Mary Brewer

F, b. say 1656, d. 23 December 1686
FatherFrancis Brewer St Ervan, yeoman b. s 1630
     Mary was born say 1656 at St Ervan, Cornwall, England.
     On 1 January 1682she married Martin Withell of St Merryn in a ceremony at thr parish church, St Merryn, Cornwall, England. The entry in the Register records that Martin Withell son of Roger Withell married Mary daughter of Francis Brewer..1
     Mary died on 23 December 1686 at St Merryn, Cornwall, England.2
     Mary, wife of Martin Withell of St Merrin was buried on 25 December 1686 at St Ervan, Cornwall, England. Mary and Martin had only four years together..3

Family

Martin Withell of St Merryn b. s 1657, d. 1 Feb 1720/21
Children

Citations

  1. [S156] St Merryn Cornwall, Bishop's Transcript.
  2. [S246] St Ervan Cornwall, Parish Register, p. 64.
  3. [S246] St Ervan Cornwall, Parish Register.

Mary Gill Hicks

F, b. say 1662, d. 25 January 1694
     Mary was born say 1662. She married Clere Hicks on 3 June 1682 at St Ervan, Cornwall, England.1,2

Mary Gill Hicks married Martin Withell of St Merryn, son of Roger Withell and Kathren Waren, on 15 September 1688 at St Ervan, Cornwall, England, The register entry records that Martin Withell of the parish of St Merryn and Mary Hix of St Ervan were married on 15 September 1688. Her first husband Clere Hicks had died in 1684, leaving her with a young son George.3 Mary died on 25 January 1694. She was buried on 27 January 1694 at St Ervan, Cornwall, England. THe register noted her as the wife of Martin Withell of St Merrin.4

Family 1

Clere Hicks d. 13 Dec 1684

Family 2

Martin Withell of St Merryn b. s 1657, d. 1 Feb 1720/21
Children

Citations

  1. [S166] Letter from David Talll, Email: e-mail address.
  2. [S14] Phillimore, Marriage Index.
  3. [S247] St Eval, Cornwall, Parish Register, p 48.
  4. [S246] St Ervan Cornwall, Parish Register, p.66.

Jane Leigh

F, b. before 22 February 1665, d. 15 March 1726
FatherJohn Leigh gent b. b 8 Jan 1635, d. b 24 Mar 1688
MotherJane Couch b. s 1636
ChartsAncestors Margaret Wain 12 gen.
     Jane was born before 22 February 1665 at Week St Mary, Cornwall, England.

Jane Leigh married Martin Withell of St Merryn, son of Roger Withell and Kathren Waren, on 17 July 1703 at Week St Mary, Cornwall, England. Martin had been a widower for nearly 10 years and was about 42 years old and Jane was 38. Jane had a considerable inheritance, both in money and for her properties in Brendon and Poundstock which doubtless Martin would have been able to access.
Jane died on 15 March 1726 at St Merryn, Cornwall, England. The title of Mrs Withell used in the burial register indicates the status of Jane as daughter of a gentleman and wife of a yeoman..1,2 She was buried on 17 March 1726 at the parish churchyard, St Merryn, Cornwall, England. The actual place where Jane was buried is no longer known because her tombstone has been moved. We were told by an elderly church historian that some years ago it was placed underneath another tombstone forming a path around the corner of the church building. This lady had kept details of the actual inscription as follows: The body of Jane the wife of Martin Withell who departed this life the 15th day of March ? 1725/6 Triumphant death thy ---------now lay down Yield up thy Triumphs which thy Brave has worn We now in our turn new Triumphs find For they whom Thou didst part again are joined Near to each other here we lie at last No fears possess our souls.1

Family

Martin Withell of St Merryn b. s 1657, d. 1 Feb 1720/21
Child

Citations

  1. [S249] St Merryn, Parish Registers.
  2. [S35] Monumental Inscription.

Mary Withell

F, b. before 5 April 1684
FatherMartin Withell of St Merryn b. s 1657, d. 1 Feb 1720/21
MotherMary Brewer b. s 1656, d. 23 Dec 1686
     Mary was born before 5 April 1684 at St Merryn, Cornwall, England.1 She died at St Merryn, Cornwall, England.

Citations

  1. [S156] St Merryn Cornwall, Bishop's Transcript.

Mary Withell

F, b. before 8 September 1689, d. 11 February 1699
FatherMartin Withell of St Merryn b. s 1657, d. 1 Feb 1720/21
MotherMary Gill Hicks b. s 1662, d. 25 Jan 1694
     Mary was born before 8 September 1689 at St Merryn, Cornwall, England.1 Mary died on 11 February 1699 at St Merryn, Cornwall, England.2,3 She was buried on 12 February 1699. The tombstone for the children of Martin Withell yeoman of St merryn has been placed on the top of a wall near the front of the churchyard..3,2

Citations

  1. [S156] St Merryn Cornwall, Bishop's Transcript.
  2. [S35] Monumental Inscription.
  3. [S249] St Merryn, Parish Registers.

Frances Withell

F, b. before 13 April 1691
FatherMartin Withell of St Merryn b. s 1657, d. 1 Feb 1720/21
MotherMary Gill Hicks b. s 1662, d. 25 Jan 1694
     Frances was born before 13 April 1691 at St Merryn, Cornwall, England.1

She married Thomas Mitchell on 2 March 1717.2 Frances died .

