PART THREE: LEGG, TURNER & ROSSEL FAMILIES

NOTE: A total revision of the Blog was carried out in 2020 and much new information came to light. As a result, Part Three of the Blog now covers the Legg, Turner and Rossel Families. The Moss Tree is now in Part Four of the Family Tree.

LEGG FAMILY TREE

The earliest known confirmed ancestor in the Moss line, with reliable records, is GGGGGF Thomas Moss. However, it is possible to trace the ancestors of his wife, GGGGGM Elizabeth Legg, further back. Unravelling the complex Legg tree is especially difficult, because of their habit of using the same name for multiple people who were alive at the same time. During the 1700's there were more than eight men in the family with the name George Legg, likewise women named Elizabeth or Ann Legg (the latter sometimes through marriage). Add to this, the occasional missing baptism, marriage or death registration and the puzzle requires some 'leaps of faith' to construct a family tree. In drawing connections between people I have explained my reasoning and included evidence that exists. Hopefully, in the majority of cases I have got it right!

25.0 Ancestors of GGGGGM Elizabeth Legg (1764-1853)

Early members of the Moss & Legg family Tree (More detail is on the Legg & Turner Tree diagram)

It has been said that the Legg family were in Elstead for at least 300 years, and this is probably why the surname is so prevalent in the area. The 'Leggs' joined our tree when Elizabeth Legg married GGGGGF Thomas Moss (See Part 4).The Legg family in the Elstead area seem to have descended from two brothers, who were first recorded in the area in the 1720's. Chapters 25.0 to 34.0 have a focus on the ancestors of  GGGGGM Elizabeth Legg back to GGGGGGGF George Legg c1700 and his descendants. Chapter 35.0 to 39.0 have a focus on the other branch of the Legg tree (not in our direct line) and shows the descendants of William Legg c1705, possibly the brother of GGGGGGGF George Legg c1700.
NOTE: The web page;  https://www.ancestry.co.uk/boards/surnames.legg/354/mb.ashx has a family tree of the descendants of GGGGGGGF George Legg c1700.

25.1 GGGGGM Elizabeth Legg (1764-1853)

Elizabeth was baptised on 1 Mar 1764 at All Saints, Witley, and was the fifth child born to her parents. All siblings born before her were baptised in Witley. However the 6th child, William, was baptised in Elstead, so her parents must have moved four miles from Witley to Elstead at some point between 1764 and 1766, when she was very young.

Elizabeth was a resident of the Seale Parish (possibly the parish included Elstead) at the time of her marriage to GGGGGF Thomas Moss on 10 Oct 1792. Elizabeth was older than her husband, who had been born around 1770. (See Part 4 for more information about his background.)

GGGGGP Thomas and Elizabeth Moss nee Legg settled in her home town of  Elstead, where their first two children; GGGGF George Moss b1793 and his sister Elizabeth Moss b1794 were born. By 1798 they had moved 6 miles to Farnham where children Ann Moss b1798, Thomas Moss b1799 and William Moss b1801 were born. GGGGGF Thomas Moss b1770 snr died at the age of 63 and was buried in Farnham on 6 Nov 1833 (See Part 4).

The widowed GGGGGM Elizabeth Moss nee Legg moved in with her daughter Ann Clapshaw nee Moss 40 and her carpenter husband James Clapshaw 40, who lived in Castle St., Farnham. She was listed there in the 1841 census. By 1851 Elizabeth had moved to her son’s house in East St., Farnham. Living in the house were GGGGF George Moss 57 brushmaker, his wife GGGGM Sarah Moss nee Turner 45, their children Sarah 26, James 20, Frederick 12 and Joseph 9, GGGGGM Elizabeth Moss nee Legg 87, widowed mother of George, annuant 87, and visitor Thomas Williams 26 brushmaker.

Sarah Ann Moss later wrote that she believed that her father George Moss provided "the sole support for his widowed mother (Elizabeth Moss nee Legge). I have a distinct recollection of this dear old lady. I can see her sitting by the fireside, a little round table in front of her and a large family bible resting on the table".

Burials Farnham 1853: Elizabeth Moss 88 buried 15 Jan 1853 at Farnham

GGGGGM Elizabeth Moss nee Legg b1764 died at the age of 88 and was buried in Farnham on January 15, 1853. Sarah Ann remembered the time of Elizabeth Moss nee Legg's death, "One other scene comes up before my mental vision. In a darkened room lay the mortal remains of my dear old great grandmother".

25.2 GGGGGGP George Legg (1725-1801) & Ann Smith (c1735-1794)
Not to be confused with:-
A) George Legg (1757-1842), his son who was born in Witley in 1757, but moved to Elstead around 1765 and died there in 1842 (see 27.0) OR
B) George Legg (c1740-1804), distant cousin who was born around 1740, but moved to Peper Harrow in the 1780's (see 34.4) OR
C) George Legg (1777-1842), distant cousin who was born in Elstead in 1777 but moved to Peper Harrow with his parents around 1780 and died there in 1842. (see 38.2)

Baptisms Witley 1725: George a son of George Legg was baptised 11 Jun 1725

George Legg jnr was born in 1725 and baptised at Witley on 11 Jun 1725 by father George Legg c1700 and his wife Elizabeth Legg (from Thursley). The ancestry of GGGGGGM Ann Smith is unknown at this stage. However, she was probably born in the mid 1730's in the Witley area.

Marriages Witley 1757: George Legg married Ann Smith 21 Apr 1757

On 21 Apr 1757, at the age of 31, GGGGGGF George Legg b1725 married Ann Smith 21 at Witley, and the wedding was witnessed by John Legg; his brother (b1729). Both were of the Parish of Witley. George signed his name and Ann made her mark.

GGGGGGP George and Ann Legg nee Smith had at least six children; George Legg 1757-1842 (G&A), John Legg 1758-1827 (G&A), Ann Legg 1760-? (G&A), William Legg 1762-? (G&A), GGGGGM Elizabeth Legg 1764-1853 (G&A) and William Legg 1766-? (G&A Elstead). (G&A=parents George and Ann). It seems that Ann had more children in Elstead, but as was the common practise at that time only the father was listed. The next three children were James Legg 1768, Mary Legg 1769 and Thomas Legg 1770. Ann was in her late thirties when she had her last child.

The first five children born to GGGGGGP George and Ann were baptised in Witley, and the next four were baptised about four miles away in Elstead. This suggests that George and Ann moved the few miles from Witley to Elstead at some point between 1764 and 1766.

In the Poll Books of 1775 and 1780 George Legg was listed as a freeholder of land at Witley, which he leased to other men, but his place of abode was given as Elstead. 

Burials St James, Elstead 1794: "4 May, Ann the wife of George Legg was buried; stamp duty 3p"

GGGGGGM Ann Legg nee Smith died in her sixties and was buried on 4 May 1794 at St James Parish Church, Elstead. 

Burials Elstead On 5 Feb 1801 (Feb 1801 was listed as 1800) George Legg was buried

GGGGGGF George Legg survived his wife by a few years and died in 1801 aged 75. He was buried beside his wife at St James Parish Church, Elstead on 5 Feb 1801.

25.3 GGGGGGGP George Legg (c1700-c1750) & Elizabeth Legg (c1700-c1750)
George Legg was born not far from Witley around 1700 and is the earliest known Legg relative found in historical records. As there were no members of the Legg family baptised at Witley before 1720, it was likely he moved there with his parents when he was young. It seems that George may have had a brother named William Legg c1705, and he was also living in Witley. (see 34.0)

Marriages Farnham 1724: Apr 21 GGGGGGGP George Legg of Witley & Elizabeth Legg of Thursley were married

In his early twenties George Legg formed a relationship with Elizabeth Legg from nearby (3 miles) Thursley. (Elizabeth was possibly a distant relative.) They were married about 9 miles from their homes at Farnham on the 21 Apr 1724. They had their first son, GGGGGGF George Legg junior in the following year and he was named after his father. George junior was baptised at Witley on 11 Jun 1725.

Baptisms All Saints Witley 1827: Elizabeth daughter of George Legg was baptised 3 Apr 1727

Their first daughter, Elizabeth Legg, was named after her mother and was baptised in 1727. Their second son was named John Legg and he was baptised at Witley on 6 Jun 1729. John may have been the named after a grandfather.

GGGGGGGF George Legg senior c1700 was a farmer at Witley in the early 1700's and was listed in the Poll Book of 1742 (above).

No dates of death have been found for either GGGGGGGP George Legg c1700 nor Elizabeth Legg c1700, but it is likely that they both died in the mid 1700's. As there were no 'Legg' burials at Witley up to 1770, the Legg family may have moved to another nearby town in the mid 1700's.

25.4 Elizabeth Legg (1727-?)

Witley Baptisms 1727: Elizabeth daughter of George Legg was baptised 3 April 1727

Elizabeth Legg was the second child of GGGGGGGP George (c1700) and Elizabeth Legg (c1700), and was baptised at Witley on 3 Apr 1727 by her parents. No more is known about Elizabeth.

25.5 John Legg (1729-1820) & Sarah Elliot (1734-1822)

Baptisms Witley 1730: John son of George Legg was baptised Jan 6 1730, but probably born in 1729

John Legg was the third child of GGGGGGGP George (c1700) and Elizabeth Legg (c1700), and was baptised at Witley on 6 Jan 1730 by his parents, but probably born in 1729.

Marriages, All Saints, Witley 1760: John Legg married Sarah Elliot 22 Sep 1760

At the age of 31 on 22 Sep 1860, John Legg of Witley married Sarah Elliot 26 of Chiddingfold (3 miles south of Witley). According to her burial record, Sarah was born in 1734. They had the following six children John Legg 1761-1833, Sarah Legg 1763-1816, Elizabeth Legg 1765-1765, Ann Legg 1768, Elizabeth Legg 1770 and Hannah Legg 1775. All children were baptised at Witley.

Land Tax Witley 1780: John Legg paid tax for part of Witley Park Farm

From at least 1780 to 1782 John Legg was farming part of the Earl of Shaftsbury's property called Witley Park Farm. In the early 1800's he was farming land owned by William Smythe in the locality named Grayswood (three miles from Chiddingfold and 4 miles from Witley). Daughter Sarah Legg, unmarried, died at the age of 51 at Grayswood in 1816. She was buried at Witley on 21 Feb 1816.

Burials All Saints, Witley 1820

John Legg of Grazewood  died at the ripe old age of 91, and was buried at All Saints graveyard Witley, on 21 Apr 1820.

Burials: All Saints Witley 1822

Sarah Legg nee Elliot died two years later. She was buried beside her husband at All Saints, Witley on 14 Aug 1822. In 1822 Sarah's son John Legg b1761 was farming his father's property (owned by William Smyth), but its location as described as Chiddingfold (Land Tax Records).

25.6 Six Children of John Legg (1729-1820) Sarah Elliot
John Legg of Witley married Sarah Elliot 26 of Chiddingfold (3 miles south of Witley). They had the following six children John Legg 1761-1833, Sarah Legg 1763-1816, Elizabeth Legg 1765-1765, Ann Legg 1768, Elizabeth Legg 1770 and Hannah Legg 1775. See details below

25.6a John Legg (1761-1833)

John was baptised by John and Sarah Legg in Mar 1761 at Witley. John Legg 31 may have married Ann Phillips at Frensham (9 miles from Witley) on 6 Dec 1892

Burials Witley 1833: John Legg aged 72 was buried at All Saints Churchyard

The above burial record fits well with dates and place of death (Witley), but lists John's abode as Singleton in Sussex (19 miles south of Witley)!

25.6b Sarah Legg (1763-1816)
Sarah was baptised by John and Sarah Legg on 15 Feb 1763 at Witley.

Burials Witley 1816

Sarah Legg died at the age of 51 (really 53) on the family property at Grazewood on 21 Feb 1816. She was unmarried and there were no known children.

25.6c Elizabeth Legg (1765-1765)
Elizabeth was baptised by John and Sarah Legg on 1 Jun 1765 at Witley. Elizabeth died as an infant.

25.6d Ann Legg (1768-1802)
Ann was baptised by John and Sarah Legg on 12 Jan 1768 at Witley. Ann aged 27 married John Bridger at Haslemere on 10 Jun 1795. John Legg (possibly her older brother) was a witness.

Burials Haslemere 1802: Ann Bridger was buried at Haslemere 3 Feb 1802

Ann Bridger nee Legg died at the age of 34 and was buried at Haslemere on 2 Feb 1802.

25.6e Elizabeth Legg (1770-1793)
Elizabeth was baptised by John and Sarah Legg on 27 Jan 1770 at Witley. Elizabeth may have been buried in Elstead in 1793.

25.6f Hannah Legg (1775-?)
Hannah was baptised by John and Sarah Legg on 312 Mar 1775 at Witley. No more is known about Hannah's life.

26.0 Nine Children of GGGGGP George Legg (1725-1801) & Ann Smith (1736-1794)
There are many 'Legg' children in the baptism records of Witley and Elstead born to George Legg. Most of the baptisms at Witley and one at Elstead give the name of the mother. A study of the birth dates of the rest, makes it likely that at least two more children born at Elstead, were the offspring of George and Ann Legg, making a total of nine children.

The nine children are listed below, but not much is known about the ones listed in purple writing. What is known about their lives is listed here. Much more is known about the other children and each of these have been given their own chapter, so that their descendants can be explored more fully. Exploring the lives of their descendants helps sort out and identify the numerous "Leggs', who have the same name and a similar year of birth.

26.1 George Legg (1757-1842)
George was born in Witley in 1757 and married Elizabeth Boxall in 1786. See 27.0 for more information about their lives and 28.0 for their descendants.

26.2 John Legg (1758-1827)
John was born in Witley in 1758 and married Ann Budd in 1781. See 29.0 for more information about their lives and 30.0 for their descendants.

26.3 Ann Legg (1760-1821)
Ann was born at Witley and married John Fullick. See 31.0 for more information about their lives and 32.0 for their descendants.

26.4 William Legg (1762-1862)

Baptisms Witley 1762: 19 Apr William son of George and Ann Legg

William was baptised at Witley on 19 Apr 1762, but he must have died as an infant (prior to 1866), as the next son born to George and Ann was also given the name William (see 26.6).

26.5 GGGGGM Elizabeth Legg (1764-1853)

Baptisms Witley 1764: March 1 Elizabeth daughter of George & Ann Legg

Elizabeth Legg was baptised on 1 Mar 1864 at All Saints, Witley and was the fifth child born to her parents. On 10 Oct 1792 Elizabeth married GGGGGF Thomas Moss and they went on to have two children in Elstead before moving to Farnham where another three were born. See the main entry in 25.0.

26.6 William Legg (1766–?)

Baptisms St James, Elstead: William  son of George & Ann Legg June 20 1766

William, son of "George and Ann Legg" was the first child born in Elstead. He was baptised at St James, Elstead on 20 Jun 1766. He was the second son with that name, as his older brother died in infancy. One family history lists William as marrying Ann Boxall, but no records have been found. There is a marriage to a Jane Boxall in 1780, but William would have been too young. No further information has been found about William's life.

26.7 James Legg (1768-?)

Baptisms Elstead 1768: James Legg son of George bapt. Jan 24

James was baptised by his father George Legg at Elstead on 24 Jan 1768. This James probably died young.

James had a distant cousin, James Legg b1767, born to parents William Legg and Ann Strudwick. As he was born around the same time in the same vicinity, it is easy to confuse records of these two people. There is a marriage record for James Legg marrying a Sarah Rothwell in 1798, but a witness at that wedding was James Wilkinson, who was the brother-in-law of the other James, so that record probably refers to him. (For information about the other James Legg See 36.5 below).

26.8 Mary Legg (1769-1772)

Baptisms Elstead 1769: Mary Daughter of George Legg baptised Aug 6

Mary was baptised on 6 Aug 1769 at Elstead by her father George Legg.

Burials Elstead 1772 & 1773: Mary & brother Thomas Legg were buried at Elstead

Mary Legg died at the age of 4 and was buried at Elstead on 18 Dec 1872. In a double blow to her family, her younger brother Thomas died a month later.

26.9 Thomas Legg (1770-1773)

Baptisms Elstead 1770: Thomas son of George Legg was baptised 17 Nov 1770

Thomas was baptised on 17 Nov 1770 at Elstead by his father George Legg. Although his mother's name was not listed it is reasonable to assume that he was the son of GGGGGGP George and Ann Legg nee Smith, who was in her late thirties when he was born.

Thomas Legg died at the age of two and was buried at Elstead on 3 Jan 1773. It was a double blow to his family, as his older sister Mary had died a month earlier. (See burial registration above)

27.0 George Legg (1757-1842) & Elizabeth Boxall (1767-1836)
Not to be confused with
A) GGGGGGF George Legg (1725-1801), his father, who was born in Witley in 1725 but moved to Elstead c1765 and died there in 1801 (see 25.2) OR
B) George Legg (c1740-1804), distant cousin who was born around 1740 but moved to Peper Harrow in the 1780's (see 34.4) OR
C) George Legg (1777-1842), distant cousin who was born in Elstead in 1777, but moved to Peper Harrow with his parents around 1780 and died there in 1842. (see 38.2)

George b1757 was the first child born to George b1725 and Ann Legg and was baptised in Witley on 3 Sep 1857. In the late 1760's he moved to Elstead with his parents.

Elstead, Surrey Land tax 1781: George Legg was farming next to John Boxall

In the 1780's, George Legg was farming on the Legg family farm (Domford in Thursley Rd) next to John Boxall at Elstead and developed a relationship with John's daughter. According to Land Tax records this was the situation from at least 1780 to 1786. On the 13 Jun 1786 a 'Marriage Bond Agreement' was drawn up between George's father (George Legg snr) and Elizabeth Boxall's father (John Boxall) with the quite hefty sum of £200 being nominated as the bond. This document not only indicates the degree of commitment that the young couple had, but also shows that their families were reasonably well off.

