Family and Education

b. c.1557, 1st s. of Ralph Michell^†, mayor of Bodmin. educ. Gloucester Hall, Oxf. 1575; L. Inn 1576, called 1584. m. 21 Nov. 1589, Frances, da. of Anthony Roscarrock of Crowan, 4s. 2da. suc. fa. 1578.

Offices Held

Mayor, Bodmin 1604-5.

Biography

There were various branches of the Michell family in Cornwall. The Bodmin Michells became prominent about the middle of the sixteenth century, maintaining their local importance for at least three generations. The family was described as having ‘an hereditary mildness of disposition and universal benevolence’, and as being ‘genteel without ambition’. Michell himself was presumably a practising lawyer. At the time of his death he held four acres of land in Bodmin and over 40 acres in other places, as well as various gardens, orchards, and a share in the ownership of at least six houses. He died 28 Mar. 1614, being succeeded by his son Philip. His will has not been found.

Vivian, Vis. Cornw. 321; J. Maclean, Trigg Minor, i. 192, 236, 292; C. S. Gilbert, Hist. Surv. Cornw. ii. 199; C142/340/198.

Ref Volumes: 1558-1603

Author: N.M.S.

Notes