THE RASH FAMILY:
From church records the Rash family first make an appearance at East Dereham in the early 1600's, there is a burial record for a 'Widow Rash' dated Feb 14th 1633. Then in 1688 another burial record of a Jane Rash, widow. A John Rash, baker, appears in Manorial Court Rolls (in Latin) in 1628 and was fined 5 shillings for selling bread country to the assize. Bread had to be sold in weight and price according to the prices of wheat on the last market day. Was John the husband of one of these ladies?
Much of the early parish records do not give a trade, or sadly their ages, however, later there are notes beside some entries reading, Worsted/Linen Weavers, Flour Dealers and Brewers. Most prominent of them all is Samuel Rash (1716) on whom we have much, he was the must prominent of the family, he was an Attorney of Law and Magistrate in Dereham and Norfolk. Samuel was apprenticed to a top attorney in London where he gained his qualifications. By 1685 there were more frequent entries of baptisms of the children of Robert and Elizabeth Rash, and also a John and his wife Mary, however we have no marriages for either ---- Robert and John were probably brothers and from an apprenticeship document in 1728 we know one was in the Linen trade, which could be and indication of how they acquired their wealth although Worsted and Linen were now in sharpe decline, however later we learn he was a Flour-Dealer. We don't have much on these two families apart from baptism and death records and these records only bare the minimum of details. Did the Rashe's come from Norwich? ----- Up until the mid 1500's, the Norwich Worsted weaving industry was thriving but slowly went into decline, meaning traders had to take to the towns and villages to earn a living or diversify into other trades. From all accounts the Rash's were very wealthy people and very promenant in the town and attended the parish church of St Nicholas, near the market place, where there are several floor-slabs and wall-memorial bearing their name. Samuel Rash (1716) was a church-warden. One wall-memorial for Thomas Rash (1688) and his wife Thomasine gives us a quite a story of how he made an easy fortune with honour and integrity as a brewer and left behind him the character of an honest man. We know the family had a business called 'South Green Brewery' on the outskirts of the town, a site now aptly called Rashes Green. In the early 1800's the business was taken over by the Bidwell family of Thetford --- The Rash's were distantly connected to the Bidwell's through Elizabeth Shelford the wife of Samuel (1716). Elizabeth had a sister Sarah who married Woodford Bidwell, a brewer of Thetford in 1743. They had a son Shelford, baptised on September 11th 1754, also at Thetford. He went on to marry Mary Rawling of Kings Lynn on April 6th 1778. They had children one being Sarah, baptised April 20th 1780 at Thetford, who in 1794 after the death of Samuel Rash (1716) benefited £20 from his Will ---- During the 1700's the Rash’s Green brewery evolved into the major Dereham brewery ---- It is documented that the Rash’s Green brewery evolved into the major Dereham brewery and this made it attractive to larger brewers, and a possible target for takeover. However the more likely story is it was sold or transferred in or by Will to the Bidwell family, for as we know the Bidwell's had become very much part of the Rash family who toward the late 1700's ran out of male heirs, Thomas (1688) had died in 1760, John (1700) in 1787, John 1732, in 1788 and then Samuel (1716) in 1794. The Bidwells became the major brewing family in Dereham and remained so until the 1890s, when a complicated series of sales broke up the company. Bidwell’s had owned well over 20 public houses in the area.

Side elevation of QUEBEC HALL

For more on QUEBEC HALL and its history - click HERE

One property built by the Rash family was, what is known today as QUEBEC HALL. It is sited on the Dereham to North Elmham road about half a mile from the town and what was then called Stanton heath a site previously used by the Military Volunteer’s as a camping ground. The property started its life as a puplic Inn called then QUEBEC CASTLE. The original building did in fact resemble a 'Castle' as it's roof-line had parapets and battlements as seen in the picture. Early records do in fact confirm it was an Inn, they also state the property was built for Samuel Rash (1716) in about 1759, however an inn or public-house, or anything to do with brewing and or the selling of alcohol was quite foreign to his trade and profession as he was a successful and renowned local Attorney and Magistrate. The more likely is Thomas Rash (1688), Samuel's uncle, who actually did acquire a considerable fortune in Dereham as a brewer. However Thomas died in the June of 1760, so is it possible Samuel or Thomas's younger brother John (1701) finished it off or tried to make it a going concern. However the story goes it was built by one of the 'Rash' family in or about 1759, albeit on a much lesser scale then we see it today. Much of the additions were added later by the Lee-Warner and Bulwer familys in the 1800's. It is not known, and no records have been found to say if any member of the Rash family actually lived there ------ The question has to be asked, if it was Samuel who built it, WHY would he want to build an Inn. Could be that it was built as a hunting-lodge to entertain their friends and clients, as from all accounts the Rash's were all living in the town at the time. Whatever the reason it was short lived for in 1767 it appeared in the newspapers To-Let as a Public-Inn (details below). The story also goes the property, originally known as 'QUEBEC-CASTLE' was given its name in compliment to Brigadier General George Townshend who was engaged in the siege of Quebec, Canada which took place on September 13th 1759. It is known Samuel and George Townshend were well acquainted, for there are letters between them during Lords Townshends' electioneering plus, Townsend's home, Raynham Hall is less then 15 mile from Dereham ---- Townshead was born on February 28th 1724, the son of Charles Townshend, 3rd Viscount Townshend and his wife Audrey Ethelreda Townshend (née Harrison). George Townshend was elected Member of Parliament for Norfolk unopposed in 1747. He died at his family home, Raynham Hall in Norfolk on 14 September 1807 and was buried in the family vault there ---- There was another Thomas Rash (1700), who on the baptism of one of his children in 1740 had a note beside the entry of 'Captain', could he have been serving under Townshead and was there some patriotism to the man. He died in the June of 1759 at Dereham so we do known he was not at Quebec