Marriages Elstead  1786: George Legg married Elizabeth Boxall 17 Jun 

At the age of 29 and a bachelor, George duly married Elizabeth Boxall 20 in St James Church, Elstead on the 17 Jun 1786. Both signed their names on the marriage registration. They had at least fifteen children; Mary Legg 1787-?, Elizabeth Legg 1789-1862, Sarah Legg 1791-1825, Charlotte Legg 1793-?, George Legg 1794-1869, Ann Legg 1796-?, William Legg 1798-1853, Jane Legg 1799, John Legg 1800-1875, Lydia Legg 1802-1890, Leah Legg 1804-?, Harriott Legg 1805-1889, Emily Legg 1807-1828, Jemima Legg 1809-1881 and Milette Legg 1811-1811.

Land Tax Elstead, Surrey 1800

George b1757 lived all his life in Elstead. From 1800 to at least 1825 he farmed a property next to brother John Legg b1758, in Elstead. Judging by the amount of tax paid, George owned a larger property. On his father's death in 1801, George Legg [jnr] b1757 became tenant of Domford Farm, a parcel of land of about 3 acres with a cottage, near common fields called Kampsteate, in the tithing of Elstead - this seems to be near Pot Common.

Land Tax Elstead, Surrey 1828

The Land Tax Record for Elstead in 1828 indicated that William Legg had taken over John Legg's property (John b1758 died in 1827), but George b1857 was occupying the same house and land. William was probably John's son, Willam Legg b1799.

Land Tax Elstead, Surrey 1831

By 1831 George was still occupying his house, leasing some land off John Leach and also leasing some of his land to T. Baigent. Also listed were William and Henry Legg (Sons of John Legg b1758).

Burials Elstead 1836: Elizabeth Legg nee Boxall aged 69 was buried 21 Jan 1836

In 1836 George's wife Elizabeth Legg nee Boxall died in Elstead at the age of 69 (b1766).

1841 Census Elstead: George Legg living with John & Elizabeth Legg at Pot Common

At the time of the 1841 census the widowed George Legg 80 (age rounded down, really 84) of independent means was recorded as still residing at 'Pot Common', Elstead with son John Legg 35 (really 39) farmer and daughter-in-law Elizabeth Legg nee Over, 40 (really 44).

Burials St James, Elstead 1842: George Legg was buried on 29 Apr 1842 aged 85

George Legg b1757 died at the age of 85 and was buried at St James, Elstead on 29 Apr 1842.

The Will of George Legg of Pot Common

In George Legg's will he bequeathed the bulk of his estate to his son John Legg b1800. However he did leave £13 to each of his remaining sons and daughters, who he named as; George Legg [b1794 1st born son], William Legg [b1799], Elizabeth b1789, the wife of Thomas Maybank, Ann [1796] the wife of Charles Norris, Jane Farndon widow [1798], Lydia [b1802] the wife of John Blackman, Leah Legg spinster [b1804], Harriot [b1805] the wife of Thomas Strudwick and Jemima Legg spinster b1809. He also left £13 to each of his sons-in-law; John Sewry husband of deceased daughter Charlotte and John Edwards husband of deceased daughter Sarah. The will was written in 1836 and executors were sons-in-law Thomas Maybank and Charles Norris.

28.0 Fifteen Children of George Legg (1757-1842) & Elizabeth Boxall (1767-1836)
Remarkably out of the fifteen children only two seem to have died as infants and one died at the age of 21. Most of the rest seem to have survived into the fifties and some to their eighties.

NOTE: George and Elizabeth's first child Mary (b1787) is included at 28.13 as it appears she died as an infant. There is also some confusion about her parentage because in the original baptism entry of 15 Apr 1787, she was listed as daughter of John, which is crossed out and replaced with George (which makes more sense in terms of other births). There is another baptism for Mary Legg on 25 Dec 1788 by parents John and Ann Legg (with the names John and Elizabeth crossed out). It seems the ministers ofthe day found the Legg family names as confusing as we find them today!

28.1 Elizabeth Legg (1789-1862) & Thomas Maybank
Elizabeth Legg was baptised at Elstead by her parents, George and Elizabeth Legg nee Boxall, on 25 Jan 1789.

Marriages Farnham 1810: Thomas Maybank of Woking married Elizabeth Legg of Farnham in 1810 at St Andrews Church

At the age of 21 Elizabeth Legg married Thomas Maybank from Woking. They had five known children; all daughters.

1841 Census Godalming: Thomas Legg 63 yeoman living with wife Elizabeth Maybank nee Legg 52 & daughter Harriet 18

By 1841 Thomas yeoman, and wife Elizabeth Maybank nee Legg were living in Little Euston, Godalming with daughter Harriet 18. In 1842 Elizabeth received a small inheritance from her father. In 1851 things were much the same except Harriet had left home. Later that year Thomas Maybank died. By 1861 Elizabeth was a 71 year old widow living with daughter Martha Maybank 42 in Witley. Elizabeth Maybank nee Legg died in 1862.

28.2 Sarah Legg (1791-1825) & John Edwards
Sarah was baptised by her parents on the 22 May 1801 at Elstead.

Marriages Seale: John Edwards married Sarah Legg at Seale on 4 Jun 1811

On 4  Jun 1811, at the age of 21 (and 3 weeks) Sarah Legg married John Edwards at Seale, where they settled to have their family. Children born to the couple were Mary Edwards 1811, George Edwards 1813, Harriet Edwards 1820-1829, John Edwards 1822 and Jane Edwards 1825.

Sarah, wife of John Edwards junior was buried at Seale on 7 Apr 1825 aged 33

Sarah Edwards nee Legg died at the age of 33 and was buried St Lawrence, Seale on 7 Apr 1825. In 1842 George Legg b1757 left £13 to "John Edwards husband of deceased daughter Sarah".

28.3 Charlotte Legg (1793-c1835) & John Sewry
Charlotte Legg was baptised by her parents at Elstead on 17 Mar 1793.

Marriages St Peter's, Frimley: John Sewry married Charlotte Legg on 1 Jan 1816

At the age of 22 Charlotte married John Sewry at Frimley (10 miles north of Elstead), where they started their family. Children born to the couple included Charlotte Sewry 1816, John Sewry 1820, Harriet Sewry 1825, Lydia Louisa Sewry 1827, Jemima Sewry 1829 and William Wallace Sewry 1831. Sadly Charlotte died at a young age, probably in the early 1830's. In 1842 her father, George Legg b1757, left £13 to "John Sewry husband of deceased daughter Charlotte" (Will was written in 1836).

28.4 George Legg (1794-1869) & Hannah Ockley
George Legg was baptised by his parents George and Elizabeth Legg at Elstead on 14 Sep 1794. As the eldest son he was named after his father. At some stage George met a young lady from Chiddingfold, seven miles from his home. According to the 1841 census Hannah was born in 1800 and would have been 21 at the time of her marriage.

Marriages  Chiddingfold 1821: George Legg married Hannah Ockley on 17 Oct 1821

At the age of 27, George married Hannah Ockley 21 on 17 Oct 1821 at St Mary's, Chiddingfold. Neither party signed their names. They had five known children George Legg 1822, John Legg 1825, William Legg 1829, Frederick Legg 1835 and Charlotte Legg 1839. Hannah would have been around 40 when Charlotte was born.

1841 Census Pot Common, Peper Harrow

In 1841 George 45 ag lab and Hannah 40 were living at Pot Common, Elstead with children John Legg 16, William Legg 12, Frederick Legg 6 and Charlotte Legg 2. They were living close to George's father George Legg b1757 who also lived at Pot Common. (See above). In 1842 his father, George Legg b1757, left £13 to son George b1794 in his will.

1851 Census

By 1851, something terrible had happened, because George now ten years older was listed as an 'inmate' and wife Hannah was listed as a housekeeper. Their young children were living elsewhere. Hannah may have been unwell too, because she died in 1853 (see burial registration below).

1861 Census Elstead George Legg 66 (bottom) was living son John & his family

In 1861 George Legg 66 widowed ag lab was no longer an inmate and was living with son John Legg 34 ag lab and his wife Mary, and their two children, at Hullbrook Common, Elstead. George died in 1869.

28.5 Ann Legg (1796-1879) & Charles Norris

Ann Legg was baptised by her parents on 22 May 1796 at Elstead. Ann was a witness at her sister Jane's wedding in Godalming in 1820. At some stage as a young adult Ann moved to London where she was courted by her future husband who had been born in Godalming.

Marriages Tower Hamlets. London: Charles Norris married Ann Legg 2 Jun 1822

At the age of 26 Ann Legg married Charles Norris 22 from Godalming in June 1822. Two months later Ann's husband John Norris was a witness at Ann's sister Lydia's wedding.

Charles and Ann had the following seven children; Mary Norris 1822-?, John Norris 1824-1892, Ann Norris 1827-?, Emma Norris 1829-1913, Jane Norris 1831-1905, Lucy Norris 1833-1869 and Laura Norris 1837-1912. In 1842 her father, George Legg b1757, left £13 to "Ann the wife of Charles Norris" in his will.

Godalming Census 1851: Charles & Ann Norris & 4 daughters living in High St, Godalming

In 1851 the family were living in High St, Godalming where Charles ran an ironmongery business.

1861 Census Godalming: Charles Norris 60 retired iron monger & wife Ann Norris nee Legg 64

In 1861 Charles 60 year old retired ironmonger and Ann Norris nee Legg were still living High St, Godalming. Charles Norris died in 1865 and Ann Norris nee Legg aged 82 died in 1879 at Farncombe, Godalming.

28.6 Jane Legg (c1798-c1765) & John Farnden

No baptism registration has been found for Jane Legg, but we know of her because she was listed as a beneficiary in her father's will. Looking at the birth years of her siblings, 1798 seems to be the most likely year of her birth. This fits with a listed age of 40 in 1841 (when ages were rounded down).

Marriages Godalming 1820: Jane Legg married John Farnden on 12 Jun 1820

At the age of 21, Jane Legg married John Farnden at Godalming on 12 Jun 1822. Sister Ann was a witness at the wedding. Two years later Jane was a witness at sister Lydia's wedding.

John and Jane Farnden had two children; John Farden 1821 and Jane Farnden in 1823. Both were born in Godalming. Tragically on 1823, three years after their marriage, husband John died at the age of 24. Jane was left a widow with two very young children raise by herself.

1841 census Godalming

In 1841 Jane Farnden nee Legg 40 was living with her father and mother-in-law in High St, Godalming with her two children John Farnden shoemaker and Jane (both not shown in above extract). In 1842 on the death of her father Jane Farndon, widow, was left £13.

In the 1861 census Jane gave an age of 61, which confirms she was born in 1798. In that census she was working as a houskeeper. No more is known about Jane Farnden nee Legg. As she was not listed in the 1871 census she either married for a second time, died in the 1860's or more likely migrated to S.A to be near her son. Son John Farnden b1821 a joiner, migrated to South Australia in the 1850's and married Sarah Partridge in 1857. He died in 1909 at Saddleworth S.A.

28.7 William Legg (1799-1853)
William was baptised by his parents on the 20 Apr 1799. William may have married Ann Andrews 18 Feb 1821 in Elstead. Both parties signed the registration. His older brother George was a witness at the wedding and made his mark. By 1841 Ann must have died.

1841 Census Elstead: William Legg b1799 working as a farm labourer

In 1841 William 40 was living alone at Westbrook, Elstead and working as a farm labourer, probably up until his father died in 1842. On his father's death William inherited £13.

1851 census Elstead: Brothers John & William Legg living at Pot Common

In 1851 William 52 was living on the family farm at Pot Common with his brother John Legg 50 farmer and John's wife Elizabeth Legg nee Over aged 56 . For an unknown reason William's father had bequeathed the family farm to one of his younger sons; John (See above). William died at a young age so may not have inherited the farm because of ongoing illness or disability. Brother John was listed as a farmer of 10 acres employing 1 labourer and brother William was listed as a farm labourer.

Burials Elstead 1853: William Legg and sister-in-law Hannah Legg nee Ockley were buried within 1 week of each other

William Legg died two years later in 1853 and was buried at Elstead on 27 Feb one week after his sister-in-law Hannah Legg nee Ockley (wife of older brother George Legg b1894. He had no known children.

28.8 John Legg (1800-1875) & Elizabeth Over
John Legg was baptised on 14 Sep 1800 by his parents in Elstead.

Marriages Elstead 1831: John Legg married Elizabeth Over 21 Feb 1831

At the age of 30, John Legg married Elizabeth Over at Elstead. Neither party signed their name. At the time of the 1841 census, John Legg 35 (really 39) farmer and his wife Elizabeth Legg nee Over, 40 (really 44, b1796) were living with their widowed father George Legg 80 (age rounded down, really 84) at 'Pot Common', Elstead. On the death of his father in 1842 John inherited the family farm.

In 1851, John 50 year old farmer, was living on the family farm at Pot Common with his wife Elizabeth Legg nee Over aged 56 and his brother William 52 farm labourer (see above). For an unknown reason John's father had bequeathed the family farm to John and not his older brothers (See above). John was listed as a farmer of 10 acres employing 1 labourer and brother William was listed as a farm labourer.

1861 Census Elstead: John & Elizabeth Legg nee Over were still living at Pot Common

In 1861 John 61 and Elizabeth Legg nee Over 66 were still living alone on the family farm at Pot Common, Elstead. Elizabeth Legg probably died in 1866 at the age of 72 (b1795). John Legg died at the age of 74 in 1875 and was buried at Elstead on 8 Jul. There were no known children.

Probate for John's will was granted on the 12 Aug 1875, with nephew John Blackman one of the executors (son of sister Lydia Blackman nee Legg).

28.9 Lydia Legg (1802-1890) & John Blackman
Lydia was baptised at Elstead by her parents on 8 Aug 1802.

Marriages Elstead 1827 ;John Blackman married Lydia Legg on 22 Dec 1827 at Elstead

At the age of 25, Lydia Moss married John Blackman at St James, Elstead. Sister Jane Farndon nee Legg and brother-in-law Charles Norris (married to Ann Legg) were witnesses. All parties signed their names. John and Lydia had the following children; Jane Blackman 1829-1911, Jemina Blackman 1832-1900, John Blackman 1834-1883, Leah Blackman 1837-1901, Jonathan Blackman 1839-1916 and Albert Blackman 1847-1935.

Elstead Census 1841: John Blackman 45 year old labourer, wife Lydia & 5 children living in Elstead Village.

In 1841 John 45 and Lydia Blackman and five children were living in Elstead Village. On the death of her father "Lydia the wife of John Blackman" inherited £13. By 1851 John 54 had become built up a buiness and was listed as a grocer, baker and draper. They were still living in Elstead Village.

Elstead Census 1861: John Blackman, wife Lydia & 4 unmarried children & 1 grandchild

In 1861 John and Lydia were still running their grocer's business and employing at least one of their children. They were also caring for grand-daughter Blanche Blackman.

1871 Census Elstead: Lydia Blackman 6o year old widowed grocer & 5 children

By 1871 Lydia's husband had died, but as a widow she kept the grocer's business running with the help of two unmarried daughters; Jemima 31 and Leah 29. Unmarried sons Jonathan 27 carrier and Albert 24 gardener were also living at home. Grand-daughter Blanche Jane Blackman was a pupil teacher at the age of 14. Ten years later in 1881 Lydia 75 was still a shopkeeper in Elstead, living with unmarried daughter Jemima Blackman 48.

Wills 1890: Probate granted for the will of Lydia Blackman

Lydia Blackman nee Legg died on 9 Jun 1890. Probate was granted to her son Jonathon Blackman sub postmaster.

28.10 Leah Legg (1804-1880) & John Trussler

Leah was baptised at Elstead by her parents on 27 May 1804. On the death of her father in 1842 "Leah, spinster" inherited £13. In 1851 Leah 46 was living at Farnborough.

Marriages Hambledon 1857: Leah Legg married John Trussler

At age of 47 on 4 Jun 1851, Leah Legg married John Trussler, gardener at Hambledon. Both parties signed the registration. Sadly within four years Leah was a widow. Sadly John Trussler died in 1859 aged 71.

1861 Census Farnborough: Leah Trussler nee Legg 56 gardener's widow

In the 1861 census, Leah Trussler 56, was listed as a gardener's widow living alone at Farnborugh. Ten years later she was listed as a 66 year old widowed annuant living in the village of Farncombe, Godalming.

Gravestone Farnborough Cemetery: Leah Trussler

Leah Trussler nee Legg 76 died 20 Nov 1880 and was buried next to her husband in the Victoria Rd Cemetery, Farnborough. There were no known children.

28.11 Harriet Legg (1805-1889) & Thomas Strudwick
Harriet was baptised at Elstead by her parents on 25 Oct 1805.

Marriages 1832: Thomas Strudwick married Harriet Legg on 14 Oct 1832

At the age of 27 Harriet married farmer Thomas Strudwick on 14 Oct 1832. Witnesses at the wedding were sister Leah Legg and brother-in-law Charles Norris (husband of sister Ann).

1851 Census

By 1851 Upstead Farm had expanded to over 130 acres and employed workers and servants to help run the farm. The family had also expanded to include children Elizabeth Strudwick b1841, Frances (Fanny) Strudwick b1843, Frederick Strudwick b1845, Ellen Strudwick b1847 and George Strudwick b1849 (not listed). There were no major changes in 1861 and 1871, except the children started leaving home to make their way in life. Harriet Strudwick nee Legg died in 1889 aged 84.

28.12 Jemima Legg (1809-1881) & Arthur Heath
Jemima was baptised at Elstead by her parents on 23 Jul 1809.

Marriages Newington, Surrey 1840

Jemima Legg married blacksmith Arthur Heath on 11 Oct 1840 at Newington. Two years later on the death of her father in 1842, "Jemima, spinster" inherited £13 (the will had been written in 1836 prior to her marriage).

1841 Census Esher, Surrey

In 1841 Arthur Heath, 27 year old blacksmith, and Jemima Heath nee Legg 30, female servant, were living at Esher; 22 miles from Elstead. By 1851 they had three children Lois Heath 8, George Heath 6 and Enos Heath 3. In 1871 the family were recorded as living at West End, Esher and consisted of Arthur Heath 57 blacksmith, Jemima Heath nee Legg 60 and unmarried son George Heath 25 balcksmith

1881 Census Esher: Jemima Legg 71 widow, living at West End Esher with two children

By 1881 Jemima's husband had died and she was a widow still living at West End with son George Heath and his wife Mary and their son George Heath b1876.

Jemima Heath nee Legg aged 72 died in 1881 and was buried in Esher on 15 Oct 1881.

