Smithin - Stoulton & Chuch Lench

This is a summary of the information we have discovered about the branches of our family that lived in Stoulton and Church Lench in Worcestershire in the 19th century. These are descendants of two sons of Benjamin Smithin (1791-1861) and Elizabeth.

All present day Smithins are descendants of Joseph Smithin (1761-1807) and Margaret Rickets who lived and farmed in Birlingham,Worcestershire. Joseph and Margaret had four sons. Joseph the eldest inherited the family farms and estate at Birlingham and married Anne Proctor; their descendants lived in Birlingham until about 1890; there are several modern descendants of this branch. Thomas did not marry and lived all his life in Birlingham. William may have married late in life but we do not think he had any children.

The second son Benjamin became a prosperous farmer and farmed at Sheriff's Lench not far from Birlingham. 

Children of Benjamin and Elizabeth

Benjamin and Elizabeth had four children

Benjamin (1821-1905). The son of Benjamin and Elizabeth. He was christened at Stoulton on the 11th May 1821.[1] He married Olivia Phipps at St John the Baptist Crowle (near Droitwich) on the 17th May 1849; registered at Droitwich in the June quarter.[2] Olivia, 'of full age' was living at Crowle; her father was Samuel Phipps a farmer. Benjamin was described as a Farmer, residence Sheriff's Lench. The witnesses were Elizabeth Phipps and William Sergeant.[3]

In 1851 Benjamin acted as an Executor of the Will of his uncle Joseph Smithin (1789-1851) at Birlingham.[4] He also acted as one of the Executors of his father's will in 1861.[5]

Benjamin was listed as a Farmer at Sheriff's Lench in Kelly's directory of 1860.[6]

On the 2nd December 1862 Benjamin made an agreement with his brothers to take legal control of their brother John's farm as he was to ill to continue.[7]

John Smithin of Fibden farm in the Parish of Hampton Lovett
Benjamin Smithin of Sherrif's Lench
Joseph Smithin of Wadborough

Whereas the said John Smithin being unable from ill health properly to manage and attend to his Farming business and being desirous of making some provisions for his wife Harriet Smithin and her children hath proposed and agreed to assign to the said Benjamin Smithin and Joseph Smithin his furniture, farming stock and other his personal effects...

Benjamin took an active part in the formation of a 'Chamber of Agriculture for Worcestershire' in 1867; this later became the Royal Agricultural Society of Worcester.

A meeting at the Crown Hotel, Worcester, in May 1867 considered a proposal to form a Chamber of Agriculture for Worcestershire "to watch over all measures affecting the agricultural interests, both in and out of Parliament; to cooperate with the Central Chamber of Agriculture thereon and take such action for the benefit of agriculture as may seem desirable, also to discuss any subject, whether of a local or general nature, bearing on agriculture which shall be approved by the Council". Another meeting later in the month presided over by George Whitaker, Caldwell through resolutions proposed and supported by, Joseph Woodward, Birlingham; B Smithin, Sheriffs Lench; T Trinder, Sandlin and John Lett, Rushcock, approved the contribution and apppointed J Blick, Droitwich, as Secretary. The Chamber by 1870 had more than 500 members.[8]

At the 1881 census Benjamin was farming 138 acres at Cullabine Farm, Dumbleton, Gloucestershire (near Evesham).[9]

1881 Census - Cullabine Farm Dumbleton

Smithin Benjamin, age 59, Farmer of 138 acres, born Pershore Holy Cross, Head of household
Smithin Benjamin A, age 23, Farmer's son, born Church Lench, son of Benjamin Smithin
Smithin Emma T, age 24, Farmer's daughter, born Church Lench, daughter of Benjamin Smithin
Smithin Olivia M, age 27, Farmer's daughter, born Church Lench, daughter of Benjamin Smithin
Smithin Samuel P, age 25, Farmer's son, born Church Lench, son of Benjamin Smithin
Esther Gardiner, age 15, housemaid domestic, born Church Lench, servant to Benjamin Smithin
Mary Woodward, age 26, cook domestic, born Wormington Gloucs, servant to Benjamin Smithin

Olivia, aged 55, was away visiting visiting her sister Elizabeth Smith in Salford Priors.[10]

Benjamin was described in Kelly's directory in 1900 as a principal landowner in Eckington. He also appears in the directories of  1892, 1898, 1900 and 1904 as a Farmer at Sherriff's Lench.[11]

1892 - Eckington. William Hanford Flood esq. D.L. J.P. who is the Lord of the Manor, Mr Benjamin Smithin of Sheriff's Lench, Elijah Snowsell, and Richard Allen esq. area the principal landowners.

Sheriff's Lench - Benjamin Smithin farmer

In 1890 Benjamin provided a statement for his cousin Joseph Smithin confirming Joseph's ownership of some land in Birlingham; this was when the Smithin Estate in Birlingham was being sold due to debts.[12]

I Benjamin Smithin of Sheriff's Lench in the County of Worcester, Farmer, do solemnly and sincerely declare as follows:

That I am 69 years of age and the eldest son of Benjamin Smithin late of Wadborough in the County of Worcester, Farmer who was a brother of Joseph Smithin late of Birlingham in the Country of Worcestser, Farmer, the father of the late Joseph Smithin also of Birlingham aforesaid under whose will the pieces or parcels of land called respectively Berwick Orchard, Longford Close, and Withy Walk situate at Birlingham aforesaid have recently been sold to the Trustees for the purposes of the Settled Land Act 1882, of the will of Robert Woodward Esquire, deceased.

That I have been well acquainted with the said pieces or parcel of land since my earliest recollection.

And that during such period they have been the property of or been in the possession of Joseph Smithin the Father, Joseph Smithin the son, and Charlotte Smithin sucessively namely of the said Joseph Smithin the father from my earliest recollection to the time of his death in the year 18-- of the said Joseph Smithin the son from that period to the time of his death in the year 1875 and of the said Charlotte Smithin from that period up to the present time.

And that such respective persons have during such respective periods as I verily believe from my knowledge of the property been in the free and undisputed possession and enjoyment or receipt of the rents and profits of the said pieces or parcels aforesaid.