Samuel was born about 1716 the son of Robert Rash (1686) and his wife Elizabeth Margetson. No birth record have been found for him but his relationship to his parents is confirmed in a wall-memorial in St Nicholas church. Robert and Elizabeth were married at Hoe, a hamlet near Dereham, on February 12th, 1715. It is possible Samuel was also born there as there is three years from his parents marriage to the first baptism record at St Nicholas which appears in the October of 1718. Samuel had several siblings but most died in infancy apart from a sister Anna Penelope who died in 1743 age 25 and brother Robert, who died in 1738 age 18, both are mentioned in a wall-memorial in St Nicholas. Another is John (1732) who became a priest who is covered later. We assume Samuel received private schooling and then properly a college as he was not apprenticed until he was 19. He was first placed with John Le Grys an Attorney at Norwich for the sum of £50. Two years later he went to London with Ambrose Kedington an Attorney at Furnivals Inn, now part of Camden district, in 1737, this time for £56. On June 24th, 1744 he married Dorothy Fuller a spinster of Petterborough, however things did not go well for the couple for in 1748 Samuel applied to parliament for a divorce owing to Dorothy having lived a disorderly and dissolute life with widower James Mingay Surgeon. As James Mingay was a surgeon at Thetford in Norfolk we assume Samuel and Dorothy had now moved to the town sometime before. After three sittings to hear the Bill the divorce was granted on July 11th. Dorothy did in fact go on to marry James Mingay at Thetford on April 15th 1759, and they had children. James Mingay, not only being a surgeon of Thetford was also Mayor of the town, but life was not always sweet for them for in 1785 their second daughter Elizabeth was found drowned in Mr Gill's mill-pool. She had been very low spirited for a considerable time. They also had a son, also named James, who was born in 1752. He became quite a prominent figure, becoming a King’s Bench Barrister, obtaining fees of 5,000 guineas in his best year ------- It appears the divorce could have been amicable as Samuel continued to live and work at Thetford for the next two years. On July 14th 1750, he married at Elevden, (a village just outside Thetford) to the spinster Elizabeth Shelford. Shortly after they moved to Dereham where their first daughter Elizabeth was born in 1753, followed by Sarah Penelope, about 1761, for which there are no records, then another daughter Charlotte in 1766. Two years later in 1768, Samuel's wife died - In a wall memorial in St Nicholas, it gives some indcation of Elizabeth's issues "her life (even from the youth upwards) was almost one continued scene of pain, and bodily infirmities; which she sustained with a degree of patience and resignation, and with a cheerfulness, rarely to be seen in a person so much afflicted." Samuel never re-married. His career is was well recorded as a local Magistrate as many local court-cases and articles contain his name giving judgment and sentence. No records have come to light on the early life of his children or who looked after them. Records also show apart from QUEBEC HOUSE Samuel also owned properties in the town called 'St James' and 'Whitehall.' The distinctive names, we would assume he brought from his time living in London ------ Some local literature found today state Samuel was a 'Brewery Baron.' There is no evidence of this, however it is not to say he could not have had a financial interest in his families business's. As mentioned above there is definite proof that Thomas (1688) was the Brewer, he also had a brother, John (1701), who died age 85, a bachelor and from all accounts a very wealthy man. Nothing is know of his trade at this time but it is possible the brothers worked together. - In 1786 Samuel precented a large oak cheast to St Nicholals church for the purpose of keeping safe all thier records and documents. Tradition says this curious chest and lock was thern 400 years old; it was taken from the ruins of Buckenham Castle, and many years since the property of the noble family of the Howard's, dukes of Norfolk, and supposed to be used by them for for depositing their money and other valuables. one history books reads "Samuel was known as “Justice” Rash, he was a JP and who was an influential member of the local society - South Green, used to be Rashes Green, so-called after him.

St Nicholas Church - document chest donated by Samuel Rash in 1786

Samuel Rash died at Shipdham in 1794, he was buried on February 5th, his remains lye buried near the porch at the east of St Nicholas, there is a wall memorial to him and his parent in the church ------ On April 5th of that year his house and properties we advertised for sale, QUEBEC HOUSE was not one of them - more can be found in his profile BELOW.

It is thought Samuel's daughter Elizabeth (1753) never married and died at the young age of 31 in 1784.
Sarah Penelope (1761) married the Rev George Payley a bachelor, who's family are mentioned in Burke’s - The Landed Gentry - Paley of Langcliffe and Ampton.
Charlotte (1766) married Porter Bringloe, surgeon, on Feb 7th 1797 at the parish church at Hingham, Norfolk. Porter was baptised in July 4th 1752 at Hingham, Norfolk son of Mr Capel Bringloe ------ Porter Bringloe was the surgeon for Hingham for over 40 years.

Then there is Samuel's brother John Rash born in 1732. ----- In the Biographical History of Conville and Caius College, dated 1751/2: Mar 10, ---- John Rash is on record, the son of Robert Rash, flour dealer, of East Dereham. Born there. Schools, Scarning, five years, under Mr Brett; and Norwich a year and half, under Mr Welton, age 18 --- Admitted pensioner. BA 1756, Scholar, Mich 1752 to Mich 1759. Ordained deacon Norwich Feb 19th 1758; as curate of Stanfield: priest (do), August 14th 1783. Probably incumbant of Sprowston July - September 1787 ------ John who would now be about 41 married Martha Marsh (daughter of Charles Marsh) on March 22nd 1773 at Tombland Norwich. Martha was baptised on October 28th 1741 at St George Church, Tombland, Norwich, daughter of Charles Marsh and Elizabeth Fermanteel his wife. She was also baptised at the Octagon Unitarian Chapel, Norwich on November 30th 1741 - Charles is described as a Worsted Weaver ----- Martha died on Saturday September 9th 1815 at Norwich - John died at Norwich age 74 about 1825

There is also a Mary Rash - She has become rather tantalisng, as we don't know who she is and how she fits in. However she could be the daughter of John Rash and Mary his wife. What we do know is, in 1733 Mary Rash (Mrs) married Thomas George, Gent, Lord of the Manor of Dereham, son of the late Asty George, Gent and Weaver ----- Mary is recorded as 'Mrs' although no widow is apparent in the parish records to hand, so this was a little confusing. However on investigation it is found, in the middle of the eighteenth century, 'Mrs' did not describe a married woman: it described a woman who governed subjects (i.e., employees or servants or apprentices) or a woman who was skilled or who taught. It described a social, rather than a marital status – when it wasn't being used metaphorically. So where does Mary fit in?

