Every genealogist looking in original parish registers will undoubtedly come across notes and jottings by the local incumbent. Whether they relate to the weather, unusual longevity of a parishioner, or other event, they can provide a varied and interesting insight into the lives of our ancestors.
Whilst examining the parish registers of the Essex village of Felsted, one of our searchers came across a note in the register in February 1769. It simply read "A new vicar expected unknown".
This parish was clearly in the process of gaining a new vicar, although as yet one had not been appointed, or if he had, the writer of this note was as yet unaware. Despite this, he chose to record this information in the register, showing how expectantly the parish was awaiting the new incumbent!
