Shakespeare family will found by historian

A 1642 will has been discovered at The National Archives, causing a legal dispute over William Shakespeare’s property in Stratford-upon-Avon. This significant finding has shed new light on the famous playwright’s life and legacy.

The will, made by Thomas Nash on 25 August 1642, was found in a box of Chancery documents from the 17th century and earlier. It is believed to be the original version of the will, which has never been seen before. This discovery has sparked excitement and curiosity among historians and Shakespeare enthusiasts alike.

The will has caused a stir due to its connection to William Shakespeare’s property in Stratford-upon-Avon. It is well-known that Shakespeare was a successful businessman in addition to being a renowned playwright. He owned several properties in Stratford-upon-Avon, including the famous family home, New Place.

The will in question was made by Thomas Nash, who was married to Shakespeare’s granddaughter, Elizabeth Hall. In the will, Nash bequeaths his share of New Place to his wife, Elizabeth. This has raised questions about the ownership of New Place and whether Shakespeare had any involvement in its transfer.

The discovery of this will has sparked a legal row over the ownership of New Place. Some experts believe that this will could provide evidence that Shakespeare had a direct hand in the transfer of the property to his granddaughter and her husband. This could potentially change the current understanding of Shakespeare’s involvement in the property and his relationship with his family.

The National Archives, where the will was found, is a treasure trove of historical documents. It is the official archive of the UK government and holds over 11 million records, dating back over 1000 years. The discovery of this will is a testament to the importance of preserving and cataloging historical documents for future generations.

The National Archives has expressed their excitement over this discovery and the potential impact it could have on our understanding of Shakespeare’s life. They have also highlighted the importance of preserving and digitizing these documents to make them accessible to a wider audience.

This discovery has also reignited interest in Shakespeare and his legacy. The playwright’s works continue to be studied and performed around the world, and this new information adds another layer to his already fascinating story. It is a reminder of the enduring impact of Shakespeare’s works and the importance of preserving historical documents for future generations.

The will has also sparked discussions among scholars and historians about the legal and social customs of the time. It provides a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people and their relationships with the famous playwright. This will be a valuable resource for researchers and will contribute to our understanding of Shakespeare’s life and times.

The National Archives has promised to continue their efforts in preserving and cataloging historical documents, ensuring that important discoveries like this will continue to be made. This will not only enrich our understanding of the past but also inspire future generations to delve into the fascinating world of history.

In conclusion, the discovery of the 1642 will at The National Archives has caused a legal row over William Shakespeare’s property in Stratford-upon-Avon. This significant finding has sparked excitement and curiosity among historians and Shakespeare enthusiasts, and has the potential to change our understanding of the famous playwright’s life and legacy. It is a reminder of the importance of preserving and cataloging historical documents for future generations to learn from and appreciate.