1869 Handwritten Family History Manuscript

Family PedigreeDecember 23rd 1869

Squire Barnes — a native of either Scotland or Ireland, from whence he came to settle in Sussex — and whose wife’s maiden name was Lux —Died — and both the revered remains of whom are interred at — Horomonden Churchyard — Sussex.

Horomonden — an extensive parish and considerable village built round a green 3 miles N.E. from Lamberhurst — and 14 miles from Maidstone.The Church — dedicated to St. Margaret is a handsome structure, with nave, chancel, side aisles, tower with 6 bells — situated 1½ miles from the village, and near the verge of the parish.

The Rectory — is a large mansion near the church surrounded by a spacious park —In the church are some interesting memorials, one of which is to Robert de Goushurst who founded a perpetual charity. —Near the Church stands a fine Oak tree which measures 23 feet in girth. —A Fair for Cattle and Pedlary is held on the 26th and 27th of July —On a bank some years ago many cannon balls were found — it is supposed they were used in proving cannon manufactured at the extensive iron works formerly carried on in this Parish — where there are several chalybeate springs.

Squire Barnes — had two daughters viz.: — Lady Elizabeth Barnes — Lady Mary Barnes —The above Lady Elizabeth married Thos. Usherwood Esq. —A very large and wealthy Farmer, who resided at Tichurst Sussex —She died and her revered remains are interred in — Wadhurst Churchyard Sussex, — and in the Church is erected the — Escutcheon — of Squire Barnes —The above Thos. Usherwood Esq. had one brother named — John — rather an imbecile, and the Father of whom was an invalid, so incapable of moving from his chair; who happened one day to be sitting in the chimney corner, and complained to his rather imbecile son — John of the cold — when he said: — “Oh! if you’re cold, Johnny, your boy will warm you”; he then placed on the Brand iron a huge faggot, the flames of which extended themselves towards the Old Gentleman; and before assistance could be rendered in time, he was so severely burnt that he died; and his revered remains are interred in — Wadhurst Churchyard Sussex — and in the church is erected his “Escutcheon” —

The aforesaid Thos. Usherwood Esq. who married Lady Elizabeth Barnes — had two daughters and three sons — viz.:Mary — Born March 12th 1748 — age 70 years, died April 24th 1818 and was interred at Mayfield in Sussex Elizabeth — Born 1750 John — 1751 Thomas — 1753 —The youngest son Thomas met with an instantaneous death through a fall, at the early age of 3 years; and his revered remains are interred in — “Wadhurst Churchyard Sussex”.

Most of the Usherwood Family lie here which was very numerous —Lady Mary Barnes — married Sir John Toke. She died, and her revered remains are interred in — Horomonden Churchyard Sussex — and by whom was one daughter — “Elizabeth” named after her Aunt; she happened one day to be overtaken by a thunder-storm, which caused her to take cold; consumption ensuing and she died at the early age of 19 years.

She had saved her pence, which amounted to 40 of Queen Anne’s Guineas which she had placed in a little green baize bag; and at her death she was pleased to give them between her 2 cousins — Mary and Elizabeth Usherwood.Her revered remains are interred in — Hadlow Churchyard, about 3 or 4 miles from Tunbridge.

The will of Squire Barnes —being made before the marriage of his eldest daughterLady Elizabeth — he bequeathed to her eldest child — if a daughter — A sheet of houses, and to her eldest son — His Watch and Chain and Seal, which bear his Court of Arms as an Heirloom; and the same in proportion to the eldest child of his second daughter — Lady Mary.

The aforesaid Sir John Toke died, and his revered remains are interred in — Marden Churchyard — and, in the Church, is erected his Monument.Marden — an extensive parish, and populous village 7½ miles S.S.W. from Maidstone, which commands a fine and diversified view of the wealth of Kent.

The Church — is an ancient fabric, with nave, side aisles, two chancels, a square tower, short steeple, clock, and 6 bells.

The Vicarage — is a neat residence on the E. side of the Village, and the Parsonage is near the S. side of the church.

The Wesleyan Methodists have a chapel the E. side of the Churchyard; and the Independents one at the W. end of the village.

Richard de Lucy gave the Church of Marden — to the Abbey of Lesnes — and after the dissolution, it was granted to Cardinal Wolsey, but, on whose disgrace it reverted to the Crown, where it continued until Queen Elizabeth granted it to the See of Canterbury, where it now remains.

Mary, the eldest daughter of the aforesaid Thos. and Elizabeth Usherwood — was born March 12th, 1748 — and was baptized 31st 1749 — was married at Cranbrook Church — to — William Cooper Esq. — Veterinary Surgeon — and — Blacksmith, and, who was born May 5th 1751 — Died Sept. 29th 1796, Aged 45 years —Interred in Cranbrook Churchyard — also his wife Mary, who died 24th April 1818, nearly 5 o’clock in the afternoon; and whose revered remains are interred at — Mayfield Sussex.

Cranbrook — their place of residence, is an extensive Parish and considerable market town, on the Crane Brook —It forms the principal town in the Weald of Kent, of which it is nearly in the centre, 14 miles from Maidstone, 8 miles W. by N. from Tenterden, and consists principally of one spacious street, neatly built, and about three quarters of a mile in length and, is a polling place at the election of Members for W. Kent.

