all and singular the said Demised Premises, with the appur-
tenances (Except before Excepted) unto the said Benjamin Tanner and Richard Wellington,
their exors., admors., and assigns, from the Feast day of St. Michael the Arch Angel then
last past, for the Term of 50 years, at and under the Yearly Rent of £30, payable Half-
yearly (that is to say) upon the 25th day of March and the 29th day of September, by
equal portions without any Deductions whatsoever.
AND WHEREAS by one Indenture of Assignment, bearing date the 26th day of
December, 1750, and made between the said Benjamin Tanner and William Tanner, of
Brecon aforesaid, Gentleman, Eldest Son and Heir of the said Benjamin Tanner, and the
said Richard Wellington of the one part, and Thomas Daniel and Richard Reynolds, both
of the City of Bristol, Merchants and Dealers in Iron, of the other part, After reciting to
the effect hereinbefore recited, and that since the granting of the first lease therein and
herein in part recited, a Furnace for Running of Iron had by virtue thereof been erected
and Built on part of the premises thereby Granted by the said Benjamin Tanner and
Richard Wellington, or one of them ; and that the said Premises, together with the several
Indentures of Lease and Terms therein respectively mentioned, were then vested in the
said William Tanner, who did for the Consideration therein mentioned, by and with the
consent and approbation of the said Benjamin Tanner and Richard Wellington, testified as
therein expressed, Give, Grant, Bargain, t?ell, Assign, Transfer, and Set over, and the said
Benjamin Tanner and Richard Wellington did Ratify and confirm unto the said Thomas
Daniel and Richard Reynolds The said in part recited Indentures of Lease and the premises
thereby demised,
TOGETHER with the said then new Erected Furnace and all the Buildings thereto
belonging, and the Terms therein then to come and unexpired, and all their
Right, Title, and interest in and to the same.
To HOLD the same to the said Thomas Daniel and Richard Reynolds, their exors.,
admors., and assigns, for and during all the Rest, Residue, and Remainder of the s:iid
several Terms of years thereby severally granted and then to come, uuexpired, subject unto
the Rents and conditions therein expressed.
AND WHEREAS the said Thos. Daniel and Richard Reynolds did by an Indre. of Assign-
ment, bearing date the 30th day of March, 1753, in consideration of £400 to them in hand
paid by the said Thos. Maybery, Grant, Bargain, Sell, Assign, Transfer and Set over unto
the said Thos. Maybery
ALL and singular the said Messuages, Houses, Mills, Furnace, Workhouse, Buildings,
Parcels of Land, Wears, Watercourses, Liberties, and other the premises above
mentioned and Recited, and by the said several in part recited Indentures Granted
unto the said Benj. Tanner and Richd. Wellington ;
AND ALL THE ESTATE, Right, Title, and Interest, Terms of years then to come, etc., of
them the said Thomas Daniel and Richard Reynolds,
(69)
To HOLD to the said Thos. Maybery, his exors., ads. and assigns, for and during the
remainder of the said sevl. recited Terras of 99 years, and 50 years then to come and
uncxpired, in as large and ample manner to all intents and purposes, as they the said Thos.
Daniel and Richard Reynolds, their exors., or admors., might, could, or ought to have held
or enjoyed the same by virtue of the said in part recited Indentures of Assignment, subject
nevertheless to the payment of the Rent and performance of the Covenants as therein
mentioned, as in and by the said several in part recited Indentures, relation being there-
unto had more fully and at large it doth and may appear.
AND WHEREAS the said Thomas Maybery hath agreed to assign over all and singular
the said Premises to the said John Maybery, his Son,
Now THIS INDENTURE WITNESSETH that the said Thos. Maybery, as well for and in
consideration of the natural love and affection which he hath and beareth for or towards
the said John Maybery, as also of 10s. of lawful money paid, etc., the receipt, etc., and for
other good Causes and cons'ons., Hath Granted, bargained, Sold, Assigned, Transferred, and
set over, and by these Presents did grant, Bargain, Sell, Assign, Transfer, and set over
unto the said Thos. Maybery,
ALL AND SINGULAR the said Messuages, Houses, Mill, Furnaces, Forge, Workhouse,
Buildings, Garden, parcels of Land, Wears, Watercourses, Liberties, Priviledges
and Advantages, and Premises above mentioned and recited ; and by the said
several in part recited Indentures of Lease Demised and Granted to the said
Benjamin Tanner and Bichd. Wellington, and by the said last in part recited
Indenture, Assigned, Transferred, and set over to the said Thomas Maybery, his
exors., admors., and assigns as aforesaid, and every part and parcel thereof, with
their and every of their appurtenances, AND ALL the Estate, Right, Title, etc., of
him the said Thomas Maybery,
TOGETHER with the said in part recited Indres. of Lease and Assignments, and all
other Deeds or Writings relating thereto,
To HAVE AND TO HOLD all and sing'r the said Messuages, Houses, Mill, Furnaces,
Workhouse, Buildings, Garden, Parcels of Land, Wear, Watercourses, Liberties, Priviledges,
Advantages and Premises in the said several in part recited Indentures of Lease and
Assignment, Demised, granted and transferred, or intended to be hereby granted, Trans-
ferred, assigned, or Set over, with their and every of their appurtenances, unto the said John
Maybery, his exors., admors., and assns., for and during all the Rest, Residue, and remainder
of the said several Recited Terms of 99 years and 50 years, in and by the said several in
part recited Indentures of Lease Respectively granted, as are yet to come and uncxpired, in
as large and ample a manner as the said Thos. Maybery, his exs., might or could do if these
Presents were not made Subject to the payment and performance of the several Yearly
Rents, Covenants, Conditions, and agreements reserved and contained, which as well in the
said several in part recited Indentures of Lease on the Lessees' part, and behalf of their
exors., admors., and assns., as in the said last in part recited Indenture of Assignment on
the part and behalf of the said Thos. Maybery, his exors., ads., and assigns is, are, or ought
to be paid, done, and performed.
COVENANTS by said Thomas Maybery with said John Maybery : That he had good
right to assign, free from all incumbs., and for quiet enjoyment by John Maybery
on payt. of rent.
COVENANT by sd. John Maybery with sd. Thos. Maybery : To pay rents and keep
indemnified in regard to performance of Covenants.
THOMAS (L. S.) MAYBEHY.
Sealed and Delivered (being first duly Stamp'd)
in the presence of
(S'd) John Nixon.
(S'd) Benj. Taylor.
(70)
ACCOUNT OF CORDWOOD BOUGHT FOR FURNACE.
1753.
Short Cords. Recorded.
Price.
Miles to
Furnace.
Miles to
Forge.
s.
d.
Coal'd 152J
Hugh Pendry, Esqr., at Lanvihangell
2
9
5
Do. 78J
Wm. Gwin Vaughan, Esqr., at Lanva-
2
0
10
10
then ....
Do. 595J
Do. at Abberdohono .
2
0
10
9
Do. 11 37 -J
Do. at Skiog
2
0
10
8
Do. 28
David John's Unisgoverrah, Cutt.
3
6
4
4
Do. 25
Thos. Protherro Do. on ye Stoole
2
9
4
4
Do. 64
Jno. Powells, Bailleyholog .
2
0
7
5
Do. 72
Mr. Goolds, Landavathley- .
2
6
5
4
Do. 29 1|
Thos. James, Esq.. Crickaden
3
0
7
4
Do. 21 1 ! Thos. James, Crickaden
3
0
7
4
Do. 30j
Wm. Williams, Landavathley, Cutt, .
4
0
5
3
Do. 1921
Mr. Griffiths, Cutt and Corded
2
9|
8
Do. 15
Phill. Brooks, Bruntless, Cutt at
4
o"
5
!J
Do. 1476
Caple Hanbury, Esqr., Crickaden, Cutt
and Corded
5
4J
7
4
Do. 53
Whalter Morgans at Vale, at
2
9"
3
Do. 69|
Whalter Morgan and Thos. Prothero,
4
wood at Warnvawr, at
2
9
Do. 45}
Thos. Jones, wood at Tinwain
2
9
4
Do. 155
David Johns, Unnisgoverrah
2
9
4
Do. 56|
Jno. Howell, at Pentuin, Cutt at
4
3
3
Do. 66f
Juo. Williams wood at Penclyn at
3
0
3
35f
Charles Powel, Esqr., Delivered but-i
not Coal'd . . .1
2
6
10
12
145
Do. not delivered . J
161
Mr. Lloyds, of Dinnas, Do.
24
Mr. Samuel Evans at Langam'h
2
G
10
12
1281
Mr. Davis, of Gwender's, near Do.
136f
Mr. Price, of Maseyromi, near Do.
14l|
David Rees Protherah, near Do.
169f
Thos. Davis, of Langam'h
2
6
61
Charles Powel, Esqr., near Castle-
29
madock
3
0
69
Mr. Watkins at Battle
Mr. Jones at Lanvase
Mr. Jeffrys
Mr. Wilkins
(71)
ACCOUNT OF CORDWOOD BOUGHT.
CORDWOOD BOUGHT FOB, FURNACE.
1754.
Short Cords.
Supposed.
on ye stoole.
Pri
ce.
Miles to
Furnace.
Miles to
Forge.
s.
d.
Coal'd 60
Whalter Morgan on ye stoole
2
9
3
Do. 18
Robert Probert, Landavathley, ready
Cutt
3
9
5
3
Do. 100
Thos. Price and Wm. Williams,
Gwenther
2
0
7
5
Do. 100
Whalter Morgan and Thos. Prothero .
2
9
3i
Do. 50
Thos. Jones, wood at Tinwain
2
9
4
Do. 120
David John, Unisgoverrah .
2
9
4
Do. 100
Jno. Williams, wood at Penclyn, in ye
parish of Llanspythid
3
0
3
Do. 4000
M'r Wilkins, wood at Commoredore .
2
3
9
Do. 400
Do., at Mertha
•2
6
5
8
Do. 1500
Do., at Trail wng
3
0
4
9
Do. 1000
Do., at Veuey wood
3
6
2
8
Do. 600
Do., at Llandyfaelog
3
6
2
7
Do. 200
Thos. Lloyd, wood at TraLlwug
2
9
5
10
Do. 300
David Davies, wood at Gwenther ' .
2
6
7
5
Do. 40
Jno. Howell, at Pentuin. Cutt
4
3
2|
8
1756.
Coal'd 200
Rees Havard, wood at Seney
2
6
7
Do. 1200
Bevd. Jno. Williams, at Reneglws
3
0
4
4
Do. 2000
Messrs. Powel and Eumsey wood, at
Vungless
3
6
3
5
Do. 100
M'r Havard, wood near Vungless
3
5
Do. 20
Harry Hurgas, wood at Laneglws
3
0
5
4
Do. 40
Walter Williams, do.
2
9
5
4
" Furnace" means the Brecon Furnace ; " Forge," the Aberllynfi Forge ; " Coals" is
the term used for Charcoal. "D" denotes "dozens of sacks"; "S," "sacks."
(72)
ACCOUNT OF WHAT EACH LOADE OF COALS (CHAECOAL) LIES
IN (THAT IS, COSTS).
1754. Jan.
35 cords of David John's of Unisgowerach, cutt at 33s. 6d.
And 25 Thos. Prothero's Do. on the Stoole at 2s. 9<£.
Cutting Thos. Prothero's at 2s.
Cording of both and Hurdles
D. s.
Coaling 16 — 1 of Coals at 3s. Gd.
Carredge of Do. at 5s.
Each Loade Lies in .
cordes of Wood from Cotiodae (?) at 2s.
Cutting do. at 2s. id.
Cording and Hurdles
D. s.
Coaling 39—2 of Coals at 3s. 6d
Carredge of Do. at 7s.
Each Loade lies in .
64 cords of woods from Gwenther 2s.
Cutting Do. at Is. 4d.
Cording and Hurdles
D. s.
Coaleiug 18—1 of Coals at 3s. 6d.
Carredge of 11 — 7 to furnace at 7s.
Do. 6 — 6 to forge at Do.
Each Loade Lies in .
72 Cords of Wood at Llandavathly at 2s. 6d.
Cutting Do. at 2s. Id.
Cording and Hurdles
D. s.
Coaleing 17—5 at 3s. 6d
Carredge of 14 — 0 to furnace at 6s.
Do. of 3 — 5 to forge at 5s.
£ s. d.
626
389
2 10 0
1 5 Of
2 16 3J
405
20 3 0}
1 5 1
20 18 8
17 15 3
2 7 1
6 17
13 14
61 12 3J,
1 11 6
680
454
1 2 10
3 3 3|
4 1 1
264
21 (5 10J
137
900
7 10 0
1 3 0
370
440
17 1
25 15 1
Each Loade lies in ,
1 9
(73)
Mr. Wilkins wood at 3s.
Thos. Floyd's wood at 2s.
1756.
477f Cords of Wood at Trathlwug.
Cutting 430£ Cords at 2s.
Do. 464 Do. at Is. 3d.
Cording 47 7 J cords at 5s. per score
Hurdles
D. s.
Coaling 111—4 at 3s. Qd.
Carredge of 111 — 4 of Coales at 5*.
Each Loade Lies in .
110| Cords of Wood at Trathlwng.
Cutting 60| Cords at I2d.
Do. 50| Cords at ISd.
Cording Do. at 5s.
Hurdles
D. S.
Coaleing 33 —3 of Coales at 3s. Qd.
Caredge of Do. to furnace at 6s.
Each Loade lies in .
1756. Octbr. 10th.
313f of Wood at Mertha. Mr. Wilkins Wood at 2s. Qd.
Cutting 250 Cords at 2s.
Do. 63| at 15d.
Cording of Do. at 5s. .
D. s.
Coaling 77 — 5 of Coals at 3s. 9d. .
Carredge to furnace of Do. at 7s.
Hurdles— 4 Doz. at 3s. Qd.
Each Loade lies in .
£ s. d.
71 13 9
43 01 06
2 09 03
5 19 05
15 0
19 09 08
27 16 08
171 05 03
1 10 8
15 03 10
3 00 03
3 15 04$
1 07 07
07 00
6 05 04
9 19 06
39 19 00
1 04 0
39 04 04
25 00
3 19 08
3 18 05
14 10 04
27 01 11
14 0
114 08 08
1 9 6|
The Prebend of Trallong
(FOUNDED IN THE COLLEGIATE CHURCH OF BRECON).
ADMISSION OF REVD. JOHN WILLIAMS, CLERK, AS PREBENDARY, 1804.
MEMORANDUM. — That on Sunday, the Tenth Day of June, in the year of our Lord
One Thousand eight Hundred and four, John Williams, Clerk, Prebendary of Trallong, in
the Collegiate Church of Brecon, within the Diocese of St. David's, and in the County of
Brecon, did read in the Collegiate Church aforesaid, publickly and solemnly, the Morning
and Evening Prayer, according to the Form prescribed in and by the Book intituled, " The
VOL. II. L
(74)
Book of Common Prayer, and Administration of the Sacraments, and other Rites and
Ceremonies of the Church, according to the Usage of the Church of England, together with
the Psalter or Psalms of David, pointed as they are to be said or sung in Churches ; and
the Form and Manner of making, ordaining, and consecrating of Bishops, Priests, and
Deacons." And immediately after reading the same, the said John Williams did openly
and publickly, before the Congregation there assembled, declare his unfeigned assent and
consent to all Things therein contained and prescribed, in these words following, viz. :
" I, John Williams, do hereby declare my unfeigned assent and consent to all and every
Thing contained and prescribed in and by the Book intituled (The Book of Common
Prayer, etc., just as already above given)." Also that he did publicly and openly, on the
Day and year aforesaid in the Time of Divine Service, read a Certificate under the Hand
of William Higgs Barker, Clerk, M.A., Commissary, lawfully appointed, and the Seal of
the Right Reverend Father in God, Thomas, Lord Bishop of St. David's, in the following
words, viz. : " To all Christian People to whom these Presents shall come, William Higgs
Barker, Clerk, M.A., Greeting. KNOW YE, that John Williams, Clerk, being to be admitted
and instituted to the Prebend of Trallong, founded in the Collegiate Church of Brecon, did
on the Day of the Date hereof personally appear before me, Commissary for that purpose,
appointed by the Right Reverend Father in God, Thomas, by divine Permission Lord
Bishop of St. David's, and before the Admission and Institution thereto, did make and
subscribe the Declaration above written. Given under my Hand, and the Seal of the said
Lord Bishop, this Fourth Day of May, in the Year of our Lord One Thousand eight
Hundred and four. (William Higgs Barker, Commissary)." And immediately after reading
thereof, did in the same place, the Congregation then present, read this Declaration
following, viz. : " I do declare that I will conform to the Liturgy of the Church of England,
as it is now by Law established." And these things we promise to Testify on our
corporal Oaths, if at any Time we should be duly called thereto. In Witness whereof we
have hereunto set our Hands the Day and Year first written.
Witness our hands :
THEO. JONES, N.P., Chapter Clerk.
JOHN JONES, Clerk.
The Eevd. John Williams above was better known as " The Canon," and was a man of
large property, residing at Abercamlais, and also possessed of the Llwyncyntefn estate.
He also became the Incumbent of Bettws Penpont ; but as to the right of presentation
to this living, along dispute raged between the two houses — both very near each other, and
both very powerful — of Abercamlais and Penpont. The mansion of Penpont was situate
in that hamlet, but the large gardens, on the other and sunny side of the river, were in
Trallong parish. When neighbours fall out, and especially the Squire, and the Squire
Parson, all sorts of trouble occur, and the setting out of the tithes daily of those gardens
was a constant worry. Both were sticklers for their rights, and each firmly believed in
the view he took of them. The tenth basket of strawberries and tenth cabbage, and in
fact the tenth of everything, was duly set out at an appointed place, but these had to be
fetched by the Canon or his servants. There was no delivery to be ! And I believe, after
a short experience, the Canon ceased to collect these small tithes. In a few years, the
right of presentation to the chapel of Bettws Penpont, which had been in a state of doubt
since the Reformation, was decided ; and with that decision the dispute ended, and peace
and friendship and close intimacy between the families was resumed, and has continued to
the present day.
And how thankful we may be that by the Commutation Act of 1835, payment in
kind was changed into money, even though that change told in favour of the Church, and
adversely to the tithepayer.
(75)
The Setting out of Tithe.
The Tithes of Hay parish were in the lay hands, by purchase, of Thywnne Howe
Gwynne, Esq. (formerly the younger, of Buckland) ; and it would seem by the annexed
letter that there was, as late as 1831, considerable friction between the titheowner and
Mr. Trouncer of the Sheepbouse, and that the Tithe of Milk, Apples, and Turnips had to be
set out when due.
Sheephouse, October 7th, 1831.
GENTLEMEN, — I hereby give you notice that I shall put out the Tithe of Milk on
Sunday next, the 9th of October, and shall continue to put out the same from time to time
as the same shall become due ; also shall put out the Tithe of Apples and Turnips on
Monday next, and remain,
Gents.,
Your Huml. Ser.,
THOS. TROUNCER.
To Messi-s. Jones and Powell,
Agents to T. H. Gwynne, Esq.
I3RECONSHIRE MEN IN INDIA.
A pretty little story comes down to me through old papers, and thus :
In 1793, Mrs. Margaret Williams, widow, lived at Penishanvayn, in the parish of
Llauddew, and her son, Howel Williams, gentleman, died possessed of considerable
personal property at Tumlooth, in the Province of Bengal, in the East Indies. He died a
bachelor and intestate. It so happened that Mr. Edward Jones, his first cousin, lived at
Fort St. Thome, in the Province of Madaras (sic), also in the East Indies ; and he proceeded
to obtain, and did obtain, from the proper court letters of administration to the effects for
the benefit of the mother of the deceased. The question then arose, How best could the
sum realised reach the mother's hand 1 Fortunately, my grandfather, John Lloyd, of
Brecon, Commander of the Manship East Indiaman, was known to call on his voyages
from London to India at one of the neighbouring ports, and to him was entrusted the
duty of conveying the sum realised — £1,644 15s. — -home to England. This he did, and
Mrs. Margaret Williams's receipt for the payment of that sum in her own hand, at Brecon,
is now on the table before me, dated October 26th, 1793.
May Welshmen ever be found as useful aud faithful to each other, in whatever lands
and circumstances they may be placed !
PROSECUTION FOR WITCHCRAFT IN 1789 AT THE BRECONSHIRE
QUARTER SESSIONS.
Thomas Daniel, of Ystradfellte, having noticed that the milk of his father's cows was
in the course of last summer of a very extraordinary appearance, he believed it to be
affected by witchcraft. Accordingly he went, by his father's orders, to the defendant,
Daniel Jones, at Llanafau Fawr, who immediately said it was the effect of witchcraft, and
that he would prevent it.
(76)
The next morning the defendant looked into a book, and then told witness to take
some hair of the cow's tail, etc., and to boil the same with salt, and while this was
doing, to permit no person to remain in the house but himself. Then he was to bury
it by a stile near a particular woman's house ; and defendant gave witness a paper to put
over the door of the dairy. For this, witness gave defendant 5s.
Witness then went to him again, and he promised he would be sure to put the
milk right, and that he should see who did the mischief to it. Then he again looked into
his book, and described the person of a woman, who, he said, was the witch. Defendant
again directed the witness to use the same charm as before, and with the addition of two
horse-shoes, having three nails in each of them. Witness then paid defendant 2s. Qd.
This having failed in success, defendant said he must be on the spot before he could effect
the cure ; and fixed a time to be at his father's house, desiring witness to inform the
neighbours of his coming, and that he could tell fortunes and recover lost and stolen goods.
Defendant afterwards came to his father's house, and remained there four days ;
during which he pretended, by various means — having generally a book before him — to
find out the witch. He said there was a conjuring book of his at Glynllech, which he
would give five guineas to have restored to him.
The result of the trial is not given in the old paper, but the jurors presented a
True Bill.
THE 1795 FLOODS.
All have heard of the great flood of February 10th and llth, 1795, which devastated
the valleys of Wye and Usk.
On the Wye the new stone bridge built by Edwards, of Poutypridd, at Glasbury, was
washed away ; and on the Usk, at Llangrwyney, the new tram or railroad bridge, built over
the Usk for the Canal Company, was destroyed.
A letter from Mr. John Knowles, of Llanelly ((/lydach), dated October 17th, 1795,
alludes thus to another great flood in the Clydach, in the autumn of the same year :
" For these two days last past we have had a most extraordinary flood in Clydach, far
surpassing in magnitude the flood in February last ; or indeed I believe, from the accounts
I have been able to collect, any ever remembered by the oldest man in the parish ;" and
then he proceeds to describe the damage done to the new railroad down the valley,
parts of it being nearly washed away in two places,
1795 will always be a well-remembered year for great flooda in the Clydach valley,
as in those of the Usk and Wye.
THE GORWYDD MEETING-HOUSE, LLA.NGAMMARCH.
In 1799 the considerable estate of the late Miss Catherine Powell (of Castle
Madoc), near Llangammarch, and Cefn Gorwydd, was sold by auction under the terms of
her will.
The farms were Troedyrhiw Llwydiart, Llwyn y Hebog, Panteity, Perth y Gleision
ucha and isha, Twr y Llwyn, Cefn brith, and Cefn brith mill.
The sale included " the Gorwydd Meeting-House and stable, now in the holding of the
Rev. Daniel Rowland and others, under a lease of 199 (one hundred and ninety-nine)
years, commencing at Michaelmas, 1781, at the rent of 5s. (five shillings)."
The property realised £4,600, Mr. Penry Price, of Rhayader, being the purchaser of
the whole, except Troedyrhiw Llydiart, which Mr. Hugh Jones, of Abergavenny. purchased
for £600. Probably these gentlemen were only the agents for principals, but which the
original agreements, now before me, do not reveal.
I think our Church people in Breconshire should remember, that while they have been
from the first endowed (on a Roman Catholic foundation) from the Reformation with their
(77)
own freehold buildings, the Nonconformists have had to secure with great difficulty, here
and there, sites to build on at their own expense, and often as in the above cases on a
leasehold tenure only.
The struggle made for years by the Nonconformists to maintain the free exercise of
their religious services must be regarded by any one who attempts to read the past as
simply marvellous ; and Church people should be proud to see the strong and enduring
religious feeling that their countrymen have shown.
Miss Catherine Powell, of Castle Madoc, who granted this very long lease of a meeting-
house and stable to the Nonconformists on her Llangammarch estate, is entitled to our
grateful memory.
SEIZURE OF FISHING NETS.
Coedcymmer, May 20th, 1820.
SIR, — I take the earliest opportunity to inform you that I have secured 2 long nets,
2 long poles nearly 18 feet, and one basket, under very heavy threats and peril. I will
bring them to Brecon as soon as possible. — I am, sir, your very humble servant,
THOMAS LEWIS.
To John Powell, Esq.
GAME AND FISH.
This seizure of nets on the Taff, at Cefn Coed Cymmer, apparently alarmed the
Breconshire gentlemen, and a very few days after, on May 24th, 1820, at a meeting held
at the Grand Jury Room of the Shirehall, Penry Williams, Esq. of Penpout in the chair,
an association was formed for the Protection of Game and Fish within this and the adjacent
counties. There were present Peury Williams, John Williams, Hugh Bold, Thomas Bold,
Lancelot Morgan, Henry Lucas, W. Williams, J. C. Meredith, T. Bridgewater, John
Powell, Samuel Church, John Maund. Mr. Church was appointed solicitor, Messrs.
Wilkius, treasurers, and Walter Churchey, secretary.
A further meeting was held on August 7, in the same year, at the Shirehall at noon,
and on the same day at 4 o'clock the members dined together at the Swan Inn.
WEIGHTS AND MEASURES.
At the Petty Sessions held for the Borough of Brecon on October 21, 1822, 54 persons
were proceeded against for having defective weights in their possession, contrary to the
Statutes 35 Geo. HI, and 37 Geo. Ill, c. 143. The defective weights varied from 56 Ibs.
to | oz., and convictions took place in every instance, with 5s. penalty and costs. Curriers,
blacksmiths, chandlers, druggists, and bakers, were among the offenders. The weights of
the Corporation, eleven in number, comprising five 56 Ibs., two 28 Ibs., two 14 Ibs., and
two 7 Ibs., were condemned, and ordered to be destroyed, and a penalty of 10s. and costs
imposed.
"LOVE LAUGHS AT LOCKSMITHS."
An amusing story is told in the brief in a right-of-way case, tried at the Breconshire
Assizes in 1835. There are two farms in the valley of Glyncollwm called Yuys-y-postdy
and Cwmgelynen, nearly adjacent to each other. A widow lived at Ynys-y-postdy, and
between her daughter and the servant-man of Cwmgelynen a love affair occurred ; of
(78)
course a highly improper thing, the mother considered, having regard to the difference in
their social positions. Remonstrances were again and again made, but all to no purpose.
It, however, came to the knowledge of the mother that the lovers were wont to meet each
other along an old track, or roadway, between the farms, which she believed to be a right-
of-way only in name. So the gate in the hedge was straightway pulled up, and the fence
made strong and good, so that no one could easily pass that way.
Love laughs at bars and locks, it is said, and what was a fence or a hedge to stop the
way ! One fine morning the obstruction was found pulled down ; but there was a sequel in
the proceedings before the magistrates, who dismissed the case, and subsequently in a big
trial at the Breconshire Assizes.
Truth bids me say that the swain, frightened at the turmoil created, had given up the
young lady long before the trial came off, in the hope of staying proceedings, but all to no
purpose : the emissaries of the law were in possession of the field, and the forces of property
had to be satisfied only with a legal decision on the merits of the case.
And the lovers' way proved not to be a legal way, and the aggrieved mother had her
way, and Is. damages !
[Referring to " My Wedding Trip to London, and what it cost, 1815" (page 19 ante), I
am informed that at that date it was the custom for the senior bridesmaid to accompany
the bride on the honeymoon. This accounts for the presence of Miss Morrice at Worcester
on the day following the wedding, and the presents of gloves and cake to her by the
bridegroom, all duly entered in the list of his expenses.]
PRISONERS IN THE COUNTY GAOL, 1843.
On February 8, 1843, according to the return of the Governor, Mr. John Lazenby, the
following large list of prisoners were confined in the County gaol : —
Males for trial . . . . .10
Females for trial . . . . .1
Males under sentence . . . . .36
Females under sentence . . . . .1
Debtors 10
58
At that time, and up to 1878, when the gaols were taken over by the State, the entire
cost fell on the County rates, including the charge of repairing and altering the prison : the
latter a very beavy sum, when the prison was in the main rebuilt in 1870.
Happily, since 1843 crime has greatly decreased in the county; and if a little more
money is spent on education generally, including a library, than was in those days, the
county and the country has made a saving under the head of the cost of prevention of
crime, and which must be considered a good set-off.
EDUCATION IN BRECONSHIRE.
When I was young, there were very few elementary schools, and those only in
connection with endowed charities. Neither the Church nor the Nonconformists had
moved in the matter, or if at all, very feebly. It is pointed to as one of the scandals of
the eighteenth century, how Christ College at Brecon had gone to rack and ruin, and how
its revenues had been appropriated by former Bishops of St. David's and the College
Prebends, instead of being used for educational purposes. Even up to 1860, small schools
(79)
only were carried on in Llanwrtyd and Llangammarch, supported by a small fund from
Margaret Jones' charity.
The great awakening came with the exposure of the state of affairs at Christ's College,
and in 1847 a Welsh Education Society began to exert itself to provide elementary schools
generally, but at first only in the larger towns. I find that on August 24th, 1847, John
Parry de Winton, Esq., took the chair at the Shire Hall, with the view of establishing a
school for 150 girls and 150 infants in the Borough of Brecon. The schools were to be on
the site given by Mr. John Powell, of Watton Mount, at the Postern, and subscriptions
were then promised towards the cost of building, the Chairman, Mr. John Powell,
Mr. Henry Maybery, Mr. Joseph Bailey, M.P., giving £50 each, and Mr. John Jones,
Glanhonddu, £25 ; Mr. Penry Williams, of Penpont, £20 ; and Rev. Charles Griffith, £10.
The movement spread then, I think, to Talgarth ; and dating from that time and chiefly
from 1860 downwards to 1870, the main of the Parish Schools, National and British, were
built. Of course, in 1870 the Board Schools came into existence. Except the Charity
Endowed Schools, there is really no antiquity about any of the elementary schools in our
county, and neither religious party can claim to have specially supported and favoured
elementary education in our county in the past. This is in one respect fortunate, as it
should be the easier in consequence to arrange a system of working together with the sole
object of ensuring the best educational facilities for all, and at the least cost to the ratepayers.
I have seen a suggestion that all the County Elementary schools should be placed under the
County Council, and it seems to me that this is the wise course to take, and that religious
differences should be forgotten and cast aside in striving for the common good for all.
THE CRIMEAN WINTEK (IN BEECONSHIRE).
In an amusing letter, dated January 5th, 1854, a Breconshire lady writes as
follows : —
" Here we are fairly snowed up, the only persons enjoying themselves are the
Scotchmen, who are skipping briskly about, their legs swathed in hay-bands, and feeling
quite at home. They have concocted a snow-plough, which has cleared our drives, and
enabled us to walk out, but in some places the snow has drifted to the depth of four and
five feet on the roads. I asked Sandy if this was not quite a Scottish winter. ' Ah, no,
not half; we should think nothing of this ! ' My poor peacock has died from the cold.
Wishing you the enjoyment of this brilliant Christmas, etc."
I remember well that year, the frost lasted from about New Year's day to February 24th,
and all through the latter mouth there was a rough, strong, bitterly cold wind blowing.
The pools were frozen into great ridges, similar to those described in pictures of Behring's
Straits in winter. I recollect Dafauden pool especially with miniature mountains of ice.
When the above letter was written, the frost had only just begun. In February, I expect
Sandy thought after all it was something like Scotland. And what sad tales came across
the sea of the suffering of our troops in the Crimea ! I never thought to live to see worse
disasters than those ; but I have. The South African were greater, and we cannot lay the
blame to the forces of Nature, and any unprecedently severe weather.
(80)
The Burrough Manner of English Hay.
[ENDORSED]
'MB. VAUGHAN OF TREBAERIED'S RECOVERY."
AT GREAT SESSIONS, BRECON, AUG. 7, 1753.
BEFORE RICHARD CARTER, }JuBti(m
JOHN HERVEY,
WILKINS, Clerk.
THOMAS MORGAN, Demandant, and
EOGER JONES, Defendant.
George the Second, by the Grace of God, of Great Brittain, ffrance and Ireland, King
Defender of the ffaith and so forth ; To all to whom these our present Letters shall Come
Greeting, know ye that among the Pleas of Land Enrolled at Brecon, in the County of
Brecon, the Seventh Day of August, in the Twenty Sixth year of our Reign, Before
Richard Carter and John Hervey, Esquires, our Justices of our Great Sessions of the
said County,
It is thus Contained Brecon (to wit), THOMAS MORGAN, Esquire, by a Writt of our
Sovereign Lord the King, of Quod ei Deforceat, by protesting to prosecute That Writt in
the Nature and form of the Writt of our Sovereign Lord the King, of Entry sur Disseizin
En le Post at Common Law according to the fform of the Statute of Ruthland Demandeth,
against ROGER JONES, Gentleman, The Burrough of English Hay with the Appurtenances,
The Manner of English Hay with the Appurtenances, Thirty Messuages, ffifteen Cottages,
Twelve Shops, Three Water Corn Grist Mills, ffifty Gardens, Ten Orchards, flour Hundred
Acres of Land, Two hundred Acres of Meadow, ffive hundred Acres of Pasture, One
Hundred Acres of Wood and One Thousand Acres of ffurze and Heath, ffree ffishery in the
River of Wye, Three ffairs yearly, and Two Marketts Weekly with the Appurtenances in
the Town and Parish of the Hay in the said County, which he Claims to be his Right and
Inheritance, and into which the said Roger Jones hath not any Entry, but after a Disseizin
which HUGH HUNT thereon unjustly and without any Judgment made to the said Thomas
Morgan within thirty years, etc. And Thereupon He declares that he was seized of the
said Burrough, Manner, Tenements, Mills, fBshery, flairs and Marketts, with the Appurte-
nances in his Demeasne as of flee and Right in Time of Peace in the Time of our Lord the
King that now is, by taking the profitts thereof to the value, etc., and wherein, etc., and
thearof he bringeth Suit, etc.
And the said ROGER JONES Cometh personally here into Court and defendeth the Right
when, etc. And thereupon he voucheth to Warranty William Gwyn Vaughan, Esquire,
who by Thomas Phillips, Esquire, and John Harper, Innholder, his Attornies, freely
warranteth the said Burrough, Manner, Tenements, Mills, fBshery, ffairs, and Marketts,
with the Appurtenances, etc.
And Thereupon the said THOMAS MORGAN demandeth against the said WILLIAM GWYN
VAUGHAN, Tenant, by his own Warranty, the said Burrough, Manner, Tenements, Mills,
ffishery, flairs, and Markets, with the Appurtenances in manner aforesaid, etc. And there-
upon He declares that he was Seized of the said Burrough, Mannor, Tenements, Mills,
ffishery flairs and Marketts, with the Appurtenances in his Demeasne as of flee and Right
in Time of Peace in the Time of our Lord the King that now is, by taking the Profitts
(81)
thereof to the value, etc., and wherein, etc., and thereof he bringeth Suit, etc. And the
said William Gwyn Vaughan by his said Attoruies Cometh and defeudeth his Bight when,
etc. And thereupon he Vouchath to Warranty William Vaughan, Gentleman, who by
Thomas Williams and Richard \Villiams, Gentlemen, his Attornies, freely warranteth the
the said Burrough, Mannor, Tenements, Mills, ftishery, flairs and Marketts, with the
appurtenances, etc.
And thereupon the said THOMAS MORGAN Demaudeth against the said WILLIAM
VAUGHAN, Tenant, by his own Warranty, the said Burrough, Manner, Tenements, Mills,
(fishery, flairs and Marketts, with the Appurtenances in manner aforesaid, etc. And there-
upon He declares that he was Seized of the said Burrough, Mannor, Tenements, Mills,
ffishery, flairs and Marketts, with the Appurtenances in his Demeasne as of ffee and Right
in Time of Peace in the Time of our Lord the King that now is, by taking the Profitts
thereof to the Value, etc., and wherein, etc., and thereof he bringeth suit, etc. And the
said William Vaughan by his said Attornies Cometli and defendeth his Right when, etc.
And thereupon He Voucheth to Warranty John Owen, who is personally present here in
Court and freely Warranteth the said Burrough, Manuor, Tenements, Mills, ffishery, flairs
and Marketts, with the Appurtenances, etc.
And thereupon the said THOMAS MORGAN demandeth against the said JOHN OWE>J,
Tenant by his Own Warranty, the said Burrough, Manner, Tenements, Mills, ffishery,
flairs and Marketts, with the Appurtenances, in manner aforesaid, etc. And Thereupon,
He declares that he was Seized of the said Burrough, Mannor, Tenements, Mills, ffishery,
flairs and Marketts, with the Appurtenances in his Demeasne, as of ffee and Right in
Time of Peace, in the Time of our Lord the King that now is, by taking the Profitts
thereof to the Value, etc., and whereof, etc., and thereof he bringeth Suit, etc. And the
said John Owen, Tenant by his own Warranty, Comes and defends his Right when, etc.
And Saith that the said Hugh Hunt did not Disseize the said Thomas Morgan, of the said
Burrough, Mannor, Tenements, Mills, ffishery, flairs and Marketts, with the Appur-
tenances, as the said Thomas Morgan Doth by his Writt and Declaration above suppose.
And of this he putts himself upon the Country.
And the said THOMAS MORGAN Craveth leave to Imparle, and He hath it, etc. And
afterwards, in this same Sessions, the said Thomas Morgan Cometh personally here into
Court, And the said JOHN OWEN, although Solemnly called, Cometh not, but departed in
Contempt of the Court and maketh default.
Therefore, It is Considered That the said THOMAS MORGAN Doth Recover his Seizin of
the said Burrough, Maunor, Tenements, Mills, ftishery, flairs and Marketts, with the
Appurtenances, against the said ROGER JONES ; And that the said ROGER JONES Do have of
the Lands of the said WILLIAM GWVN VAUGHAN to the value, etc. And that the said
WILLIAM GWYN VAUGHAN Do have of the Lands of the said WLLIIAM VAUGHAN to the Value,
etc. And that the said WILLIAM VAUGHAN Do have of the Lauds of the said JOHN OWEN to
the Value, etc. And that the said JOHN OWEN be in Mercy, etc.
And that thereupon the said THOMAS MORGAN prays the Writt of our Sovereign Lord
the King to be directed to the Sheriff of the said County to Cause full Seizin of the said
Burrough, Mannor, Tenements, Mills, ftishery, flairs and Marketts, with the Appur-
tenances to be delivered to him. And the same is Granted him, returnable here on
Wednesday, in this present Great Sessions ; At which Day Came the said THOMAS MORGAN
in his proper person here into Court, and the Sheriff, namely, JOHN WILLIAMS, Esquire, now
returneth, That he, by Virtue of the said Writt, did on Tuesday, in this same Sessions,
Cause full Seizin of the said Burrough, Mannor, Tenements, Mills, ffishery, flairs and
Marketts, with the Appurtenances, to be delivered to the said THOMAS MORGAN, as by the
said Writt he was Commanded. All and Singular which said Premisses, at the request
of the said THOMAS MORGAN, we have Caused to be Exemplified by the Tenor of these
Presents.
VOL. II. M
(82)
Tn Testimony whereof, we have Caused our Seals Appointed for Sealing of Writts to
be hereunto Affixed. Witness : Richard Carter, Esquire, at Brecon, the Thirteenth Day of
August, in the Twenty-Sixth Year of our Reign.
EYRE.
WlLKlNS.
o
[Endorsed] Mr. Vaughan, of Trebarried's, Recovery.
These old forms of Recoveries, which are not easy to understand, were abolished
by 3 and 4 Will. IV, cap. 74, as to England, and by 5 and 6 Viet., cap. 32, as to Wales
and Cheshire.
The Create Messuage.— Town of Brecon,
Conveyance of. — 1622.
1622. — Conveyance of the Great Messuage by Walter Davides, of Brecon, gent., and Ann, hia
wife, to Howell Jeffreys, of Brecon, Gent. The premises are described as being
in Cantercally Wood, near the Gwely Arthur Turret in the Town Wall, probably
Watton Mount.
This Indenture, made the Tenth dale of March, in the yeares of the Raigne of our
soveraigne Lord James, by the grace of God, of England, Scotland, ffraunce, and Ireland,
Kinge Defender of the fayth, etc. (that ys to saie), of England, ffraunce and Ireland the
Twentieth, and of Scotland the sixe and tieftieth.
Betweene Walter Davides of the parrishe of Sainct Davides in Llanvaes, in the Count ie
of Brecknock, gent., and Anne his wief of the one partie, And Howell Jeffreys, of the
Towne of Brecknock, in the said Countie, gent., of the other partie.
Witnesseth that the said Walter Davides and Anno his wief for and in Consideracone
of the some of Threscore poundes of lawfull money of England to them before the
ensealinge and deliveringe hearof by the said Howell Jeffreys well and trulie paied, And
for diverse other good, lawfull and valuable Consideracons them movinge, Have given,
graunted, bargayned, sould and Confirmed, And by these presentes doe Clierly and
absolutely give, graunt, bargaine, sell, enfeoffe, and Confirme vnto the said Howell Jeffreys,
his heires and assignes for ever.
All that greate Messuage or Burgage and Curtilage and garden thearunto belonginge,
with the appurtenaunces scittuat, lyenge, and beinge with in the Towne of Brecknock in the
forsaid Countie of Brecon, in a street called Cantercelly ward, Extendinge in length and
breadth and bounded and lymited from the forsaid street a wall adioyninge to an other
Messuage of the said Walter Davides theare, the formest and next quicsett hedge to the
Towne wall, and which leadeth round about a tomppe and Dampson trees theare growinge
towardesthe Middest of the Turret theare vppon the Towne Wall called Gwely Arthur and
the foresaid Towne Wall theare, togeather with all liberties, easmentes, coinodities and
hereditamentes vnto the same belonginge or in anie wiese apperteyninge.
To have and to hould All and singular the said Messuage, Curtilladge, and gardein,
and all other the forsaid premisses with the appurtenauuces, vnto the said Howell Jeffreys,
his heires and assignes, To the only vse and behooffe of him the said Howell Jeffreys, his
heires and assignes for ever. And the said Walter Davides and Anne his wief for them-
selves and either of them, their heires and assigues, doe Covenaunt, promise, agree and
graunt to and with the said Howell Jeffreys, his heires and assignes, in maner and forme
folowinge, that ys to saie, That they the said Walter Davides and Anne his wief nowe are,
or one of them is reightfull and lawfull owners or owner, and seised of and in the forsaid
(33)
Messuage, Curtilladge, and gardein, and other the premisses with the appurtenaunces, soe
as they May assure and Convey the same in sorte, and to the vse and behooffe heariu
before expressed, And that the same nowe is and for ever hear after shal be dischardged,
freed, acquited, or otherwiese sufficiently saved and keapt harmlesse of and from All other
former bargaines, sales, joinctures, Dowres, entayles, forfeitures, utlagaries, extentes, and all
other encombraunces whatsoever (The rentes, duties, Customes and services from hence-
furth due and of right accustomed to the Lord or Lordes of the fee thearof only excepted),
And that they the said Walter Davides and Anne his wief and theire heires shall and
will at the Kinges majestes next great Sessions, to be houldon in and for the Countie of
Brecknock, before the Kinges Highes Justices or Justice of the said Sessions (Acknowledge
and Coufesse one fyne Sur Conizaunce de droit come ceo qui ils ount de lour done) of, in,
and uppon the forsaid Messuage or Burgage, Curtillage and gardein, and all other the
premisses with the appurtenaunces, By the name or names of one Burgage, one Curtilladge,
and one gardein, with the appurtenaunces, in the Towne of Brecknock, or by anie other
name or names, quantitie or quantities, as shall be expressed and Comprised in the said
fyne, And in and by which fyne the said Walter Davides and Anne his wief shall acknow-
ledge the said Messuage or Burgage, Curtilladge and gardein, with the appurteuaunces, to
be the right of the said Howell Jeffreys, as those which the said Howell hath of the gieft of
the said Walter and Anne, And the sane shall remise, release, and for ever quitclayme
from them and the heires of the said Walter unto the said Howell and his heires for ever.
And further more the said Walter and Anne, and the heires of the said Walter, shall
graunte for themselves and the heires of the said Walter, that the said Walter and Anne,
and the heires of the said Walter, shall and will the foresaid Messuage or Burgage, Curtil
ladge and gardein, with the appurtenaunces, unto the said Howell and his heires, against
all men warrant and defend for ever, Which fyne soe to be levyed and acknowledged with
proclamacions thearin to be had accordinge to the forme of the statutes in such Cases made
and provided, shall for ever after the acknowledgment thearof, be, Continewe, and inure, and
soe shall for ever then after be, Continue and inure, and adjudged taken and Construed to
be to the only use and bebooffe of him the said Howell Jeffreys, his heires and assignes for
ever, and to noe other use, intente, or purpose whatsoever.
And further, that they the said Walter Davides and Annie his wife, and the heires of
the said Walter, shall and will, at and uppon the reasonable request, desire, Costes and
Chardges in the lawe of the said Howell Jeffreys, his heires or assignes doe make know-
ledge, execute, and performe, or Cause and suffer to be donne, made, knowledged and
performed, All and every such other and further reasonable acte and actes, thinge and
thinges, estate, Conveyaunce, and assurannce in the lawe whatsoever as by the said Howell
Jeffreys, his heires or assignes, or by his or theire Councell learned in the lawe shall be
reasonablie Devised, advised, and required for and to the further estatinge, more absolute
Conveynge and suermakinge of all and singular the said Messuage or Burgage, Curtilladge
and gardein, with the appurtenaunces unto the said Howell Jeffreys, his heires and
assignes, to the only use and behooffe of him, the said Howell Jeffreys, his heires and
assignes for ever, Be it by anie other fyne or fynes, deed or deeds, enrowled or not
enrowled, Release with warrantie generall Recovery, with single or double voucher or
vouchers, or by anie other matter of fact or Record. In wittnes whearof both the said
parties to these present Indentures have Interrchaugeablie put theire handes and scales the
dale and yeare first above written.
1622.
Walter Dauies
the marke of Ann X Dauies.
[Endorsed] Sealed, and delivered, and lyvery and seisin executed with the Messuage or
Burgage within specified, in the presence of David Williams (?)
The mark of Will'm Howell of Tredyrharne.
John Jeffreys.
Eobert Fowress (?)
(Two other signatures of witnesses quite illegible).
(84)
Talachddu Parish.
This church and parish date far back in pre-Refortnation days, and are coeval with the
rest of the churches and parishes in Breconshire, all of which will be found named in the
Valor Ecclesiasticus, temp. Henry VIII, and mapped on the plan accompanying it. Whether
this church was built in the eleventh, twelfth, or thirteenth century, no one can now tell,
nor who chose the site, designed the building, and paid the cost. The site was well
chosen, on a dry commanding ridge — Tal aich ddu — running east and west between two
small streams, and close to the straight main road — and then the only one — leading from
Bronllys to Llanddew and Brecon. The walls were built solid and massive, and the
width of the nave is remarkable, and the barrel roof, consisting of semicircular ribs of oak
wood, placed at close intervals, is exceptionally strong. In fact, the church has a character
of its own, and is not like the ordinary pointed roof churches to be seen generally
throughout the county.
The site of the church and churchyard is also a strong one strategetically, and may
have been chosen for that reason. It is easy to imagine, in primitive times, when danger
arose, and the church bell summoned the neighbours, that they flocked to the churchyard,
and there, with the priest at their head, behind the walls of the churchyard, were able to
give a good account of themselves, and ward off ordinary attacks. And the women and
children were placed inside the church for safety. I often think of the parish churches
being used as a sort of fortress in the olden time.
Theo : Jones states that the tower — a clumsy one he calls it — had three bells, but in
more modern time it has possessed only two. On these being taken down recently
(in 1880) to be recast, the following inscriptions were found upon them : On the small
bell, " Sancte Gabriel, Ora pro nobis," and on the large one, " Sancta Maria, Ora pro
nobis." The Catholic (Roman) foundation of the church is thus shown to be undoubted.
Care has been to have the same inscriptions restored in the re-casting.
The low tower and the low side walls of the nave and chancel secure some
advantages : that of less danger of the fabric being struck by lightning, and of less
damage by wind and rain, to both of which the position on the top of the ridge of ground
render it specially liable.
The earliest record we have extant relating to this parish — for it does not appear to
be mentioned in Pope Nicholas' " Taxation"- — is the entry in the Valor Ecclesiasticus in
1520:—
" Tallazduy. In 1st part of Deanery of Brecon Master Combe, rector £ s. d.
there ; in tithes of Sheaves— and other emoluments there, it is
worth . . . . . . 4 17 4
Whereof in Sinodal and procuration fees each year . .055
And there remains clear . . . . 4 11 11
The tithe thereof . . .09 2J"
In 1551, 4 Edw. VI, the Inquisition post mortem of Thomas James, gentleman, states
that he held by grant from the late King the manor and advowson of Talachduy
(Vol 1, 41.)
