Baptist being the nine and twentith day of August In this Town also is kept a Court of Record upon every Tuesday three weekes sonactions wherein the debt or damages exceed not twenty markes the jurisdiction of which Court extendeth it self over the Towne and all the Parish except the Borough of Henwood alias Hewet over which the Liberty of Wye claymeth And the Borough of Rudlow over which the Liberty of the late Deanâ— of Canterbury claymeth The aforesaid Towne and Liberty of Ashford have a Constable of their own but the rest of the Parish is in the hundred of Chart and Longbridge This Parish was in the Deanry of Charing and Diocess of Canterbury The Church standeth in the Town was called Saint Maries and was a Collegiate Church founded by Sir Robert Fogg a Knight of this County who also founded a Colledge there consisting of a Prebâ—nd and Priests and in this Church are interred severall Knights and others of that antient Family In the same also was interred the Countesse of Atholl about 282. yeares since The monument whereof is or latâ—ly was there remaining The Lord of the Mannor of Ashford ought antiently to have repaired the house in the corner of Dâ—vor Castle towards the long wall next the Posterne In the night of the first of May 1580. here hapâ—ned a great Earth quake which much affâ—ighted many of the inhabitants and caused them to arise out of thiâ— beds AYLESFORD EIlesford Ailesford Ailsford 〈◊〉 Episford Anglesford Aeglestâ—orpe Eglesford And in the British Languaâ—◠〈…〉 Lieth towards the middle of the County by the River Medway about three miles towards the North West distant from Maidstone in the Bailiwick of Hoo Lath of Aylesford West Division of the County and South Division of Justices in that Lath. That part of this Parish which lieth at the North-side of the said River is in antient Demesne and hath a Constable of it self But the South side of the Parish at the other side of the River viz. the Mannour of Preston and Milhale is in the hundred of Larkfield the Church standeth in antient Demesne was called Saint Peter and given by King Henry 1. to the Church of Rochester This Parish was in the Deanry and Diocess of Rochester the liberty of the late Bishop of Rochester claymeth in the same the liberty of Maidstone claymeth over Milhale aforesaid and a Fare is kept yearly in this Parish upon Saint Peters day being the 29th day of Iune The Mannor of Aylesford is by some said to have been given by King Henry 3. to Richard Lord Gray of Codnor but I finde that it was allened from the Crowne before the time of that King for that in the time of King Iohn Osbert Gipford was owner thereof however it was once parcell of the Demesnes of the Crowne Is to this day called antient Demesne and that Lord Gray in the year 1240. founded there a house of White Friers Carmelites to the honour of Saint Mary Which afterwards came to be the habitation of Sir William Sidley who about the year 1607 partly as executor to his brother Iohn and partly at his own charge erected an Hospitall in this Parish for six poor people each to have 10l per. annum the building whereof and the lands thereunto is said to have cost 1800l he likewise bestowed much charge upon the Bridge there In this Parish Vortimer King of Britain about the year 454. fought the Saxons and in that battail Catigern brother of the said Vortimer and Horsa brother of Hengist the Saxon Commander in single fight sleweaâ—h other in memory of which Catigern a Monument of stones was there erected by the Britains and is now vulgarly called Kits Cothouse And in the year 892. King Elfred fought and routed the Danes at Fernham in this Parish BADLESMER LIeth towards the North-east side of the County about three miles and a half towards the South distant from Feversham in the Bailiwick and Lath of Scray East division of the County and upper division of Justices in that Lath the liberty of St. Augustine 〈◊〉 over the fame for that it is in the hundred of Feversham which belonged to that Abbey A Fare is held here yearly upon the day of St. Leonard being the sixth day of November this Parish was in the Deanry of Ospringe and Diocess of Canterbury and the Church was called St. Leonard Sir Hugh Crequer was in the time of the Conquerour Lord of Badlesmer and one of the eight chief Captains or Lievetenant Governours of Dovor Castle under Iohn Lord Fynes BAPCHILD LIeth towards the North-side of the County aebout one mile and a half towards the South-ast distant from Milton in the Bailiwick and Hundred of Milton Lath of Seray East division of the County and upper division of Justices in that Lath it was in the Deanry of Sitâ—ingborne and Diocess of Canterbury and the Church was called St. Laurence BAREFRISTON LIeth in the East-part of the County about five miles towards the South-West distant from Sandwich in the Bailiwick and Hundred of Eastry Lath of St. Augustine East division of the County and division of Justices in that Lath it was in the Deanry of Sandwieh and Diocess of Canterbury and the Church was called St. Maries East BARMING LIeth towards the middle of the County by the River Medway about two miles and a half towards the South-West distant from Maidstone in the Bailiwick of Eyhorn Hundred of Maidstone Lath of Aylesford West division of the County and East division of Justices in that Lath it was in the Deanry of Malling and Diocess of Rochester the liberty of Maidstone claimeth over the same and the Church was called St. Margaret West BARMING LIeth towards the middle of the County by the River Medway about three miles towards the South-West distant from Maidstone in the Bailiwick of Eyhorâ—e Hundred of Maidstone Lath of Aylesford West Division of the County and East Division of Justices in that Lath it was in the Deanry of Malling and Dioeess of Rochester the liberty of Maidstone claymeth over the same and some part only of the ruines of the Church is remaining but that there was such a Church and a Churchyard to the same neer the Court-lodge there is yet visible BEAKESBORNE LIeth towards the East part of the County by the River Stoure About two miles and a halfe towards the East distant from Canterbury in the Bailiwick of Bridge and Petham Lath of Saint Augustine and East Division of the County it is a member of the Towne and Port of Hasting and so was in the time of King Richard 2. and it is in the Division of the Justices of that Towne and Port the liberty whereof and of the Cinque Ports clayme over the same it was in the Deanry of Bridge and Diocess of Canterbury and the Church was called Saint Peter BECKENHAM LIeth at the West part of the County adjoyning to Surrey by the River Ravensborne about two miles towards the West distant