And I have never heard of any title or claim being set up to the possession of the said pieces or parcels of land or the rents and profits thereof adverse to the said Joseph Smithin the father, Joseph Smithin the son, or Charlotte Smithin or any other of them.

And I make this solemn declaration conscientiously believing the same to be by virtue of the Statutory Declaration Action 1835.

Benjamin sent a letter to Joseph's solicitor.

Sheriff's Lench, November 13th 1890
To Mr L Martin Esq.

Dear Martin,

I make no charge for valuations of Birlingham, the property bought of Revd. Luden 1829 is too long ago for me to be able to give any information about it.

Very Truly Yours
B Smithin

Olivia died on the 15th March 1891; registered at Evesham.[13]

At the 1891 census Benjamin was living at the Manor House, Church Lench.[14]

Benjamin Smithin, Head, Widower, Farmer, age 69, born Pershore
Samuel P Smithin, Son, age 34, born Sherriff's Lench
Eleanor Tovey, Housekeeper,  age 20, born Church Lench
Jane Halling, Servant, age 20, Domestic Servant, born Gloucestershire

The farm at Sherrif's Lench was called Manor Farm. A obituary of one his sons briefly describes Benjamin.

The deceased was the second son of the late Mr Benjamin Smithin of Sherriff's Lench, one of the largest and most prominent agriculturists in the county, who farmed between 600 and 700 acres of land in the Lenches and at Dumbleton, and who for many years was Vice President of the Worcestershire Board of Agriculture.

Benjamin made a will on the 23rd March 1897. His two sons were appointed as Executors and there were legacies for his daughters, £2,700 to Olivia Marian Smithin and £2,200 to Emma Florence Smithin. The two legacies came into effect on the 11th June 1913 and the12th October 1918 respectively.

At the 1901 census Benjamin was still living at Manor House, Sheriff's Lench with the family.[15]

Benjamin Smithin, head, widower, aged 79, born Pershore, Farmer
Samuel Phipps Smithin, son, single, aged 45, born Church Lench, Farmer's son
Benjamin Abell Smithin, son, single aged 43, born Church Lench, Farmer's son
Olivia Marianne Smithin, daughter, aged 47, single, born Church Lench
Eleanor Tovey, Housekeeper, aged 38, single, born Church Lench, Housekeeper Domestic
Ellen Booth, servant, aged 18, single, born Dormston, single

Benjamin died on the 21st January 1905.[16] There is a memorial in Church Lench.

In Loving Memory of
Benjamin Smithin
of Sheriff's Lench
who died Jan 21st 1905 aged 83 years
also Olivia
wife of the above
who died March 15th 1891
aged 65

Come unto me, all ye that labour
and are heavy laden and I will give you rest

Probate was granted to his sons Samuel Phipps Smithin and Benjamin Abel Smithin farmers. Effects £13,541 3s 1d.[17]

Joseph (1828-1872). Of Wadborough. The son of Benjamin and Elizabeth. He was christened on the 15th April 1828.[18] At the 1851 census he was living at home at Wadborough House, Wadborough.[19]

Benjamin Smithin , Head, Married,  aged 60, Farmer 500 acres employing 20 labourers, born Birlingham.
Elizabeth Smithin , wife, married,  aged 55, Farmer's wife, born Wadborough
Joseph Smithin, son, unmarried, born Wadborough

Joseph's brothers and sister were all married and had moved away. He was about 23. Joseph married Elizabeth Andrews on the 27th May 1854, at Severn Stoke; registered at Upton on Severn in the June quarter.[20] Joseph and Elizabeth had nine children.

Elizabeth was christened on 10th April 1830 and her father was Thomas Andrews and her mother was Eleanor Eliza.

Joseph's father died in 1861 and he took over the running of Wadborough Farm. He was active in the Royal Agricultural Society of Worcester.[21] The first trials of a double engine steam cultivator (an early tractor and plough) were held at Wadborough farm in 1863.

On the latter ground, and at Wadborough Farm occupied by Joseph Smithin, the steam cultivator trials were carried out.

This refers to an Agricultural show staged by the Royal Agricultural Society of Worcestershire in 1863.

In August 1863 an influential meeting of the landlords and tenants at the Crown Hotel Worcester, discussed the formation of a company with a capital of £3,500 for providing double-engine steam cultivators and hiring them out on an acreage basis; trials were held on the farms of George Pitcher, Nunney Wood Farm, and Joseph Smithin Wadborough

However the proposal had fallen through by 1864. Joseph was listed as a Farmer at Wadborough in 1860 in Kelly's directory.[22]

At the 1871 census Joseph and family were living at Wadborough Farm. The four youngest children were still at home. The farm was 500 acres and he employed 14 men, 4 boys and 5 women. Also living at the farm were a Foreman, Bailiff, General servant and a Dairy maid.[23]

Joseph died on the 27th June 1872, aged 44.[24] Probate was granted on the 7th September 1872. His effects were valued at under £18,000. There is a memorial at Pershore Abbey.[25]

In memory of Joseph Smithin
of Wadborough Park Farm
who died June 27 1872 ages 46 years

There is some confusion between Wadborough Farm and Wadborough Park Farm as today they are two separate farms.

Ellizabeth carried on running the farm and was listed in Kelly's directory of 1880 as a farmer at Wadborough.[26]

At the 1881 census she was living at Wadborough Farm.[27]

Smithen Elizabeth, age 51, widow, Farmer of 1050 acres, born Severn Stoke, head of household
Smithin Joseph Ernest, age 23, unmarried, Assistant Manager, born Holy Cross, son of Elizabeth Smithen
Henry Horniblow, age 35, Farm Manager, unmarried, born Earls Croome, cousin to Elizabeth Smithen
Sarah Bateman, age 22, unmarried, housemaid, born Birlingham, servant to Elizabeth Smithen
Louisa Stanton, age 21, unmarried, domestic maid (ag)

Henry Horniblow was probably a relative as Elizabeth's sister in law was Mary Horniblow (Smithin) who lived at Ripple. The younger children must have been away at school.