Family

Thomas Mitchell b. 1680
Children

Citations

  1. [S250] St Minver, Parish Register.
  2. [S249] St Merryn, Parish Registers.

Thomas Mitchell

M, b. 1680
     Thomas died . Thomas was born in 1680. He married Frances Withell on 2 March 1717.1

Family

Frances Withell b. b 13 Apr 1691
Children

Citations

  1. [S249] St Merryn, Parish Registers.

Roger Withell

M, b. before 5 May 1693, d. 18 February 1699
FatherMartin Withell of St Merryn b. s 1657, d. 1 Feb 1720/21
MotherMary Gill Hicks b. s 1662, d. 25 Jan 1694
     Roger was born before 5 May 1693 at St Merryn, Cornwall, England.1 Roger died on 18 February 1699 at St Merryn, Cornwall, England.2,1 He was buried on 19 February 1699.1,2

Citations

  1. [S249] St Merryn, Parish Registers.
  2. [S35] Monumental Inscription.

Martin Withell of St Eval

M, b. before 23 January 1705, d. before 28 June 1762
FatherMartin Withell of St Merryn b. s 1657, d. 1 Feb 1720/21
MotherJane Leigh b. b 22 Feb 1665, d. 15 Mar 1726
ChartsAncestors Margaret Wain 12 gen.
     Martin was born before 23 January 1705 at St Merryn, Cornwall, England.1,2

Soon after his father's death, Martin was the subject of a petition to Arundell in respect of New Park, a property which had been bequeathed to his father's first wife Mary Brewer by her father Francis Brewer. Martin sen. had acquired this property when Mary died. Their daughter Elizabeth who married William Guy also died and New Park had been occupied by the remaining children of Martin sen. and his other wives -George Hicks, Thomas Mitchel on behalf of his wife Frances Withell and Martin Withell of St Eval. Stephen Brewer challenged their right to the property, claiming that any right or title after the death of the said Mary should descend to him by remainder survivorship or as her elder or only brother, executor, joint legatee & the only surviving life of the original leasehold.3 He married Mary Dawbins on 28 May 1727 at St Stephens by Saltash, Cornwall, England.4 They resided at Trevethan, at St Eval, Cornwall, England, in 1727. Martin and his half-sister Frances Mitchell were the leaseholders of the Great Tenement of Trevethan. The fee simple was owned by Francis? esq. and the rated value of the Great tenement was 27 pounds. Real value was estimated at 50 pounds. This was one of the highest values in the parish so it must have been quite a large leasehold. The occupiers in 1727 were listed as Martin Withiel and John Cobbledick.

Trevethan was situated at the top of the steep rise on the south side of Porthcothan Bay and on the road towards St. Eval church. The hamlet had dwellings on both sides of the road. The name means place with a little grave.. Martin Withell of St Eval was paid rates for land he held on 25 September 1738 at St Minver, Cornwall, England, The name of the property had been obscured by a fold in the original document. However the previous entry was for property in Tredissick where Martin had a lease.5 He was a churchwarden in 1746 at St Eval, Cornwall, England; Spelling Martyn Withiel.6

He made a will on 24 December 1760 at St Eval, Cornwall, England. IN THE NAME OF GOD AMEN, I, Martin Withell in the parish of Saint Evall and County of Cornwall, yeoman, do make this my last will and testament in manner and form following.
First, I do commend my soul to Almighty God that gave it me, hoping through the merits of my Saviour Jesus Christ
to receive pardon and forgiveness for all my sins done in this life.
Item     I give unto my wife Mary Withell eight pounds a year to be paid her by quarterly payments out of my lands in Trerowe in the parish of Padstow during her natural life.

Item     I give unto my son Martin Withell the sum of one shilling to be paid when demanded. I do likewise give unto my son Martin, if he do still live with my executor and behave in a careful working manner, his diet and wearing apparel during his lifetime also not.

Item     I give unto my daughter Mary Withell One hundred pounds to be paid at the end of two years after my death and her diet as formerly she had until her dowry is paid.

Item     All my Lands and Chattels, goods of all kinds, my Rack Rout and every thing whatsoever that I am possessed of at the time of my death, I do give unto my son John Withell whom I do make my whole and sole executor, he paying my debts and legacies.

IN WITNESS whereof I have put my hand and seal this 24th Day of December in the year of our Lord God 1760 and I do desire my friends ????? Hawton of St. Mawgan and Thomas ????? of this parish to instruct and advise my son John till he be of understanding to manage for himself; he paying them for their care and trouble.
MARTIN WITHELL
In presence of us - HENRY CAYZOR
JAMES HOUGHTON
JOHN HOUGHTON

.7

Martin died before 28 June 1762 at St Eval, Cornwall, England. Martin's will was probated on 28 June 1762 at London, England, Prerogative Court Canterbury before the Right Worshipful Sir Edward Simpson Knight, Doctor of Laws, Master Keeper or Commissary of the prerogative Court of Canterbury lawfully constituted by the oath of John Withell the son of the deceased and sole executor named within the said will to whom Administration was granted of all and singular the goods, chattels and credits of the said deceased having been first sworn by commission duly to administer..7

Family

Mary Dawbins b. b 17 Mar 1703, d. 10 Apr 1796
Marriage*He married Mary Dawbins on 28 May 1727 at St Stephens by Saltash, Cornwall, England.4 
Children

Citations

  1. [S249] St Merryn, Parish Registers.
  2. [S35] Monumental Inscription.
  3. [S62] Prideaux Brune Family Papers, CRO Ref:- AR4/120.
  4. [S251] St Stephens by Saltash,.
  5. [S118] Malcolm McCarthy Collection and correspondence, Egloshorn, Padstow.
  6. [S383] St Eval History, List of Churchwardens p. 125.
  7. [S44] Martin Withell, Will 1762.