The parish is fortunate in possessing a Register Book (No. I), commencing in 1601,
and continuing to 1644. This is one of the earliest in the county, and I propose to print
it in extenso, and also the succeeding Register Book (No. II), which carries the parish
records down to 1679. This period of 80 years includes the reign of Charles I, the
Commonwealth period, and the Restoration and reign of Charles II.
THE NAVE OF TALACHDDU CHURCH.
(85)
[COPT.]
TALACHDDU PARISH REGISTER, 1600 TO 1644.
(Old Parchment Register, Book I.)
A.D. 1601.
Jevan Thomas and John Thomas, baptized 25 day of June.
Anne, the wife of the aforesaid (sic) Thomas ap John, was buried 15 July.
Thomas ap John was married with Elnor, the daughter of John Edward Games, 22 October.
Thomas, the sou of Thomas Morgan, was baptized the 23 October.
(Note at foot of page as to paying to Llus Watkin, sadler, 4/- by " niy wife.")
Thomas ap John was married 27 November.
1602.
Catherine (sic) vz William John David, was buried the last day of June.
(In margin, Rice Havard, gentleman.)
On 10 October was baptized Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas ap John.
1602 (1603).
(Up to A.D. 1752, the year changed on the 25th of March, not on the 1st of
January.)
On 20 February was baptized Nesta, daughter of William ap Gwilliam.
1603.
On 27 April was buried Watkin John Parrie.
On 3 August was baptized David, Son of William.
On 2 November was baptized Elizabeth, daughter of David Thomas.
On 27 February was baptized William Lewis, son of William Morgan.
On 20 March was buried Meredith (Merdd) Morgan.
On the same day was buried William Morgan.
A.D. 1604.
On 14 April was baptized William, son of Watkin John.
Doykye (sic) vz John was buried June 16 in the same year.
John Edward was buried 7 October in the year aforesaid.
Jain, daughter of David ap Jevau, is baptized 27 October in the said year.
Was buried DD G waiter on 20 February, A.D. 1604 (5).
(The name written DD is probably a contraction of David.)
A.D. 1605.
Also was buried Philip Pritchard, 4 April.
Also was buried Catherine Vaughan, 22 May in the year aforesaid.
Also baptized Richard Lewis, 24 May in the year aforesaid.
Also baptized Ispell vz Thomas, 16 September in the said year.
(86)
Also baptized John Thomas ap John, 12 November in the year aforesaid.
Also baptized Matilda vz— Thomas, 23 March in the year aforesaid.
Also was buried Matilda vz David Thomas, 13 April, 1606.
Also was baptized John, son of William ap William, on the day and year aforesaid.
1606.
On 14 August was baptized Roger, son of Thomas John Thomas ap Rees.
On 18 October was baptized Margaret, daughter of Rice Lien of Gwenddoe.
On 9 November was buried Alice vz John, wife of Jevan John William.
On 22 November matrimony was solemnised between David Thomas Phee of Llandevalle,
and Elizabeth vz Phee of the parish of Llanthew.
On 28 November was buried Davyd, son of Lewis Morgan.
On 29 November was baptized Richard, son of Rice ap Holl DD.
On 22 December matrimony was solemnised between Watkin Vaughan, gentleman, of
Merthir, and Katheriue' Parry of Llandevalley, in the mansion house of William
Parry, gentleman, called Trebarried, by Thomas Lewis, Clerk, then Rector of this
parish of Talaughthy.
On 29 November was baptized Richard, son of Rice ap Howell DD.
(Entered previously.)
On 24 January was buried Jenkin, son of William, 1606 (7).
On 12 February matrimony was solemnised between Thomas DD Thomas John of Llanvi-
hangell Vechan, and Gwenllian vz DD Thomas John of this parish.
On 12 February matrimony was solemnized between Edward Thomas Morgan and Izabella
vz Thomas.
On 15 February was baptized Edward, son of David Thomas DD, of Vedw Vach.
On 17 February was buried a certain poor woman, named Elizabeth.
On 6 March was baptized John, son of Watkin John Davyd.
Watkin, son of T. L. (Thomas Lewis), Clerk, then Rector of Talaughthy and Edward
Walter.
Si ejusdem (sic).
1607.
On 29 March was buried Alice vz Jevan, wife of Rice Thomas William.
On 2 April was buried Rice Thomas William.
On 9 April was baptized John, son of Morgan Thomas Lawrens.
On 11 April was buried John, son of Morgan Thomas Laurens.
On 16 April was buried Katheriue vz DD.
On 19 April, 1607, Walter ap Holl and William ap William are sworn wardens (jurati
sunt gard).
On 3 May was buried John, sou of Watkin John, DD.
On 4 May were buried Gwenllian vz Thomas, mother-in-law (socrus) of Jevan gwilliam, DD.,
and Joan, daughter of Meredith Morgan.
On 30 May matrimony was solemnized between William Edward, of Carthbrengi, and
Matilda vz Holl, of this parish.
On 18 June was buried Richard ap Res Thomas William.
On 16 August was baptized Edward, son of William Edwarde.
On 30 October was baptized John, son of Owen John Davyd, of Gwayn y geifer.
(87)
On 3 January was baptized Walter, son of Rice ap Howell, DD.
On 4 March was baptized John, supposed son of Thomas John William, as Gwenllian vz
Jevan, mother of the same, asserts, and as the said Thomas acknowledges.
On 8 March was buried the said John above named.
1608.
On 29 May was buried John ap Howell John Davyd.
On 4 June was buried Katherine, daughter of Thomas DD Thomas John.
On 16 June was baptized Davyd, son of John DD Thomas.
On 6 August matrimony was solemnized between Lewis Walter and Llikie vz DD Meredith.
On 7 September was baptized John, son of Edward Thomas Morgan.
On 22 September was baptized John, son of John Morgan, miller, of Hoell Morgan Lloid,
of the parish of Gwenddor.
On 16 October was baptized Davyd, sou of William ap William.
On 17 October was buried the said Davyd, son of William ap William.
On 20 October was baptized Richard, son of Thomas John Thomas ap Res.
Richard ap Jevan. I
Tho. Llus, Clerk, j S. ejusdem.
On 27 November was baptized William, son of Owen John DD.
On 8 December was baptized Joneta, daughter.
Now dead :
Alice vz Thomas Lawrens, Joneta, wife of Matthew miller of Rice Havarde, gentleman,
S. ejusdem with Watkin, son of Thomas Llus, Clerk, then rector of this parish.
On 16 March was baptized Roger, son of Thomas John ap Jevan.
1609.
On 1 April was baptized James, son of Watkin John DD.
On 21 April was baptized John, son of David ap Jevan DD, of Llandilo vaen.
On 22 April was buried Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas DD Thomas John.
On 14 May was baptized Margaret, daughter of Lewis Morgan.
On 27 May was buried Alicia vz William.
On last day of May was buried Alicia vz DD.
On 12 December was baptized Alicia, daughter of David Thomas DD.
1609 (10).
On first day of January was baptized Roger, son of Howell Havarde, junior, of the parish
of Llanthew, Thomas Poell, Clerk, Vicar of Divynock, officiating.
On 19 March was buried Gwenlliau, daughter of Jenkin ap Res Jenkin.
1610.
On 2 April was baptized Thomas, putative sou of Roger Thomas poll ap Owen, as Gwenllian
vz Jevan, the mother, asserts.
On 20 April was buried John, putative son of Edward John Edwarde, as Gwladissa, his
mother, asserts.
On 1 May was buried Thomas, putative son of Roger Thomas Poll ap Owen.
On 25 May was baptized William, son of William Davies, of Michmarkell, in co. Hereford.
On 27 May, viz. : in the feast of Pentecost, was baptized John, son of Edward John DD.
(88)
On 20 June was baptized Johanna, daughter of Rice ap Holl DD.
On 9 November was baptized Katherine, daughter of Thomas John Thomas ap Rice.
Here the Register is turned upside down, and there is a note of a " sore frost " in the
time of William the Conqueror, and other frosts in the reigns of Henry III, Edward III,
Henry IV, and Henry VI.
Then follows a paragraph headed " Dearth of Corne," and saying how scarce it was in
the reigns of Henry III, Edward I, and Henry VIII.
Next comes a paragraph headed " Elidurus the King," mentioning Ptholomeus
Philadelphus, who was King of Egypt, 283 B.C.
Then the shires or counties in England and Wales are given.
After that the 25 Bishoprics in England and Wales are given.
On 10 November matrimony was solemnized between Watkiu Thomas Lewis and Elizabeth
vz John Edwarde.
On 17 November was baptized Alice, daughter of David John ap Eosser, then dwelling in
Tyle crwnn.
1610 (11).
On 2 February, viz., in the feast of the Purification of the Blessed Mary the Virgin, was
buried Jevan William DD.
On 15 February was buried Alicia vz DD.
1611.
On 18 April matrimony was solemnized between Jevan John ap Jevan and Elizabeth vz
Hoell.
On 1 May was buried Jane vz Jenkin ap Rice, wife of John ap Jevan John.
On 7 May was buried Elizabeth vz Jevan, the wife of Thomas Lewis, Clerk, then rector of
Talaughthy.
On 13 July matrimony was solemnized between Meredith DD ap Howell and Alice vz
Robert, relict of Jevan William DD.
On 14 August was buried Richard John Telyn.
On 5 September was baptized John, son of Watkin Thomas Lewis, nephew (wepos) of
Thomas Lewis, Clerk, then rector of Talaughthy.
On 12 October, viz., on Saturday, late at night (multa node) of the same day, matrimony
was solemnized between John "Watkin ap Hugh and Alice vz Rosser Merdd in this
Church of Talaughthy, coming from the town of Brecon.
On 30 October was baptized Thomas, son of Edward Thomas Morgan.
On 15 November was buried Thomas DD Thomas John.
On 16 December was baptized Thomas, son of Edward John DD.
On 1 7 December was baptized Walter, son of Rice William Merdd of Llandevalle.
On 18 December was baptized Gwenlliana, daughter of Lewis Morgan.
On 19 December was buried Elenora vz John Edwarde, wife of Thomas John Thomas
ap Res.
1611 (12).
On 27 January was baptized Alice, daughter of Watkin John DD.
On 2 February matrimony was solemnized between John Robert and Maulde vz Robert.
On 4 February was buried Alice, daughter of Watkin John DD.
On 15 February was buried Thomas, son of Edward John DD.
(89)
On 18 February matrimony was solemnized between Meredith Howell Merdd and Catherine
vz William ap Rice Morgan, of Garthbrengy.
On 23 February (Quinquagesima Sunday), matrimony was solemnized between Jevan
Watkin ap Jevan John William and Maulde vz Thomas ap Harry Edwarde.
On 1 March was baptized William, son of David Thomas DD.
1612.
On 5 April was buried Elizabeth vz Thomas, alias Vawr.
On 22 April was buried James, putative son of Gregory Winter, gentleman.
On 26 April was buried William, son of David Thomas DD, of Vedw fach.
On 2 June was baptized Elizabeth, daughter of Jevan John ap Jevan John William.
On 9 June was buried Lewis, son of Watkin, miller, of Thomas ap Harry Edward,
a two-year-old boy, who hiding (unknown to his father) in the race of the
corn mill of the said Thomas Parry, was drawn in by the water of the pool and
drowned.
On 16 June was buried Elizabeth, daughter of Jevan John np Jevan John William.
On 18 September was buried Daniel Thomas John.
On 23 September was buried Margaret vz Thomas William.
On 22 November was buried Gwenllian, daughter of Lewis Morgan.
On 26 November was baptized Jeana, daughter of Walter John Edwarde.
1612 (13).
On 2 January was buried Isabella vz Rice ap John Ychan, mother of Gwalter ap Howell.
On 28 January (being Wednesday) was buried Elizabeth, daughter of Rice ap Richarde.
On 4 March was baptized' Watkin, son of Jevan Watkin ap Jevan John William.
On 7 March was buried Gwenllian vz Hoell, wife of Hoell John DD.
On the 14 March (Sunday) was baptized Thomas, son of Watkin Thomas, son of Thomas
Lewis, Clerk, then rector of this parish of Talaughthy. (Entered twice in Register.)
1613.
On 20 April (Tuesday) was baptized David, son of Watkin John DD.
On 15 May (Saturday) was baptized Margaret, daughter of William ap William.
On 28 May (Friday) was baptized Margaret, daughter of Rice ap Howell DD, then
superintendent (villici) of Jevan Thomas DD, of Trosgoed, of the parish of
Gwenthor.
On 22 June was baptized Elizabeth, daughter of Edward John DD.
On 20 July was buried Jaena vz Rice, wife of Edward John DD.
On 27 July was baptized William, sou of John William Davyd.
On 8 September was buried Joan vz Thomas, alias Lwyd.
On 16 September was baptized Anna, daughter of James Michaells, gentleman, of the
parish of Gwenthor.
On 29 September was buried Richard ap Jevan John Willim.
On 18 November was baptized Jenkin, son of Lewis Morgan.
On 27 November was buried Thomas ap Jevau Thomas.
VOL. II. N
(90)
1613 (14).
On 5 January was buried Jenkin, son of Lewis Morgan.
On 1 February was buried Anna, daughter of James Michaells, of Gwenthor.
On 2 February (Monday), viz., in the feast of the Purification of the Blessed Mary the
Virgin, matrimony was solemnised between Jevan Thomas ap Jevan and Sibilla vz
Howell Morgan Lloyd, of Gwenthor.
On 7 February matrimony was solemnised between Howell ap Jevan and Alice vz DD
Thomas John, in the Church of Llanthew, Keinald Morys, Clerk, curate there
ministering " uno dierum jEgyptiacarum."
On 13 March was baptized Margaret, daughter of David Thomas DD, of Vedwfach.
On 16 March was buried William, putative son of Robert William, by the sister of the
wife of Merdd DD Powell.
On 18 April was buried Margaret vz Willim Vaughau.
On 5 May matrimony was solemnised between G waiter ap Rice Thomas Willim and
J uana vz John William John Willim.
On 6 May was baptized Jaena, putative daughter of James ap Richard by Maria Thomas.
On 22 May was baptized Howellus, son of Walter Havarde, gentleman, of Caer Byrthy.
On 2 August was buried Margaret, daughter of William Lawrence.
1614.
On 1 October was baptized William, son of Philip Walter Thomas ap Owen.
On 18 October was buried John ap Richard, miller, of Rice Havarde, gentleman.
On 16 October matrimony was solemnised between Hoell John DD and Katherine vz John
Parry, uno dierum JEgiptiacarum (Unlucky days, see Du Gauge).
On 18 November was buried Ursula, daughter of Howell Havarde, gentleman.
On 12 December was buried Margaret vz Thomas, wife of John James.
On 24 December was buried Daniel James.
On 4 January was buried Watkin John David.
1614 (15).
On 29 January was baptized Thomas, sou of Jevan Watkin ap Jevan John Willim.
On the last day of January matrimony was solemnised between Philip Morgan ap Howell,
of Llandevalle, and Catherine vz Thomas ap Rice, of Crickadarn.
On 7 February was buried David, son of Watkin John DD.
On 11 February was buried Eice Havard, gentleman.
On 9 March was baptized Catherine, daughter of Howell ap Rice, of Caer bwla ycha.
On 1 4 March was baptized Jaena, daughter of Watkin ap Rice Thomas Willim.
On 23 March was buried Jaena, daughter of Watkin ap Rice Thomas Willim.
1615.
On 28 March was baptized John, son of Jevan John ap Jevan John Willim, then living iu
Caer Bwla issa.
On 4 April was baptized John, son of Edward Jevan John Willim Koz.
On 2 May was baptized and buried Howell, son of Lewis Morgan.
On 8 May was buried John, son of Jevan John ap Jevan, then living in Kaer Bwla issa,
as is abovesaid.
On 9 May was buried John, son of William ap William.
(91)
On 12 May was buried Lucia vz John, wife of Meredith John Willim.
On 11 June was buried William, son of William ap William, as Gwenllian vz DD asserts.
On 23 June was buried John, son of Edward ap Jevan John Willim ap Jevan coz.
On 2 July was baptized Joneta, daughter of Howell ap Jevan.
On 24 August was baptized Christopher, son of Walter Thomas Lewis, son of Thomas
Lewis, Clerk, then rector of this parish of Talaughthy.
On 16 September was baptized Edward, putative son of Lewis Watkin, as Joan vz Thomas,
the mother, most firmly asserts.
On 1 October was buried Joneta, daughter of Howell ap Jevan.
On 9 November, matrimony was solemnised between Thomas Watkin and Jaene vz
William ap William.
On 18 November matrimony was solemnised between William Griffith John, of Nantbrane,
and Jonet James, relict of Watkin John DD.
On the last day of November, in the feast of St. Andrew the Apostle, was baptized Elenor,
daughter of Walter John Edwarde.
1615 (16).
On the last day of January was baptized Maud, daughter of Thomas William alias Mason,
then dwelling in Tyle Crwnn, in the parish of Llanvillo.
On 12 February matrimony was solemnised between David ap Rice Morgan and Matilda
vz Owen ap Rice.
On 13 February matrimony was solemnized between Thomas Philip Walter and Maud vz
Hoell Merdd, in this Church of Talaughthy.
On 10 March was baptized John, son of Jevan John ap Jevan John William, of Kaer
bwla issa.
1616.
On 30 March was baptized Jaena, daughter of Watkin ap Rice Thomas Willim.
On 1 April was baptized Maud, daughter of Lewis ap Howell Lewis.
On 12 April was baptized Thomas, son of Rice ap Hoell DD.
On 5 May was baptized Maud, daughter of Philip ap Rosser.
On 26 May, viz., in the feast of Trinity, was baptized Anna, daughter of David Thomas DD.
of vedw fach.
Ou 15 May matrimony was solemnised between Maurice Griffith and Joan William.
On 26 June matrimony was solemnised between Gwalter Davyd Gwalter of this parish,
and Isabella vz Rice Thomas Madocke, of Garthbrengny.
CHURCH WARDENS.
1611 DD Thomas DD 1617 Walter John Edwarde
Thomas DD Thomas Morice Griffith
1612 Edwarde John Edwarde Howell ap Jevan and Holl
Rice ap Richarde ap Res.
1613 Res Havarde 1618 Meredith Howell
Tho : John Tho : ap Res Gwalter David
1614 Jevan Watkin 1619 Jevan Philippe
Howell John DD John ap Res Morgan
1615 Lewis Morgan 1620 Rice Pricharde
John William DD Watkin Poll Weaver
1616 John Merdd Morgan 1621 John ap John Edwarde
Meredith ap David Watkin Poll William
(92)
1622 Edwarde Havarde 1626 Thomas Watkin Tho : Madooke
William Bevan Howell DD Gwalter
1623 John DD Thomas 1627 Thomas David
Morgan John William Howell Walter Poll
1624 Kdwarde John 1628 William Watkin
John Watkin Bevan John William ap Kes, Junior
1625 Watkin ap Rice Tho : Madocke 1629 Roger Havarde, gent.
John Watkin ap Jevan Jevan Thomas of Kefu in Echlais
1616.
On 9 July matrimony was solemnised between William Meredith DD Meredith and
Margaret vz Rice Poll Willim de Merthir, in this parish Church of Talaughthy.
On 12 August was baptized Jaena, daughter of Thomas Watkin Thomas Madocke.
On 27 August was buried Maud vz Owen, wife of William DD Willim.
On 28 August was baptized Philip, son of Watkiu Philip Walter.
On 1 December was baptized Howell, son of Meredith Howell Merdd.
On 29 December was baptised William, son of David ap Rice Morgan.
1616 (17).
On 5 February was baptized James, son of John Brampton, of the parish of Bredwarden in
co. Hereford, as Maud vz Owen, mother of same, asserted in protestation of the truth.
On 16 February matrimony was solemnised between William ap Jevan and Alice vz
Watkin.
On 23 March baptized William, son of Maurice Griffith.
1617.
On the 27 March was baptized Alice, putative daughter of Evan Philippe, then superin-
tendent of Thomas Powell, Esq., lord of Tallyllynn, as Isabella vz Jevan, mother of
the sume, asserted.
On 28 March was buried William, son of Maurice Griffith.
On 29 March was buried Alice, putative daughter of Evan Philippe, above mentioned.
1617 Water John Ed : ) ,„ ,
\r • r( -ffii.u f Wardens.
Morice Griffith, j
On 2 July was baptized Thomas, son of Thomas Philippe Walter.
On 16 July matrimony was solemnised between William DD William, miller, and Elizabeth
vz Thomas de Glasbury.
On 24 August, viz., in the feast of St. Bartholomew the Apostle, was baptized Edward, son
of Morgan John William, of Dderwen goppa.
THE ACOOMPTE OF JOHN MDD MORGAN AND MERDD AP DD,
CHURCHWARDENS OF TALAUGHTHY, EENDRED
THE . . . 1616.
Taxed upon the parishe, xxxis.
Whereof paid for makinge of the Bill at the Inquisition the ixth of Aprill 1616, mid.
At the deliveringe up of the same, viiirf.
Paid for their diet that daye, viiic?.
Paid for recordinge of our appearance in Llanvair, mid.
Paid the xth of Maye in the Court, iis. viiid.
(93)
Paid for our diet that daye, viiid.
Paid for the Kinges Proclamation and ray Lord Bishoppes Edict, mid.
Paid for parchment, iiiid.
Paid for bell roapes, xs.
Paid for Merdd ap DD's charges in goinge and returning to and from Worcester, iis.
Paid on the Consistory the vth of July for our apparance, xvid.
Paid for our diet that daye, viiid.
Paid for lime, xviiid.
Paid for tilestones, vid.
Paid for a hired horse to carry the tilestones, mid.
Paid for nayles to fasten the steeple boordes, vie?.
Paid for foure boordes to be added to the steeple boordes, mid.
Paid the xxith of July in the Courte, xvid.
Paid to the parson for makinge of this Accompte, iiiid.
Paid the iiiith of August for bread and wine, xviiid
Paid to the Courte, iis.
Paid the xviith of September in the Court for the brief for Virginia, xiid.
Paid for our diet that daye, viiid.
Paid otherwise, xiid.
Paid the 1 of October, xvid.
Paid the xxx of October, xvid.
Our charges that duie, viiid.
Paid above the xviid. that were gathered of the parishe for the first payment for
Virginia, viid.
Paid to the tiler, xvid.
Paid the 10th of December, xvid.
F»r our diet that day, viiid,
For bread and wine against the xixth of January, iis. iiiid.
Paid in the court the iiiith of February, iis.
Paid the last of January for mendinge the church doore to Merdd Holl, vid.
Paid to the Parson for drawinge a Copie of the Eegister booke, iiiis.
Paid the xxviiith of March, 1617, at the deliveringe up of the Eegister booke, iiiid.
Paid in fees of the Court that day, xvid.
Paid for our diet that day, viiid.
Paid the 15th of Aprill in the Courte, viiid.
THE CHURCH BOOKES OF TALAUGHTHY,
Viewed by Morgan John William, Churchwarden there in A.D. 1623, to be delivered from
Churchwardens to Churchwardens as they are changed yearlye, for feare they be lost
or conveyed by any.
ii Bibles, one in Englishe, of the last edition, and one in Welshe.
ii Communion bookes, one in Englishe and one in Welshe.
ii bookes of Homelies, one in Englishe, another in Welshe.
Jewell and Hardinge.
(94)
A Communion booke in Englishe of Edwarde the vith.
Canous or Constitutions.
A booke for the vth of November.
An Order for prayer.
A form of comon prayer.
An order of prayer in A.D. 1586.
Articles from Edmonde Archbishoppes, 1582.
iii bookes of Articles of bishoppe Anthony.
iii bookes of Articles of bishoppe Milborne.
i booke of Articles of bishoppe William Laude, 1622.
i other booke of Bishoppe William Laude, in A.D. 1625.
ii bookes for the avertinge of the plague in Anno 1625, whereof Thomas David hath one.
i booke of Thanksgivinge for the stayinge of the contagious sicknes of the plague, 1625.
1617.
On 24 September was baptized Agnes, daughter of Thomas ap Thomas Hairy Edwarde, of
the parish of Gwenthor.
On 27 -September matrimony was solemnized between John Philippe Griffith and Katherine
vz Hoell John DD.
On 7 October was baptized Anna, daughter of John Phillippe Griffith, servant of Walter
Havarde, gentleman.
On 19 October was baptized Jane, daughter of Watkin Thomas Lewis, son of Thomas
Lewis, Clerk, then rector of this parish of Talaughthy.
On 3 December was baptized Jane, daughter of Jevan Philippe.
On 14 December was baptized William, son of James Michaelles, of Gwenthor.
On 26 December was baptized Elizabeth, daughter of James Thomas Jenkin.
1617 (18).
On 29 January was baptized John, putative son of David Jenkin Morgan, of Trallonge, as
Susan, the mother of the same, asserts on the peril of her soul.
On 1 February was baptized Alice, daughter of Thomas Watkin Thomas Madocke.
On 6 February was buried John, putative son of David Jenkin Morgan, as above.
On 15 March was baptized Eichard, son of William DD William de Llauthewizcom.
Meredith ap Holl, 1 .,, ,
Gwalter DD. ) Wardei18-
1618.
On 17 April was buried Thomas, putative son of - — , as Gwladissa vz William, Mother
of the same, asserts.
On 21 May was buried Maud, daughter of Philip Prosser.
On 23 May was baptized Alice, daughter of William ap Jevan.
Ou 2 August was baptized Richard, son of Jevan Watkin ap Jevan John Willim.
On 8 November was buried Thomas John ap Jevan.
(95)
ALLOTMENT OF THE CHURCHYARD.
Partes of the Churchyards as they are Allotted to every severall parishioner, by the
undoubted knowledge of Morgan Thomas Lawrence, sett downe in Anno Domini 1618,
Meredith Holl Merdd and Gwalter Davyd, then Churchwardens of Talaughthy.
Jo. Tho. Watkin. 1. From the farthest crosse hedge in ye Churchyarde to the stone on
hir side in the wall next the stile on that side alotted to the landes
of Gwalter Poll.
2. Seconde, to ye landes of Glandylais.
3. Thirde, to the landes of Edwarde Havarde.
4. Fourth, to the landes of Watkin ap Rice, of Llwyn Kynocke, Lyd.
David William. 5. Fifte to Watkiu John DD.
6. Sixt to Kaer bryddy.
Vednr Vach. 7. Seaventh to David Thomas DD.
Cod y Tyle 8. Eight to Howell John DD.
9. Ninth to Tir y Pante DW.
Walter Watkins. 10. Tenth to William ap William.
and
Howell William.
Argod. 11. Eleventh to Lewis Morgan.
12. Twelfe to Rice ap Richard e.
13. Thirteenth to Jevan Thomas David, of Llwyn Kynocke.
14. Fourteen to Kefu y garth.
David Wm. 15. Fifteenth to John DD Thomas and Howell ap Jevau.
Rhydy Coppa. 16. Sixteenth to Jevan Watkiu.
CaebwlaVach. 17. Seaventeenth to Kae'r bwla issa
18. Eighteenth to Kefu Mechlais.
Carebwla vawre. 19. Nineteenth to Kae'r bwla ycha.
20. Twentie to Edward John, of Fynglas.
Dderwen goppa. 21. One and twentie to John William, of Derwen goppa.
CHURCHWARDENS' ACCOUNT.
The Accompte of Water John Edwarde and Morys Griffith, Churchwardens of Talaughthy
in A.D. 1617.
Imprimisis taxed upon the parishe in Anno eodem, ilili. (£3), whereof paid for mending
the Communion Cuppe, ii«.
Paid towarde the brief in Glocestershire, xikZ.
Paid for bread and wine against the xxvth of January, xxd.
Item paid at the Inquisition on lowe easter Tuesdaye, viiic?.
Paid the xxviith of January, xiid., and viiit/. for our diet.
And for our diet, \\i\d.
Item paid the xixth of June in the Court, xvid
For our diet that day, viiid
Item paid the first daye of July, xvid
For our diet that daye, v'md.
(96)
Paid for linnen for the Communion table, iiis. xid.
Paid to the tiler, John Edwarde, for pargettinge, iiiis.
Paid for amendinge the mattocke and a clampe to the second bell, xiid.
Paid to Watkin James for a piece of Timber, xxd.
Paid for Parchment, vd.
Paid for a piece of Timber, iii.s.
Paid for a weight of haire to be mixed with the lime, viiid.
Paid the xvi of September in the Court, xxd.
For diet that day, viiid.
Paid the last of September in the Inquisition, iis. iiiid.
Paid for bread and wine against the xviith of August, xxd.
Paid upon the Kinges Coronation, xiid.
Paid for tiles, iiiid.
Paid to William Thos. Jenkin, vid.
Paid to Jevan John for all worke, ixs.
Paid to John DD for a peece of Timber, xd.
Paid to another boy, iid.
Paid for the inches (1 hinges) to the Churchyarde doore, xvid.
Paid for our apparance in December, xvid., and for our our diet, viiid..
Paid another court in December, xiid, and viiid. for our diet.
Paid for ix loades of lime, iis. iiid.
Paid for lime at All Saints Eve, iis. vid.
Paid to James Tho. Jenkin, iiiid.
Paid at the Carriage of timber for driuke to the joyner, iiiid.
Paid for writinge of the Taxation roll, iiiid.
Paid for a forme to sette before the Communicantes, iis. viiid.
Paid the xth of March, xxd.
Paid for Virginia, viW.
Paid the xiiiith of Aprill, xiid.
Paid for a coppie of the Register booke to the Parson, vid.
Paid to the Register at the Deliverie thereof, iiiid.
Paid for a quart of wine, deducted out of Rice ap Richardes taxacion, which was given to
Mr. Chancellor, xii.
Paid to the parson for translatinge into Welshe the booke of the Kinges Coronation for the
vth of August and the vth of November, xiid.
Paid for drinke the xxiiiith of March, vid.
Paid for writinge of this Acoompte, iiiid.
Paid to Richarde Havarde for pargettinge, viis.
Unpaid upon
Mr. Water Havarde, iis.
Upon William gr. for both Taxacon, iiis. iiid.
Upon Tho. Jo. Tho. ap Res, iiiid.
nili. xixs. vid.
On 10 November was buried Edward Thomas Morgan.
(97)
On 14 November was baptized Agues, daughter of Evan Thomas ap Evan of Gwenthor.
On 27 November was buried Cecilia vz Jeukin, nurse (nutrix) of Edward John Edwarde.
1618.
Oil 1 December was buried Jaena vz Jevan, wife of John Edwarde.
On 17 December was baptized William, son of Howell ap Jevan.
On 25 December, in the feast of the Nativity of the Lord, was buried John William John
William.
On 26 December was buried William, son of Howell ap Jevan.
1618 (19).
On 1 January was baptized Francis, son of William DD Willim, miller of Velin vach.
On 3 January was baptized Chrisalla, daughter of Walter John Edwarde.
On 4 January was buried the same Chrisilla, daughter of Walter John Edwarde.
On 13 February was baptized Jaena, daughter of Jevan John Jevan, of Pante.
On 2 February was baptized Janeta, daughter of James Thomas Jenkin.
On 10 February matrimony was solemnised between Edward David and Cecilia vz John ap
Res Morgan.
On 14 February was baptized William, son of Maurice Griffith.
On 11 March was baptized Alice, daughter of Watkin Powell, of Comgrygyar.
On 19 March was baptized William, sou of Walter Lewis, deacon, sou of Thomas Lewis,
Clerk, then Rector of this parish.
On 22 March was buried Jeana vz DD., of Abergivessyn.
On 26 April was baptized Watkin, son of Thomas Philippe Walter.
On 8 May was baptized Joan, daughter of Hoell ap Rice, of Kaer Bwla Vcha.
On 17 July matrimony was solemnised between (Iriffin ap Richard Thomas John Goz de
Nant Brane and Alice vz William Poll Jevau, in the Church of Llanthew, by me
Thomas Lewis, Clerk, Rector of Talatighthy.
On 28 August was buried Llikie vz Watkin, wife of Ludovicus ap Richard Lewis ap
Jevan Poll.
1620.
On 23 April was buried Howell John David.
On 4 May was buried Gwalter David Gwalter.
On 6 May was buried Ludovicus Morgan.
On 25 June matrimony was solemnised between William ap Rice and Gwenllian Morgan,
servant of Henry Shermonde, gentleman.
On 3 August was baptized Jaena, daughter of Meredith Powell Merdd.
On 11 October was baptized Grisilla, daughter of Jevan Philippe.
On 24 October was baptized Fabian, son of Philip William Edward, then pastry-cook
(cupedinarii) in Gwayn y Geifer.
1620 (21).
On 4 February was baptized Jaena, daughter of Howell ap Rice de Kaer Bwla ycha.
On 5 February was buried Jevan, son of Howell ap Jevan.
On 22 February was baptized William, son of Jevan Watkin ap Jevau.
VOL. II. 0
(98)
On 25 February was baptized Margaret, daughter of Rice ap Jevan, son in law (generi) of
Alice Thomas Lawrence, then dwelling in Gwayn y geifir.
On the 22 March was buried Edward William DD John, in the Church of Llanthew.
On 23 March was buried Alice, daughter of Ludovicus Richard Lewis Jevan Poll.
1621.
On 26 March was baptized Elizabeth, daughter of James John, of Llanovor, in co.
Monmouth, as vz. Philippe John Jevan, wife of the same as she asserts, affirmed.
On 29 March is baptized Elenor, daughter of Edward David, son in law of John ap Res
Morgan, then living in the house of Roger John, alias Smith.
On 1 April in the feast of Easter was buried Francis, son of William DD William, miller
of Velinvach.
On 29 April was baptized Maude, daughter of Thomas David ap Richarde by Alice vz Res
DD, as the said Thomas acknowledges.
On 28 June were baptized Jevan and John, twin sons of Edward Havarde, who were both
buried on the same day.
On 18 July matrimony was solemnised between Thomas William Thomas David and
Cecilia John David.
On 30 September was baptized Rice, son of John Richarde, son-in-law of Rice ap Richarde.
On 9 October was buried Rice, son of John Richarde, son-in-law of Rice ap Richarde.
On 18 November matrimony was solemnised between William ap Jevau, of Llanvillo, and
Gladys (Gladissam) John,'of Talgarth, in this parish Church of Talaughthy, Walter
Lewis, Clerk, officiating.
On 21 December was baptized David, son of Thomas Davyd Thomas.
1622.
On 23 November matrimony was solemnised between Walter John Edwarde and Juhanna
Watkin, of Glasbury, Walter Lewis, Clerk, officiating.
On 25 December, in the feast of the Nativity of the Lord, matrimony was solemnised
between John David ap John David ap Jevan, of Llandevalle, and Maude vz John, of
Llanvillo, Walter Lewis, Clerk, officiating.
On 14 January matrimony was solemnised between Thomas William Watkin, of Llanthew,
and Maud vz Res Lien, of this parish.
On 21 January was baptized Owen, son of Thomas ap Owen Walter, of Tyle crwnn, in this
parish of Talaughthy, Thomas Lewis, Clerk, officiating.
On 22 January matrimony was solemnised between Edward William and Juhanna
Eosser.
On 26 January was baptized Juhanna, daughter of John Richarde Jenkin, son-in-law of
Rice ap Richarde.
On 6 February was baptized - — , sou uf Owen John David, of Tyle Crwnn, Walter
Lewis, Clerk, officiating.
On 13 May was buried Rice, son of John Havarde.
On 3 June was buried Walter, putative son of John ap Rice Gwynn, of Llanvihangell
Vechan, as Catherine Lewis Morgan, mother of the same, asserts ; the said John, on
the other side, strongly denying it.
On 16 June was buried Thomas, putative son of John William David, whom the said John
then acknowledged to be his son, in the feast of Trinity.
(99)
On 24 August was buried Gwenllian vz David, wife of Jevan Jenkin, alias Tregaron.
On 28 September was baptized Juhanna, daughter of James Thomas Jenkin.
On 14 November was baptized Margaret, daughter of Jevan Philippe.
1622 (23).
On 24 February was babtized Juhanua, daughter of William ap Rice, alias Gwynn, of
Gwayn y geifer.
1623.
On 15 January matrimony was solemnised between William Watkin John David and
Jaena Philippe ap Jevan.
On 1 February was buried Jaena, daughter of Jevan Watkin ap Jevan John William.
On 3 March was buried John James.
This very daye were sette in the Churchyarde of Talaughthy towards the South parte
thereof vi oken Trees, iiii oakes against the north parte thereof, one Holy Tree against
the west, and one Ashe Tree against the South, v Ashe Trees and one oake Tree
ii years before, by Thomas Watkin, then covenant servant to Thomas Lewis, Clerke,
then parson there.
On 4 March, 1623, was sett over the parson's house of Talaughthy one oake by Thomas
Watkin, Mr. John Madockes being then High Sherieff.
On 6 March was baptized Ursula, daughter of Thomas DD ap Richarde by Alice vz Res ap
Jevau DD, as the same Thomas acknowledged.
On 18 March was baptized Isabella, daughter of Howell ap Jevan.
On 11 April was buried Gladys (Gwladissa) John, mother of Watkin Merdd, alias Vrych,
then miller of Edward Lewis, gentleman, lord of Talaughthy.
On 21 April was buried John ap Jevau John William, brought here from the village of
Llanvillo to be buried in this Church.
On 25 April, in the feast of St. Mark the Evangelist, was baptized Margaret, daughter of
Howell ap Rice, of Kaer bwla ycha.
On 2 August was baptized Elizabeth, daughter of Walter Lewis, Clerk, son of Thomas
Lewis, Olerk, then rector of this parish.
On the last day of August was baptized Edward, son of James Michaells, then dwelling in
Trosgoed, in the parish of Gwenthor.
On 10 September was baptized Katherine, daughter of John Havarde, of Velin Vach.
On 18 September was baptized John, son of John John (sic) Edwarde.
On 21 September was baptized Rice, son of Edward Havarde.
On 2 October was baptized John, son of Walter John Edwarde.
On 8 October was buried Rice David ap Jevan.
On 14 October was buried Alice vz William.
On 26 October was buried Thomas John Thomas ap Rice.
On 27 October matrimony was solemnised between Philip Walter and Joueta James.
On 21 December was baptized Jaena, daughter of Jevau Watkin ap Jevan John Willim.
1624.
On 18 January was buried Jaena vz Lewis, wife of Watkin ap Rice Thomas Madocks, who
died directly after delivery, childbirth, and David, son of the late Watkin and Jaena,
brought forth into the light and baptized, died after his baptism and is buried
with her.
(100)
On 21 February was baptized William, son of Griffin ap Rosser, of the parish of Llandevalle.
On 26 February was buried Thomas William, mason.
On 12 May matrimony was solemnised between Watkin ap Rice Thomas Madocke and
Jaena Lewis.
On 8 July matrimony was solemnised between Howell David ap Jevan and Izabella vz
Rice Thomns William.
On 12 August matrimony was solemnised between Thomas ap Rosser Gove, of Lluuvillo,
and Izabella vz William de Llanwern, Walter Lewis, Clerk, officiating.
On 17 August was baptized Elizabeth, daughter of David ap Rioharde DD ap Res, then
dwelling in the house of John ap Rosser Smith in gwayn y geifer, Walter Lewis,
Clerk, officiating.
On 22 August was baptized David, son of Edward Davyd de Gwayn y geifer, sou in law
of John ap Res Morgan.
On 4 September was buried John David Thomas John.
On 9 September was buried Gwelliana vz David ap Jevan de Merthyr Kynocke, then
dwelling in this parish.
On 2 October was baptized John, son of Meredith ap Howell Merdd John William.
On 5 October was bnried Margaret vz Thomas John Merdd.
On 7 November was baptized William, son of Thomas William Thomas David, of Garth-
breugny, who (Thomas Lewis, Clerk, curate there, then leaving the cure of the souls
of the same parish) is inducted to this Church, being immersed at baptism.
On 8 December was baptized Juhauna, daughter of Maurice ap Hoell, overseer (vilKci) of
Walter Havarde, gentleman.
On 14 December was baptized John, son of Jevan Watkin ap Jevan John William.
1624 (25.)
On 1 January was buried Thomas ap Thomas William.
On 13 February was baptized Alice, daughter of Joan Richarde, son in law of Rice ap
Richarde.
On 20 February was baptized Jaena, daughter of Jevan John Jevan DD.
1 March was buried Christopher John Edwarde iu this Church of Talaughthy.
On 20 March was buried Jaena, daughter of Jevau John Jevau DD.
22 April was buried in this church Owen John David.
On 23 April was buried John, son of John Howell DD Vrych, son iu law of Jevan Jenka.
alias Tregaron.
On 11 May was buried Alice vz William John William.
On 19 May was buried David William ap William.
On 22 May matrimony was solemnised between Howell David Gwalter and Alice John
Watkin.
On 2 June matrimony was solemnised between Howell Walter Powell and Gwenlliana
Thomas in the Church of Llanthew, Reinard Morice, Clerk, officiating.
On 4 June was baptized William, son of William Watkin John DD.
On 5 June was buried the same William, son of William Watkin John DD.
21 June was baptized John, son of John ap Howell DD vrych, son in law of Jevan Jenkin,
alias Tregaron, Walter Lewis, Clerk, officiating.
On 27 June matrimony was solemnised between William William (sic) Walter and
Matilda Thomas Edward, of Llanthew, in this Church of Talaughthy.
(101)
On 20 July was buried Katherine vz Jevan, wife of Edward John Edwarde.
On 16 October was baptized Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas David.
On 8 April was buried Jevan Jenkin, alias Tregaron.
On 9 April in the feast of Easter was buried John, son of David , of Glascombe.
On 22 April was buried in this Church John David of the parish of Llanthew.
On 23 April was buried John, son of John Howell David vrych, son in law of Jevan
Tregaron.
On 6 June was baptized Juhanna, daughter , as Katherine Jenkin, wife of Thomas
William, mason, deceased, affirmed.
On 5 August was buried Juhanna, daughter of - — , by Katherine Jenkin, the wife of
Thomas William, mason, deceased.
On 9 September was baptized Watkin, son of John Watkin ap Jevan John William,
of Pante.
On 23 September was baptized Juhauna, daughter of William ap lies, of Gwayn y geifer,
in this Church of Talaughthy.
On 27 September was baptized Henry, putative son of Meredith David, as Elizabeth
Lewis Morgan of Gwayn y geifer, mother of the same asserts, in this Church of
Talaughthy ; Harry David Jevan John, Margaret Jevan John, being sponsors for the
same.
On 30 September was buried Juhanna, daughter or Rice ap Holl David.
On 8 November was baptized Elizabeth, daughter of Howell ap Jevan.
On 7 December was buried Henry, putative son of Meredith David, as Elizabeth Lewis
Morgan, mother of the same, asserts.
1626 (27).
On 17 January was buried Elizabeth, daughter of James Thomas Jeukin.
On 7 February matrimony was solemnised between Richard Lewis Morgan and Matilda
Philippe Morgan, in the Church of Llanthew.
On the same day was baptized Jaena, daughter of John ap John Edwarde.
On 18 March was baptized Margaret, daughter of Jevan \Vatkiu ap Jevan John William.
1627.
On 5 May was baptized WilRam, son of Howell David ap Jevan.
On 20 May was baptized John, son of John David Thomas, of Fedwfach, on Trinity
Sunday.
On 22 May matrimony was solemnised between Rice Thomas and Jaena Lewis, of
Maesmynys.
On 1 June was buried John, putative son of David , of , as Gwenllian John
James, mother of the same, asserts.
On 7 July was baptized Joneta, daughter of William VVatkiu John David.
On last day of July was baptized Jaena, daughter of Howell DD G waiter.
On 27 November Maurice Griffith was carried from this parish to the church of Llanthew,
and lies buried there.
On the same day was baptized Thomas, son of Howell Thomas Poll DD ap Res, of
Llandevalle, in the church of Talaughthy.
(102)
1627 (28).
On 2 February, in the feast of the Purification of the Blessed Mary the Virgin, was buried
William James.
On 11 February was baptized Margaret, daughter of Meredith Hoell Merdd.
On 23 February matrimony was solemnised between Thomas John and Gwenllian William,
of Llanstephan, in Co. Eadnor.
On 23 March was baptized Juhanna, daughter of Thomas Morice, of Llanvillo, in this
Church.
No date.
On 11 September was buried Thomas Lewis, Clerk, rector of Talaughthy.
On 4 November was baptized Joneta, daughter of William Watkin, of this village of
Talaughthy.
On 26 December was buried Margaret vz Jevan.
On 30 January was baptised Maria, daughter of Thomas ap Thomas, of Kaer byrddy.
On 11 February was buried Katlierine vz Rice ap Richard de Arwgoed.
On 5 March was baptized Katherine, daughter of Richard Watkin ap Jevan.
On 10 March was baptized Thomas, son of Thomas Powell.
1628.
On 24 March was baptized Elenor, daughter of Alice John James.
1629.
On 8 April was buried Edward, sou of David Thomas DD.
On 12 April was baptized Nest, daughter of Jevan Philippe.
On 20 April was baptized Gwenlliana, daughter of Richard Watkin ap Jevan.
On 11 July was buried William James.
On last day of July was baptized Evan, son of Richard Lewis Morgan.
On 11 August was buried Evan, son of Richard Lewis.
On 21 September was baptized Izabelle, daughter of William Watkin.
On 27 October was baptized Philip, sou of John Philippe Bevan, of Trosgoed.
On 13 December was baptized John, sou of Morgan John William.
On 27 January (1628-9) was buried Thomas Watkin Thomas ap Res.
On 16 February was buried Katherine, daughter of Gladys (Gwladissa) William, alias
Vawr.
On 17 February was baptized Katherine, daughter of Thomas Davyd.
On 30 May was buried John, son of Walter Lewis, Clerk, curate of Llanvillo.
On the same day was baptized Lewis, son of Richard Lewis Morgan,
On 14 June was baptized Roger, son of Edward Havarde.
On 20 June was buried William, son of Howell Davyd ap Jevan.
On 14 July was baptized David, son of Thomas ap Thomas.
On 15 September was buried Lewis, son of Richard Lewis Morgan.
On 6 October matrimony was solemnised between Howell Havarde, gentleman, and
Margaret vz Owen Walter.
On 8 October matrimony was solemnised between William Walter of Cantref, and
Elizabeth David Gwalter, of this parish.
(103)
On 20 October matrimony was solemnised between Lewis ap Richard and Isabella Res
Jevan DD.
On 10 December was baptized Edward, son of Howell Bevan.
On 21 February was baptized Gwenllian, daughter of John William ap Res, junior.
On 28 February, Sunday, was baptized Rice, son of John Bichard Jenkin, son-in-law of
Eice ap Richard.
On 10 April, Saturday, was baptized David, son of John William ap Res, senior.
On 1 June, Tuesday, was buried Joneta Lewis, wife of Roger Thomas ap Jevan, in the
Church of Garthbrengny.
On 13 June matrimony was solemnised between Thomas Thomas (sic) Jenkin and Eliza-
beth John, of Glasbury, in the Church of Talaughthy.
After the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Mary the Virgin,
A.D. 1631.
On 3 April was baptized Thomas, son or Thomas ap Eice Higil (?).
On 28 May was baptized Alice, daughter of Howell David ap Jevan.
On 5 June matrimony was solemnised between David Philipp and Agnes vz John in the
Church of Talaughthy.
On G June matrimony was solemnised between David John ap David and Isabella vz
Thomas.
On 9 June was buried Elizabeth vz John, wife of Walter Lewis, Clerk Rector.
On 10 July was buried Joneta, daughter of William Watkin, of this village of Talaughthy.
On 17 September was buried Matilda vz Jevan.
On 11 October was buried Ali Robert.
On 25 December was baptized Elizabeth, daughter of John Parri, of this village of
Talaughthy.
On 9 March was buried Alice vz Howell David, of Llwy Kynocke.
On 11 March was buried Margery vz Morgan, wife of John ap Jevan, of Pante.
After the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Mary the Virgin,
1632.
On 5 May was baptized John, son of Jevan Philipp.
On 5 August was baptized Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas ap Thomas, of Kaer biirddy.
On 16 August was baptized Joneta, daughter of Howell David ap Walter.
On 26 August was baptized Jaena, daughter of William Watkin, of this village of
Talaughthy.
On 1 September was baptized Thomas, son of David John David.
On 5 October was baptized Christopher, son of John John (sic) Edwarde.
On 3 November was baptized Jevan, son of Howell ap Jevan.
On 6 November was baptized William, son of John William ap Res.
On 27 November was buried William, son of John William.
On 27 November was buried Jevan Philippe, of Kaer Bwla.
On 7 January was buried Elizabeth vz Thomas, wife of David ap Owen.
On 30 January was buried Juana, daughter of James Thomas Jenkin.
On 18 February was buried Matilda vz Howell.
(104)
On 13 March was buried Morgan Thomas Lawrence.
On 10 July was buried Elizabeth, daughter of Lewis Morgan.
On 11 July was baptized Watkin, son of Richard Watkin.
On 11 September was baptized Philip, son of Thomas Powell.
On 1 4 "December was buried Matilda vz Robert.
After the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Mary the Virgin,
1634.
On 5 May was buried Jevan Thomas, of Cefeu Meohlais.
On 15 May was baptized Maria, daughter of Howell Havarde.
On 19 May was buried Griffin ap Jevan.
On 31 May was buried Rice ap Richarde.
Ou 18 October matrimony was solemnised between David Watkin and Alice vz William.
On 19 October was buried John ap Res Morgan.