Thomas Rash was born about 1688, the possible son of Robert Rash and Elizabeth Kitmar and was uncle to Samuel. From all accounts Thomas did very well for himself, he was a Brewer who acquired an easy fortune with honour and integrity and left behind him the character of an honest man. Thomas a bachelor married Thomasin Gallant (nee Waller) a widow of Dereham. They married on March 16th 1725 at Norwich Cathedral ---- Thomasin Waller a spinster had married John Gallant, Gent on June 5th 1710 at St Peter and St Paul Church Scarning. It appears they never had children. John died in 1723 and was buried on Aug 5th at St Nicholas Churchyard East Dereham. He was recorded as ‘MR’ John Gallant. Thomas and Thomasine had one daughter, Sarah, born in 1727. Sarah died in her 14th year in 1742. Her mother Thomasine died three years later in her 51st year in 1745 and Thomas in 1760 in his 73rd year ----- It could be the proceeds of his wealth was left to his bachelor brother John (1701), mentioned above ---- MORE on the Rash Family, records, family profiles and souces of information can be found below.

We start with two court records of a John Rash a baker who could be the father of Robert and John below - records could turn up someday.
1628: East Dereham of the Queen - Extracts from Manorial Court Rolls. (In Latin) - John Rash sold bread country to the assize. He was fined 5 shillings - Bread had to be sold in weight and price according to the prices of wheat on the last market day.

1635: A number of millers were presented for the selling of flour in the market by unlawful measures within the precincts of the leete. Fined ¾ d each.

ROBERT RASH born?
Son of unknown - maybe brother to John below

Robert Rash was born?
Robert married Elizabeth unknown

1670: East Dereham was severely damaged by fire, in July, with 170 houses being destroyed

There is a records of a child baptisms (below) with a Robert and Elizabeth as parents. No other records are found with their names as parents other then the ones below at Dereham - Was there a 1st wife also called Elizabeth or was there a mistake in transcribing the records???

Not sure if this is the same family however this Elizabeth do appear to fit in with a burial?
1682: Apr 9 – Baptism at St Giles Church Norwich
Elizabeth Rash daughter of Robert Rash and his wife Elizabeth
Elizabeth died in 1712, she would have been about 30 - she was buried on Oct 22nd at St Nicholas Churchyard

1684: May 20 - Marriage at Norwich
Robert Rash married Elizabeth Kitmer

1685: Apr 7 – Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
John Rash son of Robert Rash and his wife Elizabeth
There is a burial record on Dec 25th 1751 declaring the death of John Rash Snr - Is this this John? - he would have been aged about 66

It seems logical that Robert's first son would be a Robert, maybe they were still living in Norwich and the record is waiting to be transcribed!!!
1686: If this is the case Robert Rash born 1686 would fit in here - No record found - MORE on Robert BELOW

1688: May 15 – Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Thomas Rash son of Robert Rash and his wife Elizabeth - MORE on Thomas BELOW

1690: Jun 15 – Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Richard Rash son of Robert Rash and his wife Elizabeth
Richard died in 1692 and was buried on March 14th (son of Robert and Elizabeth)

No record of Robert's death

There is another?
1766: Nov 21 – Burial at St Nicholas Churchyard East Dereham
Elizabeth Rash (widow)

John was recorded as an Oatmeal Maker in 1703 and at his daughter Mary's wedding to Thomas George, Gent

Date unknown - John Rash married Mary unkown
Robert and Mary had children:

1695: May 4 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
John Rash son of John Rash and his wife Mary
John must have died - no record

1696: May 25 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Frances Rash daughter of John Rash and his wife Mary - no further information

1697: Dec 26 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Jane Rash daughter of John Rash and his wife Mary - no further information

1700: Jul 8 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Thomas Rash son of John Rash and his wife Mary - MORE on Thomas BELOW

1701: Feb 1 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
John Rash son of John Rash and his wife Mary - * John is recorded on documents as John the Younger - More on John BELOW

1703: Oct 18 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
James Rash son of John Rash a Oatmeal Maker and his wife Mary
James died in 1732 (stated as Mr James Rash) he would have been 29 he was buried on Sep 7th

1704 about??? - Do Mary Rash fit in here - She married Thomas George see BELOW

1728/9: Mar 13 - Burial at St Nicholas Churchyard East Dereham
John Rash (stated as Old Mr Rash)

1730: Jul 21 - Burial at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Mary Rash widow - Stated as Mrs Mary Rash

Robert Rash was born about 1686

Dereham was a town of considerable business of worstead weaving. In 1728 this appears to have been Robert's trade but the local industry was heading into declined. By 1752 Robert is recorded as a flour dealer. As his brother Thomas (1688) was a succesful brewer in the town we have to wonder if they worked together of side by side.