In the 10th year of Edward III, the Flemings patronized by that monarch erected here the woollen manufacture, which was carried on in the Weald of Kent until it was removed to the Counties of Gloucester and Somerset —There are 3 chalybeate springs in this Parish —The Church dedicated to “St. Dunstan” — situated nearly in the centre of the town is a large structure, with nave, side aisles, 3 chancels, and an embattled Tower, with 8 bells. —In the S. aisle of the Church is a superb pyramid of white marble on which are the names and dates of those interred —In 1725 a part of this church fell in; but was afterwards repaired —A Chantry was after founded by J. Roberts Esq. for a priest to say Mass for ever. His figure was painted on the N. aisle

To the aforesaid William and Mary Cooper, were born 12 children viz: —Edmund — born June 3rd 1771.

Died Dec 8th 1793.

Interred in — Marden Churchyard — where lies — **Sir John

Toker** — and, on his headstone are these lines:

“Grieve not for me my Parents [dear]Since it is all in vainIn blessed Regions let me hopeTo meet you there again.”

Mary — born Nov 25th 1773 —Died at Bidborough, Dec 26th 1847

Elizabeth — March 27th 1776William Usherwood — Sept 19th 1774

Thomas — Oct 18th 1779James — Oct 15th 1781

Wilkin — April 21st 1783Died Augt 11th at Jamaica 1841

Barnes — March 1st 1785Died April 23rd 1804

John — April 21st 1787

James — April 1st 1788

Anna — July 22nd 1789

Edmund — Dec 13th 1790

Elizabeth, the second daughter of the aforesaid Thos. and Elizabeth Usherwood of Tichurst Sussex, married to Thos. Arckoll Esq. — a very wealthy, but eccentric Farmer who resided at — Mayfield Sussex.

The name of their last estate which they inhabited was entitled — The Church.

His taste as regards his habiliment was most eccentric and obsolete, wearing always below and around his knee a huge rope yarn displaying below his white stocking; huge buckles upon his shoes, and a very thick yarn around his waist.In this style of dress he went to Church —As no children were ever born to the aforesaid —William and Mary Cooper Thos. and Elizabeth Arckoll — he adopted 3 children of the aforesaid William and Mary Cooper — viz. — Mary — Anna — John —The last mentioned John, was after Resident Engineer of Dover Harbour —Before the death of Elizabeth, the wife of Thos. Arckoll Esq., who was of a tall comely figure; but so exceedingly penurious, though possessed of such great wealth; when ill, she selected a Nurse from the Poor-House, and would have no other —She died, and her revered remains are interred at —“Mayfield Sussex” —

Some time after her death this nurse, through blandishment, prevailed upon Thos. Arckoll Esq. — whom he married in London —He was exceedingly fond of his adopted Son — John Cooper; and his love was reciprocated —So often he was wont to accompany his Uncle far on his lands; who one day took him to the top of a high hill, and said to him: —“John my boy! Look as far round as you can see, is mine. Your Uncle Arckoll has taken care of his boy John.”

Scarcely had Thos. Arckoll been married to this nurse about 3 weeks, when he fell dangerously ill —She procured a lawyer and, in his last moments, his nephew and adopted son — John entered the dying chamber of his uncle and saw this worthless woman together with the lawyer guiding his dying hand, through which she willed to herself all the wealth of the aforesaid — Thos. Arckoll Esq.” —John begged of them to allow him to speak to his uncle; but she buffeted him out of the room; and gave only the rival sum of £100 to John, and £1500 to his eldest sister Mary, and £100 to his sister Anna —It was always supposed that this Nurse administered poison to Thos. Arckoll Esq. —His revered remains are interred at — “Mayfield Sussex” — together with those of his wife Elizabeth; and soon after whose interment, the Nurse welcomed her sons and daughters, who were yet in the Poor-House, to her auspicious and wealthy “Abode” —A short time after she married the Lawyer, who together after left Mayfield for London, where there now remains some members of her Family, in affluence — Thos. Usherwood Esq. of Tichurst Sussex — whose revered remains are interred in Wadhurst Churchyard Sussex — in the same Vault with those of his wife Elizabeth, who was the eldest daughter of the aforesaid Squire Barnes — was a very large and wealthy Farmer —The name of the Farm they lastly inhabited was entitled — “Tolhuret” —After the death of his wife, which so greatly bereaved him, he would not permit one thing to be moved from where she had lately placed it, so heedless was Thos. Usherwood Esq., that he permitted the Chickens to roost in his Hall, which was also a “Rendez-vous” for the Ducks, Pigs, Geese &c. —

The aforesaid Thomas Usherwood Esq. was thrown from his horse, through which was the cause of his death; and in the articles of which, his eldest son — James — procured a lawyer, made a false will, and gave to himself all the wealth of his Father, the aforesaid — Thos. Usherwood Esq., who died worth £100,000 and 25 Farms besides Watermills. —

The youngest son — John Usherwood — resided in a Farm lent to him by his Father, and though his brother James disinherited him and his Sisters — Mary and Elizabeth — he was exasperated when his brother bid him render to him the farm, he resisted, saying he was well assured that his dear father never made so unjust a will, and if he insisted that he would enter an action against him this I suppose rather intimated him as John retained the Farm —