On 22 January was buried Jaena Vaughan, wife of Rice Havarde.
After the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Mary the Virgin,
1635.
On 3 June was baptized Margaret, daughter of William Watkin,
On 23 June was baptized Elizabeth vz Thomas.
On 2 February was buried Margaret vz Meredith.
On 5 February was buried William David.
On 15 February was buried Howell David.
On 3 (sic) February was buried Izabella vz Howell.
On 3 March was baptized William, son of David Watkin.
On 27 February was buried Roger, son of Edward John.
On 27 March was buried John ap Edward.
On 28 March was baptized Howell, son of Jevau ap Howell.
After the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Mary the Virgin,
A.D. 1636.
On 4 July was buried Thomas Jenkin.
On 6 August was buried John John (sic) Edward.
On 20 August was buried Lewis Pricharde.
On 21 August was buried Margaret vz David.
On 10 September was baptized Joneta vz John.
On 23 September was buried Joneta vz John.
On 28 September was buried Meredith Powell.
On 24 January was baptized James Thomas.
On 4 February was buried Joneta vz William.
On 28 February was baptized Katherine vz William.
On 6 March was buried William David.
On 8 March was baptized John David,
On 12 March was buried John David.
On 23 March was buried Alice vz Meredith,
(105)
After the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Mary the Virgin,
1637.
On 16 April was buried Matilda vz William.
On 1 May was buried Elizabeth vz John.
On 6 May was buried Elizabeth vz William.
On 9 July matrimony was solemnized between Roger John and Walbife.
On 10 July was buried Joneta vz Thomas.
On 13 July matrimony WHS solemnised between William Meredith (?) and Margaret (?) vz
Thomas.
(Part of this leaf is cut away, so that it is impossible to be sure of these names.)
On 2 November was buried Gladys vz William.
On 28 November was baptized Katherine vz Kichardc.
On 12 December was buried Jane vz Edward.
On 12 November was buried Gwenllian vz Watkin.
On 23 December was baptized Watkin, son of David.
On 1 January was buried Watkin ap Res.
After the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Mary the Virgin,
A.D. 1638.
On 1 April was buried Joneta vz John Watkin.
On 3 October was buried Watkin William Watkin.
On 6 November was buried Jane vz Thomas.
On 27 October was baptized David Philippe.
On 8 November was baptized Jane, daughter of John William.
On 7 January was buried Katherine vz David.
On 28 January was baptized Gwenllian vz David.
After the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Mary the Virgin,
A.D. 1640.
On 21 May was baptized James, son of Thomas Lewis.
On 8 October was buried Gwenllian vz Thomas.
On 25 October was baptized Anna, daughter of Thomas ap Jevan.
On 1 January was baptized Thomas, sou of David Watkiu.
On 8 January was buried William Thomas Jenkin.
On 20 February matrimony was solemnised between Howell Walter and Elizabeth vzJohn.
After the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Mary the Virgin,
A.D. 1641
On '21 April was baptized ... son of Edward Morgan.
On ... May was buried Gwenllian vz David.
On ... June was baptized Katherine, daughter of ... Meredith.
On ... September was buried . . . Walter.
On ... October was buried . . . David.
VOL. II. P
(10(5)
On ... November, "William, son of Henry William.
On 12 February matrimony was solemnised between Jevan Thomas and Jane vz Watkin.
On . . . March was baptized Griffith
(The last page of the Register is torn and in very bad condition.)
NOTES.
There are a few interesting entries in this Register : On the 9th June, 1612, a little
boy, aged two, hiding in the race of the corn mill, unknown to his father, was drawn in by
the water of the pond, and drowned in the mill stream.
On 7 February, 1613 (14) a marriage was solemnised, and the day was described
as uno dierum sEgyptiacarum, meaning on one of the days considered unlucky by the
Egyptians, and which days were specially noticed by the monks in pre-Reformation days ;
and the practice was continued by the clergy after the Reformation. This expression
occurs again at a marriage solemnised on 16 October, 1614.
A marriage took place, it is recorded, on 12 October, 1611, multa nocte (after dark, or
literally, much or far in the night).
This Register also contains lists of churchwardens — 1611 to 1629 : The churchwardens'
accounts for 1616 ; a list of the church books of Talaughthy in 1623 ; an allotment of parts
of the churchyard in 1618; the churchwardens' accounts for 1617; and a note of trees
planted in the churchyard on 3rd March, 1623.
The number of putative children entered is remarkable.
The case of Virginia gave the Churchwardens much trouble and expense, being heard
in the Consistory Courts of Worcester and Gloucester. The nature of the case is not stated.
There are a great many entries from Waunygeifr. Since the enclosure of the Common
of that name in the parish of Llanthew in 1814, the only place so called to-day is the hill
on the main road by Penisha Waun. Probably the name was used to denote all persons
living round the Common in the olden time.
The person called "Tregaron" may have been a miner from Cardiganshire, employed
in working the old copper mines.
TALLAUGHTHY, THE 29ra OF SEPTEMBER IN THE YEERE OF
OUR LORD, 1653.— (Register Book II).
A REGISTER BOOKE MADE BY DAVID EDWARD, 1653. .
COMMONWEALTH, 1640—1660.
A Register booke of all marriadges, Birthes, and burialls, in Tallachdduy, since the feast
day of St. Michaell the Archangell last past, beinge the 29th of September in the
yeere of our Lord God According to the Oomputacion of the Church of England, 1653.
1653.
— October, Philipp, the son of John Lewis, was born.
1653 (4).
2 January, William, the son of James Parry, was born.
14 January, Margarett vergh Jevan was buried in Tallachdduy.
10 January, John, the son of Watkin John, was born.
25 January, William, the son of Watkin William, was born.
(107.)
13 February, [sabell Jevan Willitn was buried.
17 March, John, the son of Edward Havard, of Carbyrddy, gent., was born.
19 March, Margarett, the daughter of Howell Meredith, was born.
1654.
7 May, John, the son of David John David, was buried.
- May, Sible, the daughter of Howell Thomas, miller, of Velin Vach, was born.
21 June, James and Jonett, son and daughter of Richard William, were born.
1 7 August, James, the son of Thomas Lewis, was buried.
29 September, Mary, the daughter of William Meredith, was born.
1654 (5).
20 January, Margarett, the daughter of Thomas William, was born.
15 January, Thomas Jones and Margery David, of Crickadarne, were married before
Wm. Walking, Esq.
26 January, John William Frees was buried.
30 January, Jonett Phillipp, widow, was buried.
23 February, Margarett, the daughter of Richard Evan David, was born.
Anno Domini 1655.
17 April, David Thomas was buried in Llandevalley.
20 April, Wm., the sou of Phillip William, was born.
8 May, Wm., the son of Phillip William, was buried.
25 April, Elizabeth, the daughter of Thomas Lewis, was born.
— April, Sisly John David, widow, was buried.
31 October, Harry, the son of Roes Havard, gent., was born.
2 December, Jane, the daughter of Thomas Jones, was born.
7 December, Evan, the son of Richard Evan DD was born.
9 December, Margarie David, the wife of Thomas Jones, was buried.
" Rees William and Glwadis verch John was solemnised the 22nd day of December, 1655,
before mee in the presence of
JEFFREY LEWIS, ALD.
John Jones,
Watkin Powell,
Thomas Watkin,
David Frees, > Witnesses
John Herbert and
Thomas Morgan,
1656 (6).
15 February, Margarett David, the wief of Phillipp Evan, was buried.
Anno Domini 1656.
8 April, Ales Havard, Pauper, was buried.
11 April, Rees Prichard, miller, was buried.
22 May, Edward, the son of John Frees Lloyd, was buried.
(108)
John Phee Evan, of Gweuthowr, and Phillip William, of Llandevalley, 1655.
LEWIS WATKINS.
13 July, Mallt David, widow, was buried.
19 August, William, the son of Thomas Vaughan, of the Town of Brecon, gent., was
buried.
9 September, Griffith, the sou of Richard William, was bom.
14 September, Jane, the daughter of Phee Jevan Phillip, was bom.
21 September, Johan, the daughter of Watkin John, was born.
26 October, Howell, the son of Edward Powell, was born.
" The same Howell was buried the 28th of October, 1656."
28 December, Griffith, the son of Richard William, was buried.
1656 (7).
11 January, Izabell Thomas David was buried.
28 February, Howell, the son of Thomas Williams, of Caerbyrdduy, was born.
Anno Domini 1657.
31 March, William, the son of Richard William, was buried.
4 May, William Watkin was buried.
David Phee and Jane Johnes were intermarried together the sixth day of May, 1657, By
and before William Watkins, Esq., and in the presence of the witnesses hereunder
named : — Wm. DD and Thomas Watkin, of Garthbrengie ; Phee Evan, Cristopher
Johnes, John Bevan, Alee Johnes, and Gwenllian Thomas, of Tallachdduy.
William Parry David and Margarett Walter were intermaryed together the 18th day of
July, 1657, By and before Thomas Vaughan, Esq., Baylief of the Towne of Brecon,
and in the presence of the witnesses subscribed : — Roger Havard of Llanvillo, William
Parry of Llaudevalley, Edward Jones of Tallaehddy, John Havard, and Thomas Havard
of Llanywerne.
DAVID EDWARD, Register then.
29 August, Elizabeth, the daughter of John Prees Lloyd, was born.
2 December, the son of William Herbert, of Brecon, mercer, was buried.
1657 (8).
3 January, Richard, the son of Watkin William, was born.
5 March, Elizabeth, the daughter of Rees Havard, was born.
Anno Domini 1658.
25 March, Thomas and William (" beinge Twynnes"), the sons of Richard William,
were born.
9 May, William, the son of William Meredith, was born.
The same William was buried the 17th of May.
29 May, Thomas, the son of Richard William, was buried.
5 June, Margarett, the daughter of David Phillipp, was born.
(109)
John ap Evan and Gwenllian Thomas, both of the parish of Tallachddy, were Lawfully
intermaried together the 10th day of June, 1658, By and before William Watkius of
Sheophouse, Esq., and in the presence of the witnesses hereunto subscribed : — Walter
Havard and Elizabeth Havard of Llanigon, Edward Jones and Elizabeth Thomas of
Tallachddy.
DAVID EDWARDS, Regr. there.
10 November, Ales, the daughter of Edward Powell, was born.
Thomas William Thomas and Margarett David were intermaried together the 15th day of
January, 1658, by Lewis Watkius, Alderman, Esq., and in the presence of the
witnesses hereuuder written : — Wm. Jones and Marie his wife, Wm. Jou. Win. of
Tallachddy, Watkin Evan of Langorse, and David Edwards, Register there.
David John Wm. and Jane Morgan were intermaried the 29th of January, 1658, by and
before Lewis Watkius, Alderman, Esq., of the Towne of Brecon, and iu the presence of
the witnesses subscribed, vizt. : — Walter Bevan of Brecon, dyer, and Gladis his wife,
John Morgan, and Elizabeth Price, spinster.
1658 (9).
12 March, Jennett James, widow, was buried.
15 March, Ales, the daughter of Edward Powell, was buried.
Anno Domini 1659.
(The following entries are written in Latin.)
25 March, John ap Evan Watkin was buried.
20 April, Ales, the daughter of John Bevan Phillipp, was born.
THE RESTORATION.— REIGN, CHARLES II.— 1660.
After the Feast of the Incarnation of the Lord, 1660, at which time
Walter Jones, Rector of Tallackdhy, was restored.
6th December was baptized Philip, son of David Phillipp, by Jane his wife.
9 December, Elizabeth, daughter of David William, was buried.
1660 (61).
29 January was baptized William, son of Watkin son Watkin of Pante, by Elenor his
wife.
2 February were baptized Henry, Elizabeth, and Rachel, son and daughters of Rice
Havard and Anne his wife.
5 March was baptized William, son of Jevan Tho. Phee by Jane his wife.
After the Feast of the Incarnation of the Lord, 1661.
27 March was buried William, son of Jevan Tho. Phee.
23 May, which is the day of the Ascension of the Lord, was baptized William, son of Jevan
David by Alice his wife.
18 June was baptized Winifred, daughter of John Havard, of Llanywern, by Elizabeth
his wife.
25 June was buried Rice Havard, son of John Havard.
7 July was baptized Richard, son of Watkin William by Gwenlliana his wife.
4 August was baptized Marie, daughter of William David by Jane his wife.
(110)
11 August was buried John Lewis.
24 November was baptized Jevan, son of Philip ap Jevan, of Oaerbulo.
•22 December was baptized Joneta, daughter of John John.
1661 (2).
1 February, Maria, Martha, Joneta, and Catherine, daughters of Christopher Jones, were
baptized.
3 February, Goditha, daughter of William Havard, of Trosdre, was baptized.
6 February, Johana, daughter of Philip William, was baptized.
18 February, Thomas David was buried.
12 March, William Meredith was buried.
17 March, Richard Watkin was buried.
17 March, Joneta, daughter of John John, was buried.
WALTER JONES, Clerk, Rector there.
PHILIP JEVAN THOMAS, ) Wardeng
HOWELL MEREDITH. J
After the Feast of the Incarnation of the Lord, 1662.
27 March, William, son of David Phillipp, was baptized.
30 March, which was Easter Day, Jonette, wife of John Watkin, of the parish of
Llandevalley, was buried.
2 April, Alicia vz John, wife of Philip Jevan Phee, of Caer bwlo, was buried.
13 April, Anna, daughter of Hugh Body, was buried.
4 June, Margaret, Daughter of William Jones, was batized.
27 July, John Prosser of the one part, and Gladissa Jones of the other part, were joined
together in matrimony.
27 August, Thomas Phillipp was buried.
24 October, Gwenlliana vz Richard, wife of Watkiu William, was buried.
26 October, Margaretta, daughter of Thomas William Bowen, was baptized.
4 November, 1662, Richard, son of Watkin William, was buried.
26 November, Jeukin Morgan and Elizabeth vz John Phee, of Llaudevalley, were joined
together in matrimony.
14 December, Jevan, son of John ap Jevan, was baptized.
27 December, Gladissa, daughter of Howell Thomas, of Alexanderstone, was baptized.
1662, Joana, daughter of John Jones, of Cefenygarth, was "patissata" (? baptized).
1662 ( 3).
I January, Walter, son of Rice Havard, was baptized.
8 February, Maria, daughter of Thomas William, of Caerbyrthy, was baptized.
II February, Richard Walter was buried.
2 1 February, Lleikya, daughter of John Williams, of Penallt ronw (?) was baptized.
After the feast of the Incarnation of the Lord Jesus Christ, 1663.
WALTER JOHNS, Rector.
WILLIAM DAVID and WILLIAM PRISE,
Wardens in the last year.
(Ill)
31 March, Johanna, daughter of John John, of Beven yf garth, was baptized.
28 April, Jevan, son of Philipp Jevan Phee, of Caer bwle, was buried.
28 May, Elizabeth, daughter of David William Frees, was baptized.
8 June, Catherine vz Rees, widow, was buried.
19 July, Isabella vz Rees, widow, was buried.
8 August, Anna, daughter of Thomas Watkin Thomas, was baptized.
14 August, William Lewis, son of Walter Lewis, late Rector of Tallackthy, was buried.
16 August, William, son of Thomas William Thomas, was baptized.
23 August, Elizabeth, daughter of Morgan Thomas, miller, was baptized.
1663 (4).
31 January, Maria, daughter of rlowell Thomas, was baptized.
18 February, Edward, son of James James, was baptized.
16 March, Evan, son of Edward rlowell, was baptized.
WALTER JONES, Rector there.
EDWARD HOWELL, ~| ,,7
THOMAS LEWIS, '}W*rden8.
After the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Mary the Virgin,
in the year of the Incarnation of the Lord, 1664.
1 May, Maudea, daughter of Watkin John, was baptized.
19 May, which is Ascension Day, Lewis (Ludovicus), son of Philip William Phee, was
baptized.
The same Lewis (Ludovicus) was buried the 29th day of May, which is the day of
Pentecost.
2 June, Gwenlliana, the wife of Jenkin Frees, miller, was buried.
30 June, Joneta, daughter of William Jones, was baptized.
28 August, Jonete. daughter of William David, was baptized.
10 November, William Watkin and Elizabeth Watkin, of Tallathy, were joined together in
matrimony.
13 November, Alicia vz Howell was buried.
20 November, Walter William, of Llandevalley, and Elenora Frees, of Llanvihangell
Abeugtressin (?), were joined together in matrimony.
30 November, Thomas ap Thomas Jenkin was buried.
1664 (5).
9 January, Howell ap Jevan was buried.
19 January, David John and Maudea vz Rosser were joined together in matrimony.
3 February, Walter, son of James James, was buried.
11 March, Joneta, daughter of David Phillipp, was baptized.
12 March, Evan, son of William Watkin, was baptized.
14 March, Thomas, son of John ap Jevan Phillip, was baptized.
PHILIP EVANS, | ,IT
JOHN PROSSER, ( WarJens-
(112)
After the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Mary the Virgin,
in the year of the Incarnation of the Lord, 1665.
WAT JONES, Rector.
23 May, Howell Thomas, miller, was buried.
28 May, John, son of James James, was baptized.
23 October, Watkin David, of Tallachthy, and Ursilla Davis, of Boughawd, in the county
of Radnor, were joined together in matrimony.
19 November, Elizabeth, reputed daughter of Thomas Prichard, of the county of Hereford,
was baptized.
Anno Domini 1661.
(Copied on the back of one of the pages of the Register.)
Collected towards a great losse by fire that happened to be in the Towne of Southwold,
alias Southbag, in the County of Snffolke, the 2oth day of April, the llth yeare of his
Majesties raigne, the summe of 2s.
WAT JONES, Minister.
PHILLIP JEVAX, ) w ,
HOWKLL MEREDITH, } v
WILLIAM MEREDITH, Collector for the poore.
Collected towardes a great losse by fire that happened to be in the Towne of great
Drayton in the County of Sallop, the tenth day of August, in the third yeare of his
Majesties Raigne, the summe of Is. 6d.
WAT JONES, Minister.
PniLLirr JEVAN. I ,,r ,
HOWELL MEREDITH, } Wardens-
WILLIAM MEREDITH, collector for the poore.
Collected at Tallaughthy towardes a losse by fire at a towne called Ilmestre in the
County of Summerset eighteene pence.
WATT JONES, Minister.
PHILLIP JEVAN. > „,
TT T.r v Churchwardens.
HOWKLL MEREDITH,}
WILLIAM MERUDITH, collector for ye poore.
Collected "towardes a great losse by fire hapeninge at Oxenford, anno 1641, the
summe of 2s.
WAT JONES, Minister.
PuiLLii'p JEVAN. | r,,
HOWELL MEREDITH, } Churchwardens.
WILLIAM MEREDITH, Collector for the poore.
Collected towardes a losse by fire for Ellenor Davis, of Llanguille (?) in ye County of
Radnor, the surame of Sis.
WAT JONES, Minister.
PHILLIP JEVAN, ) -,,
HOWELL MEREDITH, } Churchwardens.
1665.
3 December, Watkin, son of Thomas William, was baptized.
(113)
1665 (6).
10 January, Jane, daughter of John John, was baptized.
1 February, Watkin, son of Thomas William, was buried.
15 February, Sara, daughter of Rice Havard, was baptized.
2 March, John, son of James James, was buried.
14 March, Edward, son of William Jones, was baptized.
WAT JONES, Rector. JOHN AP JEVAN, ) ,,, ,
' } Wardens.
JOHN AP JOHN. ]
1666.
10 April, Watkin, son of Thomas Watkin, was baptized.
11 July, Maria, daughter of Howell Thomas, miller, was buried.
12 August, Johanna, daughter of Watkin John, of Pante, was buried.
11 September, John Meredith was buried.
11 September, David John Dl) and Joneta vz David were joined together in matrimony.
1666 (7).
15 February, Watkin, son of William David, was baptized.
18 March, David, son of David Jones, was buried.
WAT JONES, Rector. RICE HAVARD, 7 w ,
WILLIAM JONES, j V
1667.
12 April, Hester, daughter of Thomas William, was baptized.
13 April, Thomas William of the one part, and Jane William of the other part, were
joined together in matrimony.
25 April, David John was buried.
27 April, John, son of John ap Jevan, was baptized.
11 May, Jane, daughter of Thomas William Thomas, was baptized.
27 July, Charles Jones, of Llauhamlach, of the one part, and Joneta Havard, of Tallachthy,
of the other part, were joined together in matrimony.
4 August, David, son of Thomas Jones, was baptized.
14 July, Thomas ap Jevan, of the one part, and Christiana William, of the other part, were
joined together in matrimony.
13 October, Maria, daughter of Philipp William, was baptized.
17 October, Alicia, daughter of Edward Howell, was baptized.
29 October, Margareta, wife of Thomas William Thomas, was buried.
6 November, Jane, the aforesaid daughter of Thomas William Thomas, was buried.
1667 (8).
16 January, Jane, the daughter of Richard Jevan Watkin, was buried.
19 January, Jane, the daughter of William Jones, was baptized.
2 February, John, son of Thomas Watkin, was baptized.
WAT JONES, Rector. PHILIP WILLIAM, Warden.
VOL. n. Q
(114)
1668.
7 June, Jane, daughter of Watkin William Phee, was buried.
18 June, Watkin, son of Charles Jones, was baptized.
25 June, Sara, daughter of Rice Havard, was buried.
8 July, Alicia, daughter of Thomas David, was buried.
16 July, Edward Jones, of the one part, and Margaret David, of the other part, were joined
together in matrimony.
8 August, Jane, daughter of David Phillip, by Jane his wife, was baptized.
5 September, Anna, daughter of John ap John, was baptized.
5 November, Johanna John William was buried.
10 November, Catherine, daughter of Christopher Jones, was buried.
25 November, Margaretta, the wife of James Thomas Jenkin, was buried.
7 December, Jane, the daughter of David Phillipp, was buried.
1668 (9).
10 January, Sibilla, the daughter of Thomas ap Jevan Thomas, was baptized.
WAT JONES, Rector. THOMAS WATKIN, I ,„ ,
MORGAN DAVID. } Wardens'
1669.
17 April, Margareta, daughter of Thomas Lewes, was buried.
26 April, John Watkin ap Jevau, of Pante, was buried.
€ May, John, son of Thomas Watkin, was buried.
30 July, William, son of John ap Jevan Phee, was baptized.
25 July, Alice, daughter of William David, was baptized.
The said Alice was buried the 7th day of August in the said year.
20 October, Walter, son of Edward Jones, was baptized.
The said Walter was buried the 2 1st day of November in the said year.
1669 (70).
4 February, Maria, daughter of William (blank), was baptized.
6 February, Maria, daughter of James James, was baptized.
12 February, Benjamin, son of Rice Havard, was baptized.
15 February, Maria, daughter of David Phillip, was baptized.
1 3 March, Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas Watkin, was baptized.
WAT JONES, Rector. WATKIN AP JEVAN. I w
THOMAS WILLIAM MEREDITH, f
1670.
31 August, John Andrew was buried.
7 October, Roger, son of Howell Morgan, was buried.
(115)
1670 (71).
22 January, Anna, daughter of William David, was baptized.
18 February, Elenora, daughter of Edward Jones, was baptized.
19 February, John, son of Thomas Jevan, was baptized.
After the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Mary the Virgin,
in the year of the Incarnation of Our Lord Jesus Christ, 1671.
WALTER JONES, Kector. WATKIN WILLIAM,) .
DAVID PHILLIP, f Wardens.
26 March, Elenora, daughter of Edward Jones, was buried.
29 March, Alicia, daughter of John John, was baptized.
29 April, Alicia, the wife of Howell ap Jevan, was buried.
28 May, Maria, daughter of Watkin John by Elenora his wife, was baptized.
On the same day was baptized William, son of David Edward by Alice his wife.
WATKIN JONES, )
John William, of Trosgood, of the one part, and Anna Phillip of Tallachthy, of the other
part, were joined together in matrimony the 13th day of July, 1671.
William John, of Llandevalley, of the one part, and Joneta John of the other part, were
joined together in matrimony the 18th day of July, 1671.
12 November, Jevan, son of William Jones, was baptized.
On the same day was buried Maria, the daughter of Maria Watts.
1671 (2).
11 February, Sara, daughter of Rice Havard, was baptized.
Jenkin William, of Llandevalle, of the one part, and Jane Watkin of Tallachthy, of he
other part, were joined together in matrimony the 17th day of February, 1671 (72).
23 February, John, the son of Gwenlliana, was baptized.
21 March, Phillip, son of John ap Jevan, was baptized.
On the same day was baptized Maria, daughter of Thomas Watkin.
After the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Mary the Virgin,
in the year of the Incarnation of Our Lord Jesus Christ, 1672.
28 April, William, son of John William, was baptized.
3 May, Thomas Lewis was buried.
9 June, Johanna, daughter of William John by Joneta John, was baptized.
22 June, Johanna, the wife of Christopher Jones, was buried.
25 June, David, son of Edward Jones, was baptized.
23 July, Janet David, widow, was buried.
12 September, Thomas Watkiu was buried.
October, William Thomas, junior, was buried.
(116)
1672 (3).
11 January, William Prise was buried.
25 January, Matilda John, the wife of Andrew John, miller, was buried.
1 March, Alicia John was buried.
After the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Mary the Virgin,
in the year of the Incarnation of Our Lord Jesus Christ, 1673.
WALTERUS JONES, Rector. THOMAS WILLIAM,
T T~»
JOHN PROSSER,
20 April, Thomas, son of James Thomas, was baptized.
13 May, John . . servant of William David, was buried.
14 May, Morgan David, miller, was buried.
18 May, Watkin, son of William David and Sibilla, daughter of Thomas Bevan, were
buried.
8 June, Alicia, daughter of John John, was buried.
14 June, Maudea, daughter of Edward Powell, was baptized.
23 July, Theophilus, putative son of Lewis Morgan by Elizabeth . . . was baptized.
25 July, Joneta William, widow, was buried.
The said Theophilus was buried the last day of August in the year aforesaid.
20 October, Evan William was buried.
1673 (4).
17 January, Edward, son of John ap John, was baptized.
14 March, Jane, daughter of John ap Jevan, was baptized.
22 March, James Thomas Jenkin was buried.
WAT JONES, Rector. JOHN WILLIAM, ) Tlr ,
JOHN PROSSER, } Warderl8'
20 December, 1673, David, son of Thomas Williams, was baptized.
After the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Mary the Virgin,
in the year of the Incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ, 1674.
25 March, Alicia John James was buried.
10 April, John, son of Thomas Watkin, was baptized.
25 July, Maudea, the wife of John Frees, was buried.
1675.
18 October, Jane, the wife of John John, of Ceven y garth, was buried.
On the 28th day of October, being the feast day of the Apostles Simon and Jude, 1675,
Sybilla, the daughter of Thomas ap Evan, was baptized.
19 November, Jonetta, the wife of William John, was buried.
5 February, 167^ (sic), Anna William Thomas was buried.
16 March, 167|, Walter, son of William Davids, was baptized.
After the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Mary the Virgin,
Anno Domini 1676.
30 March, Gwalter Bevan was buried.
21 April, Jane, the wife of Thomas Watkins, was buried.
Rice Price was buried on the 25th day of April in the year of Salvation, 1676.
widow
5 May, Alisia, the daughter of Evan Philip wife (sic) was buried.
10 May, Jonetta, daughter of Gwalter Jones, was buried.
4 June, Jane, daughter of Edward Jones, was baptized.
20 July, Susanna, daughter of Thomas Matthews, was baptized.
29 July, Jonetta David was buried.
20 December, Christiana, the wife of Thomas ap Evan, was buried.
Gwalter Jones, Hector of Tallachthy, was buried 15 December, 1676.
William Havard and Elizabeth Havard were joined together in matrimony on the day
consecrated to St. Andrew, Apostle and Martyr, last past.
1674. (sic.)
WM. DAVID, ) ,17. ,
ANDREW JONES. } Wardens-
On the 20th day of September, William Watkins took upon him the cure of souls in the
parish of Talackthy, in which time the following were baptized, joined together in
matrimony, and buried in Talachthy aforesaid.
2'2 October, John, son of William John, by Joneta his wife, was baptized.
24 November, David, son of Thomas William, by Maria his wife, was baptized.
31 December, Anna, the wife of Edward Havard, was buried.
1674 (5).
11 February, Gwenlliniana (Gwenlliana) William was buried.
25 February, William, son of Thomas Anthony, was baptized.
After the year of the Incarnation of Our Lord Jesus Christ, 1675.
1 April, Anna, daughter of William Watkins, was baptized.
29 April, Thomas, son of Walter Jones, Rector of Tallachthy, was buried.
30 May, Theophilus, son of Lewis Morgan, was baptized.
PHILIPP BEVAN and HOWELL MEREDITH, wardens in the last and in the
present year.
" Hie cunctis vir laudandus, laudabilis alter
Preestat in officio fidus uterque suo."
Dixit, W. J.
Anno Domini 1677.
14 February, Walter Jones, son of Edward Jones, was baptized in the church.
15 February, Morgan, son of Lewis Morgan, was baptized.
17 February, Gwenlliana, daughter of William Watkins, of the upper part of the parish,
son of Watkin William, was baptized.
(118)
22 May, "Watkin, son of William David, was buried.
15 December, Richard Parry and Elizabeth Jones were joined in matrimony.
•
1678.
1 May, Thomas Longe of Brecon and Anna Davies of Brecon were joined together in holy
matrimony.
18 August, Anna, daughter of Thomas Morgan, was baptized.
29 September, John Parry, son of Richard Parry, was baptized.
Thomas Powell was buried about October in the year aforesaid, i.e., 1678.
15 January, 1678 (79), Alice, the wife of Howell Meredith, was buried.
28 January, John Watkin and Joanna William, daughter of Philipp William, were joined
together in matrimony.
*
5 January, 1678, Maudleii, daughter of Griffith Kichard, was baptized.
17 May, 1679, Elizabeth (blank) was buried.
25 May, 1677, Thomas Morgan, Clerk, and Catherine William, daughter of William David,
were joined together in matrimony.
From the hour in which I was admitted Rector up to the present time, I have
written somewhat confusedly, but after this more accurate writings may be
expected.
1679. PHILLIPP WILLIAM, I Wardens
RICHARD PARRY, I
From the 28th day of May, 1679, all follows accurately.
Jane, daughter of Elizabeth Morgan, of Felyn y Troescoed, was baptized (date not given).
25 September, 16T9, Llyey, the wife of Watkin William, of Derwen goppa, was buried.
19 February, 1679 (80), David Cristopher was buried.
11 November, 1679, Lewis (Ludovicus), sou of Thomas Morgan, Clerk, Rector, was
baptized.
NOTES.
There is a break or gap in the entries, it will be seen, between the Register Books
Nos. 1 and 11, of nine years, from 1644 to 1G53. It was then just the close of the Civil
War, and the Church establishment was in great confusion, the clergy for the most part
having espoused the losing side. Apparently, in 1653 some order was established, and by
direction of the Commonwealth marriages were performed before the official of a neigh-
bouring town, and births and deaths were registered by some civil officer. But there were
no baptisms ! On the Restoration, in 1660, and the Rector having returned, the previous
order of things was resumed, and baptisms and marriages were performed by him, and are
so entered. Christopher Jones tried to make up for lost time by having his four daughters
baptized the same day. In the eyes of the party of Cromwell, the clergy, who had chosen
to take the part of Charles, the oppressor of public liberty, and the supposed upholder,
with his Queen Henrietta, of the "Old Lady of Babylon" (Rev. xvii, 5), could not be
readily forgiven, and were dealt with somewhat roughly for a short time. There were two
causes for the protracted and bitter Civil War : namely, the assertion of civil liberty, and
also of religious liberty and Protestantism.
(119)
Parish Terrier of Tallachduy.
DIOCES'S OF MENEVENSLS, 1720.
A True and perfect Terrier of all the Glebes, Lands, Meadows, Gardens, Orchards,
Houses, stocks, Implements, Tenements, and porcions of Teyths, due and payable in the
parish of Tallachdduy, in the County of Brecon, and the manner, custom and usage of
paying Teyths within the same parish for time immemoriall exhibited into the Registry of
the Archdeaconry of Brecon within the said Diocese, the day of , A.U. 1 720,
as ffolloweth (vizt).
IMPRIMIS. We the Minister, Churchwardens, and other parishioners of the said parish
of Tallachdduy, whose names are hereunto subscribed, do present, find, and Declare, that
there is a Parsonage House belonging to the Minister of our said Parish, containing therein
three Roomes in all (vizt.) Two below and one above stairs, and about a Quarter of an
Acre of Garden thereunto belonging. Also one Barn, consisting of Two Couples and a
Thresingfloor. Also a Room or place for a Horse and two other Beasts, adjoining to the
said Parsonage House. Also one other Close of Arrable Land, containing two Acres or
thereabouts, adjoining to the said Parsonage House and the Highway. Also one other
Close of Arrable Land containing four Acres or thereabouts, adjoining to the said Highway.
Also one other Close of Pasture Ground, containing about Thirty Acres, adjoining to the
said Highway and the other Glebe Land aforesaid. Also one other Close of arrable Laud
containing about four Acres, adjoining to the said Glebe Lands and the Lands of David
Williams, gent. Also one other Close of arable Land, containing about Two Acres,
adjoining to certain Lands called Tir y Pante. And lastly, one other Close of Arable Land
containing about five acres, adjoining to the Lands of the said David Williams and one
Phillip David. All the said Glebe Lands being situate, lying and being, within the said
parish of Tallaehdduy, in the County of Brecon aforesaid.
ITEM. We present, find, and say, that the Tenth stowcke, sheave, or Cock of all sorts
of Corn and Grain and the Tenth Cock of Hay and Clover, is yearly due and payable to
the Minister of our said parish ; and if the Number of Stowcks, sheaves, or Cocks amounts
to Seven and are under Ten in Number, there is due and payable to the Minister of the
said parish one stoweke, sheave, or Cock upon seven.
ITEM. We present and say that there is due and payable to the Minister of our said
parish from every Inhabitant and Landholder, and having Milch Cows feeding and
depasturing within the same parish, Eighteen Teyth Cheeses yearly, or Eighteen pence for
every Milch Cow att the choice and Eleccion of our Minister. And also the sume of
Twelve pence due to him for every Yarrow Cow.
ITEM. We present, say, and find That, there is a Teyth Lamb due to our Minister
upon every Ten Lambs, and if the number of Lambs be seven and under ten then the
same is to be bookt untill the Year following, and the parishioner then to have an Allow-
ance thereof ; or otherwise the parishioner shall pay the sume of Three Pence for each
Lamb above the Number of seven and under the Number of Ten, To the Minister of the
said parish att the Eleccion of the said Minister.
ITEM, that there is due and payable to our said Minister one Teyth Pig upon three
Pigs, but no Teyth due upon any Pigs of the first Litter, but the same are Teyth free.
There is herbage due and payable upon all pasture ground or latterrnath that is
grassed out of ye parish.
ITEM, that there is a Teyth Goose due upon three Geese.
ITEM, there is teytb. honey due and payable.
(120)
ITEM, that the Tenth fleece or pound of Wool of sheep feeding and depasturing and
shorn within the said parish, is due and payable to the Minister of our said parish, and the
same to be brought to and paid Yearly att the Church upon due (notice) thereof given to
the parishioners, And also that there is a Teyth fleece or pound of Wool upon every
seven fleeces or pounds of Wool.
ITEM, that there is a Teyth due and payable to the said Minister upon all flax and
Hemp, Turnips and Apples, growing Yearly within thfi said Parish. Also one Penny due
upon every Colt and three halfe pence upon every Filly cast within the said parish, and a
halfe penny for every Calfe oast and rear'd up within the said parish.
ITEM, That there is due for Easter offerings (vizt.) the summe of Threepence for every
Marryed Couple, and three halfe pence for every (parishioner above) the age of sixteen.
ITEM, there is teythe wood payable of all sorts of underwood, of what growth or age
soever they be.
ITEM, that there is due and payable to the said Minister the summe of Two Shillings
and six pence for marrying every Couple, the summe of Twelve Pence for Churching every
Woman after Child birth, and six Pence for burying every person in the said Church.
AND LASTLY, that there are Teyth Eggs due and payable within the said Parish, All
which premisses Contain the truth of all the said Glebe Lands and other ye said Teythe,
due and payable as aforesaid within ye said parish to the best of our knowledge, Under-
standing, and beliefe.
LE : MORGAN, Rect.
Phillip Daveis.
Wm. Davies.
Perambulation of Parish of Tallachduy.
May 16th, 1765.
The Persons whose names are hereto subscribed, being inhabitants and Householders
of the said Parish, went in Procession the Boundaries of the Lordship and Parish the day
and year above written.
We begun at the stump of a holly Tree, which was fallen by Mr. Fitzer, the Road-
maker, at the bottom of Glas y Velinvach, and down the River Dylas, and round the
Meadow called Ynis y Dyrn, all in the said Parish, up to the Coffer Gutter which is made
across the road leading towards Brecon. From thence up the Brook called Avon Cwm
(121)
Toyddwr to the Wast ground called Tallachduy Common, thence to the middle of the
meadow under Cwmtoyddwr House, By the Pine End of the said House up the same
Brook or Rivulet, to a Wood called Wrorn y Lugnant, turning to the Right along the
Hedge between the two Pieces of Land called Kae Saison and Kae y Drainen, to the High
Road leading from the Church of Tallachduy towards Llanthew Village. Then across that
Eoad to a Sallow Tree in the Eoad Hedge, and along the Hedge between the two pieces
called Kae Drainen and Kae Dinog to a turn in that Hedge, and to a stone under the
Crab Tree in the Hedge between Kae Drainen and Kae Keven, leaving about a quarter of
an Acre to the Eastward in Tallachduy. Then along the Hedge at the East End of Kae
Keven through the middle of Kae Garow to Kae Ddewy, and along the Hedge of the East
End thereof, down the West end of Kae Ddewy Wood to the Brook, and thence up the
Dingle to a stone at the well called Ffynnou Gilvach Wen Issa, and up the West Corner
of the Piece where the Well lies. Thence along the High Road thro' the Gate at Pen yr
heol Talwen, and keeping the Great Road over Garth Brengy Hill to Pen Rhieu Goch, and
on to a well called Ffynnou Wen uell, and leaving Peny Gaern a little to the left. Then
from Ffynnon well, or white well, down the stream to Kae Llether Cynnon, and thence to
the Eiver Dylas and down the said Brook or River by Wern Dyvog Mill, thence by
Troscoed Mill and thence down the said Brook to the Stump of the Holly Tree on the
bottom of Glas y Velin Vach, where we first began.
Fran. Lloyd, Rect. of Tallachn.
The mark of
John [I.] W. William, Churchwarden of the sd. Parish.
Jno. Gwynn, Steward to Edward Lewis, Esq., Lord of the Manor.
Thomas Williams, of Carburthy, aged 48 years.
The mark of
Wm. [0. V.] Powell of Tallachduy, aged sixty-eight years.
The mark of
Richard [N.] Williams, Parish Clerk, aged seventy-five.
The mark of
David [B.] Lewis of Dderweii Doppa, aged thirty-eight.
The mark of
Thomas [&] Williams, aged eighty years.
The mark of
William [0.] Morgan, aged fifty-two.
Manor of Talachdy.
COPY OF COURT LEET PRESENTMENTS, ETC., 1764 to 1843.
At the Court Leet and View of Frank Pledge of our Sovereign Lord the King, held
at the House of Benjamin Jones, Innholder, within the said Manor, upon Tuesday, the
Fifth day of June, 1764, before
JNO. GWYNN,
Gent., Steward.
VOL. II. R
(122)
THE NAMES OF THE JURY SWORN.
Thomas Williams. Thos. Price.
David Lewis. David Lloyd.
John Williams. William Williams.
John Gunter. Win. Watkins.
Howel Powel. William Parry.
Thos. Price. Peter Jones.
John Meredith. Richard Williams.
John Parry. Thos. Williams.
We, the Jurors impanelled and sworn to Inquire for our Sovereign Lord the King
and the Lord of the Manor, do present as follows : —
We present David Lloyd for keeping of a Goat, being a nuisance to the Inhabitants
of the said Manor.
We present David Lloyd for Incroaching a Peice of Ground, about the Quantity of a
quarter of an Acre, on the Comon called Myuith bach, to the damage of the Tennauta.
We present Thomas Price for incroaching a Small Peice of Land for a Garden on the
Comon called Mynith bach, to the damage of the Teunauts.
We present William Thomas for incroaching a Peice of Laud on the same Comon by
removing his Hedge to inclose the same, to the damage of the Tennants.
We present Mr. Lewis Williams, of Pewtoyn, for incroaching a Peice of Laud of the
Lord of the Manors in the Vynglass Wood.
We present a Heriot to the Lord of this Manor for a Tenem't of Land within this
Manor upon the Decease of the Rev'd Mr. Jenkin Lewis, And Seven Shillings in Lieu
thereof.
We present Esther Williams, Widow, for incroachiug a Peice of Land on the Comon
called Talachdy Comon, near Pen y Quarry, being a damage to the Tennants of this Manor.
We present the Gate on the High Way leading from the Mill called Weru Dyvog
Mill to the Comou called Talachduy Comou, at the Top of Heol y Vedw, to be out of
Repair, and that the same ought to be repaired by the Inhabitants of Derwen Toppa Vawr
and Derwen Toppa vach.
We present John Jones, of Llauthew, for Stopping of Antient Path Way leading from
the Comou called Comon Vach, thro Coed y Tilley towards the Pantey Farm.
We present Marg't Watkins, Widow, for not keeping a sufficient Fence between her
Lands and the Comon called Mynith Vach, and for Chasinge of the Cow of Thos. Price
with Dogs, to his damage.
(123)
1767.— MANOR OF TALAOHDUY.
TO WILLIAM POWEL, BAYLIFF OF THE SAID MANOR, GREETING.
John Gwynn, Gentl., Steward to Edward Lewis, Gentleman, Lord of the said Manor :
I Command you that you give due and lawful Summons to all the Tennants, Resiants and
Inhabitants of the said Manor, that the Court Leet with View of Frank Pledge, of our
Sovereign Lord the King, with the Court Baron of the said Edward Lewis, will be held at
the Dwelling House. ... at the Village of Talachduy, upon Tuesday, the Second
day of June next, at Eleven of the Clock in the Forenoon, then and there to make a true
Presentru't of all such Matters and things which shall be then and there given them in
Charge. Given under my hand and Seal the 18th May, 1767.
JNO. GWYNN,
Gent., Steward.
WILLIAM POWEL,
Mr. Beavan desires you will serve this Warrant for the Leet, and to let the Peeple of
the Publick House know the day, which is the Morrow after Talgarth Fair.
I am Y'rs,
JNO. GWYNN,
18th May, 1767.
(Endorsed) 1767, Tallachdu Leet Warrant.
1772.— MANOR OF TALLACHDUY, IN THE COUNTY OF BRECON.
TO OLIVER HOWELLS, BAYLEFF OF THE SAID MANOR.
These are in his Ma'ty's Name to require you forthwith to give due and Lawful!
Sumons to the severall Inhabitants, Tenants, and Resiants of the said Mannor to be and
personally to appear beforetme, or my Lawfull Deputy, at ye Court Leet of Our Sovereign Lord
(124)
the King and Court Baron of Charles Lewis, Gentleman, Lord of the said Manor, to be held
at the White House, in the Parish of Tallachduy, in and for the said Manor, on Wednesday,
the 28th Day of this Instant October, by Ten of the Clock in the forenoon of the same
day, then and there to do and perform their several suits and services, according to the
Custom of the said Manor. And you are to give due and Lawfull Summons to Twelve
Freeholders' Tenants of the said Manor to appear there also at ye said Court, to be sworne
and Impannelled to Enquire into all such Matters and things as shall be given them in
charge, and Have you then and there the Names of ye said Inhabitants, Tenantes, Resiants,
and Jurors aforesaid and this precept. Given under my hand and seal the 24th day of
October, 1772.
JA. JONES,
Steward.
(Endorsed) Manor Tallachdu.
24th October, 1772.
Stewd's Warr't to hold Leet, viz. : —
Jas. Jonse at Blawd Kirch.
1773.
Know all Men by these presents that I, George Thomson, of Shrewsbury, Have made,
constituted, and appointed, and by these presents Do make, constitute, and appoint Robert
Williams, of Brecknock, Gent., my Steward at my Manor of Tallachdu, in the County of
Brecknock, giving and hereby granting unto him, the said Robert Williams, and to his
sufficient Deputy or Deputys in that behalf to be made, and to each and every of them full
Power and Authority to keep and Hold all my Courts Leet, Views of Frank pledge,
Courts Baron and other Courts within the Limits afores'd, and to do and execute all things
belonging to the Office of a Steward during my Will and Pleasure.
In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and Seal this 26 of November, in
the Year ] 773.
Witness : GEO. THOMSON.
Josha. Eddowes.
WITH. Eddowes.
(Endorsed) 26 Novr., 1773. Manor Tallachdu.
Deputation to hold Courts.
1774— MANOli OF TALLACHDU.
At the Court Leet with View of Frank Pledge of our Sovereign Lord the King and
Court Baron of George Thomson, Esquire, Lord of the said Manor, held by Adjournment
at the Dwelling-house of Thomas Morgan, within the said Manor, upon Friday, the
eleventh Day of November, in the year of our Lord, 1774,
Before me,
ROB. WILLIAMS,
Stew'd.
THE NAMES OF THE JURY.
Lewis Williams, Esq. Thos. Price.
George Lewis, Esq. Edward \Vatkin.
Jonathan Dixon, Gent. David Lewis.
Benjamin Havard. John Phillip.
Thomas Morgan. Evan Powell.
Thomas Jones. Peter Jones.
Benjamin Price.
(125)
We, the Jurors impannelled and sworn to enquire for our Sovereign Lord the King
and the Lord of the Manor, do present as follows : —
We present John and Morgan Meredith for turning of Sheep into this Manor.
We present John Phillip for keeping of Goats as a Nusauce to the Tenants of this
Manor.
We present William Thomas and Margaret Price for keeping of Goats as a Nusance
to the Tenants of this Manor.
We present David Davies for turning of Sheep into this Manor.
We present the Defaulters for not doing Suit and Service at this Court Leet.
We present an Alienation on the Passage of an Estate from Sir Chas. Kemeys Tynte,
Bart., to John Wilkins, Esq., for the Tenement called Pantey issa.
We present Mr. Thomas Williams, late of Caburdduy, for an Encroachment on the
waste ground called by the name of Mynidd vach, in this Manor.
We present Margaret Price, Widow, for an Encroachment on the Waste ground called
by the name of Mynidd vach, in this Manor.
We present an Alienation on the Passage of an Estate from Edward Havard to
Thomas Davies, Clk., due for the Tenement called Keven y veliu.
We present an Alienation on the Passage of an Estate from George Roberts, Esqr., to
Hugh Bold, Gent., due for the Tenem't called Coedytilly.
We present an Alienation on the Passage of an Estate from William Havard, of
Crickadarn, to William Havard, of Pontybat, due for a House and Spot of Ground at
Velinvach.
We present an Heriot due to the Lord of this Manor for the house and ffield called
Llwyncunnog vach, upon the Decease of Edward Powell, and present Howell Powell as
Tenant upon his Decease.
We present an Heriot due to the Lord of this Manor for a Tenement called Tyrgwevn
vach Corthigglyson, upon the Decease of Thomas Watkins, and present William \Vatkins
as Tenant upon his Decease.
(126)
TALLACHDU, 1774.
TENANTS AND RBSIANTS THERE.
John Wilkins, Esq., for Pante.
S'r Charls Kemeys, Esq'r, for Denveu Doppa.
William Winter, Esq'r, for Kevenmuckles.
Meredith James, Esq'r, for Elermerich.
Hugh Bold, Esq'r, for Coedtnle.
Mr. Morgan Price, for fedw Vach.
Reverend Mr. Thomas Davies, Kevenyfelin and Unusydurn.
Mr. William Williams, for Cwmtoi Ddwr.
Mr. Henery Williams, for a field, Caebwla.
Mr. Thomas Williams. Caerburthi.
Lewis Williams, Esq'r, for Lligod.
Mr. Howell Powell.
Mr. George Lewis, for Talackthy.
Reverend William Watkins, Talacthy.
Thomas Price.
David Lewis.
William Morgan.
Benjamin Powell.
John Williams.
Thomas Jones.
John Parry.
Thomas Morgan.
John Phillip.
William Havard.
John Williams.
David Vaughan.
John Williams.
Jehosaphat Havard.
(127)
John William Weaver. John Jones, Druslionfawar.
John William, Junior. John Jenkins.
John Thos. William Williams.
Thos. Jones. William Thos.
David William. Thos. Powell.
Thos. William. Oliver Howell.
Thos. Frees, Laborer. Fitter Jones.
1779.— MANOR OF TALLACHDU.
At the Court Leet with View of Frank Pledge of our Sovereign Lord ye King And
Court Baron of Anthony Lefroy, Esq'r, and George Lefroy, Clerk, Lords of the said Manor,
held at the dwelling House of Thomas Morgan within the said Manor, upon Wednesday,
the 27th day of October, 1779.
before me,
ROB : WILLIAMS,
Stew'd.
THE NAMES OP THE JURY.
Lewis Williams, Esq'r. Thos. Jones, Llwyncynog Vach.
Morgan Davies, Gen. Thos. Morgan.
