Volume 2 – Kent: The Alchins of Meopham, Leybourne and the Mallings

Part 3 – Alchins of Leybourne and the Mallings, Kent 1680 – 1901 ...continued...

1.1.5.8.5.7  ~~  Charles Alchin

Charles was born at East Malling in 1830 and he was baptised at St James' church, East Malling on 24th October 1830. The 1841 census records that he was living with his parents at Mill Street, East Malling – by this time he would probably have been working as an agricultural labourer. Charles was a witness at the wedding of his sister Jane at East Malling in 1850. The 1851 census records that Charles was an agricultural labourer lodging at Burham, Kent.

After the publication of the banns at St James' church, East Malling on 3rd, 10th and 17th February 1861, Charles married Amy Hodges at West Malling on 3rd March 1861(Malling 1861 March qtr Volume 2a Page 491); she was born at West Malling in 1840 the daughter of Daniel Hodges a labourer. The ceremony was performed by Rev'd Walter Blunt and the witnesses were William Alchin and Mary Somers.

Charles and Amy had at least twelve children – Alice (1860), Elizabeth (1862), Alfred (1864), Charles (1865), Emily (1867), Amy (1869), Ellen (1871), Thomas (1875), William (1878), George (1881), Sarah (1882) and Caroline (1885). There are a number of gaps in these births which indicate that there were other babies who were stillborn or died in infancy.

The family was extremely nomadic with the children being born in seven different Kentish villages and the second youngest child was born in London. Many of their births were not registered. Charles also seemed unable to remember his own or his children's ages or birthplaces correctly from one census to the next.

The 1861 census records that Charles was employed as an agricultural labourer and he and his young family were living at Mill Street, East Malling. The 1871 census records that Charles was an agricultural labourer and he and his wife and six of their children were living at Cottage # 57, Hartley (James Alchin of Kingsdown was living only a couple of cottages away).

The 1881 census finds the family at a different location again. Charles, his wife and seven children were living at St Paul's Cray, Kent where Charles was employed as a farm labourer. The 1891 census records that Charles was still an agricultural labourer and he and his wife and four of their children were now living at Eschol Farm, Hoo.

Amy died in 1892 aged 52 years (Hoo 1892 March qtr Volume 2a Page 498). Charles may have died in 1899 aged 70 years (Strood 1899 September qtr Volume 2a Page 419). He is not recorded in the 1901 census. Charles and Amy's youngest son George was lost with the battle cruiser "HMS Invincible" which exploded and sank at the Battle of Jutland in 1916 with the loss of over a thousand lives.

1.1.5.8.5.7.1  ~~  Alice Alchin

Alice was born at West Malling on 30th June 1860 (Malling 1860 December qtr Volume 2a Page 351) and despite her name she was born prior to her parents marriage. The 1861 census records that the 9 month old infant girl was living with her parents at Mill Street, East Malling. It was probably for this reason that Alice was baptised with her younger sister Elizabeth at St Mary's church, West Malling on 4th April 1862.

The 1871 census records that Alice was a school girl and she was living with her family at Cottage # 57, Hartley. Alice married Richard Marshall in late 1880 (Faversham 1880 December qtr Volume 2a Page 1359. Richard was born at Faversham in 1855. The 1881 census records that the young couple were living at 8 Partridge Place, Faversham. Richard was employed as a gravel digger. The couple appear to have had no surviving children.

The 1901 census records that Richard was a licensed victualler. He and his wife and her 15 year old sister Caroline were living at the Public House, Eastchurch. There were also 3 lodgers living with them.

1.1.5.8.5.7.2  ~~  Elizabeth Alchin

Elizabeth was born at West Malling on 14th March 1862 (Malling 1862 June qtr Volume 2a Page 389). She was baptised with her elder sister Alice at St Mary's church, West Malling on 4th April 1862. The 1871 census records that Elizabeth was a school girl and she was living with her family at Hartley.

1.1.5.8.5.7.3  ~~  Alfred Thomas Alchin

Alfred was born at West Malling in 1864 (Malling 1864 June qtr Volume 2a Page 417). The 1871 census records that Alfred was a school boy and he was living with his family at Hartley. The 1881 census records that he was living with his family at St Paul's Cray where he was employed as a farm labourer.

Alfred married Fanny Carter in 1886 (Dartford 1886 June qtr Volume 2a Page 687); she was born at Stone in 1865. Alfred and Fanny had at least four children – Amy (1887), Mary (1890), Edith (1894) and Emily (1898). The 1891 census records that Alfred was a farm labourer and he and his wife and their two daughters were living at 7 Dale Place, Dover Road, Crayford.

