Sandy,
Rev. Francis Broade, D.D., rector of Benefield, vicar of Southwick was the son of Rev. Thomas Broade, M.A., rector of Turnaston, Benefield and Chaldon and Ann Lodington.
He was christened 19 November 1723 at St. Anne's Soho and died on 22 October 1791 at Southwick Hall, Southwick, Northamptonshire. He married Martha Lynn (d. 4 February 1796, Southwick), daughter of George Lynn, F.S.A., of Southwick Hall and his wife Elizabeth Bellamy, daughter of Humphrey Bellamy of London.
George Lynn's brother was Rev. John Lynn, M.A., B.A., vicar of Southwick and it seems Rev. Francis Broade took over from him after his death.
This Rev. Francis Broade is also the sister of Anne Broade who married Thomas Lodington, who is also my ancestor.
So you are indeed correct that Benefield was taken over by a relative, in this case, his son. As you also notice, he was vicar of Southwick, also in Northamptonshire.
By the way, Rev. Francis Broade and Anne Broade had a sister Mary Broade (chr. 11 October 1726, Benefield, Northamptonshire) who married a Thomas Bradford on 16 July 1749 at Benefield, Northamptonshire. It could be likely this Thomas Bradford may be of a gentry or clergy family too. If you happen to come across any reference to him in the registers too, then it would be very much appreciated if you could forward such information onto me.
Thank you for the assistance.
Kind regards,
Jame R. Yeowell