Evan Powele. Benjn. Havard.
Thos. Price. Jno. Phillip.
David Lewis. Jno. Williams.
Kdw'd Watkins. Peter Jones.
Thos. Jones.
We the Jurors Impannelled and Sworne to enquire for our Sovereign Lord the King
and the Lord of the said Manor, do present as fols.
We present William Thomas, John Jenkins, Margaret Price, Margaret Jones, and
Thomas Price, for keeping of Goats as a N usance to the Tenants of this Manor.
(On another paper the above entry appears as William Thomas and others for a
Nusance by keeping of Goats, and suffering them to wander about in the said Manor to the
Annoyance of the Tenants thereof).
We present Thomas Powell for an Encroachment on the waste ground of this Manor.
(On the other paper this entry appears as : We also present Thos. Powell for an
Encroachment in the said Manor, by Inclosing part thereof.)
LEWIS WILLIAMS.
(Endorsed) 1779. Manor of Tallachdu. MOR: DAVIES.
Leet held the 27th Oct., 1779.
9TH NOV., 1786.
We present the Death of Thomas Price, of Caerbwlla Vawr, in this Manor, and
Thomas Watkins as a New Tenant in his stead.
We present John Jenkins, Margaret Thomas, and Margaret Jones, for keeping Goats.
We present Margaret Thomas for an Encroachment by her made on the Common
called Myniddback within this manor.
(Enclosed).
£ s. d.
Dinners for 18 . . . . .104
Ale . . . . . 0 10 0
Oats . 009
1 11 1
Velin Vack, Nov. 9th, 1786.
Rec'd the above in full,
M. WILLIAMS.
(128)
(Enclosed) 1786.
Walter Wilkins, Esq'r. Mr. Wm. Williams.
Sir Chas. Kemeys, dead. Mr. Henry Williams.
William Wynter, Clerk. Mr. Thomas Williams.
William James, Esq'r. Lewis Williams.
Hugh Bold, Esq'r. Mr. Howell Powell.
Mr. Morgan Price, George Lewis, Esq'r.
Revd. Mr. Thomas Davies.
Summoned for Jury to attend the Court Leet of the Manor of Talachdu to be held on
Thursday, the 9th Nov'r, 1786.
Lewis Williams, Esq'r. Thomas Jones.
Morgan Davies, Gent. John Llewelin.
Thomas Watkin. Thomas David.
Thomas Morgan. George Williams.
Benjamin Havard. John Williams.
Benjamin Price. Peter Jones.
John Phillip.
(Endorsed) 1786.
Expences at ye Leet held then.
1787.— MANOR OF TALLACHDU.
At the Court Leet with View of frank Pledge of our Sovereign Lord the King and
Court Baron of Anthony Lefroy, Esq'r., and George Lefroy, Clerk, Lord of the said Manor,
held at the Dwelling House of Thos. Morgan, within the said Manor, on the 22nd day of
October, 1787.
before me
(blank).
We present George Williams, of Derwen doppa, for keeping five Goats and suffering
the same to wander about the Manor.
We present the Pound belonging to the Manor being out of repair.
We also present a Heriot on the Death of Wm. Watkins, Clerk.
(Bill).
Velin Vach, 2nd Oct., 1787.
£ s. d.
Dinner for 10 . . . . 0 10 0
Do. in the Kitchen for 10 . . .068
Ale in the Parlour . . . .054
Do. in the Kitchen . .030
Rum . 040
1 9 0
1793.
October the twenty-second, 1793. We the Jury men at a Court Leet in the Manor
of Tallachddy, in the County of Brecon, do present as followeth.
We present John Jenkins, Labourer, Margaret Thomas, widow, John Prico, Labourer,
Margaret Jones, Widow, and Elizabeth Williams, Widow, for keeping Goats in the s'd
Manor.
We present two Alienations due on Ty and tir yn y Lone, a Messuage and tenement
so called, now the property of Dr. Howells of the Town of Brecon.
We present the Pound of the Manor to be out of repair.
We present a Heriot due 011 Caer Byrddy on the Death of Mr. Thomas, and another
on the Death of Mr. Howell Williams.
(129)
(Bill). £ « d.
Deaner for Ten gentle men . . .0100
Denier for Ten in the Kitchen . . .0100
eal . . . .063
£ s. d.
1 0 0
063
046
Velin vach
Sugar . . 009
Mices Leet
to'l 1 11 6
1805.— MANOR OF TALLACHDDU.
At the Court Leet with view of Frank Pledge of our Sovereign Lord the King and
Court Baron of George Lefroy, Clerk, Lord of the said Manor, held at the Dwelling House
of Thomas Thomas, within the said Manor, upon Monday, the 7th day of October, in the
Year of our Lord, 1805.
Before me,
JOHN DIXON,
Steward.
NAMES OF THE JURY.
Rees Prosser. Roger Prosser.
Thomas Morgan. Thomas Jones, of Llwyncynog.
Joseph Edwards. John Llewelliu.
Win. Thomas. Wm. Williams.
David Thomas. Thomas Powell.
George Williams. Thomas Jones, of Pen Quarrel.
We present Margaret Thomas, John Price, and Mary Price, for keeping Groats within
the Manor, to the Injury and annoyance of the Tenants and Resiants.
We present the death of Howell Powell, while seised of a Messuage, Farm, and Lands
within the said Manor, called Maes y berllan, and that a Heriott thereupon became due to
the Lord thereof. (7s.)
We present that Edw'd Powell, the Devisee of the above-named Howell Powell, sold
and conveyed the aforesaid Premises to John Williams, and that thereupon an Alienation
became due to the Lord. 7s. Kec'd. J. DIXON.
We present that the aforesaid Edwd. Powell sold and conveyed another Tenement or
Land within the said Manor to John Powell, of Treheury, and that thereupon an Aliena-
tion became due to the s'd Lord. 7s. Rec'd J. D.
We present that Isaac Price sold and conveyed a House and Garden within the said
Manor to Win. Jones, Tayler, and that thereupon an Alienation became due to the Lord.
7s. Rec'd J. D.
We present that Wm. Wynter, Esq., sold and conveyed a Messuage, Tenement and
Lands within the said Manor called Keven Machllis, and another called Derwen Doppa, to
Edwd. Morgan, Gent., and that thereupon two Alienations became due to the Lord.
14*. Rec'd J. DIXON.
We present that the Trustees of the Children of the late Thomas Davies, Clk., sold
and conveyed a Messuage, Farm, and Lands within the said Manor, called Keven y felan,
and a Mill thereunto, belonging to Messrs. W. and J. Powell, of Brecon, and that thereupon
an Alienation became due to the Lord. 7s. Rec'd J. DIXON.
We present that Lewis Williams, Esq'r, died seised of three several Estates within the
said Manor by the several names of Kevyncynnog, Noyadd, and Caer Brelan fuel, and that
thereupon three several Heriotts became due to the Lord. 21*. Rec'd J. DIXON.
VOL. II. S
(130)
We present that Mrs. Margaret Williams, the Widow of the above-named Lewis
Williams, died seised of a Messuage, Tenement, and Lands called the Argoed, and of two
Houses and a Field at Vellin fuel, all within the said Manor, and that thereupon two
several Heriotts became due to the said Lord. 14s. Rec'd J. DIXON.
We present John Price for enclosing and fencing in to his own Land Part of Mynidd
Vach Common, within the said Manor.
We present George Williams for enclosing and fencing in to his own Farm Part of
Tallachddy Common within the said Manor.
(131)
MANOR OF TALLATHDY, OCT. TTH, 1805.
3 YRS. CHIEF RENTS DUB MICHAELMAS, 1805.
£ s. d.
John Phillip, Vedow Vach 3 Yrs. . .069
Benj'n Prosser, late Cis Williams Do. . .030
Tho's Jones, Lwyconan Do. . .356
Joseph Edwards, Tyr Lone Do. . .300
Tho's Jones and Jno. Lewellin Do. . .076
Mrs. Dorothy Williams, for Keveu y Velen, 3 Yrs. . 1116
George Williams, for Kevenmachllis ,, 0 0 7|
Do. for Derven Doppa ,, .050
Isabella Thom,as, for Derven Doppa Vach „ .016
David Thomas, for Pantey Ucha ,, .016
Jno. Lewellen, Pantey Isa ,, 0 10 9
Mrs. Marg't Jones, for Coedy Tully , .090
Jno' Williams, Maeserburlan
Thos. Morgan, Talhithdy
Mr. Williams, Cahbernthy
Sylvanus Hafard
0 1 6
0 1 0
069
1 11 6
J. DIXON, Steward.
1814.— MANOR OF TALACHDDY.
The Court Leet and view of Frankpledge of our Sovereign Lord the King, together
with the Court Baron of The Reverend John Henry George Lefroy, Clerk, Lord of the said
Manor, held at the Dwelling-House of William Williams, within and for the said Manor, on
Friday, the Fourteenth day of October, One thousand eight hundred and fourteen, Before
Jonathan Dixon, Esquire, Steward.
THE NAMES OP THE JURY ANU JURY OF HOMAGE.
1. Walter Williams, Gentn. 7. Thomas Morgan.
2. John Price. 8. Thomas Prosser.
3. William Hughes. 9. Evan Edwards.
4. Howell Jones. 10. David Jones.
5. William Williams. 11. John Llewellin.
6. James Morgan. 12. William Williams Smith.
We, the Jury and Jury of Homage do present that there is a Keriot due to the Lord
of this Manor upon the Death of Doctor Thomas Howell, who died seized of Lands within
this Manor.
We also present that there is another Heriott due to the Lord upon the Death of the
late Mr. John Powell, of Fuyissa, in the Parish of Llauthew, who also died seized of Lands
within this Manor. Rec'd 7s. and pd. to Mr. Lefroy.
We further present an Encroachment made by William Thomas, Carpenter, by
building a House upon part of the waste within this Manor, and by enclosing another part
of the Waste attached to said House.
And we also present an Encroachment made by John Price, Labourer, by inclosing
another part of the Waste within this Manor.
(132)
As well as another Encroachment made by Thomas Powell, Labourer, by inclosing
another part of the said waste.
And we moreover present a Heriott to be due to the Lord upon the Death of
Mr. Thomas Price, who died seized of the Vidw and other Lands within this Manor.
(Signed by all the Jurors.)
Before
JON. DIXON, Steward.
1814— MANOB OF TAIACHDDY.
ACCOUNT OF CHIEF RENTS FOE THKEE YEARS, DUE MICHAELMAS, 1814.
14iH OCTOBER.
£ s. d.
Pd. John Phillip, Vedwfack . . .069
Pd. Roger Prosser, late Cis Williams . .030
Pd. Thomas Jones, Llwyncynuog . .356
Pd. Joseph Edwards, Tyr y Lone . .300
Pd. Thomas Jones and John Llewelliu . .076
Pd. Mrs. Dorothy Williams for Keven Velin . . 1 11 6
Pd. George Williams, Darwen Doppa . .050
Pd. Do. for Kevenmerchlis . . 0 0 7£
Pd. Isabella Thomas, for Derwendoppavach .016
Pd. Mr. Hughes, Pantey Ucha . . .016
Pd. John Llewellyn, Pantyissa . . . 0 10 9
Pd. Mrs. Marg't Jones, Coed Tully . . .090
Pd. Juo. Williams, Maesyrburllau . .016
Pd. Thomas Morgan, Talachddy . .010
Pd. Mr. Williams, of Caerburthy . .069
Pd. Sylvauus Havard, of Argod Ucha . . . 1 11 6
£12 3
1817.— MANOR OF TALACHDDY.
Warrant dated llth of October, 1817, directed to Thomas Jones, bailiff, requiring him
to summon the freeholders, tenants, and resiants within the said manor to nppear at the
Court Leet to be held on Thursday, the 23rd of October in the said year.
W. POWELL, Steward.
The Court Leet and View of Frankpledge of our Sovereign Lord the King, together
with the Court Baron of the Reverend John Henry George Lefroy, Clerk, Lord of the said
Manor, held at the Dwelling-house of William Williams, within and for the said Manor,
on Thursday, the 23rd Day of October, 1817, Before John Powell, Gentleman, Steward.
(133)
THE NAMES OF THE JURY AND JURY OF HOMAGE..
1. Walter Williams, Gentleman. 7. Thomas Prosser.
2. James Morgan. 8. Meredith Lewis.
3. Howell Price. 9. William Eichetts.
4. Thomas Morgan. 10. William Meredith.
5. Rees Pritchard. 11. William Williams.
6. David Jones. 12. Jenkin Davies.
We, the Jurors and Jury of Homage being sworn to enquire for our Sovereign Lord
the King and the Lord of this Manor, do present as follows : —
We present an Encroachment made by the Reverend Morgan Price, Clerk, Vicar of
Tallachddy, by enclosing a piece of the Waste within this Manor, at or near the Village of
Tallachddy.
We also present an Encroachment made by Mr. William Williams, of Cwmtoythor,
by enclosing another part of the Waste within this Manor, at or near Ved \vvach.
(Signed by all the Jurors.)
(BiLL.)
1817. October 3rd.
Mr. Overton,
To Thomas Prichard.
£ s. d.
8 Bind in the pnrler, at 3s. Gd. . . .180
5 Bind in the Kiohing at 2s. 6(7. . . .0126
19 quarts drank in the Kiching, and 6 in the parler, of ale
(The Umpire included) . . .0126
£2 13 0
1820.— MANOR OF TALLACHDDUY.
At the Court Leet of our Sovereign Lord the King, together witli the Court Baron of
John Henry George Lefroy, Clerk, Lord of the said Manor, held at the Dwelling-house of
William Williams, situate in the Parish of Tallachdduy, within and for the said Manor, on
Thursday, the Twenty-sixth day of October, 1820. Before William Evans, Deputy to
Walter Powell, Gentleman, Steward. Thomas Jones, Bailiff.
NAMES OF THE JURY.
Walter Williams. Thomas Prosser.
William Hughes. John Williams.
James Morgan. William Williams.
Thomas Morgan. William Rickett.
Richard Price. David Jones.
Samuel Edwards. Joseph Williams.
We the Jurors aforesaid, being sworn to enquire for our Sovereign Lord the King and
the Lord of the said Manor, have nothing to present.
(Signed by all the jurors.)
(134)
1824.-TALLACHDDUY LEET, 31sx DEC., 1824.
CHIEF BENTS REC'D. BEING FOR 4 YEARS DUE MICHA'S, 1824.
£ s. d.
Rec'd of Samuel Edwards, for Neuadd, at £1 p. ann'm .400
Thomas Price, for Talachddy, at ±d. . .014
Mr. William Richetts, for Cefin y felin, at 10*. Qd. 220
Mr. Walter Williams, for Caerburthy, at 2s. l|d .086
John Price, for Derwen doppa vach, at Gd. .020
James Morgan, for Cefeu, Machlais and Derweii
ddoppa, at Is. Q$d. .072
Margaret Powell, for Maesyberllan, at 6s. .020
Catherine Jones, for Llwyncynog and part of Noyadd,
at£l Is. lOd. . . .474
Tabitha Llewellyn, for Pante and the other part of
Noyadd, at 3s. \0d. . 0 15 4
John Price, for Vedw vach and part of Cwmtithor,
at 2s. 3d. . . .090
David Jones, at Pen y quarrel, at Is. . .040
Edward Ferrar, for Coed y tyle, at 7 years, at 3s. . 1 1 0
Thomas Morgan, for Argoed, at 10s. 6d. .220
William Hughes, for Pautebach . .020
16 3 8
By p'd House Expences at the Lett .256
13 18 2
(Endorsed) Account of Chief Rents received for the Rev'd J. H. G. Lefroy.
1824— MANOE OF TALLACHDDY.
At the Court Leet of our Sovereign Lord the King, together with the Court Baron of
the Reverend Benjamin Lefroy, Clerk, and- James Quilter, Esquire, Lords of the said
Manor, held at the Dwelling House of William Williams, situate in the Parish of
Tallachdduy, within and for the said Manor, on Friday, the thirty first day of December,
1824.
Before (no name mentioned).
THOMAS JONES, Bailiff.
NAMES OF THU JUUY.
Mr. Thomas Williams. Thomas Price.
James Morgan. Thomas Ferrar.
Howell Price. Thomas Prosser.
John Price. William Llewellin.
David Jones. William Williams.
Samuel Edwards. Thomas Jones.
We, being sworn to enquire for our Sovereign Lord the King and the Lord of this
Manor, do present that a Herriot has become due from Keveu y velin farm by the death
of Walter Powell, Esquire, the same amounting to three shillings and ninepence.
We have nothing further to present.
(Signed by all the jurors.)
(135)
1827.— MANOR OF TALLACHDDUY.
Warrant, dated 23rd May, 1827, directed to Thomas Jones, bailiff of the said manor,
requiring him to give notice in all public places within the said manor that the Leet Court
of the King and the Baron Court of the Hev. Benjamin Lefroy and James Quilter, Esq.,
lords of the said manor, with view of frank pledge, will be held on Friday, the 1st day of
June next, at the dwelling house of William Williams, in the parish of Tallaehdd uy, by
11 o'clk. a.m., and to summon 24 good and lawful men of the said manor to be impaunelled
on the jury, etc., etc., and to warn all constables, Tythingmen, and other officers, to be
then and there present, etc., etc.
JOHN POWELL, Steward.
At the Court Leet of our Sovereign Lord the King, together with the Court Baron of
the Reverend Benjamin Lefroy, Clerk, and James Quilter, Esquire, Lords of the said
Manor, held at the Dwelling house of William Williams, situate in the parish of Tallach-
dduy, within and for the said manor, on Friday, the First day of June, 1827.
Thomas Jones, Bailiff. Before Wm. EVANS, Deputy Steward.
NAMES OF JUKY.
William Ricketts. Thomas Morgan.
David Jones, of Llwyncynog. Samuel Edwards.
David Jones, of Derwendoppa. William Prichard.
William Williams. William Llewellin.
Howell Price, of Derwendoppafach. John Jones.
John Price, of Vedwfach. Thomas Awbrey.
We, being Sworn to enquire for our Sovereign Lord the King and the Lord of the
said Manor, do present as follows, viz : —
We present William Kinsey, of Porthgwyn Tanner, as a fit and proper person to serve
the office of Petty Constable for the Parish of Tallachddu and Township of Garthbrengy
for the ensuing year.
We have nothing further to present.
1827.— TALL AOHDDU LEET, IST JUNE, 1827.
CHIEF RENTS REO'D ui> TO MICHAELMAS, 1827.
£ s. d.
Rec'd of Samuel Edwards, for Neuadd, at £ p. ann'm . 300
„ ,, William Prichard, for Tallachddy, at M. . 010
,, ,, Mr. William Hicketts, for Cefny velim, at 10s. Qd. Ill 6
„ ,. Air. Thomas Williams, for Caerburthy, at 2s. 1^(/. 0 6 4|
John Price, for Dervven doppa fach, at 6d. . 016
Margaret Powell, tor Maes y Berllan at 6d. . 016
Catherine Jones, for Llwyncynog and part of Noyadd,
at£l Is. lOd. . . 356
Tabitha Llewellyn, for Finite and the other part of
Noyadd, at 3*. lid . 0 11 6
John Price, of Vedwvach, and part of Cwmtithor, at
2s. 3c/. . . . 069
David Jones, of Peny quarrel, at Is. . .030
Thomas Morgan, for Argoed, at 10s. &d. . 1 11 6
David Jones, for Derwendoppa, at Is. Id. . 049
Edward Ferrar, for Coedytyle, at 3s. . . 090
Levy Williams, for I'etnmachlais, l^d. . 0 0 "t\
Thomas Hughes, for Pantebach, at 6d. . 016
11 16 0
(136)
1830.— MANOE OF TALACHDDY.
Warrant, dated 9 October, 1830, directed to Thomas Jones, bailiff, requiring him to
give notice of the Leet Court and Barou Court, with view of frankpledge, to be held on
Monday, the 25th of October, instant, at the dwelling house of William Williams in the
parish of Tallachdduy.
JOHN POWELL, Steward.
At the Court Leet of our sovereign Lord the King, together with the Court Baron of
James Quilter, Esquire, Lord of the said manor, held at the Dwelling house of William
Williams, situate in the parish of Talachdduy, within and for the said manor, on Monday,
the twenty fifth day of October, 1830.
Before WM. EVANS, Deputy Steward.
Thomas Jones, Bailiff.
NAMES OP JURY.
William Rickets. David Jones.
John Jones. William Pritchard.
David Jones. William Hughes.
Thomas Williams. John Williams.
Samuel Edwards. William Williams.
Thomas Morgan. Thomas Aubrey.
We, being Sworn to enquire for our Sovereign Lord the King and the Lord of the
said manor, do present as follows, viz. : —
We present an Encroachment by Thomas Watkins, of Peuy quarrel, in the Parish of
Tallachddu, shoemaker, by enclosing a part of the common Land situate within this
Manor, adjoining to Land in the respective occupations of the said Thomas Watkins and of
Thomas Jones, and the Road leading from the Common to Pante farm and the common.
We also present an Incroachment by William Thomas, of Mynidd vach in the said
Parish of Tallachddu, by enclosing part of the Common Land of this manor adjoining to
Land in the occupation of the said William Thomas and of John Daniel, the Road leading
to C'wmtoyddwr and the Common.
We present that a Heriot has become due for Vederfach farm by the Death of David
Lloyd, Esquire, amounting to seven shillings and six pence.
We present that a Heriot has become due for Pante farm by the Death of Walter
Wilkins, Esquire, amounting to seven (hillings' and sixpence.
We have nothing further to present.
(Signed by all the jurors.)
1836.— MANOR OF TALLACHDDU.
NOTICE OF PERAMBULATION OF BOUNDARIES.
Notice is hereby given that the Boundaries of the Manor of Tallachddu, in the County
of Brecon, will be perambulated on Tuesday, the twenty-fifth day of October instant, and
that such Perambulation will commence at or near the Dwelling house of John Williams,
situate at Velinfach, within the said manor, at eight o'clock in the forenoon. Dated the
15th day of October, 1836.
JONES AND POWELL,
Stewards for Gabriel Powell, Esquire,
the Lord of the said Manor.
(Endorsed) 18th Oct., 1836.
Copy delivered to Mr. Macnamara.
20th. Another Copy delivered to Messrs. Vaughan and Bevan, for Sir Chas. Morgan.
Same Day. Another Copy delivered to Mr. Churchey, for the Lord Bishop of Saint
Davids.
(137)
1836.— MANOR OF TALACHDDU.
Warrant dated 13th October, 1836, directed to Thomas Jones, bailiff, requiring him
to give notice of the Court Leet and Baron Court of the King and of Gabriel Powell, Esq.,
respectively, with view of frankpledge, to be held on Tuesday, the 25th day of October
instant.
(No Presentment.) JONES AND POWELL, Stewards.
1843.— MANOR OF TALACHDDU.
Warrant dated 18th November, 1843, directed to Thomas Jones, bailiff, requiring him
to give notice of the Court Leet of the Queen and Court Baron of the Rev'd Thomas John
Powell and John Powell, Esq., lords of the same manor, with view of frankpledge, to be
held on Wednesday, the 6th day of December next, at the dwelling house of John
Williams, in the parish of Talachddu.
MAYBERY and WILLIAMS, Stewards.
At the Court Leet of our Sovereign Lady the Queen, together with the Court Baron
of The Reverend Thomas John Powell and John Powell, Esquire, Lords of the said Manor,
held at the Dwelling house of John Williams, situate in tlie parish of Talachddu, within
and for the said Manor, on Wednesday, the Sixth day of December, 1843.
Before RICHARD FRYER,
THOMAS JONES, Bailiff. Deputy Steward.
NAMES OF THE JURY.
1. John Rickets. 7. Thomas Ferrar.
2. Thomas Williams, Canburthy. 8. David Thomas.
3. William Prichard. 9. William Weal.
4. Samuel Edwards. 10. David Price.
5. Thomas Williams, Argoed 11. David Jones.
6. William Phillips. 12. John Williams.
We, being sworn to enquire for our Sovereign Lady the Queen and the Lord of the
said Manor, do present as follows, viz't : —
We present that a Herriot has become due for Coed y tyle by the Death of Hugh
Bold, Esq.
We present that a Herriott has become due for Panti issa farm by the death of
Walter De Winton, Esq.
We present the purchase of Dderwen doppa farm by Thomas Protheroe Price, Esq., of
Brecon, whereby an alienation fine is due to the Lords of this Manor.
We also present the purchase of Cefw Machlais farm by Howell Williams, of Brecon,
Esquire, whereby an Alienation fine is due to the Lords of the Manor.
We present an Encroachment by William Thomas, of Mynidd Vach, in the said parish
of Talachddu, by enclosing part of the Common Land of this Manor, adjoining to Land in
the occupation of the said William Thomas and of John Daniel, the road leading to
Courtyddur, and the Common. This Encroachment is in addition to the one presented at
at the Leet held the 25 of October, 1830.
We also present an Encroachment by David Evans, of Dris Thoyw, in the said parish
of Talachddu, by enclosing a part of the Waste Land on the side of the road, and which
adjoins the Garden in the occupation of the said David Evans.
We also present an Encroachment made by Thomas Watkins, Shoemaker, at Peny
quarrel, adjoining land of Miss Williams, of Duffryn, in the occupation of David
Thomas. This encroachment is in addition to the one presented at the Leet held the
25th Oct'r, 1830.
We have nothing further to present.
(Signed by all the Jurors.)
VOL. II. T
(138)
The Copper Mines in Talachddu Parish.
It would be perhaps hardly accurate to describe the old copper mines in this parish as
a forgotten industry of our county, but rather as the "prospecting" for such, and an
attempt to work them. There is a tradition that some of the workings were made by the
Romans. The lease, of which a summary is annexed, shows that as recently as 1819
certain persons from a distance, including a chemist from Anglesey, believed that minerals
existed in this parish which could be profitably worked, and probably there are some who
are of that opinion still. The venture, however, of 1819 was soon abandoned, and has not
been renewed within living memory. The old workings are, I am informed, still to be
seen near Maesyberllan Chapel, by the side of the brook Dulas. The presence of copper ore
anywhere is not bound by strict geological rules, and it is possible to find it here and there
in small or large quantities in any of the older strata.
COPPER AND OTHER MINERALS IN TALACHDDU PARISH.
LEASE OF, BY LEFROY TO PALMER & O'RS.
It is witnessed by an Indenture made Nov. 8, 1819,
Between the Rev'd JOHN HENRY LEFROY, of Ashe, in the Co. of Hants of the one
part, and
JOHN PALMER, of Enou Cottage, Shrewsbury, Baptist Minister ;
JAMES FREME, of Liverpool, Merchant, and
JAMES WEBSTER, of the Vitriol Works, Anglesey, Chemist, of the other part.
The lessor grants all mines and Grooves of Copper ore, lead ore, Tin ore, Manganese,
Lapis Calaminaris, Black Jack or Mock ore, Iron ore, ochre, clay, coals, and all other kinds
of minerals, marble and limestone, with all the Rakes, Pipes, Flotts, therein already or
hereafter discovered, to the said lessees on all the following farms :
Llwyncynog,
Pen y Park,
Kefn Garth,
and Vunglas,
in the Parish of Talachdduy, Co. Brecon, being the land of the said lessor, and in all
other waste land belonging to the said lessor, as Lord of the Manor of Talachdduy.
With liberty to work the same, erect buildings, and cleanse ores, etc.
To hold for 21 yrs. from 25th December next.
Yielding and paying one full tenth of all the Minerals that shall be gotten.
Powers for lessor of re-entry on breach of covenant, and on work being discontinued for
three months, unless by unavoidable accident.
Signed by the various parties.
(139)
Talachddu Common Lands.
In 1865 the common lands of this parish, which stretched up past Coed fan glas to
the high ground at TWVN Y GAEU and Oaer bwla, and which also included the detached
common of Mynydd Bach, were enclosed. The scheme was prepared by Mr. Isaac Davios,
Land Surveyor, of Brecon, and a Provisional Order obtained for carrying the Inclosnre into
effect without any of the difficulties attendant upon such proceedings experienced of recent
years. The common lands dealt with by this Inclosure were about 120 acres in extent,
and a copy of the Inclosure Award, with Plan, is kept in the parish chest.
About that period a very considerable number of small commons were enclosed in
Breconshire, from plans made and schemes promoted by the same land surveyor. I
remember these commons unenclosed and open, when I was young, and they formed
famous places for finding a hare when hunting, and splendid open galloping ground.
Later, in the spring, and often far into the autumn, they were a mass of golden gorse
blossom. The inclosure of these small commons has both its advantages and drawbacks ;
and it would be well if what we have remaining of them is left untouched by Inclosure
schemes and Provisional Orders.
Wain y Gyfir Inclosures.
PARISH OF LLANTHKW.
This part of Llanthew parish immediately adjoins the parish of Talachddu, on the
south-east, and may be suitably noticed here. The common land consisted probably of
not more than 150 acres, but it is impossible to speak with certainty, as the Award and
Plan, made by the Commissioners, and which were, or should have been, deposited in the
Parish Church, have never been seen by any living person, and have certainly not been
there for a very long time. The Act of Parliament, to which the Royal assent was
given on December 17th, 1813, sanctioning the inclosure is now before me; and that and
the subjoined printed and published paper are the only documents I have ever seen
relating to this inclosure. From the description given, we know it comprises so much of
the Allt yr onow hill as was within the parish of Llanthew, and a stretch of land on either
side of the old highway leading from Penishn Waun cross-road to Pen y Waun farm.
WAIN Y GYFIR, ETC., INCLOSUEES.
PARISH OF LLANTHEW.
(From printed Paper.)
At a Meeting of the Landowners, interested in the Commons of Wain y Gyfir and
Altyr Onnow, in the Parish of Llanthew, within the Manor of Alexanderstone and Mara
Mota, in the County of Brecon, held at the CASTLE INN, in the Town of BRECON, on the
Twentieth Day of January, 1813. Present: The Rev. Archdeacon Davies, Lancelot
Morgan, Esq., Walter Wilkius, Esq., and the several other persons who have set and
subscribed their Names to these Resolutions.
The REV. ARCHDEACON DAVIES
In the Chair.
(140)
The Notice calling the Meeting having been read, and the Map of the Common
produced,
It was KESOLVBD, — That the before-mentioned Commons be inclosed, divided, and
allotted by mutual Agreement, between the Parties interested, and that the Articles (the
Draft of which was also read over at this Meeting) be drawn up agreeably to the Alterations
then suggested, and that the same be executed at the next Meeting (which is deemed to be
the first under the Articles of Agreement), on Monday, the 15th Day of February, 1813.
That WILLIAM COULING, of Brecon, Gentleman, be the Commissioner for the above
Purpose, and that the Appeal to his Judgement (in Case any Appeal shall be deemed
necessary by any of the Parties) shall be made to JONATHAN DIXON, of Llanthetty, in the
County of Brecon, and WILLIAM PARRY the Younger, of Tretower, in the same County,
Gentlemen ; and that the Judgement and Determination of the Majority of the said
W. COULINO, JONATHAN DIXON, and WILLIAM PARKY shall be deemed final and conclusive
upon all the Parties interested in the before-mentioned Commons, without Appeal to any
Court whatever.
We do hereby ratify and confirm the above, according to our respective Interests.
Richd. Davies. W. G. Vaughan.
Walter Wilkius. Thomas Bold, for and on Be-
Lancelot Morgan. half of Mrs. Bridget Hughes
J. Meredith, for my Father, and Mrs. Clarke, and duly
T. Meredith. authorized by them.
Thomas Bold, for and on Behalf of William Williams.
Sir Charles Morgan, Bart., as Walter Williams.
Lord of the Manor and Land- Roger Williams,
holder.
Brecknock : Printed by G. North.
THE MAEN LLIA ON THE GREAT FOREST OF BRECKNOCK.
THE MAEN LL1A ON THE GREAT FOREST OF BRECKNOCK
(View showing end and side.)
(141)
The Great Forest of Brecknock.
CAP. I.
THE EARLY HISTORY.
It may be assumed, though without any written warrant, that while Bernard
Newmarch, the Norman chieftain, on his conquest of Breconshire, apportioned out various
lands to his chief retainers, he reserved to himself some of the best lands, and particularly
the large unenclosed tracts on the hills and mountains in the Usk Valley, within easy
reach of his Castle of Brecknock.
These lands formed what would be called to-day his hunting country, the thick oak
and mixed woods of the smaller valleys holding an abundance of game, and the open bare
hills above giving free scope to follow in pursuit of the chase.
And one portion of such lands, which lay together in a favourable position, it was
resolved to keep as a Forest, to be governed by the strict Norman Forestal laws of those
times, and to be reserved mainly for wild beasts and deer (feris et cervis), and the larger
kind of game. Within the pi'ecincts of the defined Forest land no person was allowed to
enter without possessing a pass signed by Bernard Newmarch, or his successors, and the
Chief Verderer or Forester in charge of the Forest land.
The land thus selected as a Forest was that which we know still as the Great
Forest of Brecknock, and which, up to the passing of the Inclosure Act of 1815, contained
about 40,000 acres, or an area of ten miles square. It lay mainly on the south side of the
Usk Valley, between the Tarell and the source of the Usk river, but extended over
Van gihirach and the Beacon range of mountains, and down the valley of the Tawe river
nearly to Ystradgynlais, and down the valleys of the Hepste, Llia, and Nedd rivers to
Ystradfellte. The summit of this mountain range was bleak and wild, being more than
2,000 ft. high, whilst the Usk Valley slopes, intersected by many streams, were well wooded
and sheltered. The soil was naturally strong, being mainly the Old Red Sandstone, and the
pasturage abundant and sweet, excepting certain portions at the sources of the Tawe and
Haffes rivers, where many hundreds of acres were a desolate waste of " mawn pits," rough
stones, etc.
No early record of the boundaries of this Forest land exists, and the first we have is
that given by Mr. Hassell, of Eastwood, Pembrokeshire, a surveyor employed by the
Crown officers to make a report to them on the Forest in 1795. It is stated that the
information was given him by Mr. Philip Morgan, the well-known collector of the Forest
dues on behalf of Sir Charles Morgan, the Crown lessee.
The boundaries are thus described in the old paper : —
" THE BOUNDARY of the GREAT FOREST OP BRECKNOCK in the County of Brecknock
begins at the Spring of the River Usk (Blaiiewysc), situate on the North side of the Long
Vann (Vann hyr), and following the Course of the Usk is the Boundary between the
Counties of Carmarthen and Brecknock until it enters the Parish of Llywell in the County
of Brecknock, and thence to Abercray, where the River Cray falls into the Usk. Up the
River Cray to Tygwynyn Cray, and thence in an Eastward direction to Clwyd y Cae
Newydd, and thence to Nantddii, and up Nantddu to its Source, and along an old Water-
course southwardly to Cniwer, and up Cniwer to the Road leading from Ystradgunlais to
Brecknock, thence Northwardly along an ancient Watercourse leading to Bailygwern Mill
VOL. II. u
. (142)
at Bleantrewerren, and down Trewerren Brook to Senny River, and thence to the River
Usk.
" But it must be noted here that the Lauds called Waynverra ucha Waynverra Tssa
Caiau William Frees Trephilip and the Castle, all belonging to Sir Charles Morgan, Bart.,
and lying adjoining to the West side of Trewerren and Senny Rivera, are within the
Boundary of the Great Forest, and are parts and parcels thereof. From the junction of
Senny with the Usk the Boundary goes down the Usk to Abercamlais, and up the Camlais
to Bleancamlais, and thence between Twyn Camlais and the Hamlet of Glynn to or near a
Spring called Ffynon Ynisgron, and thence along an ancient Highway leading from
Ystradvellte to Brecknock, until it arrives at the Boundary dividing the parishes of Devyn-
nock and Llanspuydyd, and thence down a small Brook Eastwardly to Tyr y Bwl and the
River Tarrcll.
"Up the Tarrell till it receives Paddegge Brook, and up that Brook to its source
upon the Gern Hill, and thence in a direct line Southwardly to the Southern point of the
said Hill nntill it meets an ancient Highway called Tallerdderry, and along Tallerdderry
Southwestwardly until it meets the Turnpick Road leading from Brecknock to Merthyr
Tydvill in Glamorganshire, and along the said Turnpick Road to the New Bridge upon the
River Taff. Thence down the River Taff to Rhyd Issa ar daf and up a small Brook called
Nantbennig, which is the Boundary between the Parish of Devynnock and Cantref, to a
tump upon the said Boundary, and thence in a direct line Southwardly to a Brook called
Gwrriad, and along the said Brook to its junction with Hepste River between the parishes
of Ystradvellte and Peuderryn, thence down Hepste River to its junction with Mellte
River by a small Brook which is the Boundary between the Great Forest and the Lordship
of Troscoed, belonging to Walter Jeffreys, Esq., and up that Brook to its source, and
thence 'ross the Turnpick Road leading from Brecknock to Pont Neth vechan in a direct
line to the Brook called Nant y Coirin, and down the said last mentioned Brook to Neath
River, thence down Neath River to its Junction with the Pwrddyu River, which is the
Boundary of the Counties of Brecknock and Glamorganshire. Thence np Pwrddyn to
panwen pwrddyn, and thence up a Brook called Nanty vedwen between the Parishes of
Ystradgunlais and Ystradvellte, untill the said Brook reaches the uninclosed Lands of
Great Forest, and thence along the Fence thereof Westwardly to Ton y Spuddaden and to
a Brook called Nantyffyn, and down Nantyffyn to the River Tawe. Down the Tawe to
Dwfnant and up Dwfnant to its scourge, and thence in a direct line running between the
Lordship of Garth and the Great Forest over the open Lands called Carreg Coch to the
Highway leading from Glyn Tawe to Llanddoissant in Carmarthenshire, and thence along
the said Highway across the River Gyedd to Tair Drainen at Blaenguys, and thence to the
River Turck on the Borders of the County of Carmarthen, where a small Brook called
Nanty winny vach falls into the said River. Up the River Twrch to its source at Blane
Twrch, from whence a line drawn between the Hills called the Brecknockshire Vann, and
the Carmarthenshire Vann to Blane Wysc, completes the Boundary of the GREAT FOREST
of BRECKNOCK."
Next we have a brief description of the boundaries*by our county historian, in a note
to p. 190 of vol. i of his History of Breconshire : —
" The boundary of the great forest commences on the north-east, with the fall of the
river Camlais into the Usk ; it proceeds up this latter river to its source, being intersected
opposite Rhyd y briwby the manor of the little forest; it then follows the line of boundary
between Glamorganshire and Breconshire to the Taaf fawr ; here it proceeds upwards to
the bridge which crosses the turnpike road from Brecon to Merthyr, near the eighth mile-
stone ; the boundary here is upon the north side of the Taaf upwards to the source of a
brook called Podagau, leaving the western van or beacon close upon the right : down this
brook to the Tarell, which it crosses, and then proceeds in nearly a strait line to the source
of the Camlais, the boundary to the fall, where it commenced."
More or less these descriptions were vague, and not proved in any formal manner,
though fairly accurate, and the Great Forest Inclosure Commissioners in 1815 had a
formal survey of the boundaries made. Their report is as follows : —
(143)
BOUNDARIES OF THE GREAT FOREST OF BRECKNOCK.
" We, the Commissioners named and appointed by a certain Act of Parliament passed
in 55th year of His present Majesty (Geo. Ill), intituled ' An Act to amend an Act made
in the 48th year of his present Majesty to improve the Land Revenue of the Crown, so
far as relates to the Great Forest of Brecknock, in the County of Brecknock, and for
vesting in his Majesty certain parts of the said Forest, and for enclosing the said Forest' : —
" Do hereby give Notice, that in pursuance of our public Notice for that purpose
given, we have perambulated the Boundary of the Great Forest of Brecknock, and have
also examined witnesses for the purpose of more completely ascertaining the same ; and that
we have accordingly ascertained, set, and determined, and fixed such Boundary according to
the following descriptions thereof, that is to say : —
" It commences at a Spring in the Parish of Devynnock, called Ffynuon Ynis Gron,
and proceeds from thence in an eastwardly direction along the Ancient Highway leading
from the Town of Brecknock to the Town of Neath, in the County of Glamorgan, down to a
newly. cut furrow, which forms the reputed boundary in that place between the Parishes of
Devynnock and Llanspyddid.
" From that furrow it (the boundary), changes to a south-easterly direction (by turning
to the right) to a Cottage upon a Farm, called Arcoed Llwyd, in the Parish of Devynnock
aforesaid, and which Cottage stands at the Top of a Road leading from the Common, called
Mynidd Illtid , down to the Arcoed Llwyd Farm House.
"The boundary then follows that Road to the Head of a Spring, the stream or course
of which it follows in an eastwardly direction down to a Dwelling House upon the Road
leading from Brecknock to Merthyr Tydfill, called Tyr y Bull,
"And crossing the last-mentioned Road opposite such House, it continueth the course
of the Brook before mentioned till it meete with River Tarell, the course of which River it
follows up to the place where the Pathegy Brook falls into it, and proceeds up that Brook
to its source on the Gyrn Hill.
" From thence (the boundary proceeds) in a straight southward!}' direction (as marked
out) down to a place called Cloddier Hendref, from there down a Small Ravine into the
Taff River.
" Which River it follows to a Bridge upon the Brecknock and Merthyr Tydfil Turn-
pike Road, and then continues with the River, till it comes to a ford upon it, called Rhydissa
Taff, whence it crosses the River, and ascends the Hill in a Southward direction, passing by
three large stones in a direct line to the Nant-yr-eira Brook, following that Brook nearly to
its source, and then turning westwardly to a Tump, where a mark is made.
"From thence it proceeds in a straight line down to the Head of a Brook, called
Gwrriad, and continuing that Brook till it joins the Hepstey, which it follows to its con-
fluence with the Melltey River.
" From the confluence the Boundary proceeds down the Melltey River, until it
receives a Brook (which divides the Great Forest from the Manor of Troescoed) to its
termination in a piece of land, where the Road from Brecknock to Pont Neath Vaughan
enters through a Gate. Then following the fence of that piece of land to the Gate in a
northern direction, and (crossing the road) it follows the fence, which is irregular, in a
South and South- Western direction to the Brook called Nanty corrin, following the same
until its junction with the Pwrddyn River.
"And from that place up the River Pwrddyn to Banwen Pwrddyn, from Banwen
Pwrddyn it follows a Brook called Pantyvedwen, until such Brook reaches the uninclosed
lands of the Forest, from thence along the Fence separating the inclosed from the unin-
closed laud in a Northern direction to a place called Ton y Spuddadin, and thence ou
with the Fence (which extends to a point near the Cwmllech House) in a western direction,
and then proceeds with the fence to the Nantyfin Brook down to the River Tawe.
" And proceeding with that River to the place where it receives the Dufnant Brook,
it then follows the Dnfnant Brook to its source, and from thence nearly in a direct line
thro' a small Ravine between the Waste belonging to the Garth Hamlet and the Forest to
a stone on the Hill, called Carrig ar Cap.
(144)
" From thence on to a Rock called Castell y Gyfer, and then on to a Road called
Grose fordd, following the Grose fordd to a place called Twyn yr Alven (where the
letters G. H. are cut in the grass), thence on by Pwlleig crossing the brook called Giaidd,
and continuing in a Northern direction to some stones called Carne Grwys.
" From thence to Blaen gwyn, and then in a North-western line to the River Twrch,
at the place where the Nantygwynney Voll Brook falls into it. Then following the River
Twrch to its source at Blaentwrch, from thence skirting the Breconshire Vann down to the
source of the River Usk.
"And following that River to the place where it receives the Cray, proceeding with
the last mentioned River to the House called Ty gwyn yn Cray. From thence up a Fence
(dividing Cae Hyny from the Ty gwyn laud) a part of the waste land called Cae Crwn,
and proceeding with the fence by the Gate called Clwyd y Cae Newydd to the Nantddu
brook, and following that brook to its source.
" From thence down the Nantgynney Brook to the Devynnock and Ystradgynlais
Road, and along that Road to the place where the Cnewr Brook crosses it, and proceeding
with that Brook to the place where the Brecknock and Ystradgynlais road crosses it.
" Continuing the last mentioned to the part of it where the Treweren crosses it, and
then following that Brook to its junction with the Senny River.
" The Boundary then follows the Senuy River to its confluence with the Usk, to the
place where the Camlais Brook comes into it, proceeding up with that Brook to the place
before mentioned, called Ffynnon yuis gron, which terminates the Boundary."
"Dated this 15th day of November, 1815.
" Sd. HENRY DE BRUYN.
" Sd. JOHN CHEESE."
It will be desirable at this point to clear from our view of the Great Forest lands,
the Little Forest, and also the Forest Mills. Botli were let at an early period separately
from the Agistment or herbage of the Great Forest, but when that separation first
occurred, there is no record extant.
The Little Forest comprised the loop of land running up from the Usk between the
Crai and Treweren brooks, and which we have seen was excluded from tho Great Forest
in the Perambulation ; and the Forest Mills were those eight mills within the Great Forest,
placed here and there, and which are described in Parliamentary Surveys in Vol. I of
these memoranda ; and six of these mills are mentioned in the Particulars of Sale Bill
of 1799.
BRECONSHIRE.
To be Sold by Auction,
at the
Swan Inn,
in the
Town of Brecon,
On Saturday, the 23rd day of March next,
Beginning at Three o'clock in the Afternoon,
Subject to such Conditions as shall be then produced,
The King's Mills,
In the following lots, viz. :
Lot I. Ystradvelltey Mill.
II. Pwllcoch Mill.
III. Glyntawy Mill.
IV. Senny Mill.
V. Devynnock Mill.
VI. Trecastle Mill.
(145)
For Particulars apply to Mr. Watkins, or Mr. Morgan, at Uevynnock ; or Messrs.
W. and J. Powell, Brecon.
Brecon, Feb. 23, 1799.
Brecknock : Printed by W. and G. North.
We must also note here, that while the Great Forest was nominally within the
Lordship of Brecon Castle, it was from a very early date treated as a distinct property, and
was retained in the hands of the Crown long after they had parted with the Brecon
Lordship. The tenants of the Lordship of Brecon, however, seem to have possessed the
right of grazing within the Forest, and obtaining lime from the Forest quarries, at an early
period, and to have retained such long after the severance of the ownership of the Forest
from that of the Lordship had taken place, and in fact down to the present time. We
may, I think, consider that at first the Forest lands were purely such, subject to forestal
laws, and not to any manorial customs and payments ; while the Lordship (outside the
Forest boundary) had from the first, and still retains the character, customs, and payments
incident to a manor ; and it would seem that when in very early times, before even the
reign of Richard III, the Forest laws were relaxed, and pasturage was allowed to the
immediate neighbours of the Forest, a similar favour and right was conferred on all the
tenants of the Lordship, if it was convenient to them, and if the)' chose to exercise it.
And we may assume that with this general invasion of grazing rights, the big game,
or ferae et cervi, reserved in the various Crown leases, disappeared, and existed only
nominally in the Forest afterwards.
And the owners of Brecon Castle were doubtless glad to receive the proceeds of the
Agistment rents.
We now come to an important epoch in the history of the Forest in 1484, when
Richard III directly intervened in some way, as guardian of the Lord of Brecknock
Castle, then a minor, and reduced the rate of payment per head for cattle turned on the
Forest from 3d. to Id.
And this is fully dealt with in the report of the famous expert, Mr. W. Illingworth,
who was consulted on behalf of the tenants of the Forest, when their case was prepared for
an impending trial against the Crown relating to their Forest rights.
GREAT FOREST OF BRECON.
MR. ILLINGWORTH'S REPORT, 1813.
The Great Forest, as usually called, of Brecon, or Brecknock, is a large Common or
pasture containing many Miles in extent, situated within and parcel of the Manor or
Lordship of Brecknock.
At the Conquest of Wales, when that principality became annexed by Stat. 12 Edw. I
to the Crown of England, Humphrey de Bohun, Earl of Hereford, was Lord of Brecknock ;
in whose Descendants the Castle, Manor and Lordship of Brecknock, including therein the
Forest in question, continued, until the Attainder of Henry, Duke of Buckingham, in the
first year of Rich. III.
UPON and over this Forest the Tenants and Inhabitants of the Lordship of Brecknock
had a right from the earliest period of depasturing their cattle, paying to the Lords of the
Manor a certain annual paym't known by the usage and custom of the Forest under the
Term Kyveryve, that is, a certain Rate or Computation per head of Cattle. The ancient
Rate of Kyverye, previously to the Reign of Rich. Ill was 3d per head, but w/ien that King
became Lord of Brecknock, it was reduced by an Indenture made between him and his
Tenants and Inhabitants of the Forest, in the first year of his Reign, to the sum of one
(146)
penny per head. In that Indenture he granted to all his Tenants, Hesiants, and Inhabitants
of the said Great Forest within his Lordship of Brecknock free liberty and passage thro'
the said Forest, and Water and pasture in the .Mountains, Hills, and Vallies thereof, for
the nourishing of their Beasts and Cattle, paying unto the said King for every head (or
poll) one penny after the said Rate of Kyverye, as hereafter more particularly set forth.
THIS Right of Common, or several pasture, according to the last Rate has continued to
be exercised by the Inhabitants of the whole Lordship from the Reign of Rich. Ill to the
present time, and such Right, has not only been acquiesced in and acknowledged by the
Crown by numerous written Documents and Records, but has even been expressly con-
firmed by Letters patent.