At the 1891 census Elizabeth was still running the farm.[28]

Elizabeth Smithin, Head, Widow, age 61, Farmer, born Severn Stoke
Freeman Smithin, son, single, age 29, Farm manager, unemployed, born Wadborough
Frank Smithin, son, single, age 23, born Wadborough
Ada Margaret Smithin, daughter, single, age 20, born Wadborough
Mary Horniblow, visitor, Widow, age 48, living on her own means, born Wadborough
Mary Burn, servant, single, age 20, General servant domestic, born South Wales
Fanny Searle?, servant,  single, age 16, General servant domestic, born Herefordshire

Mary Horniblow may be Elizabeth's sister in law in which case her age should be 68 not 48.

Elizabeth died, aged 70, at Hope House, Martley on the 23rd September 1900.[29] [30] Probate was granted on the 12th December 1872 to her son  James Andrews and son in law John Davis. Her effects were valued at £927 10s. 8d. Hope house was the farm of her son in law John Davis.

There is a memorial at Peshore Abbey where she is buried just outside the West door next to her husband.[31]

In loving memory of
Elizabeth his widow
whoe died Sep 23rd 1900
age 70 years

Mary (1823-1893). The daughter of Benjamin and Elizabeth. She was christened on the 10th April 1823 at Stoulton.[32] She married William Thorneloe Horniblow in 1843; registered at Pershore in the December quarter.[33] They had a son William (b.1844).[34] William senior farmed at Bow Farm Ripple.

In 1861 William was an executor for the Will of Mary's father Benjamin.[35]

Next I give and bequeath unto my Son-in-law William Thorneloe Horniblow of the Bow Farm in the Parish of Ripple in the said County of Worcester aforesaid, and my son Benjamin Smithin of Wadborough aforesaid, Yeoman, their Executors, administrators and assigns all my ready money, securities for money, household goods and furniture, plate, china, glass, linen, live and dead farming stock, crops, implements in husbandry, debts due and owing to me, and all other the rest and residue of my personal estate and effects whatsoever upon the several Trusts and to and for the ends, intents, and purposes and subject to the powers provisions and declarations hereinafter expressed and declared concerning the same .....

By 1881 the farm was described as 680 acres employing 15 men and 3 boys and was being farmed by their son William and his wife Susanna.[36] There was also another William Thorneloe Horniblow christened at Ripple on the 28th July 1874 which was probably a grandson of William Horniblow and Mary Smithin.

Mary was probably the Mary Horniblow who died, aged 70, in 1893; registered at Cheltenham in the June quarter.[37]

John (1828-1867). John and his descendants are covered in the document: Smithin Family - Leeds.

Children of Benjamin and Olivia Phipps c.1855

Olivia Smithin (1851-1917). Olivia Marianne. The daughter of Benjamin and Olivia. She was born at Church Lench in 1851; registered in the September quarter.[38]

At the 1881 census aged 27 she was living at home at Cullabine Farm, Dumbleton. At the 1901 census, aged 47, she was living at home at Manor House, Church Lench.

She received a legacy on the 11th June 1913 of £2,700 from her father's will (he had died in 1905).

Olivia died in 1917 at Keynsham (near Bristol); registered in the December quarter.[39]

Kate Smithin (1853-1854). Kate Elizabeth. The daughter of Benjamin and Olivia. She was born in 1853; registered at Evesham in the June quarter.[40] She died aged 13 months in 1854.[41] There is a memorial at Sheriff's Lench.

Of such is the Kingdom of Heaven
Kate Elizabeth
Second daughter of
Benjamin & Olivia Smithin
died April 5th 1854 aged 13 months

Samuel Smithin (1855-1934). Samuel Phipps. The son of Benjamin and Olivia. He was born at Church Lench in 1855.[42]

He attended Malvern College from 1869 to 1872.[43]

In School House 4 with the Revd. Estridge
Smithin Samuel Phipps 1869-1872
son of B Smithin, Dumbleton, Evesham, b. 1855
II - Modern II

He worked on the family farms with his father and brother.

At the 1881 census, aged 25, he was living at home at Cullabine Farm, Dumbleton.
At the 1891 census, aged 34, he was living at home at Manor House, Church Lench
At the 1901 census, aged 45, he was living at home at Manor House, Church Lench.

He married Eleanor Nora Tovey on the 7th October 1905, at Church Lench.[44]  There is a silver plated cruet presented to them by the 'work people' of Sherriff's Lench for their wedding.

Presented to
Mr Samuel Phipps Smithin
and Miss Eleanor Nora Tovey
by the Sheriff Lench work people
on the occasion of their marriage 1905

Eleanor had been their Housekeeper since 1891; she was born in Church Lench in about 1871. Her father was Thomas Tovey a farmer in Church Lench.

In about 1906 Samuel and Benjamin sold some land in Eckington.[45]

Conveyance involving SP Smithin and BA Smithin

This is a document which conveys two pieces of land in Eckington called Long Ground to Mr John William Browne for the sum of £515.

Samuel Phipps Smithin of the Parish of Eckington, farmer
Benjamin Abel Smithin of the Parish of Eckington, farmer

They hold the land as tenants in common and each receive half of the £515

The document mentions the will of their father, Benjamin Smithin, made on 23 March 1897. The two sons were appointed as Executors. There were two legacies for the daughters. £2700 to Olivia Marian Smithin and £2200 to Emma Florence Smithin. Benjamin died on 21st January 1905. The two legacies came into effect on 11 June 1913 and 12 October 1918 respectively.

Earlier they had sold land in Eckington (next to this land) called Top Piece to William Bateman.

In Kelly's Directory 1908 Samuel was mentioned as a resident of Nafford, Birlingham.[46]

Samuel attended his brother's funeral in Eckington in 1920.

Samuel was one of two church wardens in 1921 and 1922. He carved the oak credence table, hymn boards, and several other items in the church.[47]

The carved oak credence table is the work of Mr S P Smithin, vicar's warden, as are also the carved hymn-boards, the case for the altar frontals and the screen above it, and the cabinet and bookshelves in the vestry.

