1758 Dorothy Davison's Will

This is the earliest original document referencing Rudchester that we have seen. We do not have any other information abour Dorothy Davison and we do not have access to the original, which is in the Durham Probate records from 1758, and is available online from the FamilySearch website.

"I Dorothy Davison late of Newburn but now of Rudchester Spinster do make this my last Will and Testament as follows I Give to my Brother William Davison One Guinea, To my Sister Margaret Tate Five pounds, To my Sister Grace Scott Five pounds, and to my Sister Mary Bolam One Pound and all the rest and residue of my Estate and Effects whatsoever I Give and bequeath to my Sister Sarah Davisson whom I hereby appoint Executrix of this my will , revoking all former Wills by me made . In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the Ninteenth day of February in the year of our Lord One thousand seven hundred and fifty eight."

The total (exlcuding "all the rest and residue") 1 guinea, £5, £5, plus £1, is the equivalent of approximately £3,000 in 2026.