Mary Dawbins

F, b. before 17 March 1703, d. 10 April 1796
FatherRobert Dawbins gent b. 16 Nov 1663, d. 10 Apr 1716
MotherCatherine (?) b. s 1670, d. a 8 Jul 1732
ChartsAncestors Margaret Wain 12 gen.
     Mary was born before 17 March 1703 at St Stephens by Saltash, Cornwall, England.1 She married Martin Withell of St Eval on 28 May 1727 at St Stephens by Saltash, Cornwall, England.1 She made a will on 30 December 1782 at St Eval, Cornwall, England. The copy of the will of Mary Withell the Elder was lost in bombing at Exeter during the War. Chancery documents give some details..2,3 Mary died on 10 April 1796 at St Eval, Cornwall, England.4 She was buried on 12 April 1796 at the churchyard, St Merryn, Cornwall, England. There is a monumental inscription.4,5 Withell versus Withell
Martin Withell versus administrators of the will of his mother Mary Withell of St Eval (mn Dawbins).This will was destroyed during WW2. Details understood from the court records.
Mary Withell the Elder apparently named her unmarried daughter Mary Withell as her sole executrix and heir. This was disputed by her son Martin on the grounds that his mother had not been capable of understanding what she was doing.

Ralph Barnes, Master of the official principal of the Episcopal Consistorial Court of Exeter lawfully constituted to all and singular clerks and literate persons lawfully appointed within the Diocese of Exeter Greeting.

We hereby charge and command you jointly and severally to cite or cause the cited Martin Withell Caveator in the Goods, Chattels and Credits of Mary Withell late of Saint Eval in the county of Cornwall and Diocese of Exeter Widow deceased that he appear before us or our lawful surrogate in the Cathedral church of Saint Peter in Exeter in the Consistorial Court and place of ????? there on Friday the twenty third day of September Instant at the usual hour of hearing causes there then and there to shew cause (if any) why the caveat by him interposed in the Goods, Chattels and Credits of the said deceased should not be revoked and the last will and testament of the said deceased proved in due form of law by Mary Withell the daughter of the said deceased and sole executor in the said will named. At the promotion of the said Mary Withell intimating further unto him that if he shall not appear at the time and place aforesaid or, appearing, do not show good and sufficient cause to the contrary, we or our lawful surrogate in kind to proceed in the revoking the said caveat and granting letters perlatory with the said will annexed to the said Mary Withell; his absence or ????? ????? notwithstanding; And what you shall herein ??? shall duly certify us at the time and place aforesaid together with these

Given under seal of our office
The fourteenth day of September in the
year of our lord 1796
Jacob Phillips, Registrar.

Family

Martin Withell of St Eval b. b 23 Jan 1705, d. b 28 Jun 1762
Children

Citations

  1. [S251] St Stephens by Saltash,.
  2. [S42] Mary Withell, PCC Will 1800.
  3. [S41] Martin Withell,.
  4. [S249] St Merryn, Parish Registers.
  5. [S35] Monumental Inscription.

Mary Withell

F, b. before 17 April 1728, d. 16 December 1729
FatherMartin Withell of St Eval b. b 23 Jan 1705, d. b 28 Jun 1762
MotherMary Dawbins b. b 17 Mar 1703, d. 10 Apr 1796
     Mary was born before 17 April 1728. Mary died on 16 December 1729 at St Eval, Cornwall, England.1 She was buried on 18 December 1729.1

Citations

  1. [S249] St Merryn, Parish Registers.

Anne Withell

F, b. before 10 February 1729, d. 5 December 1752
FatherMartin Withell of St Eval b. b 23 Jan 1705, d. b 28 Jun 1762
MotherMary Dawbins b. b 17 Mar 1703, d. 10 Apr 1796
     Anne was born before 10 February 1729 at St Eval, Cornwall, England. Anne died on 5 December 1752 at St Eval, Cornwall, England.1 She was buried on 7 December 1752. Burial- Anne daughter of Martin Withiel of St Eval 7 December 1752.1

Citations

  1. [S249] St Merryn, Parish Registers.

Mary Withell

F, b. before 16 July 1731, d. 12 August 1800
FatherMartin Withell of St Eval b. b 23 Jan 1705, d. b 28 Jun 1762
MotherMary Dawbins b. b 17 Mar 1703, d. 10 Apr 1796
     Mary was born before 16 July 1731 at St Eval, Cornwall, England.1 Mary brought a claim against Martin Withell of Padstow on 23 September 1796 at Cathedral, Exeter, Devon, England.2 She made a will on 16 May 1797 at St Eval, Cornwall, England.3 Mary died on 12 August 1800 at Padstow, Cornwall, England.4,5 She was buried on 15 August 1800.4,5

Citations

  1. [S247] St Eval, Cornwall, Parish Register.
  2. [S41] Martin Withell,.
  3. [S42] Mary Withell, PCC Will 1800.
  4. [S35] Monumental Inscription.
  5. [S249] St Merryn, Parish Registers.

