Dorchester & Fordington Glossary

Index of Terms used in 17th & 18th Century Wills, Inventories and other Documents
With notes & links on names, places, inns, taverns etc often referred to.

©Michael Russell OPC for Dorchester and Fordington Jan 2009 - Last updated Apr 2024

(747 entires)

Spelling: Until the mid eighteenth century, spelling was not considered a matter of great importance. In manuscripts, words are often spelt in various ways, even in the same document. It was not until the appearance of the dictionary by Nathan Bailey in 1730 and Samuel Johnson in 1755 that there was any attempt at standardisation. There was also some regular conventions in use such as:-

♦“y” is often used instead of “i” as in Wynsor/Winsor - Bryne/Brine - Collyns/Collins - yssue/issue - dyed/died

♦“z” is often used instead of “s” as in Cozens/Cosens - Zeager/Seager - Tomazine/Tomasine

♦“e” is often added to the end of names and some letters repeated as in Bisshoppe for Bishop or Bartlette for Bartlet or Ffordington for Fordington

♦“h” may have been omitted as in Tomas/Thomas or cristened/christened and particularly “is” for “his” in later years ·

With such wide variation in spelling the context in which the word is used is always important in carrying out transcription.

Phonetic dialect: Many words were written as they sounded and were therefore heavily influenced by local dialect and the individuals level of education and therefore varied widely. It needs to be remembered that most people could not read and many of these documents were in any case completed by clergy who moved regularly around the country and may not be familiar with the dialect. A sudden change in spelling of a family name for example is often associated with a change in Rector or churchwarden. The list below is exclusively compiled from Dorchester & Fordington Wills, Inventories and other documents associated with the Parish and were therefore in common use at the time.

Transcription : is very difficult as you are often dealing with faded, out of focus or damaged documents written in Court or Secretary hand where the formation of letters was significantly different from that used today. Examples of Secretary hand - but there are probably many others available on the web. An added complication is that probate is usually written in Latin. If you get through all that you often end up with a word that you have never heard of which then takes research. In the course of doing many old documents from Dorchester I have built up a glossary which I have placed on line mainly for my own benefit but I hope that it may also help those trying to decipher old documents originating in Dorset. Some words have also been added to the glossary because they simply did not mean the same thing in 17th century.

Abbreviation: Was used extensively in Wills and Inventories often indicated by a line above the omitted letters which I can't reproduce for the web. So in text you will see pfect for 'perfect' or pformed for 'performed'. 'pish' was another well used abbreviation for 'parish'. A common abbreviation in the Quarter Session Records was s.d trer for 'said treasurer' as in:- 'It is ordered that the s.d trer for the Western pte [parte i.e. part ] of this County doe pay' etc.

Supertext is also used as in wth for 'with' but it can also mean 'which' depending on context. Some scibes also abbreviated Christian names extensively; Wm is still used today for 'William' and most are self explanitary like Eliz; Rich; Robt etc. Less common were 'Gorg' for George and 'Jams' for James. I have generally tried to spell them out in full in brackets not because I don't think the person will understand most abbreviations but to increase the hit rate when searching documents. There were many recognised abbreviations such as those given in these links:- Pages from an 18th century book showing commonly used Contractions of that period And an abbreviation listing for 17th century records available on the web.

Currency: bequests of 3s.4d; 6s.8d; and 13s.4d These payments are very common in wills as they relate to the 'mark' worth 13s.4d and the 'noble' a gold coin valued at 6s.8d. hence half a mark = 3s.4d.

Pictures: I have started adding links to pictures to better explain some items given in inventories on this site. Please bear in mind that most of these have survived because they came from the houses of landed gentry or well off merchants. Every day items in tenements and farm houses would be of a much more basic type, functional rather than elaborately carved. To have left a will with an inventory however meant some standing in the community. In Dorchester many of these were indeed wealthy merchants who ran businesses importing produce and furniture from Germany, Holland etc but mainly France where some Dorchester Merchants owned property in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Unusual words: Once you have managed to navigate all the above you often end up with a correct transcription but a word no longer in use today. I have listed in this Glossary unusual words or abbreviations etc that I have encountered in Dorchester and Fordington documents. Other listings exist on the web but several I have listed in the past have disappeared. One current example is Terms Used in Inventories for West Northamptonshire

Michael Russell OPC for Dorchester and Fordington



7ber, 7bris, VIIber September [i.e. abbreviation for the 7th month because the year started in March): Latin=Septembris [Note:- An example of this can be found in the parish registers of Symondsbury - the marriage of Walter Newburgh to Mrs Katherine Strode when the date is given as 'the eight and twentieth of 7tember -- meaning 28th September 1624. Also Parish Registers of Stinsford, adjacent parish to Dorchester, - in the year 1705 (ancestry.com image 13 of 133) marriages of Thomas Townson to Joan Gould gives the standard May 10: but the next marriage for Francis FILDEW to Joan Gould of Dorchester Marry'd 7ber 13 : hence September 13th 1705 and the one after that is between Robert White and Susanna Parsons of Dorchester Marry'd 8ber 1. ]
8ber, 8bris, VIIIber October [i.e. abbreviation for the 8th month because the year started in March) [An example is the marriage of John GAWLER of Dorchester All Saints & Marie BARNS of Fordington ye banns being duly published were married 8br 6th 1707]
9ber, 9bris, IXber November [i.e. abbreviation for the 9th month because the year started in March)
10ber, 10bris, VIXber December [i.e. abbreviation for the 10th month because the year started in March)
Abbey Milton Now known as Milton Abbas
accompt account (used a lot in Letters of Administration and Wills)
acre (akers) acres of land. Old Land Apportionment and Tithe maps etc often refer to measures of land simply by the letters 'a' (meaning acre) 'r' (rood) A rood was a quareter of an acre and 'p' (square perch). A square perch was equal to 160th of an acre
Ad placitum domini
{abbrev ad placitu'}
Latin for "at the Lords pleasure" [Example Folio 21 of the Survey of Fordington Manor in 1650 see 3rd entry for Robt Bartlett. Many other entries in this survey seem to have it abbreviated to 'ad Pactiu' ]
Adtrix or (Admintrix) (abbreviation for latin Administratrix) female administrator of an estate
advowson In ecclesiastical law the right to recommend a member of the Anglican clergy for a vacant benefice, or to make such an appointment. The 'advowson' was often purchased from the church by wealthy landowners to ensure that they had control over the appointment of clergy to the church in their Manor
aet. or aetas or aetatis (aetis) or aetat aet. is an abbreviation for the latin word aetas - aetis meaning age or life time. 'aet. 13' for example when used in Visitation records indicates that the person was aged 13 years at the date of the visitation . This enables you to roughly calculate year of birth. Examples from the Visitation of Dorset 1623 : Page 47 GOULD Family : "John Gould of Dorchester gent aetat. 65 sup'stes 1623" meaning 'John Gould age 65 surviving (in) 1623' - Also on the same page GOOD family immediately above :- "John Good sone and hey.aet 5 annor.1623' meaning "John Good son and heir age 5 years (in) 1623"
Aff. or (Affid. Affidavit) A written statement made on oath or by affirmation. On burial registers it confirmed that the individual had been buried in a woollen shroud in accordance with the law. Acts in 1666 and 1678 encouraged the wool trade by laying down that bodies were not to be buried wrapped in anything but wool, and a relative had to make an affidavit before a justice, or failing him, a clergyman, within eight days of the funeral stating that the law had been complied with. In some parishes at the conclusion of the burial service the clergyman asked 'Who makes the affidavit?. The making of a satisfactory reply was indicated in the register by the word Affidavit, or an abbreviation such as Affid..
agricolia agricolia - Latin for farmer
ale Ale made from malted barley was the staple drink as water was not gereally fit to drink and milk was too valuable for drinking being saved for butter and cheese production. The mash was used three times to give three different strengths. The first and strongest mash was for men, the second for women and the weakest for children.
aletaster The person responsible for calling from time to time to ensure that ale and beer were being sold by the correct measures and at a price and quality laid down.
alias or aleas, als (abbreviated)
or alias dictus
alias is latin for: 'otherwise named or called'. When a person changed his/her surname, or was known by more than one name, he might sometimes be described as "Smith alias Jones". The term has no disreputable connotation. In a few cases both names joined by 'alias' were retained for several generations and so became the equivalent of our hyphen in a modern double barrelled name. Once hereditary surnames became established, a change of name might be caused by the inheritance of a property from a maternal relative, by a young person being adopted, by becoming known by a stepfather's surname, or by a number of other causes. In legal papers a married woman often had her maiden name added as an alias to show her connection with the matter in hand. It was much more common in Dorchester & Fordington in the 16th and 17th centuries than it is now. Example 1627: Anna Christopher alias CHARLES
'als' [or Ales and sometimes 'ats'] alias (See above) - Usually in parish registers e.g. '18 Aug 1678 - John the son of John MORY Ales [alias] WILES' as in St Peters register
Allhallows (or Alhalens or Allhallon or Allhallons) An older name for All Saints Church in High East Street Dorchester. In 'Speeds' map of Dorchester dated 1611 it is referred to as 'Alhalens'. Examples:- John Williams (1473-1549) of Herringston in his Will dated 29 May 1548 gives 6s 8d to the reparation of the parish church of Alhalones in Dorchester. Jasper COLSON in his will dated 5th June 1667 refers to his 'house and garden being in Allhallowes parish'. See also Corporate Development document on this site " Allhallon Church Lane. Although this lane, running from East Street, at the west end of All Saints' Church, to Durnelane, is frequently indicated in the documents enrolled in Domesday, it first occurs by this name in a grant made 15th May, 32 Henry VIII. [1540], by John Clerke to John Corbyn, baker, of Belamys bakehouse, situate on the east side of the venella ibidem communiter vocata Alhalon Churche lane, having the King's burgage (late the Abbot of Byndon's) on the north, and the burgage of John Pynge, formerly Margaret Boith's, on the south (600)"
amry or (amery, ambry, ambree, ambary, ambreye, aumbrey) early type of large cupboard with doors originally for food but in 17th century Fordington seems to be used for books, linen, clothes etc Picture Link
Anabaptist Member of a Protestant movement characterized by adult baptism. Anabaptists held that infants were not punishable for sin because they had no awareness of good and evil and thus could not yet exercise free will, repent, and accept baptism. Denying the validity of infant baptism, they accepted adult baptism, which was regarded as a second baptism by those outside the group who identified them as Anabaptists . This is a particular problem in trying to trace ancestors in Dorchester as there is no infant baptism and records of adult baptisms often do not survive. The most famous family of anabaptits in Dorchester is the BROOKS family whose daughter Mrs Mary CHANNING(1687-1705/6) was executed for the murder of her husband in 1704
"Anchor Tavern" (or Anchore Hotel or Anchor Inn)

[Note:- By 1865 in Harrods Directory James Russell of North Square Dorchester is the Innkeeper of the 'Half Moon' ]
1830 - Pigots Directory - 'Anchor' - Publican Ester Creech, North Street, Dorchester

1839 - Roberts Directory - 'Anchor Inn', Proprietor Philip Staples, North Street, Dorchester

1841 Census - Living in North Square Dorchester Richard Tolley age 40 to 44 Publican, with his wife Martha age aged 45 to 49 + 3 children + 2 servants + 1 lodger

1842 - Pigots Directory, Dorchester Dorset, Page 121 under Taverns and Public Houses - 'Anchor' Martha Tolley, North Square

1844 - Pigots Directory - 'Anchor', Martha Telley [Tolley], North Square, Dorchester (Note in 1851 Census St Peters Parish living Friary Lane - Martha Tolley Widow aged 57 years formerly Inn Keeper)

1851 Census living in North Square St Peters Parish James Russell. Head Aged 33, Beer house Keeper with wife Frances

1861 Census living North Square St Peters Parish James Russell, Head Married Aged 41 Licensed Victualler with wife Frances and 1 boarder
Andirons or (Andjorns, Andier, Andire, Andjorns; And Eyrons; Andeyorns; And Eyrnes) 'Andier' is old French - an earlier form of 'Andiron' - a utensil placed one at each side of the hearth and therefore usually found in pairs; for supporting wood when burning in a fireplace, an ornamental form of fire dog Picture Link
"The Angel" 1737 Burgage Rate for the Parish of All Saints in Dorchester (MRD Page 694) shows that James Shorto was charged 6 pence for his house (The Angel)

annorū (annorum) Latin: Abbreviation for 'annorum' meaning 'years' Often used in Visitations eg 'Maria aet. 16 annorū 1623' = "Maria aged 16 years in 1623"
Anno Domini (A.D.- Ano Dom - Ao Dm) Latin for - 'In the year of Our Lord'. Often abbreviated in parish records and differed between priests - som eexamples taken from Dorchester & Fordington registers- (A.D.) or (An.Dm.) or (Ano Dom) or (Ao :)
Anno Pradicto Latin for 'In the foretold year' This was often used for 1st Jan to 24th March as the year did not end until the 24th March. See Calendar below
Annution Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary or 25th March
Ansty Ansty is a village in Dorsetr north of Cheselbourne and west of Milton Abbnas. Many marriages took place in the Parish of Hilton
"Antelope Hotel" & Posting House

The Antelope Hotel was situated at No.14 Cornhill, St Peters Parish in Dorchester Dorset [See post card right 'The Antelope Hotel' on the left closed in the 1990's and is now offices and the entrance to a shopping arcade (Negative Valentines H4370) ]

1613 - 6th Aug - Extract 'Fire from Heaven' by David Underdown page 2 - " For the hot and weary traveller the most alluring attractions [in Dorchester] would have been its Inns and Taverns- The 'George' on High West Street, next to St Peters church, 'The Antelope' round the corner in South street, a dozen others -with their promise of rest and cool refreshment."

1613 - Extract 'Fire from Heaven' by David Underdown page 5 - "John WATTS (d.1627), a hitherto prosperous merchant and member of the Corporation, was 'much improverished' by the fire', and his house behind South Street, adjoining The Antelope yard or backside was in ruins for two years before he eventually sold it to a lawyer mnamed Humphrey JOLIFFE. ]"

1629 - Extract from 'Fire From Heaven' by David Underdown page 72 - " In 1629 there were thirteen licensed alesellers in the town, a number that grew to around twenty ten years later. Some of them kept large and impressive establishments like the 'George' the 'Antelope' the 'Crown' and the 'Rose'. 'The Ship' kept by William Wilson was somewhat less respectable, to judge by the number of reports of disorders ther, but such things were not unknown even at the 'George' "

1632 - 'Fire From Heaven' page 80 - further reference to Antelope Hotel; and pages 80 and 93

1634 - 'Fire From Heaven' page 159 and page 172- further references to Antelope Hotel;

1637 - 'Fire From Heaven' page 96 - further reference to Antelope Hotel;

1613-1642 - Extract from 'Fire From Heaven' page 122 - ---" There were also two families of apothecaries in the town: The Burys who kept the 'Antelope', and the Colsons .

1737 Burgage Rate for the Parish of St Peters in Dorchester (MRD Page 693) shows that Thomas Atkins was charged 6p pence for his house (The Antelope)

1776 - Extract from Bath Chronicle and Weekly Gazette Thursday 9th May - Philip FRANCIS, from the Star and Garter Salisbury, most respectfully begs leave to acquaint the Nobility, Gentry, and others travelling the Great Western road, that he has taken and entered upon The ANTELOPE INN in Dorchester: which is fitted up in an elegant and conveinient manner for the accommodation of those who please to honour him with their company - A good larder, and a stock of the best liquors will always be supplied; a strict attention will be paid to the management of the stables; and the utmost assiduity employed, to render the House agreeable to its visitors, so as to deserve their encouragement and recommendation. A Post Coach, Chaises and saddle horses.

1830 Pigots Directory - 'Antelope Hotel', Proprietor James Stent, Cornhill

1839 Roberts Directory - 'Antelope Hotel',South Street Proprietor Richard Gaulton, South Street

1841 Census - Richard Gaulton aged 40 years Hotel Keeper

1844 Pigots Directory - - 'Antelope Hotel',, Proprietor Richard Gaulton, Cornhill

1851 Census living at South Street St Peters Parish Dorchester - James Yearsley Head Married aged 49 Innkeper and Farmer of 78 acres: Herefordshire. + wife, son + 6 servants & 2 guests

1852 Slater's Diretory - 'Antelope Hotel', James Yearlsey, Cornhill

1861 Census Living at 14 Cornhill 'Antelope Hotel' St Peters Parish Dorchester - Stephen Yearsley Head Unmarried Aged 17, Victualler's son, born Dorchester with 10 servants & 1 Visitor [Boarder]

1865 Harrods Directory - James Yearsley, 'Antelope' Family & Commercial Hotel, Posting House, and Excise Office, Cornhill

1868 26 Sep - Bridport News - Special licence to 10th Oct 1868 granted to Landlord Mr. James Yearsley on receipt of a statement that from the assignees of Charles GARDINER, formerly the manager of that hotel and in whose name the license was taken that the document had been destroyed by him; from Oct the license will be grated for the ensuing year.

1871 Census living at 14 Cornhill, "Antelope Hotel" St Peters Parish - James Sly Head Married Aged 52 Hotel proprietor born Melcombe Regis, with wiufe, daughter visitor neice 7 servants boarder

1875 Post Office Directory - James Sly 'Antelope' Family & Commercial Hotel & Posting House

1881 Census living at Cornhill - William Twinlock Head married, aged 61, Hotel Proprietor, born Stamford Lincolnshire, with wife, niece,+ 9 servants

1889 Kellys Directory - Mrs Jane Dunn, Cornhill 'Antelope Hotel' Commercial [Note:- Charles and Jane Dunn came to live in Dorchester c1856 and Charles is in the 1861 Census and his wife Jane Dunn is living at The White Heart Hotel at 53 High East St Dorchester All Saints parish where Charles is a Hotel Keeper born Gillingham and Jane age 35 born Yeaston (just east of Henstridge) Somerset. Charles however died in 1863 aged 44. In the 1871 Census Jane Dunn widow is living next to the Great Western Railway Station Nursery Junction Hotel a widow aged 43 Landlady (Innkeeper) born Henstridge Somerset; In 1881 in Lodgings High West St age 53 (Not 58) a seamstress born Dorchester? ]

1891 Census living at No.14 Cornhill 'The Antelope Hotel' - Mrs Jane Dunn Head Widow, aged 63 Hotel Proprietor born Henstridge Dorset, with grandaughter, 3 visitors, 8 servants. [Note:- See Probate Jane Dunn died 17th July 1894 buried Civic Cemetery Weymouth Ave 20th July 1894 aged 71]

1894 9th Oct 1894 Weymouth Telegram The Management of the Antelope Hotel -- We understand that Mr Clement Dunn has just taken over the management of the above well known hostelry in succession to his late mother (Mrs Jane DUNN) who for many years was the proprietoress. Mr DUNN's numerous friends wish him every success.

1901 Census living at 14 Cornhill Hotel Proprietor Clement Dunn Head Married aged 45 born Dorchester with wife Helena age 42 4 boarders and 5 servants

"Antelope Tap"

"Antelope Tap" was situated in Cornhill 1841; South Street in 1851 ; Princess Street in 1861 ; Trinity Street from 1871

1841 Census 'Antelope Tap' listed as part of Cornhill Charles Parsons aged 30 to 34 Hotel Tap Keeper (Publican) with wife child and servant and lodger

1851 Census Living at South Street St Peters Parish Dorchester - 'The Antelope Tap' James Hoare head married aged 46 Innkeeper born Herefordshire with wife & 4 children + boarders? described as travellers. A son John James son James & Matilda Hoare bap HT 15 Jun 1851 abode Back West St occupation father publican. .

1861 Census living at 'Antelope Tap' Princess Street Holy Trinity Parish, - Edward Fudge Head Married aged 43 Licensed Victualler born Fordington with his wife, neice and a lodger

1871 Census living at Trinity Street "Antelope Tap" St Peters Parish - George Cleall, Head Married aged 28 Painter? born Dorchester Dorset, with wife Mary Ann Cleall 2 children, mother and servant

1881 Census St Peters Parish Districts 5a, 5b, and 6 - Preamble to Census return states 'the east side of Trinity Street including the 'Antelope Tap' but does not identify in the return itself. George Bartlett (See 1889) is living in Trinity Street with his 25 year old sister Mary Jane Bartlett [no occupation given for her] George is only aged 17 working as a groom so unlikely to be the innkeeper.

1889 Kellys Directory George Bartlett , Trinity Street, 'Antelope Inn Tap Public House' Commercial

1891 Census Living at Trinity Street 'Antelope Tap' - George Bartlett Head Married aged 38 Landlord of a Public house born Queen Camel Somerset with wife Susanna Cooper Thorne whom he married at Fordington St Georges Church on 13th April 1876 [Link to George BARTLETT (1853-1907) ]

1895 Kellys Directory - George Bartlett 'Antelope Inn Tap' Public House Number 1 Trinity street

1901 Census George Bartlett Head with wife Susannah Manager Antelope Hotel Tap

aparitor; apparitor A messenger who serves the process of a spiritual court
appurtenances The rights and duties attached to the holding of manorial land. The most important were submission to the manor court, grazing rights and the payment of various fines to the lord of the manor. A pew, or part of a pew, in church was often an 'appurtenance' of a specific house in the parish.
apron (aperne) The apron hung down the front of the dress, Made of Linen it would be hand made and hand sown. Where worn by ladies of fashion it would could have an edging of needle or bobbin lace, and even be embroidered in coloured silks. White was common for respectable ladies of the town, but around the house or for working women, coloured cloth was more usual. An apron (or a Napron as it should be more correctly called) was used for all sorts of work; drying hands and dishes, carrying hot or dirty pans, wiping surfaces and utensils etc. For the less well off it might be unbleached and made of wool. Picture Link
apud Latin word used in probate statements meaning 'at, by, near; to; towards'
a pynt or appoynt appoint
'The Ark Inn' 1865 Harrods Directory - William Blandamer 'The Ark Inn' East Fordington

armiger An esquire, one entitled to bear heraldic arms
Armitage in Dorset

Not to be confused with "Armitage in Staffordshire". This is an old spelling for the parish of 'Hermitage' in Dorset where there was a Priory with close associations with Dorchester. 'Hermitage' is approximately 15k (10miles) NNW of Dorchester where the Priory of Hermitage was situated in the heart of the forest of 'Blackmore'. In the 15th Century the house became the free chapel of St Mary simply refered to as 'The Hermitage'

See the History of the County of Dorset: Volume 2. It's association with Dorchester and Fordington appears to date from 1469 when Edward IV placed it in the custody of William BROWN Clerk who already held the Mastership of the Hospital of St John at Dorchester. The grant for life of the yearly annuity of 52s 2d with which the chapel was charged to the King of which 38s 10d was payable to the exchequer and 13s 4d to the Bailiff of the Manor of Fordington for the use of the Duke of Cornwall. Fordington has long been a Royal Manor within the estates of the Dutchy of Cornwall. Parish Registers are held at the DHC in Dorchester but only date from 1712. Some earlier records exist however dating from 1604 These are the Bishops Transcripts imagerd by CLDS

athwart across
axeltree an axle or the pivot on which a wheel revolved
Back South Street [South Back Street] Back South Street became Trinity Street and is currently in St Peters Parish - The road runs parallel behind 'South Street' which is how it got it's name. See 1771 Map of Dorchester coded 'G' in index. It was still being called Back South street in the St Peters during the 1841 Census but had changed to Trinity Street in Holy Trinity Parish by 1851. In 1861 it is Trinity Street but back in St Peters Parish where it has remained.
Back West Street, or West Back streetBack West Street became Hospital Street and later Princes Street - See Princes St for more info.
backsyde, backside a phrase in common use meaning the back outside of buildings, usually including a partially or wholly enclosed yard.
bailiff A Manorial Lord's local manager, appointed from outside the tenantry. He looked after the Lords interests, superintended his demesne land, and liaised with tenants of the manor through their representatve the Reeve. He was responsible to the Lord of the Manor or his steward for the efficient carrying out of his duties. In Dorchester things were handled slightly differently as the King had granted them a Charter empowering the Corporation to administer various forms of local Government. Two Bailiffs were appointed by the Corporation and they together with the Capital Burgesses were given power to make Bye-laws for the due government of the inhabitants. Link to a list of Bailiffs for Dorchester (1394-1834)
ballastman A person who loads ballast into the empty hold of ships
bands or bandes (1) a loose, turnover collar which succeeded the ruff. (2) pair of strips of thin white material, worn by men round the neck, the ends hanging down in front. Still worn by the legal profession. (3) hinges with long flat bands of iron fixed across the door [Source A Glossary of Household farming and Trade Terms from Probate Inventories by Rosmary Milward Derbyshire Record Society Occasional Paper published 1977]
baptizatus(-a) erat latin for: was baptised
baraels or barrells barrels
baretry The practice of exciting or encouraging disputes or law-suits
bargaine

'a contract' often referring to a lease of property. In Dorchester/Fordington Wills it is often used less formerly as a condition of inheritance, such as 'I give you these goods/land etc on condition that you do something else such as look after your mother or allow a sister or son to reside in the house until they die or marry or receive the interest from an investment etc. Definition in Dictionary of Genealogy by Terrick VH Fitz Hugh:-

Bargain and Sale . A procedure for the private and secret conveyance of property devised to take advantage of a loophole in the Statute of Uses of 1535-6. When property was transferred, the Statute made possession pass at once to the person who was to have the use of the land, instead of to any trustee who was the nominal purchaser. By Bargain and sale procedure the vendor bargained and sold a property to a purchaser and so found himself holding it to the purchasers us, but according to the Statute ownership had passed at once to the user, so there was no need to enroll any conveyance documents and so make the sale public. However the Statute of Enrollments was quickly passed, enforcing enrollment of such transfers either at one of the central courts or before a Justice of the Peace. This regulation made the procedure less popular and it was gradually replaced in favour by that of lease and release.

Example in Fordington Will of John Oliver of Fordington dated 17th May 1573

basing basin - often listed in Dorchester inventories as a 'basing and yewr' ie a 'basin and ewer' usually owned by better off traders etc
Basten [Bastin] 'Basten' is a common abbreviation used in Fordington for the Surname 'Sebastian' e.g. Sebastian PITFIELD
Bathsua [Bathsuha] 'Bathsuha' is a biblical name meaning the same as 'Bathsheba' example Bashsua was the first wife of William Allen who was the 2nd husband of Elizabeth White the sister of the Rev John White (1575-1648).
Bathsheba 'Bathsheba' is a biblical name meaning the seventh daughter; the daughter of satiety
batrye a quarrel or dispute
Batt: a recognised abbreviation in Dorchester & Fordington for the Christian name of 'Bartholomew'
bayley or ballivus bailiff - A manorial lord's local manager appointed from outside the tenantry. He watched his lord's interests, superintended his demesne land and conducted relations with the tenants of the manor through their representative the reeve.
bays baize cloth
beadstead a frame with slats or boards or rope laid across under the mattress Picture Link
bearing sheet More correcty referred to as a 'bearing cloth': Bearing cloths were used for ceremonial occasions, particularly baptisms, up to the end of the 17th century. The bearing cloth would have been wrapped round the swaddled child during the procession to church but removed for the immersion of the child in the font as part of the ceremony. The cloths were generally very ornate, and therefore expensive to produce. Such a cloth would traditionally be passed down through the family, being used for sons, daughters and cousins alike, and many remained treasured family possessions. The bearing cloth was effectively replaced by the christening robe when total immersion ceased to be used, therefore allowing the child's clothing to be more decorative in itself. Source V & A follow link for image. Examples: Dorchester Will of Richard Barker (1542-1621) Dorchester Will of Edmond BENVENEWE, Hellyer dated 30 Jan 1622 proved 3rd Apr 1623.
behoofe behoof (Old English) - benefit or advantage
Belhuish Belhuish was a hamlet in the parish of East Stoke Dorset but was transferred to the Parish of West Lulworth in 1888

'The Bell' Public House,

and

History of 'Bell Street'

[Note:- Now the Star Inn]

Map Dorchester Bell St 1886 The Bell Inn

27 May 1717 - Referred to in the Will of this date of Thomas Pitman a grocer of Dorchester which was proved 18th Nov 1717. Extract from the will:-

    Whereas the house I now live in is and stands settled upon myself for life, remainder to my son Thomas in tays [entailed], remainder to my son Edward entailed with remainder over, my will is that any house adjoining thereto commonly called the 'BELL', one part whereof is now a Warehouse, and the other part a Malthouse, shall be held and enjoyed by such person or persons as shall during the term which I have therein be seized of the inheritance of the said house which I now live in, To which end I give and bequeath the said house called the 'BELL' together with the leaden cistern therein AND all and singular other the appurtenances to the said last mentioned house belonging to the said  Baruch NOWELL , Joseph DAMER and Samuel PITMAN their executors and administrators during the remainder of my term therein In Trust that they from time to time during the reminder of the said term shall permit such person and persons as shall from time to time be seized of the inheritance of the said hosue to hold and enjoy the said house called the 'BELL' together with the said Cistern and other the appurtenances to his and their own use

    The extract right has been taken from the 1886 Ordnance Survey Map of Dorchester. The large Street across the top is 'High East Street' from which 'Bell Street' descends southwards and is part of All Saints Parish. The BELL is thought to be the 'P.H' (for Public House) shown on the north east side of the junction of Bell Street with Durngate Street.

    As can be seen this public house sits at the center of a group of buildings which fits the description given above from Thomas PITMAN's Will and the Malthouse is even marked 'as Maltho.' on the map with what could easily be a warehouse at the back.

    I am not sure however when the street first became called' Bell Street' as the 1771 Map of Dorchester shows this top section to be called 'Jail Lane'. The very bottom of this lane is called 'Gallows Hill' in both maps. Perhaps it took it's name from the pub which was the most substatial group of buildings in the street at that time although possibly of a slightly different shape in, and before, 1771. It was called 'Bell Street' in 1839 as Roberts Street Directory shows a Mr Prince as the manager of the Gas works in Bell St (see 1886 Map - link above - as just off the bottom of this extract) and the Gas works was built in 1833.

bellmetal (belmettle)

Bell metal is a hard alloy of copper and tin for making bells, with a higher tin content than bronze. (Source Oxford Dict English). In the 17th Century however it was also used for making other household products particularly skillets. Picture Link Example Inventory of the Goods and Chattels of Micheas RASKER (d.1680) a Yeoman of Fordington who possessed a 'Belmettle skillet'

bely a spelling said to be nearly obsolete in 1775 - To belie to falsify - represent in an unjust light
besom or besome a broom
bethlam or bethlem Bethlem Royal Hospital or the treatment of mental illness, See Holy Trinity Vestry Minutes for examples of parishioners being referred to the Hospital : e.g. 19th March 1780 James GRIFFIN appears to have been sent and died there as the Overseers had to pay for his funeral expenses. also June 9th 1788 Elizabeth the wife of Jacob BANKES was taken there by the Overseer Thomas SHEPPARD and the Overseers paid for her husband to attend her as well. She returned to Dorchester to be placed in the workhouse on 14th June 1789
Bexington Bexington is a hamlet within the parish of Puncknowle
bibell or (byble) Bible: The bible played an important part in the lives of most families in Dorchester in the 17th century. For them to be itemised in an Inventory would have meant they were of both sybolic in as much as it was a demonstration of the Lords word being studied in the home, and also a valuable item in its own right. Some were highly decorated and generally secured in a bible box. Picture Link. Example in Fordington the Will of John RASKER 1661.
billows (or bellowes, billowes) bellows: mechanical contrivance for creating a jet of air, consisting usually of a hinged box with flexible sides, which expands to draw in air through an inward opening valve and contracts to expel the air through a nozzle. When included in a household inventory would have been used to speed combustion when cooking. Picture Link
Binghams Melcombe See under Melcombe Horsey Parish
birth date estimation - 27 years old for a man and 25 years old for a woman. Estimated year of birth:- Where year of birth is unknown it has been estimated (identified by use of the letter 'c' for circa before the year) as being 27 years old for a man and 25 years old for a woman. These are averages applying to the Tudor period (1485-1603) for England. See the 'History Today' website under 'Courtship in Tudor England' and many others. It continued however during the House of Stuart (1603-1714). the ' Oxford Illustrated History of Britain' states regarding the Stuart Period" In all social groups, marriage was usually deferred until both partners were in their mid twenties and the wife only had twelve to fifteen childbearing years before her. The reason for this pattern of late marriage seems to be the firm convention that the couple save up enough money to launch themselves as an independent household before they wed. For the better off, this frequently meant university, legal training, an apprenticeship of seven years or more; for the less well off a long term of domestic service, living in with all found but little in the way of cash wages". I have tested this against known birth and marriage dates when writing other biographies and this held up really well for Anthony EAMES (1595 – 1686) of Fordington who emigrated to New England and its true of the Labouring classes as well
blackdown Blackdown is a hamlet in Broadwindsor Parish and had a chapel dedicated to Holy Trinity erected in 1840 . A separate Register exists for Blackdown but remains with the parish rather than the Dorset History Centre D.H.C
"The Black Bear" The BLACK BEAR was a Victualling House in Forthington

1760 17 Sep - An Ale House Licence was granted to Thomas ROLLS of Forthington for which he was bound to owe the King £10 if he did not comply with the terms of the licence - surities bound with him were Leonard WINZOR and David PHIPPARD both of Forthington in the sum of £5 each

"Black Horse Tavern" (or Black Horse Inn or Black Horse Hotel)

Probably renamed the Dolphin Inn between 1845-1851)

The BLACK HORSE was situated in Church Lane which runs north to south from High East street past All Saints parish church. down to Durngate Lane. See 1771 Map of Dorchester street marked 'O' . Also P.H. shown on the 1886 Map of Dorchester in Church Street and as being next to Whetstone Alms Houses..

1737 Burgage Rate for the Parish of All Saints in Dorchester (MRD Page 694) shows that Anthony's House paid a rate of 3 pence for "The Black Horse"

1739 - In a listing of Rental of Town Burgages etc taken in 1780 is reference to a Mr John Pitman lessee - 1739 for 'The Black Horse Inn' in All Saints Parish (MRD page 700)

1785 - The Will of Thomas Hewstins Victualler of Dorchester in his will dated 18th Feb 1785 states "if my wife should be willing to carry on the business of a publican in the 'BLACK HORSE --that they should entrust her with the same.

1830 Pigots Directory - 'Black Horse', Publican Thomas Lester, Church Street Dorchester

1839 Roberts Directory, Inns, Hotels, & Public Houses: 'Black Horse', Publican Robert J Troake, Church Street Dorchester

1841 Census - Church Lane All Saints Parish - Robert Troake aged 46 Publican with Sarah wife aged 42 and 4 children + a lodger traveller + family with 3 children and a servant

1842 - Pigots Directory, Dorchester Dorset, Page 121 under Taverns and Public Houses - 'Black Horse' Robert Toarke, Church Street

1844 Pigots Directory - Taverns & Public Houses : 'Black Horse' Robert Treake, Church Street Dorchester

[Note 1851 Census shows The Dolphin Inn in Church Lane" run by Charles Parsons Innkeeper]

blackmoor (or blackmoore) a negro [Source The new and complete dictionary of the English language by John Ash published 1775] Also see comments under Slave Trade
B.M.V B.V.M. Is usually used in the context of Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary also known as Ladys day or 25th March:
B.M.V. refers to Blessed Mary the Virgin [Note:- There was a Fraternity of the Blesseds Mary the Virgin in Dorchester described under the History of All Saints, Holy Trinity and St Peters. Also in Charters 431; 508; 524; 526.557, etc as "on the south side of High West Street, Dorchester in St. Peter's church on the west" Charter 560 states Robert Moreye, was chaplain, and John Pasco, Steward of the Blessed Mary in church of St. Peter of Dorchester,]
'The Boare Inn' The Boare Inn was situated in All Saints Parish Dorchester

1708 In his Will dated 5th September 1708 Richard Brooks a wagoner of Dorchester left 'to my son Joshua Brooks my messuage burgage and tenement with the appurtenances in the Parish of All Saints in Dorchester called the "Boare" during the residue of my estate'
board (tableboard) Table top supported on trestles but not fixed to them, they were joined by a central stretcher near the ground, which was secured by removeable pegs. After use the table would be taken to pieces and stored against the wall. Picture Link
board cloth (bord cloth) a tablecloth
Bockhampton Bockhampton is a hamlet in the Parish of Stinsford
bole bowl
bolster bolster - a cylinder of stuffed fabric, filled with feathers or flock or wool. Stretched the whole width of the bed and was covered by the lower sheet.
bond points laces for tying garments or footwear
bolster a cylinder of stuffed fabric, filled with feathers or flock or wool. Stretched the whole width of the bed and was covered by the lower sheet
boot catcher a person employed at an Inn or Tavern to remove and clean a persons boots. e.g. William BULLEN is described as a 'boot catcher' at the Antelope Inn in South street Dorchester on 18th Dec 1842 on the baptism of his son William at HT church - and Richard DYKE is described as a 'boots' at the Kings Arms in Dorchester on 23rd March 1853 on the baptism of his son Richard at All Saints.
bord (or bord cloth) board - a term used to describe a table as it was a loose board which was supported by trestles. a board cloth was a tablecloth
borler person who made cheap coarse clothing
Borough In the Middle ages a large number of towns and villages were granted royal charters giving them powers of local government. Dorchester was a Borough and I have transcribed the Charter granted by James I on 26th June 1610 and that by Charles II on 22nd Septenber 1629
box 16th Century Box Picture Link
boucher butcher
bra (or braas or brase or brasse or brassen) brass
branding Prisoners Surviving Quarter Session Records in the 17th century confirm that prisoners held at the County Gaol in Dorchester were sometimes branded as a form of punishment and then usually discharged. They would be branded with a different letter according to their crime. Examples Quarter Sessions: held at Sherborne from 4th to 6th April 1665 (image 49) William PERKINS & Winfrith his wife: Katherine BURKHORNE : John COLLEY; Thomas HILAND & Anne his wife } To be burnt in the left shoulder with the Swew "R" [or perhaps "K"? ]& then discharged : William COOLE To be burnt with the Swew "F" [Probably a  brawler with F for "fraymaker"] in the left hand.
brandis (brandrith or brandreth) brandreth a gridiron or trivet or stand for sa pot or pan usually placed over or in front of an open fire Example Will of John RASKER of Fordington 1661 - maltster in his malthouse
brandyron brandiron; dialict word for a gridiron which was a platform of iron bars, with short feet and a long handle, for cooking meat over a fire.
Bridport Terrace Bridport Terrace is in West Fordington and fronts onto the south side of Bridport Road just after the Railway bridge and facing the Infantry Barracks - See the 1886 West Fordington Map
brightsmith metal worker - seems to have been used for polished metalwork on ships or other vehicles rather than blacksmith which was more concerned with wrought iron or basic blacksmith skills such as horse shoes etc
bristle grazier The only place that I have come across this phrase is as an occupation given on a baptism record for All Saints on 22nd July 1832 for a Mr Elias COLE who was described as a 'bristle grazier'. The 1775 dictionary defines 'bristle' as one of the stiff hairs that stand up on the back of swine and a research document that I came across suggests that a bristle grazier was a person who cut and sorted hair into different grades and colours for manufacture presumable for things like shaving brushes. Whether this was Mr Coles occupation remains to be seen as I could not locate him elsewhere apart from his marriage at Radipole where no occupation is given.
broches (broche or broaches) broches; another name for spit for roasting meat over a fire
brother brother - commonly used in Dorchester Wills to mean a 'brother-in-law' Some wills try to make it clearer by referring to a real brother as 'my own brother'
bruing brewing
bruing leade leaden cooling vessel used in brewing
buh abbreviation for bushel; measure of capacity 8 gallons for corn fruit malt etc Example Will of John RASKER Maltster of Fordington 1661
"Bulls Head Tavern" (or Bulls Head Inn) Link to a separate account of the Bull's Head (1839-1927) situated on Fordington Hill
Bull Stake [Bullstake] The 'Bull Stake' is another name for 'North Square' in the Parish of St Peters in Dorchester. The earliest reference to it comes from the Municipal Records of Dorchester (See Corporate Development File)
23rd Sep 1664 - A house in St Peters parish "over against the Bullstake", is named.
It is mentioned in various Wills for example that of Andrew Lake who was buried at Dorchester St Peters 9th Aug 1745 but not proved by his widow Ann until 8th June 1767.
Town lease held by Mr James Parsons 1754 for a messuage on the Bull Stake (page 701 MRD)
Town lease held by Mr Henry Evomy 1755 for a messuage in St Peters near the Bull Stake (page 700 MRD)
Mentioned in town accounts 17th Apr 1762 when Mr Whetham is paid 1s 6d for shrouding the trees in the Bullstake
It is shown on RL Kingstons Map of Dorchester dated 1771 see Street 'F'.
Mentioned in a lease dated 29th Aug 1777 referring to a messuage in St Peters parish "at the higher end of a street or place called the Bull Stake, bounded on the west by the common Pound of the Boroug, on the north by a close called the Castle, on the south by a street called Bull Stake. "
10 Jan 1803 - The Corporation had leased on 29th Aug 1777 to Lord Milton a messuage at the higher end of a place called the Bull Stake in St peters parish ---etc (page 493 MRD)
There is also a reference to it in John Hutchins "The History and Antiquities of the County of Dorset" page 399 under Charitable gifts to the hospital, and
The National Archives NM2/S/11 1825 referring to the location of the Dorchester Methodist Church.
burgage A house or other property in a town, rented by a free burgess under burgess tenure
Burgess originates from Anglo Norman French 'burgeis' :- an inhabitant of a town or borough with full rights of citizenship. In Dorchester 6 Aldermen & 6 other Burgesses were appointed under the charter published by Charles I on 6 Oct 1629 who with the Mayor and two Bailiffs were to be termed 'Capital Burgesses'.
Burton

Burton, often referred to in old documents about Dorchester such as street directories:

Both Higher and Lower BURTON are Tithings under the Manor of Fordington [Link to John Hutchins “The History and Antiquities of the County of Dorset” published 1860-1874.]

in 1841 Census however the Hamlet of 'Burton' is recorded under the parish of Charminster in Dorset. I think this was sometimes referred to as Higher Burton. 'Lower Burton' however, for example where the 'Sun Inn' is situated, is actually less than a mile north of Dorchester's High Street and many baptisms where the parents lived there were carried out in Holy Trinity Church during the period 1871-1890. e.g. Elizabeth Davis daughter of William & Sarah Samways of Burton was bap there 21st Nov 1886.

buryell burial
bushell bushel - a vessel used as a measure, containing 4 pecks or 8 gallons (equivalent to 36.4 litres). often used to measure corn, fruit, malt, wheat, etc. Can also be a liquid. Example Inventory of Micheas RASKER (d.1680)
butt butt: (of leather) the thicker part of a hide most often used as sole leather
butterchurn butter making vat in which milk or cream is agitated Link to background to butter making. In Dorchester they seem to refer to the barrel type as a butterchurn and the plunger type as a butterpump.
butterpump another word for butterchurn
buttery storeroom for liquor and food and also for relevant equipment
B.V.M. B.V.M. Is usually used in the context of Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary also known as Lady's day or 25th March: B.M.V. refers to Blessed Mary the Virgin [Note:- There was a Fraternity of the Blessed Mary the Virgin in Dorchester described under the History of All Saints, Holy Trinity and St Peters. Also in Charters 431; 508; 524; 526.557, etc as "on the south side of High West Street, Dorchester in St. Peter's church on the west" Charter 560 states Robert Moreye, was chaplain, and John Pasco, Steward of the Blessed Mary in church of St. Peter of Dorchester,]
bz Bz with a line over the top through the top of the b is an abbreviation for Bushel as in bushells of wheat or barley
Calendar (start of the New Year)

CALENDAR - (Including the START OF THE NEW YEAR) The system fixing the civil years beginning, length and sub divisions. In the middle ages dates were usually indicated (for years) by the REGAL YEAR of the reigning monarch, and (for days) by the number of days before or after the nearest CHURCH FESTIVAL or fast. When 'Anno Domini' years are shown, there was no regularity as to the day on which the year was considered to have begun. To the writer of any document New Years day might have been 1st January, 25th March or 25th December. At the reformation it was laid down in the Book of Common Prayer that 'the Supputation [reckoning] of the year of our Lord in the Church of England beginneth the Five and twentieth day of March, the same day supposed to be the first day upon which the world was created and the day when Christ was conceived in the womb of the Virgin Mary'.