Samuel died, aged 78, on the 20th March 1934 at Eckington.[48] Probate was granted on the 3rd July 1934 to his widow Eleanor Smithin. His effects were valued at £9,641 14s. 11d.[49]

An Obituary appeared in Berrow's Worcester Journal.

Death of Mr. S P Smithin

A loss to Eckington

Much regret was expressed in Eckington at the death of Mr Samuel Phipps Smithin, of the Lenches, which took place in the early hours of Tuesday. Mr Smithin was 78 years of age and up to recently was about the village as usual. His father was Mr. Benjamin Smithin, of the Manor Farm, Sheriffs Lench, in the parish of Church Lench, where the late Mr Phipps Smithin formerly resided, and after whom the residence at Eckington is named. Mr Smithin was of a very quiet disposition. He was a staunch Churchman, and had been up to the last, a regular member of the Church Choir. He was appointed Vicar's warden in 1921, which position he held up to his death. He was also a School Manager and member of the Parochial Church Council. The Church contains some very beautiful carving by the late Mr Smithin, among which are the Oak Credence table, the carved hymn boards, the case for altar frontals and screen and the cabinet and book shelves in the vestry. The funeral is fixed for Saturday afternoon at Eckington Parish Church.

Eleanor died, aged 83, in 1953; registered at Pershore in the December quarter.[50]

Emma Smithin (b.1856). Emma Florence. The daughter of Benjamin and Olivia. She was born in Church Lench in 1856; registered at Pershore in the December quarter.[51]

At the 1881 cenus, aged 24, she was living at home at Cullabine farm. Emma married Francis William Smith in 1888; registered at Evesham in the December quarter.[52]

On the 12th October 1918 she received a legacy of £2,200 left to her from her father's will.

Benjamin Smithin (1857-1920). Benjamin Abel. The son of Benjamin and Olivia. He was born in 1857.  He worked on the family farms with his father and brother.

At the 1881 census, aged 23, he was living at home at Cullabine Farm, Dumbleton.

At the 1891 census Cullabine farm was not occupied and Benjamin, aged 33, was a visitor at Bank Farm, Dumbleton.[53]

John Walter Smith, head, widower, age 32, Farmer, born Dumbleton
Benjamin Abel Smithin, visitor,  single, age 33, Farm manager, born Sheriff's Lench
Kate Porter, servant, single, age 39, House Keeper, born Laverton Gloucestershire
Elizabeth Bullingham, servant, single, age 16, Domestic servant (General), born Dumbleton

At the 1901 census, aged 43, he was living at home at Manor House, Church Lench.

In 1905 he acted as an Executor for his father's will and later was a witness on his brother's marriage certificate.

Benjamin married Mary Tovey, age 38, at Church Lench on the 1st March 1906; registered at Evesham in the June quarter.[54] Mary was living at Church Lench and her father was Thomas Tovey a farmer. Mary was probably the sister of Eleanor Tovey who married Benjamin's brother Samuel. The witnesses were William Smith, Lily Tovey and G H Hunt.[55]

Benjamin was listed in Kelly's directory in 1908 as living at The Orchard, Eckington.[56]

Benjamin died, aged 63, on the 10th July 1920; registered at Pershore in the September quarter.[57] There was an obituary in Berrow's Worcester Journal.

Eckington

Death of Mr B A Smithin

The death of Mr Benjamin Abel Smithin of the Lenches Upper End Eckington, occurred with suddeness on Saturday evening. He had been receiving intermittent medical attention for heart touble for the past few months, but as he was considered to be decidedly better, made no complaint, and was also able to superintend his business in quite the usual manner. Shortly before his death the maids saw him walking around the garden, but when Mrs Smithin returned from the village after a brief absence, she was shocked to find him seated dead in his chair in the drawing room. Death was certified by the doctor as from heart failure. The funeral took place in Eckington Cemetery on Wednesday afternoon the day on which Mrs Smithin had arranged for a garden fete to take place at their residence in aid of the funds of the Mother's Union. Canon W Ismay of Newlands Malvern late Rector of Eckington conducted a preliminary service in the Parish Church at which there was a large congregation. The Rector, the Rev. A E Fletcher conducted the last rites at the graveside. Deceased was 63 years of age. The chief mourners were Mr Phipps Smithin, The Orchards, Eckington (brother); Mr J A Smithin of Lloyds Bank Gloucester (cousin), Mr Carlton Rea, Worcester (cousin), Mr F W Smith (brother in law), Mr F Tovey (nephew), Mr J P Smith, Salford (cousin), Mr Hodington, Westmancote, Mr Fred Davis and Mr J W Dee, Woollas Hill, Mr W J Browne, Mr W H Redwood, Mr J Grice, Mr and Mrs Humphries, Mr W Windows, Mrs Parish, Mrs Perkins, Mrs Cross, Miss Almon, Mrs Osbourne, Miss Dando etc. The deceased was the second son of the late Mr Benjamin Smithin of Sherriff's Lench, one of the largest and most prominent agriculturists in the county, who farmed between 600 and 700 acres of land in the Lenches and at Dumbleton, and who for many years was Vice President of the Worcestershire Board of Agriculture. When their father died at Sherriff's Lench about 14 years ago, the two sons, who had been associated with him in business, gave up the farming in that district and went to reside on their inherited estate of two hundred acres at Eckington which they cultivated until the early part of the present year, when they sold the greater part by autction, retaining only their...

Probate was granted to his widow Mary Smithin on the 17th September 1920. His effects were valued at £5,629 0s 1d.[58]

Mary may be the Mary Smithin, aged 79, who died in 1947; registered at Pershore.[59]

Martin Smithin (1859-1860). The son of Benjamin and Olivia. He was born in 1859; registered at Evesham in the December quarter.[60] He died only a few months old; probably in 1860. His death was recorded on the same memorial at Church Lench as his sister Kate.