Roger Withell

M, b. before 3 May 1736, d. 27 January 1754
FatherMartin Withell of St Eval b. b 23 Jan 1705, d. b 28 Jun 1762
MotherMary Dawbins b. b 17 Mar 1703, d. 10 Apr 1796
     Roger was born before 3 May 1736 at St Eval, Cornwall, England. Roger died on 27 January 1754 at St Eval, Cornwall, England. He was buried on 29 January 1754. Roger Withell from St Eval was buried 29 January 1754 at St Merryn.1

Citations

  1. [S249] St Merryn, Parish Registers.

Jennifer Withell

F, b. before 14 February 1734, d. 15 March 1745
FatherMartin Withell of St Eval b. b 23 Jan 1705, d. b 28 Jun 1762
MotherMary Dawbins b. b 17 Mar 1703, d. 10 Apr 1796
     Jennifer was born before 14 February 1734 at St Eval, Cornwall, England. Jennifer died on 15 March 1745 at St Eval, Cornwall, England. Parish Register entry for Jane Withell of St Eval. She was buried on 16 March 1745.

John Withell gent of St Eval

M, b. before 8 May 1744, d. 12 December 1781
FatherMartin Withell of St Eval b. b 23 Jan 1705, d. b 28 Jun 1762
MotherMary Dawbins b. b 17 Mar 1703, d. 10 Apr 1796
     John was born before 8 May 1744 at St Eval, Cornwall, England.1 He lived on 2 May 1776 at St Minver, Cornwall, England, On this date Mr. Withell paid a Poor rate due for the lease of property in Tredissick in St Minver.2 John died on 12 December 1781 at St Minver, Cornwall, England.3,1 He was buried on 15 December 1781.I. Monumental Inscription -In Memory of John Withell of the parish of St.Eval who departed this life 12 Dec.1781 the 37th.yeare of his age He was of an honest, noble and heroick mind and possessed of such good qualities that endeared him to all his aquaintance. He was a dutiful son, affectionate brother and a sincere and faithful friend. And as he lived very much beloved. He died greatly lamented.1

Citations

  1. [S35] Monumental Inscription.
  2. [S118] Malcolm McCarthy Collection and correspondence, Egloshorn, Padstow.
  3. [S247] St Eval, Cornwall, Parish Register.

Robert Dawbins gent1

M, b. 16 November 1663, d. 10 April 1716
FatherRobert Dawbins yeoman b. b 6 Dec 1619, d. 7 Apr 1698
ChartsAncestors Margaret Wain 12 gen.
     Robert was born on 16 November 1663 at Landrake, Cornwall, England. He married Catherine (?) say 1699. On 28 September 1705 Robert Dawbeny, Gent., Katherine his wife and Samuel his brother surrender to the Lord. The records of Modbury Prior show that a lease was renewed on their lives as customary tenants for a property called Notters in St Stephens by Saltash.2 Robert died at age 52 on 10 April 1716 at St Stephens by Saltash, Cornwall, England.3 He was buried on 12 April 1716 at St Stephens by Saltash, Cornwall, England.3

Family

Catherine (?) b. s 1670, d. a 8 Jul 1732
Children

Citations

  1. [S507] OPC website, , The surname was spelled Dabbing.
  2. [S73] Copy of Court Roll, Manor of Modbury Prior,.
  3. [S251] St Stephens by Saltash,.

John Withell1

M, b. before 2 July 1742, d. before 28 August 1742
FatherMartin Withell of St Eval b. b 23 Jan 1705, d. b 28 Jun 1762
MotherMary Dawbins b. b 17 Mar 1703, d. 10 Apr 1796
     John was born before 2 July 1742 at St Eval, Cornwall, England. John died before 28 August 1742 at St Eval, Cornwall, England.2 He was buried on 28 August 1742.

Citations

  1. [S247] St Eval, Cornwall, Parish Register.
  2. [S249] St Merryn, Parish Registers.

Catherine (?)

F, b. say 1670, d. after 8 July 1732
ChartsAncestors Margaret Wain 12 gen.
     Catherine was born say 1670. She married Robert Dawbins gent say 1699. She made a will on 8 July 1732 at St Stephens by Saltash, Cornwall, England. She bequeathed her estate as follows: All my messuages and tenements, goods and chattels whatsoever or wheresoever I give and bequeath unto my sons-in-law Martin Withell of St. Eval and John Treverton of St. Merryn and to my daughter Elizabeth the wife of Roger Batten of Quethiock, yeoman, equally to be divided between them after the payment of the sum of twenty-eight pounds due from me unto the said Martin Withell and the sum of twelve pounds due from me to the said John Treverton and all other my just debts and funeral charges and it is my will that such third part of my goods and chattels so given and bequeathed unto my daughter Elizabeth Batten (after payment of my debts and funeral charges) shall be to her sole and seperate use, exclusive of her said husband. And I do hereby nominate and appoint the said Martin Withell, John Treverton and Elizabeth Batten joint executors of this my last will and testement, in witness wherefof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this Eighth day of July in the Sixth year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord George the Second by the Grace of God of Great Britain, France and Ireland King, Defender of the faith etc. anno domini 1732.1 Catherine died after 8 July 1732 at St Stephens by Saltash, Cornwall, England.

Family

Robert Dawbins gent b. 16 Nov 1663, d. 10 Apr 1716
Children

Citations

  1. [S43] Catherine Dawbins, Will 1732.