In Fordington for example the vicar John JACOB usually started the year on 25th March in accordance with common convention but for the period 1722/4 he started the year on 1st March before reverting to the 25th in 1725.

In Dorchester when the existing Rector Edward Doughtie left in 1584 the curate gave a nil return for burials for the year, meaning to the end of December, and started 1585 in January.

In 1752 two changes were made in the English calendar. The first was from the Julian to the more accurate Gregorian system that had been introduced in Catholic countries by Pope Gregory XIII in March 1582. A difference of eleven days had accumulated between the systems, so the change necessitated England's losing that number of days. To bring that about the day following 2nd September 1752 was renumbered the 14th.

The second change which was of far greater importance to genealogists, was that the commencement of that year was brought forward from 25th March to the preceding 1st January. This changed January, February and most of March from being the last months of the Old year to the first of the New. As the new system had already been put into use by some people in advance of its official introduction, care has to be taken when transcribing documents of the pre 1752 period dated between 1st Jan and 24th March. The correct transcription procedure is to use both Old and new reckonings; for example, by copying '11th Jan 1645' as '11th Jan 1645/6'. When viewing the National Burial Index (which does not follow this procedure but relies upon a purely computer general sort by calendar month) it is necessary therefore when recording the burial to fully appreciate that burials with dates 1st Jan to 24th March actually post date those for March to December.

The months of September, October, November and December, which used to be the seventh to tenth months of the year, are sometimes found abbreviated to '7ber, 8ber, 9ber, 10ber' respectively and must not be mistaken for the present seventh to tenth months July to October.

See separate entry below for Christian Festivals

"The Canteen" 1841 Census living at 'The Canteen' Fordington District 4 - Charles Hodges aged 30 to 34 Publican born in Dorset

1851 Census living at 'The Canteen' Fordington District 6d - Isaac Parsons, Head Married aged 24 General Labourer to a Brewer and Keeper of the 'Canteen' born Long Bredy, with wife, son and servant

1852 Slaters Directory, 'Canteen' - Isaac Parsons , The Barracks Fordington

1861 Census Fordington District 9: living at the 'Canteen at Barracks' - Isaac Parsons Head Married aged 34 Canteen Keeper, born Longbredy, with wife and 5 chidren.

1871 Census Fordington Barracks: Isaac Parsons Head Married aged 43 'Canteen' Serjeant, Born Lonway [should be Long Bredy] Dorset, with wife & 4 children.

1881 Census living at Royal Horse Artillery Barracks, West Fordington - Thomas Kendle Head Married aged 23 'Canteen' Serjeant born Southampton, with wife and son and an 'Inn Servant'

1886 11th April Fred ATKINS described as "Canteen Keeper" - father of Eva Atrkins baptised at Christchurch West Fordington

1888 November 21st Fred ATKINS described as the "Canteen Tenant" - father of Harsant Atkinsbaptised Christchurch West Fordington

1891 Census living at District Depot Barracks - William Richardson Husband Married aged 32 'Canteen' Steward Depot Dorset Regt born St Bartholomew London, with wife and 3 children
canvas A kind of unbleached cloth made of hemp or flax (Source 1775 Dictionary) Used for hard wearing items such as shirts and aprons, it was not like the modern cotton canvas of today but of a coarser woven natural coloured cloth which could be made in several different qualities and sometimes trimmed.
capite See 'title in capite'
car (or car II) 'car' was often used in documents to refer to the regnal years of the reign of Charles Ist whose reign started on 27th March 1625. Hence Car 3 refers to the 3rd year of his reign which ran for 12 months from 27th March 1827. Charles the II's reign was usually referred to as car II and commenced from 30th January 1648/9. After the first year his reign was interupted by Cromwell so his reign years are 1 followed by 15 up to 37. Hence 'Car.II 17' runs for 12 months from 30th Jan 1664.
"Castle Tavern" (or Castle Inn)

Later called 'Marabout Castle'

1839 Roberts Directory, Castle, Publican William West, Fordington

1841 Census living at Grove Buildings - William West aged 35 to 39 Publican born Dorset

1848 Sherborne Mercury Sat 4th Nov 1848 - DEATHS: Oct 30 at Upper Fordington, Dorchester Mr William West of the Castle Inn aged 46.

1851 Census living at Grove Buildings Fordington - Charles Raynold Head married aged 40; Innkeeper Coachbuilder formerly, born St Peters Dorchester, with wife, daughter and servant

1852 Slaters Directory - Charles Raynold, 'Castle' Grove Buildings West Fordington.

1861 Census living at No 14 Grove Buildings 'Castle Inn' - Elizabeth Raynolds Head Widow aged 55 Landlady born Chawton Hampshire with 2 daughters, servant and 2 Boarders

1865 Harrods Directory - Mrs. Elizabeth Raynold 'Castle Inn', Grove Buildings , West Fordington

1875 Post Office Directory - Henry Butten , Castle Inn, Grove Buildings [West Fordington]

1889 Kellys Directory, Richard Hare [Haw], Grove Buildings 'Castle Public House' [West Fordington], Commercial

1891 Census Living at 14 Grove Buildings 'Castle Inn' West Fordington - Richard Haw Head Married aged 62 Licensed Victualler born Blandford, with wife, daughter & servant (Ostler)

chaffin dish (chafing or chaffing dish) Chaffing Dish a portable vessel which was designed to take hot coals or charcoal and was used for the preparation of foods that needed to be kept warm or cooked gently at the table. Metal chafing dishes are also known such as one found in a chest on the wreck of the Mary Rose, used by a barber-surgeon for heating up irons, pitch or wax.   Picture Link to kitchen items   Example Inventory of the goods and chattels of Micheas RASKER (d.1680) a Yeoman of Fordington
chandler (chandlery) In most cases that I have seen concerning Dorchester and the surrounding district this does not generally refer to someone dealing in supplies for ships and boats but a dealer in household items such as oil, soap, and particularly candles and groceries
chapman Around Dorchester it was used to describe an itinerant trader or peddler
charger (chardger) large platter or dish     Picture Link to kitchen items   
chatole chattels
chayre or (charres) chair(s) The inventory of Joseph Purchase of Dorchester in 1682 for example refers to tymber, lether and rush chayres. A Rush chair for example was one with a rush or canework seat.
"Chequers Tavern" (or Chequers Inn)

The Chequers Inn is situated in All Saints Parish 47 High East Street Dorchester

1654 Will of Leonard MILLER the Elder Gentleman of Fordington dated 1st July 1654 proved 14th Sep 1654 "To wife Agnes my messuage etc called 'The Phonix' within the parish of All Saints in Dorchester in the tenure of Charles ALLEN and I give the said Agnes the yearly rents due of my house called the Chequer and for my house in the tenure of Peter FFILDEWE within the parish of All Saints"

1712 - Will of Sebastian Hunt Sergemaker of Dorchester dated 13th Oct 1712 refers to one of 4 of his properties being in the tenure of Jane Saunders Widow commonly called the 'Chequers Inn'

1744 -Will of John Lilly Innholder of Dorchester - beneficiary son Harry Lilly left The Chequer Inn in which he lives [Note:- Harry Lilly was buried at All Saints Church in Dorchester on 16th Nov 1745 and apart from 2 butts of beer No 13. and No.29 in his celler at the Chequer (Inn) and a few bequests everything else was left to his wife Hannah Lilly]

1830 Pigots Directory, 'Chequers', Publican Thomas Tullidge, High East Street Dorchester

1839 Roberts Directory, 'Chequers',, Publican Thomas Tullidge High East Street Dorchester. [1841 Census aged 52 High East St a Malster: 1851 Census Thomas Tullidge married age 68 retired Malster mliving 4 High East street]

1842 - Pigots Directory, Dorchester Dorset, Page 121 under Taverns and Public Houses - 'Chequers' William Stevens, High East Street

1844 Pigots Directory 'Chequers',, William Stephens, High East Street Dorchester

1851 Census All Saints Parish 7 High East Street Dorchester, 'Chequers Inn', John Stephens aged 54 married Victualler born Exeter Devon with wife nephew & visitors

1852 Slaters Directory 'Chequers', - John Stephens, High East Street

1861 Census living at 'Chequers Inn' No. 47 High East Street - George Hayman Head married aged 38 Victualler, with wife 4 children 4 Boarders & Servant

1871 Census living at 47 High East Street - Francis Porter Head widower Aged 36 Licensed Victualler born Stafford with 2 sons servant and boarder

1875 Post Office Directory - Francis Porter 'Chequers Inn' , High East Street

1881 Census Living at 47 High East street - Francis Porter Head Married Aged 45 Innkeeper born Stafford, with wife, son, visitor, and servant

1889 Kellys Directory, Joseph Porter High East Street 'Chequers Inn Public House', Commercial

1895 - Kellys Directory - Joseph Porter 'Chequers Inn 47 High East Street.

1891 Census living at [47] High East Street, 'The Chequers' - Joseph Porter Head married aged 29 Licensed Victualler born Dorchester, with a visitor, and servant

cherchiefe (or kerchief) A kerchief was a large square of linen folded diagonally and pinned or tied about the neck. By covering the back and neck heat was kept in when cold and sunstroke avoided when hot.
chest Picture Link  :   Picture Link
chiluer or chilve or chilver (lamb) a chilver is a female lamb. They were often identified as such in the wills of yeomen and husbandsmen in Fordington who had little money but left bequests of female lambs to their children as they were worth a lot more and could be bred from and used to start their own flock. They also appear in some Fordington Wills as 'Chilver Hoggs' meaning a female pig. Example Will of Elizabeth WHITE widow of Fordington died 1607 and Richard Seager of Fordington who died in 1625 include several such bequests.
chirurgion, or chirugeon, chyrurgeon, or chursurgeon A surgeon [Examples Will of Thomas Herne, Chirurgeon of Dorchester Buried St Peters 31 Jan 1700; Will of Robert Wallis, Chirurgeon now belonging to His Majesty's Ship Defiance of Dorchester, Dorset; Will of Josiah BYLES barber and chirurgeon of Dorchester dated 20th Dec 1707 buried 20 Jan 1707/8; See also Medical Directories
Christian Names List of Religious Christian Names used in Dorchester & Fordington: Religion played an important part in the lives of Dorchester and Fordington inhabitants in years gone by. Stimulated by the preaching's of the Rev John White many named their children after qualities they strove to attain in their community and this practice extended right through the Victorian age. In many ways I suppose I regret the loss of such names in our society today and this nostalgia, for a reason I can't even properly explain to myself, made me list some examples of them as I faithfully transcribed over 50,000 records for this site. For those as sentimental as myself I have listed them in the attached document. Needless to say human frailty being what it is many did not live up to the names given to them.
Church Festivals

The CHURCH FESTIVALS and fasts often used to date events are too numerous to list but those that are fixed, or ones most often used, plus some of the dates observed as 'solemn days' are available via the link provided. In most parishes the day of the saint to whom the local church is dedicated may also be found used for dating purposes. For example St Georges day was the 23rd April although I have not found this being used to date documents at Fordington. A table for the moveable feast of Easter Day and other feasts linked to when Easter Day occurred can be accessed via this link.

C.L.D.S. Church of Latter day Saints. Link to their website. Based in Salt Lake City and responsible for the creation of a computer programme called the IGI (International Genealogical Index) to be used as an aid to church members who were asked to research their ancestry as a part of their belief. Their catalogue is especially useful as it is possible to enter a parish and get a listing of all the records that they have microfilmed. These can be viewed at a local CLDS History Center (there is usually a center within about 20 miles of where you live) where these films can be viewed. Here is a link to records they hold on Fordington as an example. In recent years they have started to image these records and make them available on line for which it is necessary to register. There are no charges involved in dealing with the CLDS nor do you have to be a member of the church to use their history centre. It was members of the church that were originally responsible for setting up Ancestry.com.
close stool close stool - a commode Link to picture
'Coach & Horses' Victualling House

The 'Coach & Horses' was a signed Inn or Victualling House in Forthington [Fordington]

1758 - An Ale House Liceence was issued on 12th Sep 1758 to Jane TAYLOR at the sign of the 'Coach & Horses' to keep a Victualling House in Forthington for 12 months
from 29th Sep 1758. Surities were Leonard WINZOR and David PHIPPARD both of Forthington for the sum of £10 each.

1760 - An Ale House Licence was issued on 17th Sep 1760 to Jane TAYLOR at the Sign of the 'Coach & Horses' t in Forthington - Surities by Leonard WINSOR & Thomas ROLLS both of Forthington in the sum of £10 each.

cobord or (cobbord, cubbard, cuppboard) cupboard Picture Link to 17th century example, most would not be as grand as this
cockloft A small upper loft under the ridge of a roof
coelebs Latin for:- bachelor
coffer (or coffre, cofer, copher) Wooden box or chest with a rounded top, often a strong box for valuables. Picture Link  :   Picture Link   :   Picture Link  :   Picture Link
Cokers Froome a Hamlet in the parish of Holy Trinity Dorchester lying just north north east of Dorchester between the hamlet of Frome Whitfield and Stinsford
coles (coles pannier, a cole rack) coles = coals. A 'cole pannier' is a pair of baskets used for transporting charcoal or coal on horseback. A cole rack (or cow rake or cowlrake) used for scraping ashes together. Example of use of the word 'coles' Inventory of Macheas Rasker (d.1680) Yeoman of Fordington "20 bushels of Coles"
Colliton StCalled 'Pease Lane' in the 19th century, this street was then more extensively built up than it is now. Development culminated about the middle of the century with the building of at least three courts of small tenements at right angles to the street; most of these have now been demolished, but a number of small early 19th-century houses remain in the street itself. Source British History on line
comp or (comp et ex) A phrase used in Quarter Sessions order books. 'Comp' was variously used and may mean that he 'complied with' or is ordered to comply with, the court order'; or 'he appeared' (comparuit); or that two or more people have now settled their differences (compromissum). 'et ex' means and is discharged.

The Compasses Cottages (at foot of Glyde Path Hill)

'The Compasses Inn (at Glyde Path )

The New Compasses Public House (at the Grove)

References to 'The Compasses' can be found in all Census Returns for the Parish of Holy Trinity 1841-1891 etc when they refer to a number of cottages; with the 1861 Census making their location clear as shown below. We only have two ref so far to the Compasses as an Inn as below so it seems likely that beer was brewed at one of the cottages and sold there to anyone who called in.It is not advertised as an Inn in any of the local trade directories although 'The New Compasses Public House' appears in Kellys Directory for 1915 but situated at The Grove West Fordington.

1851 Census West Fordington, 'Compasses Inn' William Cox Head; Mar; 46; Common carrier. Beer Retailer; Dorset Fordington; with wife 5 children Mother + 3 Visitors [Lodgers]

1861 Census - Preamble to Census refers to 'The Compasses' at the foot of Glyde Path Hill in the Tithing of Frome Whitefield (part of Holy Trinity Parish Dorchester district 3). Also ref to Compasses Cottages then occupied by John WILLS and his family.

1868 19 Nov - Newspaper report of inquest into the death of James Richard RUSSELL Landlord of the 'Half Moon Inn' in North Square Dorchester who drowned - deposition by Richard Notley makes reference to went to the 'Compasses' by Russell's instructions and called for two glasses of beer, but Russell never came.

coney or coneyes rabbit or rabbits
constable

Elected annually by the tenantry, he had to report, and take action on a great number of matters among them: felonies committed, escaped prisoners, riots, unlawful assemblies, non attendance at church, oppression by other officers, commercial irregularities, licensing of ale houses, compiling juror lists, drunkenness. He usually had assistants who dealt with things such as unauthorised building of additional cottages and dovecotes, vagabonds, intruders, militia muster rolls, taking of lewd women before justices of the peace and detaining refractory fathers of bastards

Constables for Fordington were appointed at the Quarter Sessions

copulati sunt [copulatus or conjugatus or conjunctus] latin for:- were joined = were married :
Copyhold Copyhold is a form of tenure for land held of a Lord of teh Manor in return, originally for agricultural services butsince Tudor times for money payments. On the admission of a new tenant a payment (fine) to the Lord was requiered, and on death of the Tenant a Heriot. Tenure of such land could be transferred only by its surrender to the Lord, and by admission by him of the new tenant, who was often the heir of the old one. Each admission was recorded in the Court Rolls and a copy of the entry given to the new tenant, for whom it fulfilled the functionof a title deed, hence the name Copyhold.

This form of tenure was made commutable to freeholdby an Act of 1841, but it was an Act of 1853/4 that brought about a general commutation, although copyhold tenure was not finally abolished until 1st January 1926. Copyhold is also known as customary tenure, since its conditions were governed by custom of the manor. An example of Copyhold tenure was the Will of Elias GALPIN (1756-1846) Maltster & Beer Retailer
coram Latin - before 'in ones presence; in person'
cordwainer A shoemaker. Cordwain was originally a kind of leather imported from Spain and used to make shoes
corn pike (corne pick) a pitchfork [Example Inventory of William WHITE (d.1595) Husbandman of Fordington]
Coryates Coryates is a hamlet in the parish of Portesham
cosen to cosen is to cheat or deceive
cosier a cobbler - The New and Complete Dictionary of the English Language by John Nash published in 1795 states 'COSIER nearly obsolete, from the french couser to sew. a cobler, a botcher, a sowter'
cosin or (cozen)

Cousin: I have been asked about the definition of cousin in the 17th century a number of times so I think the best thing to do is quote verbatim the entry in "The Dictionary of Genealogy" my bible by Terrick VH Fitz Hugh (since deceased) who used to be a member of the West Surrey Family History Society to which I belonged for many years.

"Cousin: A term formerly loosely used, and often meaning a nephew or niece. A cousin German is a first cousin, i.e. the child of an uncle or aunt. A cousin-once removed expresses the relationship between a person and his cousin's child or parent, the 'once removed' referring to a difference of one generation. Hence 'twice removed' indicates a difference of two generations, and so on. People who are 'second cousins' to each other are the children of first cousins".

couch-bed a bed with no hangings
coul (cow) troughe Coul troughe is a trought of cold water into which the blacksmith plunged hot iron
counterfeit pass false document alleged to be from a justice of the peace or other official authorising the bearer to travel
coverled or (coverledd, covelled, coverlett, coverlid, coverlest) A modern term for a coverled is a bed cover or bedspread See definition of 'Coverlet' in "Dictionary of Traded Goods and Commodities, 1550-1820" at British History On Line
coverture  Coverture A phrase used in Wills meaning the legal status of a married woman, considered to be under her husbands protection and authority. Prior to 1882 a married woman could not normally make a will without her husbands consent, because her property was considered to be her husbands; but there were some exceptions for example when she held specifically devised property from a previous husband. She could also be left money or property for her own use if this was specifically written into a will when the phrase 'for her own and separate use and benefit notwithstanding coverture' was often used. Examples are:- (1) The Will of John Foot (1762-1831); (2) Will of Elias Galpin (1756-1846) and (3) Will of Rebecca Bridle dated 1794, widow of Dorchester
crocke or crock crocke or Crock commonly a small earthenware pan although in south-west England the word also applied to metal pots. Picture Link
croft Land adjoining a house, often enclosed. as in 'croft of pasture' not to be confused with 'toft'
crok or (croke, crooke) crook. Usually seen as part of a kitchen or fireplace inventory. It later simply became 'hook'. It was used to suspend a cooking pot or kettle at the desired height above the fire.
"Crown Tavern" (or Crown Inn)

[Note:- See also "Old Crown Inn"]

The Crown Tavern was described as being situated 'at the turn of East Street' from c1737 to at least 1844 - and - Durngate Street from c1865 to at least 1891. This was because the Fordington end of Durngate Street took a dog leg northwards to meet the end of High East Street. This part of Durngate Street fell within the parish of Fordington in the 18th Century but was being called Salisbury Terrace by 1901.

1629 - Extract from 'Fire From Heaven' by David Underdown page 72 - " In 1629 there were thirteen licensed alesellers in the town, a number that grew to around twenty ten years later. Some of them kept large and impressive establishments like the 'George' the 'Antelope' the 'Crown' and the 'Rose'. 'The Ship' kept by William Wilson was somewhat less respectable, to judge by the number of reports of disorders ther, but such things were not unknown even at the 'George' "


1737 Burgage Rate for the Parish of Holy Trinity Dorchester (MRD Page 690) - Elizabeth Heaviland for the "Crown Inn"

1754 2 Sep - Ale House Licences - Mary Bartlett Widow of Fordington granted a victualler's Licence for the 'Crown'

1755 3 Sep - Ale House Licences - Mary Bartlett Widow of Fordington granted a victualler's Licence for the 'Crown'

1756 6 Sep - Ale House Licences - Mary Bartlett Widow of Fordington granted a victualler's Licence for the 'Crown'

1757 1 Sep - Ale House Licences - Mary Bartlett Widow of Fordington granted a victualler's Licence for the 'Crown'

1762 15 Sep - Ale House Licences - Mary Bartlett Widow of Fordington granted a victualler's Licence for the 'Crown'

1763* 14 Sep - Ale House Licences - Mary Bartlett Widow of Fordington granted a victualler's Licence for the 'Crown' Surities Leonard WINZOR and David PHIPPARD both of Forthington [*Ancestry.com incorrectly indexed as 1765]

1766 - 13 Sep - Ale House Licences - Mary Bartlett Widow of Fordington granted a victualler's Licence for the 'Crown' Surities Leonard WINZOR and David PHIPPARD both of Forthington

1767 12 Sep - Ale House Licences - Mary Bartlett Widow of Fordington granted a victualler's Licence for the 'Crown' [Note Mary Bartlett (1683-1772) Buried at FStG 12th Feb 1772 aged 89 years]

1773 15 March - Sherborne & Yeovil Mercury 'Crown Inn' Dorchester Advert - Elizabeth Relict Thomas Coombes

1829 27th Apr - Will of Mr William Bower written 14th July 1827 and proved 27th Apr 1829 left "The Crown" in trust to be sold

1829 19th Nov 1829 Dorset County Chronicle - Sale by Auction at the Antelope Inn Dorchester on Friday 18th Dec 4 lots for sale -- Lot 4 The Fee-Simple and Inheritance of the CROWN INN in the Parish of All Saints, with brewhouse, stables, and garden now in the occupation of Mr. Thomas WHITTLE, subject to a lease for one life aged 59 years.

1830 Pigots Directory, 'Crown', Publican Thomas Whittle, at the turn of East Street Dorchester [Note:- Thomas WHITTLE was buried at FStG on 2nd Dec 1838. He was the the farther-in-law of Philip PEARCE (1794-1871) who married his daughter Eliza WHITTLE (1801-1879) at All Saints Church in Dorchester on 20th June 1820 and was already the landlord of the Union Arms Inn in Fordington.]

1838 Entry in Sherborne Mercury Mon 3rd Dec 1838 DEATHS: November 27, aged 67, Mr. Thomas WHITTLE, of the Crown Inn Dorchester, for a great number of years a much respected inhabitant of the town.

1839 Roberts Directory, 'Crown', Publican E White at the turn of East Street Dorchester

1842 - Pigots Directory, Dorchester Dorset, Page 121 under Taverns and Public Houses - 'Crown' Luke Harris, turn of East Street

1844 Pigots Directory - 'Crown', Luke Harris, turn of East Street Dorchester

1865 Harrods Directory - John Blandamer - 'Crown Inn' Durngate St Dorchester

1871 Census Durngate Street 'The Crown' All Saints Parish Thomas Blandamer Head Married aged 34 Licensed Victualler born Fordington with wife 4 children, neice + 3 boarders

1875 Post Office Directory - Thomas Blandamer 'Crown' Durngate Street

1881 Census living in Durngate Street All Saints Parish - George Hayman Head married aged 58 Inn Keeper born Dorchester with wife 4 children & father-in-law+ 2 lodgers

1889 Kellys Directory, George Hayman, Durngate Street, 'Crown Public House', Commercial

1891 living Durngate St 'Crown Inn' - George Haymen Head Married aged 68 publican born Dorchester, with wife, 3 children father-in-law and lodger [Note:- George Hayman was buried at the Civic Cemetery in Dorchester on 23rd Oct 1891]

crowd-strings fiddle strings
Cuckold's Row [Fordington] Cuckold's Row : Located in East Fordington joining the east end of Fordington High Street. Known by that name since at least 1836. [Source:- Use of name in 1836 Dorset County Chronicle Tur 25 Aug 1836 Page 1 Freehold Houses for sale ]

Also refer to Entry 716 in the Parish Baptism Registers of St Georges Church Fordington made on 13th Nov 1881 (image available on ancestry.com) side line note made by the Rev. Arthur Allen Leonard (1850-1912) Vicar of St Georges Church (from 1880 to 1887) states "Cuckold's Row to be called in future 'School Street' or School Lane" Initialed by the Vicar who then starts using 'School Street'. It is however still shown as 'Cuckold's Row' in the 1886 Ordnance Survey Map. Also the next Vicar, Rev Sidney Boulter (1851-1932) who takes over in 1888 uses 'Cuckold's Row' for entries 380 and 387 in the baptism register in 1888 before also changing to School Street so it seems that some residents continued using the old name for many years after the official change. The name 'School Street' seems to have continued in general use for many entries right up to 1895 in these registers. One important thing to note from the 1886 map is that 'Cuckold's Row' only applies to the first half of this road up to where the lane cuts through from Fordington Hill. The second half of the road was then called 'Standfast Road which ran on round the corner to eventually join Fordington Cross.

There must have been a great deal of debate/confusion over the name as a lot of people also used the name Holloway Row (e.g. from entry 658 in 1881) which also appears in general use up to 1895 (e.g. to entry 949 --with one later entry 1126 in 1897) It seems likely therefore that during the period 1881 to 1895 the first half of the road was 'School Street' up to the lane and the next section from the lane to Princes Bridge took on the name 'Holloway Row'. Standfast kept its name for the rest of that street up to Fordington Cross. From as early as 1888 we start to get the 'Holloway Road' instead of 'Holloway Row' and I think dropping the word 'Row' suggests that this is when both School Street and Hollow Row lost their names to become Holloway Road which is how it is shown in the 1901 Map of Fordington.
curatrix a legal term like executrix but meaning a guardian appointed by the court to look after the interests of a minor named as a main beneficiary in a deceased persons will. Example:- When William PADDOCH died and was buried at Holy Trinity church in Dorchester on 9th July 1756 his will appointed his wife Elizabeth as executrix. His widow however failed to administer his estate and when she died Letters of Administration were granted on 27th Jan 1766 to Mary HAYDON (widow of Richard) as curatrix or guardian of his grandaughter Rachel PADDOCK in her minority. Note:- Rachel PADDOCK was baptised at Holy Trinity Church Dorchester on 7th Nov 1759 so she was still only 7 years old at the time.
curier a currier a person who curries leather. Currying was the name given to the process of stretching and finishing tanned leather, thus, rendering it supple and strong for the use of a saddler or cobbler.
curtlidge A plot of land near a house, usually a vegetable garden
dafer (or dafter, daffter) daughter
dairyman dairyman worker on, or owner of a dairy farm, or seller of dairy products such as butter and cheese
Dalwood Dalwood in Stockland is a Tithing under the Manor of Fordington [Link to John Hutchins “The History and Antiquities of the County of Dorset” published 1860-1874.]
damask (or damaske) See 'diap/diaper' below
D.C.M. D.C.M. when used in Dorchester or Fordington Parish Registers usually refers to the 'Dorset County Militia' not the Distinguished Conduct Medal. An example of this is in the West Fordington marriage register for 22nd April 1872 when James Reuben Toogood a bandsman (a drummer) in the D.C.M married Charlotte Read. His father Absolum Toogood was also a Staff Serjeant in the Militia.
death head rings A 'death head ring' is a morning or posie ring Link to pictures of posie rings
de ead Latin - 'of the same' or 'from the same place' often encountered in Letters of Administration
def (defunct) Latin - def is an abbreviated form of defunct meaning 'deceased'
deforcement; deforciant Deforcement: Legal term for the act of holding lands and tenements by force from the right owner. Deforciant is a person doing the same. Source: The New and Complete Dictionary of the English Language published by john Ash in 1775
demesne or deamense or demeasne Those parts of the land and rights of a manor that the lord retained for himself, as distinct from those used by his tenants. What might now be called the 'home farm'. Ancient Demeasne was a Manor that had been in the king's hands at the death of Edward the Confessor.
demise Demise To convey by Will or lease an estate either in Fee Simple (see Fee) or Fee Tail (See entail) or for a term of life or years. When applied to the crown of England it signifies its transmission to the next heir on the death of the soverign
derbys cloth
deses or deces deceased
deu due
diap , diaper 'Diap' is a common abbreviation used in wills for 'diaper'. Linen diaper and damask were a self patterened fine white linen that had been used in western Europe since the 15th century for tablecloths, napkins and handtowels. These linens were described in various ways but in England in the mid 16th century they were classed, notably in probate inventories, as either 'diaper' or 'damask'. This classification was descriptive rather than technical, 'diaper' and 'damask' being differentiated solely by the complexity of the pattern: small repeat patterns often of a geometrical form were described as 'diaper' and figurative patterns with longer repeats as 'damasks'. Source The Grove Encyclopedia of materials and techniques in Art
die Latin for: 'day' or 'day of ' -- often encountered as 'die solis' [meaning Sunday]
doe do

"The Dolphin Inn"


[probably previously named The Black Horse Inn 1830-1851.]

The Dolphin Inn is situated in All Saints Parish in Church Lane Dorchester next to Wheatstones Almshouses.

1851 Census shows 'The Dolphin Inn' in Church Lane All Saints Parish; run by Charles Parsons Innkeeper married aged 42 born Sopley Hampshire, with wife & 2 lodgers

1852 Slaters Directory 'Dolphin Inn' - Charles Parsons, Church Street

1861 Census living in Church Street All Saints Parish - John Shiner Head Married aged 38 Victualler born Cattistock with wife 3 children and sister in law

1865 Harrods Directory - John Shiner, 'Dolphin' Church Street

1871 Census living at "Dolphin" Church Street All Saints Parish - John Shiner Head Married Aged 48 Licensed Victualler born Cattistock, with wife & 6 children

1875 Post Office Directory - William Crocker 'Dolphin' Church Street

1881 Census [Note:- There is a William HJ Crocker living in Church St but shown as a cooper by trade, with his wife and 7 children + 1 boarder?]

1889 Kellys Directory - Charles Vallens, Church Street, 'Dolphin Public House' - also blacksmith, Bell Street, Commercial

1891 Census living at Church Street, 'Dolphin Inn' Charles Vallens, Head Married, aged 48 Licensed Victualler born Long Bredy Dorset, with wife, daughter & 4 lodgers and a servant

1895 Kellys Directory - Charles Vallens, 'Dolphin Public House', 9 Church Street, - also a blacksmith, Bell Street

1915 Kellys Directory - George Board, Church Street 'Dolphin Public House'

D.O.M. D.O.M. often heads memorials in churches. It stands for Deo optimo maximo, and is often abbreviated to 'D.O.M.' or 'Deo Opt. Max'. It is a Latin Phrase which means "to the greatest and best God" or "to God, most good, most great"
"Dorchester Arms" 1861 Census living at North Square, 'Dorchester Arms' St Peters Parish Dorchester - James Miles Head Married Aged 32 Victualler born Maiden newton Dorset - with wife 2 sons 1 servant 5 lodgers

1871 Census living at North Square 'Dorchester Arms' St Peters Parish - Henry Landscheit Head Married Aged 52 Inn Keeper born Dorchester with wife, & possibly a boarder a man his wife and stepdaughter.

1875 Post Office Directory - Henry Landscheitt 'Dorchester Arms' North Square

1889 Kellys Directory, John Vatcher, North Square 'Dorchester Arms Public House', Commercial

1891 Census living at North Square 'Dorchester Arms' - John Vatcher Head Married aged 38 Publican born Abbey Milton Dorset, with wife daughter nephew and servant.
Dorchester Steam Laundry Dorchester Steam Laundry is actually in West Fordington and fronts onto the north side of Bridport Road just before Sydney Terrace and the Railway Bridge and the Infantry Barracks- See the 1886 West Fordington Map
dower A widows share for life of her husbands estate - dower house - house intended as the residence of a widow, typically one near the nmain house on her late husbands estate
dowlis, dowlas Dowlis was a course linen cloth made at Doulas near Brest in France and imported in the 17th century through the port of Weymouth by Dorchester Merchants. Joan Christopher (1704-1780) my 6th great grandmother had clothing made for her from dowlis in Dec 1762 which was paid for by the Obverseers of the Poor at Cheselbourne.
Source: Page 38 Studies in Dorset History by Maureen Weinstock M.A.,F.R.Hist.S published by Longmans (Dorchester) 1953
dower The portion to which a widow was entitled of the estate of her late husband for her subsistence and the education of their children. By Common Law it was fixed at one-third, but this could be over-ruled by the customary law of the manor (or other area) to one-quarter or one half, or his whole estate. In connection with copyhold property, the last mentioned right was called 'Freebench'. Dower is also used of a daughter's portion of inheritance. Dower (Latin dotarium) is not to be confused with Dowry.
dowry was the property in land or money that a wife brought to her husband at their marriage. This may have been given her by her father, or it may have been property already in her possession by inheritance. Dowry (Latin maritagium) is not to be confused with Dower
drawer a tapster or waiter
dredge corn mixture of wheat and barley or another corn such as oats. Example will of John BUSHROD (d.1590) Senior a husbandman of Sherborne and father of Richard Bushrod (1576-1628) of Dorchester
Drimpton Drimpton is a hamlet in Broadwindsor Parish and a chapel dedicated to St Mary was consecrated in 1861. A separate register exists for Drimpton but remained with the parish rather than lodged at the DHC
drinking vessels 17th Century 17th Century Drinking Vessels. Water being generally undrinkable the stable 17th century drink for all classes was ale. Ale made from the 1st mash, which had a stronger alcoholic content, was generally reserved for men, woman drank from the 2nd mash which was slightly weaker and children from the third the weakest of all. This system was followed for many generations as the brewing process killed germs.

Water particularly in towns carried infection as human waste was more often than not disposed of in cess pits under the houses and the sewage leaked into the water supply. This was still a problem in the mid 19th century - See the biography of Rev Henry Moule and page down to his invention of the dry earth closest for more background.

