Nuncupative Will of Walter Belamy, 1607

If a person was unable to make a written will, they could declare their intentions before 'credible witnesses.'The witnesses would then swear before the probate court and it would be accepted as a nuncupative will. Such wills are usually very short and follow the forrm of this one:

'Memorand[um] that Walter Belamye of Eastnor deceased about the 20th November in the year of our lord God according to the computation of the Church of England 1607 made his last will and testament by word of mouth in manner and form following: First he bequeathed his soul unto Almighty God and his body to be buried in Christian burial. Item he gave and bequeathed all his goods and chattels whatsoever moveable and unmoveable unto Margaret Belamye his wife'.

Walter Belarmy [sic] 'householder' was buried on 21 November 1607.