28.13 Three Children Who Died Before 1836

Three of the children of George Legg b1757 were deceased by the time his will was written in 1836 and comprised Mary Legg died bef 1836, Emily Legg d1828 and Millette Legg d1811

29.0 John Legg (1758-1827) & Ann Budd (1759-1827)

Baptisms, All Saints Witley 1759: Sep 5, John son of George & Ann Legg

John was baptised on 5 Sep 1758 at Witley. According to the place of birth of his siblings, the family moved four miles from Witley to Elstead at some point between 1766 and 1769. In the Poll Book of 1780 his father George Legg, was listed as a freeholder, whose place of abode was Elstead.

Marriages St James Elstead 1781: John Legg married Ann Budd on 27 Aug 1781

On 27 Aug 1781 John, a 23 year old bachelor, married Ann Budd 22 year old spinster (1759-1827) at Elstead, Surrey. Both parties signed the marriage registration and both were 'of this parish'. John and his wife had ten children all born in Elstead; Ann Legg 1782-1819, John Legg 1783-1791, George Legg 1785-?, William Legg 1787-?, Mary Legg 1788-?, James Legg 1788-?, Henry Legg 1793-1871, Thomas Legg 1796-1840, Charlotte Legg 1798-? and Sarah Legg 1802-?. Ann was 43 when she had her last child.

Surrey Land Tax Records 1786: John Legg occupier leased land from the owner George Legg

In 1786 John Legg was leasing a property at Elstead from his father George Legg b1725 who was the proprietor. From 1801 to 1822 John Legg was the owner and occupier of land in Elstead next to brother George Legg. The two brothers probably inherited to the land from their father who died in 1801.

Burials Elstead 1827 Ann Legg buried 1 Feb 1827 aged 68 (b1759)

Ann Legg nee Budd died at the age of 68 and was buried in the Parish of Elstead on 1 Feb 1827.

John Legg died at Elstead aged 69 just over a month after his wife and was buried at Elstead on 14 Mar 1827.

30.0 Ten Children of John Legg (1758-1827) & Ann Budd (1759-1827)

John Legg and Ann Budd had ten known children. Five of their younger children moved 24 miles to Thames Ditton in the 1820's and lived there for the rest of their lives.

30.1 Ann Legg (1782-c1812) & Henry Reffold

Ann was baptised by her parents John and Ann Legg on 7 Mar 1782 at Elstead. She was named after her mother.

Marriages Elstead 1806: Henry Reffold married Ann Legg 7 Apr 1806

At the age of 24 Ann Legg married Henry Reffold in Elstead. Both "were of this parish" and Ann signed her name. There was another couple named Ann and Henry Reffold, already living in Elstead, prior to the marriage of our Henry and Ann Reffold. They had a daughter Charlotte in 1799 and son James baptised in Jun 1806. My guess is that, of the Reffold children born during this period, only four were born to Ann Reffold nee Legg and they were Ann Reffold 1807-1808, Henry Reffold 1808-1898, Marianne Reffold 1810-1812 and Charlotte Reffold 1811-1846. Charlotte was possibly born at the time of her mother's death, but was not baptised until 5 months later.

John was baptised by his parents John and Ann Legg on 28 Sep 1783 at Elstead. He was named after his father. John's father died in 1827, but possibly owned land in Witley, where he originated. Son John may have taken this over, when he became an adult, and was living there when he met his future wife. John Legg 43 possibly married Ann Bridger of Haselmere in Witley in 1826. No more is known.

30.3 George Legg (1785-1846) & Elizabeth Willis

George was baptised by John and Ann Legg on 10 Jul 1785 at Elstead

Marriages Elstead 1809: George Legg married Elizabeth Willis 4 Apr 1809

At the age of 24 on 4 Apr 1809, George Legg married Elizabeth Willis 20 (b1790) at Elstead. His younger brother William was a witness and he was the only one able to sign his name. This fits with the circumstances of William's wedding in 1821 when William signed his name, but George who was a witness made his mark.

George and Elizabeth Legg nee Willis moved one mile to Peper Harrow, where they had the following children; Harriet Legg 1810, Mary Legg 1812, Charlotte Legg 1818, Jemima Legg 1822 and Ann Legg 1825. Elizabeth Legg nee Willis was in her mid thirties when she had her last baby.

1841 census Peper Harrow: George 55 & Elizabeth Legg 50 with daughter Ann Legg 15 (ages rounded down)

In 1841 George Legg 55 labourer was living at Peper Harrow with wife Elizabeth Legg nee Willis 50 and youngest daughter Ann 15.

Burials Peper Harrow 1846: George Legg buried 7 Jan 1846 aged 62 (b1785)

George Legg died at the age of 62 and was buried in Peper Harrow on 4 Jan 1846. In 1851 widow Elizabeth Legg nee Willis 64 (really 61) was living with daughter Charlotte and her family in Elstead. Elizabeth Legg nee Willis may have died in Elstead on 23 Sep 1866 with a given age of 72 (really 76).

30.3a Five Children of  George Legg (1785-1846) & Elizabeth Willis (1790-1866)
i) Harriet Legg (1810-1876)

Harriet was baptised at Peper Harrow on 14 Feb, 1810 by her parents George and Elizabeth Legg nee Willis. She possibly married George Mansel at Godalming in 1835. Harriet Mansell nee Legg died in 1876 in Farnham.

ii) Mary Legg (1812-?)

Mary was baptised at Peper Harrow on 5 May 1812 by her parents George and Elizabeth Legg nee Willis. No more is known.

iii) Charlotte Legg (1818-1857) & Joseph Watson

Charlotte was baptised by parents George and Elizabeth Legg on 25 Oct 1818 at Peper Harrow. The family abode was listed as Shackleford (one mile from Pepper Harrow).

Marriages Farnham 1842 Charlotte Moss married Joseph Watson 12 Feb 1842 at Farnham

Charlotte 24 married Joseph Watson, who had an occupation that looks like "brushmaker in wosted? factory". They were married on 12 Feb 1842. All parties signed their names. The fathers were listed as George Legg labourer and Joseph Watson brushmaker. One of the witness at the wedding was GGGGM Leah Sarah Moss nee Turner b1803. In 1841 GGGGP George Moss 45 (b1793) brushmaker and Sarah Moss nee Turner 35 were living in East St, Farnham. Sarah's mother (Sarah Legg nee Turner b1781) had lived in Peper Harrow after her marriage and probably knew Charlotte as a child

Census Farnham 1851: Joseph & Charlotte Watson & family & Sarah Legg

In 1851 Charlotte 33 (b1818 Godalming) was living in Elstead Village with her husband Joseph Watson 33 (b1818 York) licensed victualler, five children, her widowed mother, Elizabeth Legg nee Willis 61 (b1789 Elstead), and sister-in-law Ann Nind nee Legg 26 (b1825 Peper Harrow). Charlotte Watson nee Legg died in Farnham in 1857.

iv) Jemima Legg (1822-1893) & George Freeman

Baptisms Elstead 1822: Jemima Legg of Peper Harrow baptised by George & Elizabeth Legg

Jemima was baptised by parents George and Elizabeth Legg nee Willis in Elstead, but the family abode was listed as Peper Harrow. At some point Jemima met her future husband who lived 10 miles from her home in Crondall. They possibly met in Farnham which was located about halfway between Peper Harrow and Crondall and we know several members of the Legg family, including sister Charlotte, lived in Farnham.

Marriages Crondall, Hampshire 1841: George Freeman married  Jemima Legg at Crondall.

Jemima 19 married George Freeman on 13 Feb 1841 at Crondall. By 1851 Jemima 39 had three sons; Charles, Mark and Luke Freeman. Jemima was 30 when her last son was born in 1851 and does not seem to have had any more children.

1861 Census Crondall Hampshire: George 47 & Jemima Freeman nee Legg 41 (really 39)& three children

In 1861 George 47 and Jemima 41 were living in Crondall with their three sons.

1881 Census Crondall, Hampshire

By 1881 George 67 and Jemima 59 were living alone.

1891 Census Crondall, Hampshire

The 1891 census entry lists George, 76 year old labourer, living with wife Jemima 71 retired laundress and their son Mark 43 and his wife Harriet. Jemima Freeman nee Legg died in Hampshire in 1893 aged 71.

v) Ann Legg (1825-1854) & Henry Nind
Ann Legg is very much a mystery. According to the above 1841 census in 30.3, she was born at Peper Harrow in 1825. According to her marriage registration her father was a farmer named Henry Legg. However no baptism record has been found and the only 'Ann Leggs' born around 1825 in that area were Ann Legg born to George Legg ag lab in 1825 and Ann Legg born to William Legg at Thursley in 1825. As she was described as a sister to Charlotte Watson nee Legg in the 1851 census, I am assuming the former is correct and that she was actually the daughter of George and Elizabeth Legg nee Willis.
 

NOTE: George Legg b1785 did have a brother named Henry b1793. Perhaps for an unknown reason Ann was raised by George and Elizabeth Legg nee Willis and was regarded as a daughter.
 

Taking all the above into account I conclude that Ann Legg was born in 1825 and baptised by father George Legg, farmer (baptism record) and Elizabeth Legg nee Boxall at Peper Harrow (from 1851 census in 30.3a iii above). At the age of 15 she was living at Peper Harrow in 1841 with her parents (see 1841 census above).

Marriages St George Southwark, 1848: Henry Nind 22 married Ann Legg 23

At age of 23 Ann Legg married Henry Nind 22 in 1848 at Southwark. All parties signed their names. In 1851 Ann 26 was living with her sister's family in Farnham. Ann Nind nee Legg died at Claygate, Thames Ditton in 1854 aged 29. Five of Ann's siblings were living in the Thames Ditton area in the latter half of the 1800's.

30.4 William Legg (1787-1871) & Ann Andrews

NOTE: The 1787 and 1788 baptism records for 'Legg' children at Elstead are not reliable. There were two baptisms in 1787 for babies named Mary Legg and William Legg, followed by two baptisms for children born to John and Ann Legg in 1788, but three of these records have been altered. Obviously not all of these entries are correct.

Baptisms Elstead 1787: Mary Legg baptised by John (CROSSED OUT) 7 replaced with George & Elisabeth Legg

Baptisms Elstead 1887: William Legg baptised by John & Ann Legg 

Baptisms Elstead 1788: William Legg baptised by John & Ann Legg BUT complete entry is crossed

Baptisms Elstead 1788: Mary daughter of John & Elizabeth (CROSSED OUT) & replaced with John & Ann Legg

My conclusions are that:-
i) Mary Legg baptised 15 Apr 1787 was the daughter of George and Elizabeth Legg nee Boxall
ii) Mary Legg baptised 25 Dec 1788 was the daughter of John and Ann Legg nee Budd
iii) William Legg baptised on 9 May 1787 by John and Ann Legg is correct.
iv) William Legg baptised on 9 May 1788 is an error.

Marriages Elstead 1821: William Legg married Ann Andrews 18 Feb 1821

At the age of 34 in 1821, William Legg married Ann Andrews (b1799) at St James Elstead. Both William and Ann signed their names, but brother George, who was a witness made his mark. This fits with the circumstances of George's wedding in 1809, when William was a witness and signed his name, but George made his mark. Ann Andrews was the daughter of Samuel and Sarah Andrews.

Five years later in 1826, William was one of the witnesses at brother Thomas' wedding to Mary Andrews, as can be seen by the above signature from that wedding. Two Legg brothers married two Andrews sisters. Interestingly, William's two youngest sisters, also married two brothers; Josias and Elias Scott.

William and Ann Legg nee Andrews had eight known children; Mary Legg 1822-1905, Anne Legg 1823-1892, William Legg 1824-?, George Legg 1826-1828, Martha Legg 1828-?, Lucy Legg 1831-1878, Thomas Legg 1833-? and Susanna Legg 1835-? Their second daughter and first son were named after themselves. All children were baptised at Elstead and father William was described as a farmer.

1841 Census Elstead

At the time of the 1841 census William Legg 45 farmer (really 53), Ann Legg nee Andrews 40, Martha Legg 10, Lucy Legg 8, Thomas Legg 6, Lucena Legg 4 and mother-in-law Sarah Andrews 60 were living on Pot Common, Elstead.

Burials Elstead 1842

William's wife Ann Legg nee Andrews died at the age of 43 and was buried at Elstead on 22 Apr 1842.

Census Elstead 1851: Living at Pot Common were William Legg & Elizabeth Legg and son Thomas

By 1851 William 62 (really 63) was living at Pot Common with his second wife Elizabeth nee Unknown 62 and son Thomas 17. William was a famer of 12 acres. Apart from his occupation, not much had changed in the next decade. In 1861 William was listed as a 73 year old grocer, wife Elizabeth was 72 and son Thomas as 27.

Census Elstead 1871: William Legg 86 living with son Thomas 38, his wife Ann Legg 35 & their son Lucena 3 months

By 1871 William 86 (really 83) had been widowed for the second time, and he was living on the family farm at Pot Common with son Thomas 38, his wife Ann 35 and their daughter Lucena 3 months. Thomas was listed as a farmer of 3 acres and William as a retired grocer.

Burials Elstead 1871: William Legg aged 87 (b1784) buried 26 Jun 1871

William Legg died at the age of 87 (really 85) and was buried at Elstead on 26 Jun 1871. The official who carried out the service was the curate of Peper Harrow Parish.

30.5 Mary Legg (1788-1788)
Mary was baptised by her parents John and Ann Legg (John & Elizabeth crossed out) on 25 Dec 1788 at Elstead. As no more is known, she most likely died as an infant.30.6 James Legg (1790-1847)

James was baptised by his parents John and Ann Legg on 28 Nov 1790 at Elstead.

James a farmer was living at Claygate, Thames Ditton with his younger sister Charlotte Scott nee Legg and her family in 1841. He was listed as head of the family so it was probably his house. His age was listed as 45 but in reality it was 50. Ages were rounded down at this census, and his age was mistakenly rounded down too far.

Burials Claygate, Thames Ditton 1847: James Legg was buried on 25 Apr 1847

James Legg died in 1847 and was buried at Claygate, Thames Ditton, near his sister's home on 25 Apr 1847. His age was listed as 54, but he was really 56. There were no known children.

30.7 Henry Legg (1793-1871) & Sarah Stapely
Henry was baptised by his parents John and Ann Legg on 15 Sep 1793 at Elstead.

Marriages Elstead 1828: Henry Legg married Sarah Stapley on 12 Feb 1828

At the age of 35 Henry Legg bachelor married Sarah Stapley at Elstead in 1828. Henry made his mark. The following year in 1829 Henry was recorded with a tenement at Elstead.

1851 Census Elstead: Living at Pot Common were Henry 57 & Sarah Legg 61 with son Henry Legg 21

In 1851 Henry 57 year old farmer of 3 acres at Pot Common was living with Sarah Legg nee Stapley 61 and son Henry Legg 21. Wife Sarah 66 died in 1856 with the death registered at Hambleton.

1861 census Elstead: Henry widowed farmer 63 was living with unmarried son Henry 30 & a servant

In 1861 Henry was a widowed farmer aged 63 living with his unmarried son Henry Legg 30 at Ridgeway, Elstead. Henry died in early 1871, with his death registered at Hambledon. His recorded age was 76. Only one child is known.

30.8 Thomas Legg (1796-1864) & Mary Andrews
Thomas was baptised by his parents John and Ann Legg, on 17 Jan 1796 at Elstead. In 1821 Thomas' older brother William married Ann Andrews at Elstead. Five years later Thomas was courting Ann's sister Mary Andrews.

Marriages Elstead 1826: Thomas Legg married Mary Andrews on 7 Aug 1826

At the age of 30, Thomas married Mary Andrews 30 at Elstead. Older brother William was a witness at the wedding. All parties signed their names. Not long after their marriage Thomas and Mary Legg nee Andrews moved to Thames Ditton, where Thomas worked as a gardener. Mary Andrews (b1796) was the daughter of Samuel and Sarah Andrews, and sister of Ann Andrews who married William Legg, older brother of Thomas in 1821.

Baptisms 1829 Claygate, Thames Ditton. Thomas Legg baptised by Thomas & Mary Legg nee Andrews on 30 Aug

Thomas and Mary Legg had a son on 1829 who they named Thomas. They were living at Claygate in Thames Ditton at the time. Thomas Legg senior's wife Mary Legg nee Andrews died at Claygate in the early 1830's.

By 1841 Thomas Legg 45 market gardener, had married a second wife named Eliza 35 and they were living at Giggs Hill, Thames Ditton with son Thomas 13 and children from the second marriage Jane Legg 4, Mary Legg 2 and Louisa Legg 4 months. The family was still at Giggs Hill in 1851 and more children had arrived named James Legg 8, Elizabeth Legg 5, John Legg 4 and William Legg 2.

1861 Census, Thames Ditton

In 1861 Thomas 65 was still working as a market gardener and living at Ditton Common with wife Eliz 55, and sons James Legg 18, John Legg 14 and William Legg 12.

Burials Thames Ditton 1864: Thomas Legg b1796 was buried on 26 Aug aged 69

Thomas Legg aged 69, was buried at Thames Ditton on 26 Aug 1864.

30.9 Charlotte Legg (1798-1880) & Josias Scott
Charlotte was baptised by her parents John and Ann Legg on 18 Nov 1798 at Elstead. In 1826 Charlotte's sister Sarah married a man named Elias Scott at Thames Ditton. At the wedding and later on, Charlotte got to know Elias' brother Josias, and they started courting.

Marriages Thames Ditton: Josiah Scott married Charlotte Legg 17 Jan 1834

In 1834, eight years after her sister's wedding, Charlotte Legg 36, married Josias Scott at Thames Ditton. Both signed their names and so did Mary Scott, sister of Josiah, who was one of the witnesses (she also was one of the witnesses at the earlier wedding in 1826.) Charlotte had three children before 1840; named David Scott 1835, Emma Scott 1837 and Mitchell Scott 1839.

