The Marchioness of who?  That was the reaction of members of The Badsey Society way back in 2005 when they came across a reference to the Marchioness of Downshire in some Badsey and Aldington Enclosure Awards.  Books had been written about Badsey’s history, much research had been done, but never before had we heard of anyone by the name of the Marchioness of Downshire.

On a recent visit to Witley Court, seat of the Foley family for many generations, I was reminded that the Foleys also owned the Manor of Aldington for some 140 years.  Thomas Foley, an ironmaster, acquired the estate in 1665.  Six generations of Foleys, all named Thomas, were lords of the Manor of Aldington until the estate was sold in 1806.

At the time of Aldington and Badsey enclosures, in 1808 and 1815 respectively, John Jones was a major landowner in the village.  His family had owned land in the village for several generations.

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Family Background

John Jones was born at Badsey in 1759, the eldest of four children of Piercy Jones (1710-1802) and his wife, Elizabeth Squire (née Silvester).  He was baptised at St James' Church, Badsey, on 28th October 1759.