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jn. 


Of  this  work  net  mure  than  loo  large  paper,  and  500  small  paper, 
copies  have  been  printed,  of  which  this  is  No.  /^§*    sma/i  paper. 


t^t  (Recorb0 


or  tva. 


oroujp  of  (Tlorf  ^ampfon, 


Tfo'O  VOLUMES. 
The  Loko   BisHor   or   Losdo^ 


W.      RVLA^D      n.     ADCI^i.      B    * 


Christopher    A.    Markham.    f-S*a. 


^  "71.  ckiii  rt*v^ 


&M^, 


Rf.v.    J.    Charles    Cox.    ll.d.,   f.s^. 


4«^ 


PUBLISHED   BY    ORDER   OF  THE   CORPORA? 

COUNTV   BOROUGH   OF   XORTHAMPTON. 
1898- 


VOLUME    TWO. 


PAGE 
iii. 


Preface  ,.,         

Introduction       ...         ,.  ...         ...         i — 9 

Civic  Government  and  State 11 — 99 

Civic  Jurisdiction        loi — 149 

Town  Property,  Buildings,  and  Revenue     151—212 

Commons  and  Cattle 213—229 

Public  Health         231 — 271 

The  Town  Trades        273—308 

Freemen  and  Apprentices  ,.. 309 — 326 

Charitable  Foundations       ...         ...         ...         ...         ...         ■■■327 — 379 

All  S.^ints'  and  othrr  Churches        3S1— 423 

The    Defences    of    Northampton    and   the    Commonwealth 

Struggle      425—463 

Rov.vL  Visits  and  National  Events 465—490 

MeMBEMS    of    P.IHLIAMENT  ...  ...  ...  .,.  .,  ..  491^512 

Topoghaphical         ...         ...  ...         ...       513 — 528 

Vakia  et  Addenda        ...         ...         ...         ...         ...         ...         ,,.529^544 

Appendix,  with  Lists  of  Mayors  and  Borol'ch  Officials       545 — 571 
Index         573 


€^t  (glecorbe 


OF   THE  . 


(^oroug^  of  (Jtorf  Pam^)<on, 


SECOND     VOLUME. 


1550   TO    1835. 


J.    Charles     Cox,     ll.d.,    f.s.a., 

Author  of  "  Churches  of  Derbyshire," 

Three  Centuries  of  Derbyshire  Anttats,'   "How  to  write  the  History  of  a  Parish," 

"  The  Gardens  of  Scripture,"  &c. 


PUBLISHED    BV    ORDER    OF    THE    CORPORATION 

Ot      THE 

COUNTY  BOROUGH  OF  NORTHAMPTON. 


Bonfton:     Elliot    Stock,    62,    PATERNOSTER     Row. 
Qnorf&tmpf on :     Bihdsalf.    &    Son,    Wood    Street. 


1898. 


v.t. 


PRINTED    BY    STANTON    AND    SON,    A8IKGT0N    STREET. 
1898, 


Preface. 


■pARLY  in  the  spring  of  1895  1  was  asked  to  report  to  the 
Town  Council  of  Northampton  on  the  condition  and  contents 
of  their  muniments  with  a  view  to  printing  and  publication.  In 
accordance  with  this  request,  a  report  was  presented  through  the 
Town  Clerk.  Eventually,  after  some  delay,  the  Corporation 
decided  to  undertake  the  publication  of  two  volumes,  the  last 
of  which  has  fallen  into  my  hands.  It  was  decided  that  those 
who  did  the  work  should  do  so  on  independent  lines,  so  that 
I  am  only  responsible  for  this  volume.  The  plan  adopted  has 
no  doubt  its  advantages,  but  it  prevents  any  unity  of  action, 
or  distinct  method  of  treatment. 

The  later  documents  and  books  pertaining  to  the  Corporation 
are  very  numerous,  and  require  continuous  comparison  and  colla- 
tion in  order  to  arrive  at  satisfactory  results.  The  chief  difficulty 
has  been  to  compress  each  subject,  so  as  to  confine  the  result 
to  the  projected  550  pages.  Some  idea  of  the  labour  involved 
in  the  preparation  of  this  volume  can  be  formed,  when  it  is 
stated  that  only  a  little  more  than  one-third  of  what  had  to  be 
copied  was  eventually  used  in  its  extended  form. 

No  two  people  would  probably  entirely  agree  as  to  the  best 
plan  to  follow  in  the  arrangement  of  such  a  volume,  or  in  the 
comparative  importance  to  be  given  to  specific  subjects.  All  that 
can    be  said   is  that  an   honest  attempt  has  been   made  to  adopt 


IT 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


a  practical    and    uscfu)  plan,  and    advice  has    been    sought    and 
followed,  from  several  well  qualified  to  give  it. 

Information   other  than    that    fouad    in    the    local    muniment 
has  only  been  sparingly  used:  but  where  documents  at  the  Public 
Record  Office,  British  Museum,  and  BodJeian,  etc.,  threw  additional  J 
light  on  particular  subjects,  they  have  been  carefully  consulted  and 
cited.     It  should,  however,  be  clearly  understood  that  this  volume 
does  not  in   any  way  pretend  to   be    a    history  of    Northampton 
from  the  lime  of    Philip  and  Mary.      No  reference  will  be  found, 
in  these  pages  to  any  subject  that  is  not  named  in  the  local  records.^ 
Nor  are  there  any  extracts  from  the  records  later  than  1835,  save 
in  the  list  of  mayors,  which  is  brought  up  to  date. 

In  addition  to  material  help  from  several  members  of  my  own.] 
family,  I  desire  to  specially  thank  my  friends,  the  Rev.  R.  M.j 
Scrjeantson  and  Mr.  Bruce  B.  Muscott,  for  much  literarj'  assistance ; 
Mr.  H.  Manfield  for  the  excellent  photographs  of  the  Corporation 
insignia  ;  and  Mr.  T.  Shcpard  for  his  beautiful  and  careful  drawings 
of  the  civil  and  ccclcsiaatical  seals  of  the  town  and  of  the  old 
Guildhall. 

Several  Northampton  townsmen  have  put  me  under  obligation 
by  the  generous  loan  of  private  manuscripts,  prominent  amongst 
them  being  Mr.  W.  D.  Crick  and  Mr.  H.  G.  Toser.  The  former 
put  at  my  disposal  a  charming  little  set  of  eight  MS.  volumes^ 
relative  to  the  town,  containing  a  variety  of  information  not  found 
elsewhere,  as  well  as  the  MS.  record  of  the  great  election  of  1767  ;] 
whilst  the  latter  lent  the  MS.  chronicle  termed  "  Northampton 
Mayors  and  Bailiffs,  commencing  in  1461,  with  several  Remarkable] 
Occurrences."  On  the  inside  of  the  cover  is  written  "  Joseph 
Hall,  J785.  I  wrote  this  Book,  and  continued  it  from  the  year 
above  written."  This  last  book  is  frequently  referred  to  in  the] 
following  pages  as  the  Hall  MS. 


PREFACE.  T 

Nor  must  I  omit  to  mention  my  continued  indebtedness  to  the 
Town  Clerk  and  Clerk  of  the  Peace,  Mr.  William  Shoosmith,  for 
his  constant  kindness,  and  for  his  readiness  to  give  me  the  fullest 
access,  at  all  times,  to  the  literary  storehouse  in  his  charge.  It  is  a 
pleasure,  too,  to  thank  my  friend  Mr.  W.  B.  Shoosmith  for  much 
valued  help. 

A  literary  experience  of  thirty  years  at  the  Public  Record  Office 
and  British  Museum,  has  invariably  caused  me  to  be  grateful  for 
the  courteous  attention  of  the  officials.  Recent  visits  to  both  these 
public  institutions,  in  connection  with  the  production  of  this  volume, 
have  confirmed  my  previous  oft-repeated  opinions,  but  my  particular 
thanks  are  in  this  instance  due  to  the  British  Museum  MS.  authorities 
for  leave  to  inspect  a  great  number  of  "  Additional  Charters  "  per- 
taining to  Northampton  which  are  not  yet  calendared.  Those, 
desirous  of  obtaining  careful  and  reliable  help  in  record-hunting, 
or  in  any  form  of  transcript  work,  cannot  do  better  than  put 
themselves  in  the  hands  of  Messrs.  Hardy  &  Page,  of  21,  Old 
Buildings,  Lincoln's  Inn. 

With  regard  to  the  index,  which  will,  I  trust,  be  found  full  and 
complete,  the  almost  unanimous  advice  of  experienced  and  practical 
men  has  been  followed  in  making  it  a  single  index,  instead  of  one 
of  many  divisions.  It  is  the  first  time  I  have  myself  followed 
that  method  for  a  large  book ;  but  as  a  frequent  index  user,  it 
commends  itself  much  to  my  own  judgment. 

The  particular  circumstances  under  which  this  volume  was 
produced  have  rendered  it  more  liable  than  usual  to  author's  slips 
and  printer's  errors  when  under  revision.  I  have  noticed  about 
a  score,  but  so  far  as  I  am  aware,  they  are  all  trivial  and  readily 
detected,  so  it  is  not  thought  worth  while  to  insert  a  list  of  errata. 
Doubtless,  in  a  book  covering  so  wide  an  area  of  subjects,  there 


VI  NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 

are  some  more  serious  blemishes  or  mistakes.  I  shall  be  grateful 
to  any  one  who  will  point  them  out  to  me,  either  privately  or  by 
way  of  review.  Whatever  may  be  its  faults,  it  is  the  first  time 
that  a  volume  of  this  kind,  dealing  with  the  inner  life  and  govern- 
ment of  an  English  borough  during  the  last  three  centuries,  has 
been  attempted. 


J.  Charles  Cox,  LL.D.,  F.S.A. 


Holdenby  Rectory, 

October,  1897. 


Illustrations. 


Plate  I. — The  Maces  of  the  Town  of  Northampton 
Platk  II. — Silver  Badge  and  Mace  Heads  ... 
Plate  III. — Seals  of  the  Town  of  Northampton 
Platk  IV.— The  Old  Town  Hall,  Northampton 
Plate  V.— Eliiabethan  Standard  Bushel 
Plate  VI. — Ecclesiastical  Seals  of  Northampton 
Plan  of  the  Old  Town  of  Northampton      ... 


To  face 

P- 

82 

P- 

88 

P- 

142 

P- 

172 

P- 

194 

P- 

338 

At    tnd 

"/ 

vol. 

CONTENTS.  IX 


Contents. 


PAGE, 
Section   One. — Inlroductory  ...  .,,  „  ...  i 

The  town  muniments — Many  of  them  lost  in  Ihc  fire — Placed  in  All 
Saints,  1553 — Coffer  of  1608 — Threats  to  break  open  iron  chest,  1664 — 
Custody  of  the  three  keys — New  iron  chest  in  1790 — Mutilation  of 
documents  by  Alderman  Hall,  i8oo-~Mr.  Baker,  the  historian — Mr. 
Stuart  Moore's  calendar  — Private  charters,  leases,  and  evidences,  from 
1150  to  183s — Orders  of  assembly,  and  minutes  of  the  aldermen's 
court  — Mayor's  and  chamberlain's  accounts — List  of  apprentices  and 
freemen,  and  other  books — Separate  papers  and  documents — Transcripts 
of  public  records  for  the  toll  case — General  aim  of  this  volume. 

Sectiom  Two.—CMc  Government  and  Stale       il 

The  assembly-~-Its  popular  character — Great  change  of  1489 — Its  com- 
ponentparts — The  Twenty-four — The  Forty-eight — Lists  of  the  house — 
Refusal  of  the  Forty-eight  men  to  serve — Mr.  Perceval's  opinion,  and 
appeal  to  king's  bench — New  charter — Failures  to  make  a  quorum — 
Irregularities  of  finance — Report  of  committee  and  of  commissioners — 
The  mayors  and  mayors'  accounts — Court  of  aldermen — Bailiffs — 
Chamberiains  and  chamberlains'  accounts — Town  clerk  and  town 
attorney — The  mace  bearer  and  great  mace — The  four  serjeants-at- 
mace— Bellman  and  beadles — Hall  keeper — Waits — Flag  bearers — Dress 
of  assembly. 

Sectios  Three. — Cinic  jurisdiction  ...  ...  ...  ...        loi 

Recorders — Town  Counsel — Coroners — Treasure  Trove — Magistrates — 
Stewards— Court  of  record  or  hustings — Orphans'  court — Statute 
merchant  recognizances^Staple  merchants  and  inventories — Mayor  as 
arbitrator—  Mayor  as  escheator — Vernalls  inquests — Convictions  for 
swearing— Constables,  thirdboroughs,  and  dozeners — The  town  seals — 
Judges  and  assiies. 


Section   Four. — Town  Property,  Buildings,  and  Revenues      151 

The  property  of  the  town  in  1586— Gradual  loss  of  property— Long 
leases  and  fines — Possessions  of  the  Gobion  family — Purchase  of  Gobion 
manor  by  the  town  in  1622 — Inclosure  act  of  1799— The  first  town 
hall — The  second  town  hall,  temfi.  Edward  I. — Enlarged  in  Henry  Vll. 
reign — Again  enlarged  in  1631— The  town  gaols — Houses  of  correction 
or  bridewells — Out  relief  for  the  poor — Begging  badges — Relief  of  the 
unemployed — Spinning  wheels — Relief  in  winter — St.  George's  hall — 
Markets  and  fairs— Market  tolls— The  market  cross— Weights  and 
measures — Tumbrel,  pillory,  and  stocks — Traverse  tolls— The  great 
toll  case — The  fee  farm. 


X  NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 

Sbctiun  FiVK.—C&mmoHs  and  Cattl* 

The  Eown  commonalty  once  a  village  community — Finder,  ho^herd, 
and  h-ciHKmjii  — pjdiire  time*  on  the  comTnor^^Numbrc  of  cow«  and 
homes  prrmiticd  to  guio — Taintors  on  thp  commons — The  indoRure 
of  Northampton  field — Willow*  on  Ihe  rommons^The  town  bull — 
A  herdiwomat) — Brarding  day  and  branding  dinners — Hogs  and  Cbe 
hofherd — Pinfolds — Vermin— DuRon  lordahip  or  abbot's  niciidow. 


SiCTiox  Six.— Public  Htattk 


231 


The  plague  at  1578— The  attAcla  of  HS03-.S— The  college  uwd  as  a 
league  house — Terrible  aitack  In  1638 — Paruthlal  retiirni  of  die  dent  Id 
from    plague  — l^t«r    from    Dr.  Clarks   to    Sir    |ohfi    Larabe— Shortw 

«ttlll^ll  of    1638 — Outbm-ilt    si   1648 — Clioice    □!    ike  tower   huiiM;    3s    an 

infectious  hospital— Account  of  ilie  lower  house— Watch  and  ward 
during  London  plague  of  1666 — Fire  3I  Cotton  end,  156 1— Precautionary 
Eliubeth.in  ordors  agiiinEt  fire^Town  lire  bucleets  Itept  in  th« 
churches — Preciulion*  of  164,1 — The  Jtrcat  fire  of  '675 — Reiolutions  of 
the  assembly— Relief  of  the  disCrcised^Nincty-nine  ycar^'  leases  on 
condition  of  tebiiilding — The  rebuilding  act  of  parliamrnl  and  its 
working— B«nrf,iclors'  board,  All  S.iinU — Later  firr.s — The  grtat  and 
littl«  conduits— Drought  in  160A,  and  restiictionii  of  hours  of  w.iler 
supply — Utc  of  conduits  forbidden  10  btcwcrs  and  innkeepers — Shops 
and  |jiide«rell  under  conduit  hall— Homes  built  at  the  conduil,  1685-6— 
Scarlet  wtil  waterworks — The  icateruoiki  of  WiHiiim  Wylces— Tank 
at  Wood  Hill  — Little  conduit  pemovt'd  in  1831  —  Water  carts— Public 
pumps  and  wells— St.  Tbotnas'  well — The  chalybeate  spring  of  Vigo 
Hid  the  new  walk— Sanitary  rondition  of  the  streets  nod  hoaies— 
Town  muck  heapt — Sanitarj-  overscars— Overcrowding— Paving  of  the 
highways — Appointment  of  scavenger — Lighting  of  the  itreet*~Slca*age 
due — Incroachments— ScaVGbjers  appointed  by  statute. 


SscnoK  Sevek.— Tftff  Timn  Tndet 


XJ3 


Th»  prevalent  trades  of  the  town — Trade  guilds  in  Northampton — 
Anialgamiied  trado"  constitution  of  1574— The  bakers— D I ffereiW 
kinds  of  bread,  and  horae-breid— The  buicheis — Dispute  as  10  th« 
butchers'  stalls— The  e  handlers- Fishmongers  and  fi*hinjf— The  fuller* — 
The  glovers — The  hosiers- The  ironmongers — The  mercers— Millen 
And  mills — The  shocmaken — Shoes  for  the  army  in  ifi4a — The 
tailors  and  woollen-drapers — Whittawets  .ind  tanners — fnnholdets, 
brewers,  and  maltsters — List  of  inns  and  alehousvi — Benvfaciions  for 
poor  tradesmen. 


Section  Eicrt.— >'ivn«M  amd  Apfr&nHcn 


309 


General  conditions  of  obtaining  the  freedom — Order*  of  1SS3 — 
Various  Elizabethan  regulalidiis— List  of  fre«men  from  IJ^I— Fees  for 
the  town  freedom— A  quakcr  frccwoman  of  1722 — The  scandal  of 
1733— Burgess    bouks— The     new    charier    of    1796    .ind    renewal    of 


CONTENTS.  XI 

freedom — Freedom  fees  in  1834. — Apprentices  and  covenanted  servants 
from  1561  to  1593 — Implements  of  their  trade — Earlier  entries  in  orders 
of  assembly — Orders  of  1635 — Later  regulations. 

SscTiON  Nine. — Charitable  Foundaiiona 337 

Hospital  of  St.  Leonard — A  parochial  chapel — The  major's  oath — 
St.  Leonard's  farm  and  the  laierman — Seal  of  St.  Leonard's — Hospital 
of  St.  John — Complaints  against  the  masters  and  their  non-residencB — 
Endeavours  of  corporation  to  secure  control — Seal  of  St.  John's — 
Hospital  of  St.  Thomas— Its  management  by  the  corporation—Removal 
of  inmates,  1854 — Demolition  of  buildings,  1872 — Langhams'  charity — 
Sir  Thomas  White's  loan  charity — Freeman's  charity— The  free 
grammar  school  and  its  masters — The  corporation  and  education — 
Tables  of  benefactions  in  town  hall — Report  of  corporation  committee 
in  1783. 

Section  Ten.— ^W  Saints  and  olher  Churches 381 

St.  Andrew's  prioiy  and  All  Saints — The  advowson  granted  to  the 
town  by  Cardinal  Pole,  and  sold  in  1835 — The  will  of  John  Quarrior — 
Elizabethan  church  usages — Calvin's  Catechism  and  Puritan  confession 
of  faith — Visitation  of  1 637— Scandalous  condition  of  the  church — 
Dr.  Sihthorpe's  correspondence — The  vicars  and  their  stipends — 
Ministers  during  the  Commonwealth — Sale  of  next  presentation  in 
1746 — The  fabric — The  fire,  and  the  rebuilding — Portico,  cupola,  and 
statue  of  Charles  II. — Seats — Mayor's  cushion — Black  hangings — 
Galleries — Organ  and  Organist — Bells — Customs  of  the  church,  1620 — 
Inventories — Sale  of  altar  plate  to  pay  debts — Sexton — Varia— Other 
churches  of  the  town— St.  Katharine — St.  Mary— St.  Gregory — 
St.  Giles— St.  Peter— And  St.  Sepulchre. 

Section    Eleven. — The    Defences   of   Northampton    and    the  Common'niealth 

Struggle 425 

Grants  of  murage^Walls  rebuilt,  1301 — Bailiffs  responsible  for  their 
repair — The  town  gates  and  bridges — Frequent  bridge  assessments — 
The  great  civil  strife — Ship  money  denied  by  Northampton  — Refusal 
of  trained  bands  to  leave  the  liberties — Northampton  garrisoned  for 
the  Parliament  —Work  at  the  fortifications — Scout  horsemen — Trees 
felled— The  garrison  and  the  covenant — Raising  of  volunteers — 
Demolition  of  the  walls  and  castle— -Soldiers  and  trained  bands — Troops 
for  the  Elizabethan  wars  in  Ireland —Billeting  soldiers,  1637-9 — 
Muster  roll  ot  1667 — Volunteers  of  1794 — Arms  and  armour,  temp. 
Elizabeth  and  James — Town  arms  and  munition  in  1643 — Arms 
sutiendered  in  1662 — Watch  and  ward — Elizabethan  regulations — The 
orders  of  1645. 

SSCTION  Twelve.— ffoyfl/   yisits  and  National  Events 465 

Royalvisits— Norman,  Plantagenet,  and  Tudor  kings— Queen  Elizabeth's 
three  visits— James   I,   and   Holdenby   house — Charles  1.  and    Queen 


Xll  NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 

Mary— William  III.— Queen  Victoria  in  1844— National  Events— The 
Armada-— Fifteenths  and  tenths — Nationa]  assessments — Oath  oE 
allegiance — James  II.  and  removal  of  town  officials— The  revolution 
of  1688 — Bonfires  for  victories — Queen  Anne  and  the  Marlborough 
wars — The  four  Georges— The  assassination  of  Mr.  Perceval — George 
IV.  and  WillUm  IV. 


Suction  Trirtbbn. — Members  of  Parliament     491 

Payment  of  members  in  1338 — Election  of  members  of  the  assembly 
by  the  assembly— Returns  temfi.  Philip  and  Mary — Elizabethan 
elections — Return  of  the  recorder  and  his  son — Elections  under  the 
Stuarts — A  single  member  during  the  commonwealth — Contested 
elections  in  1661 — Contests  in  1663,  1670,  and  1678 — Walpole's 
excise  bill — Wholesale  creation  of  freemen,  1733 — Householders  and 
not  freemen  declared  electors — The  notorious  election  of  1768— 
Gigantic  expenditure— Extracts  from  Hall's  MS. — Corporation  vote 
;£iooo  for  their  candidate  in  1826 — Elections  of  1830  and  1831. 


SttCTiON   Fourteen. — Topographical  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...       513 

Abbot's  meadow — Abington  street— Austin  lane — Ball's  lane — Balmes- 
holme  lane— Bearward  street— Bell  Barn  lane— Bailifls  hook — Black 
friars  lane- Bridge  street — Butchers'  row — Cap  lane — The  Chequer — 
College  street — Cow  lane-Crackbelle  lane— Derngate — The  Drapery — 
Drum  lane — Dychurch  street-  Fennell  well  — Fetter  lane  — Fleshmonger 
street— The  Friaries — The  Glovery — Gobion  lane — The  Gut — Gyselgot — 
Hermitages  — Hogmarket  lane — The  Horeemarket — Horseshoe  lane — 
Ivie  lane — King  street — Knight  street  —Lady  lane — Marvells  mill  — 
Marehold  — Mercers  row— Mountsonel — Newland— North  street — .Nuns 
well— Quart  pot  lane — Pike  lane — Rood-in -the -wall — St.  Giles'  street  — 
St.  George's  row — St.  John's  lane — St.  Leonard's  street  -  St.  Martin's 
street — St.  Mary's  street  -  Scarletwell  lane — Sheep  street — Silver  street 
— Smerckerenererowe — Swinewell  street— Three  pots  lane — The  Tower — 
West  street — Wood  street— Wood  hill— Wool  monger  street. 


Section  Fiftbkn. —  Varia  el  Addenda      ...         ...         ...         ...       529 

The  Mayor— Oaths  of  the  Town  Clerk,  Bailiffs,  and  Steward— Vernal  Is 
inquest — Town  waters  in  1553 — Common  labour— Stourbridge  fair — 
Merchant  from  Constantinople — State  lotteries — The  South  Bridge- 
Bedford  and  Market  Harborough  road — Postmaster — Horseracing— The 
Free  Grammar  School  —  Navigation — Railways. 


Appendix  549 

Lists  of  Mayors,  Bailiffs,  Chamberlains,  Town  Clerks,  Steward.*,  Serjeants- 
at-mace.  Town  Criers,  and  Masters  of  Free  Grammar  School. 


section  one. 
Introductory. 

Thi  Town  Muniuents — Many  of  thsm  lost  in  thb  firb — Placbd  in  All  Saints, 
>553— CoFPBK  OF  1608 — Threats  to  break  open  iron  chest,  1664— Custody  of  the 
THREE  KEYS — New  iron  crest  in  1790 — Mutilation  of  documents  by  Alderman 
Hall,  1800 — Ms.  Barer,  the  historian — Mr.  Stuart  Moore's  calendar 
— Private  charters,  lbasss,  and  evidences,  from  1150  to  1835 — Orders  or 
assembly,  and  minutes  of  the  aldermen's  court — Mayor's  and  chamberlain's 
ACCOUNTS — List  of  apprentices  and  freemen,  and  other  books — Separate 
papers  and  DOCUMENTS— Transcripts  of  public  records  foe  the  toll  cask 
— General  aim  of  this  volume. 


INTRODUCTORY. 

T^HE  infonnation  contained  in  the  following  pages  is,  in  the 
main,  gathered  from  the  town  muniments,  excluding  the 
charters  and  customary,  which  have  been  so  fully  treated  of  in 
the  first  volume. 

In  studying  the  records  of  so  important  a  borough  as  NortJi- 
ampton,  not  a  little  disappointment  is  experienced  in  finding  them 
exceedingly  meagre  up  to  thfe  close  of  the  reign  of  Henry  VIII. 
There  are,  for  instance,  no  records  or  rolls  ot  even  the  briefest 
description,  with  regard  to  the  town  proceedings  earlier  than  this 
date,  whilst  as  to  rolls  or  minutes  of  the  various  town  courts  held 
within  the  walls,  there  are  none  extant  until  quite  recent  years. 

The  terrible  fire  of  1675  was,  in  all  probability,  the  cause  of 
the  loss  of  a  considerable  number  of  the  town  records.  That  the 
corporation  were  at  one  time  possessed  of  a  large  series  of  records, 
made  evident  from  the  endorsements  on  many  old  grants  and 
other  deeds  still  extant,  to  the  effect  that  these  deeds  had 
been  enrolled  on  "  The  Rolls  of  the  Memoranda  of  the  Court 
of  Northampton."  The  existing  minute  books  also  testify  to  the 
loss  of  many  others;  for  they  refer  to  the  "Book  of  Processes," 
the  "  Steward's  Book  of  Annual  Memoranda  of  Court  Proceedings," 
thd  '■  Chamberlain's  Book  of  Commons  and  Cattle,"  "  Orphans  Court 
Book."  "Book  of  Escheats,"  and  the  "Bailiff's  Journals,"  all  of 
which  are  now  missing.  In  other  places  references  are  found  to 
the  constable's  books  of  the  different  wards  or  quarters.  Town 
constable's  books  would  certainly  be  kept  at  least  as  carefully  as 
the  many  known  examples  in  country  parishes,  and  would  be  full 
of  interesting  matter  relative  to  watch  and  ward,  fires,  arrests  of 
suspects,  &c. 

Nevertheless,  the  town  is  much  to  be  congratulated,  not  only 
on  the  rescue  from  the  great  fire  of  the  charter.';,  the  customary, 
two  large  minute  books,  with  a  few  other  volumes,  and  a  bundle 
or  two  of  evidences,  but  also  on  the  preservation  of  a  considerable 
amount  of  valuable  historical  material  of  a  later  date. 

The  guildhall  was  one  of  the  few  buildings  that  was  preserved 
from  serious  damage  during  the  fire.     Probably  all  the  old    muni- 

B  2 


NORTHAMPTON     BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


ments  ttiat  then  escaped  destruction  were  in  safe  keeping  in  one 
of  the  upper  chambers.  'Hic  to«Ti  documents  that  had  been  stored 
in  All  Saints'  cliurch  would  almost  certainly  perish,  for  on  the 
outbreak  of  the  fire,  the  chief  townsmen  rushed  to  that  great 
centra!  stone  building,  there  to  deposit  their  portable  treasures, 
but  the  flames  made  such  leaps  upon  the  church  that  the  fabric 
and  its  contents  were  consumed  with  startling  rapidity. 

One  of  the  very  first  years  for  which  orders  o(  the  assembly  are 
extant,  gives  proof  of  the  care  that  the  burgesses  intended  to  take  of 
theirarchives.  In  1553,  the  town  records  were  moved  forsafe  keeping 
to  the  church  of  All  Saints,  which  had  recently  been  given  to  the 
mayor  and  burgesses  of  Nurlhampton.  At  an  assembly  held  in 
October  of  that  year,  it  was  agreed  :— 

Th.it  lit  th»  K«ofjrd«i  ihalbe  purt  (n  the  vestry  of  our  Ixdy  ChapMI  in  a  praMt 
to  b«  loickeil  irilh  iij  lokkn  &  to  liavc  iij  keys  [hereto  &  lo  be  in  scvcrall  mcu 
kvping  thai  i>  to  **y  tn  tbe  nn>tor>  for  one,  another  ■»  the  hepini;  of  one  ot  llw 
ssiiij,  Jc  th«  third  in  the  keying  u(  one  of  the  xlviij  ytdy  from  heniforlhe  Qto  be 
biuueht  in  by  ths  Stewtude  yetl/  by  t1i«  laal  u[  Dccsinbti] 

The  term  "all  the  Recordes"  would  not  refer  to  the  whole  of 
the  muniments,  for  they  could  not  be  contained  in  a  single  press, 
even  oi  considerable  ^ize ;  probably  it  meant  all  the  records  of 
court  proceedings,  the  remainder  of  the  muniments  being  still 
kept  at  the  guildhall. 

The  following  later  entries  afford  further  evidence  of  the 
interest  that  the  corporation  took,  from  time  to  time,  in  the  due 
preservation  of  their  muniments. 

In  [607,  the  assembly  ordered  the  chamberlains  to  provide — 

One  coffer  or  chat  therein  ta  inclose  or  put  oil  wrytings  Mcripts  myntnienu  tt 
evidences  whiUocver  tendyn^  or  concerning  onic  deniiac  of  anie  bnd  belongiag 
■o  fhe  Corporation,  It  that  this  same  coffer  or  chctc  shalbe  likeirtiie  provided  three 
Mvcxall  kcycs,  lo  wit  one  key  for  the  Malor  of  the  town  of  Northampton  for  the 
lyme  bcin^.  and  ih other  two  Iieyex  Krcrmllic  for  tbe  Chainbcrkinits  of  tba 
Slide  lowne. 

On  October  13th,  1664,  the  assembly  passed  a  resolution,  in 
connection  with  a  dispute  then  raging  with  Mr.  V'aughaii,  the 
ex-mayor,  which  shows  that  the  more  important  writings  were  at 
tliat  time  kept  in  an  iron  chest : — 

That  tkn  grut  Iron  Chest  in  w**  the  towne  Rccoida  Be  M-ritelnp  doe  lye  be 
broaimn  open  uoletse  Mr.  Vangban  doe  forthwith  Deliver  the  Kef  (to  Iha  Mafor) 
of  one  of  the  Padluclu  belonifing  lo  the  s'  CHcM. 

A  somewhat  later  entry  shows  that  the  three  keys  of  this  record 


I 


INTBODL'CTORV. 


"eBwt  were  in  the  respective  custody  of  the  mayor,  the  senior 
chamberlain,  and  one  ol  the  bailifis.  The  custody  oi  these  keys, 
however,  differed  at  various  periods. 

The  mayor's  accounts  for  1745  state  that  three  new  padlocks 
were  provided  for  the  corporation  chest,  at  a  cost  of  4s.  6d. 

A  new  iron  chest  and  its  carriage,  for  the  tovvn  halt,  cost 
^.  98.,  in  1790.  The  mason's  charge  for  building  this  safe  into 
the  wall,  yvas  tts. ;  and  the  carpenter's  for  making  a  cupboard  for  it, 
gs.  1  id. 

A  case  for  books  at  the  town  hall,  in  iSoo,  cost  ^$.  t2s.  gd., 
wliibt  £4.  145.  6d.  was  paid  for  a  lock  for  the  same,  with  six  keys. 
TT»e  costly  litigation  of  1831-3,  usually  known  as  the  great  toll 
case,  to  which  future  reference  will  be  made,  brought  to  Ufjhi  some 
curious  farc«  with  regard  to  the  occasional  careless  treatment  of 
lown  documents.  Mr.  TheopSilus  Jeyes,  when  under  examination  in 
court,  stated  tlial  he  became  lown  clerk  in  1800,  and  that  in  that 
or  the  following  year,  he  one  day  found  Alderman  Hall  (who  had 
twice  s«frvpd  a^  mayor,  and  was  then  one  of  the  m  agist  rat  est)  with 
a  great  number  of  leases,  old  charters,  and  other  documents 
t^f^fonging  to  ^^c  corporation,  spread  out  on  a  table  in  the  guildhall. 
He  had  takpn  a  pair  of  scissors  out  of  his  pocket,  and  wa»  in  the 
act  of  clipping  ofl  the  margin,  with  seal  and  signatures,  from  a 
lease,    with    the    probable    intention    of    giving    it    to    some    seal 

I  collector.  Mr.  Jeyes  remonstrated,  but  ihe  alderman  laughed,  and 
cut  several  others,  saying  that  these  old  things  were  quite  useless, 
and  Jiad    better   be   dcbtroycd.      However,    he    suffered   the    town 

I  clerk  to  rescue  the  mutilated  lease,  and  the  rest  were  restored  to 
their  proper  place.  It  so  happened  that  this  very  document  was 
a   lease    of    the    town    tolls,    and    had    to  be   produced    in   court, 

'whereupon  Mr.  Jeyes  gave  this  evidence  to  account  for  its  muti- 
lated condition.  He  further  stated  that  the  alderman  had  taken  the 
dKd^  out  "  a  very  old  wooden  chest,  bound  with  iron,  in  an  upper 
chamber  of  the  guildhall." 

io  1^13,  Mr.  George  Baker,  the  local  hiistorian,  applied  for 
leave  to  inspect  the  corporation  journals,  records,  and  other 
documents,  in  order  to  ossiit  him   in  an   intended  history  of  the 

I  town  and  county  of  Northampton,  which  he  was  about  to  publish. 
The  lAiembly  granted  him  full  access  to  ^ver^-thing,  under  the 
direction  of  the  town  cterk,  provided  that  nothing  was  takeo  out 
«f  ehe  town  clerk'*  custody. 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


Mr,  Stuart  A,  Moore,  F,S,A.,  did  a  f^ood  work  for  the  corpora- 
tion in  1S64,  when  he  drew  up  a  manuMrript  calendar  of  the  archives 
and  muniments,  having  previously  arraoKetl  thetn  with  much  care. 
He  also  made  a  full  transcript  of  the  Liber  Cmtumarum. 

The  work  ot  compiling  this  present  volume  has  been  verj* 
considerable,  and  can  only  be  appreciated  b/  those  who  have 
undertaken  similar  work.  An  immense  amount  of  material  has 
had  to  be  digested  and  assimilated  before  the  simplest  looking' 
facts  or  extracts  c-an  be  presented  to  the  reader.  But  it  is  only 
due  to  Mr.  Stuart  Moore  to  say  that  this  work  would  have  been 
far  more  laborious,  if  that  antiquary's  task  had  not  previously 
been  undertaken.  It  would,  however,  be  an  advantage  to  have 
Mr.  Moore's  calendar  re-edited  or  revised,  for  one  or  two  valuable 
old  books  and  papers  have  brcn  recovered  since  1864..  the  general 
arrangement  has  been  somewhat  changed,  whilst  several  documents 
(fortunately  of  minor  importance)  have  disappeared  during  the 
time  that  has  elapsed  since  the  compilation  of  the  list. 

Those  who  desire  full  information  as  to  the  contents  of  the 
Northampton  muniment  room,  and  obtain  the  necessary  per- 
mission, are  referred  to  Mr.  Moore's  calendar.  It  would  tak«  far 
too  many  pages  of  our  limited  space  to  attempt  its  reproductioD 
here,  even  In  an  abbreviated  form.  It  must  suffice  to  state  the 
contents,  up  to  1835.  in  quite  general  terms. 

In  addition  to  the  charters  proper,  the  town  possesses  a  con- 
siderable number  of  private  charters  or  grants,  evidences,  leases, 
etc.,  pertaining  to -the  property  of  the  corporation.  These  include 
two  hundred  and  twenty  one  iteparate  deeds,  which  vary  in  date 
from  about  1150  to  1834,  The  majority  of  the  earlier  documents 
arp  the  title  deeds  of  the  St.  Leonard's  property  to  which  reference 
is  afterwards  made.  Others  relate  to  Gobion's  manor,  and  different 
possessions  of  the  corporation,  both  within  and  without  the  walls. 
The  whole  series  abounds  in  information  of  value  to  the  local 
topographer  or  antiquary,  of  which  only  transitory  use  has  been 
made  in  these  pages. 

The  two  great  folio  books  of  the  orders  of  assembly,  which 
have  afforded  the  lai^er  part  of  the  information  given  in  this 
volume,  must  be  described  with  some  little  detail,  particularly  as 
the  first  of  these  was  not  known  to  Mr.  Moore,  and  the  second 
one  has  only  four  lines  of  description  in  his  calendar. 

The  earliest  of  these  thick  volumes  (both  of  which  are  heavily 


tNTRODUCTORY. 


bound  in  leather  covered  boards,  now  much  damaged)  extends 
(fom  15+7  to  1627.  THc  orders  of  assembly  occur  bjt  fitfully  in 
the  first  three  hundred  pages ;  and  they  are  interspersed  among 
copies  of  current  leases,  and  various  town  agreements  and  eoroU 
ments.  The  fint  assembly,  wlu)«e  minutes  are  noted,  met  on 
January  30th,  1551-2;  and  the  next  on  December  23rd,  1553-  The 
minutes  of  three  assemblies  are  given  for  the  year  1554,  tu-o  Cor 
1555,  and  one  for  1558.  From  1565  down  to  1627.  the  assembly 
minutes  occur  with  regularity,  save  for  sonic  three  or  four 
omissions,  for  which  blank  pages  have  been  left.  Amongst  the 
other  subjects  dealt  with  in  this  book,  in  addition  to  minutes  of 
aiscmbly  and  transcript*  of  deeds,  are  :— mayor's  and  chamberlain's 
Accounts  for  1553,  interrogatories  and  answers  in  several  Eliza- 
bethan local  suits :  trade  constitutions  for  the  bakers,  butchers, 
Unncrs,    etc..    of    the    town,    chiefly    between     1565     and      1585: 

^^copics    of    wills    that    included    town    bequests :     enrolment    of    a 

^Hew    apprentices ;    minutes   of    the    mayor  and    aldermen's   court, 

^Ks58-g;    and    various   inventories  of  goods    seized,  chiefly  for  tbe 

Hvcar  1562. 

J^^  This  book  is,  unfortunately,  very  defective;  according  to  the 
paging^,  pages  I  and  3,  and  7  and  S,  as  well  as  all  between  t66 
and  233,  and  240  and  249,  are  missing.  In  addition  to  this,  there 
are  several  leaves  cut  away  in  different  places,  before  any  con> 
seculive  paging  was  adopted. 

The  second  great  volume  carries  on  the  orders  of  assembly 
uninterruptedly  from  1628  to  1744.  The  same  volume  contains 
copies  of  deeds  enrolled  by  request  at  tiie  courts  of  record  held 
by  the  mayor  and  coroners  in  Ihti  guildhall  between  1638  and 
1719.  Other  incidental  matters  here  recorded  are:— a  committee's 
resolve,  in  1649,  to  assimilate  the  proceedings  of  tbe  Northampton 
assembly  with  those  of  the  common  council  of  tbe  city  of  London ; 
minutes  of  the  court  of  mayor  and  aldermen  for  1655,  1658,  1660, 

I  1663,  1667,  1675,  i6^8-9p  and  1690;  oaths  of  allegiance  in  1662; 
occasional  full  lists  of  the  *'  house  "  or  assembly :  an  inventory  of 
town  arms,  i66j;  a  list  of  the  town  trained  soldiers,  1669;  and 
findings  of  the  Vernall's  inquests  as  to  local  boundaries  between 
1664  and    1724. 

In  both  volumes,   the  writing  is  throughout   in  the    hands    of 

I       the   respective  town  clerks.     The  town    clerk,    or  common   clerk* 
was  invariably  also  the  clerk  of  the  court  of  record. 


^m 


8 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


Other  books  bring  down  the  orders  of  ihc  assembly  to  1835, 
without  any  admixture  of  other  information. 

The  regular  minutes  of  the  court  of  the  mayor  and  aidcrmeOi 
which  was  a  separate  court  from  the  larger  assembly,  do  not 
begin  till  1694.  ITic  first  book  of  thrsc  minutes  extends  from 
that  date  to  1771,  and  the  second  from  1771  to  1797.  There  is 
some  confusion  in  Mr.  Moore's  calendaring  between  the  minutes 
of  the  two  courts. 

An   interesting  volume  is  a  full  Elizabethan  terrier  of    alt  tlie< 
lands  and  posseaaions  of  the  corporation  both  in  town  and  county; 
it  is  full  of  detail,  and  of  the  year   1586. 

The  register  book  of  the  orders  of  the  commission  appointed 
by  act  of  parliament  to  regulate  the  rebuilding  of  Northampton 
after  the  great  6re  of  1675,  is  of  unique  legal  value,  and  of 
primary  local   importance. 

Folio  books  containmg  the  mayors'  accounts  and  the  cham- 
berlains' accounts  begin  in  1690,  and  with  but  few  gaps  continue 
consecutively  till   1835. 

The  books  containing  the  indentures  of  apprentices  and  the 
enrolment  of  freemen  begin,   respectively,  in  ij6i  and    1606. 

Among  the  detached  papers  are  small  bundles  of  separate 
mayors'  accounts  and  chamberlains'  accounts,  as  they  were  pre- 
sented to  the  assembly,  both  of  them  beginning  in  1676,  the 
year  after  the  great  fire;  toll  papers  from  1715  to  rSag;  acts  of 
the  corporation  from  1746  to  1835;  and  parliamentary  election 
returns,  beginning  in  1732. 

There  arc  also  a  large  number  of  copies  of  charters,  letters 
patent,  etc.,  from  the  Public  Record  Office,  relative  to  North- 
ampton, the  originals  of  which  are  not  among  the  town  records. 
They  arc  'office'  copies,  that  is  certified  to  be  correct,  and 
supplied  by  accredited  record  agents,  and  almost  all  of  them  f 
are  translated  as  well  as  given  in  the  original.  It  is  exceedingly 
unusual  to  find  such  transcripts  in  a  borough  muniment  room; 
and  it  need  not  be  supposed  that  the  unreformed  corporation  was 
at  any  time  seized  with  antiqtiari.in  or  historic  zeal,  so  as  to 
possess  themselves  of  these  valuable  accessories  to  their  own 
records  at  some  considerable  outlay.  The  pra<;aic  explanation  is 
that  these  extracts  from  Domesday  and  the  Pipe  Rolls,  and 
these  copies  of  early  royal  grants  of  murage,  pontage,  and  paviage 
to  the  town   of   Northampton    were,    one   and  all,  procured  about 


SECTION    TWO. 

Cnnc    Government    and    State. 

Tss  AflKVBLv — in  wnrm-iM.  caMucfm— Gnba  ouimb  or  1489— In  o»vo> 
wmmr  PMU«--Tn  iwcaii-KMni— Tn  Fittn-«i«n>— LmsovTasBWU  lUruiii 
or  TKS  ponr-nan'    nbm  to  kbts— H>.  PncsfAL's  omnoM  avd  Arrsu.  to 

Kne's  niTCB — Nnr  csakixs — Fulqhxs  to  maxm  a  gtNMnm — iKsxcouutrms  or 
nMANcx— RxpDBT    or    commtttwm.   axd   or   coMMUsioNns — Tbb    matoks    axd 

MATOtx'  ACOOOITTS COOKT  OT  ALDKUnS — BaiLIPTS— CbaMBBKLAIRS  AMD  CBAMBKB- 

LAIRS'    ACCODim TOWX     CLXMS    AMD    TOWX    ATTOKXCT — ThB    KACI  BtAUK  AMD 

aiUT  HACK — Thk  PoajK  snjXAim-AT-HAcx — Billhan  and  bkadlks — Hall 
XuTEK— Watts — Flac  bkaxxss— Ouss  or  ASWULr. 


CIVIC  GOVERNMENT  AND  STATE.  13 


THE    ASSEMBLY. 

T^HIS  is  not  the  place  in  which  to  attempt,  even  in  the  nsirfeBi 
form,  any  general  essay  upon  the    highly  tnterestiDg  sutmxr 
of  the  rise  and  fall  and   subsequent    revival  of   F-ng!i«;h  uumic^a! 
privil^es,  though  some  account  is  absolutely  necessarr  for  i  tun 
understanding  of  town  records.     It  may  be  well  just  10  podn:   wc 
that  the  best  students  of  our  national  history  seem   to  agret:  tia: 
a  remarkable  spirit  of  popular  liberty    ran   throughout   tbe    wodk 
government  of  most  of  our  great  English  towns  during  the  twdfti 
and  thirteenth  centuries.     Particularly  is  this  noticeable   ic  vsmrat 
on    royal    demesnes,  of    which   Northampton   was    a    caaapKxiaai 
example.    The  oxnparative  equality   and  fraternity   of  t^  umn 
burgesses,   under  the  widest  democratic  rule,  began  notiiieai>r    a. 
wane,  though  more  slowly  in  some  places  than  in  otbtrri: .  tumaot. 
the    close    of    tbe    thirteenth    and    beginning    of    tbe    ioiing-ja: 
centuries.     From  that  time  onwards,  the  passage  frosD  ocmws^c 
to  oligarchy  set  in  with  a   steady   flow,   and   was   not  stitv?'.    uf^ 
the    Corporation    R^^r'orm    Act  of    1S35. 

In  even-  ose   cf    o-r    great   towns,   whos*-     iu-jt     i-r.-r-.      -- 
extant,    it    is    ~  :•=:    remarkable    and    signiHotn*.    ic    no--    ;.  j      1  ^ 
change  from  a  ■»"ii^  inc  generous  trust  in  tiit  '.-oiituiuiii-. 
selfish  rule  of  a  rjLrr^Tr  and  corrupt  oligarchy  v  a.  j:r«i'_;«i.  ,;- 

often  unintenii:ci_~  accomplished.     Non-hampij:   ainrr*.         — -.   — 
example  of  'J-n   trri.;iai  corruption   of  &   uoiiir    lirri. 

One  of  ib^   i.^-frL.   fascinating  poinih    11    ■.^1:^1—..-      »■        

study   of   Eo£'!isi    n^riiiripal    life    is   tba*.    w.    iv       -jri       -^ 
the  royal    d^rni-^sir^     :.^    exactly   the    ■s^v^r.    ;■-;      -,      ~-r      ,    ^  _ 
ment,     .As   the  ^s-'ii^  and  wider  idea  'y   v^v-ii-    it-.-,-  .^ 
became   unwortai'rt    rjjtn    a   variety    er    r-=ii3-j:,      --.f^^.  -j-       ^■-.  .^ 
to  exhaust    iti-^t'    n    inding   a   great    c::-t-=:-  -* 

the  idea  of   ^-ni-x—su:.    zoverr-tneir    t-iz.-'     >-    ^-■=--r      ^    . 
substance    w'ai    prr«i:7n:-*— 7    ii-s:       ..,-    .      ..^     ^.^ —  :.  , 

independence  tbt:;  "ii^e    iiirre"::^     ;i«r,    vj     -k     -  ..j.._     -        ^ 
or  had  obtainec   zz-j^    '.^^    -Ti:,— :-     -«i.r:     -.^     -c--,  ._      -     - 
"■'licii  they  stro-v*:    -_:.   sir~ni3=it  '.zi^r    jr-    -^^  ^.     ^      ^,  - 


H 


NORTHAMI'TON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


The  student  of  comparative  municipal  self  government  will 
find  that,  in  a  variety  of  ways,  the  different  changes  and  eventual 
development  of  civic  control  in  Northampton  may  be  compared 
u-ith  great  towns  such  Sls  London  and  Noru'ich ;  or  with  important 
boroughs  such  as  Yarmouth,  Colchester,  Worcester,  or  Leicester; 
and  in  some  respects  with  Coventry  and  Nottingham.  In  almost 
each  of  these  towns  it  came  about  that,  by  the  end  of  the  fifteenth 
century,  a  common  council  of  forty-eight  members  was  elected  to 
supersede  the  general  assembly. 

The  primitive  (orni  of  munkipal  institutions  amongst  us,  after 
the  Normans  had  firmly  established  themselves  in  *hc  land,  can 
be  readily  grasped.  It  forms  an  interesting  admixture  of  Engliiib 
and  Norman  customs.  The  old  portreeve  or  head  man  of  the 
borough  had  become,  in  the  later  Anglo-Saxon  times,  little  more 
than  Lbc  servant  of  the  king.  The  ancient  liberties  of  the  English 
were  not  uniatelUgibie  to  the  more  educated  townsmen  from 
JJormandy.  In  Germany,  Flanders,  Italy,  and  Provence,  con- 
siderable struggles  of  the  municipalities  towards  greater  freedom 
were  then  in  progress.  'J'he  amalgamated  populations  of  our 
Anglo-Norman  towns  were  readily  moved  in  a  like  direction. 
They  desired,  and  obtained  tlie  power  to  elect,  on  the  widest 
possible  franchise,  their  own  chief  officer. 

This  freedom  of  annual  election  of  a  reeve  of  their  choice 
was  completely  granted  to  Northampton  by  Richard's  charter  <rf 
1189,  and  confirmed  by  that  of  John  in  1200.  'I'lie  last  of  these 
charters  associated  with  the  reeve  two  baililfs  and  four  coroners, 
the  whole  seven  being  popularly  elected  year  by  year.  Henry 
III.  cliarter  of  1227  in  practically  a  repetition  of  that  of  1200;  but 
by  the  time  that  king  granted  letters  patent  to  the  town  in 
1252,  an  important  change  in  nomenclature  had  been  adopted  by 
the  burgesses,  apparently  without  any  express  sanction.  The 
annually  chosen  bead  man  of  the  borough  wa:}  then  called  mayor 
and  not  reeve.  Here  and  there  throughout  England  this  change  was 
coming  about;  the  Knglish  reeve  bad  so  long  been  associated 
with  kingly  choice  and  exaction,  that  those  possessed  of  far 
greater  freedom,  sought  after  a  new  title,  and  found  it  in  the 
Norman  mayor.  It  v/as  only  the  towns  of  high  importance,  and 
exceptional  liberties^,  that  ubout  this  period  took  this  step,  or 
bad  it  granted  tbcm.  London  and  York  chose  a  mayor  in  the 
end  of  Richard's  days,    Kings    Lynn   in    1204,    Bristol   in    1217, 


I 


CIVIC  GOVERNMENT   AND  STATE. 


'5 


Oniotd  in  1229,  Chester  in  1247,  and  Leicester  in  1251.  The  title 
was  soon  tiought  alter  by  the  older  aiid  more  influential  boroughs ; 
but  it  was  not  till  the  time  of  Elizabeth,  or  even  James  1.,  that  the 
title  of  mayor  was  given  to  the  chief  olHccr  of  the  majority  of  Bnglitih 
bcKOughs.  At  N'orihampton,  the  change  of  nomenclature  took 
pUce  between  1227  and  1352  ;  at  the  latter  date  it  was  cerliiinly 
a  well  established  fact. 

The  whole  community,  or  commonalty,  of  the  town  was 
expected  to  take  part  in  the  election  of  reeve  or  mayor,  and 
where  those  officers  existed,  of  the  bailiffs  and  coroners.  The 
expression  '  general  assembly.'  was  of  the  widest  possible  signifi- 
cation. Fines  were  enforced  upon  burgesses  who  were  absent 
from  the  general  assembly,  when  duly  summoned  by  bell,  bom, 
!■>  proclamation.  Powers  existed,  and  were  even  some  times 
(Hforced,  id  closing  shops  and  work  rooms  during  the  lime  of 
the  assembly,  in  order  that  it  might  be  manifest  that  the  claims 
of  public  business  were  superior  to  private  interests.  The  original 
idea  of  our  Anglo-Norman  town  assemblies  was  on  a  more  com- 
prehensive scale  than  even  that  of  the  village  manor  courts,  where 
all  tenants  wcr«  expected  to  muster,  under  a  penally.  Every  male 
of  working  age,  was  expected  to  be  present  at  the  town  assembly. 
At  Sandwich,  for  instance,  on  the  tirst  .Monday  in  December,  the 
to<ra  Serjeant  sounded  the  cuuunon  horn  for  a  general  assembly, 
and  made  the  following  crj'  at  the  fourteen  accustomed  places: — 
"  Every  mm  of  twelve  years  or  more,  go  to  St.  Clement's  church , 
"  there  our  commonalty  hath  need.    Haste,  haste." 

The  reeve  or  mayor  naturally  required  advice  and  counsel  in 
the  multilarious  questions  submitted  to  his  discussion,  even  where, 
as  at  Northatnptoa,  be  was  relieved  of  some  of  his  duties  by 
popularly  appointed  bailiffs  and  coroners.  Ere  long,  he  found  on 
hts  appointmeol,  a  gradually  increasing  small  body  of  men,  who 
hid  served  the  like  ofSce,  and  who  were  termed  liis  "brethren" 

4**  co-brcthrcn,"  or  more  usually  by  the    Anglo-Saxon    term  of 
enneii.     In  certain  case*  the  number    of    these  brethren    was 
limited  to    twelve,  in    other    cases    the    number    was    undefined; 
^hBsC  in  some    boroughs,  only  those  who  were   choeeo   by  the 

Mmmooalty  could  act  as  the   mayor's  advisers. 
^_  So  far  as  Northampton  is  cotKemed,  there  can   be   no  doubt 
^Pu.    fro>m  about    1300,  wbeo    the  town    was  enlarged   and    St. 
^^ks    incladed    in    the  ,n«w    walls,    the    c^Uoqium  gener&ie    or 


i6 


NOftnuuntm  bokough  records 


^^'tfrtg0ti$  of  t}K  tcnmssKA  (m  Englisfa  the  general  as^enUf 
of  Ui£  ccnuDotaltri.  was  ssmmoned  from  time  to  lime,  for  ncarif 
two  centuries,  to  boM  ks  ■mlitif  in  tbc  body  of  that  Urge 
cburcli.  This  WA»  not  done  because,  as  has  been  alleged,  there 
was  no  town  hall,  or  guild  \aX\.  For  the  guildhall  that  stood  at 
the  south  cast  cornet  of  tbc  mai^  sqiiaiv.  was  there  50D0  after 
1300,  but  becaose  tbc  great  sue  of  St.  Giles'  would  admit  of  the 
proeacc  ol  a  coasidcnblc  body  of  the  townstnm,  vrho  could  not 
possibtjr  have  assembled  va  the  damber  or  hall,  where  the  tnaifor 
ftnd  hb  brrtlirea  aod  the  more  sded  burgesses  H-ere  wont  to 
take  counsel. 

Previous  to  1300,  the  old  lows  hall,  a  small  buBdtng,  stood 
between  the  castle  and  the  then  martfct  square,  which  partly 
carre^xMMled  to  the  present  Marebold.  In  the  Aiiglo-Nonnan 
town,  the  assembly  was  paisablf  held  in  tbe  open,  in  the  m»rket  place 
or  chequer.  Here  it  may  be  remaiiedthai  the  spelling  "  Mayorhold  " 
is  comparatively  modem  and  wrong.  In  Eltiabethan  A^yt*.  il  ti 
several  limes  spelt  "  MarehokL"  when,  to  dose  juxuposition, 
occurs  the  word  "  maior "  for  the  diief  magistrate.  In  the  dayi 
when  entire  horses  were  the  rule,  and  geldings  quite  the  exccpUoa, 
tbe  separation  ol  tbe  horse<:  and  marcs  was  a  necessity  at  most 
of  the  fairs.  Hence  in  Northampton,  tbe  horses  uere  in  tite  open 
Horsentarket,  and  tbe  mares  safely  secured  in  the  Marchold. 
Marcfair,  as  the  continuatioo  of  Gold  Street  L*^  a  street  name  of 
later    origin ;    it    used  generally  to  be  called  West   Street. 

The  general  assembly,  intended  originally  to  be  frequently 
summoned,  gradoallY  gaw  way  to  a  owre  select  court,  At 
Ntxthampton,  up  to  14S9.  the  assembly  was  always  called  together 
(or  choice  of  a  mayor,  as  well  as  for  the  enacting  of  special 
business. 

In  the  time  of  Edwird  111.,  Nonhanptoa's  assembly  b 
described  as  consisting  of  the  mayor,  the  coroners,  twelve  bur- 
gcsMs,  and  the  commonalty.  During  the  reigns  of  Richard  11^ 
Hcorj-  IV.,  Henrj-  VI ,  and  Edward  IV..  a  priry  council  of  twenty- 
four  was  the  distinguishii^  feature;  tl»  assembly  being  styled 
tbe  mayor,  the  twenty-four  burges*es.  and  the  whole  community ; 
or  the  mayor,  tbe  twenty-four  co-burgesses,  and  all  the  coaw 
mooalty-  Right  through  these  reigns,  the  presence  of  tbe 
coBUBunity  was  necessary  at  Northampton  for  the  passing  of  any 
new  byc-lawD.  or  sanctioning  any  trade  constitutions. 


CIVIC    GOVERNMENT    AND    STATE. 


17 


narrowiiie    down    of    thr     privilrgrs    of    the    community 

ImoM    to    vanishing     point,    was    accomplished     in     %'cry    many 

iroughs  in  the  last  half  of  the  fifteenth  rentury,  by  substituting 

5uppo»cd  rpprescotatives  (or  all  ihc  romoionatty.    In  most  of  these 

boroughs    the    change     was    aecomplisheil     by    the    overweening 

jwcr  of  the  ureal  burgesses,  and  particulariy  by  the  grrjit  trade 

lUda,  which,  as  ire    shall    presently    aee,  oever   overawed   the 

dl  at   ^fa^thampton. 

Northampton,  in  conjunction  with  the  neighbouring  town  of 

ritoster.  this  meoionible  change,  whereby  the  voice  of  the  town 

at    Urge    was  practically   silenced  for  cliree  and    a   half  centuries, 

dmc  about  ihmugh  the  direct  action  of  the  nation's  parliament. 

I     There  was,  apparently,  at  Northampton,  sufficient  sturdy  indepen- 

^Bence  to  jeopardise    the    possibility    of    effecting    so    slanting    a 

^^Biaiigc  through  the  town's  parliament. 

^V  TTie  interesting  act  of  Parliament  of  1489  has  been  printed  in 
full  in  the  first  volume.  The  preamble  attempts  to  justify  this 
r  riiry  measure,  by  reciting  the  great  divisions,  diiscords  and 

ij'.  of  the  popular  assemblies,  and  the  act  proceeds  to  substitute 

the  commonalty,  forty-eight  of  the  most  discreet  and  best  dis- 

lownsmen.     The  selection  of  the  forty-eight  was,  however, 

ft    entirety  at  the  disposal   of  the  mayor  and  past  mayors,  and 

5-  were  to  hold  office   for  life.    Tlie  choice  of  the  new  mayor 

nd  most  of  the  general   government  of  the  town  was  to  be  left 

ihc  hands  of  the<ie  foriy-eight.  in  association  with  the   mayor 

_and  ex-mayors,  and  the  b-iiliffs  and  ex-bailiff3.     The  only  restric- 

iD  the  choice  of  the  forty-eight  was  that  they  were  not  to 

chosen  from   pn^t  mayors  or  bailiffs.     Thus  disappeared,  save 

uame,  tlic  town'-,  general  assembly. 

In   150),    Nortliaraptoa's  assembly  is  described  as  consisting  of 

mayor,    late  mayors,    bailiffs,    and    twenty-four    co-burgcsscs, 

id   the  t'— ■■  '■'■L'lit.     The  old   privy  council  of   the   twenty-four 

laatly  red  in  favour  of  the  forty  eight  common  council 

Probably,  in  thi»  instance,  the  phrase  "twenty-four"  implied 

late   bailiffs  and  all  those  that  had  been   bailiffs.     It  is  rather 

itriouh  lo  note  tlut,  when  we   come  to  the  time  of  preservation 

of  full  list*  of  "Uie    house"  or  assembly,   it  is   found  that  the 

or   .'kldermen  averaged  about  twelve,  and    the  bailiffs 

...    ,  ,\  _j.ilifT»  about  twenty  lour. 

From   the  time  of  Philip  and  Mar)'<  we   know    that    it    was 

C 


|8 


NOKTMAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


customary  to  call  over  the  roll  of  the  assembly  on  the  first 
meeting  after  Michaelmas,  and  to  take  down  the  names  in  writing. 
Apparently,  the  calling  of  the  roll  was  not  infrequently  resorted 
to  on  other  occasions^  particularly  when  there  was  any  doubt 
at(  to  a  quorum  being  present,  a  clear  majority  of  the  whale 
house  being  necessary  for  any  local  legislation.  It  is  not, 
however,  till  r674  that  "a  list  of  the  house"  is  met  with  in  the 
book  of  orders.  A  full  list  of  the  assembly  on  October  2ndj  of  that 
year  h  extant,  from  which  we  fuid  that  the  house  then  consisted 
of  thirteen  aldermen  (including  the  mayor),  twenty  six  baiUfTs, 
and  fifty-four  forty-eight  men  or  burgesses.  By  the  side,  however. 
of  six  of  the  burgesses'  names,  marginal  disqualifications  are  written, 
tlius  reducing  them  to  the  right  number.  Against  three  the 
one  word  "oulcd  "  is  written,  against  another  "  outed  for  basterdy," 
against  a  fifth  "  gone,"  and  against  a  sixth  "  by  reason  of  his 
sickness  excused." 

The  next  list  of  the  house  is  one  drawn  up  on  March  25th, 
1720,  when  there  were  thirteen  aldermen,  in  addition  to  the  mayor, 
thirty  one  bailiffs,   and  forty    seven  burgesses. 

Lists  are  also  given  in  full  for  the  years  17:22,  1724,  1729^ 
1732,  and  1740.  The  list  for  1743  marks  those  who  were  absent 
on  October  2nd;  there  were  sixteen  aldermen,  of  whom  two  were 
absent ;  twenty  seven  bailiffs,  of  whom  six  were  sbsent ;  and 
forty  eight  burgesses,  of  whom  nine  were  absent.  The  house, 
then,  on  that  occasion  consisted  of   seventy    five  members. 

A  printed  list  of  the  full  house  or  corporation  first  occurs 
under  date  April  30th,  1773.  The  house  was  then  composed  of 
mayor,  nineteen  aldermen,  and  twenty-six  bailiffs,  and  the  forty- 
eight  burgesses ;  a  total  of  forty  nine  were  present.  In  the  Ust 
of  1776,  there  were  twenty-three  aldermen  and  twenty-four  bailiffs, 
but  only  twenty-eight  of  the  forty-eight  burgesses.  In  several 
other  lists  of  subsequent  years  the  roll  of  the  forty-eight  was 
by  no   means  complete. 

In  connection  with  this  mention  of  printed  lists,  it  may  here 
be  noted  that  printed  summonses  to  the  assembly  were  used  in. 
1813,  whilst  the  first  printed  agenda  for  public  business  that  we 
have  met  with  is  dated  October  25th,  1811. 

We  now  come  to  definite  standing  ground.  The  official 
records  of  the  town,  the  orders  of  assembly,  begin  in  the  last 
year  of   Edward  VI.     In    1553,    the    Northampton    assembly    con- 


CIVIC    GOVERNMENT    AND    STATE.  19 

sisted  of  the  mayor,  his  brethren,  twenty-four  comburgesses,  and 
the  forty-eight.  This  comprehensive  title  of  the  assembly  continued 
with  but  slight  change  of  phraseology,  up  till  October  24th, 
1595,  when  the  last  entry  of  the  twenty-four  comburgesses  occurs, 
to  be  immediately  succeeded  on  November  14th,  of  the  same  year, 
by  the  phrase,   "the  bailiffs  and  those  that  have  been  bailiffs." 

Northampton  had  its  annually  appointed  two  bailiffs,  as  well 
as  mayor;  and  the  mayors  were,  according  to  usage,  almost 
invariably  chosen  from  the  ex-baitiffs.  It  seems  reasonable  to 
suppose  that  the  twenty-four  comburgesses  were  either  a  selected 
number  of  the  ex-bailiffs,  made  up  from  other  sources  when  the 
past  bailiffs  did  not  reach  that  number,  or  else  that  the  phrase 
lingered  when  the  actual  number  was  forgotten.  The  latter 
supposition  is  perhaps  the  most  probable.  From  1595  to  1836, 
the  past  bailiffs  remained  a  distinct  body,  wearing  special  gowns, 
and  occasionally  sitting  with  the  mayor  and  aldermen  when  the 
forty-eight  burgesses  were  not    summoned,  or  were  meeting  apart. 

The  full  title  given  to  the  assembly  in  1628  is,  the  "assembly 
of  mayor,  aldermen  his  brethren,  the  bailiffs  and  all  those  that 
have  been  bailiffs,  and  the  forty-eight  burgesses  of  the  Common 
Council." 

In  the  somewhat  troublous  and  unsettled  times  towards  the 
close  of  the  reign  of  Queen  Mary,  the  assembly  passed  a  verbose 
and  curious  order,  dated  November  12th  1557,  imposing  fines 
u|x>n  any  who  should  use  slanderous  words  with  regard  to  the 
mayor,  or  his  brethren,  or  any  of  the  twenty-four  comburgesses. 
It  is  an  elaboration  of  the  order  of  1490  {Liber  Cusiumarum), 
and  runs  as  follows  : — 

Synce  that  moche  unfithing  langage  seditious  wotdes  misrule  anil  ungodlie 
govcfnaunce  hathe  of  longe  time  Reigned  in  the  baroughe  &  towne  of  Northamp- 
ton amonge  the  inhabitants  there  &  dwellers  of  the  same,  For  a  perpetual!  peace 
Reformation  &  better  order  to  be  had  theryn,  We  have  consideryd  First  and 
principally  that  yt  pleasethe  god,  yt  establishithe  perfect  Reformation  &  tranquylite, 
jt  norryshithe  &  encreasithe  love  and  charite  among  us,  The  universall  wele  alwey 
enhaansynge  and  floryshynge,  yt  causythe  plentye  Sc  abundaunce,  and  lawes  to 
have  ther  due  courses,  Justice  to  be  indifferently  mynistrede  &  executed,  wheras  by 
the  coDtrarye  way  and  use  thereof  ensuethe  commotions  striffes  &  debates,  povertie 
myserye  tt  many  other  incoDvenlences,  The  peryll  and  daunger  whereof  must  of 
Reason  be  erected  &  leyde  to  the  charge  off  those  persones  having  Rule  &  authorite 
where  any  misgovernaunce  be  used  &  frequented,  Therfor  be  yt  establyshed  & 
provydede  alwey  that  from  thys  time  forwarde  no  manner  of  person  or  persones 
what  estate,  degree,  or  conditions  oever  he  be,  beingc  here  franchised  Ie  sworne  to 

C  3 


2D 


NORTHAMPTON    UOKOUGH    RF.CORDS- 


ye  liberties,  rreedoms  &  U5a{«(  q£  iIiu  Wwbb  Wore  the  tiu)roT  lot  the  time  ^*:ltl 
that  haib«  or  «hall  speak  ot  itpred  ■brud*  in  an^  manner  tit  wbe  aitf  Mslii 
vile  or  n»lictoiuc  Ungagc  at  ulc*  of  or  by  the  nuiui  or  bj-  any  (jf  ikam 
liMhc  ben  nuiora  or  by  any  othcfi  of  the  ncillj  comburgMMT*  of  thit  town^  M 
■Undcfytijce  htutinge  or  upenlng  ttier  {ood  lumo  &  fame  in  anj  maaixr 
unciuitthc,  ami  thai  it  proved  by  luflicient  wilnu  beforethemaipr mcl  hi*,  coitit* 
for  the  tiin«  brin^,  That  thvfl  that  pcma  or  penonei  that  >0  nohythe  ftUundctttl 
or  defameth  any  of  than  above  nhened,  &  therctn  be  founilc  defective  Jk 
(U  y*  3fomeid«,  shall  pay  to  tbr  maior  for  the  time  bcing«  to  the  ii»e  el  ptia 
towne  so  lo  be  k«pt  as  common  trmurv  of  the  Tovrne  u*  yf  that  he  br  of  abilH 
&  power  to  pay  the  scidc  k«*  And  if  the  saide  penon  oc  pusoni  be  irat  able 
ort  powen  to  pay  xt'  that  then  b«  or  th*y  nmijne  in  prison  sx'H  day»  tur 
tlitcrelion  of  ye  nixiar  &  hit  couasell. 

At  tht:  samr  assembly  a  strict  order  was  passed  as  to  the  s.ccrecyj 
to  Ix;  observed  by  menibcrs  of  the  inner  council,  aa  well  as  ajiotl 
bye-law  regulating  the  weekly  meeting  of  the  mayor'icotjrt.     In 
tatter  case  tlie  (erm    "CommotKr "    evidently   means  one  of 
forty -eight. 

[t<in  yt  i(  ordoynyd  that  if  any  ol  the  sxilij^  Combmgmsft  or  any  oiker 
swotneu  <ntll  to  the  Couocell  ot  the  nwlot  a>  lo  Uie  Mcret  Couiicell  olf  the  •■»' 
of  Nonhampton  do  declare  6  ahowo  any  msiin«r  of  ihinf;  or  cause  rotnraucyd 
(alkyvl,  &  so  comnuondod  by  the  mayoc  to  be  kept  aecict  tofctber  In  KCtrt  c4ub 
■ny  time.  &  being  provyd  before  the  Maior  &  hys  Couiuell,  tbe  said  penon 
fuiy  Ihr  fint  lyme  to  the  Ma  fot  &  to  the  um  bectorewyd    xx\  th«  m«o)m1 
xl*  It  to  be  expulied  It  pw  owt  of  Ihc  laidc  ConnsrJI  at  the  diacrctian  of  the 
&  hLi  brethcra. 

Itrin  thM  the  maior  evety  Monday  shall  have  anistaunce  at  th*  Conn  off  lllj  ti  | 
brrthetn  that  have  been  maiort  &  vj  hayly*  and  (hen  to  have  no  other  in  theii  swde*' 
■ft«  any  vochn  ftummonft  w  pvon,  o»«fy  one  that  have  beo  nuior  It  maldihe  del»iill_ 
dull  pay  lo  the  pore  t>o>e  vj*.  St  every  ooe  iliat  hatbe  bea  bayly  tor  Uke  defaeh 
pay  to  the  Mme  boxe  tiij',  totkn*  igvotiena. 

AIm  thai  ev«ry  Comraoiwi  that  is  lunnotwd  lo  atrve  the  Court  «ir«ry  Mc 
■poD  hisor  their  l-iwfull  lumtnons  by  the  nfScers  ol  ha  qnarten  Bt  do  maior 
shall  pay  ■iij'  hnlfe  l«  th«  bailyi  halfe  to  the  pof*  B>an*(  boxe. 

Tlie  following  useful  standing  order  foe  preserving  due  decorum . 
their  itcbatc  was  agreed  to  by  that  assembly  on  April  1 1  th,  1642  i- 

Thai  whor«»«*n'  of  thi>  ^  H.tll  com*  out  of  iWr  pUen  or  trom  off 

■nCi  morr  than  »n«  by  aoe  i  ,  "-n  aiua  DCcanon  shall  [orfnit  xi]*  10  the  v 

(kit  CoriHXalton,  and  that  nhoesocver  ol  the  sAid  AMcmUto  shall  at  any  litne 
anlc  ooyM  whiles  ooe  u  In  «pcakeU{e  shall  forfnt  atao  xij'  to  the  om  af  oreuld  to  I 
Irvyed  hf  dtXrewB  or  IinpriWBraent  of  llw  OSendcr  liQ  be  payetk  Xk  ilie 
Hurttinn 


*  Oitc*"*"*   ■'*>  >™'  ■*•  ■  **  trtimti  «al  >a  > 

I  Tta  oBintMf  ul  tef  t  u  alM  arMct  w  laUr 


~'  ■•:    OCViRSMENT    AND    STATE.  ^I 

-~  ■=^  r  ^»  as  —AjK  of  the  second  volume  of  the  great  order 
*''^**^  -  ^  ^=^  =i^r  id-iriiiie  Febnian-  ijth.  164a.  whereby  the 
-ATr^tmijz  TTTmrr?^;  t^scit-  thi:  the  common  council  ot  the  town 
°^  ^:J*=^=nn:  roii-l  :«  g:— 30-^-.  ar.d  regulated  according  to  the 
■^^-  s  --TT  ::  .^iins<tl  =aoi  :ha:  vear  by  parliament  tor  London. 
^^  -*"  -=  "SiT-ir:?  re  rci±  sices  co  erieavcur  to  adjuft  their 
cjs-=^r^  n-  ;.L.i:-:3  ^^  s^.f  -.h*;  it^^r.c  this  comminee  a-id  act 
*^^"  '-^7  -  us  -^;»:L■;-^;c  :-  ::H-«:?c  bv  a  irar.jcript  of  the  Act 
**"  -•^■^^^-=^  ~~.iz^-t  zz  iit?  Lccicr.  cc— =:oc  co.;r.ciI,  the  chief 
Jj-'-  i^Lus-  J  T  i_d  ir^.  --.s-  th^  .,;-£  — jvcr  wa*  :o  5umir.on  the 
cr.m=;   ji  ^i^    T-rnz=L  r^::  -isni-cc  ;c    ir.T  :e=  =:e=::i>er¥ :    that   the 


■he  prev:;._i    v-i-ir     :r_e 
'0  tak't  the    .:-i.-.h      =-r_z. 


ftiur:  01  aldermen     tj^i^-     =.^    ;^-.t-    :_-■.. T;::Lr     : .  ■  .:  r  ■ 

ab^cni  from  his   =.;--C-i>   ■_-=:.:'-     .1..^    :■■_.-:■:-..■    1     :_     -.-,--      •-     :. 


32 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


the  Bne  of  £10  rather  than  ^erve  on  the  (ony -eight,  he  should  be 
excused  in  the  future  from  serving  in  that  office, 

Mr.  John  Ives,  apothecary,  was  elected  one  of  the  forty-elg'ht  in 
1704,  but  on  being  summoned  to  be  sworn,  he  pleaded  t)iat  bis  serving 
would  be  a  great  prejudice  and  detriment  to  him  in  his  trade  or 
profession,  having  occasion  to  be  much  absent  from  his  shop  upon 
his  business.  He  expressed  himself  as  willinj;  to  submit  to  a  fine 
rather  than  serve.  The  case  was  brought  before  the  mayor  and 
aldermen,  and  they  decided  that  upon  paying  £10  for  the  use  of  the 
corporation,  Mr.  Ives  should  be  excused  from  serving  as  a  burgess 
(or  the  future  ;  but  thai  if  he  should  be  again  elected  and  witling  to 
aer\'e,  that  then  the  ,(|io  should  be  refunded  by  ihe  chamberlains. 

A  like  order  was  made  by  the  same  court  in  1706  in  regard 
to  one  Zcchariah  Herbert,  who  was  also  an  apothecary. 

In  1716  the  aldcniicji  turned  out  two  members  of  the  forty 
eight  "  for  their  Indecent  and  unmanly  behaviour  at  Assemblys." 

iuiward  Lee  was  removed  in  1719  for  keeping  "  a  disordered 
alehouse." 

In  1741  two  members  of  the  forty-eight  were  removed  from 
ofBcc  because  they  were  prisoners  for  debt. 

Ibis  right  of  expulsion,  the  aldermen  again  exercised  on  July 
15th,  1743,  after  a  wholesale  fashion,  when  they  removed  and 
displaced  from  their  several  ofGccs  five  aldermen,  six  bailiffs,  and 
four  of  the  forty-eight,  for  neglecting  from  time  to  time  to  appear  at 
hall  and  assembly,  though  duly  summoned.  However,  by  another 
vote  of  the  sa.ine  court,  held  August  8th,  six  of  these  defaulters 
were  restored  to  their  former  places  in  the  corporation. 

The  non-altendance  o(  the  forty-eight  and  their  refusal  to 
qualify  when  elected  began  now  to  be  a  chronic  complaint  in  the 
town.  The  aldermen  upbraided  the  burgesses  with  lack  of  energy 
for  the  public  weal,  whereupon  the  burgesses,  with  not  a  little  truth, 
retorted  that  the  aldermen  had  so  manipulated  the  choice  of  the 
forty-eight  that  the  supposed  representatives  of  the  commonalty 
had  practically  no  power,  and  Ihat  they  declined  to  be  mere  pawns. 
The  evil  grew  to  such  a  pitch,  in  the  course  of  the  next  fifty  years, 
thai  the  aldermen  could  hardly  ever  succeed  in  keeping  up  the 
forty-eight,  even  nominally,  at  anything  like  its  full  strength. 

At  last,  in  1791,  the  mayor  and  aldermen  resolved  to  take 
courtsH's  opinion  on  the  subject,  and  a  case  was  submitted  to 
their  deputy  recorder,  Mr.  Spencer  Perceval,  by   the  town   clerk. 


CIVIC    GOVERNMENT    AND    STATB. 


33 


» 


The  clauses  of  the  lown  charter  of  15th  Charles  II.,  relative 
to  the  company  of  forty-eight,  were  recited,  which  provide  that 
they  shall  be  "  honest  and  discreet  men  dwelling  and  abiding 
within  the  town  which  have  never  been  mayors  or  bailiffs " ; 
that  in  conjunction  with  the  mayor  and  ex-mayor,  the  two  bailiffs, 
vid  the  cx-baili(fs,  they  shall  be  called  the  common  council ;  that 
all  bye-laws  and  rules  arc  to  be  passed  by  a  majority  of  the 
whole  common  council :  that  the  mayor  and  aldermen  are  to  BU 
up  alt  vacancies  that  may  occur  in  the  company  of  the  forty 
eight  by  a  majority  of  their  votes;  that  any  freeman  or  burgess 
duly  elected  and  refusing  to  serve  could  be  fined  by  the 
mayor  and  alderman ;  and  that  if  the  defaulter  did  not  pay 
the  fine  be  could  be  cast  into  prison,  or  a  distress  levied  on 
his  goodd. 

It  was  further  stated,  as  a  part  of  the  case,  that  at  that 
time  the  corporation  consisted  of  a  mayor,  eighteen  aldermen, 
two  bailiffs,  twenty  two  other  bailiffs  who  had  served  that 
office,  and  nineteen  qualified,  and  twenty  nine  duly  elected 
but  not  qualified  forty-eight  men ;  and  that  the  twenty  nine, 
though  resident  freemen,  absolutely  refused  to  appear,  or  to  take 
office. 

The  two  queries  submitted  to  Mr.  Perceval  were — Is  it 
advisable  for  the  corporation  to  proceed  by  the  above  (charter) 
or  any  other  means  to  set  a  fine  upon  the  forty-eight  men  for 
refusing  to  serve  ?  And  if  advisable,  should  they  be  lined 
annually   or  more  than  once  for  such    refusal  ? 

Mr.  Perceval  replied  that  the  mayor  and  aldennen  had  power 

to  hne  the  defaulters  to  a  reasonable  amount ;  thai  if  the  payment 

was  refused,    it  might  be  recovered  by  action  for  debt,   as    the 

charter  methods  were  probably   illegal,   and  clashed   with    statute 

law :  that   he  strongly   recommended   that  they  should  in  the    first 

instance  appeal  to   King's  Bench  for  a  mandamus  to  compel  the 

persons  elected  to  accept  office,  for  such    a  procedure  could  be 

begun  at  once;  and,  even  if  refused,  the  judges  would  then  state 

what    legal  course  the  corporation   ought  to  take,     Mr.    Perceval 

further   advised    that    a    fresh    summons    to    attend    and    qualify 

should  be  5^ervcd  on  the  defaulters,    with    an    intimation   that  if 

they    still    refused,  application    would     be    made    to    the    King's 

Bench;  but  at  the  same  time  he   strenuously  urged  the  corporation 

to  consider,  whether,  for    the  sake  of   the   peace  and   harmony  of 


I& 


34 


NOFTHAMPTOS    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


the    whole   lown,  they  could   sot  try  and  secure  other    persons 
who  would  willii^ly  accept  office,  and  have  new  elections. 

Mr.  Jeyes,  llie  town  clerk,  endorsed  the  "case"  with  the 
U'ordK,  "  Mr.  P.  refused  to  Lake  his  Fee  of  3  Guineas  witich  I 
offered   him." 

It  is  to  the  credit  of  the  aldermen  that  they  took  Mr.  Perccv^'s 
advice,  and  sought  out  others  to  accept  the  office.  Several  of 
these,  however,  remained  obstinate,  and  eventually  three  defaulters 
bad  a  maniiamus  £er\'ed  on  them.  The  case  was  argued  at 
length,  and  the  curious  resuh  that  ensued,  making  .t  new  charier 
a  necessity,  had  belter  be  narrated  in  the  contemporary  Wi 
of  Mr.   Hall's  MS.:— 

'?9*- 

Tkk«  yt»t  warn  mcmimiblc  tnnuactiao*  occurred,  wtridi    to   |^ve  Muns  accanat 

o(   i[  will  be  accesnrr  to  rccui  to   wbal   hail  taken  plac«   v«me   time    prior  to  xVa. 

Tb«  corpuniloa  had  (or  Mime  yean  CDr)lent«<l  Ch«m»elves  wilt)  KiimmonlRg  tvwial 

pCTSoiM  annuAlly  10  lake  Ihe  pflBcc  of  common  council  men,  wfao  coartaiitljr  refoael 

it,  and  it  wb«  done  m>  loaj;  smA  to  titat  degrae,  ibat  tke  forty  ^Igbl  common  council 

were  reduced  to  sbout  niDcteen.     It  tut  been  attcgcd  this  was  done  ihM  ibe  upper 

bouac,  i.e.,  tbe  vaayot,  aldtmMOi  axiA  batlJIF*  should  have  a  mtjotTtr  -,  be  that  a»  it 

nuy,  ihwj  «*eti  so  r»d«c«d.     But  abeat  tbe  ^ear  1791  th«^    allemJ    thai  plan,  and 

lammoncd  a  coniidcrable  ntunber  of  Btbers,  man  ol  wboni  complied  and  toolc  tW 

oatlu.    Tliosc   tlul    cefuKd,  namely,  Satnuet    Hugbes,  John    Ki{)ill«]r.  artd    Robert 

Becton  had  a  niandamut  lerved  o«i  ibem.  and  thv  r^s*  vm   argued   f»veral    linw) 

in  tko  court    u(,  King's    Bench.    The  rcautt  wai,  lu    it  appeared,    ibu   thougfa  u 

frevRien  they  were  bound  lo  lecve   a«   common  coundl    men.  j>ec    ihej'    contended 

Ibejr  were  not  dulji  elected,  upon  the  ground  vf  an  aa  of  parUamei*  paiKd  U  ita 

rei^n  of  Henrj  VII.,  whirb  eoitctcd  ibal  there  ihould    be   a    ma^ceitji    ai  the   forty 

eight  10  cjilled.  at  all  electiont  of  m»yan  and  bLiililiii.  jcd  it  wasetated  that  at  llw 

elociion  of  Mr.  Millar  to  be   mayor,  there   wm  not  a   majority   uf   the    fraty  dgbl 

preient,  and  tbere  liu  a  Bu^ority  <A  the  forty-eight    belongiag  to  the  eorporatioa, 

ihia   was   alktwed   by   tbe    coon  to    be   such   a   defect    Ikai    ihey    were    declifad 

lo    bo    in    a    atale    of    dis»oiiiti»n,  and    that    ihcy    could     not    legally    elect    aef 

offieer* :    the    coiueijuenfe    W3i,    a     new    churtet    wu    deemed    oeceeKuy.      Thia 

Thi*  ttiired  a  coolrtneray  whether  the  corpontlion  only  should  •eiiic  the  terms  and 

artKle»  of  the  new  charter,  or  w)»oiher   Ibe   town    gcBerally  shonU   be    cddiuhcd. 

The  corporation  rtmiited  tkb.  but  many    of  the  Inhabitant*   junembled    logetbet   fai 

the  ravWf  b.ilt  (the  town  ImII  having  been    relined),  warmlr   njotende^   they    had 

a  right  (o  give  ihcir  opinioa  in  tbe  fotnultoa  of  tbt  new  rhiitcr,  and  tbe   dispnia 

woa  (arrlcd  to  aiwh  »  length,  that  liamJbilU  appe«tetl    un   both  aidet.    Ttwse  who 

called  tfcemMlrei  tbe  town  agreed  lo  petition  the  king  for  this  p«rpo*e,  and  abvnt 

five  bundrvd   oames  were  ligned  and  pieeoMed  by  the  Hon  Ed.  Bouirerip,  una  of 

oer  Te|)rcKiit4tivr3,  but  ihia  had  Utile    or   ai>  efleti,  for    ai    length   a    new    durtcr 

was  granted,  wherein  lU  the  memben  «l  the  old  corporatioc    w«te   nantvd.  aad    ta 

general   wm  a  InnKript    nf    tte  old  one,  with  «ome  trilling   legulationa.     It  waa 


CIVIC    GOVERNMENT    AND    STATE.  25 

lirought  to  the  town  with  great  triumph,  by  the  major,  Lord  Compton,  and  Mr. 
Perceval,  the  deputy  recorder. 

The  new  charter,  with  some  account  of  the  rejoicings  on  its 
arrival,  has  been  set  forth  in  full  in  the  first  volume. 

It  was  intended  to  hold  an  assembly  in  the  guildhall,  on 
October  23rd,  1797,  but  for  want  of  a  majority  of  the  house  no 
legal  business  could  be  transacted.  Wherefore  the  mayor  and 
three  justices  of  the  peace  fined  each  of  the  absent  members 
6s.  8d.  The  absentees  included  three  aldermen,  eight  bailiffs,  and 
twenty  two  of  the  forty-eight. 

It  was  decided  in  August,  1798,  that  for  the  future,  "when 
any  question  be  agitated  in  this  House  the  same  shall  be  deter- 
mined by  Ballot  to  be  then  immediately  determined,  provided 
alwaj'S  that  such  Ballot  be  demanded  by  at  least  three  members 
then  present."  This  ballot  resolution  was  immediately  put  into 
effect  on   a  poll  for  the   mayor  elect. 

An  assembly  summoned  for  July  31st,  1800,  failed  to  obtain 
the  legal  quorum  of  a  majority,  whereupon  the  defaulters  (to 
number  of  twenty  three)  were  all  summoned  to  appear  in  the 
guildhall  at  three  o'clock  the  following  Monday,  to  show  cause 
why  they  should  not  be  fined.  Twelve  of  the  defaulters  were 
fined  6s.  8d.,  for  having  respectively  failed  to  assign  a  sufficient 
cause   or   excuse   for   their   non-attendance. 

There  was  a  like  failure  to  form  a  quorum  in  October,  1802, 
when  there  were  thirty  four  absentees,  twenty  five  of  whom 
were  eventually   fined   6s.   8d. 

The  usual  summons  failed  to  bring  together  a  full  assembly 
on  November  5th,  1807,  no  fewer  than  thirty  live  being  absent.  Of 
this  number  fourteen  were  fined  6s.  8d.  during  the  following 
week.  The  adjourned  assembly  met  with  but  little  better  success, 
for  on  November  12th,  there  were  twenty  five  absentees,  hlow- 
ever,  there  must  have  been  some  very  special  occurence  on 
that  day,  for  the  excuses  of  the  whole  twenty  five  were 
considered  valid  by  the  mayor  and  justices  when  they  appeared 
before  them  on    November   23rd 

It  was  agreed  by  the  assembly  of  November  23rd,  1807,  that 
the  business  of  the  coming  meeting,  and  all  notices  of  motion, 
should  be  sent  out  to  every  member  of  the  corporation  together 
with   his   summons. 

TTie    22nd  of   October,   1810,  was  another  instance  of  a  failure 


36 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RBCOROS. 


to  make  a  house ;  37  mtmben  were  absent,  so  that  no  legal 
busiaess  could  be  uodcrtakcn.  A  further  assembly  n-as  sum- 
moned for  the  follo^'ing  Friday,  and  all  the  defaulters  were 
called  upon  by  the  mayor  and  justices  to  explain  their  absence. 
The  result  'was.  that  a  6nc  ot  6s.  8d.  was  imposed  on  twenty 
two  of  the  members. 

There  were  thirty  five  absent  from  an  intended  assembly,  in 
April,  181 1,  but  only  two  of  the  number  were  eventually  hned» 
and   that  in  the  reduced  penalty  of  5s. 

On  October  2Zad  of  the  same  year,  thirty  one  were  absent 
from  a  duly  summoned  house,  so  that  no  assembly  could  be 
formed.  The  justices  were  now  roused  to  more  stringent 
measures :  on  October  26th,  seven  of  the  defaulters  were  fined 
135.  4d.,  and  sixteen  of  the  otlicrs  6s.   8d.  each. 

The  laxity  of  attendance  was  not,  however,  yet  checked.  It 
was  intended  to  hold  an  assembly  on  January  nth,  i8t3,  but 
actually  ■  forty  five  members  of  the  house  were  absent.  The 
justices  met  on  January  19th,  when  they  fined  four  of  the 
defaulters  20s.,  one  of  them  13s.  4d.,  and  two  6s.  Sd.  An  assembly 
was  summoned  for  the  same  day,  when  there  were  again 
thirty  defaulters.  On  this  occasion,  the  aldermen  distinguished 
themselves  by  their  absence,  ten  of  Oicir  number  stopping  away 
including  two  jui^tices.  On  January  28th,  only  seven  of  the 
offenders  were  fined,  the  line  in  each  case  being  6s.  8d. 

'llicre  was  another  failure  to  make  a  house  on  March  nth, 
1816,  when  thirty  members  were  absent.  A  week  later,  the 
mayor  and  justices  fined  three  of  the  defaulters  13a.  ^d...  and 
eighteen  6s.  8d. 

A  fiasco  of  a  like  character  had  to  be  recorded  on  January  7th, 
1819.  An  assembly  had  been  summoned,  but  it  could  not  be  held' 
as  forty  members  of  the  house  were  absent  The  mayor  and 
justices  imposed  fines  of  13s.  4d.  on  four  of  the  defaulters,  whilst 
twenty  nine  had  to  pay  6s.  8d. 

An  assembly  was  intended  to  be  held  on  October  3151,  1S23, 
and  the  usual  summons  issued,  but  for  want  of  a  majority  no 
business  could  be  transacted.  The  mayor  and  justices  ordered 
the  thirty  five  absent  members  to  appear  before  them  on  Noveos- 
bcr  8th,  to  show  cause  why  they  should  not  be  fined,  when 
twenty  eight  of  the  number  were  fined  6s,  8d.  each. 

On  September  5th,    1834,   an  assembly    was    duly    summoned. 


i 


I 

I 

I 
I 


avtC    GOVERNMENT    AND    STATE. 


27 


1  thcrr  being  no  majority  present  it  could  not  be  held.  The 
taavur  and  iustices  issurd  summon.scs  a^itist  ciKht  aldcnncn, 
twelve  baihfTa.  Hnd  twenty  &ix  burf;c»ses,  for  absence,  with  the 
reaiilt  that  four  of  the  dclinqucnls  were  lined  13s.  4*!.  each,  and 
Iwcnty  six  6».  8d.  Atvothcr  assembly  was  called  for  September 
9lh,  and  again  there  was  no  quorum.  This  time  there  were 
twenty  six  absentees,  one  of  whom  was  fined  13s.  4d.,  and  Iwcnty 
6s,  8d.  Eventually  an  assembly  was  got  together  on  Scplt^rnber 
i8th.  Tile  old  corponilion  apparently  desired  to  keep  up  their 
repuUtion  for  slovenly  attendance  to  the  end  of  their  days,  there 
being  further  fines  for  non-attendance  in  1835,  the  last  year  of 
their  existence. 

With  regard  to  finance,  the  spirit  of  reform  that  was  in  the  air 
a0ei.trd  even  some  members  of  the  old  corporation.  In  January,  1831, 
a  liandbill  issued  by  Alderman  Hewlett  to  members  of  the  corporation, 
and  to  the  presK.  relative  to  the  town  accounts  was  discussed  by 
the  assembly.  The  chief  points  of  thia  paper  were,  that  most 
of  ttte  sources  of  revenue,  arising  from  charitable  bequests, 
butcher's  stalls,  tolls,  etc.,  were  in  the  hands  of  several  private 
persoos  engaged  in  trade,  instead  of  being  placed  at  some 
respectable  b&nking  eiUablishment ;  that  no  balance  sheet  had  e^Tr 
been  published  or  distributed  among  the  members  of  the  cor- 
poration; and  iJiat  the  grvat  body  of  the  corporation  were  in  a 
stale  of  total  ignorance  as  to  the  manner  in  which  the  large 
pTLTperty  under  their  management  was  regulated.  Alderman 
Hrwlrtl  proceeded  to  recommend  lliat  the  whole  linances  of  Ihe 
corporation  be  placed  in  the  hands  of  a  smalt  committee  holdir^ 
ao  other  oflire,  who  should  keep  a  proper  banking  account,  and 
bold  DMiciUiiy  meetings ;  that  all  accounts  should  be  subject  to 
liie  perusal  of  all  members;  a^id  that  the  auditors  5^hould  issue 
annual  balance  sheets.  The  assembly  refused  to  discuss  these 
proposals,  and  passed  resolutions  condemnatory  of  the  unusual, 
^^niproper,  and  prejudicial  proceedings  of  .'VIderman  Hewlett. 
^^B  la  1633,  however,  ao  elaborate  report,  extending  over  many 
^^K^es  was  made  to  the  assembly  by  a  special  committee  appointed 
^^B  autltl  tlie  whole  of  the  corporation  accounts.  Their  recom- 
■Dcndations  included  that  of  having  a  proper  banking  account,  the 
pUa  c^  leaving  moneys  in  the  hands  of  individual  members  of  the 
ration  being.  "  to  say  the  IcaM.,  inconvenient  and  objectionable.'' 
Tbe  private  fund  department  offered  the  greatest   opportunity 


a8 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


for  nbusf ;    it  drall  with  large  figiireit.  halancii^   to  i)i555-  5s.  5^1 
for  1832.     To  ihis  fund  were  paid  almoat  the  whole  of   ihe 
Out   of    il    came    the    numerous    "treats"    and   "feastioj5S," 
utdition  to   Lhosr  of  the  mayor      Even   the   oirporation   committee'' 
Mggested  that  "the  several  Grants  made  by   the   Corporation   furj 
the   customary    entertainments    be    immediately    considered 
rcvtsed  in  order  that   a   reduction   may  be   made  in  these  mnc] 
Your  Committee   therefore   recommend  that  in  future   the   numl 
of  penionR    invited   to  such  efitcrtainmenls  arc  strictly  confined  to| 
those  immediately  concerned  in  the  business  of  the  day,  and  II 
in  no  iuBUim-e  the  sum  drawn  for  such  a  purpose  exceed   fift* 
shillings  each  person." 

Con»tdcring  that  the  committee  consisted  exclusively  of  mem!; 
of  ihc  corporation  of  lon^  standini;  (siimc  of  whom  had  ih' 
acted  Ml  treaiurrrs  of  the  various  contplicated  fuad^and  cii 
the    concludinR    paragraph    of    their    long    report    is    exceed! 
•eve  re:— 

"  Your    Committee   in  closing  the    remarks    called    lor   in  tl: 
procreft  of  lhi»   protracted  examination  of  the  accounts    feel 
de»ire  tiot   to   say    one  word   that   may   give   offence   to   any 
but  Ihcy  arc  bound  by  a  sense  of  Pttty  and  nith  deep  reluctnr 
to  «y  many  clurccs  ha^r  found  a  place  in  the  accounu  of  tl 
CoqMntion  that  If  duly  coosideRd  would  ticver  have  af 
Mtd  if  properly  examined  would  ha\-e  beefl  considerably   red'iced." 

With  rriratd  to  feAslinjc  and  like  ejqxodilure,  more  will  be  loui 
in  the  sub>c<)ucnt  ai-ccunt^  of  the  office  of  mayor,  of  the  court 
aldermen,  of  tfae  town  hall,  of  Sir  Tltocnas  White's  charity,  and 
llie  cattle-hramUnjt  day,  etc.     Il  may  here  be  menlioned.  *i>  far 
it  AlTcvIs  the  assembly,  that  oa   May   J5th.    1815.  it  wa»  ordrro-d   byj 
tKv  aioraiMy  "  that  the  wlwtr  Hootv  be  invited  to  dioe  on  tfae 
Verutry  of  ilw  jqlh  Mar,  and  thai  the  otdinarT  be  paid   by 
OwMbrriaiii.'' 

Tkut  oM  a<9embty.  caned  into  being  in  14SQ.  <fied  with  the 
«l  the  Munkipal  Kefvxtn  Art  (m  Seprembrr  9th.  1855.     The  fmn* 
Arc   ■>  -        ~  '    ''-\j>  pancraiplu  of   ttie    lone  repoet  made   in 
l>rr\  '^^  remmiKfWMen  vn  cwMcipal  oofponDoai 

a  nsun  of  the  (»>  bcM  in  NorthaaBptan.    Srvefc  as 


1*  E  n.it.-  iM'o.i-.t    iv    — ~  I  "ra 


in  its  MnctiUv^ 

fHkrt  ft   Km*at»«l  noUWj-  oa  LorcfKer 


.^ber  c<arparati»r 


■■1 


30 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


The  Mayors,  and  Mayoks'  Accounts. 

The  popularly-elected  mayor,  as  successor  to  his  prcdtcessor  tbc 
reeve,  came  into  being  in  Nortliampton,  as  has  been  already  stated, 
between  the  years  1227  and  1252.  The  chief  magistrate  o( 
Leice.ster  tirst  obt-iined  that  title  in  I3ji  :  but  there  seems  good 
reason  to  think  that  the  change  of  nomenclature  at  Northampton, 
came  about  at  least  as  early  as  1240. 

A  few  interesting  facts  in  connection  with  the  earlier  mayors 
arc  established  by  the  Liber  Cuxlumarum  of  the  first  volume, 
such  as  the  order  of  1381  that  the  out-going  mayor  should  be  one 
of  the  p,'irliamentar\'  burgoiises ;  the  order  of  1437  lh:il  no  one  should 
be  mayor  a  second  time  till  seven  years  had  elapsed,  passed  by  the 
assembly  when  John  Sprigs*  finished  his  fourth  mayoralty ;  and  the 
order  of  1448  for  freeing  a  past  mayor  from  brewing  dues  and  from 
watch  and  ward  service.  *  His  position  as  esclieator  of  the  town,  as 
clerk  of  the  market,  and  as  presiding  judge  of  the  weekly  huntings 
or  court  of  record  is  also  there  established.  In  short,  there  seems  to 
be  no  privilege  attached  to  the  position  of  chief  townsnun  in  other 
boroughs  which  did  not  belong  to  Northampton's  mayor,  and  there 
were  but  few  towns  wherein  the  mayor  had  so  many  dignities,  or 
where  the  whole  community  were  expected  to  so  implicitly  respond 
to  his  personal  summons. 

By  letters  patent  of  Nfay  and,  1478,  it  was  granted  that  all 
future  mayors  of  Northampton  should  be  permitted  to  lake  llieir 
oath  of  office  before  the  ex-mayor,  the  recorder,  and  the  four 
coroners,  or  any  two  of  them,  instead  of  being  put  to  the  expense 
of  proceeding  to  London  to  take  the  oath  before  the  barons  of  the 
exchequer.  Simon  Bradtield,  mayor  1478-*;,  was  the  first  to  avail 
himself  of  this  privilege. 

The  following  particulars  with  regard  to  the  mayors  of  North- 
ampton have  been  gathered  (with  a  few  exceptions  culled  from 
private  manuscript  sources)  from  the  orders  of  the  assembly,  the 
minutes  of  the  aldermen's  court,  and  from  the  mayor's  accounts. 

Lawrence  Manley  was  elected  mayor  for  the  fourth  time  in  the 
year  1558,  and  at  an  assembly,  held  soon  alter  the  choice,  it  was 
resolved : — 

That  nanan  shalb*  msior  twic«  in  th«  ipsre  of  vij  yer»t  and  that  no  man  tktf 
bare  ben  tbrisM  maioui  shalbe  chusen  maiouc  anymore  diiting  ha  Ij^  naCurall. 

Id  1565,  it  was  ordered  that  if  any  matter  of  contention  happen 

•  So  vol.  I.,  pp.  u>,  »7S,  Mt, 


CIVIC    GOVERNMENT  AND    STATE. 


moved  op  stirred  b^lwixt  any  that  have  borne  ihe  office  of 
DO^r,  and  the  matter  lawfully  laid  before  the  mayor  for  the  time 
uag  and  his  brethren,  their  decision  must  be  adhered  to  under  pain 
ex^tstoo  from  court  and  council,  together  with  the  jienalty  of 
fc  pounds  for  the  use  of  tlic  diamber.     The  .-issembly    in  1570 
jrctd : — 

Thu  MO  free  hmd  at  ibb  lownc  U  »af  tlene  btrreafter  xtuilbe  eleci«))o  snil  dwsen 
■uMv    uf    N'tittliAinjiton  bul  twitte  in   hi*   lyff  time   >nd  no   mora  asjr  farmer  acta 
•mdtr  10  the  cnoitaric  inaAt  Qotwithfiandinge, 

At  the  (usembly  held  on  Sept.  I5lh,  1570,  the  following  order 
IS   made  with  reference  to  that  fertile  source  of   dispute    and 
constant  duinge.  tlie  mayor's  allowance  : — 

FsTMRMcht  n  ihc    miiior   of   llih   worstiipfull    Buiught    U,   bjr    reason   of    bis 
aKrc    nf    miotaltte   ibttn   ami     M>ndrjwalF4   charged    to    the   greatt:    byiidrcAunc* 
pwl)^  an  uMloinec  10   sum«   Which  be  not  rety    nrell    liable   to  go   thniughs 
h  IIm  www.  In  cuniidcration  wbemuf  ihcnt  hatbc  bcfl  in  tymca  p«M  dyvns  am) 
aBovnnnu*  ytauMed  nnu  the  nutor   sotnewhat   tn   exuaent*   Um   of  the 
il  eiuif|r,  vhich  allntraarice  uf   late  jcrea  bave  txo  taken  awaye  and  the  maior 
to  a  juiiafk  Myp«nt  of  ax  rturicr*  tenranli    hU  <harge,   whkh    in    topoct 
of  ttm  Hmn  yi  at  ninrkv  ;is    Doihinge.  wh^'rfar   in    comidfntlon   off   the    ptetnlses 
for  tW  better  mainuiuikce  <tt  ihij   boroajhc  in  dioflkc  of  malniltie,   It  to 
iBMf  and    (onvenieot   thai   the   tnaioi   (or  (be   lime  hetng   fur  (he  better 
maoec  of  hi*  oLiie  ih.tll   have  ht>  mid  lilpcnt   of   u"  mark*   nude   op  »>■ 
Im  pcyde  him  owte  tif  tbe  diambet  of  llw  tuwne.  And  aUo  the  making  Free  ot 
I  man,  ■rfat'h  h«  atiall  not  nonda  accoantatb  for. 

An  ordi^r  of  the  assembly  made  on  June  38th,  1588,  recites 
whereas  the  mayor  has  for  several  years  received  twenty 
"towardes  hi»  dynner  at  Christyde  and  feasting  then, 
jUid  suche  other  like  his  greate  chardges,"  aud  whereas  also  the 
dumbf^rlaui  at  Ihe  town  charge  had  made  a  feast  called  St. 
Leonard*!*  (east,  seeing  that  the  chamber  is  very  poor  and  im- 
i-erishcd  il  is  now  ordered  that  for  the  space  of  six  years  there 
m>  feasiinji  ifither  at  Christmas  or  on  St.  Leonard's  day,  and 
twenty  pounds  be  remttttrd  for  that  period,  and  the  mayor 
oohr  expected  to  give  a  dinner  at  Michaelmas  and  on  the  day 
bU  election. 

In    1592,  otw  John  Kirkland,  alderman,  and  his  wife  plead  that 

are    both   of  them,  much  broken  with  age,  and  so  feeble  and 

lent,  thai  tbey  are  scarcely  able  to  walk,  much  less  to  ride, 

therefore  he  prays  to  be  excused  from  serving  the  office 

Lj-ment  of  Ave  pounds,  to  be  expended   in  paving 


3* 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RHCORDS. 


the  queen's  highway,  between  the  we«t  gate  and  the  west 
bridge,  the  assembly  agreed  lo  ac(|uil  him  for  e*-er  from  holding 
the  mayoralty.  On  all  state  and  important  occasions,  the  mayor  and 
aldermen  were  always  expected  to  ride  on  horseback  in  all  the 
bravery  of  their  scarlet  gowns. 

At  the  October  assembly  of  t5g4.  it  was  agreed  that  George 
Redfenie,  cook,  in  consideration  of  the  dutiful  service  heretofore 
done  and  hereafter  to  be  done  lo  the  mayor  for  the  time  being 
according  to  his  humble  petition,  should  have  a  "  f recse  coatc  " 
bestowed  on  him,  and  a  similar  gift  henceforth  yearly  at  the  feast 
of  St.  Michael.  The  time  of  feasting  at  the  chief  magistrate's 
expense  being  at  Michaelmas,  when  he  assumed  ulTicc,  that  season 
was  evidently  considered  the  fitting  time  for  some  token  o(  the 
corporation's  appreciation  of  the  mayor's  cook! 

On  July  17th,  1621,  the  assembly  again  made  an  ordinance  for 
the  withholding  ol  the  special  grant  of  j(^20  usually  paid  to  (he 
mayor,  for  a  term  of  ten  years.  The  next  atiscmbly,  howe^'er, 
held  on  August  7th,  when  the  new  mayor  was  elected,  made  the 
above  order  "fruslrat  and  voyde " 

In  1623,  it  was  agreed  that  the  laudable  custom  of  the  alder- 
men, bailiffs,  and  forty-eight  attending  upon  the  mayor  in  their 
best  apparel  "for  the  proclayming  of  the  Crie  and  proclamation 
heretofore  accustomed  upon  the  knowliiig  of  the  bell  three  limes 
and  to  continue  till  all  bee  done"  shall  be  continued  under  pain 
of  35.  4d,  from  a  defaulting  alderman,  2s.  6d.  from  a  bailiff,  aad 
2s.  from  a  burgess- 
It  was  also  ordertsi  that  if  any  mayor  shall  hereafter  omit  to  make 
tl)e  proclamation  he  shall  forfeit  £$. 

Amongst  a  variety  of  long  moral  orders  passed  by  the  assembly 
in  November,  1634,  occurs  the  following,  in  restraint  of  undue 
feasting  : — 

Whereas  heretofore  yl  has  ben  acfuitomMl  that  lh«  mayor  of  Ms  totrae  tor  the 
tyme  beinge  ituA  the  BallifF»  alioe  nf  usuaiic  lo  (efuic  illvcrs  Inhnhitanii  uf  ili.hi 
totrnc  .mil  theii  vrj-vijs  aiiii  dlvcm  olhcr  (heir  aIIic*  and  fricndt  inwdiatclie  aft«i 
the  Fea«tG  of  the  N;itivitie  oE  Chmt  >-carlie  to  witt  the  nuiora  for  ccnain*  dmjti 
\a  It  weelie  then  after  and  the  BttiliScs  for  corttiine  days  In  other  werks  then  after 
ceawquentlte  one  Balliffe  nftvt  another,  Now  (ot  thnt  yi  appcarvih  thnt  the  usuall 
feastiogc  in  (hit  kindc  is  vcrie  xii perfluoDs  nnd  the  Creatures  ordayncd  for  RCCcsAtrte 
UM  are  uBn«c»«nrllie  consumed  to  gr«.ite  and  cxtraordin.iri«  charge,  and  to  tnudi 
damige  and  hurl  of  the  iitne  Maior  and  Oaylifftn,  Ii  is  nowe  Ihcrrfore  ordered  and 
agreed  by  tlii*  Auemblic  that  neither  th«  moior  that  nowe  i>  nor  the  Baylides  tluit 


CtVfC  GOVERNMENT  AND  STATE. 


33 


KW  any  thu  tiemaficr  shalbe  niaior  or  B-iyli^o  ol  ihU  Corpomtlon  diall 
hti  k«rpc  any  (KUtbge  Id  iny  Rwek««  oflei  ihe  cudc  feafle  of  lb«  Naiiritle 
7««tlie  aj  ih«y  uauallJc  Iiavc  Aceusiomcd  (»  doB  nor  at  »nj  fltber  tynw  .  .  .  upon 
pftin  ttf  «wie  miior  c4  ba^riffcs  nflwuling*  in  th«  brmch  of  tbb  praMnt  ordiiunce 
tor^Ehe  tod  pa)^  Twceiie  poinuSea. 

It  WIS,  however,  provided  that  the  mayor  might  be  allowed, 
tcording  to  old  custom,  to  entertain  the  forty -eight  at  his  own  house 

dinner,  thr  naid  burgesses  having  previously  attended  the  mayor 

I  chur<!-h,  and  from  church  to  the  guildhnll  (or  the  taking  of  his  onth. 

■-'»  vrovidt'd  that  thv  bailiffs  w<:rc  to  have  liberty  to  entertain 

:nU  and  acquriintances  at  any  other  time  except  the  weeks 

ter  Christmas,  but  the  bailtff<i'  feast  was  not  to  coosist  of  anything 

)nj  than  "  one  messe  of  meetc  at  tmt:  t>Tne." 

One  of  the  numcnnis  signs  of  the  times,  in  1640,  that  foretold  the 

ling  ^rcat  civil  struggle  vi^s  the  curtailing  of  the  fee  hitherto  paid 

royal  messengers.  Up  to  Deceinbcr  18th  of  that  year  it  had  been 
Tualoniar}-  (or  the  mayor  of  Northampton  to  pay  a  king's  messenger 
ringing  writs  and  bundles  of  proclamations  3:^.  4.d.  for  every 
writ  But  at  that  date,  the  assembly  decided  that  this  fee, 
rhich  vras  growing;  to  be  a  heavy  charge,  was  merely  a  gratuitous 
lowancc,  and  did  not  rrprcscnt  any  legal  charge  on  the  coiporation 
fhey  ihefcfore  ordered  thai  hencdortfa  no  more  than  I2d.  was  to  be 
&j<I  to  Uie  messenger  for  each  writ  ^vilh  proclamations,  and  that  if 
ny  ma>-or  saw  lit  to  pay  any  more  that  it  should  not  be  allowed  him 

bis  mayoralty  account. 

A  private  copy  of  a  contemporary  manuscript  gives  an  interesting 
crount  of  ttie  long  struggle  that  took  place  at  the  assembly  on  the 
[choice  day  "  for  mayor  in  the  year  1657  : — 

A  (teat  ruoicsi  uxoat  lKi>  year  about  tbe  ckoicc  of  ihe  Mayor.  Mr.  Sargcant 
pomiajtgd  Mr.  Co!Uo4  for  his  joinl.  M(.  Gifloid  being  the  eldol  AUermaa  nomiaatcd 
Mr.  Rogc;  Wllliami  agaliw  bim  so  k  went  to  vole  between  Hie  Va/or  and  Alderman 
aai  Mr.  WlWuni  earned  (t,  then  aftef  ibe  Baillf!*  wmc  called  the  Mayor  nude  knvwn 
nkal  wu  dxnc  xmnnpt  tbem,  u>  Iheo  Mr.  John  Smart  htdug  one  of  the  cUeit  oj  (he 
taUfts.  W  ttasntrcd  and  lald  let  >u  go  up  aad  thialc  of  a  third  man.  whidi  Hhea  (bey 
fmi  »o  dont>  they  nominated  Mr.  Jooaihan  Whittoa  and  divided  thcnMlTci  sft«r  gr*tt 
J^mlm  aBoUfit  them  m  itut  (btra  <rai  17  to  10.  Tben  wben  (hey  had  done  (he  4S 
Tliilfiiwi  ixr*  called,  which  when  tkr.y  wvrv  come  Mr.  Mayor  made  known  what  He 
mat  tbm  Aldnrmofi  had  done  and  what  the  Biiim*  had  doiw,  bm]  did  propound  to  them 
tte  Tbne  RM»  tbai  were  in  qocstlon,  and  uid  it  hy  .ifore  (hem  cltlier  to  chose  a  4tli 
BM  oe  let  It  f«  as  th»  Btiliff*  h«d  made  choice  ol.  l^poo  (Kat  they  withdrew  and 
■p  ru  roftuder  atnonf{il  ihcmMlvn,  and  »  last  divided,  and  when  Ibey  voted 
Lber  ahou  s  pt  G  did  wltb  one  cooMot  vote  for  the  thinl  man  whld)  waa  Mr. 

D 


34 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


JOMthin  Whiiion  and  so  continued,  Whereupon  the  Mayor  and  Aldermen  Meii>{r  of 
them  to  reiolulc  aitd  uomoveable  (rom  their  choice,  the  Mayor  did  adjoutn  ihe 
Asaembly  till  the  ne«I  day  being  Friday  the  7lh  <A  August  at  one  o'clock  xny* 
allernuun  at  their  peril*  to  meet,  which  come  they  all  met  and  Mr.  Mayor  He  nude  a 
•perch  to  Ihem  ahewing;  that  Mr.  Whtiton  wk»  not  cjpnble  of  the  place  by  rmniti  Im 
would  nni  be  confonnahle  and  (akr  ;iri  Oxth  to  give  his  besi  Advice  according  to  Ihe 
be*l  knowledge  and  cunning  he  could  a>  Mayor  for  the  year.  Vel  for  all  thai  and 
many  arguments  uted  too  the  house  could  not  beat  them  off.  but  they  did  continue  Still 
as  ruolute.  to  thitt  at  length  Mr.  Mayor  and  Aldnmen  did  yclld  and  seod  for  Mr. 
Whlxton  by  two  Aldermen  and  three  BailiRa  (o  nee  whether  he  wculd  take  oath  or 
not  so  that  all  dictractioini  might  be  ervded.  And  when  Mr.  Whistuti  came  Mr- 
Mayor  made  a  short  speech  to  him  and  hinting  to  him  the  love  oi  the  house  towards 
bim  and  alio  perauading  him  to  take  the  oath  whereupon  it  was  read  to  him,  and  H« 
turning;  towards  ihe  house  asked  them  if  it  was  their  desire  for  him  to  do  sof  The} 
answered  all  generally  thnt  it  was  theii  dcsiie,  so  then  he  took  hit  oath,  and  tbcy 
three.  Mr.  Cultlni  Mr.  Willljms  and  Mr.  Wlnstuii  vtent  to  scrutini/e.  and  Mr.  Whlston 
carried.  There  waa  not  Mayor  Aldermen  BailifFs  and  48  QutECue^  abova  30  Voic«a 
against  him  so  he  had  a  fair  Election,  and  being  so  dona  h«  want  up  into  hit  plac* 
and  gave  the  house  many  Ihanks  far  their  love.  In  the  next  place  he  vras  to  elect 
his  BailiRi,  which  ihoni^h  it  wu  h  euBtom  for  him  to  nominate  to  the  Mayor  and 
the  Aidesmen  in  the  Council  house,  and  far  them  to  get  two  other  against  them.  He 
thought  not  so  but  came  out  to  the  house  to  ac((uaint  them  asking  ibem  which  1 
They  satisfied  him  It  was  the  custom  and  persuaded  him  to  do  it,  so  then  he  went 
into  the  Council  House  and  made  choice  of  Robert  Coles  and  John  Howes,  and 
the  Mayor  aad  Aldermen  chose  Joseph  Warner  and  Juhn  Woulston,  but  Mf.  Msyor 
■lect's  choice  stood,  in  regard  they  never  go  about  to  crQuaw,  and  this  wa*  tha 
and  of  our  cltKiion, 


After  the  very  prominent  part  that  Northampton  took  in  the 
great  rebellion,  it  is  not  surprising  to  find  ttiat  the  town  was 
some  time  in  settling  down  to  orderly  self  govemmeat.  This 
displaccinent  of  duly  elected  officia.Is,  noticed  subsequently  under 
"  National  Events,"  did  not  tend  in  the  direction  of  peace. 

On  August  igtb,  1663.  at  the  close  of  the  mayoralty  of  John 
BraGeld  (who  had  twice  before  been  fined  for  refusing  the  office 
when  duly  elected),  it  was  agreed  to  bold  the  mayor  and  justices 
and  other  offlciaht  harmless,  and  not  to  bear  the  cost  of.  any 
actions,  suits,  molestations,  damages  or  demands  that  may  happen 
to  them  for  any  official  act  or  thing  dune  by  them.  The  preamble 
to  this  somewhat  wholesale  rider,  signed  by  the  mayor,  states  that 
it  is  passed  in  consequence  of  the  implacable  spirit  of  several  pcrsoiu 
turned  out  of  their  places  at  the  restoration,  who  made  it  their 
design  and  business  to  foment  and  stir  up  suits  at  law  against  those 
who  bad  then  the  management  of  affairs. 


CIVIC  COVEItNMENT  AND  STATE. 


35 


be  occasion  of  the  mcclinR  of  the  assembly  on  August   i»t, 
Tor    ihc    election   of  a  mayor,    at    the    guildhall,    "ye  dore 
beinj;  broake  open,"  as   the   town    cleric   adds   in    the   mar^n,  the 
lyor  was  absent,  a  circumstance  without  a  precedent.    Tlic  pro- 
lings  are  ihus  recorded: — 

AD  Ihtt  AU«t<neR  Bajrtifii  and  BurfeMc*  of  ye  tuwn  of  NorthamptMi  in  je 
Peace  ei  God  and  (be  Ktft{  were  metl  and  auembled  together  to  elecf  a  Mayat 
a«i  BajrfiCs  fat  the  ym  emiCBC  harin^  used  our  almost  ■ndtaraur  to  obuia  y* 
Hay*^  ftmmtet  and  aaiManra  thanin,  whoa  notwiihnaading  hath  abaantad  iamt- 
arite  W<  thartfan  hereby  Testify  aiMl  Deft«re  thai  we  whtne  namM  are  iiib«rr^bed 
(bd  j«  ad  Majrar  b«e*e  here  present)  wvold  have  noted  Mr.  John  Freod  to  have 
tec*  majw  for  j*  jraar*  vrautiag  and  hercbr/  d«oLar«  itui  w«  (u  much  as  In  na 
lyatL)  Doe  Wiebr  clan  and  rhooie  Mr  John  Pfend  {one  of  ve  Aldcmten  of  tbia 
Utwvm)  la  t*  nujrar  c4  this  CorporatiOB  ttn  the  luccecdieg  y«ire  Wilneuc  our 
Inoda  this  Taoih  day  of  Augiiit  In  tbe  Sennleeolh  year  a(  the  raiKaa  at  ovr 
So*OTai(*e  Lord  King  Cfaatki  y>  Mcoad  ov«t  Enxland.  etc  ,  1665. 

Here  follow  the  sigrutiires  of  six  aldermen,  fifteen  bailiffs,  and 

lirty    bi»rge*ses.      A   note   fttgned    "  Henry   Lee,    Towne   Clerk," 

10  the  efTrct  that  the  assembly  also  elected  John  Summer 

EbTa.ll  to  be  bailiffs. 

On  Michaelmas  day,  when  the  new  mayor,  Mr.  Frend,  should 

ive  cAtertained  the  corporation  and   his  friends,  he   was  taken 

kway  prisoner,  on  the   lord   lieutenant's  warrant,  to  Rushden,  on 

unknown  charge,      The   aldermen,   however,  gave   bail   of 

iiooo,   for   his   loyally,  bat   ex-maj'or    Ptckmer  still   refused   to 

iwear  bis  successor,  or  to  give  up  the  great  mace   as  the  emblem 

it   authority.     Eventually,    however,    victory    remained    with    Mr. 

^reod,  who  wa»  sworn  before  the  recorder.   Mr.  Pickmer,  together 

"with   bis  friciid   Mr.    Brafield  (the   king's  mayor  of    1662).  were 

^irripiisoned  for  three  weeks,  and  then  6ned,  and  disfranchised. 

On  Aupisl  2nd,  ]666,  Mr.  Richard  Rands   was   elected   mayor 

f'hf  the  greater  number  of  the  votes  of  this  hou!«.  and  the  sum 

ic^w"  he  offered  to  f>-ac  was  refused  and  would  not  be  accepted 

"-  Of  him  it  is  further  recorded  that,  being  elected  against   his 

11,  be  made  no  feast,  and  did  not  so  much  as  have  the  aldermen 

to  drink  a   glats   o(    wine     The    reflection    on    this    in   Ihc 

.Hall    MS.  is:— "he  had    more    wit  than  to   spend   hi-s   money   like 

that  went  before" 

In  Janaar}'.  1667-8.  it  was  ordered    that   a   return   be   made   to 

ilhc  writ  opf  mandamus  or  restitution  brought  by  Mr.  John  Hraficid, 

Idag's    mayor  of    1663,  who   had    identified   himself    with   Mr. 

D    3 


36 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


Pickmer's  action  of  1665,  for  restoring  him  to  hts  office  from  which 
he  was  ejected  "by  order  of  His  Ma"*  Counsel)  and  the  pro- 
ceedings of  this  house,  and  that  the  Mayor  and  all  persons 
concerned  be  borne  out  and  indemnified  from  all  charges  ind 
troubles  that  may  thereby  accrue  at  the  public  charge.''  Th« 
town  attorney  was  ordered  to  make  an  appearance  on  bchaU  of 
the  corporation. 

Mr.  Brafield  lost  his  case,  but  he  still  persevered.  His  next 
step  was  to  pick  out  certain  members  of  the  corporation,  and  to 
charge  them  in  the  court  of  exchequer  with  makinfr  a  false  return 
to  the  mandamus.  In  January,  1605-70,  tJic  assembly  declared 
that  the  return  was  made  by  the  M'holc  house  and  not  by  any 
individuals,  and  after  the  advice  of  council,  and  they  instructed 
those  against  whom  Bralicld  had  comrnenccd  his  actions  to  defend 
them  at  the  corporation'.'!  charge,  and  gave  a  bond  as  to  their 
responsibility  under  the  common  seal. 

A  year  later  it  was  decided  to  refer  the  dispute  between 
Brafield  and  the  corporation  lo  the  two  parliamentarj"  burgesse* 
of  Northampton,  Lord  O'Brian,  and  Sir  William  Farmer. 

Finally,  in  1671-2,  the  corporation  lost  their  case,  notwithstanding 
their  having;  acted  in  accordance  with  the  direct  commands  of  the 
privy  council  in  their  original  action,  and  Mr.  John  GraJield  was 
restored  to  his  place  and  oflicc  as  one  of  the  aldermen.  At 
the  same  time  Mr.  Francis  Pickmcr,  the  mayor  who  locked  up 
the  guildhall  and  set  the  whole  corporaliun  at  defiance,  was  also 
restored  to  the  like  place  and  office  of  alderman. 

It  would  appear  that,  notwithstanding  the  restoration,  a  considerable 
parly  remained  ui  the  Northampton  corporation  who  resented  what 
they  considered  undue  crown  interference,  and  that  Mr.  Brafield 
incurred  their  animosity,  in  1662,  as  the  royal  choice.  Mr.  Pickmcr 
subsequently  posed  as  an  extreme  king's  friend,  and  with  his  foolish 
action  of  1O65  Mr.  Bradticld  was  identified. 

In  1671,  incidental  mention  is  made  of  the  "mayor's  owne 
allowance  of  £30  for  Feasting  in  his  mayoralt)-." 

M  the  assembly  of  August  2nd,  1694,  there  was  a  prolonged 
dispute  as  lo  mayoralty,  resulting  in  a  considerable  benefit  to  the 
common  purse  of  the  corporation.  Mr.  Mayor  nominated  Mr. 
Jonathan  Warner  as  mayor  elect.  Mr.  Spencer  being  senior 
alderman  nominated  Mr.  John  Whithouse ;  the  bailiffs  and  forty-eight 
nominated  Mr.  Ives.     The  result  of  the  voting  wa.s  the  election  of 


I 


CIVIC  COVERNMENT  AND  STATE. 


37 


Mr,  Tves,  but  he  declitwd  to  serve  and  paid  £10  fine.    The  mayor 

sum!  Alderman  Spetirf-r  repeated  their  nominations,  but  the  baitiffii 

and  burgesses  nominated  and  secured  the  majority  (or  Mr.  Wallis. 

■who,  however,  declined  Ibc  honour  and  j>aid  £10  fine.    The  mayor 

next  nominated  Mr.  Hayes,  and  Mr.  Spencer,  for  the  aldennen,  Mr. 

Parr  ;  but  (he  bailiffs  and  burgesses  secured  the  majority  for  Mr. 

Otllord,  and  he  also  declining  was  fined  £10.    Tlic  mayor's  choice 

then  fell  on  Mr   Hoare.  ihc  aldermen  on  Mr.  Ebrall.  and  the  bailiffs 

and  burgesses  on   Mr.  Whiston  who  was  elected  ;  but   Mr.  VV'histon 

like«-i»e  refused  to  act— the  usual  fine  was  imposed  and  paid,   be 

setting  off  a  debt  owed  him  by  the  corporation  and  therefore  paying 

^jf  40s-    TJtc  procedure  now  varied,  Mr.  Mayor  proposed  Mr.  Else, 

Mr.  Spencer  proposed  Mr.  John  Selby,  whJUl  the  bailiffs  and 

burgesses   refrained    from    «ny    nomination    of    Ihtir    own.      The 

asM'mbly  divided,  when  the  voles  were  found  to  be  equal,  and  Mr. 

Mayor  gi\*e  a  second  vote  for  Mr.  Else,  and  be  was  declared  duly 

dcLted.    The  town  exchequer,  however,  a^ain  profited,  for  Mr   Else 

refused  10  ierve,  ami  in  his  turn  placed  jflo  on  the  table.    Then  the 

mayor   D<Hninaied    Mr.   Jeffcutt,  and  Mr.    Spencer   nominated   Mr. 

lOldbaro.  whilst  ib«  bailiffs  and  burgesses  nominated  and  carried  Mr. 

[Styles  ;  but   Mr.  Styles  refused,  and  another  jfio  was  paid  to  the 

[chamber  stock      Then  ajrain  Mr.  Mayor  nominated  Mr.  lvor>-,  and 

the  same  being  offered  to  the  house,  the  house  unanimously  adopted 

|lum  ;  even  the  unanimous  vote  of  the  now  wear>-  assembly  did  not 

'paftfy  Mr.  Ivory,  who  preferred  his  freedom  from  office  to  the  £10 

penalty.      The    next    move    was  that   the    mayor    nominated    Mr. 

WoeUtun,  the  aldermen  made  no  nomination,  and  the  bailiffs  and 

bu';  "iKcand  carried  Mr.  Saunders,  but  he  too  refused  and 

}!»•■'  *■*"■     ■At  length  the  mayor  nominated  Mr.  John   Cnllins, 

^Vboby  voles  of  the  whole  bouse  was  unanimously  elected  mayor, 

and  being  elected  accepted  ot  th*  office  of  mayoralty. 

Tht  arbitrary-  action  of  James   II ,   in   removing,  two  yean  io 
'^Kucresston,  the  elected  maj-ors  in  favour  of  crown  rKXiiinccs  is  fully 
described  in  the  subsequent  section  00  "  National  Events." 

Io  KI92,  Waiiam  Agutter  became  ma>-or.     Hall's  MS.  sayi  tiaal 
Itarin^  been  chosen  ihrice  and  declining,  he  paid  his  £10  and  wm 
4,  '■  but  the  Mavfir calling  the  Doorke«peT  not  to  le*  btmsDout 
1  i».".ired  him  to  stand,  by  many  entreaties  he  was  ronsUaiaed  Mid 
and   took  ihi:  £10  which  he  had  laid  00  the  board."     It  ta 


38 


NORTHAMPTOK  BOROt'CH  RECORDS. 


added  that  "UiU  Mayor  excelled  manjr  (or  tcmpenuice  and  sobriety, 
aod  cfid  Dot  scii  the  towD  land  for  daret,  as  otbcrs  did." 

In  tbe  following  jrear  Samod  Qifford  was  mayor,  and  oo  tlie 
At^ust  cfaoke  day  great  difficult  an»e  id  persuading  anyone  to 
accept  the  office.  Tlic  proceedings  opened  at  noon  First.  Robert 
Ives  was  cboscn,  and  be  paid  £io  rather  than  serve,  and  liU  example 
was  followed,  with  like  results,  by  Me&^rs.  \Va]lt».  Gylca,  Sanders, 
QiAord,  Attcibury.  and  Whislon.  ''At  last  the  Mayor  being  weary 
with  dhtisiiDg,  and  being  past  eight  at  eight  be  did  determine  lo  call 
an  assembly  next  day,  but  being  put  in  mind  of  Mr.  Collins  wltu  mis 
not  there  did  »ciid  for  him.  he  had  not  been  bailiff,  but  to  avoid  tbe 
tnwble  of  it  he  stood,  being  half-past  nine  o'clock."  Thus  endeti  a 
mesDorable  contiouou^  sitting  of  nine  and  a  hsU  hours'  duration. 

Of  Mr.  John  Hoare,  the  mayor  chosen  in  169S,  the  Hall  MS. 
remarks:  "This  Mayor  was  sick  almoet  all  tbe  time  oi  tbe  Year, 
and  after  a  long  sickness  (oocasiooed  as  supposed  by  much  drinkiiqc 
and  feasting)  ga\e  up  tbe  tibost  Aognst  lotfa."  Tbe  rest  of  the 
sbort  time  be  had  to  serve  was  limshed  by  Mr.  Joha  Clarke,  hie 
■predecessor. 

From  tbe  town  records,  we  learn  that,  at  an  assembly  held  on 
August  3rd,  1699.  to  elect  a  new  mayor,  tbe  then  mayor,  Mr.  Hove, 
was  absent  through  severe  nrksess.  Mr.  Thomas  Brafidd  wu 
elected  to  act  as  usual  at  Michaelmas-  Immediately  altewanb  Hn 
Mayor  Hoare  died,  and  on  Aogusl  lotb  the  a^^cmblr  again  met  to 
supply  bis  place.  Mr.  Brafield  declined  to  an  till  Micbaetma>,  and 
Mr  John  Clarke  was  chosen  for  tbe  interval.  t»n  October  tyth  Mr. 
Braheld  took  the  chair  as  mayor  at  the  important  initial  assembly 
of  the  corporate  year-  But  his  due  appointment  to  the  office  could 
fM>t  be  recognised  until,  under  tbe  act.  he  had  receii-cd  the  blcsaid 
sacrament  and  obtained  his  certificate-  Before  thi3  could  be  done 
tbe  mayor  met  with  an  accident.  Un  December  37th  --,-  an 
as&embtr  *ns  held  summoned  by  tbe  aldermen  lor  tbe  c  -     '  a 

mayor.  "  Mr.  Brafield  the  present  Mayor  ha^-ing  ImMkc  his  Icgg 
and  not  able  to  goc  to  Cboich  to  receive  tbe  Sftcranent  and  quallify 
htmvdtfe  according  to  Lave."  Tbe  nuyorles*  aoembty  tbcrcfon 
again  formally  elected  Mr.  BraSekL,  and  a^  we  find  hira  duly  pmiding 
as  mayor  in  the  toliowiag  March,  we  cotKlnde  be  was  able  10  itccive 
the  sacrament  before  that  date. 

In  August,  t;oi,  the  boose  divided  on  a  motion  for  the  restaratxB 
of  bulges^  rights  to  one  ol  the  forty-eight  (Mr.  Benjamin  Bulln'ant} 


tf  i- 


40 


NORTHAMPTON   BOROUGH   RECORDS. 


the  town  arms  was  further  inscribed  ; — "  We  joy  lo  call  this  woiHtf 
man  our  own." 

Of  Mr.  Slowick  Carr  (1750},  it  is  said  that  he  was  a  moit 
excellent  magistrate,  and  first  established  the  cheese  /air,  awl 
rcf£ulatcd  the  markets,  weights,  and  measures.  To  titc  great  grief 
of  the  town,  he  died  during  his  mayoralty. 

During  the  mayoralty  of  Mr.  Stamford  Farrin,  1756-7,  there 
was  a  great  mob  in  the  town,  occasioned  by  the  high  price  at 
com,  and  by  the  conveying  of  flour  into  other  counties.  The 
rioters  assembled  opposite  the  mayor's  house,  in  Mercer's  Row, 
and  broke  his  windows.  The  soldiers  nvre  called  out.  and  for- 
tunately the  mob  dispersed  in  much  alarm  when  a  volley  was  fired 
over  their  heads. 

It  was  under  the  rule  of  Robert  B,itaam,  mayor  in  ijt$-6, 
that  "the  antienl  custom  of  having  Plumb  cakes  at  the  Mayor's 
choice  was  dropt,  to  the  vexation  of  many."  It  was  at  this  choice 
that  the  aiwembly  unanimously  agreed  that  henceforth  the  mayor« 
should  have  ^^50  annual  allowance  from  the  corporation  stock,  and 
not  receive  any  allowance  from  Uw  bailiffs. 

The  following  year  was  noteworthy,  as  being  one  of  the  few 
occasions  when  a  mayor  (Mr.  John  Davis)  vr^s  selected,  who  had 
not  previously  sen'ed  the  ofHce  of  bailiff. 

Owing  to  various  petty  disputes  and  jealousies  witli  regard  to 
the  annual  choice  dinner  or  feast  amongst  the  member?  of  the 
corporation,  it  wax  resolved  in  1796. — "That  in  future  members 
of  the  Common  Council  be  invited  to  dine  with  the  mayor  elect 
on  the  choice  day  of  a  mayor." 

It  was  determined  by  the  assembly  in  August,  1799,  to  allow 
tlie  mayor  £60  towards  the  expenses  of  scrying  hts  office,  and  it 
was  requested  that  the  mayor  and  bailiffs  ask  only  members  of 
the  corporation  *"  to  the  Choice  and  I'cast " 

Tlie  mayor's  allowance  in  1801  was  increased  to  jCioy  In  1803 
there  were  two  candidates  for  the  mayoralty,  Messrs.  Kirkham 
and  BiriUall:  the  poll  was  taken  by  ballot,  when  the  latter  wu 
elected. 

The  assembly  held  on  August  8th,  1805.  vras  presided  over  by 
the  mayor,  Mr.  FraiKis  l^ayes.  when  the  business  transacted  was 
unusually  varied  and  protraclrd.  At  its  concluKion  the  mayor 
Dominatcil  Mr.  Thomas  ArmBcld,  one  of  the  bailiffs,  as  hix  suc- 
cessor, and  he  was  duly  elected  to  take  oiBce  at  Michaelmas.     It 


CIVIC  fiOVRBSMENT  AND  STATE. 


41 


I 


kiiig  \tr«n  the  custom    for   the   mayor   elect    to   entertain    the 
■ratinn  on  the  day  ol  his  nomioalion,  which  day   was  termed 
*  the  choice,"  and  about  this  time  it  was  usual  for  Uie  enter- 
'tainmcni  to  take  the  term  ol  a  ball.     On   the   evening   of    Aufjust 

.  a  considerable  company  assembled  at  the  George  Inn,  to  celebrate 
beappointmentof  Mr  Armfield,  when  Mr.  Haycfi,  the  mayor  ihtm  in 
(to  use  the  words  of  ibe  order  book),  "dropped   down   as 

WHS  daturin^  and  instantly  died."  Another  assembly  was  twld 
on  August  23rd,  when  Mr.  Armlield  nominated  Mr.  Alderman 
Gibson  to  fill  the  mayor's  oflBce  for  the  brief  period  till  Michael- 
mas, and  he  was  duly  elected  and  sworn. 

!q  180S  the  mayor  (Thomas  Hall>  was  not  elected  until  seven 
others  had  refused  their  election,  and  respectively  paid  their  £10 
Unc.  Mr.  Hall  was  advanced  in  years,  and  had  already  scn'rd 
thfcc  times  AS  ma>-or,  namely.  1789,  17^  and  1795.  He  was  the 
only  one  of  the  old  mayors  who  ever  served  four  times,  subscqucot 
to  the  resolution  of  ijS^,  aad  shortly  after  the  romplction  of  his 
fourth  term  of  office,  the  assembly  presented  him  with  tlieir  formal 
thanks  "for  the  handsome  manner  in  which  he  had  consented  to 
serve  the  oBicc  t4  majror  last  year,  and  for  his  impartial  conduct 
thr[  '  :;  the  fourth  lime  of  his  serving  that  ofBce."  It  was 
fur:  iivcd  that  this  rcsolulion  be  entered  on  the   minutes   of 

the  bouse,  and  thai  a  copy  be  signed  by  the  town   cleric,    and   by 
him  presented  to  Mr.  Hall. 

Tlw  mayor's  allowance  was  increased  to  £130  by  the  assembly 
in  idoS,  whilst  it  was  ii^nifkantly  hinted  that  the  house  expected 
that  there  would  be  "  liberal  invitations  for  the  Choice  and  Feast." 

At  the  a&5en)bly  held  on  March  3jrd,  tSio,  Mr.  Alderman  Francis 

Osbora  ga*c  notice  that  he  should  mo^-e  at  the  next  assembly  for  a 

goU)  chain  to  be  worn  by  the  mayor  for  the  time  being  on  all  public 

1* ;  hut  when  the  house  met  00  Augu^l  9th  it  is  recorded  that 

._      '_    imm's  moiiin  .ihout  the  rh^ain  was  "adjourned  until  further 


If)  1813  a  motion  for  an  extta.  allowance  to  the  mayor  was  voted 
^upuD  by  ballot,  and  rcjccled. 

Mr.  William  Bro«n  was  unanimously  requested  to  serve  asatn  as 

ayor   in    August,   1814,  and  oa  his  owsenting  the  conjiiderably- 

ilcd  }: '  '  :'?230  was  voted  for  his  expenses  in  serving  that 

th--  ;;  year. 

in  Aufiuat,  i5i5,  ten  members  duly  nominated  and  elected  to 


4^ 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECOflOS. 


serve  as  mayor  were  successively  excused  on  payment  of  the  £to 
fine.  At  length  Mr.  William  Brown  consented  to  serve  a  third  time, 
on  condition  that  the  allowance  of  £220  was  repeated,  which  request 
was  unanimously  granted. 

In  August,  1821,  the  assembly  resolved  "that  there  be  a  Ball  00 
every  Mayor's  Choice  in  future,  and  that  next  Year  such  Ball  be  in 
the  Evening  of  the  choice  day.  and  that  this  Year  the  Ball  be  at  such 
time  as  the  Mayor  and  Bailiffs  may  think  proper." 

The  next  year  this  resolution  as  to  the  ball  was  altered  to  the 
"  evening  after  the  Feast  on  the  Mayors  Choice,  except  such  evening 
be  on  a  Saturday  or  Sunday,  and  then  on  the  Monday  after  the 
Feast." 

At  the  assembly  held  on  April  3rd,  1833,  the  town  cleric  (Mr. 
Jeycs)  "presented  to  the  Corporation  a  Gold  Chain  which  he  begged, 
their  acceptance  of  as  a  mark  of  the  kindneiss  which  he  has  at  all 
times  experienced  from  the  Corporation  which  Chain  the  Town  Clerk 
requested  mi^ht  be  in'orn  by  tlie  Mayor  for  the  time  being  on  ail 
public  occasions.*' 

At  the  August  assembly,  1824,  eight  members  were  successively 
proposed  as  mayors,  and  refusing  were  Bncd  ;t  10  each.  Eventually 
Mr.  James  Castcll  was  elected,  and  the  house  expressed  the  opinion 
that  it  was  desirable  to  increase  the  allowance  for  the  mayor  and 
bailiffs.  Xo  sooner  was  the  election  accomplished^  than  Mr.  Alder- 
man Holt  nioved  and  carried  th^t  all  the  lines  just  paid  by  the 
recalcitrant  members  be  restored  to  them,  thus  reducing  the  pro- 
ceedings to  a  farce.  At  the  next  assembly,  held  on  September  3rd^ 
Uie  house  ordered  that  the  mayor's  allowance  be  increased  to  ;£200, 
and  that  of  each  of  the  bailiffs  to  £26  5s. 

The  August  assembly  of  [S29  saw  a  like  scene,  for  on  that 
occasion  eight  members  of  the  house  were  duly  elected  and  succes- 
sively relieved  of  the  office  on  paying  the  £io  fine.  Eventually  Mr. 
John  Marshall,  Ihe  out-going  mayor,  was  re-elected,  and  consented 
to  act.  At  the  next  assembly  ^^150  additional  allowance  (making 
£3y>  in  all)  was  voted. 

In  August,  1831,  the  assembly  decided  to  dispense  with  the 
annual  ball  given  by  the  mayor  and  bailiffs ;  that  the  allowance  of 
Bfty  guineas  to  the  bailiffs  be  withdrawn  (leaving  them  to  take  the 
rent  of  the  Bailiffs'  Hook  Ai  heretofore) ;  and  that  the  mayor's 
allowance  be  reduced  to  j£i5o- 

It  is    rather    significant    that  the  minutes   of  the  last    August 


CIVIC  GOVERNMENT  AND  STATE.  43 

meeting  of  the  old  corporation  (1835)  are  chiefly  taken  up  with 
resolutions  as  to  the  "Choice  Dinner";  it  was  ordered  to  be  held 
as  usual  at  Mr.  Nippin's  at  the  Saracen's  Head  Inn,  and  paid  for  out 
of  the  corporation  funds.  Mr.  Charles  Freeman,  the  reforming 
chairman  of  the  1833  audit  committee,  was  appointed  mayor-elect. 

The  last  meeting  of  the  old  corporation  was  on  December 
24th,  1835 

Mayors'  Accounts. 

Separate  Mayors'  Accounts  for  each  year  begin  in  1676,  and 
consist  of  about  eight  leaves  folded  in  quarto.  They  are  twenty- 
eight  in  number;  the  last  one  is  for  1713  ;  those  for  1680,  1681,  16B3, 
1685,  1688,  i68g,  1699,  1710,  171 1,  and  1712  are  missing. 

As  an  example  of  the  nature  of  the  mayor's  accounts,  as  dis- 
tinguished from  those  of  the  chamberlain  or  treasurer,  it  has  been 
thought  well  to  reproduce  the  whole  of  the  accounts  for  1676-7.  It 
is  a  year  of  special  interest  because  of  the  Great  Fire  of  North- 
ampton. The  entries  as  to  the  visits  of  the  commissioners,  the 
chimney  tax  (remitted  by  the  king),  and  the  frequent  communications 
with  Lord  Northampton  and  their  member  Lord  O'Brian,  all  refer  to 
that  calamity : — 

The  accompt  of  Mr,  John  Frend  as  Mayor  of  Northampton  from  the  feast  of 
St.  Michael  1676  :— 

Imprs.  reed,  of  Martha  Bellwidd  for  her  Freedome    ...  

It.  reed,  of  John  Simpson  for  his  Freedome 

It.  reed,  of  Solomon  Bray  for  his  Freedome     ... 

It.  reed,  of  Samuel  Allen  the  2nd  payment  for  his  Freedome     ... 

It.  reed,  of  John  Woolslon  Apprentice  to  John  Knight 

It.  reed,  of  Thomas  Hoboy  Appr,  to  Rice  Mulliiier         .  . 

It.  reed,  of  Robert  Hunt  Appr,  to  Robert  Man  

It.  r*cd.  of  John  Marcey  Appr.to  Robert  Ives  senr. 
It.  reed,  of  John  Fox  Appr.  to  Tho.  Fox  his  father    ... 
It.  reed,  of  Jeremiah  Assaby  Appr.  to  William  Austen    ... 
It.  reed,  the  horse  race  money    ...  ...  .  . 

It.  reed,  of  Mr.  Knighton  upon  the  foot  of  his  Aceompt  due  to  the  towne 
It.  reed,  of  Tho.  Bishop  in  pt.  of  his  Freedome 

It.  reed,  of  Mr.  Percivall  in  pt.  of  his  Freedome  ...  ...  

It.  reed,  of  Edw.  Drury  in  full  for  his  Freedome  &  d'lred.  up  the  Bond 
It.  reed,  of  Robert  Sibley  for  pt.  of  his  Freedome  money 

It.  reed,  of  Wm.  jeffery  in  pt,  of  his  Freedome  .,,  

It.  reed,  of  George  White  in  pt.  for  his  Freedome  ...  

It.  reed,  of   George  Bennett  in  pt.  of  his  Freedome    ... 

II.  reed,  of  Maurice  Bird  for  the  like  


£■ 

s. 

d. 

10 

0 

0 

10 

0 

0 

10 

0 

0 

5 

0 

0 

0 

10 

0 

0 

10 

0 

0 

10 

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0 

10 

0 

0 

10 

0 

0 

10 

0 

3 

0 

0 

2 

3 

0 

2 

0 

0 

2 

□ 

0 

3 

0 

0 

2 

0 

0 

2 

0 

0 

2 

0 

□ 

2 

0 

0 

2 

0 

0 

44 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


It.  reed.  cA  John  Trotter  in  pt.  of  bi*  Freectame  inonCT        

It.  reed,  of  Mr.  Psit  and  Mrs.  Short  pi.  «(  th«  Fc«  PAmw  mwmy 

It.  tRcd.  of  Mr.  Wm.  Else  In  ditcbartiiB  of  hit  Acr^mpt.      

It.  reed,  of  Mr.  Jonai  WhtUon  upon  the  foot  «f  his  Accl.  due  to  je  towae 

It.  reed,  of  Mn.  Ventris  upon  composition  upon  the  death  a(  her  husband 

It.  reed,  of  Mr.  Fkrfd  in  pt.  pny  the  De>ne  and  Canona  o<  Windsor  ... 

It.  reed,  of  S:(mu«l  Scrtvcn  Arr««ii  of  R»n!    ... 

It.  reed,  of  John  Sibl«y  in  pt.  of  AmMrs  of  Rpni  

It.  ncd.  of  Mr.  Theo.  Whiaion  and  Mr.  Ed.  Ward  3  jn.  rent  for  Cotton 
Marsh  Moadowr      .,         ...         ...         ...         ... 

It.  reed,  of  Mr.  John  Tvigden  near,  for  Arrean  of  Rent...         

It.  reed,  ul  Juhn  Twijiden  jun.  hii  Con*ubIei  \t!vj  rend,  in  his  hands 

R«(rd.  upon  lh«  fout  of  Mr.  Howeiaecompt.  .,.  ,..  „. 

Rvcd.  of  Christopher  Hawkinf  pt.  of  his  Freedotne  money 

Pavhts,  bv  thw  Accohpt. 

Pajrd.  ai  the  Sacramt.  at  Sepulehers  „ 

&  at  Seal.  10  CL  of  the  PodCG  und  BajrIIffc      > 

Pd,  a  meoingcr  from  the  Comrc.  lo  Billinfr  to  I.d.  O'Brian       

Pd.  for  Ciirriaee  of  a  DcputnlJon  to  Browne  and  Cocker  to  Bristall 

Pd.  for  portage  of  (he  money  chest  from  Mr.  Knighton  to  the  hall 

Pd.  Wm,  Osmond  Ac  anolhet  watching  one  nighl  at  ball  to  Mcure  the 
money         

Pd.  Harr7  Dover  the  and  nieht       

Pd  the  Jury  fortheVernnlh  Fnqiievi  ., 

Pd.  John  Slamfoid  for  brinipng  dovnc  ihc  Comn.  for  Gaole  ddivcry  ... 

Pd.  Ed.  Lee  for  writcing  to  the  Ld.  oJ  Northton 

Pd.  OQver  for  earr^iiig  a  Coppy   of    hit    Ma"    gcL  of  Chimney  to  Mr. 
Geo-  Ctark  at  Weston 

Spent  on  Mr.  A.  Hawell  when  h«  brou^'ht  Ld.  O'Brieni  10"  for  )-e  Poore.. 

■6  Jan.  '76  Spent  al  Swann  upon  the  Com.  meeting  about  the  Church  and 

townceonccrnsal  ScM.  houae 

19  Jan.  Pd.  at  George  wajting  upon  the  Ld.  of  Northton  about  the  Church 

Pd.  a  mcMcnger  to  aeirerall  towns  to  desire  the  Comr«L  to  meeto  about  the 
Church      .,,         ..         

Pd.  Mr.  Robt.  Clerk  lowneCounsell  his  aalar^  

F«b.  X.    Pd.  Ed.  Lee  wrlLlng  4  copycs  of  the  Act  for  the  MiniUer  of 
AtlSta 

Given  to  the  Ld.  O'Briens  sermnta  when  «r«  wayled  on  him        

Pd.  rarT7ing  a  Cop^  of  (he  Act  10  v;  Ld.  

Pd  for  h«nc  hire  to  Ld  O'Bricc  for  my»cl(e  Mr.  Lee  and  R.  Sherwood 

Given  lo  the  Ld.  Notthlom  servanls  when  we  wayted  on  him  to  shew 
kim  a  Coppy  of  llu  Act  , 

For  faorx   hire  for  mjrtelfe  Mr.  Maasingbcd  Ur.    Spcaseft  Mr.  I.ee  and 
Samuel  Osmond       .,         ... 

sS  Feb.  76  Given  Mr.  Geo.  Clerks  ier%-ants  when  we  wayted  upon  him 
bcfiire  he  want  to  Parliamt         

And  for  horse  hire  for  myietfc  Mr,  Mauingbred  Mr.  Lee  and  one  of  the 
acrjii  ...         ••! 


£.   ^ 

d. 

1  0 

0 

SS  0 

0 

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0 

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0 

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0 

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0 

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0 

16  to 

0 

3  0 

0 

2  D 

0 

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4 

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6 

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0  0 

6 

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0 

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6 

0  0 

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J 


CIVIC  GOVERNMENT  AND  STATE. 

gFeb.  Spent  at  Swan  upon  the  Coms.  before  they  went  to  Parliament 

ipent  oD  Lord  Arlington's  gent's senrant  that  brought  iSo"... 

SiTCQ  John  Mercer  forwriteing  seveTall  tymes  to  Mr.  Pilkington 

Pd.  Mr.  Recorder  for  his  assistance  about  Mrs.  Ventris  bequest 

Pd.  Mr.  Morgan  the  like  

Pd.  Mr.  Picknter  (or  his  paines  ... 

Pd.  Mr.  Lees  for  his  paynes 

Pd.  Mr.  Fanner  for  his  assistance 

Pd.  Mr.  James  man  bringing  the  duplicate  of  the  tax  to  send  to  London 

Pd.  foe  Wyne  and  Beere  for  the  Coms.  at  severall  meetings  at  towne  hall 
as  by  particuler    ... 

Pd.  Wm.  Osmond  for  a  journey  to  London  to  the  Ld.  O'Brien  about  the  tax 

Pd.  Tho.  Briteman  (or  horse  hire  then 

18  March  77  Pd.  Dover  going  to  Dallington  and  Kingstborpe  to  get  hands 
to  Mr.  Massingberds  Deputation 

Pd.  Mr.  Barnes  mending  the  towne  seale   ...         ...         ...         

Fd.  Wm.  Osmond  a  Journey  to  London  about  the  Chimne3ra  

Pd. for  his  horse  hire...         

10  April  77  Pd  Mr.  Archer  writeing  to  the  Ld.  Chancellor  ... 

Pd.Mr.  Morgans  man  for  writings  about  Mrs.  Ventres  bequest  .. 

Pd.  at  Swan  when  Court  mett  about  towne  business  ... 

Spent  it  severall  tymes  about  Mrs.  Ventris  bequest        ...         

Spent  upon  Chiefs  Constables  bringing  Briefe  money  ...         

Sptntapon  Mr.  Fennis  about  Dr.  Conante  money 

N.  Mr.  Howes  horse  hire  for  severall  journeys  to  Ld.  Northton  Ld  O'Brien 
and  Mr.  Clerlce 

V  Ap.  77  Pd.  Tho.  Fitzhugh  and  Ed.  Frend  for  Wyne  to  Treatt  the  Ld. 
O'Brien  at  hall 

Pd.  Giles  Wingrave  mending  a  Lock  where  the  Coles  lay    ...         ...         ... 

PI  Wtn.  Osmond  for  a  Journey  to  Sr  Roger   Norwick    and    to    the 
Bellhanger  ...  ...  

Pd.Mr.  Barnes  mending  ye  Mace        ...         ...         

Pd.  Mr.  Biafield  for  15  Bottles  Clarrett  and    of  Sack  for  the  Coms.  at 
first  meeting  about  the  Tax  ...         ...         

GiTento  S' John  Holmans  servants  when  we  mett  the  Archdeacon  there 

about  the  Church      ...         ...         ...         ...         ...         

Pd,  Mr.  Carl  tor  a  Coppy  of  Mr.  Pilkingtons  gift 

17  Mij  Pd.  £or  horse  for  Mr.  Lee  to  Ld.  O'Brien  about  the  Tax     

31  Ma7  Pd.  for  carriage  of  18"  and  i  of  Bell  Mettall  sent  to  London  to 
Mr.  Massingberd  (or  a  tryall     ...  .  . 

aaM»y77pd.  Archer  for  writeing  to  the  Lord  Trer: 

"d.  Mr.  Knighton  to  pve  the  Ld.  O'Briens  servants  wayting  upon  Mr. 
Secretary  ...         ...         

Pd.  for  horae  hire  for  Mr.  Knighton  Mr.  Howse  Mr.  Rands  and  Mr.  Lee 

»  July  Pd.  for  horse  hire  for    Mr.  Lee  and  Wm.  Osmond  to  goe  to 

Ld.  O'Briens  in  the  night 

Pd.  lot  horse  hire  and  other  expenses  for  Mr.  Lee    goinge  to  S'.  Roger 

Norwich  to  Buy  Ketton  stone  

Pd.  Mr.  Recorder,  his  Salary  4  guineas         


45 

£■ 

s. 

d. 

I 

16 

6 

0 

a 

6 

0 

1 

6 

I 

0 

0 

I 

0 

0 

0 

10 

0 

0 

10 

0 

0 

5 

0 

0 

0 

6 

2 

16 

4 

I 

8 

0 

0 

9 

0 

0 

0 

6 

0 

I 

0 

I 

7 

6 

0 

9 

0 

0 

I 

0 

0 

3 

0 

0 

8 

0 

0 

3 

6 

0 

2 

0 

0 

0 

6 

060 

1  13  o 
004 

056 

O  3  O 

o  17  o 

060 
050 

o  I  6 

010 
o  1  o 

o  to  6 
046 

030 

030 
460 


46 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


Pd.  4  tabourwra  ineii>dint!  Ih«  hif[h«ray  to  Abbington  and  W.  Scriven**  raan 

Pd.  tbo  Clcikc  oS  Aviixe  (or  an  grder  nnmcly  Judge  Wydeham's  band 
lo  take  off   Imugk  .iboul  the  hij^hn-ay 

Given  to  s  poon  woman  and  her  childc  wnt  out  of  the  Feniu 

Pd.  Pvddlie    (or   h<jno    nad    his    owne    paiiica    to   cury    tbc   v-oman   to 
Preston  upon  the  hill  whcic  she  vrai  borne 

17  Au£  77.  Pd.  Wni.  Osmond  for  carrying  the  ordrr   10  be  banded  by 
Mt.  Geo.  Cleik  at  Wenton  about  i*.  per  h.    ... 

a$  Aug  Pd.  Ed.  Lee    tvi-Itint:   an    In.iEniment   to    Mttlc  Mr.  Smut'i  gift 
being  uad-ct  the  towne  scale   ...  

Pd.  thire  for  a  pint  of  Sack  for  Mr  Pilkinsrlon 

34  A«j  Given  S'.  Wra.  Fann«t'*  fcrv.mta  when  w«  wayicd  on  him 

99  Aug  Given  (he  Coachman  that  rarryed  me  with  Capt.  Wiilughb/    .., 

Pd  Sam.  Osmond's  horschire         » 

Pd,  to  tr««t«  the  Aldormen  of  Coveitlry  for   wjbo 

Pd.  Mr,  King  for  carriage  of  the  Ezcmpiification  of  the  Act 

Spent  upon  St.  Wm,  Farmec'i  iTcat.  for  bringing  i)ic  100"        

J  Sept.  Given  to  the  Ld.  Ch,  Justice  servant*  when  we  waited  on   Mm 

Pd.  for  the  cnppy  of  the  Privy  Scale's  carriage 

Pd.  for  a  bottle  of  Saric  and  (or  a  botle  of  Rheniah  wyoe  when  he  came 

to  towne  S'  Wm.  Firtner  ...         

Payd  Mitthiaa  Dawei'  ConoUblc  Bill      

Pd.  Mr.  White"*  ..  „  

Pd.  Mt.  Styles'  „  „ 

Pd.   Mr.  Rowell*  „ 

Pd.  for  Ljeltert  aa  by  particulars  ..         ...  

Pd.  for  PurvhiTient  and  wax  about  the  towtte  busjaesa 

Giv«n  at  several  tymei  to  pnasenf>»r«       

Pd.    when    Mr.   ScigcAnl,    Mr.    Wallace  and    Mr.    King  received    their 
Dcpuijition  for  the  Chimney  and  wriieings       ...  .., 

Pd.  Danl.  Whitehead  for  bringing  nn  old  book  of  the  Chimneyfl    .., 
Pd.  Mr.  Hunt  when  we  took  aS  the  mortgage  from  the  Mill*    .. 

Payd  Mr.  Agiitter  Mr.   Edivardi  and  Sam,   Osmund's  ctiatgei  paying  the 
same  at  Stamford  ,.  ,„ 

Pd.  for  horae  hire  , 

li  given  SamC.  Oaniond'g  paynea 

Payd  Saml.  Osmond  for  a  letter  carrying  lo  the  Ld.  Norlhloni 

Pd.  Mr.  Horlon  to  pay  the  Deanc  and  Chapter  of  Windsor  and  for  the 

Quietus    .  

Pd.  for  my  Journey  and  Mr.  Harris  to  London     

]  paid  a  Freeman  accotdlng  to  an  ancient  Order       ..,         ...         .„ 
Pd.  Mr.  Theoph.  Whiaton  due  to  him  ot)  the  lout  o(  hit  Accompt      ,„ 

Pd.  Ih*  hone  tare  money  to  the  Poote  on  St,  Thomaa  day. 

Dae  to  me  out  of  Mr.  Cheyaey's  gill 

tt  out  of  Mr.  Ptior't  gift 

Jk  out  of  Mr.  Ncale's  gift 

Pd.  for  perfecting  thia  Book  of  Accti ,         

Tberec"  of  Ihia  Accompt  are  Two  hundred  Kyitty  Three  Pounda  Pour 
Shillings  and  Fourpencc      ...         .„         ...         


£■   «■  i-U 

0    S    a| 

^1 
0    )    fi 

0      2     0 

0      3     $ 

0      0     $ 

0     3     5 

0    1    a 

1    0    0 

0    a    fi 

0    I    fl 

0    5    »' 

0    1    0 

010 

0  10    0 

0    a    Sm 

6     3     « 

0    6    e 

0  16   ofl 

1     6    «■ 

3    5    aM 

1     3    *'■ 

0    1     «-■ 

0  13   afl 

0    S   0 

0      I      D 

30O     0     0 

1    13     4! 

0  la   0 

0    3   «■ 

0    1    »'■ 

34     0    al 

340 

10    0    0 
4  17    ^ 
a    0   0 

040 

034 
034, 


CIVIC  COVERNMENT  ANU  STATE.  47 

_  £.  ^.  d. 

Kyn<*  arc  Tw«  hdfutred  Njrnlf  Nyoe  Pounds  PourUen  ShilEnga  and 

Fourp«n4r«  ... ...  999  14    4 

?aytD"  Wing  (he  ereatci  a«me  there  rcmaiiu  due  to  tlie  Actompl  Six 

Pounds  Ten  Shillirtjca  6  to    O 

Baitle  Maniny  Mayor 
Rkh.  Wbiie 
Rich  Mautngbcrd 

]olin  Br4ficld 

Ri:  Rand* 


'Witliii  Speascr 
Tho:  Attfrbnry 
Theo :  Whiston 
Willi:  Elie 
Dante)  Pool« 
Wi'llm  Aguti«r 

The  following  arc  a.  few  of  the  more  noteworthy  entries  in  the 
subsequent  years  of  these  separate  accounts:  — 

lt]S    Pajd  Henrjr  Dav«r  and  Wm.  Otmoed  for  ^ing  into  Country  to 

pforur*  »cnn«  JoRicM  10  mslu  a  Sauton*  ...010 

P4- fcraa  Act.  c<  Pailiaoieni  forObMivBtloD  of  the  Lord'iday  o    O  lO 

VHttti  hade  al  Sack  lo  drinh  with  the  Ld.  O'Brien  wh«D  b«  wrot«  tft  the 

E,  of  P«t«rbro  ...  ..  o     a     o 

?ilo(  1  bottlM  of  Sack  fat  S'.  John  Holman  and  Mr.  Stedman  at  Siran 

meeting  about  a  Petition  i«  the  Bp.  of  l.yncolric      ...         ...  040 

M-  I m«natig«r  from  S'.  Rogitr  Monvich  about  tlarborow  Belli    ...  016 

ChniRobt.  Motion  a  Kih!i<TO(  Cafil.Willughtiy*  tick  tent  away  by  >  pasK  026 

W.  im  Mawppr  that  brought  3  PtocUmatlona      o    5    O 

"/itarjM  lo  London  in  April  with  Samuvl  Otmond  in  obieyning  Iha 

timber  and  getting  an  order  far  the  goeing  on  of  the  Cniiicb  500 

M.«bm  llMjesiiiiB'  Hooks  were  cairicd  to  London  lo  one  of  bii  Ha" 

Off««n 040 

GtRntoihe  DidMnded  Soldiers  at  several  times...         ...         ...         ...  otoo 

'^  N  lor  4  bottles  of  Sack  at  3  payments  of  Or.  Conant      080 

'^  N*.  Buekby  hit  fee  abovt  tho  Robery  and  a  bottle  of  Sack   ...  o  la    <» 

'ilw  the  Coach  when  1  went  to  Ld  Northampton's  to  be  sworae    ...  o  16    o 

'^Stri'-,  Buckby  hit  salary  as  Recorder  in  Coincyi       ...         ...         ...  460 

*>biiaebadd  money,  told  it  for  9*  and  lout  us      O  tt     o 

'^  Pd.  u  London  for  the  King'i  watrant  about  the  new  Charter  and 

other  foo      .     to    o    o 

»SfM  «^  the  CommtMioitMra  of  the  Chimsey  moo^  M  Pueoek,  Mr. 

Lea  being  there 040 

^(whonehire  to  Loadoa  10  swear  Ld.  Petetbrow  Recorder 170 

■^Mwlor  our  hones  and  oBrtelee      3  10    o 

''•  &iiL  Badtby  (m  drawing  the  Adrme  to  the  KinE 116 

^MMvctall  Ijmes  to  poore  people  and  trarellors I     a    a 


* 


Amongst  the  corporation  books  is  a  folio  volume  of  mayors'  and 
chunberAaina'  accounts.  The  mayors'  accounts  come  first,  and 
e»teid,  with  a  (ew  gaps,  over  the  period  from  1690-1  to  1744-3- 
Aaothei  M\a  volume,  confined  solely  to  the  mayors'  accounts,  carries 
theie  tttanu  on  f roiD  1745-6  to  1835. 


X  -3 


.TS 


S:   3 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RBCORDS. 


The  receipts  in  the  mayors'  accounts  are  mainly  from  admissions 
to  the  freedom  of  ihc  borough,  from  the  fee  farm,  and  from  certain 
lands  originally  specially  assigned  for  the  mayor's  benefit.  The 
expenditure  usually  includes  a  variety  of  drinking  treats  and  vails  to 
servants,  as  well  as  payments  for  messengers,  letters,  petitions,  acts 
of  parliameiit,  legal  books,  etc. 

Two  entries  that  occur  for  many  years  arc  ten  shillings  each  for 
dinners  lo  the  jury  of  the  Vcrnall's  inquest,  and  to  the  jury  of  the 
clerk  of  the  market.  Subsequent  reference  will  be  made  to 
VemalVs  inquest.  In  1736  one  of  the  beadles  got  £1  for  sweep- 
ing the  mayor's  doorstep,  and  henceforward  that  became  an 
annual  payment.  Tlie  position  of  the  mayor  as  clerk  of  the  market 
and  as  eschcator  is  briefly  considered  in  the  next  section. 

It  is  curious  to  notice  in  many  cases  how  expenses  grew  as  time 
went  on.  For  many  years  the  dinner  at  sessions  is  entered  at  the 
modest  sum  of  2s.:  but  about  1712  it  is  increased  to  2os,  and  then 
to  30S,;  in  1730  it  reached  the  sum  of  £3;  in  1739,  £3^i.^.  in  1740, 
j^^  19s.  6d. :  and  in  1 7+2,  £^  6s.  6d 

In  1745-6,  the  opening  year  of  the  last  book  of  mayors'  accounts, 
the  receipts  (chiefly  from  freedoms)  vrere  ;£iOj  2s.  7d.,  and  the 
expenditure  /107  4s.  3d. 

With  regard  cc  the  mayor's  alLowajice,  to  which  so  many  votes  of 
the  assembly  previously  quoted  have  referred,  this  last  book  of 
accounts  shows  the  following  curious  fluctuations  : — 17451  ^^30;  1765, 
£5^'-  '783.  £Soi  i7yy,  £bo;  1801,  £105;  1H03,  £126:  1806,  O:^; 
i8i4,3C22o:  1816, /iso;  1818,  ^^aao;  1819,  £130;  1824,  £«»;  18*9, 
/■350 :  1830,  j£2oo. 

The  "  choice  dinner  "  for  1800  cost  j^i?!  8s.  8d 

On  dark  nights  it  was  the  custom  for  the  mayor  to  be  preceded 
by  a  lantern  bearer  carrj'ing  a  large  ornamental  lantern  on  a  pole, 
on  those  occasions  when  he  might  be  out  on  official  business.  In 
167 1  a  shilling  was  paid  for  repairing  "  the  mayor's  gtcatc 
lanthomc  " ;  a  new  pole  was  provided  and  painted  at  a  charge  of 
IS.  gd.  in  1703.  tn  1748  123.  was  paid  for  "a  new  Corporatioo 
Lanthom."  In  1773  "painting  the  Mayor's  Lanthorn"  cost  is.  6d. ; 
a  like  charge  was  incurred  in  1777. 

Court  of  the  Mayor  and  Aldebmen. 

The  mayor  and  aldermen,  or  past  mayors  of  Northampton,  besides 
forming  an  integral  part  of  the  assembly  or  common  council,  also  sat 
apart  for  sessions  of  their  own,  which  were  usually  called  the 


court    fl 


CIVIC    OOVERNMKNT  AND  STATE. 


49 


mayor    and  his  brethren,  or  the  court  of  the   mayor  and 
nnen- 

Thcir  chief  administrative  powers,  apart  from  the  rest  of  the 
council,  were  the  exercise  of  patronage  in  the  case  of  corporation 
officials,  the  appointment  to  vacancies  in  the  forty-eight,  the  removal 
and  fining  of  all  members  of  the  council  for  misbehaviour  or  incom- 
petence, the  administration  of  a  variety  of  charities,  and  the 
important  privilege  of  fixing  the  day  and  hour  for  the  meeting  of 
Ibe  assembly.  Latterly  the  voting  of  pensions  to  themselves  or  to 
^^fte  widows  of  late  aldermen  was  one  of  the  duties  that  this  court 
^bnuned. 

^B     As  to  patronage,  this  was  now  and  aj;ain  a  source  of  dispute 

between   the  aldermen   and   assembly,   and   the  latter  occasionally 

asserted  itself  in  a  ri^marlcahle  manner.     It  also  changed  somewhat 

under  diflerv^nt  charters.     It  will  be  best,   therefore,  to  give   lists 

of    the   annual  appointments  made  at  Michaelmas  solely    by  the 

yor  and  aldermen  in  a  certain  number  of  years,  during  the  period 

ith  which  we  are  mainly  concerned  in  this  volume.     In  1584  they 

intcd  chamberlain,  two  justices,  four  coroners,  four  auditors, 

constables,  ten  thirdlxproughs,  and  the  warden  of  St.  Thomas' 

pital ;  in  1600,  four  coroners,  6ve  auditors,  two  key-keepers,  and 

the  constables    and   thirdboroughs    for  each   ward;    in    1628,   four 

coroners,  six  auditors,  two  chamberlains,  a  warden  and  two  masters 

j^^f    St.   Thomas,  the  consLihles    and    thirdboroughs.  two   ronduit* 

^Btasters.    and    four  searchers  for  unwholesome  flesh  and  fowl ;    in 

^■745.  the  coroner,  warden  and  master  of  St.  Thomas,  the  constable$, 

two  sealers  of  leather,  two  tasters  of  flesh  and  fowl,  and  the  auditors  ; 

and  in  T819,  two  coroners,  chamberlain,  warden  of  St.  Thomas,  two 

,      flesh  and  fowl  tasters,   two  searchers  and  sealers  of  leather,    the 

cooatables,   the  receiver  erf  rents  of  tolls  and  butcher  stalls,   the 

general  treasurer,  the  recwver  of  town  rents,  and  other  receivers  of 

^special  rent*. 

^H  Id  addition  to  these  annual  appointments,  the  mayor  and 
aldermen  also  elected  (for  life  or  good  behaviour)  tlie  town  clerk  and 
town  attorney,  the  steward,  the  macebearer,  four  sergeants,  hall 
y  keeper,  town  crier,  sexton  of  All  Saints,  and  two  beadles. 
^B  Oo  May  17th,  1630,  it  vfis  ordered  "  that  the  Maior  and 
^1  Aldermen  shall  meete  evcric  Thursday  fortnight  at  Hall  immcdiatlie 
■  alter  the  lecture  from  llie  Church  to  the  Hall  for  halfc  an  houre 
and  funhei  as  occasion  shall  serve  to  consult  about  public  affaires 

B 


50 


NORTHAMPTON   BOROUGH   RECORDS. 


upon  paiiie  of  forfyture  of  xij'  a  piece  to  the  chamber  to  be  Icricd 
by  distrcs  at  Mr.  Maiors  disrrclion  Irotn  tymc  to  tyme  " 

The  regular  brief  minute  books  of  the  aldermen's  court  begin  in 
1694.  and  the  Hrst  volume  ends  in  fjji.  The  subjects  on  which 
resolution!!  were  passed  were  the  voting  o(  money  (in  sums  varying 
from  twenty  shillings  to  five  pounds)  to  parents  for  apprentices  ;  the 
appointments  and  removals  of  sergeants  -,  the  Riling  up  of  vacancies 
in  ttic  lorty-eiglit  who  were  sworn  before  them  -,  tbn  appointments 
and  duties  of  town  crier  and  sexton ;  the  repairs  of  Wood  hill  and 
Corn  hill  out  of  the  tolls  which  they  administered ;  instructions  to 
the  chantbc-rlain  as  to  the  paving  of  channels  ;  market  dues  and 
regulations ;  the  removal  of  those  of  the  corporation  who  had  left 
the  town,  or  become  infirm ;  the  fixing  of  dates  for  the  assembly ; 
the  61ling  up  of  vacancies  in  the  several  almshouses  and  the  laaer- 
house;  and  appointing  to  temporary  vacancies  among  the  constables. 

The  regular  meetings  of  last  century  were  usually  held  about 
twice  aycar,  but  oftener  as  occasion  required.  The  aldermen  often 
met  at  the  town  hall  or  guildhall,  but  not  infrequently  at  inns. 
This  meeting  of  the  aldermen  at  licensed  houses  doubtless  accounts 
for  their  considerable  expenditure  on  wine,  on  which  we  have  com- 
mented elsewhere.  Between  1694  and  1771  they  met  often  at  the 
Rose  and  Crown,  and  occasionally  at  the  Red  Lion,  Peacock,  and 
the  Golden  Lion,  On  one  occasion  the  as-iembly  of  the  aldermen 
was  held  at  Mr.  Brian  Aliston's  house,  who  was  at  that  time 
maccbearer ;  but  a  more  singular  meeting  place  was  at  "  Mr. 
Cliadwicks'  at  the  Oaole."  Coflee-houseii  had  by  this  time  become 
well  established  in  Northampton,  and  we  (ind  thai  the  aldermen 
met  ofTicially  at  "the  Bayliffs'  coffee-house,"  and  at  the  coffee- 
houses which  belonged  respectively  to  Saunders,  William  Higgs. 
and  John  Baylis.  Yet  one  more  place  of  meeting  may  be  named, 
and  that  is    "  Mr.  Mayor's  House." 

In  1719-20  there  was  a  curious  dispute  as  to  the  pension 
aiisigned  to  Alderman  Green  from  the  corn  tolls. 

On  October  30th,  1719,  the  corporation  ordered  that  Alderman 
James  Green  should  cease  to  receive  the  corn  tolls  of  the  town  ; 
that  these  tolls  should  be  taken  and  received  by  Robert  Watts^ 
sexton  of  All  Saints ;  that  Robert  Watts  should  pay  Alderman 
Green  every  Saturday  night  4s.  out  of  these  tolls;  and  thai  if 
Alderman  Green  accept  this  pension  that  he  cease,  by  reason 
thereof,   to   be   a  member    of  the  corporation.     On    March   20th, 


I 


CIVIC    GOVERNMENT    AND    STATE.  5I 

1719-20,  it  was  "  ordered  that  Alderman  James  Green  (whose 
weekly  allowance  out  of  the  profits  arising  from  the  Toles  of  the 
Com  has  for  some  time  past  beene  stopt  for  his  abuses  towards 
Mr.  Mayor  and  others)  doe  receive  and  be  paid  four  shillii^s 
weekly  from  this  date  until  the  contrary  be  ordered,  and  that  the 
said  Mr.  James  Green  notwithstanding  his  receiving  such  weekly 
allowance  as  pension  doe  act  as  an  Alderman  and  Member  d 
this  Coporation  in  all  points  and  respects  as  heretofore  he  hath 
done,  any  former  order  to  the  contrary-  notwithstanding.'' 

Mr.  Green's  case  came  up  again  before  the  mayor  and  aldermen 
on  September  30th,  1720,  when  they  ordered  that  their  pensioned 
colleague  was  constantly  to  give  his  attendance  at  all  assemblies  and 
public  meetings  about  corporation  or  ton'n  business,  and  was  always 
for  the  future  "  to  vote  as  the  Mayor  for  the  t>'me  being  shall  vote 
on  all  Ellection  and  other  Occasions  whatsoe%-er '  "  To  secure  his 
vote  it  was  further  ordered  that  the  ver)'  first  time  he  voted  against 
the  mayor,  his  pension  would  cease !  ! 

The  second  book  of  minutes  extends  from  1771  to  1797.  Several 
resolutions  are  entered  as  to  fixing  the  hour  and  day  frf  the 
assemblies.  It  is  interesting  to  note  that  it  was  frequently 
arranged  that  the  assembly  should  be  held  directly  after  morning 
prayer  on  Wednesday  or  Friday.  Other  resolutions  cover  almost 
precisely  the  same  ground  as  those  contained  in  the  first  bock.  The 
meetings  were  held  for  the  most  part  a:  the  giJilchail  :  but  the 
aldermen  met  nine  times  at  the  George,  and  seven  times  at  the 
Angel. 

Bailiffs. 
The  original  charter  of  Northampton  of  118^  contams  no  .mention 
of  the  bailiffs,  but  eleven  years  later  John's  charter  provided  lor  the 
annual  election  of  a  reeve  or  mayor  at  Michaelmas,  and  at  the  same 
time  empowered  the  common  council  of  the  town  or  the  assembly 
to  choose  two  of  the  more  lawful  and  discreet  burgesses  to  well 
and  faithfully  keep  the  recveship.  Tliese  two  special  burgesses  or 
bailiffs  were  to  be  permanent  appointments  during  good  conduct, 
and  then  only  removable  by  the  common  council.  The  bailiffs 
then,  according  to  the  original  charter  intention,  were  intended 
to  act,  by  their  permaneacv'.  as  a  check  on  the  annually-elected 
reeve,  in  fact  as  a  kind  of  second  chamber.  The  bailiffs  had, 
on  appointment,  to  proceed  to  London  to  take  their  oaths  before 
the  king^s  chief  juaice. 

E  2 


s* 


NORTHAMI'TON  OOKOUGH  RECORDS. 


The  appointing  of  Uvo  b»ililf.s  as  a  permanency  continued  t( 
the  rule  at  Northampton  for  just  about  a  centurj-.     A  change  i 
with   Edward  [.  charter  of  1299,    By  this  charter  the  two  bailifFs 
were  to  be  elected  annually  by  the  assembly  at  Michaelmas,  at  the 
sam?    time   as  the   mayor,    and   the   visit   to    London  to   lake  the; 
oath  was  henceforth  only  expected  of  the  mayor. 

By  the  charter  of  idr8  the  bailifTs  were  to  be  chosen  exclusively 
from  the  company  of  the  forty -eight  :    this  had  probably  been  the' 
custom  since  14S9,  but  had  not  till  then  been  expressly  laid  down. 

Many  an  old  corporate  town  of  England  was  under  the  local 
rule  of  two  buitiffs,  without  any  mayor,  up  to  the  lime  of  Elizabeth, 
but  there  were  vcr\-  few  that  were  considered  of  sufficient  im- 
portance to  share  with  Northampton  the  exceptional  privilege  of 
having  at  the  same  time  three  ^uch  important  officials  as  a  mayor 
and  two  bailiffs.  It  is  but  one  of  the  many  signs  of  the  exceptional 
importance  of  the  town  of  .Northampton. 

In  1555  it  is  recorded,  in  the  minutes  of    the  assembly,  that  itj 
"  pleasyd  god  to   take    into  his    mercy   VViIlm    Elyot   one   of   the 
balluys  of  the  towne  who  dwellytl  at  the  signe  of  the  George  and 
sold  wync,  upon  whose  sole  god  have  mercy,  amen."     The  assembly 
Wis  summoned  on  April  ^nd  to  elect  EJyot's  successor,  when  John 
Brightwcn,  chandler  and   ironmonger,  was  eventually  chosen,  duly! 
elected,  and  sworn  into  office  as  bailiff.     The  choice  of  the  assembly, , 
however,  Krst  fell  upon  John  Gratwood,  dwelling  at  the  sign  of  tfaej 
Helmet,  iiinholder,  but,  for  his  "  folyshe  obslinacye  and  refusing  of 
the  balwywick  and  also  for  trobljTig  of  the  same  assemble  so  godly 
acconipanycd  together,"  was  Bned  j^to. 

At  the  same  assembly  John  Estrigg,  "hilliar"  (tiler),  was  dis- 
charged of  the  office  of  bailiff  by  reason  of  his  old  age  and  impotenc}', 
he  paying  a  fine  of  £b. 

It  was  ordered  in  1566  that  the  bailiffs  were  yearly  at  their 
own  cost  to  procure  a  sufficient  quietus  est  for  the  payment  of  the 
fee-farm,  and  to  exhibit  this  quittance  before  the  mayor  and  hts 
brethren  at  tlie  first  court  day  held  in  the  guildhall  at  the  end  of 
Easter  term  next  following  the  discharge  of  their  office,  under  a 
penalty  o(  £5. 

The  assembly,  in  1569,  ordered  that  the  bailiffs  for  the  time 
being  were  every  year  to  deliver  up  to  the  mayor  their  register 
book  "for  the  sale  and  talc  of  horsys  and  marcs  accord inge  to  the 
statute,"  within  fourteen  days  after  Michaelmas,  upon  pain  of  sos. 


CIVIC    COVF.RNMr.NT    AND    STATE. 


53 


in  ordinance  of  1599  provided  that  four  of  IHom:  who  had  l)«en 

lilifli  were  lo  sit  with  llic  mayor  as  assistants  cvcrj'  court  day  in 

guildhall    (together  with  two  aldermen),    and  to  remain    until 

tbe  court  n-as  closed.     Due  summons  lo  the  court  was  lo  be  served 

ihe  tnajvr's  scrjeant,  and  any  hailiff  making  default  was  to  pay 

fine  of  1 2d. 

Daring  the  Commonwealth,  the  bailiffs  had  important  duties 
to  them  in  connection  with  the  share  of  keeping  watch 
ward  and  superintending  the  repairs  of  the  wails.  For  tlie 
li&  and  other  town  fortifications,  the  bailiffs  were  always  held 
responsible.  Tlie  bailiffs  were  also  responsible  for  the  due  payment 
3f  the  fee-farm  rent.  Various  other  particulars  with  regard  to 
and  other  duties  of  the  bailiffs  will  be  found  under  other 
licaiiings. 

At  the  assembly  in  August,  1713,  three  duly  nominated  bailiffs 
fus«d  to  serve,  and  were  each  fined  j^io. 

In  1724  the  assembly  interfered  to  stop,  under  pain  of  prose- 
ation,  the  custom,  used  by  the  two  bailiffs  for  the  time  being,  of 
Uciaising  strangers  and  foreigners  to  hawk  the  town  with  goods 
and  merchaodise  to  their  own  advantage,  and  also  of  "contracting 
id  agreeing  with  Empyricks  Quack  Doctors  and  Mountcbankfi  to 
trrd  and  set  up  Stages  in  this  town  which  by  experience  has  been 
jnd  to  be  prejudicial  to  the  Markets." 
The  arrangements  of  the  fairs  and  markets  were  usually  in  the 
ituada  ol  the  bailiffs;. 

One  of   the  more  important  functions  of  the  town  bailiffs  was 

Mr  acting  either  personally,  or  through  properly  appointed  servants 

beadles,  to  execute  the  precepts  and  warrants  of  the  local  justices, 

<  arrest  for  debt,  and  to  act  in  all  ca.ses  in  which  sherifTs  bailiffs 

rere  the  proper  officials  outside  their  jurisdiction.     The  records 

i  witness  to  various   attempts  on   the  part  of  the  county  to 

the  privileges  of  the  borough. 

In   the  beginning  of  the  reign    of  James    I.  the    sheriffs  of  the 

countjr    frequently    encroached    upon  the  charter   liberties  of   the 

townsmen  of  Northampton.      About  thr  year  1610  the  corporation 

led  to  the  county  justices  in  quarter  sessions  to  clieck  these 

tioo.t  actions.    The  justices  were   readily  convinced  that  the 

.Is.    whether    -iheriff,   magistrates,    or    bailiffs,  had   no 

.    .vtthin  the  borDugh,  and  instructed  Mr.  Gage,  the  clerk 

the  peace,  to  enroll  the  Northampton  charter  at  large  for  their 


54 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


future  guidance,  for  which  enrolment  the  corporation  paid  the  cleT 
of  the  peace's  fee  of  £\  r3«.  4d. 

Within,  however,  a  brief  space  of  time  sherifPs  warrAnts  we« 
again  served  upon  several  freemen  resident  wilhin  the  liberties  of 
Northampton,  and  their  goods  and  chattels  seized  by  the  county 
baiUHs  for  noci -payment  uf  certain  fines  enforced  by  quarter  sessions. 
This  naturally  roused  the  wrath  of  the  corporation,  and  at  an  ■ 
asscfmbly  held  on  April  2oth,  i6i2,  it  was  ordered  that  Ga^c  should 
be  forthwith  presented  for  this  damage  at  the  charge  of  the 
chamber  in  the  way  these  counsel  shall  advise,  as  "the  saide  Oz^ 
IS  the  onelie  means  whereby  the  corporation  is  molested." 

In  the  following  year  a  still  greater  indignity  was  done,  for 
Christopher  Young,  one  of  the  Serjeants  to  the  mace  of  the  bailiffs, 
was  arrested  by  Richard  Lambe,  a  sheriff's  officer,  "  by  vertae 
of  an  ordinarle  Capias  ad  satis/aci'endfim."  For  this  intrusion  the 
assembly  ordered  that  Lambe  should  be  forthwith  sued,  according 
to  the  advice  of  counsel. 

Great  complaint  was  made  in  1636  of  the  intrusion  of  the  sheriff 
and  his  bailiffs  into  the  liberties  of  the  town,  by  using  processes 
and  cxcuting  diverse  other  oRiccs  contrary  to  charter.  The  assembly 
ordered  the  legal  prosecution  of  the  sheriff  for  the  next  offence 
In  1650  [he  assembly  ordered  the  immediate  prosecution  of  the 
sheriff  by  the  town  attorney  tor  an  offence  of  this  character.  In 
1677  the  sheriff's  bailiffs  were  sued  for  an  unlawful  arrest  within 
the  liberties ;    and  this  action  was  repeated  in  1692. 

The  following  order  was  made  by  the  assembly  on  May  lOth, 
1722  ;— 

Tliat  the  next  time  the  Sheriff  of  lk«  Couniy  or  any  of  hii  Bailiffs  ot  OSk»n 
•ball  piMumc  to  arr«st  any  person  or  ponon*  •riihin  Ihc  Lib«ciyi  of  tlili 
Corporation  upon  any  Writ  or  Proret*  intuing  out  of  th«  County  above  (unleu  it 
It  be  upuii  i  Son  Dlmittai)  without  first  a±liin£  and  obtaining  Leare  for  thst 
purpOM  from  the  Bntliff«  of  the  Cofporalion  for  th«  time  b<iing  That  upon  the 
DiKoraty  ihereof  an  Action  be  lotthwitli  ttrauKhi  a^drst  the  perton  or  pcesou 
oSendinK  herein  at  tb«  Cwiporation  Ctisrfe  in  9ucb  mnnner  n  Mr.  D'Anven  the 
Deputy  Recorder  shall  adviw." 

On  the  24th  August,  1728,  one  of  the  ofBccrs  of  the  high  sheriff 
of  the  county,  without  the  consent  or  privity  of  the  bailiffs  of  the 
corporation,  made  a  distress  on  the  goods  of  Richard  Bradshaw,  a 
freeman  and  inhabitant  of  Northampton,  at  hix  dwelling-house 
there,  (or  not  appearing  in  the  sheriff's  court  upon  a  summons  to 


I 


CIVIC   GOVERNMENT    AND   STATE. 


55 


to  a  small  debt.  It  was  further  alleged  that  the  oAicer 
Mnlolcrably  insoleot  and  abusive  when  he  took  distress,  and 
tered  very  disrespectful  words  of  the  corporation.  The  assembly 
^~~took  the  opinion  of  their  deputy  recorder,  Mr,  Cuthbert,  whether 
thu  cotidiict  of  the  sherifi's  officer  was  not  a  direct  violation  of  the 
charter  of  Charles  II,,  and  sufficient  to  ground  an  action  upon; 
they  further  inquired  if  an  action  will  lie.  whether  the  sume  must 
be  brought  against  the  sheriff  or  his  officer,  and  whether  the  same 
be  begun  in  the  name  of  the  mayor,  bailiffs  and  burgesses,  or  in 
Uk  name  of  the  two  bailiffs  who  were  in  office  when  the  distress 
was  nude? 

I^K      Mr.  Cuthbert's  opinion  was  a-i  follows  : — 

^^  I  appnhvod  l)t*t  y*  ultins  of  «  Diilreu  by  y'  ShertfPt  CMBctr  in  msnnep  a« 
abow  t»  in  Infhngfn«M  upon  t*  Libcnya  of  y*  Corpontion.  I  think  an  action  on 
jr*  OIK  will  Ifc  fm  inttinpng  upon  and  distaibln};  of  y*  Mayor  BailUIs  and 
i^flai|,fii  I  in  J*  eajoynriFn!  of  tl>«ir  IranchiM,  and  that  the  afilon  mutt  bo  brought 
^Mi  7*  oaiac  at  y  Mayor  Baltlils  and  BarKcna  of  the  town*  of  Nonhampton  and 
^BiCSltiat  y*  ttKett  ttuW  nccuttd  y*  s4nw.  ind  if  y*  Sheriff  will  own  ihni  bo  gave 
^Bfciflt  nrdnr  lo  axvcnte  it.  be  may  and  otghi  to  be  .«  parly. 

1b  1785  the  court  of  aldermen  fined  the  bailiffs  5s.  each  for 
af^aring  in  aii5«mb)y  without  their  bailiffs'  gowns,  and  another 
5$.  each  fur  refusing  In  go  in  procession  from  the  guildliall  lo  the 
lurch  with  (he  mayor.  Hall's  .MS,  explains  that  what  he  terms 
(ir  spirited  conduct  came  about  through  their  being  chosen  against 
ir  consent 

The    year  after  the  granting  of    the  new  charter   (1797).  the 

Fasscmbly  rxperienced  considerable  difficulty  in    5nding  a  second 

liltf!.    tJn  the  mayor-ch-'ct  propuhing  Mes!;rs.  Catiern  and  Hall  as 

ti»  bailifb,  the  former  was  duly  elected,  but  the  tatter  proposed 

If.  Hillyard-     The  show  of  hands  was  in  favour  of  Mr.  Hall,  who 

rfused,  and  placed  jf^io  in  tlie  hands  of  the  mayor  to  be  excused. 

lercupoo  the  mayor  proposed  Mr.  Levi,  and  Mr.  Levi  nominated 

Ir.  Dunkley,  but  the  majority  of  the  hands  were  in  favour  of  Mr. 

^vi,  who  refusing  the  office  paid  £10  to  the  mayor.     After  Messrs. 

SutlOD,  Freeman,  and  Cooch  had  all  been  respectively  nominated 

and  elected,  and  excused  on  the  several  payment  of  £10,  Mr.  John 

Gilx/n    arvrpled    thi;  ofTice      These    proceedings    Listed    for  two 

in-     In    [S03  four  nominated  and  electetl   bailiffs   paid  the  £10 

her  than  serve. 


S6 


NORTHAMPTOH    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


The  bailiffs  were  allowed,  in  ij^g,  £5  each  towards  the  expenses 
oi  their  office,  exclusive  of  the  produce  of  the  rent  of  a  meadow  called 
"  Bailiffs'  Hook."  The  bailiffs'  allowance  was  increased  in  t8oi  to 
£21  each;  such  sum  to  include  any  rents  they  received.  Bailiffs' 
Hook  was  a  large  river  meadow,  on  the  Cotton  side  of  the  south 
bridf;e<  to  the  south-east  o(  the  town. 

The  Chamberlains  and  their  Accounts. 

The  chief  function  of  the  chamberlain  was  the  keeping  of  the 
genera!  accounts  of  the  town — an  office  that  eventually  became 
absorbed  in  that  of  the  treasurer. 

In  asMxriation  with  the  name  of  tliis  official,  it  is  of  interest  lo 
notice  that  at  Northampton  the  orders  of  the  assembly  usually  refer 
to  tlie  common  purse  of  the  town  by  the  name  of  "the  cliambrr." 
Camera  was  a  term  frequently  usird  in  low  Latin  to  si);iii£y  a  chest 
or  box.  as  well  as  a  small  private  apartment  or  chamber. 

The  common  chest  or  town  treasury  had  two  keys,  one  of  which 
was  kept  by  tlic  mayor,  aiid  the  other  by  the  chamberlain  for  the 
time  being. 

On  one  of  the  earlier  pages  of  the  irregularly-kept  first  volume 
of  the  orders  of  assembly,  are  entered  the  accounts  of  the  town 
chamberlain  for  the  year  1554,  of  which  the  following  is  a  verbatim 
transcript  :— 

Tlie  BcanptLi  nf  Wtllm  tiarpoll,  chamberlBjn  in  the  finl  jere  of  quene  Maije 
A'  I5S4. 

The  Sejde  Willm  brlngtlh*  in  acomple  of  all  the  Recejples  coroeti  to  hft 
bondo  u  hy  hy>  boohe  ft  m»y  apdrc  of  iilj"  x'  iij*  (£9o  loa.  3d.)  whereof  h* 
dothe  aike  allowaunce  whiche  he  hilhe  p-iyd,  as  dothe  apeare  by  hit  acom^ft 
Irx"  ij*  x'  'y 

So  Ronuynittie  in  hys  h.indcn,  »«  dotho  .ipeare  xviij"  vij'  iiij*  'K 

Item  he  dothe  aske  »llowanre  of  certen  docketes  to  iho  »ome  of  si*  iiij*. 

Sc  Rest  dedaro    [tie)  la  hya  handes  xvij**  xvj*  *^  thereof  payd  as  tolowvche. 

In  primls  to  Mr.  Neale  at  tKe  making  of  this  aeompte  w*  the  town  owthe  hym 
ia  panic  payment  of  x".  v]"  xilj*  ilij'  »ni  the  scyd  Mr.  Ncalc  dyd  awe  the  torwne 
V  nurkm,  wVti'^li  m.tdc  upc  x".  And  the  ««yd  Mr.  Neale  miul  have  1°  at  MycheU 
nuu  A'  Dnt  1555,  and  no  qujte. 

Iictn  Wlllm  harpoll  dyd  p»y  Willm  Uylor  nulour  x)"  ij-  i^ij'  *<>  in  full 
psytnent  of  his  owie  xvij"  xij*  **'  RfToraecyd,  and  to  cjuyt. 

AI«o  John  Adami  dyd  brine  >"  ^'*'  acompte  for  the  town  vessellei  for  one  boll 
yere  und  for  th«  hyer  of  the  lame  vetoellei  cvj*  ilij'  ''*  Delyv'd  to  the  chamberlayn 
John  Brigbtinen,  ci  sic  quietus. 

The  acomple  of  John  hdfpole  for  hi>  cbar^  at  London  Aa  1554. 


CIVIC  GOVERNMENT  AND  STATE.  57 

John  Harpole  dyd  bring'  in  to  the  Chamber  treas"  all  his  charges  allowyd, 
:}•  whereof  was  allowed  vj*  wh.  he  gave  to  Mr.  Chaunt  in  wine  So  rest  x*  vj' 
»b  was  p*  to  Mr,  taylor  maior  «'  vjd. 

Item  Willm  Taylor  maior  dyd  pay  to  John  Brightwen  chamberlayn  as  treasor 
U  the  town  the  charter  being  payd  and  discharged  w"^  coat  «vji,  the  some  of 
»*  Ij*  ■*,  et  sic  quietus. 

The  reason  of  chamberlain  Harpole's  journey  to  London  was 
doubtless  in  connection  with  the  obtaining  of  the  confirmation 
charter  from  Philip  and  Mary.  It  was  granted,  as  has  been  seen 
in  the  previous  volume,  on  October  15th,  1554. 

It  was  decided  in  1555  that  the  chamberlain  for  the  time  being 
should  not  be  chosen  into  any  other  office,  such  as  bailiff  or 
constable,  until  he  hath  made  his  account  to  the  chamber,  and  a 
new  one  chosen  in  his  place. 

The  Liber  Custumarutn  shows  that  the  office  of  chamberlain  was 
duplicated  in  the  fifteenth  century ;  but  it  afterwards  seems  to 
have  drifted  into  single  hands. 

On  Hay  20th,  1592,  the  assembly  ordered  that  on  and  after 
the  next  feast  of  St.  Michael  "there  shalbe  two  standing  chamber- 
Isynes  elected  " ;  it  was  provided  that  they  were  to  be  ready  at  all 
times  to  make  their  accounts  to  the  mayor,  and  to  make  payment 
of  all  such  moneys  and  arrears  to  him  as  shall  be  due. 

From  this  time  onwards,  for  about  a  century,  there  were  two 
chamberlains,  who  each  held  office  for  two  years.  One  was  elected 
*ver>-  October  assembly,  and  the  one  then  elected  was  termed  the 
younger  chamberlain  ;  in  the  following  October  he  became  the 
elder  chamberlain,  whilst  his  newly-appointed  colleague  acted  as 
younger  chamberlain.  The  elder  chamberlain  was  held  responsible 
'or  the  production  before  the  assembly  of  a  balance-sheet  of  the 
moneys  received  and  expended. 

The  chamberlains'  accounts  are  of  much  greater  general  interest 
and  value  than  those  of  the  mayor.  It  is  particularly  unfortunate 
that  so  very  few  of  the  earlier  ones  have  come  down  to  our  times. 
There  are  only  thirteen  of  these  separate  accounts,  as  originally 
presented  to  the  mayor,  now  extant,  viz.,  those  for  the  years  1676, 
1680,1688,  1692,  1693,  1698,  1703,  1704,  1707,  1708,  1741  1752, 
and  1760. 

Among  the  annual  payments  that  are  repeated  in  each  ot  these 
accounts  are  the  following  : — £16  13s.  4d.  for  the  horse  race  plate  ; 
2s.  per  week  (or  the  lazerman,  with  a  load  of  wood  and  apparel  ; 
a  coat  for  the  pinner,  about    t4s.  ;    the   salaries   of  the    recorder 


58 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUCK    RECORDS. 


(^4  4«.),  th«  town  council  {£2  2s.),  and  the  town  clerk  (.£&);  parf 
wage  of  the  upper  sexton  of  All  Saints  {£1  65.  8d.>,  the  hall  keeper ! 
iC'i).  the  herdsman  {£2),  the  master  of  the  bridewell  [£2),  and  thei 
conduit  man  (j^3). 

The    gifts    that    occur   regularly    in    these    accounts    are  : — Mr.l 
Burton's    gift    to    the    aldcrtnrn,    j^i  ;     Mrs.    tlkington's    gift    to] 
the  town  clerk.  10s.;  Mr.    Mercer's  gift  to  the  master  of  the  frecj 
school,  £2  los.  ;  Mr.  .Mderman  Freeman's  gift  to  the  poor  of  £1^ 
in  clothes  and  £2  12s.  in  bread:  Mr.  Alderman  Langham's  gift  to^ 
the  poor  of    jC35    CSt.    Tliomas'    Hospital):    Mr.   Acham's   gift  iaf 
bread,  £8;    Alderman   Wade's  gift  for  a  sermon,  Cz  :    Mr,    Neal's 
gift  of  2d,  a  week  to  26  widows.  £^  12s.  M. ;  and  the  corporation, 
gift  of  a  minimum  of  £2^    (but  usually  ^34)    to  the  poor 
Thomas'  day. 

Wc  have  selected  the  accounts  of  1693,  **  *  good  represeotativ 
year  of  the  full  details  supplied  by  the  chamberlain,  for  an 
transcript : — 

Tkr  Rsntall  op  all  rni  Lands  \itt>  Rxnts  bclong;ing  to  tbe  Coloration  «4 
NorttumploR  in  Ihi;  charge  of  Mr.  John  Whithome  CbamberUin  of  the  tame  Td<wim  , 
for  one  year  from  Michl'a   '^3- 

Mr.  Samuel  Clifford  M&to'. 
{Chwhrr   Ward) 
Of  Somuc]  Walker  out  of  M*  K»uk,  Mr.  Ncalet  gift 
Of  Mi.  I.ee  Towne  Clerke  (or  one  shop  under  the  Towu  h«U 

Of  John  Capornc  for  iha  other  jliop  ...         ...         

The  Annuitj'  out  of  the  Sw»n  Irm,  Mr  Nftalei  gift  to  the  widows  weektj' 

Of  Thomas  Mariyctt  (or  his  buuxe  upon  the  Baken  hill 

Of  John  Back*tt  for  the  next  houM  ad)oiiun(  to  the  great  Coniluit 


£n  '  • 


Eatt   Wardr. 

Of  Samuel  Scriven  Ear  Wool!  Kail,  now  Mr.  Kail         

Of  Thomas  Boddington    for  the  Tenements  and  giouad   at   St.    C^les 

Church  Y»rd,  Mr.  Hopkins  jift  

Of  Edwird  Boddlngton  for   the    Tcnrmeiils   and  Ground*    in  St.  Cjlat 

trtrqete  Alderrnan  Freemeiii  gift  Iti  brciid  ^. 


a  to 


South    Ward. 
Of   William   Tatei    Esq'  for  St.    Leonjirdi  farm  *nd    Satisburys   yard 

Land  and  a  Close  and  Composition  for  Carriages... 
Of  Tbo.  PackwDod  for  y*  tenements  in  Bridge  itreetes  a.nd  the  Gardm 

in  Barbers  End 


£9  'S 
£.    ». 


G«j  Warwick^  out  at  Barlowes  house       ,.  ,,.  ...       o  t3     4. 

I  Gay  Warwicke    for  a    gaiden  plott  empaled   10    h\s  house  aad  the 

pound  wh«regn  the  Gatehouse  stood       ...         .„         „.         ...  o    o    B 


«t  si  the  hoase  and  Orchard  or  Close  next  the  West  Gate,  Mr.  Else, 

Mr,  Priors  gift 
f  Thoftus  La**y  for  k  Tenement  in  CpHedge  Lane  flod  Ciosc  at  West 

Bridge  lying  by  the  side  of  the  Grea.t  River 
North    Ward: 
inloT  Mrj.  Eclons  house  in  the  Beast  Markett 

luTowwebalke  out  of  y"  North  Gate 

t  Richard  Dawes  \vm'.  for  a  peice  of  ground  ne«re  the  Ritrer  at  the  Castle 

Miiii         


tends  anil  Rrnta  lit  tkr  Cmttilry. 

'.  the  beires  and  A^signes  of  Mr.  Grant  'Or  of  ihe  Occupiers  oF  Lards  in 
Griinalby  and  other  places  in  the  County  of  Lincolne  the  yearly 
Renl  ai  Eight  Pounds  ^Wtti  by  Mrs.  Ch^pse/  Eoi-   f:tiaHtable  usea  in 

Northton  And  is  10  be  payd  bj  the  Deede  of  Annuity  in  the  Paiish 

Church   oi  All    Sa^inU  on   the   font   stone  there   att  the  [c39t3  of  AI! 

Saints  and  Pentecost  or  within  20  dayes  after  the  s'  dayei  of 
Payment  between  the  howres  of  9  and  11  of  the  Clock  in  the 
forenoone    ...         ...  ...         800 

Alexander  Maning  for  Lands  in  Milton  Parish       ...  ...  800 

„  „  for  meadow  ground  in  Cotton  Marsh         ...  5   10     O 

the  beires  of  Mr.  Acham  his  yearly  gift  to  be  distributed  in  bread  to 

the  poore  of  Northampton ...  ...  ...  ...  800 

Edward  Kent  Tho.  Wilby  Wm  Massey  and  Edwd  Smyth  the  yearly 

Annuity  of  Mrs.  Chipsey  out  cj  lands  in  Pisford       o  19    9 

the  BayliSs  of  Nortbamptoo  for  the  Commission  of  Gaole  Delivery  100 


Lands  and  Rmfs  bttonging  to  the  Mannor  of  Goiiotu.  £.  s,  d. 
Thomas  Fisher  for  the  Moyety  of  Six  Yard  Lands  in  the  fields  of 

Northlon    ...         ,,.         ...         ...         ...                    ...         ...         ...  36    o    O 

William  Jeoffrey  for  the  Other  moyety  of  the  Sii  Yard  L,ands  ...  3(S    o    o 

Mr.  Robert  Adys  for  the  farme  homstead  and  Grounds  belonging  to  it  400 
Xpofer  Thompson  for  four    Lands    whereon    is    the    Brick    Kiln   and 

Wall  Bank  a  o  o 
the  Assignes  of  Richard  Lee  for  Ihe  house  and  backside  adjoyning  to 

the  fame  yard           168 


6o 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


Of  Mr.  Richard  Ebrall  for  the  Bailiffs  hooke           i   15    o 

Of  Mr.  Watson's  heire  for  pte  of  the  Butchers  Shambles                    ...  100 

Of  Jonas  Watts  for  the  New  Pastures  and  Houses           ...         ...         ...  3o    O    O 

Of  John  Knight  for  the  2  litle  Closes  adjojning  to  St.  Gyles  Churchjard  300 


£104 


Other  Receipts  by  this  Accompt. 
Rec''  of  John  Smith  and  Thomss  Judkins  for  the  Bull      ... 
Rec^  of  Mr.  Ives  as  a  fyne  refusing  to  serve  Mayor  being  Elected 

Of  Mr.  Wallis  for  the  like  .', 

Of  Mr.  Else  for  the  like        

Of  Mr.  Styles  the  like 

Of  Mr.  Whiston  selling  8"  for  a  Debt        

Of  Mr.  Richard  Saunders 

Of  Mr.   Richard  Clifford         

Of  Mr.  Edwd.  Ivory        

Rec*  of  the  Commons 

for  201   horses  at  6s.  per  horse 

for   II   horses  at  js.  per  horse     ... 

for  3  horses  at  4s.  6d.         „ 

for  II  horses  at  4s.  

for  4  horses  at  3s.  fid.        „  

for  3  horses  at  3s.  ...         ...         

for  3  horses  at  3s.  fid.         „  

for  4  horses  at  2s.  „ 

for  2  horses  at  is.  „  

for  130   cows   at   5s.    per   cow  ... 

for  4  cows  at  43.  „ 

for  a  cows  at  3s.  „ 

for  4  cows  at  2s.  „  ...         ...         

for  3  cows  at   is.  fid.  

for  I  cow  at  is.  ,,  ...         ...         