The daughters — Mary and Elizabeth — then only possessed their Wedding Dowers of £1500 each —

The aforesaid eldest daughter Mary, of Thos. and Elizabeth Usherwood, who married the aforesaid William Cooper Esq., Veterinary Surgeon, Blacksmith of Cranbrook — was left a Widow with 9 Children, 3 of whom were adopted by the aforesaid Thos. Arckoll Esq. of Mayfield Sussex —

Through misfortune and gaiety — William Cooper Esq. sunk his worthThe — Court of arms of whom still exists in the Family —

The Sheet of Houses bequeathed to the aforesaid — Mary, wife of William Cooper Esq., by her grandpa — Squire Barnes — her eldest brother — James — who had thus deprived her of her portion in her father’s will (of Thos. Usherwood Esq.) —Through his artifice and alluring her by presents — thus prevailed upon her to sign some parchments, she not foreseeing her folly, did so, and in the which gave to him the “Sheet of Houses” bequeathed to her by her Grandpa the aforesaid Squire Barnes.

His wealth did not however flourish; and after a few years his Grandchildren came to work as plough boys on his lands — Brambles, a small Manor for which Mr. Usherwood formerly held a court — Mr. James Usherwood presented to Wadhurst Church Sussex — a clock with his name therein.

Thos. Cooper Esq., brother to the aforesaid William Cooper Esq., Veterinary Surgeon, of “Cranbrook”, lived in Jamaica, was engaged for marriage to a young lady of Tenterden — for which purpose he came to England; on his arrival he was both vexed and surprised to find that she had already married —He always wore powdered hair; was exceedingly fastidious —On his return to Jamaica he sent to the widow of his brother — William Cooper Esq. — for 3 of her children, viz. — **Barnes — Wilkin — — William** — who went to Jamaica, and whom he brought up; 3 others were adopted by Thos. Arckoll Esq. of Mayfield who were named — Mary — Elizabeth — John —The Sister of the aforesaid William Cooper Esq. of Cranbrook married — George Marrett Esq. of Falmouth Jamaica, where resided Wilkin Cooper, son of William Cooper Esq.

In Falmouth Jamaica, on Tuesday Aug 10th 1841, at Ashton the Residence of George Marrett Esq., died Wilkin Cooper Esq., in the 60th year of his age, 42 of which were spent in this Island; and who was for many years — Coroner of Trelawney — and was deservedly esteemed by all who had the pleasure of his acquaintance —His revered remains are interred in — Swanswick Churchyard —

The above — Wilkin Cooper Esq., had very large Plantations in Jamaica, exporting to England; but which he resigned.

William Cooper Esq., son of the above, resided at — Twickenham Park — Ocho Rios — Jamaica

Wilkin Cooper Esq. — Claremont — Golden Grove — Jamaica

George Cooper Esq. — Falmouth Jamaica

William Cooper, son of William and Mary Cooper of Cranbrook, was born Sept. 19th 1774, was one of the 3 children who went to Jamaica, died on his passage from thence to England.

Barnes, also son of William and Mary Cooper, was born March 1st 1785. Died April 23rd 1804, at Jamaica

Wilkin Cooper Esq., also son of William and Mary Cooper, died at Jamaica, at the Residence of — George Marrett Esq., August 10th 1841. Interred in Swanswick Churchyard

Anne, also daughter of the aforesaid William and Mary Cooper, born July 22nd 1789, married Mr. Edward Weston, farmer of Sussex, from whence they came to reside in “Dover”.

The Mill and Residence situate at Kearnsey River —The above Mrs. Weston is now living in the present year (1869), aged 80 years; but almost blind, and void of hearing. She died May 13ᵗʰ 1840Interred in River ChurchydDover, Kent ————The aforesaid Mr. Edward Weston died April 19ᵗʰ 1852 aged 58 years. Interred at River ————

Thomas Cooper — also son of William and Mary Cooper of Cranbrook, died Novʳ 6ᵗʰ 1861 — Interred at — Norwood Cemetery Surrey — He married Miss Anna Gaine who died; he again married Miss Eliza Lucy — by whom are 2 surviving daughters viz — Eliza, and Fanny — who keep a Boarding School — His wife died at her residence Oakley House Clapham Park Janʸ 1ˢᵗ 1871 3. Brunswick HousePortland Place Clapham London.

James Cooper — son of the aforesaid — William and Mary Cooper of Cranbrook — was born Octʳ 15ᵗʰ 1781. Died June 21ˢᵗ 1871 — Millwright and Engineer “Sittingbourne” Kent —————

“Sittingbourne” — a parish and ancient market town, on the London and Dover Road.12 miles N.E. by E. from Maidstone —————It is one of the polling places for the Eastern division of the Country, and has been greatly improved within the last few years, by the addition of new buildings &c ————The Royal assent was given to Sittingbourne Improvements Act on the 28ᵗʰ June 1836 since which gas works have been established, and very general improvements made ————

In the bygone days of coaching it was a first town of great repute, and was noted for the excellence of its Inns ————Sittingbourne was incorporated in the 16ᵗʰ year of Queen Elizabeth by the name — Guardians and free tenants thereof; when a market town was granted weekly, and a Fair yearly, one at Whitsuntide, the other at Michaelmas, which charter was used for several years, when the “Queen” in her 41ˢᵗ year granted it a more ample charter and incorporated this place by the name of “Mayor” and Jurats, and regranted the Market and Fair with other privileges ————

In the year 893 the Danes having fitted out a great number of ships with the intention of ravaging the coasts of this Kingdom, divided them into 2 fleets, with one of which they sailed up the “River Lemen” and with the other under the command of —Hastings — their captain — they entered the mouth of the River Thames — and landed at the neighbouring town of Milton — where they built a castle called — Hemsleydown.