Regis 1607. obteyned a prohibition thereupon out of the then Kings-Bench which was tried at the Assiâ—es holden at Rochester upon Thursday in the second week in Lent that year before Justice Waimsley and Justice Croke then Judges and the verdict passed for the said Gibbon and in Easter Terme following judgement was given accordingly in the Kings-Bench The suggestion and deposiâ—ions are entred in that Court Trin 4 â— of King Iames Roll 692. Most of the lands in this Parish are within the liberty of Wye antiently belonging to the Abbey of Battle in Sussex and Odâ— Abbot of Battle the Covent there by Charter without date granted to the owners of the said lands by the name of his men of Hawkeherâ— their heirs the Viâ—â—e of Hawkeherst paying yearly ten Pounds twenty Hennes and two hundred and fifty Eggs with divers restrictions But afterwards 5 â— Decemb 14. Edw. 1. Henry Abbot of Battle and the Covent there gâ—aâ—ted to them and their heirs by the name of their tenants of Hawkeherst all the tenements there which they held of his fee viz. in the Denns of Hawkeherst Amboldesseâ—s Delmâ—â—den Sessele Beâ—â—tylts Fissendenne Markdenne Freehele Wynesle Wynâ—hinden Chittenden and Witheringhope in Houses Gardens Lands and Woods Plaines Meadowes and Pâ—stures Waters and Mills with the appurtenances to hold freely and in peace paying yearly ten Pounds twenty five Hens and two hundred and fifty Eggs And reserved suite to his Court of Wye from three weeks to three weeks by two men onely and for that the Abbot took into his hands Anglingle which formerly was parcell of this tenaâ—cy he by composition abated the tenants forty shillings per annum of the ten pounds and for the Hennes and Eggs so reserved they compounded to pay him yearly eight shillings and for the said suit of Court six shillings eight pence So the moneys by them paid yearly ever since to to the Abbey and the since owners of Wye is eight pounds fourteen shillings eight pence And the Tenants usually kept here a three weeks Court called Slipmill otherwise Moorhouse Court for determination of matters under forty shillings and accordingly such a Court was in my memory there kept though now discontinued They also had power by the grant last before mentioned to have a Reve of their own and they had at least once in every year a Court which was also called by the name aforesaid where they did apportion the rent aforesaid payable to the Abbey and chuse their Reve which Court is still there kept usually once in the year about Easter but for sixty years last past was stiled the Court Baron of the Lord and there they presented the alterations of tenancies and elected two Bedels to gather the rent 3 â— Iunij 33 â— Hen. 8 â— that King granted the Royalty and Rents at Hawkâ—herst belonging to Wye to Sir Iohn Baker and 20 â— Martij 1 â— Elez. she granted Wye to Henry Lord Hunsdon Afterwards controversy arose between the tenants at Hawkeherst and Sir Richad Baker heire of the said Sir Iohn touching the validity of their former grants and 31 â— Ian. 10 â— Eliz. the tenants obteyned a decree against the said Sir Riâ—hard for quiet enjoying their tenements aforesaid as formerly and 12 â— Febr. following the said Sir Richard released his claim to them and after suites between the heire of the said Sir Iohn and the heire of the said Lord Hunsdon touching the Royalties and rent aforesaid the said heire of Baker 10 o. Novemb. 17 o. Iacobi Regis granted his right in the same to the said heire of the said Lord Hunsdon so that now the Lord of Wye is owner of the said Royalties and rent there This parish hath severall lands belonging thereunto to be imployed to pious uses viz. Henry Parson and William his sonne 13 o. Iunij 22 o. Edw. 4. conveyed to their use for ever a messuage and acre of land which messuage was of late times called the Church house and adjoyneth to the Church-yard the rent thereof and of the land thereunto is imployed towards reparation of the Church and upon part of the land was erected an Almeshouse which is imployed to the use of the poore of this Parish and in the close of the said messuage is another house usually called the Sexton's house the same having been for about sixty years past used for the habitation of the Sexton of this Parish and these messuages and lands are enjoyed accordingly Likewise Thomas Iddenden 3. Aprill 1556. willed severall messuages and lands lying at and neer a place in this Parish called High-street to be for ever imployed for Pious uses in that Parish and the same being deteyned from the Parish severall years at length upon an inquisition taken before Commissioners for charitable uses 12. Decemb. 14. King Iames the aforesaid Will and charitable uses were found and the said messuages and lands by those Commissioners 29. Aprill following decreed to be enjoyed and imployed accordingly the trustees and manner of imployment thereby settled and the same are enjoyed accordingly Also Thomas Gibbon 3 o. Decemb. 15 o. Eliz. granted to trustees for ever an annuity of forty three shillings four pence per annum out of his messuage and three peices of land upon Amboldesherst in that Parish containing seven aacres which annuity was purchased from him by the Parishoners to be imployed towards the maintenaâ—ce of the said Church and the same is enjoyed and imployed accordingly A Market by the grant of King Edw. 1. 5. of his Raigne to the Abbey of Battle was antiently kept in this Parish upon every Tuesday upon the greene at the Moore against the mansion house now of William Boys Esquire but for many years past the same hath been discontinued yet within the memory of men lately living a Market crosse stood there and very lately there also stood a little house called St. Margarets cross since quite demolished wherein when the Market was in being the corne unsold was usually put and the memory of that Market is partly reteyned by the name of a place neer thereunto yet called the Market place and old shops there yet standing A â—air is kept yearly in this Parish neer the Church upon the day of St Laurence being the tenth day of August and was granted by the aforesaid King Edw. 1. 3. Marâ—ij 5. of his raigne to the Abbey of Battle to hold for three dayes viz. in the Vigill day and morrow of St. Laurence aforesaid but the same now usually beginneth upon the aforesaid day of St. Laurence and lasteth one day following There was also in this parish another fair kept yearly upon St. Valentines day being the 14th day of February in the field at the next gate beyond Moore house at a place where lately stood a pound but for many years past this fair hath been discontinued In this Parish also antiently stood five crosses or watch-houses one upon Badcocks green called Badcocks Crosse long since fallen down another in
the charge of Soverianus or Severus Affri who as a Consul governed Britain for the Romans And King Arthur above 1100. years since at this Richborough fought Mordred who usurped his Kingdome in his absence beyond the sea SEALE LIeth towards the middle of the West part of the County about two miles towards the North distant from Sevenoke in the Bailiwick of Sutton Bromley Hundred of Codsheath Lath of Sutton at Hone West division of the County and lower division of Justices in that Lath. The liberty of Sevenoke claymeth there and the liberty of the Dutchy of Lâ—ncaster claimeth over the Mannour of Seale It was in the Deanry of Malling and Diocess of Rochester and the Church was called St. Peter which was sometimes a Chappel to Kemsing And in the same is or lately was a memorial of the interment of Thomas Breuton Bishop of Rochester and Confessor to King Rich. 2. And of Bryene a Knight both above 260. years since SEASALTER SEsaltre lieth at the North side of the County adjoyning to the Sea about four miles towards the northeast distant frâ—m Feversham in the Bailiwick of Bridge and Peâ—ham Lath of St. Augustine East Division of the County and division of Justices in that Lath. It is in no Hundred but hath a Constable of it self The liberty of the late Dean of Canterbury claimeth over the Mannour of Seasalter being given to the same by King Hen. 8. 