1841 Census: Josias & Charlotte Legg living in Thames Ditton with their family

By 1841 Josias 45 year old ag lab and Charlotte Scott nee Legg 40 (43) had settled in Claygate, Thames Ditton and were living with Charlotte's brother James Legg 45, farmer. Their family consisted of David 7, Emma 3 and Mitchell 2. Also living with them was niece Ann Reffold 2 (on next page). Ann was born in 1839 at Richmond, Surrey and must have been a relative of the husband of sister Ann Reffeld nee Legg who was deceased. (See above)

1851 Census Thames Ditton, Surrey: Josias and Charlotte Scott nee Legg , 4 children & niece Ann Reffold

In 1851 Josias 54 farmer, and Charlotte Scott nee Legg 53 were living in Thames Ditton with their four children David Scott 17, Emma Scott 14 , Mitchell Scott 12 and Thomas Scott 9 and niece Ann Reffeld 12.

1861 Census Thames Ditton: Charlotte Scott widow 64 & family 

By 1861 Charlotte was a 64 year old widow, but she had taken on the family farm of 80 acres and employed two men to help with the work, Living in the home were Charlotte, head of the family, sons Mitchell Scott 21 and Thomas Scott 19 and Thomas Legg 30 (b1831 Claygate)

1871 Census Esher, Surrey: Charlotte Scott with son Thomas and his wife Ellen

By 1871 Charlotte 63 was still head of the house but now described as a retired farmer. She was living in Esher, Thames Ditton, with her son Thomas and his wife Ellen Scott 28. In 1881 aged 80 (really 83) she was living alone in the same area and listed her birthplace as Elstead. Charlotte Scott aged 77 (really 82) was buried in West Molsley, Thames Ditton on 20 May 1880.

30.10 Sarah Legg (1802-1833) & Elias Scott
Sarah was baptised by her parents John and Ann Legg on 4 Mar 1802 at Elstead. She was the last child born to Ann Legg nee Budd. It seems that Sarah's brother moved 24 miles from Elstead to the Thames Ditton area to establish a farm. On one of her visits to her brother Sarah met a young man named Elias Scott.

Marriages Thames Ditton 1826: Sarah Legg married Elias Scott on 13 Nov 1826

At the age of 24, Sarah married Elias Scott at Thames Ditton. Neither Sarah nor Elias signed their names, but Elias' sister Mary Scott signed her name as a witness. Mary was also a witness at her other brother's marriage to Sarah's sister in 1834 and the two signatures are the same (See Charlotte's marriage registration above.)

Sarah and Elias Scott nee Legg had three known children; John Scott 1827, Elias Scott 1829 and Charlotte Scott 1831

Burials Thames Ditton 1834: Sarah Scott was buried on 14 Apr 1834 aged 30

Sadly Sarah Scott nee Legg died at the age of 30, at her home in Claygate, and was buried at Thames Ditton on 14 Apr 1833.

31.0 Ann Legg (1760-1821) & John Fullick

Baptisms Witley 1760 Bottom: 18 Nov Ann daughter of George and Ann Legg

Ann was born in Witley, and being the first daughter of George and Ann Legg, was named after her mother. She was baptised at All Saints, Witley on 18 Nov 1760. According to the place of birth of her siblings, the family moved four miles from Witley to Elstead at some point between 1764 and 1766. In the Poll Book of 1780 her father, George Legg, was listed as a freeholder whose place of abode was Elstead.

Marriages All Saints Headley 1784 John Fullick married Ann Legg

Most existing family trees list Ann Legg 24 as marrying John Fullick at All Saints, Headley, Hampshire (eight miles from her home) on 20 Nov 1784. Both parties were listed as "of the Headley Parish". The location is unusual because marriages usually occurred in the home town of the wife, but there may have been reasons for her moving to Headley prior to her marriage. A witness at the wedding was William Budd and both Ann and John signed the marriage registration. They had twelve known children, all born in Headley.

Burials Headley 1821: Ann was buried on 2 March 1821

Ann Fullick nee Legg was buried at All Saints, Linford, Headley on 2 Mar 1821 aged 60. Her age at death fits a birth date of 1860.

32.0 Twelve Children of Ann Legg (1760-1821) & John Fullick
Ann Fullick 1785–1798, John Fullick 1786–1857, William Fullick 1788–1841, George Fullick 1789–?, Richard Fullick 1791–1876, Thomas Fullick 1794–, James Fullick 1796–1858 (twin), Stephen Fullick 1796–1853 (twin), Mary Fullick 1798–1798, Sarah Fullick 1800–1873, Henry Fullick 1801–1890 and Charles Fullick 1803–1876. Mary had her last child at the age of 43.

33.0 Domford: The Legg Family Farm 

The Surrey Community Website has an excellent article that includes information about the Legg family land holdings at this time. As has already been mention, there were at least two George Leggs living in Elstead during the second half of the 1700's. (GGGGGGP George b1725, who married Ann Smith, and George Legg c1740 who married Elizabeth Stovold?). It seems Domford Farm passed from GGGGGGP George and Ann Legg to their son George Legg b1757. The descendants of the other George and his wife Elizabeth Legg nee Stovold moved to a farm at Peper Harrow (See 37.0).

Domford, in Thursley Road, was a farm, with a bread oven, a salt hole and a big open chimney. The owners held tenancy of the land under the Bishops of Winchester until the 1920's when one could buy land from the ecclesiastical commissioners. In 1795 George Legg [b1725] lived at 'Domford' Farm which included a cottage now called 'Little Barn' in Ash Lane. After his father's death in 1801, son George Legg [b1757], inherited:-

1) the pasture called Heathfield, lying at Staniford in the tithing of Elstead
2) a parcel of land about 3 acres with cottage called Domford near commonfields called Kampsteate, in the tithing of Elstead - this seems to be near Pot Common.
3) plus a quarter of an acre "known as the same" with cottage now fenced around, and surrendered to James Legg - and his heirs. [possibly this should read John Legg and his heirs?]

Little Barn, in Ash Lane, was farmed from Domford by George Legg b1725, a tenant of the Bishop of Winchester in 1795. He allowed his son James [John?] to have ¼ acre to build "a cottage with a paling fence around it". On the death of George Legg [senior in 1801], the Bishop took his eldest son, George Legg [jnr, b1757] as tenant of Domford, and confirmed James Legg [John?] as tenant of the ¼ acre, now called 'Little Barn' in 1800. 'Domford' continued in the hands of the Legg family and their connections throughout the century.

John Legg [b1800; son of George Legg [1757-1842], yeoman, inherited the property from his father, in 1847. In 1876 [on the death of John Legg 1800-1875] it passed to John's nephew, Jonathan Blackman, a farmer. By 1903 Jonathan Blackman [son of Lydia Blackman nee Legg b1802; daughter of George Legg b1757] had become postmaster. He surrendered 'Domford' to the Lords of the Manor of Farnham, and the tenancy was acquired for £700 by another George Legg (probably related), who was in business from 1903-1912 as a farmer and carrier on the Elstead to Farnham route.

George Legg, carrier c1900. The 'Legg' house in the background still exists

NOTE 1: The article mentions 'James Legg' as a son of George Legg, but I can find no record of either of the 'Georges' having a son named James. Perhaps it was supposed to be John Legg b1758.

NOTE 2: 'Domford' was acquired by George Legg; farmer and carrier. The website http://rediscover.co.nz/rediscovering-a-moment-in-time-whats-in-a-photo/ contains a photo and the following information. "The house directly behind the wagon is the Legg family home. They owned several properties in the village and had been one of the main families there for several hundred years. The graveyard of St James is testament to that, with several plots containing clusters of headstones for various branches of the family. We took a pilgrimage back to the village just a few weeks ago, back to the street to find the house, to stand where his great-grandfather once stood in this very photo. ‘Mertyle Cottage 1868’ still stands, as with the neighbour’s house. The ivy has gone, as have the trees, but the house remains solid as it has for hundreds of years. For a moment, just a moment, we stood in silence and smiled. What’s in a photo? Everything."

33.1 Congregational Chapel at Elstead
A relative of GGGGGM Elizabeth Moss nee Legg [b1764], GGGGGM Mrs Sarah Legg (nee Turner of Peperharrow b1781), financed the building of the Congregational chapel in Elstead. The two families were joined when Elizabeth's son George Moss married Sarah's illegitimate daughter GGGGM Sarah Turner. An article with more detail (summary below) about this, is available at 'The Surrey Community Website'.

"About the year 1819, members of Ebenezer Chapel of Godalming introduced the preaching of the Gospel in their style [Congregational] to Elstead. The congregation was chiefly made up of farm labourers, those in humble circumstances and protestant dissenters and meetings were initially held outdoors in nearby Tilford.

A Congregational mission chapel was founded at Elstead in October 1834. From 1834-1845 worship was conducted in a room hired from the British School. A new chapel was built in 1845 with the money lent by Mrs. Sarah Legg [b1781]. Mrs Legg was a widow, of Peperharow and she lent the £550 at 4% per annum. [Widow of George Legg of Peper Harrow b1777]

The Rev. S. Hillyard 'closed his labours here' on February 23rd 1840 and was succeeded by the Rev. John Moss [See Moss Tree in Part 4]. The numbers in the Church had by this time risen to 41 and in 1837 a Wormley Branch of the Congregational Church had been formed, with five members transferred from Godalming.

The foundation stone was laid on June 3rd 1845 by Mrs. [GGGGGM Sarah] Legg of Royal Farm. The scene was graphically described by the local paper – 'An immense tent was erected on the site which was most tastefully decorated by some of the young ladies of the village with scriptural devices and ornamental flower work. After the ceremony nearly 300 persons sat down to tea, which, being concluded, the meeting was addressed by several of the neighbouring ministers. Our beautiful village presented a most animated appearance, and, the day being remarkably fine, the whole passed off most pleasantly.'

A copy of the document of dedication read at the foundation service was put in a bottle under the foundation stone, together with a silver shilling, sixpence and fourpenny piece of the reign of Queen Victoria and a halfpenny of George III. By this time (1845) the house was occupied by the Rev. Edward Bromfield who had by this time succeeded the Rev. Moss as Minister."

Another website 'The Story of Congregationalism in Surrey' provides other details of the history of this little church including the fact that "Rev. J. Moss was appointed in July, 1840, and ordained at Kingston, September 30, but successive bereavements of wife and sister led to his retirement on December 21, 1841".

33.2 Domford Farm: modern day description

'Domford' is a charming, timber framed, Grade II Listed property dating back to the mid-16th Century. The property, although in need of updating, retains most of its original features with heavy beaming and a stunning Inglenook fireplace in the drawing room. The ground floor comprises a farmhouse kitchen with AGA and pantry. A dining room is to the rear and is part of the Edwardian extension, with a staircase leading to the upper floor. A sitting room, where another staircase can be found, adjoins the drawing room which together creates one entertaining space. Upstairs there are four bedrooms, two to the front being particularly good sizes. There is also a walk-through study and a family bathroom.

'Domford' is set well back from the Thursley road on the edge of Elstead, a much sought after Surrey village. The historic towns of Farnham and Godalming are 5.6 and 6.3 miles away respectively.

34.0 Descendants of William Legg (c1705-?) Brother of GGGGGGGF George Legg?
William Legg is believed to be the brother George Legg c1700 (See 34.0). The two brothers moved to the Witley area in the early 1700's and had families there. William's wife's name may have been Elizabeth because that is the name they gave to their first daughter.

William Legg had three known children by an unknown wife; William Legg 1728, Elizabeth Legg 1732, and Ann Legg 1737; baptised in Witley. Although no other children are known for certain, they may have also had a son named George Legg baptised 4 miles from Witley in Elstead around 1740. Many of the baptism pages are in poor condition and it is not surprising that some children's baptisms cannot be found. No more is known about William's life. Information about the lives of William's (c1705) four children are below.

34.1 William Legg (1729-1784) & Ann Strudwick
William Legg was baptised by his father at Witley on 19 Feb 1729. On 10 Oct 1756 William Legg married Ann Strudwick and they had six known children; Ann Legg 1758-1802, William Legg 1760-1846, Elizabeth Legg 1762-1784, George Legg 1764-1846, James Legg 1767-1795 and Sarah Legg 1769-1842. See 35.0 for more about William's b1729 married life and 36.0 for information about his children.

34.2 Elizabeth Legg (1732-?)

Baptisms Witley 1732: Elizabeth daughter of William Legg was baptised 18 Mar 1732

Elizabeth was baptised at Witley of 18 Mar 1732 by her father William Legg. As the first daughter she may have been named after her mother. No more is known about Elizabeth and she may have died as an infant.

34.3 Ann Legg (1737-?)

Baptisms Witley 1737: Ann daughter of William Legg was baptised 25 May 1737

Ann was baptised at Witley on 25 May 1737 by her father William Legg. No more is known about Ann and she may have died as an infant.

34.4 George Legg (c1740-1804) & Elizabeth Stovold
No baptism or marriage registrations have been found for George, so his parentage is conjecture at this stage. Going by the dates of the birth of his own children, he was most likely born between 1740 and the early 1750's and married around 1770. We do know he married a woman named Elizabeth, and some family trees nominate Elizabeth Stovald as his wife. (See 37.0 for more about his life).

35.0 William Legg (1729-1784) & Ann Strudwick

Baptisms Witley 1729 William Son of William Legg was baptised 19 Feb 1729

William Legg was baptised by his father at Witley on 19 Feb 1729. As the first son he was named after his father. At some stage William moved four miles to Elstead (with his parents) prior to the birth of the fourth child George in 1777 (see below).

Marriages Elstead 1756: William Legg of this Parish and Ann Strudwick were married 10 Oct 1756

On 10 Oct 1756 William Legg of the Parish of Elstead married Ann Strudwick (b1737 Witley) of the same parish. They were married by Henry Strudwick, curate (probably a relative) and one of the witnesses was James Strudwick (possibly her father or brother). Only Henry Strudwick was able to sign his name. William and Ann Legg nee Strudwick had six known children; Ann Legg 1758-1802, William Legg 1760-1846, Elizabeth Legg 1762-1784, George Legg 1764-1846, James Legg 1767-1795 and Sarah Legg 1769-1842. All were baptised in Elstead.

The 1774-1780 Poll Books listed William Legg as a freeholder in Witley Parish and residing at Elstead.

Burials Elstead 1780

Ann Legg nee Stradwick was buried on 10 Feb 1780 at Elstead. In 1783 her son William Legg 23 married Ann Elsley at Elstead. Both made their mark on the registration. William Legg and Ann Elsley had eight children.

William Legg 55 died four years later in 1784 and was buried next to his wife at Elstead on 17 Jun. He was listed as William Legg senior to differentiate him from his son William Legg junior (1760-1849).

36.0 Six Children of William Legg (1729-1784) & Ann Strudwick (1737-1780)

36.1 Ann Legg (1758-1802) & James Wilkinson
Ann was baptised at Elstead by her father William Legg on 29 Jan 1758.

Marriages Elstead 1782

At the age of 24 Ann married James Wilkinson of Peper Harrow at Elstead on 11 Aug 1782. Ann made her mark and did not sign the marriage registration. James and Ann Wilkinson had five known children; James Wilkinson 1784–1791, John Wilkinson 1786–1827, Elizabeth Wilkinson 1788–?, Thomas Wilkinson 1790-? and Ann Wilkinson 1792–1802. Ann gave birth to her last child at the age of 34.

On 15 Aug 1801 Ann's husband, James Wilkinson, was a witness at her nephew's wedding. Nephew William Legg b1783 married Mary Brocks at Elstead and James Wilkinson signed as a witness (see below).

Burials Elstead 1792

Ann Wilkinson nee Legg died 25 March 1792, followed by her new born daughter Ann, ten days later. Mother and daughter were buried together at Elstead.

36.2 William Legg (1760-1849) & Ann Elsley (1759-1827)

William was baptised at Elstead by his father William Legg on 14 Sep 1760.

Marriages Elstead 1783: William Legg married Ann Elsley 3 Mar 1783

William Legg 23 married Ann Elsley 24 on 3 Mar 1783 at Elstead. Both parties made their mark. They had eight known children (all but one were daughters) all born in Elstead; William Legg 1782, Maria Legg (Skelton) 1787, Jemima Legg (Frimley) 1792-?, Esther Legg 1794, Rhoda Legg 1797, Keziah Legg 1799, Phillis (Phebe) Legg 1801 and Wilhamina Legg 1804.

Burials Elstead 1827 Ann Legg buried 1 Feb 1827 aged 68 (b1758 Frimley)

William Legg survived his wife by many years and in his older age moved a few miles to Thursley.

Burials Thursley 1849: William Legg, abode High Comb, Bottom Thursley buried 12 Sep aged 90

William Legg reached the grand old age of 90 (b1760) and died whilst living at High Comb, Bottom Thursley on 12 Sep 1849.

36.2a William Legg (1783-?) & Mary Brocks

Baptisms Elstead 1783: July 26, William Legg son of William & Ann Legg was baptised

William was baptised by parents William and Ann Legg nee Brocks at Elstead on 26 Jul 1783.

At the age of 21, on 15 Aug 1801, William Legg married Mary Brocks at Elstead. William signed his name, but Mary made her mark. One of the witness was William's uncle by marriage, James Wilkinson (married to William's father's sister Ann Legg b1758). William had no brothers, who could fill that role. Mary Brock may have been Mary Brooks born in Farnham Oct 1779, which would have made her 24 at the time of her marriage.William and Mary had three known children baptised at Elstead named William Legg b1805, Frederick Legg b1808 and Mary Legg b1812-1812.

No more is known about William and Mary Legg nee Brock. The only death record that had been found is of William Legg dying at the age of 87 in Elstead on 26 Jun 1871, however as there are no other records between 1812 and 1871 this is likely to have been a different William Legg (b1787) who married Ann Andrews (See above).

NOTE: Mary Legg nee Brooks may have died and William remarried or the couple may have migrated overseas.

36.3 Elizabeth Legg (1762-1793)
Elizabeth was baptised at Elstead by her father William Legg on 12 Sep 1762. There is no record of marriage, but two children were baptised in Elstead to "singlewoman" Elizabeth Legg, and one or both may have been her babies. They were Charlotte Legg b1784 and George Legg b1793. Elizabeth would have been 22 when the first baby was born.

Burials Elstead 1793: 17 Mar Elizabeth Legg was buried

Elizabeth Legg 30, may have been buried in 1793 at Elstead on 17 Mar 1793. If this was the case, she probably died as a result of the birth of her son in that year. Her two young children were probably raised by her parents or siblings. Usually with married women, the death registration listed them as "the wife or widow of ….", and this is another indication that she may not have been married.