1715: Feb 12 – Marriage at Hoe Norfolk
Robert Rash age 28 married Anne Margetson age 28
Anne was baptised on January 22nd 1688/9 at St Stephens Church Norwich daughter of Thomas Margaetson a Merchant and Anne his wife.
Anne had a brother Thomas who was baptised on August 4th 1687 also at St Stephens he died in 1705 age 17 - he has a floor memorial in St Nicholas Church - added to the bottom is a memorial is John Rash (1701), who died a bachelor in 1787 age 85, he was the son of Robert Rash and his wife Mary - What was the connection?
Robert and Anne had children:

1716: SAMUEL RASH - We know Robert Rash and Ann were the parents of Samuel Rash as there is a memorial in St Nicholas Church stating this (below) – however no baptism for him has been found - was he actually born at Hoe?

1718: Oct 21 – Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Anna Penelope Rash daughter of Robert Rash and his wife Ann
Anna, now Penelope Anna died in 1743 age 25, she was buried on December 21st (daughter of Robert and Ann Rash)

	Trancept, floor slab: (partially under Rash`s Chest) To the memory of ANNA PENELOPE daughter of ROBERT and ANNE RASH who departed this life December 17th 1743 aged 25 years also ROBERT their son who died June 18th 1738 in ye 15th year of his age [Penelope Anne in register]

1719: Feb 10 – Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Mary Rash daughter of Robert Rash and his wife Ann
Mary died as an infant in 1720, she was buried on September 12th (daughter of Robert Rash)

1721: Jul 28 – Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Elizabeth Rash daughter of Robert Rash and his wife Ann
Elizabeth died as an infant in 1721 and was buried on October 22nd (child of Robert Rash)

1722: Aug 10 – Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Robert Rash son of Robert Rash and his wife Ann
Robert died age 15 in 1738 and was buried on May 19th (son of Robert Rash)

1724: Apr 6 – Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Margaret Rash daughter of Robert Rash and his wife Ann
Margaret died as an infant in 1724 and was buried on August 11th (daughter of Robert Rash)

1726: May 1 – Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Ruben Rash son of Robert Rash and his wife Ann
Ruben died in 1747 age 21, he was buried on July 12th (son of Robert and Ann Rash)

1732: Sep 8 – Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
John Rash son of Robert Rash and his wife Ann - More on John BELOW

1728: Robert Rash was a Linen Weaver

1728:
Apprentice's name(s)	John Taylor
Apprentice's place	East Dereham
Apprentice's parent's name(s)	William Taylor
Master's name(s)	Robert Rash
Master's occupation	Linen Weaver
Master's place	East Dereham
Indenture Year	1728
Premium	£15. 0s 0d

	S.Nave, wall memorial. In memory of Mr ROBERT RASH of this parish who died April ye 4th 1764 aged 78 years also of ANNE his widow who died 22 August 1766 aged 77 years and likewise of their son SAMUEL RASH Esq who died 1st February 1794 in the 78th year of his age. God be merciful to me a sinner Robert Rash 1686 – 1764 Ann Rash nee Margetson 1689 – 1766 Samuel Rash 1716 - 1794

MORE on Thomasin Gallant nee Waller
Thomasin Waller had married John Gallant a Gent on June 5th 1710 at St Peter and St Paul Church Scarning. It appears they never had children. John died in 1723 and was buried on Aug 5th at St Nicholas Churchyard East Dereham. He was recorded as ‘MR’ John Gallant.
There is an unreadable entry for a baptism on November 30th which from all accounts is Thomasin Waller daughter of Waller - no further infromation - Further baptisms give John Waller Gent and Sarah his wife as parents - John must have died before Sarah as she was buried at St Nicholas on July 1st 1730 a widow.
Thomas and Thomasine had one daughter:

1727: Jan 20 – Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Sarah Rash daughter of (written as MR) Thomas Rash and his wife Thomasin
Sarah died in on June 16th 1742, she would have been about 14 – she was buried on June 18th at St Nicholas Churchyard

	In front of Lady Chapel. Floor slab. Sacred to the memory of SARAH the only child of THOMAS RASH and THOMASINE his wife who departed this life 16th July 1742 in the 14th year of her age ----------------------- Peace to thy gentle shade and endless rest, Be thou with him that made thee ever blest, Be thou from envy and hatred free, And kings may wish to lead a life like thee.

1760: Jul 2 - Burial at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Thomas Rash Snr

St George’s Chapel, wall memorial. In memory of THOMAS RASH of this parish, brewer who acquired an easy fortune with honour and integrity and left behind him the character of an honest man. He died 29th June 1760 in the 73rd year of his age and of THOMASINE his wife daughter of JNO WALLER of ye parish, gent. who died 20th January 1745 in ye 51st year of her age. Also of SARAH their only child who died ye 16th June 1742 Thomasine 1694 - 1745 Thomas 1688 - 1760

THOMAS RASH born about 1700
Maybe son of John Rash and Mary his wife

1700: Jul 8 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Thomas Rash son of John Rash and his wife Mary - MORE on Thomas

In 1740 Thomas was recorded on his daughter Frances baptism as a Captain - no further information.

Thomas Rash married Mary unknown

1728: Sep 13 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Mary Rash daughter of Thomas Rash and Mary his wife
It appears Mary married Robert Brown a bachelor of Watton on July 9th 1754 at St Nicholas Church by licence

1729: Oct 22 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Katherine Rash daughter of Thomas Rash and his wife Mary
It appears Catherine a spinster married by licence Rash Bird a bachelor and Rector of Stanfield on Dec 13th 1758 at St Margaret Church Stanfield, Norfolk. Rash's father also Rash, was a surgeon of East Rudham, (Rash senior died in 1800 aged 101, he outlived his son who died in 1793, and his grandson who died in 1799 aged 35).
1736: April - On Wednesday, the Rev Rash Bird, was instituted to the rectory at Stanfield, Norfolk of the presentation of Sir Henry Le'Strange, Batt.
Catherine and Rash had a son also called Rash Bird, baptised on Nov 25th 1763 at Stanfield.