The better off would have wine or even spirits. Dorchester Inventories seldom refer to any kind of drinking vessel and I can only assume that this is because they were in common use and generally considered of little intrinsic value. As such they are probably included in the reference often made to "other lumber". In general use were Goblets, Mugs, Jugs or Tankards. Tankards, differ from mugs in being lidded, and were made in vast numbers from 1660 - 1780. As taste turned from ale to wine and spirits, tankards began to lose their popularity. Early tankards are straight-sided and late 17th-century examples are sometimes chased or decorated.
driping pan or drippynge pann dripping pan - pan placed below meat on a revolving spit to catch the drips
Druce Druce is a hamlet north of Puddletown
"Duke of Wellington" 1861 Census 61 High West Street Henry Gale Head Married aged 47 Licensed Victualler employing 1 man, born Winterborne Abbas withwife Mary 2 daughters, 2 servants , 7 Lodgers

1871 Census living at 61 High West Street "Duke of Wellington" Holy Trinity Parish - Charles Meech Head Married aged 51 Landlord of an Inn born Glanville Wootton Dorset, with wife, 2 daughters, mother, servant 7 lodgers

1875 Post Office Directory - Charles Meech 'Duke of Wellington' 61 High West Street Dorchester

dungpot Dungpot - Agricultural - a large pot for carrying manure out to the fields
dust bed (or doust bed)

Evident in a number of Dorchester & Fordington Inventories (usually not the main bed) Dust beds are frequently shown in smaller rooms/ store rooms and mainly on farms:   I have used the definition given by Phillimore;  "bed-tick mattress filled with chaff". I have also seen 'dust pillow'. [Thanks to Peter Fullalove for this definition]

duxit Latin often found in Visitations meaning for example 'he led her' so 'Duxit in matrimonium' he led her into matrimony.
East Chaldon East Chaldon is a the Parsh of Chandon Herring
East Parade East Parade :- Was previously called 'London Road' and is simply the extension of the road leading eastwards out of Dorchester changing from the east end of 'High East Street' into the 'London Road' after the Swan Bridge. This can ne seen on the 1886 Ordnance Survey Map of Fordington. It had changed to 'East Parade' by 1892 and is shown on the 1901 Ordnance Survey Map of East Dorchester. and Fordington. On the 1771 Map of Dorchester it is simply referred to as "The Road to London".
East Street East Street in the Parish of Fordington was renamed as Loud's Road between 1881 and 1891
Easter Day The most important movable Feast is Easter Day and a separate listing can be accessed via the link provided which also lists the dates of other movable feasts which as determined from Easter Daye
eftsoons a second time
ejusdem (abbrev. eju) ejusdem is latin for - the same and is sometimes abbreviated to 'eju'
entail (In tays) Entail was originated by the Statute De Denis Conditionalibus of Edward I. An owner of lands Fee Simple (Absolute: see Fee) could by a grant of land to a person 'and the heirs of his body' legally begotten' tie up land in one family. Such land was called Estate Tail, and the mode on tenure 'Fee Tail' Each successor would enjoy only a life interest in it, but it would pass to his heirs on the principle of progeniture. If ever the the direct issue of the original grantee died out, the landrevertedto the grantor or his heirs. Leases of entailed land became void on the death of the landlord who was a tenant in tail. Debts were not chargeable on such land. Heirs could not be disinherited. In cases of treason (until HenryVII) or other offences, such land could not be forfeited to the Crown for longer than the tenant's life, though it did escheat to the lord. In 1833 any tenant in tail was allowed to break the entail by deed enrolled in the Court of Chancery.
eod ann abbreviated latin for eodem annus - in the same year
Eodem die (abbrev. Eod die) Latin for:- on the same day
estovers estovers is the right to take wood from land especially land of which one is a tenant or lessee. "they exercised their rights of common and estovers of dead and dry wood in the forest"
estreat estreat (of the law) - enforce the the forfeit of ( a surity for bail or other recognizance)
et Latin = and
(a symbol meaning) etc Et Cetera - meaning 'and other things' or 'and so forth'. Added here as often included in Wills as a funny symbol which looks like a backward facing rounded 'E' or 'Ʒ' followed by a 't' e.g. 'Ʒt' both surrounded by a capital C .
"The Exchequer" 1737 Burgage Rate for the Parish of All Saints in Dorchester (MRD Page 694 indexed under 'Exchequer Inn') shows that John Lilly was charged 6 pence for his house (The Exchequer)

"Exhibition Hotel"

Exhibition Hotel Fordington
1861 Census living at 'Exhibition Hotel' Mill Street East Fordington - Thomas B Greening Head Married aged 30 Victualler born Dorchester, with wife 4 servants, 3 lodgers

1865 Harrodfs Directory - Edward Diamond 'Exhibition Hotel' East Fordington

1871 Census living at 'Exhibition Hotel' Mill Street East Fordington - Richard Davis Head Married aged 56 Builder employing 8 men, with wife Ann Davis 2 sons, nurse, 2 servants

1875 Post Office Directory - Richard Davis, 'Exhibition Hotel', East Parade East Fordington

1881 Census living at East Parade 'Exhibition Hotel' East Fordington - Richard Davis Head Married aged 66 Innkeeper & Builder born Fordington, with wife Ann Davis & servant

1891 Census living at London Road 'Exhibition Hotel' Fordington - John Wilmott Head Married aged 45 Shoeing Smith & Licensed Victualler, born Cerne Abbas, with wife, 4 children, visitor, 3 Boarders

1893 17th July - Henry David Nash aged 53 who was a lodger at the 'Exhibition Hotel' Fordington died there and was buried at FStG Church in Fordington

1895 Kellys Directory - Henry Joseph Barsted 'Exhibition Hotel', Fordington & horse breaker, 71 East Parade.

1900 25 Apr - St George Baptisms - George & Ada Panchen, abode 'Exhibition Hotel' Fordington Licensed Victualler

extraparochial situate so as not to be included in any parish. (Source The new and complete dictionary of the English language: by John Ash published 1775) Example at Dorchester is the marriage of 'Matthew GARLAND of Watercomb an Extraparochial Place & Elizabeth PRESTLY of the parish of Holy Trinity in Dorchester 07-Jan 1759' [Note:-In 1870-72, John Marius Wilson's Imperial Gazetteer of England and Wales described Watercombe as " an extra-parochial tract in Weymouth district, Dorset; 5½ miles SE of Dorchester. Pop., 37. Houses, 7"]
eyron or (eyern,) iron, as in andeyrons for andirons or eyron candlestickes
fagot (or ffaggott) A bundle of sticks bound together for the fire
fardle(s) old french for a bundle(s) As in fardles of derbys (bundles of cloth quoted in William Whiteways diary entry for 30 Dec 1633)
farrier A person who shoes horses also 'one who professes to cure the diseases of horses (1775 dictionary)'

farthing &

Farthinghold

Farthing: Originally the quarter of anything but in time applied exclusively to a quarter penn. Fathinghold [fathing land] was a quarter of yardland which was an area of about thirty acres. Source:-The Dictionary of Genealogy by Terrick VH Fitzhugh. Clearly there was no exact measurement as:-

Fathing Hold : In Fordington this referred to a plot withinin the 3,097 acres of Fordington Fields which according to 'Notes on Fordington Manor' by Henry Joseph Moule contained between 13 and 15 acres of land and usually had a tenement. Links : Tithe Map of Fordington - 1844 showing plots : Surveys of Tenant Plots in 1600:    1615:   1650 which show that some farthingholds were actually above 15 acres

fate or fatehorse; ffatehorsses (also vathorse) vat or vat stand often used to brew ale [Example Will of Katherine ADYN widow of Dorchester dated 14th Feb 1569 and proved 5th May 1570 - She left "the furnace standing in the kitchen and brewing fate thereunto belonging etc - also Will Hamnet White of Fordington Inventory 1633]
feast days Feast or Fast Days: Many festival and fasts were often used to date events. See Calendar above and separate entry above for Christian Festivals
featherbed or (father bed) a “quilt” fabric bag (tick) filled with feathers. Often accompanied by a matching bolster
fee Fee The expression 'in fee' means 'hereditarily', and 'in fee male' means through the male line of descent. A Fee Simple was a freehold estate in land which passed at death to the common law heir. For Fee Tail see entail. Fee Farm was a fixed annual rent charge payable to the king by chartered boroughs
fellmonger (or velmonger) One whose business it is to part the wool from pelts, one who deals in sheepskins. Examples: William Sparks the elder (1665 - 1741/2) Fellmonger of Fordington (see his transcribed will) also Simeon Furber Scard who married Jane Old Curtis at Holy Trinity Church in Dorchester on 8th April 1861 is described as a fellmonger when he married and later a farmer.
feodary a feudal tenant. see also 'feudalism'.
feoffee a trustee invested with a freehold estate to hold in possession for a purpose typically a charitable one. In Dorchester there were for example "Feoffees" elected to administer endowments and funds for the Free School
fetch (fech, ffeches) See vetch
feudalism the dominant social system in medieval Europe, in which the nobility held lands from the Crown in exchange for military service, and vassals were in turn tenants of the nobles, while the peasants (villeins or serfs) were obliged to live on their Lord's land and give him homage, labour, and a share of the produce, notionally in exchange for military protection.
Fforthington: or (Fording; Fordinge) Parish of Fordington in Dorset
ffirepan iron tray beneath a grate to catch the ashes
ffirepike (ffyrepicke, fyer picke, fyre pich) An implement used for stiring or making up a fire, sometimes abbreviated as in 'a pich shovel & tonges'
ffireshole or fyreskomar fire shovel
fflask flask in which to carry gunpowder
'ffurnace pann' or ('fornace pann' ; 'ffurnispan'; 'ffurnes pan'; furnes pan) furnace pan - Some references to it being used to cook beef (when it was placed in the kitchen with other items and made of brass) but may generally be reference to a vessel for heating water for washing or more likely boiling the wort in brewing as several times listed next to brewing equipment.
filia [abbrev: fil] Filia is Latin daughter
filius [abbrev: fil] Filius is Latin for son
fine not a penalty as in modern English but refers to the sum of money paid or due; for example to the Lord of the Manor
Firedog (or ffyerdogge) Firedog is like an andier, but generally smaller less ornamental. They were used to support wood buring in a hearth Picture Link
firkin (or fyrkin) firkin: 'The forth part of a barrel, nine gallons, any small vessel' source 'The New and Complete Dictionary of the English Language by John Ash in two volumes published by Edward and Charles Dilly in the Poultry and R Baldwin in Pater Noster Row London in the year MDCCLXXV [1775]' ALSO Oxford Dictionary of English originally published 1998 reprinted 2006. "a small cask formerly used for liquids, butter or fish"
fifth monarchy Fifth Monarchists or Fifth Momonarchy men were a quasi-political religious movement which was prominent from 1649-61 Link to more information.
flesh iron (flesh poke, flesh pike) see iron flesh
flitch or (flicke; flyck; flytch, ffliche) the side of an animal, usually bacon, cured and commonly hung from the roof or ceiling
flock bed flock-bed was a mattress filled with bits and pieces of wool (flock) or possibly carded wool
fluke or (fflucke, ffluck) mainly used in the context of bedding such as 'fluke bed' (which I cant trace as a type of bed) or 'ffluck bolster' which is clearly a bolster filled with fluck so I have assumed this is a local pronunciation for 'flock' see 'flock bed' above.
forme see fourme
Forthington (Fforthington) an old form of 'Fordington' as in 'the pish of Forthington' In the Parish of Fordington
Fordington Brewery

Fordington Brewery was owned by William BOWER Esq and when he died in 1829 was sold forming part of Lot 1 of sale particulars

1837 -11th May Dorset County Chronicle : FORDINGTON within the Borough of DORCHESTER, To be sold by Auction (In lots with immediate possession by M BAKER) At the Kings Arms Inn in Dorchester on Thursday the 18th day of May 1837 at Four O'Clock in the afternoon (subject to such conditions as will then and there provided) THE FORDINGTON BREWERY together with the cottage thereto adjoining and gardens belonging to the same, late the property of William BOWER Esq deceased. The above property is held by Copy of a Court Roll of the Manor of Fordington for three healthy lives, and is pleasantly situated adjoining Salisbury Field in the said parish. The Buildingsmay at a trifling expenses be converted into excellent dwelling houses and offer an eligible and advantageous investment for Builders Capitalists and others. For further particulars and inspection of the Plan of the intended lots apply to Mr FISHER also to Mr BRIDGE SolicitorDorchester or the Auctioneer. Mr Anthony TREW onthe spot will have the keys of and show the premises. All letters to be postr paid.Dated 4th May 1837

Fordington Corn Mill Fordington Corn Mill is situated at Prince's Bridge with Tubbs Road leading north and Standfast Road leading South - see 1901 OS Map of East Fordington
Fordington GreenFordington Green : situated directly opposite St George Church in Fordington

Fordington House

1886 Map of Fordington (center of map just above the railway on King Street prior to junction with Icen Way)

Fordington House is situated in King Street

Extract from British History On Line at - https://www.british-history.ac.uk/rchme/dorset/vol2/pp104-132

    Fordington House, some 330 yds. S. of St. George's church, of two storeys and attics, is of brick partly stuccoed and has slate-covered roofs. The house was built in the second half of the 18th century, and a substantial W. wing was added to it in the early 19th century. The original house has been much altered, having had a modern pedimented feature added to the S. front and a modern portico to the N.; the interior has been remodelled to form flats.

    The N. front is of brick laid in header bond and in five bays with a central doorway and plain sash windows; the doorway has a moulded architrave and side brackets carrying a pedimental hood. The eaves cornice is modern. The S. front is rendered and has a modern eaves cornice and pediment. The W. wing, rendered in stucco, has a symmetrical W. elevation in five bays with plain sash windows; before it is a verandah with trellis standards linked to form an arcade and a curved roof. Inside the wing are early 19th-century ceiling cornices and doorways in the hall with reeded architraves with lions' masks on square panels at the angles.

    The grounds are enclosed by rubble walls containing a main entrance from Icen Way to the N. with ashlar gate piers surmounted by ball finials and with curved brick wing walls. A Stable building in Athelstan Road to the S.E. may have been connected with Fordington House. It is of two storeys, of rubble with brick dressings and probably of the early 19th century.

1841 - Hayne, John - Marriage:- On 2nd Instant at Fordington by the Rev John HAYNE , Lieutenant Richard Forest COLE; of Her Majesties 6th Regiment of foot; only son of Lieutenant Colonel COLE formerly of the 81st Regiment half pay unattached, to Mary Ann second daughter of John HAYNE of Fordington House Esq Dorchester County of Dorset. -- Times -- Also Hampshire Telegraph and Sussex Chronicle etc (Portsmouth, England), Monday, October 11, 1841; Issue 2192

1852 - Rev.Campbell Fordington House - Slaters Street Directory 1852

1854 - Sparks Family - SALE:--- Papers concerning sale of the Fordington house owned by Sparks family; agreement of Alexander STEEN, Samuel HILL and Mary TAYNTOR to this. - Dorset History Center Archive Ref D/SBS/E9

1861 - Hayne, Elizabeth spinster daughter of John Hayne (1779-1868) recorded as of Fordingon House buried at FStG 5th Oct 1861 [Note:- In the 1861 Census she is with the family simply recorded as living in King Street so I have added a note to the 1861 Census Her father is recorded as being a wholesale grocer & soap boiler and a farmer of 350 acres employing 20 men and boys]

1864 - Hayne, Elizabeth Ridge daughter of Robert Hayne described as of Fordington House baptised at St Georges church Fordington

1865 - Smith, Captain Edward Heathcote, Fordington House - Harrods Street Directory 1865

1868 - Hayne, Robert son of Robert Hayne dsecribed as of Fordington House baptised at St Georges church Fordington.

1871 - Hayne, Robert, King Street Fordington House - Robert Hayne head married aged 54 wholesale grocer sundowner employing 11 men 6 boys 1 wonam with wife Mary Ann 2 children + 3 servants- 1871 Census [Note:- Haynes Soap & candle Factory & Grocery Store run by William Withyman]

1873 - Williams, Rev Hubert Brymer - bankrupt said " I went into the church about 6 years ago --- I applied for the living at Charminster --- our time was up at Fordington House 31st October ---- I know of Emma COX my servant coming to dorchester to claim things --- At Fordington I had another servant called SAMSON --- Don't know of any goods being removed by a man of Fordington called CLARK. i had no furniture at Fordington house (rented) Meeting adjourned to 19th Inst. Source:: The Derby Mercury (Derby, England), Wednesday, December 10, 1873; Issue 8316

1875 - Seymour, Miss Fordington House - Post Office Street Directory 1875 - DEATH:- on Monday 11th October at Fordington House Dorchester Avice wife of John Gunning Seymor Esq of the County of Dorset --- Times. Also St Georges Church Burials Avice Seymour entry 508 buried 15th Oct 1875 aged 59

1876 - White, Mary - DEATH: - on 29th Sep at Fordington House Dorchester aged 84 years Mary White She had lived more than 60 years in the service of the late Rev G BIRCH of Cheselborne Dorset -- Times

1879 - Mortgage G Stevens and F Edser to Katherine Jane Seymour of Fordington House , Dorchester County of Dorset Spinster - held at London Metropolitan Archives Ref A/CSC/3052/5

1880 - Mortgage G Stevens and F Edser to Katherine Jane Seymour of Fordington House , Dorchester County of Dorset Spinster - held at London Metropolitan Archives Ref A/CSC/3071/5 and A/CSC/3072/5

1881 - Boyes, Mary Catherine Fordington House Head married aged 34 Majors wife with 2 children, brother & sister-in-laws and 3 servants - 1881 Census
[Note:- Fordington Farm House is now separately listed still in possession of Robert Hayne aged 56 now a farmer of 435 acresemploying 21 labourers]

1886 - Fordington House - 1886 Map of Fordington (center of map just above the railway on King Street prior to junction with Icen Way

1889 - Law; Cecil Henry (Capt); Fordington House, Adjutant 1st Vol Batt. Dorset Reg.; Private Residents -  Kellys Street Directory 1889

1891 - Hayne, Robert Fordington House Head Married aged 74 Farmer with wife and son Robert and 2 servants [Next premises Haynes Soap Works run by Joseph Franklin

1895 - Hayne Robert, Fordington House, (2nd entry farmer) - Kellys Street Directory 1895

1901 - Fordington House no longer named but buildings in the same place - 1901 Map of Fordington

1915 - Hayne, Robert, Fordington House - Kellys Street Directory 1915

Fordington Liberty The Parish of Fordington fell within Fordington Liberty. This Liberty also included the parishes of Hermitage, Minterne Magna (part), and Stockland (part). A liberty was an English unit originating in the Middle Ages, traditionally defined as an area in which regalian right (i.e. The Kings right) was revoked and where the land was held by a mesne lord (i.e. an area in which rights reserved to the king had been devolved into private hands). It later became a unit of local government administration. Liberties were areas of widely variable extent which were independent of the usual system of hundreds and boroughs for a number of different reasons, usually to do with peculiarities of tenure. Because of their tenurial rather than geographical origin, the areas covered by liberties could either be widely scattered across a county or limited to an area smaller than a single parish: an example of the former is Fordington Liberty, and of the latter, the Liberty of Waybayouse, both in Dorset.
foss [fosse] A long narrow trenchor excavation, especially in a fortification. The Roman wall around Dorchester included a foss to increase the height of the defensive wall.
foure or (ffoure; fowre) four (so fowtte for example is forty)
fourme(s) or forme(s) or fforme or furme(s) form - a long seat without a back often used with a tableboard on a trestle Picture Link "Form" Late 17th Century. Example Will of John RASKER 1661 of Fordington
frank-almoigne A tenure by which a religious corporation holds lands given to them and their successors forever, usually on condition of praying for the soul of the donor and his heirs; - called also tenure by free alms
F.R.C.S. Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons (FRCS) it is a professional qualification enabling the individual to practise as a senior surgeon in Ireland or the United Kingdom.
Frek's Passage A passage which ran off 'West Back Street' in the parish of Holy Trinity Dorchester. 'West Back Street' has since been renamed 'Princess Street'
Friar Waddon & Friar Waddon Huish Friar Waddon and Friar Waddon Huish are homesteads within the parish of Portesham in Dorset
Friary Lane Originally Priory Lane: Friary Lane runs from North Square to connect to High East Street (See 1886 Map of Dorchester], although it used to include what later became Friary Hill [See 1771 Map of Dorchester].
Friary Mills

Location:- Best seen in the 1886 Map of Dorchester at the end of Friary Hill and then The 1771 Map of Dorchester The "N" refers to 'Fryery Lane' and the Mill is the small building fording the river.

Possession:- It appears to have been part of the original Priory Follow link and note the final entry refers to Francis John Browne Esq sold it to William HENNING. In 1616 it was clearly in the possession of John HENNING (1532-1616) Follow link to transcription of his Will which leaves a £40 annuity out of the rents from the property to his daughter Ann the wife of William Golsey for her life and the property left to his son Robert HENNING when he died.

frith underwood or brushwood [Link to comments about frith under 'Observations in the Survey of Fordington Manor 1615' where it sometimes also meant 'pasture'
Frome [Froome] - River Frome River Frome - often spelt Froome in older records. The river rises in the Dorset Downs at Evershot, passes through Maiden Newton, Dorchester, West Stafford and Woodsford. At Wareham it and the River Piddle, also known as the River Trent, flow into Poole Harbour via the Wareham Channel. It gave its name to several places in the Froome Valley and along its course such as Frome St Quentin and Frome Vauchurch and Chilfrome. References in Dorchester & Fordington records to people being from "Froome" however generally refers to the area North of the River Frome, but still within the parish of Holy Trinity known as Cokers Frome or Frome Whitfield or Frome wood.

Link to waterclour painting by  Henry Joseph Moule (1825-1904) of the River Frome Also :- Image 2 : Many more of his paintings include views of River Frome and can be viewed on the watercolour.org website.
Frome Whitfield A hamlet within the parish of Holy Trinity. By road today it lies 1.6 miles north of Dorchester but prior to the 20th Century it was accessed across the fields by cart tracks and was about a mile. The Hamlet of Course like many others takes it name from the River Frome that runs between the hamlet and Dorchester and was often just referred to as Whitfield or Whitefield.
Note:- From British History on Line Website "House of Lords Journal - 25th May 1610 - Parsonage and Parish of Frome Whitfield united to the Parish of The Holy Trinity in Dorchester. The Bill, intituled, An Act for the uniting of the Parsonage and decayed Parish of Frome Whitfeild, in the County of Dorset, to the Parsonage and Parish of The Holy Trinity in Dorchester, in the said County, was returned into the House, by the Lord Privy Seal, one of the Committees, with an Addition or Amendment". This is also referred to in 'The History and Antiquities of the County of Dorset' (3rd Edition published 1868 - page392) by John Hutchins

Also from page 402 an entry in the Churchwarden Accounts for the parish of Holy Trinity for the year 1688, " A grant to Lord HOLLIS [i.e.  Denzil HOLLES (1599-1680) ] , in consideration of his procuring the junction of the estate of Frome Whitfield to the parish of Holy Trinity, two pews'
frow (froe) a cleaving tool with a handle at right angles to the blade used for splitting cask staves and shingles
fuit Latin - suggests a past tense = has been erat = was est = is
fuller A cloth worker who cleansed and thickened the cloth, called a tucker in the west country
fulling mill From the medieval period, the fulling of cloth often was undertaken in a water mill, known as a fulling mill. In these, the cloth was beaten with wooden hammers, known as fulling stocks or fulling hammers. Fulling stocks were of two kinds, falling stocks (operating vertically) that were used only for scouring, and driving or hanging stocks. In both cases the machinery was operated by cams on the shaft of a waterwheel or on a tappet wheel, which lifted the hammer. Driving stocks were pivotted so that the foot (the head of the hammer) struck the cloth almost horizontally. The stock had a tub holding the liquor and cloth. This was somewhat rounded on the side away from the hammer, so that the cloth gradually turned, ensuring that all parts of it were milled evenly. However, the cloth was taken out about every two hours to undo plaits and wrinkles. The 'foot' was approximately triangular in shape, with notches to assist the turning of the cloth.
furze (furse , ferhes, fatches) gorse or whin used in heating bread ovens - (Source A Glossary of Household, Farming and Trade Terms from Probate Inventories by Rosemary Milward pub by Derbyshire Record Society)
fustian (fustian weaver) A kind of cloth made of cotton ; or cotton and linen; one who produced a thick course cloth -- blanket made of coarse linen fustian
fyer fire
ganny a turkey
Galton Galton is a hamlet within the Parish of Owermoigne Dorset
gauger A 'gauger' in 18th & 19th centuries was another name for an exciseman working for HM Customs. The 1775 Dictionary definition states "Guager - One who measures vessels or one who measures by a gauge"
Gen or Gen all 'Gen' with a tail arching back over the top of the letter indicating the word has been abbreviated. Often used in Quarter Session Records often followed by 'all'. Abbreviation for 'General' as in 'General Quater Session'
geney a heron
"George Inn" The George Inn is situated in the parish of St Peters in Dorchester on the North side of High West Street

1577 - George Robynson's Charter (MRD Page 704/5) Feoffment by Robert Palmer of Dorchester, of vacant land on the west side of the 'George Inn', on the north side of High West Street, on the east / a burgage now in the tenure of said George Robynson, and on the south of stable of the 'George Inn'. To hold of the chief Lords, paying rent of three pence for all services. Warrenty 20th Aug 19. Elizabeth I [1577]-

1613 - 6th Aug - Extract 'Fire from Heaven' by David Underdown page 2 - " For the hot and weary traveller the most alluring attractions [in Dorchester] would have been its Inns and Taverns- 'The George' on High West Street, next to St Peters church, 'The Antelope' round the corner in South street, a dozen others -with their promise of rest and cool refreshment."

1620, April 30. A lease was granted to Margarett Chubb, widow of three messuages, called 'The George', lying together in the parish of St. Peter's, on north side of High West Street, between the Church and Churchyard of St. Peter's on the east and the dwelling house of Richard BUSHROD [BUSHRODE] on the west source MRD.

1629 - Extract from 'Fire From Heaven' by David Underdown page 72 - " In 1629 there were thirteen licensed alesellers in the town, a number that grew to around twenty ten years later. Some of them kept large and impressive establishments like the 'George' the 'Antelope' the 'Crown' and the 'Rose'. 'The Ship' kept by William Wilson was somewhat less respectable, to judge by the number of reports of disorders ther, but such things were not unknown even at the 'George' "

1640, June 10th "Reported that the dye house and faggot ricks there and in the 'George' backside are exceedingly dangerous for fire. Ordered the ricks to be removed. C12 (MRD page 540)

1644, 31st Oct - Brief mention in the will of Mr John Allambridge Clothier of Dorchester - son John to inherit a property 'next to and adjoining the Tavern called 'The George' ------

1652, March 26 - ----Ref to --- 'out of the sale of the old Trinity Parsonage house, the barn adjoining, and the garden behind the 'George' with the passage forth into the back lane belonging to the 'George'. -----(MRD 611)

1658, September 24th "It was agreed that Mr Mayor should be desired to write to Mr Davidge, that this company have resolved to lay a Rent charge of five pounds a year clear of all charges upon the "George Inn" which is the town land, in consideration of the hundred pounds given to the town by Mr. John Hill for five pounds a year exhibition for a poor scholar of this town to be maintained in the University. (MRD Page 578)

1660 Juliana Perkins by her will dated 19th January 1656, gave to the poor of the three parishes of Dorchester £100, to remain as a stock for ever, which money was laid out in the purchase of a rent-charge, to be issuing out of certain messuages, burgages, tenements, called by the name of 'The George', in Dorchester, and at the date of the indenture, 9th April 1660 , in the tenure of John COBB Innkeeper. Source John Hutchins page 399. Also Note John COBB of St Peters Parish in Dorchester was buried there 30th July 1667.]

1670, 19th & 22nd August - Inventory at 'the George' - Power of Attorney from the Corporation of Dorchester to William Hasselbury and Henry Daw, Serjeants of the Borough and Robert COLSTON and Thomas COOPER of the same, gent to enter the 'George' in St Peters Parish, and make an Inventory of the fixtures, - Inventory made 22 Aug 1670

1737 Burgage Rate for the Parish of St Peters in Dorchester (MRD Page 692) - Mr Thomas Loder's House ( The George Inn)

1748 In a listing of Rental of Town Burgages etc taken in 1780 is reference to a Lessee Mr Robert Loder- 1748 paying £10 rent for 'The George Inn' in St Peters Parish (MRD Page 700)

1766 July 22. In a lease of a corner shop in St. Peter's parish, on north side of High West Street, the boundaries are a tenement formerly called the 'George Inn' on west, and St. Peter's Churchyard on north. This inn is frequently mentioned.

1775 From a survey of rental and several burgages, tenements and lands belonging to the corporation - Ref to a lease given to Mr Christopher Arden in 1755 2 shillings and 6 pence rent for garden heretofore used by occupiers of the 'George Inn' on south side of Pease Lasne, St Peters Parish.

1805 Thomas JOHNSON is referred to as an Innholder in the Will of his brother-in-law James BONNETT written on the 9th Feb 1805. As far as I know he remained there until his death in 1831 and the first ever street directory published for Dorchester, Pigots Directory published in 1830, confirms this to have been the George Inn as shown below.

1830 Pigots Directory, 'George', Publican Thomas Johnson, High West Street, Dorchester

1839 Roberts Directory, Publican John Wood, High East? Street Dorchester

1841 Census living at High West Street St Peters Parish - John Wood aged 60 to 64 a Publican with wife, 2 children + 2 servants & probably a lodging family

1842 Pigots Directory, Dorchester Dorset, Page 121 under Taverns and Public Houses - 'George' John Wood, High West Street

1844 Pigots Directory - 'George', John Wood, High West Street Dorchester

1851 Census living at High West Street 'George Inn' St Peters Parish - Thomas Durden Head Married aged 54 Victualler born Mintern Magna with wife, daughter, sister-in-law, + 2 servants, lodger and guest [Note:- In 1841 Census as Innkeeper of the Sun Inn at Lower Burton]

1852 Slaters Directory, 'George' - Thomas Durden, High West street

1861 Census Living at 'George Inn' 7 High Street St Peters Parish Dorchester - Thomas Read Loveless Head married Aged 42 Licensed Victualler born Bincombe Dorset, with wife, 2 children, 2 servants, and a lodger

1865 Harrods Directory - Thomas R Loveless 'George Inn' High West Street.

1871 Census living at 7 High West Street 'George Inn' St Peters Parish - Harry Read Head married Aged 38 Licensed Victualler born Upway with wife, 3 children, 2 servants, 3 lodgers

1875 Post Office Directory - Harry Read, 'George Inn', High West Street

1881 Census living at 61 High West St, 'George Inn', Charles Irish, head married aged 49 Hotel Proprietor, with wife 3 children, son-in-law, servant & 14 boarders (11 of which were Militia Men)
gighouse a gig was a one horse drawn two whelled carriage suspended at the rear by leather starps attached to whip springs. Thought to have originated circa 1790 they were very popular as they were inexpensive compared to other modes of transport and reasonably comfortable. Gigs were also easy to handle and therefore suited to poor roads and because they were light moved quite quickly if road conditions were good so became a favourite mode of transport between local villages. A gighouse was a miniture form of coachouse that was an adjunct to a middle class home in which a gig was kept when not in use.
glebe land The land held by a beneficed clergyman. Glebe Terriers describe the boundaries of such land and mention the holders of lands adjoining.
gossip or gossippe relation one who is sponsor for a child at the font [godson - goddaughter]. Source:- The new and complete Dictionary of the Enlish Language by John Ash Vol 1 Published London 1775 Example Will of Henry DERBY of Beaminster dated 8 Mar 1620. See William Deby biography
gould (or goulde) gold
goune (or gound) gown
Grampound House 'Grampound House' in Fordington was re-named 'Grove House' see Holy Trinity Baptism Register baptism of Eliza Ann daughter of William Lewis HENNING Esq and his wife Rose Ann dated 21st dec 1830
"Great Western Hotel" (or "Great Western Inn" or "Great Western Railway Hotel")



Hotel as it was after it's remodeling in 1876

Picture by:- Simon House - Taken 1980

The Great Western Hotel was situated on Great Western Road and was originally owned by the Duchy of Cornwall. This pub was closed in 1989 and has since been demolished.

The Great Western Railway Station was opened on 20th Jan 1857. The Hotel was situated just south of the 'Nursery' not far from the Great Western Railway Station itself right at the cross roads of Union Road, Great Western Road, Maumbery Road and Cornwall Road and is marked on the 1886 Map of Dorchester as 'G.W.Hotel.' [You may need to zoom in on your browser to see greater detail]

1858 1st July - Article Dorset County Chronicle re Death of Benjamin CROSSMAN - Inquest held at the 'Great Western Hotel' Ben Crossman was buried at FStG Church 28th June 1858

1861 Census - Great western Hotel next to Grove House - Hotel Keeper Thomas Grigg (1809-1880) age 50, with wife Mary Ann age 50; servant + nephew Samuel Grigg age 22 blacksmithand 2 lodgers

1871 Census - Great Western Hotel (next to Nursery) - Licenced Victualler Thomas Grigg (1809-1880) age 63, wife Mary Ann age 63, Nephew John Barber age 19 decorator; Nephew Thomas Grigg age 14 scholar; Domestric servant (Cook) Ann G Bow age 38 + Lodger [Note:- 'Thomas Grigg' died at the age of 71 on 28th Feb 1880 and was buried at FStG Church on 02 Mar 1880.]

1872 Article Southern Times and Dorset Herald 16 Mar 1872 - Ref to Court deposition in case of William Mickleburgh hay trusser of Dorchester v George Keats of Fordington - "A man named Wellspring deposed to carting hay from Mr. Grigg's weighing machine at the Great Western Hotel to the Barracks etc etc.

1874 - Article Weymouth Telegram 2nd Jan 1874 - Ref to The employee's of the Great Western Railway Co, in accordance with their custom, met together at the Great Western Hotel on Tuesday last and partook of an excellent supper provided by host Grigg.

1875 - Entry in 1875 Post Office Directory of Hampshire, Wiltshire and Dorset - Under Dorchester Dorset - Page 795 " Thomas Grigg, Great Westrn Hotel "

1875 - Article Southern Times and Dorset Herald 09 Jan 1875 - The officials- clerks and others - employed at the local offices of the Great Western Railway Company, had their annual supper on Monday evening at the Great Western Inn. Mr Grigg catered in satisfactory style for a party numbering 21, etc etc

1875 - Article Southern Times & Dorset herald 14 Aug 1875 - SALE OF FREEHOLD LAND AND PREMISES. A Sale of Freehold property attracting a numerous attendance of buyers and spiroted competition took place at the Kings Arrms Hotel on Thursday afternoon, Mr.Ensor submitting the several lots on behalf of the Duchy of Cornwall. Some of the land was disp[osed of at a rate of £1,000 an acre - which may be regarded as an indicationof the value put upon it as sites for building purposes. Now that the new fair field will soon be opened land inthe neighbourhood of Beggar's-knap is doubly valuable. Amongst the lots was the "Great Western Inn" and premises, near the Great Western Railway Station, and in the occupation of Mr. Thomas Grigg. This was purchased by Mr.R.N.Howard at £1,510 for Messrs. Eldridge Pope and Co the well known brewing firm,who we believe formerly held the property on lease. etc etc

1876 - Advert Dorset County Express and Agricultural Gazette 18 Jan 1876 - To Builders - Persons wishing to Tender for work to be done in alterations and additions to the "Great Western Hotel" Dorchester for Messrs Eldridge Pope and Co may see the plans and specifications at the office of the artitect Mt GR Crickmay Weymouth on and after this date to whom tenders are to be delivered not later than 12 oclock on Thursday 20th Jan , The lowest trenderer will not necessarily be accepted.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1876 - Article Southern Times and Dorset County Herald 6th May 1876 - TRANSFER OF LICENCE - On Monday the borough magitrates tranferred the license of the Great Western Railway Hotel from Thomas Grigg to G.D.Searle formerly drill sergeant of the Dorset County Constabulary.

1876 Artcle Southern Times and Dorset County Herald 16 Dec 1876 - Ref to the Annual Dinner of the Dorchester Club held last Thursday evening at the 'Great Western Hotel', the catering of Mr Searle affording the best satisfaction'" etc.

1877 Article Southern Times and Dorset County Herald 13 Jan 1877 - Ref to The employee's of the Great Western Railway Co supped together at the Great Western Hotel, Dorchester on Monday evening, Mr Searle providing excellent repast.

1878 Jury List - address Nursury - Searle, George, Innkeeper, Occupier, Amount at which assessed to the inhabited property £55

1881 Census - Great Western Hotel - Nursery Road - Publican George Searle age 52; wife Harriet age 53; 6 children (2 working as barmaids) a neice and nephew

1891 Census - Great Western Hotel, Great Western Road.- Hotel proprietor Henry J.J.Selway age 36; wife Emma age 34, 3 children; Niece Ethel M Ball age 10; a barmaid age 30; a general domestic servant.

    My grandmother, Ethel Mary Taylor, nee Ball, was brought up in the Great Western Hotel and lived there from the age of about two or three (1883) until she married in 1903. Her aunt and uncle, Henry and Emma Selway ran the pub and my grandmother went to live with them and their children, her cousins, after her parents died when my grandmother was still a young child. Her siblings were brought up by other relatives in different parts of the country. My grandmother worked in the pub and met my grandfather there, William Taylor, when he visited the pub while working on the Came estate nearby. Anne Dowsett (October 2021).

1901 Census - Great Western Hotel - 20 Great Western Road - Inkeeper Henry J.J.Selway age 46; wife Emma age 44; 6 children + Niece Ethel M Ball age 20 + 2 servants

1911 Census - Great Western Hotel - 20 Great Western Road - Hotel Proprietor Emma Selway age 54 + 5 children; + 2 barmaids + grandson + servant

1915 - Kelly's Directory - Great Western Hotel, 20 Great Western Road, - Mrs Emma Selway proprietoress

1984 Link to another picture taken by John Law - in 1984

1989 Great Western Hotel closes.

"Green Dragon Inn" The Green Dragon Inn was situated in All Saints Parish

1613 - 6th Aug - Extract from 'Fire from Heaven' by David Underdown pages 4 and 5 - referring to the cost of rebuilding after the great fire of Dorchester on page 4 states "--- many properties remained in ruins for for years. The old 'Queen's Arms' in Durngate was empty for at least a year before it was rebuilt as the 'Green Dragon'. On page 5 he states "Robert Short needed only £40 to rebuild 'The Queen's Arms' --"

1737 Burgage Rate for the Parish of All Saints in Dorchester (MRD Page 695) shows that Richard Cole was charged 6 pence for his house (The Green Dragon)

1754 April 5. A messuage in All Saints' parish was bounded on east by the backside leading to the 'Green Dragon', on north by part of the same, and on south by the Back Lane to Gallows Hill. Source MRD.B.64.

1775 - In a listing of Rental of Town Burgages Etc taken in 1780 - Reference to a Lessee Rev. Thomas Bryer, dated 1775 paying 2 shillings rent for a Stable and Garden, late Short's Malthouse, in All Saints Parish behind the 'Green Dragon'. (MRD page 699)

1766 - In a listing of Rental of Town Burgages Etc taken in 1780 - Reference to a Lessee James Buller Esq and Hussey his wife, 1766 paying 4 shillings rent for a Barn and backside [yard] behind the 'Green Dragon' in All Saints Parish. (MRD page 700)

1830 Pigots Directory, 'Green Dragon', Publican Charles Eldridge, Durngate Street Dorchester

1839 Roberts Directory, 'Green Dragon', Publican James Longman,

1841 Census Living at Durngate Lane Dorchester James Longman Innkeeper and Horse dealer employing 3 men born Winterborne Zealston

1842 Pigots Directory, Dorchester Dorset, Page 121 under Taverns and Public Houses - 'Green Dragon' James Longman, Durngate Street

1844 Pigots Directory - 'Green Dragon' James Longman, Durngate Street Dorchester

1852 Slaters Directory, 'Green Dragon' - James Longman, Durngate Street

1861 Census living at Durngate St - Edwin Longman Son unmarried aged 31 Horse Dealer and Inn Keeper born Morden : James Longman, his father, is still head of the family at the same address but now only described as a Horse Dealer so clearly leaving the running if the 'Green Dragon' to his son Edwin.

1871 Census living Durngate St 'Green Dragon' All Saints Parish - Thomas Rogers Head Married aged 28 Joiner & Licensed Victualler employing 1 man 1 boy with wife 3 children 1 servant

1875 Post Office Directory - William Pike 'Green Dragon' Durngate Street
Gregory's Buildings Located in Mill street, East Fordington
"Greyhound Inn"

1737 Burgage Rate for the Parish of St Peters in Dorchester (MRD Page 693) shows that James Bartlett was charged 6 pence for his house (The Greyhound)

1754, Sep 13. ALE LICENCE 1754 - Robert LAMBERT of Dorchester Gent: Nicholas STICKLAND of the same place Gent. acknowledge to owe to our sovereign Lord the King the Sum of £10 each. To be levied on their several goods and Chattles, lands Tenements by way of Recognizance to his Majesty's use. UPON CONDITION That whereas Jane BONNETT of Fforthington widow is this day licensed to keep a common Alehouse or Victualling house in the parish of Fforthington at The Greyhound in this County for the term of one year from the twenty ninth day of September Instant. If therefore the said Jane BONNETT shall keep good order and government and suffer no disorder to be committed or unlawful games used in the said house yard garden or backside thereunto belonging during the continuance of the said Licence. then this recognizance to be void or else to remain in full force. Taken and acknowledged this 13th day of September 1754 before us George CLAVELL and William RICHARDS.

1759, Jan. 27. The passage to the 'Greyhound Inn' is mentioned as the eastern boundary of a messuage in High South Street, St. Peter's parish. Source MRD.

1851 Census living at 'Greyhound Inn' Hospital Street James Hoare Head Married aged 21 years Innkeeper born York Yorkshire with wife servant + 3 Visiters [boarders]

1861 Census living at 'Greyhound Inn' Prince's Street George Smith Head Married aged 24 Publican born Godmanstone with his 2 sisters and 3 lodgers

1871 Census living at Prince's Street "Greyhound Inn" Holy Trinity Parish - Joseph Pope Head Married aged 39 Publican, with wife, 5 children, servant & 3 lodgers; Baptisms 01 Mar 1871 - Mary Eliza daughter of Joseph & Elizabeth Pope baptised of Holy Trinity Parish Dorchester a Publican

1875 Post Office Directory - Thomas Forse, 'Greyhound Inn', Prince's Street

1881 Census living in Prince's St, Holy Trinity Parish - Thomas Forse Head Married aged 52 innkeeper born Preston Dorset, with wife, daughter, 2 boarders, 7 travellers

1889 Kellys Directory - Thomas Forse, Prince's Street 'Greyhound Inn'. Commercial,

1891 Census living in Princess Street, 'The Greyhound' - Zillah Forse, Head Widow, aged 48 Landday of a Public House born Puddletown, with daughter, son-inlaw, grandaughter, niece + 6 lodgers

grinterne The Inventory of goods for John BARNES of Fordington dated 1609 - states "Item: j [1] grinterne & malt therein - £1. 13s. 4d " . I think this is something that enables the farmer to turn grain (usually barley) during the drying process in preparing malt
grist corn to be ground or that has just been ground to make flour or ground or crushed malt to make a mash for brewing
gristy gritty
Grove Buildings "Grove Buildings" is located in West Fordington and relates to all the houses along the street of the same name which connects the West end of the High Street in Dorchester to Northernhay to the North of the town. Colliton Park lies along the eastern side of the road with the houses on the west side behind which is Christchurch and the Royal Horse Artillery Barracks
Guinea (Ginney) Guinea - the sum of £1.05 (21 shillings in pre-decimal currency). First minted in 1663 from gold imported from West Africa with a value that was later fixed at 21 shillings it was issued up to 1813. It was replaced by the sovereign from 1817 but the guinea as a monetary unit continued until decimalisation in 1971. [Source Oxford English Dictionary] Often found in Dorchester Wills. Link to Pictures
G.W.R. Abbreviation for Great Western Railway
gyves (gives) Gyves are fetters now called handcuffs Source: The New and complete Dictionary of the English Language by John Ash published in 1775
haberdasher The New and Complete Dictionary of the English Language published in 1775 states 'a dealer in small wares but 17th century examples in Dorchester suggest a dealer in hats or clthing. In 1623 John White's nephew Josias Terry was described in the Freemen of Dorchester membership Register as a haberdasher by trade as was John Watts in 1625/6 (he was the brother-in-law of Richard Bushrod also described in his will in 1629 as a haberdasher) . In 1656 Josiah Terry took on an apprentice from which we know he was a haberdasher of hats. in 1621 Richard Bushrod of Dorchester was described as a haberdasher and he primarily sold hats
half head bedstead with a wooden back of medium height, short corner posts without a canopy
"Half Moon Inn"

[Note From bef 1830 to c1861 called 'The Anchor Inn']

The Half Moon Inn was situated on the north side of Sheep Lane [Pease Lane] in 1743 & at 15 North Square from 1871

1743, Feb. 6. A messuage on north side of Sheeplane was bounded on west by William Pate's malthouse, on north by the Castle, and on east by the 'Half Moon'. Source MRD. B.65.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

1865 in Harrods Directory James Russell of North Square Dorchester is the Innkeeper of the 'Half Moon'

1868 19 Nov Thursday - Newspaper Weymouth Telegram - Article Sad Death of a Dorchester Publican - James Richard Russell landlord of the 'Half Moon Inn'

1871 Census Living at North Square "Half Moon Inn" St Peters Parish - Frances Russell Head widow aged 54 Licensed Victualler & House Proprietor born Fordington, with a servant. [Note Frances was the widow of James Russell]

1881 Article Southern Times and Dorset County Herald Sat 16th Apr 1881 - "The Licences of the following public houses were transferred as under:- 'The Railway Tavern', South Street, from John Pitfield to Thomas Grigg; Queens Head Fordington from James Meech to William Player; Queen's Own, Durngate Street from Henry Wilshire to Samuel Warren; Half Moon North Square from Henry J.J.Selway to Arthur Spicer."

1889 Kellys Directory, Joseph Horwood, North Square 'Half Moon Public House', Commercial

1891 Census living North Square 'Half Moon Inn' - Joseph Harwood head married aged 49 Licensed Victualler born Tintinhull Somerset with wife & 6 children.