The 1901 census records that Alfred was a coal porter and he and his wife and their four daughters were living at 5 University Place, Erith. Alfred died in 1943 aged 78 years (Dartford 1943 March qtr Volume 2a Page 1254). Fanny probably died in 1946 aged 80 years (Dartford 1946 December qtr Volume 5b Page 430).

1.1.5.8.5.7.3.1  ~~  Amy Elizabeth Alchin

Amy was born at Stone in 1887 (Dartford 1887 March qtr Volume 2a Page 456). The 1891 census records that the young girl was living with her family at 7 Dale Place, Dover Road, Crayford. The 1901 census records that Amy was lviing with her parents at 5 University Place, Erith.

1.1.5.8.5.7.3.2  ~~  Mary Ellen Alchin

Mary was born at Stone in 1890 (Dartford 1890 March qtr Volume 2a Page 501). The 1891 census records that the toddler was living with her family at 7 Dale Place, Dover Road, Crayford. The 1901 census records that Mary was living with her family at 5 University place, Erith.

Mary may have married at Bromley in 1912.

1.1.5.8.5.7.3.3  ~~  Edith Emily Alchin

Edith was born at Belvedere in 1894 (Dartford 1894 December qtr Volume 2a Page 459). The 1901 census records that the school girl was living with her family at 5 University Place, Erith. Edith never married and she died in 1966 aged 71 years (Sittingbourne 1966 March qtr Volume 5f Page 765).

1.1.5.8.5.7.3.4  ~~  Emily Rose Alchin

Emily was born at Belvedere in 1898 (Dartford 1898 September qtr Volume 2a Page 510). The 1901 census records that the young girl was living with her family at 5 University Place, Erith. Emily probably married Harry Dines in 1922 (Dartford 1922 December qtr Volume 2a Page 1331).

1.1.5.8.5.7.4  ~~  Charles Alchin

Charles was born at East Sutton, Kent in about 1865. The 1871 census records that the school boy was living with his family at Hartley. The 1881 census records that he was a farm labourer and he lived with his family at St Paul's Cray. Thereafter Charles disappears from the records in England and he must have emigrated.

1.1.5.8.5.7.5  ~~  Emily Alchin

Emily was born at Capel, Kent in about 1867. The 1871 census records that the young girl was lviing with her family at Hartley. The 1881 census records that Emily was a school girl and she was living with her family at St Paul's Cray.

1.1.5.8.5.7.6  ~~  Amy Alchin

Amy was born at Hartley, Kent in about 1869. The 1871 census records that the 4 month old infant was living with her family at Hartley. The 1881 census records that Amy was a school girl and she was living with her family at St Paul's Cray. She may have married at Bromley in 1886.

1.1.5.8.5.7.7  ~~  Ellen Alchin

Ellen was born at Hartley, Kent in about 1871. The 1881 census records that she was a school girl and she was living with her family at St Paul's Cray.

1.1.5.8.5.7.8  ~~  Thomas Alchin

Thomas was born at Shoreham, Kent in 1875 (Sevenoaks 1875 March qtr Volume 2a Page 537) and he was baptised at Shoreham on 4th April 1875. The 1881 census records that he was a school boy and he was living with his family at St Paul's Cray. The 1901 census indicates that Thomas may have enlisted in the British Army, perhaps serving in the Boer War (1900-1902).

1.1.5.8.5.7.9  ~~  William John Alchin

William was born at Under River, Kent in 1878 (Malling 1878 March qtr Volume 2a Page 563). He was living with his family at St Paul's Cray at the time of the 1881 census. The 1891 census records that he was a 14 year old agricultural labourer born at Tonbridge who was living with his parents at Eschol Farm, Hoo.

1.1.5.8.5.7.10  ~~  George Henry Alchin

George was supposedly born at Kennington in London in 1882 (Dartford 1882 June qtr Volume 2a Page 463). The 1891 census records that George was a 12 year old school boy, born at Tonbridge, Kent but this seems like nonsense (he certainly wasn't recorded with his parents in the 1881 census and when he died in 1916 he was aged 34 years according to naval records). He was living with his parents at Eschol Farm, Hoo.

HMS Invincible explodes and sinks at the Battle of Jutland 31st May 1916

The 1901 census records that George (supposedly 21 years old and born at Platt) was a stoker on board HMS Tribune. George joined the Royal Marines Light Infantry and he was given the rank of Private and the regimental number PO/10207. George was assigned to the battle cruiser "HMS Invincible" and he was serving aboard her when she was sunk during the clash of the English and German fleets at the Battle of Jutland on the afternoon of 31st May 1916.