Anne Dawbins

F, b. before 14 February 1706
FatherRobert Dawbins gent b. 16 Nov 1663, d. 10 Apr 1716
MotherCatherine (?) b. s 1670, d. a 8 Jul 1732
     Anne was born before 14 February 1706 at St Stephens by Saltash, Cornwall, England.1 She married John Treverton by License on 15 February 1730 at St Stephens by Saltash, Cornwall, England.1 Anne died .

Family

John Treverton b. s 1700, d. 1750

Citations

  1. [S251] St Stephens by Saltash,.

John Dawbins

M, b. before 27 February 1701
FatherRobert Dawbins gent b. 16 Nov 1663, d. 10 Apr 1716
MotherCatherine (?) b. s 1670, d. a 8 Jul 1732
     John was born before 27 February 1701 at St Stephens by Saltash, Cornwall, England.

John Treverton

M, b. say 1700, d. 1750
     John was born say 1700. He married Anne Dawbins on 15 February 1730 at St Stephens by Saltash, Cornwall, England.1 John died in 1750.

Family

Anne Dawbins b. b 14 Feb 1706

Citations

  1. [S251] St Stephens by Saltash,.

Martin Withell

M, b. before 30 October 1763, d. 15 September 1833
FatherMartin Withell of Padstow b. b 13 Jul 1733, d. 25 Sep 1807
MotherElizabeth Ivey b. b 8 May 1740, d. b 25 Feb 1809
     Martin was born before 30 October 1763 at St Ervan, Cornwall, England. He married Phillipa Brown on 26 September 1790 at Padstow, Cornwall, England.1

Martin had sufficient enterprise to establish a small shipbuilding yard and in 1798 he was listed in the “Universal Directory” as one of five shipbuilders in Padstow. This was a completely new venture for the family.

Padstow was the only harbour on the coast with 16ft. of water at low tide and a rise of 22. ft but it was reported in 1836 that 4/5ths of the harbour was covered by sand at low water. Unfortunately the records of the shipyards were destroyed in the mid 20th century but we do know that in 1823 Martin’s yard was at South Quay. His shipyard and that of George SLOGGETT were sandwiched between the large Tredwin property and the small basin which comprised the port of Padstow and which is now the enclosed inner basin. He apparently needed more space because in 1815 he also leased a piece of ground in Dennis Cove for a shipyard. This was where much larger ships were built.

In 1799 he built the 45 ton sloop WILLIAM, followed by the 69 ton brig BRITANNIA 1803 (lost 1825) In 1804 Martin Withell was one of the West Country shipbuilders surveyed in order to assess their readiness to meet the Napoleonic threat. The yards were listed as adequate for the building of merchant vessels required locally. Five further ships built by this shipyard were the sloop NANSCOW 1812, the 66 ton smack JOHN AND SARAH 1814, the 88 ton brig ALAN 1817, the 34 ton sloop PORTH 1818, the 75 ton Schooner GRACE 1820 and there were probably others not attributed to him. Martin was also involved in buying and selling ships and was engaged as a consultant for a salvage operation. Martin was listed in a Shipbuilder directory at Padstow, Cornwall, England, in 1798.2

The 'Sally' was wrecked on the Doom Bar off Padstow on 20 January 1807. Prior to the shipwreck, the brigantine 'Sally had been captured by a Spanish privateer ('Attravalo') on 11 Jnuary and then recaptured by HMS Alcmene on 14 January. The wreck had to be valued for sale and Martin Withell master shipbuilder was one of the signatories to the valuation document. It was sold by auction at the Golden Inn, Padstow on 21 May 1807.
There were 140 letters and documents relating to the last voyage of the brig 'Sally' which had been engaged on the slave trade. Thomas Phillips was also noted as shipmaster.3 West Briton
1811 April 5th
Sloop for sale. To be sold by private contract. The sloop Elizabeth, about 60 tons burthen. Now lying at Padstow, well found in stores and quite ready for sea
For particulars apply to Mr Martin Withiell, Padstow.4

He made a will on 18 June 1833 at Padstow, Cornwall, England. Martin died on 15 September 1833 at Padstow, Cornwall, England.5,6 He was buried on 19 September 1833. A large tombstone now placed in the approach to the North Door of St Merryn church records a number of Withell family burials.

Sacred to the memory of Martin Withell who departed this life on the 15th. day of September 1833 Age 70yrs. Also near this tomb lies the body of Mary Withell, grandmother to the before named. Also in memory of Mary her daughter who died at Padstow and was buried here. Likewise the body of John Withell brother of the above said Martin Withell who died at St. Minver and was interred near this place. Also underneath this stone lie the mortal remains of Phillipa, relict of the above mentioned Martin Withell who departed this life.1,5

Family

Phillipa Brown b. 1765, d. 5 Feb 1858
Marriage*He married Phillipa Brown on 26 September 1790 at Padstow, Cornwall, England.1 

Citations

  1. [S221] Padstow, St Petroc, Parish Register.
  2. [S70] John Bartlett, Ships of North Cornwall.
  3. [S118] Malcolm McCarthy Collection and correspondence, Egloshorn, Padstow, Malcolm bought these documents from R.C. Badley, an amateur historian. My letter from Mr Badley is filed under shipbuilders.
  4. [S422] West Britain Newspaper.
  5. [S35] Monumental Inscription.
  6. [S249] St Merryn, Parish Registers.