Certaine  Pqym*'  by  this  Aeeompt. 

To  the  Lazerman  3s.  per  weeke  ...         ...         

One  Load  of  Wood  us.  and  a  Great  Coate     ... 

The  Pynners  Coate  about  14s....  ...  

Old  Bates  is.  per  weeke      

Old  Mr.  Judkins  3s.  per  weeke 
The  Heard's  wages     ... 

To  John  Pendleton  the  hall  keeper     ...         ...         ...         

The  Seiitons  wages  ... 

The  Recordors  Salary  4  Guineys 

The  Towne  Counsell  3  Guineys ,.,         ... 

The  Rentall  and  perfecting  this  booke 

The  Plate  for  the  horse  race  


8 


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CIVIC    GOVERNMENT    AND    STATE. 


6i 


Ut.  Tate  for  Balmesholme...         ...         ...         ...         

the  Poore  att  St.  Thomas  day  29" 

:.  Barton's  g^ft  to  the  Aldermen 
IE  Master   of   Bridewells  wages    .,,  ... 

ht  Interest  of  c"  to  Mrs.  GoldsmTth 
IbsoDs  Interest  of  40"  to  the  children 
VldemuD  Wade's  gift  for  a  Sermon    ... 

Ur.  Ball's  gift   Interest  of  50"  Clothing  and  widd'         

Hi.  Acham's  gift  in  bread  8"      ...         ...         ...         

M[.  King  the  Ministers  house  Rent 

Mr.  Elkingtons  gift  to  the  Towne  Gierke  

U[.  Mercers  gift  to  the  Freescfaoole  Mr.     ... 

To  Richd.  Bland  looking  to  and  repairing  y*  Conduits         

Tlie  Towne  Clerks  Salary 

To  Robert  Moore  mending  y*  River   bracks...  ...  ...  

AUermao  Freemans  gift  in  Clothes  15"    ,,. 

Hr.  Neall'e  gift  out  of  the  Swan  Inn  to  the  36  widows  as.  a   piece  by 

the  weeke  ...         ...  ...         ...         ...         ...         

Alderman  Freemans  gift  in  bread  weekly 

AldwnHn  Langhams  gift  to  y*  poore...         


£. 

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;f  159     19       O 


Not.  1    Payd  Peedle  for  removing  the  stocks      

Given  the  Ringers  at  the  Kings  returne    ...         

And  to  the  Bellmen  making  the  fire 

Payd  Peedle  looking  after  the  horses  6  weeks 

P^;rd  Knott  for  mending  the  hospital!  windowes 
9  Dec.    Pd  Wm.  Clark  a  Tax  to  Hardingstone  for  Balmesholme... 

And  to  Mr.  John  Clarke  a  chiefe  Rent 

Pd  Wm  Oldam  and  John  Twigden  a  Tax  for  Commons  ... 
"S  Dec.  PdAlex.  Manning  a  Tax  for  Milton  Unds       

Pd  Wm  Jeoffrcy  and  Tho.  Fisher  3''  and  3^  quarterly  tax... 

And  for  a  Levy  lo  highways      ...         

"  Dec,  Pdjohn  Saunders  a  Tax  in  the  East  Ward  

Pd  lor  carrying  Wood  into  the  Hall       

"3  Dec.  Pd  Thos  Sheppard  a  Tax  for  Commons  in  West  Ward    ... 

Pd  Oakley  [or  emptying  the  Soyle  Tub  in  y*  Gaole    ... 

Pd  for  Winlring  the  Bull         

Pd  for  Ale  at  the  Towne  Hall       

•JiTen  to  Sr  Tho.  Samwells  man  bringing  y'  come 

Pd  Mrs.  Elii.  Rands  Interest  of  60"        

'^d  Mn.  Warner  Interest  of  70"  per  anum 

^<i  Mr.  Breton  a  Fee  per  Order 

**  Peedle  for  driving  the  Commons 


*Sjan. 


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6a 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


13  Moreh  Pd  Wm  CUrk  nf  Kardingiton  >  Tax  for  Bslm«i  Holme 

Pd  Gwjfge  Bolt  for  cleanlnjy*  Highway     ...  

Pd  f«r  Ale  It  Towne  Hall  

Pd  Mr.  Bavley  For  Ale  at  th«  Kings  returne 

Pd  Mr.  Mootc  niid  Banle  Mlggons  Tu  for  Commona  ... 

Pd  .Mr.  W«forn«f©r»  Bull 

EM  Cox  &  Twigdec  a  Tax  in  the  Euc  Ward      

Pd  WmWallis  a  Tax  inthc  Wwt  Waid 

Pd  ThoM.K  Kingrose  (or  Timber  and  Cnrp«nt«n  work  nbout  th« 
Driii£c  nil  Nun  MID  Balmcsliolrnc  the  Hoapiiatl  Cov  Meadow 
Gtit«  And  other  work  u  by  Bill  ,.,         ... 

Payd  at  St  Tbonias  Alderman  frveman's  gift 

Pd  the  6  widdowa  31.  6d  apiece 

Pd  Mr.  King  lar  the  Sermon        

Pd  for  shoes  (or  the  Opoore 

Pd  tor  6  ihifu  

Pd  for  iRyard«af  black  cloth  jt.  pw  yd  and  for  Triming 

Pd  Mr.  Archer  ihe  Schootmastei  .  ...         ... 

Pd  for  making  two  gownes     ...         

Pd  [or  6  poire  of  stouking  

Feb.         Pd  Mr.  Lee  for  1  Orders  for  Wriliog*  

June        Pd  Mt,  Reading  by  Order    . 

Pd  Mr.  John  Fgwlct  pei  Order  upon  ih«  account  of  Mr.  Wudt 

ClOM  to  the   Hcwpilall  ...  ...  

Sept.       Pd  Mr.  Sdby  pan  of  Cliiionx  children*  money  by  order        ..• 

Pd  The.  West  by  Order  for  Bucketts  

Pd  Mr.  Clendoij  by  Order  part  of  Evans  money 

Oct.         Pd  Mf.  Plowman  by  Order  hia  Bill  in  Evaiucauae 

Pd  .Mr.  Le«  by  Ordc^r  far  BuHincM  att  the  Asiixei  about  the  Riatt 

aiiJ  the  Table  of  the  Benefactors  by  the  Fire 
Pd   Mr,   CUrk   by   Order  due  at  the  fool  of   hit  Aecount  by 

disroaming  the  Swan  tent  ...  ..         ...         

g  April   Pd  Mr.  V'inicr  a  Tax  [or  ilie  church  of  Hardingatoo 

Pd  Mr.  Hancocle  a  Constable"*  I.evy 

Pd  Mr.  Clark  j  Levy  (or  the  Poore        

Pd  Mr.   BoddingCon  for  Mortvr  and  Sand  to  m«nd   ihc   Bridge 

Wallat  Balmes  Huhne  dore        

Pd  PcedU  foT  watching  hones  at  West  Bridge 

Pd  for  ciTtying  a  load  nf  Wood  at  Ho»pitall  ...         

Given  the  Miller  of  Nuns  Mill  for  drawing  the  wster  to  ntend  the 

isnagee  ,..        ■■«         »«        •■«        •*■        «*.        ««         ■•■ 
Given  the  Cry«r  Ibr  crTiog  the  ComiDOai  attd  attending  the 

Braoding       

Givan  Peedle  anil  Woodward  helping     „. 

Given  Tho,  Rlngrosc  and  Sam  Wclford  helping 

Qven  Mr.  Lee  for  Writing  ...        ,„        ,„        , 


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CIVIC  GOVERNMENT  AND  STATE. 


63 


Given  to  Robt  Moore  helping 

Pajd  Mr.  Barnes  for  new  Lead  Weights  to  weigh  the  Bread... 

b  for  mending  and  cieaning  the  Mace 

Pd  Mr.  King  hb  dues  for  the  Commons       

Pd  a  Messenger  to  Tiffield  WcNids  

Pd  for  Glasing  the  house  at  Dearne  Gate    ...         

Pd  for  a  Haspe  and  Ironworke  for  Midsomer  Meadow 

Pd  the  Mold  Catcher 

Pd  Heny  Cawcott  for  hedging  in  Midsomer  Meadow  106  pole  at 

lid.  per  pole       ...  

And  for  halfe  a  dayes  worke  in  the  Cow  Meadow  ...         

Allowed  the  workmen  drincke 

Pd  for  worke  done  in  Midsomer  Meadow  and  the  rest  of  the 

meadows  hedging  and  dvking  by  Rich.  Mason  8  dayes  and 

halfe 

To  John  Stone  8  dayes  and  halfe...         ...         ,., 

To  John  Whaiey  7  dayes  and  halfe 

To  Francis  Eggleston  5  dayes       ...  ...  

To  Wm  Gamer  5  dayes  and  halfe      ...  ...  ...  ...  .  . 

To  Wra  Warwickc  8  dayes  and  halfe     

To  Edward  Whurlidge  i  daye  and  halfe 
Pd  Joseph  Tims  31  dayes   . 

Pd  Wm  Maddock  16  dayes  and  halfe  ...         

To  Wm  Arkwright  7  dayes  and  halfe 
Pd  for  the  use  of  3  Wheelebarrows   ,. 
Pd  forcarriage  of  the  rayles  at  West  bridge 
Pd  a  man  from  Mittan  2  dayes  dyking 

Pd  John  Knott  for  the  branding  dynner...  ...  

Pd  for  beere  for  the  Labs 

Pd  Wm  Arkwright  2  dayes  digging  stone  ...  

And  4  weeks  looking  after  the  cattell 

Pd  VV"m  Wickens  for  7  Load  of  Wood  to  fence  Midsomer  Meadow 

Pd  to  John  Stone  for  230  setts  for  stakes 

Pd  Wm  Kingston  for  a  load  of  blackchornes 

&  tor  poles  for  Westbridge  Arch... 

Given  at  Sr  Just  Ishams  to  y*  Groome 

Pd  Mr.  Moore  at  Flcete  for  Ale  for  Labs  

Pd  4  of  Houghton  Lab'  mending  Ruahmill  way  when  the  teames 

came .. 
Pd  Wm   Garner  for  weeding  the  Quick  and  soyling  the  trees 

with  dung  ...  ...  „,  ...  .,, 

And  filling  stone  cart  one  day 

Pd  Spencer  one  day  filling  stone  cart     ...         

Pd  Madock  3  dayes  and  halfe  digging  stone 

Pd  Tyms  10  dayes  digging  gravel  and  dyking  ...         

Pd  John  Stone  9  days  at  the  same , 


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64 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


Pd  Wm  Firejr  i  d»y  jtone  cart 

Pd  Fr  Eugle  tba  lanM ...         m.  ..<  •» 

rd  Wm  Warwick  6  dayas  digging  and  dyking...        

Pd  Nir.h.  Ma5oa4  dajes  and  hiilfc  >I  sAme 

Pd  Ri(!hd  Chambers  for  n«n«  to  mend  the  Bridge  wall  and 

rep3jr«  the  higbwajs  .„         ...         ...         ...         ...  069 

Given  to  the  13  Tcatnes  from  Hougbton  10  mend  tlie  hlgltway«  \ty 

order  ,  ...         ...         ...         ...      o    fi 

Pd  to  VVarwkk  Tyim  mending  ihe  way  at  W«*t  bridge        ...  o    3 

3  June    Pd  Win  CUrke  Tax  (01  Baime*  iiolme  O  13 

&  For  Chipnc]'*  Mvadovr     .,.  .,...01 

90  Jane  Pd  tlic  Tax  for  liie  Town*  Farmc  3  quartrrs  , , .  5    o 

And  for  Txofee  cnunejr  ...  o    8 

Pd  for  nuking  Ppf^iJM  coate  10  Aub.  Cbsrl««  o    a 

SI  June  Pd  Mr.  Monte  and  Hij^^aas  the  3''  iiu.inetly  pajrmeftt  ...  1     3 

Pd  Jo».  Procto'r  for  Iron  workc  a»  by  Sill  ...  ..        <j  19 

ajt  June  Pd  Cai  and  Twigden  Taa  In  the  East  Ward     ...  ..  i    4 

P<1  Win  Wall«T«  In  ilie  Weal  Ward        o  to 

Pd  Caivrott  unc  day  rcjiJjring  Midvomer  hedge       o     1 

Pd.  Thamits  Dunckley  lai  wood  (or  Ihe  hall  o  12 

Pd.  A1U.  Manning  a  Tax  iat  htf  laad      ,.,  o  ifl 

6  Aug.    Pd  at  George  for  Wyne  by  Bill  4    5 

6  Sept.    Pd  Wm  Clarke  a  Tii  the  last  payment   ,.         ...         o  13 

Given  al  Mr  Montagues  to  the  SerranU o    S 

Gircn  al  ibe  Earl  of  NoTtbiuns    ..         ,„        ...  310 

Pd  Mr.  F.I*fi  a  Tna  foi  Wutbridge  Clone o     6 

Pd  Jona*  Wallx  fur  Taxei  .ind  Repayrct  by  Bill  6  14 

13  Sept.  Pd  the  Compa»itittn  money  at  Slaibrid^e  faire  for  a  yean  and 
apeat  i»,  

a6  Sept.  For  Mo^m  nnd  Higgons  th«  Tax  in  lli?  Snuth  Ward  ... 
Pd  Wm  Wnllif  and  Brownswood  Tss  m  the  West 
Pd  John  l.avr  for  plaftcring  the  dore«lhc  Leads  of  the  Hall. 

97  Sept.  Pd  Cox  and   Twigden   for  the   Tax    of  the   meadow*   and   new 

pastures  in   Hast   Ward  ...  ... 

Pd  at  G«orge  with  Mr.  Mayor  meeting  a  gentleman    ... 

Pd  Tasei  for  the  Brick  Kline  to  Thonipsuo 

Pd  John  Baltnruin  for  mending  the  hall  windows  and  mending  the 

Leadi         ...  0  13 

Pd  tor  lymlfci  to  mend  Nun  Mil)  bridge  Jpeiceaoach  l$  loot  long      0  15 
Spent  ac  Mveml!  tymes  upon  ihc  Town  Ten"  at  receipt  of  their 

Rcnta  and  given  y*  Serjeant*  for  Summoni       ...        ...         ...       015 

Payd  John  Bradshaw  60  fagolts  fox  the  BoncCre         ■>*         ..,  0    y 

Pd  Jamei  Weston  for  I  days  work  at  St.  Thomas  Hospital]  and 

pins ,.       I  to 

Pd  forSIatt  and  lyme  to  repnyer  the  HoipiLiIl ...  0    3 

Pd  Jo.  Tf  nu  for  conveying  gravel  into  Balme*  holme  to  ntcad  the 

way  in  the  Holme c     o 


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0  5 


CIVIC  GOVERNMENT  AND  STATE.  65 

£.    s.  d. 
Fd  Jaimes  Lummas  for  worke  at  Hospital  and  at  Bridges  and  for 

pibles       o  19    8 

Pd  Tha.  Hoboy  for  worke  at  John  Becketts  house 0311 

Pd  Mr.  John  Lucas  as  by  his  Bill 130 

Pd  for  a  Haspe  and  staple  for  the  Hall  dore           010 

Pd  for  Gownes  for  S',  John  Langhama  poore,  addition  to  this 

present  yeare      ...          ...          ..           ...          -..  4     0     O 

Pd  Richard  Bland  for  Lead  and  mending  the  litle  Conduit  as  by 

Bill ■..  I  10  10 

Pd  for  paving  near  the  Towne  hall          o     I     6 

Pd  Henry  Cooper  for  3  distresses  and  3  Sumons    ...          ...          ...  054 

Pd  for  Pipes  and  Candles  for  the  Hall o  >5     3 

Pd  the  accustomed  Fee  gathering  the  Rental!        068 

Pd  Mr.  Priors  gift  to  the  Chambcrlalne  ... O     I     O 

Pd  Mr.  Neales  gift  to  the  Chamberlaine       050 

Pd  Mt.  Moore  his  Interest  of  c"  a  year 300 

Pd  Edward  Hodgkins  his  Bill  for  worke  done  at  the  Cow  Meadow 

Wall  and  backside  Westons          o  19     S 

Received  short  the  73"  lines  by  a  pistole  for  a  Guiney  and  a 

french  2s,  6d 046 


The  Rcc"  of  thb  accompt  are  Three  Hundred  Seventy  and  Three  Pounds 

Thirteene  Shillings  and  One  Penny       373   13     I 

Tb*  Papn"  are  Three  Hundred  Forty  Two  Pounds  Nineteene  Shillings 
and  Four  Pence  And  the  Docketts  are  Eighteene  Pounds  and 
Four  Shillings  and  spent  on  the  Auditors  Two  Shillings  and 
Siipence 343  ig     4 

TIk  Rcc*  being   the  greater  sum  there  remaynes   due  to  the  Towne 

The  Northampton  riot  of    1693  referred  to  in  these  accounts  is 
named  in  Hall's  MS.     It  is  thus  entered  :— "  A  Riot,  Wheat  being 
p-  a  BusheU,  to    stop  Tranting  one    Buckby's  Waggon  of    Meal 
was  seiz'd,  some  of   the    Rioters  were   whip'd  but    very  gently  at 
the  Sessions,  but  Buckby  the  Trantor  hanged  himself  Aug*'.  2d." 
Trantor  was  a  later   term   for   a    "  forestaller,"    so    strongly  con- 
demned by  the  old  customary  of  Northampton,  in  the  first  volume  of 
this  work,  as  "  an  oppressor  of  the   poor  and  a  public  enemy  of 
the  whole  country,"    particularly    if  he    dealt    in    corn    and  tried 
unnaturally  to  raise  its  price. 

Amongst  the  corporation's  books  are  two  volumes  of  chamber- 
«in's  accounts.  The  first  of  these  contains  the  chamberlain's 
receipts  and  expenditure  from  1690- 1  to  1749-50,  with  two  or  three 
omissions.    Then  there  is  a  gap  of  some  fifteen  years,  when  the 

counts  are  resumed  in  another  volume,  which   begins  in    1764-5, 
and  closes  with  1825-6. 

F 


« 


NORTHAMPTON    DOROUGH    RECORDS. 


Various  interesting  details  takrn  From  these  accounts  appear 
throughout  this  volume  under  their  respective  heads.  Among  the 
general  receipts  of  a  special  character  not  admitting  of  classification 
the  following  seem  noteworthy : — 


Ree'  of  Mr.  Gcoree  Hayns  for  a  a\6  Helli  from  y*  Outle 

ReH  of  Mrs.   L(forr«  for  h«r  booth  at  yt   n«w  w«lls 

For  old  materials  at  valued  at  lh«  Farm  Houm    In  Cotton  Bod 
after  ilic  Fire  i here  ..         ...         


£.  %. 
3  4 
a    3 


S  lo    o 

No  small  amount  of  the  town's  money  went  in  wine-  The 
chamberlain's  accounts  for  i6go-i  show  that  £i2  5s.  id  was  spent 
over  wine  during  that  year  at  the  entertainment  of  judges  and  for 
reioiciflgs  at  thanksgivings.  For  several  years  the  wine  for  the 
judges  ai  the  two  assises  averaged  about  £5. 

In  1712,  when  (here  were  no  public  rejoicings,  the  wine  bill  came 
toj^io  i6s.  od.     That  same  year  30S.  was  spent  in  a  doien  o(  winc_ 
for  the  Bishop  of  Chester  when  he  visited  the  town. 

In  1780  expenses  begin  to  be  entered  about  wine  for  "  the  mayo" 
and  aldermen'.";  club."     In   1786  this  club  spent  £l  6s.  3d.,  in  iji 
£t  IIS.  6d.,  and  in  1791  £j  19s.  5d. 

Subsequently  the  feasting  expenses  became  much  more  scrioi 
In  1812  the  chamberlain's  accounts  include  £5  5s.  for  the  court 
aldermen  when  they  met  at  the  Rose  and  Crown  in  February,  £^ 
at  the  Peacock  in  May,  £5  5s.  at  the  Rose  and  Crown  in  August, 
well  ns  £^  135.  8d.  for  dinners  in  October  "  for  the  Committee 
Survey."  In  the  same  year  /"rS  as.  lod.  was  spent  at  the  dinner  in 
passing  the  chamberlain's  accounts,  and  £^  Ss.  Qd.  for  supper  for  the 
aldermen  after  attending  the  judges. 

In  i8[8  the  chamberlain's  accounts  are  credited  with  £21  tgs.  8d. 
for  dinners  on  passing  the  accounts,  £1^  18s.  3d.  being  two-thirds  of 
the  feasting  on  branding  day,  jfzo  is.  2d.  for  dinners  and  wine  on 
St.  Thomas'  day,  and  £6  5s.  od,  for  suppers  for  the  aldermen  when 
attending  the  judges  at  the  Lent  and  summer  assizes. 

The  following  interesting  entry  occurs  in  the  minute*  of  the 
court  of  aldermen.  October  7th,  1783:— 

■•The  Hid  Mr.  Licy  the  prewtit  Chamberlain  having  va1unUT7  propoied  to 
attend  as  uiten  as  ha  coBvenicDtljr  can  in  h'u  Uniform  the  Mayor  to  church  and 
upon  othar  |)ublie  occaiionx.  Ordered  that  a  respectable  silver  Key  In  the  Gothic 
Taste  double  Gilt  be  £brthwit)i  provided  by  the  pieimt  Mayor  at  tbc  Corpw«tion*> 
cxp«nM  to  be  worn  bif  th«  Chamberlain  far  thic  time  being  with  a  bltnr  Silk 
Ribbon  at  all  limcx  attending  the  Mayor." 

At  the  same  court    It  was  ordered  that,  in   order  to  prortck 


CIVIC    GOVERNMRNT    AND    STATE. 


67 


:r  accommodation  for  the  chamberlain  in  All  Saints'  rhurdi, 
arms  he  put  up  ocar  the  ttailiffs  seat,  in  the  upper  bailiff's  pew. 
the  use  of  the  chamberlain  for  the  time  being. 
This  handsome  silvtr-gik  key,  with  broad  blue  silk  band  attached, 
i»cd  into  private  hands  on  tlie  passing  of  the  Corporation  Reform 
Towards  ihe  close  of  1895  it  was  restored  to  the  corporation 
;h  the  town  clerk.  On  Feb.  6lh,  1896.  this  key,  with  other 
corporation  insignia,  was  exhibited  at  the  Society  of  Antiquaries 
(he  Rev.  Dr.  Coit,  F-S.A-,  where  it  attracted  some  attention,  as 
other  corporate  town  has  such  an  emblem  in  use. 
On  one  side  of  the  key  is  the  inscription  "John  Lacy,  Cliamber- 
itn  of  the  Corp"  of  Northampton,"  and  on  the  other  "J.  Sutton, 
Esq".,  Mayor,  1783." 

A   list  of  chamberlains  from    [690  downwards  is  given  in  the 
zadix. 

The  Town  Clf.rk. 

The  town  clerk  or  common  clerk  wa.s,  from  the  earliest  days,  ao 
irariable  adjunct  of  municipaJ  life.     Sometimes,  as  at  one  period 
Northampton,  lhi&  official  was  considered  and  termed  tbc  mayor's 
trie ;  bul  this  was,  after  all,  a  distinction  without  a  difference,  for 
an  official  would  only  be  clerk  to  the  mayor  in  his  municipal 
spadty  and  in  the  business  that  he  transacted  for  the  good  of  the 
>iim. 
The  ton-n  cleric  was  usually,  though  not  of  ncccisity,  a  lawyer, 
it  Wis  absolutely  essential  that  he  should  be  a  good  and  ready 
•crivcner.     In  the  fourteenth  and  fifteenth    centuries    almost  every 
)WD  of  any  importance  required   the  writing  out  afresh  and  the 
ringing  up  to  date  of  its  customar}*,  or  record  of  local  laws  and 
10ms.     The  transcribing  of    the  oft-changing  bye-laws  of    the 
Fading  rralcmities  and  the  drawing  up  of  recognizances,  especially 
bosc  for    the  alehouses,    would   give   him    constant    emplo}mienL 
Coosiderable  occupation  of  a  like  character  would  also  be  provided 
Ibe  enrolling  of  deeds,  leases,  and  agreement*,  not  only  in  con- 
with  the  common  property  of  the  town,  but  as  clerk  of  the 
inpA  or  local  court  of  record,  a  post  almost  invariably  filled  by 
town  clerk. 

As  ihe  chief  local  adviser  oi  a  constant   succession  of  mayors, 

Lown  ctcrk,  whose  appointment  was  practically  for  life,  held  a 

rition  of  considerable  importance,  and  was  the  embodiment  of  a 

r  3 


68 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


I 


continuous  stream  of  tradition  amid  the  eddies  of  an  ever-diatiging' 

throng  of  unnuiil  officials 

The  town  clerk  had  but  seldom  any  fixed  &ala.ry,  or,  if  tbere  vras 
one,  it  was  almost  of  nominal  value :  his  emoluments  wcr<  derived 
from  legal  fees  in  connection  with  A'arious  courts,  from  customary 
fees  (or  recognizances,  and  from  customary  fees  in  connection  with 
the  enrolling  of  freemen  and  apprentices.  At  Northampton,  the 
latter  fees  were  considerable,  amounting  for  the  last  centur>'  and 
a-hnlf  of  the  old  corporation  to  an  average  per  head  of  17s. 

At  Northampton,  the  election  of  the  town  clerk  varied  at  different 
periods,  but  mainly  rested  with  the  mayor  and  aldermen.  It  became 
practically  a  life  appointnncnt  right  through,  although  latterly  the 
aldermen  were  supposed  to  elect  every  year. 

One  of  the  witnesses  to  a  charter  in  the  British  Museum  <^  the 
year  132 1,  is  William  dc  Burgo,  town  ch-rk  of  Northampton. 
From  private  deeds  among  the  town  muniments,  wc  find  that 
John  Towccslcr  was  town  clerk  in  1460 ;  he  is  again  mentioned 
in  t^fif).  John  Laundcn  occupied  the  Kamn  position  tn  1471. 
The  name  of  John  Prcntes  also  appears  as  town  clerk  as  a. 
witness  to  a  deed  of  1513.  The  first  town  clerk,  however,  whose 
name  occurs  in  the  records  of  the  assembly  is  John  Sasby,  who 
held  that  position  throughout  the  reign  of  Edward  VI.  and  Philip 
and  Mary,  and  in  the  earlier  part  of  the  long  reign  of  Elizabeth. 
He  always  signs,  or  is  referred  to,  as  "common  clerk."  that  is 
clerk  to  the  community.  His  signature,  too,  like  that  of  modem 
peers,  always  lacks  the  Christian  name,  being  simply  Saxby. 
Wc  have  never  seen  this  custom  named  anywhere,  but  have  noticed 
this  use  of  the  surname  only  as  characterising  the  signatures  of 
the  clerk  of  the  peace  of  seven  different  counties  in  Elizabethan 
and  early  Stuart  times,  and  in  the  case  of  the  town  clerks  offl 
four  different  boroughs,  so  we  suppose  it  was,  at  that  time  a 
universal  habit.  The  earlier  records  of  the  quarter  sessions  of  the 
County  of  Northampton  were  not  signed  by  the  clerk  of  the  peace. 
But  from  1738  to  the  present  time  the  records  have  invariably 
been  signed  by  the  clerk  of  the  peace  with  his  surname  only. 

The  first  entry  tliat  wc  have  found  pertaining  to  this  officCi 
otherwise  than  the  mention  of  the  narae  is  under  the  order  of 
assembly  of  October  14th.  1578,  when  it  was  agreed,  "  Tliat 
Thomas  Sanbrooke  nowc  Mr.  Maior's  Clerke  shall  from  hcnse- 
Fourthe  duringe  his  Naturall   lyfFe    have   posscsse  and    enjoy  the 


CIVIC  COVERNMKKT  AND  STATE. 


69 


office    o(    Clerkcshippc    he    doingc    and    useinge    hymsclft! 
kcaillic  and  ordcrlyc  thcrin   towards    Mr.  Major    for   the    Tymc 
;ing  and  his  CobreLhcmc." 

It  was  ordered  by  the   assembly,  in    isgo,   that  the  mayor's 

icrk  for  the  time  being  shall  not  henceforth   make  any  copy   of 

iy  order  id  down   in   any    of    the   town    books  for  any   person 

wluUsocver.  without  the  special  license  of  the  mayor  under  pain  of  409. 

^B     On  October  6th,  1593,  George  Coldwell  was  elected  and  chosen 
^V  Uk  Maiors  Clarke  or  towae  Clarke." 

W^     The  oftice  of    tOHTi    clerk    was   not    specifically    mentioned  in 
any  of  the  earlier  charters,  but    in   the    extended   charter   of    t599 
jeorge   Coldwell   is  named  as   the   present  common  clerk  of  the 
»iwn,  commonly  called  the  town  clerk,  and  is  authorised  lo  receive 
write  recognizances  of  statute  merchants.     He    was    to   retain 
subject  to  good  conduct,  till  the  ensuin};  Michaelmas,  when 
mayor,   bailiffs,   and    burgesses    were,    according    to   custom, 
fearly  to  el«ct  a  fit   person   to  be  common  clerk  or  prothonotary, 
ko  write  &uch    recognizances,     This  customary  annual   election  of 
rcrognizancc  clerk  was    clearly    a    formal    matter,    as    it   was 
ivariably  regarded  as  an  appendage  of  the  town  clerk's  oifice. 

Up  to  1603,  the  mayor  was  in  the  habit  of  providing  the  town 

clerk  with  ''gowrw  clothes  and  wages."    In  that  year  the  assembly 

j^^odertook  to  pay  the  town  clerk  £2-  bs.  66.  b  lieu  of  the  wages ; 

^^But,  as  tias  been  remarked,  his  stipend  was  chieAy  drawn  from  fees. 

^H  Tbc-  charter  o(  161S  makes  mention  of  "our  beloved  Tobias 
^^totdwell"  as  town  clerk,  and  makes  the  same  provision  with 
^Begard  10  bim  as  recognizance  clerk  as  did  tlic  charter  of  1599. 
^^n  thi»  charter,  however,  the  custom  of  the  town  is  declared  to 
'  be  the  nominating  of  a  town  clerk  by  the  mayor  and  aldermen, 
and  no  reference  is  made  to  the  bailiffs  or  other  burgesses.  The 
IjHprdtfTf  of  assembly  are  in  his  handwriting  till  1654. 

^H  It  was  enjoined,  in  1640,  that  all  orders  made  at  any  assembly 
m^mtn  to  be  eiiti-Ted  against  the  next  assembly,  and  then  to  be 
openly  read  by  the  town  clerk  upon  pain  of  5s.  for  every  omission. 

Ill    1652,  the  assembly  directed  that  the  town  clerk  shall  never 
■t  any   tjmc   have  any  vote  or   voice    in    any    matter,    cause,   or 
whatsoever  propounded  or  discussed  in  any  assembly. 

On  Ibe   death    of    Toby    Coldwell,   id    1654,    the    mayor    and 


70 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


lar 
itnteo    ', 


aldermen  appointed  Mr.  Tempest  Cooke  to  the  office.  Mr  Coo! 
died  on  August  i8th,  i&sS,  and  at  the  court  of  a.ldcnmen  held  on 
August  28th,  of  tlic  same  year,  it  was  agreed  that  Hatton  Farmer, 
gentleman,  be  town  cleric  so  long  as  he  behave  himself  well  in 
the  said  ofBce,  and  providing;  that  he  never  absent  himself  from 
the  duties  of  liis  office  without  llie  license  or  consent  of  the  mayor 
and  aldermen. 

On  July  26th,    1660,  Hattoo    Farmer    voluntarily    resigned  tl 
office  of  town  clerk,  and  John    Fuwier,  gentleman,  was  appointed 
to  succeed   him.     His   appointment  was  made   subject  to  similar 
conditions   to   those   of    his  predecessor,  and   he   bad  also  to  pay 
£30  for  the  ofiice  to  the  court,  which  seems  to  be  an  ob' 
abuse. 

In    1662,  Henry  Lee,  then  serjeant  of  the  mace,  was  appoint 
town  clerk,  and  this  appointment   was  ratified   by  the  charter  of 
1663.     His  salar)'  as  town  clerk   was  .lettled  In  1668  at  £8,  to  be 
paid  yearly  by  the  chamberlain. 

On  January   J7th.  t68S-g.  Henry  Lee,  gentleman,  was,  "by 
unanimous  consent  of  the  wholl  house,"  removed   from    his  0 
of  town  clerk,  and   Anthony  Plant,  gentleman,  was    elected  in   bb 
place.      On    August  5lh,    1689.    the    assembly   formally  continued 
Anthony  Plant  in  his  office. 

Henry  Lee,  who  had  been  appointed  one  of  the  bailiffs  by 
king  on  September  4th,  1688.  suffered  much  for  his  compliance  wii 
the  wishes  of  James  11.  He  was  for  a  time  ignored  in  every  way- 
by  the  town,  and  at  last  reduced  to  poverty.  He  petitioned  the 
assembly  for  relief,  and  on  November  4th,  i6go,  it  was  ordered 
in  consequence  of  his  great  straits,  "  that  the  chamberlain  pay  lo 
Mr.  Henry  Lee,  towards  the  support  of  himself  and  family,  is.  a 
week  antil  further  order,  provided  that  he  deliver  up  with  the 
present  Maior  all  writeings  and  papers  that  he  hatli  in  his  hands 
touchiofje  or  conccmcing  the  said  Corporation."  This  altowance. 
however,  soon  came  to  an  end.  for  at  a  meeting  of  the  court  of 
aldermen,  on  December  gth,  ibfjo,  Henry  Lee  was  reelected  to 
clerk,  on  the  death  of  Anthony  Plant. 

On  August  4th,  [705,  it  was  reported  to  the  assembly  that 
Lee  was  willing  to  surrender  the  (own  clerk's  place  by  w.ason  of 
his  great  age  (86),  and  the  infirmities  attending  it.  Mr.  George 
Rowcll  was  elected  in  hia  place,  but  on  condition  of  giving  a 
bond  of  JC40''   to    Mr.  Ixe,  pledging  him  to  pay  £zs  per  annum 


CIVIC   GOVERNMENT  AND  STATE. 


7> 


Kvur 


life    to   Mr.    Lee,  and  further  that  the  corporation  pay    yearly 
to    Mr.  Lcc  ati  additional  sum  of  Xt<^  P^c  ajinum,  aod  if  it  should 
happen   tbat  Frances,   Ihe  wife  of    the    said    Ileary    Lee   should 
irvivc   hiRi,  that  then  the  j^io  be  continued  for  her  life. 

At  the  assembly  held  on  August  8th,  1765,  it  was  suted  that 
Mr.  George  Rowell  waa  too  aged  and  infirm  to  continue  in  the 
of&cc  of  town  clerk,  and  that  the  mayor  and  aldermen  had  duly 
elected  John  Jeyes,  attomey-at-law,  in  his  place.  Mr.  Rowell  was 
clerk  for  exactly  haU-a'Ccntur^'. 

The  charter  of   1796  provided  for  the  annual   election  of   the 
town  clerk  by  the  mayor  and  aldermen,  and  also  for  royal  sanction 

!lo  the  appoititmcnL. 
Mr.  John  Jeyes   was  yearly  continued    in  the  ofBce  of  town 
detk  by  vote   of  the  court    of    aldermen,    beginning    in    August, 
I7ja,  until  his  death   in    1797.      He   was    succeeded    by    his    son, 
Theophilus  Jeyes,  who  was  «jll  clerk  when  the  corporation  was 
Ktorawd  in  1835. 
Town  Attornry. 
Befofc  the  duties  of  a  town  clerk  became  well  defined,  it  was 
vsnii  lor  English  corporations  to  have  a  definitely-appointed  official 
fe  their  ordinary  legal  wnrk,  termed  the  town  attorney.    Sometimes 
thii  official  was  appointed  for  life,  (ubject  to  good  behaviour,  and 
soraelimes  he  was  chosen  or  nominated  year  by  year.    The  former 
^ft    vit  the  case  at  Northampton. 

^B  Tbc  earliest  entry  we  have  found  about  a  town  attorney  of 
^f  Nonhaxnpton  is  among  the  orders  of  assembly  for  (567,  when  it  was 
r^  iperflhat  "  the  attumay  of  the  lowneof  North'ton  in  the  Esehekcr 
I  calltct  .Mr-  Tybilde  shall  have  iiij"  a  yere  to  be  payde  by  the  baylys 
off  Northampton,  and  llial  the  towne  chamber  shall  pay  tht-  baylyves 
IT  tuvfiirdes  the  same  iiij"  yerely.*'  This  entry  implies  that  £3  of 
tbtuUry  was  to  be  found  by  the  bailiffs  out  of  their  own  special 
funds,  (or  at  ihis  time  tire  bailiffs  held  certain  lands  in  their  own 
\  '■S'^t,  and  also  received  the  various  tolls. 

H  Tlie  mayor  and  his  co-brethren,  or  aldermen,  on  the  death  or 

^M  miictiation  of  Mr  Tybalde,  claimed  to  have  the  appointment  of  town 
H  *ttorney  in  their  hands.  Here  and  there,  throughout  the  iirst  volume 
01  the  otdcts  of  assembly,  are  interspersed  certain  acts  of  the  court  of 
wdcrnfiem.  In  1569.  on  February  z^ih,  (he  mayor  and  eight  of  his 
brethren  "by  good  deliberation  and  advicement  did  elect  and  chuze 
^  be  Uiet  .\ttomay  in  all  courles  within  the  quene's  raa»  hall  at 


7» 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH     RECORDS. 


WestinUtcr  or  ellswrar  wilhtn  the  Realnac  o(  EngetotMle,  one  Thooais  | 
Manninge  gentilman  to  supplie  the  oflicc  abovescide."     la  the  just* 
quoted  assembly  order  of  1567,  the  name  of  Mr.  TjbaJdc  is  erased, 
and  Thomas  Maiiiiiitgc  sub:itiluted. 

In  1578  the  assembly  ordered  "  that  thcr  sh^Ibc  chosen  obc 
Attorney  general!  toanswere  for  the  Towne  affaires  at  Loadon,  and 
the  same  Attorney  to  have  yercly  paide  hyra  for  his  fee  20s."  This, 
wc  suppose,  refers  lo  the  20s.  which  was  the  assembly'*  share  ot 
the  attorney's  annual  fee  of  £4- 

At  an  as»«mbly  held  on  Januaiy  19th,   1587-8, 

Ic  i*  cOBdtKobilttd  smI    hgt«tii  thnl    Mr.  EdmuMl    CraMocle*  t^»lb*   AttOnM} 
fmmll  fot  lh«  tawne  affjiite*,  and  ihAi  he  ihall  bjive  bi>  ordfiuriEaml  aca 
fn  pkide  him  ererie  t«nne  (or  crery  niittler  be  shall  dcale  and  ake  p*ynt»  im  tof  Hi*  \ 
lowae  and  fhsl)  )iav«  boidM  ycarlia  half  an  aera  of  ;ruH  in  iha  Abbotui  Mm4«m  j 
and  commons  for  obc  hone  and  two  bcaalM  as  ftecracn  of  the  townc  have,  |iijii^] 
for  lh«  vtme  gnase  aitd  commoiu  a*  freemen  of  t}ii»  lowTfC  uiittJtJt  do*. 

A   new   appointment    had  to  be   made  in    i6o3,  for  reasons  £«t| 
forth  in  the  following  order: — 

Tluri  whereu  Mr.  Pranci*  Tate  wbo«  vam  coui»cel1  within  tb«  towns,  tmA  b 
ngwd  llieRof  had  fMrtlt  a  stiindlng  fM  of  fourtle  ihilllnfi,  toruBMcbe  as  tho  tald» 
Prtttcig  Tatv  now*  73  rcmoTcd  or  thanli*  y*  to  remove  InIO  Wolas,  a  place  *o  t»m 
ditrtanl  iiora  itiia  Inwn*  thkt  lh«  earponlion  Upon  aeio  oppurtunia  carie  r>oi  bare  «j| 
a)  bim  Bt  heretofore ;  TImI  in  conilderalion  hnmif  Ur.  FnunciR  Harvey  ftnt.  (hall , 
b«  of  ooDniell  within  tkii  Iowm  in  the  aSairM  llmeot  (yf  yi  soe  ihall  plc«K  lita) 
and  haee  ysarite  paide  hitn  the  uide  Muidinf  fee  of  foeftie  Bhillings. 

In  August,  1660,  Hutton  Former,  who  had  just  resigned  the  town) 
clerkship,  was  appointed  town  attorney  by  the  court  of  aldermen,^ 
for  which  lie  was  to  receive  the  usual  fee  of  6s.  8d.  every  term. 

By  letters  patent  of  February  23,  1687-8,  Francis  Heading  was' 
removed  from  the  office  of  town  attorney,  and  Richard  Harris  was 
appointed  in  his  place. 

On   January    17th,    1688-9,    Edmund   Bateroan,   gentleman, 
elected  town  attorney. 

On  April  30th,  1700,  William  Lee  was  appointed  town  attorMy 
for  the  curi>oralion,   "  to  receive  the  fees  and  perquisites  as  otfaen] 
have  done  before  bim." 

Lee  was  followed  in  the  attorneyship  by  one  Marrtolt,  wl 
DOmc  appear*  in  the  accounts  of  1717  as  receiving  a  salary 
retaining  fee  of  £l  <n.  8d. 

Soon  after  this  the  mention  of  a  town  attorn^  censed,  and 
duties  became  merged  in  those  of  the  town  cterk. 


CIVIC  GOVERNMENT  AND  STATE. 


73 


The  Serjeants-at-Mace. 
There  is  no  mention  of  the  scrjcant  of  the  mace  or  oC  other 
ints  in  Ihc  various  charter!)  granted   to  the  town,  as    is  the 
with  boroughs  of  less  importance.     Indeed,  when    charters  of 
fourtccntli  century  mtfdc  special    mention   of   these   officials,  il 
tj  generally  by  way  of  confirming  an  aocitnt  privilege-     We  know 
that   Serjeants  existed  in    London,    lixeter,  Norwich,    Winchester, 
id    Southampton    in    the    last    half    of    the    thirteenth    century, 
all    probability    they   formed    a   component    part    of    the    town 
1»  of    NorthampTon   in  the  time  of  Henry  111.,  but   the    first 
of  them  that  wc  have  been  able  to  trace,  is  in    the   lime 
rard  11. 
Tbe   number  of  Serjeants  appointed    by  a  municipality  varied 
some  extent    according   to    the    status   and    size  of    the   town, 
eviiral  towns  had  only  one,  and  by  far  the  larger  number  were 
Html    to  two.       London    had    24.     Norwich     n,    Cambridge    g, 
|ewcaslle-oQ-Tyne    and    Bristol    8,    whilst    Canterbury.    Chester, 
loncester.  Winchester.  Oxford,  and  twelve  others,  had  four. 
At  the  beginning  of  the  fourteenth  century  we  know  that  North- 
had    five  Serjeants,  and    this  was   probably  the   original 
number.     The  only  town  in    England  that  had  a  like  number  was 
neighbouring  borough  of  Leicester. 
_A11  Ihc  five  Serjeants  were  termed   serjeants-at-mace.    but  the 
•erjeant,  who  was  probably  appointed  at  the  time  when   it 
jc  customary*  to  carry  a  great  mace  before  the  mayor,  was  a 
>re  important  functioa^>ry  than  his  fellows,  was  clad  in  a  superior 
:ry,  and  was  generally  known  as  the  mayor's  serjeant,  or  serjeant 
I0  ibc  great  mace. 

Of  thia  functionary  we  specially  treat  in  the   succeeding  sub- 
rision.  but  it  may  be  here  remarked  that  after  the  town  was 
ivided  into  five   wards— north,  south,  east,    west,  and  chequer- 
mayor's  serjeant  took  special  charge  of  the  chequer,  or  market 
rd  (which  was  by  tar  the  smallest  and  most  central),  and  therein 
red  summonses  and  discharged  other  official  duties,  in  the  same 
Gunner  as  bis  bretliren  did  tn  their  wards. 

Looked  at  from  another  point  of  view,  the  idea  with  regard  to 
iheie  five  scrjcants  was  that  the  senior  serjeant  was  specialty 
ailacliett  to  the  mayor,  whilst  the  other  four  scr\'ed  the  two  bailifTs, 
aifh^yare  not  infTcijuenlly  described  as  Serjeants,  or  scrjcants  of 
the  tiailiflK. 


74 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


Id    an    order    of    the    assembly    of    1412,  given    io    the    LUer. 
Custumarum,  they  are  spoken  of  u  Serjeants  of  the  ballifla 
special    ordioaiice   of    1391,    from   the   same    source,   prohibits 
exactions  on  tbc  part  of  the  serjeants,  calb  them  the  mace-bcai 
of  the  bailiffs.     This  title  is  also  a&signed  to  Ihem  in  the   oAlb 
late  Elizabethan  date,  in  the    Batetnan  copy   of   the    Norlham 
ctistomory  ; — 

Saeramentum  Serjigittium  hallierum. 
Yon  Uiatl  make  Irae  iiUchmcntB  and   (nw  aiuwen:*  ^ve   to   the   CrMrK^ 
•hall  mjyt  ktvc  ytf  ClicitU,  as  you  be  tnfonncil  of  iheia.  wul  ktvc  jtf  M"  ( 
in  truths,  and  doe  fat  wrong*  lo  tl>«  paopi*,  «k1  you  tkall  uka  no*  pl*d)[*  ol 
penaiu,  butt  bave  tbem  10  the  Mator  or  BajrltSe*  or  ania  of  rhem  or  anie  ol 
d«p«ti«a  or  la  tba  fiok.  id  dctaak  uf   ptcd^cs,  and  lockc  am]    kepc   the 
!■  Ifc«  gaok  from  tym*  lu   tytn«  safeiic  to  (b«   utt<rtnan   of   yoiir    power,  nnd 
sbal)  doe  oil  thinK*  belaoging  to  jrour  oAcc  to  jroar  cunnyng    or   hnowlnljp, 
iMipe  y«*  Cod  tn  Chriit  Jeau«. 

The  carrying  of  maces  is  a  highly  interesting   subject,  and  has 
been  admirably  worked  out  by  Mr.  St.  John  Hope  in  his  recent 
on    Corporaiion    Plate    and    fnsign ta    of   Office      S u ffice    it 
to   say   that  civic    inaces    may   be  divided    into    two   classes — ft 
Serjeants',  or  small  maces  carried  by  serjeant5>at<mace  as  emble 
of  authority  :  and  (2)  great,  or  mayors'  maces,  bome  before  a 
as  a  mark  of  dignity  and  of  delegattMl  royal  authority. 

Nortliampton  is   happy  in   the  possession  of   four  of   the  smiQ 
Serjeants'  maces,  an  honour  which  she  shares  with  only  seren  oll>cr 
towns.     Although  they  are  none  of  them  of  great  age,  they  were 
undoubtedly  made,   at  their   respective  dates,   to   succeed  ones 
older  use.    During  the  time  that  the  mayor'»  serjeant  acted  as  ti 
officer  for  the  chequer  ward  there  would  certainly  be  a  fifth 
mace,   but   this   lias   now   disappeared.      Theie  small   niaces 
carried  by  the  serjeants  when  serving  3  summons   or   undertJiki 
any  other  official  duty.     To  resist  anyone  presenting  this  emblem  of 
authority,  hearing  the  royal  amis,  would  be  a  most  serious  affair, 
this  same  idea  survives  in  painting  a  crown  or  V.K.  on  a  constalilc* 
staff-    The  liver>-  coats  of  the  serjeanls  were  iisuiilty  supplied  on  t 
breast   with  a  sniall  pocket  and  loop,  for  the  safe  carrying  o{ 
mace. 

The  smallest  of  these  (Plate  I.)  is  only  Sin.  lung,  with  a  head  6{in 
circumference.     It  it  of  brass,  somewhat  thickly  gilt.    Tlic  gtobul 
head  is  divided  by  a  foliated  ornament  into  four  panels,  coiiuuoi 
respectively,  in  high  relief,  tlie  letter  I,  a  rose,  the  letter  R,  and 


CIVIC  GOVF.RSMRST  AND  STATE. 


75 


hait  U  ilivideti  by  an  encircling  band,  and  terminates 
with  four  elaborate  projectiag  Aan^^es.  On  the  flat  button  at  the  end 
U  s  Si  Gcorg-c's  cross  in  a  shield,  with  the  numeral  "  1 "  cul  at  a 
liter  date.  Tbi»  mace,  which  ia  one  of  the  smallest  in  the  kingdom, 
i*  of  the  ddite  of  James  [..  Itiough  popularly  assigned  to  king  John : 
on  the  summit  arc  the  royal  arms,  with  suppurlcns,  us  borne  by  the 
Stuarts.  Possibly  it  may  be  of  the  year  1608,  when  King  James 
-and  Queen  Anoc  made  their  first  royal  entry  into  Northampton,  from 
Holdenby.  aiid  were  met  In  solemn  estate  by  the  corporation  at  the 
north  gate. 

The  other  three  mafcs  (Plate  1.).  which  arc  respectively  14},  13}, 

and  12^  inches  in  length,  are  also  all  brass-gilt,  and  not  silver-gilt,  as 

Mated  in  Messrs.  Jewitt  and  Hope's  work.     The  head  of  each  is  en- 

ctrrled  by  a  iow  coronet  of  crosses  and  flcur-dclLs.  and  bears  a  rose, 

a  ihislle.  and  a  harp,  all  crowned,  and  a  castle,  supported  by  two 

Uons,  fur  the  l<ofough  arms.     On  the  lop  o(  the  head  of  the  longest 

mace  are  the  ro^al  arms,  as  borne  by  the  Stuarts,  temp.  Cliarles  11., 

fi   the  other  two    the  royal    arms,   as    borne    by   George   I. 

I  II.J     On    the    button  at  the  bases  of  these  maces  are  the 

iBlMn  arms,  and  the  numerals  2,  3,  and  4  respectively. 

In  1733  Brian  Alliston.  the  mace-bearer,  caused  to  be  drawni  up, 

■r  — -.ndiloquent    language  and  in  best  court  hand,  a  long  formal 

uriit,  executed  by  town  clerk  Howell  in  th*  book  of  orders, 

Kerehr  Itc  professes,  out  of  the  respect  and  esteem  for  the  corpo- 
ioii  of  %vhich  he  had  been  an  official  for  forty  years,  to  voluntarily 
c  tu  llw  mii>or  and  aldermen  "  as  a  free  gift  four  brass  maces  of 
difiercat  %acs  doubly  gilt  with  gold."  to  be  kept  at  the  house  of  the 
lyor  and  to  be  carried  by  the  four  Serjeants  along  with  the  great 
befiirc  the  mayor  when  he  goes  to  church,  and  on  all  other 
lions  when  the  great  niace  is  carried,  etc.,  etc.     The  document 
¥rortb  the  paper  it  is  written  on,  for  the  small  maces  were  no 
•'•-  r-roperty  of  Brian  .Mliston  than  of  the  town  scavenger  or  of 
-  old  alms  women  of  St,  Thomas's.     Possibly  the  whole 
ir  was  a.  cumbersome  joke  of  AlUston,  who  became  so  frolicsome 
ihiH  old  age 

The  (olIuH'ing  extracts  and  quotations  from  the  town  records  will 

name  futther  insight  into  the  varying  and  varied  duties  of  the 

Serjeants,  their  dress,   and  their    salaries.     Monday  was  the 

ilar  day  for  the  meeting  of  the  mayor's  rnurl,  or  petty  sessions 

should  now  call  it,  and  the  6rst  order  of  assembly  that  we 


76 


NORTHAMFTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


are  able  to  give  witJi  reference  to  the  Serjeants,  of  the  year  1559, 
refers  to  tKeir  preparation  for  the  weekly  court. 

Ii  is  oidained  ihat  ever;  Fridaj:  the  lllj  wrjaniM  Mltid  aitornAn  tmmediaulic 
after  th«y  have  weighted  and  brought  Mr.  Maj<:>r  lo  the  Ckiirchc  ibnl  thcjr  and 
every  at  (hem  sh:ill  repair  to  (he  Awanle  bookc  And  then  and  Ibcrv  thall  apoivt 
and  BgrcA  upon  all  suche    mnticn  as   shall  procede  in  the  law  upon  tbn  Moadaj 

next  tttiaiiige  upan   ptiinf  <•(   everr    on«  thnt   innkilliv   iJcfsiiUe  at   ihp  liiiw   spmntod 

to  pay  the  firit  lime  xi)*  iht  wcond  (imr  ax**  and  the  third  timt  ij'  to  the  poor 
man*  bMi<. 

F^ch  of  the  four  Serjeants,  as  has  been  already  stated,  was 
assiyaed  to  one  of  the  four  outer  wards  of  the  town— north,  south, 
cast,  and  west — whilst  the  mayor's  .serjeaiit  had  special  duties  in  the 
chequer  or  market  ward.  In  1586  it  was  ordered  that  the  serjeant  of 
each  quarter,  together  with  the  constable,  was  to  be  at  the  command 
of  the  alderman  of  the  quarter  for  all  reasonable  service.  At  the 
same  time  the  Serjeants  were  ordered  to  call  en  their  respective 
aldermen  three  times  every  week  lo  know  their  pleasure. 
On  April  igth,  1594,  it  was  agreed 

That  the  Serieanlei  to  the  BaylifFc  for  the  tynw  being  shall  from  henccforthc 
JUeIm  becoine  tiauiKlc  with  sullident  sureties  leversltie  bv  good  and  toffiaent 
obJi][ali»n*  to  lh«  saide  bailtf1e«  for  (he  tyme  being  for  the  keeping  of  the 
Mfc  and  sure  within  the  gaole  without  e»cape  ol  them  or  anle  of  tUvm. 

The  assembly  agreed  in  1636 

That  ibece  ahsll  be  letters   of  Atlomey  mnde  to    tHe  taure  Tiijiaiiln  to 
all  monjris  due  to  iho  Corporation  by  several  «ch<fdul«s  out  of  the  ExttMpt&rfnH 
t>me  lo  tyme  as  well  nowe  as  hereafter  upon  anie  occasion. 

The  court  of  aldermen  claimed  the  right  lo  appoint  the  Ser- 
jeants. In  1655  John  Silsby,  one  of  the  four  Serjeants,  was  put 
in  prison  upon  an  execution  at  the  suit  of  alderman  GifTord.  The 
alderman  considered  that  he  thereby  forfeited  his  office,  and  they 
chose  John  Crick  in  his  place. 

tn  April,  1695,  the  minutes  of  the  aldermen's  court  record 

That  Henry  Dover  one  of  the  Serjeants  alt  the  Mace  beinjf  verty  anctent  aad 
Infinne  be  pliiced  in  the  HlmeshiMiie  in  the  loome  of  Wlddour  Utctf 

dead,  Aod  that  he  doe  t)igiij;iic  up   his  place  »a  s  serjeant.     And  alt  the  wame  tyit* 
Valentine  Sterenion  m-as  Elected  Serjeant  alt  the  Mace  to  tnalcn  up  th>  number  of 
the  4  Serjeant*,  And  then  ordered  ihnt  the  Serjeants  be  allowed  doth  to  make  thcffl 
Cnwnii,  their  Cownai  being   very  old   tnrne    and    nisty  ;    And    thit   the  Caume  of 
eirery  Serjeant  that  dyci  or  resigns  itp  his  pUce  or  oihetnise  thall  le:are  his  pbc»* 
shall  be  kIvcd  to  the  serjeJint  ibal  sh-ill  tuccecd  him  in  his  place. 

In  July,  1695,  Williara  Wallis  and  Brian  Alliston  were  sworni 


CIVIC   GOVERNMBNT  AND  STATE. 


77 


ri 


the  mayor  and  aldermen  as  serjeants-aUmacc  in    the   mom 
John  Caporne  and  John  Stamford  then  displaced- 
The  court  of  aldenncn  decided  in  [702.  in  order  the  better  to 
maintain  the  cleanliness  of  the  streets,  thai  the  four  serjcants  should 
sent  unto  the  mayor  any  nuisance  of  togs,  stones,  ruhbi^h.  dirt 
dung  laid  in  the  streets,  with  the  name  oi  the  offender,  and  that 
ever)*  such  presentment  the  Serjeants  should  receive  4d. 
New  gowns  were  provided  for  the  scrjeants  in   1705. 
As  an  instance  of  iheir  perquisites,  it  may  be  mentioned  that  on 
.  Thomas'  day,    1707,  each  of  the  serjeants,  in   addition  to  ale, 
twieived  is.  6d. 

The  mace-bearer  and  the  four  serjeants-at-mace  were  new 
dMhcd  in  1728  at  the  exjiense  of  the  corporation,  btit  had  to  give  a 
written  undertaking  to  the  mayor  to  return  the  clothes  if  they  should 
nsi|[n  or  be  turned  out  of  ufficc  within  three  year^. 

In  1735  one  of  thL-  scrjeants  was  dismissed  "  for  his  ill-manners  in 
tpuliiag  and  uttering  contemptible^  disrespectful!  words  oE  hb 
Misters  the  Mayor  and  Aldermen,"  and  in  the  following  year  another 
wriemi  was  dismissed  (or  absenting  himself  from  the  town  for 
i»v  months. 

In  1759  we  first  read  of  the  scrjeanttt  superintending  the  weighing 
(H  better  at  the  market,  for  which  they  received  a  special  fee.  Like 
ettries  b  subsequent  years  are  frequent. 

Tic  chamberlain's  accounts  for  1768  show  tliat  each  of  the  four 
wjwnls  received  a  salary  of  30s. 

Tbc  court  of  aldermen  in  1771  ordered  new  coats  and  hats  for 
At  Iwif  Serjeants,  and  directed  that  they  should  wear  no  others 
wlitti  cinpIo>'ed  upon  comporation  business. 

In  1773  a  guinea  was  paid  for  four  hats  for  the  four  Serjeants, 
wi  at  the  same  time  los.  6d.  was  paid  for  "  Dying  5  Serj* 
Gowm"  In  1777  five  hat*  were  provided  for  llic  four  Serjeants  and 
cnn,  "the  Utter  being  laced  with  Gold,"  at  a  charge  of  £2  2s. 
Four  bats  were  again  purchased  for  the  four  scrjeants  for  a 
BuiAea  in  1784,  "Cloth  and  materials"  the  same  jrear  for  the 
**"**  (out  officials  was  charged  jCj  15s.  (id.  When  the  new  charter 
^^"T^ed,  in  1796,  the  serjeanis'  hats  must  have  been  of  a  better 
<P»lity.  Iflr  Ihcy  then  cost  £z  8s..  whilst  the  rest  of  their  livery, 
coats  Ukd  itimming,  cost  £-j  133.  3d.  'ITiey  do  not  seem  to  have 
had  new  gowns  ai  that  dale.  New  gowns  for  the  four  sergeants, 
the  mace-bcarcT.  and  the  two  beadles  cost,  in  1800.  3^29  10s.  8d. 


78 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


In  1806  the  four  sergeants  received  six  gruiDcas  for  attending 
mayor  to  church,  c:c.,  "  in  Ueu  of    Beer." 

The  four  hats  in  1808  cost  £3  I3».,  whilst  "cloth  and  material 
for   clothing    the    Serjeants    at    Mace  "*  amounted    to    j^i8   gs.    jd. 
The   hats   soon    again    rose    much    in    value,  and    we   suppose  ioj 
statcliness.     A  single  hat  for  a  new  scrjeant  in  1809  nas  19s.  6d.^ 
whilst  four  new  onea  in  181 1    cost  £C   8d. 

In  1816  the  Serjeants  were  paid  £j  17s.  in  lieu  of  the  small] 
tolls ;  and  tn  1833  wc  find  that  they  were  each  paid  a  salary  of! 
six  guineas. 

The  Mayor's  Serjeant  and  the  Great  Mace. 

The  chief    sergeant    of    the    lown,   usually    termed   the   mayor's] 
Serjeant,  and    sometimes    the    serjeant  of   the  mace,  or  serjcant  to 
the  great  mace,  was  appointed  for  life,  during  his  good  behaviour, 
by  the  court  of  aldermen.     Occasionally,  however,  in  earlier  days, 
the  assembly    made    this    appointment,   though    perhaps    this    ma/H 
have  only  been  a  conlirming  of  the  previous  act  of    the  aldermea.fl 

The  mayor  and  aldermen,  in  April,  1567,  chose  James  Thacke- 
ray to  be  mayor's  scrjeant.  He  was  promoted  to  this  office  from 
one  of  the  ordinary  serjeantehips  which    he  had  obtained    in  1565- 

The  following  form  of  oath,  in  a  late  Elizabethan  hand,  is  tali 
from  the  I5atcman  copy  of  the  Northampton  customary  :  — 

Thi  Maiors  Sebjeaxts  Oatnk. 
Thou  shall  true  Sumoni  ntid  true  Aitachmenti  tnn.1co,  u  thou  art  bydde  bf 
Maior,  Thoii    ihnlt  truly   s«yx«   tnessures  stirt    waij;Kt«s,    nnd    tTu\y    cfUele   Ihca^l 
Thou  shall  truly  taAkt  llie  1bv«jc«  of  ihr  cscreatps  ttui  ^huli  be  jnlgn«d  (o  thw  sndi 
thy  M"  (muton),  and  cannon  prolitt  doe.  And  ibou  nbalt  doc  no  mm  wrangtt  U 
thy  power.  So  hetpe  thee  God, 

Tn    15K.S,    it    was    resolved   that    the    mayor's   serjcant    should] 
summon  the   two  aldermen,  the  two  hailifis,  and   the   two  of   the] 
forty-eight,  who  had  to  accompany  the  mayor  to  the  com  market 
from  time  to  time. 

At  an  assembly  held  on  September  26th,  1589,  John  Glov«,< 
yeoman,  was  appointed  to  the  office  of  mayor's  serjeant  during^ 
his  good  behaviour. 

In  the  following  October,  it  wrs  agreed  that  the  four   serjeaotGi 
should  always  pay  to  the    mayor's  serjcant,  at  the  making  of  tfaej 
panel,  all    such  fees  as   were  due   to  him   for    the   summoning  of' 
jurors  between  party  and  party,  namely,  every  townsman  sd., 
every  foreigner  4d. 


CIVIC  GOVERNMENT  AND  STATE. 


79 


m 


'fom  a  complaint  made  by  the  mayor  in  1603,  it  appears 
that  up  to  that  date  the  chief  magistrate  was  held  responsible  for 
providing  the  mayor's  serjeant  with  gown,  clothes,  and  wages, 
he  assembly  then  ordered  the  mayor  should  be  relieved  of  this 
bility,  and  that  the  chamber  should  also  pay  four  pounds 
annually  to  the  mayor's  serjeant. 

An  order  of  the  assembly  of  February  1st,  1608,  is  of  par- 
ticular interest  with  regard  to  the  historj-  of  the  great  mace.  It 
V4S  then  resolved  that : — 

Whwifeu  Edmrd  Smith,   now  *eri«anl  lo  the  mace  of    lli«  latyor   did    ■{aiolt 

kk  &!•"■  laie  coming  let  th«  Corporaliun  iravsile  to  London  about*  the  Repair*  of 

Ut  nacB  i«  rcgBid  It  w*i  fomcwbai  lulnou*,  which  snide  m«rc  could  not    t>c   well 

IBWoded,  ace  u   it  wb«  broken  in  pi«<«i  and  Ike  unw  bein^  broken   in  piece*  did 

k  the  whole  amount  in  valu«    to  the    sume    of  iiij"  itj*  is*  And   thereupon   a   new 

MM  was  madv  al  th«  luvms  chai)^  and  whercia*  at  this  HMvmblic  thn  said  Edward 

Smitli  hath  ben*  a  patitiotwr  to  have  altowarc*  for  the  old  maca  broken  at  afora* 

Nil  he  arcing  that  ibe  old  tnace  cost  Mm    Tenn    paiindei    which    upon    the   uJe 

teee(  did  not  amnunt  abov«  the  value  o(  iilj"  Hj*    is'  aforH.iid    Anrj    further   (or 

fa  (btrjn  in  tnvi\\m%  about  the  repnire  of  the  said  mace,     ll  i*  ordered  that  The 

t^  Cdwtrd  Smith  ihall    have  paid  hitn  out  of  the  lowne   Chamber    Siae  poundea 

ittocDrihitlinEe*  awl  fours  peace  bj  the   ChamberUln    of  (be  said   towne  in  fals 

hDoasii^ion  for  the  old  mace  and  hii  charge*   in  trarailinz  about   the    repaira 

d(h>  nid  maca 

U  1647  we  find  incidental  mention  of  Simon  Einsworthe  as 
Bwce-bcarer,  but  his  appointment  may  have  been  at  an  earlier 
^t  ttian  this.     He  was  succeeded  in  1652  by  John  Cole. 

hww  agreed  in  1652  that  the  mayor's  serjeant  should  not  have 
""y  We  or  voice  in  any  matter,  cause,  or  thing  whatsoever  pro- 
pounded or  discussed  in  any  assembly. 

Oo  Aopist  28,  1658,  the  court  of  aldermen  appointed 

"*t*1  Lee  (entlcman  mayor's  urjeant  lo  the  grcate  Mace  or  Macebearcr  10  long 
■BaeAtUhtharebimMlfe  well  in  tl)c  lame  oflice  and  toe  aa  the  caide  Mr,L.o<>doe 
**'■'¥  kiMfca  (he  adling  of  Bcue  or  Ale  at  all  times  (ram  the  iCth  dajr  of 
StfTMitiu  KS  ensnioge. 

M».  Henry  Lee,  whose  experiences  as  town  clerk  have  already 
*•*•  ttcorded,  gave  up  hi*  serjeantship  in  1668,  having  for  six 
T**"  fulfilled  the  double  duties  of  town  clerk  and  mace-bearer. 
He  ttjs  succeeded  by  his  son,  Henrj'  Lee,  jun. 

Maittew  Barnes  was  appointed  to  the  office  by  the  aldermen 
u*  Scp(«nlttt,  i6Sg.  The  following  entry  in  reference  to  his 
••wy  appears  in  the  minutes  of  the  court  of  aldermen  for  169^ : — 


So 


NORTHAMPTON    ROROUCH    RECORDS. 


That   Mr,   Mathew   Bawnet  the    Macebcircr    to    the    Mayor   of   tho   Towae   ahd 
yearly   [«cetve  ot  lli«  Clumberbins  u(  clii?  Corporation   the    fum    oi    ThiH    Po«fid< 
lo  be  payd  him  alt  Li«ly  lOxy  and  Michdelmiu  for  his  wayting  and  attending  upon 
the  Mayor  and    Aldcrtneii. 

In  connection  with  this  salary  it  should  be  remembered  that 
there  were  variotis  perquisilea  and  occasional  fees  attached  to  the 
offire  of  mayor's  Serjeant ;  it  was  vatucd  at  the  time  ot  Barnes' 
appointmriit  at  about  twelve  guineas.  Matthew  Barnes  got  too 
intirm  for  the  due  fullilinent  of  his  duties  within  a  year  or  so  of 
his  appointment,  bui  was  allowed  to  do  the  work  by  deputy,  one 
judkins  being  nominated  for  the  purpose  at  a  salary  of  3s.  a  week. 

On  February  5th,  1702,  the  aldermen  appointed  Mr.  Nicholas 
King-  to  be  mayor's  serjeant,  or  mace  bearer,  in  the  place  of  Mr, 
Matthew  Barnes,  lately  deceased.  At  the  same  it  was  ordered 
that  Mrs-  Barnes  should  have  the  next  vacant  place  in  the 
hospital.  In  1706,  a  new  gown  was  ordered  to  be  provided  for 
Mr.  King,  the  mace  bearer. 

There  was  "a  full  and  friendly  debate"  between  the  mayor 
and  aldermen,  in  1712,  in  relation  to  the  choice  of  a  successor  to 
Mr.  King,  who  had  recently  died.  Eventually.  William  Barcole, 
barber,  was  elected  in  Mr.  King's  place,  upon  condition  that 
Nicholas  Stratford,  cordwainer  (over  and  besides  his  share  of  the 
tolls  on  Wood  hill)  shall  receive  £4.  per  annum  from  the  town 
chamberlain  as  mace  bearer's  salary-,  ami  that  William  Barcole 
further  pay  to  Kicholas  Stratford  £2  P^''  annum  out  of  the  fees 
and  perquisites  of  his  office.  The  records  do  not  state  why  the 
rww  mace  bearer  was  to  be  thus  heavily  fined  in  favour  of 
Nicholas. 

In  1717  four  pounds  was  paid  for  "new  clouthing"  for  the 
mace-bearer. 

The  curious  agreement  aa  lo  the  £j  payable  from  the  mace- 
bearers  due  to  Nicholas  Stratford  underwent  a  change  in  17181 
for  in  that  year  the  mayor  and  aldermen  decided  that  the  salary 
of  it  should  go  direct  to  their  mace-bearer.  William  Barcole,  and 
that  the  whole  of  the  £j  should  be  paid  to  Nicholas  by  the 
chamberlain  for  the  time  being. 

Gowns  for  the  macc-bcarcr  and  one  of  the  Serjeants  cost,  in  ij3ti 
£y  2s.  6d. 

In  1729  the  mace.bearer,  in  common  with  the  four  serjeants-at 
mace,  were  new  clothed  at  the  expense  of  the  corporation,  each  o 


I 

I 
I 


CIVIC  GOVKKNMENT  AND  STATE. 


8i 


being    required  to  give  notes  to  the  mayor  to  return  the  »ame 
'i  ibey  should  re<iign  or  be  turned  out  of  office  uilliin  tlie  space  oF 
I  ftiee  years.     The  cloth  and   trimmings  for    the    five  gowns  cost 
iCt4  IS».  od. 

kThe  court  of  aldermen,  on  April  2i8t,  1731,  elected  N'icholas 
alfotd  as  mayor's  serjeant  or  mace-bcarer,  in  the  room  of  William 
rcole,  deceased.  It  was  ordered  that  he  receive  the  whole  of 
!  salarj',  profits,  and  perquisite-S  of  the  mace -bearer's  office  without 
any  deduction,  and  thai  hW  pension  oi  £,•]  and  his  ithare  oi  the  tolls 
of  Wood  hiti  should  cease. 

In  177a.  on  June  t3th.  John  Moore,  the  elder,  was  drctcd  macc- 
bearcr.  in  place  of  Nicholas  Stratford,  deceased  ;  aiidat  the  same  time 
John  Moore  was  displaced  and  removed  from  the  number  of  the 
eight  and  forty  burgesses. 

On    March   30th.    1725,    Brian    Allislor.    one    of    the    ordinarj- 

rjeants-at-mace,  was  promoted  by  the  aldermen  to  the  office  of 

.-e-bearer,  in  the  room  of  John  Moore,  decea.<;ed,  and  the  oath  of 

duly  administered. 

Brian  AHiston,  who  had  for  some  time  been  unable,  "  by  reason 

his  lameness  and  other  infirmities  attending  old  age,"  to  attend 

(olhr  duties  of  his  office,  resigned   on  August  7th,  1735.     He  was 

succeeded  by  Walter  Cockcrcll.  the  oldest  of  the  four  serjeants-at- 

twce,  upon  condition  of  Walter  aPlowing  Brian  .-Mhslon  a  pension 

of  £8  out  o(  the  salary,  profits,  and  perquisites  of  the  office  for  the 

term  uf  his  natural  life,  "in  consideration  of  his  long  and  faithful 

wxirices  to  the  corporation,"     At  the  next  meeting  of  the  aldermen's 

Mwt  a  new  mace-f>carcr's  gown  was  ordered  for  Mr.  Cockerell, 

And  the  diARiberlain's  accounts  show  that  it  cost  j£^3- 

Bnan  .Mliston,  on  his  resignation  of  the  office  of  mayor's  Serjeant 
or  maoc-bcarer,  was  elected  by  the  aldermen  as  one  of  the  forty- 
c^lil.  His  nenly.found  leisure  seems  to  have  been  too  much  for 
theoU  matt.  The  court  of  aldermen,  on  October  7th,  1736,  ordered 
thai 

Bmn  AIAfton  for  bit  nunjr  and  {rrquenl  MUbeluiviourx  ind  diiortlert]''  Pnclicet 

'  «>**  lim^  and  panirubrlj   for   kia    Drunkenneu    aad    Misbehaviour   U    the 

^'  rewil  Mkbulmas  d*jf  last  ind  on  Ihfl  day  following  in  rvvtllisf  about 

Succb  of  ihi»  Town  when  be  via  dninh.  wriib  one  of  the  BaUifti  Gowni  upon 

Back,  4nd  deriding  and    ridiculing  the   Corpomtion    as    well    »s     Sxpoaing 

^"■••U.  b«  ruMTva  md  ditplmd  (rom  hl«  office  of  an    Eight  and  forty    man  or 

«  tUi  Carponiion,  aoA  ho  Is  hvrtby  removed  and  diiplaccd  accordinglj. 

C 


Sz 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


At  the  court  held  oo  June  agtb,  1743,  Thomas  Stuart,  Thpsefiiot 
scrjcant-at-macc,  was  promoted  to  the  ofBce  of  mace-bearer,  in  ibt 
room  of  Walter  Cockerell,  deceased,  but  with  the  proviso  that  hr 
gave  a  pension  of  ,^4  to  Samuel  Scriven,  a  superannuated  scrjeair. 
at-macc.  The  regular  salary  of  the  raace-bearer  was  at  this  linir 
raised  to  six  guineas. 

Tlie  next  appointment  was  that  oF  Joseph  Satchwcll,  who  wu 
elected  in  i;66. 

In  June,  1776,  the  court  of  aldermen  appointed  Keeling 
Williamson  mayor's  serjeant  or  mace-bearer,  in  the  room  cd 
Joseph  Satchwcll,  the  late  mace-bearer,  deceased, 

In  February,  1791,  the  same  court  elected  Samuel  Wainwr^kl. 
clock  and  u-atchmnker,  in  the  room  of  Keeling  Williamson,  deceas<d 
On  his  resignation,  in  1799,  Wainwright  vcas  allowed  by  the 
assembly  a  pension  of  /I5,  in  addition  to  the  allowance  made  turn 
by  his  successor,  for  hin  more  comfortable  support. 

John  Wright  in  1799,  Charleji  Balaam  in  1801,  and  John  Alllsta 
in  1830,  were  the  next  three  holders  of  this  dignified  uflicc. 

In  1813  it  was  agreed  to  pay  the  macc-bearcr  an  additional 
of  ten  guineas  for  relieving  the  vagrants,  such  salary  to  cumrocsK 
from  Michaelmas,  1809,  when  he  Grst  began  to  relie\-e  the  vagri 
by  direction  of  the  mayor. 

The  macc-bearcr,  in  1833,  received  a  salary  of  J^2'j,  in  adi 
to  the  "small  tolls."    The  nature   of  these    tolls    is   explained  ni 
a  subsequent  section. 

The  GRF.AT  Mace  (Plate  1),  still  carried  before  the  mayor  bjr 
mayor's  serjeant,  is  of  silver-gilL    It  is  of  the  usual  Charles  II.  I 
and,  though  somewliat  sliorier  than  the  average  of  great 
remarkably  well  praporltoned,  there  being  an  absence  ol 
top-heaviness  or  of  the  excessive  elongation  which  are  the  respectii 
faults  of  not  a  few  examples.     Tlie  workmanship,  whet}ier  at  one 
two  periods,  is  excellent  throughout,  and  most  exceptionally 
preserved. 

It  measures  45^  inches  in  length,  the  circumference  of  tlw;  head' 
16  inches,  of  the   foot-knop  10  inches,  and  of  the  -itafr  3J   inch* 
The  weight   is  lolb.    140Z.    The  head  is  surmounted  by  an 
arched  crown  of  four  curved  ribs,  supporting  tlie  usual  orb 
croBs.   Round  tlie  head  are  four  compartmcnls,  divided  by  I'.  '*  ' 
human  figures  or  caryatides,  arc  the  ruyal  badges  of  a  H 
(France),    rose  (England},   thistle  [Scotland),  and  haqi  (Irelaiic 


CIVIC   COVERNHENT   AND   STATE. 


83 


sunrtouDted  by  a  crown  beCvreen  the  tnitUls  C.R.  Round  the 
is  an  upstanding  rim  of  alternate  crosses  and  fleur-dc-lts.  On 
the  lop  of  the  head,  beneath  the  ojjen  crown,  are  the  quartered 
arms  of  France,  England,  Scotland,  and  Ireland,  within  the  garter, 
and  supported  by  the  lion  and  unicorn,  as  borne  by  the  Stuart 
sovereigns.  The  shaft  is  divided  into  three  parts  by  two  massive 
knops,  and  a  tapering  foot-knop.  The  encircling  knops  are  orna- 
.nented  with  acanthus  teavc<i.  TTic  foot-knap  is  chased  with  roses 
td  thistles,  and  also  bears  in  a  medaHion  the  arms  of  North- 
nptoo.  Belnw  the  head  are  four  elegant  brackets,  tcrminn.ting  in 
uman  faces.  The  shaft  is  most  beautifully  chas.ed  with  a  running 
tlcm  oi  roses  and  thistles.  After  a  careful  comparison  of  the 
^{nat  mace  of  Northampton  with  those  of  the  House  of  Commons, 
U'lceiter,  Chesterfield,  and  others  that  have  been  closely  examined, 
Uii  after  looking  through  the  descriptions  of  a  score  or  two  of  maces 
oi  Ibis  period  in  the  work  of  Messrs.  Jewitt  and  Hope,  it  seems 
mionabte  to  suppose  that  the  shaft  and  knops  of  this  marc,  and 
poHibly  part  of  the  head,  are  of  the  Commonwealth  dale,  and  tlie 
VDtkmanship  of  Thomas  Maundy,  the  celebrated  goldsmith,  of 
London,  to  whom  was  entrusted  the  making  of  the  Houxe  of 
Commons  mace,  and  who  secured  by  resolution  of  the  house,  dated 
June  fnh,  1649 :  "  That  all  other  great  maces  to  be  used  in  this 
CMnmonwealth  be  made  according  to  the  same  forme  and  paterne, 
^  (hat  the  said  Thomas  Maimdy  have  the  making  thereof  and 
**eolher."  Soon  after  ihc  restoration  of  the  monarchy,  this  mace 
Hike  (lot  of  Leicester  and  several  others  still  extant)  would  be 
*HtTfd  in  its  head,  or  have  a  new  head  substituted,  in  order  to 
wfltorm  with  the  revival  of  the  kingly  power.  The  workmanship 
of  must,  if  not  all,  of  the  head  of  the  Northampton  mace  is  obviously 
(liflercnt.  and  somewhat  inferior  to  that  of  the  shaft,  slight  brackets, 
wd  knops. 

'^'iih  regard  to  the  history  of  Northampton's  great  mace,  it  has 
ilready  been  noted  that  the  one  iu  the  possession  of  the  mace-bearer 
"  16(4  was  sold  for  old  silver,  and  a  new  one  purchased,  in  order 
■■«  trace  the  slate  entry  of  James  I.  Alt  that  we  have  been  able  to 
iscrrtain  with  rceard  lo  this  mace,  then  considered  "so  ruinous,"  is 
"  *^*  K'^en  to  ihe  town  in  1460  at  the  time  when  a  new  charter 
W»  granted  by  Henry  VI. 

«■  new  cMie   of   1608   would   probably,  judging  from  extant 
""  of  ihi)t    period,  be  a  simple  affair,  having  an  enlarged 

C  3 


84 


NORTHAMPTON    SOBOUGH    RECORDS. 


circular  head,  surrounded  by  a  cresting.    The  royal  arms  woutd  be 
engraved  on  the  lUtteiied  top. 

In  a  town  that  took  so  decided  a  stand  against  the  monarchy 
at  the  very  beginning  o(  the  greai  civil  war,  it  may  be  safely 
assumed  that  this  special  emblem  of  deputed  royaJ  authority  would 
scon  give  ofTencc,  and  be  disused,  if  not  melted  down.  The 
resolution  of  the  House  of  Commons  in  1640  with  regard  to  maces 
would  be  certain  to  take  effect  in  such  a  borough  as  Northampton, 
and  doubtless  one  of  the  best  of  Maundy's  workmanship  would 
speedily  be  in  use. 

In  1653  it  is  recorded  that  Mr.  Ljiiircncc  Wolaston.  immediately 
after  he  had  taken  his  oath  as  mayor  on  Michaelmas  day,  took  the 
great  mace  away  from  Mr.  Einsworth,  the  mayor's  scrjcant,  and 
gave  it  to  Mr.  Coldwcli,  the  town  derk,  to  carry  home  before  him. 
Further  accounts  of  that  day's  stormy  proceedings  show  that  there 
was  a  great  division  among  the  aldermen  as  to  the  appointment  of 
mayor's  Serjeant,  and  this  was  probably  the  cause  of  Mr.  Wolaston's 
action  with  regard  to  the  mace. 

On  the  restoration  of  the  monarchy,  the  alternate  cross  of  St. 
George  for  England,  and  a  harp  for  Ireland,  with  the  inscription 
"  The  Freedom  of  RngK^nd  by  God's  blesising  restored,"  which  were 
the  embrllishments  of  a  Commonwealth  mace,  would  excite  dis- 
pleasure :  accordingly  we  find  that,  in  1661,  £fio  was  spent  on  a  new 
mare,  or  rather,  as  we  believe,  on  a  new  head  and  fool-knop  to  the 
Conimonwcalth  mace.  Judging  irom  the  cost  of  other  maces  of  this 
date,  ;^8o  would  not  have  sufficed  for  a  complete  one  such  as  that  of 
Northampton, 

In  1666  the  mace  underwent  a  variety  of  vicissitudes.  The 
disturbance  about  the  election  of  mayor,  to  which  reference  has 
already  been  made,  turned,  to  a  considerable  extent,  on  the 
possession  of  the  mace,  as  the  chief  emblem  of  office.  The  ex- 
mayor,  Mr.  Francis  Ptckncr,  refused  to  deliver  it  up  to  his  successor. 
Lord  Manchester,  the  recorder,  appealed  to  the  king  and  parlia- 
ment. The  serjeant-at-arms  of  the  parliament  was  despatched  tO 
Northampton,  and  arrested  Mr.  I'ickacr.  At  last,  after  being  nineteen 
days  in  custody,  the  mace  was  surrendered. 

Jn  the  following  year,  Richard  Rands  was  elected  to  lb< 
mayoralty,  and  when  sworne  in  "  he  made  no  feast  nor  so  much  a* 
made  the  aldermen  drink,  n  thing  not  usual,  but  went  home  a  bad 
way,  and  the  Mace  bearer  carried  the  Mace  under  his  coat." 


86 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RSCORDS. 


From   directions  given  to  Thoma-"!  Coles,  the  bellman,  m  i6a5,, 
for  the  repairing  of  the  pavement  of  the  Woudhill  and  for  sweepin 
it  clean  ever>'  week,  we  find  that  the  Woodhill  tolls  levied  oa  iJl 
dLTts  bringing  fuel  there  were  then  assigned  to  the  holder  of 
bellman's oflice.     Thomas  Coles,  in  common  with  the  sexton  oi  All 
Saints  and  the  town  waits,  received  (according  to  an  order  of  ifa*) 
13s.  4d.  every  two  years  towards  furnishing  him  with  a  blae  rati 
Coles    wa$    also  ordered,    at    the  same  time,  to  always   wear  tk* 
town  recognizances   on  his  sleeve,  according  to  old  custom. 

Geoi^e  Marshall  was  elected  and  sworn  town  crier  in  Aug 
1658.    The  chamberlains  were  forthwith  ordered  to  pro^'ide  kin 
with  a  coat,  and  to  deliver  to  him  the  bcH,  two  staves,  and 
cognisance,  and  to  pay  the    late   crier's   wife,  Widow   Appletifc, 
43.  6d. 

The  crier  was  at  that  time  required— 
*'(i)  to  attend  Mr.  Maior  upon  all  occasions. 
(3)  to  weare  his  Coate  Constantly  and  his  Brazed  Staffc. 

(3)  to  attend  the  woman's  market,  and  keepe  a  place   theare  ioi 

the  Roadc. 

(4)  to  take  Care  that  the  Streates  are  kept  Cleane- 

(5)  to  Cleanse  the  Bridges  and  gates  and  his  part  of  the  bAA] 

place." 

In  1675  the  town  crier  received  3s.  (or  "crj-ing  the  comtoowj 
ajid  assisting  at  branding."      Similar  entries   occur  for  a  aumb 
of  years. 

The  mayor  and  alderman  appointed   John    Boone  in  Oct< 
1696,  to  be  "Towne  Bedle  and  Cryer"  in  the   room  of 
Peedle. 

In  1701  the  same  court  ordered  that  the  crier,  .lexton,  and  hAll- 
keeper  have  livery  coats  the  same  as  formerly. 

At    the    aldermen's    court,    January  30th,    1706-7,    the    miy 
nominated  Daniel  Sanders  to  be  crier  in  Brian  Rushworth's  re 
then   deceased.     The  aldermen    consented,    "  provided   he  bchai 
himself  civilly   and  orderly,  and    if  not   to  be  turned  ouL" 
also  took   office   on  condition  of  paying  Brian  Rushworth's 
a  shilling  per  week. 

In    1718,  on   July    i8tl»,  Daniel   Sanders  was  ejected  from 
ofhce,  "for  many  loose  and  disorderly   Prarliixs  and  particular 
for  his  disrespcclfult  atxl  abusive  behaviour  towards  his  Superior 
The  sexton  of  All  Saints  was  instructed   to  take  an  account 


CIVIC    GOVERNMENT    AND    STATE. 


87 


Ut  proliu  of  the  com  belotiging  to  the  crier,  and  bring  them 
to  tbt  mayor  every  Satucxlay  night,  until  Sanders'  successor  was 
■ppnnted. 

On  September  30th  the  aldermen  elected  Thomas  HaiiMia 
OBUHIM  crier  upon  two  conditions — (i)  that  the  prolits  from 
tbe  toll  of  com  be  sequestered  and  paid  into  the  mayor's 
lusdi  weekly,  until  the  pavement  or  pebbling^  of  the  Market  Hill 
be  put  in  f^pod  repair,  and  (2)  that  when  Hanson  receives  the 
full  profits,  that  then  he  shall  pay  ever)'  Friday  eighteen  pence 
to  kit  sister  towards  her  support  and  maintenance. 

To  Tboma«  Hanson  succeeded  Benjamin  Farrio.  and  on  the 
naaral  of  Farrin  for  misbehaviour  in  1745,  the  aldermen  elected 
RoWn  Moore  to  be  town  crier  in  his  place. 

Od  June  iith,  1750,  Robert  Cox,  one  of  the  serjeaats-at-mace, 
•as  elected  by  the  aldermen  town  crier  in  the  room  of  Samuel 
^ovlkes,  deceased. 

TIk  court  of  aldermen  in  April,  1777,  appointed  John  Smith 
(wb  had  been  one  of  the  four  serjeants)  to  the  oBicc  of  town 
Crier  in  the  raom  of  Robert  Cox,  deceased. 

In  1783  the  same  court  duly  elected  John  Roberts  (who  had 
been  Sag  ourierj  town  crier  in  the  place  of  John  Smith,  deceased. 
With  regard  lo  the  dress  of  the  town  crier,  there  fortunately 
aisi&  in  the  town  museum,  an  oil  painting,  on  panel,  of  'IlKimas 
C«le»  in  161S,  when  that  whlte-bcarded  official  was  79  years  of 
ige.  He  is  represented  in  dark  blue  gown  lined  with  red, 
bearing  the  iouti  arms  embroidered  in  colours  on  the  left  sleeve. 
I  The  sleeve  bad^c  of  stiver  was  worn  on  the  coat,  and  is  con- 
[ttalod  in  the  picture.  In  the  right  hand  is  a  tall  staff  tipped 
with  the  town  arms,  and  in  the  left  a  belt,  with  leather  handle-flap 
At  \h<  top.  Thomas  Coles,  who  was  appointed,  as  we  have  seen, 
1590,  continued  to  act  dll  i6j6,  when  he  was  87  years  old. 
We  now  revert  to  the  references  that  are  made  in  the  records 
to  the  lively  and  iosifinia  of  the  town  cner.  In  1584  the  aswimWy 
firdervd  that  silver  cognizances  should  be  prepared  for  the  crier, 
Htlie  hall-Veepcr,  and  the  wails;  Uie  two  former  were  to  wear 
^^^  ix«nizAnce  or  hufee  on  their  livery  coat  They  were  to  give 
^^ftties  on  appolnUncnt  to  office  for  the  due  return  of  the  badge 
^Hn  their  resignation  or  removal. 

^^    Thcw  silver  badges  arc  still  worn  by  the  crier  and  hall-keeper, 
roucli  worn  with  frequent  us*  and  polishing.     The   best  of 


^ 


88  NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RFCORDS. 

the  two  is  the  hall-kccpcr's,  which  is  figured  on  Plate  II. 
It  Li  of  an  oval  shape,  4^  inches  by  3J[  indies,  bcaruif;  the  town 
anns  in  the  centre,  and  surrounded  by  a  well  executed  floral 
border.  Specimens  of  town  badges  in  use  or  in  museums  remain 
in  twenty-four  English  boroughs,  but  only  two,  besides  Northamp- 
ton, have  badges  of  sixteenth  ccntur>-  date,  namely,  Hereford, 
1583,  and  Eye,  I593. 

The  town  crier's  staff  is  of  black  painted  wood,  with  brass 
ferrule,  and  tip|>ed  with  a  knop  of  brass,  the  whole  surniounted 
with  a  gilded  representation  of  the  town  arms  carved  in  wood. 
Round  thp  knop  is  engraved,  in  letters  much  worn  through 
freyueiit  polishing,  "Ad  usurn  Municipii  Northton  ex  dono  Fi.B. 
Lodon,  1683."  Some  two  centuries  later,  a  town  crier  desired  to 
hand  down  liis  name  to  his  successors  and  others,  for  on  the 
lower  part  of  this  upper  garnishing  of  brass  is  inscribed :  "  J.  T. 
Ward,  Town  Crier,  184 1."  The  staff  now  measures  6fL  3in., 
but  has  recently  been  deprived  of  some  six  inches  of  its  origina] 
stature. 

The  maj-or's  accounts  for  1692  record  the  purchase  of  a  "  blew 
coatc  for  the  Crycr"  at  £t  16s.  id.  In  iji3  the  crier's  coat 
cost  £2  3s.  lod.,  and  two  years  later  £2  14s.  od. 

In  1724  the  badge  was  "new  gilded"  at  a  charge  of  7s.  6d. 
The  head  of  the  cri^^r's  staff  was  mended  and  gilded  at  a  coKt  of 
seven  Bhitlings  in  172S.  A  new  bell  for  the  crter  was  provided 
in  1741,  at  a  cost  of  ten  shillings;  and  in  the  same  year  the 
town  arms  at  the  top  of  hLi  staff  wore  re-gilt  at  the  charge  of 
four  shillings.  The  highest  price  named  for  the  crier's  or  bell- 
man's coat  was  in  1751,  when  it  cost  £2  18s.  His  gown  or 
cloak  required  renewing  much  less  frequently,  and  was  probably 
only  worn  on  special  state  occasions.  In  1704  three  cloaks  and 
lining  were  provided  for  the  bellman  and  two  beadles,  each  one 
of  them  costing  £1   igs.  8d. 

There  arc  two  or  three  references  made  to  the  crier's  cap  in 
the  17th  century,  but  we  cannot  state  the  price,  as  it  is  associated 
with  other  livery.  In  1770  "a  guinea  was  paid  for  the  Crycr's 
Hattc,"  and  in  1777  a  gold-laced  hat  was  provided,  at  a  like 
cost,  to  1825  hats  for  the  crier  and  hall-keeper  cost  £i  16s.,  and 
their  liveries  ;£i2  los.  jd. 

Several  occasional  duties  of  the  town    crier   are    incidentalljr 


90 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


for  the  3  Bellmen."  The&c  must  refer  to  tbe  crier  and  twa 
We  do  ool  quite  undcrstani)  why  a  town  t)ic  ■site  o(  NorthantpNi 
should  have  required  three  bellmen,  but  wc  can  only  suppose  Ikt' 
the  two  beadles  were  used  occasioaaliy  in  this  rapacity,  pcrlupi 
in  cunuection  with  the  numerous  fairs  and  markets  1'hr  bcaiilei, 
io  conjunction  with  the  crier,  were  usually  appointed  to  keepordtf 
round  the  frequent  market  square  honfircs,  cm  occasions  of  oaliond 
thankstpving. 

Tall  staves,  usually  lipped  with  silver  or  metal  knobs,  were  Iltt 
ordinary  emblems  of  the  authority  of  municipal  beadles.  SuA 
staves  arc  stilt  possessed  by  Kaversham,  Norwich,  Bridgeuoflk 
H  ull,  Reading,  and  a  few  other  burou^-hs.  These  stavo  arc,  a>  Hi> 
Hope  points  out,  *'  Uic  deacenilents  and  modem  representatifa  d 
the  oldest  municipal  insignia,  the  virgx,  nands,  or  stavrs  earned 
by  the  Serjeants  as  emblems  of  authority  belorc  the  -idoplioa  ^ 
maces." 

Northampton  possesses  two  such  beadle  staves,  exactly  »imilv- 
They  each  measure  6ri.  gin.  in  heiglit,  and  consist  of  thick  blaci 
painted  wooden  staves,  surmounted  by  rounded  knobs  of  wliitt 
metal,  and  encased  with  similar  metal  for  910.  from  the  top.  t^ 
lower  edge  of  which  is  vandyked.  They  are  of  cxccptiooJ 
appearajice,  and  are  al  least  as  old  as  the  town  crier's  sta0.  I'ntil 
recently  one  of  these  was  carried  by  the  present  town  besAe; 
now  they  are  borne  in  civic  procession  by  Ihc  two  Mnjury 
inspectors.  The  two  corporation  beadles  used  to  head  the  to**"* 
array  with  these  twin  staves  of  simple  construction  but  tmpoii^ 
size. 

With    reference    to    staves,   it  is  of    interest    to  note  that  OB 
December    14th,    1702,  at    the    court   of   aldermen,    "  Mr. 
intimating  the  Thirdboroughs  of   this  townc  had  noe   SlavcA, 
the  Constables  vcrry  meanc  and  unpaynted  short  ones.  It '%»  ^t 
and    Ordered    that    Mr.    Mayor  doe   according    to  his    DtMiretic 
provide   what    are    wanting,    and  order   tbem    to  he    payntcd    by 
Robert  Welsh  a  Debtor  to  the  Corporation  for  hi*  Frccdonnr.  aftdj 
sett  off  the  uharge  of   the  painting  them  upon  the  said  Welsh  hii 
bond." 

Tub  Waits. 
It  was  the  Rood  old  custom  of  mediaeval  England  for  <ver>'  we 
regulated  corporation  to  ofBcially  engage  a  band  of  minstrcU,  callc 
■waits.    They  were  originally  the  watchmen  who  were  ready  M 


CIVIC  GOVERNMENT  AND  STATE. 


9* 


•cmn<I  the  alarm  on  horn  or  trumpet,  or  to  pipe  the  hour&and  different 
«ttcb«%  of  the  night.  Hence  th«y  developed  into  a  band  of 
Bttstcians,  and  iheir  duty  as  watchmen  died  out.  At  the  time  o(  the 
inquiry  into  corporation  life,  made  in  1834,  prior  to  the  Reform  Act, 
only  six  boroughs  retained  the  services  of  waits,  viz.,  Bristol, 
Chester,  Leeds.  Lincoln,  Nottingham,  and  York,  but  wherever  old 
records  and  minutes  exist  (be  the  town  big  or  ttmall)  entries  are 
found  relative  to  the  tonn  musicians. 

They  always  wore  a  special ly<de vised  variety  of  the  town  livery, 

and  round  their  neck  a  silver  badi^e,  usually  attached  to  a  collar. 

No  one  was  suffered  to  play  in  public  save  the  licensed  waits.     They 

played  in  the  town  at  variable   times  for  the  gratification  of  the 

inhabitants,  and    were  usually  allowed  to  seek  a  dole,  but  on   all 

fpccial  civic  occasions  they  were  expected  to  play^  and  received  an 

iduKmledgment  from  the  town  purse. 

The  firiit  mention  of  the  town  waits  or  minstrels  of  Northampton 
Aal  wc  have  noticed  is  under  the  year  1584,  when  (he  assembly  made 
tkeUlowing  order  :— 

■TTial  tl»e  waylcs  of  the  towne  shall  have  each  of  them  a  livercy 
jtirdy  and  the  conysaunce  of  the  Towne  in  silver  putting  in 
inenycB  to  redeliver  the  cc^nisaunce  at  their  depanut*  " 

li  1590  order  was  made  that  "Thomas  Bentley  one  of  the 
waigktcs  of  the  seyde  towne  "  should  have  a  liverj'. 

Tbe  order  for  annual  livery,  made  in  1584,  was  repealwl  in  1592, 
•hen  it  was  agreed  "  that  the  towne  wayies  shall  have  their  liveries 
wisycarc  and  evcric  seconde  yeare  after  and  not  other  waves." 

In  the  6rst  year  of  king  James  the  question  of  the  livery  of  the 
niin«i«Js  again  came  before  the  assembly,  when  it  was  agreed 
"Tint  tlw  wayle  players  commonlic  called  the  towne  waytes  in 
i^Cvd of  their  humble  suite  shall  at  this  instant  have  fourtie  and 
eigm  shillings  towards  furnishing  of  them  with  coate  clothes;  And 
tb»l  from  hcDcvfourth  cvcric  seconde  yearc  the  saidc  waytes  shall 
have  Iheit  coaic  clolhrs  allowed  them  by  the  towne  chamber  in 
sttcbc  Mrte  and  in  everie  rcspectt  as  ys  sett  downe  in  order 
heretofore  nude  in  that  belialfe  and  not  othcr\visc." 

1  (lis  Order  was  again  varieii  in  1624,  when  it  was  enacted  that 

the  tofwne  wajte  or  musicians  "  should  have  13s.  4d.  apiece  allowed 

em  every  two  years  towards  furnishing  them  with  "  blew  coates," 

ii<     Were  lobe  finished  and  made  up  at  their  own  chargcR.  and  to 

poi  "P«"Aarcoals  the  town  cognizance. 


ga 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


In    1655    Lbe    assembly    ordered    "that  Ibc   waytes  shall  han 
yverie  cloakes  but  once  everj*  foure  yeares  according   to  the  <i\i 
wages  formerly    paid    unto    them    which    was    six    shiUings  figh 
pence  a  piece  yearly  to  every  fme  of  them." 

Doring:  tlie  untitled  times  immediately  preceding,  and  jiisl  alter 
the  Restoration,  the  payment  of  the  town  minstrels  got  in  antac. 
On  November  10th,  [662,  the  assembly  pas»»i  the  following  tOD-^ 
lution :— "  That  the  Towne  Wayle  Players  be  allowed  for 
yearely  Wages  markcs  apcccc  towards  Ihcire  Liveries,  At>d 
they  be  payd  their  Wages  la  Arreare  being  Nobles  apcccc  Asr 
lour  ycarcs  last  past/' 

I'hc  Leicester  corporation  dismUscd  tbcir  band  of  waits  n 
1671  because  of  disorderly  character,  and  we  find  from  ibnt 
oiinutes  that  they  engaged  the  Northampton  waits  to  take  their  pladc 
On  Easter  Monday  and  at  the  May  Day  fair. 

The  chamberlain's  accounts  for  1680  state  that  £4  was  pud 
to  '■  Mr.  Mayor  for  ye  Wateptayers  blew  cloth." 

In  1693  the  town  supplied  four  new  silver  badges  for  At 
waits  at  a  cost  of  /C^  17s.,  and  at  the  same  time  paid  ».  81 
for  four  yards  of  red  ribbon  to  suspend  the  badges  round  ihar 
necks. 

In  1698  "  I  new  Cloakc  for  a  Wflytcpla>*er  and  mending  tl» 
3  other  Cloakes"  cost  £2  8s.  ltd- 

The  mayor's  accounts  for   1702-3  records; —  £.   t.  Sr 

P*  Mr    Clarke  for  3  Cloakes  for  y*  wait  players 5  '9  • 

P*  Mr.  '["bo'  Dawe*  for  making  y*  Cloakes  12s,  for  lace 

for  y*  Capes  6s       o  18  0 

On  Thanksgiving  night,  in  1693,  ^^  ^0*"  musicians  woe 
paid  5s-  for  their  services.  Like  entries  are  frequent.  Maaj 
will  be  found  in  the  section  on  National  Events,  which  we  do 
not  here  repeat.  Drummers  are  first  mentioned  at  the  peace 
rejoicings  In  September,  1697,  and  subsequently  special  tnnnprt 
players 

Tftc  mayor's  accounts  from  1780  to  1790  have  a  regular  chary 
hir  music  of  two  guineas. 

After  many  years'  silence  with  regard  to  town  music   in  any 
shape,  •■o  far  as  the  chamberlain's  account*  are  concerned,  we  fii 
tn  1799  that  there  was  a  payment  of   I    guinea  I0   "mustciani 
the  Anniversary  Meeting  of  the  General   Infirmary  and   Mayor'. 
Feast." 


CIVIC   GOVERNMENT   AND   STATE. 


93 


Flags  and  Flag  Carriers. 

It  does  not  s«em  to  have  been  the  custom  at  any  time  in  our 

<ry  for  English  borou(>hs  to   be   in   possession  of,  or  1o  use 

tUgs  or  banner:^.     But  to  every  general  custom  or  rule  there  are 

gbceptions.     Pre&ton   has  a  town  flag   consisting   of    the    borough 

Bb&i  mounted  on  blue  silk,  which  is  carried  in  civic  processions. 

Hie  ancient   town   of    Colchester    possesses    a    banner,    which    is 

carried   before  the  corporation  at  the    proclamation    of    the    fair, 

ud  at   the  excursion  duwn  the  Colne   at   the    holding  of   a  court 

oi  conservancy.    These  two  flags  arc  considered  to  be  survivals  of 

respective  early  uses.     The  interesting  Shropshire   town  of  Bridg- 

Mitb,  has  also  a  banner,  but  this  one,  consisting  of   iKe  borough 

uas.  waa  only  purchased  for  the    corporation    in    1863,    on    the 

occasion    of    the    marriage    of    the    Prince  of    Wales.     Richmond 

d'orlcshircj  also  has  a  banner  of  the  town  arras,  and  York   used 

to  possess  a  city  ensign  ao  long  ago  as  the  days  of  Eliz^cth. 

NcAwithstanding  these  exceptions  (and  we  believe  every 
oception  has  been  named),  the  old  English  custom  was  evidently 
U  u^ii^n  flags  and  banners  to  militar)'  use,  or  ecclesiastical 
^Uy,  and  not  to  connect  them  with  civic  pageantry  or  town 
pTCcssions.  It  is  therefore  all  the  more  remarkable,  and  quite 
tucptionnt,  to  find  Northampton  in  possession  of  two  flags  and 
UK  haaner,  all  of  which  are  cirried  in  procession.  One  of  the  flags 
udliW  silk,  with  a  full  achievement  of  the  royalarms,  and  the  other 
B  of  the  same  colour,  but  bears  the  arms  of  the  town.  'I'he  lofty 
*i'C9  of  these  large  flags  are  respectively  surmounted  by  a  crown 
"id  «  mitre.  Tliese  flags  were  the  gift  of  Mr.  Thomas  Osborn, 
iw  were  tirst  used  in  1882,  when  the  mayor  and  corporation 
Mlmded  in  stale  al  the  opening  services  of  the  church  of  St. 
Michael  The  Bishop  of  Peterborough  on  that  occasion  hallowed 
^  fiags.  These  flags  were  the  successors  of  Iwo  of  similar 
dioioisicws,  borne  on  staves  thirteen  feet  high,  which  were  at  that 
'^^^  dixarded.  They  are  preserved  at  the  town  hall,  but  are  in 
4  ioniidctably  Uttered  condition.  These  flags  are  also  of  blue 
silk,  surrounding  large  achirvdracnts,  and  be-ar  the  date  of  1832. 
Below  both  ilic  arms  of  England  and  of  the  town  are  the  words 
"  *^nwation  o(  Northampton." 

Ob  warching  the  records,  the  earliest  entry  that  we  can  find 
is  under  At  year  1692,  when  the  town  paid  £fi  143.  "  for  new 
owkbg  the  2  towne  flagges."     They   are  described  in   jtx)?  as 


9t 


HORTIfAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


"  the  twoe  Hai^gs,  one  oF  the  towne,  and  Uiolhcr  the  rofiH 
standarde."  In  1712.  three  shilling  was  paid  {or  "Kildini;  at^iine 
the  toppcs  of  the  flag  staves."  An  entry  in  1740-1,  "  P*  Ridi' 
Maoinf;  for  painttnfi;  the  Corporation  streamers,  iia.  od.,"  m^ 
refer  to  the  flags  From  1741  downwards,  with  but  few  cxceptiowi 
entries  are  made  year  by  year,  for  the  payment  of  the  flaf 
carriers  on  certain  state  days,  duch  a-*  May  ^gth,  Michaflnat 
<lay.  November  5th,  Christmas  day,  and  the  hospital  annivcnaijr. 
The  usual  scale  of  payment  was  a  shilling  per  flag  un  each  occasub 
Last  century'  the  aldermen  considered  the  honour  and  pay  of  Iwingt 
flag-bearer  to  the  corporation  of  sufficient  importance  to  justify  1 
special  appointment  The  court  of  aldermen,  (or  instance,  cledol, 
in  1785,  Christopher  Couchwcll  "flag  carrier  in  the  place  of  J^bi 
Roberts  promoted  to  be  town  crJer."  In  1787  VVilliam  Robutwa 
was  duly  elected  one  of  tlic  two  flag-carriers,  in  tJic  room  of  J<lu 
Sherwood,  promoted  to  be  beadle. 

New  flags  were  procured  in  1781,  when  the  mayor  paid  "Mr. 
William  Balaam  for  F)a],n)^  ^  ^i"  °f  ^3^  "**■"  "^^^  mayoi'l 
accounts  of  tSo2-3  show  that  the  fUgs  were  renewed  (hat  ynr 
at  a  cost  of  1^30  2s.  In  1822  the  sum  of  £\8  7s.  was  paid  In 
alderman  Armlield  for  silk  for  new  flags,  the  remnants  of  wblcfc 
still  remain. 

The  remarkable  fact  that  Nonhamplon,  of  alt  the  corporate 
towns  of  England  and  Wales,  is  the  only  one  that  carries  Uw  royil 
standard  is  of  special  interest.  We  have  traced  the  custom  badtu 
1693.  and  even  tlien  the  two  flags  were  succestKyrs  to  tbeir  wom-nsit 
predecessors. 

The  carrying  of  the  royal  arms  of  England  on  a  flag  in  acf 
procession  would  be  altogether  an  unwarrantable  assumption,  unlea 
such  a  privilege  had  hccn  granted  by  express  charter,  or  by  tbi 
verbal  leave  and  sanction  of  one  of  our  monarchs.  There  is  on  to 
in  the  kingdom  (save  London)  that  has  been  oftcner  visited  by  royah] 
from  the  time  of  the  Conquest  downwards  than  the  once  stroi^ 
fortified  and  centrally-situated  borough  of  Northampton.  It  scentt 
then,  reasonable  to  assume  that  these  civic  flogs  of  Northampton  (1 
all  events  the  royal  standard)  have  their  onRin  in  the  favour  of  son 
royal  visitor  or  resident  of  the  remote  post.  It  has  been  stiggcsti 
that  William  IIT  may  have  conferred  this  extraordinary  privile^ 
during  his  brief  visits  to  the  town,  But  this  cannot  have  been  t 
case,  or  the  flag  would  not  have  required  renewing  so  early  as  tUfl 


96 


NORTHAMPTON   BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


representatives.  For  the  like  reason  starlet  was  the  colour  (or  the 
official  robe  of  the  reeve  or  mayor,  who,  though  elected  by  tbc 
people,  was  the  royal  representative.  The  same  use  applied  to 
the  aldermen,  who  had  once  been  mayors,  aiid  were  still  the  mayor's 
co-brethreii  and  advisers. 

The  occasional  apparent  exceptions  to  the  old  rule  of  scarlet  as 
Ibe  stAte  and  official  colour,  such  as  black,  or  purple,  or  blue 
for  mayor  and  aldermen,  all  disappear  on  careful  examination;  these 
other  colours,  where  not  modern,  being  the  ordinary  or  more  common 
dress 

So  far  as  Northampton  is  concerned,  there  is  no  early  evidence 
as  to  ihe  colour  of  the  ofTici^l  dte^it^s,  but  it  is  quite  impossible  to 
conceive  that  this  one  important  town  formed  any  exception  to  the 
invariable  rule  wherever  sucli  evidence  is  forlhcoming ;  particularly 
when  it  is  recollected  that  Northampton  was  more  favoured  as  a 
place  for  royal  visit*  and  royal  sojourns  than  any  other  town  in 
the  kingdom,  and  that  it  was  famed  from  early  days  for  the  purity 
of  its  scarlet  dye. 

At  an  assembly  held  on  October  20th,    15S9.  it    was    ordered 
"  that    all  the    M.'Liors    that  nowe    are     or  that    hereafter  shalbe 
of    this  towne  shall    yean>ly    att    the    Feaste  of   SajTite    Michael 
ih'    Archaungell,    the    Feaste   of    the    Nativitic.    or   birthe   of  oaf 
Lord    God,    the    Feaste    daye    of    Easter,    and    the    Feaste    Daj^ 
of  Whyt    Sondaye    were    there    Scarlett    as    uppon    these    dayes. 
uppon  payne  th.it  every  main   makeing  defaults  for  not  wearing^: 
the  sayd  Scarlett  uppon  the  said  daies  to  Forfeyt   xijd  for  every 
dcfaulte."     It  will   presently   be   noted,  under  the  head  of  "  Koyal 
Visits,"    that  the  mayor  and  aldermen    wore  their   scarlet    when 
greeting  king  James  in  t6o6. 

Id  [6t2  it  was  stated  "  that  there  was  so  much  disorder  and 
unseemliness  in  and  about  the  company  of  this  Reverend  assembly 
at  all  meetings,  both  at  Assemblys,  Courts,  and  Sessions,  by 
reason  of  their  undecencie  in  apparell  to  the  disgrace  of  this 
Corporation,  Nowe  for  reformation  thereof  it  is  agreed  and  ordered 
that  all  persons  of  thi.t  Asseniblie  that  nowe  is,  or  that  hereafter 
shalbe,  that  is  to  say  all  cvcrie  and  singular  Maior,  Alderman,  and 
Baylife  and  Burgessc  of  the  said  Corporation  shalbe  hereafter  at 
all  meetingf-s  sommones  and  .ippearances  at  Assemblys  Courtcs  and 
Scessions  Attired  in  a  black  or  some  sad  couloured  apparell 
decentlie    provided,    and  in   Comelie    and    decente    Ruffe    bandes 


CIVIC    GOVERNMENT    AND    STATE.  97 

nppon  paine  that  every  person  doeing  the  Contrary  in  anye  respecte 
shall  forfeit  Tenne  shillings." 

Another  order,  at  a  later  assembly  of  the  same  year,  provides 
tliat  the  bailiffs,  and  all  those  that  have  been  bailiffs,  shall,  upon 
every  Sunday  and  festival  day,  come  to  church  in  their  best  gowns 
upon  pain  of  3s.  4d. ;  and  that  Mr  Mayor  and  his  brethren  shall 
upon  November  5th  yearly  wear  their  scarlet  gowns  under  a  like 
penally.  The  forty-eight  burgesses  were  also  ordered  to  attend 
church  wearing  their  gowns  upon  the  same  day.  An  order  of  1620 
provided  that  the  mayor  and  his  brethren  {or  aldermen)  were  to 
wear  scarlet  on  every  Sunday  and  festival. 

Complaint  was  made  in  1653  that  the  assembly  had  again  become 
disorderly  and  unseemly  in  its  attire,  divers  coming  to  the  assembly 
in  cloaks  and  not  in  gownes,  and  in  plain  bands,  contrary  to  ancient 
custom.  The  assembly  thereupon  renewed  the  former  order 
insisting  that  every  mayor,  alderman,  baililf,  and  burgess  should 
a'tend  in  gowns  and  ruffed  bands.  The  small  penalties  then 
imposed  upon  defaulters  differed  according  to  the  rank  of  the 
offender  ;  an  alderman  was  fined  i6d.,  a  bailiff  i2d.,  and  a 
burgess  8d. 

The  assembly  of  October  ^th,  1655,  repealed  and  annulled  the 
<iress orders  of  1612  and  1653.  excepting  the  order  for  the  aldermen 
to  wear  their  scarlet  gowns  and  the  bailiffs  and  burgesses  their 
Wack  gowns  to  church  on  November  5th.  The  order  of  1620  was 
siso  repealed,  but  the  aldermen  were  .still  to  wear  their  scarlet 
?oivns,  and  the  bailiffs  and  burgesses  their  black  gowns  and  sad 
3pparel  at  assemblies  and    session. 

In   1659  it  was  ordered  that  all  those  of  the  forty-eight  who  had 

not  gowns  and  decent  apparel  were  forthwith  to  provide  themselves, 

and   that    henceforth   any    one    elected   to   the    forty-eight    was    to 

procure    a  gown   and   decent   apparel    within    three   months   of    his 

election,  or  be  fined  los. 

By  an  order  of  October  7th.  1670,  every  member  of  the  house 
■oming  to  an  assembly  without  his  gown  was  fined  five  shillings. 

On  December  18th,  1670,  a  more  elaborate  order  was  made, 
\  hereby  mayors  and  ex-mayors  were  to  come  to  church  from 
vlichaelmas  to  May  ist  everj'  Sunday  with  scarlet  gowns  furred 
vilh  "  foynes,"  and  from  May  ist  until  Michaelmas  with  the  gowns 
aced  either  with  satin  or  damask  ;  their  wives  (whether  their 
luibands  be  living  or  dead)  were  to  wear  their  velvet  hats  every 

H 


98 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


Suoday  :   no  aldt^rman   was  to  come   to  church    in   his  claiV  n 
lecture  day ;  the  prnalty  for  defaulting  in  any  of  ihe  abo^e 
wa»  five  shillings.     The  bailiffs  were  ordered  to  come  to  chmtlj 
their  gowns   every   Sunday,   and  thrir    wives    to   w-ear  talleta 
embrotdrrcd  hats  under  lilce  pcnakie.'i.     The  «*idows  of  majnini 
bailiffs  were  excused  wearing  their  velvet  or  taffeta  hats  for  a; 
after  their  husband's  death,  but  no  longer. 

The  term   "  foyne '"   implies  an    English  brown  fur, 
various  fashions.     It  has  been  diversely  explained  as  wild 
martin,  as  squirrel,  and  as  fox.     On  the  whole,  we  think  the 
of  these  was  probably  here  intended.    Christopher  Barnard,  aid 
of  Northampton,  by  will  dated  1553.  left  his  "  starlelt  gownt  («r 
with  foxe  "  to  his  daughter  Margaret  "  to  serve  for  a  coveritqp:.") 
term  then  usually  applied  to  a  bed  quili. 

Other  local  wills  of  about  this   period   make   mention  of 
gowns  trimmed  with  grey  or  badger:   it  is  possible  that  the 
the  dress  of  the  bailifls. 

There  are  two  other  rd'crences,  of  seventeenth  century  dale.  I 
the  ladies'  dress,  in  both  of  which  it  specifics  that  the  m.i>-of  in 
aldermen's  wives  were  to  wear  scarlei  gowns,  and   velvt-t  IwU, 
all  the  Sundays  and  fesitivals  when  their  husbands  were  arrifei  i 
scarlet    Tlic  custom  of    the  wife   of    the  chief  magistrate 
entitled  to  this  special  distinction  for  her  life  seems  only  to  hW 
prevailed  in  the  more  important  towns.     It  can  be  shown  thut 
use  prevailed    at    Kings   Lynn,   Shrewsbury,  Salisbury,  and  Wi 
Chester,  as   welt  as  at  Nurtliampton   and    London.      The  pr 
pattern  of    the    Northampton    ladies'    velvet  and  silk  hats  am 
seen  on  the  brass  of  the  two  wives  of  Geo^e  Coles,  tn  the  d)H 
of  the  Holy  Sepulchre. 

In  [6;8  the  penalty   for   being  gownless   in    the  assembly 
raised  to  ten  shillings ;  but  in  the  following  year  die  penalty 
lou-ered,  a  gownless  alderman  being  fined  five  shillings,  wbiL 
bailiff  or  a  burgess    in    like  predicjjment  were   respectively   fii 
half-a-crown   and    eighteen  pence.     The  aswmbly  were  pecuUa 
fickle  as  to  these  fines,  for  in  1684  the  6ve  shilling  penalty  oo  c\ 
gownless  member  of  the  house  was  re-imposed 

In  1689  the  (oriy-eiglit  were  ordered  to  provide  themsrives 
gownn,  and  if  any  one  had  not  done  so  within  a  month  of  the 
be  was  to  be  Hncd  five  shillings. 


section  three. 
Civic  Jurisdiction. 


RicORDERS  —  Town     couksbl  —  Coroners  —  Treasure  trove  —  Macistiiatbs— 
Stewards — Court     of    record     or    hustings — Orphans'   court — Statute 

MERCHANT    RECOGNtZANCES StAPLE     MERCHANTS     AND    INVENTORIES MaYDK     AS 

arbitrator  —  Mavor   as    escheator  —  V'eknalls    incl'ests  —  Convictions  for 
SHEAHiNc  —  Constables,  Thibdboroughs,  and  dozeners  —  The   town   seals  — 

JtDGES    AND    assizes. 


CIVIC    JURISDICTION. 


103 


THE    RECORDERS. 


THE  Recorder  is  a   municipal  official   of   comparative  modern 

jfTowth.     Owinp  to  the  diversity  o(  business  and  intricate  legal 

credtirt  that  came  b«fore  the  Iwral  town  rotirts,  it  became  usual 

thtr  filteenth  and  sixteenth  centuries  to  (crmaJly  associate  with 

De  popularly -chosen  and  elected  mayor  and  other  justices  of  a  free 

lunicipality  (usually  drawn  froni  the  rank   of  commerce)  a  legal 

lM:sttor  in  order  to  secure  a  better  and  less  fluctuating  administration 

justice.     The  method  and  period  oC  appointment  of   recorder!:, 

well  as  their  powers,  differed  materially  in  various  boroughs. 

The  first  charter  mention  of   a  recorder  for  Northampton  is  in 

|7fl,  when  he  is  ityridentally  named  as  an  established  official,  before 

"om  (in  conjunction  with  the  coroners)  the  mayor  was  henceforth 

^  talicThe  oaths  of  office.     An  ordinance  of  the  court  of  hustings, 

H     February    i»t,  1489,  quoted    in   the  cii$tomar>-,  names  Richard 

^Ttipson    as  recorder.      This    first-named    recorder  of  Northampton 

*'*s  an  historic  character:  the  various  important  positions  that  be 

M\ctl  and    hifc   tragic    fate  are  named   on   p.   312  of  the  previous 

lome- 

Hcnry  VIl.'s  charter,  of  1495,  provided  that  the  assembly  might 

|*t  Mtclmelmas  elect  a  discreet  man  learned  in  the  law  as  recorder, 

sit  with  the  mayor  and  two  other  burgesses  as  justice  of  the 

ice  for  the  administration  of  a  variety  of  frtalules.     Three  were 

I  fonn  a  quorum,  or  two  if  the  recorder  was  one, 

A  Century  later,  by  the  Elizabethan  charter  of  t.S99,  <'  ^^^  further 

provided  that  the  mayor,  burgesses,  and  tiailifFs  of  Northampton  may 

ive  for  ever  "one  honest  and  discreet  man  learned  in  the  laws  of 

!lif    Kingdom   of    England"    as  the    recorder  of  the  town.    This 

charter    nominated    Chnstopber     Yelverton,     serjeant-at-law,     as 

corder,  »nd  provided  that  after  his  death  or  removal  the  assembly 

;ht  nominate  anotlier  from  time  to  time. 

The    next  charter,  of    1618,   nominated    Sir    Henry    Yelverton 
^er  for  his  natural  life  ,  provided  that  the  assembly  should  elect 
:es»or;  and  gave  to  him  and  his  brother  justices  {namely  the 
tlkC  mayor,  ex-mayor,  and  one  other  elected  burgess}  as  full  power, 


104 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


without  commission,  as  justiccB  of  the  peace  of  the  county  possessed. 
Three  were  to  form  a  quorum,  of  whom  the  recorder  must  be  one. 

The  charter  of  1663  nom!nate<l  Edward,  Earl  of  Manchester, 
recorder  for  life,  with  powers  to  the  common  council  lo  elect  a 
successor  after  his  decease,  and  for  the  recorder  lo  select  a 
deputy ;  certain  powers  as  justices  being  reserved  to  "  the  majnor 
recorder  or  dcpaly  recorder."  'ITie  second  charter  of  Charles  11., 
1683,  named  Henrj-,  Earl  of  Peterborough,  as  recorder  for  life,  his 
successor  to  be  elected  by  the  common  council ;  ordered  that  the 
court  of  record  should  be  held  before  the  mayor,  recorder,  deputy 
recorder,  and  two  bailiffn ;  and  gave  definite  power  to  the  recorder  to 
appoint  a  deputy  to  act  during  his  pleasure. 

The  1796  charter  re-appoinled  .Spencer,  Earl  of  Northampton,  as 
recorder,  and  appointed  Spencer  Percival  as  deputy  recorder,  but 
subject  to  removal  at  the  discretion  of  the  recorder. 

The  (irst  mention  of  a  recorder  in  the  orders  of  assembly  occurs 
in  the  reign  of  Philip  and  Mary,  when  at  an  assembly  held  on  July 
16th,  1553,  Mr.  Francis  Morgan  was  sworn  recorder  of  Northamptoa 
It  is  stated  tbat  Mr.  Morgan  at  that  lime  dwelt  in  the  abbey  o( 
St.  Andrew,  within  the  town's  liberties.  Mr.  Morgan  died  in  the 
tenth  year  of  EUiabeth,  and  the  next  appoinlinenl  was  made  by 
the  mayor  and  aldermen  in  the  following  terms  :  — 

M*  tti«   lin'^  Any  oi  Jn\y,    1568,  M   *  c-Otinct'll  holden  hy  Mr.  John  Br^n  RlaMTo' 

Nonliiinipton  «nd  hit  rnbrrther*!)  to  wii  John  BilgKy,  E^lwjrd  M;inleT.  John  Longs* 
Ralfc  Mciiotde,  Richui<l  Wharluo,  and  Thonus  Pcinbcrton.  Uy  good  d«lib«raifaw 
and  jdvicemenl  of  the  uld  miior  and  hli  brothoen  did  elei-t  aed  I'huie  in  to  the  oAictf 
off  Rccofdcrnhipe  uf  Northamplon  nnc  Clitlilofcr  Yelvcrioii  j;;FriliIinxn  Iw  *upptie  ihtf 
office  abovtuide.  In  rirtuc*  a(  Ihn  prcmiHst  iKil  the  ».-iide  in.iior  and  hit  c«Wolb«n» 
hive  to  tliii  buuk  of  records  mtIIe  ther  bandi  the  Any  ;md  yirre  above. 

In  this  instance  it  seems  clear  that  ihe  mayor  and  aldermen 
had  usurped  a  right  which,  by  the  charter  of  1495,  pertained  to 
the  whole  assembly. 

Mr.  Yclverton  retained  the  office  for  nearly  thirty-three  years. 
About  ten  years  after  his  appointment  he  became  possessed  by 
purchase  of  the  manor  of  Easton  Maudit,  in  this  county,  and  satin 
two  Eliiabcthan  parliaments  as  a  knight  of  the  shire  for  North- 
ampton. Subsequently  Mr,  Yelvcrton  was  appointed  speaker  of  Ihe 
House  of  Commons,  and  was  eventually  appointed  jud^  of  the 
Queen's  Bench.  On  his  appointment  to  the  judicial  bench,  he 
prevailed  upon  the  town  of  Northamplon  to  confer  the  dignity  of  the 
recordership  on  his  son. 


CIVIC    JURISDICTION. 


105 


At  an  axscntbly  held  on  March  1st,  1601,  the  following  order  was 
made  : — 

Yt  y»  tgntd  asil  ordered  lh»t  Heary  YBl>^HQn  Rt^nice  Minne  anJ  heift* 
■pfunnt  at  (h*  right  ironhipfiilt  Chriitarer  Yflrertcn.  otic  tl  tlw  Justii-n  of  her 
a*"**  bench,  sball  (anA  ibe  laihcr  Id  rcpird  of  tKc  rietit  lionurable  the  Lvrdcs  »nd 
ttkcn  ci   the  Q>H«ntt  fiiV*  camiccll  iheir  Icllers  in  his  b«.halffi)  bo  recorfw  of  the 

NtMrnc  of    Nunhampiun.  tnd  tuve.  cnjay,  and    cicrriic   thM    offirc    in   l>ie    tnvintit 

^■1  pbee  <tf  bi«  Kiide  father. 

In  i6i)6  Ht^nry  Yctverton  was  prpfciTcd  to  be  "  reader  in  Graves 
liwi,"  and  the  Northampton  assembly,  rejoicing  in  the  rcflwted 
tionour.  voted  him  a  gratuity  of  five  pounds  out  of  the  town  chamber, 

iVce  years  later  the  town  was  le»s  amiably  disposed  towards  ihtir 
Korder,  for  on  May  4th,  1609,  it  was  ordere<l  that  "  no  more  money 
fc  allowed  towardcs  the  entcrtaiiiemenl  of  Mr.  Recorder  al  his 
BMBing  lo  the  townc  upon  the  feast  daic  of  St.  Michael  then  sixtcne 
Aillinj(5,  and  that  for  this  Lyme  Mr.  Wilkinson  his  bill  for  charges 
H  Vdaymelh  about  his  entcruynement  shalbe  allowed  reteyved  and 
H&cbrged." 

H      In  1613   Mr.  Henry  Yelverton  was  made  solicitor-general,  and 
l^.in  i6r7  attorney-general,     He  was  one  of  the  members  for  North- 

ainptOD  in  the  last  parliament  of  Elizabeth  and  the  first  of  James  I. 

jH      in  1619  the    king  issued   letters   patent   confirming   Sir    Henry 

^■Yetvtrton  in  the   rccordership  of  Northampton  for  the  term  o(  his 

H  Mttiiai  |[fc_     Soon  after  he  incurred  the  roya!  displeasure,  and  was 

"'atie  a  Star  Chamber  prisoner  in  the  tower  for  some  months.    On 

J""*  igth,  16^3,  the  corporation  accepted  Sir   Henry'-s  resignation 

of  the  tc-cordcrship  on  Ids  appointment  as  a  judge  of  common  pleas, 

and  piocccdcd    to    elect,    at    his    strong    recommendation,    "  one 

^riitofci  Sliorland,  nephew  to  the  said  Sir  Henry."     It  was  also 

I       'B'wj  that  Mr.  Shorland  should  be  made  a  freeman  of  the  town, 

fi'licnn  payment,  after  he  had  taken  his  oath  for  his  freedom,  and 

"•""Wu  iJie  5ame  time  take  the  accustomed  oath  (or  the  executing 

<■  Uw  office  of  the  rccordership  according  to  the  "best  benefit  and 

|***lc  o(  this    Corporation."     Sir  Heiir>'  Yelverton  regained  royal 
wtiuT,  jn<i  was  made  judge  of  common  picas  by  Charles  I.,  in  1623  ; 
•*  ^ed  in  1629. 
Christopber  Shorland  was  one  of  the  members  of  parliament  for 
^thwipion  for  the  last  parliament  of  James  I.  and  the  first  three 
01  OiatWs  I.    On  his  death,  be  was  succeed'xi  in  the  rccordership 
Cln    the    troublous    times    that  preceded  the 
chard  Lane  was  removed  by  the  vote  of   the 


io6 


NORTHAMPTON    BOKOUGH    RliCORDS. 


corporation.     At  un  as^icmbly  held  on  December   14th,  1642,  it  vri 
resolved 

W)i«Tew  Richaid  Lane  E>^uier  Recorder  of  lh«  towns  of  N«ttun>ptoti  i* 
shogethOT  kbMiit  in  Iheie  tymes  ol  iAtigtt  frotn  this  Corporation  sot  as  th«  C«r- 
pomtiori  cannci  have  his  CavnicnatieQ  and  Counsel!  In  (hla  tymc  ot  need,  tha.t  u 
veil  for  this  cauu  ki  far  ulher  cimek  knoM«fi  tu  rhU  nxiwRibliR,  ll  i»  otAtf^  that 
h«  slialbe  Doe  lonjec  KccordK  oi  tht>  Itivne,  And  thsreforv  bjr  rontctit  rt  t)ie 
whoU  iMccnblie  EdvFard  Earl  of  ManchateT  is  elected  and  cboacn  Rceotder  of  thii 
toinic. 

The  "  other  causis"  tncntioncd  in  this  resolution  were  doubtless 
that  recorder  Lane  was  strenuously  supporting  the  roj-alist  party. 
Ktrhard  Lane,  of  yeomanr>'  parentage  in  the  parish  of  Courtecnhall, 
waa  a  distini^uislicd  lawyer.  fic  was  counsel  for  the  Karl  ofv 
Stafford  at  hi»  impcaclinient  in  1640,  and  vi-a&  soon  after  madfl^ 
attorney  to  Prince  (Charles.  In  1643  he  retired  with  the  king  to 
Oxford,  where  lie  was  knighted,  made  scrjcant-at-law,  and  lord  chief 
baron  of  the  exchequer.  In  1695  he  liad  llic  threat  seal  delivered  to 
him,  on  the  death  of  Lord  Littleton      He  died  in  France  in  1651.        fl 

The  numination  and  election  of  the  Earl  of  Manchester,  the  great 
parliamentary  general,   to  Uic   recorder^lnp  of    Northampton  must 
have  been  intended  as  an  emphatic  compliment  to  this  rising  leader,] 
and  a  bold  declaration  on  the  part  of  the  town  aa  to  the  atauocb-J 
ncss  of  their  sympatliies. 

In  165S  Mr.  Francis  Harvey  is  incidentally  mentioned  as 
recorder  of  Northampton.  He  died  in  1660,  holding  the  office  of 
recorder,  and  being  also  member  of  parliament  for  the  borougl] 
up  to  the  time  of  his  death.  Possibly,  iiowever,  Mr.  Harrgy 
was  only  deputy  recorder.  ^M 

The  charter  of    1663  shows  that  the  king  appointed,  or  ralhef^ 
re-appointed,    Edward,    Earl   of    Manchester,   to  the    recordership- 
The  carl,  though  a  distinguished  general  of  the  parliamentary  ajmyr 
and  the  victor  of  Marston   Moor,  was  opposed  to  the  execution  of 
Charles  I.,  and  retired  from  parliament  till  1660.    He  then  voted  lor 
tlie  restoration  of  Charles  11.,  and  was  chosen  by  the  peers  as  their 
spokesman  to  congratulate  the  king  on  his  reluni.     He  retained  thafl 
honourable  position  of  recorder  to  the  town  till  his  death  in  1671-     ™ 

A  contest  then  arose  concerning  the  rccordcrship  of  Northampton, 
(which  mutst  at  that  time  have  been  considered  a  post  of  peculiar^ 
honour;  between  tho  two  great  carls  of  the  county,  who  were  botliK? 
of  them    celebrated  royalists.      The   much-coveted  post  was   fi 
conferred  by  the  assembly  upon  the  Earl  of  Peterborough     Harrys 


i 


CtVlC   JURISDICTION. 


107 


Earl  of  Peterborough,  greatly  dUtingutshed  tum&elf  i»  the 

I'vars.    He  raised  a  regiment  for  ihc  king  at  his  own  expense, 

f%iil  nflcred  fre^iuent  imprisonment.     He  was  trusted  with  a  variety 

icate    missions   by   Charles   II.,    and   acted  as   proxy   in    the 

■  ceremony  of  James,  Uukc  of  Vorlc,  at  thi:  court  of  Modena. 

[bSN,  Earl    of    Nortiumpton,  was    also     most    actively    engagect 

ghoul  the  civil  war,  and  commanded  the  hor^c   at   the  battle 

ewbury.     He,  too,  was  much  honoured  by  Charles  II.,  and  wa» 

oade  cofl»lable  of  the   tower,   and  lord   lieutenant  of  the  hamlcta, 

lor^  lieutenant  of  the  county  of  Wamick,  lieutenant  and  recorder  of 

tic  city   ol    Coventry,    and  also  recorder  ot    the  towns  of  North- 

•npldn  and  Tain  worth ;  he  died  at  Castle  Ashby  in  i68t. 

Fiir  iome  cause  that  we  have  not  been  able  to  trace,  the  Earl  of 
Peterborough  gave  offence  to  the  bu^ge^Keft  of  Northampton.  They 
ttiolved  to  avail  themselves  of  their  charter-right  ot  free  election 
m  Ihc  lecorderiliip. 

Accordingly,  at  an  assembly  held  on  October  14th,  1672,  it  was 
ipml  that 

Thi  CapnnilJofi  nf  Nontijaipton   having'  had   long  experience  of  ihc  maailold 
■dttno  and  tavouia  dunt  by  ihe  Right  Hon*''  ]*mt»  ICarle   of  Northampton  10 
I  Ua  CarforMiatt  have  by  an  uaaoimaus  Cotatnt  Elected  *itd  Cho««n   ibe  «*  Earl« 
I <■  Nontempiloa  their  Recorder  and  doe  pnj  hi«  acceptance  Ibereof, 

The  Earl  of  Peterborough  naturally  resented  his  deposition  from 

St'e,  and  considered  the  matter  of   sulTicienl  importance  to  bring 

Mon  the  king  and  the  privy  council.      It  will  be   best  to  give 

rhatim  the  entry  in  the  Northampton  order  book  at  an  assembly 

(eld  on  November  7th,   1&73 : — 

^^m    Vp«a  Rtatieinit  iIm  l>ctiti«n  of  the  Earlo  ot   PelerlwrouKh  whi4-b  wm  Exhibited 

^^K  ki*  MCrcd   Majen^  a«(l  lh«  Co^nwll    Board   aoJ  the  Otder  lhere>'|>«n  dated  the 

^K'  '<-  of  Ortober  Inn  put    It    i*    Ofrienxj    thil    John   Willougtibj-  E*q.  the 

^K^  /"r  tJ    ihi"   »Ald  town«  tos«tht)r  wth  wh*t  penona  lie  »l»*ll  ihinlie  cwn- 

McmW  be  Destrad  la  aUeiu)  ht>  Majtety  and  tJw  Privy  CouHelt  iipnn  Wednendajr 

■eat   bdac   the  dajr   appo|rnled    [or   all    petiom   coocerned    in   lite   tieciion  of   a 

tbttxrJmt  fai  tliii  Town*  (o  appear  Aim!  that  he  doe  then  inlufnic  liio  M()**tj  that 

1W  Earlc   ol    PcetlNrow  did  eatneitly   •■■lltriit  (or  the  Offire   of  Jtrrwdwr  of   the 

T«VM  or    Nortliatnpion   hy    Leiteia  and   Irdftdo  loaf   befoce   his  Ehsction   to   tW 

Akd  nhtae  that  heretofore  during  Ibc  iifciyme  of   the    Recorder   in    beiD{  ih* 

I.fls.  *ni  oiher    B<irxena    have   Elened    a   new  Recorder  accorttlni;  to 

rr.   whirh    SiKliokt    ha*e   «tood    gooi ;    And    huiliet    ihitl    the    Ri^ht 

tlie  Ettit  lA  .N [I tt Hampton    w»s  Elected  Recorder    oi   the  uid  Corpomtiofi 

I  lbs  U^t  Elertiwn  »1  OScer*  for  (be  said  Toaim:  with   the  unjaiitions  consent  of 

Ibera  preaeni  at  Uir  A«Mnibl}>  And  thai    verr;  tntuy  wwe  diMsli^&cd 


io8 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS.. 


al  tlw  Eartc  of  PaWrborow'a  Bltction    lo  ih«  nantt  And  tbcy  doe  alio  Order 
a    Pdition    be    hundcd    bj    the    Burgesses    of    lh»    Corptn-ation    in    that 
(allowing; :  viz. 

We  the  Mayor  Bailiffs  and    BurK>esMS   of    ihc    T«urnr   o(    Nvnlumptoii  in 
AcMmhIy  beinff  io  lh«  Guild  Hall  of  the  »aid  Tonne  the  Mvenih  dny  of  Koremb 
1672  Doc  hunibly  requeil  ttui  his  Mcred  Mhjesi)-  may    be   supplkaietl  10  girc  ih 
Rojatt  approbntion  to  the  Election  of  ihe  right    honl)'*  the   Harle    of    Ncrtkainptca 
■  o  b«  our  Reorder  For  thii    present  yejte,  uvcordinj;  (u  mir  tale  ElectkMi,  as 
•re  directed  unJ  cinpuweied  by  out  Cliailcr. 

The  result  nf  this  appearance  of  Hie  mayor  and  deputation  berorej 
the  privy  Council  appears  from  an  order  of  the  aswienibly  made 
December   latli,  1&72.     Il  was  then  decreed  that  llie  Earl  of  North-' 
ampton  have  The  oath  of  a  freeman  administered  to  him  at  the  sanw 
time  that  he  taketh  the  oath  of  recorder;  that  the  common  seai^e 
affixed    to  an  instrument  ast^erling  that    the  earl  should    hai'C  and! 
enjoy    the  perqui&ites,    profits,    and    fees  accustomed    and   formerly^ 
paid  to  any  recorder:  and  that  the  Northampton  assembly  and  iheir' 
successors   shall  yearly,  at   Michaelmas,    elect  the  Earl  of  Norih* 
ampton  to  be  their  recorder,  and  so  yearly  continue  their  etectic 
during  tlie  earl's   natural    life.      In    accordance    with   this  curiot 
stipulation,    the  formality    of    tlie    yearly   election    of   the  Earl 
Northampton  itt  entered  continuously  in  the  order  book  up  lo  ih* 
time  of  his  death. 

On   the  death  of  the    Earl  of    Northampton,  the  assembly,  »■ 
Dexremher  23rd,    168 1,  elected  Edward,   I^rd  Montagu,   as  reconJtri 
and  humbly  recomnicndcd  hirr  to  the  king's  most  ricellent  maje 
for  his  gracious  approbation.     At  another  assembly,  held  threei 
later,  the  common  seal  of  the  town  was  affixed  to  the  order  of 
Montagu's  election. 

In  making  this  selection^  the  choice  of  the  burgesses  Cell 
a  remarkable  man.  Sir  Edward  Montagu,  of  Boughton,  1 
created  a  baron,  as  Lord  Montagu  of  Boughton,  by  James  I,, 
1633.  lie  t<oon  became  a  leading  man  in  the  county,  and  was 
special  benefactor  to  the  town  of  Northampton.  Sir  PhiHl 
Warwick,  in  his  life  of  Charles  I.,  says  that  Lord  Montagu 
such  sway  there  (Northampton),  that  turned  everything  at  hi 
Eiedc,  and  the  Multitude  or  Vulgars  flock'd  about  him  when  b^ 
came  to  Town,  as  if  he  had  been  there  topical  Deity."  He  w»^ 
lord  lieutenant  of  the  county  at  the  beginning  of  the  Commonweal!.' 
troablcs,  and  taking  the  side  of  the  king  was  sent  as  prisoner 
London,  where  he  died  in  1644.     He  was  succeeded  by  his  eldt^  sc 


CIVIC  JURISDICTION. 


109 


i.tlte  second  Lord  Montagu,  wlio  at  first  look  llic  side  of  the 

It,  and  was  one  of  those  who  was  nominated  by^  the  Houses 

p  to  receive  llic  kinR  from  the  Scots,  and  to  conduct  him  to 

nbf  Houjc.     He  was  opposed,  however,  to  the  trial  of  Charles 

e^-cntually  he  and  his  sons  took  a  very  active  part  in  the 

ttnin  of   Charles    II.       Lord    Montagu   wait  no  rourtirr.  and 

;  the  cundiltons  of  the  rc5(ore<l  monarch's  court  he  retired  to 

oimtry,  where  hr  passed  a  quiet  lilc.     His  scxond  son   Ralph 

tvciitually  succeeded  hi&  laitier,  and  afterwards  was  created 

luid  then  Duke  of  Montagu  by  William   HI.  and  Queen  Anne) 

Re  a  Uvounlc  at  court,  and  acted  on  .several  occasions  as  special 

sudor  to  Krancc      Disappointed,  however,  in  expecled  prefer- 

Biut.hctook  up  a  hostile  attitude  to  Charles  II.     He  was  elected 

BKmbrr  lor  Northampton  in  1671^,  for  county  of  Huntingdon  in  1679, 

lieaio  for  Nunlunipton  in  i6t^o  and  168],  and  was  the  chief  mover 

bill»  for  shutting  out  thr   Duke  of  York  (Jamc5  H.)  from  the 

.    [L  was  sooii  after  Ralph  had  set  himself  in  decided 

to  the  king,  in   the  parliament  hrld  at  Oxford,  that  North- 

I  took  the  opportunity  of  electing  his  old  father,  Kdward,  l^rd 

[TIcntagu,  to  their  rccordcrship. 

The  crown,  not  unnaturally,  declined  to  ratify  tite  choice  of  the 
,  fcurpases,  as  is  expressed  in  the  following  official  communication  ; — 

To  our  truitj'  wd  ««tlb«lov««l  the  Kayor   AMermEn  and  ComiDonall^  of  Our 
iTwM  oT  NcirthimpiiMi 

Oiulc*  R. 
Tnnty  ind  WclBMlaved  W*  |[i«el  yoa   W«ll.     Ttitte  having  bna  pfeM(ile<l  unto- 
1%  abdrr  jrfniT  Ciwnnum  Siule  n  CcrtiAcatF  of  ytwir    thoice   of    Our   Rijjtil    Trusty 
•»d    Bcll    belure4    Edmiri    Lwni    MuaUgiic   tu  l>«    Ro(prd(T  of    j-our  CM|M>ri>li«n 
kia  Our  Barrough  ■nil  Town*  of  Nanbamjitun  willi  a  Rt^rnmmtndalion  of  surb 
rhovoc  to  Vi  ht  Our  gracious  approtMlion  accanlin|{  lo  the  ptiT|>on  of  jrouT 
W«  li«*>  lltou^K  Ru  not  lo  Approre  of  your  «ld  choire  Atid  doe  hereby 
ttMo  jroB   wu    Uiullowanrp   (btreof.    miuiiinf;  ynn    upon  sight    hetwf  to 
te  4  Kw  Election  o(   a    Recotdcr  export    in    the    Liwei  «f   Ovt  L^nd  *» 
Ch*ncr   dircrtt   And    ok   w«    bid    jou   farewell.     Givra    at   Our    Court   all 
tbr  t4ik  Amj  o(  M4J  1683  in  (he  four  and  ihirtkifa  jrurc  of  our  rdgne. 

ikis   Mai«^y'*  CooirnkuDd 

I..  jFakitu. 
The  king  now  seized  the  opportunity  of  conferring  the  appoint* 
M  on  bis  special  faruunte,  tJie  Earl  of  Peterborough,  who  had 
Irrady  been  recorder  in  1671  for  a  brief  period. 

The  awenibly  prox'cd  submissive,  and  on  July  Tlh,  1682,  elected 
■  Henry.    Eiarl    of    Peterborough,    recorder,    praying    for    the  royal 


110 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


approbation,  and  further  ordering  that  the  common  seal  b« 
to  an  instrument  for  his  enjoyment  of  the  said  office  for  life. 
On  July  3Dth  Charles  11.  formally  approved  of  the  appointment, 
andi  the  royal  approbation  i&  duly  entered  in  full  in  the  order  hook. 

For  thr  next  six  years  the  Earl  of  Pet«frborouj;li  was  annually 
re-elected  recorder  each  successive  Michaelmas.  He  was  held  in  the 
highest  esteem  by  James  1 1 .,  carried  the  sceptre  with  the  cross  ai  hi 
coronatioTi,  and  was  admitted  KnipliI  of  the  Garter,  But  at  tbfl 
revolution  of  i688,  the  House  of  Commons  resolved  on  the  earl'i 
impeacJuiient  for  departing  from  his  allegiance,  andbeing  reconciled 
to  the  Church  of  Romr.  The  impeachment,  however,  was  dropped, 
and  he  died  in  retirement  in  1697. 

His  loyalty  to  James  II.  naturaily  in%-olved  the  abandonment 
the  recordcrship  of  Northampton,  together  with  all  other  offices. 
At  an  assembly  held  on  March  ijth,  i6S8-g,  George,  Earl  uf  North- 
ampton, was  admitted  and  took  his  oath  as  a  freeman,  and  was 
al  the  same  time  sworre  as  a  recorder.  Tlic  earl  was  not  of  a^ 
at  the  time  of  his  father's  decease,  but  was  made  lord  lieutenant  of 
Warwickshire  by  Charles  It.  He  w.is  continued  in  this  and  other 
offices  by  James  11.,  but  declining  to  approve  of  the  repeal  of  tbe 
penal  laws  by  royal  prerogative  he  was  deprived  of  liis  commission. 
On  the  accession  of  William  III.,  George.  Karl  of  Northampton,  wai 
at  once  restored  to  favour,  and  carried  the  sceptre  with  the  cross  at 
the  coronation.  In  1695  King  Willi&m  visited  the  earl  at  Castle 
A.shby,  at  the  same  time  entering  Northampton.  By  Queen  Anne, 
he  was  appointed  constable  of  the  tower  and  lord  lieutenant  of  tbe 
hamlets. 

The  corporation  continued  to  annually  re-elect  the  earl  until  biS 
death,  which  occurred  on  April  15th,  1737.  On  April  17th  ike 
assembly  met  and  elected  James.  Earl  of  Northampton,  as  recorder 
in  the  room  of  his  father.  He  was  returned  as  a  young  man  31 
Icnighl  of  the  shire  for  co.  Warwick,  and  so  distinguished  himself 
that  he  was  called  up  to  the  House  of  Lords- in  1711  as  Baroa 
Compton.  At  the  coronation  of  George  I.  he  carried  the  ivory  rol 
and  dove. 

James,  the  fifth  earl,  died  without  male  issue  in   1753,  and  w: 
succeeded    by   his    brother    George,    who    had   been    member    fi 
Northampton  from  1727    lo  the  time  of  his    succession.      He   di 
without  issue  in  1758,  and  was  succeeded  by  his  nephew  Chari 
the  seventh  earl.      Charles,  in  1763,  was  followed  in  the  eartdom  b 


I 


!!.1N,  III 

■ '  1 7'./>,  was  succeeded  by  his  son 

i  ■[    tliese  earls    were  respectively 

;  111  by  the  assembly.     The  voting, 

.iiiimous.     For   instance,   on  October 

I  .Miie    to    a    vote    on    the    respective 

.,.iipu>n  and  Lord  Spencer  to  the  recorder- 

■  iiiiily,  eighty-one    members   being  present. 

~;  for   Lord  Northampton,  and  27  for   Lord 

ii  --.irl  and  the  first  marquis  of  Northampton,  died 

,■    assembly  held  on  August  7th  of  that  year  the 

•  ii  John  Beauclerk,  barrister-at-Iaw,  to  be  recorder 

•In;  late   Marquis  of  Northampton,  and  he  was  duly 

■  .^l\-  ek-ctcd.     Mr.  Beauclerk,  from    1810,  had  been  the 

'irputy  recorder,  and  the  assembly  in  1828  wisely  deter- 

■    ;;ive  the  full   title,  and   whatever    honour   the  position 

(i.  upon  the  one  who  did  the  work.     During  the  long  period 

;    earls   of    Northampton    were    recorders   their   chief    duty 

3  have  been  to  provide  annually  a  most  lavish  entertainment 

lumerous  members  of  the  corporation.     The  accounts  remind 

is  year  by  year,  for  on  that  occasion  several  pounds  of  the 

money    were    usually    spent   on    presents  to    the    Earl   of 

npton's  servants. 

ng  all  this  period  of  honorary  recorders  there  was  a  con- 
succession  of  duly  appointed  deputy  recorders,  who  were 
t  of  the  chamberlain's  funds,  and  in  those  accounts  are 
simply  styled  "  recorders." 

May  nth,  1663,  the  court  of  aldermen  appointed  William 
Esq.,  councillor-at-law,  counsel  for  the  corporation  at  the 
tanding  fee  as  heretofore  He  was  appointed  on  the 
endation  of  Sir  Richard  Raynsford,  knt.,  serjrant-at-law, 
iigned  after  twenty  years'  service  owing  to  accepting  a 
lent  appointment  in  Ireland. 

March  8th,  1688,  the  court  of  aldermen  elected  Robert 
town  counsel  at  the  usual  standing  fee,  to  be  paid  out  of 
mber  stock. 

691  it  is  stated  that  the  recorder's  (deputy)  salary  is 
od.,  and  that  of  the  "town  council,"  which  was  an  office 
also  held  by  the  deputy,  £2  3s.  od.  In  1705  Mr.  Danvers 
order,  and  Mr,  Breton  town  counsel. 


113 


NORTHAUPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


Ob  October  8th.  1713,  it  was  nanArrd  Lhat  "  vtbcrrss  Robert 
Bretoo,  Esq.,  the  late  Twwne  Couowl,  has  left  Ihii  Townc  It  b 
Ordered  and  agreed  by  tbc  mayor  aod  aldccmeti  that  Knighlk^ 
Danvers  Esq.  be  Tot*i*e  Counsel  in  bu  roooie,  and  that  he  be  pqtf 
the  Salary  and  accustocned  fee." 

On    Ai^ujt    wtb,    1714.  tbc  court   o(   aldcnnen    rcqncstal  Un- 
Recorder  Danvers  to  draw  up  an  address  to  tbc  kutg. 

In  1723  the  corporatioo  augtiieiitcd  the  salary  of  Mr  Danmi^ 
"deputy  recorder  and  town  couiucl."  from  six  cu>nca.<i  to  ta 
guiliea*.  In  1741  Edward  Cuthbert  saccccdcd  to  both  o&ccfUt, 
I3(c   fee.    The   fotlowiDg  is  a    list  of   the   other  drputy   u 

tncitidin^  the  ce>brai«l  name  of  the  aj^&assinated  premier  !'- 

— J74J.  Krule  Bcrttc  ;  176).  Tbocnas  Caldcoott :  1774.  Simoo  Adaoui 
1787.  Speoctr  rVrcival ;  1807,  William  Braunston  ;  and  1810,  Job 
Beauclerk.  On  Mr.  Beaucierk's  appointmcat,  the  salary  WMnad 
to  £3^    I05.  od. 

All  the  aboi'e  are  alfo  described  as  "  Town  Counsel  "  or  "ToW' 
Council,"  a  position  wbkh  entitled  them  to  certain  fees  in  Ui-.-'-' 
litiKalkm. 

Coroners. 

The  Northain|>taci  charter  of  1200  provided  that  four  of  tlirMR 
lawful  and   discreet  men  of   the  borough  should  be  cIio«pi< 
common  council  to  keep  the  pleas  of    the   crown  aiul    to  .- 
the  three  rerves    justly    and  lawfully  treated  botli   poor  and  lick. 
Thc«c  were  the  four  coroners,  thus  callrH  from  keeping  ihr  1 
the  crown  ;  their  duties  were  similarly  defined  in  the  charLer  <..  !.., 

The  coroner  was  an  ofiicial  of  coasidnable  importance,  and  tJH 
popular  appoinuiteiit  to  such  an  office,  both  in  counties  and  lowM, 
was  an  imponant  feature  of  £ngli*ih  liberties.  In  1276  the  widv 
powers  and  duties  of  the  coroner  were  fully  defined  by  act  of 
parliament.  In  addition  to  the  duty  and  holding;  of  inquests  in  ill 
cases  of  sudden,  violent,  or  suspicious  deaths,  the  coroner  " 
to  inquire,  through  a  jury,  into  cases  of  wounding,  tiou^eb:' 
rape,  "  riotously  haunlyng  Uvemes,"  treasure  trove,  wrecks,  and 
ar^on.  M(»t  of  the  duties,  however,  herein  3fi<iign«rd  to  the  coroner, 
gradually  fell  into  other  lunds  (as  local  justices  became  mora 
generally  appointed),  or  were  shared  with  other  conservatont  of 
the   peace.      VVlicn    Henry   VII.,   at   the   beginning    of    hts    reiga, 

bewailed  that  "  murders  and  sicyingc  of  his  subjects  dai' -.e,** 

elaborate  measures  were  taken  to  ensure  the  better   i  .   of 


CIVIC    JURISDICTION. 


:«asof>ri<iu«ly  then  regarded  as  ihr  chief  part  of  the  corotwr's 

The  county  coroDcr.  too,  was  expected  to  sit  with  the  •.heriff 

hb  county  court,  ant)  under  certain  circuinslancrs  to  act  in  his 

and  it  was   expressly  reserved  to   the  coroner  or  coroners, 

nld  county  court,  to  ^vc  judgment  and  muke  proclamations 

I  cases  of  outlawry.    Town  coroners  thus  acted  with  or  for  the 

i9.  vrhen  the  towns  were  not  exempt  from  county  jurisdiction. 

PKortlmmpton,  howevtrr.   the  two  bailifls    poss<;s>ed   full  sheriff 

Ts  within  the  lilx-rtic:^,  and  consequently  (he  coroners  sat  on 

I  occasions  with  the  baililTs. 

bas  been   already    remarked,   no   two    English   towns  were 

t\y   alike    in   their  powers  and  methods  of    jurisdiction.     A 

li  feature    nf     Northampton    procedure     was    the    somewhat 

il  incident  of  possessing  four  coroners.     Many  oid  towns  of 

larger    population    only    possessed    two.      King    John    was 

ikuUrly  attached  to  Northampton,  and  scents  to  have  given  it 

fchr  poptilarty-elecled  coroners,  not  only  as  a  mark  of  favour,  but 

'■  -'     'r  II  of  its  growing  importance-      Ipswich  had  lotir  coroners 

\  upon  il  Al  the  same  time  as  Northiimpton. 

At  Northampton,  the  coroners,  as  wc  sltatl  presently  see,  vrerc 

■■  ■'    ■  i^it  of  sitling  al  the  huslings  or  weekly  court  of  record,  a 

l^iik-  unknown  in  many  other  boroughs. 

Another  NorthampUxi  stingularily  was  that  f|uestions  of  treasure 

'rtivt  came  before  a  jury  presided  over  by  the  mayor  as  escbcator, 

ttdnoibythe  coroner,  which  was  the  almost  invariable  case; — 

K'  In  IIm  llitM  oS  Mr   Jobn  brnwiic  b«ln{r«  ihaIoi  annix  Rc^aorum  phi' et  nu* 

[•t*  et    fl«(jine   ibj**    et    r",   neh    viidc    John   browoc,  >iltinK«  »i    Gujhnll,  as 

r>>wj.i:.f  for  tf  aovfiaine  lord  und    lady  kingt  Phtllfpe  ind  Qiian«  Mnrj.  Cliargcd 

'  tii)utM  vl  all  fvcfe  nurtBi  as  thc}r  slmld  be  twnJeiied  irithAll  upon  ihcr 

i  '«  Jury  Amonfpe  all  other  thlitfM  btoitgh*  la  thrir  v«rdit,  uyinge 

i.ird  off   Nonh'ton  tuker  illggtngc  far  a  foand^Kon  fw  »  c^himne]' 

I  (iHiiiii  III  the  tame  (oumlatiaii  sxilj'  iii  old  moavy  and  iporc  llwy  cau  not  sey. 

In    a   frw    towns,   such    as    the   Cinque    Ports,   there   were  no 

foners.  the  mayor  being   definitely  authorised    to  act  as  coroner 

iritifi  hie  year  of  office.     .•Mthough  Northampton  Itad  four  coroners, 

i^t  invariable  function  of  holding  an    inquest  over  treasure 

■-:<:mt  to  have  been  transferred  in  the  sixtc-cnth  century,  and 

ibMrqueatly  to  the  tnayor.    The  above  is  no  isolated  case,  for  two 

ihcr  treasure  trove    inquiries   are   recorded — one  of  the    lime  of 

tlizabcth,    and  another  of    Charles  I.— and    in    both  instances  the 

ir  presided. 

I 


114 


NORTHAMPTON    liOROUGII    RECORDS. 


The  four  coroners  are  first  named  in  the  records  under  the  year 
1559,  The  ordLTs  of  assembly  occasionally  give  lull  lists  ol  the 
annual  Michaelmas  election  of  officials.  The  first  instance  occurs 
in  158T,  when  four  coroners  were  elected,  and  they  are  again 
mentioned  in  1584,  1585,  15S7,  1589,  and  1590.  From  159210  rj^S 
the  four  coroners  are  also  named,  and  on  numerous  subsequent 
occasions.  They  were  often  re-elected,  but  now  and  again  the 
whole  of  them  were  new  to  the  work.  In  1600,  and  for  the  two 
or  three  following  years,  the  four  coroners  were  chosen  (conlrai)' 
to  charter)  by  only  the  mayor  and  aldermen,  and  the  same  wat 
repeated  in  1627,  and  continued  till  1649.  In  this  last  year,  tfce 
mayor  and  aldermen  only  elected  two  coroners,  and  this  small 
number  continued  till  1655,  when  four  were  again  rhotien.  In  1658, 
as  in  the  following  year,  the  whole  assembly  appointed  the  four 
coroners. 


di 


In  1660  the  assembly  chose  three  coroners,  but  reverted  tofoai 
in  the  next  year.     The  selection  by  mayor  and  aldermen  only 
again  adopted    in  i66g.  and    continued    for  several    years.      Ahaut 
1675   the    change    to   two    coroners   became  established,  and  ihry^ 
were  appointed  by  the  court  of  aldermen  till  i63q.     From  that  ycA.^H 
till  1722  the  assembly  appointed;    but   in    1722  the  court  of  aWer- 
men  managed  once  more  to  secure  the  election  of  the  two  coroner- 
for   themselves,    and  exercised    their  claim    up   to  the  year 
For  the  last  ten  year*  of  the  old  corporation,  no  mention  is 
of  coroners. 

Magistrates. 

The  reeve  or  mayor,  the  two  baililTs,  and  the  four  coroners  wff 
practically  magistrates  of  Northampton  from  the  time  of  their  origin*^ 
appointment ;  but  it  is  not  until  1459  that  such  an  office  is  dcHniteiy^ 


mentioned.     By  the  charter  of  that  year,  the  mayor,  on  his  electio**^ 
was  at  once  to  become  a  justice  or  custos  to  Weep  the  peace.  ^ 

n>or^| 
~mbiyV 

iwer«-^ 


The  charter  of  1495,  by  which  a  recorder  was  first  definitclj^ 
appointed,  provided  that  two  other  of  the  more  honest  and 
learned  of  the  co-burgcsses  should  be  yearly  elected  by  the  assembly 
as  justices  and  Itecpers  of  the  peace,  with  the  fullest  power?' 
Elisabeth's  cliarter  of  1599  enacted  tliat  the  es-mayor  was  to  be  «*, 
justice  for  the  year  following  his  year  of  office,  nnd  that  the  assembljM 
should    also   yearly    choose  a  third    justice.      By    the    charter    o^' 

i,  the  mayor,  recorder,  deputy   recorder,  ex-mayor,  and  (hre* 


CIVEC  JURISDICTION.  115 

tthers  chosen  annually  by  the  assembly  from  among  the  aldermen, 
*ere  to  be  the  town  justices  or  magistrates. 

These  elected  justices  had  just  as  full  power  as  if  they  had  been 
Appointed  by  royal  commission.  There  was  no  commission  of  the 
peace,  as  has  been  seen  in  the  first  volume,  until  1837.  Up  to  that 
"late,  every  Northampton  magistrate  was  more  or  less  popularly 
elected. 

The  orders  of  assembly,  now  and  again,  give  the  names  of  the 
■Mnually-elected  justices.  The  two  appointed  by  the  assembly, 
under  the  charter  of  1495,  occur  under  the  years  1581,  1584,  1585, 
'587.  1589,  and  1592. 

In  i6co,  in  accordance  with  the  charter  of  the  previous  year, 
wfy  one  justice  was  elected,  the  ex-mayor  acting  as  the  second 
one  in  addition  to  the  mayor.  Sometimes  a  new  justice  was 
chosen  for  several  years  in  succession,  but  at  other  times  the 
asse-mbly  re-appointed  year  after  year.  Thus  Francis  Fisher  was 
chosen  justice  in  1630,  and  continued  by  re-election  year  after  year 
'■"  1642.  William  Knight  was  also  continuously  elected  from  1644 
to    1648. 

Stewards. 

Every  English    town    had   at   one   time    its    steward.     From  the 

^'E^ry  origin    of    the    word,  an    official    bearing    this  name   acted  in 

ti^e  place  or  sfcud  of  some  high  or  chit-f  personage.     The  steward 

01  the  ordinary  village  manor  courts  presided    there    instead  of,  or 

11  the    place   of    the    lord    of    the    manor.     The   stewards   of   some 

Enfjiish    boroughs  had  a    variety    of    different    official    functions   to 

perform,  but  where  (as  was  the    case  at    Xorthampton)    it    was   a 

town   of    royal    demesne,    the    steward    invariably    presided    at    the 

court    leet    for    the    usual    manor    court    proceedings,    and    for    the 

imposing  of  fines  on  defaulters.     In  some  towns  of    royal  demesne, 

there    might    be    very    little   of    such    work    to  discharge,  owing  to 

the   thoroughly    town    nature   of    the   whole    lordship    (which    was 

usually  placed  under   other   jurisdiction),    but    much   of    the    space 

within    the    walls    of    Northampton     was    for    a    considerable    time 

under   cultivation,    whilst    within    the   liberties  there   was   a   large 

amount  of  common    land  and  fields.     Ilence  the  Northampton  court 

leet  gave  the    steward   plenty   of    occupation,  all    such    matters    as 

the  pounding  of   cattle,  the   straying   of   hogs,  the   obstructing  of 

paths    or    watercourses,    and    the     neglecting    of     fences,    or     the 

unauthorised  use  of  sand  pits  or  stone  quarries  coming  before  him. 

1  2 


m6 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


Some  of  the  cha,rters  speak  of  the  iniivor  presiding  at    the   ojit 
Icct,  but  thiit  H-a&  only  a   technical  statement   as   he   rep 
ibc    king,    the   true   lord  ol    tbc   manor  to  whom   the   court 
and   fines  were   really  due.    just  as    the    mayor    was    the 
representative,    so    in    this  court    the  steward    was    the 
representative.    The  mayor,  of  course,  could  at  his  pleasure 
at  a  leet,  juat  as  any  other  lord  of  a  manor. 

At    NoTlh.-Lmpton,    the  steward   has   also    another    duly, 
was  by  no  means  always  associated  with  his  oflirc  in  other 
demesne  towns.     The  steward   acted  as  clerk  to  the    two 
whenever  a  bailiffs'  court   vnas  held;   the  bailiffs'  court  of   N«ft> 
ampton    was  equivalent,    as   has  been    already    remarked,   lu  the 
sheriffs'  county  court  in  other  parts  of  the  shire. 

The  steward  of    Northampton  was  also    usually  pre^nt  at 
hustings,  or   weekly  court  of  record,   and  throughout   ElirabcUi's 
reign,  and  subsequently  frequently  appears  as  a  witness  of  enrol- 
ment    In  the   later  appointments  the  steward  is  termed  "  BatlMfs 
Clerk  of  the  Court  of   Record."    The  town    clerk    was    invariablj 
the  true  clerk  of  the  hustings,  or  court  of  rpi-ord,  over  which  tbc 
mayor  presided,  but  the  bailiffs   in   this    Northampton  court  al* 
sat  with  the  mayor,  and  the  steward  was  present  on  those  occaMon 
to   act  as  thrif  clerk,  and    as   deputy  clerk    of    the  court.    It  * 
quite  possible  to  imagine  cases    in   which    his  presence    would 
valuable,  when  matters  peculiarly  affecting  the  bailiffs'  jurisditli 
were  under  consideration. 

The  charter  of  1683  is  the  first  to  definiifly  name   a  £t 
or  st-nesiihal.     Henry    Harris,  one  of  the   bailiffs,    was  apj 
steward  by  Uiat  charter  "  so  long  as  he  will  demean  himself." 
was    providmj   that  his    successor    was    lo    be    apixiinted    bv 
common    council,    an     injunction    conveniently    forgotten    by  t' 
aldernieu,  and  overlooked  by  the  assembly. 

Jolin   Brooke  was  <>tevrard  of   Northampton  as  early  as  156 

and    in    1569   the  a«i5embly   ordered    tliat    he    and    his    surce' 
dbauld   yearly    bring    in,    between    Michaelmas  and    HoUuwtidc. 
brief   note  of   the  records   of  the  court,  on  parchment,  with 
names  of  the  mayor  and  bailifT.s  for  the  same  year,  under  u 
of  £s  to  the  use  of  the  chamber. 

On  the  death  of  John    Brookis,  senior,  in    1592,  John   Brool 
junior,   w&s  elected  steward    in  October,  of  that  year,    by 


CIVIC  JURISDICTION.  II7 

nayor  and  aldermen ;  he  was  to  hold   the  ofhce  during  his  good 
behaviour  and  whilst  giving  satisfaction. 

In  1620  William  Brook  was  steward,  but  we  have  not  been 
able  to  ascertain  the  times  of  either  his  appointment  or 
nsignation. 

At  a  meeting  of    the  court  of    aldermen    in    1634,    Mr   John 

Reading,    described    as    "Steward    or    Gierke    to    the     Bayliffs," 

acknowledged  before  the  mayor  and   his   brethren  his   defects  and 

slackness  in  the  exercise  of  the  duties  of  his  office,  by  reason  of 

i    Ids  much  employment   elsewhere,  and  made  suit  for  the  office  on 

.     behalf  of  Robert  Woodforde,  his  late  servant.     "Whereupon  the 

EMaj-or  and  Aldermen  did  goe  to  voyces  for  an  election  and  by 
the  greater  pte  of  the  voyces  then  taken  the  said  Robert  Wood- 
(  forde  was  elected  and  chosen  Steward  whollie  to  succeed  his 
f  Master  in  the  said  office."  Thereupon  Woodforde,  after  he  had 
;  taken  "his  Corporall  Oath  upon  the  Holy  Evangelists,"  was 
formaiiy  admitted  steward,  with  the  proviso  that  he  was  to  pay 
William  Brooke  (late  steward  before  John  Reading)  a  pension 
'or  his  life.  From  another  account  we  learn  that  Mr.  Pilkinton 
i^as  the  rival  candidate  on  this  occasion,  and  that  the  voting  was 
Woodforde,  9 ;   Pilkinton,   7. 

To  Robert  Woodford  succeeded  one  William  Rushton,  but  we 
Kiou-  not  the  precise  year. 

Henry  Rushton  was  appointed  "Steward  and  Bailiffs'  Clerk  of 
^t  Records,"  on  the  death  of  his  father,  William  Rushton,  in 
September,    1665,  by  the  court  of  aldermen. 

.Mr.  Harris  was  appointed  steward    by  charter  in    1683,  but    on 

January'     17th,     1688,    Richard     Harris,    gentleman,     was    "by   the 

unanimous    Consent   of   the    wholl  house,"  removed    from  his  office 

of  steward  to    the    corporation,  and    Francis  Readin-je,  gentleman, 

elected   in    his  place. 

On  January  14th,  1702-3,  the  mayor  and  aldermen  elected  Mr. 
John  Rose  to  be  "Steward  and  Bayliffs'  Clerke  for  keeping  of 
the  Towne  Courts,"  The  bailiffs  were  ordered  at  the  same  time 
to  go  to  Mrs,  Reading's,  and  demand  the  books  belonging  to  the 
steward's  office. 

Mr.  John  Rose  resigned  in  1712,  and  on  September  rgth,  of 
:hat  year,  the  mayor  and  aldermen  met  at  Thomas  Martin's 
:offee  house,  and  elected  in  his  room  as  "Steward  and  Bayliffs' 
I^lerk  of  the  Court   of   Record,"   Mr.  John  Stoakes, 


118 


NORTHAMPTON    BOfiOUCH    RECORDS. 


Henry   WUliam   Markbam,  attorney-at-law,  was  elected  tc 
steward  or  baiUlTs'  clerk  on  Majr   36th,    1768,  by  the  mnyor 
aldcrnwn,  in  the  room  of  John  RowpH,  deceased.     His    duties 
deltiied  as  "Ihe  keeping  of  the  sesi^ions    and  other   Courts  of 
corporation  and  town  of  Xorthampton  " 

In  Januan-,    ij^,    the   court   of   aldermen    elected    Mr.  jc 
Markliam  ''Steward  and    BailifTs'  Clerk  (or  keeping  tJie  Ci 
Sessions  and  other  Court:*    of    this  Corporation,  "    in    room 
father,  Mr.  Hcnij-  William  Markhani,  the  late  steward. 

In  1783  the  same  court  ordered  that  an  armed  seat  be  pnrpan-d 
for  the  »tteward  for  his  use  in  All  Saints'  church,  next  to  ttie 
chamberlain,  in  the  upper  bailiffs'  pew. 

A  lint  of  the  stewards  is  given  in  the  appendix. 

CotntT  OF  Record  or  Hi'stings. 

The  first  charter,  of  1189,  ordered  that  the  huntings  or  town 
court  u(  record  should  be  held  once  a  wxek.  This  anrirnt  en  ■ 
presided  over  by  Ihc  reeve  or  mayor,  and  is  also  spci 
mentioned  in  the  charters  of  1200  and  1227.  The  later  charter^ 
of  1618  and  I7<>G  show  that  this  court  concerned  itself  in  plra* 
plaints,  and  actions,  as  well  real  as  personal  and  mixed,  and  al' 
manner  of  debt*,  accounts,  trespasses,  covenants,  contracts,  delai- 
tions.  and  coniempts. 

Although  no  definite  records  of  this  court  remain,  lliere 
number  of  enrolments  of  contracts  entered  into  before  the 
and  others  in  both  the  urtsa.  books  of  orders  of  assembly. 
area  large  number  of  Eliiabethan  enrolments,  with  other  e- 
down  to  the  time  of  George  I.  From  the  earliest  of  tliese 
which  are  in  Latin  up  to  i603,  we  find  tliat  this  court  was  usually 
held  before  the  mayor,  two  bailiffs,  and  two  of  the  coroners,  which 
is  expressly  stated  to  have  been  "the  cuslomc  of  the  towne  of 
Nortliampton."  The  town  clerk  invariably  made  the  eorolnienu  and 
acted  as  clerk  to  the  court,  but  the  steward  was  likewise  usually 
present-  The  mayor's  sergeant,  or  Serjeant  of  tlie  mace,  was  also  tn 
attendance.  On  two  occasions,  in  the  hrirt  book,  all  four  coruitet* 
were  present,  in  addition  Lo  the  mayor  and  both  the  bail(fT&,  and 
two  instances  occur  in  which  only  one  coroner  altcndrd  At  a 
later  period  the  court  was  generally  composed  of  only  the  mayor  and 
two  bailiffj.  Two  coroners  sot  in  this  court  tfaroaghout 
Commonwealth,  four  in  1662,  and  three  in  1064- 


CIVIC  JURISDICTION. 


rse  enrolments  show  ihat  two  distinct  kind  of  actions  led  to 
I  use  or  the  i:ourt  of  record.     Sometimes   it  was  isimply  desired 
(or  grcalcr  security,  a  copy  of    some  binding  indenture  or 
tONRumt  of  a  local  character,  should  be  made  and  entered  on  the 
town  rolls,  and  this  could  be  effected  by  any  one  on  payment  o! 
certiin  fees.      Other  ciirolnoeDls,    however,  were  of   the  nature  of 
ftajdtiiE;  definite  contracts  and  agreements  entered  into  before  the 
T.J  sometimes  alter,   previous  private  cxAmination  of   the 
i.tncenicil  by  the  mayor.      On   some   occasions  it    is  stated 
it  the  enrolled  conlract  that  the  mayor  and  otlier  members  of  the 
(Oiirl  had  vi;itcd  the  premises,  when   real  properly  was  involved, 
or   had  actually    &tood    al    the  street  door,    to   witness  peaceable 
IfMMcssion  being  taken  of  houses  by  new  owners. 

7  lie  ordinary  enrolment  was  usually  scaled  by  the  common  seal, 
(Ot  mayor's  seal,  ol  the  town  and  by  the  seals  of  both  parlies  seeking 
[wrolmcnL  In  the  instances,  however,  of  special  contracts  before 
ftc  court,  the  following  was  an  interesting  and  very  usual  formula:— 
f"And  because  their  hands  and  seals  to  many  arc  unknown  there- 
[fore  ihry  procured  the  seal  of  the  oflicc  of  maioratlie  of  the  saide 
ItoWBe  to  this  indenture,  to  be  affixed  for  the  greater  creditt  and 
[t^limonie  of  the  premises." 

Orchans'  Coi'Kr. 
In  almost  all  lai^e  towns,  the  mayor  (usually  in  association  with 
'*J»  aldermen)  presided  over  an  orphans'  court,  whereby  the  town 
Oftitne  responsible  for  the  due  care  of  all  orphans  within  their 
, liberties  during  their  minority.  In  certain  boroughs,  notably  at 
highly  interestiiiij  and  early  records  of  the  proceedings 
I'flf  iuch  courts  have  been  preserved,  but  this  is,  unfortunately,  not 
lihe  au«  with  Northampton.  The  old  use  at  Norlbnmpton  was  for 
[ibe  nuyor  in  ihis  courl  to  be  associated  with  the  two  chamberlains, 
not  with  the  aldermen  or  bniliffg. 
The  charter  of  1618  provides  that  the  mayor  and  his  brethren 
crc  to  h.ive  llie  <!ustody  and  ^vernment  of  the  orphan);  and  infants 
in  the  town,  and  to  guard  their  goods,  chattels,  and  legacies  in 
sjwne  manner  as  was  done  in  the  city  of  London.  Subsctjuent 
irterfi.  a*  can  be  seen  in  (he  hrst  volume,  make  like  provision 
the  orphans  ol  burgesses.  There  are  a  few  scittered  references 
the  affairs  of  the  orphans  of  Northampton  in  both  the  orders  of 
E4cmbty  And  in  the  minulefi  of  the  aldermen's  court,  but  there  is 
one  which  ts  worth  transcribing. 


t20 


NORTHAMPTON  BOKOUGH  RECORUS. 


At   an  aaa«mbljr  bcU)   on  Marcli.    22nd,    i5&i-2,   the    foJlowiof, 
order  was  made  : — 

*  PirMi  it  11  agnei  iy   conaeu  as  yt  xfunsaide,  TtiM    whemu   hontrf^we  ■ 
w^tl  in  Anno  Dai  1557.  llwn  irndi  bem  MO  bitted  dlnrsp  good  and  s«dt]nr 
foe  th*  Orptuat**  wilbin  ibe  towM  of  Nortbamptoa  and  like  tib«rl>a*  d  ttia 
«i  is  tke  boke  </  Rnnrde  for    Orpliamo  at    Unt^  appeannb.  And   (ac   thai 
(aide  Ordcn  liatb  ban  bf  mbm  mwlikcd  ot  and  parttj  b/  MinM  Kissed  i«U 
Now*  (fcendora  ronndaring  tbo  gtcata  McnsWa  ol  Ibe  aam*  Ord«R  to  be  pall 
We  doc  eataUulic  faj  tbcM  preaeatn  for  cv«r    Tbai  the  Mid   bake    ot  Ordm! 
Orphanlel  shalb«  accordinse  to  ttic  Irnre  tneanintv  «(    tbe  tame   Order* 
and  kcpie.  Aod  ibti  ohoMiecvr  beloi  (ne  ol    ifae  Eime   lovne   and    R«l< 
obicfvaiion  ill  ibc  aaldc  Ordcn  at  aBy*  tyme   bvmftcr    ahaJbo   by    tbc   ^■.' 
ihe  tjrm;  bc>n|;  cornered  to  prooa  untill  he  or  the;  thall  awl  will  abwfire  ibi 

The  follovnng  oath  of  the  mayor,  as  president  af  the  orpl 
court,    is   token    from   the    Bateman    copy     of    the    No^t^  1 
customary    in  the  British  Museum.     It  is  of  Elizabethan  d.' 
is  of  interest  as  illustrating  the  procedure:  — 

Tws  OrRB  or  rnt  Matob  roR  Orpma-vto. 
And  abo  jrou  ihatl  trady  tamattr  and  kcpa  tbe  ord«n  and  conHltacoe  tevuin 
made  oonoonJngv  grpbanca  (oode*  in  all  pv/nte*  Ibat  tlicfctv  bdongilhe,  M  •!<•' 
clue  jroo  ak.i)l  onrc  la  yourc  tlnte  t>(  7011K  oIKre  at  mBraihc    Emfujrv   v(  ti7  (f 
tiw  sarulea  of  cajr  Bxrcutnr    or   Executon  to  wbom  bb   or  there  Teiuion  £l 
put  in  tiwtt  far  lb«  Ktydp  <i([iliiim    gnodt    b»   dcade   or  nlh«rmt*  «hii11  fodtsi  ■ 
ba  dacajrvd  in  bis  <k  tbtirc  Kubsuunni.  Tbat  tbro  yoo   tball  thrrcupon  Uk«  ur* 
order  (or  tbe  aanw  aa  by  jrourc  dbctrraMi  ahall  nene   to    be  lbbu|[bt  emd  S«  Ai 
Ibe   3aid«    erpbanet    may    he    In    murxtee    off    their   uid«    |[ood«<    an-l 
•ccordine  to  ihctr  parcntea  will  aix)  bctjncdt.  And  furtlier  that  <fon  tball  ' 
jruu  and  the  chambcrloJiio  off  ibc  faidc  Towne  fM   tke  liawr  being  tbi    ' 

in  Iba  lirst  weln  off  lent   in  ibc   time   ut   yoivre  aide  office  nuralfie  ail  ^.. 

SBche  penone  or  penraaa  ai  >hail  tfacn  slDadi!  and  be  bonnde  aa  mwjr  surrtja  « 
■■iMiaa  tor  and  tfMf^Tningt  th«  uida  orpbanM  goodca  la  ihini«nt  that  ; a-:  akdt 
saa  the  saidc  mrdicA  lod  ercrjr  ul  them  alwales  10  be  tullirinni  aail  »tU  ta 
diachat]gc  tbeir  aaide  bondcs  accordinj;  to  ]rO'  wil  and  di»enMiaa> 

Statute  Merchant. 
The  statute  of  merchants,  or  the  statute  of  Acton  Bumell  (u 
it  is  sometimes  called,  from  the  Shropshire  vilbge  when  the 
parlinment  met)  was  passed  in  (283.  fts  object  was  (ocncoun^ 
trade  by  providing  a  more  speedy  way  for  the  rei-overy  of  debt>- 
Tbe  statute  enabWd  the  merchant  to  register  his  trade  bargaia 
with  his  debtor  before  the  iiia}-or  and  clerk  of  a  Utntted  number 
of  chief  boroughs,  arkiH)w*lcd{png  the  dclu  and  stating  the  day 
payment-  Tbe  n-i.-opiii2snce  was.  10  be  entered  on  a  roll  by  the 
clerk,  and  scaJcvl  with  Ihe  debtor's  seal,  and  aUo  with  the  king'c  seai 


CIVIC  JL'RISDtCTION. 


121 


kept  (or  that  purpose  by  the  mayor  and  clerk.  U  the  debt  was 
Dot  paid  0(1  tKe  appointed  day,  the  mayor  was  to  forthwitli 
cause  the  movables  of  the  debtor  to  be  sold  as  far  as  the 
unount  o(  the  debt,    "  at  the  preysinj^e  oE  honest  men.'' 

Two  years  later  this  statute  was  further  expanded.    It  was  then 

0rdcrc4  that  the  king^s  seal  for  statute  merchant  purposes  was  to 

be  in  two  parts,  the  larger  part  in  the  custody  of  the  mayor,  and 

ac  smaller  part  in  the  custody  of  the  clerk.     Power  of  confining 

debtor  in  the  town  prison   until  he  had  agreed  for  the  debt 

was  also  panted. 

'■  Sew    Ordinances"    affecting    these    statutes    were    made  by 

[Uward  \l.,  on    September  27tli,  1311,  when    it    was    proposed  to 

cttbis  taking  of  debtor's  recognizances  to  twelve  towns,  viz., 

[Brislol,  Canterbury,    Exeier,    Lincoln,    London,    Ncwcastlt;.  XorlH- 

[aiqitan.  Norwich,  Nottingham.  Shrewsbury-.  SouthampLan, and  York. 

[Fkoi  the  actual  wording  of  the  two  statutes,  and  the  explanatory 

[Onlinances,  it   is  iwl   quite  certain  whether  Northampton  obtained 

ihe  debtor's    recc^nizanccs  privilege    in     1283.    or    not    till    ijll, 

M  our   own    opinion    is   that    Northampton   was  one  of  the  first 

aaill  group    of    boroughs    that    obtained    and    used    a    statute 

■wchant's  seal    so    soon  as    the    first  .ict   was    passed.      It    will 

^wtiy  be  noted  that    Northampton    obtained  a  seal    in    1319,  but 

:  "*cn:  Acems  reason  to  believe  that  this  was  a  renewal. 

The  Northampton  charter  of  1618  stated  tliat  mayors  of  the 
•"^i"!  from  time  bcj-ond  memory  had  received  recognizances 
I  Kttteen  merchants,  and  made  execution  according  to  the 
•^ttutci  of  Eulward  I.;  definitely  confirmed  those  privileges;  and 
Wminued  the  town  clerk  to  be  clerk  of  these  recognizances.  Subse- 
S"eM  charters,  as  has  been  set  forth  in  the  first  volume,  confirmed 
•**«  right*.  It  was  usual  in  every  borough  for  the  town  clerk 
•"^clerk  of  the  statute  merchant,  though  the  latter  appointment 
*•*  legally  reserved  for  the  crown. 

TTie  sealing  fees  iindsr  this  statute,  though  small,  were  an 
■PPmiahle  advantage  to  both  mayor  and  clerk  in  busy  trading 
tiaes. 

Al  tli«  assembly  held  on  October  26th,  1536,  the  chamberlains 
*"t  henceforth  to  collect  all  manner  of  sums  of  money  such  as 
">«s,  fatfeitures.  and  amercements,  within  the  town,  save  the 
OWyor's  sealing  profits  (under  statute  merchant);  and  if  it  should 
loniiiic  thit  more  ihan   twenty   marks   be   gathered,    the   overplus 


122 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


was  to  remain  to  the  chamber,  and  tJie  twenty  marks  to  be  pa: 
to  the  mayor;  but  if  it  should  fortune  that  there   should   be  I 
than  twenty  marks,  that  then  that  sum  should   be    banded   to  th 
mayor  for  hU  own  proper  use  and  properly  and  nu  more. 

Unfortunately  there  are  no  records  or  rolls  of  these  recpffn 
?anccs  until  we  come  to  the  end  of  last  century ;  but  the  fi 
orders  of  assembly  contains  the  following  entries  of  the  opcnin 
years  of  Ei)lizabeth's  reign  : — 

M"  q"  xvf"  die  ni'tij  Anno  Kcgin  dno  KlUabelhc  Anglie  Knunde  M  Hibun 
p'ino,  Henriru5  Clark  nuper  Wcntan  iavcW  gcn'oiot  renlt  Coram  Jolie  Loii| 
Riairv  villa  Notlhlon  «t  cognovit  se  deberc  Ann«  Clatk  laatri  »ua  cl«  PottFrapud 
Cwiiim   libra*  sierlifjg',  Soli-eiiii'  in  feilo  paiche  p'xo  Emur'  prr  Matiiliim  mrrrKon! 

M"  t)''  p'mo  t]i«  ortobcis  A*  Secuiiclo    l^ginc    EIis4beihe    Willmus    BarnAn 
Sunon  in  Com'  Northton  huibondmen  venit  coram  Tlioma  Hopkjrru   matorB  vfll 
Northtun  et  coKnortt  m  debcte  Jahe  Spencer  de  Alchropc    mlliti    ij   C    li    sttflin) 

■ftlvend'   jd  feitiiRi  S»nrti  LiK-e  p'x'  futur'    per  «tati>lum   mcrCAlom, 

M"  q'  Quinio  die  m'tij  A"  Icitio   R«-ginp  Eiiwhrlhp  Thom«    Willobr   de  Wl« 

dingioti  in  Com'  O;ion  £cn'u*  vcnit  Cor«n)  Tlioma  Hopkini  maiore  ville  Nortlita 

a  rognovtt  St  debere  Willo  Oiaunel«   Annigor'  dueentes  m'ata  aA  Ewlnm  fssA 

p'x'  fuiur'  per  itiilutum  mercatoris. 

M'  the  xviij  d.iy  ofF  Ociubcf  A'  dni  1561  Mr.  Buritby  cam  ■«  Hr.  TtiomiCal* 

malor  and  Mr.  WillUm  T.iykir  Juilic«  nfl  peace  and  braa(ht  in  a  stMute  mcrdEUI 

and  v"  »f  many  w"  a  ddesanx,  sic  quietus. 

In  1583  the  mayor  resolved  to  accept  no  sealinf^  fees  4 
statute  merchant  from  merchants  who  were  freemen  of  the  town 
but  this  was  not  an  "order  of  assembly,"  and  seems  to  have  bea 
only  a  personal  act  of  generosity  during  his  term  of  oflice. 

In  the  case  of  an  intruding  shcriFF  in  1649,  it  was  stated  lid 
his  ofJeiicc  consisted  ''  in  scn'ing  an  extent  upon  a  statute  merchant- 

TIic  references  to  Sir  Tlioraaa  White's  loan,  about  1650  *i 
1660,  generally  state  that  security  was  given  by  statute  mcrchaal 

A  folio  calf-bound  buok,  numbered  lot  in  Mr.  Stuart  Moore' 
arrangement,  contains  copies  of  the  recognixanccs  by  atanl 
merchant  from  1783  to  1803.  The  earlier  forms  arc  ol  |i« 
length,  and  recited  that  the  proceedings  were  based  on  "t!l 
Statutes  for  Recognizances  and  Assurances  of  Debts  of  Merchant 
made  and  provided  in  the  eleventh  and  thirteenth  years  of  t) 
Reign  of  King  Fxlward  the  first  after  the  Conquest." 
17911   a    briefer  form  was   used,  of  which  this  is  an  example: — 

"Be  il   remembered   On   the  27th  day  of  Sept.  in  the  37  Yt 
of  George  the  3*,  1797,  John    Cocch  of  the  T.  of  Xorlhton  in 
Co.  of  Northton  Carp",  and  W»  Cole  of   the  said  Town    Victudi 


CIVIC    JURISDICTION. 


123 


ne  before  Cha*  Smilh  Esq'  Mayor  and  John  Jeyes  Gent  Town 
of   Northampton    and    arknowlrdgcd    thrjnsclvrs  jointly  and 

eraily  b*  by  Statute  Merchant  to  W"  Gibson,  Rob'  Trasler, 
FJiT  Milter,  and  Jeremiah  Briggs  Merchants  in  j^ioo  sitrrling  for 
iNenhanditcs  bought  to  be  paid  on  the  25th  day  of  March  next." 

Stapi.k  Merchants  and  Inventories. 

The  statute  merchants,  and    statutes   relative  to  tbcm,  came 

Ble  existence    for    the    purpose    of    rcgulatlnj;    foreign    exports, 

fiv  of  wool  and  leather.     The  merchants  of  th«  staple  secured 

monofxjly,  and  its  sj-stem  was   a  combination  of  the  principle* 

flf  a  trading  guild  and  of  the  crown  privU^e^  of  establishing  fairs 

markets.     The     towns    of    the    staple    were    centres    for    the 

tion.  trial,  and  assessment  of  the  goods.     The  system  iH'gan 

I  the  reign  of  Edward  I.,  when  he  established  the   foreign  wool 

at  Antwerp.     In  Edward  ll.'s  time  the  nn-Tchants  had   their 

eipi  staples  at  Antwerp,  and  afterwards  at  St    Omer,  and  their 

staples  at  central  towns,  such  as   Newcastle,  York,    Lincoln, 

finchester,  Exeter,  Bristol,  and  London. 

Tlw  statute  of  Northampton,  in  1338,  did  away,  however,  for  a 

with   the   monopolies  of  the  staple,  and  Iradi;    was   set    free. 

Mler  a  good  deal  of  fluctuation,  the  system   was   re-imposed  and 

ilidated   by   the  elatiorate  ordinance   of    the   st.iples   in    135+. 

this  statute  the  number  of  home  staples,  both  in  England  and 

nd  was  defined,  and  also  the  particular  ports  from  whence  the 

from  e.ich  staple  should  be  exported.     It  also  prt3%'ided    (hat 

mayor  of  c%'ery  staple  town  should  have  instant  power  (more 

if  and    summar>-    than    even    under    statute    merchant^    of 

img  the  body  of  a  debtor  to  a  staple  merchant,  and  of  imme- 

ily  selling  his  goods    at  appraisement,  or  delivering   them    to 

creditor,  providing  the  debtor  and    his   goods    was  within  tliat 

|ilc.  and   if  not,  certificate  under  seal    was  to  be  forwarded  to 

cry. 
Subsequently  Calais  became  the  chief  staple  for  English  produce, 
I  for  two  centuries  was  the  wholesale  mart  for  the  distribution  of 
lish  wool  and  lejither  over  western  Europe 

After  the  loss  of  Calais,  in  the  time  of  ^ueen  Mary,  the  staple 
lem  was  thrown  into  confusion,  and  for  a  time  Northampton  was 
itdered  a  staple  town,  and  its  mayor  exercised  staple  jurisdiction 
under  the  ordinance  of  1354. 

On  folio  233  of  the  first  great  book  of   the  orders  of  assembly, 


124 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


just  after  an  unhappy  t^ap  of    no  (ewer  than  66  paK*^^*  occurs 
following  cntrj*  : — 

A"  Dni  1561. 

The  Rerordc  and  tettimonie  oi  atachoRMni  br  Joiin  KrMman  off    Kott 
tnerclutil  of  the  Mlaple  in  the  lim«  of  Th»n»s  Hupkiiu  then   beioi;  msiaur  cf 
goodas  and  monie  of  ona  William  Algar  ipcrchant    of    iIk  staple  as  itts-dOr 
4pp«ar,  *i«.  r 

M'lhc  Pim  ilaie  oR  nufcbe  In  the  thini  yerc  olF  the  Relgiw  of  our 
L«dt«    Qu»ne   KliulMtbe,    John    Kr««>nnn    mctcliAnl   <i(   llic   ttapl*  e»n 
Thomiti    Hupltins   tiuiuur  And   Mr.    William    Taylor   jimticc  of   peace  tiMr, 
Rci{ui(cd  lbs  nioncyn  &nd  coodei  of  one  Wllluni   Al[ar  mcrchaM  oS  tlw 
b«  aucbed  in  ifaa  bandt>t  nR   one  Hrnr}-  Siimronn  mcrrtuDt  off   iht  «<pU; 
•ome  of  iiti"li  itcrlinge  lo  the  ux  of  one  John  Pfcawton  Cilitcn  and  Ha 
off  Liindon  by  virlvo  of  A  Lettre  of  altornay  mad«  unto  the   Midc  John 
From    t.ondon,    lealed  and  subscribed  w*    the  Iiand   of  tbe  seide   Juho 
dated  ibc  sKiiij"  daic  of  fcbruarir   A°  Rrgni  ilar   Rr^nc  l-^luabcibc  tcrtio,  tii 
kloched  the  daj  and  jere   above   writteo,  by    one    Kdw.iril    Jjfkion  wile^iil   n 
tnoicc  by  way  of  process,  at  Northtoo.  el  000  atlojL 

laalc  JoJie  Sa»by,  LteiKu 

The  following  inventories  of  goods  of  debtors  Kciicd  and 
by  the  autliority  of  the  mayor  arc  given  on  several  pagiis  of 
first  order  book  almost  immediately  following  the  last  extrail- 
b«lieve  that  all  of  them  represent  action  taken  under  the  mcfctui 
staple  acts ;  but  it  U  possible  tliat  they  may  refer  to  valuadd 
under  the  less  summary  jurisdietion  of  statute  merchant-  Al  J 
events  they  arc  worth  transfribtng  in  full  ns  Kiving  a  good  idol 
the  contents  of  the  shops  and  houses  of  Northampton  drapers  En  eu 
Elizabethan  days.  They  are  given  in  the  order  in  which  they  a 
copied  into  the  great  volume;- 

Al*  q<  in  testo  Scti  Hugonis  f  1563  Wtlmu  Pjrm  «t  WilmUt  CtuaiM 
venerant  rxMBin  Ridulpho  Mennrd  numrc  vllle  Noriliion  et  petiergni  booi  Ro 
Gaw^m  npr'  «(  p«i  luf^ntmentum  Willi  Goodwin  at  Rirhardi  MortiuE  Apt  1 
«*!..— 

In  priinis  in  Ibc  nabilt  itij  Lode  of  Wood  ..        .«        a' 

Item  iiij  Lode  oi  bey       - - «*UJ» 

Item  xiij  ette»  of  plckllnge  .••        .»    flj* 

"P-Almg,"  a  hiu    t«.n*ai  «Hil  fai  <W«eian4  lh**id*«*(  Hit*'  uTm. 

Item  arij  elles  of  whit  Landcbtun  Clotbe      \'i*  ^' 

Item  lii|  ellef  of  Canvni  ■-    Uj' 
Item  vj  die*  of  hurdeo                                                                .          ..  Q* 

"  HuiJm,"  ■  ■tnMf  i^kKi  I'-nlh.  nwJe  imm  Ikt  riroM  ot  (Ui  iH  knap. 

Iiem  a  dcncn  of  ihlrt  Collen  »        '"     ij* 

Item  v|J  neckeollen  for  chtldrtfl  ij* 

Il««t  1|  KireiiH  Ij  CoyfFes  and  a  hamHterrbeffe  r^i* 

IloDof  hollcn  Clothe  I)  ellei  and  a  tivarten .»  '  >'  1' 


CIVIC    JURISDICTION.  125 

■B  a  plate  coate       ...         ...         ...         ...         ...         ...         v* 

MB  a  6tkio  ot   Sope       ...         ...         ...       viij* 

lem  iij   girdles...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  xj* 

on  i]  boodles  trf  ynckell  wej'inge  a  quartern  ...  ...  ...  iiij' 

"YKkell."  or  inkle,  a  cheap  kind  o(  coarse  tape  or  binding. 

Iton  xiij  elles  of  vallans         ...  ...  ...  ...  ij"  iiij* 

"Valiant,"  a  light  kind  of  drapery,  named  (rom  Valencia,  in  Spain, 
hen  >  dosen  halffe  of  boo  stringes       ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  iiij' 

htBi  li)  elles  of  pack  clothes  ...         ...         ...         ...         ...         ...  xvj' 

bcm  ii)  litcll  broken  coffers        ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  vj' 

fan  ij  chestes  and  ij  coffers  in  tbe  shoppe  ...         ...         ...         x' 

ktm  viij  shelf  bordes     ...  ...         ...         ...         ...         ...         ...         iij*  iiij'' 

ktm  a  old  pack  saddell  and  a  wantye       ...  xx* 

"Viintyt,"    a    leather   itrap,   or  lometimeB   a   rope,   with  which  the  pack  was  seciired  on    a 
pick  bone. 

htm  iiij  barrelles  and  a  strak    ...         ...         ...         ...         ...         ...  ij' 

f       'Strak,"  or  itrake,  a  piece  of  iron,  uiuall^  the  rim  of  a  wheel. 

ttm  the  wood  in  kitchen  and  tbe  yarde  and  the  strete  ...  ...  ...      x* 

brai  a  old  Cobord  and  lynen  whole  in  the  kitchin  ...         ...        iiij* 

hem  a  boltinge  tobe  a  cowle  and  a  pale  in  the  kitchin  ...      ij* 

"Bslhnge  lobe,"  or  boltinjf  tub,  the  wooden  receptacle  Into  which  meal  wa>  »i(ted. 
Ita  Iij  old  barrelles  and  a  broken   coffar  in  the  kitchin     ...  ...  xij' 

[temapairc  of  trestelles  in  bordes  w'  the  potles     ... 

IttiD  a  selinge  bed  in  the  chamber 

lusi  i  mattres  a  blanchet  and  a  coverlet     ... 

hem  ij  bolsters  and  a  pillo  ...  

Item  a  cobord  in  the  chamber 

lltin  iij  coffers  in  the  chamber  ... 

tlwa  a  tabell  a   form  two  trestelles  and  a  benche 

Ilfm  ij  cheres  in  the  chamber   ...  ..  

iltm  a  Lible  standinge  against  the  bedsted  in  the  chamber 

Iitm  i  br.is  pot  and  a  lilell  kettill        

I'eni  iiij  pewter  disshes  and  a  platter  ij  sawsers  ... 

iwra  i  boo  and   vi    aroos... 

Item  a  pavre  of  tonges,  a  payre  of    pot  hokes,  a    cheyne,   a  payre   off 

bellos,  a  fleshe  hoke  ...  ...  ,..  ..       ij" 

''tm  in  the  chamber  ij  bedstedes  v' 

lltm  xij  Ropes  of  onyons 

''™  'j  paire  of  shete.s  ij  table  napkins  and  a  towell 

''«™  V  painted  clothes  in  the  hall  ... 

'""1  vij  potes  

I'm  a  lobe  and  ij  bordes  and  kandelstick 
'""  a  paire  of  botes  and  a  old  jerkin 

"""  a  painting  selinge  ... 

''<™  the  lease  of  the  house        

I'fm  a  boke  of  Davy  Salmes  

"'*">■  Salmes."  the  paaimi  of  David. 

Som 


ij* 

iiij* 

X' 

vj- 

viij'' 

ij" 

xiij' 

iiij"" 

iiij* 

vj. 

xij" 

vij"* 

iiij' 

iiij' 

ij' 

vj- 

,.. 

xij* 

ij'  viij* 

.«• 

V 

iiij* 

!]• 

viij* 

xvj* 

iij" 

... 

vj* 

Iij" 

vj*    y]^ 

126  NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 

A    Inventrie   o(    Certen   Goodea  of    Robert    Gawderns    bdnge  in    Rafe  Manbi 
handes,    pniysed    by     Rirhard    Garnet    and    William    Barnard    the    xviij"    day 
November  A"   1562,  vii. ; — 

Imprimis  vj   dozen  of  V it ry  Canvas  at  x' iij" 

"  V'itry,"     kubufqiiFnUy    aprlt     Vitrrl*,     Vyleiys,    etc.,    wai     a    ipeciai  (ott    of    line    cidti 
originally  imported  from  Vitri  in  Brittany. 

Item  xij  elles  of  holbnd  at   xij** xij' 

Item  xij  elles  of  Holland  at  XV*       ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...    iv" 

Item  xij  elles  of  holl.Tnd  at  xv* xv* 

Item  V)  elles  of  Holland  at  xvij''        ..  ...  ...  ...  viij'    vi* 

Item  vj  elles  of  Holland  at  xij""    .  ,.  ...  ...  ...  ...  vi" 

Item  xxiiij  ells  dollas  at  xi)''  ...  ...  ...  ...  xxiiij' 

"Hollas,"  or  don- las,  a  linen  cliilh  imiiorted  from  Brittany. 

Item  a  blark  gowne  furred  w'*  badger  ,.  ,,.  ...  ...  ...        xxx* 

Item  xxiij  elles  iij  <)iiarters  myddleclotHe  ...         ...         ...         ...         ...   xx' 

Som  ...  ...  ...  ...ix"      X'      6* 

The  Inventorie  of    Certen    parcelles   of    Goodes   lately    belonginge   unto   Geoi 
Andres,   late  of   Northampton,  grocer,  praised  by  John  Fletcher  and  William  Barna. 
upon  ther  oihes  the  xvj'^  day  of  November  A"  1562,  viz.: — 
First,   iiij   plotters,   v  pewtet  dishes,  fyve   sawsers,  ij   porringers,  a  litel   salt 
seller,  poiz  x.tvj"  at  vij"*  le  li 

Item  a  chaffern,  poiz,  xij"  at  iiij*  le  li,..         ...         

Item  a  threat  pan  weinge  viij"  at  v*  a  11   ,., 

Item  a   litci  kettill,  weyinge  j"  and  a  quarter  at  v*  le  li 

Item  ij   bnssK  potes,   poiz  xvj",  at  iiij*"  a  li 

liem  a  little  piislnet  poiz  .it  v*  le  li      ... 

"  PoE.int«r,"  cir  pot*:ii!t,  a  little  pot. 
Item  ij   CandeLstiches 
Item  a  dornicke  coverlet...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...         _         iiij' 

"Dornicke,"    or   lt.^^nex.   a     coarse    sort    o(    damask    uaed   generally    for    curtain),    originil 
maite  at  Tournay,  wliich  wa>  called  in  FlemiBli  Domlck. 

Item  n  flock  bed  .  .  ...         ...         ...         ...         ...         ...      v'  iiij' 

Item  a  whit  blcincket 

Item  a  whit  coverlet   ... 

Item  ij   bolsters 

Item  ij  pillos 

Item  a  cHilde  blanket  red 

Item  3  frock  of  black  Clothe  it'  iij  course  of  pinne  lace 

Item  a  worsted  Frock 

Ileif)  a  worsted  hertill  over  bordered  w'  black  damask 

Item  iiij   yardes  playne  clothe  mothecton 

Item  iiij  white  playne  carson  ...         

**  Carsr>n,"  probably  silk  riband. 
Item  a  white  peticot 
Item  a  childe  blancket 
Item  xi  bookes  and  a  old  service  booke  ...  ...  .., 

Item  a  smock    ... 


iv' 

if 

iiij- 

ij' 

iij' 

vi* 

vi* 

V* 

iiij' 

v* 

xvj* 

vij* 

...    iiij* 

iiij' 

.,* 

xvj* 

xij* 

xxxiii' 

iiij* 

XX' 

...   xij' 

ii' 

viij' 

...  viij' 

xii* 

... 

viij* 

i)' 

... 

viij* 

CIVIC    JURISDICTION.  I27 

ttMB  i)  swathing  bandes  ...          ...          ...                       ...  viij'' 

Item  ij  bolsters vj"" 

Item  a  quire  of  whit   paper         ...          ...          ...          ...          ...          ...  ij' 

Item  a  little  boxe        ij* 

Item  ij  paire  of  course  shetcs     ...          ...          ...          ...          ...          ...  iij'   iiij' 

Item  a  paire  of  Cobbordes,  a  spit,  a  gridiron,  a  paire  of    pothokes,  a 

Erienge  fan,  a  rack  to  hang  a  pot  on,  weyinge  zxix"  at  ij'  le  li  iiij'     x' 

htm  ij  wollen  wheles  ...         ...         ...         ...         tj' 

"WoqUen  Wheelf,"  ipinnlnE  or  winding  wheel*. 

i)  dostn  and  a  halfe  olde  trenshers      ...         ...         ...         ...         ...  iiij' 

A  bovrkinge  tobbe        ...          ...          ...          ...          ...          ...          ...          ...  ill' 

Ailetobbe. iiij' 

K  bmnwll         ...          ...          ...          ...          ...  ij' 

'Kimnct."  or  kimnEl,  a  tub  for  iny  houwhold  purpoK. 

