Will, inventory and court paper of James Matthewe, yeoman of Hoddington, Upton Grey, 1604

Matthewe was succeeded in the tenancy of the farm of Hoddington by his son Bryan, his estate being valued at £290, which included £40 for the lease of Hoddington farm. Matthewe distributed his lands, money and possessions in December 1604 before his death in return for support from his heir for the remainder of his life and for his younger children until the sons reached 21 and the girls 18 or marriage. He did not long survive this agreement as probate was granted on 9 January 1604-5. The consistory court recognised the distribution as his last will and testament for the purpose of probate.