"HMS Invincible" was one of three British battle cruisers lost during the battle due to a combination of the offensive tactics employed by Vice-Admiral Sir David Beatty, poor ship design and superior German gunnery and ammunition. More than 1000 men and boys died when a shell penetrated one of the "Invincible's gun turrets and exploded the ship's magazine.

As a marine, George would probably have been stationed in one of the main gun turrets. There were only 6 survivors in all and George would have been vaporized by the initial explosion or trapped inside his turret without a chance to escape when the ship sank. George is listed on the memorial to the missing at Portsmouth naval base.

1.1.5.8.5.7.11  ~~  Sarah Alchin

Sarah was supposedly born at Wilmington in 1882 according to the 1891 census. She was a school girl and she was living with her parents at Eschol Farm, Hoo.

1.1.5.8.5.7.12  ~~  Caroline Charlotte Alchin

Caroline was born at North Cray in 1885 (Bromley 1885 September qtr Volume 2a Page 432). The 1891 census records that the school girl was living with her family at Eschol Farm, Hoo. The 1901 census records that Caroline was employed as a housemaid, probably by her sister and brother in law (Alice and Richard Marshall) at their public house at Eastchurch.

Caroline married in 1908 (Bromley 1908 September qtr Volume 2a Page 1154).

1.1.5.8.5.8  ~~  James Alchin

James was born at Mill Street and he was baptised at St James' church, East Malling on 10th February 1833. The 1841 census records that James was living with his parents at Mill Street, East Malling. The 1851 census records that he was an unmarried agricultural labourer and he was still living with his family at Mill Street.

The 1861 census records that James was still unmarried and working as an agricultural labourer. He was living with his parents at 28 Mill Street, East Malling. There is no further sign of this man.

1.1.5.8.5.9  ~~  Thomas Alchin

Thomas was the second son to be baptised with this name. He was baptised at St James' church, East Malling on 1st March 1835. The 1841 census records that Thomas was living with his parents at Mill Street, East Malling. The 1851 census records that Thomas was an unmarried agricultural labourer and he was still living with his family at Mill Street.

1.1.5.8.5.10  ~~  Betsy Alchin

Betsy was born at Mill Street in 1838 (Malling 1838 June qtr Volume 5 Page 307) and she was baptised at St James' church, East Malling on 15th July 1838. Betsy was not recorded with her family in the 1841 census and she had probably died. She may actually have died in early 1839 (Malling 1839 March qtr Volume 5 Page 235).

1.1.5.8.5.11  ~~  William Alchin

William was born at Mill Street in early 1841 (Malling 1841 March qtr Volume 5 Page 325) and he was baptised at St James' church, East Malling on 21st February 1841. The 1841 census records that the baby boy was living with his parents at Mill Street, East Malling. The 1851 census records that he was a school boy and he was still living with his parents at Mill Street. The 1861 census records that William was still living with his parents at 28 Mill Street, East Malling. He was employed as an agricultural labourer.

After the publication of the banns on 5th, 12th and 19th January 1862, William married Susan Eversfield at St James' church, East Malling on 26th January 1862 (Malling 1862 March qtr Volume 2a Page 459). The witnesses were Albert Burr Luck (William Luck married Rachel Alchin at East Malling in 1806) and Eliza Mills who were married the same day. Susan Eversfield was born at East Malling in about 1838 and she was the daughter of Stephen Eversfield, a labourer. The wedding certificate reveals that William Alchin was a labourer and his father had already died.

William and Susan had at least five children – William (1862), Eliza (1865), Harry (1869), George (1871) and Caroline (1875). The 1871 census records that William was an agricultural labourer and he was living with his wife, their two eldest surviving children, his sister in law and a niece at 22 Mill Street, East Malling.

The 1881 census records that William and his family were living at Mill Street, East Malling where William was employed as an agricultural labourer and Susan as a char woman (cleaning lady). The 1891 census records that all of William and Susan's children had left home. William was an agricultural labourer and his wife a laundress. They were still living at Mill Street, East Malling. Also living with them was Susan's 58 year old widowed sister Sarah Mitchell who was employed as a rag cutter at the paper mill.

The 1901 census records that William and Susan were still living at Mill Street, East Malling and he was still working as a farm labourer. Susan died at Well Street in 1911 aged 75 years (Malling 1911 June qtr Volume 2a Page 422). She was buried at East Malling on 3rd June 1911. William may have died in 1917 aged 76 years (Maidstone 1917 March qtr Volume 2a Page 1443).

1.1.5.8.5.11.1  ~~  William Henry Alchin

William was baptised at St James' church, East Malling on 18th May 1862. William died at Mill Street, East Malling aged only 6 years and he was buried at East Malling on 28th July 1868 (Malling 1868 September qtr Volume 2a Page 333).