A  Sop<  [yrkin        ...  ...         ...  ...         ...         ..          ...         ...                   ij' 

A  wollen  rele    ...          ...          ...          ...  ...  ...                       ...          ...            iiij' 

ij  pent  cofyrs         ...  ...          ...  ...          ...          ...          ...          ...                     ij* 

A  ptne  benche  clothe            ...          ...  ...  ...          ...          ...          ...            iiij' 

A  cradele    ...          ...  ...          ...  ...          ...          ...          ...          ...                 viij' 

A  «Orit  bagge                 ...           ...  ...             ..           ...           ...                 v' 

A  balf  quarter  sacke  ...          ...  ...          ...          ...          ...          ...                     ij' 

Som  totle     ...         vij"    vj'    ix'    ob 

The  Itivitory  of  the  Goodes  of  William  Brightwen,  arested  by  Anthony  Brien, 
fmv:!,  and  pr,iise<i  the  xj"  day  of  Marche  in  the  third  and  fourth  yeres  of  the 
R(i?ne!  of  Kvnge  Phillipe  and  Quene  Mary,  by  Edward  Manley,  Henry  Wenley, 
Rifh.ird  Garnet,   Henry   Deny  as  foloweth  : — 

In  the  shope. 

Imprimis  h.ijfe  a  tardell  of   vyterys v"      x' 

'rirdclt."  or  fnrdrl.  n  hvindle  or  burden. 
Itflii  vii  v.iidcs  iii  quarters  of  floxe  at  v' 
"fn  iiij  yardes  of  E'''^ne  at  xiij* 

■'fm  It  vnrdes  of  blewe 

li™  h  yurdes  of  Red   Russett  at  xvi''  a  yard 
'■™  ii  v:(rdes  of   Black   Rll^sett 


■""  1  virde  ot   Russett  

Item  xvj  prdcs  of  Jcne  Fustian 

'""I  >ii  y.irries  of   hoiland  at   x''       ... 

Iiem  XV  dies  holland  and  a  d.  at  xj''  ... 

I'm  viij  ^11^.^  hclbnd  at  ix*"  ob      ... 

'"'"'  *vj  tiles  holLind  at  ix        

''"'  ««  elles  holland  at  viij'i  ob     ... 

''*'"  "i  elles  holland  al  xiij''      

''""  i"j  elles  of  holland  at  x'  ob  ... 

''*"'  iij  dies  holland  at  x'         

'"""  ij  tiles  of  holland  at  ix' 


") 

ij" 

ob 

iiij" 

iiij' 
xvj' 

xij* 

iij' 

viij' 
xiji 

xi]' 

X" 

xiiij* 

ij' 

ob 

xi" 

iiij' 

xij' 

iiij' 

ob 

xiij" 

ij* 

iij" 

ix' 

iij' 

xj' 

ij" 

vjd 
Kxij' 

ob 

128 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


Item  a  pound  of  hotnoll  thread  ...         ...         

"  Hotnoll  thread,"  possibly  a  cornipDon  from  Otiey,  Yorki., 
Item  v"  xvij  ownces  viteres  at  ix^ 
Item  xxiij  elles  of  viterys  at  vij*  ob     ... 
Item  xl  elles  wandlas  at  ix''  ob 

"  Wandlai,"  a  cloth  impncted  from  (he  Netherlands, 

Item  xl  elles  wandlas  at  ix'' 

Item  xix  elles  wandlas  at  x'*  ob 

Item  xl  elles  and  q'  wandlas  at  ix* 

Item  halfe  a  pece  off  meddyll  Clothe 

Item  liiij  elles  meddill  clothe  at  xiij''  ob 

Item  v"  and  x  elles  medilclothe  at  xiij'' 

Item  xiij  elles  and  q'  medylclothe  at  viid  ob... 

Item  Ix  ellts  iij  q"  dolas  at  x''  ob  ... 

Item  xlvi  elles  of  dolas  at  x'' 

Item  XXX  elles  iij  q"  normandy  at  ix** 
"  Normandy,"  another  kind  of  Normandy  wove  doth. 

Item  xxiij  elles  normandy  at  vij*  ob    ... 

Item  xxxix  elles  3  q"  normandy  at  vij^     

Item  XXV  elles  q'  normandie  at  vj''  ob...  .,, 

Item  liij  elles  normandie  at  vj''         ,,,  

Item  iiij  fosers  at 

'*  Poser,"  or  forcer^  a  small  chest  or  coffer. 

Item  ij  chestes  at        ...         ...         ...         

Item  the  shelFf  borde  and  the  vallaunce 

Item  iiii  packe  clothes  ...  ...  

Item  iiij  crisomes  at 
"  Crisonie,"  or  ihrisom,  the  white  cloth  put  about  a  child  at 

Item  the  canvas  that  hanges  the  bordes    .. 
Item  V   paire  of  women's  hose    ... 
Item  a  Canvas  shete  ... 

Item  the  end  borde  and  the  stall  borde  

Som    

In  the  hall. 
Imprimis  a  Round  Cobord  at     ... 
Item  a  square  Cobord  at 

Item  a  frame  table  at        

Item  a  bedsted  wt  a  tester  at 

Item  a  fetherbed  A   bolster  ij  Coveringes    of   Carpet 

the  cortaynes  and  a  Frame  settall     

Item  xxxix"  pewter  at 

Item  a  trondell  bed 
Item  ij  carpets  and  v  cossens 
^*  CoBseikSj"  f^it^liions. 

Item  a  boffet  forme  ...  

Item  A  chere  and  ij  boffet  stoles    .-- 
Item  iiij  painted  Clothes  at        


... 

xxij* 

where  thread  wai  made. 

... 

liij"  vij' 

ix* 

xV 

uj^ 

... 

XXXJ* 

viij* 

zxx* 

xvi" 

vij*    1 

... 

XIX" 

xxxiiij' 

ii* 

...  xzxvii)* 

iij' 

iij"  xiij' 

iiij' 

vii)' 

iij*  0 

... 

...  viij' 

vi' 

... 

...  xzxviij* 

ix* 

... 

xxiij' 

i* 

... 

xiij' 

iiij* 

... 

xxiij' 

ii' 

... 

xiij- 

vij* 

... 

xxvij' 

... 

XX* 

xxvi" 

viij* 

vi- 

viij' 

... 

...  ziij* 

iiij' 

... 

... 

XX* 

Iti  baptism,  and  worn  foramOD 

... 



XX* 
XX* 

... 



xij' 

... 

ij' 

iiij* 

...zzxix"    ix' 
xij' 

ij'    . 

xxxiij* 

iiij' 

... 

viij* 

...         ..  xvjs 

work    ij 

mattres 

xliiij' 

... 

xxvj' 

iiij' 

viij* 

... 

vij" 

vjd 

... 

'J' 

iiij- 

XX* 

CIVIC    JURISDICTION.  I2g 

Item  A  sword  and  a  buckler  at       ...         viij* 

Item  A  polUz  at iiij' 

"  PolUi,"  pole  aie. 

Item  a  payre  <rf  aundiorns  at           TJ'  viij* 

Item  A  pairs  of  tonges,  A  fyerfork,  A  barr  off  !om,  A  grediorn  w'  A 

Rak  for  a  pot  at           ...         ...         iij*  iiij'' 

Som ix"  xiij* 

In  the  Chamber  w'in  the  hall. 
Item  A  fetherbed  A    bolster,  A    mattress,  A    coveringe    the    Cortaines 

w'  the  tester  at       ...  ixx' 

Item  a  bedsted  at  iiij' 

Item  a  Close  stole  at  ...         ,. ...      ij' 

Item  4  mans  govrne  at   ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ,.,  ...  xiij*  iiij* 

lien  ij  Coffers  at  ...  viij' 

Ittm  a  Cobord  at y* 

IttBi  ilj  painted  Clothes       ...  ...     vj' 

Item  iij  paice  of  flaxen  sheCes  at  ...         svilj* 

Item  1  paite  of  houllen  sheets  ...  ...     iij*  iiij* 

item  half  a  dosen  of  napkyns  at  iij* 

Ilem  ij  table  clothes  and  a  towell vij' 

l(tm  a  man's  gown  lined  w'  shamlet  at  ...         ..,  xl* 

lien  a  clothe  cote  at Tj*  viij* 

Iiem  a  coveringe  and  a  blanket...         iiij' 

Sm vij"  xvij' 

In  the  chamber  over  the  hall, 

htm  a  Irusse  bed  a  coutourpayne  cortaine  and  the  hanginges  at ...  xij' 

Item  a  coffer,  a  cradle,  and  a  bedsted        ...          ...          ...          ...  ,„    vj'  viij* 

Som           ,„         ...         ...         .,,  xxix'  iiij* 

In  the  parier, 

''tm  a  table  w'  a  carpet        iij'  iiij* 

Ittm  a  Unche  at    ...          iij"  iiij* 

Ittm  the  painted  clothes  at „         ij"  viij* 

'"w  a  serples  at xvj** 

Som ...  x'  viij* 

In  the  Cetchyn. 

'"">  ij  btassepots xx' 

'■f™  ij  panes  at  xij' 

''«'»  i  kettell  and  a  skyllet  at xij* 

*t5iltt,"  J  imall  mrlal  pol  with  a  long  handle. 

"^  i   dryppinge    pan    a    frying    pan    a    spyt  a    pere    of   pothokes  a 

skomer  ...  ...  ...  iiij'  iiij* 

"Skomtr,-  skimmer  > 

''"»3pan ij- 

''"0  'iij'  Candelstickes  at ij" 

Som  xlij' 

K 


I3» 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


In  the  Tsverne. 
Item  a  chest  and  v  bordei  and  pultf  and  old  woods  w*  a  Rope 

lum  a  hone  biydell  or  liiddell  and  brydell ,., 

Item  wood  at  Ihe  garden  at ...         ...         

Item  tiejr  al  the  stabk 

Sm       

Sotn  Tot.  of  thb  Inviutrie  am'..,         ...         ... 


...    ««• 

JtXX* 

...«I»j»viii* 
Saxbjr 


ob 


The  Mavor  as  Arbitrator. 

In  the  case  of  civil  disputes,  the  mavor  of  Norlhainpton  bad 
the  power,  if  both  parties  accepted  his  intervention,  of  appointing 
arbitrators  to  make  a  full  investigation  into  the  points  of  difference, 
and  their  award  was  to  be  final  and  binding.  Two  sixteenth 
.century  instances  of  the  exercise  of  this  power  have  found  their 
way  into  the  lirst  volume  of  tiie  orders.  The  hral  of  these  occurred 
during  the  mayoralty  of  Henry  Ncalc  in  1553.  The  mayor 
appointed  two  arbitrators,  and  their  award  was  entered  and 
witnessed  by  the  town  clerk,  its  truth  and  justice  having  first 
been  testified  by  the  arbitrators  on  oath.  It  is  rather  curiouft  to 
note  that  in  this  case  the  dispute  arose  concerning  land  at  Moultoa, 
and  the  litigants  were  of  .Moulton  and  Moulton  Park  respectively. 
Messrs.  Tresham  and  Haynes  were  both,  however,  freemen  of 
Northampton,  hence  the  mayor's  jurisdiction. 

The  Record  and  Icitymonye  off  Thortiiu  I.ath4m  off  Moultan  pnrke  and 
E\ly>  Kit  Muulton  of  and  for  certayn  CDVcnantes  and  bari^afitc:!  between  Mr. 
Tresham  and  William  Kaynes. 

We  ihe  said  ThornJia  and  Thomas  do  wyCiies  that  ihe  Myde  William  Hejroea 
did  covenant  and  frrauni  to  the  «eyd«  Mr.  Trefxarm  a  parcell  oil  grouade 
belonging  10  the  manor  oil  Mullun  eallyd  OTcr  lljrni  Landes  RcMrrjrnK  the  tboraa 
growyngc  upon  the  »amc  unto  Ihe  seydc  William. 

Item  it  the  tame  tJtrre  afomaid  did  ([raiinl  to  the  teyde  Mr.  Trenam  a 
beloncinice  tu  the  seyde  mannor  railed  kyjrhtburye,  the    wiche   cittue    upon 
Comunyration  at  th«    uime  t^tne    h«  Rei«aj«d   to  the  »evd«  William  for  ■ 
part-el  grnundo  belongyngp  to  the  Mine  mannor  callyd  Damiilade  condytionatly 
i(  he  the  seyde  Willi.im  did  let  Che  rioixe   to   any    man  the   said    Mr.  TrcfttM  ts 
have  it  beffore  any  oihar. 

Item  That  Mr.  Tieaaim  ihuld  have  all  the  CeoTta  bciogc  and  tocraayng*  withb 
the  eloiie  callyd  Conyngryt  at  all  times  payinge  therffste  to  the  seyde  WillUm  axa^ 
cowplet  uf  Cuayes  yeclye  at  soche  CiiiLc  aa  the  icyde  William  will  Requrrc  tbea 
gTjinge  the  Iccpsr  iij  or  iiij  d»ywt  warnynge  (or  the  takyage  oR  tbam. 

Itmn  yff  fortuned  an;r  Conyca  to  brede  in  foretera  cloive  the  %ey6e  Williatn  t* 
IttM  tbem  to  hb  own  usa  in  wytneM  oE  tha  prcmyaNa  wv  th«  parties  abovesejd* 
haw  aubaenbed  our  nainas. 


CIVIC    JURISDICTION. 


I3i 


\1s«  rii^b  dak  off  Aprill  in  ihe  rij*^  yen  ofl  the  rciEa  of  our  sorcraff:<i  Icrde 
li)r«te  E(lw»t4  *fxt  Thonus  Latkatn  and  Thotnat  Ellis  wilkjrn  namyd  rxm  beilure 
(H  Hcnrr  Nole  major  off  ibe  townc  erf  Nonbton  and  then  cworne  do  teatify* 
upon  tlnr  oilm  tlw(  all  the  coreniunica  wilhin  written  be  iust  mA  true. 

Saxby. 
The  second  instancT  is  an  award  made  between  iwo  townsmen 
in  1555  by    four   arbitrators  who   were  appointed  for  that  purpose 
by  the  mayor.  Mr.  William  Taj-lor  :— 

The  amrde  o*  John  Harpol),  H«iu;r  Prior,  Thomai  Hopkyec,  and  Marks 
"Bufby  nutdc  the  six*^  Dale  of  mty  In  the  first  and  Mcontlc  ynm  nF  ihc  Rcigncs 
«1  ki»](  phillipc  aad  qume  tnaric  Of  and  conccmvng  all  nianiior  of  maitcm  de- 
pending in  Tariaunce  between  Thonian  Morlejr,  Tannar,  and  John  Walker,  turbsr. 
u  lolutrthc  ;— 

Ftrrt  the  Mtde  atlwitocs  do  awards  Ihat  the  aeid*  Thotnaa  Morlev  and  John 
LWalkec  Uulbe  (rocn  henifonhe  lorera  and  Frendn. 

Also  tbrv  du  itwiicdc  tlu<  llin  huustio  Ihat  John  We*ton,  Tannar,  doth  dwell 
U  (lull  Reraayne  to  the  me  of  Tboma*  Morley  and  his  hairet  for  ever,  and  that 
)«ha  Walker  shalbc  thereby  discbarired  thercol. 

Abo  tkey  do  iwatdr  that  Thomat  Morlej  the  sfl!d«  John  Weitcn  and  Annys 
UiiiKe  ind  the  loBj[cr  lyvcr  of  them  10  inhnbll  nrd  dwell  in  his  howMc  without 
W(^  gale  From  Ihe  dajr  of  making  of  IhU  .iwarde  duting  their  ]ywi  natural] 
uA  Aa  longer  lyeer  of  ibem,  yelding  and  paying  iherfor  ymij  to  Ihe  wide 
Tk«»  Morley  and  hi»  a>»i|;nco  aiij'  iiij*  and  th«  »cidc  Thomoa  Morle)"  shall 
«wn«  the  teitit  hoiiHc  to  Ihe  seide  John  Weston  atl=>i"'<t  all  men  during  the 
"^  ttitne  and  shall  kcpc  all  Rcperaroni  of  ihc  wide  howoe  durioj;  the  tcnne 
■neunde  at  hi*  ownc  proper  Cu«t«i  and  Chargit*, 

Abo  ihcy  do  awarde  ih«t  the  Rem  of  xli}*  and  iiij'  thalbe  paida  qiianorlji  at 
^■7  quiner  or  within  aiiij  dales  after  every  of  the  quartet  daica  and  if  the 
"■M  bt  inpAide  al  an^  of  the  seide  t]nart«r  daiFs,  if  it  be  lavffully  aiked  then  it 
■•ilhBUwffBH  for  the  jcidc  Thomas  Morlcy  to  Reenter  cind  Repossess  and  enioyc 
«•  ow  ItouM*  as  he  had  In  faia  Former  catate  nod  if  the  rent  be  lawffully  asked, 
*^  ikej  do  awarde  thai  ihLi  arbitraement  shalbe  enrullyde  for  tbc  a»uraunr«  of 
•^•iejohn  Weaton,  tn  witncs  whcrof  the  »«idc  atbitrora  have  Kt  their  >eale*, 
thive  and  yeare  above  writon. 

Saxbr. 

The  Mayor  as  Escheator. 

IV  mayor  of  Northampton,  as  was  usual  with  towns  on  the 
royal  denwsne,  seems  to  have  been  Ihe  king's  csclieator  within 
llw  libenics  (torn  the  first  foundation  of  the  office ;  but  the 
ocbcatorship  was  not  a  chartered  privilege  until  1445.  The 
sobscqaenl  lAarters  of  1452,  t459.  1618,  and  1683,  all  definitely 
confirm  this  right, 

An  escheat— a  Norman- French  word  meaning  chance  or  accident 
— signified  an  obstruction  in  the  course  of  descent  of  real  property, 

K   2 


I 


■3f 


1      ,<   I 


-V-       -.'     -.i: -::,-:     -.t:v      :      u-     -.rTiiLSSS^ 


;:■-■.   >■.-    .■    -T.ir   i«,Trt.--i:    -     m  l',.r-=  "i- »^ 

■     ■    .   t  ■:• .    iti'i  (■•.■.•■   :*:■    'J-   I'lTLti  ii.ir    le    -.:misi-e!i  *  ""^ 

■■-      I. 'I       ./    i'    ';  ■(.<■    K  -.^     '«■    :■-   ••■J^rt     :r     eh    r.:r.3B«it  sa" 

-il      1/   ii   !■,  till-   K<'g*.  y-j.   '^i...  — :/tltt   Kill  rjfK*"** 

■■    ''t''    ■'    .■■■■    tl.,1,.  Ayl. I  .J.^.  rijjt.;  ;'^eT-errt=^    e-  t^'.b -;  ?>« 


"■   II. -I       l.i^I.   U|.,i.j..i|i   l»  y>i'i    I',  I'.'j^  ;-r  »^t  if  jr"   :fi--s.  7-;ii  «*-■ 

'■'■''     '■■     "i;     "1- I  itli' I    I'll    ff'iiftft    promise  ^ic  Lszvf,   ti^c   a;  S^ 

" '■■"   '"■'■ ■'•      1 Ii,.ll  l.ilir    ikm:    ^hin^  wherttj   --i!   -^   =»r  ^ 

' "    '  '■"■■'  ■■  'I'Im-.I,   \ I,.tll  ii.ilin  ;in<l  tikH    wiselie  rtr.Lrst  ix*^ 

' '"'"      ■'•""       I""     lull   III   vi'   |ii.i]>rr    [HTMjn    make   the    ti;«i;s  «  J=^ 

"  '''    '  '' I   lii'infii.i  iHiiKif  ;ii  ofttn  as  thej  be  takez  btSiit  JJ"" 

'  "    '       '"■' Ii.  1    l»'    t.iki-ii,  ynii    »h:iU    take  noe   Barli'e  i:fia  T^ 

'II    iiiH.i..   (..i,  .111,1    v>"i  sh.ill  doe  yo'  Bayliie  :o  teiiu 

■' ■    ■     I    '    ■■    III  ...  .1..  ,„    !.'■>  iii.tll  tiiH-lip  ,in(l    ri(;ht  wiselie  j-elde  aKo!"?* 

I  ''■  I'    •  ■'    'II  >li»'    >.i-n,'«  III  viHir  Rtvliewyke,  you    shall  take  w 

'■''■'     ' '    '""' ■   »<"■'  till-  cfliviv  of  the  statute  theieof  iwfc 

II.. 
'• ni\»M  ill.-  oflUo  ol"  owhcator  was  a  real 

■■"" '^.i'.iv.-,;  liio  Ivltcr  class  of  townsmen 

'      "  J 

,..,,.         '  '' "      :':\>;\.i;':v  i\w  mayor  of  Northamp- 

'•■''  ^  •"«■■- ■••\.n5  v»\ir>- from  the  exchequer. 


civic    JURISDICTION. 


'33 


for  the  discharge  of  his  duties  as  esclicator,  and  he  undoubtedly 
aude  full  annua)  returna  to  the  barons  of  tlie  excht^iuer  at 
WeMminaier ;  but  eventually  these  tines  were  allowed  to  be  retained 
by  the  mayor  for  hi»  own  payment  and  for  the  good  of  the  town. 
This  latter  course  was  most  likely  permitted  after  1478,  when  the 
nayor  ceased  10  be  sworn  at  Westminster.  The  idea  in  pdrmitttn^ 
(lie  town  to  retain  th<:>e  and  other  fines  wa^  that  the  annual  fee 
farm  rent  wu  an  equivalent  to  the  trrm-n  fur  all  fiuch  favours. 
Tbe  real  truth  was  that  the  collection  and  poising  on  to  the  crown 
cf  CKbcatfi  or  6ncs  over  such  a  small  area  as  the  liberties  of  a 
town  like  Northampton  was  not  worth  the  trouble  and  cost  and 
'dunce  of  pcculalion  that  were  involved  in  the  transaction.  The 
moM  lucrative  part  of  aji  cschcatnr's  position  was  the  holding  the 
forfeited  goods  of  felons,  and  this  was  exprc-sly  allowed  to  the 
mayor  of  Northampton. 

Rclercnccs  arc  made  in  the  earlier  records  to  the  "Mayor's 
Booke  of  Escheats,"  and  to  the  "  Roll  of  the  towne  eschcalorc," 
l>ut  unfortunately  nothing  of  that  kind  is  now  extant  among  the 
Nvrthanipton  muniments. 

The  Mavoh  as  Clerk  or  the  Makket. 

As  all   markets  were  grants  from  the  crown,  so  it  came  about 

tltat  the  clerk  of  the  market  was  an  Iniportant  official  of  the  royal 

houseliold.  who»e  duty   it  was  to  take  charge  of  tbe  kin^^'s  weights 

and  measures,  to  keep   properly   stamped    standards   of    them   all, 

and  to  go  on  circuit,  by  himself  or  through    deputies,  testing   the 

accuracy  of  the  measures  in  use.     In  a  few  cases,  even  in  country 

|dtsiricia,  there  were,  by  special  patent,  local  clerks  of  the  market, 

as  for  instance,  throughout  most  parts  of   the  duchy  of    Lancaster. 

A  certain    number  of  town»   on    the    royal   demesne  rIso   obtained 

I  tbe  much  coveted  privilege  of  having  their  own  clerk  of  the  market. 

Aa    early  as    1385,    the    mayor   of    Northampton    obtained    the 

,  chartered  right  of  control  of   the    weights    and  mciisurrs,  and  was 

^confirmed  in  the  position  of  clerk  of  the  market  by  the   charters 

lol   i6t8.   1683,  and  1796.     Towns  that  did  not  possess  this  privilege 

were  wibjcct,  any  cLiy.  to  the  incursion  of   the  king's  clerk  of  the 

[Diarkrt.  who  wmdd  ride  into  the  market  place,  accompanied    by  a 

[troop  of  attendants  carrying  all  the  standard  weight*!  and  measures. 

'The  royal  official  would  insist    on    testing   the   town    weights   and 

^measures  at  cunsiderabte  fees,  destroying  alt    the   faulty  ones,  and 

claiming  for  himself   and    retinue   free   board  and   lodging   during 


«34 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROt'CH    RECORDS. 


bis  sojourn,  aud  a.  tre&h  relay  of  horses  to  talte  them  to   the    next 
market  town. 

From  all  this  inconvenience  and  possible  undue  exaction  North- 
ampton was  saved.  On  tlie  day  that  tlie  new  mayor  ecilered  on 
his  office,  he  received  from  his  predecessor  the  standard  weights  j 
and  measures,  and  almost  immediately  issued  orders  through  the^ 
Serjeants  I  hat  all  nhoplceepertt,  bakers,  brewers,  innholders,  and 
traders  shuuld  »eiid  their  weights  and  measures  to  the  market 
cross,  guildhall,  or  some  appointed  place,  there  to  be  awn- 
pared  with  the  standards.  A  market  jun-  was  sworne.  and  to ' 
them  would  the  mayor  submit  carh  disputed  question  as  to  faulty 
or  fraudulent  measures.  The  hnex  imposed  on  oRendcrs  went  to 
the  common  chest.  This  Northampton  jury,  previous  to  the  fire, 
met  at  tlic  market  cross.  In  the  mayor's  accounts,  for  many  yeara, 
appears  the  annual  charge  of  ten  shillings  for  the  dinner  given,  at 
their  Jirsl  summoning,  to  the  markrt  jury.  Questions  of  prices, 
particularly  of  com,  were  sometimes  referred  to  this  jury,  as  well 
as  the  regular  assize  of  bread  and  heer.  Reference  nill  be  made 
in  a  subsequent  section,  when  describing  Ihc  market,  to  the  actualj 
weights  and  measures,  as  well  as  to  the  tumbrell  and  pillory. 

The  market  fines  were  to  be  recovered,  if  necessary,  by  distress.! 
The    following    elaborate    order    was    made    by    the   assembly  on 
August  25th,   1608  :— 

Whpnat  upon  Ian-full  JnquirJ*  made  by  Rdward  Konsctnaa  nuior  of  the  towiw] 
of  Northitnpion  .ind  rlcrkc  of  ibe  market  there  upon  the  oath  of  lij  men,  pivxeni-J 
in«nl  ys  nait  of  divcrw  persons  defertiva  ai  ui»U  in  ihe  k«<epifl;  of    thf   assiM  sf 
bread.   \>*tte.    and    .il«,   <nd    in    luving  of   iinliitt    and    f.nlst    wdghts.  is    aim  n 
dIvcsM   oilier   ttiiiig;«    contrsric  to  th«    tnwo    and   MMiite*    of   this    Rcalmci  knJ  | 
ihereupon  the  olTenderi  by  aflerori*  choMn  art  afl«red  fyned  aail  amerced    A«  la 
a  buuhe  of  Bilicjic^i  iii  that  bcliitlf  made  appe-Aicth ;  It  ys    ni>wt   oidcred   that  llic  , 
fiowo  CliimbnrUiiiM  of   the    laidc    towne    of    Northampton,  to^bor    with    Edwar 
Smith,  nowc  ncrjexnt  to  the  m«ce  ol    the  Maior  within  the  laide  towne,  «h;i]l 
and  dcfnaund«  the  »iud«    fyn»>  «rid    «Rierdsni«nttt  of  «veri«    person    in    tb«  audal 
booke  of  EaheniM  apvcifivd,  And  for  r>i>vrt  p;iymenr  thrtvof  thiil   yx    Rhalbe  h« 
for  llic  Mid    ChambnUinM  and   MTJcani    joindic   and    cither  of  them   by   hla 
seveisIHe  to  disiraine  the  utne  person  or  penona   by  thcHr  goods  and  chattcU,  ml  ' 
the  diiues  hoc  taken  tij  ke«pe  by  the  ipace  of  Iwoc  daycs  at  ihc  costs  and  c-hatitt 
tS  tli«  owner  cher««f.  And  yf  the  uid  owner  doc  not  paye  luch  lume  of  inot)q>  mJ 
jt  In  thE  oaidc  booke  meollon«d  within  the  salde  twoe  dayes,  (hen  itie  mum  i 


•Affrrort,  aj  tllr<ra»   Idiriv*.!  tmm  the   Krcnfh    a^r,  to  alSm)  w^rn  m*a   tworn   to  • 
6nM  |uit)y  on  ntfenitn,  twfore  coun  Ic*t*  knd  other  Uk«  coiiru.  whtn  itSMU  law  6U  net  pnvU 
wbat  the  tot  thould  be. 


CIVIC    JURISDICTION. 


»35 


ta  ■(•jKwised  ^  twoc  0f  Uw  inhabitants  of  Ibe  wdc  Ivwn*,  xnJ  ilitn  to  b*  M1U9 

bf  lb*  C)Lind>erblne»  and  aerjeaiit  or  ^Uwr  ol  them  for  tka  pjfBMDt  of   tbo  uJdt 

lljiw  («  fjrec^  .1'  I   or  atneirininDtiti,  and  ih«  otm-plus    coming   of   the   m)s 

fftwl  kcc^kf  t)>'  i.T  Ibe^  b«}  t«  t«  ]r(n6diatli«   mtorcd    to   the   ownM-  of 

tba  nam  diMm.  ami  IM  to  thU  intent  fhmt  ihatbe  a  w>rniBt  u(  Bitoinejr  made  to 

itW  uiile  Cbainbaiaina*  and  Mrjunl  Uom  tli«  Corponcoa,  or  to  anlo  uibcr  officer 

[itttk  ili4ni,  under  tlt«  taww  maII,  And  jrt    ir«   finallie    ordained   and   enncted   that 

(loei  brBifwiftk  for  ever  after  creir  inqulrie  to    be   made   by  *t!ie   inaior  of  thia 

(l«w.iR  (nf  (he  lnn«  Wing,  as  rietke  of  tlw  nwrket  thcrv,  all  fytit*  and  amen-i^rncnta 
upoA  «««He  alnpilar  offenders  head  fTom  tjme  to  tymc  thnrcupoc  xeit  and  prefixed 
ahalbci  asked  Itvjtd  iind  colleclcd  by^  the  ChamberUiia  of  the  lownc  of  NonlKi>ii|>t9n 
•»d  Mt)«Bii(  ta  the  mace  of  the  maior  of  the  uide  town*  for  the  lyma 
Wing  or  one  of  them  in  lutbe  like  and  in  cbe  rcrie  same  manner  and  forme  in 
C*v4e  myclB.  «•  the  nowr*  cbamherlaiiia  and  the  nowe  tcr)ean4  lo  the  mace  of 
I  tiM  aaide  aom  tnaior  hj  force  and  vertee  of  this  order  ma;  aslte  levie  collecie  and 
diitralne  (or  tbuoe  ^mes  and  amcctuiaenta  nowo  in  the  uide  biMke  of  BacboaUa 
iperifieil,  etc. 

I  Vernalls  Inquest. 

One  of  the  stFOUgt;st  democratic  notes  oF  English  municipal  life 

vta<t  ibc  frrf  rcson  to  the   judgment  of  sworn  jurors  in  almost  all 

case»  o(   difficulty  or  perplexity.      Local   bustna<v<i   of  cvrry  kind 

came  utxler  this  custom  to  a  far  greater  extent  in  the  towns  than 

1^^  in  tlie  country      In  some  towns  it  wa'^  the  custom  to  chose  jurors 

If^who  were  themselves  to  elect  the  corporation's  officials,  in  others  to 

aittess  taxes,  and  in  certain  places  to  settle  disputes  as  to  street 

paviage  or  such  like  public  duties-     Di-sputrd  boundaries,  in  three 

or  four  boroughs,  were  also  submitted  to  a  jur)'  of  the  tou-nsmen. 

For  the  settlement  of  differences   with  regard    to  boundary   or 

partjr     walls,    and    such    like    matters,    the    Northampton    custom 

was  to  summons  a  jury  termed  Vernalls,  or  the  Vernalls  inquest. 

■A^  A    consideralilc   effort    has    been   made   to  discover    the    meaning 

^■or  tiic  origin    of  this  highly  unusual,  if  not  unique,  expression,  a 

t       "  Vcniall*    InqucM."    but  though  a  great  variety  of  sources,   both 

I  local  and  otherwise,  have  licen  consulted,  no  explanation  of  the 
lenn  ha*  u  yet  been  offered,  and  we  must  at  present  be  content 
to  »imply  accept  tl  as  the  definite  name  for  a  boundary  jury 
regularly  appointed  within  the  liberties  of  Northampton  for  the 
settling  of  a  frequently  occurring  dispute. 
There  arc  several  incidental,  but  quite  brief,  references  to  a 
Vemall*  inquest  in  the  first  great  book  of  the  orders  of  assembly. 
The  }urur9  were  twelve  in  number,  were  summoned  by  the  scrjcant 
of  iSc  great  mace,  were  presided  over  by  the  mayor,  and  had  their 


136 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


verdict    recorded    by   the    towTi  clerk.     Tltcre  was   at    one  time  a^ 
regular  VemalU  inquest  book,  but  it  is  now  lost. 

At  the  end    of  the  second  volume  of  the  orders  of  assembly^ 
there  are  eleven  instances  of    Vernalls   inquests  entered    in   detail, 
extending  from   1664  to  1724.     Four  examples  are  given  : —  ^ 

M*in'  That  tEi»  Jury  for  ll>«  V«rnoIU  Inijiivat  upon  thair-  Corporal!  Oatlie»,  upon 
•viev  of  n  Wall  tundins  brcwRcne  ihr  i^und  of  Thnm>«  Pokint  on  lh«  Southtid* 
and  the  ground  of  Mr.  Ttiomas  Turland  on  tbc  Nonhiidc,  h>vc  given  the  said  vtll 
unio  (h«  s'  Thomuii  Perkins  as  belon^ng  nntu  th«  Tenement  wh«rein  be  now 
tivctb  In  the  DridKe^rtctp  nccrc  unto  «  Tcncnvcnt  called  nr  known  bj  the  aamed 
the  Wheat   Shestfle.  f 

13*  Aprilh,  t68i. 
Mem'  Th,it  the  Jury  for  the  VemalU  Inquest  upon  their  CoqMrall  0*thci 
(finding  by  the  evidence  uf  WillUm  Sherpe.  Mary  Drable.  and  Edwntd  HtUiar  tint 
Ihero  wcrv  wJndown  ihruugh  itir  wall  from  widow  Drablpi  ho«Be  into  Thomu 
Nirholson's  yard),  Clvr  ihu  sa\d  Wall  lo  Mr.  John  Chapman  ih«i  new  pnrrliaMI 
of  Widow  Draltl.cx  hoai«  oillcd  focmerly  the  White  Bcaie;  And  doc  order  (he 
same  wa.ll  to  be  built  upon  th«  old  foundacon  aa  part  of  it  Is  and  that  the  Hve* 
dfopp  a*  formerly. 

t4«>  Julli,  1684. 
Mem*'  (hat  the  Jury  for  the  Vcrnnlb  Inquest  beinf;  called  acconllnc  to  the 
Cuitome  of  the  towne  and  sworne  Say  upon  their  Oithen  Thai  lh<y  doe  fyade 
Open  the  View  of  the  Walls  o(  ibe  bouse  ol  Eli* ;  Smyth  widd  :  in  Cotledg*  Lam 
that  the  wall  bciirecn  lior  howic  vo  the  Suwtli  and  the  house  uf  Abram  Hayo  It 
Widii  :  Sroythn  wall.  »ttd  th(?  South  ivjill  of  hrr  hotvsR  beiwcvne  ber  said  kowM 
and  the  hawse  of  Francis  B.nttcn  belongclh  abor  to  the  said  Widd  :  Smyth  Awl  ^_ 
alioe  the  wall  on  the  North  adjoininfr  to  William  Grwne  doth  aboe  belong  t«  (b*fl 
said  Widd  -  Smyth,  Ard  th^i  all  ihe  said  Walls  doe  and  fomeily  did  belong  to 
tile  howic  of  the  taid  Widd  :  Smyth. 

iTth  June,  1734.  ^M 

Mem**  the  Jury  called  the  Vcrnars  Inquest  belnz  alt  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  of 
Northampton  and  l«venil  of  them  ikillEiil]  and  experienced  workmen  have  ibis  day 
at  the  tnsiann;  and  Request  of  Francis  Allen  viewed  a  Dr^in  or  Waierrource  ia 
the  Backside  belonfpng  to  the  now  dwctling  hounc  nnd  cnaieoif  Edward  Stevenson 
(late  the  divelllng  house  and  estate  of  Daniel  Cockerill)  sitnaie  in  the  uidTownof 
Northamplon  which  u  made  and  lyes  over  the  fcround  of  the  said  Pranria  Alien 
doM  to  ihc  foutidacon  of  hi*  houK,  and  upon  the  Virw  iheieof  doe  find  tbc  said 
Drain  or  Watercourse  tv  be  an  Annoyance  10  the  said  Francl*  Alien  by  a  Damage 
to  hia  faundacon,  And  In  the  judgment  of  the  »aid  Jury  the  way  to  prvrcnc  ■(? 
further  Damage  being  done  to  (he  Foundaron  ot  the  said  Francis  Allen'*  houae  If 
the  uid  Drain  or  Watcrrourtc  n  to  by  a  leaden  Spout  or  GtiiTcr  along  the 
ground  beln-cen  the  two  Scilr  Cases  of  Ihe  said  Edward  Slereoion  and  FrvKi> 
Allen  from  point  to  point. 


I 


CIVIC   JlIRISniCTION. 


137 


The  name  of  the  twelve   jurymen  in  this  last  case  aie  written 
tbr  side  ul  tlie  entn'.   . 

From  the  beginning  of  ibe  mayor'B  accounl*  there  is  invariably 
;  annual  entrj*  of  ait  rxpenditurt!  of  itw.  for  dirnpr  at  the  Vernalls 
»t.  tn  i7_^o  thiii  charge  is  zos.  Dinners  and  liquors  for  this 
Lcotne  to  /a  q».  6d.  in  1752,  and  the  next  year  to  £2  los.  od. 
!.•■  (iinnrr  cost  £1  l«.,  and  the  wine,  punL'h,  and  ale  £2  2s. 
lie  Wrnalls  inf)uet>t  dinner  ritnrge  is  £,^  7s..  ijd.,  hut  this 
[bxMtd  3  guinea  said  to  be  allowed  to  the  jury. 

Thtrr  could  not  have  been  a  dinner  or  entertainment  on  each 
JBiioMl,  probably  some  years  (be  jurj'  was  frequently  summoned, 
vliflii  uher  yeani  went  by  witliout  any  summons.  From  the 
ftjobrityof  thew  dinner  entries,  we  can  only  cMicIude  that  there 
l*i*ao  annual  nomlnntioa  of  jurors  Id  serie  if  need  be  on  a  Vernalls 
[inqunt  during  that  year,  and  that  a  regular  perquisite  of  the  office 
|in>a  yearly  dinner  supplied  by  the  mayor  out  of  his  fund. 

It  teems  to  have  fallen    into   abeyance  before  the   end    of    last 
alary. 

Convictions  kor  Swearing. 
Hie  criminal    jurisdiction  in  the  hands  of  the  mayor  and  other 
justices  of    Nortliampton  wsa   ver)'  exlL-nsive,  a»  has  been 
3wn  in  the  previous  volume.     In  fact,  there  was  no  other  English 
au];h  thai  had  uider  powers  in  this  direction  than  Northampton, 
nly  some  five  or  six  that  equalled  it.     It  would  be  superfluous, 
;r,  to  offer  any  comment  on  Northampton  criminal  pnx:edure, 
Ukre  are  practically  no  records  left  that  deal  wilii  the  subject, 

one  partial  exception. 
At  the  end  of  the  minute  book  of  the  court  of  aldermen  (1694* 
tjjtf,   there  are   entries  of  convictions    by   the   mayor  or   other 
tiecs  lor  swearing,  from  1698  to  1708.     The  punishment  varied; 
which  differed  in  amount,  but  were  (jfinerally  a   shitting    for 
»th,  were  the  usual  penalty,  but   occasionally    the  offenders 
placed  in  the  stocks  for  two  hours,  usually  n-hen  they  were  not 
■inn  to  pay  the  fine  nr  to  be  distrained  upon  for  it.     Tlie 

-ii  convictioos  for  profane  swearing  during  this  period  were 

yielding  an  average  of  about  ten  a  year.    A  few  later  convictions 
tered  over  many  years  also  occur,  the    last    of    which  was    in 
Kl.     The  fines  were  giveu  to  the  poor   of   the    parish    to  which 
offender  belonged,  or  where  the  words  were  uttered 
The   following  are    some    specimens    of    the    records  of  these 


.38 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


convictions ;  it  will    be  noted  that  a    disUnction    is   mde 
cursing  ard  swearing:— 
April  the  a^th.  169S 
"Mem*  llai  then  SamiHl  WilMy  (o(  Sc  Gyiet  pxrith)  (at  iwcarinf    Br  Gdj' 
tjrniM  vrai  Convicted    betorc  m««  John  Clvko  mayor  of  Ngnh'ion  aad  wti   ia  ihcj 
■lockM  a  liaurei.  Having  noe  Diiir«ae  to  b*  takan. 
30th   Jnoe    169S 
Hem*  tluit   Edward   Wyta»n   (of  All  St«  pari»fa)  beng  c«Rvi<4«<J  bchcv  ine  |4b  j 
Clarke  Mayor  for  smtrin;  2  OiithM  By  God  and  2  Cvraec  Cod  damm  xm  f^f. 
30lh  November  1698 
Mem'  tbil  then  Joha  AspeUnd   wis  eotiviettd  before  me  Jeha   Hoare  Mawrrf 
Noclb'ion  for  Cuning  by  ibex  words  a  PU|;ue  danme   you  and  {>*  a*,  whlct  •■ 
dupoMd  of  (o  the  poore  of  the   p«Hih  o(  St  Scpulcber*  according  to  Ihe  Art 
October  igtb  1699 
HetDOrand.    Tbmi  Peeler  Barrel  Laborer  yna  cotivirtcd  before  mee  JohnOeW 
etw  of  hiH  nuiJMtt»'«  Jaitic««  for  y*  Peace   for   y*   Town   of   Nortb**  fer  pwta* 
awcarinji  3  wverall  limn,  and  for  profane  Cursing  5  severall  TImmi  for  vUdife 
forfecled  and  jhud  Ten  Skillinfs  to  y*  a»c  of  y*  poor  of  y*    t^rish    «f   AD  Saitf* 
which  was  disirlhuied  fay  y*  Churchwardens  acconling  l«  y*  Act  of  ParUanuat 
November  4ih.  17D1 
Uem*  that    then  Mr  William  MsnyM  was  convicCMl   b«fo<*  roc  WlltUn  fnlM 
Mayor  for  profane  Curvng  by  th^  wotdi  Cod  dam   yoo,  for   wliich   be  pitd  I* 
bnnc  for  a  a*  oAenec,  aad  p*  to  the  ChutcltvrardeM  of  All  St». 

On  November  37lh.  of  the  same  year  one  Samuel  Allistonvw 
convicted   of  swearing  seven    oalbs,   and    6ned   fourteen  sbillia^J 
whilst  on  the  fojlowinj'  day  William  White,  a  tailor,  was  cmmct(il'| 
of  swearing  twenty-three  oaths,  and  being  -^-ery  poor  wa&  set  is 
the  stocks. 

Dec  nth,  1703. 
Aaoe  Grace  als   Graceless   a   petite   Cbapwoman   of   Chiniwat^   traa   coarktt' 
before  me  B»n.  BnllivaiU  Mayor   lor  sweoiinx   20  oaths   in   y*  parish   ol   All  9tt 
North'ion,  biii  haveinc  mo  gooda  whercun  to  Levy   the   fwfolim   was   by   waoiN  ] 
publickly  tett  in  the  itodn  aceordiBg  to  the  statute. 
December  )-*  30th.  lyoa 
Jlemorand.     Francis  Granborow  aniler  at  CtlSoids  Mill   in   Lktle  Hoton  pedAj 
CamltBt      Nonh'lAn     was    convicted     More    ixe    B«*^m1a     Bullivsnl     Mitot    to' 
■we^tcinf  six  oaths  Sworn  «t  the  tfoaie  in  Nonb'lon  ob   Thursday  laai,  he   ro 
to  the  Saracens  head   Inne  every  Saturday,  could  no!  be  fovad. 
Jinejty  the  J9ih  1703-3 
Memorandum  WilUam  Rauda  of  y*  pariib  of  AO  Su  Sboucmahcr  waa  canvtcnAj 
before   me   Bea^nmin    nuIUvanl    Mayur    by   the   oath    of   Capl    Thomas   Cooka 
swoarelBf  iii  oaths  at  the  Aniccll  lone,  and  In  my  preacace  and  hearm^  1*  < 
of    ■•nrucig    t    0»thi    and    Curainjg    «kcc,    tioej    (onaerly    eonirlcted   lor    J* 
efleocds.  and  bound  over  10  y*  Smbmms  did  cnmiitr  felony   bf   firanif   the 
and  iMo  t«no«fld  le  tbe  Comity  Gaol  la  order  lu  hi*  tryall. 


CIVIC   JURISOICTtON. 


I» 


llut  on  ilw  tifib  d«v  el  Jul;,  tj3^.  Brifro*  Monimor  of   Handop  in  Uia 

•J  of    Buck*   gentleman   wis   convicted    bcfoic    the   Woip"   Samod    Plackctt 

Va*or  by  oatb  ol  Praaci*  AtlRibufv,  of  the  parish  of  All  Sainu  dyer,  of  praf«n*ljr 

ring  six  and  tatty  awlul  Oath*  by  Die  mcM  Nam*  at  God  on  ilie  third  A*y  ot 

ihM*nl  Juljr  in  th«  aM  p*risb  ol  All  Sainu  for  vriiich  oRcnccf  the  said  Briscoe 

Artimer  larftdtvd  the  «tim  of  (oui*  pound*  *nd  Twelve  «hi]lings.  (or  tht  use  of  iha 

til  (be  Kiid  p.ari.ib  of  All  Saints  whcic  the  uid  oITmioo  ir«i«  niininitlcd. 

One  of  the  Northampton  convictions   was  (or  sayiiig  "  Plague 
'im "     U  might    non-adays   seem    ratht-r   straining    a    point   to 
ider  such   an    expression   as  a   statutable  offence :    but    when 
tered    in    tlic    hearing    of    those    who    had    actually  knou-n   the 
lenors  of  ibe  plague,  such  an  imprecation  was  sufficiently  awful. 

Constables,  Thiroborouchs,  and  Dozeners. 

It  b  stated  in  the  orders  of  assembly  for  1581,  and  o^in  for 
iSftl.  that  at  the  Michaelmas  meeting  the  constables  and  ihird- 
Wwigbs  for  all  the  quarters  were  elected  (by  the  whole  assembly], 
*»i  duly  recorded  in  the  "  booke  of  processes." 

I«  1584  we  have  the  names  of  all  these  peace  officers  recorded 
ID  full  as  selected   by    the   assembly,   namely,  00c   constable  and 
'•flthirdboroughs  for  each  ward: — 
CmaUt  of  the  zebekef  ... 


Lawraiince  B;<ll 

Jehn  MeynariJe 

John  Watle* 

Rklijrd  Btytton 

,.,  Robert   Diikcsan 

f  Henry  Morion 

■• iWiliam  Spotwman 

(■  Henry  Smyth 

'"  ijohn  Com 

(Edward  Smyrh 

tGeorjfc  Smyih 

(Anchanic  Banes 
t.  Roger  Addflitij 
f  Henry  Godly 
(Edw*rd«    I.ichefeyld 

'n  15&5  the  whole  names  are  awain  entered  on  the  orders ;  the 
^^tiblei  and  ihirdbnrotighs  being  rc-appointcd,  save  in  the  case 
of  Uic  tonsubic  for  the  south  ward. 

TW  nuncs  of  the  constables  arc  not  again  mentiooed  until 
'SQS.  "tlicn  they  arc  given  for  each  ward,  together  with  a  note 
«>M  l^ic  njines  and  appointments  of  the  third  boroughs  are  entered 
"*  "thtbokc  of  the  entries   of   processes."     About    this  time   the 


t^M^  of  ibe  Soath« 

Cusihit  U  tbaMa 

***«rfile  of  (he  Wesie 
^omM,  (rf  the  NortUe    ... 

^'''^w-ww  of  Ihe  xcheke( 
"^fcccorea  <d  llieste      ... 
'^^wnM*  of  Ihc  vote 
^*"tt«W>tt  of  lb*  North* 
"^^•^tro^M  for  y  Sovnb 


140 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


thirdboroughs    are    sometimes    called    headborougha     witicli 
evidently  considered  an  equivalent  lerm. 

In  the  year  1600  ihe  mayor  and  aldermen,  without  any  Af 
justification,  look  upon  themselves  the  annual  appointment 
constables,  wlio  had  hitherto  been  elecied  by  ihe  whole  ix 
There    is    nothing    In    the   charter   of  1399.  to  tvarrant  thU 
ference,  but  having  once  made  tlie  innovation,  tlie  habit 
have  been  uninterrupted ty  continued. 

The  names  of  constables  are  usually  given  about  ihU  period  atj 
October  meeting  of  the  assembly,  but    in    ifii8    ilw    thirdfc 
names  were  once  again  included  in  the  ordent,  as  well  as 
for  the  extensions  of  tlie  borough  south  and  wci^t : — 

RoKcr  SccEMiil.  Coiuuble  ot  the  Checker  Wwxl,  WlllUm    tjeacb  imI  VIlMi| 

Htitwurtli  Thitdlxiruiwc*  <A  ihv  tuido  ward- 

Jotin  Fiihcr.  Coniilable  of  Ihe  East  ward.     .     .     .    Lynn  divd  Chrliiapbrr  DmH  ' 
Thinlboronm  ot  the  uidc  ward. 

John  NIreollf,  Constable  of  the  South    mrd.  Hurm   IliU   »oA   Rabtn  Sbrpa  ] 
T]i>rdborow«t. 

Richard  Fowltr,  CoBiuUe  of  the  North  w^rd.  Sjrtnon  Harriiua  and  }^n  ll«M  | 
ThlrdboroBres  of  Ihe  **  Ward. 

Thonuu  Collens,  Conitabic  of  ibc    wcm    ward,  Gtotgf    Fanhingc  toA  TkoOT 
Boswetl  Third borov'a  of  tlw  Mid  wsnL 

Wlllam  CoTdwell  ConUiM*  ol  ib«  Cuiion    End,  SlcphM    Mimntf  unna  m' 
Tliomas  Mallocie  Thirdboiowo  uf  the  saide  w<rtl. 

Thoma*  Crane,  ComtaU*  of  St.  Jninc»  End. 

The  appointment  of  constables  for  Cotton  Fnd  and   Si.  }aiiK5' 
End  only  appear!^  once  again,  namely,  in  ibe  fotlowin);  year,  i6«}- 

In  1633  some  of  the  wards  arc  said  to  have  thirdborou^ht,  wi 
others  headboroughs,  fully  establishing  the  similarity  of  the  tentj 
From  this  date  down  to  1663  the  two  thirdboroughs  and  Ihe 
const-able  for  each  of  the  old  live  \vard«  are  named  at  every  C>ei 
meeting  of  the  assembly,  as  elected  by  the  maj-or  and  aldcrtaeft.l 
but  in  |C^4  there  is  no  mention  made  of  the  thirdborouf;hs,  uii\ 
henceforth  they  drop  out  of  the  orders  of  assembly.  The  fiitj 
cofutabtes  continued  to  be  appointed  by  the  mayor  and  alderacAi 
down  to  1831. 

One  of  the  almost  invariable  uses  to  which  the  ward  constat 
were  put   was  thai  of  collecting  any  special  assc^^siiicnt    in   tl 
own  quarter.    Tlie  Ihitdboroughs  were  subordinate  trfEriais  of 
cenatabtc,  and  had  to  act  in  certain   emergencies,  whenrvcr  cat 
up<in  by  the  i-oimtable. 


CIVIC   JUKISDICTION. 


H' 


printed  autboriti«s  that  make  any  reference  to  "  third- 

;h,''  speak  of  it  as  an  equivalent  term  to  a  constable,  and 

not  aware  oi  :iny  proper  explanation  uf   the    term   and  its 

Lamberd's  old  work  on  lli*;  Duty  of  Constables  offers  this 

ifallv  simple  hut  absolutely  erroneous  explanation  ;— "  In  some 

where    every    third    borrow    hath    a   constable,   there  the 

of    the    other    two    be    called    thirdborrows."      Tlie     use, 

it,  of  this  term  among  the    Northampton    records,  as    well 

various  Derbyshire  and   StafTordshire  papers    that  u'e  have 

J,  qiiiie  upst'Is  this  theory.     The  word  is  really  a  corniption 

I'J^lo-Saxon   mmmimily   afficiat,  and  has  no  connertinn  with 

It  is  associated  with  the  old  system  of  mutual  pledging 

as  frith-f>9rh  or  frank-pledge.     The  compound  word  derived 

fntk   place,  and   borh    bail    or   pledj^e  (used  to  denote   the 

an  q[  the  little  community  bound  to  see  that  Ihe  rest  kept 

c)>  ^"^^  gradually  corrupted  in  both  of  its  componLrnl  parts, 

il  was  changed  into  an  utterly  dissimilar  word— thirdlxirough 

^Tfc  joini  use,  for    so  long    a    period,  of    officials    so    absolutely 

11  in  their  origin  and  form  of  election  as  tlie  Anglo-Norman 

l*t  ofiii'cr,    the    fonsiable.    and    the     Anglo-Saxon    community 

oOkiAi,  the  thirdborough  is  a  matter  of   peculiar  interest   in    con> 

Hction  with  the  history  of  Northampton.     It  forms  one  of  several 

Wiraiions  of    the   rise   of  town   or  municipal    life  from  the  older 

^c  of   the    village  community,  and   of    the    gradual    blending  of 

|Ae  tiro. 

iNoticc  may  also  be  here  briefly  taken  of  another  still  more 
ionai  name  of  an  official,  which  occurs  in  the  Northampton 
iDftr)-,  and  which  again  takes  us  back  to  the  earlier  community 
lyf.  On  page  397  of  the  first  \'olumc,  is  given  the  fifteenth 
EAtury  form  of  the  oath  of  the  constable  of  Northampton,  from 
hich  il  may  be  gathered  that  the  more  prominent  of  his  then 
lie*.  wtiPt  super%-ising  of  the  watch ;  attention  to  any  unuHual 
Kind,  affray,  or  outcry;  and  the  examination,  and,  if  necessary, 
rtt  of  any  stranger  entering  his  ward  by  night,  But  on  page 
[  is  the  oath  of  the  deciner,  or  (a:*  it  was  more  usually  vulgarised) 
mer.  It  will  b«  noticed  that  the  deeinarius  was  required  to 
prta«iit"  all  manner  of  disturbances  against  the  peace,  etc.,  a 
not  used  witii  regard  to  the  constable.  This  term  at  once 
WnccU  Uie  word  with  the  courl-leet,  where  presentment  was 
idc-,  ia  lact  the  oalh  speaks  of  presenting  "in    tyme  of  leetis." 


142 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


A  law  of  F-dward  tKc   Confessor,  based  on   an    older   enactmrnl 
of  Canute!,  ordered  thr  combination  of  houitetiolders  in  associattoni 
of  ten.      Each  of  these  associations    had    a  headman,    a    capital* 
pledge,  a  frith-borh,   or   thirdborough,   and  oriftinally  ovei  ten  o( 
these  associations   was  a  dccinarius  or  dozener,     But  by  dcsrccs 
the  term  got  changed,  and  in  many  districts  quite  died  out,  as  other 
methods  of  procedure  were  adopted.     It  is  interesting,  and  a  furthcx^ 
strong  proof  of  the  early  pre-Norman  community    life   of    Nortli." 
amptnn,  to  6nd  the  office  as  well  as  the  name  a  reality  not  only 
in  the   Bftccnth  century,  but  in  Elizabethan  days,  lor  the  oath  of 
the  dozener  is  in    a   laic  sixlectitli   century    hand   (only    slightly 
altered  from   the  one   in   the   first    volume)  in  the    Batcman  copy 
of  the  customary.     There  is  no  reference  whatever  to  the  dozcncr 
in  the  orders  of  assembly;   and  this   is  only  natural,  for  such  an 
official   would  not  be  appointed  by  the  assembly,  or   mayor  and 
aldermen,  but  by  all  those  attending  the  court-Ieet.     The  reason, 
no  doubt,  why  the  dozener's  oath  found  its  way  into  the  customary 
of  the   town  or  assembly    procedure,    m-ould    be    because    several 
of  the  otBclals  of  the  one  court  were  officials  of  the  other,  and 
the  mayor  himself,  if  he  pleased,   could  preside    at    the  Icet.    It'fl 
is  highly  curious  to  find    this    conflict    of    jurisdiction    surviving" 
in   this  decided   way  at   Northampton  at  so  comparatively  late  a 
dsite;  the  duties  of  constable,  thirdborougli,  and  dozencr  must  have 
often  overlapped. 

The  municipal  use  of  the  term  dozener,  as  applied  to  tninor 
corporation  officials  such  as  pinders,  pre\'ailed  in  three  adjacent 
towns  of  the  north-midlands  down  to  1835,  namely,  Derby, 
Burton -on-T rent,  and  Lichfield. 


The  Town  Seals. 

The  corporate  towns  of  England,  from  Iheir  earliest  daj's,  have 
had  a  prescriptive  right  to  the  use  of  a  common  seal.  This  seal 
they  may  break  or  change  at  pleasure,  provided  the  corporation 
make  an  order  to  that  effect. 

The  following  are  the  different  official  seals  pertaining  to  the 
town  of  Northampton.  The  actual  se.iU  or  matrices  arc  lost,  save 
of  those  numbered  VI.,  VH.,  and  VIIl. ;  they  are  only  known  from 
imprefisiuos  : — 

I.  The  common  seal  of  the  town  ^Pl.^te  III.,  Fig.  i).  This  is 
a  circular  seal,  with  well  beaded  Ixirders,  i^  inch  in  diameter,  and 
bears  an  embattled  tower   or  gateway  of   rude  and  peculiar  con* 


I 

I 

I 
I 


CIVIC   JtTllSOICnON. 


>43 


The  greM  doo«,  with    their  double  hinges,  are  closed. 

tanleswBts  tad  pnijcctiOBS  an  char];e(i  wilii  fourteen  irrrgular 

(oils-     Above  ihc  centre  ot  the  battI«Beot<  appears  a  ko^hl's 

wearing  a  flat<tnpped  helmet.     Oo  bis  right  is  a  flag,  which 

sly    in   the   pcriect   seal    bore  the    lions  of    England,  and  on 

left   a   cro9s  bow :   these  are   ondoabtedly  intended    to  be   in 

buKb  of  the  knight,  thoogh  his  arms  and  hands  are  not  visible. 

legend  round  the  seal,  in  Lombardic  capiiali,  it 

^ICttLVH  .  COMMUNE  :  NORHAMPTONR  : 

Tliia  Seal  i<>  ot  early  thirteenth  centur)-  dale,  and  was  probably 

at  the  time  ot  the  izjj  charter, 

II.     The  seal  of  the  ma>-or  (Plate  III.,  fig.  i).    Tlii»  is  a  circular 

I.  li  inch  in  diatncter,  and  bears  a  triple-towcrcd  rastic  or  gate- 

Lv    dI    well-defined   masonry,  with   open   portals.      On    each  side 

the  castle  is  a  rampant  lion   gardant.      The  t>ackground  of  the 

it   part  of  the  seal  h   diapered   with   ncl   work.      Round    the 

>;n,  between  clearly-marked  beadingK,  is  the  legend,  in  mixed 

ibardLc  capitals, 

S'  MAIORITATIS   VILLE   NORHAMTONIG. 
The  date  of  this  seal  is  later  than    the   first  common  seal,  and 

ibly  pertains  to  the  reign  of  Edward  1. 
it  is  quite  possible  that  the  "towers"  or  "castles"  on  tbe« 
seals  were  iotended  for  more  or  less  actual  representations  of 
principal  town  gate;  the  one  being  before  the  renewal  and 
fclension  of  the  walls  and  g3tew.iys  eirca  tjoo,  nnd  the  other 
imcdiately  suhae<iuent  to  lllat  date. 
The  introduction  of  the  lions  on  the  mayor's  seal  waa  probably 
;c*ted  by  the  fact  of  Northampton  not  only  being  a  chartered 
»WD  of  the  royal  demesne,  but  peculiarly  aAsociated  with  an  almost 
>Dtinuous  succession  of  royal  visitors.  This  seal  is  of  much 
fttercft,  as  undoabtedly  being  the  origin  uf  the  subsequent  town 
The  gateway  and  lions  of  the  *«al  were  afierwarrU  placed 
oo  a  shield,  and  having  tinctures  assigned  them  liecame  by  long 
use  the  Uvtful  arms  of  the  borough. 

These  two  seals- the  common  or  community  seal,  and  the  <eal 
o(  the  Okayoralty— were  both  in  use  until  the  time  of  Charles  II. 
the  town  records,  an  impreuion  of  the  former  is  attached 
at  attorney  trom  the  corporation  of  1623,  whilst  several 
■pr«Mioiu  of  the  early  mayoralty  seal  are  extant  appended  to 
ilacaineots  temfi.  CKarles  I. 


144 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


III.  The  stalute    merchant  seal   (Plate  III,,  (ig.  jj.     i  i;:_'  iim 
is  a  circular  seal,    i|  inch  in  diameter,  and  bears  the  Icing'* 
between  two  triple-towered  castles,  witli  live  lion  of  England  in 
The  tollowing  is  the  legend,  which  is  in  Lombardic  capitaK 

S*  REGIS  EDWARDI    AD    RF.COCN'   DEBrTORUM. 

As  compared   witli    the    few  other  cxlaat   itutances  of  itabtfe 
merchant  seals,  the  Norlhampton  example  possesses  some  pcculiiti. 
ties,  which  arc  iwrticed  by    Mr.    St.    John    Hope  in   a  good  f*pet 
on  these  seals  in  vol  xv.  of  the  second  series  of  Ihe  Proccetitr-  -•  '■:- 
Sacie/y  of  Antiquaries.    The  legend  omiU  the  name  of  -1 
and  the  arrangement  of  the  urards  is  unusual.    The  lion  in  liuc 
of  a  type  peculiar  to  ilscU,  with    prominent    cars,  whilst   the 
castles  arc  broad  and  Hat,  with   three   slim   turrets.      At 
date  Northampton  first  became  entitled  to  such  a  seal,  there  Msa* 
no  doubt  that  this  is  of  the  year  1,119. 

The  Close  Rolls  contain  a  memorandum  dated  May  2jrd,  IjIQy 
to  Ibe  effect  that  the  greater  piece  of  the  seal  for  takiut;  notf^' 
nisanccs  at  Nortliampton  according  to  the  statute  of  mcrchiBU— 
sent  with  the  smaller  piece  by  the  treasurer  and  chamtiritiiR^ 
under  the  exchequer  seal  to  the  Bishop  of  Ely,  the  cliarirdlfif— «»* 
delivered  on  May  atst  by  him  to  PhiUp  dc  Caysho,  marw  tA 
Northampton,  elected  by  the  community  of  that  town  to  hart  Ulf 
custody  uf  the  aforesaid  seal,  according  to  the  form  of  the  stJtuK' 
On  the  same  day,  the  smaller  piece  ol  the  seal  was  dchvcr«l  I* 
William  de  Bur^o,  clerk  of  the  same  town,  with  a  Cf>mmi»!i:>n  W 
the  Patent  Roll.  Impressions  of  these  srals  were  plai"ed  in  2  tNa 
before  transmission, 

IV.  A  seal  of  the  statute  merchant's  cletk,  of  fifteenth  crnta^ 
date.  It  is  circular,  just  an  inch  in  diameter,  and  bears  a  figure  fli 
St.  Andrew,  on  his  cru<i!t,  with  four  fleur-de-lis  on  each  »idc,  vbA 
a  sprig  in  base  (Plate  111.,  fig.  4).  The  legend,  10  small  bbd 
letter,  is 

j(  :  cfict  :  ^  :  %ioi  :  mcaf  :  nor^fon. 

The  reason  for  St.  Andrew's  appearance  on  this  small  counter 
seal  is  doubtlei^  because  of  the  intimate  connection  of  the  Cluni 
priory  of  St.  Andrew  with  Oie  town,  tliat  monastery  ownin^f  erer 
church  in  the  town. 

V.  Amongst  the  collection  of  seal  cast*  of  the   Nvrthamfite 
skin  ArchittdHrat  Society  is  one  of  another  aoiall  rircolar  wa 


CIVIC  JURISDICTION. 


MS 


iiidi  in  diameter  <P1ate  Ul.,  fig.  5.)      It  bears  in  the  centre  a 
;*«  hedd,  anj  round  the  wide  margin,  in    large    irregular  Lom- 
lettcring,   U  the  legend  : — 

5 : PANOKVM  :  NORHAMTON  : 
Tbti  19  on  unusuai  and  most  interesting  seal-  The  legend 
plit5  that  it  is  "  the  seal  of  the  cloths  of  Northampton."  At 
iihe  bni  parliament  of  Kdward  I.,  held  tn  1275.  certain  duties  on 
[opwls  from  England  and  Wales  were  granted  to  the  king,  under 
rtfaetamc  of  "customs,"  that  is  in  accordance  with  ancient  custom 
[vBfr,  on  wool,  ffool  fells,  and  leather,  wool  paying  69.  &d.  the 
ndk.  In  1302  the  king  plended  for  additional  funds,  owing  to 
iki)  heavy  war  expenses,  and  the  foreign  merchants  in  England 
\lpai  to  certain  new  or  smalt  customs,  by  wliich  another  3:^.  ^d. 
Irw  paid  on  the  sack  of  wool,  25.  the  piece  on  scarlet  and  dyed 
gntn  cloth,  is  6d  on  partly  died  in  grain,  and  is.  the  piece 
|«i  other  clulh.  This  seal  would  be  the  stamp  for  the  North- 
juoptAD  cloth  prepared  for  cxporlalion,  as  a  token  that  the  custom 
lot  duly  had  been  paid.  The  head  on  the  seal  is  obvioustf  that  of 
|E<»irJ  L  There  arc  only  one  or  two  other  known  examples  of 
cJoth  subsidy-  seals. 

VI.  The  common  seal  of  1667-8.  This  is  an  oval  seal,  r  A  inch 
(,  with  a  circular  triplc'towcrcd  castle  in  the  centre,  flanked 
two  rampant  lions.    The  tcf^nd  is : — 

NOft  IHAMl'lONl,* .  A"  .  ig .  CABOU  .  2  .  R  .  ANGLl/E 

VII.  The  common  seal  of    [796.    This   is  also  oval,    ij    inch 
S.  and  bears  on  a  shield  the  town  arms  of  a  castle  and  two 

The  legend  is : — 
NORTIIAMEn'ON  CHARTSR  RBMBWBD  XXXVI.  GEO.  111. 
In  this  year  the  corjMiration   spent  six    guineas   on    two   new 
tb,  and  lOii.  6d.  on  boxes  for  the  same. 

VIII,     The  present  common  seal,  which    was    made    in    1879, 
circular,    zi   inches    in    diameter,   and    bears  on  a  shield  Ihe 
rough  aiws,  with  the  legend : — 

CASTtLLO  FORTIOR    CONCORDIA. 
Tlie  chamberlain's  accounLs  state  that  in  1692  Mr.  Barnes  was 
id  "js.  for  mending  the  seales  " ;  and  in   1714,  a  further  sum  of 
I6d.  "for  new  cutting  the  Proces  Scale" 

Arms  ov  ihe  Town  op  Nokthampton. 
"  Gutea,    on    a  mount  vert,    a  triple-lowered   castle  (or  tower) 
itf    ftupported    by    two    Ikms    rampant    gardant,    or,    in    the 


t4lS 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


portway  of  the  castle,  a  portcullis  raised."     Motto — Castelh  fffrti^r 
concortiia — concord  is  stronger  than  a  castle. 
No  crest  used. 

The  device  of  the  castle  supported  by  two  lions,  has  b<*n 
used  by  the  town  from  verj-  early  times.  The  mayor's  seal 
(Plate  IN.,  fig.  2>  is  obviously,  as  has  been  remarked,  the  origin  of 
the  borough  arms.  The  tower  or  castle  probably  represents  one 
of  the  town  gates;  the  two  ]ion<i  no  doubt,  were  adopted  from 
those  on  the  shield  of  the  king,  to  indicate  that  Northampton  was 
a  rojral  borough. 

Tills  badge  or  device  was  not  originally  borne  on  a  shield, 
and  therefore  could  not  be  called  "Arms,"  properly  speaking; 
but  in  course  of  time,  when  it  became  general  (or  towns  to 
bear  arms,  it  was  placed  on  a  shield,  the  field  of  which  n-as 
red,  the  cattle  silver,  and  tlie  liotis  guld. 

The  mount  vert  was  a  later  addition,  as  was  also  the  portcullis 
in  the  portway. 

The  earliest  representations  of  the  town  shield  are  in  a  sketch 
book  by  William  IVkher,  of  Guilsboroiigh  (at  the  Bodleian 
Library,  Oxford),  who  made  drawings  of  the  heraldic  glass  tn 
the  winrlows  of  All  Saints'  church,  Northampton.  Belcher  died 
in  160S-9,  but  the  windows  were  verj'  much  cirlier  than  his  limr. 
There  are  three  drawings  of  the  Northampton  coat  amongst  tte 
All  Saints'  collection.  The  first  is  without  the  mount,  the  castle 
not  being  triple- towered.  This  same  coat  was  also  set  up  in  glass 
in  the  church  of  St.  Neots.  Hunts.,  and  was  sketched  on  the  19th 
August,  1613,  by  Nicholas  Charles,  Lancaster  her.ild,  when  he  took 
the  visitation  (a*  deputy  to  Camden)  of  that  county. 

The  second  shield  is  similar  to  the  first,  excepting  that  the 
castle  is  surmounted  by  three  small  turrets,  the  two  outer  oae> 
leaning  outwards,  an  obviously  impossible  construction. 

In  the  third  shield  the  castle  and  lions  are  placed  upon  a 
mount,  the  castle  is  iriple-towered  pyramidically.  This  is  probably 
of  later  date  than  the  other  two.  In  none  of  these  shields  U  the 
portcullis  represented. 

In  the  visitation  of   1564.    no  notice   is  taken   of  the  ant  of' 
Northampton.    In  the  visitation  of  1618-9,  "^  shield  of  arms  borne 
and   used  by  the  town    of    Northampton"    is  mentioned,   but  no 
blazon  given.     "  A  badge  of  the  same  arms,  used  by  the  Common 


CIVIC  JURISDICTION. 


M7 


cxton  of  All  Saints,    and  the  Town    W.iit-players  of 
Town  ontv,"    u    menlioiied  likewise.      (For    this    badge    sec 

"-) 
At  the   last  visitation.  i6Si,  is  recorded  "  (he  arms   bome  md 
by  the  Town  of  Xonhampton,  within  a  shield  gules,  a  tower 
It^ik-towcrci].    pyrdfiiicJally    argent,    and    with     portcullis    raised, 
[jofponrd  by  two  lions,  gardant  or,  all  on  a  mount."    No  tincture 
Btea    for   the    mount,    but   no   doubt    the    fact    of    lis   being  a 
It "  was  sufficient  to  indicate   its  colour. 
the  ilJiiminated  charter  from  Junes  I.  to  the  town,   t6i8 
^srvcraJ   carefully  drawn  and  coloured  shields  of  Northampton. 
castle  is  represented  zs  a  round    tower,  without  a  portcullis, 
jlBmounted  by  one  turret  only.     It  <<bould  be  noticed  that  .in  these 
|AieMi    the  lions  are  armed   and   langued  azure,    as  they  should 
yi  be. 

early  form  of  the  castle,    as    shown    on    the  seal   oC  the 
'{Plate  [II.,  fig.  3MS  the  most  picturesque  and  correct  of  any. 
fn  is  iHii  known  when  the  motto  was  first  used. 

ArtcDtion  is  drawn  to  the  fact  that  in  Sir  Bernard  BurkcS 
fCeurai  Armoty,  the  castle  b  erroneously  given  as  "or,"  which 
[Ui  cau»cd  this  mistake  in  several  drawings  of  the  coat. 

Northampton  Hckalu. 

Xorlhampton   was  the  title  of  one  of  the  heralds  of  the  crown 

the  reigns  of  Edward   III.  and  Richard  II.      In  the  forty-sixth 

of  Edward  III.  ^372-3),  Rirhard,  son  of  William  Macheby, 

Brewood,  Nortliampton  herald,  had  a  protection  lor  going  in  the 

l'%  8er*'ice  into  France,  with   John   of  Gaunt,    king   of   Castile, 

in  a  pri*y  seal   of    the  fifth    year  of    Richard    II.    (1381-3], 

Pe  king  calls  him  one  of  his  heralds,  and  directs  that  a  grant  to 
m  0/  tlw  priory  alien  of  Wyngliale  for  fifty  years  should  be 
made  out,  as  a  reward  for  ht»  good  services  to  the  king's  grand- 
father,  Edward    111.,  and   to  himself. 

rThe  same  herald  is  also  mentioned   in   the   seventh   and   tenth 
js  of  Richard  II.' 
Judges  of  Assize. 
Tiicrr  atr  a    k-«  ^caltc^ed  entries  in  the  town  records  relative 
|4o  the  judges  of  assize  which  may  appropriately  be  placed  in  this 
in- 


KiteHnl*M'«  CmtlMf  Mitj  il  Hnttttty  (ifto).  vol-  I.  p.  114. 


L   2 


148 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS 


An  order  of  assembly  of  t)ie  year  1596  provided    that    t: 
keepers    were  lo    have   yearly   paid  lo  the-m  out  o(    the    .1 
40s.,  towards  "  the  good  lodging  and  interteyning  of  the  judges  «F 
assize  their  men,"  namely  20s.  at  every  assise  and  no  more. 

1l  was  agreed  in  1640  that  the  cliambcrlains  shall  be»Um  00 
more  llian  40s.  at  any  assize  in  providing  iKe  judges  a  prcsmt 

Tlie  assizes  used  always  to  be  beld  at  the  castle  of  Noiib> 
amptOD.  After  the  restoration,  when  Charles  11  ordered  the  uwr 
walls  of  Northampton  to  be  (lcinoli»hed  in  1662.  the  ca»tJe 
under  a  like  sentence  of  destruction,  save  so  much  of  it  as 
necessary  for  use  by  the  judges  whe»  holding  the  assizes. 

In  i66g  that  part  of  tlie  ca^lle  which  had  been  spared  (or  tlol 
purpose  became  ruinous,  and  the  corporation,  being  anxious  t]tlC 
the  future  county  hall  or  shire  house  should  be  in  the  tomr, 
promised  to  subscribe  j^ioo  towards  the  erection  of  such  a  bnildafr 
OD  that  condition. 

On  January  iQlh,  1670,  it  was  ordered  ''  that  a  shcad  be  butU 
of  Bord  and  Timber  at  the  Chamber  Charge  for  the  judges  lo  sittia 
next  Assizes,  and  to  be  built  in  some  convenient  place  within  the 
body  of  the  Towne  for  that  purpose." 

The  assembly,  in  April,  1672,  ordered  a  cess  of  £100  to  Ir 
on  the  inhabitants  "for  the  building  of  an    Assiie   and    ^^.:, — : 
house,    and    tliat    such    Ground    be    allowed    and    graoted   to  tltf 
Gentry  of   the    County   of   Northampton    for  the  building  of  tht 
same  as  thr  Townc  have  of  their  owne." 

The  shed  or  temporary  tiniber  house  mentioned  above  waspirt 
up  in  the  market  square  close  to  the  market  cross.  Owing  to  dela/ 
in  finding  the  money  and  a  suitable  site,  the  county  authorities 
were  conicnt  to  use  the  shed  until  it  was  burnt  down  in  the  great 
fire  ol  1675. 

The  town  was  in  the  habit  of  providing  wine  for  the  judges^ 
The  following  are  ^omc  of  the  entries  relative  to  this  custom. 
taken  frotti  the  chamberlain's  accounu: — 

1679  U  GcoTEB  lor  13  bottle*  of  CUrtctt  uul  whitewync  and  Ibc  boitJcs  o  15  C 
P*  Fluhufh  for  7  boiUe*  of  SAck  and  ibe  boula  tor  tbe  J<m1c»  a  f6  4 

1680  P*  «  Cetxgt  for  Wjme  lot  tbc  Jodfts  ani)  jre  liolllea  1   19  4 
P*  at  Swao  for  Wync  and  BiMllw  for  tbo  Judc«        ...  *   t7  J 

1693  P*  Mr.  Brafield  lor  Wyne  for  iwo  AMiieg 3  tf    4 

IO96  P*  for  la  bolltes  of  Clarnu  and  6  gJ  Sack  (o'  *)'"  '>i<l?«>       ...  1   lA    • 

1698  P*  Ale  at  haU  tba  Judges  commit        .„  .„         ». 


CIVIC    JURISDICTION.  149 

£.    s.  d. 
(703  MkTcb  8*^  P*  for  14  bottles  of  Clarrett  aod  7  sack  to  the  Judges  at 

the  Assizes ...         ...         ...         ...         ...         ...  i  t6    6 

Somer  Ass.  p'  for  wjoe  for  the  Judges   from    Mr.    Brayfields  and 

Hynde 3    4    3 

The    following  entries  seem   to   show  that  the  town   Serjeants 
were  on  duty  at  the  Assizes: — 

X708  P*  y*  2*  Assizes  a*  for  Ale  George  Serjeants  and  a*  y*  baylys. 
1709  P*  for  Ale  far  the  Serjeants  2*  Assize  2" 
1740  P*  the  Serjeants  at  the  Lent  Assize  for  beer  4* 


section  four. 

Town   Property, 
Buildings,    and    Revenues. 

TmI    noFIRTY     OF    THE     TOWN     IN     1586— GRADUAL     LOSS     OF     PROPBItT¥ — LoNO 

viASBs  AND  FINES— Possessions  of  the  Gobion    familv — Purchasb   of    Gobion 

HANO  BY  THE  TOWN    IN    163a — InCLOSURE   ACT  OF   1799— The   FIRST  TOWN   HALL — 

Tbe  second  TOWN  HALL,  TEMP.  Edwako  I,— Enlarged  in  Henry  VII.  reign — 
Again  enlarged  in  1631 — The  town  gaols — Houses  of  correction  or 
BRIDEWELLS— Out  relief  for  the  poor — Beoging  Badges — Relief  of  the 
UNKEPLOYED — Spinning  wheels — Relief  in  winter — St.  George's  hall — 
MAWtrrs  and  fairs— "Market  tolls — The  market  cross— Weights  and 
KiAsuREs- Tumbrel,  pillorv,  and  stocks — Traverse  tolls — ^The   great   toll 

«SE— Tut   FEE    FARM. 


TOWN    PROPERTY. 


153 


)WN  PROPERTY,  BUILDINGS,  and  REVENUES. 


*HE  real  property  of  the  town  of  Northampton  was  at  one  time 
of    considerable  extent  and   value,    irrespective  of  builiiings 
(or    town   purposes,  of    extensive   ri|[hls    in    common   fields, 
of    income  derived  from  tolls  and  such  like  sources. 
One   of  the  most  inlert-sting  of  xlw  older  volumes  pertaining  to 
corporation  is  an  elaborate    Elizabethan    terrier  or   8ur\'ejr    of 
the      property     belonging     to    the     tomi     both     within     and 
toot    the    walls.      From    it    we    can    gather    much    as    to    the 
:&raoce    of   the   town    three  centuries  ago,  with    its  numerous 
IS  and  abundarwe  of  fruit  and  other  trees. 
The  following  is  the  full  title  :— 

A  tram  Tairasr  and  Stirucigbe  at  all  the  tandtt.  Tentmtrttt,  ani  Hetcdliamenu 
tver  m»  doe  belonce  lu  the  Cbjoibct  at  ibc  towne  of  Nuithunpion  as  w«II 
rlngo   wHthin  Xitc  tv^mc  unJt   Poitik  of  Ni>rthitRi|)lon  m  ia  lh«  e^uMny  Survftigb«d 
tatten  by  Rlrh-ifile  Watt««  ikoldor.  John  Daitbrokr.  Robert  Riuide*.  Lawniutvre 
Robert  Duhei,  and  Tbomat   SaAbror.ke.  the    Tentli    dajr   of    December  Aiuio 
ID    ib«    nypite  and   T*ent<:lthe   year  of    th«    relgtie    of    of    motte    gracious 
*i|^  bdie  Elij^bcUie  by  ihc  gricc  of  jrod  of  Englandc    Fraunce  and    Iiclaodc 
■m  drf^odT  of  Uw  Uiilic  &c. 

a«  partial  Inly  followeih. 
Jnhn  Bicbcntoe  tkcn  beinj^  raajor,  John  Wlllsoa  and  Robart  Slorie  Daylyflcs. 

The  contents  of  the  volume  are  divided  into  ten  principal  heads, 
;lv  the  lands  in  the  five  wards  of  the  town— north,  west,  east, 
jer,  and  sotitli — land's  at  Milton,  Heylord,  Pitsford,  and  Cotton, 
•ad    the    free    school    meadows.    Two<thirds  of   the  book  is  left 
ik-    The  exigencies  of  space  prohibit  a  complete  transcript,  but 
full  sammar}'  is  given  :— 
["Zjfwrfrfj  iH  the  Nerike  Quarter  "  include  :— 

(I.)  A  little  garden  oji  the  south  side  of  "  Saynte  Pulchrc's 
JurchcyanJc,"  tenant  Richard  Watts,  rental  12*. 
(2.)  A  thatched  house  of  three  bay^,  with  a  little  decayed 
[house  adjoining,  with  an  orchard  of  one  rood  containing  four  apple 
ttrecs.  a  walnut  tree,  a  pear  trrr,  two  plum  trees,  lour  ash  trees, 
land  (wii  f-ltn  trees;  tenant  Thomas  Mordcn,  rent  y. 


KORTHAMin~0N    BOHOL'CH    RECORDS. 


(3.)  A  thatched  house  of  two  bays,  zai  a  gardca  of  oac 
containing  three  apple  trees,  one  ash  tree,  and  twcntir  pluxn! 
tenant  John  Howe,  rental  5*. 

(4.)    A  house  oi  two  bays,  with  a  garden  of  one  rood  cont 
three  apple  trees,  six  plum  trees,  six  cherr)'  trees,  three  elmi,] 
one  ash  tree;  tenant  Kliiabcth  Shepherd,  rental  4». 

(5.)     The   north  gate,   with    a    garden   and   teyntor  adioion 
tenant  Rowland  Pattison,  rental  B*. 

(b.)     A   close   of    ij    acres   called    Gyles   Gutter;    tenant  Jo 
Balguy,  rental   10^. 

(7.)     A  dose  cf  5  roods  having  an  ash  tree  m  a,  called 
Close ;  held  by  Thomas  Ludlow  in  exchange  of  St,  George's  I« 

(8.)  Dovehouse  Close  of  1  acre,  with  a  dovehouse  in  it, 
an  elm  tree;  tenant  Henry  Bayly,  rental  8». 

(9.)     A  little  orchard  containing  nine  apple  trees,  3  plun 
a  quince  tree,  and  a  walnut  tree;  tenant  Hetiry  Wharlow, 

(to.)     A  house  of   four  bays   in    Hogs    Market ;    tenant 
Haspytte,  rental   12*. 

(ii.)     An  orchard  near  the  well  in  the  Hogs  Market,  40 
by  II  yards,  containing  a  great  pear  tree  and  iwo  little  saIj  1 
tenant  Roger  Haskytte,  rental  6:  8*. 

{12.)     A  garden  and  an  orchard  near  the  Castle  HiJIs, 
nine  apple  trees,  six  plum  trees,  two   cherry    trees,  twelve 
trees  (quince,  warden,  and  apple),  and  one  old   apple  tree; 
Mark  Robins,  rental  20*. 

(13.)  A  dovehouse  and  a  little  parcel  of  ground  :  tenant  A 
Hopkins,  rental  12^. 

(14.)    An  old  decayed  house  abutting  on  the  lane  called  Sil 
Street;  tenant  Edmund  Guye,  rental  i^*. 

(15.)     A   Utile   orchard,    with   eight   apple   trees.    Ihrre 
trees,  and  three  ash  trees;  tenant  Lawrence  Manleiy,  rental  ij*. 

(16.)     "A  little  Spong  of  ground,"  40  yards   by   5   yards, 
taining  four  appletrees.  a  medlar  tree,  and  a  plora   tree  "havi 
alwie  a  Pylbearde  tree  cut  down  in    yt,  and  alsoe  xxj*^  pi 
Filbeardes  in  it " ;  tenant  fildward  Smjibe,  rental  i6*. 

(ij)     A  little  garden  tn  Silver  Street,  having  six   cb 
a  plum  tree,  and  a  Blberl  tree.  21  yards  bv  u  yards  .  tt 
Long,  rental  2'. 

(18)  An  orchard  and  garden,  Jurmcrly  part  ot  a  cuttiinon 
called  Cappe  Laae,  having  in  it  seven  apple  trees,  nine  plum  ixi 


TOWS    PROPERTY".  155 

■o   nut    trees,    and    a   cherry   tree ;    tenant   Thomas    De>-nteyth 
Bital  2».  4*. 

(19.)  A  piece  of  Cappe  Lane,  adjoining  the  above,  containing' 
nc  apple  trees  and  a  plum  tree;  tenant  William  Brown,  rental  16'. 

"Landes  in  the  Wesie  Quarter  "  include  :— 

(1.)  The  West  Gate  and  "  a  piece  of  grounde  sometime  called 
dte  Towne  Dj-ke  extendinge  in  Lengthe  from  the  weste  gate 
ftrowghe  the  ground  of  Henrj'  Walker  to  the  River  syde  con- 
teynethe  in  Lengthe  Fowerscore  yardes  and  at  the  North  end 
'  Sfie  yardes  And  at  Sowthe  End  xvj  yards  and  from  the  Crosse 
'  wall  along  the  River  syde  and  xl  yards  in  lengthe  and  Fyfteyne 
'  yards  in  breadthe." 

{2.)    A    house    or    tenement  of  nine   bays,    with  a   yard    and 

I  prdoi  containing  a  great  apple  tree,  seven  other  apple  trees,  and 

\  a  plum  tree ;  also  a  piece  of  the  Town  Dyke  with    willows    in    it, 

i  mtnty  yards  by  nine  yards ;  a   back   house   of   five  bays ;   and  a 

kib  house,  with  dove  house,  and  small   stable  of   one  bay,  with  a 

gaiden  containing  an  apple  tree,  nine  young  ash    trees,  and  other 

joang  apple  trees ;  tenant  Isabel  Bradfield,  rental  26*.  S^ 

(3,)  A  little  house  of  two  bays  next  to  Bradfield's  yard,  once 
parcel  of  the  Town  Dyke  fourteen  yards  by  ten ;  tenant  John 
Ainsnorth.  rental  S**. 

(4.)  "A  piece  of  the  Town  Dyche  From  M^  Aynsworthe's 
litle  house  to  Mervells  Mylls  with  dj^vers  wyllowes  in  it " ;  tenant 
Henry-  Clarke,  rental  5'.  8*. 

(5.)  A  slated  house  of  three  bays  in  Gold  street,  called  the 
Store  House,  with  a  garden  containing  two  apple  trees,  two  plum 
rees,  and    other  small  trees  ;  tenant  James  Goodwyn.  rental  5*. 

f6.)  A  little  garden  lying  at  the  back  of  St.  Katharine's  ;  tenant 
ohn  Hopkyns,   rental   16''. 

(~j.)  A  slated  tenement  of  six  bays,  in  good  repair,  with  a 
Tiall  garden,  lately  occupied  by  Mistress  Skerolles ;  tenant  Henry 
harpe,  rental  26*.  Z*. 

(8.)  A  slated  tenement  of  four  bays ;  tenant  William  Reade, 
;ntal  10'. 

(9.)  "  The  towne  hathe  and  holdethe  one  Schoole  house  called 
aint  Gregories  howse  and  Mr.  Sawnderson  holdeth  one  garden 
:  tbende  of  the  same  schoole  howse  having  in  it  one  peare  tree 
iwer  Apletrees  fower  Nutt  Trees  and  a  Cherye  tree  conteyninge 
y  estimacion  halfe  a  Roode  of  grownde  Rente  by  yeare," 


156 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


(lo.)  "John  Aynsworthe  holdethe  att  the  handes  of  the  demy; 
of  Mr.  Saundtrrsoi)  one  other  Garden  lylnge  on  the  Northe  syd 
of  the  same  Schoole  howse  havinge  in  it  Iwoe  waUnutie  trees 
Three  Plumbe  trees  conteyninge  by  estimation  a  Roode  of  Groundfl 
aod  Adjoyningc  to  the  gardt^n  of  the  said  Mr.  Sawnderson  of  the 
Sowth  syde.  Hee  holiieih  alsoe  one  oilier  piece  of  Grounde  waJlcd 
is  on  bothe  sydes.  Buttinge  northe  on  the  Schcolesyde  And  on 
the  left  hande  of  the  Gate  entrin;»e  in  to  the  Schoole  yardc 
conteyninge  in  Icn^the  Twelve  yardes  and  in  brcadthc  Eighi 
yardes  and  payethe  noe  Rente  for  the  same  to  any  person." 

(ii.)     "The  same  William  Sau'nderson  hoWelh  one  Howse 
lon^nge  to  the  Frecf  Schoole  lyinge  over  againste  Tlioma.s  Cras 
conteyninge    by    estimation    fyve    Bayes    with    a    garden    therei 
belonginge    and    conteyninge    A    Roadc    of    Growndc    with    twoe 
Aplelrees  and   Sixe    Plumbetrees    in    the    same    Rente    by   yeare 
nihil."  ^ 

(12.1  Three  roods  of  ground,  called  St.  Katharine's  churchyardjM 
containinge  fifteen  apple  trees  and  three  nut  trees;  tenant  George" 
DaKon,  rental  4'. 

(13.)  A  stable  of  four  bays  in  College  Lane,  in  bad  repair, 
with  a  garden  having  in  it  a  warden  tree,  a  pcachc  tree,  a  plum 
tree,  a  holly  tree,  and  a  bay  tree ;  tenant  Thomas  Freare,  rental  O*- 

(14.)  A  courtyard  at  the  back  of  the  Swan,  "and  the  Svfanne 
hathe  hut  the  breadthe  of  a  Carte  throughe  the  yard  and  not 
more  " ;  tenant  Richard  Wilkinson,  rental  16'. 

(15.)  A  stable  of  four  bays  in  College  Lane,  with  a  little  yiid 
containing  two  appletrees ;  tenant  John  Bichenoe,  rental  ^. 

(16.)     Lawraunce    BoUe    holdeth    by  a   lease    "one    Howse  or 
Tencmerte   with  a  Back«yde    and  certeinc  wyllowes    and    Plumb''- 
trees   lyinge  in    the    Colledge    Lane    hetweene   the    howse    of  our 
aovercigne  Ladte  the  Queenc  of  the  Sowthc  syde  and  a  Iit1«  Lane 
leadinge   by    Mr.  Balgaycs    howse   of  the  northe  syde  cootejming* 
xij  Baye*!  of  howssinge  whereof  Power  of    them  being  Slatted  An* 
hee  holdethe  alsoe  one  little  Close  lyinge  aUoe  on  the  northe  $y^ 
of  the  weste  bridge  conteyninge    by    Estimation    halte  an    Acre  o' 
grownde  .^nd  there  are  alsoe  Three  fJaye*  and  a  halfe  more  bcins^ 
Slatted  parccU  of  the  xij  bayes  afore-iayde  Rent  by  yeare  xxv*. 

"  Lantfts  lyinge  i»  theaste  ja^r^tfr  "  include  : — 

(r.)     A  tenement  of  two  bays  with  a,  little  kitchen,  and  a  li.1 


I 


TOWN    PROPERTY.  I57 

garden  containing  two  apple  trees  and  the  halfe  oF  a  warden  tree ; 
tenant  Margery  Woodford,  rental  8'. 

(2.)  A  house  of  two  bays  with  garden  containing  an  apple 
tree,  half  a  warden  tree,  and  a  bay  tree  ;  tenant  Agnes  Wright, 
lental  6>. 

(3.)  A  house  called  St.  George's  Hall,  of  eighteen  bays,  whereof 
mne  bays  are  slated  and  nine  thatched,  with  backside  and  pump 
a&d  two  little  gardens ;  tenant  Robert  Story,  rental  53'.  4''. 

(4.)  A  thatched  stable  of  two  bays,  with  a  hogyard,  and  a  little 
garden  containing  a  plum  tree,  "  lying  in  Dychers  Lane  alias 
Grope  Lane";  tenant  Lawrence  Balle,  rental  8*. 

(5.)  "Mr.  Thomas  Haryson  of  Stowe  hathe  Encroached  upon 
a  Lane  lyinge  nere  Saynte  Gyles  Churche  whiche  goeth  to  Grope 

Uae  end," 

ft 

I  (6.)  A  slated  house  of  eight  bays  with  a  kitchen  in  St.  Giles 
street,  with  a  little  thatched  stable,  and  a  garden  containing  three 
apple  trees,  three  cherry  trees,  and  divers  other  young  trees,  and 
with  a  great  holly  tree  at  the  door;  tenant  Elizabeth  Hone, 
rental  16". 

(7.)  A  little  close  near  the  Dearne  Gate,  containing  a  rood  of 
pound,  with  three  apple  trees  and  four  plum  trees  in  it  ;  tenant 
Mark  Robyns,  rental  2'.  8*. 

(8.)  A  little  stable  near  Cow  Lane  end,  with  a  little  garden 
having  three  apple  trees,  a  nutt  tree,  a  warden  tree,  and  three 
ash  trees;  tenant  Thomas  Burgess,  rental  20''. 

(9.)  A  little  stable  in  Cow  Lane,  and  a  garden  with  one  apple 
tree:  tenant  Edward  James,  rental   16*. 

(10.)  A  thatched  house  of  three  baj-s  in  St.  Giles  Street,  with  a 
little  garden :   tenant  Robert  Rands,  rental  6'.  8'^. 

(II.)  An  orchard  in  Cow  Lane,  forty-nine  yards  by  twenty 
yards  ;  tenant  John  Coles,  of  London  ;  rental  2'.  S"*. 

"Rotten   Rou-e."* 

Item  one    little  Spong  of  grounde  lyinge    in  a  Close  in    Rotten 

Rowe  from  a  Stake  nere  the  midle  of  the  sayde  close  in  Breadthe 
westwarde  Eighte  Yardes,  in  lengthe  Threescore  and  Syxe  yardes 
betweene  the  Queenes  lande  of  theastte  syde  and  the  lande  of 
Mr.  Ravenscroffte  of  the  Weste  syde  one  kylne  howse  conteyninge 


•  Rotten  Row,    i.e.,  the  row  oi   the    Rood   or    Cross,  was    Ihe    name    for   the   paved   cauaewar 
leading  from  Ihe  south  bridge  to  Qu«n  Kleanor'a  (ross. 


158 


NORTHAMPTON    DOROUGH    RECORDS. 


in   Lengthe  wesLwArd  Syxteyne  yardee  and  one  piece  of  griMiiid 
buttinge   uppoti  the  saj'de  kylne   in    Breadth    we«iu-ardc  lo 
hedge  and  xxvtij    yardes  and  in  Length)-*  and  threescore  and 
yardes   beinge  in  the  same    Tenne  Apletrees,  one  Fayre   lire 
two  Ashes   lyingc  betweene  the  lande  of    Mr.  Ravenscroffte 
and    weste,  and    from    the   Syde   of   the   said  Icyinc   howse  to 
Brooke  syde  Tenne  yardes  Ivnnge  Waste  as  a  highew'ayc  Leadiagej 
towardes  Delaprie  with   dyvtrrsv  willowes  set    by  the  Brootfc  ivdt J 
and  soe  lykewyse  from  the  two  Tenemenles  lo  tbe  Brooke  «ydc, 

"  l^andes  lyinge  in  (ke  Checker  vsarde"  include. — 

(l<)     A  tenement  in  the  Checker  butting  upon  the  Barlcv  HBIr 
tenant  Anthony  Walker,  rental  26»  8". 

t2.)    A  tciiemcnt  of  three  hays,  "  with  a  lilel  kytcfavn  and  lud. 
syde  "  tenant  Thomas  Burges:^,  rental    i6*, 

(3.)     A  shop  under  the  toiis-n  hall ;  tenant  John  Flower,  renul  tf. 

(4.)     A  shop  under  thr  town  hall :  tcnani  John  Howe,  rr' 

(5.)     A  shop  under  the  town  hail ;  tenant   Geori;r  Con 
renUl  6«.  8*. 

(6.)     A  shop  under  the  town   hall  ;    tenant  Nicholas   N'cnmn, 
rental  6'. 

(7.)     A  little  shop  near  the  conduit  under  the  Iom'q  ball;  tcnut] 
Joan  Fell,  rental  4'.  4*. 

(8.)     A  little  shop  at  the  jail-hall  door,  near  the  conduit;  tenmt] 
John  Holmes,  rentjil  16*. 

(9.>     A  shop  under  the  town  hall,  next  to  the  town  jail :  vaad\ 
Thomas  Harrison,  rental  26*.  8*. 

(lo.)    A  little  i^hop  under  the  lon-n  hall,  next  to  the  shop  cA  Jc 
Hollccd,  woollen  draper;   tenant  Thomas   Sanbrokc   ("tenant  }ki\ 
Maire's  clcarkc)."  rental  S*, 

(it.)    A   piece    of   ground,    called  a    woodyard ;   tenant   Jc 
Hollccd,  r«nt  3«.  8*. 

(12.)     A  Hsh-stall    "next  to  the  shoppe  of   Witltam  Chaur 
Hsquyer":  tenant  Edward  Giatton.  rental  4'. 

(13.)     A  piece  of  ground  at  the  back  of   Richard  Britton's 
next  lo  Woolmonger  street ;  tenant  Lawrence  Manley,  rental  Sd. 

(14.^     A    tenement   of    three    bays    with   a    Ican>to,   all   slat 
adjoining   All   Saiol»'   Church :    tcoaiii  Cliubctb   Wandlcr, 
^   4'- 


TOWN    PROPERTY.  159 

'  Landes  lyinge  in  the  Sowthe  quarter  "  include  : — 

(i.)     "  One  Htle  lane  lyinge  on  the  backsyde  of  Brydewell  and 
eadinge  to  Sainte  Johanes  " ;  tenant  Robert  Shepherd. 

(2.)     Another  piece  of  ground,  parcel  of  the  same  lane  ;  tenant 
Edward  Chatton,  rental  16^. 

(3.)     Another  piece  of  the  same  lane  ;  tenant  William  Lowacke 
nntal  iG*. 

(4.)    Tenement  in  Bridge  street  of  five  bays,  with    a  kitchen, 
Vuttery,  stable,  and  divers  other  houses  of  office  of  eight  bays,  all 
Ihitched;    and  with  a   little  garden    near    Marvell's    Mills;  tenant 
Gtorge  Andrew,  rental  10'.  8^, 

(5.)  A  "  Sponge  of  grownde  lying  from  his  broade  gate  from 
lis  Kingswell  Lane  to  a  grownde  called  Rookes  Mucke  hyll " ; 
tenant  William  Rainsford,  rental  4''. 

(b.)  A  little  house  in  Bridge  street,  containing  a  bay  and  a 
half,  with  a  little  garden  at  the  back ;  tenant  Hugh  Moringe, 
rental  4'. 

(7.)  A  little  house  with  garden  in  the  same  street ;  tenant 
Cuthbert  Metcalf,  rental  4'. 

'S.)  Another  tenement  with  garden  in  the  same  street ;  tenant 
Henry  Trott,  rental  5'. 

{9.)  A  tenement  of  four  bays  in  the  same  street,  "  slatted  on 
the  Backsyde,"  with  a  thatched  house  of  two  bays  ;  tenant  Robert 
Hilton,  rental   20'. 

(10.)  A  tenement  called  "the  Armentage  of  the  Sowthe 
Bn^dge "'  of  three  bays,  lyinge  next  the  river  on  the  south  side ; 
tenant  Thomas  Ashpole,  rental  4'. 

(11.)  A  slated  tenement  in  Bridge  street  of  two  bays,  with  a 
fjtile  close,  having  five  apple  trees,  and  well  replenished  with 
Billows  and  cherry  trees;  tenant  Valentine  Davidson,  rental   18'. 

("12.)     A    thatched    house    of    two    bays  in    Cotton  End;  tenant 
jcoffrey   Brv'ce,  rental,  5'. 

(13.)     A  garden  in  Cotton    End  Vith    six    apple   trees;    tenant 
ohn  W'ilson,  rental  2'. 

(14.)  A  tenement  in  Cotton  End  of  four  bays,  two  slated  and 
HO  thatched,  with  a  little  house  of  a  bay  "  thacked  on  the  backe 
yde."  together  with  a  garden  containing  three  ash  trees,  seven 
pple  trees,  two  pear  trees,  a  walnut  and  a  filbert ;  tenant  John 
V'ilson,  rental  10'. 
(15.)     An  acre  of  meadow  ground  at    Cotton    End,  having   four 


i6o 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


ash  trees  at  the  liead  of  the  close,  and  twenty-eight  ash  trees  on 
the  west  side,  next  to  St.  Thomas  (bridge  chapel)  two  great  ash 
tree»,  and  ut  either  end  two  ash  trees  and  certain  willows; 
tennitt   Richard    Wilkimion. 

(l6)  A  tenement  of  three  bays  in  Bridge  Street,  «herco(  the 
side  toward  the  street  is  sUted  and  ihe  olher  side  thatched,  with 
a  garden  having  nine  apple  trees,  one  pcax  tree,  and  a  walnut 
tree;  tenant  Edward  Wilson,  rental  &.  8*. 

(17.)  A  house  of  two  bays  in  the  south  quarter,  having  a 
garden  with  three  apple  trees;  tenant  Lawrence  Manley,  rental 
&.  8*. 

(18.)  "One  piece  of  a  mcadowe  beinge  the  latter  Croppc 
lying  on  the  Backesyde  of  the  Queenes  place  dyched  Rounde 
abowte";  tenant  Lawrence  Manley.  renLil  6'.  8*. 

(19.)  A  thatched  house  of  two  bays,  with  a  garden  containing 
two  apple  trees  ;  tenant  Robert  Pinner,  rental  4'. 

(aoO  A  lillle  piece  of  ground,  with  two  apple  trees,  and  one 
ash  tree ;  tenant  Robert  Can-ell,  rental  rfi*. 

(21.)  A  "hogge  stye  "  and  a  garden  in  Kingswelt  lane;  tenant 
Richard  Freeman,  rental  2^.  6'. 

"Landes  lying  in  Mylton  " : — 

(i.)    A  piece  of  meadow  with  a  parcel  <rf  land,  lying  in  the 
field  of  Wootton,  and  seven  lc>'s  abutting   on    the    same    (acre^' 
not  given  f,  with  one  acre  of  arable   land  adjoining,   next  to 
Lady  Bridge  on  the  north  side ;  and  one   piece   of    ley    containi 
four  acres,  lying  in  Bonnam  Furlong ;  and  another  piece  of  ley 
three   acres,  lying   <n   Woodfurlong,    beyond    the  town  of  Miltoa: 
tenant  Robert  Dukcson,  renial  £^ 

(2.)     All  Uiose  purceU  of  land  and  meadow  lying  in  the  sevci^ 
Belds  called  Arkcsham,  in  the  parish  of  Wootton,  in  tlie  tenure 
lease  of  William  Samwc-ll.     The  description  of  the  property  in 
open  fields  of  Arkcsham  ia  given    verbatim,  as    illustrative  o( 
cultivation  and  occupation  of  those  days; — 

In  ih«  Northefeilde  of  ArKam  in  a  Furloii}^    lying  East   and    wotc  Twoc  Ic'* 
The  one  a  Aadland  ncxtc  St  Juluiics  Unde  un  the  Sowibe  sjde  In  an  ethtr  P«rlc«^ 
Sbooting«  Spwthc  uppun    the    tUdl.ind    »faretal<l    »*A    Northe    upon    IIib   w>iIiIi>*^ 
called    Amantf.     Tbcrc   5*  twoe  b>l(c   Acres  of    Err«blc    Und   St.    Jofcinei  Uf^^ 
bdn^  OR  both  lydn  in  th«  w«»ta  Fcildv  o(  Arsjun  in  «  Fitrlon(«  Sttpatinf 
ap|>on  th«  ukl    Iries  Ends  and   Thnipps   broalce  beiDg   oo    tbs  w«n  vf6e. 
haUe  Aarca  of  Erratic  Und  St.  Johannes  lande  beinc  on  botlie  tq'tic*  is  \\ 


TOWN    PROPERTY.  l6l 

Id  of  Antam  in  a  Furlangc  Shootinge  Easte  uppon  Cotton  and  Hargingstone 
c  west  towardes  Thnippe  Bridge,  Twoe  halfe  Acres  of  Eirable  land  the  uttermoste 
nrds  the  leies.  A  lejre  of  Saynt  Johanes  in  thr  NorthRelde  on  the  northe  syde 
d  Sainte  Johanes  lande  of  the  Sowthe  syde  in  the  same  Feilde.  Two  halfe  Acres 
Eirable  land  the  two  unermoste  Southeward.  The  hyghe  waye  on  the  weste 
de,  a  Leje  d  Sainte  Johanes  lands  on  bothe  sydes,  A  Short  Butteieye  uppon 
Mther  Shorte  furlonge  more  Westewarde,  The  one  end  weste  warde  unto  the 
leadowe  The  other  Ende  weste  warde  uppon  the  Errable  landes,  Saint  Johanes 
udcs  on  bothe  sydes,  in  the  meadow  of  Arxam  from  Thruppe  Bridges  Northesyde 
rhis  jeare  Northampton  towne  and  Mr.  Samwell  Three  Pole  from  the  waye,  and 
jw  M'  of  Sainte  Joanes  nyene  Pole.  Then  againe  the  (towne)  and  Mr.  Samwell 
Tint  Pole,  and  then  Sainte  Jones  nyene  Pole  and  soe  Throughe.  And  the 
Tonei  parte  Amownteithe  xvij  poles,  and  xvij  halfe  Poles.  And  the  nexte  yeare 
tke  M'  of  St  Jones  is  next  the  waye  and  begynneth  with  his  nyene  Pole,  and  then 
NWli'ton  towne  and  Mr.  Samwell  followe  as  aforesaid. 

No  tenants'  names  or  rentals  are  given  with  regard  to  the 
remainder  of  the  property  calendared  in  this  survey.  The  probable 
reason  is  that,  at  this  time,  the  property  subsequently  mentioned 
was  immediately  cultivated  by  the  town  under  the  chamberlains. 

Heyfard. 

Two  and  a  half  acres    of  arable  land,  in  half  acre  strips,    in 
different  parts  of  the  fields  of   Heyford. 
Pitsford. 

Certain  lands  belonging  to  the  free  school  of  Northampton, 
in  the  occupation  of  Richard  Ware. 

(i.)  Half  an  acre  butting  into  the  Heath,  near  to  Boughton 
Meer. 

[2)  Half  an  acre  in  Brampton  Bridge  fields,  "on  Shorte 
nlacke  myles." 

(3)  One  rood  at  Elderstompe,  near  Boughton  Mcer. 

(4.)  Half  an  acre  on  the  Longe,  butting  into  Brampton  Way. 
Pitsford. 

(1.)  A  house  or  tenement  at  the  south  end  of  Pitsford,  next 
to  the  tenement  of  the  late  Fraternity  of  St.  Katharine's  of 
I'Ortharnpton ;  with  the  following  lands  belonging  to  this  tene- 
ftient:— Three  butts  or  ley  adjoining  a  close  called  Thirdboroughs 
Grass;  an  acre  of  ley  butting  upon  Walter  Kirkman's  wall,  and 
'"0  roods  in  the  same  furlong ;  and  an  acre  and  three  roods 
'j^  respectively  on  or  near  Broad  Lands,  Awsons  Well, 
Wobn  Way,  and  Debdale  Head. 

(2)  Lands  lying  in  the  Croft,  viz.,  a  rood  at  Hobbs  Hole ; 
li^fanacre  at  Whitwell  Path;  a  rood  at  Langwell  Hill;  a  rood  at 

M 


164 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


Furlong ;  baU  20  acre  on  the  east  side  of  Loiidoa  Way :  bait  an 
acre  in  the  same  furlong ;  a  rood  being  a  headland  al  the  upper 
end  of  the  same  furlong ;  and  half  an  acre  adjoining  Fosbury 
Yard. 

(4.)     Moor  Field. 

Half  an  acre  in  Fulbrook  Furlong;  half  an  acre  in  Bracknyll ; 
half  an  acre  on  the  ume  hill ;  a  rood  of  ley  on  the  (tame  hill ; 
hall  an  acre  at  Porte  lane ;  half  an  acre  of  ley  in  the  P>'kcs ;  half 
an  acre  of  Icy  00  Bracknyll;  six  lands  lying  together  on  Coldttch: 
half  an  acre  on  ihe  sairt  furlong  :  half  an  acre  in  James  Croft ;  and 
a  headland  at  the  upper  end  of  James  Croft. 

(S)     Rodvelt  Field. 

A  rood  of  lev  at  Marvcll  Gutter:  half  an  acre  adjoining  London 
Way ;  a  rood  lying  on  Lang  Lands :  half  an  acre  in  the  same  furlnogi 
ball  an  acre  en  Rodwell  Hill :  being  half  an  acre  under  Rodwe'll 
Hill ;  half  an  acre  on  the  west  side  irf  Oxford  Way ;  half  an  acre 
^tootiic  into  Oxford  Way;  another  half  acre  of  the  same  furliM^: 
a  rood  adjoiaaig  Cotton  Town  End ;  half  an  acre  on  Gutter  Hill ; 
and  half  an  acre  in  the  Gallcs. 

"JVctf^Vctf?  icf^Mgim^  to  Samlr  Lconardes  as  /oilffUfetht" 
iadodc: — 

An  acre  ol  meatfew  ground  in  Noonc  Meadow;  and  aootlier 
acre  lying  in  the  same  meadow. 

*•  J/m^^wt  Crwrnde  lying  t'm  Cattom  Marske  " 

Twt)  haV  roods  of  meadow  in  Crooked  Roodcs ;  another  little 
rood  in  the  samr  meadow ;  a  hocik  of  meadow  ground  in  St- 
Leonard's  Hook ;  half  a  rood  in  Over  Marsh,  and  one  rood  ia  the 
same  meadow. 

"SmU^Amria  Yttrde  Unde  demysed  to  Mr.  Roger  Haikytk 
with  St.  UvmarJfs:' 

(t.)    BnxNnhUl  Field. 

A  md  io  White  Leys  furlong:  another  rood  at  the  head  of 
the  sune  {uriong:  a  rood  at  Mead  Leys;  half  an  acr«  in  the 
MUnr  furlong:  a  road  io  the  same  furlong;  half  an  acre  in  Long 
Broocnhin ;  half  an  acre  in  Foxalls ;  a  rood  of  ley  in  Foxalts ;  and 
bait  an  acre  in  Long  Ley*. 

(a.)     Hai«kne>-  FkUL 

Halt  an  acre  in  Tbntpp  way  Furze ;  Half  an  acre  of  ley  at  Grrtl 
I>cbaak :  half  an  acre  of  lej-  lying  under  HilkKks ;  haU  an  acre 
of  ky  on  the  lop  of  UiUods;  haU  an  acre  in  Ncttleboro  Furlong; 


TOWN    PROPERTY.  165 

a  rood  in  the  Fifteen  Acres ;  half  an  acre  in  Monshill ;  half  an 
acre  lying  on  Hawkway;  half  an  acre  in  Feedale ;  half  an  acre 
adjoining  New  Close ;  half  an  acre  in  Short  Hawkway  ;  half  an  acre 
in  the  same  furlong. 

(3  )     Meer  Field. 

Half-an-acre  in  Feedale ;  half  an  acre  shooting  into  Oxford 
Way ;  an  acre  shooting  into  Oxford  Way  called  Throwe  Acre ; 
half  an  acre  in  Myddloocke  Slade  ;  half  an  acre  by  Wootton  Mere  ; 
a  half  acre  butt  by  London  Way ;  and  another  half  acre  by  Wootton 
Meer. 

(4.)     Moor  Field. 

A  rood  under  Little  Bracknell ;  a  rood  of  ley  in  the  Moor ; 
half  an  acre  in  the  Flaxland ;  half  an  acre  under  Bracknell ;  half 
an  acre  on  Windmill  Hill  ;  half  an  acre  in  the  same  furlong ; 
another  half  acre  in  the  same  furlong ;  a  road  in  Maunsell 
Furlong ;  and  half  acre  butting  into  London  Way. 

(5.)     Rodwell  Field. 

Half  an  acre  of  ley  by  Meerhole  Gutters  ;  half  an  acre  butting 
into  London  Way  ;  half  an  acre  in  Langlands  ;  half  an  acre  between 
Rodwell  Slade  and  Cauldwell  Slade;  half  an  acre  in  the  Galles ; 
and  half  an  acre  shooting  into  Oxford  Way. 

(6.)     Meadow  belonging  to  Salisbury  Yard  Land. 
Three  roods  of  meadow  in    Noon    Meadow;    and   one   rood  in 
Little  Cotton  Marsh. 

"  Certeine  Meadowe  Grounde  belonging  to  the  Free  Schoole 
given  by  Mr.  Chipseye  iate  in  the  tenure  of  George  Dalton 
ieceassed." 

(1,)     Seven  acres  in  Cotton  Marsh. 

(2.)     Twenty-eight  roods  in  Little  Marshes, 

{3.)  A  hook  of  meadow,  containing  two  acres,  in  Cotton  Marsh, 
next  to  the  river. 

Gradual  Loss  of  Town  Property. 

If  this  Elizabethan  terrier  of  1586  is  compared  with  the  rental 
receipts  in  the  time  of  Charles  IL,  as  already  given  in  the  full 
transcript  of  one  of  the  chamberlain's  annual  accounts  of  that 
reign,  it  will  be  noticed  that  there  had  been  a  serious  loss  of 
landed  and  house  property  during  the  century.  The  records  contain 
several  notices  of  the  sale  of  house  property  and  small  plots  of 
land  to  pay  off  specific  liabilities  of  the  corporation. 


i6G 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


In  (621  the  mayor,  bailiffs,  and  burgesses  conveyed  to  WiUL 
Lcwcs,  of  Northampton,  hosier,  two  messuages  and   tcncmcnta 
Abinglon  Street,  with  a  garden,  for  £^0.    In  ihe  same  year  tfar 
corporation  sold  a  garden    in  Cow  lane  to  John   Clifford,  vintner, 
for  ^14;  two  tenements  in   the  South  Quarter  to  John  Mayriy 
tanner,    for    ^£40 ;    a  stable  and  garden   in    Derngate   to   W: 
Savage,    yeoman,    for    j^^ij    6s.    8d. ;    a  tenement    in  the  \U:\-i 
Square   to    Henry    Gillcsley,    Hnendraper,    and  to    John  Str^'-T 
shoemaker,    for  £$'^.   6s.    8d. ;    a  messuage  and    tenement  tu  :ir 
east  of  All  Saints  to  John  Loc,  ironmon^r,  for  Cf^  ;  and  time 
tenements  tu    North    street    to    Raphael    Humphrey,    liocndr! 

(or  £75- 

In  the  following  year  the  corporation  sold  funhct  liootc 
property  in  Northampton  to.  the  value  of  ^50.  A  piece  of  bud 
abutting  on  Silver  street  was  sold  by  the  corporation  in  164^  tar 
£1^  5s.  In  1680  Robert  Hestlbridge  Esquire  purchased  (ram  ^, 
town  certain  grounds   on   the    west  side  of  the  castle  for  £50. 

Other  portions  of  landed  property  were   sold   during    the 
centur>'-and-a-hal(,  though  not  to  so  considerable  an  extent. 

The  singularly  evil  but  common  custom  began  to  prevail  in  tbt 
latter  part  of  the  seventeenth  century  of  letting  the  corporate  p: 
of  the  town  at  a  low  rent  on  long  leasct^,  and  exacting  a  heai, 
for  present  expenses.    This  custom  gradually  grew    in   strength. 
and  was    particularly    bad    about    the    middle    of    the    cightectitli 
century.     For  instainre,  WilH.im   Cooke,  carrier,  renewed  his  lease 
of  St.  fjconard's  farm  in  1746,  for  forty-two  years,  at  a  rental  cl 
£21  $3.,  but  only  on  condition  of  the  heavy  Tine  of  /2to. 

GoniON's  Manor. 

In  the  early  Nonnan  days,  the  family  of  Gobion  bcld  of  the 
crown  a  considerable  tract  of  land  closely  adjoining  to  North- 
ampton, and  chiefly  on  the  east  side ;  they  had  also  certaia  fpK 
tenants  within  the  town. 

Tills  property  was  purchased  by  the  corporation  on  April 
1633.    The  sale  of  so  many  small  plots  of  ground  in  i6Jl-a 
to  help  to  find  tlie  purchase-money   for    this  large  estate 
title  deeds  of  the  Gobion  property  and  manor   then   canie 
the    hands  nf  tlie  corporation,    and   arc    still    amongst    the    t( 
muniments,     These  evidences  are  sufficiently  inlcresting    to    mi; 
some  devcription. 


TOWN    PROPERTY.  167 

Ihe     time    of    King    John,    William    de    Viponl,    senior, 

ted  to  Richard  Gobion   a  x'irgate  of  land,  beyoiid  the  soutli 

bridge  o(   Northampton,  on  the  west,  on  the  service  of  rendering 

yearly  a  pound  of  cummin  seed,  at  the  (cast  of  All  Saints.     Later 

on    in    the    same  reign,    William    de    Vipont,    junior,    renews    the 

I     Mine  gr-int  to  Richard  Gobion. 

^B  There  are  several  noteworthy  deeds  of  the  reign  of  Henry  III. 
^Kfclative  to  tJie  Gobion  property,  from  which  it  appears  thai  flngh, 
^^on  of    Richard  Gobion,  forfeited  his  lands  by  taking  part  against 

the    king   in  the  civil  wars  towards  the  end  of  his  n^ign.     Hugh 

Gobion  had,  in  all  probability,  assisted  Simon  de  Montford  and 
L^ir  baronii,  in  1264,  in  holding  Xortliampton  against  the  king's 
^Kvces.     The   king  granted  the   Gobion   lands  to  Hugh  de  Turber- 

ville,  son  of  l^rd  Roben  de  Turbervillc,  lord  of  Crickhowcll. 
j  But  soon  afterwards,  namely  in  1 36S,  Hugh  Gobion  recovered 
I     all    his   lands  and  tenements    in  Northampton   and    Harleston,  by 

paying  a   fine  of  redemption   of  ninety-five  marks  to   Robert  de 

Turbervillc.  brother  of  Hugh,  the  king's  grantee. 

About  1270  Hugh  Gobion  purchased  a  house  near  St.  Giles' 
churchyard.  In  12S3  Sir  Richard  Gobion  made  grant  of  a  house 
in  Bridge  street. 

Sir  Paynel  Gobion,  in  1357,  granted  to  J6bx\  Carden  a  life  lease 
of  a  messuage  and  garden  within  the  east  gate,  together  with  a 
meadow  called  Fortmcadow,  and  eighteen  acres  of  land  in  the 
fields  of  Northampton.  The  rent  wa^  fixed  at  20S.  for  the  first 
twenty.two  years,  and  afl«*r  that  term  at  loos.  per  annum.  The 
tenant   was  to   repair  the  premises 

[n    t36o.  Sir   Paynel   Gobion   leased   for  their  lives,  to  William 

Bacoun  and   his    wife   Isabel,  sixteen   acres  of  arable    land,    lying 

without    the    north    gate,   on   cither  side  of  the   king's    highway. 

from    St.     Bartholomew's     church     to     Walbek,      The    rent    was 

13s.  4d.  for  the  first  nineteen   years,  and  after  that  loos.     In   the 

WWing  year  Sir  Paynel    leased  (or  life,  at  i6s.  per    annum,  the 

in  shops    in   Gold   street    to    Adam    Ic  Cardemakcr  and     Ivctta, 

^is  wife. 

The  eame  knight,  in  1369,  leased  to  John  Palmer  and  Agnes 
Us  wirte,  tor  forty  years,  by  rendering  yearly  12  pence  and  two 
a^nt  at  Michaelmas  and  Easter,  a  garden  in  "  le  Gobyonnes 
Ime";  and  in  1373  he   leased  a  garden   outside  the  east  gate, 


i6S 


NORTHAMITON    BOROl'CH    RECORDS- 


vrith  scvera]   acres  of  arable  and  m«adow  Und,  to  John  Myfl 
ton,  draper,  (or  sixtceu  years,  at  a  rental  of   3t>s. 

In   1558  a  con%-eyance  was   executed   from    George   Tu 
of  Knaptoft.  Esquire,  to  Robert  Harrison,  of  Stowc-Ninc*CbuitK 
gentleman,    of    the    manor    uf     Gobion.     with     appurtenances.  ■ 
Notlhampton.  Coton,  and   St.  James'  end,  Iben  in    the  ocru)iUN 
of  the    right    worshipful    Francis    Morgan,    seneant-at-law. 
purchasc.moncy  was  ;i^i2o  at  the  sealing  of  the  conveyance,  £u 
on  ihe  next   feast    of    Pentecost,    "  at    the    fountcslonc   in  Si 
Paul's  Church    in   London,"  and  at  the  feast    of    Hilary  a 
sum  of  jC't'Q  at  the  like  place. 

The  "final  concord"  with  regard  to  this  transfer  of  the 
of  Gobion  recites  that  it  consists  of  three  messuages,  three  M3^ 
three  gardens,    three  orchard.^,  six    hundred  acres   of   land, 
hundred  acres    of    meadow,    three  hundred   acres  of  pasture,  1e 
acres  of  wood  and  underwood,  nnd  two  hundred  acres  oi  hettli,J 
and  briar ;  as  well  as  of  a  rent  of  ^£,'10,  twelve  ^ese  ud 
capons,  in  Northampton,  Coton,  and  St.  James'  cod. 

In    1^5   Robert    Harrison,    of    Stow-e-Nine-Churches,    rd( 
the  manor  of  Gobion  to  his  widowed  mollier,  Elizabeth  Ih 
for  her  use  and  that  of  her  heirs  and  assigns  for  ever.     Evrntv 
Gobion's  manor  or  farm  passed  to  Thomas  f^a^■ison,  ihc  surviriD 
eldest  son  of    Elizabeth,    and  formed  part  of    his    settlement 
1501    with    Francis    Bernard,   of    Abinj^on,    when    he    nurrifil 
Eiizatwth,  daughter  of  Francis  Bernard. 

Thomas  Harrison,  in  t6t6.  leased   to  William  Smith,  hu&bati 
man,  all    the    arable,    meadow,    and    pasture    lands    of   Goblo 
farm,    together    with   the  common    rights  in   Northampton    ficld^ 
for  thrce-and-3-half-years,  at  a  rental  of  £yi  per  annum  for  ll 
years,  and  a  pepper-corn  rent  for  the  lai.t  half-year. 

Meanwhile  widow    Elizabeth    flarrison  married  Henry  Trav 
of  Coventry,    .ind   the  manor    dividtrd    into    three    moieties,  a| 
various    legal  formalities.     Eventually,  in   October,    ifii?,    Thor 
H.-irrison   leased  a  moiety  of  Gobion's   manor  to   Henry  Travell, 
for  a  thousand  years.      On    the    back    of    thix    lease    a    note 
written    that  on   .April  24th,  1623,  Henry  Travell    assigned  all 
interest  in   Gobion's   manor   to    Henr>-  Cooper,   mayor  of    Nc 
amptoD,    and  others,    who  had    purchased    the    reversion    of 
whole  manor.      Leases  of  the  other  moictiea  are   eodorBcd 
a  like  fashion. 


TOWN    PROPERTY. 


169 


On  tricTTing  to  the  orders    of  a^sscmbly.   the   following  entry 
uodrr  date  Noremhcr   12th.  1621  ; — 

VlMnni  Mr.  ThomiH  Ct>wp«r  Malar  for  and  tn  th«  behnlf  of  lh»  Corpomcon 

hoo^icd    whb   Tkomni    HariMni  fctil    for  his    Mannor    or    Vttme    Cnlled 

Uiiiivor  with  All   tile  McMiugM   howiet   buildings   arable   Un<ls   tbcidows 

M   Roydhie*  and   Com  modi  liei   lo   Ibi!   vime   belonfiiiK    (or   the  svime  of 

Uttadrad  anil  iweiitie  putm^n,  «ih1  Ihcrecf  be  hath  given  ■nraot,  Item   at 

UMmbUc   Iht    Kildfl    bargain    ka  ^n«rallte    veil   approved   of  and  liked  ami 

It  f*  ofdercd  ibai  ihr  >aidc  Thoma.t  Covpcr  Maiar  shall  have  no  damage 

■  \li«  »aide  t>.iiK^)n«,  and  tk»l  the  Cotporali<m   shall   dcjend   and   t»»« 

.1)  trniM  >ke  saide  Thomas  Cturpcr  ar^  his  landi*s  KDodrs  and  Cattell^ 

'SiioKihe  saido  Thoniaa  Marlson  (or  any  trouble  soitc  dama|^  or  hindrance  tnajr 

heraiipon,  And  to  tii«nd>  Itie  aide  bar^ine  may  be  acMtrnplishetl  and    poid 

h  n  ordcral    that    ibcb  persona  followlnx,    vU.  Mr.  Tbomaj  Caurpcr    Maiot, 

mow  Chid  wick,  Rnphoft   HunJivy,   Abraham  Venlri*,  Thonux  Brndfufil,  Thoma* 

ilifirn,  RdwinJ  Colli*.    Aldirnnrr. ;   Wtiriam    Knight.  Rkbatd   Wollaiton,  Thomu 

itf  John  Hatbert  (oE  ihti  Companic  of  the  B.i)-Iif»  «f  the  .tolde  townc) ;  Job* 

aail   Henry  GItteibie.  two  of  the  Klviii  ol  the  saide  towae,  shall  hxT«  evatie 

rf  ibnn  lull  poocr  (o  view  and  apprise  itie  Chamber  tandes.  and  tq  aell  anil 

MoovTa  o(  Hft  much  laada  u  will  paj  for  tbc  aaid  bargaioe   and   this   to  b» 

«ilh  all  apede. 

The  larscr  part  of  Uic  purchase-money  was,  however,  raised 

mortgage.     The  actual  conveyance  deed  from  Tliotnas  Harrison 

ibe  mayor  and  corporation,  dated  .\pril  2otli,  1622,  was  deposited 

security  lor  mortgage  with  Mr.  Robert  Whitworth, 

The  principal  one  of  the  three  messu^es  of  Cobion's  manor 

tliat  within  the  walls. 

The  manor  tiou(«,  with  outbuildings,  yanlt,  and  closes  adjoining, 

that   fornied   "  the  town  farm,"  was  situated  on    the  north  side  of 

bington  street.     It  n'as  in  this  part  of  the  town  that  there  was 

e  greatest  amount   of  unoccupied  lands  within  the  walls.    The 

ildingft  were  much  damaged  at  the  time  of  tlie  great  lire,  and 

ire  iiuhEiK)uently  pulled  down.    In  1685  Mr  Robert  Adys  obtained 

ninety -nine    ytar    lease  of  the  homestead  of  Gobion's  farm,  at 

yearly    rental  of  £^,  on  condition  of  building  a  good  and  sub- 

ntiat    bouM!    with  a  frontage   to  Abington  street.     At  the  same 

roe    Mr.    Adys  obtained   a  lease  of  half   of    the    town  farm    for 

elve  years  at  a  rental  of  £^o-    The  other  half   was  let   to  Mr. 

Samkimi  at  a  like  rental.     In    t744   the   new   homestead  called 

Gubbina  Homestead,"  was   leased    for   iweuty-one  years  at  ;^20 

r  annum. 

In    1759  the  corporation  mortgaged  to  George  Tompson,  linen- 


I70 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


draper,  the  common  fields  pertaining  to  Gobion's  manor  for  £300.] 
The  mon«y  was  to  be  repaid  -within  a  year  with  five  per  ceot.| 
interest. 

The  enclosure  act  of  1778  fi8  George  III.),  termed   "An 
for  dividing  and  inclosing  tlw?  Open  and  Common  Fields,  Commc 
Pastures,  Common   Meadows,  and    other    Commonable   Lands   and] 
Grounds,    within    the    p.irishi*s    of    St.    Giles,    St.    Sepulchre,    St.j 
Lawrence,  and  Si.  Andrew,  In  or  near  the  Town  of  Northampton, 
in  the   County  of  Northampton,  some  or  one  of  them,  and  which, 
are    commonly    called  or  known    by  the    name    of    Northampton 
Fields,"  assigned  to  the  corporation  133  acres  of   land   in  lieu  ofj 
divers  parcels  of  land   pertaining   to    Gohion'9   manor,  that  were 
dispersed  in  the  open  and  common  fields  of  Nortliainpton.    These 
acres,  together  with  the  farmhoue'c  »nd  liomeslead,  brought  in  so 
tocomc  of  £s<)&  5S.  in  1834,  accordin}{  to  the  inquiry  instituted  hf 
the  commissioners  on  municipal  corporationa. 


The  Guildhall. 

The  Anglo-Norman  town  of  Northampton  possessed  a  town 
hall  as  the  centre  of  its  corporate  life.  The  brief  account  of  iU 
position,  given  by  Henry  Lee  in  his  manuscript  history,  i* 
probably  correct.  He  says : — "  the  old  Town  Hall  was  in  a  little 
close  adjoining  to  the  last  houses  on  the  right  hand  in  y*  law 
going  from  y  .Mayorhold  to  Scarletwell,  w**  well  was  tnutb 
esteemed  in  those  times,  there  ts  a  mark  of  stone  work  circular 
upon  J-*  west  end  of  y*  little  house  y'  adjoyned  to  y*  old  Hall." 

When  the  town  was  considerably  extended,  at  the  tctj 
beginning  of  the  fourteenth  century,  it  became  necessary  to  have 
a  larger  municipal  building,  and  to  place  it  near  the  rcwlx 
designed  market  square.  Though  the  somewhat  scant  early  hirtofj 
of  our  English  towns  establishes  beyond  doubt  the  fact  that 
mcrcliants  and  other  trading  guilds  flourished  in  alt  our  centres  of 
industry  from  the  time  of  Henry  1.  to  Henry  III.,  nevertheless, 
there  was  a  remarkable  growth  and  mullipUcation  of  these  trading 
organisations  from  the  time  of  Edward  1.  right  on  through  the 
fourteenth  century.  Town  life,  too,  began  generally  to  be  more 
busy  and  stirring  from  about  1300  to  r325.  and  it  was  at  this 
period  that  many  EnglisU  towns  were  enlarged,  re-walicd,  and 
supplied  with  new  guildliiiUs  and  municipal  oflTitcs. 


'i  So  far  as  wc  can  jiK^  :roi=  zii  iri-wTCSs  sat  a::x=n:xzinm^. 
4ere  seems  no  doubt  thai  Nc-criis^cni  =  j*:::zn»i  irm^  Etl  ir 
Ig^dhall,  which  was  erected  ai  zhK  ^rcrrer  ic  "ilTna^-mL  smc.  -^Jmr- 
c,Jpa  street,  was  built  in  the  tist  qiari-r  :x  :ae  iaimysia:  z^-tcitt- 
jed  it  is  equally  certain  that  h  vsf  =>*"**  uii  riiarirsi.  ji  zas 
, litter  part  of  the  next  cecTorr.  pcriazcr  -nrm, — -:;i--^—  ah^r  ■n* 
.  Icgi^tion  of  1489,  when  an  eajrgec  i;<c:r  "unizL  s-rr  1  mur  iry 
QDC  hundred  members,  took  ibr  ph^c?  cz  :=•?  ^kch^jT  i=aem:i7 

Several  guide-book  and  ocber  vrx^fr?  zn.  \icJC£3npL3L.  inkmnr 
that  the  old  assembly  of  the  towzi  zser.  3.  lie  czurri  a:  Sc  'liis 
Id  the  fourteenth  and  fifteenth  ce=t=riesi.  ii.Tt  raulT-  ztn  Lzs:r^ 
assumed  that  they  met  there  "-»^-a-^a*^  r^^z^  -was  zs.  rz^n.  ^«JL 
No  student  of  municipal  life,  cocl^i.  az^-rr-r  zfjs^J.-T  rtl,  ^ni 
aach  i  blunder.  No  ordinaxy  Kr-~.r^-g  coi^ic  aac  a  f^":^  aasccj'tT- 
of  the  whole  community :  fact  wb*^rer  '-j*  aa!*«i:=:.itT-  iirfi  a.  Tift 
<^>en  air  or  in  the  oavc  <ji  socse  lar^  ci^r"  x  if  liii'im:*  -^y 
a  town  hall  would  be  a  necessity  :'«■  tie  5fI3triii:ci  if  :i»i-  =arr:r 
*nd  his  pri\"j-  council,  for  the  b!>^<ii::^  oc  crri  arji  crirsii.  ruins- 
'or  the  stamping  of  recognizances,  Ux  ibt  tzsr-jH^Zig  -J.  fr-^-rrrrr;^ 
*iKi  for  a  great  varietv  of  other  p:;rpcees  — .-V.*— j'  ta  iD^nii:^:^!! 
life 

As  we  shall  subsequently  see,  the  xawz  foc=»i  as  •rvr—T  c;ci- 
panies  increased,  the  guiidhal'  inadetp^aie  iac  sxz.  ziir^osei  a=ii 
Viilt  itself  another  large  hall  or  gcilc-rooa  ia  ij-j:.  or*r  tix:  gT'tai 
conduit,  on  the  lower  side  of  Market  sccart. 

Several  references  might  be  give::  with  r-^^iri  t^  ti._=  t:T^ 
hall  in  its  earliest  days  froa  ceeiif  a::c  ■e-.-!cez.:*i  azt  :r:c:  ',iS:'^ 
documents  at  the  Public  Record  OSc*.  ':,;:  ■»■*  r:-r;  "--rri  ::-tr-: 
ourselves  with  the  entries  that  are  to  W  :c-.L.-t  i::  ti-*  li.t*r  ~  _::;- 
cipal  documents. 

It  will  be  noticed  from  the  drawings  -J-^t  the  z.'.-!  tc^vr.  Lill 
was  of  three  stories,  the  hall  itself  ind  the  ch;*:  apiruii^r.ts  b^i;:^ 
in  the  midst  (Plate  IV).  When  origi-ialiy  Cjr.i:.-.;r:'hd  th*  hill. 
and  its  adjacent  rooms  would  be  carried  or.  pillir?  ar.d  archr*. 
and  would  remain  open  beneath.  This  baj<r-.er.:  would  t>e  clc-=ed 
up  when  the  building  was  altered  aiid  enlarged  in  the  nfteer.th 
centurj*. 

In  1574.  the  use  of  the  "  Lytell  house  under  the  Towne  hail" 
was  granted  to  Geoige  Higet  and  his  wile,  rent  tree,  for  their 
lives. 


17a 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS 


The    Eliiahethan  period  of    1586   shows    that   ihere  wrre  tii«ij 
actually  nine  small  shups  under  the  town  hall. 

The  assemhly  appointed  a  committee  on  March  30th,  i5S6-]i'| 
to  vitfw  the  .ihops  under  the  town  hati,  with  the  intention  d  ltB*-1 
ing  ihom  into  a  town  gaol,  and  to  estimate  the  cost  an 
forward  if  they  had  sufficient  money.  They  were  also 
to  invite  voluntary  contributions  for  the  purpose. 

Two  shops   under   the  town    hall  were    leased    for   tweoQpj 
years  at  a  rental  uf  28s.  on  August    -<oth,  1607.  and  at  thr 
Utne  it  was  agreed  that  the  town   hall  should  1>c  forthwitli 
and  benched  round  abottt  at:  the  cost  of  the  chamber,  "  to  tht  is-| 
lent    that   Ihe  fourlic-eight    Burgeises   may  lake  and  orderlit  tea 
tlicmsclvcs  in  assemblies  and  meetings  as  other  the   Compiniwcil 
the  Common  Councell  doeth.'' 

The  first  order  of    the  assembly  that  met  on  March    - 
^rted    that   the   town    hall    n-as   very  ruinous,  and  or^L     _  . 
prompt  repair  at  the  lowu  charge ;   save  that  llic  wall  and  gutw 
next  Mr.  (ieorge    Kirkc's  house  were  to   be  repaired  at  the  joiot 
expense  of  Mr.  KJrke  and  the  chamber. 

These  repairs,  however,  if  executed  at  all,  must  have  bcoil 
accomplished  in  a  very  perfunctory  mamier;  for  little  more  thtti 
three  years  later,  namely  on  August  tith,  1631,  it  was  a^n  or- 
dered by  the  assembly — "  that  the  Townc  hall  being  vrr^-  ruinaledl 
and  decayed  shalbe  fourthwith  repaired  throughout  at  the  char^t , 
of  the  Chamber  of  this  townc,  and  that  there  shalbe  a  Bore  udl 
Roofe  erected  over  the  same  hall  and  that  the  walls  of  the  samej 
shalbe  raised  sixe  or  seaveti  (note  higher,  and  furtbci  as  ou.uiinj 
shall  serve." 

Although  the  tire  of    1675  spared  the  old   town   hall,  with  th 
exception  of   the  outer  striircase  and  certain   lean-tos,   the  com- 
paralivcly  large  sum  of  £3io,  raised  by  mortgage  on  corporain*! 
property,  was  spent  in  1677  on  its  repair*      The  greater  part  « 
thi»  would  be  used  for  the  new  staircase  and  portko  shewn  in 
illustration,  which  is  r<;pro(luced  from  a   drawing  made   in   i;i 
now  in  the  British  Museum  (Plate  IV.) 

The  chamberlains'  accounts,  which  are  not  exunt  until  alter 
Ihe   gre.il    fire,  also   (.'onL-iin  a  variety  of   entries    rclati\' 
building  and  its  litlings,  some  of  the  more  inierestin^;  of 
the  seventcenib  century,  are  subjoined  — 


TOWN   PROPEKTV. 


»73 


the  hall                       o  13    o 

WhiieiDK  the  lull  and  (or  Lyme  and  Mi>nar       .  .         ...  o    j    B 

3  yd*  And  C*  of  grceite  Cloth          ...          ...           -.          ..           ...  ^     7     9 

Pd  the  workman  for  fjctenin;  it  to  the  table      ...  o    O    6 

Pd  Oxlejr  Tor  meadins  tbe  led^ea  ami  Seuas  In  towne  IiaH    ...  o     i     3 

Pd  for  cleaning  tht  h.ill  ^»  and  6««n  for  waritman o    7  to 

Pd.  Hodgmen  (of  ro  paring  Tylw  for  tbe  Towne  Hall           ...  013 

IM  for  (he  caadloliclts  all  y*  lull O     1     O 

Pd  (or  pacing  the  Hall  staim       .         .  .                                ...  1     o    a 

Pd  Tbo  HAntiun  l<ii  Ironwerke  abvut  bangin);  the  Bell  at  Hall  o  14    « 
Pd  mending  gbme  winduwe*  at  Hall  and  an  upper  Light  biowne 

downe              ..           ■.         ..           ...         ...         ...         o  10  10 

Pd  BUnd  lixT  r>ew  lead  savrder  cic  at  hall            ,.  590 

Pd  (or  bonis  to  Ljrme  iha  Leadx  at  hall  ...         ,.,         ,„        ..047 

Pd  F«ndledon  5  days  work*  .^t  ball            ,. O    j     O 

iXher  accounts  for  1691  show  that  £2  ts.  sd.  was  spent  on 
ting  and  cushions  for  the  town  hall.  Iti  the  same  year  Mr, 
jrts  Wis  pat<i  Jji  4s.  6d.  for  ca:itiiig  pcwtc-r  dishes  for  use  in 
town  ball,  and  los.  for  hvo  pewter  catidlcsticks  and  two  pew- 


1^ 


1692,  two  shops  were  built  under  the  town  halt  at  a  cost  of 

II  108. 


'^ 


1700,   18&.  6d.  was  spent  on  pewter  dishes  for  the  town  hall, 
^  Ki.  for  engravinu  them. 

Ihe  following  year  a  lantern  was  bought  for  the  hall  for  23., 
the  firing  cost  £2  5s.,  viz.,  £,2  2s.  3d.  for  thirty  cwt.  coal,  and 
I.  lor  twelve  faggots. 
On  Atigust  5th,  1703,  the  mayor  and  aldermen  resolved  to  paint 
old  wain*coate  in  the  Counsel!  chamber,  and  alsoc  Lath  and 
tbe  Ccitinge  or  where  else  it  in  defective." 
■An  aceptional   use  of  the  municipal   buildings  is  recorded  in 
1.  irtrtQ  £3  45.  6cL  was  paid  to  the  chamberlain  by  Mr.  Coysh 
^  use  of  the  Town  Hall  to  act  their  Playes." 

it  was  ordered   that  "  a  Utic  Bell  be  provided  for  the 
house,"  this  wa^  probably  intended  for  use  of   the  mayor 
""order"  bell, 

CiiniiM  were  bought  for  the  town  hall  at  58.  gd.  in  1723. 
TV  mayor's  accounts  for    1724  shew    tliat  the  town    hall  was 
tt  Dw-pavcd  with  freestone,  at  a  cost  of  £,z  7s.  6d. 
In  iJiV-  Mr.  Robert  Welsh  was   paid    168.    "for  gilding  the 
'to  (n«J  at  tbe  Top  of  the  Town  hall." 


»74 


NORTMAMKTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


The  mayor  and   aldermen    rrsoivcd.  in   August,  1731,   that 
Treat  upon    the  Election  of  a  Mayors   Bailtfts  be  pcmiitlrd  lo 
hikd  or  made  at  the  I'own  hall,  if  such  a  thing  shall  br  attemj; 
or  offered  at." 

There  seems,  however,  to  have  been  no  rule  against  sroo 
in  the  hall,  though  wc  may  be  confident  that  tbui  was  not  done : 
any  formal  assembly,  but  at  evening  meetings  of  the  alHcrrofn, 
of  what  we  should  now  term  committees.  Pipes  setm  to 
been  provided  at  the  cost  of  the  town  (though  not  as  a  mir  I 
tobacco),  and  lliey  are  usually  associated  with  the  joint  pu 
of  candles.  Thus  in  1692,  85.  8d.  was  paid  "  for  Candles  and  Piptfl 
for  the  Hall."  ]n  1698.  3s.  was  spent  "on  2  grossc  of  Pypc»  lorj 
the  hall."  fn  1703.  35.  yd.  was  paid  for  six  pounds  o(  candles  mii'\ 
half  a  i!;ross  of  pipes.  In  a.^s.'^octation  with  this  last  entry  Da«i'j 
the  only  payment  for  tobacco  that  we  have  noticed,  is-  brinjj 
spent  on  Half  a  pound.  Again  in  [74J,  on  October  lath.  half  «' 
gross  of  tobacco  pipes  and  three  pounds  of  candles  irere  purcbW 
for  the  hall. 

An  cntr>*  for  Ibe  >-ear  1 754.  looks  as  if  there  had  been  soar 
distinct  feasting  or  punch  brewing  in  Ihr  town  ball,  notwitkstiod* 
ing  injunctions  to  the  contrary  i  in  that  year  "  4  dozen  of 
and  Oranges  "  were  purchased  for  ibc  hall. 

From   the   time    of    Queen    Anne   onwards    there    arc    «evoil] 

entries  relative  to  the   mending   and   gilding   of   "  the    Crmni  ind 

Mitre":    probably    this    refers   to   some    trophy   or   cmhelli»hm««l 

over  the  mayor's  seal. 

Tile  following  entries  require  no  comment : — 

£.  %  i^ 

tj4$-6  P*  Mr.  Fowlci  for  a  Tnumtnt  for  tbo  Town    Hull        „.        ,..      a    1    • 

t76(>.|  P*  Ihtr  King«  Duly  For  ihe  Covpontion  PlaU <*    3   * 

1771      A  Sand  boa  and  tnctic  at  town  ball           ...  ..       o    t    ) 

IJ94      P*  tor  CftveriiHt  lh«  DmU  lit  ihe  Tcwn  Halt 

In  1800  Mr.  Birdcall   was  paid  £2  is.  for  framing    nnd  gl 
a  print  of  Lord  Nelson  for  the  town  hall. 

In   the   same   year    Alderman   Giltson    p.iid    £3    ■5*.     '  u-r 
room   undemetbe   Town    Mall   facing  Mercers   Row  lately  us«l 
a   Tovm  Goal "  ;  and  Mr.  Roddis  paid  £2  3s.  for  the  "  m 
under    the   Town    hall    facing    the    Market    Hill   lately   tued  a< 
Bridewell."     This  was  clearly  only  the  rental    for   part  of    a  yearj 
for   next  year  the  rental  of  the  old  gaol   was    £^,    and  of 
bridewell  rooms  j£|3  14s.  6d. 


TOWN    PROPRRTV. 


<75 


The  second  town   h^ll  and  its  site  were  sold  by  auction,  on 
35tii,  1864.  when  tliey  realised  j[,\200. 

The  Town  Gaols. 

What  the  town  did  tor  gaols  before  they   began   to  ose  the 

divUions    of    the  basement  of    tlte    to\m    hal),    originally 

Etlrd   up  for  shi*p^,  we  are   unable  to  say,  except  that  in   early 

Jizabethan  days  there  was  a  small  building  tcmied  "  the   towne 

le."  closely  adjoining  the  town  hall,  and    having  a  door  opening 

,  Abinytou  street. 

tmy  probably,  throughout  the  Norman,  Plantagenet,  and  early 
ar    days,    some  arrangement    would    be    made    by    the    town, 
rhcrehy  the  ronflncincnt    of    their    prisoners    would    be    secured 
ewhere  within  the  extensive  prrmiseK  of  the  castle. 
In    15S4  the   assembly    agreed    that    the  ehop    under  the  town 
II,    tlicn    in   tbe  tenure  of  Thomas    Harrison,    should  be    made 
ito  »  gaol  for  such  persons  as  might  be  committed  for  debt,  and 
to  be  cmploynl  for  any  other  purpose. 
Two  years   later   the  aswmbly    resolved    that    Mr.  Mayor  and 
MHne  of   bis  brethren    should  view  the  shops  under  the  town  hall, 
with  the  inlcniion  of  making  them  a  gaol,    and    to    go    forward 
with   the    work  ;i!   once    if    they    had    sufiicient    money.      It    was 
irther  ordered  that  there  should    be   a  collection    made  for  the 
le  object  from  all  such  persons  who  will  give  anything. 
The  following  order  appears  under  date  of    April  and,  1610 : — 

ji  ap(>cii(t<h  qptni  t&«  accomptc    <A   tbe    CttambcrliUU    ot    iha    Cor- 

kDoied  rh»  iliie  ihal  much  money  is  spent  mil  ot  the  towiK  rh.imber  in 

JI>f  of  larks  And  iroiHfor  ihcufciyof  ihepHtODcncommilled  lohiHMa'*"ir*(>le» 

lltlil«  1W  >4ulc  lowm;  for  in  and  alMut  the  M(e  Idfrpeng'  o(  which  *Aid«  IlkIcv  an<l 

[)«  tbe  btylib  of  t)iU  corporAtiun  have  tjoen  much  rarelesi,  weu  cominualUe  ntw 

For  nAna*  thereof   )-t  U  unWvd  tliai  hemifter  the    chatnlicrljimi  »h.ill 

nor   k«ye   nnie   \vt\t%   at  Irotti   (nr   tha   taid    gtoles,  but   that  lK« 

yGfa  that!  prnvUe  thrm  at  theii  awn  chaises. 

[t  wa*  reported  in  1613  that  the  corporation  gaols  were 
VmIv  owch  oiti  ot  r«}>alre  ind  verle  weilce  (or  the  dMcrynin];  iinti  hepdnj  of 
iriftWM  hIc  withovi  ilaiingcr  le  the  Baflifa  and  Ibcir  oBlccn  inMcmvcb  u  vcrie 
mi  air  feaotpei  kjvc  t>«eA  UtcUd  mede  to  ti»e\t  great  damage.  It  is  ardMcd  llwt 
then  abaU*  /uunhwith  dblMneil  uut  ti  ibe  iciwne  chamber  x"  tu  l«e  emplojrad  in 
mtA  «i>uui  the  Mrvnstlwning  iha  Mmt  gattlca  and  \n  the  muuniniB  tills  ibe  jraale* 
tern  itnapJMtMd  then  shaDw  a  watch  appolatad  cvsria  night  at  the  towne 
:  tor  Che   wadiiriK  and    keepini;   ufe   of   the   prnonert   and   dcbion   thetber 


I^ 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RCCORDS. 


A  like  order  wah  made  for  repairing  tlie  gaols  in  i6i().  owing^ 
lo  the  continued  escapes  uf  the  prisoners. 

[n  1653  new  iron  bars  were  ordered  for  the  gaol  windowi 
after  the  escape  of  three  prisoners.  Repairs  to  doors,  locks,  and 
bolts  were  frequently  entered. 

The  chamberlains  were  ordered,  on  October  13th,  1664,  to  well 
and  sufficiently  strengthen  and  rcpaire  the  common  nao's  belonging 
to  the  town  at  the  chamber's  charge.  The  term  gaols  would  refer 
to  (i)  the  gaol  for  ordinary  prisoners,  (2)  the  debtor's  p^IaoD^ 
(3)  the  bridewell,  or  house  of  correction. 

In  1675  mending  "  the  Gaolc  window  "  cost  £t  4s. 

The  town  accounts  invariably  contain  an  r:nir>'  of  xos.  for 
emptying  the  gaol  soil  tub. 

In  1715  the  mayor  and  aldermen  ordered  the  chamberlain  to 
pay  lad  a  week  to  Thomas  Good,  a  prisoner  in  the  town  gaol 
for  felony  "  towards  his  maintainancc  till  further  Orders." 

Sixpence  was  paid  in  1727  "for  a  Bottle  of  Straw  for"T 
prisoner." 

In  1728  the  chamberlain  for  thirteen  weeks  paid  a  poor  womao, 
who  was  a  prisoner  in  the  gaol,  i2d.  a  week  "to  maintain 
herself  and  Oiild";  and  in  the  same  year  Widow  Haston  vu 
paid  £i   los.  Gd.  for  bread  for  prisoners  lu  the  gaol. 

Irons  for  the  "towne  jailc"  C0!>t  4s.  lod.  in  1743. 

Just  at  the  close  of  last  century  the  inconvenience  and  flu- 
healthiness  of  the  various  small  gaols  under  the  lawj\  hall 
became  so  obvious,  that  the  corporation  abandoned  their  use,  and 
secured  a  building  at  the  comer  of  St.  Giles'  street  and  Fish  laW 
for  that  purpose. 

The  assembly,  in  t8oo,  ordered  that  the  Rev.  JcAn  StocUaff 
should  be  presented  with  his  freedom  gratis,  he  '"having  takt** 
much  pains  in  attending  the  prisoners  in  the  Tou'nc  Gaol  witliout 
having  or  expecting  any  compensation  for  such  attendance." 

Houses  of  Corriiction  and  the  Poor. 

The  sudden  increase  of  vagrancy,  caused  by  the  dissolution  of 
the  monasteries,  was  the  chief  cause  for  Oic  passing  of  iIk 
hideously  cruel  statute  of  vagabonds  under  Tdward  \'I.  A  runawif 
8er\'ant  was  to  be  branded  on  the  breast  witli  the  letter  V,  xni 
adjudged  to  be  tlie  slave  of  any  purchaser  for  two  yeaxE.  TIk 
owner  was  "to  give  him  bread,  water,  or  small  drink,  and  refuse 


TOWN  PROPERTV. 


177 


meat,  and   cnuse   him  to  work  by  beating,  chaining,  or  otherwise, 

V  my  kind    o(    labour,    though    never   so  vile."     If   he  absented 

\miel\  (or  fourteen  days  at  any  time  during  the  two  years,  he 

tas  to  be   branded   on  tlie  forehead   or  cheek  with  the  letter  S, 

adjudged  to  be  the  slave  of  his  master   for  ever.     A    second 

lence  was  to  be  consiiicrcd  felony.     Though  idleness  and  vaga- 

age  were  thus  terribly  punished,  this  act  was   to  a  certain 

M  progressive   in  another  direction,    for    it    provided  for  the 

of  convenient  houses  for  the   relief  of  the  aged,  crippled, 

and  the  weak. 

In  London  the  kiny  assigned  a  large  house  adjoining  St.  Bride's 

iridget)  churchyard,  Fleet  street,  for  this  purpose.   Close  by  was  an 

)t  well  called  after  the  saint,  St.  Bride's  well,  hence  the  name 

(tie  first  house  of  this  description.     From  this  it  came  about  that 

((es   for  the   relief  of  the  poor,   but  chiefly  for  the  correction 

the  idle  and  vagabond  became  known  as  bridewells. 

Although  much  of  the  act  of  Edward  VI.  was  repealed,  almost 

lly  severe  statutes  were  passed  in  the  reign  of  Elizabeth.     In 

Mjj6  it  was  enacted   that  everj-  corporate    town    should   maintain 

stock  (or  setting  the  poor  to  work,  and  that  there  should  be 

of  correction   or  bridewells    in  every   county.     The    legis- 

of  39  and  43  of  Elizabeth  led  to  the  general   establishment 

poor   rates   levied  by  the  parishes,    of    parochial    workhouses, 

of  county  and  town  bridewells ;  though   even    at   tlie   end  of 

iis  reign  there  was  no  verj*  clear  distinction  between  the  bridewell 

tlie  workhou>e. 

It  was  not  until  the  year  1615  that  the  town  of  Northampton 
^fimtdy  established  a  house  of  correction.  The  corporation 
*as  naturally  desirous  to  do  this  with  as  Utile  expense  as  possible. 
^^  space  beneath  the  town  ball  being  already  utilised  as  a  gaol- 
tiiey  decided  to  use  the  chambers  beneath  the  conduit  hall  as  the 
^■-fideWelL 

Tbe  following  U  the  first  resolution  passed  on  this  subject  by 
*f  assembly  :— 

"■'haaat  tW  CorpOTBtios  i*  likelie  to  be  mucb  iinpov«ru]ied  bj  the  resortlnf  of 
j  ^Tn*  tnd  Vapaiu  to  thi«  io«ro«  who  uak  to  plant  thetntelves  here,  and  tvheara 
I  "*'*II  Ikajr  at  other  pertons  nowc  here  inhibiting  hoviiif  doc  meano  will  followe 
I  ^  tiwfull  rontion  but  \ivt  Idly  and  by  the  spoyie  of  other  menii  goods  tti  (he 
I  ™  ■uin^ks  of  Mhen  withlit  lbi»  lownc.  For  icpruting  whereoE  and  all  idle  and 
I  **"^K|[  penoH  about  this  tovme,  (t  is  ordered  thit  there  shalbc  fosnvHh  a 
L^^K  vl  Comciton  provided  al  the  low-ne  durge  and  a  muter  appainUd  aceotd- 


178 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


^ 

,-J^ 


iaglle  to  ov«rsM  and  hnv«  the  ordcdR;  of  >uch  persons  u  ihalbc  tlkber  com 
from  lymt  to  tyint^  And  thai  all  thingi  in  aai  about  the  ume  thit  sh^^  fitt  and 
reqiisitc  slialbc  ordered  si  the  dlscrciSon  o(  the  Miiot  JtisiScca  uid  Aldermeo  of 
thi*  Gorporittion. 

Edward  Downes,  glover,  was  appointed  tbe  Grst  roaster  of  the 
house  of  correction,  but  he  resigned  in  1617,  in  con^quetice  of 
old  age  and  infirmity. 

The  labour  a<i.'<igned  to  the  inmates  of  the  Northampton  hoi 
of  correction  was  the  grinding  of  malt.  In  1619  John  Fisher, 
master  and  a  freeman,  complained  of  "  the  greate  hurte  am) 
detriment  which  doth  arise  and  growe  to  him  b)*  reason  that 
Artliur  Smyth  a  forrej'ne  Miller  who  inhahiteth  within  the  libertie* 
of  this  towne  hath  sett  up  the  trade  of  grynding  of  maulte  which 
doth^'  mtiche  hinder  the  means  appointed  by  the  Corporation  for 
the  maintenance  of  the  said  house,"  In  coosequence  of  this  com- 
plaint the  assembly  discharged  Arthur  Smyth  from  the  griodiag 
any  more  tnall  within  the  liberties,  or  following  his  trade  as  9i 
miller  unless  he  took  up  his  freedom,  \ 

In  February,  1646-7,  it  wa«  agreed  that  Mr.  Sm&rt  should  be 
master  of  the  house  of  correction  for  the  town,  and  should  be  paid 
the  same  allowaDce  that  Mr.  Game  had. 

There  was  not  so  very  much  difference  between  the  ordinaty 
gaol  and  the  place  for  the  confinement  of  rogues  and  vagaboads, 
so  that  we  need  not  be  surprised  to  find  that  the  chambcrl^K 
were  ordered  in  1657  to  see  to  the  immediate  repair  of  "tbt 
Conduit  Hall  and  the  Prison  undemeathe." 

In  1697  irons  were  provided  for  the  bridewell,  at  the  cost  cf 
2s.  6d. 

In  the  same  year  it  was  ordered  by  the  court  of  aldermen  " 
unless  John  Boone  provides  toolcs  to  sett  poorc  Prisoners  (that 
were  committed  to  him)  at  work  as  Master  of  Bridewell  by  Lady 
Day  next  he  be  dismissed  of  his  office  and  another  person  placed 
in  his  roome." 

So  far  as  regards  the  out-relief  of  the  poor  was  concerned, 
town    of    Northampton   seems    to   have    acted    with    wisdom 
humanity.     Its  bye-laws  in  the  early  part  of  Elizabeth's  reign 
decidedly  in  advance  of  national  legislation. 

In    1569  it  was  ordered,  for    the  better  relief  of   the  poor 
their  provision  in  wood,  that  no  inhabitant  of  Northampton  shoi 
adl  any  manner  of  Hood  by  weight  unless  it  hath  been  felled  ciglil 


TOWN    PROPERTY. 


179 


months  before  siich  sale,  under  pain  of  i2cl.  to  the  poor  man's  box 
is  AH  Saints'  church,  (or  every  pennyworth  thus  sold.  It  was 
(crther  ordered  that  the  woodmonsers  shall  cause  their  wood  to  be 
doro)  and  broken  four  months  before  sale,  under  a  like  penalty; 
ifiat  the  wood  when  cloven  was  to  lie  dry  in  a  hout>«  or  under 
wme  hovel,  under  a  like  penalty ;  and  that  they  sell  no  less  than 
feurtcen  pounds  for  a  penny.  This  last  order  was  orij»inalty 
written  "  twentie,"  and  fourteen  has  been  written  over  it  in  a  later 
biiici.  By  the  same  order  it  was  also  provided  that  the  mayor  for 
die  lime  being  had  authority  to  enter  the  houses  and  yard  of  any 
■Wtlmonger  to  sec  that  these  ordinances  were  observed. 

Some  twenty  years  later  an  interesting  atlempt  was  made  to 
ngulatc  begging  or  seeking  of  alms. 

The  assembly  agreed  in  1585  that  twcnly.one  poor  people  be 
allowed  to  have  the  badge  of  the  town,  and  seven  to  go  two  days 
lo  llic  inns,  and  the  next  two  days  another  seven,  and  so  on,  in 
Oricr  that  they  wight  completely  "  be^gc  the  towne."  All  others 
thai  had  not  the  badge  who  were  taken  begging,  to  be  committed 
Ic  ivard  at  Mr.  Mayor':*  discretion. 

h  is  not  to  be  expected  that  ton-n  records  would  contain  much 
with  reference  to  the  relief  of  the  poor  either  in  workhouses  or 
tbeir  own  homes,  because:  this  was  done  by  the  separate  parishes. 
All  Saints',  however,  was  so  closely  connected  with  the  corporatioo 
tliat  there  are  some  references  to  the  relief  of  that  parish  as  well 
M  others  of  *  general  and  humane  description. 

In  1598,  an  assessment  was  levied  on  the  inhabitants  and  occu- 
piers of   lands  within  the  p.irish  of  All   Saints,  whereby  a  sum 
of  ^13  6s.    8d.  was   raised   "for  the   setting  of   the   poore  of   the 
amc   parishe  on  worcke  and  for  other   uses  according  to  an  acte 
made  io  the  parliament  holdcn  at  Westminster  in  the  xxxix''  year 
of  the  qucnes  raigne."    The  greater  part  of   this  money  was  still 
in  hand  in  the  following  year,  and  the  assembly  disbursed  most  of 
this   balance   in  payment    of    constables'    claims    of    the    different 
wards  for  moneys  expended  In  the  relief  and  conveyance  of  vaga- 
bonds and  cripples  pa.ssing  through  the  town    in  accordance    with 
the   provisions  of  39th  Elizabeth.    Strange  to  say  a  plumber's  bill 
for  the  repair  of  All  Saints'  church  was  defrayed  from  the  same 
source. 

In  1623  there  was  a  great  multitude  of  poor  in  Northampton.     A 
remedial    measure    adopted    by  the    assembly    was    to  check  the 

N  » 


i8o 


NORTHAUn-ON   BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


coming  into  the  town  of  mansen-ants  and  maidservants  frow 
foreign  places.  It  was  provided  that  henceforth  no  servants  were 
to  be  engaged  without  the  consent  of  the  maj'or  and  justices, 
and  entry  was  to  be  made  of  each  sen*ant,  whence  tliey  comCi 
and  what  wages  they  received. 

Il  is  peculiarly  interesting  in  these  days  when  social  scheme* 
of  relief  throu^^h  public  works  are  so  much  discussed,  to  find 
that  the  town  of  Northampton  adopted  this  method  of  dealing' 
with   the  unemployed  as  early  as  the  time  of  the  Commonwealth. 

It  was  reported  to  the  assembly  in  December,  1647,  that  there 
was  a  multitude  of  poor  people,  being  able-bodied  labouring  men, 
with  (amilirs  to  maintain,  in  every  parii^h  in  the  town  who  were 
destitute  of  employment,  and  that  if  in  those  dear  times  and  the 
great  scarcity  of  victuals,  no  means  was  taken  to  find  them  woit, 
many  inL-onvcniences  and  outrages  to  the  disturbance  of  the  peace 
might  ensue.  'Ihc  assembly  therefore  agreed  to  raise  {,\oo  00 
those  of  ability  to  set  the  able-bodied  immediately  to  work  in  the 
repair  of  the  highwaj-s  in  every  parish,  aiid  in  other  public  affairs, 
wlierein  "the  saide  labouring  men  may  be  employed  in  worice 
and  kept  from  idleness." 

In  August,  164^.  the  assembly  voted  jC30  to  be  spent  in  buying 
charcoal  tit  the  best  hand  for  the  poor,  that  they  may  be  able  to 
buy  it  at  easy  rates  in  the  winter:  Mr.  Giflard  undertook  U 
make  good  the  £y>  to  the  chamber  in  the  following  July. 

In  the  mayor's  accounts  for  1701-3.  £,1  173.  4d.  is  paid  Mr- 
Richard  Wallis  for  spinning-wheels. 

Mr.  William  Pcttitt  was  mayor  that  year,  and  a  most  energetic 
reformer.  In  a  printed  sheet  of  his  accounts,  of  which  a  fragmcaC 
only  remains,  he  says  : — "Aly  being  mayor  with  pains  and  charge-9 
sunk  the  poors  roll  nears  Sol.  per  An.  in  the  parish  of  All  Sajnts-i 
by  setting  the  poor  to  work,  the  girls  to  spinning,  and  the  boys 
to  prentice,  and  gave  the  old  people  tlic  ^ame  allowance  2^5 
formerly,  or  rather  more." 

In  1702  "Mr.  Mayor    is  desired   to  pay  down  4"  to  make  i^x^ 
the  sums  given  to  the   Poore  att  St  Thomas  last  And  it  shall 
repaid  him  or  allowed  him  in  his  Accompt  as  Mayor." 

The  mayor's  account  for  1704-5  mention  a  payment  of  js.  to; 
a    spinning    wheel,    and    4s.    Gd.    "  for     Learning    Betts'    boy      toi 


spinn. 


h 


TOWN    PROPERTV. 


i8i 


In  October,  1728,  the  mayor  aiitl  aldermen  ordered  a  weekly 
peymenl  of  3s..  out  of  the  profits  arising  from  the  tolls  on  corn, 
to  William  ClifTortl,  "  who  is  reduced  to  poverty." 

In  November  of  the  same  year  ihe  court  instructed  the  cham- 

irlaia  ta  make  a  weekly  payment  of  4s.  to  the  widow  of  Alderman 

lobert  Styles,  ''  who  is  fallen  into  poverty,"  towards  her  support 

nd  maintenance 

At  a  meeting  of  the  mayor  and  aldermen  held  in  the  (iuildhall, 

December   2iat,    1741,    it  was  ordered    tliat  the    chii.mberlains 

[do  pay  to  -Mr.   Mayor  £1^,  to  be  by  him  distributed   (amonjfst 

other  public  charity  moneys)    in  charity  amonpst  the  town  poor 

I  "in  siKih  manner  as  was  settled  by  tlie  said  Mayor  and  Alder- 
inai  at  a  publique  meeting  in  their  said  Guild  Hall  on 
Doerobcr  i8th." 
Like  sums  were  voted  by  the  court  od  St.  Thomas'  Day  in 
scTcral  subsequent  years,  when  the  weather  was  exceptional 
*rcfe ;  they  were  used  to  supplement  the  ^\\\.%  made  at  such 
ti*ics  by  the  recorder,  borough  members,  or  other  charitably 
tflispoicd  folk  of  position. 
£40  was  voted  for  tlie  relief  of  the  poor  during  the  inclement 
•inter  season  of  1 795-1800. 
On  December  ()th,  1800,  the  assembly  subscnbett  j^too  to  the 
fc»d  for  the  relief  of  the  distressed  poor,  provided  that  every 
"KAber  of  the  corporation  be  entitled  to  act  on  the  committee 
'•^  that  Ihc  corporation  be  allowed  aoo  soup  tickets,  i63  of 
"Iwh  to  be  disposed  of  by  the  81  members  of  the  corporation, 
^■1  the  remaining  38  by  the  mayor  and  justices. 

ila  January,  iSao,  the  assembly  subscribed  iiioo  in  aid  of  the 
floiatifln  received  from  Earl  Compton  for  the  relief  of  the  poor 
"at  this  inclement  season." 
St.  George's  Hali,. 
In  addition  to  the  tonm  hall  and  conduit  hall  the  town  also 
'  powessed  another  fine  hall  of  far  larger  dimensions.  This  was  St. 
Gtcrt^e's  hall,  situated  on  the  south  side  of  Abington  street,  not 
•W  from  the  market  square.  It  ser\'ed  as  the  guildhall  for  the 
•*t  important  of  the  town  trades  (the  shoemakers),  for  various 
™cr  mcciings.  and  as  a  convenient  store  place  for  the  properties 
'nW  were  used  for  the  town  pageants  in  "  the  good  old  days," 
""■i  (or  the  pewter  and  other  vessels  that  the  chamberlains  kept 
™  Ibc  town  banquets. 


l82 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    HECORDS. 


The  following  was  the  town  store  of  pcntcr  kept  at  St. 
George's  Hall  in  the  time  of  Queen  Mary:— 

An  Inventory  nude  the  xix*  liay  t£  januaiy  a.'  1554  in  the  lenne  of  WiU" 
Tsyloc  mayor  of  all  the  town  vcMcllei  delyvered  lo  Will*  Hirpoll  clu(nb«rUyn  ty 
the  lundes  of  John  Adaiiui  as  folowetli — 

First  iij  liuacn  oE  pluii«rs  And  Ij  dciacn  pcwicr  diuhys  btodc  brynkyd 
Item  vij  pewter  dtubys  narroo  brinket 
Item  xiij  Sawicts 
[tvm  iij  ilotDii  of  ley  m«ttyll 
li«m  Tij  cpyit<4  W  vij  handylln 
Item  i)  payrc  o£  Rackes 
Item  Iij  long  hingis  of  yron 

Item  ij  payre  of  gymmcs  a  old  canttyt  cck  and  ii)  keyi 
"Cynune*,"  iharr  hingct. 

In  the  time  of  Elizabeth,  when  the  meetings  of  the  guilds 
and  town  pageants  were  going  out  of  fashion,  the  corporation  let 
this  fine  hall  and  its  accompanying  chambers  to  private  tenants. 

In  1568  the  assembly  resolved  thai  as  "  Mr.  John  Kyrlclande 
had  been  at  great  charge  in  the  rre)building  and  maintaining  of 
the  great  tenement  culled  St-  George's  hall,  which  is  likely  to 
continue  a  considerable  charge  tu  htm  he  be  allowed  to  renew 
his  lease  for  twenty-one  years  at  the  old  rent." 

In  March.  1581,  the  assembly  authorised  Mr.  Kyrklande  to  go 
to  London  that  term  to  defend  the  matter  brought  by  iohn 
Bradfcildc  against  Robert  Story  (Mr.  Kyrklandc's  sub-tenant), 
for  St.  George's  hall,  the  town  to  bear  his  charges. 

Fortunately,  we  are  able  to  give  interesting  information  with 
regard  to  this  hall,  the  very  existence  of  which  has  hitherto 
been  ignored  by  Norlhainpton  historians,  from  a  series  of  depo- 
sitions in  answer  to  interrogatories  made  in  May.  1581,  on  bchall 
of  John  Kyrklande,  when  it  was  sought  to  upset  the  claim  o* 
the  corporation  to  these  buildings.  These  papers  are  amongit 
the  corporation  records.  The  actual  words  of  the  inter rc^alorks 
are  as  follows  : — 

(1)  Imprimia  Wheliief  doe  you  knowe  a  ccrtaync  1i«um  in  Abingfton  Rroeie 
In  the  totrne  of  Northnmpcon  CAlled  Si  GeorKen  halle  or  no 

(a)  Ilem  howc  lunfe  li»rc  you  knowne  tWi  •»»■«  and  to  what  use  ludt  tttt 
•ante  house  been  put  and  occupied  these  ihirtie  or  fortie  years  pasnd  m 
mure  and  by  whose  appointment  batU  ii  bene  occupied  and  vrhoe 
occupied  the  s4m« 

(3)  Item  i>y  whocne  hatha  the  taide  home  bene  thirtie  or  fonie  y«an  ago  or 
more  repaired  or  amended  and  at  whose  charges  has  die  same  alltratcs done 
as  yon  have  knowen  or  haidc 


TOWN    PROPERTV. 


r83 


(4)  Item  wbetker  doc  jmi  Iniowc  or  tiare  7011  lurdc  th«  ulde  house  tiAlhe 
twite  ■  Fral«mltie  and  home  long  U  it  xilhenoe  it  w>«  «□  accompled  and 
hove  kaowe  jtou  it  wu  t  Fr&Urnitte 

(5)  Item  hy  wh>t  nun«  tha  MJde  Prattrnjtie  if  ^nj  such  were  incorparats 
ci(h«r  by  MaMcr  and  brcthwiiB  «r  RUit«r  and  f«llow«i  or  mchelike  and  no 
wfaal  sorte  the  masters  and  bmhcfn  or  master  and  fellowu  havr  bene  chosen 
and  abouie  wkat  tvmo  the  cbousinge  of  titera  hath  ceised  and  whoe  hathe 
had  tlic  UM  ihereoC  ever  since 

Item  whdhci  ibc  Biavlei  ol  the  Fnitun:rl>«  U  any  suchc  were  had  hia  office 
for  a  yen  onlie  or  for  li(«  ct  for  what  other  tyma  and  by  whome  the  sue- 
ceuor  WH  clioaeii  alter  the  decease  of  any  predeccsaur 

llem  wboe  irai  tnaiter  there  inate  when  it  wan  arc««ipted  a  fraternytie  and 
hone  longe  it  it  lithence  there  wai  a  master  or  a  Fratemite  there 

On  May  19th,  1581,  depositions  in  answer  to  these  interroga- 
tories were  made  ai  Northampton  before  Sir  Robert  Lane,  George 
Carlton^  ^sq.,  Francis  Samuell,  Esq.,  and  Thomas  Sutley, 
gentleman,  the  coramissioners 

Robert  Charles,  clothier,  aged  85,  makes  answer  that  he  has 
known  the  house  called  St.  Geor^'s  flail  for  forty-one  years, 
that  about  twenty.five  years  ago,  John  Grene,  fishmonger,  occupied 
it  by  the  appointment  and  leave  of  the  mayor  and  chamberlains, 
that  twenty-six  years  ago  the  mayor  and  chamberlains  allowed 
ihirty  pounds  tmto  John  Baylye  towards  the  repairs  of  St. 
George's  Mall,  and  that  he  can  say  Dothing  to  the  last  four 
,.     interrofialories- 

^m     James  Muse,  miller,  aged  5S,  deposes  "  that  he  hathe    knowne 
^Rhe  sayde   house  by  the  space   of  ihirtie  yeres  or  there  aboulrs 
^■knd  that  immediatelie  after  the  dissolution  of  the  White  Friars  in 
^Biorthampton   where  the  shoemakers  of  Northampton    were  accus- 
'^tomed  to  kcape  their  fcastes  the  said  shoemakers  didymediatelic  after- 
wards kcpc  iheire  fcastes  in  the  saidc  house  called  St.  George's  hall 
whiche  they  did  by  thappoinlment  pennyssion  and    license  of  the 
chambcrlayncs  of  Northampton  for  ihc    tymc   being";    that  about 
ihirtic  years   ago   John    Baylic    undertook  to  repair    St.    George's 
Hall  for  the  town,  and  that  he  had  heard    the  said  John    Baylie 
(who  was  his  master),  say  that   he  had  lost  twenty   nobles  by  it ; 
\A  the  last  four  interrogatories   he  can   say  nothing. 

John    Ballgay,  haberdasher,  60   years   of   age.  deposed  that  he 

hid  known  St  George's  Hall  for  fifty  years,  and  that  he  was  one 

ol  ti«  chamberlains  when    Anthony  Brian   was  first  mayor,  which 

«5  thirty   years  ago;    that  he    received    the    rent    of    the    said 

how  «  the  hands  of  John   Prentice,   then   town  clerk,  and  that 


i84 


NORTHAMPTON    DOROUGH    RECORDS. 


he  repaired  the  same  at  the  town  charge,  and  thai  the  same  house 
was  used  "to  laic  in  vessels  spittes  jackes  brasse  and  suche 
like  of  the  townes,  and  alsoc  pagcantcs  whiche  vessel*  and 
utcnsclles  aforesaid  this  deponent  as  chamberlaine  did  Ictt  out  to 
hire  to  suche  persons  as  had  oeede  of  tlie  same  to  the  bcnefitte 
of  the  same  towne  and  that  he  was  constable  to  the  same,  and 
that  he  contynucd  in  the  same  office  foure  yeres  tt^ther  and 
used  the  like  order'*;  that  he  hath  uot  known  that  the  house  at 
any  time  has  been  a  fraternity  and  that  to  the  last  three 
interrogatories  he  can  say  nothing. 

William  Buttler,  shoemaker,  age  52,  deposed  that  he  had 
known  St.  George's  IJall  for  37  years,  and  that  during  that  time 
it  belonged  to  the  town  of  Northampton,  and  that  it  was  occu- 
pied  by  the  shoemakers  in  keeping  of  their  feasts  there  immediately 
after  the  dissolution  of  the  White  Friars;  that  about  jt  years 
ago  John  Baylie  Rhoemaker  (being  his  master)  repaired  the 
house  for  the  toune  and  that  it  cost  him  20  nobles  more  than 
was  allowed  him,  and  to  the  last  four  interrogatories  he  can  say 
nothing. 

John  Ko^rte,  cleric,  aged  70,  deposes  that  he  hath  known  the 
said  house  for  fifty  years  in  perfect  remembrance  and  that  the 
mayor  and  chamberlains  of  Northampton  have  always  had  the 
use  and  occupation  of  it  as  a  "towne  house"  and  have  osed 
the  same  ti)  lay  therein  pageants  and  vessels  of  pewter  and 
brass  and  suchlike  at  thL-ir  pleasure;  that  there  were  two  hou$e4 
parcel  of  the  same  that  fell  down  and  were  repaired  again  at 
the  town  charge  about  thirty  years  ago;  th.it  he  has  never 
known  the  said  house  to  be  called  a  fraternity  or  that  it  had 
ever  belonged  to  any  fraternity :  that  he  never  knew  any  master 
bretheren  or  fellows  of  any  fraternity  there,  but  that  about  40 
years  since  "  oiie  Jiohne  Bonde  and  William  Chamberlaine  Esq  called 
masters  of  Sl  George's  hall  and  they  were  the  laste ;  and  that  the 
mayor  and  his  bretheren  used  to  appoint  two  masters  of  the  uH 
hall  yearly." 

Robert  Aman,  shoemaker,  aged  80,  deposed  that  lie  had  knowa 
the  said  house  for  40  lycars^  during  ail  which  time  the  chamberlains 
of  the  towo  have  bad  the  use  of  it,  and  that  about  that  time  "ke 
bcingc  one  of  the  Wardens  of  the  Jorncmen  Shoemakers  of  the 
towne  he  and  his  eompanyc  with    the  lyccncc  and  conscntc  of  \if 


i; 


TOWN    PROPERTY.  iSj 

chnmberlnineK  dM  kcape   their  feaste  and  drinktne   in   the  same 

ousc," 

Richard  Wattes,  shoemaker,  aged  54,  deposed  thai  he  had  known 

the  said  house  31  years,  during  which  time    it    had  been  occupied 

for  the  use  oE  the  town,  and   that  he  being   a   journeyman   at  the 

.aforesaid   time    "  did    make    his    repairs    with   others    at    suche 

lyme  as  the   shoemakers  did   make  their  drinkinges  in  the  same 

which  was  fouer  tymes  in  the  yerc  " :  that  lie  hath  heard  say  that 

i^the  house  did  belong  to  the  fraternity  of   St.  George,   and  tliat  it 

^Kras  called  by  the  name  of  St.  George's  Hall,  and  that  there  were 

^fttasters  of  the  same. 

^V      John  Longe,  goldsmith,  aged  60,  depo&ed  that   he   had   known 

the  house  40  years,  during  which  time  it  had  been  occupied  to  the 

use  of  the  town ;  that  one  William  Fishe  (his  father-in-law),  about 

J^^7  years  ago.  told  him  that  he  was  chamberlain  of  the  town,  and 

^^Hd  let  for  hire  unto   sundry  persons    such  utensils,  spits,  vessels, 

jacks,  and  such  like,  which  were  always  kept  in  the  same  house. 

William  Freeman,  chandler,  52,  deposed  that  be  had  known  the 

boiuc  for  33  years,  during   which   time   it   had   been   let   by  the 

mayor  or  chamberlain,  and  bad  been  repaired  at  the  town  charge. 

Thomas  Dixe,  shoemaker,  62,  deposed  that    he    has  known  the 

bouse  called  St.  George's  Hall  40  years,  and  that  he  with  one  John 

RusscI  "  bcin^  wardcyns  of  the  company  of  jomeman  Shoemakers 

I      of    Northampton    after    the    dissolution  of    the    houses  of    Graye 

Friars  and   White   Friars  in   Northampton  by  the  space  of  one 

yerc  aftrr  that  did  travailc  then  with  the  Chamblaines  of  the  townc 

of  Northampton   for  that  tyme  beinge  for  as  muche  as  they  hadd 

no  other  place  to  make  their  acccssc  unto  for  the  makinge  of  their 

drinkinges  and    alsoe  mcetinges    And   did    hire  of   the  said  cham- 

blaines  the  saide  house  called  St.  George's  hall  for  the  cause  before 

alleged  lor  (he  whiche  they  did  paj-c   quartcrlic  three  shillinges  " ; 

that  the   townc  did   greatly  repair  the  said  house  under  one  John 

I,     Baylie ;  and  that  he  never  knew  the  house  to  be  a  fraternity. 

^H      The  commissioners  further  state  that  they  had    brought  before 

^PUmn  ome  Christopher  Ramarde,  some  time  mayor  of  Northampton, 

to  be  examined,  but  his  age,  impotence,  and  weakness  of  wisdom  was 

such  that  he  couldn't  directly  answer  any  of  the   interrogations, 

and  they  thought  it   not   convenient   to  proceed  with  him  for  fear 

til  perjury. 

h  Mr.  Kyrktande  evidently  woo  the  case,  for  io  July  of  the  same 

^^^^^^^^^^^^^ 


i86 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


year  the  freedom  of  the  town  was  conferred  on  him  gratis  because 
of  his  travail  in  the  suit  about  St.   George's  Hall. 

The  terrier  of  tlie  town  property  for  1568  describes  the  houste  in 
Ahington  street,  called  St.  George's  Hall,  as  consisting  of  (8  bays, 
aiid  paying  an  annual  rental  of  53s.  4d.  This  was  by  far  the 
largest  house  and  paying  llie  highest  rental  of  any  possessed  b)' 
the  corporation.  The  nearest  to  it  in  size  was  a  house  of  9  bays 
close  to  the  town  dyke,  by  the  west  g.ite,  .ind  which  payed  a  rental 
of  36s,  8d. 

A  lower  portion  of  St.  George's  Hall  was  used  by  the  town  in  1621 
as  a  bridewell  or  house  of  rorrertion,  but  thi.i  was  only  for  a  short  time. 

In  c66ii  the  chamberlain  was  instructed  to  make  an  entry  upon 
"  the  house  and  land  called  St.  George's  Hall,"  late  in  Mr.  Gilford's 
possession,  for  non-payment  of  rent. 

The  remains  of  St-  George's  Hall,  which  by  thai  time  had  no 
doubt  been  almost  altered  beyond  recognition,  finally  disappeared 
in  the  lire  of  i6'j^. 

Markets  and  Fairs. 

Prominent  amongst  town  property  come  the  markets  and  fair», 
because  the  tolls  and  stallage  received  in  connection  with  then 
always  formed  an  important  item  ol  town  revenue.  The  community 
of  Northampton  were  endowed  at  an  early  date  with  fair-holding 
privileges,  und  with  market  rights.  The  great  roads  that  passed 
through  the  town  brought  large  gatherings  to  the  fairs,  and  aided 
in  keeping  up  well-attended  markets. 

The    Chequer  or    Market    square,  and    the   streets   immediately 
adjacent,  such  as  the  Draper}-,  were  the  general  ground  for  stallSi 
which  were  strictly  classiBed  according  to  trades,  and  sites  assigned 
to  each.    On  the  cattle  market  days  the  cattle  were  penned  In  the 
Market  square,  the  sheep  in  Sheep  street,  the  horses  (entire)  io 
the    Horscmarkct,    the  marcs   in   the  Marchold,  and  the  hi^  in 
the  Hogmarket,   on  the  lower  side  of    the  Marchold  (which  has  rf 
late    years    been    ridiculously    corrupted     into    Mayorhold) ;    cocO 
was  dealt  with  on  Comhill,  at  the  upper  side  of  the  Market  square  r 
malt  on  Malthilt,  on  the  cast  side  of  the  square  ;  whilst  wood  for  fue* 
was  sold  to  the  east  of    All    Saints'  churchyard,    a  site  that  stiL^ 
bears  the  name  of  Wood  hill.  ■ 

The    Northampton   market  da>-s,  according    to   the  charter  <^P 
'599.  were  Wednesday,  Friday,  and  Saturday;  and  this  order  »" 
confirmed  by  the  charters  of  1618,  1683,  and  1796. 


TOWN   PROPERTY. 


187 


n    121!^    the    King   i&sued   letters  patent    with    regard   to   the 
regulation  of  "the  fair  of  Nortlianipton."      "The  fairs  of    North- 
ampton "  arc  referred  to  in  the  charter  of  1357.    No  specific  days 
Dor  names  are  given,  nor  their  number,  but  there  must  have  been 
9l  least   two.     By  (he  charter  of    1327   a.   fair   of    the   exceptional 
duration  of  four  weeks  was  granted  to  the  town,  beginning  on  the 
Monday  next  after  the  octave  of  the  Holy  Trinity.    Two  or  three 
deeds,  however,  of  the  time  of  Edward    I.    show   that  there    were 
then  established  at  Northampton  tlic  two  fairs   of   St.  George  the 
Itarlyr   (April  ajrd)  and  of  St.    Hugh    Bishop    (August    9th),   so 
the  long  Trinity  fair   was  an   additional   one    to    the  two  of 
foundation.     The  Trinity  fair  doca  not  seem  to  have  been  of 
daration.      The    charter  of    14(^5  docs   not    mention    it,    but 
;6aitcly  established    those   of   St.   George   and   St.    Hugli.     It   is 
id  down  that  these  two  fairs  shall    begin    on    the   day  preceding 
Saint's  day,  and  shall  be  continued  for  the  six    days  following 
provided    they    were    not   hurtful  to    neighbouring    fairs.       A 
lasting  for  an  octave  was  not  unusual  for  those  of  importance 
L    in  connection  with  our  larger  English  towns. 
^m    The  charter  of  1599  authorised  the  holding  of  seven  fairs  or  marls 
^pVrtlin  ihe  town,  on  the  following  feasts : — St.    George  the  Martyr 
■  (April  23rd  V  St-  Hugh  (Nov.   17th),    the    Nativity   of  the    Blessed 
'     Virpn  (September  8th),    the  Annunciation  of   the  Blessed  Virgin 
(Martli  25ih>.    the    Conception    of   the    Blessed  Virgin  (Dec.  8lhl, 
'he  Assumption  of  the  Blessed  Virgin  (Aug.  15th),    and  St.  James 
'^  Apostle  (July  25th).    Each  fair  was  to  begin  on  the  day  prc- 
Wdmg  and  to  conclude  on  the  day  following  the   feast.      The  fair 
■  St.  James  in  the  prc-reformation  days,  was  one  of  considerable 
""Pwtance  and  value.     It  was  held  at  St.  James'  End  on  the  land 
■niatdiatcly    adjoining    the    west  bridge,    which    belonged   to  the 
ibfcty  of  St.  Jaunes,  and  was  a  frequent  source  of  dispute  bclwecu 
■"•lown  and  the  abbey.      In  EUiabctlian  days  the   town  obtained 
^^lioo  to  maintain    it,  and    it    was    held  on   ground   termed  the 
•^Ws  meadow.     The  charters  of    ifii8  and  1683  confirmed  these 
•wen  lair  days  to   the  town,    the  former,   as   will    be    recollected, 
"laittiag  St.  James'  End  within  the  borough  boundaries. 

We  now  proceed  to  give  the  more  important  of  the  market  and 
*«(  entries  from  the  later  town  records. 

U  was  agreed  by  the  assembly  in    1582   that  the  sheep  pens 
*«t  not  to  stand  forth  so  far  as  heretofore,  but  thai  there  was  to 


i88 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


be  Id"!  on  each  side  of  the  channel  at  least  six  foot  for  passage 
under  pain  of  ten  shillings.  Tins  order  was  re-enacted  in  1585, 
mtb  an  additional  prohibition  against  anyone  setting  up  or  making 
any  sheep  pens  in  any  lane  or  place  whatsovcr,  but  only  from  the 
comer  of  Mr.  Blythc's  house  (in  a  later  hand)  "now  the  signe  of 
the  Redd  Lyon,"  and  Mr.  Burrowes'  house,  "  uppe  directhe  to  St 
Pulchres  Churche." 

The  assembly  in  1594  rehearsed  the  order  of   15S5,  and  deter, 
mined  that  it  should  continue  in  full  force  and  effect  "  joynirg  to 
the  same  that  it    shall  or   maye    be    Ian-full  to  sell    sheep  pennts' 
from  the  corner  of  Mr.  Blythc's  and  Mr.  Wentworth's  house  dow> 
to  Mr.  Reynfforde's  dore  soe  as  there  be  left   for  the   passage  of 
people  a  yardc  and  a  halfe  space  on  either  sydc  of  the  channel 
uppon  payne  in  the  saidc  recited  order    specified   and    expressed" 

This  order  meant  that  an  open  passage  nine  feet  wide  was  to 
l)c  left  in  the  midst  of  the  street.  There  were  then  no  fcot 
paths,  and  the  street  always  sloped  towards  the  middle  of  Ox 
way,  which  wa-<  occupied  by  a  paved  channel. 

In  1655  it  was  resolved  to  see  that  the  old  orders  of  1581  and 
1585  be  better  observed,  and  several  citizens  were  nominated  wto 
should  "  betymes  in  the  morning  of  every  faire  daie  wallce  throogbe 
the  saide  sheepe  markett  and  view  the  said  penns." 

In  1585  the  assembly  ;^reed  that  every  market  day,  diirirgthe 
time  of  the  corn  market,  there  shall  attend  upon  the  mvfOt  W 
oversee  the  market  two  aldermen,  two  bailiffs,  and  two  of  the  forty- 
eight.  Every  one  was  to  be  summoned  in  turn,  the  members  being 
duly  apprised  of  their  turns  by  the  mayor's  serjeant.  Aldenneu 
making;  default,  when  duly  summoned,  were  to  be  fined  6s.  8di 
bailiffs  5s.,  and  forty-eight  men   3s.  4d. 

The  assembly,  iti  1595,  conRrmed  and  revised  the  (olloiting 
ancient  table  of  tolls,  payable  by  those  who  sold  or  bought  atllc 
or  beast  in  the  markets  and  fairs  of  Northampton  (other  than  the 
freemen),  and  instructed  the  bailiffs  to  see  to  their  due  collection:^ 

Evcty  bull,  axe,  coivc,  biillofk,  i»e«>e,  or  mat  ,.        i' 

Every  boarc,  hoj[gc,  sowc.  shote,  and  store  „ r 

A  s«ore  of  sheep 

Ten  »hcep  

Under  tea  and  abov«  live  ibeep...  ...  

Undec  five  sheep  ...         

The  bailiffs  were  ordered  to  give  to  every  buyer  paying  toW  ^ 
above  "  a  token  for  the  many  festing  of  his  bujing  in  i^>cn  rrvajiV.*"" 


4* 


TOWN    PROPERTY. 


189 


same  beistes  an4  cattell."    The  seller  paid  the  Mice  toll  on 
iteiiDj;  the  town. 

A  suit  arose  in  1597.  in  the  court  of  Queen's  Bench,  against 
C'iUiam  Wheeler  and  Robert  Roser,  late  bailiffs  (rf  ihc  town, 
mifhing  the  taking  of  toll  of  bea«s.  The  assembly,  on  September 
iWi,  resolved  to  make  the  raiisr  their  own,  and  authorised  llie 
diunberlain  to  pay  all  the  charges  of  the  bailiff  in  defending  the 
Ifc  and  maintaining  the  ancient  toll-rights  of  Northampton. 
Bbe  1595  table  ot  lolls  was  further  revised  in  i.<}9g: — 

J^Krttj  bull,  MM,  cow,  bulloclw,  mni,  •lore,  o«  w«yiiacl  e»U«  i* 
BrtT7  boare.  hogg,  Mwe  wiihout  kacking   pigt.  ihtMtv,  and  ttoare 

or  weyncd  pigg „         i' 

Ewiy  lowtt  and  plggu «         I* 

ShKpc,  hoggerelb,  and  latim  wc^riwd  cmrie  twvntW     ...        i»  6' 

VeAtt  iwv«iti«  mmI  above  (iftcne ..         ...         ...         ...        ,„        ,,.  j* 

Under  Aftene  and  abore  teniR           ..                     4* 

Ubcler  teone  iuid  abtfv«  fire        3* 

L'MJtr  fiv«  for  avty  she«p«   ...        ,.,        „ ...  1' 

Tbb  table  underwent  another  slight  revision  in  1600,  when  the 
Wl  on  pigs  was  raised  from  Id.  to  id.,  the  ont  half  of  the  seller, 
*«^  the  otiitr  half  of  the  buyer. 

Queen  Elizabeth  died  on  March  24th,  1603.  The  news  speedily 
f^^ched  Northarnpton,  and  the  mayor  made  proclamation  abandoning 
Iw  Lady^day  fair  that  had  just  opened.  I  Jter  on  in  the  year,  at 
*^  end  of  the  bailiffs'  term  of  office,  the  as.'scmbly  voted  them  com- 
Pntmion  because  of  their  loss  of  tolls  on  that  occasion. 

An  order  of  1605  names  Wednesday,  Friday,  and  Saturday  as 
ypcHircc  market  days,  and  also  recites  the  tievcn  fair  days  assigned 
Bthctown  by  the  charter  of  1599-  It  is  interesting  to  note  that  the 
^^usiption  of  our  Lady  (August  [5th}  is  named  as  "  commonlie 
^*ttl  the  first  Ladic  daye  in  harvest,"  and  the  Nativity  of  our  Lady 
^^I*.  8th)  as  "  commonlie  called  ihc  latter  Ladic:  daye  in  harvest." 

ioeach  case  the  fair  was  for  three  days,  including  the  day  before 

the  day  after  the  special  feast.     IE  any  of    tJie   fairs  fell  upon 

ay.  then    ihey  were  to  cease  from  buj'ing,  selling,  or  showing 

kinds  of  wares  or  merchandise  until  the  following  Monday.     Jn 

Cf  that    the  people  might  have  reasonable  time  (or  the  making 

doing   of  sue/,    markets,   it  was  provided  that  the  market  bell 

\to  be  rung  at  twelve,  and  every  person    to  keep  that  hour,  and 

fort. 


190 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


The  tolls  on  callle  and    beasts    were  at   this  time  again 
what  altered.    The  assembly  resolved  that  the  bailiffs,  their  depnf 
servanls,  or  assignes  should 

Hav«  ukc  mi  levjr  In  all  and  Ma^lar  the  Bakes  and   marinu  afomaUc 
and  tales  or  tolage  For  bjojmg  beaaM*  In  fairu  and    tnarlctrU  aforeaaide  aeUk{ 
Ixwelit  cf  tbe  bujrers  and  sellers  tbcteof  as  folowcth.  ihit  a  to  sBfe  lor  arajr  I 
««,  cwrt,  Vull«ck*,  runt,  n«afe,  wajned    c»lfe,   bort,    bof,  aawt.  th**,  thtn, 
wcjtQcd  pi£  bought  and  tolda  one  pennjr  of  good  and   liarfall   manuf   of  En 
for  tb«  lolc  c(  th«  Mni«,  tbe  one  halfe  of  the  buyrr  And  tbe  ntbcr  haKc  d  (bt : 
for    Rams,  ewes,  hoggralls,  wej'ned   lambet,  and   all    tunner  of   ihrcp  b<M|^ 
solde  for  ercrie  lireaile  tigin  peace  of  Uvrfull  Knglitb  moacT,  wfwreitBdtr 
and   above   fiftcne   lixc   pent*,  whore  und^r   (jrrteae  and  above   tenne   tj^t 
where  unkr  tenne  and  above  fjve  foure  peaco.  wbere  under  tyv*  a  balfe  peaf  | 
ererie  ebaep.  the  ocm  baUe  of  all  tbe  tame  Ualea  to  be  taken  of  the  tujtr  aad  | 
other  balfe  ihareof  of  ihe  celler.  And    chAt    the    bujrlyft   for   the   t^e   beiiif 
aenrauots.  deputies,  and  ani^nei,  and  crcrie  of  them  for  and    In    ibe    nime  ii 
Maii>r  Bsylifs  and  Borgesief  ot  the  lowne  of   Nortfijilnpton  afomald*  fball  aall 
lavie   th«   tola  afotasaide   of    vTerie    perjon    refiuing   to   pvf   by    dttttra^vlef  I 
deta^rninK  of  tbe  beastes  aforenide  »ol(le  and  bougkt,  aatil  the  talc  nfiirasiiil  btte. 
tbem  paide. 

[n   this   same  year   (1605)   an  order    was    made   that  no 
occupying  any  stall  should  leave  his  stall  standing  when  the 
was  done ;  but  tliat  be  should  carry  the  same  to  his  house  or  to  bn 
inn  upon  pain  of  for(t:iting  tJie  stall :  but  this  order  was  not  to  Apply 
to  "  suchc  stalls  as  be  rented   to  our  sovcrcigne  Lordc   the  Kin 
and  that  3tandc  fuste  in  the  grounde." 

A  curioufi    enactment   \va£  made  with   rt^ard  to   the  sdb| 
cabbaifcs  in  Northampton  market  in  1644,  in  these  words  ;— 

Wbere(aji)  lb«  Cibbldfcmen  do«  vtry  niacti  annoy  ibe  placea  where  iWr 
staiiil*  averie  mitket  diy  la  tsti  iboir  Rootaa  and  Cabbidgea  apfMMi,  tt  la 
and  ordered  that  whoetoever  hereafter  aha!)  Ktaodinj  In  ante  place  in  the 
towiie  npvn  anie  raartii  lUj  to  wll  anie  Cabbidses  ot  there  Rooms  upon,  and  dac 
Ml  eauM  the  place*  when  their  ttalla  aUnd  U>  be  rlenaed  upon  the  Mn^itj 
taota\ns  la  cvnlo  week  and  the  muck  titcreof  to  he  CAtried  away,  llut  iba  panua 
or  peraoo*  a*  shall  ofiend  herein  shall  forfeit  and  )i*y  xi|d  tor  ererie 
oRenre. 

Tlie  market  and  fair  tolls  on  beast.-<,  and   the   travrn<>c    toll 
which  reference  is  afterwards  made)  wrrc  usually  termed  tlic 
tolls:  they  were  collected  by  the  bailiffs,   or    leased  to   ccrfl 
The  term  small  tolls  t:I>ief1y  applied  to  the  cu^i 
on  the  sale  of  com  on  the  market  hill,  or  upp^:  _  .    _   .... 
Add  of  wood  at  the  lower  tide  of  mtrket,  at  Wood  Hill. 


TOWN    PROPERTY. 


191 


With  regard  to  the  tovn   tribute  on  com,  there  were  some 

ious  and  interesting  customs,  which  were  continued    till    a    late 

e ;  the  toll  xvzs  collected  ii]  kind.      Reference  is  made  in  tlie 

ibrr  Custtimarum  to  a  miller's  stamped  toll  dish,  which  was  the 

^measure  used  by  the  town  miller  as  the   charge  on  each   sack  of 

Boni  that  he  ground    for   the    townsmen.      In    the   same    way,  the 

liaiUffs  or  their  agents  were  accustomed  to  use  a   measure  where- 

itli  they  took  out  a  certain  quantity  of  grain  from    each  sack  of 

II  brought  to  Northampton  market,      This  custom  pre^-ailed  til! 

it  1775,  and  was  distinctly  recollected  by  three   of  the  oldest 

itncsMS  at  the  great  toll  case  of  1S32.      One   of  them  described 

Ike  measure  as  a  bowl,  and  another  as  a  large  basin    that  held  a 

Httlc  more  than  a  quartern.    The  toll  collector  dipped  the  measure 

intatbe  sack,  took  it  out  full,  hut  not  heaped  up,  and  then  emptied  it 

'"intotbag  which  he  carried.     It  also  came  out  in  evidence  that  at 

llut  time  it  was  the  custom  for  the  farmer  to  take  in  his  corn  and 

kate  it  at  the  inn  where  he  put  up,  save  one  sack  which  was  pitched 

a  the  market  and  stood  as  a  sample  for  the  rest,     h  seems  that  this 

toll  in  kind  was  only  exacted  from  the  sample  sack.     When  com 

dealers  began  to  adopt  the  more  convenient  plan  of  a  sample  bag 

iutcad  of  a  sample  sack,  this  toll  in  kind  seems  to  have  died  out. 

TV  first  reference  to  the  Wood  Hill  tolls  is  amon^'  the  orders 

<l  «s»embly  for  1585,  when  it  was  enjoined  that  everyone  bringing 

<ny"noodd,  h.^yc,  strawe,  or  any  other  kynde   of  fewell    on   the 

Wood  Hill  to  sell,  shall  pay  a  pennye  for  every   carte    loade  that 

^  shall  offer  to  be  sold  to  Hodgskyns  the  Bellman." 

In  1672,  Robert  Coles,  huckster,  who  formerly  took  the  Wood  Hill 
*"'ll.  vx  forth  in  a  petite  actc  the  assembly  that  on  market  days  the 
"•M  is  filled  with  carriages  of  wood  and  other  fuel,  but  that  the 
BTOund  DO  (he  south  side  adjoining  the  churchyard  wall  of  All 
S*i«8  stands  void,  and  asked  leave  to  use  that  space  for  carts 
**ca  the  hill  was  full.  The  assembly  granted  his  prayer  on  con. 
■Iitioo  t)i>t  Coles  kept  the  void  space  paved  and  clean  from  dirt, 
**^  kept  the  same  way  clear  from  carts  and  block  on  all  other 
•"^ritci  days. 

K  WIS  ordered  in  1689  that  John  Eiborough,  the  late  crier, 
'tojve  the  Wood  Hil!  toll  every  other  week  gratis,  he  keeping 
t*e  unie  dean  and  in  good  repair;  and  that  John  Pendleton,  hall- 
•«pcr,  receive  the  toll  on  the  alternate  week,  he  paying  50s.  for 
™t  Baate  per  annum,  and  keeping  it  clean  and  in  good  repair ;  and 


r9a 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


that  the  rent  of  505.  be  paid  to  John  Ouockley  towards  the  luppott 
of  him  and  his  family. 

OtJier  rcfcrcoces  to  the  Wood  Hill  tolls  will  be  found  aodrr  Ibe 
accounts  of  the  bellmen,  beadles,  sextoos,  and  scrjcanta,  to  wfm 
these  tolls  were  Mmetimcs  assigned. 

It  was  ordered  by  the  court  of  aldermen,  in  1696,  that  lluw 
who  sold  roolA  in  the  women's  market  should  be  removed  into  lb 
ancieDt  place  against  the  Meroers'  Row,  "  from  John  Sphn|£^ 
comer  downe  to  the  Common  Pump  there."  The  mayor  ws 
desired,  as  clerk  of  the  market,  to  forthwith  enforce  this  rerooTi 


» 


Tbe  women's  market  was  then  tield   in  an  open  space  al 
west  front  of  All  Saints'  cliurch.    This  was  before  the  portico  «x 
built. 

On  February  5th,  1 702,  it  was  ordered  by  tbe  mayor  and  aWef* 
men  that  any  person  riding  a  horse  on  the  gravelled  part  of  tk 
Market  hill  to  pace  or  make  a  show  of  him.  tending  to  spoil  tht 
said  hill,  shall  foKeii  to  the  mayor  for  each  offence  izd.  MickM 
the  offender  refuse  to  pay,  he  was  to  be  pro&ecuted  for  a  cauan 
nuisance- 

In  1729  George  Oambcll.  mason,  entered  Joto  a  contract  vilh 
Uie  corporation  for  the  rep-iir  of  "the  upper  part  of  the  mariui 
hill  knouts  by  the  name  of  the  Wheat  Hill." 

The  cliarter  of  (796  assigns  nine  fair  days  to  tbe  town,  ead 
of  them  really  for  three  days,  as  in  previous  charters.  The  days 
named  are  February  20th,  April  5th,  May  4tb,  June  )0h,  AngBtil 
5th,  August  26tb,  September  19th,  November  38lh,  and  Dcceraber 
19th.  It  will  be  noted  that  these  nine  days  include  the  seven  eU 
feast  days  of  the  Church  mentioned  as  fair  days  in  the  tSfft 
charter,  but  adhering  to  the  old  style,  and  paying  no  alLentton  to 
the  rcctiticalion  of  our  caleadar  in  1753,  when  eleven  days  were 
left  out  Thus  April  5th  is  old  Lady-day,  and  May  4th  old  Sl 
George's  day.  The  two  new  dates  were  February  20th  and  June 
19th,  introduced,  we  suppose,  to  fill  up  gapSj  and  not  celebrating 
any  particular  event  sacred  or  profane. 

