THE History and Antiquities OF THE COUNTY PALATINE, of DURHAM; By William Hutchinson F.A.S.
VOL. II.
A View of Durham from Castle Chair.
NEWCASTLE Printed for S. Hodgson; & Messrs Robinsons▪ Paternoster Row▪ London.
MDCCLXXXVII.
DURHAM ABBEY from Admeasurement by
G. Nicholson Arch.
1780
ETTS BURGHS DUNELM. N.E. Asp
t.
DURHAM BANKS
A View on Durham Banks.
INTRODUCTION.
DURHAM is a maritime county, and takes its name from the city of Durham; commonly called the bishopric, and sometimes the county palatine.
The description given by Camden is to the following effect
Camden's Brit. (Gibson's edition, 1772) vol. ii. p. 127.
:
It lies north of Yorkshire, and is shaped like a triangle
Geographers deale with countries as astronomers with their asterismes, and fancy them into shapes; as
Italy
into a man's legge,
Spayne
into an Oxhyde, and the forme of this bishoprick into a ▵, or an equilateral triangle. It lyeth in the bosome of the Germaine Neptune, and embraced betweene the armes of the two christall rivers
Teese
and
Derwent.
—Legend of St Cuthbert.
, the apex or top whereof lies to the west, being formed there by the meeting of the north boundary and the head of the river Tees: The southern side is wholly bounded by the course of the Tees: The northern side, from about the point of the angle, forms a line to the river Derwent, and then is bounded by that river
(till it receives the rivulet called Chopwell or Milkburn),
and so full north to the river Tyne: The basis of this triangle, to the east, is formed by the shore of the German ocean.
Modern geographers have laid down the abuttals so variously, that in regard to the north-west point, we can in general only say, the river Tees totally separates the county of Durham from Westmorland and Yorkshire, and a very narrow point of Cumberland intervenes between that river and the confines of Northumberland, a space in which the proprietors are not well ascertained of their real boundaries. On the other sides, Camden's description is accurate.
The parts of this county, extended into the upper point or apex of the triangle, Camden describes
Camd. Brit. ibid.
to consist of naked lands, the woods few, the hills bald, but not destitute of veins of iron ore, whilst the vallies produce plenty of grass, the English Appenines intersecting the country at this angle.
At the distance of two hundred years, we cannot wonder at this picture of our county, or the ignorance of naturalists in regard to its produce and riches: The contrast we shall draw, it is hoped, will prove interesting. Our author then proceeds to describe the eastern side or basis of the triangle, where he observes,
as well as to the south, the soil by tillage is rendered fertile, and the country enamelled with meadows, corn-fields, and pastures, and graced with many towns, the bowels of the earth abounding in coal.
Such is the imperfect account given by this great writer.
The Magna Britannia describes this county to be thirty-five miles in length, thirty in breadth, and about one hundred and seven in circumference: Another account says, it is thirty-nine miles long, and thirty-five broad; containing nine hundred and fifty-eight square miles, and six hundred and ten thousand acres of land; and comprehending one city, eleven other market towns, fifty-two parishes, and twenty-one chapels; two hundred and twenty-three villages, nineteen thousand nine hundred and eighty-five houses, and ninety-seven thousand inhabitants; sixteen rivers, twenty-one parks, and several castles
Market Towns in Durhamshire.
Duneholm—
Akeland—
Wickingham—
the Quickke Market of Darlington, standing betwixt Tese and Were—
Stoketon upon Tese—
Wulsingham upon Were, almost in the middle way betwixt Stanhope and Akeland—
Hertilpole
Leland's information was erroneous, several other markets being established before his time.
.
Castelles in Durhamshire.
Duneholm—
Akeland—
Prudhoe Castle is in Northumberland, &c.
Prudo upon Tyne—
Stoketon upon Tese—
Barnard Castle—
Lomeley Castel, not far from Chestre.
Abbais and Priories in Durhamshire.
Duneholme upon Were River—
Finkelo upon Were, a celle of xiij monkes belonging to Durham—
Weremouth —
Garaw.—
There was a priori not farre from Darington, as I remember, aboute Teis River
N
asham priory or abbey.
.
The Limites of Durhamshire.
Tese River—
Tine River, on til he receive Derwent Water.—
Leland's Itin. vol. vii.
. These are the only modern accounts of the county worth attention, except the geographical table given in the notes
It hath four wards instead of hundreds; one city (Durham); and eight market towns, viz. Auckland, Stockton, Sunderland, Darlington, Hartlepool, Stainthorp, Barnardcastle, and Wolsingham; eighty parishes or ecclesiastical livings, of which thirty are rectories, twenty-one vicarages, and twenty-eight chapels.— Mag. Brit.
Geographical Table.—Durham. Acres 610,000—Circumference 107 miles— 1 borough—9 market towns—118 parishes — 15,984 houses—79,920 inhabitants—4 members to parliament—2 proportions paid to the land-tax—4 wards—Tyne, Wear, and Tees, chief rivers—Coal, iron, and lead, principal produce— Northern circuit—
264 miles N. W. Durham from London.
.
The county is divided into four wards, called Easington ward, Stockton ward, Darlington ward, and Chester ward. We know no reason why the several districts took those denominations, or derived their names from places of inferior consequence and distinction.
The air of the county is generally healthy, though cold on the hills; and according to some authors, that of the western parts sharper than that of the east. It is well watered by rivers and brooks, the chief of which are the Tees and Were
Hollinshed's description of these two rivers, and the several streams that join them, is so accurate, that we cannot omit the same.
The THESE, a river that beareth and feedeth an excellent salmon, riseth in the Black Lowes, above two miles flat west of the southerlie head of Were called
Burdop,
and south of the head of West Alen, and thence runneth through Tildale forest, and taking in the
Langdon-water
from northwdst, it runneth to Durtpit chappel, to Newbiggin, and so to Middleton, receiving by west of each of these a rill comming from by north (of which the last is called
Hude
) and likewise the
Lune
afterward by southwest, that riseth at three several places, whereof the first is in the borders of Westmerland and there called
Arnegill-becke,
the second more southerlie named
Lune-becke,
and the third by south at Bandor Skarth-hill, and meeting all above Arnegill-house, they run togither in one bottome to Lathekirke-bridge, and then into the These. Having therefore met with these, it runneth to Mickleton, and there taking in the
Skirkwith-water,
it goeth to Rombaldkirke, crossing there also one rill and the Bander-brooke by southwest, and then going to Morewood-hag and Morewood-parke, till it come to Bernard's castell. Here also it receiveth the
Thuresgill-water
coming east of Rere-crosse in Yorkshire from the Spittle in Stanmore by Crag almost southwest, and being united with the These, it goeth by Stratford, Eglesdon, Rokesbie, Thorpe, Wickliffe, Ovington, Winston, and betwene Barfurth and Gainfurth meeteth with another rill, that commeth from Langleie forest, betwene Rabie castell and Standorpe, of whose name I have no knowledge. But to proceed, the These being past Ramfurth, runneth betwene Persore and Cliffe, and in the waie to Croftsbridge taketh in the
Skerne,
a pretie water, which riseth above Trimdon, and goeth by Fishburne, Bradburie, Preston, Braforton, Skirmingham, the Burdons, Haughton and Darlington, and there finallie meeting with the
Cocke-becke
or
Dare,
it falleth in the These beneath Stapleton before it come at Croftsbridge, and (as it should seeme) is the same which Leland calleth Gretteie or Grettie. From thence it runneth to Sockburne, nether Dunsleie, Middleton-row, Newsham, Yarne (crossing a brooke from Levenbridge) called
Levin,
or
Leuinus
in Latin, whose crinkling course is notable, and the streame of some called
Thorpe.
After this the These hasteth on to Barwic, Preston, Thorne abbeie, and Arsham, which standeth on the southeast side of the river almost betwene the falles of two waters, whereof one descendeth from West Hartburne, by Long Newton, Elton, and Stockton; the other from Stillington or Shillington, by Whitton, Thorpe, Blackeston, Billingham, and Norton. From Arsham finallie it goeth to Bellasis, Middleburgh, and so into the sea.
Ptolomie writing of the WERE, calleth it VEDRA. It riseth of three heads in Kelloppeslaw-hill, whereof the most southerlie is called
Burdop,
the middlemost
Wallop,
and the northerliest
Kellop,
which uniting themselves about St Johns chappell, or a little by west thereof, their confluence runneth through Stanhope-parke, by east Yate, and so to Frosterlie. But yer it come there, it receiveth three rilles from the north in Weredale, whereof one cometh in by Stanhope, another west of Woodcroft-hall, and the third at Frosterlie aforementioned; and a little beneath these, a fourth on the southside, which descendeth from southwest by Bolliop, Bishop-sleie, Millhouses, and Landew. Being therefore united all with the Were, this stream goeth on to Wolsingham, there taking in the
Wascropburne,
beside another at Bradleie, the third at Harpleie-hall (and these on the northside) and the fourth, betweene Witton and Witton castell, called
Bedburne,
comming by Hamsterleie, whereby this river doth now wax verie great. Going therefore from hence, it hasteth to Bishop's Akeland▪ and beneath it receiveth the
Garondlesse,
which riseth six miles by west of Akeland castell, and running south thereof, passeth by West-Akeland, St Helens Akeland, St Andrewes Akeland, and Bishops Akeland, and then into the Were, which goeth to Newfield and Willington. Neere unto this place also, and somewhat beneath Sunderland, the Were crosseth one brooke from southwest by Het, Coxseie, Cornefurth, Tursdale, and Croxdale, and two other from by northwest in one botome, whereof the first commeth from above Ash, by Langleie. The other, called
Coue,
from above Kinchleie, by Newbiggin, Lanchester, North Langley, and through Beareparke, and so meeting beneath Kelleie or Hedleie with the other, they fall both as one into the Were, betwene South Sunderland and Burnall. From hence our river goeth on to Howghwell, Shirkeleie, Old Duresme, and there taking in the
Pidding-brooke
by northeast, it goeth to Duresme, Finkeleie, Harbarhouse, Lumleie castell, (where it meeteth with the
Pilis,
whose heads are united betwene Pelton and Whitwell, and after called Hedleie) and from thence to Lampton. Harraton, the Beddikes, Ufferton, Hilton-parke, Bishops Weremouth, and so into the sea betwene North Sunderland and North Weremouth towne, which now is called Monke Weremouth.
, both abounding with fish, and particularly with trout and salmon.
The diocese contains the whole county, and all Northumberland, except eight churches and chapels, being Hexham peculiar, which belongs to York: It has also one parish, viz. Alston-Moor in Cumberland, and claims Craike in the county of York to be under its jurisdiction.
It is divided into two archdeaconries, viz. DURHAM, which has the deanries of Chester, Darlington, Easington, and Stockton; and NORTHUMBERLAND, which compriseth Alnwick, Bamborough, Corbridge, Morpeth, and Newcastle deanries
Willis's Cath. vol. i. p. 221.
.
A VIEW of the CATHEDRAL and CITY of DURHAM from ELVETT MOOR.
THE HISTORY AND ANTIQUITIES OF THE COUNTY PALATINE OF
DURHAM.
THE city of Durham claims our first attention. It is in Easington ward, and lies near the centre of the county, in latitude 54° 50′, and 1° 27′ west longitude from London. From whatever quarter the traveller approaches this place, he is struck with its elegant situation, and the grandeur of some of its public buildings. A few paces from the south road, this English Zion makes a noble appearance. In the centre, the castle and cathedral crown a very lofty eminence, girt by the two streets called the Baileys, enclosed with the remains of the ancient city walls, and skirted with hanging gardens and plantations which descend to the river Were, in this point of view exhibiting the figure of a horse-shoe
This reverend aged abbey is seated in the heart of the citty, advanced upon the shoulders of an high hill, and encompassed againe with the higher hills, that he that hath seene the situation of this citty, hath seene the map of Sion, and may save a journey to the Jerusalem. Shee is girded almost rownd with the renowned river of Weer, in which, as in a glasse of crystall, shee might once have beheld the beauty, but nowe the ruine of her walls.—
Legend of St Cuthbert.
. To form the right wing of this picturesque prospect, the banks on the opposite side of the river are high, rocky, steep, and scattered over with trees; along the brink of which the street of New-Elvet is extended, and terminated by the handsome church of St Oswald: At the bottom runs Old-Elvet. Across the bridge are the streets of Claypeth and St Giles, which climb the more distant eminence, the church terminating the line of buildings. The slopes of the hills are beautified with hanging gardens and rich meadows. Newton-Hall, one of the seats of Sir Henry Liddell, bart. with its adjacent plantations, fills the nearer back-ground; behind which a fine cultivated country is discovered, lengthening the prospect to the distance of ten miles, on which Penshar-Hill, with its peaked brow, is a beautiful object. To form the left wing, the banks opposite to the castle and cathedral are cloathed with wood and fruit-trees; and South-street stretches along the summit. The long canal which the river exhibits to the eye in this part, is crossed by Framwelgate bridge, of two eliptic arches. Crook-Hall, a seat of one of the family of Hopper, is seen on the river's banks, with the woodlands of Newton-Hall on the more distant ground; to the left of which the sweet villa of Francis Johnson,
esq
at Aykley-Heads, is seen, surrounded with irregular mounts
Here, it is alledged, was a dru
lical grove: The b
rrow is now very conspicuous, and resembling those given by Stu
elty
t
and
.
and rising plantations.
Approaching the city from the north, it has the most romantic and uncommon appearance: It seems to be scattered over a multitude of irregular hills, (for the ground by which it is approached is thrown up into round mounts), and we discover various parts of the town, the castle, and churches, through several vallies in one point of view, so that they appear like so many distinct places. The west front of the castle is seen on the summit of a ragged and steep rock, with some parts of the cathedral; and the street of St Giles, as if totally unconnected with the rest of the town, is spread over the brow of a distant eminence. The hollow passes amongst the hills on the north-west of the city, afford beautiful and picturesque prospects. At Castle-Chair, where the view is much confined, the castle and cathedral have a noble appearance; the octagon tower of the former, with the mound on which it is placed, have a grand effect. On the eminence opposite to Shaw-Wood, the view just mentioned is enlarged; yet, the distant branches of the town being intercepted by rising grounds, leave the principal objects in the most distinct and picturesque arrangement. Approaching from the east down the street of St Giles, we command the second noblest view of the city: In front, the river Were forms a fine canal through a rich vale, crossed by Elvet bridge, of seven wet arches, and many other land arches; the town crowds the swift risings of the hill, pile upon pile; the castle and cathedral church crowning the summit of the eminence. To the left are seen the banks of Elvet and the church, flanked by a distant forest of oaks, and the groves which hang on the margin of the river: On the right is a view of Newton-Hall, and the adjacent grounds.—To this general description, more minute particulars will be added as we pass through the city.
A short view of historical facts relative to this place, as each circumstance arose in the respective aeras of our prelates, is given in due order in the preceding volume of this work. It is to be observed, that the first mention as to time, made by old writers of the name of Durham (or Duresme according to the language of those days) is by Hollinshed, in the reign of Athelstan, when, speaking of Sithric's
The
Charter
granted by
Hugh Pudsey
Bishop of Durham to the Burgesses of the City of Durham.
The
Confirmation
of Bishop Pudsey's Charter to the Burgesses of the City of Durham by Pope
Alexander 3d .
sons, Anlaf and Godred, he says,
Godred with a power of men entering into Northumberland, besieged the city of Duresme, soliciting the citizens to receive him, which they would gladly have done, if they had not perceived how he was not of power able to resist the puissance of king Athelstan
Hollinshed's Hist. p. 225.
.
It is evident, from circumstances, that this author adopted a wrong name for the capital of Deira; for the most approved historians concur in relating, that Godred arrived at York, where some of his partisans held the castle, but on Athelstan's approaching, Malmsbury says, it was surrendered and demolished even to the ground, and Godred, in despair, took to piratical courses and a roving life at sea
Rapin, vol. i. p. 100. — Malms. p. 50.—Sax. An.—Hoved.—Hunting.—
Smollet, 4to edit. p. 100.
.
We have not the least evidence of any town where Durham now stands, before the monks rested with the remains of St Cuthbert, after the Danish invasion. It was also remarked in the course of this work, that there is a place adjacent to the present city called Old Durham; but we have neither traces in history nor records to shew that any town existed there previous to St Cuthbert's arrival. The legendary tale, alone supported by the effigies on the north-west tower of the transept of the cathedral church, (which will be described when that edifice is treated of) relates, that after the revelation or vision at
Wedelau,
according to Symeon's text, but
Werdele
by others, and described to lie east of Durham, the monks were much at a loss to find the place pointed out by the oracle, where they should rest from their labour: The name of
Dunholme,
then said to be given them, was not known to any. If they then lay at
Warden Law,
(which from much similarity of name some have conceived was the place of the vision) it was within eight miles; if on the banks of the Were, (where we shall by some observations attempt to ground a supposition that the monks halted) it was to the east of the city, at a very little distance; for that river from its source flows almost due east to Bishop-Auckland, and from thence almost due north to Old Durham. It would have been strange if
Deiraham, Duresme,
or
Dunholme,
a place named from the kingdom of Deira in which it was situated, or some such memorable distinction, had then stood on the scite of Old Durham, and was not known to the inhabitants within so small a distance as Chester, the last residence of the monks. The discovery of the place of their destination occurred to the wanderers accidentally, as the legend relates; for whilst they travelled through the country with uncertain steps, a woman, seeking her cow, was informed by a person she met that she would find it in
Dunholme:
The astonished monks rejoiced at the propitious voice, and followed their fortunate guide, where indeed they found a country flowing with milk and honey. So much for the legend; which we would not have troubled the reader with, but it leads to an argument, that the effigies on the church were placed there in commemoration of the happy possession of the rich meads and vallies on the Were, which could not be more aptly expressed in emblem than by the figure of the bountiful cow distending her udder to dispense charitable gifts to mankind: It was emblematical of the rich country they had obtained, of the gracious gifts of Providence decreed to them, and the holy benevolence of the church. In pursuance of this idea, it is probable the monks, on discovering their destined residence with the pious host which accompanied them, sat down on the plains south-east of the present city, by the brink of the river; and there erected themselves habitations, till they could build a church wherein to deposite the saint's remains: This conjecture has a strict correspondence, not only with the name of
Old Durham,
but of the
Burgus vetus,
(which we shall point out from several records) afterwards granted to the convent. On the one side of this plain was a fortress, perhaps of no less antiquity than the times we are speaking of, called the
Maiden Castle,
In the Gentleman's Magazine for the year 1755, the origin of the name
Maiden,
when annexed to
Way
or
Castle,
is learnedly defined by that great antiquary Mr Pegge, under his then signature of Gemsege: Particularly he says,
To risque a conjecture upon a point so obscure, perhaps it may come from the British word MAD.
pulcher
or
beautiful;
hence possibly may come the Anglo-Saxon word MAID and MAIDEN,
virgo,
which in that case answers exactly to our present expressions
a fair one,
and in the plural
the fair;
a sense undoubtedly very well accommodated to all the three names of
Maiden-Castle, Maiden-Way,
and
Maiden-Hold.
the remains of which are described in the sequel; and on the other side, a peel or castle, as is presumed from the name of the eminence called the Peel-Law or Castle-Hill, though no traces of any such erection are at this time to be seen or found in the forest of oak that grows on the hill. The river runs between the eminences, and almost fills the whole intervening space. The remains of extensive breastworks and trenches are to be seen a little farther up the vale, such as the people of that age used to cast up for the defence of their habitations; and not far distant is an eminence called
Mont-Joye,
from whence the wanderers obtained a view of the Hill of Zion, whereon St Cuthbert was to rest for ever.
Mr Cade of Durham, in his tract on the Roman roads of this county, published in the Archaeologia, vol. vii. p. 74, has taken great pains to trace the works, and entertains an idea that they were the vestiges of a Roman winter-camp.—For the satisfaction of our readers, we shall extract his letter on the subject when we describe those places.
Warden-Law
lies several points to the north-east of the city of Durham, and on the wrong side of the river for the monks to approach Chester from Ripon. The fords are dangerous and uncertain, and even impassable at certain seasons by travellers on foot: Warden-Law is also at a greater distance from Ripon by eight miles than Durham. Such circumstances counterpoise the apparent similarity of names, and induce a belief, that as the religious troop would cross the river Tees either at Neseham, Croft, or Piercebridge, they would seek the fordable passes of the river Were near Durham; and that
Wedelau, Werdale,
and such other names as we find in ancient authors, express the
Dale of Were.
Though names grow corrupt, yet points of the compass must remain; and if the pious host sat down east of Durham, on the banks of the Were, there was no other ground so situated but in the vicinity of Old Durham. This argument shall not be pressed further till we come to describe the ground, in our progress through the county.
Dunholme,
or the eminence on which St Cuthbert was to rest, is described to us as being insufficient for the reception of the multitude that attended the saint, till they had cut down the thickets and forests which grew upon the skirts of the hill. The first work the pious labourers engaged in, was to erect an ark or tabernacle with timber and boughs of trees, where they deposited the saint's body; after which they built a compleat edifice, similar to the churches of that age, which was called the
White Church.
This transaction all the monkish writers fix to the year 995
The learned editor of Camden adds,
And to omit the many pretended miracles, and other passages of less moment, he (Symeon) says further, that the first church erected at Dunholm by bishop Aldwin was,
facta citissime de virgis ecclesiola,
"a little church quickly made of rods;" just such another structure as that which is said to have been first built at Glastenbury, whereof Sir Henry Spelman has given us a draught:
Qui locus non erat inhabitatus vel aedisicatus, sed densissima undiq. sylva totum occupavit.
—
Elenchus Liber, cui tit. Liber Ruber Dun.
. It doth not appear that any habitations were erected for the people on the mount where the church was built, for a considerable time after their coming to Dunholme; for we are told, in the course of three years from the date of the first tabernacle, that a church of stone-work was begun and dedicated by bishop Aldun, wherein the saint's remains were deposited. According to the course of events exhibited by the ancient writers, it was not till after the foundation of Aldun's church was laid; that the forest which grew round the eminence was cut down, and the skirts of the hill were rendered sit for human habitation. Much labour was expended; and all the inhabitants between Coquet and Tees rivers, at the command of the earl of Northumberland, are said to have been employed therein; workmen drawn from a tract of country not less than fifty miles in length: Such was the mighty concourse which on that occasion crowded the banks of the Were
The topography of
Dunholme
at that tyme was, that it was more beholding to nature for fortification than fertilitie; where thick woods both hindred the starres from viewing the earth, and the earth from the prospect of heaven. Here the monkes, with extemporary devotion, instead of a church, built an arbour of boughs for
St. Cuthbert,
and from thence translated it into
Whitkyrk
(for three years); while
Aldwinus
the bishop raised no small building of stone worke for his cathedral church, where all the people betweene
Coqued
and
Tees
three years were at worke, and were paid for their paynes with treasure in heaven, than which there was never a dearer or cheaper way to build churches. Into this new
basilica, St. Cuthbert's
restless body, in the three hundred and ninth yeare after his first buriall, was with all funeral pompe enshrin'd.—
Legend of St Cuthbert.
. From the above circumstances we are led to date the rise of the town of Durham in the opening of the eleventh century. Bishop Aldun did not live to see his design compleated, but left the western part of the edifice, after eighteen years pious care, for his successors to finish.
We hear nothing further of the town of Durham till the year 1040, when, some authors say, it was attacked by Duncan of Scotland; and it seems there were then fortifications, for the townsmen, as reported, sustained the invaders assaults for a long time, and at length made a victorious sally, whereby the enemy were totally routed. The heads of such Scots leaders as fell or were taken prisoners, were sixed on poles round the market-place. The eminence chosen for the first buildings was so steep on every side but one, that it was easily defended against the attacks of an enemy: The weakest part was on the north-east, where Claypeth, or Clayport-gate, now stands, being on the neck of land between the streams of the river: This neck, from brink to brink of the Were, is not much above 200 paces in width in its present state; and there are sufficient appearances on the adjacent ground to encourage a conjecture, that a sluice or moat crossed this narrow part, whereby the whole city could on occasion be compleatly insulated. The name of
Clayport,
as it is stiled in all the ancient writers, appears to be a corruption of
Cluerport,
or the gate of the sluice;
cleur
being a north-country word, in acceptation for a sluice-gate or sluice-board, by which a dam-head is stopped. Leland, who visited this country, in his Itinerary says
I
in. vol. i. p. 81.
,
The towne self of Duresme stondith on a rocky hille: and stondith as men cum from the south cuntre on the ripe of Were, the which water so with his course naturall in a botom windith about, that from Elvet a greate stone bridge of 14 arches, it crepith about the towne to Framagate bridge of 3 arches also on Were, that betwixt thes 2 bridges, or a little lower at St Nicholas, the towne, except the lenght of an arrowshot, is brought
in insulam;
and some hold opinion, that of auncient tyme, Were ran from the place wher now Elvet bridge is, straite down by St Nicholas, now stonding on a hille; and that the other course, part for pollicy, and part by digging of stones for building of the towne and minstre, was made a valley, and so the water course was conveyid that way, but I approve not full this conjecture.
Leland, doubting the truth of the report, does not express his opinion concerning the neck of land which he mentions. Symeon, who gives us the account of the before-mentioned attack on Durham, takes no notice of any fort or strong-hold which contributed to the gallant defence of the inhabitants; but it is probable the mound on which the octagonal tower of the castle stands, was cotemporary with the church, and perhaps formed of the soil, which was necessarily moved when the foundations of that structure were laid. At Warwick there is a mound of the same form, with terraces similar to those at Durham; and Dugdale
Warwickshire, p. 308.
tells us,
If it was presumption to carry its antiquity higher, to refer the foundation thereof to the renowned lady Ethelstede, daughter of king Alfred, and lady of the Mercians, I am sure will not, in regard it appears, that she in 915 (scil. in the 16th year of king Edward the Elder) caused the dungeon to be made, which is a strong tower or platform, upon a large and high mount of earth, artificially raised (such being usually placed towards the side of a castle or fort, which is least defensible) the substance whereof is yet to be seen.
This passage is quoted, to shew the reader there was an example for the people to follow, and that such mounts were of that antiquity. It is said to be the opinion of the ingenious Mr Wright, of Byers-green
Author of Louthiania.
, that this was a Danish mount or fort; but we have no traces in history of that people having a residence here; and indeed the former arguments hold against it, as such a work would have rendered the place notorious to the monks of Chester, at the distance of six miles.
The next event noted in history, wherein Durham is distinguished, was in the year 1069, after the coming in of William the Norman, when he sent down Cumin as governor of Northumberland with a guard of 700 veteran Norman soldiers. Despising bishop Egelwin's caution and advice, Cumin entered the city with marks of cruelty and tyranny, and through the insolence of his own self-sufficiency, permitted his troops to give themselves up to rioting and wantonness; they forcibly took possession of the houses, were dispersed through every quarter of the city, and committed various enormities against the inhabitants. The Normans, overcome with drunkenness and revelling, were totally off their guard; whilst the people of the adjacent country, arming themselves, assembled in the night, and at the dawn of day forced the gates of the city, fell upon the Normans when they suspected no violence, and put them to the sword; so that the streets were filled with blood and carcases, the house where the earl lodged was set on fire, and those within endeavouring to fly were immediately slain, only one wounded person of the whole band escaping death. When the ruthless tyrant William, greedy of revenge, marched his army northward, the affrighted inhabitants of Durham fled the city
Camd. Brit.
; and the monks forsook their convent, leaving the Normans a melancholy solitude, on which to wreak their vengeance by fire and destruction. As soon as the troops retired, the inhabitants came from their hiding places, and the religious host brought back their holy charge after an absence of four months.
The king having appointed Walcher to the bishopric, on his return from an expedition against Malcolm of Scotland in 1072, ordered a castle or fortress to be built at Durham, at once to protect the bishop and his convent, to keep the people in subjection, and to awe the northern territories, this place being esteemed a fit situation for a barrier. It is certain such an edifice was begun about that period of time; but we have no information of what form it was, though the octagonal figure is not unusual in the Norman buildings. It seems, Camden apprehended the castle directed to be built by William was not founded on the scite of any ancient fortress, his words being
in eminentiori collis parte extruxit;
but that a more elevated situation was chosen for the new bulwark than the stronghold alluded to by Gulielmus Gemiticencis, whose words he quotes, describing the fortress:
From whence (he says) the English, dissatisfied with the Norman yoke, made frequent sallies, and kept themselves close there, waiting for the expected approach of the Danes; that it was in a part of the country inaccessible by reason of woods and waters; that it had a strong rampier round it, which they called Dunholme.
This account seems to strengthen the former arguments. William de Malmsbury, whom Camden quotes, and who lived about that time, gives us this description of the city:
Durham is a hill rising gradually from out the valley to its summit; and notwithstanding, by its rugged situation and broken rocks, all access for an enemy is cut off, yet lately they have built a castle upon a hill, at whose foot runs an excellent river.
Dugdale, further speaking of the castle of Warwick, says,
In those days (in the Saxons time I mean) were very few such defensible places as we now call castles, that being a French name; so that though the English were a bold and warlike people, yet, for want of the like strongholds, were they much less able to resist their enemies, which defect gave great advantage to the Norman conqueror after his victory at Hastings; whereof he was so sensible, that he neglected not to raise store of such forts through the whole realm, as I have elsewhere observed, amongst which this at Warwick was not the least.
Bishop Walcher's assumption of the civil jurisdiction, in the character of palatine, it is apprehended brought on the tragical catastrophe before related
See vol. i. p. 130.
, in the month of May, 1080; and the city of Durham, after his death, sustained the assault of the rioters for four days, who, not able to make any impression, dispersed themselves.
William de Carilepho, who succeeded in the bishopric, was among the malecontents on the accession of William Rufus: After the king had quelled the southern insurrections, he sent an army into the north, which laid siege to Durham, and soon reduced the place; the bishop flying into Normandy: On this occasion, the temporalties of the See were seized into the hands of the crown, John de Tailbois and Ernesius de Burone were made governors of the castle and palatinate, and it was not till the year 1091 that the bishop was restored: Soon after that event, he granted, or (if the ancient authorities are not confused on this subject) rather regranted to the convent, Elvet in the order of a borough, where the monks should have forty merchants houses or tradesmen's shops, distinct and separate from the bishop's borough of Durham, that they might trade there, freed from duties payable to the bishop and his successors
Linwood, upon the Provincial,
(ut singula de sensibus)
speaks to this effect:
Aliqui interpretantur Burgum esse Cast
um, vel locum ubi sunt crebra cast
a: vel dicitur Burgus, ubi sunt per limites habitucula plura constituta.
But afterwards defines it thus:
Burgus dici potest villa quoecunq. alia in civitate, in qua est universitas approbata.
—Some derive it from the Greek word
, i. e.
Turris.
See Skene
De Verb Signif.
—Verstegan, in his
Restitution of decayed Intelligence,
saith,
Burg
or
Burgh,
whereof we take our
Borough,
metaphorically signifies a town having a wall or some kind of a closure about it: All places that in old time had amongst our ancestors the name of
Borough,
were one way or other fenced or fortified.—It is doubtful, whether, before the statute of Acton Burnell, goods were devisable but in ancient
Boroughs,
where by prescriptive custom they were usually devised.
. Though we have no previous account of the borough of Durham,
Vol. i. p. 134.
yet by inference we may determine that such borough existed, with exclusive privileges, even till the institution of the borough of Elvet held an entire trade: How this diminution was relished, we are not informed; nor how the new borough supported its authority.
In the time of bishop Flambard
Bishop Flambard was consecrated A. D. 1099, and died 1128.
, whilst the temporalties were in the hands of the crown, it appears by the guardians accounts, the borough of Durham sustained considerable damage by fire
Vol. i. p. 147.
. After the bishop's restoration to the See, he improved the fortifications of the city, by extending the walls between the church and the castle: He removed all the houses on the area between those two edifices, and levelled the ground: He fortified the castle with a moat, strengthened the banks of the river, and built the beautiful bridge called Framwellgate-bridge.
In April 1139, this city entertained the members of congress, when articles of peace were agreed upon; Maud queen of England, with a great number of barons, on the part of that crown, and prince Henry, with many Scotch nobles, on the other part, being present.
King Henry II. during his displeasure with bishop Pudsey, took possession of the castle and city of Durham, and on various pretexts repeatedly deprived him of the custody of this strong place. It was a custom for the burgesses, on the demise of a prelate, to deposite the keys of the city gates at the shrine of St Cuthbert: On the death of bishop Pudsey, the officers of the crown, who had seized the temporalties, took violent possession of the keys contrary to the ancient usage. As the election of a prelate was studiously delayed, and much oppression happened during the vacancy of the See, under the influence of the crown officers, and as a creature of the king succeeded, it is not to be wondered that we hear no further than the mere mention of this infringement of the privilege of the convent.
King Henry III. on his northern excursion, honoured this city with his residence for some short time, during the episcopacy of bishop Farnham.
After the victory of Falkirk, Edward I. halted at Durham, to which place intelligence was brought that the Scots again appeared in force, which obliged the king to march nothward, and he celebrated the festival of Christmas at Tynemouth. In the year 1300, the king was again at Durham, as a mediator between the bishop and his convent, touching their then bitter dissentions.
On Brus's incursion in the time of Edward II. a party of the Scotch, whilst the inhabitants were in their beds, surprised the suburbs of Durham, which they reduced to ashes.
Edward III. with a great army, was at Durham for some time, before the Scotch were discovered to lie in Stanhope-park: In 1333 he was again at Durham, on his march northward, previous to the victory of Hallidown-hill.
The walls of the city of Durham having been neglected, and becoming ruinous, were restored and put into a state of defence by bishop Beaumont, who in 1323 received a severe censure from Edward II. for his negligence in matters so important to his palatinate. On the 23d of December, 1356, Edward III. was at Durham, and issued summonses for the military tenants to attend him on a northern expedition, in which Berwick was besieged and reduced.
In 1424 this city was crowded with the nobility of England and Scotland, on the liberation of the Scotch king, and his marriage with the lady Jane Seymour; the hostages were received here; a truce for seven years was also then settled between the two nations; and certain laws established for the government of the borders: The king and queen of Scotland remained at Durham a considerable time, not departing thence until the last day of March or first of April.
A dreadful visitation of the plague happened here in the time of bishop Langley, which occasioned an
See note to vol. i. p. 271.
adjournment of the assizes, and a total suspension of all public assemblies in the year 1416: It continued to rage for five successive years.
In the time of bishop Nevill, this city was the place of many conventions of the delegates of England and Scotland. In 1448, Henry VI. came here on a Pilgrimage to the shrine of St Cuthbert. In 1463, lord Montague was at Durham with his army, previous to the battle of Hedgley-Moor.
