John McDonald was a Marine Private on the Resolution on Cook's Third Voyage. Nothing is known of his life before this voyage. The will was made shortly after the return to London and so nothing is known about the last six years of his life. Interestingly his lawyer is the sole beneficiary of the will with no mention of family. He was punished twice on the voyage, once for neglect of duty, the other for insolence.

The will of JOHN McDONALD proved on 26 June 1786 (11/1143).

In the Name of God Amen, I John McDonald, late belonging to his Majesty's Ship Resolution, being of sound and disposing Mind and Memory, do hereby make this my last Will and Testament.

First, and Principally I Commend my Soul into the Hands of Almighty God, hoping for remission of all my Sins through the Merits of Jesus Christ my blessed Saviour and Redeemer, and my Body to the Earth or Sea as it shall please God. And as and for such Worldly Estate and Effects which I shall be possessed of or intitled unto at the time of my decease, I give and bequeath the same as followeth, that is to say -

I give and bequeath the same unto my Trusty Friend Peter McMullen, Attorney at Law, all such Wages, Sum and Sums of Money as now is, or hereafter shall be due to me for my Service or otherwise on Board the said Ship or any other Ship or Vessel.

And I do hereby nominate, constitute and appoint the said Peter McMullen his (sic) Executor of this my last Will and Testament. And I do give and bequeath unto my said Executor all the rest and residue of my Estate whatsoever, both real and personal, hereby revoking and making void all other and former Wills by me heretofore made, and I do declare this to be my last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and Seal this Tenth day of November in the Year of our Lord One thousand seven hundred and eighty and in the twenty first Year of the Reign of our Sovereign Lord George the third by the Grace of God of Great Britain, France and Ireland King Defender of the Faith &c John McDonald.

Signed, Sealed, Published and declared by the said John McDonald as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our Names as Witnesses in presence of the said Testator Patt. Whealon, James Harding, William Farren.

This Will was proved at London the twenty sixth Day of June in the Year of our Lord One thousand seven hundred and eighty six before the Worshipful George Harris, Doctor of Laws, Surrogate of the Right Worshipful Peter Calvert, Doctor of Laws , Master Keeper or Commissary of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury lawfully constituted by the Oath of Peter McMullen the Sole Executor named in the said Will, to whom Administration was granted of all and Singular the Goods, Chattels and Credits of the deceased having been first Sworn duly to Administer.

Alexander McIntosh was born in Perth, Scotland in 1746. He sailed on the Resolution on the Third Voyage as carpenter's mate. McIntosh died in Petropavlosk in Kamchatka on 16 May 1779.

The will of ALEXANDER McINTOSH proved on 12 October 1780 (11/1070).

In the Name of God Amen, I Alexr. Macintosh, Mariner on board his Majesty's Ship Resolution now lying at Deptford in the County of Kent, being of sound and disposing Mind and Memory, do hereby make this my last Will and Testament.

First, and Principally I commend my Soul into the hands of Almighty God hoping for remission of all my Sins through the Merits of Jesus Christ my blessed Saviour and Redeemer, and my Body to the Earth or Sea as it shall please God,

And as for such worldly Estate and Effects which I shall be possessed of or intitled unto at the time of my decease, I give and bequeath the same as followeth, that is to say unto my beloved Friend Duncan McAlpin at Deptford in the County of Kent, Cooper (?) all Estate, Real and personal and every thing I may die possessed of or any ways intitled to by Reversion or otherwise.

And I do hereby nominate, constitute and appoint my Friend Duncan McAlpin aforesaid Executors of this my last Will and Testament. And I do give and bequeath unto my said Executors all the Rest and Residue of my Estate whatsoever both Real and Personal, hereby revoking and making void all other and former Wills by me heretofore made and do declare this to be my last Will and Testament.

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this sixth day of May and in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy six, and in the seventeenth year of the Reign of our Sovereign Lord George the third by the grace of God of Great Britain, France and Ireland, King defender of the Faith. Alexander McIntosh.

Signed, Sealed, published and declared by the said Testator as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our Names as Witnesses in the presence of the said Testator. Andrew Murhead, Joseph Phillips.

This Will was proved at London the twelfth day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty, before the Worshipful Andrew Coltee Ducarel, Doctor of Laws, Surrogate of the Right Worshipful Peter Calvert Doctor of Laws Master Keeper or Commissary of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury lawfully constituted by the Oath of Duncan McAlpin, the sole Executor named in the said Will to whom Administration of all and singular the Goods, Chattels and Credits of the deceased was granted he having been first sworn duly to Administer.

The will of ROBERT MACKIE proved on 08 May 1789 (11/1080).

In the name of God amen, I Robert Mackie of Carron in Scotland, Lieutenant in His Majesty's Navy, being of sound and disposing mind and memory do hereby make this my last will and testament.

First and principally I recommend my soul into the hands of Almighty God hoping for remission of all my sins through the merits of Jesus Christ, my blessed saviour and redeemer, and my body to the earth or sea as it shall please God

And as for such worldly estate and effects which I shall be possessed of or entitled unto at the time of my decease, I give and bequeath the same as followeth:

Unto my brother Andrew Mackie of Carron aforesaid and a Master in His Majesty's Navy, all my estate and effects whereof I shall die possessed of or entitled unto, to hold the same unto my said brother, Andrew Mackie, his heirs, executors, administrators and assigns for ever

And in the case of my said brother's decease then I give and bequeath the same and every part thereof to be equally divided as follows:

Three fourth parts thereof between my uncles, John Duncanson and Alexander Mackie, and my aunt, Margaret Mackie, share and share alike and the other fourth part to be equally divided between my half kinsmen, John Kier, Frances Kier and Margaret Kier, share alike.

And I do hereby nominate, constitute and appoint the said Andrew Mackie executor of this my last will and testament and I do give and bequeath unto my said executor all the rest and resdue of my estate whatsoever, both real and personal, hereby revoking and making void all other and former wills by me heretofore made and do declare this to be my last will and testament.

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this tenth day of May, year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty three and in the twenty third year of the reign of our sovereign Lord, George the Third, by the grace of God, of Great Britain, France and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith. Robert Mackie. SS. Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Robert Mackie as and for his last will and testament in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses in the presence of the said testator. Geo. Mitchell. Jno. Batt.

This will was proved at London the eighth day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty nine, before the Worshipful George Jarvis, Doctor of Laws, Surrogate of the Right Worshipful Sir William Wynne Knight, Doctor of Laws, Master Keeper or Commissary of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury, lawfully constituted by the oath of Andrew Mackie, the brother of the deceased and sole executor named in the said will to whom admon was granted of all and singular the goods, chattels and credits of the said deceased, having been first sworn duly to administer.

The will of ISAAC GEORGE MANLEY proved on 01 December 1837 (11/1886).

This is the last Will and Testament of me Isaac George Manley, Esquire, Admiral of the White, made in manner following, that is to say,

I give unto my Wife, Frances Manley, the use and enjoyment during her life of all my Household Goods and Furniture, Linen, China, Carriages and Horses, and all my live and dead stock, utensils and Implements of Husbandry and other Effects in and about my House at Braziers at the time of my decease, except such part thereof as are of a perishable nature which I give to her absolutely, also the use & enjoyment during her life of all my Ready money and monies at my Bankers in London and Reading, and the use and enjoyment during her life of all my Gold and Silver Plate,

and from and after her decease I give the same and every part thereof (except the Plate) unto my Daughter Anne Jane Pole Salwey(?) absolutely, I also give to my said Daughter after the death of her Mother the sum of two thousand two hundred and thirty four pounds standing in our joint names in the three per Cent Consols.. And I give to my said Daughter the Watch usually worn by me with the miniature picture of myself and such of my books of which her Mother has Duplicates, the remainder of my Books I give to my Son John Shawe Manley, and I also give to my said Daughter the Debenture of the United Service Club House and any half pay that may be due to me at the time of my decease.

All my Gold and Silver Plate after the death of my said Wife, I give equally between my said Son and Daughter.

I give to my Brother Robert Kendrick Manley the sum of one hundred pounds.