Martin their third son
died May 1-th 18-- aged -- months

Children of Joseph and Elizabeth Andrews c.1855

Joseph and Elizabeth had nine children

Benjamin (b.1855). The son of Joseph and Elizabeth. He was christened on the 5th April 1855 at Stoulton.[61] [62] He died only a few months old; registered at Pershore in the September quarter.[63]

Elizabeth (b.1856). The daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth. She was christened on the 2nd May 1856 at Stoulton; registered at Pershore in the June quarter.[64] [65] She married John Davis, age 23, a farmer on the 27th October 1880 at Pershore Holy Cross; registered at Pershore in the December quarter.[66]  He was living at Martley; his father was Richard Davis a Farmer. Elizabeth age 24 was living at home at Wadborough. The witnesses were Ellen Smithin her sister and Benjamin Smithin possibly her uncle.[67]

They farmed at Hope Farm, Martley Worcestershire.

At the 1881 census they were at Hope Farm and Elizabeth's sister Ellen was visiting.[68]

John Davis, Head, age 24, born Martley, Farmer of 210 Acres Employing 5 Men & 1 Boy    
Elizabeth Davis, Wife, age 25, born Pershore, Farmers Wife     
Ellen Smithin, Visitor, unmarried, aged 17 born Pershore, Farmers Daughter    
Rhoda Chandler, Servant, age 16, born Silvington, Shropshire, General Servant

Elizabeth was still living in 1927 as she was left a bequest in the will of her brother James.

Joseph (1858-1924). Joseph Ernest. The son of Joseph and Elizabeth. He was christened at Stoulton on the 14th March 1858; registered at Pershore in the March quarter.[69] [70]

At the 1881 census, age 23, he was at home at Wadborough Farm and working as the Assistant Manager. His father had died in 1872. Joseph married Elizabeth Holland, age 28, at Christ Church Malvern on the 14th February 1885; registered at Upton in the March quarter.[71] Elizabeth was living in the parish of Christ Church Malvern; her father was Thomas Holland a Dealer. Joseph was 27 and described as a farmer living at Holy Cross Pershore. The witnesses were George Boulton and Annie Holland.[72]

Joseph was listed as the Farmer at Windmill Hill Farm, Stoulton in Kelly's directory of 1892 and in 1900, 1904 and 1908.[73]

At the 1901 census they were living at Windmill Hill, Stoulton.[74]

Joseph E Smithin, head, age 43, born Holy Cross, Pershore, Farmer
Elizabeth Smithin, wife, age 44, born Kempsey
Nellie Allam, niece, single, age 15, born Malvern, Help
Annie E Allam, age 4, born Birmingham, visitor
Emily F Bickerstaff, single, age 15, born Stoulton, General Servant Domestic

In about 1916/17 the tenancy of Windmill hill farm was sold by auction.[75]

19. Pasture field , Hawbridge, tenant Mr J. E. Smithin, Quantity 4a 0r 6p rental £5 5s 0p apportioned,
20. Two pasture Fields, Hawbridge, tenant Mr J. E. Smithin, Quantity 6a 3r 33p rental £8 15s 0p apportioned
50. Windmill hill farm, tenant Mr J. E. Smithin, Quantity 176a 0r 30p rental £149. 10s 0p actual

I can quote lot 19 situated at Haw bridge, near the "bird in hand" Inn let to  Mr J. E. Smithin, with lot 20 on a tenancy -at-will, landlord paying rent - Robert Deloyde

This may have been connected with the death of Joseph's brother Frank as his farm tenancy at Muckenhill was sold at the same time.

Joseph died, aged 66, on the 1st October 1924 and is buried in Stoulton.[76] There is memorial in the churchyard.

In loving memory of
Joseph Ernest
Eldest son of the late Joseph
Smithin of Wadborough
Born Feb 16 1858 died Oct 1 1924
aged 66
Also Eliza wife of the above
died December 11 1927 aged 73
Thy will be done

Although he is referred to as the eldest son this is probably a mistake since Benjamin died as an infant in 1855. Probate was granted to his wife Elizabeth on the 10th November 1924.[77]

Elizabeth is mentioned in the will of her brother in law James Smithin of 19th January 1927. To my sister in law Mrs J Ernest Smithin of Stoulton Worcestershire the sum of one hundred pounds.[78]

Elizabeth died, aged 73, on the 10th December 1927at Stoulton. Probate was granted to Anne Holland spinster. Her effects were valued at £1,768.[79]

James Smithin (1859-1931). James Andrews. The son of Joseph and Elizabeth. He was born in Wadborough in 1859; registered at Pershore in the December quarter.[80]

James was probably educated at Hanley Castle High School, in Hanley Castle, Worcestershire.

He joined the Worcester City and County Banking Company in April 1879 when he was 19. A Board minute book of the bank records a promotion for him on the19th January 1886.[81]

Mr J A Smithin, the 3rd Cashier in Birmingham was appointed Cashier of Gloucester and his salary was increased from £130 to £150 per annum.

The branch was in Cherry Street Birmingham. Worcester City and County Banking eventually became part of Lloyds Bank.

He became the Manager of Lloyds Bank Gloucester in 1890 and held that position until he retired on the 30th September 1920.

At the 1901 census he was living at 38 Eastgate street close to the Bank.

James A Smithin, Head, single, age 31, Bank Manager, born Wadborough
Edward W Holder, married, age 38, ?,  born Cheltenham
Annie Holder, servant, married, aged 37, General servant, born Cheltenham

He later lived at Cooper's Hill, Brockworth, Brockworth. He is mentioned in Gloucester 'Who's Who'.[82]

Smithin, James Andrews was born in Worcestershire and was educated at Hanley Castle in that County; after leaving school he entered the Worcester City and County bank at Birmingham, where he stayed for ten years, subsequently removing to their branch at Gloucester which later was amalgamated with Lloyds bank. He was appointed local manager in 1890; is hon. treasurer of the Bristol and Gloucestershire Archaeological Society, The Gloucestershire Orchestral Society, and of the Gloucestershire Root Fruit and Grain Society. Recreations: Walking and Cycling. Address: Lloyds Bank Eastgate.