33. of his raign It was in the Deanry of West Beer and Diocess of Canterbury and the Church was called St. Alphage which Church was appropriated to Christchurch Canterbury by Pope Gregory in the year 1234. Here are kept yearly four fairs one upon our Lady day being the five and twentieth day of March another upon Midsummer day being the foure and twentieth day of Iune another upon Michaelmus day being the nine and twentieth day of September and the other upon Christmas day being the five and twentieth day of December SELLINDGE LIeth towards the southeast side of the County by the river Stoure about three miles and a half towards the Northwest distant from Hith In the Lath of Shipway East division of the County and division of Justices in that Lath. Part thereof is in the Bailiwick and Hundred of Stowting and the residue is in the Bailiwick of Shipway and Hundred of Strete It was all in the Deanry of Limpne and Diocess of Canterbury The Church standeth in the Hundred of Strete and was called St. Maries SELLING LIeth towards the North part of the County about two miles and a half towards the southeast distant from Feversham in the Bailiwick and Lath of Scray East division of the County and upper division of Justices in that Lath. Part thereof is in the Hundred of Feversham and the liberty of St. Augustine claimeth over the same because that Hundred belonged to that Abbey That liberty also claimeth over the Mannour of Selling and the residue of this Parish is in the Hundred of Boughton under the Blean It was all in the Deanry of Ospringe and Diocess of Canterbury The Church standeth in the Hundred of Boughton under the Blean and was called St. Maries SEVENOKE SEnnok lieth towards the middle of the West part of the County about four miles and a half towards the Northeast distant from Westram in the Bailiwiâ—k of Sutton Bromley Hundred of Codsheath Lath of Sutton at Hone West division of the County and lower division of Justices in that Lath. The liberty of Sevenoke claimeth over the same and the liberty of the Dutchy of Lancaster claimeth at Bradbourn in this Parish It was in the Deanry of Shoreham a peculiar to the late Archbishop of Canterbury but in the Diocess of Rochester and the Church was called St. Nicholas in which are or lately were memorials of the interment of Law above 250 years since of Haymund above 180. years since of Bourchier above 160. yeaâ—s since of Potkins above 150. years since of Brooke Totleherst and Gregby above 140. years since And of Yardley above 130. years sinâ—e In this Church also is a Chappel which was dedicated to the Virgin Mary A Market is kept in this Town upon every Saturday And two Faires yearly viz. one upon St. Peters day being the nine and twentieth day of Iune and the other upon the day of St. Nicholas being the sixth day of December Towards the end of the raign of King Edw. 3. A Childe being found in this Parish and the Parents not known It was named William Sevenoke Afterwards in the year 1418. he becoming Lord Mayor of London founded the Hospitall and Free-schoole in this Town To which School Iohn Potkins in the time of King Hen. 8. was a liberal Benefactor And the same and the revenue thereof being about the beginning of the raign of Queen Elizabeth settled and encreased it became to be called as now it is The Free-Schoole of Queen Elizabeth Thomas Bâ—urchier Archbishop of Canterbury about 200. years since bought Knoll in this Parish of the Lord Say and Seal and there built a faire House which Iohn Morton his â—ext successor in that Sea much inlarged As also did William Warham another successor in that Sea about twenty years afterwards and it was afterwards more enlarged and beautified by the Lord Treasurer Dorset In this Parish also about the year 1450. Iack Cade after long fight slew Sir Humphrey Stafford William Stafâ—ord Esquire and other Gentlemen sent by King Henry the sixth to suppresse his Rebellion SEVINGTON LIeth towards the Southeast side of the County by the river Stoure about two miles towards the southeast 〈◊〉 from Asâ—ford in the Bailiwick and Hundred of the Chart Longbridge Lath of Scray East division of the County and division of Justices in the Lath of Shipway The liberty of Wye claimeth over the same by the name of the Yoke of Dâ—â—eland It was in the Deanry of Limpâ—e and Diocess of Canterbury and the Church was called St. Maries in which are or lately were severall memorials of the interment of the Family of Barry of the Mote in this Parish some of them Knights Most whereof are about 250. years since and of Finch above 210. years since SHADOXHERST LIeth towards the southeast side of the County about three miles and a half towards the South distant from Asbford in the lower division of Justices in the Lath of Scray so much thereof as is in the Borough of old Herlackenden is in the Bailiwick of the Seven Hundreds Hundred of Blackborn Lath of Scray and West division of the County Other part thereof is in the Bailiwick and Hundred of Chart and Longbridge Lath of Scray and East division of the County And the residue thereof is in the Bailiwick and Lath of Shipway Hundred of Ham and East division of the County It was all in the Deanry of Limpne and Diocess of Canterbury The Church standeth in the Hundred of Blackborne and was called St. Peter and St. Paul SHEBBERTSWOLD SYbertsweld Sibbertswood Lieth towards
of the same and the said Constable afterwards made the work on the hanger of the hill there and also made eight chief Captains or Lieutenant Governours of this Castle whose names do follow and to them such Knights fees were assigned and for the same they warded in this Castle yearly as followeth viz. Sir William of Albrance otherwise Albrank had one and twenty Knights fees and warded twenty eight weeks Sir William of Arsick had eighteen Knights fees and warded twenty four weeks Sir Fulbert of Dovor had fifteen Knights fees and warded twenty weeks Sir Iefferey Peverell had fourteen Knights fees and warded twenty weeks Sir William Mamouth had twenty foure Knights fees and warded thirty two weeks Sir Robert Porth had twelve Knights fees and warded twenty four weeks Sir Hugh Crevequer had five Knights fees and warded twenty foure weeks And Sir Adam Fitzwilllams had six Knights fees and warded twenty four weeks And by this means there were alwayes 1000. men in the same for the Guard thereof which Guard was so kept for fear of the Danes and by reason of the distrust which that King had of the men of this County and these Captains built and repaired their severall Towers in this Castle King Iohn afterwards recompenced the heire of Fynes for the same and took it into his hands and afterwards in the time of King Hen. 3. this personall service of Castle-guard was turned into a contributory payment of money towards guarding the Castle and sworne Warders were appointed for that service and in those dayes there belonged to the same many Souldiers both Horse and foot and therefore the Arches Vaults and Barbicans were made there for them to issue out at This Castle afterwards fell again to decay but in the times of King Hen. 4. King Edw. 4. and Queen Elizabeth much cost was bestowed in repair thereof and more especially in the time of King Edw. 4. In the same is a Church founded by King Lucius otherwise Lucius Coilus above 1400 years since in which Sir Robert Asheton who was a person of great honour Constable of this Castle and gave the best Bell of that Church to the same was above 270. years since interred as was also Henry Earle of Northampton Lord Warden of the Cinque Poâ—ts above forty years since In this Castle were also antiently two Chappels a Colledge of Chanons severall streets of houses and Markets kept The Colledge aforesaid is said to have been begun in the time of the said King Lucius but more certain it is that Eadbald King of Kent erected the same and it was afterwards removed from thence by King