I give one annuity or clear yearly sum of sixty pounds to Elizabeth Lewis during her life, to Richard Carpenter one annuity or clear yearly sum of forty pounds during his life, to Richard Benwell one annuity of clear yearly sum of twenty five pounds during his life and to William Goodchild one annuity or clear yearly sum of twenty five pounds during his life, the said several annuities to commence and be payable at the death of my said Wife, and I give to all the other Servants who may be living with me at the time of my death a years wages and decent mourning.

I give and devise my Warehouse and Cellars situate in Coopers Row, Crutched Friars in the City of London with the Appurtenances, unto my said Brother Robert Kendrick Manley and his Assigns for and during the term of his natural life, and from and after his decease I give and devise the same unto my said Daughter Anne Frances Pole Salwey and her Assigns for and during the term of her natural life, and from and after her decease I give and devise the same unto and to the use of my said Son John Shawe Manley his heirs and assigns for ever.

And I do give and devise and bequeath all the Rest Residue and Remainder of my Real and Personal Estate whatsoever and wheresoever unto my said Son, John Shawe Manley his Heirs, Executors, Administrators and Assigns, subject to the payment of my debts.

And I appoint my said Wife and Son Executors of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made.

In Witness whereof I have hereunto sat my hand and seal this twenty ninth day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty six - Isaac George Manley.

Signed, Sealed, Published and Declared by the said Isaac George Manley the Testator in the presence of us who at his request in his presence and in the presence of each other have subscribed our names as Witnesses hereto
J J Blandy Attorney Reading   Geo. Morton   Sam. Hill Kimber   Clerks to Mr Blandy.

As Mrs Manley died July 29 1837, I bequeath all the money found in the house at Braziers and at the Bank of Messrs Bainbridges and Newton, 12 St. Pauls Churchyard, London, and in the Bank of Messrs Stephens & Co. Reading, Bankers, and the Bank at Lichfield of Messrs Palmer & Green, equally between my Son & Daughter after debts are paid, Braziers July 31 1837.  Isaac Geo. Manley.

Appeared Personally John Jackson Blandy of Reading in the County of Berks. Gentleman, and Samuel Hill Kimber of the same place Gentleman, and made oath that they knew and were well acquainted with Isaac George Manley Esquire, formerly Admiral of the White, but late Admiral of the Red, late of Braziers in the Parish of Checkendon in the County of Oxford, deceased, for several years before and to the time of his death, and also with the manner and character of handwriting and subscription, having often seen him write, and write and subscribe his name, and having now carefully viewed and inspected the writing hereunto annexed upon the last Will and Testament of the said deceased, beginning thus "As Mrs Manley died July 29 1837, I bequeath all the money found in the house at Braziers" and ending thus "equally between my Son & Daughter after debts are paid, Braziers July 31 1837" and thus subscribed "Isaac George Manley" they the deponent further say that they verily and in their consciences believe the whole series and contents of the said writing and the subscription to the same as before mentioned, to be the proper handwriting of the said deceased   J.J. Blandy   Saml. Hill Kimber.

On the 26th day of October 1837, the said John Jackson Blandy and Samuel Hill Kimber were duly Sworn to the truth hereof Before me Wm. Crabtree Rector of Checkendon, Oxon.

Proved at London with a Codicil 1st November 1837 before the Judge by the Oath of John Shawe Manley, Esquire, the Son the surviving Executor to whom Admon. was granted having been first Sworn by Commission duly to Administer.

The will of JOHN MARA (MARRA) (proved 17 March 1783 11/1101).

In the Name of God Amen - I John Marra, Mariner, belonging to his Majesty's Ship Centaur, the Right Honorable Lord Charles Fitz-Gerald Commander, being in bodily health and of sound and disposing Mind and Memory, and considering the perils and dangers of the Seas and other uncertainties of this Transitory Life (do for avoiding controversies after my decease) make, publish and declare this my last Will and Testament in manner following, (that is to say), First I recommend my Soul to god that gave it and my body I commit to the Earth or Sea as it shall please God to order,

And as for and concerning all my Worldly Estate, I give, bequeath and dispose thereof as followeth (that is to say) all and singular such Salary, Wages, Ticketts, Bounty Money, Prize Money, Short Allowance Money, Smart Money, Pensions and all other Sum and Sums of Money, Lands, Tenements, Goods, Chattels and Estate whatsoever as shall be any ways due, owing or belonging unto me at the time of my decease, I do give, devise and bequeath the same unto my beloved Brother William Marra, Farmer in the County of Tipperary, Ireland.

And I do hereby nominate and appoint the said Wm. Marra sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former and other Wills, Testaments and Deeds of Gifts by me at any time heretofore made. And I do ordain and ratify these presents to stand and be for and as my only last Will and Testament. In Witness to this my said Will I have set my hand and Seal the twelfth day of June in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty one, and in the twenty second year of the Reign of his Majesty King George the third over Great Britain etc….
John Mara

Signed, sealed, published and declared in the presence of us (in the West Indies where no stampt paper was to be had) N.H.Eastwood   Jere. Ismay

This Will was proved at London the seventeenth day of March in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty three before the Right Worshipful Peter Calvert, Doctor of Laws, Master Keeper or Commissary of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury lawfully constituted by the oath of William Mara the Brother of the deceased and sole Executor named in the said Will, to whom Administration was granted of all and singular the Goods, Chattels and Credits of the said deceased, he having been first sworn by Commission duly to Administer.

The will of JOHN HENRY MARTIN (proved 11 October 1823 11/1676).

This is the last Will and Testament of me John Henry Martin of the town of Narberth in the County of Pembroke, Esquire.

I give and bequeath unto my oldest Son Henry Owen Martin, One Moiety half part or share of all my Plate, and lastly I give and bequeath all my ready Money, Securities for Money, Goods, Chattels and Personal Estate of every nature and description whatsoever (except one moiety or half part of my Plate) unto my dear Wife, Margaret Martin, her Executors, Administrators and Assigns for ever. Subject to the payment of my Just Debts, funeral expences and the expence of proving this my Will.

And I do appoint my said Wife, Margaret Martin sole Executrix and residuary legatee of this my Will. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and Seal this Second day of May in the year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred and twenty three. J. H. Martin.

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Testator John Henry Martin as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who at his request, in his presence and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses hereto:   Geo Phillipps, Att. Narborth   Tho. Rics his Clerk.

Proved at London 11th October 1823 before the Judge by the Oath of Margaret Martin, Widow, the Relict and sole Executrix to whom Administration was granted being first sworn by Commission duly to Administer.

Bowles Mitchell was born in 1752 in Deptford. He sailed on the Resolution as a midshipman on the Third Voyage. During the voyage he kept a log and drew some charts and coastal views. Mitchell became a lieutenant in 1777 and was listed as a superannated commander in 1810. He died in Ramsgate, Kent in 1824 aged 71.

The will of BOWLES MITCHELL (proved 10 February 1824 (11/1681)).

This is the Last Will and Testament of me Bowles Mitchell Esqre., now residing in Nelson's Crescent in Ramsgate in the Isle of Thanet in the County of Kent.

First, I give and bequeath unto my Nephew James Mitchell one hundred pounds Sterling.

Also I give and bequeath to William Minshull with whom I now reside and to Ann his Wife thirty pounds Sterling a piece.

And as to all other, my money, Securities, Chattels, Effects and Personal Estate whatsoever and wheresoever, subject to the payment of my just Debts, funeral and Testamentory charges, I give and bequeath the same and every part thereof unto and equally amongst my Nieces
 

- Mary Wife of Agnes (?) Parry,
 

- Susanna Wife of Isaac Parry,
 

- Susanna Wife of Charles Holford and Mary Mitchell and
 

- Elizabeth Catherine Wife of my Nephew John Wilson Davis and
 

- Charlotte Davis Daughter of the said John Wilson Davis,

in five equal shares to and for their own several use and benefit.

And I nominate and appoint the said John Wilson Davis and James Mitchell Executors of this my last Will and Testament, and hereby revoking all former Wills by me made I declare this only to be my last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof I the said Bowles Mitchell the Testator have to this my last Will and Testament set my hand and seal the fourth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty two. Bowles Mitchell.

Signed, Sealed, Published and Declared by the said Bowles Mitchell the Testator as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us George Snowden, Edwd. Daniel, Ramsgate.