James was the Honorary Treasurer of the Bristol & Gloucestershire Archaeological Society from  the 12th July 1909 to the 2nd April 1917. On his retirement from the post there was a note in the journal.[83]

The council have further to record the resignation of the Treasurer Mr J A Smithin who hadhad charge or the Society's financial affairs since 1909 and they desire to express their thanks to him for his services

James attended the funeral of his cousin Benjamin Abel Smithin in Eckington in 1920.

James made a will in 1927.

Will of James Andrews  Smithin  - 19th January 1927.

Probate 13th March 1931.

This is the last Will and Testament of me James Andrews Smithin of Coopers Hill Brockworth in the County of Gloucester. Retired Bank Manager. I appoint my Brothers in law John Davis of Hope House Martley in the County of Worcester Farmer and William Bach of Northampton late manager of Lloyds Bank Limited at Cannock and William Dalton Stone of Lloyds Bank Limited in the city of Gloucester Manager (hereinafter called my Trustees) joint Executors and Trustees of this my and I give and bequeath to each of my Executors and Trustees who shall act as such a legacy or sum of One hundred pounds free of duty.

 I request and direct my Executors to divide my jewellery furniture and houshold effects among such of my relatives and friends as they in their absolute discretion may decide.

 I also give and bequeath the followng legacies free of duty namely to my three sisters Elizabeth Davis, Mary Bach and Ada Margaret Bach the sum of one hundred pounds each. To my sister in law Mrs J Ernest Smithin of Stoulton Worcestershire the sume of one hundred pounds. To my sister in law Mrs Frank Smithin of Stoulton aforesaid the sum of one hundred pounds.

To the Treasurer for the time being of the Glouecstershire Royal Infirmary the sum of two hundred and fifty pounds. The latter sum to be applied for the purposes of such Institution and to my Housekeeer Miss Sollis if in my employ at my decease and not under notice to leave the sum of One hundred pounds.

 I give devise and bequeath all my real and all the rest residue and remainder of my personal estate to my Trustees upon Trust to sell call in and convert into money the same or such part thereof as shall not consist of money and shall with and out of the moneys prodced by such sale calling in and conversion and my ready money pay my funeral and testamentary expenses duties and debts and the legacies bequeathed by this my Will or any codicil hereto.

And shall stand possessed of the residue of the said moneys upon Trust to divide the same unto and equally between my nephews and nieces, being the child of my late brother Frank Smithin and chidren of my late sister Ellen Elisa Nicholls the wife of William Lambert Nicholls of the City of Worcester and the children of my sister Ada Margaret Bach wife of Edward Bach of Far Cotton in the County of Nothampton Farmer and I declare that if any of my said nephews or nieces shall die in my lifetime leaving issue such issue shall take between them the share which his of their respective parent would have taken if the latter had survived me. And I hereby revoke all previous wills made by me.

Witness my hand this 19th day of January One thousand nine hundred and twenty seven. J A SMITHIN.

Signed by the said James Andrews Smithin in our presence and by us in his and each others presence.

Frank Treasure, solicitor Glocester
John A Fossick his clerk.

Elizabeth Davis, Mary Bach and Ada Margaret Bach were his sisters.

James died on the 2nd February 1931 at Barnwood. Gloucester.[84] Barnwood was the second County Asylum so this might indicate senile decay. Probate was granted on the 18th March 1931 to John Davis farmer, William Bach retired bank manager, and William Dalton Stone bank manager. His effects were valued at £15,123 2s 6d. Resworn as £14,281 9s 2d.[85]

There is a memorial at Stoulton.

James Andrew Smithin late of Brookvale Gloucs
2nd son of the late Joseph Smithin of Wadborough
died February 2nd 1931 aged 71
Not as I will but as thou wilt

Freeman Smithin (1861-1914). The son of Joseph and Elizabeth. He was born at Wadborough in 1861; registered at Pershore in the December quarter.[86]

At the 1881 census Freeman was living at High Street, Gomersal, York and described as a CornMiller, either in a job or perhaps on an apprentice scheme.[87]

Henry Broschomb,  Head,  age 32, born Adwalton York, Mechanical Engineers Clerk    
Emma Officer Broschomb, Wife, age 33, born Gainsbro Lincoln
Bertha Parker, Visitor, age 8, born Adwalton, York, Scholar     
Freeman Smithon, Boarder, unmarried, age 20, born Wadborough, Cornmiller    
Harry Wm. Mower, Boarder, unmarried, age 18, born Buckenham Norfolk, Cornmiller    
Arthur Milner,  Boarder, unmarried, age 19, born Barnsley, Cornmiller    

At the 1891 census, age 29,  Freeman was at home at Wadborough Farm, single and unemployed. His profession was listed as Farm Manager.

At the 1901 census he was living at Stoulton Village.[88]

Freeman Smithin, Head, single, age 39, born Holy Cross Pershore, Farmer
Annie Addis, Housekeeper, single age 53, born Herefordshire

In Kelly's directory of 1904 he was listed as a resident of Stoulton, at 'The Court'.[89] In the 1908 Directory he was listed as a Farmer at Boxmoor (? Boxbush Farm). Boxbush farm must have been part of the Estate as Elizabeth (his mother) was listed as the Farmer in 1880.[90]

Freeman died on the 14th March 1914, age 52; registered at Pershore in the March quarter.[91] There is a memorial at Stoulton.

In affectionate remembrance of
Freeman Smithin
Late of Boxbush Farm
Third son of the late
Joseph Smithin
of Wadborough
who died March 14th 1914 aged 52 years
Take ye heed, watch and pray
For ye know not when the time is

Ellen Smithin (b.1863). Ellen Eliza (or Elisa). The daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth. She was born at Wadborough in 1863; registered at Pershore in the September quarter.[92]

At the 1881 census, age 17, she was visiting her sister Elizabeth Davis at Hope Farm, Martley. She married William Lambert Nicholls in 1887; registered at Pershore in the June quarter.[93]

At the 1901 census William and Ellen were living at Cotheridge, near Martley, Worcester.[94]

Great Houden?, Cotheridge, Martley, Worcestershire
William Lambert Nicholls, head, age 30, Farmer, born Worcester Rochford
Ellen Elisa Nicholls, wife, age 27, born Worcester, Pershore
Catherine Ellen, daughter, age 2, born Worcester, Rochford
Madeline, daughter, age 1, born Worcester, Rochford
William Lambert, son, age 9 months, born Worcester, Rochford
Henrietta Asleth, servant, single, age 30, Mother's helper, born Middlesex Stoke Newington
Mary ?, servant, single, age 18, General servant, born Warwick, Hinton
Florence Annie Brash, servant, single, age 13, Nurse domestic, born Worcester, Suckley

Ellen is referred to as 'my late sister' by her brother James in his will of 1927.