In  l&i:2  the  chamberlain's  accounts  include  an  entry  at  £fy  1^ 

3d.  for  "pulling  down  sockets  for  posts  in  order  to  preser^*e  an 
unifiternipted  carriage  way  on  tJie  west  side  the  Market  place  on 
Saturdays." 


TOWS    PROPERTY. 


193 


The  Market  Cross,  WEtCHTS  and  Measurks. 

In  the  centre  of  the  market  place  or  open  square  of  the  towns 

of  Christendom    there  always    stood   a    market    cross.     Origbally 

txAhing  more  than  a  lofty  carved  cross  or  crucifix  of  stone,  standing 

OB  a  base  of  circular  steps  as  an  incentive  to  Chri&tian  trading,  it 

generally  gave  way  to  a  more  or  less  pretentious  building,  usually 

open  at    the   sides,  and  suited    in    various   ways    as   a  centre  for 

niarWct    convcnictKcs.      Such    a    building    generally    retained    the 

ume  of  the  Market  Cross,     (l  was  the  precursor  of  all  subsequent 

covrred  market  halls. 

Mention  is  made  of  tlic  market  cross  of  Northampton  in  several 
fourteenth  and  lifteenth  century  deeds.      It    is   not  known  whether 
Ihc  cross  in  the  centre  of  the  market  square    was    then    anything 
more  than    a.  central  cross,  but   a    large   and    imposing   structure 
.«s  erected   there   in    1535.   whicli   bore  the  title  of  the  market 
An  illustration  of  this  old  market  cross,    enlarged  from  a 
il  drawing  in  Dash's  copy  o(    Bridges'  Nori/iamfitonsMire.   in 
British  Museum,  appeared  a  few  years  ago  in  Northamptomhire 
'ties  end  Queries;  but  this  drawing,  in  common  with  other  supposed 
of  the  town  before  the  fire,  is  clearly  imaginar>".     The  follow- 
ing detailed  account  of  the  building  is  taken  from  Lee's  MSS. :-- 

h  )»•  »t*  7«are  d  y*  Reigne   ef    King   Htnry   8*   Anno    Dol    1535,  Ijiurcricc 

KuIT  Mayor,  wu    the  Cruu   In   the    Maikctt    PUc«    made,   there    were   8  t.-uge 

•em  wit  is  tbe  Ground  kb'  3  feet  high  cutt  and  cjirvcd,  knd  upon  them  8   Urge 

V.ir:*  ot  Timber  with  curved  Work  upon  tbeni.  They  did  bear  up  y*  Roof,  and  j* 

laiam  [r»(ii  on*  Pilkr  10  tbe  neat  ptllcrwas  archod  and  carved.    In  y*  mJddle  w4»  3 

i^  (■  rounds  of  Stona  10  9it  upun,  unA  to  go  up  from   yv   tniddl*  of    f  Cron 

"  >  «4U  paire  of  itaires  into  the  Lanihornc  or  little  Chamber  whcrt  were  lodged 

''^•rkm  Sitilc*  and  other  UteaMlU  b«tonging  10  j*  Msricett.  and  a  doore  at  y*  foot 

r&Mi  loTltt  up  from  MatkKtt  lo  Markcii.    The  whole  Crou  was  corored  all  orer 

^'■■aii  and  y*  Lanthorne  vrell  glased   and    lititc   Posts    from   evajr   square   alt 

>*Tv!«tik  Lead  and  Ap«!>  at  y*  Tops  ot  them  uith  litiii*  Iron  Rod*  In  their  hands 

'"  '*»  «•  jr*  Tops  of  ihem.    The  Conipajs  cif  y*  CtoM  was  so  targe  >"'  Iwiwenc 

-•  laaiav  and  j»  ouimd»  of  y*  eroa  where    Baliclment*    were  built    I    ha»-e 

■*  Vta  n!k  Kitnl  timex    The  whole  wii  MMiuuiand  tieautiSed  with  branches 

'"'•Mt  v^rm  ill  iquarc*  little  piuceli  oi  Ictil   like  coatx  of    acmx    guilt,  and  a 

P*^vtaai  to  J'  pl»«, 

-,          'tiht  t)tt  fire  the  site  of  the  old  market  cross  remained  vacant 
fj  *  ^        Wu  i-jii,  v.Wn  it  was  occupied   by   a  meaningless  and    useless 
jj  -^        fcteittunute  cAlled  the  Obelisk.     It  was  found  to  be  very  incon- 
jiW*r       '^'oi,  aul  vras  taken  down  in  1806  to  make   way  for  a  pump. 
-  Q 


194 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


In  1826  the   pump  was   removed,   and  gave   place  to  a  Urgt  pi 
lamp. 

As  to  the  totrn  weights  and  measures,  tliere  are  abundaot 
references  in  the  first  volume  of  this  nt>rk  to  the  importaaoe 
attached  to  these  being  standard  and  true  (pp.  376,  Jiq.  323,  p], 
373'  375j  37'5)-  Reference  has  also  been  made  to  them  wla 
considering  the  position  of  Xorthampton's  mayor  as  cleric  of  the 
market.  From  the  early  days  when  that  privilege  f^'as  conferred 
on  the  mayor,  the  town  would  possess  standard  weights,  etc.,  a( 
its  own,  and  would  not  be  dependent  on  those  carried  about  ij 
the  king's  clerk  of  the  ni&rkct  or  his  deputies.  Morem'cr,  kj 
the  elaborate  sUtute  on  this  subject  of  1 1  Henry  VIL,  c^  |, 
every  city,  borough,  and  town  were  bound  to  provide  them?ieltw 
"witb  a  common  balance  with  common  weyghtes  and  comnaa 
measures  marked  according  to  the  standard  of  the  excbeker" 
In  the  schedule  to  the  act  Northampton  is  named  as  the  town  fm 
the  safe  cuslody  of   the  standards  for  the  whole  shire 

With  regard  to  the  standard  weights  and  measures  that  u.-tcd  to 
be  kept  in  Ibe  lantern  of  the  market  crosi,  it  may  be  remarked  thai 
owing  doubtless  to  their  fret|ucnt  renewal,  consequent  upon  !  ~ 
statutes,  Very  few  old  examples  remain;  Cambridge,  Dci.^.,  ....- 
Lancaster  are  exceptions.  The  laiit  of  thcte  three  boroughs  hu 
Elizabethan  examples  of  the  same  date  and  pattern  as  tbe  valttablc 
and  interesting  ones  that  arc  now  in  the  Xorthampton  Musenm 

There  axe  in  tlie  towni  museum  (our  weights— of  56  poumU,  iS 
pounds,  14  pounds,  and  7  pound.'i  rc-«pfctivcly— all  marked  nith  a 
crown  and  EL.  for  Elizabeth,  and  bearing  the  A.D.  date  of  isSS.  aad 
the  regnal  year  XNN. 

There  are  also  two  Elizabethan  measures,  The  largest  i^  ft 
handsome  circular  bushel  (the  "  market  strike  "  of  Lee's  MSS.)  d 
heavy  bronze  or  bell  metal,  ift.  m  depth,  and  ift.  fm.  in  cJiiuncter, 
with  the  inscriplioa:—"  ELIZABETH  D£l  [a  crowned  rose]  CRACM 
ANGLI,€  [a  crowned  portcullis]  FRANCIA  ET  [a  crowned  )lciir-<ic-Ii»1 
HlBERNIvE  [a  crowned  roscj  RECINA,  ifioi."  (Plate  V.)  The  sccood 
is  a  com  gallon  with  E.R.  under  a  crown,  and  the  further  inscrip- 
tion ELIZABETH  RECIKA,  I601. 

There  is  also  a  mctal-rimmcd  wooden  stam- - '  ■^■■-rt  coni 
measure,  inscribed  CORN  .  CORPORATION  OP  nor:  n.  fjji. 

A  bronze  quart  and  a  bronze  pint  measure  are  both  stamped  oa 
tbe  edge  of  the  rim  with  W.R.  untler  a  crown,  temfi.  William  111. 


TOWN    PROI»ERTV. 


'95 


A  aclt  of  Come  Measures"  was  purchased  by  the  town  in  r6fM. 
a.  cost  of  Qs.  tod.,  of  which  the  two  last-nained  are  doubtless  part. 
1750    "  a  pair  of  large  Scales   for  Ihc  use  of  the  Corporation  " 
ra^    bought  for  7S-,  brass  weights  to   be    used  therewith  for  12s., 
beams  for  the  scales  ior  75.  6d. 
Before  the  fire,  a  bell  hung  in  the  lantern  of  the  market  cross, 
be    used  for   oil  market  purposes.      ATtcr^'ards    tlie  handbell  of 
crier  seeins  lo  have  sufficed. 

It  was  ^reed  in  1641  that  the  market  b«ll  should   ring  at  13 
k'clock  every  market  day,  and  if  the  bell   was  not   rung  that  it 
lawful  for  any    man    to   sell    his   com  at  that  hour.      It    was 
irther  ordered  that  the  countr>'  should  have  notice  of  this  resolution 
the  bellman  on  four  or  five  consecutive  market  days. 

The  Pillokv,  Tumbrel,  and  Stocks. 

I'he  keeping  of  the  assize  of  bread,   wine  and   beer,  and  the 

krrcction  and  punishment  o(  the  same  was  secured  as  a  chartered 

ivilegc  to  the  mayor  in  1385.  though  in  all  probability  that  right 

b4:en  exercised   for  a   long   time  before  that  date     Tlie  old 

judgment   of  the   pillory  and   tumbrel,    according  to  the   use  of 

[Northampton,  has  been  given  in  detail  in  the  previous  volume  (pp. 

}14-33i;.     A  tumbrel  veas  originally  a  clumsy  farm  cart,  with  solid 

'wooden  wheels,  used  for  tlic  conveying  of  dung,  and  hence  it  came 

to  be  used  (or  the  wheeled  ducking  stool  on  which  an  offender  was 

strapped  10  the  market  place,  and  tlience  wheeled  off  to  the  nearest 

stream,   river,  or    pond  of   sufficient    depth.     The  common    notion 

that  a  ducking  9I00I  was  intended  for  scolding  women  is  altogrther 

erroneous ;  the  tumbrel  or  ducking  stool  was  occasionally  thus  used 

ib  l.itcr  times,  but  the  mediaeval  punishment  for  the  abusive  woman 

was  tbc  scold's  iron  bridle,    the  tumbrel  being  kepi  for  those  who 

persisted  tn  giving  false  measure  or  inferior  quality  of  beer  or  wine. 

Poeaibly  our  forefathers   thought  there  was  a  Htness  in  assigning 

tbis   rude  water  punishment   to  the  offending  dealers   in   liquor. 

The  baker,  butcher,  ox  cook  who  swindled  his  customers  was,  on 

the  contrary,  condemned  to  the  pillory. 

The  roughness  and  cruelty  of  both  these  punishments  is  sutfi- 
ciently  obvioui^,  when  we  find  tliat  one  of  the  duties  of  the 
Northampton  market  jury  was  the  annual  inquiry  whether  l>oth 
tutnbrcl  ami  pillory  were  strong  and  well  repaired,  so  that  if  any 
man  or  woman   was  condemned   thereto    they    might    lose  neither 

O  2 


196 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUCU  RECORDS. 


life  nor  limb.    Thtji  inquiry  was  to  be  made   in  accordsnce 
the  statute  of  the  pillory  and  tumbrel  (51  Henry  III.) 

In  the  t^outh-east  comer  of  the  marlcet  square,  almost  in  Ireef 
of  the  f^Kil  conduit,  and  not  far  from  llie  f^nildhall,  stood  the 
Northampton  pillorj*.  It  would  consist  of  a  wooden  erection  otilb 
holes  for  the  head  and  hands,  and  would  probably  be  raised  on 
steps  or  a  platform  of  stone.  It  would  also  serve  3»  the  public 
whipping  post,  and  would  have  handcuffs  specially  arranj^  fa< 
that  purpose. 

Among  the  Acts  of  the  Privy  Council,  under  date  Janiuiy 
28th,  1551-2,  is  the  following  relative  to  a  seditious  song  hy  i 
townsman  of  Northampton: — "A  lettre  to  Nicholas  Rande,  Maj-cw 
of  North.^I^pton,  and  Fr.iunces  Morgan,  to  examine  whether  ifce 
song  that  they  have  enforincd  was  sung  by  William  Tonfon  «rv 
of  his  own  making,  and  in  caase  it  be  »o  found,  to  cause  bun  to 
be  set  on  the  Pillorie  and  cause  both  his  eares  to  be  cut  off .  and 
in  case  the  same  song  sludl  appeare  to  be  of  otherx  doing,  ihm 
send  the  sayd  Tomson  up  hither  to  be  farther  examined" 

In  1612  the  assembly  ordered  that  the  pavemenl  from  the  pilli 
to  the  market  cross  be  repaired  at  the  town  charge. 

In  1733,  and  again  in  1737,  there  is  a  charge  in  the  cbuni 
Iain's  accounts  of  6d.  "  for  cleansingc  the  Pillory,"  This  wouH 
doubtless  be  requisite  after  some  unhappy  offender  had  been  peltel 
with  the  market  rubbish  and  oFfal.  In  1747  a  shilling  vrna  pail 
"  for  mending  the  handcuffs  of  the  pillory  and  lor  putting  thetn  oil* 

In  the  small  picture  of  the  market  place,  forming  one  of  a  wri« 
of  views  round  "  The  South  West  Prospect  of  Northampton.' 
published  in  [754  a  small  «et  of  stocks,  pillory,  and  vrhipptag 
post  combined  in  one,  is  shown  at  the  south-east  angle  al  the 
square. 

The  Northampton  market  place  pillory  was  aaeA  at  exceptionally 
hue  dates,  namely,  00  March  33rd,  181 1,  and  on  April  33rd.  1814; 
on  each  occasion  for  ofTenders  against  decency. 

The  town  stocks  also  stood  in  the  market  place.      In  1634 
read   that  John   Daniel,  a   tou-n  constable,  set  "one  of  y  Kine* 
Guard  in  y*  stocks  of  y*  Town  which  cost  him  £^,  imprison 
of  office,  and  otiier  trouble,  and  the  stocks  burnt  on  the  Co:...i... 

Usuiilly,  where  there  was  a  pillory,  stocks  (onncd  part  of  the 
same  structure,  or  at  all  events  stood  on  the  same  pUtfonn. 
Probably  this  arrangement  was  iotemiplcd   at  Northampton  after 


nesj 


TOWN    PROPERTY. 


"97 


old  stocks  were  burnt  in  1634,  apparently  by  infuriated 
ildicrs  At  all  events,  in  1675,  and  oa  thrt-c  or  four  subsequent 
ccasions,  entries  are  met  with  of  labourers  being  paid  for 
moving"  or  "removing"  the  stocks.  From  this,  wc  suppose 
lat  tliey  vrerc,  at  one  time,  specially  erected  when  required,  being 
irouglil  out  from  &omc  receptacle  in  the  (juildhall  or  gaol  At 
jorbjr,  ID  this  county,  there  are  still  a  set  of  moveable  stocks. 
i  9et  of  stocks  uii  low  iv'heels  Is  now  preserved  at  the  parish 
of  Shorcdiich. 


The  Traverse  Tolls. 

far  niorr  lucrative  and  cxrcpttooal  source  of  revenue  to  the 
Own  of  Northampton  than  Lhe  market  aud  fair  tolls  were  the 
raversc  or  passaffe  tolls,  which  were  attcicnl  dues  chatted  on  beasts 
Dtl  burdens  pasi^ing  through  or  entering  the  town. 

'lite  origin  of  such  a  toll  is  easy  to  understand.  Right  through 
te  ceotre  of  Northamptoo,  aorth  and  south,  and  east  and  west, 
ko  two  main  roads,  king's  highway:! ;  the  one  from  south  to  north 
cing  Uie  moiit  important  route  from  London  to  the  northern  towns 
nd  districts,  and  therefore  of  primar>'  importance.  These  roads 
ad  to  be  kept  in  substantial  repair  right  tliroi^h  the  liberties  of 
le  townsmen  of  XorUiamplon,  being  paved  throughout  when  with- 
%  the  town  walls.  *1'his  must  have  been  a  constant  source  of 
xpcnse  to  the  inhabitants.  Moreover,  Northampton  was  a  town 
n  the  royal  dcmosnt:.  and  as  such  had  to  pay  to  the  crown  or  its 
sa^ns  an  annual  U-c-laiui  rental,  which  was  very  hca^y  in  the 
uiier  days,  according  to  the  then  value  of  money.  It  was  not 
musoal  in  such  cases,  for  the  crou-n  to  grant  to  royal  demesne 
owns  tertain  special  prix-ileges  as  a  sort  of  sct-o(T  to  the  rental. 
U  Nortl»ampton  this  privilege  took  the  form  of  a  traverse  or 
ossagc  toll, 

lltcre  seems  no  manner  of  reason  to  doubt  that  tliis  traverse 
jU  was  an  accomplished  custom  even  before  the  first  of  the  town 
harten.  At  all  events  it  was  thoroughly  well  established  as  early 
s  1374-  The  most  interesting  of  all  the  early  records  pertaining 
»  the  to*n  of  Northampton  is  the  very  full  result  of  llie  great 
lujoisition  held  thai  year,  which  is  given  at  the  head  of  the 
lundrcd  Rolls  for  Ihc  county  of  Xorlhampton,  The  objecl  of  the 
liquitj'  was  to  certify  in  each  county  as  (o  the  demesne  manors 
ic  king  had  in  his  hands ;  by  what  warrant  alienated  manors  were 


198 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RFXORDS. 


held:  of  suits,  ancient  customs,  services,  etc.,  withdrawn  from  the 
Icing  or  his  ancestors;    and    of    liberties    granted    which    impeded 
common  justice,   or  subverted  the  kind's  power. 
The  roll,  rendered  in  English,  opens  as  follows  :— 

Tewn  of  NaTiham^oK,  An  in<]iiii-itian  mxi»  ht  Norlbftrnpton  by  tw«lv«  ]u(«n 
of  thp  same  town,  in  the  tbird  x^^''  ^^  ^^  >«■£■>  of  King  Edward  bofore  the  Lordi 
Williiirn  dc  Si.  Omet  and  Warin  de  Chaucombe,  juKioes  of  the  lord  ttw  Kiflf.  to 
lint,  bjr  Roger  de  St.  Manin,  Henry  AtM  Cst«,  Jordan  l«  Ch«m,  Latirance  da 
Bollofi.  0»hcn  dc  Crouthrop.  GeofTrcy  Ac  Orerston,  Ad.im  dc  Cordcr.  Thonut  dc 
Pippewell,  FUlph  dc  1'horp,  Robert  Keylmera,  Willikm  de  la  Siiri«|^«n,  and  John 
de  Campden,  who  ay  upon  their  oaih  [under  the  head  o(  "  Ancient  Suits,  CustQou. 
and   SerrJcesa  *']  I— 

That  Simon  de  BrycDeorell,  Bailtit  of  the  Lord  Bdorinl,  EmI  of  CorawiIL 
in    Che    Kiii|{'i    HiKhH-ajr    which    is    called     S.iltalreie    end    the    Lord    Roxer    de 

Wanton,    at     th«     Brid^;*    of    Blninj^.    hjive     withdrawn    from    th«    King     sod    the 

BailiRt  of  Nortb.-implon,  now  by  four  rears  the  Cuuomi  and  Toll*  which  lbs  Lord 
the  Kin£  and  his  BaiUS<i  of  Northunpton,  m  alt  times  tkert  have  beea  accutOCMd 
to  receive  and  haw*;  and  which  CtiJitfttns  and  Tolls  they  have  so  appropriated  to 
lhem!>elv«3,  by  what  warrani  ihcy  know  not,  to  the  dama^  of  the  Lord  the  Kiot 
»nd  hi:k  Bailiff*  oF    Northampton  by  the  year  of  half  a  mark  and  upward*. 

AUo  Ihcy  lay,  thai  the  men  of  Simon  FtU  Henty.  of  Hastings,  trading  in  the  town 
of  Northampton,  arc  accuatomed  at  all  times  to  give  TolU  for  their  mcrchandiae*  aold 
and  bouj;ht  In  the  same,  and  which  Toll,  by  advowiy  oi  the  bause  of  Hnntingdotk, 
now  by  neven  yearA  they  have  withdrawn  from  the  King  and  Cummunalty  of  the 
town  of  Notlhampton,  by  what  warrant  thuy  know  not,  to  the  damage  of  the  Lord 
the  King  and  the  whole  Commnnaliy  of  thp  Icwn,  tK'eniy  shillingg  and  upwarda. 

Also  they  say  thai  Henry  Pontcys  of  Jaice»]ce,  avowing  himself  a  man  of  the 
Master  of  the  Hospital  of  Oyngele,  now  by  y«ar»  hath  withdrawn  his  Toll,  wbicb 
he  was  accuitoiaod  tu  give  for  his  merchsndUcs  bought  and  lold  in  Nonhamploa, 
by  what  warrant  Ihcy  know  not,  to  the  damage  of  the  Lord  Ibe  King  smI  hi! 
Bailiffs  in  Northampton,  by  Che  year  aos. 

Also  they  say,  that  the  m<n  o(  L-aurenoe  de  Preatoo  have  withdrawn  which  ibey 
have  been  accustomed  te  give  in  Northampton  avowin]*  thvRiMlvet  to  be  of  tbe 
honour  of  Hiintingdon  to  wit,  the  men  of  Preston,  Woocton,  and  6i Hinge,  by  wbal 
warrant  Ibey  know  n4t,  to  the  damage  of  the  Lord  Ibe  King  and  the  BailiCb  ef 
NonhamptOQ  of  half  a  mark  and  upwards  by  the  year. 

In  the  great  toll  case  of  J831.  to  which  further  reference  will 
shortly  be  made,  these  extracts  from  the  Hundred  Rolls  were  more 
fully  discussed  and  wrangled  about  by  the  leading  counsel  on  each 
side,  as  well  as  by  the  Lord  Chief  Justice,  than  all  the  tMher 
numerous  old  documents  that  were  cited.  In  ^ct  tbe  judge's 
supposed  misinterpretation  of  these  extracts  was  made  one  of  the 
chief  grounds  for  an  appeal.  We  venture,  however,  to  say,  that 
although  much  ingenuity  Avas  displayed  in  giving  a  diversity  of  io- 


TOWN    PROPERTY. 


t99 


terprctations.  that  no  one  arrived  at  the  true  and  simple  solution, 
irhich  is  quite  obvious  when  compared  with  other  documents  of  a 
like  character. 

The  word  Ihcrt  {ibidem  in  the  Latin]  in  the  midst  of  the  firet 
paraf^aph  of  the  jury's  findings,  refers  to  the  two  places  outside 
Northampton  on  the  east  side,  where  tlie  bailiiFs  of  Northampton 
htii  been  accuiitomed  to  gather  the  traverse  tolls  from  laden  carts 
ud  park-horsea. 

Where  traverse  tolls  had  been  estibUshed,  it  was  customary  in 
eariy  days  to  fix  upon  toU-gathcrIng  points  at  some  distance  from 
ihe  town,  with  the  double  view  of  .ivoiding  confusion  with  the 
locaJ  tr.iRic  of  freemen,  which  would  probably  have  been  the  case 
if  the  tolls  had  been  collected  at  the  ton'n  gates  or  in  the  town 
it5elf:  and  of  preventing  the  evasion  of  the  toll  by  turning  aside 
on  tracks  through  the  open  country,  so  as  to  pass  round  the  town 
instead  of  through  it. 

A  great  deal  was  said  at  the  trial  as  to  the  position  of  Salte 
Strcte.  which  it  was  as.sumed  must  have  been  a  name  of  a  street 
in  the  town.  But  the  fact  is  that  the  name  Salt  Street  was  frcqLcntly 
given  to  the  main  thoroughfare  leading  to  towns  of  importance 
o\'er  which  the  loads  of  salt  were  carried, 

Salt  production  was  for  several  centuries  one  of  the  chief 
occupations  in  England.  It  certainly  came  next  to  agriculture  and 
fishing.  At  the  Domesday  Survey  mention  is  made  in  six  shires 
of  737  salt  works,  each  paying  rent  to  their  lord.  In  English 
nedisval  economy,  salt  was  far  more  of  an  essential  than  at  the 
present  day.  It  was  used  in  small  quantities  for  dair}',  culinary, 
and  several  manufacturing  purposes,  but  chiefly  as  a  preservation 
for  ti»e  curing  of  provisions.  The  complete  absence  of  fresh  winter 
food  for  cattle,  and  the  impossibility  of  maintaining  the  summer 
stock  of  sheep  and  swine  through  the  winter  months,  led  to  the 
practice  of  killing  off  large  quantities  of  beasts  and  sheep,  as  U'ell 
as  pigs,  about  Martinmas,  and  salting  them  donm  for  winter  use. 
The  same  was  done  in  the  royal  forests,  the  accounts  of  which, 
whenever  preserved,  always  make  mention  of  the  salt  provided, 
and  the  great  larders  built  (or  the  storage  of  the  autumn  killed 
^bentson.  Salt  from  brine  springs  was  but  tittle  used  in  these  parts, 
^Bt  was  carried  hither  from  the  nearest  sea  coast.  After  the  Norman 
InMqaest,  salt  was  manufactured  in  great  abundance  by  evapo> 
ration  in  shallow   pans  on  our  eastern   sea  coast.     The  salt  for 


200 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


Northampton  would  doubtless  come  through  Peterborough  from  the 
Wash,  and  would  reach  the  town  by  way  of  Wellingborough,  so  that 
it  may  safely  be  assumed  that  Salt  Street  was  but  another  oaioe 
for  that  which  is  now  known  as  the  Wellingborough  Road.  It  is 
hardly  necessary  to  say  that  the  word  street  then  meant  merely  a 
strata  in'a,  and  was  just  as  applicable  to  an  artifically  made  road 
in  the  country,  as  to  a  paved  one  in  the  town,  ll  may  further  be 
remarked  that  salt  was  even  a  greater  essential  in  Northampton 
than  in  the  majority  of  other  towns,  because  of  the  large  amount 
of  beasts  brought  to  its  market,  and  of  its  great  and  ancient 
industry  in  connect  ion  with  the  turning  trf  hides  into  leather. 
There  was  a  trading  fraternity  of  the  saltcrs  of  Northampton 
from  the  earliest  days. 

The  jury,  then,  at  this  inquisition  of  1275,  declared  that  the 
bailiffs  of  the  Earl  of  Cornwall  and  of  Lord  Roger  de  Wanton 
had,  for  the  last  four  years,  collected  the  Northampton  traverse 
tolls  for  their  own  lords,  at  two  stations,  namely,  a  certain  pUce 
on  the  Salt  Street  and  at  Billing  Bridge,  where  the  bailiffs  o( 
Northampton  had  prci'iously  placed  their  agents  for  a  like  purpose. 
The  other  three  findings  of  the  jury  just  quoted,  establish  the 
general  custom  of  these  tolls  through  complaint  being  made  oi 
illegal  evasion. 

In  the  fir.st  volume  (p.  62)  a  transcript  is  given  of  the  present- 
ment of  a  \uty  under  pleas  of  the  crown  held  at  Northampton  io 
1330.  On  that  occasion  complaint  was  made  thai  the  bailiffs  of 
Northampton  were  collecting  traverse  tolls  of  one  penny  fraoi 
every  cart-load  of  wool,  wax,  or  other  merchandise,  and  a  farthing; 
for  cvcr>-  horsc-load  at  Slipton,  a  township  fifteen  miles  (rora 
Norlliamptoii,  and  on  the  Wclliiighorough  side  of  Thrapstoo.  The 
objection  raised  to  this  procedure  was,  that  by  collecting  tolls  at 
this  place  carts  and  laden  horses  passing  to  Rothwcll  and  Leicester 
or  elsewhere  to  the  north,  were  here  intercepted  and  made  to  pay  the 
Northampton  toll.  The  bailiffs  ajid  others  of  the  towo  of  North- 
ampton  declared  that  the  toll  pertained  to  the  fee-farm  of 
Northampton,  and  that  it  was  collected  at  Slipton  as  long  ago  as 
the  time  of  Henry  III.  It  was  ordered  that  the  bailiffs  were  only 
to  take  toll  there  from  those  who  were  avoiding  the  town  of 
Northampton  with  intent  to  evade  the  customary  toll. 

More  than  a  cpntury  after  this  date,  there  were  three  customary 
places  some  distance  from  Northampton  at  which  this  traverse  toll 


TOWN    PROPERTV. 


aoi 


was  collected,  as  app<;ars  from  the  Liber  Custumarum,  viz. : — Billing 
Bridge,  about  four  miles  east  from  Northamplcm  ;  Syresham  Cross; 
lothc  south,  about  three  wiles  out  of  Rracklcy,  with  which  borough 
diere  was  great  commerce  in  w-ool ;  and  Slipton*.  near  Thrapston, 
wkidi  has  just  been  mentioned. 

At  a  later  period,  apparently  in  the  time  of  Eliiabcth,  the  habit 
nt  collecting  (he  traverse  toll  at  distant  points  ceased,  and  the 
<l«s  were  gathered  on  entering  the  town  or  even  in  the  town 
itidf.  la  the  old  days  the  bailiffs'  agents  at  the  distant  points 
.  py^  tokens  to  those  who  paid,  which  were  delivered  up  at  the 
borough  gates.  The  first  reference  that  we  find  to  these  tolls,  in 
the  liter  records  of  the  town,  is  an  order  of  assembly  passed  on 
June  Ttli.   158^,  which  runs  as  follows: — 

Farxnnocha  »»  oS  L*t«  yt*it»  it  halhc  ben  accuatomcd  b^  those  which  have  b«n 

■  lae  lajtyrm  of  tlic  Kiide  Towne  of   Nonhjinpton  to  L«1t  lh«   Tele  of    passengers 

,  inlb  packc-honcs,  Cutcs  W.ixna,  aitd  auche   Ij-ke  to  one .  .  .  Htny*  of  Kings- 

'tkra^p«  and  oth«n  cf  Kin^hroppc  utorv»t<le  whA  Havg    net  only  uicJ  to  esacte 

Tale  of  tbe  Frcmeu  of  the  Mide  Tuwn    ol    Nonhiimplim    but   «I»o  uccuttonicd   to 

ukie  lad  pitfacr  tbe  ui<l  Tola  at  Kini-iihmppc  »{«reKLide  oute  of  iho   Liborlioi    of 

tile  saide  Town*  of  Nortlumptan,  For  rvformalion   wheretif   it   is  at  this  pmnnt 

MMublye  for  ever  citablighcd  ih.il  no  freeman  *h»\\  hnvc  at  any  lyme  hcraftcr anye 

Mdie  kinde  of  Tole  exacted  on  him  or  ihem  b^  infc  Bayltfie  or  Bnyljffet  of  th« 

Bnc  Towac  of  Nonbamploa  or  an]rc  other  ixblch  shall   or  niaye    lawtfiilly   rla/mc 

the  prcmisos  by,  Crom  or  under  Ihcnn  or  any  of  thctn  and    that  no   inhabitnnic    of 

tbe  wtiiil  Towne  d  Noilhamiilon  whidi  hereafter  xhalbe  B.iyIy!Te,  or  BayliRes  ot  tbe 

mm»  Towns,  »hdll  let  or  tette  the  siide  kinde  of    Tole  to  any  forreyner  or  others 

^^feeepte  he  or  tbey  be  franchiitrd    In  (ha  taida   Towtie  upon    psyne   of   avaiyit  on* 

^Klurh  ihalbe  BayliRc  oc  Baylifle^  an  is  aforMaida  Making;  d«faullc  of  tbe  contrary 

l«>  vterfe  defanlle,   Fyre  Poundes  to  those  of  tbe  Chamber  of  the  saide  Tovrne   of 

Nonhamplon.     Tbe  Partit!  or  Parties  so  offending  and  Refusinge   to   pays   to    be 

fay  th«  Maiot  for  tbe  tyme  being  comylicd  to  prison  until   he  or   they    shall    pay« 

ibe  sold  penallie  oi  Pyvc  PouikUk, 

For  more  than  a  century  the  town  records  are  quite  silent  with 
rq>ard  to  the»e  tolls ;  the  leases  that  the  bailiffs  entered  into  would 
probably  be  recorded  in  the  missing  books  of  these  officers.  The 
nc3Et  doctimcnt  that  we  meet  with  is  a  well-worn  copy  on  parch- 
ment of  a  toll-lease  for  1715,  which  was  probably  carried  in  tbe 
pocket  of  the  lessee  or  of  his  agent  in  case  of  dispute. 

To  all  whuni  ihete  presents  ihntl  or  may  concern — We  whose  Hands  are  here- 
writien  and  Seals  aflixcd  BiiUiffs  of  the  Corporation  of  Northampton  ia  the 


«  vol.  I,f  f,  tij,  whffv  Slaf^Do  to  an  ohrEwi*  miitak^  in  Uw  csitoau'j  ar  Its  transcHpl,  lor 
B^toB.  SlaptOB  xiu  doac  ta  SjrrtiaiMn,  and  oouN  iiol  poislUjr  have  lietn  Iniendc^  as  one 
'  lk«M  lluM  (All   tutian*. 


303 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


Caiaaty  of  Northampton  Doe  hifebjr  Ictt  and  sett  unio  John  Knott  of  N< 
afofesaid   InnhoMt*  the  Toll   arisinf   tqr   Vfaggoa*  Waiiu   Carta  and    PitdMOtf 
p4fMMg  aod  njMuiftg  lo   snd   from   th*  »*id    Town   cl  Ktxthamptaa   (tlut  i*  M 
say)  for  enqr  Vftggon   Wain  ar    C.trx  that  halb  a    Weight    upo«  thiat  d  iW 
7W  BuifJrtd  Wright  or  upwards  Everjr  such  Wa£S^"  Wain  «t  Can  to  par  W 
tha  nid  John   Knott  or  hU  Ortter  the  Sum  of  Tiro  Penrx  as  ■  pAinof  TAll,Arf 
for  every  Paclihocsc  or  Mayor  (hat  huh  a    Packc  or    Padge   an    hla  er  hci  taA 
that  it  nantied  ta  tbc  *aid    Horse    oi    Mare  (he    Owner  or    Drives    thtttet  ts  j^ 
unio  tlie  Kiiil  Ji>hn  Knott  or  bu  Order  for  cverjr  titrfa  Hon*  or    Matv   fatvinj  at 
Ihua  aocti  Packc  or  Fadge  a  ptaaia£  Toll  «(  P.inliinE   for  Mcb   Hotm  or  Mm* 
aforeaaid.  And  nlso  all  Waggons  Wains  or  Carts  bringing  or  eartTtng  loiad 
tbe    Mtd   Town    aojr    Hurdl««    PImIu    Paggou  Timbar   or  any    otbrr   SgM 
vrrougbt  Goods  Each  Waggon  Wain  «i  Cart  lo  pay  to  lli«  said  John  Knott  m 
Order  in  or  ooi  <it  tlw  said   Town   a    passing  Toll   of   Twopeim   for  «•«; 
Wag^n  Waia  or  Can,  And  likewise  all  Manner  of  Grain  boueh(  in  the  Ten 
b  carried  out  or  through  tbe  Mtd  Town  of    Northampton   or   tmy    W>g{«n  Tik 
or   Can   bringing   any   Charcolet    or   Cotce:*   Ihroueh    the   snid   Town   Enrr  mA 
Waggon  Wain  m  Cut  to  pay  to  the  said  John  Knott  ur  his  ords-  a  p*H<n{  1>> 
of  Tiropettce  And  Itlwmsv  all  Pitt  or  Seaeolet  going  throDgb   and   from  il»  t* 
Town  ea<:h  Waggon  Wain  or  Can  to  pay  tbe  said  Toll  o(  Twupenrc  An^  iioii 
Waggons  Wnins  or  Carts  louden  mth  Wool  or  other   eoct    of    MercKintict  "**- 
ever  brougbl  to   or   travelling   Ihroitgh   the   said   Town  lo   pay   lO   Ibe   siiil  Jobi 
Knott   or  his  order  a  passing  Toll  of  Twopence  for  every  i«cb   Waggon  Wtf)  " 
Can  a*  oforeuid  And   Ukevrite  all  foreign  Balrer*  thit  keep  tbe   common  HiAt* 
and   Fairs  ia  tlie  said  Town  of  Northampton  Every  torh  Baker  or    hb  StmH  n 
pay  onto  the  sold  John  Knott  or  his  otder  (or  erery    Pair   of    Pannlcri  or  ht*<i| 
any  Stall  as  a  Shelter  from  the  Weather  as   St:i1lage   or   standing   ToD  ftir  miT 
stirh  Punnnici-  a>  aforesaid  to  pay  Tn-opencc.  And    likewix   all    Birch   Braoas  v 
Quickset*  (o  pay  after  the    accostomed    Manner    that    has   heen    formerly    pail  lir 
Stallage,  etc  And  (or  all  Milliloaes  lo  pay  the  usiul  aid  auxMlumad   Rxei.  Aaf 
for  every  Waggon  Wain  Cart  or  Ctwch  corercd  for  Every  lucJi  Waggon  Wais  w 
Cart  Coieh  to  pay  as  afoeeutd  Twopemre,  And  for  Kvery  new  set  of  WhtvXtiM 
wiih  Iran  Twopence  And  cnry  Piur  uf  WlieeU  not  ihod    with    Iron    la    pay   h  * 
puling  Toll  One  Penny,  And  we    doe    hereby    impower    (he    said    John    Knott 
receive  for  tbe  Tolls  smI  •very  Patt  thereof. 

Witness  oar  Hands  and  Scab  this  Twentieth  day  of  May  Anna    Dtd    171J 

Tboc  Baker 
Natbi  CastOB 

There  are  two  oUier  paper  copies  of  this  lease,  both  «  good 
deal  worn,  which  have  the  important  varialiOD  of  stating  tlut  the 
toll  uas  to  be  taken  upon  every  cart,  etc.,  that  had  n  vne^ht  of 
Jhf  hundred  ivci^lit  and  upwards.  As  [he  original  lease  ts  not 
forthcoming,  it  is  not  possible  to  say  which  was  correct.  It  vat, 
perhaps,  on  account  of  this  strange   t'arbition,  that  none  o(  the 


TOWN    PROPERTV. 


203 


were  produced  at  the  great   law  suits  and  that  counsel  was 

alulely  silent  as  to  any  lease  older  than  1765. 

On  December   iglh,   1765,   a  lease   was  signed,  by  which   the 

>ration  assigned  the  whole  of  the  Northampton  great  tolls  to 

ifiliiam   Gibson.    This  grant   recited   that  the   traverse  tolls  for 

ny  years  last  past  had  been   let  to  and   collected  by  EUzabeth 

t,  widow,    "  at    the   house  called    or   known    by    the  name  or 

of  the  MaCT*ye  Situate  in  the  South  Quarter,"  as  well  as  all  the 

Itet  tolls  on  cattle,  and  the  tolls  of  pickage  or  stallage,  and  St. 

arge's  pence,  which  had  of  laic  years  been  let  to  or  collected  by 

HUam  Aman.    The  whole  of  these  lolls  were  then  granted  to  the 

'DDt  lessee,  William  Gibson,  for  seven  years,  at  a  rental  of  £87. 

In  1769  the  last  mentioned  lease  was  called  in  and  renewed  to- 

Gibson,  at  a  like  rent,  for  a  period  of  14  years. 
On  May  3rd,  f}8i,  an  agreement    wa^    entered    into   by  which 
Killiam  Gibson  sub-Irt  the  market  and  fair  tolls,  the  traverse  tolls 
*'»lleclcd  at  the  toll  house  known  by  the  sign  of  the  Magpye  in 
South  Quarter,"  the  pickage  or  stallage  tolls,  and  St.  George's 
e,  to  William  Tomkins  and  John  Bliss  for  the  sum  of  £S-;  for 
iriftglc  >'ear.    In   I7*i3   Mr.   Gibson  sub-let  the  tolls  to  the  same 
(or  three  years,  at  a  yearly  rental  of  ;{;9o. 
Id  1789  the  town  leased  all  the  great  tolls  to  William  Tomkins 
five  years,  at  an  annual  rental  of  £8S.     At  Michaelmas,  1790, 
1^  sante   tolls   were   leased   to   William   Tomkins  and  Thomas 
[TftaloBs,  at  a  rental  of  £98,  for  five  years. 

The  great  tolls  were  leased  to  Alderman  William  Gibson,  at 
' iRdiadnias,  1798,  "(or  certain  valuable  considerations."  The 
womiitee  for  letting  the  tolls  met  at  the  guildhall  on  September 
'*li-  1798,  when  the  mayor,  Mr.  Justice  Smith,  Mr.  Justice  Gibson, 
*ti  iwo  others  were  present,  when  it  was  resolved  to  let  the  great 
^  Small  tolls  of  the  town  to  Mr.  Alderman  Gibson  at  a  rental  of 
i^  lOKethcr  with  an  allowance  of  £^  7s.  to  the  mace-bearer,  and 
lA  IB  to  the  serjeants-at-mace. 

This  composition  to  the  mace-bearer  was  in  lieu  of  his  market 
^  on  com,  fish,  fruit,  and  eatables,  which  had  for  a  considerable 
pwiod  been  regarded  as  his  perqui.tites.  The  composition  to  the  four 
•tncaals  represented  the  small  ^-ood  lolls,  which  had  recently 
Iwen  .^signed  to  them.  The  tolls  had  been  advertised  to  be  let  to 
the  highest  bidder,  but  as  there  was  no  bidding  .-Vlderman  Gibson 
coftjcnted  to  account  for  their  collection. 


i04 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


In  the  following  year  the  town  !et   the   same  tolls   to 
Coulson  and  William  Allen  for  £76.  together  with    £7  nji. 
mace-bearer  and  serjcants.    Richard  CouUon,  in  conjunctioa 
Thomas   Hands,  obtained  the  tolls   the  following  year  it  s 
further   reduction,   viz.,    jC63  and    £^1    igs.     In    iSol    Mr.  Coiti 
took  the  tolls  for  three  years,  at  a  rental  of  70  j^ineas, 
of  the  Cl  19s. 

John  Huttwas  appointed  receiver  of  the  tolls  by  an 
dated  31st  December,  iJJio.  but  the  rental  is  not  slated.    Ap 
to  this  agreement   is  a  schedule  containing  a  table  of  te^ 
authorised  to  be  demanded  and  taken  of  all  persons  not 
of  the  to^v'^  of  Northampton,  issued  under  the  common  se4l. 

For  er«ry  Waggon,  Wain,  or  Can  travtlling  to,  from,  or  through  Ut 
Slid  Town,  aqd  haviBg  thereon  a  Load  of  (w  handrcd  wtogbl  «c 

■pwuiU,  >  paMii^  Toll  cf        -  ^ 

For  every    Pack   Horse,  Mare.    GeMfng.   MuK  Au.   oc  other   BeaR 
bavins  ^  ^^1*  '^  Padge*  (W^ntyed)  on  bb  or  ber  Back        ,_        I* 

Fof  every  Waggon,  Wain,  or  Cart,  covervd       —   ^ 

For  every  new  xe(  uf  Wheeb  tAxA  wiih  Iron  _.         _        ^ 

F«r  «v«y  new  »»t  of  Wheel*  not  »liMd  with  Iron        „,         -..         -     l' 
Forcvccy  HarM.  Mara,  or  Gctdinf .  txnicK. 
sold,  or  exrhaniied,  in  any  Pair,  Man.  a 

Market  vriifcia  iKe  uid  Town f 

For  ervery  Botl.  do ,.        ...    4* 

Foe  every  Mlivt  Ur^  8««it,  do         ...        I' 

For  e»ery  Ram,  do _    t 

Pot  erety  Score  uf  Sheep,  do...         ■>•         8* 
For  evety  BoAr,  do  ...         -..         ...        «.    4^ 

For  a*«ry  Hog,  do  .  ■' 

For  every  Stall  or  Standing  which  shall  be  *et  up  by  any  Pervpn 
(noi  b^Bg  free)  In  any  lurh  F;iir,  Marl,  or  Mariict,  in  tbe  C>inia(c 
my  (excapt  aucfa  Staih  or  Standing*  ai  ate  or  ma)  be  rented  \\l 
the  Mid  Mayor,  BailiCEs.  and  BurgesM*)  a  xUuding  Toll  of  r 

Sr.  Geowsb's  PsHCt. 
Every  Peraon  wluttaoerer  rewdlftg  whhtn  the  Libettiw  o(  (he  aeid  T«»ti 
and  usiog  any  Wc'iKbu  or  MeanutM  In  hU  or  hcMrade  or  dealiaci, 
10  pay  yearly  nt  Fwst  trf  St.  Georg»  the  Wanyr  I 

It  is  mentioned  in  the  details  ol  the  law  suit  that  this  «cli< 
of  tolls  was  painted  on  a  board  and  fijced  on  the  wall  of   Will 
Allen's  house,  to  whom  the  tolls  were  Rranlcd  in    i8ii  for    a 
of  three  years.     They  were  granted  again  to  the  same  cc 
(or  a  like  term  of  years  in  1814.  and  1817- 


If  cither  Buyer  or 
Seller  be  Erec  then 
only  half  Toll  b 
payabla 


•  F*4<<,  a  (•oMIf,  I*  «(ni»sd«tUfwU«i  la  a  r*tk  wkltli  *>■•  M>4  te  a  part— e4U.  Ttei 


2o6 


NORTHAMPTON   BOROUGH   Rf^COROS. 


V\'ith  regard  lo  tlie  case  of    Robert  Clarke,  a  cocnnwo 
{rom  Lcke^iter  to  London,  who  had  several  waggons  on  xix 
the    corporation    of    Northampton    detcrinined    to    take-  ci 
opinion.    They  drew  up  a  case  to  be  submitted  to  Mr.  Pt 
their  deputy  recorder.     In  stating  their  case,  tlicy  bricflr  rrcUcd 
History  and  the  ccsiditioii  of  the  great  tolls,  adding  that  ccrtificiU* 
granted    by  the  stewards  of  the  duchy  of  Lancaster  and  r^ 

places  claiming    exemption   had   considerably  increased,  sim  .  : 

Robert  Clarke  had  paid  the  traverse  tolls  for  ae^-erjd  year:*,  aid 
'775'  when  he  obtained  a  licence  from   the  duchy.     The  < 
then  arcsc  whether  there  was   power   to  grant  licence*  '" 
other  men's  goods  from  ancient    traverse   lolls,  such   _ 
carried  for  hire.     Unfortunately,  though  the  draft  of  the  cut 
submitted  to  Mr.  Perceval  is  extant,  his  reply  is  not  giveB, 

Tlirough  Seaton    Lancum's  action  in   tiyinj^  to   insUt  on 
passage  tolls  from  all  who  did  not  cany   with   them   c» 
certificates,  considerable  opposition  was  raised,  and  several  wbobj 
previously  paid  now  set   the  collector  at   defiance-      M  last  tlit 
collector  resolved  to   take   action   in  a  test  case,  and  e\-aitialtf 
selected  one  Arthur  Lovell  as  d«fendaiit.    The  particulars  of  tht 
demand  show  that  action  was  taken  for  the  recovery  of   n' 
as  toll  upon  oxen  bought  in  the  Northampton  market  in  i*-  >     - . 
and  March,  1S31,  and  for  a  further  sum  of  lOd.  due  from  cettw 
laden    waggons   going  cut  or    passing    into    Northampton    imff 
March  and  April  of  the  same  year,   thus  raising  the  qucslioo  boll 
of  the  market  and    the  traverse  tolls.     The  case  was  tried  *.i  tbt 
Guildhall.  London,  before  a  special  jur>-,   in   Febraaiy,    1 
was  argued   at  great  length,  the  transcript  of   the   tr— '    ■ 
closely-printed  volume  of  450  pages.     Although  the   ^  ■ 
the  opinion  of  modern   antiquaries  and    record  agents,  were  moA 
carelessly  got   up,  the  true  meaning  of  the  public    rvconU  hcinj 
quite   misunderstood   by   tl>e  counsel  for  the  corporation.  ai>d  the 
best  evidence  from  the  local  records  being  never  brought  forwanl, 
the  case  for  the  corporation  was  so  strong  on  both  counts  that 
woo  an  easy  victory. 

An  application,  however,  was  made  for  a  new  trial,  which 
at  last  granted  on  purely  technical  grounds,  but   the  dralh 
defendant  caused  the  rule  for  a  new  trial  to  be  discharged. 

The  orders  of  assembly  five  seversU  interesting  panivulari 
regard  to  this  litigation  that  have  not  hitherto  been  publish* 


TOWN   PROPERTY. 


JO7 


Tt    was    resolved    in    1830  that   Seaton    Lancum,    lessee   of  the 

*-n  tolls,  be  defended  at  the  expense  of   the  corporation  in  the 

3n  brought  against  him  by  Mr.  George  Pell. 

The  tolli  conimiUec   reported  that   ihey  were  advised  that  it 

better  for  the  lessee  of  the  tolU  to  be  plaintiff  tha.n  defendant, 

therefore  they  were   striving    to    bring    to   an  end  the  action 

:h  Pell  had  commenced  against  Lancum  for  trespass  in  seizing 

halter  35  distress  for  non-payment  of  tolls ;   that  a  direct  action 

been    beeun  against    Pcll    for    non-payment  of   toll,   and  also 

St  Hve  others  on  distinctive  grounds :  that  these  five  had  all 

in  and  paid  their  tolls,  but  that   now  five  other  actions,  as 

i\   as    that    against    Pell,  against    five    other    defendants    were 

[ptodin^,  some  of  which  would  go  to  trial ;    that    they  had  made 

[TCiy  elaborate  researches    Into  ancient    and  authentic  documents, 

»ii  were  confident  Uiat  the  corporation  would  be  successful. 

In  April,  1S32,  it  was  reported  to  ihr  as-sembly  that  the  action 
far  the  great  atul  small  tolls,  brought  in  the  name  of  Seaton  Lancum, 
U«ir  lessee,  against  Arthur  Ixivcll  for  recovery  of  tolls  on  two 
btdcd  wa<;gons  coming  into  the  town,  and  for  the  toll  on  eight 
Ifctasts  bought  by  him  in  the  market  (thus  embracing  both  the 
lus^ge  and  market  tolls),  had  b«-cn  tried  before  the  Lord  Chief 
Justirc  at  the  Guildhall,  London,  on  Februa.ry  Jist  and  22nd,  and 
Au  the  iur>',  without  hesitation,  had  returned  a  verdict  for  the 
pUtntiff  on  both  counts. 

At  the  same  assembly  the   mayor   presented   a  declaration  for- 

[■taled  to  him.  and  signed  by  120  inhabitants  of  the  town,  regretting 

'^  so  much  unpleasant   feeling    had  arisen  between   the  agricul- 

'■"isls  and  the  corporation  on  the  toll  ciuse,  and  urging  apparrntly 

**«  lompromisc  or  withdrawal.     He  also  had  received  a  requisition 

)>Kntd  by  a  few  inhabitants  begging  them  to  give  up  the  tolls,  and 

"^Blading  a  public  meeting  on  the  subject.     But    the  corporation 

•o"*  coaimittce   much   deprecated  any   meeting  at   that  juncture 

■*•«  further    law  proceedings  were  pending,  but  pledged   Ibcra- 

Klvts  to  subsequently  inquire  if  any  conunutation,  modification,  or 

rtlinquishment  were  possible. 

(^n  the  other  hand,  a  declaration    was   at    the   same  assembly 

prtiented  to  the  mayor,  aldermen,  and   burgesses,  signed   by  244 

'inner*  and  graziers  of   the    neighbourhood,  who   had   for    many 

!"»'»  attended  the  Notlhamplon  fairs,  and  who  wished  to  express 

""ir  tiitiest  desire  for  the  continuance  of   these  fairs  and  their 


3dS 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS-    " 


determined  intention  to  attend  aiid  support  such  fairs  in  the  future. 
The  thanks  of  the  house  \\'erc  voted  lo  all  these  gentlemen  who 
had  "so  honorably  and  spontaneously  come  fonvard  in  support 
of  the  established  and  chartered  rights  of  the  corporation  and 
publicly  declaring  by  advertisement  their  detemiination  lo  attend 
and  support  the  fairs  at  Northampton  at  a  moment  when  a  party 
was  raised  for  the  purpose  of  removing  such  fairs  and  thereby  tdt 
injure  the  Town  and  Trade  of  Northampton." 

The  committee  for  investigating  the  corporation  accounts  io 
1833  found  thai  the  corporation  had  incurred  a  debt  of  £2,750  for 
their  expenses  in  establishing  the  right  of  tolls. 

In  1S36  the  reformed  corporation  decided  to  discontinue  the  town 
tolls  as  contrary-  to  the  spirit  of  the  times  and  the  freedom  of  trade, 
and  thus  ended  a  most  interesting  privilege,  in  defence  of  vrhidi 
the  old  corporation  had  recently  expended,  in  one  way  or  tlie 
other,  at  least  jC3iOo^- 

Fee  Farm. 
The  term  fec<fann  has  already  been  used  with  some  frequncy 
in  the  preceding  pages,  in  connection  with  the  town  of  North- 
ampton. As  the  expression  is  frequently  misunderstood,  and 
supposed  to  be  connected  with  landed  property,  or  the  modem  u 
of  the  word  'farm,'  it  will  be  as  well  to  give  a  very  brief  ex- 
planation of  its  meaning.  It  signifies,  in  a  legal  sense,  landed 
property  held  of  another  in  fee,  that  is  in  perpetuity  to  the 
tenant  and  his  heirs  for  so  much  yearly  rent. 

Northampton,  with  its  adjacent  liberties,  was  part  of  the  ancient 
demesne  of  the  crown.  The  various  rights  pertaining  to  ths 
crown,  a.s  well  att  those  contingent  upon  the  king  as  lord  ot  tha 
manor,  were  conveyed  to  the  comm.ona]ty  of  the  town.  Tenantft 
in  ancient  or  royal  demesne  according  to  the  usual  custom  oF 
England  were  quit  of  every  kind  of  toll  in  every  market,  fair, 
town,  or  city  throughout  the  kingdom.  Every  such  tenant  bad  iha 
right  to  demand  letters  patent  under  the  king's  seal  to  all  maycft 
bailiffs,  and  like  officers.  This  is  the  origin  of  the  certilica! 
granted  to  Duchy  of  (..ancaster  tenants  quoted  in  our  account.'^  o 
the  traverse  tolls  of  Northampton.  The  various  charters  given  a.i 
the  first  volume  definitely  secured  ail  these  exemptions  to  tV»^ 
Northampton  burgesses ;  but  even  without  these  charters  iK 
could  have  claimed  all  such  toll  quittance,  provided  it  was 
established  they  were  tenants   in   ancient  demesne. 


5 


TOWN    PROPERTT. 


In    rcturu    for   the  rarioiis   and   valuable  privileges  Ihat  thus 
aorrued  to  the  inhabitants   ol    Xorthampton,    the  croM-n    natttrally 
tcJ  wwne  pecuniary  return.     The   fee-farm   rent  of  the  town 
.  >rthampton  was  orig"inaIIy  fixed  at  /lao,   a  very  high  figure 
wc  consider  the  value  of  money  in  those    early    days.      The 
«brrifl  of  the  county  was  responsible  to   the  crown  for  a  yearly 
t  f  this  rent.     The  l-*ipc  Rolls    from    Henry    Il.*»   time  give 

t  -     is  of  this  yearly  accuunl  as    quoted    in   the   first   volume. 

Aa  A  set  oif  against  this  heavy  annual  payment,  the  town  in  times 
of  f;ood  trade  fully  expected  to  realise  at  least  an  equivalent  sum 
it&  market  and  traver:ie  tulls.  Certain  of  its  officials,  for  the 
part  the  two  bailiffs,  were  charged  with  the  duty  of  beinj; 
30»itie  for  the  fee-farm  rent,  and  consequently  the  collection 
^  the  tolls  was  placed  in  their  hands.  Plenty  of  evidence  of  this 
kbd  of  procedure  for  the  payment  of  Uie  crown  rental  can  be 
obtaiued  from  the  records  of  other  old  boroughs  on  ancient 
dt'OKsnes :  but,  strange  to  say,  this  side  of  the  case  ^vas  completely 
neglected  in  the  great  law  suit  respecting  the  Northampton  tolls. 
It  was  not  unusual  for  bailiffs  to  make  themselves  responsible, 
under  a  bond,  for  the  payment  of  the  crown  rental,  and  then  to  make 
wh.it  profit  they  could  out  of  the  tovrn  tolls ;  and  this  course  was 
certainly  adopted  at  certain  periods  in  the  history  of  Northampton. 
At  the  beginning  of  Edward  III.'s  reign  the  fee-farm  of  North- 
ampton wa^  assigned  by  him  to  "Isabel,  Queen  of  England,  our 
most  dear  mother,"  to  whom  it  was  paid  to  the  time  of  her 
death. 

The  crown,  as  a  rule,  jealously  adhered  to  its  fee-farm   rents, 
they  formed  one  of  the  most  certain  items  of  definite  revenue. 
Ip  to  the  year  1353,   the   Northampton  fee-farm   rent  was  duly 
jd  to  the  crown  through  the  sheriffs.     Rut  in  that  year,  Fldward 
(111.,  who  two  years  previously   had    founded    the   royal    collegiate 
lurch  of  St-  Gcor^'».  Windsor,  gave  in   perpetuity  to  the  dean 
'and  canons  of  Windsor  one  hundred  marks   (£66  13s.  4d.)      From 
Lthat  day  onward*  the  town  was  obliged  to  pay  this  sum  direct  to 
le  clergy  of  Windsor, 
In  1462  Edward  IV.  remitted  to  the  town   of    .\orthampton  the 
t"«"^i  suiii  of  £20  from  the  fee-farm  rent  for  the  term  of  20  years. 
In  1478  the  same  king  remitted  the  sum  of  j{|2o  for  a  further  term 
of  13  years,  to  date  from  the  expiration  of  the  previous  term.      In 
t4$4  Richard  III.,  in  consequence  of  the  desolate  state  of  the  town, 
remitted  the  annual  sum  of  £33  6s.  Sd.  from  the  town  rental, 

P 


aio 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


Henry  \^II.,  b)'  letters  patent  io   1514,   remitted  for  ever  l|r] 
annual  sum  of  £,t%  from  the  original  fee-farm  rent  of  j£i2o,  leaviif 
a  total  of  £<^,  at  wbicli  it  aftervfards  remaiaed ;  this  reduced  te  { 
portion  due  to  the  crown  to  £31  6s.  8d. 

This   moiety  of   the   Northampton  fee-farm   u'as  cubMquemlr 
granted  by  the  crown  to  the  Earl  of  Winchilsea  and  Not* 
At  the  time  of  the  great  law  suit  with   respect   to   the  i:    . 
town    was   paying    £66    13s.   4d.  to  the  Chapter  of    VVindMr,  ai4 
/31   65.   8d.   to    Mr.    Finch-Hatton,  a  relative  of  the  late  \M 
Winchilsea. 

About  the  centre  of  the  big  book  in  which  are  recorded  lb 
agreements  ^^-ith  apprentices  and  cox'enant  servants  between  \fA 
and  1721,  in  the  midst  of  the  year  1689,  occur  the  entries  of  tk 
bailiffs'  account  of  the  fee-farm  rent  for  the  years  1575,  1576. 137;, 
1578,  ij79,  1580,  1581,  and  1586,  and  of  the  quittance  or  reaqt 
for  its  being  duly  Iwinded  over  to  the  Dean  aJid  Chapter  of  Si- 
Gcorge's,  Windsor.  These  entries  arc  made  in  set  court  hand  JD 
abbreviated  Latin,  and  each  occupies  a  whole  page.  They  leflP 
to  be  transcripts  from  the  Great  Roll  of  the  Exchequer.  TV 
fee-farm  income  thus  transferred  to  the  collegiate  church  «l 
Windsor  from  Northampton  was  £\2\  9s.  7d.  for  the  fir£t  of  tk 
five  above-named  years.  In  1580  the  sum  amounted  to  ^\A 
los,  7Jd.,  the  income  being  incrtrased  by  3S3  from  the  rector  cf 
All  Saints',  £^\  8s.  from  the  master  of  St.  John's  Hospital,  t*4 
35s.  for  green  wax.  In  1581  the  amount  was  ^^123  lot.  lid^  mA 
in  15S6  £126  2s.  5Jd. 

In  the  next   century  the  sum    paid   to  the  collegiate   chnrck  d 
Windsor  reverted  to   the  precise   one  hundred   marks   of    Hdwaid 
ni.'s  gift  (;C66  13s-  4<1).  a"J  llms  remained.     We   are  quite  «■' 
loss  how  to  explain  the  increase   and   fluctuations  of  the  payment  | 
in  the  Elizabethan  days. 


Town  Tokens. 

The  town  of  Northampton  possetsed  the  right  of  coinage 
Anglo-Norman  days.     It  is  not  known   when   the   mint  of    North* 
ampton  was  first  established,  but  it  was  in  active  operation  duric 
the  reigns  of  Richard  I.,  John,  aijd  Henry  III.  This  royal  min- 
ever, soon  aiterwards  fell  into  abeyance,  and  for  nomc  four , 
there  was  no  coinage  at  Northampton.    The  issue  of  copper  toll 
began  in  Engbnd  in  1648,  and  only  extended  to  1679.    The  r« 


TOWN    PROHEBTV. 


Sir 


leir  issue  was  to  Dupply  an  urgent    public    need,    the    want  o( 

change  beini;  most  seriously  fell,  and  of  considerable  incon- 

^CDicnce  to  the  smaller  traders.     It  had  been   foolishly   considered 

leath  the  dignity  of  the  crown  to  issue  coins  of  any  metal  baser 

silver.     A  national  copper  coinage    was    conicinplaled  by  the 

rcmtiirDt  of  the  Commonwealth,  and  patterns  were  even  struck; 

it  no  authorised  issue  of  them  ever  took  place.    When  once  the 

:ial  mind  of   the    couiitr>-    had    grasped    the    fact    that  the 

te  issue  of  copper  coinage  was  no  longer  opposed  but   rather 

iraged,  there  was  no  part  of  England,  in  comparison  with  its 

pcfptilation.  that  more  heartily  availed  itself  of  this  privilege  than 

I  the  shite  of  Northampton.  No  fewer  tlian  179  different  tokens 
b&ve  been  identified  as  issued  in  that  "brief  period  of  30  years" 
Ihroughout  Northamptonshire.  In  Williamson's  edition  of  Boyne's 
7radr  Tokens,  23  varieties  of  Nortliampton  tokens  an-  enumerated. 
Id  a  few  town.i,  the  local  government  intervened  to  check 
private  coinage,  M\d  issued  tokens  in  tlie  name  of  the  town  for 
general  convenience  of  trade  and  for  its  mvn  profit. 
Where  this  was  done,  there  was  considerable  diversity  of  use 
to  the  special  officials  in  whose  names  they  sliould  be  issued, 
whose  names  they  should  bear,  such  as  the  mayor  and  aldermen, 
bailiff,  cliambcrlain,  churchwardens,  overseers,  con:«tablcs,  and  even 
fcword-bcarer.  There  can,  however,  be  no  doubt  that  the  charabcr- 
(who  took  his  name,  as  we  havi^  pointed  out,  from  the  custody 
the  camera  or  town  chestj  was  the  correct  official  for  this 
irpose. 
.\t  the  assembly  held  in  the  guildhall  on  March  J4th,  1653-3,  it 
'was  dt:tcrmined  that  in  consequence  of  the  dispersion  throughout 
the  town  of  divers  brass  halfpence  by  divers  pcrfons,  aiming  only 
at  their  private  advantage,  that  they  should  all  be  suppressed.  The 
chaml>erUin5  were  forthwith  directed  to  disburse  40  shillings  for 
farthing  tokens,  which  were  to  be  stamped  with  the  toivn  arms. 
The  askcmbly  further  ordered  that  any  profit  that  might  be 
nude  by  Uie  town  coinage  was  to  be  disbursed  amongst  tlie  poor. 
The  farthing  token  then  issued  by  the  town  bore  the  town  arms 
and  the  It-gend  S.  R.  tN  NOkTHATON.  William  Sclby  and  Richard 
^nudi  were  the  cbambcrlaias  for  that  year,  and  the  initial  letters 
doubtless  stand  for  their  respective  names. 

In    1635  the  assembly  passed  a  bye-law   interfering  in  a  re- 
markable degree  with  the  value  <rf  the  coinage;  " 'ITiat  all  Farthias 

1'  i 


312 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECOBD-S. 


belonginge  to  any  shopkeeper  or  other  Inhabitant  within  thia' 
Corporation  shall  forthwith  be  called  in  and  be  not  more  used  in) 
exchange,  or  suffered  to  be  ymployed  for  commerce  as  formerly  thtyj 
Ibave  been,  And  it  is  further  ordered  that  from  henceforth  the] 
Farthings  stamped  and  marked  with  the  Armes  of  this  towtie  of] 
Northampton  shall  freely  pass  and  go  current,  and  bee  esteemed 
and  taken  for  halfepence  a  piece  untiit  it  be  otherwise  ordred 
the  Asemblies." 

Mr.  John  Stevens,  one  of  the  chamberlains,  was  ordered  inl 
l6j7  to  provide  a  new  stamp  for  brass  halfpence  for  use  withinj 
the   town. 

There  are  no  less  thaa   four  variants   of  John  Spicer's  token.' 
One  of  them  bears  on  the  obverse   1.  S.  IN  Northampton;  aod 
a   castle,  with   two   lions   passant  gardant,   on   the   reverse.     The 
other  varieties  bear  the  same  initials,  but  have  different  kinJa  of 
castles  or  gateways,  and  different  ways  of  spelling  the  town  name. 

There  was  a  new  issue  of  the  town  copper  coinage  at  the 
Restoration,  which  was  stamped  on  the  obverse  with  I.  T.  IS 
Northampton,  with  a  castle;  and  on  the  reverse  Chamberuise, 
1660,  and  two  lions  passant  gardant.  John  Twigden,  who  w» 
mayor  in  1666,  was  the  acting  chamberlain  in  1660. 

In  May,  1662,  the  chamberlains  were  instructed  to  melt  dowa 
the  brass  halfpence  that  had  been  called  in  during  the  previous 
year,  and  to  pSace  a  new  stamp  upon  them  which  can  h^  dis- 
tinguished  from  the  old  stamp.  Those  who  had  brought  in  the 
old  halfpence  were  to  have  a  like  value  in  the  new  coinage. 

A  royal  proclamation  was  issued  in  1672,  making  current  a 
national  coinage  of  pence,  halfpence,  and  farthings,  and  forbidding 
all  others  to  be  used. 


section  five. 
Commons   and    Cattle. 

Thx  town  couuonaltv  once  a  village  couhunitv — Pinder,  hogkerd,  and 
nesosHAN — Pasture  tikes  on  the  commons — Number  of  cows  and  horses 
PBRUiTTED  TO  graze— Taintors  on  the  commons — The  inclosure  of  North- 
ampton FIELD— Willows  on  the  commons— The  town  bull — A  herdswoman — 
Branding  dav  and  branding  dinners — Hoes  and  the  hogherd — Pinfolds — 
Vermin — Duston  lordship  or  abbot's   meadow. 


COMMON'S    AND    CATTLK. 


315 


» 


THE    COMMONS    AND    CATTLE. 

T  N    this   section  we  dea!  with  far  the  oldest  and  earliest  form  of 

property  that  the  commonalty  possessed.  The  possession  of 
Unds,  and  of  certain  proprietary  rights  over  lands  surrounding  the 
boundaries  o(  tlie  town,  lead  us  into  a  far  earlier  phase  of  history 
llun  anything  that  rests  upon  royal  charters  or  acts  of  p^rli.iment. 
It  isDoi  a  iiltle  remarkable  to  note,  that,  in  any  study  of  municipal 
life  or  offices,  the  student  is  almost  invariahly  brought  back  to 
llie  fact  that  the  town  commonalty  was  originally  a  village  com- 
niinity,  and  that  the  very  nature  of  some  of  the  oldest  offices 
pctnts  to  an  agricultural  rather  than  a  commercial  life. 

Northampton  is  no  exception  to  this  rule;  in  fact,  its  records 
icourlcably  verify  it,  whether  we  have  regard  to  pjnders.  hogherds, 
*nd  herdsmen,  or  to  the  abundant  evidence  as  to  the  common 
r%)itsof  the  burgesses  in  the  open  fields  on  all  sides  of  the  town. 

Early  in  the  morning  the  freeman  of  Northampton  opened  the 
•loor  of  his  yard,  when  the  hoghcrd  went  round  the  strircts  with 
*iiKiing  horn  to  collect  the  swine  and  drive  them  out  for  pasturage 
till  llic  evening ;  at  the  fit  seasons  of  the  year  he  sent  his  cows 
'Bd  horse  to  graze  upon  the  common  fields,  paying  his  quota  to 
^^  cocnmon  herdsman  and  the  pinder :  and  when  duty  summoned 
'ook  his  share  (or,  in  later  times,  paid  a  substitute)  of  the  common 
"rour  outKidc  the  ramparts  of  the  town. 

Some  of  the  very  earliest  entries  in  the  first  order  book  of 
^  assembly  relate  to  pasture  rights  on  the  commons.  The  fol- 
lowing arc  two  of  the  orders  or  bye-laws  of  1 553 : — 

"f>  that  no  man  dull  lt«pe  ii)o«r  for  hit  frtLtxhh  thnn  iij  b««t«B  up«n  ibv 
n»a*«u  La  allt  and  that  ihej  be  his  awn*  or  that  they  b«  hynd  for  monjr 
•"™<'  »y  tnft  or  colunon  uptin  ftj^e  of  x"  fo«  erwy  tyn>e  to  tke  uie  o£  the 
'**"iMt  (od  that  ftnjr  parlie  Hisp«ci«  In  Ihii  behaUT  ihalbe  cwori\e  before  (he 
■■w  Iw  lh«  prwik  of  »iw:hc  benitc  or  beulea  and  that  tKc  chamtwrUjrncs  may 
*••  tv»j  nun  (other  b«an  butt  no  horses  nor  geldii^s. 

Iwi  iLit  the  Cowc  medowe  the  hone  mcdowe  oext   jrtl    and   Rawlines  halrae 

^"*  "•["  <ew«UI  from  the    purlfirjiriun  of    Saynt    Marj    (he    Virgin    uiitjll    the 

-wiOn  cf  the  bolf  cTOue  in  may  and  likeuriM!  from  the  anumplioa  of  our  lady 

••yni  rukc  dsy  iho  oTanseUite  upon  payne  of  x**  erery  be«sl  bund  putt  In  at 

"^  "Pw  10  lift  UM  o<  lk«  dumbyr. 


3l6  NOKTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 

It  was  agreed,  tii  tbe  following  year,  that  no  franchiscd  nan 
should  put  into  the  Cow  Meadow  at  St.  Luke's  day  morr  Uur.  'j,r 
cow  or  One  horse,  the  same  to  be  marked  by  the  chambi'ii.i:ni 
with  the  town  mark.  The  payment  was  a  penny  apiece,  but  tsf 
one  putting  in  more  than  his  due  number  was  to  be  5ned  a  shihn- 
At  the  same  time,  it  was  ordered  that  if  any  sheep  were  uW 
pasturing  or  feeding  within  the  towii  n'alls,  or  on  the  commaiu,  i 
fine  of  2od.  was  Lo  be  levied  for  each  sheep. 

At  an  assembly  held  in  1555.  Mr.  John  Mole.  Mr.  Henry  CUik, 
John  Harpole  (tanner),  William  Bugby  (tanner).  Robert  BradfjU 
(tanner),  John  Gratwood  finnholder).  Thomas  Farebrother  itiilarl. 
men  of  sixty  years  of  age,  gave  evidence  touching  the  p\- 
ground  without  the  south  gate,  behind  the  mansion  pl-ice  i-  ^i. 
Cryspe,  towards  Mar\'ell  mills.  They  sLit«d,  on  oath,  that  Uie 
said  piece  of  ground  had  been  common  for  thirty  or  forty  ywi 
past,  and  that  the  whole  herd  of  btMsts,  as  well  as  horses,  *tft 
wont  to  go  there  after  the  first  crop  was  gone.  Thereupon  Mr. 
Neale,  "EOinewh.-it  ageynst  his  n-ill,"  and  Mr.  Cryspe,  his  tenaot, 
did  agree  and  allow  the  same  as  common  after  the  first  crop  m 
taken,  "nolens  votens." 

In  1556  it  was  determined  that  no  franchised  man  of  CoUoo 
and  St.  James'  End,  or  elsewhere  without  the  liberties  of  tlie  town, 
shall  have  any  common.^  appertaining  to  the  liberties,  unless  he  be 
down-lying  and  up-rising  and  dwelling  within  the  liberties,  Bpott 
pain  of  40s-  Cotton  and  St.  James*  End  u'ere  not  included  in  tbe 
borough  until  the  charter  of  t6t8. 

An  order  made  in  1565  provided  that  if  any  freeman  tocdc  up.  cK 
caused  to  be  taken  up,  any  cattle  as  strays,  and  did  not  preaenit} 
give  information  to  the  bailiffs,  that  he  should  be  subject  to  a 
fine  of  3s.  4d. 

At  the  September  assembly,  1582,  ii  was  ordered  that  tbe 
Cow  Meadow.  St.  George's  Lej's.  Balmes  Holme,  and  ihe  Foot 
Meadows  should  be  severally  opened  from  September  8lh  until  St- 
Luke's  Day. 

In  I5$5  it  was  ordered  that  no  freeman  should  put  any 
mare,  horse,  or  gctding  into  the  Cow  Meadow,  until  fourteen  t\iy\ 
after  the  feast  of  St.  John  Baptist,  under  a  pain  of  js.  ^d.  But  it 
ahould  be  lawful  for  any  freeman  to  put  liis  marc,  horse,  or  geld- 
ing into  Bawkinsholme  (sic)  Meadow  and  the  Foot  Meadow  .it  St 
Thomas's  Day  next  after  Midsummer,  according  to  the  old 


COMMONS    AND    CATTLE. 


ai7 


An  assembly  held  in  April,  1588,  provided  that  anyone  leaving 
planks  or  timber  over  the  ditches  into  the  Cow  Meadow  should  be 
fined  6s.  8d.,  and  that  henceforth  no  one  should  be  ;illowcd  to  lay 
planks  across  the  ditches  or  anywhere  in  the  Cow  Meadow,  between 
rchruary  2od  and  August    ist. 

In  isgg  the  a.<Uirmb1y  passed  an  elaborate  order   to  check   the 

of  the  commoas  by  the  unenfranchised,  and   to  restrain  other 

f-lrrcgularitics,     It  was  provided  that  anyone,  not  bcinR  3  freeman, 

w  not  dtvcHing  within  the  liberties  of  the  town,  who  should  place 

■poo  the  commons  any  horse,  gelding,    mare,   colt,   bull,  cow,   ox, 

ballock,  steer,  runt,  or  weaned  calf,  should  be  subject  to  a  penal^ 

|<l(6!>.8d.     A  lilcc  order  was  made   with    respect  to  the  pasture  or 

'aeadow  grounds  of  the  manor  of  Duston,  known  as   the  Abbott's 

Meadow,  Ox  Close,  and  West  Holmes.      Any  freeman    pulling  in 

tiK  coininons  any  cattle  or  beasts,  not  being  his  own  bona  fide,  or 

kirtd  for  six  months,  was  to   be    subject   to   a  Kite  penalty.      No 

tnictnan  was  to  put  in  more  than  two  kjne  or  cows  into  the   Cow 

W<adow-,  St.  George's  Lcj-s,  or  Calves  Holme.     Former  orders  were 

wcilod.  and  it  was  further  enacted  thai  any    freeman    turning  out 

■W  the  commons  any  horse  "  infected  with  the  mange,  or  mourning 

**  tie  chinl*.  or  having  the  disease  called  the  fassioiist,"  should  be 

"■Kd  6s.  8d.,  and  that  any  chamberlain    neglecting  lo  turn  off  any 

"•'iSc  llius  diseased,  should  be  subject  lo  a  like  penalty.     "  Provided 

^waycs  that    Mr.    Robert    Catlin,    now   mmistcr  of    All    Sainctes 

^'^l  have  commons  and  depasturing  of  and  for  one  cowe,  and  one 

"'Kc,  gelding,  or  marc;  and  Simon  Wastell,  scholemastcr,  of  and 

,*Qr  anc  cowc,  as  other  freemen." 

Complaint  was  made  to  the  assembly  in  1619  thai  many  high* 
**'aj"i  were  being  made  in  and  through  the  Cow  Meadow,  by  reason 
**f  the  tanners,  glovers,  whittawers,  parchment  makers  and  others 
*'«^mg  their  pells,  hides,  skins,  and  other  stuff.  The  assembly 
hereupon  imposed  a  flne  of  6s.  8d.  on  anyone  making  any  way  or 
passage  inlo  or  through  the  said  meadow,  or  wasfiing  any  manner 
^  skins  or  wools  in  the  high  river,  or  in  any  brooks  about  the 
rbcadow. 

h  was  reported  lo  the  assembly  in  February,  1608-9,  "that 
there  are  diverse  Taintors  in  the  Cow  Meadow,  by  reason  whereof 
great  annoyance  and  hurt  hath  ensued  and  will  ensue  if  redresse  be 
not    n*de."     Whereupon  the  assembly  ordered  that  anyone  having 

■CUiri,  Urn  ^Mh.  tFMilOTt.  iK*  laKf. 


3l8 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


taintors  set  up  !n  the  meadow,  should  wittin  forty  days  pluck  them 
up  and  carry  them  away.  The  chamberlains  were  to  see  that  up, 
taintors  were  henceEorth  erected,  and  if  any  traai^grcssed,  the; 
were  empowered  at  once  lo  remove  them,  Taintors  or  tayntoi 
were  fixed  stretchers  of  wood  for  the  stretching  and  bleaching 
clulh,  and  were  not  infrequently  the  subject  of  l<^slation  because 
of  their  excessive  use  in  lengthening  the  cloth  at  the  expense 
the  material.  As  they  occupied  much  ground,  they  were  n 
allowed    on    the   commoDS  save  at  a  fixed    rental. 

In  1554  John  Sutton,  fuller,  secured  from  the  corporation  a  I 
for  "  ij  layntor  groundes  the  one  in  Cowe  Mcdow  conteyning 
yardes  in  lenglhc  and  a.  other  in  sayiit  Georges  Ices  in  lengthe  x: 
yardes."  For  this  lease  he  paid  a  fine  of  3s.  ^d.,  and  a  yearl; 
rental  of  the  same  amount.  In  1621  it  was  agreed  that  John 
Robinson,  fuller,  have  free  liberty  to  set  up  a  pair  of  taintors 
the  Cow  Meadow,  in  the  same  place  where  heretofore  he  an 
John  Fox,  his  predecessor,  used  to  have  taintors.  Fermissioi 
was  f;iven  to  him  to  use  these  taintors  at  all  times  of  the  year, 
without  any  denial  or  interruption  from  the  corporation,  provjd 
that  he  paid  a  yearly  rent  to  the  chamberlains  of  2os. 
1630  the  assembly  voted  j£io  to  Mr,  Danby  towards  defrayinj 
the  charge  of  setting  up  "Taintors,"  to  be  employed  in  his 
trade  as  clothier;  Mr.  Danby  to  pay  a  yearly  rent  for  them  ot 
SOS. ;  if  j£'io  would  not  cover  the  expense  the  remainder  to  be 
found  at  the  chamber  charge,  and  los.  to  be  abated  yearly  out  of 
the  rent  until  it  be  repaid. 

Complaint  was  made  in  1617  that  much  hurt  and  dana^ 
were  daily  done  to  the  Cow  Meadow,  and  to  the  willows  grow- 
ing therein,  by  whittawers  laying  their  horse  hides  and  other  skins 
upon  the  willows,  and  tlie  parchment  makers  and  glue  mikett 
continually  setting  their  harrows  and  laying  ihcir  glue  in  tbe 
same  meadow.  The  assembly  ordered  tlie  restraint  of  all  Ihe*" 
acts  under  a   penally  of  6s.  86. 

In  1630  it  was  ordered  that  the  rate    for  freemen   tumin/t  "»<* 
their  horses  and  beasts  on  the  commons  should  be  3s.  id.  foreacS 
horse  or  gelding,  and  2s.  jil.  for  each  cow;  and  that  any  frcernW 
could  turn  out  two  cows  and  no  gelding  or  marc,  or  one  geldi^ 
or  marc  and  one  cow,  or  two  geldings  or   mares  and   00  ccvmi,* 
the  above  rates. 

At   a   later  assembly    in   the  same   year    it  was  order^..^  C^ 


i 


If    I 


COMMONS    AND    CATTLE. 


219 


len  mighl  put  their  geldings  or  mares  into   Balmcs  Holme  at 
id.,  and  bcasth  at  i5d.  each. 

In  1632  the  commons  rates  were  again  altered.  It  was  provided 
Ireeraen  may  put  to  grass  in  the  Cow  Meadow,  the  town  part 
Balmes  Holme.  Mr.  Tate's  part  of  Gobion's  Holme,  and  Nun- 
Holme,  peldinjjs  or  mares  at  5s.  $<i.,  and  cons  at  4s.  id.  In 
632  the  charge  was  reduced  to  4s.  5d.  a  horse,  and  3s,  ^d.  a  cow. 
At  the  assembly  held  on  July  loth,  1650,  it  was  ordered  "that 
ic  grouuds  on  the  back  sides  of  the  Cow  Meadowe  which  were 
vcred  (rom  the  meadowe  in  the  tyme  thU  towne  was  a  Rarisoo 
ihalbe  fourthwith  reduced  againe  as  it  was  htiote  for  the  publiche 
mon  at  the  chamber  charge." 

Ill    1G56    the    penalty    imposed    on    any    freeman   putting   any 

er's  or  other  man's  cattle  on  to  the  commons  was  increased 

6s.  8d.  to  30S,     The  rate  at  this   time    was   4s.  4d.  a   horse, 

3»-  4d.  a  cow. 

The  rates  were  materially  raised  in  the  spring  of  1658,  when  it 

ordered  that  the  commons  belonging  lo  the  town,  tojjpther  with 

Castle  Hills,  Fool  Meadow,  and  Balmcs  Holme,  be  ope»  at  the 

,te  of  6s.  id.  for  a  horse,  and  5s.  id.  for  a  cow ;    that  the  cows 

ere  for  this  year  to  be  depastured  in  the  Cow  Meadow,  .ind  the 

■r»cs  in  all  the  other  places ;   that  it  shall   be    lawful   after  mid- 

ummcr  for  the  chamberlains  at  their  discretion,  within  one  day 

fter  announcement  by  the  crier,  to  drive  away  all  the  horses  and 

ws  off  the  commons  for  so  long  a  time  as  they  shall   think   fit 

for  the  bclterinji  of   the  commons  ;  and   that   anyone  depasturing 

any  cattle  until  the  chamberlains  shall  give  public  notice  shall 

forfeit  for  every  head  of  cattle  6s,  Sd. 

In  1663  the  commons  were  opened  much  later  than    usual,  the 

■a  being  very  wei. 
The  rate  in  1667  was  6s,  for  a  horse  and  5s.  for  a  cow.     The 
ihamberlain;;  were  thiit  year  authorised  to  refuse  to  receive  and  to 
m  out  any  beast   that   is   infectious  or  thought  not  lit  to  be 
eived. 

In  March,    1G69.  the  assembly  saw  occasion   to  make  a  new 

mons  bye-law— that  every  person  offering-  to  put  a  horse  amongst 

cows,  or  ■  cow  amongst  the  horse*  shall  forfeit  6s.  8d. 

Ij    ■■         1674,  it  was  ordered  that  all  back  doors  opening  on  to 

he  walled  up,  and  all  planks   and    bridges    removed. 

The  rates  that  year  were  6s.  id.  for  a  horse,  and  5$.  id,  a  cow. 


iL      In 


TtOKTHAMPTON    80ROL'CH    RECORDS. 


Ai  M  assembly  hdd  on   May  12th.  16&2,  h  vas  ordered  "1h 
the  Towtie  Commons   be    nxwrwl   or   cutt    this    prcstnt   ytaft 
reason  of  Uie  vrettness  of  the  s«A£on,  and    that   this  ^tare's  at 
mg  be  i»o  presideat  for  the  tyine  to  come" 

In  [702  tiicrc  was  no  soiaII  stir  in  Northampton   about  aS 
the  gnus  of  the  commons.     On  March  3r5t.  the   asscm'' 
that  the  comnoaable  meadows  be  moH-o   that  year ;   iuj  i  - 
pcTEoos  puning  tbetr  cattle  into  "the   latter   meatfa"  {z 
be  stinted  to  two  beadj  oF  cattle  and  pay  2d.  a  piece  for  brudui 
thai  ;£ioo  rabcd  b)-  the  sale  of  the  ^casa  be  paid  to  the  poor< 
the  hosfHtal.  and  other   poor   paid   by   the   rhambcrlainc,   ud 
other  necessary  pajrtnents  aitd   charges   of   the   chamberlainc, 
that    the    residue    of   the    money    be    used    (or    setting  oat 
children  as  apprentices. 

The  folkiwiag  brief  orders  passed  at  the  next  assembly,  hdia 
May  nth,  speak  for  themselves: — 

"  That  Un  Ordei  si  tbe  laK  Aaammhtj  conderning  tbe  raowinf  gl  tbs 
tU>  y9um  be  rwoalnd  and  nude  vajpd." 

"  TImi  the  Pipc7  btTMK^it  1b  by  tbe  CbambaUlne  sif nrd  (ri;iiiir  cravdl  fa  1 
Oryitxg  of  tbe  Cotnmotu  ui  hi)  own*  tynie  b  UlcKall,  »ni  »a  aAr«nt  lo  thi  ^i 
and  tUi  home.  It  bang  agaiut  ih«  Order  of  tht  last  Ataembiy   and   wtlMUt  1 
coiucnt." 

"  Tlul  !t  >*  tloa  opinion  <rf  this  l)««n  \\mI  Mr.  Maior  U  purpMlag  (e  mM  m 
Commoas  did  inisnd  ihc  |road  and  wcl^n  of  tba  lonnn." 

"  That  id  caa)id«rati««  «{  ptvciuii^  the    univeraall   peace   of   thb   Co 
thu  boiue  are  cooieM  to  Repeale   the  Act   o(  the  AsMmblj'   for    Mowim  rf  < 
Commciia." 

With  ngzrA  to  the  number  of  cattle  and  horses  depastured 
tlie  freemen  on  the  town  commons,  the  chamberlain'*  accounts 
1693  raention  sdo  horses  and  103  cows ;  in  1698,  the  numbers  mi 
233  horses  and  221  cows. 

The  following  order  was  made  by  tbe  assembly  on  March  31 

1715:— 

"Thnt  (he  cfaatnbrrtiiine  otnerre  iheie  orden  ftt    hia   bnndia;   Cotiell 
Commons,    vi*.  1 — That  every    hone   *hal)   p«y    tbe    fim    *rv«kc    Su   thil 
Four  »hlllliifi  thaD  bt  pajrd  fu-  a  rah. 

Ami  the  GrM  weeke  for  erery  Cow  that!  be  f*yA  P'm  •Ulling  am)  for  a 
Four  ihilliof;,  and  for  a  Cjlie  two  shitriap  KXpeno.  In  the  ■ronil  wiwlte  ia  atutt 
two  ihllhagi  (or  horso  or  «>w.  At  the  wcond  bnodlag  two  «hlllin0  for  tttmc  iM 
«ow  lo  be  payd.  An<)  t»  «elt  ilo«ra  the  ownen*  mmei  id  rnry  betsa  sni 
aad  Ibe  day  of  the  inoinh  wbut  patl  In  and  aeicred  in  m  bttoh  mti»  to 
perpoa*." 


222 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


levied  upon  the  chamberlain's  goods  if  the  order  was  neglected. 
Special  regulations  were  made,  as  we  h3^'c  seen.  In  1619.  to 
preserve  the  willows  from  dami^^.  A  leajie  was  granted  in  1669 
to  Valentine  Chadwick,  of  a  close  near  the  West  Bridge,  con- 
ditional upon  his  maintaining  a  competent  number  of  willows 
therein  ;  he  was  also  to  give  liberty  to  the  chamberlain,  or  tn  the 
warden  of  St.  Thomas,  to  cut  and  top  the  willows  (or  the  use  of 
the  poor  of  St.  Thomas'  House.  In  1691,  on  the  proposal  of 
Mr.  Duckett  there  was  a  considerable  planting  of  willows  in  the 
town  meadows.  The  cutting,  topping,  and  slacking  of  tlicse 
willows  was  the  cau^e  of  various  disputes  between  the  coqwration 
and  their  tenants.  There  u'as  a  lawsuit  on  the  subject  in  1720, 
in  which  the  town  won. 

The  chamberlain's  accounts  show  that  a  bull  was  bought  yearly 
by  the  town,  and  soinelimcs  two,  to  senc  in  the  Cow  Meadow. 
The  bull  was  aftcnvards  sold,  usually  at  a  loss.  In  1675,  Dunkley, 
the  butrhcr,  was  paid  {,z  23.  6ii-  for  a  bull ;  the  price  rose  to  £2 
145,  in  1696.  Soniclimes,  however,  the  bull  was  kept  on  for  another 
year,  when  the  herdsman  was  made  responsible  for  its  keep  and  main* 
tcnance.  In  the  1680  accounts  a  payment  was  made  of  £r  6».  Sd. 
to  "  the  heard  wintrinc  the  Bull."  There  is  a  payment  in  1693 
of  7d  "for  ropes  to  stake  ye  Bull."  In  1698  the  corporation  sold 
two  bulls,  one  for  {^%  6s.,  the  other  for  ,£2  23.  6d.  In  1703 
there  is  an  entry  "  pd  for  staking  the  bull,  2S.  6d.."  and  in 
1704  one  man  is  paid  2s.  6d.  "  for  dressing  the  Bull,"  and 
another  man  3s.  "  to  hold  hioi  wlieo  he  was  drest."  It  has  bceo 
suggested  that  these  entries  refer  to  the  cruel  but  common  practise 
of  bull-bailing.  It  is  possible,  however,  that  they  may  have  a  more 
innocent  explanation,  namely,  some  medical  treatment  of  the  aniinaL 
This  is  certainly  the  case  in  1707,  when  Dr.  Hockncll  was  paiii , 
2s.  6d.  "  for  bleeding  ye  bull  and  a  drench."  There  arc  scvcralj 
similar  entries  to  this,  and  in  1709  Hockncll  was  paid  a  bill 
{,\  OS.  6d.  "  for  curing  the  blow  on  the  Hulls  foote  and  helpe." 

In  1722  the  bull  gave  a  good  deal  of  trouble: — 


P*  John  Luddioglon  for  endeavouring  to  cvre  lh«  Bull 

Pot  olhci  help      

P*  (or  fielding  (he  Bull  and  help 

?*  for  the  Bull  tvcing  pouiKled  sevml  tlmei 

P*  (or  ihc  hi«  of  a  Bull       „ 

P*  Moni  tot  the  Bull  at  3  levcsal  lima      


334 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROL'CH    RECORDS. 


be  inntcd  wbo  were  immediately  coacerned  m  the  busiocst  o[ 
day,  and  that  a  sum  not  exceeding  £5  be  alloA'cd  for  the  ei 
incurred  on    lliai   day,  exclusive  of  the  payment  of    those  actiaJly 
employed. 

Hoes  AND  THE  HOCHEKU. 

It  will  be  recollected  that  there  are  several  early 
restraining  the  undue  keeping  of  swine  in  the  jLtVt  Cushrn 
The  following  order  with  regard  to  hogs  or  swtnc  yras : 

»553  - 

liem  lii2t  wfcomver  from  benccfonh  «Im11  hne  an;  hoe«  or  boEgm  (Oip  ft 
Ufge  in  any  pMt«  cS  tht  Iowim  or  liberties  an  hoiu«  or  roore  Iwtorn  tk  lofini 
goeth  (otthe  or  com}-ih«  honte,  &hjll  pajr  for  vtery  hogg^  \lij*  ohefvcrf  ilf  M  te 
cbamlejrn  and  i'  10  the  pinocr  u  often  «  Atf  offend. 

In  1556  it  was  ordered  thai  "no  man  resyst  the  oflfiyctral'! 
the   pyiiner  off   the  hoge&  in  hyghe  slrets   upon    payment  al  li' 
It  was  agreed  in  1594  that  no  person  whatsoever  who   vras  oc 
freeman  save  the  farmers,  should  "pull  forthe  or  keepc  any  Iw;:. 
before  the  towne  hogghearde."  upon  pain  of  12*  for  every  hoji' 
levied  by  way  of  distress. 

During  the  time  of  the  plague  in  1603,  the  order  a(  1594  «v 
re-enacted  and  amplified,  douhtle.ss  in  the  main  for  sanitary  reiMO. 
It  was  then  ordered  ihat  no  person  (save  the  farmers)  not  beiii( 
free  of  the  town  should  put  forth  or  keep  any  "  bore,  hog,  WK, 
porket,  or  wayned  pig  before  the  townc  hogheard,  or  have  aiBC 
bore,  etc..  Roeing  in  anie  streate  or  lane  or  upon  any  of  the  ton 
commons,"  under  a  penalty  of  12^.  Mo  freeman  being  an  innholdo 
or  great  brewer  was  to  keep  above  six  pigs,  and  no  otlwr  fr 
more  than  four.  No  one  was  to  suffer  any  pig  to  wander  in 
streets,  lanes,  or  commons,  save  before  the  ttogherds,  to  wit.  t^ 
town  hogherd  for  tlie  freemen,  and  the  farmers'  hogherd  fnr  ll: 
farmers.  No  inhabitant  was  to  Veep  any  pig  within  tlie  Chctiue 
Ward  unless  the  mayor  certified  that  they  had  proper  accur 
dation,  under  a  pain  of  68.  Sd. 

Complaint  being  made  to  the  corporation  in  1G16  of  the 
damage  done  to  the  town  fiicadow  by  the  number  of  swine, 
assembly  restrived  on  December  5tli,  that  the  owner  of  any 
found  abroad  not  ringed  in  the  nose  after  January-  6th,  should  pa 
12*.:  and  that  if  any  pig,  by  casually  or  otherwise,  should  bccor 
unringed,  that  it  be  new  ringed   within  three   days   by    the   own^ 


COMMONS   AND    CATTLB. 


335 


Under  a  like  penalty.  A  fine  of  6s.  8d.  was  also  ordered  to  be 
levied  on  any  (reentaa  exceeding  the  number  of  pigs  allowed  him 
by  the  order  oi  1603. 

In  the  following  year,  Edward  Downcs  and  his  wife,  who  had 
had  charge  of  the  House  of  Correction,  being  "  very  aged  and 
<l«aycd  in  their  estates.''  applied  to  the  corporation  for  a  pension. 
A  sura  ot  £4  per  annunfi  was  voted  them  provided  they  "  shalbe 
v^ant  and  careful!  in  pyoning  of  hogges  and  swine,  which  doe 
continually  runne  abroade  to  the  annoyance  oi  this  corporation 
acd  great  hurte  of  the  meadowe  groundes." 

The  assembly  of  January,  1635-6.  ordered  that  there  should 
bea 

Hcfheard  provided  (or  the  keeping  and  looking  to  of  (he  hoggt  in  thU  lowae, 
■•4  ihii  ihc  hosbeard  for  hb  payne*  shall  liave  allowed  him  [or  ever)-  hii%s  he 
wejwh  twopence  »  qiijrter  and  one  pennie  *  hogf  (or  wonting  and  shall  h»ve  for 
■^  bogs;  "^  ione  killed  in  the  owncis  house  the  Rump  ol  the  hogg  or  cU  foore 
pent  In  lieu  theteoE  and  if  Aaf  tell  enlher  hogg  or  lowe,  then  he  aUoe  (o  have 
tbttpwce. 

The  assembly  in  1594  agreed  "that  there  shalbe  a  pynfoldc 
■■de  for  the  towne  in  tbe  corner  at  the  west  gate,  at  the  charges 
*  the  towne  in  all  thinges."  This  would  serve  for  straying  hogs, 
tte,  at  this  end  of  the  town,  and  for  cattle,  elc.  illegally  turned 
•tt  00  the  Abbot's  Meadow  and  other  common  land  by  the  west 
pit 

In  1627  the  pinfold,  outside  ihe  ea&t  gate,  belonging  to  Gobion's 
'lanor,  was  paved  at  (he  charge  of  the  corporation,  and  an  order 
*>adc  that  all  farmers'  cattle  trespassing  on  any  common  belonging 
^  tlie  corporation,  were  to  be  there  Impounded.  Gobion's  manor, 
tt  will  be  remembered,  had  been  purthascd  by  the  town  in  1633, 
^tertby  their  common  rights  on  the  east  o{  Northampton  were 
Wosiderably  extended. 

A  lew  of  the  payments,  which  are  so  common  in  old  parish 
"1^8,  for  the  dcstructioa  of  vermin,  are  met  with  in  the  chamber. 
Iftins'  itcounls.  \Vc  need  not  of  course  imagine  thai  the  vermin 
ftrt  killed  within  the  walls  (though  there  were  several  fields 
"aide  llw  walls  in  tJic  seventeenth  century),  but  on  the  commons 
"t  farms  that  formed  parts  of  the  liberties.  In  1675.  one  Corby, 
'ws  paid  jd.  "  for  catching  a  hedghogg."  In  the  same  year  the 
Moldalcbcr's  wages  were  lo*."  The  mole  catcher  received  a  like 
J"Sc  for  several  years,  hut  at  other  times  he  was  obviously  paid 
tf  uuiLj;  in    1707  he  received  an  annual  wage  of  only  5s. 

Q 


»6 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


The  Lordship  of  Duston. 

After  the  dissolution  of  the  mooasterics,  commoD  right  on  ceflais'l 
lands  beyond  the  west  bridge,  and  on    the  east  side    of   the  fcwi, ' 
which  had  pertained  to  the  Abbey  of  St.  James,  were  acquired  bft 
the  town  on  a  long  lease.     These    lands  are  sometimes  spoken  of  | 
as  Duston  lordship,  and  sometimes  as  Abbot's  Meadow  and  West , 
Holme«.      The  assembly  administered  them  on   lines  quite  tode-l 
pendent  of  those   that    regulated    the    ancient  commons  or  fieUi . 
of  Northampton,  Duston  not  being  ancient  demesne,  or  witbio  tk 
bounds  ol  the  town.    Duston  ivas  an  independent  manor,  and  had 
its  own  court-leet  days,  when  the  town  did  serrice  to  the  siewifd 
of  Duston  manor. 

I'hc  following  orders  with  regard  to  the  tordship  of  Ouilai 
were  drawn  up  at  an  assembly  held  May  i6th,  1560 : — 

(ij  Imprimi*  it  ts  CaodK«nd«d  And  «gr»eil«  UmI  Ur.  John  B*tg«y  (lut  b 
treuurei  ofl  ch«  RewRUMand  proGttcs  balonzin£  to  th«  laid*  lordship*  oA  Dob 
aad  ahAlbs  accamptant  to  the  inhabitaunta  off  the  iovtoe  For  the  jrerc  fotlowia^ 

{1)  Item  the  ibbm  Bwcniblic  were  cbozen  Apointcn  aai  Kepcn  «8  the  t^K 
lordshipe,  John  BrightrnaQ  and  Willtain  Yomanti  for  (he  ytn  ful1<wtn|e. 

(3)  lt«m  il  it  Condio«nded  and  agnsRd  thai  tha  UKUurtr  nor  tlw  apetBian 
elected  For  the  yerc  ihall  not  let  nor  set  no  parcell  off  ihe  aalde  lonbh^K  bf 
Icoae  (or  terme  of  yere4  without  the  Coraeftl  off  the  matais  Ear  the  time  T>i«4,i  mJ 
■Idactnon  cf  the  ctiamber  and  Ma  oobntbcni. 

(4)  Item  Ihe  vride  apoinlen  shall  hare  off  taj  leamr  vj*  viij'  om-  and  boSte 
th«f  fine  to  the  uac  «f  the  Chamber  in  Reoompwioe  of  iher  trsvaile  at  tha  jc*Ah 
td  any  such  Icaae  *a  letten.  And  nu>rt  For  ther  tnraile  ihey  ahall  kava  lee  tht 
neaaurinfe  and  lajringe  foitfae  ot  aoj  Aoe  off  tfiaase  liij'  and  fof  the  lulS  Aav.'j 
ij*  And  for  iba  Roode  a  pennf. 

(5)  Ilefn  il  is  igrttdt  that  evnie  inhabilacte  o(    ike    towne   thall    pajr  (crth* 
First  Croppe  off  everic  Acre  ofl  niedow  vj*  otct  and   besides  the   apointen   duM^J 

(6)  Item  (I  !■  agreed   thai    no   inhabilauiu   of   this   towne  iiuka  pretUon  rfj 
grtsM  to  thit  endc  to  fdl  it  «ccyn  uato  anj'  laan  above  the  price   More   IjiiiW 
or  ells  (0  mahe  the  tajde  pus  in  hey  and  (o  sell  the  urn;  by  (nsavfa  tlwl 
end  of  the  ycre  at  a  hyw  price  uppon  poync  of  the  firu    default  x*  tn    be  luijj^ 
tit  iber  fooia  and  eattels  to  ibe  use  oj  the  Clumber,  and  Pot  IW  ■ecueul 
then  to  lose  the  benefit  oft  Iher  portion  iKit  he  and   she   wer   accutfoniad  te  iam] 
for  aver,  provided  y(  tJie  pani«i  that  shall  m  oRood  be  not  of    habilitie    to  fj  ^ 
(or  the  faicelM  ot  this  order,  th«y  to  be  Imprtsoaed  at  ibe  will  and  plaaauR  of  Hl  ' 
Major. 

(;)     Item   II   li   afreeda  that  no   inhabltaualea  of  thb  lawM    ;■■ 
'Caitell  into  say  grouttit  or  groutide*  batlon^Bgc  iinto  the   «alda   Ur-  1 

tbe  Consent  of  the  Apwntan  or  KefWn  nppon  lyke  pafwaa   before   expienad 


COMMONS  AND  CATTLE.  IVJ 

\wty  For  IIr  linl  oflraee  z*  and  liw  ceeoBd  to  loto  th*  benefit  at  thet  portiua 

llcm  thAi  BO  InluUuai  off  tkb  ta«ne  mysssc  bimscW  towardes  ibe 
W  apotat^  M  Kepan  by  no  caaleflliMis  word**  or  otltM  waiei  (or  tbei 
upon  pajm  of  ibe  fint  delauli  iiij'  iiij*  ...  to  be  levyed  pKsentljw 
dM  pniRc  madr  bji^i  his  euodea  «i>d  Cattails  to  tti«  mm  off  tk«  Chambtr 
if  lb*  panii  so  offendinge  be  not  of  hubiliie  to  pay  Iht  ome  above 
■■niloneil  then  to  be  panUhcd  by  (he  dlscrcctioe  of  th«  maiour  for  ihc  time 
Ufljgc  qnd  (or  Ike  fccDod  offence  to  to»e  llt«  beticfiti  of  ibcT  portion  whiche  th«y 
■crtMoRMd  to  have. 

i)     Ilom  iha  traaaorer  apojattrs  ahall  gitv  ape  tbci  acooiplca  of  all  and  tingtu 

:c«  j^TowiflgiB  of  tha  laid  lofilt)up«  for  tb«r   yerc  at  th«  F«aM   ot  Sayat 

jrf  ii  tall  not  on  the  aooday  or   llw   Mlterday  provydcd    y(   It   so   happen 

Uicy  to  hnowa  Mr.  Maicca*  pl«uurv  fot  tha  maltinj;*  of  iber  aM«inp(e. 

(lO)     llera  that  no  inhabUaant  of  thti  lownr   that    shall   giett   any  Cattcll  into 

!e  or  gronade*  belonfpnpe  unto  the  lordstiipe  thall  pay  for  any  ctldtaj* 

aj*  by  th«  welK  and  (or  erery  Cowe  ilj"  for  the   First    Croppe.  Atid  for 

Croppe  If*  th«  s«ldlns  oi  maxe  and  j'  of  avcry  Cowe,  provydid   thai   no 

yball  pat  in  do  stoned  hortyt,  nor    mangje    bafM   nor    mare   upon    payne   of 

iS}*  to  th«  u*e  ef  tbc  Chamber. 

is  found  from  subsequent  minutes  of  llie  assembly,  that  it 
the  custom  to  cleft  in  the  spring,  a  treasurer  for  the  lordship 
DstOD  for  the  coming  year,  and  one  of  the  two  appointcra  for 
riod  of  two  years,  the  junior  appoiiiter  of  one  year  becoming 
'senior  a^qwintcr  in  the  next.  liiach  appointer,  on  hi&  nomination, 
had  to  give  suBicicnt  security  for  the  making  of  a  Inie  account 
and  payment  of  all  the  rents,  revenues,  and  receipts  that  he  shall 
t  and  gather.  Forty  shillings  was  allowed  to  the  appoinlcrs 
,ying  the  expenses  of  the  dinner  given  by  the  steward  of 
uMoa  each  court  day,  in  addition  to  the  steward's  fee  of  six  and 
etghtpencc.  On  two  or  three  occasions  in  Elizabeth's  reign,  the 
am>ointcrs  were  warned  that  any  excess  of  the  forty  shilling<i  for 
tJw  court  dinners  would  be  disallowed  if  it  appeared  in  their 
accounts. 

n  ito6  the  assembly  ordered 

Mr.  Ceor{«  Coldwcll  Mr.  Gvoigt  Rayneiford  Mr.  Edward  Hcnscmao  aad 
loma*  Judkm  of  anie  twee  of   ibcm   sbali  fo(lb»!lh   take  tkeir   joaracy    to 
ijCbl  Hoaourable  Ladie  bte  tadK  Hatton   now«  Ladie  Cooke  and  consort  aad 
wncloiJa  aith  bar  abovt  tho  ealarginf  of  our  term  in   the  Lordahip  of  Duaton  vho 
d«lKTfnynad  lo  conTny«  hmt  ettate  awaye  fth«r  ihexpiratioo    of    our    l«^alae  in 
wad  that  the  aaide  two  peraooa  taking  their  journey  in  ibii  behalfe  *hall  hare 
<k»tt,r>  defrayed  by  the  lowtte  chamber. 

n  1569  "orders  were  newly  devised  and  augmented  for  the  better 

2  2 


338 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


governemeiit  of  the  lordship  off   Duston."   of  which  the  foUowinj 
is  an  abstract : — The  officers  to  be  elected    by  the  whole  assembly 
on  Thursday  In  Easier    week,  one  to    scr\'c   for  two  years.     Any 
inhabitant    refusing  oi)    election   to  serve,   to   be    fined    205.     Thc— 
owners  and  appointers  each  to  have,  over  and  above  their  portioflfl 
as    freeniei),  an   acre   of    grass,  and    the  grazing  for  a  gelding  or 
marc  and  a  cow  wtthln  the  pastures  without  any  charge,  and  this 
in  addition  to  6s.  Sd.  in  money.    No  inhabitant,  save  the  alderoDea, 
to  have  more  than  half  an  acre  of  grass  as  their  portion,  unless  it 
can  be  conveniently  spared  by  the  appointers-    Inhabitants  or  theil 
servants  arc  not  to  cut  down  or  break  hedges,  gates,  rails,  styEc 
locks,  hooks,  hinges,  staples,  or  hasps,  under  a  pain  of  6s.  Sd.  fc 
everj-  offence.     Every  inh.ibitant  putting  cattle  into  any  ground 
the  lordship   shall  go  to   to  the  appointers  and  pay  for  the  said 
cattle  for  one  whole  month  on  terms  to  be  agreed  upon ;  and  that 
at  the  end  of  ihc  month,  if  de.iirous  of    continuing,  he    is  to  visit 
the  officer  or  officers  at  his  or  their  house  or  houses,  and  to  make 
fresh  terms  for  the  next  month,  and  so  forth.     Any  one  turning  out 
cattlecontraryto  this  order  to  have  his  cattle  impounded  by  the  keeper, 
and  to  pay  4d.  a  head  in  addition  to  the  poundage  fee.    Any  inhabi- 
tant turning  out  stoned  horses,  mangj-  cattle,  or  cattle  that  "  morne 
of  the  Chyne,"  to  be  fined  4d.  for  each  beast.     All  cattle  placed  in 
this  lordship  to  be  marked  with  a  mark  to  be  fixed  by  the  appointer. 
Unmarked  cattle  to   be   impounded   by  the   keeper,  and   a  line  c£ 
4d.  per  head  imposed.    Every  one  to  pay  a  penny  for  the  miritiag 
of  each  beast.     The  treasurer  of  the  revenue  may  at  all  times  call  M 
before  him  Uie  appointers,  and  examine  their  books  and  proceeding.  " 
The  appointers  to  do  no    repairs    without    the    approval  of    itie 
treasurer,   and   to    make    monthly   accounts  and    payments  to  ibftj 
treasurer  under  pain  of  3s.  4d.  for  every  day  in  arrear. 

In  the  summer  of  1613  so  much  damage  was  done  to  the  Dusk 
meadow  grounds  by  floods,  which    ruined    the   hay   crop,  thai  tf%< 
corporation,  fearing  they  would    not  be  able   to   pay   the   rent 
Lord  Cooke,  decided  on    July    22nd    to    set    out  the  West  HoFin' 
and    Abbot's    Meadow    amongst    their    members.      An    acre  wr 
assigned  to  each  aldennan,  an  acre   to    every   two  bailiffs,  and 
acre    to  every    two  of    the    forty-eight.     In  case  of   the  refuia\ 
any  of  them  to  accept  their  portion,  the  aldermen  refusing  ner* 
pay  each   ten   shillings  towards   the    making    up  of  the  rent, 
bailiffs  or  burgesses  6ve  shillings. 


COMMONS  AND  CATTLE.  229 

It  was  provided  in  1602  that  the  appointer  of  the  lordship  of 
DustOD  should  not  fell  or  cut  down  any  wood  or  willows  or  thorns 
«r  t(^  of  the  trees  without  consent  of  the  mayor  or  the  treasurer 
of  Dnston  for  the  time  being. 

During  the  commonwealth,  the  town  endeavoured,  but  in  vain, 
to  obtain  through  purchase,  the  lands  of  the  Duston  lordship  which 
thejr  had  previously  had  on  lease. 

The  assembly  of  September  i6th,  1652,  voted  £5  each  to  Mr. 
Tw^den  and  Mr.  Collins  to  enable  them  to  repair  to  London  with 
letters  to  Mr.  Gifford,  and  to  join  with  him  in  soliciting  the  trustees 
of  Parliament  for  the  sale  of  delinquents'  estates,  to  obtain  a 
purchase  of  the  meadows  and  mills  belonging  to  the  lordship  of 
Duston  on  behalf  of  the  corporation. 


section  six. 
Public     Health. 


The  plaguk  of  1578 — Tbk  attacks  op  1603-s — Thb  collbgk  usbd  as  a  plaguk 
House — Terrible  attack  in  1638— Parochial  returns  of  the  deaths  from 
FLAGus — Lkttrr  prom  Dr.  Clarke  to  Sir  John  Laubb — Shorter  attack  of 
1638 — Outbreak  of  1648 — Choice  of  the  tower  house  as  an  infectious 
hospital — Account  of  the  tower  house — Watch  and  ward  during  London 
PLAGUE  OF    1666 — Fire   at   Cotton    end,    1561 — Precautionary    Elizabethan 

ORDERS  AOAtNST  FIRS — ToWN    FIRB   BUCKBTS  KEPT  IN  THE  CHURCHES — PRECAUTIONS 

OF  1643— The  great  fire  of  1675— Resolutions  of  the  assembly— Relief  of 
THE  distressed— Ninety-nine  years'  leases  on  condition  of  rebuilding— 
The  rebuilding  act  op  parliament  and  its  working — Benefactors'  board, 
All  Saints — Later  fires — The  great  and  little  conduits — Drought  of 
1608,  and  restrictions  on  hours  of  water  supply — Use  of  conduits  forbidden 
TO  brewers  and  innkeepers — Shops  and  bridewell  under  conduit  hall — 
Houses  built  at  the  conduit,  1685-6  —  Scarlet  well  waterworks  —  The 
WATERWORKS  OF  William  Wykes  —  Tank  at  wood  hill —  Little  conduit 
removed  in  1831 — Water  carts— Public  pumps  and  wells — St.  Thomas' 
WELL  —  The  chalybeate  spring  of  Vigo  and  the  new  walk  —  Sanitary 
condition  of  the  streets  and  houses  —  Town  muck  heaps  —  Sanitary 
OVERSEERS  —  Overcrowding  —  Paving  of  the  highways  —  Appointment  of 
scavenger  —  Ltgbting  of  the  streets  —  Skavage  due  —  Incroachments  — 
Scavengers  appointed  by  statute. 


M 


PUBLIC    HEALTH. 


333 


THE    PLAGUE. 


TN    sixty    years,    namely,   between    1578   and  1638,  Northampton 
■        had  no  less  than  four  visitations  of  the  terrible  plague,  namely, 
Hit  1378,  1603,  1605,  and  i63is,     Considerinj;   the  times,  the   town's 
^aniury  precautions  and    methods  of  isolation   were  most   praise- 
worthy and  distinctly  in  advance  of  those  adopted  in  some  other 
pans  of   the  country. 

At  an  assembly    held   at    the  guildhall,  on  October  13th.  1578, 

H^  was  resolved  that  all  the  houses  that  were   visited    in    Kinj^es- 

well  Lane  were  to  be  shut  up,  and  "  Lord  have  mercyt  uppon  us  " 

set  upon  the  doors:  that  those  who  were  able  to  live  at  their  own 

charges  were  to  do  so.  and    the  rest    to   be  provided   for  by  the 

town ;    that   houses  elsewhere    that    might  be  visited  were  to  be 

^treated  in  like  manner;   and  that  the  writing  was  to  be  continued 

|bn   the    doors   for   twenty    days  after  any  died.     Three  men  were 

chosen  as   purveyors    to  buy    vtctualx    for    the  visited   houses,  to 

continue  in  office   until    November  24th.     At    the  same   lime  an 

assessment  was  ordered  to  be  made  and    levied  "for   such   as  are 

visited  to  continewe  for  a  monthe,  to   b^yne  the   second   day  of 

November  ncit  comeingc  and  so  monethelie  untyll  yt  please  God 

I  that  the   Towne  be  cleaiie  o[  the  Sickenes."     The  names  of   the 

Ksessors  and  collectors  are  given  for  the  chequer  ward,  and  (or 

kbc  west,  south,  and  north  quarters,  from  which    it  would  appear 

It  the  east  quarter  was  clean. 

The  plague  had  by  no  means  decreasMl  as  the  winter  progressed, 
it   was  ordered   on    December  4tl)    that    ihe  purveyors  shall 

;kly  buy  victuals  for  the  visited  houses  until  the  town  be  clean, 
that  the  collectors  of  the  cess  for  this  purpose  gather  their 
f&  fortnightly  instead  of  monthly. 

another  assembly  was  held  on  December  agtii,  when  a  variety 

irdcr*    relative   to    the   plague    were    passed.     Two    burgessess 

appointed,  at  a   salary  of    2od.  a    week    each,  to  "serve   all 

persons    as    shall    happen   to    dye."    and    to  certify  to  the 

minister  the  cause  of  death  "  as  nere  as  they  can."     Four 

bbmen  were  appointed  in  each  of  the  five  wards  (the  sickness 


aS4 


NORTHAMPTON'    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


ors 

i 


had  spread  to  tlic  cast),  whose  duty  it  was  to  see  that  visit 
people  rctnainrd  in  their  houses,  and  that  "  Lorde  have  mercy  up 
us"  was  nol  pulled  of!  tlie  doors  in  the  nighl  time.  Tlie  hours  for 
these  special  watchmen  (the  constables  being  responsible  during 
the  daytime)  were  from  S  o'clock  in  the  evening  until  4  o'clock 
in  Uie  morning. 

With  the  new    year    the    severity    of    the    sickness  began 
abate,    though    not    subdued.      On    January'    39th,    I578>9,    it  w 
agreed  ttiat  it  was   necessary'   to  conttnui*  the  ce&s   for   the  reli 
of   the   visited  until   further  order    be    taken    by    the   mayor  and 
justices. 

Two  months  later  it    was  still   lingering,  for  on   March  ijt 
1378-9,   a   small  cess  had  stiH    to    be   collected   for   the    visited 
people  "according  to  the  number  of  them,"  and   three   purveyors 
for  the  ptircliase  of  victuals  were  again  appointed. 

The  terrible  plague  of  1603-4,  which  brokfl  out  on  theaocessi 
of  James  [.,  and  of    which    no    less    than   30,578   persons  died 
London  only,  visited  Northampton.      Precautionary  measures  w 
taken   by   the  assembly  at  the   meeting  on    September    ist,  1603. 
The  following  order  was  tlien  passed : — 

U'herciFia  iha  Clde  of  London  ys  visited  with  «  zHerous  and  contaflous  dbeaae; 
and   ky  reaion  of  rc«art  and  travelling  lo  the  Miidc  citio  to  kai  fto  the  inforlion  j» 
iprtad  into  divene  pLins  of  his  ma"  realmeof  England,  for  tbe  better  prucrTiition 
of  this  kit  ma,*'  boruugho  nnd  subjects  there  from  ihe  wiide  Contusion    (If  jr  loe 
ple««  tbe   AlmiEhiio,  »s  of  his  onelie  merit  he  hath  hitherto  preserved  the  sine 
borwughe  »iid  inhabitants)  It  ys  ai^recd  and  ordered  th.H  yi  at  anic  tyme  or  tynMS 
during  the  spa.»  of  one  whole   moncihe  a^comptinj;   ivrentie  and  eigbte  dayo  to  the 
Bionctb  niKt  ensuelni;  John  Slierwyn  the  carryer  of  ihii  towne  and  £asle  Ihe  <r*)[Eon- 
man  there  or  cither  of  them  or  anie  other   Irhabilsnt  withia  this  towi<e  whatvoerer 
shall  travell  or  goe  to  London  nforecaliie  without  convont  of  the  Mayor  of  ih«uide 
townc  for  ihc  lyme  being,  That  then  yt  ihalbe  lawful!  for  the  Mayor  10  take  luche 
order  and  course  as  shalbe  thought  fitt,  and  by  suck  wayei  and  meaecaas  heshill 
tbink  fiti    M    hli  diVr«tion,  to    keep  tuch    penun   loe  Kodng  simI    relumed  (rom 
coming  into  th«  saide   townc,  and   also  yf  anle  persoD    or  persona  gucing   up  10 
London  and  rettiming  shjill   without  the  coetenl  of  the  M.iyor  goc  into  his  at  btr 
dwdling  howse,  thai  yC  ihalbe  tavrfiitl  for  the  Mayor  lo  take  MM,'h  otder  and  connc 
**  he  shall  thinke  in«et  arcordSng  to  hia  good  discretion  as  well  forthe  pannkeit^ 
of  ail  and  erarie  suche  person  and  person*  as   aI«o  for  the  incloalng  aad  kaepinc 
up  the  saide  person  or  pcnoni  within  his  her  or  their  howse  or  hos-sea  for  to  **"( 
a  tyme  and  In  snche  manner  as  the  Mayor  sh»ll  Ihinke   fin  and  convenicnl  is  ka 
aiiscreliuii. 

Notwithstanding  these  precautions,  by  the  end  of  the  month  ilic 


PUBLIC   HEAtTH. 


S3S 


pbj^e   was   in    Northamptwi,    as    is  evidenced   by    the    following 
and  |)reamble  passed  ia  assembly  on  September  36th : — 

Vi'licrviti  ft  ys  ItMni  iImI  divtnn  hawses  within  ihii  towne  Are  iefortMl  wtth  the 
pl»p4v,  for  ih«  pnv^Mltig  oF  aoie  lanber  infection  within  the  aide  towoc  tkan  the 
buoim  iyt  ft  MS  ptcue  God),  It  b  ordctcd  that  All  howMi  tutpectcd  to  be 
i«(l  skJba  kbut  vp,  and  lb«   penont  thwdn  kapt  to,  xad  that   iben  shalbe 
cl  ibinhabitaaCs  of  babilitSt,  for  tha  keeping  of  lucbc  as  arc  not  of  abdiitia 
keep  ihrm^TcS)  and  for  the  pdjange  of   watchmen    vcwen   and  mnkins  olber 
■DC  prov)>ioa  in  lh*t  bclwilfe  (he  ivme  of  Tvrenlie  mark*  of  good  and  lawfall 
of  England  for  one  inoa«lhes  ptovMon  (o  beginne  und  be  accoRi]Med  froni 
Am  foan  and  twandrtb  dafv  ot  ibb  inatani   monrtb  of  Sc^caiber,  attd   thni  thoe 
jf*t^m»  falAwlitg  m  th*  more  part  of  tbem  tball  jumimv  ibe  tnliitHtAnI*,  etc 

Ten  a^sesMors  were  appoinLcd,  the  cess  to  be  collected  by  tbe 
ward  cotisiables.  Two  standing  watchmen  for  the  day  were  hired, 
11  whose  duly  il  was  to  carry  to  l.bc  infected  their  provisions.  The 
^H»tague  was  then  only  in  two  of  the  Btc  wards,  natnely,  the  south 
^nwd  ibc  north  (through  which  the  great  London  road  parsed) : 
W  two  purveyors  to  purchase  food  and  all  things  ncccssarj-  for  the 
iofcctcd,  were  appointed  (or  cacb  of  these  wards. 

At  the  end  of  three  weeks  the  plague  spread  so  fast  that  it 
^_was  found  that  the  months'  levy  of  twenty  marks  would  in  no 
jHlvay  suffice,  and  therefore  a  new  cess  was  voted  by  the  assembly 
on  October  14th,  at  tlie  rate  of  £20  a  month.  It  was  also  found 
necessary  to  appoint  puri-eyors  and  overseers  for  each  of  the 
II  wards.  To  the  overseers  was  assigned  the  duty,  in  their  several 
^■irards,  of  reporting  (for  the  space  of  a  whole  year)  the  advent  of 
i^tll  new  comers  into  the  town.  Their  reports  were  to  be  made 
II  in  writing  to  the  mayor,  and  ihcy  were  to  meet  together  at 
^■cast  once  a  quarter  for  the  purpose  of  drawing  up  a  more  general 
^report.     Any  overseer  neglecting  his  duty  was  to  be  fined  20s. 

On   November   7th  it  was  agreed  that,  during  the  continuance 
_o(  the  plague,  a   watch  should  be   set    both    by  day  and  night  in 
|be  west    and    north    roads;   th«  hours  of  the  day  watch    to    be 
6  o'olock  in  the  morning  to  6  in  the  evening,  at  which  time 
le  night    w;itch  was  set  ;  the  six  day  watchmen  for  the  day,  and 
lifac  number  for  the  night,   were  to  be  taken,  two  from  the 
ward,    and    one    from    each    of    the    other    wsrds ;    the 
\  __        <:»  to  be  warned  by  the  several  sergeants  of  the  ward,  and 
10  be  directed  by   the   ward  constable   as    to   the   place  of  their 
watch :    each    watchman    to    be    s^vom  to  the   due   and   diligent 
}b>erv:ance  of  his  ofHcc. 


336 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


In  the  next  few  months  the  order  (or  the  £li  monthly  cess  to 
be  levied  was  regularly  rcpiealctl  owing  to  the  continuance  of  the 
visitation.  The  assembly  also  interested  itself  in  practical  sanitary 
matters,  such  as  regulating  the  duties  of  the  town  scavenger,  and 
providing  against  the  excessive  keeping  of  pigs  within  the  town* 
An  order  was  nnade  on  November  nth  against  any  one  keeping 
pigs  save  freemen ;  that  no  freeman,  being  an  inuholdcr  or  brewer, 
shall  keep  above  six  pigs ;  that  no  other  freeman  shall  keep  above 
four ;  and  that  no  one  keep  a  pig  in  the  chequer  ward,  unless 
tie  has  suitable  convenience  for  the  same  allowed  by  the  mayor. 
The  plague  still  continued,  though  somewhat  abated,  in  May,  1G04; 
from  the  18th  of  that  month  a  cess  of  £\2  was  ordered  to  be 
levied  for  the  relief  of  the  visited  houses. 

In  October,  1605,  the  dreaded  sickness  reappeared  in  North- 
ampton: the  assembly  held  on  October  tith  ordered  that  any  one 
who  shall  "  goe  abroade  or  converse  tn  companye  "  from  an  infected 
house,  shall  be  "punished  as  a  vagabond  in  all  respects  should  or 
ought  lo  be  by  the  statute  made  in  the  xxxix*^  ycre  of  the  Kcigne 
of  our  late  Soucraigne  Ladie  Qucne  Elizabeth  for  the  punishment  of 
Roagucs  and  vagabondes,  and  further  to  be  boundc  to  bis  good 
behaviour  for  one  whole  year." 

At  the  same  time  it  was  enacted  "for  the  belter  watching  and 
keeping  in  of  all  and  everie  person  or  persons  infected  or  being 
or  dwelling  in  any  howsc  infected,  and  that  the  poorer  sorte  of 
people  may  not  be  oppressed  by  an  unequall  proportion  in 
watching "  that  the  duty  of  watching  by  night  and  day  be  dis- 
charged by  men  hired  for  the  purpose  by  the  mayor,  and  thai  they 
arc  to  be  paid  by  a  cess  levied  on  fifteen  of  the  principal  inhabi- 
tants occupying  "  bowses  of  habitation." 

It  is  somewhat  remarkable,  amid  various  sanitary  precautions, 
to  find  that  those  who  died  of  the  plague  were  for  the  most  part 
buried  within  the  walls.  The  very  year  before  tlic  terrible  out- 
break, the  as-iiembly,  on  October  20th.  1602.  when  leasing  tic 
churchyard  of  the  ruinous  church  of  St.  Katharine,  stipulated  that 
there  should  be  "free  libcrtic  for  the  buiriall  in  the  saide  churcbe 
yardc  of  all  such  dead  as  y*  shall  please  God  at  anie  tyme  to  visiti. 
with  the  plague  or  anie  other  extraordinaric  or  infectious  dcalh» 
and  free  and  quiet  ingressc,  cgrcsse,  and  regresse  for  that  pur 
at  all  times." 


PUBLIC    HEALTH.  237 

From  an  entry  made  in  the  order  book  in  1607  it  appears  that 
Abraham  Ventris,  at  the  request  of  the  mayor  and  aldermen, 
was  content  to  give  up  his  house  called  the  college,  at  the  time  of 
the  1603-5  visitation,  "to  the  intent  thither  and  there  to  bring  and 
place  infected  persons."  The  assembly  voted  him  40s.  by  way  of 
compensation  for  the  injury  done  to  his  house. 

Much  alarm  was  felt  at  Northampton  in  1625  lest  the  plague,  so 
prevalent  then,  should  reach  the  town.  It  was  ordered  on  September 
19th  that  no  inhabitant  "  shall  at  anie  tyme  hereafter  during  this 
tyme  of  infection  buy,  bargaine  for,  entertayne,  or  receive  into 
this  libertie  any  wares  or  marchandise  whatsoever  that  shall  come 
from  the  City  of  London  or  from  anie  other  infected  place  in  this 
kingdome,  and  also  that  noe  carier  in  this  libertie  shall  at  anie  tyme 
hereafter  during  the  said  infection  fetch  load  or  carie  anie  wares  or 
marchandise  from  anie  infected  place  upon  payne  of  everie 
inhabitant  and  carier  offending  in  the  premisses  that  he  shall  have 
his  howse  shutt  up  with  his  familie  for  one  moneth,  and  further 
punishment  at  Mr.  Mayor's  discretion  for  his  contempt."  It  was 
further  ordered  that  no  innkeeper  or  victualler  was  to  entertain 
or  lodge  anyone  coming  from  London  or  any  other  infected  place 
under  a  similar  penalty.  Stringent  injunctions  were  also  made 
with  regard  to  keeping  watch  and  ward  night  and  day.  These 
precautions  seem  to  have  been  successful,  for  at  this  time  North- 
ampton escaped  the  terrible  scourge. 

The  plague  was  very  severe  in  the  town  in  1638.  In  St. 
Sepulchre's  it  seems  to  have  begun  about  the  end  of  March ;  for, 
under  the  heading  of  March  29,  the  following  entry  occurs  in  the 
register  of  burials  :—"Att  which  time  the  sickness  beegan."  It 
would  seem  to  have  run  its  course  by  the  end  of  the  year,  for  on 
January  i  we  read : — "  At  which  time  the  Lord  bee  praised  the 
sickness  ceased." 

In  1638  there  were  actually  114  deaths  in  the  parish  of  St. 
Sepulchre,  though  the  average  number  for  five  years  was  only 
eighteen. 

The  following  table,  compiled  by  Revd.  R.  M.  Serjeantson  from 
the  register  of  the  four  parishes,  shows  the  mortality  during  the 
visitations  of  1578,  1603,  1605,  and  1638,  accompanied  by  the  usual 
death  average  : 


238 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RRCORDS. 


e 

n 

< 

i'- 

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e 

is 

r 

AU  Saints'      ,.. 

'M 

n 

107 

411 

VI 

a47 

j» 

Sl  Giles'        ... 

ai 

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... 

aa 

tX3 

n 

" 

I8S 

a 

St.  Pclcr"*      ... 

9 

« 

i« 

i6 

4 

... 

»9 

I 

Sl.  S«pukbr^s. 

i6 

t 

SS 

H 

» 

"4 

II 

T«ul       ... 

i6t> 

m 

aji 

635 

m 

«S 

itt 

In  many  cases  plague  is  written  before  the  entry  ;  in  others  p  or  ftest. 

In  [638,  the  distress  was  so  great  that  the  county  had  to  come 
to  the  rescue. 

The  Domestic  State  Papers  contain  aa  intcrealine  letter  from 
Dr.  Samuel  Clarke,  the  rector  of  St.  Peter's,  to  Sir  John  Lambe, 
diocesan  chancellor,  dated  June  t7lh,  1638,  of  which  the  following  b 
a  summary  : — The  sickness  is  nore  at  Northampton.  Tlic  deaths  in 
the  last  three  weeks  have  been — of  the  plague  26,  16,  and  j^. 
Before  the  last  sessions  Prince's  attorney  and  myself  made  a  lu 
for  the  5-mLle  towns,  and  at  the  sessions  I  got  an  enlargement  with 
much  reluctance  over  the  whole  county.  The  first  was  ,^48  weekly, 
the  second  /lOO  more  and  the  market  is  kept  on  Northampton 
Heath.  In  requital  of  my  love  and  pains  they  do  now  what  they 
list  in  the  church  service  at  AH  Saints  Northampton.  Some  vety 
lately  cut  the  rail  or  caned  that  was  about  the  Lords  board  in 
pieces  and  brought  doun  the  Lord's  table  into  the  middle  of  the 
chancel.  I  long  since  advised  the  Mayor  and  his  bretheren  that  the 
Thursday  lecture  and  sermons  on  Sundays  in  the  aftemone  should 
be  foreborne  in  these  infeaious  times.  They  then  raised  a  report 
of  me  that  1  was  about  to  starve  their  souls.  You  may  do  well  to 
acquaint  his  grace  with  so  much  of  this  as  you  please.  The 
schismatics!  Puritans  now  bring  their  appeals  from  the  audience, 
as,  viz.  the  churchwardens  of  Towcester,  for  not  presenting  80  or 
100  of  their  parish  i\'ho  refused  to  receive  the  Blessed  Sacrament 
at  the  cancel  at  Easter  last,  and  one  Mr.  Gierke  (my  namesake)  of 


PUBLIC    HEALTH. 


339 


Eastcote  la  the  parish  of  Pattishall,  for  calling  the  divine  sermons 
porndge  and  the  long  puritan   sermons   roast  meat. 

The  a&seinhty  petitioned  parliament,  in  1640,  to  interfere  as  to 
ibe  disposal  of  the  "  mony  in  stocke  in  the  Justices  hands  of  the 
Countie  gathered  for  reliefe  of  the  Corporation  in  the  late  Visitation 
of  the  Plague  to  helpe  as  well  divers  Inhahitants  decayed  in  the 
Corporation  by  reason  thereof,  as  diverse  workmen  and  labourers 
as  yet  unsatisfied." 

Xorthampton  again  suffered  heavily   from  the  plague  in   1647. 

^^kt  an  assembly  held  on  September  [6lh  of  that  year   a  cess  was 

^fbted  of  ^loo   "  for  relief    and   provision  to    be  made  for  visited 

f     how-ses    and   persons   infected    with    the    plague."      It   was  at  the 

same  time   ordered  that  no    inhabitant    that   had    any    manner  of 

swine  or  dogs  should  suffer  them  lo  go  abroad  at  any  time  under 

^pain  of  5s.  for  each  offence.     The  last  order  of  this  assembly  was 
|B  follows: — 
T01 
tl»i 


taF 


Wheraas  il  lulh  pleated  Cod  to  »«nd  ibU  henvie  rifiUtioo  of  (he  plaj^uc  in  ifaii 
TowfMi  u  aforaulde.  wwrall  mora  howMs  in  lh«  ume  being  ttawv  infected,  whenin 
then  Of  Mvanll  hmilio,  sad  in  thct  tl  is  ailjud^d  ilut  the  nowc  aettiac  up  of 
a  tww  p«R  howw  in  itonM  pUc«,  Ramot*  from  tb^  towne,  in  thit  liborti«,  to  thtAi 
frotn  the  wholl  in  ictpecte  of  the  appronching  Winter,  wilbe  of  n  danjcrout 
inscquvaCv,  And  if  appeannj;  lo  thi»  AisemWie  that  there  i»  a  conrenient  howw 
out  of  ihv  hen  of  ih«  Towne  neare  the  mefldowes  nnd  fields,  whiche  wilbe  uj^uII 
in  lh'13  bchiKc,  cnlled  the  Tower  bowse.  It  Is  agreed  and  ortlcrMi  ihai  tlie  snide 
Tower  KowM  shall^e  forthwith  taken  and  used  in  thi*  behalfe.  And  that  ths  praaent 
tenanU  there  shalbe  ochenrise  prnrided  for. 

I  The  town  register  of  the  four  parishes  are  either  defective  or 

^^lissing  for  this  period,  so  that  we  cannot  judge  of  the  comparative 
^Heverity  of  tbc  attack. 

^B  The  Tower  of  Northampton,  now  put  to  such  an  excellent 
^^urpose,  was  a  large  building  connected  with  a  lofty  square  tower 
i  or  keep  at  the  west  end.  It  stood  within  the  walls  in  the  south- 
^Ko^t  quarter  of  the  tou'n,  and  had  formed  part  of  the  system  of 
^^ortiflcation  of  the  smaller  Anglo-Norman  town.  Mention  is  made 
of  it  in  a  mandate  to  the  sheriff  temfi.  Henry  II.  In  1218,  the 
Oose  Rolls  record  the  appointment  of  a  commission  to  see  to  the 
repair  of  the  Tox^-er.  In  the  days  of  Henry  IV.  it  was  in  the 
baads  of  John  Neville,  Lord  Latimer,  and  was  granted,  under  the 
name  of  Latimer's  Tower,  to  John  de  Etton  in  the  nth  year  of 
that  reign.  In  the  time  of  Richard  III.  it  was  in  the  possession 
n*  Jolin  Chauncey,  and  continued  in  that  family  for  a  considerable 


340 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


period.  In  the  reign  of  Charles  I.  it  was  owned  by,  and  was  the- 
residence  of.  Sir  John  Lambe,  the  active  chancellor  of  tlie  diocese 
of  Peterborough.  "In  the  barns  belonging  to  this  structure," 
according  to  the  Hall  MS.,  "  during  the  rebellion  were  set  lar^e- 
vau  to  receive  the  saltpetre  which  was  dug  out  of  the  old 
cellars  in  the  Tower,  and  prepared  for  a  gunpowder  mill,  standing- 
in  the  brook  which  runs  from  St.  Thomas'  Hospital  on  the  north  side 
of  Cow  Meadow."  The  Tower  House  disappeared  in  the  fire  of 
1675,  but  the  field  where  it  stood  was  known  for  a  long  time  as 
"  the  Tower  Close." 

The  following  incidental  reference  to  the  plague  occurs  anrongst 
the 'ordcfii  made  by  the  assembly  on  October  5th,  t666: — 

"That  Mr.  Stamford  and  Mr  Boddinglon  >•"  present  Bayliffs  be 
considered  and  assisted  by  the  Towne  in  payment  of  the  Fee 
Farm  charge  If  it  shall  please  God  to  afflict  this  Towne  with  the 
Plague  or  any  such  Calamity  whereby  the  Faires  and  marketts 
shalbc  hindered  or  stopt." 

A  watch  and  ward  was  at  this  time  strictly  imposed  on  the 
town  for  the  obvious  purpose  of  restricting  the  danger  of  infection 
from  London.  The  town  at  this  time  mercifully  escaped,  and  (or 
two  and  a  half  centuries  this  awful  disease  has  never  recurred. 

Fire. 

The  first  entry  in  the  orders  of  assembly  relative  to  the  common 
calamity  of  fire  is  the  brief  record,  under  date  April  30th,  1561, 
that  "Mr.  Bot,  Mr.  Whit.  Mr.  .Menard,  and  Mr.  Watts,  Corviser 
(shoemaker)  were  apointcd  to  viewe  the  howscs  that  wer  burnt  in 
Coton  Ende." 

The  assembly  of  June  i6th,  1570,  made  the  following  elaboiaie 
order : — 

Porumoche  as  divene  and  sundry  times  this  boraught  of  Nortbamptoa  haUm 
hoilile  great  loMca  by  (vuiultica  of  fjrcn  and  •pedally  by  ncgiigeoce  bjr  tkking  kola 
In  inalie  kylln«*  to  the  undainge  of  many  of  ths  inh«bitaunt«s  of  tbe  boroutfae 
An<i  the  laiiic  iiavc  tuetcbsd  or  gviw  tbc  further  for  lack*  of  £ood  pmTiiirin  mdn- 
taincd  and  hepic  for  the  defence  of  the  same  Wherefore  it  is  condtMnded  aeJ 
■Erced  at  thin  prtaenL  asKmbly  thai  the  Chamberlaines  of  Nmthampton  liefMC  tbi 
f«a>t  »f  uint  JfttnM  thaposil*  next  eninmga  at  the  tons  and  charj;«9  «f  the  ttH' 
tlciK  to  lime  ihall  provide  jind  h.iTc  rcdy  xij  good  Itthern  buckets  and  toon  InC 
hooke*  of  iron  u  (y\  and  ationge  for  the  purpose  aforetaide  a*  majr  be  devued  a**) 
(he  same  shalbr  roniimiallie  kept  at  the  con  and  charge*  ol  the  »m«  chuntiv. 

Item  it  a  ordcynide  and  cslaliliMhed  and  agiccdethat  ihe  maior  o(  Northtonfo^ 
the  lime  bein^  and  every  one  that  hathe  bene  maior  and  beteaftet  sttalbe  maior  at 


I 
1 


PUBLIC    HEALTH. 


241 


mry  of  thtt  propct  cosIm  xnd  cturgin  jhall  have  three  good  )elhe<n  buckets  In  iher 
•everill  hovrse^  redjr  U  all  lime  and  time*  for  the  purpoie  afforejaide  And  every 
one  that  baihe  bene  b»rij  at  the  «ide  towne  nnd  ihalbe  bstyiy  of  Ihe  *ame  al  tbor 
proper  coBMs  «nd  rliarees  shall  have  too  lethem  buckets  in  their  sererall  howies 
fcdjr  At  an  time  and  limM  for  th<<  purpOM  mi(oim»id  and  every  one  of  the  xlviij 
Bommoflefs  *nd  everjr  other  rommoner  be«ide  dwelling*  in  the  laidn  towne  ihall  have 
Voe  biKket  rcdj  as  is  ofIor«9aiiIe  And  that  every  person  «t  persons  charf|;e(l  aritb 
tilt  having  of  buckets  as  Is  offoreiaid  shall  deliver  the  same  fourthe  themselves  or 
shall  not  denyc  the  same  to  such  person  or  persona  as  will  roquire  the  same  In  tinto 
of  nede  apon  paine  for  «v«r7  person  or  peniints  not  hiving  buckets  in  manntr.ind 
fotme  afuresaide  or  tar  not  deliverini^  the  lame  or  denieins  Iht  same  in  manner  and 
forroe  sfForcsaJde  for  every  time  kVj"  to  the  use  of  the  towne  chamiier.  And  for  the 
further  better  prcMrvauncc  of  lhi»  caide  borough'e  from  catualtict  of  f/cr  and 
•BcbcmnKe  the  dangcrt  thereof.  It  is  ordayncd  established  and  agre«d  that  no  manner 
of  pcnon  or  persons  at  any  time  or  times  hereafter  shall  bu/lde  edifye  make  or  have 
any  malte  kyllne  or  malce  killnet  vriihin  the  prednois  or  pUcM  of  ihe  saidr  lownc 
Wvafler  p«s»(d  and  declared,  Th.it  is  to  say  the  checker  the  draperie  the  bridge 
ftrpcte  Iho  south*  qiurler  Ihe  golde  street*  the  northe  strete  Abinfton  strete  and 
saint  Giles  ttrcete,  or  the  backsydcs  of  the  same  sitvctM  or  any  of  them  or  lu  any 
other  pla««  Id  the  s.iide  lownc  Adjaioing;*  or  n«Ar  unto  any  howra  or  howMA,  And 
that  all  and  every  peisoa  and  pcniomi  now  havini;e  any  killn  or  kyllnes  within  the 
preciiMrts  or  plaices  afcrcMide  shall  pull  dovrn  the  same  and  every  of  them  before 
Ih*  t«an  of  saint  Michel!  ihearransell  next  pnsuinge  The  date  hereof  or  elles  shall 
Doi  in  nay  wise  occupie  the  same  mahingc  of  maltc  upon  painc  of  every  one  maliingc 
d^foulte  havinge  to  forfeite  and  lose  lo  lownv  Chamber  sll  to  be  levied  foutthwiihe 
for  every  tlefaahc.  The  farmora  klllna  rxcepc,  That  Is  to  say  of  saint  Androos, 
Gobtmas  fvnw,  knolle  farnoe,  and  lasreni  baylys  in  ptoco  hertoforc  umall  only 
ncepied. 

This  order,  so  far  as  it  related  lo  malt  kilns,  was  rendered 
more  explicit,  and  strer(;ihened  a(  the  October  assembly  of  the 
tame  year,  J^io  penalty  being  imposed  upon  every  one  not  imme- 
diaiety  clearing  away  their  mail  kilns  within  the  prohibited  areas, 
adding  th.it  "  it  shaihe  iawfull  for  the  fermors  of  the  late  dissolved 
bowse  off  saiiit  Andrewes,  Gobbians  ferme,  (cnollcs  ferme,  Saint 
James  ferme,  to  have  and  to  use  their  kyllnes  in  the  accustomed 
places,  and  also  for  any  freeman  of  this  towne  to  place  or  make 
maite  kylnes  in  the  marholde,  saint  Andrewes  ende  and  saint 
Edroondes  ende." 

We  find  from  the  privy  council  and  domestic  state  papers  o£ 
1575,  that  when  Queen  Elizabeth  was  in  Northampton  foi  a  second 
lime  in  that  year,  complaint  was  made  to  her  majesty  by  the  mayor 
ol  Northampton,  that  some  of  the  townsmen  had  set  the  oidcrs  of 
asuerably  at   defiance    with    regard   to   the  erection  of   malt  kilns 

R 


242 


N0RTHAMP1ON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


within  the  liberties.  The  privy  council,  sitting  at  Kenilworth, 
July  iSth.  1575,  referred  the  matter  to  the  sheriff  of  the  county, 
Sir  John  Spencer,  and  to  Sir  Richard  Knightley.  These  gentlemen 
held  a  local  inquiry,  and  having  viewed  the  places  and  heard  both 
parties,  they  (with  the  consent  of  the  mayor  and  his  brethren), 
ordered  that  a  former  order,  made  by  consent  of  the  whole  town 
in  1571,  should  be  observed,  "and  the  said  malt  kilns  either  sup- 
pressed or  reformed."  The  offending  parties,  however,  proved 
contumacious,  and  in  May.  1577,  the  privy  council  despatched  a 
letter  to  the  mayor,  ordering  the  offenders  at  once  to  conform  to 
the  mandate,  and  if  they  resisted  to  take  bonds  from  them  to 
appear  before  the  privy  council. 

In  1591,  at  the  July  meeling  of  the  assembly,  it  was  ordered 
that  every  person  that  had  not  live  buckets,  according  to  the  order 
of  1580.  should  provide  the  same  by  the  feast  of  Saint  Bartholomew, 
or  be  fined  I2d. 

The  assembly,  in  April  1599,  made  further  orders  Chat  the 
chamberlain  should  renew  the  twelve  fire  buckets,  and  keep  the 
same  continually  renewed  .ind  repaired  year  by  year ;  that  in 
addition  to  the  buckets  provided  by  the  mayor  and  his  brethren, 
and  by  the  forty-eight,  that  all  other  bui^esses  thought  by  the 
mayor  and  justices  to  be  of  ability  should  provide  one  bucket ;  that 
each  bucket  should  have  painted  on  it  the  initials  of  the  owner; 
and  that  all  such  buckets  should  be  shovm  to  the  mayor  before 
the  feasl  of  Saint  James,  under  a  penally  of  two  shillings. 

[n  1612  the  first  business  of  the  October  assembly  was  again 
with  fires. 

Imptimia  (oriumucli  u  tKera  have  latdie  vene  dangerous  fim  happened  within 
thU  Corporation  to  the  rtoe  intall  hurte  and  dsmat^e  ai  the  inhab>um>  of  thta 
Corporntion  which  vrould  not  hive  bene  yt  thu  it  had  pleased  God  that  lite  be£la- 
ninge  bcirig«  at  th«  lirn  small  had  been  prevented  hy  jtcrc  of  tucfal  itiHrvmentes  ud 
mcaun  u  ktb  now  thoug^hl  Gti  and  convenicni  ih^t  is  w'nh  stan  of  boetnu  for 
csri3s«  o(  water,  hookes  and  ladder?  which  arc  rctic  Ecirc  and  scuix  ia  tU* 
Corporation. 

It  was  therefore  ordered  that  the  chamberlain  provide  twelve 
new  town  buckets  of  leather,  and  see  to  their  constant  repair  and 
renewal,  and  also  eight  good  and  sufficient  ladders,  four  long  aod 
four  short,  and  six  good  and  sufficient  hooks;  that  the  old  order  as 
to  the  mayor  and  aldermen  providing  three  buckets,  the  baih'^ 
and  past  bailiffs  two,  and  the  forty-eight  (as  well  as  every  com- 
moner   and    freeman    named  by  the    mayor)    one,   all   with  that 


I 

I 
i 


PUBUC    HEALTH. 


343 


ntia!<:  painled  thereon  be  maintained ;  and  further  tliat  those  who 

_had  la  prtj\  ide  three  buckets  and  two  buckets  should  always  have 

of  them  Btanding  in  the  church  <rf  All  Saints;  thnt  the  ladders 

hooks  were  to  be  placed  in  the  church,  and  rot  let  out  by  the 

under  pain  of  ud. :  and  that  anyone,  after  a  tire,  carrying 

away  a  bucket  thai  is  not  his  own  shall  be  fined  65.  8d. 

In    1619  the  clause  relative  to  the  placing  of  buckets  in  the 

lUTch  of  All  Saints  was  repealed  in  favour  of  the  buckets  being 

daced  in  the  parish  church  of  the  bucket   owner.    It  is  obvious 

this  that  the  (ist  closing  of  parish  churches  from  Sunday  to 

xy  had  not  yet  obtained  any  foothold  in  Northampton 

The   assembly  took  other  precautions,  from    time  10  time,  to 

the  incendiary  riitks  that  pertained  to  %o  inflammable  a  town, 

witness  the  following  order  of  September  3ist,  1586 : — 

Wheraat  itero  are  d}-v«r*«  Inhahttia^  4nd  itnwlll*^  wtibin  iKe  prefinft*  t>f  ih* 
r,  tit  Gutter,  itn)  tlte  Diapeife  tlut  ytadj  io  have  in  their  dwcllioge  hovtm, 
>lnw«.  Bnlns,  p*>«r  Strjw,  itnd  Turv«t.  and  ba**e  ciO<  convcitiqntc  faowMm  and 
teksfdtfi  10  Ujc  tbi  time  in,  Wtiunbjr  idtev  ilmm  gnat  caKualite*  at  tyn  hath 
%tntalotK  happened  and  Wafter  yv  lylca  lo  cbaunce  and  bappaii  yf  Refgnnation  b« 
a«(  (Trdwirc  Md  and  taken  ihtr^in.  And  lh«r«fi>re  ri  i>  anacted  and  bv  this  prewiu 
•nembU  »tabl:iih«il  and  vtgiMdc  iippon  Thai  w>  |>«Tiion  or  per»ona  durolling  and 
tnbabit.rigir  irithin  thr  pirciocu  cf  the  Checker,  Garter,  nor  Drapcrlc  haringe  no* 
or  oul  honaea  to  laye  in  any  Sirawc,  Bnkei,  peai«  Stiawc,  or  Turv«c 
hje  any  at  0^  unie  in  any  parte  o(  tbetr  dwdllnite  howKi.  but  In  Buraes 
<Mh*r  pl»f«*  in  lA  Ure  )u«h  k!n4  of  i-*ew«ll  iaae,  Wh«reby  dm  d«uB]t«r  may 
hya  ana-wrT  vilhcr  to  tWniMlw  or  their  neisbboarc*. 

A  2os.  pcoialty  was  imposed  upon  the  breach  of  this  order,  and 
i  who   had   auch  fuel   on  their  premises  were  to  carry  it  away 

the  feast  of  St.  Luke  under  a  like  penally. 
tt  was,  moreover,  on  several  occasions  in  the  sixteenth  and 
rcntccnth  centuries,  oorenantcd  by  the  town  on  the  renewal  or 
ttng  of  leases  of  decayed  houses  tliat  they  should  be  covered 
tiles  or  slates  instead  of  straw  or  reed  thatch. 
ta  1643,  when  active  steps  were  being  taken  for  the  fortifying  of 
ie  town,  the  risk  of  lire  naturally  came  under  special  consideration, 
]d  the  assembly  ordered  "that  Mr  Mayor  at  some  convenient 
se  ioquire  and  search  into  the  defect  in  buckits  and  to  put 
arward  the  orders  heretofore  made  either  for  the  providing  of 
to  or  for  thr  sending  in  of  money  to  huyc  or  amend  buckits." 
kl  ihc  end  of  the  second  volume  of  the  orders  of  assembly  is  "A 
Subscription  of  the  parishioners  of  All  Saints  for  the  proi'iding  of 

H  2 


M* 


SOBTHAUPTOM    BOROUGH    ftECOKDS. 


Lcatbersc  Bttdcctts  for  Pobtiqoe  os«  in  tyacs  of  danger  by  6ft," 
FVty  mac  bums  are  entered  al  2&.  6<L.  oioe  at  5s.,  «x  at  u.  Si, 
CvncDty  three  at  Is.,  Mr.  Rtubtoc  6s.  Sd.,  Mr.  justice  Cooke  los.. 
Mud  "  Tbe  Lady  Fatner  lor  6  Bodcets  £1  4s  od,"  gi^'ing  a  tool 
o(  iC?  7>-  xL  tnm  this  porisli.  Tbis  »am,  at.  4*.  a  bucket,  woald 
prande  three  dozen  Eor  tbe  parish  o(  All  Saints.  On  St.  Hv^Vi 
day,  f&53.  there  was  a  great  6n  in  .Newlaod,  dcitroying  a  Urge  | 
barn  full  of  erais^  aod  alM  a  malt  ktb.  (HaU'»  MS.) 

A  further  order,  cnforcii^  tbe  old  iDJunctionx  with  r^ard  to  fire*  I 
buckets,  was  passed  id  1657.  wbco  U  was  also  provided  that  ifcc 
bodcets  shoold  be  rcotoved  from  the  tcrcral  churches,  and  "br«B 
banged  up  m  some  convenient  piUce  in  the  Towme  Hall." 

In  1668  there  was  a  great  fire  in  Cotloa  Ead,  close  to  ibej 
further  stde of  tbe  south  bridge.  One  account  sa3^  that  there  wcri 
ooljr  sis  booses  left  standing  in  tbe  short  ^lacc  of  tn-u  hoars 

On  September  aoch,  i67Sf  at  nine  o'clock  in  tbe  forenoon, 
fire  broke  out  in  a  boose  in  St.  Mary  street,  near  the  casik. 
wbeo  3  stroi^  west  wind  was  blowit^-  The  fire  continued  to 
rage  onlil  6  o'clock  on  the  following  morning.  More  than  half 
the  town  was  destroyed,  including  the  church  of  All  Saints  and 
upwards  of  600  dwetling  houses,  and  most  of  the  remainder  coo<| 
siderabty  damaged.  The  general  loss  of  property  wi.<  calculated  atj 
;£ji5o,ooo-  Long  and  interesting  accounts  of  the  thrilling 
and  incidents  of  this  terrible  fire,  from  the  pens  of  eye-wilne«es.| 
have  been  several  times  published.  It  is  merely  proposed  in  tl 
pages  to  give  certain  official  statements  and  entries  which  have . 
hitherto  been  made  known. 

The    market  cross   wa«   burnt  and   almost   all    the  btiiidif^] 
public  ami  private,  round   tbe  great  market  square  or  vb«|ucr,] 
but  the  guildhall  n-as  spared.    On  September  ijth  the  asscmbf 
met  in  the  guildhall,  when  the  foltowtng   were  iraong  the  ore 
that  were  made  : — 

Thai    ill  Edaaii)  KnieMon  ibc  Mayor  Elect  hj  reaaoa  of  bb  *ooppttrig  ti 

Msjrvnliy  at  lUt  taoat  tai  aad  d*p)onbk  tjrne  in  KortlumptaR  iha  tovnc  bdl 
KlauMi  all  burat  bjr  a  dmilfiiU  fin  that  bipp«aad  upon  tfc*  sx*  ti  thii 
Se{K«i»beT  «h4U  be  alloweil  Thirty  Panmls  lu  uihcr  Miran  hive  bee*  allmrnl  Ai 
ihit  Mr  Wbistvm  tbe  pii^ent  Umpx  fay  th*  taiac  H  iipon  his  acootapt  Mm 
appeuM  to  be  ia  hia  haodi. 

ThnU  llic  Gendnnen  lUat    are    uf    the   Cwiiinlittc    < 
dbinnwl   tyrtm  aod  *urli  gml1«aiati  as    ars   anlre   hr   • 
pmenUd  in  tkeir  freedanea  td  thb  CotpootloB  3  thtcy  phaaa  la  aeorpt  of  U, 


PUBLIC    HEALTH. 


H5 


it  be  fotthwilh  ottered  to  Wm  Buckby  Eiq'  Depul;  Recorder  Sir  Edmuod 
~Vny  WillUm  Tate  Eiq'  Robert  KMiliifa  Esq'  Thomu  Willooshby  Ekj' 
Uiles  Fleclwood  Em|'  Charks  Fleetwood  Exq'  Sir  Rofrer  Norwich  Fmncit 
Uorgao  Es(|*  Richard  Raymford  Ctq'  Henry  Edtnundi  Esq'  SaUihicI  LoveSI 
E»q*  John  Htait  Esq*  .  ,  ,  .  Arundell  Es^'  Sir  John  Holnun  Chriitofer 
Thuraby  Emf  W"  Kymbold  genC  Robtri  Ward  gent  D'  Danven  Thoma* 
Word  Ex)'  and  George  Ray^miord  gent. 

The  comniittef  for  the  relief  of  the  distressed    speedily  set  to 

worlt    to   provide  wooden  shelters  for    the   poor,  whilst   the    more 

enterprising  tradesmen  ran  up  timber  sheds  to  serve  as  shops  until 

lore  permanent   structures   could  be   erected.      The  assembly,  on 

^October  15th,  wisely  agreed   "that  all  sliedds  built  in  the  body  of 

this  towne  be  covered  with  slatt  tyle  or  bords,  and  none  be  suffered 

b«  covered  with  straw."    At  the  same  assembly  it  was  resolved : 

TItttt  ike  Common  Seal  «f  this  Cot]>oration  be  nfRxed  and  putto  the  Act  of 
Parli>m«nt  for  the  mbuilding  of  lht<  towns  .ircording  tn  chi;  attcratiom  now  t«ad. 

That  the  Cominon  Seal  be  affixed  to  an  Order  for  wrerall  indentures  therein 
■Mnliotied  »nd  now  read  to  this  howse  fur  disponing  the  (haiitable  money  o( 
Nonhampton. 

Tbat  the  Common  Seal  be  afiixed  to  an  loxlriitiicnt  o(  tn^ttgage  ^minted  to  Mr. 

UaMingberd  for  the  lecunng  o(  one  hundred    pounds  due    to    him  (rom  lhi«  Cor- 

inruion    hi>  former  moti];ai;e  being  butni  by  the  Ute  drcadfull    fire,  or  otherwtK 

ai<e»rrjed  and  lost,  and  that  hit  intermit  money  far  the  htindred  poundi  be  drjtred 

of  until  Mirh.tettnat  bit. 

The  next  assembly,  ht:Id  on  November  Slh,  ordered  the  borrowing 
'of  £100  of  the  fund  of  charitable  money  (or  the  relief  of  North- 
ampton, "for  the  rebuilding  of  the  Sessions  tiowse,  the  old  howse 
beins  burnt." 

I  Three  days  later  the  assembly  appointed  "Mr  Bra6eld  Mr 
Trend  Mr  Rands  the  Chamberlaine  the  Master  of  St  Thomas 
Jtlatthias  Dawes  Richard  White  and  Ricliard  Buckingham  to  view 
all  the  to^hne  landes  lately  burnt  and  to  take  care  of  the  Tymber 
and  Stone." 

The  assembly  met  again  on  December  23rd,  when  the  following 
orders  were  agreed  to  relative  to  the  fire : — 

Tbat  Publiqne  ihaohs  he  jiven  from  thi«  howse  to    Georj[«  Clarke  Esq*  tor  hlf 
^_   Undneu  to  ihi«  towne. 
^^         That  Ittiers    be   lenl    to  Sir  James    Langham  Mr  The    Pilkington    and    Mt 

Francis  Rtyaaford  to  deiire  them  toappaynt  persona  for  reiuntes  ot  the  cbariiabte 

money. 

Mt    Mutingberd     Mr     Raitde*     Mr    Tho     SeT|[canl     Mr     Theoph    Whirton 
kUttkiai  Daww  a»d  Richard  Smylhe  an  de^red  to  wajrte  upon  tbn  Comntissioncrs 


246 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECOKUS. 


tor  nen  modelling  of  the  Icmn.  mikI  to  auist  them   u  co  tlie  oonveiuencr  ol  Re- 
building ioA  setting  of  the  Ser«Met. 

That  a  Petition  be  pruenied  from  ihU  how»t  to  the  Treaiurerei  10  Anin  tbeni 
to  accept  of  the  trust  in  relation  ta  iDVDcya  brought  in  for  the  u>e  o£  the  townc. 

On  February  nth,  :675-6,  Mr,  Robert  Hcsilrige  wag  authorised, 
under  the  common  sea!,  to  receive  the  moneys  collected  in  London 
for  the  rehef  of  Northamplon. 

On  March  lat.  1675-6,  the  assembly  desired  Messrs.  Brafield, 
Frcnd.  Rowcil,  Whiston,  Nccic,  and  Dobson  to  "  view  the  tovmc 
laniics  lately  demolished  by  the  fire  and  report  to  this  bowse  wh^ 
improvcmcnls  may  be  madt-  of  them  or  their  back:9ides."  At  the 
same  time  Joscpli  Dobson  was  granted  a  lease  of  a  tenement  in 
Newland  belonging  to  St.  Thomas'  Hospital  for  41  years  at  an 
annual  rental  o[  45&,,  "he  buildirg  a  substantial  dwelling  house 
upon  the  same  ground  lately  demolished  by  the  fire."  From  this 
date,  for  the  next  year  or  two,  various  leases  for  99  years  were 
granted  by  the  corporation  of  town  lands  at  low  rcntalt;,  on  condition 
of  tenements  being  immediately  and  substantially  re-built. 

"  An  Act  for  the  better  and  more  easie  Rebuilding  the  Town  of 
Northampton  "  was  passed  in  1675. 

The  preamble  recites  that  the  greater  pan  of  the  town  had 
been  burnt  down  by  a  sudden  and  dreadful  fire  in  September  la&t, 
and  that  by  reason  thereof  divers  suits  and  controversies  seemed 
likely  to  arise  between  several  proprietors  and  claimants  in  coo- 
nectton  with  the  re-butlding,  which  might  prove  a  great  hindrance — 
that  therefore  the  jtjdges  of  assize  for  Northamptonshire  and  other 
judges  of  the  supreme  courts  for  the  time  being,  and  the  justices 
of  the  peace  for  the  county,  and  the  ma)'or  of  Northampton, 
with  Sir  John  Holman,  Sir  Edmund  Bray.  Tliomas  Willughby. 
James  Stedman,  Robert  Hesilrige,  Thomas  Andrews.  Thomas 
Ward,  Charles  Fleetwood,  Daniel  Danvers,  Salathiel  Lovell,  and 
William  Kimbold,  F.squires,  or  any  five  or  more  of  them,  sitting  at 
the  guildhall  or  some  other  place  in  Northampton,  shall  constitute 
a  court  of  record,  and  by  verdict,  testimony  of  witnesses  on  oatb, 
examination  of  parties  interested,  or  otherwise  (without  (he  usual  for- 
malities  of  proceedings  in  courts  of  law  or  equity)  shall  determine  all 
differences  and  demands  that  may  arise  between  landlords,  tenants, 
lessees,  under  tenants,  late  occupiers  of  any  of  the  houses  or 
buildings,  touching  their  rebuilding,  non-rebuilding,  or  repairs,  or 
concerning  payments,  apportioning  of  payments,  or  abatement  of 


HUBI.IC    HEALTH. 


H7 


Its,  etc..  and  that  the  order  of  the  court  shall  he  definite  and 
,  from  which  there  can  he  no  appeal.  The  court  bad  extraordinarj- 
!rs  conferred  upon  it  of  altering  estates,  notwithstanding  infancy 
cat'ertore,  and  of  absolute  dealing  with  episcopal  and  corporate 
properly;  to  make  rules  and  directions  as  to  the  form  aud  order 
buildings  ;  to  enlarge  or  alter  streets,  lanes,  roads,  and  passages; 
tre^at  and  compound  for  ground  thub  to  be  used,  and  in  case  of 
fusat  or  di&abilty  then  to  empanfl  a  jury;  to  make  alterations  in 
laudations  if  they  see  cause;  Co  a'K'ard  satisfaction;  to  dispose  of 
ibd  not  built  upon  v\ithin  three  years  to  those  who  would 
lild ,  to  see  that  all  houses  are  covered  with  lead,  slate,  or  tile ; 
xnd  that  no  perilous  trade  with  respect  to  fire  was  exercised:  that 
an  appeal  against  an  order  made  by  less  than  seven  of  the  com- 
missioners may  be  made  within  twenty  days,  if  approved  by  one 
the  judges  of  assize  or  ju(^es  of  the  higher  courts,  and  that  the 
case  may  be  tried  again  in  Northampton  by  seven  or  any  greater 
number  of  the  commi-isioners ;  that  the  mayor  keep  a  register  book 
for  the  orders;  that  (to  encourage  gentlemen  to  build  and  reside 
in  the  tOH-n)  justices  of  the  peace  for  the  county  of  Northampton 
being  inhabitants  of  the  town  shall  be  also  justices  of  the  town ; 
that  any  one  building  a  house  worth  jC3«)  within  seven  years  shall 
have  his  freedom;  and  that  all  commissioners  under  the  act  take 
an  oath  of  fair  and  just  execution  of  its  powers. 

The  act  aUo.  in  stating  that  no  private  ground  was  to  be  taken 
kve  fur  the  enlargement,  made  some  special  regulations  with 
rd  to  site*  in  the  town ;  namely,  that  this  was  to  be  done  to 
enlarge  the  p.-usagc  between  the  South  street  and  the  street  called 
the  Drapery,  the  corner  bouse  (late  in  the  tenure  of  Bartholomew 
Manning)  being  removed;  that  the  corner  between  the  Drapery 
and  Sheep  miirkct  be  enlarged  :  that  the  streets  or  passages  both 
on  the  north  and  south  side  of  Alt  Saints'  church  he  enlarged  ; 
It  all  bouses  which  stood  between  the  buildings  on  the  south 
of  the  market  hill  called  Mercers  Row.  and  the  tiortti  side  of 
market  hill  be  taken  away  ;  that  the  comer  between  the 
jltarket  place  and  Abington  street  be  enlarged  ;  and  that  the  passage 
rhtch  went  about  the  middle  of  the  east  side  of  the  Drapery  into 
le  Market  place  be  enlarged. 

The  register  book  of  the  orders  of  this  interesting  commission 
rith    these    unique  powers    ii^   sitill   extant.     It  consists  of  a  folio 


248 


KOKTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


paper  book  of  30CI  pages  of  orders,  with  a  few  extra  pages  on 
which  is  a  tmniicript  of  the  act. 

The  cominisBion  made  seventy-nine  decrees,  the  whole  of  which 
are  set  out  in  this  volume,  with  the  original  signatures  of  the 
commissi  oners.  The  first  is  datud  April  jlh,  1676,  and  the  last  on 
October  lolh,  i&S^  ,  the  act  was  only  operative  for  ten  years. 

These  decrees  (or  the  most  part  arc  concerned  with  the  settle* 
ment  of  intricate  succession  or  boundary  questions,  and  it  would 
be  of  no  general  interest  or  utility  to  offer  any  analysis  or  summary 
of  each  case.  Nevertheless,  4*  this  court  was  so  entirely  original 
and  unique  in  character,  and  proved  itself  so  admirably  adapted 
for  ihe  purpose  for  which  it  was  intended,  it  may  be  well  to 
give  one  of  the  shorter  cases  tn  exteMS9.  At  the  same  time  it 
should  be  understood  that  it  must  not  be  regarded  as  any  oiact 
sample  of  the  rest,  for  almost  each  case  has  its  strong  points  of 
dissimilarity  to  the  remainder  :— 

At  tl>e  Court  of  Judicature  hclil  by  the  ComrnlHlonen  appoyntcd  for  the  better 
and  more  wuj'  Rebuilding:  The  Townc  of  Nonhicnpton  at  the  Guildhall  tii«fe  on 
Saturday  tha  firsl  Aaj  of  July  Ano  Dni  167O  Id  the  Btgbl  and  Twenlieth  jeare  of 
the  leignc  of  our  Soveraigne  Lord  King  Cbarlo  the  weond  over  Englead  «tc 

Mr  Edirard  Knighton  Moiyor 

WilUam  Tsite  Emj' 

ThoiTiiW  Willoughby  Esq' 

C)ia.r1es  Pltctwood  Em)' 

Fran<:It  Morgan  Ekj* 

WilllAiu  Kimbould  Ckj' 

William  Sm^th  of  the  Towii«  of  NortUton  Maion  PMJtioner  againsi  Tobiu 
R«od»  and  William  Lowielt  sfvd  France*  hU  wife  and  Dorothy  Smyth  sneriothe 
pelilioner  Wm  Smyth  Defendenis 

WhetcsB  the  said  William  Smyth  hath  Exhibited  his  Petition  Into  this  Cooit 
Chtreby  sMtitig  forth  that  the  Petitioner*  father  d>'ed  iattA  of  a  Tenetoen*  and 
bachtidc  in  Newlnnd  in  the  Towne  nf  Northampton  which  came  to  him  by  hit 
Srrt  vrife  by  whom  ho  hid  Dorothy  one  of  the  DcfenJjnia  whoe  wm  hdre  att  Law 
lo  the  prcmi*B«  And  that  the  said  Dorothy  ahovc  Twenty  ynru  since  w«nt  out  cf 
EiigLnd  hath  not  been*  j-et  heard  off  but  is  supposed  and  reported  to  be  doad  And 
that  the  petitioners  mother  his  father*  Moond  wife  enjoyed  the  pnmiaa  froo  ibc 
dcjth  of  his  father  until  the  fire  Th«  by  the  \%\A  dreadful!  lire  th*  nid  Tenetneiil 
vra»  burnt  downe  and  demolished  And  that  siii'Cc  the  uld  fire  tbe  other  dcfeodieu 
Tobias  Rird  and  Frances  wife  of  William  Lowiek  or  one  of  them  pretend  lone 
Tytlc  to  (he  premises  Thil  the  Petitioner  \»  willing  and  ready  to  Rebuild  the  aaU 
Demolished  Tenement  provided  he  may  he  incouredged  ihereunlo  by  tlM  Docnsrf 
thb  Court  To  which  end  he  ptayed  ttiis  Court  to  graiini  Swridoib  to  waraa  ifcc 
•enral    Ddendants  to  appejtrc  in  Mna  Court  To  the  intent  such  Order  and  Decree 


I 


pMMal 


PUBLIC    HBALTH. 


249 


pj  ba  nukilf:  touctunf  the  ptvmuM*  m%  («  Ikia  court  tbould  Motp  juit  uixj   leason- 

Whete^poa   ffDmmoaa   wara  granted    and    uiued    aocordingily   And  ibo  taid 

bsriBf  been  ikcivupun  jumaimwd   appcatEil   pcnuiuily   berc  ir  Court 

d*7  Aiid  vpoa  mding  this  laid    PMition    and   debiitcing  the  »>v«»tl   matters 

eram   c«mejmcd    It   cppcaitd   lo   (be    Court    Th«t    (he    T}llc    lo    the    piKta\ao 

k»    tfi    Donthf  Smfih   th«    aibci    DefcKUnt    And   the    ■forcMid    TobUt    lUtid 

and    Frances   Lomitk  wU«  ci    William    Lowi«k  had   noe   Tytle  or   lnt«mt  in  ihe 

ynahct  as  Ibe^  could  aa;-  way  niAk«  ant  to   the  Court   Aod    bjr  rcuton   the   Mid 

^^^■mlh*  Smjlli   c«ti(iot   be   loiirxl  out  ar  henrd  off  since    «b«  went   out  of  Eiiglsnd 

^^Bunby  lh«  premiMa  arc  tilu)  lo  Ijro  Demali«bed  and    unbnill  unlex    by  th«  d«cre« 

^^11  iWCvwrt  lb«  Pctiotwr  Willivn  Sntjrlli  «batl  be  iocovredged  l»  Rebuild  tbe  said 

T«nr«rMnr  Th«r*for*  fnr  Dritrmiriation  of  all  diff«rei>cvs  b«(w««n  lh«   Petitioner  knd 

the  DefeiiiUnts  and  fof  bU  incourcdgmtm  to  Rrbiiild  ihc  laid  Tenement  Tbb  COMil 

t4aih  Order  and  D«aiM  That  the  Mid  Petitioner  William  Smyth  be  lh«  Bailder  of  the 
kd  Tenement,  and  be  shall  Hold  and  Enjoy  the  prvmius  to  bim  and  hii  helret  But 
B  h  iball  happen  tbe  aaid  Dorothy  Smyifa  ibal  retuine  and  malic  out  a  good  Tyile 
|0  Um  prcmUcA  That  then  tbe  uid  Dorolby  sha))  pay  (he  Pelkmer  William  Smyth  the 
^^bll  ch^r^r  of  ihe  QuiUinjf  ol  the  «aid  Tenement  And  In  oonsideratiu!)  tbereot 
^Pftii  Cfturi  doth  further  Ord«r  sad  Decrvo  thm  tbe  *aid  William  Smyth  with  all 
ctmnnteni  ^mda  ihall  caue  to  be  Eiteted  asd  r«buiti  upon  the  Toft  or  plM« 
erf  gronnd  whereon  formerly  trtood  the  latd  Tenement  loe  burnt  downe  and  demolished 
iij  tbe  nld  dmdfull  fire  another  good  and  iibnanlial  houie  or  Tenement  aecordlng 
to  aiaeti  mlct  and  direciioos  at    have  been  made  by  ibis  Court  in  Lanes  and  Out- 

Hifctna  in  (be  1'owne  «l  Notthlon  And  Uilly  thU  Court  doth  Order  and  D«cr«e  iKat 
■■  aid  Petitioner  Willutn  Smyth  bis  heirs*  and  assifnea  ihall  and  nay  peiaecabl/ 
ud  quietly  have  bold  and  Bojoy  the  Toft  of  eround  and  the  Tenemenc  to  be 
ihervon  Krert««J  in  punuance  wf  tbi»  Decree  "ith  tbe  b«i;ltside  thervunto  adjonnins 
«nd  belonging  «g<  the  aforeuU  TobUi  Rands  and  William  l.owiclcand  Fiaticei  hii 
irile  an^  agaiul  ibe  Mild  Dorothy  Smyth  and  bet  heirs  until  «hc  ihall  rcturnc  and 
ttakc  out  a  good  lyile  to  the  premises  and  thall  pay  (ulljr  lot  the  Rebuilding  of 
he  Tenemeni  hereby  intended  to  be  Bteeied  and  Rebuilt  And  ag*  all  other  ptnom 
^ajminf  Jiny  Ertate  right  lytic  or  inleic«t  irhaljoevvr  in  Law  or  Mjuily  or  other 
>«ibr:ucM   apoa    Ibe  premlsci   whatioerer  according   to  the  aforesaid  Ad  of 

iliucxnL 

Edward  Knighton, 

Mayor. 
Tbo  Willonjhby 

WUI  Tate 

Fr  Morgan 

Ch  Pleaiwood 

Tile  following   is  a  copy   of   the   large   painted  board  to  the 
'cooiiitory  court  of  AU  Saints'  church,  now  nearly  illegible  in  some 
parts  .— 

A  Table  of  the  worthy  Benefactor*  vnluntaryly  eontriboting  towardt  the  R«- 
ilkldiiig  tbe  Church  of  All  Saictt  and  Relicfe  of  )uffeier!i  by  the  dreadfcll  fire  in 
l|«ctla«)Aon,  which  happened  o«  tbe  twentieth  day  of  September,  1673. 


3Sa 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


Tbo  Royal  Gift  ot  King  CHAtuu  jr*  11.  A    1000  tunn  of  TimbvT  and  wawn 
jeates  chimney  money  coltccted  in  the  Towne  oE  Northampton. 
TheEBilaof  Northampton      lao    oo    oo      Mrs  Maij  Craw 

Mrs  Marr  Nichols 

MnJancGote 

Goorg*  Hotmail,  E«]  ... 

Paul  Wentworth  Esq 

John  Ckrlwright  Esq     ... 

Willinn  Ciittnight  Esq 

DennDX  Knighiky  Em) 

George  Clatk  E*(]    ... 

Anchltd  Graf  Esq 

Wiltiain  Alston  Esq 

Ricturd  Raynsfotd  Esq... 

Ttiorau  Ward  Etq  ... 

Edmfd  Hxaby  Btq    ... 

Bdwird  Sttiilford  Esq 

Henry  Edmonds  Esq    ... 

Andnw  Lam  Esq   ... 

FrancU  Lxne  Baq 

Jolia  Ekin*  E«q 

Thomas  Caccsb)  Esq     .. 

EdwArd  HalM  Eaq  ... 

Dr.  TowiBon      

Richard  Hampden  Esq 

V  G«at:  otS'Fn.  Conptooi 
Troop  ...        

Mr  Patncll    ... 

Georga  Dodson  Esq 

JohD  Whits  Esq       .. 
Mr  Jo-    Warren    MtDist 
Hatfeild 

Mr  Jotin  Smart 

MrSafTU  

MrChibnold 

MrVau«  

Mr  OuiT 

Mr  Floyd  , 

John  Tbomejr  Esq    .. 
Atliton  ...         ,,, 

Alreslct   ... 
Alesbiirr 

Adson      

Abbington     

Buclcin|[han)        ...  ,., 

Brabrooke     

Bfdlord   . 


Earle  of  SunderlicMl 

.190 

eo 

00 

Dukeof  Keot     .  . 

SO 

00 

00 

EafI  of  Cardigati 

■  30 

00 

00 

Lord  Arlin^or. 

too 

00 

00 

Lord  Crewe                

.  30 

00 

00 

Lord  Moougu« 

so 

OD 

00 

Lord  Rockingham  ft  lady. 

2$ 

00 

00 

Lord  Arch.Bpof  CanlertKir^ 

.100 

00 

00 

Lard  Chrif  |iuiWR3fnsford  ^o 

00 

00 

Lord  Chcif  Baron  MoQtnguc  lo 

00 

00 

JunephLordBpofPeterborow  <o 

00 

00 

Lord  PrimM«  of  Irelnnd 

■  OS 

00 

00 

Lord  Bbhopo(Litch(«ildaiid 

CoTentree 

OS 

00 

00 

tUlph  .MonUigua  Esq 

.  40 

00 

00 

S"  Wiliiam  Farmtf 

100 

00 

00 

S*  William  Lanxham 

100 

00 

00 

S*  rhom>«  liih.tm 

50 

00 

00 

&  RoEsr  Norwich    ... 

■  'S 

00 

00 

S'TbomasSimwell&Fainl]^  65 

oo 

00 

S»  Charles  Y*lverton     ,.. 

3» 

00 

00 

S'  Thomas  Crewe    .. 

30 

00 

00 

S'  EdwacJ  .Nicholls       ... 

30 

00 

00 

S*John  Robinson     ... 

30 

00 

00 

S*  Wniiam  Craven 

10 

00 

00 

ff  Willism  PargiW 

IS 

oo 

00 

S*  John  flarnard  ,. 

n 

00 

00 

S'  Robert  Shi»iey     

ao 

00 

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S'  Wllliim  Coventry     ... 

to 

oa 

00 

S' Tbomas  Proby    ... 

to 

oo 

00 

SI  Rouland  B«ridy 

13 

06 

06 

S' WaliwSi  Johns 

10 

00 

00 

S'  Richard  Eirle 

10 

00 

00 

S- John  Crew           

05 

00 

00 

The  Ladr  Daltingrlu     ... 

03 

00 

00 

Udypj-le     

to 

00 

00 

LadrWUbram 

05 

00 

00 

Ladjr  KnijhUjr 

10 

CO 

00 

Lady  Smyth        

oa 

03 

00 

Ladylshain 

BO 

00 

00 

Lady  Earl 

»5 

00 

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Lady  RoclHngham 

OS 

00 

00 

Mtv  Mary  Isham 

«5 

00 

00 

...  OS 

oo 

00 

OS 

00 

00 

...  OS 

00 

00 

toe 

00 

M 

...100 

00 

00 

80 

00 

oo 

...   30 

00 

00 

40 

00 

00 

...   90 

00 

00 

30 

00 

00 

.    15 

00 

00 

>5 

00 

oo 

..    to 

00 

00 

10 

00 

00 

..    10 

00 

00 

OS 

00 

00 

OS 

00 

oo 

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00 

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■.  03 

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..    >0 

00 

00 

30 

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a 

..    10 

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DS 

30 

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..  03 

00 

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00 

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33 

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..   oS 

08 

0$ 

01 

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..   OS 

00 

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tl 

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03 

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..   03 

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■    99 

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I 


PUBLIC    HEALTH. 


251 


Binningham 

..  67 

01 

to 

Lincolne 

118 

02 

GO 

Bugbrook 

It 

01 

10 

M  elto  n- Mo  wbray 

...  39 

00 

07 

Biator 

..  39 

00 

01 

Maochester 

>SS 

10 

07 

Banbuiy 

110 

>S 

00 

Nottingham 

...ISO 

00 

00 

Brajnston 

..  20 

>4 

00 

N  e  wport- Pagnell 

54 

04 

01 

Corentree 

300 

00 

00 

Oaltly-Magoa 

...  16 

00 

00 

Chipping   Norton     ... 

..   46 

00 

00 

Oundic 

37 

00 

00 

Corbj        

07 

00 

00 

Orlingbury    ... 

...   03 

12 

OS 

Colebrafeild 

..    08 

00 

00 

Odewell 

>3 

00 

00 

Cambridge  Universitj  ... 

386 

05 

06 

Overston       

...  05 

02 

06 

Cambridge  Corporation 

..  85 

13 

04 

Oxford  University 

450 

00 

00 

Cottinghatn 

to 

00 

00 

Oaford  City 

...   134 

06 

08 

Darby 

,.150 

00 

00 

Olney 

27 

05 

03 

Dadford 

OS 

00 

00 

Pattishall       

...   10 

19 

04 

Daventiy 

..  56 

03 

09 

Peterborow 

30 

00 

00 

ETenbam 

42 

00 

03 

Rothwell        

...   18 

oa 

00 

Edon  {sic)     ... 

..    13 

'5 

00 

Ramsey 

13 

00 

10 

Erersdon             

09 

03 

10 

Slapton           

...  04 

03 

06 

Giaotham 

..   81 

00 

09 

Shemford 

0 

10 

00 

Harborow 

13 

10 

07 

Shcrly            

...  04 

10 

00 

Hitching 

..  7' 

>3 

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Stamford 

80 

00 

00 

Herringhold 

03 

00 

ti 

Stebbington-Bedlord 

...  06 

II 

□0 

Huntington    ... 

■  ■  45 

iS 

04 

Spcllsbury           

08 

06 

09 

Hayle  WeatoD    

OS 

00 

00 

Southam 

...   10 

17 

04 

Holliwell        

..  07 

10 

00 

Stratford  upon  Avon  ... 

118 

00 

II 

Hinckley 

12 

07 

04 

St  Ires           

..  30 

05 

06 

Higharo-ferria 

..  30 

00 

00 

Thorp  Malser     

07 

02 

09 

Hatford 

03 

00 

00 

Warwick 

...   171 

10 

07 

Kings  Clifle 

30 

01 

ofi 

Warmington       

10 

00 

00 

Kings  Rippon     ... 

□3 

14 

05 

Weiden          

,..  08 

16 

00 

Loodon  City  about  . 

5000 

00 

00 

Weston  and  Weedon  ., 

04 

00 

00 

Leicester  ... 

50 

00 

00 

Woodstock 

...  31 

12 

00 

Lougfaborow... 

..   >5 

00 

DO 

Weliingborow     ,,. 

66 

II 

06 

Lmandon  ...         

10 

00 

00 

Yardly-Gobion 

...  03 

00 

00 

Litterworth    

...   16 

00 

00 

Yorke  city 

100 

00 

00 

The  domestic  state  papers  make  mention  of  a  6re  in  North- 
ampton early  in  September,  1669,  which  in  less  than  three  hours 
destroyed  seventeen  dwelling  houses. 

On  May  nth,  1694,  a  dismal  fire  broke  out  at  four  o'clock  in 

the  afternoon,  and  the  town   was  much  endangered,  through  some 

children  making  a  fire  in  a  baker's  yard  in  the  Gaol  street.     At 

tirst  the  case  seemed  desperate,  particularly  at  the  White   Hart, 

and  the  neighbours  came  with  teams  to  fetch  the  goods  away ;  but 


353 


NORTHA^IPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


the  extraordinary  dilif^ence  of  the  workmen,  and  the  shifting  of  tl; 
wind  combined  to  effect  the  saving  of  the  town. 

In    1701  llic  corporation   spent   £,\  4s.  in  repairing  the  leather 
buckets,  and  12s.  in  mending  the  engine.     Three  great   fire  hooksi 
were  made  in  1705,  at  a  cost  of  £2  6s.     The  san>e  year   the   mcnj 
who  played  the  engine  received  6s.  4d, 

The  mayor's  accounts  for  1715  have  tlie  following  entry  relativ 

to  a  small  fire,  of  which  we  have  no  other  record : — 

s. 

P*  at  Dig*  Coffa  house  about  Mttiag  •  W«rlt  and  «xj«(ninin{  «ritiiWBM  abflnt 
a  lira  3*  9*,  and  mor*  »  &,  p*  W«»t  halping  with  his  water  esH 
2-  ff      .,         ...       6    gl 

In  the  same  year  3s,  was  paid  for  painting  three  fire  hooks, 
and  22s  for  mending  the  engine.  Six  men  "to  play  the  Engine 
2  dayee  "  were  paid  6s.  4d. 

The  fire   hooks  mentioned  throughout  these-  minutes  \vcr«  longi 
heavy  poles  of  wood,  with  iron  hook.s,  and  usually  aXso  bound  with ' 
iron,  and  having  loops  of    the  samt:  metal  at  the  butt  end.    They 
varied  in  length,  from  20  to  30,  or  even  35  feet.     They  were  used 
to  drag  down  buildings  th.it  had  already  caught  fire,  or  sometimesj 
to  pull  down  two  or  three  houses  in  a  row  in  a  town  fire,  so  as  to 
make  a  gap,  .ind  thus  prevent    the  flames  spreading.      The  books' 
were  raisrd  and  let  fall  over  the  roof-tree  or  ridge-beam.     When 
the  hook  had  taken  hold  a  number  of  men  dragged  at  the  other  end  ' 
by  the  aid  of  ropes  passed  through  the  loops.     Occasionally  horses  I 
were  fastened  by  chains  to  the  butt  ends,  so  as  to  obtain  greater 
destructive  power.    This  way  of  working  fire  hooks  is  shown  in  an 
old  engraving  of  the  great  fire  of  Tiverton  in   1598.     It  was  usual  to^| 
keep  fire  hooks  in  the  lower  of  the  parish  church.     There  is  a  finc^ 
pair  of  old  fire  hooks  in  the  church  of  Raunds,  in  this  county,  and 
another  pair  at  the  adjattent  church  of   Stanwick;  there  is  also  a 
single  example  in  the  church  of  Ilarringworth. 


I 


The  Conduits  and  Watekworks. 

The  great  conduit,  with  the  conduit  hall  above  it,  was  built  on 
the  lower  or  south  side  of  the  market  place  in  the  time  of  Edward 
IV.  One  account  gives  the  exact  year  bs  1461,  aootber  1478.  and 
a  third  1481  ;  we  believe  the  last  of  these  dates  to  be  correct  It 
was  supplied  with  water  by  pipes  from  the  spring  known  as  the 
conduit-head  in  a  held  to  the  cast  of  the  town,  where  the  hospital 
of  St.  Andrew  now  stands.    In  1543  the  pipes  to  the  conduit  wen 


I 


PUBLIC    HEALTH. 


853 


^elaid  so  as  to  ensure  a  better  water  supply.     The  hall  above  the 
iduil  W9IS  used   for  vnrious  guild   meetings  and  trade  purposes 
aothoriscd  by  the  town. 

The  little  contJuit  was.  however,  by  far  the  older  building,  and 
supplied  with  water  from  the  same  springs.    After  the  erection 

Iol  Utc  grcit  conduit,  in  a  far  more  convenient  situation,  the  water 
bras  first  conduacd   to  the  great  «Miduit,  and  thence  hy  pipes  to 
Its  smaller  predecessor.    The  little  conduit  stood  close  to  All  Saints' 
church,  at   the  south-weitt  angle  of    the   cliurciiyard.   and   escaped 
Ue  fire.     Woodcuts  of  the  little  conduit  have  appeared    in  guide 
books  and  small   histories,   but   they  are  of  later   date,  after  the 
^building   had  lost  its  elegant  pinnacles.     These  pinnacles,  after 
my  repairs  and  renewals,  were  so  much  damaged  m  a  gale  in 
I1S15.   that  they  were   then  Anally    removed.     It   was  an  octagonal 
juilding.  of  pure    Decorated  design,  ornamented  with  a  handsome 
licnrcd  parapet,   and   havii^  a  scries  of    square  traceried  panels, 
two  to  each  face,  immediately  below  the  parapet. 

I      There  uf  no  doubt  that  this  small  conduit  was  first  placed  here 
at  the  time  of  the  extension  and   rebuilding  of   the  town,  which 
began  in  130a 
The  following  is  the  earliest  entry  relative  to  the  conduits  id 
the  orders  o(  assembly : — 

M*  (he  SawUj  the  xxvij'^  <la;  uf  Jinoary  a"  1554  Thom&i  Walker  and  Thonat 
Wutea  m**  al  ih«  Coiullt  dJd  bting  in  ai  trcaiiutv  lo  the  Condyi  ihc  Soms  o( 
XKZVJ*  f*  **  whrrct  thrv  tukiihe  albw^iuace  for  ReperucJons  \tyti  oat  for  the  \ytiU 
camdj't  u  aui  apcjn:  hj  n  Mil  u(  the  particuLtis  the  some  of  vUi'  '^  So  ttat 
dcdaie  as  tr«uun  in  tlmJi  hatid««  lo  lk«  Coodyt  xiviij*  j*. 

The  snbsequenl  minutes  of  the  October  meetings  of  the  assembly 
almost  invariably  luime  masters  of  the  conduit  or  conduits  amongst 
the  annually  elected  borough  officials.  Very  early,  too,  in  these 
records  occur  the  mention  of  "  key  bearers  "  among  the  elected 
servants  of  the  corporation.  Under  the  year  1589,  the  term  is 
explained  by  the  fuller  title  of  "key  bearers  of  the  conduit,"  and 
|a  subsequent  entry  styles  them  "  key  bearers  of  every  conduit." 

An  assembly  of  July,  1583,  ordered  "that  there  sbalbc  a  Seys- 

'mcnl  made  of  xx"  to  be  levyede  out  of  all  the  Towoe  towards  the 

'bringing  home  ol  the  tondytte  and  every  man  (?  freeman)  to  fynd 

a  norkman  for  it)   dayes."    Nine   burgesses  were   appointed   as 

Lassessorf  to  coltect  the  rate.     If  nny  one  refused  or  neglected  to 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


Zm 
^ 


pay,  he  was  to  pay  a  fine   of  6s.  Sd-,  or  be  committed  to  pmon 
at  Mr.  Mayor's  discretion. 

In  1587  a  life  contract  was  entered  into  with  Willtara  Huth' 
plumber,  to  "  repairc  keepe  and  mayntayne  well  suflicicntlte  and  ut 
good  sorte  llie  cond^lte  with  tlie  cockes  cesteraes  p^lies  and  leade 
thereof,"  so  that  the  town  dwellers  may  have  a  great  plenty  of 
water.  The  town  also  covenanted  to  provide  HuUhwyti  at  ibeir 
■  cost  with  workmen  to  dig  the  ground,  and  to  purchase  sudi  oi 
cocks  and  lead  as  mi^hl  be  required  from  time  to  time 

Apparently  the  arrangement  with  Hulhwytt  was  not  satJsfactoty  ^ 
for  Id  1599  the  assembly  voted  five  pounds  to  James  Bra5eginilc^| 
and  John  Danbyc,  the  conduit  masters,  for  the  repairs  trf  llic  ■ 
ccmduit,  which  was  in  many  ways  in  decay.  ^m 

In  1604  it  was  again  reported  that  tbe  town  conduits  wctt^f 
"  greatly  in  decaye,"  and  it  was  ordered  that  five  pounds  be  raised  ^^ 
by  assessment. 

The  summer  of  1608  was  one  of  exceptional  drought,  and  tbe 
as:)embly.  at  a  meeting  in  August,  authorbed  the  conduit  mnsten 
to  shut  up  the  conduit  at  seven  o'clock  in  the  evening,  and  tokccpi 
them   locked   till    six    o'clock   the   following  morning     They  were! 
theo  to  remain  open  till  ten  o'clock  in  the  forenoon,  and  from 
hour  till   two  o'clock   in  the  afternoon  to  be  again   closed.    No< 
'  townsman  was,  by  himself  or  servant,  to  bring  or  send  more  than 
one  cowie  or  tub  to  fill  with  water  at  a  Lime,  and  he  was  qulellyj 
to  wait  bis  turn  at  the  conduit.    No  cowlc  or  tub  wa<i  to  be  broughtj 
to  any  conduit  but  such  as  would  stand  upright  under  thf  mnduit 
cock. 

;^|6  133.  4d.  was  raised   by  assessment  for   the  repairs  of 
conduit  on  two  different  occasions  in  1613;    j{|2o  in    1618:  j^io  ml 
i6ao  :  and  another  £10  in  1G37.    In  the  last-nanwd  year  the  money 
was  levied  for  the  repair  of  the  "conduits  and  lowne  arches" ;  by 
this   last   term  are   meant,   we  conclude,   the   open  archways  or^ 
colonnade  below  the  central    part  of   the  conduit   building  In  tbe^^ 
market  place,   which  had,  however,  been   already   Ailed  up  and 
utilised  for  shops. 

Owing  to  the  continual  fetching,  carrying,  and  drawing  of  water 
froai  the  conduit  by  innkeepers  and  victuallers  for  brewing  purposes,,  | 
there   was   frequently   great    scarceness  of    water.     The  asKmblr, 
therefore,  in  1630,  ordered  that  every  innkeeper  drawing  vnter 
brewing  purposes  should  pay  to  the  cliambcrlain  a,  6d.  for 


PUBLIC    HEALTH. 


*55 


every  several  brewin;:,  and  every  alehouse  keeper  12(1.  for  each 
brewif)}*,  aod  that  no  innkeeper  or  alehouse  keeper  bring  any  other 
K  grrater  tub  than  now  be  set  under  the  conduit  cocks  from  time 
lime- 
In  the  same  ycAT  it  was  agreed  that  the  chamberlain  should  cau^e 
lead  pipe,  ^aftcd  into  the  house  lately  occupied  by  Mr.  ticnsman 
iCo  the  large  lead  pipe  that  f;ueth  from  the  great  conduit  to  the 
Je  conduit,  to  be  cut  off  and  destroyed. 

la  1631  it  was  agreed  that  the  fines  under  the  order  of  1630,  as 
lying  for  water  brewing,  were  to  be    levied    by   the  conduit 
rs  and  tlie  thirdborough  of  the  checker  ward,  upon  a  warrant 
'tndet  the  mayor's  seal,  and  that  the  conduit  masters  were  to  be 
held  responsible  for  enforcing  fines  for  every  breach  of  the  order 
under  a  penalty  of  5s.  for  every  negligence. 

iDifficoltics  were  still  met  with  in  carrying  out  this  water  paying 
prdcr,  and  Id  1652  the  assembly  agreed  that  the  penalties  for  its 
breach    should    be  strictly   enforced   and    increased,   and  thai  any 
pfTcndins  innkeeper  or  alehouse  ket-per  or  thirdborough  (neglecting 
lis  duty)  should   be    fined  3s.  6d.,  23.  6d.  of  which  was  to  go  to 
the   corporation   and    I2d.   to  the    informer,    and    that  any  water 
carrier  carrying  ivalcr  from  the  conduits  to  any   innkeeper  or  ale- 
^  houae  keeper  before  lie  has  paid  the  imposed  sum  to  llic  cbamber- 
^^kan  or  any  6nes  that  may  be  due,  shall   be  himself  fined  i2d.  for 
Brvery  oflcncc. 

Tbe  shops  under  the  conduit  hall   were  leased   in   1650  for  61 

ycsrs  to  Mr.  John  Twigdcn,  at  a  rent  of  £4.     In   the    same  year 

the  stairs  for  going  up  into  the  conduit  hall  were  repaired  at  the 

Hdiaraber's  charge.     A  portion  of  the  buildings  beneath  the  conduit 

^BaU    were    used    in    this    century    as    a    bridewell,    or    house    of 

^Horrection,  as  has  been  already  slated  in  a  previous  section. 

^H     tn  1&56  a  committee,  consisting  of  the  mayor,  aldermen,  and  3 

^Kw  other  members  of  the  assembly,  was  appointed  to  confer  with 

^H|r.  Thomas  Morgan  and  Mr.  Francis  Cook,  and  other  inhabitants 

^^  Klngsihorpe.  to  obtain  liberty  to  have  the  spring  called  Swarbmts 

Head  brought  to  North.i.mpton  by  a  large  pipe,  and  to  arrange  (or 

feome  small  rent  as  an  acknowledgment   for  breaking  the  ground 

and  bringing  the  water. 

An  order  was  made  in  1684  prohibittn};  any  branch  pipes  or 
smicctions  from  either  of  the  conduits,  and  for  cutting  off  at  once 
ir.  Knighton's  pipe- 


256 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


In  16S5  it  was  ordered  that  the  surplus  money  from  the  sale 
of  the  mills  be  spent  upon  building  two  houses  at  the  conduit  halt, 
tn  1686  the  assembly  voted  £50  towards  the  building  of  these 
houses,  and  further  ordered  that  the  west  gate  should  be  takes 
down,  and  the  stones  and  materials  employed  in  the  buildings  at 
the  great  conduit .  1  n  the  following  year  j£  100  was  borrowed 
towards  "  building  and  finishing  the  howses  and  shopn  att  the  old 
Conduit  neere  the  Markett  place." 

The  assembly  gave  power  in  it^g  to  Mr.  Richard  Kaynsford 
and  others  to  break  up  the  ground  in  the  streets  and  other  places 
within  the  liberties  for  the  purpose  of  conveying  water  to  the 
town,  and  also  to  open  up  and  secure  any  springs  upon  void 
grounds.  Various  impediments  arose  in  the  working  out  of  this 
scheme. 

On  April  6lh,  1691,  it  wa.i  ordered  that  Richard  Rayusford, 
Francis  Arundell,  and  others  have  the  piece  of  ground  adjoining  of 
the  north  side  of  the  waterworks  near  Scarlet  well  for  j£|io,  and  to 
have  a  conveyance  of  the  same  under  the  common  seal. 

Scarlet  well  was  situated  at  the  north-west  side  of  the  town  at 
the  bottom  of  the  street  that  still  bears  its  name.  It  ccrtainiy 
was  of  repute  at  the  beginning  of  the  reign  of  Henry  III.,  and 
probably  in  the  previous  century.  Scarletwcll  street  is  mentioned 
in  a  British  Museum  charter  of  1239.  Tlic  old  tradition  that  the 
well  took  its  name  from  its  real  or  supposed  excellent 
qualities  for  scarlet  dyeing  is  undoubtedly  true.  According  to 
Morton's  history,  cloth  was  sent  here  from  London  to  he  dyed 
scarlet.  Two  of  the  earliest  industries  of  Northampton  were  the 
weaving  of  cloth  and  its  dyeing.  There  was  a  guild  or  fraternity 
of  dyers  at  Northampton  well  established  as  early  as  1274,  and  the 
town  bye-laws  of  the  next  ccnturj'  have  special  regulations  with 
r^ard  to  this  industry.  The  liner  kind  of  dyeing  was  usually  done 
in  the  Netherlands,  the  common  English  dyes  being  black,  and 
various  shades  of  brown  and  red. 

English  cloth  was  sometimes  sent  as  far  as  Italy  to  obtain  a  true 
scarlet  dye,  so  that  we  need  not  be  surprised  at  its  occasional 
excessive  cost.  As  much  as  fifteen  shillings  was  given  by  Ihc 
wfirden  of  Merton  College,  Oxford,  in  [379,  for  half  a  yard  d 
scarlet  cloth,  probably  for  some  ver)'  special  hood.  la  the  liftcentit 
century  certain  bales  of  cloth  that  had  been  sent  to  Nottinghaai 
to  be  dyed  ficarlct  emerged  from  the  vats  a  muddy  red,  and  viat 


I 
I 


PUBLIC    HEALTH. 


357 


bea   truuferred   by  the  merclunl*  to  Northampton  to  obtain  a 

er  colour.      Mrs.  Kerr,  the  widow  of  the  founder  of   the    new 

»firtnar>',    erected    "  a    neat   brick    building "    over    the    historic 

irletweU  in    1S37.      "^^^   building   still  exists,    hut   the  well    is 


ib( 

I 


Revised  plans  were  approved  by   the  assembly  in  September, 

703.      The  preamble    stated    that    Messrs.    Arundell.    Kaytisford, 

Ive»,  had  been  at  great   expense  in  "  erecting   a   Waterworlce 

m   the    Liberties  to  supply   all   persons    with  water,"    which 

irtakinj;  had  not  been  perfected.     It  was  therefore  ordered  that 

n  as  three  substantia)  workmen  shall  certify  that  the  pipes  are 

good  order  and  sufficient  to  convey  water  to  alt  persons  that  ever 

rented  water,  that  then  and  for  so  long  as  the  water  work  is  in  good 

order,  no  person  shall  fetch  water  from  either  the  great  or  the  little 

conduit,  in  any  vessel  that  will  hold  more  than  Gvc  gallons,  that  the 

conduit  masters  shall    use  their  utmost  diligence  in  seeing  that  no 

larger    vessels   are    u^ed,  in    keeping   the   conduits    locked   at  the 

usual  times,  and  by  prohibiting  housekeepers  .ind  innkeepers  from 

ising   the   conduit   water  for   washing   or   brewing,  and  that  the 

iDderiakers  may  act   for  the  conduit  masters  if  they  neglect  their 

nty. 

In  1708  reference  was  again  made  by  the  assembly  to  the  old 

nts  of  the  corporation  to  Messrs.  Kaynsford  and   Arundell  and 

s  of  liberty  to  break  up  the  pavements,  etc.,  and  to  lay  pipes  lo 

y  the  town  with  >Yater  from  Scarlet   well,  which  undertaking 

failed.     It  was  llien    reported   that    two  other   persons  were 

-willing  to  undrrtakc  thr  work,  and  lo  perform  i(  effectually.     The 

assembly  resolved  that  if  the  new  undertakers  would  give  j£^300  to 

ibe  old  undertakers,  and  supply   the  to^'n  with  water  duly  and 

instantly,  they  should  have  like  grants  to  the  old  ones.     In  case, 

wevcr,  the  old    undertakers  did   iwt   agree,  then  the  new  ones 

ihould    have  the  grants  provided  ihey  engaged  to  indemnify  the 

corporation  from  any  suits   or   charges   that    might    be   brought 

againia  them. 

The  orders  of  assembly  show  that  by  1712  Aldermau  Agutter 
bad  bought  the  old  watcrhouse,  and  works  and  grounds  adjoining ; 
at  that  dalP  the  corporation  granted  him  a  very  small  plot  of 
on  the  north-east  of  Ihe  waterhousc,  on  the  nominal  payment 

* 

The  conduits   were  not.   however,  given  up,  and   in   1716  the 

s 


358 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


mayor  was  directed  to  arrange  with  workmen  for  the  thorougl 
repair  and  amendment  of  tltc  pipes  from  the  conduit  head  in  the 
fields  to  the  great  conduit,  to  secure  a  better  supply  of  water,  and 
be  was  instructed  to  borrow  money  under  the  town  seal  for  this 
purpose. 

The  revised  scheme  proving  equally  futile,  the  assembly,  in 
1717,  authorised  the  expenditure  of  £l6o  io  endeavouring  to 
obtain  an  act  of  parliament  for  supplying  the  town  with  water, 
"for  supplying  the  necessary  uses  of  the  inhabitants  and  for  the 
prevention  of  any  future  calamity  that  may  happen  by  fire." 

Meanwhile,  in  1719,  Mr.  William  Wylces  made  an  elaborate 
proposal  for  securing  a  complete  »'ater  supply,  which  was  accepted, 
and  full  power  was  conferred  on  bim  of  using  the  river,  streams, 
and  springs  as  he  thought  best,  and  of  utilising  all  old  cisterns 
and  pipes  throughout  the  liberties. 

In  [730  the  assembly  assigned  full  control  of  the  great  and 
little  conduits,  and  transferred  to  him  the  duty  of  appointing 
conduit  master  or  masters,  proWded  that  none  of  the  inhabitants 
were  to  be  hindered  using  the  conduits  until  such  time  as  the 
main  pipes  were  fully  supplied,  nor  when  they  were  out  of  order, 
it  was  ordered  that  the  waterworks  should  not  be  tared  to  the 
public  or  parish  taxes. 

In  1721  it  was  announced  that  the  works  were  very  far 
advanced  and  nearly  finished,  and  the  assembly  entered  into  a 
further  and  stringent  covenant  with  Mr.  Wykes,  whereby  the  former 
grants  were  established,  and  particularly  that  of  prohibiting  any 
inhabitant  from  drawing  more  than  three  gallons  from  the  aid 
conduits  in  one  day. 