Proved at London 10th February 1824 before the Worshipful John Danberry Dr. of Laws and Surrogate by the Oaths of John Wilson Davis and James Mitchell the Nephews Executors to whom admon. was granted being first Sworn duly to administer.

Robert Molineux (Molyneux) was Master on the Endeavour. He kept a Journal and Log through the voyage until his death in Table Bay off Robben Island on April 1771, as the Endeavour left Cap Town. He was born in Hale, near Liverpool, in 1746 and had sailed with Wallis on the Dolphin to Tahiti in 1767. He was probably unmarried as only his sister, Ellen, is mentioned in his will.

The will of ROBERT MOLINEUX (proved on 7 July 1771 (11/969)).

In the name of God Amen, I Robert Molineux Master of His Majesty's Ship the Endeavour, Capt. James Cooke, being of a Sound and Disposing Mind, Memory and understanding, God be praised, Do by Divine Permission make, publish and Declare these presents to be and contain my last Will and Testament in manner following,

First I commend my Soul to God who gave it hoping in and through the alone merits and Intercession of my blessed Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ to obtain pardon and remission of all my Sins and to Inherit Eternal life and my body I commit to the Earth or Sea as it shall please God to order and touching the Disposal of all such Temporal Estate as I shall be possessed of Interested in or Intitled unto at the time of my Decease I do hereby Order, Give, Devise and bequeath the same as followeth, that is to say

First I do hereby name, make Order Constitute and appoint my friends Thomas Frons of Woolwich in the County of Kent Shipwright, and Edward Clement Carpenter of his Majesty's Ship the Newark now in Ordinary at Chatham to be Joint Executors of this my last Will, and I do hereby Order, Direct and Appoint that all my Just Debts and funeral Expenses shall by my said Executors or either of them be first fully paid and satisfied, And then all the rest, residue and remainder of my Goods, Chattels, Credits, ready Money, Wages, Prize Money, Short allowance money, Wearing Apparel, Wares, Merchandizes and all other of my Estate whatsoever both Real and Personal, I do hereby Give, Devise and bequeath the same unto my Sister Ellen Molineux of Liverpool in Lancashire, maiden, To hold the same and every part and parcel thereof unto my said Sister Ellen Molineux her Executors, Admors. And Assigns forever, And I do hereby revoke Disannul and make void all other Wills, Testaments and Deeds of Gift by me at any time herebefore made, Published or declared.

In witness whereof I the said Robert Molineux have to this my last Will and Testament set my hand and Seal the Eighteenth Day of July in the Year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred and Sixty Eight. Robert Molineux.

Signed, Sealed, Published and Declared by the said Robert Molineux the Testator as and for his only last Will and Testament in the presence of John Scarlett, Robt. Campbell in the folly near Rotherhithe.

This Will was proved at London before the Worshipful Thomas Bewer Doctor of Laws, Surrogate of the Right Worshipful George Lay also Doctor of Laws, Master Keeper or Commissary of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury lawfully constituted on the Seventh Day of July in the year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred and Seventy one by the Oaths of Thomas Frons and Edward Clement the Executors named in the said Will to whom Administration was Granted of all and Singular the Goods, Chattels and Credits of the Deceased they having been first sworn Duly to Administer.

Commentary by Cliff Thornton on Molineux's will

1. Molineux had served under Wallis as Master's Mate and returned to the UK in May 1768 from his circumnavigation in Dolphin. A month later on 17 June, after a period of leave (?) Molineux was appointed as Master of Endeavour. He made out his will a month later on 18 July 1768, just before the ship left Deptford and sailed down the River Thames to continue its preparations at Gallions Reach.
   
2. Research has failed to reveal Molineux's connections with his two Executors, apart from the obvious fact that they all had strong Naval connections. Reference to Edward Clement of HMS Newark "now in Ordinary" indicates that his ship had been taken out of service and was in the dockland reserve at Chatham.
   
3. No trace has been found of the two witnesses to Molineux's Will. Unusually the document contains reference to a location where it appears that the Will was signed and witnessed "in the folly near Rotherhithe." Rotherhithe had had a close relationship with the sea for centuries. Throughout history it was a favourite home for many seafarers, and had a fine tradition of shipbuilding. By the early 19th century the location had passed its peak and was showing all the signs of urban decay, as described in 1838 by Charles Dickens in Oliver Twist:
   "In such a neighbourhood, beyond Dockhead in the Borough of Southwark, stands Jacob's Island, surrounded by a muddy ditch, six or eight feet deep and fifteen or twenty wide when the tide is in, once called Mill Pond, but known in the days of this story as Folly Ditch. It is a creek or inlet from the Thames, In Jacob's Island, the warehouses are roofless and empty; the walls are crumbling down; the windows are windows no more; the doors are falling into the streets; the chimneys are blackened, but they yield no smoke. Thirty or forty years ago, before losses and chancery suits came upon it, it was a thriving place."
   
4. This Will is unusually detailed in listing the potential of the Testator's personal estate. The inclusion of "prize money" "wares" and "merchandizes" probably reflects Molineux's aspirations for the voyage that he was to embark upon. His post as Master may have enabled him to bring back some personal goods for subsequent sale.
   
5. Sister Ellen of Liverpool is the only family member referred to in the Will. Can we conclude from this that Robert, like many other crew members, was not married?
   

John Mollonex sailed aboard the Adventure as Sergeant of Marines. He is not mentioned in the Ship's logs or journals.

The will of JOHN MOLLONEX (proved on 28 January 1779 (11/1049)).

In the name of God Amen, I John Mollonex, Serjeant in the fourth Company of Marines belonging to his Majesty's Sloop of War the Adventure, being of sound and disposing Mind and Memory, do hereby make this my last Will and Testament -

First and principally I commend my Soul into the hands of Almighty God hoping for Remission of all my Sins through the Merits of Jesus Christ my blessed Saviour and Redeemer, and my body to the Earth or Sea as it shall please God -

And as for such worldly Estate and Effects which I shall be possessed of or intitled unto at the time of my decease I give and bequeath the same as followeth, that is to say I give and bequeath unto my father James Mollonex, Gardner in the Town of Whithaven Cumberland, all such Wages, Sum and Sums of Money as now or hereafter shall be due to me for my Service or otherwise on board this said Ship or any other Ship or Vessel,

And I do hereby nominate, constitute and appoint David Johnston, first Lieutenant and Andjt of Marines my Executor of this my last Will and Testament, and I do give and bequeath unto my said Executor all the Rest and Residue of my Estate whatsoever both Real and Personal, hereby revoking and making void all other and former wills by me heretofore made and I do declare this to be my last Will and Testament

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this tenth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy two and in the twelfth year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord George the Third by the Grace of God of Great Britain, France and Ireland King Defender of the faith...John Mollonex

Signed, sealed published and declared by the said John Mollonex as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses in the presence of the said Testator...Jobs. Furneaux Capt... Alex Dewar.

This Will was proved at London the twenty eighth day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy nine before the Worshipful Francis Simpson, Doctor of Laws, Surrogate of the Right Worshipful Sir George Day Knight Doctor of Laws, Master Keeper or Commissary of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury lawfully constituted by the oath of David Johnston Esquire the Executor named in the said Will to whom Administration of all and singular the Goods, Chattells and Credits of the deceased was granted, he having been first sworn duly to administer.

Samuel Moody sailed on the Endeavour as a member of the Carpenter's crew. He was born in Worcester in 1728 and died on 30 January 1771 as the Endeavour crossed the Indian Ocean. His will does not mention any family.

The will of SAMUEL MOODY (proved on 16 July 1771 (11/969)).