Bishop Fox, on the anniversary of his installation, the 23d of July 1503, entertained, in the great hall of his palace at Durham, the princess Margaret, daughter of Henry VII, in her progress into Scotland, on her espousal with James king of Scotland
The syancells of Margaret, eldest daughter of Henry VII. to James king of Scotland; together with her departure from England, journey into Scotland, her reception and marriage there, and the great feasts held on that account. Written by John Younge, somerset, herald, who attended the said princess on her journey. From a manuscript late in the possession of John Anstis,
esq
garter king at arms.—
De Rebus Anglicanis Opuscula varia.
Lel. Col. vol. iv. p. 275. Edit. 1774.
. July, 1503,
on the 18th day of the monneth, the quene departed fro Newbrough to Allerton; and at the intrygne of the said place, sche was receyved by the vicayr and the folks of the church with the freres Carmelits in processyon. From that place sche was conveyd, as custome was, to the manayr of the said bysschop of Durham.
The xixth day of the said monneth, the quene departed from Allerton, in fayr aray and noble companyd, and Syr James Straungwysch knight, sheryffe for the said lordschyp, for the said bischop mett hyr welle accompanyd.
After sche drew to Darneton to hyr bed, and three mylle from the said place cam to hyr the lord Lomley and hys son, accompanyd of many gentylmen and others welle apoynted, ther folks arayd with their liveray and well monted, to the nombre of xxiiij horsys.
At the village of Nesham she was mett by Syr Rawf Bowes and Syr William Aylton, welle apoynted, with a fayr cumpany arayd in their liverays, to the nombre of xl horsys, well apoynted and well horst.
In the saide place of Nesham was the saide quene receyved with the abbasse and religyouses, with the crosse without the gatt, and the byschop of Durham gaffe hyr the sayd crosse for to kisse. At two mylle ny to the said towne of Darneton, mett the qwene, Syr William Boummer, sheriff of the lordship of Durham. In company with hym was Syr William Ewers, and many other folks of honor of that contre, in fayr ordre, well appoynted of liverays and horst; to the nombre of six score horsys.
By the said company was sche conveyed to Darnton. And at the gatt of the church of the said place, war revested the vicayr and folks of the church, wer doing as sche had done on the dayes before, sche was led to the manayer of the said byschop of Durham for that nyght.
The xxth day of the said monneth the quene departed from Darnton in fayr aray, and with the precedente company went to the town of Durham. A mylle out of the said towne, cam before hyr Syr Richard Stanley and my lady his wyffe, accompanyd of gentlemen and gentlewomen varey well appoynted, hys folks arayd in hys liveray, to the nombre of l. horsys, well mounted.
Then the quene prepared herselfe to enter into the said towne, and every ychon in lyk wys, in fayr aray, and rychely, after the manere acostomed. In specyall the erle of Northumberlaund ware on a goodly gowne of tynsill fourred with hermynes. He was mounted upon a fayr courser, hys harnays of goldsmyth warke, and thorough that sam was sawen small bells that maid a mellodyous noyse, without sparing gambads. Hys gentylmen of honor and hys company wer well appoynted.
At the intryng of the said towne, and within, in the streytts and in the wyndowes was so innumerable people, that it was a fayr thing for to se. And in fayr ordre she was conveyd to the church, the officers of armes, sergeants of armes, trompetts, and mynstrells going before hyr.
At the gatt of the church was my lord the byschop of the sayd place, and my lord the prior, revested in pontificalls, with the convent all revested of ryches copps, in processyon, with the crossys. And ther was apoynted a place for to kisse them.
Then the sayd processyon departed in ordre, and all the noblesse in lyke wys, to the church, in whiche ny to the fount was a ryche awter, adorned of ryches jwells and precyowses relikes, the wich the said bischop delivered to the said qwene to kiss. And by the erle of Surrey was gyffyn hyr offrynge. After this sche was noble conveyd to the castell, wher hyr lodging was prepared and drest honnestly. And every ychon retourned agayn to hys repayre.
The XXIst, XXIId, and XXIIId days of the said monneth sche sejourned in the said place of Durham, wher sche was well cheryscht, and hyr costs borne by the said byschop; who on the XXIIId day held holle hall, and dowble dynner, and dowble soupper to all commers worthy for to be ther. And in the said hall was sett all the noblesse, as well spiritualls as temporalls, grett and small, the wich was welcome; for this was hys day of installacyon.
The XXIIIIth day of the said monneth the qwene departed from Durham, accompayned of hyr noble company, as she had beene in the dayes past, in fayr manere and good ordre, for to com to the towne of the New Castell.
All the nobility and people of distinction of the adjacent counties, together with the ecclesiastics of the neighbouring monasteries, were entertained on this occasion.
Durham was the scene of a bloody execution on the suppression of Nevill's rebellion, no less than sixty-six persons suffering death there. In the year 1589 the plague again broke out and raged in Durham for a considerable time: After abating for some months, which gave hopes that the tremendous visitation was about to cease, it appeared again in 1597 with redoubled violence, so as to oblige the poorer people to be removed into huts and sheds on the adjacent commons, particularly Elvet-Moor, where the marks of arrangement of melancholy cells were distinctly to be observed, before the late inclosures, on the south side of the hill, below the wood. An idea may be formed of the miserable situation of these unhappy people from the account (in the Annals
Vol. i. p. 1139.
of bishop Morton) of the wretched sufferers on Hob-Moor near York: His benevolence, it is to be hoped, was not unrivalled by the ecclesiastics of our city. In 1633, Charles I. was resident at Durham a considerable time with bishop Morton, who entertained him and his whole retinue, at the expence of 1500l. a day.
Having recapitulated the most memorable events in which Durham was particularly concerned, attention will be paid in the next place to the government of the borough or city
Extracts from the Boldon Buke.
Dunelm. Erat autem civitas Dunelm. ad firmam et reddebat quatringinti marcas.
Molendina ejusdem villae et Queringdonshire xxxvj marcas.
Cunci monetae solebant reddere x marcas, sed d'nus rex Henricus secundus per cuneos quos in Novo Castello primum posuit, redditus x marcar. usque ad tres marcas diminuitur, et ad ultimum cuneos a multis retro temporibus habitos abstulit.
Terra Reginaldi Fullonis in eadem villa reddit tres solidos.
Terra Lefwyni praepositi ultra aquam juxta pratam xvjd.
Terra Gual
ranni de Cestria ibid. viijd.
Turstinus de Capella tenet unum tostum juxta virgultum d'ni episcopi de accommodatione et elemosina ipsius episcopi.
Firmum de eadem villa x marcas.
Hatfield's Survey.
Mag. hospitalis de Kypier tenet quandam terram infra port. ballij borial. quondam Radulphi de Whitwell et red. p. ann. xijd.
Capellanu
Cantariae S. Jacobi super nov. pontem tenet j. ten. et — cum prato vocat le Mylnermydowe juxta molend. red. p. ann. v
.
Commorar. Dunolm. tenet. j. ten. in ballio quondam Roberti Leycestr. et red. p. ann. ijs.
Rector ecclesiae B. Ma
iae in ball. borial. tenet j. ten. extra port. borial. juxta venell. red. vs.
Elemos. Dunolm. tenet cert. ten. infra ball. Dunolm. cum quodam gardin. quondam — Lyghtfote red. iijs.
Johannes Kylinghall tenet j. gardin. sub mot. castri extra le Kyngesgate quondam Henry Olyndershaw ijs.
Johannes Bowman tenet j. seldam sub le Tollebothe red. p. ann. vjs. viijd.
Johannes Chestr. barber tenet j. plac. sub le Heugh quondam Nicholai molend. cum multis aliis.
Alanus de Bylingham, &c. et alij tenentes ibid. tenent burg. Dunelm. ad firm. cum tolnet. molend. redd. burg. cum forisfactur. tolnet. transeuntium et for — eorund. reddendo per ann. &c. ad terminum trium annorum hoc anno secundo per equales portiones xxiiij
l.
. The ancient government of the borough was, like others of the same antiquity and dignity, by a bailiff, who was nominated by the bishop. In royal franchises the title of
bailiff
is retained to this day, as
(inter alias)
the chief bailiff of the liberty and franchise of Richmond and Richmondshire; and the bishop having
jura regalia,
his bailiff held jurisdiction of the franchise of the borough of Durham
By the inquisitions
post mortem,
taken of the borough lands and tenements, we find the following particulars of their tenure.
A burg. in the bor. of Durh. was held
per servic. pro landmale
ballio burg. Dun." Inq. p. m. John de Wodesende, a'o 5o Hatfield.
Wm Fleshewer held of the lord bishop
in capite
a burg. in the bor. of Durh. called Archia Inferior, by fealty, three suits to the borough court and 12
d.
rent.
Patricius Calice and Agnes his wife took of the lord bishop 2 acres of land in Framwelgate, at 16
d.
rent, payable at the Tollboth for
landmale,
a'o xio Hatfield ap. Dun. cor. R. de Boghes vic. Dun.
John Bille d. seised of 2 mess. in Claipworth, by suit at the Tollboth, &c. a'o 12o Hatfield, cor. J. de Birland vic. Dun.
Peter Burngham held, &c. a burg. in Framwelgate by hom. fealty, rent 1¼
d.
at the Tollboth, and three suits there, &c. a'o 14o Hatfield, cor. W. de Claxton esc. in co. Dun.
Johanna de Luceby held, &c. a mess. &c. by fealty, 6
d.
rent and three suits at the borough court, and paying towards the maintenance of a light before the crucifix in the church of St Nicholas in Durham 4 lb. of wax a'o 23o Hatfield, cor. W. de Menevillvic. Dun.
John Hoton d. s. of 6 burg. in the borough of Durham, held of the lord bishop in burgage tenure, &c. a'o 15o Langley.—Cum multis aliis.
. In the statute of Marlebridge
52 Hen. III. c. 2. Cok. Inst. fo. 105.
the words are,
Ubi balivam habeat vel jurisdictionem;
and counties are called the sheriffs bailiwics. Many considerable towns are governed by bailiffs to this day, as Ipswich, Yarmouth, Colchester, and sundry others. In the time of bishop Nevill, this officer of the borough began to be stiled
bailiff of the city of Durham;
but no cause is assigned for avoiding the name of
borough,
and substituting that of
city.
The name of
city,
even by the ancient statutes and law authorities, is indefinite and uncertain in application, being adopted in many instances, and in this case appears to have been used as a name of modern acceptation, without meaning to express any superior dignities; for Durham was the capital of the palatinate, as well whilst called a borough as a city
A. D. 1307. Ballivus e'pi Dun. Ad petic'o'em ejusdem ballivi, petentis remedium sup. eo q'd cum regal. libertas e'patus capta sit in manu regis certis de causis, custos dicti e'patus impedit ipsum episcopum, quod non possit habere curiam suam baron. sicut alii liberi dicti e'patus habent, et etiam idem custos levare fecil blad. ad valene. xi lb. de villanis dicti e'pi pro sustentatione coronatorum et subballivorum regis ibidem, et non distringit aliquem liberum seu villanum in dicto e'patu pro hujusmodi sustentac'o'e nisi tantummodo villanos dicti e'pi. Et preterea idem custos cepit in manum domini regis
Burgum Dunelm. Derlington, Aukeland, Stoketon, and Gatisheved,
et mereat et tolnet in dicto e'patu et tenet curias ibidem et capit prosicua, et jam duo brevia de recto pendet in curia ipsius e'pi et ballivi sui non possunt ingredi cur. praedictam ad saciend. p'tibus justiciam, &c. Ita responsum est, mittatur sub pede sigilli cancellar▪ ista petitio Rogero le Branbanzon et sociis suis, &c. coram quibus judicium redditum suit de regali libertate capiend. in manum regis, et ipsi super hoc ordinent remedium competens quoad omnes istos articulos.—
Ryley's Pleas in Pa
l. p. 352.
.
We are totally ignorant what privileges this place anciently enjoyed as a borough. The munificent prelate, Hugh Pudsey, after the disputes with his sovereign subsided, granted a written charter to the burgesses of Durham, which was the first charter the borough received: The people of Durham are therein stiled burgesses, we presume, from their inhabiting within the gates of a walled town, and under the protection of a fortress, where they carried on a secure trade, and perhaps held certain customs established by successive prelates. By this charter, of which the plate is a
fac-simile,
the people were for ever thereafter discharged from the customs of in-toll and out-toll for all their merchandizes; they were also exempted from heriots, a duty or tribute established in very distant antiquity, and in the Saxon times given to the lord for his better maintenance in war. Most of the ancient writers have distinguished heriots in two branches, heriot custom and heriot service: Law definitions have little right to a place here; it must suffice to say, that both denominate an estate of inheritance, and the heriot service a fee-simple. But the fourth exemption by this charter is most singular; it is a discharge from the custom of
marchet:
This was the old borough custom
Marchet—turpis Scotorum veterum consuetudo, qua territorii dominus vassalli sponsam prima nocte comprimeret,
lorem
que
carperet pudicitiae.—Spelman's
loss. p. 397.
King Evenus did wickedlie ordaine, that the lord or maister of the ground or land suld have the first nicht of ilk maried woman within the famin. The quhilk ordonance was after abrogate be king Malcome the Third, quha ordained, that the bridegroome suld have the use of his awin wise, and therefore suld pay ane peece of money called
marca.
(Hector Boetius, lib. 3. c. 12.) For the quhilk certain kye was used to be paid (lib. 4.
Cap. Sciendum
63.) Bot utherwaies, in my opinion,
mark
or
march
signifieth ane horse: In the auld French, Irish, and Dutch tounges (for in the French toung,
marcher
is to ride or gang, &c. &c.) I think that
marcheta mulieris
is the raide of the woman, or the first carnall copulation and conjunction with her; quhilk, in respect of hir virginitie, is maist esteemed be men. Quhilk interpretation is confirmed alswa be Cuiac, lib. 1.
de fendi.
—Expository to
Regiam Majestatem,
by John Skene.
Et debet tallagium, fectam curiae et
merchet
hoc modo, quod si voluerit maritare filiam suam cum quodam homine libero extra villam faciet pacem cum Dom. pro maritagio — Et si eam maritaverit alicui, custumario villae nihil dabit pro maritagio. Et dabit duplex heriotum, &c.—Spelman's Glossary.
Consuetudo pecuniaria, in mancipiorum siliabus maritandis.—Bract. lib. ii. cap. 8. Vide Spelman, who defines it in like manner.—Coke on Lit. sol. 148, says it was called Marchet, as it were a che
e or sine for marriage.—In the manor of Denever, in the county of Caermarthen, 10 s. is paid to the lord there, called Gwbr-merched. — In the manor of Biulth, in Radnorshire, a noble is paid to the lord.—See Pennant's Welch Tour, vol. i. p. 221.
The plate of bishop Pudsey's charter, with the confirmation by pope Alexander III. was given to this work by Mr George Allan. When this was engraved, the originals were in the hands of Christ. Fawcett,
esq
of Newcastle, who lent them to Mr Allan to copy, and have since been delivered up to the corporation.
Pope Alexander III. was elected 6th Sept. 1159, and died in 1181, having reigned 21 years, 11 month and 22 days.
The seal to the confirmation is of lead, appendant by a yellow and crimson silk string. Popes bulls are public writings, issued from the Roman Chancery, commonly sealed with lead, and are the same with edic
, letters patent, and provisions of secular princes: If they are letters of grace and favour, the lead is hung on silk thread; if they be of justice, and executory, the lead is hung by an hempen cord. Such instruments are declared to be void in England by an act 28 Hen. VIII.
There are a great many in the Chapter-house at Durham, particularly one of pope Clement VII. A. D.
24. with the seal of solid gold, confirming the title of
sidei defensor
to Hen. VIII.
Collier, in his Geographical Dictionary, says, "The council held at Lateran was on the 5th of March, 1179. where pope Alexander III. was assisted by 300 bishops."
, and brings ludicrous ideas, when one considers it had relation to a prelate's borough. When the barbarous customs of our ancestors began to be corrected through the medium of more polished manners, and learning had diffused a liberality of sentiment, this brutal and absurd mark of the vilest vassalage was commuted for a money payment. In various parts of this island the custom bore different names; in some places the
marchet,
in others
maiden-rents,
and in Wales
gwabr-marched;
all distinguishing a mulct paid to the lord for the marriage of a vassal's daughter, and originally commuted for his right with the virgin bride. The additional bounty to the borough, which has reference to the free customs of Newcastle, may not be so easily explained, no historian having hitherto informed us what were the original privileges of Newcastle, or by whom they were granted. If in the laborious researches of the reverend Mr Brand this may be discovered, it will add new light to the history of our city, whose burgesses, by this grant, were entitled to hold all such free customs as the burgesses of Newcastle enjoyed
Joh'es Dei gra. &c: Sciatis nos concessisse et hac carta n'ra confirmasse burgensibus n'ris de Novo Castro sup. Tinam pro fideli servicio suo et heredibus eor. imperpetuum q'd nullus eor. per aliquem distringat. extra eundem burgum ad reddendum alicui debitum aliquod unde non sit capital. debitor vel plegius. Concessimus etiam eis gildam mercatoriam et quod nullus eor. fac duellum, &c: —
E. MS. Dun. Eccl. lib. iv. cap. 26. fol. 28.
. This prelate improved the city greatly by building Elvet bridge, and continuing the city wall from the North-gate, now called the Gaol-gate to the South-gate, or Water-gate.
The city continued under the government of its bailiff from the time of bishop Pudsey till after the Reformation. Indeed we find a superintendent appointed to regulate the merchandise, who took the title of
marshal,
or
clerk of the markets,
and he had the custody of the
alnage-seal,
not only for the city of Durham, but the province at large. He was an officer appointed by virtue of the
jura regalia,
in pursuance of the statute of the 25th of Edw. III. and subsequent laws, and collected the duties payable on cloths, and by his seal distinguished their quality. In 1448, bishop Nevill granted to Robert Kelsey,
esq
the office of marshal, or clerk of all the markets within the bishopric of Durham, and also keeper of his alnage-seal, to be exercised by himself or his sufficient deputies, under the yearly rent of 13s. 4d. to be paid into the bishop's exchequer
R. &c. o'ib's balivis et sid. suis ad quos, &c. s. Sciatis q'd nos de fidelitate circu'spec'o'e et industria dil'ci armig'i n'ri Rob. Kelsey, plenius co'siden. ac de gra. n'ra spi'ali ac p. bono et g'tuito s'vic'o q'd id R. nob. et eccl. n're Dun. a diu impendit, et in suturu. nob. et succ. n'ris ac eccl'e n're p'd'ce impende
, co'cessimus et dedimus eid. R. officiu. mariscalcie sive clerici m'cati n'ri o'in. et si'g'lor. e
itat. burgor. et villar. infra e'pat. n'ru. Dun. necnon custodium figilli ulnagii nostri infra epat. n'rum Dunelm. p'd. l
'end.
enend. occupand. et ex'eend. offic. et custod. p'd. eid. R. a t'mi'o vite sue p. se vel suffici
n. deputatum sive deputatos suos sufficientes p. quo v'l p. quib's nob. et succ. n'ris respondere volucrunt, una
u. o'ib's et si'g lis com'oditab's p'ficuis advantagijs et emolume'tis quibuscu'q. inde p'venien. reddend. inde an. nob. et succ. n'ris p'd'cis ad sace'm n'ra Dun. xiij
s.
iiij
d.
absq. aliquo compo. seu raciocinio nob. et succ. n'ris p'd'eis aut alieni officiario n'ro aut succ. n'ror. p'd'cor. p'inde reddend. Dantes et co'cedentes eid. R. plena. (tenore p'sentiu.) p'tatem faciend. et ex'cend. o'ia et si'g'la que ad offic. et custodium p'd'ca. debent p'tinent faciend. exertend. et exequend. Damus univ'sis et si'g'lis constabilariis,
alivis, firmarii
, p'positis et cum'mub's tenentib's et subditis n'ris civitat. burgor. et villar. p'd'car. firmit. in madatis, q'd eid. R. in p'mistis faciend. ex'cend. et execuend, intendentes sint obedientes, co'sulentes, facientes, et auxiliantes p'nt decet. In c. rei, &c pat. dat. &c. duodeci'o d. Janu. a'o p. n'ri undeci'o.—
P. bre. de pr. sig.—Rot. M. Nevill, No 115.
. Though this is the first record met with, yet from various evidence we are led to determine, it was not an office then originally instituted in this city, but had taken place in consequence of the before-mentioned statute. Antecedent to the creation of aldermen, mayors, and other chief officers of incorporated towns, the marshal of the markets was an appointment absolutely necessary to the subject at large, for the prevention of fraud, and encouragement of fair trading. This was one of the badges of regality; for the marshal or clerk of the markets was an officer of the king's house
1 Edw. IV. c. 1. 13 Rich. II. c. 4.—Fleta, lib. ii. c. 1. Britton, &c.
, of whom Britton, rehearsing the law, says,
We will that none have measures in the realm but we ourselves, but that every man take his measures and weights from our standards.
The burgesses by the foregoing charter were exempted from
in-toll
and
out-toll,
but foreign merchants bringing in their merchandise, were subject to certain duties imposed by and payable to the bishop. The bishop for the time being imposed those duties on various special occasions, particularly as a tallage or aid, for the inhabitants of the city, towards repairing and maintaining the city walls
Murage.
. In bishop Bury's time, we have a record of the revocation of a grant of this nature, dated the 13th of April 1345
See notes to vol. i. p. 295.
. In the year 1377, bishop Hatfield granted to the inhabitants of Durham, by the title of
Burgensibus & aliis probis hominibus in civitate n'ra Dun.
certain duties for divers wares coming into the city, as an aid for supporting the walls and pavements of the place
See notes to vol. i. p. 309.
; and in bishop Fordham's time an inquisition was taken of the receipt and application of such duties, dated the 14th of January 1385
Joh'es Dei gra. ep. Dun. dil. et fid. suis Rad'o de Eure chiv. Tho. de Claxton, Walt'o de Hawyk, Will'o Blakeden, Joh'i Sadburye, et Joh'i Lewyn, s. Quia datum est nob. intelligi, q'd div'si ho'i'es vill. n're Dun. p'textu div'sar. l'rar. p'bis ho'ib's vill. p'd'ce in auxiliu. rep'ac'o's et emendac'o's clausure ville p'd'ce p. d'nu. Tho nup. ep'u. Dun. predecess. n'rum co'cessar. non modicas pecuniar. sum'as de reb's venal. ad villam p'd'cam venien. receperunt et colligerunt et denarios sic receptos et collectos, quos in repar'c'o'e et emendac'one clausure p'd. apposuisse debuerant, p. majori p'te in suos proprios usus converterunt, et penes se retinuerunt et adhuc retinent in n'ri dampnu. non modicum et deteriorac'o'em vill. p'd'ce. Nos volen. maliciis h'mo'i collector. in hac p'te obviare, et d. sic collectos in rep'ac'o'em et ame'dac'o'em clausure p'd. apponi sacere, ut decet. assign. vos 5. 4. 3, v'l duos v'ru. ad inquirend. p. sacr. p'bor. et legaliu. ho'i'u. de co. Dun. p. quos rei v'itas melius sciri pot'it de no'ib's o'iu. et fi'g'lor. ad custumas de reb's venal. ad d'cam villam adductis in ead. villa ex cau. p'd'ca levand. et colligend. deputator. et p. q'ntu. te'pus sic deputati custumas h'mo'i de toto te'pore tam d'ni Tho. nup. e'pi D. p'd. n'ri q'm de toto te'pore n'ro recep'unt et sic levaverunt et qua' sum'am denariorum de custumis p'd. p. ipsos sic levator. in reparac'o'e et emendae'o'e clausure p'd. apposuerunt. Et qua' sum'am inde pen. se retinuerunt et adhuc retinent, necnon ad compot. p'd'cor. collector in hac p'te see'd'm legem, &c. in rep'ac'o'em et eme'dac'o'em clausure p'd'ce p'ut vob. melius visu. fuerit, apponi faciend. &c. expediri. Et ideo vob. mandamus, &c. In cuj. &c. dat. Dun. p. m. W. de Elmeden, &c. xiiij d. Jan a'o p. n'ri quinto (14 Jan. 1385.—Rot. Fordham Sch. 8, No. 2.—
Randal's MSS.
; and of the same date a demise was granted for six years of the revenues of the city
Tho. Tuddowe et Joh. Custson nup. firmarij ville Dun. ven'unt in cane. Dun. xiiii die Janu. a'o p. d'ni Joh'is e'pi Dun. quinto et fursum reddiderunt villam Dun. Rad'o de Eure tunc sene
allo q'm h'
e
nt ad firmam et gratis concesserunt se esse computabiles Wo de Shrimeton, Hen de Shirburne, Will'o Kyowe, et sociis suis, nunc firmariis p'd. ville de exit. et p'ficuis ejusd. ville a sesto Circumcisionis D
ui a'o p'd. d'ni e'pi quarto usq. diem lune p'x post s'm S'ci Hillar. p'd'eo anno quinto. Quam quid. villen. pred. senesc. p'satis Wo de Shrimeton, Hen. de Shirburne, Wo de Kyowe. et sociis suis, fe d
rt ad sunt in eu. o'i'lb's exit. et p'sic. ejusd. ville. H'end. a p'd'eo festo Circu'cisionis usq. ad sine. sex ann
. extu'c p'
sequen. plen'ie completor.—Rot. Fordham Sch. 8, No 1.—
Ibid.
. Before any charter was granted for the government of the burgesses, the several crafts, who exercised their trades within the city, were under special restrictions and bye-laws, framed by themselves, and confirmed by the prelates in whose times they were respectively instituted, thus obtaining the force of a charter
No 10. Rob'ti Nevill, e'pi.—Joh'is Burn, W. Lethom (et 15 al.) sutores sive alut. ex cor. unanim
coufensu et assensu p. se et o'i'bus alijs eadem arte imposterum infra d'cam civitat. uten. quantum, &c.
die Nov. anno pont. &c. coram ip'o d'no e'po in canc. sua Dun. p'sonalit. constitut. recogn. se et quemli't eor. debere et forisfacere d'eo d'no e'po et succ'or. &c. xx
s.
p. vic. Dunelm. p. t'pore existen. de bonis et catallis suis, &c. levand. et etiam forisfacere xx
s.
p. mag'rum artis sue p. t'pore existen. ad sustentac. cujusd'm luminis sui vocat. luminis corporis Christi de bonis et catallis suis, &c. levand. et disponend. quotiens et quando aliquis p'd'c'or. Joh'is, Will'i, &c. vel aliquis alius d'ca arte in p'f't. civitat. impost'um utens conducat recipiat seu detineat in s'vicio suo aut arte qua utitur sive infra mansum suum vel extra aliquem Scotum infra rega. Scotie nativ. ultra duos dies postquam per aliquem officiar. &c. et coram cancellar. Dunelm. inde convictus, &c.
The like recognizance from the fullers to the bishop to the same purport.—Cursitors Rolls.—Rudd's MSS.
An exemplification of the agreement of the weavers is among the rolls of the 13th year of bishop Neville, the preamble of which is to the following effect:—
In the worship of God, and the susteniac'on of the procession and the play on Corpus Christi day, in the city of Durham, after the old custom, for the wele, profit, and right of all the king's people, it is ordained and assented by all them that occupy the weaver craft in the said city of Durham,
&c. That they meet yearly, and choose two wardens and searchers; that they make procession on Corpus Christi day;
and to play, and gar to play, the play that of old time longes to yaire craft,
penalty 6 d. To obey the ordonances stipulated by the wardens, under the penalty of iiij d. That no one shall set up and exercise his trade, till his looms and his proficiency in the trade be certified by the wardens, under the penalty of 6s. 8d. No Scotchman to be taken apprentice, penalty 6s. 8d. No one to weave till he has taken oath before the bishop's officers in the city court,
to be trewe, and trewely to occupy and use his craft to the proset of the co'mon people, and no dissaite to use in his craft, and trewly on his party to fulfill his ordonance on pain of xx s.
—Imprisonment on refusing to take the oaths. Also that no man shall go into
the said city, to desire no other man, customers, or werk from him,
penalty 3 s. 4 d. to the bishop, and 3 s. 4 d. to the craft.—Will'm of Nesse, of Framwelgate, and John Frank of Clayport, first wardens.—Exemplification dated xxo die Septr. anno &c. 13o .
In the time of bishop Booth, the bye-laws and ordinances of the cordwainers were exemplified and enrolled, greatly similar to those of the weavers; dated the last day of January, 1463. Bishop James granted a confirmation thereof by letters patent, dated 27th Sept. 1582.
In the time of bishop Tunstall, the bye-laws, &c. of the goldsmith craft, plumber craft, pewterer craft, potter craft, glazier craft, and painter craft, were confirmed and ratified by that prelate; witnessed by Robt Hyndmers, chancellor, 22d May, in the third year of his translation.
In the time of bishop Pilkington, the bye-laws, &c. of the mercer craft were confirmed and ratified by that prelate; witnessed by Robt Swift, chancellor, 6th Oct. 3d of Eliz.
In the time of bishop James, the bye-laws, &c. of those professing the art or mystery of rough masons, wallers, slaters, paviors, tylers, and plaisterers, were confirmed by that prelate the 21st Jan. 1609, and enrolled the 13th Sept. 1615, in the Heralds book, by Rich. St George, king of arms.
In bishop Morton's time, a charter was granted to the rough masons, wallers, slaters, paviors, plaisterers, and bricklayers, whereby they were incorporated and made a body politic, by the name of wardens, stewards, and searchers of the company of free masons, rough masons, wallers, slaters, paviors, plaisterers, and bricklayers. And the same was made patent; dated the 16th Apr. 1638; and enrolled in the close tolls of the Chancery at Durham.
The sadlers have no charter or confirmation, under seal, of their bye-laws; but a long roll of orders and bye-laws, signed by the several members as they are admitted, beginning 28th Feb. 1628, and confirmed by the whole trade 4th Feb. 1688.
[Mr Rudd's MSS. contain a full copy of the above instruments.]
Inquisitio capt. in thelonio Dunelm. xo Maij 1468, cor. Ric'o Raket senesc. cur. burgi Dunelm. inter textores voc. wolne-websters & textores voc. chalon-websters, sup. textura pannor. The jurors said, Q'd textores voc. wolne-websters a tempore &c usi fuerunt pannu. lanen. & pannu. lineum voc. playnlyn, caresay, seckeloth & Celicia operare, & d'ei textores vocati chalon-websters &c tapstre werk, Say, worset, motleys, tweled werk & dyaper &c &c.—Rudd's MSS.
[This shews the manufactories carried on at that period.]
.
The city continued under the before-mentioned government till bishop Pilkington granted the burgesses a charter of incorporation, dated the 30th day of January 1565
Jacobus, Dei gratia, e'pus Dunelm. Omnibus ad quos presentes literae pervenerint, salutem. Sciatis, quod nos de gratia nostra speciali ac ex certa scientia et mero motu n'ris concessimus, et p. praesentes concedimus et volumnus pro nobis et successoribus n'ris, quod omnes illi qui modo sunt habitantes, aut qui imposterum de tempore in tempus habitabunt infra civitatem n'ram Dunelm. et Framwelgate, in comitatu Dunelm. sint et erunt re, facto, et nomine, una societas et unum corpus de se imperpetuum, et habeant successionem perpetuam. Et ulterius assignavimus, nominavimus, constituimus, fecimus et ordinavimus, ac
praesentes assignamus, nominamus, constituimus, facimus et ordinamus difectum mihi in Christo Christoferum Sewerties unum habitantium infra predict. civitatem Dunelm. sore aldermanum infra dictam civitatem Dunelm. et Framwelgate, ad regend. et gubernand. eand. civitatem et Fram. usq. quartum diem Octobris p'ximum futurum. Ac etiam assignavimus, nominavimus, constituimus, ordinavimus et fecimus per praesentes dilectos nobis in Christo, Will'um Walton, Will'um Wright, Rob'tum Anderson, Christoferuum Mayor, Thomam Knighton, Hugonem Whitfield, Edwardum Hudspeth, Petrum Pattenson, Will'um Harper, Gilbertum Nixon, Edwardum Renelley, et Johannem Anderson, xij burgentium habitantium infra predict. civitatem fore auxiliantes et assistentes prefato aldermano et successoribus suis durantibus separalibus vitis predictorum Will'i Walton, Will'i Wright, Rob'ti Anderson, Christoseri Mayor, Thom. Knighton, Hug. Whitfield. Edw. Hudspeth, Petri Pattenson, Will i Harper, Gilb'ti Nixon, Edw. Renelley, et Joh'em Anderson, xij burgensium habitantium infra. pred. civitatem sore auxiliantes et assistentes prefato aldermano et successoribus suis durantibus seperalibus vitis predictor. Will'i Walton, Will'i Wright, Rob. Anderson, Chr. Mayor, T. Knighton, H. Whitfield, E. Hudspeth, P. Pattenson, Will'i Harper, G. Nixon, E. Renelley, et J. Anderson. dummodo predicti xij burgenses honeste se gesserint et e'po Dun. pro tempore existenti aliter visum non fuerit: Et ulterius assignavimus, nominavimus, ordinavimus, constituimus et feelmus p. praesentes q'd predict. aldermanus et xij burgenses predicti, ac omnes alij habitantes infra dictam civitatem Dun. et Framw. de cetero sint in re, facto, et nomine, unum corpus incorporatum de se imp'petuum per nomen aldermani et burgensium infra civitat. Dunelm. et Framw. ac ipsos aldermanum et burgenses infra civitat. predict. et Framwelgate p. praesentes incorporamus, stabilimus et unimus ac corpus corporatum p. nomen aldermani et burgensium infra civitat. Dun. imp'petuum duratur realiter et ad plenum creamus, erigimus, ordinamus, facimus et constituimus p. praesentes. Et q'd habeant successionem p'petuam. Ac etiam volumus et pro nobis et successoribus n'ris p. presentes concedimus prefat. aldermano et burgensibus infra predictam civitatem Dunelm. et Framwelgate et successoribus suis imp'petuum, q'd aldermanus et xij burgenses pred. et eor. successores quotannis de anno in annum tertio die Octobris assignabunt, nominabunt et eligent duodecim alios ex discretioribus viris qui tunc erunt inhabitantes et pro tempore existentes infra predict. civitatem et Framwde tempore in tempus imperpetuum, qui quidem xxiiij burgenses sic nominati, assignati, et electi (publicis precationibus cum litania aut concione prius habita) annuatim quarto die Octobris in thelonio seu in aliquo alio loco convenient infra pred. civitatem vijs et modis, quibus eis seu majori parti eorum placuerit, nominabunt, assignabunt et eligent, et nominare, assignare et eligere possint et valeant imp'petuum unum de ead. societate pro tempore existent. fore aldermanum infra pred. civitatem et Framw. pro uno anno integro: Ac xij burgenses et habitantes de ead. societate pro tempore existent. fore auxiliantes et assistentes alderman. infra cand. civitat. et Framw. pro uno anno integro tunc proxime sequent. Ac q'd illo qui erit nominatus, assignatus, et electus p. majorem partem pred. burgensium ad
unc et ibid. present. erit aldermanus infra eand. civitat. et Framw. et geret officium aldermani infra cand. civ. et Framw. pro uno anno integro extunc proxime sequent. que quidem persona sic eligenda et nominanda essendi aldermanus infra eand. civ. et Framw. prestabit corporale juramentum coram e'po Dun. pro tempore existent. seu coram cancellario dicti e'pi pro tempore existent. si idem e'pus non crit infra e'patum Dunelm. pro fideli exercitione et vera exercitio os
eij sui pr
d. cujus quidem juramenti tenor sequitur in hec verba:
I shall truth and faith beare to our soveraigne lady the queen's majesty, her heires and successors, kings and queens of England; and to the bushopp of Duresme and his successors, bushops of Duresme. And all such acts and orders as I shall consent and agree unto to be made shall be for the commonwealth of the city of Duresme and Framw. and shall att noe time or times hereafter goe about to make any private orders against the privileges of the bushopp of Durham, nor for the onely profit of myselfe, nor of any other private person or persons, or consent or agree unto the same: And also I shall at all and every time and times hereafter go about by word, will, and consent, well and truely to execute every point, article, and agreement conteined in the corporation to the burgesses and inhabitants of the said city and Framw. granted, to my power: and also to keepe my lord's counsell, my fellowes, and my owne. Soe helpe me God, and by the contents of this book.