Withred into the Towne There were antiently in this Castle a Commissary who held his Court there and these other Officers viz. a Lieutenant Marshall learned Steward Clerke of the Excheâ—quer Gentleman Porter four Yeomen Porters a Serjant at armes Boder Serjant of the Admiralty being antiently the Marshal's Deputy Serjants to arrest a Serjant of the Artillery a Serjant to serve process from the Castle-gate Court an Armorer Smith Plummer Carpenter two Warrenners and a Priest whose house there was called Cocklecoe all which had particular salaries and in the same also was an Exchecquer Office In this Castle likewise antiently was to be seen a Tower called Caesar's Tower afterwards the Kings lodgings excellent for workmanship and very high a spaâ—ious Hall called King Arthur's Hall with a faire gallery or entry great Pipes and Caâ—kes bound with iron hoopes wherein was liquor supposed to be wine which by long lying became as thick as Treackle and would cleave like Bird-lime Salt congealed together as hard as stone Cross-Bowes long Bowes and Arrowes to the same to which was fastened Brass in stead of feathers and the same were of such bigness aâ— not fit to be used by any men of this or late ages severall deep wells sounding places and vaults under ground and a curiously engraven brass peece of Ordnance â—eer twenty four foot long called the Basilisco reported to be given to King Hen. 8. by the Emperour This Castle esteemed the most important Castle of England and key of the same was valiantly defended by Hubert de Burgh Constable thereof against Lewes sonne of Phillip King of France who besieged the same 22 â— Iulij 1216. and continued the siege 〈…〉 Octob. following about which 〈◊〉 the same was raised and 6. Aprill 1580. by reason of an 〈…〉 happening a peece of the 〈…〉 Castle standeth and a peece of the wall of the 〈…〉 the Sea Now as touching the Townâ— which shortly after the coming of King William the Conquerour was much defaced by fire and afterwards in the year 1295. was again spoyled and part thereof burned by the French I find that in the time of King Edward the Confessor the Townesmen were called Burgesses and it is conceived that they were antiently incorporated by the name of Mayor and Commonalty out of which Commonalty the Mayor was chosen and then the Mayor out of the Commonalty chose Assistants for his year who were sworne for that purpose and that from thence the word Iurat now common to the Magistrates in the Cinque Ports was derived and in the Raigne of King Edward the first this Corporation was stiled Mayor and Commonalty The antient and yet time of election of the Mayor was and is yearly in the afternoon of the ninth day of September being the next day after the day of the Nativity of St. Mary antiently in St. Peter's Church but that Church decaying it was afterwards and still is in St. Maries Church The Towne at the first beginning of the same to flourish began to be much builded on the South-west-side thereof whereas before the stopping of the haven by King Arviâ—agus as is before set forth the Towne was under the Castle the Market at a place called Vpmarket and the housâ—s were where the closes of a house called the Horse shoo the Garnet-close Pigeon-house and gardens late weâ—e 〈◊〉 Towne was walle I and gated as folâ—oweth viz. fro◠〈◊〉 place called Maunsfield's corner to Peer gate from the 〈◊〉 to Vpâ—all from thence to Cow-gate from thence 〈…〉 and from thence along St. Maries Church-yard to the River The gâ—tes were in number ten the names whereof were 1. Eâ—t-Brook gate which stood neer Maunsfield's corner undeâ— the Eâ—st Cliff 2. St. Helâ—â— gate next to the former towards the South-west 〈◊〉 Copthall otherwise Moorehall and St. Hâ—llenâ— Cross. 3. The Postern otherwise Fisher's gate next to the last neer the Bridge made by Mr. Garret in his Majoralty 4. Butchery gate which opened towards the South and by which in antient time the fiâ—th was carried to the Sea 5. Snar gate which was towards the South west where sometimes was Pennile's bench and is still so called but is now made like a Platforme paved with stone where Merchants usually resort each day between eleven one and over the entry into the same the Custome house is built 6. Severus gate South
the east end of the County about four miles and a half towards the North east distant from Eleham in the Bailiwick of Stowting Hundred of Beusborough Lath of St. Augustine East division of the County and division of Justices in that Lath. The liberties of St. Augustine and late Archbishop of Canterbury clayme there It was in the Deanry of Sandwich and Diocess of Canterbury and the Church was called St. Andrew in which Church are or lately were antient memorials of the interment of the family of Philipots of Vpton Court in this Parish SHELDWICH SCheldwihe Shelwich Lieth towards the North side of the Counâ—y about three miles towards the South distant from Feversham in the Bailiwick and Lath of Scray East division of the County and upper division of Justices in that Lath. The liberty of St. Augustine claymeth over the same for that it is in the Hundred of Feversham which belonged to that Abbey It was in the Deanry of Ospringe and Diocess of Canterbury and the Church was called St. Augustine James in which are or lately were memorials of the interment of At Leese a Knight above 260. years since of Cely above 230. years since and of Lisle and Deyre very antient SHIPBORNE LIeth towards the middle of the West side of the County about three miles and a half towards the South-West distant from Wâ—otham in the Bailiwick of Hoo Hundred of Wrotham Lath of Aylesford West division of the Covnty and South division of Justices in that Lath. The liberty of Wrotham claimeth over the same It was in the Deanry of Malling and Diocess of Rochester and the Church was called St. Giles A Fair is kept here yearly upon the day of Giles Abbot being the first day of September SHOLDON LIeth the East side of the County adjoyning to the sea about three miles towards the South-east distant from Sandwich in the Bailiwick of Eastry Hundred of Cornilo Lath of St. Augustine East division of the County and division of Justices in that Lath. The liberties of St. Augustine and late Archbishop of Canterbury claime there It was in the Deanry of Sandwich and Diocess of Canterbury and the Church was called St. Nicholas SHORAM SHorham lieth towards the middle of the West side of the County by the river Darent about foure miles towards the Northwest distant from Sevenoke in the Bailiwick of Sutton Bromley Hundred of Codsheath Lath of Sutton at Hone West division of the County and lower division of justices in that Lath. The liberty of the late Archbishop of Canterbury claimeth there It was in the Deanry of Shoram a peculiar to the late Archbishop of Canterbury but in the Diocess of Rochester Thomas Buckland founded a Chappel in this Church and was interred in the same SHORNE LIeth towards the North side of the County about three miles and a half towards the southeast distant from Gravesend in the Bailiwick of Hoo Hundred of Shamel Lath of Aylesford West division of the County and North division of Justices in that Lath. The liberty of the late Bishop of Rochester claimeth there It was in the Deanry and Diocess of Rochester and the Church was called St. Peter and Paul Neer the place of the High Altar 〈◊〉 which Church is or lâ—tely was a monument of the iâ—terment of Sir Henry Cobham Lord of the Mannour of Roundall in this Parish very antient And in this Church likewise are or lately were memorials of the interment of two