In the spring of 1771, Edward Babb—a baker of Rickmansworth in Hertfordshire—set his affairs in order with a will that offers a modest yet meaningful glimpse into the life and legacy of a tradesman in Georgian England. Though infirm in body, Babb’s mind remained sharp as he distributed his worldly goods with care: a single guinea to his brother, household furnishings to a niece, and the remainder of his estate to his wife, Mary. This document, sealed just weeks before his death, reflects not only the familial bonds of the time but also the legal and social customs that shaped inheritance among England’s working class.
Transcription:
In the Name of God Amen I Edward Babb of Rickmansworth in the County of Hertford[shire], Baker, being infirm in Body but of sound Mind, Memory and understanding (Blessed be Almighty God for the same), do make, publish, and declare this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following:
That is to say, I give and bequeath unto my loving Brother William Babb one Guinea [21 shillings, or one Pound and one Shilling] to be paid him by my Executrix hereinafter mentioned immediately after my decease.
I give unto Elizabeth Howse, Daughter of my Sister Mary Babb, all my Household Goods, provided she shall pay unto Mary Howse her Sister five pounds within twelve months after my decease.
All the rest, residue, and remainder of my Goods, Chattels, personal Estate, both real and personal whatsoever or wheresoever, I give, devise, and bequeath unto my loving wife Mary Babb (after payment of all such debts as I shall owe at the time of my decease), whom I do hereby appoint sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament. And I revoke all former Wills by me at any time heretofore made. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand
and seal this seventh day of May 1771.
Ed. Babb
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Signed sealed published and declared by the said Edward Babb as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who in his presence and at his request have subscribed our names as witnesses hereof.
Jos. Skidmore
John Parker
This Will was proved at London the eleventh day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy one before the Worshipful William Compton Doctor of Laws and Surrogate of the Right Worshipful George Hay Doctor of Laws Master Keeper of Commissary of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury lawfully constituted by the Oath of Mary Babb Widow the Relict of this said deceased and sole Executrix named in this said Will to whom Administration was granted of all and singular, The Goods Chattels, and Credits, Of this said deceased having been first sworn duly to administer.
The Tree
Edward is the son of person #2 in the file below. He is the second child, of his father Edward.
Source: Will of Edward Babb, Baker of Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire | The National Archives