Will and Inventory of William Yate, 1620

Yate’s will and inventory were a little damaged. This gentleman made a full religious dedication, with burial at the discretion of his widow. There are no children mentioned and it would appear that both he and his wife were elderly – many of the bequests were to be paid within 90 days of the death of the last survivor of the pair. He made bequests up to £200 from the amount owed him by Nicholas Braxton, to whom, with his widow, probate is granted. Half the debt was willed to Braxton’s son and the rest to the children of William’s brothers, and a few smaller legacies. The property described in the inventory is a farmhouse and outbuildings, with silver and books in the hall, and beds and bedding in the other rooms. The kitchen was well equipped and had the only fire. He had 13 acres under crop and £30 of grain in store, six cattle, two horses, 13 pigs. Of the total value £166 9s.4d, £77 was in money owed and £13 money in the house. His two overseers were rewarded with 20s. each. Ambrose Webb, vicar, drew up the will.