1.1.5.8.5.11.2  ~~  Eliza Sophia Alchin

Eliza was born at Mill Street, East Malling in late 1865 (Malling 1865 December qtr Volume 2a Page 437). She was baptised at St James' church, East Malling on 4th February 1866. The 1871 census records that the school girl was living with her family at 22 Mill Street, East Malling.

The 1881 census records that Eliza was employed as a servant by George and Ruth Wakeford and she was living with them at 21 Knightrider Street, Maidstone. Eliza may have married either William Henry Allsop or William Edward Vidler in London in 1891.

1.1.5.8.5.11.3  ~~  Harry Alchin

Harry was born at Mill Street, East Malling in 1869 (Malling 1869 June qtr Volume 2a Page 459) and he was baptised at St James' church, East Malling on 21st February 1869. The 1871 census records that the young boy was living with his family at 22 Mill Street, East Malling.

The 1881 census records that Harry was a school boy and he was living with his family at Mill Street, East Malling. Harry died at Mill Street in 1884 aged only 15 years (Malling 1884 September qtr Volume 2a Page 355). He was buried at East Malling on 6th July 1884.

1.1.5.8.5.11.4  ~~  George Alchin

George was born at Mill Street, East Malling in late 1871 or more likely in early 1872 (Malling 1872 March qtr Volume 2a Page 514).  He was baptised at St James' church, East Malling on 17th March 1872. The 1881 census records that George was a school boy and he was living with his family at Mill Street, East Malling.

The 1891 and 1901 census record that george was a gunner in the Royal Marines. In 1891 he was serving aboard HMS Neptune at Portsmouth and in 1901 he was at Eastney Barracks, Southampton. George probably died at Mill Street in 1905 aged 34 years (Malling 1905 December qtr Volume 2a Page 416). He was buried at East Malling on 21st December 1905.

1.1.5.8.5.11.5  ~~  Caroline Alchin

Caroline was born at Mill Street, East Malling in 1875 (Malling 1875 June qtr Volume 2a Page 5-8). She was baptised at St James' church, East Malling on 20th June 1875. The 1881 census records that Caroline was a school girl and she was still living with her family at Mill Street, East Malling. The 1891 census records that Caroline was employed as a domestic servant by Edward Plater and she was living at his home, Mill House on Mill Street, East Malling.

Caroline married George Henry Bailey in 1893 (Malling 1893 December qtr Volume 2a Page 1346); George was born at Mereworth in 1864. George and Caroline had at least two children – Mary (1895) and Gertrude (1897). The 1901 census records that George was an agricultural labourer and he and his family were living at East Malling.

1.1.5.8.5.11.5.1  ~~  Mary Bailey

Mary was born at East Malling in 1895. The 1901 census records that Mary was living with her family at East Malling.

1.1.5.8.5.11.5.2  ~~  Gertrude Bailey

Gertrude was born at East Malling in 1897. The 1901 census records that Gertrude was living with her parents at East Malling.

1.1.5.9  ~~  Anthony Alchin

Anthony was baptised at St James' church, East Malling on 22nd April 1744. It seems probable that he died at the age of about 28 years. An Anthony Alchin junior was buried at East Malling on 2nd April 1772 and it is likely that this was this man. This theory is strengthened by the fact that Anthony was not mentioned (but seven of his brothers and sisters were) in their father's will dated 1775.

1.2  ~~  Thomas Alchin

Thomas was probably born in the late 1640's or 1650's. He appears to have married twice – firstly to an unknown woman with whom he had at least three children – Thomas (1675), Henry (1676) and Elisabeth (c1678). These children would all have been born by 1680 as they were married in the 1690's.

Thomas may have been the cordwainer of Ryarsh who indentured John Huggins in 1690 (further research is required but we know that he baptised at least two children at Ryarsh in the 1670's). Thomas was left the sum of 40 pounds and smaller legacies were left to his children and grandchildren when his father, Thomas Alchin of Leybourne, died in 1702.

"Imprimis I give and bequeath unto my Sonn Thomas Alchin the Sume of Forty pounds to be paid unto him by my Executor hereinafter named within one Yeare next after my decease

Item I give and bequeath unto my Grandsonn Thomas Alchin Sonn of my Said Sonn Thomas Alchin the Sume of five pounds to be paid unto him within one Yeare next after my Decease by my Executor

Item I give and bequeath unto my greate grandchild Thomas Alchin Sonn of my Said Grandsonn Thomas Alchin the Sume of five pounds to be paid unto him att his Age of One and twenty Yeares by my Executor if he shall live to attaine that Age but if he dye before he attaine his Said Age of One and twenty Yeares then I give and bequeath the Same Sume of five pounds unto my greate grandaughter Mary - the daughter of my sd. grandSonn Thomas Alchin to be paid att her Age of one and Twenty Yeares

Item I give and bequeath unto my GrandSonn Henry Alchin Sonn of my said Sonn Thomas Alchin the Sume of five pounds to be paid unto him within one Yeare next after my decease by my Executor

Item I give and bequeath unto my grandaughter Elizabeth the wife of William Tong the Sum of five pounds to be paid unto her within one Yeare next after my decease by my Executor".