1731: Apr 2 - Baptisam at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Rebecca Rash daughter of Thomas Rash and Mary his wife
It appears Rebecca married Isaac Mendham of Watton on Sept 16th 1756 - There is a Marriage licence bond in thr Norfolk Records Office - Ref: ANW 24/30/131

1733: Apr 13 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Roda Rash daughter of Thomas Rash and Mary his wife
Roda must have died

1734: Sept 28 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Roda Rash daughter of Thomas Rash and Mary his wife
Roda must have died

1736: Nov 26 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Roda Rash daughter of Thomas Rash and Mary his wife
Roda a spinster married Samuel Cobb a single man on November 21st 1763 at Morton-on-the-Hill Norfolk - by licence
Roda died in 1810 and it appears there is a Will

1738: Mar 9 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Jane Rash daughter of Thomas Rash and Mary his wife
It appears Jane a spinster married William Jackson a bachelor on Mar 23rd 1762 and St Nicholas

1740: Jun 27 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Frances Rash daughter of Thomas Rash Capt and his wife Mary
It appears Frances married William Smith on Aug 30th 1768 at St Andrews Chuch, Great Ryburgh by licence

1741: Jun 30 - Burial at St Nicholas Churchyard East Dereham
Mary Rash wife of Mr Thomas Rash

1759: Jun 4 - Burail at St Nicholas Churcyard East Dereham
Thomas Rash a widower

1701: Feb 1 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
John Rash son of John Rash and his wife Mary

There is nothing found todate to tell us what John's trade was - It could be that he and his brother Thomas (1688) were partners in the Brewry trade.

1777: - An advert appears in the Norfolk Chronicle on June 21st offering his house in Dereham For Sale.- The residence of John Rash Eqs - It consisted of a Hall, two Parlors, a Kitchen, Store-room, Scullery and Pantry, a Cellar and good Vault, five Chambers, and five good Lodging Garrets, with a large compting Room, (separate from the house) Brew-house, Stable sufficient for nine Horses, and other convenient Outhouses, all Brick and Tiled, and in Good Repair, with a Garden and Orchard neatly laid out and planted with best Fruit-trees of all Kinds, and a Shrubbery, with a large Fish-pond well stocked with Fish, containing about one Acre and three Roods, All Freehold, (except the Shrubbery and Parcel of the Garden, Copyhold of East Dereham of the Queen. For further Particulars apply to Mr Donne, and Mr Watts, or to Mr Thomas Smyth, Attorney at Dereham. ----- From all accounts John had done well for himself.

John never married,

In the Charties of the Poor by Zachary Clarke of the Gilberts Relief of the Poor Act of 1782, printed in 1811, there is mention to John Rash - A House and Land, supposed to have ben given by Deed, as it has been conveyed from one Feoffee (a trustee invested with a freehold estate to hold in possession for a purpose, typically a charitable one) to another for a centry back, to pay and discharge the common burdens of the town. Both these estates are vested in John Rash, of East Dereham, the surviving Trustee, and let together for the yearly rent of £10.

1787: John Rash died, bachelor, age 85, he was buried on Jan 20th at St Nicholas Churchyard.
There is a floor-slab memorial that I have not quite figured out yet, as to the relationship (below)
We do know a Anne Margetson married Robert Rash (1686) - was John's mother Mary also a Margetson?

Trancept, floor slab: (partially beneath Rash`s Chest) Here lieth the body of THOMAS the son of THOMAS MARGETSON late of ye city of Norwich Merchant and of ANNE his wife who departed this life ye 12th day of October in the year of our Lord 1705 in ye 18th year of her Age. ----------------- In memory of JOHN RASH died Jan 15th 1787 Aged 85 years John Rash 1701 - 1787 Thomas was baptised on August 4th 1687 at St Stephens Church Norwich, son of Mr Thomas Margetson a Merchant and Anne his wife. Thomas was buried on October 14th 1705 at St Nicholas church he was an apprentice - maybe to the Rash's. His sister Anne Margetson married Robert Rash (1686) in 1715

MARY RASH born unknow
Daughter of John Rash and Mary

No birth record of Mary Rash has been found, however we do know she is the daughter of John and Mary by the Marriage Settlement held at the Norfolk Records Office:- below

Indenture: Settlement on the marriage between Thomas George and Mary Rash. (1) Thomas George of East Dereham, apothecary, son and heir and devisee in fee of Asty George of East Dereham, gent., decd. (2) Mary Rash of East Dereham, spinster, daughter of John Rash the elder of East Dereham, oatmeal maker, and Mary, his wife, both decd.

1733: Feb 5 - Marriage at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Mary Rash (stated as Mrs) married Thomas George - both of Dereham
Thomas George was the Lord of the Manor for East Dereham, the son of Astry George

In the middle of the eighteenth century, 'Mrs' did not describe a married woman: it described a woman who governed subjects (i.e., employees or servants or apprentices) or a woman who was skilled or who taught. It described a social, rather than a marital status – when it wasn't being used metaphorically.

From East Dereham historical records
1703: Asty George, of East Dereham, Gent, was Lord, 1724, Thomas George, of East Dereham, Gent, was Lord, 1764, Asty George, of Norwich, son of Thomas George, Gent, was Lord. The manner was alter sold and conveyed to Jeremaih Ives of Town Close, near the city of Norwich, who is the present Lord.

Mary and Thomas had children

1733: Feb 19 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Asty George son of Mr Thomas George and Mary his wife
Asty moved to Nowich but remained Lord of the Manor of Dereham

1737: Apr 17 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Jane George daughter of Thomas George, Gent and Mary his wife
Jane died in 1838 and was buried on September 11th - daughter of Mr Thomas George

1738: Feb 23 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Ann George daughter of Thomas George and Mary his wife

1740: May 5 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
John George son of Thomas George, Gent and Mary his wife

1744: Nov 16 - Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Mary George daughter of Thomas George and his wife Mary

1749: Jan 29 - Burial at St Nichols Church East Dereham
Thomas George

1767: Jul 14 - Burial at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Mary George widow

Many of the George family have memorial within St Nicholas Church but there is nothing off Mary so we have no idea of her age at death which would have confirm an approximate birth date.