Mary Smithin (b.1865). The daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth. She was born at Wadborough in 1865; registered at Pershore in the June quarter.[95] At the 1881 census she was at Boarding School in Worcester.

Clifton House Henwick, Worcester, St. Clement, Worcester - Mary Smithin, Pupil, unmarried, age 15, born  Pershore, Scholar    

Mary married William Bach from Northampton, a bank clerk, on the 11th May 1892 at Peshore Holy Cross; registered at Pershore in the June quarter.[96] William was living at New Milverton (near Leamington Spa) and Mary was resident in Wadborough. William's father was Thomas Bach a farmer. The witnesses were T. Bach, M. Horniblow (Mary's Aunt), Joseph Smithin (probably her brother Joseph Ernest) and Ada Smithin her younger sister.[97]

William was born in Stokesay, Shropshire in about 1863.

At the 1901 census Mary and William were living at Everdon, Northamptonshire. William was described as a Bank Cashier.[98]

Mary was still living in 1927 when she is mentioned in the Will of her brother James. William was the Manager of Lloyds bank in Cannock (Staffordshire); he had died by 1927.

Frank Smithin (1867-1916). The son of Joseph and Elizabeth. He was born at Wadborough in 1867; registered at Pershore in the June quarter.[99]

At the 1881 census he was a boarder at the Abbey School, Tewkesbury.[100]

Smithin Frank, age 13, scholar, born Wadborough, border at Abbey School

At the 1891 census, aged 23, he was at home at Wadborough Farm.

In Kelly's directory for 1900, 1904 and 1908 he is listed as a Farmer at Muckenhill, Stoulton.[101] Muckenhill is at Norton Juxta Kempsey a few miles from Stoulton. It was also known as Mucknell Farm.

At the 1901 census he was living at Hill Farm, Stoulton.[102]

Frank Smithin, head, age 33, single, born Holy Cross, Pershore
Minnie JW Mead, House  Keeper, age 41, married, born Ryde Isle of Wight, Housekeeper Domestic

In 1902 Frank was fined for mistreating a horse.[103]

Frank Smithin, farmer of Norton, was charged with furiously driving a horse and trap in Sidbury. Mr Thomas, an inspector of the SPCA, said the rate at which the defendant turned a corner had been a distinct danger to other traffic and the public. The defendant pleaded that the horse was very young and nervous in town. He was fined one shilling.

Frank married Decima Harriet Eaton in 1904; registered at Upton in the June quarter.[104] Decima was born on the 25th March 1879.

Frank died, aged 49, on the 17th June 1916; registered at Pershore in the June quarter.[105] There is a memorial at Stoulton.

Frank Smithin. June 1916 of Muckenhill in this Parish
aged 49 years
 ….. wife died 1973 age ….. years

Some time after this the farm was put up for sale.[106]

There were two Smithins one was the late Mr Frank Smithin (his reprentives
were dealing with the property and the other was Mr J. E. Smithin these  are the entries:-

6. Muckenhill Farm Whittington, tenant Mr Frank Smithin, Quantity 198a 1r 39p rental £107 15s 0p apportioned

I have no information about the auction but the folder does give an insight as to what the properties looked like it is far to much for me to type out so I can only say that Muckenhill farm must have been of some size as it had a well six bedrooms, servants room, two store rooms, an American range, two furnaces and a few other
things.

After Frank died Decima moved to a house called 'The Mount' in Stoulton. The Mount was used by the army for convalescing soldiers in the 1914-1918 war so the move was probably in 1918/1919. The following article describes something of life at the Mount.[107]

Comings and goings at The Mount

It's a place too which had played a key role in the life of Michael Dowty, the well known local photographer and author of top-selling pictorial books on Worcester past and present, that Age of Steam, and of London. From infancy, he was taken out regularly to 'The Mount' by his parents and relatives who were close friends of the family then living there. Throughout life, Michael has looked on it as his second home, though for the past 10 years it has been very much his first home too ans that of wife Elizabeth and daughters Fiona and Bridget.

They bought the property in 1980, transferring from their previous home in London Road Worcester.

But alas there's now a 'For Sale' sign outside 'The Mount'

The family are planning to move to Cheltenham, which means a big wrench for Michael from a house with a special place in his affections and from South Worcestershire, which has been home to several generations of Dowtys....

During the many years Michael looked on 'The Mount' as his second home, the head of the household was Decima Harriett "Mum" Smithin(maiden name, Eaton), the widow of Frank Smithin who farmed at Norton near Worcester but died at only 49.

In the house with her were her daughter Elizabeth, her sister Ruth Blanche Eaton, a friend Miss Blowden Reece, and from time to time her two other sisters Ethel and Clara.

"There was such a constant coming and going that it was sometimes difficult to know who was visiting", recalls Michael....

"The house always seemed full of people with the Smithins taking every opportunity to have get-togethers, indoors and out, from Christmas parties illuminated by oil lamps and firelight to fancy dress festivities and croqet games on the lawn.

"I spent some of my summer holidays at Stoulton and was also taken there at Christmas when the house was cold but full of personal warmth".

"Mum" Smithin died in 1973 at the age of 93, while her daughter collapsed at the wheel of her car in Worcester in 1980 at the age of 75.

Decima was left a bequest in the Will of her brother in law James Smithin in 1931 (the will was drawn up in 1927).

Decima died on the 12th January 1973 aged 93; registered at Prershore in the March quarter.[108]

Decima and Frank had one daughter Elizabeth Mary.