1895 Kellys Directory, Walter J Marsh 'Half Moon Public House' 15 North Square

a Half Place' A half place referred to a plot withinin the 3,097 acres of Fordington Fields which according to 'Notes on Fordington Manor' by Henry Joseph Moule, contained between 20 and 25 acres of land and usually had a tenement. Links Tithe Map of Fordington - 1844 showing plots : Surveys of Tenant Plots in 1600:    1615:   1650 .
hall

In the 17th century the 'Hall' was generally the main living room so it's often the first chamber to be itemised and for the better off contains things like tableboards and stools, an amry, a trencher cage, with trenchers and chargers for eating. The other main room was the kitchen and bedrooms might be described as 'the chamber within the hall' or 'the chamber above the hall'

Worth remembering that in the 17century many if not most houses in Dorchester were shared accommodation. It was quite common therefore for one person to own half of a house, or where they owned the whole house to live in one part and lease out the rest. This led to even the main room being divided between families.  

haps the bar or shaft of a lock
Hartley Hartley is a tything in thye parish of Mintern Magna
Hartford Lane Harford Lane is a settlement in the Parish of Melcombe Horsey in Dorset
a hay A net used for catching hares or rabbits
Hayward As in Hayward of the Manor: An official of the Manor primarily responsible for the maintenance of its hedges. Dictionary for 1775 also refers to looking after cattle and preserving the hedges of the common fields. Saxon in origin.
heifer or (heffer, hefer, heypher bease, heyffer, hypher) heifer beasts would be young cows that have not had a calf
hellier or hellyer a thatcher or tiler
herbage the right of pasture on another persons land
heriot [heryott, herriot] A fine payable by a copyholder, to his Lord on inheriting copyhold land. Some freeholders too, were liable to pay heriots. It was an early form of estate duty. In practice, it might take the form of the best beast of the new tenant. See Surveys of Fordington Manor which list tenants, some giving an indication of the year in which the copyhold was signed and the rents payable. The copyholds were initially generally bought for 3 lives and when the lead tenant died it was customary for the copyhold to be surrendered for the Lords approval of the next life. This surrendering of the copyhold did not result in any further herriott when title effectively passed to the next life.
Hermitage Hermitage is a Tithing under the Manor of Fordington [Link to John Hutchins “The History and Antiquities of the County of Dorset” published 1860-1874.]
hey reek hayrick - another term for haystack
hide a measure of land that varied between 60 and 120 acres
Hillside Terrace Hillside Terrace: 10 houses accessed from north side of Fordington Hill through an alleyway see 1901 OS Map of east Fordington
hind a servant in the countryside typically a farm servant or bailiff
'Hit or Miss' Inn or Public House [situated at Fordington Cross] 1861 Census living at Fordington Hill, Fordington 'Hit or Miss' Henry Franklin, Head married aged 48; Publican, born Poole, with wife 5 children,

1861 21st Jan Henry Franklin, of the Hit or Miss Fordington was summoned for refusing to admit the police into his house after the door had been locked. Fined 5 shillings.

1865 Harrod's Directory - Henry Franklin 'Hit vor Miss' East Fordington [Note:- Henry Franklin died and was buried at FStG on 09 Jun 1866 aged 54, when the innkeeper became his son Joseph]

1865 - 31 Oct Sherborne Mercury Article page 5 - FARRIERY - The importance of having horses well shod is now universally recognised. The Committee of the Bath and West of England Society at their last annual general meeting offered several prizes in this department of handicraft, and the competition regarded as one of the most interesting features of the exhibition. It was at the time intemated in a semi-official m,anner that the afrriery as a rule, is in a by no means satisfactory state. This may or may not be true, but we have recently had ocular demonstrations that Dorchester contains at least one farrier who is efficient in his calling and commendably proud of his skill, viz Charles BULLOCK of the A Battery, B Brigade R.H.A. now ststioned at the barracks [i.e. at West Fordington] . Those interest[ed] in the subject may see a unique specimen of his workmanship at the Hit or Miss in Fordington.

1865 - 9th Nov Bridport, Beaminster, and Lyme Regis Telegram page 3 - To FARRIERS and SMITHS - Charles BULLOCK, of A Battery B Brigade of the Royal Horse Artillery stationed at Dorchester Barracks, CHALLENGES Farriers and Smith in the Counties of Dorset, Somerset and Hampshire that he will shoe a horse with any man in the above Counties for any staked amount. Specimen work to be seen at the Hit or Miss Inn Fordington Dorchester.

1866 10 Nov Bridport News page 4 -Transfer of Licenses - On Monday the borough magistrates transferred the following licenses: - etc - and that of the Hit or Miss Fordington from the late Mr Henry FRANKLIN to Mr Joseph FRANKLIN.

1871 Census living at Fordington Cross 'Hit or Miss Inn' - Joseph Franklin Head Unmarried Aged 28, Publican Brewer - Solicitors General Clerk, with Mother, Sister and Brother

1875 Post Office Directory - Joseph Franklin 'Hit or Miss' Fordington [Note:- Joseph Franklin died and was buried at FStG on 31st Dec 1875 aged 33 ]

1876 9th Sep Southern Times and Dorset County Herald - Mr Weston then asked for a transfer of the licence from the 'Hit or Miss Public House' in Fordington to the premises of Mr Taylor near the Great Western Railway Station. Mr Alfred Pope opposed on behalf of the owners of the 'Hit or Miss' - The Duchy of Cornwall. The Clerk pointed out that as the owners of the Hit or Miss opposed there appeared to be a fatal objection. Mr Weston said the Hit or Miss prmises were about to be taken down, but Mr Pope replied that he had no instructions to that effect. - rejected
hobelers used as in "consisted of twelve men at arms and six hobelers" which latter were a kind of light horse, who rode about from place to place in the night, to gain intelligence of the landing of boats, men, &c. and were probably so called from the hobbies, or small horses, on which they rode. Explanation from: 'The island of Graine', The History and Topographical Survey of the County of Kent: Volume 4 (1798), pp. 250-258.
hock'day or hokkeday A holiday commemorating the expulsion of the Danes, formerly observed on the second Tuesday after Easter; -- called also hocktide . [ Eng.] [ Written also hokeday .] Found on http://www.encyclo.co.uk/webster/H/51
hog or hogg In the context of probate wills & inventories a hog was a domesticated male pig raised for slaughter (often castrated) . Example the Will of William BOONE of Fordington Husbandman 1580 he leaves to the poor mens box in Fordington 'a sheep called a pure hogge'. According to need this could be sold and the money added to the poor box, or a male sheep slaughtered and used to feed them.
hogshead or hogsed; hoggesheade also 'half hoges head' A Hogshead was a large cask holding 54 gallons of beer or 52 and a half gallons of wine but sometimes varied in capacity. smaller casks often referred to as half hogs heads.
holland holland today is used to refer to 'The Netherlands' but in the 16th & 17th century in Dorchester & Fordington it was a term used to refer to a kind of smooth hard wearing linen fabric imported from Amsterdam in huge quantities by the Dorchester Merchants. The definition given in The New and Complete Dictionary of the English Language published by John Ash in 1775 states 'A fine substantial sort of linen cloth".
holle whole
Holloway Row/Road 'Holloway Row' or Holloway Road, located in East Fordington was known from before 1836 as Cuckold's Row' and later as 'School Street' - Follow link for more information
homage To respect, to pay honour to profess feilty Source:- The new and complete Dictionary of the Enlish Language by John Ash Vol 1 Published London 1775 Example Will of Henry DERBY of Beaminster dated 8 Mar 1620. See William Deby biography
home whom
hooper a maker of hoops or bonds for barrels
horse 'horse' was also used to mean a stand e.g. a vathorse or fatehorse was a stand on which a vat for ale etc was placed.
Hospital of St John Dorchester Link to British History on Line - A History of the County of Dorset - Dorchester Hospital os St John the Baptist Dorchester
Hospital Street Hosital Street was previously known as 'West Back Street' or 'Back West Street'. It was later renamed as 'Princes Street'. More Info under Princes St
hosyer maker of hosiery e.g. stockings
huckster huckster (derived from the german hock 'a pedlar') One who sells small articles retail, a pedlar, a low tricking dealer. Source:- The new and complete dictionary of the English language published 1775
huiod latin word abbreviation often used in probates for hujusmodi or huiusmodi as 'i' & 'j' are interchangeable meaning 'of this kind; this'
hurdler worker who made hurdles for a living - i.e. a portable rectangular frame strengthened with withies or wooden bars, used as a temporary fence
Hundred Until Tuor times, this was an administrative subdivision of a count, probably so named from it's having originally containedeither a hundred families, a hundred fighting men or a hundred hides. Jurisdiction was supposed to be vested in the county's sherriff, but many hundredsgot into private hand.
husbandmen a tenant farmer or small-holder who might also have to work on the land of larger landowners to maintain himself, below the rank of Yeoman. As such they were sometimes included in tax returns, eg hearth tax, or annual rates levied for the repair of the highways etc. An indicator of their status in these returns would be that they are contributing only small amounts compared to the main landowners.
hypher heifer - a cow that has not born a calf
iak jack of iron - device for turning the spit when roasting meat before the fire [note:- 'i' and 'j' were interchangeable in 17the Century]
ibidem (abbreviations ib. ibm. ibid) Latin for 'in the same place; or at the same time'
Icen Way

'Icen Way' within All Saints Parish

(see 1901 Map of Dorchester) --- In 1901 it runs all the way from High East Street south to join King Street (which leads north east to Fordington Cross).

(See 1886 Map of Dorchester.) --- In 1886 the top portion of this road, from High East St south down to its junction with Woolaston Road, was called 'Bell Street'. The middle part from Woolaston Road junction to the cross roads with South Walks was called 'Gallows Hill' and only the very bottom section from South Walks to King Street was called 'Icen Way'

(See 1771 Map of Dorchester ) --- In 1771 the top portion previously 'Bell Street' was called 'Jail Lane'. I suspect that 'Jail Lane' covered the same ground as 'Bell Street' i.e. down to the juction which was later going to be called Woolaston Road by 1886. the next section is still called 'Gallows Hill' which took it's name from the Gallows mounted at the cross roads with South walks. Unfortunately this map does not extend to cover the last section which was called Icen way in 1886.

(See 1611 Map of Dorchester) --- In 1611 there were no houses only lane access to various fields

iiij (as an example) The value of items appraised in inventories were written in roman numbers but whereas we would write 'iv' meaning '4' they wrote 'iiij'. Figures were succeeded by 'l' for pounds, 's' for shillings, and 'd' for pence and written above the line. Valuations of items often ended in 4 pence. A 'mark' (See below) for example was thirteen shillings and four pence in value and written as 'xiijs iiijd
Imprimis: [Abbreviated form Imp: or Impris] Latin for “In the first place” usually at the start of a list of bequests in a Will
inter alia among other things
Inrie Abbreviation for Inventory sometimes used in letters of administration
iron flesh (or tosten eyen, or flesh pike, flesh poke, flesh iron) iron flesh is a toasting iron or toasting fork. Altough sold as Flesh Irons and Toasting forks as far as I can see the longer thinner irons were for toasting as you needed greater distance from the hot fire where it was held for a longer period until toasting was complete. The shorter often sturdier irons were mainly used for taking meat (i.e. flesh) out of boiling water. Link to pictures Note:- Fancy Irons would have been used by better off families such as in the kitchens by servants of the gentry or perhaps merchant or yeoman families. Poorer people used just a plain fork made by the local blacksmith.
Item: [abbreviated form Itm: or even It:] Usually following on from “Impremis” Itemising each bequest in a Will
iuxta Latin often used in Visitation Pedigrees meaning 'near' hence 'iuxta Shafton' = near Shaftsbury
Jac Often used as an abbreviation for the Reigh of James I hence Jac 5 was the fifth year of his reigh (which ran from 24th march each year) or 24 Mar 1606 to 23rd Marcxh 1607
Jacobus (Iacobvs)

Jacobus Coin head Jacobus Coin back A Jacobus is an English gold coin of the reign of James I, worth 25 shillings.

The name of the coin comes from the Latin inscription surrounding the King's head "Iacobvs". [note:- 'i' and 'j' - and - 'u' and 'v' were interchangeable in 17the Century]

Example: The Will of Rev. Edward DAMER (1632-1701/3) dated 1st May 1701 -- extract --- "To each of my brothers and sisters to my cousin Trevillian and his sister Seely and to my daughter PITTMAN and to each of my daughters-in-law and to each of the children of my brother George DAMER to each of these last mentioned relations a broad Jacobus peice of gold"

Jail Lane (Gaol Lane)

'Jail Lane' was situated in All Saints Parish in Dorchester. It connects 'High East Street' running south east to join the corner of the old Roman Wall where there has long been a cross roads where the town scaffold was erected. It was the route taken by criminals in the back of a cart to be hanged and also referred to as 'Gaol Lane'.

It changed it's name, but I am not sure when the street first became called' Bell Street' see the 1771 Map of Dorchester which shows this top section to be called 'Jail Lane'. The bottom of this lane is called 'Gallows Hill' .

Link to 'Bell Street' for more information about the street and The Bell Inn

jewter Jouster, a retailer of fish
jointure (or joynture) an estate settled on a wife for the period during which she survives her husband
joyne (or joynt, joyne, joyned, joined, ioyne, ioyned) usually used with “joyne stoole(s)” meaning a stool(s) made by a carpenter usually with four turned legs and of a joined construction - fixed with wooden pegs Picture Link
jump coate or (iump coate) short coat (The Glossary of Household, Farming and Trade Terms from probate inventories published by Rosemary Milward of the Derbyshire Record society from 1977-1991 states ' short coat worn by men in the seventeenth century'. I have only come across this in one Inventory in Dorset - that for Lucy Eames who died in 1665 - where the inventory was specifically only for her apparel as a separate inventory was drawn up for everything else as her son inherited his fathers estate - so it looks like it applied to a short coat worn by both sexes).
juncti sunt latin for:-matrimony
juramento (abbreviated form 'Jur') latin - by the oath of
jurat Jurat = Latin for Jury often seen in Letters of Administration - IN LAW 1. HISTORICAL a person who has taken an oath or who performs a duty on oath, e.g. a juror. 2. a statement on an affidavit of when, where, and before whom it was sworn.
kart or carte strong springless vehicle of two wheels used mainly in agriculture
kercher (kercheve) Kercher: a kerchief or linen cloth worn around the neck. Also:- from Bloomsbury Fashion Central: Period: Early Medieval to late 18th century. A draped covering for the head. In the 16th century “kerchief” was often loosely used for neckerchief, a similar covering for the neck. Occasionally the term also applied to a handkerchief.
kettel or kettell, kettele, keddle, keydyll, keytell, cetle, kittle kettle: An open cooking pot or pan with semi-circular handles , one on each side, to suspend it over the fire. The modern type did not come into use until the 18th. century. A kettle pan is a four handled pan. [One source used : A Glossary of Household farming and Trade terms from Probate inventories by Rosmary Milward Derbyshire Record society]
Kettledrum Coffe Tavern

The Kettledrum was a Coffee Tavern situated at 17 the Grove West Fordington and run by Albert Victor CURTIS an Army Pensioner and his wife Louisa

1890 - 18 July Article Bridport News Fri 18th July 1890 Page 5: Excursion : --when tea admirably served by Mr CURTIS of The Kettledrum West Fordington was partaken of on the beach and graetly enjoyed

1891 - See report 1893 21 Mar

1893 - 21 Mar Article Weymouth Telegram Tue 21 Mar 1893 Page 8 : Albert CURTIS manager of the "Kettledrum" Coffee Tavern Grove Buildings Dorchester stated that on Feb 22nd of this year he saw the prisoner in High West st. He knew her, she having stopped at his house for a period of 6 weeks in 1891 etc etc

1893 - 7 Nov Article e Weymouth Telegram Tue 7th Nov 1893 Page 5 : WEST FORDINGTON COFFEE TAVERN _ On Thursday evening a jumble sale was held at West Fordington School room in aid of funds of the "Kettledrum" Coffee Tavern. The sale was largely patronised and the proceeds amounted to £15 The arragements were made by etc etc list of people

1894 - 21 Aug Weymouth Telegram --Refreshments were supplied on the ground by Mr CURTIS of the Kettledrum Coffee Tavern

1896 - 11 Apr - Article Southern Times & Dorset County Herald Page 6 - CHRIST CHURCH CHOIR :- On Tuesday evening the boys of Christ Church choir were entertained to a substatial tea at The Kettledrum Coffee Tavern by the organist (Mr H.G.Gilmore Dodderidge)

1896 - 28 July - article Weymouth Telegram Tue 28 July 1896 page 6 brief mention " Girls Friendly Society Festival " Mr CURTIS of The Kettledrum provided an excellent tea " etc

1896 - 18 Aug - article Weymouth Telegram Tue 18 Aug 1896 Page 6 West Fordington Vegetable & Cage Bird Show - very brief mention there was a refreshment stall etc etc Mrs CURTIS of The Kettledrum assisted

1896 - 27 Nov - St George Fordington Burials 1896 Entry 241 on burial of their 16 month old son Albert Victor CURTIS gives their address as "The Kettledrum The Grove West Fordington"

1899 - 18 July article Weymouth Telegram Tue 18th July 1899 Page 5 :Dorchester news: Remembering the Little one: "Tea was provided by Mr Curtis of the "Kettledrum"

1906 - 15 Seo Article Southern Times & County Herald Sat 15th Sep 1906 Page 6 Sudden death of Mr Emanuel Legg - Inquest Mr Albert CURTIS of the Kettledrum" was Chosen Foreman

1907 - 16 Feb 1907 Article Southern Times & County Herald Sat 16 Feb 1907 Page 3 - Artcle under The Stewart memorial "Soldiers Home and Coffe Tavern: ----"Dr Fisher asked if it would be possible to give a small donation to Miss MANSEL for the Kettledrum Coffee Tavern which was badly in need of funds"

Killing vermin

Killing Vermin: Many people may be suprised to find that churchwarden accounts (which have survived from 1725 for Fordington) often contain reference to payments made to parishioners who brought them the heads of what were generally referred to as vermin. This is particularly true for Fordington, probably because it contained 3,000 acres of agricultural land that surrounded Dorchester on 3 sides that were called Fordington Fields. Perhaps the most common payments were for sparrow heads, but also included polecats, stoats and hedgehogs, sometimes in quite large quantities and most often around harvest time.

The first disbursements return for 1725 for example (image 4) refers to paying for' a polecat head 4d'. and 'killing birds 2 shillings'. The 1732 return lists 6 separate payments for a total of 9 polecat heads and £1. 4 shillings for killing birds. I think they were only paying about 1d per sparrow head so this probably represents over 280 birds. Another good example is disbursements for 1761/1762 (images 66/67) where there are 22 separate payments for sparrowheads during May to July. The 1775/6 return apart from sparrows and the odd polecat has payments for 18 hedgehogs.

As an interesting aside I think the practice of rural communities paying parishioners (particularly the poor in the case of Fordington) for killing what they considered to be vermin/pests was of long standing. When Anthony EAMES emigrated to America in 1633 he ended up in 1650 in the parish of Marshfield in Plymouth County. He and his son bought 100 acres there and the area was clearly still much more of a wilderness than generally encountered in Dorset. The Marshfield town meeting minutes for 18th Nov 1652 record them agreeing to pay twenty shillings a head for every wolf any inhabitant killed. This was a lot of money but probably reflected both the better status of those that emigrated and the fact that wolf packs were a direct threat to the inhabitants themselves rather than crops as in Fordington.

kine (or kyne) cows
"Kings Arms Inn" & Posting House

(also known as 'Kings Arms Hotel')

[Note:- 'Kings Arms Tap' was part of the hotel in 1881]

Kings Arms Hotel 1812

Kings Arms Hotel 1828

Kings Arms Hotel 1886 The King's Arms Inn is at No. 30 and 30A High East street Dorchester with Stables and outbuildings which backs onto Friary Lane. This building was Grade II listed on 8th May 1950 when it was described as being of "Late C18 or early C19" - [Picture right taken 1886]

1737 Burgage Rate for the Parish of All Saints in Dorchester (MRD Page 694) shows that Elizabeth Battin was charged 1 shilling and 3 pence for her house (The King's Arms)

1772 - 2nd Nov - The next Assembly will will be held at the Kings Arms Inn on Thurdsay 5th Nov 1772 and to have the remainder fortnightly

1775, February 3rd - From Corporation Accounts MRD Page 488 - Of Mr William Templeman a years acknowledgement for the Pillars standing in the street at the King's Arms Inn

1788 - 18th March Dorchester- The Next Dorchester Subscription Ball will be held at the Kings Arms Inn on Thursday the 27th instant - Salisbury and Winchester Journal

1799 - 14th November - The Next County Assembly will be held as usual at the Kings Arms Inn, Dorchester on Thursday November 14th 1799, and continue every Thursday month during the season - Salisbury and Winchester Journal.

1812, Saturday 17th Oct - Salisbury & Winchester Journal Issue Monday 19th 1812- William Oliver [See Image left]

1820 - Poem written by William Barnes (1801-1886) about his first siting of Julia Miles (1805-1852) as she stepped down from a 'Magnet' stagecoach in the cobbled yard of the Kings Arms Hotel .

1828, 5th January - Francis Oliver brother to William Oliver in partnership to run the Kings Arms

1830 Pigots Directory - King's Arms Inn, Francis OLIVER High East Street. It was a main pick up point in Dorchester for caoches

1839 Roberts Directory, 'King's Arms Hotel', Publican F. Oliver, High East Street Dorchester

1841 Census - Publican was Francis OLIVER aged 47 living in Durngate Street Dorchester

1842 - Exeter and Plymouth Gazette Sat 27th Aug 1842 - The Duke and Duchess of Somerset arrived at Oliver's 'King's Arms Hotel' Dorchester from London on Wednesday evening, and their Graces left there yesterday for Sidmouth. This morning they arrived in Exeter changed horses at Pratt's Old London Inn and proceeded to their Mansion at Stover.

1844 Pigots Directory - Francis Oliver, High East Street

1851 Hunt's Directory, Dorchester Dorset, Page 82 under Inns and Public Houses - 'King's Arms' William Manley, High East Street

1852 Roberts Diretory - Kings Arms Inn William Manley, High East Street

1855-1860 - See picture of this date in Jo Draper's publication "Dorchester" inside, 1st page and text.

1871 Census living at 30 High East Street "Kings Arms Hotel" - George Frost Head Married aged 48 Hotel proprietor (employing 20 men) born Yeovil

1875 Post Office Directory - High West Street George Frost - 'Kings Arms' Family & Commercial Hotel & Posting House

1881 Census living at 30 High East Street All Saints Parish - George Frost Head Married aged 59 Hotel Proprietor born Yeovil with '12 hands'
Also at this address 'Kings Arms Tap' Joseph Horwood Head Married aged 39 Master of Tap born Yeovil, with wife.

1889 Kellys Directory, Harry Stone Frost High East Street 'King's Arms Hotel & Posting House', Commercial

1891 Census Living at 30 Higher East Street All Saints Parish "Kings Arms Hotel", - Harry Stone Frost, head married aged 35 Hotel proprietor born Weymouth, with wife, 2 sons, visitor 10 servants

'Kings Arms Tap'

[Note In 1881 part of the Kings Arms Hotel]
1851 Hunt's Directory, Dorchester Dorset, Page 82 under Inns and Public Houses - 'King's Arms Tap' William Popple, Friary Lane

1891 Census living at Friary Lane 'Kings Arms Tap' Joseph Toms head married aged 41, Warehouseman London and South Western Railway Co, born Dorchester with wife, 2 daughters
'King's Head Inn' 1861 Census living at 'Kings Head' Mill Street East Fordington District 6 - John Gulliver Head Married aged 39 Victualler & Grocer born Bradford Abbas with wife, 4 children, & 2 lodgers

1865 Harrods Directory - John Gulliver, 'Kings Head' and shopkeeper, East Fordington

1871 Census living at 'Kings Head' Mill Street East Fordington District 6 - Emma Gulliver Head Widow aged 52 Licensed Victualler born Fordington, with son & 2 boarders

1875 Post Office Directory - Emma Gulliver (Mrs), beer retailer, Mill Street East Fordington

1881 Census living at 'Kings Head' Mill Street, East Fordington - Henry Keats Head Married aged 53 Publican born Bockhampton, with wife,

1889 Kellys Directory - Henry KEATS - Mill Street Fordington ' King's Head Public House

1891 Census living at Mill Street Fordington [Kings Head] Henry KEATS Head Married aged 63 Licensed Victualler born Bockhampton Stinsford Dorsetr, with wife
kings evil Kings Evil: A serophulous ulceration of the glands: 'The gift of curing this malady has been superstitiously attributed to the kings and queens of England as successors to edward the confessor' [Source: The New and complete Dictionary of the English language by Jon Ash published in 1775]. or "Scrofula" formerly held to be curable by the royal touch [Source Oxford Dictionary of English] SCROFULA or Struma is a state of constitutional weakness generally exhibiting itself in early life, and characterized mainly by defective nutrition of the tissues, which renders them a ready prey to tuberculosis. The condition as it manifests itself in disease of the glands in the neck, was formerly known in England as 'kings evil' from the belief that the touch of the sovereign could effect a cure. This superstition can be traced back to the time of Edward the Confessor in England and to a much earlier period in France. Samuel Johnson was touched by Queen Anne in 1712, and the same supposed prerogative of royalty was exercised by Prince Charles Edward in 1745. [Source Blacks Medical Dictionary 32rd edition.] Example in Dorchester Division Militia list for 1762 Peter Green of Melcombe Regis was selected by ballot to serve in the Militia but discharged as "having Kings Evil".
kinsman or kinswoman kinsman / kinswoman is a very loose term used to denote a member of the same family. It is unlikely to be used for a direct descendant such as a son or daughjter or for a parent. It is used a lot in 1`7th Dorchester Wills
Kit 'Kit' was used in the 17th Century in Dorset as an abbreviation for 'Christopher' in the same way as we now use 'Chris'
Kitterminster A type of cloth
knitche of straw a bundle or sheave
knoppe, knoppes knobs
kyne (or kine, keyne) cows
Lady day Lady Day is the traditional name of the Feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin (25 March)
lanel (lannel) flannel a kind of wollen cloth
Latin Christian Names

There are many better listings on line - these are some of those in use from Dorchester and Fordington Documents
Adamus - Adam
Agneta (Annis) - Agnes (rare in south 1650-1820 - Anne)
Aluredus - Alfred
Alienora - Eleanor
Aloysius - Lewis
Amabilia - Mabel
Amia - Amy
Ambrosius - Ambrose
Amicius - Amyas
Andreas - Andrew
Anna - Anne; Hannah; Nancy - separate name by late C18
Arturus - Arthur
Beatrix - Betteris (obsolete) later revised as Beatrice in mid C19.
Caius - Kay
Carolus - Charles
Coleta - Nicholas
Constantia - Constance
Dionisia - Denise
Dionisius - Dennis
Egidius - Giles
Emelina - Emily
Francisca - Frances
Galfridus - Geoffrey
Georgius (Gorgius) - George
Godefridus - Godfrey
Gratia - Grace
Gualterus - Walter
Guido - Guy
Gulielmus - William
Hamo - Hamon
Helena - Ellen, Helen, Eleanor
Henricus - Henry
Horatius - Horace
Hugo - Hugh
Isabella - Ysabel, Elizabeth
Jacobus - James or Jacob
Jana - Jane; Joan
Jocosa - Joyce
Johanna - Joan, or Jane
Johannes - John (Abbreviated to Jno)
Joscia - Joyce
Juetta - Jowet, Ivote
Lucas - Luke
Maria - Mary
Marcus - Mark
Marta, Matthia - Martha
Michaes - Micha [Example Micheas Barnes of Fordington also referred to in documents as Michalah and in the same case before Sir Francis Ashley Oct 1626 as Michael]
Milo - Miles
Nicholai - Nicholas
Paganus - Payn
Petronilla - ( or Petrnella) - Parnell a female name
Petrus - Piers or Peter
Radulfus/Radulphi (abbreviated Rad.) - Ralph
Rainuldus - Reynall, Reynold
Randulphus - Reynell, Reynold
Ricardus - Richard
Robertus (abbrviated Robte) - Robert
Roesia or Rohesia - Rose
Tedbaldus - Theobald
Villefrdus - Wilfred
Willelmus - William
Xpianium (Xpianius) - Chrispian
Xtianium - (Xtianis but usually abbreviated as Xtian) - Christian
Xtopherus - ( 'Xtopher' common in Dorchester and Fordington records) - Christopher
Latin dates Dates were often expressed in roman numbers. The letter 'i' was interchangable with the letter 'j' and in writing numbers they generally used 'i' but if more than one in Dorchester and Fordington the last would be a 'j'. So the latin 'three' would be written as 'iij' and the 'third' as iijth. Today we would write '3rd' for the third. '2nd' for the second, or '5th' for the fifth but then they only used the suffix 'th' which was normally elevated into what today we term as superscript. In Wills and Letters of Administration dates were generally written in letters rather than numerals so you would get 'fuit sepult vicesimo quinto die mensis Novebris' [was buried twenty fifth day of the month of November].

i - primo ( ith - on the 1st )
ii/ij - secundo ( ijth - on the 2nd )
iii/iij - tertio ( iijth - on the 3rd )
iv/iij - quarto ( iiij th - on the 4th )
v - quinto ( vth - on the 5th )
vi - sexto ( vith - on the 6th )
vii/vij - septimo ( vijth - on the 7th )
viii/viij - octavo ( viijth - on the 8th )
ix - nono ( ixth - on the on the 9th )
x - decimo ( xth - on the 10th )
xi - undecimo ( xith - on the 11th )
xii/xij - duodecimo ( xijth - on the 12th )
xiii/xiij - decimo tertio ( xiijth - on the 13th )
xiv - decimo quarto ( xivth - on the 14th )
xv - decimo quinto ( xvth - on the 15th )
xvi - decimo sexto ( xvith - on the 16th )
xvii/xvij - decimo septimo ( xvijth - on the 17th )
xviii/xviij - decimo octavo ( xviijth - on the 18th )
xix - decimo nono or decimo undevicesimo ( xixth - on the 19th)
xx - vicesimo or rarely vigesimo ( xxth - on the 20th )
xxi - vicesimo primo (xxith - on the 21st ) and so on until
xxix - vicesimo nono or undetricesimo ( xxixth - on the 29th )
xxx - tricesimo (xxxth - on the 30th )
xxxi - tricesimo primo ( xxxith - on the 31st )          NOTE:- 'ultimo die' may also be used to mean the last day of the month of eg: 'ultimo die mensis Septembris' is 30th September
Latin Months usually expressed in Dorchester parish registers, wills and Letters of Administration as 'month of' or "mensis":-
mensis Ianuarii (or Januarii)-- for January
mensis Februarii -- for February
mensis Martii -- for March
mensis Aprilis --for April
mensis Maii -- for May
mensis Junii -- for June
mensis Julii -- for July
mensis Augusti -- for August
mensis Septembris -- for September
mensis Octobris -- for October
mensis Novembris -- for November
mensis Decembris -- for December
latten or (latyn, laytyn, laten) alloy of copper, zinc, lead, and tin, similar to fine brass: as in 'latten skimmer'
laver, lavar, lavyr laver; basin to wash in, particularly for the hands before and after meals, when food was eaten with the fingers. Also a cistern or trough
lay by the heels to put in the stocks or imprison
Laying In Laying In was when a woman was confined shortly before childbirth an example is [Note:-  Overseers of the Poor  Accounts for Fordington (Image 1012 "on ancestry.com) when Mary HISCOCK was paid 5 shillings in July 1821 for the laying in of John LUCAS's wife. In fact she went on to give birth to twins Isaac and Easu who were both baptised on 25th July 1821 at St Georges Church in Fordington.
lea; leas; leaze; lease, leasse meaning depends upon the context of the sentence 1) 'lea' is still used today to describe an open area of grassy or arable land but was often used in Dorchester wills as (2) 'leas' to describe meadow. Meadow was an area where grass was grown for a hay crop. After the festival of the wheat harvest, the hay having been cut, the beasts of the mannor were driven into the meadow, which was then used as pasture during the ensuing autumn, winter and spring. Meadows were often on low-lying ground near a river or stream , where beasts were more protected and had ready access to water. Not to be confused with (3) 'leaze' which can mean 'to glean'; or (4) 'a lease' used then as now meaning a legal contract to convey land or property to another party for a period of specified time. An added complication is the interchangability of 's' or 'ss' with 'z' depending upon the scribe
leaden cestern (leyde, leide)

'leaden cestern' refers to a 'cistern' made of lead - They were made in large numbers during the 17th and 18th century.

An example is in the Will Dated 27th May 1717 of Thomas PITMAN of Dorchester which was proved on 18th Nov 1717.

The picture right is of a typical small lead cistern used to store rainwater and is dated on the front 1714. Because Lead is durable many have survived and ones decorated as well as this one is often come up for sale at auction houses. In reality many were functional and made of plain lead and melted down and reused.

legum Latin - law. In probate 'legum dotore' = Doctor at Law
Lester Square Lester Square is just north of the east end of Mill Street in Fordington close to Fordington Corn Mill and Prince's Bridge
lettell little
Letter of Administration Letters of Administration: When a person died intestate [i.e. leaving no will] the next of kin or a close friend would often have to apply to the probate court for Letters of Administration to enable them to take possession of and distribute the estate. The applicant had to swear that there was no will, that the applicant would pay all funeral expenses and debts, administer truly, and submit a true inventory and account of his/her stewardship. The Court then granted Letters of Administration and might require the administrator to enter into a bond to administer the estate faithfully, in which case a copy of the act was endorsed on the document. A Bond is a binding agreement with a penalty for non performance. A bond deed is in two parts, the Obligation and the Condition. Before 1733 the Obligation, which records the penalty, was written in Latin. The Condition describes what the bonded person has undertaken to do, or otherwise committed himself or herself to (e.g. administer an estate), and was always in English. An inventory of all the goods of the deceased then had to be drawn up and exhibited into the Registry of the Court
Liberty A Manor, or group of manors, or other area lying outside the jurisdiction of the sherriff, and having a separate Commission of the Peace also called a soak
lic. (or per licenciam) by licence
Lives (in Land grants) In Fordington (especially in the 2,000 acres of Fordington Fields) land was often granted by the Duchy of Cornwall under the lifehold system. Tenants were granted a copyhold lease held for up to 3 lives by custom of the Manor. Typically the lives were for himself, his wife and eldest son, or, himself and his 2 eldest sons. but could be for any named individuals. This provided a means whereby tenants could buy a life time's security for himself and his immediate dependents for a lump sum (called a fine) and thereafter render only a small annual sum described variously as a reserved rent. [Sources Lifehold in the Western Counties of England 1650-1750 by Christopher Clay] See Surveys of Fordington Manor in 1615 and 1650.
Lyons Gate [Lion's Gate] Lyons Gate is a tithing in the parish of Minterne Magna
lininge, linon, lynning or lynnen linen, articles such as sheets or clothes made of linen
linsey (or linsey woolsey) A kind of cloth made of linen and wool often described as a 'coarse, inferior woolen cloth'.
Lippath Hill

It has mainly been referred to throughout history as 'Glydepath' this name being found in the charters of Dorchester (See the following Charters already transcribed on this site: 151 (dated 1407); 153 (dated 1408); 293 (dated 1417) and 591 dated 1547). In 1603 it is referred to as 'Glippath Hill' (See Speeds 1611 Map of Dorchester - page down for index) and simply ran from 'Glippath Bridge' over the river and up the hill where it became 'Colliton Row'. I suspect that Glippath is simply a colloquial for of Glydepath. In the 1700's it is recorded as 'Glide Path Hill' but also commonly referred to as 'Lippath Hill' another colloquial form of the word (See Will of James Bly Senior 1769, image on ancestry.com which conveniently quotes both alternative names for the street). The 1771 Map of Dorchester shows little change; 'North Walk' now joins the start of 'Glyde Path Hill' but it still climbs the hill to 'Colliton Row' (Where the Churchill family lived). Throughout his tenure as Rector of Holy Trinity the Rev George Wood in his parish registers referred to it as 'Libboth Hill' or 'Glyde Path Hill' so both forms seem to have been in common use for many years. By the 1901 Old Ordnance Survey Map, 'Glyde Path Hill' has now been extended to run at the base of 'North Walk' but rises from the river on its original course further along to the junction with Colliton Street where it becomes Glyde Path Road.

lit or littened to light or lighted
livery in seisen One of the earliest methods of transferring land was known as, “livery of seisin”. The buyer was known to be, "seized of the land".
L.L.B Abbreviation used for a graduation degree standing for 'Bachelor of Law' - often found against the name of Rectors/Vicars of one of the churches in Dorchester or Fordington to indicate that they had graduated in Canon Law
lockram (locqueram; locram) A kind of coarse linen - often referred to in Dorchster wills eg. 'kerchief of lorcram' Source The New and complete Dictionary of the English Language published by John Ash in 1775
looms (loomes, lomes, lowmes, lommes, lowmys, lumes, loms) Two meanings:- (1) An open vessel of any kind; tub, bucket or vat (2) a weaving loom, usually identifiable by the presence of gears or tools of the trade such as sleas (slays). Link to article in Dorset Ancestors about weaving and the Act of 1666 for everyone to be buried in woollen.

Loud's Mill [Also known as Loud's Factory]

 

[Other spellings:- Lounds Mill, Lowds Mill, Lowdes Mills Lutsmill.

 

Also known as Stantons Factory e.g.1851 Census]

LOUDS Mill: - Extract from British History on Line at :- https://www.british-history.ac.uk/rchme/dorset/vol2/pp104-132

Loud's Mill (708903) comprises a late 18th-century building of four storeys, an early 19th-century building of three storeys and lower buildings, one of which housed the millwheel; all are now converted to other uses.

1590's - "Water Mills were the only mechanical source of power. There was only one mill actually in town (Friary Mill) with two more just on the outskirts. West Mill and Fordington Mill. These were corn mills, but Loud's Mill, further down stream, was built in the 1590's specifically as a fulling mill for pounding cloth to make it thick and felty. An early 17th century map shows the tentering racks close by, where the cloth was stretched after fulling". ---Extract from page 25 of 'Dorchester Past' by Jo Draper.

1607 - Brief mention in Dorchester Life published 10 May 2010 :- extract "A little further on, the millstream and the Frome proper unite before reaching Loud’s Mill. First built in the 1590s when it was a fulling-mill, in 1607 ‘Lutsmill’ was another of John Churchill’s possessions. It was re-built in 1825 by William Stanton as an over-large woollen cloth factory, but it could not compete with the textile industry of northern England. It was demolished in the 1980s".

1615 - Brief Comment in the Survey of Fordington Manor in 1615 under Observations

1782 - 18th July To be LETT, and entered on immediately, - All those new-erected, convenient, and commodious WATER GRIST MILLS, called LOUDS, situate within one mile of Dorchester, and eight of Weymouth. Enquire of Mr.Robert Stickland, Dorchester: Source:- Salisbury & Winchester Journal

1822 - Cust, Mr. J Died Tuesday at Louds Mill, Fordington - Extract from Salisbury and Winchester Journal Monday 14 Jan 1822 [Note:- Joseph Cust aged 48 was buried at FStG 16th Jan 1822 and a Letter of Administration was granted to his widow Mary]

1825 - "PICTURE Plate 65" Page 54, of 'Dorchester Past' by Jo Draper. Caption:- Loud's Mill had been a cloth mill, originally for fulling or thickening woollen cloth, from the time it was first built in the 1590's. It was rebuilt on this huge scale in 1825 by William Stanton, and was demolished in the 1980's. Also brief mention in Dorchester Life published 10 May 2010 :- extract "A little further on, the millstream and the Frome proper unite before reaching Loud’s Mill. First built in the 1590s when it was a fulling-mill, in 1607 ‘Lutsmill’ was another of John Churchill’s possessions. It was re-built in 1825 by William Stanton as an over-large woollen cloth factory, but it could not compete with the textile industry of northern England. It was demolished in the 1980s".

1828/29 - Sims Joseph, with his wife and first 3 of their 9 children resident in one of the workers cottages at Loud's Mill. See 1841 Census

1830 - Stanton William, woollen cloth manufacturer, Louds Mill - Pigots Street Directory 1830

1839 - Stanton Wm & Son, Lowds Mill........Cloth Manufacturers - Roberts Street Directory 1839

1841 6th June Census - Link to list of employees and their families at Loud's Factory 1841

1844 - Stanton, William & Son, woollen cloth manufacturers, Loud’s Mill - Pigots Street Directory 1844

1848 - 9th Oct - Death of William Stanton burial 18th Oct 1848 FStG, Link to Will proved 17th Aug 1849 and more info about his family

1850 15th July - Sale of Louds Mill advertised - Link to extracts from newspapers - not sold

1851 March 30 - Census Link to list of employees and their families working at Stanton's Factory - [Note:- no trace in Census of Lydia Stanton widow of William Stanton].

1852 - Stanton, William & Son, woollen cloth manufacturers, Lowdes Mills - Slaters Street directory 1852

1855 21 April - James Loder of Fordington labourer charged with assault on Mr G.K.Stanton of Louds Mill cloth manufacturer - both needed medical attention - case dismissed. [Not transcribed full account of circumstances] - Salisbury and Winchester Journal Sat 21st April 1855

1857 27th February - Sale of Louds Mill advertised - Link to extracts from newspapers - not sold

1860 - Stanton - To be sold in lots to suit the conveinience of purchasers - about twenty tons of prime well made hay Price £5 per ton - Apply to Mr Stanton Louds Mill Fordington - extract from Dorset County Chronicle Thuirsday 26th April 1860

1861 April 7 - Census Living at Icen Road George Knight Stanton unmarried age 48 Woollen manufacturer employing 9 men 2 women & 5 boys. Also 'Stantons Factory' lists 4 cottages (1) Thomas Furze and family (gardener to Mr Collins?) : (2) Anthony Smith a Woollen Cloth Finisher with his wife and 5 young children; (3) Martha Mitchell a cloth worker and her daughters Mary Ann Mitchell a woollen weaver and Elizabeth Mitchell a woollen spinner also boarding with them Eliza Hawker a woollen weaver. (4) William Baker a woollen cloth worker with his wife Mary also a woollen cloth worker their daughters Mary Jane and Elizabeth Ann both Woollen weavers and their daughter Jemima a woollen warper with their son Edmund Baker a cloth worker.

1864 - 20th May Sale of Loud's Mills Dorchester - Highly desirable freehold Woollen Manufactory Mills, Dwelling house, cottages, outbuildings, and valuable water meadow and pasture land situate at Fordington Dorchester in the County of Dorset and known by the name of "Loud's Mills" -  - Link to extracts from newspapers with a full description of the property for sale.