The  mayor  and  aldermen,  on  November  25th,  1738,  agreed  to 
the  following  preamble: — 

"  Whereas  there  often  is  and  of  late  hath  been  a  very  great 
Scarcity  of  water  in  the  Conduits  belonging  to  the  Town  of 
Northampton  So  that  the  principal  Inhabitants  are  put  to  great 
Inconveniencys  by  their  servants  waiting  so  long  before  they  can  get 
any  Water  occasioned  chiefly  by  persons  fetching  Water  to  sell,  and 
for  washing  and  brewing  in  great  Quantity  contrarj*  to  the  ancient 
Customs  and  Usages  of  this  Corporation.'*  The  order  based  on  this 
preamble  was  to  the  effect  that  they  requested  .Mr.  Wykes  to  direct 
his  conduit  keepers  to  prevent  any  one  from  fetching  water  from  either 
of  the  conduits  for  selling,  washing,  or  brewing,  and  that  he  wUI 


I 


PUBLIC    HEALTH 


239 


•affer    the    conduiL-i  to  be  <q)en  but  three  hours  in  the  morning, 
and  the  like  space  of  time  in  the  afierooon. 

In  1751  the  assembly  gave  leave  to  Mr.  Henry  Locock  (the 
mayor)  and  other  subscribers  to  &ink  a  well,  and  erect  and  enclose 
|a  pump  for  their  own  use,  and  that  of  their  heirs  and  assigns, 
upon  a  piece  of  waste  ground  belonging  to  the  corporation  at 
the  top  o(  the  Draper>',  provided  that  in  case  of  any  publick 
calamity  or  misfortune  bj'  fire,  the  inhabitants  of  the  whole  toun 
arc  to  be  al  liberty  to  have  and  fetch  the  said  water  towards  ex- 
tinguishing the  flames  thereof  gratis. 

In  the  same  year  like  authority,  with  a  like  proviso,  was  given 
to  eight  persons  to  sink  a  well  and  erect  a  pump  upon  the  ground 
in  the  open  street  near  their  dwellings,  at  the  lop  of  Bridge  street, 
provided  also  "  that  the  passage  of  all  the-  kings  people  as  well 
on  horseback  as  on  fool  with  their  horses  cattle  carts  and  car- 
riages goods  wares  and  merchandizes  be  tiot  stopped  or  obstructed 
from  freely  passing  and  repassing  at  their  free  will  and  pleasure 
and  also  that  the  said  subscribers  doe  erect  and  set  a  Lamp 
upon  the  said  intended  pump  and  keep  the  same  constantly  lighted 
and  burning  in  all  dark  nights  till  break  of  day  between  Michaelmas 
and  tjdyday  for  ever." 

Leave  was  also  given  at  the  end  of  the  same  year  to  a  small 
number  of  subscnbcrs  to  sink  a  well  and  erect  yet  another  pump 
io  the  open  street ;  it  was  situate  in  the  Drapery  against  the  lane 
leading  from  thence  into  the  Market  Hill.  It  was  to  he  furnished 
with  a  lamp  in  like  manner  to  the  one  in  Bridge  street. 

In  1752  the  assembly  ordered  that  the  governor  and  trustees 
of  the  county  hospital  may  have  the  privilege  at  their  cost  and 
charge  of  convej'ing  t)>e  water  running  waste  from  the  great  con- 
duit at  the  lower  end  of  the  Market  Mill  to  (ill  and  supply  a  large 
cistern  lately  made  and  fixed  at  the  hospital,  and  intended  to  be 
used  as  a  cold  bath. 

In  1830  the  committee  for  the  erection  of  a  wall  and  iron 
rails  round  All  Saints'  churchyard  petitioned  the  assembly  for 
leave  to  remove  the  little  conduit  at  the  south-west  comer  of  the 
churchyard.  The  petition  was  referred  to  the  committee  of  survey 
and  they  were  requested  to  consider  of  the  propriety  of  doing  away 

with  the  great  conduit  as  well  as  the   little  conduit,  constructing 

ooe  large  tank. 

S  3 


26o 


NORTHAMPTON  DOROUC.H  RECORDS. 


divard 
no  H 


In  1S31  the  committee  advised   and  the  assembly  approred  oT 
the  erection  of  a  large  tank  capable  of  holding  at  least  fifty  hogs, 
heads  on  the  Wood  Hill,  at  the  south-4!ast  angle  of  the  church; 
and   that   the   corporation   take  down   the    little   condoit  oo 
completion. 

It  was  reported  to  the  August  aueinbly,  1S31,  that  the  new  tanks 
and  pjmps  had  been  completed  on  Wood  hill  some  montbai  aad 
answered  exceedingly  well,  that  tliere  had  been  no  water  in  cither 
of  the  conduits  since  the  tanks  were  used,  and  that  the  public  seemed 
quite  satisfied.  The  assembly  resolved  at  once  to  take  down  the 
little  conduit,  so  thai  the  wall  and  palisading  round  the  churdiyord 
might  be  completed. 

The  following  interesting  entry  of  the  last  year  of  James 
relative  to  street  noises,  shows  how  frequent  n-as  the  use  o( 
carts  throughout  the  town.  In  order  to  prevent  the  noi^e 
the  damage  to  the  pavements  done  by  the  continual  dranmg 
of  diverse  water  carts  "which  are  shod  with  nealcs  and  iron,'' 
it  was  agreed  by  the  assembly  on  October  14th,  1614,  that 
40s.,  to  be  tcncd  by  distress,  should  be  Uie  penalty  un  aay 
person  within  the  liberties  who  had  a  watcrnrart  thus  iioa* 
shod.  Half  the  penalty  was  to  go  to  the  poor,  and  half  to  tbc 
chamber.  Those  who  had  iron-shod  water  carL«-  wt:r«  to  hate 
till  the  day  after  the  next  fair  day  (when  there  would  be 
opportunity  of  buying  new  wheels)  before  the  penalty  wu 
imposed. 

This   Jacobean   order    is  of   much    interest  with  regard   to  ti 
construction  of   carls.     It    ig  clear,  from    ihis  order,  thai  even 
thai  time  the  ordinary  carl  was  simply  pos^ssed  of  plain  nxtodeii 
wheels,  called  in  the  old    farm    inventories  planot  or  nudof  to  dis- 
tinguish them  from  prepared  wheels,  which  were  termed  /erra 
or  rots  ad  Ugandxtm.    The  comparative  dearness  of  iron  made 
fofefatliers  content,  for  a  long  peritxl,  to  have  their  rougher 
of  carls  home  on  «olid  wheels,  made  simply  in  one  piece  from 
section   of   a   lai^e   tree,  and   bored  for  a  rude  axle.    Such 
constantly  appear  in  niedie%-al  drawings  of   agricultural  o; 
The  occasional  use  of  the  solid  wheel  cootinued  far  later 
period,  as  is  shown  by  the  Nortliamptoa  traverse  toll  regu 
of  the  next  century. 

The  town  was  at  nu  Lime  altogetlicr  dependent  upon  the  condu' 
for  the  water  supply.     In  the  time  of  Elizabeth  iheie  nas  ai  least 


ros 

I 


PUBLIC    HEALTH. 


261 


pump  kq>t  in  repair  by  the  town  authorities,  and  soon  alter- 
tmrdft  we  find  that  various  wells  were  similarly  maintained. 

In  1571.  the  chamberlains  were  ordered  to  see  to  "the  makinge 

tbe  ptimpe  in  the  market  place," 

This  pump  in  t]ir  chequer  was  frequently  repaired  during  the 
best  twenty  years,  and  at  last  the  asscinhly,  in   1593,  decided  to 

ilish  the  pump,  and  re-establish  a  drawing  well  on  the  site. 

Before  long,  however,  a  new  pump   must  have  been  provided, 

in  July,  1603.  the  assembly  voted  20s.  to  be  expended  by  the 

imbcrlains:  — 

For  ittA  («nrd«i  lh«  r«pure  ol  th«  ponip«  wllhln  Cheek«T  warde  lufh  ihf 
Omw  hltl  then,  we  as  the  Inhabitsiiu  ntut  ddjujrntng  w  dwelling  10  Ibc  laide 
pcmar  At^  ceuac  ibc  tcuat  pooipe  bioithwitltc  (0  b«  well  >nd  sulBcientlie  np.iyred 
ir    ill  ifLinfM  at  thelf  cmvm  proper  cosies  and  charges  over  and  nbovc  (he  aid  sume 

iweiRie  ihilHags. 

Yet  a  further  change  was  made  in  1605,  wlicn  it  was  resolved 

that  the  pump  over  the  well    near  the   market  cro&s   be  removed, 

that  it  might  onct:!  again  be   used  as  a  draw-well.     Soon  after 

^his  Lhp  well  was  enclosed  after  an  ornamental  fashion,  and  roofed 

rith  lead. 

In  1639  it  was  ordered  that  the  wells  at  Mercers'  row,  in  All 

faints'  churchyard,  near  St.  Giles'  churchyard,  and  in  St.  Michael's 

ie  should  all  be  repaired  at  ihe  public  charge. 

In  1U18  the  two  tou'n  pumps,  one  in  the  market  place,  and  the 

j^bthcr  by  All  Saints'  church,  were  ordered   to  be  repaired  at  the 

^Bown  charge. 

^1      The    mayor  was  ordered  and  authorised,  in    1745,   to  put   the 

^Bucnps    on    the    Market    hill,  and   by  Mercers'    row,   adjoining  All 

^Kaiats*  cliurchyard  wall,  in  proper  repair. 

^^  A*  early  as  the  thirteenth  century  there  is  documcntarj-  evidence 
ol  tlic  existence  of  a  well,  outside  Northampton,  dedicated  to  St. 
Tboina*  A  Becket,  A  modern  would-be  legend  asserts  that  the 
archbishop  pausrd  to  drink  here  on  his  night  flight  from  North- 
ampton, on  th<>  morning  of  October  19th,  1165,  and  that  il  thence 
derived  its  narac.  The  folty  of  this  tale  is  obvious  when  we 
consider  that  the  archbi^op  escaped  from  ihe  north  gate,  and 
proce«ded  along  the  north  road.  Why,  when  making  that  secret 
^flight  on  horseback,    he  should    have  ridden  all  round  the  town  to 

^bet  to  this  well  on  the  south-east  side,  no  explanation  is   offered. 

^Kor  are   we  told  what  produced  this  sudden  thirst,  when  he  had 


362 


NORTHAMI'TON   BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


1,  hid  — 
witM 


but    a    few-   minutes    L«fore    left    die  comfortable  quitters  tS  Sit 

Andrew's  priory. 

The  fact  is  that  this  well,  like  many  of  a  similar  dedication,  had 
its   origin    in  the  small    phials   of  "Canterbury  water"  almo«( 
variably  brought  back  by  the  Canterbury  pilnrinis  in  the  earlfi 
of  the  Becket  shrine.    These  phials  contaJDcd  water  mingled 
minute  particles  of  the  blood  of  the  martyred  saint,   which  w; 
supposed   to   be   possessed  of   curative  properties     Some  of   ihr 
faithful  pilgrims  on  their  return  shortly  after  the  murder,  obtained 
leave  from  the  local  ecclesiastical  authorities  to  empty  their  phials 
into  some  pure  spring  or  well,  which  was  then  solemnly  bicsscdj 
and  assi^ed  to  the  special  protection  of  St.  Tliomas  of  Caalerboryfl 

LonK  after  the  Reformatiun  the  well  was  held  in  special  repute, 
and  guarded  from  dcBlcmcnt.  The  orders  of  assembly  in  r62g 
strictly  enjoined  that  no  glover  was  to  hang  or  lay  any  she 
skins  or  leather  upon  the  het^e  of  St.  Thomas'  well. 

In    1718   an    iron   dish    was    purchased   for   St.   Thomas' 
at    a    coat    of    2s.   6d.,    and   a  chain    for    the   same   at    gi. 
is  an   unusually  early   instance   of  a   drinking  vessel   permanenttj 
attached  to  a  well.      In  1765    los.  6d.  was  paid  for  a  ladle  for  the' 
same  well. 

The  chamberlain's  accounts   for  almost  every  year  iroro  about 
this  date  to  the  end  of  the  century,  included  a  charge  of  6s. 
the  cleansing  of  St.  Thomas'  well.     In    the  year    1800  occurs  tl 
following  charge: — "Cave  and  others  for  undcrdraining   and 
at  St  Tho's  Well,  ^4  3-  ^^.■' 

The  present  somewhat  pretentious  structure  over  the  wef 
erected  by  the  corporation  in  1843  at  a  cost  of  jC^io. 

Not  far  from  the  clear  spring  of  St.  Thomas'  well  an  tnterectt 
discovery  of  a  spring  of  chalybeate  water  was  made  ia  the 
1702.     It   received  the  name  of  Vigo  because  its  discovery 
chronised    with  the  capture  and   sacking   of   the   port   of   Vigo, 
Spain,  by  the  combined   English  and  Dutch  Heets.    The  mc 
men  of  the  town  and  district  were  loud  in  pr.ii»e  of   its   medicii 
qualities,  and  several  extra ordinarj*  cures  were  effected  by  lU  ut 
Some  of  the  more  spirited  inhabitants  hoped  that  the  txyrtn  might, 
ere  long,  become  a  watering  place  of  no  small  repute. 

In  1703  the  assembly  gave  the  mayor  power  to  expend  /30 
planting  trees,    making   waUu,    "  and   other   occasions   and   coi 
veniences  to  be  omamentall  and  usefoil  To  make  good  and  pr 


PL'BLIC    HEALTH. 


263 


«. 

d. 

1 

6 

i9 

6 

«5 

0 

6 

« 

1 

3 

the  New  wells  lately  found  in  tlic  Cow  Meadow  against  the  Clack 
MUU." 

Id  the  following  year  ttic  £^  was  laid  out  in  accordance  with 
the  rewlution,  and  the  mayor's  accounts  for  I70S'6  contain  the 
following  additional  items; — 

P*^i  Booiw  fetchlnf  4  TtMs  (or  iIm  Wells  trom  Kingnhorpe      ... 

P*  for  y>  nuke*  and  wii(«ri«2  Hftd  Ulltog  («r«  of  the  Tree*     

P*  tor  a  min  tu  help  htm  to  tyin««  lo  water  the  lr«M       

P*  M'  Clarkv  (or  Thonu  t«  Eeoce  the  ticca  

P*  (or  Bllvb 

Id  1784  the  new  walk,  upwards  of  300  yards  long,  connecting 
Uic  two  wells,  was  laid  out  at  considcrahlr  expense.  The  following 
IS  the  order  of  the  court  of  aldennan  with  respect  to  it,  which  was 
pssscd  at  their  meeting  on  October  29th,  1783. 

Thki  ■  Gravel  walk  b«  formed  aad  made,  aad  a  taw  of  Trota  iu«h  u  (b«  pfcMol 
Ounberlaitw  M*  Jo^n  Lu^  and  if  Aldernun  Cole  ihall  approve  of  be  planted 
aa  •otm  «a  the  m4ao«  will  pM-mit  at  lh«  Corporation  expend  from  tb«  Turn  Stile 
M  Co«  Mndowe  Uate  tiesr  Thomat  i  Brrkirttt  Well  to  tango  in  a  tlraighl  Line  10 
Vice  Weil,  nnd  tbal  the  ume  be  propnly  Fenced  lo  preserve  them  from  the  Ciittlc 
anil  incout^e  the  Grownh  thereof  in  Order  to  form  an  agree&ble  shelter  between 
Iha  nld  TtMa. 

Sanitary  Condition  of  the  Streets  and  Houses. 

The  orders  relative  to  the  paving  and  cleansing  of  the  streets, 
and  the  condition  of  the  houses,  are  frequent  and  interesting.  The 
corporation  of  Northampton  were  well  ahreast  of  the  tioies  in  the 
rartous  sanitary  precautions  that  they  took  during  the  late  Tudor 
and  early  Sluaj-t  ilays. 

In  the  first  year  of  Elii^beth  it  was  ordered  that  "no  man  shall 
make  a  stable  of  a  tenement  «landinge  in  the  High  streete  nor 
put  any  such  tenement  to  the  use  of  a  stable  upon  the  pcyne  of 
XX.*  to  the  chamber."  The  term  "  High  "  as  applied  to  the  street 
in  this  order  docs  not  refer  to  any  (pecific  thoroughfare  of  that 
name,  but  is  a  generic  term  applying  to  all  the  public  main 
strtsitB,  and  corresponds  to  the  term  "highway"  as  still  in 
rt:^lar  u&c. 

At  the  name  assembly  it  was  ordered  that  "  ail  men  that  breake 
any  pavement  for  any  boothc  stall  pay  xij*  for  everj-  hole  made, 
or  else  shall  leave  it  as  good  as  they  fynde  it  upon  like  paine 
of  iii«. ' 


2^ 


NORTHAMr-TON     BOROUCH    RECORDS. 


In  1566  the  assembly  enjoined  upoa  all  Lbo&e  wbo  foUoweU  the 
occupation  Oi[  '*  wliiitawcrs  and  tanncrcs"  the  duty  of  ocicc  ci'crjr 
year  cleansing  the  towne  of  all  manner  of  carrion  aad  curioo  boM* 
according^  lo  ancittnt  custom,  and  forbade  them  killing  any  muiner 
of  "  niurrian  and  carrion  bca&tcs "  save  in  the  appointed  places- 
At  the  same  time  the  inhabitants  were  warned  that  any  one  de- 
positing carrion  or  carrion  bones  id  tbe  streets,  or  anywhere  save 
in  the  appointed  places  would  be  lined  lot^. 

The  following  elaborate  and  stringent  order  was  agreed  to  by 
the  assembly  on  September  I5tb.  1568:— 

That  whneas  her«lofore  ibere  hstb  byn  ordera  taken  di««n  aad  tanduj  tywm 
tor  tba  Rvfonnation  of  ibc  gnatt  disorder  of  ike  InhalMUuiita  d  thu  Iowxik  m 
Lapnj  u(  thcr  awcpingtc  of  thrr  howMS  and  ntbvr  dtingc  and  fylihv  In  iyrwrta 
placis  uf  this  lownc  (o  the  great  nttocnraDnrc  of  the  inhabitd'itilca  ihcTcof,  V^'kidi 
ordon  beingt  nothicK*  way^.  but  all  tCSbW  n«£l(ctMl  byn  number  of  4it(trimi» 
ind  erytl  iltpoMid  perwMS  Contrv;  to  the  expcct^lloni  of  uich  u  tain  faita  la 
raalcinc  tbe  Mide  ordets,  It  b  thtnfvn  tboagfat  ^odc  znd  at  tbli  premit  mtmbtr 
yt  jt  MtablUhnd  ihai  no  common  duoghlll  shalbe  nude  ulthm  the  fptct  of  Iba 
wwnc  but  ahogcihcf  ai  tbuK  plads  apolnred  to  wh  irithoui  th«  wcM  (ate  b;  I>m 
Rivvfc  side,  and  without  the  aotthe  gale,  and  wldiout  tbe  east  gate  oa  ih«  (jgfcl 
bande,  aed  Dlticr  without  ihc  duriw  fate,  and  for  the  oouthc  parte  at  the  bnalw  bf 
tbe  River  side,  and  who  sotvci  iluUbc  l^eo  laytD^e  ur  krwmro  to  hj  307  kindf 
off  *vr.p\T.gr  din»  Or  dunge  in  any  othvr  pl*c«  but  only  in  ikeise  &*«  plicxi 
apointvd  shall  'forfeit  aad  pay  for  every  time  so  otTendint^e  *ij'  (arigioally  wrirten 
■iij*),  holEe  to  the  preientet  and  the  otbci  halCe  to  tbe  pore  mint  boxs  wHthoW 
favor  or  pardon,  or  else  impri«oneiii«a(  at  M*  Mayor*  pleasure. 

In  1579  the  assembly  decided  not  to  leave  tbe  carrying  out  6f 
the  just  cited  order  to  private  informers,  and  appointed  six 
overseers  "  to  look  that  the  people  in  every  quarter  lay  ther  duste 
and  other  fylthe  at  placis  appO)'nted."  Six  such  overseers  u*ere 
chosen,  who  served  respectively  in  "  Checker  and  Ne^vlaade 
Northc  quarter  theste  quarter  weste  qtiartcr  sowthc  quarter  and 
KyngcswcIlajTie." 

On  March  8th.  15S0,  owing  to  tbe  great  overcrowding  of  the 
poorer  houses  of  Northampton,  it  was  ordered  that  henceforth  not 
more  than  one  family  shall  inhabit  one  house,  and  that  all  those 
who  within  the  last  three  years  had  come  into  the  town  and  taken 
up  their  residence  wilhouL  having  a  houM  of  their  own,  •khall  leave 
the  town  before  the  next  feast  of  St.  John  Bapti^.  upon  pain  at 
expulsion.  Every  landlord  penntlting  3  houfe  to  be  ixcupied  by 
more  Uian  cme  family  was  to  be  6ned  6s.  8d.  a  quarter. 


PUBLIC    HEALTH. 


a65 


i 


In  the  following  year  the  constables  ol  the  diflerent  wards  were 
ordered  to  see  to  the  due  observance  of  the  above  ordinance,  and 
to  gi^'e  notice  to  the  laadldrds  of  aoy  overcrowding  by  poor  folk 
who  may  have  lately  eittercd  into  the  town. 

In  i6oD  it  was  decided  that  no  one  should  convert  any  dwelling 

se  or  other  building  into  diverse  habitations  or  dwellings  for 
several  families,  except  such  separate  habitations  as  were  fit  to  be 
assessed  for  royal  subsidies  at  20s.  a  year,  under  a  penalty  of  £5 
per  quarter.  It  was  at  the  same  time  ordered  that  no  one  should 
receive  any  "inmate  or  undcrsitter"  into  his  house. 

In  1588  the  assembly  formally  recited  and  revived  the  sanitary 
order  of  156^,  and  ordered  it  to  be  strictly  enforced,  imposing  also 
a  fine  of  10^.  on  all  having  mucWheaps  or  dunghills  anywhere  on 
their  premises  who  did  not  instantly  remove  them  to  one  of  the 
;ve  appointed  place*.  At  the  same  assembly  one  William  Wheeler 
■was  permitted  to  build  a  porch  to  his  dwelling  house  projecting 
four  feet  into  the  street  (leaving  room  for  two  carts  to  pass  each 
other),  on  the  condition  that  he  scoured  and  kept  clean  from  all 
hlth  the  dyke  lying  over  against  his  dwelling. 

The  old  order  of  1568  was  again  recited  and  revived  in  1592. 
In- 1599  a  more  stringent  and  extended  order  tgok  its  place,  whereby 
all  blocks  of  wood  or  piles  of  timber  as  well  as  all  manner  of  tilth 
and  refuse  lying  at  the  doors  or  backside  of  any  dwelling  or  in  any 
orchard,  garden  or  grounds  within  the  town,  were  to  be  removed  to 
one  of  the  live  appointed  places  (the  fifth  is  termed  "the  place 
called  Ihe  Breake  in  the  Cow  meadowe  by  the  river  ")  under  penalty 
of  the  householder  or  tenant  of  such  land  being  fined  los.  or  suffering 
imprisonment.  Any  one  by  himself,  or  through  his  children  or 
servants,  depositing  anything  noisome  or  unseemly  in  any  streets 
or  lanes  or  in  any  channel  or  gutter  m  the  town  was  to  be  fined 
3  shilling. 

By  vote  of  the  assembly  in  i6ot  a  town  scavenger  was  first 
ippointed.  His  salary  was  £13  6s.  8d.,  paid  quarterly,  and  raised 
by  a  special  assejiMnent  on  the  first  distinctly  saniury  rate.  It 
his  duty  to  see  to  the 

C)«niiRK  conwjricig  nnd  carrying  away  weeklte  ever^c  weeke  of  a!l  the  tnuc-ke. 
doutiKc  compoiic,  mreipingcs,  And  offal  unlinarilie  arising  lud  ur  made  wiihlii  the 
nide  towne,  to  be  mpt  nnd  laide  aa  hcapM  by  «<r«ri«  hou<choId«r  bit  *er<rauat(« 
or  KMigna  wteldiE  before  cvofic  their  <!om  and  lakes  ai>d  caryed  to  the  commcn 
muckhiUe  and  pia„,  appoynted  by  the  said  skerinjer,  Proridcd  allwaya  and  oeTer. 
tlicl«3  that  yt  yi  meol  intended  aod  ordarod  that  Ihe  uide  sltevinjcr  foe  th«  tyToa 


i66 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


I 


(»•»£«,  iball  not  b«  chirgcd  or  chargeable  irith  the  conveying  knd  canyini^c  kmyv 
of  injr  Diucke,  douRge.  siwccpiitgn,  and  oBall  out  of  ante  other  itnetc  or 
itnel«9  other  than  aucb  Micete  or  screeccs  that  are  to  be  paved  by  ihiaat  uf  par- 
lUm«nt  In  that  cue  provided,  iMr  vnth  the  Ckn^ing  of  anie  murtce  rinnell  or  nfifall 
anonj;  coming  or  being  of  by  n»Km  of  iinie  buildinge  or  inch  like  extn  ordiparic, 
occaii«n. 

[n  1603  the  last  cited  order  was  confirmed  and  re-ordained  by 
the  assembly,  the  names  of  the  stpeets  and  highways  subject 
lh«  weekly  visit  of  the  scavenger  being  recited.  They  were  "  the 
highewayes  from  the  gate  of  the  *aide  towne  in  the  North  unto 
the  bridge  called  St  Thomas  bridge  in  the  south,  and  in  the  waye 
from  the  gate  in  the  westc  unto  the  gate  in  the  east  and  also  in  the 
streate  called  Beareward  streate  St  Giles  streate* .  .  .  .  Kingswell 
streate  St  Maries  streate  and  the  waye  called  the  Market   place." 

A  later  assembly  of  the  fiame   year    raised    the  salary  of  the  ^ 
the  town  "  skevinger  or    raker"  to  j(^i6,  and  somewhat  altered  Ihe^ 
list  of  roads   for   which    he  was   to   be    responsible.     The   revised 
order  describes  them  as  follows  : — "  From  the  southe  gate  to  the  lane 
shoeting  upon  the  farme  in  the  north  streete  late  TJiomas  Hopkyns 
deceased  and  from  St  Peters  chi'rchyarde  in  the  west  aoe  farre  as 
anie  howse  ys  in  Abington  streete  within  the  East  gate   and  all! 
the  wayes  and   strectes  chargeable  by   Acte  of    Parliament  to  be 
paved  except  the  lane  called  Kingswell    lane  and    the  lane 
College  lane." 

This  refers  to  the  paving  legislation  for  Northampton  for 
year  1431  fully  described  in  the  lirst  volume  of  this  work.  It  is 
obvious  that  the  two  great  roads  through  Northampton,  north  and 
south,  and  east  and  west,  were  "  highways,"  and  that  the  town^A 
was  in  a  special  sense  responsible  for  the  cleaning  and  paving  of^ 
these  thoroughfares.  The  other  streets,  such  as  Bcarward  street, 
and  Kingswell  street,  take  us  back  to  the  earlier  Anglo-Norman 
days,  when  tlie  town  was  smaller,  and  these  in  their  turn  vrere  the 
main  highways. 

\Ve  have  noted  two  references  to  the  old  custom  of  the  part^| 
paving  of  the  streets  by  the  respective  honseholders  in  the  earlier  " 
orders  of  assembly,  ^ 

The  assembly  of  April  19th,  1571,  thus  began  their  entries:— H 

[mprimi*  For  the  better  main  ten  au  nee  and    repairinge   of   the  higtie  «iT«cte«  in 
pftrlng  of  the  same  accurdinge  to  lh«  ancteni   customc  therefor  tnade.  It  is  ax  thb  , 


■  Blank  in  oriRlnal.    Thit  blank  »beutl  read  " Sw^inrfll,**  ani  after  St  Marin  (trcAlc iWo"  ' 
^  hiacrtfd  Si,  Mftrtli)'*  Rre^.     St*  Lttr*  Ciftn^^xnum, 


PUBLIC    HEALTH. 


praaent  aMsmbty  rondicendid  knd  agreed  that  tkc  cti.imb«ttaitica  «f  Northsmpton 
for  tfat  time  bviege  shall  evene  yen  onc«  In  a  quarter  jrerelj  go  ibrougha  tbo 
streelo  in  ever}-  quarter  of  ih«  (owne,  and  ihail  icrchc  and  ovctkc  the  luirinj^t:  of 
the  slcMei  that  every  man  do  pave  hi>  dire  aceontinge  l«  the  ancient  cuvtome  and 
grauM  mAde  by  the  kin(;e  and  his  proseniton:  And  the  »aide  Chamberlaini  shall 
once  in  the  ^uaiur  <i  lh«  yen  declare  to  the  ttiayor  for  the  lime  bcin^  ihe  namec 
of  those  person«i  yt  do  the  hcke  paringn  Mnd  who  they  be  that  do  dwell  and 
OCCuple  ike  |;ioundos.  And  fur  Uckc  of  loche  serche  and  answer  to  be  midc  aud 
given  ofice  in  a  Quarter  to  the  mayor  every  sorhe  chamberlaine  shall  pay  ssd 
foifejl  to  the  utc  of  the  rhambtr  as  treature  lij*  iii)*  The  name*  of  the  ttteeCs  to 
be  duely  pavid. 

tnipnmis  l^e  Cherlcei  with  all  the  precinctes  belongin^e  to  ihe  same. 

The  oldc  drapcrle  with  all  ihc  prcdiicics  bclonginge  to  the  same. 

The  bridge  sttcete  the  south  quarter  without  Ihe  south  gale  and  all  the  precincte 
of  the  satiie. 

The  northe  straetee  the  boward  sCrecte  Saiat  G'det  Mraete  Habingtoa  strecte 
and  the  gold  streete  and  all  the  precinctes  of  the  same  strtetes. 

In  1617  occurs  the  following:— 

Whereiu  the  High  way  leadinj;  from  the  North  gate  lo  the  hetber  end  of  St 
S«ppulcbr««  Churrliyarde  within  this  Corporation  lyith  very  UndocenI  and  anlitling 
for  the  pAsuge  of  His  Maties  subjects  and  in  the  winter  lime  it  to  ihe  great  annoy- 
ance aad  dancer  of  bia  Maties  said  subjects  that  iray  conieing;  for  prcventivn  and 
amendmcM  whereof  it  is  ajpeed  .ind  ordered  that  every  person  thM  hath  or  hoideth 
any  land  about  Si  Sepulchres  Chuichyarde  to  pare  and  mend  so  tnuch  of  the  same 
way  with  pible  ns  by  Uw«  is  spptu'nted  and  the  r«sidu«  thcraof  lo  be  pavsd  and 
amended  at  the  charge  of  the  corporation  in  like  manner  before  the  said  feast  day 
of  All  Salntcn. 

Another  entry,  earlier  in  the  reign  of  James,  as  to  the  sanitary 
condition  of  a  certain  thoroughfare  is  noteworthy.  In  1609  a 
great  complaint  u-as  made,  and  the  corporation  much  blamed 
for  the  conditbn  of  a  lane  leading  from  the  backside  of  the 
Lion  (in  the  Draper}')  dawn  to  the  Horsemarket.  It  was  described 
as  61  thy  and  noisome,  which  was  particularly  vexatious,  as  it  was 
the  usual  passage  to  the  castle  for  thost;  attending  the  a<«sizes  and 
sessions  of  the  judges  and  justices  of  tlie  county.  Order  was  made 
that  the  owners  or  occupiers  of  lands  or  tenements  abutting  on  the 
lane  were  at  their  own  co-l  to  amend,  make,  and  level  the  ground 
on  both  sides  to  the  middle  of  the  way  in  such  manner  as  shall  be 
prescribrd  by  the  chamberlains,  under  a  penalty  of  forty  shilling*. 

It  was  ordered  in  1629  that  the  day  for  cleaning  and  sweeping  the 
streets  and  grounds  within  the  liberties  should  be  Monday  in  every 
week,  that  every  inhabitant  shall  on  th-tt  day  sweep  and  cleanse  Ihe 
shoots  and  ways  against  his  house  and  grounds  under  pain  of  l2d. 


368 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RGCORDS. 


At  the  time  of  the  sicg«  (1642)  special  attention  waR  paid  t« 
onilary  matters.  The  continual  annoyance  of  verj-  many  muck  liiUii 
in  the  streets  was  cooccived  to  arise  from  the  want  of  an  official 
fcavenjjcr.  Accordingly,  at  an  assembly  held  on  No*-em>J<r  i5lh  ol 
that  year,  it  was  ordered  that  Ntcholas  Harman  be  appoiatcd 
scavenger  at  a  stipend  of  twenty  martis  per  annum- 
Two  years  later  there  was  a  like  complaint  of  very  many  mode 
hills  in  the  streets  and  lands  within  the  walls,  which  were  a  great 
annoyance  and  source  oi  danger  of  infection.  The  assenohly  ordered  j 
ao  assessroeot  of  £30  on  all  iohabiiants  to  secure  the  iicimediate  fl 
removal  of  all  filth.  In  September,  1645,  £40  was  raised  by  a  epcciii]  ™ 
cca  on  al!  of  ability  to  pay  a  scavenger  £10  a  quarter  10  carry 
away  all  muck  hills  for  a  whole  year. 

In  the  perilous  times  of  1642  it  was  enacted  that  every  bDuie* 
holder  taxed  to  the  poor  shall  hang  out,  every  dark  winter  erenioE , 
a  lanibom  with  a  candle  alighted  in  it,  from  5  o'clock  till  9,  for  the 
lighting  of  passengers  to  and  fro  in  th<--  streets,  excepting  only  ttich 
nights  as  the  moon  shineth.  Id  order  that  householders  might  know 
the  hour  when  they  were  to  set  up  their  lanthoms  the  bellman  n-as 
ordered  to  toll  the  great  bell  of  All  Saints  every  dark  evening  al 
5  o'clock.  The  penalty  for  neglect  was  2d.,  which  was  to  go  to  the 
bellman. 

The  assembly  held  on  December  jotb,  168S,  made  a  like  order. 
which  was  to  bold  good  until  March  ist.  The  penalty  in  default 
was  6d.  This  order  was  confirmed  in  October,  1689,  and  again  ill 
1694- 

la  May,  1646,  the  assembly  directed  its  attention  to  dcfaulttnfC 
individuals,  particularly  10  the  publicans.  It  was  ordered  that  all 
muck  hills,  rubbish,  dung,  or  other  Tilth  in  the  streets,  or  lanes,  oi 
open  grounds  was  to  be  cleared  away  within  a  week  by  the 
innkeeper,  alehouse  keeper,  or  other  person  against  whose  houtics, 
tatids.  or  dwellings  such  muck  hills,  etc.,  lie  under  pain  of  20»., 
and  that  henceforth  any  innkeeper,  or  alehouse  keeper,  or  other 
person  depositing  any  kind  oF  61th  or  mbbijih  in  the  streets,  etc, 
shall  be  subject  to  a  like  penalty. 

In  July  (d  the  same  year  a  further  order  was  made  for  the 
removal  within  a  week,  under  a  penalty  of  308.,  of  any  blocks  IpSQ 
npon  any  street  which  is  to  be  pared  by  Act  of  Parliament,  that 
is  any  <if  the  high  streets-  Tliis  order  hardly  seems  to  reive  lo 
loose  pieces  of  timber  or  wood,  but  rather  to  heavy  blodcs  placed  I 


PUBLIC    HEALTH. 


269 


by  shops  and  houses  for  the  convenience  of  horsemen  and  womeD, 
or  oocasiotutlly  for  trade  purposes. 

It  was  reported  to  the  October  assembly  of  this  year  that 
several  had  refused  to  pay  the  scavenger  cess  of  j£40,  and  order 
was  made  for  distress  to  be  levied  on  their  goods. 

In  164.7  ^'^  ***y  ^Of  ^^'^^  householder  to  clean  and  sweep  the 
streets  before  his  house  and  grounds  and  to  remove  all  tilth,  rubbi<ih, 
or  rammel  was  changed  from  Monday  to  Friday,  so  that  all  shoitid 
be  clean  before  the  chief  market  day. 

An  order  of  the  assembly  of  1652  provides  that — 

Whereas  divcrye  Countrie  p««ple  Ihat  bring-  corne  to  the  markets  to  sell  hvn 
doe  rcfnsF  to  pAf  the  accnstomacl  due  10  the  Cryer  and  Sexton  which  is  railed 
Skavage  due.  It  1*  ordered  ih<it  there  «b)itbc  .1  protecution  In  suite  o(  some  of  ihctn 
that  Refute  ta  |U]r  ih«  same,  u  Couneell  shalbe  advised  >i  the  Chamber  chttgr. 

The  phrase  "scavage  due"  is  of  interest  in  reminding  us  of 
the  curious  origin  of  the  word  scavenger.  Scavagi'um,  in  its  various 
Englished  forms  of  shewage,  schcauwing,  and  scavage,  is  deduced 
by  the  best  philologists  from  the  Anglo-Saxon  word  Sceawe,  a 
^Qw.  The  shcwage  or  scavage  was  originally  a  duty  paid  on  the 
inspection  o(  customable  goods  brought  for  sale  within  towns  or 
cities,  as  is  obvious  from  the  section  "  Dc  Scawanga "  of  llie 
Liber  Alius  of  the  city  of  London.  The  scavengers,  then,  were 
originally  the  inspectors,  to  whom  the  goods  were  actually  shown, 
and  afterwards  the  inspection  of  the  streets  was  committed  to  the 
same  officers.  The  labourers,  by  whom  the  cleansing  of  the  streets 
was  actually  done,  were  usually  called,  in  earlier  days,  raiycrs,  or 
rakers.  This  reminds  us  of  "the  man  with  the  muck>rattc,"  of 
Bunyan  celebrity. 

The  assembly  kept  a  fair  ]<>ok  out  upon  street  encroachments. 
In  1657  they  ordered  that  the  bouse  of  Mr.  John  Twigden  (an 
alderman),  then  building,  be  made  equal  with  Mrs.  Bott's  house, 
adjoining  on  the  east,  that  the  same  come  no  further  out  towards 
the  churchyard,  that  the  new  building  do  not  overshadow  Mrs. 
Bott's  old  house,  and  that  it  be  built  according  to  the  old  foundations 
every  way. 

Boone,  the  town  pinner,  received  orders  from  the  assembly  on 
June  iand,  1674,  to  pull  down  the  wall  built  before  Mr,  Lovell's 
door  in  Abington  street,  unless  Mr.  Lovell  himself  removed  it 
within  ten  days. 

In  1684  the  assembly  ordered  the    "Pent  howse"    (porch)  and 


370 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


other  encroachments  built  upon  the  north-east  wall  of  All  Saints' 
churchyani  to  be  forthwith  pulled  down  at  the  chamber's  charge 
as  a  common  nuisance. 

In  1735  Mr,  Knijjhtley  Dawes  obtained  the  sanction  of  the 
assembly  to  place  iron  pales  in  front  of  his  house,  on  the  west 
gide  of  Bridge  street,  eleven  inches  further  into  the  street  than  the 
old  decayed  wooden  pales.  He  stated  in  hi»  petition  that  the 
street  was  very  wide  in  that  part,  &o  that  after  the  eleven  inches 
of  ground  had  been  taken  in  there  would  be  room  for  the  passage 
abreast  of  four  coaches,  carriages,  or  waggons.  Five  shillings  was 
paid  to  the  town  to  complete  the  bargain. 

The  day  of  the  town  cleansing  was  again  changed  in  1670,  when 
it  was  enacted  that  every  householder  in  the  Drapery  should  clean  the 
pavement  before  his  house  every  Saturday  night,  and  should  cause 
the  dirt  to  be  carried  away  on  the  following  Monday,  and  all  other 
inhabitants  of  the  town  were  to  clean  thetr  pavements  and  carry 
away  the  dirt  every  Monday,  under  a  pain  of  I2d. 

In  November,  1728.  in  accordance  with  the  statute  of  2nd  George 
I.,  the  justices  of  Northampton  appointed  John  Woolston  and 
Joseph  Daniel  scavengers  for  cleansing  of  the  streets.  They  accepted 
the  office,  provided  new  carts  for  the  work,  and  employed  one 
Wrigtit,  who  kept  a  team  of  horses,  to  go  constantly  about  the 
streets  with  a  cart  and  horses  to  remove  the  dirt.  Tlic  town  crier 
gave  notice  to  the  inhabitants  when  to  expect  the  scavenger's  cart. 
In  about  a  year  Wright  continued  to  go  about  the  streets  with  cart 
and  horses,  though  hindered  by  frost  and  snow,  and  somewhat 
irregular  when  his  horses  were  wanted  cIscwKere.  At  the  close  of 
a  year  he  brought  in  a  bill  for  ^£^40  for  work  done  at  (2d.  per 
day  for  each  horse,  and  the  like  for  each  man.  The  providing 
carts,  etc.,  brought  up  tlie  expenses  to  about  £(10,  and  on  December 
l6tb,  1729,  an  a&scssmcnt  was  made  by  the  justices  of  3d.  in  the 
pound  to  co%-cr  it.  Very  few  persons,  however,  paid  it ;  some  who 
lived  "in  back  Unes  and  out  parts  of  the  Town  which  arc  not 
pitched  say  that  their  dirt  was  never  fetched  away ; "  others  occu- 
pying only  lands  or  inclosures  said  that  they  had  no  dirt  to  be 
removed ;  others  "out  of  stubbornness  carryed  away  their  own  Dirt 
to  their  Dunghills  or  backsides  and  would  not  let  the  cart  take  it 
up  i  others  asserted  that  orders  of  the  assembly  already  provided 
(or  street  cleansing,  and  that  the  act  did  not  apply  to  Northampton," 
etc>    Among  the  miscellaneous  documents  is  an  elaborate  "caae," 


PUBLIC    HEALTH.  27I 

frith  Dine  queries,  prepared  for  coudscI's  opinion,  as  to  the  legality 
:rf  the  assessment  and  means  of  enforcing  it,  but  the  opinions  have 
not  been  filled  in. 

Id  1745  the  assembly  gave  leave  to  the  inhabitants  and  occupiers 
rf  houses  at  the  bottom  of  the  Market  hill  and  in  Mercers'  row, 
"  between  the  yards  of  which  houses  there  is  a  long  narrow  lane 
:a]ted  the  Gutts,"  to  fix  a  gate  or  door  at  each  end  of  the  lane  at 
their  own  expanse,  to  prevent  persons  depositing  filth  there  in  the 
light  time ;  the  gates  to  be  locked  in  the  evening  so  soon  as  the 
daylight  is  gone,  and  to  remain  shut  tilt  6  a.m.  in  the  summer, 
ind  7  a.m.  in  the  winter.  This  passage  still  bears  the  same 
euphonious  name. 


section  seven. 
The  Town  Trades. 

The    prevalbnt  tiiadbs    of    the    towk — Trai^b    guilds     in     Northampton — 

AmALGAUATBD  trades'  constitution  op  1574 — TRB  BAKBRS — DiFFEREKT  KINDS 
OF  BRBAD,  and  H0RSB-BR8AD— The  BUTCKBR3 — DISPUTE  A3  TO  THE  BUTCHERS' 
STALLS — The     chandlers  —  FiSRHONQERS     AND     FISHINQ  —  THE      FULLERS  —  ThE 

GLOVERS — The  hosiers — The  Ironkonqsrs— Thk  uercers— Millers  and  mills 
— The  shoeuakers — Shoes  for  the  army  in  164a — The  tailors  and  woollen* 

DRAPERS — WniTTAWERS    AND    TANNERS — InnHOLDERS,  BRBWBKS,  AND    MALTSTERS — 

List  of  inns  and  alehouses— Bene  factions  for  poor  tradesmen. 


THE   TOWN  TRADES. 


275 


THE    TOWN    TRADES. 


V- 


N  the  long  and  highly  interesting  regal  inquisition  of  1275,  as 
to  the  town  of  Northampton,  incldenta)  mention  is  made  of 
the  tanners,  glovers,  weavers,  fullers,  dyers,  drapers,  and  braziers. 
Only  those  who  had  some  complaint  to  make,  or  were  themselves 
offenders  against  public  rights,  are  mentioned  in  this  inquisition, 
90  that  it  is  doubtless  accidental  that  shoemakers  were  not  named. 

The  general  trade  of  the  town  from  the  earliest  known  days 
seems  to  have  been  chiefly  in  connection  with  leather,  so  that 
tanners,  whitawcrs,  curriers,  fellmongcrs,  shoemakers,  glovers, 
point-makers,  paKh me nt- makers,  saddlers,  and  harness-makers,  arc 
constantly  met  with;  but  of  one  special  leather  industry  we  can 
find  no  trace  in  connection  with  Northampton,  namely,  the  botclcrs, 
or  makers  of  leather  bottlc»  or  jacks.  Nevertheless,  as  leather 
buckets  were  made  on  a  large  scale  in  the  town  in  filizabethan 
days,  it  is  possible  that  the  same  craftsmen  may  have  turned  out 
e  bottles  of  leather. 

Dyeing,  as  has  been  already  remarked  in  the  last  section  under 
Scarlet  well,  was  another  early  and  important  industry  of  North- 
ampton The  town  was  also  an  important  centre  of  the  wool 
trade,  as  has  bren  shown  by  its  possession  of  a  seal  or  stamp  for 
the  royal  subsidy  on  wool.  .\s  early  as  the  time  of  Edward  I. 
Northampton  possessed  a  wool  hall,  of  which  occasional  mention 
has  been  found  from  that  reign  to  the  time  of  Elizabeth. 
This  hall  was  at  the  market  square  end  of  Abington  street,  on  the 
opposite  side  to  St.  George's  hall. 

It  IS  no  small  temptation  to  branch  off  into  a  brief  dissertation 

the  gradual  growth  of  craft-guilds  or  trade  societies,  and  the 
highly  important  bearing  they  had  on  municipal  and  even  national 
:c.  But  the  temptation  must  be  resisted  ;  sufhce  it  here  to  say 
at  the  ancient  guild  of  our  towns  was  a  fraternity  of  the  whole 
trade  of  all  ranks  and  classes,  employers  and  wage  earners  alike, 
compulsorily  bound  together  against  all  outsiders  who  might  try 
to  infringe  upon  their  privileges.  The  molive.t  which  thus  drew 
men  together  into  these  craft-guilds  were  practically  everjT^-here 
the  same,  namely,  the  desire  to  obtain  monopoly  and  control  of  their 
particular  trade  in  their  own  locality. 

T  2 


376 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RGCORDS. 


A  fairly  healthy  commonalty,  such  as  Northampton   (or  a  lo: 
time  wa^,  did   not  suffer    hself  (as  is  remarked  elsewhere  in  coi 
sidcring  the  freemen)  to  be  overawed  b)*  great  trade  confratcrniti 
but    insisted    throujiliout     in     rcgulatinfj    and     restraining    if    n 
in  initiating  the  bye-laws  of  the  particular  crafts.     Towns  such 
Northampton  soon  saw  the  advantage  of  these  associations  icom  a, 
public  point  of  view,  for  the  various  fines  tlicy  exacted  from  thci: 
members    for    many  offences    not  recognised    by    statute    law 
general  local  bye-laws  were  made  contributory  to  the  public  pu 
Draft  rules  once  entered  on  the  town  records  became  an  admitt 
part  of  the  municipal  constitution,  and   the  corporation   of    North' 
amptun  took  good  care  that,  as  a  rule,  one    half   of   the  penalties 
went  to  the  common  purse  of  the  town. 

Doubtles<(,  too,    Nortlianiplon    saw  in  them    another  advanta 
namely,  the  securing  the  good  and  orderly  behaviour  of  the  great 
part  of  the  townsmen  through  the  otticials  of  the  crafts,  who  we 
in  no  sense  paid  by  the  commonalty  at  large. 

At  the  end  of  the    fifteenth    century   not   a   few    towns  wh 
crafts  had  not  alre:idy  organi.sed  themselves,  were  almost  compelled 
by  the  commonalty  to  do  so.    The  action  tliat  the  corporation 
Northampton    took    in     [44^  {L(l>fr    Curttiniarum)  in   forming   the 
company  of  the  tailors  is  just  an  example    in  point.     The  Liber 
Custumarum  also  proves  that   the   bakers,  butchers,  fishniong. 
shoemakers,    glovers,    fullers,    tanners   and    whitawers,    chandle: 
weavers,  drapers,  etc.,  were  all  organised. 

In  connection  with  that  part  of  the  borough  records  which  th: 
volume  touches,  it  may  be  remarked  that  Northampton  maintain 
its  f.iith  in  these  trade  organisations  to  such  an  extent  as  to  gr 
in  some   instances,  new   or  revised  constitutions   so  late 
reign  of  Charles  I. 

Before  proceeding  to  comment  on  distinctive  trades,  it  will  be  bs 
well  to  give  the  regulations  adopted  by  the  town  in  1574  for  con- 
trolling no  fewer  than  nine  different  trades  or  occupations,  which 
would  certainly  seem  at  first  sight  to  have  but  little  in  common.  ^H 
is  conjectured  that  at  this  date  none  of  these  trades  had  form^^ 
constitutions  of  their  own,  or  else  Uial  their  constitutions  were  ia 
abeyance : — 

Orders  anil  conitittttioni  in.iile  in  the  time  of  the  maiorallio  sf  Henry  Cbrke 
«f   ilic  Cownc  «f    Northiiinpton  fat   and   concerning   the    occupalions    of 
babber1I.11  hers,   l^nnendnpcrs,    grooert,  apoihaorits,   vpholften,    sa]ten,   ttyen 


THE    TOWN    TRADES. 


377 


honjrc  and  mxa  wilhia  the  naide  rownc  d  Konhampion  and  conftrmed  «  an 
am«rnb1i«  holdtn  by  th«  laide  maioi  his  brathcren  and  th«  c4inburge«ie«  of  ttt* 
aniB  town«-  Trith  ihc  xlviij**  of  ihe  co<nmliulti«  of  the  Mitir  towne  at  the  eutldbHl) 
at  the  Mid*  too-nc  the  thirtith  day  of  August  in  the  SiatenUi  yn»ie  o(  ihc  raico 
of  out  Sorei&iga  ladie  HIix.iliMh  b^  tho  gnea  of  god  of  Knglnnd  Fraunce  and 
nd  quccnc  defender  of  thi:  Faith  etc. 

hcse  orders  may  be  this  t^itomiscd  : — That  on  the  twenty-first 
October,  or  within  six  days  afler,  the  freemen  of  the  aforesaid 
occupations  or  crafts  should  lawfully  meet  at  St.  Katharine's  hall 
"  without  any  confederacic  conspiracic  mutincc  or  tumultc  "  ;  that 
they  should  then  elect  from  among  their  Dumber  a  master  and  two 
wardens  for  the  current  year  :  that  any  one  refusing  to  accept  these 
offices  should  pay  a  fine  of  twenty  shillings;  that  no  foreigner  nor 
unfranchised  man  should  hereafter  sell  or  offer  for  sale  within  the 
town  any  manner  of  wares  or  merchandise  belonging  to  tlie  above 

Icraits,  save  during  the  fairs  of  St.  Hugh  and  St.  Gt»rgc.  under  a 
pain  of  twenty  shillings ;  that  no  foreign  chapman  or  unfranchised 
person  shall  sell  within  the  town  "  anic  drinckingc  glasses  or 
■woollen  cardes,  under  a  pain  of  6s.  8d.  "  ;  that  no  persons  whatsoever 
not  being  free  of  thi-  said  town  should  sell  any  kind  of  merchandise 
or  wares  belonging  to  the  above  trades  within  the  towne  to  any 
foreigner  or  unfranchised  person,  under  pain  of  forfeiture  of  the 
wares  so  bought  and  sold :  that  no  freeman  of  these  crafts  should 
take  any  apprentice  or  covenanted  servant  to  the  trades  under 
eight     years'     service,    under    a    pain     of    five     marks ;     that    the 

h master  or  dame  of  any  such  apprentice  or  servant  should  within 
the  year  enrol  the  apprenticeship  in  the  town  records,  under  a  pain 
of  ten  shillings  ;  that  any  apprentice  or  covenanted  servant  once 
bound  and  Aetting  up  for  themselves  before  the  years  of  service 
were  ended  should  pay  a  fine  of  twenty  shillings  ;  that  every 
apprentice  or  covenanted  servant  who  had  served  the  eight  years 
should  pay  on  hia  being  made  a  freeman  two  sliillings  to  the  trade  : 
that  every  person  of  thi.-se  trades  buying  his  freedom  should  pay 

CP3S.  4d.  i  that  no  freeman  of  these  trades  should  teach  anyone,  $ave 
his  apprentice  or  his  covenanted  servant,  bis  craftc  or  trade  under 
a  pain  of  ten  pounds;  that  no  freeman  having  any  shop  or  house 
f  within  the  precincts  of  the  draperie  or  checker  of  the  saide 
towne  called  the  Fourc  comers  of  the  draperie  and  checker  should 
,8et  up  any  »tall  or  standing  within  the  market  place,  under  pain  of 
OB." ;  that  every  freeman  or  freewoman  having  no  shop  or  house 
within  these  precincts  may  set  up  a  stall  upon  market  days  and  the 


278 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


fair  days  called  "  Ladie  Daies,"  "and  also  two  Seymsters  wUh 
made  wairc  of  Seymsters  trade  habberdashe  ware  ajid  groccrie  ** ; 
thai  the  wardens  of  these  trades,  by  their  beadle,  shall  twice  in  the 
yeare  cause  the  freemen  of  their  trades  to  assemble  in  St.  Katharine's 
hall  to  hear  their  orders  and  constitutions  read,  under  pain  of 
69.  fid. ;  that  they  shall  not  meet  oftcncr  in  the  year  without  the 
mayor's  licence ;  that  the  master  and  wardens  have  power  to  levy 
assessment  or  yearly  tax  on  the  freemen  of  their  occupations  of 
forty  shillings,  under  a  pain  to  the  defaulter  of  ten  shillings;  that 
any  one  of  the  trades  misusing  or  uttering  evil  language  to  the 
master  or  wardens  should  forfeit  2od.,  and  for  behaving  in  the 
same  manner  to  their  beadle  should  forfeit  twelve  pence  ;  that  these 
trades  should  make  an  annual  payment  of  forty  shillings  to  the 
corporation,  under  a  pain  of  five  marks. 

The  trades  now  dealt  with  arc  exclusively  Ihoae  of  which  there 
is  definite  mention  In  the  later  records  of  Northampton.  They 
arc  mentioned  alphabetically,  and  not  in  accordance  with  supposed 
or  real  importance. 


TiiG  Bakers. 

On  one  of  the  first  pages  of  the  first  book    of  the  assembly  Is 
the  following:— 

Order  for  ihc  Bokcn  tempon  GwtTg'i't  Coldwall  Maioru  Anno  primo  Marie 
Kcgitw  Kanimnche  a*  tha  nombtr  of  Bakers  be  encnaxyi  la  the  towoe  of 
Karthlon  and  that  ihey  do  take  upon  them  to  fine  atn'cll  the  contrey  ks  the  toarnc 
w"  sll  kynd  of  Bred  by  Reason  wbtrcof!  thejr  for  the  finynf  of  iheir  CuKOtiMn  l/i 
th«  contny  do  lyv  fore  upon  Ihe  market  in  The  luwne.  And  do  bju  enry  marbt 
daj  giM.t  nomtwr  of  Kiayne  to  their  own  great  lucre  and  advaniBce  and  to  the 
Riysyng  of  the  price  of  ^yne  and  to  th«  Jin:^  spoyie  of  fewell  and  cnhawnsyng 
of  the  price  ihetcof  whiche  It  sgeliist  the  Cominon»«ithe.  jind  of  tew  yires  pwt 
newlye  invented  by  the  w6e  Baken:  For  Reform  nlicrn  u-h«r«olT  j-l  ys  affr«cd  bjr 
the  Mayor  and  his  Breihern.  that  10  long  ai  whele  xhalbe  ahovv  vl*  vKi'  a  qiurter 
and  under  xii'  *  quarter  that  no  manner  oE  Baken  of  ihLi  lownc  shall  Cwnvey  otn 
o9  iho  towns  by  cnft  or  coliuiyon  nbove  the  ivayie  of  two  honse  loAd  upon  payna 
of  (otSaytiTix  x'  at  every  tymc  that  nay  of  them  shall  so  offend  to  Ihe  dm  of  the 
chamber  of  the  towne  And  wli«n  that  the  quarter  of  Trhent  ahtlbe  xii'  and  above 
xii'  then  no  b.iker  ahall  convey  out  of  the  lowue  above  o-m  home  lode,  nor  mart 
lode,  nor  no  mani  bode,  not  by  eny  other  cr^ft  or  colluiyon  upon  pays  10  forfeit 
to  the  Chamber  x'  for  every  time  to  offcrdinj;  And  if  the  Mavor  fo«  the  tyme 
beyof  do  not  endeavour  bimsellT  to  levye  theie  s.inie  without  favor  then  be  ihiU 
forffeit  mid  pay  For  hi*  ne^ligenro  to  the  chamber  of  the  towne  x>  for  evvry  time 
that  he  shall  amyt  the  same  after  due  pisctlce  thereof  had  and  kaowen. 


THB  TOWN    TRADES. 


a?9 


In  the  margin  by  the  side  of  this  order   is  written  in  a  later 
id  Vacat,  implying  that  the  order  was  dischai^d.     A  marginal 
'note  also  records  that  in  1570    "this  order  for  the  bakers  was  set 
att  libcrtic  to  go  and  carry  bred  at  all  times  with  ij  horsys." 
H       It  1605  it  was  ordered 

^B  That  all  Dakera  tli>c  make  bake  uttsi  and  i«ll  hMlf«pennie  whit*  bread,  ytay  wUu 
^Pkmd,  h:iUe  peny  wtieaton,  peoy  whcalon  briMtl.  ^^tty  houneholdc  and  two«  peny 
^p&ovMbold«  Imvoi,  and  none  of  [rvatet  asaiic,  and  ih.it  noe  baker  or  other  pacvon 
doe  make,  bakg.  iitt«t,  and  mW  nnit  other  kynde  cr  9ort«s  of  bread,  then  tyRinol 
bread,  irasCcll  irhltc  H-hcaion  buuichcldc,  and  horMbrc^ds,  and  that  cverle  bakcf 
and  other  person  that  doe  or  ahall  Riak«  bake  utter  and  sell  anic  k]rne  or  •ort«t 
of  bread  .-iforenid,  thM  they  keep  the  assize  thermil  at  all  times  and  (ron  time  to 
time  (hdt  sh&lbe  flvcn  dicm  bj  Mr.  M^yui  upon  palna  id  lliai  behAlCe  provided 
and  iRipritonment. 

The  baker's  loa(  «-as  changed  in  weight,  not  in  price,  according 
I  to  the  price  of  grain.  In  earlier  days  than  this,  the  assize  of  bread 
Boaly  recognised  three  kinds,  namely :  Wastel,  or  white,  well-baked 
bread  ;  coket,  or  seconds ;  and  simnci,  or  twice  baked  bread,  used  for 
the  most  part  only  in  Lent.  Horsebrcad  was  the  common  food  for 
stall-fed  horses  at  this  period.  It  was  baked  in  very  lai^c  loaves, 
and  differed  materially  in  Its  composition,  usually  consisting  of 
different  proportions  of  oats,  r)X,  and  pease. 

The  folloH'ing  entry  occurs  among  the  orders  of  1617: — 

^f  Whereas  the  tradeimen  nnd  rompany  of  the  balterx  fremeo  exhibiting  within 
this  corporation  have  in;ide  Kreot  complainte  lo  this  aMcmblj  of  mat}'  i^icvance* 
and  damages  which  doe  daylie  arise  and  grnwa  to  Iham  by  reaton  of  the  continuall 
Concourse  of  foncin  bakers  into  thb  liberty  upon  markctt  daiex  and  other  dales 
vrtth  divers  iMte  of  bread  And  foreasmuch  as  the  talda  tradesmen  and  company  of 
faaken  frvemen  aod  inhnbitants  aforculdc  pay  scot t  and  lott  within  ibis  corporation 
lUid  an  at  continual  char|>e  and  burthen  about  the  neceitary  afhires  of  this  Cor< 
poralion,  which  the  laid  forrein  baiters  are  not  nor  cannot  be  compelled  ualo  and 
yet  take  bcno5tt  of  the  cnarkcCi  within  this  Corporation,  and  for  that  the  unccnaine 
comeing  and  sate  of  bread  of  forrein  bnkers  bathe  bene  an  oocaiion  of  the  not 
weighinj;  of  their  brad:  It  i»  now  th-crcfure  for  the  heller  wele  of  tha  Bakon 
freemen  and  inhabitants  uf  lh«  said  town  and  liberty  and  to  the  inlcnl  that  ikt 
bread  of  the  fomin  bakert  may  be  openly  weighed  that  ihaitic  brought  to  the 
nuukctts  of  this  Corporation  and  a  cctiaino  time  may  be  preliacd  to  them  for  that 
purpose  ordered  by  the  Nfjyor  aldermen  and  assemblle  now  prvwni  that  everie 
foneJa  or  rounlric  baker  that  shall  bring  any  sonc  of  bread  10  kU  wiihin  this 
Corporatiotu  tlbertie  upon  any  market  day  or  faire  day  shall  not  putt  the  same 
his  breades  or  any  of  them  to  sale  but  in  the  open  markett  and  in  the  open 
maiket  ondie  not  until  Ihe  houne  of  Tonne  of  the  clock  in  the  morning  upon 
paine  of  avarie  forrein  or  coiintria  baker  comitting  or  doeing  lo  the  breach  of  this 


28o 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


ordiiMncc  herein  eatablishvd  thM  tb«  laid  iarc«in  or  counlilc  bakcre  bringing  any 
tmtt  ct  bread  to  bo  sold  ai  bU  or  their  breade  or  anjr  ot  Ihvm  iben  one  of  the 
clockc  in  itie  afiernnone  upon  any  morkctt  day  oc  fairc  day  and  at  one  of  Ih* 
clock  in  the  iflerno&n*  of  avarie  faire  daf  snd  mar!e*t  day  ewerie  one  of  the  uid 
Countrie  baken  lo  be  xone  lioaiewanta  with  his  btuds  thai  he  sball  not  have  >old 
Up9a  like  paine  of  forfeittiie  of  x*  to  be  Eorfeiled  (o  tha  corporation  upoa  evecie 
breach  of  Ihi*  order  jl«>  in  ev*tie  ntpecxm  All  the  uid  forfriiaret  to  be  leried  )*f 
itlatn*  of  evctic  offeadcri  g9o4t  b;  wamnt  from  the  mayor  ol  this  cor]>oralroB 
directed  to  any  officer  which  he  siaU  appoint  under  the  Malle  of  his  oAWe. 

The  Butchers. 

The  constitutions  and  ordera  regulating  tlie  company  of  butchers 
of  Northampton  were  renewed  and  rcviiicd  at  an  assembly  held  on 
December  loth,  1558.  The  follovring  is  an  epitome  of  the  intercd* 
liug  provisions  then  promulgated  : — 

That  on  Martinmas  day  or  the  Tuesday  next  after,  the  occupiers 
of  this  trade  shall  yearly  assemble  at  St.  Katharine's  hall,  and  elect 
two  of  their  number  as  masters,  and  two  as  wardens  to  rule  and 
keep  the  members  in  good  order  and  to  amend  all  manner  of  mis- 
behaviour, defaults,  abuses,  and  deceits,  and  that  any  one  thus 
elected  and  refusing  to  act  shall  forfeit  20s.  to  the  chamber. 

That  the  master  and  wardens  have  full  power  to  levy  fines, 
and  shall  retain  the  same  until  Martinma.>>,  when  they  shall  band 
over  the  sum  of  the  fines  of  the  yt^r  to  their  successors,  under 
pain  of  40s. 

That  the  wardens  shall  twice  or  oftencr  in  the  year  view  and 
oversee  the  company  of  butchers  for  any  misderaeanouc  in  their 
occupation,  and  if  there  be  any  default  shall  fine  the  offender 
(with  the  consent  of  the  master}  at  their  discretion  65.  8d. 

That  all  foreigners  or  strangers  that  may  hereafter  be  made 
free  of  the  town,  and  desire  to  set  up  the  trade  of  a  butcher,  shall 
pay  £10  to  the  town  and  not  under. 

That  if  any  apprentice  set  up  as  a  butcher  and  has  iwt  served 
the  full  number  of  »even  years,  he  shall  be  dismissed  and  sell  ito 
more  on  commandment  of  the  master  and  wardens  under  pain 
oi  £6. 

That  every  apprentice  who  has  served  his  full  time  shall  on  his 
setting  up  pay  to  the  company  los.  in  addition  to  duties  paid  to 
the  mayor  at  the  time  of  his  freedom. 

That  every  freeman's  child  of  the  occupation  bom  in  the  time 
of  his  father's  freedom  shall  pay  at  the  time  of  setting  up  3od.  to 
the  company  and  sod.  to  the  mayor. 


I 


THE   TOWS   TRAhES. 


281 


That  any  roaster  taking  an  apprentice  or  covenanted  servant 
sbaJl  enrol  them  on  the  town  books,  to  the  intent  to  avoid  all 
sinister  dealing  or  collusion,  under  pain  of  los. 

That  any  freeman  of  the  occupation  teaching  the  Lradc  to  any 
one  save  apprentice  or  servant  bound  (or  at  least  seven  years  shall 
forfeit  jt3,  whereof  20s.  is  assigned  10  the  mayor,  205.  to  the 
chamber,  and  20s.  to  the  occupation. 

That  if  any  man  not  a  freeinan  marry  any  woman  of  the  occu- 
pation, and  desire  his  freedom,  he  Rhall  pay  40s.  at  the  time  of 
his  marriage  or  of  setting  up  open  shop,  vh. : — 208.  to  the  mayor, 
and  20s.  to  the  occupation  in  addition  to  freedom  fees. 

That  it  be  lawful  for  the  occupiers  of  this  occupation  (after 
licence  from  the  mayor)  to  assemble  at  St.  Katharine's  hall,  by  order 
of  the  master  and  wardens,  so  often  as  they  think  good,  for  the 
purpose  of  conferring  and  talking  upon  matters  affecting  their  occu- 
pation, but  "using  noe  confederatie,  conventicle,  tumult,  or  anie 
other  misdemeanors." 

That  one  named  the  "  BcedcII  "  shall  summon  them  toassembliesi 
and  ever)'  one  absent  without  accepted  excuse  shall  be  tined  ^a.  Sd. 

That  the  occupation  have  authority  to  make  such  further  orders 
for  tljeir  own  regulation  as  shall  not  be  contrary  to  law,  tliat  siuch 
orders  sliall  be  set  down  in  a  book,  and  that  they  have  power  to 
fine  defaulters  6s.  8d. 

That  any  one  abusing  the  master  or  wardens  shall  be  fined  5s., 
or  abusing  the  beadle  is. 

That  any  of  the  occupation  sueing  another  at  law,  either  on  real 
or  persona!  account,  without  first  having  leave  of  the  master  or 
wardens  ahaH  furfttit  20s. 

That  no  butcher  nor  his  servants  shall  dress  any  kind  of  meat 
within  the  precincts  of  tlie  Butchers'  row,  under  pain  of  izd. 

That  no  butcher  within  the  town  or  in  the  county  shall  "  kyll 
any  morte  beaste  '*  nor  any  other  meat  infected  of  any  disease, 
being  warned  by  the  master  or  wardens,  under  pain  of  20S. 

That  none  of  the  fellowship  call  his  fellow  knave  in  anger,  nor 
speak  any  other  unkind  or  slanderous  words,  under  pain  of  t2d. 

That  no  butcher  of  town  or  county  shall  carry  any  meat  hawking 
to  any  inn,  unless  the  good  man  of  the  house  hath  bought  it,  or 
he  be  bidden  to  bring  (he  same  there,  under  pain  of  6s.  8d. 

That    DO    man   kill    "  noe    pockyt    shrepe,    nor  noe  sowe  that 


282 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RSCOROS. 


gocth  to  Brymmyng,"  to  the  cod  of  selliog  the  samr.  under  pm 
of  33.  6d. 

That  no  man  kill  any  boar  pig  to  lay  upon  the  statls  tnstod 
of  pork,  undrr  pain  of  I2d. 

That  no  butcher  of  the  town  or  county  shall  lay  forth  to  idl 
any  manner  o(  flesh  that  is  not  man's  meat,  after  the  wardens  hare 
condemnecl  it,  under  pain  of  js.  4d. 

That  none  of  the  occupation,  their  wives,  or  servants,  shall  eaO 
any  person  or  persons  that  are  buying  meat  at  any  cither  ttaU 
until  they  be  parted  from  the  said  stall,  under  pain  of  I2d. 

That  none  of  the  occupation,  their  wives,  or  servant*,  shall  adi 
any  manner  of  flesh  in  their  stalls  or  shops  on  the  Sabbath  Oays 
(save  on  such  days  a^  has'c  been  used  and  accustomed  in  the  time 
of  harvests),  under  pain  of  3s.  4d. 

That  none  of  the  occupation  shall  have  any  man's  servast 
without  his  master's  good  will,  under  pain  of  65.  8d. 

That  any  one  of  the  occupation  cmplo^-ing  or  hiring  joumcjiatt 
of  the  occupation  who  has  purloined  his  master's  goods,  to  the 
value  of  4d.  or  more  shall  be  fined  2o3. 

That  no  one  of  the  fellowship  shall  take  any  house  or  shop 
wherein  any  of  his  aeighbours  that  w  of  the  occupation  dwellftb. 
unless  he  first  know  that  be  is  wiUiog  to  depart,  under  paio  of 
3s.  4d. 

That  any  master  or  servant  of  the  occupation  running  away  oat 
of  the  to\™  with  any  other  perwc's  goods,  money,  or  meal,  of  the 
same  occupation,  and  the  same  be  proved,  that  such  oHcnder  fball 
never  again  sell  meat  within  the  town,  under  pain  of  40s. 

That  any  foreigner  or  stranger  coming  to  the  town  to  seD 
flesh  or  meat,  pay  on  the  third  day  after  his  coming  13s.  ^d.,  to 
the  town,  and  on  refusal  that  all  the  flesh  or  meat  be  forfeited. 

That  no  foreigner  or  person  not  free  of  this  occupation  «c)l 
any  meat  within  tlie  town  save  on  the  Saturday,  and  on  the  two 
fairs  of  Saint  George  and  Saint  Hugh,  under  pain  of  6*.  8d. 

That  none  of  the  occupation  nor  iJieir  servants  shall  go  or  rvic 
into  the  country  to  bring  home  any  kind  of  ware  on  the  Sabboftlu 
under  pain  of  6s.  8d. 

Thai  no  innkeeper  of  Ihc  town  shall  kill  at  any  time  in  hil 
house  to  serve  their  guests  any  beef,  mutton,  veal,  or  lamb,  under 
pain  of  6s.  8d. 


THE  TOWM    TRADES. 


283 


l< 

I 
I 

I 


That  no  one  shall  kill  any  pork  after  May  isl  unlil  St.  Deanis' 
ly,  under  pain  of  6s.  8d. 

Tliat  no  one  shall    kill    any  ene's  flesh  to  sell  after    December 
Sth,  being  the  Lady  day  before  Christmas,  till    Easter  Day,  under 
kin  of  39.  4d. 

That  no  one  shall  buy  any  portable  ware  of  any  foreigner  to  be 
[illed  within  the  town,  under  pain  of  6s.  ^ 

That  no  one  shall  set  any   other  man's   wife  or  servant  of  the 
same  occupation  to  sell    his  meat  in  shop  or  stall,  under   pain  of 
"S».  8d. 

That  no  butcher's  wife  keeping  any  stall  or  shop  in  Butchers' 
TOW  "shall  fall  out  with  anie  other  bochcr's  wyfc  nor  use  nor 
speake  aoic  evill  or  slaundernus  wordcs  of  dcPTamation  or  other- 
wyse  revaile  or  revile  one  another  uppon  payne  that  ever>"C  woman 
therein  first  beginning  the  quarrel!  the  husbarde  of  the  wife  to 
forfeite  for  every  tyme  that  his  wyfc  shall  therein  offcnde  being 
lawfully  proved  who  was  the  begj-nner  thereof  three  shillings  and 
burcpcncc.'' 

In  1561  it  was  ordered  that  no  butcher's  wife  should  come  into 
Butcher's  row  to  sell  any  meal  save  on  market  and  fair  days, 
under  pain  of  6s.  8d. ;  "provided  it  shalbe  lawfull  for  every  man's 
wife  lo  come  to  oversee  thcr  servants  that  they  do  ther  duties, 
and  to  take  the  mony  off  the  fleslie  so  solde  by  ther  servant." 

The  following  order  was  made  on  March  12th.  1568:  — 

"  It  is  condicendide  and  aj^rced  that  no  straunge  botcher  shall 
stonde  longer  in  the  market  called  the  Kytstailcs*  then  three  of 
the  Clocke  in  the  winter  and  fowrc  of  the  clockc  in  somcr  accor> 
dinge  to  the  olde  Order."  In  the  following  October  this  order  as 
,to  foreign  butchers  was  recited  with  the  addition  "  that  the  said 
butchers  sliall  standc  and  sell  their  meat  or  fleashe  in  the  open 
market  called  the  Kitstalles  every  market  or  faire  daies  at  ther 
will  and  pleasures,  paying  j-erely  at  the  feast  of  St.  MichcII 
tbarchangell  for  ther  saide  liberties  and  liberties  and  fredome  to 
the  use  of  the  chamber  xxxvj*  viij*." 

By  an  order  of  1593  the  duties  levied  on  foreign  butchers  were 
still  further  increased,  for  it  was  tlien  enjoined  that,  in  addition  to 


■Kyntalkt.  or  ktMsllst,  w  a  attne  dttivtd  tteta  ku  or  cut.  tai  *iiallir>  th«  M>>U  far  Jolub 
cr  cut-up  butchn'a  meal. 


284 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


the  rental  to  the  coqwration  of  26s.  8d.,  each  foreign  butcher  on 
first  entering  the  town  to  sell  meat  should  pay  6s.  8d.  to  the 
chamber,  and  6s.  Bd.  to  the  wardens  of  the  butchers'  company. 

At  the  meeting  of  the  assembly  on  August  ijlh,  [637,  a  com- 
mittee, consisting  of  the  mayor  elect  and  ten  others,  was  appointed 
to  consider  the.  application  of  the  company  of  butchers  to  have  a 
new  constitution  according  to  ancient  usage,  inasmuch  as  the  old 
one  had  fallen  into  abeyance.  It  was  ordered  that  the  draft 
constitution,  which  had  been  prepared  for  the  butchers  by  council, 
should  be  submitted  to  the  committee  in  order  that  inconvenient 
clauses  mif(ht  be  struck  out  or  amended.  The  committee  was  to 
report  to  the  next  assembly,  but  the  order  books  contain  no 
further  alhjsion  at  thi.s  period  to  a  butchers'  constitution. 

The  great  lire  completely  destroyed  Butchers'  row,  or  the 
Shambles,  On  October  5th,  1676,  it  was  ordered  "  (hat  the  Butchers 
stalls  upon  the  Markett  hill  be  sctlcd  by  the  present  Bayliffs  and 
regulated  as  before  the  fire,  and  sett  out  by  a  ccrtaine  measure 
reduced  to  7  foot  and  halfe." 

In  1730  it  was  represented  to  the  assembly  that  the  right  of 
the  corporation  to  the  soil  or  ground  whereon  the  butchers  set 
stalls  or  sheds  (or  the  weekly  exposure  of  their  meat  for  sale  on 
market  days,  kno\i'nbythc  name  of  Butchers'  hill,  was  questioned, 
and  even  denied,  by  all  or  most  of  the  freemen  butchers.  The 
assembly,  therefore,  formally  stated  that  they  had  never  granted  to 
the  butchers,  whether  freemen  or  foreigners,  any  legal  right  or 
title  whatsoever  to  the  soil ;  that  these  pretensions  of  the  butchers 
were  never  set  up,  or  even  heard  of,  until  very  recently :  and  that 
such  claims  might  prove  very  prejudicial  to  the  corporation,  as 
they  have  been  lords  of  the  manor  by  charter  from  time 
innnemorial.  The  assembly  further  ordered  that  the  town  clerk 
should  in  their  name  make  an  entry  upon  such  soil  or  ground 
as  the  butchers  claim,  and  discharge  the  person  or  persons 
pretending  a  right  thereto  from  erecting  any  stall  or  shed  in 
the  future  at  their  peril ;  that  if  the  person  cr  persons  so  dis- 
charged should  presume  to  erect  a  stall  that  action  should  he 
forthwith  brought  against  the  offender,  in  order  to  assert  the  rights 
of  the  corporation  ;  and  if  any  butcher  whose  stall  should  be  thrown 
down  should  be  the  first  to  bring  an  action,  that  then  the  cor- 
poration would  strenuously  defend  it,  so  that  the  issue  should  be 


I 

I 


THE   TOWN  TRADES. 


285 


Sttleii.  whether  it  was  the  fortune  of  the  corporation  to  be  plaintiff 
'  defendant. 

The  next  entry  relati%'e  to  this  dispute  occurs  under  date 
)ctober  jtix,  1731,  when  it  was  ordered  that  it  be  left  to  the 
layor  to  caJI  an  assembly  in  the  following  month  "  to  receive 
petitions  from  the  butchers  for  leases  of  the  stall  grounds  to  which 
ihey  claim  or  pretend  a.  title,  and  have  the  same  read  if  any  such 
shall  be  entered  or  presented,  befort-  any  fresh  buit  be  <!omnienced 
against  the  butchers,  and  tliat  publick  notice  in  the  mean  lime  be 
given  to  all  the  butchers  of  the  day  when  the  assembly  will  be  held/' 
On  November  llth,  1731,  the  petition  of  John  Law,  butcher, 
and  of  the  widow  of  John  Stanyan,  for  life  leases  o£  their  respective 
stall  grounds  00  the  Market  hill,  were  read,  and  it  was  ordered 
that  the  corporation  seal  to  such  leases  be  respited  until  the 
matter  in  dispute  between  the  corporation  and  the  butchers  be 
decided,  and  that  John  Law  (against  whom  the  corporation  lately 
obtained  judgment  in  an  action  for  trespass)  be  permitted  to  stand 
on  the  market  day  with  a  stall  without  any  interruption  and  with- 
out paying  any  rent  or  acknowledgment  until  further  orders. 

I  The  same  assembly  ordered  the  town  clerk  to  make  an  entry 
upon  the  stall  ground  occupied  by  Thomas  Cooper,  Thomas 
Gooding,  and  Menr)*  Stanyaji,  all  freemen  butchers. 
The  corporation  evidently  won  the  day,  for  in  1735  we  find 
them  making  an  order  with  regard  to  the  quarterly  payments  and 
i other  prolits  arising  from  the  butchers'  stalls  on  the  Market  hill 
at  (airs  and  markets.  In  1739  a  life  lease  was  granted  of  stall 
ground  to  Richard  Lucas,  butcher,  of  Creaton,  measuring  Sft.  by 
6ft.,  for  use  on  market  and  fair  days,  on  payment  to  the  corpora, 
bon  of  a  yearly  rental  of  42s.  The  lessee  was  to  provide  his  own 
stallage  and  stall  gear,  and  to  set  up.  take  down,  and  carry  away 
the  same,  the  corporation  covenanting  to  keep  the  ground  in 
^^  proper  repair. 

^H      The  assembly,  on  December   15th,    1746,  passed  certain  orders 

^^against  Richard  Kaston  and  Daniel  Saunders,    butchers    ("known 

^^and  inveterate  enemies  of  this  curpuration,  and  who  acted  as  such 

^nn  the  course  of  the  several   trials    which  this  corporation  have 

^^  lately  had  for  the    recovery   and   establishment    of    their   rights  to 

tlie  piece  of  ground  known  as  Butchers'  Hill   or  Butchers  Row"), 

serving  them  with  notice$  to  quit  the  shops  that  they  respectively 

held  under  the  corporation. 


286 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


A  thin  folio  contains  "the  accompts  of  the  Collector  of  the 
Rents  and  Profits  arising  from  Uie  Butchen  Stalls  erected  weekly 
on  the  Market  Mill  in  the  Town  of  Northampton  in  a  certain  place 
there  called  the  Butchers  Hill  or  Butchers  Kow  b<^inntnf;  at 
Michus  1748." 

For  the  year  1748-9  the  receipts  were  ^^34  18s.  There  were 
thirty-nine  butchers'  stalls  on  the  east  side,  three  at  the  top  oE 
the  stalls,  and  forty-two  on  the  west  side.  There  was  no  charge 
to  the  freemen  butchers,  of  whom  there  were  thirty-three.  In 
176&-7  the  payments  for  the  stalls  varied  from  4&.  4d.  to  as  much 
as  £z,  dependent,  we  suppose,  on  their  situation  and  siie.  In 
1832-3  the  corporation  returned  £go  as  the  year's  profits  from 
the  butchers'  stall  ground  and  the  general   stallage  of  the  market. 

The  Chandlers. 

There  was  a  guild  of  wax  chmdlers  in  Northampton,  but  we 
find  no  reference  to  it  in  the  later  records.  There  arc  two  entries 
of  some  interest  with  regard  to  tallow  candles. 

tn  1574  it  was  agreed  that  no  man  shall  buy  any  tallow  of  any 
tutcher,  either  of  the  town  or  county,  but  that  he  himself  shall 
make  and  convert  the  same  tallow  into  candles,  upon  pain  of  20s., 
shoemakers  only  excepted.  Half  of  the  fine  was  to  go  to  the 
informer,  and  half  to  the  chamber.  The  reason  for  this  order  was 
the  then  strongly  prevalent  notion  that  every  trade  should  exclusively 
confine  ilself  to  its  own  business.  The  boiling  down  of  fat  into 
tallow  was  work  for  the  tallow  chandler  or  the  ordinary  house- 
holder, and  not  for  the  butcher. 

In  1575  the  assembly  ordered  that  tlie  chandlers  should  sell 
Iheir  candles  for  threepence  a  pound,  and  the  butchers  to  sell  their 
tallow  for  two  shillings  and  twopence  a  stone. 

FiSHMONGKRS  AND   FiSHtNG. 

[t  was  ordered  in  15S5  that  e>'ery  Ebhmongcr  or  other  person 
dwelling  near  to  the  fish  stalls  should  make  clean  the  pavement 
before  their  stalls  and  doors  ever>'  Saturday  night,  and  at  the  same 
lime  carry  away  all  refuse,  under  pain  of  one  shilling ;  fourpence 
of  which  was  to  go  to  the  informer,  the  remainder  to  the  cliambcr. 
A  like  penalty  was  imposed  on  all  fishmongers  who  neglected  to 
carry  in  their  .fitalls  on  Saturday  night.  The  fish  stalls  were  away 
irom  tlie  rest  of  the  market,  on  the  site  of  the  present  Fish  street 


n 


THE   TOWN    TRADES. 


2B^ 


The 


did  their  best  to 


and  make  profit 


corporati 
of  the  fishing  in  the  town  waters. 

In  »555  it  w^s  determined  that  no  freemen  or  others  cast  nets 
into  the  town  u-aterd,  unless  they  farm  the  s^d  waters,  under  pain 
of  3s.  4d. 

One  Style,  of  KinRSthorpe,  had  the  lionour  of  an  order  of  the 
assembly  all  to  him&t-lf,  in  1555.  whm  iL  wa^  enacted  that  he  was 
Jo  be  "cxpulscd  oii  the  town  water  upon  paync  of  xt''  every  time 
be  taken  to  the  Chamber."  At  the  same  time  a  penalty  of 
J3.  4d.,  to  be  levied  by  the  chamberlain  by  distress,  was  imposed 
upoD  anyone  casting  dead  dogs  or  otlier  carrion  into  the  town 
waters. 

It  was  enacted  in  1605  that  no  man  fish  in  the  water  within 
the  franchise  save  such  as  do  farm  Uie  water ;  and  those  that  do 
farm  the  water  arc  not  to  use  any  kind  of  net  "  except  the  mesh 
be  as  wyde  as  a  groat  in  the  breaste-  for  safegard  of  the  younge 
frie  and  small  fishes,  and  as  broade  as  a  twocpence  in  the  pocket,  ' 
under  pain  of  forfeiture  of  the  net  and  imprisomcot  at  the  mayor's 
discretion," 

William  Hopkins  was  elected  pamekeepcr  for  the  manor  of 
Northampton  and  Cor  Gobion's  manor  by  the  a^sembly,  on  May  28th, 
1806,  and  the  common  seal  was  affixed  to  the  appointment.  William 
Hopkins  was  requested  to  appoint  two  proper  assistants,  not  to 
kill  game,  but  to  assist  him  in  detecting  trcrspasscrs,  and  to  par- 
ticularly attend  to  the  preservation  of  fish  in  the  river. 

It  was  at  tlic  same  time  resolved  that  the  mayor,  justices,  and 
bailiffs  for  the  time  being  be  a  committee  to  adopt  measures  for 
the  discovery  and  punishment  of  trespassers  and  poachers,  such  as 
co-operating  with  the  lords  of  the  numor  on  the  opposite  side  of 
the  river,  and  advertising  and  paying  rewards  for  the  detection 
of  those  infringing  on  the  manorial  rights  and  fisheries  of  the 
corporation.  The  river  was  only  to  be  dragged  for  taking  fish  at 
such  times  as  the  committee  thought  proper;  no  net  was  to  be  cast 
into  the  river  at  any  other  time  ;  and  no  other  fishing  (save  angling) 
was  to  be  permitted  to  any  person  whatsoever,  not  even  to  a 
^Bmcmber  of  tbe  corporation. 

^H      This  order  about  not    fishing   was,  however,  soon  repealed,  so 

^V{ar  as  the  corporation  was   concerned.     The    assembly  of  August 

Z7th,  1807,  ''Ordered  that  every  Member  of  this  fiouse   have  full 

and  free  liberty  to  Fish  with  Nets  in  the  River  Nine  at  Discretion, 


aSS 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  KBCORDS. 


11 

1 

■ 

'4 
I 


and  that  no  member  or  members  be  permitted  to  give  leave  to  any^ 
other  person  to  fisb  (except  with  angle),  nor  to  employ  any  person 
or  persons  not  being  Members  to  assist  in  taking  Fish." 

Mr.  John  Shaw  was  appointed  gamekeeper  in  tSja  for  the  cor- 
poration ni;tnor8  of  Northamptuti  and  Gobioa. 

The  Fullers, 

The  assembly  in  15S5  granted  a  new  constitution  to  the  fullers 
and  shcrcmen,  at  their  own  bumble  rrqucsl,  for  the  better  ordering 
of  the  master  and  householders  of  that  occupation,  and  for  Ibe  due, 
diligent,  and  lan-ful  using  of  their  fellow  ton'nsmen,  and  neighbours 
in  the  country,  who  had  woollen  cloth  to  be  wTOughl.  The  following 
are  the  principal  provisions  : — 

That  no  fullers  or  shcreman  carr>'  out  of  the  town  or  fetch  into' 
it  any  manner  of  work  upon  the  Sabbath  Day,  under  pain  of  6s.  8d. 

That  any  one  refusing  the  office  of  warden  of  the  compaay 
pay  IDS, 

That  anyone  not  answering  to  the  summons  of  the  warden  sen' 
by  the  proper  officer  pay  6*.  Sd. 

That  if  anyone  of  the  company  work  any  cloths  to  proof,  and 
do  not  send  for  the  wardens  to  search  and  view  the  same  before 
it  be  delivered  to  the  ironer,  he  be  fined  6s.  8d. 

That  no  stranger,  not  being  free  among  the  fullers  and  sheremeo 
of  the  town,  take  any  work  to  do  within  the  town,  under  pain 
of  6s,  8d. 

That  no  freeman  of  the  town  of  any  degree  put  out  any  cloth 
to  be  wrought  in  the  country  or  out  of  the  town,  under  pain 
of  6s.  8d. 

That  if  any  one  of  the  company  hire  any  man's  joumeymsB 
without  the  consent  of  his  master,  he  be  fined  6b.  8d. 

That  if  any  one  of  the  company  behave  himself  disorderly  in 
words  or  deeds  at  any  assembly  called  by  the  wardens  he  be  fined 
6s.  8d. 

That  if  any  man  of  the  country  desire  to  be  received  into  the 
town  and  to  be  free  of  this  company  (without  having  ser\'ed  his 
apprenticeship  or  being  free  bom  of  the  town)  he  shall  at  his 
entrance  make  to  the  whole  company  of  fullers  and  sheremen  a 
dinner  at  his  own  cost,  and  pay  the  company  13s.  ^d. 

That  any  one  being  free  bonj,  or  having  served  his  apprenticeship 
with  any  freeman  of  the  company,  shall  at  his  own  entrance  provide 
a  suflicient  dinner  and  pay  6s.  8d. 


I 


THE  TOWN   TBAUES. 


That   if   any  one  of  the  compajiy  of   fullers  and   sheremen  do 

Imisbeliave  contrary  to  law    by  picking,  stealing,  or  filching  men's 

goods  wrongfully,  or  do  rob  any  "  tej'ntors  or  fulling  myllcs,"  the 

same  being   attainted  by    ibe  law,  he  shall  be  expelled  out  of  the 

[town  from  u'orkin^  any  more  therein. 

That  no  fuller  nor  shereraan  shall  work  with  no  other  manner 
of  stuffes  than  is  appointed  by  the  statute,  under  pain  of  6s.  Sd. 

That  on  the  feast  of  St.  Thomas  the  Apostle,  all  fullers  and 
sheremen  shall   meet   in  the  church  of  AH  Saints  to  elect  two 

I  wardens,  under  pain  of  6s.  fid. 
That  all  fines  be  divided  between  the  mayor  and  the  company. 
The  Glovers. 
It  was  ordered  in  1556  thai- 
No  glover  wa)he  no«  sk^nc*  in  the  hyglie  Ryv«r  doi   without   the  we*t    btj-dgv 
nor  drjre  any    wall  upon   ih«  Graac  in  (he   Foie    medowe,  but   nhall   wiuhe  th«t 
Skynnea  in  the  pyt  under  ibe  bryd|{e  next   unUi  Dalington  upon    pujiic  vf  xl*,  oot 
•hell  kingn  ai>  Sltynii**  upon  the  briJx"  «pon   the  Ivln   payno. 

At  an  assembly  held  on  .April  ^ih,  1594.  it  was  recited  that  the 
glovers  had  lately  been  discharged  from  this  constitmion.  and 
leave  had   been  given  to  foreigners    to  come    in  to   buy  and  sell, 

*but  that— 
Yl  yg  now*  agr*»d  that  ik*  aai>d   gloven  ihall   luve  th«!r  Coottitution    urholT* 
agcirnt,  and   Vomyntn  to  be  put  ouie  to  as  tbry  piij-e  lo  the  Chamber  nj"  in 
hande,  paTccIl  uf  Armiayc*  of  Sjxr  poundcs  and  Twcntie  ihillinge*  a   yere  to  tba 
Chamber  fur  th«  Yetcly  R«tiie  of  iht-  lame  Constitution. 

In  16^9  it  was  agreed  that — 

Nue  glover  inh-nbiirng  in  thii  libcnie  chall  at  anie  lytne  liMeafier  sIiiU  lung  or 
by  by  hiouclfe  or  his  terraunls  anie  sheep  skins  ur  leuclier  upon  St.  Thomas  Well 
bed^  or  upon  ario  pan  of  the  lowno  oommons,  ii|>on  pain  of  every  glover  ollcadinj; 
heroin  in  contempt  of  thin  preMnt  order  to  forfeit  and  pay  ri*  viii*  to  ihoM:  of  the 
Corpontion  (or  everk  aovecall  tyme  lie  shall  loe  offend. 

The  Hosiers. 
It  is  obvious  from  the  following  extract  from  the  order  book  of 
October  31st.  1608.  that  the  hosiers  of  Northampton  were  at  that 
time  an  important  body  of  men. 

It  y*  ap^ed  and  ordered  Thiil  whereas  there  was  a  petition  to  tha  King's  most 
etcellent  nruijestie  in  bis  higline*  witli  his  noble  Qnnxe  th«ir  progrHM  through  ihu 
Corpontion,  of  which  said  petition  as  ytt  there  is  no  answeio  oe  Refercnoe :  Thu 
nuwQ  the  ume  petition  ihalbe  Ihoroiighlin  folow«d  for  aiuwere  or  refeivnce  at  Out 
coste*  aod  danger  of  the  Corporation,  And  that  Mr.  Heory  ChadwcU,  one  of  ibe 

i; 


290 


NORTHAMPTON    BOBOIIGH    RECORDS. 


ChomberUins  of  the  said  townc  ihall  fouTthmtb  trarail  and  proKCutA  IB  this  bahallc 
uniiU  aniware  cr  Rcfer«nc«  shalbe  obt#yntd  -.  And  wliereu  the  Lord  Jiayor  o(  Um 
Citic  at  London  and  other  hli  M.-i""  ofRccn  ihnc  do«  requite  a  catoinc  kinde  «( 
tolage  of  the  hoiyani  of  this  Coiporstion,  who  wecltlie  doe  mak«  ii)Mch:tndu*  with 
tlidr  host,  in  near<  or  abuuic  ihc  said  Citlc.  (torn  which  tolasc  and  cverie  otber 
suchc  kinde  of  exaction  whatidcvcf,  the  frMm«n  and  burgoue*  of  thii  Corporatioi), 
bjr  divene  enuntet  and  priviledgex  iir«  to  be  freed ;  It  U  likewbe  ocdered  thai  the 
uide  Mr.  Chadvricke  HiM  likcwiie  at  the  charcM  o£  th*  Curpontioa  dnalo  as  he 
■h>lbe  advised,  (or  the  maynttnsaet  cf  sucbs  our  privilegci  in  ibis  behalfe 
without  delay c. 

The  Ironmongers. 

At  the  assembly  held  Jtine  12th,  t562,  it  was  considered  that 
the  ironmongers'  constitution  was  "  not  mete  for  a  Common  wcalc," 
and  it  was  therefore  discharged  and  set  at  iiaughl. 

Notwithstanding  this  condcnmation,  the  constitution  of  the  iron- 
mongers lingered  on  for  another  liftecn  years. 

Id  1577  it  WM  agreed  that — 

Whereoit  the  Iruntnonjers  and  others  oit  Ihii  Companic  within  the  Corporalion 
have  for  cenuinc  yearca  laat  paM  made  ddaultc  in  payment  of  their  stipende 
annuitif  or  same  oE  money  duo  to  be  pajvd  lo  thum  of  the  Ti>nne  chamber  by  and 
for  their  Constitmion  and  orders.  That  yf  they  shall  not  before  the  firW  day  oi 
Marchc  paye  to  Mr.  Mayor  to  thm«  of  the  lownc  chamber  suche  lume  of  money 
at  is  by  ihem  oweing  That  then  Iheir  said  Constitution  and  all  and  everie  article 
ihcfcin  conlGyn«d  shalbe  derclie  frustrate  voydc  ititi  of  none  effect  cT«n  as  tbougbe 
the  some  had  never  b«ne  had  nor  made. 

The  Mercbrs. 

An  Elizabethan  constitution,  made  in  the  mayoralty  of  Henry 
Clarke  (1573-4;,  for  the  mercers  and  haberdashers,  in  conjunctioo 
with  six  other  trades,  has  already  been  recited  at  some  length  at 
the  beginning  of  this  section. 

A  few  months  later,  namely  on  August  30th,  1574,  it  was  agreed 
that  the  constitution  of  the  mercers  and  haberdashers  should  be 
accepted,  engrossed,  and  sefl-led,  and  the  fires  thereof  were  to  be 
divided— half  to  the  chamber,  and  half  to  the  occupation.  It 
would  thus  appear  that  the  mercers  and  haberdashers  were  then 
separated  from  the  rather  curious  amalgam  of  federated  trades. 

Their  constitution  was  formally  renewed  and  confirmed  in  1588. 

MiLXERS  AND  MiLLS. 

It  was  resolved  in  1586  that  no  person  of  the  trade  or  occupation 
of  a  miller  should  be  made  free  of  the  town  unless  be  pay  40s., 


THE   TOWN   TRADES. 


391 


id  if  he  had  some  other  occupation    or  trade,  in  addition  to  that 
of  a  miller.  Iliai  then  he  should  pay  the  customary  j^io. 

In  1617  the  (reemen  who  owned  mills  within  the  liberties  com. 

>]ained  to  the  corporation  that  diverse  foreign  and  country  millers 

knd  their  loaders  were  intruding  into  the    town   and   carrying  the 

corn  of  the   inhabitants    to  other  mills.     The  assembly  thereupon 

^prdered  that  no  miller   nor  loader    should  hereafter  thus    intrude, 

inder  a  penalty  of  los.     A  saving  clause,  to  check  imposition,  was, 

however,  added:    "Provided  that  the    inhabitants  may   be  as  well 

rServed  at  freemen's  mills  as  they  may  be  at  any  other  mills." 

In  1656  the  assembly  procured  limber  for  the  repair  of  Mar- 
ills'  mills,  and  ordered  that  the  meadows  belonging  to  the  milU 
should  be  planted  with  willows,  The  two  chamberlains  and  four 
,  Other  members  of  the  corporation  were  at  the  same  time  appointed 
ruslees  for  the  "  improvement  and  advantage  of  the  said  Mills, 
mcadowes,  and  grounds  to  them  committed."  The  trustees  shortly 
aiteru'ards  leased  (he  Holme  and  Foot  Meadows  belonging  to  the 
mills  to  Thomas  Peach,  for  five  years,  at  a  rent  of  £24. 

At  a  later  date,  in  the  same  year,  the  trustees  for  Marvells' 
/atermills  were  ordered  by  the  assembly  to  erect  a  windmill  (or 
^the  use  of  the  town,  and  to  plant  the  same  in  the  most  convenient 
^lace.  In  the  following  year  Joseph  Emcrtoii  was  ordered  to  perfect 
Jthe  windmill  with  sails  and  other  implements  tliat  it  lacked,  and 
'  also  to  make  good  the  foundations  to  the  satisfaction  of  the  mayor 
and  aldtrmen.  A  sum  of  £^  was  voted  to  defray  these  expends. 
On  February  agth.  1659,  the  assembly  ordered  "that  Mr. 
Toollaston  shall  receive  out  the  chamber  the  sume  of  Five  pounds 
[for  the  removcinge  and  Cappinge  of  the  Windmill  belongingc  to 
Ithe  Towoe." 

In  May,  i&5o,  the  chamberlain  was  ordered  to  take  into  his 
custody  "Tlie  Nett  and  the  Coggs  and  Rounds  in  the  possession 
of  Curtis,  that  did  lately  belong  to  Marvells'  mills." 

In    the    following    August    the    mayor    and     five    others    were 
appointed    as  a  committee  to    inquire   what  money  was  in  arrcar 
and  justly  due  to  Joseph  and  William  Emerton,  upon  their  petition 
concerning  the  windmill  lately  set  up  by  them  for  the  town's  use. 
It  was  ordered  in  October,  1657,  that  William  and  John  Sclby, 
lie  persons  entrusted  with  the  receipts  of  Mar\'eUs'  mills,  do  give 
Ian  account  thereof  at  the  next  assembly,  and   that    John    Twigden 
[and  Joseph  Hensman  be  appointed  collectors  for  the  next  year,  and 

U  2 


393 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


pay  the  money  and  arrears  to  the  master  of  St  Thomas  hospits 
as  part  of  the  Laotfham  money ;  and  if  there  was  necessity  to  buy 
a  mill  horse,  then  the  chamber  is  lo  lay  down  the  money  and 
be  rc-imbursed  out  of  the  mill  prottts. 

In  October,  of  the  same  year,  a  lease  was  granted  Mr.  Jot 
Frcnd  of  bias  house  of  Mar\-ell  mills,  together  with  the  windmil 
at  a  yearly  rental  of  £45,  for  seven  years. 

In    March.    166;,  the  assembly    consented   to    Mr.  Rainesford's     1 
desire  to  have  "  the  Ubertie  of  the  Water  runninge  from  his  Clacl^f 
Mill  at  any  time  yrarcly  from  yeare  lo  yeare  for  him  and   heires" 
for  ever   in  the  monelhcs   of    February  March  and    .^priU  for  the, 
Wateringe  of  his  groundes  there  adjacent  And  onely  Twodayes  ii 
each  moncthc  of  the  moncthes  of    May  June  and  July  for   Twelvi 
hours   at   one  time  and  to  be   debarred    from   any   further  u^agc 
thereof  to  any  purpose  at  any  other  time." 

In.  order  to  find  money  for  an  expensive  lawsuit  in  which  they 
were    engaged,    the   corporation,    in   September,    167 1,   obtained 
mortgage  of  j^^+oo  on  Marvelis"  mills. 

The  following  entry  occurs  in  the  orders  of  assembly  fot 
November  32nd,  1671  :— 

Nicholas  D^r  the  Miller  of  Marvellx    Milli    bcitiE    in    airean    of    Rent  for  itm^ 
MiUi  and  nuking  it  knowiie  to  th'tt  fionnc  thai   he  hath  suitaiiwd  Iocs  (of  vrasl  of 
Ih*  Wyndcmiil  and  Dallingion    W.ittfCTitir^  th*  whole  nutter  b    w(«Ted  to   Mr,^| 
Thomaa  Attvrbur]'  and  Mr.  Edward  Kinj^non  foi  the  loirnc  and  the  Miller  to  choose'^ 
two  p«ruiis  of  Ihii  how««  and  tli«y  10  report  tbcir  Arbitration  (he  n«xt  a»NRit>I]r. 

Thr^  result  of  this  rntjuiry  was  that  the  town  paid  the  late 
miller  the  sum  of  j^22  for  his  mJILsloncs  and  other  materials  left 
by  him. 

In  1672  a  lease  for  seven  years  was  granted  to  Thomas   Dent 
miller,  uf  the  Marvell  mills  and  the  xrindmill.  at  a  yearly   rent 
j^38.     At  the  same  time  it  was  ordered  tliat  the  difference  between 
Anthony  Buckingham,  miller,  and  the   corporation  concerning  the 
windmill  and  its  repair  be  referred  to  Mr.  Recorder  Lovcll. 

The  chamberlain's  accounts  for  1680  show  that  the  sails  of  the 
town  wmdmill  were  then  recovered,  and  other  repairs  effected. 

P*  Mr  Adulter  for  clotb  for  ye  Windmill  4a  Ells  al  8*  th«  Ell 16$ 

Halfe  a  pd  of  thredd  and  id  needlei o    ■    3 

P*  the  millrigbts  for  work,  timber,  and  sauring.  For  b»lt«,  plate*,  and  b««M    1 

It  is  incidentally  mentioned  in  1685  that  the  corporation  11 


>uy 

lill^ 

I 

1 


;en  1 

be 

i 


THE  TOWN    TRADES. 


393 


rhich  had  given  all  this  irouble  and  caused  so  much  expense  for 
Itv  years,  had  been  sold. 

The  Shoemakers. 

At  an  assembly  held  in  the  Guildhall  on   January  30th.   1551-2 
the  earliest  of  which   the  minutes  are  extant)  it  was  ordered: — 

That  evvcj  shoemAka  thai  jrs  dispo»«d  to  set  upe  Shoppe  within  tlii*  town  and 
ttaa  not  btn  prenlj«  wlyn  th«  ume  shall  pave  at  his  Setting  upe  sxx*.  that  ii  ta 
laye  xiij'  iiij'  to  the  mayniir  for  (he  ijTiie  bcingr,  xiij*  iiij^  10  the  chamber  of  the 
town,  *nd  iij*  iiij*  to  the  occupation. 

That  every  shoaukeT  yi  haitie  bea  or  sholbe  prentys  within  this  town  that  ys 
<lispoacd  to  mi  upe  Shcipe  and  to  uf^cupfe  as  M'  shall  pay  xvj*  viij',  yt  y%  to  sajr 
X*  to  the  mayotir  for  the  lyme  b«inge  for  hit  fratinctiM  and  Settinge  upe,  tij*lli}* 
to  the  rbambcr,  iij*  iiij*  to  t)ic  orcupaitan, 

Tlut  evmy  shomakct  thai  »  dispc^ed  to  9Clt  upe  Shopc  beinj[  bom  within  thjri 
ll,tOwn  shall  pay  for  hit  (raunchys  and  Setting  upe  lo  the  mayor  tor  the  tyme  being 
and  to  tbo  occupation  aa'. 

Iff  any  ikomaker  within  the  tOMA«  tKal  i*  M'  and  dortbe  oecupye  \%  M'  that 
dotbe  tet  a  othci  nians  xrvini  a  vrorhe  beinx  ^f^  the  laiiic  uccupatiuii  that  haihe 
WTOtight  a  fortayghl  w'  any  on*  ofl  thtm  eacepC  he  be  lau-fu)l)-a  pnrtyd  from  bil 
^^_Myde  matter  and  w*  his  good  wyll.  that  if  any  do  oRend  in  the  fame  to  pay  vj'  vii)*  for 
^^MvcM-  lymc.  half  to  the  mayouT  and  tinlf  to  the  occnpation. 

^^H       Further  if  any  jorncTman  of  the  same  occupation  be  detectyd  off  any  uniruihe 

^^Band  thereof  due  pruofe  made  thai  then  the  waideni  at  tlic  lamt  occupation  for  (be 

r        tynie  beinco  »hall  g\\K  narningc  unto  yt  M'  with  whonic  (he  t«yd«  aficndcr  doetbc 

worhi)  that  he  shall  immcdyntlj-c  put   him  lunhe  off  senryr*.  and  that  he  be  not  set  a 

worfcc  by  any  man  of  ibe  lame  occupatiAn  vrithyn  this  town  upon  pain  of  erery  tyme 

■o  offrndin^e  to  pajr  vj*  iriij*  that  a  to  tay  iii*  inj*  to  the  mnyour  and  iij'  Uij*  to  the 

^^occu  pat  ion . 

^^h  Tlut  no  sbotnaker  wttbyn  this  town  ■!  any  tyme  set  fortha  ahsll  in  the  mftrket 
^^'^ace  or  before  his  &hap«  lo  ihowe  and  tell  any  shoet  or  botes  upon  payn  to  iij*  iiij*  to 
tl)B  nu)  out  and  Uij*  lo  the  occupation.  And  that  ao  ahomaiccr  imng  not  a  fiaunchitcd 
ni«»  talte  DpOB  them  (o  sbewe  or  aell  any  botes  or  shooes  within  the  tibeniet  off  this 
^^^Qwne  upon  p^yii  to  (orSet  tlie  sanM  balff  to  the  mayour  and  balA  to  the  occupatlao. 
^^H  Iff  uy  joTDeyman  of  Ibe  aarae  oceupatloo  yt  do*lh«  co«m  to  thi*  town*  and 
^^»ork«th*  w*  a  M'  of  lh«  um«  craft  by  the  spaue  off  a  fo«ni{ht  or  longer,  and  w 
^^P  dcparlcth  out  of  the  town  and  within  a  quarter  uf  a  yc/e  doclie  Retorne  ai:ainc.  the 
Scyde  Jorocyman  shall  |;o  lo  the  same  man  that  be  WTOUghl  wiihall  at  hii  dfparfjre 
owt  off  the  town  and  after  him  worite,  And  if  the  aaJdc  M'  will  not  then  ux  him  a 
wo(k«,  ibe  scide  Jorneyman  then  to  be  al  his  libertie  to  vorlte  with  whom  he  lyst,  And 
if  «ny  maister  uf  the  s>«c  crafl  do  Sett  him  a  work  conirarie  (o  this  aider  be  to 
forfTelt  for  entry  time  so  offenduic  rj'  riij^  b.i!f  to  the  mayoiu  and  balS  lo  ibe 
oceopatiot). 

That  all  the  shonulien  witbyn  this  Iowa  yt  dotbe  set  upe  and  occupyc  its  masters 
shall  aaacmble  them  Klres  togetber  by  the  concent  o(  the  mayout  for  the  tyme  bein^v 


2W 


NORTHAMPTON    HOROLXH    RECORDS. 


I 


fcflre  upon  the  xxvlb  d«y«  (»ff  October  and  then  chuie  ij  diicrrt  men  off  itier  occv 
paiion  to  vcwennd  Mrdie  >11  nwinner  off  hidci  being;  barbyd  and  loldewithin  any  plaoe  ^^ 
olf  this  town  for  thintent  to  knowc  whether  lhe;r  be  lawfully  wrought  or  no,  and  that  ^M 
na  man  put  unv*  on  M\m  before  tbey  be  nercliyd  and  aeilyd  upon  pij^ne  of  (orfiijrture  ^^ 
of  all  vifchR  hyde«  so  put  to  lulc  halff  Id  the  mayor  halfl  to  the  occupation,  and  then 
twini;  u$j«mblyd  vtiall  Tcrelye  chuEu;  ij  di^oret  men  o!T  iher  occopjitlon  to  be  Yr«rden* 
to  see  good  Rule  and  ord#r  kept    In  ther   ocrupDiion   for  the  yere  foltowinge.  and 
they  and  the  olde  waidens  and  Scfchere  shall  present  the  wardens  and  netcben  llw 
next  Court  daye  sfter  the  election    before  the  mayowr   (ot  the  time  being    In   til* 
Guyball  and  tber  to  take  ther  other  upon  ptjne  to  paye  as  well  the  new  serchcrs  and 
wardens  as  the  old  that  do  tnalce  default  rj*  viij'',  half  te  tbe  mayor,  etc. 

That  tUe  >eide  warden*  shall  yerlye  collect  and  Gather  all  (yoe^  and  amcrciaoMnl* 
coniayned  In  this  ordinance  and  yeld  a  Irewe  and  elere  AcoRipte  unto  the  Mayor  and 
Chninbetlaines  for  the  tyme  being^c  upon  the  day  cjilied  the  Convefsyon  off  Siynl 
Paall  upon  payne  for  every  *oche  of  the  teide  Warden*  to  pale  x',  half  to  j"  mayor, 
and  halfe  ut  supra. 

Further  If  any  of  the  sclde  occupation  be  it  M'  or  Jornjiiian  do  Renst  tw  (Titftttlf 
stond  in  any  Contention  wite  the  wardeni  of  the  o«eiipatloii  contrary,  u  master  to 
paye  for  every  tyme  offendinge  vj'  villj*  nl  supra,  and  every  Jomyman  xJj* 
at  Mipra. 

in  Witness  wbereoft  as  well  the  comon  Seale  as  the  Seal*  of  OCRc*  of  tlw 
■nyonliye  of  the  town  of  Nortb'ton  to  this  presmt  ya  put  the  daie  ai»d  yere 
thorn  wriion. 

Sasby,  cot*  Clicos  &tn. 

In  1555  the  company  of  shoemakers  entrusted  their  funds  to 
the  keeping  of  the  town  chamberlain. 

M^*  That  on  the  Convereion  of  Seynt  Paule  Robert  Honley  and  William 
Saundcri  Masters  of  the  Shomakcrs  in  the  ycrc  of  r>'  lord  fod  mv'Iliij  brouxfat  Into 
Guyldhall  to  William  Taylor  mayor  and  John  Bri);hin:ian  Chambeilayne  «  treasure 
to  the  town  Fort  there  ttindt  of  tbe  bolle  corporation  of  corviers  (cordwaincn:)  craft 
the  Some  of  11)"  lij*  ij'  W*^  was  delyvccsd  to  Thomas  Grcne  Chambeclsyae  at  the 
makinge  of  M'  Taylor's  Acompte  the  v"  dale  of  Defomber  A"  1555- 

In  164a  the  shoemakers  of  Northampton  received  a  large  order 
for  shoes  for  the  soldiers  setting  forth  to  Ireland.  The  Domestic 
State  Papers  show  that  the  account,  after  nine  years,  still  remained 
unpaid.  On  April  i6th.  1651.  Thomas  Pendleton,  and  twelve  other 
shoemakers  of  Northampton,  petitioned  the  committee  for  com> 
poiindin];  for  an  order  on  the  Ladyday  rents  of  the  estate  of 
William  Band,  of  Walgrave,  a  Popish  recusant  and  delinquent,  in 
discharge  of  their  account  for  furnishing  the  treasurers-at<war  for 
Ireland,  in  1643,  by  spt-cial  order  of  committee  of  parliament,  with 
4000  pairs  of  shoes  and  600  pairs  of  boots  (or  the  soldiers.  Owing 
to  the  dangerous  times,  they  were  forced  to  ha\-e  a  grant  of  convoy 


I 
I 


THE   TOWN   TRAD8S. 


395 


of  horse  to  secure  the  safe  delivery  of  the  goods  in  London,  and 
they  claimed  to  be  j^iooo  out  of  purse.  The  House  of  Commons, 
in  1648,  authorised  the  Goldsmith  hall  committee  to  sell  the  estate 
and  pay  the  petitioners.  The  county  committee  thereupon  let  the 
estate  to  the  petitioners  for  £400  a  year  for  three  years,  ended 
last  Michaelmas,  but  j£200  7s.  6d.  was  still  due  to  them. 

At  an  assembly  held  on  January  18th,  1655-6  "  It  was  ordered 
and  agreed  that  the  shocmalvcrs  shall  have  A  Constitution  amongs 
themselves  as  other  Tradesmen  have,  and  ns  heretofore  they 
commonly  have  had."  This  is  the  latest  mention  of  "trade 
constitutions"  in  the  town  records. 

Northampton  again  found  shoes  for  our  soldiers  in  Ireland, 
during  the  unhappy  conflict  of  168S-9.  A  letter  to  William 
from  Dundalk,  dated  October  23rd,  1689,  mentions  that  4000  shoes 
had  been  distributed  amony  the  troops,  which  had  been  made  at 
Northampton.     "  At    lirst   Lt.  Gen.    Douglas  said   they  were    the 

[best  and  cheapest  he  ever   met  with,  but   now  he  does  not   like 

;  them,  thupgh  all  the  English  colonels  do." 

The  TAtiJDRS  and  Woollen  Drapers. 

The  only  reference  we  have  found  in  the  later  records  to  the 
company  or  guild  of  the  tailors,  established  by  the  corporation  in 
1444  {Li&er  Custumarum).  is  for  the  year  1588,  when  they  are 
named  in  association  with  the  woollen  drapers.  At  the  ai^sembly 
held  on  June  28th,  of  that  year,  it  was  ordered  that — 

Whanas  tttc  companyc  of  Tiylar*  and  woollen  drnp«n  have  of  I011K  timo  tisd 
Conititutitira  and  nriicni  amongai  (hem  esinblUlied,  hy  conwnl  of  ih«  whols  bod^ia 
of  the  nidc  townc.  u  nell  for  ihc  expelling  owtc  of  Porrajrncrs.  ai  foT  Che  good 
govmncment  of  their  vaide  companies  and  the  common  w«tll  «f  W  Ma""  loving 
subjccti:  WhiL'h  ih«lr  ulde  conultuiLons  and  orden  b«lng  no»-e  fruitraied  and 
royde,  they  h.ive  not  onclle  made  thcii  humble  ret^ucasic  for  ihe-renewing  of  ihc 
same,  but  abo  have  tendred  the  ume  with  other  good  urden  concerning  their  siidc 
tndta  In  writing,  to  ibende  they  nuie  be  coullnned  by  cciiMni  of  this  ai>Kmblie ; 
It  li  therafore  («f  divtrM  good  conildeMliona  condi*e«ndcd  ordered  and  agr«ed  bjr 
conaent.  as  y»  aforeMide,  that  their  saide  constitutiam  snd  crdera  ihalbe  of  fora 
aod  so  c«niynu«d  a«  other  consttlulions  within  th«  Mine  lownc  aceordlnge  to  the 
tenure  form*  snd  effeci  of  the  viine. 

Thb  Whitawers  and  Tasners. 

The  following  constitution  for  the  company  of  the  whitawers 
and  tanners  was  enrolled  id  the  town  records  in  1566. 


396 


NORTHAMETON     BOROUCH     RECORDS. 


Imprimi*  it  U  nrd«ynp(l  cv«ri«  jr«aT«  oppon   ih«  tQndai«  n«st  ahm  th«   date 
Sainte  Luke  the  Evnngeli-itc  with  the  license  of  the  Maior  forthc  lime  being  Tben 
Ihe  Mide  Crjft  and   OccupK-ani  fur  to  come  and  meel  together  And  by  the  ConMOte 
of  the  whole  C»fie  they  shall  auetnble  lhein<u>lv«  tuj;eiher  And  by  the  CoBsente  ot 
the  whvie  Craftc  ihalt  tncte  at  the  hall  ot  Sdincic  Kathttine*  or  clswhvrc  within  the 
nme  towne  of    Northampton  And  then  and   there  chall  nomynate  and   eboosc  tore 
warden!  of  the  Mine  occupation  AlTorcsiiide  For  to  rule  and  j^ovcrnc  the  laid  rraftes 
and  oecupntionR  the  next  yMire  following;  And  to  redresie  and  remcde  all  mnnner  ot 
decitea  and  defnulm  that  maie  be  foundr  amonge  the  saii^e  Crafiei  ard  occupation 
And  ji  tbetc  bee  of  the  said  two  wardeiu  (hat  soe  be   choicn  and  will  not  stande  to 
pay  x*   withowte  anie  del^j'e  The   une   haife   to  the   chamber  :iiid  iliuther  halfe  to 
ihoccupalion  And  soe  to  take  another  In  hia  or  their  siede  And  the  uide  two  waideni 
to  be  (wome  the  court  date  after  the  eleecon  mide  And  when  the  two   wnrdeni  be 
charged  aiiil    iworne  yl  any   (ynex  or  profSttcs   happen   to  come  within   the  *aide 
ywre  Then  they  t»  reoeavc  yt  drd  RJithsr  thccn  intu  (heir  handes.  And  to  make  a 
true  secotnptc  nf  nil   tui'he  thln^PH  and  r*rkoninge§  iippon    Che  toTidiie  necte  upon 
Saint    I.uke»   daye    to   ihc   newc   w-irdcni    vppon    paync   of  xs'  for  (he  dcfaulia 
without  Kmedie  To  nye  x*  to  the  cbamber  of  the  to<«-ite  «nd  x*  lo  lh«  Mme  occn- 
putions  And  further    it  is  enacted  and  agreed   that  the  uide  two  wardens  with  lli« 
conxcnl  of  the  whole  crafce  shnil  ccm  nnd  bye  anion^  themselves  of  the  *iaic  craftc 
acirordinj;  to  evcric  mannc'it  habiliiie  to  the   vise   of  the  chamber  of  the  lowne  the 
some  of  XX'  cvecie  ycarc  once  And  the  soide  two  wardens  to  payc  the  same  lo  the 
mayor  and  the  ehamherlnynes  for  the  lime  beinj^  to  the  u»e  of  the  chamber  nrithis 
twelv*  dales  next  aFler  the  daje  of   the    fexfl    of    Saint    Uike  (he  ETangeltn   next 
following  uppon  payne  of.  .  .withowtc  rctnedie  or  dclaye  lo  the  chamber  of  the  lowae 
Also  it  is  ordeyned  that  yf  anie  of  the  Mide  Cfalte  being  residanl   within  the  towae 
be  summoned  toctiine  before  ihcuide  ivardens  by  a  bedill  appointed  and  doe  not  cucdc 
when   [hey  Bie  •ummonrd    he  or  ihey  ahal)  piiye  (or  «vcriB  tymc  •»  doing    icij'  to  the 
tnmeorcupacion  wichonte  rcmedie  And  further  it  is  enacted  and  agread  that  ihttv 
shall  nocstraun^er  nor  furryiicr  come  tntu  lhi>  morkclt  within  the  tovrne  oi  North- 
ampton Eo  buye  anle  hyde  or  hydes  bitllnrlce  ikynne  or  caulft  tkynne  biit  that  he  or 
they  shall  bring  in  quantilie  as  muche  lethcr  re-idic  tanned  Into  this  marfcett  to  sell 
the  same  daye  as  he  or  they  shall  buys  roughe  hydei  or  *kynnc<  the  aarne  daye  in 
the  same  marketi  by  the  saide  struunger  or  forryner  And  not  to  buye  anie  bj-de*  or 
skyniies  bulluckc  sltyime  or  calfe  >iky»no  before  ihc  botirc  of  xij  of  the  clocks  uppon 
paync   of  everie   •tmungor  or  ferryner   soe   doinge  to   paye  vj*  eiij'  Iimm   that   no 
forryner  doe  bopcakc  to  anic  butcher  sor  his  hycle  or  hydet  or  anie  other  skynne*  n* 
is  .ifoteMide  hoforc    the   s.side   hOMre    of  xij    o(    the   clocke    iippon    pnine    of   everie 
str.iunj;rer  or  foiryner  soe  doing  for  cvrrin  hyde  or  vkynne  noe  hoiif;hti  nr   b«spolc« 
before  the  saidc  houre  appointed  y{  it  be  proved  by  two  witii'Mses  he  or  they  to  forfeit 
vj*  viij*  thone  hatfe  to  the  ehimber  and  thather  halh  to  the  rompanie  of  the  taernars 
withowtc  remedic  And  further  it  is  en«cled  and  agreed  that  noe  manner  of  person  or 
penone*  buy  neither   hide   bullock  sky nne  nor  calfe  ikynne  nor  noe  kynde  of  aeate 
lether  withowte  the  precinctet  of  the  highe  crosse  called  the  marketi  crosse  and  tbe 
pillarve  on  the  inatkec  dnyt  The  Cloven   of  the  towne  and  Butchers  Rowe  oitelk 
excepted  And   ihnt  no«  mnnntr  of  penon  ehall  nsnd*  to  looke  or  watch  for  ante 


THE    TOWN    TRAD8S. 


397 


or  >k}raoa  or  sk^DDn  u  aforeuide  bun  onolis  in  th«  aaiit  plan  appoiatod 
that  y*  to  My«  tli*  higha  crossc  and  the  pilUr;*  upfton  payn*  of  tntl*  hyd* 
or  ikynne  mc  wnlchcd  for  c»  boufltie  10  forfcti  v)'  viij'  thonc  halfc  to  the  chnmber 
anil  thotliFT  halfc  to  the  saidc  Occupation  witlicwte  r«medje  And  furttiermoroj-t  ia 
afreedthat  aoa  maonM  of  [»enon  ihall  buy  any  Rougbe  hy<]«  or  hytlea  or  qkynnes 
in  tbe  hcarc  and  lell  ihe  Mine  a^n  in  the  h«are  uotanneiJ  ihall  forfctt  fcr  ci-cric  byde 
ot  ikynne  sue  bou^'ht  and  icilde  untinike<t  x'  ifaotie  halfc  to  the  chamber  and  ihotber 
halfe  III  «foa.iiide  occupation  Ani!  (unhrrmate  it  ia  tnacteJ  init  ajjrwil  ihal  yf 
IBJft  per*on  br  penoix  oE  thix  occupation  uijng  the  arte  of  tannyiag  of  l<ithor  on 
irhi[tawin£  doe  refuae  or  denye  anie  of  their  orderx  befme  rehearaed  or  will  itttbbomlit 
vHiistaode  the  »aiilr  two  wanlen*  lor  level  n^  of  anic  fync  or  (yneii  before  cKprcised 
dufl  parpOM  iherNf  be  ma^le  he  or  th«y  ihill  pave  for  ev»rie  lyme  toe  offending 
X*  ihonc  h,-ilfc  to  the  chamber  and  ihoiher  b^lfc  (o  (he  Mide  occupatlona  And  further 
it  i*  enacted  and  agreed  that  jf  anle  of  the  saidc  two  wardeiu  *o«  bciag  appointed 
uid  elected  doe  neglecie  iheir  ilnette  in  gntheringe  upp  tbdr  (ynu  yf  anie  happen 
or  cbaunce  to  be  01  duo  oniitt  anas  pcmon  tor  payeinc  liia  fync  or  fynea  yf  dus  proofa 
thereof  bo  made  within  their  hcare  ihni  etrcris  Riich  vnrdcn  or  wardant  wa  dodn^  to 
forfcti  for  ererie  tyme  so  ofTeDdinE  ax*  tbone  balfe  to  the  chamber  and  thuthcr  halfc 
to  th«  Mido  occupation  And  fartberrnore  it  it  ngrrtd  and  enacted  Ihat  Iheie  ahalbe 
no«  forr*yn«r  or  tirangirr  of  this  occupation  called  ibe  orcupallan  of  Tauneis  and 
Whittawer*  come  to  this  town  to  sell  anie  manner  of  cloutc  Iclbcr  cuci  into  small 
bendc!!  or  peectsi  but  onelie  at  the  two  fain  aa  be  asrigned  by  the  Charter  of  this 
towoe  In  WitiicM  of  the  premiics  the  Common  Scall  of  the  lowne  of  Northampton 
to  this  preiente  i«  pult   daie  and  yvitrea  4bov«  written  aiini>  r*gR«  ElisabetlM  DCtavu- 

On  Tuesday  in  Easter   week,  15S2,  the  following  town  consti- 
ition  \ra8  enacted  for  the  governance  of  the  whitawers : — 

That  two  masters  be  yearly  chosen  to  oversee  that  thr  hides 
'^and  other  ware  set    for  sale  be    lawful   and    suflicient,  and   that   if 
the    master  find   any    insufficient,  the  party  offending  sliall  forfeit 
lie  thiuR  so  set  for  sale. 

That  none  of  the  craft  shall  obstinately  disobey  or  rebuke   the 
laster  tinder  penalty  of  3s    4d.,  with  imprisonment  until  paid. 

That  no  foreijfner  of  the  craft  shall  openly  buy  nor  sell  anything 
belonging  to  the  craft  in  the  town,  save  at  the  fairs  of  St.  George 
3d  St.  Hugh. 

That  no  tanners  shall  cast  any  dead  horse,  mare,  or  gelding,  or 
\y  hog,  dog,  or  other  such  carrion  on  the  streets,   ways,  ditches, 
)r  any  ground   of  the  town  save   in  the    Marehold,   under  penalty 
3s.  4d. 

That  the  master  shall  yearly  between  March  6th  and  April  4th, 
}ur^'  the  bones  that  have  been  cast  in  the  Marehold,  under  penalty 
3f  3"-  4d. 


S9S 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RKCORDS. 


That  any  whitawer  killing  any  horse,  marc,  or  gelding,  or 
other  beast  within  the  streets,  lanes,  or  common  vvaj-s  of  the 
town,  or  anywhere  save  in  the  Marthold,  shall  be  fined  68.  8d. 

That  the  master  shall    pay  yearly  at  the  feast  of    St.  Luke, 
Uie  mayor  68.  Sd.  for  this  their  constitution. 

That  ail  fines  be  divided  between  the  chamber  and  the  craft. 

At  an  assembly  held  in  June,  of  the  same  year,  it  was  a^rreed 
"that   the  Whittawers   shall    remove  their  usuall  standinges,  and 
ishall    from    thenceforth  with  their  stalles  slande  (in)  the    Channel!^ 
in  Ihc   drapcrye  as  the   glovers    doc   and    hegyn  their  stalles 
standinges    close    to    the    K'fvers    stalles    or  standinge*    Providcdl 
always  that  it  shall   and    maye  be  lawfull    to  and  for  Henry  Trott 
of  the  saide  townc  of  Northampton  whittawcr  to  have  occupye  and 
use  the  shoppe  which  he  now  usethe  being  parcell  of  the  tenement 
in  the  tenure  of  Richard  Benlley." 

At  the  same  assembly  it  was   agreed   that  (although   a  consti- 
tution  had  been  granted    to  the    whitawers  for  the  expelling  andl 
keeping  out  of  strangers  on  market  days)  William  Smythe,  James 
Stormcr,  and  Henry  Lacke  were  to  be  permitted  for  their  lives  to 
use  the  markets,  and  to  have  liberty  to  buy  or  sell  there,  on  each 
of  them    paying   to  the   chamber  203.     This   precedent  of   special  | 
cxemplion  was  followed  by  the  assembly  in  1596,  in  the  eases  ofJ 
Robert    Stormcr,    of    Dalliugton,    and    William    Grumblcy,    of] 
Harleston. 

In  1606  it  was  agreed  and  ordered  by  the  assembly  "That' 
the  Tanners  o(  this  Corporation  upon  paicmcnt  of  the  sumc  of 
fourtte  shillings  which  they  are  in  arreraycs  shall  have  a  oewej 
constitution  with  suche  orders  as  they  shall  think  fitl  for  the  better 
govcrment  of  their  companle  and  as  their  counccll  shall  advise  tbem 
to  be  agreable  with  the  lawes  of  this  land  lor  and  upon  the  oMe 
Rent  accustomablie  pai<ie  for  the  same." 

At    the    October  assembly,    i66g,    it    was  stated  that  William  j 
Knight,  a  tanner,  of  Althorp,  a  foreigner  and  no  freeman,  had  lately ' 
in  open  market  bought  on   several   Saturdays,  several   raw  hides 
of    foreign    butchers,  contrarj'  to  the   orders,  customs,  and  consti- 
tutions of    the   town  of    Northampton,  and  that  these  hides,  being      1 
both    foreign  bougltt  and    foreign    sold,  were  forfeited,  seized,  andfl 
sold   by  Mr.  William  Wallis   and    Mr.  Edward  Ivory,  the  bailiffs,  " 
accordinjj  to  ancient  usage  and  custom.     It  was  further  stated  (hat 
William   Knight  had  commenced  a  suit  at  common  law  against 


1 

:ed 

Jid 
lell^ 

ledfl 
ott" 

id 

)t 

4 

i 
t 

1 

I 

I 


THE    TOWN    TRADKS. 


399 


:  bailiffs,  and  it  was  resolved  by  the  assembly  to  support  the  bailiffs 
in  resisting  the  action. 

Tlie  cause  came  on  for  trial  at  the  Northampton  assizes  in  1670, 
and  the  judge  ordered  the  case  to  be  referred.  William  Kn^ht, 
liowe%'er,  became  "sensible  af  his  error,"  and  instead  of  perse- 
vering in  the  action,  petitioned  the  corporation  to  be  admitted  as 
a  freeman.  At  an  assembly  held  in  September,  1671,  William 
Knight  made  due  submission,  and  promised  to  purchase  the  hides 
again  of  the  bailiffs,  whereupon  it  was  ordered  that  he  be  admitted 
a  freeman  at  such  rates  as  the  mayor  and  alderman  shall  dclermiae. 

In  1708  the  tanners  petitioned  the  assembly  to  stop  George 
Morgan,  of  Slaplon,  and  Joseph  Toms,  of  Kings  Sutton,  country 
tanners,  from  buying  great  quantities  of  cow  hides  in  open  market, 
'  to  the  breach  of  the  freedom  of  this  town.  The  tanners  slated  they 
had  gathered  ^10  towards  ihe  legal  prosecution  of  the  offenders, 
and  asked  the  help  and  support  of  the  assembly  in  prosecuting  the 
case.    The  petition  was  granled. 

Innkoloers,  Brewehs,  and  Maltsters. 

This  sub-beading  ha^  been  kept  to  the  last,  as  it  docs  not 
technically  refer  to  a  trade  of  the  same  fashion  as  those  that  have 
been  already  considered.  The  special  nature  of  the  undertaking 
becomes  obvious  when  it  is  recollected  that  there  are  not  only 
hundreds  of  national  statutes  for  its  regulation,  but  that  at  the  time 
when  the  local  authorities  had  far  more  power  than  at  present, 
the  selling  of  beer  and  tlie  regulation  of  inns  was  more  prolific  in 
producing  ever-changing  and  fluctuating  bye-laws  than  all  other 
town  trades  put  feather.  Northampton  is  no  exception  to  this 
rule,  and  is  a  striking  illustration  of  the  summary  suppression  of 
public  houses  for  the  public  good  that  took  place  from  time  to  time. 

The  first  point,  however,  that  comes  out  from  these  town 
records  with  regard  to  licensing,  has  no  reference  to  popular 
control,  but,  contrariwise,  to  the  highly  exceptional  if  not  unique 
exercise  of  royal  will  in  overriding  all  statute  or  local  law. 

On  January  20th.  1557.  Mr.  James  Balgey,  the  mayor,  enrolled 
in  the  order  book  of  the  assembly,  at  the  request  of  William 
Symcotes.  of  Huntingdon,  innholder,  a  remarkable  royal  charter  or 
letters  patent.  It  is  a  grant  by  Philip  and  Mary,  addressed  to  all 
mayors,   sherifTs,   bailiffs,   constables,   and  other  officers,   to  their 


300 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


well  beloved  subject,  William  Synicotes,  o(  lIunliDgdon.  bu^uiiler. 
of  a  ten  years'  license — 

At  bit  pkuuK.  in  wlwt  Cotiktk  loc^tr  it  b«,  to  >i«r«  use  «cc«pr«  xni  h^ 

Tnverne  at  TtttrotM  by  hJmwIS  or  hi*  •ervaetet  lo  utin-  and  nJI  b;  ReaH  w  b 
CrD»t«  an;  kyiule  o(  irine  or  vrine*  at  his  raait  prallit  ronxxliiiB  And  <d«Min|«  l» 
be  spent  or  drank  in  hit  nunaioa  howw  or  howMt  or  cJMwhcAr  in  >n;  pUc*  «tUaM' 
any  nuonct   ul   let  impediement   laue   foifdture    damage  or  pen^li*  to  be 
dccnAuadnd  or  Msleyned  of   him  itir  the  same  The  Act  ahiI  Statvle   nutk  Is 
ScTvmhr  ytre  of  the  R«igne  ofF  oure  late  desren  braibcr  King*  Bdmtdv  Ite 
prahibiiinj[«  ihc  liavinge  iiid  Mllinge  of  wiaes  or  abj  other  Uiln^  tbercto  cmrtd 
or  an/  other  act  or   law    ordiiuinee   proc lunation  or   Rc*iraiol    by    e* 
luflilc  or  proclaymed  to  the  contrarie  notwilhttandinge. 

The  patent  is  daled  April  4th,  1555. 

Further  on,  in  the  same  book  of  orders,  is  a  copy  of  (ike  royil 
letters  patent,  though  of  a  more  extended  character,  granted  jiisl 
a  year  later  by  Philip  and  Mary.  The  license  recites  that  "  We 
of  oure  Graces  esp<:ciall  certaine  knowledge  and  raere  tDOtin 
and  for  that  we  be  crediblye  enformed  that  oure  lovinge  sul^ecte 
Henry  Manley  of  Northampton  vintner  is  licensed  by  the  najrof 
of  the  saide  towne  to  occupie  and  kepe  a  Taverne  and  to  tell  wyne 
by  Retaile  and  hathe  not  any  other  way  of  Ijn-inge  but  fay 
rctnilingc  of  wine,"  grant  lo  the  said  Henry  Manley  for  his  Uk 
free  permisfioo  to  trade  in  wine  by  himself  or  his  servants  \» 
any  tAvem  or  taverns  or  oth«r  places  he  pleucf  throocluMi 
England. 

U  was  enacted  by  the  assembly  in  156S.  that  "no  Inlioldcr^ 
nor  vyntcner  nor  none  that  kepithe  any  tiplinge  hou*c  maylciM^| 
or  kepe  any  Company  in  Cher  hawses  Id  the  time  of  CotnmiTe  ^ 
Prayer  or  Sermones  upon  the  SaboUie  day  oc  any  other  fc*ti\»ll 
doies,"  under  a  penalty  of  iid.  to  the  boas«keeper,  and  id.  ap: 
to  any  of  the  cooipany.    Any  fines  were  to  be  divided  into  tJi 

pans,  between  the  poor  nuji'i;  box,  the  cfiuaberond  t"--  jier. 

A  tnvvUer's  exception  <la«»e  follows  iJiis  order: — "  I'r  lhh 

it  shalbc  lawfull  for  th«  Irtnholdcrs  sod  others  to  ^ve  inlrct 
ment  unto  (ravclcrs  that  trarailc  by  the  »-ay  " 

.\II  ale  brewers  wrrc  ordered  by  the  assembly,  to  1575,  to 
their  ale  for  xs.  4d.  a  dozen  <galloa»>.  aad  tbe  "  typler  "  for  at. 
a  doieo,  by  Mated  measure.    All  tliat  told  strong  ale  wcfc  l< 
a  quart  (or  a  penny,  by  scaled  med»ure,  and  all  inabolden  to 
tbeir  ale  aod  be«r  a  quart  foe  a  pcnay.  by   K&kd  nmnuc    T 
i&MK  the  carT>*iag  out  of  thi*.  it  was  provided  "  that  creiy 


THE  TOWN   TRADES. 


301 


ftt  can  and  mil  present  anj*   defaultes  shall   have  sijd  Eor  bis 
>r  and  the  pot-" 

The  orders  for  June  16th,  1570,  recUe  that — 

Wli«»eas  tin  gnau  bruan  within  the  toirn*  of  Nonhtan  ai  Utr  have  fatkn  in 

by  rauoa  of  ihc  gnaie  multiiudc    of  oibcr  bmarj   frithin  ihc  nrne  called 

pdtit  hntara,  tvpling*    howw*,  or  alvhowMs,  who  Bcilh«r  npri   anyu    nor  any 

ottmr  re«»oiubla  prife  nor  goode  oiiler  hvpt  nMlMAlnd  in  (l>ctr  Imwscs  by  rcaiofi 

ol  lfa«tr  *troace  tlrinks,  but  rulwr  tnaiMain  dnttcknd*  and  Idle  ifcciutDu*  p«noB» 

ih#  dr*p(MRinB  (if  almightic  god    snd    onDpyance  of   Ibe  («n»nun  w«:ilthe,  Fer 

itirmnlion  tbcrnif  it  ii  tirddyncd  conclikled  AU  DO   pcnon  ur  pcnancs  lLcepiii|^ 

«lc  l>oir««  or  lyplrnfpe  h«wM  within  tka  tairn«  t4  N'ortlilua  abaU  mII  *njr  b«rc  or  aI* 

w4ihla  ihe>r  b«my*  lo  iny  prraon  or  |irrtore»  of  their  owrM:  bruing  at  any  time  or 

liiBC*  afin  tbe  feaxt  of  S.  Jatncs  (he  Pottle  nc*(  en9«io|;,  Prorydcd  alwsics  that  it 

tlull  and  miy  be  lawful  (or  tbe  alphowte  lcFp«r  to  bni*  al*  or  b«r*  aad  to  tunne 

QwU;  and  setl    tlw  mcik    by   itie  docen    or   halfe  dosen  a>  the  gruie  bruart  dotbe 

And  that  luch  pric«  and  prlcaa  uponpaiaeof  everyone  making  detaulte  to  forfaite 

XX*  10  lb*  UM  of  the  rowne  chamber  and  fiitthet  ptinithmmt  at  the  iiKndam  of 

(be    mayor. 

This  order  was,  however,  discharged  on  February  23rd,  1571. 
The  privy  council  issued  general  orders  throughout  England,  to 
July,  1577,  for  full  returns  of  the  names  of  those  who  were  licensed 
as  beepers  of  taverns,  inns,  and  alehouses  both  in  town  and  country. 
ir  detnand  for  these  returns  were  addressed  lo  the  lieutenants 
''of  the  respective  counties,  and  the  Honfiestic  Slate  Papers  supply 
complete  lists  from  many  of  the  shires,  including  the  boroughs, 
loithampton  was,  however,  sufficiently  independent  to  decline  lo 
■n  '  -^-.v  returns  save  through  her  own  chief  magistrate.  The 
I  of  the  county  sent  in  his  certificate  on  November  and, 
ivtng  a  total  of  S  taverns,  30  inns,  and  400  alcbotises  thrtnigbout 
shire,  "  hriides  the  Towne  of  Northampton  wherewith  we  have 
Knot  nwdled  fur  thai  the  maior  of  the  *>an)e  Town  answeretb  thai 
h«  by  hymself  will  make  certificate  unto  your  honors  of  the  true 
notnber  thereof."     t'nfortunatcly,  the  mayor's   return   is  not  to  be 

I  found  either  at  the  Public  Record  ofl^ce  or  among  the  town  records. 
It  ■eems.  however,  from  other  sources  and  comparisons,  that  the 
probable  number  of  inns  and  alehouses  at  this  time  in  Northampton 
uul  its  liberties  was  about  eighty. 

1^^  Tbe  great  brewers,  in  the  spring  of  157S,  pciitioned  (or  a 
^Koostttutiao,  and  that  the  petty  alehouses  should  not  brew,  but 
^K)bt&iii  supplies  from  their  bigger  brethrea.  The  assembhr  there- 
^KBpon  cnnscntcd  to  the  great    brewers'  request    for   a   coostitation, 


te-; 


304 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


dutta  and  in  olwdiena  of  ytf  hanon  lr«c  have  inppTVMcd  to  the  Domber  c4  e 
aIchow:<et  within  this  libeitie,  which  niiinbiir  wee  (yniie  maye  bee  well  s(»<rcd  in  thb 
corponflon  and  accordinse  to  the  statute  in  that  b^hAtfo  have  bound  *otam  of  ihos 
from  Ticlulllnge  which  aithcnce  out  inch  supprenion  liavc  eaiyoi  them  aelvcs 
obstloat,  and  alicc  hare  and  doe  oui  bcsl  .ind  conlynunll  indcvoun  to  keepe  the 
othtr  ■upptcswd  In  obedience  to  thelro  such  tuppmslon,  and  herewith  hiv«  procund 
a  {encrall  tnudcii-con  uf  the  aUcngih  of  bcarc  and  ale  of  such  1nk«cper» 
vtetuaUra  as  doe  itil!  conlynewv  which  we  have  bbored  lo  doe  not  onlle  by  ifivi 
thAiti  exprcMC  charge  to  doe  «oe,  but  also  by  iiapcralng  of  (ynea  upon  the  offend, 
accotdiriKG  to  hia  liighn«>  ljiw>  and  f(atut«»  of  this  Roalme.  Of  all  which  hntnbl' 
cnvint;  your  honorable  good  .icc«plancc  with  our  hanic  prayers  for  yo'  honi 
heallhc  and  bappicMsscs,  wc  humblte  lahc  our  teSTcs,  And  real, 

Youf  honora  must  humlile  lo  be  comaundod, 

Rirhard  Woollaaton.  tnaier. 
North'  Che  8  of  Tho^  Cowper 

March   l633.  Raphaell   Humfrye 

Althou{;h  the  reduction  of  tlie  alehouses  was  brought  about  at 
the  instigation  of   the  privy  council    in  1622,  two  yrars   later 
town  took  strong  action  on  its  own  initiative.     If  our  estimate 
eighty  for  all  the  licensed  houses  of  1577  is  correct  (and  it  probabl; 
errs  on   the    side    of   understating   rather    than   the  contrary), 
follows    that    the   second    reduction    of    thff    houses,    after    maki 
allowance  for  their  increase  during  fifty  years,  would  considcrabl; 
exceed  the  reduction  of  1622 ;  it  would  propahly  mean  that  at  le: 
twenty-five  house*  were  then  suppressed. 

The  following  is  a  ropy  of  the  strongly  worded  order  of  asscmbl 
passed  on  October  t+th,  1624  :— 

Whorus  not  withstand  in  ji  many  good  lawvs  and  itatiitw  madf  against  AlekowMS 
the  number  of  ihcm  within  this  libertie  are  cxcewire.  ti  being  a  r^mmon  practbt 
that  many  inhabitant}  within  this  corporation  havinj;  other  comtncndable  tradci 
wherein  ihey  are  trayned  and  hTou{;hi  tip,  doe  leave  their  saide  Imdes.  uud  by 
nM»n«  obiaine  tyccnsc  of  the  Mayor  and  Justices  o(  thii  Corporailofi  to  Imp 
AIehows«a  by  T«ason  whereof  the  number  of  them  arc  so  greate  that  they  ate  Nty 
burdensome  and  burlfull  10  thia  Corporation,  and  (hereby  the  horrible  and  loaihsooe 
sinrie  of  drunclccones  ducth  dvylie  incr«>»«  lo  t)i«  dishonour  of  God,  tli*  impovef- 
ithing  oi  thit  lowne  and  oommon  wealthr,  and  to  the  grvat  abTi«n  at  Gods  crralurct 
ordcyticd  for  the  necessary  use  of  man,  and  thereby  Ukcwi.ie  the  sinne  of  Whoredom 
and  Idlenes  are  much  crepte  into  this  Corporation,  and  the  ancient  Inoes  within  ihli 
libcriie  being  anciently  erected  (or  the  necosaiy  n»c  thereof  and  for  the  grace  c/ 
the  Niidc  Corporation  are  much  decayed;  It  is  therefore  for  reformntioD  of  the 
saide  number  of  Ale  howset  and  of  the  salde  abuses  ordered  and  ordeyned  by  liie 
Common  CounoeU  of  this  libeitye  that  the  Ale  h«w»tt  within  ib\a  Corporsliea, 
shalbe  presently  restnyned  to  the  number  herenfter  specified,  and  that  iheje  abiU 
not  be  hereafter  lyceosed  by  the  Mayor  and  Juxtiocs  of  this  Corporation  above  lh« 


I 


Tlie   TOWN    TRADES. 


305 


of  foftye  lid  f^ve  In  the  whole  townc.  And  thai  not  Majwr  and  Justices  of 
:  wiliun  thb  IibtrtJo  shtll  hvrenftet  lyccaie  or  p«frnUt,  and  or  tuRtt  ftny  Alebfrwte 
anj  ui  Ibe  taida  «anlM  above  the  uide  namber  coatnrle  10  ihc  tnie  ■aeairinja  ol 
^i£iMnae,  And  that  yt  anjr  Mavor  or  Justices  shall  hereafter  iToeose  above  the 
««mb«,  thai  tben  rrety  eiKbe  Mayer  aad  Junin  of  pear*  doeing  to  tka 
havof,  and  thalhe  thereof  be  preieoted  and  found  faulty  at  any  lesniona  of 
peace  teat  or  CoHite  daye  <*tthin  thi»  tibertic  shall  (orfeite  to  the  Mayvr 
and  burgvMM  of  tills  Corporaiion  the  (unio  of  Founye  Pounda*.  tlie  aama 
hs  biy  iW  wide  Corporation  Iniployed  the  one  moietie  ihercoi  to  the  use  of  Ihc 
r,  and  (be  other  balfe  thereof  to  such  charitable  >ms  »  by  the  Common 
elt  d  thu  CoTpcration  ihalbe  ltiooi{hl  Sti.  And  that  the  btirgmcsthal  herdofore 
ibone  Uayot  or  bereaftei  ahalbe  Mayor  or  any  of  ih«  Baylifiei  or  rortic  Kighl  shall 
ai  any  ir  uv  hafealier  move  ijieake  lo  nr  (lerauade  the  mayor,  Juctiots  (or  the  time  being 
of  this  libcrtie  or  any  ol  tbrm  for  the  mcttnce  eelilriKO  up,  lycenalnge  or  allovingv  of 
■nt  A VhawavAbove  tha  nomber  before  lymited  in  thia  pr«icntc  ordinanoe  upon  paiae  of 
■rerir  o><*  ifa:ii  )i-tth  beaa  Mayor  or  «T«rte  Buri;e«t  bcinge  or  which  thall  herea/ter  he 
of  ihe  Ci'nin><>n  Counoell  docin^c  10  the  contrsrie  of  thin  Ordinance,  and  >h«lbe 
penrMeil  and  iherwf  found  guilty  as  afontsaid  lo  forfeit  Fyve  PonndM  to  liie  salde 
loamc  lo  ihc  uses  afomdid.  And  yt  ia  abo  ordered  that  it  shalbe  tawfull  for  the 
Oumfceftaloes  of  Ihi*  Corporation  by  warranie  voder  the  Common  Seale  «f  ibis 
bWnie  tti  levye  the  salde  sevcrall  penjIiiM ...  by  dbtresse .  .  .  Ami  ri  is  (nitlier 
onlerrd  lliJt  (ram  hencefourth  noc  inhabiianii  kccpingc  or  ibat  shall  kccpe  Ale- 
hou<«*  within  this  liherli*  ahalbr  chuaea  telo  (he  Company  of  Ihe  Fortle  Htgitt  of 
tite  Common  Cnnnrvll  of  thia  tniime,  nor  into  ante  office  of  Chamberlaine  BAyiille 
ConstsUc  Titiidboroiiiih  or  aaic  other  office  within  the  said  Corporation  But  that 
an  AiAcnite  keepen  by  wertue  hereof  shall  from  hencefourth  be  ii(ti>r1y  disabled 
(■'•m  t)e*rlnge  any  oIKcr  whatsoever  within  thu  tibirrric.  And  if  any  of  the  Fourtie 
Cighl  shall  kt«p«  AWhouse  then  he  ihall  Ipso  facto  uppoo  prMcntment  thereof  by 
thr  Cmmuhle  of  that  warde  to  the  Msyor  be  disabled  to  be  any  of  tJic  Ponrtie 
i-.a^t  ,  .  .  And  yl  is  finally  ordered  that  noe  alehonse  keepers  or  Ticiuallcr  bereafler 
t^  '7r  :i"rii^M  vTthin  ihi(  HbrrtiV  sbnil  at  any  lime  hereafter  erecte  or  aett  up  any 
Si|;'ir   Hiir..>iii  the  cunscnl  of  the  Mayor  ami  justices. 

Tlib  very  stringent  attempt  on  the  part  of  tlic  assembly  to 
fetter  the  action  oF  the  licetising  authorities  o(  the  future  is  not  a 
Uttte  remarkable. 

At  the  next  assembly,  held  on  November  4tb,  1624,  the  question 
of  Sunday  clcksing  was  discussed,  witli  the  result  that  the  following 
orders  were  enacted  : — That  no  taverner,  innkeeper,  alehouse krteper, 
or  other  rictuallcr  shall  Veep  their  doors  open  on  Sabbath  day 
during  the  time*  of  divine  scrWcc  prayers  or  preachings,  under  a 
penally  of  31.  4d. :  and  that  none  of  tlie  said  tavemcrs,  etc..  shall 
hereafter  suffer  their  gates  to  stand  open  at  any  time  of  the  Sabbath 
day  until  six  o'clock  in  tlie  evening,  other  than  tbeir  wickets  and 
their  gates  10  let  in  guests  hordes,  under  a  like  penalty. 

V 


306 


NURTHAHPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


It  was  reported  to  Uie  assembly  on  December  J41H,  1644,  tktt 
Thomas  Holland,  landlord  of  the  George,  was  much  inlniiling  m 
the  liberties  of  Lbe  town,  inasmuch  as  he  was  not  a  f recir  " 
was  using  the  trade  of  a  vintner,  and  kecpinji  a  tavern  u.  „ 
retailing  of  wtncs  without  the  corporation's  consent,  whercbr  he 
had  incurred  diverse  penalties  Thomas  Holland,  however,  made 
submission  to  the  assembly,  and  he  was  permitted  to  continue  tni 
trade  until  March  35th,  when  he  promised  to  pay  £to  for  the 
town's  use. 

In  Hall's  manuscript,  under  the  year  1653.  it  is  stated  that  the 
mayor  for  that  year  '*  supprcst  many  Victualling  Houses,  and  aU 
Inns  and  Alehouses  were  compelled  to  sell  their  best  Drink  far  a 
Quart  a  penny  both  within  Doors  and  without ;  the  Crier  was  ml 
twice  round  the  Town  in  one  Day  to  cry  the  same  " 

In  1676  the  assembly  ordered  that  no  person  for  the  future  dull 
be  permitted  to  sell  ale,  especially  m  the  Chequer  ward,  onlcs 
they  own  such  houses  as  arc  able  to  entertain  horse  and  man,  witli 
stables  adjoining,  suitable  for  the  entertainment  of  travellers.  Tlw 
mayor  and  justices  were  to  forfeit  £5  each  if  titey  liceoscd  houses 
not  thus  qualified. 

In  1764,  ctghtcenpence  was  paid  "for  Beer  far  the  Serjeants  oa 
their  going  round  to  all  the  publick  Houses  and  dtschargine 
Gameing." 

The  following  is  a  list  of  all  those  inns  and  alehouses  (and  only 
those)  that  we  have  found  tn  the  sixteenth  and  seventeenth  cental^ 
leases,  and  other  records  of  the  town.  In  two  or  three  cases  ' 
are  unable  to  give  the  streets  where  they  were  situated.  The 
letter  "  a  "  prefixed  to  a  sign  means  that  it  was  one  of  the  twehie 
ancient  inns  of  the  assembly  orders  of  1585  :— 


a  Angtl  (Baigt  S\.) 

But  (Uearwaii]  St.) 
4  B«U  (BrUIse  St.) 

Kslwp  BlstM  {.Market  S<)<w«) 

Bi»ek  Boy  <WoedhilI} 

Bbdc  Lion  (By  Sl  Peier'«  oliiird*) 

BUc  Boat  (Hurlnt  a^oan) 

Uooc  (College  IJine) 
a  Bull  (next  iJodt  to  lira  Ge«rge} 

Ch«|ow  (M»rlitt  S^UBiw) 

Cock  (AbingtoK  St.) 

Cmiui  (Soulk  Brid|c) 

Ctou  Kmt*  (North  St.) 


Crown  (WwdWIl) 
■  Dolt»Mn  (Gold  Sl) 
Dragon  (St.  Mary  St.) 
Drumi  (Dnm  Lane) 
Dtiric  and  Dnin 
Ea^U  and  Cblld  (Sl  Cllaa  St.) 
Eh^AaM  and  CaatU  (Ete|».Sant  Lbm) 
Pakofl  (Nevlaad) 
FbMw  (AbiogtoM  Sl.) 
Plyint!  I1an«  (MaikM  Sqtan) 
Poise  (St.  Giles  Su) 
a  Ceofg*  (Geoi^'a  Row) 
Goat  (Gold  St.) 


THE    TOWN    TRADES. 


307 


Men  CroM  (St.  Marlin  St.) 

Oldett  PiMce  (Qridfc  St.) 

4den  Lion 

'Cntn  Mount  (St  Edmumb  End) 

Gran  Tree 

Green  Man  (St.  Jamei  End) 

«  Green  Drngon  (Benrmtrd  St.) 

Greyhound  (Woolmonget  St.) 

GrUBo  (Gold  S(.) 

Guy  ot  Warwi<;k  (Smith  Gwe) 

Half  Moon  (Between  South  Gate  and 
Bridge) 

Harp  (Ktngswell  St,) 
a  Hart  or  H!nd)  Mirliet  Square) 

M«n  and  Cbjckeiia  (Abington  St.) 
a  K.iihnriiie  Wheel  (Gold  St.] 

Kidgs   HtJtd   (Horwnarkcl) 

Lamb  and  Kla£  (KJnf^weil  Si.) 
Liun  and  Lamb  (Bridge  Si.) 
a  Uon  (Draperv) 

Majrote    (Belwecn    South     Gale    and 


Red  Com 

Red  Lion  (Horvemarket) 

Rou  (Gold  St.) 

Rom  and  Crown  (Nfaiket  Square) 

SalMTs  Inn  (Abinfjton  St.) 
a  Sallett  or  Helmet  (Cow    I.ane) 

Satacen't  Head  (Market  Square) 

Spread   Ragle 

St»gf  He.id  fAbinjion  S«) 

Star  (Abinglryn   Si.) 

Swan  (DemgMe) 
a  Swan  (Drapery) 
a  Talbat  (Market  Square) 

Tdbord  (Woolmong;cr  St.) 

Tabard   (Cotton  End) 

Three  Pigeon*  iSt.  Jahni  Lane) 

Three  Tun*  (Market  Sniiare) 

Trumpet  (HorMtnarket) 

Unicorn 

Wheat  Sheaf  (BHdge  St.) 

White  Beair 

White  Horae  (Matehold) 

White  Lion   (Abinj;lon  Sl) 

Woolpnrk  (Bridge  S*.) 


BrWjce) 
Pescork   (Market  Square) 
Quart  Po[  (Qtj^rt  Pot  Lane) 
Ram  (Shcepmorkct) 

■  BK.NEPACTIONS  FOR    PoOR  TRADESMEN. 

The  great  share  that  Northampton  had  and  still  has  in  the 
loans  of  the  muiiificent  Sir  Thomx'*  White,  is  de-vribed  at  some 
lenRth  in  another  section. 

Two  other  intended  helps  of  a  like  character,  on  a  mwch  smaller 
scale,  for  reduced  tradesmen  of  Northampton  arc  cited  in  the  first 
order  book  of  the  assembly. 

The  following  extract  from  the  will  of  Edward  Cluier,  citizen 
and  grocer  of  London,  proved  on  July  j  ttb,  1393,  is  copied  into 
the  order  book. 

Item  I  (rive  and  beqoeathc  ihe  sume  of  founic  powndea  more  10  be  paide  and 
diliynd  to  Ibc  maior,  bailiSs,  and  bnr^ius  of  the  towne  of  Northampton  whetre 
I  wsa  borne,  wilfain  «ixe  nronlbeit  itezt  alter  my  drceaiie,  for  the  maintainin);  of 
poore  Handy  craftennen  in  the  said  lowne,  that  yt  to  mjw  Cordwainen.  Uiylois, 
piemen,  carpenters,  unhheti.  udten.  bricklaiera,  and  weyvera  that  yn  to  aayc  the 
Mk)  sume  of  Focrlle  potrndes  lo  lie  divided  into  eiilvt  cquall  partes  of  Fyve  powndcs 
■  peace,  and  to  be  «en(  and  d^liTered  unto  elffhl  poore  hotisholden,  handycrafte*. 
men  and  of  the  occiipationi  aforcHidv,  that  yir  10  xayc.  to  one  ttirhe  poore  man  of 
erer^  tbe  tame  occupations  the  seme  of  (ire  powndes  a  peece  (or  the  tymc  and 
apace  of  two  jream  upon  their  tnfficient  bondes,  urlth  sureties  for  the  repaJement  af 

V  a 


3oS 


>R'nfAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


rvcri*  sache  fiv»  povndcf  at  the  »>dc  two  7<Garcs  endc.  And  that  attcr  of  «vcrie 
of  the  unw  two  yeares  Uialbe  ceded  lo  be  tent  and  deJirared  to  eight  other  luche 
poor  bousholden)  that  ys  to  uyc  lo  evvie  one  of  tbem  fire  pownde»  a  peeoe  (or 
olhftr  two  yeares,  And  *o«  aft«t  tliat  ton  aod  ord«r  to  continue  (or  crcf  for  the 
bcDcfilt  and  letiffe  <A  poore  meo  of  the  Mide  occapacioBs.  within  the  nkle  loirne, 
npon  •ucbf  bondoa  •i>d  lurvtiv*  to  hn  gjven  tncl  put  lo  b/  evori*  *ucb«  poor*  in«n 
in  foniw  afar«»aidc,  ^and  for  irant  of  suflicient  choir*  of  poor  bandecntftetmeii  uf 
the  a«ide  occupacions,  within  itic  saide  towne,  then  to  be  lent  to  poor  Liadi- 
cnftMmen  of  anic  othrr  occupsdons  within  the  uida  town  at  the  diwrecton  of  the 
meiof  hailifTes  and  burgctics,  for  luchc  lymc  and  upon  such  bondcs  aod  sureties 
as  jv  aforesaide,  and  the  itaidc  ci|j;ht  poorc  men  to  paje  to  the  Miile  tnaior,  boilifies, 
and  burgesMs  at  Ihende  of  tuch  two  yeares  five  shlttiogs  a  peece  towards  the  relM* 
of  the  poore  of  the  aaidc  towDc  i 

There  is  no  reconl  whether  this  charily  was  ever  dtstributcd,fl 
and  at  all  events  it  has  long  ago  disappeared  ^ 

Immediately  foUon-ing  the  extract  from  this  will  is  the  transcript 
of  another  will,  dated  May  29th,  1607,  by  which   Richard  Elking- 
ton  left  to  the  corporation  of  Northampton  £50,  for  the  purpose  of 
lending    j^io   apiece    to  five    pour    artiticers   Of  tradesmen   of  thi 
town  for  the  term  of  one  year.    The  vicar  and  churchwardens  wer 
to  nominate  on  Saint  Andrew's  day,  and  the  loons  to  be  made 
St.  Thomas'    day,  and    entered    by  the  town   clerk    in    the    book 
of  orders. 

Accordingly,  the  following  entry  comes  after  the  will : — 

Thets  perM>ni  oho^e  n^mes  and  sirnames  liereafter  entnte,  |Dhn  Balgayc,  baslo^ 
John  FTahcr  baberdashcr,  William  Dukca  cardmnkcr,  WHliaRi  StuiMy  taoneT,  4ad 
Thomas  Oxmond  haberdaaher,  all  poore  tradesmen  and  inhnbitantc*  within  the  said 
townc  of  Norihcmpton  were  noinynatcd  by  Rutx'n  Cutlyn  minister  of  th*  pariah 
Oiureti  at  All  Sainctet  in  th«  Mide  town*,  Htnty  Toad  and  Henry  Sillesbi* 
church vr.ird cm  uf  the  Mine  pariih  to  the  right  wonhipful  Edward  Hcnsman  maior 
of  the  iuiitle  townc  in  and  uppun  the  Eeaate  dsye  of  St.  Aodrcwe  the  appostle  Anne 
dnl  1607  to  have  Tonne  powndn  apooca  of  the  ssido  legacie  cf  FIftie  powndes  for 
one  jreare  according  to  the  tcnot  of  the  Inst  will  and  testament  of  the  >aldc  RIch&id, 
Elkington  deceaied. 

In  1608  tlie  loan  was  made  to  two  shoemakers,  a  hosier, 
haberdasher,  and  a  cardmaker;  in  1609  lo  a  hosier,  a  haberdasher, 
a  crlover,  and  an  apothecary;  in  16  to  to  two  shoemakers,  a  tanner, 
a  baker  and  a  glover;  and  in  161 1  to  two  shoemakers,  a  haber- 
dasher, a  glover,  and  a  peM-terer.  Entries  continued  to  be  made 
of  the  names  of  the  recipients  of  this  loan,  year  by  year,  down  10 
1627,  but  the  trades  to  whidi  they  belonged  are  not  cited  after 
161 1.  This  charity  (or  poor  tradesmen  has  also  long  ago 
diKtppeared. 


i 


I 


section   eight. 
Freemen   and  Apprentices. 

Gknskdus  conditions  or  obtainino  the  frbrdom — Orders  of  1553— Various 
Elizabethan  Regulations — List  op  fkbbmrn  from  1561 — Fees  for  the  town 

PREBDOH — A  QUAKER  FREEWOWAN  OF  IJ23 — ThB  SCANDAL  OF  I733— BURGBSS 
BOOKS^ThE  new  charter  op    1796,  AND  RENEWAL    OF    PKEEDOH — FREEDOM    FEES 

IN  1834 — Apprentices  and  covenantbd  servants  from  1561  to  1593— 
Imflbhbnts  or  their  trade  —  Earlier  entries  in  orders  op  asseublv — 
Orders  of  1635 — Later  Regulations. 


\i\ 


FREEMEN    AND    APPRENTICES. 


3tt 


THE    FREEMEN, 


'T'HE  condilions  oi  obtaining  the  freedom  of  an  English  toivii  or 
city,  and  being  thus  enrolled  among  the  burgesses  differed 
to  some  considerable  extent  in  the  various  boroughs.  In  several 
tov\Tis,  notably  Norwich,  the  crafts  insisted  that  the  only  way  to 
the  municipal  franchise  should  lie  through  their  trades'  societies. 
Hence  if  the  craft  masters  of  a  special  guild  rejected  the  applicant 
for  admission  to  their  trade,  it  was  quite  in  vain  for  him  to  attempt 
to  obtain  the  genera!  rights  of  a  burgess. 

Happily  in  Northampton  this  tyrannical  system  did  not  preva.il ; 
the  commonalty  throughout  remained  masters  of  the  trades,  and 
not  the  trades  of  the  commonalty.  Stern  as  was  the  trealmenit  by 
Northampton  of  all  "foreigners'"  (the  householders  of  Kingsthorpep 
Hardingstone.  or  Abington  being  as  much  foreigners  as  Frenchmen 
or  Turks),  there  w.i-s  no  borough  in  England  where  the  opportu- 
nities of  obtaining  the  freedom  were  greater  or  less  restricted. 

The  freedom  of  the  borough  of  Northampton  could  be  acquired 
in  five  ways  :  by  birth,  by  marriage,  by  apprenticeship,  by  purchase, 
and  by  gift. 

All  sons  of  freemen  born  within  the  liberties  after  the  enfran. 
^iscment  of  their  father,  were  entitled  to  the  freedom  on  coming 
of  age.  Freedom  by  apprenticeship  was  acquired  by  servitude  to 
a  freeman  for  seven  years  within  the  borough.  Marriage  with  the 
daughter  of  a  freeman,  born  after  ber  father's  enfranchisement, 
conferred  the  freedom  on  the  husband.  Any  person  dwelling  in  the 
town  could  he  enfranchised  on  payment  of  a  sum  to  be  fixed  by 
the  corporation;  this  sum  varied  much  at  different  periods. 
Occasionally  the  freedom  was  conferred  gratuitously,  as  an  honour, 
or  as  an  cqui%'atent  for  some  service  rendered. 

At  certain  times  in  the  late  history  of  the  town,  it  was  also  the 
practise  to  admit,  as  frccwomcn,  widows  or  daughters  of  laic  free- 
men ;  not  that  the  degree  of  freedom  conferred  any  voting  po^ve^, 
but  it  entitled  them  to  participate  in  municipal  charities. 

Tbc  first  references  in  the  extant  orders  of  as&embly  as  to 
freemen  are  for  the  year  1553. 


3" 


NORTHAMPTON  BOBOUGH  RECORDS. 


The  first  o£  these  refers  to  the  means  used  for  the  recoverf 
from  freemen  of  any  dues  or  fines  imposed  hy  the  touii  authorities  iH 

Item  tE  tlw  chAEnberlAynet  ufce  tuty  duucuc  for  any  dutk  due  W  the  chambjv 
of  ft  ftimehiiusi  man,  m  the  baily*  likewiM  for  Atiy  dutie  due  ODto  Ikem  and  incKb 
dbtrene  be  noli  sett  and  the  mcny  or  ducle  paid  within  a  monthc  after  luche 
dillnwo  t*k<n  lh«  diatrviM  to  b«  prayaed  and  wld  nnd  if  any  tnt>n  (li«n  tb« 
duiia  do  renttajm*  of  Iha  orayung  and  tale,  it  to  be  d«lyver«d  to  tb»  cpwiMr,  and 
that  like  Uwe  to  be  tat  distrttnex  taken  for  anjr  du^  due  to  tlw  marar  (or  vid 
contcttiytig  bis  offica.  ^m 

The  next  entry  shows  that  the  crown  in  the  time  of  Queen  ^ 
Mary  was  levying  a  special  tax  on  the  town  by  the  clever  device 
of  calling  upon  them  to  substantiate  their  liberties  and  show  OQ  ^| 
what  warrant  they  were  held.  The  production  of  their  charters,  ™ 
and  the  fees  demanded  cost  £2^,  and  this  was  levied  on  all  the  ^\ 
freemen.  ^M 

Item  at  this  oucmblc  vrai  auciHcmcnt  of  a\i  fraunchiKd  men  for  to  fine  utito  qoetw 
mary  for  our  libertici  nnd  to  stiaiircrt  ■  <juq  mairamo  that  was  brougfhl  agayn»i  the 
llb«ttlM  whlche  aiiMsnnefit  aniDunled  abovg  xzxr)"  this  ijuu  watranlo  wu  begon  in 
the  lyine  of  Horry  Neel  mayor  and  begon  agaym  before  tlila  assemble  and 
contynuycd  «lyll. 

The  third  reference  to  the  freemen  in  1553  is  not  quite  so  easjr 
to  understand,  but  tliis  seems  to  be  tlie  explanation.  En  common 
with  other  towns,  Northampton  was  particular  in  insisting  on  the 
burgesses  wearing  no  lord's  or  lady's  livery,  but  only  the  town 
livery,  exception  being  always  made  of  any  royal  servant,  This 
order  was  probably  intended  to  prevent  any  freeman  assuming 
some  neighbouring  lord's  livery,  such,  for  instance,  as  that  of 
the  Earl  of  Northampton,  and  thus  escaping  his  share  of  the ' 
gue  itfarranto  fine  then  being  levied, 

ItL-tn  cbat  nu  fraachiwd  niaii  sliutd  wut  &ny  olbcr  m&nt  or  erotnan))  lywry  10  fyne. 
and  to  l«vt  Ihc  lowue  unfyncd  id  tymc  of  ned«  upon  pJlJO*  of  lotyag  of  bif 
Frauachls,  axcept  ytt  bo  tha  kings  or  queny*  Ij^vefy. 

In  the  first  year  of  Elizabeth  there  was  an  evident  desire  to 
encourage  the  residence  of  good  tradesmen  and  even  musicians 
within  the  town,  for  at  the  assembly  held  on  October  13th.  1559, 
it  was  agreed  that  all  manner  of  craftsmen,  that  he  good  workmen, 
such  as  "wcytcs.  fullcis.  tinkers,  carpenters,  hilliars  and  masons" 
should  be  made  free  of  the  borough  for  the  modest  fee  of  20s.  In 
the  margin  the  list  is  amplified  hy  the  addition  of  "and  curriars 
and  joyncrs." 


• 


* 


lEN    AND    APPRENTf< 

In  [564  jL  restriction  was  imposed  upon  all  who  followed  iDore 
than  one  handicraft ;  the  franchise  fee  being  in  such  cases  quad* 
Tupled :  — 

It  U  -tfr^ccd  thm  all  masons,  currlen,  fullm,  carp«ni«n.  joiners,  and  eutlen  shalbe 
madr  free  ot  the  liberties  for  xs'  yi  they  oncupie  ihai  arte  otielj,  or  if  he  occupi*  «n]r 
mor  occitpalion*  then  an«  then  be  to  pay  for  his  (ntunrbim  iiij". 

On  April  Had,  1568,  the  two  following  rcsolulioiia  were 
passed  : — 

That  every  Preeman  sholde  arrest  one  a  other  (or  del  or  otherwise,  by  pronus  {He} 
tad  After  ihM  to  have  ih«lr  doUys  acconUng:<i  id  the  olde  Costome  off  the  taurno^  to 
wit  thr<«  weelce*  and  no  more. 

That  every  Preeman  ihalJ  pjiye  the  olde  Feea  accustomyd,  to  wit  n  penny  to  tke 
Clarlic,  nn<)  ij'  lo  the  ^crjant.  And  th«  (leSandaunt  Ininge  free  and  aimted  shall  fUf 
ilij'  10  wit  ij*  to  Ifaa  hj/lys  and  i)*  to  the  Mrjant. 

At  the  next  assembly,  held  in  the  following  August,  occurred 
an  instance  of  a  butthrr,  who  was  a  freeman,  being  struck  off  ihe 
roll  because  he  had  run  away  and  forsaken  tlie  town.  At  the  same 
time  John  Vcntris,  gentleman,  is  admitted  to  the  freedom,  "on 
paying  but  xl'  to  the  Chamber'"  because  he  was  "a  profitable 
member  of  this  towiic  for  brcwingc  off  bere  atid  ilso  doth  entcnde 
to  serve  the  lowne  oil  ^oude  holsome  bearc  for  man's  body." 

In  156S  is  an  interesting  entry,  which  goes  lo  prove  that  the 
commonalty,  represented  by  all  the  freemen,  were  still  expected  to 
yield  full  obedience  to  the  summons  of  the  mayor  for  any  kind  of 
municipal  duty,  although  no  longer  summoned  en  bioc  to  general 
assemblies.  On  September  16th,  of  that  year,  tlic  following 
resolution   and  preamble  were  entered  in  the  order  book  :— 

for  iumucbe  as  dyrers  obttiiutc  wilfull  and  diwbedient  persons  (contrary  in  iher 
«(li*s  taken  at  the  time  of  their  admbaion  ta  the  (redome  of  this  towne)  do  ne)[l«cte 
tber  diMtie  toward  the  mayor  in  abiMiting  thsmtelves  obstinaily  from  his  presence 
bcingc:  wnmyd  by  an  ofHcer,  and  upon  a  payne  to  come  before  th«  mayor  by  a  ceneti 
tyme  apointed,  and  speci.iJIy  towards  mychelmas,  when  the  mayor  i»  neare  owte  of 
oOce,  Then  they  absent  iheinKlvcs  lyll  the  iiewe  inuyre  be  entiyd,  more  lyke 
banchrowtcs*  ihcn  honest  towneamcn,  to  the  hindcrancc  of  Jiutice  and  £reit  SUundflt 
of  the  towne. 

For  Refofnudon  whereof  yt  ys  condloendid  and  aj^reede  7*hnt  if  Any  man  from 
beniforthe  being*  Free  of  this  lowne  d  Northampton  Shall  obtimllys  wylfully  and 
ituberalye  absent  hymteltf  From  the  mayore  tor  the  time  belnge  havinge  Lawfult 
MBKXia  a*  J*  aforcscide  he  »hsilb«  Acomplcd  nsan  obstynBle  and  a  disobedient  per- 
aoee,  and  shall  paye  for  his  dysobedlenee  vj' viij*  tothe  ate  of  theChambcrand  tobe 


•The  earti  lotm  ot  tbt  word  bankrupt— "bantfcro»M"—wfll  be  o(  Int«<«  te  philologliM. 


3M 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


Comytlcd  to  the  gaole  and  ther  to  cantynue  without  bayk  or  marnprtM  l^U  the  ume 
*]'  Tiij'  be  paide. 

The  penalty  for  absence,  as  originally  written  in  the  order,  was 
that  the  defaulter  was  co  be  disfranchised,  and  only  to  be  readmitted 
on  payment  o(  £4,  and  the  correction,  as  it  stands  above,  was 
made  at  some  later  date. 

This  order  was  evidently  intended  to  be  no  dead  letter.  It  was 
only  made  a  town  bye-law  on  September  17th,  1568,  and  on  Sep- 
tember 28th  it  was  put  in  op^rration.  Oil  the  latter  dale  it  was 
announced  at  an  assembly  thai  one  Thomas  Bishopc.  weaver,  (or 
bis  stubbornness  and  disobedience  to  the  mayor's  simimoDS,  was 
"by  Mr.  John  Br^-an  Mayore  hereby  disfrauncliizcd  from  the 
fredome  of  Northampton,  and  not  to  cnjoyc  any  liberties  of  the 
same  lowne,  but  to  be  accomptcd  as  a  forrj'ner  in  all  Respects, 
any  fredome  or  lybcrties  heretofore  grauntcd  to  the  scj'dc  Bishopc 
in  any  wise  notwithstondingc." 

In  1577  it  was  enacted — 

That  all  men  thnt  be  francheaed  or  do  claitnc  any  (nedoine  within  the  Iowim  of 
Northton  shall  conw  anil  dwell  wltliin  the  townc  and  be  duwne  levdn|;«  and  upe 
ijFtinge  uponfayne  tflbeexpulHd  and  «xclud«d  forcvor.ind  shall  pay  s"  for  3  fyitt 
if  he  beablnand  if  not  thsn  at  the  dtscreiton  of  the  malor  and  his  b[«thren. 

lliis  last  order  was  evidently  only  of  temporary  duration,  in 
the  margin  is  written  vaccit. 

The  tirst  list  of  freemen  is  bound  up  with  the  Brst  series  of 
apprentice  indentures,  which  begin  in  1561. 

The  list  of  freemen,  however,  docs  not  begin  till  1606,  during 
the  m.iyorahy  of  Roger  Hlghani,  when  twenty-one  were  admitted. 
An  apprentice  who  had  fulBlled  his  time  paid  105.;  the  son  of  a 
freeman,  3s.  4d.  The  full  payment  by  an  outsider  of  £$  was  made 
once  this  year  to  the  mayor,  and  in  four  cases  the  port  payment 
of  2os.  A  few  years  later  the  payment  by  an  outsider  was  raised 
to  £10.  The  entries  are  made  year  by  year  in  Laiin  until  1654, 
when  a  new  commonwealth  town  clerk  rendered  them  in  English. 
Occasionally,  the  L.alin  scribe,  with  all  his  readiness  io  the  com.* 
position  of  low  or  dog  Latin,  encountered  a  word  that  he  could 
not  render  in  the  dead  language,  e.g. — "  parchment  maker "'  in 
English  occurs  several  times  in  ihe  midst  of  a  Latinised  sentence; 
"button  maker"  and  "coach  harness  maker,"  also,  had  to  remain 
in  the  vernacular.  When  a  freeman's  son  took  up  his  frecdooi, 
he  was  said  to  do  it  "  jure  natali,"  or  "  by  birthright."     Latin  wu 


I 


I 


FREEMEN    AND    APPRCNTIC&S. 


315 


Bg 


V       tnakci 


I 

I 


again    used   by  the  clerk  on   the    Restoration,  in    1660,  and   was 
continued  to  the  entl  of  the  volume,  in  i728. 

The  following  trades  are  represented  among  the  older  entries  of 

ic  freemen: — apothecarj-,  baker,  barber,  blacksmith,  bookbinder, 
butcher,  button  maker,  carpenter,  chandler,  clothier,  cook,  cooper, 
cordwainer,  cordwinder.  currier,  cutler,  dyer,  fellmonger,  fuller, 
glover,  grocer,  haberdasher,  hilliar,  hosier,  jerseywcavcr,  innholdcr, 
ironmonjier.  joiner.  labourer,  Unendrapcr,  maltster,  mercer,  miller, 
musician,  ostler,  parchment  maker,  pcruquier,  pewtercr,  point 
maker,  ropcmakcr,  saddler,  shcrcman,  shoemaker,  smith,  tailor, 
:r,    upholsterer,    victualler,   weaver,    whitawcr,    woollendraper,^ 

'oolwinder,  and  yeoman. 

From    the    Jirat    volume    of    the  orders    of    assembly    we    find 

;that  as   much   as    £15   in    1611    and    1614,  and  even  ;£|2o  in  i6i3 

paid  in  exceptional   cases  for  admission  to  (he  freemen's  roll. 

the    other    hand,   wc    find    the    freedom  granted    gratuitously 

the     recorder    and    the    town    counsel ;    to    the    parish    clerk 

Ail  Saints,  for  teaching  the  children  ;  to  one  who  had  in- 
terested himself  in  the  repairs  of  the  town  wall ;  and  lo  the 
master  of  the  gramniar  school.  There  arc  also  several  instances  of 
men  marrying  the  widows  of  freemen  being  admitted  at  half  the 
usual  fee,  vir.,  £$. 

A  curious  case  occurred  in  1634-  One  Henry  Folwcll.  a  tanner, 
pretended  thai  he  Iiad  served  apprentice  to  Mr.  Kingsworth,  but 
the  pretence  being  discovered,  he  was  denied  his  freedom.  How- 
ever, he  obtained  the  good  influence  of  Mr,  Justice  Crooke,  who 
wrote  on  hi»  behalf  to  ihc  corporation.  Therefore,  at  the  judge's 
request,  his  freedom  was  granted,  but  at  the  full  fee  of  j^io,  and 
after  he  had  made  the  following  curious  written  submission,  which 
he  signed  in  the  order  book : — 

1  fonnerly  petitioned  lo  this  Asscrnblic  for  nijr  rreedosne  supposing  I  bad  »oine  lisht 
to  it  \>y  reaion  oi  (he  compoillion  I  had  nude  with  my  Mr.  KiniH^orth  but  wh«n  the 
matiM  WM  well  liebaced  in  thu  huwte  it  proved  otherwiie  Thni  my  M"  ngrevmcnt 
wilb  mc  vrauld  bdv«  bene  a  kium  pnjitdlce  to  the  lilwitie  nnd  CotpocAti«n  by  fuche  a 
prMideni  ind  aUoe  hav«  prodoMd  10  much  dAiniigt  to  m«  Whcnfof  1  appealed  10  tbe 
Reverend  Judgesin  hopeto  have  obtained  it  another  Wayc,  but  thcjr  well  perrcavias 
say  driit  vould  not  lullnr  tot  much  irroDga  to  tli«  Cofporetion,  but  made  it  their 
reqoKUt  to  make  roe  frw  Mpaetally  Mr.  Juntice  Cooke  whoe  by  himselfe  did  Intmit 
for  mc  to  Mr.  Maior  and  some  of  his  Bnthren  thnt  foe  hia  aakc  you  itovii  bcsioir  my 
frc«doin«  upon  me  which  wAi  noi  denyed  me  and  as  I  urn  fiillia  M(ii<i«d  wa«  graunted 
Rie  by  llie  Maioc  and  Aldnnmn  till  it  came  to  their  vaxt*  that  I  had  given  out  some 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


Many  and  ii»ulliTij[  *p«Acl)M  againit  tbe  MaiM  thai  I  doubted  fl«l  but  I  »tMuI>d  Cocke 

biro  but  they  knowing  well  what  giouads  th«y  stand  upoa  dpn^vd  me  AftenHardo  '^H 

Jiave  afainc  and  againc  pMitioncd  to  Mr.  Justin  Cr««ke  whoc  kath  intivated  Mr.^H 

Rrcnrdnr  to  trriffht  tothem  thut  it  i«  his  requeast  it  may  not  be  chared  only  upoo 

my  humble  tubmixaiun  and  akcnowkdjEioK  toy  fault*  which  RnAlng  to  be  mx  palpaUe  , 

and  groM  tb»t  r  am  hartily*  tcmy  aud  aLshnmad  m<ui  humbly  b«MecMng  jtut  Mr.] 

Maior  and  yoat  RtHhttnn  the  Aldermen  with  the  BAilifTs  anil  xlviij  Fenon*  to   fOTfiM 

me  ihii  gtofx  faultc  iind  l«  admitt  mc  a  fteemin  of  ttii>  CMp«(ali<M>  lot  nfaich  I  ihall 

acknowledge  myself   ever  bound  lo  pray  for  you  all  and  doe  iikewite  prottuae  to 

curie  tny«nU  an  obedient  tnember  of  this  bodlc  with  all  reirercnd   respect  to  mj 

(ov«rnori.     In  witno  whereof  I  have  caused  tbli  my  iiubm!s«iob  to   be  publikdy  r«ad 

oute  and  hare  hervunto  *ei  nir  hsnde. 

Henry  Po)well| 

In    167a  the   assembly   ordered  that  the  Earl  ol   Banhury  b« 
sworn  a  freeman  according  to  his  request,  if  he  please  to  accept, 
of  the  same. 

In  1675  the  assenibiy  conferred  the  freedom  of  the  town  on  the 
various  county  {gentlemen  who  formed  a  committee  of  aid  after  the  1 
distressing  fire. 

One  Henry  Baxly,  goldsmith,  was  admitted  freeman  in  1680,  on 
payment  of  twenty  marks,  the  order  for  a  stranger  paying  j^ao 
notwithstanding,  on  accoynt  of  "the  uselullness  of  his  Trade  in 
this  I'owne,  there  being  noe  other  person  of  this  Towne  that  is  a 
working  Goldsmith." 

It   was  solemnly  reaffirmed  by    the   assembly  in    1693,  that  no' 
perKtn    whatsoever   shrill    he  suffered    to    follow    or    exercise  any 
trade,    art,    mystery,    or    manual    occupation  within  the    liberties 
before    he  be    sworn    and    admitted  a   freeman,    under  the  heavy 
penaltj-  of  £20. 

The  order  against  persons  who  were  not  freemen  trading  in  any 
way  whatsoever  within  the  liberties,  was  restatt^d  in  a  more  elabo- 
rate and  legal  form  in  1700,  as  a  charter-sanctioned  bye-law,  and 
again  in  1704. 

On  December  12th,  1722,  Anne  Hopkins,  widow,  being  "one 
of  the  people  called  Quakers,"  who  was  exercising  the  trade  of  a 
maltster  in  the  town,  was  ordered  to  be  admitted  a  freewoman 
upon  payment  of  jif^io,  ivilb  the  accustomed  fees,  and  in  case  she 
refused  to  take  up  her  freedom  on  those  terms,  she  would  be 
forthwith  sued  for  an  infringement  of  the  charter.  Due  notice  of 
this  order  was  served  upon  Anne  Hopkins,  who  treated  it  with 
contempt,  and  continued  to  exercise  her  trade.  A  case  was  sub- 
mitted to  the  deputy  recorder,  Mr.  Cuthbert,  and  he  advised  that 


a 

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I 
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FREEMEN    AND    APPRENTICES. 


317 


I 


W 
W 


ion  should  be  taken  under  bye-law,  1704,  which  was  dul^r 
witnessed,  in  accordance  with  the  charter,  by  two  of  her  majcstjr's 
judges. 

On  March  zgth,  1739.  the  assembly  ordered  that  James  William- 
son, mercer,  be  admitted  a  freeman  according  to  his  petition.  In 
his  petition  he  offered  £zo  lor  bis  freedom,  hut  the  assembly 
ordered  llial  he  should  pay  £50.  together  with  the  accustomed  fees, 
and  that  if  he  should  presume  to  open  shop  or  expose  for  sale  any 
goods  within  the  town  before  he  was  a  Freeman,  he  should  Forth- 
with be  prosecuted.  WiUiamson  was  ser^'ed  with  llic  order,  hut 
he  refused  to  take  up  his  freedom  at  £50,  saying  it  was  an 
exorbitant  price.  He  opened  shop,  and  speedily  drove  a  consider- 
able trade  as  mercer,  woollen  draper,  and  haberdasher  of  small 
wares  The  town  books  showed  that  the  sura  of  /50  had  only 
once  been  paid  For  a  freedom,  but  that  £40  had  been  paid  two  or 
three  times, 

The  a:iscnibly  stated  a  case  to  their  deputy  recorder,  Mr. 
Danvers.  Mr.  Danvers'  reply  was  somewhat  equivocal,  though,  on 
the  whole,  he  advised  the  corporation  to  proceed  ivith  an  action. 
He  concluded  as  follows:— "  Though  I  have  given  my  thoughts  as 
plainly  as  I  can,  this  being  a  matter  oF  such  great  consequence,  [ 
would  not  have  my  opinion  oncly  be  depended  upon  because  I 
know  my  Lord  Chief  Justice  Holt  (that  Oracle  of  the  Law)  hath 
often  set  himself  against  such  exclusion  of  foreigners,  saying  it 
was  against  the  liberty  of  the  subject,  and  that  it  was  a  grievance 
that  there  were  any  Corporations  in  England  that  should  pretend 
to  exclude  any  person  who  have  been  bred  up  to  a  trade  ;  but  what 
hath  been  the  opinion  of  the  Judges  of  Exchequer  I  cannot  say 
having  so  long  declined  any  attendance  at  the  lUr." 

The  second  book  of  the  enrolment  of  freemen  begins  in  1730, 
and  extends  to  I7i,r7-  It  is  arranged  under  the  different  mayors; 
the  first  two  years  are   in   l.atin,  and  the  remainder  in   English. 

The  usual  Fee  for  an  outsider  was  £10:  whilst  the  (ce&  paid 
by  apprentices  and  children  of  freemen  on  admission  were  los.  and 
33.  4d.  respectively.  In  the  latter  part  of  the  book,  the  fee  was 
occasionally  £20.  and  often  £1^.  6s.  8d. 

In  1733  occurred  the  great  scandal,  which  resulted  in  the 
freemen  being  declared  ineligible,  as  such,  for  the  parliamentary 
franchise.  This  question  is  entered  into  under  tlie  heading  ot 
parliamentary  burgesses,  but    it  may  here  be  stated   that   the  cor- 


3i8 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


poralion  at  this   junrture  decided  to  secure   a   victory  for  their 

candidate  by  the  wholesale  manufacture  of  non-resident  freemen  at 
three  guineas  apiece.  The  total  number  of  gentlemen  of  the 
county  and  neighbouring  shires,  thus  admitted  to  the  Northampton 
buT^css  roll,  between  February  rath  and  April  9th.  1733,  w« 
actually  396 ;  of  this  number  35  were  clergy. 

At  an  assembly  held  on  June  19th,  1740,  forty-nine  freemen 
were  struck  off  the  roll,  and  formally  "  disf ranchbed  and  ousted  o( 
his  and  their  several  and  respective  freedoms."  The  list  begins 
with  Sir  Edmund  Isham,  of  Lamport,  and  is  chiefly  composed  of 
country  squires  and  gentlemen,  but  also  includes  thirteen  of  the 
tradesfolk  of  Northampton. 

Xo  reason  is  assigned  for  this  action,  and  we  can  only  suppose 
that  it  was  lor  some  technical  default,  for  the  assembly  of  October 
2nd.  of  the  same  year,  reinstated  forty-four  of  those  disfranchised 
on  June  17th,  "upon  application  in  that  behalf  by  them  respec- 
tively made."  The  application  was  evidently  a  personal  one,  for 
though  readmitted  gratis,  each  one  of  the  applicants  had  to  retake 
the  oaths. 

Amongst  the  corporation  books  is  a  third  volume  containing 
enrolments  of  freemen,  ll  begins  in  1768  and  ends  in  1835.  and, 
consequently  overlaps  its  predecessor  bj-  some  30  years.  After 
1789  no  freemen's  payments  are  entered,  and  the  book  is  simply  a 
record  of  names. 

There  are  series  of  thin  burgess  or  freeman  books,  seven  in 
number,  containing  simply  the  names  of  the  freemen  on  their 
admission  entered  against  the  embossed  stamps  (two  of  one  shilling 
each),  according  to  act  of  parliament. 

The  first  book  contains  208  names,  all  enrolled  during  the 
mayoralty  of  Thomas  Peach,  1714-15. 

The  second  book  has  209  names  of  the  year  1726-7. 

The  third  book  has  452  names,  all  enrolled  during  1733-4,  the 
year  of  the  notorious  election. 

The  foLirlh  book  shows  an  excessive  reaciion.  and  covers  the 
next  two  years.  In  1734-5  there  were  six  new  freemen,  and  in 
1735^  there  were  eight. 

Book  five  cavers  the  next  eleven  years,  down  to  1746-7.  having 
an  average  of  about  twenty  a  year. 

The  sixth  book  is  for  the  next  six  years,  down  to  1752-3, 

TTic  seventh  and  last  carries  the  series  down  to  1 759-60. 


I 
I 


FREEMEN    AND    APPRENTICES. 


3'9 


At  the  October  meeting  of  the  asscmhly  in  1767,  it  was  ordered 
bat  any  one,  not  being  entitled  to  the  freedom  of  Lfie  town  by  birth 
or  sen'itudc,  might  be  admitted  to  the  freedom  on  payment  of  £10 
in  cash,  or  if  married  to  the  daughter  of  a  freeman,  on  payment 
of  £5.  Several  persona  were  soon  after  admited  to  the  freedom 
by  payment,  by  the  mayor  and  town  clerk,  on  talcing  the  necessary 
oaths.  "Certain  ill  disposed  persons"  objected  to  this,  and  said 
that  there  should  be  a  petition  to  the  assembly  before  any  freedom 
^could  be  granted,  and  they  applied  for  a  quo  warranto  against 
ic  mayor  and  town  clerk  in  the  court  of  king's  bench.  In  January, 
17&8,  the  assembly  instructed  counsel  to  defend  their  officials, 
stating  that  the  mayor  and  town  clerk,  in  thus  acting  with  regard 
to  freedoms  that  were  purchased,  were  merely  following  ancient 
usage  and  custom. 

The  assembly  resolved,  on  April  2gth,  1796,  that  as  the  new 
charter  was  only  binding  upon  those  who  think  proper  to 
accept  it,  it  was  necessary  that  those  who  had  taken  out 
their  freedom  under  the  former  charter  and  were  desirous  of 
possessing  the  benefits  and  privilegCR  of  the  corporation  under  the 
new  charier,  should  testify  their  acceptance  by  taking  the  oath  of 
office  of  a  freeman  as  heretofore.  Twelve  days  were  appointed  for 
the  administering  the  freeman's  oath  to  those  desirous  of  taking  it, 
the  days  and  hours  to  be  advertised  in  the  Northampton  Mercury. 

II     At   this  6r3t  as<seinb1y  after  the   new  charter,   Hon.  Spencer 
tcrccval.  then  a  candidate  to  represent  Northampton  in  parliament 
Was  made  an  honorary  freeman. 
It  was  first  resolved  that  any  man  resident  in  the  town  could 
purchase  his  freedom  for  £\o,  and   any   woman    for  ^5.  and   that 
any  one   marrying  a   freeman's    daughter,  could  gain  his  freedom 
^^or  jCS"'"  ^"  (^3ses  in  addition  to  the  customary  fees. 
^P      At  the  next  assembly  (May   24th,  1796),  Mr.    William   VValcot, 
and  Hon.  Edward  Bouvcrie,  the  two  other  parliamcntarj'  candidates, 
were  also  made  honorary  freemen. 

^_  In  1804  it  was  ordered  that  the  purchase  of  frce<loms  be  j^i5 
^Hnstead  of  £10,  and  £,•}.  los.  instead  of  /5  on  marriage  of  a 
^nreeman'K  daughter,  also  that  the  usual  fees  be  increased  by  one- 
^^third  of  the  former  amount. 

On  November  7t.h,  1833,  fifty-two  persons  were  admitted  at 
[the  assembly  to  the  freedom  of  the  town  by  purchase. 


3» 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


On  August  9th,  1837,  twcnty-six  persons   were  added   to   the 
freemen's  roll  after  a  similar  fashion. 

The  assembly   of  December,  1833,  added  oae-huodrcd-and-tH-a^ 
names  to  the  freemen's  roll,  all  by  purchase.  H 

The  commissioners  of  municipal  corporations,  who  reported  in 
1835,  (jfive  the  following  list  of  fees  that  were  then  paid  on  ad- 
mission to  the  freedom ;  they  had  grown  materially  during  the  last 
few  years  of  the  life  of  the  old  corporation. 

By  birth. 

I.    s.  d.  C    «. 

To  the  mayor 046 

„    „    town  cleric    ...    o  16    2 
.,    ,,    macebearcr  ...014 


Fee  on  admission 


I     3    o] 


By  marriage. 

To  the  corporation  ... 

„     „     mayor 

„     ,,    town  clerk    ... 

.,     .,     macebearcr  ... 


Fee  on  admissioo 


By  apprenticeship. 

To  the  corporation  ...    o  13 

„     „     mayor            ...     o  4 

„     „     town  clerk    ...     o  16 

,,     „    macebearei  ,.,     o  i 


Fee  on  admission 


I   rs    6 


If  the  indentures  are  inrolled  with  the  town  clerk,  he  is  entitled  to 
an  additional  fee  of  i8s.  8d. 


£.   s.  d. 


By  purchase. 
To  the  corporation  ... 
„    „     mayor 
(,     „    town  clerk    ... 
„     ,,     macebearer  ... 


c 


Fee  on  admission 


15 


Apprentices. 

Before  giving  the  following  extracts  and  references  as  to  North- 
ampton's regulations  as  to  apprentices,  a  very  brief  comment  must 
be  offered  on  the  general   question.    From  the  attentiou  that  we 


PREr.MEN    AND    APPRENTICES. 


331 


im 

I 


been  able  to  give  in  the  past  to  the  town  apprentice  question, 
in  many  other  boroughs,  we   have  no   hesitation   in  saying  that 
(oTthampton,  of  Elizabethan  and  early  Jacobean  days,   stands  out 
Host  favourably  in  the  treatment  of  her  young  handicraftsmen. 

Many    other    boroughs,   through    the    jealousy    of   the    leading 
ucrchants  and  maoufadurers,  and  in  order  to  have  a  larger  supply 
raw  labour,  passed  severe  local  laws,  strictly  limiting  the  number 
^prentices  ;  whilst  the  heavy  tines  before  they  could  enter  a  craft 
|:''<^ain  their  freedom,  caused  many  a  man,  when  he  had  fmishcd 
lis    apprenticeship,    to    fall    back  with    the   rank    and  file  of  the 
ordinar)-  hired  labourers.     The  small  degree  of  limitation  in  numbers 
imposed    at    Northampton,    seems    to    have    been    mainly    in    the 
iterests  of  the  apprentice,  so  thai  no  freeman  should    have  more 
these   youths    than    he   could   comfortably  support    in  his  own 
IkOuse.     The  stringent  regulations  as  to  the  enrolment  of  the  inden- 
tures, carried  out,  as  a  rule,  most  faithfully  in  this  borough,  as  the 
books  prove,  were  a  great  safeguard  against  the  apprentice  being 
^—meanly  shaken  off   shortly   before   the  end  of   his  term,  and  in 
^Jhvour   of   his   securing   his   freedom    as   a   certainty   at  a  most 
^Hcoderate  fee. 

^^     In  many  other  towns  it  was  quite  th«  exception  to  find  in  the 
covenant  any  stipulation  as  to  the  youth  receiving,  when  his  s«r\'ice 
«nded,  the  implements  of  his  trade,  but  at  Northampton  this  was 
l^^e  rule,  and  not  the  exception. 

^V  A  general  fact  with  regard  to  town  apprentices  of  the  fifteenth, 
sixteenth,  and  seventeenth  centuries,  which  is  often  forgotten, 
should  also  be  remembered,  namely,  the  extreme  youth  of  these 
budding  txiwnsmen.  Children  were  apprenticed  constantly  as  young 
as  seven,  and  never  older  than  twelve. 

Great  care  was  taken,  too,  at  Northampton,  with  regard  to 
covenanted  servants,  as  apart  from  apprentices,  the  covenant  being 
personally  witnessed  by  the  mayor,  with  both  parties  before  him. 
The  cose  of  little  Agnes  Matthews,  in  1593,  should  be  noted,  as 
an  early  instance  of  a  humane  covenant  in  comparatively  rough 
^aya. 

^fe  Book  number  xiii  of  Mr.  Stuart  Moore's  catalogue,  contains  an 
^Bnteresting  series  of  memoranda  giving  all  the  salient  points  of  the 
^Qovenants  entered  into  with  covenanted  servants  and  apprentices, 
before  the  mayor  from  1561  to  1721,  A  few  of  the  earlier 
samples  arc  here  given  of  these  various  agreements : — 

w 


3»» 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


M*  the  tftA  d&ie  gf  JhIj  in  the  (muttic  yere  o(  tbe  Rclpae  of  Quca*  BUubrtha, 
Henry  Cowpcf  the  son  of  Heorjr  Cowpcr  cA  haMioa  in  Uie  rountjr  of  Nocttfton 
dieeiMd  bathe  |>ut  iiiniselfe  Couvctunt  Saviat  uc  John  Jonion  at  Nonh'toh  Coniccc 
from  nuj  dajr  laA  pan  for  Ihc  termc  of  vij  yercA,  and  nt  tha  vnd  of  Miren  yeras  nhm)! 
give  him  xf  in  mony,  and  honest  apparrcll  dairbJe>  and  (be  thnc  fim  yeres  a  |'  a 
quarter  and  the  fourc  ifttt  ycT««  ij''  le  qiMrter,  «tc  and  meate  and  drinke.  j 


M*  the  MWlnth«  dale  ofl  }nty  in  the  Ekg;k(  yere  off  the  Reigoe  of  oar  SovffraJne 
Lady  Queac  EUubcthc,  William  Wa]1y»  the  him  of  Williara  WalUi  late  of  Ihindon 
decccued  haihe  put  hinu«lf!  apprcntiM  to  Richard  Twickion  of  Northampton  glovec 
from  the  feast  <A  pcntecuat  last  past  unto  the  code  off  scvin  yeare»  fully  to  be  <:ompl«t 
and  t<ndld*nnd  al  the  rnrl  of  thir  MVjn  ytrM  sh*!!  m-tkc  him  Free  off  the  town*  o( 
Notthton  and  to  give  him  app^rrrll  !io(he  For  holly  day  and  working  day.  hem  ii  b 
agreed  hetwcnc  the  >aidc  parties  with  the  consent  of  thomos  Wa1t(»  hi>  brother,  tl^ 
the  said  Richord  Twiclnon  thall  or  may  Reeeyve  of  the  tmaunt  off  the  landes  and 
teaementc»  ofT  William  Wallys  his  aprentice  ycrely  upon  the  nionday  in  wbitaoDwccke 
called  i*it>oo  Monday  E-'orlic  ihilling*^  unlill  the  vome  of  tenna  pounde*  be  payde  for 
the  repayment  whereoll  the  aaide  Richard  Twidcton  »tandithe  bounden  the  taida 
Thoma*  Wallys  by  hit  obligdlion  bcarincc  dale  the  dale  of  the  date  above  wrlion. 


M^  that  llil«  Miickhill  the  mix'*  day  of  Seplemboi  in  the  y««t  of  o"  Lord  God 
■S^  in  the  fyrethc  ycrc  of  Che  Rcif^c  of  o'  sovraine  Lady  qtiene  EliaabcUw  dyd 
heocme  Covenant  tervant  to  W"  Fytehe»  ihomoker  for  jevyn  yens  from  theaoe  mH 
foloirin^  to  be  fully  complcl  and  ended  and  In  ihc  end  lo  give  linn  x*1r  nonj  aai 
appatdl  mete  for  him. 

Richard  Wbarloo  nuiot. 


« 


M'at  the  fcaal  of  Chmnu*  1565  bonifikce  Dig^wyde  bath  put  hlmwlf!  CoveUtint 
wTvant  with  Richard  Eni«ton  of  Northton  taylor  him  10  serve  from  the  satde  feast  For 
the  term  of  vij  yeres,  and  at  the  cnde  oft  vij  yer«  the  aside  Richard  limtion  to  gyre 
bonlface  hl«  MTvnni  ax*  in  mony  And  doble  Apparell  Wlinea  Symoo  CbariEO 
■aijaaot  and  CcoiKe  Newe  taylor, 

Mr.  Balgey  then  bdnge  nuiai^rl 

M"  at  the  feast  of  all  Mtnfea  I5<58  Giles  Amaaho  the  son  of  John  Amasko  of  1 
Cartmell  In  the  Coiinlie  of  l.;inc:ixhLre  haltie  put  himself  Covenaunt  •ervani  vitb] 
Roger  Haskyn  of  Nonhamplon  Uyloc  fur  ia  yem  with  doblc  ippamll  a  pain 
tbeirc  Rnd  a  piwninge  yron  and  ple«gv.  Cllss  Slatier  Crfstofcr  b«nloo«  of  Kendall. 


M-'  Henry  Stokes  the  aono  of  John  Slokcs,  of  Kctlllby  In  the  Coantie  of  Lecetor 
Kusboedman  put  hlmMlf  CovtMaunt  aefvnnt  to  George  HarrisAn  of  Northampton 
ihueftmllh  with  him  to  dwell  from  the  feaat  of  Seynt  John  bcspiyste  t$6j  unto  ibe  end. 
of  vij  ycrei,  and  at  the  Ende  of  vij  yeres  to  eivc  Henry  Stoke»  a  aledy,  a  buttfcs, 
a  paire  ol  bellos,  a  pnire  of  pynsans.  JIJ  hammers,  a  vice,  a  byrkhotn.  and  at  erery 
of  tvro  of  the  last  yercs  sball  give  hint  xij'  a  quartet  in  monye,  Mr.  Edward  Maoley 
then  beinge  Mai  or  of  Noitbten. 


FREEMEN    AND    APPRENTICES. 


333 


M*  thai  Ih*  6r«  day  off  Augn^st  A'  1575  Kaiittrin*  Hyait  the  douchUrr  oS 
Thomst  Hynde  off  Norihnmptun  shumik^  and  rhymnoy  tii-De|)«r  oC  Nmthton  h.i»« 
by  the  conicnt  off  Mr.  Ed  ward  c  Munley  ihen  bcinge  niaior  of  North  ton  piit  hinelfT 
Covenant  Mrvint  t«  John  Yonj^  of  Norttiton  marrei  atid  Alyc«  hh  wiS  tor  the  tenna 
[«(id  end  of  rij  ytrts,  the  terme  to  fcrET"<!  f">™  Michaelmas  n»xt  following*,  And  th* 
'Mydc  John  Vongwand  Alyceki>  wiff  sliall  (ynd  Kathcnn  Hyndc  their  «etvaM  nrwate 
<Irink  lynen  and  wollsn  dnringv  the  wytb)  Icnne  off  vij  y#re<.  and  at  th«  lam  ende  of 
▼Ij  y«cs  shall  g)T«  hit  doble  Apparrell  for  holly  dcite  nnd  mwkingc  day,  and  v)'  rHj* 
in  many. 

xxiij  dia  Danmbr  A<  xivj  Elir.  1593  Johi  M'c«r  maior.  M*  that  Henry  ^loteley 
d  the  tovDc  of  NonhampEon  Moltakw  batti«  proiiiysed  to  k«pe  on«  Asne^  Maihevres 
for  the  terme  of  Twelve  yerea  from  Mychelmaa  l&sia  fyadioga  ihe  anido  cliilde  amte 
4ryncke  Appanelt  Lodgcinge  iMrneinge,  and  lo  iiae  Iht  «aid*  chylde  well  and  to 
kepc  yi  Clcnite. 