Mary Withell

F, b. before 7 July 1767
FatherMartin Withell of Padstow b. b 13 Jul 1733, d. 25 Sep 1807
MotherElizabeth Ivey b. b 8 May 1740, d. b 25 Feb 1809
     Mary was born before 7 July 1767 at St Merryn, Cornwall, England.1 She married Thomas Hick by banns on 6 January 1794 at St Minver, Cornwall, England. By James Evans the curate of St Endellion. The witnesses were Mary's brother Martin Withell and her future brother-in-lawThomas Massey. Both bride and groom were able to sign..2 Mary died .

Citations

  1. [S249] St Merryn, Parish Registers.
  2. [S250] St Minver, Parish Register.

Elizabeth Withell

F, b. before 19 January 1770
FatherMartin Withell of Padstow b. b 13 Jul 1733, d. 25 Sep 1807
MotherElizabeth Ivey b. b 8 May 1740, d. b 25 Feb 1809
     Elizabeth was born before 19 January 1770 at St Merryn, Cornwall, England.1 She married Thomas Massey on 16 October 1796 at St Merryn, Cornwall, England. The couple had five known children.. Elizabeth died .

Family

Thomas Massey b. s 1765
Children

Citations

  1. [S249] St Merryn, Parish Registers.

Thomas Withell

M, b. 11 September 1778, d. 15 September 1846
FatherMartin Withell of Padstow b. b 13 Jul 1733, d. 25 Sep 1807
MotherElizabeth Ivey b. b 8 May 1740, d. b 25 Feb 1809
ChartsAncestors Margaret Wain 12 gen.
     Thomas was born on 11 September 1778 in at St Ervan, Cornwall, England. He was the eighth child of Martin Withell and Elizabeth Ivey..1 He was

When he was about 7 years old, the family moved to Padstow where Thomas would have gone to school. Although all his older brothers were working in the shipbuilding industry, Thomas followed his own direction and became a builder. He was to enter into property transactions on his own behalf and seems to have taken on responsibility within the family.

On 6 May 1805 he married Jenny Key at in the church of St Petroc, Padstow, Cornwall, England. One of the witnesses to the marriage was Nicholas Key. This signature appears to be the same as the signature of Jenny's father in the marriage register in 1777.2

In 1820 Robert and Blanche were visited by his brother Thomas and they were both to be witnesses of Thomas's second marriage to Ann Kay.
The entry states Anne Kay of St. Jacob (Anthony) was married to Thomas Withell joiner on 29 May 1820 at Stoke Damerel Devon. Witnesses were Robert Withell and Blanche Withell.3 He leased a property from Revd. C P Brune on 20 December 1824 at Padstow, Cornwall, England. The lease of the plot where the malthouse had previously stood was for 99 years at a rent of £4..4

In 1830 Thomas was listed in the Cornwall Directory as a builder and carpenter, self employed.5 On the 7 February 1831, Thomas entered into an agreement with the Rev. Charles Prideaux to pay the rent owing on a dwelling house occupied by his brother -in -law William Symons until such time as the said William was able to pay himself. I Thomas Withell of the parish of Padstow in the Count of Cornwall Carpenter do herebvy undetake and agree to pay unto the Revd Charles Prideaux the sum of thirteen pounds two shillings and six pence due and owing to him at Christmas last from William Symons for a dwelling house in Padstow on account further sum (as) what to accrue (?)for(/) of the same dwelling house from Christmas last to such time as the said William Symons shall (-------)in consideration that the said Charles Prideaux Brune hath approved to forgo the -- a -- in the goods of the said William Symons in the recovery of the said Rent. Declared the 7th day of February 1831.
Signed Thomas Withell
. He married Mary Peter Rawe on 29 April 1838 at by licence, Padstow, Cornwall, England. Witnesses to the marriage were Edward Oke and his wife Ann who was the sister of the bride..6

A census listed Thomas as head of household on 6 June 1841 living in Church St. At Padstow, Cornwall, England. His occupation was a shipbuilder.7 LAUNCHES - On Tuesday, the 20th instant, a very handsome schooner, of about 100 tons burthen, the property of Mr. John HAWKEN, merchant, of Padstow, was launched from the building-yard of Messrs. WITHELL and Co., shipbuilders, of that town. This little vessel, for beauty of model and superior strength and workmanship, has elicited the approbation of every beholder, and reflects a great deal of credit on the builders. She was named the ?Excel,? by --BATEMAN, Esq., of London, whose present at an entertainment given at the Commercial Hotel, added much to the conviviality on the occasion.

Thomas and WIlliam were not particularly successful with their shipbuilding enterprise and they were required to attend the Exeter District Court of Bankruptcy with his brother William on 22 November and 20 December at 12 o'clock following which their shipbuilding business was declared bankrupt. This was reported in the Times newspaper on 15 November 1843. Their solicitors were Messre Coode and Browne, Bedford-row and Messrs Coodes and Shelson, St Austell. The official assignee was Mr. Hirtzel of Exeter. He was reported as an English Bankrupt in the newspaper Scotsman. His occupation was a shipbuilder. on 18 November 1843 at Edinburgh, West Lothian, Scotland.8 He was A dividend was declared to T Withell of Padstow - certificate to be granted unless cause be shown to the contrary on the day of meeting. on 4 April 1845 at Padstow, Cornwall, England.9

Thomas died at age 68 on 15 September 1846 at Padstow, Cornwall, England.10 He was buried on 20 September 1846 at in the church of St Petroc, Padstow, Cornwall, England. Although tombstones in memory of his three wives have survived, it appears there may not have been one placed for Thomas himself.2