 

36.4 George Legg (1764-1846) & Sarah Coles (1769-1842)
George was baptised at Elstead by his father William Legg on 29 Sep 1764.

Marriages Elstead 1789: George Legg married Sarah Coles on 23 Apr 1789

George Legg married Sarah Coles at Elstead on 23 Apr 1789. One of the witnesses was brother-in-law James Wilkinson (married to sister Ann in 1782). Sarah signed her name, but George and James made their mark. George and Sarah had two known children; Sarah Legg 1789 (married William May 1805) and William Legg 1794 (married Elizabeth Jardine 1817).

1841 Census Elstead: George & Sarah Legg with grandson William May

In 1841 George 75 and Sarah Legg nee Coles 72 (b1869) were living at Hankly Common near Elstead with grandson William May. William Legg 40, George Legg 15 (son and grandson) and widowed daughter Sarah May lived close by with her son George May 25.

Burials Elstead 1842: Sarah Legg 73 was buried in Elstead on 21 Apr 1842

Sarah Legg nee Coles died in 1842 and was bured in Elstead on 21 Apr 1842 aged 73 (b1769).

Burials Elstead 1846: George Legg buried on 20 Oct 1846 at Elstead aged 83 

George Legg 83 died in 1846 and was buried on 20 Oct at Elstead next to his wife.

36.4a William Legg (1794-1872) & Elizabeth Jardine (1799-1757)

Baptisms Elstead 1794: 12 Apr William son of George & Sarah Legg was baptised

William was baptised at Elstead by his parents George and Sarah Legg nee Coles on 12 Apr 1794. William was one of the few 'Leggs' at that time who had taken up a trade, rather than becoming a farmer or labourer. William was a carpenter.

At the age of 21 William, a carpenter, married Elizabeth Jardine 18 (bMar 1799) at Thursley on 11 Nov 1817. Both were of this parish and both signed their names. William and Elizabeth had twelve known children; William Legg 1818-?, Elizabeth Legg 1819-1884, Mary Anne Legg 1822-?, Sarah Legg 1824-1911, Charlotte Legg 1827-1858, John Legg 1830-1852, George Legg 1831-1851, James Legg 1833-1853, Harriet Legg 1835-1835, Emma Legg 1837-1884 ?, Ellen Legg 1840-1857 and Lucy Legg 1842-1842. Elizabeth Legg nee Jardine was 43 when she had her last baby.

1841 census Peper Harrow: William & Elizabeth Legg nee Jardine & 5 children 

In 1841 William and his family were living in Peper Harrow and William was working as a carpenter. Occupants of the house were William Legg 45, Elizabeth Legg 40.

1851 Census Peper Harrow: William & Elizabeth Legg nee Jardine & 6 children (1 on next  page) living on Royal Common

The 1851 census provides more detail. William Legg 56 (b Apr 1794 at Elstead) carpenter and wife Elizabeth 53 (b1799 at Thursley) were living on Royal Common, Peper Harrow next to distant cousins William Legg 45 (b1805 Peper Harrow) and George Legg 38 (b1812, Peper Harrow) farmers. Elizabeth Legg died at the age of 58 in 1857 and was buried at Peper Harrow. The 1840's and 1850's were very bad years for the family. Six members of the family died during these decades and were buried at Peper Harrow; Lucy Legg at 3 months in 1842, George Legg aged 10 in 1851, John Legg aged 22 in 1852, James Legg aged 19 in 1853, Ellen Legg aged 18 in 1857 and mother Elizabeth Legg aged 58 in 1857. In addition married daughter Charlotte Legg died at Epson in 1858 aged 30.

A decade later in 1861 William Legg 65, carpenter, was living with his unmarried daughter Mary Ann Legg 38 in the same location. In 1871 William 77 year old carpenter and Mary Ann 42 were living in Royal Common Cottage.

Probate 1872: William Legg of Peper Harrow died 16 Mar 1872

As the two records above show, William Legg died at the age of 77 on 16 Mar 1872 (b1794), and was buried at Peper Harrow. His unmarried daughter Mary Ann was the sole executrix of his will.

36.4b William Legg (1818-1886) & Emma Bodenham

William Legg was baptised at Elstead on the 21 Jun 1818 by his parents William Legg carpenter and Elizabeth Legg nee Jardine. As the first son, he was named after his father, and was trained by him as a capenter. On 23 Jun 1841 William 23 married Emma Bodenham at the Robert St Chapel, St George, Hanover Square, London.

William and Emma had seven known children; Elizabeth (Eliza) Legg 1843–1915, Alfred William Legg 1844–1899, Lucy Mary Ann Legg 1847–1858, Charlotte Emeline Heleana Legg 1849–1922, Emma Legg 1853–1926, Peace George Legg 1857–1931 and Henry James (Harry) Legg 1860–1938.

1851 Census Wandsworth, Surrey: William Legg carpenter, Emma Legg nee Bodenham & 4 children

In 1851 William and Emma were living at Wandsworth with four of their children.

1871 Census Wimbledon: William & Emma Legg with four children

In 1871 William and Emma were living at Wimbledon with four of their younger children. By 1871, son William Alfred Legg b1844 had migrated to New Zealand and in that year he married Marion M Clark. In 1875 William and Emma lLegg eft England and followed their son. They arrived in Port Chalmers, New Zealand on the vessel Taunton. They went on to reside at Clyde street, Balcutha. His last known address in England was Chestnut Place, Wimbledon, Surrey.
 

William Legg died on 31 Aug 1886 at Balclutha, Clutha, Otago, New Zealand. He died from dropsy (fluid through the body) and chronic bronchitis. He was buried in the Balclutha Cemetery.

36.5 James Legg (1767-1847) & Sarah Rothwell (?-?)
James was baptised at Elstead by his father William Legg on 24 Jan 1767.

Marriages St James Elstead 1798: James Legg married Sarah Rothwell on 15 Feb 1798

At the age of 31 James Legg married Sarah Rothwell at Elstead. One of the witnesses was brother-in-law James Wilkinson (husband of sister Ann). James signed his name but Sarah made her mark. There do not seem to have been any children born to the couple and Sarah probably died at a young age.

1841 Census Elstead: James Legg 73 was living with the Reffold Family

In 1841 James 73 year old bricklayer was living with Charles 44 and Mary Reffold nee Ellis 37 and their family of seven children in Elstead Village.

Burials Elstead 1847: James Legg buried 15 Feb 1847 aged 76

James Legg was buried on 15 Feb 1847 at Elstead aged 76 (really 79).

36.6 Sarah Legg (1769-1794) & Thomas Mayor

Sarah was baptised at Elstead by her father William Legg on 8 May 1769.

Marriages Godalming 1789: Thomas Mayor married Sarah Legg on 26 Sep 1789

At the age of 21, on 26 Sep 1789, Sarah Legg married Thomas Mayor in Godalming (four miles from her birth place). Sarah signed her name but Thomas made his mark.

Burials Godalming 1794: Sarah wife of Thomas Mayor buried 22 Oct 1794

Sarah Mayor nee Legg died just five years after her marriage and was buried at Godalming on 22 Oct 1794 aged 25.

37.0 George Legg (c1740-1804) & Elizabeth Stovold (1736-1809)

Not to be confused with:-
A) GGGGGGF George Legg (1725-1801), distant cousin who was born in Witley in 1725 but moved to Elstead c1765 and died there in 1801 (see 25.2) OR
B) George Legg (1757-1842), distant cousi; son of A), who was born in Witley in 1757 but moved to Elstead c1765 and died there in 1842 (see 26.1) OR
C) George Legg (1777-1842), son of George bc1740, who was born in Elstead in 1777 but moved to Peper Harrow with his parents around 1780 and died there in 1842. (see 38.2)

No baptism or marriage registrations have been found for George, so his parentage is conjecture at this stage. Going by the dates of the birth of his own children, he was most likely born between 1740 and the early 1750's and married around 1770. We do know he married a woman named Elizabeth, and some family trees nominate Elizabeth Stovald as his wife. Elizabeth was probably baptised in Elsread by her father Nicolas Stovald on 1 feb 1736.

George and Elizabeth had two known children; Elizabeth Legg b1774 and George Legg born 1777. They were likely to have been the first children born to the couple, as they were named after their parents. Elizabeth Legg nee Stovald would have been 41 when she had her last baby which explaims why theu had such a small family (for the times). The baptism records from Elstead Parish confirm the parents to be George and Elizabeth Legg. (See chapters below). Land Tax records list the land owned or occupied by George Legg. In 1780 he was listed as owning and occupying land in Elstead. The tax paid (5 pounds) showed it was a midsized piece of land. He also occupied a much larger farm owned by Mr Bridger, on which there was tax of 23 pounds.

Tax Record Elstead 1782: Bottom Proprietor M. Bridges & Occupier George Legg

The Elstead Tax records of 1782, 1786 and 1787 shows that George Legg was the still the occupier of land owned by Mr Bridger, later owned by John Legg. Not far away was a farm owned by W. Stovolds (above) and John Stovold; perhaps relatives of Elizabeth Stovold.

At some point around 1780 George and Elizabeth moved their young family a few miles to Peper Harrow where George set up the family farm. He was not listed on Land Tax records prior to 1785.

Land Tax Peper Harrow 1785 George Legg occupier

By 1785 George was occupying land owned by William Smyth in Peper Harrow and paying 13 pounds tax. He occupied the same land and paid the same rate of tax up until his death in 1804. In 1796 and in 1804 George Legg c1740 was listed as a jury freeholder residing at Peper Harrow.

Burials in the Parish of Elstead 1804; bottom entry 4th Dec George Legg of Royal Common was buried

George Legg of Royal Common died on 29 Nov 1804 and was buried at Elstead on 4 Dec 1804. He was most likely in his sixties.

Royal Common is about 1 mile east of Elstead (No. 1 on bottom right corner of map) and about the same distance south west of Peper Harrow. Although this area is some distance from the hamlet of Peper Harrow it was included in the Parish of that name. Royal Common, Elstead is owned by the Ministry of Defence in modern times, but managed by Surrey Wildlife Trust. It contains a popular nature walk. Some documents list the Legg property as Ryall Farm, which is a derivation of Riehall. Riehall (or Royal hodie) in Peper Harow was a very early grant to Waverley Abbey by Ralph the sheriff, confirmed by the pope in 1147.

George Legg of Peper Harrow died 29 Nov 1804 and probate was granted on 6 Jun 1805 to his son George Legg b1777. The three beneficiaries listed were his "dear wife Elizabeth", son George Legg who was sole executor and daughter Elizabeth Tupper nee Legg wife of James Tupper. The value of the estate was given as less than £2000.

Burials Elstead 1809: Jun 15 Elizabeth Stovold, widow

George's wife, Elizabeth Legg nee Stovold?, widow, died four years later in Elstead and was buried on 15 Jun 1809.

38.0 The Two Children of George Legg (c1740-1804) & Elizabeth Stovald (1736-1809)

George and Elizabeth Legg nee Stovald had two known children. We know that the family moved to Peper Harrow soon after the birth of their children and there are no records for more children, which was quite unusual. Two possible explanations are that George's wife died at around the time she gave birth to her last child (quite common) or that she was in an older age group, when she was married c1770. If she was in her early thirties when she was married, she would have been around forty when she gave birth to George b1777. The latter proposition would mean she was born around 1740, making her a similar age to her husband. No birth, marriage or death records relating to Elizabeth Unknown have been found.

38.1 Elizabeth Legg (1774-1811)

Baptisms Elstead 1774: Elizabeth daughter of George & Elizabeth Legg (inserted above) baptised Apr 30

Elizabeth Legg was born in 1774 and baptised at Elstead by her parents George and Elizabeth Legg. (see above). As the first daughter she was named after her mother. (Elizabeth Legg b1774 can be ruled out as the wife of GGGGGF Thomas Moss, because his wife declared she had attained the age of 21 when they were married in 1792).

As a child, Elizabeth moved to Peper Harrow with her parents, who established a family farm there in the 1780's. At some stage Elizabeth met James Tupper of Chiddingfold. The initial marriage Bonds were signed in Feb 1798 by Elizabeth's father George Legg.

Marriages Peper Harrow 15 Feb 1798: James Tupper married Elizabeth Legg.

At the age of 24 Elizabeth Legg married James Tupper at Peper Harrow on 15 Feb 1798. Both parties signed their names. Elizabeth and James Tupper had one child named Sarah Tupper, who was born 12 Feb 1806 at Chiddingfold. Sarah b1806 may have been named after her uncle's wife, Sarah Turner b1781 or his daughter Sarah Leah Turner b1803.

Burials Chiddingfold 1811: Elizabeth Tupper nee Legg was buried 20 Jun 1811

Sadly Elizabeth Tupper nee Legg died at the age of 37 and was buried at Chiddingfold on 20 Jun 1811.

38.2 George Legg (1777-1842) of Peper Harrow
Not to be confused with:-

A) GGGGGGF George Legg (1725-1801), distant cousin who was born in Witley in 1725 but moved to Elstead c1765 and died there in 1801 see (25.2) OR
B) George Legg (1757-1842), distant cousin who was born in Witley in 1757 but moved to Elstead c1765 and died there in 1842 (see 27.0) OR
C) George Legg (c1740-1804), his father who was born around 1740 but moved to Peper Harrow in the 1780's (see 34.4)

Baptisms Elstead 1777: Jan 24 George son of George & Elizabeth Legg was baptised

George Legg was baptised at Elstead on 24 Jan 1777 by his parents George and Elizabeth Legg. As the first son he was named after his father. He was the younger brother of Elizabeth above. As a child he moved to Peper Harrow with his parents, where they established a family farm. For more about George Legg of Peper Harrow b1777 and his married life see below.

39.0 Diagram of the Legg & Turner Family tree

TURNER & ROSSEL/ROSWELL FAMILIES

40.0 Turner Ancestors of Chiddingfold

There were many Turner families living in Farnham and Chiddingfold in the second half of the 1700's. Although these two locations were 12 miles apart, there were interactions between family members living not only at these two locations, but also Peper Harrow, Elstead and other nearby hamlets and towns. See map above.

 

40.1 Sarah Turners of the Chiddingfold area
It seems likely that our GGGGGM Sarah Turner was unmarried and in her early twenties when she gave birth to a daughter (Sarah Leah Turner) on 22 Apr 1803 in Farnham, but may have been as young as 18. That would mean she was born before 1885. The fact that she married in Chiddingfold, suggests she came from there, but she may have come from Farnham or another hamlet nearby. There were many Sarah Turners born around this time, including three at Farnham in the late 1780's, but it wis unlikely that these women would have had a baby as teenagers in 1803.

Below are records in the area for women named 'Sarah Turner' between 1770 and 1800. Italics have been used to indicate which records do not apply to GGGGGM Sarah Turner.

Baptisms at Farnham.
A) Sarah Turner baptised by George & Ann Turner 1772 [Either died 1796 see E) or married James Harding see I]
B) Sarah Turner baptised by John & Ann Turner 28 May 1785 [possibly died at birth]
C) Sarah Turner baptised by John & Ann Turner 3 Feb 1787 [Next child born given same name as B]
D) Sarah Turner baptised by James & Mary Turner 11 May 1787
Deaths at Farnham
E) Sarah Turner "singlewoman" 30 Apr 1798. [Possibly A aged 26]
F) Sarah Turner bur 1821 aged 51 (Also possibly A)
G) Sarah Turner bur 1832 aged 48, b1784 [possibly B or C]
H) Sarah Turner bur 1836 aged 78 b1758 [too old]
Marriages at Elstead
I) Sarah Turner to James Harding 19 Apr 1796. Sarah wife of John Harding buried 19 Nov 1800 at Elstead
Baptisms at Chiddingfold
J) Sarah Turner born to William & Ann Turner [1757-1814]. Sarah was baptised in Jun 1781 [other children were Mary Turner b3 Dec 1787-1833, John Turner b12 Jun 1789 and William Turner 6 Apr 1797.
K) Sarah Turner born to Richard & Mary Turner nee Enticknap [1741-1813] Sarah was baptised Jul 1781 [other children were Thomas Turner 1768, John Turner 1770 and Mary Turner 1774]. Richard and Mary were married 1767 at Chiddingfold.
Deaths at Chiddingfold
L) Sarah Turner a child 22 May 1800 [born after 1790]
M) Sarah Turner buried 14 Jul 1797 [likely to be an adult; mother or grandmother of one of the Sarahs J or K. May have been GGGGGGGM Sarah Turner nee Shepherd]
N) Sarah Turner buried 1774

Nothing certain can be determined from the above records, but it seems likely that our Sarah was one of the two Sarahs born in Chiddingfold in 1781 (see baptism registration below). As to which couple were her parents, I am guessing it was J) William and Ann, because GGGGGM Sarah named her second son William (after her father) and because Ann listed her daughter as Sarah Legg (nee Turner) in her will.

40.2 GGGGGGP William Turner (1754-1800) & Ann Rossel (1757-1814) of Chiddingfold

William Turner was born at Chiddingfold and baptised by his father GGGGGGGF John Turner on 24 Jun 1754. William's parents were probably John Turner and Sarah Shepherd, married in Wonersh (8 miles from Chiddingfold) 28 Sep 1749. Sarah Turner nee Shepherd may have died in 1797.

GGGGGGM Ann Rossel (Russell) was born a few years later than William, and baptised by her father William Rossel on 21 Jan 1757. As Ann grew up in the same hamlet as her future husband, they would have known each other all their lives.

Marriages Chiddingfold 1781

William Turner 26 married Ann Rossel 24 in Chiddingfold on 27 Feb 1781. All parties signed their names. Witnesses were John Mansell and John Evans.

In 1784, Ann Turner nee Rosell's father died. In his very detailed will he listed all his children, but DID NOT mention daughter Ann. However, Ann's brother William Raswell's (b1761) will of 1843, listed "my nephew William Turner, the son of my sister Ann Turner [nee Rossel] deceased". (See below). Also William Raswell b1795 included as his relatives in his will, John Turner (son of Ann) and James Mann (husband of Ann's daughter Mary).

