FAMILY
At this point, the only thing we actually know about Edward Knighte of Stockbury is that his will was proved in 1556 (PRC/3/14/44).
I suspect he is related to, possibly a son of, the Edward Knight of Stockbury whose will was proved in 1515.
He is also probably related to, and possibly the father of William Knight from the next-door-parish of Bicknor.
KNIGHT FAMILY MEMBERS BUYING UP LAND IN STOCKBURY
Real estate records show there were other Knights in the area at this time:
- Richard Knight (I) is first mentioned in Stockbury during 1531. He, William Smyth, John Edwarde and John Plott bought a house and 40 acres. William Pettyte later sold him an additional 40 acres of farmland and a 20 acre wood. This was the same “Richard Knight of Stockbury” who later purchased acreage in Detling and Boxley.
- John Knight was one of 5 men who purchased land in parcels of land in Stockbury, Hartlip, Rainham and Newington in 1545. One of his partners, John Plott, has already been mentioned in connection with Richard. This is third link between the Knights and Plotts, which raises the possibility that their families were more than business associates. William Pettyte, and his brother Edward, were the venders.