Volumus tamen per presentes q'd toties quoties contigerit quod pred. aldermanus et burgenses pred. b
ne concordare non, possunt de eod. aldermano eligendo in et sup. presat. quarto die Oct. ante solis occasum
unc is pro aldermano illius anni tunc proximè sequent. erit et habebitur qu
m' nos aut successores n'ri, si infra regnum sucrimus, quod si extra regnum nos aut successores n'ros esse contigerit, tunc is erit aldermanus dicta civitatis pro uno anno integro proximè sequent. quem canc
llarius
'pi Dunelm. pro tempore existens nominaverit et assignaverit. Et ulterius volumus et p. presentes concedimus prefato aldermano et burgentibus infra pred. civitatem, q'd si contingat aliquam p'sonam exist
ntem aldermanum ejusd. civitatis obire durante anno quo officium aldermani ejusd. civitatis geret vel gerere deberet, vel ab eod. officio infra annum ex cuacunq. causa rationabili et p.
'pam Dunelm. p. tempore existent. approb
nda deprivani vel removeri, q'd tunc pred. xxiiij burgenses habebunt potestatem, ut praesentur, nominandi, assignandi, cligendi (qui tunc crunt infra pred. civitatem et Framw.) vel major pars eorum ad tale tempus quale eis bonum et idoneum videbitur, infra spatium quatuor decim dierum tunc proximè sequentium in thelonio seu in aliquo alio loco convenient. infra pred. civitat. vijs et modis quibus eis placuerit, nominabunt, assignabunt et eligent, ac nominare, assignare et eligere possint et valeant, unum de ead. societate pro tempore existent. fore aldermanum ejusd. societatis abinde usque ad quartum diem Octobris post hujusmodi deprivationem, mortem, vel remotionem, ac quod ille qui sic erit nominatus et electus geret officium aldermani societatis predicti usque dictum quartum diem Octobris extunc proxime sequentem, nisi cum interim ex causa rationabili ut prefertur removeri contigerit, que quidem persona sic electa et nominata essendi aldermanus dictae civitatis prestabit, predictum corporale juramentum coram e'po Dunelm. pro tempore existent. Et si idem e'pus non fuerit tunc infra dictum comitatum Dunelm. coram cancellario dicti e'pi pro tempore existent. pro fideli exercitione et vero exercitio officii sui pred. modo et forma supradictis. Et si aliquis de societate pred. qui erit nominatus, assignatus, et electus modo et forma predict. fore aldermanum recusaverit idem officium gerere vel juramentum pred. in forma pred. prestare et suscipere, tunc ipse sic recusans forisfaciet dicto e'po protempore existenti quinq. libras, et societati predictae et burgensibus de burgo et civitate predicta quinq. libras. Volumus etiam et per praesentes pro nobis et successoribus n'ris concedimus prefato aldermano et burgensibus et successoribus suis imp'petuum, quod si contingat aliquem dictorum xii burgensium obire vel ex quacunq. causa rationabili et p. e'pum Dunelm. pro tempore existentem approbanda deprivari vel removeri, q'd tunc aldermanus dictae civitatis pro tempore existens et pred. xxiiij burgenses habebunt potestatem annuatim, ut prefertur, nominandi, assiguandi, et eligendi (qui tunc erunt praesentes infra dict. civitat. et Framw. vel major pars corum) de tempore in tempus ad tale tempus quale eis bonum et idoneum videbitur, infra spatium quatuor decim dicrum extunc proximè sequentium nominabunt, assignabunt et eligent, ac nominare, assignare et eligere possint, modo et forma praedict. unum de dicta societate pred. civitatis et Framw. pro tempore existent. sore unum assistentium aldermano diclae civitatis et Fram. loco illius sic decedentis deprivati vel remoti existentis; ac q'd ille qui sic erit assignatus et electus erit unus assistentium aldermano dictae civitatis pro termino vitae suae naturalis, nisi interim et causa rationabili per ipsos alderman. et burgenses et p. e'pum Dunelm. pro tempore existent. approbanda ab officio illo removeri contigerit. Et insup. de uberiori gratia n'ra, et ex certa scientia n'ra, et mero motu, n'ris, damus, volumus, et concedimus, pro nobis et successoribus n'ris, p. presentes, prefato alderm. et burgensibus et successoribus suis imp'petuum, q'd idem aldermanus et burgenses p. nomen aldermani et burgensium infra civitatem Dunelm. et Framw. prosequi, clamare, placitare et placitari, defendere et defendi possint in quibuscunq. curijs et locis n'ris et successor. n'rorum et quantum in nobis est alibi de et sup. omnibus et singulis brevibus, querelis, actionibus, sectis, et demandis quibuscunq. et de et sup. omnibus aliis rebus, materijs, et causis quibuscunq. Ac q'd dicti aldermanus et burgenses et successores sui imp'petu. habeant et habebunt commune sigillum ad omnia et singula chartas evidentias et cetera scripta vel facta ipsos aldermanum et burgenses et societatem aut successores suos, aut terras, tenementa, hereditamenta, bona seu catalla realia seu p'sonalia quecunq. aliquo modo tangentia seu concernentia figilland. Et q'd presati aldermanus et burgenses et successores sui imp'petuum sint habiles et in lege capaces, maneria, dominia, messuagia, terras, tenementa, et cetera hereditamenta quecunq. bona et catalla, tam realia quam p'sonalia, capere, recipere, et perquirere, eis et successorib's suis imp'petuum, seu aliter de quibuscunq▪ personis seu quacunq. persona que illis dare, concedere, legare vel assignare voluerint vel voluerit, dummodo dicta maneria, terras, tent'a, et hereditamenta, sic p. eos et successor. suos p'quirenda, capienda, aut recipienda, de nobis et successoribus n'ris in capite, aut ad voluntatem, secundu. consuetudinem curiae, nisi e'pus Dun. pro tempore existens consenserit, neque excedant annualem valorem
marcarum. Ac q'd dicti aldermanus et burgenses et successor. sui possunt omnia et singula pred. maneria, dominia, messuagia, terras, ten'ta, hereditamenta, bona et catalla quecunque, p. ipsos seu p. successor. p'quirenda, capienda vel recipienda, dare, alienare, dimittere, concedere et assignare cuicunq. et quib
scunq. voluerint. Et ulterius volumus et concedimus pro nobis et successoribus n'ris p. praesentes, q'd prefat. aldermanus et xxiiij burgenses eid. aldermano assistentes vel major pars corum pro tempore existent. habeant et habebunt authoritatem et potestatem de t'pore in t'pus imp'petuum edendi, faciendi et condendi pro bono et publico com'odo ejusd. societat. ac pro salubri gubernatione ejusd. leges, statuta, et ordinationes, tantummodo concernentia illos qui sunt vel erunt de ead. societate civitat. et Framw. pred. dummodo e'pus Dun. p. tempore existens non contradixerit; et q'd illa leges, statuta, et ordinationes, licitè et impunè, in pred. civitate Dunelm. et Framw. exequi et uti prout res postulabit, acetiam eor. quodlibet prout eis melius videbitur, juxta eor. sa
as discretiones altera
e et muta
e possint et valeant de tempore in tempus imp'petuum. Ac omnes qui huju modi leges et ordinationes infregerint et violaverint p. siu
s et amerciamenta dummodo non iniqua vide
tur e'po Dun. pro tempore existent, punire et mule
are, et ead. sines et amerciamenta p. debitum processa' levare et capete ad ulu' dict. societatis. Et ulterius ex abundantiori gratia n'ra concessimus et licentiam dedimus ac p. praesentes concedimus et licentium damus pro nobis et successoribus n'ris quantum
nobis est, quod ijd. in aldermanus et burgenses et successores sui imp'petuum habeant et teneant ac habere et tenere possint unum marcatu' singulis septimanis ap. civ. Dunelm. pred. quolibet die Sabbati tenendum; ac etiam tres sep'ales serias sive nundinas ib'm p. duos dies ad quamlibet seriam annuatim tenend. viz. in sesto S'ti Cuthb'ti in Sept. in sesto S'ti Cuthb'ti in Martio, et die Lune crastino festi Pentecosti, vulgariter vocat. Whitsonmunday cum curiis pedis pulverigati
Statutes at Westminster, 17 Edw. IV. A. D. 1477, were calculated to prevent the encroachments of the court of Pipowder, which, like most other courts, wanted to extend its jurisdiction, or in other terms, the profits arising from it. As these lowest courts of justice were under the direction of the steward, or auditor of him who had the grant of the fair, the steward, by way of drawing every litigation to his own court, supposed, by an ingenious fiction, that parties who never made any contract at the fair, and who perhaps lived at a great distance, had made the bargain in dispute within the limits of his jurisdiction, and by this means claimed conusance of suit. The statute therefore directs, that the plaintiff in the Pipowder court shall swear that his cause of action actually arose within the precint of the fair; and the law seems to be effectually carried into execution, as we hear little of these courts at present. I cannot but here take notice, that the etymology of the word
Pipowder
seems to be mistaken by all the writers upon the law, who derive it from
Pe
pulv
ticus,
or
dusty foot;
now
Trans
untes significant, et vagabundos, qui ideo pedes minus tersos habent sed pulvere squallentes,
Pied
cuim est
Pes, Pouldreux
pulverulentus.—
Spelman's Gloss. p. 455.
pied puldrecux,
in old French, signifies a
pedlar,
who gets his livelihood by vending his goods where he can, without any certain and fixed residence. In the burrow laws of Scotland, an alien merchant is called
pied puldreoux,
and likewise
and fair and man,
or a man who frequents fairs; the court of Pipowder is therefore to determine disputes between those who resort to fairs, and these kind of pedlars, and low tradesmen who generally attend them.—Barrington's Observations on the Ancient Statutes. p. 321, 2d edit. Dublin printed, 1767.
ib'm tenendis durantibus eisd. serijs sive nundinis, una cum exitib. proficuis et amerciamentis ad hujusmodi mereat. ferias sive nundinis provenientibus; ac cum omnibus libertatibus et liberis consuetudinibus proficuis et emolumentis ad hujusmodi mereat. serias p'tinentibus sive spectantibus. Preterea volumus et sirmiter precipimua quod constabularij pred. civitat. et Framw. pro tempore existentes sint auxiliantes et obedientes aldermano dictae civitat. pro tempore existenti, in o'ibus heitis et honestis rebus et mandatis pro meliori exercitione et executione officij sui pred. Et ulterius volumus et mandamus nec aldermanus dictae civitatis nec quisquam e duodecim burgensibus assistentibus eid. aldermano pro tempore existentibus quamdiu in eod. officio erint, servint cuiquam alteri nobili viro vel generoso, nec ejus tunica vel insignibus utatur in tunica nisi forte (sicut ei bene licuerit) in servitio reginae aut regis Angliae, vele e'pi Dun. pro tempore existent retentus fuerit. In eujus rei testim. has Tras fieri fecimus patentes. Teste Tho. Calverley, arm. cancellario n'ro Dun. apud Dun. tricesimo die Jan'ij, a
o regni Elizabethae Dei gratia Angliae, Franciae, et Hib'niae r'ne, fidei defensor, &c. octavo. et consecrationis n're quinto.—
Randal's MSS.
, whereby he directed, that all persons then inhabiting, or who should thereafter after from time to time become inhabitants within the city of Durham, and Framwelgate in the county of Durham, should become one society and one body for ever, and have a perpetual succession; and he appointed Christopher Sewerties, one of the citizens, to be alderman within the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, to govern the said city and Framwelgate until the 4th day of October then next; and also appointed William Walton, William Wright, Robert Anderson, Christopher Mayor, Thomas Knighton, Hugh Whitfield, Edward Hudspeth, Peter Pattenson, William Harper, Gilbert Nixon, Edward Renelley, and John Anderson, twelve burgesses, inhabiting within the said city, to be assistants to the said alderman and his successors during their several lives, if they so long demeaned themselves well and honestly, and the bishop of Durham for the time being should see nothing to the contrary: And the said alderman, twelve burgesses, and all others the inhabitants within the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, should be for ever thereafter incorporated by the name of
alderman and burgesses within the city of Durham and Framwelgate;
with a power for the alderman and twelve burgesses, on the 3d day of October yearly, to nominate twelve other discreet men, inhabitants within the said city and Framwelgate; which twenty-four burgesses, on the 4th of October yearly, should name one of the same society to be alderman for the year ensuing, and also twelve assistant burgesses, which alderman should take the oath therein prescribed before the bishop for the time being, or before his chancellor, if the bishop should not be within his diocese: And as often as it should happen that the alderman and burgesses could not agree in the choice of a succeeding alderman, before sunset on the said 4th of October, then the bishop and his successors, if within the palatine jurisdiction
Infra regnum,—if within the realm.
, or the chancellor, if the bishop was not within the palatinate, should appoint an alderman for that time: And in case an alderman should die in the time of his office, or be removed, then the four-and-twenty should in fourteen days nominate another fit person in his room, he taking the oath prescribed: And if any person elected alderman should refuse to accept the office or take the oath, he should pay a fine of 5l. to the bishop, and to the burgesses the like sum of 5l.; with like powers for supplying the number of assistant burgesses. And the said charter did also ordain and give power to the said alderman and burgesses, by the name of
alderman and burgesses within the city of Durham and Framwelgate,
to plead and be impleaded in all matters whatsoever, and to have a common seal; and to take, receive, and purchase
Perquirere.—Bracton, lib. ii. cap. 30. and lib. iv. cap. 22.
manors, lordships, messuages, lands, tenements, hereditaments,
Statutes at Westminster, 17 Edw. IV. A. D. 1477, were calculated to prevent the encroachments of the court of Pipowder, which, like most other courts, wanted to extend its jurisdiction, or, in other terms, the profits arising from it. As these lowest courts of justice were under the direction of the steward, or auditor of him who had the grant of the fair, the steward, by way of drawing every litigation to his own court, supposed, by an ingenious fiction, that parties who never made any contract at the fair, and who perhaps lived at a great distance, had made the bargain in dispute within the limits of his jurisdiction, and by this means claimed conusance of suit. The statute therefore directs, that the plaintiff in the Pipowder court shall swear that his cause of action actually arose within the precinct of the fair; and the law seems to be effectually carried into execution, as we hear little of these courts at present. I cannot but here take notice, that the etymology of the word
Pipowder
seems to be mistaken by all the writers upon the law, who derive it from
Pe
pulv
cticus,
or
dusty foot;
now
Transcuntes significat, et vagabundos, qui ideo pedes minus tersos habent sed pulvere squall
ntes,
Pied
enim est
Pes, Pouldreux
pulverul
ntus.—
Spelman's Gloss. p. 455.
pied puldreaux,
in old French, signifies a
pe
lar.
who gets his livelihood by vending his goods where he can, without any certain and fixed residence. In the bu
row laws of Scotland, an alien merchant is called
pied puldreaux,
and likewise
are fair and man,
or a man who frequents fairs; the court of Pipowder is therefore to determine disputes between those who resort to fairs, and these kind of pedlars and low tradesmen who generally attend them.—Barrington's, Observation on the Ancient Statutes, p. 321, 2d edit. Dublin printed, 1767.
goods and chattels as well real as personal, so as the same should not exceed the annual value of one hundred marks; with power to alienate, demise, grant, and assign the same. And the said alderman and twenty-four assistant burgesses, or the major part of them, were thereby authorised from time to time to make, order, and publish, laws, statutes, and ordinances, for the public benefit of the said society, and better government thereof, in case the bishop of Durham should not prohibit the same; and to alter and change the same at their discretion, and punish offenders therein by fine and amercement, to be levied to the use of the said society. And that the said alderman and burgesses should for ever thereafter hold a weekly market within the said city of Durham on the day before the Sabbath, and also three several fairs in the year, for two days together at each time, viz. on the feast of St Cuthbert in September, the feast of St Cuthbert in March, and on Whitsun-Monday, together with a court of
pyepowder
during the said fairs: And all profits thereof, and all liberties and free customs, profits and emoluments to markets and fairs belonging: And the constables of the said city and Framwelgate were commanded to be aiding and obedient to the alderman for the time being, for the better exercise and execution of his office: And lastly it was ordained, that neither the alderman nor any of the twelve assistant burgesses, whilst in office, should serve any nobleman or gentleman, use the arms, or bear the badge, of any such person, unless he pleased, or should happen to be retained in the service of the queen or king of England, or the bishop of Durham for the time being.
Neither the city records nor those of the bishops furnish us with the names, in succession, of the chief magistrates or aldermen under bishop Pilkington's charter; and, from the time of Christopher Sewerties, we have an entire blank to the year 1598
Christopher Sewerties ap. first alderman.
Christopher Mayer, named in the curriers and chandlers charter. No date.
Thomas Pearson, 4th Oct. 1598.
Robert Surtis 1599.
Wm Hall 1600.
Hugh Wright 1601.
Ap. by bishop Matthew's charter, first mayor, 21st Sept. 1602.
ames Fareless, second mayor; elected Oct. 4, 1602.—
Randal's MSS.
. The city continued to be governed under the above charter till the year 1602, when bishop Matthews granted a new charter.
Preceding this second charter, several of the crafts and artificers entered into separate associations, for the better government of their respective trades; which being confirmed by the alderman and twelve assistant burgesses, they held as ordinances constituted under the powers of the incorporation charter, and thereby made obligatory: To such, the companies who framed and received them gave the denomination of charters; and they had their power of operation from such ordinance or confirmation. Some of these charters or by-laws are not now to be found; one in the most usual form will satisfy the curiosity of the reader, as the tenors in general are not interesting to the public, and relate only to the private government of the respective companies
The Charter of the Curriers and Chandlers.
For the honour of God and the common wealth, profit and comoditie of all the queens majesties liege people and subjects resient and abideing as well within the city of Duresme, within the co
palatine of Duresme, and the suburbs of the same, as elsewhere. It is ordained and established by the com'on assents and agreements of all the citizens of the said city, and inhabitants within the said suburbs, of the arts and mysteries of corriers and tallow chandlers. And they the said citizens and inhabitants, for them and their successors, doe by these presents ordain, establish, and agree in maner and form following, that is to say, That they and their succ'rs occupying and exercising the arts and mysteries of curriers crafts and chandlers crafts, within the same city and suburbs, shall from henceforth yearly, within 20 days next and im'ediately after the term of Martinmas day, assemble themselves and meet in a place convenient for the same purpose, then and there by their com'on assents and agreements, choose, elect, and create of themselves, of the most honest, discreetest, and substantialest men of the said mysteries and crafts, one alderman and two wardens or searchers, and that the said alderman, wardens or searchers, so elected and chosen, shall have full power and authority for the same year then next following, to do all and every such thing and things as to the office and charge of an alderman, wardens or searchers of right appertaineth. And if it so shall fortune, any p'son or p'sons of their crafts and mysteries aforesaid to be absent at the said assembly and meeting, being by the said wardens, or any other in their names, lawfully warned thereunto, and having no lawful impediment to the contrary, that then the said p'sons shall forfeit and loose unto the lord bishop of Duresme for the time being, for every such default, xij d. the same to be levyed of the goods and chattles of the said offender in that behalfe, by the officers of the said bishop, and other xij d. to the said alderman and wardens, to the common use of the said bretheren of the said mysteries and crafts, and to be levied by the said wardens for the time being. And it is also ordained and established, agreed and assented, that every man of the said mysteries and crafts, and every of them, shall at all time and times hereafter, do, perform, fulfil, and keep of his party, of all and every thing or things whatsoever that shall hereafter be ordained, devised, or made by the said alderman and wardens or searchers for the time being, or by the assent of the most part of the brethren of the said occupations and mysteries, being for the common wealth and the profit and commodity and honesty of the said brethren, upon pain of forfeiting to the said bishop of Duresme for the time being for any such default 3 s. 4d. the same to be levyed by the said bayliff or servants as aforesaid, and other 3s. 4 d. to the said alderman, wardens and searchers, to the common use of the said brethren of the said crafts and mysteries, and to be levied by the said wardens and searchers as aforesaid. Also it is ordained, established, and agreed, by all the brethren of the same mysteries and crafts, that none of the said mysteries and crafts inhabiting or dwelling within the said city or suburbs, or any of them, shall from henceforth take to his prentice at the said misteries or crafts, any Scotishman or other not born under the obeysance of the queens majestie, not denysons, upon pain of forfeiting to the said bishop for the time being 6 s. 8d. and to the same alderman, wardens and searchers for the time being, to the common use of the same brethren of the said mysteries and crafts, 6s. 8d. to be levyed as is aforesaid. And it is also ordained, assented and agreed, by all the said brethren of the craft of curtiers, that none of their company shall worke no kinde of leather but — hide leather and calves leather; and none of the said coryers shall colour no horse leather nor sheeps leather, neither to shoemaker nor sadler, for the defrauding of the queens majestys liege people, upon pain of forfeiting to the said bishop of Duresme for the time being, for every such default, 6s. 8d. the same to be levyed by the bailiffe or serjeant as is above said, and other 6 s. 8 d. to the said alderman, wardens and searchers for the time being, to the common use of the same brethren of the said crafts, to be levyed by the said wardens or searchers as is abovesaid. Also it is ordained, assented, and agreed by all the brethren of the said craft, that no corryer being a foreigner or stranger, nor other not being free of the same crafts within the said city, shall set up, use, or occupy the same craft, nor none of them within the said city or suburbs, unto such time he have agreed with the lord bishop, alderman, wardens and searchers for the time being, and have contented and paid to the said bishop for the time being for his agreement xxs. and to the said alderman, wardens and searchers for the time being, to the use of the said crafts, other xxs. upon pain of forfeiture to the same bishop for the time being 40 s. and to the same wardens and searchers other 40 s. to be levied as is aforesaid. Also it is ordained, agreed and assented, by all the said brethren of the craft of the chandlers, that they shall make no candles but of neats tallow, sheeps tallow, and to make the weare of good stuff, upon pain of forfeiting to the bishop of Duresme for the time being for every default 3s. 4d. and to the use of the said craft 3s. 4d. to be levied as is aforesaid. Also it is ordained, assented and agreed, by all the said brethren of the said craft of chandlers, that no foreigner or stranger, nor other being not free of the same crafts of the chandlers within the said city, shall set up, use, or occupy the same crafts, or any of them, within the said city or suburbs, or market, unto such time he have agreed with the said bishop, alderman, wardens and searchers for the time being, and have contented and paid to the said bishop for the time being, for his agreement, 20 s. and to the said alderman, wardens and searchers for the time being, to the use of the same craft, other 20 s. upon pain of forfeiting to the same bishop for the time being 40 s. and to the same wardens and searchers other 40 s. to be levied as is aforesaid. Also it is ordained, assented and agreed, that none of the said brethren of the said crafts of chandlers, or of any of them, shall take any prentice hereafter to be bound under or for less time than seven years. And that the said prentice shall be of full age, of fourteen years or more, and his indenture to be ingrossed and entered in the common book of the same craft, within one year next and immediately after he shall be so bound, upon pain of any one taking any such prentice to the contrary to forfeit to the bishop for the time being 3s. 4d. and to the said wardens and searchers, to the use of the said crafts, other 3s. 4d. to be levied as is aforesaid. And it is also ordained, assented and agreed by all the said brethren, that no prentice within the said city and suburbs shall set up the said arts and sciences, or make any candles, or set within the market, unto such time he have served out his prentiship, and agreed with the lord b'p, alderman, and wardens for the time being; and that he have contented and paid to the I'd. b'p for his agreement, that he have been prentice within the same city and suburbs at the same science, or any of them, by the space of seven years, 3 s. and to the said warden and searchers for the time being, to the use of the same brethren, other 3 s. upon pain of forfeiting to the same lord bishop for the time being 20 s. and to the said wardens and searchers, to the common use of the said brethren, other 20 s. to be levied as is aforesaid. Also it is ordained, assented and agreed by all the same brethren of the chandlers, that they shall make no candle of
le, nor of no slot of the pott, upon pain of forfeiting to the same bishop for the time being, for every offence, 10 s. and to the said wardens and searchers, to the use of the same craft, other 10 s. to be levied as is aforesaid. And also it is ordained, assented and agreed, that if the master die within the said seven years, that then the prentice, by the advice of the wardens and searchers of the said craft, shall be admitted to serve from the residue of his years with another of the said crafts within the said city or suburbs, and to have his freedom. And if the said apprentice will not be so contented, that then he to forfeit his freedom he should have in the said city and suburbs. And also it is ordained, assented and agreed, that the wardens and searchers of the said crafts shall yearly, from year to year, make their full and whole accompt unto the new wardens and searchers of the said crafts, of all such respective forfeitures and sums of money as they shall have received to the use of the said crafts, during the time that they were wardens, and that within five days next after the election of the new wardens, upon pain to forfeit for every default to the said bishop of Duresme for the time being 6 s. 8 d. and to the said new wardens and searchers, to the use of the said crafts, 6 s. 8 d. to be levied as aforesaid. And it is also ordained, assented and agreed, that every man of the said craft shall at all time and times hereafter do, performe and fullfil of his partye, all and every thing or things that hereafter shall be ordained, devised, or made by the said wardens and searchers for the time being, by the assent of the most part of the brethren of the said occupation, for the weale, honesty and profit of the queens subjects of the said crafts, upon pain of forfeiting of 3 s. 4 d. for every default to the said bishop of Duresme for the time being, and to be levied by the said baylifes or serjeants as is aforesaid, and other 3 s. 4 d. to the said wardens and searchers of the said crafts, to the common use of the said crafts, to be levied by the said wardens and searchers for the time being, so that the same orders and devises to be made by the advice, assent and agreement of the alderman of the same city and his assistants for the time being. And moreover it is assented and agreed upon, by all the brethren and occupiers of the same sciences, that it shall and may be lawfull unto all and every the inhabitants within the same city and suburbs, att all times hereafter to make their own candles in their own houses, as heretofore they have been accustomed, any thing herein contained to the contrary notwithstanding. And it is further assented and agreed by all the same brethren, and occupiers of the same arts and sciences, that they shall make no orders concerning the same arts and sciences hereafter, others than such as heretofore are contained in this writing, except the same orders be made, assented and agreed to by the said alderman and assistants for the time being, upon pain of forfeiting to the same bishop for the time being, 10 s. and to the same wardens and searchers 10 s. to be levied as abovesaid.
— Et nos Christophorus Maire, aldermannus et duodecim assistentes ejusd. civitat. et Framwellgate ad requisitionem R'adi Stevenson guardiani, &c &c. —
Randal's MSS.
Lawrentij Booth episc No 85. Rot. M. Inquisitio de corporat. textorum ibidem in dorso, No 16. Corporatio de cordiners.
Cuthberti Tunstall epise. Charta incorporationis d' carpenders, joyners, wheelwrights, sawyers, and coopers.
Similis, pro clothworkers et walkercraft, per Jacobum Pilkington ep. anno 7, pont. sui.
Similis, pro rough masons, wallers, et slaters, p. Matthaeum Hutton ep. an. 7, pont. sui.
Clothworkers per Tob. Matthew ep.—
Spearman's Enquiry, p. 19.
.
Bishop Matthew's charter
Bishop Matthew's Charter.