GGGGGGM Ann gave birth to the couple's first baby a few months later. In all, there were four known children; GGGGGM Sarah Turner was baptised in Jun 1781 followed by Mary Turner b3 Dec 1787-1833, John Turner b12 Jun 1789 and William Turner 6 Apr 1797. There is the possibility that there was a fifth child. Edward Turner was baptised on 5 Nov 1795, but the parents were listed as William and Sarah? Turner. Perhaps the name 'Sarah' was mistakenly recorded as the mother's name instead of 'Ann'. Edward's birth year fits in with the birth years of the other children, but as there are no other records that tell about his life, he most likely died as an infant. Ann Turner nee Rossel was 40 when she gave birth to her last child in 1797.

GGGGGGF William Turner, yeoman, was listed as a jury qualified freeholder at Chiddingfold from 1787 to 1796.

William Turner b1754 died at the young age of 45 and was buried at Chiddingfold on 28 Mar 1800. Although his wife Ann was left a widow with at least four children to raise alone (the youngest only three years old), she was well-off financially as shown in the following land tax records.

Land Tax Records Chiddingfold

From 1800 to 1810 Ann was listed in land Tax Records as owner of several fields at Chiddingfold. In the above record she owns fields named College Land, Crabhorn, Hutchhurst and Roversh as well as some meadows. Ann was listed as the occupier (herself) in all but one field, which was occupied by a Mary Turner (a relative of husband William Turner?). Some of the fields must have been quite large as they attracted larger amounts of tax than most others in the area.

Ann Turner nee Rossel died at the age of 57 and was buried at Chiddingfold on 17 Feb 1814. The will of Ann Turner nee Rossel was written 15 Feb 1811 and proved after Ann's death at London 23 Jun 1814. Below is an edited extract of the will, which is quite hard to read. [My comments are in square brackets].

“This is the last will.... of Ann Turner [nee Rossel] of Chiddingfold [1757-1814, widowed in 1800] in the county of Surrey widow…. I give to my son, John Turner [b1789, unmarried in 1811] the sum of 50 pounds, and to my sons-in-law George Legg [of Peper Harrow b1777, married to Sarah Turner b1781] and James Mann [son-in-law married to Mary Turner b1787] the sum of 250 pounds ….. and give to my friends Thomas Sadler of Dunsfold [3 miles from Chiddingfold], yeoman, James Tupper of the Parish of Chiddingfold, yeoman [married to Eliz Legg b1774, sister of George Legg b1777], William Pratt? of Chiddingfold, carpenter all the rest and residue of my goods & chattels……. shall pay and apply the dividend for the benefit of my son William Turner [b1797-? and was aged 14 in 1811] until he shall attain the full age of twenty seven years and as soon as he shall attain that age… to pay and apply the residue of my estate…. for his own use and benefit… and should my son William depart this life under the age of twenty-seven years … any widow of my said son William….. the residue of my estate to the said John Turner [unmarried son b1789], Sarah [Legg nee Turner] the wife of George Legg and Mary [Mann nee Turner] the wife of the said James Mann ....... I nominate the said Thomas Sadler and James Tupper and William Pratt? as the executors of my estate...."

For an unknown reason Ann Turner nee Rossel left the bulk of her estate in trust to her youngest son William, who was 17 at the time the will was written. Unusually, she specifies that it be kept in trust until he reached the age of 27. Possibly the reason behind this clause in the will, was to ensure that William was settled, perhaps with a wife and family, when he received his inheritance.

41.0 Four children of  GGGGGGP William Turner (1754-1800) & Ann Rossel (1757-1814)

41.1  GGGGGM Sarah Turner 1781-1849

Sarah was baptised by parents William and Ann Turner in Jun 1781 at Chiddingfold.

Baptisms Chiddingfold 1781

Two Sarah Turners were baptised twelve miles from Farnham at Chiddingfold in 1781. Chiddingfold was just three miles from Grayswood, seven from Peper Harrow and twelve from Farnham. The first Sarah was born about Jun 1781 to William and Ann Turner and second child around July to Richard and Mary Turner. I am guessing that the former was our Sarah.

GGGGGGM Sarah Turner was born to William & Ann Turner nee Rossel (1757-1814) and baptised at Chiddingfold in Jun 1781. She was named after her grandmother on her father's side (Sarah Turner nee Shepherd). She would have grown up in Chiddington on the family property, but fell pregnant in late 1802. The father of the child was probably a local lad, and most likely George Legg 25, the man she would marry a few months after the birth of her baby. Sarah's first child GGGGM Sarah Leah Turner was baptised as illegitimate (no father listed) and born in Farnham in 1803 when Sarah was 22. Sarah may have moved 12 miles to Farnham (where other 'Turner relatives' resided) to give birth, once she found out that she was pregnant, to minimise the 'scandal'.

George Legg fathered three more of Sarah's children on his farm at Peper Harrow. The latter three were all baptised at the local church, St Nicholas. For more about Sarah's married life with George Legg b1777 and their family see 44.1 and 45.0.

41.2 Mary Turner (1787-1833) & James Mann
Mary was baptised by parents William and Ann Turner on 3 Dec 1787 at Chiddingfold.

Marriages Chiddingfold 1808: James Mann married Mary Turner 4 Sep 1808

Mary Turner 21 married James Mann 33 at Chiddingfold on 4 Sep 1808. Witnesses at the marriage were William Peake (husband of aunt Hannah Rossel) and Mary Luff (future wife of brother John Turner). All parties signed the marriage registration except James Mann, who made his mark. The marriage allegation document was signed by Thomas Rossell.

The following year Mary gave birth to her first child, James Mann b1809, in Chiddingfold. Within the next few years the couple had moved a few miles to Haslemere, where they had three more children; Mary Ann Mann 1814, Frederick Mann 1818 and Elizabeth Mann 1819. Mary Mann nee Turner was 32 when she gave birth to her last known child. In 1814 Mary's widowed mother, GGGGGGM Ann Turner nee Rossel died, and in her will left Mary and her husband James Mann the sum of 250 pounds.

From 1919 to 1827 James Mann was listed in the Tax records as occupying land in Haslemere that belonged to James Sadler.

Burials Haslemere 1833: Mary Mann 19 Feb 1833 aged 46 years (b1787)

Mary Mann nee Turner died at the age of 46 in 1833 at home in Haslemere, and was buried there on 19 Feb 1833.

1841 Census Haslemere: James Mann with daughter-in-law  and grandchildren living at Claymore Hill Haslemere

In 1841 James Mann senior, widowed farmer, was living at Claymore Hill, Haslemere with his daughter-in-law Elizabeth Mann nee Bryant 30 and children Mary Mann 5, Rosette Mann 4, Catherine Mann 3 and James Mann 1. The family was well off and had three servants to help run the household.

Mary's husband, James Mann, died at the age of 71 in Haslemere and was buried 13 Jun 1845 (b1775)

41.2a Four Children of James Mann & Mary Turner

i) James Mann (1809-1861) & Elizabeth Ann Bryant
James was baptised by James Mann and Mary Turner on 24 Apr 1809 at Chiddingfold. He lived with his parents helping run the family farm.

Marriages Haselmere 1833: James Mann  of Haslemere married Elizabeth Ann Bryant 17 May 1833

On 17 May 1833, James Mann of Haslemere 24 (b1809) married Elizabeth Ann Bryant who was also in her twenties. The wedding took place at Wonersh, 12 miles from Haslemere. One of the witness was Mary Lickfold nee Mann who had married the year before (1832). All parties signed their names. Four children were born to the couple during the next eight years. They were Mary Mann 5, Rosette Mann 4, Catherine Mann 3 and James Turner Mann 1840.

James' whereabouts is unknown in 1841, but his wife and children were living with his widowed father James Mann b1775 on Claymore Farm. In 1844, James' grandmother's cousin, William Raswell b1795, left £25 to his "relative James Mann the younger, farmer of Claymore Hill near Haslemere". In 1851 James was living at Claymore Hill Farm with wife Elizabeth and their four children and two employees.

1861 Census Holdfast farm, Hazlemere; Elizabeth Mann farmer's wife farming 250 acres employing 6 men & 7 boys

In 1861 Elizabeth and son James Turner Mann 20 (b1840) were farming the 250 acre Holdfast Farm and had two servants to help run the household. The whereabouts of husband James is unknown.

Haslemere: In Memory of James Mann died 18 Aug 1861 aged 52 & Elizabeth Ann Mann d16 Nov 1861 aged 51

James Mann and wife Elizabeth Mann nee Bryant both died in their early fifties and were buried together at Haslemere in 1861.

ii) Mary Ann Mann (1814-1897) & William Lickfold

Mary Ann was baptised on 28 Dec 1814 at Haslemere by parents James and Mary Mann nee Turner.

Marriages Haslemere 1832

At the young age of 18, on 27 Sep 1832, Mary Ann Mann married William Lickfold at Haslemere. Witnesses were Mary Lickfold and George Chalcraft. In 1844, Mary's grandmother's cousin, William Raswell b1795, left £25 to his "relative, [Mary] Ann the wife of William Lickfold [married 1832], child of my late niece Mary Mann deceased".

Burials Hambledon 1897

Mary Ann Lickfold nee Turner 79 (really 82) died in 1897 and was buried at Hambledon on 14 Oct 1897.

iii) Frederick Mann (1818-1832)

Frederick was baptised on the 25 Jan b1818 at Haslemere but died at the age of 15 in 1832. There were no known children.

iv) Elizabeth Mann (1819-1819)

Elizabeth was baptised in Haslemere on 17 Jan 1819 by her parents James and Mary Mann nee Turner, but died three days later on 20 Jan 1819.

41.3 John Turner (1789-1848) & Two wives

Baptisms Chiddingfold 1789

John Turner was baptised by his parents William and Ann Turner nee Rossel on 12 Jun 1789. He was named after his grandfather on his father's side. Sadly John's father died in 1800, when John was only 11.

Marriages Chiddingfold 1811

At the age of 21, John Turner yeoman, married local girl and cousin Mary Luff 27 (b1784) at Chiddingfold on 3 Jan 1811. Mary was the daughter of John's aunt Elizabeth Luff nee Raswell. Witnesses were William Raswell [cousin; son of mother's brother John Raswell] and Harriet Andrews [cousin; daughter of mother's sister, Mary Andrews nee Raswell]. There were no known children born to Mary Turner nee Luff.

Mary Turner nee Luff died three years after her marriage at the age of 30, and was buried in Chiddingfold on 1 Jan 1814. A few weeks later, John's widowed mother, GGGGGGM Ann Turner nee Rossel died, and in her will left John the sum of £50. For an unknown reason his mother left the bulk of her estate in trust to her youngest son William, who was only 14 at the time the will was written.

Marriages London 1816

John Turner married again two years after his first wife's death. On 12 Feb 1816 John widower married Elizabeth Ann Pennington (b1792) at St Giles in London. Two of Elizabeth's siblings were witnesses. John and Elizabeth Ann Turner nee Pennington had a family consisting of seven children; Mary Pennington Turner 1817-1869, John Frederick Turner 1819-1892, William Henry Turner 1823, Percival Pennington Turner 1824-1824, Amelia Turner 1829, Elizabeth Turner b1833 and Thomas Willard Turner 1835.

Their first child was Mary Pennington Turner baptised 18 Apr 1817 at Chiddingfold. The next three children were also baptised there. The family must have moved to Hambledon in the late 1820's because that is where the next three children were born.

Baptisms Hambledon 1835: Thomas Willard Turner baptised by John and Elizabeth Ann Turner, farmer

At the baptisms of his children, John Turner was usually listed as a yeoman or farmer. However,farming may have not been profitable in the 1830's, because John and Elizabeth Ann uprooted their family and moved 29 miles to Sunbury in Midddlesex, where John became a butcher.

1841 Census Thames St, Sunbury, Middlesex

By 1841 John Turner 49 (really 51) had settled in Sunbury, Middlesex with wife Elizabeth 46. His occupation was butcher (like his brother William) and the family were living in Thames St with three of their children; Amelia Turner 11, Harriet Turner 8 and Thomas Turner 5. None of the family had been born in Middlesex. In 1844 John's cousin William Raswell b1795 left £25 to his relative John Turner of Sunbury, Middlesex, butcher.

Probate granted for the will of John Turner d1848

John Turner 59 died 12 Dec 1848 at Sunbury. Son William Henry Turner and wife Elizabeth Ann Turner nee Pennington were listed as executors of the will. The following year, eldest daughter Mary Pennington Turner 30, married her cousin Henry Wakefield Pennington. Her father was listed as John Turner, gentleman, and her sister Amelia was a witness. In 1851 daughter Amelia was living with her uncle Joseph Pennington and his family in Lambeth. Elizabeth Ann Turner nee Pennington died in 1863 in Sunbury and was buried with her husband.

41.4 William Turner (1797-1872)

Baptisms Chiddingfold 1797

William Turner was baptised by his parents William and Ann Turner nee Rossel on 6 Apr 1797. He was named after his father and grandfather on his mother's side. Sadly William's father died in 1800, when William was still a toddler. Then in 1814, when William was 17, his widowed mother died, leaving William an orphan. In her will, his mother left the bulk of her estate in trust to William, only leaving a nominal amount to her eldest son John. Unusually, she specifies that William's inheritance be kept in trust until William reached the age of 27 (until 1824)

NOTE: William Turner did not marry Sarah Grayson of Capel b1796 in 1818. The 1851 census indicates that that William had been born in Rudgewick Sussex. Our William did not appear in the 1841 census.

1851 Census Elstead

In 1851 William 54 was listed as unmarried and living in nearby Elstead, lodging with the Chitty family. He indicated he was born in Chittingfold in 1797 and was working as a butcher. A decade later, things were much the same, but 64 year old William (still unmarried) was a retired butcher, living in the same location.

1871 Census Hambledon

By 1871, William Turner 73 was in need of care, and was living as a pauper in the Hambledon Workhouse (6 miles from Elstead). He was listed as a widower, but this was likely an error, because in all earlier censuses he indicated that he was unmarried. William Turner died in Hambledon the following year aged 75. There were no known children.

This last paragraph may not be correct. Although it has the right age and location, the description of 'widower and pauper' does raise doubt. William came from a well off family, but he may have been placed in the workhouse so he could receive palliative care. The fact that he died the following year, supports that contention.

Rossel/Rosell/Roswell/Raswell Family

This family spelt its surname in many different ways, but fortunately there are a large number of documents that link them to each other. By and large, family members were well off, often having servants, owning and leasing properties to others and leaving substantial amounts in wills to their extended families. Quite a few did not marry and had no known children. Although a few died as infants, many died in early adulthood; women often as a result of childbirth, but also men from unknown causes.

42.0 GGGGGGGP William Rossel (c1732-1784) & Mary Boxall (1734-1781)
The origins of William Rossel are not known with certainty. He was possibly born after the marriage of  his parents, William Rossel and Elizabeth Mackrell on 4 Dec 1732 at Chiddingfold, but no baptism record has been found.

Baptisms Chiddingfold 1834: Mary Daughter of Henry Boxall baptised Dec 12

Mary Boxall was baptised at Chiddingfold on 12 Dec 1734, by her parents GGGGGGGP Henry and Mary Boxall. She was named after her mother, and her brother Richard was named after his grandfather.

Marriages Chiddingfold 1755: Wlliam Rossel married Mary Boxall 24 Apr 1755

William Rosell married Mary Boxall 21 in her home town on 24 Apr 1755. All parties signed their names and the witnesses were probably Mary's father Henry, and sister Sarah Boxall.

William and Mary Rossel nee Boxall had eight known children. Sarah Rossel 1755-1846, GGGGGGM Ann Rossel 1757-1814, Elizabeth Rossel 1758, William Rossel 1761-1850, John Rossel 1767, Hannah Rossel 1772-1865 and James Rossel 1774. All were baptised in Chiddingfold. Another child (confirmed in William's will) was Mary Rossell, probably born in 1763. Mary Rossel nee Boxall was forty when she had her last child in 1774.

Surrey Poll Book 1775

In 1774 and 1775 the Poll book listed William Rossel as a freeholder, who occupied his land himself. This may have been William senior or junior.

The last Will of William Rossel of Chiddingfold written 3 May 1783

GGGGGGGF William Rossel died in his fifties in 1784, and was buried at Chiddingfold. He left a detailed will, which shows he was well off financially. It also confirms the names of seven of his children, who were alive in 1783, when the will was written, Below is an edited version of the will.

"I do hereby give and devise all my stock in trade and household goods to my loving wife Mary Rossel to enable her to continue in business till my son James shall attain the age of 21 years … I give and bequeath to my eldest son William Rossel the house and premises I now live in …. I give and bequeath to my son John Rossel my two tenements in the manor of Comb B? in the occupation of Elizabeth Ead widow of Edward Ead and James Holding Barber …. I give and bequeath to my son James Rossel my house and premises at Cat? lately purchased off ???? and now in the occupation of Abraham Pigot [aka. Picket]. I give and bequeath to my daughter Elizabeth Rossel ten pounds and all the residue .. of my personal estate with the stock in trade and household goods after my son James arrives at the age of 21 to be equally divided among my children aforementioned … my son John, my son James, my daughter Sarah Kingshott, my daughter Elizabeth, my daughter Mary and my daughter Hannah ….. Signed William Rossel, 3 May 1783."

The will confirms that seven of William's children were still alive in 1783 when the will was written; (their ages in 1783 are listed in brackets) namely; William (22), John (16), James (9), Sarah (28), Elizabeth (25), Mary (20) and Hannah (12). The children were listed by gender in order of their birth years. GGGGGGM Ann Turner nee Rossel b1757 (married 1781) was not mentioned. Baptism records confirm Ann was born to William Rossel in 1757 and was not adopted.

There are four possibilities as to why she was not mentioned in the will:-

1) She was estranged from the family (unlikely);
2) She was actually Mary Ann Turner and went by the name Mary in later life (unlikely, as she was married with the Christian name Ann;
3) For an unknown reason Ann was left out when the will was written (This is the explanation I favour) OR
4) She died prior to 1783 and was not GGGGGGM Ann Rossel, who later married William Turner (unlikely as the records do not reflect this),

If the latter was true, GGGGGGM Ann Rossel who died in 1814, must have been born to a different Rossel family. Her father may have been William Rossel shoemaker, who was buried in Chiddingfold, 7 Aug 1775.