There is no doubt however that Thomas had property settled on him when he married his first wife and he also probably obtained property from both of his wives' dowries. At the time of his death in 1717 Thomas owned properties in both East and West Malling and he also leased hopgrounds in the parish of Leybourne.

Thomas married his second wife Dorothy Richards at Addington on 2nd June 1711. They had at least four children – Nicholas (1712), Dorothy (1713), John (1714) and Ann (1716). The West Malling parish register records that the parents of the babies were "Thomas Alchin senior and Dorothy".

Thomas appears to have died in his 60s or 70s. He was buried at West Malling on 4th September 1717 and the parish register records that he lived at New Barns. Thomas' will was proved later that year (PRO  Ref: PROB 5/4125) and he left the bulk of his estate to the children of his second marriage, his two sons Nicholas and John (who died within 3 years). Thomas mentions the children of his first marriage but his will only left them minor bequests and they had probably already had property settled on them at the time of their marriages:

"In the name of God Amen I Thomas Alchin the Elder of West Malling in the County of Kent Yeoman being in good health and of sound and perfect mind memory and understanding (praised be Almighty God) therefore I do this present fourteenth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventeen make ordain and declare this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following (that is to say) Imprimis I give and devise all and every my messuage lands tenements and hereditaments with their appurtenances situate lying and being in West Malling aforesaid and East Malling in the said County of Kent unto my two sons Nicholas and John Alchin by my now wife Dorothy and unto such after born son or sons of my body on her the said Dorothy begotten (if any) equally to be divided between them and their heirs lawfully issuing at their respective age and ages of one and twenty years and for default of such heirs of the bodies of my said sons Nicholas and John Alchin respectively and of such after born son or sons (if any) I give and devise all and every my said messuage lands tenements and hereditaments with their appurtenances unto my two daughters Dorothy and Ann Alchin by my now wife Dorothy and unto such after born daughter or daughters of my body on her the said Dorothy begotten (if any) equally to be divided between them and their heirs provided always nevertheless and my mind and will is that my said messuage lands tenements and hereditaments shall be charged with and liable unto the several annuities or yearly and other rent charge or payments legacies and sums of money hereinafter by me given bequeathed and devised out of and charged upon the same in manner hereinafter mentioned Item I give and devise unto my daughter Elizabeth Tong wife of William Tong for and during the natural life of her mother in law Ann Tong one annuity or yearly rent charge of five pounds and four shillings of lawful money of Great Britain to be issuing going forth payable and paid out of all and every my said messuage lands tenements and hereditaments tax free by quarterly payments (viz) at Michaelmas Christmas Lady Day and Midsummer the first payment thereof to begin and be made at the first of the said feasts or days of payment which shall next happen after my decease And I do hereby appoint my son Thomas Alchin and my friend Edward Sedgwick and their heirs to receive and take the said annuity or yearly rent charge of five pounds and four shillings upon trust and confident and to the intent and purposes that my said son Thomas and the said Edward Sedgwick and their heirs shall and may during the natural life of her said mother in law Ann Tong pay out and dispose of the same and every part thereof  ……………………. Item I give and bequeath unto my said two daughters Dorothy and Ann the sum of fifty pounds apiece to be paid unto them severally at their respective ages of one and twenty years if they shall so long live but not otherwise  ……………………  and if it shall happen that if either of my said daughters Dorothy and Ann or such after born daughter or daughters (if any) shall happen to die before she or they shall attain to her or their respective age or ages of one and twenty years that then and in such case I do hereby will order and appoint that the said portion or sum of fifty pounds of her that shall so die shall go to the other of them then living (if one) if more equally to be divided between them  …………………  Item I do hereby give and bequeath unto my said wife Dorothy and do will order and appoint that she shall have receive and take the rents issues and profits of all and every my said messuage lands tenements and hereditaments until my said sons Nicholas and John shall respectively attain his or their respective age or ages of one and twenty years  ………………  for and towards the maintenance of herself and my said sons and daughters Nicholas John Dorothy and Ann and of such after born child or children (if any) and for and towards payment of the interest money or debt due and to be due upon a mortgage by me made of the said messuage lands tenements and hereditaments subject nevertheless to the said annuity or rent charge before by me given and devised out of and charged upon the same provided that she my said wife Dorothy shall so long live and continue my widow but if she die or marry again Then and from thenceforth in either of those cases I do hereby give and bequeath unto my said friend Edward Sedgwick and John Miller of Addington in the said County of Kent Yeoman and do will order and appoint that they shall have receive and take the rents issues and profits of all and every my said messuage lands tenements and hereditaments until my said sons Nicholas and John and such after born son or sons (if any) shall respectively attain his or their respective age or ages of one and twenty years  ……………..  