ABCP110/118-124

Deposition of Thomas Essex of Sharnbrook, parish clerk, 50;

14 June 1716

From: 1716 To: 1716

When about 2 years ago there was no service, he was sent to Mr. Styles of Podington to ask him to do it, 'but for want of timely notice he excused himself.' Holy days have generally been neglected, but 7 years ago on the two days after Xmas there were prayers & a considerable congregation; Bolton said 'Tom, what a brave encouragement have we here', & has sometimes done it since but not constantly. 6 years ago when John Hide was to be buried the bell was tolled for 1 hour; 'those who accompanied [ the corpse] told deponent that they would lay the body in the ground' which they did; next day Bolton said service at grave in deponent's presence. 'One or two persons who have died of the smallpox have been put into the ground and some mould thrown over them, & then Mr. Bolton hath stood at some distance & read the service (Mr. Bolton having never had the smallpox).' Bolton has however sometimes got up at night to baptise children. Believes tithes £60 per annum. Confirms Tiffin's practice. Dr. Godfrey 'hath several times given Mr. Bolton very ill words behind his back.'

item

Bolton, John,
Essex, Thomas,
Styles,
Hide, John,
Tiffin, William,
Godfrey

Archdeacon's Court, legal papers, SHARNBROOK, parish clerk, PODINGTON, church services, burials, smallpox, baptism, tithes