Burials Chiddingfold 1813: Mary Raswell of Chiddingfold buried Nov the 16th aged 79

GGGGGGGM Mary Raswell nee Boxall died at the age of 79 and was buried in Chiddingfold on 16 Nov 1813.

42.1 GGGGGGGGP Henry Boxall (1704-1780) & Mary Wakeford (1712-1781)

Baptisms Chiddingfold 1704

Henry Boxall was baptised by his father Richard Boxall, a farmer, on 3 May 1704 at Chiddingfold.

GGGGGGGGM Mary Wakeford was baptised by her father John Wakeford at Chiddingfold on 4 Jan 1712. She would have known her husband all her life.

Marriages Chiddingfold 1834: Henry Boxall & Mary Wakeford married Jun 25

At the age of 30, Henry Boxall married Mary Wakeford 22 at Chiddingfold on 25 Jun 1834. Within six months their first baby had arrived, who they named Mary after her mother. Baby GGGGGGGM Mary Boxall was baptised on 12 Dec 1734. At least four other children were born in the family; Richard Boxall 1736, Sarah Boxall, Hannah Boxall 1741 and Betty Boxall 1744.

Burials Chiddingfold 1780: Henry Boxall was buried on 28 May 1780

GGGGGGGGF Henry Boxall died at the age of 76 and was buried at Chiddingfold on 28 May 1780. He left a detailed will, which includes names of members of his family who were alive in 1780.

Burials Chiddingfold 1781: Mary Boxall died and were buried the year after her husband died

GGGGGGGGM Mary Boxall nee Wakeford died in 1781, the year after her husband died and was buried with him at Chiddingfold.

Will of Henry Boxall (1704-1780) Edited extracts

Last Will ... of Henry Boxall 1780. The will was proved Proved 27 July 1780

"Last Will & Testament of me Henry Boxall of the parish of Chiddingfold, farmer.....I give… to my dear wife Mary Boxall … during her life one annual sum of yearly rent charges of 35 pounds of lawful money of Great Britain …. to my sons-in-law John Lucas of the parish of Chiddingfold, farmer, William Roswell of the same parish, tailor, and William Matthews of the same parish, farmer; and to my friend George Entiknapp of the Parish of Godalming farmer …. To my said son in laws John Lucas and Sarah his wife…. William Matthews and Hannah his wife…. William Roswell and Mary his wife…. The remaining part to my daughter Betty Boxall… to my daughters Sarah Lucas, Mary Roswell and Hannah Matthews...Signed 29 May 1780 with the mark of Henry Boxall."

The people mentioned in the will were:-

# GGGGGGGGM Mary Boxall nee Wakefield, wife of Henry Boxall. She died later that year.
# John Lucas husband of Henry's daughter Sarah Boxall (1738-1808) Married in 1760
# GGGGGGGF William Roswell, husband of Henry's daughter Mary Boxall b1834
# William Matthews, husband of Henry's daughter Hannah Boxall b1741 (Married 1767)
# Betty Boxall, unmarried daughter of Henry b1744

43.0 Eight Children of GGGGGGGP William Rossel (c1727-1780) & Mary Boxall (1734-1813)

43.1 Sarah Rossel (1755-1819) & William Kingshott

Baptisms Chiddingfold: Sarah Rossel was baptised by her father William Rossel on 26 Jul 1755

Sarah Rosell was baptised at Chiddingfold by her father William Roswell on 26 Jul 1755, just three months after her parents were married.

Marriages Chiddingfold 1777: 26 Jun; William Kingshott married Sarah Roswell

Sarah Rosell 21 married William Kingshott at Chiddingfold on 26 Jun 1777. Sarah gave birth to two known children; William Kingshott 1778 and Elizabeth Kingshott 1792. In 1784 Sarah Kingshott nee Roswell received an inheritance from her father's will. Sarah's husband probably died in 1795 and was buried in Chiddingfold on 11 Jun 1795.

Burials Chiddingfold 1819: Sarah Kingshott buried 22 Nov 1819 aged 60 (really 64)

Sarah Kingshott nee Rossel may have died at the age of 60 (really 64) in 1819. If so, she was buried on 22 Nov 1819 at Chiddingfold or 20 Dec 1800.

43.2 GGGGGGP William Turner (1754-1800) & Ann Rossel (1757-1814)

Baptisms Chiddingfold: Ann Rossel daughter of  William Rossel was baptised Jan 21 1757

GGGGGGM Ann Rossel (Russell) was baptised by her father William Rossel on 21 Jan 1757 at Chiddingfold. As Ann grew up in the same hamlet as her future husband, they would have known each other all their lives.

At the age 24, Ann Rossel (Russell) 24, married William Turner 26 in Chiddingfold on 27 Feb 1781. All parties signed their names. GGGGGGM Ann gave birth to the couple's first baby a few months later. In all, there were four known children; GGGGGM Sarah Turner was baptised in Jun 1781 followed by Mary Turner b3 Dec 1787-1833, John Turner b12 Jun 1789 and William Turner 6 Apr 1797.

In 1784 Ann Turner nee Rosell's father died. In his very detailed will he listed all his children, but DID NOT mention daughter Ann. However, in her brother William's will, he mentioned "my nephew William Turner, the son of my sister Ann Turner [nee Rossel] deceased". (See below) Ann Turner nee Rossel died at the age of 57 and was buried at Chiddingfold on 17 Feb 1814. For more information about her married life see 40.2.

43.3 Elizabeth Rossel (1758-1812) & Richard Luff (1748-1813)

Baptisms Chiddingfold: Elizabeth Rossel daughter of  William Rossel was baptised Sep 21, 1758

Elizabeth Rosell was baptised at Chiddingfold by her father William Roswell on 21 Sep 1758.

Marriages Chiddingfold 1783: Richard Luff married Elizabeth Roswell 30 Oct 1783

At the age of 25, Elizabeth married widowed wheelwright Richard Luff at Chiddingfold on 30 Oct 1783. Witnesses were John Evans and William Turner. All parties signed the registration.
In 1784 at the age of 26, Elizabeth received an inheritance from her father's will. Elizabeth and Richard had two daughters Sarah Luff b1781 and Mary Luff (1784-1814). Both were baptised at Chiddingfold.

Elizabeth's daughter Mary Luff, married her cousin John Turner, the son of Mary's aunt GGGGGGM Ann Turner nee Roswell (see 41.3) in 1811. Elizabeth's other daughter, Sarah Luff, married George Chennel in 1808. Witnesses were William Raswell and sister Mary Luff. All parties signed their names.

Richard Luff worked in Chiddingfold as a wheelwright for most of his life and was listed in various documents.

Burials Chiddingfold 1812: Elizabeth Luff nee Raswell aged 54 was buried at Chiddingfold on 4 Dec 1812

Elizabeth Luff nee Raswell died at the age of 54 and was buried at Chiddingfold on 4 Dec 1812
Richard Luff died the following year in 1813 at the age of 65 and was buried with his wife at Chiddingfold. Richard's will was written on 3 Jan 1812, prior to his wife's death.

Burials Chiddingfold 1813: Richard Luff 65 buried 23 Aug 1813

Beneficiaries mentioned in Richard Luff's will, which is very hard to read, included:-
# daughter Sarah, wife of George Chennel
# daughter Mary, wife of John Turner
# wife Elizabeth Luff nee Raswell [died 1812]

Richard Luff appointed his brother-in-law William Raswell b1761 shopkeeper, James Tupper and his own wife to be executors of his will. The will was dated 3 Jan 1812 and proved 24 Sep 1813. One of the witnesses was William Peake, brother-in-law (husband of Hannah Raswell)

43.4 William Rossel/Raswell (1761-1843)

Baptisms Chiddingfold: William Rossel son of  William Rossel was baptised Feb 18, 1761

William Rosell was baptised at Chiddingfold by his father GGGGGGGF William Roswell on 10 Feb 1761. In most records he writes his surname as "Raswell". In 1784 at the age of 23, William received an inheritance from his father's will. William Raswell was a witness at several marriages including several of his younger siblings and other people as well. However, he does not seem to have married himself.

William was listed as a shopkeeper in Chiddingfold in 1798 and 1811 and as a grocer from 1813 until his death in 1843. In 1841 (and probably prior to that) he was living with his widowed nephew William Raswell b1795 (see 1841 census below).

Burials Chiddingfold: William Raswell 83 was buried on 8 Sep 1843

William Raswell died at the age of 83 and was buried on 8 Sep 1843 in Chiddingfold.

The Will of William Raswell (1761-1843)

Surrey Wills 1843: The last Will & testament of William Raswell gentleman

In his very detailed (and hard to read) will, William left many specific instructions to be carried out by his executor. He also listed particular relatives and other people as beneficiaries, who are summarised below.
1. Nephew William Raswell [b1795 son of brother John Raswell]
2. Nephew William Turner the son of my sister Ann Turner [nee Raswell] deceased
3. Niece Sarah the wife of George Legg deceased [d1842; [GGGGGM Sarah was the daughter of sister GGGGGGM Ann Turner nee Raswell]
4. Nephew George James Raswell son of my late brother James Raswell
5. Niece Mary Elizabeth wife of George Oliver the younger [daughter of brother James Raswell]
6. Niece Sarah [nee Raswell] the wife of Joseph Ford; daughter of my said brother James Raswell deceased
7. Sarah Legg [niece], James Mann [b1809] and Ann the wife of William Lickfold [married 1832] children of my late niece Mary Mann deceased. [The two surviving children of Mary Turner (daughter of sister Ann Turner nee Rossel) who married James Mann in 1808 and died in 1833]
8. Children of my nephew John Turner, son of my late sister Ann Turner [nee Raswell d1814] deceased living at my ...
9. Housekeeper Sarah Cooper [also listed in nephew William Raswell's will the following year.]

Signed by William 7 Feb 1743. In a codicil …. two thousand pounds for the equal benefit of Sarah Legg, James Mann, Ann Lickfold and all the .. of my nephew John Turner … for the equal benefit of the said James Mann, Ann Lickfold and all the children respectively of the said Sarah Legg, John Turner and ????? to be vested.... the said Sarah Legg, John Turner living at my …. Signed William Raswell 20 Feb 1843.

43.5 Mary Rossell (c1763-1849) & William Andrews
No baptism record has been found for Mary. The baptismal record for Chiddingfold has several badly damaged pages and 1763 or 1769 are the most likely years for the birth of Mary Rossel. In 1784 Mary Rosell at the age of 26, received an inheritance from her father's will.

Marriages Chiddingfold 1792: William Andrews widower of Godalming married Mary Rosell (Roswell) 24 Jul 1792

When she was in her late twenties in 1792, Mary married widower William Andrews at Chiddingfold. William was from nearby Godalming. Witnesses were GGGGGGF William Turner and William and Hannah Raswell (Rossell). William and Hannah were Mary's sibling and William Turner was married to Mary's older sister GGGGGGM Ann Rosell b1757. All parties signed the registration.

Baptisms Godalming 1793

The only known child born to the couple was Harriet Andrews baptised 11 Aug 1793 at Godalming.
William Andrews of High St Godalming may have died there in 1830 aged 70. Mary Andrews nee  Rosell may have died in Godalming in 1849 at the age of 85 (b1764) . If this is correct, Mary Andrews, a 69 (really 78) year old widow of independant means, was living in Church St Godalming in 1841.

43.6 John Rossel (1767-1797) & Ann Unknown (?-1801)

Baptisms Chiddingfold: John Rossel son of  William Rossel was baptised late 1767

John Rosell was baptised at Chiddingfold by his father William Roswell in late 1767. In 1784 at the age of 17, John received an inheritance from his father's will.

NOTE: There is a record for a John Roswell marrying Jane Coles at Chiddingfold on 25 Feb 1787. One of the witnesses was William Kingshott (married to John's sister, Sarah Raswell). However this is likely to be a different John Roswell, as later records indicate our John was married to a woman named Ann. Also John would have been only 19 years old at the time of this marriage and men were usually older than that when they married. This John was probably a shoemaker, who died in 1795. His wife Jane Roswell nee Coles died in 1798 in Chiddingfold.

Our John seems to have married an unknown woman named Ann, probably in the 1790's but no marriage registration has been found. She was listed as John's wife on their son's baptism record and John's will. John and Ann Raswell had their only son, named William Raswell, baptised in Chiddingfold on 21 Mar 1795. He was named after his uncle and grandfather. John was listed as a licenced victualler in Chiddingfold in 1796.

Burials Chiddingfold 1797: John Raswell burried 18 Jul 1797

John Raswell b1767 died at the young age of 30 and was buried at Chiddingfold on 18 Jul 1797. Like his brothers, John left a detailed will. Extracts are below.

The Will of John Raswell b1767

In his will John Raswell acknowledged that he had an illegitimate son named James Kingshott, and should his legitimate son William die before he reached 21, James Kingshott was to be a beneficiary of the will. James was most likely born early in John's marriage, but no baptism record has been found.

In 1797 John Raswell left a will, which listed him as a victualler in Chiddingfold. His executors were brother William Raswell, timber merchant, and friend John Tewsley schoolmaster. The main beneficiaries of the will were wife Ann Raswell nee Unknown and son William Raswell b1795, and his inheritance was to be received by his son after he reached the age of 21. Wife Ann Raswell nee Unknown possibly died in 1801.

43.6a William Raswell (1795-1844) & Sarah Chalcraft

Baptisms Chiddingfold 1795: William son of John & Ann Raswell baptised 21 Mar 1795

William Raswell was baptised at Chiddingfold by his parents John and Ann Raswell on 21 Mar 1795. He was named after his uncle and grandfather. William's father died when he was only two years old, and William was the main beneficiary of his father's will. His inheritance was to be held in trust for him until he reached the age of 21 in 1816

Marriages Chiddingfold 1826: William Raswell maried Sarah Chalcraft on 14 Dec 1826

At the age of 31 William Raswell married Sarah Chalcraft 22 at Chiddingfold on 14 Dec 1826. Witnesses were George Oliver [married to cousin Mary Elizabeth Raswell] and Jane Chalcraft. All parties signed the registration.

Burials Chiddingfold 1827: Sarah Raswell nee Chalcraft aged 23 was buried 18 Apr 1827

Sarah Raswell died four months later at the young age of 23 and was buried at Chiddingfold.

Surrey Land Tax Records 1804

The Surrey land Tax record of 1804 shows that William Raswell senior owned land that he occupied, his brother James Raswell owned property that was leased to William Enticknap and William Raswell b1795 owned land that was held in trust until he reach 21.

Surrey Tax Records 1819.

William Raswell senior and William Raswell minor (junior) both owned land Once he reached the age of 21, William Raswell junior b1795 owned land which was leased to William Tanner for all the early 1800's. His land was near that of his uncle William Raswell b1761

1841 Census Chiddingfold: William Raswell b 1795 living with uncle William Raswell b1761

In 1841, 45 year old single man William Raswell b1795, was living with his 81 year old uncle William Raswell b1761, who was a grocer. Also living in the house were two female servants Sarah Cooper 55 and Ann Frogley 39. Servant Sarah Cooper was one of the beneficiaries mention in William's will (see below).

Burials Chiddingfold 1844: William Raswell age 49 was buried on 10 May 1844.

William Raswell b1795 died at the age of 49 and was buried at Chiddingfold on 10 May 1844

The Will of William Raswell (1795-1844)
William Raswell left a will signed and dated 16 Apr 1844 and  proved 14 May 1845
Edited version of William's Raswell's will; "I William Raswell gentleman of Chiddingfold give and bequeath to:-
a) my housekeeper Sarah Cooper my two tenements, gardens and premises in Chiddingfold during her life.[see 1841 census above]
b) after her death I give the same unto my relatives Emma Oliver a daughter of George Oliver of Shotter Mill near Haslemere and Robert Shotter, a son of Henry Shotter yeoman, of Eashing, Godalming.
c) James Kingshott of Petworth, plumber the sum of 100 pounds. [Brother John Raswell's illegitimate son]
d) my relatives John Turner of Sunbury, Middlesex, butcher, and James Mann the younger, farmer of Claymore Hill near Haslemere the sum of 25 pounds each. [Both cousins; John Turner was the son of Williams's aunt GGGGGGM Ann Turner and James Mann was the husband of cousin Mary Turner].
e) Henry Shotter and George Legg of Peper Harrow farmer; all the rest of my real estate and personal estate to hold in trust and divide the same equally among my friends and relatives; Sarah Legg aforesaid widow, Harriet the wife of Henry Shotter, George James Raswell wheelwright of Chiddingfold, Sarah the wife of Joseph Ford carpenter of Godalming and Mary the wife of George Oliver".

43.7 Hannah Rossel (1771-1831) & William Peake

Baptisms Chiddingfold: Hannah Rossel daughter of  William Rossel was baptised Sep 1772

Hannah Rosell was baptised at Chiddingfold by her father William Roswell in Sep 1772. In 1784 at the age of 14, Hannah received an inheritance from her father's will.

Marriages Chiddingfold 1807: William Peake married Hannah Roswell on 5 Apr 1807

At the age of 36 Hannah married William Peake 32 a wheelwright on 5 Apr 1807. Witnesses were niece Mary Luff and brother William Raswell. All parties signed their names. William Peake was listed as a wheelwright working in Chiddingfold for most of the first half of the 1800's.

Surrey land Tax 1830

William Peake owned several parcels of land, most of which he leased to others in 1830

Burials Chiddingfold 1831: Hannah Peake 59 buried on 14 Mar

Hannah Peake nee Roswell died at the age of 59 and was buried at Chiddingfold on 14 Mar 1831.

Burials Chiddingfold 1857: William Peake 82, buried 19 Jan 1857

William Peake died at the age of 82 and was buried with his wife at Chiddingfold on 19 Jan 1857 (b1775) William and Hannah had no known children, but William left a will naming his nephew as his main beneficiary.

Last Will & Testament of William Peake of Chiddingfold

Will of William Peake, signed 22 Aug 1853 and proved 13 Mar 1857.
Main beneficiaries:
# Nephew George James Raswell "now residing with me, £4000"
# Sarah Ford sister of George James Raswell £100 pounds
# Charles John Woods of Godalming solicitor £100 (appointed as an executor)
# Caroline Ribble housekeeper

43.8 James Rossel (1774-1812) & Sarah Paige (1778-?)

Baptisms Chiddingfold: James Rossel son of  William Rossel was baptised Nov 31 1774

James Rossell was baptised at Chiddingfold by his father William Rossell on 31 Nov 1774. James' father died when he was only ten years old, and James was a beneficiary of his father's will.