Elizabeth Smithin (1905-1980). Elizabeth Mary. Known as Bet. The daughter of Frank and Decima. She was born on the 9th May 1905. She did not marry and lived with her mother and an Aunt Ruth Blanche Eaton. She was the Godmother of Michael Dowty (a local historian and photographer). She collapsed whilst driving her car in Worcester and died, aged 75; registered at Worcester in the June quarter.[109]

Ada Smithin (b.1870). Ada Margaret. The daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth. She was born in Wadborough in 1870; registered at Pershore in the June quarter.[110]

At the 1881 census she was away at Boarding School in Kempsey, Worcestershire.[111]

Smithin Ada, age 10, scholar, born Wadborough, border, head of household Elizabeth Edmonds

At the 1891 census, aged 20, she was at home at Wadborough Farm.

Ada married Edward Bach of Far Cotton Northampton in 1897; registered at Pershore in the March quarter.[112] Edward is very probably the brother of William Bach who married Ada's sister Mary.

At the 1901 census Edward, aged 32, born Onibury Shropshire, Farmer was living at Everdon Northamptonshire with children Edward age 3 and Ada age 1.[113]

Ada was still living in 1927; she was left a bequest in the Will of her brother James.

Notes [114]

List of Names

Addis Annie b.1848
Allam Annie E b.1897
Allam Nellie b.1886
Allen Richard fl.1892
Almon Miss fl.1920
Andrews Eleanor Eliza fl.1830
Andrews Thomas fl.1830
Asleth Henrietta b.1871
Bach Ada b.1870
Bach Ada b.1900
Bach Edward b.1897
Bach Edward b.1869
Bach Mary [nee Smithin] b.1865
Bach T. fl.1892
Bach Thomas fl.1890
Bach William bc.1863
Bateman Sarah b.1859
Bickerstaff Emily F b.1886
Blick J fl.1867
Booth Ellen b.1884
Boulton George fl.1880
Brash Florcence Annie b.1888
Broschomb Emma b.1848
Broschomb Henry b.1849
Browne John William fl.1900
Browne W J  Mr. fl.1920
Bullingham Elizabeth b.1875
Burn Mary b.1871
Chandler Rhoda b.1865
Cross Mrs b.1920
Dando Miss b.1920
Davis Elizabeth b.1856
Davis Fred fl.1920
Davis John b.1857
Davis Richard fl.1850
Dee J W fl.1920
Deloyde Robert fl.2000
Dowty Bridget fl.1990
Dowty Elizabeth fl.1990
Dowty Fiona fl.1990
Dowty Michael fl.1990
Eaton Clara fl.1950
Eaton Ethel fl.1950
Eaton Ruth Blanche fl.1950
Fletcher A E fl.1906
Flood William Hanford fl.1892
Fossick John A fl.1927
Gardiner Esther b.1886
Grice J. fl.1920
Halling Jane b.1871
Hodington Mr. fl.1920
Holder Annie b.1864
Holder Edward W b.1863
Holland Annie fl.1880
Holland Thomas fl.1855
Horniblow Henry b.1846
Horniblow Mary [nee Smithin] 1823-1893
Horniblow Susannah fl.1840
Horniblow William Thorneloe fl.1843
Horniblow William b.1874
Horniblow William b.1844
Humphries Mr. fl.1920
Humphries Mrs. fl.1920
Hunt G H fl.1906
Ismay W Canon. fl.1906
Lett John fl.1867
Martin L fl.1890
Mead Minnie JW b.1860
Milner Arthur b.1864
Mower Harry b.1863
Nicholls Catherine Ellen b.1899
Nicholls Ellen Eliza [nee Smithin] b.1863
Nicholls Madeline b.1900
Nicholls William Lambert b.1860
Nicholls William Lambert b.1901
Osbourne Mrs fl.1920
Parish Mrs fl.1920
Parker Bertha b.1873
Perkins Mrs fl.1920
Phipps Elizabeth fl.1850
Phipps Olivia 1826-1891
Phipps Samuel fl.1830
Pitcher George fl.1863
Porter Kate b.1852
Rea Carlton fl.1906
Reece Blowden Miss fl.1950
Redwood W H Mr. fl.1920
Searle Fanny b.1875
Sergeant William fl.1850
Smith F W fl.1906
Smith J P fl.1920
Smith John Walter b.1859
Smith William fl.1906
Smith William fl.1890
Smithin Ada b.1870
Smithin Ann [nee Proctor] 1800-1850
Smithin Benjamin 1791-1861
Smithin Benjamin 1821-1905
Smithin Benjamin bd.1855
Smithin Benjamin Abel 1857-1920
Smithin Decima [nee Eaton]
Smithin Eleanor [nee Tovey] 1860-1953
Smithin Elizabeth 1796-1875
Smithin Elizabeth  b.1830
Smithin Elizabeth [nee Holland] b.1857
Elizabeth Smithin 1905-1980
Smithin Emma b.1856
Smithin Frank 1867-1917
Smithin Freeman 1861-1914
Smithin Decima Harriet [nee Eaton] 1879-1973
Smithin James Andrews 1859-1931
Smithin John 1828-1867
Smithin Joseph 1761-1807
Smithin Joseph 1789-1851
Smithin Joseph 1828-1872
Smithin Joseph Ernest 1858-1924
Smithin Kate Elizabeth 1853-1854
Smithin Margaret [nee Ricketts] 1768-1807
Smithin Martin 1859-1860
Smithin Mary 1894-1947
Smithin Olivia 1851-1917
Smithin Samuel Phipps (1855-1934)
Smithin Thomas 1797-1843
Smithin William 1793-1851
Snowsell Elijah fl.1892
Sollis Miss fl.1927
Stanton Louisa  b.1860
Stone William Dalton fl.1927
Thomas Mr. fl.1902
Tovey F fl.1920
Tovey Lily fl.1906
Tovey Thomas fl.1890
Treasure Frank fl.1927
Trinder T fl.1867
Whitaker George fl.1867
Windows W Mr. fl.1920
Woodward Joseph fl.1867
Woodward Mary b.1855
Woodward Robert fl.1850