of the Family of Smith one of them 230. years since and the other 200. years since of Sharpe above 160. years since And of Hernden 130. years since Shorne was antiently holden by Sir Roger Norwood SITTINGBORNE LIeth at the middle of the Northside of the County about one mile towards the south distaâ—t from Milton In the Bailiwick and Hundred of Milton Lath of Scray East division of the County and upper division of Justices in that Lath. It was in the Deanry of Sittingborne and Diocess of Canterbury and the Church was called St. Michael In which are or lately were memorials of the interment of Bourne above 250. years since of Septvans 200. years since of several of the Family of Garrard one of them 170. years since another above 160. years since another above 120. years since of Crowmer almost 120. years since and of Poode very antient Two Faires are kept here yearly one upon Whitson-monday which lasteth three dayes And the other upon Michaâ—lmass day being the nine and twentieth day of September and lasteth five dayes SMARDEN LIeth towards the middle of the County by the river Medway about five miles towards the South distant from Leneham in the Lath of Scray and division of Justices in the Lath of Shipway Such part hereof as is in the Borough of Povenden is in the Hundred of Bâ—ackborn and such part thereof as is either in the Boroughs of Omenden or Stepherst is in the Hundred of Bâ—ckley and both the said parts in the Bailiwick of the seven Hundreds and West division of the County And the residue of the said Parish is in the Bailiwâ—ck of Chart and Longbridge Hundred of Calâ—hill and Eâ—st division of the Counâ—y The liberties of the late Dean of Canterbury and St. Augustine claime there and the liberty of the late Archbishop of Canterbury claimeth over the Den of Holnherst in this Parish as held of the Mannour of Sherland It was all in the Deanry of Charing and Diocess of Canterbury The Church standeth in the Hundred of Calehill and was called St Michael In which Church was a Rood loft and in the year 1558 one Drainer of this Parish being a Justice of the Peace to get advantage of his Neighbours made in that Loâ—t nine holes through which he looked into the Church and saw who observed not the Popish Ceremonies at Masse there and them he afterwards punished whereby he got the name of Iustice nine Holes which name is yet in memory thereabouts who so desireth to read the further story hereof may finde the same at large in the third part of the Acts and Monuments of the Church fol. 971. A. A Market is kept here upon every Friday and a Faire yearly upon Michaelmass day being the nine and twentieth day of September SMEETH SMede lyeth towards the southeast part of the County about three miles and a half towards the southeast distant from Ashford in the Bailiwick and Lath of Shipway Hundred of Bircholt Franchise East division of the County and division of Justices in that Lath. It was in the Deanry of Limpne and Diocess of Canterbury and the Church was called St. Maries SNARGATE LIeth towards the southeast side of the County about foure miles towards the Northwest distant from New Romney in the Bailiwick and Lath of Shipway Hundred of Aloesbridge and East division of the County Part thereof is within the division of the Justices of the Corporation of Romney Marsh and the liberty thereof claimeth over the same Other part thereof viz. upon
Church-yard in this Parish It was all in the Deanry and Diocess of Rochester the Church standeth in the hundred of Shamell was a Collegiate Church called St. Mary Magdalen in the same are very antient Monuments of the Honourable Families of Cobham and Brook but much defaced many whereof are neer 300. years old and in this Parish for some hundred of years was the habitation of those families Iohn Lord Cobham the last of that name Son and Heir of Henry Deputy of King Edward 1. whilest in his Fathers life time he was Constable of Dovor Castle in the year 1362. founded here a Colledge which at the suppression was valued at 128 l. 1 s. 9. ob per annum And the aforesaid Lord Cobham dying without issue male the Honour and Seat came to the Family of Brook Lords Cobham COLDRED LIeth towards the East end of the County about foure miles and a half towards the North-west distant from Dovor in the Bailiwick of Stowting Hundred of Bewsborough Lath of St. Augustine East division of the County and division of Justices in that Lath it was in the Deanry of Sandwich and Diocess of Canterbury and the Church was called St. Pancras COOK STONE CVcklestan Cuâ—lestan Cuokstane Lieth towards the North side of the County by the River Medway about two miles and a half towards the South west distant from Rochester in the Bailiwick of Hoo Hundred of Shamell Lath of Aylesford West division of the County and North division of Justices in that Lath the Liberty of the late Bishop of Rochester claymeth over the same it was in the Deanry and Diocess of Rochester and the Church was called Saint Michael which above 800. years since was given by King Aethelwolf to the Church of Rochester This Parish ought Antiently to have contributed towards the repaire of the first Peere or Arch of Rochester Bridge COSMUS BLEANE LIeth at the North side of the County about three miles towards the North distant from Canterbury in the Bailiwick of Bridge and Petham Hundred of Whitstaple Lath of Saint Augustine East Division of the County and Division of Justices in that Lath The Liberties of the late Archbishop of Canterbury and Saint Augustine clayme there it was in the Deanry and Diocess of Canterbury and the Church was called Saint Cosmus and Damianus which Church was about 530. years since appropriated to the Hospitall of Saint Thomas the Martyâ— of Eastbrigge and the Vicarage was afterwards founded and endowed in the year 1375. by Simon Sudbury Archbishop of Canterbury In the year 1189. The Blean was by King Richard first granted to Christs-Church Canterbury and in the year 1270. The Nuns of Saint Sepulchers Canterbury had 90. Acres thereof granted to them which is called Minchenwood the like quantity also was granted to the Priory of Saint Gregories Canterbury and to the Hospitall of Herbaldowne the last whereof was in that part which is called Shoorth COWDEN LIeth at the South-West corner of the County by the River Medway adjoyning to Surrey and Sussex about seven miles and a half towards the South-West distant from Tunbridge In the Lath of Sutton at Hone West Division of the County and lower Division of Justices in that Lath part thereof is in the Hundred of Somerden other part thereof in the Hundred of Westram and Eaton-Bridge and both in the Bailiwick of Sutton Bromley and the residue viz. two houses and some small quality of land is in the Hundred of Axstone and Bailiwick of Sutton Dartford It was all in the Deanry of Malling and Diocess of Rochester the Church standeth in the Hundred of Somerden was called Saint Mary Magdalen and a Fair is kept here yearly upon the day of Saint Mary Magdalen being the 22th day of Iuly COWLING COulings Lieth at the North side of the County towards the River of Thames about four miles and a half towards the North distant from Rochester in the Bailiwick of Hoo Hundred of Shamell Lath of Aylesford West Division of the County and North Division of Justices in that Lath the Liberty of the Bishop of Rochester claymeth there it was in the Deanry and Diocess of Rochester and the Church was called Saint Iames the Apostle which Church Queen Ediva otherwise Edgiva Daughter and heire of Earle Sigeline Lord of Cowling in the year 960. gave