The will of William Howcott of Coventry, made 1626

Background 

No record of the burial of William Howcott has been located. The will is “nuncupative”, meaning that it was not written down when he was alive but recorded after his death as he dictated it to witnesses.

Text

Memoranda. That William Howcott of the Citty of Coventrey whittawer about the third of July in the yeare of our Lord 1626 beinge weake and sicke in body but of understandinge perfect did dispose and bequeath his estate in these wordes or to the like in effecte vizt My mynde and meaninge is that because Edward Craddocke hath beene a continuall helper unto me in all my necessities, and doth stand ingaged for me in dyvers Summes of money, I doe gyve unto the said Edward Craddocke all my goodes debts Catells, and Chattells, to satisfie and pay such debts as I owe, and if there be any remayninge after my debts payd, my mynde is that the be devyded betwixt Ellen my wife, and William my sonne And of this my last will I make the said Edward Craddock my Executor: and this he spake in the presence of

Abraham Lynes [his mark]

Elizabeth Fowlar

Margery Lynes

Further details

Edward Craddocke was sworn as executor by Thomas Tayley, surrogate.

Transcribed by

Francis Howcutt from a photocopy of the original.

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