in Trust for and towards maintenance of my said sons and daughters Nicholas John Dorothy and Ann and of such after born child or children  (if any) and for and towards payment of the interest money or debt due or to be due upon the mortgage by me made of the said messuage lands tenements and hereditaments    …………… And I do hereby give and devise unto her from thenceforth one annuity or yearly rent charge of ten pounds of lawful money of Great Britain to be issuing going forth and payable and paid out of all and every my said messuage or tenements lands and hereditaments unto her my said wife Dorothy yearly and every year for and during the term of her natural life (if she continue my widow but not otherwise) by quarterly payments tax free (viz) at Michaelmas Christmas Lady Day and Midsummer the first payment thereof to begin and be made at the first of the said days of payment which shall next happen after my decease provided further also and if it shall happen that my said sons Nicholas and John and such after born son or sons (if any) shall all happen to die before they shall attain their respective age or ages of one and twenty years That then and in such case I do hereby give and devise unto her my said wife Dorothy one other annuity or yearly rent charge of ten pounds of lawful money of Great Britain by quarterly payments tax free  …………..  Item I give and bequeath unto my said wife Dorothy all my goods household stuff plate and linen whatsoever to be by her given and disposed of to and amongst my said children of her body as she in her discretion shall think most fitting (except what shall be convenient for her own use which I desire she may have to her own use during her natural life) Item I give and bequeath unto my said son Thomas Alchin and my son Henry Alchin and my said daughter Elizabeth Tong one guinea apiece to buy them rings Item I give and bequeath unto my said wife Dorothy and unto the said Edward Sedgwick and John Miller their Executors Administrators and Assigns all the residue and remainder of the term which shall be to come and unexpired after my decease of and in my hop grounds in the parish of Leybourne which I have now in lease upon Trust and Confidence and to the intent and purpose that they or the survivors or survivor of them his or her Executors Administrators or Assigns shall and may pay and apply the proceed and profit of or from the said hop grounds arising for and towards payment and discharge of the said money or debt which is or then shall be owing (after all necessary charges or expenses are deducted) upon the said mortgage by me made of my said messuage lands tenements and hereditaments in West Malling and East Malling aforesaid and the overplus of such proceeds and profit (if any) after the said money or debt owing on mortgage as aforesaid shall be paid off and discharged to be paid and applied for and towards the better support and maintenance of my said wife and her said children and at the end of the said term all and every the stock of hop poles of or upon the said hop grounds to be sold and applied for and towards the purposes aforesaid and also all the rest and residue of my chattels stock cattle and personal estate whatsoever I give and bequeath unto my said wife Dorothy and unto the said Edward Sedgwick and John Miller upon trust to be sold and the moneys thereby arising to be paid and applied for and towards payment in the first place of all and every my debts which I shall owe at the time of my decease (other than and except the said debt due on mortgage as aforesaid) and my funeral charges and the overplus thereof (if any) after my said other debts and funeral charges are paid and discharged to be paid and applied for and towards payment of the said debt due and owing upon the said mortgage as aforesaid Item I do hereby make ordain and appoint my said wife Dorothy the said Edward Sedgwick and John Miller Executrix and Executors of this my last Will and Testament and desire them to see the same performed and fulfilled and I do hereby give and bequeath unto them the said Edward Sedgwick and John  Miller twenty shillings apiece to buy them rings to wear in remembrance of me and I do appoint that they and every of them shall and may deduct unto themselves and be indemnified by and out of the goods and premises aforesaid all costs charges and expenses which they or any of them shall lay out sustain or be put unto for or by reason ……….. or on account of the Trusts or Executorship before mentioned or otherwise concerning the premises provided always and further my mind and will is that if my said wife Dorothy shall hereafter marry again that then and from thenceforth the Trust power and Executorship before herein given to or vested in her shall cease and determine as to her and that then and in such case she shall be no longer a Trustee or Executrix to or for any the purposes aforesaid nor shall take or receive any benefit or advantage by from or by virtue of the said Trusts or Executorship or any of them And I do hereby revoke all former wills by me heretofore made and I do declare this present writing contained in these six sheets of paper to be my last Will and Testament in witness whereof I have hereunto and to each sheet thereof set my hand and seal the day and year in the first sheet first mentioned Thos Alchin Signed sealed published and declared by the said Thomas Alchin the Testator to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who subscribed our names as witnesses hereunto in the presence of him the said Thomas Alchin the Testator Lydia Chapman Sarah Taylor Will Waldish(?)