THE Records and other written Instruments hereafter referred to, have been collected
towards proving the above statement.
SEVERAL Inquisitions and Extents, preserved at the Tower, taken on the death of the
Bohuns, Earls of Hereford (Edward I to III) shew them to have been Lords of Brecknock ;
but the earliest Instrument of that nature, noticing the Forest, is an Inquisition [Escheat
A.D. 10 Edw. HI, No. 62] taken on the death of John de Bohun, Eai'l of Hereford,
A.D. 10 Edw. Ill, who is therein stated to have died seised of,
" THE CASTLE AXD MANOR OF BKEGHENOK."
In setting out the Extent and Valuation of the Manor, it is stated (inter alia)
" And there is a certain Forest called Forest Vaglian (Little Forest), the pasture
whereof is worth by the year 40s. "
And again
" And there are there from Rents of the Welch for the Great Forest Thirty pounds
per annum, payable at the feast of St. John the Baptist for the whole year."
ANOTHER Inquisition, taken on the death of Humphrey, Earl of Hereford,
A.D. 38 Hen. VI, notices the Forest more particularly. It says the Earl died seized {inter
alia) of
" The Castle, Manor, and Lordship of Brecknock with its Members and Appurts."
And in setting out the particulars and Extent and Valuation thereof, that
" There is there a certain Forest called the Great Forest of Brecon, the Herbage
whereof, with other profits, to be taken according to the Custom there, is
worth per annum Forty pounds.
" And there is there another Forest called the Little Forest of Brecon, the Herbage
whereof, with other profits, to be taken in the same Forest, is worth per
Annum Six pounds." [Escheat A.D. 38 and 39 Henry VI, No. 59].
IN the particular for a Lease for twenty-one years of the Agistment of the Great
Forest, A.D. Eliz., 1567, in the Augmentation Office, is the following Passage: —
" Item, another parte of the decaye groweth in this, that sometime (that is hereto-
fore) a Kyflfryve, that is to saie, every heade of some kinde of Cattell and a
certain nombre of others makinge a p'portioned Recconinge whiche by custome
is well knownen did yeld 3d. for Herbage, which since by the Indentures above
remembered are brought to a Id. a Kyft'ryve, according to which Rate the
Inhabitants nowe paie."
Mr. Illingworth, in his Report, now goes back to the time of Richard III, and writes
as follows : —
" HENRY, Duke of Buckingham, succeeded to the last Duke, but was executed and
attainted of High Treason, A.D. 1 Rio. 3, and by the Act of Attainder all the Castles,
Manors, Lordships, etc., and Heredits of the said Henry, Duke of Buckingham, were
declared to be forfeited to the King and his heirs." [A.D. 1 Ric. Ill, Rot, Parl., No. 3].
(147)
King Richard III [A.D. eodem, 19 Feb.], then being Lord of Brecknock, by an Inden-
ture under his privy signet and sign manual, and made and indented between himself and
the Tenants, liesiants, and Inhabitants of the Great Forest within his Lordship of
Brecknock, granted as follows :—
[Henricus Octavus Dei gra' Anglie & Franoie Rex Fidei Defensor Dn's Hib'uie
Om'ibz ad quos p'sentes I've pre'int salt'm, INSPEXIMUS quandam [ndeuturam
inter Dmn R' nup Begem Ariglie p'genitorem nr'm ex una pte, et om'es
Tenentes, Residentes, & Inliabitautes magne Foreste in Dn'io de Breknok in
Wallia ex alta pte, and secreto signeto suo ut dicitur sigillatam ac signo
manual suo signatam factam in hec verba.]
" THIS INDENTURE made bitwoen the moste excellent and crysten prynce Richard,
by the grace of God Kyng of Englonde and Lorde of Ireland on the one p'tie,
and all the Tenn'ts, Becyaunts, and Inhabytaunts of the great Foreste in his
Lordship of Breknok in Wales on the other p'tie, WITNESSITH that where as
our sayd sov'aigne Lorde at the humble supplication of the sayd Tenn'ts,
Recyaunts, and Inhabytaunts there, and for the favo'r, ease, and well of all
lyege people, of his especiall grace and by his gracious 1'res patents hath
graunted free libertie and free passage to all his sayd subjects to passe and
repasse through and by his sayd great Forest and in eny p'te thereof, as well
on Horsebuk, and a fote w't. all man'r of Marchaundizes as by the sayd 1'res
patents more pleynly it apperith.
" AND WHERE also as the said Tenn'ts, Recyaunts, anj Inhabitants within the said
Forest by the said Supplication have desired of his said Highnes to have Water
and pasture for the fedying of their Bests and Catalls in Hilles, Mounteyns, and
Valeys of the said great Forest w'oute any thyng paying therfor to liis said
Highues, Our sayd sov'aigne Lord of hys most habundauut grace and mercy,
ponderyng the poverty of hys said Supplicants and the gieat charges restyng
upon them yerely unto his Highues, hath graunted by these p'seutes unto his
said liegemen and suppliants fre lib'tie to have Water and Pasture in the said
Mouutaynes, Hilles, and Valeys of the said Forest for the nory ashing of their
Bestys and Catall, PAYING unto his Highnes for every Polle of the said Bests
and Catall a penny after the rate and computacion of Kyfryve, kuowen by
usage and custume of the said Forest, and also to all the Inhabitants of the said
Lordeship of Breknok, onely having any Bestys or Catell hauntyng the sayd
Forest for Water and Pasture, a penny for ev'y polle after the rate and forme
abovesaid.
"ALSO our sayd sov'aigne Lord by these p'sents commaundeth all his Officers beyug
there as for the tyme to \vhome that longeth, to sett and putt hys said Forest
to ferme on Maye daye to him or to them that graur.tith moste, therefore
ordynate (order) warnyng p'clamyd (proclaimed) before at the High Crosse in
the Town of Brekuok on the Market t Daye mmediately before Maye Daye,
takyng sureties of the Fermours therof in hys Escheker at Breknok aforesayd
as the Custome thereof requyreth. AND in more straight and wytnes of the
grauntes abovesayd made by our sayd sov'aigne Lord to the said Tenn'ts.
Recyaunts, and Inhabitaunts there, our sayd sov'aigne Lord hath comaunded
hys secrete signett to these Indenture to be putt, confermyng the same w't'
his gracious signe manuell.
"Geven at his palace at Westmynster the xixth day of Februarie, the first yere of
his reigue."
[Et hoc om'ihus quoz interest iniiotescims p'sentes. In cujus rei testionio has 1'ras
n'ras fieri fecimus patentes, Teste me i'po af'm'd West' decimo septimo die
Maij anno regni n'ri tricesimo.]
This Inspeximus is enrolled in a Book of Enrolments at the Auditors' Office for
Wales, Ac. 1, Edw. VI.
The Indenture of King Richard, not being a Matter of Record wherby the King co'd
lawfully grant to bind the Crown, the words " Inuotescimus" was the proper word to be
(148)
used in Heniy VIII's Letters patent, as is always the case in Letters patent reciting a
Charter of Feoffment or other Instrum't not of Record. (See Page's Case 5 Reports, p. 52.)
And this word is not to be found in any of the Forms of Confirmation prescribed in
the Forma Confirmations Cartarum, A.D. 13 Edw. I, Stat. 6, Ruffheads's Append.
It is to be remarked that this Instrument is not entered on any Record of the time,
nor is the original extant; it is, however, noticed in all the Ministers' Accounts of the
Crown, first in the ninth year of Henry VII, when Edward Duke of Buckingham was in
Wardship of the Crown, and after in every year from the 13 Hen. VIII to the 17 Jac. I ;
and in one account, the 30 Hen. VIII., it is enrolled verbatim, from an Inspeximus under
the Great Seal dated 17th May, A.D. 30 Hen. VIII, but it is to be lamented that the
enrolment of this Inspeximus has not yet been discovered, except on such Minister's
account.
And Mr. Illingworth then proceeds : —
"THE Attainder of Henry Duke of Buckingham was this year reversed, and Edward
his Son and Heir was restored to the Title and Estates of his Father ; but being then a
Minor, was declared by the Act to be in Wardship of the Crown.!> [A.D. 1 Hen. VII,
Rot. Parl., No. 13.]
IN a Receiver's Account [A.D. Hen. VII, Ministers' Account] preserved in the Court
of Exchequer, that Officer, in answering for the Farm of the Agistment of the great Forest,
states a decrease in the Amount between that and the former Reigns in consequence of
King Richard the Third's Grant, as follows : —
MANOR OP BRECON. — The Account of David ap John Steward there, from the feast
of Saint Michael the Archangel in the ninth year of the Reign of King Hen.
the VII to the same Feast of St. Michael then next following, in the tenth
year of the same King, that is, for one whole year.
OFFICE OF RECEIVER OF BRECON. — The Account of S'r Rees ap Thomas Knight,
Receiver for the time aforesaid, by John ap Gro ap Muric, his Deputy,
accounting for the same for the time aforesaid.
The Receiver, after accounting under the heads of
Arrears New Rents
Rents of Assise Advocaria and
Comortha Small Farm
answers as follows : —
GREAT FARM.— For £26 13s. 4d lately received from the Farm for executing the
Office underwritten, as agreed by the Lord with the Officer there, payable at
the Feasts of St. Leonard and the Apostles Philip and James, as is contained
in the Account of the Receiver there of the 38th year of King Henry VI,
that is, for the aforesaid time of the Account he answers not, because no Officer
would vouch for the said Farm this year, as is contained in the Acco't of the
Receiver there of the twenty-second year of King Edw. IV, late King of
England. Nor does he answer for £93 8s. id. in the twenty-second year of
King Edward IV, for the farm of the Agistment of the great Forest there so
then demised to Howell ap Rees ap Watkin, Ho ap David Gwyn, Jevan ap
Morgan, Walter Havard and their Fellows, as is contained in the Account of
the Receiver of Brecon of the said twenty-second year of King Edward IV,
payable at the feasts of St. Leonard, the invention of the Holy Cross, the
Nativity of St. John the Baptist, and the decollation of the same, in manner
as was answered for clear in the account of the thirty-eighth year of the said
late King Henry VI, and in divers other preceding Accounts over and above
15s. of the same Farm then yearly deducted and allowed at the foot of the
same Accounts, when he used to vouch without any deduction for £94 3s. 4<f.,
and before for £110, as is contained in the Account of the Receiver there for
the twenty-second year of the said late King Edward IV, upon this Account
(149)
examined and shown, that is, for the aforesaid time of this Account. INASMUCH
as that Richard III., late King of England, by his Letters Patent under the
Great Seal of England, dated at Westtn'r the 14th day of May, in the first
year of his Reign, for certain urgent Causes him moving of his special grace
and mere motion for himself and his heirs granted and gave licence for ever to
his beloved and faithful subjects, and to all and singular his Tenants, Resiants,
and Inhabitants within the parish of Devynnok within his great Forest there,
that they and their Ministers and Servants who then were and thereafter
should be, and also to all other persons of what condition soever they might
be, should for ever thereafter have entry, passage, and egress for themselves,
and their Cattle, Carriages, Goods, Wares, and Merchandizes in all places
whatsoever and within all the Forest aforesaid and every part thereof and all
the limits and bounds of the same without anything to be therefore rendered,
paid, or forfeited, as in the aforesaid Letters patent upon the Account of the
'2nd year of the same King Richard shewn is more fully contained.
And inasmuch also that the same late King by other Letters under his privy signet
and signed with his sign Manual, dated at NVestm'r the 20th day of February
in his first year, made and indented between himself and his Tenants, Resiants,
and Inhabitants of the great Forest aforesaid, whereby he granted to them and
to every one of them who then were or thereafter might be, Water and pasture
in the Mountains, Hills and Vallies within the said Forest, for the depasturing
and feeding of their Beasts and Cattle, paying therefore yearly to the said
Lord the King and his Heirs Lord of Brecon for every pole one penny,
according to the rate and computation of Kyfryve known by the usage and
custom of the said Forest. And the same late King also willed by the same
his Letters and he commanded to his Officers there that proclamation should
be publickly made in the open Market place within the Forest of Brecon on
the Market day if any one would give the most for the farm of the said Forest
he should observe the Grant of the said late King above noticed, the aforesaid
Accountant could find no such Farmer there who would continue the said
ancient farm for the Sum aforesaid, or who would in any wise take or occupy
the same save only according to the form of the proclamation above recited as
he saith upon his Oath. WHEREFORE the Council of the Lord the King must
be conferred with.
But he answers for sixteen pounds for the farm of the Agistment of Cattle agisted
in the said Forest, so devised to Jevau ap Morgan ap Jevan, Gwyn Thomas ap
Gro ap Eees, and their Fellows this year by proclamation above in the Article
next before recited, payable at the Terms of Saint Leonard the Abbot, the
Apostles Philip and James, the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist, and the
decollation of the same in equal portions, that is for such four terms falling
within the time of this Account. [A.D. Henry 7, Minister's Account.]
Mr. Illingworth then proceeds : —
" EDWARD Duke of Buckingham was executed for High Treason, and all his possessions
seized. [A.D. 12 Hen. 8, A.D. 1521.]
" IN the Chapter House at Westminster is preserved a Book containing a Survey of
all the Castles, Honors, Lordships, etc., etc., of the Duke and (inter alia) of the Lordship
and Manor of Brecknock, wherein the great Forest is described as parcel thereof. [A.D.
13 Hen. 8, A.D. 1522, Survey.]
"AN Act of Attainder of Edward Duke of Buckingham, and for vesting his Estates in
the Crown. [A.D. 14 and 15 Hen. 8.]
" RECEIVER'S Account of the Lordship of Brecon, wherein under the head of the Great
Farm he answers for £94 3s. 4<f. for the farm of the Agistment of the Great Forest, and in
his Allowances takes Credit for £86 18«. 8d deficiency, by reason of two several Grants
made by King Richard the Third of the pasture of the Great Forest ; and he here sets out
such Grant and the Inspeximus thereof verbatim. [A.D. 30 Hen. 8.]
VOL. n. x
(150)
" DURING the reign of Queen Elizabeth several Leases were granted of the Agistment
of the Great Forest, in all of which the Lessees covenant to permit the Tenants, Resiants,
and Inhabitants of the Lordship of Brecknock to enjoy their Eight of Common of pasture
in the Great Forest, as they had enjoyed the same ab antique, and not to permit any other
persons to have such common of pasture.
"A particular of this date [A.D. 1567, Eliz.] preserved in the Augmentation Office,
for the granting of a Lease to one William Jones, is on this occasion very important, as
stating the ancient Kyffryve at 3d., but altered by King Richard the Third as follows : —
A Lease to William Jones of 21 years of the Agistment of the Great Forest ; in
which is the following Recital : —
WHEREAS the Tenants Resiants and Inhabitants within the Parish of Devynnock
within the Great Forest of Brecknock in our County of Brecon and others the
Tenants and Inhabitants within the Lordship of Brecknock claim to have
free passage throughout the whole Forest afs'd without rendering any thing
for the same and also Herbage of the Pasture with their Beasts and Cattle
in the same Forest rendering therefore to us and our Heirs for every Head
accord'g to the computation of Kyffryve One penny as well by force of a
certain Charter by our Progenitor Richard the 3rd dated at Westminster the
14th Day of May in the first year of his Reign for free passage made as of a
certain Indenture of the same our progenitor Richard the 3rd dated the 19
Day of Feb. in the s'd 1st year of his Reign, for payment of One penny
for every Kyffryve made, when of antient time every Travellor used to pay for
his Passage within the Forest afs'd such acknowledgement or Sum of Money
as the Officers of the late Duke of Buckingham Late Lord of the same Forest
chose to assess and Tax. And also every Tenant Inhabitant and Resiant
within the same Forest paid three pence for every head of their Beasts and
Cattle according to the Computation of Kyffryve ; by pretext wh'of and by
reason of a certain Act of Parliament touching the exactions of the Forests in
Wales [A.D. 27 Hen. 8, c. 7], amongst other things entitled " The ordinance
of Wales " the Agistment of the said Forest there hath not only fallen
into Decay of Rent £63 16s. 8d. per annum for Divers Years now last past
but the Tenants there by Reason of a certain bad Custom which has taken
place in the Annual Leasings of the same Forest claim the said Forest to be
leased to them from year to year at such Rent as they please to give for the
same Forest without any Fine to be therefore Rendered to our Disiuherison
and Great Injury.
KNOW YE, therefore, that as well in cons'on of Twenty pounds 6s. 8d. paid by the
s'd Wm. Junes into the Excheq'r etc. as also by Reason that the said William
Jones and his Assigns will hereafter more beneficially preserve the said Forest
to the Queen's use AND will also permit the Tenants Resiants and Inhabitants
of her Lordship of Brecknock and such other Persons heretofore have by
Custom Agistment for their Cattle, to have so much Agistment for their Cattle
as heretofore they lawfully used to have We have granted etc. To the said
William Jones etc.
ALL that the Agistment of Our Great Forest of Brecknock in our County of
Brecknock parcel of our Lordship of Brecknock in the s'd County of Breck-
nock, etc.
To HOLD etc. for the Term of 2 1 years etc.
Render'd etc. the Yearly Rent of £20 6s. Id.
COVENANT from Lessee to permit the Tenants Resiants and Inhabitants of the
Lordship of Brecknock etc. to have and enjoy passage Herbage and pastures
ab antique etc. and not to permit any other persons to have or enjoy the same
[Book of Enrolments Auditors Office, tempo Eliz. (E). p. 59 e. 12 July A.D.
9 Eliz.].
(151)
RECEIVER'S REPORT ON LEASE TO WILLIAM JONES.
" PARCEL OF THE LORDSHIP OF BRECKNOCK, PARCEL OF THE
POSSESSIONS OF EDWARD, DUKE OF BUCKINGHAM.
THE GREAT FOREST OF BRECKNOCK.
£ s. d.
Worth in Agistmeut of the same Forest, so formerly demised to divers
Tenants, paying at the feasts of Saint Leonard, the Invention of the
Holy Cross, the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, and the decollation of
the same, in equal portions before at £110 by the year . . 94 3 4
Reprises in Decay of the Agistment aforesaid by reason that the Tenants
together with the Resiants and Inhabitants within the parish of Dyvyunock
within the Forest aforesaid claim to have free passage thro' all the
Forest aforesaid without rendering any thing therefore, and also Herbage
' of the pasture with their Beasts and Cattle in the same. Rendering
therefore to the Queens Majesty for every Poll according to the com-
putation of the Kyffryve heretofore at 3d., now at Id., as appears as
well by a Charter of Richard the 3rd, late King of England, dated at
Westminster the 1 4th day of May in the first year of his Reign made for
free passage and by the Lord the late King Henry the 8th, confirmed
by his Letters under his Great Seal of England, dated the 17th day of
May in the 30th year of his reign in the Account of the same Year
enrolled verbatim, as by a certain Indenture of the said late King Richard
the 3rd dated the 19th day of Febry. in the first year of his Reign made
for payment of one penny for every Kyffryve and by the said late King
Henry the 8th confirmed by his Indenture dated the aforesaid 17th day
of May in the said 30th year of his Reign in the said Accompt likewise
enrolled verbatim. And so in decay of part of the Sum above charged
lately demised, communibus annis, now for £20 6s. 8>d. by the year, as
well by reason of an Act of Parliament touching the Exactions of Forests
in Wales amongst other things intituled " The Ordinance of YValles "
as by pretext of the several Grants aforesaid, as in very many Accounts
of the Years preceding appears . . . . 74 6 8
Remains clear per Annum . 20 6 8
" Md. I have made this particular according to the accompte of anno octavo Regine
Elizabeth, which riseth according to the said value, commubs annis.
" Itm. It is to be noted that in anncient tyme there were as well in this Foreste as in all
other Forestes in Wales certein grevous exaccoue uppon Passengers, in this Forest cut off
by speciall L'res patent, as before, and generally in all Forests by Acte of parliament,
since which is a p'te of the Cause of the said decaie.
" Itm. Another p'te of the decaie groweth in this, that sometime (i.e., formerly) a
Kyffryve, that is to sale, every heade of some kinde of cattell and a certein nombre of
others makinge pporconed (apportioned). Recconinge, which by custome is well knoweu
did yeld iijrf. for Herbage, which since by the Indentures above remembered are brought
to jd. a Kyffryve according to w'ch Rate the Inhabitants now pay.
" Itm. This is accustomed to be letten by proclamac'on made by the Bailief uppon
Male daie yerely to such as will give most for it which cornonly kepes at one Stint as
before.
(152)
•' Finally I take it good S'vice to let it by Lease at such Trust as your Honours shalbe
thoughte raeete, for that the Tenn'ts shall not p'soribe a custome to have it demised as
before by p'clamac'on, and to one of them, as some of them presently doo.
" viij. Junij 1567.
" Exr. p. Robtum Multon Dep'ut Audit."
li. s. d.
The clere yerely value of the p'misses ys [xxj Junij 1567 p. Willmo Jones] xx. vj. viij.
The Fyne at one years Rent for the consideracons above sp'ified amouuteth
to the some of . . . . . xx. vj. viij.
To be p'd in hande.
Make a Lease of the p'misses unto the said "Will'm Jones for xxj yeres, yeldiug to the
queues Ma'ie the said yerely Rente and paying to her Higues the Fyne above men-
c'oned. The Lease to have commencement from thannunciacon of our Ladye
last paste.
Th' excepc'ons coveun'ts and condic'ons to be souche as in like cases are appointed.
WINCHESTER. Wa. MILDMAY.
The aforesaid Wm. Jones and others are bound to the Lady the Queen by Obligation
remaining in the Exchequer for payment of the Rent aforesaid and for performance
of the other Covenants.
Ex'r p. me Henrico Fanshawe.
Mr. lllingworth then proceeds : —
" It may not be improper to notice in this place that the Rent reserved for the Agist-
ment vizt. £.20 6s. 8d. has continued in all the Leases from that period to the year 1770.
THE Lordship of Brecknock remained entirely in the Crown till this year [A.D. 14,
Jac. I, A.D. 1617], when the King granted it to S'r Fras. Bacon and others for 99 years,
in trust for Prince Charles.
KING CHAKLES granted the Reversion of the Manor and Lordship of Brecon to Wm.
Collins and Edw. Fenn as Trustees to the use of S'r Wm. Russell in fee, reserving a fee
farm rent of £44 [A.D. 7 Car. I].
N.B. — The Great Forest, as parcel of the Lordship of Brecon, is excepted out of the
grant by the following words : —
" All that the Forest called the Great Forest and the Soil and Agistment of the
same." (See Sale to Collins and Fenn, vol. i, p. 58.)
Sir William Russell released to the Earl of Pembroke [8 Car. I].
The Earl of Pembroke sold to Thos. Morgan, Esq. [1639].
THE Term of 99 years, created Jac. I, became vested in s'd Thos. Morgan, Esq., and
others, but in 1662 solely in him, under whom the present owner, S'r Chas. Morgan,
derives title.
The Parliamentary Survey. — In this year, 1650, a Survey of the Manor of Brecon
was made by Commissioners under the authority of the then Parliament, which is as
follows : —
BRECON.
Maneriu' de Brecon cum juribz membris et appurtenant. A SURVEY of certaine
• p'ticular p'cells of Land lyinge and beinge within the Manno' of Brecknock
and County of Brecon, p'sented to us to bee Crown Land and concealed though
the Manno' bee granted in fee farme, made and taken by us whose Names are
hereunto subscribed in the month of Janry., by virtue of a Commission
grounded uppon an Act of the Com'ons in parliam't assembled for the sale of
the Honnors, Manners, and Lands heretofore belonginge to the late Kinge
(153)
Queene and Prince, under the hands and scales of five or more of the Trustees
in the said Act named and appoynted.
ALL that the piece or p'cell of Grounde lyinge and beinge neere the Towne of
Brecon and within the County of Brecon com'only called and knowne by the
name of the Greate Forrest consistinge of a large Com'on or pasture by
estimation seaven miles in length or thereabouts.
Memorand' that the Inhabitants of the severall parishes of Devennooke, Llewell,
Glyntoy, Strodwelty, Pedoryn, Cantreflfe, Llanvygon, and Llandvettee, and
there p'decessours have time out of Minde had the beuefitt of the Herbage
there for all Beasts Sheepe and Horse, sanse number, for which there is yearly
payd by the severall Inhabitants of the aforesaid parishes the some of Twenty
pounds six shillings eight pence to be collected (in mode sequent) viz. for every
Cowe a penny, for every Horse Id. ob., and for every score of Sheepe fowre
pence. xx£. vjs. viijrf.
ALL that the Custome called a Comortha of Fifty six pounds sixteen shillinges
payable every second yeare within the Mannor of Brecon and County of Brecon
aforesaid, w'ch said somme of Fifty six pounds sixteen shillinges Wm.
Morgan, Esq., who hath the fee fanue of the said Mannor or his Steward or
Bayliffe for the time beiuge, hath allways beene accustomed to collect and
pay unto the Receiver of the late Kinge. Ivj7i xvjs.
Ex'r p. WILL WEBB, Sup'vis. Gen'll.
HEN. MAKEPEACE.
PETER PRICE. 1650.
JOHN MARRYATT.
JOHN LLOYD.
AND in a particular for the sale to David Morgan of parcel of the possessions of King
Charles and his Queen in the County of Brecon (Same year) intituled : —
COUNTY OF BRECON.
Parcell of the possessions of Charles Stuart and Henrietta Maria, late King and
Queen of England.
And all that (inter alia) the piece or parcel of Ground with the Appurt's lying and
being neere the Towne of Brecon, comonly called and knowne by the name of
the Great Forest, consisting of a large Com'on or pasture by estimation seaven
Miles in length or thereabouts.
Yearly value £20 6 8.
Memorandum, it is certified that the Inhabitants of the several parishes of Devin-
nock, Lewell, Glyntoy, Strodwellty, Pedoryn, Cantreffe, Llauvigon, and
Llanvettee and their predecess'rs have time out of Minde had the benefitt of
the herbage of the parcell of Ground, called the Great Forrest, for all Beasts
Sheepe and Horse withoute number, for w'ch there is yearely paied by the
sev'all Inhabitants of the aforesaid parishes the sum of xx£. vjs. viijc?., viz.,
for every Cowe a penny, for every Horse Id. ob. and for every score of
Sheep iiijeZ.
It must be here noticed that the Lordship of Brecknock comprehends several other
parishes besides those named in the Parliamentary Survey and in the above particular.
(Sgd.) W. ILLINGWORTH,
Record Office, Tower, 8th July, 1813.
(154)
MR. ILLINGWORTH'S BILL OF CHARGES.
GREAT FOREST OF BRECKNOCK.
1813. £ s. d.
1st July. — Attending Mr. Jones, Junr., on the Claim of the Inhabitants of the
Great Forest to Right of Common, and perusing papers on the
occasion, and taking Instructions for Searches into Eecords . 110
Attending at the Rolls Chapel, searching for King Richard the Third's
Grant to the Inhabitants, and also for Letters patent of the
30 Hen. 8, but without effect ; also searching for, perusing, and
bespeaking office copy Grant to the Inhabitants of Devynnock . 110
Searching into various Records at the Tower
2nd. — Attending at the Chapter House, Westminster, the whole day making
a General Search into the Records there, and inspecting several
Ministers' Accounts and Surveys of the Property of the Duke of
Buckingham whilst in wardship of the Crown . . .330
3rd. — The like this day, and also at the British Museum, and making long
Extracts therefrom . . . . .330
4th. — Attending the whole of this day from 10 to 4 o'clock at the Auditors
for Wales : searching into numerous Records there, and making
Extracts . . , . . .330
Attending at the Augmentation Office and in Gray's Inn at Mr. Caley's
Chambers from 5 till near 11 o'clock at night, searching into and
perusing numerous Ministers' Accounts of Brecon, and extracting
therefrom . . . . . .330
5th.— The like at the Auditors for Wales this day . .330
The like again at the Augmentation Office and in Gray's Inn till mid-
night . . . . . 330
6th. — The like at both the above offices as before . . .660
7th and 8th. — Drawing up Report of the result of my Searches in order to
lay same before Counsel (up the whole night), comprizing 13 Brief
Sheets . . . . 10 10 0
Two fair copies thereof . . . . .330
Attending Mr. Jones therewith at the Hummums . . .0134
9th, 10th, and 14th. — Attending at the Exchequer at Westminster, searching
thro' the Records there and the Books of Decrees, Bills, and answers
on each of these days . . . . .550
9th. — Attending Consultation at Mr. Holroyd's Chambers . .110
12th.— Attending again this day at the Auditors for Wales, 11 till 3 o'clock,
making further searches, when discovered Enrolment of the Exempli-
fication of Hen. '8 of the Indenture of Rio. 3 . .220
13th. — Copying and translating long Extracts of Lease 9° Eliz. and attending
Consultation at Mr. Holroyd's with Mr. Chitty . .220
17th.— Attending at the Auditors for Wales and concluded Searches 220
(155)
19th and 20th.— Attending Mr. Tatmton both days on the subject of the £ s. d.
Documents to be adduced in Evidence on the Trial, and going
through the whole case with him . . . .220
Retainer ffee to attend the Assizes at Hereford ; and on that account
keeping myself disengaged from attending any other Assizes which
might interfere therewith ... 21 0 0
Translations of the following Records : —
Inquisition on death of H. de Bohun, 10 Ed. 3 . fo. 16 1 4 0
The like „ Hump. Duke of Bucks, 39 Hen. 6 fo. 36 2 14 0
Grant to Tenants of Devounok, A.D. 1 Ric. 3 . fo. 15 1 2 6
Stewards Accts., A.D. 9 Hen. 7 . fo. 15 1 2 6
Ministers' Accts., 30 Hen. 8 . fo. 40 3 0 0
The like, 30 Hen. 8 . . f0. 180 1310 0
Lease to W. Jones, 9 Eliz. fo. 16 140
Do. E. Davys, 1 7 Eliz. fo. 15 126
Do. W. Jones, 23 Eliz. . . fo. 14 1 1 0
Do. R. Jones, 22 Car. 2 . . fo. 18 1 7 0
Do. Thos. Morgan, 5 W. and M. . fo. 15 1 2 6
A second fair copy of the above for the Judge . . . fo. 380 668
Paid the following ffees and Disbursements, viz. : —
At the Tower .... 928
Augmentation Office . . 24 10 10
Auditors for Wales . 1200
Exchequer ... 5 1 10
Chapter House . 330
Rolls' Chapel . . . 220
Coachhire and Postage of Letters . , . 100
57 0 4
£169 3 4
BRECON FOREST.
Gentlemen, — On the other side I take the liberty of sending to you my Account of
ffees and Disbursements herein ; your Draft for the Amount thereof will be esteemed a
Favour.
I have discovered a Lease to one E. Davys, 17 Elizabeth, reciting the surrender of a
former one to Walter Jones for 21 years of the Little Forest of Brecon at £7 per annum,
being the identical person named in the Decree in the Exchequer ; which puts that part of
the Case at rest, and shews the proceedings related only to the Little Forest.
Shall I deliver over the papers to Mr. Gregory, or pack them all up in a parcel and
send them to you ?
I dined 10 days ago with our friends Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd, at Clapham, when they
were very well.
I am, Gent.,
Very truly,
Your obedt. servt.
Record Office, Tower, (Sgd.) W. ILLINGWORTH.
29th Sept., 1813.
Messrs. Jones and Son, Brecon.
(156)
We have previously given on p. 59, Vol. I, a copy of the Agistment of the Great
Forest granted by Charles II in 1661 to Mr. Richard (not Rice) Jones.
And we now give a copy of the Grant of the Forest of Brecknock to William Morgan,
Esq., of Tredegar, in 1724 :—
THE PRINCE OF WALES TO WILLIAM MORGAN.
LEASE OF THE AGISTMENT OF THE GREAT FOREST OF
BRECON, 1724.
THIS INDENTURE, made the Fourth day of June in the Tenth year of the Eeign of
Our Sovereign Lord George, by the Grace of God of Great Britain, Ffrance, and Ireland,
King Defender of the Faith, et Annoque Domini One thousand seven hundred and Twenty
four,
BETWEEN his Royal Highness George, Prince of Wales, Electorate Prince of Brunswick
Lunenburgh, Duke of Cornwall and Rothsaye, Duke and Marquis of Cambridge, Earl of
Chester, Miltbrd Haven, and Cappel, Viscount Northallerton, Baron of Tewkesbury and
Renfrew, Lord of the Isles, and Steward of Scotland, and Knight of the Most Noble
Order of the Garter of the one Part, and William Morgan, of Tredegar, Esquire, of the
other part.
WITNESSETH that his said Royal Highness the Prince, for and in Consideration of the
Rents, Covenants, Conditions, Provisoes, and Agreements hereinafter mentioned and con-
tained on the part and behalfe of the said William Morgan, his Exors., etc., to be paid,
done and performed, and for divers other good Causes and Considerations his said Royall
Highness hereunto moving, HATH given, granted, and demised, and by these Presents, DOTH
give, grant, and demise unto the said William Morgan, his Exors, etc., the Agistment,
Herbage, and Pasturage of the Great Forest of Brecon in the County of Brecon, Parcel of
the Lordship of Brecon in the said County, late Parcell of the possession of Edward, Duke
of Bucks, Attainted of High Treason, and all and singular the Profits, Commodities, and
Advantages, Emoluments, and Hereditaments whatsoever to the aforesaid Agistment,
Herbage, and Pasturage belonging, and with the Forest aforesaid heretofore demised.
Except and always reserved out of this present Demise.
ALL Wild Beasts and Fallow Deer in the Forest of Brecon aforesaid, being and from
time to time yearly increasing, And also Herbage and Pasturage for the said Wild Beasts
and Fallow Deer, as formerly hath been used and accustomed. And also except and
always reserved out of this present Demise and Grant, all Great Trees, Woods, Under-
woods, Mines, and Quarries of the Premisses.
[WHICH said Premisses were heretofore demised to Thomas Morgan. Esquire, by
Letters Patents of their late Majesties, King William and Queen Mary under the Seal
of the Court of Exchequer, bearing date May 13 in the fifth year of their Reign.
To hold the Premisses above mentioned with their Appurtenances (except as before is
excepted) to the aforesaid Thomas Morgan, his Ex'ors from the end, expiration, or other
sooner determination of a Term of One and Thirty years heretofore demised to Richard
Jones, Gentleman, by Letters Patent of his late Majestie, King Charles the Second,
under the Seal of his Majesties Court of Exchequer, bearing date the 26th of September
in the 22nd year of his Reign, to the full end and term of twenty-two years from thence
next following, and fully to be compleat and ended. YIELDING and paying therefore yearly,
at the Feasts of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and Saint Michael, the
Archangel, into the Receipt of the Exchequer at Westminster or to the Hands of the
Bayliffe or Receiver of the Premisses by equal portions, the Sume of £20 6s. 8d. per
Annum, as in and by the said Letters Patent, relation being thereunto had may appeare.]
(157)
To have and to hold the said Agistment, Herbage, and Pasturage of the Great Forest
of Brecon, in the County of Brecon aforesaid, and all and singular other the Premisses
above by these presents demised or meant mentioned or intended to be hereby demised
with their and every of their Appurtenances (Except as before is excepted) unto the said
William Morgan his Ex'ors etc. from the day of the date of these Presents for and during
and unto the full end and terme of One and thirty years from thence next ensuing and
fully to be compleat and ended, YIELDING and PAYING therefore yearly and every year,
during the continuance of this present demise, the yearly Rent or Sume of £20 6s. 8d. of
lawful! Money of Great Britain, to be paid to the Hands of the Treasurer or Receiver
Generall of his Royal Highnesses Revenue for the time being, at the Feasts of Saint
Michael the Archangel, and the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, by even and
equal portions, the first payment to begin and be made on such of the said Feasts, as shall
happen next after the Date of these presents.
AND the said William Morgan for himselfe his Heirs Ex'ors etc. doth covenant and
agree to and with his said Royal Highness the Prince, his Heirs and Successors by these
Presents, that he the said William Morgan his Ex'ors shall and will every third yeare
during tlie Terme above by these Presents demised make and deliver or cause to be made
and delivered, unto his Royal Highnesses Auditor of the premisses for the time being, a
perfect Terrier and Particular of the aforesaid Forest of Brecon, distinctly observing and
demonstrating the true Quantity and Number of Acres and the Battalls (Buttals) and
Boundaries thereof.
AND ALSO that he the said William Morgan his Ex'ors shall suffer and permit all
other Tennants, Residents, and Inhabitants of the Lordship of Brecon aforesaid, and all
other persons who heretofore had or ought to have Passage, Herbage, and Agistment on
the Forest aforesaid, or on any Part thereof, to have and enjoy the same as heretofore
they were accustomed to have and enjoy the same.
PROVIDED always nevertheless that if it shall happen that the said yearly Rent or
Sume of £20 6s. 8d. above by these Presents reserved shall be behind or unpaid in part
or in all by the space of 40 days next after any of the Feasts or days of payment, on
which the same ought to be paid as aforesaid, OB if this present Demise or Grant shall not
be Inrolled before his Royall Highnesses Auditor of the Premisses or his sufficient Deputy
for the time being, within the Space of Six Months after the date of these Presents, that
then and from thenceforth in either of the said Cases, this present Demise and Grant shall
be void and of none effect, and that it shall and may be lawful! for his said Royall
Highness the Prince, his Heirs and Successors, by the Bayliffe or Receiver of the said
Premisses to enter upon the aforesaid Premisses, and the same have again, repossess, and
enjoy as in his and their former Estate, any thing in these Presents to the Contrary
thereof in any wise notwithstanding.
IN WITNESS whereof to one part of these present Indentures remaining with the said
William Morgan, the said most excellent Prince hath caused his Great Seal to be affixed,
and to the other Part thereof the said William Morgan hath sett his hand and seal the day
and year first above written.
TENCH,
Inrotulatur in Officio Auditoris Walliae
octavo die Julii 1724.
S. Godolphin Auditor.
As will be seen, the Grant was not made by the King, then George I, but by his son,
the Prince of Wales, and under what circumstances or by what title it was given I have
failed to discover ; and it will also be seen by the following letter from the Duchy of
Cornwall Office that they are unable to explain the matter : —
" Duchy of Cornwall Office,
" 2nd June, 1902.
" John Lloyd, Esqre.
" SIR, — In reply to your letter of the 30th ult., with enclosure, herewith returned, I
beg to inform you that previously to the Reign of Queen Anne, the eldest son of the
VOL. II. Y
(158)
Sovereign had from an early period, on being created Prince of Wales, usually received a
grant of the Possessions of the Principality.
" Your statement, therefore, that grants were made by James I and Charles I to their
eldest Son, the Prince of Wales, is no doubt correct. But in Queen Anne's Eeign, an Act
of Parliament (1 Anne, Stat. 1, Cap. 7) prohibited the alienation by the Sovereign of any
of the Possessions of the Crown, and no subsequent Grants were made. There are no
papers in this Office relating to those early grants, and this is probably due to the fact,
that at the time the Act was passed, there was no Prince of Wales and Duke of Cornwall,
the Duchy being vested in the Crown. There is, at any rate, no record that on the
subsequent creation of a Prince of Wales and the separate administration of the Duchy,
any papers relating to Welsh Estates were handed over.
" I am,
" M. HOLEMANN."
The previous leases, granted by Charles II in 1661 to Eichard Jones, and by William
and Mary to Thomas Morgan, Esq., in the Fifth of their reign, 1694, are recited in this
grant of 1724.
Before leaving this part of the Forest History, we append an old paper, supplying
a fuller account of the Grant of Richard III, and its confirmation by Henry VIII, than
that previously given.
BRECON, OFFICE OF RECEIVER.
THE ACCOUNT OF LLEN AP MORGAN AP DAVID GAME, RECEIVER OF THE LORD THE
KING THERE.
N.B. — The Account here sets out the Letters Patent appointing the said Accountant
to be Chancellor and Receiver for life of the Lordships of Brecon and Welch
Hay, etc., in the possession of the King by the forfeiture of Edward, Duke of
Buckingham, attainted of High Treason.
AFTER which the Accountant answers (inter alia) for
THE GREAT FARM.
For £26 13s. 4:d. lately received from the farm for executing the Office underwritten,
so agreed by the Lord with the Officer there payable at the feasts of St. Leonard and of
the Apostles Saint Philip aud James, as is contained in the Account of the Receiver of the
38th year of the late King Henry the 6th, that is to say during the said time of this
Account he answers not. BECAUSE no Officer would vouch the said sum this year as is
contained in the Account of the Receiver there of the 22nd year of King Edward the 4th,
late King of England. But he answers £94 3s. 4rf. for the FARM OF THE AGISTMENT OF
THE GREAT FOREST of the Lord the King, so demised to divers tenants of the Lordship,
there payable at the feasts of St. Leonard, the Invention of the Holy Cross, the Nativity
of St. John the Baptist, and the Decollation of the same. NEVERTHELESS he used to
vouch, without any deduction, for £110, as is contained in the Account of the Receiver of
the said 22nd year of the said late King Edward the 4th. And for £46 16s. 8d. for the
ffarm of all the Mills of the Lord the King in the County there, together with the Farm of
Leirewit, the A visage of Hogs within the fforest, and also with the Farm of the Fishery of
the Waters of Neth and Tawy, that is, of the Mills of Devynnok, Llwell, Grey, Senny
Kstradvelt, Glyntawy, and Pollough, so demised to divers Tenants of the Lordship there at
the ffeasts of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist and of the Decollation of the same
equally. FOR 14s. the Farm of Leirwit so demised per annum he answers not, BECAUSE
demised for the time aforesaid with the ffarm of the Mills in the next preceding particular
noticed. NOR does he answer for 60s for the avisage of Hogs in the aforesaid Great Forest,
(159)
BECAUSE demised also above written the sum of £46 16s. 8d. But he answers for ,£6 for
the Farm of the Agistinent of the LITTLE FOREST there so demised to Hugh Merrvin by
Indenture, etc.
Sum £148.
Sum of Allowances and Liveries, £161 17s. l\d.
And he owes £4,278 3s. llfrf.
OUT OF WHICH there is allowed to the said Accountant £6 13*. 2d., for the expences of the
Audit of the Receiver, Deputy Steward, and other Officers and Ministers surveying during
the time of the Audit, holden this year at Brecon, in the month of October, in the 30tli
year of the said now King Henry the 8th, etc., etc., etc.
AND (inter alia) there are allowed to the aforesaid Accountant as for so much money
charged upon the same Survey on the Title of the Great Farm to £94 3s. id. per annum
for the FARM OF THE AGISTMENT OP THE GREAT FOHEST of the Lord the King, so lately
demised to the Tenants and Inhabitants of the Lordship of Breckon aforesaid, BECAUSE
the aforesaid tenants and inhabitants together with the tenants, resiaats, and inhabitants
within the Parish of Devynnok within the same fforest claim to have free passage in and
through all the Forest aforesaid without rendering or paying any thing for the same, And
also Herbage and Pasture with their Beasts and Cattle in the same fforest, Rendering to
the aforesaid Lord the King for every Kyfryve Id., and for every other Beast under the
Kyfryve \d., IN MANNER as by the Charter of King Richard the 3rd, late King of
England, dated at Westminster the 14th day of May in the 1st year of his Reigu made for
free passage more fully appears, and by the aforesaid Lord the now King Henry the 8th
confirmed and corroborated in these words : —
[Henry the 8th by the Grace of God, King of England and France, Defender of the
faith, Lord of Ireland and on Earth the Supreme Head of the Church of England. To
ALL TO WHOM these present Letters shall come, Greeting, VVE HAVR INSPECTED the Charter
of the Lord, Richard, late King of England, our progenitor, made in these words.]
" RICHARD, by the Grace of God, King of England and France, and Lord of Ireland, To
ALL and singular our stewards, Rangers, Forresters, Officers, Bailiffs, and Ministers of
our Lordship of Brecknock in Wales and of our Great Forest who now are, and
hereafter shall be, and to the rest of our faithful Subjects, to whom these present
Letters shall come, Greeting.
"KNOW YK that we for certain urgent cmses us especially moving, of our especial
Grace and mere motion, have granted and given licence, for us and our heirs, as much as
in us is, to our beloved and faithful Subjects, all and singular the tenants, resiants, and
inhabitants, within the Parish of Devynnok, within our fforest aforesaid, that as well they
and every of them now tenants, resiants, and inhabitants, as all and singular those, who
shall be tenants and inhabitants within the parish aforesaid, and every of their Ministers
and Servants, who now are and who hereafter shall be, and also all other persons whom-
soever, of what condition soever, they shall be, may hereafter forever have ingress, passage,
and egress for themselves, cattle, carriages, Goods, wares, and Merchandizes whatsoever
throughout and within all our Forest aforesaid and every part thereof, and all the Limits
and Bounds of the same. And all and singular the Gates, Kntries, paths, ways, causeways,
and Bridges there wheresoever, whensoever, and as often-soever as any of them shall
happen to go, return, travel, pass, go through, or have Business or to carry their Mer-
chandizes, Wares, or Goods there through and within, as well the parts and places of the
said Forest prohibited and fineable for life and limb as other the parts and places of the
same Forest not prohibited and fineable, without the interruption, attachment, distress,
impediment, caption, imprisonment, punishment, loss of life or of any of their limbs by any
of the Officers or Ministers of us or of our heirs whomsoever there, to them or any of them
for any of the premises, according to the Law and Custom of the Forest aforesaid, used to
be imposed or attempted and without fine or forfeiture of their Goods, Wares, or Chattels,
or any redemption whatsoever to us or to our aforesaid heirs by them or any of them in
(160)
that behalf to be there made, sustained, forfeited, rendered, or in any wise incurred deed
(sic) without any custom, portage, pedage, or tribute, or any other thing or exaction what-
soever according to the custom of the Lordship or Forest aforesaid, to us or our heirs to
be therefore due, or to all officers or Ministers whomsoever of us or of our aforesaid heirs
to our use or of our heirs aforesaid or of any of them who shall have title or interest there
through us or our heirs' aforesaid to be therefore and thenceforth paid or rendered
for ever.
"AND we will and grant that all and singular the same tenants, resiants, and in-
habitants aforesaid who now are and hereafter shall be, and the servants and ministers
aforesaid, and also all other persons whomsoever from all and singular Customs, portages,
pedages, Tributes, and Exactions whatsoever to us or to our heirs aforesaid in any wise
according to the custom of the Lordship or Forest aforesaid by any of them due or to be
due, or from any of them to be hereafter demanded or claimed by any of the aforesaid
Officers of the Lordship or Forest aforesaid, by reason of the premises against us and our
heirs aforesaid and against all others whomsoever, shall be exonerated and for ever
acquitted.
" AND we prohibit as much, as by our Royal Authority, We can prohibit and by these
presents, \Ve do firmly ordain and decree that no Justice, Steward, Ranger, Forester,
Officer, Bailiff, or Minister of us or of our aforesaid heirs that now is or who shall be or -of
any others who shall hereafter have title or interest through us or our aforesaid heirs the
same tenants, resiauts, or inhabitants, who now are and who shall be, or their Servants or
Ministers or any other persons whomsoever or any of them through or within as well the
aforesaid parts and places of the said Forest, as is aforesaid prohibited and fineable as
aforesaid, as through the other parts and places aforesaid of the same Forest and the
Gates, Entries, paths, Ways, and Bridges aforesaid there, wheresoever, whensoever, or as
often-soever as any of them shall henceforth chance or make it convenient to go, return,
travel, ride, pass, go through, have business in, drive cattle or in any wise carry or convey
their Goods, Wares, or Merchandize with their Wains, Carts, and Cattle on those occasions
or any of them shall attach, impede, distrain, tnke, imprison, or in any wise punish, vex, or
disturb, but shall permit every of them therefore to enjoy firm peace. NOR shall hereafter
take or claim, or presume or attempt to take or claim any customs, pedage, portage, fines,
customs, or tribute, or other things or exactions whatsoever on the occasions aforesaid or
any of them according to the custom of the Lordship or Forest aforesaid heretofore in that
behalf hitherto used and had due or pertaining or accustomed to be levied from the
tenants, resiauts, or inhabitants, or their servants or ministers aforesaid or any of them, or
any person or persons whomsoever under pain of imprisonment of his Body and forfeiture
of his Goods at our pleasure, any customs, rights, ordinances, or usages whatsoever hereto-
fore there had, used, ordained, accustomed, or approved to the contrary, or altho' express
mention of the certainty of the premises or of any of them in these presents be not made,
or any other matter, cause, or thing whatsoever in any wise notwithstanding. IN WITNESS
whereof We have caused these our Letters to be made patent, WITNESS ourself at West-
minster the fourteenth day of May in the first year of our Reign."
[Now WE, the Charter aforesaid, and all and singular therein contained ratifying and
approving the same for us and our heirs and successors as much as in us is do accept and
approve, and to our trusty and beloved Subjects all and singular the tenants, resiants, and
inhabitants within the aforesaid parish of Devynnok within our said Forest, who now are
and who henceforth shall be by tenor of these presents, Do ratify and confirm, as the
Charter aforesaid in itself reasonably testifieth. IN WITNKSS whereof we have caused
these our Letters to be made Patent, WITNESS ourself at Westminster the 17th day of
May in the 30th year of our Reign.]
