James Philip Hewlett II [1810 - 1878]
James Philip Hewlett II was born
at Headington, Oxford, on February 26, 1810. Little is known of his early
years other than the family were living in Oxford at the time of the death
of his father, James Philip Hewlett I in 1820. He was influenced by the
evangelical faith of his parents, particularily his Mother. Initially he was
a 'Dissenting Clergyman' but many years later he took Anglican Orders.
He married Elizabeth Shackleford on
May 3, 1836 and the couple had seven children. When their eldest son,
John Howe was born on October 18, 1840 the family were living at 8 Charlton
Terrace, near Dover.
Little is known about the Shakelford family but it is stated on Elizabeth's
birth certificate that she was born in Cheshire.
In 1874 James Philip Hewlett II was presented to the
living of Purton, Wiltshire, by his Patron, the Earl of Shaftesbury. Here he
remained until his death in 1878. This annual income was 698 pounds with house
provided. He ministered to a Parish of 2,344 people.
The old village around the Church at
Purton is remote from hustle and bustle and seemingly untouched by time. The
church is not far from the chalky vale of the White Horse, and like many
buildings in the area the Church of St. Mary the Virgin incorporates some timber
work. It is unique in England, having both a tower and a steeple. The origins of
the church are Norman as seen in the plain columns of the nave. On the walls are
traces of early frescoes which were hidden for many years. Perpendicular
additions were made much later, with some fan-vaulting above the altar. (written
by Peg Jones, gggrandaughter of JPH II)
The church building was completed in the
15th century.
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The
second daughter of James Philip Hewlett II and
Elizabeth Shakelford wrote several letters to her
children reflecting on some of her childhood
experiences, her parents, siblings and marriage to
Edward Alden:
Meanderings
in the Years that are Past
These are of great interest if you are descended
from this family.
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James Philip Hewlett II died on August 5, 1878
and was buried in the Purton churchyard against the North wall where
his grave is shaded by trees.
He left a valid Will appointing his wife, Elizabeth and his sons
John Howe and Arnold Melville as executors. It was dated July 27,
1878. The terms of the will were that his property was to be
invested for Elizabeth's lifetime and she was to receive the
proceeds. After her death it was to be divided between his five
children, "except that my son Russell must have eighty-five pounds
less than the others, he having anticipated to that extent at
least." His son-in-law, Edward Cox Alden, was appointed to dispose
of his library with the agreement of the executors. The will was
proved at Salisbury on October 5, 1878. A search of records at
'Somerset House' reveals that the value of the estate was less than
one thousand five hundred pounds.
Headstone transcription
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Till He come
here rest the mortal remains
of
James Philip Hewlett
sometime Vicar of this Parish
Born at Headington Oxon
February 26th 1810
He departed this life August 5, 1878
looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus unto eternal
life
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The life and homegoing
of his widow
Elizabeth Hewlett
are also lovingly commemorated here
She fell asleep Feb 20th 1906 aged 91
and was buried at Wheatley Oxon.
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Their third and youngest daughter
Sarah Secunda Hewlett
after 34 years service in India
as Medical Missionary
returned to the Homeland in 1912
Fell asleep July 4th 914, aged 65
and was laid to rest with her Father
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Thou wast their rock, their fortress and their might
Thou Lord the captain in the well fought fight
Thou in the darkness drear, their one true light.
Alleluia |
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