U*  thii  Hffniy  SWI«y  none  of  William  Shetfcy  gf  Lodini^on  in  ihe  oouMie  o( 
of  Nanliam[>ion  Taylor  bathe  by  indeoiun  bearing  date  lh«  Sixths  dayi  of  October 
is  ibefyve  aad  ihinelh  yeare  of  ihc  ralgn  of  oar  soveralgnc  L«lyc  ^ueoe  Eliiabctbe 
put  htmwUe  appiwfttice  "nib  Ricbafd  Chamber*  of  the  lownc  of  Nprtbamptoo. 
nmik'tan  for  the  tcrni  of  El^t  yercx  from  the  (eut  of  St.  Michaell  iharcbiinKcil  thvn 
bat  put  bcfofc  the  date  of  tbe  aame  Indenture,  Tlie  anide  Henry  Sbcriey  dotba 
«Oveflaii(e  to  doe  bie  nide  M'  tnie  and  dilij^ect  aervicm  durieg  the  said  lerriM.  And  the 
aald  Ricbaid  Chambers  dothe  cuveiunt  tofyode  him  all  ibings  neeeuario  during  tbe 
saide  tertne,  to  Icnoh-him  the  uid  nrt  miuery*  or  irienco  of  a  muiician.  and  to  give 
bim  at  the  ende  of  tbe  midc  lemic  double  jppatrell.  fyve  shillingt  in  money,  and  a 

(tnbte  Tioleoe. 
In  addition  to  the  itnplcments  of  their  trade  handed  to  appren- 
ticM  or  covenanted  servants  at  the  end  of  their  term  by  a  tailor 
(which  was  general),  a  blacksmith,  and   a  musician,  as  mentioned 
above,  we  find  stipulations  made    that  a  jjlazier  should  provide  a 
lo  frame  lead  in ;  a  joiner  a  set  of  tools  such  as  would  make 
[a  bedstead  and  a  cupboard;  a  barber  a  comb,  a  pair  of  barber** 
fscissors.  and  a  case  of  barber's  knives  ;  and  a  cutler  twelve  suitable 
Lfilcs   and    a  vice.     Some   stipulate   for    linen  and  woollen  raiment, 
boac,  and  shoes,  and  bedding  throughout  the  term  :  others  for  meat, 
drink,    washing,   and    lodging ;    and  almost   invariably  the  double 
apparel    at  the  close   of  their  8€r\'itude.     The   master  frequently 
covenants  to  teach  the  trade  or  occupation ;  and   in  the  case  of  a 
glover    to   teach    both    "  water  work    and   shop    work."      Another 
frequent  pronso  with  apprentices  was  to  pay  the  fees  for  the  town's 
freedom  when  the  term  was  completed.    The  double  apparel  proviso 

W  3 


3H 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


una 


ceased  about  1665.  The  mother  of  the  youthful  apprentice  oc- 
casionally undertook  to  provide  her  boy's  tiasc,  and  now  aiid  a^^ain 
his  shirts;  but  unless  specially  provided  against,  the  master  found 
all  clothing. 

In    the   assembly  order   book,    under    the  year    1554,   are   b; 
entries  in  Latin  of  the  Indentures  ol  eight  apprentices. 

'lliere  are  also  several  entries  in  Englisli  of  the  years  1559  to 
1560  with  regard  to  apprentices  and  covenanted  ser\'ants,  of  whidi 
wc  give  two  examples ; — 

John  Stockxlale  ihesorie  ol  John  Stockdalc  of  Nonbamptun,  Cupenter,  hatliv  put 
himself  aprcniicc  tu  Hiliniind  Aicliebuld  of  Nprthtun  and  Eluat>otk«  his  wyS, 
ClothMV,  for  ihr  tnm  t,fi  eight  ycret  ftom  ih«  fea«t  t>(  the  purl  fi ratio n  of  o' 
Dni  ISS9.  A'  Reeinc  Dni  Eliiabethe  Sodo. 


UthilRMl^ 


Edward  D«wdb«  ltk«  song  of  John  Oowiim  of  Northton,  Glov«r,  hntbe  put 
covenant  wiih  John  Coyn*  of  Nonhton.  Porni  m^kcf,  niih  him  to  dwell  (o  lemt 
Clovers  cr.-ift.  nkynnen  rr.tfl,  and  poyni  mnkinf^,  ihc  icim  b«g;in  .11  ihe  feast  of  Sajrnt 
John  Unptist  A'  1560  (or  term  of  teven  j«.h«,  and  the  four  Im  j-cref  four  grotes,  and 
U  the  lilt  jreai  6'i^,  wiib  huncsi  rAymcnt  both  far  holli  day  and  worklns  daj. 

Owing  to  certain  irregularities,  the  assembly  ordered,  in    1609, 
that  apprentices  who  have  served  within  the  liberty  for  at  lea^tfl 
seven  years,  shall  be  admitted  freemen  without  any  charge  as  here- 
tofore, provided  that   the  apprentice  can  show  that  lie  was  dul^^ 
enrolled  in  the  book  of  records  of  apprentice*.  |H 

It  was  ordered  in  1619  that  no  tradesmen  should  have  or  retain 
in  bis  service  above  three  apprentices  at  one  time. 

There  having  been  great  laxity  iviLli  regard  to  the  enrtrfment  ■ 
apprentices,  whereby  many  had  been  admitted  freemen  irregularly, 
and  at  too  early  a  date,  it  was  ordered  by  the  assembly  in  1634,  that 
cverj'  inhabitant  hereafter  taking  any  apprentice  was  at  the  next  court 
of  hustings,  held  in  the  guildhall  after  the  binding  of  his  apprentice 
to  bring  his  apprentice  with  the  indenture,  and  there  present  :him^ 
to  the  mayor  to  be  enrolled  in  open  court,  paying  for  the  present-  ^ 
mcnt  I2d.  to  the  chamber,  and  for  the  enrolment  6d.  to  the   lowa 
clerk. 

At  another  assembly,  tn  the  same  year,  it  vras  stated  tillfe.1 
abuse  had   arisen,  whereby  divers   apprentices  had  oot  cottt 
out  their  full   term  with    their  first  masters,  but  had  been  turned 
over  corruptly  and  deceitfully  to  others  for  the    rest  of  their  tcnn. 
It  was  therefore  ordered  that  no  freeman  should  hereafter  ukt 
any  apprentice  who  had  been  formerly  bound  to  some  other  f^e^ 


ain 

4 


FREEMFN    AND    APPRENTICES. 


32s 


lan,  unless  the  turning  over  was  duly  enrolled  at  the  court  of 

lustings,  under  a  penalty  of  forty  shillings  ;  and  that  aoy  apprentice 

openinp    any  shop,  or  using  any   trade,  craft,    mystery,  or  manual 

occupation    before  his  time    had  expired,  was   to    be  fined  twenty 

|shillings  a  week  for  every  week  that  he  so  offended. 

That   there   were  disadvantages  as  well  as  advantages  in  the 
^exceptional  laxity  with  regard  to  ap]>rcnlices  according  to  North- 
ampton cusloins,  customs  which  had    become  more  vague  and  lajc 
[as  time  went  on,  is  evident  from  an  order  of  1635. 

On  August  4th,  of  that  year,  the  assembly  resolved  that — 

Wliereas  by  the  multitude  ol  Apprentirei  uken  into  ihi*  Corporation  out  of  the 
Cauntle  ot  other  Counties  wiitiin  lliis  Rr^lme  it  .ippurcth  thit  murh  hurt  and  damage 
CMnoih  to  tha  same  snd  the  rhildcren  borne  .ind  brnid  wiihin  ibcMid  Corpofscidn, 
forasmuch  »s  mini*  of  thp  wide  childcfRn  *\  well  ihntc  which  ate  leu  dcititutc  cl 
parenti  and  n>e3ne)  o(  maintenance,  as  Dthm,  cannot  bj  reason  hereof  be  preferred 
to  anieapprentimhip  with  anle  (re#[n;in  of  the  lame,  vrhet^by  they  might  be  educated 
and  brought  up  nniurall^  in  the  pl.tce  of  their  birth,  but  dlvrn  of  ihrm  by  reason  of 
apprentice*  are  promise uou<ly  and  unnaturillj"  taken  as  ia  aforeseide  are  driven  lo 
waitder  abroad,  beucinif,  and  to  be  disorderly  for  want  of  emp1o>-inen[s  Por  remedy 
h^T^Kit  it  is  HgTvnl  and  ordcfcd  ihnt  no  froRtnaii  shnll   at   ani«   limo    hercaflcr   lake 

iiny  person  nr  p«rsonB  to  bo  hi«  approniire  or  apprenlire«:  but  indi  whoss  parent  or 
patcnii  .ih:ilbc  lowne  dircllers  then  if  they  be  hiring  or  have  bene  toirrie  dwcllsi 
by  th«  (pace  of  one  yeare  at  the  least  before  th«[r  de<«ase,  if  they  be  then  dead, 
fir  shalbe  frcemr-n  of  some  city  or  town  cnrponce  within  this  rcalnne.  upon  paync 
thai  every  ireeman  taking  an  apprentice  othenrine  and  thereof  convicted  shall  forGtt, 
looM,  and  pay  (or  every  apprentice  soe  talien  Three  Pounds  10  the  Chamber  tains. 

The    following    orders    of    the    sevrntcrnth    century    were    all 
directed  agajiiisl  foreigners,  and  with  the  intc^nlion  of  bolstering  up 
Itlie  town  trade  in  the  interests  of   the  apprentices  as  well  as  the 
[freemen. 

It  was  ordered  in  1629  that  the  constabk-!>  and  thirdbnrouglis  of 

[each  ward  were  ever}'  month  to  present  to  the    mayor  the  names 

lof    all    newcomers,    tapsters,    ch amber I.-tins,    and    others,    and  the 

(receiver  or    receivers    of   thorn,  and   thai   any  constable  or  third- 

>rough  negligent  in  this  duty  was  to  be  fined  6s.  M. 

In  1637  a  stringent  order  was  passed  prohibiting  woollen 
[drapers,  mercers,  innholdcrs,  victuallers,  shoemakers,  tailors,  and 
[all  other  persons  using  any  art,  mystery,  occupation,  or  science 
[whatsoever,  from  employing  as  a  journeyman  (and  not  as  an 
tn  apprentice)  any  one  coming  out  of  the  country,  or  from  any 
[foreign  place,  without  the  previous  leave  of  the  mayor  and  justices. 


:  v" 


section  nine. 
Charitable   Foundations. 

Hospital  of  St.  Leonard — A  parochial  chapbl — ^The  havor's  oath — St. 
Leonard's  farm  and  the  lazerhan — Seal  op  St,  Leonard's— Hospital  of 
St.  John — Complaints  against  the  masters  and  their  non-residence — 
Endeavours  of  corporation  to  secure  control— Seal  of  St.  John's — Hospital 
OF  St.  Thohas — Its  uanaoruent  bv  the  corporation — Removal  op  lunatics, 
1854 — DeifouTiON  op  buildings,  1873 — Lanqham's  Charity — Sir  Thomas 
White's  loan  charity — Freeman's  charity — The   free   grammar  school  and 

ITS  MASTERS — ThE  CORPORATION  AND  EDUCATION — TABLES  OF  BENEFACTIONS  IN 
TOWN  HALL— Report  OF  CORPORATION  COHKITTEK  IN   1783. 


CHARITABLE    FOUNDATIONS. 


329 


THE    HOSPITAL    OF    ST.    LEONARD. 


MOXG  the  coqwratton  records  there  is  a  valuable  collection 

of  early  evidences  with  regard  to  the  lands  pertaining  10  the 

wspital  of  Si.  Leonard  on  the  south  side  of  the  town.    The   first 

of  these,  about  1150,  is  a  f^rant   from  Adam,  son  of  Nigel,  son  of 

Mervin  to  God  and  the    HospiLil    of    St.  Leonard  of  Northampton 

^and  the  sick    men  serving  God    there,  of   his  shop   in    VVhimplers 

tow  in  the   m.irket   of    N'orthainplon.  which    is  near  the  shop  of 

iie  said  sicic  men  towards  the  east  in  the  same  row. 

The  next  one  is  a  charter  of    Henry  11.  granting  protection  to 

le  lepers  of  St.  Leonard's.  Northampton,  and  permission  to  receive 

llms,     Mr.  Stuart  Moore  considered  that  this  charter  was  probably 

franti-d  at  the  time   when    Henry    II.  called    his  great  council  at 

lorthampton  at  which  Thnmas-^-Becket  was  arraigned. 

During   the  reigns   of    Richard    I.  and   John  there  were  many 

gifts  to  the  hospital.    A   grant  of    land  at  Pitsford,  in  the  latter 

reign,  a-ssigns  it  to  "  The  Blessed  Mary  and  the  sick  brethren  and 

sisters  of  the  house  of  S'  Leonard  at  Northampton  serving   God, 

5'  Nfary,  and  S*  Leonard  there" 

A  grant  about  1250  pert-iining  to  this  house  makes  mention  of 
"le  cowmcde,"  which  is  the  first  mention  we  have  met  with  of  the 
Cow  Meadow. 

(Another  grant   of  1294  devises    land   to  the  master,  brethren, 
and  sisters  of  the  lepers  of  St.  Leonard,  without  Northampton. 
In  1295  mention  is  made  of  the  parish  of  St.  Leonard  without 
Korthampton.     All  the  riles  of  a  parochial  church   !;eem  to    have 
been  administered   to  the  inhabitants  of  the  district  in  the  chapel 

I of  St.  Leonard  from  the  time  of  tlic  foundation  of  the  chapel. 

^H  In  1281  the  vicar  of  Hardingstone  claimed  offerings  and  tithe 
^^from  the  residents  in  ihe  liberty  of  St.  Leonard.  Evidence,  however, 
was  given  thai  the  inhabitants,  from  time  immemorial,  had  wor- 
shipped in  the  chapel  of  St.  Leonard,  and  had  the  ofHccs  of  baptism 
,  and  burial  performed  by  the  chaplain. 


330 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


I 


The  Bishop  of  Lincoln  decided  in  favour  of  St.  Leonards,  but 
ordered  that  every  future  chaplain  presented  by  the  mayor  and 
buif^ses  of  Northampton  shotild  also  obtain  the  consent  of  the 
prior  of  Si.  Andrew's,  and  ol  the  vicar  of  Hardingiitone. 

It  is  a  remarkable,  and,  possibly,  a  unique  arrangement  for 
the  chapel  of  a  lazar  house  to  be  used  for  parochial  purposes. 
St.  Leonard's,  however,  ts  traditionally  staled  to  have  been  founded 
by  William  the  Conqueror,  and  if  so,  was  established  some  time  m 
before  any  special  provision  was  made  for  lepens  in  England.  It  | 
seems  therefore  probable  that  parochial  rights  preceded  tlie  settle- 
ment of  the  lepers  in  connection  with  this  chapel,  and  that  the  sick 
brethren  and  sisters  had  either  a  small  detached  chapel  of  their 
own,  or  else  used  the  quire,  .tecurely  screened  off  from  the  parts 
devoted  to  general  worship.  ^M 

During  the  reigns  of  the  first  three  Edwards  there  were 
numerous  small  grants  of  land  to  the  hospital.  From  this  date 
the  documentii  are  chiefly  leases.  H 

A  deed  of  about  the  y«ar  1300  is  of  interest.  It  is  a  grant 
(rom  the  master  and  brethren  of  the  house  of  St.  I^^arus  of 
Burton  (Burton  Lazars)  to  the  master  and  brethren  of  the 
hospital  of  St.  Leonard,  in  Northampton,  of  a  toft  in  the  suburb 
of  Northampton,  opposite  the  hospital  church,  which  they  were 
to  hold  of  the  house  of  St.  Lazarus  by  rendering  a  yearly 
payment  at  Michaelmas  of  I2d. ;  and  if  it  should  ever  happen  that 
the  hou»e  of  St.  Leonard  should  fail  in  this  payment,  that  then  the 
brother  or  messenger  sent  to  collect  the  rent  was  to  be  ministered 
to  ai  the  expense  of  the  master  and  brethren  of  St.  Leonard's  till 
the  rent  was  fully  paid.  ^M 

The  Lincoln  episcopal  registers  contain  a  variety  of  institutions 
to  the  chaplaincy  of  St.  Leonard's,  o(  which  an  incomplete  list  is 
given  in  Bridge's  History.  The  first  is  that  of  Jolin  de  Tutbury, 
in  1283  on  the  presentation  of  R.  Fitzhcnry,  mayor  of  Northampton, 
and  the  rest  of  the  burge»»cs,  with  the  consent  of  the  prior  of  Si. 
Andrew's,  and  the  vicar  of  Hardingstonc.  The  hospital  was  tccb-  ^^ 
nically  in  Hardin^.stonc  parish,  and  the  prior  of  St.  Andrew  heU^f 
the  rector^'  and  nominated  the  vicars.  The  consent  of  the  prior 
and  vicar  is  also  recorded  in  an  institution  of  1293,  but  in  all 
subsequent  rases  the  mayor  and  burgesses  are  entered  as  the  sole 
patrons  without  any  qualifications.     In  the  Valor  Ecdesiasticus  \kt 


I 


CHARITABLE   FOL'NDATIONS. 


33J 


ayw  of  Northampton  for  the  time  being  is  termed  the  master  of 
le  hospital. 

In  the  fifteenth  century  the  town  adopted  the  unhappy  expedient 
o{  leasing  the  hospital  of  St.  Leonard's,  with  all  its  lands,  tene- 
ments, rents,  etc ,  making  the  lessee  responsible  for  all  the  duties 
that  really  pertained  to  the  mayor  as  master.  An  instance  of  this 
has  been  given  in  the  customary  (vol.  i.,  pp  403-5)  for  the  year 
J472,  when  the  corporation  let  the  hospital  on  a  life  lease  to  John 
ck,  of  Kiogslhorpc.  Tlie  lessee  covenanted  to  pay  the  chaplain 
;ht  marks  a  year  (or  four  marks,  with  food  and  drink  and  three 
yards  of  cloth) ;  to  pay  live  pence  a  week  lo  each  male  or  female 
leper  who  might  be  there ;  and  once  a  year  two  gammons  of  bacon 
and  a  bushel  of  oatmeal;  and  to  keep  the  houses,  building,  and 
church  in  good  repair.  The  object  of  a  lessee  would  thus  obviously 
be  to  keep  down  the  number  of  the  inmates. 

The  arrangement  proved,  however,  to  be  a  conspicuous  failure; 
jrobably  a  heavy  fine  for  the  lease  was  paid  to  the  corporation, 
^though  that  is  not  stated.  In  1505,  most  likely  on  the  death  of 
)hn  Peck,  the  assembly  determined  not  only  to  retain  lite  man- 
(emcnt  in  their  own  hands,  but  to  insist  on  their  mayors,  when 
Key  entered  on  oflicc,  taking  an  oath  to  manage  the  hospital 
personalty,  in  conjunction  with  a  committee  elected  by  the  cor< 
poration.  This  most  interesting  oath  is  written  out  in  full  in  the 
older  of  the  two  town  customaries,  which  in  now  in  the  British 
Museum : — 

SACSAMRNTVIt  HOlPITAtlS  SCI   LUITAUII. 

Y«  shall  swcre  thu  jt  >haU  wll  and  tr«uly  k«po  and  gfovenic  tht  hospylall  of 
Sa^'tit  LvoMrdct  (he  Abbott  in  Cm<hi  bTsydn  Norhamptcn  Which  bath  byn  mysiQ 
uMd  and  evyll  governed  and  {^yn  atrejr  contrary  to  the  Vynt  gr.iunie  Iheroi  in 
|pmea  pantA  Therefore  hit  i>  provided  and  ordeyned  by  Robarde  ShelTuntc  meyre 
th*  ««>d«  Town  of  Norhampton  and  the  Comburgraaw  and  Comynalte  havyn 
itcd  and  conducended  of  an  bole  mynde  nnd  jiggnmant  by  the  Corporation  of 
Mida  Towns  Thai  in  no  rnaner  «(  wise  Pront  thi»  tyme  Forwards  that 
thl  Mida  hospttall  of  Saini  I.vonarda  shalbe  govyn  grauntMl  or  <o  ferine  Mti«  to 
Dun  p«none  or  penones  in  tyme  comyn|;.  But  ih^t  it  shalbc  allvreys  reinyaaa 
anrnKife  in  the  ineyTc*  h»ndet  for  Ibe  tyme  beyng  Con)biir|[esMi  and  Coniynalt» 
^wordync  to  their  Fyf«  g;raunlc  And  alao  that  they  may  cho»  and  elect  of  ihcym- 
■etvaa  1|  oF  lb*  tavyna  Brtthtm  to  bars  tha  Rul«  uvcrsisht  and  good  govemauoos 
of  tfa*  fortcide  boi[)ita]l,  Also  undemelh  Ihein  one  B.iJIly  to  raxe  levy' and  reoeyve 
therc^  alt  fDancr  Rentes  anuyi«es  wEth  alt  and  atnjEulcr  other  appurteoauncca  10  th« 
fotMide  hotpltatl  appeneynyng  and  helon^dg.  And  that  the  aeid  Wardens  and 
wr'tth  tbe  leide  B«illy  once  in  the  yeie  within  one  aioayth  after  the  Feat 


332 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  KECOROS. 


d 
if 

i 

1 


of  oure  Loi<d«  n«xt  eoiKmjrog  that  tb«y  do  nuke  their  due  and  lawful!  a<:oomp<e9  how 
tlwr  have  friiliiJ  and  goiiernM  (h«  good/s  ot  the  iiode  plae«  (or  thai  yet*  heyug  and 
how  t)icy  b<m  employed  to  tlic  unlvermll  ireale  ot  the  imiie  lu  jour  conoync  ai 
potuw  so  hetpe  yuu  God  and  ail  seynia,  and  by  that  balw. 

Though  the  use  of  the  chapel  (which  had  long  sensed  as  a  parish' 
church  for  the  suburb  of  Cotton  end)  was  abandoned  during  the 
plunder  period  of  Henry  VIM.  and  Edward  \'i-,  the  brethren  and 
sisters  supported  there  apparently  dispersed,  and  the  dex-tses  of 
lard  connected  with  masses  seized  by  the  crown,  the  corporation  ot 
Northampton  was  suHtciently  powerful  to  prevent  evcr\*thing  going 
to  the  king  and  his  rapacious  courtiers. 

in  1550  there  was  an  award  in  Chancery  between  the  mayorl 
and  bur^sses  of  Northampton  and  Francis  Samwctl,  who  claimed 
to  have  purchased  the  chapel  of  St.  Leonard's  of  the  cron-n, 
in  the  third  year  of  Rdwarri  V'l,  The  award  assigned  tlie 
chapel  and  the  churchyard  to  the  mayor  and  burgesses  and  their 
successors  "  to  such  use  and  intent  as  they  shall  think  meet  and 
expedient  by  their  disi;retion,"  on  a  certain  payment  to  Franciafl 
Samwell.  U  was  further  ordered  that  if  the  mayor  and  burgesses 
should  happen  to  sell  any  lead  of  the  chapel  of  St  Leonard,  that. 
the  said  Francis  should  have  one  fodder  of  it,  paying  to  them  £^ 

The  chapel  has  long  ago  disappeared.  It  had  evidently  van- 
ished before  the  Elizabethan  terrier  of  1586  of  the  corporation 
possessions  was  drawn  up,  when  the  town  possessed  a  meadow  there 
called  St.  Leonard's  hoolc.  On  the  site  of  the  hospital,  and  com- 
prising same  of  the  secular  buildings,  a  farmhouse  was  erected, 
which  after  various  vicissitudes  of  flood  and  fire,  finally  disappeared 
about  the  beginning  of  this  century.  It  was  Icnown  as  St.  Leonard's 
farm,  and  was  situated  immediately  to  the  left  of  the  road  on  tbe^ 
further  side  of  the  south  bridge,  after  passing  the  Midland  Railway 
gates.  It  is  somewhat  to  the  credit  of  the  corporation  of  those 
days  that  they  did  not  appropriate  all  the  rents  from  this  ancient 
hospital  to  mere  town  u.scs,  for  they  built  a  small  cottage  or  tene- 
ment on  the  site,  called  the  Spittle  or  Lazerhouse,  which  was 
occupied  by  a  single  poor  man  rent  free.  Tlie  almsman  also 
received  a  weekly  allowance  of  two  shillings,  together  with  a  suit 
of  clothes  and  a  load  of  firewood  once  a  year.  Tlie  appointment  H 
of  this  corporation  bedesman,  usually  termed  the  lazerman,  rested 
with  the  mayor  and  aldermen. 

The  following  are  some  examples  of  references  to  St.  Leonard's 
And  the  laxcrman  in  the  town  records. 


L^ 


CHARITABLE    FOUNDATIONS. 


333 


In  August,  1663  the  assembly  ordered  that  speedy  care  be  taken 
|or  rebuilding  the  "  Lazermans  House,  the  same  having  been  driven 
jwra  by  the  late  great  flood." 

In  April  1665.  Mrs.  Wilson,  the  tenant  o(  tlie  dwelling  houses 
and  outhouses  called  Si.  Leonard's  larm,  received  notice  to  "  build 
anew  the  Barne  then  lately  ruyncd  by  a  great  Flood." 

The  court  of  aldermen,  in  1731,  ordered  that"  William  Batman, 

lason,  who  is   very  old  and  lame,    be   according  to  his  petition 

placed  in  the  lazerhouse  belonging  to  St  Leonard's  farm,  in  Cotton 

end,  in  the  room  of  John  Shortgrave,  lately  deceased,  and  do  recei*** 

the  weekly  pay  and  other  provisions  settled  for  the  maintenance 

the  said  lazerman." 

On  the  death  of  William  Batman,  in  1740,  Robert  Cox, 
gardener,  was  placed  in  the  lazerhouse  in  Batman's  room. 

In  1734  it  was  ordered  that  the  cliamberlain  for  the  time  being 

Kdo  yearly  provide  apparel  for  the  "Lazerman"  to  the  value  of  15s. 
i/er  and  besides  his  weekly  pay  and  load  of  wood,  the  apparel  to 
be  such  as  the  lazerman  shall  desire  and  choose. 

The  seal  of  St.  Leonard's  hospital,  given  on  plate  VI.,  fig.  5,  though 

I  of  much  interest,  is  a  late  and  somewhat  poorly  executed  example 
bf  about  1450.  A  full  length  ligure  of  St.  Leonard  is  represented 
beneath  elaborate  canopied  work,  whilst  below  St.  Leonard  is  a 
gateway  surmounted  by  a  crown.  The  gateway  is,  in  all  probability, 
intended  to  represent  the  town  gate  on  the  south  bridge  close  to 
the  hospital,  whilst  the  crown  may  be  taken  to  signify  that  it  was 
a  royal  foundation  of  William  the  Conqueror.  The  legend  round, 
in  small  black  tetter  is  : — 

J(.<0(.^mu6  .  6cf .  feonar&i.  iurfa.  nor^ampfon  . 

Hospital  ov  St.  John. 

The  exact  date  of  the  foundation  of  this  hospital  is  uncertain, 

well  as  the  name  of    the    founder.     The   patent    rolls   of    1306 

ifirm  certain  grants  that  were  made  to  the  hospital  by  Henry  IL, 

it  seems  probable  that  the  actual  year  of  the  foundation  was 

itjS.     In    Dugdale's  A/onaitt'con  it  is  stated  tJiat  the  hospital  M-as 

'founded  by  Walter,  archdeacon  of  J^ortharapton,  for   the  reception 

and  niaifitenancc  of  the  inlirm  -,  but  there    was    no   archdeacon  of 

Northampton  of  that  name  at  that  period,     One  William  was  arch- 

deacoo  of  Northampton   in  the   retgn  of   Stephen,  and  Walter  is 


334 


NORTHAMPTON  SOKOUQH  RECORDS. 


probabiy  an  error  Bishop  Grossteste  (1235-1354)  drew  up  a  con- 
stitution for  the  hospital  which  watt  to  be  r«ad  three  Limes  a  year 
before  the  master  and  brethren.  These  iftjunctions  were  conBrmed 
and  extended  by  Bishop  Buckingham  (1363-1397). 

These  orders  enjoined  upon  the  brothers  lo  keep  silence  wit 
the  church,  dormitory,  and  refectory  ;  to  wear  a  uniform  and  humW 
habit  of  one  colour,  with  a  black  cross  imposed  upon  it ;  to  a< 
no  woman  within  the  precincts ;  to  make  weekly  confession  of  fou- 
cesses  and  sins  before  the  chapter,  together  with  other  reguLationq 
such  as  usually  pertained  to  a  religiouti  house. 

Two  centuries  later,  when  the  ^aUr  EceUsiasttcus  was  drai 
up.  i"  1535-  '^"^   regulations   of  this   hospital    seem  to  have  been' 
considerably  changed. 

At  that  time  a  certain  number  o(  aged  poor  were  maintained  io 
the  hospital,  the  names  of  three  men  and  live  women  who  were  u^| 
receipt  of  twopence  a  day  being  given.  ^^ 

A  certiHcate  of  this  hospital  at  the  time  of  the  general  survey 
in  1546,  describes  it  as  founded  to  find  one  master,  two  priests,  and 
eight  poor  folk,  and  to  keep  iiospitality.  The  hospital  is  described 
as  no  parish  church,  but  only  for  the  company  there  inhabiting. 

The  church  pertaining  to  the  hospiLiI  had  its  bur>-ing  ground 
from  an  early  date,  for  in  I38b  a.  vacant  piece  of  land  is  convened 
to  the  brothers  of  St.  John  for  enlarging'  their  cemetery.  ^^^H 

An  elaborate  charter  of  Charles  I.:  granted  in  1631  purport^^^ 
CLUOte   from   the   original    foundation    deed,  from  which    it  appears 
that  the  practice  that  existed  in  the  time  of  Henry  VIII.  and  was 
continued  down  to  recent  days,  when  two  co-brethren  or  chaplainsi 
held    annual    stipends,   and   eight  almsmen    or  almswomeo    had  al 
weekly  allowance,  was  not  a  part  of   the  primary  intention    of  tbsj 
foundation.     The  object  of  the  hospital    in    its  earlier  days  was  to] 
afford  temporary  entertainment  and  refreshment  for  the  in6rm  poor' 
and  for  orphans ;   whilst  the  "  languidi  vel  leprosi "  were  excepted 
as  being  likely  to  prove  a  permanent  charge  upon  the  establishment-] 

The  Bishop  of  Lincoln  was,  from  its  first  origin,  the  patron  of  lb* 
hospital,  and  had  the  presentation  of   the   master.     Grave  charge*  ^ 
of  mtt«man.igcment  and  monopohsation  of  the  funds  by  non-resident  H 
masters  were  made   before    the  Reformation,  and    these  c%'ils  ma- 
terially increased  when  the  formation  of  the  diocese  of  Peterborough 
removed  all  connection  of  the  town  with  Lincoln*    The  mastersh^ 


CHARITABLE    FOUNDATIONS. 


335 


,ol   St.  John's,  Nortlianipton,  came  to  be  regarded  as  a  lucrative 
sinecure  to  the  disgrace  of  ail  concerned. 

In  the  days  of  Elizabeth,  about  1573,  Bishop  Cowpcr,  of  Lincoln, 
'presented     Mr.    Arthur    Wake,    M.A.,    to    the    mastership.      The 
domestic  state  papers  show  that  this  master  of    St.  John's,   North- 
ampton took  himself  off,  almost  immediately  after  his  preferment, 
to  the  island  of  Jersey,  and  there  lived  with  his  [riond,  the  captain 
general,  Mr.  Paulet.     After  he  had  been  absent  from  the  kinf^dom 
for  more  than    a  year,  forma)    complaints  were  lodged  with  the 
bishop,  and    he  fell  constrained  to    remonstrate.     Whereupon    Mr. 
Wake,  in  the  spring  of  1575,  wrote  to  the  Earl  of  Leicester,  a.'iking 
bim  to  procure  a  license,  that  he  might  enjoy  his   living,  notwith- 
standing his  absence,  as  he  had  no  intention  of  coming  home.    The 
earl  seems  to  have  lacked  the  courage  to  ask  the  privy  council  or 
his   royal  mistress   for  such  a  license,  but  contented   himself  with 
BTiting    a    letter,   sadly   characteristic    of    the  times,  wherein   be 
"^bilterly  complained  to  the  bishop  of  his  efforts  la  remove  his  friend, 
Arthur  Wake,  from  the  hospital,  concluding  by  writing  that    if  he 
(the  bishop)  wished  to  find  the  earl  in  the  future  favourable  to  any 
ot  his  desires  that  he  would  suffer  Mr.  Wake  to  retain  the  North- 
hampton mastership  in  quietness! 

V  In  1584  William  Westgate  was  consecrated  bi-thop  of  Lincoln, 
and  some  of  the  most  influential  men  in  the  ton-n  and  county  of 
Northampton  again  endeavoured  to  obtain  some  amendment  with 
regard  to  the  scandals  pertaining  to  the  hospital.  Failing  witli  the 
bishop,  they  lodged  their  complaint  with  the  privy  council.  The 
following  is  from  the  state  papers  for  that  year  :— 

There  luthe  bene  djrcri  Jmiirei  wittiin  the  Co  untie  of  Nurlhamplon  with  tJyven 
other  pcnotw  ot  good  crcditt  that  hatbe  uken  vevre  ot  the  aaid  Hoiyiul)  thnt  the 
vnid  tuMpiinll  tagnathcr  vith  iho  Rvwnawvs  (henof  wxre  nol  tmploywl  nor  iiMd 
accurdtn£  to  the  Gnt  faundacion  a»  did  then  mnnifEatly  appeare  But  were  cunverCed  to 
the  Krest  benc&it  and  Commodity  al  auche  penoni  as  the  order*  of  rh«  hooM  wouM 
not  warrant  Acd  that  haidl/  the  xx'^  parte  of  the  uld  Reifenew«s  ware  at  anjr  tltit« 

Il^veit  10  ike  releifc  of  any  impotent  aged  or  feeble  per*»n>. 
One  M'  Wake  Hut  pretetidctbe  hymwiie  to  be  master  at  the  said  iKwpitatt  would 
hot  pennitt  nur  suffer  tlin  uld  Juitices  to  take  any  vewo  of  tbe  Evidvncea  hdoaf^tige 
fe»  tbe  uHi  Mo»piiAll. 
I  Tbe  cause  vrherfore  the  si!d!  pretended  .M'  would  nOl  pemnttte  the  laid  Jucti<re«  to 
to  lak  vcwc  of  the  Hid  Evid«nccs  wu  aftctwards  dlscaveicd  tty  ceiien  credible 
pcrtOBi  who  allinned  tlut  the  mott  paitc  of  the  Evideni:«i  of  tbe  taid  Hospit«ll  vera 
boTM  al  Late  yeana  by  one  M'  Lowe  that  was  laU  M'  thereof  who  affirmed  tbat  il  tbe 


336 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS- 


^ 

i 


wtd  Evltknccs  shoul<l  come  to  lig;hl  thai  ihey  would  overthrowgibe  Ute  tvboll  stale 
the  laid  }lo«{><tall. 

And  Inuly  the  «»1()  JuAioet  did  fvnde  th;i(  the  s^id  Hrnpitall  «n«  greatly  decrtyn!, 
and  th«  Cbeefe  huwte  belonpngc  to  the  sani«  was  pulici  downe  and  nude  a  piy*^ 
dmlling*  howM.  And  ih«  l3i«  imst«rs  of  the  uid  Hospital)  have  taken  upon  ibam 
of  theirc  narnc  Aiitlinryiic  to  mnke  )e»sa  for  tnony  ycrrt  of  ihc  said  Land*  and  ten 
mcnts belcnginge  to  th«  did  Hoipilall  not  K£crving«  the  aide  and  accvstomed  ReM«<K] 

And  lo  dyvera  they  liav«  made  grniinies  u(  the  slide  Landes  In  Tayle  to  iliem  and 
to  theirc  Wrci  males,  and  (or  want  of  such  yi3u«  mile  for  (outv  (core  ycrea  iftar  to 
there  aingnes  And  to  some  they  have  lolde  a  waye  dyvers  of  the  said  Inndas  to  tfctm 
and  to  iheii  hclree  for  ever  {ireacnririge  aonte  small  Cheefe  Rente  or  almost  noe  Rent 
at  airSo  n<  if  th«M  Jind  dyvors  other  persom  l>e  sulfmnl  within  verie  short  tjrrae  tha 
urholle  Revetiewes  of  Iho  mid  llospltill  wilbe  deane  conlitcate.  fl 

Neither  is  be  yt  prctendcth  himsclfe  M'  suche  a  pcnon  as  he  ou(;hi  lo  be  ocilher^ 
yel  laurfully  called  or  preferred  to  that  pta«e  (or  It  is  apparent  he  Is  eligaMe  by  tfae 
(ellovTs  and  brcihrvn  of  the  said  house  And  (here  was  nou  at  all  present  at  the  electioa 
ei  him. 

Mr.  Arthur  Lok'c,  mentioned  in  this  complaint,  was  appointed 
master  in  1544.  on  the  resignation  of  Richard  Burdsall. 

Upon  Mr.  Arthur  Wake's  resignation  in  the  time  of  James  t^ 
a  succeeding  bishop  presented  VVilli,iJD  Wake,  who  held  ihe 
mastership  until  his  resignation  in  1638,  when  Bishop  Williams 
presented  George  Wake,  fellow  of  Magdalen  College,  Oxford,  and 
Master  of  Arts,  and  chancellor  of  the  diocese  of  Peterborough. 
George  Wake  was  several  times  dispossessed,  his  tenure  of  office 
g^iving  rise  to  con  side  nible  litigation,  but  he  died  master  in  i6Sj, 
and  was  buried  in  the  chapel  of  the  hospital 

When  the  supporters  of  the  Commonwealth  gained  ihe  upper 
hand  in  Northampton,  the  town  was  anxious  to  secure  the   large 
revenues  of  this  hospital  and  to  administer  it  solely  for  Ihe  benefit 
of  the  poor.    They  made    the  excuse  of   Mr.  Wake's  presence  in. 
Oxford  at    the   time  when    the  Icing  made  it  a  garrison   town,  toj 
»ecure    the    sequestration    of    the    hospital    estates.      But    on  the; 
surrender  of  Oxford   to  Lord  Fairfax  in  1646,  Mr.  Wake  entered 
his    name  as    a  compounder    at   Goldsmith's    hall,   and   put  in  a 
particular   of    his    estates,    the    greatest    part    of    which    was  the 
mastership    of    this    hospital.      The    corporation    of    Northampton 
thereupon  formally  exhibited  articles   against    (he   master,  alleging 
that  he  had  for  3  long  time  neglected  having  two  co-brothers;  that 
he    had    not    duly    preserved  the  deeds  and  evidences  in   a  ihree- 
locktfd  chest ;  that   he   had    emberrled    or   lost    various    evidencoi 
M'hereby  much  of  the  rents  and  revenues  had  been  lessened  ;  that  I 


CHARITABLE    FOUNDATIONS, 


had  withheld  from  the  co-brothers  and  poor  of  the  hospital  thirty- 
five  loAds  of  wood ;  that  he  had  allowed  the  houses  ajid 
buildin^5  belonging  to  the  hospital  to  become  long  ruinous,  and 
some  lo  fall  down ;  that  he  had  illegally  sold  some  of  the  property 
of  the  hospital ;  that  be  had  granted  divers  unwarrantable  leases 
^^'ithout  the  concurrence  of  the  two  co-brothers ;  and  that  when  he 
was  requested  to  make  discovery  of  such  houses  and  lands  as  had 
been  unwarrantably  sold,  that  he  "  the  said  George  Wake  did  say, 
affirm,  and  swear  that  he  would  not  discover  the  same,  but  would 
rather  beg  for  his  livelihood,  with  a  dish  under  hi.t  .nrm,  than  make 
any  such  discovery.'' 

Thft  committee,  in  the  following  December,  decided  against  his 
be;ing  admitted  to  compound  for  the  mastership  as  it  was  an  office 
of  trust.  Karly  in  1647,  the  poor  of  the  hospital  petition  the 
knights  and  burgesses  for  the  town  and  county  of  Northampton, 
and  the  committee  of  Goldsmith's  hall,  that  as  the  hospital  has 
time  out  of  mind  belonged  to  George  Wake  and  his  predecessors, 
who  have  been  worthy  benefactors,  that  he  may  be  continued 
master  ;  that  he  has  never  wronged  the  poor  of  the  house ;  .ind 
that  William  Wake,  his  predecessor,  v.as  rather  a  founder  uf  the 
house  than  a  master,  having  spent  more  in  lawsuits  to  maintain 
his  rights  than  the  revenue  of  the  mastership. 

On  April  5th.  t647.  Wake  begged  to  compound  for  the  master- 
ship excepted  from  his  composition,  a*  the  House  of  Commons 
had  adjudged  it  real  estate;  and  that  three  persons  who  had  been 
put  into  the  hospital  more  than  the  estate  allowed  be  not  displaced, 
but  their  maintenance  as  supernumeraries  be  accepted  in  tieu  of 
a  line.  In  June  the  committee  suspended  his  sequestration  on 
pa>Tnent  of  half  his  fine,  and  he  was  to  be  allowed  the  hospital 
profits  beyond  what  was  used  for  the  poor,  provided  he  sued  out 
a  pardon. 

Tlie  mayor  and  corporation  of  Northampton  addressed  the 
)mmittee  in  .\pril.  1648,  begging  that  if  Wake's  title  be  held 
good,  tliey  may  pay  lum  ^25  **  year  whilst  master,  and  employ 
the  rest  of  the  hospital  profits  for  the  poor.  The  two  last  mayors 
had  f>ecn  entrusted  with  the  whole  profits,  but  they  were  now 
required  to  pay  the  rents  to  Wake,  who.  as  they  conceived,  had 
no  good  title  to  the  mastership.  They  stated  that  Uie  town  and 
adjacent  places  were  vcrj'  full  of  maimed  soldiers  and  poor  widows. 
and  b^ged  to  be  heard.    W'hercupon  the  committee  ordered  both 

X 


33* 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROL'GH    RECORDS. 


tyeoM 
ifaa'sV 


I 


parties  to  appear  before  tliem,  with  the   result  that  the   case  w; 
referred  to  the  House  of  Commons,  and  the  house  referred  it  back 
to  tlie  committee. 

In  July,  1648,  two  of  the  aldermen  had  their  expenses  defra; 
for  journeying  to  London  to  follow  up  the  cause  of  St  Jofaa 
Hospital  on  behalf  of  the  town.  It  was  at  the  same  time  agreed 
that  the  mayor  and  Mr.  Gifford  shall  at  oner  proceed  to  Lcmdon 
to  follow  up  the  c^se  in  Goldsmith  Hall,  where  it  would  be  heard 
on  Friday  next,  and  to  present  a  petition  on  behalf  of  the  corpora- 
tion  that  the  management  of  the  hospital  and  its  lands  may  be  so 
diipoivcd  of  that  the  income  shall  wholly  go  to  the  support  of  the 
poor. 

tn  the  following  September  the  assembly  resolved  to  desire  the 
sequestrators  of  delinquent's  estates  in  Northampton  to  join  with 
Aldermen  Ru>hworth  and  Sergeant  in  managing  and  ordering  the 
hospital  of  St.  John  for  the  present,  and  that  there  shall  slwrtly 
be  a  petition  presented  to  parliament  for  obtaining  a  grant  to  the 
corporation,  giving  them  power  lo  yearly  nominate  two  masters 
for  St.  John's  Hospital,  and  to  superintend  its  accounts  for  the 
good  of  the  poor,  as  they  already  do  with  St.  Thomas'  Hospital. 

The  corporation,  however,  were  not  surcessful,  for    Mr.    Wake 
was  admitted  to  compound    for   the  mastership  on  payment  of  his 
full   fine  and  on    allow*ing  the  supernumary   almsmen   lo  remain. 
The  sequestration    of    the    hospital   was  taken   off    on    Novemberw 
27th,  1648.  I 

Litigation  was  resumed  in  1653,  and  was  not  settled  at  the  time 
of  the  Restoration,  Serious  charges  of  irregularity  were  made 
against  Dr.  Wake  in  1665,  and  again  in  1678,  but  he  managed  to 
retain  the  mastership  till  his  death  in  i68a.  At  each  of  these 
later  dates,  the  corporation  records  show  that  renewed  efforts  were 
made  to  obtain  town  control  over  tlie  revenues. 

The  following  is  a  Ust  of  the  masters  of  St.  John's  after  the 
death  of  Dr.  Wake,  with  the  year  of  their  appointment: — 

John  Skclton,  M  A.  (Archdeacon  of  Bedford) 

James  Gardiner  

Anthony  Reynolds,  Esq 

John  Kcrrick,  M.D 

Robert  Dowbi^n,  B.A.  

George  Hubbard,  gent 

Richard  I'retymin  


lit  i.-a;tu  or  St   Afcnoi™r-«  fMiwv  t'e-  •  -M^i  iW  Si.  Jowe*  Ht»PiT*i. 

F)«.  »  -*il*l  or  rir*t»»»llTV  (W  THE  PoOMH-ntf-WiU. 

Mt  or  V   4**is   Ami*.  nB.v-S*M-»»  ?«   \.K»««o'S  MftW"  ■ 


CHARITABLE    FOUNDATIONS. 


339 


of  tliese  last  sei-en  masters  were  laymen.  The  revised 
criarter  of  Charles  I.  did  not  absolutely  prescribe  that  the  master 
should  be  in  holy  orders,  but  only  "  persona  graduata."  The 
bisliops  of  Lincoln  were,  however,  quite  unscrupulous  in  their 
appointment,  three  in  the  above  list  being  non-graduates.  Not 
one  of  these  masters  ever  resided  in  the  commodious  and  ancient 
master's  house,  but  let  both  the  building  and  gardens.  Master 
Pretyman,  one  of  the  sons  of  Bishop  Pretyman,  of  notorious 
pluraliit  fame,  himself  canon  and  precentor  of  Lincoln,  elc  ,  suffered 
the  buildings,  particularly  the  master's  house,  lo  gel  into  dis- 
graceful decay,  notwithstanding  the  oath  to  maintain  them  at  the 
i time  of  his  institution.  He  died  in  1866. 
The  master's  lodge  or  house  lay  about  60  yards  to  the 
East  of  the  chapel  and  domicile.  It  was  separated  from  the 
rest  of  the  buildings  by  a  public  lane,  called  "  Cralcebellestrete," 

»but  the  master  and  brethren  obtained  a  royal  licence  in  1266  to 
include  this  old  right  of  way  in  thetr  grounds,  [n  1274  the  town 
jury,  at  the  great  inquisition,  charged  the  hospital  with  having 
wronged  the  community  of  this  right  of  way,  apparently  ignorant 
of  their  having  obtained  due  legal  permission.  This  decayed  house, 
which  was  full  of  interest,  was  unhappily  pulled  down  in  1873  in 
connection  with  the  Midland  Railway  scheme.  The  old  chapel  and 
chief  domicile  still  remain,  having  been  fortunately  re-purchased 
by  the  Roman  Catholics  of  the  town. 

Sir  Hcnrj-  Dryden  printed  a  good  paper  descriptive  of  the 
architectural  features  of  St.  John's  Hospital  in  the  journal  of  the 
Associated  Architectural  Societies  for  1874. 

The  convalescent  home  at  Weston  Favell  now  absorbs  most  of 
the  revenues  of  this  ancient  and  sadly-abused  charity. 

The  hospital  is  usually  spoken  of  as  dedicated  to  St  John 
Baptist,  and  occasionally  to  St.  John  the  Evangelist.  Doth  are 
wrong,  the  hospital  having  the  highly  unusual  co-joint  dedication 
to  these  two  saints.  The  old  ho.spital  at  Sherborne  has  a  like 
dedication.  The  quaint  and  interesting  thirteenth  century  seal 
(Plate  VI.,  fig.  2)  shows  the  two  SS.  Johns  side  by  side.  The 
legend  in  l^ombardic  capitals,  is : — 

StGIl-t.  ■  HOSPITAL  ■  SCI  •  JOHIS  •  BAPTISTE  •  ET  •  S  •  I  •  BWANG  •  DE 

H  NORMANT 

^K  In  order  that  that  there  may  be  no  mistake  between  the  two 
^Hgto«s,  it  will  be  noticed  that  the  lettering  over  their  beads  reads, 
Hr^pcctively.  BAP  and  EWti. 

m '^ 


340 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


There  are  some  ratlier  remarkable  reference*  to  (he  use  at  the 
chapd  of  St.  John's  HcHipita],  in  Brit^c  street,  both  tn  the  St 
Sepukhre  and  AM  Saint*'  registcri.  The  chapel  of  this  old 
foundation  was  used  from  time  to  time,  contrary  to  all  osuaJ 
custom  and  ecclestastical  law,  for  matritnoDial  as  well  as  occasiooal 
burial  and  bapti»nal  purposes.  Not  having  any  register  of  its 
owD,  it  becanve  necessary  that  these  ecclesiastical  incidents  should 
be  recorded  cUewberc. 

The  St  Sepulchre  registers  record  the  marriage  of  John  Gibbs 
and  Katherine  Welsh,  both  of  Welford.  "  at  the  chapel  of  St 
John  Baptist  in  Northampton."  oo  July  31st  1670.  On  September 
lotht  1690,  John  Mansell,  of  St.  Alban's,  Wood  street,  London,  and 
Ann  Rawlins.  01*  Co^t^ve,  were  married  at  the  same  place-  A 
parishioner  of  St.  Sepulchre's  and  one  of  AH  Saints'  were  married 
in  that  chapel  oo  Itlarch  19th,  1699,  and  there  were  two  other 
marnages  in  1706  and  1707  respectively. 

The  following  entry  occurs  in  the  same  register  in  1700.  wherein 
St-  John's  is  errooeously  described  as  a  parish  ; — 

1700.  Mr.  John  SkeitOB  of  the  parish  of  St.  John  B«pti«t  ii 
the  Towne  of  Northampton  and  Isabel!  Hosre  of  Uw 
same  Towne  «-as  married  by  me  in  the  Church  ur 
Chappcl  of  St.  John  Baptist,  January  ye    ist  day. 

Among  the  buriab  occurs  thu  entiyt— 

1704-  Mr.  John  Skelton  Archdeacon  of  Bedford  was  burkd  ia 
the  chappel  of  St.  John  Baptist  in  tlic  Townr  at 
Northton  April  the  5th  day. 

In  Bride's  ^fortkamfilpmshirf  the  following  inscription  is  eivea 
•s  being  on  a  free-stone  near  the  alur : — '  Here  lycth  the  bodf 
of  John  Skelton.  Archdeacon  of  Bedford  and  MiiMcr  of  this  Hospital, 
who  dyed  the  3rd  of  April,  1704."  This  stone  is  now  covemi  op 
by  modem  encaustic  tiles. 

The  following  entry  <in  the  handwrituig  of  Mr.  JoIid  Whitnbin, 
Vicar  of  St  Scpaichrc's)  scrrw  lo  cxpbio  the  oioncctioo  between 
St  John's  Hospital  and  that  church  :?— 

**  I TOJ.  Thonas  Dickens  of  f^uacnbam  and  Mary  Giicl|;eon  of  the 
sane  was  married  in  the  rhappell  of  St.  John  Baptist,  to  Nonhlcs. 
April  yc  ijrd  day  by  me  co-brotbcr  ibcic"  It  sltows  that  Juoas 
\\*hitwbam,  besides  being  ticar  of  St  Sepulchre's,  was  alK> 
<-Vpl«in  of  St  John's. 


CHARITABLE    FOUSDATION-S- 


341 


Hospital  of  St.  Thomas. 

It  is  generally  believed  that    the  hospital  of  St.  Thomas  the 

iMartyr  was  founded  about  1450  by  the  burgesses  of  Northampton. 

Il  »eenis,  however,  certain  that  this  was  but  the  re-rounding  on  a. 

larger   scale  of   an  old   foundation,      St.    Thomas   &    Beckct    was 

canooiied   b    1173.      A    &eparjitc  chapel    in  his   honour   was  soon 

Haftcmards    built    at    NDrthampton,    which    was    of    sufht'lcnt    im- 

Hpottauce  to  be  confirmed  to  the  priory   of  Si.  Andrew  by  Bishop 

■Hugh  of  Lincoln  (i309-t335).     There  was  also  a    fnitcmity  of  St. 

Hnriiomas  the  Martyr  in  the  town  id  the  reign  of  Henry    III.     The 

Hhospital  of  Si.  Tliomas  was  situated  in    Bridge  strrct,  on  tbc  east 

Bside,    immediately  outside    (he   town  walls  and   gate,  and   in  that 

part  usually  termed  tlie  south  quarter. 

From  the  middle  of   the  fifteenth  century  the  house  was  under 

the  charge  of  the  mayor  and  burgesses  as  trustee*.     It  was  founded 

for  the  support  of  twelve  poor  persons  Cnien  or  women)  as  inmates, 

Kwho  were  to  receive  a  wo;kly  allowance,  with  clothing,  firuiK.  and 

Hwashing.    The  earlier  records  of  the   corporation  show   that  the 

Hmanagement    of    the    hospital    was    deputed    to   two     masters    or 

■wardens.    One   was  elected  each  year,  his   period  of  office  betog 

bfor  two  years,  during    the    first   of  which   he   was  termed  minor 

Binaster,  and  during  the  last  senior  master. 

H      On  Oi-tober  3rd,  1572,  the  assembly  chose  Mr.  Nayles  and  Mr. 
"Frear  to  be  "masters  of  Thomas  house." 

In  1584  it  was  agreed  that  the  poor  people  of  St.  Thomas' 
house  should  have  yearly  during  the  continu-ince  of  Duston  lease 
a  "  peece  of  meadowe  lying  in  the  Abbotts  meadowe  called  by 
tlie  name  of  Mrs.  ShajpoUcs  Hook."  At  the  same  time  entry  was 
made  that  Mr.  John  Bycheno  hath  bestowed  on  the  poor  of  the 
-uid  house  twenty  shillings  towards  the  buying  of  them  a  cow. 

In  1592  the  assembly  resolved  that  no  person  should  for  the 
future  be  placed  in  St.  Thomas'  house  without  the  good  will  and 
consent  of  the  mayor  and  his  brethren  had  been  Hnt  obtained, 
together  with  the  consent  of  the  alderman  and  masters  of  the  house. 
On  April  28th,  iC»o3,  the  assembly  elected  Thomas  Potter, 
tanner,  master  of  the  hospiul  of  St.  Thomas  for  the  ne«  two 
years,  being  the  younger  master  for  the  first  year,  and  the  elder 
,jnaster  fur  the  second  and  la»t  year. 

From  this  date  onwards  there  are  frequent  entries  of  the 
ippoifllment  by    the   assembly    at   their    October   meeting  of  the 


342 


NOKTHAMPTOS  DOROUCH  RECORDS. 


alderman  of  the  hospital,  wlfo  w«s  generally  contioued  io  ofiioe 
from  year  to  year,  tojjelbcr  with  tine  appointment  of  Uie  yooi^cr 
of  the    two  masters  for  a  period  of  ttvo  years. 

At  the  October  meeting  of   the  assembly  in   1G04,  Mr.  Tbooxai 
Huttifrcy  was  appointed— 

Aldernian  of  th«  alniHhanses  at  kotpilill  at  St.  Tliomat,  a«d  tlut  Mi.  Hu^ 
Cotes  »ball  conij'aue  add  be  one  of  the  nuiten  at  tbe  said  klEnesboum  or  ItMpnl 
for  o««  )-(iT«  ncxi  nniLning  (o  irjt  ibcloec  mirier,  and  lb«t  Mi.  Abnhin  Vctfrbikate 
tfaocliiT  muEcr  for  iwoc  yean  next  also  tniucin^  to  «ii  the  fim  yvtt*  the  youMv 
nuitcr,  and  the  second  j-catc  tbctdci  nui^tci,  (be  lald*  ntuion  to  be  acmmi 
of  them  r«>pecttvelie,  uhMb  bene  accuttomed. 

Instead  of  a  chaplain,  as  in  pre- Reformation  days,  the  corporMiM 
was  content  to  have  prayers  read  by  a  layman,  paying  him  a  looet 
mean  salary. 

William  Bronne,  .schoolmaster,  who  read  daily  pra3*t:r  to  tbc 
poor  people  in  St.  Thomas'  hospital,  had  hiii  annual  stipend  raUt^ 
in  1617,  from  i6ii.  10  20s.! 

A  bequest  by  Sir  John  Langbam  in  1654.  of  six  hundred  pounds 
to  the  corporation  of  Northampton,  enabled  the  trustees  of  the 
hospital  to  relieve  six  poor  widows,  in  addKion  to  those  already 
provided  for ;  these  six  widows  were  lo  receive  oac-and-eighlpcaoc 
each  weekly,  and  every  second  year  a  gown  of  broadcloth  or 
kersey.  A  sum  of  three  pounds  thirteen  and  fourpcncc  was  to  be 
yearly  expended  in  a  common  fire  for  these  six  alm^womcn ;  one 
pound  six  and  eight  pence  was  to  be  paid  to  the  vicar  of  AH 
Saints  or  some  other  ^odly  person,  to  instruct  them  in  matters  of 
religion;  and  the  mayor  and  aldermen  were  lo  expend  tnen^ 
shillings  on  June  6th  on  a  collation  of  cokes  and  wine. 

In  1635  power  was  given  by  the  assembly  to  the  alderman  and 
wardens  of  St.  Thomas'  to  contract  leases  of  tbe  property,  And 
to  transact  other  business. 

Tbe  almswomen  of  St.  Thomas  petitioned  tbe  assembly  in  1(14} 
to  be  permitted  to  receive  their  weekly  allowance  in  raoocy  insi 
of  bread,  so  ibat  they  might  "buyc  their  bread  at  tbe  best  h 
for  their  owne  advantage."    The  petition  was  granted.    At 
same  time  Lawrence  Cooke  M*a5  approved   and   appointed  to  " 
ofhce  of  prayeing  in  the  said   howse  cverie  day,  and   he  to 
the  same  allowance  yearlie  Mr.  Young  had." 

"  At  an  asscniblic  of  the  Maior  Bailifls  and  Burgeasc-i  holden 
xxxith  of  Maye,  1649,  It  a  ordered  upon  the  petitioa  of  tbc 


chakitablg;  foundations. 


343 


St    Thomas  Hospitall  whoe  want   lynnen  shifts,  That  for  this 
rme    th?y    that    arc    most   in    need    their  shalbe  furnished  with 
^cccHsaric  shifts  in  lynnen  hy  the  master  out  of  the  Hospitall  Rente 
moncj's." 

There  arc  various  entries  in  the  eighteenth  century  among  the 

ibcrlains'  accounts    of   diveriic   small  payments  made  towards 

inainlcnaDce  of  this  hospital,  of  wbtch  the   two  foUonitig  will 

icx  as  examples:  — 

s,    d. 

A  kettle  for  ye  alms  house        17    8 

1713     Hanging  the  Almes  hou^e  belt 2     i 

In  1711  it  was  enacted  that  the  almsfolk  of  St.  Thomas' hospital 
wear  their  gownes  when  they  came  up  into  the  town  ;  the  chamber- 
lu  to  refuse  those  coming  to  hira  for  their  money,  if  they  were 
}ess. 

The  court  of  aldermen  ordered,  in  1714,  that  Ihc  inmates  of  St. 
honuA'  hospital  wear  tbeir  gowns,  go  to  prayers,  and  reside  and 
!ecp  in   their  rooms  in   the  house.    Any  inmate  refusing  to  obey 
above  orders  was  to  lose  the  weclcly  allowance. 

The  poor  women  of  the  hospital  were   ordered,   in    1716,   to 

instantly  attend  the  prayers  of  the  house.    Any  one  absent  (save 

igh  sickness)  to  forfeit  the  weekly  allowance. 

In    1725  the   warden    was  enjoined    to    be   most   strict   in  the 

enforcement   of   orders  and    rules,  particularly  with   regard  to  the 

invariable  wcarii^  of  the  habit  of  the  house. 

In  1731  widow  Hocknell  was  placed  in  "St.  Thomas'  Hospital 
abovcstairs.  on  Mr.  Langham's  foundation,  upon  condition  that  she 
doe  attend  and  frequent  the  weekly  prayers  In  th<:  Chappel  of  the 
said  Hospital,  and  the  publick  Service  of  the  Church   of    England 

In  the  Lords  day,  and  ordered  that  the  first  time  the  said  Widow 
locknetl  shall    goe  to  any  Conventicle  or  place  of    worship  other 
MO   the  aforesaid   Cliappel   or  Church  of   England  that  she  he 
lercupon    forthwith    turned    out   of   and    removed    from   the  said 
lospital  and  tiiat  her  pay  doc  from  thercforward  cease." 
In  the  y«ar  tSoo  ten  extra  out-pensioners  (nidows)  were  added 
to  St.  Tbomas'  Hospital  at  /6  each,  and  it  was  resolved  to  expend 
355   annually  in  clothing  the   almswomen  in   the  house  in  Jicu  of 
allowance. 

In  the  same  year  it  was  t^rdered  that  the  chaplain  to  the  alms- 


3*4 


wamjWk3gFTo%  9o«oi;cH  records. 


oC  tke  ^os.  ^lowev  Co  be  pnd  Ub  b^  tte  mril 

Put  ol  Ae  waSl  of  SC  TboBss'  HospiuJ  wnc  takes  dowg  a 
tfe^  ik  order  lo  naake  t^  a^aooit  road  man:  CQcninMlkms. 

Im    iMhm   tW   wa.    iliim  win  ii   above   stairs    tiad  an 

of  ■iqwmie  a  week  gnsMcd  tban.  $o  3»  to  make 
cq/Mal  to  thai  of  tie  afasMranea   below  stairs. 

DazHg  the  bBowing  yiax  the  19  almswomca  of  tbe  1 
al  icccbcd  an  enzx  aBovaooe  of  ooe  jhSBog  a  week. 

Tbe   aaaemhhr,  on    Odobcr   7^    iSift,  ordered  an    siditiaail 
of  l&tr^  tWfinp  per  aniMKA  to  be  paid  to  tbe  ihatf* 
oat  of  the   bouse,  and  ikai   an   incrcMC  of  tcm 
widofn  be  nwie  to  the  establishnenL 

la  lias  seven  ■■'^^T*"'"'  ahnswomen  mre  added  to  the  niii 
of  the  oat-pessioMrs  of  St  ThoaMs'  HospitaL 

Tbe  boipical  of  Sl  Tbooas  occupied  ibc  she  of  tbe  Plootk 
Hoed  and  tbe  approach  to  tbe  new  caUle  market,  opposite  Wesui 
street.  This  hwndatiow  was,  KKNt  oafaappUy,  recsoved  to  S 
ttreeC,  ia  1834,  tbe  new  bstldii^  acoomiBodatisg  eight  irnnsu  ,  ..  _ 
each  receive  fe.  a  week,  besides  6riag.  and  an  al!o«-aiice  kr 
ckxbea.  Tbe  charity  aba  sopports  ststj-oae  oat-fMfosiooen,  «te 
RceiTe  5s.  a  wedc 

Tbe  old  boildiitgs  aod  the  chapel  rcmuoed  seculariicd  for  wmt 
forty  jears;  tbe  new  cattle  market,  wfatcb  was  opeoed  la  iS}^ 
neccasicaled  tbdr  ranoval.  The  <mlv  relic  of  tW  old  cbapel  of  St 
Thonaf  dow  cztaoL  wiUi  which  we  are  acquainted,  is  m«c 
remnants  of  t^  stained  glass  in  the  centre  Ugiil  of  the  small  west 
window  of  the  nare  of  St.  Sepulchre's  ckarch-  These  were  rctcttcd 
by  Mr.  J.  T.  Irvine,  clerk  of  the  works  for  the  restoratiOA  of  thai 
church,  at  a  time  when  tbe  old  chapel  of  5l-  Thomas  was  used  bf 
a  carriage  builder. 

The  charity  comnissiooers  visited  the  buildinss  sbortJy  bdore 
they  were  abandoned,  and  rcponed  that  ihc  hospital  (in  aJditioo 
to  a  chapel  and  a  common  room)  contained  apa/u-ncnt>  for  nineleci 
poor   wooien,    namely,  twelve  by  the   original  establisUm 
upon  the  foundation  of  Edward  Elmer  ia  1592,  and  six  pre 
by  Sir  John  LaafEham's  endowment  of  1654. 

There  is  a  Roed  il"'  "  ..>^per  df 

by  Sir  Henry  Dtj-dcn.  i.-  ■—         ^af  tif  t: 
Societies  for   1876. 


CHARITABLE    FOUNDATIONS. 


345 


LANGHAM   CHARiTY. 

In  1653  John  Langham,  esquire,  on  alderman  of  London,  born 
Northanipton,  expresstd  bis  desire  to  give  the  corporation  £500, 

provided    they    would    undertake  to  spend   £,y>  annually  for  some 

titable    use.     I'hc   assembly   re^suhcd   to  accept  tiic  ilsoo,  and 

rcmanted  to  make  the  £y>  an  annual  charge  on  any  land  of  the 

}rporation  as  counsel    might   advise,  and  to  spend  the  ^^30  as 

llderman  Langliam  might  direct. 

In    August,  1653,  "Mr.  Recorder  of   this   towne,    Mr.    Richard 

Rainsford  Esquier  CounctiU  at  (an-  for  this  towne,  Mr.  John  GifFord, 

Mr    Francis  Rushworth,  Mr.  Joseph  Sargeanl,  Mr.  Peter  Whalley, 

id  Mr    Daniel  Reding  Attorney  for  this  towne,  or  ante  fouer  of 

were  appointed  a  committee  to  confer  and  agree  with  Mr. 

Uderman    Langham  as    to   his   proposed  gift  and  the  security  to 

given. 

The  resuU  of  this  conference  was  that  Mr.  Langham  increased 
gift  to  £fioo,  and  the  corporation  undertook  to  pay  £b  per 
hundred  iC^)  yearly  for  the  tnainleaancc  of  six  poor  widows  of 
parish  of  All  Saints,  in  the  haspital  of  St.  Thomas.  At  the 
)ctober  meeting  of  Uie  assembly.  1654,  twelve  members  of  the 
corporation  were  appointed  fet^ccs  for  the  due  disposing  of  the 
Kfione)',  The  same  twelve  were  also  appointed  fcofFce.<i  to  administer 
^Hte  £,*iO0  heretofore  ijtven  by  the  late  John  Evans,  a  member  of 
^Bbc  corporation. 


Sir  Tho.mas  White's  Charity. 


By  far  the  most  important  of  the  town  charities  is  that  oC 
Sir  Thomas  White.  The  following  is  the  origin  of  its  elaborate 
provisions. 

On  July  &th,  1547,  an    indenture  was    made  between  the  cor- 
poration of  Coventry  and  the  wardens   of  the  merchant  tailors  of 
e  city  of  London  (the  corporation  having  purchased  certain  lands 
the  value  of  £,^o  per  annum  with   jf;i4O0  given  to  them   by  Sir 
>5  Wliile,  merchant  tailor),  whereby  the  corporation  co^-enaat 
ith  the  merchant  tailors,  immediately  after  Sir  Thomas  White's 
h.  to  pay  £,-;o  yearly  in  form  following  :— 
To  twelve  poor  men  of  Coventry.  £,z^. 

Yearly,  after  one  year  after  his  death,  to  deliver  in  free  loan 
for  ten  years  jf^o  to  four  young  men  of   Coventry,  to  use  by  £19 


346 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RBCOROS. 


a  man  for  nine  years,  and   so  to  others  irom   nine  s*ear9  lo  f^m'■ 
years  for  ever. 

After  those  ten  years,  then  during  thirty  years  to  dcliref  (j» 
to  two  young  men  by  j^zo,  and  so  to  other  two  front  tuneycantf 
nine  years  for  ever. 

After  the  thirty  years,  then  for  one  year  ^£40  pounds  to  Ott 
young  man  for  nine  years,  and  so  on. 

During  the  second  year  after  the  end  of   the  thirty  y^^"  '^• 
corporation  of   Coventry  were  to  pay  £40  10  the  corpor.. 
Northampton,  who  were  to  lend  the  same  by  e<]ual  portions  10 
young  men  of  their  town  of  good  name,  fame,  and  coMlHiaa 
nine  years. 

At  the  end  of  the  nine  ycara  to  four  other  young  men,  and  m 
on  for  ever. 

Then  it  is  appointed  to  Leicester,  Nottingham,  ami  Wanrid: 
for  one  year  in  order. 

Then  again  in  order  to  Coventr}',  Northampton,  hcvctAn, 
Nuitingham,  and  Warwick,  one  after  another,  until  a  hundred  pas 
be  expired. 

After  one  hundred  years,  then  th«  whole  ^^40  to  be  put  Mt  ja 
order  as  aforesaid,  to  one  man  for  nine  years,  and  so  on  for  ew. 

Sir  Thomas  Wlute  died  February  nth,  1566,  aged  7X 

The  general  estate  of  this  charity,  of  which  the  corporatioa  i( 
Covenlr)'  are  the  trustees,  in  course  of  time  increased  consuienbly 
in  value,  with  the  not  unnatural  result  that  the  complicated  pUu 
for  its  division  amongst  different  towns  led  !o  much  litigation. 

The  question  as  to  whether  the  surplusage  of  the  rents  aad 
profits  above  the  £^o  per  annum  should  go  to  the  city  o(  Co^'cntiy 
or  to  Ihc  general  benefit  of  the  charity,  was  referred  to  chancery 
in  1695,  and  it  was  not  until  lyra  that  it  was  eventually  settled 
in  favour  of  the  charity.  The  corporation  d  Cm'cntry  were  bound 
to  pay  over  to  the  corporation  of  Nonhampton  ever}-  fiftb  year 
four-sevenths  of  the  clear  rents  and  praiiLs.  From  t/ia  the  oiooitnt 
of  eacli  loan  was  £50,  tilt  the  year  1805.  when  the  rents  and  accu- 
mulations had  30  much  increased  that  chancery  gave  penniaaitB 
for  the  amount  of  each  loan  to  he  raised  to  £100. 

Throogbout     the    eighteenth    .^nd    nineteenth     centuries,    the 
references  to  this  charity  in  the  tovm  records  are  numerou 

In  1703  two  aldermen  and  th«  mace  bearer  weat  to  C 


3+8 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS- 


i    " 


from  him  to  the  corporation    ever  since   he  was  mayor,  for 
sum  lie  had  been  from  time  to  time  asked,  and  promised  but  fail 
to  pay.    He  was  warned  that  unless  he  paid  at  once  what  was  dl 
from    liim    as   mayor  and   treasurer   of   Sir  Thomas  White's    loan 
money  by  Martinmas,  that  action  at  law    would  be  taken   a^aia^. 
him  without  further  notice.  ^ 

The  applicants  for  Sir  Thomas  While's  money  were  frequently 
considerably  in  excess  of  the  number  of  sums  that  could  he  granted- 
Tlicre  are  various  incidental  references  to  Uiis  natural  coadilio 
of  things  in  the  various  earlier  orders,  etc,  relative  to  this  charit 
It  is  not,  however,  until  1771  that  we  meet  with  any  lists 
candidates.  Among  the  miscellaneous  documents  is  "  A  List  of 
persons  to  whom  the  17  £^,  part  of  S'  Thomas  White's 
were  granted  at  an  Assembly  held  before  the  Worp"  Sam'  Stur 
Es<i'  Mayor  the  23*  May,  1771."  On  this  occasion  there  wt 
twcnty-scvcn  applicants.  The  assembly  seems  to  have  voted  od 
almost  every  name,  the  highest  of  the  successful  candidates  candi- 
dates received  63  votes,  and  the  lowest  37.  Two  of  the  succcssfl^ 
applicants  received  no  votes,  but  the  word  "  member  "  is  wriUeflll 
by  the  side,  firom  which  it  appears  that  the  e^'il,  if  not  tltc^ 
habit  then  prevailed  of  accepting:  without  a  vote  the  appHcatioQ  of 
those  who  were  members  of  the  assembly 

In  1793  there  were  thirty  applicants  for  the  twenty-three 
then  to  be  granted.  The  highest  on  the  poll  of  the  succesK 
candidates  received  58  votes,  and  the  lowest  39,  At  the  bottom 
the  town  clerk's  poll  sheet  is  the  following : — W"  Sutton  being  i 
Member  of  the  Corp"  it  is  granted  to  him  of  course  excluMve  of 
the  above  23."  aj 

Three  years  later  there  were  foriy-five  £50  'o  be    lent,  but  Ji 
six  members  of  the  corporation  applied,  the  number  for  which  the 
assembly  polled  was  reduced  to  thirty-nine,     For  these  loans  there 
were  as  many  as  one-hundred -a  nd-tcn  applicants.    The  highest  o( 
the  winning  candidates  rccci^xd  70  votes. 

It  was  agreed  on  August  loth,  1797,  to  defray  the  expenses  of 
the  mayor  and  town  clerk's  journey  to  Coventry,  there  to  recrivc 
the  proportion  of  Sir  Thomas  White's  money  due  at  old  Ludyday, 
1796,  from  the  coqwration  of  Coventry,  and  to  affix  the  commM 
seal  to  a  bond  for  the  due  application  of  the  money. 

In  1799  the  town  clerk  was  requested  to  write  to  the  town  cter* 
of  Coventry,  stating  the  desire  of   the  corporation   to  put  out  Sir 


QDOI 

4 

im  t^ 


ClIAKtTABLE    FOUNDATrONS. 


349 


lomu  White"*  cltarity  in  jC'oo  loans  instead  of  jCso.  and  asking 

Coventty    will    join   with  N'orlliamplon  in   taking  the  necessary 

to  cffccl  such  a  change.     At  another  assembly  of  (lie  same 

,  the  town  clerk  mtis  directed  to  state  a  case  on  this  subject 

the  deputy  recorder,  and   to  olMatii    his  opinion.     In    i8o3  the 

ration   decided   to  take   steps    in    the    court  of    chancery  lo 

In    the   desired  alteration,  the  c^inion  of  the  deputy  recorder 

■.  Perceval).  Ilie  attorney  general,  being  favourable  lo  such  a 

inc.    After  the  usual  legal  delay,  the  corporation  obtained  their 

',  and  thirty*two  loans  of  jf^ioo  each  were  granted   in  April, 

,  "  in  pursuance  of  the  Decree  of  the  Court  of  Cbanccrj'  dated 

71b  December  last." 

In  1S33,  when  reform  was  in  the  air,  a  corporation  committee 

audit   urgently   recoinmcDded    the  cessation   of  a  party  of  the 

rthainpton  corporation    going    yearly    to    Coventry    to    receive 

money,  and  when  there  entertaining  the  corporation  of  Coventry 

dinner  at  the  expense  of  the  charity.     They  recommended  that 

the  mayor,  mayor-elect,  and  town  clerk  attend,  and  that  the 

iDoer  to  the  Coventry  corporation  be  discontinued. 

The    commissioners    on     municipal    corporations,    who    visited 

lortliampton  in  1834.  commented  most  adversely  upoti  the  admints* 

■ation  of   this  charity.     After  stating  that  the   loans  arc  granted 

ihc  majority  of    votes   in    the  common    halt,  on   application   by 

freemen  dcsiroas  of  obtaining  them,  it  is  added    that  sufficient 

iticc  of   the  distribution  wa.s  not  afforded,  the  only  notice  being 

circular  to  the  members  of  the  corporation,  and  none  to  the  public. 

;y   further  stated   that   the   loans   were  considered  entirely  a 

let  of  patronage  :  that  although  the  founder  directed  his  charity 

be  applied  to  the  benefit  of    "  young  men   of  good   name   fame 

condition,"  the  loans  have  not  been  limited  to  young    men  or 

setting    up   in   business ;    tJiat    they    have  been  granted  to 

<ns  settled    in  trade,  to  men  advanced    in  life,  and    in  opulent 

:ircuni.siances;  tluit  recently  loans  had  been  granted  to  an  attorney 

good  practice   who  kept  hunters,  and  to   an  alderman  who  was 

coju-h-bui!dcr  ;  that  when  members  of  the  corporation  apply  they 

ive  loans  as  a  matter  of  course;  and  that,  on  the  other  hand, 

poor  persons  in  receipt  of  parish  relief  have  had  the  grants. 

;cy  funhcr  reported  thai  the  White  charity   was  flagrantly  and 

openly  used   for  political    ends ;    Uiat  the  number  ol    While  loans 

granted  from  1S32  to   1S34  was   i8z ;  and  that  only  nine  of  that 


350 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECOROS. 


number  voted  against  the  Tory  or  corporation  candidate  at  paniP 
mcntar)'  elections. 

Freeman's  Charity.  ^ 


the    assembly    cxmtain    two    references    to 


^ 


Tbe  orders   of 
Freeman  chanty. 

It  was  rcpo.-lcd  to  the  assembly  in  March,  1637-8,  that  jCSo"- 
part  of  the  j^iooo  given  by  the  late  Mr.  Ralph  Frcemaii,  lord 
mayor  of  London,  to  set  tbe  poor  on  work  had  come  to  hand.  It 
WS8  agreed  to  employ  it  in  (1)  "  spinninge  for  cloathes,"  (3)  "  bond. 
lace  makeinge,"  and  (3)  "  knittingc,"  "  the  same  to  be  put  into  good 
sufficient  undertakers  handes." 

In  1640  the  assembly  voted  40s  to  Mr.  Thomas  Martin  to  defray 
his  expenses  to  presenting  a  pctttion  to  parliament  against  Sir 
George  Sandcs  for  the  £soo  detained  of  the  late  Alder 
Freeman's  gift  of  ^i^iooo. 


The  Free  Grammar  School. 


MTnan, 


The  Northampton  free  grammar  school  was  founded  by  Thomas 
Chipscy,  grocer,  of  Northampton,  in  1551.  He  conveyed  to 
Lawrence  Mauley,  and  nineteen  other  persons,  as  trustees,  all  his 
lands  in  Holcot,  Colon,  and  Pitsford,  under  cooditioD  that  after 
his  death  they  should  provide  a  fit  master  to  teach  grammar  mtbin 
the  town  to  such  boys  who  might  desire  to  learn  the  S3.me,  without 
any  charj'e ;  that  they  should  pay  a  yearly  stipend  of  £g  to 
the  master;  and  th-it  they  should  p.iy  io».  a  year  to  such  of  the 
boys  as  should  be  nominated  by  the  wardens  of  the  fraternity  of 
the  Blessed  Mary  to  sing  at  mass  in  the  chapel  of  our  Lady 
within  the  church  of  All  Saints.  The  residue  of  the  revenues,  if 
any,  were  to  be  used  for  the  repair  and  maintenance  of  the  pave- 
ment  of  the  market  place,  ^ 

LawreTice  Maniey,  the  chief  trustee,  was  at  that  lime  the  foie-B 
most  burgess  of  Northampton ;  he  had  already  been  twice  mayofi 
and  twice  again  filled  that  office  after  this  date.  fl 

The  appointment  of  the  master  to  the  scliool  was  vested  in  the™ 
mayor,  Wilitfs,  and  commonalty,  with  the  power  that  if  the  school- 
master should  be  at  any  time  negligent  in  his  duties,  and  did    not 
after  warning  within  ,1  month  amend  his  conduct  he  should  forfeit 
20s.,  and  that  if  he  did  not  amend  within  two  months  it  should 
lawful  for  the  mayor  and  commonalty  to  remove  him  from  his  office 


352 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


The  first  reference  that  we  have  met  with  to  the  free 
in  the  orders  of  assembly  is  in  the  year  1565.   when  it  was ; 
tliat    Mr.    Thackary,    schoolmaster    of    th«    free   school,  uii 
successor,  should  be  paid  yearly  j^io — payment  to  be   made  i|nr<^ 
terly    by   the   chamberlains   out   of   the   free  school    rents.  Ibt 
chamberlains   were  to  collect   the  rents  and  place  the  orcrptu  b 
the  use  of  the  chamber. 

The  school  was  then  sufficiently  appreciated  to  require  Ibe 
services  of  a  second  master.  The  assembly  that  met  on  Mjidi 
12th,  1568,  resolved  to  chose  certain  men  out  of  their  numheit  tt 
"  enquire  and  aslce  of  all  men  as  well  off  the  tomic  at  tjRAe 
country  their  benevolence  towardes  a  ussher  for  the  Free  wot' 

The  hrst  bu3tne$»  transacted  by  the  assembly  on  July  lyi, 
1584,  was  an  order  "that  there  shatbc  a  letter  directed  to  Ibc  L 
Bishoppc  of  Pctcrborowe  for  the  procureinge  and  j;elleing  lit  iJie 
vicaredge  of  St.  Mareis  towards  the  maintenance  and  kepciBge  d 
one  ussher  for  the  Teachinge  of  Chyldren  at  the  Freescollc  uudt; 
Mr.  Saunderson,  But  yft  the  same  vicarcdpc  cannot  he  obleyiW 
at  the  Uyshoppcs  handes,  then  yt  ys  agreed  thai  Saundersoo  siaO 
provyde  a  Sufficient  ussher.and  he  to  haveTwentie  Shillingeaaqtiana 
paide  hym  owte  of  the  Chamber  of  the  Towne  Towardes  hi»  tna^ 
tcnance.''  It  does  not  appear  that  the  vicarage  of  this  >l  — " 
church  was  secured  for  the  school,  for  in  1598  iu  small  co<i' 
was  annexed  to  that  of  All  Saints. 

In  iggS  there  was  no  u.ther  at  the  free  school,  and  consequently 
a  usual  payment  from  Duston  manOrof  53s.  4d.  for  the  maintenaiiE 
of  an  usher  ceased. 

The  free  school  was  repaired  in  1605  at  the  charge  of  tk 
corporation,  and  the  walls  about  the  schooljrard  were  mended,  ud 
door.s  with  locks  provided,  so  that  the  yard  could  be  shut  up  evety 
ni^hl  after  sunset. 

The  freedom  of  the  tows  was  granted  for  acm.,  in  rfioj,  la 
Symoa  ^Vastcll,  master  of  the  free  school,  "at  his  earnest  Mle 
and  for  some  special  Fcspects." 

It  was  ordered  by  the  assembly,  in  1612,  that  .Mr.  WasttU 
should  have  the  some  allowance  made  him  for  an  usher  to  autft 
him  in  teaching  the  farmers'  children  as  was  granted  to  bis  pie* 
dcccssor,  Mr.  Saunderson. 


CHARITABLE    FOUNDATIONS. 


353 


The  next  «ntiy  is  an  order  ol  assembly  on  Dec.  isih,  1631  ;— 

bitirimit  Mlieore  Mr.  WosUll  no«r«  «chociletnasier  of  tti«  fr«MetaooI«  In  tbb 
ve  in  rapMt  Ot  bb  •ntkaaat  and  Sldum  whvrbyc  h«  U  unable  to  (uppli«  hit 
M  deafh  gif  my*  Toir  ihe  ckoiea  of  a  iwiw  tchoole-m'  to  succeed  him,  Provided 
ta*j  turn  tbr  profF»  ihcma  btlonpag  while  be  tiveth.  It  b  afieed  and  ordered 
Mr.  SboHand  Recorder  Mr,  Ljiru*  Iho  Towna  Connoell  and  Mr.  BM  HiniMer 
All  S*  ilulbe  inov«d  lo  inqmrr  out  a  mffinvni  crhoola  M'  and  to  prtfer  one 
lUs  aHenUle  ta  btt  ti<r  tbcm  tiked  of  and  ApprovtsL 

Mr  Waslell  had  made  his  will  in  the  previous  August,  be- 
eathing  his    body  to   be    buried   at    All    SainLt.    and    his   small 

ipeity  to  his  wife  Elizabeth,  and  to  his  children  Samuel,  Simon, 
wnah,  and  Mary-  He  did  not  live  long  after  the  assembly  had 
inted  hlni  a  pension,  bis  burial  appearing  in  tlie  All  Saints' 
rtsters  under  January  3tst,  1631-2.  His  son  Simon,  bom  in  1603, 
15  appointed  %'icar  of  Daventr^-  in  the  year  of  bis  father's  death. 

On  April  6th,  1632,  the  assembly  appointed  Daniel  Rogers,  M.A., 
islcr  of  the  free  school  jn  the  place  of  Mr.  Waslell,  deceased. 

The  foUomoK  order  was  made  on  March  37th,  1634  :— 

itcBi  h  n  ajrccd  ihn  thg  floora  and  boitches  and  deskei  betonginge  to  tba 
Dchiiole  tbalbe  forlhintb  repaired  ii  the  chamber  diorge  and  tbat  at  t}ie  aomc 
rga  »l\  othw  nccnsarye  rcpaincons  tb«re  r«inayiufl^  to  doforttw  deddngeabd 
mtfylaf  of  tlie  acboole  shalbe  lutthwiib  done  at  tbe  same  charge. 

It  was  ordered  in  1635  that  Ihe  sum  of  £&  allowed  for  the  main* 
tancc  of  an  usher  m  the  free  school  should  cease ;  but  in  1636  this 
Icr  was  reversed,  and  a  yearly  grant  of  £S  made. 

Id  1640  tbe  assembly  decided  tbat  for  the  future  tbe  master  of 
;  free  school  should  repair  his  own  bouse,  and  that  it  should  no 
igcr  be  done  at  the  expense  of  the  chamber. 

In  1641  it  was  ordered  that  "there  shalbe  a  new  schoolmaster 
tught  upon  for  the  towne  before  the  Anunciation  of  our  Ladie  next 
1  that  Mr.  Rogers  in  the  meane  tyme  shalle  provide  for  himselfe 
lerwise." 

At  ■  later  assembly  of  the  same  year  it  was  agreed  that  Mr. 
irtin,  minister  of  Horton,  who  bad  been  cltsrted  master  of  the  free 
tool,  was  not  to  be  debarred  from  tlie  execution  of  his  ministerial 

*,  DOtwitlistanding  any  previous  order  to  the  contrary-    At  the 

c  time  it  was  ordered  that  llic  free  achool  and  houses  belonging 
the  school  should  be  forthwith  repaired  at  llic  town  charge,  hut 

the  Mihoolhousc  was  henccfonb  10  be  kept  in  sufficient  repair  by 

school  master. 

V 


354 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


Although  formally  elected.  Mr.  Martin  does  not  seem  to  have' 
excrciKcc)    the   office  of  schoolmaster  even  for  the  briefest  period, 
probably    finding    it    incompatible   with   his    ministerial  duties    at 
Horton.      Meanwhile   Mr.   Rogers,    who    was    appointed   rector  of 
Wootton  in  1647,  for  a  short  interval  resumed  the  work 

In  April,  1642,  Mr.  Goodricke,  minister  of  Houghton,  was 
appointed  free  school  master  in  the  room  of  Mr.  Rogers,  provided 
that  he  shall  not  at  any  time  preach  or  use  his  minliterial  ofBce, 
but  whollie  lend  his  Studdies  to  the  proflit  of  the  Schoole." 

la  1643  It  was  ordered  that  a  yearly  payment  of  ^8  be  made 
to  the  usher  of  the  free  school. 

On  December  14th,  1646,  it  was  "  agreed  and  ordered  that 
Ferdinando  Archer  being  wortherlie  commended  by  men  of  bearing 
and  judgement  slialbe  free  schoolemaster  of  the  freeschoote  of  this 
towne,  and  that  a  letter  shalbe  sent  to  him  to  h.i5ten  him  dowoe  to 
take  the  schoole  upon  him." 

In  April,  1648,  the  assembly  voted  ^10  to  the  needful  reparatkm 
of  the  dwelling  house  belonging  to  the  master  of  the  free  school, 
and  ordered  that  the  master,  Ferdinando  Archer,  should  have  yearly 
paid  him  out  of  the  chamber  towards  the  maintenance  of  an  usher, 
from  the  time  he  had  one,  as  high  an  allowance  as  has  ever  been 
made  to  his  predecessors  for  a  like  purpose.  It  was  further  ordered 
tlial  he  have  the  »ame  common  rights  for  cattle  as  if  he  were  a. 
freeman. 

Though  Qot  so  stated  in  the  town  documents,  Mr.  Archer  was 
a  master  of  arts,  and  no  mean  scholar,  as  is  proved  by  his  spirited 
rendering  into  English  of  Dr.  Ford's  Latin  poem  on  tlie  great  6re 
of  Northampton.  It  is  called  "The  Fall  and  Funeral  of  North> 
amptoii,"  and  is  modestly  said  to  be  written  by  "  F.A.,  MA  ,  a  sad 
spectator  of  that  fr^htful  scene." 

After  forty  years  of  service.  Mr.  Archer  became  incapacitated, 
and  the  assembly,  on  January-  3rd,  1695-6,  accepted  Mr.  Styles  as 
usher,  on  the  nomination  of  the  Wentu-orth  trustees,  undertaking 
that  he  should  succeed  Mr.  Archer  as  master  when  a  vaca 
occurred.      The  resolution  is  thug  worded  :^ 

Upon  a  motion  made  at  tbi*  ssiembiy  for  thb  BItcting  &  Scfaoiemutcr  for 
Frae  Schole  of  ihii  Town«  of  Nonhton  And  ■  Note  btiag  read  ta  the««  wards 
following,  vu'.  Wcc  do  conient  ai»d  agree  (!f  Afr.  Styles  iho  Schooletiujter  if 
Buckingham  shall  b«  Klected  by  Mr.  Westtroithi  Truilee*  lo  be  UbImt  «<  At 
Fretsckole  of  IhU  Towne  of  Nortbtoo)    Tlut    the  uid  Mr.  SCjl«t  be  ScbolliBuBr 


CHARITABLE    FOUNDATIONS. 


355 


tbc  Mtd  PrMacbole  iift«r  the  death  o(  Mr.  Archvr,  and  ihc  matter  bring  fully 
led  ll   is  Iha    unanimou*  doirc    of    ihl*   houac   Thai    tli«    «atd    Mr.    Stjilai  b«* 
atiteA  to  come  to  tti«  Town«  and  accept  of  lh«  Schole  u  now  it  Is. 

In  t6g8  ttie  chamberlain's  accounts  sliow  a  payment  of  j^to  to 
Mr.  Styles,  the  schoolmaster.  In  the  same  year  a  bill  of  £i  3».  lod. 
(or  glazing  the  uindon's  of  the  free  school  was  discharged. 

The  free  schoolyard  waUs  were  much  damaged  through  the 
severe  weather  of  the  winter  of  1702-3.  and  parts  fell  down.  The 
aldermen's  court  ordered  the  chamberlains  to  repair  and  build  them 
up  at  the  town's  charge,  and  also  to  attend  to  the  "colering  of  the 
Schoolc  as  soon  as  tyme  serves." 

In  1710  it  was  ordered  that  the  two  bills  of  Mr.  Styles,  school- 
master, for  making  a  doorway  into  the  free  school  out  of  the  south 
c  be  paid  this  time  by  the  chamberlain,  hut  to  be  no  precedent, 

Mr.  Styles  resigned  in  1719;  he  had  been  appointed  vicar  of 
Little  Billing  io  1717. 

In  1720  the  chamberlain  was  instructed  by  the  court  of  aldermen  to 
,y  to  Rev.  Robert  Styles,  late  master  of  the  free  school,  j^4  8s.  yd., 
ing  money  expended  by  him  from  time  to  time  in  repairing  the 
school  windows  during  the  term  of  his  mastership. 

To  Mr  Styles  succeeded  Rev.  John  Clarke. 

At  an  assembly  held  in  September,  174S.  Rev.  Richardson  Wood, 
.A.,  was  elected  master  of  the  free  school  in  the  room  of  the  Rev. 
John  Clarke,  deceased. 

Mr.  Wood  was  followed  in  1764  by  Rev.  W.  Williams,  who 
ve  but  little  satisfaction. 

The  assembly,  in  October,  1 765.  dismissed  Rev.  W.  \VUliam.s  from 
the  grammar  school  mastership  for  uon-residence  and  wholly 
neglecting  his  duties.  In  the  following  month  they  elected  Rev. 
Samuel  Rogers  as  his  successor  "  as  long  as  he  shall  behave  well 
and  conform  to  the  Rules  of  the  said  School."  Mr.  Rogers 
resigned  in  1769,  whereupon  the  assembly  elected  in  his  place 
Rev.  Thomas  Woolley. 

In  1797  the  assembly  secured  a  good  man  for  the  mastership 
in  Rev  John  Stoddart,  who  held  the  office  for  thirty  years,  and 
proved  a  conspicuous  success,  notwithstanding  his  blindness. 

In  October,  1813,  a  committee  was  appointed  to  examine  into 
the  dilapidations  of  the  free  grammar  school,  the  school  house,  and 
all  other  buildings  belonging  to  that  foundation. 

Y  2 


Lii 

■be; 

SfC. 

I 

'     Jo 


* 


3S6 


MORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


In  1817  the  corporation  committee  for  superintending  the 
ment  o(  the  free  Rrammar  school  were  requested  "to  publish  the 
rules  of  the  sa,id  School,  and  the  endowments  settled  for  the  report 
thereof." 

The  mayor,  in  181&,  presented  a  petition  on  August  6U1,  from 
tlie  Rev.  John  Stoddiirt,  respecting  the  repairs  of  the  free  graminar 
school.  The  petition  was  referred  to  the  next  assembly,  and  Mr. 
Stoddart  was  rcque&led  in  the  meantime  to  make  out  ao  accour 
of  the  receipts  and  expenditure  of  the  cstabUshmcnt,  together  with 
a  list  of  the  names  of  the  boys  who  have  been  there  educated. 

At  the  next  assembly  a  committee  of  eleven  members  of  the 
house  was  appointed  to  confer  with  the  Rev.  John  Stoddart.  The 
committee  presented  their  report  in  January,  1819,  and  after  it  had 
been  read  it  was  ordered  "  that  every  further  search  be  made  for 
the  deed  of  gift  of  the  scite  of  Saint  Gregory's  Church  for  a  Free 
School,  and  that  the  Town  Clerk  do  employ  such  person  or  persons 
as  he  may  think  proper  to  make  such  search  in  London,  and  that  the 
committee  do  report  their  progress  to  some  future  Assembly." 

After  the    death   of   Mr.  Stoddart  in    (827,  the  school   fell   m 
much  disrepute  so  far  as  Its  original  foundation  was  concerned. 

When  the  charily  commissioners  held  their  inquiry  there  were 
actually  only  three  free  scholars,  and  the  average  number  for  some 
years  had  been  only  eight ;  but  there  were  many  boarders,  and 
about  thirt}*  paying  scholars. 

The  commisAioners  on  municipal  corporations  in  1834,  r< 
that  the  annual  rental  of  the  estate  was  ;Ci'3-  ^^^  ^^^  3"  annual 
gift  from  the  corporation  of  £4  5s.  (which  can  be  traced  back 
far  as  the  chamberlain's  accounts  go)  brought  up  the  assured 
income  to  j£ii7  5s.  Of  that  sum  £2a  a  year  went  to  the  usher, 
and  the  remainder  to  the  master.  The  master  was  thus  receiving 
nearly  /^loo  a  year,  as  well  as  a  rent-free  house  from  the  origin  J 
endowment,  Intended  solely  for  free  education,  but  the  number  of 
free  scholars  was  limited  to  twenty-five,  who  were  admitted  by  a 
committee  of  the  corporation.  The  commissioners  further  reported 
that  between  1828  and  1832  (both  inclusive),  fifty-two  boys  bad 
been  admitted  as  free  scholars,  and  that  only  ten  of  the  fathers 
of  these  boys  had  voted  against  the  corporation  candidate. 


if 

i 


nc 

1 


The  Corporation  and  Education. 

In  addition  to  their  management   of   the  free  grammar  school. 


i 


m 


CHARITABLE    FOUNDATIONS.  357 

the  corporation    interested   itself   in    other  ways  in  education.     A 
few  references  of  this  character  are  scattered  throughout  the  records. 

in  1557  the  assembly  agreed  that  John  Flowers,  parish  clerk 
of  All  Saints,  should  have  his  freedom  upon  condition  "that  he  shall 
serve  diligentlie  in  the  churche  and  teache  children  and  no  longer." 

This  order  may  refer  to  teaching  children  in  the  church  on  the 
Sunday.  It  is  of  special  interest  as  being  the  first,  of  which  we 
have  any  record,  in  connection  with  All  Saints,  after  that  church 
had  been  placed  in  the  hands  of  the  corporation  by  Cardinal  Pole. 

There  are  several  charity  schools  of  which  the  corporation  are 
trustees.     They  are  united  together  in  one  trust. 

The  Dryden  and  Herbert  free  charity,  or  Orange  school,  was 
founded  in  17 10,  and  augmented  in  1734,  for  the  clothing,  educating, 
and  apprenticing  of  twenty  boys. 

The  Blue  Coat  school,  now  held  in  conjunction  with  the  above 
■was  founded  about  1753,  chiefly  by  the  handsome  donation  of 
j{|i200  from  James,  earl  of  Northampton.  Several  smaller  sums 
and  legacies  being  added,  the  corporation  purchased  an  estate  at 
Bugbrooke.  This  estate  was  conveyed  in  1755  to  the  mayor, 
bailiffs,  and  burgesses,  upon  trust  that  they  should  pay  one-third 
part  of  the  rents  to  the  treasurer  of  the  charity  school,  and  expend 
the  other  two-thirds  in  clothing  such  a  number  of  poor  freemen 
■on  May  29th,  as  the  rents  would  allow,  giving  to  such  poor  freemen 
los.  in  money.  The  indentures  further  directed  that  the  selection 
of  the  scholars  and  the  poor  freemen  was  to  be  left  to  the  court  of 
aldermen. 

To  this  trust  was  also  united,  in  1761,  an  annual  rental  of  ;£26, 
issuing  out  of  lands  in  Leicestershire,  the  gift  of  Gabriel  Newton, 
and  intended  for  the  clothing  and  education  of  twenty-five  poor 
boys,  to  be  called  Green  Coat  boys,  in  the  corporation  charity  school. 

On  November  2nd,  1796,  the  assembly 

Ordered  that  the  Charity  School  Boys  and  poor  Men  Clothed  annually  on  the 
39th  of  May  have  in  future  good  ground  Lamb  Leather  Breeches  not  exceeding 
fourteen  shillings  a  pair,  and  that  they  be  clothed  in  good  Cloth  at  3s.  6d.  a  yard 
aod  flat  yellow  Mettal  Buttons  thereto. 

The  amalgamated  corporation  charity  school  was  in  Bridge 
street;  it  was  taken  down  and  rebuilt  in  iSii. 

Mr.  Philip  Constable  in  his  mayoralty  (181 1)  gave  notice  of 
moving  that  a  piece  of  ground  belonging  to  the  corporation  be 
granted  to   certain    trustees,  for  the  purpose  of  making  a  school 


NORTHAMPTON   QOROUGH    RECORDS. 


Iiouse   for  educating  poor  children,  "upon  the  plan  invented 
Joseph  Lancaster,  and  patronised  by  Her  Majesty  and  the  Royal 
Family."     The  motion  was.  however,  eventually  withdrawn. 

In  the  following  year  Mr.  Justice  Smith  proposed  that  the 
houae  should  co-operate  with  the  Northamptonshire  society  in 
conceding  measures  (or  affording  accommodation  in  the  charity 
school,  in  Bridge  street,  for  the  introduction  of  the  Madras  syiston 
of  education,  for  instructing  the  poor  in  the  principles  of  the 
established  church.  But  a  ballot  was  demanded,  and  the  p: 
sition  negatived. 

The  salary  of  the  master  of  the    Bridge    street  charity   sc: 
was.  in  1813,  increased  from  £jo  to  {.S^  per  annum. 

Amidst  the  very  grave  fault  found  with  the  corporation  by  the 
municipal  commission  of  1S34  as  to  much  of  their  adminifttrationt 
it  is  satisfactory  to  find  that  they  are  commended  for  their  generosity 
with  regard  to  the  charity  schools,  although  only  six  boys  had  been 
admitted  whose  parents  had  voted  against  the  corporation  candidate 
between  1S28  and  r833.  The  corporation  had  recently  spent 
£2200  of  their  own  funds  on  new  schools  and  school  house,  an 
they  contributed  about  £^0  a  year  as  subscriptions. 

Among  the  separate  papers  of  the  town  muniments  is  a  curious 
and  interesting  proposal  for  furthering  education  by  some  would-be 
benefactor,  which  is  unfortunately  unsigned  and  undated.  It  seems 
to  us,  from  a  variety  of  reasons,  to  be  about  the  date  of  1735.  I 
is  here  given  verbatim: — 

To  the  Mugiitrates  of  KDrthoRiplon. 
Gentlemen. 

Having  considered  wlitt  myaelfe  that  there  are  many  Free  School*  for 
teaching  of  the  Latin  Tongue,  and  none  that  t  can  bear  of  to  teache  poon 
children  Co  n*d  Enj^liah,  And  ihn  the}'  mutt  Unt  read  English  bcfocc  tbcy  can 
Latin,  I  have  therefore,  aceording  lo  mv  umall  Talleat.  inteadtd  ta  have  Twent;^ 
children  tmfht  eralLi  in  ro'  Towne.  And  therefore  you  to  getl  tome  anncient  vomaa 
oi  yo'  Towne  lo  iMch  them,  and  I  allow  her  4"  pe*  Aonain   for  her  p4>nei,  not  t^laCl 
tier  to  leacli  no«  more,  but  that  the  taiy  {felt  a*  nuny  a*  the  ean,  aiul  bee  paid 
them.    Only  that  she  iball   te^ch  those  sa  which  fou  shall  acni  to  her  B07M 
Cirlet  of  the  poorest  mens  a*  you  shall  appoint.    And  if  anjr  of  these  90  dja  or  gat 
away  that  you  supply  the  number,  that  soe  3o  may  still  be  taught,  and  therefore  shiO 
tend  Book«s  for  tlirm  to  Lcacn  in  v\x' 

90  Horn*  BooIcm  ao  Bibles 

ao  Primers  20  Caierchtws 

as  Psalters  90  Writing  Boolcet 


{ 


i 


laa  M 


CIIARITADLC     FOUNDATIONS. 


3S9 


1  detire  Ibu  thtj  may  not  b*  gi*ea  them  >U  •(  «n«  tinw  but  m  thay  thall  be 

flu  (or  than,  for  el*e  tbcy  will  spoil  Ihem  before  they  come  to  leirn  them.    I  dedie 

.«!»««  that  thfW  30  CbildccTi  be  taught  l«   writ«.     Thjt    hslfo  an  hoar  af(«  T«na 

bo  Clock  tlu^  go*  to  the  writ«^ng  tchooh  and   continue  thrra  till  12.    And   be  to 

piiare  for  hU  jmIuci  jo*  p«r  snaiitn,  la'  '(!'  the  Qu.iner. 

J  dtiiire  also  30  puorc  men  and  women  Knch  as  ye  ihxll  appoint  may  have  each 
sy  a  leafc  ef  Bivud  If  they  come  to  Church  or  be  not  huuletcd  by  Sicknesse 

And  that  it  may  be  the  better  Bread  for  them  I  desire  that  when  wheal  is  best 
d>oapc,  there  may  be  aoc  much  bought  ns  may  serve  them  for  the  whole  yesre, 
sad  that  it  be  Bakivl  for  thnm  (hul  not  at  the  BAXchoose)  that  bop  it  mny  be  the 
falser,  not  to  be  stficd  for  I  hope  Poore  People  will  not  de«iro  better  Bread  than 
s«  made  of  \Vh«jle,  That  I  present  these  thin|{s  to  yo'  conrideration  and  i(  you 
thialte  6ti  to  take  soe  much  Paines  as  to  see  them  done  I  hope  God  wtU  reward 
jon  for  it  and  I  shall  be  vtry  thankfull  foe  yo'  Paino  and  pray  God  to  give  hit 
Blessing  to  it. 
f  I  d«aif«  that  the  Children  may  be  taught  their  Catechises  twioe  a  weeke  Tueadays 
and  ThuntUys  when  they  are  fiit  10  Learn  ihcm,  Alsoc  when  they  can  read  In  the 
Bibles  that  they  may  have  them  to  Church  with  them  and  that  they  read  them  at 
home  before  theli  Patents  at  least  3  times  in  the  weeke.  tor  Parents  are  ofliymea 
taken  mere  wlih  theii  Ctritdren  madin;,  than  with  that  ihcy  hoar  at  Church. 

And  becauie  I  live  out  <A  London  and  know  aoi  where  to  send  to  the  Cartyers 
hat  yov  wouM  appoint  somebody  In  London  to  call  for  tlie  Bookcs  and  money  at 
mjr  Sonnes  Shop  at  the  Black  Boy  in  [.ombard  streolo  at  St  Clement  Lans  End 
a  Wollendraper  hi.i  namr  M'  Joseph  Smart,  and  that  ihcy  give  an  Acquittance  that 
they  i*t*  ton  many  Bo-okes  and  soe  much  money  tor  yo'  Towne.  And  when  you 
have  res'  it  Thai  you  send  a  wrlteinge  under  yo'  Town  Seals  that  you  wilbe  carefull 
to  ae«  it  disposed  off  accordinK  to  what  1  have  wriiL 

I  Tiie  Bookcs  are  as  before,  and  the  money  you  shall  teccyre  4*^  for  the  Schoolv 
nistfos  and  4"  6*  3*  for  10  buy  Come  for  the  Poore  for  Bread  vix'  at/*  a  Sunday 
w*  conws  to  4"  ^  S*  a  )'eare  ai  ao*  per  weeke  53  weekes. 

I  have  not  tent  money  for  the  writeing  Master  because  he  cannot  bc^in  till  they 
made,  And  then  if  ^u  will  write  to  tne   I    will  send   it    by   whom  you  shall 
agpoiat  to  recdee  It. 

And  thus  shall   I  doe  every  yeare  at  long  ««  God  shnll  ^^ontinu*  my  life,  and 
doubt  not  but  my  Sonn,  if  yon  be  corefnll  10  see  it  done  well,  will  cxinilnue  it. 
^h        And  thus,  gentlemen,  I  leave    all   to  God's    Btcssintc  and   yo'  Care  sad   say   as 
^HDaeid  in  the  first  of  the  Chronicles  39  Chap  14  verse  of  thine  owne  hare  I  {(Ifea 
^B^eo  etc. 

^B  On  March  13th,  1817,  a  special  assembly  was  called  by  a 
requisition  from  twenty  members  of  the  house,  for  the  purpose  of 
considering  the  adYii;abi]ity  of  electing  a  6t  and  proper  person  as 
roaster  of  the'  corporation  charity  schools,  in  the  place  of  Mr. 
Elkington,  the  present  master. 


36ft 


NORTHAMPTON     BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


A  motion  to  appoint  another  master  in  the  room  of  Mr.  Elkington 
was,  however,  negatived  on  baJlot,  by  a  majority  of  48  to  11. 

Tables  of  Benefactions. 

In  the  upper  lobby  of  the  town  hall  arc  a  scries  of  benefactioo 

boards ;  the  following  is  a  transcript  of  the  oldest  :— 

A  Catalogue  of  (hose  mho  have  bine  Worth;  II«n«f*etoR  lo  the  Town  of  North' 
Afjide  in  the  ycarc  ol  the  Rixbt  Wortbr  Ttia  Martin  Maior,  being  tli«  Secod  time 
ol  bU   Mftiorality  Ana   Dni    1635. 

Mr.  Thonui  Chiptey  ihKrc  \ixyot  of  NorthampCon  waa  the  PoviKler  ci  Ihv 
Free  schoule  of  tlie  same  Townc  and  gave  L^ndes  to  muotoine  a  S<l>oolnMster  to 
Httch  Granur  Frtwtia  to  Fr«wnens  Cbllderen.  And  to  maintaine  the  new  Pawcmeats 
And  to  the  Maior  of  North'  for  the  ilme  b«inf  Fovre  Shillinfs  to  sec  the  Mine 
plortned  fcailie  for  euer.  Sir  Tbonus  White  knij^hl  Marehant  Taylor  of  Londod 
baib  ptvrtded  ikjl  there  ihjlbe  pai<l«  by  the  Maiur  of  Conuitrie  out  of 
Landct  euery  fifth  jrearc  Fotirtie  Powndo*  to  be  lent  jtmofipit  foure  jobbc 
men  Ireelie  for  Nyne  yeares  And  from  Nj-ne  yeare*  to  Nyn«  y^attt  far  4uer  unltll  C 
jrasres  be  eapJrcU  And  >ifier  C  yearcs  the  xl'  tu  be  paid  Kill  cuery  fifth  ycarc  And  then 
to  \m  put  out  to  one  Riaa  for  Nyne  yearei  And  so  from  Nyne  yearn  to  Nyne  Jcwet 
for  •uof-  Mr.  ]obn  Quarrlor  gaue  out  of  hit  iUandet  Thine«ne  Sliilllngs  foufpenoe 
p.  annntn  to  the  poorc  of  thii  townc  for  ever.  Mr.  Thonui  Wbeattie  laic  AMennaa  of 
the  City  of  Covenlrie  deeeaued  did  giue  this  Corpor^itian  One  Hundred  Powndi  to 
be  lent  amonxK  tlie  poore  Artificers  here  by  L*  to  a  man  or  under  yeailie  at  6* 
P'  {7  por  pound)  for  euer.  Mr.  Edward  Elmer  bte  Ciluea  and  Crurer  of  London 
gave  fortie  Poinds  to  be  lent  to  eigbt  tcidetmcn  by  v'  3  man  for  ivro  ynan  upon 
atloirance  of  vi'  In  the  Pewnd  yeaitie  lor  ye  poor  for  encr,  and  gave  Undo  to  tbe 
value  of    liij'  p.  anum  to  ye  Hospital!  of  Si  Thotnai  for  euer. 

Mr.  Lavrrence  Baylic  gave  Land  in  the  valiic  of  xl'  p.  anum  to  tbe  Prcesdioole 
For  ever.  Mr.  Tbo*  Craswell  foore  lirnea  Maior  of  thi«  Toe'ne  gave  Fiftie  Pound* 
lo  be  let!  out  and  ye  enccease  theieid  Is  to  goe  to  ye  marlage  of  a  poore  Maid 
yearlie  he  gAif«  JtiiJ*  a  vreeke  to  ye  poore  for  ever  And  xjt*  p.  anum  to  y*  Sdioob  M' 
out  of  hilt  Landei  for  ever.  John  Freeman  Esi^uire  gave  oite  Handred  Povodt  ta 
be  lent  freely  amongst  xxvi  honest  TtaJsinen  by  r' and  it}' a  man  yearely  forever. 

BInied  are  the  dead  that  die  in  llie  Lord  Euen  »oe  satth  the  •piril  foe  they 
leit  from  their  laboiin  And  their  works  fnlow  them.     R«i-el.  Cap.  14.  Vers,  13. 

M***  Agnca  Chipicy  widowe  gave  an  Ann^itie  of  Eight  Pouades  per  annum  to 
go*  out  of  her  fjtnden  for  ever  towards  payment  of  Mteeoes  and  other  cbaritaUe 
u»C9.  Mr.  John  Neale  onco  Maior  of  ikb  (owne  gave  Twoe  pence  a  peire  to 
Thirteene  poor*  people  evrie  Sunday  weekly  for  ever.  Mr.  Henrie  Prior  gave  out  «l 
his  Landed  Thirty  shillinge*  p.  annum  to  the  poore  of  thi*  towne  for  ever  And  mi 
confirmed  by  Sterea  Harvie  Eiquire  tlccesMcd.  M**"  Agnes  Hopkins  irife  of  H' 
Tho.  Hopkini  turice  Maior  of  Ibis  towne.  g.ive  Ixodes  to  ya  vatne  of  itij'  or  therft- 
■bouta  p.  anum  to  goe  to  ye  poore  of  this  lowne  for  ever. 

Mr.  Raphe  Freeman  now  Alderman  of  London  gave  land  to  tke  Fr«e  Schools 
ever  to  ye  use  of  the  Free  Schuol  M*. 


«h 


CHARITABLE    FOUNDATIONS.  361 

Mr.  Ralph  Freeman  aforesaid  gave  aboe  land  and  ye  profFts  and  Rents  thereof 
are  to  bujr  ij>  worth  of  Bread  weekljr  for  ever  to  be  given  to  fourteene  poore  folks 
Mr.  Richard  Elkington  of  Shawell  in  ye  countie  of  Leicest  gent,  did  give  fiftie 
pounds  to  be  lent  in  loane  to  five  poore  Artificers  here  by  x'  a  peice  from  yeare 
to  yeare  upon  allowance  of  xij'.  in  the  pounds  to  charitable  uses  for  ever.  Mr. 
John  Bryan  thrice  Maior  of  this  towne  gave  Landes  to  ye  value  of  xxx'  p.  anum 
to  St.  Thomas  Hospital  for  ever. 

Mr.  Thomas  Burton  gave  One  Hundred  Pounds  to  be  lent  in  loane  yearlie  to 
Tenne  poore  Artificers  by  Tenne  Pounds  a  man  upon  allowance  of  xij'  in  the 
pound  yearlie  to  charitable  uses  for  ever.  Mr.  Wtiliam  Andrew  of  Denton  gave 
an  Annuitie  of  iij'  for  ever  for  the  burying  of  poore  prisoners. 

The  second  benefaction  board  records  the  following  bequests : — 

A  Catalogue  of  those  who  hathe  Worthy  Benefactors  bin  tothe  Towne  of  Northt 
Made  in  the  yeare  of  the  Right  WoH'  Tho  Cotlina  Maior  Ano  Dni  1660.  Sir 
Ralph  ffreemao  Merchant  and  Citizen  of  London  gave  to  the  Towne  of  Northt  y* 
sume  of  One  Thousand  poundes  for  ye  use  of  ye  poore  of  St  Tho  Hospitall  in 
7*  said  Towne  Whereof  there  were  But  only  500*  Received  by  the  said  towne. 

Cuthbert  Ogle  Esq.  gave  100'  to  this  corporacion  to  the  end  they  should  pay 
upon  every  St  Tho  day  yearely  for  ever  to  xxx  poore  peeple  the  sume  of  vi 
pounds  by  4"  a  peice. 

Mr.  William  Knight  Alderman  of  this  towne  gave  50'  to  pay  J  yearly  for  ever 
to  XX  poore  widdowes  by  3*  a  peice. 

John  Evans  of  this  towne  Sadler  gave  ye  sume  of  500'  to  the  intent  y'  30 
yeares  after  his  wifes  decease  the  Towne  should  pay  yearely  for  ever  ye  Sume  of 
jo'   for  ye  placeing  of  sixe  poore  children  to  be  apprentices 

Mrs.  Beatris  Ogle  of  this  Towne  gave  ye  sume  of  4'  to  be  payed  yearely  for 
■ever  upon  Shrove  Tuesday  to  ye  poor  of  ye  towne  and  likewise  20"  more  yearely 
for  ever  to  ye  Minester  of  All  Sts  for  a  sermon  to  bee  preached  yearely  on 
good  ffryday. 

Sir  John  Langham  Alderman  of  London  gave  to  this  towne  ye  sume  of  600' 
the  interest  of  which  to  be  for  ye  yearely  maintenance  of  vi  poore  widdowes  to  be 
added  to  ye  Hospitall  of  St  Tho  in  y*  said  towne. 

Mr.  Nicholas  Rothwetl  Citizen  of  london  gave  ye  sume  of  400'  to  ye  use  of 
jre  poore  of  ye  4  prshes  of  ye  towne  viz. :  All  Sts,  St  sepulchres,  St  giles,  and 
St  peters. 

Mr.  Mathew  Sillesby  once  Maior  of  this  Towne  gave  Severall  Lands  and 
Tenemf  lycing  in  North  of  the  vallue  of  Tenn  Pounds  p.  anum  or  thereabouts 
towards  the  maintenance  of  Two  Poore  Widowes  of  the  Parish  of  All  Saints  for 
ever. 

Given  by  Thomas  Blomley  of  Easton-Mawditt  in  the  County  of  Northton  Gent, 
the  sume  of  100"  to  ye  use  of  ye  poore  of  ye  towne  of  Northton  for  ever.  And 
given  by  his  brother  Brian  Blomley  Gent,  ye  sume  of  50'  for  ye  same  uses  which 
150"  with  100"  of  Mr.  Rothwells  given  to  y*  poore  of  All  Sts  Parish  and  50' 
received  of  Robert  Hesilrige  of  Northton  Esqr.  for  some  of  waste  ground  (sold  to 
him)  adjoining  to  y*    Castle  hills  and  Castle  Orchard  in  Northton    was  Lay'd  out 


CHARlTABte    FOUNOATIONS. 


363 


[Najxir  ucd  Alilenncn  ol  Kontiloci  skoultl  thialc  rooat  coareaient  to  Cluriubla 
wicbtB  Hm  huI  r«wn  RfMrviaf  an  Allovanca  out  «f  y*  Mtna  fct  a  Scfmoii  lo 

Rebecca  CliHonJ  Widinr  ana  Relict  of  M'.  Richard  Ctiffoni  by  her  oill 
19  Jan.  1718  Gave  10  Pouml  P«r  annum  (ftr  ever  oai  of  bcr  boiiM  in  y* 
to  bv  jrearlj  dispoxd  to  a  trlres  ot  widows  of  decayed  Aldctmca  BailiSa 
AmI  alaa  (bvc  io*  Per  nnn:  fur  cvei  out  of  her  haitw  and  Gtound 
G^rlei  Ptricli  to  be  ditpmed  amoni;*!  the  Poor  of  NonhjTnpIao, 
&«airic«  Oflc  Relict  of  Cutlibvrt  Oflt  E^  Itlt  4^  p.  aotun  laaulng  out 
Stsdmll  Hall  in  Parrith  of  AD  Sainu  In  NonhamptOB,  Naw  Imoirti  by  the 
-' ■-  f  St  Hdmiind  Dray*  to  be  distributed  Yearly  fot  c»er  at  Sbrore  Tide  lo  ye 
^Mthaoiptan. 
Ml  Simuel  Wolastoa  ol  Thorp  CorutaMin«  )■  StalTatdihire  ckric  by  his  will 
diid  M  fcb  19  Cka  Z*  gxrc  lifty  ShllUnga  out  of  kia  Lxadt  in  Noitb- 
aDpKM  «bar  the  n««eA*e  oF  hi*  Noiec  Jane  Melaon  (who  died  in  170)}  wbicb 
'    '    '  c  neu  the  North  Gate  there  aow  in  the  poi>e*iion  of  Mr.  John  Perrlvallto 

-od   of    ■moagiit   th«    poor    of  NurtliARipton   Yearly   by   tbc   Miiiii'ter    ul    All 
SeiMt  i'ir:ili  .irwi  the  Mir  or  of  Xortb;i!Tiptoi). 

Mr  Itathew  SlUetliy  of  Northam[>[on  by  bis   will  dated  18  April  iMa  deviled 

(taoeftt  a*het  things)  a  Clo«e  In  St  Edmand*  End  in  Nonhampton  of  $£  a  j'aar 

■^  ^R  of  a  Clow  in  Sc  John's  Lane  of  la  Shil)[n{[s  a  Year  and  ye  Yearly  Sum  of 

^  SUIicgt  which  U  iHulag  out  of  put  of  the  dwvlling  boiue  of  Mrf.  WooUton  in 

^PHind  (o  Cbahtable  uiei  for  ever. 

P  Mr  John  Bolt  ol  Noflhampton  Sadler  by  his  will  gave  $o£  the  Intrrcil 
*h«>f«f  beins  (•>  eloalb  6  poor  Widows  of  the  pariah  of  All  SaloU  In  Noetb- 
'*>ptiifi  in  the  manner  mentioned  in  his  will  which  So£  "wrr  paid  bj  hi» 
^^um  into  the  Corporation  and  a  bond  was  gircn  ihcm  for  the  due  Appticotiaa 
HUm  inierea  thereof  accordingly  on  St,  Thomai't  day  yt^rly  for  ever, 
^Ifr.  Joacyh  Woofston  twice  Mayor  of  Northampton  by  his  Will  daic<d  in  1753 
l^nongst  other  charitable  Be<)Dt4t*)  gave  aoo^  fo«  tlie  D«ne6l  of  the  Corporation 
ity  School. 

'A  fotirth  board  is  thus  inscribed  :— 

Cruwell  Em\  Femr  Time*  Mayer  of  NorthamptoB  (amongsi  other  things) 
twcMy  shitlini!-!  a  year  to  the  Marter  of  the  freeachool  there  which  Is 
\fl  ettt  of  A  hovae  Mnd  Ground  lyinjf  behind  it  in  the  North  End  •■  North* 
nptan,  sod  fifty  pound*  in  monej  the  Loan  or  Intsrest  wbervof  b  directed  to  be 
ivcQ  Yearly  towaidi  the  preferment  of  a  poor  Maid  of  Northampton  In  Kfarriage 
m1  t«  have  Continuance  for  ever. 

Mr.  Ueorxe  Coles  of  Northampton  who  died  In  January  1040  gav«  the  Rents  of 
BOMKi  and  Laodi  in  Northampton,  whi^  are  tww  about  fonrteen  pound*  wtentee* 
Ultlnp  a  yaw  all  el  them  being  ground  Rents  and  will  Improve  at  the  esplration 
f  L«a>n  (£xwpt  Ike  Rem  of  a  honse  oa  the  South  tide  of  Gold  Street   in  the 

P^ltoB  of  John  Cooper  Carpentor)  to  ebarilablo  met  in  Northampton  foe  ever, 
f  f .  John  Evaas  of  Nonhamplon  Sadler  gave  £soo  at  the  find  of  Thirty  Yoafs  alter 
Doaih  the  Lawn  or  leUnst  wherogf  u  employed  In  placing  o^t  Poor  Boy*  tt 
tortbanpiOA  Yurly  Appraotioaa  and  to  have  Cnntintiaoce  for  eret. 


3^4 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


Jchn  Langham  Esq  Aldciman  and  Mcrcburt  o(  London  1654  PJ  j(6oo  into  i- 
Cerporaiion  of  Nortliamittoii  the   Interat  whereof  whkb  Is  seiiled  ai  6  p.  Cent 
to  bo  YcArly  appl^i]  for    ihc    AtutntcnAnct   ot  Sin  poo*  poople    ibore  Siairj  in 
Si  Thomu'i  Hoapiul  llim  aii<i  i*  Mcured  by  Deed*  of  D«raitt  and  Rcdcmife  oa 
BTCEt  part  o(  the  Meadows  called  the  Town  Commoni. 


4 

ttitf 

tin 

:ftn 

4 


A  fifth  board  contains  record  of  the  following  gifts : — 

Williain    StnlforJ    Doctor   o(    !,«■•»  anJ   Cornini»«iy    of   the    ArcMtmeomf 
Richmond  in  ihe  Dioceie  of  ChcMcr  and  a  Native  of   Northamplon  bjr  bb 
(ninonjfst  other  Lcffacjs)  gere  lOO*  for  the  Benefit  of  the  aforeMid  Cofpofslion  ChArit  j 
School  31  Northampton. 

William  Canwrighl  of  Aynho  Esq'  g»vt  50'  In  his  life  time  for  the  Benefit  of  tbe 
sane  Corporation  Charity  Sfhool  at  Northnmpton. 

The  Right  Hunaur.ihie  Jamci.  Earl  of  Norlhairipton  Recorder  there  gsre  aoc' In 
lii*  lifetime  in  1754  Eor  the  Beneiit  of  the  Mine  Chanty  School. 

The  Right  Honourable  Jame^  HatI  of  NoTth.-impton  h^  hU  I^etter  ditected  to  A1 
man  TompMtn  then  Mayoi  daird  li\ay  the  1"  1754  Wuided  io  mannei  as  FoUowt 
d*nr«  yoar  Acetptance  of  one  Thouund  Poundi  to  ba  ipptyad  fof  the  Benefit  and 
bj  Order  of  the  Coiporation  of  N'orthimplon  which  Thouund  Pound*  were  oidered 
by  the  Mavor  Aldermen  Bailifb  and  Dutgcsscs  to  be  and  was  bid  out  b;  Ibeis 
amonffst  other  moneys  In  the  Purehaie  of  a  Farm  at  Butbroolc. 

M'.  Tbonia)>  Chipsey  of  ihe  Tuwii  of  Northampton  Grocer  act  tied  ocrtAia  Land* 
lying  in  Holcutt  in  Northamptonihiro  in   Trui!  Io  provide   an  Honest  and  sufSdeal 
Learned  Maiter  freely  ta  ttnch  Grammar  to  xiich  Children  or  Peraons  of  Preesncn^ 
4f  the  town  of  Northunptan  as  should  wish  or  desire  to  Leani   ttie  same 
without  any  Stipend  Io  be  taken. 

M'.  Ralph  Freeman  Cilixcn  and    Alderman   of    London  and   otker    Bi 
also  settled  terenl   Hoiuee  and   other   Hereditament*  for  the  BeoeEi  of  the  uld 
School. 

And  Paul  Wentworth  of    Lillingaton    Lovell   in    the  Coiiotr  of  Oxod    E*tf 
(be    advancement    of    Learning    Granted   and  charged  hi*    Estate   at    Lillingiti 
Dayrcll  Bucks  with   a  dear  annual    payineni  of  twenty  Pounds  towards  the  mna-' 
tenanco  of  an  Usher  10  be  assistant  to  the  M<wter  of  the  said  School  in   taaehl^ 
the  Scholars  Latin,  good  Writing,  and  Arithmetirk. 

There  are  also  boards  giving  the  following  particulars   relatii 
to  three  special  charities: — 

COLKs    CHABirr. 

By  Indentures  dated  the  30  of  Aug  snd  iM  of  Sep  1640  Geoege  Colea 
Northampton  Gentlennan  did  convey  certain  Estates  in  Northampton  Upon  Tresl 
that  the  Trustees  far  the  time  being  ibonid  distribute  anoiully  oa  the  TbinMUy 
neat  after  the  Purification  of  the  BtesMd  Virgin  Mary  the  sum  of  lo^  vis  jQs  to 
the  Poor  of  ilie  Pjrtih  of  All  Saints  £i  10  to  Ihe  Poor  of  the  Pirish  of  Si 
Sepulchres  where  the  said  Ccorg^c  Coles  lived  and  was  buried  £2  10  ihe  poor  «< 
the  pariih  oJ  St  Giles  t£  to  the  poor  of  the  parish  ot  St  Petet  la  Northasipias 
and  directed  a  Sermon  to  be  preached  on  the  same  Day  tbc  Preadier  to  he  fiH 


a   ■umacni 

if  Froesn«     II 
w   Freely  fl 

tald 
an-^ 


■L 


CHARITABLE    FOUNDATIONS.  365 

£1  And  Upon  further  Trust  to  divide  the  residue  of  the  Rents  etc  among  such 
Poor  Persons  of  Northampton  at  such  times  and  in  such  manner  as  the  Trustees 
should  think  fit. 


I7«*    JanT. 
181 1. 


John  Agutter  Gent. 
William  Marshall  Druggist. 
Philip  Constable  Esq. 
Aid"  James  Miller. 
Aid"  Charles  Freeman. 
John  Hall  Gent. 


At  which  time  the  Rents  of  the  Charity  Estates  amounted  to  £^\  per  Ann. 

Dfi.  Stratford's  Charity. 

By  Indentures  dated  on  or  about  the  16  of  July  1753  William  Stratford  LLD  late  of 
Lancaster,  Commissary  of  the  Archdeaconry  of  Richmond  (amongst  many  other 
Charitable  bequests)  Gave  to  certain  Trustees  therein  named  the  sum  of  Five  Hundred 
Pounds  the  Interest  or  Produce  of  which  to  be  appropriated  by  them  and  their 
successors  for  ever  for  placing  out  Poor  Boys  and  Girls  apprentice  and  for  the  relief 
of  Poor  industrious  persons  belonging  to  the  Parish  of  All  Saints  in  this  town. 

The  said  Five  Hundred  Pounds  was  laid  out    in  the   purchase  of  an  estate  at 

Helmdon  in  this  County  which  is  now  lett  for  133;^  per  Annum. 

The  present  trusteee  are — 

f     John  Agutter  Esq 

.,      .         ,      „  1     Aid  Charles  Freeman 

March  35th  .8,*.  Aid  Philip  Constable 

C     John  Hall  Gent 

Allen's  Charity. 

Mr.  John  Allen  late  of  Northampton  Plumber  and  Glazier  deceased  by  his  Will 
dated  6  July  1822  gave  and  bequeathed  to  his  Executors  HughHiggins  and  Christopher 
Chowler  One  Thousand  Pounds  upon  trust  for  the  benefit  of  any  Public  Charity  or 
Public  Charities  within  the  said  Town  of  Northampton  at  the  discretion  of  the  said 
Executors  who  in  pursuance  of  the  Trust  so  reposed  in  them  placed  the  sum 
of  Nine  Hundred  Pounds  (being  the  clear  surplus  after  payment  of  the  Legacy 
duty)  upon  Mortgage  of  Freehold  Land  in  the  names  of  themselves,  and  George 
Osborn  Jun.  Marmaduke  Newby  John  Veasey  Edward  Phipps  and  John  Brettell  and 
settled  the  Interest  of  the  said  900"  to  be  from  time  to  time  applied  in  manner 
following  Nine  pounds  per  annum  for  clothing  and  educating  Poor  Girls  upon  Che 
establishment  of  Sergeants  and  Beckets  Charity  and  the  residue  of  such  Interest 
Moneys  for  clothing  three  additional  Poor  Freemen  yearly  on  the  29'^  of  May  and 
for  clothing  and  educating  such  an  additional  Number  of  Poor  Boys  in  the 
Corporatioa'^harity- School  as  may  from  time  to  time  be  found  practicable. 

In  the  MS,  history  of  Northampton,  in  the  possession  of  Mr. 
Crick,  is  the  following  full  report,  with  tables,  of  a  committee 
appointed  to  inquire  into  the  possessions  of  the  town   in   1783.     It 


3» 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


maialy  deals  wilh  the    town   charities,  and    seems   to   us  to   be  of 
sufficient  value  to  reproduce  in  exUttso: — 

A  Report  ol  the  Commiltvc,  appvintcd  at  an  Asaembly  of  the  Conracaiioa  of  Ux 
Town  of  Northampionj  htAi  October  a^id,  1763,  compoMd  of  th«  followtBg  memWt 
for  five  of  tl«m")  vU.  "jMiei  Sulion  U*q'.  Mayor,  M' Juilkc  Marehall,  SC 
Jiwttc*  Gibson,  M'  Aid*  Thompion,  Sen'  M-  AU»  Davits,  M'  \nmm*  Hillier,  M'  HUI 
Gudgeon,  M'  Martin  Lninu,  M'  Francii  Havec,  M'  GW  Cliff,  M'  John  C«orfe, 
M'  John  Warner,  and  M'  Richard  AlllMon";  for  the  purpoee  of  petusinf  and 
examining  th«  Abtltacts  and  Aecountit,  than  prodiind,  %ni  btelj  made  o<ut  by  the 
Town  Clerk  for  the  Several  Ettntc*.  belonging  tOL  or  In  Ttun  of  the  Coqiotatioa; 
and,  if  lb*/  thought  nece«»ary  (o  epilomi»c  the  Same,  they  having  Liberty  "  10 
inspect  any  Wrlliuga  or  CrsdenliaU  relating  thereto." 

As  Soon  u  pouible  after  ibe  Vote  of  the  Houk  for  our  AppuJntRient  passed,  we 
procMded  to  invettigatc  the  Buiineos  referred  to  lu,  and  having  procured  from  th« 
Town  Clerk,  Ab*trncli  of  lh«  Several  Charities  in  Trnit  ot,  and  baloncing  10  ib« 
Coepoiation,  lo  draw  th«m  out  uadar  diffarvnt  head),  as  u  Speofiod  in  Cbe  »chodulc 
aniieied. 

Some  of  thsM  Charitio  being  of  such  ancient  Date,  ii  could  mx  be  traced  wko 
tha  Donor*  were,  and  »ocne  imall  Estues  w«  found  eoniolidaied,  amoantiag  to  3i^£ 
per  year ;  which  ha*  been  diitHbuied,  to  the  pour,  at  Chrisiaus. 

There  are  Several  Donation*,  av«r  which  the  Whole,  or  *orne  pattieular  Miwfiwi 
of  the  Cotpontion  are  Appointed  TruiCees,  but  the  Rent*  being  recatvod  bjr  Mti« 
Tnisled,  they  are  not  accountable  (or  the  Application  of  ihein,  stich  as  the  Free 
Cmmmar  School,  John  PHand'a  Gift  of  the  Black  Boy  Ina,  and  John  Or^den'*  of 
the  Gecnxe  Inn, 

The  pattonngo  of  the  Living  of  All  Saint*  was  purchased  of  S'  Thoma*  Litilatoo, 
hf  the  Corporation,  and  is  vest«d  in  Trusiees  appointed  by  th«in,  out  of  *uch  menben 
of  the  Corporation  as  live  lo  that  Parish.  The  L'tet.  to  which  the  rest  of  the  BttatM 
are  appropristad,  ate  set  forth  in  the  Schedule  Annexed  t  by  which  n  appears  that  iftiiii 
ti  tiMin  aro  under  the  Direction  of  the  Chamberlain.  Some  of  the  Warden ;  And  H* 
Aid'  Sturgis,  M'  Aid*  Nowcome,  and   M'  Ald°  Gihwin,  hare  the  leave  of  ike  ether*. 

The  Chamberlain  rpcoivet  Yearly,  Rent  amounting  to  ^jSft  19*.  gd.  out   of  wUeh 
he  pays  to   Different  Charitie*.   and    certain   Expense*.   £20^    131.   jA.,  and   caaad 
expen*et,   (taken    at    an    Average   of    sia  years,   vU.   from  Ml^'haelm*!,    1764,    ta 
Michaelmas,  1770)  to  tlic  airount  of  ififti— the  payments  together  will  be  £^s  ija 
3d,  which  beingdedueted  from  the  Yearly  Receipts,  will  leave  a  Balance  of  j£mj.  9«,6d. 
But  it  appears  to  us  that  at  the  Time  of  Incloilng   Nonhampton   Pie  Ids.  a  Snn  of 
Money  was  wanting  to  pay  for  the   Fence*  Ace,  of  the  Corporation  Allocment.     V 
Goorge  Tompton  therofore  advanced  ^900  upon  Interett  ;  which  h«  is  cofttanted  ihall 
b«  repaid   him  by  the   Rent  arising  from  the   Farrn  demised  to  John  Dunklcy  and  ^^ 
amounting  per  year  to  j£i8a  so  that  till  M'  Aid*  Tompion'*   Loaa  is  paid  off,  tW^| 
Chamberlain  will  have   but  jfii   fit.  fid.  »  a  Balance. — £Soo  of  the  above  ^(»o  li  ^^ 
already  discharged  ;  and  if  the  said  EUnU  aie  appropriated  to  chat  purpoM,  the  \^'holc 
will  b«  paid  in  the  year  17S6:  and  then  the  surplus  of  ^303  will  be  rec*  by  the  Cfcam- 
beflaln.  more  than  he  will  have  a  necessity  of  expending,  unless  the  casual  ITaijai— 
^oold  exceed  the  average  of  the  six  year*  h«i«  given,  namely  ^l8l. 


CHARITABLE    FOUNDATIONS.  367 

We  fomnd  the  Wardens  accounts,  regularly  brought  up,  to  Michaelmas,  178a,  and 
upon  stating  the  yearljr  Receipts  and  disbursements,  it  appears  that  there  would  be  a 
Balance,  annualy  in  Hand,  of  about  £^. — The  present  Wardens  Book  makes  him 
Debtor  to  the  Corporation  ^£73  i8s.  But  as  his  year  commences  at  Michaelmas,  and 
the  poor  at  the  Alms  House  are  paid  Weekly  of  course  some  money  must  be 
advanced  before  any  rents  can  be  due,  and  received,  by  him  ;  We,  therefore,  judge  it 
proper,  that  a  sum  should  be  left  in  his  Hand,  sufficient  for  that  purpose,  and  when 
enough  is  reserved,  to  carry  him  on,  till  Rents,  adequate  to  the  current  expenses,  are 
ReCMved,  we  recommend,  that  the  remainder  should  be  applied,  to  the  increasing  the 
Number  of  the  Almswomen,*  as  we  find  by  the  Accounts  of  the  different  Gifts  under 
his  Care,  that  they  were  all  left  for  their  use,  except  a  rent  charge  of  £&  by  Agnes 
Chipsey,  which  is  left  at  discretion  as  to  What  Description  of  poor  it  shall  be  given. 

Having  paid  what  attention  we  could  to  the  Chamberlain's  and  Warden's  Accounts, 
we  proceeded  to  some  matters  that  arc  under  the  care  of  M'  Alderman  Sturgis,  The 
Sum  of  ;f24,  being  the  Rent  of  a  Meadow  at  Kislingbury,  is  Received  and  disposed 
of,  by  him,  in  putting  Boys  Apprentice. 

The  Rent  of  the  Hide  Land  at  Road,  being  £1$,  is  also  received  by  him,  and 
Appropriated  to  the  same  purpose,  after  paying,  out  of  it,  40"  to  each  of  the  parishes 
of  S'  Giles's,  and  St.  Sepulchres. 

And  a  Rent  Charge  of  £^  per  annum,  is  likewise  paid  to  Mr.  Aid*  Sturgis,  left  by 
Mr,  Gabriel  Newton,  of  Leicester,  for  the  Cloathing,  &c.,  the  Charity  Boys  of  the 
Green  Coat  School. 

Mr.  Alderman  Newcome  receives  ;^8o  from  the  Bugbrook  Estate,  which,  with  the 
Voluntary  Subscriptions,  enables  him  to  support  the  Brown-Coat  School,  for  2$ 
boys,  and  Cloath  30  poor  Freemen  annually,  with  an  allowance  of   los.  each. 

M'  Alderman  Gibson  is  accountable  to  the  Corporation  for  £isj  per  Annum,  being 
the  net  Rent  arising  from  the  Butchers  Stalls  and  Tolls  ;  out  of  which  he  pays  to  the 
Dean  and  Canons  of  Windsor,  £6&  13s.  4d,  to  the  Earl  of  Winchilsea,  ^^31  6s.  8d.  to 
Widows,  .^18.,  to  theCharity-Schoot  ;£io.  So  that  a  yearly  Balance  will  remain  of 
£2^  which  your  Committee  do  not  find  is  specifically  appointed  to  be  appropriated  to 
any  particular  purpose. 

That  Noble  Charity  given  by  Sir  Thomas  White,  now  demands  our  attention. 

There  hath  been  received  from  it  at  different  Times,  by  this  Corporation,  the  sum 
of  £ZjXi  3s.  8d. 

Now  outstanding  on  Bonds,  153  Fifty  Pounds  £y6$Q,  paid  Law-Charge,  and  other 
Expenses  £gos  7*.  8d.  Lost,  by  Failure  of  Securities  £134  15a.  Cash  in  hand  ^£30, 
which  balances  the  Account. 

M,  Lucas, 
Chairman  of  the  Committee. 


*Tht>  recommendklion  It  compiled  with,  and  tewta  poor  weracD  have  been  added  to  the  (onner 
number,    (Original  footoole.] 


Richard  Whites    . 


Purchased  ... 


.St  ]une,   ^69i<AG^,d^T,... 
{.       Do,       ... 


Purchased  ... 


A   Piece  of  Ground 


fGob  ion's  Manor.containing 

I       several    pieces    of    land 

I       dispersed  in   Northamp- 

20th  Apl.,  1662-^       ton     Field      before     ils-^ 

inclosure,  upon  which  it 

was    laid     into     the     6 

following  allotments 


Horse  M.irkei 
Si.  John's  Lane  ,. 

St.  Edmund's  End 

Ouston  ... 

Cow  Lane 

St.  Peter's  Parish 

In    Hardingslone   P: 
nent  St.  Leonard's 

Farm  House  and  H 
stead,  a  Garden 
Stable  adjoi-mg, 
or.  38p.  of  .Arab]'; 
l6a.  or.  ijp,  -Ml 
Land 


8a.  2r.  op.    A  Cloie 

8a.   2r.   I9p.  A  Clos* 

253-  3r-  39P-.  P^rt  ot 

Common 
33.  or.  op.  adjoining 


3rd  part  of  C!p5C,  ijesr  St 

Pulchre's  Churet 
9    Closes,    called     Toa^f 

Wa!l 
Tensmenl  and  Close 


Piece  of  Ground... 
<       do.         do.     ,., 

Farm    House    and    Clt>!« 

adjoiring,    and    itveiraj 
other  Closes 
5  Tenements  and  a  Garden 

Rent  Charge  on  a.  House... 

da 

dg. 
A  TenemenC 

adjoining     .  . 

A  Shop     ...         

Rent  Charges  on  Ground 

A  Pfece  of  Ground 

2  Closes    

Land 

House  and  Yard... 


South  side,  neat  St.  i 

Churcb 
St    Cil«'  Street 


Allotted      irith     EilSi 
Hook 

Ha»1    side,  «xl  St.  Gl| 

Churchvard 
College    Lane  and  Wi 

Bridge 
St.  CalhetiiLe'i    .. 

do.        da. 

Harding^one  puali 


Bridge   Strert,   Kingi* 
Lane,  and  Bactei  I 
Soutfa  Bridge  Foa 

Drapery 


On  Stoc][vel]  Hall 
Baker's  Hil3      .„ 


At  GieatCondntl 
On  the  Wood  Hin 
Dychur<h  Lane    . 

Milton  and  Woottor. 

Pisford.., 
Fish  Lane 


I 


Certain    Annual    Payments. 


Deputy  Recorder's  Salajy  as  Town  Counacl  ... 

Mallei  of  the  Free  Granimar  School     ...  ».  .•,  •■• 

M3C«  Bearer 

Hall   Keeper 

Ktepec  of  the  Commons  ,„ 

Master  of  the  Bridewell  ...  ...  .»  ...  — 

Do.  far  Commons  ...  >,.  ....  ■■•  .<•■  •••- 

Dues  to  t>ie  Vicar  of  All  Saint*'  for  Coramons  ,- 

Rent  For  a  3rd  part  at  Balmsholm  ...  •■•  •■• 

The  Town  Sergeants'  Salaries 

Wade'»  Charity  ... 

S«»on  of  All  Saiats'  for  Attendirg  the  H»yor  to  Cbureh 

Ffeeman's  Gift  to.  the  Poor  in  Bread 

Diitributed  by  the  Mayor  at  Chmtnias  in  Cbarittes 

Luarman  as.  a  weeJc       ...  ...  ...  ,., 

And  for  Food  and  Cloths  for  him        ...  ..  ... 

Almswomen  of  St.  Thomas'    Hospital,   upon  the  fottnilatlDn  of    John 

Langham,  EEiq. 
Town  Clerk,  Settling  the  Chamberlains'  Accounu,  etc  ... 
Chief  Rents  for  Balmsholm  ...  ...  ...  ...  ». 


i  '.i. 

10  »  t 

4  S  * 

6  t  a 

i   n  a 

t  ]  4 

>  «  4 

4a« 

D19  1 

ID  «  g 

6  0  t 

1  a  0 

1  t  i 

a  a  1 

39  0  • 

S  *  " 

1  S  a 

^  u  a 

«n  9 

«  s« 

A  Brief'  Account  of  the  Charities  in  Trust  of  the  Corpokatio 

THEREOF,   UNDER  THE  CARF,  OF  It 


Names  of  [>onors.  \\'licn  ("liven.  \N'Lat  The  Gift*  Canmi  of. 


\\'htre  S.!ua!c 


Edward  El  mar 


24lh  June,  1592     3  Tenements 


Abington   street 


A  Tenement  and  Stable...  Gold  Street 

Agnes   Hopltins      ...     8th   Jan.,    1593     Tenement  and  Garden    ...  St.  Edmond's  End 

Thotnas  Hopkins  ...     and    April,   41     A  Messuage         ...         ...  Near   St.  Peter's  C 

Eliz. 

John  Bryant  ...     14th  Oct.,  1603     Part  of  a  Close    ...         ...  Hardingstone  paiitb 


Richard      Massing- 
berd 


4tb  Nov.,  iSSo    8  Tent menta 

A  Tenement         ,., 

3  Ten-emenls 

Stable  and  Cai(]cr> 

Tenement  adjoining  Tom 

Farm  Homestead 
A  Tenement 
a  Tene-menls 

3  Tenements,  Garden,  and 

Close 
A  Piece  of  Ground 

A  Tenement   and   Malting 

A  Tenement 

Use  of  Wall  

4(h  Nov,,  i68o     A  Close 

A      Tenement,      called 

"  Quart   Pot" 
A  Tenement    ... 
A   Tenement  and   Garden 

A  Tenement     ... 

2  Stables  and  Garden 

3  Tenements,    a   Garden, 
and  a  piece  of  Ground. , 

A  Close 

A   Little  Close,,, 
A  Tenement     ... 

A  Tenement     ... 


Weit  side  Brrai  Lut , 
do. 

Near  CaflEe  HIU 

Dodford  Wood  ... 

St.  Giles'  Street,.. 

Nenland  ... 

do  ■>• 

Newland 
Abinglon  Street... 

St.  Giles"  Street  .. 

Dern  Gate 

Crackbow  Lane  ... 

Bridge  Street 

St.  Thom.iss  Ho5piia 

West  Cotton 

Gold  Street 

Horsemarket 

South  side  Silver  Stre 

do. 

do. 
Mayorhold 

Near  Marvell's  Mills 

Near  Bell   Barn... 
Near   Peacock   Inn 

Drum  Lane 


CHARITABLE    FOUNDATIONS. 


375 


M  Porpoac  Glieo. 


Tcnanti'  Namei. 


Date  of 


Expiration  of         Ann.  Rent. 


j[piratioi 

LcaMi. 


eople,  St.  Thomas's 
^ital 

if  NortbamptoD 

of  St  Tbomu's  Hos- 
il 
do.         

do. 

do. 

do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 

do. 

do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
do. 

do. 

do. 
do. 


rjohn  BI«tsoe 

C  William  Plowman 


asth  Mar.,  1745 
a5th  Mar.,  1747 


35th    Mar., 

1795 
35th    Mar., 

1795 


■oor 


Hospital 

da 
do. 

do. 

do. 
do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 


Edward  Cox      .. 
Thomas  Ager 

Toll  Crosi  and 
Sherwood 

Executors  of  WilL 
Dodd 

Joseph  Walker  .  . 

Edward  Morriss.,. 

lobn  Fox 

Samuel   Summer- 
field   .. 


of      St.      Thomas* 


Josh.  Easton 
lemy  Duke 
ioshua  Snowden,. 
Lev.  Edw.    Wat- 
Idns 
Fox  Walker       ... 

Frands  H  nm  phrey 
Thomas  Ward  ... 

Rev.  Edw.    Wat. 

kins 
George  Landers... 

Eliz.  JeScutt 

John  Edwards    ... 
Andrew  Chambers 

William  Gibson... 

John  Gibson 

Saul  Ashby 
William  Chamber- 

lain 
John  Fox 

Henry  Lococb   ... 
Thomas     Dickin- 
son 
Robert  Morriss  ... 

Robert  Smith 

J.     H.     Thursby, 

Esq. 
John  Lacy 


4th  July,  1769  .. 
i8th  Sep.,  1778 


Mich.,  176s  ... 
3rd  Jan.,  1775... 
14th  Oct.,  1709 
20th  April,  1694 

38th  Oct,  1777 

39th  May,  1760 
14th  Jan.,   1766 

nth  May,  1775 

I  St   June,  1763 

a4th  June,  1763 

toth  Sep.,  177a 


30th     March, 

1773 
34th  June,  1763 

do 
asth     March, 

'773 
6th  Jan.,  176a  .. 

aist  April,  1775 
37tb  April,  1769 

1st  Dec.,  1763... 


30th  June,  1773. 
30th  April,  1777 


Micfa.,  1847.., 
Mich.,  1791... 


Mich.,  1836... 
Mich.,  1797... 
Mich.,  1808... 
Lady     Day, 

1793 
Mich.,  1796... 

Mich.,  1831. ,. 
Lady    Day, 

>797 
Lady    Day, 

1797 
Lady    Day, 

1813 
Lady    Day, 

1803 
5th  Apl.,  1S04 


Mich.,  1794- ■ 

Lady    Day, 
1784 

Lady    Day, 

"794 
Lady    Day, 

1861 
Mich.,  1799  ,. 
Lady     Day, 

1790 
Lady     Day, 

1785 

loth  October, 

1796 
Lady    Day, 

1798 


a  to   o 

3  0     0 

800 
I  9  o 
a  to    o 

4  II  o 
800 

9     O     Q 

096 
I  4  6 
I  10    o 

3o     O     O 

800 
600 
I  O  O 
160 

600 

I  6  8 
6  10    o 

6  10    o 

0  15    o 

1  6    8 

600 
036 

5  10  o 
I  10    o 

t  10  o 
600 


3  10    o 
400 

550 

090 
600 

550 


378    g 


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ALL    SAINTS'    AND    OTHER    CHURCHES.  383 


ALL    SAINTS. 

pHE  church  of  All  Saints,  together  with  all  the  other  churches 
of  the  town,  was  given  by  Simon  de  St.  Liz,  earl  of  North- 
mpton,  in  1084,  to  the  Cluniac  priory  of  St.  Andrew,  which 
butted  on  the  town  on  the  north-west.  It  remained  in  the  hands 
f  the  monastery  up  to  the  time  of  the  dissolution  of  the  religious 
Duses  in  the  reign  of  Henry  VIII.,  when  the  right  of  presentation 
)  the  vicarage  was  transferred  to  the  crown. 

The  rectory  of  AH  Saints,  valued  at  j^22  per  annum,  was 
ssigned,  after  the  dissolution,  to  Francis  Abrey,  the  last  prior  of 
t.  Andrew's,  in  part  payment  of  the  pension  of  ^^50  a  year  granted  ■ 
im  by  the  crown.  An  annual  sum  of  £13  6s.  8d.  was  at  the  same 
me  granted  as  pension  to  John  Ball,  vicar  of  the  parish  church 
(  All  Saints. 

The  priory  received  all  the  offerings  and  dues  of  the  parish, 
it  the  time  of  the  dissolution  John  Brightwell  was  the  collector, 
nd  his  accounts  showed  £8  8s.  3d.  for  Easter  and  Lent  offerings  ; 
3s.  lo^d  for  the  purifying  of  women ;  27s.  lojd.  for  marriages ; 
5    io|d.  for  burials;  and  12s.  8d.  for  small  tithes. 

Neither  vicarage  nor  rectory  were  granted  away  by  the  crown 
p  to  the  time  of  Philip  and  Mary.  The  accounts  of  the  second 
nd  third  years  of  that  joint  reign  state,  under  St.  Andrew's 
riory,  that  the  crown  renounced  their  rights  to  the  emoluments 
nd  presentation  of  this  living.  This  action  was  taken  in  accord 
■ith  the  general  Act  of  that  year,  whereby  all  ecclesiastical 
enefices  that  had  come  to  the  crown  through  the  dissolution  of 
le  religious  houses  were  vested  in  the  papal  legate,  and  afterwards 
1  the  archbishops. 

Cardinal  Pole,  as  papal  legate,  at  the  time  that  he  gave  the 
bric  and  site  of  the  church  of  St.  Gr^ory  to  the  town  for  free 
hool  purposes,  united  the  parishes  of  All  Saints  and  St.  Gregory, 
d   transferred  the  patronage  to  the  corporation. 

From  that  date  the  church  of  All  Saints  was  regarded  as  the 
ecial  property  of  the  town,  and  although  Elizabeth,   at  the  be- 


9B4 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROL'GH    RECORDS. 


ginning  of  her  reigrii  re-assumcd  control  over  those  beac&xi 
assigned  by  2nd  and  3rd  Philip  and  Mary,  the  crown  tcchaicd^ 
presenting  to  the  vicarage  of  All  Saints,  the  benefice  was  of  » Siltle 
value,  apart  from  the  assistance  it  received  from  the  town,  that  tht 
presentation  was  practically  in  the  bands  of  the  corpontiM  d 
Northampton  from  1556  onwards. 

Meanwhile,  the  crown  had  made  over  the  rectory  to  the  UtUcUn 
family,  but  in  1619  the  corporation  purchased  all  the  rcdMiil 
rights  from  Sir  Thomas  Littleton,  and  Katharine,  his  wife,  for  lb 
small  sum  of  j£)200.  At  the  same  lime  the  advowson  of  the  rkuiKc 
waa  conveyed  to  trustees  to  present  such  persons  as  should  oa  cmj ' 
vacancy  be  nominated  by  such  of  the  members  of  the  corponM 
as  should  for  the  time  be  Inhabitants  and  parishioner*  of  the  puiA 
of  All  Saints. 

Borough  records  are  not  the  place  in  which  we  expect  to  fad 
church  details;  but  as  All  Saints  for  some  three  hundred  jean 
was  so  closely  connected  in  every  way  with  the  corporalto, 
rcfcreoccs  to  this  church  and  its  ministers  constantly  occur. 

We  now  proceed  to  give  the  more  important  of  these  reference^! 
and  to  occasionally  illustrate  tbem  from  the  church  books  ai4j 
from  the  public  records.  Remarkably  interesting  as  ia  the  pn-j 
Reformation  biatory  of  this  church,  of  which  comparatively  noUnif] 
has  yet  been  written,  it  is  considered  better  here  to 
ourselves  exclusively  to  the  time  when  it  «-as  emphatically 
town's  church. 

The  Will  of  Johs  Quarrior. 

In  the  order  book  of  the  assembly  is  the  transcript  <:••  'rr  wTII 
of  John  Quarrior,  dated  September  6th,  155P,  when  he  was     <ji  h-tl 
mynde  and  of  good   Remembrauncc,  lauded  be   olmighlte  god, 
yet  sick  and   weake   in    body."     It   is  of   considerable   ioleresl 
showing  the  nature  of  the  iicrvices  at  the  close  of  Mary's  rcifB- 

He  leaves   his   body  to  be  buried   in  the  parish  church  ol 
Saints,  and   bequeaths  ^i.  ^d.  for  his  "  lyenge  there,"  "  and  fd.  1 
my  mother  churcJie  in  Pelcrboraughe."  and  "  fortbe  of  llie  h«ii 
that  [  dwell  noMT  in  yerely  for  ever  a  marke  in  mony  towai 
the  finding  of  a  other   secondar)*   priest  to  singe   in   the 
churche  evermore  if    the  Lawes   wyll    permitt    it  ellt      '        '! 
the  said  yerely  rent  of   a  marke  by  ther   ycrc  be   i^l 
the  poore  people  of  the  saide  town  of  Northampton  at   two  equ 


Jp  NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 

SczmbleT,  oi  Peterboroagfa,  seems  to  have   been   willing  not  aif 
to  wink  at,  bat  co  encourage  the  most  daring  irrcgiiUritin. 

No  ooe  of  intcll^eoce,  whatcTcr  may  be  his  own  tbcolofial 
prcdileclioDs.  can  (ail  to  see  that  the  following  account  of  Ifae 
teadai^  and  cxwtotns  that  prevailed  at  All  Saints  m  ijji 
(which  arc  transcribed  from  documents  at  the  public  itnid 
office),  are  in  distinct  violation  of  any  principle  of  oaiforurr 
to  the  Book  of  Coromoa  Prayer,  and  that  Calvin's  Cotcdiui 
and  the  elaborate  "  Coofcssioa  of  Faith "  are  in  plain  cootie 
diction  to  Church  of  England  teaching.  Apart,  however,  fna 
such  questions,  this  ins^ht  into  the  strict  and  sternly  onleial 
religious  discipline  of  the  Eliiabetban  town  is  curious  and  inirmliaf. 
The  Puritans  certainly  invoked  the  civil  power  of  the  town  tt 
hack  them  after  a  most  thorough  and  eficctivc  fashion. 

TIm  «vds«  utd  ittHnp  in  the  OuutlMS  ef  Nonlkaniitten  utabilahMJ  >ad  «■!  ^ 
bf  Om  tatiKmt  tJl  ibe  Bjnahop  a<  PMerborongli  Iks  note  and  bntbanM  at  iteTovw 
thccB  and  alkm  Urn  Qwamn  »«■*•  JustiOM  ti  pcacK  wkfcin  tbe  uld«  CoMik  mt 
Tixnte  ukc«  moA  laanit  the  v^  dale  of  Job*  1571,  Annaqac  xilj  Re{tft«  EUaMi' 

(■■)  The  liacUifcxnd  pUjretnc  at  Orjajacs  before  tyroe  accuRonad  U  tic(}«B 
b  paU  do«r««  aod  iIm  csbmh  pnyv  tlwn  M««sleM«d  to  be«  tui  b  bnwcht  itmt 
faMo  the  bodie  of  tha  ctnmliie  amaaagM  the  pcopte  bcfon  wh«nie  tbr  mat  rt  arf 
•ccordli^  to  the  Otwne'i  baoW  witJi  sinewfe  pnlow  befan  and  «fter  ifaeSemMnB, 

{a,)  Tbere  b  in  the  cbete  eknrcbe  cvety  tewsdajc  >mI  Ifcandata  from  i>  d  Or 
dodc  BBtill  X  la  the  nwreiDC*  Redd  a  Icctorc  of  the  m-lplures  btgjBn/Bgv  Mife  At 
oonfejaion  in  ik  boob  ef  Comen  pnywr  and  ending  wilK  praj«r,  and  confastiw  «( 
Ibe  failb  etc 

(3.)  Than  b  ia  the  nmc  cbsrelie  eroy  aoadate  and  bolydBte  after  ■ongit 
pnyee  A  SerBkane  lb«  p«o]>lr  lii^iaj^  l^  p*alinea  bcfMs  and  after. 

(4.)  Thai  aerrice  be  ended  io  evecie  paiidic  cbtndie  bj"  ix  of  thn  ckre  in  tie 
nerain^r  evvj  aaadayc  and  twlj  day*  to  tbende  (be  peeph  tnnjt  n*tin  w  Um  MnaM 
to  tba  MBM  chufcb  and  tbal  every  myniatcr  Cye  waniynp*  to  the  parJaluMiara  In  tjst 
«f  ootBCB  prayer  la  repaitc  to  ibe  KrmoD  tlieerv,  cxccptc  tbey  hare  a  tcnaoa  In  tbdt 
enme  pariibe  Churcbe. 

(5.)  That  after  praien  don,  la  tba  t^ioe  of  Semoo  of  CalecUaiDe  nooe  #tt  b 
tfce  itreetea  or  walhe  up  and  dwac  abeoadc  or  oiberwTC  occupM  tbcmidwes  njnd^ 
vppeasach  penaUeaaahalbe  appointed. 

16.)  That  youb  at  ibendc  uf  trninge  prafcr  evetr  Mtidaie  and  lu>l}r4ajv  brfiM 
all  the  elder  people  are  examjaed  in  A  porcoo  of  Cat«yaa  C«er1ihii  wUcb  bf  tta 
fcader  it  expounded  unto  tben  aad  boldcth  a  n  lio>M«r. 

(7.]  Tbai«  b  a  (ananl  Comunyoa  every  <tia(ter  in  every  panifaa  chanSie  witt  • 
Mrmoae  whiche  is  by  tbe  myni«nrr  at  Comen  praier  warned  tawts  tevcrall  Madata 
before  cvcrr  Com  nnroBt  whh  exbottacon  to  tbe  people  le  prepare  fuct^^- 

<8.}    On«  (evnbniclUa  befora  acba  Comuajion,  tba  myniuar  w.n  •■km 

wudaaamakatb  bis  Cireuyl  treat  boena  to  howMia  take  tbcaaina  of  (be  CunuityuAM 


NORTHAMPTON    nOROUGH    RECORDS. 


(16.)  The  c^rrytagt  of  the  bell  Mok  <-ourMi  (corp<«5)  In  tlt«  sbt*Ua,  ud 
biddinEc  pnjen  (or  the  ded  (w'*'  waa  ikcic  u»c4  till  w*^In  tb»  iwoo  jeara)  it 
rcalrayned. 

<I7.]  There  U  licreoder  to  bike  place  Ofdered  that  all  myructen  cf  the  ihytr 
once  euery  ijutitor  of  it*  yttt,  uppon  ocio  mosctliea  wunj^n^c  E7*«o  (Tp«y«r  totbt 
ssid«  townM.  and  thMi«,  aft«r  a  lermonde  in  the  churche  k«rde,  xo  n^nmr 
ihcmsctvci  into  a  place  ftppoinled  vf'hn  the  aajrdc  chutctic,  and  there  pr^atciy  10 
confcrtc  Ufnonjpt  themselves  of  their  tnanncrt  and  Ij'vei,  amonxst  whome  if  aa*  be 
found  irt  fault*  for  the  lyru  ifiiie  extiorT:icon  ii  made  la  liim  amORKot  all  (be 
bccthcrnc  (o  amend,  and  »o  lykcwyse  the  teconde,  tfie  thUd«  lyme  hj  cootpUiac 
iron)  all  the  brMherne.  he  t«  coroyttcd  unto  the  by«happ  for  hi«  eonwcron.  ■ 

The  order  of  the  exprrtse  of  the  mynttter*  W*  a  Confe-nion  oi  the  Fayth.        ^ 

(1.)     Kverie  one  at  hi«   lirat  aDowancc   10    be  of  this  cacrciae,  ihal)    by   tub- 
acripc4n  «(  hU  ownc  Iiandv    decla/v    hU    canaent    in   ChriMca   true  reFigion  m 
brelherne  and  submit  himself  to  the  discipline  and  onJen  of  tbe  lane. 

(3.)  Th(!  TiAnm  oE  oner)-  man  that  nball  speakn  in  thU  cxerciae  fLhalb^e  nrritlen 
a  table,  (01  it  ahalbcc  unUn'fulI  foe  any  nian  to  ipeake  in  ihit  exercise  antill  he 
admylted  to  the  same,  and  his  name  by  his  owne  conienl  re^enred  i*  the  caid 
table,  Nclihcr  shall  ii  be  Lawful  for  any  man  to  occuplc  the  roome  of  the  Kcoftda 
speaker,  execpt  he  have  spoken  in  the  Rnt  placii,  unlcsie  he  be  doircd  by  tka 
moderators. 

{3.)  The  first  spealcer  betynnyng*  and  endinji;*  <«■*  praier,  ought  to  explain  tba 
text  that  he  rcadeth,  then  ho  may  confute  any  fatse  or  untiewe  cxpancicni  yf  he 
kooire  that  the  place  hath  bene  abused  by  any  synuter  interpretacont,  then  may 
he  g«v«  the  comforte  to  his  awdteni,  as  the  place  mynistreih  jufi  occ^jion.  but  l>e 
shall  not  iiprvse.  dilate,  nor  amplifie  Iti^^t  place  ol  srripttirr  wrhcarrof  he  entmCMll 
to  eiiy  comen  place  further  then  the  meanyngc  of  the  snide  »cnte«K:c. 

(4.)  Wtiataoevof  is  left  by  the  iini  epeakor  either  in  expUyntnge  the  i4Xi, 
cither  in  ronftitinj^c.  ntr,,  he  or  th.iie  that  upealoe  afterwarde  hare  IJbertiK  to  toncba 
so  as  they  obscnre  the  order  prcsrribod  to  the  lintt  Bpeaker,  and  tlm  w*oat 
repiatin^  the  lelf  same  thingcs  w"  have  been  spoken  brton,  or  impufne  the  same, 
except  any  have  spoken  contrary  to  the  scriptures. 

(S-)  The  exerdse  shall  bejQ-nne  ymediately  after  nyne  of  the  dodt,  «ftd  net 
excede  the  space  of  tvroo  houm.  the  first  speaker  shall  fully  fynktbe  what- 
soever he  haih  to  say«  w'*in  the  space  of  three  <juaiters  of  one  howcr.  The 
■aeonde  and  thirde  shall  not  cxeede  (echc  one  of  them)  one  quarter  of  an  bower, 
one  d(  the  modcratan  shall  atwaies  make  the  conirlusion. 

(6.)  After  th«  «x«rcise  is  ended  th*  prcsiileal  for  the  tymc  betng  shall  call  tkt 
learned  brelherne  unto  him.  and  shall  otke  their  judjjfementx  conceniyap  the 
espusicon  of  the  icxte  of  Kriplure  then  expounded,  and  y(  any  matter  be  tin 
untouched  it  shalbee  there  declared.  Also  yf  any  of  the  speaken  in  this  exara» 
be  informed  and  convinced  of  any  grevoiu  crymc,  he  shalbe  theiv  and  iheo  br 
reprehended, 

(;.)  At  this  consullacon  it  sbalbe  Lavfull  for  any  of  the  brrtheme  U  tUt 
exercise  to  expound  their  dowbte*  or  queMions  jurtly  collected  owte  of  lh«  pl»ee  «f 
the  scHpturB  that  daic  expounded  and  signify  the  same  onto  tha  pmldeat  loi  it< 


I 


390 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


prohibitj.oa  oC  m&rri&ge,  dbtiaction  ot  me&tes  apparrell,  and  daios,  breeftjrc  <1I  tha^ 
wremcnies  and  whola  ordar  of  pa^slrie.  which  they  call  the  hienrchle  «mM. 
d7velishe  confuiion  csiabli^ahcd  as  i<  were  in  deipite  of  God,  to  th«  itMock<ty% 
rcprocheof  allchmtian  religivn.  Those  (1  say)  «ith  such«  lylie,  vee  «b|B(«,t«n 
and  ultetlye  condemneL 

And  WH)  cociuni  o'mIvh  n"  the  siniplicitie  of  this  piiic  iroorde  of  Gd 
do<*trini!  thereof    (n  auraman  (fiV)  abridgement  of  the  W*  wim  >efena«rl«dg«  I 
contained  in  that  conleniun  of  faith  u*ed  of  all  irbristUni  w*^  in  comonlw  olli 
CTe«de  of  lh«  Apoalellft)  holdtnge   fut  (ai  tbapottle  wuncth)  that  fnithftti 
servMh  to  docirino  and  innruccon  And  that  both  to  edifle  o*  owne  consciences  «**j 
all  unto  nlvacofi  In  Chiist  Jhetui  as  the  alone   fouudnclon  whonon  Chrlso  tmcl 
diurche   ii   built,   he   hinuelf  bein^e   the    chief    corner    Mane,   at   lh«   aame  apoueil] 
witnoielh  in  another  place  And  alio  lo  exhi:>ttr  other  «r^  tlie  nine   towndc  and  ' 
wbolevoiiie  doclcinc,  «nd  lo  conrlnce  the  ^idvaytn,  fjatllie  to  trie  and  caaminc,  atid 
•1m>  to  judg«  thitr«bv  as  by  a  rerteyn  riila.  nnd  perf«cta  touchstone  all  other  doctrine*  . 
whntsoeuer.    And  therefon:  to  this  woorde  of  Gad  wee  humbiyc  snbmltte  tfaclrga  i 
all  0*  doing),  willinga  and  rudie  to  bo  judged,  reformed,  or  fuitbei  ijutnicted  the 
in  all  polmu  of  religion. 

The   trxtraordinary   condition    of  things  that    prevailed    in  UiC 
corporation  church  at  Nortliampton  aroused  gencrat  notice,  and  at 
last,  early  in  1579,  the  formal  attention  of   the    priv>'  council    was, 
called    to    "the    ecdestastical    disorders    and    scandahi    at    North-j 
ampton."     On    April    5th,  their    lordships  wrote  to  the   Bishop  of 
Pt:terlK>rough  requiring  him,  "with    thassistancc   of  some   learned 
tninistt:rs    in    the   places  adjoynlng,    and   CHpecialUe    Mr.    Smitli,  ■ 
parson  ot  niissworlhc,  to  inform  himself  more  particularlie  of  the 
said   disorders,"  and,    with    the    help   of   such   f^ntlcmcn    and  the 
adjoininK  justices  of  the  peace,  to  take   order  for  redress  ami 
reformation. 

The  bishop  excused  himself  from  interfering  on  account  of  bis 
ill  health,  but  on  May  20th,  orders  were  issued  to  the  bishop  (if 
recorered).  Sir  John  Spencer.  Sir  Edward  Brudnell,  Sir  Edward 
Montague,  and  Roger  Cave,  Esq.,  or  any  three  of  them,  to  repair 
to  Northajiipton  for  the  reforming  of  the  eccicaiastical  disorders, 
and  to  call  to  them  Archdeacon  Sheppard  and  the  parson  of  Blis- 
wortb  to  render  assistance. 

In  August,  of  the  same  year,  the  matter  was  further  investigalnt 
by  actual  members  of    the  privy  council,  when  the  lord  treasurer 
and  the  chancellor  of  the  exchequer   were  paying  a  visit  to  Or 
vice-chamberlain.  Sir  Christopher  Hatton,  at  his  newly  built  manuuB 
of  Holdenby  house,    Most   of  the  blame  for  the  notorious  imgit- 
larittes  was  laid  on  the  shoulders  of  Mr.  Jennings,  who  was  tftw 


392 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


both  bscav,  or  «Im  W*  lie*en  fqavvd  «<»it  boiMmuig*  um  lnanlU«tl  •   bhriik  t 
(be  kouK  oJ  God. 

All  thit  waca  In  lh«  ti>w«r  pvt  cpf  lb«  chaacdl  and  wing*  Ihervof  fexevpt  It*  i 
call«eiaie  Mau  are  to  be  ntoomi.  and  qo«  ««ati  to   be   luRerad  tbcR  < 
Kcwna  to  hide  ibe  poopfe  froin   being  discovered  wbslhcr  they  kneele  «  tiw  | 
And  ass  aiK^fa  othn  geMuree  A*  «r«  imoyii«l  by  the  Church  oE  Eo^land   Mont,  it  i 
after  ibe  mrrameDi. 

Ttievestiy  wanla  pluatcnofi*,  whitatnct  ftnd  pimiiv  >>  All  p»rt»,an(I  tl>c*ii 
waM  glasriapi. 

Ttie  ooamvBiaa  csppe  aie  like  conniKm  drinking  bovtat,  and  atr  lo  m  • 
dullice  EasMon. 

Tke  KIngf  Reniontinace,  or  Apoloeie  ■■  (»aniii>E>c. 

Tbejr  want  the  booke  for  his  Ma"  Coioaacon  the  37th  oi  M^rcb- 

They  mat  the  hook  (or  lolleracon  of  lawfal  recreaciont  ftc. 

The  wUriax  uf  ilic  rr^ry  Is  btufce  In  divcn  plaoei. 

It  delh  aot  appeare  ihni«ith«r  the  minister  or  p'ople  doe  revercMlj- boifc  « I 
aaaie  of  the  Lord  J«us  in  tictic  of  divine  serrice. 

Tbe  panahioocn  kav«  im<  yiA  ivcvivcd  the  oobhwuuo*  at  Um  njla. 

The  minister  doth  not  hidd  huUedajva  ke. 

It  doib  not  a|>i>car  10  ui  that  jc  nuniner  doth  lame  bis  lennona  in  the  afi 
Into  1  caiKhatiAtll  my  of  questioM  and  aiuwer*,  bnl  doth  pr«ack 
Us  own*  ttads. 

TbcTc  etc  a  corapaiue  of  cobteing  (Mtclid  boordi  clamped  toc«thn  v^  : 
«M  at  the  upper  rod  of  the  church  under  the  belfr«y,  wr**  defaces  ihai 
Aafck  <nd  b  titt  for  oothlnc  bat  to  hide  tleepcn'    Tbe  pad idoa  before  Ii  ii  il 
too  Msht  and  M  i*  the  «*iitecalt  d  iha  nc^  Mat  to  a  nndar  the  loft. 

All  \k»  *mM  i»  Uw  wiAUe  «p»c«   w^  extend    further  then   the   anckni 
Mil  th*  rat«n  «l  the  mil  at  the  end  of  the  Chaacellon  seaic  daiaai  up  a 
pert  «(  the  loiMW  apeot^  and  ar«  to  be  {Mlled  up  and  mmmd. 

TW  Cha»r<illen  mMc  and  j  other  cmis  damevard  are  too  high  by  ]  te 

TW  Jiahwa  of  the  wits  on  the  oorth  side  of  the  tOMUe  ifutoe  make  j*  tBU% 
hifh  anJ  thadots  fia  to  be  removed. 

TW  H**"*'  *l  lh«  ohnvh  ta  incfieo   In  most  place*  and  broken  in  divm  1 
BWA  pact  a(  k  o(  roagfc  Stoav.  a  er«al  deal  o(  It  fitter  (of  the  gripp  tt  a  1 
tfce*  the  hana  of  Cod,  «^  Mawb  need  to  bv  takeit  ap  and  newe  byd,  and  (b«  ' 
eafflywl  w*  hewiM  ajaaiad  atnae  hnamiac  tkat  saered  ptaea. 

A  fRM  «aate  of  tke  aeacs  la  tke  Kocth  Ue  are  odttMs  pavod   oca   boeiM ' 
iW  hmjioaa  m4  «v-n  <f  tW  Mats  thna  an   brokaa   a^   a  cvett   pan  af  » 
aa^and  MfeHiia  arifki   he  placed   eaatx  cnaa|li  $  llaMS   aoa   nMato   aa 
MiMiii  aa*  of  the  aWa  ipaca  apaa  pWhlm  ep  of  the  tnaiae  «■*  aoac 
tMHi     Thwa  »f«  t«  iha  aald  Ua  r«B  *err  fairooOitfiate  mm*  and  badtcf  «*^ 
»th^  w^kMahaaaertaaoTOdoHtef  the  rbaacall,  asd  worser  placad  in  tl>M(  1 

•ikmm  aMti  la  |h*  tli»<eH  Inm  «i««B  ihay   inne  tvaMnd  ta  I 
Iha  hedar  Mwuaa  to  itaaa  dut  ail  ibem  at  tha  cMMwaa 
ft>M>«i  vkaaWr  tha?^  kavJ  aa  Ma  m  tWracaieaUc  td  (*a  Mna. 

■d  hae«ai  ara  la  ha  manad  lo  tie  ptva  btMi  ^Men  lh*f ' 


394 


NORTHAMPTOM  DOROUGH  RECORDS. 


I 


i»  «tUI  a  doare  leuling  out  ol  the  north  wing  of  the  lower  ctianoeU,  into  that ' 
where  thjt  buildinge  ttood. 

The  churchyard  moundcs  ar«  too  low«  and  difsctiv*  in  dints  pUoM.  and  mudi 
rubbish  lyeth  ag*  the  church  wdlea  to  r*  ruincing  of  the  same.  ^_ 

Th«  windowe*  of  the  churek  and  chaocell  want  f^bieing  in  diver*  placet.  ^M 

The  criikM  !»eat«3  In  (he  sonib  ipnce  and  nil  the  deUces  leanlnge  owar  Into  th« 
same  space,  oi  «ni«  other  »pacea  of  ths  cKurch  do«  annoy  tbe  aam*  and  are  to  ht 
nmavcd. 

The  »uuth  ca»  earner  ol  the  oonsitorie  the  topp  of  a  wiadow  emt  in  tb«  tmA 
II*  or  wing  oE  the   lower  chancell,  and  the  north  tidn  an  all  cn^kad,  want  peinlii^ 
and  repnirc, 
(£  ndorted) 

A  copy  of  the  defectoi  and  decajres 
in  the  church  of  All  Sllntf. 

On  the  Followint^  day,  October  27th,  the  vicar.  Thomas  Ball. 
was  cited  before  the  commissioners,  aad  a  notarial  minute  of  the 
commissioners'  injunctions  to  thrt  vicar  was  entered,  of  which 
the  fallowing  is  an  abstract : — 

"  Notarial  minute  of  proceedings  of  Dr.  Samuel  Clarke  and  Dr. 
Robert  Sibthorpe  commissaries  of  the  Bishop  of    PeterborouEh,  to 
visit  the  churches  of  his  diocese,  in  the  residence  of  Dr.  Clarke  at 
Kingslhorpc.     Thomas   Ball    vicar    of    All    Saints,    Norlhamptoo, 
appeared    before   the  visitors   and    was    admonished    by    them  to 
observe  all  the  rights  of  the  Church  of    Kngland.  and    particular! 
bowing  at  the  name  of  the  Lord  Jesus ;  that  the  communion  ta! 
be  not  taken  away  from  the  cast  end  of  the   cbancel.  and   thai 
be  cancelled ;    and    that    he  appoint    so  many  communions  bd. 
this  aiid  Candlemas,  as  that  all    the  parishioners  may   receive 
same,  and  give  notice  to  the  parishioners  to  come  up  and  rccci' 
at  the  rails,  kneeling  apon  the  bench  there :    aiid    that   he  do 
come  out  of  the  cancelling  to  deliver  the  communion  to  any  (act 
person.    Time  was  assigned  to  him  to  certify  herein  on   the  (irst 
sitting  day  after  the  feast  of  the  Purification." 

Meanwhile,  the  churchwardens  of  All  Saints.  Peter  Karren  aai 
Francis  Rishworth,  were  also  cited    before  the  visitors,  and  wc 
admonished    to   rail    in  the  communion  table  and   affix   a  kneeiinf 
bench  to  the  same;  also  to  remove  certain  seats  extending  ihirieen 
feet  downwards  from  the  cast  end   of  the   chancel,  and  place  tit 
communion    table  altarwisc   close  to  the   east    cod ;  and  also  to 
observe  diligently  the  gestures  of   the   ministers  and  parishioii«n. 
as  to  whether  they  bowed  at  the  name  of  Jesus,  and    whether  the 
ministers    bade    holy    days,   and   turned    their  afternoon 


■a  ^ 


ALL   SAINTS'    AND    OTHER    CHURCHES. 


395 


[into    a   catechelical    way  of    questions  and  answers,   or  preached 
Recording  to  their  own  fancies ;  and  finally,  whether  the  parisliicncrs 
received  the  communion  kneeling. 

On  December  i6th,  1637,  both  the  wardens  appeared  again 
before  the  visitors,  and  not  having  carried  out  these  orders,  they 
Yk'cre  warned  to  execute  the  same  for  the  second  and  tliird  time. 
urgeally,  more  urgently,  and  most  urgently.  On  January  12th, 
1637-8.  they  appeared  again,  and  the  mandate  not  having  been 
obeyed,  they  were  both  excommunicated. 

I       In  the  following  month  the  excommunicated  wardens  petitioned 
Archbishop  Laud,  stating  tliat  on    December  i6th  last,  petitioners 
were    by   the    ordinary's    surrogate    admonished  to  cancel   in  the 
communion  table  before  the  I2lh  of  January  last,  which  petitioners 
were  now-ays  ab!e  to  perform,  by  reason    that  during  Christmas 
fit  workmen  could  not  be  procured.     Thereupon  the   surrogate  ex- 
Hcommunicated  petitioners,  who  then  had  begun  the  said  work,  and 
Hshortly  after  the  said    excommunifation    thpy   completed    it.     They 
Vprayed  to   be  absolved,    and    the    surrogate    refusing,  they    were 
forced  to  make  their  appeal  to  the  court  of  Arches,  where  by  the 
information  of  the  surrogate  they  cannot  obtain  their  absolutions. 
^They  pray  order  to  the  Dean  of  Arches  fi>r  llieir  absolution. 
B       The   petition   was    referred   to  the    Dean  ol  Arches  (Sir  John 
Lambe),  who  was  instructed,  "  if  he  found  the  suggestions  true,  to 
take  order  that  the  petitioners  be  absolved." 

It  seems  that  eventually  the  cxcommun itiation  was  removed, 
and  the  cliancel  for  the  time  rtsarranged.  But  the  Puritans  had 
too  long  had  their  way  at  All  Saints  to  j-icld  the  least  obedience 
to  either  church  principles  or  church  law,  and  the  grievous 
visitation  of  the  plague  in  1638.  again  threw  everything  into 
confusion.  Dr.  Clarke,  writing  to  the  Dean  of  Arches  on  June  i7tS 
of  that  year,  says : — The  sickness  is  sore  at  Northampton.  They 
now  do  what  they  like  in  the  church  service  at  All  Saints.  Some 
very  lately  cut  the  rail  or  cancel  that  was  about  the  Lord's  board 
in  pieces,  and  brought  down  the  Lord's  ubie  into  the  middle  of 
the  chancel.  I  long  since  advised  the  Mayor  and  his  brethren  that 
the  Thursday  lecture  and  sermons  on  Sunday  in  the  afternoon, 
should  be  forborne  in  these  infectious  limes.  Tiiey  then  raised  a 
report  of  me,  that  1  was  about  to  starve  their  souls." 

On  June  jglh.  Dr.  Sibthorpc  wrote   at   length  to  the  Dean  of 
krchcs.  on  tlie  religious  adairs  of  the  town  and  district.    As  the 


396 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


letter   is   curious    in   several   respects,   it  seems   worth   while 
rcprcxluce  it  verbatim  ;— 

Good  S' 

1  Mceivcd  jro'  Itit^r  which  I  thaticke  yon  for,  and  I  ihonelu  Cod  (arcAotia 
those  whom  it  cORCcrnrat  constant,  that  men  ot  mbcheevoai  tmagiratioiu  nujp 
d«iiid«  [iKiin,  nor  dwtro/  oih«ra  at  th«ii  plMsurm. 

I  wish  all  liappincst  to  Ihe  new  married  coiiplv,  and  I  wish  linntly  tli«  a  cva; 
«f  tlioac,  who  (.11  j-o"  »/}  danced  fit  ibc  ivcdding  were  wtU  .iikI  bappily  atatrjv^ 

In  the  meantime  I  fr^y  (or  yo'  and  their  h^thea,  wkom    we  hojM:  ,io  see,  Of 
inteiide  to  roni«  and  tee  before  It  be  lonj. 

Nortliitntplon   rata  conttouo  Mill    laveixtiiog  ft|[aion  idobu;,  yM  Idslt^  thdr 
owae  iuTontioni.     Insomuch  thxt  upon  Thursday  June  Si*  there  wa«   a    pceirlinv 
faat,  by  Mr.  Ball  in  ihe  forenoone,  and  Mr.  S'ewion  in  tlie  aftemoooe  but  neiilw 
ot  them  prftypd  for  any  Arch  Blih&pi  or  B*"  nor  u»ed  the  Lords  prayer  at  conclv 
of  theirs  before  vrmot).  nor  did  Ihsy,  or  ihe  people  uw  any  of  the  rererrnd  ^mbi 
or  rites  and  ccrcin«niea  coioyncd. 

How  thMe  thinga  are  lUte  to  be  amended  except  lome  hinher  hande  roucbafe 
assist,  yo"  may  perceive  by  the  inclojeJ  coppic  of  a  letter,  sent  lu  Du'  Clerke,  tnos' 
m  reverafid  man,  a  Bnchellor  of  Arts,  of  i6  or  17  years  Mxnding  at   tiM   l<as(,  Sir 
Nooke,  Mr.  Baroiu  brother  in  law.  and  a  rhiiplainc  ice,  irherein  yo*  may  be  plaised 
to  obnerve,  that  ii  it  take  not,  a  ii  but  Sir  Nookc  not  tiis  L'  nor  »oe  tnucli  uibe 
Do*  Ch.tplatne.  &c.     If  It  take,  and  be  ill  taken,  either  S'  Noke  was   mUtaken,  or 
otherj  misiookc  iiim,  or  at  the  least    ii  iHust  be  others  docint;,  not  the   L*,  yet 
other*  will  not  doe  it,  they  arc  the  wicked  peraocvt"  and  not  be.     But  be  i| 
may.  1  for  ray  part  am  resolved,  and  soe  I  ihiok  I  have  setled  htm  to  whom  tb« 
was  sent,  except  direct  Dommatind  tome  to  the  contrary. 

S'  yo'  W3E  ple-nscd  to  give  order  that  I  should  )iave  n  cofue  of  the  sentereein 
the  Hij-h  Cummiiaion  ag"'  the  Sussex  church  warden.  (I  think  ot  LewtsI  far 
ntnovflinge  the  Connonion  Table  oiR  of  the  Caneellinc  <K,  yoni  may  pertoiv*  K 
may  conceme  me.  I  bweech  yo'  be  pleased  to  remembet  it.  and  w*  all  if  jflP 
please  ^ivc  M'  Kniehi  »onic  item,  thit  he  may  not  favor  -Miles  Burtnti,  nor  disfafost 
Gare,  or  hi*  proctor  too  much  in  that  came.  It  seemei  r'  bis  wife  had  tomrtioMS 
some  rcUcion  to  a  Durkiit,  and  for  y*  cauie  inclines  to  favor  Mr.  Miles, 
K«tr«ing  l)iat  he  is  a  f|;ood  man,  aad  M'  Knij;ht,  out  of  his  good  nalure,  a»d 
to  her,  is  apt  la  beleiro  as  much,  and  almoU  angry,  that  Garu  proctor  will 
be  pteswiidcd  to  the  like  opinion,  yo"  partly  knoir  ihcm  both,  I  will  oot  dedte 
to  rcciefie  M'  Miles,  for  that  I  doubt  yo"  cannot  doe,  but  I  pray  yo*  (if  fee 
thinckc  flit)  sell  M'  Knight  right,  for  that  I  hope  may  be  done,  and  if  it  fall  in 
yo*  way  to  doe  this  beater  any  other  lawfull  favor  I  should  ilcsire  it,  for  I  perswsdt 
my  seife  he  trill  be  honest  and  thanckefuH  10  his  power. 

Our   Assifes    ut   Daveotcy   are    very  small    by  reason   that  the  gaol  canoe<  t* 
removed    from    Nnrthampton,    nor    is    bsere   any    observable  octurcflts   wotth  tls 
wrighting,  only  there  is   no  new  commission  come  downs,  allboogh  (be  PIKs«i 
Attorney  told  Do'  Clorlce  that  the  L""  Keep«r  solde  him  that  be  (ud  gi*ca  »  mtami 
to  put  S'  Rirhard  out  of  the  Commision,  »tid   the  Clerhe  of  the  Poaoe  lokfc  "fc 
that  he  heard  that  a  warrant    Uy    at    the    Crown    OlSce   Ac.     But   it 


iihn 

1 

nOsS 

Sir     ' 
wl 

>ibe 

tn.  Of 


l*«T 


ALL   SAINTS'    AND    OTHER    CHURCHES.  397 

Etpect  some  fees,  More  thej  are  willing  to  wri^ht  soe  much  as  y*  comes  to,  and  I 
xlicre  some  body  will  be  at  some  charges,  rather  then  it  shall  be  long  undone ; 
aolj  j</  assistance  nuij  be  implored  as  formerlj  wherein  I  hope  jo*  will  not  be 
midag. 

So  with  my  best  respects  and  prayers  I  rest, 
]iDC  39,  1IJ38.  At  yo*  service, 

Dayentery.  ROB:  SYBTHORPE, 

W  Clerke  telleth  roe  y'  the  B.  P.  of  Con: 
asd  Lych:  wrighteth  to  him  that  you  can  tell 
J*  be  Temembord  him,  to  bis  Gr-.  and  I  pray 
ymremembeT  us  both,  asoppettunity  servcth, 
Hd  God  give  the  successe  iu  his  time. 

T1»ese  Tocester   men  on   whose   bebalfe  the  inclosed    letter  was  written  were 

idcctcd  by  Stoner   a   lecturer,    maintayned   by   y*  Londoners  now  gone  to  New 

EogUod,  and  they  have  misapplyed  divers  texts  of  Scripture  against  the  Communion 

Table  standing  at    the   East,  and  theyr  coming   up  to  receive,  with  divers  other 

burden  (that  I  may  not  call  them    blasphemies    or  prophanacions,)  which    1    will 

Kquiictte  yo"  with  hereafter,  fitter  (as  I  thincke)  for   the    High    Commission   then 

[or  any  inferior  jurisdiccion  to  Teforme,  and  so  I  advised  at  the  first, 

R.  S. 

The  Vicars  and  their  Stipends. 

It  will  now  be  well  to  go  back,  and  note  what  the  town  records 
and  church  books  tell  us  with  regard  to  successive  vicars  and  their 
stands. 

At  the  assembly  held   on    October  23rd,  1572,  Mr.    Brian,  and 
Mr.  Manley,  aldermen,  Richard  Wate,  shoemaker,  John  Danbrooke, 
and  Henry   Clarke,  late    bailiffs,  together  with   Thomas   Humfrey 
and  Oliver  Fell,  commoners,  were  chosen  "  cessors  for  the  wage  of 
a  preacher  and  a  mynister  in  All  Hallowes  to  preache  and  teache." 
In  1584  the  assembly  appointed  a  deputation  of  three  aldermen  to 
travel  to  London    in    order    to    appear    before  the  privy  council 
"towchinge  the  gettinge  of  a  raynyster."     The    assembly   resolved 
in  1597,  that  Robert  CateljTi,  minister  and  preacher  of  All  Saints, 
should  have  allowed  and  assured  unto  him  a  stipend  of  j£30  to  be 
paid  quarterly.     It  was  at  the  same  time  agreed  that  a  yearly  cess 
should  be  made  on  ail  the  parishioners  of  All  Saints  for  this  value 
•Jf  £30,  which   was  to   be   paid  by    them    to   the  town  chamber, 
"provided  allwaies  that  >-f  anie  other  parishes   willbe  contributors 
of  their  benevolence  to   the  same  that  then  the  towne  shall  levic 
the  lesse." 

The  assembly  agreed,  in    May,    1596,  to  pay  four  several  sum* 
"f  £i  19s.   due    for    firstfniits    of    the    parsonage  of    All    Saints. 


ALL    saints'    and    OTHER    CHURCHES. 


399 


llowajice  of  the  towne  Chamber  for   the   keepinge  c^  a.  constant 
turcr,"  should  be  paid  quarterly  every  year,  at  the  time  of  the 
"^juarterl/  assembly. 

On  August  17th,  of  the  same  year,  the  assembly  ordered  that 
'a  flore  should  be  made  over  the  hail  of  the  house  Mr.  Ball  elected 
minister  of  All  Saints  is  to  come  to  for  a  studic  for  him  at  the 
Chamber's  charge."     Five  pounds  was  also  voted  by  the  assembly 

I     in  April,   1630,  toM-ards  the  further  repair  of  "  St.  Thomas'  House," 

^■vhere  Mr.  Ball  was  then  dwelling:. 

^F      Notivilhstanding  the  resolution  of  1629,  the  corporation  did  not 

^t  pay  the  firstfruits  on  the  vicarage  of  All  Saints,  and  appear  Lo  have 

endeavoured  to  reeist  the  claim.     In    1634  the   assembly  ordered 

that  wherea.';  "Mr.  Thomas  Ball  now  minister  of  All  Saints  is  now 

L^aestioned  by  the  ShcrifTe  of  this  Countie  whoehath  proces  ag'ainst 

^Bhim  for  firstfruits  of  Vicaridge  of   All  Saints  aforesaid  being  xxij" 

or  thereabouts  It  is  nowe  agreed  'ITiat  the  said  Mr.  Ball  discharging 

the  same  first  fruitesfor  his  quieit  for    the  present  sh-ill    have  the 

name  repaide  him  backc  agam  out  of   the    Chamber   of  this    Cor- 

poration  at  the  next  feastes  of  Saint  Michaell  and  the  Annunciation 

^Bl  the  blessed  Virgin  Saint  Mnrie  by  even  portions." 

^^  In  1635  the  case  of  "  Mr.  Edward  Rcynoldcs  Clcrlce,  late 
minister  of  All  Sts,"  was  brought  before  lite  assembly.  It  appeared 
that  he  had  paid  out  of  his  own  purse  ^^22  for  lirstfruits  upon  his 
institution  and  induction,  and  he  claimed  the  return  of  this  sum 

^^rom  the  chamber,  now  iliat  it  had  done  the  like  for  his  successor, 

HUr.  Ball.  Accordingly,  a  vote  was  passed  by  the  assembly  to 
repay    Mr.    Rcynoldcs  j^ii    the    following    MichaelmaSj   and   j^ti 

^^n  the  next  Lady  Day. 

^B  The  sheriff  threatened,  in  1636,  to  levy  £jo  of  arrears  of  tenths 
^■ue  from  Mr.  Ball  for  many  years  past,  whereupon  the  chamber- 
^lains  were  ordered  to  give  their  bond  for  his  security  for  a  time 
^^0  the  sheriff,  the  assembly  holding  them  harmless. 

^V  Meanwhile,  the  assembly  took  counsel's  opinion  as  to  further 
resistance  with  regard  to  the  tenths,  and  were  advised  to  com- 
promise, with  the  result  that  a  composition  was  made  in  April, 
^4637,  for  ^^45.  which  was  immediately  paid  by  the  chiimber.  It 
^Bpras  also  agreed  that  inquiries  should  be  made  as  to  what  tenths 
were  formerly  paid,  and  every  endeavour  made  to  bring  them  to  a 
tower  rate. 


4«» 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


On    November    i  ith,    1650,    the   assembly   made    the  foOonif 
order : — 

It  I*  agraml  and  otdmd  tbu  M'  Risbwortk,  M'  Sujeani  anA  U*  VfkUtj 
all  o(  them  repalre  to  London  al  the  Towne»   clutgBs  im1   cMdaivanr  m 
secure  the  C  marks  parcell  d  the  fee  fArnae  R<nl  of  tbjt  lawnt  to  flu 
All  Sta  ttw  ant«  having  bene  hcMtorfore  cirdc>i«d  and  patJ  to  him  loc  th* 
tatian  of  bis  meancs,  llie  tame  baag  bcndet  but  veria  nnall.  and  In  |K  la  td  i 
PsrluRMint  for  lbs  raling  uf    landa  in    lti«  parish    tov^nli  tbv  nbtcig  of  I 
mn  to  ad  lo  these  C   mnrkt  ^e:arcli«,  out  of  (hoar  moniin  ta  pljr  W  Brfl 
C"  and  a  cotnpetent  atlowiiiioe  to  an  a»istant  to  him,  as  aha  fu  coeifiLiivil  It ' 
great  and  utwquall  burdeti  in  taxes  for  tbe  ArmiM  by  the  Con'  of  the  CtMKit  ft 
upon  the  towmt,  and  to  gM  aome  rvdreu*  lh«reiii  yi  ll  may  be. 

Tlic  deputation  met  with  some  success  ii]  their  petitioit  lo  M 
committee  for  the  auf>mentation  oi    bencHccs.    On   thci:  ^-'  ~ 
the    fisscnrtbly    anticipated   the  expected   favours,   and   i>n:'; 
town  bailiflfs  to  pay  the  100  marks  from  the  Cee  fann  rent  (wlitk 
had  sometime  belonged  to  the  dean  and  canons  of  Wintbor)  to  Vc 
Ball,  agreeing  to  be  responsible  if  any  damage  or  trouble  accnd 
to  the  bailiffs  for  this  appropriation,    la  Jantiary,  1651-2,  it  m 
reported  that  Mr.  WollaMoii  and  Mr,  Collins  ntuv  goutg  to  Loadtft 
on  their  own  aiTairs,  but  were  anxious  to  take  a  liltJe  pains  towaril 
furthering  the  application  for  augmeDtation  and  for  an  act  £<  pl^ 
liament  with  regard  to  the  income  of  the  minister  of  All  SaioU 
whereupon  the  assembly  agreed  that  they  sliould  be  repaid  wlal- 
ever  money's  tbey  were  out  of  purse  in  tliat  behalf. 

In  May,  l6s2,  the  required  grant  from  the  au^mcntatia 
committee  and  the  necessary'  act  or  order  of  parliament  had  bca 
obtained,  but  the  assembly  still  thought  it  most  prudent  (o  pm 
yet  aDother  resolution  agreeing  tu  hold  their  bailtfTs  harmlcj*  9 
any  harm  or  trouble  arose,  apparently  even  at  that  time  nuaoiHU 
ing  the  duration  of  the  then  civil  power. 

In  December,  1654,  /^20  -was  delivered  by  the  auembly  ont  tf 
the  cliambcr  into  the  Itands  of  the  mayor,  by  him  to  be  paid  U 
Mr.    Ball,    minister  of   Alt   Saints,    which   was   av«n!  '     '  Ud 

year,  "and  allso  Tcnn  more  to  be  paid  out  of  the  (.  ^tta 

the  countrie  ministers  towards  the  maintenance  of  the  Icctore.' 

In  1656  a  petition  was  pr<^)oundcd  to  thr  assembly  tnutrhoi^ 
the  maintenance  and  support  of  the  ministers  within  the  towi 
and  for  delivering  two  letters  to  the  Lord  Cicypoolc  and 
Gilbert  Pickering,  Mr.  Gifford  was  desired  to  1. 
presenling  and  performing  of  the  same  at  the  town's  .....,^. 


ALL    SAINTS'    AND    OTHER    CHURCHES.  40I 

In  March,  1657-8,  it  was  ordered  that  the  money  expended  by 
the  aldermen  (the  usual  wine  bill)  with  the  lecturers  about  the 
settling  of  the  weekly  lecture  be  paid  by  the  chamberlains,  and 
that  for  the  time  to  come  the  minister's  dinner  that  preacheth 
shall  be  paid  out  of  the  chamber.  At  the  same  time  it  was  resolved 
that  the  mayor  and  aldermen  prepare  a  tetter  of  thanks,  in  the 
Dame  of  the  whole  assembly,  to  be  "presented  to  the  Lecturers 
to  signiBe  their  thanks  to  them  for  their  readiness  in  this 
businesse." 

In  1689,  Dr.  Conant,  who  had  been  vicar  of  All  Saints  for 
nineteen  years,  resigned  the  living  by  reason  of  old  age,  and  a 
sharp  contest  arose  as  to  his  successor.  Mr.  Ward,  of  Old,  was 
Supported  by  the  mayor  and  some  of  the  aldermen,  "but  y"  major 
part  was  for  M'  King,  wherefore  y"  Mayor  put  some  out  of  y* 
house;  but  at  last  there  being  2  to  i  for  M'  King  he  is  minister." 

The  following  memorandum  is  inserted  amongst  the  orders  of 
assembly  for  1717: — 

Mem''  The  Mayor  BailiRs  and  Burgesses  who  are  of  the  uaual  Assemblys  of  the 
■aid  Towne  of  Northampton  and  of  the  parish  of  All  Saints  in  the  said  Towne  did 
at  a  Meeting  In  the  Guild  Hall  of  the  said  Towne  on  the  seventeenth  day  of 
May  1717  name  and  choose  the  Twelve  persons  whose  names  are  wrote  in  the 
margin  hereof  (being  all  of  the  said  parish  of  All  Saints)  to  be  Trustees  of  the 
Rectory  Impropriate  of  the  Parish  Church  of  All  Saints  aforesaid  with  the 
Appurtenances  of  the  Advowson  or  Right  of  Patronage  thereof  in  the  room  of 
those  deceased,  the  old  Trustees  being  all  dead  except  M'  William  Else. 

M-  John  Wallis  Mayor 

M'  John  Agutter  Alderman 

M'  John  Clatke  Grocer  Alderman 

M'  John  Scrivcn  |      Present 

M'  George  Tompson  J     Bailiffs 

M'  John  Chapman 

M'  Stephen  Winston 

M'  Gyles  Twigden 

M'  Richard  Jeffcutt 

M'  Thomas  Ives 

M'  Nicholas  Jeffcutt 

M'  John  Clarke  Burgess 

The  next  extract  is  thoroughly  discreditable  to  the  corporation. 
On  December  15th,  1746,  they  actually  agreed  to  sell  the  next 
presentation  to  All  Saints,  to  help  to  discharge  the  debts  they 
owed.      We  are  glad   to  find   that  a   respectable  minority    voted 

BB 


Bailiffs 


408 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


against   this   propodilion,   and   iQsi»t«<l    upon    the   oaunes   of  tbc 
division  list  being  recorded : — 

Thu  lh«  nevi  Avoyclaarc  or  Turn  at  the  Vlcangv  ot  AU  Salnti  in  ibi*  Tom 
b«  mIJ  vrttli  all  cvnvniuit  a(M«d  lot  the  belt  priot  ihu  Oid  bi  naaoitMy  fot  «t 
lud  for  th«  tamo  and  ihat  (h«  motwy  arising  by  th9  nid  nU  b»  spplfwd  is  uid 
lawardi  paying  oR  *rid  dLtchargine  the  Debts  owitig  bjr  and  rram  rhc  Corpontioii 
■nd  tbal  tli«  Major  and  Aldernivn  tor  iha  tirno  b*ieg  or  the  major  pan  ot  then 
havn  pow»r  lo  corcnict  and  agjM  with  anjr  p«rsoR  or  panoiM  for  iha  Sale  trf  tke 
next  Avoydance  o(  the  «aid  Vicaragv. 

For  tailing  lh«  n«xt  Turn  ir«>« 
M'  John  Gibion  M'  Jnhn  Pn«ham 

M'  T^oinaa  Peach  M'  Joicph  Matthew* 

M'  Edvard  Bayly  M'  G«orge  Bayly 

M'  John  Fawiiti  M'  Jawph  Wcjcon 

M*  GcofgB  Haye*  W  Richard  More 

W  William  Willlamton       M*  Thoma*  Gurney 


Againit  •cllir.g  tti«  next  Ten 
M'  Peter  Dunkley 
M'  Luou  Ward 
M'  Robert  Ttym 
M'  William  Fabcaa 
M'  John  Woalnon 
M-  KutOB  HuMi 


M'  Grorgc  Tompson 
M'  H«nry  JcRcult 
M'  Thomas  Greenuugh 
M'  Samucll  Lambell 


Matthci*  JoUand 
William  Gibton 
William  Peach 
Robert  Lucai 
Richard  Wall 


John  Tcbbutt 
Tbomu  Gtmo 
Henry  Craawelt 
Richard  Day 
William  OeborM 


N.B.— W~  ClacVe  and    W"  More  appeared,  but  were   Neuters,  they    rAiKf 
t«  vMe. 

At  an  assembly  held  in  February,  1749,  power  was  conferred 
on  the  mayor  and  such  aldermen  as  reside  in  the  parish  of  All 
Saints  to  sell  the  next  avoydance  of  the  vicarage  and  church  of 
All  Saints,  to  be  sold  for  jCyxj,  and  not  under,  "to  be  p>aid  dotm 
in  payment  of  the  corporation's  debts,"  and  a  bond  be  ^vcn  to 
the  purchaser  that  the  clerk  whom  he  shall  nominate  shall  be 
lawfully  presented  to  the  said  church  within  three  calendar  months 
after  the  church  shall  be  void  by  the  death  or  resignation  ol 
the  present  incumbent.  It  was  further  ordered  that  John  Froil. 
the  present  curate,  or  his  relations  and  friends,  have  the  preference 
el  purchase.  As  a  sequel  to  this  it  may  be  recorded  that  John 
Frost  was  appointed  vicar  in  1751. 

The  following  entry  occurs  in  the  orders  t^  assembly  on  Marck 
30th,  1794  : — "  The  Rev*  Edward  Miller  clerk  having  been  appcHiiCcd 
to  the  Rector)'  of  the  Parish  Church  of  All  Saints,  ordered  that  die 
expenses  of  the  Presentation  thereof  forthwith  be  tlefrayed  at  tlir 
expense  of  this  Corporation," 

The  assembly  recommendr^  on  August  loth,  1802,  that  wlienerer 
there  may  happen  any  vacancy  (or  a  vicar  of  All  Saints,  that  tb^.^ 


ALL    SAINTS'    AND    OTHER    CHURCHES.  403 

mayor  for  the  time  being  call  a  meeting  of  the  members  of 
the  corporation  resident  in  that  parish  as  early  as  possible  for  the 
purpose  of  conferring  together  as  to  the  nomination. 