As by a certain Indenture of the said late King made and dated at Westminster the
17th day of Ffebruary in the first year of his reign for the rendering one penny for the
Kyfryve by the aforesaid Lord the now King, confirmed and corroborated in these
words: —
(161)
[HENRY, the 8th, by the Grace of God, King of England and France, Defender of
the fait 1 1, Lord of Ireland, To ALL TO WHOM these present Letters shall come Greeting, We
have inspected a certain Indenture between the Lord Richard, late King of England, our
Progenitor of the one part, and all the tenants, Resiants, and Inhabitants of the Great
Forest in the Lordship of Brecknock in Wales of the other part, and sealed with his privy
Signet, as is said, and signed with his sign Manual, made in these words : — ]
" THIS INDENTURE made bitwen the moste excellent and crysten prynce Richard, by
the Grace of God Kyng of Englonde and Lord of Irelonde on the one p'tie, and all the
Tenn'te Recyaunte, and Inhabytaunte of the Great Foreste in his Lordship of Brecknock
in Wales on the other p'tie, WITNESSETH that where as our sayd sov'aigne Lorde at the
humble supplicacion of the sayd Tenn'te Recyaunte and Inhabytaunte there, and for the
favo'r, ease, and well of all lyege people, of his especiall grace and by his gracious 1'res
patente, hath graunted free libertie and free passage to all his sayd Subjecte to passe and
repasse through and by his sayd great Forest and in euy p'te thereof, as well on Horsebak
and a fote, w't all manner of merchandizes as by the sayd 1'res patente more pleynly it
apperith AND WHERE also as the said Tenn'te Recyaunte and Inhabitannte w'thin the said
Forest by the said supplicacion have desired of his said Highnes to have Water and
Pasture for the feedyng of their Beste and Cattalle in Hilles Mounteyns and Valeys of the
said Great Forest w'tonte any thyng paying therefor to his said Highnes, Our sayd
Soveraigne Lord of hys most habundaunt grace and mercy ponderyng the poverty of hys
said suppliaunte, and the great charges restyng upon them yerely unto his Highnes, hath
graunted by these presente unto his said liegemen and suppliaunte fre lib'tie to have Water
and Pasture in the said Mount ay nea, Hilles, and Valeys of the said Forest for the
norysshing of their Bestys and Cattail, PAYNG unto his Highnes for every polle of the said
Bests and Catall a penny after the rate and computacion of KYFEVVE, knowen by usage
and custume of the said Foreste and also to all the Inh'itante of the said Lordship of
Hreknok onely having any Bestys or Catell hauntyng the sayd Forest for Water and
Pasture a penny for every polle after the rate and forme abovesaid. ALSO our sayd
Soveraigne lord by thise presents com'aundeth all his officers beyug there as for the tyme
to whome that, longeth to sett and putt hys said Forest to ferme on Maye daye to him or
them that grauntith most. Therefore, ordynate warnyng p'clamyd before at the High
Cross in the Town of Breknok on the Markett Daye mniediatly before Maye Daye,
t.ikyng Surties of the Fermours thereof in hys Escheker at Breknok aforesaid, as the
Custome thereof requyreth, AND in more strenght and wytnes of the grauntes abovesayd
made by our sayd soveraigne Lord to the said Tenn'ts Recyaunte and luhabitaunte there
cure sayd soveraigne Lorde hath com'aunded hys secrete signett to these Indenture to be
putt confermyng the same w't his gracious signe manuell geven at his Palace at West-
myuster the XlXth day of Februarie, the first yere of his reigne."
[ANU this to all whom it may concerne, WE do make known e by these presents.
WITNESS ourself at Westminster, the 17th day of May in the 30th year of our Reign. —
OLIVER.]
That is to say, in the allowance of part of the sum of £94 3s. M for the ffarm of
the Great Forest aforesaid over and above £7 4. 8. parcel of the same sum received by
the aforesaid Accountant for approvement that is in the Kyfryve made within the same
Forest and no further upon his Oath upon this Account and so in decrease as well by
virtue of the Act of Parliament as by virtue of the aforesaid Grants this year £86 18. 8.
"And he owes £4177 1. 1."
(162)
CAP. II.
THE HILL CAUSES, A.D. 1784.
From the date of the lease of William and Mary down to 1805, the Morgan family
were by successive leases the tenants of the Agistment of the Great Forest under the
Crown. The family of Williams of Penpont had much to do with renting the Forest Mills,
and Mr. Johnes of Havod was for a time lessee of the Forest mines, but neither were ever
lessees of the Forest Agistment.
This long tenure in the same family insensibly produced a feeling of semi-ownership ;
and it will be remembered in the Welsh Penkelly Manor case, that Mr. Thynne Home
Gwynne was not without some difficulty convinced that the Crown was the owner, and
himself only the steward. And a feeling of this kind grows among one's neighbours ; and
it has happened to myself, from the similarity of Christian names, and from being for a
long time agent to my father, whom in his old age the tenants seldom saw, to be deemed
the actual owner of some of my father's lands, and I so figure in the modern
Domesday book to the extent of several hundred acres in the Counties of Hereford and
Moumouth.
And in the Manor of Hay, where the Morgan family were also lessees of the Crown
Manor of Haia Wallensis, we find C.M. carved, doubtless by some too-zealous agent, on
one of the large stones on the hill ; and similarly in the Great Forest itself, on the large
rock marking the division on the mountain between the Forest land and the Hamlet of
Modrydd, the letters C.M. are boldly cut.
And apart from long possession of the Agistment of the Great Forest by successive
leases, the Morgan family were actually the owners of the Brecon Manor in the Lordship
of Brecon, adjoining ; and their farmers and undertenants gradually assumed similar power,
and claimed to exercise the same rights over one as the other. Apparently to such an
extent had this gone, that according to the statement in the case annexed, " It is with us a
matter of doubt whether the Great Forest is at this time mediately or immediately in the
Crown." And besides, it had been the practice of the Crown to grant elsewhere in the
county fee-farm tenancies — practically freeholds — at small fixed rents, to various persons,
like Usk Mill at Brecon, the Honddu Mill, and Pipton Manor.
However, some of the claims made by the foresters or farmers under the Morgan
family were considered by the old Forest tenants as exactions and " strange innovations,"
and were not acquiesced in by them ; and the bold stroke was taken to have a case
prepared, and submitted to counsel, so far as regarded the important lime-burning customs.
EXP'TE: TENANTS OF THE MANOR OF BRECON.
CASE, A.D. 1781.
On the Great Forest of Brecon it hath been a Custom, continued down from Time
immemorial, for persons from the neighbourhood, as well Cottagers as Fanners, to erect
sev'l Kilns for burning of Limestone, which there abounds in large Quarries, into Lime.
These Lime Burners sell the Lime upon the spott, and supply all without Distinction from
wheresoever they be, who think proper to come for it. The Forest is a large Tract of
Hilly Land, or mountain, in the Lordship of Brecon, commonable with all manner of
Beasts by a Great Number of Farmers under a certain Kent of so much p. Head, for
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particular Cattle, to the Lord, now Charles Morgan, Esq. There has been never an
Instance of making any acknowledgem't to the Lord or any Else for the Liberty to erect
Kilns and to raise burn and vend Lime in the manner before mentioned, but being for the
Increase and Incourageinent of Husbandry, both from that and the usage it hath always
been deemed a Thing of universal Right and that as well strangers as Tenants thereof
might go there to fetch it, and while they stop at the Kilns, suffer their Horses to go
about grazing at a Convenient Distance, without making themselves liable to any payment
to the Lord. And it is usual for those who are far off to go towards Lime in the Evening,
arriving at the Kilns in the dusk, and turn out their Horses upon the Hill till the dawn,
when they load and return.
Such has been the uniform and uninterrupted Practice and usage untill the Present
summer, when one John Williams having farmed the Profits of the forest has thought
proper to work strange Innovations. He makes a Demand upon all who come there not
having Right of Common, of forest Tax, double what the Commonors pay for their Horses,
and accordingly has distrained upon a great Number of Horses in the course of the summer
coming for Lime and kept them impounded till the Owners paid him such Forest Tax,
with the charges of Distress. The way to these Kilns is from the Great use of it made a
deep beaten Road and tho' it leads only to those Places, in a manner looked upon as a
Common Highway. And it seemeth this Forester has had the Modesty hitherto not to
distrain upon any Horses that are strictly kept to the Road and stop'd close to the Kilns ;
and therefore to Obtain his End with better safety, watches such as are suffered to stray a
little off the Eoad or from the Kilns when he makes the Distress, but he holds it to be his
right and often threatens to distrain as soon as they enter the Common, and whether they
cut a blade of Grass or not.
Therefore Your opinion is desired to the following Querries : —
Whether from the immemorial usage any persons may not Erect Kilns, dig up and
sell lime to whomsoever they please without making Acknowledgment to the
Lord, at least have not the Tenants of the Manor and Commoners a Right so to
do for Manuring their own Lands?
Can this Farmer of the Profits of the Great Forest justify distraining the Horses of
such as are not Commoners in the manner before mentioned, particularly on
Account of their being suffered to graze about the Kilns with the Pack saddles
on, and if so, as Trespassers, or how otherwise ?
And if the going about and grazing gives him such power, Yet can he lay hold of such
Horses as are altogether kept upon the direct Road, and during their stay are
tied up as close as conveniently can be at the Kilns?
A Person having no Right of Common sent his servant to Lime; the man arriving in
the Dusk suffered his Horses as Customary to graze about till the dawn, and in
the morning Jno. Williams met the man, and asked him if his Master had sent
any money for Forest Tax on Account of his Horses grazing on the Hill, who
answered in the negative, but that if there was any due his Master wo'd pay it.
Williams replied that wo'd not do, and was proceeding to take up the Horses,
whereupon the man said he wo'd not let the Horses go to pound, and desired to
know the demand, upon which he was told 2s. 9d., the same he directly tendered
and were refused, and the Horses were lead to pound. Supposing his Right to
distrain to be Good, Yet co'd he justify detaining the horses after the Tender?
It is doubtful which was first, the Actual distress or the Tender ; will that make
any difference ?
Jno. Wms is the Undertenant of a Mr. P. M. (Philip Morgan), who is the Original
Farmer of the Forest, and who generally attends him on this Business to give
his aid and Counsel.
On the last Occasion, as well as on most others, Mr. M. was the most active, and it
was he who Conversed and answered for Jno. Williams, and the Tender was not
particularly made to him ; but as the other was present, and as Mr. M. is used to
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Act for him in this Business and receive this kind of money, it is supposed not
to be very Material, however, be pleased to give your Opinion of it. Sho'd they
or one of them justify as the Lord's servant or servants, in that Case is a Tender
good to them or either of them, particularly to the One who will be said to aid
the other ?
It is with us a matter of doubt whether the Great Forest is at this Time, mediately
or immediately in the Crown ; it is said to be the latter, and that C. Morgan,
Esq., is only Lessee of the Profits, and for that reason when a Distress is made,
either for Forest Tax or Trespass, it is irrepleviable as being at the suit of the
Crown, and in 1776 the following Notice was served :—
"Brecon, 26th Oct., 1776.
" To the Sheriff of the County of Brecon.
" Sir,— By the Authority of the Barons of ye Exchequer I hereby give you Notice
that upon a Distress at the suits of the Crown Yon cannot replevy, it being one
of the Prerogatives of the Crown, and I give Yon this Notice to prevent Your
falling into an Error.
I am, Sir, Yours, etc.,
EDWARD MOORE,
Dep : Rec'r Genl."
As the Horses are taken up and impounded by the Forester without any other notice
of Distress than his telling the Owner or his servant by word of mouth that he
takes them up for forest Tax, and supposing the sheriff cannott replevy at the
suit of the Crown. Is lie, the sheriff, justified in this Case, and under these
circumstances, in refusing to grant a Replevyn 1
Richard, the second, granted to his Tenants of the said Great Forest (whom, we
presume, was then immediate Lord of the same) the Herbage and Liberty thereof
for one Penny a Kivrin, which, among other Description of Beasts, signifies One
Horse broken to Labour, and that is the Yearly Acknowledgment that has been
ever since made for the same. See Annotations at the end of a presentment
herewith left.
Whether a Tenant's Farm Horse, or a Horse never grazing on the Common, except
only in fetching Lime as before stated, is within the description above mentioned
and consequently liable to payment of this penny.
Answer to the sev'l Querries : —
1. Notwithstanding the usage stated, I apprehend, it is impossible in point of Law to
Maintain that all persons whatsoever have a right to erect Kilns upon this
Forest, and to dig up and sell Lime to any persons who will buy it without
making any Acknowledgment to the Lord of the soil. But I think the Tenants
of the Manor and the Commoners may justify doing so for the purpose of
manuring their Own Lands, if in point of fact they have immemorially been used
to do so.
2. As to the horses of strangers, whether grazing about the Kilns upon the occasions
and in the manner described or otherwise, I am of opinion that the King, or his
Grantee, or Lessee of the Forest, may distrain them as Damage feasant. I think,
too, Horses tied up to the Kilns, or kept in the Road to the Kilns, if those Kilns
are erected by strangers, are liable to be distrained.
3. In the Particular Case stated of a Distress and Tender of 2s. 9d, the sum
demanded by the person distraining, I am of opinion the Detention of the Horses
was illegal and unjustifiable, even if the Tender was made after the Distress in
the manner described ; and under the Circumstances related. It seems im-
material whether the Tender was more pointed to Mr. M. than to Jno. William
(165)
4. I have above Considered the Tender spoken of to be such as a Jury ought to find
as made to Jno. Win., who is Expressly stated to be the Actual Tenant of the
Forest under Mr. M., the Orig'l Farmer. But if they are only Bailiffs or
servants to the Lord, a Tender after distress to either of them is not good, upon
the Authority of Pilkington's Ca 5 Co. Upon the whole, therefore, as litigating
this particular Case wo'd not decide any question of Right, and as there seems
to be much doubt about Material Facts, it wo'd be imprudent to Contest it
fur'r if it can be avoided.
5. I apprehend the Sheriff is justified in refusing a Replevin in Case of a Distress
made in right of the King, w'ch in truth appears to be the Nature of these
Distresses ; but any Question of Eight may as well be tried by an Action of
Trespass as by Replevin.
6. I incline to think that the Horse of a Tenant of the Manor, never grazing un the
Common, except in the manner described on Occasion of fetching Lime from a
Kiln erected by a Tenant for Manuring his Own Land, is not liable to pay the
Kivrin penny, supposing there has been a long and continued usage not to pay
in such Cases.
EDWIX BEARCUOFT,
Line. Inn, 25th Aug't, 1781.
The P. M. thus referred to was Mr. Philip Morgan, the well-known Collector of the
Forest dues, and it would seem that the dues were collected as payable to the Crown, and
were to be handed over at their Breconshire Audit. It is not quite easv to understand the
legal position relatively of the Crown and the Agister, but it may be assumed that while
the dues were legally demandable by and payable to the Crown, the Agister was authorised
to collect them, handing over a fixed sum to the Crown, and retaining the surplus to cover
expenses, and for his own profit. Thus the name of the Crown, and even the power — an
enormous one — conld be used by the Agister and his Foresters and agents !
We find this Mr. Philip Morgan issuing the following notice in 1782, that he had
taken and distrained a black cow in default of payment. The description given of his
office at the foot of the paper should be carefully noticed.
To Mr. HOWELL POWELL, of the Parish of Llewell, in the Manor of Brecon, within the
County of Brecon.
Take Notice that I have this day, on his Majesty's behalf, and by virtue of the power
to rne given, taken and distrained the Goods, Cattle, and Chatties hereunder mentioned for
the sum of eleven shillings and sixpence for Twelve years Rents and Customs, and arrears
of Rents and Customs due from you within the Manor of Brecon, and payable to his
Majesty's Auditt at Mich's 1781. And unless you pay said Rents and Customs and
arrears of rents and Customs, together with the cost and charges attending the said
Distress, or otherwise legally satisfy and discharge the same within Five days from the
delivery hereof, I sh:ill on your neglect herein cause the same Distress to be appraised and
sold as the Law directs
Dated the 9th day of I am, yo'r H'ble S'te,
December, 1782. PHILLIP MORGAN,
A particular of the Goods, Cattle, and Collector of the Rents and Customs due
Chattels distrained on, which you within the Manor of Brecon afore-
are to Take Notice are impounded said, and payable at his Majesty's
in the Common pound at Devyn- Auditt.
nock.
One cow. Endorsed :
A True Coppy by me, Black cow, 2 V. 42,
WALTER POWELL, Constable. POWELL and MORGAN.
VOL n. z
(166)
In June of the same year (1782), Mr. Philip Morgan made a drive of part of the
Forest land with the following result, and met with considerable success.
A Days work at Blaen Glyn Tawe by Phillip Morgan and Company,
June 29th, 1782, from the Great Forest:— •£ *• d.
from Richd. Trahan 10s. 6d. p. head for 14 heads of Catle . .770
from William Thomas Hugh for 8 heads . .440
from John Richard 4 do. . .22
from the Man of Clyn y Bedd for 4 Horses limeing . .330
from the Weddow of Wm. D'd Jno. Lewelin for one Horse . 0 10 6
Carmarthenshire Catle 31 heads at 5s. p. head . 7 15 0
Do. do. . 0 15 0
£25 16 6
It would seem that in 1774 the claim to take in Foreign cattle by the Agister was
not insisted upon, as Mr. George Morgan, of Brecon, who appears to write with some
authority, disavowed the Act of Dio, his deputy at Nantddu, in taking in such cattle, and
made him promise not to take in any more for the future.
" Brecon,
August ye 12th, 1774.
"Sir, —I find by David John of Crew, that you have taken up some Glamorganshire
cattle under his and Dio of Nant dee's care. I have told him that he has no right to take
any such in, and he readily promises not to take any in for the future, if therefore you will
set them at liberty this time upon reasonable terms, it may prevent bad neighbourhood
between the borderers, and much oblige, Sir,
" Your very H'ble Serv't,
" GEORGE MOKGAN."
" P^DWARD POWELL, Abersenny.
But that was an old story now. New people had apparently come on the scene, and
a harsher rule was to prevail than the paternal one of the old Morgan family.
About this period, Mr. Henry Williams, of Crickhowell, a solicitor in a large way
of practice, and possessed of considerable landed property himself, became the Steward of
the Lordship of Brecon, under Mr. Charles. Morgan, and there and on the Great Forest
was the zealous agent of his master to enforce the rights of his property, and the payment
of all dues in respect of the Manor of Brecon and of the Great Forest, Of the personal
character of this Mr. Williams I know little, but he proved a most unfortunate man, and
his disastrous and large failure in 1800 was one of the startling events of those times.
The following is a copy of the peremptory notice issued by him to the Tenants of
the Manor.
" Crickhowell,
"September 22, 1784.
" SIR, — -Mr. Morgan, of Tredegar, being determined to enforce the Payment of the
Arrears of Chief Kents and Comortha's due to him within the Lordship of Brecon, but
being very averse to compulsive measures, and willing to give you as little trouble as
possible, he has directed his Agent to attend at Mrs. Hooton's, in the Village of Devynnock,
on Friday, the 8th Day of October next, between the Hours of Eleven and Two, to receive
such Arrears.
"But I am to add, that if you Neglect at that Time and Place to Pay all Arrears, he
will persume you mean to dispute his Right to them, and on that ground will, without
further Notice, persue legal steps for the recovery thereof; and for which, after this
Notice, he flatters himself, you cannot justly blame him.
" I am,
" Your Humble Servant,
"HENRY WILLIAMS."
(167)
And it will be seen by the following letter, that the claims of the Lord of the Manor to
Commorthas and other dues were being pressed in a manner that they had not been before
in living memory, and Mr. David Lloyd of Blaenclydach and others were preparing to
contest the claims : —
" To MR. JOHN POWELL, Attorney, Brecon.
" D'r Sir,— Inclos'd I have retuni'd you Mr. Jeffrey Letter. We, the freeholders of
the Parish of Llywell, and David Watkins of Landilo and Mr. Watkin Williams of
Devomiock parish, have met together to consult conserning the Commortha and other
Claiine Charge on us by Mr. Morgans. We do Joyn to support each other against his
Claime, and the expence of the Law suit is to be paid by an eaqual pound Rate by the
present Survay, and each person is to pay for all the estate that he has whithin Mr.
Morgan manor. Therefor we hope Lord Camden will have no maner of objecttion to
Joyn us. I have been desir'd by my friend to trouble you to draw few word of agreement
on half a seet of pap'r, that we may set your hand to, till we shall have a Bond to sign.
Mr. Watkin Williams will take the trouble to go to all the freeholders of Cray, and will
get them to set their names by this Agreement, and we will sent it from there where ever
you will be pleas to direct us, pleas to draw the agreement and sent it to me by return of
Bearer.
" I am, D'r Sir,
" Y'r ever oblig'd good friend,
" Blaenclydath, "DAVID LLOYD.
"Febr'y ye 17, 1785."
It is necessary here to give a sketch of the Morgan family hii-tory at this period,
though it is far from easy to do so witli the material at my command. In 1781, we have
seen that " C. Morgan, Esq." was the lessee of the Forest Agistmeut under the Crown;
and in the case subsequently referred to, it there appears that in 1784-86 Mr. John
Morgan had become the Crown lessee, while a Mr. Charles Morgan held the Brecon
Lordship. My impression is that this latter Charles Morgan was the son of King Gould,
who had married Jane, the sister of the first-named Charles Morgan, and also of John
Morgan, and who became, on the death of her brothers without issue, the sole heiress and
descendant of the Morgan family.
If this is correct, it is not difficult to account for the alleged innovations and harsher
treatment of the tenants of the Brecon Lordship, and incidentally of the Tenants of the
Great Forest. For this Mr. Charles Morgan, a Gould on his father's side, would be
probably more English than Welsh in his feelings, and unfamiliar with Welsh ways and
customs ; and further, when inheriting these large estates, he would, perhaps naturally,
seek to make the best use of his new possessions. To this change, so to speak, of dynasty
I attribute the trouble and differences we are now describing.
The crisis actually came over the taking in of Foreign Cattle on the Great Forest by
the agents of the Agister. It appears that it had been the practice of the Agister and his
agents to take in strange or Foreign Cattle from Carmarthenshire and Glamorganshire, to
graze on the Forest land at a special payment per head, and, of course, with special profit
to himself. The practice was much objected to by the Tenants of the Forest, as it deprived
them of pasturage, and caused them loss in consequence ; and the following anonymous
paper refers to the matter at some length : —
" The Plea of the Forest custom chargeable on the Tenants being deficient to make
up the fixed Rent annually paid to the Crown is without foundation, as upon a fail-
calculation it will be found that the custom paid upon Cattle put in by the respective
Tenants will amount to near double the money ; equally frivolous is that other, of there
being grass upon the Forest more than sufficient for the Tenants. There is a kind of long
course grass on the summit of these Mountains which Cattle from the low Countreys of
Monmouthshire and Glamorganshire will not eat if they can have any other; this Circum-
stance, together with that of bad weather, which is often ye case, causes the cattle to herd
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together towards the borders of the Lands adjoining, so that the Tenants, amongst other
inconveniences, are depriv'd of all the tine grass that is near and convenient to them.
" Our worthy Representative may as well throw off all his modesty at once, and
attempt plump to cutt us off from any the least right to the Forest, as to endeavor to
make our claim in it to amount to no more than above insignificant right of turning in our
Cattle among such a numerous herd of foreign ones, as the avarice of his wicked Agents
shall prompt them to take in.
" If the Forest was absolutely sold away, the only method adopted to make the most
advantage of it would be, to take in strange Cattle from different parts upon it, as the
height and steepness of its situation, the severe coldness to which it is exposed, and other
circumstances, would not admit of any other plan of improving its value ; therefore to find
a Verdict against the Defendant would in effect be making an Act of Parliament in Brecon
to sell away the Crown Lands."
And in 1784 the Tenants of the Forest resolved to impound any strange Cattle that
were turned out, no matter by what authority, on the Forest lands, and this was done in
7iine different cases, and in each of which the persons whose cattle had been impounded
brought an action, as plaintiffs, against the Forest tenants so impounding their stock, as
defendants, some in Replevin, and some in Trespass. Behind the plaintiffs was, of course,
the Agister, and behind him the Crown itself, a formidable body to confront the small
Welsh freeholders of Defynnock and Llywel parishes in an important lawsuit !
U'e have a copy of the briefs to Counsel, both of the Plaintiff and Defendant. There
were nine writs issued, but only one came to trial, that of David Thomas, Pltf., and Lewis
Richards, Deft., at the Brecon Great Sessions, April, 1786. In Replevin.
On the plaintiff's brief came in order, the Declaration, Avowry, and Pleas in Bar.
Then follows the statement of Plaintiffs' Case.
PLAINTIFF'S CASE.
This is one of Nine /lotions, some in Replevin, and some in Trespass, which have
been commenced against these Defendants and others for taking up Cattle depasturing
upon the Great Forest of Brecon, which has been much talked of, and is a matter of great
consequence to Mr. John Morgan, the Lessee of the Crown, as well as the Landholders of
the Hundred of Devynnock, and, indeed, to those of many of the other parts of Lordship
of Brecon, which Lordship is Mr. Charles Morgan's.
From what motive these Defendants, with their numerous friends and advisers, have
taken these steps at this time of the day after an acquiescence for time immemorial, is not
certainly known, and remains only to be guessed at, but it is hoped that they are not
induced to these measures from any hopes they can conceive of the Right to sole and
separate pasture in this extensive Forest, which, according to our Computation, is 25 miles
long by Seven Miles wide, and contains at least 112,000 acres. [Probably includes the
whole Lordship of Brecon. — ED.]
The first Traces we have of this Forest is from the following Grant, made the 19th of
February, in the 1st of King Richard 3rd, and which appears from a Copy only in our
Custody, to have been exemplified in the Reign of Henry 8th. Where the original
exemplification is we know not. Every diligent search has been made in the offices above,
but without effect.
"Henricus Octavus, Dei Gracia Francie et Anglite Rex, Fidei Defensor Dominus,
Hibernie et Suprus caput Angl. Eccles : Omnibus, ad quos present Littere pervent,
Salutem. Inspeximus quad indent inter Dominum Ricardum imp : Reg : Anglie, pro-
genitor Nostr. ex una parte, et omnes Teneiit Resid : et Inhabitant Magno Foresto in
Dominio de Brecknock in Wallia ex altera parte. Ex secret signet ut dictr. sigillat ao
Signat Manuale Signat fact in hec Verba R.R."
This Indenture, made between "the Most Excellent and Christian Prince Richard, by
the Grace of God King of England and of France and Lord of Ireland of the One Partie,
(169)
and all the Tenants, Resiants, and Inhabitants of the Great Forest within his Lordship of
Brecknock in Wales on the other partie, witnesseth that Whereas our said Sovereing Lord
sit the humble Supplication of the said Tenants, Resiants and Inhabitants there, and for
the favour, ease and \Veale of all Liege People, of his Special Grace and by his Gracious
Letters Patent, Hath Granted free Liberty and free passage to all his said subjects to pass
and repass through and by his said Great Forest, and in every part, as well on Horseback
and on foot, with all manner of Merchandizes as by the said Letters Patent more plainly
appeareth ; and whereas also the said Tenants, Resiants and Inhabitants within the said
Forest by the said Supplication there desired of his said Highness of have Water and Pasture
for the feeding of their Beasts and Catties in Hills, Mountains, and Vallies of the said
Great Forest, without at any time paying therefore to his said Highness, our said
Sovereign Lord of his most abundant Grace and Mercy, pondering the poverty of his said
Suppliants and the great Charges resting upon them yerely unto His Highness, HAVE
granted by these presents unto his said Leige Men and Suppliants free liberty to have
water and pasture in the said Mountains, Hills, and Vallies of the said Forest for the
nourishing of their Beasts and Catties, paying unto his said Highness for every poll of the
said Beasts and Catties Id. after the Rate and computation of Kyi'ryve, known by usage
and custom of the Forest, and also to all the Inhabitants of the said Lordship of Brecknock
only, having any Beast or Cattle hanting the said Forest for Water and Pasture, a penny
for every poll after the rate and form above said. Also our said Sovereign Lord by the
Presents Commandeth all his Officers, being these as for the time to whom that longeth, to
set and put his said Forest to ffarm upon May day to him or them that granteth most.
Therefore ordinate warning to be proclaimed before, at the High Cross in the said Town of
Brecknock, on the Market day immediately before May day, taking Sureties of his ffarmer
thereof in his Exchequer of Brecknock aforesaid, as the custom thereof lequireth. And in
more strength aud witness of the Grants above said made by our Sovereign Lord to the
said Tenants, Resiants and Inhabitants there, our said Sovereign Lord hath commanded
his secret signet to these Indentures to be put continuing the same by his Gracious sign
Manuel. Given at his Palace at Westminster the Nineteenth day of February, in the
first year of his Reign.."
Et hec omnibus quod interest notifecim present. In cujus rei testimon : has Littor :
prevent fieri fecimus pateuter Teste me ipso apnd Westminster xvii Mail, Anno regn
Nostri, xxx.
N.B. — The word " Kyfryve," mentioned in this Grant is an ancient British word
signifying in English "Reckoning or Computation," and it is said that the Tenants before
this Grant paid 3d. a Kyfryve.
It appears from this Grant that the ffee of the Forest still remains in the Crown, but
it is not known that there have been any Courts of Swaiumote, etc., ever held, or any other
Forest privileges exercised.
The prescription set up by the Avowry, it is to be observed, is materially different
from the Grant, for Water and Pasturage are not given to Owners of Antient Tenements,
etc., but to Tenants, Resiants, and Inhabitants, on paying One penny ye poll, which com-
pared to the present value of Money was a large compensation. Indeed, as to the customary
payments, the Avowant may be right, and we believe have been as he states from time
immemorial. But the only question in this Cause seem to be as to the sole and several
pasture, which is a Right for the first time now set up, and which we trust cannot be
supported.
George (the late King), then Prince of Wales, by Indentures of Lease dated 4th June,
1724, did give, grant, and demise unto William Morgan of Tredegar, Esqre., his Ex'ors,
etc., the Agistament, Herbage, and Pannage of the Great Forest of Brecon, in the County
of Brecon, parcel of the Lordship of Brecon, and all and singular the profits, commodities,
advantages, emoluments, aud Hereditaments whatsoever to the aforesaid Agistament,
Herbage, and pannage belonging, and with the Forest Aforesaid heretofore demised.
Except all wild Beasts, deer, and Herbage and pannage for them [There are no deer, nor is
there any man living who remembers any, but even this Exception is in some degree an
(170)
Argument against sole pasturage] and all Trees, Quarries, etc., which said premises had
been theretofore demised to Thomas Morgan, Esq., by Letters of their late Majesty King
William and Queen Mary, bearing date the 14th of May, in the 5th year of their Reign,
and to commence from the End, or other soon determination of a Term of 31 Years there-
tofore demised to Richard Jones, Gent., by Letters patent of his late Majesty King Charles
the 2nd, bearing date the 25th of September in the 22nd year of his Reign, at and under
the yearly rent of £20 6s. 8d, as by the said Letters patent, relation being thereunto had,
might appear, to hold unto said William Morgan, his Ex'ors, etc., for 31 years, at the
yearly rent of £20 6s. Sd., payable as therein mentioned.
Said William Morgan covenants with the Prince, among other things, to suffer and
permit all other Tenants, Residents, and Inhabitants of the Lordship of Brecon aforesaid,
and all other persons who heretofore had or ought, to have passage, Herbage, and Agista-
rnent in the Forest aforesaid or in any part thereof, to have and enjoy the same as they
were heretofore accustomed to have and enjoy the same.
The present King, by Letters patent of 5th February, 1770, did demise, grant, and to
farm let to Thomas Morgan, Esq., lately deceased, for 31 years, the said Great Forest, in
the same manner and at the same Rent as iu the former Lease, in which there is contained
a Covenant in the same words from Mr. Morgan to permit the Tenants, Residents, and
Inhabitants to have passage, Herbage, and Agistament.
It is apparent from the Recital in the Prince of Wales's Lease, that Leases have been
from time to time granted of the Forest since the Reign of Charles the Second, and it is
probable Leases might have been granted before that time.
FROM these Leases it is contended that King Richard, by his Grant, never intended
to part with the whole interest in the Herbage, etc., to the Tenants, Resiants, and
Inhabitants, reserving nothing to himself but the soil, Trees, etc., but that they, as in
Oases of other Commons, should have water and pasturage only for all their Cattle, and if
there was any surplus, the Crown and its Lessee were to make the most- of it. On the
contrary, if the Tenants, etc., are entitled to the sole Herbage, the Crown has nothing left
but the soil, Trees, etc., and the several Leases of the Herbage, pannage, and agistment
must have been nugatory, as the Crown could in that, case have Leased only the profits
arising from the Id. per poll.
It is not immaterial to this point to observe, that if all the persons entitled to
pasturage were even at this day to turn up the Cattle, Horses, and Sheep they possess
(which must be far more numerous than they were at the time of the Grant), they could
not, according to the Kyfryve, or Reckonning, stated in the Avowry, amount to £10 per
annum ; so that if they had, as they contend, the sole pasturage, the Lessee would, instead
of gaining, be a great loser by his Lease. This circumstance, as well as that from time
immemorial the Agents for the Lessee of the Crown have taken in the Cattle of strangers
to gist, will, I am instructed to say, be clearly proved. It seems to be now clearly
established, notwithstanding Sir Francis North's Argument in 1st Vent. 383, that a
prescription for sole and several pasturage on the Lord's waste may be supported ; but on
the other hand, if there is any weight in Hall's Doctrine in the case of lloskins and
Robins, 1st Vent. 165, wherein he says : " It would not be sufficient to prove an Usage for
the sole pasture to shew that the Tenants had only fed it, unless it were proved also that
the Lord had been opposed in putting in his Cattle, and the Cattle impounded from time
to time." Aided by even slender prooff that from time beyond memory it had been usual
to take in the Cattle of strangers we shall, it is hoped, have little difficulty in getting over
the prescriptive claim which is at this time only set up, and which, it is believed, was
never seriously thought of before.
The Lordship of Brecon not only extends to the several Parishes mentioned in the
Avowry, but to divers other Parishes, and it is strange that the avowant confines the whole
pasturage to those parishes only iu which the Great Forest is situate, and which are
mentioned in the Avowry. It most certainly is an oversight, for it is agreed on all hands,
and it is not in the least doubted, but even from the avowant's own Witnesses it would
come out that the Tenants of the Lordship of Brecon at large are entitled to pasture in
(171)
the whole Forest, so that the claim of sole pasturage only, as belonging to the parishes
mentioned in the Avowry, must fail.
THERE have been, for several years past, some murmurings amongst the Freeholders
as to the Right of taking in foreign Cattle, and the Freeholders within the Forest have,
at their Convivial meetings, when in high spirits, often threatened to sweep the whole
Forest, as they termed it ; but when the fumes of the Welch Ale evaporated, their spirits
consequently lowered. So long ago as the year 1735, there was a dispute of the same
nature with the present, and the Freeholders, with several Gentlemen of ffortuue in the
neighbourhood, entered into a large subscription to support their Eights, as they called
them, but it is presumed that upon investigating the matter, they found they could not be
supported. This is only supposition, as nothing was done, and foreign Cattle were
afterwards continued to be taken in, till about seven years ago, when these murmurings
broke out afresh. The reason is guessed at only, for be the Event what it may, the
Freeholders must be like Dogs in Mangers, for there always has been more than sufficient
Grass for all Cattle, foreign or otherwise, that have been turned up within the memory
of Man.
It is presumed that the production of the Crown Leases of Antieut date will prove the
Fee to be in the Crown, though we cannot produce the Original Grant, for which we have
made the most diligent search in the several Offices above. We also trust these Leases
will of themselves show that the Avowants have not had the sole and several pasturage of
the Forest.
It is also presumed that it will be incumbent on the Avowant in the first place, to
prove his Right as laid in the Avowries or in one of them, and it is contended that no
Tenant, Resiant, or Inhabitant within the parishes mentioned in the Avowries can be
admitted to prove the prescriptions, then (?) we insist that they may be examined in support
of our Pleas in Bar.
If it should be thought necessary, we can produce several Receipts for the Crown
Rent, so far back as the Reign of Queen Anue, and we have also an Agreement made in
1726 between Richard Hughes, Esq., on the part of Sir William Morgan, whereby to let to
John Jenkins and Rice Thomas all the Great Forest within the Lordship of Brecon, with
all its appurtenances thereto belonging, and in as large and ample manner as it had been
formerly let to Gwalter Davies and others, with all the advantages as was usually enjoyed
by them, To hold for 11 years at £24 per annum, with the usual Customs to be inserted
in the Lease as formerly, to allow John Jenkins and Rice Thomas the Tax out of it as is
allowed by the Auditor yearly. And it is agreed that Sir William Morgan shall grant a
Lease of the Great Forest for the said Term, and that John Jenkins and Rice Thomas shall
seal a counterpart of it. This will prove that the Forest has aiitieutly been let out to an
undertenant and what is called, the Forester, which term where it is used in stating the
proof is meant the Undertenants of the Forest, or his subtenants.
PROOFS.
As to turning up out of divers Parishes as well from Glamorganshire and Carmarthen-
shire as divers other parts of Breconshire.
And there follows on the Brief the Proofs of fifty-five witnesses in support of the
plaintiff's case, that Cattle from Glamorganshire and Carmarthenshire had been constantly
turned out on the Great Forest, and that the Agister had the right to authorise the stock
of such strangers to be turned thereon, and to receive payment himself for them for the
privilege.
The Counsel for the Plaintiff were Henry Allen,
Mr. Poole.
Mr. Caldecott.
and Mr. Phillips (with you).
Henry Williams — Crickhowell,
Plaintiff's Solicitor.
(172)
Then in the Brief for Defendant in Replevyn (sic) come in order, Declaration, Avowry
Plea in Bar, and Replication. The following is the Defendant's Case : —
DEFENDANT'S CASE.
The Great Forest is a large tract of Mountainous Land many miles in Extent, and the
Inhabitants of the Parishes of Devynnock, Llywell, Ystradgunlais, Ystradveltey, and
Penderin (except some particular parts of each Parish, which perhaps cannot be precisely
ascertained) have always laid claim to the whole Herbage of it, upon making the payments
which are stated in the Pleadings, to the persons appointed by the Lessee of the Crown to
collect the same, who is in Common called the Forester. From the Great Extent of the
Hill, it generally affords upon the summits or highest places thereof a great quantity of
Course Grass, and more of that sort of pasturage than may be consumed by the Tenant's
Cattle, and therefore at different times the fforestf rs have taken in considerable numbers
of Cattle from Carmarthenshire and Glamorganshire, but they were frequently impounded
by the Tenants of the fforest, and the fforesters have often made satisfaction for getting
such Catties released. At other times upon being only threatened by some of the Tenants,
the Forester would immediately send home the strange Cattle he had taken in. It can't
be denied that persons from some neighbouring Parishes in Breoonshire, besides those
names in the Pleadings, have been suffered to turn upon the fforest, and there are few
instances (if any) of their being disturbed, but it was always considered by the Tenants to
be a matter of indulgence, and the (forester received from those double what was paid by
the Tenants. It has been a practice for a ftbrester to give the Tenants ffree of their pay-
ments for leave to take in strange Cattle upon the forest, and at other Times to give the
use of Oxen to some of the Tenants near the Hill to plough their grounds, for the indul-
gence of taking in strange Cattle.
Then follow the proofs of the witnesses, only fifteen in number, among whom was
Mr. George Morgan, whose letter we have given previously.
Counsel for the Defendant were Mr. Ntchol, Mr. Lewis, and Mr. Wills.
J. Powell, Brecknock, Defendant's solicitor.
The Cause came on for trial at the April Great Sessions, 1786, at Brecon, and the
verdict was in favour of the plaintiff, for Is. damages and 4s. costs.
The following " Record " of the Verdict will be found in the Plea Rolls, Brecon,
No. 363 (Record Office).
PLEA ROLLS. BRECON. No. 363. APUIL SESSIONS, 1786.
Breconshire. Pleas held at Brecon in and for the said County on Saturday the eighth
day of April in the twenty-sixth year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord George the Third,
etc. A.D. 1786 before John Williams and Abel Moysey, esquires, Justices, etc.
DAVID WATKINS, esquire, Sheriff.
Breconshire (to wit) Lewis Richards, late of the parish of Ystradvelltey in the said
county, yeoman, was summoned to answer Daniel Thomas of a Plea of taking and unjustly
detaining the cattle of the said Daniel against sureties, etc. until etc. to the damage of the
said Daniel of thirty-nine shillings and eleven pence and the pledges to prosecute are John
Doe and Richard Roe. And thereupon the said Daniel by Henry Williams his Attorney
complains that the said Lewis on the fifth day of July in the year of our Lord one
thousand seven hundred and eighty four at the parish of Ystradvelty in the said County in
a certain place there called The Great Forest the Cattle of him the said Daniel, to wit,
Three Oxen three steers going three years old one steer going four years old, four heifers
four year old, two heifers going three years old and one heifer in calf did take and them
did unjustly detain against surties and pledges until the said Daniel was obliged to replevy
the same to the damage of the said Daniel of thirty-nine shillings and eleven pence and
thereupon he bringeth suit and so forth.
(173)
At which day here that is to say at Brecon in the said County came as well the said
Daniel as the said Lewis by their said Attornies etc. and the sheriff now returns here the
said Writ of Venire facias to him in form aforesaid directed together with a paunel of the
jurors names to the same writ annexed in all things rightly served and executed of which
jurors none came etc. Therefore the Sheriff may have the bodies of the same jurors
before the said justices here at Brecon in the said county on Thursday next coming to
make a jury of the Country between the said parties of the Plea aforesafd ; the same day
is given to the said parties here etc. at which day here (that is to say) at Brecon in the
said county before the said Justices etc. came the said Daniel and the said Lewis by their
said Attornies and the jurors of that jury by the Sheriff of the said county impannelled, to
wit, Jeffreys Wilkius, esquire, John Lloyd, esquire, Lewis Williams, esquire, Thomas
Williams, esquire, Thomas Wilkins, esquire, Morgan Jenkins, Walter \Vatkins, esquire,
William Christopher, gentleman, Thomas Parker, gentleman, William Richard, gentleman,
Joseph Tanner, gentleman, and Thomas Howells, gentleman, who being chosen charged
and sworn upon their oath say that the said Lewis did take the cattle of him the said
Daniel in manner and form as the said Daniel hath above thereof complained against him
and they assess the damages of the said Daniel on occasion thereof over and above his
costs and charges by him about his suit in this behalf expended to one shilling and for
those costs and charges to four shillings. Therefore it is considered that the said Daniel
do recover against the said Lewis his damages and costs aforesaid by the jury in manner
aforesaid assessed. And also [blank] for his costs and charges awarded by the Court here
to the said Daniel by way of increase which said damages costs and charges amount in the
whole etc [blank] and the said Lewis in mercy etc.
Evidently from the internal evidence of the Briefs, the preponderating number of
witnesses called on the part of the plaintiff — really the Crown and their Agister— and the
number and weight of counsel engaged, the Defendant and his friends were outmatched,
I think, and so lost their case. There can scarcely be a doubt that the Crown's solicitors
in London, and the English Attorney-General and Solicitor-General were advising them, as
well as the Great Sessions Leading Counsel. But it seems to me. having regard to the Grant
of Richard III, and the long usage spoken to by the Parliamentary Commissioners in 16'>1,
of the Forest by the inhabitants of certain Breconshire parishes, and no one else, this right
for strangers could not justly be upheld. Strange cattle from outside counties conld not
be construed as " feri et cervi," for whom herbage was still to be found in the Forest by the
Tenants. However, a case of this kind called for the utmost care in preparation on the
part of the Tenants, and the briefing of die best Counsel ; and probably the expenses were
cut down in this respect, as in that of the witnesses, on the ground of want of funds. On
the other hand, the case may have been won by the Crown fairly on the merits : at any
rate, the Crown did not fail in presenting their case properly for want of funds !
But it was at best a poor, sorry victory, and the interests of Breconshire farmers were
sacrificed to benefit those of outside Counties, and to put extra money in the pockets of the
Crown and its Agister. Among the names of the Special Jury is that of John Lloyd ; but
he was of Rhosferig or Aberaimell, I think, and not of our Llanwrtyd branch. My grand-
father probably was at sea then, though it is just possible that he was the Juryman named.
VOL. II. A A
(174)
CAP. III.
THE 1813 TRIAL.
THE COMPROMISE AND SETTLEMENT.
The Hill Causes of 1786 had been as the letting loose of the Waters of Strife, and
it will be seen that the Great Forest lauds up to the Enclosure in 1819, and what was left
of the Forest Tenants' lands after that had taken place, have never known a peaceful
moment since, and disputed questions of vital importance are rife there to-day.
These Hill Causes were, we believe, supported by the Crown, or, if not, certainly
excited their attention a good deal ; and the suggestion occurred to their advisers that a
much greater sum could be obtained by the sale or otherwise of the Crown's interest in
the Forest than that then received. And a little before the expiration of the last lease in
1801, and during Sir Chas. Morgan's life (he died in 1806), Mr. Hassall, the Surveyor of
PJastwood, co. Pembroke, was instructed by the Surveyor-General to make a Report on the
Great Forest, and how it could be turned to the best profitable use in the interests of the
Crown.
Mr. Hassall's Report as to the Customs of the Forest is interesting, having been made
from information supplied to him by Mr. Philip Morgan, the Forest Collector. We give
the following extract : —
"The Great Forest of Brecknock is within the Manor of Brecknock whereof Sir Chas.
Morgan Bart, is Lord of the said Manor and the forrest is situate in the Several parishes
of Llywel Devynnock, Ystradvellte and Ystradgunlais in the County of Brecknock, but
does not include the whole of either of those parishes.
OF THE DEPASTURATION OF THE GREAT FOREST.
" The kinds of Cattle depastured are Cows, Bulls, Heifers, Oxen, Steers, Yearling
Beasts, Brood Mares, Horses and Mares for labour, Colts and Sheep. It is a matter of
considerable difficulty to ascertain the average number of the different sorts of stocks
maintained Yearly upon the Great Forest owing to the number of Interlopers, as well as
the Stock of those persons who have a Right of Depasturation, which are every season
turned out to Graze upon the Forest, and not accounted for to the Lessee of the Herbage
or his representative.
" By ancient and invariable Custom, the sums paid yearly for the depasturation of
Cattle and other Stock upon the Great Forest, being the Stock of Occupiers of Lands
within the Forest, are as follows : —
For every Cow, one penny. For every Heifer, one half penny.
Bull, one half penny. Yearling Beast, one farthing.
Ox, one penny. For every Horse Mare or Gelding broke
Steer, one half penny. to labour, one penny.
" It is doubted wheather Brood Mares or Colts which have not been broke to labour are
Subject to any payment. One Half-penny for each Mare and the like sum for each Colt
has been received in Several Instances. On the contrary many persons have refused to
pay nor does it appear that any coercive measures have been adopted to compel them.
" It is an established Custom that if a Mare has once been broke to labour and is
afterwards turned oft' to breed, the payment of one penny yearly is due for her pasturing
so long as she continues to be kept upon the Forest.
TRINGARTH VALLEY IN THE GREAT FOREST OF BRECKNOCK.
SHEEP WASHING FOLD, TRINGARTH VALLEY, IN THE GREAT
FOREST OF BRECKNOCK.
(175)
" Sheep — For every hundred of five score Eight pence Yearly. For any number less
than a hundred, two pence per score or one penny for a Dozen.
" Persons residing within the Boundary of the Forest and not being occupiers of
Lands nor assessed to the parish Rates, such as Handicraft and hired Servants etc. have by
Custom a right to depasture Cattle and other Stock upon the Forest paying yearly as
follows : —
" For every Cow, Horse, or other beast, four pence.
" For every hundred of Sheep, sixteen pence.
" For any number less than a hundred, two pence per Dozen.
"All Occupiers of Lands lying out of the Boundary of the Great Forest and within
the several parishes of Llywel, Devynuock, Cantref, Ystradvellte, and Ystradgunlais,
within the Manor of Brecknock, have by Custom a right of Depasturation for Cattle
and other Stock upon the Great Forest, paying double Rates for the same which double
Rates are : —
" For every Cow or other Beast, two pence.
" For every hundred of sheep, sixteen pence, or two pence per Dozen for any less
number.
"All occupiers of Lands lying within the Lordship of Brecknock, including part of
the several parishes of Llanspyddid, Trallwm, Llandilo Van, Llantihangel Nantbran,
Merthyr Cynnog, Llandevaelog, Llanfihangel Vechan, Garthbrengy, Saint Davids, Llan-
thetty, and Llangusty-tal-y llyn, have by Custom a right to depasture Cattle and other
Stock upon the Great Forest, paying yearly for every C'ow, Horse or other Beast four
pence and for every hundred of Sheep Sixteen pence; but the inhabitants of those
Districts having extensive Commons near their Lands, seldom send sheep to the Great
Forest.
" The Occupiers of the Little Forest, in the parish of Devynnotk, have no right to
depasture their Cattle or other Stock on the Great Forest, but the Lvssee of the Great
Forest do permit the Cattle and other Stock of the Tenants of the Little Forest to
depasture their Cattle and other stock on the great Korest, paying fourpence yearly for
every Cow, Horse, or other beast, and sixteen pence yearly for every hundred Sheep.