1865 - Advertisements - After Grass to be let:- The Feed of about 5½ acres of good grass at Loud's Mill Fordington to be let until the 7th day of Nov next, the same day to be fed by sheep -&- Barley can be ground at Loud's Mill Fordington at 1s per sack - Dorset Count Chronicle Thursday 28th September and Thursday 26th Oct 1865

1864 18th April - Stanton, GK SALE: Loud's Mill Dorchester Dorset: Highly desirable Freehold Woollen Manufacturing Mills Dwelling house, Cottages, Out-buildings; and valuable water Meadow and Pasture. Situated at Fordington Dorchester in the County of Dorset and known by the name of Loud's Mills-- By MR J.T.ENSOR at the Antelope Hotel Dorchester on Friday May 20th at 4 in the afternoon -- long description of property -- Particulars apply to Mr G K Stanton Loud's Mill Fordington -- Times

1865 - Stanton and Son, woollen cloth manufacturers Lounds Mill - Harrods Street directory 1865

1871 - Apr Census - Louds Factory occupied by Robert Thrasher and family occupation manager of pulp Mill (now closed formerly cloth factory) born St Peters Dorchester. Also Charles Lake and family Ag Lab probably one of the cottages

1871 - The building known as Loud's Mill Fordington has been lately purchased by the Dutchy of Cornwall. It is said that it will shortly be converted into a flour mill. - extract from Bridport News Friday 30th June 1871

1873 - 6th Sep - North Europe Wood Pulp Company - LOUD's of Fordington Dorchester - Mr T.ENSOR has received instructions to SELL by AUCTION on Wed Sep 17th 1873 The following machinery Plant and Steam engine viz: A 20 horse power portable portable steam engine by Clayton and Shuttleworth, Tangye's patent hydraulic press, with 20 iron plates, 24 inches by 23 inches weighing machine by Avery, to weigh 4cwt, sack lifter and trucks by Marshall, circular saw bench, with 17 saws ?? inches to 40 inches in diameter, 19feet iron shaft with blocks and brasses and driving wheel, a 9 foot iron shaft, 10 feet iron shaft, each 2½ inches in diameter, 18 inch wheel, leather driving belt 49 feet long, 7¼ inches wide, ditto, 40 feet by 7 inches, a ditto 40 feet by 4¼ inches, ditto 30 feet by 3 inches, 60 feet of hoisting chain, 115 iron buckets for water-wheel, each 4 feet 4 inches long 11 inches wide, 131 iron brackets for water-wheels, 14 inches by 12 inches, 28 pulp pressing bags, 38 sacks, 4 new shaker boxes, 8 tubs, 2 screw wrenches, small quantity of crushed fir wood, fir bark, office desk, and sundry other articles.

1879 - 3rd Jan - Marriage: Dec 26th at St George's Church, Fordington, George third son of Mr Henry TAYLOR of Loud's Mill, to Sarah Annie youngest daughter of Mr John Sansom MARTIN Briton House Fordington - St George Parish Marriage Register and Bridport News Friday 3rd Jan 1879

1880 - 23rd Jan - The affairs of Mr H.Taylor implement manufacturer of Loud's Mill are to be wound up in liquidation, the creditors at a meeting on Tuesday having agreed to accept a composition of 5 shillings in the £. This is better than many at one time anticipated - Bridport News Friday 23td Jan 1880

1881 - Apr - Louds Mill occupied by Henry Taylor and family aged 57 Engineer & machinist Emplying 10 men and 7 boys also farming 30 acres with 4 men and 2 boys

1881 - Taylor, Henry - Deaths: September 27th 1881 at Loud's Mill Fordington Mr Henry Taylor implement manufacturer aged 58 - Western Gazette Friday 30th Sep 1881

1883 - 8th Dec - STEALING LEAD - At the borough police court on Thursday a man named George Hall was charged with stealing 35lb of lead the property of George Taylor of Loud's Mill. It appears prisoner was seen stripping the lead from a malthouse belonging to prosecutor, which was being pulled down, and on information being given to the police the lead was found in his possession. Prisoner was remanded until Monday.

1887 - 2nd Mar - Taylor, Caroline - BANKRUPTCY: Adjudications-- Caroline TAYLOR trading as Taylor and Sons Louds Mill Fordington Dorchester, agricultural engineer, miller, and implement dealer. Source: Birmingham Daily Post (Birmingham, England), Wednesday, March 2, 1887; Issue 8947 - Also Daily News (London, England), Wednesday, March 2, 1887; Issue 12759 - Also London Gazette Issue 25835 6th July 1888. Note Caroline Taylor was the widow of Henry Taylor born abt 1821 at Axminster

1889 - Taylor recently at Loud's Mill Fordington the wife of Mr B.E.Taylor of a son. Western Gazette Friday 28th June 1889

1891 - Apr Census - Living at Loud's Mill, Thomas Pomeroy Fish Keeper with his wife and 8 children

1895 - George Taylor Louds Works Engineer Thrashing machine proprietor agricultural implement maker & agent - Kellys Street Directory

1901 - Mar Occupier of Louds Mill Thomas Pomeroy a fish keeper and his large family

Loud's or Lowde's Road Source:- St Georges Baptism Register - Entry 946 Baptsim 2nd June 1895 of Wilfred Charles son of Charles Birt & Bessie Eliza HURST - Their abode is given as 19 St Georges Road* Fordington [ * Entry at the bottom of the page states "Lowdes or Loud's Road is now named St Georges Road by order of the Town Council"] The start of LOUD's Road can just about be seen on the 1886 map of Fordington: From 'Fordington Cross' take East Street and it becomes Loud's Road and is annotated as such on the right hand margin of the map. The 1901 map conversely refers to St Georges Road.
L.S.W.R. London and South Western Railway
lumber literally means disused articles of furniture etc but generally used in inventories to describe an assortment of items of little value
'lying in' 'Lying in' was a phrase commonly used to refer to the period a mother spent before and after childbirth when she could not work to support herself. It's importance came from the poor law where the churchwardens and overseers of the poor were required to account for the monies raised by the annual rate from landowners in the parish to support the poor. It gave rise to the interrogation of single women who were pregnant to clearly identify the father and ensure that he met the cost not only of her 'lying in' (usually in the workhouse) but also the future support of the bastard. This in turn led to the issue of Bastardy Bonds for the better off.
Mageston Mageston is a hamlet in the parish of Frampton
Maie Terrace Maie Terrace is situated in West Fordington one of the newer streets between the Water Works and the Railway accessed off Martin's Road See 1901 OS Map of Dorchester.
maijtrate A Magistrate
"Mail Coach Inn" (or Royal Mail Coach Inn)

1839 Roberts Directory - 'Mail Coach Inn', Publican J Parcel High East Street, Dorchester

1841 Census living in High East Street John Parcel age 40 to 44 Publican

1842 Pigots Directory, Dorchester Dorset, Page 121 under Taverns and Public Houses - 'Mail Coach' John Parcel, High East Street

1844 Pigots Directory - 'Mail Coach', John Parcel, High East Street Dorchester [Note:- See copy of the heading of one of his bills dating from 1844 in Jo Draper's publication "Dorchester Past" page 52]

1851 Census living at 'Mail Coach Inn' North Square - John Parcel Head Married aged 40? an Innkeeper born Pembrokeshire Wales

1852 Slaters Directory, 'Mail Coach' - John Parcel, High East Street Dorchester (Note:- John Parcel from the parish of St Peters was buried at StP 10th April 1855 aged 56 - 1861 Census St Peters 23 South Street Mary Parcel widow aged 60 retired Innkeeper)

1861 Census living at 'Mail Coach Inn' North Square St Peters Parish, Dorchester - John Purkis Head married aged 56 years, Victualler born Eling Hampshire with wife daughter 2 servants

1868 25 July a Saturday - Newspaper report in Bridport News of inquest held at the 'Mail Coach Inn'on the body of a Policeman Charles Bourne

1871 Census Living at North Square - Alfred Samways Head Married aged 28 Innkeeper born Piddletrenthide, with wife & 2 servants

1875 Post Office Directory - Alfred Samways, 'Mail Coach Inn', North Square

1881 Census Living at North Square - Jane Samways head, widow (of Alfred), aged 35, Innkeeper, born Coker Somerset, with 2 servants

Mainprise The commital of a person who might otherwise be inprisoned into the friendly custody of someone (his mainpernor) who had given securuty that he would be forthcoming at a certain time and place. Unlike bail, of which it is a special obsolete form, mainprise forbade the mainpernor to put the person under physical constraint. Source:-The Dictionary of Genealogy by Terrick V.H.Fitz Hugh Revised edition 1988
Manor At the Norman Conquest land had been granted to various nobles and landed gentry. Each agricultural estate was called a Manor headed by the Lord of the manor who held the estate from the King. Over a large part of England the typical estate contained a village with a church, and agricultural land consisting of two or more very large arable fields in which the inhabitants held scattered strips. The Lord’s demesne was usually held in a consolidated block adjoining the village. The land near the local stream was the meadow where grass was grown for hay, and the less lush grassland was the permanent pasture for the beasts of the manor, often a common. Typically the inhabitants of the early Manor were villeins a term used to denote a tenant of manorial land and a messuage or house that they held by agricultural service. He would be a free man to everyone except his feudal lord, which meant that he was bound to his holding in exchange for service. His work service was of two kinds: week work i.e. agricultural work done each week; and boon work, which was extra work done at important stages in the agricultural year such as harvest. This would include for example 3 days a year when everyone repaired the roads to the nearest town. The Lord of the manor had to provide horses, carts, and equipment. A villein could not bring a suit in the king’s court, and could not marry without his Lord’s permission; but he had rights, even against his lord, which were protected by the manor court. His holding - a house and usually a garden plot and orchard – carried with it the right to a certain number of arable strips of land on which he could grow his own food, the right to graze a certain number of beasts in the pasture, and the right to a certain crop of hay from the meadow. Sometimes there were rights to cut timber such as ash and elm from local forests. Oak was generally an exception harvested by the Lord and sold for shipbuilding etc. In addition to his work service the tenant paid rent of assize, which remained fixed for centuries despite the continuous fall in the value of money. At death his chattels were forfeit to the lord but might be bought by his heir. From about 1500 when the death of a tenant occurred, tenure of the land would be transferred only by copyhold, which meant its surrender to the lord of the manor and admission by him of the new tenant. Each admission was recorded in the Court Rolls.
Manor Court

Manor Court: The organs of manorial administration were the Manor Courts of which there were two types the Court Baron (which mainly dealt with disputes and administration of the lords estate), and Court Leet, dealing with such things as criminal proceedings where the principal was that Justice will be seen to be done by the Lord’s Court, not the Lord. Custom governed everything and checked the rights and duties of both the Lord and tenants. The Court Leet for Wareham still sits even today, although its functions are now largely ceremonial. The Lord of the Manor appointed a Bailiff and Hayward. The Bailiff looked after the lords interests, superintended his land, and liaised with tenants of the manor. The Hayward was responsible for all the hedges, fences, and enclosures of the manor.

Tenants elected from the most respected members of their community a number of officials. A Reeve was appointed to negotiate with the Bailiff on their behalf but the 'Constables', 'Tithing Men', 'Pinfalds', and 'Aletasters' had specific functions and were common across most of English Manors and had to report directly to the Manor Court. In Wareham for example, which was larger than most villages, they seem to have also had: - Carniter’s to check the freshness of meat and poultry, Bread Weighers to check on the freshness and ensure consistency of weight for the 2lb loaf; Scavengers to ensure standards of hygiene within the lanes and privies of the town; Leather Sealers to maintain the quality of leather goods and ever since 1762 Surveyors of Chimneys and Mantles to check that chimneys were regularly swept clean.

mantua (mantua maker, mantuamer ) A Mantua was a womans loose gown worn over a petticoat and open down the front usually made of a sumptuous material such as damask or brocade and worn for dressy occasions.- fashionable during the 17th & 18th Centuary. A 'mantua maker' also recorded as a' mantuamer' was one who makes gowns for women. Example:- Mary ABBOTT of Dorchester a 'mantuamer' took on an apprentice 'Ann BARTLETT' on 25th July 1767
mark or marke As long as currency was based on the value of silver, the basic monetary unit was the penny. Because that was a rather small unit the Mark (160 pence) and later the pound (240 pence) were used for accounting purposes, although no Mark coin was issued it was worth thirteen shillings and four pence. It was also common to leave six shillings and eight pence or half a mark in wills or see it as fees etc.
Martinstown The Parish of Winterborne St Martin a tranquil village situated some 7 miles from the coast at Weymouth and 4 miles south-west of Dorchester,
"Masons Arms"

The Masons Arms was situtated on Glydepath Hill in Dorchester in the Parish of Holy Trinity.

[1829 27 Apr - The Will of William Bower written 14th July 1827 and proved 27th Apr 1829 left "The Masons Arms" in trust to be sold - Note when the properties were put up for sale however the sale particulars refer to the 'Queen's Arms' rather than the Masons Arms'?]

1851 Census living at Glydepath Hill Holy Trinity Parish Dorchester - Isaac Robins Head married aged 32 Beer Retailer born Frampton 1852 Slaters Directory, 'Masons Arms' - Isaac Robins, Glydepath Hill, Dorchester

1861 Census living at 'Masons Arms' Glyde Path Hill Holy Trinity Parish - John Thomas Head Married aged 28 Licensed Beer House Keper & Plumber born Dorchester with wife & daughter & 2 boarders + 18 lodgers

1871 Census living at Glyde Path Hill "Masons Arms" Holy triunity Parish - John Lambert Head married aged 60 Carpenter and Innkeeper born Stourton Caundle Dorset, with wife 2 children & 10 lodgers

1877 05 Aug - Baptisms HT - Lily Beatrice daughter of James & Mary HARRIS baptised from Dorchester a Publican

1881 Census living at Glyde Path Hill 'Masons Arms' - James HARRIS head married age 44 Publican, born Fordington, with wife 3 daughters, boarder 9 travellers

1889 - Kellys Directory - James HARRIS , Glyde Path Hill, Beer Retailer - Commercial

The Beer House Kepper in 1891 was James HARRIS age 54 a native of Fordington

Matie Means Majesty - usually referred to as the 'Kings Matie'
Matrimorus conjuncti fuerunt

They were married - example Parish of Steeple Dorset Marriages 1725 Ancestry.com image 42 of 90

[The 4th entry in 1725 on this page relates to the marriage of "Georgius Yeats generos : et Elisabetha Williams 18th die of Octo: "(i.e. George Yates Gentleman &  Elizabeth  Williams 18th day of October)"

mazer or maze from the old french word 'masere' - a hardwood drinking bowl
medleygowne (meedlye gowne) a gown made of a mixture or miscellany of cloth - I am not sure whether this is a reference to colour or fabric but Joan HUNT in her will in 1609 lists her medleygown after her wedding gown so likely to have been her best and most expensive dress. Example Will of Elizabeth WHITE Widow of Fordington died 1607
meire or mere mare female horse
mendicant a begger ( from the latin Mendico - to beg) The new and complete dictionary of the English language published in 1775 also refers to 'one of some begging fraturnity in the Roman church'. Used in 1838 in Holy Trinity Dorchester burial register to descibe a 31 year old man (John Whiticombe) who died at the Queens Arms Public House whilst in transit
mensis Latin for:- 'of the month'
Menster Minister as in Vicar or Rector
mercer a dealer in cloth and other textiles
"The Mermaid Inn" The Mermaid Inn was situated on the south side of High West Street

1757, Jan. 31. " The messuage, called the "Mermaid", was situate on south side of High West Street. (Source Dorchester Corporate Develepment MRD)
meshing vate [or fate] mashing vat - used in brewing beer
messuage a dwelling house with outbuildings and land assigned to its use
Methodist Movement

[Note:- My great Grandfather Arthur William CHRISTOPHER (1859-1916) & my grandmother Catherine Lucy Denman (1857-1935) were Methodists]

History of Methodism

The Methodist movement began in 1738, when John and Charles Wesley, the sons of an Anglican Rector, set out to revive a sense of spirituality and inner holiness in worship. At first, they preached to church congregations and religious societies; then their followers formed themselves into two societies and met at member’s houses. In 1739 George Whitfield, an associate of the Wesley brothers when they were at Oxford, began to preach in the open air, and the Wesley’s followed his example. They accepted the nickname “Methodist” which had been mockingly bestowed upon them at Oxford as a derisive allusion to the methodical manner in which they performed the various practices and that their sense of Christian Duty and Church ritual required.

Although they remained members of the established church, they built supplementary preaching houses (Wesley) and tabernacles (Whitefield), and these became grouped into circuits under a Circuit Chapel.

In 1741 the followers of Whitfield, who were Calvinists and believed in predestination to heaven or hell, separated from those of the Wesley’s, who were Armenian and held that salvation was open to all true believers. During the eighteenth century both sects continued to be called Methodists. Much to my surprise Caerphilly became a centre of the Methodist revival in the 18th century; the first synod of the Calvinistic Methodists was held in a farmhouse near the town in 1743.

Wesley travelled the whole country and his following grew greatly. In 1778, Wesley’s chapel in City Road, London, was founded, with its own graveyard and burial register. By 1784, Methodist clergy were being barred from Anglican churches so they invoked the Toleration Act and became officially Dissenters. From then on they took less care to arrange their meetings at times that did not conflict with Church of England services, but the baptisms of their children were still performed and registered in church.

Charles Wesley died in 1788 and John in 1791. The movement continued to grow but in the following decades it was subject to an almost constant state of change, as a succession of sub-denominations developed and split off from the main body. In 1797 a sect called the Methodist New Connection was founded. It gave its laity more control over its affairs, and by 1837 it had thirty circuits, each with its own register.

In 1807, a small group called Independent or Quaker, Methodists left the main body, and in the following year the followers of Hugh Bourne were expelled from the Burslem Circuit for open camp meetings to the rural poor and built their first chapel at Tunstall. In 1812 they adopted the name Primitive Methodists and expanded, especially in the industrial towns of the north. Three years later, the Bible Christians (O,Bryanites) broke away in the south-western area of England. In 1818 a Metropolitan Wesleyan Registry of Births and Baptisms was begun in London, from duplicate certificates sent in by Circuits.

Three other groups resented the dominance of the Methodist Conference and the movement continued to divide. In 1827 the Protestant Methodists became a separate body, wanting more rights for ordinary members. In 1833, the Independent Methodists took over the name United Churches of Christ, and in 1836 the Wesleyan Methodist Association was formed, with the same aim of lay member rights.

In 1837 the Methodists obeyed the call to deposit their registers with the General Registrar – they sent 856 of which the oldest is one for London of 1738. However not all registers were sent although some have since found their way to local record offices.

Fragmentation however had taken its toll and there then began a program of consolidation. The Wesleyan Methodist Reformers from 1849, joined by the majority in 1857 then formed the United Methodist Free Churches. A further merger with the Methodist New Connexion group and the Bible Christians occurred around 1907 and became The United Methodist Church. All the ones against forming a Union became the Wesleyan Reform Union, mainly the Independent Methodists, United Churches of Christ and United Free Gospel Church. Source The Dictionary of Genealogy by Terrick VHFitzHugh published 1985

Michaes (or Michaiah) also spelt Michaes, Micheas, Michaus. Old form of 'Michael'. Origin 'Michaelis' Latin, and 'Micha' or 'Michaiah' both used in the Bible meaning 'Michael'. Micheas is generally used in parish registers whilst Micael or Michaiah is more often used in cases before magistrates or JP's
milch cow A cow kept for milking; a dairy cow. A cow that produces milk
Militia A body of men enrolled for emergency military service, on a local basis. From Anglo Saxon times there was an obligation on every grown male between the ages of 15 and 60 to defend his country but it was the Normans who enshrined this obligation into law with The Assize of Arms in 1181, the Statute of Winchester in 1285 and other decrees which laid down what weapons each man must keep according to his means and status. In the middle ages the force was raised by the sheriff but in tudor times it became the responsibility of the lieutenant, later known as the Lord Lieutenant. In 1558 two Acts were passed revising each mans responsibilities for providing arms, armour and horses. Those with incomes of £5-£10 per year had to have a coat of plated armour, a steel cap, a longbow with arrows and either a bill or a halberd. men with an annual income of £10-£20 had to find the same, but with a harquebus instead of a bill or halberd and a morion instead of a cap. Additional armour had to be supplied by the gentry, and the scale of requirements went on up to men worth £1,000 per year or more, who had to provide 16 horses, 80 suits of light armour, 40 pikes, 30 longbows, 20 bills or halberds, 20 harquebuses and 50 steel caps or helmets and so on. From time to time, all men liable for service were called with their arms to musters and from 1570 men who were both fit and keen underwent regular training in small units. Consequently it became the custom to distinguish in muster certificates between trained and untrained men and so arose the term 'Trained Bands'. This system of self defence was taken to New England by settlers, an example being the churchwarden of St Georges in Fordington, Anthony EAMES (1595-1686) who trained in the Militia in England before emigration in 1633 to Charlestown and rose to Captain such a band at Hingham in Massachusetts.

In Stuart times in England many of the local militias ceased to be summoned but in some places, the more prosperous gentry raised their own volunteer forces. One problem of the age when firearms were replacing halberds and bills was to ensure that that all such arms brought to the musters had the same bore and used the same type of powder.

The Militia Act of 1757 aimed to create a more professional national military reserve. Records were kept, and the men were selected by ballot to serve for longer periods - typically 3 years. Uniforms and weapons were provided, and the force was 'embodied' from time to time for training. This Act resulted in the Militia lists of 1758 for Dorchester and Fordington which I have transcribed for this site and from the minutes of the Militia meetings in 1761 it can be seen that the Dorchester subdivision alone consisted of over 3,000 men. All men between the ages of 18 and 45 who were fit to serve were listed by the constables or tythingmen in each parish. In 1796 all men with more than a wife and one child were then crossed off the list as it was recognised that removal of the breadwinner would only result in his dependants seeking support from the overseers of the poor. When in 1798 the danger of invasion by the French seemed acute, the militia was increased and its organisation made more rigorous. By this time the cavalry units were known as Yeomanry to distinguish the from the infantry who were still called the Militia.
millesimo Latin - one thousand
Middlemarsh Middlemarsh is a tything in the parish of Mintern Magna
Militia Lists The Dorset History Centre provides the following background on these records:
The Lord Lieutenant for each county was responsible for arming, training and mustering able-bodied men When the Militia was raised, each county was given a quota of men and the Lord Lieutenant would allocate this number between the hundreds in his county
Lists of able-bodied men between 18 and 50 (after 1762 the age was lowered to 45) in each tithing were drawn up and from these lists the names of those who were to serve in the militia were selected by ballot. They typically list the following details (these particulars are often given for substitutes as well
name: residence : occupation :

Some versions of the lists may include age, height, marital status, remarks on infirmities or exemptions, and other family details. The History Centre notes that “Ministers of Religion, apprentices, doctors and parish officers were exempt from militia service.”
mistlen mistlen or mistlin is interpreted as meaning a medley or mixture. Explanation from: British History on Line 'Introduction', Calendar of wills proved and enrolled in the Court of Husting, London: Part 2: 1358-1688 (1890), pp. I-LIV.
mittimus a warrant from a Justice of the Peace committing a person to prison
mixon a dunghill
moiety a term often used in 17th Century Wills - legally meaning: 'A portion of something, typically half' [example Will of William Norman of Dorchester (1722-1805) ]
mort a slang term for a woman, a female vagabond
mortar, morter, mortiz A Mortar; vessel of hard material such as marble, brass, iron or stone, cup shaped, in which ingrediants were pounded with a pestle
Mountain Ash Road Mountain Ash Road is situated in West Fordington one of the newer streets between the Water Works and the Railway accessed off Martin's Road See 1901 OS Map of Dorchester.
mourning rings See Posie Rings below
Mr Mr. an abbreviation for Master and originally so pronounced. A title used to denote social class - in the Seventeenth Century it was a courtesy title for any man of respectable means
M.R.C.S. Member of the Royal College of Surgeons
M.R.D. MRD stands for Municipal Records of Dorcheste [Link to Municipal Records ]
Mrs Mrs (Mistress) The courtesy title for women of the status corresponding to that of men addressed as Mr., but throughout the seventeenth century applied to both married and unmarried women, and even through the eighteenth century to spinsters of mature age as a mark of respect. An example in Dorchester is Mrs Elizabeth Templeman who was buried at Holy Trinity on 20th July 1756 and we know from her Will that she was a spinster. Also Mrs Mary Shergold (1750-1840) of Dorchester who also left a will identifying her as a spinster.
'Mushroom Bridge' Mushroom Bridge is in Fordington Parish and connects Cuckolds Road across the river to Mill Street See 1886 Fordington Map [Use Zoom on your browser to increase magnification]
Nat: meaning nativity - usually found in parish registers following a baptism entry meaning 'born' e.g. "Holy Trinity Baptisms 1696 - Jann. 4 Josiah ye son of Mr Joseph Cooper Nat: 10.bris 30.o (i.e. born December 30th 1697)"
natus fuit Latin - found in parish registers = 'born has been' = 'has been born'
nephew nephew - until the end of the seventeenth century this word could mean a grandson, descendant or kinsman. The New and Complete Dictionary of the English Language published in 1775 states " The son of a brother or sister; a descendant, a grandson, but this sense has now grown obsolete"
nepkens napkins
"The New Inn" 1400 - Charter 57 John Jurdan - "Robert Belle, clerk, John Gouytz, and Robert Veel, executors of the will of John Syward, grant to John Jurdan and his heirs their tenement in Dorchester, situate in High Street opposite the 'New Inn' {ex opposiio noui hospicii), between the tenement of John Blount on the west, and the tenement of John Goulde on the east" , (MRD page 138)

1401 - Charter 76 John Jurdan grants to -----two burgages in Dorchester,of which one is situate opposite the 'New Inn' and one on the west of ----(MRD page 145)

1437 - Charter 477 Robert Rempsten of Purbec - grants two tenements ---- one tenement being on the north side of West Street, between a tenement called 'New Inn' on the east, and the cemeteryof the church of Holy Trinity on the West (MRD page 284)

1501 - Charter 551 Will of John Martin dated 17th Sept 1500 ----bequests -- To his wife Joan, a burgage and shop annexed, situate between the inn called 'le New Inn' on the east and the church of Holy Trinity on West ----(MRD page 311)

1547 - 1st August 'Letters patent of Edward VI for the sum of £149. 11s. 8d., the King grants to the Burgesses of Dorchester land s and burgages belonging to the Chantry of St Mary, founded in the church of Holy Trinity Dorchester, lately dissolved (including the 'New Inn' ) and 22 messuages and three gardens belonging toi the Fraternity of St Mary Dorchester lately dissolved 1 Aug 2 Edward VI Ref A18 (MRD page 589)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1851 Census living in South Street St Peters Parish Dorchester - William Harris head married aged 50 Victualler & Wheelwright born Fordington. [Note:- William harris bap Fordington St George 25th Dec 1800 married the widow Virtue barge at St peters Church in Dorchester on 29th July 1840]

1851 Census living at 'The New Inn' South Street William Harris Head Married aged 50 Victualler & Wheelwright born Fordington

1852 Slaters Directory, 'New Inn' - William Harris, South Street Dorchester

1861 Census Living at 27 South Street 'New Inn' St Peters Parish Dorchester - Edward WORTLEY Head Married Aged 41 Victualler born Salisbury with wife daughter + 2 Servants

1865 Harrods Directory Edward WORTLEY 'The New' (See advert left) 27 South Street (See Advert)

1871 Census living at 27 South Street "New Inn" St Peters Parish - William Darch Head Married Aged 49 Inn Keeper born Huish Champflower, Somerset, with wife 1 servant 4 lodgers

1875 Post Office Directory - William Darch, 'New Inn' & Coal Merchant, South Street

1881 Census living at South Street - Thomas Rendall Head Married aged 48 Inn Keeper born West Coker Somerset, with wife & 2 children 2 lodgers and a servant

1891 Census living at 27 South Street 'New Inn' - George Banks Head Married aged 55 Innkeeper born Battersea London with wife, & 3 daughters (one a barmaid). [Note:- He died aged 60 being buried at the Civic Cemeterey on 28th Jan 1897.]

1901 Census at 27 South Street - Thomas DUNKLEY Head married aged 43 Licensed Victualler born Dorchester with wife and 3 children and 2 boarders. [Note:-The marriage of Thomas Robert DUNKLEY (1857- ) to Rebecca BANKS at FStG Church on 03 Aug 1880]

1908 Probate Calendar - William Frederick Banks of New Inn South Street Dorchester Doirset Licensed Victualler died 21 March 1908. Admin to his widow Mary Jane Banks [Note:- William Frederick was the brother of Rebecca Dunkley]

1911 Census living at 'The New Inn' South Street - Mary Jane Banks Head Widow Innkeeper with 4 of her children a nephew a neice and boarder

New Sarum New Sarum refers to the City of Salisbury by charter of King Henry III in 1227.
"New Ship Inn" 1851 Census living at 47 High West Street 'New Ship Inn', Henry Gale Head Married aged 38 years Innkeeper born Winterborne Abbas

1852 Slaters Directory, 'New Ship Inn' - Henry Gale, High West Street Dorchester
New Year (start of) See comments under 'Calendar'
Nisi Prius court A trial court for the hearing of civil cases before a judge and jury
'Noah's Ark Inn' (or 'The Ark' ) Link to an account of The Old Malthouse in Fordington, part of which was renamed 'Noah's Ark Inn' in 1860. (Includes Picture)
noble a gold coin worth six shillings and eight pence - example the will of Elizabeth WHITE widow of Fordington who owes 7 nobles to Robert Rasker in 1607 and others
nonage The period of a persons immaturity or youth - used in Wills and Letters of Administration when the inheritance might be placed in trust and used for their education or payment delayed until they reached their majority or a specified age. The New and Complete Dictionary of the English Language published 1775 description:- Minority; the time of life before a person comes of age. An example is the will of Samuel Eyres written in 1672
nonagenaria (or nonagecius) Latin - nonaginta = 90 ; nonagesimus= 90th; I would welcome advice from someone who has studied Latin regarding the difference in pharses. nonagenaria seems to be a locally used latin phrase for nonagenarius i.e. a nonagenarian or a person aged between 90 and 99 years old. Examples for Dorchester from burials at Holy Trinity church include "John PALMER Nonagenarium November 9 1630" or "Gertrude Comfrey nonagenaria 16 March 1628/9" or that for "John Bailey nonagecius on 10 Feb 1636/7" which I think means aged 90.
non-conformist , quaker Non-conformist: Registers were indexed by Ancestry.com in August 2013 and are now available to view on line for those with membership. Tip go to card index and input 'non-conformist'. Do not omit the hyphen as the search engine is character specific. This gives you direct access to the 'England & Wales, Non-Conformist and Non-Parochial Registers, 1567-1970' file holding 2.5million records. many of these do not come up on general searches. What you input affects every search you do, for example input of 'visitation' as opposed 'visitations' brings up completely different listings of what is available (someting i reported in 2010!). Input of 'quaker' not 'quakers' will give you access to their new file added in Nov 2013 'England & Wales, Quaker Birth, Marriage, and Death Registers, 1578-1837, which holds over another 580,000 records.
Notary Public Official charged with writing down and certifying acts of the court
nou now
Noverint universi per prsents nos Latin phrase used at the start of many Letters of Administration where the first part of the Letter of Administration known as the 'Obligation' is usually written in Latin. The next part known as the 'Condition' is usually written in English. My latin leaves a lot to be desired but 'Noverint universi per prsents nos' is usually transcribed as 'Know all men by these presents that I ----(followed by the persons name)' I have also seen it transcribed as 'Let all take notice that by these presents I ---' The first persons name may also be written in Latin but will be repeated in English in the first part of the condition.
nuncupative

Law (of a Will or Testament) declared orally as opposed to in writing. Until 1838 these were testamentary intentions expressed by the decease's word of mouth before credible witnesses', who later made sworn statements before the probate court. By the Statute of Frauds, 1678, there had to be at least three witnesses who had heard the deceased's wishes spoken in his own house and during his last illness. They needed to have them written down within six days, and not proved until 14 days after the death. Examples are the will of James Pook of Fordington or Robert Anthony of Dorchester dated 8th June 1724 and the subsequent letter of Administration issued 1st Oct 1724 - see wills index - images available on Ancestry.com

Since 1838, nuncupative wills can be made only by soldiers on active military service, and by seamen at sea. Freehold land could not be devised by a nuncupative will, nor could a written will be revoked by one. Example of a nuncupative Will is that for Nicholas Purchase of Dorchester who died in 1620. Also in Wills Index are nuncupative wills for Thomas Lymington 20th Oct 1660; Mathias BRINE 10th March 1692; Christopher FOY 19th Nov 1692 ; John MILBORNE of Frome Whifield in Holy Trinity Parish in 1696; Jasper COLSON of St Peters 30 Dec 1726; Mary ROGERS of Blandford Forum 03 22 Aug 1736; Edmund BRYER 5th Oct 1770

nupti fuerunt (abbrev: nupt. nupsit) & nuptenant Latin for:-were married -- also -- nuptenant = "They are getting married"
ob. or (ob. s.p.) If used in a visitation record ob. stands for died. It is usually shown under a persons name as 'ob. s.p'. indicating that he was heir but died without children before inheriting so the estate passed to next eldest son.
octagenaria Latin - octagenaria = octagenarian, or a person aged between 80 and 89 years of age. An example in Dorchester is the burial at Holy Trinity Church Dorchester of "Agnes Brine Octagenaria October 5 1630"
"Old Crown Inn" 1851 Census living in Durngate Lane Dorchester - Joseph Blandimore [Blandamer] Head Married aged 48 Victualler Inn born Fordington {Also in Hunts Directory 1851]

1852 Slaters Directory, Old Crown Inn - Joseph Blandimore [Blandamer] , Durngate Street, Dorchester

"Old House at Home" 1871 Census living at [54] Durngate Street 'Old House at Home' Dorchester - George Pitfield Head Married aged 26 Tailor & Licensed Victualler born Fordington
[Note Picture right of George Pitfield (1844-1917) Innkeeper of the 'Three Mariners' in High East Street by 1865 and & Innkeeper here of the Old House at Home by 1871 until 1877 when he left to take over running the Bulls Head on Fordington Hill]

1875 Post Office Directory - George Pitfield, beer retailer Durngate Street [Note:- George Pitfield left the Old House at Home in 1877]

1881 Census Durngate Street - C. Galpin Head aged 75 Beerhouse Kepper born Norfolk [Note:- Caroline Brooks/Galpin (1806-1889) an annuitant who was living in the Inn as a boarder in 1891, appears to have taken over running the 'Old House at Home' in 1877 when George Pitfield left. See Will of Robert Galpin (1802 - 1859) Maltster & Beer Retailer of Dorchester and Fordington for more information about her. She died in 1889 when Thomas Vine is shown to be in charge.]

1889 Kellys Directory - Thomas Vine, Durngate Street 'Old House at Home Public House', commercial

1891 Census living at Durngate Street, 'Old House at Home' - Thomas Vine Head married aged 34 Publican and Carpenter, born Evershot, with wife 3 children 2 sisters and 2 lodgers

1895 Kellys Directory - Thomas Vine , 'Old House at Home Public House', 16 Salisbury street.
"Old Ship Inn"

Old Ship Inn dorchester The Old Ship Inn still at Number 16 and 17 High West Street. (Note:- oldest pub in Dorchester built c1600 (picture by Mal Nichols) Much of the original front elevation including the second floor original oak windows remain. A section of the mantel from the original fireplace is now in the Dorchester Museum displayed with some original oak paneling taken from the wall.)

1600 British History On-Line Dorchester Pages 104-132 - "Old Shi Inn" - was built in c.1600; it has been much altered in modern times, and only original features surviving are two windows on the upper floor of the street front; these are four and five lights respectively with oak frames and mullions. An old plaster overmantle and panneling have been removed to the Dorset County Musem

1629 - Extract from 'Fire From Heaven' by David Underdown page 72 - " In 1629 there were thirteen licensed alesellers in the town, a number that grew to around twenty ten years later. Some of them kept large and impressive establishments like the 'George' the 'Antelope' the 'Crown' and the 'Rose'. 'The Ship' kept by William Wilson was somewhat less respectable, to judge by the number of reports of disorders ther, but such things were not unknown even at the 'George' "

1637- Fire from Heaven - page 96 Brief mention of 'Ship Inn'

1846 - 30th April - Entry in Salisbury and Winchester Journal for Sunday 2nd May 1846 - Died April 26th at Dorchester Mr. George ADAMS late of the Ship Inn, in that town.

1851 Census living at High West Street 'Old Ship Inn' , Charles Sergeant Head married aged 36 years a Victualler born Frampton Dorset with wife and son + 4 visitors (boarders). A son William Sargent was bap HT 26 Mar 1851 occupation of father Publican.

1861 Census living at 17 High West Street at 'Old Ship Inn' Holy Trinity Parish - George New Head Married Aged 40 Victualler born Alton Pancras with wife and 2 children + 3 boarders and Seravnt The Innkeeper in the 1891 Census was Richard WALTERS aged 43 native of Coryton in Devon

1865 Harrods Directory - George New 'Old Ship' 17 High West Street

1866 7 July 1894 Southern Times and Dorset County Herald - 'Old Ship Inn' briefly mentioned during the inquest into the death of David Lester.

1871 Census Living at 17 High West Street Holy Trinity Parish at "Old Ship Inn" - George New Head married aged 50 Innkeeper born Alton Dorset, with wife 5 children 4 Lodgers

1875 Post Office Directory - George New 'Old Ship Inn' High West Street

1881 Census living at 16 and 17 High West St 'Ship Inn' - George New head married aged 64 Inn Keeper a native of Alton in Dorset, with wife 4 children, 13 boarders (of which 12 were Militiamen)

1889 Kellys Directory 1889 - Michael Walsh Old Ship Public House 16 High West St Dorchester

1891 Census living at 16 and 17 High West Street "Old Ship Inn" - Richard Walters married Publican aged 43 with his wife a neice and a servant and 1 lodger

1895 Kellys Directory Richard Walters 'Old Ship Inn' 16 High West Street

1915 Kellys Directory Richard Eminson 'Old Ship Inn' 16 High West Street

orerrable arable as in 'arable pasture'

Overseers of the Poor

[Ancestry.com Main File = 'Dorset, England, Poor Law and Church of England Parish Records, 1511-1997'

Before the reformation the care of the poor was the responsibility of the Church i.e. the monaseries and the parish clergy. In fact one third of the parson's tithes were intended to be given to the poor. When the monasteries were dissolved the problem of relieving the poor became acute and the clergy were ordered to collect alms for poor people. An act of 1572 created Alms collectors and supervisors of Labour of Rogues and vagabonds in each parish. People who did not give alms could be compulsary assessed. In 1597 the two offices were combined under the title 'Overseers of the Poor' who was an official that required the approval of the Justices of the Peace. By the great poor law act of 1601 churchwardens became ex-officio Overseers of the Poor, together with those approved by the Justices. One of their number was appointed executive officer of the Overseers and looked after the funds raised by parochial rates. From 1691 the Overseers were obligued to keep a record of his disbursements and distribution of clothing etc .

His rate books list the sums collected from parishioners according to the value of their properties. Where records have survived this is a good way of identifying the wealthy in each parish and you can even establish a pecking order over time. These lists were generally made annually so where your ancestor had some wealth and is listed you can get an approximate idea of when they were in the parish. As owners of property it may also be worth checking for land records, and wills.

The Overseers accounts are usually split into two lists each month. The first will list those in the parish in receipt of relief each month. The second list often headed as 'Extra' or 'Extraordinary Payments' for the month covers all other expenditure. Included in this latter listing will be any payments made to bury the poor. Where I have located them in Fordington I have added notes to the burial record with the appropriate image page number in the record on ancestry.com. What the overseers paid for, and exactly how they are described, differed but you will often find entries in the accounts for:- laying the person out, (the corpse was stripped, washed and dressed in a clean shroud to be as presentable as possible). Cloth e.g.Flannel for a shroud, the expense of making it, an affidavit, a waking which was an all night vigil (often by a close friend rather than family) by the corpse in the church. The cost of making the coffin. In Fordington in 1818 there were often entries for 'Clark and Saxon's bill'. This seems to relate to church officials the 'Clerk and Sexton' the former for ringing the church bells at the funeral and the latter for digging the grave. The cost of a black cloth, which would be draped across the coffin, bearers (i.e. pall-bearers to carry the coffin into the church, often with separate entries for beer for the bearers and/or the ladies laying out the corpse. I have even seen the cost of a 'Barrow' or 'Cart' to transport the corpse back to the parish as they died whilst away working).

If your ancesters were in receipt of weekly poor relief the amount usually reflected how big a family he was supporting which is why payments differ. You may well also find entries in the Extra listing when they were bought items such as a new coat, a shirt, a shift, a pettycoat, a pair of breeches or a pair of shoes. When individuals who normally worked but became ill they received no pay so they were often supported by the Overseers for a few weeks until they recovered and their name will appear in the Extra accounts with the word 'sick' after it followed by the amount, normally the basic minimum paid for an individual for a week e.g. 1s. Another common entry on the same basis was when they had 'no work', many were laid off in the winter.

The Accounts list anything they paid; e.g. women in the final stages of pregnancy would be paid for their 'lying in' and sometimes a 'midwife'. Poor children were sometimes apprenticed from as early as 7 years old so apart from the cost of obtaining the indenture they might also be bought a new coat or a pair of shoes etc. Ever since the advent of The Godly Community in the days of Rev.John WHITE, the capable poor were put to work to help cover the cost of relief, but also to try to teach them a trade so that they could support themselves. Overseers in Fordington and Dorchester were therefore active in trying to get them work. This was generally easier during the growing season as Dorchester and Fordington was surrounded by 2,200 plots of land covering 3,000 acres (Fordington Fields). Many were simply found jobs as agricultural labourers and they even owned some plots for this purpose. They also taught wood carving to the same end.

