Person:John Hill (221)

In 1716 John HILL leased out the mining rights under Grindstone and Allard’s Ham. This was the land between the Hallatrow-Paulton Road and the Cam brook, almost opposite the entrance to Butts Lane: Extract of Indenture dated 15 Oct 3 George [1716] between John HILL of Hallatrough (1), Mr John PURNELL of High Littleton, George CARTER of Charlton, Kilmersdon & Henry GREGORY of Paulton (2). Whereby HILL (1) allows (2) to dig for coal etc. in certain lands, namely: Grinstone, Hooked Meade and Alardsham (7 acres) for 21 years from next lady day at £7.15/- p.a. (Sgd) George CARTER, John PURNELL, Henry GREGORY. Witnesses Cha’s STEPHENS, Thomas THRESHER. (SRO DD/MGG/2).

The manor of Hallatrow remained in the HILL family until the early 18th century. When John HILL died his Hallatrow estate was left to his four daughters, whose husbands put it up for sale. Amongst the prospective purchasers was Joseph LANGTON of Newton Park, Newton St. Loe. LANGTON commissioned a survey of the estate in 1716, from which it is obvious that coalmining activity was or had been going on before then. Amongst the details were: Survey of Hallatrow Farm, 1716 Schedule of land and property including: Coale Pitt Ground Pasture 3 acres Value £2 per acre (1720 in 2 closes) Whole estate 135½ acres let to James COLLINS @ £90 p.a. For timber & Coale £100 + 3 tenements & closes let to others Value of timber, Coale & Herriotts £10 (S1)

1.   Coalmining in Hallatrow.

   www.highlittletonhistory.org.uk/.../Mining/HallatrowCoalmining.pdf (accessed 18.7.2012)

2. ↑ ^2.0 2.1 Munday/Hill/Aldridge Family Tree.