King Alfred — on receiving intelligence of these depredations marched his forces towards Kent and in order to stop their incursions built on the opposite, or eastern side of the creek, about a mile from the Danish intrenchments, a fortification part of the ditches of which, and some remains of Stonework are still to be seen at — Bayford Castle in this parish —————

John Northwood Esqʳ entertainedKing Henry V on his triumphant return from France at the “Red Lion Inn” in this town, and though the entertainment was befitting the royalty of his guests, yet such was the difference of the times, that the whole expense of it amounted only to 7/6 — “Wine being then sold at 2ᵈ per pint, other articles in proportion” ————

The aforesaid James Cooper Millwright and Engineer married at Chatham to Elizabeth Jones — who was born in Hertfordshire and by whom were 13 children10 sons and 3 daughters viz:—

Frederick Born… July 14ᵗʰ 1804

Jamˢ Wilkin at Sittingbʳᵏ. Augʳ 5ᵗʰ 1805 baptized 24ᵗʰ August

Elizabeth ……… Decʳ 13ᵗʰ 1806

Jane ……………… May 1ˢᵗ 1808

William ………… July 28ᵗʰ 1810

George ………… Septʳ 28ᵗʰ 1811

John ……………… Augʳ 1ˢᵗ 1813

Thomas ………… Febʳ 23ʳᵈ 1815

Edmund ………… Janʸ 11ᵗʰ 1817

Charles ………… Aprʳ 13ᵗʰ 1818

Harriett ………… March 9ᵗʰ 1821

Henry …………… Decʳ 6ᵗʰ 1822

Richard ………… Janʸ 16ᵗʰ 1825

Elizabeth Cooper — wife of the aforesaid James Cooper was born in Hertfordshire Febʳʸ 24ᵗʰ 1781 — Died Febʳʸ 5ᵗʰ 1827 —————Her revered remains are interred in….. St. Michaels ChurchyardSittingbourne. Kent………………

The church is a handsome structure consisting of nave, 2 chancels, 2 side aisles, with a tower at the W. end, which contains a clock, and a set of chimes…… In 1762 the wind being exceedingly high, a fire broke out under the roof of this church, occasioned by the plumbers, who were repairing the leads, having left their fires burning during their absence at dinner, which consumed the whole of it except the bare walls, and the tower.

By the fire most of the ancient monuments were destroyed as well as the gravestones, broken by the falling of the timbers.In rebuilding the church,many of gravestones were mostabsurdly removed from the graveon which they lay, to other partsof the church, and some wereeven brought from the churchyardto make the pavement completeso that now there is scarcely aguess to be made where thebodies are which the inscriptioncommemorates—

Burial Records:

• Fredrick Cooper – Died May 2nd 1811
• Jane Cooper – Died August 20th 1854
• William Cooper – Died March 4th 1846
• George Cooper – Died April 15th 1850

Explanation:This page laments the disrespectful relocation of gravestones during church renovations. As a result, the locations of the actual graves no longer correspond with the inscriptions. Then it lists four deceased Cooper family members.

• John Cooper – Died June 29th 1853
• Thos. Cooper – [no death date listed]
• Henry Cooper – Died November 14th 1864
  • Buried at “Rochester Cemetery”
  • Headstone inscription:
  • All you who come my grave to see
  • Prepare yourself to follow me
  • Repent in time: do not delay!
  • For I in haste was called away
• James Wilkin Cooper – Son of James and Elizabeth Cooper
  • Born at Sittingbourne, Aug 5th 1805
  • Baptised Nov 24th
  • Profession: Millwright and Engineer
  • Married cousin Mary Ann, daughter of John Cooper Esq., Resident Engineer of Dover Harbour
    • Mary Ann was born at Sittingbourne, April 22nd 1810
• Elizabeth Cooper – Married Mr. Buchell
  • Daughter: Georginia, born at Sittingbourne, Kent
• Jane Cooper – Married Mr. Parker
• William Cooper – Married Miss Charlotte Knight of Ipswich
• Thos. Cooper – Engineer, married Miss Dann
• Edmund – Engineer, married Miss Phoebe Mart
• Charles Cooper – Engineer
  • Married widow of his brother William
  • Residence: 12 Clover St, Chatham
  • Widow died Oct 28th 1869, aged 54, buried at Chatham Cemetery
  • Charles later married Eliza Cooper, cousin, of Oakley House, Clapham Park, daughter of Mr. Thomas Cooper, on Jan 4th 1872
• Richard Cooper – Married Miss Lessie, resided at Chatham

Explanation:Further family matches within the Cooper family and mentions of cousin marriages and professional associations.