In the Name of God Amen, I Samuel Moody, belonging to his Majesty's Bark the Endeavour, Cook Commander, now bound to Parts beyond the Seas & not knowing how it may please God to Deal with me, being in bodily health and of Sound and disposing Mind and Memory, and Considering the Perils and Dangers of the Seas and other uncertainties of this Transitory life, Do for avoiding controversies after my Decease, I make, publish and Declare this my last Will and Testament in manner following, that is to say -

First, I commend my Soul to God that Gave it and my Body I Commit to the Earth or Sea as it shall please God to Order, and as for and Concerning all my Worldly Estate

I Give, Bequeath and Dispose thereof as followeth, that is to say, unto my Good Friend John Powell, Broker of Hoxton in the County of Middlesex, his Heirs and Assigns forever to receive all such Wages, Sum and Sums of Money, Lands, Tenements, Goods, Chattels and Estate whatsoever as shall be any ways due, owing, or belonging unto me at the time of my Decease. I do Give, Devise and Bequeath the same unto the said John Powell, his Heirs, Exectors , Admors or Assigns

And I do hereby Nominate and Appoint the said John Powell my Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former and other Wills, Testaments and Deeds of Gifts by me at any time heretofore made, And I do Ordain and ratify these presents to Stand and be for and as my only last Will and Testament Irevokable from all others

In witness whereof to this my said Will I have set my hand and seal the fifteenth Day of July in the year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred and 68 - And in the Eighth year of the Reign of his Majesty King George the Third over Great Britain &c. Samuel Moody (his mark)

Signed, sealed, published and declared in the presence of Jams. Cook, Z Hickes.

This Will was proved at London before the Worshipful William Neacham, Doctor of Laws and Surrogate of the Right Worshipful George Hay also Doctor of Laws, Master Keeper or Commissary of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury lawfully constituted on the Sixteenth Day of July in the year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred and Seventy one by the oath of John Powell the Sole Executor to whom Administration was Granted he having been first Sworn Duly to Adster.

The will of ALEXANDER MOUAT proved on 15 May 1794 (11/1245).

This is the last Will and Testament of me Alexander Mouat of Stock in the County of Essex, a Lieutenant on board His Majesty's Ship Marlborough. Whereby I recommend my Soul to Almighty God hoping through the Merits of my blessed Saviour and Redeemer Jesus Christ to inherit everlasting Life and happiness, and as to my Worldly Estate and Effects, I dispose thereof in manner following, that is to say -

First and Principally, I do hereby subject and charge the whole and every part of my Real and Personal Estate and Effects hereinafter given devised and bequeathed, with the payment of all and singular just debts, Funeral Expences and the Costs and Charges surrounding the Probate and execution of this my last Will, and subject thereto and rechargeable therewith, I give and devise all and singular my Freehold Messuages, Lands, Tenements and Hereditaments whatsoever and wheresoever situate, lying and being in the Kingdom of Great Britain, whereof or wherein or whereto (?) I am in any ways seized, possessed or intitled, or to which I have any disposing right or power, unto my dear Wife Jane, to hold the same unto and to the use of my said Wife her Heirs and Assigns for ever, all and singular, my ready money, Securities, money, plate, Linen and China, Household Goods and Furniture of Household, and all and singular of my Personal Estate and Effects of what (?) or (?)soever the same shall or may consist at the time of my decease, I give and bequeath unto my said Wife her Executors, Administrators and Assigns (?) to and for her and their own use and benefit, hereby revoking all former and other Wills by me at any time heretofore made. I publish and declare this present writing to be and contain my last Will and Testament only and thereof I nominate constitute and appoint my said dear Wife sole Executrix and Guardian to my daughter Margaret Jane and to every other Child or Children as I shall have living by my said Wife or that she may be ensient (sic) with at the time of my decease, during their several Minorities. The Testimony whereof I the said Alexander Mouat have to this my last Will and Testament set my hand and Seal this second day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety. Alexr. Mouat.

Signed, Sealed, Published and declared by the said Alexander Mouat the Testator, as and for his last Will and Testament on the day of the date in the presence of us who in his presence in the presence of each other and at his request have subscribed our names as Witnesses hereto Stephen Peter Mouat, Jno. Richards. Jno L Edgecombe.

This Will was proved at London the fifteenth day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety four before the Right Honourable Sir William Wynne Knight, Doctor of Laws, Master Keeper or Commissary of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury lawfully constituted by Oath of Jane Mouat, Widow, the Relict of the said deceased and sole Executrix named in the said Will to whom Administration was granted of all and singular the Goods, Chattels and Credits of the said deceased, having been first sworn by Commission duly to administer.

The will of WILLIAM BROUGHAM MUNKHOUSE (proved on 19 August 1771 (11/970))

In the name of God Amen, I William Brougham Munkhouse of Penrith in the County of Cumberland, Surgeon, being shortly to depart this Kingdom on a long and dangerous voyage, do make ordain and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following, that is to say -

I will and direct that all the debts which I shall Justly owe at the time of my death together with my Funeral Expences shall in the first place be fully paid and satisfied out of my Personal Estate by my Executor hereinafter named.

I Give, Devise and Bequeath all my Goods, Chattels, Moneys, Securities for Money, Wages and Prize Money, and other Personal Estate of what nature or kind soever and wheresoever that I shall die possessed of or be intitled to at the time of my decease unto my dear father George Munkhouse of Penrith aforesaid, Wine Merchant, whom I do nominate, constitute and appoint Sole Executor of this my Will, hereby revoking all Wills by me at any time heretofore made. In witness whereof I the said Testator have to this my Last Will, contained on one sheet of paper, set my hand and Seal the fourteenth day of June 1768. William Brougham Munkhouse.

Signed, Sealed, Published and Declared by the above named William Brougham Munkhouse the Testator as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have here unto subscribed our Names as Witnesses thereto in the presence of the said Testator and each other. Edwd. Stanley, Ral. Cooke.

This Will was proved at London before the right worshipful George Hay, Doctor of Laws, Master Keeper or Commissary of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury Lawfully constituted on the nineteenth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand Seven hundred and Seventy One by the Oath of George Munkhouse the Father of the deceased and Sole Executor named in the said Will, to whom Administration was granted of all and singular, the Goods, Chattels and Credits of the said deceased ha having been first sworn by Commission duly to administer.

James Nicholson (Nicolson) was an Able Seaman on the Endeavour on Cook's First Voyage. He was born in Inverness in 1747 and died on 31 January 1771 as the Endeavour crossed the Indian Ocean. He had been punished on 12 June 1769 for theft. His will does not mention any family and his friend, Alexander Simpson, to whom he left his possessions, died only three weeks after him.

The will of JAMES NICHOLSON (proved on 22 September 1779 (11/970)).

In the Name of God Amen, I James Nicholson, Seaman belonging to his Majesty's Bark Endeavour, Lieutenant James Cook Commander, being in Bodily Health and of sound and Disposing Mind and Memory, and Considering the perils and dangers of the Seas and other Uncertainties of this Transitory Life, Do for avoiding Controversies after my Decease make, publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament in manner following, that is to say -

First, I recommend my Soul to God that gave it and my Body I Commit to the Earth or Sea as it shall please God to order, and as for and concerning all my Worldly Estate

I give, bequeath and dispose thereof as followeth, (that is to say) all such Wages, Sum and Sums of Money, Lands, Tenements, Goods, Chattels and Estate whatsoever as shall be due, owing or belonging unto me at the time of my Decease, I do Devise, Give and bequeath the same unto my beloved friend Alexander Simpson, Seaman on board said Bark Endeavour

And I do hereby Nominate and appoint my Friend Alexander Simpson aforesaid my whole and Sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills and Testaments and Deeds of Gift by me at any time heretofore made, and I do ordain and ratify these presents to stand and be for and as my only Last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof to this my last Will and Testament I have set my hand and Seal this twenty ninth Day of January in the year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred and Seventy one and in the Eleventh Year of the Reign of his Majesty King George the Third over Great Britain &c. James Niolson.

Signed, Sealed, published and declared in the presence of Jams. Cook, J: Hickes, R Orton.

On the Second day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand Seven hundred and Seventy one, administration with the Will annexed of the Goods, Chattels and Credits of James Nicolson, otherwise Nicholson, otherwise Niolson, late belonging to his Majesty's Bark Endeavour, a Bachelor deceased, was granted to Robert Anderson, the Sole Executor of the will of Alexander Simpson deceased (whilst living) the Sole Executor and Universal Legatee named in the said Will, he having been first sworn duly to administer for that the said Alexander Simpson survived the Testator, but died without having taken upon him the Execution of the said Will.

