Hertford

Hertford is just north of London.  It would appear that as early as 1515 the surname Jones [spelled Joones in this case] was already active in the legal records.

"Edward Joones" is the name.  He is listed as "of London, brewer". [bundle 421/ no. 52 ]  His case involves a "John Ayleworth of Bristol".  The reason is "detention of deeds, messuage & land in Ridge". London and Bristol were key sea ports for trade through out the rising commerical network.  Why the case is recorded in Hertford is unclear, but I would guess that Edward Joones' family must be from this county.  A "brewer" indeed he is...cheers.