MERTON, a parish in the hundred of SHEBBEAR, county of DEVON, 5 miles (N. by W.) from Hatherleigh, containing 697 inhabitants. The living is a rectory in the archdeaconry of Barnstaple, and diocese of Exeter, rated in the king's hooks at £20. 15. 7. Lord Clinton was patron in 1794. The church is dedicated to All Saints. Potheridge house, once the residence of the celebrated General Monk, who rebuilt it, was a noble structure, with a chapel attached, and some magnificent stables, which yet remain; the mansion is now occupied as a farm-house. Pipe and potters' clay exists in this parish.