***FURNIVAL'S INN, an extra-parochial place in Holburn district, Middlesex; within the metropolis. Acres, 2. Real property, £5, 233. Pop., 202. Houses, 14. It took its name from its former owners, the family of Furnival; but it is now private property. The location is that of Furnival's Inn, as recorded in our boundary mapping.
Furnivals Inn through time - Furnivals Inn is now part of Camden district. Camden has changed over two centuries.

1741: April 5th - Old Bailey - Court Case - George Lancaster, Theft from a Specified Place. - George Lancaster, of St. Andrew-Holbourn, was indicted, (with Thomas Fernley, not taken) for stealing 16 Thirty-six Shilling Pieces, the Money of Samuel Rash, in his Mansion-house, Feb. 13.
Mr. Rash. On the 22d of February last, the Prisoner confess'd to me, that one Thomas Fernley came up to my Chambers in Furnival's-Inn, and looked into a Closet with Glass Doors, which is in the Dining-Room, and saw a little Chest; that he asked the Prisoner what it was, and he told him my Servant Simon Kidder said there was Money in it; on which Fernley said he would have some of it; the Prisoner then threatned to inform me of it, if he persisted in his Intention. Fernley not regarding that, went up to the Bureau, and whether it was locked or not, I can't say, but he took out of it 2 Keys, with which he endeavoured to open the Glass Doors, but could not. Upon that he pulled out of his Pocket a Piece of Wire, and the Prisoner again said he would tell me of it, and accordingly went half down the Stain, pretending to come to me, hoping by that Mean to frighten Feruley and make him desist from his Design. When the Prisoner came up again he found the Glass Doors open, and saw Feruley take out of his Pocket a Nail with a wooden Handle with which he endeavoured to open the Chest, but could not; and at last looking about he found the Key of the Chest in a China Bason, but having bent the Pipe of the Lock he could not get the Key in 'till he had straiten'd it. He then opened the Chest, and the Prisoner again ran down Stairs, threatning to inform me, but returned, and then saw that Feruley had taken out of the Chest a Canvass-bag, and was telling the Money over on a green Table. The Prisoner desired him to desist, but he would not, and desired the Prisoner to partake of the Money, and threatned him hard on his Refusal. At last through many Persuasions he was prevailed upon to take 7 or 8 Thirty-six Shilling Pieces, one 6s. and 9d. and a 13s. and 6d. The Prisoner then desired to put the Money into the Bag again, fearing he should be discovered by a Medal which he had taken as Part of his Share, and therefore designed to put it into the Bag again, but instead of that, in his Hurry he put in a Brass Porte-Bells Pocket-piece . A few Minutes after this, perceiving his Mistake, he took out the Pocket-piece, and put the Medal into the Bag. The Prisoner likewise confessed, that this Money was to be lodged with one James Freeman, in whose Hands I found 2 Hangers, 3 Thirty-six Shilling Pieces, and a Guinea, which was all that remained unspent.
Q. Was the Prisoner Servant to you?
Mr. Rash. I employed him as a Hackney-writer, and during the Time he was in my Service, he behaved very well.
John Child. Mr. Rash informing me that he had been robbed, I made an Enquiry, and found that the Prisoner and another had been very lavish in spending their Money at Furnival's-Inn-Cellar, and this giving us sufficient Reason to suspect him, he was apprehended, and I heard him make this Confession of which Mr. Rash has given an Account.
James Freeman. Some Time in last February, the Prisoner and Fernley left about 20 - 1 in my Hands, with some of this Money they bought each of them Watches and Hangers, and used to leave them with me every Night, and fetch them again in the Morning. I have here 3 Thirty-six Shilling Pieces and a Guinea which they left with me, but the last Time they were together, the Prisoner laid down his Watch on the Table, and Fernley took it up and went off with it.
DEFENCE. Mary Sharew . I have known the Prisoner a long Time, and always took him to be an honest Lad.
Richard Clark . The Prisoner is now about 14 Years of Age, and I have known him ever since he was born. I never heard that he wronged any Body, nor ever saw him fuddled or concerned in Liquor in my Life.
Jacob Harbin. I have known him 8 Years. As to his Character, I always heard that he was a sober Lad both to himself and his Parents. His Father was as honest a Man, and his Mother as ever was born.
Thomas Peele. I have known him above a Year, and never heard no Ill of him in my Life.
John Mayes. I have known him about three Months. I was Fellow-Clerk with him, and he behaved himself exceeding well as far as I know. ACQUITTED.

(Age 28)
1744: Jun 24 - Westminster Grosvenor Chapel Mayfair
Samuel Rash of Furnivals Inn married Dorothy Fuller of Peterborough
Things did not work out for Samuel and he divorced Dorothy in 1748 (below)

More on the case:
1748: Jul 11 - Rash, Leave for a Divorce Bill.
Upon reading the Petition of Samuel Rash Gentleman, praying Leave to bring in a Bill, to dissolve his Marriage with Dorothy Fuller his now Wife, she having lived a disorderly and dissolute Life with James Mingay Surgeon. It is Ordered, That Leave be given to bring in a Bill, as desired. Bill presented, and read.
Accordingly the Lord Bathurst presented to the House a Bill, intituled, "An Act to dissolve the Marriage of Samuel Rash Gentleman with Dorothy Fuller his now Wife, and to enable him to marry again, and for other Purposes therein mentioned"
And the same was read the First Time.
Ordered, That the said Bill be read a Second Time To-morrow Fortnight, and that Notice thereof be affixed on the Doors of this House, and the Lords to be summoned, and that the said Samuel Rash may be heard, by his Counsel, at the said Second Reading, to make out the Truth of the Allegations of the Bill, and that the said Dorothy Fuller may have a Copy of the said Bill, and Notice be given her of the said Second Reading, and that she be at Liberty to be heard, by her Counsel, what she may have to offer against the said Bill, at that Time - Details can be found HERE.