TOBIAS, Dei gratia, e'pus Dun. Cum civitas Dun. in com. palatino Dun. sit et absq. memoria hominis fuerit antiqua civitas bone memorie cumq. burgenses, homines, et inhabitantes ejusd. civitatis. una cum hominibus et inhabitantibus in Framwelgate, juxta civitatem predicta. in com. praed. habuere et gravisi fuere diversa jura, jurisdictiones, libertates, et privilegia, tam p. prescriptionem qua. pretextu diversaru. chartaru. concessionu. et confirmationu. ta. p. nos qua. p. diversos predecessores n'ros e'pos Dunelm. cumq. burgenses, homines, et habitantes predict. civitatis et Framwelgate, dampna non modica temporibus transactis sustulerunt ratione defectus aliquar. dictaru. literaru. patentiu. et metuentes se de et in hujusmodi libertatibus et liberis consuetudinibus ob defectu. declarationis et expressionis earund. et alijs occasionibus futuro te'pore molestari praegravari, impediri, et p'turbari nobis humillimè supplicaverunt quatenus libertates et liberas consuetudines praed. sub verbis spi'alibus declarat. et expresat. eisd. burgensibus, hominibus, et inhabitantibus, et eoru. successoribus, in forma subsequenti concedere, et ipsos burgenses, homines, et inhabitantes incorporare, et personas habiles et capaces cu. successione p.petuua facere dignaremur. Nos pro melioratione civitatis praed. et pro gubernatione et prestantiori regimine ejusd. et pro meliore sustentatione et supportatione graviu. oneru. sumptuu. et expensaru. que ipsip. manutentione ejusd. civitat. de t'pore in t'pus sustinent. ac in dies magis magisq. sustinere et sustentare verisimiliter videnter supplicationi sue in hac parte favorabiliter inclinati de gra. n'ra, ac ex spi'ali, ac ex certa scientia, et mero motu, n'ris volumus, ordinamus, constituimus, et concedimus, p. nobis et successoribus n'
is, quantum in nobis est, quod dicti burgenses, homines, et inhabitantes dicti civit. Dun. et Framwelgate sint et erunt unu. corpus politicu. et incorporatum de majore duodecem aldermanis et communitate p'petuis t'poribus duratur. Et quod dicti burgenses, ho'i'es, et inhabitantes de cetero imp'petuum sint et erunt unu. corpus politicu. et incorporatu. in re, facto, et nomine, p. nomen majoris, aldermanoru. et com'unitatis civitatis Dun. et Framwelgate. Et eos p. nomen majoris, alderman. et communitatis civitat. Dun. et Fram. unu. corpus corporatum et politicu. realiter et ad plenu. quantu. in nobis est p. nobis et successoribus n'ris erigimus, facimus, ordinamus, constituimus, et creamus, p. praesentes, ipsosq. et successores suos p. p'petuo, incorporari, uniri, et unum corpus stabiliri, decernimus et declaramus quodq. nominentur, vocentur, et nuncupentur major, aldermani, et com'unitatis civitatis Dunelm. et Framwelgate imp'petuum, et p. idem nomen habeant successionem p'petuam et sint et erunt p'petuis futuris temporibus persone habiles et in lege capaces. Et quod p. idem nomen implacitare poterint et implacitari ac in et p. omnibus et omnimodis causis, querelis, actionibus, sectis realibus et personalibus, ac mixtis cujuscunq. fuerint generis vel nature prosequi, defendere, vel respondere valeant sub nomine predicto, cora. quibuscunq. judicib's ta. sp'ualibus qu. te'p'alibus, in o'i'bus curijs n'ris vel successor. n'roru. infra comitat. palatinu. Dun. et Sadberge, et quantu. in'nobis est, alibi in o'i'bus aliis curijs et locis quibuscunq. Et quod pred. major, aldermani, et com'unitatis civitat. Dun. et Framwelgate, et successores sui, sint habiles et capaces in lege ad p'quirend. et recipiend. terras, tenementa, annuitates, redditus, servitia, advocationes, et patronatus eccl'siaru. emolumenta, possessiones, et hereditamenta, nec non bona et catalla quecunq. ta. sp'ualia qua. te'poralia, de quacunq. persona seu quibuscunq. personis que illa eis dare, concedere, legare, vendere, vel assignare voluerit vel voluerint, dum'odo dicti terre, tenementa, hereditamenta, et premissa p. ipsos recipiend. et p'quirend. non excedunt an'uum valorem centu. marcaru. habend. sibi et successoribus suis, secundu. status et formas hujusmodi donationum, legationu. venditionu. et perquisitionum, absque molestatione vel impetitione nostrum vel successor. n'roru. vel aliquor. officiarior. vel ministroru. n'roru. vel successor. n'roru. quorumcunq. salvis semper nobis et successoribus n'ris omnibus sinibus, forisfacturis, et juribus regalibus n'ris, p. vel ratione hujusmodi donationu. legationu. venditionu. vel perquisitionum aliqualiter emergentibus vel contingentibus nobis et successoribus n'ris debitis et de jure consuetis. Et quod dicti major, aldermani, et co'itas civitat. Dun. et Framwelgate habeant et habebunt com'une siigillu. ad o'ia et singula scripta, chartas, instrumenta, ipsos majorem, et aldermanos, et com'unitatem, et successores suos, aut terras, tenementa, hereditamenta, bona, catalla, sive negotia sua publica, aliquo modo tangentia seu concernentia sigilland. imp'petuum. Et p. meliore executione premissor. volumus, et p. has l'ras n'ras patentes assignavimus, facimus, et constituimus, et realiter nomina'mus, dilectu. nobis in Christo, Hugonem Wright, unu. burgensiu. et inhabitantiu infra pred. civitat. Dun. sore et esse primum et modernum majorem infra dictam civitat. Dunelm. et Framwelgate pred. in dicto officio majoratus moraturum, a dat. presentium usque quartu. diem Octobris prox. futur. Et postea quousq. alius de aldermanis civitat. Dun. et Framwelgate pred. in officiu. majoratus ejusd. civitat. Dun. et Framw. predict. debitè electus et presectus fuerit, si idem Hugo Wright tam diu vixerit et bene se gesserit in eodem: Et post decessum dicti Hugonis Wright de dicto officio suo majoratus pred. dictu. Hugonem Wright sore aldermanum civitat. Dun. et Framwelgate pred. durante vitâ sua, quamdiu se bene gesserit in eod. in supplementum integri muneri dictor. duodecem aldermanoru. absq. aliqua alia electione nova, inde sienda in loco illius aldermani qui contigerit majorem civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. p. proximo anno sutur. eligi et nominari. Assignamus e
iam, nominamus, et constituimus, p. nob. et success. n'ris, per praesentes, dilectos nobis in Christo, Rob'tum Suerties, Rich. Hutchinson, Edw. Wanles, Wm. Hall, Jac. Farales, Tho. Pearson, Joh'em Wall, Edw. Taylor, Hug. Hutchinson, Joh'em Heighington, Joh'em Pattinson, et Rich'um Wright, duodecem de burgensibus et inhabitantibus infra pred. civitatem Dun. et Framw. fore aldermanos dicte civitatis Dun. et Framwelgate durantibus seperalibus vitis suis, quamdiu se bene gesserint in eisd. officiis suis. Volumus etiam, ordinamus, et constituimus, ac p. nobis et successoribus n'ris concedimus prefatis majori, aldermanis, et communitati civitat. Dun. et Framw. et successoribus suis imp'petuum, quod major et aldermani dicte civitat. Dun. et Framw. et eoru. successores p. tempore existen. vel major pars eorund. quolibet anno et de anno in annu. imp'petuum tertio die Octobris assignabunt, nominabunt, et eligent viginti-quatuor alios ex discretioribus et probioribus viris, qui tunc erunt residentes, com'orantes, et inhabitantes infra dictam civitatem Dun. et Framw. pred. videlicet, duos de qualibet duodecem harum sep'alium artium, mysterioru. sive facultatu, infra nominat. videlicet, duos de mercatoribus, Anglicè mercers, grocers, haberdashers, ironmongers, & salterers; duos de mercatoribus panni lanei, Anglicè drapers & taylors; duos de pelliparijs, Anglicè skinners & glovers; duos de tannatorijs, Anglicè tanners; duos de textoribus, Anglicè weavers; duos de tinctoribus et sulloribus, Anglicè dyers & fullers; duos de allutarijs, Anglicè cordwainers; duos de fallarijs, Anglicè fadlers; duos de lanijs, Anglicè butchers; duos de fabris ferrarijs, Anglicè smiths; duos de fabris lignarijs, Anglicè carpenters & joiners; et duos de lapidarijs, Anglicè free-masons & rough-masons, tunc com'orantes, residentes, et inhabitantes infra civitatem Dun. et Framw. pred. Qui quidem major, aldermani, et viginti-quatuor probiores ho'i'es de mysterijs pred. de t'pore in t'pus sint et erunt perpetuis futuris temporibus commune concilium civitat. Dun. et Fram. pred. Et quod pred. major, aldermani, et viginti-quatuor probiores ho'i'es nominati et sic electi p. t'pore existen. commune concilium civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. vel major pars eorum quor. septem de aldermanis p. tempore existen. septem esse volumus annuatim quarto die Octobris in Gildam-aulam sive Tolbooth civitat. predict. sive in aliquem alium locum convenientem infra civitat. pred. nominabunt, assignabunt, et eligent, et nominare, assignare, et eligere possint et valeant imp'petuum unum de aldermanis civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. p. tempore existen. in majoratum et fore majorem civitat. Dun et Framw. pred. p. uno anno integro tunc proxime sequen. si idem major sic electus tamdiu vixerit et bene se gesserit in eod. Et quod ille qui sic erit nominatus, assignatus, et electus in officium majoratus immediatè post hujusmodi electionem erit major civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. et geret officium majoratus ibid. pro uno anno integro tunc proximo sequente. Volumus nihilominus, et ordinamus, et statuimus, quod pred. aldermani et viginti-quatuor p'b'res ho'es nominati et electi in com'une conciliu. ut prefertur, vel major pars eorund. quor. septem aldermani (septem esse volumus) ex quacunq. causa legitima p. nos vel success. n'ris approbanda possint, valeant, et habeant potestatem deprivare vel removere aliquam personam majorem civ. Dun. et Fram. pred. existen. ex officio suo majoratus quandocunq. status bonum publicum ejusd. civitat. et causa rationabilis hoc exiget et requiret: q'd que si contingat aliquam personam existentem majorem civ. Dun. et Fram. pred. t'pore quo fuerit sic major obire et hac luce privari anno durante et currente quo offic. majoris sic geret vel gerere debet vel ab
od. offic. majoris infra an. pred. ex quacunq. causa legitima deprivari vel removeri, quod tunc pred. aldermani et vigintiquatuor p'biores ho'es p. t'pore existen. nominati et electi in commune conciliu. ut prefertur, vel major pars eorund. tunc present. quorum septem aldermani (septem esse volumus) habebunt potestatem nominandi et eligendi ad tale tempus quale eis bonum et idoneum videbitur infra spatium undecem dierum ex tunc prox. sequen. in Guilda-aula sive Tolbooth pred. seu in alio aliquo loco convenien. infra pred. civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. unum de aldermanis ejusd. civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. p. tempore existen. fore majorem civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. ab inde et a t'pore hujusmodi deprivationis mortis vel remotionis usq. quartu. diem Octobris tunc proximè sequen. sinitum si tamdiu vixerit et bene se gesserit in eod. Ac quod ille qui sic erit nominatus et electus major, geret et exercebit officium majoris civitatis Dun. et Fram. pred. usq. quartum diem Octobris tunc proximè sequen. finitum, nisi eum ex aliqua causa removeri contigerit, aut interim obierit. Que quidem persona sic ut prefertur nominata et electa in officium majoris n
cnon quilibet major civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. p. tempore existen. infra tres dies post electionem suam in officium suum majoratus pred. prestabit et subibit corporale juramentum coram nobis et successoribus n'
is, e'pis Dun. p. tempore existen. Ac sede e'pali Dun. vacante vel nobis aut successoribus n'ris in remotis agentibus, tunc coram cancellario com. palatin. p. tempore existen. et in absentia ejusd. cancellar extra comitatu. pred. tunc coram aldermanis et viginti-quatuor p'bis ho'ibus p. tempore existen. elect. in commune concilium, ut prefertur, vel majore parte eorund. ad hoc solemniter congregat. p. sideli executione et vera exercitio officii sui, cujus quidem juramenti tenor sequitur in haec verba:
I shall truth and faith heare to our sovereigne lady the queen's majesty, her heires and successors, kings and queens of England; and to the lord bush
pp of Duresme and his successors, bushopps of Duresme. And all such acts and orders as I shall consent and agree unto to be made, shall be for the commonwealth of the city of Duresme and Framw. and shall all noe time or times hereafter goe about to make any private orders against the privileges of the bushopp of Duresme, nor for the onely profit of myselfe, nor of any other private person or persons, or consent or agree unto the same: And alsoe I shall at all and every time and times hereafter go about by word, will, and consent, well and truely to execute every point, article, and agreement conteined in this corporation to the mayor, aldermen, and commonality of the said city and Fram. granted, to my power; and alsoe shall keepe my lord's counsell, my fellowes, and my owne. Soe helpe me God, and by the contents of this book.
Etiam volumus, et p. nobis et successor. n'ris concedimus, quantum in nobis est, prefato majori, aldermanis, et communitate civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. q'd de t'pore in t'pus imp'petuum quinto die Octobris quolibet anno ijdem major, aldermani, et viginti-quatuor p'biores ho'i'es p. tempore existen. commune concilium pred. vel major pars eorund. quoru. majorem et sex aldermanos (septem esse volumus) nominarint et eligerint et nominabunt et eligent secundum sanas descretiones suas duos burgenses sive inhabitantes civitat. Dun. et Fram. pred. tunc existen. fore servientes ad clavam et ministros curiar. n'rarum et curiar. dictor. major, aldermanor. et communitat. civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. tenend. t'porum utroq. in dicto officio suo remansuro p. uno anno integro tunc proximè sequen. si ipsi tamdiu vixerint, et se bene gesserint in eod. Et insup. volumus, et p. nobis et successoribus n'ris concedimus quantum in nobis est, quod dict. major, aldermani, et viginti-quatuor p'biores ho'i'es in dict. commune concilium electi p. t'pore existentes, vel major pars eorund. (quor. septem de aldermanis p. t'pore existen. septem esse volumus) p. uno anno integro prox. sequen. quartum diem Octobris annuatim, sint et erunt electores o'ium officiorum eligibilium civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. in casu acciderit aliquem aut aliquos officiarios electos obire, amoveri, vel deponi infra annum proximum post hujusmodi electionem de se factam, et si contingat aliquem dictor. viginti-quatuor p'biorum hominum in commune concilium electorum obire infra annum p'ximum post electionem de se factam, ut prefertur, q'd tunc et toties major et aldermani pred. p. t'pore existen. vel major pars eorund. infra viginti dies proximos post hujusmodi mortem eligent et nominabunt alios civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. burgenses et inhabitantes de ead. facultate sive mysteria sic morientes in supplimentum dicti numeri dictor. viginti-quatuor probiorum hominum in dict. commune concilium elect. Et insuper volumus q'd si contingat aliquem vel aliquos dictor. duodecem aldermanorum obire, decedere, deponi, aut a loco vel locis suis amoveri, tunc et toties quoties aliquis hujusmodi casus acciderit, dicti major, aldermani, et viginti-quatuor p'biores ho'i'es in dict. commune concilium electi p. t'pore existen. vel major pars eorund. (quor. majorem et sex de aldermanis p. tempore existen. septem esse volumus) infra viginti dies tunc prox. post hujusmodi obitum, decessum, aut amotionem alicujus aut aliquor. aldermanor. pred. vel successor. suor. nominabunt et eligent, et eligere et nominare possint et valeant alium aut alios, burgensem vel burgenses, inhabitantem vel inhabitantes civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. existentes, residentes, et inhabitantes in ead. civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. fore aldermanum vel aldermanos civitat. Dun. et Framw. predict. loco vel loci
hujusmodi aldermani vel aldermanorum sic obiuntium, decedentium, depositorum, aut amotorum, qui qu
dem aldermanus vel aldermani sic nominati et electi, erunt et existent, et erit et existet, aldermanus et aldermani civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. p. et durante naturali vita hujusmodi sic nominati et electi aut nominatorum et electorum, si non contingat eum vel eos ob rationabilem causam deponi vel amoveri. Volumus etiam, et p. presentes, p. nobis et successoribus n'ris, quantum in nobis est, damus et concedimus dicto majori, aldermanis, et communitati civitatis Dun. et Framw. pred. q'd si aliqua persona que ad officium majoratus sive aldermani infra civitatem Dun. et Framw. pred. sic, ut prefertur, electus vel prefectus fuerit, renuerit vel recusaverit onus et executionem officij pred. in se suscipere et subire, q'd tunc et toties quoties hujusmodi persona sic elect. vel prefect. sic renuerit vel recusaverit, major, aldermani, et commune concilium civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. p. t'pore existen. vel major pars eorund. (quor. major et sex de aldermanis septem esse volumus) habeant et habebunt p. presentes p'petuis futuris temporibus plenam authoritatem et potestatem assidendi, taxandi, et imponendi quecunq. rationabilem sinem, penam, seu pecuniarum summam sup. hujusmodi personam sic electam, renuentem, et recusantem dictum officium majoratus vel aldermani, ita q'd dictus sinis, pena, sive pecuniarum summam non excedat summam viginti librarum de bonis et catallis ejusd. persone levand. aut eundem personam negantem et recusantem solvere dict. finem, penam, seu pecuniarum summam sic in eu. assess. et imposit. ad prisonam sive gaolam infra civitat. pred. committendi quousq. satisfaceret vel solveret nobis et successoribus n'ris dictum finem, penam, seu pecuniarum summam sic sibi impositam, ut prefertur. Et pred. majorem, aldermanos, et communitatem, omnes et omnimodas hujusmodi sines, penas, et pecuniarum summas habere recipere et ad publicum usum ejusd. civitat. conferre de t'pore in t'pus imp'petuum. Volumus insup. ordinamus, et constituimus, ac p. presentes, p. nobis et successoribus n'ris, concedimus prefat. majori, aldermanis, et communitati civitat Dun. et Framw. pred. et eorum successoribus. quantum in nobis est, q'd pred. major, aldermani, et viginti-quatuor probiores homines, dictum commune concilium civitat. Dun. et Fra
w. pred. p. t'pore existen. vel major pars eorund. (quorum major et sex aldermani nos septem esse volumus) habebunt, et p. presentes habeant, quantum in nobis, est plenam authoritatem, potestatem, et facultatem, vice p. et in nomine totiua corporis corporalis civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. componendi, constituendi, ordinandi, saciendi, et stabiliendi, de t'pore in t'pus, hujusmodi leges, statuta, ordinationes, et consuetudines, que eis bona, salubria, utilia, honesta, et necessaria, juxta eorum
nas descretiones sore videbuntur, p. bonis, regimine, et gubernatione majoris, aldermanor. et communitatis civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. ac omnium mercator. officior. ministror. artific. et resident. quorumcunq. civitat. Dun. et Fram. pred. p. t'po
e existen. ac p. regimine et gubernatione mercat. feriarum, et nundinarum infra civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. et limites et lib'tates ejusd. tenend. ac gent. ad dictum mercatum, ferias, et nundinas, sive eorum aliquod venient. et consluent. ac p. declaratione pro modo et ordine major, aldermani, et comunitas, et ceteri omnes, et singuli ministri, officiarij, et artifices, inhabitantes et residentes civitat. Dun. et Fram. pred. ac eorum sactores, servientes, et apprenticij, in officiis, functionibus, ministerijs, artificijs, et negotijs suis infra civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. ac lib'tates eorund. p. t'pore existen. sese habebunt, gerent, et utentur, ac aliter p. uberiori, bono publico, commune utilitate, et bono regimine civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. ac etiam p. meliore preservatione, gubernatione, locatione, dimissione terrarum, ten'torum, revertionum, et hereditamentorum prefat. majoris, aldermanor. et communitatis, ac successorum suor. eis dator. concessor. sive assignator. seu imposterum concedend. dand. vel assignand. ac res ac causas alias quascunq. civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. aut status, jura, et interesse ejusd. civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. contingent. sive quocunq. modo concernent. q'd'q. major, aldermani, et commune concilium civitat. Dun. et Fram. pred. p. t'pore existen. vel major pars eorund. quor. majorem civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred et sex aldermanos ejusd. civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. pro tempore existen. (septem esse volumus) quotiescunq. hujusmodi leges, instituta, jura, ordinationes, et constitutiones condiderint, fecerint, ordinaverint, et stabilierint, in forma pred. hujusmodi et tales penas, punitiones, penalitatas, et imprisonamenta corporis, vel p. fines et amerciamenta, vel p. coru' utrumq. erga et sup. eos delinquentes contra hujusmodi leges statuta jura ordinationes constitutiones sive eor. aliquod vel aliqua, qualia et que eisd. majori aldermanis et com'uni concilio pro tempore existen. sive majori parti eorun. (quoru. majorem et sex aldermanos p. t'pore existen. septem esse volumus) necessar. et requisit. p. observatione hujusmodi legum ordinationum et constitutionu. melius fore videbuntur facere ordinarie, limitare, et p'videre, ac eadem fines et amerciamenta, p. districtiones, seu alio modo quocunq. levare hac habere et retinere possint et valeant sibi et successoribus suis ad usum predict. civitatis Dun. et Framw. pred. absq. calumpnia vel impedimento n'ri, vel successor. n'roru. vel alicujus, sive aliquor. officiariorum n'rorum aut successor. n'rorum. Que o'ia et sing'la leges ordinationes constitutiones jura et instituta sic ut prefertur faciend. observari volumus sub penis in eisd. content. Ita tamen quod leges ordinationes, constitutiones, et institutiones hujusmodi pene punitiones, penalitates, et imprisonamenta non sint repugnantia et contraria legibus statutis, juribus sive consuetudinibus regni Anglie. Ac p. eor. quod volumus, quod prefat. major aldermani et eos burgenses, inhabitantes civit. Dun. et Framw. pred. deinceps possint et valeant laudabilius et alacrius p. bono publico ejusd. civitat. et Framw. officia sua e
ercere et p. meliore manutentione statum et gradum suoru. pred. nos dictos majorem aldermanos et com'unitatem amplioribus previlegiis locupletare statuentes, de ampliori gra. n'ra ac ex certa scientia et mero motu n'ris p. nobis, et successoribus n'ris quantu. in nobis est, damus et concedimus prefat. majori aldermanis et communitati civ. Dun. et Fr. et successoribus suis, quod ip'i et successores sui imp'petuum gaudeant, habeant et teneant o'es et singulas curias, ferias, merchat. tolneta, piccagia, stallagia, pontagia, passagia, custumas, et o'es et sing'las lib'tates, franchesias, proficua, commoditates, emolumenta, et liberas consuetudines quibus ante hec t'pora burgenses civitat. Dun. et quibus ho'i'es lib'tatis et civ. Dun. et quibus balivus civit. Dun. et quibus aldermanus et burgenses infra civ. Dun. et Fram. et quibus aldermanus burgenses et inhabitantes infra civ. Dun. et Framw. aut coru aliqui, aut aliquis usus suit habuit tenuit, aut gavisus est, vel usi fuerunt tenuerunt et gavisi fuerunt, vel habere tenere uti aut gaudere debuerunt seu debuit ratione sive pretextu aliquaru. chartaru. vel l'rarum patent. p. nos, vel p. aliquem predecessorum n'rorum ep'oru. Dunelm. quoquo modo ante hac sact. consirmat. vel concess. seu quocunq. alio legali modo, jure, consuetudine, usu, prescriptione, sive titulo, ante hac usitata, habita, seu consueta. Volumus etiam, et per presentes, p. nobis et successoribus n'ris, quantum in nobis est, eisdem majori, aldermanis, et communitatibus, et successoribus suis, concedimus quod ipsi et successores sui imp'petuum habeant et teneant infra civitat. pred. una. curiam quolibet die Martis de quindecim in quindecim dies, coram senescallo suo ad hoc p. ip'os ordinand. et constituend. tenend. Et quod habeant potestatem audiendi et terminandi in ead. curia p. sen'c'lum suum pred. o'es et omnimodas, actiones sectas querelas et demandas reales, et personales ta. de debitis ad quamcunq. sum'am attingentibus qua. de computis transgressionibus, detentionibus, conventionibus, deceptionibus. actionibus, sup. casum et alijs contractibus materijs causis et demandis quibuscunq. et o'ia alia placita, p'sonalia, realia, et mixta, infra civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. libertat. limites, bundas, et precinct. eorund. quoquomodo surgent sive emergent in curia pred. levand. et affirmand. et partes defendentes in eisd. qu
erelis, sectis et demandis in pl'i
um deducere p. sumonitiones, attachiamenta et destrictiones, si partes ille sufficienter fuerint. et si sufficientes non fuerint, p. attachiamenta corporu. suorum et in o'ibus placitis sectis et querilis sic affirmatis et levatis judicia reddere, ac executiones inde facere secundum debitum legis formam. Et quod serventes ad
lavam et uterq. eoru. vel alii ministri ejusd. curie debita authoritate sulciti facient et exequentur o'es et sing'las sum'onitiones districtiones attachiamenta et alia precepta ejusd. curie, ta. p. corpora qua. aliter insia dicta. civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred. secundu. exigent
ujuscunq. warrant. precepti sive processus authoritate pred. ei vel eis direct. vel dirigend. Et quod major aldermani et com'unitas p. t'pore existen. p. pred. servientes ad clavas vel aliu. aut alios ministru. vel ministros curie predict. in o'ibus et singulis sectis querelis actionibus et demandis cora. sen'c'lo suo in cad. curia motis seu dependen. possi
t et valeant personas defendentes in eisd. sectis querelis actionibus et demandis in terris tenementis possessionibus et facultatibus suis infra jurisdictionem curie pred. minus sufficient. p. corpora sua attachiare, et eisd. personas prisone, infra civitat. pred. comittere, et in prisona detinere, prout lex postulat. et casus exiget et requiret. Et quod id major aldermani et com'unitas civ. Dun. et Framw. pred. habeant imp'petuum cognitionem o'iu. pl
itorum ta. realiu. qua. p'sonaliu. et mixtoru. et alior. pl'toru. quorumcunq. infra civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred
vel eoru. lib'tates limites vel precinctus emersur. et emergend. in quibuscunq. curiis n'ris infra comitat. palatinu. Dun. mot. motur. vel movend. in pred. curia cora. sen'c'lo suo p. t'pore existen. infra civitat. pred. ut prefertur, tenend. audiend. et terminand. secundu. debita legis sormam et p'ut casus exiget et requiret. Et quod sen'c'lus eorund. majoris aldermanorum et comunitatis p. t'pore existen. in curia pred. coram illo tenenda habeat potestatem puniendi et coercendi o'es et sing'los officiatios et ministros curie illius vel alias personas quascunq. delinquentes in dictam curiam ob. corum contemptum negligentiam aut alia quecunq. delicta in dictam curiam p'petrata et p'petrand. p. rationabilem finem aut p. imprisonamentum corporis aut corporum suorum, aut aliquibus aliis ligittimis viis et modis quibuscunq. Concedimus insup. p. presentes p. nobis et successoribus n'ris presatis majori aldermani et communitati et successoribus suis o'ia et sing'la exitus, proficua, fines, amerciamenta, et alias emolumentas quecunq. in cur. pred. quocunq. modo contingentia ad eorum usus et opus p'pria imp'petuum Et ulteria nos de uberiori gra. n'ra. p nobis et successoribus n'ris concessimus, et p. presentes concedimus quantum in nobis est, prefatis majori aldermanis et com'unitati ac successoribus suis, quod idem major. aldermani et com'unitas et successores sui, imp'petuum habeant et teneant singulis annis visum francii-pledgii, sive letam, cum o'ibus ad hujusmodi visu. francii-pledgii p'tinentibus infra precinctum dicte civ. Dun et Framw. pred. coram senescallo suo aut ejus sufficient. deputato suo secundum legem bis p. annu. viz. semel infra mensem post Michaelis festum archangeli, et iterum infra mensem post festum Pasche tenenda. Et quod habeant emendationem assise panis et cervisie fract. et aliorum venalium quorumcunq. necnon correctionem et punitionem eorund. et cujuslibet inde parcell. ac totum et quicquid quod ad visum francii-pledgii p'tinet aut p'tinere debeat aut poterit. Ac etiam quod pred. major aldermani et com'unitas et successores sui habeant, omnia exitus et proficua, p'quisitiones, fines, penas, redemptiones, forisfacturas et amerciamenta in o'ibus et sing'lis hujusmodi visibus franc. pleg. sive leet forisfaciend. sive assidend. Et ulterius de uberiori gra. n'ta, p. nobis et successoribus n'ris concessimus et p. presentes concedimus et hac present. charta n'ra confirmavimus p. nobis et successoribus n'ris prefat. majori aldermanis et com'unitat. et successoribus suis quod ipsi, et eorum successores imp'petuum habeant et teneant, apud dict. civit. Dun. unum mercatum, p. o'ibus bonis catallis et merchandizis emend. et vendend. et quicquid quod ad marcatum, pertinet sive pertinere debet aut poterit insia, quamlibet septimanam singulis annis imp petuum modo et forma sequen. viz. quolibet die Sabbathi ib'm tenend. imp'petuum. Et insup. quod idem major aldermani, et com'unitas, et successores sui, habeant et teneant imp'petuum tres serias sive nundinas infra dict. civitat. Dunelm. p. o ibus bonis cataliis et merchandizis emend. et vendend. et quicquid quod ad seria
sive nundinum p'tinet sive p'tinere debet vel poterit, viz. unam seriam sive nundinum pred. triu. seriarum sive nundinorum tenend apud dict. civitat Dun. singulis annis p. duos dies, viz. in festo et Crastino S'ti Cuthb'ti in mense Martii, secundum vero feriarum sive nundinorum pred. triu. seriaru. sive nundinoru. tenend. apud pred. civitat. Dun. annuatim imp'pe
uum in festo S'ti Cuthberti in mense Septembris, ac tertiam seriar, sive nundinor. pred. trin seriar. sive nundinor. tenend. apud civitat. Dun. pred. an'uatim imp'petuum die Martis post festum Pentecoste vulgariter vocat, Whitsuntewsday, una cum o'ibus s
odis exitibus, tolnetia, piccagiis, pontagiis, et amerciamentis, de hujusmodi mercatis, seriis, sive nundinis p'venientibus, sive emergentibus, cum o'
bus lib'tatibus, et liberis consuetudinibus, prosicuis, revertionibus, advantagiis, com'oditatibus, et emolumentis, ad hujusmodi serias, sive nundinas et
ercata, quovis modo p'tinentibus, sive spectantibus, dum tamen serie, sive nundine et mercatu. illud non sa
t ad nocumentum aliorum viciniorum mercatorum, sive aliar. vicinaru. feriaru sive nundinaru. Preterea de abundantio
e gra. n'ra volumus et p. presentes, p. nobis et successoribus n'ris quantum in nobis est, concedi aut presat. majori aldermanis et com'unitati
iv. Dun. et Framw. pred. et successoribus suis imp'petuum q'd quilibet major p. t'pore existen. sit et erit el'icus mercati n'ri, et successorum n'rorum in civitat. Dun. et Framw. pred durante t'pore quo officium majoratus civit. Dun. et Framw. pred occupaverit. Et quod habeat at potestatem jurisdictionem, authoritatem, et lib'tatem, faciendi et exercendi o'ia et sing'la que
ad officium e
ci mercati, ib'm pertinent. ad saciend. et exequend. p'ut ceteri el'ici mereati n'ti et predecessorum n'roru. infra comitat. palat n'ru. habuerunt et habere contigerunt in futurum, una cum o'ibus exitibus et proficuis, perquisitionibus, sinibus, penis, redemptionibus, sorisfacturis, amerciamentis, de o'ibus et aliquibus forisfac
nd. vel assidend. Habend. gaudend. et tenend. o'ia et sing'la preantea concessa consuetudines lib'tates, previlegia, franchefias, jurisdictiones, curias, mercata, ferias, officia, et premissa quecunq. cum suis pertin. presat. majori aldermanis et com'unitati civ. Dun. et Framw. pred. et successorib. suis ad usum eorund. majoris aldermanor. et com'unitatis et successor. suor. imp'petuum. Reddend. et faciend. nobis et successoribus n'ris antiqua feoda firma sive reddit. p. premissis seu antiqua inde parceila ante hac nobis reddita et soluta p o'ibus aliis servitiis exactionib et demandis (except. praexceptis) p. inde nob. et successorib. n'ris reddend. solvend.
eu faciend. Et ulterius volumus et firmiter precipimus p. nobis et successorib. n'ris q'd pred. major. aldermani, et com'unitas, et success. sui imp'petuu. o'ia preconcessa lib'tates, consuetudines, privilegia, franchesias, jurisdictiones, mercata, ferias, et cetera o'ia et sing'la premissa, cum suis pertinen. de cetero, liberè, quietè, et fine impedimento n'roru. vel success. n'roru. aut aliquor. n'roru. ministror. officiarior. vel substitutor. quorumcunq. In cuj. rei test. has l'ras n'ras fieri fecimus patentes. Teste Tho. Calverley, arm. cancellar. n'ro Dun. dat. apud manerium n'ru. de Awkeland-epi. in festo S'ti Matthei apostoli, ao r'ni d'ne n're Elizabethe, Dei gra. Anglie, Francie, et Hib'nie, regine, fidei defensor, &c. quadragesimo quarto, anno D'ni millessimo sexcentessimo secundo, et consecrationis n'rae, anno octavo.
Confirmation of the preceding Charter by King James.
JACOBUS, &c. omnibus ad quos presentes littere nostre patentes p'venerint, salutem. Inspeximus litteras patentes Tobie e'pi Dunelm. factas in hee verba [the charter rehearsed.] Sciatis, q'd nos de gra. n'ra spi'ali ac ex certa scientia et mero motu n'ris, co'cessimus, co'firmavimus, ratificamus, et approbavimus, ac p. p'sentes, p. nob. he'dibus et succ. n'ris, co'cedimus, co'firmamus, ratificamus, et app'bamus p'fat. majori, aldermanis, et co'itat. civitat. Dun. et Framwelgate p'dict. et succ. suis, quantu. in nobis est, om'es et omni'odas lib'tates, franches. jurisdicc'o'es, custum. consuetud. privileg. jura, im'unitates, quietanc. ac cet'a om'ia et sing'la in eisd. l'ris pat. content. et specificat. necnon p'dict. l'ras pat. p'd'ci e'pi, necno. om'ia al. lib'tates, franches. privilegia, im'unitat. et hereditamenta, que p'dict. major, aldermani, et co'itas civitat. Dun. et Fram. p'dict. aut eor. aliquis, habere, tenere, uti, vel gaudere debuerunt vel debent, rac'o'e et p'textu aliquar. chartar. aut l'rar. pat. per aliquem e'pum aut aliquos e'pos Dun. seu p. aliqua. al. personam, sive aliquas alias personas antè hac fact. et confirmat. vel concess. seu quocu'q. alio legali modo, jure, clameo, seu titulo antè hac habit. et usitat. Ac etia. co'cedimus p'fat. majori, aldermanis, et co'itat. civitat. Dun. et Framw. p'dict. et succ. suis, q'd ha'eant, teneant, utantur, et gaudeant, ac plenè h'ere, tenere, uti, et gaudere possint et valeant imp'p'm o'nes lib'tates et lib'as consuetudines, previleg. auctoritat. et quietanc. p'dict. se'd'm tenorem et eff'e'm d'ear. l'rar. pat. p'd'ci e'pi, sive occ'one vel impedimento n'ro he'dum vel succ. n'ror. quor'cumq. Nolentes q'd ijd. major, aldermani, et co'itat. civitat. Dun. et Framw. p'dict. eor p'missor. sive eor. aliquis, p. nos vel he'd. n'ros justiciar. vicecom. eschaetor. aut al. ballivos seu ministros n'ros he'dum seu successor. n'ror. quor'cunq. inde occ'onentur, molestentur, vexentur, seu graventur, occ'onetur, molestetur, vexetur, gravetur, seu in aliquo p'turbetur. Volentes, et p. p'sentes firmit. mandan. p. nob. h'd. et succ. n'ris, et p'cipientes tam thesaurar. cancellar. et baronib's n'ris, sec'ij n'ri, he'dum vel succ. n'ror. quem attornat. et solicitor n'r gen'al p. te'pe existen. et eor. cu'ib't et o'ib's al. ossiciar. et ministris n'ris quibuscu'q. q'd nec ipsi nec cor. aliquis sive aliqui aliquod bre. sive sum'onic'o'em de quo warranto seu aliquod aliu. bre. vel p'cess. n'r quecunq. versus p'dict. majorem, aldermanos, et co'itat. civ. Dun. et Framw. p'dict. vel cor. aliquem vel aliquos p. aliquib's causis, rebus, et materiis, ossen's, clameo, aut usurpac'o'e, aut cor. aliquis, p. ipsos sive eor. aliquos, debit. clamat. attempt. usitat. habit. seu usurpat. an. die co'sec
'o'is p'sentiu. p'sequantur aut continuantur, aut p'sequi aut continuari, saciant aut causabunt, seu eor. aliquis faciet et causabit. Volumus etia. ac p. p'sentes concedim. p'sat. majori, aldermanis, et co'itat.
iv. Dun. et Framw. q'd h'eant et h'abunt has l'ras n'ras pat. sub magno sigillo n'ro Anglie, debito modo
act et sigillat. absq. sine, seu feodo magno, vel p'vo nob. in hanap'io n'ro seu alibi, ad usum n'r'm proi
de quoquo modo redde'do, solvendo, seu faciend. Et q'd expressa men'co de vero valore annuo aut de aliqo al. valore e'titudine premissor. sive eor. alicujus aut de al. donis sive concessionibus per nos seu per aliqu. p'genitor. n'ror. p'sat. majori, aldermanis, et co'itat. civ. Dun. et Framw. an. haec t'pora facta in p'ntib's minimè sact. existit aut aliquo statuto, actu, ordinac'o'e, p'vis'o'
, p'elamac'o'e, sive restrie'o'e in contrariu. inde antè hac h'it. sact. edit. ordinat. seu p'vis. aut aliqua al. re, causa, vel materia quacunq. in aliqo non obstan. In cujus rei test. has l'ras n'ras fieri fecimus patentes, teste meipso, ap. Westm. quinto deci'o die Feb. a'o regni n'ri Anglie, Fr. et Hib. t'cio, et Scotie tricesimo nono. Per breve de privato sigillo.—
Clapham.
was much more ample than the preceding one: It opens with this preamble:
Tobias, by the grace of God, bishop of Durham. Whereas the city of Durham in the county palatine of Durham is, and time out of mind hath been, an ancient city, of good fame. And the burgesses, men and inhabitants of the said city, together with those of Framwelgate, have had and enjoyed divers rights, jurisdictions, liberties, and privileges, as well by prescription as by virtue of divers charters, grants, and confirmations, as well from us, as several of our predecessors, bishops of Durham. And the burgesses, men and inhabitants in time past, have suffered great damage, by reason of the defect of some of the said charters; and fearing lest in time to come they should be molested in the enjoyment of such their liberties and free customs, for want of publication, and other causes; they have therefore humbly entreated us to express, in special words, what the said liberties and free customs are, and to grant the same to the said burgesses and inhabitants and their successors, and to incorporate them,
&c. By this charter he constituted and granted, that the burgesses and inhabitants should be one body politic and corporate, consisting of a mayor, twelve aldermen, and commonalty, to continue for ever, by the name of mayor, aldermen, and commonalty of the city of Durham and Framwelgate, and by that title to plead and be impleaded in all courts of law within the county, with power to purchase lands not exceeding the yearly value of 100 marks, and to have a common seal. Hugh Wright was therein appointed the first mayor, to continue in office till the 4th day of October then next following, and then to be an alderman for life, to supply the number of twelve without any new election. Robt Sureties, Rich. Hutchinson, Edw. Wanles, Wm Hall, Ja. Farales, Tho. Pearson, John Wall, Edw. Taylor, Hugh Hutchinson, John Heighington, John Pattinson, and Richard Wright, were appointed aldermen for life. They were directed to chuse yearly twenty-four discreet men out of their several twelve arts, mysteries, or trades, that is to say, two out of the mercers, grocers, haberdashers, ironmongers, and salters; two of the drapers and taylors, two of the skinners and glovers, two of the tanners, two of the weavers, two of the dyers and fullers, two of the cordwainers, two of the saddlers, two of the butchers, two of the smiths, two of the carpenters and joiners, two of the free masons and rough masons, inhabitants of the city and Framwelgate, which, with the mayor and aldermen, should form a common council for the said city, and, on the 4th day of October yearly, to chuse a mayor out of the body of the said aldermen, it being requisite to have seven aldermen in the majority of votes on that occasion, with a power for a like majority to deprive or suspend the mayor for any offence committed in his office; and on such occasion, or on the death of the mayor, another chief magistrate should be in like manner elected, within eleven days from the time of such deprivation, to supply that year; and within three days after such election, to be sworn before the bishop for the time being, or, on the See being vacant, or the bishop being in distant parts, then before the chancellor of the county palatine, or, on his absence out of the jurisdiction, before the aldermen and the twenty-four common-councilmen, or the major part of them. On the fifth day of October, yearly, the said mayor, aldermen, and common council are directed to chuse two serjeants. On the death of a common councilman, the mayor and aldermen, within twenty days, are to nominate one in his stead, out of the same trade; and on the vacancy of an alderman within the same time, to nominate another out of the burgesses and inhabitants of the said city and Framwelgate. Any person elected mayor or alderman, and refusing to take upon him the office, is made subject to a fine not exceeding twenty pounds, to be levied on the desaulter's goods and chattles, or committed to the gaol at Durham till the same is paid; and such
ines to be applied to the public use of the city. They were also authorized to make laws, statutes, and ordinances, for the better government of the city, and the markets and fairs therein, and all officers, mysteries, artificers and inhabitants, and for regulating their several trades and mysteries; and the due preservation and management of the lands and possessions of the said body corporate. And for the better maintenance, state, and dignity of the said mayor, aldermen, and commonalty, the same charter grants them all courts, fairs, markets, tolls, perquisites, stallages, pontages, passages, customs, and all and singular liberties, franchises, profits, commodities, emoluments, and free customs, which at any time before the date thereof the burgesses had enjoyed, or the bailiffs or aldermen of the city had held and used, by virtue of any preceding charter, or by means of any custom or prescriptive right whatsoever; and that the said mayor, aldermen, and commonalty, and their successors, should hold their court within the city, from fifteen days to fifteen days for ever, and therein, before their steward, to hear and determine all actions, suits, quarrels, and demands, which might arise within the said city and Framwelgate; the serjeants having power to serve process, and enter into the lands, possessions, or shops of the parties, to satisfy the executions or judgments of the said court, or to attach their bodies and commit them to prison: They were also empowered to take cognizance of all pleas, as well real as personal or mixed in the said court, and have equal authority within their precincts as any other courts of the county palatine of Durham had. The steward was also authorised to punish the officers and ministers of the court by fine or imprisonment; and all such fines and profits were granted to the said mayor, aldermen, and commonalty; with view of frank-pledge, to be holden by their steward within the precincts of the city twice a year, within a month after Michaelmas and Easter; with power of settling the assize of bread and corn unground, and all other things for sale; and, in their leet, to punish offences; and the profits of such courts were also thereby granted to them. Also a market weekly
Die Sabbathi.
on Saturday, and three yearly fairs on the days appointed by bishop Pilkington's charter
See p. 29.
