Foul Play Suspected

Whilst working on the Vestry Minutes for Stanford Rivers recently, I came across a piece of paper that appears to have provided a meal for the church mouse. However, on reading it—or the bits that were left—I discovered dastardly deeds afoot in Stanford Rivers.

To the Minister, Churchwardens and Overseers and to the Constables and other officers of the parish of Stanford Rivers in the County of Essex.

Whereas complain hath been made unto me one of His Majesty’s Coroners of the said County of Essex that on the first day of June instant the body of one William Freshwater was buried in your parish and that there…… to suspect that the said William Freshwater died other than a natural death.

These are therefore by virtue……… His Majesty’s name to charge and command……… forthwith cause the body of said William Freshwater…… taken up and safely secured in order that I with my……… may have a view thereof and proceed therein acc(ording)…… day of …. June and…… thirty………

Given under my hand
Robert Bartlett.

A check on the burial register for St Margaret’s reveals that a William Freshwater, 48, of Sesslands—or possibly Cesslands—was buried on 7 June 1830.

How the story ended remains a mystery. Was William murdered? Perhaps some further research will reveal all.