Person:William Stretcher (2)

William Stretcher was baptised in the parish of Willian, Hertfordshire on 24th November 1566. He appears to have been one of at least nine children of a John Stretcher. The parish registers at this time did not record mother's names.

Aged about 27, William married a Margaret North. Together, they had five children, although two of these died as infants and another died aged 14, leaving only two who survived to adulthood.

William worked as a blacksmith and left a will. He lived to see his son James married and saw four grandchildren, all of whom were baptised at Willian. On 21st December 1630, he wrote his will, being "sick in body". He left only half a crown to his son James, who he had already provided for. The remainder of his property was left to his wife Margaret and younger son George.

William was buried five days after writing his will, on 26th December 1630, aged 64. His will was proved at Hitchin on 20th January 1630/1. An inventory of his possessions was taken.

1. ↑ Church of England. Willian Parish Registers.

   ch. 24 Nov 1566, Willian, Hertfordshire: William son of John Stretcher

2. ↑ Church of England. Willian Parish Registers.

   bur. 26 Dec 1630, Willian, Hertfordshire: William Stretcher the elder

3. ↑ ^3.0 3.1 Wills 1413-1857, in Hertfordshire Archives and Local Studies. Hertfordshire Names Online.

   Name: William Stretcher
   Date: 20 Jan 1630/1
   Place: Willian
   Occupation: smith
   Doc type: filed will
   Doc ref: inventory 116HW16
   Transcript of will available at Your Archives