After the divorce was finalised Dorothy did in fact go on to marry James Mingay a widower and surgeon of Thetford on April 15th 1759 at Kennighall Norfolk. Dorothy died in 1783, she was buried on May 31st at St Mary's churchyard Thetford
They went on to have children, the most prominent was James *(mentioned below) but life was not always sweet for them. In 1785 their second daughter Elizabeth was found drowned in Mr Gill's mill-pool. She had been very low spirited for a considerable time.
James Mingay, who has also been mayor of the borough died in 1801 age 83, he was buried at Thetford’s St Mary the Less church in 1801, he was the first to be interred in the family crypt. Over the years, the surgeon was joined by seven more of his family - laid to peaceful rest for evermore - That is until 2013.

The historic Grade II listed church had been sealed and derelict since 2004, but intruders broke into the building, and smashed their way into the vault. Once inside, they prised open Mr Mingay’s coffin taking a prominent item - his skull. According to police, the thieves were then seen throwing the skull around, and even playing football with it. It was later found by a member of the public dumped on the picturesque Spring Walk and handed into police. On September 18th 2015, Rev Tony Heywood, from the Thetford Team Ministry, read prayers as the skull was finally replaced. A lead plaque to mark the grave was also returned.

Courtesy of Eastern Daily Press

*Dorothy and James had a son (also named James Mingay) born in 1852 who became quite a prominent figure, becoming a King’s bench barrister, obtaining fees of 5,000 guineas in his best year. He was considered second only to Thomas Erskine, with whom he often did professional battle, and was renowned for his charity and energy, and his ‘coarse humour’ in court.1 In 1806 he retired from the bar and attempted to get into Parliament - more can be read HERE.

Back to Samuel:
1749: Samuel Rash takes on an apprentice - Who is John? - it could be his brother, and the position did not suit for he later went on to be a priest.  

1753: Nov 9 – Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Elizabeth Rash daughter of Samuel Rash and his wife Elizabeth
There is a record of an Elizabeth Rash (spinster) who was buried on April 27th 1784 - Do this fit here? - she would have been about 31 years.

1760: Jan 8 - Baptism at St nicholas Church East Dereham
Sarah Penelope Rash daughter of Samuel Rash and Elixabeth his wife - Spelt a Ras
In a news paper cutting dated May 24th 1785 it states this is Samuel’s daughter !!!
1785: May 10 – Marriage at St Nicholas Church East Dereham – Entry 120
Sarah Penelope Rash spinster married George Payley a bachelor
The service was proformed by Thomas Shelford (Sarah's uncle) rector of North Tuddenham, Norfolk
Witness: E Shelford (Elizabeth wife to Thomas) - C E Bagge (Charles Elsden Bagge surgeon to Dereham) and Charlotte Rash (sister)
Notes: Marriage by License, George and Sarah signed their name.
George Paley was the Viocat of the Union of Clonfert, County of Galway, in the kingdom of Ireland. Paley, third son of George Paley of Langcliffe. He died in 1794

1766: Sep 17 – Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Charlotte Rash born September 9th 1766 daughter of Samuel Rash and his wife Elizabeth
Charlotte married Porter Bringloe in Feb 7th 1797 at Hingham.
Porter was baptised in July 4th 1752 at Hingham, Norfolk son of Mr Capel Bringloe - In 1770 he was appenticed to James Tuson a Surgeon of Boxford Suffolk. There are 2 other apprenticeships on record of a Porter Bringloe which throws up question but as there is only one Porter Bingloe I have left them in - 1777 to Like Bull, a tailor of Marylebone London, then in 1880 to Edward Roach, a tailor of Norwich
Porter died in 1820 age 67 at Hingham

Notes: Hingham Church - Chancel - black floor slab:
In memory of PORTER BRINGLOE, 40 years surgeon in this parish who departed this life May 31st 1820 aged 67 years - Also of CAPEL his son who departed this life April 1st 1821 aged 21 years

Charlotte age 76 died in 1843 at Bassingbourn Cambridgeshire

Monumental Inscriptions The Parish Church of St Peter and St Paul Bassingbourn, Cambridgeshire:- Sacred to the Memory of Charlotte widow od Poert Bringloe of Norfolk and youngest daughter of Samuel Rash Esq of East Dereham in the same County - She departed this life January 13th, 1843 aged 76.

S Nave, wall memorial – St Nicholas Church East Dereham In loving memory of ELIZABETH the beloved wife of Mr SAMUEL RASH of this parish who died the 19th September 1768 aged 40 years. her life (even from the youth upwards) was almost one continued scene of pain, and bodily infirmities; which she sustained with a degree of patience and resignation, and with a cheerfulness, rarely to be seen in a person so much afflicted. Let us therefore hope, that through the merits of our blessed Saviour, her sufferings in this life are amply rewarded in that which is to come. Amen Elizabeth Rash nee Shelford 1728 - 1768

