We are now getting into the early 16^th^ century. The requirement for parishes to record baptisms, marriages and burials did not start until 1538, and most parishes didn't really start until the reign of Elizabeth I in 1558.

That on or about the eighteenth daie of June anno Dm one thousand six hundred twentie seven Anthony Luther of Kelvedon in the Countie of Essex Esquire being sick in body but of ___ minde memory and understanding did declare and make his last will and testament nuncupative in these words following or the like in effect __ his Brother Richard Luther standing by his bedside

I Anthony Luther of Kelvedon in the county of Essex Esquire being in good and perfect memory and health (Thanks be to God) do make this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following (That is to say)

Richard Luther was born in 1626/27 and baptised at St. Nicholas, Kelvedon Hatch in Essex on 8^th April 1627. His parents were Anthony and Jane (nee Armstrong) Luther. He was part of a large family of at least 10 children, but many of his siblings died in infancy or childhood.