, with the profits and perquisites thereof; and every mayor for the time being was made clerk of the market, to enjoy the profits thereof.
This charter received royal confirmation by letters patent dated at Westminster the 14th day of February 1605, though it is apprehended, the bishop was competent to make his charter without the aid of the crown, and therefore this badge of honour, after the gilding of its dignity was removed, was no better than a scab on the constitution and privileges of the palatinate.
Notwithstanding the preceding charters, the bishops and their officers or lessees continued to take the tolls and dues of goods coming into the markets within the borough, and to appoint a bailliff of the borough, and clerk of the market. The record
RICHARDUS (Neile) Dei gra. ep. Dun. &c. Sciatis, &c. dedimus et concessimus, ac p. presentes, pro nob. et successor. n'ris, damus et concedimus Radulpho Allanson officium
ballivat.
civitat. et burgi nostri Dunelm. &c. habend. gaudend. et tenend et exercend officium pred. prefat Rad'o Allanson, p. se vel p. sufficient. deputat. suum, sive p. deputat. suos sufficientes, pro et durante termino vitae suae naturalis p'cipiend. annuatim de firmar. exitum civitat. et burgi praed. et mercatus ibidem pro exercitio officii predict. omnia et singula feod. et vadia eid. officio ab antiquo debita et consueta, una cum omnibus et singulis aliis regard. advantag. com'oditat. proficuis, preheminentiis, juribus, dignit. et consuetud. eid, officio qualitercunq. debit. consuet. et spectant. adeo plene, libere, et integre, et in tam amplis modo et forma prout Laur'us Halye, Tho. Gower, Rob'tus Raw, Ric'us Raw, Edw. Hutton, aut eorum aliquis, &c. Sciatis etiam, &c. dedimus et concessimus eid. Rad'o Allanson officium
cli'ci mercatus
n'ri infra civitatem et burgum pred. et suburb. ejusd. habend. tenend. occupand. et exercend. officium predict. eidem Radulpho Allanson, pro et durante termino vitae suae naturalis, p. se vel p. sufficient. deputat. &c. percipiend. in officio illo vadia et seoda eidem officio debit. et consuet dantes et concedentes eid. Rad'o Allanson plenam tenore praesentium potestatem faciend. exequend. et exercend. omnia et singula quae ad pred. officium cl'ici mercatus pred. p'tinent. faciend. et exequend. Damus insup. o'ibus et singulis ball. tenentibus, burgensibus, et firmar. n'ris, tam in pred. civitat. Dun. quam alibi, tenore praesentium, firmiter in mandatis aliosq. quor. interesse et contig. et rogamus q'd eid. Rad'o Allanson officia seperalia antedict. exequent. intendentes sint obedientes, consulentes, faventes, et auxiliantes prout decet. In cujus, &c. has l'ras n'ras sieri fec. pat. test. Ric. Hutton, cancellar. 15o die Oct. 1627.
Confirmation by Rich. Hunt, dean, and the chapter, &c. Dat. in domo n'ra capitulari Dun. 23o die men sis Octobris, A. D. 1627.
Pat. Joh. Stathom. de offic. ball. Dun. by bishop Dudley. Rot A. No 68. P'cipiend. annuatim in officio illo p. feod. suo, 66 s. 8 d. &c.—Randal's MSS.
Lib. K. p. 415. In canc. Dunelm. sexto die Sep. A. D. 1637, int. Tho. Mann et al's, quer. et Marg. Forster et al's, def'ts.—The bill was filed by lessees of the tolls, under a lease granted by Richard (Neile) bishop of Durham, dated 3d Oct. 3 Cha. I. 1628, under the yearly rent of 20 l. The defendants alledged, that the corn of which the toll was demanded, was not sold in the market, but by private contract, and delivered at the buyer's house, who lived in the limits of the borough. The following decree was made: "It appeared to this court, that scavadge corne is an ancient duty, time out of mind had and received by the bishop of Durham for the time being, his servants, tenants, or farmers of the said burrough markets or fayres, for all manner of corne and graine brought into the said markets and sayres, and otherwise sold in the said city of Durham. That the defendant Forster, besides other payments which were proved, did pay scavadge corne for 20 bushells of corne, which were brought to her in the week-day, and not on the markett day, and made agreement for the said scavadge corne, and was to pay and did pay in lewe thereof for some quantities of the said corne after the rate of one penny for every bushell of corn and graine she bought in the said markett or was brought unto her; and it then appeared, that the bringinge in of corne on the weeke day was to the manifest preventinge and hinderinge of the said compts. being farmers of the said scavadge corne, of the said duty and
olls of the said corne by ancient custom had and received as aforesaid; and did much tend to the inhancing of the prices of corne and graine, and was and is contrary to a proclamation made in the sixth year of his maj. reigne that now is, which is yet in force: Whereupon, and to the end this court might be better informed touchinge such order and proceedings as is elsewhere in matters of this nature, &c. this court did thinke fitt to respitt the final determination of the said differences until this sittinge, &c. Therefore, upon due consideration had of the proofs already made as aforesaid, and after perusal of divers suits and controversies which formerly had been moved and were then depending, as well at the common law, as also in his maj. courte of the dutchie chamber, betwene Rich. Prance als Prince, plaintiff, and major
nglebie, deputy bailiff of Knaisbrough in the county of York, and others, being the scavangers or gatherers of the markett sweepings or hand-law-corne of Knaisbrough aforesaid, defendants, touchinge the takeinge and distreyninge of certain corne in sacks of the said Richard, which was brought to the market of Knaisbrough to be sold for a due of markett sweepings or hand-lawe-corne claimed by the defendants as scavengers or gatherers of the said duty for the time being, It is ordered and decreed by the Right Hon. Sir Rich. Hu
ton, knt. one of his maj. justices of the court of common pleas at Westminster, and chancellor of the county palatine of Durham and Sadberge. That if the said defendants or any other person or persons do at any time henceforth bringe into the said city or burrough, or suburbs of the same, any corne or graine of what nature or kind soever to be sold, or to be delivered to any person or persons upon any bargaine or contracte for the same shall before such delivery thereof present the said corne or graine in the public markett place within the said city where such corne or graine is used or accustomed to be brought and sold in the markett days as aforesaid, and thereof shall give notice to the common officer or the gatherer or taker of such scavadge corne, and after such notice given, shall stay there a convenient tyme, to the end the complts. and others the farmers aforesaid, their servants or agents, may take their scavadge corne thereof. And because this court was informed, that the dish now used for the takinge of the said scavadge or s
avell corne, did conteyne much more than the antient dish wherewith the said s
avell or scavadge corne was usually taken and received did conteyne, and that the same is now reduced to the antient measure of a pinte dish, it is therefore likewise ordered by Mr Chancellor, that the said dish beinge of the measure of a pinte only, shall be from henceforth continuallye, and that quantitie and proportion to be taken for every bushell of the corne and graine so sould on the said markett and fayre dayes, and of every bushel of corn bought and delivered as aforesaid on the said weeke dayes, which are neither markett nor fayre dayes, shall conteyne onelie a pynte for every bushell, and so proportionabl
e according to that rate and no more, the bushell heare conteyinge 12 gallons at the least; and that no scavadge corne shall be taken, challenged, or demanded of any thinge there brought to he sould whatsoever, other than of corn, graine, oatemeale and salt onelie, and that not of any lesse quantitie thereof then of a bushell at the least, unlesse the owner shall at any tyme bringe a bushell or more to be sould, and of purpose to defraud and defeate the said duty, shall divide the same to be sould by peeks or lesser quantities than a bushell. And it is further ordered by this course, that the said pynte dish shall not be uppheaped, but by hand stroke and even s
ick
n by the taker thereof; and that the said dish shall be sealed and brought to the head burrowe courte to be holden for the said citty and burrowe of Durham next after the feast of St Michael the archangel, yearlie to be viewed by the then mayor, steward, and clerke of the said courte, and the suitors there present, to conteyne no more quantitie then onelie a pynte as aforesaid. And this courte doth further order and set downe, that when it shall happen that the duty of scavadge corne hath been taken one markett day, and that the corne be not sould but left unsould
bona fide
in the citty or suburbs, and kept until the next markett day, and then brought again to be sold the said next markett day; that no more scavadge corne shall be taken for the same corne for which the said duty of scavadge was paid. And whereas it was complained to this courte, that such as brought corne to be sould on the said markett or fayre days were oftentimes constreyned to stay untill one or two of the clock in the afternoon before they might vent or sell their said corne, in regard the markett bell hath not been sooner runge, and this courte was then moved to appoint a certain hour for the most convenience and tyme the corne bell should be rung, the rather for that as was alledged, sundrie persons in the winter season, whose dwellings are somewhat more remote from the said city, have been constreyned by the late ringing of the said bell to stay in the towne all night to their needless charge, and so to ryde home on the Sunday. Upon consideration had whereof, it is now likewise further ordered by the courte, that the said markett bell or corne bell shall for ever hereafter be runge at 12 o'clocke or near thereupon; and if the said bell shall not be runge at twelve o'clock or near that tyme, that then it shall be lawfull for every one to sell their corne at their pleasure; but that no corne shall be sould or carryed away before the houre of twelve of the clocke, and scavadge duty thereof taken, under the danger and penaltie that the same was subject unto before, if it had been sould before the markett bell or corne bell had been runge. And lastlie, it is ordered, that if the said dish shall not be sealed, or that the taker of the said scavadge corne doe not observe this order, that then such as shall have cause and be wronged, may from tyme to tyme compleyne at the next sessions of peace to be held for the county of Durham: Provided always, that this decree or any thing therein conteyned shall not extend to such only as buy corne at Newcastle and other places where toll of such corne is taken, and bring the same to their own houses in Durham, unlesse that the same parties do afterwards bringe such theire corne to the said city to be there sold againe, in which case onely, it shall be lawfull for the takers of the said scavadge corne to take toll of the said corne also accordinge to the proportion aforesaid.—
Mann's MSS.
given in the notes, was of so recent a date as the year 1627, after the time of granting bishop Matthew's charter; and the decree there stated was made in the year 1637.
The charter of bishop Matthew was kept in force until an order was made, on the 25th day of August 1684, to the following purport:
Then ordered by us the major, aldermen, and common councill in the common council assembled, or the majoritie of us, That the charter of incorporation of this city be forthwith surrendered under the common seal into the hands of the right honourable and right reverend father in God, Nathaniel, lord bishop of Durham, to be disposed of as his lordship pleaseth. In testimony whereof we have set our hands, the day and year first above written. (Signed) Jos. Hutchinson major, Jo. Morland, Jo. Duck, Mar. Allenson, Tho. Mascall, Jo. Hall, Cuthb. Hutchinson, Geo. Morland, aldermen; Wheatley, Dobson, and twenty-three others, common-councilmen
Pro nobis et successoribus n'ris, damus, concedimus, assignavimus, et sursum reddimus prenobili viro necnon Rev'ndus in Christo, &c. D'no d'no Nathaniel, Dei gra. ep'o
Dunelm. et Sadberg. et succ'oribus suis imp'p'm tam p'd'
as l'ras patentes sic ut prefertur nobis f'cas, &c. q'm o'ia et singula, jura, lib'tates, privilegia, franches, consuetudines, commoditates, et jurisdic'o'es quecunq. &c. Test. 25 Aug. 1684.
.
In pursuance of this order, the charter above-mentioned was surrendered to bishop Crewe, who granted a new charter to the city, bearing date the 7th of March 1684; but on account of some want of form in the surrender of Matthew's charter, it was deemed illegal and ineffectual, and the body corporate continued to act under the former until the year 1761, not enforcing any of the powers contained in Crewe's charter, and for that reason unnecessary to be set forth.
It appears, that in late years several innovations were practised in the city, by persons not free exercising their trades within the liberties, and apprentices gaining their freedom by illicit practices of the several companies. To prevent such abuses in future, the body corporate, at a public meeting, made bye-laws or ordinances, dated the 8th of November 1728, whereby they imposed a fine on all intruders, who should exercise their trades within the liberties, of twenty shillings a week, so long as they continued so to do
At a meeting of the mayor, aldermen, and commonalty of the city of Durham and borough of Framwelgate, held at the Guild-hall or Tollbooth within the said city the 8th day of Nov. 1728, the several orders and bye-laws herein-after-mentioned were then made by the said mayor, aldermen, and commonalty, to be observed and kept by them and by the wardens, stewards, and freemen of the several respective companies, fraternities, or fellowships in or belonging to the said city or borough.
WHEREAS divers persons have of late used and exercised trades within this city of Durham and burrough of Framwelgate, which trades by immemorial custom have belonged to some of the respective companies or fraternities within the said city or burrough, without being members or free of such company or fraternity there, to which the said trades respectively belonged, or of any other company or fraternity there, contrary to the said immemorial custom there used, and much to the prejudice of the said corporation and the other members of such companies or fraternities: For the remedying thereof, it is this day ordered by the mayor, aldermen, and commonalty of this corporation, That if any person or persons not being free of the company or fraternity within this corporation to which his their trade or trades hath or have usually belonged, in case the same so belonged to any, or if not, of some other company or fraternity within this corporation, he or they so offending shall forfeit to the mayor, aldermen, and commonalty of this corporation for the time being, Twenty Shillings for every week he or they so offending shall use and exercise such trade, to be by them recovered by action or distress of the goods of the offender or offenders respectively, which said respective sinns shall be paid by the mayor for the time being into the chest or hutch, for the use of the said mayor, aldermen, and commonalty, to defray any public expence that may happen to the said corporation and fraternities.
And it is likewise ordered by the said mayor, aldermen, and commonalty, that every person that shall hereafter be admitted a freeman into any company within the said city and burrough, shall pay the sum of One Shilling to the mayor of Durham for the time being, over and above the usual fees, which shilling shall be paid into the hutch for the purposes aforesaid.
And for the effectual preventing all persons being made free, that have not a right or title to their freedom in the said city, and for the better regulating the same, the mayor, one or more alderman or aldermen of the said city, and the wardens and stewards of the said several and respective companies for the time being, shall from henceforth meet at the Guild-hall or Tollbooth in the said city four times in every year, viz. on the first Monday after Martinmas, the first Monday after Candlemas, the first Monday after May-day, and the first Monday after Lammas; and every person that is hereafter to be admitted a freeman of the said city and burrough of Framwelgate, shall be then and there called at three of the said several meetings, before such his admittance to be a freeman, and to be approved of by the said mayor, and one or more alderman or aldermen, and the wardens and stewards of the several and respective company or fraternity for the time being, whereof he or they is or are to be made and admitted a freeman or freemen respectively, or the majority of the said mayor, alderman or aldermen, and wardens of such respective company then and there present.
And that any warden, steward, or other freeman, that will make any person a freeman of the said city, or of any company therein, contrary to this order or bye-law, shall respectively forfeit and pay the sum of Thirty Pounds to the mayor, aldermen, and commonalty of the said city of Durham, to be by them recovered by action or distress of the offenders goods or otherwise, and to be paid into the hutch for the purposes aforesaid.
And that the town-clerk of the said city for the time being shall attend at such the said meetings, to call every such person or persons as is or are to be admitted a freeman or freemen, and enter his or their names as a freeman in a book to be kept for that purpose, for which every person so admitted a freeman shall pay him six-pence as his fee for his doing thereof, over and above his usual fee.
And it is further ordered, that if any freeman of any company whatsoever within the said city or burrough of Framwelgate shall take an apprentice after a clandestine manner, only with intent or design to make him free of the said city and burrough, and doth not actually teach his said apprentice the art and mystery of which he the said master is free, but shall turn or assign him over, or suffer him to go to some other master not freeman of the same company, or to some other place out of the said city or burrough, or the liberties thereof, to learn his trade, and only serve his master at certain times, he the said master shall forfeit the sum of Thirty Pounds to and for the use and benefit of the said mayor, aldermen, and commonalty for the purposes aforesaid, and to be recovered as aforesaid; and that any apprentice so bound, and who shall not serve his apprenticeship fairly and regularly with a freeman of the same company to which he is bound as an apprentice in the city of Durham or burrough of Framwelgate, or be legally assigned over to a trading freeman of such fraternity inhabiting within the said city or suburbs, not to be entitled to his freedom in the said city of Durham or burrough of Framwelgate upon any pretence whatsoever.
And in case the mayor of the said city for the time being shall swear such apprentice or any other person that hath not actually served seven years as an apprentice with a freeman of one of the said companies or fraternities belonging or used in the said city, or shall not be justly entitled to the same by ancient usage or custom within the said city, shall forfeit and pay the sum of Thirty Pounds into the said hutch for the benefit and purpose aforesaid; which said sum of thirty pounds shall be recovered by the succeeding mayor, or the aldermen and commonalty, by action or distress of the goods of the offender, or otherwise. In witness whereof the mayor, aldermen, and commonalty aforesaid have respectively hereunto subscribed their names the day and year within written. (Signed) Hen. Forster, mayor; Ra. Gelson, Cuth. Bainbridge, Tho. Dunn, Rich. Stonehewer, John Gray, Fr. Cornforth, Mich. Brabin, Rob. Smith, Giles Rain, Rob. Wharton, Geo. Dale, Geo. Bowes, John Lambe, aldermen; Wm Richardson, Ra. Bainbridge, Mich. Brown, Tho. Mellmerby, Tho. Sheffield, Tho. Mason, John White, Jos. Woodmass, Wm Arrowsmith, John Potts, Cuth. Bainbridge, Edw. Davison, Oliver Paxton, Tho. Thompson, Rob. Parkin, Sam. Corner, Nath. Robinson, Jos. Busby, Tho. Craggs, Rob. White, Wm Botcherby, Rob. Dixon, John Horsman, John Sikes, Philip Hazard, common-council-men.—The bye-laws were also assented to by twenty-four common-council-men afterwards elected.
; and ordained, that the mayor should hold four guild days in the year, at three of which, every person claiming title to his freedom should be called before he should be admitted, under a penalty against the warden of the trade in which any breach of the rule was committed of 30l. And also to prevent taking apprentices who should not manually serve seven years to his master, under a penalty of 30l. against the master, and a like penalty of 30l. against the mayor for swearing in any illegal person.
Notwithstanding such prudent regulations, several efforts were made to evade the ordinances, and in the year 1756 an experimental freedom was created to try the legality of the bye-laws or rules last mentioned, which brought on a legal discussion, in the result, confirming them as consistent with law and the constitution of the incorporation
Green against mayor of Durham.—King's Bench, Hilary Term, 30 Geo. II. 26th Jan. 1757.—Burrow's Reports, vol. i. p. 127.
This case was set down in the crown paper as a special verdict, and was so called and argued by one council on each side, in the same manner as if it had been a special verdict: But it was only a verdict on six several traverses to the return of a mandamus (on 9 Ann, c. 20) directed to the mayor of Durham, commanding him to swear and admit Robert Green into the place and office of a freeman of the company or fraternity of freemasons of the city of Durham.
The right set up by Robert Green was, his having been duly elected and admitted a freeman of the company; but the objection to his being sworn by the mayor was, "that he had not conformed to certain bye-laws particularly specified in the return, and found by the verdict."
The return was, That Durham is, and for time immemorial hath been, an ancient city, &c. and also that a power is given by a charter of Tobias, then bishop of Durham, in 44 Eliz. confirmed by James I. to the mayor, aldermen, and common council for the time being, or the major part of them (of whom the mayor and six of the aldermen to be seven) to make bye-laws in the stead, for, and in the name of the whole corporate body of the city of Durham and Framwelgate.
Then the return set forth, that certain bye-laws were duly made by the mayor, aldermen, and commonalty, in due manner met and assembled at the Guild-hall, &c. on the 8th Nov. 1728, and particularly specifies three several bye-laws as having been then and there made by them, for calling the names at four meetings, and the penal laws against the wardens and the mayor, &c.—
Vide bye-laws on the preceding page.
All which said several ordinances and bye-laws, the return alledges to have, ever since the making thereof, been constantly observed and kept, &c. and to be still in their full force and virtue, &c.
That Robert Green was not elected and admitted a freeman of the said company of free-masons, rough-masons, wallers, paviors, plasterers▪ slaters, and bricklayers.
That Green was never duly called to be a freeman of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, nor ever approved of by the mayor, or one or more alderman or aldermen of the city of Durham and Framwelgate aforesaid, and the warden and stewards of the said company or fraternity of free-masons, &c. before his supposed election and admission to be a freeman of the said company or fraternity, according to the first ordinance or bye-law above-mentioned, as he ought to have been.
And for these reasons, the said mayor has not sworn and admitted him, nor administred the oaths usually taken for the due execution of the said office.
Upon this return, Green takes six several traverses, on which issues were tried.—1st issue, That the mayor, aldermen, and commonalty, did not duly meet, &c. 8th Nov. 1728, in order to make bye-laws, &c.
modo et
&
d issue, That they did not in due manner make the first bye-law mentioned in the return.— 3d issue, That they did not in due manner make the second bye-law mentioned in the return. 4th issue, The like denial of their making the third bye-law mentioned in the return. 5th issue, That he was elected and admitted a freeman of the said company or fraternity of free-masons, &c. as in the writ is alledged▪ 6th issue, That he was duly called to be a freeman of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate aforesaid, and was approved by the wardens and stewards of the said company to be a freeman of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate.
The jury find;—as to the 1st issue, That upon the 8th of Nov. 1728, the then mayor, aldermen, and commonalty did in due manner meet and assemble at, &c. in order, &c. in such manner and form as the said mayor by his return hath alledged.—As to the 2d issue, That the said mayor, aldermen, and commonalty did then and there in due manner make the first bye-law in the return mentioned, in such manner and form as is therein by the said mayor alledged.—As to the third issue, That they did in due manner make the second bye-law in manner and form, &c.—As to the 4th issue, The like finding with regard to the third bye-law.— As to the 5th issue, That Green was elected and admitted a freeman as in and by the writ is alledged; but that before such his admittance, he was not called at any meeting held according to the said bye-law in the said second issue mentioned, nor approved of by the then mayor, and one or more alderman or aldermen, and warden and stewards of the said company or fraternity, nor by a majority of them according to the said bye-law.—As to the 6th issue, That the said Robert Green was not duly called to be a freeman of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, and approved of by the wardens and stewards of the said company or fraternity of free-masons, rough-masons, &c. to be a freeman of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate.
This case was argued on the 24th of Nov. 1756, by Mr Ambler for the plaintiff, and Mr Clayton for the defendant; when the court ordered it to stand for judgment to the then next term: And lord Mansfield then delivered the resolution of the court—The general question depends upon Robert Green's right to the franchise which he claims—The objection to his right arises from his not being qualified according to the bye-law—If the bye-law is good and binding, and he appears to be an object of it, he is certainly not qualified, and the mayor has returned a sufficient reason for not admitting and swearing him—All the objections which have been made, therefore, tend to set aside the bye-law; or if the bye-law be good, to shew that Green's case is not within it.—It has been argued, that the bye-law is void upon two grounds; 1st, for want of authority to make it; 2dly, from the subject matter.—As to the first, the objection is, that the bye-laws are returned to be made by the mayor, aldermen, and commonalty; whereas the power is given to the mayor, aldermen, and twenty-four common-council, or the major part of them, of whom the mayor and six aldermen should be seven.—ANSWER. The power to the select number is, "To make bye-laws in the stead, for, and in the name of the whole corporate body." These bye-laws might be made by the select number, acting in the name of the whole incorporate body, and must be so intended: For the jury find, "That they did in due manner meet, and in due manner make the bye-laws."—As to the second, That the bye-law is unreasonable and void: For it is likened to the case of the taylors of Ipswich, (2. Co 53.) a bye-law that none should work at his trade until he had presented himself to the company of taylors, and proved that he had served seven years as an apprentice, and admitted by them to be a sufficient workman.— ANSW. In that case the bye-law was against law; it was against the 5th of Eliz. and a further restraint than that act made.—But this bye-law is not against any law; it is not a restraint upon trade, but seems a reasonable regulation, to prevent persons being unduly made free, who are not entitled by birth-right, service, or purchase; it provides a method for previously examining into the right of those who claim to be made free.— OBJECTION. That there is no method to compel a meeting of the mayor, alderman or aldermen, and the wardens and stewards of companies.— ANSW. This objection extends equally to all corporate assemblies, by custom, charter, or bye-law; but there is a known method by Mandamus.—OBJECT. If a person has a right to be admitted a freeman, yet unless he be approved of by the mayor, &c. he is not to be admitted; and there is no method to compel them to approve.—ANSW. If the mayor, &c. disapprove without a cause, a Mandamus will lie, suggesting the qualification and right of the person claiming to be a freeman, and commanding the mayor to approve and admit. But supposing the bye-law good, it has been argued that this case is not within it.—1st OBJECT. The Mandamus is to admit Green to the freedom of the company; the bye-law relates only to the freedom of the city.—ANSW. It appears by the second bye-law to be the same thing.—2d OBJECT. The bye-law prohibits, indeed, the election of persons not called and approved, &c. and subjects disobedience to a penalty; but does not make the election void, and cannot transfer the right of election vested in the electors to the mayor. —ANSW. These objections are sounded upon a misunderstanding of the bye-law, and a misconception of the nature of the case. The writ recites "That Green had been duly elected and admitted a freeman," and therefore commands the mayor to swear him—The mayor returns the bye law, &c and that before Green's supposed election and admittance (by the company) to be a freeman, "he was not called and approved by the mayor, &c." And the fact found by the jury is▪
"That he was elected and admitted by the company, but not called and approved by the mayor, &c." So that it appears upon this record, that the intent of the bye-law was, that no person should be elected and admitted a freeman of the company, unless he was called at the assembly and approved, &c. which was a previous act to be done, before the company could elect him,—the way to prevent the abuse "That the company unduly admitted persons to their freedom." The second bye-law inflicts a penalty on the company who should make any one free without the previous calling and approbation. And the third bye-law inflicts a penalty on the mayor who should swear any such person.—The stating the fact answers both the objections: For the bye-law makes the appearance and approbation a necessary qualification to the being made free by the company; and a restraint upon them, to elect any one to his freedom, before his conforming to the bye-law: And the right of election is not transferred to the mayor, but remains where it was.—OBJECT. It is not returned, that there was any assembly, at which Green might appear to be called.—ANSW. It shall be intended: And if in fact there was no assembly, Green might have pleaded it excuse.—OBJECT. He might have been elected and admitted before the making this bye-law.—ANS. The jury have found, "That he was elected and admitted; but that he was not called and approved pursuant to the bye-law:" So that the bye-law was in being at the time of his election.
It is to be observed, that it is not stated, what is the method of the company's electing freemen, nor any thing in the charter concerning it. For aught that appears, the first bye-law may be agreeable to the ancient usage, and revived by this bye-law, and enforced by penalties. But supposing it to be introductory of a previous qualification, it seems to be reasonable, and well calculated to prevent improper persons, not entitled, being made free. It is much more reasonable than the custom of London, "that no broad cloth should be sold but what was brought to Blackwell-Hall to be examined," 5. Co. 62. Yet this custom was held good, because it was to prevent fraud.
We are of opinion, that none of the objections are well sounded, and, therefore, that the return ought to be allowed.—Consequently, as this was the case of traversing the return to a Mandamu
, pursuant to the stat. 9 Ann, cap. 20. the rule was taken,
That judgment be entered for the defendant.
.
The hydra of innovation gained strength by the loss of the above project; for, upon the arguments in the King's Bench, discovery was obtained how to overset the
whole of the above prudential rule, and let in a shoal of freemen, who might, at the election of members of parliament, exercise the freedom of voting, and thereby depreciate the privileges of the burgesses who had acquired their franchise under the powers of the chartered incorporation. This project was played off in the year 1761, and threw the whole city into confusion, creating, in the event, such a division in the body, that they refused to join in the exercise of the powers of their charter; so that, in the year 1768, the number of members prescribed for carrying into execution the several powers of the charter, was lost, and the charter itself became disolved and obsolete. In Mr Mann's MSS.
Penes
G. Allan.
is the following account of the transactions in 1761:
The bye-law of 1728 was found to be a good and wholesome law, and answered the end for which it was made, by preventing persons being made free who had no right to their freedom; and other orders and bye-laws were afterwards made, tending to the same purpose, which were constantly observed until the 13th of October 1761, some short time after the death of Henry Lambton,
esq
one of the members in parliament for the city, when the mayor, with some of the aldermen and common council, made an order or bye-law to repeal or make void the former, thereby altering the manner of admitting freemen prescribed in such former orders or bye-laws.
On the 2d of November 1761, at a meeting of some of the aldermen and common council at the toll-booth, under this new order or bye-law, the town-clerk
Mr Robt Robinson, attorney at law.
, by their order, in an arbitrary and hasty manner, did call over the names of several persons to the number of 264, or thereabouts, living in different counties, in order to be admitted freemen of the said city, though no way entitled thereunto, several wardens of different companies and freemen then and there objecting and protesting against the same; but no notice was taken of such objections and protests; and at the election of a member for the city, in the place of Mr Lambton, which began on the 7th of December 1761, 215 persons so called on the 2d of November, were admitted to poll as freemen of the city.
The candidates in this election were, Ralph Gowland
esq
of Durham, then major of the Durham regiment of militia, and major-general John Lambton,
esq
of Harraton, in the county of Durham. The poll continued six days: At the conclusion the numbers stood, for Mr Gowland (including the 215 occasional freemen) 775, for Mr Lambton 752; so that Mr Gowland was returned elected with a majority of 23 votes: But upon a petition by Mr Lambton, the house of commons, on Tuesday the 11th of May 1762, resolved, that the 215 made or pretended to be made free, had no right to vote, and that general Lambton was duly elected; on a division of the house, 88 against 72.
The members of the incorporated body being thrown into distraction by this strange transaction, as was observed before, suffered their charter to be vacated
The following petition was presented to bishop Trevor for a new charter; but he died before the matter was proceeded in, and the petition was renewed to his successor.
To the honourable and right reverend father in God, Richard, lord bishop of Durham. The humble petition of all the several companies and fraternities of and within the city of Durham,
Humbly sheweth,
THAT by charter formerly granted by Tobias Matthew, bishop of Durham, in the reign of the late queen Elizabeth, the commonalty of the city of Durham were incorporated, and were made to consist of three integral parts, viz. a mayor, twelve aldermen, and twenty-four common councilmen, who by the said charter were invested with divers powers and authorities, and particularly a power was by the said charter given to the said mayor and aldermen, and their successors, solely of choosing and electing two such persons from each of the twelve trades therein named, as they should think proper, who were to be of the common council of the said city, together and along with the said mayor and aldermen.
And your petitioners further humbly shew unto your lordship, that by the death and amotion of several of the aldermen who acted under the said charter, the persons now being or taking upon themselves to be aldermen of the said city, are so reduced in point of number, as to be disabled from doing many corporate acts in cases where a particular number of the said mayor and aldermen is by the said charter required, by which means the said charter in some instances is rendered totally of no use.
And your petitioners further humbly shew unto your lordship, that they have been informed that a petition has already been presented, or is intended to be presented to your lordship for a new charter, subscribed only by a small part of the body of freemen of and belonging to the said city, many of whom not knowing the purport or meaning thereof, were induced to sign the same, but being since more rightly informed, are now very desirous that the said petition should be retracted and suppressed.