" The Lessee of the Great Forest has no power of excluding the Cattle or other Stock
of the persons holding Lauds or residing within the Boundary thereof, nor of the Occupiers
of Lands Within the Lordship of Brecknock, such persons, Occupiers and residents, having
by ancient and invariable Custom a Right of depasturation upon the Great Forest, paying
the usual Eates for the same.
" It is held to be the Custom of the Great Forest that Whenever the Residents and
other persons having Right of Depasturation there, do not send out Cattle and other Stock
in sufficient numbers to eat the Herbage, the Lessee thereof may, in that case only, take in
Foreign Cattle and other Stock to eat up the Superabundance of grass, and this Right of
the Lessee has been exercised to a considerable extent within the last twenty years. The
usual payment for such foreign Cattle has been four pence yearly for every Horse, Ox, or
other beast; but this payment may be varied at the Will of the Lessee, and has in some
instances been raised to a higher Rate of payment. No person whatever has a Right of
depasturation in and upon the Great Forest of Brecknock, without paying the Eates
hereinbefore stated, and the Right of Depasturation is confined to the persons, parishes,
and places aforesaid.
" By ancient Custom, all Occupiers of Lands having a Right of depasturation upon
the Great forest, may turn out any number of Cattle or other stock over and above such
as are Levant and Couchant upon their respective holdings, at any Time Whatsoever
paying the usual Rates for the same.
" All Horses carrying Lime from the Kilns upon the Great forest and not depastured
thereon and paid for by the year, are liable to the payment of one penny each, for every
summer or Liming season.
(176)
" It is held to be the Custom of the Forest that all persons living thereon or within
the Lordship of Brecknock have a right to dig and burn Lime or to dig Tile Stones and
other Stones upon the Forest without payment, also to Cut Turf for burning, which Eight
has been exercised from time Immemorial, and it does not appear that any acknowledg-
ment or payment was ever made to the Lessee of the Forest in respect thereof."
AND WE FIND the following paragraph in the Surveyor-General's Keport, IV,
page 194, A.D. 1809:—
" The Great Forest of Brecon, of which the Crowu is the owner, being a district con-
siderable in extent, but mostly mountainous and barren, and incumbered with rights of
depastnrage of cattle by the occupiers of adjacent lands, under small fixed rates of payment,
and much encroached on ; and being a property not likely to be rendered productive to the
Crown under its actual circumstances, though perhaps a desirable object of possession to
the great landowners of the count}', I advised to be sold, and the produce to be invested
in £3 per cent. Stock in like manner with the sale of other property appertaining to the
Crown."
AND IN THE YEAR preceding (1808) an Act of Parliament had been passed,
34 G. Ill, c. 75, enabling the Crown, for the purposes of improving the Land Revenue
of England (among other powers), to sell the Crown's interest in the Great Forest of
Brecknock : —
" And whereas (Section 27) His Majesty, in right of His Crown, is owner of the soil
of the Great Forest of Brecknock in the County of Brecknock, and of the mines, minerals,
and other substances within and under the same, and is also entitled to the Herbage
thereof, subject to the depasture of Cattle of Occupiers of certain laud within and adjacent
to the said Forest at annual fixed and customary paj-ments. And whereas, by reason of
such depasture of Cattle and the nature and extent of the said Forest, and of the Soil, the
Rights and Interests of His Majesty cannot be made productive in their present state, and
it is therefore expedient that pjwer shall be given to dispose of the same, be it therefore
enacted that it shall be lawful for the said Surveyor-General for the time being to contract,
and agree with any person or persons, or any bodies Politick or Corporate, for the sale of
the soil, mines, or other minerals, or other substances or Herbage, or any other Rights or
Interests of His Majesty, His Heirs and successors in the said Forest or any part thereof,
or in any manner appertaining thereto' or existing within the same, within the ordering and
survey aforesaid, as and for the best prices or consideration in money which the said
Surveyor-General shall lie able to procure for the same, and which shall be approved of by
the Lord High Treasurer or Commissioners of the Treasury for the time being."
ON THIS ACT of Parliament being passed, it soon became known in the County that
the Crown intended to sell the Forest in several lots, inclusive of the soil and minerals,
and the herbage and other interests of his Majesty. The intention thus to dispose of the
Crown's interest is expressed in the report of the Commissioners of Woods and Forest,
(who had now taken the place formerly held by the Surveyor-General) in their first report,
page 22, in 1812 : —
" There are two very extensive tracts of land, which, like Delamere, appear to have
been formerly Royal Forests, and of which the soil belongs to the Crown ; viz., the Forest
of Brecknock, in the County of Brecknock, and that of Extnoor, in the Counties of Devon
and Somerset. The Forest of Brecknock consists of 40,000 acres, but of this, as appears
from a report made by a person who has been employed to survey it, there are about
2,000 acres fit for the growth of the oak. Under the Act of 48 Geo. Ill, we have a power
to sell the whole of the King's interest in this Estate, with the approbation of the Lords of
the Treasury ; and though it would be very desirable to retain those 2,000 acres in the
hands of the Crown, yet the rights and claims over the whole are of so complicated and
extensive a nature, that an attempt to divide and enclose it in the manner of Bere Forest,
and others we have mentioned, appropriating a due proportion to His Majesty, might be
attended with insurmountable difficulty. We, therefore, think that the best plan will be
to sell the entire interest of the Crowu in Brecknock Forest by Auction or otherwise, when
(177)
we trust we may be authorised by the Legislature to apply the produce of such Sales to
the purchase of other Woodlands, better situated and less objectionable in other respects."
THE TENANTS OF THE FOREST consequently became much alarmed, foreseeing in this
step a great disturbance of their grazing rights, and also a lessening of their extent ; and they
made it known that they claimed the exclusive pasturage over the Forest lands, and for any
number of cattle and sheep they chose to turn out upon them.
MR. WATKIN LLOYD, of NTanty Quared, and Mr. David Jones, of Tymawr in Glyn, were
apparently the most active of the Forest tenants in defence of their common rights; and,
without more ado, the King, on the information of the Attorney-General, proceeded on the
5th May, 1813, in Easter term of 53 Geo. Ill, in the Court of Exchequer, against Watkin
Lloyd, of Llywel, in the Co. of Brecon, gentleman, and against David of Glyn, yeoman, for
" Intrusion, Trespass, and contriving the Disinherison of the Lord the King."
Ox THE 15-ra JUNE following a meeting of the landowners within the Lordship of
Brecon was held at Defynnock, in order to consider the propriety of defending the above
suit. The following is a Report of the proceedings : —
" At a Meeting of several of the Landowers within the Manor of Brecknock, held at
the Village of Devynnock, in the County of Brecon, on Tuesday, the 15th day of June,
1813, for the Purpose of taking into Consideration the Propriety of Defending the Action
or Actions brought or to be brought by the Crown or any Person or Persons claiming under
the Crown against the Tenants of the said Manor : and of adopting such Measures as may
be thought most expedient for securing their Rights and Privileges, the following Resolu-
tions were entered into : —
" Penry Williams, Esquire, in the Chair.
"First. That we the undersigned Owners of Lands having or Claiming to have a Right
of Common in the Great Forest of Brecknock, do severally agree to bear, pay, and discharge
the Costs, Charges, and Expences of all and every Suit and Suits, Action and Actions,
which hath or have already been brought or which at any Time or Times hereafter, within
the Space of Five Years from the Date hereof, shall or may be brought by the Crown or
any Person or Persons claiming under the Crown against any or either of us, or against
any or either of our Tenants holding Lands, having a Right of Common or claiming to
have a Right of Common in the Great Forest of Brecknock in equal rateable Proportions,
such Proportions to be ascertained by the Land Tax Survey of our respective Freehold
Farms within the Manor of Brecknock. And we further severally agree to execute an
Article to the above Effect.
" Second. That the Conduct of such Action or Actions be entrusted to Messrs. Edward
Jones and Son, Solicitors, Llandovery, and Messrs. Po« ell and Jones, Solicitors, Brecon;
and that they be authorized from Time to Time to take .such Measures as may be thought
expedient for defending and supporting the Rights of the Tenants of the said Great Forest
of Brecknock ; and that they be requested to inform the different Landowners interested of
the Transactions of this Meeting, and request their Support and Signatures to the Article,
to be drawn up pursuant to these Resolutions.
" Third. That the following Gentlemen be requested to act as a Committee, vizt. : —
The Right Hon'ble Marquis Camden : Sir Charles Morgan, Baronet ; Penry Williams, Esq. ;
Revd. Archdeacon Williams, Kevd. Archdeacon Davies, Edward Morgan, Esq. ; Hugh
Bold, Esq. ; Revd. Thomas Watkins, Revd. Fleming Gough, Revd. Charles Griffith, David
Lloyd, Esq. ; William Gwynne, Esq. : Hugh Price, Esq. ; William Williams, Esqr., of
Brecon ; John Powell, Esqr., Maespoth ; William Morgan, Esq., Bolgoed ; Thomas Wil-
kins, Esqr. ; Walter Price, Esq. ; William Vaughan, Esq. ; George Griffies Williams, Esq. ;
Walter Williams, Esq.; Mr. Phillip Morgan, Air. John Dowries, Mr. Daniel Rees, Mr.
David Morgan, Mr. David Walter Powell, Mr. Lewis Powell, Mr. Thomas Thomas, Mr.
Thomas Robert Nicholas, Mr. Griffith Williams, Mr. Howell Powell, Mr. Thomas Powell,
Mr. Thomas Watkins, Castlemadock ; Mr. Jenkin Walter, Mr. Morgan Morgan, Mr.
Walter Jones, Mr. David Powell, of Tyle ; Mr. Llewelln. Powell, Mr. Watkiu Morgan,
(178)
Mr. Rees Jeffreys, Mr. John Church, and Mr. David Price, and any other Gentleman
interested who will give his Attendance, and that any Three be competent to act.
" Penry Williams, Esq. , having left the Chair —
" That the Thanks of the Meeting be given to him for his very able Conduct as
Chairman.
William Williams. W. Powell.
David Lloyd. John Powell.
Watkyn Lloyd. J. D. Watkins, for Father.
John Downes. Thomas Thomas.
D. H. Powell. Dd. Lewis.
Jenkin Morgan. Llewelyn Powell, Glyullech.
Griffith Roes. Lewelin Powell, Cwmpadest.
Thos. Powell. John Thomas.
R. Nicholas. Thomas Powell.
Lewis Powell. Owen Watkins.
Davd. Morgan. Lewis Havard.
Morgan Morgan. The x Mark of
David Price. John Williams, Senny.
David Matthew. William Walter.
Walter Jones. David Havard.
Jenkin Powell. John Jones.
Griffith Williams. Charles Jenkins.
Jenkin Walters. Howel Havard.
David Powell. DavidMorgan.
Edwd. Jones. John Walters, Hepste Fawr.
The Mark of
Thomas x Williams, Gwen-y-llan.
Thos. Powell Keven y Gweision.
We also Landowners, as within mentioned, approve of and agree to the foregoing
Resolutions.
John Williams, Arch-Deacon of Cardigan. Thomas Powell, Glyntawe.
A. M. Hughes. John Howoll Do.
Eliza A. G wynne. Watkin Morgom Do.
Thos. Powell. The Mark x of
Danl. Lloyd. David Watson Do.
William Jones, Ban Neath. The Mark x of
John Walter, Bronwyth. Watkin Bowens, Trecastle.
The Mark x of Thomas Davis, Ynisymarchog.
Elizabeth Powell, Cefn y Chelldre. Watkin Watkins, Brinmaeii.
Morgan Jones, Dyffryn Neath. Gwen Powell, Bryntyfarch.
David Jones of Llyssiog, Gladmorgan. Jennet Powell Do.
Howell Moses, Brynbwch. Enock Price, Fynonworgan.
Jenkin Jones, Kilfawr. Owen Morgan.
William Walter, Carnycrochan. James Evans, Cl'r.
John Walters, Gwernybleith. Thos. Thomas, Baileygreen (?).
John Howell for (?). William Williams,
Gwain Howell, Glyntawe. R. Williams,
Walter Price, Glynllech.
I Aberpergwt
(179)
;' I agree to the above resolutions, but not to support the defence to any action for
surcharging the Great Forest.
WiM. GWYN.
D. Powell Neath (Typpart y brin).
Ditto for William Powell (Peutrecrybarth).
F. Gough.
The Mark of
John x Powell, little Penywingon.
"[Endorsed] 15th June, 1813.
"Great Forest, of Brecknock.
"Resolutions entered into at the Village of Devynnock to Support all Actions brought
by the Crown against the Foresters."
PRIOR TO THE MEETING, the following letter had been received from the Marquess of
Camden : —
" Arlington Street,
"June 10th, 1813.
"DEAR SIR, — Having frequently conversed with you on the subject of the Great
Forest of Brecknock, I am desirous of your attending on my behalf at the Meeting to be
held at Devynnock, on Tuesday, the loth inst.
" I am ready to join with those interested in the proposed Business in defending our
Rights, and am ready and willing to subscribe thereto.
" If then the Business is in greater forwardness, and 1 learn from you the modo in
which it is meant to be defended, I will authorise you to subscribe for me towards the
expense of the suit, but if it is necessary to subscribe immediately I leave it to your
discretion so to do.
"I am,
" Walter Powell, Esq., " Yours very truly,
" Brecknock, (^>d.) " CAMDEN.
"S. Wales."
AND ON THE IST JULY a more formal document was prepared (a large Parchment Deed,
with names and seals of persons agreeing, the first three names being "Camden," " Charles
Morgan," and " Penry Williams," and the original of which imposing document is now
before me) and duly signed, binding all the signatories to pay their share of the expenses
necessary to the defence in these important suits.
"AGREEMENT, DATED IST JULY, 1813.
"ARTICLES OF AGREEMENT had, made, concluded, and finally agreed upon the 1st day
of July, in the 53rd year of the Reign of George the 3rd and in the year of our Lord 1813,
BETWEEN the SEVERAL PERSONS whose Names and Seals are hereunto subscribed and put,
and who are seized or possessed or entitled unto Ffarms or Lands within the Manor or
Lordship of Brecknock, in the County of Brecknock, of the first part, WATKIN LLOYD, of
Nantquarred, in the Parish of Llywell, in the County of Brecknock aforesaid, Gentleman,
and David Jones, of Glyn, in the Parish of Dev.yuuock, in the same County, Farmer, of the
second part, and WALTER POWELL and JOHN JONES, of the town of Brecknock, in the
County aforesaid, Attorneys-at-Law and Co-partners, and EDWARD JONES, the Elder, and
EDWARD JONES, the Younger, of the Town of Llandovery, in the County of Carmarthen,
Attornies-at-Law and Co-partners, of the third part.
" WHEREAS the Tenants, Resiants, and Inhabitants within the said Manor or Lordship
of Brecknock have or claim a right to depasture their Cattle, Horses, and Sheep upon the
open and unenclosed Tract of Land, Common, or Waste, called the Great Forest, other-
wise the Great Forest of Brecknock, lying in the County of Brecknock aforesaid, of which
Forest His Majesty the King of England claims to be seized in Ffee ; AND WHEREAS His
(180)
present Majesty's Attorney-General, for and on Behalf of His Majesty, hath caused the said
Wiitkin Lloyd and David Jones to be served with Writ of Subpoena at the suit of the said
Attorney-General, and he is now proceeding- against them for having intruded upon the
said Tract of Land, Common, or Waste, and eating up and depasturing the Grass and
Herbage growing thereon, with their Horses, Mares, Oxen, Cows, and other Cattle and
Sheep : AND WHEREAS the said Watkin Lloyd and David Jones have appeared for the
said suite ; AND WHEHEAS at a Meeting of Several of the Landowners within the said
Manor or Lordship of Brecknock, held at the village of Devynnock, within the said County
of Brecknock, on the (fifteenth day of Juno last past, for the purpose of taking into
Consideration the propriety of defending the s;iid suits, or any other suit or suits, action or
Actions, to lie brought by the Crown or any person or persons claiming under the Crown
against the Tenants of the said Manor or Lordship in respect to the said Great, Forest ; and
for adopting such Measures as might be thought most expedient for securing their Rights
and Privileges :
" It Was Resolved and determined to bear, pay, and discharge the Costs, Charges,
and Kxpences of all and ever}' suit and suits, Action and Actions, which had then already
been brought, or which at any time or times thereafter, within the space of (five years from
that Day, should or might be brought by the Crown or any person or persons claiming
under the Crown in manner thereinafter mentioned and hereinafter Covenanted to be paid ;
and that the conduct of such suit or suits, Action or Actions, should be intrusted to the
said Walter Powell and John Jones, and the said Edward Jones the Elder and Edward
Jones the Younger, and that they should from time to time take such Measures as might
be thought expedient for protecting such Rights.
" Now THESE PRESENTS WITNESS that We the several persons whose Names and Seals
are hereunto subscribed and put, considering that the Rights of ourselves and our Tenants
holding the Lands within the said Manor or Lordship to depasture and turn our and their
Horses, Cattle, and Sheep on the said Tract of open Land, Common, or Waste, are involved
in the said suits so brought and commenced against the said Watkin Lloyd and David
Jones as aforesaid, HAVE severally resolved and agreed to contribute and pay in manner
hereinafter mentioned towards the Defence of the aforesaid Suit, and each of them and all
and every other Suit and Suits, Action and Actions, to be commenced hereafter within
flive years from the said (fifteenth day of June last passed or on behalf of his said Majesty
or any person or persons claiming under him against the said Watkin Lloyd and David
Jones or either of them, or against any occupier or occupiers of Land within the said Manor
or Lordship of Brecknock in respect of such rights as aforesaid. AND (Further, WE have
severally agreed that the aforesaid suits and all and every Suit and Suits, Action and
Actions hereafter to be brought as aforesaid shall be defended by the said Walter Powell
and John Jones, and the said Edward Jones the Elder and Edward Jones the Younger,
jointly as our Attornies and Solicitors.
"AND THESE PRESENTS (further WITNESS, and the several and respective persons whose
names are hereunder written and seals hereto affixed, hereby for themselves severally, and
for their several Heirs, Exors., etc., and not one for the other of them or for the Heirs,
Exors., etc., of the other of them, DO and each and every one of them DOTH covenant,
promise, and agree to and with each other of them, and to and with the Heirs, Exors.,
etc., of each other by these presents in manner following (that is to say), That the several
persons whose names are hereto set and seals affixed, or their several Heirs, Exors., etc.,
shall and will bear and pay all the Damages, Costs, Charges, and Expences which may be
incurred or sustained in the Defence of both or either of the said Suits so brought against
the said Watkin Lloyd and David Jones as aforesaid, and also ALL Damages, Costs, Charges,
and Expences which may be incurred or sustained in all and every Suit or Suits, Action or
Actions, which at any time within (five years from the said (fifteenth day of June last past,
may be commenced or brought by or in the name of His said Majesty or any of his Succes-
sors, or by or in the Name of any person or persons claiming under His said Majesty or
any of his Successors against any or either of the Occupiers of Lands within the said Manor
or Lordship of Brecknock, and shall and will bear and pay Such Damages, Costs, Charges,
and Expences in the proportions and according to the survey of the Land Tax of the
(181)
several Farms and Lauds of which any or either of the said parties to these presents of the
ttirst part are seized as Owners within the said Manor or Lordship of Brecknock.
"And Also that it shall and may be lawful to and for the said Walter Powell and
John Jones, and Edward Jones the Elder and Edward Jones the Younger, and to and for
the Survivor and Survivors, as often as any Sum or Sums of Money shall be by them or him
wanted for the purpose of defending or carrying on the Defence of the aforesaid Suit or
Suits, Action or Actions, or any or either of them, to make out a List of the names of the
persons whose Names are hereunder written, and to charge each of such persons with such
proportion of such sum or sums of Money so wanted as aforesaid according to the Survey
set opposite their Names, and which is to be taken as the Criterion to be followed, in
apportioning such Sum and Sums of Money. AND the said persons whose Names are
hereunder written (excepting the said Walter Powell and Edward Jones the Elder) hereby
for themselves severally and for their several Heirs, Exors., etc., do covenant, promise, and
agree to, and with the said Walter Powell and John Jones, and the said Edward Jones the
Elder and Edward Jones the Younger, and the Survivors and Survivor of them, and the
Exors., etc., of such Survivor, that they will from time to time, during the continuance of
the said Suit or Suits, Action or Actions, upon Demand pay their respective proportions of
such sums or sums of Money so to be required or wanted as aforesaid to the said Walter
Powell and John Jones, and Edward Jones the elder and Edward Jones the Younger, or
the Survivor or Survivors of them, or the Exors., etc., of such survivor or some or one of
them, as often as they or he shall require or want such sum or sums of Money for the
purposes aforesaid (the said Walter Powell and Edward Jones the Elder hereby agreeing to
contribute and pay their respective proportions as owners of Lands within the said Manor
or Lordship of Brecknock). AND it is hereby further agreed that in case any of the
aforesaid persons whose Names are hereunder written shall become unable to pay their
several Quotas of the aforesaid payment, or any of them, That then and in all and every
such case or cases the Deficiency or Deficiences thereby happening shall lie borne, paid, and
defrayed by the rest of the persons whose names are underwritten, according to and after
the several proportions of Land Tax or Survey Hate set opposite their several and
respective names.
" PROVIDED ALWAYS and it is hereby agreed that the said Walter Powell and John
Jones, and Edward Jones the Elder and Edward Jones the Younger, and the Survivor and
Survivors of them and the Executors and Administrators of such Survivor, shall upon
Demand in writing being made by any ffive of the persons whose Names are hereunder
written, Give and deliver to some or one of such persons within one Month an Account in
writing of the Application of all and every sum and sums of money by them respectively
received for the purposes aforesaid. And that they the said Walter Powell and John Jones,
and Edward Jones the Elder and Edward Jones the Younger, or the Survivor or Survivors
of them or the Exors. of such Survivor, shall not and will not make any call or calls for
Monies upon the several persons nudernamed for the purposes aforesaid, whilst they or
either of them have in their hands a sum of Money exceeding the sum of Fifty pounds
unexpended in some or one of the purposes aforesaid ; and also that they the said Walter
Powell and John Jones, and Edward Jones the Elder and Edward Jones the Younger, or
the survivor or survivors of them, or the Exors., etc., of such survivor, shall and will upon
the completion of the aforesaid Suits all and every of them, in case any surplus shall remain
in their or his Hands of any Money arising as aforesaid, divide the same in proportion to
the Land Tax Survey to and amongst the several persons whose names are hereunder
written, their several Exors., etc., in such shares and proportions as they shall be re-
spectively entitled thereto.
"PROVIDED lastly, and it is hereby further declared and agreed by us whose names are
hereunto set and seals affixed, that no Tenant or Tenants of Lands within the said Manor
or Lordship of Brecknock, who shall sign these presents, shall in the capacity of a Tenant
be obliged to contribute for the Expences of the Suit or Suits, Action or Actions, above-
mentioned. IN WITNESS whereof the said Parties to these presents have hereunto set their
Hands and Seals the day and year first within written."
VOL. II. B B
(182)
Camden.
Chas. Morgan.
Penry Williams.
Ed. Morgan.
David Lloyd.
Jno. Powell.
John Dowues.
David Lloyd.
Watkin Lloyd.
Lewis Powell.
D. W. Powell.
John Jones.
David Matthews.
Jenkiu Powell.
W. Powell.
T. R. Nicholas.
The Mark x of Margaret Jones.
Walter Jones.
Watkiu Watkins.
Morgan Jones.
Thomas Powell.
Rees Price.
Thomas Thomas.
Thos. Morgan.
Howell Powell.
The Mark x of Wm. Morgan.
Rees Llewellyn.
The Mark x of John Williams.
Howell Howell.
Gwen Powell.
For Mother and Self.
The Mark x of Elizabeth Williams.
Jenkiu Walters.
John Walter.
William Jones.
Lewis llavard.
Wm. Jeffreys.
Abraham Jenkins.
Llewellu Powell.
Thomas Powell.
John Powell.
David Morgans.
Morgan Morgans.
The Mark x of John Evans.
Watkiu Morgan.
David Powells.
Lewelin Powell.
Owen Morgan.
Dd. Lewis.
William Williams.
Thomas Powell.
David Jones.
Daniel Rees.
Griffith Williams.
The Mark x of Thomas Williams.
Thos. Powell.
David Powell
Walter Price.
John Powell.
John Williams.
James Evans.
Thos. H. Powell
Will Vaughan for
?
Hugh Bold.
Richard Price.
David Price.
Enoch Price.
Davd. Morgan.
For Father and Self.
David Price.
Robt. Williams.
A. Maria Powell.
Edwd. Jones.
Thomas Davis.
J. Williams.
The Within Articles of Agreement were signed, sealed, and Delivered by the MARQUIS
CAMDEX, whose Name and Seal are subscribed and put to the Same, in the presence of
JOHX IVESOX,
Pall Mall
The Within Articles of Agreement were signed, sealed, and delivered by SIR CHARLES
MORGAN, whose name and Seal are subscribed and put to the same, in the Presence of
G. BURLET,
Lincoln's Inn, New Square.
The Within Articles of Agreement were signed, sealed, and delivered by PEXRV WILLIAMS,
Esquire, whose name and Seal are subscribed and put to the same in the Presence of
JOHN POWELL,
Brecknock.
The within Articles of Agreement were signed, [sealed, and delivered by the several Persons
whose names and seals are respectively subscribed and put to the same, except the
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Marquis Camdeu, Sir Charles Morgan, Penry Williams, Esquire, Robert Williams,
Esquire, Joliu Powell, the Reverend John Williams, and the Reverend James Evans,
being first duly stamped in the Presence of
HOWL. WILLIAMS.
LIST OF PERSONS WHO HAVE EXECUTED THE GREAT FOREST DEED, WITH PLACES OP
THEIR RESPECTIVE RESIDENCES.
The Marquis Camdeu.
Sir Chas. Morgan, Bart., Tredegar.
Penry Williams, Esq., Peupont.
Edw. Morgan, Esq., Llangattoek, Crickhowell.
David Lloyd, Esq., Aberllech.
Mr. John Powell, Maesporth, Llywell.
Mr. John Dowues, Devymiock.
Mr. Daul. Lloyd, Brecon.
Mr. Watkin Lloyd, Nautgwared, Llywell.
Mr. Lewis Powell, Maescarnog.
Mr. Dd. Walter Powell, Abersenuy.
Mr. John Jones, Llwyncrychydd.
Mr. David Mathewg, Ystradvellte.
Mr. Jenkin Powell, Goytre, do.
Walter Powell, Esq., Brecon.
Mr. Thos. Robt. Nicholas, Trecastle.
Margaret Jones, W°, Coedhowell, Devyunock.
Mr. Walter Jones, Bronwydd, Ystradvellte.
Mr. Llewelyn Powel, Glynllech.
Mr. Thos. Powell, Glyntawy.
Mr. John Powell, Glyntawy.
Mr. Dd. Morgans, Aberoray, Llywell.
Mr. Morgan Morgans, Llywel).
Mr. John Evans, Drain dunn, Llywell.
Mr. Watkiu Morgan, Glyntawy.
Mr. David Howells, Llywell.
Mr. Lewelin Powell, Cwmpadest, Dev'k.
Mr. Owen Morgan, Llywell.
Mr. David Lewis, Penybont, Devynnock.
Rev. Wm. Williams, Llanvillo.
Mr. Thos. Powell, Clyumeddig.
Mr. David Jones, Trecastle.
Mr. Daniel Rees, Kevennmeskar, Dev'k.
Mr. Griffith Williams, Llandilovaur.
Mr. Thos.Williams, Kevengweision, Llywell.
Mr. Watkin Watkins, Brynmaen, Llywell.
Mr. Morgan Jones, Dyffrin Neath.
Mr. Thomas Howells, Llywell.
Mr. Rces Pryce do.
Mr. Thomas Thomas, Cray, Devynnock.
Mr. Thos. Morgan, Cray.
Mr. Howell Powell, Cefn Rhossan.
Mr. William Morgan, Cray.
Mr. Rees Llewellyn, Llywell.
Mr. John Williams, Senny, Devymiock.
Mr. Howell Howard, Senny.
Mrs. Jennet Powell, Bryntwarch, Llywell.
Miss Gwen Powell do.
— Elizabeth Williams, Llywell.
Mr. Jenkin Walters, Ystradvellte.
Mr. John Walter do.
Mr. William Jones, Bolgoed, Llanspd.
Mr. Lewis Havard, Senny.
Mr. Wm. Jeffreys, Sclydach, Llywell.
Mr. Charles Jenkins, Devynnock.
Mr. Abraham Jenkins (his Son) do.
Mr. David Price, Cra}".
Mr. Enoch Price, Llywell.
Mr. David Morgan, Senny.
Mr. David Price, Park, Trallong.
Eobt. Williams, Esq., Monmouth.
Mrs. Anna Maria Powell, Brecon.
Edwd. Jones, Esq., Llandovery.
Mr. Thomas Davis, Ynismarchog, Llywell.
John Williams, Esq., Brecon.
Revd. Thos. Powell, Cantreff.
Mr. David Powell.
Mr. Walter Price, Glynllech.
Mr. Juo. Powell.
Revd. Archdn. Williams, Abercamlais.
Revd. James Evans, Bailybedw, Llywell.
A LIST OF PERSONS WHO HAVE SIGNED THE RESOLUTIONS, BUT HAVE NOT EXECUTED
THE BEFORE-MENTIONED DEED, WITH THEIR BESPECTIVK RESIDENCES.
Mr. Jenkin Morgan, Porth, Ystradvelltey.
Mr. Griffith Rees, Cefnmaescar.
Mrs. David Powell, Junr., Tyle, Ystradvellte.
Mr. J. J. Watkins, Dderry, Glyntawy.
Mr. John Thomas, Cray, Devynnock.
Mr. Thos. Powell, Devynnock.
Mr. Owen Watkins, Tyle, Llywell.
Mr. Wm. Walter, Devynnock.
Mr. David Havard do.
Mr. Jno. Walters, Hepste.
Mr. Thos. Williams, Gwenyllan.
Mr. Thos. Powell, Cefugweision.
Mrs. Anna Maria Hughes, Tregunter.
Mrs. Eliza Anne Gwynne do.
(184)
Mr. \Vra. Jones, Blaen Nedd, Ystradvellte. Wm. Williams, Esq. 1 Al)eruenrwin
Mrs. Elizth. Powell, Cefu Ucheldre. Rees Williams, Esq. j
Mr. Dd. Jones, Glamorgan. Wm. Gwyn, Esq., Neatli.
Mr. Howell Moses, Brynbwch, Ystradvellte. David Powell, Esq., Neath.
Mr. .lenkin Jones. Mr. Wm. Powell, his Bro.
Mr. Wm. Walter, Carnycrochau. Kevd. Fleming Gough, Ystradgunlais.
Mr. David Watson, Glyntawe. Mr. John Powell, Little Penywingon, Lly-
Mr. Watkin Bowens, Trecastle. well.
Mr. Thos. Thomas, Bailygwern.
The opinions of Mr. Holroyd and Mr. Taunton were ordered to be taken on the
pleading, and a case was prepared and the proofs of a Dumber of witnesses taken.
IN THE KING'S BENCH, BRECKNOCKSHIRE.
The King, on the Information of the Attorney-General, against WATKIN LLOYD, Gent.,
for Intrusion.
The same against DAVID JONES, Farmer, for Intrusion.
DEFENDANTS' CASE.
The Manor or Lordship of Brecknock extends over part of the several parishes of
Devynnock, Llywell, Llanspythid, Ystradvellty, Ystradgunlais, Penderrin in the Hundred
of Devynnock, in the County of Brecknock, part of the several parishes of Trallong,
Llandilofan, Llanfihangelnantbraue, Merthyr cynog, Llanfihangel f'echan, and Garth
Brengy, in the Hundred of Merthyr, in the said County ; part of the several parishes of
Cantretr, Llauthetty, and Llangasty talyllyn, in the Hundred of Penkelly, in the said
County, and part of the parish of St. Davids (which is partly in the said Hundred of
Devynnock and partly in the said Hundred of Penkelly), in the said County.
This Manor is now the property of Sir Chas. Morgan, Bart., whose Ancestor, Wm.
Morgan, Esq., in the year 1639, purchased it of Phillip, Earl of Pembroke, who purchased
it in the 8th year of the reigu of Chas. the 1st of Sir Wm. Kussell, in trust for whom that
King had, in the seventh year of his Reign, conveyed the Fee to Trustees, Subject to a Fee
Farm rent of ,£54 Os. \\d., and which Fee Farm rent the late Sir Charles Morgan, in the
year 1787, purchased of the Crown.
Within the Manor is a large District of Country called the Great Forest, or more
frequently, the Bound land, consisting of several Farms and Estates belonging to different
persons, and lying in part of the several parishes of Devynnock, Llywell, Ystradgunlais,
Ystradvellty, Llanspythid, and Penderrin.
In the District there is a range of Hills of several miles in extent, and supposed to
contain several thousand acres, generally called the great Forest, or the Great Forest of
Brecknock, tho' it is much doubted whether that name ought not now in strictness to
appertain to the District before mentioned, to which (from every enquiry) it belonged in
Antient times ; but from cultivation and other improvements of modern times, the District
lost the appearance and most of the qualities of a Forest, and therefore the name became
transferred to the range of Hills which extend to all the parishes in which the District
lies. And, indeed, different parts of the range of Hills bear their own particular names,
as will be seen by the Evidence, such as Vole Mity, Cwmpadest, Keven Keel, Ehyddven
Vole Mity, etc.
Within the District there were formerly seven Mills, called Devynnock, Cray, Sentry,
Llywell, Ystradvellty, Glyutawe, and Pwllcoch Mills, at which most, if not all, the Tenants
and Inhabitants of the District, and also those inhabitants of the parts of the several
parishes in which the District lies, but still not comprising part of the District, were bound
to grind their Corn, and to do several services, such as cleaning the ponds, etc. And this
(185)
circumstance, it is supposed, explains the meaning of the name of Bound Lmd given to the
District, and also to the other parts of the parishes (in parts whereof the District lies) and
not comprised within the District. Some of the Mills are now down, but 2 or 3 of them
still remain, and are the property of individuals to whom the Crown sold them a few years
back; and the Inhabitants of those parts of the Country which are supposed to have been
formerly bound to grind their Corn at those Mills, are still considered to be so bound, tho'
the other services from length of time are got into disuse.
It is understood that in Antient times the District of Country before mentioned was
in the possession of the Crown, but from circumstances which no person can now explain,
and which History does not trace, it was formed and divided into Farms and Estates, and
became the property of individuals, as before alluded to ; yet the range of Hills ever
continued the property of the Crown (but when parted to its Favourites, from whom it
reverted back again), and now remains in its possession, or the possession of its Lessees.
In the parish of Devymiock there is a district of Country, called the Little Forest,
which formerly belonged to the Crown, and as appears by Jones's History of Brecknock-
shire, was granted by Henry the 8th to Thomas Lord Seymour of Sudiey, High Admiral
of Great Britain, and upon his Attainder in 1548 became forfeited to the Crown, which
afterwards bestowed it upon some Favorite, from whom it was purchased, and became the
property of Individuals who lately sold it. Mr. Jones says the Lands but not the Manor
were sold. It does not appear that there ever was a Manor attached to this property ; and
Mr. Jones seems to have got into the same mistake respecting the Great Forest, as he calls
that a Manor, tho' there are no Courts or any properties of a Manor belonging to it : the
dift't Farms in that District paying chief rent and all other services to the Lord of the
Manor of Brecknock.
All the occupiers of lands and inhabitants (as it is believed, but this is not very clear)
of the District of the Great Forest, and also of the whole of the Lordship of Brecknock
(excepting the Little Forest), have from time immemorial depastured on the range
of Hills in the District of the Great Forest, now called the Great Forest or the Great
Forest of Brecknock, their horses, Cattle, and sheep, without number every year (in some
instances from May to Michas., and in others all the year), paying to the Crown or its
Lessees for the same after the rate and computation of Kyvryve, an Old Welsh word
signifying a Customary computation or reckoning.
The occupiers of Lands within the District, called the Great Forest, pay as follows : —
One Horse or one Mare broken to labour (which the Country calls
being shod) . . . . .1 Penny.
One Ox or One Cow . . . . .1 Penny.
One Steer (two making the Kyvryve) . . . i Penny.
One Heifer not in Calf (do.) . . . -2 Pewnj'
One Yearling Beast (four making the Kyvryve) . . 1 Farthing.
For sheep under a Hundred 2d. a score, and for a Hundred Sd.,
and at that rate upwards.
All the occupiers of Lands, and inhabitants (if at all) of those -other parts of the
several parishes, in part whereof the District called the Great Forest lies, make exactly
double the foregoing payments ; and the occupiers of Lands, and inhabitants (if at all) in
the rest of the Lordship of Brecknock (except the Little Forest, the Tenants and inhabi-
tants of which have no right as before ment'd) pay for every head of Beast 4d., and for
every score of Sheep 8d., and so in proportion for any greater or less number, but they
seldom turned sheep, as they had Commons adapted for sheep nearer home to which they
usually turned them.
This Custom of turning Horses, Cattle, and sheep to the range of Hills, now called the
Great Forest, or Great Forest of Brecknock, has been used, as is supposed, from time
immemorial, tho' its commeu't is by some people said to be in the first year of the Reign
of Richard the 3rd under a grant from him, which Grant, as is also said, was confirmed by
(ISO)
Henry the 8th in the 30th year of his reign, but such Grant or the confirmation are not in
the hands of any of the persons interested in turning to the Hills, tho' sev'l of them have
papers purporting to be copies of the confirmation, which cannot in any way be authenti-
cated. Mr. Illingworth, of the Record Office in the Tower, has been employed to make
searches for the Grant and confirmation in all the Record Offices, and annexed is a State-
ment of what papers he has found which bear upon the subject, (See ante.)
The Crown has from time to time and ever since the Attainder of Edward, Duke of
Buckingham, in the reign of Henry the 8th (l-r>21), and of whose possessions the Lordship
of Brecknock and the Great Forest and the Little Forest formed part, been accustomed
to grant Leases of the Agistment, Herbage, and pannage of the range of Hills before
mentioned by the name of the Great Forest of Brecknock to individuals, at certain annual
rents, and in all those Leases to the present period, the first of which bears date the (not
stated), and the lust in 1770, there is a Covenant from the Lessee to the following effect :—
" That he shall permit all the Tenants, resiante, and inhabitants of the Lordship of
Brecknock, and all other persons who heretofore had a right to have pannage, Herbage, and
Agistment within the Forest aforesaid or any part thereof, to have and enjoy the same as
they were heretofore accustomed to have and enjoy the same."
This Clause being in each of the Leases, it is presumed is a direct admission upon the
part of the Crown that the Tenants and inhabitants of the Lordship of Brecknock have a
right of pasturage on the range of Hills before ment'd.
The last Lease granted by the Crown expired in 1801, but the Lessee has held on,
and is now in possession as Tenant, paying the rent reserved by the Lease. It has been
usual for the Lessee, who was generally a Gentleman of consequence and property in the
Neighbourhood, or connected with the Country, some times to let out the Agistment to
persons for about the same rent as that reserved by the Lease ; and at other times to
appoint persons to manage the Agistment, and to collect the payment from the different
persons having a right to the Hills ; these persons were generally called " Forresters," and
it did not unfrequently happen that they made considerable Sums of their Situations, for
they paid the Lessee only the rent reserved on his Lease, tho' they were in the habit of
taking in Cattle to eat the surplusage Grass from Glamorganshire and Carmarthenshire,
and the inhabitants of the Little Forest at a certain Sum per head ; and raising heavy
contributions from those who turned without agreeing with them for the same. It may
not be improper to observe here, tho' perhaps immaterial in the case, that the rent reserved
to the Crown on all the Leases is the same as in the first Lease granted by (blank), viz.,
£20 6s. 8d.
Notwithstanding the remarkable tenaciousness and Jealousy of these Forresters, yet
no interruption was ever given to the Tenants and Inhabitants of the Lordship of
Brecknock, excepting those of the Little Forest, turning to the Hills as before mentioned ;
but since the expiration of the last Lease, it is understood that the Office of Laud Revenue
of the Crown has been desirous of selling these Hills in different Allotments, and
preparatory thereto it, in the year 1795, caused a Survey and enquiry to be made of the
same, and of the Rights claimed by the Tenants and Inhabitants of the Lordship of
Brecknock to pasturage there ; and on referring to the Survey made, it is found that the
usage of turning to the Hills exercised by the Tenants and inhabitants is therein set forth,
and the several payments are stated, and they appear to be exactly the same as those before
mentioned, with the exception that tho Survey states " That all persons residing within
the boundary of the Forest and not being occupiers of lands nor assessed to the parish
rate, such as Handicraft and Hired servants, etc., have a right to depasture Cattle and
other Stock upon the Forest, paying yearly as follows, viz. : —
" For every Cow, Horse, or other Beast . . . 4<Z.
" For every Hundred of Sheep . . 6d.
" For any number less than a Hundred . . per score 2d."
And this Survey also states that all occupiers having ;i right of pasture upon the
Great Forest may turn out any number uf Cattle or other Stock, over and above such as
are levant and couchant upon their respective Holdings, at any time whatsoever, paying
the usual rate for the same.
Altho' this Survey was so favorable to the Rights of the Tenants and Inhabitants of
the Lordship of Brecknock, yet the Crown finding, as is supposed, that those Tenants and
Inhabitants insisted on such Claims, and conceiving perhaps that the Origin of the same
lay in some doubt and obscurity, has caused, by way of bringing the rights into question,
Two Actions to be brought for Intrusion on the Hills, one against the sd. \Vatkin Lloyd
and the other against the sd. David Jones.
The following are copies of the Information, filed against both : —
IN THE EXCHEQUER, re WATKIX LLOYD.
Easter Term, in the 53rd year of the Reign of
King George the third.
Brecknockshire to wit.
Be it remembered that Sir Wm. Garrow, Knt., Attorney-General of our Lord the now
King, who for our said Lord the King now prosecutes, being present here in Court on the
5th day of May in the same term in his proper person for our said Lord the King, Gives the
Court here to understand and be informed, That whereas a certain Tract of Land called
the Great Forest of Brecknock, in the said County of Brecknock, containing divers to wit :
Sixty thousand acres of land in the hands and possession of our said Lord the now King,
on the 1st day of Jan'ry, in the 52'd year of his reign, and long before was and of right
ought to have been and from thence hitherto has been, and of right ought to have been
and still is and still of right origin ought to be in right of his Croivu of England, as by
many Records, Rolls, and Remembrances of this same Exchequer more fully appears of
Record, Nevertheless one Watkin Lloyd, of the parish of Llywell, in the said County of
Brecknock, Gentleman, the Laws of our said Lord the King not fearing, but intending and
contriving by disinherison of our said Lord the King, with force and arms, etc., on the s'd
1st day of January, in the 52ud year of his Reign aforesd., in and upon the possession of
our sd. Lord the King, of the premises entered, intruded, and made ingress, and the grass
and Herbage growing on the said Tract of Land, of the value of £100 of lawful money of
Great Britain, with his Horses, mares, Oxen, Cows, and other Cattle and sheep, eat up,
depastured, trod down and consumed the Trespass aforesaid hitherto, and yet continuing in
contempt of our said Lord the King and against his Laws, And that whereas a certain
other Tract of Land called the Great Forest of Brecknock, in the County of Brecknock,
containing divers to wit, Sixty thousand acres of Laud MI the hands and possession of our
said Lord the now King, in, upon and over which divers persons having lands adjacent
now of right have and exercise and from time immemorial of right had, used, and exercised
common of pasture for all their Commouable Cattle, levant and couchant, in and upon
their resp'ive lauds as to their resp'ive lands belongg and appertai'ng on the said first day
of January, in the sd. 52nd year of his reign, and long before was and of right ought to
have been, and from thence hitherto has been and of right ought to have been, and still of
right ought to be in right of his Crown of England, as by many Records, Rolls, and
Remembrances of this same Exchequer more fully appears of Record, Nevertheless, the
sd. Watkin Lloyd, the Laws of our said Lord the King not fearing, but intend'g and
contriv'g the disinherison of our said Lord the King with force and arms, etc., on the sd.
1st day of Janry. in the sd. 52nd year of his reign afsd., in and upon the possession of our
sd. Lord the King, of the premises entered, intruded, and made ingress, and the grass and
herbage then growing on the sd. last ment'd Tract of Land, of the value of £100 of lawful
money of Great Britain, with his Horses, Mares, Oxen, Cows, and other Cattle and Sheep,
eat up, depastured, trod down, and consumed the trespasses aforesaid hitherto and yet
continuing in contempt of our said Lord the King and against his Laws, wherefore the sd.
Attorney-General of our said Lord the King, who for onr sd. Lord the King in this behalf
prosecutes, and for our said Lord the King prays the Consideration of the Court here in
(188)
tlie premises, and that due process of Law may be awarded against the said Watkin
Lloyd in this behalf, to make him Answer to our sd. Lord the King there touching the
premes. afsd.
\V. GAHHOW.
IN THE EXCHEQUER re DAVID JONES.
Easter Term in the 53rd year of the Reign of
King George the Third.
Brecknockshire to wit.
BE IT REMEMBERED that Sir Win. Garrow, Knt., Attorney of our Lord the now King,
etc. (Here follows a precisely similar Information, word for word, against David Jones,
defendant, for disinherison, intrusion, and Trespass, and which concludes thus): —
Wherefore the said Attorney-General of our said Lord the King, who for our sd. Lord the
King in this behalf prosecutes for our sd. Lord the King, prays the cons'ou of the Court
here in the premises, and that due process of Law may be awarded against the said David
Jones in this behalf to make him answer to our said Lord the King, touching the premises
aforesaid.
Sd. W. GARROW.
Mr. Lloyd occupies an extensive Farm called Nantgwuarred in that part of the parish
of Llywell, which is not within the District called the Great Forest, but in the Lordship of
Brecknock, as Tenant to his brother Mr. David Lloyd, the proprietor of the same.
Mr. Watkin Lloyd has been in the habit of turning up to the Hills every year Horses,
Cattle, and Sheep (particularly great numbers of the latter), paying for the same in
manner stated as to those persons resident in those parts of the several parishes to which
the District of the Great Forest extends, but not within that district.
Mr. David Jones occupies a Farm called Blaenglyii, otherwise Tymawr, in the Hamlet
of Glyn, in the parish of Devynnock, and within the said district of Country called the
Great Forest, as tenant to Mr. John Powell, This Farm adjoins to and fences against the
Hills, and thereon same depastures his Cattle, horses, and sheep in the Summer, and some
of the Horses and Sheep in the Winter also, paying every year for each head the Sums
stated in respect to those persons residing within the district called the Great Forest.
The following contains the nature of the Parol evidence which can be adduced by the
Defts. in support of their rights.
(As to usage of the Great Forest, but in the Lordship.)
MORGAN DAVID, of Devynnock Village, aged 88.
That he commenced Farmer of Bayley Bedw farm, and continued there 30 years.
That during all that time he turned his oxen and young Cattle and Colts to the Great
Forest during the Summer, and that they depastured there without interruption.
(As to usage within the Great Forest.)
WILLIAM DAVID, of Trewgam in Ystradvellty, aged 85.
That he has lived at Trewgam, which is in the Great Forest, for years and as a
Farmer, until about 4 years ago, when he gave up the Farm, Stock, etc., to his Sou
Richard, with whom he now lives. That he invariably turned his Cattle and horses of all
descriptions, as well as his Sheep, to the Great Forest, and sometimes his Milch Cows, and
that without interruption, and his father did so before him. That he paid yearly to the
Forrester \d. for each Horse shod, Id. for each Ox, Id for each Cow, \d. for each young
beast above one year old, a Farthing for every yearly beast, a \d. for every Mare not shod,
and for every Colt not broken to labour. That he always satisfied the Forrester for the
time being for the sheep, but does not recollect what.
(189)
That he never kept above 50 or 60 sheep, but in general less, that all the Ystrad-
vellty Farmers turned up just as this witness did, that many kept a great part of their
Sheep on the Hills the Winter as well as the Summer.
WILLIAM DAVID, of Llanilltid in the Glyn, in the parish of Devynnock,
aged 78 years.
That he took Llanilltid farm, and farmed it for 45 or 46 years, that during all that
time he turned up his Oxen, his young Cattle and Sheep, to the Great Forest every
summer, and he left some Horses (generally called Hill horses, from their being small and
east, on the Hills) thereon all the year and no interruption given. That he paid Id. for
every Ox, a \d. for every beast above a year, and \d. for every yearling beast ; that before
he took this farm lie lived with his mother at Dan-y-graig farm in the Glyn. That his
mother turned up her Oxen, Horses, and young Cattle and Colts as well as Sheep every
Summer, and as the farm adjoin'd to the Hills, she turned up her Cattle (Cows included)
from the beast house in the Winter, that she paid for the Oxen, horses, and young Cattle
as witness, and paid for every Colt a \d., that his mother and himself paid Sd. for every
lOOd Sheep, that before he farmed Llanilltid he lived as Servant with Thomas William
Morgan at the farm of Carno in Glyn, that Thomas William Morgan turned up to the
great forest about 900 Sheep, and kept the. greatest part of them the winter, as well as
Oxen, Horses, and young Cattle without Interruption, and paid for them in the same
manner as witness did. That when witness lived with Thomas William Morgan he often
told witness that he could turn up as many sheep as he pleased.