Family 1

Jenny Key b. b 7 Nov 1784, d. 24 Jun 1810
Marriage*

On 6 May 1805 he married Jenny Key at in the church of St Petroc, Padstow, Cornwall, England. One of the witnesses to the marriage was Nicholas Key. This signature appears to be the same as the signature of Jenny's father in the marriage register in 1777.2 
Children

Family 2

Ann Kay b. s 1791, d. 16 Nov 1833
Marriage*

In 1820 Robert and Blanche were visited by his brother Thomas and they were both to be witnesses of Thomas's second marriage to Ann Kay.
The entry states Anne Kay of St. Jacob (Anthony) was married to Thomas Withell joiner on 29 May 1820 at Stoke Damerel Devon. Witnesses were Robert Withell and Blanche Withell.3 
Children

Family 3

Mary Peter Rawe b. 1793, d. 13 Aug 1851
Marriage*He married Mary Peter Rawe on 29 April 1838 at by licence, Padstow, Cornwall, England. Witnesses to the marriage were Edward Oke and his wife Ann who was the sister of the bride..6 

Citations

  1. [S246] St Ervan Cornwall, Parish Register.
  2. [S221] Padstow, St Petroc, Parish Register.
  3. [S185] Cornwall Marriage Index,, Compiled by June Ross.
  4. [S62] Prideaux Brune Family Papers, PB2/66.
  5. [S109] Pigot's Directory of Cornwall 1830, Cornwall England, p.153.
  6. [S3] England, Marriage Certificate, Certified copy of an entry in a Register of Marriages, Thomas Withiel 1838.
  7. [S5] 1841.
  8. [S360] The Scotsman, !8 November 1843 - Page 3.
  9. [S300] The Times London, 18 March 1845 p. 5 Dividends.
  10. [S18] England, Death Certificate, Certified copy of an entry in a Register of Deaths, Thomas Withell Sen. 1846.

William Withell

M, b. before 22 May 1774
FatherMartin Withell of Padstow b. b 13 Jul 1733, d. 25 Sep 1807
MotherElizabeth Ivey b. b 8 May 1740, d. b 25 Feb 1809
     William was born before 22 May 1774 at St Eval, Cornwall, England.1

William Withell lived in 1803 at Padstow, Cornwall, England, From at least 1803 until 9 June 1807 William held a lease from Thos. Rawlings for Treyarnon in St Merryn. For the year 1803 he was assessed to pay two pounds and thirteen shillings as a land tax on Treyarnon towards the granting of aid to his Majesty.2 A marriage has not been confirmed for William although there was a marriage of William Withell to Mary Halfpenny at St Leonard's, Shoreditch on 31 October 1804. The entry in the register did not give sufficient detail to identify the parents or the home parish.

William apparently established himself for a short time as a small shipbuilder at Porth, a small village a mile northeast of Newquay harbour. He set up a small shipbuilding site on a sheltered corner of the beach where the stream ran down to the sea. It was there in 1818 that he completed the 44 ft long 35 Ton sloop PORTH (ON 10876). The Porth was based first at Padstow and owned by J. Giles, J. Nichols, William Carter, Parnell and Charles Fishley. In 1853 the Porth was sold at Falmouth but in 1866 it was registered at Bideford by Daniel Walters. It was lost at Neath on 4th February 1867.3

A William Withell was noted as travelling on the schooner Speculator which departed for Halifax and arrived in Philadelphia on 30 July 1818. This reference was found in a list of passengers found in Immigration records on ancestry.com but is not confirmed as William b. 1774 in Cornwall.
Need to write to get more details.4

From the end of 1818 William was employed by William Sloggett as master of the JANE which had been recently built at Penzance by John Matthews. The Jane was a 44 Ton sloop with a running bowsprit and square stern. William may have been master until 1825 when the Jane was resold.5

William Withell appeared on the census of 1850 at Philadelphia, United States America. I have included this in order to keep the reference. There is no proof that this was William Withell from Padstow in Cornwall, The age as stated at 70 is interesting but the birthplace is stated as Mass. US. A death has not been found for William.

Citations

  1. [S247] St Eval, Cornwall, Parish Register.
  2. [S386] St Merryn Land Tax, , 1803.
  3. [S70] John Bartlett, Ships of North Cornwall, p. 224.
  4. [S375] William Withell, Schooner - "Speculator", National Archives Series 425 Microfilm No.26, List No. 158.
  5. [S70] John Bartlett, Ships of North Cornwall, p.201.

Samuel Withell

M, b. before 26 July 1776, d. 3 January 1851
FatherMartin Withell of Padstow b. b 13 Jul 1733, d. 25 Sep 1807
MotherElizabeth Ivey b. b 8 May 1740, d. b 25 Feb 1809
     Samuel was born before 26 July 1776 at St Eval, Cornwall, England.

They had marriage banns published on 27 January 1805 at in the church of St Petroc, Padstow, Cornwall, England.1 He married Joanna Hambly on 3 March 1805 at Padstow, Cornwall, England.1

The directory of 1830 listed Samuel as a shopkeeper and dealer in sundries in Padstow.2 Samuel Withell appeared on the census of 6 June 1841 at Padstow, Cornwall, England, Samuel was a journeyman shipwright living in Market Square.3

He made a will on 21 December 1850 at Padstow, Cornwall, England. This is the last will and testament of me, Samuel Withell of the Parish of Padstow in the County of Cornwall, Ship Builder.
First I reccomend my soul to the God that gave it and my body to the earth to have a decent Christian like burial at the direction of my executor hereinafter named.
I give and bequeath unto my son Martin Withell, Carpenter, the sum of one shilling.
I give and bequeath unto my son Samuel Withell, Carpenter, the sum of one shilling.
I give and bequeath unto my son William Withell, Ship builder, all my leasehold property situated in the Market place, now in the several occupations of William Randall, Samuel Withell, Kitty Fielding and late of myself, with all right in Sand Barges and all materials thereunto belonging, all my working tools, all my household furniture and all book debts.
I also make my said son William sole executor of this my last will and testament revoking and disallowing all wills heretofore by me made.
Witness my hand this twenty first day of December,One thousand eight hundred and fifty.