The will of WILLIAM ORFORD (proved on 09 August 1788 (PROB 11/1329)).

In the name of God, amen, I, William Orford, invalid, late belonging to His Majesty's Ships Drake, Adventure and as belonging to His Majesty's Ship Lark, do make, publish and declare this my last will and testament in manner following, (that is to say):

All wages, sum and sums of money, land, tenements, goods, chattels and estate whatsoever as shall be any ways due, owing or belonging unto me at the time of my decease I do give, devise and bequeath the same unto my mother, Sarah Orford, living at No. 103 Brock Street, London.

And I do hereby nominate and appoint my said mother, Sarah Orford, sole executrix of this my last will and testament, hereby revoking all former and other wills, testaments and deeds of gift by me at any time heretofore made.

In witness whereof to this my said will I have set my hand and seal the twentieth day of February and in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety nine and in the thirty ninth year of the reign of His Majesty King George the Third. The mark of X William Orford. SS. Signed, sealed, published and declared in the presence of us Geo. Mottley, Agent. J.B. Cotman, Agent's clerk.

This will was proved at London the ninth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety nine before the Worshipful Charles Coote, Doctor of Laws and Surrogate of the Right Honourable Sir William Wynne, Knight, also Doctor of Laws, Master Keeper or Commissary of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury, lawfully constituted by the oath of Sarah Orford, widow, the mother of the deceased and sole executrix named in the said will to whom administration granted of all and singular the goods, chattels and credits of the said deceased, having been first sworn duly to administer.

The will of SIDNEY PARKINSON (proved on 30 October 1771 (11/972)).

I Sidney Parkinson, Painter, of the Parish of St. Ann's Soho, being to set out on a long and hazardous Voyage, from which God alone knows whether I shall ever return, I thought it proper to settle my Affairs so as what may be due unto me or what Things I may have may go to those of my Friends who most needs it. For which reason I desire that my Sister Britannia Parkinson may have what may be due unto me by Joseph Banks Esquire of New Burlington Street, London, from whom I have eighty pounds yearly and who has paid me up to Aug. 10th 1768 and ten Guineas more, the Money that I may happen to receive from him when abroad must also be deducted.

2ndly Out of the kind Regard I bear to my Friend William Galbreath, Peruke Maker, I desire that he may have one Guinea out of every Quarter's Salary that may be due unto me of the aforesaid.

3rdly I desire that my paintings on Vellum may be given to those for whom they are marked on the Back and whatever utensils that are useful in Painting or Drawing to Mr Lee's daughter, my Scholar.

All my other loose Things I leave unto my Brother Stanfield, and I hope this will be executed as faithfully as if it had been wrote in all the forms of the Law, being signed by me in the presence of William Galbreath, Witness - Sidney Parkinson
William Galbreath Witness.

I the underwritten Elizabeth Hayhurst of the Parish of Saint Ann, Westminster in the County of Middlesex, Spinster, do solemnly, sincerely and truly declare and affirm that I am one of the Dissenters from the Church of England commonly called Quakers, that I well know and was acquainted with Sidney Parkinson, late belonging to his Majesty's Bark Endeavour, a Batchelor, deceased, for several years before and to the time of his Death, and during such time several times saw him write and subscribe his Name and thereby became well acquainted with his manner and Character of Hand Writing and Subscription, and having now seen and carefully perused the paper writing hereunto annexed, bearing date the tenth day of July 1768, purporting to be the last Will and Testament of the said Deceased, do solemnly, sincerely, and truly declare and affirm that I verily and in my Conscience believe the whole Body and Contents of the said Will and the Name Sidney Parkinson thereto subscribed, to be all of the said deceased's Hand Writing - Eliza Hayhurst.
The said Elizabeth Hayhurst duly made the above affirmation or Declaration according to Act of Parliament before me *** Simpson Surrogate - present Rt. Slade Noty. Publ.

On the thirtieth Day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy one, Administration (with the Will annexed) of the Goods, Chattels and Credits of Sidney Parkinson, late belonging to his Majesty's Bark the Endeavour, a Batchelor deceased, was granted to Stanfield Parkinson, the natural and lawful Brother of the said deceased, he having first made a solemn and sincere Declaration or Affirmation according to Act of Parliament, duly to Administer, no executor or residing Legatee being named in the said Will, and Elizabeth Parkinson, the natural and lawful Mother and next of Kin of the said deceased having first renounced.

This is the last Will and Testament of me WILLIAM PERRY of the Parish of Hillingdon in the County of Middlesex, Doctor of Medicine.

I give and devise unto my Son Septimus Perry and his heirs for ever all that my Copyhold Estate and Premises situate at Hammersmith in the said County of Middlesex and held of the Manor of Fulham.

I give and devise unto my daughter Caroline, the wife of John Hicks, all those my five Copyhold messuages or Tenements with the Appurtenances thereto belonging, situate and being in the Prebend Manor and in the Parish of Chiswick in the said County of Middlesex. And also all that piece or parcel of Freehold ground situate in the Parish of Hillingdon aforesaid which I purchased of the Commissioners acting under the Hillingdon Inclosure Act and which forms the frontage to the messuage or tenement and Premises now in my occupation, To hold the same unto the said daughter Caroline Hicks her heirs and Assigns for ever. I give and bequeath unto my said daughter Caroline Hicks, All that my share in the first Class of the Tontine of 1789 being No. 205, but the same is not to be subject to the control, debts, or engagements of her present or any future husband

I give and devise unto my Grandson William Hughes Perry (the eldest son of my late son William Perry), All those two Capital Copyhold Messuages or Tenements with the Appurtenances thereto belonging, situate at Turnham Green in the Parish of Chiswick aforesaid, as the same are now in the occupation of Anthony Dobsworth and his undertenants, To hold to him the said William Hughes Perry, his heirs and Assigns for ever.

I give and devise unto my daughter Penelope, All other my Freehold and Copyhold Messuages or Tenements, Hereditaments and Premises situate at Turnham Green aforesaid, To hold the same unto my said Daughter Penelope and her Assigns for the term of her natural life, and after her decease I give and devise the same Messuages or Tenements, Hereditaments and Premises unto the lawful Child or Children of my said daughter Penelope, his, her or their heirs and Assigns for ever as tenants in common and not as joint tenants. And in case my said daughter Penelope shall not have any lawful issue living at the time of her decease, then I give and devise the said last mentioned Messuages or Tenements, Hereditaments and Premises unto my Grandson, the said William Hughes Perry and his heirs for ever.

I give and devise unto my daughter Ruth Anne Perry, All other my freehold and Copyhold Messuages or Tenements, Lands, Hereditaments and Premises situate in the Parish of Hillingdon aforesaid and which are now in the occupation of Septimus Perry, The Widow Grainge, Ralph Mason, William Froud and William Cowdery, To hold the Messuages, Cottages or Tenements and Premises now in the occupation of the said Widow Grainge, Ralph Mason, William Froud and William Cowdery unto my said daughter Ruth Anne Perry and her Assigns for the term of her natural life, and after her decease I give and devise the said premises now occupied by Septimus Perry unto all and every the Child and Children of the said Ruth Anne Perry his, her or their heirs and Assigns for ever as tenants in common and not as Joint tenants, and in case my said daughter Ruth Anne Perry shall not have any lawful issue living at the time of her decease, Then I give and devise the said last mentioned premises unto my said Grandson William Hughes Perry and his heirs for ever.

And I give and devise unto my Wife Ann, All the rest, residue and remainder of my freehold and Copyhold Messuages or Tenements, Lands, Hereditaments and Real estate whatsoever and wheresoever, To hold the same unto my said Wife Ann her heirs and Assigns for ever. And I give and bequeath all monies which may be due to me on mortgage at my decease and my policy and its additions in the Equitable Assurance Office, And all the rest, residue and remainder of my personal Estate of what nature, kind or quality soever the same may be after payment of my just debts, funeral and Testamentary expences unto my said Wife Ann for her own and absolute use and benefit.