Probate was granted to Dorothy Alchin Edward Sedgwick and Thomas Miller at London by the Prerogative Court of Canterbury on 13th December 1717 (in Latin)"

An inventory of Thomas' estate was made after his death:

"A true and perfect Inventory of all and singular the goods chattels and credits of Thomas Alchin the Elder late of West Malling in the County of Kent Yeoman Deceased which since his death have come to the hands possession or knowledge of Dorothy Alchin the Widow and Relict of the said deceased. Edward Sedgewick and John Miller Executors named in the last Will and Testament of the said deceased the same being taken valued and appraised on the sixteenth day of September in the year of our Lord 1717 by John Sedgewick and John Elves as follows, viz

Imprimis his wearing apparel and ready money in the house (20 pounds)

In the Kitchen (5 pounds) - Item one pair andirons one pair of …… fire pan and tongs one pair of bellows two gridirons two gridirons two treroots two spits two pair of pot hangers one flesh (?) fork one jack with the chain line and weights two box irons and iron dripping pan and pair of tobacco tongs two pairs of brass candlesticks two pairs of brass snuffers four iron candlesticks one brass chafing dish two brass skewers (?) one brass extinguisher sixteen patty (?) pans one tin sconce one toasting iron two copper drinking pots one brass warming pan three dozen of pewter plates nine pewter dishes and a cheese plate three pewter porringers one pewter salt one wooden salt eight wooden spoons one small chest of drawers one dresser one long table two oval tables one long form two joint stools three old chairs one salt box one candle box one iron cleaver one tin flour box and pepper box and two old fowling pieces.

In the Great Parlour (4 pounds 10 shillings) - Item one dozen of old turkey work chairs two oval tables one looking glass four old pictures two pairs of window curtains.

In the Little Parlour (3 pounds 12 shillings) - Item six cane chairs one other two arm'd chair one looking glass one oval table two wooden stands four small pictures one pair of window curtains

In the Milk House (2 pounds 12 shillings) - Item one bunting hutch one wash tub one cheese press one churn two milk pails three milk trays one butter platter one wooden bottle one pair of scales two small wooden bowls two flooting (?) dishes one little table one iron mortar and pestle one hog form one hand bowl and a milk strainer.

In the Brewhouse (5 pounds) - Item two brass furnaces one mash tub ten other small tubs two bucking tubs one well bucket chain rope etc one frying pan one iron chafing dish one iron oven lid two iron pots one copper pot two base metal (?) pots one old iron kettle four brass skillets five pewter dishes and three plates two pewter saucers one tin cover one pewter flagon one tin coffee pot three earthen (?) bottles two pails four wooden bowls seven wooden dishes one wooden skimmer and ladle two dozen of threnchers and threncher rack (?) one chopping knife and a pair of skewers (?).

In the Millhouse (4 pounds 14 shillings and 6 pence) - Item one malt quern one bushell measure one gallon measure one old pair of scales with the beam and weights two old paddles one old pillion one old pannier two mattocks one spade and one dung spade.

In the Outward Cellar (18 shillings) - Item five drink vessels one wooden funnel one tin funnel one wooden bottle three stalders and three dozen of glass bottles.

In the Inner Cellar (1 pound 12 shillings and 6 pence) - Item seven drink vessels one tun tub two keelers four powdering tubs and two stalders.

Item a clock and glass cupboard on the staircase (1 pound 10 shillings)

In the Best Chamber (12 pounds 18 shillings) - Item one feather bed and bolster curtains vallence and cord etc one quilt one rug two blankets two pillows a chest of drawers and a little cabinet one looking glass five cane chairs one other chair a two arm'd cane chair a little table two pairs of andirons iron founder fire pan and tongs one pair of bellows one brush two pair of window curtains one silver tankard three silver sq….. (?) and some small pictures.

In the Chamber over the Little Parlour (3 pounds 17 shillings and 3 pence) - Item one feather bed and bolster bedstead (?) curtains vallence mat and cord etc one quilt one rug two blankets two pillows two chest of drawers two old chairs and two stools.

In the Chamber over the Kitchen (15 pounds 3 shillings) - Item two feather beds and bolster two old bedsteads one pair of old curtains one pillow one quilt one rug five blankets four pair of flaxon sheets seven pair of ewinpon (??) sheets nine pairs of tow sheets seven pair of flaxon pillow coats one damask table cloth a dozen of damask napkins one huckaback table cloth and one dozen of napkins fourteen coarse napkins fourteen coarse towels two fine towels eight coarse table cloths two bucking cloths one long chest and two trunks.

