Will of John James. Where was Old Furnace ? (General)

by pojames , Thursday, July 25, 2013, 08:10 (4134 days ago)

Many thanks for all the replies re. Thomas James and his forebears. Pleased to find what I am (at least for the moment) assuming to be his father's will - John James, 1829. A son Thomas is much mentioned.

John is described as being of 'Old Furnace' in the Hundred of Briavels. Googling around, I can find mentions of 'Old Furnace Bottom', and various other Old Furnaces; but does anyone know where this was ?

Also mention of the Brew House, (presumably pub) as though it was obvious which was meant. Is its whereabouts known ?

The will is at http://www.forest-of-dean.net/downloads/Wills/JAMES_Will_of_John_James_1829.pdf , if anyone is interested in having a look.

There's also mention of 'Partridge Patch Gate'. Again, is anyone familiar with it ?

I know nothing of the general standard of living in the FOD in the early 19thC, but he seems to have been pretty affluent. Is that the impression anyone else gets ?

Thanks in advance !