And I hereby nominate. Constitute and appoint my said Wife Ann and (the following names are were originally written and were crossed through: The Reverend Charles Ball of Saint John's College Oxford, Doctor in Divinity) Edward James of Uxbridge in the County of Middlesex Executrix and Executor of this my Will and hereby revoking all other Will and Wills by me heretofore made, I do declare this only to be my last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof I have to this my last Will and Testament contained in this and the one preceding sheet of paper set my hand and seal, to wit my hand at the bottom of the said preceding sheet and my hand and seal to this last sheet this twenty fifth day of November in the Year of Our Lord One thousand eight hundred and twenty four. William Perry.

Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Testator as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who in his presence at his request and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses - the words "Edward James of Uxbridge in the said County of Middlesex, Surgeon" being first inserted in lieu of The Reverend Charles Ball of Saint John's College, Oxford, Doctor in Divinity who died on the 28th ultimo. Chas Pegler Stanmore, Charles Woodbridge, Sols. Uxbridge - Henry Geary Jnr. Clerk to Messrs Riches & Woodbridge.

Proved at London the 18th June 1827 before the Worshipful John Daubon, Doctor of Laws & Surrogate by the Oaths of Ann Perry, Widow , the relict & Edward James the Executors to whom Admon was granted having been first sworn duly to Admr.

Richard Pickersgill, who was born in West Tanfield, Yorkshire in 1749, sailed with Wallis on the Dolphin to Tahiti in 1767. On his return he transferred to the Endeavour as Master's mate. He maintained a Journal and Log and during the voyage he was punished on 12 October 1768 for disobedience. It did not affect his career as he was promoted and sailed on the Resolution as 3rd Lieutenant. He kept a Log on that voyage.

He died 1779 when he drowned in the River Thames, possibly drunk at the time. Pickersgill was commemorated by Pickersgill Island in South Georgia, Pickersgill Harbour in Dusky Sound, Pickersgill Reef off Queensland and Pickersgill Island in Queen Charlotte Sound.

The will of RICHARD PICKERSGILL (proved on (11/1057)).

In the Name of God Amen, I Richd. Pickersgill belonging to his Majesty's Ship Dolphin, Saml.Wallis Esq. Commander, being in Bodily health and of sound and disposing Mind and Memory, and considering the perils and dangers of the Sea and other uncertainties of this Transitory Life, do for avoiding controversies after my decease, make, publish and declare this my last Will and Testament in manner following, that is to say,

First, I recommend my Soul to God that gave it, and my Body I commit to the Earth or Sea as it shall please God to order, and as for and concerning all my Worldly Estate

I give, bequeath and dispose thereof as followeth, that is to say, I give and bequeath unto my beloved Uncle John Lee of the parish of St Olave Hart Street, London, all such Wages, Sum and Sums of Money, Lands, Tenements, Goods, Chattels and Estate whatsoever as shall be any ways due, owing or belonging unto me at the time of my decease. I do give, devise and bequeath the same unto the said John Lee, my beloved Uncle of the parish of St Olive Hart Street, London.

And I do hereby nominate and appoint the said John Lee sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former and other Wills, Testaments and Deeds of Gifts by me at any time heretofore made. And I do ordain and ratify these presents to stand and be for and as my only last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof to this my said Will I have set my hand and Seal, the fifteenth day of July in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and sixty six, And in the sixth Year of the Reign of his Majesty King George the third over Great Britain &c.

Signed, Sealed, published and Declared in the presence of John Pinckney, Willm. Gill.

This Will was proved at London the twenty second day of September in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy nine, before the Worshipful Andrew Colture Ducarel, Doctor of Laws, Surrogate of the Right Worshipful Peter Calvert, Doctor of Laws, Master Keeper of the Commissary of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury lawfully constituted by the oath of John Lee the sole Executor named in the said Will to whom Administration was granted of all and singular the Goods, Chattels and Credits of the deceased, having been first sworn duly to administer.

The will of NATHANIEL PORTLOCK (proved on 28th June 1818 (11/1600)).

This is the last Will and Testament of me Nathaniel Portlock of Gosport in the County of Southampton Gent.(?) Lieutenant in His Majesty's Navy, at present commanding His etc. armed (?) Brig the Assistant bound on a Foreign Voyage, made whilst of good health and of sound and disposing mind, memory and understanding, whereby I recommend my Soul to Almighty God and my Body I commit to the Earth to be decently buried and my Worldly Estate and Effects I dispose of in the manner following, that is to say -

First, I give and bequeath unto my dear Wife Elizabeth Portlock one moiety or half part of all and singular of my personal Estate and Effects whatsoever and wheresoever that I shall or may be possessed of, interested in, or anyways entitled unto at the time of my decease, to hold to her, her Executors, Admors. and Assigns to and for her and their own use and benefit,

And the other moiety or half part of my said personal Estate and Effects I give and bequeath unto my said Wife Elizabeth, Alexander Davison of Harper Street, Red Lyon Square, London, Merchant and the Reverend David Bogin of Gosport aforesaid Minister of the Gospel, and the Survivors or Survivor of them, her or his Exors. and Admors. in trust, to place the same out at Interest either on Government and Real Security in their joint names, or in the name of the Survivor her or his Executors or Admors, and to pay and apply the Interest, Dividends and profits thereof unto my said Wife Elizabeth during so long as she shall continue my Widow.

And from and immediately after her death or remarriage In trust to pay and apply the Interest, Dividends, Proceeds and profits thereof to and for the maintenance , education and support of my Daughter Eliza, Son Henry Powney and any other Child or Children as my said Wife is now ensient (sic) with. said Daughter Eliza, Son Henry Powney and such other Child or Children aforesaid shall obtain to their respective ages of twenty one years, and when and so soon as my said Childrern Eliza and Henry. and such other Child or Children as aforesaid shall attain to her his or their age of twenty one years, or if he she or they shall have died (?) at that age, at the death or remarriage of my said Wife, then. the said trust monies unto my said Daughter Eliza, Son Henry Powney and such other Child or Children as aforesaid in equal shares and proportions,

But if there should be but one of my said Children living then I give and bequeath the whole thereof unto such Child, her or his Executors, Admors. or Assigns unless any or either of my said Children so dying in the life time of or before the remarriage of my said Wife leaving issue of her, his or their Bodies living at the time of her, his or their decease, then and in such case, I give and bequeath the part or share of the one so dying having lawful issue as aforesaid, unto and equally between such issue of more than one, and if but one, the whole to such only Child to be paid them him or her, on their his or her, respectively attaining the age of twenty one years,

Provided always and my Will and intention is and I do hereby expressly order and direct that in case my said Wife shall happen to die in my life time and before my return from my said intended Voyage, that my Mother in Law, Mrs Mary Gilmour, Widow, at present living with me, shall be entitled to have and receive the whole of the Interest, Dividends and Profits of the said trust monies and premises to and for her own use during the term of her natural life if she shall so long continue a Widow and unmarried on a compensation for the trouble she will have in the care and breeding up my said several Children, or the Survivor of them and their, and in such case I appoint the said Mary Gilmour to be one of the Exors. of my said Will in conjunction with the said Alexander Davison and David Bogin as also a Joint Trustee with them for the whole of my Estate, it being my Will and intention, and I do hereby in such case give and bequeath the moiety of my said Estate, before given to my said Wife, absolutely unto, and equally between my said several Children, to be paid them in the like manner as the other moiety is hereby directed to be paid and applied to and for them, immediately on the death or remarriage of my said Wife.

And I do hereby nominate and appoint my said Wife and the said Alexander Davison and David Bogin Exors. of this my Will, and it is my Will and I do hereby direct that my said Executors shall not be answerable or accountable for any loss that may happen to all or any part of my personal Estate so as such loss be not through their wilful neglect or default, and also that they shall reimburse themselves out of my said Estate all such loss, costs, charges, damages and expences as they shall be put unto or sustain in the execution of this my Will or by reason or of any suit or suits at law or in. or any other matter or thing whatsoever relating to the same, and that one of them shall not be answerable for the other of them or for the acts, Receipts, payments or defaults of the other of them, but each of them for himself and herself, and for his and her own act, Receipts, payments and defaults only.

And lastly I do hereby revoke and make void all former and other Will and Wills by me at any time heretofore made, and declare this to be and contain my last Will and Testament. In Testimony whereof I have to this my last Will and Testament contained on two sheets of paper to the bottom of the first set my hand, and to this my hand and Seal this twenty seventh day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety one Nathl. Portlock.