• Richard and Miss Lessie had one son: Richard
• Harriett Cooper – Married Colonel Rains
  • Rains: widower, ex-Colonel of the 95th Regiment
  • Had a son from his first wife: Julius, and one daughter from Harriett: Harriett
• Mr. Lewis Jones, Gent. – Born 1746
  • Married Miss Coulter at either Twickfield or Huckfield
  • Died Jan 12th 1838, aged 92
  • Lived at Spitterfield Cottage, Wharf Lane, Maidstone
  • Buried at Union St, Maidstone

• Elizabeth Cooper – Late Jones, daughter of Lewis Jones
  • Born Feb 24th 1781, Baptised March 28th
  • Born at Hatfield
  • Married July 31st 1803 at Chatham Parish Church
  • Died Feb 3rd 1827 aged 46
  • Buried at Parish Church Yard, Sittingbourne

Children of Elizabeth:

• Fredrick Cooper – Born July 14th 1804 at Maidstone
• James Wilkin Cooper – Born August 18th 1805 at Sittingbourne, Kent
  • Married July 26th 1836 at St Mary’s, Dover, Kent

• Elizabeth Buchell – Late Cooper
  • Born Dec 17th 1806 at Sittingbourne, Kent
  • Married at St Anne, Limehouse, London, Sept 4th 1844
• Jane Parker – Late Cooper
  • Born May 1st 1808 at Sittingbourne, Kent
  • Married at Canterbury
  • Died Aug 20th 1854; husband died Aug 23rd 1854
  • Both buried at Devona, Turkey
• William Cooper – Born July 28th 1810 at Sittingbourne, Kent
  • Married Feb 4th 1843 at Stoke Damerel, Devon
  • Died March 13th 1846
  • Buried at Madras
• George Cooper – Born August 1st 1811 at Sittingbourne
  • Never married
  • Died April 15th 1850

Explanation:Documents migration, colonial links (Turkey and India), and family marriages abroad. Valuable for international genealogical tracing.

• John Cooper – Born Aug 1st 1813 at Sittingbourne
  • Unmarried
  • Died June 29th 1853
  • Buried at the Parish Churchyard, Kent
• Thomk (Thomas?) Cooper – Born Feb 23rd 1815 at Sittingbourne
  • Married at Maidstone
  • Died June 16th 1859
  • Buried at Rio de Janeiro
• Edmund Cooper – Born Jan 11th 1817 at Sittingbourne
  • Married at Sheerness, Kent
• Charles Cooper – Born 13th April… (entry continues on next page)

1818 at Sittingbourne Kent… married Novr 20ᵗʰ 1851 to Charlotte Cooper and late wife of William Cooper Esq.,Gillingham Kent, also to Eliza Cooper Janʸ 9ᵗʰ 1872Clapham Road… died Octʳ 28ᵗʰ 1869… buried at the cemetery Chatham…

Harriett Rains… late CooperBorn March 19ᵗʰ 1821 at Sittingbourne Kent… marriedSeptʳ 18ᵗʰ 1850 at Marylebone, County of Middlesex… diedSeptʳ 26ᵗʰ 1879 at the Rectory, Hansey in Ridware nearRugeley Staffordshire… buriedat Windsor Cemetery…

Henry Cooper… Born Decr 6ᵗʰ1822 at Sittingbourne Kent…not married… Died Novʳ 14ᵗʰ1864… buried at RochesterCemetery…

Richard Cooper… Born Jany16ᵗʰ 1825 at Sittingbourne Kent…married July 12ᵗʰ 1857 at theparish Church Chatham…

James Cooper… The father ofthe above children… BornOctʳ 15ᵗʰ 1781 at Cranbrook…Married at Chatham ParishChurch, Chatham Kent, onJuly 31ˢᵗ 1803…

The aforesaid James Cooperdied June 21ˢᵗ 1841 at Sittingbourne,and was buried at SittingbourneCemetery…

Unnumbered Page (facing XLVIII)

Edward, Susan & Fredrick are children of these

Jane Pigram… late Jones andsister to Eliza Cooper… the followingare her children… Born 2ⁿᵈ June1787… Married Septʳ 11ᵗʰ 1809 at St. Martin in the Field,Middlesex… Died July 11ᵗʰ 1828Age 41 years at East Farleigh…interred at East Farleigh…

Edward Pigram… Born 19ᵗʰApril 1816 at Maidstone…married on Decʳ 12ᵗʰ 1836 atBarling near Maidstone…

Susan Pigram…

Fredrick Robert Pigram… Born Sept 16ᵗʰ 1819… married on Sept 22ⁿᵈ 1857 at Trinity Church,Borough, London…

The following is a short piece which appeared in the“Chronicle and Kent and Sussex Advertiser” on SaturdayJune 20ᵗʰ 1874:—

*Death of Colonel Raines, Military Knight of Windsor.*

We exceedingly regret to announcethat Colonel Joseph RobertRains, one of the few survivorsof the Peninsular War, a Military Knight of Windsor,died at his residence, WindsorCastle, on Sunday (14ᵗʰ), at the advanced age of 84.

Colonel Rains—who belonged to an ancientYorkshire family, entered the army as ensign in the 82ⁿᵈFoot in 1808, and in that corps was present at the battles of Roliça, Vimeira, andCorunna, and many minoractions during the retreat. He served also at Walcheren, and underwent long and arduous employment for 45 years in all quarters of the globe. He received the brevet to wear the decorationof St Louis from the French Government of Louis XVIII for important services while Military Secretary to the Government of Martinique during the occupation by the British force of that island in 1815, previous to Waterloo.