For those with access to ancestry.com they have imaged many of these records which can be accessed via the 'card catalogue' [Search just for 'Dorset' - Then select the file 'Dorset, England, Poor Law and Church of England Parish Records, 1511-1997' - Then the Parish e.g. 'Fordington, St George' - The at the bottom of the image insert the approprate 'image page number' I have quoted. As at June 2021 the Poor Law images are not indexed so they will not appear during name searches and you can't therefore automatically attach the images to your tree. What you can do is, once you have found an image, save it onto your computer and then upload that image to your tree as you would a photo. Finally If you have the burial image you can scan earlier images to see whether your ancester was in receipt of regular relief or bought various items.
Pallington Pallinton is a village 1 mile east of Tincleton in Dorset
pane or pann pan as in cooking pan
pannitor panniter - a clothier or draper
Parish A township or group of townships under the administration of a single priest who was originally paid by tithes on the produce of the parochial area, and who was under the supervision of a bishop. In England parishes date back to before the Conquest, being first mentioned in AD970, but did not appear in their full form until the second half of the fourteenth century. The Tudor Monarchs found parishes a more practical instrument of local government than the manor, and began to place civil responsibilities on them, of which the most important was the care of the poor
Parish Registers Before the reformation some monasteries noted births occuring in the leadinglocal families, but there was no standard, countrywide system for keeping such records. In 1536 an attempt was made to start parish registers, but it finally became effective only as a result of a mandate of 5th Sep 1538. The registers were to be entered up weekly, and were often kept on loose sheets of paper, so it is not suprising that only about 800 registers still exist from as early as 1538. In 1555 and 1557, under Mary I, bishops were required to see that the sponsors were named in baptismal entries, but this ceased under the next reign in 1558. In 1598 Queen Elizabeth I approved an order of 25th Nov 1597 that registers be kept in parchment booksand that all the old register entries to be copied into such volumes. The clergy were however given the option of starting from 1558 (the beginning of the Queen's reign). The earliest surviving entry in Registers for St Georges Church in Fordington is in 1557 but 1579 to 1585 are missing and there are many gaps in the records after that. Registers for All Saints and St Peters only survive from after the Civil War in 1653. Registers for Holy Trinity are more complete starting from 1559 the start of the Queen's Reign.
parochie Latin for:-of the parish (of)
partlett (patlett; abbreviated to ptlet) The partlett was originally a small yoke of cloth to cover the low square necklines of the Tudor period. It was worn on the outside of the garment and often made of the same material as the dress, but it could be made of other materials and highly decorated. Between the Tudor and Elizabethan period it migrated from the outside of the dress to be worn inside but over the corset. In Elizabethan times the better off used it to protect the ruff from the face and neck but in others it was plainer and served a similar purpose to the kerchief.
payre or (apayer) a pair, two of
pcell abbreviated form of parcell as in parcel-gilt meaning part gilt, usually on the inside of a salt for example
peck or (peake, pecke, peke, peyck) a measure of capacity for dry goods equal to a quarter of a bushel (2 imperial gallons) often used as a measure of oats for horses
peculiar jurisdiction (Fordington) Wiltshire, England, Wills and Probate, 1530-1858 Wills before 1858 were generally proved in the church courts, of which there was a hierarchy extending from an individual parish up to the Archbishop of Canterbury. The ministers of some parishes had a right to prove the wills of those of their parishioners who had property solely in their parish - known as a peculiar jurisdiction. This could be 'inhibited' by the Dean or Bishop at certain times.Wills could be written for males beginning at age 14 and females at age 12. In 1837 the age was changed to 21 for both men and women, although in the case of women, these were primarily unmarried or widowed women, since a woman’s property by law was the property of her husband until 1882. Unlike Dorchester, records of Fordington Wills came under the peculiar jurisdiction of the Dean of Sarum and are therefore held at the Wiltshire Archives. These have now (2019) been imaged on ancestry.com.
p'fect Pfect: abbreviated form of 'perfect' often used in Wills.
pen a female swan - whose feathers were used to create quills hence 'quill pen' and a 'pen knife' was the knife used to cut the feathers into quill pens
p Ban:
p Licen
"p Ban:" or "p Ban Nupt:" are Latin abbreviations for "per bannos nupti fuerunt" meaning 'were married by banns' - also
"p Licen" or "p Licen Nupt:" are Latin abbreviations for "per licentiam nupti fuerunt" meaning 'were married by licence'
perch a measure of length especially of land, equal to a quarter of a chain or 5½ yards - also called a pole rod. Old Land Apportion and Tithe maps often refer to measures of land simply by the letters 'a' (meaning acre) 'r' (rood) and 'p' (square perch). A square perch was equal to 160th of an acre
perukemaker [peruke maker or perriwig maker] perukemaker = one who makes periwigs - periwig comes from the Franch peruque - a cap of false hair worn by men. EXAMPLES:- John Martin the elder and his son John Martin the younger are both recorded as perukemakers in Dorchester on a Letter of Administration granted 21st Jan 1750. John Kerby from Lyme Regis is recorded as perukemaker in the Militia return for the Dorchester Subdivision of the Militia for the year 1762 . Thomas Purse of Fordington is recorded as a Peruke Maker when he acted as security for Mary Bartlett on a letter of Administration granted on 1st Oct 1798 to administer her husband John Bartlett's estate. Peter Buckland of Dorchester a beneficiary under the will of Ann Clines dated 12th May 1780 is recorded as a perukemaker
pes or pese piece as in each
pettie coate or (petycot, peticote, peteycote) Petticoat - The modern term for petticoat is an underskirt which is not seen which then would have been called a shift. 15th to 18th Century petticoats were termed an under skirt because it went under an apron or a top skirt. There were several reasons for wearing petticoats. One reason was practical: Petticoats added body to the skirt and kept the women who wore them warm. But wearing petticoats was usually done to keep in fashion, especially in the seventeenth century. Once women quit using farthingales, or stiff hoops, to add body to their skirts, they turned to petticoats to do the job. Petticoats worn for warmth were made of wool or cotton, while those worn for fashion were made of taffeta, satin, linen, or a combination of starched fabrics. Petticoats were gathered at the waist and flared outward at the hem. Many were highly ornamental, featuring layers of ruffles, trimming, and lace. Most of the trimming was along the bottom edges, the part most likely to be seen. Beginning in the late seventeenth century women pinned up their outer skirts, allowing the petticoats to be seen. For the widow of a Yeoman petticoats would have been to the ground, and for the more wealthy may have had a short train at the back. Even working class ladies usually had some sort of trim on the petticoat and many were padded for warmth. Red petticoats seem to have been popular, even among puritans
pewterer Pewterer - one who works in pewter, an artificial metal used to make plates and dishes for the table
pfect or perfet abbreviation for 'perfect', often used in an Inventory of Goods attached to administration of a Will
pharmacopolam An apothecary - one who prepares medicines. Example John Morey alias Wilse of Dorchester a barber by trade the nephew and next of kin of Frances Ffildew spinster see letter of administration of her estate 14th July 1709
'The Pheasant' 1891 Census living at 16 High East Street 'The Pheasant' Frederick J Barrett Head married aged 27 Licensed Victualler born Dorchester, with wife, visitor, 2 servants
phillip (female) Today we would call a male child PHILLIP and a female child PHILLIPA. In the 16th and 17th centuries in Dorchester and Fordington however PHILLIP could be a male or female child and I have given some examples where it was used for females below:-
    (1) On 10th May 1568 Phillip Overy a widow married John Shepparde in Holy Trinity. Initially I thought this was just a clerical error for Phillipa but she was buried at Holy Trinity on the 4th August 1569 again referred to as 'Phillip the wife of John Sheppard
    (2) Phillippe Longe married John Narton at Holy Trinity church on 3rd April 1611
    (3) Powerstock Dorset Parish Register - William WHITE and Phillip WAYE were married 14th Sep 1612
    (4) Philipp Shepherd a widow was buryed the 28th of August 1615 at Holy Trinity church. She was the daughter of William Lawrence a yeoman of Fordington and married Roger Shepherd at Winterbourne Whitchuch on 11th Oct 1636.
    (5) Philipp the daughter of John Watercombe was baptized the fifth day of Maye 1616 at Holy Trinity church
    (6) Philipp sonne (sic) daughter of William Mrtin June 12 1630 & buried as his daughter on 14th June 1630 at Holy Trinity church
    (7) Philip Paule married John Birche at Holy Trinity Dorchester on 12th February 1635
    (8) In the Will for Christian Lawrence Widow of Fordington in 1663 there is a bequest to 'my dafter [i.e. daughter] Phillip Shepard.
"Phoenix Inn" (or Phoenix Tavern or Phoenix Commercial Inn)

The Phoenix Inn is situated in All Saints Parish 16 High East Street

1654 Will of Leonard MILLER the Elder Gentleman of Fordington dated 1st July 1654 proved 14th Sep 1654 "To wife Agnes my messuage etc called 'The Phonix' within the parish of All Saints in Dorchester in the tenure of Charles ALLEN and I give the said Agnes the yearly rents due of my house called the Chequer and for my house in the tenure of Peter FFILDEWE"

1737 Burgage Rate for the Parish of All Saints in Dorchester (MRD Page 694) shows that Mr Ingram & Dawes were charged 1 shilling and 3 pence for their house (The 'Phoenix' )

1818 Will of William Pearce Maltster of Dorchester dated 15 Aug 1818 - "--also leashold property called or known by the name of the 'Pheonix Inn' all which properties lie within the parish of All Saints Dorchester to my wife and after her decease equally between his 2 children Mary the wife of Reverend Frederick Joseph Cox TRENOW and Ann PEARCE "

1830 Pigots Directory, 'Phoenix' , Publican George Galpin, High West Street Dorchester

1839 Roberts Directory - 'Phoenix Inn' , Publican William Churchill High East Street

1841 Census High East Street All Saints Parish Dorchester - William Churchill age 42 Innkeeper

1842 Pigots Directory, Dorchester Dorset, Page 121 under Taverns and Public Houses - 'Phoenix' [Blank], High West Street

1843 29 July Sherborne Mercury - Article concerning a theft by James Curtis and Richard Paul - Witness statment- " I am a porter in the employ of Messrs Jennings and Ford carriers who have a wareroom at the 'Phoenix Inn', Dorchester. On 29th June about seven in the evening I saw Curtis in the wareroom handing a bottle to Paul wh is a waggoner in Messrs Jennings and Ford's employ; I went to the door and saw Curtis come out with someting under his jacket; Curtis is ostler to Mr. Churchill the landlord of the 'Phoenix'; he went towards the stable --- etc etc

1844 Pigots Directory -'Phoenix' [Left Blank], High East Street, Dorchester + a Carrier John Thomas operated out of the Phoenix

1851 Census High East Street 'Phoenix Inn' , Francis Oliver married age 57 born Fordington Innkeeper

1852 Slaters Directory, 'Phoenix', Francis Oliver High East street - also mentions under Carriers by Railway Jonathan Crocker from the 'Phoenix Inn'

1861 Census living at 'Phoenix Inn' 16 High East Street - Sarah Wiltshire Widow aged 56 born Preston Dorset + 4 children and a Servant

1865 - Thursday 2nd Feb - Dorset Chronicle Anniversary Gatherings - On Wednesday 1st the members of the Improved Order of Old Friends held its first anniversary dinner at Host Barrett's, the 'Phoenix Inn', Dorchester, when upwards of 60 sat down to a repast which reflected great credit on the establishment, everything being so arranged that "enough and to spare" was most visibly demonstrated etc etc long list of attendees

1871 Census living at 16 High East Street "Phoenix" - Joseph Barrett Head Married Aged 35 Licensec Victualler born Puddletown with wife son & servant

1875 Post Office Directory - Joseph Barrett 'Phoenix Inn', High East Street

1881 Census living at 16 High East Street - Joseph Barrett Head married aged 45 Licensed Victualler born puddletown, with wife, son, sister-in-law, 2 servants

1889 Kellys Directory - Joseph Barrett 'Phoenix Inn' High East Street

1891 Bridport News pub 30th Jan 1891 and All Saits Church Marriages BARRETT - RICHARDS Jan 26, at All Saints Church Dorchester. by Rev. G.Stone , Mr F.J.Barrett the Phoenix Inn, Dorchester, to Miss Ellen Richards of Melksham

phthisis Means wasting, and is the general term applied to that progressive enfeeblement and loss of weight that arise from tuberculous disease of all kinds, but especially from the disease as it affects the lungs source Blacks Medical Dictionary.
piche pot (pich pot or pan, pitch pot or pan) pot in which pitch was heated for marking animals with initials, or other identification marks
Piddle or Puddle (The River which gives its name to many parishes) The River Piddle (or Trent or North River) is a small rural Dorset river which rises next to Alton Pancras church (Alton Pancras was originally named Awultune, a Saxon name meaning the village at the source of a river) and flows south and then south-easterly more or less parallel with its bigger neighbour, the River Frome, to Wareham, where they both enter Poole Harbour via Wareham Channel. Many of the villages it passes through are named after it: Piddletrenthide, Piddlehinton, Puddletown, Tolpuddle, Affpuddle, Briantspuddle, Turnerspuddle. All but two of those names now contain "puddle" rather than "piddle"; a local tradition tells that the villages were renamed to avoid embarrassment before a visit by Queen Victoria but this is certainly not the case. The names appearing in parish registers clearly show use of both versions. The marriage registers of St Peters is a good example where there are lots of references to both from at leat 1700 and probably before that.
piece a gun or musket
pillowtie or (pillowtye, pilities; pillow bere, pillow beares, pillowberes) A 'pillowtie' is the outer cover of a pillow - now called pillowcases and as such is nearly always listed with other bedding such as a 'coverled' or 'rugg'. The word pillow was spelt in many different ways other examples e.g. from Rosmary Milward's Glossary of Household farming and trade terms that she took from probate inventories and as ever are affected by local accent. She quotes:- Pellowbere, pelo berys, pealobeare, pillow beer - or- pelowes, peylowes, pyllas, pillues, pelys. In Dorchester in the 16th & 17th centuries most of this cloth was imported from Holland by the Dorchester Merchants. Pillows for the more wealthy could be stuffed with down.
pinfald The person responsible for rounding up stray animals and confining them to the pound, or pinfold, of the manor. This was either an open (overt) enclosure or one roofed over (covert) or entirely enclosed like a stable or byre. Animals were released on payment of a fine by the owner. The parish officer in charge can be referred to as a Pinder, a Pinfald, Pinfold, Poundkeeper, Pounder, or Punder
pish (or psh or pishe) common abbreviation for "Parish" , used a lot on Dorchester and Fordington parish registers and Wills in 17th century
pitcher of withie a bundle of willows
Plasterer's Arms [West Fordington]

I have come across references to the "Plasterers Arms" a number of times but not located it in any official documents apart from as an address on various baptisms and marriages. I have alo now (July 2022) located references in local newspapers which show it was located close to West Mills in West Fordington and is I believe the building located on the north side of the start of Miller's Close shown on the 1886 Map of West Fordington.

1838: Article Dorset County Chronicle 1st Mar 1838. Headed "Grove Buildings, Upper Fordington Dorset To be sold at auction: --- Lot 1. All that substantial newly erected brick and stone built Messuage or dwelling house called and known as "Plasterer's Arms" containing a large dining room, three parlours, bar, kitchen, four large bedrooms, under ground celler, with coach house, stables and other out buildings thereunto belonging, a garden, and a pump with excellent water situate near the West Mills in the said parish of Fordington and now in the occupation of Mr.G.GULLIVER as tenant.

1838: Holy Trinity Marriages :- 25 Oct 1838 Thomas BROOKS of full age a widower a publican resident 'Plasterers Arms', Upper Fordington ; father John BROOKS a blacksmith & Farrier, married after banns to Mary Ann PAUL of full age a widow a cook resident High Wedst Street Dorchester father John BRAKE a Farmer 

1839: Article Dorset County Chronicle 21st Mar 1839 - Evidence given in a court case refers to "James Dowding - I am employed in the office of the Dorset County Chronicle ; in Nov last I had a stable near BROOKS's who keeps the 'Plasterers Arms' etc etc

1881: Christchurch West Fordington Baptisms: 10 July 1881 Bap of a child of George VEAL resident at 'Plasterers Arms' a mason by trade

1882: Article Dorset County Chronicle 7th Dec 1882 - NOTICE: West Fordington Dorchester: To be let from 25th Dec next from year to year or on lease -- All those four cottages and dwelling house lately called 'Plasterers Arms'and a coach house and Stable all adjoining, situate at West Fordington and now in the occupation of Mr. John WELLSPRING Builder or his under tenants.

1886: Christchurch West Fordington Baptisms: 4th July 1886 Bap of a child of Walter DIMENT resident at the 'Plasterers Arms'a Masons labourer

1887: Christchurch West Fordington Baptisms: 14th Oct 1887 Bap of a child of Joseph RICKETTS an Ostler (deceased) resident at 'Plasterers Arms'

1889: Christchurch West Fordington Baptisms: 27th Jan 1889 Bap of a child of John WYATT a labourer resident at the 'Plasterers Arms' [Note:- John WYATT was a drover and was buried at FStG 28th Feb 1889. His wife Frances Ellen remarried at the register office to Willia Hails in 1890]

1891: Article in Bridport News 9th Oct 1891 page 6 under heading Dorchester - Ejectment Order - refers to a warrant for the ejectment of Wm Drake a carpenter who "rented a room in the 'Plasterers Arms' in June last and has refused to give up possession" (only paid 2 of 13 weeks occupation).

1895: Albert Edward LEGG, beer retailer, abode 33 Miller's Close - Kellys Dorectory 1895

1900: - 3rd Nov Christchurch West Fordington Baptisms: Albert Edward LEGG resident at 33 Miller's Close Innkeeper

1901: Census West Fordington Christchurch : 33 Miller's Close, Albert LEGG (1867-1939) Married age 33 "Licensed Victualler for his own accout and working at home". Note:- by Kellys Directory for 1915 he is still at 33 Miller's Close but now shown as a pig dealer.

platelayer a person employed in laying and maintaining railway track.
plater or platur, or platter platter a flat dish or plate of pewter, wood or earthenwear
pleb Pleb. an ordinary person, especially one from the lower social classes. Extensively used in Alumni for Oxford and Cambridge Universities who enrolled pupils as "plebeians" as opposed to sons of gentry and aristocrats.
pleno jure with full right - origin Latin
"Plume of Feathers Tavern" (or Plume of Feathers Inn or The Feathers Inn "

1759 In the Will Dated Feb 1759 of Alice Jackson a Widow of Dorchester buried at St Peters 21st Feb 1759 and proved 1st March 1759 one of her beneficiaries was her daughter Susannah the wife of James POOK being left "all her estate term right and title in the house called the Plume & Feathers in Dorchester;"

1830 Pigots Directory, 'Plume of Feathers' , Publican John Tullidge, West Back Street Dorchester

1839 Roberts Directory, 'Plume of Feathers' , Publican William Tullidge, West Back Street Dorchester [Note William Tullidge was the son of John Tullidge previous innkeeper and took over running of the Plume of Feathers after his marriage in June 1837]

1841 Census Living at West Back Street Holy Trinity Parish - William Tullidge aged between 30 & 34, born Dorset Publican with wife 2 children & 2 servants

1842 Pigots Directory, Dorchester Dorset, Page 121 under Taverns and Public Houses - 'Plume of Feathers' William Tullidge, West Back Street

1844 Pigots Directory - 'Plume of Feathers' . William Tullidge, Back West Street Dorchester [Note:- William Tullidge left the Plume of Feathers 1847 and went to Winterborne Houghton as a yeoman farmer. He emigrated to Australia after the birth of his 5th child there in 1848.

1851 Census 109 Hospital Street 'Plume of Feathers Inn', William Topp Head Married aged 45 years Innkeeper & Farmer of 143 acres born Wiltshire Lavington with wife, sister-in-law, mother,4 servants & 1 visitor

1852 Slaters Directory 'Plume of Feathers' , William Topp, Back West street Dorchester

1861 Census living at 'Plume of Feathers' Princess Street, Holy Trinity Parish - John R.Taylor Head Married aged 39 Innkeeper Brewer Wine and Spirit Merchant born Ramsgate Kent with wife 5 children 2 servants

1865 Harrods Directory - John R.Taylor 'Plume of Feathers Inn' brewer, wine and spirit merchant , Back West Street.

1871 Census living at Princess Street "Plume of Feathers Inn" Holy Trinity Parish - John Richard Taylor Head, Married Aged 40 Brewing Victualler born Ramsgate, with wife, 2 daughters, 2 servants & lodger

1875 Post Office Directory - John Richard Taylor, 'Plume of Feathers' & brewer & wine & spirit merchants, Prince's St

1881 Census living at Prince's St Holy Trinity Parish 'Plume of Feathers' - John Richard Taylor, Head, Married, aged 59 Innkeeper, born Ramsgate, with wife & 2 servants

1889 Post Office Directory -Walter William Scriven at Prince's St, 'Plume of Feathers Public House', Commercial [Note:- 20 Feb 1889 - Mabel Florence daughter of Walter William & Bessie Scriven abode Dorchester, a Publican ]

1891 Census Living at Princes St 'Plume of Feathers' - Walter W Scriven Head Married aged 29 Publican born TRiverton Devon

1896 - Advert for wines and spirits Southern Times and Dorset County Herald page 8 : W.W.Sriven Plume of Feathers Dorchester

poldavis poldavis was a coarse sacking or sail cloth imported from the Normany ports [also known as Normandy canvas] in the 17th century via the port of Weymouth by Dorchester Merchants
Source: Page 38 Studies in Dorset History by Maureen Weinstock M.A.,F.R.Hist.S published by Longmans (Dorchester) 1953
Polly (Polley, Pollie) Nickname for Mary. In the Biography of William Cuming MD of Dorchester his friendship with Miss Mary (known as Polly) Oldfield is referred to. In some cases registered as a name it it's own right eg 'Polley Lavinia Pritchard' GRO Births 1898 3rd qtr King's Norton Worcestershire - she married Charles Joseph Bernard Christopher (1896-1944) who was born at Poole
pooles or (peeles, pelowes, peylowes, pelowys,) pillows as in 'ffeather pooles'.
pooke (also a cock of hay) A Pook is a heap or small stack of a crop especially of hay or grain that has been cut and is temporarily stored in the field during one stage of harvesting.
porringer See pottinger below
poorstock Parish of Powerstock including the chapelry of West Milton
pose propose
posie rings (posy, poesy. posey) Posie rings (sometimes spelled "posy ", "posey" or "poesy rings") are finger rings with short inscriptions on their outer surfaces. More rarely the inscription is on the inner surface. Link to pictures of posie rings
posnet (postenet, posnett) A small metal pot for boiling, with a handle and three feet, see a skillet
pottes Pots
potthookes or (pothokes) or (p. houkes) pot hooks were long iron rod with a hook either end usually about 2 feet long but various lengths used to suspend pots from the iron bar across the top inside of the fireplace above the fire for cooking
pottinger (porringer) A pottinger is an earlier form of porringer or small basin from which broth, soup or porridge (pottage) was eaten; often with one or two flat handles. Most 17th century Dorchester inventories do not specify what they were made of, but I have seen several which specify pewter. They could be made of other metals see Picture Link ; The poorer classes would have had pottingers made of wood.
Pound LanePound Lane: See also 'Pinfold'; shown on the 1901 OS Map of East Fordington joins Fordington Hill to Holloway Road; Named after Fordington Pound which stood here see John Speeds Map of Dorchester dated 1611 (index 'P')
pouter or pauter pewter as in pewter dish or charger Picture Link
praepositus The Reeve or chief representative of the tenants
praised appraised at £-- used extensively in inventories of 'household stuff' attached to wills or letters of administration to mean valued at £
prebendary honorary canon of the anglican church who receives a prebend or stipend drawn from the endowment or revenues of an Anglican cathedral or church. Link to a listing of Prebenary's for Fordington
precentor a minor canon who administers the musical life of a cathedral
premise; premised used in a lot of 17th century wills does not refer to a house or dwelling but to 'a previous statement or proposition in the will from which another is inferred or follows as a conclusion. origin from old french 'premisse'
presents (or prets or prsentes) legal term used in 17th century wills a lot e.g. "make and declare these presents to be my last will and testament". meaning the present writings, or this document, used in a deed of conveyance, a lease, and especially Letters of Administration to denote the document itself: e.g. Know all men by these presents
Prince' s Street in Dorchester

'Prince's Street' is in Holy Trinity Parish and runs parallel to 'High West Street' on the south side. It extends from 'West Walk Road' eastwards to 'Trinity Street'.

(See 1901 Map of Dorchester) --- 'Princes Street'. In 1901 it is bisected by 'Alington Street' which provides access to 'High West Street' to the north. The continuation of 'Allington Street' across 'Prince's St' becomes 'Somerleigh Road' and the Dorset County Hospital.

(See 1886 Map of Dorchester) --- 'Princes Street'. There is little change by 1901 except 'Allington Street' is not named, so might just be another part of Somerleigh Road.

See 1851 Census District 5a. ---- The Dorset County Hospital was built in Dorchester on land in 'West Back Street' (also called 'Back West Street') donated by a wealthy banker Robert Williams in 1839. Some of the houses standing on the site were adopted for use of the House Surgeon, Matron and Nurses and connected by a covered passage to the North wing. It received it's first patients in May 1841. Some time over the next decade the dominant presence of the Hospital caused the street to be called 'Hospital Street' and it is recorded as such in the 1851 Census. By 1861 it has been renamed as 'Princes Street'.

(See 1771 Map of Dorchester) --- In 1771 'Prince's Street' was called 'West Back Street' a name it retained right up to and including the 1841 Census. The roads/walks it connects were also called by different names . 'West Walk Road' was previously called 'The Old Walks' or 'Bowling Alley Walks' . 'Trinity Street' was previously called 'South Back Street'

(See 1611 Map of Dorchester) --- In 1611 there were no houses in what was to become 'West Back Street' only a lane providing access to enclosed fields within the ruins of the old Roman Walls.

pro hac vice Latin - (pronounced "pro hack wee-chay"), meaning "for this occasion" or "for this event", (literally, "for this turn") Often used in the legal profession but in Dorchester in the 18th century used by the clergy meaning an 'Officiating Minister' as the normal vicar/rector or curate was absent and had arranged for another to take his place - usually from one of the surrounding parishes. Examples include (1) marriage of James Hawkins and Katharine Davidge who were married at Holy Trinity Church Dorchester on 21-Nov 1774 by Harry Place the curate of Marnhull whose father & grandfather lived in Dorchester, (2) marriage of Robert Tite to Elizabeth Standage by William Floyer the curate of Bradford Abbas 21st Feb 1776 at Holy Trinity.
probat (latin abbreviation for probatum) probate or proving of a will
proctor proctor - historically meant 'a qualified practitioner of law in ecclesiastical and certain other courts' source Oxford Dictionary of English. The New and Complete Dictionary of the English Language by John Ash published 1775 states " A manager of another mans affairs, an attorny in the spiritual court ---etc".
pson Abbreviation for 'person'
psor Abbreviation for 'Pastor' or Minister
pte or pt abbreviation for 'part' often used in Wills - as in 'inherits one 3rd pte of my estate'
Puddle See Piddle
puter dish or (putter dish) dish made of pewter
Queens Arms Inn

The Queen's Arms were situated in Holy Trinity Parish Dorchester in 1696 was on the north side of High West Street but by 1807 in Pease Lane .

1613 - 6th Aug - Extract from 'Fire from Heaven' by David Underdown pages 4 and 5 - referring to the cost of rebuilding after the great fire of Dorchester on page 4 states "--- many properties remained in ruins for for years. The old 'Queen's Arms' in Durngate was empty for at least a year before it was rebuilt as the 'Green Dragon'. On page 5 he states "Robert Short needed only £40 to rebuild 'The Queen's Arms' --"

----------------------------------------------

1696, March 9. A messuage in Holy Trinity parish, on north side of High West Street, adjoining the 'Queen's Arms' on the east, is mentioned in a lease of this date Source (MRD page 711) (B. 64),

1737 Burgage Rate for the Parish of Holy Trinity in Dorchester (MRD Page 691) - Mr Robert Grundy's House ('Queen's Arms' )

1795 See Will of Sarah Besant Widow of James Besant Maltster & Brewer of Dorchester - Thomas Gatehouse Besant inherits ''Queen's Arms' in Holy Trinity Parish

---------------------------------------------

1807 12th August, the Corporation agreed to grant to William Bower, Esq., a lease of a dwelling house called the 'Queen's Arms' , in Pease Lane.

[1829 27 Apr - The Will of William Bower written 14th July 1827 and proved 27th Apr 1829 left "The Masons Arms" in trust to be sold - but when the properties were put up for sale however the sale particulars refer to the 'Queen's Arms' rather than the Masons Arms'?]

1830 Pigots Directory, 'Queen's Arms' , Publican David Brown, Pease Lane

1839 Roberts Directory, 'Queen's Arms' , Publican Samuel Edmunds, Pease Lane

1842 Pigots Directory, Dorchester Dorset, Page 121 under Taverns and Public Houses - 'Queen's Arms' Samuel Edmunds, Pease Lane

1844 Pigots Directory - Queen's Arms, Samuel Edmunds, Pease Lane, Dorchester

1851 Census living at 226 Pease Lane 'Queen's Arms Inn', William Brinson Head married aged 50 years Innkeeper born Beaminster with wife 2 children brother and 12 Visitors [Boarders]


1852 Slaters Directory - 'Queen's Arms' William Brinton, Pease Lane

---------------------------------------------

1865 Harrods Directory, 'Queen's Arms' James Cox, Durngate Street

Queens Head Inn

1757 01 Sep - Ale House Licence Issue to Leonard WINZAR of Forthington [Fordington] is this day licenced to keep a common Alehouse or Victualling-house in the Parish of Fordington ('at the sign of the Queens Head') for the term of 1 year from 29th Sep 1757. Leonard is bound over to owe to the King £10 to keep good order and Government and suffer no disorder to be committed , or unlawful games used in the said House, Yard, Garden, or Backside thereto belonging during the continuance of the licence. Bound with him as surities is David PHIPPARD and James ALLEN both of Forthington in the sum of £5 each.

1758 12 Sep - Ale House Licence as above issued to Leonard WINZOR, Thomas ROLLS and James ALLEN both of Forthington surities

1761 11 Sep - Ale House Licence issued to Leonard WINZOR at the sign of The Queens Head in Forthington for 1 year Leonard bound in the sum of £10 other surities Thomas ROLLS and James ALLEN both of Forthington in £5 each.

1762 15 Sep - Ale House Licence issued to Leonard WINZOR at the sign of The Queens Head Victualler in Forthington for 1 year Leonard bound in the sum of £10 other surities Moses BEDLOE and Benjamin TULLEDGE both of Forthington in £5 each.

1763 08 Sep - Ale House Licence issued to Leonard WINZOR at the sign (side line entry 'The Queens Head') Victualler in Forthington for 1 year Leonard bound in the sum of £10 other surities Moses BEDLOE and Joseph LOVELACE both of Forthington in £5 each.

1764 13 Sep - Ale House Licence issued to Leonard WINZOR at the sign (side line entry 'The Queens Head') Victualler in Forthington for 1 year Leonard bound in the sum of £10 other surities Moses BEDLOE and Joseph LOVELACE both of Forthington in £5 each.

1765 14 Sep - Ale House Licence issued to Leonard WINZOR at the sign of 'The Queens Head' Victualler in Forthington for 1 year Leonard bound in the sum of £10 other surities Thomas ROBERTS and David PHIPPARD both of Forthington in £5 each.

1766 13 Sep - Ale House Licence issued to Leonard WINZOR at the sign of 'The Queens Head' Victualler in Forthington for 1 year Leonard bound in the sum of £10 other surities David PHIPPARD and Samuel HELLARD both of Forthington in £5 each.

1767 12 Sep - Ale House Licence issued to Leonard WINZOR at the sign of 'The Queens Head' Victualler in Forthington for 1 year Leonard bound in the sum of £10 other surities Moses BEDLOE and Thomas ROBERTS both of Forthington in £5 each.

1768 17 Sep - Ale House Licence issued to Leonard WINZOR at the sign of 'The Queens Head' Victualler in Forthington for 1 year Leonard bound in the sum of £10 other surities Joseph LOVELACE and Moses BEDLOE both of Forthington in £5 each.

1851 Census John Brown Head Mar age 43 a Beer Retailer born Piddletown dirset with his wife Elizabeth age 41 born Rampisham & 4 children. [Note:- In 1841 John was a carrier and they lived in Holloway Fordington so does not appear to have been at the Queens head]

1861 Census Fordington- 'Queen's Head' Holloway, Elizabeth Brown, Head, Widow, Aged 51; Innkeeper, born Rampisham - 3 daughters 1 daughter-in-law (widow) 1 boarder with his wife & Son

1865 Harrods Directory - Elizabeth Brown, 'Quenn's Head Inn' East Fordington.

1866 25 Aug 1866 - Southern Times and Dorset County Herald - Inquest held at the 'Queen's Head Inn' Fordington [Link to newspaper report concerning the death by drowning of James Evans].

1868 26 Sep - Bridport News - Licence granted to Landlord W.J.SYMES after deferral following complaint from Police that bad characters were allowed to congregate there.

1875 Post Office Directory - James MEECH , 'Queens Head' , Holloway Row Fordington

1881 Article Southern Times and Dorset County Herald Sat 16th Apr 1881 - "The Licences of the following public houses were transferred as under:- 'The Railway Tavern', South Street, from John Pitfield to Thomas Grigg; Queens Head Fordington from James Meech to William Player; Queen's Own, Durngate Street from Henry Wilshire to Samuel Warren; Half Moon North Square from Henry J.J.Selway to Arthur Spicer."

1889 Post Office Directory - William Meader, Fordington 'Queen's Head Public House', Commercial

1891 Census living at Holloway Row 'Queen's Head' - James Haine Head Married aged 50 Innkeeper born Idcombe Somerset, with wife, neice, and at least 8 lodgers

Queens Own

1861 Census living at "Queen's Own" Durngatre St All Saints Parish - Jane Cox Head widow aged 52 Victualler born Corfe Castle + servant and 6 lodgers

1871 Census living in Durngate Street All Saints Parish John Wright Head Married aged 55 Licensed Victualler & Chelsea Pensioner born Ireland, with wife

1875 Post Office Directory - Thomas Adams - 'Queen's Own' Durngate Street

1881 Article Southern Times and Dorset County Herald Sat 16th Apr 1881 - "The Licences of the following public houses were transferred as under:- 'The Railway Tavern', South Street, from John Pitfield to Thomas Grigg; Queens Head Fordington from James Meech to William Player; Queen's Own, Durngate Street from Henry Wilshire to Samuel Warren; Half Moon North Square from Henry J.J.Selway to Arthur Spicer."

querent a law tern for a complainent, or a plaintiff. Source. The New and Complete Dictionary of the English Language: by jiohn Ash published 1775
quingentesimo Latin - five hundred
quart (quarte) quart - When listed in a kitchen inventory likely to be a tankard as they were often referred to as 'quarts' See Picture Link
quietus quietus - a latin phrase meaning at rest, peaceful, neutral, calm, quiet, or asleep. In Dorchester it was generally used on legal documentation by the Courts on Letters of Administration where 'a quietus' was a formal endorsement by the court to show that the administrator was properly bound with surities to the court, had lodged an Inventory at the Registry of the deceased estate and paid any necessary fees and was therefore safe from prosecution.
Rafe Rafe was a male Christian name, a variation on Ralph it was fairly common in 16th/17th century Dorchester. Examples:- Rafe PERIN had his daughter Rose baptised at Holy Trinity Dorchester 28th Jan 1615/6: Rafe ROBAT was Churchwarden at Fordington in 1619: Rafe CORBIN was buried at Holy Trinity 8th Jan 1626/7. Rafe MULLETT married Elizabeth LIE at Glanville Wootton in 1589. It was also a surname eg Edith RAFE married in Fordington in 1590.
'The Railway Tavern'

'The Railway Tavern' is located at 34 South Street Dorchester which is situated 3 houses up from the Royal Carriage Works at the old Roman South Gate through the surrounding wall of Dorchester and close to both the GWR and South Western Railway stations.(See 1886 Map of Dorchester. P.H.= Public House) 

1851 Census lliving at 'The Railway Tavern', South Street - John Lovelace Head Married aged 37 Carpenter Journeyman & Beer Seller, + wife, servant and 2 children

1861 Census Living at 34 South Street 'Railway Tavern' St Peters Parish - Samuel Head married Aged 58 Victualler & Currier born Plymouth Devon with wife 2 grand-daughters 8 Lodgers

1861 Weymouth Telegram - at the Railway Tavern South Street Dorchester -- Property of Mr Howe (long list) to be sold by Action on the premises by Mr W BRYER on Thursday June 20th 1861

1864 6 Jan Southern Times & Dorset herald - Article about a discharged soldier from the Royal Artillery charged with stealing £9. 3s from his father at Tolpuddle arrested at the Railway Tavern Dorchester.

1865 23 Sep Bridport News - Licensing Meeting --- Mr Weston again applied for a license to be grated to Mrs Sarah Hallett landlady of the Railway Tavern Dorchester.

1865 Harrods Directory - Benjamin Marshalsay 'Railway Tavern' 86? South street

1871 Census living at 34 South Street - William Browne Head married aged 40 Pensioner Publican born Blandford Dorset, with wife 3 children, visitor & Boarder

1875 Post Office Directory - Robert Forse, 'Railway Tavern' South Street.

1880 Article Southern Times & Dorset County Herald Sat 26th June 1880 (page 6). "At the Town Hall on Monday Mr.Alderma G.Curme and Mr Alderman G.J.G.Gregory had before them an application to transfer the license for the "Railway Tavern", South Street from Elizabeth Damon to George Pitfield, and another request to transfer the license of a beerhouse, Fordington, in Holloway Row to Elizabeth Billett, widow of the late Mr R.Billett. In each instance the application was granted."

1881 Census (3rd April) living at 34 South Street - Thomas Grigg (1857-1932) Head unmarried aged 24, Licensed Victualler born Coombe St Nicholas Somerset, with 2 neices one a child the other a bar maid.. (Jury lists from 1881-1886 all refer to him as an Inkeeper at 34 South street)

1881 Article Southern Times and Dorset County Herald Sat 16th Apr 1881 - "The Licences of the following public houses were transferred as under:- 'The Railway Tavern', South Street, from John Pitfield to Thomas Grigg; Queens Head Fordington from James Meech to William Player; Queen's Own, Durngate Street from Henry Wilshire to Samuel Warren; Half Moon North Square from Henry J.J.Selway to Arthur Spicer"

1884 - Article Southern Times 19 Apr 1884 - About George Clark being charged with stealing the umbrella of "Mr T.Grigg" of the 'Railway Tavern' which he sells for 8d in Princess Street.

1886 - Article Southern Times 13 Aug 1886 - About transfer of licences -- "and that of the Railway Tavern from T.Grigg to Hiram Edmunds.

1889 Kellys Directory - Hiram Edmunds, 34 South Street 'Railway Tavern' Commercial

1891 Census living at 34 South Street 'Railway Tavern' - Hiram Edmunds head married aged 34 born Moreton Dorset, with wife Elizabeth (nee Maine whom he married at All Saints Church in 1883) and 2 children.

1892 - Article Southern Times etc - 5th Nov 1892 - Money stolen from till - Elizabeth wife of Landlord 'Railway Tavern' gave evidence.

1893 26 Dec 1893 - Weymouth Telegram - The 'Railway Tavern' South Street Dorchester - Article about the Enlargement and Improvement of Premises by Proprietor H,EDMUNDS

1894 - Article Bridport News 1 June 1894 - " -- applied for the transfer of the licese of the Railway Tavern South Street from Hiram Edmunds to John Wm. Richards formerly of Wareham

1895 - Kellys Directory - Richards, John W of 'Railway Tavern' Public House 34 South Street

1895 - Article Bridport News - 2nd Aug 1895 - "Dorchester ---applied for the transfer of the license of the 'Railway Tavern', South Street from John Wm Richards to Nicholas Geo. Baggs (formerly coachman in tye employ of Mr Sowden Payne of Weymouth - granted"

1915 - Kelleys Directory - Dowle, Herbert 'Railway Tavern' 34 South Street

Railway Terrace Railway Terrace was built at the very end of the 19th Century by the Pope brewing family and is on Monmouth Road
reade reed (not to read)
Recorder a barrister appointed to serve as a part time judge
The Red Cow Public House

Link to watercolour painting by Henry Joseph Moule (1825-1904) of the Red Cow Public House in Fordington painted on 7th May 1891

1898 13 Nov - Robert & Frances Ann BALLARD gave the "Red Cow" as their abode at the baptism of their son Robert Henry BALLARD

"Red Lion Tavern" (or Red Lion Inn)
(or The Red Lyon)

1737 Burgage Rate for the Parish of St Peters Dorchester (MRD Page 692) Joshua Brook's House (The Red Lyon) Rate 9 pence - [Note:- Joshua Brooks was the brother of Mary Channing (1687-1705/6) who was burnt at the stake for poisoning her husband. ]

1791 June 13 - The Market House (MRD Page 499) A proper market house being wanted for this Borough and no place being found more proper to erect the same on than the west pinnion end or gable end of the 'Red Lion Inn' in the parish of St Peters to the east end of the Church passage and extending from North to South to the North end of the second butchers shops on the west and east sides of the Shambles.

1829 27th Apr - Will of Mr William Bower written 14th July 1827 and proved 27th Apr 1829 left "The Red Lion" in trust to be sold [Note:- See William BOWER (1746-1829) ]

1830 Pigots Directory, 'Red Lion', Publican John Pulman , High East Street Dorchester

1851 Census living at 29 High West Street Holy Trinity Parish and 'Red Lion Inn' Dorchester, William BENNETT; Head; Mar; 44; Tailor Master employing 1 man; Dorset Dorchester, with wife daughter + 2 Servants

1861 Census living at Church Street 'Red Lion Inn' All Saints Parish - Thomas Dewland Head married aged 44 Plumber & Glazier? born Charminster with wife & daughter a servant & 2 lodgers (none described as running the Inn?

