Summary:

Will of William Wreford, of Morchard Bishop, Yeoman,
dated August 2, 1763

Provided by John Moore

This is extracted from "Records and Pedigree of the Wreford Family of Devonshire", compiled by George Wreford of Gray's Inn, Barrister-at-Law, 2nd ed. Printed for circulation amongst Family Subscribers (1909) 90pp + 44 charts.

By his will testator gives as follows:
To his wife Thomasine, the use for her life of such of his household Furniture as she shall think necessary, also one cow and one horse to be chosen by her, also £4 yearly for life.
To his son John, one shilling.
To his son Matthew at 21, part of an estate called "Middlecott," in Morchard Bishop, in the possession of Henry Labbett, he paying thereout £20 to his executors for the use of his younger children, also to the said Matthew 40/- a year till he is 21.
Refers to his marriage settlement dated in 1742 whereby his estate called Middlecott "where I now dwell" is subject to the appointment of a sum of £120, he directs his son John to pay that sum to his executors for the use of his children Robert, Simon, Elizabeth, Thomasine, and Frances, to be divided amongst them.
If his son John dies before 21 leaving no issue, then the property given to son Matthew is to go to his son Robert, and if both John and Matthew die before 21 without issue then the aforesaid estate called Middlecott to go to his son Simon.
If sons John, Matthew, and Robert die before 21 without issue, then the aforesaid estate to go to all and every other son or sons of testator.
To his executors Richard Kelland, Simon Pope and William Steer the rents and profits of his estate called "Middlecott," for maintenance of his two sons Robert and Simon and three daughters, Elizabeth, Thomasine and Frances.
To the said two sons and three daughters, £50 each at 21.
Residue to executors for use and benefit of said two sons and three daughters.
Proved September 19, 1763.

[NOTE.- It appears that the Middlecott Estate, where testator dwelt, passed under the settlement of 1742 to the eldest son, John Wreford, and is therefore not dealt with in this will except as to the appointment of the £120.]