During the Crimean War,Colonel Raines was appointed Commandant of the Swiss Legion at Dover in 1855, with the rank of full colonel, and since then he has retired from further active life after a long service in the army of close onhalf a century. Two of his brothers, Edward and William,were killed in active service, the former, a Captain in the Army, at St Lucie in 1806, and the latter, a Lieutenant in the Navy, at Alexandria in 1801, on board the Foudroyant,taken from the French. Colonel Raines was a yearly visitor to Dover, and was highlyhonored and esteemed by his wide circle of brother officers, friends, and acquaintances.

From a Contributor Colonel Raines was a widelyknown in Dover as having,a quarter of a century since, commanded the 95ᵗʰ Regiment in this garrison, and subsequently as Commandant of the Swiss Legion, and an annual visitor to our town. Few veterans saw more distinguished service than Colonel Raines. He was at the Battle of Maida Hill, and was one of the surviving officers of Sir John Moore’s gallant army in the desperate fighting in the retreat of Corunna. He was one of the last who embarked, and almost the last shot fired by the enemy broke his leg whilst in the boat on his way to the transports that rescued that comparatively small band of heroes who saved the honour of the British arms in the Peninsula.

There was not a more gallant comrade, a devoted friend, and his frank and genial presence will be missed in many a quarter. He was an able writer on military questions, and in later days anonymously did us as good service by his able advocacy and support of all that appertained to the welfare of the army as he did by his gallantry in the field.Colonel Raines has left a son and a daughter; the former is Major-General Raines, C.B., one of the principal of his rank, who has also won honour and distinction in his father’s profession in the Crimea and in India; his latest active employment having been, remarkably enough, in command of his father’s old regiment, the 95th.

Saturday Augst 21st 1869. Colonel Raines, of the Knights of Windsor, and his son Colonel Julius Raines, C.B., have been guests of Mr. J.G. Churchward at Kearsney Abbey during the past week. The son who commands the regiment his father commanded – the 95th – at Toona, returns to India in a few days.

The Army Major-General Raines, C.B., assumed command of the Toona division on the 7th ult. General Raines has appointed Captain C.C. Churchward, 16th Lancers to be his aide-de-camp while he remains in command of the division. Captain Churchward left Kearsney Abbey, Dover, for India, on Tuesday (yesterday) morning.

Mr. J.J. Powell, Q.C., formerly M.P. for Gloucester, and Colonel Raines have been guests at Kearsney Abbey during the past week.

Colonel Raines and Miss Raines have arrived in Dover from Windsor, and will stay at 11 Castle Street for a short time.

In consequence of the period of service on the Brigade Staff, of Brigadier General Raines C.B., having expired on the 21st instant, Brigadier General J.W. Dunville is confirmed in the appointment as a General Brigadier of the first class. Brigadier General Raines C.B. will continue in command of the Toona Division, with the rank of Brigadier General.

The above are all cuttings out of different newspapers.

Annie … daughter of Mr. Bruckel was adopted by Colonel Raines of Windsor Castle, she married Mons. Joseph Leon Luis Florentine (Ver) Hulst. “Brussels”

John Cooper Esqre. … Resident

William Henry Cooper… July 31st 1826 at Dover, Kent

The aforesaid… “Charlotte Cooper”… died on Novr 28th 1826

Also… “John Barnes Cooper”… son who departed this life… July 29th 1833 aged 13 yrs. and both the revered remains of whom are interred in St. Marys Churchyard, Dover… Kent

The Church of St Mary… is a large handsome edifice, which prior to the alterations made in 1804 consisted of nave, side aisles, and 3 transepts, it has a fine old Tower in which are 8 bells, a clock, and chimes, and is built of flint with quoins of ashlar stone. The exterior walls which in the former edifice were similar to those of the Tower, have been ornamented with a mixture of flint, and the angles of the structure beautified with turrets, the eastern window in 3 compartments is enriched with geometrical tracery, and is a beautiful specimen of superior workmanship. The Tower, and Vestry are the only portions of the building that remain in their original state.

This Church is said to have been built in the year 1216.

The aforesaid… John Cooper Esq .married the widow of “Lieut Vincent Webb” of the “Royal Navy” who died Oct 30th 1813 Aged 38 years and his revered remains are interred in St Marys Churchyard, Dover

The maiden name of the aforesaid wife and widow of Lieut Vincent Webb of Royal Navy was Nancy Watson — daughter of Stephen and Elizabeth Watson, who resided in Dover and the above “Elizabeth” died April 21st 1829 aged 85 years  also Stephen Watson who died Jany 22nd 1838 aged 85 yrs. and both the revered remains of whom are interred in St Marys Churchyard, Dover in the same grave with those of the aforesaid “Lieut Vincent Webb”. Also 4 babes of the aforesaid Stephen & Elizabeth Watson

The aforesaid Mrs. Nancy Webb, widow of Lieut Vincent Webb who married the aforesaid John Cooper Esq., Resident Engineer, Dover Harbour… she died Oct 28th 1859 aged 78 years at “Dobson Terrace, Kennington, London” and her revered remains are interred in Tooting Cemetery, Surrey, Lambeth

Also… John Cooper Esq. who was born April 21st 1784… died June 12th 1864 and whose revered remains are interred at Tooting Cemetery… Surrey, Lambeth, London.