And your petitioners humbly submit to your lordship, that the power given to the mayor and aldermen of the said city by the said old charter, solely of choosing the common council, is contrary to the mode of electing in such cases given by almost every other charter in the kingdom, is very unreasonable, has all along been attended with great inconveniences, and particularly of late years, the same having been productive of many mischiefs, expensive law-suits, and other very disagreeable incidents, and is of great detriment and oppression to the said several companies and fraternities, who by such means are not represented by two such persons of their respective companies as they would respectively desire to appoint.
That the said old charter directs the mayor and aldermen, and their successors for the time being, or the major part of them, should yearly on the third day of October assign, name and choose twenty-four persons of the most discreet and upright men, (that is to say) two out of those twelve several arts, meetings, or faculties following (to wit) two out of the mercers, grocers, haberdashers, ironmongers and salters, two out of the drapers and taylors, two out of the skinners and glovers, two out of the tanners, two out of the weavers, two out of the dyers and fullers, two out of the cordwainers, two out of the sadlers, two out of the butchers, two out of the smiths, two out of the carpenters and joiners, and two out of the free masons and rough masons, to be of the common council of the said city.
That there are within the said city three other trades or mysteries, viz. the goldsmiths, plumbers, pewterers, potters, glaziers, and painters, the curriers and tallow chandlers, the barbers and ropers, who apprehend they have been injured in their liberties and privileges as freemen of the said city, and are desirous of being represented as a part of the collective body of the said corporation, equally and in the same manner with the other twelve trades above-mentioned.
To the intent therefore that your petitioners (who are by much the greater part of the freemen residing in or near the said city) and their successors freemen of all the several companies and fraternities aforesaid, may be equally and properly represented by two of the most able and discreet persons out of each of the said companies or fraternities respectively, your petitioners, with all humble submission and deference to your lordship, pray, that your lordship will be pleased, in the framing of such new charter, to order and direct, that such able and discreet persons as aforesaid may be annually elected and sent, as well from each of the said three trades or mysteries last above-mentioned, as from the twelve trades in the said old charter named, who may be of the common council of the said city, together and along with the said mayor and aldermen for the time being: And that the right of electing such common councilmen may be vested in the several companies from which they shall respectively be sent; and which mode and right of electing the said common council, your petitioners humbly hope, your lordship will not only approve of, but grant, as being not only reasonable, but also consistent with and agreeable to almost every other corporation charter in the kingdom.
And your petitioners further humbly hope and pray, that your lordship at the time of granting such new charter will, according to your wonted and well-known goodness, be pleased to appoint such persons to be the new mayor, aldermen, and common councilmen as shall, by a majority of the said several companies and fraternities at a general meeting of the same, be recommended to your lordship as the most proper persons to fill such offices.
And that such further and other wholesome and salutary laws and ordinances may in the said new charter be contained, as will have a manifest tendency to, and promote within the said city, good rule and government, and a due administration of public justice, and as to your lordship shall seem meet.
And your petitioners, as in duty bound, shall ever pray, &c.
. Under this predicament the city remained until the 2d of October 1780, when the present bishop of Durham was graciously pleased to grant a new charter as follows.
"John by the grace of God, bishop of Durham. Whereas the city of Durham in the county palatine of Durham is, and for time whereof the memory of man is not to the contrary, hath been, an ancient city, and the burgesses, men and inhabitants of the said city, together with the men and inhabitants of Framwelgate near the said city in the county aforesaid, have had and enjoyed divers rights, liberties, jurisdictions, franchises and privileges, as well by prescription as by reason of divers charters, grants and confirmations, by divers of our predecessors bishops of Durham: And whereas our predecessor TOBIAS, by the grace of God (formerly bishop of Durham) by his letters patent under the seal of the said county palatine, bearing date the twenty-first day of September, in the forty-fourth year of the reign of the lady Elizabeth, late queen of England, and in the year of our Lord one thousand six hundred and two, did will, ordain, constitute and grant for him and his successors, as much as in him laid, that the burgesses, men and inhabitants of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, should be one body politic and incorporate, of a mayor, twelve aldermen and commonalty, to endure for ever: And further, that the said burgesses, men and inhabitants, for ever, should be one body politic and corporate, in deed, fact and name, by the name of
the mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city of Durham and Framwelgate;
and did for himself and his successors, really and fully, as much as in him lay, thereby erect, make, ordain, constitute and create them one body corporate and politic, by the name of
the mayor, aldermen, and commonalty of the city of Durham and Framwelgate,
and did decree and declare them and their successors for ever to be incorporated, united and established one body corporate and politic, by the name of
the mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city of Durham and Framwelgate,
and did decree and declare them and their successors for ever to be incorporated, united and established one body, and that they should be for ever named and called
the mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city of Durham and Framwelgate,
and by that name have perpetual succession, and should be for all future times persons able and capable in law, and that by the same name they might plead and be impleaded, and under the aforesaid name might prosecute, defend or answer in and for all and all manner of causes, complaints, actions and suits, real, personal and mixed, of what nature or kind soever, before whatsoever judges, as well spiritual as temporal, in all courts of him and his successors within the county palatine of Durham and Sadberge, and as much as in him laid elsewhere in all other courts and places whatsoever: And that the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city of Durham and Framwelgate, and the successors of them, should be able and capable in law to purchase and receive lands, tenements, annuities, rents, services, advowsons, patronage of churches, emoluments, possessions and hereditaments; and also all goods and chattels whatsoever, as well spiritual as temporal, of any person or persons whomsoever, who would give, grant, leave, sell or assign the same unto them, so that the said lands, tenements, hereditaments and premisses by them to be taken and purchased, should not exceed the yearly value of one hundred marks; to hold to them and their successors according to the states and forms of the same gifts, grants, bequests, sales, and purchases, without the molestation or disturbance of him or his successors, or of his or their officers or ministers whatsoever, saving always to the said late bishop and his successors, all fines, forfeitures, and royal rights, by or by reason of the same gifts, bequests, sales, or purchases, howsoever arising and happening to him and his successors, due and of right accustomed.
And that the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city of Durham and Framwelgate, should have one
common seal
to seal all and singular writings, charters, and instruments, any way touching or concerning them the mayor, aldermen and commonalty and their successors, or their lands, tenements, hereditaments, goods, chattels, or public affairs.
And for the better execution of the premisses, he did thereby assign, make, constitute and name
Hugh Wright,
one of the burgesses and inhabitants within the aforesaid city of Durham, to be the
first
and modern
mayor
of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, and afterwards to be one of the aldermen of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate; and did also thereby assign, name and constitute, for him and his successors,
twelve
other burgesses and inhabitants within the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, in the said charter or letters patent named, to be
aldermen
of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate.
And did thereby also will and grant, that the mayor and aldermen of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, and their successors for the time being for ever, should yearly chuse and name
twenty-four
other discreet men out of the twelve several arts, mysteries, or faculties, and in the manner therein mentioned, who should be resident, commorant, and inhabitant within the said city of Durham and Framwelgate: And that the mayor, aldermen, and twenty-four other discreet men of the said city, should be the
common council
of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate: And by the said letters patent, did give and grant powers to chuse future mayors, aldermen and common council, together with divers other powers, liberties, privileges, franchises, immunities, and jurisdictions.
And whereas it appears to us, that by several disputes, events and accidents, no mayor, aldermen, or twenty-four, so to be elected as aforesaid, can in future be elected, under or by virtue of the powers and authorities given and granted by the said letters patent or otherwise; and the said corporation of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate is incapable of doing any corporate act, and is dissolved, or in great danger of being dissolved.
And whereas divers of the burgesses of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, as well on the behalf of themselves, as all other the burgesses thereof, have most humbly besought us to shew and extend our grace and favour to the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, and that it would please us to revive the said corporation, and to restore to them their ancient franchises, privileges and immunities, by granting them a new charter of incorporation, with such powers and authorities as we should think proper, and with provisions to prevent, as far as may be, divers inconveniences and dangers, which the said corporation, from the form of the said charter or letters patent of the said late bishop of Durham, were exposed to; and we being willing to give relief in the premisses, as far as in us lieth, KNOW YE THEREFORE
Extracts from the report of James Wallace,
esq
the bishop's attorney-general, dated
7th Aug.
1773.
The title of some of the aldermen was disputed upon the grounds of their not being inhabitants within Durham or Framwelgate at the time of their elections, which is a qualification required by the charter, and had been disregarded in the election of aldermen in a variety of instances at different periods. Informations in the nature of quo warranto were filed in the court of King's Bench at Westminster, against the earl of Darlington, the hon. Frederick Vane, John Tempest,
esq
Ra. Bowser, and John Hopper, who were removed from their office of aldermen either by judgment of ouster or disclaimer, and the hon. Gilbert Vane resigned his office.
The election of the common-council on the 3d of Oct. 1766, was attended with disorder and confusion, and mistakes and irregularities were then committed in the choice of some of them, which in their consequences affected the title of Mr John Lambe in the office of mayor, to which he was elected the day following; and on an information in the nature of quo warranto, judgment was obtained against him for exercising the office of mayor under that election, and from that time there has not been any legal mayor.
By the means before stated, and by the natural deaths of Mr Tho. Hornsby and Mr Jos. Gray, the aldermen are reduced to four, namely, Mr Tho. Dunn residing in Elvet, Mr Tho. Bainbridge residing in Stockton, Mr John Drake Bainbridge residing at Durham, Mr Benj. Whitaker residing in America and not likely to return, and who before his departure signified his intention to resign his office of alderman.
In this situation, the powers and authorities vested in the corporation are suspended; and as the charter made a greater number of aldermen than at present exist essential to the election of a mayor and aldermen, I conceive it is impossible for the corporation to preserve or continue itself by the operation of the stat. of 11th Geo. I. or by any other means.
The expediency of a charter to revive the corporation, is admitted by the petitioners, and cannot be denied or doubted. The members of the corporation, and those entitled to the privileges and advantages of it, are not the only persons interested: many charities are in the disposal of the corporation, the objects of which t
o sensibly find the benevolent designs of the founders prevented and frustrated. There are besides, public reasons, which render a new charter immediately necessary.
I conceive your lordship is possessed of
jura regalia
within the county palatine of Durham, subject to the prohibitions and restrictions contained in the stat. of 27th Hen. VIII. ch. 24. and that the sole power of granting a new charter to the city of Durham and Framwelgate is vested in your lordship.
It appears to me, that the old charter should be the basis of the new one, and to be departed from in those particular provisions only, which have in experience been found, or probably may be inconvenient to the corporation.
By the old charter, the residence of an alderman within the city of Durham at the time of his election, is an indispensible qualification, &c. If the circuit of the city of Durham and Framwelgate shall not be sufficient for the supply of proper persons to fill the office of aldermen, your lordship may in the new charter enlarge the bounds,
1 Strange, 177.—That the king by letters patent may enlarge the boundaries of a city.
The ceremony of granting the charter at Durham-castle 2d Oct.
1780.
The members of the new corporation being assembled in the breakfast room, were introduced by his lordship's secretary —The several petitions were presented, and the solicitor delivered the draft of the new charter, approved by the bishop's attorney-general—The exemplification, laid on a velvet cushion, was signed and sealed; then delivered to the mayor by the bishop, wishing prosperity to the new corporation; the mayor received it on bended knee—The corporation thus created, the mayor, aldermen, recorder, and town-clerk put on their gowns, and the mayor kneeling took the oath, after him the aldermen, &c. and the bishop attested the entry of the oaths in the corporation book—The corporation, &c. were then regaled, the freemen were entertained in the great hall, the fountains in the great court ran with liquor for the populace—The mayor delivered the charter to the recorder, and he to the town-clerk, when they moved in proce
on; the constables, wardens of the companies, the flags and banners of the companies, city music, drums, serjeants at mace, the town-clerk's clerk with the corporation book, &c. the town-clerk bearing the charter on a velvet cushion, on his left the secretary with the petitions, on his right the solicitor with the draft of the charter; the mayor, the recorder, aldermen two and two, inferior officers, &c.—Having arrived at the town-hall amidst the acclamations of the people, the mayor received the charter, and in a short speech congratulated the citizens, who answered with repeated huzzas—The secretary then addressed the citizens, expressing his lordship's joy in restoring to them their ancient franchises and privileges, which was received with loud acclamations; after which, the charter was read aloud, and the recorder made a short oration on the duty of the citizen, which was received with the like expressions of popular applause. After the members of the corporation had signed the book and deposited the charter, the rest of the day was devoted to
estivity and rejo
cing.
or provide that a certain number of aldermen shall be inhabitants, &c.
that we of our special grace, certain knowledge, and mere motion, have willed, granted, ordained, constituted, confirmed and declared, and by these presents do, for us and our successors, as far as in us lieth, will, grant, ordain, constitute, confirm and declare,
That the burgesses, men and inhabitants of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, by whatsoever name or names of incorporation they have heretofore been incorporated, may, and shall for ever be,
one body corporate and politic,
of a mayor, twelve aldermen and commonalty: And the said burgesses for ever hereafter may and shall be one body corporate and politic, in deed, fact and name, by the name of
the mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city of Durham and Framwelgate.
And we also by these presents for us and our successors, as much as in us lieth, really and fully erect, make, ordain, create, constitute, confirm and declare them to be one body corporate and politic, in deed, fact and name, by the name of mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city of Durham and Framwelgate, and that by the same name they shall have perpetual succession; and that they, by the name of mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city of Durham and Framwelgate, may and shall be at all times hereafter persons able and capable in law to have,
purchase, receive, and possess
lands, tenements, annuities, rents, services, advowsons, patronage of churches, emoluments, possessions and hereditaments, and also goods and chattels, as well spiritual as temporal, from whatever person or persons who will give, grant, bequeath, sell or assign unto them, so that the said lands, tenements, hereditaments and premisses by them to be taken or acquired, do not exceed the annual value of one hundred marks: To hold to them and their successors, according to the condition and form of such gift, bequest, sale, or acquisitions, without the molestation or interruption of us or our successors, or any of our officers or ministers whatsoever; saving always to us and our successors, all fines, forfeitures, royalties and rights, which by reason of such gifts, bequests, sales or acquisitions, shall be issuing or happening to us and our successors, due and of right accustomed: And also to give, grant, release, assign and dispose of lands, tenements, and hereditaments, goods and chattels, and to do and execute all other acts and things by the name aforesaid.
And that they by the same name of the mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city of Durham and Framwelgate, may, and shall be able
to plead and be impleaded,
and to
prosecute, defend or answer,
as well in the several courts within the county palatine of Durham and Sadberge, as in all other courts and places, and before whatever judges, justices, and other officers, as well spiritual as temporal, in all causes, complaints, actions and suits, real, personal and mixed, of whatsoever nature, kind or sort.
And that they the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, and their successors, may and shall for ever hereafter have a
common seal,
wherewith shall be sealed all and singular writings, charters and instruments, in any manner touching or concerning them the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty and their successors, or their lands, tenements, hereditaments, goods, chattels, or public affairs: And that it shall and may be lawful for the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty and their successors, from time to time, at their pleasure, to break, alter and renew
The corporation have not had a new seal cut in pursuance of their new charter, but in all corporate acts use the old seal, as depicted in the next page.
the said seal, as to them shall seem meet and expedient.
And we do further will, and by these presents for us and our successors grant, that for ever hereafter, one of the most honest and discreet aldermen of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, to be nominated and elected in the manner hereafter in these presents mentioned, shall be, and shall be called the
mayor
of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, and that in like manner there shall and may be
twelve
other honest and discreet burgesses, to be elected in the manner hereafter in these presents mentioned, besides the mayor of the city aforesaid for the time being, who shall be, and shall be called
aldermen
of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate; and that there shall and may be hereafter a
common council
of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, to consist of the mayor and aldermen of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, for the time being, and
twenty-four
other persons, to be elected in the manner hereinafter in these presents mentioned; and for the better execution of our will and grant in this behalf, we have appointed, named, created, constituted and made, and by these presents for us and our successors, do appoint, name, create, constitute and make, our trusty and well-beloved
John Drake Bainbridge
MAYORS of the City of DURHAM.
First mayor, Hugh Wright, ap. by bishop Tobias 21st Sept. 1602
James Farrales elected 4th Oct. 1602
Edw. Wanles, dyer 1603
Tho. Pearson 1604
[An order was made on the 4th of Oct. concerning such persons as were then
cted with the plague within the ci
and borough.]
Wm Hall, draper 1605
Robt Suerties, mercer 1606
Hugh Hutchinson, tanner 1607
John Pattinson, mercer 1608
Edw. Wanles, dyer 1609
Hugh Wright, gent. 27th Feb. 1611 1610
Wm Hall, 14th Aug. 1612, called to account 1611
1612
1613
1614
1615
1616
Geo. Walton 1617
[The market cross was erected this year at the expence of Tho. Emerson, of Black-Friars, London. And on the 18th of April, K. James came in state to the city; and was received by the mayor, who made an elegant speech on the occasion, and presented his majesty with a gold cup: At the same time on apprentice spoke some verses before the king.]
Wm Hall, oc. 30th Aug. 1619 1618
Wm Hall, oc. again 10th April, 1620 1619
Tim. Comyn, oc. 17th Sept. 1721 1620
[In his mayoralty, a petition was presented for the city sending two burgesses to parliament.]
Nich. Whitfield, oc. 14th Sept. 1622 1621
Wm Hall, oc. 12th Jan. 1622 1622
Hugh Wright, oc. 12th March 1623
1624
John Heighington 1625
John Lambtoune 1626
An entry is made in the corporation books of this year, that a large silver seal was given to the corporation in 1606, by Matthew Pattisonne, the son of a burgess, whereof the following is a
fac simile:
S COMVNE CIVITAT DVNELMIE
Wm Philipson,
esq
oc. 12th Sept. 1628 1627
John Pattison, 4th Oct. 1628
Rich. Whitfield, oc. 27th Oct. and 18th Dec. 1628
John Heighington 1629
Nich. Whitfield (died soon after) 1630
Wm Hall suc. Whitfield, & oc. 11th Sept. 1632 1631
Hugh Wright 1632
Hugh Walton 1633
Hugh Walton again. His acct. 19th Jan. 1635 1634
Ra. Allison, oc. 19th Jan. 1635 1635
John Heighington, 4th Oct. 1636
John Heighington again 1637
Tho. Cook, 4th Oct. 1638. Tho. Mann, 28 Jan. 1638
Hugh Walton, 4th Oct. 1639
Hugh Walton again 1640
Chr. Cookson, Oct. 1641
Ra. Allison 1642
1643
John Hall 1644
1645
John Hall 1646
1647
John Airson, mercer, 4th Oct. 1648
John Airson again 1649
John Hall, draper 1650
John Hall again 1651
John Walton, mercer 1652
Anth. Dale, 24th April 1654 1653
John Airson, mercer 1654
Anth. Bayles,
esq
1655
John Hall, draper, oc. 10th Oct. 1656
Hen. Rowell, mercer, oc. Dec.
Anth. Smith 1657
Rich. Lee 1658
— Rowell 1659
Anth. Dale, 4th Oct. 1660
1661
Stephen Thompson 1662
Matt. Bailes, oc. 18th Feb. 1663
1664
John Stokeld 1665
Tho. Mascall, oc. 18th Dec. 1666
Hen. Wanles, dyer, oc. 3d Feb. 1667
1668
1669
1670
Geo. Hodgson 1671
1672
Stephen Thompson, oc. 28th Apr. 1674 1673
[This year an act passed for the city to send burgesses to parliament.]
John Hall, oc. 18th Nov. 1674 1674
1675
John Morland,
esq
oc. 25th Sept. 1677 1676
Tho. Stokeld,
esq
oc. 13th & 28th Sept. 1678 1677
Wm Blakiston,
esq
oc. 19th Oct. 1678 1678
Cuth. Hutchinson, 17th Sept. 1679
John Duck,
esq
oc. 1st Nov. 1680
John Hutchinson, oc. 26th Oct. 1681
1682
John Hutchinson, oc. 24th Apr. 1684 1683
Marmaduke Allison, 15th Sept. 1685 1684
Again 21st Apr. 1686 1685
Robt Delaval,
esq
23d Nov. 1686
1687
Robt Delaval 1688
1689
Geo. Morland, mercer, 29th July 1690
Wm Greveson, 4th Oct. 1691
Wheatley Dobson, grocer 1692
Wheatley Dobson again 1693
Wm Hodgson 1694
John Gordon 1695
Wheatley Dobson 1696
Wheatley Dobson re-elected 1697
Cuth. Hutchinson,
esq
1698
Edw. Fairless 1699
Anth. Hall 1700
Geo. Tweddle 1701
Cuth. Hutchinson 1702
Edw. Fairless 1703
Ra. Paxton 1704
Anth. Hall 1705
Ra. Paxton 1706
John Gray 1707
Rich. Mascall 1708
Ra. Bainbridge 1709
Anth. Hall 1710
Fran. Cornsorth 1711
Mich. Brabin 1712
Rich. Mascall 1713
John Hutchinson 1714
Mich. Brabin 1714
John Gray 1715
Fran. Cornsorth 1716
Ra. Bainbridge 1717
Mich. Brabin 1718
Robt Smith 1719
Giles Rain 1720
Hen. Forster 1721
John Gray 1722
Fran. Cornsorth 1723
Ra. Bainbridge 1724
Mich. Brabin 1725
Robt Smith 1726
Giles Rain 1727
Hen. Forster 1728
Robt Wharton 1729
Geo. Dale 1730
John Lamb 1731
Geo. Bowes 1732
Robt Smith 1733
Hen. Forster 1734
John Gray 1735
Robt Wharton 1736
Geo. Dale 1737
Geo. Bowes 1738
John Aisley 1739
Cuth. Bainbridge 1740
Tho. Dunn 1741
Wm Forster 1742
Tho. Bainbridge 1743
Hilton Shaw 1744
Tho. Hornsby 1745
Cuth. Bainbridge 1746
Tho. Dunn 1747
Wm Forster 1748
Tho. Bainbridge 1749
Tho. Hornsby 1750
Jos. Gray 1751
Sir Robt Eden, bart. 1752
Geo. Bowes,
esq
1753
John Richardson 1754
Earl of Darlington 1755
John Lamb 1756
Lord Barnard 1757
Cuth. Smith 1758
Cuth. Bainbridge 1759
Rich. Wharton 1760
John Drake Bainbridge 1761
Tho. Hornsby 1762
Jos. Gray 1763
John Hopper 1764
Ra. Bowser 1765
John Lamb 1766
John Drake Bainbridge 1767
Tho. Hornsby 1768
John Lamb 1769
John Drake Bainbridge 1770
[1780, 2d Oct. the new charter granted by bishop Egerton.]
John Drake Bainbridge 1780
Ra. Bowser 1781
Rich. Shuttleworth 1782
Wm Kirton 1783
Tho. Dunn 1784
Wm Kirton 1785
John Starforth 1786
MEMBERS of PARLIAMENT for the City were called at the same time with those for the County of Durham,
viz.
Oliver Cromwell, usurper.
3d Sept. 1654.—Anth. Smith, mercer. Buried in St Nicholas' church 13th Mar. 1682.—P. Reg.
17th Sept. 1656 —Anth. Smith. He with Capt. Tho. Lilburn, knt. for the county, and some others, (members) were
kinglings,
or voted that the crown and title of king should be offered to Oliv. Cromwell.
Richard Cromwell, usurper.
27th Jan. 1658.—No burgesses for the city of Durham were summoned to this parliament.
Charles II.
1675. 27th parl. at Westm.—Ra. Cole, of Brancepeth-castle, bart. and John Parkhurst, of Catesby, in Northamptonshire,
esq
Elected March 27, 1675.
Candidates.
No polled.
Ra. Cole, of Brancepeth-castle, bart.
408
John Parkhurst, of Catesby,
esq
379
Wm Tempest, of Old Durham,
esq
391
John Turner, serjeant at law
187
Wm Christian,
esq
171
N. B. Upon a scrutiny it was found that twelve of Mr Tempest's votes were not freemen, and that three of his voters had polled twice over.
The single number of freemen that voted at the above election was 838, viz.
Mercers and grocers 53
Drapers, taylors 94
Skinners, glovers 89
Tanners 40
Weavers 72
Dyers, sullers 33
Cordwainers 100
Sadlers 25
Butchers 67
Smiths 43
Carpenters, joiners, & coopers 78
Masons 62
Goldsmiths 22
Curriers, chandlers 21
Barbers, robers 25
Cutlers 4
Feltmakers 10
Plumbers, glaziers
Potters, painters, and braziers
In all 838
1678.—Wm Tempest, of Old Durham,
esq
and Ra. Cole, of Brancepeth-castle, bart. Elected 20th Feb. 1678.
Candidates.
No polled.
Wm Tempest,
esq
571
Ra. Cole, bart.
515
Wm Blakiston,
esq
mayor of Durham
436
1679.—Wm Blakiston,
esq
mayor of Durham, and Rich. Lloyd. Elected 10th Sept. 1679.
Candidates.
No polled.
Wm Blakiston,
esq
514
Rich. Lloyd
506
Wm Tempest, of Old Durham,
esq
504
1680.—Rich. Lloyd, and Wm Tempest, of Old Durham,
esq
Elected 10th Feb. 1680, sans poll.
James II.
1685. 1st parl. at Westm.—Rich. Lloyd, and Cha. Montague. Elected 12th March, 1684, sans poll.
1688.—Geo. Morland, and Hen. Liddell. Elected 18th Dec. 1688.
Candidates.
No polled.
Geo. Morland
599
Hen. Liddell
407
Wm Tempest, of Old Durham,
esq
278
1688.—Wm Tempest, of Old Durham,
esq
and Geo. Morland. Elected 3d Mar. 1688, sans poll.
William III.
1695. 7th parl. at Westm.—Cha. Montague, and Hen. Liddell. Elected 30th Oct. 1695, sans poll.
1698, 24th Aug. 10th parl. at Westm.—Cha. Montague, and Tho. Conyers. Elected 28th July, 1698.
Candidates.
No polled.
Cha. Montague
637
Tho. Conyers
424
Hen. Liddell
408
1700, 10th Feb. 12th parl. at Westm.—Cha. Montague, and Tho. Conyers.
1701, 30th Dec. 13th parl. at Westm.—Cha. Montague, and Hen. Bellasis, of Brancepeth-castle, knt.
Queen Anne.
1702, 20th Aug. 1st parl. at Westm.— Hen. Bellasis, of Brancepeth-castle, knt. and Tho. Conyers.
1705, 14th Jan. 4th parl. at Westm.— Hen. Bellasis, of Brancepeth-castle, knt. and Tho. Conyers.
1708, 18th Nov. 7th parl. at Westm.—Thomas Conyers, and James Nicholson. Both voted for the impeachment of Dr Hen. Sacheverel.
1710, 25th Nov. 9th parl. at Westm.—Tho. Conyers, and Hen. Bellasis.—The number of votes exceeded 1000.
Candidates. Thomas Conyers,—Henry Bellasis,— James Nicholson.
Bellasis was appointed a commissioner in Spain, and a new writ was ordered 15th Feb. 1712.
Robt Shafto, of Whitworth,
esq
elected.
Candidates. Robt Shafto,—Anth. Hall, alderman of Durham.
1713, 12th Nov. 12th parl. at Westm.—Tho. Conyers, and Geo. Baker, of Crook,
esq
George I.
1714, 17th Mar. 1st parl. at Westm.—Tho. Conyers, and Geo. Baker, of Crook,
esq
Mr Baker died at Bristol 1st June, and was buried in Lanchester church 12th June, 1723.
1722, 10th May, 7th parl. at Westm.—Tho. Conyers, and Cha. Talbot. Elected 27th Mar. 1722.
Candidates.
No polled.
Cha. Talbot
860
Tho. Conyers
654
James Montague
563
Mr Talbot, the son of Wm Talbot bishop of Durham, 23d Apr. was made the king's solicitor-general, and a new writ ordered 23d Apr. 1726. He was re-chosen 2d May, 1726, sans poll.
George II.
1727.—Cha. Talbot, and Robt Shafto, of Whitworth,
esq
Mr Shafto dying in 1729, a new writ was ordered 15th Jan. 1729.
John Shafto, of Whitworth,
esq
was elected 29th Jan. 1729.
Candidates.
No polled.
John Shafto,
esq
577
Hen Lambton, of Lambton-hall,
esq
553
— Cradock
2
Tho. Hanmer, bart.
1
The election continued four days, viz. 26th, 27th, 28th, and 29th January.
Cha. Talbot,
esq
being appointed lord chancellor 29th Nov. 1733, and 5th Dec. following created baron Talbot of Hensol,— a new writ was ordered.
Hen. Lambton, of Lambton-hall,
esq
was elected 29th April, 1734.
1741, 14th parl. at Westm —John Shafto, of Whitworth,
esq
and Hen. Lambton, of Lambton-hall,
esq
Elected 8th May, 1741, sans poll.
Mr Shafto dying at London 3d April, 1742, John Tempest, of Winyard,
esq
was elected 23d April, 1712.
1747, 21st parliam. at Westm.—Hen. Lambton, of Lambton-hall,
esq
and John Tempest, of Winyard,
esq
Elected 30th June, 1747.
Candidates.
No polled.
Hen. Lambton,
esq
737
John Tempest,
esq
581
Robt Wharton,
esq
ald. of Durham
538
The election continued two days, viz. 29th and 30th of Jan. 1747.
17
, 27th parliam. at Westm.—Hen. Lambton, of Lambton-hall,
esq
and John Tempest, of Winyard,
esq
Elected 15th April, 1754, sans poll.
George III.
1761, 1 parl. at Westm.—John Tempest, of Win
ard,
esq
and Hen. Lambton, of Lambton-hall,
esq
Elected 6th April, 1761.
Candidates.
No polled.
John Tempest,
esq
705
Hen. Lambton,
esq
546
Ra. Gowland, of Durham,
esq
526
Number of voters 1050. Increase of freemen since 1675, 212 in 86 years.
The election lasted three days, viz. 30th and 31st Mar. and 1st Apr. 1761.—A scrutiny was demanded by Mr Gowland, and granted by Mr Rich Wharton, mayor; but on Monday (6th Apr.) Mr Gowland declined the scrutiny.
Mr Lambton died suddenly in his chariot 26th June, 1761.
Ralph Gowland, of Durham,
esq
was elected 12th Dec. 1761.
Candidates.
No polled.
Ra. Gowland,
esq
775
Major Gen. John Lambton, of Harraton,
esq
752
The election continued six days, viz. 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th Dec. 1761.
The mayor of Durham, with the majority of the aldermen, having displaced sixteen common-councilmen, and named others of inferior fortunes, the corporation repealed the bye-laws made in 1728 (p. 33) and made a new one, under the sanction whereof the mayor, &c. at several times swore 215 occasional freemen, who were fetched out of Yorkshire, Westmorland, Cumberland, Northumberland, and the county of Durham, in order to serve Mr Gowland, then major of the Durham militia. At the close of the poll, the numbers stood, for Mr Gowland (with the 215) 775; for Mr Lambton 752—Mr Gowland's majority 23, his legal voters 560. On Mr Lambton's petition, Mr Gowland was ousted of his seat, and in 1775 was elected for Cockermouth (see p. 36.) The number of legal freemen who then voted was 1312.
1768, 8th parl. at West.—Major Gen. John Lambton, of Harraton,
esq
and John Tempest the younger, of Winyard,
esq
Elected 21st Mar. 1768, sans poll.
1771.—Major Gen John Lambton, and John Tempest the younger. Elected 14th Oct. 1774.
Candidates.
No polled.
John Tempest,
esq
369
Gen. Lambton
325
Mark Milbanke,
esq
248
The election continued four days, viz. 11th, 12th, 13th, and 14th Oct 1774.
1780.—Major Gen. John Lambton,
esq
and John Tempest,
esq
Elected.
1784.—The same gentlemen elected again.
to be the
first
and modern
mayor
of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, willing, that the said John Drake Bainbridge may and shall be, and shall continue in the office of mayor of the said city from the date of these presents, until Monday next after the feast of St Michael the archangel now next ensuing, and from thence until one other of the aldermen of the said city shall be in due manner elected and sworn into that office, if the said John Drake Bainbridge shall so long live.
We have also appointed, named, elected, constituted and made, and by these presents for us and our successors, do appoint, name, create, constitute and make the said
John Drake Bainbridge,
and our trusty and well-beloved
Thomas Bainbridge, Ralph Bowser, Joseph Airey, Richard Shuttleworth, John Hall, John Lowther, William Kirton, John Starforth, Thomas Dunn, Christopher Hopper, John Potts,
and
William Archer,
to be the
first
and modern
aldermen
of the city of Durham and Framwelgate, to continue in the same office during their natural lives, unless in the mean time they or any or either of them for misgovernment or misbehaviour therein, or for any other reasonable cause, shall be amoved from their said offices.
WE ALSO will, ordain and constitute, and for us and our successors by these presents grant to the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, and their successors, as far as in us lieth, that the mayor and aldermen of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, or the major part of them (of whom the mayor for the time being shall be one) shall and may, as soon as conveniently may be after the date of these presents, meet and assemble together in the Guildhall or Tollbooth of the said city, or in any other convenient place within the said city; and being so assembled, shall and do then nominate and elect twenty-four other persons of the most discreet and honest men residing and inhabiting within the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, that is to say, two of each of the separate arts, mysteries, and faculties following, to wit, two out of the
mercers, grocers, haberdashers, ironmongers,
and
salters
—two out of the
drapers
and
taylors
—two out of the
skinners
and
glovers
—two out of the
tanners
—two out of the
weavers
—two out of the
fullers
and
dyers
—two out of the
cordwainers
—two out of the
sadlers
—two out of the
butchers
—two out of the
smiths
—two out of the
carpenters
and
joiners
— and two out of the
free masons
and
rough masons,
residing and inhabiting within the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, or within the several parishes of St Nicholas, St Mary-le-bow, and St Mary the Less, or the extra parochial places of or belonging to the castle of Durham, and the college or cathedral church of Durham, or the parochial chapelry of St Margaret, the borough of Framwelgate, or the several parishes of St Oswald and St Giles
This extension is an exercise of the
ra regalia.
—
See 1 Strange's Reports, 1
7.
, near the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, in the said county palatine of Durham; which said mayor, aldermen, and twenty-four discreet and honest men of the trades, arts or mysteries aforesaid, shall be the
common council
of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate; and the said twenty-four so named and elected shall continue in the same offices until the
second Monday next after the feast of St Michael the archangel
then next ensuing, if they shall so long live, unless they or any of them in the mean time, for misgovernment or misbehaviour therein, or other reasonable causes, shall be removed from their said offices.