1865 Harrods Directory - Thomas Dewland, 'Red Lion', and a painter, Church Street

1871 Census living at Church Street 'Red Lion' All Saints Parish - Thomas Dewland Head Widower aged 55 Licensed victualler born Charminster with a servant

1875 Post Office Directory - Thomas Dewland, 'Red Lion', Church Street

rede red as in a 'rede rugg' for 'red rug' on the floor
redounde to come back, by reaction - legal term seen used mainly in 16th century Dorset Wills
reek a ruck; a heap; a stack; or a pile of: As used in 'a reek of corn' or 'a reek of wheat' or 'a reek of hay'
reeve officially the foreman of the villeins - and later the copyholders - of a Manor. He was the official with whom the Lord's Bailiff dealt. He was elected by the tenants, but could pay to be excused his office. In small villages, the reeve was also often the constable.
regnal years I have given an explanation and a listing of regnal years in the 'Bailiffs of Dorchester' file
relieving officer "The Poor Law Amendment Act of 1834" ended parochial responsibility for the poor. Parishes were amalgamated for such purpose into Poor Law Unions and Governed by Poor Law Guardians. The Reieving Officer was employed by the Union to receive applications for relief and make payments when these had been approved by the Board of Guardians. They also issued orders to admit people to the workhouse.
reparens reparations
rescue to take men or animals from the custody of the constable or other official
reversion particularly used in 17th century Wills - reversion is a right in property law and refers to the interest of a party to whom the property will revert after the death of the present posesser - - i.e. a right to succession. Source The new and complete dictionary of the English language by John Ash published 1775
R.H.A. R.H.A. Abbreviation for 'Royal Horse Artillery' who were often stationed at Fordington Barracks
right heires 'right heirs' is a phrase often used in 17th century Dorchester Wills to mean heirs lawfully begotton - i.e. not illegitimate
Rodden Rodden is a hamlet within the parish of Abbotsbury Dorset
rood a measure of land area equal to a quarter of an acre. Old Land Apportion and Tithe maps often refer to measures of land simply by the letters 'a' (meaning acre) 'r' (rood) and 'p' (square perch). A square perch was equal to 160th of an acre
'The Rose Inn' 1629 - Extract from 'Fire From Heaven' by David Underdown page 72 - " In 1629 there were thirteen licensed alesellers in the town, a number that grew to around twenty ten years later. Some of them kept large and impressive establishments like the 'George' the 'Antelope' the 'Crown' and the 'Rose'. 'The Ship' kept by William Wilson was somewhat less respectable, to judge by the number of reports of disorders ther, but such things were not unknown even at the 'George' " - Also see page 178 further reference to The Rose Inn

1635 - See 1629 above: Further reference to Rose in 1635, same page 72
rotten sheep rot is a disease of sheep caused by liver fluke; a rotten sheep is one infected with rot. Example Inventory of goods of John OLIVER of Fordington His Will Dated 17 May 1573, Proved 31st July 1573 Inventory separate document in Wiltshire Archives images available ancestry.com
rother beasts (rother cattle) rudder beasts rother beasts are horned cattle, or black cattle. Source: The New and Complete Dictionary of the English Language By John Ash published 1775
"Royal Oak Inn"

(Also Royal Oak Hotel or Royal Oak Commercial Inn)

The Royal Oak Inn - Location 20 High West Street in Holy Trinity Parish Dorchester (See Advert 1865)

1708 In his Will dated 5th September 1708 Richard Brooks a wagoner of Dorchester left his "messuage burgage and Inn with the appurtenances in the parish of Holy Trinity in Dorchester aforesaid called the 'Royal Oake" in trust for his son Richard Brooks to receive the rents etc for life.

1737 Burgage Rate for the Parish of Holy Trinity Dorchester (MRD page 691) - George Brown Esq (for the 'Royal Oak')

1740-1773 - Edmund Bower (d.1773) is known to have become the Inkeeper of the 'Royal Oak' possibly around the time of his marriage in 1740. His will dated 19th Nov 1771 and proved on 17th May 1773 leaves the 'Royal Oak' to his son William Bower

1779 25th Sept - Mr William Bower to pay 2 shillings a year for erecting a Bow window in the front of his house called the 'Royal Oak' Source MRD p497. William Bower died in 1829 being buried at Holy Trinity Church Dorchester and left an extensive will [Note:- See William BOWER (1746-1829) ]

1829 27th Apr - Will of Mr William Bower written 14th July 1827 and proved 27th Apr 1829 left "The Royal Oak" in trust to be sold

1830 Pigots Directory, 'Royal Oak', Publican Matthew Dufall, High West Street Dorchester [Note:- See account of the life of Matthew Dewfol (1771-1843) ]

1839 Roberts Directory, 'Royal Oak Inn', Publican Fred. Bennett, High West Street Dorchester

1841 Censis Living in [West back Street Dorchester - Matthew Dufall aged 70 to 74 Beer House keeper] : Frederick Bennett aged 25 to 29 Publican living High West Street ,with wife & daughter +5 servants

1842 Pigots Directory, Dorchester Dorset, Page 121 under Taverns and Public Houses - 'Royal Oak' Frederick Bennett, High West Street

1844 Pigots Directory - 'Royal Oak', Frederick Bennett, High West Street Dorchester

1845 - Salisbury and Winchester Journal Sat 12th July 1845 - The returm match of fives was on Thursday last played at the Barrack Court, Dorchester between Mr. Frederick Bennett, landlord of the "Oak Inn", Dorchester and Mr. Thorne a celebrated player of Stoke-under-Ham Somerset. The match excited much interest in the town and neighbourhood and there were numerous spectators. The betting was all in favour of the Dorchester man who won the match easily, the Stoke man only scoring eleven in the two innings of 21 each, A marquee was pitched and a sumptuous repast was provided by the worthy host of the Canteen, Mr Charles Hodges.

1851 Census High West Street Dorchester - 'Royal Oak Inn', Frederick Bennett Head Married aged 37 Victualler & Farmer born Dorchester

1852 Slaters Directory - 'Royal Oak', Frederick Bennett, High West Street.

1856 26th Jan - HT Baptisms Louisa daughter of John Upshill & Anna Maria Trowbridge of West Back Street Dorchester a Publican,

1865 Roberts Directory - George Read, 'Royal Oak Commercial Inn' 20 High West Street (See Advert)

1871 Census living at 20 High West Street 'Royal Oak Inn' Holy Trinity Parish - George Read Head married aged 52 Licenced Victualler born Stickland, with wife 3 children, 3 servants 1 boarder & 14 lodgers

1875 Post Office Directory - Alfred Read, 'Royal Oak Inn', 20 High West Street

1881 living at 20 High West Street 'Royal Oak' Holy Trinity Parish - Charles Read head married aged 27 Licensed Victualler born Weymouth, with wife, 14 Boarders (10 of which Dorset Militia)

1889 Post Office Directory - David Marjoram, High West street, 'Royal Oak Public House', Commercial

1891 Proprietor David Marjoram

rugge or (rugg) Rug: A term generally found in Dorchester & Fordington Inventories in the chamber off the hall (usually the bed chamber) and included in a general description of bedding. For example the inventory for Tamzine Windsor 1649 states " In the Lodging Chamber one father [feather] bed one Bolster one Rugg two Pillowtyes [pillowcovers or pillowcases] one Lynning tester cloth and Bedsteed [bedstead] one pare [pair] of sheete praised at £3. 8s. 0d ". used in this way it refers to a large piece of thick woollen fabric used as a covering on the bed rather than on the floor. The 'Dictionary of Traded Goods (1550-1820)' indictaes that some of these were very big. Blankets which generally came in pairs were rarely coloured whilst ruggs are listed singly and often green or red.
sacers saucers. Although cups and saucers existed I have never seen any listed in Dorchester inventories. See "drinking vessells 17th century" explanation given above. When sacers or saucers are listed on their own in a kitchen inventory, but alongside ' chargers' or 'pottingers' for example, they are more likely to be a type of dish See Picture Link
salt (silt, silts) Salts were often quite elaborate -Picture Link
say a delicate serge or woollen cloth
School Street School Street located in East Fordington was previously known as Cuckold's Row' - Follow link for more information
Scrofula See 'kings evil'
searce or (serce) a fine sieve or strainer
seisen or seisin possession of land by freehold - See also 'livery of seisen'
selled sealed
seneschal steward of a medieval great house
sennight derived from 'seven' and 'night' A week, the space of seven days and seven nights
sepultus (-a) erat (abbrev: sept) latin for:-was buried - hence sepultus 'he was buried' and sepulta 'she was buried'
serge (sarge) Serge is a type of twill fabric that has diagonal lines or ridges on both sides. In the early 16th century it went mainly to a Royal monopoly at Calais (then an English Possession) and was woven into cloth in France or the low countries like Holland (now the Netherlands). However with the liberation of Calais by the French on 7th January 1558, England began expanding its own weaving industry. This was generally enhanced by the European Wars of Religion. In 15567 Calvinist refugees from the low countries included many skilled serge weavers while Huguenot refugees in the early 18th century inluded many silk and linen weavers.
Serjeant-at-Mace

Serjeants-at-Mace were officials appointed by the Mayor with the approbation of the Corporation. Their main function seems to have been ceremonial and to keep order at official meetings. See Link to Dorchester's Serjeants at Mace

sethed scythed (if used in the right context)
settell bord or settel A settle was a long wooden bench usually with arms and a high back with a locker or box under the seat Picture Link   Picture Link
Settlement (Source The Dictionary of Genealogy by Terrick VH FitzHugh) A legal right to poor relief arising out of a settled place of abode. By the poor law Act of 1601, a person was recognised as being legally a settled inhabitant of a parish after a month's abode. Parish vestries soon began to use the principle to operate an unofficial system of refusing relief to paupers who had settlement elsewhere. The Settlement Act of 1662 laid the basis of the law of settlement for the next two centuries.

Anyone entering a township and occupying a tenement worth less than "10 per annum might, within the next forty days, be removed by the parochial Overseers of the Poor, acting on an order from two Justices of the Peace who had examined him on oath.He would then be escorted by the constable or by a series of constables along a route back to the place where he was considered to be legally settled unless he could give security for indemnity against becoming chargeable to the parish. However if he managed to stay for forty days he obtained settlement in his new abode.

In a family, a child's place of settlement was the same as his father's until he or she was apprenticed which could happen at the age of seven. Then his place of apprenticeship would become his parish of settlement. Unmarried persons not apprenticed could obtain a new settlement after service in a parish for one year. At marriage a woman took on the same settlement as her husband.

Illegitimate children were granted settlement where they were born. This led Overseers to try to get rid of women pregnant with bastards. If the child was born while the mother was actually under an order of removal it was given the same settlement as hers.

From 1685 the forty days removal period began from the date of delivery in writing to the Overseers of a notice of residence. This led to private compassionate arrangements between paupers and Overseers; so in 1691nthe forty days were made to begin from the publication of the notice in the church . It is from this year that records of removal began.

In 1697 ban Act circumvented paupers who hired themselves to serve a master or mistress for a year but actually quitted their service after a few weeks. It also took the important step of authorising Overseers to issue Settlement Certificates to paupers of their parish but this issue was a grace not a right. The document eased the paupers temporary acceptance into another parish (e.g. for helping with the harvest) since it enabled the parish authorities there to send him back where he had come from if he even looked like becoming chargeable to them. In fact the parish into which he removed was given the right of demanding such a certificate.

In 1795 removal by the Overseers was forbidden unless the pauper became chargeable to the parish which did away with much of the injustice of the law. Though the Settlement Act was repealed in 1834, the principle of settlement remained substantially in force until 1876. The main documents relating to settlement are:
    (1) The Indemnity Certificate of Settlement, given to the pauper by his own churchwardens
    (2) The Examination of the pauper by the churchwardens or a magistrate prior to the issue of a Removal Order. This mentions his family, recent moves, and other valuable information
    (3) The Removal Order, made out in duplicate after application by the Overseers to two Justices of the Peace; one copy to each parish concerned.
    (4) Quarter Sessions records of appeals against removal orders sometimes with councils opinions on the case
    (5) Vestry Minutes and the accounts of overseers and constables.
sexton 'Sexton' is an under officer of the church; usually a person who looks after the church and churchyard, typically acting as a bell ringer and gravedigger. Those so far identified for Dorchester can be found in the Church Officials File
Shaston [Shafton] 'Shaston' is an earlier form of Shaftesbury for confirmation see 'A Topographical Dictionary of England by Samuel Lewis published in London in 1831' The problem is that like Dorchester there are three distinct parishes Shaftesbury Holy Trinity, Shaftesbury St James and Shaftesbury St Peter. The variation 'Shafton' has often been used in Visitation Pedigrees.
Sheep Lane 'Sheep Lane' (See Speeds 1611 Map of Dorchester - page down for index) was a common name in use during the early 1700's for 'Pease Lane' (See the 1771 Map of Dorchester)
shearman a cloth worker or finisher
Shilvinghampton viz - Shilvinghampton is a hamlet in the Parish of Portesham
"Ship Inn" The Ship Inn was better known as 'The Old Ship Inn'situated at 16 and 17 High West Street in Dorchester - follow link for more information and picture

Shroton Iwerne Courtney known locally as Shroton 
(sic) used in brackets after a copied or quoted word that appears odd or erroneous to show that the word is quoted exactly as it stands in the original
sidesman (sidesmen) Sidesman: An assistant to a churchwarden. Sidesmen the Vestry, the paymasters of the parish assembled to assist the parish officers. Definition fron the 'The New and Complete Dictionary of the English Languarge by John Ash published in 1775
sigmun Latin for Signature - used a lot on Wills and Letters of Administration
silts 'silts' in Fordington and Dorchester Inventories is usually among items in the Buttery or kitchen and refers to 'salts' see above for picture link
silu abbreviation for silver (u and v were interchangeable)
simony the buying or selling of ecclesiastical privileges, for example pardons or benefices
sister sister - a term often used in Dorchester Wills to mean a 'sister-in-law' . sometimes a real sister is distinguished by referring to 'my own sister'
sithe Sithe is Old English for Scythe
sizar usually admitted 'Sizar' ie as an undergraduate at university receiving financial help from the college and formally having certain menial duties to carry out
skillet or (skellet, skillett) a small metal pot with a long handle and usually 3 short legs for cooking in the fire - Note Americans use the term for a frying pan but not in Fordington or Dorchester. Picture Link
skimmer (scummer) generally a cooking ladle, lots of different types Picture Link
skyrn (or skrine) screen
Slave Trade [In looking for evidence I searched for a 'negro' a 'blackamore' a 'black man, woman or child' and 'slave']. Given the thousands of documents I have transcribed, unlike Bristol, I have not found any real evidence of Dorchester being involved in or profiting from the slave trade. I am sure there must have been some who owned a slave here at one time or another but documentary evidence showing this is virtually non existent. I have therefore used this file to simply record the very few occasions that I have found any reference to someone who could even possibly have been a slave or involved in the trade:-

--The nephew of the Rev John White (1575-1648), Captain James White of Barbados (1621-1666), left a 'negro boy valued at £25' when he died at Boston in 1667 who was sold to pay off part of his funeral expenses. Capt White was not of course operating at Dorchester but features in John White's biography.

--'John Laurence a blackmoor 16 years old or more' baptised at Holy Trinity on 16th April 1719. There is no other information about him and no 'Laurance' families in Holy Trinity.

--A black woman a prisoner was buried at All Saints Church on 1st Dec 1729.

--'Charles Leek ( a West Indian) aged 21 years of age' was baptised at St Peters Church in Dorchester on 20th June 1746. Charles LEEK/LAKE (1725-1766) seems to have been a freeman at the time he was baptised as he later married at St Peters to a Mary OLIVER on 20th Sep 1747 and successfully raised a family of 8 children in the parish between 1747 and 1760. When he was buried at St Peters in 1766 he was described in the parish burial register as 'a Black' a shortened form of 'Blackamore'.

--Also Dr John Gordon (1728-1774) helped to quell a rebellion of negroes in the parish of St Mary on the Island of Jamaica, on the 8th April 1760, as recorded on his tombstone in St Peter's Church where he was buried on 4th October 1774. Link to Memorial Plaque.

---Municipal Records page 485 ' Nov 3rd 1788 Mr Edward Cozens money by him paid when Mayor for a packet received from the Chairman of the society established in Exeter for the Abolition of the African Slave Trade (this is the only entry in the official records of the town)

--At Melcombe Regis there is an entry in the parish register " A black man belonging to his Majesty's ship the Wasp - found drowned - a pauper 7th Sept 1791.

--An Infant son of a negro name unknown buried at All Saints 2nd July 1810. This individual would have been freed already by the Abolition of Slavery Act passed in 1807.

I do know of a few that emigrated to the West Indies to profit from Sugar Plantations which undoubtedly were run by slave labour but most of these just left never to return to Dorchester. Nathaniel Branker the son of Damaris Strong by her first marriage was a typical example of a son seeking his fortune abroad. He arrived in Barbados circa 1673 and descendants owned the Sunbury plantation in St Philip's Parish in Barbados. Another was Christopher Stoodley (1670-1731) the son of Charles Stoodley the Mayor of Dorchester in 1682. His son did make a fortune on Antigua and eventually returned to London to live bringing two personal slaves with him. When he died in 1731 he left instructions that they were to be freed and he even stated that she could return to antigua and continue to receive a small weekly sum for her support.
slet slate; used in the inventory of John White of Fordington proved 1600 in context of 'slet with a coul' [or trough] Used to hold cold water into which the blacksmith would plunge hot irons
sleas (sles) part of a loom that is pulled by hand among the threads. Seen used as 'sles harnis' (Inventory of Alice Ford of Dorchester 1668) which is a girdle or belt encircling the hips, from which sleas were suspended from hangers, presumably holding sleas with different coloured wool etc. Link to article in Dorset Ancestors about weaving and the Act of 1666 for everyone to be buried in woollen.
smallpox (inoculation, vaccination, variolation)

(Info extracts from "Vaccination Jenner's Legacy" by Derrick Baxby published by the Jenner Educational Trust 1994) Before control measures were developed most people in populous areas contracted smallpox and of those approximately 20% died. The survivors were often terribly scarred, and blindness was a common complication. It is estimated that 200,000 to 600,000 people were killed annually by smallpox in Europe in the 18th Century, and it was a major killer of children. Smallpox caused about 10% of all deaths and 25-35% of deaths in children. With its characteristic appearance it was realised that those who survived smallpox did not get it again, and this led to a greater willingness to employ servants etc with pock marks because of their immunity. Prevention of smallpox by isolation of patients required some idea that the disease was specific and had a specific transmissible cause, and predated proof of the germ theory of disease. It also required specific knowledge of the infectious period which was from about the time the rash appeared until after the scabs dropped off. Such knowledge was acquired gradually and as presented by John Haygarth in his 'Rules for the prevention of Smallpox (published 1785)' meant that by this date many villages had an old cottage or similar on the outskirts of town that was used to immediately isolate individuals suspected of having the disease. Dorset was at the forefront of many of these developments.

Deliberate infection as a preventative measure was practiced in India and China centuries before it was introduced to Britain by Lady Mary, wife of the British Ambassador to Turkey. The process involved deliberate inoculation of smallpox material into the arm in the hope that mild smallpox would develop. The practice was called inoculation later called variolation. Lady Mary had her son variolated in Constantinople in 1717 and on her return to England she had her daughter variolated in 1721 and so introduced the practice to London Society. A successful trial on six prisoners soon followed and in 1723 two children of Caroline of Ansbach, Princess of Wales were variolated. Initially Variolation was used mainly only in populous areas and when epidemics threatened but became increasingly common in the 1760's. Dorchester and Fordington of course sat at the crossroads of major trade routes not just throughout Dorset to places like London, Oxford and Exeter but also with the continent through the nearby coastal ports as many of the merchants in Dorchester imported wine, textiles and other produce from the continent. Protection was therefore a major concern and not just for the rich.

There is no doubt that inoculated smallpox produced a less severe effect reducing mortality significantly, but there were occasional disasters such as at Blandford in 1766 when many were very ill and 13 out of 384 died. There was particular concern about the fact that those in contact with variolated individuals caught smallpox which was fully virulent and fatal and this was a major barrier to its widespread use. Individuals could be isolated but few could afford it so the practice arose for a whole village to be inoculated so that everyone was infectious at the same time.

Although Edward Jenner (1749-1823 ) is credited with the widespread introduction of vaccination using cowpox he did not carry out his first vaccination until May 1796. The use of cowpox was in use in Dorset well before that date mainly because of the work of Benjamin Jesty (1736-1816) (picture) who was using the practice some 22 years earlier. Jesty and two of his female servants, Ann NOTLEY and Mary READE, had been infected with cowpox. When an epidemic of smallpox came to Yetminster in 1774, Jesty decided to try to give his wife Elizabeth and two eldest sons immunity by infecting them with cowpox. He took his family to a cow at a farm in nearby Chetnole that had the disease, and using a darning needle, transferred pustular material from the cow by scratching their arms. The boys had mild local reactions and quickly recovered but his wife's arm became very inflamed and for a time her condition gave cause for concern, although she too recovered fully in time. There is a blue plaque commemorating Jesty's pioneering work at Upbury Farm at Yetminster. Jesty's experiment was met with hostility by his neighbours. He was labeled inhuman, and was "hooted at, reviled and pelted whenever he attended markets in the neighbourhood’". The introduction of an animal disease into a human body was thought disgusting and some even "feared their metamorphosis into horned beasts". But the treatment's efficacy was several times demonstrated in the years which followed, when Jesty's two elder sons, exposed to smallpox, failed to catch the disease.

Vestry minutes in Dorchester & Fordington record:-
Holy Trinity Paris, Dorchester: 15th Dec 1763 "At a Vestry held this day according to public notice given on Sunday last it is agreed :- Such Poor as will be inoculated at the expense of the Parish are to make their application so the officers who are to apply to Mr William DAVIS Apothecary and are to be inoculated at ten shillings and six pence per head

Holy Trinity Parish, Dorchester: 25 Mar 1770 "At a Vestry then held by public notice this day after divine service:- Ordered that a List of the Poor unable to be at the expense [i.e. unable to afford the expense] of the Smallpox of themselves be taken, and when the number appears, to employ some person at the lowest expense that can be to inoculate such as are willing to undergo the operation

Holy Trinity Parish, Dorchester: 12th Dec 1779 that James KEATS & five of his children be inoculated at this parishes expense & that Mr James BUCKLAND be employed to inoculate them

Holy Trinity Parish, Dorchester: 3rd June 1781 "At a vestry held this day pursuant to notice given it was agreed that Dr BUCKLAND do inoculate the poor of this parish at 5/3 each - that the Officers are requested to ascertain in the mean time the number of proper objects that the expense of the undertaking may be known"

St Georges Parish, Fordington "For the month of May 1789 Minutes show that the poor of the parish had all been inoculated at the cost of the ratepayers.

Holy Trinity Parish, Dorchester 28th April 1789. "At a Vestry held this day pursuant to notice given it is agreed that Mr Christopher ARDEN do inoculate the poor of this parish at 5shillings each agreeable to the list now ascertained, and again on 12th Feb 1792, 10th April 1796 and 9th Oct 1798.

KNOWN DEATHS BY SMALLPOX:

Most burial records do not record the cause of death at all which belies how prevelent it actually was, but a few records are known and these include:-

(1) Quarter Session Records held at Shaston Dorset 13 Aug 1724 This Court etc pay unto Edward CHAFEY the sum of fifteen pounds and eight shillings the same being ye contents of his bill for attendance on several prisoners in the small pox and for what paid the Apothecary during their illness and other particulars mentioned in the said bill and the same etc. [Source: Quarter Sessions held at Bridport on 16th Oct 1724 Ancestry. com image 199 of 240 ]

(1) The Rev Baruch NOWELL dissenting Minister in Dorchester for 50 years from 1689 to 1739 buried at St Peters on 10th Sep 1739 known to have died from Smallpox see account of the Old Dissenters Meeting House.

(2) St Peters burial register: 16 Dec 1739 Mary HUGHES buried. See' A Popular and Illustrated guide to St Peters Church Dorchester published 1907' page 39 where it states " The following is a translation of the inscription on the defaced tablet outside the porch given me by Mr H.D.SIME -- Underneath lies buried, prematurely snatched away by smallpox MARIA the thrice best beloved daughter of John & Alisa HUGHES. She died December 13th AD 1739 in the eighth year of her age.

(3) Quarter Session Records held at Bridport 3rd Oct 1775 - This Court etc To Pay James CHAFFEY Gentleman Mayor and Coroner for the Town and Borough of Dorchester for the said County the sum of Four Pounds being the contents of his Bill now delivered into this Court for taking Four Inquisitions in the Gaol of the said County on view of the several and expostive Bodies of Joseph BARTLETT A poor Prisoner confined in the said Goal for Debt, William MITCHELL charged with Murder, Robert SNOOK and Philip SNOOK under sentance of Transportation who all respectively died of the Small Pox as appears by the several Inquisitions

Quarter Session Records held at Bridport 8th Oct 1776 - [Ancestry.com imager 184 of 476] This COURT doth order the Western Treasurer of the county Stock of this County to pay unto James CHAFFEY Gentleman Keeper of His Magesty's Goal at Dorchester the sum of Thirty Two Pounds Sixteen Shillings anbd two pence being the contents of his Bill now delivered into this Court for his great care and humanity in providing necessaries for the poor Prisoners under the distemper of the Small Pox and other disorders [NAMELY] John HOBBY; Joseph BARTLETT (who died); Elizabeth GOFFE; Sarah PRIDDY; (Debters); William MITCHELL, Robert SNOOK and Philip SNOOK (who also died) Richard GARRETT; Melchezedec BURT; William HUSAR and Elizabeth SEBLEY (Criminals) commencing from the tenth day of December 1775 and continued until the 25th day of March 1776 as appears by Bill of Particulars delivered, etc.

(3) William Trask CHRISTOPHER (1741-1785) died of smallpox being buried in St Mary's churchyard in Morden on 9th August 1785

(4) Holy Trinity burial register: John WHITE died of the smallpox of South Back Street in this parish; buried 23 Jan 1821; age 73 years;

(5) A case of Smallpox occuring at Fordington was reporteed in the Bridport News on Friday 23rd June 1871 for a young man named Isaac LESTER - Link to article

smock (smoc; smocke) The basic item of underclothing worn by women - an old saxon word later became a shift or chemise
smockfrock A loose outter garment work to protect one's clothes
sojourner often used in parish registers to mean someone of temporary residence. i.e. his/her place of settlement would be elsewhere, often they had work locally and lived in rented accommodation.
solis Latin meaning 'sun' -- note most often in Dorchester registers as 'die solis' for Sunday
sonne son
South Back Street (Back South St) 'South Back Street' is in Holy Trinity Parish in Dorchester. It was renamed as 'Trinty Street' (See 1771 and 1886 Maps of Dorchester. Runs almost parrallel to 'South Street' connecting 'High West Street' heading due south to meet what used to be the 'South Gate' in the old Roman Wall.
s.p. means died without children. Usually used in a visitation pedigree and shown as (ob. s.p.) i.e died without children
St Martin's Road Is situated in West Fordington and was previously part of the 'Bridport Road' into Dorchester. It runs from the Dorchester Steam Laundry past what was sydney terrace, the railway bridge and the Infantry Barracks to the cross roads at the West Gate - See the 1901 Map of West Dorchester
St George's Road Source:- St Georges Baptism Register - Entry 946 Baptsim 2nd June 1895 of Wilfred Charles son of Charles Birt & Bessie Eliza HURST - Their abode is given as 19 St Georges Road* Fordington [ * Entry at the bottom of the page states "Lowdes or Loud's Road is now named St Georges Road by order of the Town Council"]
St Helen's Road St Helen's Road is situated in West Fordington south of the Infantry Barracks and is a close joining Albert Road next to the G.W.Railway line See Map of West Dorchester 1901. The houses were built on land shown as "Westfield" in the 1886 Map
Stamp Duties (tax on baptisms, marriages, & burials) The Stamp Duties Act of 1783 (23 Geo.III c.67) was passed by the House of Commons of Great Britain in order to raise money to pay for the American War of Independence. Under the provisions of this act, all baptism, marriage and burial entries in each parish register were subject to a tax of 3d (old pence). Church ministers were empowered to collect the duty, and were allowed to keep 10% of this fee as compensation for their trouble. Refusal to pay carried a fine of five pounds]. This was a deeply unpopular tax, and many clergymen were sympathetic to the plight of their parishioners, and as paupers were exempt from this tax, it is not uncommon for family history researchers and genealogists to find that the number of supposed poor people within a parish has increased many times above normal during these years until the act was finally repealed in 1794. Such entries in a parish register are annotated with either the letter "P." or "Pauper". If a family could not claim exemption then it was not unusual for them simply not to bother, and this would result in a number of adult "late" baptisms during the following decades. The Act was repealed by section 1 of the Act 34 Geo.3 c.11.
standing bed bed, actually the bed frame. It had a board or rope mesh foundation on which was placed a mattress. If the bedstead was 'furnished' it was appraised together with its hangings which would be worth more than the bedstead. (e.g. see 'tester' below) It would usually be the most impotrtant piece of furniture in the house and a prized status symbol. A 'standing bedstead' would be high enough to have a 'truckle bed' sliding beneath it on which generally a maid would sleep. Picture Link
Stantons Factory (Stantons Mill) See Louds Mill

"Star Inn"

[may previously have been the Bell Inn]

The Star Inn was situated in All Saints Parish in 'Bell Street' Dorchester (later renamed as No.6 'Icen Way' ) It appears to be at the same site as the original 'Bell Inn' so named sometime prior to 1717 and when Bell Street was actually called 'Jail Street'. At the back of the Bell was the Malthouse and those buildings were still there in 1771 through to 1901 at least. We need to locate more information about it's existence during these early years. In later years it is listed as one of the pubs owned by Eldridge Pope Brewery. The Inn closed in 1973.

1841 Census All Saints Parish, Bell Street, Dorchester - John Joiner, Brewer aged 33 with wife 4 children jouneyman, 2 servants & possibly 2 lodgers

1851 Census All Saints Parish, Bell Street, Dorchester - John Woodward; Head; M; 67; Beershop Keeper-Formerly Dairyman; born Winterborne Steepleton; with his wife

1852 Slaters Directory - John Woodward - Bell Street, Retailer of Beer

1861 Census living in Bell Street 'Star Inn' - William Woodward Head Married aged 39 Victualler born Winterborne Abbas with wife 4 children his father his mother-in-law

1865 Harrods Directory - Mrs. Mary Woodward - 'Star Inn', Bell Street

1867 Bridport New Sat 12 Jan 1867 - Deaths - Jan 4th at the Star Inn Dorchester - Jane widow of the late Mr Henry Hardy of middlemarsh Dorset Cooper aged 78 years

1871 Census living in Bell Street - John Rogers Head Married aged 25 Licensed Victualler born Dorchester, with wife, daughter, visitor, Lodger and Boarder

1875 Post Office Directory - John Brushett, 'The Star', Bell Street [Note:- John Brushett in 1851 was working as a brewers labourer and living a few houses away from the Bull's Head on Fordington Hill. By 1861 he had moved with his wife and family to live at the Charminster Tavern in Charminster where he was a beer retailer. By 1865 however he had returned to live in Dorchester and now well versed in the trade was the Innkeeper of the 'Three Mariners' in High East street. His daughter Elizabeth Brushett (1850-1891) married George Pitfield (1844-1917) a tailor on 24th Feb 1870 at All Saints Church in Dorchester. By 1871 George Pitfield had become the Innkeeper of 'The Old House and Home'. By 1875 John Brushett and his wife Elizabeth were running 'The Star Inn' in Bell Street]

1881 Census All Saints Parish, Bell Street, - John Brushett Head married aged 64 Licensed Victualler born Dorchester, with his wife Elizabeth and grandson George John Pitfield

1886 Map of Dorchester shows a Public House [P.H] in Bell Street on the north east side of the junction with Durngate Street

1889 Kellys Directory, William Roper Bell Street 'Star Inn Public House', Commercial

1891 Census living at Bell Street 'Star Inn' - William Roper, Head married aged 51 Innkeeper, born Dorchester, with wife Eliza born Piddlehinton and son Wm Clerk born Dorchester

1894 - All Saints Marriages

1895 Kellys Directory, William Roper , Star Inn, 8 Bell Street

1901 Map of Dorchester shows an 'Inn' in Bell Street on the north east side of the junction with Durngate Street

1901 Census living in Icen Way - [can only locate Icen Way & no publican etc?]

1911 Census - at 'Star Inn' Icen Way Dorchester - Alfred Dunesby Head aged 47 married 19 years Publican born Fordington wife Jessie aged 40 born Portland and daughter Daisy aged 12 born Weymouth

1915 Kellys Directory, Alfred Dunesby 'Star Inn' 6 Icen Way

1973 - Closed

steane (steen, steene, steine) Steane = steene - steine - a glazed earthenware vessel with two handles, for storing food and liquids
stockes (or stokes) Colonies of bees
Stocking Bridge Stocking Bridge was repaired in 1689 (See John Speeds Map of 1611) and was situated near Foridngton Mill and is now called Swan Bridge
stoles See also 'joyne' above. Usually referred to as 'joyne stoles' meaning a stool(s) made by a carpenter usually with four turned legs and of a joined construction - fixed with wooden pegs Picture Link
stonehorse [stone-horse] A stone horse is a stallion or an uncastrated male horse. In common use in the Dorchester & Fordington area in 16th Century. Example Will of Maryan BASCOMBE Dated 26 Jan 1591/2. Source Collins English Dictionary
strumpet The 1775 Dictionary still gives more or less the definition we use today of "A woman of ill fame, a prostitute". The only person that I have seen use the expression extensively is the Rev George WOOD [1773-1847] the Rector of Holy Trinity church in Dorchester from 1825 to 1847. Most Rectors simply left the column for 'occupation' blank for illegitimate births but he religiously used 'strumpet' and some of the women involved were certainly not common protitutes.
stuffe woollen fabric. Also used to mean goods as in Household stuff as a title on inventories.
sum or sume; summe; svmme did not seem to differentiate between sum and some except by the context of the sentence
"Sun Tavern" & "Sun Inn" The Sun Inn is at 'Lower Burton', a small hamlet situated under 1 mile north of Dorchester High Street adjacent to the hamlet of Froome Whitchurch. It has it's own website at The Sun Inn

1830 Pigots Directory, 'Sun', Publican Elizabeth Galpin , at Burton,

1839 Roberts Directory, 'Sun', Publican Thomas Durden, at Burton,

1841 Census for Burton in the parish of Charminster - Thomas Durden aged 40 to 44 Innkeeper with wife Susan aged 35 to 39 & 3 children

1842 Pigots Directory, Dorchester Dorset, Page 121 under Taverns and Public Houses - 'Sun' Thomas Durden,Burton

1844 Pigots Directory - 'Sun', Thomas Durden, Burton [Note:- In 1851 Census he is a Victualler in charge of the George Inn in Dorchester]

1852 Slaters Directory - 'Sun', John Mayo, Burton

------------------------------------------------------------------------

1871 Census living at Friary Buildings at 'Swan Inn' St Peters Parish - David Roberts Head Widower aged 54 Publican & Groom born Durweston, with Son-in-law 3 children a boarder 4 lodgers,

1881 Census living at 'Sun Inn' Friary Lane St Peters Parish - Edward Elliott Head Married aged 55, Publican, born Fordington, with wife Sarah and daughter Mary Ann aged 16 'Inn Servant assists in the business'
suprascripto Latin - in the above written
sup'stes sup'stes is a well known abbreviation for the Latin word superstes or superstitis meaning 'surviving'. Often used in the Visitations: example:- Visitation of Dorset 1623 page 47 GOULD Family: where there is an entry for "John GOULD of Dorchester gent aetat. 65 sup'stes 1623" meaning 'age 65 suriving in 1623'
surmaster deputy to the head master of the school
"Swan Inn"

Situated at the end of Mill street opposite Fordington Corn Mill - see FStG Burials No.1356 29 Jan 1889 & No.137. Marian Rose Player 24 Mar 1889

Swan Inn Mill Street 1788 Will of Isaac SPARKS (1727-1788) - And whereas I am seized or possessed of certain copyhold messuage tenements following (to wit) the 'Swan Inn' in Forthington (Fordington) aforesaid" ---etc - on his death in 1788 passes to his widow Miriam SPARKS nee MANUEL (d.1811) for her widowhood and then to his daughter Sarah SPARKS (bap1758) and after her death to William SPARKS his son (b.1759) .

1851 Census Fordington Mill Street 'Swan Inn' - Richard Davis Head Mar aged 36 Victualler & Bricklayer born Fordington with wife, 5 children, mothera servant +5 lodgers

1861 Census Fordington Mill Street 'Swan Inn' - Richard Davis Head Married aged 46 Builder & Victualler born Fordington with wife 3 children 1 servant 1 relative 4 lodgers

1870 Long article in Southern Times & Dorset County Chronicle Sat 10 Dec 1870 concerning the inquest into the death of Alfred Meecham who lived at the 'Swan Inn'

1865 Harrods Directory - John Davis 'Swan Inn', builder and shop keeper, East Fordington

1871 Census living at Mill Street 'Swan Inn' Fordington - Isaac Pitfield Head married aged 28, Inn Keeper, born Fordington, with wife & 7 lodgers

1881 Census living at 'Swan Inn' Mill Street East Fordington - Sarah Franklin Head, Widow aged 77 Inn Keeper born Compton with son, daughter-in-law & 2 garndchildren. Also 11 Dec 1881; Jane Andrews daughter of Thomas & Temperance FRANKLIN abode "Swan Inn" Mill street; a Carpenter, baptised.

1889 Kellys Directory Arthur Player Mill Street Fordington 'Swan Inn Public House' Commercial. [Note:- 1st of Arthur William Player's children - Irene Maud Player baptised Fordington St George Church 12 Jan 1886 abode shown as Swann Inn]

1891 Census Living in Mill Street Fordington Arthur W Player Head Married aged 28 Licensed Victualler born Dorchester, with wife 2 daughters and 2 Boarders.

1895 09 Aug :- Entry in Burial Register for St Georges Church Fordington " William Player resident at Swan Inn Fordington buried aged 78"

1895 22 Dec :- Entry in Baptism Reg for St Georges Church " Kenneth son of William John & Rose EMERTON abode "The Swan" Mill Streeyt Fordington occupation Licensed Victualler

sweyne or swine sweyne/swain are female pigs used to breed piglets
swingletree a bar that swings at the heels of a horse when drawing a harrow, plough etc
S.W.R. Abbreviation for South Western Railway - usually shown as (L.S.W.R) ie London and South Western Railway
Sydney Terrace Sydney Terrace is situated in West Fordington and fronts onto the north side of Bridport Road just before the railway bridge and the Infantry Barracks - See the 1886 Map of West Fordington
't' (or) 'ti' as in 100ti often seen in 17th century wills as superscript as in t or ti and after a sum of money such as 100ti: It's meant to be a capital L with a cross bar and stands for the latin word 'libra' or the english 'pound'. Today we simply prefix the amount with £ as in £100
table board (or 'tablebord' or 'tableborde' or 'tabell board') tableboard - The flat top of a table, often appraised separately from the frame (or tressylle or tressle ) on which it stood, being fixed with removable wooden pegs Picture Link and a long seat without a back clalled a form {fourme(s) or forme(s) or fforme or furme(s)}
tampons Long Pellets used to kill game
tankards Tankards - see 'drinking vessels 17th century' explanation above"
terrier A written description of a landed property by acreages and boundaries. Manorial estate records usually include a terrier of the estate. Glebe Terriers are thos dealing with the land belonging to a parish incumbent's benefice. The bondaries are described by reference to the holders of adjacent lands.
Testa de Nevill The Book of fees compiled by the Kings Remembrancer commonly called the Testa de Nevill (1198-1242).
testamento Latin - Testament
tester (or testerne) [Note: A linen tester cloth or canopy was the covering for the upper rectangular part of a four poster bed. Usually, the function of the tester was to hold bed curtains that could surround the bed to keep out draughts.]
testtum (latin abbreviation for testamentum) Latin often used in probate statements for 'by testament or bequest' i.e. will
tex toris weaver i.e. by trade
theifelord Lord of the Manor
thong-cutter harness maker
"The Three Compasses Inn" 1882 - 8th Dec- James FORSE Landlord of the Three Compasses in Dorchester in a long article as a witness in a case of Robbery of game at Moreton - Source Bridport Beaminster and Lyme Regis Telgram Friday 8th Dec 1882

1886 - 10th Dec - A Publican and his Lodger - Newberry v Forse. This was an action in which plaintiff, a laburing man, sued for the recovery of certain goods which he alleged defendant had detained illegally. Mr Coombs, who appeared for defendant, said the goods were in his client's possession, and were detained until plaintiff had paid what he owed. James FORSE, said he was landlord of the Three Compasses Inn Dorchester. Plaintiff was a lodger in his house for three weeks and three days. He came on the 29th April. Ultimately he turned him out because he brought a woman to the house. He advanced 5s to him on a pair of boots. Plaintiff denied his liability, and putin a letter from an officialk of the Beaminster Union stateinghe left the house there on the 5th April. This he brought to show he could not have been at the Three Compasses at the time stated, but the Judge said it did not affect the defendants statement. The palintiff could nothave his goods until he paid the defendants counter claim of 12 shillings for board. Verdict for the defendant. Plaintiff said he would not pay at all. The Judge : You will find the law much stronger than you are. It is for you to consider if you prefer to get within the four walls. Source Bridport News Friday 10th Dec 1886. 1891 - James C Forse Licensed Victualler with his wife and 3 children + 2 lodgers [Note:- during at least 1875-1889, James Forse was a beer retailer and greengrocer living in West Fordington - Source Post Office Directory 1875 and Kellys 1889]
"The Three Crowns" 1737 Burgage Rate for the Parish of St Peters in Dorchester (MRD Page 693) shows that Robert Hawes was charged 9 pence for his house (The Three Crowns)

"Three Mariners Tavern" The Three Mariners is situated in All Saints Parish, 41 High East Street

1793 - June 15. Leave given to John Hackley to erect a bow window to his house in High East Street in the Parish of All Saints, called the 'Three Mariners' on payment of a yearly sum of one shilling for the encroachment, such bow window not to be erected within one foot of the pavement.