Cooper – June 12th at Kennington, John Cooper Esq., late Resident Engineer, Dover Harbour, aged 78. (cutting from paper)

The aforesaid Nancy Cooper (Webb) had surviving by her first husband Lieut Vincent Webb, Royal Navy six sons viz:

• Edward
• Vincent, named after and agreeable to the wish of “Earl Vincent”
• John Dougan
• Arthur Kelly
• Robert Winthrop, named after and agreeable to the wish of Admiral Winthrop
• Henry Tarry

Major Edward Webb of the 33rd Regiment, brother to Lieut Vincent Webb of the Royal Navy married the “Heiress” “Lady Anna Maria Montague Baker” and soon after this marriage whom, was called to battle in which he died.

Mrs Jane Webb, mother of the 2 aforesaid sons… Major Edward Webb 33rd Regt., and Lieut Vincent Webb, Royal Navy, resided at Tavistock Street, Plymouth. Her father was in the Court of George III, and with whom she had an audience.

The aforesaid “Lady Anna Maria Montague Baker” resided with the aforesaid “Mrs. Jane Webb” and at her death bequeathed to her the plate appertaining to herself which was valued at £1500

William Henry Cooper, son of the aforesaid John Cooper Esq. and Charlotte his wife, married Adelaide Sggleeden to whom was born 1 daughter viz Adelaide

Matilda, daughter of the aforesaid John Cooper Esq., married the 4th son of Lieut Vincent Webb viz Robert Winthrop Webb

Anne, also daughter of the aforesaid John Cooper Esq., married Mr. Robert Uomar by whom were 9 children, 3 of whom died, six now surviving namely: Sarah, John, Annie, Robert, Minnie, Eugene, and Jane

Mary Ann, eldest daughter of the aforesaid John Cooper Esq., married the 3rd son of the aforesaid Lieut Vincent Webb, Royal Navy who was named John Dougan Webb, and to whom was born 1 daughter viz Jane named after her Grandma“Mrs Jane Webb”; she died in her infancy and her remainsare interred in the Grave with those of her Grandpa “Lieut Vincent Webb.” The aforesaid John Dougan Webb waseducated at the Royal Mathematical School Christ’s Hospital “founded by His Majesty King Charles II.” Every honor which the School afforded was bestowed upon John Dougan Webb, who entered at 7 yrs of age. He was first proficient in Drawing for which he received the “GoldenMedal,” having passed the Trinity House where is a specimen of his ability… A Ship. I hope you and Mr. Bagley have quite recovered from your illness.

With love I remain
Yours sincerely
R. A. Shuttleworth

22 July 91Warwick

Dear Mrs Bagley

Many thanks for the use of the book. I have been through it several times, and find it very interesting. What a large and old family we belong to, to be sure.

When I was four years old my Father took me to see several of his Uncles, and his two Aunts – Hester, and Avery – My Sister

saw Uncle John Cooperhis wife and two daughtersabout 22 years ago. Doyou know if they (the daughters)are living now?

In the book you will findpieces of paper with thepages and lines markedor rather underlined on themwhere I think you will findthe entries have beencorrectly copied.

Referring to one of CousinLucy’s letters, I find shesays her mother was themiddle sister – Mrs Avery

The eldest I expect was young

Grandma the youngest,but she does not give theirChristian names.

In your list you have myGrandma (Elizabeth) as themiddle one, and furtheron you will find the namesof the other two are reversed.

If I were well off, youshould like to take a journeyall round, and see thedifferent places whereour relatives lived, andthe churches where theyare lain.

Once more letme thank you for lendingme the book.

I hope you and Mr. Bagleyhave quite recoveredfrom your illness.

With loveI remainYours sincerelyR. A. Shuttleworth

Letter from R. A. Shuttleworth to Mrs. Bagley

Warwick, 22 July 1891

Dear Mrs. Bagley,

Many thanks for the use of the book. I have been through it several times, and find it very interesting. What a large and old family we belong to, to be sure.

When I was four years old, my father took me to see several of his uncles, and his two aunts – Hester and Avery. My sister saw Uncle John Cooper, his wife, and two daughters about 22 years ago. Do you know if they (the daughters) are living now?

In the book you will find pieces of paper with the pages and lines underlined, where I think you will find the entries have been correctly copied.

Referring to one of Cousin Lucy’s letters, I find she says her mother was the middle sister – Mrs. Avery. The eldest, I expect, was young Grandma, and the youngest Elizabeth; but she [Lucy] does not give their Christian names.

In your list, you have my Grandma (Elizabeth) as the middle one, and further on you will find the names of the other two are reversed.

If I were well off, I should like to take a journey all round and see the different places where our relatives lived, and the churches where they are lain.

Once more let me thank you for lending me the book.

I hope you and Mr. Bagley have quite recovered from your illness.

With love,I remain,Yours sincerely,R. A. Shuttleworth

[Instruction enclosed]

Please send this with the book.