Signed, Sealed, Published and declared by the said Nathaniel Portlock the Testator as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who at his request in his presence and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses, the interlineations between the second & Third lines, and the eleventh and twelfth on the first sheet, the interlineations between the eighth and ninth, the eleventh and twelfth lines of this sheet being first made Rd. Parson, Abm. Rose.

Codicil.
Whereas since making and executing my last Will and Testament hereto annexed bearing date the twenty seventh day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety one my Wife Elizabeth Portlock was delivered of a Child with which she was then ensient, which Child afterwards died and whereas since the making of my said Will I have two Children born from the Body of my said Wife, namely Joseph Ellison and Mary Campbell, now I do by this my Codicil, which I order and direct to be annexed to and taken as part of my said last Will and Testament, give and bequeath unto my said two last born Children, Joseph Ellison and Mary Campbell, proportionate parts of the moiety of my personal Estate and Effects equally with my two Children Eliza and Henry Powney named in my said Will and hereby positively direct and declare that they, my two last born Children shall take and be entitled to such proportion on the like terms, provisos and stipulations with my two older Children Eliza and Henry Powney, and I do hereby further direct and bequeath that all and every other Child and Children which I may hereafter have by my Wife Elizabeth shall be equally intitled to the said moiety from my personal Estate in like and equal proportions with my said before four named Children.

In Testimony whereof and that this is to be taken as a Codicil of one part of my said Will I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this fifth day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and one. Nathl. Portlock.

Signed, Sealed Published and declared by the above signed Nathaniel Portlock as and for a Codicil to his last Will and Testament hereto annexed which he directs to be taken as part and parcel thereof in the presence of us who at his request in his presence and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses. R Parsons Atto. Gosport. Jos. Parsons.

Proved at London with a Codicil 28th June 1818 before the Worshipful James Pearce Parson Dr of Laws & Surro. by the Oath of Elizabeth Portlock Ww. the Relict, one of the Exors to whom Admon. was granted having been first sworn duly to Admr. Power reserved to Alexander Davison & the Revd.David Bogin, the other Exors.

The will of DANIEL PRESTON (proved 1 October 1771 (11/971)).

In the Name of God Amen, I Daniel Preston, Marine of the Plymouth Division belonging to His Majesty's Bark Endeavour, Lieutenant James Cook Commander, being in bodily Health and of sound and disposing Mind and Memory, and considering the Perils and Dangers of the Seas and other uncertainties of this transitory Life, do for avoiding Controversies after my Decease, make, publish and declare this my last Will and Testament in manner following (that is to say) -

First, I recommend my Soul to God that gave it and my Body I commit to the Earth or Sea as it shall please God to order, and as for and concerning all my Worldly Estate I give bequeath and dispose thereof as followeth (that is to say) -

All Wages, Sum and Sums of Money, Lands, Tenements, Goods, Chattels and Estate whatsoever as shall be any ways due, owing or belonging unto me at the time of my Decease, I do give, devise and bequeath the same unto my beloved Brother William Preston of Wooburn in Bedfordshire. And I do hereby nominate and appoint my Brother William Preston aforesaid, whole and sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills, Testaments and Deeds of Gift by me at any time heretofore made, and I do ordain and ratify these presents to stand and be for and as my only last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof to this my said Will I have set my Hand and Seal the eighth day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy one and in the eleventh year of the Reign of His Majesty King George the third over Great Britain etc. Danl. Preston.

Signed, Sealed, Published and declared in the presence of Jams. Cook, J. Hickes, Rd. Orton.

This Will was proved at London before the Right Worshipful George Hay, Doctor of Laws, Master Keeper or Commissary of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury lawfully constituted on the first day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy one by the Oath of William Preston the Brother of the deceased and sole Executor named in the said Will, to whom Administration was granted of all and singular the Goods, Chattels and Credits of the said deceased having been first sworn by Commission duly to Administer.

The will of WILLIAM RANDALL (otherwise Randle) (proved 23 July 1781 (11/1080).

In the Name of God Amen, I William Randall, Serjeant of Marines belonging to His Majesty's Ship the Vengeance, Captain John Holloway Commander, being weak in body but of a sound and disposing Mind and Memory and considering the Perils and Dangers of the Seas and other Uncertainties of this Transitory Life, do for avoiding controversies after my Decease, make, publish and declare this my last Will and Testament in manner following, that is to say -

First, I recommend my Soul to God that gave it, and my Body I commit to the Earth or Sea as it shall please God to order,

- and as for and concerning all my worldly Estate I do give, bequeath and dispose thereof as followeth that is to say all my Wages, Sum and Sums of Money, Lands, Tenements, Goods, Chattels and Estate whatsoever as shall be any ways owing and or belonging unto me at the time of my decease, I do give devise and bequeath the same unto my loving friend Thomas Cummings, Drummer on Board His Majesty's Ship Vengeance as aforesaid, and do hereby nominate and appoint the said Thomas Cummings my sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills, Testaments and Deeds of Gift by me at any time heretofore made and I do ordain and ratify these presents to stand and be for and as my only last Will and Testament.

In Witness to this my said Will I have set my Hand and Seal this sixteenth day of November in the year of our Lord one Thousand seven Hundred and Eighty and in the twentieth year of the Reign of our Sovereign Lord George the Third of Great Britain, France and Ireland King, Defender of the Faith etc. etc. -   Wm Randall.

Signed, sealed published and declared in the presence of us English Harbour, Antigua, where no stamped paper could be had,
Thos. Doak,   George Maxted Serjt.,   Jno. Hawley Do.   Th. Young.

This Will was proved at London the twenty third day of July in the year of our Lord one Thousand seven Hundred and Eighty one before the Right Worshipful Peter Calvert, Doctor of Laws, Master Keeper or Commissary of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury lawfully constituted by the Oath of Thomas Cummings the sole Executor named in the said Will to whom Administration was granted of all and singular the Goods, Chattels and Credits of the deceased having been first sworn by Commission duly to administer.

Timothy Rarden was born in Cork in 1743. The will below shows that he sailed with James Cook in the sloop Grenville while Cook surveyed the coast of Newfoundland in the 1760s. He and his friend Richard Littleboy then accompanied Cook on the first voyage to the Pacific undertaken in HM Bark Endeavour. The Richard and Susanna Littleboy mentioned in this will were the parents of the Richard Littleboy who sailed with Cook. The only individual mention he warrants in the ship's journals or logs is, unfortunately, his death in Batavia (Jakarta) on 24 December 1770.

The will of TIMOTHY RARDEN (proved 15 July 1771 (11/969)).

In the Name of God Amen, I Timothy Rarden, belonging to his Majesty's Brigg the Grenville, James Cook Master and Commander, being of Sound and Disposing Mind and Memory, do hereby make this my last Will and Testament.

First, and Principally I Commend my Soul into the hands of Almighty God hoping for Remission of all my Sins through the Mercies of Jesus Christ my beloved Saviour and Redeemer, and my Body to the Earth or Sea as it shall please God,

And as for such Worldly Estate and Effects which I shall be possessed of or Intitled unto at the time of my Decease, I Give and bequeath the same as followeth, that is to say unto my beloved friend Richard Littleboy and Susannah his Wife of Parish of St Paul's Deptford in the County of Kent, and their heirs for ever,

And I do hereby Nominate, Constitute and Appoint the said Richard Littleboy and Susannah his Wife, Sole Executors of this my last Will and Testament. And I do Give and bequeath unto my said Executors All the Rest and Residue of my Estate whatsoever, both real and personal, hereby revoking and making void all other and former Wills by me heretofore made, and I do Declare this to be my last Will and Testament, In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this Twenty Ninth Day of December, year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred and Sixty Six, And in the Sixth year of the Reign of our Sovereign Lord George the Third by the Grace of God of Great Britain, France and Ireland, King Defender of the Faith &c. Timothy Rarden (his mark).

Signed, sealed, published and Declared by the said Testator...as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who have hereunto subscribed our names as Witnesses in the presence of the said Testator Jas. Griffiths, Jams. Cooke.