1786: January 1st Samuel's Rash's Chest - In the church stands a very curious old chest of oak, richly carved with figures of saints &c. In the front of the chest, under the lock, is represented the wise men of the east bringing their gifts at the birth of our Savour; and the lock is a curious piece of workmanship, the haspe representing the entrance to a Gothic structure, while on the lappet of the key hole is a figure of a monk issuing from its porch. The following inscription shows it to have been a gift of Samuel Rash, Esq, who lies buried near the porch at the east end of the church. Is is on a small brass plate, with the arms of the donor engraved on the top under which - "As a token of his respect towards his native place, Samuel Rash, esq, on the 1st day of January 1786 presented to the church of East Dereham, this chest, for the purpose of keeping together and preserving the deeds, records and other writings belonging to this parish."
Tradition says this curious chest and lock is up to 400 years old; was taken from the ruins of Buckenham Castle, and many years since the property of the noble family of the Howard's, dukes of Norfolk, and supposed to be used by them for for depositing their money and other valuables

Height, 3 ft. 9 in.; length, 6 ft.; width, 2 ft. 6 in. Courtesy of chestofbooks.com where there is a full discription

All that remains of the first Norman castle, Old Buckenham Castle, are the remains of the earthworks and some traces of a stone curtain wall. In 1145 a new castle was built two miles to the south east at New Buckenham. The foundations of the circular stone shell keep, 60 foot in diameter, the moat and the earth ramparts are all that is left after the demolition in 1649 ordered by Parliament after the Civil War.

1794: Feb 5 - Burial at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Samuel Rash age 77 - died at Shipdham

	S.Nave, wall memorial. In memory of Mr ROBERT RASH of this parish who died April ye 4th 1764 aged 78 years also of ANNE his widow who died 22 August 1766 aged 77 years and likewise of their son SAMUEL RASH Esq who died 1st February 1794 in the 78th year of his age. God be merciful to me a sinner Robert Rash 1686 – 1764 Ann Rash nee Margetson 1689 – 1766 Samuel Rash 1716 - 1794

1794: On April 5th of that year his Samuel's house and properties we advertised for sale. The advert in the Norfolk Chronicle reads, "A Complete Dwelling-House in East Dereham, late the residence of Samuel Rash Esq, deceased, and called the Cottage, with every convenience necessary for a Gentleman with a small family, situated next to a pleasant green, about a quarter of a mile from the body of the town, a good garden and orchards, well planted with fruit trees and bushes; about one acre of land on the north side of the cottage is planted with shrubs &c with a large fish-pond by the side thereof, together with three enclosures with exceeding fine and rich land adjoining, in the whole 8A. 1R. 34P including shrubbery &c. - Possession may be held immediately, or at any time this side of Michaelmass next.

Also a new built Messuage or Garden-House, near the body of the town, with 3A, 1R, 1P, 15P. of very fine land, some years ago converted to a garden, wherein are now growing 700 and upwards of the best fruit trees, with fruit bushes, &c, &c, in abundance, and in the most flourishing condition.

Also another Garden-House, called White-Hall, with 2A, 1R, 29P, of rich garden ground, with the best kind of fruit trees and bushes thereon, and now in a fine bearing condition - Also a small Dwelling-House, with a Barn, and 18A, 1R, of good land in Scarning - Enquire, Mr Richard Goddard or Mr John Crisp of East Dereham."
It would be so nice to know where these properties were.

1794: Gentleman's Magazine - Obituary of Considerable Persons - In his 78th year, after having served his country as a useful and vigilant magistrate, Samuel Rash Esq of East Dereham, Norfolk.

1732: Sep 8 – Baptism at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
John Rash son of Robert Rash and his wife Ann

1749: Did John try his hand at law and the position did not suit for later we find become a priest.  

1751/2: Mar 10 - Biolgraphhical History of Conville and Caius College.
John son of Robert Rash, flour dealer, of East Dereham. Born there. Schools, Scarning, five years, under Mr Brett; and Norwich a year and half, under Mr Welton. Age 18. Admitted pensioner. BA 1756, Scholar, Mich 1752 to Mich 1759. Ordained deacon Norwich Feb 19th 1758; as curate of Stanfield: priest (do), August 14th 1783. Probably incumbant of Sprowston July - September 1787.

1773: John at the age of about 41 married Martha Marsh (daughter of Charles Marsh) on March 22nd 1773 at Tombland Norwich
Marth was baptised on October 28th 1741 at St George Church, Tombland, Norwich, daughter of Charles Marsh and Elizabeth Fermanteel his wife.
She was also baptised at the Octagon Unitarian Chapel, Norwich on November 30th 1741 - Charles March is discribed as a Worstead Weaver
It is not clear if they had children

The Revd John Rash died some time before or just in to 1788 - no record found - THERE IS A WILL on Ancestry which could hold the answer

1788: Feb 16 - Norfolk Chronicle - Catton near Norwich - To be Let - And entered upon immediately or Lady-day next - A Present Dwelling House, with convenient Offices, Gardens, Orchard, Barn and Stable, late in the Occupation of the Rev John Rash. - For further Particulars enquire of Mt John Snelgrove, or Mr Gardiner Harwood, Attorney of Law, Norwich - It is possible that Four Acres of Land, opposite the House, which the late Mr Rash, hired, may be had with the premises.

1788: Aug 20 - Bury and Norfolk Post - To be Sold at Catton near Norwich - A Covenant sashed Dwelling House, pleasantly situated, with offices, and garden contiguous, and barn and stable at a small distance, lat in the occupation of the Rev John Rash, clerk deceased. Also Four Tenements near the said house. The whole of the buildings brick and tile, in good repair, and moderately assessed to the land-tax. For further particulars enquire of Samuel Rash Esq, at East Dereham in Norfolk, or of Mr Gardiner Harwood, attorney-at-law, in Norwich.

1815: Marth died age 74 on Saturday September 9th 1815, she was buried at the parish church at Catton, Norwich on September 18th.

There is a marriage where the Will Rash mentioned cannot be accounted for, unless he was in the milatary. Was he related?

1731: Nov 18 - Marriage at St Nicholas Church East Dereham
Will Rash married Mrs Elizabeth Gogney of East Dereham
William died in 1760 and was burried on Sep 12th

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