Letter from R. A. Shuttleworth to Mrs. Bagley

3 Broad Street, WarwickSeptember 17, 1891

Dear Mrs. Bagley,

I received your letter this morning, and thank you for your kind invitation for my daughter.But before forwarding it to her, I must tell you I think you mistake the Mr. George Cooper (my dear Father); he was not a brother of your Father’s, but a son of your Father’s sister Elizabeth.

Whilst writing, I may tell you that my sister and I have corresponded for nine years with Mr. Cooper of Jamaica, and in his last letter he told us (and requested us to inform the other members of the family) of the death of his brother George Cooper, some few months before he wrote.

Will you kindly write again, as I wish you to know who I am before I tell my daughter to call.I feel sure you would like her if you saw her.

Hoping you have benefited by and enjoyed your holidays.With love,I remain,Yours truly,R. A. Shuttleworth

The Cooper Family Lineage and Events

(Extracted and cleaned from the original family record chart)

1. Grandfather: James Cooper

• Born: 1746, Eltham, Kent
• Baptised: December 1746
• Married: Anne Caroline Arckoll
• Children: Numerous (see below)
• Buried: 1 December 1814, aged 68, St. Mary’s, Lewisham
• Remarks: “Waggoner in trust for Arckoll’s estate”; died intestate.

2. James Cooper (Son of the above)

• Born: 1774, Eltham
• Married: Hannah Nicholson
• Died: 26 July 1852, aged 78
• Residence: 18 Bexley Place, Lee
• Buried: 30 July 1852, Nunhead Cemetery
• Remarks: Father of many listed below.

3. Hannah Nicholson (Wife of James Cooper, above)

• Born: 4 November 1778, at Edmonton
• Died: 28 March 1862
• Buried: Nunhead Cemetery
• Remarks: Married James Cooper (son of the elder James Cooper).

Children of James Cooper and Hannah Nicholson

a. Elizabeth Buckell (née Cooper)

• Born: 13 October 1806
• Married: St. Anne’s, Limehouse
• Died: Not stated
• Burial: Not recorded

b. John Cooper

• Born: 10 August 1808
• Baptised: All Saints, Poplar
• Married: 20 August 1836 to Eliza Wrixon
• Died: 26 March 1880
• Buried: Nunhead Cemetery

c. William Cooper

• Born: 26 December 1810
• Baptised: All Saints, Poplar
• Married: St. Dunstan’s Stepney
• Died: 9 July 1843
• Buried: Nunhead

d. George Cooper

• Born: 1812, Eltham
• Died: Unknown date, presumed in Jamaica
• Remarks: Mentioned in correspondence from Jamaica; likely deceased by 1891.

e. John Cooper (Second with this name)

• Born: 5 August 1813
• Baptised: Eltham
• Married: 9 January 1853, to Elizabeth (surname not stated)
• Buried: 16 January 1853, at Eltham
• Remarks: Died shortly after marriage.

f. Thomas Cooper

• Born: 23 September 1815
• Baptised: Eltham
• Married: in Manchester
• Died: 10 August 1869
• Buried: 6 March 1872, in Rio Bueno, Jamaica

g. Emanuel Cooper

• Born: 26 October 1817
• Baptised: Eltham
• Residence: Richmond, Kent
• Died: Not stated

h. Caroline Cooper

• Born: 13 March 1819
• Baptised: Eltham
• Married: 2 February 1845, to Alfred Blake
• Died: 18 October 1874
• Buried: Chatham
• Remarks: Buried with her daughter Catherine Blake

i. Harriet Louisa Cooper

• Born: 14 March 1821
• Married: Charles Raine, 8 April 1850, at St. Pancras
• Died: 6 October 1890
• Buried: Nunhead Cemetery

j. Julia Cooper

• Born: 18 August 1822
• Died: 15 July 1859
• Buried: Chatham

k. Lucy Cooper

• Born: 1830
• Died: Not recorded
• Remarks: Listed as single

Grandchildren (Selected Records Noted in Final Columns)

Edward Cooper

• Born: 16 October 1857
• Married: 23 December 1885, to Constance Evelyn Blake (of Charles Blake, R.E.)
• Died: 27 August 1937
• Buried: Sidcup, Footscray Cemetery

Letter from R. A. Shuttleworth to Mrs. Bagley

3 Broad Street, Warwick22 July 1891

Dear Mrs. Bagley,

Many thanks for the use of the book. I have been through it several times and find it very interesting. What a large and old family we belong to, to be sure.

When I was four years old, my father took me to see several of his uncles, and his two aunts – Hester and Avery. My sister saw Uncle John Cooper, his wife, and two daughters about 22 years ago. Do you know if the daughters are still living?

In the book, you will find pieces of paper with pages and lines underlined where I believe the entries have been correctly copied. Referring to one of Cousin Lucy’s letters, she says her mother was the middle sister – Mrs. Avery. The eldest, I expect, was young Grandma; the youngest Elizabeth. She does not give their Christian names.

In your list, you have my Grandma (Elizabeth) as the middle one, and further on the names of the other two are reversed.

If I were well off, I should like to take a journey all round and see the different places where our relatives lived, and the churches where they are laid.

Once more, let me thank you for lending me the book.

I hope you and Mr. Bagley have quite recovered from your illness.

With love,
I remain,
Yours sincerely,
R. A. Shuttleworth

[Enclosed note]

Please send this with the book.