This Will was proved at London before the Worshipful George Harris, Doctor of Laws and Surrogate of the Right Worshipful George Hay also Doctor of Laws, Master Keeper or Commissary of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury lawfully constituted on the fifteenth day July in the Year of our Lord One thousand Seven hundred and Seventy one by the Oaths of Richard Littleboy and Susannah Littleboy (Wife of the said Richard Littleboy) the Executors named in the said Will to whom Administration was Granted of all and singular the Goods, Chattels and Credits of the deceased, they having been first sworn Duly to Administer.

This Will was proved at London before the Worshipful Andrew Colture Ducerel, Doctor of Laws, Surrogate of the Right Worshipful George Hay, also Doctor of Laws, Master Keeper or Commissary of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury lawfully constituted on the Twenty first Day of February in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven hundred and Seventy two by the Oaths of Richard Littleboy and Susannah Littleboy (Wife of the said Richard Littleboy) the Executors to whom Administration was Granted they having been first sworn duly to administer. A Probate of the said Will heretofore, to wit, in the month of July last, obtained by the said Richard Littleboy and Susannah Littleboy having been brought in voluntarily and Declared null and void as by the Acts of Court now fully approved.

The will of EDWARD RIOU (proved 27 April 1801 (11/1356)).

Being in perfect good Health and trusting to the Care of Almighty God to preserve me from day to day, yet considering that the morrow may never come and that it may be ordered by his Divine power I should depart this life suddenly, I think it a duty I owe to those Friends I may leave in this world to make this my Will and Testament as I possess a little Money that may be useful to them. My dear Cousin Joseph Berens Esquire of Kivington in the County of Kent holds of mine some small matter of stock in the 3 Pr Cents reduced in his name, I believe it amounts now to two thousand Pounds 3 Pr Cents.

[?] Sykes is my Navy Agent, whatever therefore may be mine to leave, I bequeath as follows -

- one Third of it to my dear Brother, Major Philip Riou of the Royal Regiment of Artillery,
- one third of it to my dear Sister Dorothy, the Wife of Lieutenant Colonel Lyde Brown to be for her use during her life and at her own disposal at her death as she may think fit and for that purpose received into the Trust of James Palmer Hobbs Esquire, Banker of New Bond Street and of Henry Berens Esquire, of Lincolns Inn,
-the last third, I bequeath to my Dearest and most esteemed friend Mrs Charlotte Hartwell, Wife of Commissioner Hartwell of the Navy, resident now at Chatham, in Testimony of the recurring friendship and pure affection which has subsisted between us from the earliest days of our acquaintance, and of the gratitude I feel for her unremitting and disinterested attentions and attachment to myself and to my dear Mother and Sister in all times of our sickness and distress, praying that God will preserve her in Mind and Body. The last mentioned Third I leave also in Trust of James Palmer Hobbs Esquire Banker of New Bond Street and of Henry Berens Esquire of Lincolns Inn, for the use of during her life and at the entire disposal at her death of my said dearest friend Charlotte Hartwell.

But previous to the above Division of my Property into thirds, I bequeath a tenth part of the whole I may possess at the time of my death to the said James Palmer Hobbs Esquire and Henry Berens Esquire, to be by them equally divided for their own use and at their own disposal.

Nevertheless not one of the above bequests are to take place during the life time of my dear Mother whilst she lives, all that I die possessed of is to be placed in the Trust of the said James Palmer Hobbs Esquire and Henry Berens Esqr. and the Interest of it to be paid by them to her for her use. But at her death then the above mentioned bequests in favour of my Brother, and Sister and dear friend Charlotte Hartwell with those in favour of James Palmer Hobbs Esquire and Henry Berens Esqr. are to be executed.

It is my particular request also that my small painted writing box containing a few private papers be delivered unopened to my said friend Charlotte Hartwell.

Should I therefore be so fortunate by Capturing Prizes or by any other means as to become possessed of any Sum or Money more than I now have either considerable or over so little, this is my last Will and Testament trusting in the Almighty to enable me whilst I live to be virtuously serviceable in the Cause of my King and Country, and that when I die, wretched sinner as I am, His Divine Justice will not treat me as I deserve, but that I may dare to hope that I may not be Cast away from his heavenly Mercy and this alone through the Mediation of Jesus Christ.

To my dear Cousin Joseph Berens Esquire of Kivington in the County of Kent, To his Son Henry Berens Esquire of Lincolns Inn and to my worthy and dear Friend James Palmer Hobbs Esquire of New Bond Street Banker, I commit the Execution of this my last Will and Testament trusting they will not think it too much trouble to see it executed and with the warmest Remembrance of these three Friends as well as of those three to whom I have bequeathed my property by thirds with the within mentioned Provisees I place my Seal and Sign my name - E Riou.

Witnesses, John Gold [?], Purser of His Majesty's Ship Amazon, Joseph Rose, Clerk of His Majesty's Ship Amazon.

N.B. 15th Jany. 1801 Having Closed accounts and withdrawn my Naval Agency from Mr Sykes, Mr Dayel [?] of the Navy Office does now that Business for me - E. Riou.

Should (at my death) either of my friends James Palmer Hobbs or my Cousin Henry Berens be dead, the Survivor is to take the tenth mentioned in this Will to himself, and should either of the three persons to whom I have bequeathed my property by thirds be dead then the surviving two are to share it equally, and should two be dead then the one surviving is to take the whole with this exception, that should Mrs Hartwell be the Survivor of my Brother and Sister, and thereby become possessed of the whole, at the death of Mrs Hartwell it is to be the new property of the Child or Children of my Sister and of the Legitimate Child or Children of my Brother should he marry and have any, to be equally divided amongst them. E Riou, 23d. Jan. 1801.

On which Day Appeared Personally Thomas Smallwood of Bond Street in the County of Middlesex Gentleman and made Oath that they knew and were well acquainted with Edward Riou late of Berwick Street in the Parish of Saint Mary le Bone in the County of Middlesex and Captain of His Majesty's Ship Amazon who died at sea off Copenhagen, for some time before and to the time of his death which happened on the second Instant as they have been informed and verily believe, and that during such their knowledge of and acquaintance with him, the said deceased, they have seen him write and subscribed his name to writings and more and are thereby become well acquainted with his manner and character of handwriting and subscription and having now carefully viewed and perused the paper writings hereunto annexed purporting to be the last Will and Testament and two Codicils of the said deceased, the said Will beginning thus "Amazon 21st June 1800, At Sea, being in a perfect good Health" ending thus "I place my Seal and Sign my name" and thus subscribed "E Riou", the first Codicil beginning thus "N.B. 15th Jany. 1801" ending thus "that Business for me" and thus subscribed "E. Riou", The second of the said Codicils beginning thus "Explanation and Codicil - should at my death" ending thus "to be equally divided amongst them" and thus subscribed "E.Riou 23rd Jany. 1801" They these Deponents do Jointly and severally depose that they do verily and in their Consciences believe the whole of the said Will and the different interlineations appearing therein, particularly the words "during her life" appearing in two parts of the said Will, the words "at her death" appearing in two parts also in the said Will, the words "nor one of" and the words "unopened" appearing in the said Will, and the whole of the said Codicils beginning, ending and subscribed as aforesaid to be all of the proper hand writing and subscription of the said Edward Riou Esquire the Testator deceased - Thos. Smallwood. - The same day the said Thomas Smallwood was duly sworn to the truth of this Affidavit before me - J Parson Surr. Pot. - Thos Farrar Not. Pub., R Parrott - On the twenty fourth day of April 1801, the said Robert Parrott was duly sworn to the truth of this Affidavit: - before me J Sewell Surr. - Pot. - Thos. Farrer Not. Pub.

This Will was proved at London with two Codicils the twenty seventh day of April in the Year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and one before the Worshipful Samuel Pearce Parson, Doctor of Laws, Surrogate of the Right Honourable Sir William Wynn, Knight, also Doctor of Laws, Master Keeper or Commissary of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury lawfully constituted by the Oath of Joseph Berens Esquire, Henry Berens Esquire and James Palmer Hobbs Esquire, the Executors named in the said Will, to whom Administration of all and singular the Goods, Chattels and Credits of the said deceased was granted having been first sworn duly to Administer.