In the Apple Chamber (3 pounds 4 shillings) - Item one quarter of oats one sack of tares one bushell of clover seed three bushells of turnip seed one bushell measure one ….. sieve one old scuppet (?) one old painwell (?) one old cradle two packs and a parcel of apples.

In the Garrett (1 pound 13 shillings) - Item two flock beds and bolsters mat cord two rugs four blankets one old ….. one old cupboard one stand one pair of andirons one wicker chair one two arm'd chair old …… chairs and one old stool.

In the Oasthouse (14 pounds 15 shillings) - Item about two bags of hops unbagged one old copper skry (?) one scuppet (?) fourteen sacks two bushell baskets one fann (?) one sieve about a load of charcoal three oast hands (?) on the oasts two hoppoaks (?) a bag of hops and a pocket.

In the Barn (88 pounds 18 shillings) - Item barley unthreshed that grew on eight acres of ground the peas unthreshed that grew on ten acres of ground the wheat unthreshed that grew on seven acres of ground the oats unthreshed that grew on four acres of ground the rye unthreshed that grew on five acres of ground about four loads of clover and some hay seven quarters of old rye in sacks three quarters and half of peas in sacks eighteen corn sacks one pitchfork and one rake.

In the Stables (27 pounds) - Item seven old horses six old wagon harness six old plough harness a cutting box chaff sieve and pitchfork.

Item twenty three bags of hops and one pocket (167 pounds)

In the Yards (14 pounds 7 shillings) - Item two old wagons two ploughs four small old harrows one large harrow six hopbins three dung carts one timber jack one wooden bowl three old cow cribs and about 150 scarves (??).

Item twelve sheep eight hogs and nine shoats and four cows (30 pounds)

Item the apples on three acres of ground (7 pounds)

Item the stock of hop poles on five acres and half of ground at house (62 pounds 10 shillings)

Item the stock of hop poles on four acres of ground in the moors (48 pounds)

Items debts …….. and desperate (10 pounds)

Item things unseen and forgotten (5 shillings)

Item arrears of rent due to the deceased at the time of his death about (12 pounds)

Total MLXVII. XIX . VI (567 pounds 19 shillings and 6 pence)

Item an account depending (?) between the said deceased and his son Thomas Alchin for wood bought between them but the balance of the said account the sum being not yet adjusted these ………. cannot at present be set forth.

Dorothy Allchin, Edward Sedgwick, John Miller 14th November 1717"

His wife Dorothy was buried at West Malling on 10th May 1747. She also left a will (PRO reference PROB 11/762) for which probate was granted on 7th June 1748.

"In the name of God Amen I Dorothy Alchin Widow living at Town Malling in Kent being sound in mind and memory but not in perfect health make this as my last Will and Testament and set aside any that I have made before this My soul I resign to Almighty God hoping with my Redeemer to rise again and my body I would have buried very privately Item I give to my son Nicholas Alchin all the arrears that is behind of my money that he was to pay me Item I give to my daughter Dorothy Fisher all of the furniture of the house that I have ….. Mr Player the paying the rent that will be due when I die Shall have power to take it all away so soon as I am buried excepting what I shall hereafter give away Item I give unto my grand daughter Ann Fisher all my wearing apparel linen and woollen excepting some things that I shall give away Item I give to my daughter Ann Alchin all that belongs to me out of the house that grand father Richards now in the occupation Mr …………. If it should be sold before I die all the money that is made of it shall be for her and her heirs for ever and my will is that my son Nicholas and my daughter Ann Alchin they shall pay equally alike for the charge or debt that my …… or burying shall come to My son shall pay his part out of the arrears that is behind of my annuity and my daughter her part out of the money of my house Item I give to my cousin Parry the cabinet with my Common Prayer book that I bought last and to Mr Tyler I give the …… and to Mr Player the paper in the dining room and the fire stone hearth Item I give to Cousin Parry two guineas to buy her a ring and my will is that my daughter Ann Alchin shall pay her the 2 guineas when …………. It and I leave my daughter Ann Alchin sole Executrix to this my last Will and Testament signed sealed and delivered by me Dorothy Alchin Witness our hands the 4th day of February 1746/47. John Sisley Sr John Sisley Jr Francis Sisley

This will was proved at London the seventh day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and forty eight before the Right Worshipful John Bettesworth Doctor of Laws Master Keeper or Commissary of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury lawfully constituted by the oath of Ann Alchin now the wife of Thomas Graham the sole Executrix named in the said Will to whom administration was granted of all and singular the goods chattels and credits of the deceased being first sworn by commission duly to administer."

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