AND we further will, and do by these presents for us and our successors grant, to the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, and their successors, that the mayor, aldermen and twenty-four other persons to be elected in the manner herein mentioned, to be of the common council of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate for the time being, or the major part of them, (of whom the mayor for the time being we will shall be one) from time to time and at all times hereafter, yearly and every year, on the
Monday
next after the feast of St Michael the archangel, shall and may meet and assemble in the Guildhall or Tollbooth of the said city, or in any other convenient place within the said city; and being so assembled, shall and may nominate and elect one of the aldermen of the city of Durham and Framwelgate aforesaid, residing and inhabiting within the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, or within the said several parishes of St Nicholas, St Mary-le-Bow, and St Mary the Less, or the extra parochial places of or belonging to the castle of Durham, and the college or cathedral church of Durham, or the parochial chapelry of St Margaret, the borough of Framwelgate, or the several parishes of St Oswald and St Giles near the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, in the said county palatine of Durham, to be
mayor
of the said city of Durham and Fram. for one whole year then next following, that is to say, until Monday next after the feast-day of St Michael the archangel then next ensuing; and that he in manner aforesaid elected and named to be mayor of the said city, before he be admitted to the execution of that office, shall take his corporal oath before us or our successors bishops of Durham for the time being, but if we or our successors shall be absent from the said county palatine, then before the chancellor of the said county palatine for the time being, and in case of his absence from the said county palatine, or in case the episcopal See of Durham shall be vacant, then before his last predecessor in the office of mayor of the said city, for the due execution of his office, according to the tenor following, that is to say,
I shall truth and faith bear to our sovereign lord the king's majesty, his heirs and successors kings and queens of England, and to the lord bishop of Durham and his successors bishops of Durham, and all such acts and orders as I shall consent and agree unto to be made, shall be for the common-wealth of the city of Durham and Framwelgate; and shall at no time or times hereafter go about to make any private orders against the privileges of the bishop of Durham, nor for the only profit of myself, nor of any other private person or persons; or consent or agree unto the same: And also, I shall at all and every time and times hereafter, go about by word, will and consent, well and truly to execute every point, article and agreement contained in this corporation, to the mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate granted, to my power, and I shall keep my lords council, my fellows and my own, so help me God, and by the contents of this book.
And after he shall have so taken the said oath, he shall hold the said office of mayor of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, until Monday next after the feast of St Michael the archangel then next following, and from thence until another of the aldermen of the said city shall in due manner and form aforesaid be elected and sworn into the office of mayor of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, unless he shall in the mean time be removed from that office for misgovernment or misbehaviour therein, or of or for any other reasonable cause.
And further we will, and do by these presents for us and our successors grant to the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate and their successors, that if it shall happen that the said John Drake Bainbridge
or any future mayor
of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate,
shall die
or be removed from the office of mayor of the said city, at any time before Monday next after the feast of St Michael the archangel, next after he shall be elected and sworn into the office of mayor of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, (and which said John Drake Bainbridge and every future mayor of the said city, we will shall be removeable from his said office for misgovernment or misbehaviour therein, or any other reasonable cause, by the aldermen and twenty-four so elected of the common council of the said city, or the major part of them, of whom we will that seven of the aldermen of the said city shall be seven) that then and so often it shall and may be lawful for the aldermen and twenty-four elected of the common council of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate for the time being, or the major part of them, (of whom we will that three of the aldermen of the said city be three) within twenty days after such death or removal, to assemble in the Guildhall or Tollbooth of the said city, or in any other convenient place within the said city, and that they, or the major part of them then and there assembled, shall nominate and elect one other of the aldermen of the said city (residing and inhabiting within the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, or within the several parishes of St Nicholas, St Mary-le-bow, and St Mary the Less, or the extra parochial places of or belonging to the castle of Durham and the college and cathedral church of Durham, the parochial chapelry of St Margaret, the borough of Framwelgate, or the several parishes of St Oswald and St Giles, near the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, for the time being) to be mayor of the said city, for the remainder of the year; and that the person so elected to the office of mayor of the said city, before he be admitted to execute the said office, shall take his corporal oath to the purport or effect herein before mentioned, before us and our successors bishops of Durham; or in case of our absence, before the chancellor of the said county, or in case of his absence, or the vacancy of the said See, then before two of the aldermen of the said city; and having taken the said oath, he shall hold the said office until Monday next after the feast of St Michael the archangel then next following, and from thence until another alderman of the said city shall be elected and sworn into the said office, if he shall so long live; unless in the mean time he shall be removed from his office, for misgovernment or misbehaviour therein, or other reasonable cause.
And we further will, and by these presents for us and our successors grant, to the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city of Durham and Framwelgate and their successors, that the mayor and aldermen of the said city for the time being, or the major part of them, (of whom the mayor for the time being we will shall be one) shall and may from time to time, and at all times hereafter, yearly and every year, on the second Monday next after the feast of St Michael the archangel, (that is to say) on the Monday next after the day by these presents appointed for the election of a mayor of the said city, to nominate and elect
twenty-four
of the most discreet and honest men, inhabiting and residing within the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, (that is to say) two out of each of the twelve several arts, mysteries or faculties following, (to wit) two out of the mercers, grocers, haberdashers, ironmongers and salters; two out of the drapers and taylors, two out of the skinners and glovers, two out of the tanners, two out of the weavers, two out of the dyers and fullers, two out of the cordwainers, two out of the sadlers, two out of the butchers, two out of the smiths, two out of the carpenters and joiners, and two out of the free-masons and rough-masons, residing and inhabiting within the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, or within the several parishes of St Nicholas, St Mary-le-Bow and St Mary the Less, or the extra parochial places of or belonging to the castle of Durham, and the college or cathedral church of Durham, or the parochial chapelry of St Margaret, the borough of Framwelgate, or the said several parishes of St Oswald and St Giles, near the city of Durham and Framwelgate, for one whole year, (that is to say) until the second Monday after the feast of St Michael the archangel then next following; and that every person elected and named to be of the
common council
of the said city, before he be admitted to the execution of that office, shall take his corporal oath upon the holy evangelists, before the mayor, or in his absence before four of the aldermen of the said city for the time being, well and faithfully to execute their office in all things relating thereto; and that after having taken such oath, he shall and may execute the said office for one year, (that is to say) until the second Monday after the said feast of St Michael the archangel then next following, unless he shall in the mean time be removed from his said office, for misgovernment or misbehaviour, or other reasonable cause.
Provided always, and our will is, that in case there shall not be a sufficient number of arts, mysteries, or faculties aforesaid, residing and inhabiting as aforesaid, out of which two can be elected according to the directions aforesaid, that then and so often as the case shall happen, the said mayor and aldermen, or the major part of them, shall and may nominate and elect so many out of the other arts, mysteries, or faculties, or any of them, residing and inhabiting as aforesaid, as will make up the number 24; and may supply the same, in case of the death or removal of any of the twenty-four, in the same manner; which said mayor, aldermen and twenty-four, elected to be of the common council of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, shall in all time to come be the common council of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate.
And whenever it shall happen, that any of the
aldermen
of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate for the time being,
shall die
or be removed from his or their office or offices, for misgovernment or misbehaviour therein, or any other reasonable cause, by the mayor, aldermen and twenty-four so elected of the common council as aforesaid, or the major part of them, (of whom we will the mayor shall be one) that then and so often, it shall and may be lawful for the mayor and rest of the aldermen and twenty-four so elected of the common council of the said city for the time being, or the major part of them, (of whom the mayor for the time being shall be one) within
twenty days
next after such death or amotion, to nominate or elect one or more burgess or burgesses of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, dwelling and inhabiting within the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, or within the several parishes of St Nicholas, St Mary-le-Bow and St Mary the Less, or the extra-parochial places of or belonging to the castle of Durham, and the college or cathedral church of Durham, or the parochial chapelry of St Margaret, the borough of Framwelgate, or the several parishes of St Oswald and St Giles, near the city of Durham and Framwelgate, to be an alderman or aldermen of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, in the place or places of him or them so dying or happening to be removed; and that he or they so nominated and elected to be alderman or aldermen, before he or they shall be admitted to execute the said office or offices, shall take his or their corporal oath or oaths, before the mayor of the said city for the time being, or before four or more of the aldermen of the said city for the time being, well and truly to execute his or their office or offices, in all things thereunto belonging; and the person or persons so elected and sworn, shall hold the said office and offices during the term of his and their natural life and lives, unless he or they shall in the mean time be removed from the said office or offices, for misgovernment or misbehaviour therein, or for any other reasonable cause.
And also whenever it shall happen, that any of the twenty-four, to be elected of the
common council
of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate as aforesaid for the time being,
shall die
or be removed from his or their office or offices, (and which said twenty-four we will shall be removeable from their said offices for misgovernment or misbehaviour therein, or other reasonable cause, by the mayor, aldermen and twenty-four, or the major part of them, of whom we will that the mayor for the time being shall be one) that then and so often, it shall and may be lawful for the mayor and aldermen of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate for the time being, or the major part of them, (of whom the mayor we will shall be one) within
twenty days
after such death or removal, to elect and prefer one or more of the burgesses of the said city, of the same trade, art or mystery, or trades, arts or mysteries of him or them so dying or being removed, and residing or dwelling within the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, or within the said several parishes of St Nicholas, St Mary-le-Bow and St Mary the Less, or the extra-parochial places of or belonging to the castle of Durham, and the college or cathedral church of Durham, or the parochial chapelry of St Margaret, the borough of Framwelgate, or the said several parishes of St Oswald and St Giles, near the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, to be of the common council of the said city, in the place or places of him or them so dying or happening to be removed; and that he or they so elected into the said office or offices, shall take his and their corporal oath and oaths, before the mayor of the said city for the time being, or before four or more of the aldermen of the said city for the time being, well and truly to execute his and their office or offices in all things thereunto belonging; and the person or persons so elected and sworn into the said office and offices shall hold the same until the said second Monday next after the feast of St Michael the archangel then next ensuing, if he and they shall so long live; unless he or they shall in the mean time be removed from the said office or offices, for mismanagement or misbehaviour therein, or for any other reasonable cause.
And moreover, for us and our successors, we grant to the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, and their successors,
that if any one or more of the aldermen and burgesses
of the said city for the time being, who hereafter
shall be elected
to the office or offices of
mayor, aldermen, or of the common council
of the said city, and having due notice given to him or them of such election,
shall refuse to accept or take upon himself or themselves, and to execute that office,
to which he or they shall have been so elected and nominated, then and so often, it shall and may be lawful for the mayor, aldermen and twenty-four, so elected as aforesaid, for the time being, or the major part of them present at any meeting for that purpose (of whom the mayor to be one)
to assess and impose such fines and amerciaments, not exceeding the sum of one hundred pounds,
upon such person or persons so refusing, as to the said mayor, aldermen and common council for the time being, or such major part of them as aforesaid, shall seem reasonable; which sine or sines shall be recovered, received and applied to the public use of the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate.
And further, we will and do by these presents for us and our successors grant, to the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city, and their successors, that there shall for ever hereafter be, in the city of Durham and Framwelgate, one honest and discreet man, skilled in the laws of England, who shall and may be, and shall be called
the recorder of the city of Durham and Framwelgate;
which said recorder, before he shall be admitted to execute that office, shall take his corporal oath, before the mayor of the said city for the time being, well and faithfully to execute the said office of recorder of the city aforesaid, according to the best of his judgment, in all things touching or concerning that office: And that after such oath so taken, he may exercise and use the office of recorder of and for the said city, for so long time as he shall behave himself well in the said office. And we have assigned, created, constituted and made, and by these presents for us and our successors do assign, nominate, create, constitute and make, our trusty and well-beloved
William Ambler, esquire,
skilled in the laws of England, to be the first and modern recorder of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, to execute that office so long as he shall behave himself well in the same; the said William Ambler first taking his corporal oath before the said John Drake Bainbridge, or the mayor of the said city for the time being, well and truly to execute the office of recorder of the city aforesaid, according to the best of his judgment, in all things touching and concerning that office. And we will, that the recorder of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, from time to time, be aiding and assisting to the common council of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, for the time being, in all things and causes, which in the court of record in the said city, or any other court to be held in the said city, from time to time, shall be cognizable and determinable in the said city; and that he may do and execute all things which to the office of recorder belong and appertain, in as ample manner and form as any other recorder in any other city or town incorporate within the kingdom of Great-Britain, by virtue of his office of recorder, may or can do: And that from time to time and at all times, upon every vacancy of the office of recorder of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, it shall and may be lawful for the mayor, aldermen, and twenty-four so elected as aforesaid, for the time being, or the major part of them, present at any meeting for that purpose, (of whom we will the mayor shall be one) to elect, nominate and prefer one other discreet man, skilled in the laws of England, from time to time, to be recorder of the said city; and that he so elected and preferred into the office of recorder of the said city, from time to time, after the death or amoval of the said William Ambler, shall and may have, enjoy and exercise the office of recorder, as long as he shall behave himself well in the same; first taking his corporal oath in manner aforesaid
Recorders of Durham.
1603, Sept. 11.—Win Smith, of Gray's Inn, London, gent.
1642, Nov. 10.—Fra. Tempest, of Durham,
esq
1645, April 11.— Edw. Wright, of Gray's Inn,
esq
1647, Aug. 11.— John Turner of the Middle Temple and Kirkleatham,
esq
1686, —John Jefferson, serjeant at law; appointed a judge in Ireland.
1691, Sept. 25.—Wm Davison, of Durham,
esq
1696, June 3.— John Middleton,
esq
1702, March 4.—John Cuthbert, of Durham,
esq
resigned on being chosen recorder of Newcastle.
1706, Feb. 5. — Geo. Bowes,
esq
of Durham
1719, Oct. 1. — John Faweett,
esq
of Durham.
1760, Oct 27.—Wm Rudd,
esq
of Durham
1767, Nov. 9.—Tho. Gyll,
esq
of Durham; ob. 12th March, 1780.
1780, Oct. 2.— Wm Ambler,
esq
of Durham; appointed by the new charter.
.
And further we do will, and by these presents for us and our successors grant, to the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city, and their successors, that they and their successors hereafter for ever, may and shall have in the said city one honest and discreet man, who may and shall be called the
town-clerk of the said city,
which said town-clerk, before he be admitted to execute that office, shall take his corporal oath, before the mayor of the said city for the time being, well and truly to perform that office, to the best of his knowledge, in all things touching or concerning the said office; and that after taking such oath, he shall use and exercise the office of town-clerk of the city aforesaid, so long as he shall behave himself well in the said office; and we have assigned, created, constituted and made, and do by these presents, for us and our successors, assign, nominate, create, constitute and make,
Martin Wilkinson
to be the first and modern town-clerk of the said city, to exercise that office, as long as he shall behave himself well, first taking his corporal oath, before the said John Drake Bainbridge, or the mayor of the said city for the time being, truly to perform that office, to the best of his knowledge, in all things touching or concerning the said office: And that from time to time and at all times, whenever hereafter the said office shall be vacant, it shall and may be lawful for the said mayor, aldermen, and twenty-four of the common council of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, for the time being, or the major part of them, of whom the mayor of the said city for the time being we will shall be one, to elect, nominate and prefer, one other honest and discreet man to be town-clerk of the said city, to exercise that office as long as he shall behave himself well in the same, who shall take his oath before the mayor of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate for the time being, for the due execution of the said office
TOWN CLERKS of DURHAM.
1610, Oct. 4.—Mark Forster, gent.
1663, Nov. 27.—George Kirkby.
1690, Sept. 4.—George Dixon appointed for life, but on the 27th of Sept. 1711 was removed, and Richard Lee appointed; but Dixon was restored, in pursuance of a
Mandamus,
4th March 1712.
1716, Oct. 5.—John Ingleby appointed for the year ensuing, and from thence annually.
1761, Nov. 2.— Robert Robinson.
1766, Oct. 5.—Cuthbert Swainston.
1768, Oct. 5.—Martin Wilkinson, also appointed by the new charter 2d Oct. 1780.
.
And moreover we will, and by these presents for us and our successors do grant, to the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, and their successors, that the mayor, aldermen and twenty-four, the common council of the said city, or the major part of them, (of whom the mayor for the time being shall be one) shall and may, within a convenient time from the date of these presents, name and elect two men, being burgesses or inhabitants of the said city, who shall be, and shall be called,
serjeants at mace,
to serve in the court of the said city, and for making proclamations, arrests, and executions of all processes, mandates, and other affairs belonging to the office of serjeant at mace, to be done and executed from time to time in the city of Durham and Framwelgate aforesaid; and in like manner name and elect all such and so many
constables,
and other inferior officers and servants, as have been usual and accustomed within the city aforesaid; and the said serjeants at mace, and other inferior officer and officers, so to be elected and nominated, shall and may be in due manner sworn, before the mayor of the said city for the time being, for the due and faithful execution of the office and offices, to which they shall be respectively elected and appointed; and the said serjeants at mace, and other the officer and officers so to be elected, shall be and continue in their respective offices, until Monday next after the feast of St Michael the archangel now next ensuing, and until some other person or persons shall in due manner be elected and preferred into his or their office or offices respectively; and that the said serjeants at mace, constables, and other inferior officer and officers of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, shall from time to time be annually elective, by the mayor, aldermen and twenty-four, the common council aforesaid, or the major part of them, (of whom the mayor we will shall be one) on Monday next after the said feast of St Michael the archangel then next following, if they shall respectively behave themselves well in the same: And as often as, and whenever it shall happen, that such serjeants, constables, and other inferior officers of the said city, shall die or be removed from their offices, within one year after they have been elected, preferred, and sworn into their said office or offices respectively, that then and so often, it shall and may be lawful for the mayor, aldermen and twenty-four, the common council of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate for the time being, or the major part of them, (of whom we will the mayor of the said city for the time being shall be one) within
twenty days
next ensuing such death or amotion, or any other convenient time, to elect and prefer other and others in the place or places of him and them so dying or being amoved; and that he or they so elected and preferred, shall hold and exercise the office or offices to which they shall be elected, named and preferred, if they shall respectively behave themselves well in the same, until Monday next after the feast of St Michael then next ensuing, and from thenceforth until another or others shall be elected and sworn into the said office or offices respectively, first taking his or their corporal oath or oaths in form aforesaid.
We also will and ordain, and by these presents for us and our successors do grant and confirm, to the aforesaid mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city of Durham and Framwelgate aforesaid, and their successors, as much as in us lies, that the aforesaid mayor, aldermen and twenty-four, so elected of the common council of the city of Durham and Framwelgate aforesaid, for the time being, or the major part of them, (of whom the mayor for the time being shall be one) shall have full authority, power and licence, in the place of, for and in the name of the whole corporate body of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate aforesaid,
to compose, constitute, ordain, make and establish,
from time to time,
such laws, statutes, ordinances and constitutions,
as to them in their discretions shall seem good, salutary, useful, fit, profitable, and necessary, for the good rule and government of the mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, and all trades, officers, ministers, artificers, and residents whomsoever, within the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, for the time being; and for the rule and government of the markets, fairs, and marts, within the city of Durham and Framwelgate aforesaid, and the limits and liberties of the same, and of other persons coming and resorting to the said fairs and markets; and for declaring after what manner and order the mayor, aldermen and commonalty, and all and singular other the ministers, officers and artificers, inhabitants and residents within the city of Durham and Framwelgate aforesaid, with their servants and apprentices, in their several offices, functions, mysteries, arts and businesses, within the city of Durham and Framwelgate aforesaid, and the liberties of the same, for the time being, shall conduct and employ themselves, and otherwise, for the more public good and good rule of the city of Durham and Framwelgate aforesaid; and also for the better preservation, government, and letting of the lands, tenements, reversions and hereditaments of the aforesaid mayor, aldermen and commonalty, and their successors, to them given, granted or assigned, or hereafter to be given, granted or assigned, and all other things and causes whatsoever, relating to the city of Durham and Framwelgate aforesaid, or concerning the state, right and interest of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate; and that the mayor, aldermen and twenty-four, so elected of the common council of the city of Durham and Framwelgate aforesaid, for the time being, or the major part of them, (of whom the mayor for the time being shall be one) as often as such laws, institutions, ordinances and constitutions shall be declared and established in manner aforesaid, do make, ordain, limit and provide such punishments, penalties and imprisonments of the body, or by fines and amerciaments, or by both, upon all offenders against such laws, statutes and ordinances, or any of them, which to the said mayor, aldermen and common council for the time being, or the major part of them, (of whom the mayor for the time being shall be one) shall seem necessary, requisite and proper for the observance of such laws, ordinances and constitutions; and the same fines and amerciaments, by distress or any other manner, to levy and have and retain, to them and their successors, to the use of the said city of Durham and Framwelgate, without question or impediment of us or our successors, or any of the officers of us or our successors; all and singular which laws, ordinances, constitutions and institutions, so to be made, we will shall be observed under the penalties therein mentioned, so as such laws, ordinances and institutions, punishments, penalties and imprisonments, are not repugnant or contrary to the laws, statutes, rights and customs of England.
We will moreover, and by these presents, for us and our successors, as far as in us lieth, do grant, ratify and confirm, unto the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city of Durham and Framwelgate aforesaid, and their successors, that the said mayor, aldermen, commonalty, and their successors, shall have, hold, enjoy and use, from henceforth for ever, all and singular such rights, liberties, powers, authorities, franchises, immunities, free customs, lands, tenements and hereditaments, as the mayor, aldermen and commonalty of the city of Durham and Framwelgate, under, by virtue or reason of the said letters patent of
Tobias late bishop of Durham,
or by, under, or by virtue of any charter or letters patent by any of our predecessors heretofore bishops of Durham, or otherwise by any lawful means, right or title whatsoever, could or were lawfully entitled to have, use or enjoy; except in such cases, and so far only as the same are varied or altered by these presents.
And further we will, by these presents, for us and our successors, of our special grace, certain knowledge, and mere motion, do grant unto the said mayor, aldermen and commonalty, and their successors, that these our letters patent, and all and singular things in the same contained, shall be and remain, from time to time, good, firm, valid, sufficient and effectual in the law, according to the true meaning of these presents; notwithstanding the not naming, or the not right and certain naming the premisses aforesaid, or any parcel thereof, in their or in either of their proper names, kinds, sorts, quantities or qualities; and notwithstanding the not reciting, or not truly reciting the said letters patent before mentioned, or any thing in the same contained, or any act, ordinance, provision or restriction, or any defect, uncertainty or imperfection in these our letters patent, or any other matter, cause or thing whatsoever, to the contrary thereof in any wise notwithstanding: In witness whereof we have caused these our letters to be made patent. Witness the honourable Edward Willes, our chancellor of Durham. Given at our castle of Durham this
second
day of
October,
in the twentieth year of the reign of our sovereign lord George the Third, by the Grace of God, of Great-Britain, France, and Ireland, king, defender of the faith and so forth; and in the year of our Lord
one thousand seven hundred and eighty,
of our consecration the
twenty-fifth,
and of our translation to the See of Durham the
tenth.
"
CHARITABLE FUNDS.
"There is a charitable fund belonging to the city of Durham, for which the mayor and aldermen are trustees
This account was taken by Mr Randal from the papers of Mr John Dixon, late of Durham, deceased, an eminent attorney at law.
. Mr Henry Smith, the great benefactor of the city of Durham whilst it stood incorporated by the name of aldermen and burgesses, by will dated the 20th of July 1598, gave all his coal-mines, then of the clear yearly value of 100l. besides a personal estate in money, debts, and goods, beyond debts and legacies, worth 600l. unto the city of Durham, in these words:
And as touching my colemynes, and that the increase thereof may be employed for the benefit of many, I freely give them all to this city of Durham, and the cause why I doe soe, and further as followeth is, that some good trade may be devised for setting of the youth and other idle persons to work, as shall be thought most convenient, whereby some profit may arise to the benefit of the said city, and reliefe of those that are past work.
—Then he gives away several legacies, and adds,
All the rest that remaineth I fully give and bequeath to this city of Durham, as fully and amply as I have done my colemynes, and to the uses before expressed.
—And then appoints one alderman
pro tempore,
Edward Wanles, dyer, and William Hall, draper, his executors, to see the said will performed; and died on the 17th of November 1598. Mr Tho. Pierson was alderman at Mr Smith's death, and, together with Wanles and Hall, entered upon his estate, and continued the receipt and management thereof, until Tobias Matthew bishop of Durham, in the year 1602, incorporated the city by the name of mayor and aldermen, and then the succeeding mayors joined with the two executors, in the receipt and management thereof, and so it continued until the eighth year of K. James I. when a commission of pious uses was awarded to William bishop of Durham, and several others, upon which an inquest was taken, and this charity found and decreed against the executors, in whose hands it was, and several persons were appointed to be the governors thereof, particularly the then bishop, Richard Hutton,
esq
his temporal chancellor, H. Dethick, H. Ewbanke, Rob. Cooper, and several others. Those governors (14th Aug. 1612) called the executors to an account, and found in their hands in ready cash 577l. 10s. 2d. which they received and lodged in the chest in the town chamber, which they had bought for the purpose, under four locks, and there also placed the bonds and other securities and writings relating to this charity; and then ordered the New-Place
The palace of the Nevill family.
to be bought, for a trade of cloth-working to be set up in, which was accordingly done, and 150l. paid for the purchase thereof.
In May 1614, Henry Doughty and Wm Bastoe, clothworkers, were employed to begin the work, and were settled in the New-Place; and one Richard Thomlinson had by copy of court-roll an assignment made him of some ground upon Brassside Moor,
de novo incremento,
and inclosed it for the benefit of the works, and 200l. was paid them to provide materials, for which sum Wm Hall the executor, who had recommended these three men, was bound.
In September 1614 a new commission of pious uses issued, to the said bishop, chancellor Hutton, and several other commissioners, who approved of what the governors had done, and ordered 250l. more to be advanced to the clothiers, upon the statute-merchant of them and two other sureties, relations of Doughty and Bastoe, and upon surrender of Tomlinson's Intack; and so the works went forward for about two years, and then Doughty and his partners broke, and the governors took in one William Atkinson, then master of the house of correction, to spin and employ children that way, and gave him 60l. to buy wool: And also in the year 1616 the governor employed Thomas Browne and George Beecrofte, two new clothworkers, and bought them in wool, and gave them it to work, and employed William Hall the executor to be their inspector; and the work went on but slowly and to no great purpose, till Jan. 1619, and then was discontinued; and instead thereof, 20l. per annum was ordered to be paid by 5l. per quarter to the several streets in Durham, and apprentices were ordered to be bound out, ten or more per annum, as the stock should answer.
Thus it hath continued ever since, with the addition only of two half yearly pays more to the poor of the several streets; and in the year 1622, Wydop Leezes and Redmyers House were purchased for 660l. at the yearly rent of 50l. per annum, 3l. 6s. 8d. being discounted for a copyhold rent payable thereout annually to the bishop.
After this the governors put their statute-merchant in suit against Doughty and Bastoe's relations, and recovered most of the 250l. last lent; but all that Hall the executor was bound for, and more which he had got into his hands, amounting to 598l. odd money, was lost.
The mayors of Durham, from the discontinuing of the last clothworking in the year 1619 or 20, again received the money arising of the stock, and yearly accounted for it to the governors till the year 1659, and then a treasurer received it; and so it continued during the troubles, and till after the restoration, to wit, in December 1669, when a commission of pious uses was awarded to bishop Cosin, Dr Sudbury then dean of Durham, and others, and thereupon an inquest was taken, whereby one John Heighington, who had been mayor of Durham, was found debtor for Smith's charity 414l. and for charities given by others almost as much more; but all that was got in satisfaction thereof was only the house and shop in the market-place, in Mrs Fulthorpe and alderman Paxton's possession, valued at 18l. per ann. called Heighington's Burgage.
In the year 1659 the receipt of the mayors of Durham was discontinued, and a treasurer appointed to receive and pay out the stock as the governors ordered. All the collieries are now failed, and have so been for many years past, so that all the stock
Linsell bishop of Hereford and prebendary of Durham gave by will "for the use of the poor people of the city of Durham 100l. to be placed out at interest, or lands to be purchased therewith."
F. Buney by his will dated 20th Jan. 1626, gave to the city of Durham "20l. to be lent to poor men decayed, by five marks a-piece upon good security, to be paid at the year's end."
Mr Walton archdeacon of Derby gave "to the city of Durham 40l. to be lent gratis to poor tradesmen by 5l. a-piece for four years together."
Dr Hartwell, by will dated 9th March 1724, gave to the corporation of the city of Durham "20l. a-year, to be disposed of to two merchants or tradesmen of the established church, 10l. each, that have served out their time in the said city, and want some assistance to set up with; which persons the mayor and six aldermen or more, are unanimously to pitch upon, without favour to any but those that stand in most need of it. And that this benevolence may have its full effect, as designed by me, it shall be in the power of the mayor and all the residing aldermen to bestow the whole 20l. on any one person whom they shall judge in their consciences to deserve it, by the narrowness of his circumstances. Moreover, the said 20l. per ann. is not to be paid but to the person or persons themselves, chosen by the mayor and aldermen of Durham, according to the limitations herein named, who are to certify their choice under their hands to the trustees of this part of my last will and testament."—This charity is chargeable on lands at
Lord Crewe gave 100l. a year, as mentioned in page 560 of the first volume of this work, for putting out poor children apprentices to such trades as the mayor and aldermen should appoint.
consists of
The New-Place, let for about per annum
40
0
0
Wydop Leezes, p. ann.
50
0
0
Dye-Houses, p. ann.
16
0
0
Hager Leezes, p. ann.
3
0
0
Heighington's Burgage, p. ann.
18
0
0
Newby's House, p. ann.
2
0
0
All this was purchased by the governors out of Smith's charity, and yields annually 129l.
As to cash unaltered or newly given for a manufactory,
Old charities in the stock.
There is besides this due upon bonds from persons having donation money given by several
90
0
0
In ready money
100
0
0
New charities to be brought in.
Bishop Wood's charity given to the poor of the city
"I Tho Wood, by divine Providence lord bishop of Litchfield and Coventry, &c. I bequeath unto the city of Durham 20l. yearly for ever, payable out of all my lands and tenements at Egglescliff in the bishopric of Durham, to be disposed of towards the relief and release of poor prisoners for debt that shall be lawfully committed to the common gaol there, each such prisoner's debt not exceeding five pounds And I will that every such prisoner so to be released shall be appointed by the mayor and aldermen of Durham for the time being, and their successors, or the major part of them.—Item, I give to the corporation of Durham 100l. to be laid out by the said corporation, or major part of them, upon a rent charge, towards the maintenance of the poor of that corporation for ever." Dated 11th Nov. 1690. Proved in Doctors-Commons 10th Nov. 1692. —
The above estate is now (1786) the property of Vide Strype's Survey of London, vol. ii. Append. p. 126.
100
0
0
New charities to be brought in.
Mr Cradock's money, interest and principal
220
0
0
New charities to be brought in.
Mr Baker's money
"I George Baker of Crooke in the county of Durham,
esq
&c. And I do hereby desire my dear brothers, that my debts and funeral charges first being discharged, they will dispose of the overplus in such manner as by writing under my hand to that purpose I shall direct, leaving them notwithstanding to their own discretion in such matters wherein they may reasonably think me overseen. Dated the 5th of March 1697.— 5th March 1697 — What I desire of my brothers (Mr Tho. and Mr Fran. Baker) as to the disposal of that part of my estate I leave in trust to them, I desire them to dispose of the sum of 500l. to pious and charitable uses, so as they shall think will be best employed.—July 29, 1699 — I desire that 1000l. may be raised out of my estate, and disposed of by my executors according to their discretion, in pious and charitable uses, and that these two paragraphs with all before be taken as part of my last will. Witness my hand."—He died in Aug. 1699, and was buried in Lanchester church.
The sum of 500l. is lent by the corporation to the master of the woollen manufactory, without interest, for the encouragement of that trade. He also has the workhouses, &c. rent-free.
500
0
0
By all this it appears, that the charitable stock of the city of Durham hath chiefly arisen from Mr Smith's charity, which was originally given for a manufactory; but by reason of the disappointments met with, by trusting the clothworkers' (who proved knaves) with the money, the governors in 1619 devised a different disposition of the charity money as before-mentioned, for which end the bulk of the stock was laid out in land."—Such is the account given of the rise of this charitable stock.
A full illustration of the foregoing history of the charitable stock will appear in the inquisitions taken by virtue of the several commissions for charitable uses mentioned hereafter.
The first commission bears date the 12th of March, 1609, directed to William lord bishop of Durham and others,
for the due execution of a certain statute made in the high court of parliament, holden the 27th of October, in the 43d year of the reign of queen Elizabeth, entitled, An act to redress the misemployments of lands, goods, and stocks of money given to charitable uses; to enquire by the oaths of twelve lawful men, &c.
A new commission in like form issued, dated the 22d of Feb. 1610.
To these commissions, or the one of them, an inquisition was taken and returned at the city of Durham the 28th day of March, 1611, setting forth, that
Hen. Smith,
of Durham, gentleman, deceased, by his last will and testament, written in his life-time, subscribed and sealed, &c. the 20th of July, 1598, did bequeath all his leases of the
colemines of Hargyll, Grewburne, and Softley,
in the county of Durham, and all the estate, tithe, and interest that he had therein for divers yeares then unexpired, by virtue of sundry leases made to him by the queen (Elizabeth) and bishops of Durham, xx lb. yearly rent yssuing out of the
colepitts called Carter-thorne Colliery-pitts,
in the said county; the interest in which myne of coales he in his said will devised to Toby lord archbishop of York, his grace then bishop of Durham, to all his terme therein yet for sundry yeares by course of tyme contynuing, to the cittie of Durham, with all his coales above the ground, with all implements whatsoever, and all books of reckonnings, with all leases and writings touching the said colepitts, with all the coales provided for those uses, and two great chists wherein they were
So in the original.
; that the increase thereof might be employed to the benefit of manie, &c. And they also say, that he did by his last will give sundry legacies to sundry his friends, amounting in all to the sum of 305l. and for the payment of the said legacies only, did nominate Tho. Pearson then alderman of the said city of Durham, Edw. Wanless of the said city, dyer, and Wm Hall of the same, draper, his executors; and upon payment of the said legacies did ordaine, that his said executors should be no further troubled; and all the rest of his goods he did bequeath to the city, of Durham for the uses above expressed.