to the Church of Rochester Iohn Lord Cobham about 300. yeeres since built the Castle which in the yeere 1553. was assaulted by Sir Thomas Wyat and the gate broke open with his Ordinance but defended by the Lord Cobham owner thereof CRAFORD CReyford Crecanford Eaâ—de lieth at the North side of the County towards the River of Thames by the River Cray about one mile and a half towards the West distant from Dartford in the Bailiwick of Sutton Dartford Hundred of Little and Lesness Lath of Sutton at Hone West Division of the County and upper division of Justices in that Lath it was in the Deanry of Shoreham a peculiar to the late Archbishop of Canterbury but in the Diocess of Rochester In the Church are or lately were monuments of the interment of Apleton above 200. years since Woodford above 160. years since and two Elhams above 170. years since Touching the famous Battaile fought here about 1200. years since between Vortimer King of Britaine and Heugist the Saxon and the admirable Chalke caves in this place I refer the Reader to Mr. Lambards Perambulation in Crayforde CRANBROOKE LIeth at the South-side of the County about three miles towards the South-east distant from Goudherst in the Bailwick of the seven Hundredâ— Lath of Scray West division of the County lower division of Justices in that Lath a little part thereof is in the North Borough of the Hundred of Great Barnfield another little part thereof is in the Borough of Iâ—ornden in the Hundred of Barckley all the residue is in the hundred of Cranbrook The liberty of the late Dean of Canterbury claimeth over the Towne and all the Denn of Cranbrook as parcell of the Mannour of Godmersham except the George Inne with the appurtenances which is out of that liberty and held of the late King by Knights service the liberty of the late Archbishop of Canterbury claimeth over the mannour of Sissingherst and the liberty of Wye claimeth over the Borough of Frechisley otherwise Abbot's Franchise which Borough hath a Court Leet of it self the Borsholder thereof is chosen there and the inhabitants of the same owe no service to the Court Leet holden for the Hundred onely at this Court a Consâ—â—ble for the Hundred may be chosen out of that Borough This Parish was all in the Deanry of Châ—ring and Diocess of Canterbury the Church standeth in the Hundred of Cranbrook and was called St. Dâ—nstan in which Church are monuments of the Bakers of Sissâ—â—gherst one whereof is 100. years old and of Roberts of Glassenbury a very antient Family there upon the West head of the Steeple are the armes of three Families
may be chosen a Constable of the said Hundred out of this Borough FARN BOROUGH LIeth towards the West end of the County about two miles and a halfe towards the South-west distant from St. Mary Cray in the Bailiwick of Sutton â—romley Hundred of Ruxley Lath of Sutton at Hone West division of the County and upper division of Justices in that Lath. The liberty of the Dutchy of Lancaster claimeth over the Rectory of Farnborough It was in the Deanry of Dartford and Diocess of Rochester and the Church was called St. Gyles A Faire is kept here yearly upon the day of Giles 〈◊〉 being the first day of September FARNINGHAM FRemingham Fermingham lieth towards the West-part of the County by the river of Dâ—rent about four miles towards the East distant from St. Mary Cray in the Bayliwick of Sutton Dartford Hundred of Axstone Lath of Sutton at Hone West division of the County and upper division of the Justices in that Lath. The Liberties of the Dutchy of Lancaster and late Dean of Canterbury claime there It was in the Deanry of Shoreham a peculiar to the late Archbishop of Canterbury but in the Diocess of Rochester I the year 1010. Elphege Archbishop gave the same to Christ church Canterbury In the year 1225. Stephen Archbishop of Canterbury gave the Church of Farmingham to Christ Church aforesaid to the use of the Almnery there and the Mannour of Farmingham belonged to that Church Robert Poynings that had beeâ— Sword-beare Caâ—vâ—r to Iack Cade in his rebellion and waâ— pardoned for the same afterwards in the 23 th yeare of King Hen. the 6 th made an Insurrection at this place FAWKEHAM FAlcheham Falcham Falkenham lieth towards the North West part of the County about four miles towards the South west distant from Gravesend in the Bailiwick of Sutton Dartford Hundred of Axstone Lath of Sutton at Hone West division of the County and upper Division of Justices in that Lath. It was in the Deanry and Diocess of Rochester and the Church was called St. Maries in the Church-yard whereof the liberty of the late Bishop of Rochester claimeth Brichrich otherwise Birtrick a Nobleman and Eâ—â—with otherwise Elfswith his wife gave Faukeham to the Church of Rochester and the same being taken from that Church King William the Conquerour restored it threunto This Parish antiently ought to have contributed towards the repair of the third Arch or Peere of Rochester bridge FEVERSHAM FAveresham Faureshame Fefresham Lieth at the North side of the County towards the sea about six miles towards the South East distant from Miltâ—n in the Bailiwick and Lath of Scray and east division of the County The Towne of Feversham is a member of the Towne and Port of Dovor incorporated by the Name of Major Jurats and Commonalty of the Towne of Feversham and before that by the name of Major and Commonalty of the town of Feversham and before that by the name of Barons of the Towne of Feversham The liberties of that Corporation and of the Cinque Ports clayme over the same and it is in the Division of the Justices of that Corpâ—ration also the liberty of St. Augustine claymeth over the Rectory there The residue of this Parish is in the upper division of Justices in the Lath of Scray and the liberty of Saint Augustine claimeth over the same for that it is in the Hundred of Fevâ—rsham which belonged to that Abbey All this Parish was in the Deanry of Ospringe and Diocess of Canterbury the Church standeth in the Towne and was called St. Maries in which are or lately were antient memorials of interments viz. of Thorne about 250. years since Tong above 240. years since Feversham 230 years since Vpton above 220. years since Rust and Norton about 190. years since Wigmore above 160 years since Norton Hatcher and Read above 150. years since Colwell above 120. years since and Finch many years but no certainty how many years since The Advowson of this Church was given to the Abbey of St. Augustine by King William the Conquerour and the Church was appropriated to that Abbey by Pope Alexander about the year 1168. A Market is kept in this Towne upon every Wednesday and Saturday and two Faires yearly viz. one upon St. Valentine's day being the 14. day of February the other upon the day of St. Peter ad Vincula called Lammas day being the first day of August and each of these Faires last ten dayes A Parliament was held in this Towne in the year 903. by King Athelstan William of Ipre Lord of the Mannour of Feversham granted the same in exchange for other lands to King Stephen who afterwards in the year 1148. founded an Abbey thereupon and gave the Mannour to the same which Abbey was dedicated to the honour of our Saviour and one Clarenbald Prior of Bermondsey in Surrey and twelve other Monkes all of that Priory all of the order of Cluniaâ—s were taken out of that Priory and placed in this Abbey and the said Clarenbald became the first Abbot thereof and he and the Monkes became Benedictines This foundation was afterwards confirmed by King Henry the second King Iohn and several other succeeding Kings and King Henry the second granted thereunto the aforesaid Faire still holden at this Towne on the first day of August to continue yearly eight dayes The aforesaid King Stephen Matilda his wife and Eustace his sonne were all buried in this Abbey which at the suppression was valued at 2861. 