Signed, sealed, published and declared by me the
said Samuel Withell the testator as and for his last
will and testement in the presence of us in his presence SAMUEL WITHELL
at his request and in the presence of easch other
have subscribed our names as witnesses thereunto

D. Osborne
Joseph Husband
.4 Samuel died on 3 January 1851 at Padstow, Cornwall, England. He was buried on 6 January 1851 at Padstow, Cornwall, England. St. Petroc churchyard.1

Family

Joanna Hambly b. b 20 May 1770, d. b 27 Nov 1844
Marriage Bann*

They had marriage banns published on 27 January 1805 at in the church of St Petroc, Padstow, Cornwall, England.1 
Marriage* He married Joanna Hambly on 3 March 1805 at Padstow, Cornwall, England.1 
Children

Citations

  1. [S221] Padstow, St Petroc, Parish Register.
  2. [S109] Pigot's Directory of Cornwall 1830, Cornwall England.
  3. [S5] 1841, Piece: HO107/150 Place: Pydar-Cornwall Enumeration District: 2
    Civil Parish: Padstow Ecclesiastical Parish: -
    Folio: 30 Page: 11
    Address: Market Square.
  4. [S77] Samuel Withell, Probate File 1851.

Jenny Key

F, b. before 7 November 1784, d. 24 June 1810
FatherNicholas Key yeoman b. b 22 Oct 1754, d. b 8 Dec 1834
MotherJennefer Hawken b. b 30 Jan 1759, d. b 5 Dec 1849
ChartsAncestors Margaret Wain 12 gen.
     Jenny Key was born in St Merryn sometime before 7 November 1784.1 She married Thomas Withell on 6 May 1805 at in the church of St Petroc, Padstow, Cornwall, England.2

Sadly Jenney died on 24 June 1810 most probably during or because of childbirth.3 She was buried on 27 June 1810 at Padstow, Cornwall, England. Her tombstone at Padstow is inscribed - Sacred to the memory of Jenney, the wife of Thomas Withell of this town, who departed this life 24 June 1810, Age 29 yrs. The tombstone may have been erected at a later date because the stated age of Jenney and of her sister Ann is not consistent with other records.2

Family

Thomas Withell b. 11 Sep 1778, d. 15 Sep 1846
Children

Citations

  1. [S34] Monumental Inscription.
  2. [S221] Padstow, St Petroc, Parish Register.
  3. [S34] Jenney Withell, Monumental Inscription.

John Withell Yeoman of St Minver

M, b. say 1765, d. 5 April 1796
FatherMartin Withell of Padstow b. b 13 Jul 1733, d. 25 Sep 1807
MotherElizabeth Ivey b. b 8 May 1740, d. b 25 Feb 1809
     John was born say 1765. A baptism has not been found for John but his death was recorded on a family tombstone in St Merryn churchyard. The birth date as estimated from his age as stated in a land contract would have been 1769. However the age given for his brother Thomas on this document was in fact 6 years younger than his actual age. Because the length of the lease was calculated on "lives", understating actual age would be beneficial. His mother Elizabeth had a pregnancy every 2 years and John was most likely born about 1765 in the four year gap between the births of Martin and Mary..

John Withell Yeoman of St Minver signed a Land Contract on 29 March 1794 Manor of Trewornan at St Minver, Cornwall, England, This was a counterpart of a reversionary lease for 99 yrs. or 2 lives between (i) Darell Trelawny, Coldrinnick, esq. and (ii) John Withell, St. Minver, yeo. It was for - - lands etc. in Tredrissick, formerly in possession of Martyn Withell then John Withell decd., then Mary Withell. watercourses. Lives were : (ii) (24), his brother Thomas Withell (12) term to begin after death of Mary Withell. Trees reserved, also mines, minerals, quarries of slate and stone. Repair including walls, windows, timbers, doors, coverings overhead, hedges, ditches, gates, posts, bars, stiles and fences. Re-entry after arrears of 30 days in default of distress, or heriot not paid, or decay to value of 40s. not repaired after six months notice. Fine,£180. Rent 13s. Heriot £4 Witd. Edmd. Carthew, William Williams.
Endsd. 'Expired 1846.(this was after the death of Thomas)DS/287 29 March 1794.1

John died on 5 April 1796 at St Minver, Cornwall, England. He had not married..2,3 He was buried on 8 April 1796 at St Merryn, Cornwall, England. The inscription added to the family tombstone reads:- Likewise the body of John Withell brother of the above said Martin Withell who died at St Minver and was interred near this place..3,2

Citations

  1. [S202] Lease of Tredrizzick in St Minver, Darell, Darell Stephens and Stephens of Trewornan St Minver, DS/287, 29 Mar 1794.
  2. [S249] St Merryn, Parish Registers.
  3. [S35] Monumental Inscription.