Thomas Longridge Esq of Walbottle (1692-1725)

Thomas Longridge, second surviving son of Michael and Elizabeth Longridge, baptised at Newburn 30th May 1692, and succeeded his father in his leaseholds at Walbottle in Newburn. He died there on 18th December 1725 aged 33, and there is a mural monument to his memory in the chancel of Newburn Church. This monument has on the top a bust of the deceased with the arms of Longridge below, Per pale argent and gules,three fleurs de lys counterchanged, surmounted by a helmet supporting an arm with the hand clasping wheat ears. It bears the following inscription:

'Here rests the body of Mr Thomas Longridge of Walbottle who died 18th December 1725,aged 33. His charity, good nature and benevolence procured him ye love and esteem of all and rendered his death universally lamented. Also near this place lyeth William his son who died 12th February 1744, aged 25. Michael, son of Mr Michael Longridge of Walbottle,died 2nd February 1747, aged six weeks'.

Thomas died intestate, and administration of his effects was granted at Durham on 1st February 1726 to his widow, Jane Longridge. Her surities in the administration bond were Michael Fairlam of Delaval, yeoman, and William Law junior of Newburn Hall,gent. As John Fairlam of Burnhill was one of the guardians appointed by Michael Longridge's will in 1726, it may be suspected that Elizabeth, the mother of Michael and Thomas Longridge, belonged to this family.

Thomas and Jane Longridge had four children, of whom only Michael and George left issue.