Marriages Chiddingfold 1803: James Raswell married Sarah Paige 17 Oct 1803

At the age of 29, James Raswell married Sarah Paige (b1778, Godalming) on 17 Oct 1803. One of the witnesses at the wedding was brother William Raswell. James and Sarah had their first child named Mary Raswell born in Chiddingfold in 1804. Their next three children; George James Raswell 1809, William Raswell 1810 and Sarah Raswell 1812 were all baptised in Godalming.

Burials Chiddingfold 1812

Sadly James Raswell died at the age of 37 and was buried in Chiddingfold on 6 Nov 1812. Unlike his brothers, James did not leave a will which suggests that his death may have been as a result of an accident. Sarah Raswell nee Paige survived at least to 1833 when she gave consent for her daughter Sarah's marriage.

43.8a Four Children of James Raswell (1774-1812) & Sarah Paige

Of the four children, the two sons seem to have died without marrying. However both daughters married and had large families.

i)Mary Raswell (1804-1868) & George Oliver (1802-1893

Mary was born at Chiddingfold in 1804, three months after her parent's marriage on 4 Jan 1804, but was not baptised until 5 Jan 1806 at Chiddingfold. When Mary was eight, her father died leaving the family without a breadwinner.

At the age of 20 on 24 Oct 1824, Mary married a miller named George Oliver in Up Waltham. Sussex, which was about 15 miles from her home town. The couple settled in Haslemere (8 miles from Chiddingfold) and started a family. In all George and Mary Elizabeth Oliver had seven children; Emma Oliver (Knowles) 1826-1893, Ann Oliver 1830-?, George Oliver (Scovell) 1831-1892, William C. Oliver 1834-1899, James Oliver 1836-1889, Mary Oliver 1842-? and Edward John Oliver 1842-1881.

In 1844 William Raswell died and left a bequest to "my relative Emma Oliver a daughter of George Oliver of Shotter Mill near Haslemere". George Oliver was married to William's cousin Mary Elizabeth Raswell.

1851 Census Linchmere

By 1851 George 49 and Mary Elizabeth Oliver nee Roswell 48 were living in Linchmere, Haslemere with their three sons and a servant.

1861 Census Thursley

A decade later George 59 retired miller and Mary Elizabeth Oliver nee Roswell 58 were living in Thursley and two of their sons were now millers. The family was living in Olivers Lane!

Burials Chiddingfold 1868

 Mary Elizabeth Oliver died on 8 May 1868 at Anstead Brook, Chiddingfold. Her death was unexpected and a coroner investigated the circumstances and wrote a report about it. It was probably for this reason that probate for her will was not granted until six years later!

Probate Grant for the will of Mary Elizaebth Oliver nee Roswell

 Probate was finally granted to Mary's husband George Oliver on 17 Dec 1874.

1871 Census Chiddingfold

By 1871 widower George Oliver 68 was a farmer of 28 acres in Chiddingfold living with his unmarried son Edward 28 and unmarried brother-in-law George James Raswell 61, an annuuitant and boarder. In 1881 George Oliver 78 was living in Anstead House with widowed daughter-in-law (head of the household and proprietor of house) Mary Oliver nee Lickfield 39 and her unmarried sister Ann Lickfield 50. By 1891 George 88 had moved into the village and was living in Chiddingfold St with housekeeper Ellen Lickford 59, unmarried housekeeper (related to husband of Mary Ann Mann).

Probate for the will of George Oliver granted 1894

George Oliver of Bridge Cottage, Chiddingfold, aged 90, died on 28 Sep 1893. Below is an early photo of Oliver's Mill.

ii) George James Raswell (1809-1873)
George was baptised in 1809 at Godalming. He does not seem to have married and had no known children. George was a beneficiary of  the wills of his cousin William Raswell b1795 and the will of his uncle by marriage William Peake. In the will he was described as a wheelwright. In 1871 George was a 61 year old unmarried annuitant boarding with widower George Oliver, 68 year old farmer, and his son Edward J Oliver 28 at Anstead Brook.
George James Raswell 64 died at Anstead Brook, Chiddingfold on 9 Jun 1873. Probate on his will was granted to Walter Lickfield. One of George's nephews had married Mary Lickford, and Walter was probably her brother.

iii) William Raswell (1810-1830)
William was baptised in 1810 at Godalming. He died at the young age of 20 and did not marry or have children.

iv) Sarah Raswell (1812-?) & Joseph Ford
Sarah was baptised in Godalming on 11 Oct 1812, just a few weeks before her father died. At some point she met Joseph Ford from Godalming and they developed a relationship. In 1833 they decided to get married and a formal agreement was made between Joseph and Sarah's mother.
There was a note at the bottom of the marriage Allegation written by Joseph Ford. In it Joseph "made oath that the consent of Sarah Raswell the natural and lawful mother of the said Sarah Raswell, the father being dead and she being a guardian of her person lawfully appointed....."
At the age of 21 Sarah married Joseph Ford 21 at Haslemere on 1 Jun 1833. All parties signed their names. Sarah was a beneficiary of  William Peake's will (her uncle by marriage), in 1857. Joseph and Sarah Ford had nine children; William Ford 1834-?, George Page Ford 1835-?, Augustus Raswell Ford 1837-1840, Walter Ford 1839-?, Sarah Jane Ford 1841-?, Frederick Ford1843-?, Ellen Ford 1845-?, Sydney Ford 1847-? and Emily Fanny Ford 1849-? All were born in Godalming.
In 1843 "Sarah the wife of Joseph Ford; daughter of my said brother James Raswell deceased", received an inheritance from her uncle William Raswell b1761.

1851 Census Godalming: Joesph & Sarah Ford & 6 children and one servant

In 1851 Joseph Ford 39 year old builder was living with Sarah 39 and their family on Holloway Hill Godalming. Sadly Joseph died later that year on 16 Nov at the age of 39. His place of death was listed as Rock Place, Godalming.

44.0 GGGGGM Sarah Turner (1781-1849)

GGGGGM Sarah Turner was born to William and Ann Turner and baptised in July 1781. See 41.1 for information about her early life.

44.1 GGGGGM Sarah Turner (1781-1849) & George Legg (1777-1842)
In the early 1800's Sarah Turner had a relationship with an unknown man, which resulted in her falling pregnant at the age of 21. She gave birth to a daughter (GGGGM Sarah Leah Turner) out of wedlock at Farnham in 1803. It would have been hard for a young single woman to care and provide for a baby alone. During that same year Sarah was in a relationship with George Legg b1777, who may have been the father of her first baby.

Marriages 1803 St Mary's, Chiddingfold: George Legg of the Parish of Peper Harrow married Sarah Turner of this Parish

On 20 Jun 1803, George Legg 26 of Peper Harrow married GGGGGM Sarah Turner 22 at Chiddingfold. George and Sarah both signed the marriage registration. One of the witnesses was James Tupper, who was George's brother-in-law (husband of sister Elizabeth Legg b1774, see above). In fact George Legg may have met Sarah Turner, when he was on a visit to his sister Elizabeth and her husband James Tupper, who had been living in Chiddingfold since 1798. It may have been them that introduced George to his future bride, who was born in Chiddingfold in 1781.

The birth of Sarah's first child in 1803 (out of wedlock) was followed by three more babies after her marriage; William Legg 1804-1872, Mary Legg 1805-1859 and George Legg 1812-c1885. Sarah was 31 when she had her last known child.

George's signature on the 1802 Peper Harrow Tax Assessment

Land Tax Peper Harrow, 1805 Assessment. George Legg junior was Assessor for the Peper Harrow area.

From 1802 to 1805 George Legg b1777 was given the position of Tax Assessor and Collector. As the signatures are the same for assessments before and after his father's death, we know that it was George b1777 who was filling this role. After his father George Legg c1740 died in 1804, George b1777 took over the Legg family farm at Peper Harrow.

Land Tax Peper Harrow 1805

One of George's tasks was to assess and collect tax for his own property, owned by William Smith. George continued to pay tax on this property up until 1821, but in that year the owner of the land was changed to Richard Smyth. Then in 1826, another owner named Thomas Smyth, took over as owner. As the amount of tax did not change in all those years (at least up until 1830), it was most likely the same farm.

After Sarah Turner married George Legg she would have met members of the extended Legg family, including GGGGGP Thomas and Elizabeth Moss nee Legg, who were married in 1792 and moved to Farnham a few years later. Sarah's daughter GGGGM Sarah Leah Turner b1803 would have then met her future husband GGGGF George Moss.

Baptisms Peper Harrow 1804: William Legg son of George & Sarah Legg was born 20 July & privately baptised 7 Aug

George b1777 and Sarah Legg nee Turner's first baby born at Peper Harrow was William Legg; born on 20 Jul 1804 and privately baptised on 7 Aug 1804. Just over one year later Sarah gave birth to a baby girl named Mary Legg who was born on 3 Sep 1805. Sarah Legg nee Turner gave birth to her last child, George Legg, on 13 May, 1812. All of these three children were baptised at St Nicholas, Peper Harrow. 

1841 Census Peper Harrow: George Legg 65, Sarah Legg nee Turner  60 were living on Royal Common with 2 children

In 1841 George Legg 65 year old farmer (b1776) was living at Royal Common, Peper Harrow with wife Sarah 60 (b1781?) and sons William Legg 34 (b1807) and George Legg 26 (b1815). Living next door was William Turner, a 40 year old male servant. Daughter Mary had married in 1826.

Burials Peper Harrow 1842: George Legg of Ryall (Royal) Farm was buried 23 Jun 1842 aged 65

The following year in 1842 George Legg died at the age of  65 (b1777) and was buried at Peper Harrow on 23 Jun 1842. 

Last Will & testament of George Legg b1777 of Royal Farm, Peper Harrow. Probate granted 2 Oct 1842

Probate for George Legg's will was granted on 22 Oct 1842. Wife Sarah Legg nee Turner was appointed joint executrix with a friend of the family. Under the terms of the will, all of George's estate was to be divided equally between his wife Sarah and his two sons William Legg 1804 and George Legg 1812. The value of the estate was given as less than £2000. There was no mention of any daughters. Daughter Mary Watkinson nee Legg died in 1859 and possible daughter Sarah Leah Moss nee Turner died in 1885.

A Congregational mission chapel was founded at Elstead in October 1834. From 1834-1845 worship was conducted in a room hired from the British School. A new chapel was built in 1845 with the money lent by Mrs. Sarah Legg. "Mrs Legg was a widow, of Peperharow and she lent the £550 at 4% per annum". I believe that Mrs Sarah Legg was actually GGGGGM Sarah Legg nee Turner b1781, the mother of GGGGM Sarah Leah Moss nee Turner. The Moss family were heavily involved in the chapel at Elstead.

Burials Peper Harrow 1849: Sarah Legg nee Turner was buried 18 Jan 1849 aged 68

GGGGGM Sarah Legg nee Turner died at the age of 68, seven years after her husband in 1849. She was buried next to him at St Nicholas Peper Harrow on 18 Jan 1849. Her age at death corresponds with her year of birth.

45.0 Four Children of GGGGGM Sarah Turner (1781-1849)
Sarah's first child Sarah Leah Turner was illegitimate and born in 1803 when Sarah was 22. Her baby was possibly fathered by George Legg b1777, who Sarah married a few months after giving birth. George Legg fathered three more of Sarah's children on his farm at Peper Harrow. The latter three were all baptised at the local church, St Nicholas.

45.1 GGGGM Sarah Leah Turner (1803-1885

Baptisms St Andrews Farnham: 22 Apr 1803

GGGGM Sarah Leah Turner was baptised in Farnham on the 22 April 1803. The birth record lists GGGGM Sarah as the illegitimate daughter of her mother GGGGGM Sarah Turner. Her mother married George Legg later that year and the family moved to George Legg's farm at Peper Harrow, where Sarah gained three siblings.

Sarah Leah Turner met and married George Moss at Farnham in 1822 and they had ten children. See Part 4 for more information about GGGGP George and Sarah Leah Moss nee Turner's married life.

45.2 William Legg (1804-1864)

Baptisms Peper Harrow 1804: William Legg son of George & Sarah Legg nee Turner was born 27 Jul 1804

William Legg was the first son born to George and GGGGGM Sarah Legg. He grew up on the family farm and in 1841 was living there with his mother and father and brother George Legg.

After their father's death in 1842, the Legg siblings took over the family farm. Living there in 1851 were unmarried brothers William Legg 45 (really 46) and George Legg 38, who were listed as farmers. Also in the house was their married sister Mary Watkinson nee Legg 44, housekeeper and her two children Sarah Watkinson 20 and George Watkinson 16. The family must have been well off because there were also four resident servants.

NOTE: Living next door at Royal Common was William Legg 56 year old carpenter (b1795 Elstead) and his wife Elizabeth Legg nee Jardine 53 and their six children. (See below)

In 1861 William Legg (b1804) 56 year old farmer was still running Royal Farm on Royal Common with brother George 48. The farm was 220 acres and employed 7 men. Also living on the farm was niece, Sarah Watkinson 28, who worked as a housekeeper. All three were unmarried and three servants helped run the house. Still living next door was William Legg 65 year old carpenter (b1795 Elstead) and his daughter Mary Ann Legg 38.

UK Probate 1864

William Legg 60 died on 1 Jun 1864 at his Farm Royal home in Peper Harrow.Executors of his will were brother George Legg, farmer and nephew Joseph Watkinson, grocer.

NOTE: There was another William Legg living at Peper Harrow for most of the above William's life; in fact they lived on adjacent farms at Royal Common. According to successive censuses, this other William Legg, was a carpenter with a wife named Elizabeth and was born around 1796 at Elstead. However there were two William Leggs born around that time in Elstead; William b1799 to George and Elizabeth Legg and William b1794 to George and Sarah Legg. The latter record fits later records best. (See 36.4a for more information about William Legg b1794 carpenter and Elizabeth Jardine.

45.3 Mary Legg (1805-1859) & Joseph Watkinson

Baptisms Peper Harrow 1805: Mary Legg daughter of George & Sarah Legg was born 3 Sep 1805

Mary was born to George and Sarah Legg nee Turner on 3 Sep 1805 at Peper Harrow. She grew up on the family farm, but seems to have moved to London before she was 21.

Marriages St Giles Camberwell: Joseph Watkinson of Elstead married Mary Legg of the Parish of St Giles on 5 Dec 1826

At the age of 21 Mary Legg married Joseph Watkinson  on 5 Dec 1826 at St Giles, Southwark, London. Mary was "of this parish". Census records indicate that Mary had a baby named Mary Legg Watkinson in 1826 prior to her marriage. However baby Mary, and a sister named Sarah were not baptised until 4 Apr 1831 at Wonersh. Mary had a son named Joseph Watkinson who was baptised on 6 Mar 1829 at Wonersh. No baptism records have been found for the fourth and fifth children born to the couple; Lucy Watkinson was born in 1833 and George Watkinson in 1835. Baptism records list Joseph Watkinson as a miller, mealman and farmer. maru was only 30 when she had her last child and as Mary's husband Joseph does not appear in any further records he may have died in the late 1830's.

1841 Census Peper Harrow: William Turner, Mary Watkinson and her 5 children.

In 1841, Mary Watkinson nee Turner 40 (really 35), a female servant, was living on Royal Common, Peper Harrow, with her uncle William Turner 40 (really 44) male servant. Five of her children were living with her, but her husband Joseph was not listed (presumably deceased). Mary was living next to her parents and brothers.

After her father's death in 1842, Mary's two brothers took over the family farm. Living there in 1851 were unmarried brothers William Legg 45 and George Legg 38, who were listed as farmers. Also in the house was their married sister Mary Watkinson nee Legg 44, housekeeper and two of her younger children, Sarah Watkinson 20 and George Watkinson 16. The family must have been well off because there were also four resident servants. By this time, daughter Lucy Watkinson 18, was lodging in St Bury. She was working as a school teacher. In 1881 47 year old widowed Lucy Leach nee Watkinson was living in Kent with her uncle George Legg 68 year old retired farmer. Lucy Leach nee Watkinson was an assistant teacher.

Probate 1862: The Will of Mary Watkinson nee Legg

Mary Watkinson nee Legg died 25 Jun 1859 at Peper Harrow. Probate was granted to her brother George Legg farmer of Peper Harrow on 22 Oct.

45.4 George Legg (1812-c1885)

Baptisms, Peper Harrow 1812: George Legg son of George & Sarah Legg nee Turner was born 13 May 1812

George Legg was the last child born to George and Sarah Legg. He grew up on the family farm and in 1841 was living there with his mother and father and brother William Legg. After their father's death in 1842, the Legg siblings took over the family farm. Living there in 1851 were unmarried brothers William Legg 45 and George Legg 38, who were listed as farmers. Also in the house was their married sister Mary Watkinson nee Legg 44, housekeeper, her two children Sarah Watkinson 20 and George Watkinson 16. The family must have been well off because there were also four resident servants.

1861 Census Pepper Harrow: Two Legg families living on Royal Common; the bottom 3 are Sarah's children

In 1861 George 48 was still running Royal Farm on Royal Common with brother William 56. The farm was 220 acres and employed 7 men. Also living on the farm was niece Sarah Watkinson 28 who worked as a housekeeper. All three were unmarried and three servants helped run the house. Still living next door was William Legg 65 year old carpenter (b1796 Elstead) and his daughter Mary Ann Legg 38. Brother William died in 1864 leaving George to manage the farm alone.

1871 census Dorking, Surrey: George Legg 60 was retired and living with his nephew George Watkinson 

By 1871 George had retired. His was listed as 60, but really 58 and was living with his nephew George Watkinson 36 year old inn keeper and his family (son of his sister Mary Watkinson nee Legg).

By 1881 George 68 was listed as a retired farmer and was living with his 47 year old widowed niece Lucy in Kent and her family. Lucy Leach nee Watkinson was an assistant teacher. George Legg's date of death is unknown and there were no known children. As he was not mentioned on the 1891 census he probably died in the 1880's.

46.0 Diagram of the Legg, Turner & Rossel Family Tree

47.0 - 49.0 For Future use