(As to the part of Llywell Parish in the Great Forest).
JOHN POWELL, Sychnaut, Llywell, aged 85 years.
That he rented the ffurm of Llwynbwchan in Llywell about 33 years ago, and held it
for 30 years. That during all that time he turned up all his sheep from ye Farm every
summer to the part of the hills in Llywell Parish called Vole-vyty without interruption,
that he paid the Forester sometimes one shilling, sometimes 2s. a year as he could agree.
(As to the part of Llywell within the great Fforest, and as to the Def'r Lloyd's
ffarm, which is not within the Great Forest)
MORGAN WILLIAM, Llywell Village, aged 76.
Was born at a ffarm called Varllwyn, in the Parish of Llywell and within the great
forest and adjoining the Hills, and he, and his father before him, held that farm for 40
years, that they turned up their Stock to the Hills in the great fforest without interruption,
paying the forester Id. for every shod Horse, Id. every Ox, J every barren beast above a
year and \ every yearling, 8d. the 100 for the sheep, and if under 100, 2d. a score. He kept
Hill Horses but paid nothing for them. That Mr. Lloyd of Blaenclydach, who held for a
greater number of years Blaeuclydach ffarm (which is also in the parish of Llywell but not
in the Great Forest), and also Nantquarred for 7 years, always turned sheep there to an
immense number.
(As to Nant Gwarred and Llywell Parish.)
MORGAN MORGAN, of Cwmwysk, aged 70.
Has held two ffarms within the great Forest for a great number of years, and turned
up his Stock to that part of the Hills called Mynidd-wysk without interruption, and paid
the Forest Duty ; frequently saw the Nant Quarred and Blaenclydach sheep depastured
on several parts of the hills, and particularly that part called Glasfynydd for a great
number of years.
(As to Devynnock in the Great Forest.)
THOMAS JOHN, HEOLSENNY, Labourer, aged 75.
Shepperdhed sheep for two or three farmers in Devynnock on the Great Forest, and
the Devynnock Farmers kept their sheep there without interruption.
VOL. II. C C
(190)
(As to Devynnock and Ystrad vellte in the Great Forest.)
JOHN HAVAKD, HEOI.SENNY, Labourer, aged 82.
Farmed at Blaensenny for near 40 years, proves the turning up without interruption.
(As to Devynnock iu the Great Forest.)
REES HAVARD, Cray, Aged 72, turned up to the Hills.
(As to Devynnock, Ystradgunlais, and Llywell, in the Great Forest, and Llywell
out of the Gi-eat Forest.)
LEWELLIN POWELL, of Blaen Tawe Vechan, within the part of the District called
Glyntawy, which lies in the parish of Llywell, aged 84.
Has farmed in Glyntawy from his youth. Every farm he has held bordered upon the
Hills on the Great Forest, and he and his Father before him always turned up their horses,
oxen, young Cattle, and sheep in the Summer without interruption, paying the Forester
1 (/. every Horse, Id. every Ox, and \ every young beast.
That those in that part of the Parish of Llywell which lies on the south side of the
Usk, and is within the Great Forest, pay the Id., etc., only, and those the other side being
out of the great Forest pay double.
Glyntawe is a District of Country which comprizes parts of Devynnock, Llywell, and
Ystradgunlais Parishes.
(Part of Devynock, Llywell, and Ystradgunlais.)
WILLIAM MORGAN, of Wernddu in Glyntawe, aged 72.
Has always turned up without interruption as Llewellin Powell did. That he paid
Samuel Hovvell as Forester Is. 6d. yearly, now he pays John Powell as Forrester 2s.
That the Inhabitants of Devynnock, Ystradgunlais, and Llywell, turned up, and
among them Mr. Lloyd of Blaenclydach, when living.
(As to Defynnock and Ystrad vellty in the Great Forest.)
THOMAS JENKINS, WERNFAWR in Senny, aged 86.
About <iO years ago witness commenced' Farmer in Senny, having succeeded his
Father, and continued in the same farm, which adjoins the Great Forest, for ab't 20 years ;
that during all that time he turned up his horses, Oxen, Young Cattle, Hill Horses, and
Sheep without Interruption, paying the Forester Id. for every shod horse, \d. every Ox,
and he thinks | for every young beast and hill horse, and Id. a score under a 100 for the
sheep, and Sd. a 100 when a 100 or more. That his Father before him did the same, and
his Father kept 500 or 600 Sheep at, a time between the Hills and the farm both Summer
and Winter.
(As to the Parish of Devynnock, in the Great Forest, and as to the part of the
Parish of Llywell, not, in the Great Forest.)
MR. THOMAS POWELL, aged 75.
Was born at Cwmpadest, adjoining the part of the Hill called Cwmpadest, in the
Parish of Devynnock. He lived at Cwmpadest Farm until he was about 25 years of age. That
his father used to turn every year, about May, his cattle, horses, and sheep up to the Hill,
and used to keep some of his Horses and sheep on the Hills the whole year, but he does
not recollect what payment his ffather made for the same; he certainly made some
payment. That he went from Cwmpadest, to live at his own farm, called Bwlfa, in the
part of the Parish of Llywell not in the Great Forest, and near the Deft Lloyd's Farm,
and in the Lordship of Brecknock, and lived there 40 years ; that during these 40 years
he was accustomed every year to turn his young Cattle to the parts of the Hills called
Cwmpadest and Keveucil, and for these he paid 2d a head to the Foresters. He used to
turn up the cattle every year about May, and bring them down about Michaelmas.
(191)
(As to Llywell — both in and out of the Great Forest — and as to the Parish of
Llandilofane, and as to Nantgwarred.)
ELIAS WILLIAMS, of the Parish of Llywell, aged 72 years and upwards.
That he was born in the hamlet of Traianglas, in the Parish of Llywell, and has lived
there all his Life ; that he was born on the Farm of Trohedrwern, within the Great Forest,
which his father held ; that he lived there till he was 16 years of age, and he fully
remembers for 8 years before ; recollects his Father turning his Horses, Cows, and other
Cattle and Sheep to the part of the Hills in the Great Forest called the Ryddven, which
the ffarm adjoined ; that they frequently remained there the whole year : that his ffather
used to pay every year to the Foresters the payment called the Forest tax, as follows: —
For every horse that was shod, Id. ; for every Cow, !</. ; for every Ox or Bullock, Id. ; for
every Steer, %d. ; for every heifer, \d. ; for every yearling, $d. ; and for every score of
sheep, 2rf.
That the whole neighbourhood used to turn up to the Hills; that in the time he lived
at Mitty Mawr Farm, the people of the Parish of Llywell and those of the Parish of
Landilofane (a Parish in the Lordship, but not in the Great Forest) used to turn up to the
Vole Mitty, and witness, as he lived near the Hill, used to take care of them as a shep'd ;
that they usually turned up young Cattle and Sheep ; that the people of the Parish of
Llandilofane used to pay the Foresters price, 4d. a head, for the cattle, but, he does not
know what they paid for sheep; that he always understood all the Inhabitants of the
Lordship, as well as the Inhabitants of the Great Forest, had a right to turn to the hills,
and he never heard of any interruption.
(As to Deft. Lloyd's Farm, as to parish of Devynnock on the Great Forest. )
Mr. Thomas Price, aged 84 years, went to live at Nantgwarred (Deft Lloyd's Farm)
as Tenant 60 years ago, and succeeded the late Mr. Chas. Price, who owned the farm, and
remained there as Tenant 11 years ; that during all that time lie turned every year 3 or
400 head of sheep to the hills in the Great Forest, and paid 4</. a score to the Forester ;
that the Occupiers of other farms in the neighbourhood of Nantgwarred turned their
Horses, cattle, and sheep to those Hills (excepting those who had a right of common on a
small hill in the Neighbourhood adjoining their Farms, but to which Nantgwarred had no
right to turn), those persons who turned to the Hills in the Forest paid, as witness
understood, 2d. a horse shoed, 'id. an Ox, Id. a steer, Id. a Heifer, |d. a yearling,
}£ a Colt.
(As to Devynnock, in the Great Forest and the Lordship).
MR. WILLIAM GRIFFITHS, aged 85 years and upwards.
That he was born in the parish of Devynnock, and has lived there all his Life ; that
his father held the farm of Clyn, in the said parish, and adjoining part of the Hills in the
Great Forest called Kevenceel, and lived there with his ffather till he was thirty-two years
of age ; that during all this time his father used to turn up his Horses, Sheep, and Cattle
to the Hills every year, and kept some of them there all the year ; that his Father used to
make the payment called the Kyvryve, or forest tax, every year to the Forester for the
same ; that when he was 22 years of age witness married and went to live at a farm called
Abertreweren near Devynnock village, and remained there for 7 years and a-half ; that he
used to turn up Cattle, horses, and sheep every year to the hills, and used to pay the
Foresters every year for the same on the lump ; that ho always understood this payment
went to the King or his Tenants, and that the Foresters were persons chosen to collect the
same ; that he went from Abertreweren to the farm of Blaencray in the same parish, and
lived there 30 years ; that he was accustomed to turn up his horses, cattle, and sheep to
the hills from thence.
(192)
^(As to the Great Forest and the whole Lordship.)
WILLIAM HOPKINS, aged 73 3 ears and upwards,
Was born in the Parish of Devynnook, and has lived in the Hamlet of Cray in that
parish since he was three quarters of a year old. That the Range of Hills in the great Forest
extends from the River Twrch in Carmarthenshire to the River Tawe in Glamorganshire ;
that he remembers this Range of Hills 60 years at least, that he has been a shepherd
belonging to these Hills for the whole of that time ; that all the Tenants and Inhabitants
of the great fforest having horses, cattle, and sheep, used to turn up every year to these
hills oxen, steers, heifers, yearlings, Cattle, Horses, colts, and sheep ; that they used to
pay Id. for every horse which was shoed, Id. for every Cow, Id. for every Ox, \d. for every
Steer, ^d. for every heifer, \d. for every yearling, and Id. the score for sheep. That the
Inhabitants of the Parish of Llywell, not within the Great Forest, used to turn up their
Horses, Cattle, and sheep also, and paid 2d. for every horse which was shoed, 2d. for every
Ox, Id. for every Steer, Id. for every Heifer, \d. for every yearling, 4<f. for every score of
sheep. That the Tenants and Inhabitants of all those other parts of the several parishes
within the Lordship were accustomed to turn up every year their Cattle, horses, and sheep,
and they paid as follows : — 4d. for every head of Cattle and horses, and 8d. a score for
sheep, of which latter they turned up very few, as they had commons nearer home where
they could turn them. That witness was a forester for 7 years, and during the whole of
that time the inhabitants of the different parts before mentioned were accustomed to turn
up and make the payments before mentioned, that he rented the whole range of Hills for
the sd. 7 years of Mr. Phillip Morgan, who was agent to Mr. Morgan of Tredegar, the
Lessee under the Crown, at the Rent of £21. That witness in consequence used to collect
the different payments from the several persons who turned up, that those Cattle which
were sent up from Carmarthenshire were always impounded, as were those of the In-
habitants of the little fforest in Devynnock, as having no right whatever to turn. That
witness has always understood that the Inhabitants of the great Forest, and also of the
Lordship of Brecknock, had a right to turn to those hills in the Great fforest. making the
several payments before mentioned, that he has heard his father, who was upwards of
80 years of age when he died, and several old people say that those parts of the several
parishes of Devynnock, Llywell, Ystradgynlais, and Ystrafellte, over which the Great
fforest does not extend, made double the payments that those parts in which the great
forest lies, and the other parts of the Lordship made quadrupartite payments as before
stated.
KICHAKD JONES, aged 79 years and upwards.
That about 53 years ago he married and came to live at Devynnock, that he held
Houses in the village with some fields, and turned horses, cattle, and sheep to the hill every
year, and paid Id. a score to the fforester for the sheep and Id. a head for a horse, Id. a
head for an Ox, and %d. a head for Steers and Heifers, and \d. a head for young cattle.
JOHN JONES, aged 63 and upwards,
Was born^in Devynnock, and lived with his Father, who held Nantybeidy Ffarm in
that parish. That his ffather, who held this ffarm several years, used to turn up his
Horses, Cattle, and Sheep to the Hills, and used to pay Id. for a Horse shod, Id. for an
Ox, Id for a Cow, %d. for a Steer, %d, for an Heifer, and the whole neighbourhood used to
turn up and make the same payments to the Forester. That the Inhabitants of the Little
fforest had no right to turn, that the Cattle which came from Glamorganshire and Car-
marthenshire were always taken up, having no right, but those which came from the Lord-
ship were never taken up, as they had a right to turn, but they used to pay Double.
None of the foregoing Evidence applies in particular to David Jones, but there is no
doubt that clear and decisive Evidence can be had of the immemorial usage by him and his
predecessors of turning Horses, Cattle, and Sheep to the Hills, and paying the sums
usually paid by the Tenants in the District of the Great Forest. Evidence in abundance
(193)
can also be procured of the constant usage by the Tenants in general of that district, and
also of the Lordship of Brecknock in general, excepting the Tenants of the Little Forest
and a few parcels of the Parts of the parishes over which the Lordship extends ; but what
these parcels are, we much doubt cannot be ascertained with any accuracy.
It will be found by Mr. Illingworth's statement of his researches, that in a Minister's
Account of the King's property in Brecknockshire in the 30th year of Henry the 8th, the
Grant of Richard the 3rd and the confirmation of Henry the 8th are set forth, and the
same corresponds with the nnauthenticated copies which are in the Country. It is
observable that the Grant is made to the Tenants of the Great Forest, and also to the In-
habitants of the Lordship of Brecknock having any beasts or Cattle haunting the said forest
for water and pasture ; what was meant by the word " haunting" it would be difficult to
define at the present day, but it should seem from the Tenants of the Lordship constantly
turning up their Cattle, etc., to the Hills that it was understood to apply to them in
general. As to the Little Forest, we conclude the circumstance of its being open and waste
land (which its name denotes), and probably solely in pasture iu former ages, may account
for the Tenants and inhabitants thereof not exercising the right of turning their Cattle, etc.,
to the Hills in the Great Forest, which the Grant of Richard gave them ; and as to those
other parcels or Farms which do not exercise the right, we can only conclude that thev
have lost it by non-usage.
The foregoing, with Mr. Illingworth's researches, contains as complete a History, or
rather Statement, of the rights claimed and used by the Tenants and Inhabitants of the
Lordship of Brecknock of depasturing their Horses, Cattle, and Sheep on the range of
Hills within that Lordship, now generally known by the name of the Great Forest, as the
shortness of time allowed for obtaining Information and the circumstances of the Case will
admit : And it is hoped that the same "ill be sufficient to enable Counsel to decide upon
the pleas — which it will be proper for the Defendants to put in to the informations filed by
the Crown — indeed, unless the Grant of Richard, or the confirmation, or rather Inspeximus
of Henry VIII can be found, we have no hopes of procuring any written Documents which
can be evidence, further than those stated by Mr. Illingworth, excepting the presentments
of the Manor of Brecknock during the time the same continued in the Crown, viz., from
the Attainder of Edward, Duke of Buckingham, in 1521 to 1617, when the manor was
granted for ninety-nine years to Trustees for the use of the Prince of Wales, afterwards
Charles I, or perhaps to the seventh year of the Reign of Charles I, when the fee was
granted to Sir Wm. Russell.
Such Presentments, if any, are it is supposed in the possession of Sir Charles Morgan,
and it is expected that some of them may set forth the Custom used by the Tenants of the
Lordship of turning to the Great Forest ; should that prove to be the Case, it is presumed
that such Presentment being made, while the manor v.-as in the hands of the Crown, will be
admitted as Evidence in the favour of the defendants.
In one of the Documents mentioned by Mr. Jllingworth it is stated that the Kyvrye,
or customary payment for turning to the forest, was threepence until the grant of
Richard III, and it is remarkable that the account given by the old People in the countrj
is that in former ages the Kyrvyve, or customary payment, was Zd.
You \yill be pleased to advise what plea it will be proper under all the circumstances
applicable to Defendant Lloyd for him to put in to the information filed against him by
the Crown ; and the Evidence which it will be proper to adduce in support of that plea.
You will also be pleased to advise what, Plea it will be proper for the Defendant
Jones, under all the circumstances applicable to him, to put in to the information filed
against him by the Crown, and the evidence which it will be proper to adduce in support
of that plea.
(194)
1813.— IN THE EXCHEQUER.
ATTORNEY-GENERAL against LLOYD, aud SAME against JONES, by Information.
The Issues not having been joined in their suit, but as they will be tried at the
ensuing Hereford Assizes, and as the papers will be very voluminous, Mr. Jones takes the
liberty of leaving this case for the perusal of Mr. Pettitt, because it will give him some
insight into the question. He also leaves Cop's of the Proceed'gs at present upon the file.
Mr. JOIJPS will, if convenient, call upon Mr. P. at nine o'clock to-morrow morning, as
Mr. J. is obliged to leave Worcester at 11 to morrow.
Mr. Taunton is with Mr. Pettitt in these causes.
Case for the Opinion of Mr. Holroyd.
A Consultation is requested with Mr. Taunton on Friday, at 8 o'clock.. — 5 Guas. and
2 Guas.
J. Gregory, for Jones and Son, Llandovery.
The Report of the celebrated antiquarian, Mr. Illingivorth, on the whole history of the
Great Forest was also obtained, aud that we have given in full in Chapter I.
The usual steps and stages prior to the Cause coming on for trial had been taken, and
the case was on the very eve of trial at the Hereford Spring Assizes in 1814, when the
defendants were approached by the Crown with the view of arranging a settlement.
Mr. Thomas Bold, Sir Charles Morgan's solicitor, was instructed by Mr. Gilbert Jones,
the Crown solicitor, to act as mediator, and to make known the proposed terms of settle-
ment. The defendant's counsel, Messrs. Holroyd and Taunton, considered the terms fair,
aud recommended their acceptance. The history of the case, and of the negotiations which
led up to the withdrawal of the suit aud to a settlement, is clearly set forth in the Bill of
the solicitors for the defence, which we here give : —
THE CROWN V. WATKIN LLOYD AND ANOTHER, COMMONERS. 1813.
SOLICITORS' BILL, £501 15.s. Id
The Crown asserted that the Commoners had no legal commonable rights, but if any
rights at all, only the ordinary levant and couchant rights. And on the Crown agreeing
to allow the levant and couchant rights, the Commoners abandoned their larger claim to
having unlimited commonage.
And the Plea was withdrawn by the Crown.
The subjoined Bill of the Solicitors, Messrs. Powell and Jones, of Brecon, gives a full
history of the case.
1813.
June. The Crown having commenced actions against Mr. Watkin Lloyd, of Nantgwarred
in Llywell, and Mr. Dav'd Jones, of Tymawr in Defynnock, for the purpose of
litigating the Rights of Common upon the said Forest claimed by them and the
other proprietors and occupiers of Lands in the Lordship of Brecknock, and
Mr. Lloyd having employed Messrs. Edwd. Jones aud Son, of Llandovery, to
appear to the action brought against him, and Mr. Dd. Jones having given
similar directions to Messrs. Powell aud Jones, of Brecon, as to his action.
(195)
5th. Mr. Lloyd and Mr. Jones' Sol'rs attendance at a meeting held at £ *. d.
Defyunock this day for the purpose of taking into consideration
the propriety of defending such Actions, when long Resolutions
were prepared and entered into, by which E. Jones and Son and
Powell and Jones were directed to take the joint conduct of this
Business . . . . . .440
Attendance upon the respective Hefts' conferring and advising as to
their different Rights of Common, taking down their statements,
etc. . . . . . .220
IN THE KING'S BENCH.
THE KING on the Prosecution of the ATTORNEY-GENERAL, v. DAVID
LLOYD, Gent., By Information, For Intrusion on the Great Forest of
Brecon, in the County of Brecon.
Easter Term, 1813.
Inst'tions and Warr't to Defend, Duty, and filing . 0 12 0
Paid for office Copy Information, fo: 9 . .099
Close Copy thereof . . . . .030
Postage of Letter with same into the Country . 0 1 10
Paid entering appearance . . . .068
Term Fee, etc. . . . . . .110
THE KINO on the Prosecution of the ATT'Y.-GEN'L., v. DAVIII JONES.
Easter Term, 1813.
The like Charges of this Term herein . . . .2143
17, 18, 19, 24, 25. Clerk's Journey round Penderrin, Ystradvelltcy, Ys-
tradgunlais, Llywell, etc., with the Resolutions obtaining the
Signatures of those persons who did not attend the Meeting.
Out these days . , . . .55
Paid his Horse hire and Expenses . . . .33
23. It being understood that the Rev. Mr. Payne, of Lanbeder, had several
old Papers in his custody relating to the Forest which he had
received from the late Mr. Henry Williams, of Crickhowell, who
been employed in former action as to the Forest.
Clerk's Journey to Lanbeder, when he perused several Papers
respecting the Business, and brought some of them with him . 1 1 o
Paid his Horsehire and Expenses . . . .0159
June 21. Attendance this day upon Mr. Phil. Morgan, perusing the Old Papers
in his possession, examining him and taking down the whole of his
statement. Making a fair copy thereof . . .220
Attendance upon Mr. Thos. Hold, requesting a copy of an old document
in his possession . . . . .068
Paid his Charge . . . . .01411
Paid him also for a List of the Parishes, etc., in the Lordship of Brecon 100
26. W. P. and E. J.'s Junr's attendance at Defynnock this day, where they
examined a great Number of Witnesses and took down their
respective statements . . . . .440
Paid their Expenses there, and for given to Witnesses . .130
Carried over . . £31 10 0
(IDG;
Brought over . . .31100
June. Paid Messenger for going- to Penpont for some old papers, and from
thence to Mr. Phil. Morgan's, to request him to come to Brecon . 050
Attending taking Inst'tions for the Articles prepared in pursuance of
the Resolutions entered into at the Meeting of the 15th June . 0134
Drawing Draft Articles, fol. 30. Fair Copy and Ingross of same . 300
Paid for Stamps, Parchment, etc. . . 2 18 6
Clerk's attendance upon a great Number of Subscribers obtaining their
Execution of the Articles. Paid his Horsehire and expenses . 330
Writing letter to Agent to desire him to retain Mr. Taunton and Mr.
Petit on behalf of the DePts . . . .050
Ret'r Fee to Mr. Tauntou and CTk for Lloyd . .136
Attend'g him . . . . .068
Fee to Mr. Petit and Clerk for same Deft. . 136
Attending him . . . . .068
The like Charges for Ret'rs as to Deft Jones . . .304
As the Sol'rs for the Crown were pressing for the Defts Pleas in the
Actions brought in Order that the Causes might be tried at the
then ensuing Hereford Assizes, and the time allowed for putting
the ple:is in was extremely short, and as it was understood that
the right claimed to turn to the great Forest depended on a grant
of King Rich'd the 3rd and an Inspeximus of King Henry 8th, it
was deemed advisable that one of the Sol'rs should go to London
to search for those Documents, and any others that could throw
light upon the Bus's, and lay the result before Counsel. E. J.
Jun'rs Journey to London for that p'pose ; his attendance there
and Journey home, out from the 27th of June to the 19th of July,
1813, both inclusive. Paid his Coach hire up and down and
expenses in London, including Coach hire, etc., etc., at £4 4s.
p. Day . 96 12 0
It being necessary to engage Mr. Illingworth, one of the Record Officers
at the Tower of London, to assist in the search and to make
translations and transcripts of the several old Documents which
related to the Bus's Paid his Charges for the same and for his
Report, as per Bill ivnd Rec't . . . . 169 3 4
The result of the search being that there never was a Grant from the
Crown of the Eights claimed to turn upon the Forest, but that
there had been an Ind're. under the Privy Seal only of King
Eichard the 3rd, wherein the usages of Common Rights on the
Forest by the Inhabit'sof the Lordship of Brecknock was recognized,
and that the Inspeximus of King Henry the 8th referred only to
such Ind're., It was deemed necessary to lay a case setting forth
those Documents and others found by Mr. Illingworth and Mr.
Edwd. Jones, Junr., together with a Statement of the several
circumstances and evidence collected in the Country before Mr.
Holroyd and Mr. Tauntou for their joint opinion, as well as to
advise upon the proper pleas to be put in — Inst'ions for Case . 0 13 4
Drawing Draft Case and making 2 fair Copies thereof. 22 Brief Sheets 1413 4
Fee to Mr. Holroyd and Clerk . 5 1 2 G
Carried over £334 10 0
(197)
£ s. d.
Brought over . 334 10 0
June. Attending him by Agent . . . .068
Fee to Mr. Taunton with Case . . .330
Paid his clerk . . . . . .050
Attending him hy Agent . . . . .068
Attending fixing Consult' on (by Agent) . . .068
Fee to Mr. Holroyd on consultation with Mr. Taunton . .220
His clerk . .076
The like to Mr. Taunton . .220
Attending Consultation . . . . .0134
It being the joint and decided opinion of Mr. Holroyd and Mr. Taunton
that all the Documents discovered were no evidence of any Grant
from the Crown of the Rights claimed, and that the Defence in both
actions sho'd only rest upon the user, and as such user could not in
Law exceed Rights of Common Levancy and Couchancy, Instruc-
tions for plea accordingly as to the Action ag't Jones . .068
Drawing Draft plea, fo. 25 . . . . .150
Drawing Draft Statement of facts and making a fair copy thereof
(6 Brief Sheets) to lay before Mr. Chitty, the special Pleader,
together with the Draft of the plea for his Settlement . .300
Fee to Mr. Chitty . . . . 1 11 6
Attending several Conferences with him at different times (Agent's
Charge) ... . 0 13 4
Paid him Conference Ffees . . . . .110
As Mr. Chitty wished to have a Consultation with Mr. Holroyd before
he settled the Pleas,
Attending on Mr. Holroyd and Mr. Chitty, fixing time for the Consulta-
tion on the plea (by agent) . . .068
Fee to Mr. Holroyd on Consultation . . .220
His Clerk . . . . .076
Fee to Mr. Chitty on Consultation . . . .220
Agents' attendance upon Consultation . . .0134
Fee to Mr. Chitty revising pleas as agreed upon at the Consultation . 0106
Fee to Mr. Holroyd to peruse and finally approve of and sign plea
His Clerk . . . . .026
Attending him . . . . .068
Fair Copy plea for Clerk in Court 084
Close Copy sent ... .084
Porterage, Booking and Carriage of Parcel with Papers ' into the
Country ... .048
Booking and Carriage of Parcel back to London . .048
Paid Clerk in Court Ingross of Plea and Remembrancer's ffee . 0146
Paid him for Parchment and Duty . .024
Carried over . . • 361 15
VOL. II.
D D
(198)
£ a. d.
Brought over . . . 361 15 4
June. Paid filing plea . . .034
Paid Inrolling it . . . . 1 IS 4
Charge as to the plea in the action against Lloyd . 6192
Paid for Office Copy, Replication and new assignment Duty, etc., fo. 12,
as to the action ag'st Jones
Close Copy sent . . .040
Postage of Letter from Agent with same . . 0 1 10
July. Letters to Def'ts requesting them to meet E. J. Junr. and J. J. at
Trecastle upon the Business • 070
Paid Messenger for carrying same . .020
31st. E. J.'s Junr. and J. J.'s attendance at Trecastle this day . .440
Paid Expenses ... .196
Inst'ions for Rejoinder in the Action against Jones . 068
Draw'g Draft Rejoinder, fo. 35 . . 1 15 0
It being deemed advisable to have a Consultation with Counsel previous
to putting in a Rejoinder to the Replication and new assignment on
on the part of the Crown, and Mr. Holroyd having gone on the
Northern Circuit and Mr. Taunton having gone on the Oxford
Circuit and then at Worcester — J. Jones' Journey to him there for
that purpose — out 5 days . . 10 10 0
Paid his Coach hire and expenses . . . .7100
Fee to Mr. Taunton with Rejoinder, £2 2s., his Cl'k 2s. Qd . .246
Mr. Taunton wishing to have a Consultation with Mr. Petit, who was
at Worcester attending both to fix consulation
Fee to Mr. Taunton . . . .220
The like to Mr. Petit . . . .110
Mr. Taunton's Cl'k . . . . .076
Postage of letter to agent in London from Mr. J. J. at Worcester, with
Draft Rejoinder in the action against Jones as settled by Mr.
Taunton . . 0 11 3
Copy thereof for Clerk in Court . . .0118
Close Copy for the Country . . . 0 11 8
Paid Booking, Porterage and Carriage of Parcel into the country . 048
Paid Clerk in Court Ingrossing . . . .0176
Paid for Parchment and Duty . . . .024
Paid him filing Rejoinder . . . . .034
Paid Inrolling at . . . . . .268
Term ifee, etc. . . . . . .110
Inst'ions for Rejoinder in the Action against Lloyd . .068
Drawing Draft rejoinder . . . . .110
Agent's Attendance upon Mr. Chitty with same, together with the
Copy of the Rejoinder as settled by Mr. Taunton in the Action
against Jones . . . . .068
Carried over . . . 411 13 7
(199)
£ s. d.
Brought over . . 411 13 7
July. Fee to Mr. Cbitty . . - 0 15 0
Mr. Taunton's ffee for signing same . 0 10 6
Copy of Rejoinder for Clerk in Court . 070
Close Copy thereof for the Country . 070
Booking Porterage and Carriage of Parcel 048
Paid Clerk in Court Ingrossing rejoinder . 0106
Paid him for parchment and Duty . . 025
Paid him for filing rejoinder ... 034
Paid Inrolling . . . . 1134
Term ffee, etc. ... 110
It being expected that the Solicitors for the Crown would give Notices
to try the two causes at the ensuing Assizes at Hereford, Inst'ons.
for Case for Mr. Taunton to advise as to the evidence . .068
Drawing Draft Case and fair Copy two Brief Sheets . .100
Carriage of same to town . . . . .050
To Mr. Taunton with Case ... 220
Attending him with and for same . . o 13 4
His Clerk . . . . . .026
Paid Carriage of Case and opinion back from London . .050
Attending examining 14 Witnesses at different Times, and taking down
their respective statements . . . . 4 13 4
Paid Mr. Jeffreys for attending to be examined . . .056
Paid Morgan Morgans for his Attendance . . .026
To other Witnesses for their attendance 220
1814.
Feby. Mr. Thos. Bold having delivered to us an Extract of a Letter to him
from the Solicitors of the Crown, wherein they proposed that if the
Defts. in the Actions would enter a Retraxit of their Pleas of Not
Guilty as to the Intrusions alleged to have been committed by
them with other Cattle than their own, and Confess Nominal
Damages thereon, That the Crown would enter a Retraxit of their
Replications, and admit the prescriptions set up by the Defts., and
would also enter a nolle prosequi as to so much of the New Assign-
ments as was covered by the Defts. Justifications under the Rights
of Common claimed by reason of vicinage
Perusing and considering such Letter . . . .0134
Making 3 Copies thereof . . . . .060
Writing Letter with one Copy to Marquis Camden . .050
The like to Sir Chas. Morgan . . . .050
The like to Mr. Williams of Penpont . . . .050
Carried over .431 0 6
(200)
£ s, d.
Brought over . . . 431 0 6
Feby. Lord Camden, Sir Chas. Morgan, and Mr. Williams, having agreed
with us in opinion that Mr. Holroyd and Mr. Taunton should be
consulted as to the Propriety of acceding or not acceding to the
Proposal on Behalf of the Crown, Inst'ions. for Statement to lay
before those Gentlemen . . . . .0134
Drawing Draft Statement 9 Brief Sheets and making 2 fair copies
thereof . .600
Making 2 Copies of Pleadings to accompany same, 11 Brief Sheets . 313 4
Letter and Booking Parcel with papers to agent . . .052
Paid Porterage and carriage of Parcel . . . .050
HILARY TERM, 1814.
Fee to Mr. Holroyd . 550
His Clerk . . .026
Attending him ... .068
The like to Mr. Taunton, his Clk., and attending . .5142
Attending them fixing Consultation . . .068
Paid Mr. Holroyd Consultation Fee and Clk. . .296
The like to Mr. Tauuton . . . .246
Attending Consultation . . . . .0134
Mr. Bold having again called upon us for a written Answer to the pro-
posal on Behalf of the Crown, and the Counsel not having then
given their Opinion, Attending Mr. Bold, informing him of the
cause of the delay . . . . .068
Mr. Bold having recommended us to write to Mr. Gilbert Jones
(one of the Solrs. for the Crown) upon the Bus's. Writing to him
accordingly, and making a Copy of our Letter to keep . .050
Porterage, Booking, and carriage of Parcel with Papers from Agent . 0410
As to the Action against Lloyd.
Paid Clerk in Court for Copy Notices of Trial . . .010
Copy sent . . . . .010
The like charges as to the action against Jones . . .020
March. Tho' Mr. Holroyd and Mr. Taunton were of Op'n. that the Terms pro-
posed by the Crown ought to be acceded to, Yet we were desirous
of obtaining the opinion of the princl. persons interested before We
gave a decisive answer to the Solicitors for the Crown. Writing
letter to Mr. Gilbert Jones requesting him to countermand the
Notices of Trial which had been given, and Copy to keep . 050
Letter on the Subject to Mr. Ward (Lord Camden's Sol'r.) . .050
Letter and paid Booking Parcel to agent with Tapers . 052
Paid Carriage and Porterage thereof . . . .048
Agent's Attendance upon Mr. Ward', who also recommended the Terms
to be acceded to .068
Carried over . . 461 6 8
(201)
£ s. d.
Brought over . . . 461 6 8
March. His attendance also upon the Solrs. for the Crown, when they positively
refused to countermand the Notices of Trial unless We gave an
undertaking to accept of the Terms . . .068
Paid Postage of Letter to that Effect from Mr. Gilbert Jones . 001]
There being no probability (from the shortness of time) of calling a
Meeting of all the Commoners to ascertain their sentiments upon
the ^Subject, and considering the Opinions of Mr. Holroyd and
Mr. Taunton, as well as the princl. persons interested whom We had
been able to consult, We thought it our duty to give the under-
taking required by the Solrs. for the Crown.
Drawing such Undertaking accordingly . 068
Making two fair Copies . . . .068
Writing to Agent with undertaking . . . .050
His Attendance upon Mr. Gilbert Jones who approved of it, and gave
Countermands of the Notices of Trial . .068
Copies of Notices of Countermand as to Deft. Lloyd . .020
Term Fee, etc. . . . . . .110
The like Charges in the Countermand as to the action against Jones . 130
1814.
May, Mr. E. Jones, Junr., being in London, various atts. by him at different
June times upon Mr. Gilbert Jones, Mr. Ward, and Mr. Leach (Sir C.
Morgan's Solr.), conferring as to the different plans proposed by
the Crown for ascertaining who were entitled to Rights of Com-
mons upon the Forest, when at last Mr. Gilbert Jones stated to
Mr. E. Jones, Junr., as the final determination of the Crown, that
they would apply for an Act of Inclosure . .10100
Drawing out a List of the names of the Subscribers, with a statement
of their respective Land tax Rates, the same being very long and
intricate, and making a fair copy thereof . .550
July It having been determined upon to call a meeting of the persons
interested, Drawing Notice of a meeting at the Bull's Head Inn
in Devynnock on the 17th August next, and making a fair Copy
thereof for Printer . . . . .068
Attending Printer therewith, and requesting him to print 200 Copies
thereof . . . . .034
Paid him for same . . . . .0160
Paid for posting same and distributing them among the subscribers . 0144
Aug. W. P. E. J., Junr., and J. J.'s attendee, at the meeting at Devynnock
17th this day, when long Resolutions were prepared in answer to the
proposals submitted to the Meeting by Mr. Thos. Bold on behalf
of the Crown . . . . .330
Paid expenses . . . . . 0 16 6
Making fair copies of the proposals and Resolutions for Marqs. Camden
and Sir Chas. Morgan, and writing to them with same . .0134
Carried over . . 487 13 5
(202)
£ s. d.
Brought over . . . 487 13 5
Aug. Making another Copy of the Resolutions, and writing to Mr. Gilbert
Jones therewith . . . . .068
Also another Copy for the Printer, and attending him with same . 068
Paid him for printing 100 Copies thereof . . .140
Distributing same . . . . . .0134
Writing a great number of Letters, several attendances in the Country
not before charged. Paid Postage and Carriage of a great Number
of Letters and Parcels. Paid Messengers, also a great deal of
trouble throughout the Business, for which we charge . .10100
Drawing out this Bill and making fair Copies thereof . .110
£501 15 1
It will be seen by the above entries that not only was the lawsuit disposed of and
settled, but that the Crown had resolved to abandon their proposal of sale of the Great
Forest, and to proceed by way of inclosure by an Inclosure Act.
The terms on which such Inclosure Act should be based appear to have been dis-
cussed between the solicitors on both sides, and eventually Mr. Thomas Bold was authorised
by the Crown to lay definite proposals before the Tenants of the Forest for their
acceptance.
The following is the notice convening the meeting : —
" ALL PERSONS interested in this Common are requested to meet at the Bull's Head,
in Devynock, on Wednesday, the 17th day of August next, between the Hours of Twelve
and One, to take into consideration a Proposal made on Behalf of the Crown, for adjusting
the matters in controversy between them.
" Dated the 25th day of July, 1814.
" POWELL and JONES, I „ ,. ., „
<• E.JONES and SON, } Sollcitors-
Accordingly, on the 17th August, 1814, a meeting of the Forest Tenants or com-
moners was convened as above, to consider the altered position and the proposals made by
Mr. Thomas Bold ou behalf of the solicitor of the Crown for carrying out an Inclosure Act.
We have already, on page 39, vol. i, given a copy of the proceedings, but in order to
preserve the sequence of the narrative, we have printed it again, especially as we attach
the greatest importance to paragraphs marked a and b, as declaring the bargain made
after, and to stay litigation and all further proceedings, and which was intended as an
honourable as well as binding compact to be observed by both parties.
" At a meeting of the different persons entitled to rights of common upon the Great
Forest of Brecknock, held at the Bull's Head Inn, in the village of Devynnock, in the
county of Brecon, on Wednesday, the 17th day of August, 1814, Penry Williams, Esq.,
in the chair,
" Mr. Thos. Bold having submitted to this meeting certain proposals made by the
solicitors for the Board of Works, for inclosing the Great Forest.
" Resolved, that this meeting consent to the first proposal.
" Resolved, also, that this meeting cannot consent to the second proposal, because they
think that the Crown must see the propriety of there being a surveyor as well as a
commissioner, on behalf of the commoners.
(203)
" Resolved, also, that this meeting consent to the third proposal upon the following
conditions : —
"That previous to any division of the waste land of the Forest, under the provisions of
the intended Act, a certain portion of the same, equal in value to the sum required, be
taken out and sold — In the first place to defray rhe expenses of obtaining, passing, and
carrying the Act into execution to its termination ; and in the next place, for bearing the
expense of forming, making, and fencing out the roads, bridges, etc.
" Also, that an allotment may be made in lieu of tithes.
" And, that those parts of the common containing limestone quarries shall, at the
discretion of the commissioners, be left open for the use of the future tenants of the Crown
and the commoners as at present enjoyed.
(a) Then that one moiety shall be allotted to His Majesty, freed and discharged from
all rights of common, and other rights or claims whatsoever of the occupiers
or owners of any adjacent messuages, lands and hereditaments.
(6) And, that the residue thereof bo divided amongst the persons having rights of
common or other rights on the Forest, freed and discharged from all forestal or
other dues, duties, or payments whatsoever.
"Resolved, that a committee, consisting of Marquis Camden, Sir Charles Morgan, Bart.,
Penry Williams, Esq., Edward Morgan, Esq., Thomas Harcourt Powell, Esq., Hugh
Bold, Esq., the Eev. Thomas Watkins, clerk, the Rev. Thomas Powell, clerk, William
Vaughan, Esq., David Lloyd, Esq., John Downes, Esq., Phillip Morgan, Esq., Watkin
Lloyd, Esq., David, Esq., and Thomas Powell, Morgan Morgan, and Griffith Rees,
gentlemen, be appointed to arrange with the Crown the terms of the intended Bill ; and
that such committee be requested to attend to the progress of such Bill in Parliament ;
and that any three of them be competent to act.
" Resolved also, that such committee do settle the bill of the solicitors for the business
hitherto done, and order a rate upon the subscribers according to the land-tax assessment
for the payment of the same.
" Resolved that the thanks of this meeting be given to Richard Mansell Phillipps, Esq.,
for his attendance at this meeting, and for a suggestion of a plan which will undoubtedly
contribute to the benefits arising from an inclosure of the Forest, as well as promote the
interest of the public in general.
" Resolved also that the Chairman be requested to sign these resolutions on behalf of
this meeting ; and the solicitors do get the same printed, and send copies thereto to
Marquis Camden, Sir Charles Morgan, Gilbert Jones, Esq., the solicitor for the Board of
Woods, and also distribute them among the persons interested in this forest.
" PENRY WILLIAMS, Chairman.
" The Chairman having left the chair,
" Resolved, lastly, that the thanks of this meeting be given to him for his conduct in
the chair."
G. North, Printer, Brecknock.
The above is a copy of the important printed paper issued by the Committee of
Commoners the year previous to the passing of the Forest Inclosure Act in 1815.
It is a matter of deep regret to me that it did not come into my hands at an earlier period.
It would surely have carried conviction to the minds of the Committee of the House of
Commons of the merits and justice of the case put before them in 1893 by the Allotment
holders in the Bill which they had prepared at great trouble and expense.
(204)
TABLE OF DATES, MAINLY RELATING TO GREAT FOREST OF
BRECKNOCK, 1066 TO 1815.
1086. William Conq. r. 1066 to 1087
Battle of Hastings, Conquest of England,
Norman Feudalism.
1083-6. Bernard Newmarch b. Breck-
nock Castle and Priory, and fd. Great
Forest.
1087. William Rufus r. 1087 to 1100
Revolt and Invasion of Wales.
1100 Henry I r. 1100 to 1135
1122 and 1134. Campaign in Wales and
Revolt.
1135. Stephen r. 1135 to 1154
1154. Henry II r. 1154 to 1189
1189. Richard I r. 1189 to 1199
1199. John r. 1199 to 1216
1215. The Great Charter
1216. Henry III r. 121fi to 1272
1268. Owen ap Gryffyth owned as Prince
of Wales.
1272. Edw. I r. 1272 to 1307
1282. Conquest of Wales.
1307. Edw. II r. 1307 to 1327
1327. Edw. Ill r. 1327 to 1377
1377. Richard II r. 1377 to 1399
1399. Henry IV r. 1399 to 1413
1400. Revolt of Owen Glendower.
1413. Henry V r. 1413 to 1422
1422. Henry VI r. 1422 to 1461
1461. Battle of Mortimer Cross.
1461. Edw, IV r. 1461 to 1483
1482. Harry, Duke of Buck., gave free
pasturage on Buchlvd Forest.
1483. Edward V murdered " ... 77 days.
1483. Richard III r. 1483-5
1483. Reduced the Forest Cyfryve from
3d. to Id. per head of Cattle.
1483. Duke of Buck, insurrection.
1483. Ely Tower plot.
1483. Battle of Bosworth.
1485. Henry VII r. 1485 to 1509
1509. Henry VIII r. 1509 to 1547
1520. Edward, Duke of B.'s, trial, exe-
cution, and forfeiture of estates, in-
cluding Brecon Lordship and Great
Forest.
1536-9. Reformation ; King head of
Church ; abolition of greater and
lesser monasteries .
1536. Valor Eccl. made.
1536. Division of Wales into shires.
1536. Courts of Great Sessions formed.
1539. Confirmation of the grant of Great
Forest privileges made by R. III.
1541. Foundation of Ch. Coll., Brecon.
1547. Edw. VI r. 1547 to 1553
1552. Repairs of Brecknock Castle or-
dered.
Yrs.
21
13
35
19
35
10
17
56
35
20
50
22
14
22
24
1556.
1558.
1603.
1625.
1640.
1650.
1660.
1688.
1689.
1702.
Mary r. 1553 to 1558
Persecution of Protestants.
Eliz. r. 1558 to 1603
1581. Lease of Great Forest to William
Jones.
1582. Suit agst. Madoc, Buchlyd Forest.
Jas. I r. 1603 to 1625 . ...
1617. Grant of Duke of Buck', Brecon
Lordship, to Sir F. Bacon, in trust
for Prince of Wales ...
Charles I r. 1625 to 1640
1631. Sale to Collins and Fenn (Great
Forest excepted) of the reversion in
trust for Sir Wm. Russell.
1633. Sir Win. Russell released Brecon
Lordship to Earl Pembroke.
1639. Earl Pembroke sold to Thomas
Morgan.
Civil War, 1640 to 1650
1649. Charles executed.
Commonwealth, 1650 to 1660
1651. Parliamentary Surveys ordered ;
Great Forest sold to David Morgan.
Charles II r. 1660 to 1685
Restoration. Estates restored to Crown,
and owners. Clergy reinstated.
1662 The term of 99 years in Brecon
Lordship became vested in Thomas
Morgan , Esqre. , sub. to a fee-farm rent.
Jas. II r. 1685 to 1688 (deposed)
Wm. and Mary r. 1689 to 1702
1 694. Lease of agistment of Great Forest
to Wm. Morgan for 31 years.
Anne r. 1702 to 1714
Yrs.
. 5
45
22
15
10
3
It
18
1714. Geo. I r. 1714 to 1727
1724. Lease by Prince of Wales to Wm.
Morgan, of Tredegar, of ag't of Great
Forest for 31 years, at .£20 6s. Sd.
1727. Geo. II r. 1727 to 1760 ... 40
1760. Geo. Ill r. 1760 to 1820
1770. Lease of ag't of Great Forest to
Thomas Morgan.
1784. Hill Causes of Great Forest tried.
1787. Fee-farm of Brecon Lordship sold.
1792. Last prosecution of Noncon.
Ministers in co. Brecon.
1799. Forest mills sold.
1801. Lease of Great Forest to Thos.
Morgan expires.
1813. The trials of 1813 and terms of
settlement between the Crown and
the Forest tenants.
1815. Passing of Inclosure Act for the
Great Forest, based upon these terms.
60
NEWTON WEIR— RIVER USK.
Upper Part of Weir, 5.30 p.m., August Stli, 1904.
NEWTON WEIR RIVER USK.
Lower Part of Weir. 5.30 />.m.. August 8th, 1<,04.
NEWTON WEIR RIVER USK.
Upper Part of Veil; 5.30 a.m., August <Jtli, 1VO-I.
NEWTON WEIR-RIVER USK.
Lower Part of Weir, 5.30 a.m., August 9th, 1904.
The River Usk and the Canal.
SPECIAL NOTE.
IN Vol. I, p. 191, we dealt fully with this important case, then exciting much
public attention, and it is desirable to add a note here on the present position of
the question.
It appears that by an informal agreement, entered into a year or so ago
between the owners of the Canal (the Great Western Railway Company) and a
Committee of persons connected with the river (not the Board of Conservators),
it has been arranged that for the present the Canal feeder sluice shall be closed
for twelve consecutive hours in the twenty-four, and the period fixed for such
closing is from 6 P.M. to 6 A.M.
This arrangement has been the means undoubtedly of increasing the now of
water over the Weir, and down the proper channel of the stream, and has tended
to the material benefit of the whole river and its fisheries. The quantity of
water, however, still taken into the Canal is far more than sufficient for the
legitimate requirements of navigation, and far more than can be spared from
the river in dry seasons without injury to it. In fact, a minimum of water
should be abstracted at such times ; and if the Great Western Railway Company
are resolved to continue taking water in excess of navigation purposes, in order
to turn it into a source of revenue by sale, like an ordinary water company, they
should be compelled forthwith to make storage reservoirs on both the Brecon
Canal and their Newport Canal for maintaining such (at present) unauthorised
supplies, and in dry seasons to rely on such reservoirs for the supply also of
their canals, not taking then any appreciable quantity from the open river.
There is one weak point to be noticed in the present arrangement. The
river and the Canal are not really placed on an equal footing in dry times. The
level of Newton pool falling below the top of the Weir by the draft of water
into the Canal in the daytime, has to be raised again to the level of the Weir, so
as to overflow, before the river derives any advantage. As Newton Weir pool
forms a " pound" nearly three-quarters of a mile long by fifty yards wide, several
hours of the early night are consumed in this process of refilling the Pool or
" Pound," the number of hours counting according to the number of inches the
pool has been " drawn " down below the lip of the Weir in the daytime. The
new " save water" fish-pass counts for nothing, being so small ; and the only mode
to carry out this intermittent arrangement fairly and equally between river and
Canal is for a sluice to be fixed in the Weir, near the grating, of equal dimen-
sions, and at a similar level to the Canal sluice, and which should be opened and
closed correspondingly (in reverse order) with the Canal sluice.
The annexed photographs have been taken to show the working of the
intermittent system on the 8th and 9th August, 1904. It will be seen that at
5.30 A.M. on the 9th there was a considerable flow of water over the lower end
of the Weir, whereas on the previous evening that part of the Weir was dry. It
was a period of fine weather, and there had been no rain in the night, and the
increased flow of water was entirely the result of closing the Canal sluice during
the night. In this connection, the preceding paragraph as to the " pounding" of
the water in the first hours of the night must be fully considered.
J. LL.
Lloyd, (Sir) John Edward
Historical memoranda of
Breconshire
PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE
CARDS OR SLIPS FROM THIS POCKET
UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO LIBRARY
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