Mr.  Hall's  MS.  history  relates  that  in  1804  the  Rev.  Mr.  Miller, 
the  vicar  of  AH  Saints  dying,  a  sharp  opposition  took  place  to 
q^x>int  a  successor.  "  The  candidates  were  Mr.  Stoddart,  the  late 
curate,  and  Mr.  Tufnell.  the  present  one.  The  election  lies  in  the 
members  of  the  corporation  residing  in  the  parish,  of  whom  46 
voted,  26  were  for  Mr.  Tuffnell,  and  20  for  Mr.  Stoddart;  the 
latter  had  the  misfortune  to  lose  his  sight  some  time  by  reason 
thereof  many  thought  him  ineligible  in  consequence." 

In  August,  1811,  the  corporation  subscribed  25  guineas  in  aid 
of  the  subscription  to  the  vicar  of  All  Saints  for  his  afternoon 
sermons. 

A  like  sum  was  voted  to  the  vicar  "  as  a  donation  "  in  October, 
1813,  and  again  in  1S14  and  1815, 

The  chamberlain's  accounts  for  1822  have  the  following  entries ; — 
"  Paid  the  Rev*.  W°.  Thursby  for  expenses  attending  the  presen- 
tation and  induction  to  the  living  of  All  Saints  by  order  of 
Assembly,  £150.  P*  do.  gratuity  voted  to  him  by  Assembly, 
£36  5s.  od." 

In  the  same  year  the  assembly  gave  leave  to  the  vicar  of  All 
Saints  to  exchange  the  parsonage  house  in  Gold  street  for  one  in 
Marefair. 

In  January,  1824,  the  assembly  voted  £1000  to  the  patrons  of 
the  living  of  All  Saints  "  to  enable  them  to  purchase  and  convey 
a  Messuage  or  Tenement  and  Premises  in  Gold  St  in  the  occu- 
pation of  Mr.  Richard  Henry  which  they  have  agreed  to  purchase 
as  a  residence  for  the  Vicar  of  All  Saints." 

After  the  passing  of  the  Municipal  Reform  Act  in  1835,  the 
living  was  sold,  in  accordance  with  its  provisions,  for  £1000  to 
Mr.  Lewis  Loyd,  from  whom  it  passed  by  descent  to  the  late  Lord 
Overstone,  and  subsequently  to  Lord  Wantage,  the  present  patron. 

The  Fabric. 

The  assembly  held  on  January  i8th,  1594-5,  ordered  a  cess  of 
j^io  upon  the  parishioners  of  All  Saints,  towards  the  repair  of 
their  parish  church,  then  "greatlie  in  decaye." 

On  April  4th,  1595,  it  is  recorded  in  the  order  book  that 
since  the  last  assembly   "a  great  parte  of  the  churche  is  fallen 

BB  2 


■4«H 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


downc  by  means  o(  the  grcate  wyode  that  happened  oo  Thanitf 
(twentieth  of  March)  last  past  So  tliat  the  same  cesstncot  of  Ioiik 
pownde5  is  thought  to  littJe  aad  iasuCficient  for  to  sett  the  saaem 
repaire  agayne;  therefore  it  is  nowe  agreed  by  conaenl  ol  tla 
asscmblyc  that  the  same  Sccsstncm  shailbc  made  Slxtenc  pcnrodti 
tliirtene  shillingcs  and  four  pence."  Mr.  Thoous  Craswell  m 
chosen  "Surveyor  of  the  Workc." 

With  regard  to  this  storm.  Freeman's  History  says — "a  {ml 
wind  made  such  spoil  ot  houses  and  trees,  that  no  man  durst  nt 
his  foot  out  of  doors :  and  having  blown  many  large  stones  (net 
the  top  of  All  Saints  church  on  to  the  leads  just  before  seniot,  it 
forced  the  roof  down  just  over  the  mayor's  scat  so  ihit  if  Mr. 
Mayor  and  his  brethren  had  come  never  so  Uttle  sooner  ihcy  iai 
been  all  in  no  little  danger  of  death." 

In  1617,  extensive  repairs  were  done  to  the  steeple,  and  it 
1619  there  was  again  an  alarm  aroongst  the  congregalioD  lest  "At 
Church  would  have  fell  in  Service  Time  when  a  gale  of  wind  m 
blowing." 

In  the  great  6re  of  September  3oth,  1675,  the  church  of  AH 
Saints  was  in  the  centre  of  the  coiiflagraiion.  The  fabric  mat 
reduced  to  such  a  ruinous  condition  that  nothing  save  the  pcetos 
west  tower  and  its  supporting  arches  could  be  re-used,  who  iU 
successor  was  designed. 

Through  the  energies  of  Dr.  Connnt,  funds  were  rapidly  nisei 
for  the  re-building.  It  was  re-opened  on  September  5ih.  1^ 
when  Dr.  Lloyd,  the  bishop  of  Peterborough,  preached  the  ^eniHU. 
This  date  is  commemorated  in  the  inscription  o\'er  the  mayor'* 
seal,  in  the  corporation  pew ; — 

Anno  Maioratus  II*  Ricardi  White  anno  Dom.  1680. 

The  names  of  the  contrjbuton*  to  the  neu'  rhurch  has'c  been 
already  given  in  a  previous  section,  after  describing  the  grrai  fire. 

Henry  Lee,  in  his  manuscript  account  of  the  towo,  dcscriba 
the  new  church  as  built  upon  the  foundations  of  the  old  chanccL 
adding  tliat  "  many  tliought  the  old  church  as  large  as  hs 
catliedrals."  A  good  dedl  that  has  Dot  been  printed  mi^hl  ' 
brought  together  about  tlie  fmc  old  cruciform  church,  but  thtd 
not  the  place  for  such  an  efiori.  In  the  pnicecdini;s  iif  t 
Northampton  ami  Oakham  Arckiicciurdl  Society  (or  18S1  u 
paper  on  this  church,  about  which  a  word  of  wammg  must 


ALL    SAINTS'    AND    OTHER    OIURCHES. 


40s 


ivcQ.     The  paprr  is  illustrated  by  an  enlargement  from  a  fradu- 

it  and  wholly  tmaginalivc  view  of  the  old  town  of  Northampton, 

rbicfa    was    Uisued    in    a    local    publication    printed    in    1S44,    to 

jmcmorate  the  entry  of  Queen    Victoria  into  the  town  on  her 

ray  to  Burleigh  house.     It  is  surprising  that  neither  the  writer  of 

be  paper,  nor  the  draughtsman  of  the  view  of  the  church  detected 

ie  clums>'  fraud. 

The  great  west  portico  of  the  church  was  not  completed  till 

>l*     Extending  the  whole  width  of  the  church,  it  is  supported 

>y   twelve  piltflrs,   and   surmounted   by   ao  effective   balustraded 

Knicc,  ornamented  with  urns. 
In  the  winter  of  1703  it  was  decided,  with  questionable  taste, 
beautify  the  summit  of  the  tower  with  an  open  cupola  and  fane, 
e   vestry  passed  the   following  resolutions  on    April    17th,  and 
I     June  iglh,  1704,  respectively: — 

^H  TW  the  new  Cbi»ch*Fanlen>  talie  to  thdr  uainance  nicb  workmen  ftDi)  AnlMs 
^Hft  tbe^  ilul)  ihiek  litt  To  cocuxtult  tivd  advice  atwut  lettiAg  and  fixinj;  the  Coplla 
H^kpan    the   Steeple   with   the   Ftoe    upon   the    tame    (or    the   be«   adrsatage    and 

OrnunoU  at  ibm  place. 
1^^      Thai  Alil«nnaa  Selbjr  Aldennaa  Catlini  and  Aldcmun  Ivory  M*  Henry  |*Reiit 
^^bd  M*  GeoTEe  Hayes  Aantu  the  prcMnc  Church  Wardens  in    ihe  ordering  of  the 
^^Baac  aed  Setlinf  Ihe  same  upon  the  Cupiloe  on  the  Steeple. 

J^     No   sooner  was  the    portico    erecred    than   its  convenient  and 

attractive  shelter  gave  rise  to  an  unexpected  trouble  and  expense. 

It  became  a  favourite  resort  of  the  troublt;sorae  boys  of  the  town. 

^■In  1702  an  order  was  made  to  allow  one   of   tbe  Serjeants  twenty 

^plhillings  a   year   for   "  cleering    the    Portico    and    Churchyard  of 

boyes."    This  order  was  afterwards  vacated,  but  it   was  renewed 

It  Christmas,  1705,  when  ten  shillings  was  voted  to  William  Wallis, 

Serjeant,  "for  his  care  in  clecring  the  churchyard  and  Portico  of 

boys  and  others  plapng  there  till  Easter  next." 

On  November  J^tli.  1707,  tlie  vestry  invoked  legal  diocesan  aid 

>r  a  like  purpose,  the  minutes  of  that  date  containing  the  following 

ilry:- 

It  It  th«  dedre  of  ihic  Vrattr  to  iM'  Ch4ecet!o«  ihal  be  n>it!  m4ke  an  Order  to 
^^ieen  the  Portlcoe  uf  the  Church  of  idle  hoyet  and  loote  fellows  playioc  there  and 
^Hb  aoen  tbt  uma  to  he  afitzed  oa  Iha  ehureh  ion  in  tha  potico. 

'^      Further  resclulions  of  the  vestry  about  this   period   show    that 
ie  condition  and  use  of  the  portico  gave  continuous  trouble.     One 
the  last  resoIutioDs  on  this  subject  that   appears  in  the  parish 
U  dated  February  ist,  1713,  when  the  vestry  ordered: — 


4o6 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


That  Witllftm  L^ne  be  allowed  aivil  paid  Twenty  ShJUiD£s  p«r  *nn.  b^  llu 
Church wiirden*  [or  clcerjng  th«  PorticM  of  th«  ehurch  and  keeping  the  »tne  clearx 
and  litt  Item  bojm  aiid  Ioom  fellowi  and  ilsoe  the  fravc  stoots  aad  cbunfajrvd. 

'I'hc  court  of  attlcrmcn  l»ad  tlie  same  matter  before  them  in 
1717,  when  it  was  resolveil  to  spend  five  shilling!)  of  tbe  town 
funds  in  cleaning  the  portico  of  All  Saints  of  "dirt  and  filth," 
and  to  request  the  vestry  to  ace  to  it  being  kept  decent  and  free 
from  noisy  boys. 

On  September  4th,  of  tbe  same  year,  an  order  was  made  for 
gilding  the  ball  and  fane  on  the  top  of  the  cupola,  and  at  the  same 
time  an  assessment  of  J^6o  was  voted  towards  the  repairs  of  the 
churcli,  and  ihe  co^t  of  erecting  the  cupola- 

The  town  now  desired  to  further  ornament  the  imposing  portico, 
and  strange  to  say,  decided  upon  placing  in  the  centre  of  the 
parapet  a  statue  of  Charles  II.,  in  memory  of  his  having  given  "a 
thoui^and  tons  of  timber  towards  the  rebuilding  of  this  cliurch,  and 
to  thiR  town  seven  years  chimney  money  collected  in  it."  The 
mayor's  accounts  for  171 1-12  show  that  £4  15s.  was  spent  "  in  placing 
up  King  Charles  and  tinding  all  Materials  and  Laborour,"  £4  10s. 
"for  Stone  and  Carridge"  of  the  same,  as  well  as  14s.  to  "  Joha 
Huching  for  Cullering  King  Charles."  Not  satisfied  with  colouring 
or  painting  the  presentment  of  the  merry  monarch  over  the  mam 
entrance  to  the  House  of  God,  tbe  corporation  in  the  next  yt^ 
paid  £2  "to  Mr.  Hunt  for  Gilding  y'  stature  of  King  Charles  y* 
Second,"  Faint  traces  of  the  colour  and  gilding  .•itiil  remain.  The 
king  is  absurdly  represented  in  (he  impossible  combination  of  a 
Roman  toga  and  greaves,  with  a  long  curling  wig ' 

Immediately  below  the  statue  of  the  king  are  tbe  ro>-al  arms, 
efiectivcly  carved  in  bold  relief.  Though  the  town  paid  for  the 
statue,  the  parish  paid  for  the  arms  upon  the  porticx),  Mr.  Hunt, 
receiving  for  the  latter  £g  by  vote  of  the  vestry  on  April  2isi,  1712. 

Thk  Seats. 

But  little  is  to  be  gle-ined  from  the  assembly  orders  with  regard 
to  the  seating  of  the  church  before  the  great  lire. 

At  the  assembly  held  on  March  15th,  15G6,  it  was  ordered:— 

That  (ram  this  daje  forward  that  hathe  ben  bajrifs  off  the  tmrne  of  Nonhampoa 
•hall  >yt  or  pUc«  thefesclRci  on  the  Sonda)^  or  other  fMtivall  diim  in  ih#  hoij  d 
the  Parish  ChuTL-)i  of  All  Sajrutet,  but  in  the  llin«  of)  ibc  Redioge  of  the  fMnnd 
seriptares  or   sermaiu   ia    the   chapelt   herMofor*   apoinled  in  pain*  of   forfaktMe 


I, 

I 


4o8 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


That  tha  MasUr  of  tlic  Ffccschoolc  sad  iIm  Scfaollcn  bov  aaghl  bf  te  li 
pUc«d  in  tkt  Chaneell  and  thu  noe  others  litt  in  ihc  Cluncell  csi^ep<  ywiaM  ^ 
Quality  that  tin  in  the  2  front  >etu  ol  ibe  Cbanccll  And  that  all  ocbet  peMM  it 
nmoTcd  cm  vt  tbe  Chaocell  bj  lh«  Chimb  OScets. 

In  1702  Uie  following  qu^oc  order  was  i>asse<l  by  the  vauj, 
to  prevent  daughters  sitting  with  their  mothers  :— 

Tbit  Locks  be  patt  on  the  S«at  <)ftrM  of  the  Btilifi*  wivu  ud  4S  mm  ■ 
fc«epc  out  jiouDf  majrdt. 

The  odious  habit  of  appropriated  pc«-s  and  class  dt»di)Ctioa  d 
church  led.  as  in  this  case,  to  a  dblinction  being   inide  b««ea 
married    and   unmarried    women    solely    on    the   score   of 
There  are  several  cases  on  record  where  girls  were  adu^i.,.  ...^- 
in  ecclesiastical  courts  for  sitting  with  their  mothers.     A  cax  ti 
recorded   in    Archdeacon    Hall's   Proceedings    in   the   Dii<tu  4 
London,  of  a  young  woman  named  Hay  ward,  ''that  she  bctogt  1 
young  mayde  sat  in  the  pewc  with  her  mother,  lo  the  great  oAtax 
of  many  reverent  women ;   howbcit    that   after  I,  Peter  Levia,  Oe 
vtcar,    had    in    the    church    privallie    admonished   the   said  7Q>C 
mayde  of  her  fault,  and  advi&cd  her  lo  sitt   at   her   mother's  pnc 
dore,  she  obeyed ;  but  now  she  sits  againe  with  her  motber." 

The  assembly  ordered,  on  December  aist,  1736: — 

That  M'  BiuuBfton  ha^-e  nntbority  andar  the  Covpentlon  Seil  if  their  CmmI 
shall  atlrise  tbe  same  to  be  ocreuat;  to  pray  a  Lioenae  or  F'.*culEy  coiweni(|Ai 
P*ws  in  the  Parish  Churcfa  of  All  Saints  in  the  said  town  now  tn  Obputo  b«>Nl 
tli«  Cor{>oratian  and  corns  of  ibe  ParithionerK 

Amongst  the  corporation  deeds  are  two  official  Uceoset  • 
faculties  for  corporation  pews. 

The  first  of  the«e  is  dated  July  18th,  1735,  and  is  a  liccnteftc 
the  mayor,  deputy  recorder,  and  aldermen  of  the  town,  as  weHn 
their  wives  and  widows,  and  for  the  town  clerk  and  other  op 
poratton  officers,  to  sit  in  several  seats  of  the  parish  churdi  gl 
All  Sainu. 

The  second  document  is  dated  July,  1737,  .ind  is  a  faculty  'naiA 
to  Joseph  Matthews  and  John  Pasham  for  appropriating  scveo  f>c«i 
In  the  church  of  All  Saints  to  the  use  of  themselvt»,  the  aldennov 
bailiffs,  and  burgesses  of  the  town,  and  their  wives  and  wtdcnn 

.\t  the  beginning  of  the  nineteenth  century  there  arr  vancrat 
entries  in  the  chamberlains'  accounts  for  basses  and  haSMxks  il 
the  mayor's,  aldermen's,  and  aldermen's  vrivea*  seats. 


4ia 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RF.CORDS. 


Hiomu  Can  SV  Johb    Labnim  Church  VfAiAeat  aad    alber  parabimcn 
there  pre:i«iit. 

Wee  doc  Oftler  that  the  30'  (ormerly  ordered  to  aa  Or^aabt  b* 
Uw  future.     And  Ihitt  the  many  for  (ha  B*ll  and  graT»  be  appr6p<iiMd  mMJ 
ks  totmttlj  5'  beinx  drculy  pajd  by  the  CburcbwardBU  t9  ba  allowvd.  I 

Thirteen  signatures  follow,  but  it  is  stated  ia  a  Diargtail  I 
tha.t  this  order  was  made  and  entered  after  Dr.  King  vttA  f( 
the  vestry.  I 

On  the  following  dajr,  the  vicar  and  churchwardens  repii£| 
the  foregoing  statement,  and  appended  this  strof^ly  mj 
cicpianaior)*  note ; — 

Mamorandum  that  tb«  Order  beiiiiii{  d4te  the  seaveotecuh    da?  «f  dA  tM 

March  and  uid  to  b«  otdand  bdore  D*  Kins  MtniMer  and  M'  Tlumu  Oa 

M'  John  Labrain  CboTcbmnkn)  Is  a  nocorknis  1ai*ity  And  Wcr  the  Uioili 

Chnrchvnrdeiu    of    the    (wmh    of  All    Saint*   >■>     Northamptaa    da    hoekf  I 

and  declare  that  Wm  were  not  pment  at  the  time  of  enleting  ihe  nid  (Ml 

Ibat  it  *ru   cat«rai  aad  Ordered  cootraiy    t«   oar   approbation   and  Cw^ 

coiuequentl]'   if*ry    Ule^.      Wknaca    oitr    handi    tha    18*    day    «f    Maidi 

Dai  1706. 

Bcnia  Kias  DD  Vic 

Tboniaa  Carr     1    _.      .        . 
,  ,      ,    .  t  Lhurvhwrardeafc 

Jo«B  LabmiB      J 

In  tS26>27.  the  mayor's  accounts  have  an  entry  of  jfSlli 
"  singers  at  All  Saints  church."  This  was  probably  on  tbeoocH 
q(  the  anniversary  sermon  for  the  Society  for  the  PropapliM 
the  Goq>eI.  when  the  corporation  were  present  in  state,  b4| 
"musicians  and  constables  atteadtng  the  procession"  ^£3  lis> 

la  iStS  the  assembly  sut>scrit>ed  ^,30  towards  the  al 
the  orgao  g^Ierr. 

Tlte  on^an  was  re-constructed  in  1844  at  an  expense 
In  iS$4   the   instntment   was   unfonuoatriy  removed  to 
chamber  on  tbe  north  side  of  the  chancel. 


The  Bells. 

In    1583.   tbe  asscfably   ordcrtd    a    cess    of    ^^30 
parisluoncrs  of  All  Saints,  towards  tbe  re-casting  and  re-h* 
the  fins  of  six  bells,  aod  seem  to  have  nade  u;< 
n«)ai»ite  dcliciescj-  out  of  the  chamber  or  comnt:       .       ^-^-^ 

The  c«cvontMtt  mewed  tbe  chimes  of  All  Saiou  in  ti 
gaw  a  ncvr  mc  in  1809. 


ALL    SAINTS'    AND    OTHER    CHURCHES.  413 

The  interest  that  the  town  at  large  took  in  the  bells  of  the 
incipai  church  was  only  fair,  for  the  bells  were  frequently  used 
f  order  of  the  assembly  for  town  as  opposed  to  parish  purposes 

I  is  ezempliBed  in  several  other  parts  of  this  volume. 

A  vestry  resolution  of  1696  shows  that  the  parishioners  at  that 
me  allowed  the  third  bell  to  be  used  as  the  school  bell  of  the 
nra's  free  school : — 

Oidsred  that  the  s^^  Bell  be  Rung  bj  the  Under  Sexton  this  Summer  at  Six 
[  the  Clock  in  the  moraing  to  give  notice  to  the  Free  Schoole  Schollen  to  haiUa 
iSdiooIe,  and  hotn  Michls  to  Lady  da;  at  seaven  of  the  Clock,  except  on  Sundaji 
MB  u  formerly. 

In  1677  it  was  ordered  by  the  vestry  that  every  one  should  pay 
IS.  to  the  assessment  fund  of  All  Saints  "for  tolting  and  ringing 
he  great  bell  upon  the  death  of  any  person,  to  be  paid  to  the 
liurchwardens  of  the  said  parish  before  the  said  belt  toll."  A  like 
ifder,  with  regard  to  the  great  bell,  was  made  at  the  same  tia»e 
ly  the  assembly,  to  cover,  we  suppose,  the  case  of  non-pari&bioDcrt , 

At  the  like  date,  the  vestry  resolved  that  the  charge  for  tvltit^ 
od  ringing  the  fifth  bell  should  be  2s.  6d. ;  out  of  which  bd.  rfsn. 
)  be  paid  to  the  sexton,  and  4d.  to  the  clerk. 

A  further  order  was  made  in  1680,  to  the  following  trflfn  . 

That  the  grvK  Beli  shall  b^n  to  Toll  for  those  that  are  tu  Ik  iz-iTyvr.  f  \^ 
■Dr  of  the  Iniiuti^::  to  the  funerall  and  that  it  shall  toll  one  ful.  r.^u'  Mf.  w. 
ore.  But  if  'J>t  Bell  :oI>  longer  then  there  shall  be  payd  two  ^billiiig:  «:•'  i.>t,iranr 
'  iioar  for  er^rj  h:i-r  ii  shall  toll  longer  And  in  like  maiiiic  w  »::>.>;■:  ^r 
'»t  for  the  ;'■'   'BiZ     Ard  the  small   Bell   not  to  toll  longer  tiiai.  -j'^    :,-j^- 

A  chaH'-cb^  orcer  was  made  in  1681,  wht:r»:yy  r  »»i  ;-;oi.,.-r 
lat  ''  the  'S'iri  zi^V,  be  tolled  gratis  for  poort  prt&o!*^! 

In  1695  'S--j^  "rit  bell  was  re -cast,  when  th*:  \Kt:--  ^'-^-i-r  .j 
Urch  z6th  — 

That  M'  B.^j-7   I.m  ;he  first  Bell  and  returne  w«igD'    Ji/-     -•■-•*.     ••J'      .^     , 
payd  ffiftT  i^\.=  ri  for  casting  the  same;    And    iw,    lu*     ;»      fc— -.^      ,      ,_ 

II  and  wtipr:  ■ic  -w-ighl  returned  and  payd  for   ov  ii^.  ',;,.!•.      !.•-„,_ 

"  Mr.  &s,^-7      of    this  resolution,  wuui'.    ;*■     yi*-    t      -     '— ^^  - 
the  wei--cri:'^t;  Xorthamptonshire  t*tl    ■.-jmu--     <     '.■^-  ^    ^ 
Toward:  li^  *r.d  of  the  same  yea'  !;••    ^uj.-      ■.    ,-     .  ,- 
nging.     A  ^ar_-h  cess    of    l.'ifj  wa^  luo'^-    ■.  ■     ..^     ^- ^,^ 
)rk  being  iic^*  -7  one  "'.loiir  bar.*--'  ;m-    -j^::x-^..- 
Bagleys  r'»:--i=-iz:£  of  tiie  irs-  ;«:    '.ji.,-   a'-    >.!..     -^ 
r  it  was  agai:^  r--t£s:  ii    ^Tci 


414 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


[q  1782  right  new  bells  were  placed  io  the  tontr, 
Giapman  &  Mears,  of  London.    They  arc  still  io  use. 

Customs  of  the  Church,  i6w>. 

Ilie  eailicst   of  the  cburcb  books  dow  extant   is  of  tWJ 
i6ao.    It  opens  with  an  elaborate  statement  as  to  the  use  the  < 
was  to  be  put,  followed  by  an  interesting  record  of  the 
of  the  church  ttiea  prevalent. 

ThU  Books  vns  pnrriitA  for  Iha  psridw  church  of  All  Saincsei  <■  te] 
of  Northampion  afor««ide  th«  Tentlt  (Ur  of  December  la  tbs  ywut  of 
C«ii  t63o  and  lit  th«  EightOMith  Year*  of  the  nigti  of  o«r  UHm%ifa 
Junn:  aoil  of  ScotUod  the  foure  ind  fl^iibi  M*  Heat;  Chadwkke 
maibr  of  ibe  sudo  towne,  Mr.  Jetcauali  L«wi>  then  being  *'K«r  of  ike  uidb) 
John  Danbj  md  Jolui  Hnrbert  beii^  thaa  church uanieni  ol  the  ssldc 
tbe  reconlin;  of  all  such  amncieat  cnstomes  and  duetieia  at  hare  bene 
iMed  and  taken  within  the  s&i<I«  parish*,  iiut  alto  fat  tbe  ncofding  af  ih>1 
of  the  Cberchwudens  and  Sid«unen  ytai^f  to  be  chowo  for  Ibc  ttaie  yir^« 
of  aU  >uch  Munee  cf  moaejr  u  shill  hereATtcf  be  AfTced  upon  at  aoy  mbi  fHl 
nrpaire  of  tbe  chnrck  aforeukle,  or  any  ollice  burineas  conoernlag  I  he  ' 
aod  of  all  tucbe  pUte  carpelts  c«»Uoas  candleKlcliei,  surpleMB  aiNl  ccba 
metuee  bvolte*  &n4  other  iii««e«Mee  at  an  l]«lop£tRf;  to  tha  aanae  Chioch,  t»  1 
end  thai  a  may  appear  in  whose  tTme  any  of  tbe  tame  thingn  are  or  ikalbrj 
ihu  due  uiisfactioa  majr  be  made  to  (be  parJilic  for  ibe  name. 

Pint  it  b  the  aancieat  cuatostie  of  ihb  paiiibc  that  iIm   Cburcb* 
appoint  aaMea  ia  the  Cherdi    tot  •very  aam   manyod   Caupla  and  haecl 
placing  of  tbeir  wnna  xij'  which  ther  doc  emplore  abour  the  repair*  tJ  thel 

U  tbe  cane  paniei  crvwc  to  better  auttu  or  come  Io   beara  aajr  «l 
aid  townc,  tbev  ttw  to  be  maond  higher   to   atba    watei  antirdin|   it 
cvatioB  of  th«  ChDKbwaidafia  af  tbs  sana  pariahe  vithoet  anjr  (urthe* 

3.  Iteoi    K    i*  th«   Macteat   oMane    of    (bu    panth    to    aim 
pMuhoacf  thet  ibal)  ^  in  tUa  puithe  ihu  baih  ib«  gma  Bell  latleil  fcrt 

And  mom  la  the  SextOA  nj*. 
Aad  ta  tte  CIvto  Ti* 

And  far  aevroM  ef  aMAac  pariaW  thai   kaib   the   creal    BaO   af 
toladfar  bfai  if. 

Aad  Boc*  to  the  Soum  tf . 
And  M  the  Oarbc  kI^. 

4.  ItMR  if  aay  of  Ehe  nU  pahaba  be  bar7«<l  ta  tha  aiid  cbwch  t*«y] 
brwiki^  «p  ci  tba  cnMad  uwardi  the  lepake  «f  iha  aiait  cfcandi  li)* 

Aad  Dm;  an  ta  brine  iaia  tha  Biae  Ckwck  iritbu  ana  MKwath 
hM^M  a  aafc  li  wt  fniaiioat   to   cow   tbe  suae   (»*«.  or  «la  to  pay 
pwtoha  (or  tb«  lapaka  rf  iba  aaaw  chodi  nij>  Bif. 

»     kaai  ii  KV  Of  Ife  WW  V«ii^  >■  ^7*4   ia   tha  Cbaiiwd 
hraH1-»(  «p  ^  iha  fiBafld  lawanla  tte  n^ab*  of  the  Mtd  dMRb  *)■ 


4(6 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


Rotnanists.    The  ihacksgiving  service  for  Augaii  jtb  was  tW 
relative  to  the  "  Gowrie  House  Conspiracy  "  of  August,  1600,  v. 
it  was  alleged  tlial  the  king  ynsa  saved  frDra  aAsasstnatioo. 

In  1625  it  is  staled  ihat  all  the  goods  above  named 
livercd  to  the  new  churchwardens,  with  the  addition  of  "a 
broadclothc  carpet    with   a   grene   silk   fringe  for   the 
table  and  oac  Lyoncn  Clotlie  for  the  same  table." 

In  1627  the  same  inventory  was  repeated,  nith  these  addiliw; 
"Three  wholl  ladders,  two  broken  ladders,  one  sledge  hatncr  oi 
twoe  cables  or  pullie  Ropes  of  six  score  two  pennies 
one  grcnc  velvet  cushifl." 

In  163s  "  four  hrre   poles,  one   and   twcntie   formes,  ami  I 
Tomes  of  Homilies"  are  the  additions  to  the  usual  tnveolory:  uA 
in  1636  two  fire-books  arc  also  mentioned. 

The  altar  plate  of  this  large  church  was  singularly  poor, 
ding  10  the  1621  invenlorj-,  the   vessels   being   all   of  pewter 
the  "  iwoc  silver  bowles."    Al  the  visitation  held  on  Octobo* 
1637.  the  commissioners  reported  that  "The  Communion  cops 
like  drin king-howls,  and  ordered  them  to  be  made  chalice  d 

Dr.  Conant,  tbe  vicar  of   All    Saints   at    the   time  of  the 
married  the  daughter  of   Dr.  Reynolds,  Bishop   of  Norwich, 
bishop  died  in  1676,  and  in  1G77  his  widow,  who  came  to  lin 
Northampton,  gave  to  her  son-in<law*s  churcli  "Two  large 
two  large  chalices  with  their  covers,  two  dishes  for  tbe 
of   offerings,  and   two  dishes   for   the  bread,   to  be   used 
celebration  of  the  Eucharist,''  alt  of  siUxr. 

During  the  latter  part  of   Dr.  Conant's  iiKumbency,  the 
and  vestry  sanctioned  his  employment  of  a  curate,  though 
authority  pledged  themselves  as  to  the  salary.    The  curate's 
in  16&0  was  not  forthcoming,  and  he  appealed  io  vain  both  t9 
assembly  and  to   the   bbhop.     At   the  iTStry  meeting   bckl   Apd 
27th,  1681,  it  was  ordered:— 

TluK  wKu  iBMcjn  tm  nhad    bjr  lk«  oJe  ot  lh«   fMCeiUita  ol  tW  biw* 
taken  down  in  tba  OmrchjKd  im   paid    tu  M'  CoUtsi  the  CKxtv  torod* 
off  Ut  unucs. 

A  far  more  questionable  method  M-as  adopted  iDward»  ru«C 
Mr.  Collin's  stipend  in  the  following  year      It  is  Strang*^  '<•  '^'^ 
that  the  bishop  should  hare  connived  at  the  scandal  of  *■■: 
Holy  Commurihio  plair  for  »iich  a  puipoac,  though  Miv   Reyauidi 
recent  gift  afforded  tome  justificatloo. 


ALL   SAIXTS"    AND    OTHER    CHUHOHKS.  ^\J 

ix  m  Vattr  Wd  th«  Fmt  da;  of  Jm;  i68a  In  tha  Pari«h  Ohim-h  ot  All  SnhtN 
'Conni  bai«  Vicar  M'  Samnel  Short  >nd  M'  Robert  Sljriwi  Mnji  t'liHivhwAitWa 
ttdircn  Parisfaoiwrs  then  and  them  present. 

Ordovd  then  that  the  two  old  Silver  Cuppea  and  two  Sllvpr  plnlnn  Iw  aitM  lif 
ktCbnrcb  Wardens  and  the  moneys  Paid  to  M'  Ciilllnn  lownnloa  |iAyliiii  oil  In* 
\Bnm  if  the  Bishop  will  be  pleased  to  give  his  order  ur  Icinva  fur  ihn  mimm 

On  June  15th,  the  bishop's  consent  was  obtaiurd  in  llir  lullowlttij 
Wds:— 

The  Right  Reverend  Father  in  God  William  Lord  HUhop  ut  l'fltBit)iH'i<i||)i  \mt 
na  free  leave  to  the  Churchwardens  of  the  parish  of  Ail  Nu  Nxillil'iii  ri*  •vll  dixl 
ipose  of  tlte  old  Church  Plate  provided  the  money  Ihtitohy  rayxul  Iw  )iii|«lii)riul  lit 
famt  of  the  Church  or  Parish  debts  which  rebte  to  thn  t.hun  ti  wli  rtx**  luf  Uiiu4 

Tho  Sheppard. 

The  fotlowisg  eotry  and  receipt  are  in  the  vestry  \nniU  miiU-i 
Lte  August  ijth.  1^3: — 

HcBoiaDdw  liaa  ^«  cad  eiipps  and  plates  betrif  tti>e  Pmrttb  (r(«u  wi-a  »v'-4 
W  Bayly  iee  Sem  ?3uCs  aad  Five  Shillin;;*. 

Scceirtd  ±«a  7  IT  WZZas  WaJIia  awl  M'  John  Carr  ''.t'^CM.n'M'l*-'^  ^  t<^ 
Boh  of  AL  ^TTW  -rke  K^x'^aLid  *^=s  ci  5»«irefl  pi>-jivi*  fivK  t^„!i,i^^i  u/  HI- 
■■ncl  Co^s  iBK  I-gara  ^  T3je  s*^  ParUo  U  ;Mit '/  'i^.  Aftt^*'*  «ut  vv  im  Iv 
niag  the  era  ::^er    'S'cseas  sy  sa::ij  ta*  ^ay  ksij  y«w  i[i<f(*3i»>c 

These  nfisrsm  ii."s.tvzzi  -J.  :J>*  v.«r.:r.  ^:,>a  ><a>  ■/  h.\  ^r».<^ 
n  someniic  i:uiitii:rji:r  ~  w^t-r.*  n-v^*,  ;/r-vA-j.»r  'twi-  *,:*  ..,■. 
liver  c^»  miL  tit;  ~v-   i-_-T*rr  T^.<C^t  '/'  '--j^  fc-j-'j.'.  ^•■-^f.t.ttu    ..>,,.. 

The  senrui  r    t.,    '.^iiT.zi    iVT7i^.-::irr:  •je..'^.      \jr  v^t^     ^  >,,^ 

vked  szu'JU!  Li^   r::^".'  ^-^i — li:;;  'j    :i>-  • . .-^ ^.-.r .'. j  «     ,^,..    ^, 

B  be  pni-itt:!  t    :.■.-    ,t-^  i*:::   i:    j'.r.ii     .^  ur^  ■,,„  .       ;   ,- 

In  if:i   a«-  jjifd.:.  -   " -'■rc   ;^    i   i^^'           '---  ^    ^...^ 

^lerk  a  .^j   -ra.-"— :   '"s.    ■-   v--^    -»•-  »rr:..---        =.  ■    ..;    -  ,.„      .^ 
Awards  -tae  TTPoiiEir    t     -■:-    '•^" 

Nutt.  secnn    ^r     li.    ->ii;r:_    .-;.,■:      i-t-  ,,,«.       ..,,. 

garlic  ^KTiiitrr 

^Mh  f:^  i  >i:a:-    .-ji^    »*u--     *-     i..  t-«„    ,    .  ^     , , 


4i8 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


at  his  own    cliarge.     He    was   also    ordered,  in    commoo 
bellman  and  the  waits,  to  wear  on  his  livery  cOal    the  cogaia 
or  badge  of  the  town.     If   any  sexton    refused   to   make  op 
wear  the  coal  and  badge,  then  he  forfeited  the  allowance- 
In   1637  "it  is  agreed    and   ordered    that  whereas  John  Fh 
Sexton  of  All  Saints  is  now  sued  in  Law  for    taking  of  Scberi 
due  (sec  page  369),  being  aunciently  d«c   to  the  towDc  Crya 
Sexton,    for  come   brought    to   the    Markett    Hill,   That  the  ) 
shalbe    defended  at    the    charge   of    tJie    Corporalion    out  rf 
Chamber." 

On  September  13th.  1666,  the  conduct  of  Icremiab  (■"« 
sexton  of  All  Saints,  was  brought  before  the  court  of  the  cm 
and  the  aldermen.  He  was  accused  of  speaking  many  dK 
words  of  the  mayor,  of  many  misdemeanours,  of  a  lewd  life, 
of  keeping  a  disorderly  house.  The  court  being  fully  « 
the  truth  of  these  charges  removed  him  at  once  from  hi( 
The  vestry,  however,  of  All  Sabts.  disputed  the  n, 
mayor's  court  to  dismiss  a  sexton.  Although  clothed, 
considerable  extent  paid  at  the  cost  of  the  corporation.  the«t 
iastkal  courts  upheld  the  claim  of  the  vestry  or  parishioners.  F 
further  period  of  twel>-e  years  the  parish  persisted  in  relainji^ 
services  of  llie  dissolute  Friend,  and  when  at  last  they  disclu 
him,  they  absolutely  chose  one  who  was  at  that  tinw  »  p 
(possibly  only  for  debt)  as  his  successor. 

At  the  vestr>'  held  on  January  28th.  1678,  il  was  ordcnd 

Tlut  Jeremy  Preind  sfaooM  be  md  ia  dUaiixwd  anA  pat  out  trf  hi*  yli 
Sexton  of  ibe  Cburch  ni  All  Sii-U, 

At  ibe  Mine  VcMty  John  SynoRs  cUcivd  Into  Ok  Setto*  pUet  (or  tka 
chnrcli  o*  Alt  Saiou  whereas  it  was  ordered  Uul  if  Joiio  S/xmu  did  •«  p*M 
Lrbcriy  o«t  of  pfbon  witbin  dx  waki  tjrme  thes  tbm  ihonld  U  kortlw 
cild  to  cliooM  imMber  Scxion. 

In    1719^   and    for    many   subsequent    years,    Roben    \Va! 
mentioned  as  sexton  both  in  the  vestry  books,  and   in  the 
of  the  aklermen's  court.     In  1742  be  was  succeeded  in  his 
John  Cox. 

tn  1750  Peter    Quenby,  who   was   one  of    the   lorty- 
displaced  from  that  office  by  reason  of  his  poverty,  wl 
to  accept  the  position   of  sexton  to  All   Swits,    in  the 
William    Spcnce.    recently   deceased.     The  apptontrocnt  of 
Qucnby,   If  not   actually    made   by   the  mayor  and  al 
cettaialy  confirmed  by  them,  and  is  recorded  in  Ibeir  jof 


ALL    SAINTS'    AND    OTHER    CHURCHES. 


In  the  chamberlain's  accounts,  1764,  Richard   Claridgc.  sexton, 

paid  £t  6s.  M.  for  attending  the  mayor  to  churcli.     In  the  same 

accounts  the  following  names  of  sextons  appear  under  their  rcspec- 

ive  vears  for  a  like  sal?.ry :— 1771,  John  Wright;  1776,  John  Cox; 

[734,  Samuel  VVr^lil;  1791,  Charles  Wright;  and  1821,  John  Wright. 

Varia. 

The  followinjj  details,  connected  with  the  church  of  All  Saints, 
arc  of  some  interest,  arc  taken  from  the  town  or  church  records. 
A    remarkable    order    was    made    by    the    assembly    in    1585, 
the  effect  that  every  person,  of  whatsoever  degree,  iJiat  commu- 
nicated at  the  church  of  AH  Saints,  should  p.iy  at  every  time  they 
[received  the  communion  one  farthing,  over  and  besides  their  Easter 
The  churchwardens   were  to   make  a  true  account   of   these 
Lithin^s  to  Mr.  Mayor  twice  a  year,  namely,  the  week  after  Easter, 
and    the    week    after    "  Bartliolomcwtide."      Such  a  coUuction   of 
communicants'    farthings    (altogether   apart   from  voluntary  alms) 
to  be  applied  to  civil  uses  is  surely  unprecedented  I 
At  a  vcsiry  held  on  December  tilth,  1694.  it  was 

Ordeied  ihsi  iheM  be  pxjd  (a  tbe  Oiurcb  Wardens  for  evctyoae  that  shall  be 

bsTjed  in   tbe    Ponico    Fiitcen  »liiI1inK>  lu    luimcrly  ami  (or  ci-cironc  thai   sliall 

ba  hurT^  ifl  thit  pin  of  lh«  Churchyard  ihat   ly«th  on  the   We«    of  th«  Church 

5c«vpW  Plr«  *hllitD]r«  bcilde*  Mhcr  Duo  And  if  tnjr  p-oand  b«  optnvd  b«fwe  ibe 

LCborcb  W»fd«ni  have  tecpived  ih*  M«nev  dii«  ■*  aloi«said  Thnt  the  Church  Wardeos 

kll  he  anfwerable  lot  th*  Kima  And  yt  U  funher  onbirMl    iliai  ^I   ihuse  persons 

tlui  do  fioc  pay  by  reason  ot  ihcir  poverty  to  ibe  Chiirchc  Poorc  shall   he  bvtyed 

^»i  dve  iip«t  put  or  End  of  the  Chnrch  jrard  thai  Ijm  on  the  Eutside  «(  the  Oiui«h. 

A  further  resolution  conceniing  the  cliarge  for  tombstones  in 
dtlTcnrnt  parls  of  the  churchyard,  was  passed  at  a  vestry  held  37th 
March.  i733"— 

Ordered  at  tha  udm  •mtry  Ihat  no  person  thall  EmcI  a  Hnwoelc  or  TombitOM  ta 
tbe  Ant  Church  Vard  witliout  paying  the  saai  of  five  pouadi  into  the   Hand*  of  ib« 
^K  Churrh wilder)  before  (be  lUtue  ihatl  l>c  crrdRdand  ihst  ao  perron  shall  erect  ibe  KiiDe 
^Bin  ihc  Bock  Churchvaril  without  pajring  the  sum  of  Gftjr  xbilUn|;K  as  before  directed. 

H  Chimes  were  jciven  to  tbe  church  at  the  expense  of  the  cor- 
poration in  the  time  of  Elizabeth,  and  again  after  the  great  fire. 
In  1727  the  assembly  complained  of  tbe  irrc^larity  of  the  church 
clock  and  chimes,  with  the  result  that  the  vestry  entered  into  a 
coDtiscl  with  Thomas  Eyers,  of  Kettering,  clockmaker,  to  keep  the 
icli>ck  BJid  chimes  in  good  and  sufiicient  repair,  and  well  going,  for 
[iHcuiy-one  years,  at  an  annual  payment  of  406. 

CC  a 


hcbo 


4» 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROaCH    RECORDS. 


In  1S20  a  subscription  was  made  amounting  to  £800,  vrhh  wlarfc 
was  purcliaseti  two  houses  standing  at  the  north-cast  o(  the  dumb 
of  All  Saints,  of  Edwarti  Parkinson-  They  were  taken  down  to  tW 
great  improvement  of  that  part  of  the  town.  Several  cowiJi 
gentlemen  subscribed  liberally. 

The  corporation  claimed  the  riglit  of  sanctioning  ihc  erectioBfll 
monumcnLs  within  the  church,  and  receiving  the  fees  for  Ihe  nmc. 
The  last  instance  of  this  is  in  1823,  when  the  assembly  pm 
leave  to  the  executors  of  tlie  late  Mr.  Kirby  to  erect  a  motminsM 
in  the  church  ot  All  Saints,  on  payment  of  the  usual  fee».  prorided 
the  mayor  and  justices  approve  of  the  design. 

Onieit  Churches  of  the  Town. 

The  churches  of  Nortliampton  were  remarkably  numerous.  Hk 
churches  of  All  Saints,  St.  Sepulchre,  Sl  Giles,  and  St.  ft»« 
still  exisl.  The  others  were  the  churches  of  St  Mar?,  St 
Katliarinc,  St.  Gregory,  and  St.  Michael,  the  great  diatrfi 
of  St.  Andrew's  priory,  the  four  churches  of  the  four  onien 
of  friars,  and  the  chapels  of  St.  John,  St.  .\tartin,  and  the  ftooi- 
in-thc-Wall,  all  within  the  town  gates.  Outside,  but  within  tLt 
liberties,  there  were  the  churches  of  Sl  Lawrtncc  and  St  Bar- 
tholomew on  the  north,  St.  Edmund  on  Uie  east,  St.  Moigant 
(pertaining  to  the  abbey  of  St.  James)  on  the  west,  and  St 
Leonard  on  the  south ;  as  well  as  south  bridge  chapel  of  St. 
Thomas  of  Canterbury,  and  the  chapel  of  St.  Thomas'  alra&Soe*^ 

The  town  records  contain  a  few  incidental  refereoces  to  toae 
of  them. 

St.  Katharine's  was  a  chapel-of-casc  to  All  Saints,  tt  was 
surrounded  by  a  burial  ground  of  some  size.  Letand,  writio|;  li 
the  time  of  Henry  VHI.  says— "  Ther«  is  a  OiapcIIe  of  S' 
Caterine  sette  in  a  cemctaric  in  the  towne  longging  to  tbe  Cbircbe 
of  Alhalowca." 

It  has  been  generally  assumed  ibat  this  church  or  chapel  was 
pulled  down  at  the  liiue  of  the  Reformation,  but  the  town  reconb 
show  that  the  winduws  OJid  roof  were  rcpaircU  at  the  town  charge 
in  1587- 

We  are  oot  able,  however,  to  prove  that  H  wax  at  this  Uose 
used  for  any  purposes  of   wonihip,  whilst   a    1  -  "a    few 

years  later,  points  clearly  to  its  being  u&ed  t>  imbcA. 


ALU  SAtNTS'    AND    OTHER    CHURCHES. 


4SI 


Id  1602  the  assembly  {^ranted   a   lease   for   forty.one  years  to 
In'ard  Henseman,  nwrcer,  of  the  churchyard  of 

S*  Kithcrlna  Cliiuirh  or  Cluppell  And    tlic  giotindc  at>d   sotic  n-herrupon    (be 
dc  chttrebc  or  chipfall  uid  tha  walli  IkeMof  aund*,  and  the  groundes  najre*  and 
<  thcnto  Moneine  froni  th*  ][o<ttBg  out  of  the  Collef>e  Une  tkroughoul  the 
Hiirch  jK^r  to  (bv  Uncx  endc  tcading  to  the  lioncmuiket  ■!  a  raat«]  o(  fort; 
iullitigm  u'hh  a  cov^ttant  for  tHe  mnking  npilnn;  and  moinuvning  of  two  ttosat 
Dovades  for  the  Indoung  and  ic|MrAting  of  ifie  »mc.  ihoiic  M  ihc  wcsie  ende  of  the 
e.  nexi  the  College  bne  vtterc  a  pure  of  gUt*  lately  vrcrc  thothei  crvR  «r«t1  or 
(■aound  at  the  •rest  ende  ol  the  Ltce. 

The  lease  also  reserved  to  the  mayor  and  bui^esses  all  the 
Btonc  and  timber  of  the  building,  with  free  access  for  rcmov-ing  it, 
id  also  free  liberty  for  the  burial  in  the  churchyard  "  of  atl  suche 
dead  as  yt  shall  please  god  at  anje  tyme  to  visitc  with  the  plague 
pr  any  extraord inane  or  iDfcctious  death" 

It  was  ordered,  in  1610,  that  St.  Katharine's  churchyard  should 

'be  walled  up  at  the  Horsrmarket  end,  and    a   gate   made  for  the 

,cnd    abutting   upon    College    lane,  and    that   the  two  lanes   called 

\nc  lane  and   BaltV   lane  sliould  be  taken  in  and  walled  up  at 

>th  ends. 

In  1612  Edward  Mercer  obtained    leave    to  erect  a  smalt  house 

tJie  churchyard,  and  was  granted  a  lease  thereof  for   41    years, 

It  a  shilling  rental. 

It    was   agreed  on  August  23rd,    1631,    "that    suche    and    soe 
inch  of  the  walls  of  S.  Katheriue's  Chappell    shalbe   taken   down 
the  stone  thereof  arising    shalbe  employed  to  the  repalre  of 
Town  Halt,  as  the  chamberlains  of  this  towne  shall  thinke  fttl 
lod  appoint." 

The  riuarry,  however,  of  St.  Katharine's  was  not  yet  exhausted, 
tor  at  the  outbreak  of  the  commonwealth  diiturbances,  the  remains 
this  fabric  were  utilised  in  repairing  the  town  walls  and  other 
fortifications. 

The  church  of  St.  Mary,  which  stood  in  St.  Marj-'s  street,  was 
tlso  united  to  All  Saints  in  1549.  Towards  the  end  of  the  reign 
Hltzabcth,  the  town  were  desirous  that  the  small  income  of  this 
M  vicarage  should  be  appropriated  as  a  stipend  for  the  usher  or 
cond  master  of  the  free  school. 
At  the  asaembly  held  in  July,  1684,  it  was  agreed  that 

Thwt  «lulb»  «  teller  dirvctrd  to  Ibe  L.  Bytahoppe  of  Petetborawe  for  tlte  pro- 

llnpr  and  jtetieiDxe  of  the  vicaridcc  d  S'  nuiiea  Toward*  ibe  may  nicy  iielnfc  aiid 

ling  of  one  iisiher  for  tK«    Tpaclirinj;©  of  Ckjldr«rt  el  the   freetkoole  tinder  M' 


43d 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


SaunitevnoD.  but  yff  the  »rae  vlcarnlgc  canoot  b«  olMcracd  M  xhe  Bjwlrapea  itaola, 
then  jt  jr>  Agtccd  tlitit  M*  SauodeicoA  «!ui[l  ptuvyilc  4  suAc)<Mt  what  ita4  kt  tv 
haiv  Twiniie  SbiUinge*  a  yere  |Niid  bja  (iwt«  ol  itie  cb3inb*r  of  the  Towav  Tomli 
hi*  mnyntenaBBcc 

This  church  in  early  clays  n-as  sometimes  called  St  M»7*i  6jr 
the  Castle,  and  was  used  officially  for  various  purposes  wbat  the 
court  was  at  Northampton.  Id  1318,  Uic  chancellor  (John  it 
Sendale,  Bisliop  of  Winchester)  was  with  the  king  ac  Nonhi»p> 
ton.  On  July  20th,  he  left  Morthampton  as  royal  envny  !o  the 
Earl  of  I..ancaster.  and  delivered  the  great  seal  to  William,  the 
senior  chancery  clerk.  The  seal  was  then,  according  to  custoo, 
sealed  up  in  a  bag  by  William  and  his  two  fellow  clerks.  ibA 
deposited  for  safe  keeping  in  the  church  of  St.  Mary.  Bat  tk 
saine  day  the  king  required  the  great  seal  for  witnessiag  ccnaii 
documents,  so  the  three  clerks  proceeded  to  the  church  and  tVre 
opened  the  bag  and  used  it. 

The  church  of  St.  Greciory  which  used  to  stand  to  (he  tix 
of  St.  Peter's,  in  the  narrow  street  which  still  bears  the  name  d 
St.  Gregory,  was  one  of  those  small  parish  churches  which  ccod 
to  have  any  separate  existence  after  the  RclormatioD.  BrijfO 
gives  a  list  of  incumbents,  the  date  of  the  last  appointtncnl  itt'ict 
1533.  The  parish  was  annexed  to  All  Saints.  Cardinal  Pole,  b 
the  short  reign  of  Queen  Mary,  bestowed  the  fabric  of  the  diurdi 
on  the  corporation  for  use  as  a  school  house.  Up  to  that  date  ik 
churrh  had  remained  unmolested. 

In  the  first  volume  of  the  orders  of  assembly,  under  the  dale 
of  June  6th.  1556.  there  arc  several  entries  relative  tothe"weigkl 
of  the  Icadcs  belles  and  somes  of    money   come   to   the   handea  of 
Anthony    Bryan   of   and   concernings  the  churchc  of  S*  Crrtiune" 
One  Randall  Smythe  was  the  purchaser  of   the  lead,  and  on  Juk 
26th  handed  over  j^^io  to  the  town  in  part  payment  for  two  (oddcn 
of  lead.     Entries  are  then  begun  to  be  made  of  the  weight  of  laJ 
that  Smythe,  who  was  a  carter  by  trade,  removed  from  the  chartl 
day  hy  day.     Up  to  July  Qth,  he  had  taken  41  c»1s..  2  qr^.    Hete 
unfortunately,    the    entries   came   to   an    end,   eight  page*  of  the 
book  having  been  torn  out.    Othermse   wc  sliouk]  probably  havB 
ktvown    several    more    interest    particulnrs    as   to   the    fate   of  St. 
Gregory's  when  it  was  being  demolished  and  turocd.  into  a  scboot 
bouse.     On  pulling  dotvn  the  old  buildings  in  ift40,  variooa  portioos 
of  the  church  came  to  l^ht,  including  a  Norman  arcade  in  good 
preservation. 


•tr^  • 


'  » 


section  eleven. 
The    Defences    of    Northampton 

AND     THB 

Commonwealth    Struggle. 


Grants  op  uukacb — Walls  rb-built  1301 — Bailiffs  responsible  for  their 
REPAIR — The  town   gates  and   bridcks — Prequbnt  bridge  assessments— The 

ORKAT  CIVIL  STRIPE — ShIP  MONEY  DENIED  BY  NORTHAMPTON — REFUSAL  OF  TRAINED 

bands  to  leave  the  liberties — northampton  garrisoned  for  the  parliament 
—  Work   at   the    Fortifications — Scout    horseuen — Trees   felled  —  The 

GARKISON  and  THB  COVENANT — RAISING  OF  VOLUNTBSRS — DEMOLITION  OF  THE 
WALLS  AND  CASTLE — SOLDIBRS  AND  TRAINED  BANDS — TrOOPS  FOR  THE  ELIZABETHAN 

WARS  IN  Ireland  —  Billeting  soldiers  1637-9 — Muster  roll  of  1667  — 
Volunteers  of  1794— Arks  and  Armour,  temp.  Elizabeth  and  Jakes — Town 
arks  and  munition  in  1643 — Arms  surrendered  in  1663 — Watch  and  ward- 
Elizabethan  regulations — The  Orders  of  1645. 


438 


lORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH     RECORDS. 


VUVJ 

in 

rs  palfl 
,  ifid  < 


but  the  far  bi^er  grant  of  1301  would  probably  suffict;,  or 
considerable  contribution  towards  Ae  vrry  serious  uodertak 
the  ncTv-  walling  of  an  enlarged  and  trxtendcd  town. 

The  descriptions,  drawings,  and  remains  of   the  oU  waUi 
that  they  were  mainly  of  Kdwardian  date.      The   laat  quarter  c 
13th  century,  and  the  first  quarter  of  the    141^.    were   bu»y 
throughout    England,  not  only   in    re-constnicting   castles, 
town  walls  on  newer  and  improved  principles. 

The  i\'alls  are  said  to  have  been  of  considerable  wid' 
they  admitted  of  six  persons  walking  abreast. 

In  1378  the  mayor  and  bailiffs  were  warned  by  letters  fata 
repair    the   defects   in    the    town    walls,  turrets,   dykes,  ind 
defences  with  all  speed.    All  the  town   was  to  contriba 
work,  ^ve  the  privileged,  the  feeble,  and  the  mendicuiE 

.\nother  royal  murage  grant  of  tolls  for  two  years  was 
1400. 

The  orders  of  the  privy  council  for  February,  i54(h5A 
sanction  for  five  loads  of  stone  to  be  taken  out  of  "the  Stetf 
S*  Edmunds*  in  Northampton"  for  the  repairing  of  the  town 
and  of  the  west  bridge.  It  was  further  ordered  (hit  i 
quantity  of  stone  did  not  suffice,  that  as  much  as  was  req 
should  be  taken  from  "the  Graunge  of  S'  Andrews." 

The   maintenance    of   the  town  walls,  gatc^,  and   bndgef 
naturally  a  source  of  continued  expenditure  to  the  town  of  N 
arapton.     The  references  to  tlicir  repairs   in   the   sur^inDC 
records  are  frequent. 

In  1594  the  walls  seem  to   have  been    in   an   exccptionallj 
plight.    The  assembly  agreed:— 

That  them  thilbe  ■  tceaMincM  nadt  ol  Ttiwtie  ponndes  tomnb  ikt  nf 
tlie  tawne  Walln  which  atc  nowe  in  fnuil  deeaye  and  a  gnu  pan  talles 
readie  to  Call  more  and  motv;    And    iboM  pmtma   wbOM  (biraa  Aa»  fctUo 
appafmed  Sc*ssnrs  to  ECeue  avene  ra;in  indtftrnmne  aooonSng  to  hn  iHt 
trilt,  TbomiU  Cnuwdl,  Tboaias   Cowpcr,   joka   Deabrook.   Jobs   UayaaH, 
Cole*,  William  Cockyn,  Rickanl  Watu,  aad  tlwrnu   WaniBr;  to   b« 
Uie  conubles  in  their  Mverall  wardea. 

The  5rst  business   of  the  assembly  that  met  at  the  Gut 
on  September  14th,  1594,  was  the  condition  of  the  wmlU:— 

Impnmit  yt  ft  agnti  and  ofdajwad  that  ibc  baUiffn  alennl  to  npplirl 
of  balUwiekff  el  thU  luwne  lot  Ibc  yeaic  not  e»9e«ia|[  tha  taut  td  St.  Ukht 
■ball  at  theif  own  prapar  eoates  and  Aarga  In  all  food  and  aitilk»*U  ntm 
and  build  or  nutc  lo  ba  creeled  and  baltded  Ott«  pcsrcbc  of  lA* 


430 


NORTHAUPTOjr   KWOUCB   SCCOXDS. 


gate.  Six  flhilliogs  and  eigfatpcace  ira>  tokcc  2i  ux 
to  Baldwyn  Bernard,  Esqiiira,  towanb  iri^^t  sp 
the  town  walls  at  Pyrfooc,  for  miick  he  tras  respoasMe. 

'  It  was  this  comparattrc  scajtirr  aod  gtxat  castlineas  d  if 
owing  to  the  distaoce  of  mailable  qaajrw^  and  the  ataeac 
effective  water  carnage,  liiat  caased  oU  SocthainptoD  to  t» 
so  largely  of  timber.  Stone  was  Uxad  Dear  the  >ariKrc  in  fti 
mediate  neighbourhood  of  ihe  town,  bat  of  a  poor  aod  peril 
quality.  In  1602  a  stone  pit  was  &vg  oo  tfae  lown  lands  joat  oa 
the  east  gate.  It  was  leased  to  Rscfaard  Adkyss  and  Edinrd  G 
by  the  mayor,  who  were  allowed  to  sell  the  zo^b  stone  to  the  inli 
ant5  at  sixpence  a  load,  opon  coadittoo  of  their  rcfniriai;  "  xht 
part  of  tlie  south  bridge  from  ooeeod  to  tbe  otlier"wtthiaayui 
continuing  to  keep  the  ^ainc  in  good  repair.  To  avoid  danger 
were  8i»o  required  to  make  a  sufficient  fence  and  mound  roui 
pit  or  quarr)-.  But  this  stone  qaarry  of  Messrs.  Adkins  ft  C 
was  clearly  not  a  success,  for  though  tbej  tfaocooghly  repain 
south  bridge  and  south  gate  in  i6az,  early  in  JaoKs'  rcq^ 
bridge  and  g^tc  required  very  considerable  renewal  a  < 
Hence  the  bailiffs  wisely  refrained  from  resorting^  to  the  east 
stone  pit  for  the  repair  of  the  town  walls. 

la  their  anxiety  to  leave  no  means  antried  for  the  rep 
the  town  walls,  the  town  authorities  went  dangerotuify  M 
compounding  a  felony  ia  1610.  Id  January,  of  that  year 
assembly  decided  that,  as  one  William  VVbeeler  dyer,  had  lubi 
himself,  and  acknowledged  diverse  injuries  that  be  had  dMH 
had  promised  to  pay  the  costs  incurred  in  prosecuting  htn,  n 
son  and  daughter,  and  also  to  rebuild  a  perch  of  the  town 
be  should  be  fully  restored  into  the  company. 

In  161 1  an  order  was  made  that  bcoccfortb  tbe  el 
should  pay  yearly  out  of  the  common  fund  ^5  lor  the 
amendment  of  the  decayed  places  of  tbe  town  walls,  wh 
may  think  it  most  fit  and  convenient  to  be  amerMjed-     Al 
lime  tbe  present  and  past  baililTf  who  had  not  obc)'cd  tl: 
as  to  the  annual  perches  were  to  be  fined  jf?  6s.  Sd    a) 
paid  to  the  chamberlain,  who  wu  to  cause  the  arreara  il 
building  to  be  at  once  undertaken. 

In  addition  to  the  walU,  the  medieval  towa  of 
was  also  defended,  particularly  on  the  west,  hjr*  w:rie*( 
or  earthworks,   which    were  probably   the   mnaiiu  of 


NORTHAMPTON    AND    THE    COMMONWEALTH    STRUGGLE.     43I 


jue&l  raiiiparls  adapted  to  the  daj'S  of  grrater  defensive  skill. 
iwa  to  the  time  of  the  Commonwealth,  it  was  usual  in  corporation 
:b  of  lands  and  lenemeitts  that  bordered  or  comprised  parts  of 
earthworks,  to  have  a  clause  specially  providing  for  the 
iit  and  mainienancc  of  the  "mounds.  Some  of  the  raounda 
tre  at  right  angles  to  the  nails,  and  were  termed  "cross  mounds." 
There  were  various  dykes  and  ditches  io  connection  with  the 
lutces  and  mill  runs  on  the  south  side  of  the  town,  but  there  was 
a  considerable  ditch  or  fosse  all  round  beneath  the  walls. 
Imonj;  the  earlier  recorded  orders  of  the  assembly  is  one  directing 
annual  scouring  and  cleansing  of  these  ditchns  by  the  chamber- 
He  had  the  power  of  calling  upon  every  householder  to  help 
the  work,  cither  personally,  or  through  a  deputy  or  servant,  and 
deffnult  of  labour  he  could  summarily  levy  fourpence.  In  i6l2  it 
ordered  "that  the  inhabitants  of  the  towne  shall  allowe  and 
paie  xiij'  iiij*  yearlie  to  the  Chaml)€rlains  of  the  towne  of  North- 
tpton  for  and  towards  the  scouring  of  the  arches  and  ditches 
EJonging  to  the  towne  of  Northampton." 
'ITiis  term  "arches"  leads  us  to  the  brief  consideration  of  the 
-a  and  bridge*  of  the  town.  The  town  was  laid  out  about  1300, 
on  a  fairly  geometrical  plan  (see  plan  at  the  end  of  this  volume), 
rith  the  checker  or  market  place  111  the  centre,  and  with 
tlying  wards  corresponding  to.  and  named  after  the  four 
Its  of  the  compass.  Entrance  would  be  obtained  through 
walls  to  each  of  these  wards  respectively,  by  the  twrth, 
lutfa.  cast,  and  west  gates.  There  was  also,  in  addition  to 
or  three  small  postern  gates,  another  gate  of  some  importance 
icd  the  Dcmn^atc.  which  was  the  gate  leading  down  to  the 
■ills  and  sluices  ot  ibc  river  Ncnc  Ther«  seems  00  reasonable 
ibt  that  the  name  is  derived  from  the  Celtic  i/wr  or  water,  which 
re  find  in  Dcrwent,  Darent,  and  other  old  river  names,  and 
irobably  is  an  interesting  reminiscence  of  the  rude  earthworks  with 
opening  to  the  river  that  occupied  this  site  in  prc-historic  days. 
In  the  highly  interesting  and  long  account  of  the  town  of  Norlb- 
ipton  contained  in  ihe  hundred  rolls  of  Edward  I.  (1275)  mention 
also  made  of  a  sixth  gate,  which  was  very  near  to  the  south 
This  opening  in  the  walls,  which  was  doubtless  a  smalt  ooe, 
was  termed  tlie  Cow  gale,  and  served  for  the  exit  and  entry  of 
cattle  to  the  adjacent  pa.sturcs  or  cow  meadow. 
The  four  fortified  gate-houses  all  had  rooms  over  tlie  archway, 


43a 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


but  the  one  lo  the  east,   according  to   Bridges,   was  the 
loftiest,  and  the  most  embellished. 

The  south  gate,  however,  which  was  the  entrance  from 
was  the  one  of  the  most    importance.     U  was   separated  rnmij 
bridge  by  a  considerable  intcrt'al,  which  was  crcntualljr  built  i 
termed  tbe  outer  south  quarter,  or  more  usually  the  south  qn 
or  even  by  the  still   shorter  name  of  the  quarter.    Qose  to) 
south  gate,  just  outside  the  wall,  was   the  hospital  of  St. 
of  Canterbury,  but  a  far  older  fuundaUon  than  this  was  ih« ' 
chapel,  also  dedicated  to  the  same  St.  Thomas,  which  stood  pnl; 
on  the  bridge  piers  on  the    further   or   Cotton    side  of   the  water. 

From  this  circumstance  the  south  bridge  now  and  again  iKal)jj 
the  name  of  St.  Thomas'  bridf;e.  There  was  a  second  strong  gtb^ 
way  on  the  south  side  on  the  bridge  itself,  and  in  front  d  tUt 
archway  there  was  no  regular  causeii'ay,  but  a  drawbridgej 
down  between  the  piers.  On  the  piers  at  the  ton-n  end  of 
bridge  there  was  a  small  hermitage  and  other  tenements. 

From  the  west,  Norlhampion  was  also  approathed  by  a  br 
which  spanned  the  narrower  of  the  two  heads  into  which  thr  M 
divides  itself  close  to  the  town.     Here,  too,  was  a  drawfarit^eonr 
one  of  the  arches,  and  another  hermitage  at  the  bridge  approadL 

in  l6oS  an  assessment  of  /^o  was  voted    bj'   the   assrmhly  foi 
the  repair  of  "the  west  bridge  and  other  bridges  within  the  i 
of  Northampton"  which  were  very  ruinous.     In  1615  a  further  I 
of  £so  Wis  raised  by  assessment  for  the  repair  of  tbe  "  wrst 
and  other  bridges.*'     The  south  bridge  was  repaired    ta   i6ji 
cost  of  £20,    It  was  reported  to  the  assembly  that  met  oa  Ju\ 
162a,  that  "  an  arch  of  the  west  bridge  next   to  the   Armita;; 
the   great   violence   and    force   of  the   late   waters   and   flc 
ruinated,  so  that  there  ys  ooe  passage   for   people   nor   for 
and  carriages  over  the  same,"  with  the  result   that  a  levy  oj 
was  ordered  to   be   instantly  collected.     In   l62j  the  west 
was  again  reported  as  out  of  repair,  as  well  as  the  bridges 
to  Mr.  Chadwick's  and  Fisber'*  houses  respectively  and  a 
levy  of  jCi3  6s.  8d.  was  ordered. 

The   "other  bridges"   not  infrequently   named  in  the 
Qsually  referred  lo  the  dr)-  bridges  or  arches  onrer  the  town 
or  fosse,  which  were  a  nece.<isity  at  Ute  cast  and  north  gates.  as| 
as  the  Dernegate.  or  whcrrvrr  the  wall  wa.s  pierced  for  iralBc 
hare  found  two  or  three  allusions  in  the  orders  of    Eliiabcih* 


436 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


^^148  a  week  for  the  relief  of  the  sick  from  the  plague  in  North- 
ampton, being;  so  heavy  a  char^.  He  had  proceeded  as  rouodJjr 
as  he  could  with  the  numerous  defaulters,  havinf;  distrained  the 
goods  of  about  200  men,  and  imprisoned  some  ;  but  the  prisaa 
being  ia  Northampton,  where  scarce  any  man  dare  venture  for 
fear  of  infection,  lias  been  a  great  hindrance  to  the  service. 

The  next  question  in  which  the  independent  borough  of  North- 
ampton found  itself  nt  issue  with  the  crown,  was  the  endeavour 
made  by  tlie  deputy  Heutenanbi  of  the  shire,  to  insist  upon  the 
town  paying  an  assessment  towards  the  general  military  forces, 
and  sanctioning  the  removal  of  their  bands  and  arms  outside  the 
liberties  of  the  town. 

These  requests  involved  a  complete  break  with  the  immctDorial 
customs  of  Northampton,  if  not  with  their  definite  charter  rights. 

In  1639,  letters  were  addressed  to  the  town  authorities  by  the 
deputy  lieutenants,  to  raise  £14.  6s.  Sd.,  for  the  conducting  in4 
furnishing  of  soldiers  into  the  northern  parts  for  his  msjesty'ft 
service.  Therr^upon  a  motion  was  made  in  the  assembly  for  cess 
to  cover  this  amount  and  other  money's  laid  out  in  apparelling 
soldiers,  but  the  assembly  by  a  large  majority  rejected  Ihe  motioo. 
The  mayor,  Richard  Fowler,  however,  caused  a  cess  of  £y3  to  be 
made  by  the  constables  on  this  behalf,  apparently  on  his  sole 
authority.  Some  p.Tid  this  cess,  but  the  greater  part  refused  be- 
cause It  had  not  been  ordered  by  the  assembly.  On  July  stst,  the 
assembly  look  the  matter  again  into  consideration,  when,  "for 
divers  goods  cau-ies  and  being  much  importuned,"  they  voted 
£14.  i6s.  8d.,  out  of  the  chamber  stock. 

Letters  were  received  from  the  deputy  lieutenants  in  April, 
1640.  requiring  £^1  for  conduct  money,  and  coats  for  the  soldicn. 
The  assembly  was  summoned  on  April  27th,  and  again  refused  10 
comply  "for  diverse  good  causes,  and  that  M'  Maior  sliall  retotne 
no  other  answere  but  that  the  corporation  will  not  ycild  cither  to 
the  payement  or  cessment  ol  it,  williout  telling  the  names  of  tDf 
particular  person  of  this  Assemblie  whoc  are  against  it,  and  that 
M'  Maior  shalbe  kept  Indemnified  by  the  Corporation  for  aaie 
trouble  or  danger  that  shall  come  unto  him  by  Retomcin«  d 
that  answcrc." 

At  the  same  awembiy  it  was  reported  that  the  deputy  h'etit(»* 
ants  required  the  trained  men  and  town  arms  to  be  sent  to  IVeW* 
It  was  answered  that  they  shall  go  and  be  sent  at  this  preswit 


riii^i 


438 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


saroe."  At  the  same  time,  in  token  that  U  was  tl»«  system 
the  head  of  it  that  was  hat«d,  a  Ub«ral  graot  wa£  made  lo  the ! 
of  tonnage  and  poundage,  and  all  olber  custom  dutici.  Xo  den 
it  was  this  straightforward  action  of  the  national  purliamcnt  itl 
encouraged  the  local  asserabljr  of  Northampton  in  its  bold  resiiUK 
to  other  royal  demands  at  exactly  the  >^me  period. 


The  FoRTiFYiwc  OP  Northampton. 

At  last  the  continued  and  unhappy  divisions  brtween  the  kiq 
and  parliament  came  to  an  issue,  and  on  August  .jsnd.  r&|3,  ibl 
royal  standard  ii\'as  rai;ied  at  Nottingham,  Northamptoo  al  ooci 
became  a  garrison  for  the  parliament,  under  the  command  ol  Lxi 
Brooke.  A  pamphlet  published  on  September  glli,  of  thai  jva 
describes  Northampton  as  havinf;  a  stron£  garrison  in  it,  and  vMi 
walls  and  fortifications  strongly  repaired,  Ad  assault  had  bee 
made  upon  the  town  by  the  royalists,  but  ihcy  had  been  rqwlso 
chielly  by  two  pieces  of  ordnance,  which  played  on  them  for  tm 
hours,  when  tht-y  retired  with  the  loss  of  twenty  men. 

On  September  9th,  the  Earl  of  Essex,  the  coromandcr-in-dB 
of  the  parliamentary  forces,  arrived  al  Northamptoo,  where  15c 
men  were  assembled,  and  thence  marched  into  WorceMcr*-^''- 

Altliough  the  walls  and  fortiBcations  had  been  sutfti 
paired  to  resist  the  skirmishing  attack  of  the  royalists  al  tbc  e 
of  August,  they  were  still  in  a  very  dclapidated  condition. 

When  the  assembly  met  on  November  15th,  164J,  the  (tr 
business  for  consideration  was  the  pressing  need  of  impixmni^  il 
fortifications  and  outworks  of  the  town  for  the  preservaiion  at  ti 
inhabitants  and  their  property  then  much  threatened  through  ll 
dangers  of  civil  war.  Eventually  the  assembly  voted  jfloo  towan 
the  scheme,  and  appointed  assessors  in  each  ward  to  levy  the  o: 
on  those  of  ability.  In  May,  16^5.  a  further  order  was  mai 
directing  every  householder  to  send  every  day  one  out  of  his  Imw 
at  one  o'clock  in  the  afternoon  to  labour  on  the  forttfira' 
to  continue  in  that  work  till  six  o'clock  in  the  evening,  uinir^ 
of  &d.  a  day  (or  evcrj-  breach  of  this  order,  and  bo  on  from 
day  till  the  works  arc  finished.  It  was  aJso  ordered  that  G\■e^l 
bcrs  of  the  assembly  oversee  the  afternoon's  work  dailjr  dorii 
appointed  hours. 

On  June  loth.  1643,  a  more  elaborate  order  wa*  made  li 
more  speedy  setting  forth  of  the  woi^  of  defence.     It  was 


iOBTHAUfTON  AND  THE  COMMONWFAUTH   STKUGGtR.       439 

^vidc<l  tbat  every  householder  of  the  chequer  ward  was  to  come 
:If  (or  provide  an  able  substilote)  with  sufficient  tools,  to  work 
Uic  works  upon  every  Thursday ;  every  bouacholdcr  of  the 
ward  every  Friday ;  every  bouscbolder  in  the  east  wurA 
Monday;  ever>-  householder  in  the  nortb  ward  every 
lesdiy  i  and  every  householder  in  the  weal  ward  every  W'etlncs. 
The  hoiidchoklcrs  of  each  ward,  on  their  respective  days, 
to  assemble  at  the  market  cross  at  seven  o'clock  in  the 
ling,  at  the  tolling  of  the  great  bell  of  All  Saints,  aiid  tocoo- 
Unne  at  work  till  eleven  o'clock.  Tlicy  were  to  a^emble  again  id 
ue  oftertHMKi  at  the  toUiog  of  the  bell,  and  to  continue  at  their 
Iftoiir  50  long  39  ihe  overseers  of  the  work  should  think  good. 
P  In  the  following  August  the  works  were  still  in  progress,  and 
assembly  ordered  ihai  every  mayor  and  alderman  should  pay 
a  week,  every  bailiff  or  past  baililT  6d.,  and  every  one  of  the 
^'-eight  4d.  towards  finding  labour. 
Oo  October  4th  of  the  same  year,  another  sum  of   ;£i6o  was 

on  the  town  for  the  completion  of  the  defensive  works. 
In  the  third  volume  of  Northamptonshire  Notes  ami  Queries, 
[an  imerirsting  account  of  the  fortiBcations  of  Northampton  taken 
a  rare  book,  written  by  David  Papillon,  and  printed  in  1645. 
ic  book,  which  is  a  small  quarto  of  124  pages,  is  entitled — A 
^i^aeticail  Abstract  of  the  Arts  of  Fortification  and  Assailing, 
Bd  is  dedicated  "to  Mis  Excclicncic  Sir  Thomas  Fairfax,  Girneral- 
lisime  of  the  Forces  of  the  boaourable  Houses  of  Parlement."  In 
the  fourth  cha{Her,  the  writer  argue*  against  the  custom  of  burning 
or  pulling  down  men's  habitations  in  suburbs  or  hamlets  adjoining 
Iowa*,  not  only  for  humanity's  sake,  but  because  such  suburbs 
properly  fortlBed  arc  powerful  outworks,  and  of  great  advantage  to 
the  town.  He  bewails  over  what  had  been  done  in  this  respect 
with  regard  to  Leicester,  and  then  proceeds  to  mention  thai  it  is 
understood  ''that  Cotton  End,  a  small  Hamlec,  adjoyning  to  the 
South  bridge  of  NorthamiMon.  is  to  be  pulled  downe.  if  tbey  be 
threatened  of  a  Siege,  to  make  the  circumference  of  their  works 
the  lesK.  and  to  secure  tbcir  Briilge.  But  1  will  maintain  that  if 
Matare  ilscUe  and  the  .\rt  of  Man  had  plotted  together  to  place  a 
commodloos  seat  to  serve  as  a  Bulwark,  not  only  to  the  South 
bridj^,  but  to  the  whole  Towne,  they  could  not  have  found  oat  a 
belter  than  port  of  Cotton  End  is."  On  plate  XXIII.,  David 
lillon  drew  a  plan  of  "  Northampton  Rightly  Fortified,''  wherein 


w 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


Cotton  end  is  shown  as  includeil  within  llie  walls,  and  strengthened 
by  a  quadrangular  fort,  with  four  bastions.  A  large  square  fort  is 
shown  a  tittle  cast  of  Drmgatc,  another  to  correspond  on  the  other 
side,  just  M>uth  of  the  west  gate.  This  all  works  out  witli 
geometrical  completeness  on  paper,  but  it  would  havr  involved  an 
entire  reconstruction  o(  the  walls  and  existing  defences,  so  ihit, 
if  otherwise  desirable,  the  time  and  great  expense  required  for  its 
accomplishment  rendered  Papillon's  plan  an  impossibility. 

On  June  26th.  1643,  in  order  to  preserve  the  town  and  inhabi- 
tants from  sudden  dangers  and  surprises,  it  was  agreed  to  iniinc- 
diately  provide  "skout  horses  with  their  furniture  and  able  men 
to  rydc  out  upon  them  as  skouts  from  lyme  to  tyme."  For  this 
purpose  a  ce««  of  j{|iou  was  imposed  upon  the  inhabitants. 

At  an  assembly  held  on  August  ist,  1643,  the  trees  standing  on 
Little  Holme,  close  to  the  West  bridge,  were  ordered  to  be  cut 
down  and  sold.  This  was  obviously  done  to  prevent  them  suf^lyins 
a  shelter  for  the  enemy. 

At  the  same  time  it  was  ordered  that  the  fee  farm  rent  and 
other  money  be  spent  in  purchasing  a  store  of  corn  and  coals  for 
the  town's  use  "in  case  of  a  siege  is  laide  to  the  towne  whith  is 
dailie  feared." 

The  Garrison  and  the  Covenant. 


On  March  21st,  1643*4.  the  committee  of  parliament  for  the 
town  and  county  of  Northampton  sat  with  the  mayor,  aldermen, 
bailiffs,  and  forty-eight,  at  the  guildhall,  when  it  was  agreed  that 
the  weekly  Lax  of  j£i8  should  be  part  of  it  taxed  by  the  pouod 
rent,  according  to  the  ordinance  of  parliament,  amd  the  rest  upoa 
men's  personal  estates,  the  tax  to  be  by  wards, 

The  order  made  a  year  later,  viz.,  on  April  8th,  1645,  show's 
this  heavy  weekly  tax  of  ;^i8  a  week  ordered  by  parliament. 
for  the  maintenance  of  the  soldiers  of  the  garrison  of  Nonhamptm. 

The  head  quarters  of  the  garrison  was  at  the  castle,  but  1 
large  number  of  the  troops  were  billeted  on  the  townsmen.  Tlic 
governor  of  Uie  garrison  was  Colonel  Whitham :  he  frequently  senl 
aid  from  the  garrison  of  Northampton  to  the  various  attacks  upon 
Banbury,  and  other  places  in  the  district. 

On  March  i8lh,  1643-4,  the  assembly  resolved  that:— 

Where**  the  billeted  (ciulillcn  trhjch  an  now*  in  p*j»  and  of  ihs  gahion  ti  lUi 
lowM  far  the  dcfeace  and  salctie  thcnof  under  tlie  Coounnd  of  Colonel  WitJH^  "v 


NORTHAMPTON  AND  THE  COMMONWEALTH  STRUGGLE.      441 

all  of  tbem  this  next  day  to  goe  of  their  places  of  guarde  as  well  to  take  the  covenant 
appointed  by  Ordinance  of  Parliament  to  be  taken,  as  to  be  exercised,  it  is  agreed 
and  ordered  that  the  Se^eant  in  everie  ward  in  this  libertie  shall  fourtbwith  somon  and 
warne  all  householders  in  ther  severall  wards  in  this  towne  to  appear  with  their  Armes 
and  furniture  compleat  in  their  owne  persones  this  next  daj  in  the  mourning  by  seaven 
of  the  clock  at  the  markit  crosse  there  to  be  directed  and  appointed  to  guard  all  ports 
and  places  in  the  said  towoe,  in  the  Rometh  of  the  said  soldiers  for  one  wholl  day 
nntill  they  shalbe  relieved  by  the  said  soldiers  at  night  And  that  yf  anie  housholder 
being  warned  or  warning  left  at  his  howse  by  anie  Sergeant  shall  Refuse  or  be  negligent 
therein  That  then  such  person  soe  Refusing  or  neglecting  shalbe  bound  by  M'  Maior 
to  the  nest  sessions  of  the  peace  of  this  towne  there  to  appeare  to  answear  his  con- 
tempt in  this  behalfe,  or  els  it  shalbe  lawfull  for  M'  Maior  to  sett  forth  punishment 
Upon  him  as  to  bis  discretion  shall  seeme  best. 

On  July  12th,  1644,  a  demand  was  made  on  the  town  to  furnish 
thirty-six  horses  with  bridles  and  saddles,  to  be  delivered  to  Sir 
William  Waller  Knight  "  to  be  imployed  in  service  the  warrs  for 
the  King  and  Parliament."  The  assembly  at  once  consented,  and 
ordered  their  officials  to  levy  a  cess  of  ;^ioo  on  inhabitants  of 
ability,  to  defray  the  expense.  The  defaulters  were  to  be  proceeded 
against  by  distress,  and  if  any  of  the  town  officers  in  the  discharge 
of  their  duty  should  be  sued  or  molested  by  any  one,  they  should 
be  held  harmless  at  the  cost  of  the  chamber. 

The  Domestic  State  Papers  state  that  in  July,  1645,  ^£20,000 
was  despatched  by  the  Goldsmith's  Hall  committee,  by  order  of  the 
committee  of  the  two  kingdoms,  to  Northampton  in  twenty  chests, 
for  the  payment  of  the  Scottish  army.  A  receipt  for  the  due 
arrival  of  this  immense  sum  was  given  at  Northampton  by  John 
Rikman,  on  July  9th. 

At  the  assembly  held  on  June  27th,  1648,  the  following  order 
and  preamble  commenced  the  proceedings : — 

"  Imprimis  whereas  the  tymes  in  this  kingdom  are  now  verie 
dangerous  and  there  are  muche  risings  of  the  malignant  partie  to 
the  disturbance  of  the  peace  thereof  that  a  new  warre  is  feared 
Nowe  at  this  assemblie  M'  John  Spicer  maior  M'  Peter  Whale 
M'  John  GifTord  M'  Samuel  Martin  and  M'  Francis  Rushworth 
are  nominated  Captains  to  be  enabled  to  raise  all  volutions 
(?  volunteers)  they  cane  to  be  in  companies  for  the  defence  of 
this  Towne." 

At  the  next  assembly,  held  on  July  17th,  it  was  voted  that  the 
aldermen,  bailiffs,  and  burgesses  of  the  assembly  be  all  enlisted 
under  the  five  captains  who  have  commissions  to  raise  volunteers 


443 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


in  Uir  town,  and  are  contented  and  agreed    to  act  onderl 
anns  for  exercising,  and  for  the  defence  and  safety  of  the 
and  not  otherwise. 

In  1648,  diverse  Scotch  soldiers  who  had  been    taken 
were  sent  to  Northampton  to  be  there  detained  till  (urtber 
The  assembly,  on  September  5th,   agreed   tliat    the  mayor 
pay    the    prisoners'    charges,    and   that    he  should    be   evt 
reimbursed  out  of  the  chamber,  or  out  of  the  next  tomi  oen. 

In  January,  1648-9,  the  assembly  imposed  a  cess  of  £50  oa  il 
householders  of  ability,  to  repay  the  charges  to  which  the  inft> 
keepers  and  alehouse  keepers  had  been  exposed  by  the  frcqatsi 
bilictting  of  soldiers.  In  the  following  April,  50s.  of  thb>  aioBej 
was  assigned  to  Richard  Holies,  laic  postmaster,  towards  hit  \oa 
of  a  house  which  was  -suddenly  taken  and  employed  for  the  sUU 
service.  Tlic  billctting  of  soldiers  on  the  innkeepers  and  alduNW 
keepers  continuing,  a  further  cess  of  ^30  toward*  their  rriief  wt 
voted  by  the  assembly  in  December,  1649. 

A  special  case  ot  hardsliip  was  relieved  by  the  aueinblT  t 
November.  1650.  A  billcttcd  soldier,  entertained  by  Widow  Tayiii 
a  poor  victualer,  fell  sick  on  her  hands,  and  was  nursed  by  bcr  tl 
the  time  of  his  death;  30s.  was  voted  towards  her  citargcs. 

The  DeuouTtON  ok  the  Walls  and  Castle. 

As  soon  as  the  restoration  was  an  accomplished  (act,  tbe  tt&j 
gave  ordcr-i  for  the  immediate  demolition  of  the  walls  of  NortbaapHi 
The  duty  of  seeing  to  the  execution  of  this  work  was  conuBinl 
to  the  EarU  of  Exeter  and  Westmoreland,  who  had  been  sdBI 
together  as  joint  lord-lieutenants  of  the  county  of  Northampton 
July.  1660. 

There  was  some  delay  in  carrying  out  the  Royal  order,  tai  tl 
Domestic    State    Papers  contain    iIk   following    tnterc^ting 
from  Sir  Edward  Nicholas,  Secretary  of  Sut«,    to   the  twoj 

Mr  L^t>ii,~I  tian  reoeTCd  both  yor  l^t«n  of  ye   1  itk  a^  latk  iwmati 
WUlouehbv.  &  have  trad  thetn  both  to  hit  Mii)^  wtto  cmhwmJj  am  to 
rMHnut   hi*   Ikinkw   to    jne  Lonl    Cullen,   L-onI    Speaker,   Sr    JiuitcUn   I*h 
TImnom  Cave.  Sr  San  Danvcn.  Mf.  Suflonl.  and  Mr.  CIcflnt.  foc  Dcpsr; 
for  lli*lr  [orwardtM*  lb  jMut  ytm  In   pnttliic  Hb    Mt*  c^imaadt    [a 
dsmoliihlng  ye  walta  of  Norlliainpior.      H»  i^h  eoKtidan  ^  ' 

yv»n,  aad  tknt  yt  appraacUof  Harvest  wi>  <   [.abo«f«t  tti  Inta^ 

eanecfiw  and  plin  Is  y*  Munlry,  aad   thcnfore,  jv   «rMk»   r««)atnii][   k»rt. 
COOMBt  JH  fa»  aaapmjm  KOiM  at  j«  walllomch  ponona  of  y«  Toimwm  mli 


SOttTHAJIPTOS  AND  THE  COMMONWEALTH  STRUGGLE.      443 


^id  cbaqic  <d  t^ltrinfi  it  dMroe,  so  as  it  be  speedelj  vm)  ttirongty 
tBwd :  bnt  it  cboae  «'  je  Towne  shall  refuse  or  delaj  je  demolishi^  je  walls  on 
■etBmas,  van  nnr  tben  asiga  ve  materialls  to  such  lojall  persons  of  ye  ndf^ 
nii^  emniTT  spaa  je  saioe  coodirions  as  jor  Lc^  shall  thinke  6n  ;  and  it's  hoped 

■  tfais.  GogEths-  vxh  :hc  50G.  vch  Ijes  ready  in  mj  Ld  Trcar's  hands,  to  be  need 
'  soch  poaons  as  joc  L^ips  ^all  appcKiit,  will  be  soffidcDt  eocouiagemt  for  carrjing 
»  oC  TC  WDrhc  U  not,  his  Matr  would  not  hare  tl  delaTed,  tfaougfa  it  shoald  occasion 
m  a  guMlei  ^nwKe ;  bat  therein  be  is  confident  yor  Lops  will  be  rerr  good  husbands 
m  Urn.    As  &w  «c  Cascle  vaid.  his  Maty  b  couent  jt  so  mnch  of  it  shoald  retnaine 

■  ■  mil  SMI  J  tor  ««  sfacfter  et  je  Jastices  in  je  Bench,  according  as  vor  Lops  desie- 
tai.  bx  JE  ArsKs  joa  have  seized,  re  King  desires  jya  would  cause  them  to  be  lajd 
if  Bsonesafc  ptacefor  «c  aseoi  je  Coaotry.   Astoror  Lops' Reijoestes  of  repajrir^ 

■  jOBc  homes  when  a  oonsdeiable  part  oj  te  Towne  shall  be  dismantled,  his  Uatj  is 
pi^cd  to  cetnplT  tfaaewth,  so  as  froni  time  to  time  je  retnme  to  hasten  je  busines 
^S  it  be  perfected.  &  jt  in  je  mease  time  50a  leare  some  of  vor  Deputy  Lienteoatus 
ft>  eieitoace  it  &  MXuit.  his  Hat's  peace,  least  there  should  be  any  disturbance. 

The  King  f>'^->»T  not  fitito  cocsest  toyor  reqcest  in  behalf  of  Mr-  Willongfal^, 
aa  hetieriDg  him  cot  oc  a  iorrsoe  answerable  to  ye  employmt,  bat  otherwise  he  hath 
apadoos  fifffT  t£  hiai  for  the  zea]e  he  tJLpti-iJLJ  to  his  Malr's  service,  which  be 
Amb  jtta  to  cherish  in  him.  I  hare  aaore  in  comaod,  Jnt  to  retome  his  Hat's 
kffr  tha&ces  to  yor  Lops  for  yor  dil^ence  and  actirity  in  pformaoce  of  fais  comands, 
todcRnyorcontinsancc.  A  so  I  hnmfa^  take  leave,  aod  cemaine, 
BiBptcn  CocTt.  Hy  Lords, 

disd  Voar  Lop's 

1]  Jciy,  itt2.  Host,  faithfall.  faamble  serrt, 

E.  X. 
T»,wEa:of  ExeMri-ie 
ferf  West3sor^a=i  Lord 
LiKa  d  je  Coc=ty  of 
KcRbsptoo. 

It  irill  be  noticed  from  die  above  letter  that  the  castle  was  also 
denuilsbed.  save  so  mtKC  as  wouid  sen>'e  for  assize  courts. 

At  the  assemblr  be;d  on  Oaober  9th.  1665.  the  following 
nteresting  order  was  passed.  The  town  was  evidently  anxious  to 
ilant  Oct  the  eyesore  m  their  wall-less  coadition : — 

In  May.  1663,  the  suai  of  £160  was  grantee  by  letters  of  pri^-y 
!3l  to  the  Earl  of  Exeter  "to  defray  the  charges  of  demolishing 
le  walls  of  His  Majesty's  towne  of  Non.ha^p:Q.i." 

""Ordered  that  M-  Hatton  Fanner  hath  a  leas*  of  tiw  tK-w 
isiures  and  croft  about  the  late  towne  waUs  thereunto  beUwigtnge 
r  the  tcrmc  of  forty  yeares  at  the  rent  of  five  pounds  '^r  aanurn 
-  soSciently  moiindinge  and  planting  the  same  with  tr':*n." 

Tbc  foandations  and  remnants  of  the  walls  s<x;n  <JtB^  Xf,  \/t 
aked  upon  as  quarries  for  building  stone,  but  in  \f>,t.^  vijit  iy' I'/f* 


444 


SORTHAMiTON    BOROUGH 


was  skipped  by  tlic  assembly,  who  or 
other  persons  thai  had  "  dug^  stone  att  tli 
walls  stood  bcc  forthwith  called  to  Ao 
that  they  pay  in  the  money  received  for 
Chamber,  or  els  that  ihey  be  sued  for  the 
Chamber  stock." 

The  west  gate  was  taken  doun  in 
for  the  new  buildings  at  ihe  conduit  h^ 
three  other  principal  gates  were  standir 
It  is  abundantly  cvidait  from  the  records  t 
town  watU  at  ihe  restoration  did  not  in 
txivcrcd  gateways  into  the  town. 


Soldiers  and  Traincl 

Under  this  heading  are  gathered  toget 
from  the  corporation  records  with  regard  f 
town  for  national  purposes,  and  to  trained 
liberties  and  for  the  defence  of  the  bore 
however,  to  soldiers  and  trained  bands  of 
wealth  stru^le  have  already  been  givei 
this  section. 

It  has  often  been  a  temptation  in  writ 
beyond  the  limit  marked  out  by  the  exta 
It  is  at  all  events  lawful  just  to  stale  he 
able  materia)  at  the  public  record  oHice  I 
the  town  with  regard  to  the  supply  of  natior 
from  the  thirteenth  century.  One  jnsta 
May  2ist,  1332,  the  mayor  received  the  1 
forty  armed  men  to  meet  the  king,  on 
Newcastie-on-Tyne,  to  proceed  against  H 
also  to  provide  funds  (or  their  support  fo 
only  the  strongest  men,  It  is  some  nu 
ance  of  towns  at  that  period  (though  fl 
note  that  only  one  town  was  ordered  W" 
namely  Winchester,  which  had  to  fumisli 
had  to  supply  forty,  Exeter  twenty -six,  O 
bury  and  Cambridge  twenty,  Letceste^B 

The  first  reference  in  the  orders  of  m$ 
soldiers  at  the  expense  of  the  (own,  under 
is  on  Dec  10,  1585,  when  the  assemblyJ 


NOBTHASIPTON  AND  TVfE  COMMONWEALTH  STHt'CCLE.      445 


Tkit  Iket*  stulbc  ■  Mccuniwin  made  10  (htnlvw*  c(  Syxtejnv  pon*(b  for  tbs 
jfingt  lulW  of  ibr  SarwkHrra.  4Ih1  iheix  on  llie  Soswon  appoxiKed  Mr.  jofca 
Mr.  Ct**toII  Mf.  Kotbiwl  Mr.  Ffeare  Mr,  CoIIm  Mr.  Brriwflo  Mr. 
juaior,  V;-rKX3t  Grcfone  John  Glover  Tfaomu  Horainy  Lawrjuocr  BiU  to 
CeOKton  for  (fc*  mok. 

A  Bystem  evidently  prevailed  in  Northanipton  of  excusing  payment 
'  ihe  ftuldier  ccs»  pnnided  (he  one  assessed  was  ready  personally  to 
in  1590  ihe  ii&sembly  resolved  : — 

Tku    WUIl4ra    Atlijnu,    glove/.  abaJl    hare    p»rile    him  bj-    the   lowne  Power 
wWdw  hee  pafde  anit  l37«(Ic  out  for  the  prorlsMjo  of  the  Suldien  In 
hce  lervcd  klmKUe  oi  *  Soldyer. 

A  small  levy  of  £j  for  the  furnishing  of  soldiers  to  serve  in 
eland  was  tnade  in  the  town  in  the  autumn  of  1.V55.  and  the 
tbiy  wisely  decided  to  defer  the  raising  of  this  money  until 
me  other  taxation  or  assessment  should  be  made.  In  cases  like 
his  the  money  would  be  advanced  out  of  the  town  chest. 

At  the  meeting  of  the  assembly  in  September.  1506,  it  was  stated 
the  sum  of  ^5  bad  been  di&bursed  during  the  year  out  of  the 
iber  stock  "  for  the  fumUhing  and  setting  forthc  of  souldters  into 
eliuid,"  and  that  about  ;^t5  more  was  demanded  of  them  for  a 
ce  purpoftT.  It  was,  therefore,  resolved  to  form  an  assessment 
imiltce  of  twelve  members  to  raise  j^20,  the  moneys  to  be 
thered  by  tlic  constables  of  the  different  wards. 

In  Seplcmber,  1597.  the  aiscmbly  ordered  £\<i  to  be  raised  by 

ssmrnt,  In  refund  £6  for  furnishing  soldiers,  which  bad  been 

Ivanccd  in  April,  and  a  farther  »um  of  ^13  rccimtly  disbursed  "  for 

furnishing  and  arayeinRc  of  Souldiers  to  wit  Fyve  with  armor 

-pon  and  irayncingof  them  intended  to  be  imployed  in  the 

.-ith  the  Ki)(ht  Honorable  the  Earle  of  EIsscx." 

repeated  levies  for  soldiers  in  an  unpopular  war  evidently 

'with  much  tacit  resistance  at  Northampton.     Many  of  the  Jn- 

abitanis  refund,  and  continued  to  refuse  to  pay  their  share.     In 

ay,  159!^.  the  ntiayor's  serjeant  was  instructed  to  make  a  furthur 

id  on  those  in  arrears,  and  the  defaulters  were  warned  that 

rendered  themselves  liable  to  be  kept  in  ward  by  the  mayor's 

Erl^eant  until  paj-mcnt  was  made.     The  ward  constables  were  at  the 

time  ordered    to  make   immediate  account  of  all  they  had 

Bived  for  the  war  tax  under   pain  of  imprisonment. 

In  September,  159S.  it  was  notified  to  the  assembly  that   Cs  S*- 

bad  been  adx'anced  during  the  year  as  the  town's  share  towards  the 


446 


KORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


eoct  of  furnishing  a  hundred  soldiers  for  the  war  in  IreUitd  tnm  (k 
town  and  county  of  Northampton,  and  ihac  demand  wa»  tha  beiii| 
mad«  for  £6  15s..  as  the  town's  share  in  the  fumiftbing  of  ret  anothi 
hundred  soldiers  from  the  same  touii  and  county.  The  aasenAlfi 
departing  from  the  precedent  of  the  last  two  years,  now  dettmam 
to  maJce  an  assessment  of  J^i2  oa  "the  inhabitanlft  of  habtlkje;* 
To  carry  out  this  delicate  assessing,  the  following  were  appoinwdj- 
•■  In  the  Checker  warde,  Roger  Pendlrton.  constable,  Lawicnce  Bifl 
the  elder;  in  the  East  ward,  Thomas  Harrison,  consuble.  TTicoa 
Bradford ;  in  the  South  \vafd.  John  Meynard,  constable,  Hemi 
Sjrmondes,  Henry  Chadwick;  in  thr  West  warde.  Richard  Brilli^ 
constable.  Thomas  Potter,  Piehard  Potter  ;  in  the  Norti  wvi. 
Thomas  Atkins,  constable.  Hugh  Coles,  Robert  Randes  the  BWer" 
The  costly  war  as3'"St  Ireland  resulted  va  £7  loa.  bctaglcW^ 
on  Northampton  in  the  following'  December,  which  was  tivuid 
out  of  the  chamber  stock.  It  will  be  noted  how  Ihc  exprnKS  iat 
famishing  the  hundred  soldiers  from  the  county  and  tunn  gradnllf 
increaswd-  On  February  i6t.h,  1598-9,  "tKlic  shillinRS  at  theleajtl 
was  required  in  addition  "for  the  appareltnge  of  suche  soidtenai 
shalbc  pressed  out  of  the  towne "  for  service  in  Ireland,  mil  ihf 
assembly  had  again  to  raise  j^io  from  the  inhabitants  of  abifiiyli 
pay.  The  commissioners  of  musters  were  at  llut  lime  at  NcHlb^ 
amptoD  Castle  to  set  the  press  gangs  at  work  in  town  and  cow^ 
On  February  27th  of  the  same  year  the  Northampton  assoMf 
levied  another  j^  on  the  town  for  a  like  purpose  in  aJjh 
manner.  ^M 

In  June.  1509.  the  demands  of  the  Privjr  Council  increajedTuB 
town  and  county  of  Northampton  being  then  required  to  fornill 
one  hundred  and  fifty  soldiers.  The  press  gan^  wus  set  to 
again  in  Northampton,  and  £13  6s.  6d.  was  levied  by 
on  all  the  inbabitanis  "being  of  habiliiie  to  contrihuie  the 

The  sum   of  ^"15   had   to  be   raised   in   Northampton   fa 
soldiers  ill   Ireland  in  February,  tS99>]6oo.     At  the  umc 
further  demand  on  behalf  of  cavalry  was   mode  oa    t3>e  toi 
this  claim  at  once  met  with  resistance.    The   following  U 
text  of  the  assembly's  order  :  — 

"  llcm  it  isi  agreed  and  ordeyned  that  whereas  diverse 
and    inhabitants  of    this    town?  are  assessed  by  the  contmb 
for  musters  tti  the  coimtie  of  Northampton  Lonardes  the  payii 
a  certain  sumc  of  moacy  for  the  furnishing  and  MUing  four 


NORThtAMPTON  AND  THF.  COMMONWEALTH  STRUGGLE.      447 

ioc  Dumber  of  Hor54!;:«  and  Horsemen  to  be  furnished  and  sett 

lithe  out  oi  the  countic  aforcsaidc  (or  her  ina*^  service  for  Ireland 

rdiug  Ihe  queenei  tna""  comtni^sian  and  the  directioD  of  the  right 

irablt  the  lordes  and  olher  of  the  quccnes  ma""  most  honorable 

ivic  counccll  by  Uieir  letters  to  t}ie  saidc  commissioners  directed. 

rasmtich  as  the  saide  Freemen   inhabitantcs  are  not  <as  is  cot»- 

Kvcd)  chargeable  or  to  be  charged  with  the  counttc  for  that  fiervic* 

virtue  of  the  said  letters  ;  That  therefore  a  letter  shalbc  dr^wne 

4cnt  lo  her  saide  ma*"  privie  courtcelt   to  know  their  honoures 

9easurc9  in  that  behalfe,  and  the  charges  ai   the  mosenKcr  that 

ibc  sent  with  the  saine  tetter  and  for  that  purpose  shalbe  borne 

^mi  d*-!rayed  at  the  comoo  charges  of  the  corporation." 

Ear  as  we  can  make  out  from  the  local  records  and  the 
laments  at  the  Public  Record  Oflice,  Northampton  was  successful 
resiatiog  this  endeavour  to  make   it  contributor}-  to  3  cavalry 


On  July  iitli,  1600.  the  assembly    found   themselves  compplted 
order   another  assessment  of  those  of  ability   for  £13,  as  the 
rn'i  share  of  a  further  contingent  of  soldiers  for  Ireland. 
During  July,  iCoi,  £16  was  raised  In  like  manner  for  2  similar 
jrpose. 

On    October  7th,    1601,  the  orders   of  assembly    seem    to  give 

ridence  that  the  Irish  war  was  coming  to  an  end.    The  commis- 

lers   for  musters'    last  demand  from    the  town  and  county  of 

Northampton  was  only  for  fifty  soldiers.     The  town,  as  their  share, 

roted  an  assessment  of  £,0 ;  but  a  fresh  precept  for  another  supply 

Boldiery  was  received  within  a  day  or  two  after  the  last-named 

This  necessitated  the  summoning  of   another  assembly 

u«r  i3th,  wlicn  it  was  agreed  to  amend  the  last  order  and 

ibe  an  assessment  of  j^ia  to  cover  both  demands. 

The  assembly  of  June  30th,  1613,  ordered  £ii  lo».  to  be  levied 

an  assessment  committee  on  the  townsmen  of  ability  (to  be 

illectcd  by  the  constable  of  each  ward)  for  the  fitting  of  armour 

other  necessary   equipment  for  those  of  the  townsmen  who 

cere  to  be   mustered  and  trained  for  his  majesty's  service.    This 

ras  about  the  time  when  the  country  was  much  disturbed  in  the 

jrs  of  Sir  Thomas  Uverbury.      In  the  following  year  £12  was 

lised  for  a  like  purpose. 

A  military   spirit   seems   at    this   period    to   have  laid   bold  of 

tovni&folk  of  Northampton.    In  [617  the  assembly  resolved  that 


MS 


SORTHAUPTON    BOROUGl 


"  Wlt«reas  the  inhabitants  of  this  towoe  ai 
fifth  dxj  of  Almost  oext  to  assemble  them& 
gmd  lo  exervtse  and  perform  some  marliall  i 
ordered  that  tbef  shall  have  the  sumc  ol 
and  delivered  ihttn  out  of  the  Chamber  st 
defrajing  of  their  cbarK:e  therein."  Il  w 
there  was  cotutdcrable  danger  of  Eogl< 
Earopean  war  through  the  attacks  of  Sii 
Spsnbh  settlements  oi  South  America. 

Id  Mandi,  1626,  the  mayor  of  Norihami 
the  PriT7  Council  for  the  levying  of  a  sum 
**  to  be  imptoyed  towards  the  furnishing  . 
Bod  cuaducting  of  Ooe  Hundred  souldicrs  0 
this  Countic  to  the  Pbrt  of  Loadon  then 
Ma"^  service."  At  an  assemhlj-  held  o 
meat  of  jCt6  was  voted  for  this  purpo^te. 
less  required  for  the  iil-jiK^cd  war  with  Sp 

On  May  Jjth,  1627,  the  assembly  "0 
founhwith  Twcfitie  Pounds  lent  out  of  the 
towank  the  defraying  of  the  charge  of  Bill 
said  towDc." 

At  another  afisembly.  held  oa  June  ; 
a  further  charge  of  bUletting.  Newly  Icvic 
on  the  mo\'e  throughout  England  at  this  ti 
nnfortunaie  expedilioo  of  the  Uukeof  Bui 
the  French    Protestants  at  Rochclle. 

In  1629  divers  victuallers  of  the  town  < 
been  lately  compelled  to  billet  many  sold 
expend-  Thry  staled  that  they  wcrr  p 
the  charge,  and  the  assembly  voted  £19  to  < 

A  muster  roll  of  26  armed  men,  or  aoi 
band,  is  given  in  the  2nd  vol.  of  the  ordc 
)'ear  1667. 

A   Ba   el   the  Tnfateil   SoUMn  apfOftnoi\ 

RoImk  Hnttw 
Rjchvil  Doot 

Tbwiua  FiUhuf  h 
Swonl*    Joarfkh  Dotnan 
„  Hrnry  Rofw*.  Pile* 

WUTutn  Oaluily 


)RTIlAMPTON    AND    THE    COMMONWEALTH    STRL'CCLE.     449 

John  Cliffonl  jus.  Swordt   Ttio.  Luy.     Pike 

Joltn  Bidlet  Jan.  „        Jo".  Coa  jun. 

John  Safind«n  ..        HatlltUt  Dhwm  jun. 

Robeft  tUrbert  „        Xatkaniel  Poller-     Pikt 

ItKhaid  Orvaj  „        Tbomu  Cbadwicke 

itlatihrm  Bxmta  ..        Siii»al  Haym 

William  Agutter  „       JoMthaa  EbratI 

Uie  chamberlain's  accounts  for  1680  we  6nd  that  £l  I3s.  8d. 
id  "for  Buttotis  for  redd  Coatcs  and  riboa  for  CoIoLrs  (or 
ers." 

Tbe  court  of  aldermCD,  meeting  at  the  George  inn  on  April 
4th.  1794,  unanimously  resolved  "That  Major  Kerr,  son  of  Dr. 
Vn.  Kerr,  a.  worthy  and  rcspccuble  inhabitant  of  this  Town, 
B<t  tbc  sanction  and  good  wishes  of  this  Meeting  for  raisinjf 
he  Complement  of  Men  directed  by  Goverament,  for  his  future 
iromoiion  al  which  they  heartily  wish  him  all  the  success 
NWible. " 

It  was   in    i-j^   that  the  first  volunteer  and  yeomanry  corps 
rm  being  formed  in  England,  through  the  fears  of  invasion  from 
and  disturbances  at  home. 

Arms  a.md  .\rmour. 
old   statutes  of  armour,  27  Henry  11.,  13  Edward   I.,  and 
Iward     III.,    by     which     all     subjects,     according     to     their 
were    bound  to  furnish  a  certain  quantity  of   arras  and 
T,  subject    to  annual   inspection,  wcr^.*  all  superseded  by  the 
aton  elaborate  act  of  4  and  5  Philip  and  Mary,  c,  a.  entitled  "An 
for  the   haveinge  of  Horse,  Armour  and  Weapon."     It  was 
this  last  act  that  the    local  forces   of   England   were    raised 
during  the  last  half  of  the  sixteenth  century.    James  I. 
'hat  altered  the  system  in  1604. 

e  fifth  section  of  the  Philip  and  Mary  act  provides  that 
"iJw  inhabitants  of  every  city,  burgh,  town,  parish  and  hamlet, 
^1  find  and  maintain  at  their  common  charges  such  harness  and 
weapons  as  shall  be  appointed  by  the  Commissioners  of  the 
"uslers  OD  View  of  Armour  within  such  city,  etc.,  and  the  number 
'^i  kinds  thereof  to  be  written  on  a  pair  of  indentures  to  be  made 
^•eeo  the  iaid  Commissioners  and  twelve,  eight,  or  four  of  the 
*>ief  of  every  such  city." 
The  assembly,  on  Nm-ember  8th,  1586,  ordered : — 

Tlai  Ibere  alnnM  a    Scemncnt  of  xxx"  Ksuaed  foe    Uw  liuyinge  of  ceneyne 
*»Onr  ant  other  rBrBjnirc  (or  the  serrice  of  the  Qtiacat*  H»'»"  «e«rfiftg  to  iIm 

EE 


4*> 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROt'CU    HECOIIDS. 


ContmjmioiMn  wananl  vtakh  MMHmtiM  jw  hy  ihe  wajw  ef  loan*  ai^  p  ■» 
9cca*c<l  witbin  Tcnne  dajm  next  eai«wt^;c  iIm  date  benof.  hf  tW  *ch« 
[ollowiR^  «ii,  HeoHe  Wandle;^,  William  fUjrnafonl.  Laonrtmet  B»M,  ftkal 
Glover.  Juho  Lowtcke,  VthtciU  Grrgorye,  WiltUn  Harpotl.  Tbon^*  ftOK,} 
RUkaKl  WaU>  ikcUM,  Johb  Watu.  Ilujk  Callo.  and  Rabctt  DaluMM.  w^  Itat 
are  alioe  cfaoaes  ct>Ikct(m  tar  tbe  sane  Scccnnent,  JalM  Dantevohe  «■!  Wsiin) 
BiUTOWi  who  an  to  collaa  ihe  ume  witUn  tenae  daj^a  nute  ^er  il«  hakrf 
Cotleaton  ihalbe  dali*«rad  to  Ui«m.  And  ta  aarttff*  III*  ■!■■!  ti  rban  tta 
Reliued  to  jiajre  the  SoeauDont  aceaxd  ojwd  xhtm  (a  Mr.  HaTor.' 

It  was  fufther  agced  at  tbe  same  time  that  any  ooc  rdumf 
payment  of  this  armour  tax  should  be  at  oue  coomitttd  tt 
gaol,  there  to  remain  till  tbe  cess  was  paid ;  and  that  tray  OM 
paying  the  cess  shall  be  repaid  "at  sutch  tytnc  and  tvnes  a>  tk 
chamber  of  the  Towne  shall  have  any  moneye." 

On  March  6th,  l6oi,  the  following  order  was  made  by  tUi 
assembly ; — 

li  jrs  agn^d  and  octUfnad  Tbu  «v«rte  penon  an  InhaUtant  aad  timfciifir 
whhin  ihb  towne  alull  More  ihv  foura  aad  nrcminh  da;*  cl  |B«e  no:  [ti—f 
proride  and  ltf«p«  a  rlub  standing  t*  toRM  pirtc  ol  hii  h*b!T>tlMt  tter*««h  )■  to 
readle  for  ih«  preurvatlon  of  (b«  Qu«ne»  Ka'^  pcaea,  bImb  eaad  ikaB  n^HK 
upoD  pain«  of  «r«rie  pcraon  not  pravldltif  to  fotfdi  aad  piyx  iw^JTcpcaBt" 

From    an    order    made    on    October    tith,    1605,   is   it    btr  u 
conclude  that  the  "keeping   the  peace"   by  means  of  tbe  hriT 
holder's  club  was  no  ofTence,  providing  there  was    no    sheddiae  el 
blood !    This  order   punished   any    one   drawing   knife,  iword,  iw  \ 
dagger  against  his  fellow   by  a  fiiK  oS  3s.  4d.,  and  if  bbod  mi  I 
sbed  the  penalty  was  dotibled 

la  1606  tv^'CDty  halberds  were  bought  at  the  town's  chai{;e  '*) 
be  eoif^oyed  and  used   in    the   belialfe   and  in    tbe  aHaircs  of  Ae' 
saide  ton-ne  from  tyme  to  tymc  as  occasion  sliall  requre- 

.\t  the    assembly   held  00    February  4lh,   1612,    "It   is  dccntidj 
ordered  aud  enacted  for  the  better  slrcngtheninge  of  this 
tion  againstc  advcrsane  powers  that  tbe  .Mayor  tor  the  time 
and  the  aldermen  bis  brethn:n  tatc  mayors  of  the  said  Tcwne  urfj 
the  Baylifs  and  all  tliuse  that  have  been  Bayliis  of  the  same ' 
and    the    Fourtic  and   eight    Burgesses  and   sucb   CoauBOoea 
habiliiie  *t  Mr.  Mayor  and  tlie  Justice  shall  thinke  iStt  ahall 
vide  at  their  owne  charge  on  this  side  and   before   the   feaa* 
of  Easter  next  ensueing  such  Armour  and  (umcitutc  to  iland  md 
rcadic  in  their  bouses  as  followeth  that  is  to  stye  tbe  mayor 
aldermen  and  his  bncLhrcn  cverie  one  al  them  sevcraUy  a 


452 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


Oil  June  J61I1,  16^3,  there  »  an  interesting  and  remarlcabt 
entry  in  the  orders  of  assembly.  It  w  rather  curious  to  fi; 
Sir  Christopher  Yelverton,  who  had  only  been  made  a  baronet  by 
the  king  in  1631,  should  be  now  taking  so  decided  a  stand  on  the 
part iaincalary  side.  The  interest,  however,  of  his  family  with  ihe 
town  of  Northampton  was  very  mtiinale,  for  both  his  father  and 
grandfather  had  been  recorder*  for  over  half  a  century.  Monu- 
ments to  the  memories  of  these  three  Yclvcrtons  still  remain  in 
church  of  Easton  Maudnlt. 

Whcreu  it  hath  plnued  ths  Rifrht  Wo"  S'  Chmtofer  Yelvertim  tonight  11  the 
nquCHt  of  ibc  Corporation  to  iiend  foe  prtsent  mbo  for  <lef«n«:  of  tlib  towva  to 
thit  lUngvrAut  lymr  of  w;ir  and  delivor  by  the  haadt  of  Mr.  Witts  dinrM  pamlU 
of  Arms  atid  Amunition,  the  partkulau  whereof  ate  hcccundet  vrriiten.  Kowe  it  b 
a][rF«d  anil  cosolved  and  by  this  whale  ABB«inb1i«  pnwniwd  That  th«  same  Ann* 
and  Amunition  shalbe  rutored  a^ine  upon  denuund.  Or  to  caw  ftidt  tt  iha  lant 
shalbc  spent  or  lufttc  th^t  the  value  and  quantitic  of  the  same  Ana>  and  ABWaiClqa 
be  spent  or  loxt  «h.i!bc  rendered  or  rotored  (o  tbe  uid  S'  Cfariitofer  hit  excMod 
or  adniiijiMtatots  by  the  CurporatioD. 


tfl^ 


Twoc  drakes  vith  carlagn 

Twoe  aprons  for  the  *ame 

Four*  Cheynes 

F»ur«  Bridge  bdtralb 

Twoe  Horns 

Tvroe  Lynatocla 

Twoe  Totnieinii 

Twoe  Bntinert 

Twoe  Sponges 

One  Worme 

Twoc  [.adics 

One  hundred  attd  teone  *hott 

Twentie  eiuht  B.iiidileets 

Two  Bundlci  and  a  half  of  matche 


Thirtte  ayne  Cast  shott 
Pyve  baj^gea  of  small  bullet* 
Twenile  eight  miukcu 
Eighlenc  Pike* 
Thirtie  Reui 
Searcn  twoida 
One  barrell  of  powder 
One  bundell  of  chargM 

Tli«w  eitme  fmC 
Six  sranadoes 

Thirtie  twoe  C**l  thot*  of  T)mM 
Three  biKTKe*  of  bullet* 
One  En.iij^c 


At  an  assembly  held  on  January  Tlh,  i66o<i,  it  u-as  orderrd 
"  that  all  ihe  Townc  Arms  of  this  Corporation  be  with  all  ipceJ 
fixed  and  made  fitt  for  service  at  as  easy  a  charife  as  may  bc.aail 
the  present  chambcrlaincs  out  of  the  Tonne  moneys  in  tJieir  hasdt 
are  lo  take  to  see  this  worke  done  accordingly." 

The  Earls  of  Exeter  and  Westmorland,  as  joint  lord-lieutcntaU 
of  the  county,  were  not  only  ordered  to  sec  to  the  demolition  ii 
the  town  walls,  but  also  to  secure  all  the  arms   in  the  official 
po»sessioa  of  the   burgesses.      On   their   removal   the  town  cJtti 
drew  up  the  following  interesting  list  of  the  weapons,  etc,  of  wl*** 
they  were  deprived  ; — 


NORTHAMPTON  AND  THE  COMMONWEALTH  STRUGGLE.       453 

An  inventorjr  or  accompt  of  the  Town  Arms  taken  out  of  the  Towne  Hall 
then,  by  order  of  the  Lords  L"  of  the  County  of  Northampton  the  17th  day  of 
Julj,  as  Colloweth  : — 

Huslcetts  fixed Six  score  and  two,  whereof  20  for  the 

Traine 

Blunderbusses        ...  ...  Two,  wherof  one  left  with  Capt.  Ekins. 

(These  were  brass) 

Mnsketts  unfixed        ...  ...  Twenty  seaven 

Match         Doe  hundred  and  a  halfe  weight 

Old  Swords Thirty 

Old  headpeeces     ...  ...  Twenty  three 

Old  skirts  for  plkemen        ...         ...         ...     Power,  and  one  breast 

Hand  Granadoes ...  Seaven 

Cartbnige  cases  ...  ...      Fifty  six 

Earthen  Granadoe  shells  ...         ...  Fifty  nine 

Iron  Granadoe  shells...         ...     Two 

Wooden  Cases  for  small  shott  for  Cannon        Two 
Peeces,  being-  Implements  for  lireworkes  ...     Three 

M'  There  was  six  new  traine  pikes  all  marked  with  the  Towne  marke  left  in 
the  Towne  Hall,  for  the  Townes  use  for  tymes  of  traineing. 

Allsoe  there  was  left  of  old  Armer  five  suites,  besides  three  breasts. 

Watch  and  Ward. 

One  of  the  most  burdensome  duties  imposed  upon  town  bur- 
gesses was  that  of  keeping  watch  and  ward.  Never,  even  in 
times  of  peace  could  this  duty  be  relaxed,  for  the  times  were  such, 
that  every  householder  was  expected  to  have  his  weapon,  even  if 
it  were  nothing  more  than  a  club  or  bludgeon,  as  we  have  seen 
was  provided  in  the  Elizabethan  days  of  Northampton.  Each  ward 
in  the  town  had  its  definitely  appointed  constable  and  thirdbo roughs. 
Moreover,  the  sergeants  had  their  special  duties  in  the  times  of 
night  disturbance.  But  yet  it  was  recognised  that  "  for  the  safety 
of  the  community,"  each  householder  was  bound  to  take  his  turn 
in  keeping  nightly  watch  and  ward  in  the  streets,  unless  formally 
excused  by  the  assembly, 

An  excuse  of  this  kind  in  consequence  of  old  age,  occurs  at  the 
very  opening  of  the  first  book  of  the  orders : — 

M*  that  the  first  day  of  August  in  the  third  and  fourth  yercs  of  reigi^es  of 
Kynge  Phillipe  and  Queue  Marye,  Thomas  Ferebrother  being  above  the  age  of  \xx 
yer«s  was  pardoned  and  licensed  from  all  manner  of  ,watchis  and  sutes  of  coiirte 
by  Anthony  Brian  mayor. 

The  following  elaborate  regulations  with  regard  to  this  duty 
■were  passed  by  the  assembly  on  May  nth,  1599: — 


454 


NORTHAMPTON   BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


Yt  U  IgceBd  onl.tined  and  SAftctcd  lital  evefie  bouuboldu  wUhin  tliis 
or  the  tibertiet  oi  precinctu  tbereaf  that  at  ante  tTroe  berealter  sbal)  bare  soonnae 
or  irarning  given  unlu  him,  ut  «Uc  at  hii  dwelling  bouM  with  oat  of  hi*  hcmboM 
of  Buflicianl  diicretion.  to  w.itcli«  wiihin  (ha  aaida  towiM  or  praciMtts  tbafaof.  t^ 
the  Nrjeant  to  the  m.-ux  of  ibe  bailEilTca  o{  ibe  uidc  towne  eveiie  Serjeant  for  lite 
tytne  being  in  hta  warde  or  wanl^r,  or  in  the  «)Mef)ee  ar  want  of  aaie  wiJAaof  )a 
bis  watde  ani«  otber  Serjeant  shall  come  bitnsclfc  s\ifScicnt1ic  fumishMl  lo  watch, 
or  fend  a  luflicicnt  and  able  per*on  lufficiefttlic  fuinUhed  xo  watdw,  lo  tht  dwelling 
houie  of  the  cunilsble  of  luch  warde,  wher«  he  sbiill  have  had  Minancat  or  warning 
glv«n  as  aforeuidc  to  watchc,  and  U  Ruch  t/me  aa  ha  shall  have  had  m«b«kc  v 
warning  given  ss  aforesaid*  to  walehe,  to  receive  hta  charge,  aad  ewaria  andk 
penan  shall  there  continue  in  civill  and  quiet  manner  at  the  consiabte  bb  honiei 
until!  he  have  rer«aved  his  chaige  of  the  constable  or  bis  depelte  in  Ibe  absMiM 
of  the  nonstable  apon  p^ine  of  anie  hou««hold«r  not  coming  himself*  or  wndtag  a 
Ruilicient  and  able  person  luflirientlic  fiirniithed  lo  n-Atche  to  forfcite  for  crcrie  nche 
defiule  twelvepenM,  And  thnt  everle  person  that  shall  hereafter  reccae*  charge  of 
the  constable  or  his  deputie  of  watching  arw!  shall  not  watch  shall  forfeit  forertcie 
xuche  ofl^ence  lixepencv.  All  which  forfeiture*  aforcMtdc  io  thi>  on!«r  trieatJa— d 
■hall  goe  -ind  be  implojvd  for  the  use  of  the  majror  baillifles  and  burgesno,  Aad 
jrC  M  further  en.-icted  that  vl  shalbe  lawfull  for  the  tnayar  to  committ  ererie  penes 
that  shall  offend  or  do«  eontririe  to  (hit  ordinance  and  refeaa  to  paye  the  peBaVbe 
or  forfeiture  aforc^dc  by  him  forfcrled  to  priton,  there  lo  rctnainc  untill  the  Miilc 
foHeiture  ilulbe  paid.  Provided  allwaye«,  and  yt  be  farther  ordiinod  that  yf  one 
person  afarMaide.  to  whom  soinanco  or  warning  shalbe  given  or  left  as  oforcsaide, 
aboil  make  ddault  to  came  or  Mod  a  aufllcieni  and  able  pfmon  to  rcceare  tie 
charge  u  aforesaide  That  then  the  conilable  of  that  worde  or  his  dopntit  in  Ui 
absen<--e  shall  hire  and  provide  a  sulDclcnt  able  person  to  waiche  in  the  Mead  sod 
rorneth  of  every  parson  for  making  defaulte,  and  paye  to  s«eJt  person  >oe  hjrwt 
and  procured  to  watch  for  his  watcbinge  what  tbe  said  constable  or  hU  depoii* 
ahali  hyre  him  for  and  that  lo  be  allowed  Is  the  conMoble  ogaine  ow  *d  t^ 
penaltlM  and  forfminre*  aforesaide. 

Amongst  a  variety  oE  repressive  orders  of  1605,  occurs  one  pro- 
hibiting any  townsman  (ram  walking  in  tbc  streets  after  nine  o'clock 
in  the  evening,  unless  he  is  carrying  a  light;  forbidding  any 
handicraft.sman,  sen^ant,  or  labourer,  playing  by  day  or  night  at 
"dycc  cardcs  tables  bowlcs  or  any  other  unlawful  games:  and  thai 
no  innkeeper  or  alehouse  keeper  allow  sucbe  games,  or  ha«x  in  his 
house  dice,  cards,  tabks.  etc.,  or  keep  open  at  prohibited  limes." 

This  order  is  mentioned  here,  as  those  serving  on  watch  ofld 
ward  had  to  be  responsible  for  the  due  obser\'ance  of  such  bn- 
laws  as  these,  as  well  as  the  arresting  of  st  rangers,  or  the  keefWig 
of  the  king's  peace  in  uny  fray  that  might  arise. 

At  the  assembly  of  May  Stii,  1640,  it  was  ordered  thil  daring 
those  dangerous  times  a  bailiff  and  one  of  the  forty-eight  shoiM 


NORTHAMPTOK  AND  THE  COMMONWRALTH  STRUGGLE.      455 

patrot  every  oigfat  "to  viewc  and  oversee  the  watch  as  well  for 
countenuice  as  directions  upon  anie  occasion  upon  paine  of  forfeiture 
of  xij*  a  pcccc  for  cveric  default." 

On  January  ist.  1641-2,  it  was  provided,  (or  the  further  safety 
of  the  coTX>nilion,  that  a  u*atch  of  twenty  men  should  be  set  every 
night,  that  is,  four  out  of  each  ward;  and  that  every  householder 
whatsoe^'er  shall  be  diarged  to  watch  in  his  own  person  or  else  to 
I  find  a  snjfficient  substitute  upon  summons  of  the  ward  sergeant; 
and  that  there  shall  also  be  one  bailiff  and  two  of  the  forty-eight 
to  oversee  the  n'^atch  ever)*  night,  and  that  the  watch  begin  at 
eight  o'clock  at  night.  At  an  assembly  held  nine  days  later,  that 
part  of  the  last  order  relative  to  the  bailiffs  and  the  two  forty- 
eight  men  was  repeated  and  emphasised,  they  being  ordered  to 
meet  in  the  market  place  at  eight  p.m.,  and  to  walk  ihroughouc 
tbe  town  all  night  to  and  fro,  under  penalty  of  12*  each,  and  any 
one  making  breach  of  this  order,  and  refusing  to  pay  the  forfeit 
to  be  at  once  impnsooed. 

In  November,  164a,  the  nightly  overseers  of  the  watch  were 
iDCtrasctt  fiom  three  to  eight,  the  eight  being  chosen  by  rotation 
from  the  bailiffs  and  former  bailiffs,  aivd  the  forty-eight.  Two  of 
U>e  eight  overseers  were  to  watch  and  guard  at  the  castle,  and  the 
other  SIX  to  ride  the  round  of  the  town  by  turns  all  nighL 

The  following  special  order  was  made  on  8th  November, 
1645:- 

ft'hcteu  lh>*  CorporAiMn  t>  in  great  dttifror  in  thU  tjow  of  CivtH  Warn  by 
tcason  ol  thr  ranthsoas  sitd  tbckncs  of  Muldiars  at  the  guardos  and  by  retiMn  of 
ti^chnie  nhich  u  mqcb  fearMl,  And  wbweas  there  «re  Elearen  places  of  gMardc  in 
tkb  lowd*,  It  b  igtt*d  and  onhred  that  Avari*  hoiiwholder  and  man  of  qualttte 
In  AU  libenie.  m  ^Kalbr  tbciu{;ht  (itt  by  a  teSrctc  romilire  choMD  10  thts  purpOM, 
abati  watdi  in  tbcir  own*  ffr-rtom  twtK  at  a  guaide  «vcrie  lugbt,  tnch  guarilf  at 
IlicU  loitf  ahall  tall  to  tram  tyme  10  ifmc,  aad  that  lotts  ahslbe  made  and  Orawne 
ts  ihi*  patpme.  so  at  whkli  goanl  eveilc  iwoo  xball  imtrh  upon  paine  of  cTcrie 
ae*«Rill  frrtoa  n*t{U«tin£  l»  come  10  th«  hatl  oir«r  the  oof>duit  at  ani«  otie  oifcht, 
bjr  rIm  of  ihf  clnclc  to  tliU  purpose  harlnc  had  warning  by  a  scrsunl  to  tho 
mace  of  the  Baililb  of  this  towna  lo  forieitc  and  pay  ij*  vj*  for  everie  tcTcrall 
onuauoD,  the  see  half  el  wMdi  Earfayturs  from  tyme  to  tyme  nbalbe  to  the  oic  of 
th<  Sar)[e;ir.t  that  wiirnctb  btm  and  omitieih  roniing  and  the  other  half  to  tbe  tise 
of  him  that  be  flhould  have  guarded  wltball  if  b«  had  «om«,  And  it  ti  farther 
ordand  thtU  it  anie  person  shall  refuse  10  pay  hia  foifeytctc  upon  Dcmaaiid  tbctrof 
That  tficn  it  thalbe  lawfull  for  Mr.  Maior  of  thia  lovac  (or  the  tyme  h^og  to 
Appoint  anl«  olficar  or  peraon  by  warrant  under  hU  hand  and  aeala  to  levl*  the 
tame  by  dtitraa  ol  everie  Refuunia  goods  aotl  cattclls.  And  h  b  also  ordered  that 


436 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


sucb  penona  u  tbi  aaid  vclecte  Comittce  tluntnoE  oot  £tt  to  c>urd  ai  mfiHiiiiiil 
2|>pait>t  and  wnd  a  worliman  or  Ubor«r  lo  work  at  rh«  walli,  and  sball  Mod  a 
workman  or  laborer  nccordinglj-  upon  notice  given  him  oTcrnijhi.  npon  paiao 
lileewiae  ct  forfeytnre  of  Iwoe  sbiUingt  and  •ixepenee  for  everie  ooiiniofi,  iKe  hum 
fwfeytun  to  be  Itv'ied  by  dijtrew  in  like  manner. 

The  assembly  resolved,  in  June,  1648,  tliat  there  waa  special 
need  of  an  extraordinary  watch  in  the  town  and  liberties,  and  It 
was  agreed  that  the  sergeants  should  summons  six  out  of  each 
ward  night  by  night,  making  thirty  in  all,  that  is,  ten  more  than 
the  ordinary  watch.  All  summoned  were  to  watch  in  their  own 
persons  in  their  own  ward  from  sunset  to  sunrise,  or  to  provide 
"verie  able  men  in  the  romcth  of  them,"  and  in  default  to  pay 
2s.  6d. 

At  the  end  of  two  of  the  MS.  lists  of  mayors  of  Northampton, 
arc  entries  of  the  names  of  some  of  those  on  duty  as  night 
watchmen,  from  May  20th,  to  the  beginning  of  .\ugust,  1656,  in 
two  of  the  five  wards  of  the  town.  The  one  from  which  the 
list  is  copied  was  evidently  written  at  the  time  of  the  alarm,  when 
this  special  watch  of  four  from  each  ward  wa*  ordered.  The 
follomng  is  a  verbatim  copy ;  the  original  entries  are  in  double 
columns  for  the  chequer  ward,  and  in  single  column  far  the  east 
ward.  The  second  set  of  week-day  names  in  the  latter  ward 
evidently  refer  to  the  reappointment  of  the  same  four  watchmen 
at  a  later  date. 


The   Walchc*   begnn    the  Xf^  of   Hay 
Sptcer  then  Maior. 

Chaekunr  Ward. 
Tiieaday  nijclit  being  the  30'*  d»f  of  May 

M-  John  Boll 

M'  Daniel   Sjrnona 

Jftrcmiah  Freiod 

Richard  ClifTord 
Wednesday  night  the  21*^  day  of  May 

Thomaii  S<«v«nt 

Edmund  Archer 

John  Cocbrainc 

William  DaviioD 
Thursday  night  the  33"*  May 

M'  John  Pan- 

Thomu  Cvsns 

William  Crlmee 

Reben  Barrole 


1656   by   lh«  attpotntment  of   U'  Jeki 


Fryday  night  tba  a]**  May 

Thomas  Atkinea 

Edward  Cocker  (be  younfcr 

Joha  LabrSRi 

M*  Richard  Raaik 
S^tterday  DiKkt  iht  34*^  May 

M<  John  Smiett 

Edvrard  Medbery 

Samotl  Gibbs 

Richard  Hooke 
Swxlay  nighi  the  as*  May 

M'  John  Pr«tnd 

M'  Vaushan 

Jobn  Aabby 

Tbo:  Aleyley 


NORTHAMPTON  AND  THE  COMMONWEALTH  STRUGGLE.      457 


l&nda;  night  the  a^  Majr 

U'  JcAn  Sterens 

John  Sale 

William  Browne 

George  Manhall 
rwsday  a?*  Bfajr 

U'  R<%er  Williams 

John  Austin 

Edward  Atkines 

M'  Heniy  Lee 
Vtioeadaj  28«>  Ma; 

M'  Skarborow 

John  Elborow 

Edward  Gent 

Obadiah  Lord 
hnnda;  29"'  May 

Tho:  Sihby 

William  Rogers 

Sam:  Smith 

Robert  Itoij 
iTday  30"^  May 

Jo:  Scriven 

Ed:  Parker 

M'  Jo:  Selby 

M'  Peach 
atterday  si""  May 

Ed;  Cricke 

Tho:  Houghton 

Raphael  Coldwell 

Jos  Keyes 
Dnday  night  1'^  June 

Goodman  Pattison 

Jo:  Stannard 

M'  Kymbole 

M'  Massey 
(onday  night  2^  June 

Paul  Matlocke 

W"  Lowick 

John  Hensman 

Tho:  Storer 
"uesday  night  the  3''  June 

Jo:  Neale 

M'  Ed:  Cooper 

M'  Tho:  Cooper 

Tho:  Rands 


Wednesday  4"'  June 

James  Walker 

M'  JoKph  Hensman 

Tho:  Bradford 

Mathew  Andrewes 
Thursday  5'^  June 

Peter  Dunckley 

Tho:  Dunckley 

Wm;  Flaxney 

Goodman  Price 

Ftyday  night  6"*  June 

John  Brookes 

Wm:  Lane 

Tho:  Pidgeon 

John  Digby  thelder 
Satterday  night  7"'  June 

Ed:  Oldham 

M'  Jo:  Atterbury 

Ed:  Cocker  thelder 

Rich:  Masse  nberg 
Sunday  night  8"<  June 

M'  Sam;  Poole 

M'  Whiston 

Robt:  Coles 

Jo:  Clarke 
Monday  night  g*^  June 

William  Spencer 

Henry  Dover 

Tho:  Atterhery 

Jo:  Cox 
Tuesday  night  lo"*  June 

Daniel   Harbert 

Jeremy  Harbert 

John  Mercei 

Rich;  Dust 
Wednesday  night  11''  June 

Samuel  Harbert 

Fraunces  Roy 

Jeremy  Stevens 

William  Thorpe 
Thursday  night  12"'  June 

Sam:  Cricke 

Sam:  Wickens 

Sam:  Stevens 

Clifford  Cockerill 


FnAsy  nigW  13"  Jane 
M"  Hcnty  Scratfoed 

Tfcitt:  Cbapman 

That  BTOokes 
Ei  Tebbutt 
Satteeiaj  mght  14''  June 
Ja^d  Caudetl 
Geocge  Davison 
]-aha  Stee*ens 

Jmb«  Rogers 
Sunday  nl^i  ij*^  Jniw 
Edward  Reeve 
Ben:  Tip  lady 
MuhefT  Sitiflelon 

Mteidav   night    t6*  JUBt 

Ruben  Coles 

Tbonjjs  Taylor 

Stephen  H.uau.6 

Sam;  Hamun 
Tnodav  night  the  ir"  (d  June 

Rich;  D«i(i{«n 

GMximan  Sloth 

M-  John  &UI 

M'  Danid  SrmOA^ 
Wedne«daj"  fiijht   iS"  oE 

R;l-.i.  Ci:::orJ 

M^   EdrTTjri  Archer 

Charles   T„r;.i:ii'. 

nor 

b   no:  yv5  nice  for  i; 

li;iei  c  «-h3t  a  Toole  u  b' 

Th;;rsiiy   r^ii;;-,:    -.-■.e    19-''   of  Jar.e 

_'oh:i   Cockr.'ire 
\V.'!!  1:11    Divison 

Kry.i.iy  ni^h;   ihf   ;iV"   o;   |i;ne 
1  hk^    t.\  .ins 
Ko:-^rl   F.ir.-.i.e 
Tiio-   A:^ire> 
¥.d^\     ^  k>ckfr  the    ^"our^er 


Sunday  night  the  M*  lone  l^ 

Rich;    Hcwlce 

M'  John  Smith 
M""  John  Frtind 
JtihB  Aihbjr 

HottdAj  night  the  93*  fune  r!^ 
M*  Vaugban 
Tbtt  AUeyleye 
Jobn   IdSc 
M'  ]'>hn  Stevens 

Tuesday  night  the  W^  June  ififi 
W"  Browne 
Ge&rgC   MiirshBll 
Joi  Atntin 
Ed  Acliynes 

WedoexdAy  night  the  35*  Jhw 
M*  Roger  WiUiam* 
M"  Wm;  Skwborww 
M'  Henry   Lee 

John  El  borrow 

Tllurs<3.3v   niih;   ;:5"   of  Jone  iffB 
Edward  Gent 
Obadiah   Lord 
Tho.   Silsby 
William  Rogers 

Fryday  night  the  jj""  June 
Sam.  Smith 
Robert   Ivory 
John    Striven 
Edivard   Parker 

Sallerday   night  the  ::S'''  Jane  i6;'' 
M'  John   Selby 
M'  Thoi   Peach 
Edw-.ird  Cricke 
Tho    Ha.;i;h:on 


*  r.".f  [:^i\»*r'i  .-Icrk  here  br^■^kc  rut  into  a  jest '  Pois.biy"  soinf  ciiibbed  AldrTmnn  wit 
mi'mc-.t  -.'o)..n(:  over  h-i  ihjjl.:rr-  The  rcndchnfr  of  thi*  *ritfen  joke  is— "  Be  net  «i>e  i 
nikT.  tv'-   you   !;EtJP  *ce  whiT   a  tool  TOD   be  '  " 


NORTHAMPTON   AND  THE  COMMONWEALTH  STRUGGLE.      459 


Sundaj  night  the  a^*^  Jun*  l6sS 

John  Royes 

Goodman  PaKissoa 

John  Stannard 

Jo:  Preston 
Monday  the  30**  June  1S56 

M'  K/mboId 

M'  Massey 

Paul  Matlocke 

Wm:   Lowicke 
Toesday  night  the  fint  of  July  1656 

John  Hensman 

Thomas  Storer 

Jo:  Neale 

M'  Edward  Cooper 

Wednesday  night  the  second  of  July 

M'  Tho:  Cooper 

Tho:  Rands 

James  Walker 

M'  Joseph  Hensman 
Thursday  night  the  3*  of  July,  1656 

Thomas  Bradford 

Goodman  Sloth 

Mathew  Andrewes 

Peter  Dunckley 
Fryday  night  the  4'*  July  1656 

Tbo:  Dunckley 

Wm:  Flaxney 

Goodman  Price 

John  Brookes 
Satterday  night  the  5<^  July  1656 

Wm;  Lane 

Tho:  Pidgeon 

John  Digby  thelder 

Ed:  Oldham 
Sunday  night  the  6""  July  1656 

M'  John  Atterbery 

Ed;  Cocker  thelder 

M'  Richard  Masingberd 

M'  Sam;  Pooie 
Monday  night  7'"  July  1656 

M'  Whiston 

Robert  Coles 

John  CUrk 
Wm;  Spencer 


Tneiday  night  8^  July  1656 

Hen:   Dover 

Tho;  Atterbery 

Jo:  Cojt 

Daniel  Harbert 
Wednesday  night  the  Q'*  July 

Jeremy  Harbert 

Jo;  Mercer 

Richard  Dust 

Wmr  Thorpe 
Thursday  night  the  lo*^  July  1656 

Fra:  Royes 

Jeremy  Stevens 

Sam;  Harbert 

Sam;  Wickens 

Fryday  night  the  11'^  July  1656 

Sam;  Stevens 

Clifford  Cockerill 

M'  Stratford 

Tho:  Chapman 
Satterday  night  la'^  July 

Tho:  Brookes 

Edward  Tebbutt 

John  Caudell 

George  Davison 
Sunday  night  13""  July 

Jo:  Stevens 

James  Rogers 

Edward  Reeve 

Ben;  Tip  lady 
Monday  night   14"'  July 

Mathew  Singleton 

Richard  Browne 

Robt;  Coles 

Thomas  Taylor 
Tuesday  night  the  15'^  July  1656 

Steeven  Harman 

Sam  Harman 

Goodman  Deinton 

M'  John  Ball 
Wednesday  night  the  16*  July  1656 

M'  Daniel  Symones 

Jeremiah   Freind 

Richard  Clifford 

Charles  Turland 


460  NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 

East  Ward  20*  dajr  of  May  1656  Tuesday  night 

Edward  Webb 

John  Knight  31'^  July 

John   Hancock 

John  Smith 
Wednesday  night  the  21**  day  of  May 

Thomas  Wright 

Robert  Wbetston  i"  August 

Mathew  West 

William  Middleton 

Thursday  night  the  38^  Hay 

Thomas  Radford  Second  August 

Richard  Cley 

Robert  Brownsgrave 

William  Wright 
Friday  night  the  33*  May 

Anthony  C017 

John  Preston 

Edward  Nicholas  3^  August 

Geoige  Preistley 
Satterday  night  the  24'^  May 

Goodman  Judkyn  Sheapheard 

Goodman  Eales 

M''  Jo:  Scriven  4*^  August 

John  Bay  ley 
Sunday  night  35'^  May 

Tho:  L^undon 

Joseph  Jackson 

John  Sparks  5**  August 

Walter  Robinson 
Munday  night  36"'  May  1656 

M'Jo:  Gary 

William  Stonncr 

Geoige  Clarke 

Arthur  Burbedg 

27^  May  Tuesday  night 

Stephen  Asbby 

The:  Jeyes 

Anthony  Cox 

Goodman  Plowman 
28<^  May  Wednesday  night 

Richard  Keeper 

Mathew  Dawes  7^  August 

Jo!  Howes 

M'  Bennett 


RTHAMPTON  AND  THE  COMMONWEALTH  STRUGGLE.      461 


3g>^  May  Thursdajr  aight 

Protbero  Kibworth 

Jonas  Woodard 

Goodman  Hutchines 

William  Peters 
Fiyday  30*^  May 

James  Balding 

Wm:  Reynolds 

Wm:  Woodard 

Goodman  Haddon 
Satterday  31'^  May 

Wm:  Colemaa 

Henry  Allen 

George  Bott 

John  Evans 

Sunday  night  l'^  June 

Tho:  Burrowea 

Goodman  Holenby 

Tho:  Evans 

John  Stormer 
Monday  night  z'  June 

Jo:  Hewlett 

Wm:  Barnes 

Robert  Cory  sen' 

John  Smith 
Tuesday  night  the  3^  June 

Tho:  Haddon 

Tho:  A  lest  on 

Richard   Roberts 

Daniel  Child 
Wednesday  night  4""  June 

John  Porter 

Richard  Knott 

John   Hill 

George  Large 
Thursday  night  the  $"•  June 

George  Daves 

Tho:  Collins 

William  Richardson 

Henry  Sheaphard 
Fryday   night  the  6''  June 

Henry  Cockin 

John  Osborne 

Richard  Lee 

Richard  Longstrap 


Ed:  Bennett 


Fryday  night 


Satterday  night 


Sunday  night 


Monday  night 


Tuesday   night 
John  Howes 


462 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


Satterday  night  the  7*^  June 

John  Lambert  Wedaesda;  nigfat 

Augustine  Mulliner 

Tho:  Judkin 

Wm:  Trader 
Sunday  the  S""  June 

Thor  Lantoa 

Joseph  EmertOD 

Symon  Rands 

Sam:  Dawes 
Monday  night  9**  June 

M'  Billing 

Tho:  Newman 

Abram  Baxter 

Jo;  Purser 
Tuesday  night  the  10^  June 

Henry  Ashby 

Goodman  Rock 

Edward  Cox 

Robt:  Man 


Thursday  night 


Friday  night 

Sunday  night  to  begin 


Sflterdsy  night 


Wednesday  night  1 1*^  June 

Goodman  Walker 

Sam:  Witsee 

Tho:  Smith 

Amos  Child 
Thunday  night  13"*  June 

Edward  Aleyly 

Robt:  Durham 

Goodman  Howes 

Jo:  Smith 
Fryday  night  ig""  June 

Walter  Longe 

Edward  Webb 

John  Knight 

John  Hancocke 

Satterday  night  the  14*^  Juntt 

Jo:  Smith 

Tho:  Wright 

Robt:  Whetston 

Wm:  Middleton 
Sunday  night  the  15*^  June 

Mathew  West 

Tho:  Radford 

Richard  Cley 

Robert  Brownsgiave 


Jo:  Hill 


Sunday  night 


Monday  night 


\\ 


1 


■»« 


MORTUAMIO'ON    BOROUGH    fteCORI>S. 


important  bottle  of  NorthamptoQ,  1459.     Henry  VII  pisied 
the  tmrn  od  several  occasknu. 

On  July  21st,  1540,  Henry  VKI.  visited  Northatrpton  on 
way  to  York,  sleeping  at  ibe  bouse  of  Mr.  Humphry,  wilbout 
south  gale. 

Queen    Elizabeth's    first   xisit   to    Nortliamptoo    wis   in 
sammer    ^     t^4,    when    great  preparations  were    made   for 
receplioa.      The  town  was  re-painled,   the  house*  deconted 
hangings  of  coloured    stufFs,   and    the    main   streets  strciraJ 
sand.      The  corporation  presented  her  with  an  embroidered 
containing  a  hundred  marks,  and  allowed  the    nuyor  £30  ' 
his  extra  expenditure.     The  following  entries  relaiiire  to  tha 
arc  copied  from  the  orders  of  assembly : — 

Al  tbc  Assembly  lidd  on  AuguM  <|lli,   1564.  it  vn*  otdorcd  ifcat  lW»  lAMMh 
levied  among  the  Comcni  nnd  inkabilaunto  of  lK«   townv   ul   Nonkuiftn  tolt  || 
presented  unto  Ibe  Quenes  Ma"*  one  hundrMl  mU'CM  Mcrlinsv.  ^M 

At  the  same  time,  it  was  furllicr  ordered—  ^ 

Itut  Mr.  Rlchwd  WlMrley  ikcn  beiitpB  mu«c  shgld  lwr«  •llowl  li«to  iiMi 
his  Cliatge  at  the  Queae*  Ma.'*"  Imiii^  in  NonbjmjMan  xx". 

Item  that  every  nwlor  fat  the  tirat  bting  wlicii  any  Kinfe  or  Qmm  *•! 
fdrl«n»  ta  comv  lo  Noith«niptan  *li>ll  ttcieafter  bav«  towaries  Ml  Oat^1l» 
sonMi  <rf  xx"  lo  be  paydv  oiflc  of  Ibe  Ireanrv  ol  Ibe  Cbarobts  of  Nonbt»  ^w 
and  bcsidci  bh  sundinje  sirpent. 

In  the  summer  of  1575  the  queen  aj^ain  passed  through  Noflb- 
ampton,  and  must  have  been  received  with  some  §talr,  '"^  ^^^ 
mayor  prescntt^l  licr  with  a  memorial  tn  reference  to  tbc 
of  the  assembly's  orders  rclatim:  to  mnlt  kilos  within  tbc  irafii ' 
This  was  the  occasion  wbcu  Elizabeth  made  a  formal  prnfEm 
through  the  counties  of  Northampton.  Warwick,  SiaAord.  am 
Worcester,   and  thence  to  Woodstock. 

tn  the  spring  of  1585  the  ijucen  planned  ■  prasrcM^^M 
intending  to  pass  through  the  boroughs  of  Nortfaani|Xoa,  SS^ 
and  Xoltinghani.  Communicatiuns  of  mticfa  detail  were  odcM 
into  with  the  respective  mayors  o(  these  Iowa*,  ihc  pttni 
ruyaliy  fipecially  insLmng  ou  ibc  qu&lity  of  the  ale  to  be  pr 
This  prugress  was,  ho«.'e^'er,  sufacKqucally  abandoned,  but 
ol  it  was  accomplished,  tbc  queen  visiting  lloldcnby 
B»»«»d  new  tvsidence  o*  her  fa^«rite,  Sir  Christopbc 
This  vi«t  w«s  apfxiTTJitly  paid  10  rttbcr  AuJ^l^t  or  _ 
iKil  Uw  imlortimately  tnicmcntAry  entry  io  the  order    book. 


ROVAl.    VISITS    ANIl    NATIONAL    EVENTS. 


ifig 


merely  states    that    "John    Hcnscman   beinge   maior  of   the 
of    Nonlilun    have   (owardcs    his    Charges    at    the  Quene 
projircsscs  through  the  townc  to  Holmcbie  the  low-aiicc  scanc 
^  XX*  owie    .     .     .     ." 

^ta      In     June,     1603,    James    I.    was    followed    from     Scotland    to 
^KAndon   by   Qu<:r.D    Aaoc    and   the   young    Prince    Henry.     Tlicy 
Hbtrhcd  a  ntj^ht  on  the  way  at  the  great  house  of  Holdcnby,  and  it 
~  was   owing    to  the   queen's   appreciation  of   Its   magnificent    pro- 
portioiiA  and  beautiful  silv  that  the    king  wis  induced  a  few  years 
altcrwards   to  purcliase  the  estate  and  turn    Holdenby  House  into 
jl     m  royal  palace.    On  leaving  lloldenby  the  queen  and  prince  passed 
B||liroii]>h  NorthamiAcn  on  their  way  to  London,  and  were   received 
^nn  5t;ttc  by  the  corporation.      In    February,  1608.    the    king  com- 
pleted his  purchase  of  Holdenby,  and   paid  his  first   visit  there  of 
K&bout  a  fortnight  in  the  following  August. 

^f      On  Wednesday,  August  15th,  James  and  his  queen  made  their 

V'first    state   entry    into    Northampton.      The    following    highly    in- 

leresttnK  extracts  from  tlie  orders  of  assembly  relative  to  the  event 

re  DOW  for  the  6rst  time  published : — 
Or6vn  af^oeit  opon  and  condndtd  al  iin  a^sembJie  of  E(iwar4  K«nt«rTNiii  mafor 
«{  (be  lu«ii«  of  Norths mpion  lh»  Ald«rtnrn  kts  brethren  Ulir  miyots  or  the  same 
towne  the  B.iylift  all  those  itiat  luvc  bcec  B«;riifi  and  the  fnwnic  eight  BiirEciscs 
«f  iliB  Ciiimnun  Couawtl  ot  the  Mine  Iowm  a»«Rit>l«d  in  Ue  GuildhaU  <A  tbc  ume 
towoe  tbe  Sixth  dijc  o(  August  In  die  ycam  of  (he  Ralgn«  of  our  lovenignc 
nm  by  tlw  pan  oE  God  Kxtig  of  England  &c  tbc  Sixth  and  of  SroiLiiid  tbe  Twne 
lmI  foMrileth,  (or  aad  about  lh«  tnming  stnA  r.ntMUinmetit  ot  ibe  nowe  kind's 
moti  excellent  Ma"*  and  hii  gtaiioiis  Qiienc  Anne  inCa  tbe  libcitir  of  ihii  tonne, 
wbuc  Intend  tbdr  progtave  tit  stat«  Royall  upon  tli«  Firtecnth  dxye  of  Ibi*  instant 
moMli  ttt  Augan,  throttgb  tliis  hti  hi^hnes  CorporUion  of  Noitbampcon,  u 
£aUowr*h,  ifioS. 

Inipdmb  fl  y»  ordcted  that  thers  slulbe  fourthwitli  provided    at    tb«  cmta  and 

cbargv*  of  ttie  CorfMration  out  of  tbe   towna  cKamber,  twoe    fair«    pieces  of  plate 

illded.  In  pmeirt  to  wit    ooe  to  the    Kiri]^    hW'  anil    the  other   to  the  Queue, 

lilrli  Midc  pieces  of  ptue  thall  both  of  them  logclhci  nith  caset  for  them  amount 

value  neatf  ih«  tum«  ot  SHle  pouado. 

Iiem    wiuare   bis    Mil"*  Inteiukth  to   rome   into   this  Corporation   in  pragrcsse 

ipoti  tlH  FiftreiMh    of  thb  instiDt  upon  vhlch  dnyc  belnj;  a  talre  dajrc  rommonltc 

illnd   the  fint  Ir-ttite  ilayo  in  Hirv«t,  hit  M>"*   intcoJeth    to   <ome   into  the  Cor- 

tion  from  the  Snnh  Gate,  throughout  the  Shccpmirkel,  It  jt  oftloicd  for  hii 

'^  more  evaet  ptaaagB  tbttv,  lh<il  fot   that  (aire    daye   onclte,  the  Sbcepntaiket 

U14  remared  into  Aliington  ilro.-ite,  niut  nhiill  tbme  be  kept  tor  that  fatre  enali*, 

,nd  no«  lonser. 


to- 


4?o 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


Item  yt /•ordered  that  every  boofcboldcr  from  ihc  Noftl){:«t«  tW  i 
from  ihcnce  of  tbe  9he«pm3fk(>t  hy  tbi?  hjnde  gair  over  Ihn  Cbwkfr  or 
place  an^  from  Uic  Checker  agnimt  the  Wooilhill  direalie  bj  the  hell  don 
to  the  Sotith  bridge,  shall  caiite  th*{r  houo  to  be  pointed  or  culMrad  inifc 
called  whiif  and  biMkc,  upon  paine  of  «terie  hcMneboUer  makiaf  driidM  u 
forfeit  xx'  and  iihall  likewise  prorldtt  aande  iffr  every  one  oT  tbin  dsm  la  qiri 
nbronde  Ihe  striates  npoa  like  pstacL 

Item  jt  )ri  ordered  that  the  Northeatc,  SoathrKe,  MaHcet  Craap,  a^  botkOa 
tcnme  HaU»  nbalbe  lorthwitb  cokxtrcd  or  eacte  inl«   coloon,  at  the  U»t»  cL«^ 

Vt  i«  ordervd  that  tbe  Majrot  and  Ablcfin«n  b!«  bntfaren  (hall  tydd  U  titk 
scait«(  gowtia  with  ihcir  bcwl  atlyre.  and  with  their  homi  fnrnlthed  witbUitlMii 
dothea,  to  meet  tbo  Kin;  end  Quene  at  ihe  verie  beginning  of  the  Ufacnia 

Yt  J*  abo  ordered  thai  «U  those  thai  have  bent  Bayllfis  of  (hla  l«<rM  (ad  0* 
foftjr  eigM  Bure«wc8  ihall  come  and  appeare  deccailie  and  rdbkIic  atlyred  intter 
black  suites  aoil  fiuic  gewaes  b«fofe  M'  Maior  atx)  hU  bi«thi«n  in  iWGnUdbOil 
the  aanic  towDc.  by  eq;ht  of  tbc  cItK-k  in  the  »(o«ctiaoM!  til  tbe  Fifmnlli  id  tUi 
inatani,  then  and  there  to  doe  and  be  otdcrrd  u  bj  (bcm  ahalbc  prMcrSiel,  ifaa 
paine  of  evaie  person  making  ddaultc  to  Torfate  fjve  powndoa. 

On  the  occasion  oF  this  first  state  visit  of  jamrs  to  Northiop- 
lon,  tbe  corporation  presented  to   him   a   petition   rcUlive  to 
tolls  exacted  by  the  city  of  London  on    the   goods   of   the  St 
ampton  hosiers,  contrary  to  their  charier  rights.     To  this  pet 
no   reply    was  returned,   and  after  waiting   till   the  last 
October,   the   a<;sembly   instructed   one  of  their  cbambcrlun  tp_ 
proceed  to  London  to  endeavour  to  obtain  an  answer. 

James,  with  his  court,  also  sojourned  at  Hddrnhy.in  the 
1610,  1612,  1614,  >6r6,  and  t6i8,  generally  in  the  month  of  Ai 
He  also  appears  to  have  paid  several  briefer  visits.  On  each  of 
these  occasions  James  would  be  altnost  bound  to  pass  thnx^h 
Northampton,  and  would,  no  doubt,  be  always  received  witb 
degree  of  royal  acclaim,  but  so  far  as  we  can  judge  ftwn  tbc  1 
records,  he  was  only  specially  entertained  by  tbc  corponit 
1612  and  ]6i8.  The  only  reference  in  the  orders  of  .1 
the  first  of  these  two  visits  is  in  a  tesolutiofi  of  Oclol' 
The  assembly  then  directed  that  the  money  which  the  Ute 
had  disbursed  "  in  and  about  the  cntrrtainment  of  (he  Icii 
excellent  majcstie  at  his  passing  ihorouKh  this  Corporalion^ 
time  of  M»  Humfreys  Mayoraltic  shalbc  repaid  by  the 
laines."  In  1618  the  Ihcn  large  sum  of  tbirty-scvcn  poundu 
spent  in  connection  with  the  royal  entry  from  Hntdcnby;  bul 
con  glean  no  particulars  as  to  the  detAiIs. 


ROVAL  VISITS  AND  NATIONAL  EVENTS. 


471 


larlcs  I.  and  his  queen  (rcquenlly  residi^d  at  Holdenby,  and 
lUst  have  been  well  known  by  si)>lil  to  the  Northampton  burgesses. 
{ueen  ,\Iary  (for  she  was  never  c.itled  Queen  Henrietta,  or  Hcn- 
hrietta.  Maria  in  coDtetnporary  documents)  paid  an  unexpected  nnd 
jinfonnal  vicit  lo  Northampton  from  Holdenby  ia  the  summer  of 
1 16*7.  The  queen  was  wailed  on  by  the  mayor,  and  stayed  some 
[two  or  thr«c  hours  in  the  town. 

The  only  occasion  on  which  we  have  found  any  record  of  the 
(civic  reception  of  Charles  I,  and  his  queen  was  on  Julj'aoth,  1634, 
[when  the  assembly  made  the  following  order : — 

WlMnu  the  kJDgs  moil  cxclcot  Ma'**  that  nowe  ia  w<*  hb  gratiou*  Qucenc  doe 
!1ii1c«m1  lo  nuke  this  CorporaUttn  in  th<!ir  progftSM  ot  <mj  Irom  Holmebee,  It  it 
:axread  •uxl  onleceJ  that  tWo  ilulble  [ouilhwlih  pfOrlJcd  and  tKMEht  attbe  cliamber 
I  Ch*is«  l*M  f»in  f*»r*t  «f  plnte  of  the  value  of  Thf ecMora  PowndM  om  of  Ibo  umc 

to  hm  praMOied  tn  ihc  Kl»^*«  Mn'**  and  the  otber  lo  llie  Queenet  grace  at  tbair  eoanioij; 

In  {itcgTMO*  ihorougti  (his  Cetpontion  oikI  all  tli«  cbarfe  o(  ^4lkvn  and  feet  ami 

other  octadoM  for  llie  mMlin^  anil  itlanding  the  k'tngit  and  queen*  iborough  tke 

Ubenici  slulbc  defrayed  out  of  the  Townc  Chamber. 

When  Charles  was  brought  to  Holdenby  in  February,  1647,  by 
arrangement  with  the  Scotch  army,  he  came  by  way  of  Market 
llarlioroutrh.  but  on  his  removal  thence  in  the  fotlowinfj  June  by 
Cornet  Joyce,  he  passed  in  his  coach  for  the  last  time  through 
Northampton  on  his  melancholy  journey  to  London. 

So  far  as  we  have  been  able  to  ascertain,  Northampton  was  not 
visited  by  cither  Charles  II,  or  fames  11. 

WUIiAm  111.  made  an  evening  prepress  through  Northampton 
I  in  the  winter  of  t6Sg,  "great  illuminations  being  made."  On 
October  25th,  1695,  the  king  made  another  visit  at  eight  o'clock  in 
the  evening,  when  the  streets  from  the  south  gate  to  the  noith 
wtjre  "very  much  iolightened."  According  to  the  chamberlain's 
account*.  Northampton  was  visited  for  a  third  time  by  William  III. 
on  October  Jist,  1700,  when  the  aldermen  drank  eighteen  bottles 
of  chrct  in  hb  honour,  at  a  cost  of  £i  99.  6d. 

In  1804,  and  ag;jin  in  1805,  the  Prince  of  Wales  (afterwards 
George  IV  }  pa.sscd  through  the  town,  when  the  bells  were  rung  in 
his  honour. 

On  November  12th.  1844,  the  Queen,  accompanied  by  Prince 
Allwrt,  passed  through  the  town  on  her  way  to  the  christening  of 
the  d;iughier  of  the  Marquis  of  Exeter  at  Burghlry  House.  The 
town  was  most  lavishly  decorated,  and  the  royal  carriages  stopped 
fur  a  short  time  at  the  foot  of  the  Drapery,  to  receive  an  address 


472 


NOkTIIAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


from  the  inhabitants.  Ilic  Queen  returned  through  the  lown  m 
the  15th,  when  she  was  a^io  met  by  the  authorities,  and  cscortad 
through  the  borough. 

A  costly  volume  was  produced  in  honour  of  this  vbit  of  llw 
Queen  to  Northamptonshire,  which  is  now  of  some  rarity.  Tit 
book,  however,  is  much  disfigured  by  what  can  only  be  icginlod 
as  either  a  stupid  hoax  or  a  fraudulent  imposition.  At  the  end 
of  the  volume  is  an  imaginary  picture  in  colours,  of  Nortbimptcn 
in  the  time  of  Elizabeth,  which  purports  to  be  a  facsimile  frooi  to 
old  manuscript.  This  is  accompanied  by  letterpress,  descripin  of 
Queen  Klizabcth's  entry  into  Northampton  in  obsolete  spellir^  ind 
is  supposed  to  be  taken  from  the  town  records.  These  impoviurts 
have  not  even  the  merit  of  cleverness,  for  though  they  may  tab 
in  the  unwary,  th(?y  could  not  for  a  moment  deceive  aa/ 
aotiquarj'  or  hbtorical  indent. 

The  Armada. 

ft    is   proposed,    in    the    remainder    of    (his    section,  to 
together,  in  chronological  order,  a  considerable  number  of  extr 
and   statements   from   the   town  records   and  accounts,  relative 
national,  rather  than  local  affairs. 

It  is  interesting  to  Rnd  that  Northampton  determined  to  hold^ 
pageant  in  honour  of  the  defeat  of   the    Spanisih    Armada   in  Ij4| 
The  following  arc  the  two  accounts  of  this  entertainment,  given  \rf 
local  chroniclers : — 

"A  warlike  Fight  prepared  by  the  Townsmen  in  honour  o( 
victory  over  tlie  Spanish  Armada  was  well  performed,  and  all  the 
Towns  far  and  near  came  to  see  it." 

"This  year  a  warlike  ft^at  was  exhibited  to  the  market  plur> 
by  the  townsmen ;  the  hall  over  the  cocduit  (in  which  the  cos- 
panie-s  of  tradesmen  used  to  meet)  was  metamorphosed  into  1 
Castle,  and  surnamcd  the  Groyne,  on  the  top  of  which  a  tower  was 
made.  In  the  front  of  the  hall,  towards  the  marketplace,  a  rou 
was  made,  with  a  fence  like  to  the  town  wall,  fitted  up  with 
Edward  Hensman  was  captain  of  the  Groyne,  and  he  with 
band  kept  the  castle,  while  Thomas  Judkin  and  Thomas  Sanl 
commanding  the  besieging  party  (called  the  English)  ;  after  variot^ 
marches,  countermarch cs,  manceuvres  and  skirmishes,  wrrc,  on  the 
first  two  days  of  attack,  repulsed,  though  without  any  very  seric 
loss ;  but  On  the  third  day  the  attack  succeeded,  and  the  asial 
party  having  beaten  tlieir  opponents  10   their   stronghold,  tei 


474  NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH     RECORDS. 

ordered  that   £^  should   be  paid  out   of  the   chamber,   and 
raiscti  by  assessment. 

Another  assessment  entry  of  the  time  of  James  I.  refers  to  the 
national  dowry  provided  for  the  Prina-ss  Elizabeth  on  her  marriage 
with  Frederick,  Count  Palatine  of  the  Rhine.  In  1612  an  assess- 
ment for  ;^2o  was  ordered  on  all  owners  of  lands  within  Nortli- 
ampton  "  being  soe  much  as  this  corporation  hathe  compoundrd 
to  payc  for  and  towardes  an  aide  in  the  marriage  of  the  Roj-at 
Ladie  the  Ladie  Elizabeth  the  kingcs  Ma""  daughter."  This 
marriage  subsequently  involved  the  country  in  war.  In  1619 
James'  son-in-law  claimed  the  crawn  of  Bohemia  in  the  protcstaot, 
interest,  and  was  rcsnlutcly  oppoM^d  by  the  imperialists,  w: 
the  result  tliat  he  was  shortly  driven  out  of  the  Palatinate, 
voluntary  subscription  and  a  loan  at  a  high  rate  of  inlcrrsl  were 
raised  (or  an  English  expedition  on  Frederick's  behalf.  Patliament 
approached  the  subject  in  a  half>hearted  way  so  far  as  grants  were 
concerned.  These  brief  statements  arc  nccessarj-  in  order  to 
understand  the  action  of  Northampton  with  regard  to  this  custom. 

In  1623  Mr.  Leonard  WoUaston  collected  the  gratuity  given  out 
of  the  corporation  towards  the  recovery  of  the  Palatinate,  but  as 
he  was  not  pressed  or  urged  to  pay  the  same,  the  assembly  agreeil 
on  March  lllh,  1633-4,  that  he  should  pay  every  person's  money 
back  again,  and  that  for  this  action  he  should  be  held  harmless. 

In  July,  1637,  Northampton  was  visited  by  Lord  Holland.  ChiH 
Justice  in  Eyre  of  the  Forests,  whereupon  the  corporation  presented 
him  with  a  silver-gilt  cup  of  the  value  of  £if,  or  £if>. 

The  stirring  events  of  the  great  civil  war  in  which  N'orthamptoo 
played  no  small  part,  have  been  recorded,  so  far  as  the  town  was 
concerned,  in  the  previous  section.  Here,  however,  it  may  be 
mentioned  that  in  December,  1654,  General  Cromwell  was  "chosen 
Lord  Protector  of  England,  Scotland,  and  Ireland,  and  soe  pn»- 
claymcd  llirougliout  England  here  (Northampton),  by  the  Maior 
and  the  rest  of  bis  officers."     [Peircc's  MS.] 

Oath  of  Allegiance. 

On  September  19th,  1662,  before  Sir  Justinian  Isham.  Sir 
William  Dudley,  Sir  Samuel  Danvers.  and  ten  other  roy^I  com- 
missioners, the  corporation  of  Northampton  took  the  oatiij  li 
allegiance  and  supremacy,  according  to  the  act  of  13  Charles  \U 


4 


ROYAL  VISITS  AND   NATIONAL  EVENTS. 


475 


nibscHbed    their   oamcs    in   the  great   order   boolc.    after  the 
njlolltjiviiii;  declaration; — 

^B     "  1  doc  declare  that  I  hold  that  there  laycs  noc  obligation  upon 

Hbc  or  any  olIilt  person,  from  ibc  oath  fomonly  called  the  Solrmnc 

^League  and  Covenant ;  And    that   the  same  was  in  it  selfe  an  un- 

UwfuU  Oath  and  imposed  upon  the  subjects  of  this  I^calmc  against 

the  kwTvmc  Lawcs  and  Liberties  of  this  klngdomc." 

It  was   signe<l    by  John    Brafield    and  Thomas  Thomlon,  who 

both  rlaimed  to  be  tnayor,  by  William  Langham  and  John  VV'oolston, 

lilifB;  by  Wiltlatn   Rushton,   steward;   by  John   Fowler,    town 

Jerk;  by  Francis  Pickner  and    Lawrence    Maydwell,  bailiffs  then 

lected ;  by  Thomas  Maydwell,  town  attorney;  an<i  by  Henry  Lee, 

irho  claimed  to  be  both  tOTn  clerk  and  mace  bearer ;  and  by  thirty 

Tour  Other  members  of    the   corporation.      ;\lter  their  names  come 

^^be  signatures  of  sixty  other  burfi^csscs,  of   the  four  eerjeants-at- 

^bace,  o(  the  sexton  and  town  crier,  and  of  three  churchwardens. 

^M     A  lar^c  number  of  the  members  of  the  corporation  who  apparently 

Htbeerfully  subscribed   to  this  declaration,  had  equally  readily  sub* 

Bicrihed  to  the  solemn  league  and  covenant  a  few  years  earlier  I 

^P     tn  January,  1673-3,  the  assembly  ordered  "That  those  Farmers 

'^jf  this  towoe  that  have  lately  drawne  the  kings  carriages  and  are 

not   fiatisfyed  for  the  same  be  payd  by  the  several!    Constables  of 

lowne  out  of  their  levyes,  or  as    M'  Mayor   and  the  Justices  shall 

this  order."     This  refers  to  wagons  impressed  for  the  conveyance  of 

fmmunition  and  other  stores.     Several  like  entries  occur  in    later 
ears. 


Duke  of  Monmouth. 


In  the  end  of  January,  t6&2,  Uie   Duke  of   Monmouth   made  a 

progress  from  London  to  the  north,  with  a  view  of  keeping  himself 

evidence,  and   adding    to    the    number  nf    his  supporters.     He 

ravelled  with  a  hundred   attendants  on    horseback,   and  wherever 

the  Whig  interest  prevailed,  he  was  received  with   fervid  acclaim. 

The  Duke  does  not  appear  to  ha%-c  stopped  a  night  at  Northamp- 

l^on,    but    merely   to    have  passed    through    the    town,    baiting  his 

^■roop  on  the  way.    The   only  reference   to  this  visit    in  the  town 

Kwwkg    is,   that   the   chamberlain  paid    £2   9s.    "  for  the  duke  of 

Hfontnouth's  wyne  at    the    George."     From  this  entry  we  assume 

that   some  of   the    Northampton    corporation    look    wine    with  the 

popular  duke. 


476 


NORTHAMPTON    OOROUGll    RECORDS. 


James  II.  and  Removal  of  Town  OrpiciALS. 

On  February  6th,    1685,   Charles   II.   died,  »nd  the  MI1 
extracts  from  the  mayor's  accounts  show  the  espcn#e»  incumd  hy 
the  Northampton  corporation  in  proclaiming  Ins  successor:— 

i  '  ' 

P*  th«  Drumera  att  Proclajminf  the  King        ...         .„  ...         „  0   S  a 

P*  lo  lh«i  Townc  WiyUfs  ...         ^      «   5   k 

V*  Wro.  Richardt  for  wjrne  alt  procUymlng*  ttu  Ktntr  ...  -    4   = 

P*  M'  PJeknejf  more  for  wyne ...         ...         d  n  « 

Later  on  in  the  same  year  occur  tJie  following  entries  ia  tb 
mayor's  accounts,  which  probably  refer  to  M>me  of  the  atRDcnmi 
arrests  in  counection  with  Monmouth's  rebellion: — 

P*  th«  chsTp  of  tho  Prisoners  wnt  in  ■  Wsgoa  lo  Oxford ...  o  a  » 

P*  Packwood  for  hoops  to  liltli  l)ie  W%gon...         ...         _ ..      e  J  • 

Two  years  later,  1687,  the  accounts  afford  proof  of  the  f rajusi 
movement  of  troops  that  characterised  the    brief    but    tnausmaw, 
reign  of  James  II.; — 


P*  .M'  Bc3t«ck  iot  wyne  for  tlie  Officera  ttut  wen  in  Toim  ... 

P*  for  bringing  bai-k  a  Wagoa  from  the  Seldicn  fo«)ng  to  Itxrbonow.. 
P*  M'  Qostock  for  wync  fw  jw  OIKren  Out  tncU  in  ibe  Towne 

In  July,   1683,  the  corporation  liad  petitioned  for  a  ncircl 
which  was  granted   tn    the   following  September.     It  corrc 
in  most  respects  to  its  prcdcccs-sors,  save  that   it  concluded 
most   signi6cant  clause,  by    which    the   kinj;    reserved 
amove  the  Mayor,  Aldermen.  Recorder,  or  other  officer  of  tbcf 
or  any  of    ihcm   by   letters    under  our    signet."     When   Jama 
found  himself  in  dtfBcultics  with  his  subjects,  he  did  not  hesit 
to  freely  use  such  |)owers  as  these,  for   the   removal    of   vn 
officials  whom  he  distrusted. 

On  March  ist.  1687.8.  tl»c  orders  of  the  IcinR  ;ind  council 
February  34th,  in  accordance  with  the  revised  charier,  were  ri-> 
in    Northampton,  whereby    the   mayor,   the    eleticd   justice, 
other  alderment  tlie  town  attorney,  ei|;ht  bailiffs,  juid  >• 
gciucs  were  removed    from  Oieir   places   in   the  asscmb.   .     _ 
order  of  the  following  day,  delivered  at  Nortbamptoo  od   the; 
dale,  the  kin^r  and  council  fillwl  up  (hcK  \*acancirs  with  other  nan 

The  town  mo-st  meekly  submiltt^d.     .\n  a-iscmWy  was  rallcil 
Uie  very  day  the  tetters  patent  were  received.   Tbc  hook  of 


KOVAl.  VISITS  ANb  NATIONAL  KVENTS. 


477 


gives  Uic  royal  decrees  in  cxlcnso.  and  tben  states  that  "  the 
aforesaid  Orders  of  King  and  Coiinsill  were  Obeyed."  The  only 
olhtT  Iju^incss  done  by  Uic  assembly  was  tlie  conferring  of  the 
[recdoni  of  the  town  od  the  Duke  of  Berwick  {the  iltegitimatc  son 
of  James  II.).  "and  alsoc  on  the  Noblemen  Com'  Officers  and 
Gents  that  came  to  this  lowne  with  him," 

On  April  (jth,  i6S8,  ihe  as^mbly  was  summoned  to  receive  the 
orders  of  the  king  and  council  dated  March  25th,  whtTcby  three 
more  aldermen,  two  bailiffs,  and  eleven  burgesses  were  displaced 
from  ihcir  ofSces  in  the  corporation,  accompanied  by  a  second 
royal  order  dated  March  26lh,  nominating  others  to  fill  tbeir 
places.  The  assembly  listened  to  the  orders  read,  agreed  that 
ihey  should  be  enrolled  in  their  book  of  orders,  and  obeyed 

A  third  set  of  royal  orders,  removing  an  alderman  and  six 
baililfs,  and  substituting  others,  was  received  in  May.  The  fourth 
eseniise  of  tlus  much  fttr;uned  royal  prerogative  was  made  under 
tUUe  of  Scpteiiibcr  and  and  3rd,  when  the  two  acting  bailiffs  were 
removed,  and  others  substituted  id  their  places.  These  warrants 
were  received  in  Northampton  on  September  irst,  and  were  on 
the  same  day  humbly  read,  enrolled,  and  obeyed  by  a  duly  sum- 
moned a^Miembty. 

This  arbitrary  exercise  of  the  king:'s  power,  particularly  with 
regard  to  the  mayors,  must  have  thron'n  the  government  of  most 
of  ovr  towns  into  much  confusion.  It  is  somewhat  extraordinary 
that  the  peace  of  an  important  and  excitable  town  such  as  Norlh- 
amplon  viah  so  completely  preserved  through  these  rapid  changes. 
John  Willoughhy,  the  country  gentleman  made  mayor  of  the  town 
by  the  king  in  F*!bruary,  i6R7>8,  presided  over  an  assembly  held 
at  tite  guildhall,  on  September  35th,  1688.  Henry  Flexney  was 
then  unanimously  chosen  nMyor^elect.  But  the  court  would  have 
noac  of  this  popular  election,  and  James  Il.'s  la.<it  act,  so  far  as 
Nortltamptoii  was  concerned,  was  to  remove  Flcxncy  from  the 
mayoralty,  and  by  royal  proclamation  (not  a  warrant  of  the  council) 
to  put  Thomas  Attcrbury  in  his  plate.  This  proclamation  was 
received  on  November  8th  (three  days  after  the  landing  of  William 
of  Orange  at  Tor  Bay),  and  on  the  same  day  an  assembly  was 
summoned,  presided  over  by  Mr.  Atlerburj-.  Probably  the  news  of 
the  imminent  overthrow  of  the  court  party  had  reached  North- 
ampton, for  Mr.  Attcrbury,  after  presiding  as  mayor  on  this  one 
occa:iion,  had  the  courage  to  decline  to  act  any  longer.    Where- 


4fio 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  KEC0RD5. 


Queen  Mary  died  of  small  pox  on  December  2Stti,  !&«. 
assembly,  on  January  24lh.   ih^,  ordered  tbal  the  coniBion  wJ 
affixed  to  an  address  to  the   king  to   condole  with  bu  majol; 
the  death  of  the  Queen,  "and  M»  Mayor  desir«d  to  cirry  itaa? 
easy  charge  as  lie   can." 

The  mayor's  accounts  give   the   deuils    ot   this  cxpcndilart  m. 
follows :—  ■ 

Spoilt  alt  John  Xi*y\jt  about  (he  Addres  to  the  Ki^       ...  , 

P*  John  Earle  gocing  to  tW  E.  of  Northtofi  «l>Mt  the  AMreaoe    ...  o  t  » 

Given  M'  Recorder   fur    his   AdviM   »iti  asciitAbca  Id   iW  d*tvmf  iW 
Adra  to  the  Kin;  ,,,         ...  ,. 

Spent  upod  ibit  occasion  in  CoAcb  hire  uii  durgo  up  tad  dotm... 

The  Brst  cntiy  in  the  mayor's  accounts,  1697^,  is  the  nm 
5s.   given    to    the    king's    messenger    when   he    arrived    with 
"  Proclamations  of  Peace."     This  refers  to  the  important 
Ryswick.     The  chamberlain's  accounts  show  that  in  honour  of  I 
treaty,    Northampton   spent   ten   shillings   on   sixty   faggnts 
bonfire;  £3  los.  on  claret  for  the  corporation;  and  three 
on  the  town  drummers. 

In  Ihc  same  year  the  corporation  rejoiced   at   the  king's 
from  the  continent,  at  the  cost  of   nine    shillings    worth   of 
whilst  in  1638  the  king's  birthday  was  celebrated  in  a  like  U 
at  the  expense  of  £2  5«-r  a  modest  5s.  6d.  being  paid  at  tbci 
time  "  for  Ale  for  the  Officers." 

The  fallowing  extracts  from  the  mayor's  accounts 
William's  reign  show  how  frequent  were  the  movement 
soldiers  through  Northampton  :— 

i6gi    P*  M'  lohn  Bajlej  (or  bit  ioaraqr  to  London  *nA  for  hcne  Ura 

about  r«ino««inc  *^  Soi^kn  o«t  ot  tovne  ...         .„         _       j  »"#! 
Grca  to  ISO  tncn  of  tbi  L'  Cutis   Ua    Repmuii    to   pan  tiro* 

the  lowna    ..  ..  .,.  n  i;    » 

P*  (<jr  (onditctiiig  icrcnl  Soldjen  to  DmUfj...  ,i    (    ■ 

t«9i    Spent  npon  OAeen  at  Pnuock  and  Rich"  Taylvn 

Spent  niKMi  Oficen  at  Geotfc  aod  M'  Bnliahli 

F**  M'  Lucu  (or  Uak^t  and  a  Tarr  barrill   .. 

Spent  at  Hall  irhea  Ctmenlt  Jnnkle  came  (a  Ta««« 

Gave  (g  soiwaU  trauwled  toUicn  u  cnae  txota  Irdaad  . 

P*  Matt  Honoor  Ua  BUI  for   Ui   bottn   f«c   ««icvs  aod  *olditri 

St  Mwenll  ^tnes ...  .  ,  __  ^         ^      ^  nj 

1^     ?*  HarmM)  Hutl  for  cwrTtnc  Mt  WansDla  to  Impnsw  W^tr»m 

•I  Old  FonM  and  W«lr«« ^^ 

P*  litm  mon  lor  £o«Ia)[  l«  ;  Tcwms  lor  WafRWi 


ROVAL  VISITS  AND  NATIONAL  EVENTS.  481 


H«ll  m««c  for  3  jum«)rs  to  impiiM«a  Wa^g^ons 010 

16^     Sprat  M  Rose  ami  Cmva  apon  Ihe  Offictn    I.*  OxIatAt   Rcgimt      026 

Spent  at  Gror^c    upon    Col.    Rowc's  OfBcerB    to   ptine    them  to 

miucl)  the  Dcxt  moriung ...         ...         ...      o    3    O 

Spent  Dpon  Col.  Belbsiet  Officen  ,,        ...         016 

Spent  npoo  Ofliccra  of  L*  Arom's  Regiment o    t    6 

f  Ihc  Kiniit  aicncDKcr  und  (or  n  Prt>cl.  about  Col.   Pitrker...  o     I     o 

f  for  Ike  QM  ot  the  little  hou«e  upon  the   hill  M'  Kimboldx  In 

■  Guard  hniise  for  Ihc  foot ...         100 

P*  for  straw  for  tl>«  Guard  bouM  and  Caniagv  for  £.  of  Deabys 

footo 00$ 

iCjgB    SpcM  wlwn  the  Arcompt  a!  1 195"  traa  tMled  as  due  to  Ibe  Towne 

Innehuvden  (totii  (he  SoMten ...       o  ti    O 

P'  lot  Cwria^cs  for  the  foot  soldicra      o  1$    O 

Given  to  Soldiers  and  Trawllen        ...         ...         3     1? 

170D    P'  fur  wjrne  (or  the  Oflket*  (or  Ibe  Princes*  Anne  RexIflKnt  066 

And  for  brinijioj;  lb*  C.'nyagoa  ...         ...                     ,,.           ...  07* 

P*  to  Treat  the  hoive  OfRemn  comeing  from  the  Camp*             ...  070 

P*  to  Treat  tbe  foot  Offi«ra          O  14    9 

Sp#nl  upooATre.il  fur  all  theoflK««lhe  AldormoD  being  prment  3    o    d 

P*  to  Cristophct  Thompion  and  M"  DMIej  for  charges  for  thdr 
CatnTBges  of  tnc  King'»  AmmanilioQ  and  fuiggat^ca  to 
Hatborow  ...         ..,         ...         ...         ...         .,,       059 

P*  for  4  bottla*  of  ClarMt  to  troat  the  Com.  Ofii«cr«  att  Towna  Hall      040 

A  bonfire  in  the  market  place  was  the  invariable  Northampton 

custom  on  the  evening  of  (juniwwder  Day.     The  fire  was  usually 

under  the  charge  of  the  two  b^radlcs  or  bdtmen.     Occasionally  all 

three  bcllinen  (i.e.,  ihc  town  cricr  and  tbe  two  bcadlcsj  were  paid 

ft  shilling  apiece  for  Attending  at  the  fire,  as  was  the  oise  in  1698. 

In  1703.  6s.  8d    was  paid    (or  "  Wood  and  Kids  att    the    Bonlirt;," 

u    well    as    another    shilling    for    a    tar    barrel.      In    addition    to 

other    public     drinking    at     the    cost    of    the     cxirporation,     the 

assembly    generally    indulged    in    limited     potations    and    tobacco 

within   the    guildhall.     Pipes  and  candles  arc  a  usual    November 

Sth    entry    under     many    years.      Thus    in    1696    seven    shillings 

ami     two    pence    was  "  spent    in    MaII  "    that    day,    in    addition 

to    ei^il    bottles     of    claret    at    twelve     shillings-      In    1698    the 

ball   was  content   with  7s.  6d.  worth  of  ale,  and   the   like  amount 

«ras    spent    in    bread    and    cheese    and    ale    for    all    the    officers. 

In    1707   forty   faggots    were   bought  for  the  bonfire  at  ajd.  each, 

llie    wail>    were    paid  4s.,  the  two  bradlc^  a  shilling  each,  whilst 

tos.  Gd.  was  assigned    "for  ale  for  all   the  ofBccrs."     In    170S  a 

variety  «~as  introduced  into  the  monotony  of  the  annual  gunpowder 

GG 


HOVAL  VISITS  AND  NATIOMAt  EVENTS. 


483 


the  bonAre  cost  7s.  sd.  The  drumoicrs,  who  by  this  time  had 
>me  a  regular  part  of  the  town's  civic  state,  received  a  shilling 
Imccc:  they  were  three  in  number.  The  four  waits,  or  town 
^Bfitcians  were  paid  on  a  like  scale.  The  tobacco^  pipes,  and  candles, 
brought  that  evening  into  the  town  hsU  coat  6s.  yd. ;  the  bread 
and  cheese  and  ale  consumed  in  the  same  place,  9s.  lod. ;  whilst 
amount  expended  on  wine  came  to  £3  4s.  ^d- 

[At  the  tfaanlci^iving  day  in  1706  for  the  victory  at  liamillics, 

wai  the  far   larger   expenditure  of    jfio  l8s.  4d. ;    tlie  chief 

ise    was   £,j  19s.  6d.  for  seven  doicn  of   wine,  the  remainder 

ig  made  up  of  faggots  for  the  bonfire,  ale.  waits,  trumpet  and 

ims,  and  bellmen. 

kTbe  union  of  England  and   Scotland  into  the  one  kingdom  of 
rat  Britain,  in    1707,  made   a  considerable  stir   throughout  the 
Im.    On   April   zjlh,  the  court   of   aldermen    agreed  "that   M"" 
..Recorder  be  desired  lo  draw  up  an  addreS'S  to  the  Qucene  about 

RlUaion."  It  was  at  the  same  time  ordered  that  on  the  approacb- 
g  May  day,  being  the  day  appointed  for  thanksgiving  for  llic 
union,  tlie  whole  liuuse  should  attend  churcli  in  their  gowns;  also 
t3»at  there  were  to  be  bonfires  in  the  evening,  treating  with  wine, 

I  The  chamberlain's  accounts  show  that  £6  38.  3d.  was  spent 
the  occasion. 
The  chamberlain's  accounts  for  the  year  1707-A  also  include 
payment  oS  j^  6s.  to  "  M*  Recorder  for  2  addresses  to  the 
een."  We  conclude  thai  one  of  these  addresses  had  reference 
the  day  of  huniilhlinn  on  J.inuary  ij^th,  1707-8,  in  consequence 
oar  continuous  disaitterB  upon  and  withdrawal  from  Spanish 
>oil,  and  the  wreck  of  the  Rritish  squadron  on  the  Scilly  Isles, 
e  other  address  would  be  doubtless  ont;  of  congratulation  on  the 
:tory  of  Oudcnarde. 

The  terrible  and  continuous  dynastic  wars  of  Anne's  reign  kept 
;land  constantly  on  the  strain  of  alternate  fasting  and  feasting, 
intcd  days  of  humiliation  lieing  almost  regularly  followed  by 
s  ol  thanksgiving,  or  vice  versa,  according  to  whether  England 
icd  the  victory  or  suffered  defeat.  In  August,  1708,  England  was 
to  rejoice  for  the  victory  of  Oudcnardc.  The  L-liambcr- 
's  accounts  show  that  the  following  were  Northampton's  official 
contributions  to  the  rejoicings.  The  corporation  being  determined 
to  outdo  previous  efforts,  hired  two  trumpeters  at  a  heavy  charge. 

GG  2 


ROYAL  VIStTS  AND  NATIONAL  RVENTS. 


485 


14,000.    The    chamberlain's   accotints  have    the   following   entries 
relative  to  this  victory  ;— 

Til*  gmt  newt  of  bming  the  French.  £.  5.  d. 

Wail  placer*  al«  and  money  5'  and  Drums  5'  <fi o  10  ti 

Th«  S«xloru(  Ale       ^        o  t  O 

Joha  Mooces  bill 1  t6  a 

November  22nd,  1709,  was  also  a  thanksgiving  relebration  when 
;£4  i5£.  8<l.  was  spent  on  wine,  music,  and  a  blaxe  in  the  market 
place. 

(In  November  7th,  1710,  h  thanksgiving  was  proclaimed  for  "a 
signal  and  glorious  victory  in  Spain,"  when  Pliilip  oi  Spain  was 
defeated  by  our  troops  in  alliance  with  tlie  Archduke  Charles  at 
the  battle  of  Tara^ona.  The  Northampton  celebrations  took  the 
form  of  spending  its.  id.  on  forty-four  faggots,  cider,  and  ale; 
£2  14s.  on  wine  and  broken  glasses  ;  4s.  6d.  on  ale  for  offitcrs; 
los.  on  two  trumpeters;   los.  on  the  waits;  and  los.  on  drummers. 

The  peace  of  Utrecht  was  celebrated  in  the  summer  of  1713, 
when  the  Norlliampton  corporjition  spent  £^  lis,,  on  a  bonfire,  waits, 
drums,  trumpets,  and  a  hogshead  of  ale,  etc.  ;\t  an  assembly  held 
on  May  iSth,  171J,  it  was  ordered  and  agreed  by  the  whole  house 
"that  there  be  an  address  to  the  Queenc  under  the  Corporation 
Scale."  On  May  zgth  of  the  same  year,  £?>  2s.  6d.  was 
spent  on  town  festivities,  two  hogslicads  of  ale  being  given  to  the 
populace  at  a  cost  of  £^  5s.  We  are  unable  to  explain  why  this 
29th  of  May  should  have  been  so  specially  cammeEiiorated. 


The  Georges. 


^H  On  the  death  of  Queen  Anne,  the  corporation  spent  30s.  in 
hanging  the  pulpit  of  All  Saints,  and  their  official  seals  with  black, 
whilst  a  hogshead  of  ale  drunk  on  the  coronation  day  of  George  I, 
cost  £3   IjS. 

In  1718-ig,  the  mayor's  accounts  show  an  item  of  £t  2%., 
which  was  ''paid  Thomas  Hanson  for  maintaining  mutineers  and  a 
Guard  and  Guard  House."  Mr.  W.  King  was  paid  the  same  year 
7s.  for  "  5  Deserters  and  fur  Straw  and  wood." 

The  fair  of  Decemtier  8th,  1721,  wa.s  put  off  in  consequence  of 
a  public  fast  occurring  on  Lh;it  day,  and  a  guinea  was  paid  fot 
crying  the  same  in  neighbouring  market  towns. 

fn  1722-3  there  was  a  tlianksgiving  day,  for  the  constables, 
^ait  players,  and  serjeants-at-mace    were   paid  this  year  for  their 


486 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


attendance  on    November   5th,    thanksgiving   i3ay,  May    29U1,   and 
August  isL     There  does  not  appear  lo  have  been  any  other  pay 
ment,  and  there  was  no  bonfire. 

On  the  occasion  of  iht?  coronation  of  George  II.,  in  173S,  tba 
constables  and  Ihirdboroughs  received  7s.  6d.,  the  waits  and 
serjeantB  9s.,  and  the  drums,  bellmen,  and  hall  keeper,  8s.  gd. 

The  following  L-ntrics  are  reminders  of  the  litimng  days  of  1745, 
when  Prince  Charles  Edward  succeeded  in  getting  as  far  icouth  as 
Derby  with  his  little  army : — 

£■  >•  i- 
Paid  Chtigos  for  inllating  men  to  atm  Va   MaJMty  xl  llw  time  of  the 

Rebellion S    1    « 

P*  the  ConsLiblcs  and  Serjeants  for  their  oMistanu  tlxnin  ...         ...  O    j    O 

P*  W*  Atterbury  a  Bill  fat  Ribbons  for  Cockndes  for  Soldiers  ..  is    8' 

On  April  17th,  1746,  the  town  paid  25.  6d.  towards  a  bonfire  on 
the  Duke  of  Cumberland's  birthday,  and  on  .A.pnt  36th,  is.  towards 
the  same  purpose  "at  the  Defeat  of  the  Rebels." 

In  1766  the  corporation  drew  up  an  address  to  Geor^  III.  on 
his  accession.  There  was  no  expensive  coach  hire  to  Lordon  for 
the  purpose  of  presenting  it,  for  it  was  simply  sent  by  post. 

!n  1789,  the  town  drank  £5  8s.  worth  of  ale  in  honour  of  *'tbe' 
Kings  Recoverj'." 

The  town  hall  was  illuminated  in  June,  1794,  for  the  hard  vna 
victory  of  Earl  Howe  over  the  French  Fleet 

In  1797  Mr.  Thompson  w.is  paid  20s.  for  "  Candles  to  illuminale 
the  hall  on  account  of  AdiniraJ  Duncan's  Victory  "'  of!  Camperdown. 
In  connection  with  this  victory,  the  assembly,  on  October  Tlh. 
passed  the  following  resolution : — 

That  tlie  .■mm  of  twenty  Guinciu  be  aubscribcd  hy  Aa  Corporation  t«w>nlide 
Relief  of  tho  Widows  and  Chlldm  of  the  brave  sMnen  who  fell  in  dc&Mt  d 
ilicir  Country  in  (he  glorious  Engigtmcni  of  ihe  eleventh  Inttant  tinder  Adavi' 
DunCiin,  and  thit  M'  Ttiam.t*  Hill  da  pay  the  lame  out  of  the  nOMf  ■■  ^ 
hindi  at  the  hit  o(  Lloyds  CoRee  Houses  London,  aa  toon  u  coaveiiitat.' 

At  the  beginning  of  the  year  1798,  affairs  looked  very  smtmt 
for  England,  and  on  February  7th,  the  assembly  passed  tlw 
following  self-denying  ordinance  : — 

I'hat  this  Cotponlian  xubsctibe  ^^500  lo  the  aid  at  CovamMnt  At  the  ^e^ 
Crinb,  and  that  all  public  bcata  be  abolished  durlne  (he  conilnwuice  of  the 
War  the  better  to  innble  thin  Corporalion  to  itflord  the  >bo*«  ■ubMeiption'' 

On  August  ist,  1798,  Nelson  won  the  great  battle  of  tJie  y^' 
to  which  victory  these  two  entries  refer; — 


section  thirteen. 
Members    of    Parliament. 


PaYUENT   or    UEHBERS    IK     T^sS—ELSCTtON     OF     UKUBGRS    OF    THB     ASSEMBLY    BV 

rnx  ASSBUBLY— Returns  lemfi.  Philip  and  Mary— Elizabethan  elections- 
Return    OP     THE     RECOHDBR     AND      HIS     SON ELECTIONS     UNDER     THE     SXUARTS— A 

single  member  during  the  commonwealth— contested  elections  of  1661  — 
Contests  in  1663,  1670,  and  1678— Walpolb's  excise  bill — Wholesale 
creation  of  frbrhen,  i733— householders  and  not  freemen  declared  electors 
— The  notorious  election  of  1768 — Gigantic  expenditure— Extracts  prom 
Hall's  MS. — Corporation  vote  ;^iooo  for  thkir  candidate  in  1826 — Elections 
OF  1830  AND  1831. 


MKMBERS  OP   PARLIAMENT.  493 


w 


MEMBERS    OF     PARLI.\MENT. 


A  LIST  of  parliamcnlary  burgesses  for  the  borough  of  NorLh- 
ampton,  bcEinning  from  the  first  year  of  Hdvvard  1.,  has 
been  printed  in  several  publication!!  and  exists  in  tliree  or  four 
manuscript  accounts  of  the  town.  So  far  as  wc  have  been  able  to 
lest  the  accuracy  of  this  list,  by  documents  at  the  Public  Record 
Office,  it  is  quite  satisfactory  down  to  the  end  of  the  reign  of 
Edward  VI..  and  it  docs  not  seem  worth  while  to  burden  these 
tages  ntth  any  mere  repetition. 

It    is  well   known    that   the    representative   burgesses   of   the 

boroughs,  as  well  as  the  knights  of  the  shire,  were  usually  paid  for 

picir  service;!,  down   to  comparatively  modern   days,  but  it  is  not 

ir  the  most  part  remembered    that  their  payment  came  from  (to 

modern  parlance)  the  local  rates  and  not  from  the  imperial 

rhcquer. 

The  close    rolls  for   1328  contain    the  copy   of  a  writ,  dated 
October  31st,  addressed  to  tlie  mayor  and  haitilTs  of  Northampton, 
tor  the  payment  to  Adam  dc  Cotesbrokc  and  Geoffrey  de  llarleslon 
of  the  sum  of  £4  r6s.  for  expenses  in  attending  the  parliament  at 
cw  Sanim,  to  wit,  twenty-four  days  at  2s.  a  day. 
The  early  custom  ol  the  borough  had  u3idoubtcdIy  been  for  the 
commonalty  in  public  assembly  to    elect    their  parliamentary  bur- 
gesses.   The  choice  of  the  commonalty  not  infrequently  fell,  as  might 
uaturally    be    expected,    upon    those    who    were    serving    or  had 
recently  served    the  town   as    mayors  or   bailiffs,  as  is  proved  by 
the  frequent  similiirily   of    names   between   the  town   oRicials  and 
the  parliamentary  representatives.     It  docs  not  seem,  however,  that 
there  was  any  rule  to  this  elluci,  until  the  beginning  of  the   reign 
of  Henry  Vll.     From  alwut  that  ttrnc,  for   a   considerable    period, 
waa    the  custom   to  elect  solely  from   the    oligarchy  that  then 
Composed  the  corporation,  and  the  electors  were  merely  the  mem- 
bers of  the   corporation.      In  the   rclj^ns  of  both    Henry    VII.  and 
Menry  VIII.,  the  acting  bailiffs  were  appointed  the  parliament  men. 
L      An  asaembly  was  called  on  October  6th,  1554:— 


-ne 


■9dL  i«6o:— "TI^AbTnw 


of  theiF  Cooaancie  in  the  Okiu  c 

V  tbe    Mafor  Bkjrlifli  m1 

tMerierence  of  the  cof- 

■■b's   ffat^'y  s^s   doc    Ur.    Harr^,    the  ncorder  asd 
tied  ■>  Itto^  and  Ifal  Sir  joba   Norwicb  ns  Aost»  d 
e.     He  alio  taata  tkas    the  navor,   John   Twigden, 
ta   the  ^  ■^■■fj   of  tbe  stcyant-al-amis,  wh«re  be 
4q^  «Ucfc  CBtt  !■■  4DS.  a  4aj;  fer  imfcios  a  fabe 
piraBBBit-    Tbc  tmler  book  ncor^ 
;  of  Ibe  fnedea  of  the  tmm  oa  Sir  Jeha  Xf>rwicli, 

jrd,  t66a,  bf  the  gaterai  frooKol  of  an 
lo  neei.  "  Ai  wbkrh  tbn«  then  appriuvd 
vpoa  eal&ig  ibe  hoxne.  TW  Mayor.   Fovre  AMcmen.  S-mrirr^m 
Bayfifc  aad  thirty  sis  ctf  the  ilviij  Borgetfcs."  I 

Sir  Jaaes  laigtain  was  awacniwi  with  Sir  Jobn  Norwtcii  B 
tbe  reprcseBtacin  of  >i«n!nnp(oa  in  t66i.  This  was  th«  Pefuii»J| 
aiy  pariiuawrt,  wbaA  sat  Car  eighteen  ;«ars.  TIk  clcctioQ  o(  thifl^ 
year  b  the  brsc  of  wfajch  Okc  poll  b  oo  record.  tlK  cbotcc  being  M 
ItN^er  cooiBed  to  the  cnrpoaticB.  bvt  placed  in  tbe  haodi  ol  live 
Ceoeral  body  of  the  boiseates  or  hwoebeUen.  The  ttanben  paUed 
were.  Harv«T  416.  Langham  331,  Norwicb  asx  Tbe  ouyor,  bowwa, 
isade  a  bUsc  iodenture  of  rctwa,  and  oo  fnrcsti^ntiion  the  irpoK 
poO  was  upset,  and  '^*g****T  and   Norwicb  declared  duly 

In  1663,  aJtboai^  Ibcrc  was  no  cenrral  dcctioo,  tbe  N< 
seats   appear   to   have  beea    declared   vacant,    aod   Sir 
Cotnptoo  aad   Rkbard  Rainsford  were  retunted  unopposed 
Charles,  however,  died  before  be  had  Lxken  hU  icXL,  an-l  Sir  }uat* 
Langbain    was  chosen    in  bts   place.      Mr.    Rainsfurd    was  at 
speedily  i^ipoinled  one  of  tbe  baniBft  of  the  exd»equer,  and  At 
contest  tooJE  place  after  a  curioos  fashion,  of   whtcJi    Hall's 
giircs  the  following  account: — 

On  Mwrb  -f*  i66a-j.  M*  Htfar  (M*  Jokn  BnStU)  fM  fw  l.h  wriMDb  ud 
dtcfl)  order  ta  wwn  ■»  AMcmUr  for  Mocubjr  Mw cb  g^,  t»  tonX  M  9  m'SoA 
■leetioti  of  a  h^t^tm.  Vfhea  iIm  MwnUy  ww  mat,  W  Mlfor  MixmI  the 

U>  read  Ik*  pRCepIt  tlw*  did  M' TVmton  Slid  U' Collii 

wauU  pruercd  tu  EInliMi  if  \if  tl>«  twute  ittcy  *«>ld  L. 

Colli!  c:(«eii(i  Urm  out  of  ihe  H.^1  Wiedow,  and  Ibeyvtt&nM  rrwri 

them  M'  Thonttun  aad  M'  CMt  with  nunr  otlien  pnmd  out  <i  '^^ 


T^ 


I  ■: 


aer=    c    "lent:  aes    z  us  asai.  a 
r   -   "*""  —    c    otf  £3=.  JE  N:c3i 
Toea^    -e-ca    --.■^m«,:;::'TB*i     li>   Sir  j 

fiixift    c     '  -T— H  -ir»-  iss:  S^^mi  for  e 


\    1 


^"    ^  -i3v>=   rj-  nt  ir^\'=imiiij   trf  sm: 

t;^"i.  \;f  s!T=  — ■  IE  -diif  Tear 
^r^-^^'z.   TTc  .33Tiiinai2s  -w^rr  \La.jctr  Co 

-'  =-  ~^  i:=wr  ZiSt.,  ant  Lnra  Ha.Iif3J 
TiT  i  -mi.  ::;3t:  cat  ssje.  Cnl.  Jilantafi 
Tn>  .fir-;  ^rrsa:  rft-nr?  tt-  Tie  "WTiig 

"  inifc"  jKvi  fi;*^  hnr  su^i  jamjlt  vot< 
Tiart:  =«nat;  lumxTtcr^  lumnr&rr  Preemc 


MEMBERS  OP  f>ARLlAME:NT. 


501 


ml  9U1,  63  more  names  were  added  under  like  conditions,  yield- 
[ii^  a  toUl  of  396  false  freemen  made  solely  for  eleclion  purposes! 

The  triumph  of  Messrs.  Ci>mpton  and  Montague  was,  however, 

of  shurt  duration,  for  on  a  pelilion    being  presented  to  the  house, 

I  Montague  was  unseated,  and  Wilmur  declared  duly  returned  in  his 

place.      Freeman's  History  gives  the    following   as   |]ie  result  of 

this  election,  not  even  naming  the  making  of  the  bo^s  freemen  : — 

kCoropton  973,  Wilmcr  05,  Montague  S75.      We  can  only  suppose 

[ihese  are  the  figures  eventually  accepted  by  the  House  of  Commons 

(ler  imtuiry.     Wc   have  nothing  here  to  say  as  to  the  elections 

[of  1734.  1741,  1747,  t754,  and  1761. 

[q  1740  the  coqMration  took  legal  opinion  a&  to  the  parliamentary 
Mranchise  of  the  town.  It  was  then  stated,  as  Mr.  Murray's 
l-opinion,  that  the  right  of  election  was  confined  to  inhabitants 
[being  householders,  and  that  freemen  who  were  non-resident  were 
disqualified.  It  was  also  stated  that  the  receipt  ol  alms  was  a 
'tlis«|ualilication. 