12â— 6d ob q per. annum but the body of the said King for Lucre of the Lead wherein it was coffined was taken out of the same and cast into the River FOLKESTON LIeth at the South-East side of the County adjoyning to the Sea about five miles toward the South-west distant from Dovor in the Bailiwick of Stowting Lath of Shipway and East Division of the county The Towne of Folkstone is a member of the Town and Port of Dovor and incorporated by the name of Major Jurats and Commonalty of the Town of Folkstone and before that by the name of Barons of the Towne of Folkstone the Mayor was antiently elected yearly upon the day of the Nativity of our Lady being the 8. day of September The liberties of that Corporation and of the Cinque Ports claime over the same and it is in the division of the Justices of that Corporation the residue of this Parish is in the Hundred of Folkstone and division of the Justices in the Lath of Shipway All this Parish was in the Deanry of Dovor and Diocess of Canterbury There were antiently five Churches in the same in one of which Iohn Lord Fynes Constable of Dovor Castle in the time of King William the Conquerour was buried The names of three of these five Churches were St. Peter St. Mary and St. Paul all which and one more whose name I find not are long since demolished and onely one of the said five is now remaining which was founded in the said
Mannour of Otford It was in the Deanry of Sâ—oreham a peculiar to the late Archbishop of Canterbury but in the Diocess of Râ—chester The Church was called St. Bartholomew and was antiently a Chappel to Shoreham Offa King of the Mercians in the year 791. gave Otford to Christchurch Canterbury which being afterwards taken away Weâ—hard a potent Prelate by command of Feolagildus Archbishop of Canterbury in the year 830. restored the same to that Church Here was a sumoâ—uous building raised by William Warham Archbishop of Canterbury about 150. yeers since Bâ—t Thomas Cranmer his Successor passed away the â—ame by exchange to King Hen. 8. A Faire is kept here â—early upon the day of St. Bartholomew being the 24. day of August which Saint was here holden in great Veneration The offerings unto whom here and the pretended successes thereof you may read in Mr. Lambards perambulation in Otford In the year 1016. at this place Canutus the Dane pitched his tents where King Edmund fought him and put him to flight with losse of 4500. Danes Here also about the yearâ— 793. was a cruell battle fought between Offa King of Mercia and Alrick King of Kent wherein Offo prevailed and himself slew the said Alrick OTHAM OTeham Lieth towards the middle of the County about two miles towards the South-east distant from Maidstone in the Bailiwick and Hundred of Eyâ—orne Lath of Aylesford West Division of the County and East Division of Justices in that Lath. The liberty of St. Augustine claymeth there and the liberty of Maidstone claymeth over the same It was in the Deanry of Sutton and Diocess of Canterbury and the Church was called St. Nicholas In which is or lately was a memorial of the interment of Constenton above 230. years since Ralph of Dene founded a Monastery here of Chanons Regular to the honour of St. Laurence but they growing weary of the place pretended great intolerable scarâ—ities of provision for susâ—enance there And thereupon were by Aela daughter and heir of the said Dene removed to Begham otherwise Bayham otherwise Beulin in Fant in Sussex neer Lamberherst where upon land given for that purpose by Sir Robert of Thurnham in the time of King Riâ—h 2. a Priory was built to the honour of the Virgin Mary OTTERDEN LIeth towards the middle of the County about three miles towards the Northeast distant from Leneham in the Bailiwick and hundred of Eyhorn Lath of Aylesford West Division of the County and East division of Justices in that Lath. It was in the Deanry of Ospringe and Diocess of Canterbuâ—y and the Church was called St. Laurence PADLESWORTH neer Eleham LIeth towards the southeast part of the County about three miles towards the southeast distant from Eleham in the Bailiwick of Stowting Hundred of Loningborough Lath of Shipway East division of the County and division of Justices in that Lath. The liberty of Eleham claimeth over of much thereof as is in the upper half Hundred of Loningborough The liberty of Liminge claimeth over so much thereof as is in the loâ—er half Hunâ—red of Loningborough and the liberty of the late Archbishâ—p of Canterbury also claimeth there It was in the Deanry of Eâ—eham and Diocess of Canterbury And the Church was called St. Oswald PADLESWORTH neer Snodland PEadlesworthe lyeth towards the Northside of the County by the river Medway about three miles towards the North distant from West Malling in the 〈◊〉 of Hoo Hundred of Larkefield Lath of Aylesford West division of the County and south division of Justices in that Lath. The liberty of the late Bishop of Rochester claimeth there It was in the Deanry of Malling and Diocess of Rocheâ—â—er but the Church is ruinated This Parish ought antiently to have contributed towards the repair of the nineth Arch or Peer of Rochester Bridge PATRICKSBORN LIeth towards the East part of the County by the â—iver Stoure about two miles and a half towards the southeast distant from Canterbury in the Bailiwick and Hundred of Bridge and Petham Lath of St. Augustine East division of the County and division of Justices in that Lath. The liberty of St. Augustine claimeth over the same It was in the Deanry of Bridge and Diocess of Canterbury and the Church was called St. Maries The Mannour of Patriâ—ksborn did in the sixth year of King Edward the 3. belong to the Abbey of Bello loco in Normandy by the gift of Iohn of Pratellis made to the same in the time of King Iohn And confirmed by that King As also did the Priory sometimes standing here but suppressed in the second year of King Hen. 5. St. PAUL THe Borough of Longport in this Parish is in the County of Kent in the Bailiwick of Bridge and Petham Lath of St. Augustine East division of the County and division of Justices in that Lath. It hâ—th a Constable of it self And the liberty of St. Augustine claimeth over the same But the Church and reâ—idue of this Parish is in the County of the City of Canterbury and it was all in the Deanry and Diocess of Canterbury East PECKHAM GReat Peckham Pecham lieth towards the middle of the County about two miles and a half towards the south distant from West Mâ—lling in the Baâ—liwick of Twyford Lath of Aylesford West division of the County and south division of Justices in that Laâ—h Pâ—â—t thereof is in the Hundred of Twyford and the residue in the Hundred of Littlefield It was all in the Deanry of Shoreham a peculâ—ar to the late Archbishop of Canterbury but in the Diocess of Rochester The Church standeth in the Hundred of Twyford and was called St. Michael This Parish ought antiently to have contributed towards the repair of the fiâ—th Arch or Peer of Rochester Bridge West PECKHAM LIttle Peckham Pecham lyeth towards the middle of the county about three miles towards the southwest distant from West Malling in the Lath of Aylesford West division of the County and south division of Justices in that Lath. So much thereof as is in the Borough of Oxenâ—oth is in the Bailiwick and Hundred of Hoo and the resiâ—ue is in the Bailiwick of Twyford and Hundred of Littlefield The liberty of the late Dean of Canterbury claimeth there It was in the Deanry of Malling and Diocess of Rochester the Church standeth in the Hundred of Littlefield and was called St. Dunstan In the year 960. Edgiva widdow of King Edward surnamed the elder gave this Peckham to Christchurch Canterbury Iohn Peckham 1. King Henry 3 was Lord of Peckham This Parish ought antiently to have contributed towards the repair of the fifth Arch or Peer of Rochester Bridge And here was a Preceptory or Free-Schoole founded in the year 1408. by Iohn Culpeper one of the Justices of the Common Pleas in the time of King Hen. 4. And by him endowed with 63l 6s 8d per annum PEMBURY Pâ—pingbury Lieth neer the South side of the County about three miles towards the South East distant from