1830 Pigots Directory, 'Three Mariners', Publican John Standish, High East Street [Note:- John STANDISH of All Saints Parish married Elizabeth GRAY of Fordington at All Saints 9th Aug 1827]

1830 Roberts Directory, 'Three Mariners', Publican John Standish, High East Street

1841 Census High East Street All Saints Parish Dorchester , John Standish age 40-44 Publican

1842 Pigots Directory, Dorchester Dorset, Page 121 under Taverns and Public Houses - 'Three Mariners' John Standish, High East Street

1844 Pigots Directory -'Three Mariners', John Standish, High East Street Dorchester

1851 Census Living at High East Street - John Standish Head Married aged 53 Victualler & Brewer born Dorchester with his wife & 3 Inn Servants

1852 Slaters Directory - 'Three Mariners', John Standish, High East Street Dorchester

1861 Census living at No. 41 High East St 'Three Mariners' - Robert Smith Head Married aged 48 Victualler born Wareham with wife 3 daughters & a Servant

1865 Harrods Directory - J Brushett,' Three Mariners' High East street.
[Note:- John Brushett in 1851 was working as a brewers labourer and living a few houses away from the Bull's Head on Fordington Hill. By 1861 he had moved with his wife and family to live at the Charminster Tavern in Charminster where he was a beer retailer. By 1865 however he had returned to live in Dorchester and now well versed in the trade was the Innkeeper of the 'Three Mariners' in High East street. His daughter Elizabeth Brushett (1850-1891) married George Pitfield (1844-1917) a tailor on 24th Feb 1870 at All Saints Church in Dorchester. By 1871 George Pitfield had become the Innkeeper of 'The Old House and Home'. By 1875 John Brushett and his wife Elizabeth were running 'The Star Inn' in Bell Street]

1871 Census - 41 High East Street is unoccupied.

1881 Census Living at 41 High East street John Butt head married aged 62 Manager of Public House born Poole, with wife 1 servant and 1 lodger.

1889 Post Office Directory, Joseph Stephens, High East Street, 'Three Mariners Public House', Commercial

1891 Census Living at 41 High East Street 'Three Mariners' All Saints Parish - Joseph Stevens Head married aged 37 Licensed Victualler born Bristol, with wife, 6 children, and a servant

ti (in superscript) 't' (or) 'ti' as in 100ti [often seen in 17th century wills as superscript as in t or ti and after a sum of money such as 100ti: It's meant to be a capital L with a cross bar and stands for the latin word 'libra' or the english 'pound'. Today we simply prefix the amount with £ as in £100]
Tilley's Buildings situated in Mill Street Fordington.
tinman or tinnman [tynman or tynnman] a person who makes or trades in tin which was often mined in Devon and particularly in Cornwall. It was often used in making Pewter which has a 85% to 99% tin content.
tinning or tinnen [tynning or tynnen] 17th century used to mean tin
tippler, tippling house, tippler supprest a retailer of ale or the place where ale was sold. excessive drinking is not necessarily implied by either term as everybody including children drank ale as water carried infection. The strongest ale from the first mash was generally reserved for men, the second mash for women and the weakest third mash for children. A tippler supprest was one whose licence was revoked
tithingman [tythingman, tithing] Tithingman: The elected representative of the manor court responsible for presenting to the Court the tithing list at each View of Frankpledge. This was reviewed to ensure that all men and boys of the age of 12 or over were enrolled in a tithing. Tithing: originally this referred to a group of ten men and boys who were held responsible to the manor court (by giving a frankpledge) for its member’s good conduct. If one member offended then the other nine were responsible. The Tithingman would therefore report to court all misdemeanours committed by members of the families within the tithing.

Another function sometimes carried out by the Tythingman was to draw up the Militia Listing for the parish as was the case in 1796 in Cheselbourne and 1798 and 1799 for Lytchett Minster so the ability to write was often paramount in selection. In reality particularly in small parishes there was a duplication of role with that of churchwarden, parish clerk etc. Other parishes used the constable as was the case in Fordington. Tithingmen and constables were, among other things, expected to carry out Bastardy Orders issued by JP's.
title in capite by the laws of England, one who holds immediately of the king. According to the feudal system, all lands in England are considered as held immediately or mediately of the king, who is styled lord paramount. Such tenants, however, are considered as having the fee of the lands and permanent possession
tonges (or tongues) Although often part of inventories of kitchen items 'tonges' usually meant iron tonges for placing coal on the fire, hence they also appear in inventories in the 'Hall' (or main room of the house)
to or too two
toft A plot of land on which a building stood, or, as the word is more often used, had formerly stood. In a manor, it had manorial rights of common attached to it. Not to be confused with 'croft'.
toubs tubs
trammel an iron hook in a fireplace for a kettle. The ones that I have seen have a hook at one end ( like one end of a pot hook) to go on the iron bar which stretches cross the inside of the top of the fireplace. The other end of the hook goes through one end of a flat iron strip of metal about a foot long by an inch wide which is bent into an "S" shape. This then provides a secure resting place for the handle of a kettle to hang over the fire from which it can easily be removed. Also see below
trammel net sometimes just referred to as a 'trammel' as well - a net for fishing - a modern description from the oxford english dictionary is "a three layed dragnet designed that a fish entering through one of the large meshed outer sections will push part of the finer meshed central section through the large meshes on the further side, forming a pocket in which the fish is trapped".
tramper a person who travels from place to place on foot in search of work or as a vagrant or begger. not to be confused with a tranter see below
tranter a person who carries fish from the sea coasts to sell them inland (From Dictionary dated 1775). The husband of Elizabeth Martha BROWN (executed at Dorchester gaol in 1856 for his murder) was described as 'a tranter or waggoner possessing a horse and waggon'. I have a feeling that it was a phrase used in Dorset more to describe anybody who owned their own cart or waggon and traded goods from the larger towns into the countryside villages. John Anthony Brown (1830-1856), Elizabeth's husband was described as a tranter. He bought goods in Beaminster and they owned a small chandlers shop in Broadwinsor where presumably they sold much of the merchandise. A number of people in the Christopher Family were also described a 'tranters' but again this seems to refer to carters moving almost any goods as they are also referred to as hauliers and even in one case moving coal.
travayle travail - ie a painful or laborious effort or labour pains as in 'a woman's in travail'
treager Treager was another linen fabric which got its name from Treguier in Brittany and was imported into Dorset in the 17th century via the port of Weymouth by Dorchester Merchants
Source: Page 38 Studies in Dorset History by Maureen Weinstock M.A.,F.R.Hist.S published by Longmans (Dorchester) 1953
trencher a trencher was a plate or platter usually of wood, but occasionally of pewter . It could be square or circular, flat (the most useful shape for carving meat) or turned up to provide a rim. Some were even shaped like a plate. The trencher constituted the cheapest, and commonest form of utensil from which to eat solid food. Trenchers were usually made of a hardwood that was non-porous, did not transmit its taste or odour to the food and turned well, such as beech or sycamore. There is also reference to trencher boxes in which typically a dozen or more trenchers where kept and in one will a 'trencher cage' which I assume is more like a rack into which trenchers could be stored when not in use. Picture Link
trendelles or (tredle, trendle, trendol, trondell, trondele) 'trondell' appears to refer to Trendle or Trendell a round or oval tub - also described as a dough trough.
Trinity Street

'Trinity Steet' is in Holy Trinity Parish in Dorchester. It runs almost parrallel to 'South Street' connecting 'High West Street' heading due south to meet what used to be the 'South Gate' in the old Roman Wall and is now a main cross roads. (See 1901 and 1886 Maps of Dorchester.

In 1771 however 'Trinity Street' was called 'South Back Street'. See 1771 Map of Dorchester

tresses (trayses, treases, traces) pair of ropes, chains, or leather straps, by which the collar of a draught animal was connected to the swingletree (a bar that swings at the heels of a horse when drawing a harrow, plough etc
trew (trowe) A trew is a trough as in The great stone trew
trilbed, trenbed, probably refers to a trindlebed see trucklebed
truckle bed [trunole, trockle, troockle, trunle, trundle, trundel, truggle] A Truckle Bed is a low bed running on truckles or small wheels which could be pushed under a high or standing bed when not in use. Picture Link      Definition from Dictionary of Traded Goods and Commodities, 1550-1820 (2007). URL: http://www.british-history.ac.uk/report.aspx?compid=58901.Trundle bed An alternative and common name for a TRUCKLE BED, designed to slide under a high bed or STANDING BED during the day; hence 'one standinge bed and a trundle bed' [Inventories (1596)]. Trundle beds were by their nature smaller and so needed their own-sized furnishings, hence 'Trundle ffeather Bed & Bedstid' [Inventories (1694)].
[Common variations :- tundle bedstead; trunle bed; trundlested; trundlebedstead; trundlebedd; trundle-bed; trundle bedstid; trundle bedsteed; trundle bedstedle; trundle bede; trundle bedd; trundle bed sted; trundle bed stead; trundell steed; trundell bedsteede; trundell bedsted; trundell bedstead; trundell bedd; trundele bedsted; trundelbed; trunale bed; trondle bedde; trendle] Also truggle bedstead see Will Henry Cardroe Dorchester 1592.
trunke a trunk used as now for travel but also for storage within the house Picture Link
Tubb's Corner [Tub's Corner] Situated in East Fordington on Tubb's Road which connects the London Road (or old Roman Road) to Standfast.[See 1886 or 1901 Ornance Survey Maps of Fordington ] close to Prince's Bridge and Fordington (Corn) Mill
turnkey a prison warder or jailer. Most worked at the County Gaol in Dorchester in North Square and some are known from records at Holy Trinity Church in Dorchester (unless otherwise stated) such as:-

Thomas BUNN described as a late turnkey on the baptism record of his son William Thomas Bunn on 1st Jan 1826.

1841 Cenus : Turnkeys working at Dorset County Gaol & House of Correction -
    Henry Hellier aged 55-59
    William Lovering aged 35-39
    George BOWRING (1810-1890) who married Mary WARREN at Holy Trinity Church on 19 Feb 1844 and who worked as a warder from before 1841 until he retired about 1876.
    Samuel Kendall aged 40-44
    Henry Kellaway aged 30-34
    James Dawe aged 60-64
    James Fudge aged 45-49
    James Lester aged 30-34
    William Cutis Reynold aged 40-44
William MONKTON whose dau Elizabeth bap HT 7 Feb 1842 & lived in Pease Lane
Henry HELLIER married Mary HILL on 29 Apr 1844; or
Jesse PHELPS who married Margaret BAKER on 12th Oct 1847 and later Sarah WELLSPRING at West F 9th Mar 1854
Jerimiah JOINER who married Frances Matilda SAMWAYS on 03 May 1848;
Robert SEAL who married Elizabeth GREGORY 15th Dec 1857.
Robert MORGAN described as a turnkey from St Peters at baptism of his son Edmond at All Saints church 21 Sep 1864
Henry PITFIELD (1837-1889) described as a prison warden in 1871 census lived in Fordington
Edward CONWAY described as a warden in a prison on the baptism of his son Edward at All Saints church on 16th May 1880
William WILSON described as a warden in a prison on the baptism of his daughter Florence Beatrice at Christchurch West Fordington on 5th Aug 1888
tynne tin see also tinning and tinman
"Union Arms" Link to an Account of the Union Arms 1839-1931 in Cuckold's Row (later known as) Holloway Road. Fordington (with picture)
usher under master at a Dorchester Free school
uxor [also seen oxor] (abbrev: ux. uxr or vx. vxr) Latin for:-wife of. uxor ejus =' wife his' = 'his wife'
valens valens is an abbreviation in common use in the 17th century for Valence and refers to the fringe or drapery hanging about the tester and head of the bed
vassal a holder of land by feudal tenure on condition of homage and allegiance. see also 'feudalism'.
vathorse Vatehorse (see fatehorse) is a stand on which a vat is place usually used in making beer
vailes I have not located an official definition but the context within which it is used was where an under master at Dorchester Free school appears to have had a right to voluntary contributions made towards the running of the school
velmonger See fellmonger
vertue virtue (Used a lot in Letters of Administration as in "abide in full force & vertue")
The Vestry The Vestry was the governing body of the parish, its name being derived from the room within the church in which it held meetings. It was made up of respected householdrs of the parish and elected the churchwardens and overseers of the poor as well as constables and waywardens subject to the approval of the justices of the peace. Minutes were kept of their meeings and many of those relating to Fordington have survived from 1731.
vetch (fech, fech, fetch, ffeches) Vetch is a well known legume also known as common vetch or tares. It scrambling, smothering growth habit and frost tolerance make it a very useful winter cover crop or green manure. Used as an over-winter green cover and soil improver, it can also be grazed by livestock. In the 16th Century in Fordington it was referred to as Fech and gathered as a natural food for livestock and kept along with hay in the barn. When Maryan Bascombe widow of Fordington died on 21st day of January 1591/2 an Inventory of her goods included an item for "For fech and haye" in her barn which was appraised at £2. A lot of money when £2 higher in the inventory was the value of a cart, a plough and tackle combined.
Victoria Road - Fordington/Dorchester 'Victoria Road' runs between 'Cornwall Road' and the 'Great Western Railway line'. As such it is outside Holy Trinity Parish and falls within the Parish of Fordington which surrounds Dorchester on 3 sides. This side of Dorcester is referred to as 'West Fordington'. It was originally called the 'Great Western Road' (see Kelly's Directory 1889) and the 'Great Western Terraces' (1891 Census - District 10 - Fordington) . The Ordnance Survey Map of Dorchester dated 1886 however already lists it as Victoria Road. 1886 was the year that the Ornance Survey was actually carried out, but on consulting the original map I notice at the bottom (off the image) it states "Published at the Ordnance Survey Office , Southampton 1889. It seems likely therefore that the name of the road was changed to celebrate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee (20th and 21st June 1887) and therefore changed prior to publication but implementation was sometime later. Certainly by the 1901 Census it was formly being referred to as Victoria Road but I have not so far located any official announcement in newspapers etc of when it took place. If anyone has any additional information please let me know. [Note:- A Mrs Susan DAVIS (1829-1908) the widow of Henry DAVIS and a straw bonnet maker lived at No. 14 in this road from before 1889 until her death in 1908. In 1889 she appears in Kelly's Street Directory living at 'Great Western Road'; In Apr 1891 the Fordington Dist 10 Census gives her address as '14 Great Western Terrace'; Kelly's Street Directory for the year 1895 records her living at No. 14 Victoria Road Dorchester which is also given as her address in the 1901 Census. There is evidence however that many people continued to refer to their address as Great Western Terrace well into the 1890's ]
Vid. (abbreviation for vidua) Latin for widow
videlicet (abbrev: videlt) videlt is latin for "clearly, evidently (ironical) of course (explaining) namely" Source Collins Latin Dictionary
vidua (abbrev: vid:) Latin for:-widow
viduus latin for:-widower
vill Old English (from the Latin villa) A village ; a part of a parish. [Source:- The New Complete Dictionary of the English Language by John Ash Volume 2 published 1775]
villein or villain

a feudal tenant entirely subject to a lord or manor to whom he paid dues and services in return for land. (see also 'feudalism'). The term was introduced in Norman times and he was free in regard to everyone except his feudal lord, which meant that he was bound to his holding. Even there, he held his land hereditarily only by right of the custom of the manor. His work service was of two kinds: week work i.e. regular agricultural work done each week; and boon work which was extra work done at important stages in the agricultural year e.g. harvest

A villein could not bring a suit in the king's court, and could not marry without his Lords permission; but he had rights even against his lord. which were protected by the Manor Court. His holding - a house and, usually, a garden plot on which there was often an orchard - carried with it the right to a certain number of arable strips of land, the right to graze a certain number of beasts in the pasture, and the right to a certain crop of hay from the meadow. Villein status virtually died out by 1500, after which time the villein's descendants became entirely free and held their land of the Lord of the Manor by Copyhold

virgate Usually thirty acres of arable land scattered among the common fields of a manor, but it varied from as little as ten acres to as many as eighty in some parts of the country. It was a quarter of a hide and was also known as a yardland.
Visitation Archdeacons were supposed to visit their archdeaconaries once a year and bishops their dioceses every three years. A good explanation is given in The Dictionary of Genealogy by Terrick VH Fitz Hughrevised 1988 Alphabooks
vizt viz - to witt, namely (from videelicet) Often used as an abbreviation in Dorchester Wills. Source the New and Complete Dictionary of the English Language Published by John Ash in 1775
wadden viz - Wadden is a hamlet in the Parish of Portesham
wainscotte [wynscott or wenscott] woodden panelling to line the walls of a room but the word is also used to describe a panneled chest or chairs etc.
waking An all night vigil (usually by a close friend) next to the body laid out in the church prior to burial, sometimes accompanied by ritual observances
warming pan A flat metal pan with a lid and a long handle which was filled with hot coals and used to warm a bed before retiring at night. Picture Link
wascote, wasacote waistcoat
MEN: The waistcoat has been one of the standard pieces of formal dress in the West since the late sixteenth century, and it has gone through several changes over time. From the sixteenth through the eighteenth centuries, men's waistcoats were long-sleeved garments worn as middle layers of clothing, over a shirt but underneath a topcoat or justaucorps. Some men's waistcoats extended only to the waist, hence their name, while others continued several inches lower. Generally, they grew shorter as time passed. Waistcoats were buttoned down the front, and featured collars and pockets. By the eighteenth century, a man's formal suit consisted of a coat, waistcoat, and breeches, or pants
WOMEN: Women also sometimes wore waistcoats between their outer-wear and underwear. Some were sleeved but most were sleeveless. Unlike menswear, however, women's waistcoats were considered intimate apparel, and were not meant to be seen by anyone but the wearer. Still, they cannot be classified as underwear. By the eighteenth century, women wore vest-like waistcoats as riding attire and white, snugly sleeved waistcoats as blouses with long skirts. Read more: Waistcoat - Fashion, Costume, and Culture: Clothing, Headwear, Body Decorations, and Footwear through the Ages http://www.fashionencyclopedia.com/fashion_costume_culture/European-Culture-17th-Century/Waistcoat.html#ixzz1EaV44IUU
waste the land of a manor, not devoted to arable,meadow or wood. It usually lay on the manorial boundaries and was used for pasture, and was gradually assarted (brought under cultivation) over the centuries. Applications to build on the waste had to have permission from the Lord of the manor and be approved at the Quarter Sessions.
Waterson Waterson is a hamlet in Puddletown
wayne wagon or cart
waywarden Overseers accounts sometimes refer to "Way Wardens". The Highways Act of 1555 transferred the responsibility for maintaining the roads from Manors to the Parish Vestry. Each parishioner owning ploughland or keeping a plough horse was required to provide a cart for 4 days a year for use in road repairs. Similarly each able bodied parishioner was required to give 4 days labour a year (increased to 6 days in 1563) or pay a fine in lieu. The act also established the office of Surveyor of the Highways (also called Waywardens) & made the churchwardens, constable and some parishioners responsible for selecting such an officer. From 1662 the selection was made by a majority of parishioners and finally in 1691 the Vestry was expected to produce a short list from which the Justices of the Peace sected a Surveyor for the ensuing year - he was not paid. His job was to organise whatever work needed doing and ensure this was carried out properly. Repairs usually consisted of filling potholes with stones, which would be quarried nearby. Less frequently the work might consist of repairing a bridge or clearing of ditches or watercourses. At the end of each year the Waywardens (often two per Parish) would draw up an account of income and expenditure and submit it to the Justices of the Peace for approval. Wheeled vehicles were rare until the mid sixteenth century and they caused much more damage to roads than horses. As coaches and carriages became more common the cost to parishioners rose & was not always sufficient to effect repairs. The Highways Act of 1691 authorised the levying of a Highways Rate. For the next 140 years the cost of repairs was covered by a combination of statute labour and a highway rate. 
'Weigh Bridge Inn'

1861 Census Living at 43 Grove Buildings - John Stone Head Married aged 45 Cooper & Innkeeper born Bradpole, with wife & 3 children

1865 Harrods Directory - John Stone, 'Weigh Bridge Inn' Grove Buildings West Fordington

1868 19 Nov - Weymouth Telegram report of inquest into death of James Richard Russell - deposition by Richard Notley refers to him going to the Weybridge Inn to drink

1871 Census living at 43 Grove Buildings West Fordington - John Stone Head Married aged 55 Innkeeper born Bradpole, with wife 2 children & neice

1875 Post Office Directory - John Stone, 'Weigh Bridge Inn' Grove Buildings [West Fordington]

1889 Kellys Directory John Stone, Grove buildings [West Fordington] 'Weighbridge Inn' , Commercial

1895 Kellys Directory - Edward Wheeler 'Weigh Bridge Public House' , 47 The Grove

weilles, welles,wheales, wheles, wheilles wheels
West Back Street (Back West Street)

'West Back Street' is in Holy Trinity Parish in Dorchester .was renamed 'Princess Street' in the late 1850's

(See 1771 Map of Dorchester) --- In 1771 'Prince's Street' was called 'West Back Street'. The roads/walks it connects were also called by different names . 'West Walk Road' was previously called 'The Old Walks' or 'Bowling Alley Walks' . 'Trinity Street' was previously called 'South Back Street'

(See 1611 Map of Dorchester) --- In 1611 there were no houses in what was to become 'West Back Street' only a lane providing access to enclosed fields within the ruins of the old Roman Walls.

wether (weather, weyther, weder, wedere, wayder) Wether: a male sheep, especially a castrated ram. Example will of William BOONE 1580 husbandman of Fordington who bequests to his sister Margaret 'twenty sheep (ten ewes and lambs and ten weather sheep)''
Whatcombe Whatcombe is a hamlet within the Parish of Winterborne Whitchurch
"White Hart Inn" (or White Heart Inn or White Hart Hotel )

The White Hart Inn was situated in All Saints Parish in High East Street in Dorchester Dorset -

1737, Burgage Rate for the Parish of All Saints in Dorchester (MRD Page 694) shows that Ann Batt was charged 6 pence for his house (The White Hart)

1753, March 29. In All Saints' Parish, bounded on west by the Common Gaol of the County of Dorset, on east by the Great River, and on south by High East Street. B. 65. - Source MRD

1783, September 18th - Mr Robert Stickland having purchased the "White Hart Inn" in the parish of All Saints within the said Borough by the desire of the Corporation for the sum of £680 the same is approved of, and Resolved that the east part thereof be pulled down as soon as conveniently may be after the purchase is completed and that as a considerable sum of money will be wanting to carry out the scheme into execution. It is further resolved that application be made to our present representatives for the favour of their aid and assistance to enable us to perform the same (C27) MRD Page 507 (This effected an improvement at the eastern entrance to the town).

1784, - From Corporation Accounts MRD Page 488 - To money given by the Trustees of Blandford and Dorchester Turnpike towards the purchase of the White Hart Inn at the Entrance into the East end of the town of Dorchester, and for taking down that part of the house that projected into High East Street and throwing the same into the Turnpike ---£100 Money

1791 - 13 May - Will of James Miller Besant (1741-1792) was signed on 13 May 1791 and proved on the 13 Apr 1792. In it he states "I give and devise unto my beloved wife Sarah [BESANT] all that my messuage or dwelling house wherein I now live with its appurtenances and also all that my messuage or dwelling house called or known by the sign of the WHITE HART situate in the Parish of All Saints in Dorchester aforesaid which I lately purchased of the Corporation.

"1795, - See Will of Sarah Besant Widow of James Besant Maltster & Brewer of Dorchester - Hester [Esther] and her sister Sarah Besant inherit the White Hart in All Saints Parish. Hester and at some point sells her interest in the White Hart to her brother Thomas Gatehouse Besant (1778-1808) and from 1808 his widow Ann Besant runs the White Heart.

1830, Pigots Directory, White Hart, Publican Ann Beasant, High East Street Dorchester

1830, 17 May - Elizabeth Bellinger said to belong to North Cadbury Somerset aged 17 died at the White Heart Inn in All Saints Parish buried 17th May

1839, Roberts Directory, White Heart, Publican George Kenall, High East Street Dorchester

1841, Census High East Street, All Saints Parish Dorchester, George Kendall age 30-34 Publican

1842, Pigots Directory, Dorchester Dorset, Page 121 under Taverns and Public Houses - 'White Hart' George Kendall, High East Street

1844, Pigots Directory, George Kendall, High East street Dorchester

1851, Census All Saints Parish Dorchester, White Hart Inn, Richard Gaulton aged 50 years Innkeeper born Burleston

1852, Slaters Directory - White Hart Hotel Richard Gaulton, High East Street - Also 2nd entry for 'Inland Revenue Office - at the White Hart High West Street' [Note:- Richard Gaulton previously worked at the Antelope Inn]

1861, Census All Saints Parish Dorchester, White Heart Hotel 53 High East St - Charles Dunn Mar age 42 Hotel Keeper born Gillingham with his wife Jane Dunn mar age 35 born Yenston (just east of Henstridge) Somerset and 5 children. [Note:-In 1851 Cesnsus Charles was a Porter and he was living with Jane and 2 children in South Street Wincanton in Somerset. They had arrived in Dorchester to live however by 1856 but Charles died in 1863 at the age of 44 and was buried at the civic cemetery Weymouth Ave Dorchester in grave 1847 ]

1865, - Harrods Directory, Ambrose Brown 'White Hart' London Road? (Maybe private address rather than the Inn?)

1871, Census living at 53 High East Street "The White Hart Inn" - Ambrose Brown head married Aged 45 Licensed Victualler born Puddletown, with wife 2 sons a servant and boarder

1878, 31 May - Inquest held at the 'White Heart Inn' into the death of Eva Maria Tilley the daughter of Mrs Tilley of Fordington Hill aged 8 who drowned in the River Frome

1881, Census living at 53 High West Street - Ambrose Brown Head married aged 53 Hotel proprietor born Puddletown, with wife, son, lodger, neice & 2 servants

1891, Census living at [53] High West Street 'White Hart Hotel' - Mark Sellers head married aged 31 Hotel proprietor born Ringwood Hants, with wife and sister-in-law

1915 - Kelly's Directory - Mrs Frances Follett, White Hart Hotel 53 High East Street.

1926, - Rebuilt following a fire - Source Dorchester Voice Link to Hardy

2006, - Closed - later demolished

"White Horse Inn"

The White Horse Inn was situated in St Peters Parish on the North side of High East Street in Dorchester, but in Pease Lane from c1861 - [See Advert 1865]

1708 In his Will dated 5th September 1708 Richard Brooks a wagoner of Dorchester left 'All that my messuage burgage or tenement with the appurtenances in the Parish of St Peter's in Dorchester aforesaid part whereof I now dwell in and the residue thereof now is, or late was, in the possession of Charles YOUNG [a] barber and John WHITE [a] taylor for the term of her natural life. After her death it was to descend to their eldest son Caleb Brooks. As per the Genealogical Notes I have made under his will it appears that probate was granted to his wife in 1708/9 but she did not complete administration and died intestate in 1719/20. Administration of both his father's and mother's estates then passed to their eldest son Caleb Brooks.

1730 - In his will dated 6th Oct 1730 Caleb Brooks states:- First: I give and devise unto my son Caleb BROOKS [i.e.Caleb BROOKS Junior (1722-1763) ] his heirs and assigns all that my Messuage Burgage or Tenement with all and singular the appurtenances thereunto belonging situate in the Parish of St Peter within the Borough of Dorchester aforesaid in the North side of High East Street there now in the possession and ternary of John MARTIN Periwig maker commonly called or known by the name of the "White Horse Inn" To hold the said lands and premises unto my said son Caleb BROOKS his heirs and assigns for ever,

1737 Burgage Rate for the Parish of St Peters Dorchester (MRD Page 692) Caleb Brook's House (The White Horse) [Note:- Caleb Brooks the Elder was the brother of Mary Channing (1687-1705/6) who was burnt at the stake for poisoning her husband. Caleb's brother Joshua ]

1861 Census living at 'White Horse Inn' Pease Lane - Charles Hodges Head Married Aged 54 Licensed Victualler & Tailor born Dorchester with his wife, 3 children and a boarder

1865 Harrods Directory - Charles Hodges 'White Horse Inn' and Tailor Pease Lane (See Advert)

1871 Census living at Pease Lane, "White Horse Inn" Holy Trinity Parish - Charles Hodges Head Married aged 64 Innkeeper & Tailor, with wife Emily 2 daughters, grandson, servant 5 lodgers

1881 Census living at Pease Lane, 'White Horse' - Emily Hodges head widow aged 62 Publican born Alfpuddle,with daughter & boarder

1889 Post Office Directory - Joseph Pope, Pease Lane, 'White Horse Public House', Commercial

1891 - Bridport News published 16 Jan 1891 - Marriages - HUDSON - POPE - January 12 at Holy Trinity Church Dorchester by the Rev.H.Everett, Sergeant W.H. HUDSON R.H.A. to Elizabeth daughter of Mr J.POPE of the 'White Horse Inn' Dorchester

1891 Census - Pease Lane 'White Horse Inn' Holy Trinity Parish - Inn Keeper was Joseph Pope age 61 born Dorchester also a haulage contractor. with his wife Elizabeth his neice and 3 lodgers

1895 - Kelly's Directory - Joseph Plaister 'White Horse Public House' 33 Colliton St

1901 Census - 33 Coliton St St Peters Parish 'White Horse Inn'- InnKeeper was William Henry CROCKER Head age 31 with wife Ida age 28 with 2 children and 4 boarders.

whitechurch Refers to the Parish of Winterborne Whitechurch
whitesmith A person who makes articles out of metal especially tin, often refers to a person who polishes metal goods
Whitwell According to John Hutchins, Whitwell was a Tithing under the Manor of Fordington [Link to Fordington's entry in John Hutchins “The History and Antiquities of the County of Dorset” published 1860-1874]. He also states that it is in 'Frome Whitfield' although this hamlet came under the Parish of Holy Trinity in Dorchester from the year 1610]
whittle a fringed mantle worn by women out of doors
a 'Whole Place' A 'whole place' referred to a plot withinin the 3,097 acres of Fordington Fields which contained between 40 and 60 acres of land and usually had a tenement. Links to 'Notes on Fordington Manor' by Henry Joseph Moule: Tithe Map of Fordington - 1844 showing plots : Surveys of Tenant Plots in 1600:    1615:   1650 .
widdoe or (widdow; widdowe or abbreviated to wid:) widow
wif , wyf or wyfe wife
wimsheet wimsheet - see wynowing shet
window tax In 1696 a new tax on houses replaced the Hearth Tax which had been discontinued a few years earlier. One of the chief objections to the latter had been that it meant the intrusion of inspectors into private dwellings. The window tax was assessed from outside and was imposed on occupiers not the owners and small dwellings whose occupants did not pay poor rates were exempt. All paid a basic 2 shillings but houses with 10 to 20 windows paid 8 shillings and rates for large houses was increased in 1709. Householders would reduce their rates by blocking up non essential windows. In 1747 the act was repealed and replaced by a new one where in addition to the basic rate houses with 10 to 14 windows paid 6 pence per window; those with over 20 windows paid 1 shilling per window with rates being increased in the 1750's and 1760's. It was abolished in 1851
Winterborne Farringdon & Winterborne Germain Winterborne Faringdon, the latter part of the name derived from the name of former landholders, also known at one time as Saint Germain's due to the dedication of the church that once stood here. It also occurs in old records as Winterborne Germain. It was once a parish, but became depopulated and the church was in ruins by 1648. It became united to the rectory of Winterborne Came in 1751. It lies just west of Winterborne Herringston and between that and Winterborne Came, a mile to the east. [Source http://www.weymouth-dorset.co.uk/herringston.html]
wth or wch  & (also 'wth in' or 'wth out') An abbreviation commonly used in 17th century Wills, often difficult to distinquish whether w'th' or w'ch' according to the handwriting, so will mean 'with'or 'which' according to the context of the sentence. Also when followed by the letters 'in' or 'out' as shown means 'within' or 'without'
"Wood and Stone "

(or "Wood and Stone TavernInn")

1770 in the 1737 Burgage Rate for St Peters parish in Dorchester (1st column Page 693 MRD )- William Marshfield's House (called 'The Wood and Stone Inn' 1770)

1799 - Mr Thomas ROBERTS victualler - Entry in The Monthy Magazine Vol 8 page 760 - " Died at Dorchester, Mr T. ROBERTS of the 'Wood and Stone Inn' ". [Note:- Thomas ROBERTS married Jane SLADE at St Peters Church in Dorchester on 10th May 1789. See his will dated 1st June 1799, he was buried St Peters Church Dorchester 30th Aug 1799, will proved 27th Feb 1800. After his death his widow Jane remarried to George LOCK at St Peters on 13th May 1804. ]

1804 - Salisbury and Winchester Journal - Mon 16th July 1804 - A desirable Freehold Estate To be Sold at Auction by Mr Baker at The 'Wood and Stone Inn' at Dorchester Freehold estate called Smethams etc

1811 17th January - Taunton Courier - Mr Brice 'Wood and Stone Inn' Dorchester daughter 10 burnt.

1829 28th Nov - William Masters was innkeeper and his 1st wife Jane Masters gave evidence at the Trial of William KENNEDY (1810-1830) a Soldier in the 5th Dragoon Guards who on the night of 28th Nov 1829 had been in the 'Wood and Stone Inn.' Kennedy was found guilty and executed for wounding Revd. Henry Philip Willoughby (1804-1851). .

1830 Pigots Directory, 'Wood and Stone' Publican William Masters, Durngate Street Dorchester. His wife Jane appears to have died from complications arising from childbirth and was buried at All Saints still only aged 31 on 10th Jan 1831. William MASTERS remarried to Elizabeth FORD at St Peters church in Dorchester on16th April 1832.

1833- Dorset County Chronicle - Thursday 3rd Oct 1833 - To Be SOLD About Thirty Casks for two to two and a half hogsheads each, fit for cider. Apply to Mr William MASTERS 'Wood and Stone Inn' Dorchester. As far as I know William continued to run the Wood and Stone Inn until his death in 1834

1839 Roberts Directory, 'Wood and Stone' , Publican J. Tullidge, Durngate Street Dorchester

1841 Census living in Durngate Street John Tullidge aged 35 to 39 Publican with wife 4 children & 3 servants

1842 Pigots Directory, Dorchester Dorset, Page 121 under Taverns and Public Houses - 'Wood and Stone ' John Tullidge, Durngate Street

1844 Pigots Directory, 'Wood and Stone' , John Tullidge, Durngate Street Dorchester

1851 Census living Durngate Street 'Wood and Stone Inn' - John Tullidge head married aged 47 Innkeeper and Farmer of 98 acres born Dorchester

1851 - Hampshire Advertiser - Sat 12 July 1851 - Death: On the 5th Instant at Wye near Weymouth, Mrs TULLIDGE, wife of mr John TULLIDGE of the 'Wood and Stone Inn' Dorchester aged 47 years.

1852 Slaters Directory - 'Wood and Stone' , John Tullidge, Durngate Street.

1854 - Dorset County Chronicle - Thurs 6th Apr 1854 - To be Let 'The Wood and Stone Inn' Dorchester Coming in moderate. Apply on the premises or at the Dragon Brewery Dorchester

1855 Dorset County Chronicle - Thursday 5th July and Thursday 16th Aug 1855 - Advertisemant - WOOD AND STONE INN DORCHESTER - Charles HARDING (for the past 5 years Head Hostler at the Antelope Hotel) begs to announce to the Nobility, Gentry and Inhabitants of Dorchester and its vicinity that he has taken the above Old-Established INN and hopes by strict attention to business and by supplying wines sspirits and malt liquers of the best quality (which it is his intention to do) to merit a share of the public patronage and support.
Well aired beds. Good Stabling. Lock up Coach House. Saddle Horses, Gigs, and Four Wheels close at hand.

1860 - Dorset County Chronicle - Thursday 10th May 1860 - Marriage: May 9th at Yeovil of Mr C.DURDEN of the 'Wood and Stone Inn at Dorchester to Miss Hannah TUCKER of Frome St Quinton.

' 1861 Census living at Durngate Street St Peters Parish 'Wood and Stone Inn' - Charles T Durden Head Married Aged 25 Victualler born Charminster with wife son, father, 2 servants + 3 lodgers

1863 - Dorset County Chronicle - Thursday 1st Oct 1863 - To Be Let - The Wood and STONE INN Dorchester - Apply to Messrs Eldridge, Mason and Co The Brewery Dorchester.

1865 Harrods Directory - Robert B.Symes 'Wood and Stone Inn' Durngate Street, Dorchester

1870's National Archives Dorchester Methodist Church - When referring to the Wesleyan Chapel in Durngate Street it states "In the 1870's a new site was purchased on the corner of Durngate Street and South Street. This included the 'Wood and Stone Inn'. The new larger Chapel opened in 1875. "

1873 Western Times - Wed 22nd Jan 1873 : WESLEYAN giving at Dorchester - This body held its first service in that town on Tuesday in aid of a fund for building a chapel. Though the weather was rough there was a large attendance. The new chapel is to be built in a plain but substatial manner, in South Street, opposite the Post Office. Part of the site has been given by one of the county members, H Gerard STURT Esq., the present chapel and £300 has been given for the "Wood and Stone Inn." The Rev. J.Jackson WRAY of London preached -- article continues with more info on fund raising etc.

1875 Blandford and Wimborne Telgram Fri 21 May 1875 - Long article about Opening the New Wesleyan Chapel in Dorchester : Extract ---- So the Wood-and-Stone public house and some old buildings in front of it were raised to the ground and made way for the new Wesleyan Chapel".

woodman A person working in woodland, especially a forester or woodcutter [not a carpenter]. The new and complete dictionary of the English language published in 1775 refers to him as "someone who takes care of woods; a hunter, a sportsman". As far as I can see around Dorchester they were often employed by the larger landowners to manage their woodland, cutting timber. This was then trimmed into uniform lengths by 'woodcutters' and stacked to season before being taken to the sawmill by a 'carrier'.
Woodyates East Woodyates is a hamlet within the Parish of Pentride in Dorset and adjacent to it is the extra-parochial liberty of West Woodyates
Woolbridge Woolbridge is a hamlet in the parish of East Stoke Dorset
woolstapler A person who buys wool from a producer, grades it (by the quality of the staple or fiber), and sells it to a manufacturer
wynowing shet or (winnowing sheete, wydowynge cloth; wimsheet; winsheat; winsheet) large sheet or cloth on which corn was winnowed or a sheet or sack over an unglazed window to keep out the cold
xpõfor (or xtopher) xpõfor = Christopher - Some parish priests looked upon the 'x' as the cross of Christ and used it to abbreviate 'Christopher' to 'xpõfor' or 'xtopher' in parish registers. I have seen ''xtian' for 'Christian' as well (see below) but not so often. Examples in Dorchester are William son of Xtopher [Christopher] & Sarah PARKER baptised at Holy Trinity Church on 13 Nov 1763; and Elizabeth daughter of Xtopher & Sarah PARKER bap HT 15 Mar 1769 here it is written in full on the original register but abbreviated to Xtopher in the copy.
xtian (also xpian) xtian = Christian (See comments above for 'Xtopher') Examples:-
'Xtian CHAPLINE married Thomas (Thomasine) BIRDE' at Sherborne Abbey 13th September 1579 :
In the Will of Henrici CHOWNTE Husbandman of Fordington his wife is referred to as Xpian (Chrispian)
'Xtian the daughter of Thomas WINSOR was christened the viij [8th ] day of March' 1607 at St Georges Church Fordington :
Christian WHITE nee BARNES of Fordington who married Hamnet WHITE at St Georges Church on 28th Feb 1608 has her name recorded as Christian in the marriage register but Xpianius [Latin for Chrispian] in the letter of Administration granted to her for her husbands esate when he died in 1633/4. 'Henry son of Joseph & Xtian CHURCHILL' bap at Holy Trinity 23rd Oct 1751 and Thomas son of Joseph & Xtian Churchill bap Holy Trinity 15th Dec 1769:
xtned xtned = Christened or baptised, often encountered in early baptism registers eg All Saints Church 1708
yardland A yardland is an area of about thity acres. hence a 'half yard meadow' would be an area of about 15 acres of meadowland.
ye the
yelle or ielle aisle - (Late middle English ele, ile from old French ele) The spelling was changed in the late 17thc because of confusion with isle
yeoman

Yeoman in the plantagenet period, meant a knight's retainer. There were also Yeomen of the King's Chamber, who were minor court officials under the Chamberlain. At that period, there was a class of freemen called Franklins, and under the Tudors the name of yeoman gradually became attached to them. Broadley speaking they constituted a stratum of cultivators of the soil, either freeholders or tenants, who differd from the minor gentry more by way of life than by any economic category. The yeoman would put his own hand to work that the gentleman would employ servants to do, and his wife likewise; but many a young man of gentle and even armigerous family was styled yeoman, as long as he lived like one (i.e. until he inherited his father's estate). Below the yeoman class came the equally ill defined stratum of husbandman, whose landholding was normally smaller. The standing of the yeomanry is reflected in the later use of the word for the local volunteer force, mounted on their own horses, as distinct from the (infantry) militia.

Below Yeoman class came the equally ill-defined stratum of Husbandman, whose landholding was normally smaller. [Source Dictionary of Genealogy byTerrick VH FitzHughpun 1985]

yeoting or yeoteing fate or yoting vat or yotinge fate yeoting is the process of soaking barley before making malt; a yeoting fate is the vat used for the purpose
yewre or (ewre, owre, youre) ewer; a pitcher with a wide spout, used to bring water to the table for washing hands in a basin [often spelt 'basing'], before and after meals. Some could be very elaborate such as those at the British Museum or sold a Christies and were often made of brass or silver but there is no indication in the inventories that I have seen from Dorchester as to what they were made of.
York Terrace York Terrace is a row of houses accessed from Fordington Hill via an alleyway labeled on the 1901 Ordnance Survey Map as Hillside Terrace. Example:- Henry & Edith Fry lived at 11 York Terrcace Fordington Hill on 15th July 1900 when they had their daughter Ethel Maud baptised at St Georges Church
yous 'ewes' when used in the right context.
xxxx xxxx

Dorchester/Fordington Page      OPC Page