Ai  the  celebrated  election  of  176S.  the  corporation  espoused  llic 

[cause  of  Sir  George  Osborne,  and   Sir   George    Rodney.     Shortly 

fore  the  event    they   coolly   obtained  counsel's  opinion  "  at  the 

[expense   of  the   town,"  as    an  eleclion  committee.     Mr.  Cald«!COtt 

the  deputy  recorder,  gave  it  as  his  opinion  th.it  the  distribution  of 

^moiiey  or  coalii  to  the    wives  of   persons    entitled  to   vote,  in  the 

imes  of  Lord  Northampton  and  Lord  Halifax,  amounted  to  bribery 

Fundcr  2  fjeorge  IL  c.  24;    tliat  lodgers  or  inmates  renting  a  room 

[could  not  vote ;    and   that    all    ihoK    who   were  upon  any   lUt  for 

[receiving  any  public  or  private  charity  were  disqualified. 

The  date  of  this  opinion  is  October  5th,   1767,  and  on   October 
(21st.  Mr.  Caldecott's  furtlicr    advice    was    sought    with   the  result 
that  the  following  interesting  opinion  was  elicited : — 

The  tut  dctcrmi nation.  16  Cbail«s  II.,  as  »  cxproil)'  decbrt^  on  the  joiirnab 
(be  Haiiw  of  Commani,  mt'  "  '1*^1  tb«  Inlubitart*  of  lh«  town  uf  Nonhamplon 
jiif  Itoiududilan  nod  not  (ccdTiiig  iilmi  are  llic  pt«ptr  clcclon."  Ii  seemi  to  tnc 
flLii  ffom  ^itudcring  thai  <lrt«rmliutlon,  and  tb.it  fre«men  had  uiualljr  voted  at 
fonnrt  elcvrttOM,  the  doaiM  wii  nude  in  17^  wtiethcr  the  vrord  prefer  ounht  to  be 
Icanitiitcd  rc»lj>rli««,  siid  to  tno-in  ihs  sams  m  oaljr  proper  c(«ctofr,  or  whotlwr  aa 
aril  bad  b«for«  voted,  Ihcjr  wera  nol  to  be  nonsiderod  equally  proper  eloclots. 
lowcwr,  ilut  dnubl  bring  nibmittcd  lo  the  house,  the  rifht  irai  not  afierwarda 
[imwted  on  la  lavcur  tA  (be  freemen,  and  the  r«Mliit!on  of  the  house  on  that  occaaion 
I  in*  caoMSlent  kIiIi  tlie  paclualon  of  the  inttnxn'*  riicbt  of  voting.  I  think  sucb 
procerdlngi  (R  the  Hvuw  of  CotnnKNia  in  1734,  an  cvidenn  lo  show  lli»t  the  aenae 


MEMQBRS    OF    PARLIAMENT. 


503 


various  witnesses  to  substantiate  or  invalidntc  his  claims  were 
fpequcnlty  heard  This  wa^  the  cause  of  the  long  continued  polls. 
Only   !iixtccn    votes  werr   recorded    oa    the    opening    day   of    tbe 

t Northampton  poll. 
The  mayor  and  the  two  bailiffs  sat  as  returning  officers,  with 
the  deputy  recorder  by  their  side  Three  barristers,  Messrs. 
Gralum,  HcU.  and  Pliillipps,  appeared  oa  counsel  for  Mr.  Howe, 
Jind  two,  Messrs.  Hopp«?r  .-ind  Murphy,  /or  Osborne  and  Rodney. 
The  opening  statement  of  the  minute  book  is  as  follows:— 
H  Ax  the  Mjyor  was  coming  to  the  PotI  Booth  M*  Pulctr  called  to  iit  to  take  Notice 
Kit  the  Uajut  was  paiadjo;  acttm  the  M.itkct  Hill  la  tlte  Booth  nilh  Culoura  of  Sit 
C*ft  Oibome  uti  Sit  Geo-.  Rodnejr  vrhlfh  (we  otKcrved)  mrc  Yellow  and  Blue  ^li^ 
with lh« folkitrini:  Iiuctiptioat  "  W^lltand  Ubttty."  "Tolcnlfofl and  Peace.""  Prknda 
to  tko  Poor  ukd  Trade"  AUo  Obicrvcd  thai  the  CoAvUtiks'  St*R>  ittendtDK  lbs 
Majta  tnre  OrnamcnUil  with  Oraitgv  Colovr  and  Blue  Rlbfconi  (briofc  the  tame 
Colcnin  worn  I?  the  (tienHs  and  Voten  of  Sir  Gea  OsborM  and  Sir  Gcoi  Rodn^) 
IJKi'  ttte  SliiT*  <J  tli«  ConstabiM  who  atteeded  M'  Howe*  aide  of  tti*  Bootk  wm  net 
onunteiiled  at  all.  The  Mnyor  and  fl.-iiUfTc  being  lentcd  in  Ibc  Booth  wtiih  M'  Mow 
DB  otic  side  itnd  Sit  Geo:  Osborne  and  Sir  C«oi  Rodnejr  on  the  other  Prociamatioa 
was  mado  and  the  Town  Cl«Hc  mad  the  ptc<cept. 

The  following  are  anwng  the  more  remarkable  incidents  of  the 
polling : — 

Daniel  Lynch,  weaver,  refused  to  take  the  oath  of  allegiance 
and  supremacy,  and  was  thereupon  rejected. 

John  Hickman,  confectioner,  claimed  lo  vote  for  a  honw;  in  Gold 
street,  of  %vhich  Mr.  Cox  was  the  landlord;  the  mayor  declined  to 
wrait  for  Cox's  evidence,  and  ordered  the  man  to  he  polled ;  he 
palled  Osbome  and  Rodney.  At  that  instant  Cox  entered,  and 
gave  evidence  the  voter  was  not  his  tenant.  "Some  clamour  and 
hissing  arising  on  M'  Howe's  side  of  the  tiooth  at  this  man  being 
polled,  M*  Murpliy  said  'If  you  are  for  a  riot,  I  will  riot  with  any 
ol  you.'  " 

James  Perceval,  gardener,  stated  in  the  booth  that  the  party  of 
Oftbomc  and  Rodney  had  offered  him  thirty  guineas  for  his  vote. 

On  William  Reynolds  being  polled,  whilst  Mr.  Graham  was 
contendm^  that  it  was  a  case  of  occasional  residence,  the  returning 
officer  refused  lo  hear  counsel  or  his  evidence  any  further,  and 
entered  the  vote ;  this  was  but  a  sample  of  several  like  cases. 

Edwin  Linnell,  shoemaker,  acknowledged  that  he  came  to  St. 
GQes'  street  only  three  weeks  before,  to  make  a  vote,  and  the 
mayor  allowed  it,  and  he  polled  Osborne  and  Rodney. 


yn 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


John  Fretlcr,  barber,  of  Market  hill,  who  appeared  ia  anBor'c 
dress,  said  that  be  had  taken  the  house  on  December  3ist,  that  he 
was  a  barttcr  and  perruque- maker,  atid  intended  (o  hang  out  Us 
pole  the  next  day. 

John  Wright,  gardener,  appeared  on  the  Rr&t  day  of  the  poD 
moch  in  liquor,  and  appealed  to  the  mayor  a^  the  guardian  of  thr 
Sectors,  sa>-inR  that  '•  fcucrs.  chains,  and  prisons  may  reunin  the 
body,  bot  cannot  restrain  the  mind."  He  declined  to  pott,  aod 
the  maror  said  if  he  did  not  poll  then  he  could  not  come  agua. 
On  a  subsequent  day,  however,  he  did  appear,  when  it  wa»  stated 
that  he  had  made  an  afRdarit  that  Althorp  bad  been  made  iau 
a  prison,  where  he  was  detained.  On  examination  be  stated  thju 
"  be  was  taken  in  a  post  chaise  to  Althorpe  and  lived  vety  wtO 
there,  that  be  wanted  to  come  home  and  was  coming  bone  it 
a  post  chaise  and  was  stopF>ed :  two  or  three  days  after  he 
brought  in  a  po<it  chaise  and  taken  to  M'  Revels,  and  was  told  W I 
mttst  rote  for  M'  Howe  and  Howe  only;  said  Lord  Spencef  cane 
to  hitn  and  told  him  he  must  vote  for  M"*  Howe,  said  he  thougia 
be  coold  not  vote  for  anybody  else,  said  he  walked  about  thepadi 
as  free  as  be  pleaded."    The  vote  was  rejected. 

Samoel  Dent  came  in  with  the  colours  of  Osborne  and  Rodncf. 
got  hb  vole  alk>wed  under  doubtful  cirniiiuUac«s,  and  then  pofW 
Ho*ce !  This  strat^y  was  repeated  by  another  TOicr,  Thooai 
Turner,  and  with  like  success- 
Richard  Trout  acknowledged  to  having  said  in  the  previoos  week 
that  "tbey  (Osborne  and  Rodney)  gave  htm  a  guinea  a  nztk  ua 
nmiker.  but  be  bad  no  mare  vote  than  a  hog "  -,  the  vote  wv 
allowed. 

The  arguments  adduced  during  the  fourteen  da>-s'  polling  ussiSf 
tamed  on  the  questions  of  joist  tenaocy,  colourable  occupation,  a>i 
receipt  of  charily  or  doles. 

The  foHowtng  is  a  list  of  the  occupations  of  the  ruti-ra  nhoie 
ctaloks  were  argued  in  the  polling  booths; — 


AfmAtxmj.  i 

GiukT,  s 

PlMMnr.  1 

B>k«r,  « 

Ccectr,  t 

nombn.  t 

Ba>tar.  9 

Hitnr.) 

Pnrtw.  J 

Bwitrt.Mikw.  1 

Ump-Awmt,  t 

FlM.kl7,  4 

■hffbiim.  * 

Higto,  1 

Prialv.a 

piirtyiifa.  1 

HnHn.4 

CBnlfeTfl  1 

lkM(v.4 

MonvtwMkir,  3 

Smwyn,4 

DMhM  tiWr,  5 

Haa^^BOtt.^ 

SriMm,  a 

MEMBERS    OP    PARLIAMENT. 


505 


Brickmaker,  a 
Broom- maker,  i 
Butcher,  14 
Carpeater,  19 
Clerk  (Revd.),  I 
Coachmaker,  4 
Coacbinan,  9 
Collar-maker,  I 
Confectioner,  i 
Cooper,  6 
Cotdwainer,  3 
Cork-cutter,  2 
Currier,  6 
Cutler,  3 
Drummer,  i 
Exciseman,  I 
Farmer,  2 
Farrier,  3 
Fellmonger,  6 
Fishmonger,  i 
Flaxdresser,  3 
Founder,  1 
Gardener,  S 


Huntsmao,  i 
Innholder,  5 
Joiner,  3 
Ubourer,  55 
Laceman,  i 
Leather-dresser,  I 
Lieutenant,  1 
Maltster,  3 
Mason,  1 1 
Mat-maker,  a 
Merchant,  2 
Millwright,  I 
Miller,  3 
Musician,  I 
Nailer,  3 
Oat  meal- man,  i 
Ostler,  I 
Painter,  3 
Papermaker,  2 
Parchment -maker,  1 
Pensioner,  I 
Permit  Writer,  I 
Pipemaker,  3 


Serjeant  of  Militia,  8 

Servants,  1 

Shepherd,  t 

Shoemaker,  93 

Shopkeeper,  5 

Slater,  I 

Smith,  5 

Stay  maker,  3 

Tailor,  36 

Tanner,  4 

Tapster  at  the  Peacock,  1 

Fireman,  I 

Turner,  3 

Usher,  4 

Waiter  at  the  Angel,  I 

Wax -maker,  a 

Weaver,  53 

Whitesmith,  3 

Wine-cooper,  I 

Wool-comber,  33 

Wool-sorter,  3 

Woo  I -stapler,  3 


The  graphic  account  of  this  memorable  election,  written  at 
the  time  by  Mr.  Joseph  Hall  in  his  MS.  book,  has  not  hitherto 
been  published : — 

In  this  year  there  was  the  most  violent  contested  Election  ever  known  in  tliis  or 
anj  other  Borough.  The  Lords  Northampton  and  Halifax  had  for  many  years  each 
sent  his  Man.  This  year  the  former  named  Sir  George  Rodney,  y*  latter  Sir  George 
Osborne,  who  were  opposed  by  Sir  James  Langham  at  first,  and  afterwards  by  the 
Hon^**  M''  Tho*  Howe.  Before  Sir  Jas.  Langham  declined,  one  night  the  two  Lords 
accompanied  by  their  friends  paraded  the  Town  with  torches  etc  as  was  frequent. 
They  met  some  of  Langham's  party  and  from  words  soon  came  to  blows,  and  then  y' 
two  Lords,  two  Sir  Georges,  with  y*  Mayor  and  a  large  party  issued  from  the  Red 
Lyon  armed  with  bludgeons  to  go  to  the  George  to  be  revenged  on  the  other  party, 
where  they  fought  the  people  there  assembled  and  broke  the  windows.  Their  fe.-irs  or 
resentment  were  so  high  that  they  sent  that  night  for  their  tenants  and  dependants. 
Accordingly  next  morning  some  hundreds  of  countrymen  armed  with  sticks  and 
bludgeons  entered  the  town  and  matters  were  becoming  very  serious,  but  by  the  very 
spirited  exertions  of  Lord  Spencer  (who  had  espoused  Sir  James  Langham's  cavise), 
they  were  sent  away  that  afternoon,  to  the  great  joy  of  the  inhabitants.  Very  soon 
after  this  Sir  Jas.,  either  thro'  cowardice,  fear,  or  had  been  tampered  with,  suddenly 
declined  when  there  was  an  apparent  majority  in  his  favour  on  the  Canvass,  Upon 
this  Li  Spencer  soon  after  recommended  M'  Howe,  and  the  contest  was  carried  on 
at  an  enormous  expense.     Each  voter  that  would  had  12,   14,  or  50  guineas,  sqtPC 


MEMBERS   OP    PARLIAMENT. 


507 


pro 
fori 


t^'^  March    1768    Pmrbiiiwni    the  within    Notice  at   the   Market  Cma,  at  Ihc 
ippcr  end  of  ihc  Dnptry.  che  Middle  of  tht  Drapccy,  at  llie   Ccurge  Cwner,  and 
Wood  FTill  ill  the  pre««*ce  o(  Tho*  Breton    E»q'  Mnyor,  and  Jolin    Newreomc, 
W-  Gihtofl  Bailiffs. 

J.  J. 

"J.  J."  are  the  initiAls  of  the  town  clerk,  who  at  that  time 
all  proclamations  on  the  part  of  the  mayor.    Other  endorse- 
lb  show  that  the  live  places  in  the  chequer  ward  (ur   making 
proclamation  were  the  customary  ones. 

The  endorsement  on  the  proclamation  of  September  3rd,  1780, 

ds  as  above,  but  in  addition  it  is  slated  that  "  the  Cryer,  Mace 

Bearer,  Serj**  and  peace  ofBccrs  attended,  but  not  in  any  of  their 

formalities,  save  the  Cryer  with    his   StafI  and  the  peace  officers 

with  tiicir  staffs." 

The  follnwing  extracts  as  to  subi^equent  parliamentary  elections 
frwn  Halt's  MS.  :— 


1774.  Thb  yeaf  wat  a  General  Elecltun  the  Candiil.it«  were  Hon:  Wtlbraham 
Tvllcivirhe  who  came  in  \(*  Move's  room  he  l>«ir>g  dc^il,  Sii'  Geo:  Robinson  wha  was 
•ppruviNl  bf  a  niiRiMODS  AuemUT^  but  one  M'  Drummond  who  lolicit^  and  expected 
I  NorlluniploB  InieicM  as  it  wa*  cali'd  did  not  ap)>«af ;  a*  itic  Dcbu  wcic  not  paid 
looie  other  Allr&ot*  put  on  the  Town  but  to  the  jutpriie  of  evrjrixtly  Sir  Ja* 
Laofham  wbo  had  left  his  fnendn  in  tti0  Lnrch  before  suddenly  appeared  as  a 
Ci^ndtdate  but  he  made  a  very  poor  fijure  on  the  poll  the  numbers  being  a»  follow) 

ITollemarche 7S6 
Ftobin»n  69a 

Laogbant  166 
tjSi.  At  an  election  tbitjrear  I.ord  Lucan  chosen  in  the  room  ol  Lord  Althorpe 
to  imign'A  hxt'iag  bean  choMn  Knight  of  tiM  shire  (or  Sum/. 
■TSj.  Tbia  ymu  than  was  s  General  Eloction  when  Lord  Cempton  and  Lord 
Lvcaa  were  nominated  CiodidatM  but  nch  waj  the  spirit  of  party  such  ihe 
Ingratitude  of  the  Town  of  Noithamplon  such  their  dislike  to  encoungR  itioir 
onlj  Friend  and  inch  their  hatred  to  Lord  Spencer  that  the/  nominated  one 
Tiulnian  (a  Ribband  wc-ivcr  who  h.id  latdj  had  some  iDoacjr  Ml  him)  to  oppose 
I.6rd  Lucin  hi*  Father  in  Law,  al  the  close  of  the  poll  the  numben  were  as 
r<iih>ws  the  Coitilioa  waa  ikb  which  had  some  effect,  to  which  Lord  Spencer  had 
coDMnlod.     (Sic.) 

Lord  Compton        ...     833 
Trotman  ,.         „,  Joo 

»Lord  Lucan 4j6 
N  Jl.— TtotRuin  was  obliged  10  leave  the  Town  and  Lord  Speaccf  withdraw  some 
of  hia  tarours  and  the  school  that  be  supported  waa  dropt. 

1790-    This  year  there  was  a  general  F.leetioD  M'  Trotman  the  late  Hernber  retired 
to*  lie  toon  fo^Qod  II  a  utuilion  nnSi  for  him.    The  Candidates  were  l.ord  Compton 
't*"™—''^it  wttirt  But  thought  tlicj-  woeM  have  been  etectdl  wHhont 


510 


NORTHAMPTON  BOROUGH  RECORDS. 


yo  Shoemakers. 

330  Robinson 
go  Keiriaon 


Complon    815  13  single  votes. 

KcrnsOn    666  19  ain^l*  vote*. 

Robiiuon 639  4<3  R*iJ[te  votes. 

Majoritf...     ...  37  for  KerriMn. 


Sir  George  Robiiuon  in  several  advwtiiments  baa  OMapIitin«<i  of  t)i«  C<v^«ntian 
about  the  Sl  Thomu*  moncj  tiai  he  shnll  appeal  to  the  Houx  of  Commons,  bil 
I  think  ]i«  will  diocovu  tlut  such  ui  appeal  trill  be  futlJ«  and  v«clc»  and  iM 
attempt  it. 

Jan.  39**  tSao.  King  George  jf  died  and  a  diiMlntion  of  Pariiamtai 
being  certain  Captain  M^iberljr  came  and  beyan  a  canvau  about  Feb.  X*  Lord 
Compton  itnd  Sir  Gcarze  Robinson  about  tite  8"^  of  that  nionth,  but  alt  wat  Mi, 
no  tibbanclt  fl.ijK  <it  litjuar  wati  ^vea  and  so  it  proceeded  utitill  a  Poll  cfMnnwnMd 
in  a  Iwgr;  botrth  so  conqtnictrd  that  while  the  Poll  went  on  on  one  side,  the  dis- 
piiterl  votes  were  inreitijj.-rtcrd  on  the  otbcf,  tbl»  method  pfomoled  the  poilinj  and 
brot  it  much  sooner  to  a  claie.  it  began  March  7"  am)  ended  an  tbe  il**,  bat  Sb 
G.  Robiniton  and  Captain  Mabcfle/  were  not  cJialr'd  untHl  the  13**,  the  ll*^  being 
Mnrkel^lay.  The  dttot  oF  Lord  Compton  has  baea  Mcribad  to  rartooi  eawe^ 
perhaps  a  duUKreement  about  the  expense*  of  Ibc  iMt  dectioa  laid  the  roundatlaBi 
it  h*a  also  been  esid  that  Lord  Compton  givinj^  onl^  Jb  to  his  poorer  'rotar*  Ui( 
election  when  it  wai;  ovrr.  while  l>ie  otbns  gave  £t  each,  and  Maberly  gar*  £s  to 
those  who  gave  ham  ainj[Ic  votes,  it  is  also  mii  tlut  tlicre  waa  bad  cnanageatfA 
on  the  part  «f  his  Lordship's  Commltiee  and  it  appean  that  there  waa  no  great 
hostilil}'  between  (he  two  succcsafull  candidates  perhaps  all  these  united  to  caue 
Ihii  uiicKpcr^tcd  cvunt.  Lord  Complon  s  friend*  shewn  ■iiicomfnoa  ratpeCI  ia 
attL-nding  hix  Lordihip  from  the  Town.  The  niimbrr  polled  was  greater  than  ever. 
The  Town  wiu  much  liiL-rvaiH^l  but  it  was  thought  man;-  were  admitted  to  poll 
that  ought  not.     At  the  final  elose  the  ouMbers  were  deeUuvd  to  be  for 

Sir  Geor^  Robinton       

Captain  Mabcrley  

Lord  Cuinpti>n  .,. 

Majority  for  Mabcilcy     ifii     for  Roblnxm  aSi 

Previous  to  the  general  eleciioo  of  1S2G,  tite  corporatioo  patty 
had  much  difficulty  in  iinding  a  candidate  to  come  forward  in  tbc 
Tory  intci^st,  on  account  ol  tlie  great  expense  of  iwrent  electioos- 
In  Marcli  a  dt-puUtion  Avaited  on  Sir  Robert  Gunning  askiitg  iiim 
to  stand,  but  he  declined.  On  May  26tb  an  extra ordinnr^'  and 
unprecedented  resolution  was  brought  before  the  assembly,  wbcre> 
by  they  pledged  themselves  to  find  ;f  1000  towards  the  expenses  of 
a  suitable  candidate.  A  .lecond  deputation  tiien  waited  upon  Sir 
Robert  Gunning,  with  the  result  Uiat  he  complied  with  Ihcir  - 
request.     The  poll  opened  on    June  I2tbj  and  closed  on   the  2oth. 


903 

ringta  votes  381 

783 

sini^c  votes     i|7 

6a3 

single  votes    75 

MEMUEKS    OF    PARUAMENT. 


509 


iRlo  Stpi  93*  Til*  HqDi  Edi  Douveric  died  anti  W*  llanbufy  Em|'  wu  cboaeii 
Member  nf  ['^fli:in>nii  Tor  this  Town  trithmit  any  opposhJcM  Oct:  18'*  i8jo  M' 
Bouverie  kfi  ibc  cbontctcr  of  a  mj  upiight  assiduous  aod  iDdcpradciU  Mjui. 

lSl3.  Mnjr  11*^  M'  rsFcival  wat  by  an  infutUled  usautn  shot  in  (he  lobby  of 
HouM  «f  CemmoM  1  mOM  foal  uii  Viiblnout  murder  wu  «c*ro«:ly  cvn 
tpcrpelniioil.  xnd  thr  tiitlicMi  irery  genenlly  exhibiivil  in^irks  of  ihe  uliuott  horror, 
llMil  in  c^mxqMciKc  Lord  Coinptoti  wda  uiuninuraaly  chuacii  one  of  uur  reprusD> 
In  bis  nwm. 

tSts.     P.irUimvnt  was  diuoN-tfd  Sep:  3^*  nod    our  Tuwe   election    look    pliKC 
[Ocii  S*'  whcii  Bail  Cuiiiptmi  and  W*  llanbury  Biq'  nvre  elected  without  oppocition. 

1814,  W  llnnbury  Esq'  Marcb  it**  1S15  Sent  a  te(l«f  to  the  town  uying 
||b«l  he  should  not  offer  hiinacU  itgAin  10  acrTe  lu  in  P.irtlamcnt  thia  wiu  occasioned 
I'fay  Ihe  ra««t)inien4  shown  by  stvctui  fur  hit  not  sopporttitg  the  petition  n^raitui  th« 
C«ni  BUI  lie  siAynl  nway  fium  the  hotiM  of  Common*  Lord  Compton  more  bold 
lifter  ti«riiig  ptvaenied  tbe  petition  Tinted  aguinst  the  prayer  thereoT,  what  will  tbe 
f  Town  ay  lo  him  f 

181&     A  diuoluilon  of  Parliament  dmwinj  near  Sir  Geurje  Robin«on  eommenoMl 

I*  anviu  but  M'  tlinbary't  Piiendi  did   ibe  luino  tor  him    but  be  had   pioinisied 

i&et  to  oppoie  Sir  George  and    be  (Ofjuesled  fail  friendi    to  de*iiil.     Soon  a(l«t   M' 

Mabcdey  wtio  hid  been  M>licit<d  appeiwvd  and  a  ibitrp  cooteit  etiMcd.     It  itm  in 

ikr  Month  of  Jati!   i8i8    (hat    Sir   George    began    an    open    cJnra»    M'   Hanbiiry's 

frlead»  (hen  be^a  oiw*  for  htm  and  nhh  every  appeatAncc   of  suco^ss  but   It   soon 

.  Kppcvtd  that  he  had  thoughtkwly  gave  bh  word  not  lo   oppoM    Sir  G;  and  by 

LleMer  dnirad  tKit  <m  further  fitcp*  should  be   lalten   in   hii  behalf  (I   Iben  declined 

l»ll  fuiurs  effortD  on  my  part)    but    a   strong    P'^ty    being  fotmcd,  they  invited   M' 

tly    who  TcDocnmended  his    tan    Cap'   Mabvrly    aad    foe  four   monllu  gnat 

iioni  and  treating  giving  money  by  ihft  wcolc  10  the  voter*  wu   cenlinoed  and 

pwsilitig  the  town  wtih  Musick  and    very  grml    numbcrt   of  flags   ontill  Juna  9^ 

wkcn  thing*  took  a  new  tarn  for  M'  Mibcrly  and  Son  with    Sir   Edward  Kerri»OB 

nme  and  on  convening  a  few  friends  informed   iliem    that   Ihe  Cap'  Maberly  was 

I  not  qeltc  ol  uge  .inj  thctvfure  wj!>  IrieligiMc  aod  recommended  Sit  l^dward  to  <)icif 

'  MillM.     M'  Mabcfly  oJbo  ttaled  Hut  tereral   arts  ol    bribery  had   been  commiiied. 

Sir  £dwaid  Kerti*on  was  appiored  and  begda  canvauing  and  the  contest  went  on 

rlth  C4ujl    »putt,    and  a    Poll   comniencnl  un   June  d"  in    Ullio  ol  lu  foi    each 

amhduie  but  pron«ded  very  slow  ewinf  to  many  frivilouii  and  long  caaininatiun« 

anil  ■pmchei  of  ihc  Coaoiil,     On  Ihe  fourth  cvenia^  a    great  riot  took   pl.ice   in 

Mccers  Row.      Sir  George's  party  instigated    by    one  John  HayM  begun  a  furious 

I  attack    un  tkdr  opponents   wltb    stoiws  and    pebbles    abtaineil    by  teanng  up  Ibe 

paving.  atKl    levcral  troic   injatcd,    but   the   Tovm  Clerk    read   the  Riot  Act  three 

tiii>0,  and  th«<  mob  dicprrwd.     A/tcrwards  Ihe  poll  wa«   pioiradcd  until  Ihe  ^h 

of  Jnne     Some  of  the  lotler  diy»  there  was  but  about  ao  voles  polled  in  the  day, 

|b«t  it  cloocd  on  ihc  above  d;iy,  und  Bllhough  a  gnat   many  vote*  were   rejected,  yet 

lUiv  nuenber  polled  was  some   hundreds   mote  than    trcre  polled  befoie  at  appcan 

Total  ntimber  polled  waa  i.aSy. 


-TIE    aBitiiv  -f     7^«* 


ftW"^- 


^     J3I 


3, 


—  -      1 


Tie    7=sait  jr   tine  jaL  ^HA  h 
z-:^    jgnnag  rK>  ■"■*  ^^  3^ 


section  fourteen. 
Topographical. 


Aasor's  mbadow—Abincton  strhct — Austin  lank — Balls  lane— Balhesholm 
LAMK — Bearward  strhht — Bbll  barn  lank— Bailiffs  hook — Black  friars  lanb 
— ^Beidgi  street— Butchers  bow— Cap  lane— The  CHsguER— College  street — 
Cow  lane— Cracks blle  lamb- Derngate — Thh  drapbrv — Druu  lanb— Dy- 
CHVHCH  STREET — Fennell  well— Fetter  lane- Fleskmongbb  street — The 
niARiES— The  glovbrv — Gobion  lane— The  gut— Gvselgot — Heruitagbs — 
Hogmakket  lane — The  horse  market— Horseshoe  lane— Ivie  lane — King 
srnEirr — Knight  street — Lady  lane — Marvells  mill — Marehold— Mercers 
sow — Mountsorrbl — Newland — North  street — Nuns  well — Quart  pot  lanb 
— Pike  lane— Rood-in-thb-wall— St.  Giles'  strebt-St.  George's  row— St, 
John's  lane— St.  Leonard's  street — St.  Martin's  street — St.  Mary's  street 
— Scaklbtwell  lane— Sheep  street — Silver  street  -  Smerekbrherbrowk — 
Swinewell  street — Three  pots  lake — The  tower — West  street— Wood 
stkbki^~Wood  hill — Woolmongbr  street. 


II 


i 


r  ' 
i 


>f 


■l.. 


TOPOGRAPHICAL.  515 


TOPOGRAPHICAL. 


/^CONSIDERABLE  care  has  been  taken  in  the  preparation  of  a 
^^  plan  of  old  Northampton,  based  upon  Speed's  small  plan  of 
1610,  to  illustrate  the  sites  of  the  old  buildings  of  importance,  both 
civil  and  ecclesiastical,  and  to  show  the  general  run  of  the  streets. 
The  old  town  walls  of  about  1300,  demolished  in  1660,  are  marked, 
as  well  as  the  probable  line  of  the  smaller  enclosure  of  the  Anglo- 
Norman  walls.  The  producing  this  plan  has  been  a  work  of  much 
labour,  and  has  been  faithfully  carried  out  by  Mr.  G.  Turland 
Goosey,  The  writer  of  this  volume  has  had  the  advice  and  kindly 
help  of  several  capable  townsmen  in  its  preparation,  but  he  alone 
is  responsible  for  the  form  it  assumes  and  for  the  identification  of 
sites  and  streets.  A  certain  amount  is  conjectural,  but  nothing  has 
been  put  down  without  carefully  weighing  all  the  citations  of  special 
places.  The  greatest  dependance  has  been  placed  upon  deeds  or 
court  decrees.  Many  of  the  latter,  of  the  sixteenth  and  seventeenth 
centuries,  are  among  the  two  great  volumes  of  the  orders  of  assembly, 
but  there  are  also  many  hundreds  of  far  earlier  Northampton  deeds 
at  the  British  Museum  and  at  the  Public  Record  Office. 

In  this  section  very  brief  explanations  are  offered  of  most  of 
the  places  marked  on  the  plan,  and  referred  to  throughout  this 
volume. 

Abbot's  Meadow  was  an  important  tract  of  pasturage  on  the 
further  side  of  the  river  to  the  west  of  the  town,  it  was  held  by 
the  corporation  on  a  long  lecise  in  the  sixteenth  century,  and  they 
vainly  attempted  to  obtain  permanent  possession  of  it  during  the 
Commonwealth.  Prior  to  the  dissolution  of  monasteries,  it  belonged 
to  the  Abbey  of  St.  James 

Abington  Street.  This  is  one  of  the  earliest  mentioned  streets 
of  the  town,  there  being  several  references  to  it  in  thirteenth 
century  deeds.  It  naturally  took  its  name  from  the  parish  just 
outside  the  liberties  of  Northampton  to  which  it  led.  Previous  to 
the  enlargement  of  the  town,  it  was,  of  course,  of  much  shorter 
length.     If   our  surmise  as   to    Derngate  being   the  original   east 

1  I  2 


TOPOGRAPHICAL. 


5"7 


ilaekfriars'  Lane  hounded  the  house   of  the  Dominicans    (see 
■iaries)  on  the  south,  proceeding  from  Ihc  Horsemarket  lowards 
castie.    It  occupied   much  the  same  position  as  the  present 
lUe  street. 

Friar^  Gale  is  mentioned  as  a  boundary  in  a  thirteenth  century 

somewhere  in  this  part  of  the  town,  and  was  possibly  the  last 

lane,  or  it  may  have  denoted  a  postern  gate  from  the  castle 

cincts  in  the  direction  of  the  Black  Kriary. 

SnJ^e    Street.      \\'e    liave    not    met    with    this    street    name 

rlier  than  the  fourteenth  century,  and  arc  inclined  to  think  that 

new  and   straightened   thoroughfare  of   that    name,  from   the 

fth  gate   to   the  centre  of  the   town,    was    not    made  until  the 

lent  of  tbe   town,    about   1300,  when   Bridge  street   look 

place  of  Kingswcll  street  as  a  highway  of  the  first  importance. 

Biilcher^   Jiaw  was  the  name  given  to  the  series  of  movable 

ii-Jbutchcfs'  stalls  or  sliambles  in    the    Market   square.     These  stalls, 

^Biicb  were  for  a  long  time  a  fruitful  source  of  contention  between  the 

^Htchcrs  and  corporatiun,  after  the  great  fire  nii[iiber<:d  etglily-four, 

^DBmely,  thirty-nine  called  Uie  west  row,  forty-lwo  in  ihe  east  row, 

and  three  at  tbe  top.    The  old  site  for  these  stalls  was  undoubtedly 

on  the  west  side   of    the    Chwjuer.  but    at   one   period    (though 

apparently  only  for  a  short    time;  they  were  immediately  in   front 

of  the  Peacock  on  the  opposite  side. 

II         Caf  Lane  or  Capf>e  Lane  was  the  name  of  a  lane  or  narrow 

street  in   the   north    ward,    which    ran  at    right   angles    to   Silver 

street,  and  formed  a  continuation    of    King    street    into  the  sheep 

market.     It  nearly  corresponded  to  the  present  Bradshaw  street. 

7'hc  Chequer.  When  the  town  was  extended  and  rcplanned  in 
1300,  the  new  Market  place  was  given  the  name  of  the  Chequer.  At 
all  events,  wc  have  not  met  with  this  word  in  conjunction  with 
Northampton  until  that  period.  It  gave  the  name  of  Chequer 
ward  to  the  fifth  municipal  division,  the  town  having  previously 
consisted  of  only  four  wards,  named  after  the  points  of  the 
compass.  A  good  deal  haa  been  written  that  ts  altogether  beside 
krilie  mark  with  regard  to  the  connection  of  this  term  with  the 
InBces  of  the  king's  exchequer,  which  were  transferred  here  for  a 
short  time  in  the  reign  of  John.  Others  have  supposed  that  the 
term  was  connected  with  Northampton's  privilege  of  having  a 
iL  It  would  require  a  short  essay  to  enter  into  even  the 
lefest  explanation  of  (he  terms  chequer  and  exchequer ;  suBlcc  it 


TOPOGRAPHICAL. 


5^9 


.    The  corporation  swans,  as  has  been   clscwhcrr    remarked, 

kept    an    the    stretch    of    water   by    MarvcH's   mill,  and  this 

aUo  in  another  direction. 

The  unsavoury  sounding  boundarj*  of  Cowmucke  Htlte,  is  men- 

ned  in  a   town    deed,  temp.    Edward    [1.,   and    !>eem!;,    from  the 

>ntexi,  to  have   marked   uhal  was   perhaps  an  open   space  liaU 

ay  up  the  Cow  lane. 

Craekbeiic  Lane  was  a  continuation  of  Fetter  lane  to  the  east 
St.  John's  flospitai.  At  an  carty  date  it  became  absorbed  in 
extension  of  tJic  hospital  precincts.  The  jury  at  the  inqui&itton 
1375  report  an  encroachment  on  their  lane  by  the  master.  It 
frequently  mentioned  in  early  dreds,  and  is  sometimes  spelt 
prackbowc  lane,  and  sometimes  Crackbowie,  but  Crackbclle  is  not 
\\y  tbc  most  likely  but  the  most  often  used  spelling. 

Dtrngatc.    Aa  has  been   already   explained,  up  to    1300,  this 

ims  to  have  been  merely  the  title  for  one  of  the  principal  town 

ites,  and  ia  supposed  to  have  derived  its   name   from  the  Celtic 

for  water.    The  street  now  known  as   Dcrngatc   used  to  be 

cnown  by  the  less  pleasant  sonnd  of  Swinewcll  street 

The  Drapery.    Id  tlie  time  of    Edward  II.,  the  buildingii   now 

lown  by  tliis  name  were  called  the  New  Drapery,  thus  affording 

of  the  many  cumulative  proofs  of  the  new  laying  out  of  the  town 

the  beginning   of  that  century.      Mercers"  Row    is    frequently 

3ken  of,  even  as  late  as  Sluarl  times,  as  the  Old   Drapery.      If 

drapers  had  been  estnblished  on  both  sides  of  this  thoroughfare, 

would  undoubtedly  have   been   termed    Draper  street ;    but  the 

)rapers  only  occupied  the  west  side.      The  opposite  side,  which 

of  shorter   length,  .md  broken  up    by  KC%'eraI   approaches  to 

the  Market  square,  was  called  the  Glovery. 

Drum  Lane.      The  short    narrow  street  from  Mercers'  row  to 

ie  south  east  corner  of  the  Market  square,  bore  this  name  in  the 

aixteeinth  century.      Merc   was  situated  an  old  public  Iiouac  called 

Khe  Drums,  from  which  it  probably  took  the  name. 
Oycliurch  Street  or  lane  bore  this  name  in  the  sixtccnlh  ceo. 
iry,  when  it  u  described  as  Dycburch  or  Dichers  lane.  Dychurch 
!cms  to  have  been  a  corruption  of  Dickers.  At  all  events  it  bore 
le  name  of  Dichers  lane  in  the  fifteenth  century.  Anotlier  alias 
^or  (lie  same  road  was  Groape  or  Grope  lane. 

Ftnntll  Well  is  a  boundary  mentioned  in  several  town  records 


%. 


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n-^z.    aEarJT  wri   ■nie  pi 
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~^T—ff  -wssL  zxaa.  at   oae 


TOPOGHAPHICAL. 


523 


time  of  fairly  common  application  to  passages   sucb  as  are  dow 
more  usually  &tyled  alley's. 

GyseJgot  was  the  name  of  a  way  under  the  wall  witlun  the 
AnRlo-Norman  town  on  the  east  side,  it  is  mentioned  in  the 
imiuiiiition  of  1374,  as  having  being  obstructed  by  the  priory*  of 
St.  Amlreiv.  G}*s<celgutte  is  also  named  as  a  boundary  road 
W  a  dfifil  of  1391,  and  several  times  in  the  nuxt  two  centuries. 
it  was  doubtless  ori^nally  nothing  more  than  a  narrow  passage,  and 
the  term  is  simply  a  reduplication  of  the  same  idea,  viz.,  a  narrow 
opening  Aown  which  probably  water  Howed  from  time  to  time. 
Gut,  as  has  been  said,  was  but  an  abbreviated  form  of  gutter; 
guzzel  is  a  dialect  name  for  a  narrow  ditch  or  drain,  still  in  use 
in  the  south  midlands. 

HtrmHagts.  Northampton  had  two  bridge  hermitages,  which 
were  respectively  placed  on  thrt  tD\*Ti  side  of  tlie  south  and  west 
l>ridges.  The  ancient  church  of  England  had  a  special  office  for 
setting  apart  of  men  vowed  for  life  to  the  half  secular  and 
f  religious  duties  of  bridge  hermits,  'lliey  acted  as  bridge 
niens,  and  invited  the  doles  of  wayfarers  to  the  repair  of  the 
and  their  approaches ;  they  lived  themselves  on  altns  aitd 
lendered  them  by  travellers;  and  they  offered  prayers  for 
heaven's  blessing,  on  those  journeying,  in  their  cell  chapels,  or  in 

ie  more  imposing  bridge  chapels,  of  which  there  was  one  on  the 
nher  side  of  the  south  bridge-  The  names  of  several  of  the 
orlhampton  bridge  hermits  can  be  obtained,  and  various  intcresl- 
g  particulars,  but  this  is  not  the  place  for  following  up  such 
subject. 

kUogmarket  Lane.  The  hogmarket  was  situated  to  the  west  of 
e  Marehold,  slightly  to  the  north.  The  road  to  it  from  the 
arehotd  was  called  cither  Hogmarket  lane  or  Hogmarket  street, 
d  frequently  occurs  in  old  town  documents. 

Tht  Horsemarket.  sometimes  called  Hor^emarkct  street,  seems 
to  hare  occupied  the  same  &Ue  since  the  days  when  Northampton 
t  became  a   market    town.     \Vc   have   first    met   with    it   as    a 
lumlary,  in  an  undated  deed  of   tJie    reign  of  Henry    til.,   about 


I 


Horseshoe  Imkc  was  the   continuation  fas  is  now  the  case)   of 

Horsemarlcet,  on  the  further  side  of  (iold  street.     IL  Is  described 

a  deed    temp.  Richard    II.,  as    "Horseshoe    Lane  or   Smtlhie^s' 


TOI'OGRAPHICAL. 


525 


.  1300,  though  then  styled  Mercers'  row,  it  was  not  infrequently 
termed  the  Old  Drapery. 

Mount  Sorrell  was  the  name  o\  certain  high  ground  or  mounds, 
just  «-itbin  the  walls,  to  the  north  of  the  Grey  Friars'  enclosure. 
The  6rst  mention  wc  have  found  of  it  is  in  ta;^,  but  it  occurs 
jcvcral  times  in  deeds  of  the  next  two  ccnturieti.  Mount  Sorrell, 
In  Leicestershire,  celebrated  for  its  red  granite,  doubtless  obtains 
its  name  from  the  colour  of  the  stone;  and  this  is  supposed  lo  be 
tlic  case  with  two  or  three  like  place  names  in  other  parts  of 
England.  Possibly  the  colour  of  (he  soil  at  one  time  in  this  place 
gave  the  Nortliampton  name.  The  term  a  sorrell  horse  is  still  in 
ase  to  de5cril>c  what  is  now  termed  a  chestnut. 

NewlanJ,  communicating  with  Ihe  Grey  Friars  from  the  north 
caat  corner  of  the  Market  square,  bore  that  name  at  least  as  early 
as  the  days  of  Edward  I.  Perhaps  it  was  first  built  upon  sooii 
after  the  establishment  of  the  Grey  Friars  in  an  open  part  of  the 
lowYi,  in  1245. 

North  Street  was  for  a  long  period  the  name  of  the  street 
from  the  north  gate  past  St.  Sepulchre's.  Sheep  street  or  the 
Shcepmarket  not  beginning  till  the  crown  of  the  hill  was  passed. 

Nuttd  Well,  Nuns'  Bridge,  and  Nuns'  Mill,  on  the  lower 
side  of  the  Cow  Meadow,  all  originally  pertained  to  the  priory  of 
Cluniac  nuns  at  Dclapr^.  on  the  further  side  of  the  river.  They 
are  of  frequent  mention  in  early  deeds. 

Pike  Lane,  which  still  preserves  its  name,  wits  a  narrow  lane 
or  passage  parallel  to  Quart  t*ot  lane,  communirating  between  St, 
Mary  street  and  West  street.  We  have  met  with  the  name  several 
limes  in  the  fourteenth  century.  Doubtless  it  was  so  called  from 
pikes  or  postii  at  the  entrances  to  keep  out  cattle  and  horses. 

Quart  Pol  Lane  has  of  recent  years  been  changed  into  the 
higher- sounding  title  of  Doddridge  street  ;  but  surely  it  is  a  pity 
lo  ch.ingc  the  titles  of  ancient  thoroughfares,  on  account  of  their 
supposed  vulgarity.  Quart  Pot  lane  ts  met  with  as  early  as  ihc 
days  of  Edward  I.  ;  it  took  its  name,  we  presume,  even  at  that 
early  date,  from  an  inn  of  like  nomenclature. 

St.  Giles'  Street  bore  that  name  before  the  town  was  enlarged, 
about  1300.  when  St.  Giles'  church  was  outside  the  walls.  At  lliat 
time  the  street  leading  in  the  direction  of  the  church  from  All 
Saints'  church  would  be  but  a  short  length. 


Vi-^raa*-   -»-ai    jtiiiazj-g    m  lae    wcs  sue    o 
'^Tj^^  -sue     -3    y  .'TTsrwf  ta-''    c^rs.    n    was 
srre^    3ir  ns  rrasnt    vc  zre  — "^■'^  to 
r""  "'7    3e  Cjck   Ian,    .e  ;be  Abczgrcc  s 

-pw   iaiw^  xs  Cjck  iaBC :   maer  tris  de 
me   JT!  mi   lariTna"   amg-    s.  ascaecrioa 
'Zjcl.  SOS  £^12^,     Pryj^iarT  z  was  :&»   i 

13    a^ranarct   3=sJ-'jus  sc   :rtctB^    to   t 


&.-r7r^  ar.ncieg  73e  sane  face.    TW  casx 
X  viuiC.  ana-aL  in*-  aaea  cxrisK  a    it 

SI  v^-~£3iz^-r  i  i^sicre  j  Tie  -wsol  rriae 


"•"xi  r-s^iri  ;:■  ti?  ^iaa  ac  tie   esid   ( 
'— »r»iT  iir  iaaoi.  m  :c9csraig  3o  tihc  ladca 


SECTION    FIFTEEN. 


Varia  et  Addenda. 


Thb  Mayor — Oaths  of  town  clerk,  bailiffs,  and  steward— Vbrn alls 
mguBST — Town  waters  is  1553 — Coumon  labour — Stourbbidce  fair — 
Uerckant  from  Constantinople — State  lotteries— The  south  bridge — 
Bedford  and  Market  Harborouck  road — Postmaster— Hobseracing— The 
Free  gramiiar  school— Navigation — Railways. 


KK 


■  •  * 


VARIA    ET    ADDENDA. 


535 


Coundytt  uppoii  Somons  gyven  uppon  peyne  of  every  one  makinge 

Idefalte  to  forieytt  xij*." 
1  Common  labour  for  clearuij;  the  town  diches  was  ordered  in 
nSii,  1617,  1633,  and  1637. 
f  In  i64t  the  re-paving  of  the  defective  places  in  the  highway  of 
KingsweU  lane  was  effected  l)y  a  common  labour  order,  and  the 
^ame  xtms  done  in  1643  for  the  amending  of  the  paving  of  Gold 
street  and  St.  Giles'  street. 


Stoubbridoe  Fair. 


I 

^B      Among  the  earlier  chainbcrtains'  accounts  occurs  the  invariable 
^Bnnual  eutTy   of    tea.   toll    to    Stourbridge    fair.      Sometimes  this 
^^laymcnt  is  simply  entered  as  a  charge  to  the    fair,  and   at  other 
times  as  paid  to  the  town  of  Cambridge. 

The  c>planation    of  this  apparently   curious  payment  to  Cam- 
^^ridjEe  is  to  be  found  in   a  sixteenth   century  indenture  preserved 
^^unong   the   corporation    records,   and    in    the  recollection  of  the 
national  character  of  this  great  fair. 

The  internal  trade  of  England  depended  mainly  on  its  great 
)nal  fairs.  The  largest  and  mo.st  important  of  all  these  fairs, 
^t  all  events  so  far  as  the  cast  and  south  of  England  were  con- 
:mcd.  was  that  of  Stourbridge,  near  Cambridge.  The  fair  lasted 
rom  September  i8th  to  October  9th.  Ic  was  held  in  the  open 
country,  and  temporary  booths  were  erected  evciy  year  covering 
an  area  of  half  a  square  mile.  It  was  under  the  jurisdiction  of  the 
^corporation  of  Cambridge,  and  the  mayor  of  that  town  or  his 
^HSeputy  held  a  perpetual  summary  court  of  pic  powder,  to  decide 
^cvcry  dispute  or  affray  tl\at  might  arise  on  the  fair  ground,  from 
^—whose  decisions  there  was  no  appeal.  Every  conceivable  commod- 
^Bty  which  could  be  made  or  sold  found  its  way  to  Stourbridge ; 
^Bilks.  velvets,  and  glass,  from  luly  and  Venice.  Unens  from  Liege 
^^nd  Ghent,  ironwork  from  Spain,  tar  from  Norway,  wines  from 
jGascony.  fur  and  amber  from  the  Hanse  lown.s,  porcelain  and 
lewds  from  the  further  East,  and  dried  and  salted  fish  from  the 
iltic.  Water  transit  to  the  port  of  Lynn,  and  on  the  rivers  Ouse 
id  Cam  brought  these  foreign  commodities  in  abundance. 
hlere,  too,  was  carried  tin  from  Cornwall,  lead  from  Derbyshire, 
iware  from  the  Sussex  forges,  and  leather  from  Northampton' 
lire.  Bat  of  all  home  produce,  the  most  celebrated  were  the 
ipacks,  which  were  \l\c  ctwy  of  other   nations.    Northampton 


S36 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECOtlDS 


and  Brackley  were  amongst   the  foreroost  in   their  contiibutioa 
wool,  and  the  freesnen  of  XortfaampLon  wlio  proceeded  lo  the  fa 
with  packboTtes  and  wains  laden  with  wool,  usually  retunwd  v^ 
stodcK  of  cured  fish  from  the    Baltic   trade.     The   town  of  Nott^ 
amptea  was  of  soScient  importance  to  five  itx  name  to  ODe  of  Hit 
tUrtHi  of  booths  $o  hastjij-  constnirted  for  this  tbree  weeks'  [lif. 

The  freemco  of  Northampton,  Fcjotctng  in  their  general  Idt^ 
cxemptkiD  as  frecrocn  of  royal  demesne,  aj»  well  as  of  d 
exemption,  paid  no  dues  of  any  kind  to  Cambridge  (as  k>rd£  oi 
(air)  on  the  wool,  or  on  the  leather  or  other  goods  ther  took 
them ;  but  coattnooos  and  fairly  reasonable  claims  were  made  aa 
them  by  Cambn<^e  for  some  duty  on  the  gooda  lbe>'  carried  booc 
On  this  latter  point  there  was  much  and  prolonged  dispxilc- 

An  indeotore  between  the  mayor  and    burgesses   of  Canbri4|c^ 
and  the  mayor  and  burgesses  of   Northampton,  of   the  year  151 
sets  forth   that    an   arbttratiao   before   two  of   the  kmg't  |i»lic 
conccnuttg  ibe  tdb  to  be  paid  by  the  freemen  of  Nortbamptoa  1 
the   town   of   Cambridge  for  "fysshe  and   barrclls  and  aU 
stnffe  and  mcrcfaaDdyses  by  them   partJcuUrly  booght  in 
bcyij^   Feyre  and  alt   other  manner  of   passages   and   caniigu* 
through  and  by  the  said  town  of  Cambridge  all  times  of  the; 
decided  that  the  mayor  of  Northampton  was  to  pay   tea  atoDil 
yearly  in  lieu  of  all  tolls  on  the  goods  of   freemen:   prmreded 
K  should  be  lawfol  lo  the  mayor  of   Cambridj^  to  take  of 
cart  k»ded  with  merchandise  belonging  to  any  freeman  of  Se 
amploa  going  out  of   the   said    fair  of    Stoorbridgtr   ttiT-r^-  - 
foreigners  belooging  to  Northamplon  wxte  tn  pay  all  th' 
fees  and  does. 

By  degrees  this   once  yrrat   fair  dwindled   io    bnpurtaoce, 
after    1733   the    town   of    Norrhamptoo  cea.'icd  to  pay   the  ai 
tribute  d  10$.    In  1749  the  mayor  and  corporation  rrcnwd  a' 
from  Mr.  Thoraas  Colleil,  the  treasurer  of  the  Cii;! 
tion,  to  art|uaint  them  that  the  sum  of  £$  was  due  lui  «ii 
of  the  Stoarbndgr  fair  composition. 

^\ltat  the  exact  result  was  of  thisapped.  or  whether  the  . 
were  paid  or  not,  we  cannot  5ay,  but  to  : 

accounts  for  1750  occurs  the   followii^   p-f^.L. . ..,  ,    , 

Gallons  of    Rum  and  BotUcs  ordered   lo  John   Wim   for 
payment  of  Stirbitch  Fair  Toll  £1  x^." 


vabia  et  addenda.  537 

Merchant  from  Constantinople. 

In  the  apprentices  and  freemens  enrolment  book  (1561-1727)  is 
the  following  1585  enrolment  of  a  certificate  from  the  English 
ambassador  at  Constantinople,  and  of  a  letter  of  safe  conduct  from 
the  great  Turk.  We  can  only  suppose  that  these  documents  were 
enrolled  in  testimony  of  the  genuineness  of  the  mercantile  travels 
of  Henry  Austell. 

Wee  Willm  Harebome  Esquyer  her  ma""  ordinarie  ambassador  in  the  Cittie  of 
Constaotinople  with  the  Gran  Sig*  Commonlye  Called  the  greate  Turke  doe 
ttatffye  all  and  every  of  what  degree  soever  to  whom  iheis  Letters  pattentes 
diall  come  to  be  sene  Redd  or  understande  that  henrye  Austell  of  Knaptofte  in  the 
Conntie  of  Leicester  gent  her  ma''"  servaunte  hath  attended  on  us  personally  in  this 
prewnte  monthe  of  September  1585  at  sundrye  tymes  within  the  sayde  Cittie  of 
Constantinople  of  Thracia  which  accoTdinge  to  his  Requeste  wee  doe  herebye 
tertifye  under  her  ma""  Seate  and  our  Firme  Dated  at  our  mansion  Cauled 
Rapuniat  (P)  this  xx]'^  of  the  month  and  yere  abovesayde  beinge  the  xxvij*^  of  the 
Raigne  of  our  most  gracious  mistres  and  soveraigne  Ladie  Elizabeth  by  the  grace  of 
^od  Queene  of  England,  Fraunce,  and  Irelande  Defendrix  of  the  faythe  etc. 

William  Harbome. 

Be  yt  knowen  unto  thee  whiche  arte  voyvoode  of  Bugdania  (sic)  that  henrye  Austell 
and  Jacomo  de  Maunci  Englishe  gentlemen  beinge  desyrous  to  Restore  unto  their 
«nme  Countreye  hathe  Requested  o'  hyghnes  Letters  of  Safe  Conducte  throughe  o' 
domynions  Wherefore  when  thys  o'  Commaundment  shall  come  unto  you  wee  eom- 
maviide  thee  and  other  o'  servauntes  there  to  lett  theise  aforesayd  gentlemen  with 
one  servaunte  and  with  goodes  and  Furniture  they  have  quyetly  to  passe  and 
conunaunde  that  they  have  provyded  for  their  moneye  such  necessarye  provision  as 
they  shall  think  requisite  for  themselves  or  their  horses  and  yf  by  chaunce  they 
come  into  any  place  where  they  shall  staunde  in  Feare  of  their  persons  or  gooddes 
that  thee  cause  them  to  be  garded  with  yo'  men  and  to  be  Conducted  through 
all  suspected  places  with  sufRciente  Companye  But  have  especiall  Regarde  they 
Convcjre  awaye  with  them  none  of  o*  Countrey  fayre  horses,  obey  this  o'  Com- 
maundement  and  give  creditt  to  o'  seale. 

Theis  Letters  of  Certificate  were  enrolled  amongeste  the  rolles  of  North'ton  att 
the  Requeste  of  henrye  Austell  gent,  who  was  lyvinge  and  in  perfecte  health  in 
Northton  the  xxix'^  of  Januarye  1585,  and  was  in  Northampton  att  the  sygne  of 
the  bdl  there  in  companye  in  the  presence  of  Mr.  John  Bonde  of  Coddesbrooke 
Esquyer  W'  Wyckens  Lawraunce  baylie  Ric  Wylkinson  Wm  Rawson  and  Thomas 
Sanbroke  towne  clarke  as  they  and  every  of  them  wyll  depose  yf  nede  Requyer. 

State  Lotteries. 

State  lotteries  originated  in  England  in  1567-g,  when  Queen 
Elizabeth  most  actively  promoted  one  for  the  repairs  of  harbours 
and  fortifications,  and  other  public  works.     The  drawing  went  on 


VARIA    ET    ADDENDA.  539 

passed  through  Northampton  is  testified  to  by  the  following  action 
of  the  corporation  in  1749. 

The  thanks  of  the  assembly  were  voted  to  Lord  Northampton, 
recorder,  on  January  3rd,  1749,  for  giving  notice  to  the  corporation 
by  letter  of  a  petition  being  presented  to  the  Commons  for  leave 
to  bring  in  a  bill  for  repairing  the  road  between  Bedford  and 
Market  Harborough,  "which  bill  if  it  pass  into  a  law  will  be  very 
prejudicial  to  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Town,  the  Trade  whereof 
depending  in  a  great  measure  on  the  Northern  road — leading 
through  this  town."  At  the  same,  George  Rowell,  the  town 
clerk,  was  instructed  to  forward  a  petition  to  Messrs.  Compton 
and  Montagu,  the  parliamentary  burgesses,  for  presentation  to  the 
House  of  Commons,  and  to  beg  them  to  oppose  the  bill ! 

Postmaster. 

During  the  Commonwealth  there  are  two  references  to  the 
Northampton  postmaster. 

In  February,  1646-7,  it  was  agreed  that  ;^  10  of  the  postmaster's 
yearly  allowance  shall  be  paid  to  Richard  Holies,  the  new  post- 
master upon  his  suit  before  Lady  day. 

In  1649  Richard  Holies  had  resigned  the  postmastership,  for  in 
that  year  he  received  50s.  compensation  from  the  assembly  for  a 
horse  taken  for  state  purposes. 

Horse  Racing. 

It  was  the  custom  of  several  of  our  older  and  more  important 
corporations  to  support  horse  racing  by  presenting  money  or 
money's  worth.  Horse  racing  on  Harleston  heath  was  an  estab- 
lished sport  in  the  time  of  Charles  1.  In  1632  the  corporation  of 
Northampton  covenanted  to  make  an  annual  offering  of  a  silver-gilt 
covered  cup  of  the  value  of  £16  13s.  4d.  The  chamberlain's  accounts 
for  the  end  of  the  seventeenth  and  beginning  of  the  eighteenth  cen- 
turies, always  contain  an  entry  under  expenditure  of  £16  13s.  4d., 
generally  characterised  as  "  the  horse  race  ptate,"  and  sometimes 
as  "the  Harleston  race  cup."  Among  the  mayor's  receipts  for 
the  same  period,  there  is  generally  entered  a  sum  of  £2  as 
"horse  race  money";  this  money  seems  to  have  been  always 
given  to  the  poor,  as  is  sometimes  expressly  stated. 

In  the  first  volume  of  Northamptonshire  Notes  and  Queries, 
there  is  a  copy   of  "  Articles   to   be   Observed   by  all    those  that 


54° 


SORTHAMfTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


Rutin  for  the  Purses  at  Haricston  Heath  in  the  Couoty  0*  Xi! 
ampton  on  Wednesday  the  Twenty  Eighth  of  this  InsLaat  Mud 
And  on  Fryday  the  Thirtieth  of  the  same  Month  in  the  Yor 
One  Thousand  Seven  Hundred  and  Twenty  Two." 

The  course  to  be    run    wan   four   miles.     The    moa   cnnaus  cf ; 
the  thirteen  articles  is  number  eight,  which  is  here  reprodiKxd -* 

"That  no  Horse  Marc  or  Gelding  Ihat  is  now  or  U  any  tiMO 
heretofore  has  been  the  Horse  Marc  or  Gelding  of  John  Kinj  nf 
Northampton  comonly  called  Old  Jack  King  shall  be  Permuted  or 
Allowed  to  Iviitcr  or  Kann  for  cither  of  these  Purses  Tbc 
John  King  bcine  for  Reasons  well  known  AKrerd  by  the 
tributors  to  these  Pl.itcs  (As  well  as  by  the  Contributors  to 
Quainton  and  other  Flatcs)  thought  I'nworthy  to  Runn  Iih_ 
Plate  or   Purse." 

In  1727  there  w£.s    published  "An    Historical    List  or 
of  all  the  Horse  Matches  Run,  and   of  all   the  Plates  and 
run  for   in    Eoxl^nd   (of  the  value  of  Tea  PouuU  at  upwar 
The  first  prize  at  Harlcston  was  the  corporation  plate  of  £iit 
46.     At  Northampton  plates  were  offered  worth  /.;■■    ■'''=   —^ 

In  the   mayor's  accounts  for    1733-4   is  the  ('. 
"  Paid   to   the    Duke    Marlborough  on  the   horse    Race  Mcomt 
pursuant    to    a    Decree    in    Chancery   as   appears   by    Rcc' 
89.  gd." 

.^moi^  the  miscellaneous   papers   is  one    brartng   date 
30*f>.   1734.  which  explains  this  entry.    U  is  endorsed  "Mr.. 
Receipt  for  £270  S5.  gii..  being  money  decreed    to    be  paid 
Marlborough  by  the  Corporation  in    Rdatton  to  Harlcston 
Race."     The  document  recites  a  chancery  decree  of  i ;  ; 
in  which  the  Duke  of  iMarlborough  and   Sir  Arthur  H'-^^.^-. 
complainants,  and  the  mayor  and  corporation  of  Nortluun( 
others  were  defendants.     It  was  ordered  that  the  Duke  ft 
of  Sunderland)  should  receive  jf  3oo  and  interest  from  tlailC 
The    order    was    certified    by    one    of    the    chancery    mastju*  ^ 
December,  1733.    The    Duke   of    Marlborougb  appointed  Ta 
Rogers    his   attorney   on    March    ist.    (73jt-4'         '        '  d 

signature,  and  this  is  followed  on  the   same  li     <  i'i 

receipt. 

It  is  said  that  the  llarlr^ion  heath  races  C'- 
after  1739,  the  Duke  of  .Marlborough's  ctaun  to  ' 
tbc  cause  of  their  cessation. 


VARIA    ET    ADDENDA.  54I 

The  corporation  also  supported  at  certain  times  the  town  races 
on  the  common  fields.  The  first  entry  relative  to  this  that  we 
have  met  with  was  under  the  Commonwealth. 

In  March  1658,  the  assembly  ordered  "  That  if  there  can  be 
noe  further  abatement  procured  the  Chamberlaines  doe  provide  two 
plates  according  to  the  desire  of  the  Countrey  Gent,  for  this  yeare 
viit  the  one  of  the  value  of  Thirtye  pounds,  the  other  of  the 
value  of  Fourtene  pounds  which  is  to  be  delivered  in  full  of  all 
former  arrears."  In  the  margin  is  written  in  a  later  hand  "upon 
what  account  Nescio." 

The  assembly,  in  August,  1822,  resolved  to  subscribe  annually 
£30  to  form  a  purse  to  be  called  the  corporation  purse,  provided 
that  no  less  than  four  subscribers  of  £5  each  be  added  thereto, 
"to  be  run  for  by  not  less  than  three  reputed  running  horses  on 
the  last  day  of  the  Autumn  races." 

The  Free  Grammar  School. 

The  following  additional  particulars  relative  to  the  later  history 
of  the  Free  Grammar  School  have  been  obtained  from  the  borough 
records  since  the  section  on  Charitable  Foundations  passed  through 
the  press  : — 

At  the  meeting  of  the  assembly  on  October  27th,  1785.  one  of 
the  burgesses  (Edward  Cox)  stated  that  Mr.  Woolley,  the  master 
of  the  Free  Grammar  School,  was  disposed  to  lease  to  him  the 
two  houses  and  gardens  in  Horseshoe  lane  belonging  to  the  school, 
with  leave  to  convert  one  of  the  houses  into  a  store  for  timber. 
The  assembly  refused  its  sanction,  as  the  value  of  the  property 
would  be  thereby  lessened.  Moreover,  "  the  members  present  being 
apprehensive  that  the  charitable  intention  of  the  founder  was  not 
duly  attended  to,  ordered  that  the  Mayor  and  five  others  be 
^pointed  a  committee  to  inquire  how  far  the  good  intention  of  the 
donor  is  observed,  and  what  children  are  educated  there  upon  the 
foundation." 

The  assembly  met  again  in  the  following  November,  when  this 
committed  reported  "  that  it  appears  to  them  the  stipend  given  to 
the  master  is  for  freely  teaching  grammar  to  such  children  as 
shall  be  sent  by  parents  being  free  of  the  town  of  Northampton 
without  any  stipend,  and  that  the  usher  is  to  be  assistant  to  the 
master  in  teaching  the  scholars  the  Latin  tongue,  and  good  writing, 
and  arithmetic    free    as   above."      It  was,  therefore,  ordered    that 


VARIA    ET    ADDENDA.  543 

are  coaveytd  along  it  are  unavoidably  subject  to  great  waste  breaking  and  Pilferage, 
the  communication  is  much  more  difficult  and  expensive  than  it  would  have  been 
by  water,  and  nearly  all  perishable  articles  of  Merchandiie  are  prevented  from 
passing  along  it. 

That  this  assembly  laments  that  so  spirited  and  useful  a  body  as  the  Grand 
Junction  Canal  Company  should  not  in  this  instance  have  acted  with  its  usual 
Liberality  and  regard  to  its  own  interest  in  not  having  made  a  water  communi- 
cation as  above  stated,  but  which  this  assembly  conceives  has  not  been  done  in 
consequence  (rf  the  Company  being  unacquainted  with  the  great  additional  Trade 
and  Revenue  which  might  have  been  derived  from  it,  and  which  would  have  been 
and  now  would  be  fully  adequate  to  compensate  for  the  expense  of  the  undertaking. 

That  thb  assembly  cannot  help  being  alarmed  by  seeing  notices  lately  given  of 
an  intention  to  apply  to  Parliament  for  powers  to  make  a  Cut  from  the  Union 
Canal  to  j<Hn  the  Grand  Junction  Canal  near  Long  Buckby  instead  of  joining  that 
Canal  and  the  River  Nine  or  Nen  as  originally  proposed  near  this  Town  (and  for 
iriiich  an  Act  of  Parliament  has  been  obtained  sixteen  years  ago)  thereby  not  only 
preventing  an  early  but  all  future  probability  of  this  Town  and  Neighbourhood 
having  the  full  advantage  of  Inland  Navigation. 

That  this  Assembly  conceives  the  above  Scheme  for  diverting  the  Union  Canal 
to  Long  Buckby  if  carried  into  effect  would  prove  highly  injurious  to  this  Town 
and  Neighbourhood  the  River  Nine  and  all  Places  diving  Benefit  from  that 
Navigation. 

That  this  assembly  do  petition  Parliament  against  the  intended  Scheme  for 
altering  the  Line  of  the  Union  Canal,  and  do  request  the  representatives  of  the 
Town  to  assist  in  preventing  the  intended  Bill  from  passing  into  a  Law. 

That  the  present  Mayor  Justices  and  Bailiffs  or  any  four  of  them  be  a  Committee 
for  preparing  and  presenting  the  said  Petitions  and  also  taking  such  other  Measures 
as  they  may  think  proper  for  obtaining  the  object  of  these  Resolutions. 

That  the  Town  Clerk  and  the  Town  Steward  be  appointed  Solicitors  to  attend 
the  said  Committee  and  assist  in  promoting  and  providing  the  object  ri^ferrcd 
to  the  said  Committee  and  also  to  apply  to  the  City  of  Peterborough  the  Towns  of 
Oundle  Thrapston  Wellingborough  and  such  other  places  as  may  be  interested  in 
the  matter  for  their  co-operation  and  support. 

Petitions  to  the  two  houses,  to  the  above  effect,  were  adopted 
by  the  assembly  on  March  23rd,  1810. 

Railways. 

Irrational  as  was  the  action  of  the  corporation  in  opposition  to 
horse-drawn  railways  on  tram-lines  in  iSio,  it  was  as  nothing  com- 
pared with  the  strenuous  fight  against  railways  in  association  with 
steam. 

In  January,  1831,  the  assembly  curtly  decided  that  "  no  consent 
be  given  by  this  House  to  the  projected  plan  for  making  a  Railway 
to  and  from  London  and  Birmingham." 


Appendix. 


Ijira  OP  HAVORS,  bailiffs,  chamberlains,  stewards,  town  clerks,  srrjrants- 

AT-HACB,  TOWN    CRIERS,   AND   MASTERS   OP  PftBR   GRAMMAR  SCHOOL, 


LL 


APPENDIX.  547 


LIST     OF     MAYORS. 

'l  *HERE  are  no  documents  extant  in  the  public  record  office  from  which  any 
complete  list  of  mayors  can  be  obtained.  The  fairly  accurate  lists  that  are 
not  infrequently  printed  in  the  local  histories  of  our  various  ancient  boroughs  are, 
as  a  rule,  taken  from  old  rolls  pertaining  to  the  town  records.  Very  few  actual 
rails  of  that  character  are  extant,  but  in  many  a  town  there  are  transcripts  of  such 
rolls  in  either  public  or  private  custody.  , 

With  regard  to  Northampton,  the  town  muniments  do  not  include  any  official 
roll  or  list  of  mayors,  but  there  are  several  MS.  lists  in  private  hands,  as  well  as 
printed  ones,  which  carry  back  the  names  of  mayors  and  bailiffs  to  the  beginning 
ot  the  reign  of  Edward  IV.  (March  4th,  1460-1).  One  of  these  is  in  the  MS. 
history  of  Northampton  in  Mr.  Crick's  possession,  another  in  the  Hall  MS.,  and  a 
third  in  the  possession  of  Mr.  Christopher  Markham.  The  last  of  these  seems  to 
hare  been  originally  an  official  book,  or  the  property  of  some  official  of  the  Cor- 
poration, and  was  written  out  in  the  latter  part  of  the  Commonwealth  period, 
probably  in  1656,  when  the  lists  of  night  watchmen  were  entered  in  the  same  book. 
Two  other  lists,  both  of  the  end  c^  last  century,  have  been  kindly  shown  to  us ; 
but  we  are  not  at  liberty  to  mention  their  whereabouts,  their  owners  having,  in  our 
opinion,  exaggerated  views  of  their  value  and  importance.  We  believe  both  of 
them  (in  their  earlier  parts)  to  be  more  or  less  inexact  copies  of  Mr.  Markham's 
chronicle. 

In  one  of  the  last  editions  of  Freeman  &  Son's  small  History  of  Northampton, 
published  in  1847,  the  list  of  mayors  and  bailiffs  is  carried  back  to  the  year  1377. 
It  is  not  staled  whence  this  information  is  derived,  but  after  considerable 
inquiry  it  came  to  our  knowledge  that  there  is  in  the  University  Library,  Dublin,  a 
roll  of  Northampton  mayors  and  bailiffs,  beginning  with  the  first  year  of  Richard 
II.  and  ending  with  the  first  year  of  Edward  IV.  This  seems  to  be  the  source  of 
Freeman's  extended  list.  A  literal  transcript  has  been  kindly  supplied  to  us  of  the 
Dublin  rail ;  the  librarian  is  unable  to  state  when  or  how  the  manuscript  came  into 
the  pouession  of  the  University.  The  date  of  the  original  writing  of  this  roll 
■eems  to  be  145S  or  1459,  only  the  conclusion  having  been  added,  the  remainder 
being  written  at  the  same  time,  and  hence  a  copy  of  an  earlier  edition  now 
lost.  This  Dublin  roll  is  interspersed  with  a  few  brief  interpolations  of  important 
oatiODal  events,  but  has  hardly  any  local  allusions.  Under  the  sixth  year  of  Richard 
II.  is  recorded: — 

Ttrrm  metui  fuit  die  festum  pmf.  Ei  in  dieto  Anno  surrecfio  in  Kent  per 
yak  Strawe  qui  interfeetus  fuit  P'   Walleworthe  tunc  Motor  London. 

Subsequently,  the  battle  of  Wakefield  and  a  few  other  later  events  are  set  forth 
>t  greater  length.     Throughout  the   reign  of  Henry   IV.  the   occupations  of   the 

L  L  2 


s^ 


KORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


'mmb  «*  t^  xkm  iKM  pwT  wc  iann.  wHim  M>di  ano  » 

k  ■  iaifaHUr  m  (■  hack  «kCv  tlwa  1337  for  «  conphsc  Uii  «l  tl>  twm 
^BodK,  feH  ■»  f^i**  ^■*  ^"^  i^aNd  is  Uir  mueh  to  cwtt-  ilw  ioi*  fcadk  liMr 
ariMB.  Afar  coMafciiig  •  wvy  ]argc  nmnber  of  old  doed*  «  Ac 
^  C>^fe  Rk»4  OSc*.  m  w^  m  ^  tlw  MHy  rv^ancM  a>a^ 
■pTOidi.  of  nro  icnc*  of  tte  osmv  ef  fiu;«n  lud  ahoot  ite 
WKc  oi  pan   «f  bloii^  pnat   u>    1377,  kaw  boa*   nBcovt>«4.      Wba«   IIk}   at 

ThoK  «K  aB  •oar  {ur  ih*  &m  tiac  ptiaicd. 

TW  ■■>«&  Ear  ihae  mBu  aana  tOMaKactenfqnaU&stheoplBlaa  ynMawi^ 
Ofoaaed  (f^  14,  jOr)  aa  t«  tW  dMlc  *1m»  tba  titU  of  maijror  «w  Got  met  m 
WiirrtMnfTiw  fc  Mw  hBaoai  cndau  that  ttnr  chawgw  from  tlw  tHfc  d^  tmm  m 
wagm  OOBH  afcoM  )■  Nect&ani***  to  tfe  naK«  tt  Rkkard  ■„  Un:  bm  (&••  •&•• 
la(  «ilfe  lM<ra  ani  Yoah  to  bdtt(  ite  fctt  to  Mlapt  tkU  mcBunhte  Atagt  d 
BOaaadKB*.  TW  Iteac  fliKaiwiia  cf  the  nagn  of  Rirhan)  I.,  wbcfiaa  Ok  bs» 
fli  WiBMH  107.  OS  TBIk  M  Tj^r.  i*  p*»  ">  nurwr  «f  Nort^anpfak.  an  it 
t^ja.  Had  they  faHK  to  Tihihiii  rum  li  it  tnifta  haw  bcce  'aid  thai  Ihb  as 
aif  •  «atlaq)nl  laadaaf  irf  rrrve. 

Ea  Aaiiic  9  the  lul—tog  Ibt  td  laajstat  c*ay  kaamn  luc  has  tMcn  laOia^ 
tt»  aarijr  «■•  ■  DaUto,  the  f«c  iiimiih  ii|H  aaas  to  pcdratc  bandi,  fwam^ 
[ilwl  fiat.  «ri  tka  T«7  tFi-"— *-  Ibi  on  the  malt  altiehto  in  IW-  Mhj  if  tto 
Tom  HaB.  Sra7  dm  cd  !&■  E«B  IniliBtv  (nva  haw  pit  ooadimd  aad  arM«l} 
dat^a  Imb  the  niddle  ai  Kfiabach^  lai^,  bj  toaving  ool  tha  na;ar  abo  mm 
«lactad  to  i577 

Praa  tha  jaar  1553  dwrawatdfc.  «e  can  plcdxe  uanrivea  that  the  Ml— ia^  la 
'm  yualaii Ij  cvrad,  lu-wam  aac^  oama  hu  beea  tahaa  totwwAatciy  (nm  Ihi  ddat 
«f  HaanUjT  or  mfaer  asuat  roalampam]'  town  ra:ard*. 

TW  jvcar  aBaad  (0  aach  aujqr'f  aatna  (and  the  nana  iolda  (oud  to  iW  Mh 
aqacM  tbt  cf  b^iffs)  b  tW  oa*  of  ha«  «fcct>oa.  TU«  ia  tba  «ai)y  sat*  aad  and 
ooaoe  to  adopt.  H  Aa  »wo  jwa»  oa«  wfckh  tha  awyw  piwidw  »v  fcyrn^l 
tcs^her.  or  the  Eaoar  fear  adopted  (Iwauue  finoB  1835  it  todadn  rnatu  U  to 
idem.  Iherc  b  con*ideraMe  prabahaity  ol  a  wMBf>  dale  neaptoc  to  and  niafia« 
bctaf  maaad. 

Up  to  1835,  the  ma/oi  inii  baUifo  trm  deoed  «■  SC  Hh^Vb  Daj,  Aiqrsi  /^ 
wMeh  wa*  tcmad  '<^Mic»  day.  The  fiawly  appetotal  mayor  Ad  not,  huaiaii.  o^ 
iato  office  till  Sqitemhn  agilt.  being  icnned  "  the  aMyor'i  jcaai.'  thai  U  m  i^ 
cxteot  iolnl  mayor,  up  U>  the  lait«»  d*Te.  U  arthar  mayor  at  batldl  di^  o»  aw*  ia 
npaciuted  b^wMn  Auguti  <|tb  mad  Septembit  Jgib,  tha  aum  ctaaaa  to  M^if 
onc»  nepped  into  of&ne  iriiboiii  fnrihe*  (otnalilT-  It  sboold  alaa  he  t^Mab^ 
that  new  ycar'»  dij  wu  Murb  JSth  (and  not  Jaauiy  iRt  antil  ijj^  m  due  if  la 
that  date  the  yeat  iinAzcd  l«  Uie  mayot's  name  npttaenU  by  f«  tha  hapa  piAP 
of  the  tadwmomh  (or  trtikb  h*  toJJ  aAcc 

[B^b***  fm  M«M«  a»*  «»'«™    aiM^ff   <-W  j*«f.     it   imfijn   tie  dr<mtl    »f  IMir  ^A^ 


APPENDIX. 

54! 

9tf.  Richard  I.     William  Tilly 

1381 

Lawrence  H addon 

*r 

„            Roger  Fitztheobald 

1382 

Thomas  Wakelync 

laso 

Robert  the  mayor 

1383 

Thomas  Sutton 

1350 

Robert  Spicer 

1384 

John  Fox 

ias3 

WtUiam  Gangy 

138s 

John  Shrovesbury 

ia6o 

Benedict  Dodd 

1386 

SimoD  Daventry 

ia64 

John  the  Apothecary 

1387 

John  Grigge  (draper) 

1367 

John  Le  Moyne 

1388 

Henry  Lavender 

1370 

William  Fitzthomas 

1389 

Thomas  Sprygy  (draper) 

1371 

John  Spicer 

1390 

Simon  Daventry 

1373 

John  Spicer 

"391 

Richard   Spicer 

1374 

William  le  Pesson 

1393 

John   Fox 

1377 

John  de  Staunford 

1393 

John  Shrovesbury 

1980 

Robert  Fitzhenry 

"394 

Thomas  Wakelyne 

ia83 

Robert  Fiuhenry 

139s 

Henry  Cayso    (draper) 

1386 

Robert  Fitchenry 

1396 

John  Shrovesbury 

ii89 

Robert  Fitzhenry 

1397 

William  Sheff.ird 

1390 

John  le  Megre 

'398" 

William  SheRord 

1397 

Pentecost  de  Kernhalton 

"399 

John  Fox 

1304 

Robert  de  Bedford 

1400 

John   Fox 

'307 

Robert  de  Rous 

1401 

John  Loutheham  (woolman) 

131 1 

John  de  Staunford 

1403 

Thomas  Sprygy 

131*5 

Henry  Garlekmonger 

1403 

Thomas  Overton  (draper) 

1318 

Philip  de  Caysho 

1404 

John  Sywell 

1331 

Robert  de  Burgh 

"405 

John  Shrovesbury 

1333 

John  le  Waydour 

1406 

William  Wale 

1334 

Robert  le  Rous 

1407 

Simon  Spycer  (mercer) 

1335 

Henry  Garlekmonger 

1408 

William  Shefford 

1336 

Simon  de  Levishull 

1409 

Henry  Cayso 

1337 

Simon  de  Levishull 

1410 

John  Sprynge   (mercer) 

1338 

Walter  de  Burgh 

141 1 

John   Weller   (draper) 

"334 

John  de  LungevitI 

141a 

Thomas  Wedon 

1335 

John  de  Lungevill 

1413 

John  Gregory  (ironmonger) 

1338 

Adam  de  Cottysbrok 

1414 

John  Sprynge  (mercer) 

1343 

Thomas  de  Staunford 

141S 

John  Sprynge  (mercer) 

1349 

Sir  John  de  Vyneter 

1416 

John  Loutheham 

1357 

William  Wakelynge 

1417 

Thomas  Warwyk 

13&) 

John  de  Getyngton 

1418 

Thomas  Sale 

1361 

John  de  Getyngton 

1419 

Thomas  Sale 

1367 

William  Wakelynge 

1430 

John  Sprygy  (draper) 

1369 

John  de  Getyngton 

1421 

Richard  Wemys 

1373 

John  de  Getyngton 

1422 

Thomas  Sale 

1377 

John    Gedington 

1423 

Thomas  Sale 

1378 

John  Shrovesbury 

1424 

Henry  Cayso 

"379 

John  Haughton 

1425 

John  Sprygy 

1380 

Simon  Daventry 

1436 

John  Sprygy 

APPENDIX. 


551 


1507  Htxry  Honiphrej 

1508  JohnSubf 

1509  JohnPeTTen 

1510  Richud  Crape 
Jotm  Watts* 

151 1  John  Smith 
J<dtn  Hilton 

1513  Roger  Gold 

1513  Thonus  Peoar 

1514  Tbomaa  Chipsej 

1515  J(d><>  Wmlker 

1516  William  Band 

1517  Richard  Dickson 

1518  Richard  Wheeler 

1519  John  Saxbr 

1530  Richard  Bowers 

1531  John  Backbr 

1533  Richard  Howard 
15^  Thomas  Addington 

1534  John  Perren 

1535  Lawrence  Hanlej 

1536  John  Motte 

1537  Thomas  Chipsej 

1538  William  Band 

1539  Richard  A'Bowers 

1530  Richard  Dickson 

1531  Joiin  Saabj 
1533  LanrrcDcc  WufaJngtoa 

1533  Ridurd  Wilkinsoo 

1534  Nicholas  Rands 

1535  Lawfenee  Maal^ 

1536  Wiliiam  Wager 

1537  Jaiiii  Uone 

1538  Thomas  ChipK* 

1539  Hinrr  N'«l 

1540  Ricfaaid  A'Bowen 

1541  Joian  Br.-^iTfiH 
1543  Anthony  Brian 

•  Two  other  [isa  bave  Taomu  "WaUB.  amd 
t  Lawnnca  Manlar  iied  m  iua  sayiaarf^, 

hit  may-iraJIv,  ir..(    vij    :.       i    j-.  fuli— nM 

I  Ralph,  not   Raphari,  u  ^tv^n     n  Ml   Ac 
ilyli%  and  not  RapnacJi. 

t  StnuiBE  CO  ta.f.  ;t-.i*  -nanv  -:>»  -ibw*  m 
Iped  mo<«  Iban  anrr&ind  ^ik  -m  ;jn»  -*•  ■ 
I  pcrfactty  exfillaT  aa  -ja   lu 


iSti    Christopber  Bernard 

1544  Richard  Johnson 

1545  Lawrenrc  WashitiEtca 

1546  Richard  WilkiASOCi 

1547  Lawrence  Manlej'  f 
John  Browne 

1548  Henry  Clark 
'549    John  Browne 

1550  Ralph  X  Freeman 

1551  Nicholas  Rands 
1553     Henry  Neal 

1553  George  Coldwetl 

1554  William  Taylor 
William  Petnall 

■555    Anthony  Bryan 

1556  John  Balguy 

1557  Lawrence  Manley,  jnn. 
leAtn  Browne 

1558  John  Long 

1559  Edward  Manley 
ij6o    Thomas  Hopkins 
1561     Thomas  Colli* 
1563     Ralph  Maynard 

1563  Richard  Wharloe 

1564  Thomas  Penwrton 

1565  John  Balgiiy 

1566  Edward  M^tnley 
\giij    John  Bryan 

1568  Hmry  W»ft.il«y 

1569  Thomas  fl«^iM 

1570  9.31^   HmfVMlA 

1571  Rirhar't  Wnsrl'iA 
'57*  John  H*n*mnn 
'373  H«nr/  f,i*f'/» 
1574  R^w^M  'A*'i\f-i 
'i7v  ^Aftt^  '^tH-.ff 

aB^    WM   *>rirrfr»     ff    ^A  -     Miv*'-i       H/    *    >■■ 
"■■*    ••yv-      >;•      <»,,     :■*    li^    0at»   (Mit 


?fl»w0A4       '''^fc      -     ■-,'           .-        -' 

^*-.*Mf,j,    .*.«•      .«« 

«Wa    -•it  '^^'    <  *-P 

.''m*    'jJ    tmMm.tt^f 

IMT.          if  ,.,,,,       ir^-,     ^.^.l^ 

gt'~^*^^     ^   ^   f^^ 

^^^^^^^^^^55*                          NORTHAMPTON 

BOROUGH    RECORDS.  ^^^^^B 

^^^^^^^^^^B                   1578    jate  Bfy»a 

1618 

Edtcanl  Col  lis 

^^^^^^^^^^^M                   IS79    TbtKoaa  CiuiiBtJI 

1619 

f(aphap!  Huni|iliRT 

^^^^^^^^^^^^H                   t jSs    Jobn  HvfilEais 

iCix> 

H?nry  Chad  wick 

^^^^^^^^H                    (fSi     John  KjitbHW* 

i6n 

Tbcnus  Cooper 

^^^^^^^^^^^1                  158a    LavicKc  M>»lc]r 

1^2 

RkluJ-d  %Voo!U)iaB 

^^^^^^^^^^K                             1583      jfikA  lla«M 

16^ 

TlidRiai  Gulteiidft! 

^^^^^^^^^H                  USBi    JobaHmBM 

1604 

Thoroai  NUrtin 

^^^^^^^^B                  a^     WaGMDRanrfod 

16:^ 

Roger  Ssrgetil 

^^^^^^^^^^^H                    ISSS    Job*  Birhe— 

1636 

WillUin  Kmgbt 

^^^^^^^^^^1                  tjd?    Tlw^  Hawphnr 

16x7 

jolin  Daobie           ^^^^M 

^^^^^^^^^1                    1S88    Tha^Wij&Quwtil 

t««8 

Jvfc  n  C->S«»4           ^^^^1 

^^^^^^^H                    uSg    JokiUollnd 

i6ai> 

Jolia  HarOeit                   ^H 

^^^^^^^H                    ISB    nsMsFiTcr 

1O30 

John  BoU                  ^^^1 

^^^^^^^^^^1                     ^SSf    I"^  Coopef 

i6j|i 

Matthe*  SilhatMl^^H 

^^^^^^^^H                     ISP    LkbkxB^ 

1631 

Jrfio  Turigdrn           ^^^H 

^^^^^^^^^H                     lao    |aihBlk7a> 

i^ 

Tbomu  Cowpa             ^^ 

^^^^^^^^^1                     ij9«    EdMriHaw 

i^M 

ThomaA    Gutteridft           ■ 

^^^^^^^^^^B                     isgs    CM^eRaiadiad 

TbaDua  Mvlln                ^t 

^^^^^^^^^^^1                     \ssfi    TVAbkt  CrassBdl 

'635 

WillMm  Koi^               ■ 

^^^^^^^^^^B                     ■SV    JotaUcnA 

1636 

Joha  <nJf<Bi3                    ^M 

^^^^^^^^^^^P                     1550    "noMas  Hinpk«r 

lSj7 

WitUam  CoUii                1 

^^^^^^^^^^^^H                        >i99     Cdva;^  H^i^oaa 

te-jR 

Rielurd  Fovrler               H 

^^^^^^^^^^1                      t6oo    TWMoas  Atkus 

iSj9 

John  Danby           ^^^^M 

^^^^^^^^^V                      t«Q)     TVau  JWkiM 

l&t« 

JohTi  Fisber           ^^^^| 

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ft  i6ai    E^vord  MKor 

1641 

lawrencc  Ball        ^^^| 

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^    i6dj     Grorf«  RuiTCCKd 

iSu 

Johii  Oifford            ^^^B 

S>;     A:-...-i--.  \";-:r.5 
r:o      7.-. --.-J  3rii:,.-i 


■e.-r-  .-v;  -s:..-i; 


i04_j  rrancis  k^jsnw.inn 

l6i4  Joseph  Sergtans 

1645  Sirn'^e)   M.irtin 

l6i6  Percr  W r. ;.!!<.■  v 

1647  Jcihn  Spicer 

164S  Thorna-   r;"iiie;on 

1649  Mit:hew  S.lible 

1650  Ber.jni  Co^dwell 

1651  Thomis  Mivnird 
165;  L.iwrcTice  W'Ljoi'.aiton 
165J  Henrv   Sprigs 

11^54  Edw.ird  Collis 

1P55  Peter  Whi.ley 
Johr.  Spicer 


APPENDIX. 

1656 

Joseph  Sergeant 

1693 

Samuel  ClifEord 

i657 

Jonathan  Whiston 

1694 

John  Collis 

1658 

William  Selby 

1695 

Jonathan  Warner 

1659 

Thomas  Collins 

1696 

Robert  Ives,  jun. 

ififio 

John  Twigden 

1697 

John  Clarke 

1661 

Thomas  Thornton 

1698 

John  Hoare 

i66a 

William  Spencer  (deposed  by 

John  Clarke 

K.  Charles) 

1699 

Thomas  Brafield 

John  Brayfield 

1700 

Edward  Ivory 

1663 

William  Vaughan 

1 701 

William  Pettitt 

iAm 

Francis  Pickmer 

1709 

Benjamin  Bullivant 

1665 

John  Friend  (Frend  o[  Freind) 

1703 

Samuel  Clifford 

liWi 

Richard  Rands 

1704 

John  Whithome 

1667 

Richard  Massingberd 

1705 

John  Clarke  (draper) 

166S 

John  Stevens 

1706 

Richard  Sanders,  sen. 

John  Friend 

1707 

Henry  Jeffeutt 

1669 

William  Spencer 

1708 

Samuel  Lyon 

1670 

Edward  Col  lis 

1709 

Samuel  Lyon 

1671 

Joseph  Sergeant 

1710 

Joseph  Woolston 

167a 

John  Willoughby 

171 1 

John  Agutter 

1673 

John  Howes 

1713 

John  Clarke 

1674 

Jonathan  Whiston 

1713 

Thomas  Carr  (grocer) 

1675 

Edward  Knighton 

1714 

Thomas  Peach,  sen. 

1676 

John  Friend 

I7"S 

John  Loasbey 

1677 

John  Friend 

1716 

John  Wallis 

1678 

Richard  White 

1717 

John  Wallis 

1679 

Richard  White 

1718 

Richard  Jeffcott 

ififio 

Bartholomew  Manning 

1719 

Thomas  Ives 

1681 

William  Else 

1720 

Richard  Sanders 

1682 

Thomas  Atterbury 

1721 

Paul  Agutter 

1683 

Thomas  Sergeant 

1733 

William  Burt 

1684 

Robert  Styles 

1723 

Thomas  Hayes 

1685 

Robert  Ives,  jun. 

1734 

Nicholas  Jeffcutt 

1686 

Theophilus  Whiston 

1735 

Nicholas  Battin 

1687 

William  Wallis    (deposed  by 

1726 

George  Thompson 

K.  James) 

1737 

Samuel  Williamson 

John  Willoughby 

1738 

Samuel  Plackett 

1688 

Henry   Flexney   (deposed  by 

1739 

John  Pratt 

K.  James) 

1730 

Nathaniel  Easton 

John  Selby 

1731 

Thomas  Peach,  jun. 

1689 

James  Green 

1733 

Edward  Bayly 

1690 

Thomas  Chad  wick  • 

'733 

John  Woolston 

i^i 

John  Clark 

1734 

John  Battin 

1693 

William  Agutter 

>73S 

John  Fawsitt  t 

*  Two  of  the  [IMS  have  ceipectlydr  Chaddock  and  Haddock. 

tTbe  lilt*  give  Fawcelt,  FawcltC,  and  Ponetl. 

553 


-—  ._.-;  N-.:: 


APPENDIX. 

i824 

James  Castell 

1861 

Henry  Philip  Markham 

i8as 

Edward  Gates 

1863 

John  Phipps 

1836 

Daniel  Hewlett 

1863 

Mark  Dorman 

1837 

Francis  MuUiner 

1864 

Thomas  Osborne 

1828 

John  Marshall 

1865 

James  Barry 

1839 

John  Marshall 

1866 

Pickering  Phipps 

1830 

Henry  Lenton  Stockbum 

1867 

J.  Berridge  Norman 

1831 

John  Phipps 

1868 

J.  Middleton  Vernon 

183a 

John  Freeman 

1869 

William  Adkins 

1833 

William  Fisher  Morgan 

1870 

Pickering  P.  Perry 

1834 

William  Gates 

1 871 

Henry  Marshall 

1835 

Charles  Freeman 

1873 

William  Jones 

1836 

George  Peach 

1873 

Richard  Turner 

1837 

George  Peach 

1874 

William  Adkins 

1838 

Thomas  H agger 

187s 

Joseph  Gurney 

1839 

Thomas  Sharp 

1876 

George  Turner 

1840 

William  Williams 

1877 

Thomas  Tebbutt 

1S41 

William  Turner 

1878 

William  Dennis 

iHni 

Edward  Harrison  Barwell 

1879 

Joseph  Gurney 

1843 

Edward  Harrison  Barwell 

1880 

Robert  Derby 

1844 

Edward  Harrison  Barwell 

18S1 

William  John  Peirce 

184s 

John  Groom 

1883 

William  Coulson 

1846 

Thomas  Sharp 

1883 

Moses  Philip  Manfield 

1847 

Joseph  Wykes 

1884 

Thomas  Adams 

1848 

Joseph  Wykes 

'    i88s 

Thomas  Adams 

1849 

Francis  Parker 

1886 

Richard  Cleaver 

1850 

Francis  Parker 

1887 

Frederick  Covington 

1851 

Thomas  H agger 

1888 

James  Barry 

1852 

Philadelphus  Jeyes 

1889 

William  Mills 

1853 

William  Williams 

1890 

George  Norman 

1854 

William  Dennis 

1891 

Edwin  Bridgewater 

185s 

Christopher  Markham 

1892 

Henry  Martin 

1856 

William  Thomas  Higgins 

1893 

Henry  Edward  Randmll 

1857 

William  Hensman 

1894 

William  Tomes 

1858 

William  Roberts 

'895 

Frederic  Ellen 

1859 

Edmund  Francis  Law 

1896 

Henry  Edward  Randall 

i860 

Pickering  Phipps 

LIST   OF 

BAILIFFS. 

1230 

Ralph  Passelewe 

c.     1260 

Richard  de  S'.  Neots 

Edmund 

Henry  de  Stormesworthe 

1240 

Luke  Parmenter 

1370 

William  Fraunceys 

Simon  de  Houton 

Richard  le  Mustarder 

1350 

Robert  de  Leycester 

I37I 

Gilbert  de  Blithesworth 

Ralph  Passelewe 

Roger  de  Arderne 

555 


J 


l-ru,       xa  \.i-3=rM 


Ssacae  Bon 
?r  :.T  i*  ?T^"rrf 


•373 
'377 
1J78 
'379 
1380 

1381 
I3fa 
1383 

1385 
■3« 

1388 

1389 
1390 
1391 


"396 


'397 


1398 


'399 


I400 


I40I 


1402 


1403 


I404 


»40S 


1406 


1407 


1408 


1409 


1410 


141 1 


I4>3 


I4>3 


1414 


141S 


1416 


APPENDIX. 

Edmund  Stychhall 

1417 

Philip  Darling  (fishmonger) 

John  Gregory 

1418 

William  Baj;ge worth 

John  Weliys  (draper) 

1419 

William  Best  (ironmonger) 

Henry  Impyngham 

1420 

John  Martyne 

William  Curteys 

1421 

Simon  Walker 

Thomas  Wedon 

1433 

Lawrence  Quintan 

John  Pury 

1+33 

John  Rushcden  (fishmonger) 

Richard  Arcy  (mercer) 

1434 

William  Barry  (hosier) 

William  Wodehouse 

>43S 

Nicholas  Tidymann  (skinner) 

John  Tiningham 

John  Revell  (dyer) 

1426 

Richard  Arderne 

William  Harpole  (roper) 

1427 

Thomas  Wynteringham 

(painter) 

1428 

Richard  Lenche  (barber) 

Richard    Wemmea 

(apothecary) 

1429 

John  Hendeley 

William  Patte 

1430 

Roger  Maltman  (fishmonger) 

John  Gryme 

143' 

Nicholas  Hilton  (baker) 

John  Darby  (ostler) 

1432 

William  Gierke  (mercer) 

William  Rusheden  (hosier) 

Geoffrey  Ball 

1433 

Roger  Barber 

John  Gyles  (pardoner') 

1434 

Alexander  Deyster 

Thomas  Pole  (notary) 

1435 

John  Spriggy  (draper) 

John  Baldeswell  (draper) 

1436 

John  Pury  (draper) 

557 

John  Stottesbury  (draper) 
John  Hancock  (mercer) 
John  Barry  (mercer) 
William  Puiy  (draper) 
John  Bray  (mercer) 
John  Coly 
William  Boteler 
John  Godewyn  (fuller) 
John  Barteram  (mercer) 
William  Dryffeld  (dyer) 
Richard  Ashebourne  (glover) 
William  Maltman  (meroer) 
Thomas  Knightley  (baker) 
John  Rockingham  (glover) 
Henry  Stone  (man  of  law) 
Charles  Wylscote(cloth  maker) 
Richard  Warde  (dyer) 
Jo3ephTiringham(i  ronmonger) 
William  Coke  (butcher) 
John  Maxey  (fuller) 
John  Church  (fuller) 
John  Store  (mercer) 
Walter  Albone  (barber) 
Thomas  Saxby  (mercer) 
Thomas  Bottesham 

(ironmonger) 
William  Horncastle( pardoner) 
Richard  Goslyn  (saddler) 
Thomas  Aleyn  (fishmonger) 
Ralph  Sadler 

Ralph  Passenham  (yeoman) 
Thomas  Toucester  (fuller) 
John  Oxenford  (taylor) 
Thomas  Cory  (fletcher  t) 
Simon  Saddler 

Thomas  Deraunt  (ironmonger) 
William  Peryn  (mercer) 
William  Rusheden  (draper) 
John  Reve  (hosier) 
Thomas  Chandler 
Gilbert  Lyster  (hosier) 
John  Allgoode  (weaver) 
Thomas  Evesham  (butcher) 


*  A  pacdoDcc  wai  a  dealer  in  eccleslaicical  pardon*  and  [ndalgencn. 
t  A  fletcher  was  a  makei  ol  anowi. 


APPENDIX. 

«479 

William  Flower 

1502 

John  Hilton 

Roger  Butler 

John  Mankin 

14R0 

Henry  Humphrey 

1503 

John  Harris 

Th«nia«  Bradfield 

John  Woodward 

1481 

John  Sakin 

1504 

Thomas  Brown 

John  Willi! 

Thomas  BradBeld 

1482 

John  Buckby 

1505 

John  Hollwell 

John  More 

John  Saxbie 

1483 

Hugh  Woodfall 

1506 

John  Walker 

Simon  Rowland 

John  Perren 

1484 

William  Buckby 

1507 

Thomas  Young 

John  Wided 

Richard  Wheeler 

148s 

RoheH  Shepherd 

1508 

John  Buck  by 

John  Daune 

Richard  Alward 

14S6 

John  Watts 

1509 

William  Band 

Thomas  Boddington 

Thomas  Chipiey 

1487 

John  Dissey 

1510 

Richard  A  bowers 

John  Butler 

Richard  Dainty 

1488 

William  Manningham 

IS" 

William  Green 

John  Man 

Richard  Dickson 

1489 

John  Wolfe 

ISI9 

William  Whetfield 

William  Nicholaa 

Thomas  Doddington 

i«o 

Richard  Storer 

IS>3 

John  Watts 

Johr  Stanbrid^ 

John  Mordock 

1491 

William  Prentice 

1S14 

Richard  He  ward 

John  RoKhend 

William  Goffe 

1493 

John  West 

1S15 

William  Wager 

Mailhcw  Sweyn* 

William  Marshall 

1493 

John  Sijiilh 

1516 

William  Shefford 

Edward  Chamberlain 

Thomas  Adams 

1494 

John  Sayer 

ISI7 

Thomas  Wilver 

William  Parvin 

Roger  Meadney 

1495 

Richard  Norton 

1518 

John  Longe 

John  Norton 

Thomas  PembertoD 

1496 

Simon  West 

'519 

HenryArtowjmith 

John  Boyers 

Richard  Re  we 

■497 

Walter  Chamberlain 

1590 

John  Walker 

John  Page 

Roger  Sturdy 

1498 

John  Marshall 

ijai 

Lawrence  Manley 

Thomas  Riledge 

John  Warner 

'499 

Thomas  Lyon 

1533 

Richard  Wilkinson 

Christopher  Reading 

Thomas  Woodders 

1500 

Richard  Crispe 

1533 

Richard  Godfrey 

Richard  Greene 

John  Godfrey 

1501 

Thomas  Parker 

1534 

Nicholas  Rands 

Thomas  Willowes 

Thomas  Marshall 

559 


APPENDIX. 

IS7> 

William  Merry 

>594 

Thomas  Potter 

John  Holhead 

Edward  Martin 

»S7a 

Robert  Rands 

'595 

Robert  Reason 

L.iufrence  Manlev 

William  Wheelows 

1573 

John  Hopkins 

IS9<S 

Robert  Fisher 

Jofan  Bichenoe 

Thomas  Rands 

1574 

John  Brooks 

'597 

Lawrence  Raynaford 

Thonnjs  Huniplin]' 

Henry  Eyrsworth 

•575 

John  Lowick 

'598 

Thomas  Bradford 

Nicholas  Cleator 

Francis  Fisher 

1576 

George  Bradshaw 

'599 

Henry  Holland 

Richard  Croue 

John  Taylor 

1577 

160a 

Richerd  Britten 
Richerd  Walmsley 

1578 

Christopher  Roson 

1601 

Henry  Chadwick 

John  Kynes worth 

Thomas  Chadwick 

1579 

Thomas  Adkins 

l603 

Gefirg'i  Caldwell 

Robert  Lee 

James  Mercer 

1580 

Lawrence  Manky 

1603 

Edward  Hunter 

Thomas  Cooper 

Raphael  Humphrey 

158 1 

Henry  Wharley 

1604 

Richard  Woolaston 

Henry  Boddington 

Thomas  Gootfaridge 

1583 

Richard  Watts      . 

1605 

John  Danby 

Richard  Hensman 

Arthur  Potter 

1583 

John  Langham 

1606 

Lavvieiit«  Ball 

George  Blood 

Matthew  Silsby 

1584 

William  Barrow 

1607 

Thomas  Martin 

Nicholas  Parker 

William  Rugby 

1585 

John  Maynard 

ifioA 

John  Mayne 

HughCoaies 

John  Twigden 

1586 

John  Wiffston 

1609 

John  Willowes 

Roljert  Story 

Wilham  Walton 

1587 

Thomas  Sanbrook 

1610 

Richard  Smart 

Edward  James 

John  Green 

1588 

Thomas  J  ud kins 

161 1 

John  Blood 

George  Raifisf  ord 

John  Crick 

1589 

James  Wilkinson 

l6t3 

Lawrence  W^iCls 

Abtaliam  Vtntris 

William  Bayley 

1590 

Stephen  Ball 

I6I3 

Richard  Truman 

William  Harpoll 

Thomas  Cooper 

1591 

Edward  Hensman 

I6I4 

Robert  Maine 

Nicholas  Brcokea 

Edward  Collis 

1593 

Roger  Highman 

I6IS 

Henry  Todd 

Edward  Mercer 

Richard  NichaU 

IS93 

Roger  Pendleton 

t6i6 

Roger  Sergent 

Robert  Babbington 

Tobic  Coldwell 

MM 

561 


563 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


n 


I6I7 

Roger  Wilkinson 

1641 

Jonathan  Whist  on 

Abraham  Mynon 

John  Holmes 

161 8 

Williain  Laves 

1643 

Richard  Rands 

John  Herbert 

Matthew  Silsby 

i6ig 

Edward  Thorogood 

1643 

William  Selby 

Richard  Chapman 

John  Selby 

1690 

John  Bott 

1644 

Henry  Lee 

Samuel  Smith 

John  Twigden 

1631 

William  Knight 

1645 

Daniel  Symonds 

Thomas  Ball 

Edward  Collis 

1633 

Heniy  Silesby 

1646 

Roger  Williams 

William  Brookes 

Lawrence  Woolaaton 

1633 

Christopher  Saunders 

1647 

John  Friend 

John  GifFard 

Thomas  Cowper 

1624. 

Simon  Eynes worth 

164S 

Henry  Stratford 

Richard  Fowler 

Thomas  Collins 

1635 

Nathaniel  Ben  bow 

1649 

John  Parr 

Thomas  Judkin 

William  Spicer 

1626 

George  Crick 

1650 

John  Ball 

John  Scriven 

John  Welford 

1638 

Thomas  Pindleton 

1651 

Edward  Chadwi^ 

William  Collis 

John  BradfieM 

1639 

William  Rainsford 

1653 

James  Woolaston 

Edward  Burgojrne 

John  Steward 

1630 

John  Pindleton 

>fi53 

John  Atterbuty 

John  Prior 

Joseph  Hensman 

163 1 

Thomas  Collins 

'654 

Samuel  Poole 

Samuel  Martin 

Richard  Massingbeid 

1633 

William  Holman 

1655 

William  Moore 

Joseph  Sergeant 

John  Ventris 

1633 

William  Smith 

1656 

William  Spencer 

John  Smith 

Thomas  Stevens 

1634 

Robert  Hejes 

1657 

Robert  Coles 

William  Sergeant 

John  Howes 

1635 

Francis  Rush  worth 

1658 

Thomas  Judldns 

John  Smart 

Samuel  Herbert 

1^6 

George  God  man 

1659 

William  Scarborosgh 

Peter  Whailey 

Thomas  Sergeant 

1637 

Benoni  Caldwell 

1660 

Robert  Cockrayne 

John  Spicer 

John  Ivory 

1638 

Henry  Hill 

t66i 

William  Vaughan 

John  Cole 

John  Woolston 

1639 

John  Bryan 

1663 

John  Clarke  (d^oMdJ 

Edward  Cooper 

Samuel  Benbow  (iepc: 

1640 

Martin  Tomkins 

Francis  Pickmer 

Henry  Spriggs 

Lawrence  TomkiM 

APPENDIX. 

sc 

i663 

Thoma3  Atterbuij 

1686 

Richard  Clifford 

Robert  Addis 

Christopher  Poyner 

1664 

Edward  Parker 

1687 

Richard  Saunders  (deposed) 

Ralph  CaldweU 

Henry  Woolston  (deposed) 

1665 

Jobo  Somera 

Henry  Lee 

Richard  Eborall 

Jeremy  Friend 

idfifi 

Walter  Stamford 

i<iR8 

Thomas  Claridge  (deposed) 

Waiter  Boddington 

Edward  Hitlier  (deposed) 

1667 

Theophiius  Wibon 

John  Fowler 

Thomas  Whithorn 

Thomas  Dust 

1668 

Edward  Knighton 

1689 

John  Hoare 

William  Else 

Edward  [vory 

lA^ 

William  Wallis 

1690 

Thomas  Brafield 

Edward  Ivory 

John  Wallis 

1670 

George  Rowell 

169 1 

John  Whithorn 

John  BidHtes 

John  Selby 

1671 

William  Agutter 

1693 

John  Clarke  jun. 

James  Green 

Richard  Med  bury 

1673 

Heniy  Flaxney 

"693 

Thomas  Tuck  well 

Robert  Ives 

William  Shepherd 

1673 

Bartholomew  Manning 

1694 

John  King 

Charles  Lyon 

Thomas  Clifford 

1674 

Daniel  Poole 

1695 

John  Herbert 

Nicholas  King 

Lewis  Martin 

167s 

John  Parr 

1696 

John  Burkitt 

Samuel  Short 

John  Bradshaw 

1676 

Edward  Ward 

1697 

Francis  Battin 

Robert  Ives  jun. 

George  Rowell 

1677 

Richard  White 

1698 

Edward  Tredder 

Robert  Styles 

Henry  Osmond 

1678 

Paul  Burchier 

1699 

John  Manning 

Jonathan  Peake 

John  Bay  ley 

1679 

John  Lucas 

1700 

Daniel  Cockerill 

John  Selby 

James  Hackleton 

1680 

Richard  Buckingham 

1701 

John  Agutter 

Richard  Ward 

Walter  Cockerill 

1681 

Henry  Jeffcutt 

1702 

Francis  Green ough 

Samuel  Clifford 

William  Pheasant 

1683 

Jonathan  Warner 

1703 

William  Green 

William  Pettitt 

Thomas  Clarke 

1683 

Thorn  39  Chad  wick 

1704 

Nicholas  Plowman 

Robert  Saunders 

John  Clarke  (grocer) 

1684 

John  Oldham 

170S 

John  Eakins 

William  Burt 

Henry  Woolston 

168s 

Edward  Bay  ley 

1706 

Thomas  Peach 

George  Hayes 

Samuel  Plackett 

MM  2 

APPENDIX. 

1753 

Stamford  Farrin  jun. 

1776 

William  Balaam 

Richard  Morris 

Edward  Coz 

»7S4 

Richard  Meacock 

1777 

Charles  Smith 

William  Pajme 

John  Mollis 

»75S 

Henry  Cranwell 

1778 

Thomas  Dickenson 

William  Steward 

John  Potter 

'756 

Valentine  Cook 

1779 

Thomas  Scriven 

Samuel  Wainwright 

William  Francis 

1757 

William  Sutton 

1780 

Clarke  Hillyard 

Joseph  EastoD 

Charles  Balaam 

1758 

John  Hollis 

17S1 

John  Lacy 

Solomon  Ash  by 

William  Marshall 

1759 

Joseph  Elston 

1783 

James  Brown 

Simon  Col  lis 

Samuel  Stanton 

1760 

William  Peake 

1783 

James  Miller 

Robert  Trasler 

Hill  Gudgeon 

1761 

John  Dawes 

1784 

Thonias  Johnson 

John  Clarke 

Thomas  Smith 

176a 

Richard  Fox 

1785 

Samuel  Treslove 

Richard  Beat 

Richard  Meacock 

1763 

Samuel  Swinfen 

1786 

John  Segary 

William  Davis 

Joseph  Edge 

1764 

Samuel  Sturgess 

1787 

Thomas  Hodgkinsoo 

George  Sanders 

William  Lockett 

1765 

Thomas  Swan 

178S 

Thomas  Hall 

Martin  Lucas 

John  Matthew  Hopkins 

1766 

Thomas  Britten 

1789 

John  Chambers 

John  Edwards 

William  Cook 

1767 

William  Gibson 

1790 

Jeremiah  Briggs 

John  Newcombe 

William  Ager 

176S 

Henry  Woolley 

1791 

Benjamin  Goodman 

Edward  Kirby 

James  Cliff 

1769 

Henry  Duke 

1793 

Edward  Wood 

Henry  Thompson 

John  Harris 

1770 

William  Kin^ 

1793 

Timothy  Chapman 

Edward  Cole 

Francis  Shaw 

1771 

Thomas  Chambers 

1794 

George  Osbom 

Robert  Lucas 

Samuel  Holt 

177a 

Richard  Mills 

1795 

George  Osborne 

William  Bagley 

Samuel  Holt 

>773 

James  Sutton 

1796 

Francis  Osbom 

William  Chamberlain 

Thomas  Taylor 

1774 

Robert  Billson 

"797 

Thomas  Catterne 

William  Thompson 

John  Gibson 

'775 

William  Woolston 

1798 

John  Fletcher 

James  Clarke 

William  Birdsalt 

565 


APPENDIX. 

IS63 

Thomas  Somerton 

1613 

Henry  Chadwick 

MSH 

John  Danbrooke 

James  Mercer 

«56S 

Symon  Stone 

1614 

Henry  Chadwick 

1566 

Richard  Watts 

James  Mercer 

1567 

Henry  Clarke 

1615 

Henry  Chadwick 

1568 

.     .     . 

John  Danbye 

1569 

Thomas  Craswell 

1616 

Thomas  Potter 

1570 

WillMm  Merry 

Thomas  Cowper 

157 1 

William  BradReld 

1617 

Thomas  Potter 

157a 

Oliver  Fell 

Thomas  Cowper  jun. 

•573 

Christopher  Broughton 

1618 

Thomas  Potter 

"574 

Lavrence  Ball 

Thomas  Cowper  jun. 

1619 

Thomas  Patter 

1581 

George  Brads  ha  w« 

Thomas  Cowper  juru 

15S3 

Nicholas  Parker 

1630 

Thomas  Cowper  jun. 

1583 

Robert   Randes 

William   Knight 

1584 

Robert   Dukes 

■621 

John  Harbert 

1585 

Christopher  Rawson 

Henry  Sillesbyc 

1586 

1622 

John  Harbert 

1587 

Richard  Wattes 

William  Knight 

1588 

1623 

John  Harbert 

1589 

William  Borrowe 

William  Knight 

1590 

Thomas  Potter 

1624 

William  Knight 

»59' 

.     . 

Thomas  Ball 

1592 

Henry  Holled 

1625 

William  Knight 

1593 

Hugh  Coles 

Thomas  Ball 

1594 

Henry  Chadwick 

1626 

Thomas  Ball 

1595 

Thomas  Judkyn 

Symon   Einsworth 

1596 

Richard   Woollaston 

1627 

Christopher  Saunderson 

"597 

Robert   B.ibington 

Symon   Einsworth 

1598 

Edward   Hunter  (taylor) 

1628 

Christopher  Saunderson 

1599 

Abraham  Ventris  (malster) 

Symon   Einsworth 

1629 

Christopher  Saunderson 

1607 

Henry  Chadwick 

Symon  Einsworth 

James   Mercer 

1630 

Christopher  Saunderson 

itioS 

Henry  Chadwick 

Symoo  Einsworth 

James  Mercer 

1631 

Symon  Einsworth 

1609 

Henry  Chadwick 

William  Collis 

James  Mercer 

1632 

Symon   Eini«orth 

1610 

Henry  Chadwick 

William  Collis 

James  Mercer 

i633 

Symon   Eynsworth 

itiii 

James  Mercer 

William  Collis 

Henry  Chadwick 

"634 

Symon  Einsworth 

161 2 

Henry  Chadwick 

William  Collis 

James  Mercer 

"535 

Thomas  Judkyn 
William  Collins 

567 


-=       »B*  ;:i. 


apr 


^H                                            ^70                           NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH    ; 

RECORDS.             ■ 

^^H                                                    17S1    Junes  Sutton 

1799 

Thamaj  Ta/lor        1 

^^^H                                                            17SJ     Janrn  Sullan 

tSoo 

Samuel  Holt              1 

'^^M                                                    1783    John  Lacy 

i&sr 

tticlurd  Sain*       ■ 

'^^H                                                     17^    Jo)i>i  Lsc; 

l902 

Rjchanl  ScnV'ca         H 

^^H                                                            1785      (•'fSDou   Havies 

1803 

John   Ftdcber            1 

^^H                                                            17S6     Trincej  Hftrcs 

iSa4. 

]tiiin.  FLeicher          1 

^^H                                                     17S7    Jam«s  Millet 

i«03 

josba;^  Coocfa            ■ 

'                                                        178S    James  Miller 

ifiofi 

Luke  Kenhav          fl 

1789    James   Miller 

1S&7 

WilUam   DoakU;     1 

1790    Ja.mes  Miller 

1808 

William   Dunklej 

,                                                               1791      Thomai  Scri»«ft 

1S09 

MarEiuiluke  Newtf 
MarnuilulK  Newt)}  J 
John  Shongrare 

il                                                     >793    ThoFiuit  Sicriran 

1 810 

M                                                    1793    JoliD  Segarv 

181 1 

'W                                                    179*    jchB  Scgwy 

1S13 

Jiphn    Siit9rt|>i<a*e 

I                                                            '795     j"^^"   Sejfiry 

igf3 

Charle*  Whilwatth 

1                                                      1796    John  Match,cw  HopUiu 

1814 

ChaHea  Whtiworth 

H                                                            1797     FraaCis  Osbdme 

tftlStoiSsg  Ald«rrTUii  Stom 

T                                                      1798    George  OBbome 

iSjotoiSjs    Hugh  Hifgini 

J                                                                    LIST 

OF 

TOWN     CLERKS. 

H                                                            [  rJt#  JirsI  fottr  ar*  fnmt 

d*tds. 

tkt  rtst  /n>n  Ikt  booki  «f  tk*  cerftintia 

[M                                                            1321      WiJIUm  tie  Burg^o 

1657 

Hatton.  Firmer 

II                                                     1396    Thdniiks  Abowen 

t66o 

Jobn  Fo>iier 

Ifl                                                                    I460     Ji^tin.  Tovice«t«t 

t663 

Henry  Lee 

II 

^^^^^^^^^^^^^K                  1471     John  Lxundcn 

i68d 

Anthony  Plant 

1512  John  PrentM 

1  ^.f-  |iihri    S  i\ln- 

i.igj  GfiT^i-  C.'Ulvvi:!! 

I<'\^  Ti);i;  IS   l.\i!ii""i'li 

1(154  Ti-m[u«t    l.\iLike 


690  Henrv   Lee   fre-clectd) 

1705  Getiri^t.'    Rowell 

17^5  John   Jcvps 

177J  ThtuLi^iiJ  IS    leyes 

lS_;-  |i,hii    H'.:i-i;;.tTi 

iS~,j  John    l.-tf,Ty 

it^x)  Willi  Kii    Sl•..^ll-^l:'.h 


i,lSr     OF     TOWN     STl'lWARDS. 


].:05  ^^  illui:]]    Mk>r\'iri 

Illii  \\':\U  nil    dc    HiirtLin 

1,14^  k.iljiii  ilt>   li,p--rL>ti 

1371  Ri.>l>LT[    S:!i:hi)r|.ie 

I4vu  Willi  111!    M  luvii 

14_li)  Gtiiriji-   Si-;v.!i 

1470  M  irlifi    Wi'Viiini 

141)7  GoolTr.v    lliMolibv 

r^'Hj  John    Urn  liirj 

1502  John    Hronki-'  jun, 

[620  WilliJiii    Uroukc 


"■(■mil J ![(/*■'  '>.i;«    .'■!-■   .'■>  -'is   •>'"    ;•!(■  1".^''/ 

?  Kihti    R.M.iin^ 

16.14  Uoben     Wn.iiif.ini 

1654  Willi  ini    K,,-'i:vn 
I  lili^  1  Ifnrv    R.--i;'.  .n 
l6~*-i  Richard    H  irris 

1655  Frjncis    Rtjidinj; 
1702  l.ihn    Rii^t.- 
1712  l.ihn   Sl.i.ikt"* 

?  l.'hn    Kowell 

[768  Wilii.im    M  irkh.lm 

1776  lohn    M.irkh.im 


APPENDIX. 


57» 


LIST    OF    THE    SERJEANTS-AT-MACE, 
OR    MAYOR'S    SERJEANTS. 


15C7  Junes  Thackeray 

1589  John  Glover 

1608  Edward  Smith 

1647  Simon  Einswortb 

1653  John  Coie 

1657  Henry  Lee 

1668  Henry  Lee  jun. 

1689  Matthew  Barnes 

1703  Nicholas  King 

171s  William  Barcole 

1791  Nicholas  Stratforde 

LIST    OF    THE    TOWN 


157a 

ifiofi 

Simon  Hodf^kyn 
Thomas  Coles 

1636 

1658 

? 

—  Appletree 
George  Marshall 
Thomas  Peedle 

1696 

t 

John  Boone 
Brian  Rush  worth 

1706 

Daniel  Sanders 

1739 

John  Moore 

1795 

Brian  Alliston 

173s 

Walter  Cockerel) 

1743 

Thomas  Stuart 

1766 

Joseph  Satchwell 

1776 

Keeling  Williamson 

1791 

Samuel  Wainwright 

1799 

John  Wright 

1801 

Charles  Balaam 

1S30 

John  Alliston 

ier; 

5    OR    bellmen, 

1718 

Thomas  Hanson 

? 

Benjamin  Farrin 

"745 

Robert  Moore 

f 

Samuel  Foulkes 

1750 

Robert  Cox 

1777 

John  Smith 

1785 

John   Roberts 

LIST    OF    MASTERS    OF    THE    FREE 
GRAMMAR    SCHOOL. 


1.05 

Mr.  Thackaray 

1733 

John  Clarke 

1584 

Mr.  Saunderson 

1748 

Richardson  Wood 

1607 

Simon   Wastell 

1764 

W.  Williams 

163a 

Daniel  Rogers,  M.A. 

1765 

Samuel  Rogers 

1641 

Mr.  Martin 

1769 

Thomas  Woolley 

1642 

Mr.  Goodricke 

1797 

John  Stoddart 

1646 

Ferdinando  Archer,  M.A. 

1837 

Charles  Cut  bush 

1696 

Robert  Styles 

■4  Jd 


=.— CI-   ■c"-.*  ^a  ;*  ;=^  iQa  259.  *7i. 
?.^--    :^"r    ^    ^^-^    J7D.  J74, 


INDEX. 


579 


Bnrgh,  Waiter  de,  549 
Burgins,  Edward,  568 
Borgo,  John  de,  556 

„       William  de,  68,  144,  556,  570 
Bunoyne,  Edward,  563 
Borce's  Central  Armoury,  147 
Bnrkitt,  John.  563 
Boricigh  House,  405.  471 
Bunam,  William  laa 
Bnmby,  Mr.,  laz 
BniTowes,  Mr.,  188 

„         Thomas,  461 
Barrows,  William,  449 
Btut,  Wiliiam,  553.  563,  564 
Button  Latimer,  36a,  391 
Bmton  Lazen,  330 
Burton,  Mr.,  58 

„      Thorn  aa,  361 
Burton-on- Trent,  14a 
Bnrwell,  Sir  George,  499 
Bushel  Measure,  194 
Butchers,  The,  280-6,  503 
Butchers'  Stalls   (or  Row),  49,  60,  aSi, 

384-6,296.367,379,517 
Butler,  John,  550.  559 
ButUer,  R<«er.  550,  559 

„       William,   184 
Button  makers,  314 
Bycheno,  John,  341 


Cabbages,  Sale  of,  190 

Calais,  133 

Caldecott,  John,  205,  501-3 
„         Thomas,  1 12 

Call  vers,  451 

Calvesholme,  317,  368 

Calvin's  Catechism,  386 

Cambridge,  73,  194,  444,  S35-6 

Camden,  146 

Camera,  56 

Campden,  John  de,  198 

Camperdown,  4S6 

Canals,  543-3 

Candles,  174,  481,  483 

CanterbufT,  73.  121,  444 

Canterbury  Pilgrims,  a63 
„  Water,  363 

Canvas,  124 

Cappe  Lane,  IS4-5.  Si? 

Caraemaker,  Adam  le,  167 
Ivctta,  157 

Candlemass,  394 

Carl,  Mr.,  45 

Carlton,  George,  183 

Carmelite  Friars,  520-8, 528 

Carr,  John,  407,  417 

„     Slowick,  39,  554,  564 
„    Thomas,  411-12,553,  564 

Carter,  John,  559 

Carpeaters,  505 

Cartwright,  Thomas,  500 

William,  364,  379 


Carvell,  Robert,  160 

„        William,  560 
Gary,  John,  460 
Castell,  James,  4a,  555 

Mr.,  SI  I 
Castile,  King  of,  147 
Castle  Aahby,  107,  1 10 
Castle  Bells,  66 
Castle,  James,  566 
Castle  Hills,  154,  361 

„     Mills.  59 

„     Orchard,  361 

„     Street,  517 
Catechisms,  358 
Cattern,  Mr.,  55 
Catteme,  Thomas,  565 
Catlyn,  Robert,  308,  397 
Catteworth,  John,  556 
Cattle,  215-29,  226-28 
Cattle  Market,  188-190 
Catworth,  William,  556 
Caudetl,  Jobn,  458-9 
Caudron,  John,  556 
Cauldwell  Slade,  165 
Cave,  Roger,  390 

„     Sir  Thomas,  44 
Caysho,  Henry  de,  549, 556 
Philip  de,  144,  549 
Chadwell,  Henry,  290 
Chadwick,  Edward,  169,  563 

Henry,  414,  446,  553,  567,  561 

Mr.,  433 

Thomas,   449,  553,  569,  561, 

563 
„  Valentine,  323 

Chain,  Mayor's,  41-2 
Chamberlains,  56-67,  31 1-13, 318, 313, 335, 

373-3 
Chamberlain's  Accounts,  7,  8 
„  Books.  3 

„  Silver  Key,  66-7 

Chamh«rlain,  Edward,  559 
„  James,  566 

Walter,  559 
William,  375,  5S4,  565 
Chamberlayn,  Andrew,  375 
John,  5S4 
„  William,  124,  184 

Chambers,  Andrew,  566 

„  Richard,  64,  333 

Chancery  Clerks,  43a 
Chandler,  Thomas,  557 
Chapman,  Benjamin,  554,  564 

John,  136,401,410,564 
„         Richard,  562 
„  Timothy,  565 

„         Thomas,  458 
Chap  woman,  138 
Charities,  58,  339-380 
Charles,  Archduke,  4S5 
Charles  I.,  105-6,  109,  113,  143,  340,  376, 
334,339.438,435-451.471. 
496.539 


Cid 


Tsr^  S.  -7.  :?t  LJi    ^^  =ii 


-ix-s  _v- 


Cad 


Cxi 
Cxi 
Cki 

Cuci 


Cjuf 


INDEX. 


581 


Collis  (Colles),  Edward,  552.3,  561,  56a, 
568 

Henry,  169 
Hugh,  449 

tohn,  553 
Ir.,  444,  498 
Simon,  565 
Thomas,  551 
William,  552,  562,  567 
Colne,  93 
Coly,  John,  557 
Colyntre,  John,  556 
Commendali,  George,  158 
Commercial  Street,  518 
Common  Labour,  534-5 
Commons,  61-2,  215-29,  354,  364,  367-8 
Commons,     House    of,    83-4,     104,     HO, 

493-513 
Common  Prayer,  Book  of,  386 
Communion,  Holy,  386-7,  391,  394-6 
Comniunion  Plate,  416-17 
Communicants'  Farthings,  419 
Comptoo,  General,  499-501 
Hon.  George,  499 
„        Lord.  S,  1 10,  181 
Sir  Charles,  498 
Conant,  Dr.,  45,  47,  401,  404-17 
Conduit,  58,  61,65,  '7'.  1781  252-63,  370, 

518 
Conduit  Masters,  49 
Confectioners,  394 
Confession  of  Faith,  386,  389-90 
Consistory  Court,  394 
Constable,  Philip,  357,  365,  542,  554,  566 
Constables,  49,  50,  139,  141 
Constantinople,  537 
Conventicle  343 
Conyngrye,  130 
Cooch,  John,  122 

„      Joshua,  554.  566,  570 
„      Mr.,  55 
Cook  (Cooke),  Francis,  255 
„     George,  511-12 
„    James,  205 
„     Lady,  227 
„     Lawrence,  342 
„     Lord,  228 
„     Mr.  Justice,  244 
„     Tempest,  70,  570 
„     Thomas,  138.566 
„     Valentine,  371,  565 
„     William,  85.  166,  371,  565 
Cooper,  Edward,  457,  459,  562,  568 
„      Henry,  65,  168,  322,  378,  564 
..      John,  55a 

„      Thomas,  285,  457,  459,  552,  561 
Coopers,  505 
Copeland,  John,  373 
Corby,  197 

Cordon,  Adam  de,  198 
Cordwainers.  505 
Corkcutten,  505 
ComGeld,  George,  566 


Cornfords  Holme,  162 
Corn  Laws,  509 
Comhill,  50,  197,  518 
Corn  Market,  1S8,  191 
Com  Measures,  195 
Cornish,  John,  373 
Cornwall,  535 
Cornwall,  Earl  of,  198 
Coroners,  14,  16,  49,  112-14,  nS 
Corporation  Schools,  356-60 
Correction,  Houses  of,  176-81,  225 
Cony,  the  Sexton,  417 

„    Anthony,  460,  463 

„     Robert,  461 

„    Thomas,  557 
Cosgrave,  340 
Cotenhall,  Ralph  de,  556 
Cotesbroke,  Adam  de,  549 

„  Simon  de,  493,  556 

Cotton  End,  66,   140,   159,  164,216,240, 

244.  307.  332.  433.  438^ 
„       Marsh,  59,  164-5 
„      Mills,  524 
Coubon,  Richard,  404 
Courteenhall,  106 
Court  Leet.  115-16,  141 
Court  of  Hustings,   103,  113,  118-19,324 
„         Orphans,  1 19-20,  531 
„        Record,  1 16-18 
Covenant,  The,  440-2,  475 
Covenant  Servants,  321-4 
Coventry,  14,  46,  107,  168,  345-9,  378 
Covington,  Frederick,  555 
Cowgate,  431,518 

Cow  Lane,  157,  166,  307,  362,  368,  518-19 
„    Meadow,  62-3,  65,  215-29,  240,  263, 
26s,  329,  368, 431 
Cowmucke  Hill,  519 
Cowper,  Bishop,  344 
„      John,  410 

„      Thomas,  189,  428,  552,  567,  56a 
Cox  (Coxe),  Anthony,  460 
„  Edward.  375,  46a,  541,565 
„  John,  418-19,  449,  457,  459,  566 
„  Joseph,  566 
„  Mr.,  62,  64,  503 
„  Robert,  87,  333,  S71 
Coyne,  John,  324 
Crackbetle  Lane,  374,  519 
Craddocke,  Edmund,  7a 
Crane  Inn,  306 
Cransley,  John,  558 
Cranwell,  Henry,  403,  565 
Crasswell,  Thomas,    156,  360,  363,  404, 

428,  444,  567 
C  real  on,  285 
Creighton,  Bishop,  9 
Cresswell,  Thomas,  374 
Crewe,  Mr.,  497 

„      Thomas,  495 
Crick,  Edward,  457-8 
„     George,  562 
„     John,  76,  561 

O    O 


5«2 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUl 


Crick,  Samuel,  457  ^"^ 

„     Mr-,  MSS,.365.  502  „ 

Crier,  l9t,S07  Dfl-rfd 

Cri^pe,  Richard.  550,  551,  559  DayJ* 

Cross  Kejs  Inn,  306  Dsvjt 
Crass,  Market,  148,  193-5,  ■*44.  26J,  470,      Davsi 

506-7 
Crooke,  Mr,  Justice,  315 

Cioftiivell,  General,  474  Davis 

Cri-jsse,  Richaid.  S^l  •■ 

Crossfield,  163  Dawe 

Ctusiwell,  Thomas,  552,  560  ■ 

Crouthorpc,  Osberl  At:.  SS^  a 

„              Robert  dc  193  „ 

Crawford,  Simon,  558  n 

Crowley  Fyrlong,  ifia  •  n 

Crown  Jna,  306,  376  11 

Cnidworlli.  William,  556  Day, 

CryTipe,  Mr.,  316  >■ 

Cugeho,  John  de.556  Dajn 

Ciillen,  Lord,  44J  Dcbd 

Cultrt,  Richard.  558  Dwat 

Cumberlanti,  Duke  of,  48(5  Dw, 

Cunoirifhairii  JamciS,  3i  Deini 

Cunnin^ton,  Randall,  5^  i 

Cupola  oF  All  Saints,  4fiS-*  Dela] 

Cume,  Mr,,  544  Delff. 

Curriers,  503  Deljri 

CuHeys.  William,  557  Dent 

Cushion  for  Mayor.  409  Dent 

Customs,  145,  198  Denn 

Customs  of  the  Chuirh.  4'4-iS  '• 

Cucbusli,  Charles,  5*2.  57"  Oe« 

CullLbert,  Edward.  [I3  n 

John   ^ris  ne<xy 

.,         Mr.,  55,  jilj  Denv 

Cutlers,  51)5  Uerb 

Cutis,  LofJ,  -180  Dftb 

Dern 

nuiiifj,  Kk-hrird,  xni;)  Dcrn 

D.illitij^l'jii,  4^^^,  jNij,  •■iiJ.  -;ijH  Dej'K 

D.'iiifLinl,   John,  560  Diclii 

lJ.1IT.I.,rli:|    1  Ji.l  Uirki 

[)<iiiliraltf,  Julin,  i;,T.  jii7.s'Jo.  .'i'i?  Dii.-k 
D:iiih;-,  Julin,  ^54.  414,  4,17,  4y'i.  55~'i  S*"". 

5f'7  liij^'i 

Mr,,  21H  Digg 

UfIiiii^!,  |i>Iiii,  ig'^  Di>ni 

,,      Jijst-ph,  J7M,  .Stl4  llixi;, 

IXiiivers,  !>r.,  245  null.-. 

„         Mc,,_^4,  iri-iJ,  Ji'l.  54-  li^idi 

„         Sir  S,imiitl.  44.-,   474 

D.irbj'i  J.ilin,  .Vi7  OiJili 

I,       Ttinfn.i'i    ^5".  PS'*  l^i'il' 

„       Willi.-im,  ji;.^  Biwlf 

n.irltnru  Jli(i!i,  jlig  "'  Dti 

flirliiii,'.  Phili|i.  ,!,f^;  1)111(1 

H.nini-,  ]i>liii,  -.S'f  Df-Iil' 

J).iifi'iiitv,  ii,\,    ii|'iy.4^"  Dom 

D.n'ciiiry,  (iiiiflrry  ilc:,  jijtj  "  Mot 

„     ■    Jiihii,  55S  Duu^ 


INDEX. 


583 


Dovehouse  Close,  154 
Dover,  Henry,  44-7,  76,  448.  457 
Dowbig^n,  Robert,  338 
Downs,  Edward,  178,  225,  324 

„       John,  324 
Dozener,  139-43 
Drabic,  Mary,  136 
Dragon  Inn,  306 
Drakes,  45^ 
Draper,  Thomas,  558 
Drapers'  Inventories,  124-28 
Drapery,    186,  243,   247,   260,  267.  270, 
277.  298,  363,  368,  370,  471,  507,  519 
Drayton,  John,  371 
Dress  of  the  Assembly,  19,  32,  95-9 
Drum  Lane.  306, 374,  519 
Drummers,  92,  476,  480,  483-6,  505 
Drums  Inn,  306 
Drury,  Edward,  43 

„      Richard,  449 
Dryden,  John,  362,  366 
„       Sir  Heniy,  339,  344 
„       School,  357 
Dryffield,  William,  557 
Ducic  and  Drake  inn,  306 
Duckett,  232 
Ducking  Stool,  19S 
Dudley,  Sir  William,  474,  499 
Duke,  Henry,  375,  565 
Dukes,  Robert,  153,  567 

„      William,  308 
Dukeson,  Robert,  139,  160,  449 
Dunbrooke,  John,  449 
Duncan,  Admiral,  4S1 
Dunckley,  James,  566 

John,  192,  366,  369,  373.  566 
Peter,  403,  457,  459,  564 
Thomas,  457,  459,  478 
William,  566,  570 
Dundalk,  295 
Dunkley,  Mr.,  55,  64 
Dunning,  Mr.,  502 
Durham,  Robert,  463 
Dust,  Thomas,  563 

,.     Richard,  448-  457.  459 
Duston,  217,  226.29,  341.  353,  368 
Dybforde,  John  de,  556 
Dychers  (Dychurch)  lane,  157,  370,  519 
Dyngele,  Hospital  of,  198 

Eagle  and  Child  inn,  306 
Eagle,  Francis,  64 
Eakinsjjohn,  563 
Eales,  Goodman,  460,  463 
Earle,  John,  480 
Earls  Barton,  305,  376 
Easton  Joseph,  565 

„      Joshua,  375 

„      Maudit,  104,  361,  452 

„      Nathaniel,  553,  569,  564 

„      Richard,  285 

„      Widow,  176 
East  Ward,  58,  61-2,  139,   140,  156,  439, 
446.  456,  460 


Eaton,  Thomas,  566 
Ebrall,  Jonathan,  449 

„     Richard,  35,  37,  60,  559,  563 
Ecton,  Mrs.,  59 
Edmay,  John,  558 
Edmund,  St.,  Brays,  363 

„        „     Church  of,  430,  43S 
Edmund's,  St ,  End,  241 ,307, 363, 368,  376 
Edmunds,  Henry,  345 
Edward  the  Confessor,  142 

„       I.,  53,  143,  145, 170,  275,  437, 449, 

467.493 
„      n.,  131,467,  519 
„       111.16.  147,449,467 
„      IV.,  16,  95,  253 
,.      VI..  68.  176.  177.333,495 
,.      James,  157  ■ 
Edwards.  John,  558.  569,  565 
Eggliston,  Francis,  63 
Egylle,  John,  558 

Einsworthe,  Simon,  79,  84,  567,  571 
Elborough,  John,  191,  457 
Elder  Stompe,  161 
Elephant  and  Castle  Inn,  306 

„       Lane,  306 
Elizabeth,  15,  52,  68,  95,  104,  113-14,  116, 
122,  124,  153,  177,  182,  189,  194, 
241,  263,  375,  313,  335,  383,  385, 
419.  431.  432-3,  468,  503.  537 
„       Princess,  474 
Election  of  Mayors,  531 
Elkington,  Mr.,  61,  359-60 
Mrs.,  58 
„  Richard.  308,  361 

„  Ellen,  Frederic,  555 

Eltys,  Thomas,  130 
Elliott,  William,  560 
Elm  Trees,  153, 160 
Elmer,  Edwart,  344,  360,  373 
Elmers'  Dam,  i^ 
Else.  Mr.,  37,  59,  60,  64 

,.    William,  44,  47,  401,  553.  563.  568 
Elston,  Joseph,  554,  565 
Ely,  Bishop  of,  144 
Elyot,  William,  53 
Elys.  William,  556 
Emerton,  Joseph,  291,  462 

..       William,  297 
Empson,  Richard.  103 
Emston.  Richard,  322 
Erasmus'  Paraphrase,  415 
Escbeator.  48.  1 13,  131,  33a,  531 
Escheats,  Book  erf,  133 
Essex,  Earl  of,  438,  445 
Estridge,  George,  560 
Eugene,  Prince,  4^ 
Evesham,  Thomas,  557 
Evans,  John,  345,  361,  363,  461 
„      Richard,  373 
„     Thomas,  456,  458.  461 
Exeter.  73,  121,  123,  444 
Earl  of,  443-3,  452 
„      Marquis  of,  471 
BxciH  Bill,  joo 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH 


Excisemen,  505 

Flanders 

I- ye.  88 

Flaxdrea 

Eyers,  Thomas,  419 

Flaxney, 

Eynsworth,  Henry,  561 

11 
Flaxland 

Fleece  Ii 

Fabian,  William,  403.  554.  5^4 

Fleetwo< 

Fadge,  204 

Fairfax,  Lord,  336,  439 

i> 

Flesh  an 

Fairs,  40,  53,  92,  )86,  192,  277,  282,  297 

Flesher, 

FaLry  (Fary),  William,  64.  89 

Fletcher, 

Fat^-on  Inn,  306 

Flower, 

Farttbrother,  Thomas,  216,  433 

,, 

Fnrmers,  S4S 

Flying  I 

Farmer,  Halt  on,  443,  570 

Foot  Me 

Mr.,  45 

368 

,,       Sir  William,  36,  407 

Folwell, 

Farrel,  Thomas,  560 

Ford,  D 

Farren,  Peter,  394 

Foreste, 

Fairin,  Benjamin,  87,  571 

"  Forest 

.,      Stamford,  554.  569,  564.  365 

Forge  Ii 

Farriers,  505 

Fortifyii 

Fart  hinge,  George,  140 

Fosbury 

Farthings,  Communicants',  419 

"  Foser,' 

„           Local,  211 

Foulkes 

Fauconer,  Hugh,  556 

Foundei 

Fawcelt  (Fawsitt),  John,  403,  553,  564 

"  Fourtj 

FeaStings,  28,  3I,  33,  36,  39,  40-3,  66,  185 

Fowler, 

Fetdale,  163,  165 

Fee -farm,  52,  zoS-io 

11 

Fell,  Joan,  158 

„    Oliver,  397,  567 

II 

Fox,  lol 
Foxalls, 

Fellmongers,  505 

Fennell  Well,  519 

"  Foyne 

Fcnnis,  Mr.,  45 

France, 

Fermon,  William,  499 

Francis, 

Ferris,  William,  558 

», 

Fetter  Lane,  520 

Francisi 

"  Fifteenths,"  473-4 

Frank-f 

Filbert  Tree,  154,  160 

Fraser, 

Kinch-Hatton,  Mr.,  210 

Frear,  A 

Fire.  240-53 

Freare, 

.,    Thegreat,  3,43,  244.51,354,404 

Frederi( 

„     Buclcets,  63,  241-44 

Freema] 

„     Hooks,  242-52 

II 

.,     Engine,  252 

n 

Flfih  Lane  {or  street),  176,  286,  370 

t% 

Fishe,  William,  185 

H 

Fisher,    ohn,  140,  169,  308 

U 

Francis,  1 15,  552,  561 

Robert,  561 

» 

Thomas,  59,  61 

l> 

„        William,  560 

Freemei 

Fishmongers  and  Fishing,  286-8,  505,  534 

Freemai 

Pitton,  W.  H.,  423 

II 

Fit.!gervase,  Sampson,  S56 

FreeGr 

Fitihenry,  Simon,  198 

350 

R.,  330.  S49 

Fretter, 

Fitshugh,  Thomas,  45,  148,  44S 

Friaries 

Fitrtheobald,  Roger,  549 

Friar  G 

Filrthomas,  William,  549 

Friend 

F'lags,  93-5 

Flag-camers,  93-5, 490 

n 

INDEX. 


585 


Friend,  Mr,  245 
Frith -bork,  141 
Frost,  John,  402 
Fruit  Trees,  153,  160 
Pulberoolc  Furlong,  164 
Fryar,  Thomas,  552,  560 
Fysshe,  William,  558 
Fullers,  The,  218,  388-9 
Fytcher,  William,  322 


Gage,  Mr.,S3.4 
Galleries  at  All  Saints,  410-11 
Galloway,  479 
Gambell,  George,  192 
Game,  Mr.,  170 
Gamekeeper,  287-8 
Gamfield,  John,  205 
Gangy,  William,  427,  549 
Gaol,  61,  172,  174,  176 
Gardeners,  505 
Gardiner,  James,  338 
Garlekmongere,  Adam,  556 
Henry,  549 
Garner,  William,  63 
Garnet,  Richard,  126-27 
Garrison,  The,  540-2 
Garter,  Knight  of,  I  to 
Gas  Street,  516 
Gascony.  535 
Gates,  Town,  427 

„     Edward,  555.  566 

„     William,  555.  566 
Gaunt,  John  of  147 
Gawdern,  Robert,  124,  126 
Geddinglon,  John,  549 
Gent,  Edward,  457-8 
George  I.,  74,  118,485 

„        H..  486 

m.,  122, 145, 486.7 

..      IV.,  489 

inn,  41,   44,  51-3,  64,  14S-9,  306, 
362.   366,   449.   475.   478,   480, 

48a.  505 
John,  366 
„        Row,  306,  526 
„        St.,  187,  277,  282.  296 
George's,  St.  Windsor,  309 

St..  Hall,  157,  i8i,  186,  275 
„         St.,  Leys.  154,  ai6-7,  373,  4*3 
„  St.,  Pence,  304 

Germany,  14 
Getlowe,  John,  560 
Gibbins,  Thomas,  566 
Gibbs,  John,  340 

„      Samuel,  456.  4S9 
Ghent,  483,  525 

Gibson,  Alderman,  174,  367,  369,  379 
„        Edward,  430 
„       John.  39,  55.  375.  5<S4.  5^5 
„       Mr.,  41,  366 

William,  123,  203,  375,  40a,  507, 
554.  5^.  565 


Gifford,  John,  345,  398,  44I,  552,  56a 

„        Mr.,  33,  76,  180,  186,  239,  338 
Giles    William,  554 
„      St.,  Church  of,  15,  138,  157,  170-1, 
238,  261,  306-7,  351,  361.  364, 
370,391,419  433 
„     Street,  58,  157,  176.  241,  266, 
36a,  368.  370,  374,  525.  535 
Gillesbie,  Henry,  169 
Gille«ley,  Henry,  166 
Gillett.  William,  566 
Glatwell,  163-3 
Glayson,  Allan,  556 
Glaziers,  504 
Gloucester,  73 
Glover,  John,  78,  445,  450,  571 

„      William, 558 
Glovers,  217,  262,  289,  296,  298 
Gtovery,  The,  523 
Goat  Inn,  306 
GolHon,  Hugh,  167 
„       Lane.  52a 
„        Pagnel,  167 
„        Richard,  167 
Gobion's  Manor,  6,  59,  166-70,  241,  287, 

368 
Godewyn.  John,  557 
Godfrey,  John,  559 

„        Richard,  559 
Godly,  Henry,  139 
Goffe,  William,  559 
Gold,  Roger,  551 

„     Street,  16,  155.  167,  306.7,  351,  363, 
374,  403.518,522,533 
Golden  Cross  inn,  307 
„      Fleece  Inn,  307 
„       Lion  Inn,  50,  307 
Goldsmith  Hall  Committee,  395,  336-S, 

441 
Goldsmiths,  316 
Goldwyne,  John,  550 
Good,  Thomas,  176 
Gooding,  Thomas,  285,  569,  564 
Goodman,  Benjamin,  565 
George,  562 
„         James,  566 
Goodricke,  Mr.,  354,  571 
Goodwyn,  James,  155 

„         William,  124 
Goosey,  G.  F„  515 
Gostyn,  Richard,  557 
Gootb ridge,  Thomas,  561 
Gow,  Mr.,  407 

Gowrie  House  Conspiracy,  416 
Grace,  Anne,   138 
Grafton,  Sirnon  de,  556 
Graham,  Mr.,  503 
Granborovv,  Francis,  138 
Grant,  Mr.,  59 
Gratwood,  John,  52,  217 
Green  (Greene),  James,  50-1,  553,  568, 

563 
„      John,  183,  561 


5S6 


NORTHAMPTON    flORC 


Green,  Coat  Srhoci,  357,  367,  ^179 

H 

„       Man  inn,  307 

„        Mount   Inn,  307 

Ij 

„      Richafd.  550,  SS9 

» 

„      Slade,  163 

n 

„     Themas,  294,  4112,  560 

h 

.,      Tree  Inn,  307 

William.  136,  558-9,  563 

h 

Gieenborough,  Francis,  569.  5S3 

ti 

Grmiaugh,  Tliomas,  402l  564 

H 

Gregtwy.  Jchn.  549,  557 

„      St-.  Church  pf,  155,  3.51-a,  3! 

h 

56,       H 

383.  398.  420,  433.  516 

a 

„       St,  St««,  351 

^ 

„       Thomas,  403 

■ 

Vincent,  445,  49s 

■ 

Grey  Fruirs.  185.  467,  Sio-I.  524-5 

■ 

Greyhound  Inn,  307 

V 

Griffin  Inn.  307 

« 

Grig&c  John,  549. 
Griraes.  William,  456 

H 

Grimpldby,  5*  374 

Grocers,  5114 

H 

Groom,  Jahn,  555 

Grope   [jne,  157,  519 

Gros&teste,  Bishop,  334 

GTUntbley.  Wiiiiam,  agS 

U 

Grygge.  Willi.-jm,  556 

U 

Gryme,  John,  5^7 

Gudgcan,  HilLjiSlS,  5155 

.,         Mary,  340 
Goidhall  (s«  Town  Hall) 

„         Lon-don,  20C-7 

Guil^ibofijiiigh,  146 

Guripj.nnjpT,  451-3 

H 

Giinpoiidtr  d.iy,  4S1.J 

Gunning,  Sir  Robert,  5111-12 

GuriiL'v,  JusD)]h.  55^ 

1,       '  'litjin.is,  40;,  -^54 

GuMes,  164-^.  242,  -71.  1-^-3 

H 

Gutter  HUl,  164 

St 

Gulteridi;!;,  ThoTti.i-,  i6g 

Guy  uf   Warwlrl;  Inn,  55,  ,107 

Hi 

Guyi',  f-iinnjiid,  154 

H 

Gybl'esniilh,  t(ii 

H; 

Gyles  ("liiiifT,  154 

Hi 

.,      Jc'lii.  557 

Hi 

,.       Mr,,  3S 

Hi 

Gvn,  W.illLT,  55^ 

m 

Gy^elgor,  i^jj 

H; 

H: 

Ha<"liii-li"jn.  J.imcs.  5^3 

H.iddLiii,  l.,iivifni:(^,  S4g 

„        T'hciiiiiis.  4'6i 

HJ 

llriKKor,  Tlii.iii^s,  555 

U: 

H.ilherd^S,  -lj;o-I 

Ha 

H.ilf   .MiiijDi  Inn,  307 

H.I 

n.ilifi*;.  Lurd,  50i.>-2,  5(i5-(1 

11  y!l,  Aldi'rm.in,  5 

,,      |uhn.  35f>,  j&j 

..     Mr,  55 

„     Thomas,  41,  554,  565 

INDEX. 


587 


Haynes,  William,  130,  564 
Head  boroughs,  140 
H^iarne,  Rcitie^rt,  44S 

Helm-dan.  16^ 

Helimet  In*!.  32,  307 

Hcmpdresser5,  504 

Hen  and  Chickens  Inn,  307 

H«ndeley,  John,  557 

Henfrey,  William,  511,  5S4i  5^6 

Henry  I,,  170,  467 

H.,  339.  329,  449.  467 

III.,  170.  437.  467.  531.  533,  528 

IV.,  16,  939,467 

V!.,  16,  83 

VII.,  24.  103,  "2,433.468,493 

VIII.,  95.  333.  383.  4».  4*57.  493 

Prince,  469 

Richard,  403 
Hensman,  Edward,    134,   336,  308,  431, 
469.  473.  553,  561 
John,  445,  469,  551,  553,  560, 

57° 
Joseph,  291,  457,  563 
Mr,  355 
William,  555 
Herd,  William,  550 
Herdsman,  58,  60,  215 
Herdswoman,  333 
Hereford,  «a 
Hermitige,  43a,  523 
Heron,  William.  550 
Hesil  Budge,  1:66 
Hestlrige,  Robert,  245,361 
Hetc,  Mr.,  503 
Heward.  Ralph.  560 

Richard.  559 
Hewlett,  Alderman,  37 
„      Daniel.  554,  566 
„      Joho,  461 
Heslerig,  Sir  Arthur,  540 
Heyford.  153,  161 
Heyrow,  William,  558 
Hickman,  Henry,  495 

John,  503 
Higet,  George,  171 
Higgins,  Hugh,  365,  566,  570 

„        William  Thomas,  555 
Higgs,  William,  50 
Higham,  Roger,  314,  553,  561 

John,  558 
Higlers,  504 
Hill,  Henry,  140,  563 
„    John,  461 
„     Clliiiles,  512 
Nil  liar,  Edward,  136,  563 
HJllieri.  504 
Hillyard,  Cli.rke,  554,  565 

Mr.,  55 
Hilton,  Nicholas,  557 
„       Robert,  159 

..      John.  55'.  559 
Hitchcock,  John,  564 


Hoare,  John,  38,  138,  553.  5^3 

„      Isabell,  340 
Hobbs  Hole,  161-3 
Hobay,  Thomas,  43.  ^5 
Hocknell,  Dr.,  333 

Widow,  343 
Hochsiei.  48  a 
Hodgekin,  ^imon.Sj; 
Hodgkinson,  Thomas,  565 
Hodgskin;:.  Edwaid,  6j 
Hogs,  334-25,  236 
Hogge,  William,  558 
Hog  Herd,  J15,  334-25 
Hog  Market,  154,  1S6.  533 
Hogmarket  Lane,  533 
Hotcot,  350.  364 
Hotdenby  House,  log,  390,  468-71 

„        Goodman,  461 
Holland,  126-37 

Lord,  474 
„       Thomas,  306 
Henry,  561 
Holies,  Richard,  442,  539 
Holleed.  John,  158 

Henry,  567 
Hoi  I  is,  George,  377 

„      John,  565 

„      William.  566 
H  oil  well,  John,  559 
Holman,  Sir  John,  45,  345,  246 

„        William,  562 
Holme  Meadow,  2gi 
Holmes,  John,  158 
Holhead,  John,  j6i 
H<.lly  Tree,    56,  160 
Holt,  Chief  Justice,  317 
„     Mi,  42,  99 
„      Samuel,  511,  565,  570 
Holy  Scpuiirhrc,  Church  of,  98 
Honnor,  Matthew,  4B0 
Hooke,  Richard,  456-7 
Hope,    Mr.   Si    John,  Corporation  Plate, 

74,  83.  95 
Hopkins,  Agnes,  154,  368,  373 
„        Anne,  316 
„        Jonn,  155,  561 

John  Matlhew,  5S4.  565.  . 
.,         Mr.,  58 

Thomas,  122,  124, 131,  372,551, 

560,566 
„         William,  287 
Hopper,  Mr.,  503 
Horn  Book,  358 
Homcastle,  William,  559 
Hor»e'i.  60,  212-21 
HoTsebread,  279 
Horsebreakers,  504 
Horsedealers,  504 
Horsemarket,    16,    186,   367,  307,   36S-9, 

374.  431.  533 
Horseracing,  57,  60,  539-40 
Horseshoe  Lane,  533,  53S 
Horsley,  Robert,  394 


.570 


INDEX. 


589 


Katharine,  St.,  Church  of,  336,  430-t,  516, 

„  Fraternity  of,  161 

„  Hall,  377^,  281 

„  Street,  155-6,  236,  370 

„      Wheel  Inn,  307 
Kajrhner,  Robert,  198 
Keeper,  Richard,  460 
Kempworth,  Mr.,  315 
Kenil worth,  342 
Kerby,  Edward,  460,  554,  569 
Kerr,  Dr.  449 

„     Major,  449 

„     Mrs.,  257 
Kerrick,  John,  338 
Kerrison,  Sir  Edward,  509-10 
Kershalton,  Pentecost  de,  549,  558 
Kershaw,  Luke,  566,  570 
Kettering,  419,  497 
Kenon,  45 

Kejr,  Silver,  of  Chamberlain,  66-7 
Key- bearers,  353 
Key- keepers,  49 
Keyes,  Joseph,  457 
Keys,  4,  5,  56 
Kibworth.  Prothero,  461 
Kightley,  Dr.,  411-12 

John,  34 
Kilsby,  Simon,  55a 
King,  Mr.,  46,  61-3,  401 

„      Nicholas,  80,  571,  463 

„      Robert,  564 

„      Street,  224,  517 

„      Thomas,  569,  564 

„      William.  435,  SS4,  564,  565 
King's  Head  Inn,  307 

„      Lynn,  14,  0 

„       Messenger,  33 

„      Sutton,  299 
Kingston,  Edward,  292 
„        William,  63 
Kingsthorpe,  45,  201,  255,  287,  311,331, 

«     394 

Kingswell    Lane   (Street),    159,    160,  264, 

26e,  307.370, 517-18,  52a,  528,  535 
Kirby,  Edward,  369 

„       Mr,,  420 
Kirkham,  Mr.,  40 
Kirk,  George,  17a 
Kirkland,  John,  31,  172 
Kirkland,  John,  31,  182 
Kirks  haw,  Luke,  554 
Kislingbury,  367,  379 
Kislingbury,  367,  379 
Knaptoft.  168,  537 
Knight  of  Garter,  no 
Knight,  John,  60,  462 

„        Mr.,  396 
Knight,  William,  115,  169,  898-9,361,  S<5a 
Knight  Street,  524 
Knightley,  Richard,  496 

„  Sir  Richard,  242 

„  Thomas,  559 


Knightley,  Valentine,  494 
Knighton,  Edward.  244,  248,  563 

Mr..  43-S 
Knott,  Elizabeth,  203 

„      John,  202 
Knotting,  Richard,  558 
Knolle  Farm,  241 
Kymbold,  Mr,,  459,  481 

„         William,  245,  246,  248 
Kytstalls,  283 
Kyrtlande,  John,  552 


La  Hogue,  479 

Labram,  John,  412,  456,  458 

Labourers,  505 

Labour,  F^ce  of,  63-4 

Lack,  Henry.  298 

Ucy,  John.  263.  375,  570,  505 

Lace  men,  505 

Lacey.  Thomas,  59,  449 

Ladders,  242 

Lady  Bridge,  160 

Lady-day  Fairs,  189,  278 

Lady  Lane,  524 

Lamb  and  Flag,  307 

Lambe,  Sir  John,  238,  391,  395 

„       Richard,  54 
Lamhell,  Samuel,  402 
Lambert,  John,  462 
Lammas  Close,  163 
Lamport,  318 
Lancashire  Cloth,  124 
Lancaster,  194 

,.  Earl  of,  423 

„  Duchy  of,  133,  305-8 

„  Furlong,  163 

„  Herald,  146 

Joseph,  358 
Lancastrians  Schools,  29,  356 
Lancum,  Seaton,  205-7 
Landers,  George,  375,  378 

„        Thorns,  163 
Lane,  John,  183,  358 
,,     Richard,  105-6 
„     William,  406 
Langham,  Sir  James,  245,  497-8 

Sirjohn,  65,34a.  361.3^9 

John,  561 

Mr.,  58,  61 

William,  475 
Langford,  John,  448 
Langham's  Charity,  345,  361,  364 
Langwel!  Hill,  161 
Lantern,  173,  269 

„      Mayor's,  48 
Latham,  Thomas,  130 
Latimer,  Lord,  239 
Laud,  Archbishop,  391,  395 
Launden,  John,  68 

„       Thomas,  460,  463 
Lavender,  Henry,  549 
Laves,  William,  563 

P  P 


^^^^^^^■^          gfn                                                        BOROUGH    RECORDS            ^^H 

^^^^^^^^^1             La«mne«.  St..  Chnrch  ol.  170,  4^01  SaS 

Loe,  John,  166.  !fi6                    ^^^» 

London.  14,  21 .  4&.  5) .  73. 83.  98, 10^  I' 

131.  i33-4<  183.239,334.* 

433. 4481  saa 

^^^^^^^^^^^H            Laiiiruv 

^^^^^^^^^^1             Laur  HouM.  30,  339,  333 

Biabop  of,  391                 ^ 

Way.  164-5                        ■ 

Londondetry,  478                             ^B 

^^^^^^^^^H             Lead.  Chinch  Roof,  423 

Long  Buekfajr.  543 

^^^^^^^^H                       Weight*.  63 

..    John.  104.  133,  tS4.  >8S.  SS>        , 
„     Parliameni.  40<^                       ^H 

^^^^^^^^^^H             Leathor,  133 

^^^^^^^^^^1                             BotHcs.  rjs 

„     WahcT.  467                             ^M 

^^^^^^^^^^H                            Buckets,          953, 

l^ngmtllt  Charlei.5tfS            ^^^| 

^^^^^^^^H                            finccbcs.  3S7 

Lonesitap.  Richard,  461           ^^^H 

^^^^^^^^^H            L«cE<fwafd,  aa,  i7» 

Loiwvilte,  Sir  Jofcn,  saa           ^^^^| 
Lord,  Obadiah.  458                 ^^H 

^^^^^^^^H               „     Hmry.   35,    70.  79,  404,  457,  475, 

Lord*,  Houae  of.  110                ^^^^| 

^^^^^^^H                                    5^3, 303 

Lotithu).  John,  549,  550            ^^^1 

^^^^^^^H                             44-5.  58.  C« 

Lovd),  Arthar.  106-7                        ^| 

^^^^^^^^^H                     Rich.1rd.s9.  4lii.  569 

Mr  ,  369.  393                         ^M 

^^^^^^^^^^^H                                   sOi 

Salathirl.  345.  34<S               ^M 

^^^^^^^^^^H                         72 

Loiraelie.  WilliMin.  159              ^^^H 

^^^^^^^^^^^^H               Leeds,  91 

Loiire,  Arthur,  336                       ^^^^| 

^^^^^^^^H             Leicester,  14,  15.  17,  38,  30,  73. 

Loiticli.  John,  450                     ^^^H 
W.UUav.  348. 459.  Sfit         H 

^^^^^^^H                                soo,  305,  346,  379^  439,  444. 

^^^^^^H 

Loyd,  L«wis,  403                              ^M 

^^^^^^^H                                     335 

Luean,  Locd,  507                              ^H 

^^^^^^^^^^^^H 

Lucas,  JohB,  ^,  563,  569                ^H 

lilanln.  366-7.  51^              ^1 

^^^^^^^^^^^H              I.cnche,  Richard.  557 

^^^^^^^^^^^M              Leonard's, 

Rkhaid,  aSs                            ■ 

^^^^^^^^^^V              Leonud's,  St.,  Farm,  38.  i<3-4.  i66,  366 

Robert.  403,  $^4,  564.  565    fl 

^^^^^^^^V 

Lucv,  John,  554                                 ^M 
LuddiDKior^.  John,  333                   ^M 
Luke,  St.,  FcMt  of,  343                   ^H 

^^^^^^^^^^^                LoDMitd,  St.,  Hwpital  of,  $,  339-33,  4X> 

^^^^^^■^                                     St.,  Stmrt,  536 

^^^^^H                      Ltptn,  339-334 

Lumrnan,  James,  65                              ^H 

^^^^^^^H                       Lewis,  Jeremiah,  414 
^^^^H                                   >lr..398 

Lung«\-ill.  John  da,  549                   ^H 
Lylleboumv.  Richard,  356                ^H 

^^^^^^H                                    Prter.  408 

Lynde  Wiltiaio,  550                        ^H 

^^^^^^H                         Wiiiifim.  166 

hynn.  53ft  535                                    ■ 

^^^^^^^^^m                          Le^Deittr,  Gilbert,  550 

Lyon,  CKarIa,  357, 363,  554.  564   fl 

^^^^^^^f                                          Robert         5SS 

„      James,  313                               H 

Mr,  39                                 ^H 

^^^^^^^*                             Lerbhall,  Simon  dc,  549 

^^^^^^r                                       lAchvitytd,  F.ditaTd,  1^9 

Samuel,  533                               ^M 

^^^^H                                                                141 

Tl-t"".  559                          ^M 

^^^H                                 l-ie^.  535 

LjMtf,  Gilbert,  557                   ^^^H 

^^^^^^1                                    Lillingiton  Dayrell,  364 

^^^^^1 

^^^^^1                                     Lillingtlone  Lorell,  351,  3G4 

^^^^H 

^^^^^^1                                Limcrjcic. 

Uabcrtj,  Captiln,  500.  510             ^| 

^^^^^^1                                Linrti.  Daniel,  J03 

Mflcee.  45-  74-85-  407                ^^H 
Mdch«bv.  William,  147            ^^^^1 

^^^^^1                                 Uacoln,  91,          133.530 

^^^H                                                Bishop  of,  33a,  3J4 

Maddoc'k,  William.  <g              ^^^H 
Madru  Sytlem  cf  EdiicalioK,  3^^| 

^^^^^^B                                    LinneH,  Edwin,  ^03 
^^^^^B                                    IJon  and  LambTnn,  307 

MsgdAlen  Colter*.  Oxfoed,  336        ■ 

^^^^M                                         Inn.  a67.  307 

Magbmtea,  114-5                             ^M 

^^^^^B                                    Lilchlirld,  Kdwird.  3:69 

Maraie  Inn,  The.  303.  307                 ^H 
MaiM,  R<^)cn.  561                            ^H 

^^^^H                             Little  DipdAlc, 

^^^^^H                                          Hoton, 

Marlboroa|k.  Ouke  of,  482-4,  54a 
Mallone,  TAocnas,  140                             , 

^^^^^^H                               Littleton,  Captain.  407 

^^^^^H                                                      Lord,  106 

Malplaqucl.  4!^                                    ^H 

^^^^H                                                             Sir  Thocnai,  3^6,  ^ 

Malliters,  85,  J1Q9-307,  505                ^H 

^^^^^m                           Lmty.sia 

Mnllhill.  186                                 ^^H 

^^^^^P                                            of  the  Towa.  89-90 

Maltkilnt.  24)                               ^^^H 

^^^^^                                Lockett  William,  565 

Mailman.  Ro2«*.  557               ^^^^| 
Williain,  SS7           ^^H 

^^r                                      Lococlt,  Henrj.  259,  371,  375,  554.  S'S4 

INDEX. 


591 


Malt  Row,  534 
Man,  John,  559 
„    Robert,  463 
„     Thomas,  558 
Manchester,  Earl  of,  104,  106 

Lord,  84,  435 
Manfield,  Moses  Philip,  555 
Maning,  Alexander,  59,  €1,  64 
ManiDg,  Bartholomew,  47 
Maoicg,  Richard,  95 
Mankin,  John,  559 

Manley,  Edward,  104,  137,  333,  551,  560 
„        Uwrence,  30,  154.  ifiS.  >6o.  35«. 

SS«-a,  559.  S6' 
„        Mr..  397 
Manners,  Col.,  jo8 
Manninge,  Thomas,  73, 
Manning,  Bartholomew,  247,  553,  563 
„        James,  410 
John,  563,  569 
ManniDgham,  William,  559 
Ma*ux  Dei,  537 
Marcey,  John,  143 
MarecJale,  163 
Marefair,  16,  403,  533 
Marehold  (Mayorhold),  16,  170,  t86,  341, 

397-9.  374,  S"6,  S"8,  534,  5a6 
Marescale,  163-3 

Margaret,  St.,  Church  of,  430, 528 
Market  Cross,  14S,  193-5,  ^44.  36i,  396, 
470,  506-7 
„      Jury.  "34 

„       Square  (or   Hill),   i«,   171,   186, 
193,  244,  247.  236,  259,  371, 284, 
350.  379.  418,  506.  526 
Markets,  40,  53.  85.   133-5, 186-192,  240, 

378:9 
Market  Harborough,  471,  476,  538-9 
Markham,  Christopher,  555 
H.  W.,  378 
Mr.,  511 
„         William,  S70 
Marriatt.  Stephen,  140 
Marriot,  Richard,  124 
Marriott,  Mr.,  72 

„         Samuel,  554,  564 
Manyett,  Thomas,  58 
Martyot,  William,  138 
Marshall,  George,  86,  457-8 
„         lames.  566 
„        John.  142  SS5,  559,  566 
„         Justice,  366 
„        Thomas,  559,  566 

William,  365,  5S4, 559,  565-6 
Marshes,  Ralph,  126 
Marston  Moor,  106 
Martin,  St.,  Chapel  of,  430,  526 
„       St.,  Street,  307,  526 
„      Edward.  561 
„      Heoty,  555 
„      Lewis,  563 
.,      Mr.,  353-4,  571 
„      Samuel,  44',  55*,  S^a,  568 


Martin,  Thomas,  117,  35(^360,  55a,  561 

„       William.  570 
Martjii,  Thomas,  169 
Martrne, John,  557 
Marvel!  Gutter,  164 
Marvell  Mills,   155,   159,  317,  291-2,  374, 

433.516,519 
Mary,Oueen.56,  133,  182,  313,385,  433-3 
„     St.,  Headland,  163 
„      Mary,  St.,  Church  of,  353,  430-3 
„      Mary,  St.,  Street,  344,366,  531,526 
Mason,  Nicholas,  64 
„       Richard,  63 
Masons,  505 
Maasey,  Mr.,  457.  459 
„       Valentine,  478 
„       William,  59 
Massingberd,  Mr.,  44-5,  47,  345,  363 

„  Richard,  374,  457,  459,  553, 

562,568 
Maswelt,  Head,  162 
Matlock,  Paul,  459 
Mat  makers,  505 
Matthews,  Agnes,  331,  333 

„         Joseph,  403,  408,  564 
Maud,  John,  37 
Maude,  Empress,  467 
Maunci,  Yacomo  de,  537 
Maundy,  Thomas,  83-4 
Maunsell  Furlong,  165 
Maxty,  John.  557 
May  (^Iey),  Richard,  550 

„     William,  550,  558 
Maydwell,  Lawrence,  475 

,.         Thomas,  475 
Maynard,  John,  166,  428,  446,  561 
Ralph,  551,  560 
„        Thomas,  553 
Meacock,  Richard,  369,  373,  5S4i  5^5 
Mead,  John,  558 
Medbury,  Edward  456,  458 

.,        Richard,  563 
Medlar  Trees,  154 
Megre,  John  !e,  549 
Meerhote  Gutters,  165 
Members  of  Parliament,  493-513 
Menard,  Mr.,  240 

„      Ralph,  104,  113,  134,566 
Mercer,  Edward.  421,  553,  561 
„      James,  553,  561,567 
„      John,  450,  457,  459,  553,  560 
„       Mr.,  56,  61 
„      William,  457 
Mercers'  Row,  40,  174,  192,  347,  261,  271, 

509.519.  5".  534-S 
390 
Merry,  William,  561 
Merton  College,  356 
Metcalf,  Cuthbert,  259 
Meynard,  Abram,  478 

„         John,  139 
Michael,  St.,  Church  of,  93,  430 
„      St.,  Lane,  361,  538 

p  p  a 


5t)2 


NORTHAMPTON   BOROUGH    RECORDS. 


Middle  Itoltow.  162 
Middletou.  Rkharil,  373 

„  WillUm,  460,  463 

Midjtniiuncr  Me«claiiT,  6j,  3A8 
Milc«,  Mr^  396 
Mill  Holme.  j6S 
Miller.  Edward.  402-3 

.,      Uiro,  123,  JSS.  5S4.  5*Si  570 

,.      Mt.,  ZS 

.,      William.  558 
Millers  and  Mills,  agO-J,  $05 
Milb,  Rich.ird,  SS4 

„      William,  550,  555 
Millwrights,  505 
Millon.  Sj).  6a.  IS3.  160.  370 
MobU,  Williun,  5G6 
Modem.  107 
Mui|tne,  JotiDt  556 
MolccatcW,  ep.  2M 
Monk,  Cenaiu,  49S 
Monmotidi,  Duke  of,  475 
Monshill,  16$ 
Mont.i][ue.  Colonel.  500-1 
„  Duke  of,  109 

„  Hon.  Edward.  499 

Hon.  Ralph,  499-50> 
„  Lord,  loS 

„  Sii  Edwofd,  108-9,  390 

Moni«,  Williini,  556 
Moiit[o<d,  Sinland*,  l67,)53t 
Monuments,  419-20 
Maur  Field,   i(\4 
Monrion,  Capt.,  544 
Moure  (More),  John.  81,  Sso.  571 

.,      RicliBrd,  39,  402,  iS4.  5«S4 

„      Robcn.  571 

„      Stund  A„  6.  8.  122.  321,  339 

„  William.  ;6) 
Mordock,  John,  559 
Morg.>n.  Iraocis,  104,  t68,  tg6,  345,  24S 

„        G«»go.399 
John.  SS6 
Morgan.  2SS 

..        Mt-.  45 

„        William  Kishcf,  355.  S^ 
Moninfc,  Hugh,  139 
Morlc/i  Thomoi,  131 
Motri*,  Edward,  J75 

,,       Mr,,  41 1 

„       Richard,  565 

..       Robert.  37S.  SS+ 
Monimnr,  Brl.tcoe.  139 
Uonon,  Henry.  139 
Murrin,  William.  570 
Mojelcy.  Henry,  323 
Moj.ic,  Robert   55S 
M<^lte.  John,  551 
Moil  lion.  130 

Way.  i6i-fi 
Mount  Sorrell.  51J 
Mountebanks,  153 
Moyn«,John  tie.  549 


Mackhlll,  Mil««,  323 
Mulltner,  Aujptitinc,  461 

Francis,  511.  554*5.  S* 
Multoo,  William,  SSO 
MoraKc,  8.  4^7-8 
Murphy,  Mr.,  J03 
Mdseutn,  Town,  194 
Mvatcuins,  323,  505 
Musttct^  4.1;  I  -3 
Mustard«n,  Richard  l«,  J55 
Mvddleion,  John,  16S 
Myddloockr  Sladr.  165 
Ujvon,  Abraham,  563 


Naiton,  JOS 

Nnmar,  479 

National  Sebools,  99 

Navi^llon.  543-3 

NaylM,  Mr.  341 

Naylcu-orth.  Akaandcc  dc,  5Sfi 

Neal.  Henry.  551,  sfio 

..    ]"1">.  373.  457-ft  5*0 
Nealc.  Mr.,  46,  S^,  58,  61,  6$,  1: 
Necl,  Harry,  312 
Nncli  Chapnl,  393 
N*l»on,  Jan*.  363 

Lord.  174.4S6-7 
Ncnc,  Ri«-cr.  431.  542.3 
Nwthulands.  ij8.  256 
Nctlleboro  Furlonif.  163-4 
Neville,  John.  ^9 
New  Saium,  493 
NcwbcTfv.  107 

Newky,  M.»mi.doke,  365, 554,  55  . 
Newcastle,  73.  131,  133.  444,  530 
New  Clow,  163.  165 
Ncwcomc.  Atd«mun,  366-7 

John,  507.  554.  564-5.  5fi9 
Ncwe.  George.  3J3 
Ncwlnnd.344.  346.248,  jaS4,)fi3,jd8^|| 

525 
Newman.  Nicbolai,  158 

„         Thomas,  463,  350 
Newton,  Gabritl.  357, 367,  379 
NiccolU.  John,  140 
Nicholas,  Edward.  460. 463 
„        William.  550 
H        Sir  Edward.  442-3 
Nirhols,  Richard,  561 
Nile,  Baltic  oi,  486 
Nipptn.  Mr..  43 
Noble.  William.  569 
Noon,  Meadow,  165 
Norman.  G^ciege,  555 

..        J.  Bejridge.  555 
Norrnandy,  128 

Chikc  of.  467 
North  £nd.  363 

„      Gate.  JB.  J67,  363.  46(>-70.  533 

„       Street,  166,469,  535 

„      Ward,  S9,  139,  140,  153,  ^jg^ 


INDEX. 


593 


Northampton,  Earl  of,  104,  107,  111,31a, 
357.  379.  480.  487 
Lord,  43-7.  4*.  478, 501, 505 
„  Marquis  of,  iii,  538 

Northey,  Sir  Edward,  39 
Northfolk,  Robert,  558 
Norway,  535 

Norwich,  r4,  73,  121,  311,  520 
Sir  John,  345,  498 
„        Bishop  of,  4tfi 
Norwick,  Sir  Roger,  45,  47 
Norwood.  George,  379 
Nottingham,  14,  91,  121,  346,  436,  468 
Nuncourt.  William,  556 
NuDS  Bridge,  525 
„      Mill,  62,  64,  53S 
.,      Well,  525 
Nut  trees,  155-160 
Nutt,  WiHiam,  417 


Oakley,  Mr.,  61 

Oath  of  Allegiance,  474-5 

Oats,  531-33 

Oatmeal  Man,  505 

Obelisk,  193 

O'Brian,  Lord,  36,  43-7)499 

Odell,  William,  566 

Ogle,  Beatrice,  361.  363,  370,  373 

„  Cuthbert,  361 
Oldam,  William,  61 
Oldham,  Mr.,  37 
Orange  School,  357 
Oranges,  174 
Organs,  386.  411-12 
Orphans'  Court,  iig-ao,  531 

„       Court  Books,  3 
Osborne  {Osborn},  George,  554,  565 

Francis,  554,  565.  570 

Henry.  365,  511,  558 

John,  461,  570 

Mr.,  41 
„         Sir  George,  501-6 

Thomas,  93,  555 
Osborne's  Jetty,  520 
Osmond,  William,  44-6 
„        Samuel,  44,  46 
Ostlers,  505 
Otley,  128 
Oudenarde,  4S3 
Oughtlands,  163 
Oundle,  543 
"  Our  Lady  of  Grace,"  521,  524 

Ouse.  535 

Overbury,  Sir  Thomas,  447 
Over  Marsh,  164 
Overston,  Geoffrey  de,  199 

„         Lord,  403 
Overton,  Roger,  556 

Thomas,  549,  556 
Oxenford,  John,  557 
Oiford,  15.  33,  106,  109,  146,  336 
„        Lord,  481 

Way,  164,  476,  520 


Pack-horses,  199,  204 
Packsaddles,  125,  204 
Packwood,  Thomas,  58 
Page,  John,  559 
Pageants,  181,  184 
Painters,  505 
Palmer,  Agnes,  167 

„       John,  167 
Joseph,  89 
Papal  Legate,  383 
Fa  per -makers,  505 
Papillon,  David,  439-40 
Paraphrase  of  Erasmus,  415 
Parchment- makers,  217,  314,  505 
Pares,  Thomas,  205 
Paris,  95 
Parker,  Colonel,  481 

„       Edward,  457-8,  5*3.  569 

„       Francis,  555 

„        Mr.,  503 

„       Nicholas,  561,  567 

„       Thomas.  559 
Parkinson,  Edward,  420 
Parks,  Thomas,  550 
Parminter,  Luke,  555 

Roger,  558 
Parr,  John,  456,  562,  563,  569 
„      Mr.,  37.  44,  458 
„     Richard,  411.  564 
Parsham,  John,  564 
Parvin,  William,  559 
Pasham,  John.  408,  564 
Passelewe,  Ralph,  555 
Passenham,  340 

Ralph,  557 
Pane,  William,  558 
PatCishall,  339 
Pattison.  Goodman,  459 
Rowland,  154 
Paul's,  St .  Church  o^  168,  538 
Paulet,  Mr.,  335 
Pairage.  8 

Paving  of  Highways,  266-7 
Payment  of  Members,  493-5 
Payne,  William,  565.  566 
Paynter,  Thomas,  556 
Peach  Trees,  156 
Peach.  Edward,  371 

,.      George,  555 

„      Thomas.  291.  318,  402,  458,  553, 

563.564 
„      William.  402 
Peacock,  Inn,  50.  66,  333,  307,  374,  480, 

482.  517.  521 
Peate,  Jonathan,  563 
.,     William,  565 
Pear  Trees.  153,  160 
Peck.  John,  331 
Peedle,  Thomas,  86,  571 
Peirce.  William  John.  555 
Pell,  George,  307 
Pemberton  (Pemerton),  Thomas.  104,551, 

559.  560 
„  William,  560 


594 


NORTHAMPTON    BOROUGH 


Pence,  St.  George's,  204 
Pendleton,  John,  60 

Roger,  446,  561 
„  Thomas,  294 

Pennye,  Thomas,  551 
Pensionary  Parliament,  498 
Pensioner,  505 
Penthouse,  269 
Percival,  James,  503 

John,  363 

Spencer,  32-3,  25,  104,  112,  206, 
319.  349.  487-8,  508-9 
Perkins,  Thomas,  136 
Perrin,  Thomas,  558 
.,      William,  550 
Perven,  John,  551.  559 
Perry,  Pickering  P..  555 
Peryne,  John.  558 
Peryor,  William,  557 
Perruque-maker,  504 
Pesson,  William  le,  549 
Peter,  St ,  Church  of,  238,  a66,  361,  364, 

420-3.  516 
„      the  Trumpet,  482-4 
Peterborough,  384,  386.  497,  543 

„  Bishop  of,  93,  353,  390-1, 

394.404- 411,  417.421 
„  Earl  of,  47,  106-10,  478 

Peter,  William,  461 
Petnall,  William,  551 
Pettit,  William,  138,  180,  353,  $63 
Pews,  407-10 

Pewter  Vessels,  125-6,  173, 181,  1S4 
Peybody,  Thomas,  560 
Pheasant,  William,  563 
Philip  and  Mary,  17,57,68,104,  113,1*7. 

«..,■.         w  383.449.494 

Phillipps,  Mr.,  503 

Phipps,  Alderman,  85,  511 

Edward.  365 


John,  85,  553,  566 
Ir.,  9 


.95 
Pickering,  544-5,  566 
„       Richard,  566 
Pickering,  Sir  Gilbert,  400,  497 
"  Picklinge,"  134 
Pickmer,  Mr.,  35,  36.  84,  475,  553 
Pidgeon,  Thomas,  457,  4^* 
Pike  Lane,  525 
Pikes,  448-53 
Pilkington,  496 

Mr.,  4S 
„  Thomas,  245 

Pillory,  134,  296 
Pinder,  215 
Pindleton,  John,  56a 

Thomas,  552,  562,  568 
Pinfold,  225 
Pinner,  57,  60,  269 
„       Robert,  160 
Pipe  Rolls,  209-10 
Pipemakers,  505 
Pipes  and  Candles,  65,  174,  4S1,  483 


Pippewe 
Pitsford 
Plackett, 

PlagiJe, ' 
Plant,  A 
Plate,  O 
Plasterei 
Play  Acl 
Plough  1 
Plough  n 


Plum  Ce 

.,      Ti 

Plumber 

Pointma 

Pole.  Ca 

..     Tl 

Pontage 

Ponteys, 

Poole,  E 

„      S 

Poopc. ' 

Poor,  I J 

„      B 

„      M 

Porta,  Ji 

Porte  Li 

Porter.  J 

Porters. 

Portico 

Portmea 

Post-chj 

Post-boj 

Post  mas 

Potter,  J 


Pottersp 
Powys, ' 
Poyner, 
Pratt,  J( 
Priestle' 
PrentesI 
Prentice 

Press' G 
Preston. 

t. 
Pretyma 

Price','  C 
Pricheri 
Priest,  J 
Prinets, 
Printers 
Prior,  H 

::  J 

Prlsonei 


INDEX. 


595 


Pritwell,  John,  560 

Proctor,  William,  373 

Provence,  14 

Psalters,  358 

Public  Record  Office,  8,  171,  437,  493 

Pump,  192-3,  261 

Puncli  Bowl,  39 

„      Brewing,  174 
Puritans,  238,  385-97 
Purser,  John.  462 
Pury,  John,  557-8 

„      William,  557 
Pyites,  164 
Pym,  Wm.,  124 
F^oot,  430 
^sford,  William,  556 

Quack  Doctors,  53 
Quakers,  316 

Quarrior,  John,  360,  384-5 
Quart  Measure,  194 

„       Pot  Inn,  307,  374,  376,  535 

„       Pot  Une,  307,  522.  525 
Queen.  The,  471-a 

„        Eleanor's  Cross,  157 
Queen's  Place,  160  "^  .  "^ 

Queenby,  Peter,  418 
Quince  Tree,  154 
Quinton,  Lawrence,  557 

Railways,  543-4 
Radford,  Thomas,  460,  ^2 
Rainsford,  George,  327.  552,  561 
„  Lawrence,  552,  561 

Richard.  245,  256.  345,  498-9, 

552 
Willi;.m,    159,  4SO,  5SI.  560. 
562 
Raleigh,  Sir  Walter,  448 
Ram  Inn   307 
Ram  lilies.  483 
Rand,  Simon,  463 
„      Thomas,  448,  457,  459,  561 
„       Tobias,  248 
Rande,  Nicholas,  196,  494,  551,  559 
Randes,  Robert,  153,  157,  446,  561,  567 
Rands,  Elizabeth,  6t 
„      Mr.,  45,  245 
„      Richard,  35.  47,  84,  21 1,  456,  458, 

562 
„      William,  138 
Randall,  Henry  Edward,  555 
Raunds,  352 
Ravenscroft,  Mr.,  157-8 
Raw] ens,  Richard.  556 
Rawlines,  Holme,  215 
Rawlins,  Ann.  340 
Rawson,  William,  537 
Raynsford,  Sir  Richard,  111 
Reading,  Christopher,  556 
„       Francis,  72,  117 
„       John,  117,  570 


Reading,  Mr.,  69 

Reason,  Robert,  561 

Re-building  of  Northampton,  346-9 

Record,  Court  of,  i  i6-i  19 

Recognizances,  67 

Recorders,  103-113 

Red  Cow  Inn,  307 

„      Lion  Inn,  50,  187,  307,  482,  505 
Reding,  Daniel,  345 
Reeves,  14,  51,  113,  114 
Regent,  Prince.  489 
Remmin^on,  Joshua,  377 
Resten,  John,  558 
Reve,  John,  559 
Revell,  John,  557 
Revels,  Mr.,  504 
Revolution  of  i(5S8,  478 
RcignfFord,  Mr,  188 
Reynold,  Anthony,  338 

„       Dr.  and  Mrs.,  416 

„       Edward,  391 

„       William,  461,  503 
Reyny,  Bartholomew  de,  556 
Reyse,  Edward,  560 
Richard  I.,  329,  467 

„       IL,  16,  147.  467.523 
.,        1"-.  239 
Richardson,  William,  461 
Richards,  William,  476 
Richmond.  93 

„  Archdeaconry  of,  364-5 

Rickman^ohn,  441 
Riledge,  'niomas,  559 
Ringrose,  Thomas,  63 
Riot  Act.  509 

„    Wheat,  65 
Rishworth,  Francis,  394,  400 
Roa.lc,  36a,  367,  379 
Roberts,  John,  87,  571 
William,  55S 
Robins,  John,  558 

„       Mark,  154,  157, 
Robinson,  John,  31S 

„  '       Sir  George,  509-13 
Walter,  463 
William,  373 
Rochelie,  448 
Rock,  Goodman,  462 
Rockingham,  467 

John,  557 
Roddis.  Mr.,  174 
Rodney,  Sir  George,  501-6 
Rodwell  Hill,  164 
Rogers,  Daniel,  353,  571 
„        lames,  458.9 

„      Samuel.  355,571 

„      Timothy,  540 
Rood-ln-the-Wall.  420.  534,  537 
Roger,  Henry,  448,  556 
Rose  Inn,  307 

Rose  and  Crown  Inn,  50,  66, 307, 479, 481 
Rose,  James,  566 
„     John,  1 17,  S70 


RMchand,  John,  559 
Rdsw,  RobKTt,  189 
Rosoo,  Christopher,  561 

,.  Robert,  552 
Ross,  Charli!s.  4510 
RoihweU,  aoo 

„         Nicholas,  ]6i 
R«tieTi  Row,  157 
Ro«5,  RwbCTt  k  5*9.  S5^ 
Rowel),  George,  70-I.  535,  563 

■•       J«hn,  570 

,.       Miss,  377 
Rowland.  Simon,  559 
Rowson,  CSirisEopher.  567 
Rowtc, John,  184 
Royal  Dctncstie,  13,  1 15 
,,       Visiti,  +67-73 

Roys,  Francis,  457 

„      John,  459 
Ru:£h«den.  John,  557 

WillUm.  350,  557 
Rushmill,  63 
Ruishlon,  Mr  ,  344 

„        William.  117,  475.  .'i70 
Rushwordii  AldermHn,  338 
Brian.  86 

Frnn:ci.,  345,441.563 
Ru^ael,  Fohn,  185 
Rutland,  Mr.  445 
Rye  Hill,  518. 
Ryiwick,  Peace  of.  480 


S&bbatli  Observartce.  »82,  303 

Sacramert.  Rereiving' the,  38-9 
SaJier,  R.ilph,  .557 
Simiin,  557 
Sadlers,  51 

S.lkt'S.  Ji>lin.  551") 

S.ili^i-y,  4(1;,  5j: 

Side  ut  ^\(U"(n^'s,NTi  i'[  Al!  S,■^^nt^^  40L-J 

„      of  t'iiurrli  I'l  il.-.  416 

,,     ThdTii.is,  5411,  550 
S;ilisbLiry.  (>>> 

^'.ird.  jS,  164-3 
Salli:t  Inn,  J117 
Snk,    M.ikin^,  ig^-f) 
Sallpetru,  J^o 
S.ilt  S(r.-f1,   198-9 
Saltcrs'  Inn,  _!07 
Snmiu'll,  Kr.inris,  iSj,  332 
S^imiVfli,  Sir  Thonins,  fil 
Willi^iiTi,  ilki-i 
Sanbruokt-,     I'honi.is,   bg,    153,    15(>,   47J, 

5,'i7,   .S<>i 
S.iTid.Tlr,  Jdliii  dc,  4-;j 
Saiidhi^x.  174 
S,indivi(h,   15 

Sarii-fii's  Mc.ui  Inn,  41.  13^,307 
S."ir<^i',Tnl,  Ji-ir])li,  345,  56S 
,,  Mr  ,  33,  400 


Satehvrell,  Joit^h,  82,  571 

Saucee,  Onoriui.  556 

Saunders,  Chmtapher,  563 
„         Coffee  iiouis,  50 

Daniel.  «6.  aSs.  S?> 
Gesuge.  364.,  565 
Juhn,  61,  449.  558,56ff 
Ut.  3?-8,  60 
Rith-ird.  SSJ,  ^*-  369 
,.        Wlllnm.  3^ 

SauDdersun.  Chrisiopticr,  567 
Mr.  iss.  iS"S.  3S3, 

Savagt^.  Wiilliain.  16O 

Savvjcrs,  504. 

Sasby,  ]ahp,   69,    I24i  2^.   3lSI. 

370 

,.      ThomM,  550.  557^ 
Scambler,  Btshcp,  jS6 
Seamfield.  Wilh.im,  jjo 
Scarborough,  William.  458.  S»S2 
Scailei.  Colour.  95-g 

,.  WVll  1 70.  as6.  »75 
Sciirkturel  I  Slr«ct.  256,  52^ 
Scsvcnger,  165 '^69 

Sceptre,  T  iC 

Schfiol.   Ft*e    Gr^jnihai',    61,    1S3.    I 

i6j.  3[5X»-6.4«>.  421.  54'-' 
Schooli  (^  Corporalioa,  ^^d^o 

ScLlly  Isles  483 
Scorrail,  Gilbert,  $60 
Robert,  560 
Scriven,  Gearge,  570 

,.      jplin,  457-8.4^3 

„       Riehard,  566 

,.      Samiipl   58,  564 
Tbonias.  ifit;.  ^70 

.,       \V.,  4D 
Si:rivfner>i,  =,"4 

SiTWeii,   li.hn.  irxi,  4CI ,  56.;,  5O4 
Slm  Ci.:il  .'i>3 
Se.ii,  Tbu  liriMl,   4:'.-' 
Si,'i"tUT-,  1-t   l.<LM"hfr.  41^ 
Se.ils,  45-(i,  icij-lJ.',  14J-5,  J45-(i.  33_ 
Sf^iri-hur^  iif  I.i-.iliii-r,  41} 
Scats  nl  .-Ml  Saints',  4l>'_i-1l) 
Se.iwcll,  Ja^iii--,.    ^cq 
Scg.iry,  [■•iin.  y''~i.    570 
Selbv,  Al^t-rmiii,  405 
Juhn,  37 

.-      -:'!■ -f57p  4r'^.  55j-  ,"''- 
Willi.ini,  Jii,  091.  50-;.  j'!* 
Sepiik'hrL-'s.  Si  .  13;^.    [53,    1 70,  iS.-;. 
2(<7-  ?4o.  .IM.  y'>4.  3gi,  4.'o,  4^3 
Serjeant,  .MtitTrnaii.  33^ 
S<.Tfie:ints.  49,  JjO,  64.  Z^->^S.    1J4.  "-;J 

4S5-9"  , 

Seri;t-:iiit's  Charity,  365 

Serjeant,  J.isc^ph.  553.  5C12 
Mr..  407 
Ri.j;i-r,  140.  561 
Thi.m.is.  245,  553.  56:: 

Serjeants  ul  Miliii.i.  505 

Sermons,  386 


.1 

I 

( 


INDEX. 


597 


ServantH.  505 

Sessions  House,  148,  245 

Sexton,  49,  so,  58,  60,  85,  86,  147,  37a, 

417-19 
Seymsters,  378 
Sharpe.  Durham,  566 
Heniy,  155 
Hugh,  564 
„        Robert,  14a 
,,       Thomas,  555 
„       William,  136 
Shaw,  Ffancis,565 

.,     John,  a88 
Shaweil,  361 
Sheep,  187-9 

Sheep  Market,  247,  469-70,  526 
Sheep  Street,  186,  376.  516,  536 
Shefford,  Robert,  331,  550 

„       William,  549.  559 
Shenley,  Wiiliam,  556 
Shepherd,  Elizabeth,  154 
Henry,  461 
Robert,  159,  S5<HS0 
Shepherds,  505 
Sheppard,  Archdeacon,  390 
„        Thomas,  61,417 
Sheremen,  288-9 
Sheriffs,  53-5,  113 
Sherland,  Christopher,  495 
Shertey,  Henry,  323 

William,  323 
Sherwood,  Mr.,  44 
Shipwrits,  434-5,  437 
Slipton,  200-1 

Shoemakers,  184-5,  293-5.  S^S-  5'° 
Shoosmith,  William,  570 
Shopkeepers,  505 
Shops,  172 
Shoreditch,  197 
Shorland,  Christopher,  105 
Short,  Samuel,  417,  563,  570 

„       Hawtway,  165 
Shortland,  Samuel,  568 
Shortgrave,  John,  333,  570 
Shrewsbury,  98,  121 
Shrovesbury,  John,  549 
Shrove  Tuesday,  361 
Sibley,  Joseph,  566  . 

Robert,  43 
Sibthorpe,  Dr.,  391,  394 

Robert,  570 
Sillesbee  (Sillesby,  Silsby),    Heniy,  308, 
562 
John,  76,  458 
Matthew,    361,   363,  368,  553, 

561,  562,  568 
William,  558 
Thomas,  457-8 
Silver  Slre^,  154,  166,  374.  S>7.  $36 
Singleton,  Matthew,  458 
Simcoe,  John,  564 
Simnel,  279 
Simpson,  John,  43 


Skavage  due,  269,  418 

Skekon,  John,  338-40,  558 

Skerolies,  Mistress,  155 

Slapton,  300- 1,  299 

Slaters,  505 

Slatier,  Giles,  332 

Sleeve- Badges,  of  Silver,  87,  146-7 

Sloth,  Goodman,  458 

Slottes,  163 

Small  Doles,  162 

Smart,  John,  33,  563 

„       Joseph,  359 

„       Mr.,  178 

„       Richard,  561 
Smerekernererowe,  526 
Smith  (Smyth),  Arthur,  178 

„      Charles,  122,  371,  565 

„       Dorothy,  248-9 

„       Edward,  59,  79,   134,  139,  154,  571 

„       Elizabeth,  136 

„      George,  139 

„       Henry,  139 

„       John.  60.   87,   456.  458,  4S0.  463. 

550,  554.  559.  562.  564,  569.  S7' 

„       Mr,.  390 

,.       Mr.  Justice.  358 

„       Randall,  433 

„       Richard,  556 

„       Robert,  375 

„      Samuel,  457,  562 

„      Thomas.  369,  371,  46a.  565 

„      William,  168,  248,  298,  407,  563 
Smithies  Lane.  523-4 
Smiths,  505 

Smithson.  Robert,  511,  554 
Snathes,  163 
Snelle,  John,  558 
Snowden,  Joshua.  375 
Sokle.  William  de,  556 
Soldiers,  47,  436-448,  480-1,  486 
Somers,  John.  563 
Somersete,  Gilbert  de,  556 
Somerton.  Thomas,  567 
SossinghaJI,  Thomas,  558 
Southampton,  23,  131 
South  Bridge,  159,  470,  538-9 

„      Gate,  470 

„       Street,  247 

„       Ward.  58,  139.  140,    159.    166,439, 
446 
Spain,  448,  S3S 
S  paid  wick,  John  de,  556 
Sparkes,  John.  460,  ^3 
Speed's  Place,  515 
Spence,  William,  418 
Spencer,  Lord,  in,  443,  495,  504-507 
Mr..  36-7,  44,  47 


John,  494 
Sir  It 


John,  123,  342,  390 
William.  457.  553,  562 
Laurence,  564 
Richard,  495 
Spereman,  William,  139 


INDEX. 


59^ 


Symonds,  John,  41S 
Swynfen,  Samuel,  565 
Symons,  Willows,    163 
Sywdl,  John.  556 

Tabard  Inn,  307 
TaffeU  Hats,  97 
Tailors,  295,  505 
Taintors,  217-8,  289 
Talbot  Inn,  307 
Tarn  worth,  107 
Tanners,  217,  264,  295^,  505 
Taragona,  485 
Tasters  of  flesh  and  fowl,  49 
Tate,  Francis,  73,  495 
„     William,  245,  248 
„      Richard,  406 
„     Zouch,  490 
Tates,  William.  58 
„       Richard,  479 
„       Thomas.  459,  565 
Taylor,  Widow,  442 
William,  166 

56-7.  122,  124,  131,  183, 
294-SS".5fi6 
Tear,  Richard,  373 
Tebbutt,  Edward,  457 

„         John.  402 
Temple.  Sir  William,  499 
Testament,  New,  174 
Thackeray,  James.  78,  571 

Mr.,  352,  571 
Thirdboroughs,  49,  139-142 

„  Grass,  161 

Thomas  k  BeckeC,  St.,  Well  of,  261-3,  ^89 
„       k  Becket.  329,  341 
„      David,  566 
„      St„  Bridge,  266,  432 
„      St.,  Bridge  Chapel,  160,420 
„      St.,  Day,  180-1,289.308,361,363 
„       St.,  Hospital  of,  50,  58,  62,64, 
75.     89.      233.     040,    341-4, 
360-7,  372-7,  398-420.  432 
„       St.,    Hospital,    Master   of,    245, 
292,  341-2 
Thompson,  Alderman.  366 

„  Christopher,  59,  481 

George,  553-4.  564 
„  Henry.  554.  565 

Mr..  486 

William,  554,  565 
Thorogood,  Edward,  562 
Thornton,  Thomas.  475,  553 

Mr..  498 
Thorp,  Constantine,  363 
„      Robert  de,  148 
„      William.  457.  439 
Thrapston,  200,  543 
Three  Pigeons  Inn.  307 
„       Tuns  Inn.  307 
„       Pots  Lane,  527 
Throwe  Acre,  165 
Thruppe  Bridge,  i6i 


Thnippe,  Brook,  160- 1 
Thrupp  Way,  164 
Thursby,  Christopher,  345 


J-H..37S 

Willia 


William,  403 
Thyresby,  Walter,  556 
Tidyman,  Nicholas,  557 
Tiffield  Woods,  63 
Tiliy,  William.  549 
Tims,  Joseph.  63,  64 
Tiplady,  Benjamin,  458-9 
Tirringham.  John.  557 

Joseph.  557 
Tithe  Meadow,  162 
Tiverton,  252 
Toad,  Henry,  308 
Tobacco.  174 
Toby,  John.  556 
Todd,  Henry.  561 
Token,  Town,  210-ia 
Tollemache.  Hon,  Wilbraham,  507 
Tolls,  49,  50,  86.  192,  197-208,  379 
ToUdish,   191 
Toll  House,  303 
Toby,   Robert.  556 
Tomes,  William,  555 
Tomkins,  William,  203 
„        Lawrence,  562 
„         Martin,  562 
Tomkyns,  Mr..  169 
Tompion,  Alderman,  364 

George,   169,  366,  401,   569 
„  William,  569 

Toms,  Joseph.   299 
Tonson,  William,  197 
Torbay,  477 
Tour  nay,  126 
Towcester,  338.  397 
John,  68 
Tower  of  Northampton,  339-40,  527 
Town  Attorney,  71-2 

Clerk,  7,  58.  67-71,   183 

Counsel,  in 

Crier,  49,  50,  62,  85-9,   147,  418 

Dyke,  155 

Hall,  3,  35,  36,  53.  58,  61,  63,  64, 
65,  108.   113,    158,    170-S,    244, 
394.  431.  438.  481 
Towns  of  the  Staple.  133-4 
Trader,  William.  463 
Trades  of  the  Town,  275-308 
Trained  Bands,  437,  440-8 
"  Trantor."  65 
Trasler,  Robert,  123.  554.  565 

„       William.  566 
Travell,  Henry,  168 
Treasure  Trove,  112,  113 
Treddy,  Edward,  563 
Tree  Planting,  63 
Trees,  Fruit,  153-160 
Treaham,  George,  170 
Treslove,  Samuel,  554,  S65 
Trinity  Fair,  187. 


INDEX. 


6oi 


Warwick,  107,  346,  468 
„  Sir  Philip,  108 

„         Thomas,  549 
Warwicke,  William,  63,  64 
Wasli.  The,  aoo 
Watford.  542 
Water  Carts,  a6o 
Water  Furrows,  ifia 
Watkin,  G.,  423 
Watkins,  Edward,  375 

„       Mill,  162-3 
Washington,  Lawrence,  541 
Waste!,  279 

Wastell,  Symon,  353-3,  47> 
Wate,  Richard,  397 
Waterloo,  488 
Watch  and  Ward,  453^53 
Watchmen,  235.  240 
Water  Works,  352,  263 
Watts  (Watts).  John,  139,  450,  550 

„      Jonas,  60,  64 

„      Mr.,  240, 445 

„      Richard,  153,  185,  438,  450,  460, 

561,  5<^ 

„      Robert,  50,  418 

„      Thomas,  253,  SS^ 
Watson,  Mr ,  60 
Watyr,  John,  558 
Waydour  John  le,  549 
Wayne  Way,  162 
Wax  makers,  505 
Weavers,  505 
Webb,  Edward,  460,  463 
Wed  on,  Thomas,  549 
Weights  and  Measures,  40,  63,  78,  133-S, 

"93-S 
Weldon,  436 
Welford,  Samuel,  62 
Wellingborough,  200,  543 
Wellington  Street,  423 
Weller,  John,  549 
Wells,  Zachray,  377 
Wellys,  John,  556 

„        William,   558 
Welsh,  Katharine,  340 

„       Robert,  173 
Wemmes  (Wemys),    Richard,  549,  55°. 

S57 
Wenley,  Henry,  127 
Wentworth,  Mr.,  188 

Paul.  351.364 

Peter,  494 

Trustees,  354 
West  Bridge,  59,  62.  63-4,  22a,  44a 
West  Street,  16,  522,  527 
West,  Mathew,  462 
„      Thomas,  63 
Westerwell   Holme,  163 
Westgate,  59,  155.  368 
Bishop,  335 
Westley,  John,  377 
Westminster,   133,  404,  496 
Westmoreland,   Lord,  442-3,  45a 


Weston,  44 

„       Henry  de,  556 
John.   131 

„       Joseph,  402,  564 

„        Annys,   131 

„        Street.  344 
West  Ward,  59,   139,   140,   155,  439,  446 
Weydon.  Martin  le,  556 
Weydour,  John  !e,  556 
Whaley,  John,  63 

„       Mr.,  400 
Whalley,  Peter,  345,  441,  496,  552,568, 

562 
Wharloe,  Richard,    104,  322,  468,    494, 

55' 
Wharlow,   Henry,   154 
Wheathill,  192,  518 
Wheatley,  Simon,   560 
Wheatlie.  Thomas,  360 
Wheat  Sheaf  Inn.   136,  3O7 
Wheeler,  William,  189,  365,  430 

Richard.  551,  559 
Wheelows,  William,  561 
Whetlield,  William,  559 
Whetston,  Robert,  460,  46a 
Whimplers,   Row,  339,  534 
Whipping  Post,  196 
Whistan,  Jonas.  44,  60 

„        Jonathan,  33,  553,  56a 

Mr.,  244,  457 
„        Theophilus,  569 
Whittlebury,  467 
Whithorn,  John,  553 
Whiston,  Theophilus,  44,  46.7,  553 
Whit,  Mr.,  240 
Whitawers,  217,  3G4,  395-9 
White  Bear  Inn,  317 

„      Friars,  182-5,  5*' 

„      Friars'  Lane.  5a[,  538 

„      George,  43 

„      Hart  Inn,  351 

,.       Hill,  162 

„      Horse  Inn,  307 

„       Lion  Inn,  307 

„      Richard,  245, 362, 368, 404, 553, 563 

„      Sir  Thomas,  38,  laa,  307,  345-50. 
360,  3^7.  378 

„      Thomas,  557 

„      William,  138 
Whitehead,  Daniel,  46 
Whitesmiths,  505 
Whitewell  Path,  163 
Whithome,  John,  58,  563 
,,         Thomas,  563 
Whiting,  Ambrose,  30$ 
Whitney,  John,  566 
Whitwell  Path,  161 
Whitwham,  Jlonas,  346 
Whitworth,  Robert,  169 
„  Charles,  570 

Wickens,  Samuel,  457,  459 
Wilcox,  John,  550 
Whurlidge,  Edward,  63 


FXINTBD     BY     STANTON     AND     SON,     ABINOTON     STRKKT. 
1897. 


I 


1 


n 


DA 
690 
.N8 
V.2 


3  bios  DOS  SMM  31S 


DATE  DUE 


STANFORD  UNIVERSfTY  UBRARIES 

STANFORD,  CAUFORNIA 

94305 


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