of Justâ—ces in that Lath. The liberty oâ— the â—â—te Archbishop of Canterbury claâ—meth there â—nd â—he lâ—â—erty of St. Augustine claimeth over tâ—e Mannoâ—râ—â— of Râ—pole It was in tâ—e Deaâ—ry of Sandwich and Diocess of Canterbury and the Church was called St. Maries ROCHESTER THis is a City incorporated and lyeth towards the Nâ—â—th side of the County by the river Medway about six miles and a half towards the North distant from Maidstone in the Bailiwick of Hoo Lath of Aylesford West division of the County and division of the Justices of that City The liberty whereof claimeth over the same And the liberty of the late Bishop of Rochester also claimeth over the Precincts of the late Catâ—edral there It was in the Deanry and Diocess of Rochester and the Parish Church was called St. Nicholas A Market is kept here upon every Fryday And two Fairs yearly one upon St. Dunstans day being the 19th day of May and the other upon St. Andrews day being the 30th day of November Here are several things worthy to be inlarged upon viz. the Castle the City the Cathedral and Priory and the Bridge of all which in order And first of the Castle Iulius Caesar about 1700. years since in the time of Cassibelanus Governour of Britain commanded the same to be built according to the Romane order to awe the Britains and the same was called the Castle of Medway but time and tempests utterly decaying the same Oesâ— or Vske King of Kent about 1150. years since caused Hroff one of his chief Councellours and Lord of this place to build a new Castle upon the old foundation and hereupon it took the name of Hroffes Cester About 350 years afterwards Hasting the Dane besieged and much impaired the same And it afterwards lay desolate till the time of King William the Conquerour who caused it to be new built and put 500. souldiers for a guard therein To which work Odo Earle of Kent and brother of that King was a great Beneâ—actor Afterwards in the year 1088. in the time of King W. Rufus That Odo and other Barous held this Castle against him the same being then accounted the strongest and most important Castle of England And his subjects being backward to assist him He proclaimed him to be accounted a Niding which was then a word of high reproach that came not to his assistance whereupon multitudes came and the resistants were forced to yeeld the same to the King And Gunâ—ulphus a Norman then Bishop of Roâ—hester repaired and fortified the same and built the great Tower therein Afterwards in the 17. year of King Iohn the Barons held this Castle against him but he took the same And in the year following Lewes son of Philip King of France likewise took the same And King Hen. 3. afterwards gave it to Guy of Rochford a Pâ—ictovin who was afterwards banished and thereby lost the same Afterwards in the year 1264. Simon Earle of Leicester besiedged the same and won the Bridge and fiâ—st gate and then left the siege Afterwards 5. Rich. 2. the Commons of this County strongly besieged this Castle and by force took a prisoner out of the same And thus this Castle ran to decay and the old walls afterwards fâ—lling King Edw. 4. repaired both the same and the Castle As concerning the City I find it to have been of very great Antiquity but hath had several great misfortunes for about 980. years since the same was wasted by Ethelred King of the Mercians About 200. years afterwards it was assaulted by the Danes who made a stâ—ong Castle before the gate thereof but were chased away by the then King Aelfred About 1â—0 years afterwards it was assaulted and subdued by King Ethelred the West Saxon King Afterwards 7. May 1130. the same was much defaced by fire King Hen. 1. and many of his Nobles then being present at the Consecration of the Cathedral Church there 3. Iune 1137. the same was again almost all consumed with fire The like againe happened there 3. April 1177. So that It continued desolate till the time of King Hen. 3. at which time it was again repaired I finde but one Parish and Church to have been here more than now is and that was called St. Clement which in the time of King Edw. 6. was by Parliament united unto the aforesaid Parish of St. Nicholas I finde also three Mint Houses to have been granted by King Ethelstan about the year 930. to be in this City viz two for the King and one for the Bishop And 8. Decemb. 1251. King Hen. 3. held a Just here As concerning the Cathedral and Priory The same were built by King Ethelbert in the year 600. and dedicated to the honour of God and St. Andrew Endowed with lands called Priest Feilds and Channons were put into the same But the severall devastations aforesaid of the City by the Mercians Danes and West Saxons also caused the decay both of this Church and Priory both which were new builded by the aforesaid Gundulphus being Bishop there about the year 1080. And instead of six Priests at his coming found therein he placed there 60 black Monks of the ord of St. Benedict And translâ—ted into the new Church the bodies of Paulinus a Romane by Birth and others his Predecessors Bishops of that Sea which were buried in the former to which new Church Earnulphus Bishop there in the time of King Hen. 1. was a great Benefactor And to make this Church more famous about the year 1087 The aforesaid Paulinus who had been dead 440. years before was Canonized for a Saint and inshrined in Silver by Lanfranck then Archbishop of Canterbury and many Devotions and Oblations were made to the same But by the aforesaid seveâ—all fires Siege of King Iohn and long contentions and suits beâ—ween Gilbert Glanvill Bishop there and the Monks of the same wherein the Monks were driven to such necessity that they made out the aforesaid Shrine into moâ—ey The aforesaid Church and Priory fell into great decay and diâ—esteem and ran much in debâ— Aâ—terwards in the year 1250 Laurence of St. Martin becoming Bishop of that Sea one William of Hoo being keeâ—er of the Treasury of the Church built 〈◊〉 whole Quire thereof Richard Walden a Monk there built the south Isle Richard Eastgate another Moâ—k began the North Isle And 〈◊〉 William of Axenhâ—m almost finished the same Ieâ—fry of Haddenham Prioâ— theâ—e paid most of the debts and built the Dorter of the Pâ—iory and St. Edmunds Altar in the Church and thus it was again reedified anâ— began to come into esteem and the more to increase the repute thereof whereas one William a Scot was murdered neer this City in his jouâ—ney towards the Holy Land and buried in that Church he was by the aforesaid Bishop Laurence about the year 1256. procured to be Canonized for a Saint to whose Shrine was great resort and gifts and the wealth and repute of this Church was much encreased