And then sets forth the receipt of the profits of the colemines from the year 1598 to 1607, but no amount is mentioned. The inquisition also further sets forth, that
John Franklyn,
then late of Coken, in the county of Durham, gentleman, did, by his last will, dated the 19th of Nov. 1572, bequeath 100 l. to the mayor, aldermen and others of Newcastle, upon condition that they should see paid for the same xl. yearly for the increase thereof (part of which) 3 l. 6 s. 8 d. to the prisoners and other poor people of Durham.
Several subsequent commissions issued, one in 1617, another 1622, a third 1629, and a fourth during the usurpation in 1659, directed to Sir Tho. Widdrington, knt. Sir Arthur Hazelrigg, bart. Sir Geo. Vane, knt. Francis Wren, &c. &c. and a fifth, dated the 10th of Dec. 1669, to which latter an inquisition was taken and returned, dated the 4th of Nov. 1670, which sets forth, that
it appears by an inquisition, taken at Durham on the 22d day of June, 1650, before, &c. that one Mr
John Heighington,
late of Durham, alderman, being mayor of the said city in 1637, got then into his hands several large sums of money, belonging to the charity stock of the said city of Durham, as follows;—of the donation of Mr
Hen. Smith,
131 l. 1 s. 4 d.—of the donation of Mr
Hugh Hutchinson,
170 l.—of, &c. of Mr
Francis Buney,
20 l.—of, &c. of Mr
John Walton,
some time alderman of Derby, 5 l.—of, &c. of Dr
Augustine Linsells,
196 l.—in all 542 l. 1 s. 4 d. That the said John Heighington did afterwards, &c. clear himself of 20 l. of Mr Buney's money, and 196 l. of Dr Linsell's donation; but in 1663 was in arrear to the said charitable stock, part of Mr Smith's donation, 414 l. 13 s. 10 d.—of Mr Hutchinson's, 208 l.—of Mr Walton's, 10 l.—in all, 632 l. 13 s. 10 d. which he was decreed to pay within three months; but that no part either for principal or interest had been paid: So that with interest from the 12th of Nov. 1663, at 6 l. per cent. the whole amount is 898 l. 8 s.
There is a charity or blue-coat school maintained in the city by subscriptions and other charitable benefactions. It was begun in 1718, for six boys; in 1736, six girls were added; since that time, as the fund increased, the numbers also increased; so that now 30 boys and 30 girls are cloathed and educated; and seven boys in 1750 were superadded, in pursuance of the will of Mrs Ann Carr, who lest 500 l. to be placed out at interest for that purpose.
THE CATHEDRAL CHURCH.
HAVING shewn the government of the city, and privileges of the incorporated body, we beg leave to call the reader's attention to the history and description of the cathedral church.
In the preceding volume, under the annals of the bishops, are shewn the origin and foundation of this rich church, which renders it unnecessary now to revert to many of the facts there stated.
The reader will recollect, that in the first institution this church was served by secular clergy, who are said to have been governed by a provost. Bishop Walcher first projected a change, intending to introduce regular canons, but did not live to effect his purpose. His successor, William de Carilepho, in the year 1083 accomplished that matter, aided by the power of the crown, under the influence of the See of Rome. He applied to pope Gregory the Seventh for his precept or licence, on which he grounded his charter
Vid. notes vol. i. p. 133, where an extract from this charter is given.
, thereby declaring he granted the same by the command and council of the holy See, and that the king was present at the time of making thereof; and ordained, that all future priors of the church at Durham should possess the liberties, dignities, and honours of abbots, with the abbot's seat in the choir of the church; and to hold all their lands, churches, and possessions in their own hands and free disposition, so as the revenues thereof might thereby be increased as much as possible, exempted from royal customs
Lel. Col. vol. ii. p. 384.—Wharton's Anglia Sacra, p. 785.—Dugdale's Monast. Angl. vol. i. p. 42.
. He obtained the king's diploma to maintain and support his charter, dated in the year 1084, establishing the removal of the secular clergy from his episcopal church, and translating thither monks from Jarrow and Weremouth monasteries, who were of the order of St Augustine; by which instrument the king ordained, that all priors of that monastery should possess the same liberties, customs, dignities, and honours, as abbots
See vol. i. p. 135. for this record.—Monast. Ang. vol. i. p. 44.
; to hold the left-hand seat in the choir; have full power of appointing and removing the officers of the church; similar to the authority of a dean, have the first place and voice after the bishop; when in chapter, the first voice in all elections to the See; and, whatever dignities and honours the dean of York held, inferior to the archbishop, but superior to the archdeacon, the prior of Durham should equally hold in inferiority to his prelate, but in superiority of the archdeacon. By this instrument, the king also confirmed whatever the bishop had granted to his convent; and declared his protection of the monastery and its possessions, as well those then enjoyed, as whatever should thereafter be acquired by the money of St Cuthbert or otherwise, with
sac.
and
socne, tol
and
team,
and
infangeontheof, privilege of courts,
and
wreck
of the sea: And he also thereby ordained, that the convent and their people should be for ever thereafter exempt from all outgoings, exactions, rents, tolls, and all other royal customs appertaining to the crown. This diploma was signed in the presence of the bishops and peers of the realm, who subscribed and attested the same
A catalogue of the priors of Durham in Stevens' Monast. vol i. p. 350.
The prior of Durham had a protection granted by K. Edw. I. when all other monasteries were obliged to sue for such.—Ibid. p. 174.
Catalog. Prior. Dunelm. in Bibl. Cotton. Vespasian A. 6.
Cl. Reyner's Appendix de Monachis Benedictinis, Script. 37, p. 42.
Registrum Prioratus Dun.—Barnard. Catalog. MSS. p. 261.—Several matters relating to the priors of Durham, transcribed from the orig. in Cotton Libr. Bern. pl. 2, p. 60.—S'ti Bernardi ep. ad priorem et convent. Dunelm. in Bibliotheca Dec. et Cap. Dunelm. lib. iv. 24, p. 96.
The priors of this church were always invested with the dignity and privileges of abbots.—J. Wessington de Juribus et Possessionibus Ecclesiae Dunelm.—MSS. in Bibl. Cotton. Vitellius A. 9.
Walt's Glossary in Math. Paris.
The priors of Durham summoned to sit in parl.—Dugd. Summons, p. 1.—Fuller's Ch. Hist. lib. 6. His History of Abbeys, p. 292.—Selden's Titles of Hon. pl. 2, c. 5, p. 598, 599.
Concerning the government of the monasteries of Benedictines,—see the stat. in Walt's addition to Math. Paris, p. 169, 228, 244.—Ceremoniale Benedict. p. 77, 115, 151, 194,—vide Ordinarium totius anni, ibid. p. 211
Durham Col. Oxon, dedicated to St Cuthbert, founded by the prior and convent of Durh. 1290, for eight Benedictines.
A college founded by the prior and convent of Durh. 1426, at Hemmingburgh in Yorkshire, for a provost, three canons, six vicars, and six clerks, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin.—Dugd. Mon. tom. iii. pl. 2, p. 96.
Reyner, in his Apostolatus Benedictorum in Anglia, makes the arms of the priory of Durham to be a chevron between three lions argent.— Grey's MSS.
See Tanner's Notitia Monastica, p. 112, where there is a full repertory of books, charters, &c. relating this church.
. The bishop also gave to the monastery full jurisdiction over all their churches, and acquitted them of the authority of their prelate and archdeacon, save only touching the cure of souls; and in the year 1094 he decreed, that the priors should for ever thereafter be archdeacons of the whole diocese of Durham, vicars-general, and officials
1083, Monachi in Dunelmum convenerunt, jubente rege Gulielmo majore, 7o cal. Jan. feria 6o .— Gulielmo interim Dunelmensi episcopo, de sede apostolica, litteras Gregorij papae 7 ad Gulielmi regis consilium apud West monasterium deserente, canonicos de ecclesia sua amovere, et monachos substituere, omnium consensu, impetravit.—
Ex Hist. Rog. Hoved. Lel. Col. v. iii.
.
The seculars, though removed from the seat of dignity, were not sent abroad unprovided for, several places being prepared for their residence, as will be shewn in the course of this work.
Not content with solely accomplishing so great a reformation, this prelate gave to the monastery, Rennington, the two Pittingtons, Hesselton, Dalton, Merrington, Shincliff, and Elvet; with Willington and Wall's-End north of Tyne, together with the churches of Lindisfarn, the adjacent villages of Fenham, Norham, and Skirworth, with divers churches in Yorkshire; and other donations were added by the king, among which are lands in Keverston and Gretham.
After the bishop's return from exile, he furnished the altar with various vessels and ornaments of gold and silver, and gave to the convent a large collection of valuable books
Lel. Col. vol. ii. p. 381.
. It would be an unprofitable labour in this place to note the several gifts of lands, as the whole possessions of the church appear in the endowment after the Reformation.
The bishop, conceiving the church built by his predecessors was not of suitable magnificence to the dignity and increasing power of the See, formed a plan for a new erection, similar to the superb structures he had seen on the continent; and in the year 1093 he began to erect the stately edifice, now the subject of our attention. Though the art of making glass was introduced from France in the beginning of the seventh century, and Eddius, who wrote the life of Wilfrid, and lived about the year 720, asserts, that he glazed the windows of the church of York when he repaired that edifice, yet we have no proofs to maintain the assertion. It is probable that the use of glass prevailed greatly when our prelate began this work. The original form of the windows was of the circular arch, similar to the galleries above the ailes, and they were constructed for glazing. Glass windows introduced great embellishments in public edifices, as the use of stucco and plaistering succeeded that improvement; before which the insides of the walls were regularly chisselled and polished; which circumstance has contributed greatly to the permanency of ancient buildings, the inside surface being as exactly compacted as the outside. The large windows introduced in this building are apparently of a fashion and fabrication more modern than the eleventh century, their pointed arches in nowise corresponding with the mode which is adopted through the greatest part of the ancient edifice, that kind of arch being, as our best authors agree, introduced since the reign of Henry II. The annexed plate, taken from as accurate a drawing as perhaps was ever given to the public, will save much description, and convey to the reader the most perfect idea of this fabric before the repairs and embellishments now carrying on were begun. In the plates given in the Monasticon, the western towers are ornamented with spires, which went to decay, and were removed many years ago. In Willis's Cathedrals is a beautiful plate of the north front, dedicated to bishop Talbot, but the drawing is contracted and inaccurate.
The foundation of the church was laid on the 11th of Aug. 1093, with a solemnity suited to so great and pious a work, the bishop being assisted therein by Malcolm king of Scotland, and Turgot the prior: But the prelate departing this life in the year 1095
1093, 11th Aug. Juxta Turgot.
1094, 12th Aug. Annal. Dunelm.—Wharton (notes.)—
Bishop William died 2d Jan. 1096.
, saw but a small part of his plan carried into execution. The work was zealously proceeded in by his successor bishop Flambard, who lived to see great part of the building up to the roof
Symeon Dun.—Wharton's Angl. Sac.
.
We are not informed in what state the monastic buildings were at the time the new foundation of the church was laid. Whilst bishop William was in exile, the convent built their refectory or frater-house
A description of this cathedral church, and various ceremonies there used, was published by J. Davies of Kidwelly in 1671, collected from ancient manuscripts about the time of the suppression of religious houses, and reprinted at Durham in the year 1733 by John Richardson, a bookseller there, together with several additions, and particularly a description of the fine paintings in the windows, therein alledged to be written by prior Wessington; again reprinted 1767 by Patrick Sanderson, another bookseller there, with additions.
The author was favoured by John Hogg,
esq
of Norton, with a curious manuscript roll, appar
ntly the manuscript, or a copy of that from whence Davies compiled his work; he was also favoured with another compendious manuscript by Sir John Lawson, bart. and from these, several notes relative to the ancient state of the church are compiled.
The SOUTH ALLEY of the CLOYSTERS.
On the south side of the cloysters, was fastened to the wall at the side of the cloyster door, a seat, having four feet and a back of wood, and boarded under foot for warmth: On this the porter was seated, to keep the cloyster door. The last porter was Edward Pattison. From the stool westward, on the south side, was a long bench of stone, almost to the Frater-house door, whereon were seated certain children in a row, upon Maunday Thursday, it being intended for that purpose. The whole convent of monks had each a boy assigned him, whose feet he was to wash and dry with a towel, and every monk then kissed the feet he had washed, and gave to each child thirty pence in money, seven red herrings, three loaves of bread, and a wafer cake, serving every child with drink themselves: This godly ceremony thus ended; after prayers said by the prior and convent, they all departed in good decorum. At the end of the bench adjoining to the Frater-house door, was a fine almery fixed to the wall, and another on the other side of the door; the fore part of the almeries was through-carved work, to admit air to the towels, and three doors in the fore part of each almery, and a lock on each, to which every monk had a key, to dry their hands with the towels when they washed and went to dinner. This stool and bench Tobias Matthew, then dean of Durham, caused to be taken down, and made as plain as the rest of the floor of the cloysters.
The FRATER-HOUSE.
In the south alley of the cloysters, is a large hall, called the Frater-house, finely wainscotted on the north and south sides; and in the west and nether part thereof, is a long bench of stone, in mason-work, from the cellar door to the pantry or cove door: Above the bench is wainscot-work two yards and a half high, finely carved, set with embossed work in wainscot, and gilded under the carved work. Above the wainscot was a large picture of our Saviour Christ, the blessed Virgin, and St John, in fine gilt work, and most excellent colours; which pictures having been washed over with lime, did long appear through it. This wainscot had engraven on the top of it, Thomas Castell, prior, anno Domini 1518, mensis Julij. Whence it is manifest, that prior Castell wainscotted the Frater-house.
Within the Frater-house door, on the left-hand at entering, is a strong almery in the wall, wherein a great mazer, called the grace-cup, stood, which every day served the monks after grace, to drink out of round the table; the cup was finely edged about with silver, and double gilt. In the same place were kept many large and great mazers of the same sort; among which was one called Judas's cup, edged about with silver, and double gilt, having a base to stand upon of silver double gilt: This was never in use but on Maundy Thursday, at night, when the prior and convent met to keep their Maundy. In the same almery was a goodly cup, called St Bede's bowl; the outside was of black mazer, the inside of silver double gilt, and the edge finely wrought with silver, and double gilt; in the midst was the picture of the holy St Bede, sitting in a writing posture; the base thereof of silver, double gilt, with four joints of silver coming down, all double gilt from the edge to the base to be taken in pieces. In that almery lay all the best plate that served the whole convent in the Frater-house on festival days; and there was a fine work of carved wainscot, and a strong lock on the door, so that none could perceive there was any almery at all, the key-hole being made under the carved work of the wainscot: And there is another large a
mery within the Frater-house, on the right-hand on going to the cellar, of wainscot, having several almeries within, fine wrought, and varished over with red varnish, in which lay several table-cloths, salts, mazers, a bason and ewer of latten, with other things pertaining to the Frater-house, and the loft where the monks dined and supped. Every monk had his mazer to himself to drink in, and all other things that served the whole convent, and the Frater-house, in their daily service, at their diet, and at their table. All the mazers were finely edged with double gilt silver, and another bason and ewer of latten. On this ewer was pourtrayed a man on horseback, as riding a-hunting, which served the sub-prior to wash his hands in at the aforesaid table, he sitting there as chief.
In this Frater-house the prior and whole convent of the monks held the great feast of St Cuthbert, in Lent, having their meat served out of the dresser-window of the great kitchen into the Frater-house, and their drink out of the great cellar. From the east end, being the highest of the Frater-house, adjoining to the deanery, the roof of lead was taken down by dean Whittingham, and that part annexed to his own house, making it a flat roof, whereby he gained twenty pounds.
At the east end of the Frater-house stood a neat table, with a screen of wainscot over it, being kept for the master of the novices, the elects, and the novices, to dine and sup at, having their meat served to them in at the dresser widow from the great kitchen, and their drink out of the great cellar.
At these times the master observed these wholesome and godly orders, for the continual instruction of their youth in virtue and learning; that is, one of the novices, appointed by the master, read some part of the Old and New Testament in Latin, during dinner, having a convenient place at the south end of the high table, within a beautiful glass widow, encompassed with iron, and certain stone-steps, with iron rails to go up to an iron desk, whereon lay the holy Bible. When he had done reading, the master
any a silver bell, bringing over his head, thereby giving notice to one of the novices to come to the high table and say grace; and that ended, they departed to their books.
Within the cloyster-garth, over against the Frater-house door, was a sine laver or conduit, for the monks to wash their hands and faces in, being in form round, covered with lead, and all of ma
ble, excepting the outer wall, within which they might walk about the laver. It had many spouts of brass, with 24 brazen cocks about it, and seven windows of stone-work in it; and above, a do
e
t covered with lead. The workmanship was both fine and costly. Adjoining to the east side of the conduit door hung a bell, to call the monks at eleven o'clock, to wash before dinner. In the closets or almeries, on each side of the Frater house door, in the cloysters, towels were kept white and clean to dry their hands upon.
, a description of which is given in the notes. The present library was built where it stood.
ALDWINE,
who was the head of the monastic houses of Jarrow and Weremouth, at the time their monks were translated to Durham, was made the first prior of the convent. He was originally of Wincelcambe
Lel. Col. vol. i. p. 332.—Aug. Sac. p. 787.—Chronic. Melros, p. 160, (edit. Gale) makes Aldwine to have founded the monastery anno 1073.—He was archdeacon of Durham.— Grey's Notes.
The monks built their own offices, and the bishop was at the charge of building the church.—
Steven
Monast. vol. i. p. 350.
, but having an irresistible desire to visit the venerable monastic remains in the north, travelled into this province, accompanied by two monks from Evesham. They arrived in this country in the year 1073, and first sat down at Monkchester, now Newcastle; but on the invitation of bishop Walcher, came to the ruined house of Girwa or Jarrow. That place soon becoming crowded by the number of devotees who resorted thither, several colonies emigrated from thence: One body of monks settled at Streoneschale or Whitby; another at York, from whom arose the noted monastery of St Mary; another went to Melros; and a fourth to Weremouth. Aldwine enjoyed his new dignity but a very short time, he departing this life on the 12th of April, 1087
Lel. Col. vol. i. p. 332.—Aug. Sac. p. 787.—Chronic. Melros, p. 160, (edit. Gale) makes Aldwine to have founded the monastery anno 1073.—He was archdeacon of Durham.— Grey's Notes.
The monks built their own offices, and the bishop was at the charge of building the church.—
Steven
Monast. vol. i. p. 350.
. His successor
TURGOT,
to whom the modern historian is so much indebted for information touching the ancient state of this See, was said to be of noble birth, and, in his youth, one of those unhappy persons who were confined in the castle of Lincoln, soon after the Norman conquest: Escaping from prison, he fled to Norway, and was graciously received. Some years after, returning to England, he suffered shipwreck, and lost all his effects. He resorted to Durham, where he obtained protection of bishop Walcher, who recommended a religious life to him, and placed him under the tuition of Aldwine at Jarrow. From that monastery he went to Melros; from thence to Weremouth, where he assumed the monastic habit; and, lastly, returned to Durham. On Aldwine's death, Turgot, with the general assent of the prelate and monastery, was elected prior of Durham in the year 1087, the office of archdeacon being annexed to that dignity. The monastery profited greatly by his prudent government; the privileges were enlarged, and revenues considerably increased by his influence; and he promoted many improvements in the sacred edifices. He contributed an everlasting ornament to the monastery by the Ecclesiastical History which he compiled, beginning with the foundation of the See, and proceeding to the year 1096. After filling the office of prior with great dignity and piety for near twenty years, he was elected bishop of St Andrew's and primate of Scotland in 1107, and consecrated by archbishop Thomas, at York, on the 1st of August, 1109
Ang. bac.
86.—Hoveden, 2
1.—Symeon, 2
. Dissentions arising between bishop Turgot and the king of Scotland, the prelate's anxiety and distress of mind brought on a decline of health, under which he obtained permission to return to England; and came back to Durham in the year 1115, where he resided little more than two months before his death. Stevens saith, that he returned to Durham after the death of king Malcolm and his queen
He was grave, modest, sober, temperate, prudent, of great authority, and no less piety and erudition. The veracity in his writings is reckoned unquestionable, for, besides his natural modesty, he never commited any thing to paper, of the certain truth whereof he was not thoro'ly assured.—Stevens' Mon. p. 199.
Willis's Hist. of Mitr. Abb. p. 259.—Spotiswood's Ch. Hist. of Scotland, p. 30 and 31, saith, Turgot died in Scotland, and was from thence conveyed to and buried at Durham: And in the Appendix, p. 43, saith, Turgot was bishop of St Andrew's 1063.
Turgot wrote De Exordio et Progressu Ecclesiae Dunelm. ab. an. 635 ad. an. 1097. MSS. in Bibl. Cotton. Faustina A 5. which was transcribed by Symeon Dunelm. inter 10 scriptores.—Vide Selden, Prefat. ib.— Collier's Supplement.—Monuments of Durham, p. 94, 113.—Archbishop Usher's Letters, p. 315, 321.— Lel. Col. vol. i. pl. 2. p. 386.—Stevens, Monasticon, vol. i. p. 199, saith, he was one of the hostages given to William the Conqueror for Lindsey and the castle of Lincoln, &c.—By his advice Malcolm king of Scotland repaired the monastery of Durham. He wrote the Life of king Malcolm and his queen Margaret, of the kings of Scots, Annals of his Own Times, and Chronicle of Durham. After the death of king Malcolm and his queen, he returned to Durham, and soon after died.
Symeon Dunelmensis, a Benedictine, and precentor of Durham, who lived in the same age, made very bold with Turgot's performance, and leaving out some few passages relating to Turgot's person, transcribed his book, and published it under his own name. Notwithstanding the conjecture of Pits and Bale, 'tis plain Turgot wrote his Annals or History in Latin.—Collier, vol. i. p. 307.
The CUSTOM of BURYING PRIORS.
The priors of the house of Durham were accustomed in ancient time to be buried in their boots, and wound in their cowls by the barber, as the monks used to be buried. The dead prior was carried out of his lodgings in the priory, to the chamber in the infirmary, called the Dead Man's Chamber, there to remain a certain time: At night he was carried into a chapel opposite to that chamber door, called St Andrew's Chapel, and was watched all that night by the children of the almery, reading David's psalms over him; and two monks either of kindred or kindness, were appointed to sit all night at his feet, mourning for him. In the morning he was carried into the chapter-house, where the same solemn service was performed for him, which the monks had at their burial; thence he was carried through the parlour into the centry-garth to be buried, where every prior lay under a sine marble stone: And the monks and barber buried him with a little chalice of silver, other metal, or wax, which was laid upon his breast within the coffin, and his blue bed was held over him by four monks till he was buried, which the barber had for his pains, for making the grave and burying him, as he had for the monks.
Afterwards the priors were buried within the church, and not in the centry-garth, in the same order and habit, with the mi
re, and all other furniture, as their predecessors were buried before them in the centry-garth — Ancient Customs of the Church at Durham.
. He was buried in the chapter-house, between bishops Walcher and William.
After Turgot's departure for the See of St Andrew's, unhappy dissentions took place between the monastery and bishop Flambard; no prior was appointed for a considerable time; and the duties of archdeacon, official, and vicar-general, were severed from the office of prior: The bishop also possessed himself of several of the conventual estates, as lands beyond the bridge which he built, called Framwelgate or Durham bridge, Staindrop, Blakiston, lands in Wolviston and Burdon, and the church of Siggeston.
Before we advance further in the history of this church, it is necessary to observe, that the monks translated thither were of the Benedictine order. They followed the rules of St Benedict, who was born at Norsi, in the dukedom of Spoletto, in Italy, about the year 480, and died about 543. But his rule seems not to have been confirmed till 52 years after his death, when pope Gregory the Great gave a sanction to it. The habit of these monks was a black loose coat, or a gown of stuff reaching down to their heels, with a cowl or hood of the same, and a scapulary; and under that, a white habit, as large as the former, made of flannel, with boots on their legs; and from the colour of their outward habit, they were generally called Black monks. This rule was introduced into England in king Edgar's time, but never perfectly observed till after the Conquest. Of this order were all our cathedral priories, except Carlisle and most of the richest abbeys in England.
The Benedictines were obliged to perform their devotion seven times within four-and-twenty hours
Concord. Regular, collected by St Benedict, and published with a comment by Friar Aenard 1638.— Fuller's Ch. Hist. lib. vi. p. 287.—Collier's Ecc. Hist. lib. ii. p. 107.
. At cock-crowing, or the NOCTURNAL: This service was performed at two o'clock in the morning: The reason for pitching upon this hour, is taken partly from David's saying,
At midnight I will praise the Lord,
and partly from a tradition of our Saviour's rising from the dead about that time. MATINS: These were said at the first hour, or, according to our computation, at six o'clock: At this time the Jewish morning sacrifice was offered: The angels likewise were supposed to have acquainted the women with our Saviour's resurrection about this hour. The TIERCE; which was at nine in the morning, when our Saviour was condemned and scourged by Pilate. The SEXTE, or twelve at noon. The NONE, or three in the afternoon: At this hour it is said our Saviour gave up the ghost; besides which circumstance, it was a time for public prayer in the temple at Jerusalem. VESPERS, at six in the afternoon: The evening sacrifice was then offered in the Jewish temple; and our Saviour is supposed to have been taken down from the cross at this hour. The COMPLINE: This service was performed after seven, when our Saviour's agony in the garden, it is believed, begun. The monks going to bed at eight, had six hours to sleep before the Nocturnal began: If they went to bed after that service, it was not, as we understand, reckoned a fault; but after mattins they were not allowed that liberty. At the tolling of the bell for prayers, the monks were immediately to leave off their business; and herein the canon was so strict, that those who copied books, or were clerks in any business, and had begun a text letter, were not allowed to finish it. Those who were employed abroad about the business of the house, were presumed to be present, and excused other duties; and that they might not suffer by being elsewhere, they were particularly recommended to the divine protection. The monks were obliged to go always two together; this was done to guard their conduct, to prompt them to good thoughts, and furnish them with a witness to defend their behaviour. From Easter to Whitsuntide the primitive church observed no fasts; at other times the religious were bound to fast till three o'clock on Wednesdays and Fridays; but the twelve days in Christmas were excepted in this canon. Every day in Lent they were enjoined to fast till six in the evening: During this solemnity, they shortened their refreshment, allowed fewer hours for sleep, and spent more time in their devotions; but they were not permitted to go into voluntary austerities, without leave from the abbot. They were not to talk in the refectory at meals, but hearken to the scriptures read to them at that time. The Septimarians, so called from their weekly offices of readers, waiters, cooks, &c. were to dine by themselves, after the rest. Those who were absent about business, had the same hours of prayer prescribed, though not the same length of devotions. Those sent abroad, and expected to return at night, were forbidden to eat till they came home: But this canon was sometimes dispensed with. The Compline was to be solemnly sung about seven at night: The service concluded with this verse,
Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth, and keep the door of my lips.
After this service the monks were not allowed to talk, but went to bed immediately. They were all to sleep in the same dormitory, but not two in a bed: They lay in their cloaths. For small faults they were excluded the public table; but for greater, were debarred religious commerce, and the service of the chapel: And those conversing with a person under such censure, were liable to the same punishment. Incorrigible criminals were expelled the monasteries. When a brother was again received after expulsion, he lost his seniority, and was placed the last in the convent. Every monk was to have two coats and two cowls; and when they had new cloaths, their old ones were given to the poor: Each had a table-book, a knife, a needle, and a handkerchief: The furniture of the bed was a mat, blanket, rug, and pillow. The superior was never to dine alone; so, when there were no strangers, he was to invite some of his brethren to his table.—Such were the regulations of this monastery.
In the year 1109 the bishop consented to nominate
ALGAR
to be prior
Wharton's Ang. Sac. p. 786.—Lel. Col. vol. i. part 2, p. 390, 391.
. He presided over the monastery till the year 1137, (according to Stevens) when he departed this life. The bishop was reconciled to the convent in this prior's time, and in the year 1128 restored several of the possessions which he had usurped, and filled the vacant offices. In a solemn act of expiation, he confirmed the restitution, by offering a ring at the high altar, and granting two several written charters to that purpose
Vide notes to vol. i. p. 151, of this work, where the charters are set forth. The ring was in that age
a sacred emblem of unity and solemn compact.
. He also enlarged and ornamented the common hall of the monastery, and gave to the convent the hermitage, church, and possessions of Finchale. He opened out the north front of the cathedral church, and cleared away all the buildings which crowded the area or plain between the cathedral and castle, rendering it a level and beautiful square, which then took the name of the
Placea,
or
Green Place,
of which we shall speak in course. After this prelate's death, the monks proceeded in the building of the church, and during the vacancy of the See finished that great work.
Galfrid, surnamed Rufus, who succeeded to the bishopric, built the chapter-house for the convent. Soon after Algar's death,
ROGER
was made prior; a man of the most pious life, brought up from infancy in the discipline of the cloister. He held a controversy with archdeacon Wazo, touching the place of honour on the right-hand of the bishop; which was adjudged to be the prior's right, by bishop William de Sancta Barbara, in the year 1147. He held his dignity during the whole time of Cumin's usurpation, and departed this life in the year 1149
A
g. S
c. p. 78.
.
LAWRENCE
was then made prior
Angl. Sac. p. 787.
; after whose coming in bishop William survived only three years, and was succeeded by bishop Pudsey, in the year 1153. The prior is described as a man of approved discretion, of a heart superior to evil, possessing a refined eloquence, and duly disciplined in religious rules. Strenuous in the matter of Pudsey's election, he was included with the rest of the religious body in the sentence of excommunication pronounced by the archbishop of York, and underwent the discipline of the whip in Beverley church; after which he travelled to Rome with bishop Pudsey, and died as he was returning in the year 1154. His remains were brought to Durham, and interred in the cemetery-yard
The custom of burying within the church had not then taken place.
. He was a man of singular prudence and learning, a great writer, and many of his works are spoken of with much applause. There are nine MSS. of his in the bishop's library
Angl. Sac. p. 787.—Stevens' Mon. vol. i. p. 351.—Lel. Col. vol. ii. p. 365. vol. iii. p. 41.—De Scrip. vol. i. c. 174.
. He was succeeded by
ABSOLOM,
a person of whom little more is known than that he had a foreign education, and was but a shallow scholar. He was under the bishop's displeasure during the whole time he held this high office, and from weakness and want of resolution suffered the angry prelate to infringe the privileges of the convent in various instances. He departed this life in the year 1162
Geof. de Coldingham.—Wharton's Ang. Sac. p. 781, 787.—MS. B. iv. 26, p. 1. In the library of the dean and chapter of Durham.—Hic incipiunt instituta priorum Dunelm. ecclesiae sacta per consensum capituli. Constitutum est in capitulo a priore Absolom & conventu, ut in mandato quod fit in coena d'ni unusquisq. monachus duos pauperes habeat et sexternos denarios; singulis dans pauperibus. Et ad hoc assignavit duas marcas de eccl'ia de Aclea, et xv den. de villa de Cramelingtona. Quod si denarii defecerint de duabus marcis que ad hoc deputate sunt de eccl'ia de Aclea, de communi suppleantur, donec redditus ad hoc deputetur qui possit sufficere.
Ex hac nota collegi potest, suisse ea aetate in coenobio Dunelm. monachos saltem quinquaginta.—Randal's MSS.
In statutis prioris T. vid. p. 131, note (‡), tunicae 50 dantur annuatim conventui.
.
THOMAS
was soon after elected prior. He could not brook the insolence which bishop Pudsey discovered on every occasion, and was of too great rectitude of mind to suffer passively the infringements that prelate repeatedly made on the rights of his monastery. He entered into a contest with the bishop concerning the church of Allerton. The monks not supporting their prior in this just suit, the bishop deposed him, or constrained him by his persecutions to resign. In disgust with the world, he retired to one of the Farne islands, in which St Cuthbert formerly had his residence, and, restoring some of the buildings, lived the life of a recluse, and died there in 1163
Geoff. de Cold.—Ang. Sac. p. 721, 787.—Stevens' Mon. vol. i. p. 351.
.
GERMAN
succeeded in the year 1163. He was a monk of this house, and described to be of a patient and forbearing disposition, prudent and peaceful; that, from his predecessor's example, he thought it better to submit to the troubles of the monastery, than encrease them by fruitless contention: He continued prior to the time of his death, which happened in the year 1186. In his time, restitution was made to the convent of several matters which bishop Flambard had taken away, as well as others with-held by the then prelate
Geof. de Cold.—Wharton's Angl. Sac. p. 721.—Wharton, p. 788.—MS. lib. iv. 26. Dec. et Cap.— Deinde constituit Germanus prior, ut unusquisque monachus in predicto mandato tres pauperes habeat et novem denarios. Et ad hoc assignavit xvs. de capella de Ertona.—MS. lib. iv. 24. Folio tertio inscribitur haec notula (Biblioth. Dec. et Cap.) Anno ab incarnatione D'ni Mo . Co . Lxxvo . quo rex Henricus major recepit legantias et fidelitates de Scottis apud Eboracum, Dusgal silius Sumerledi et Stephanus Capellanus suus et Adam de Stanford receperunt fraternitatem eccl'ie n're ad pedes S'ci Cuthb'ti, in vigilia S'ci Bartholomei et idem Dusgal obtulit ibi duos annulos aureos S'co Cuthb'to et promisit se singulis annis quamdiu vixerit daturum conventui unam marcam sive in denariis sive in equivalentia.
; but it was not till the time of his successor,
BERTRAM,
that the abbot's seat in the choir and chapter-house was reassumed, the priors having been denied that place of honour for several years, whilst under the prelate's displeasure. It appears that the office of prior was vacant for two years, Bertram not being elected till the year 1188 or 1189. He survived bishop Pudsey, and for some years before his death had power to conciliate the mind of that prelate, and reconcile him to the convent
Geof. de Cold.—Wharton's Angl. Sac. p. 721.—Warton, 788.— Stevens' Mon. vol. i. p. 351.—MS. lib. iv. 26. Dec. et Cap.—D'nus Bertramus prior cum concilio et consensu capituli statuit, ut unusquisque monachis in predicto mandato v. pauperes habeat et ad hoc assignavit xxs. annuatim de bladis et de pasturis de Heworth. Et constituit ut annuatim in die S'ti Cuthberti in quadragesima pascantur centum pauperes in curia S'ti Cuthberti; et totidem in translatione ejusdem. Item constituit cum concilio capituli festivitatem omnium Sanctorum principalem, et festivitatem purificationis beati Marie V'ginis similiter. Et in annunciatione et in nativitate S'te Mar
e panem dominicum in refectorio. Et in adventu D'ni et in septuagesima wastellas et albas sabas sicut in quadragesima. Statuit etiam ut in die Animarum pascantur centum pauperes in curia S'ti Cuthberti de quibus sexaginta sint el'ici qui psalteria sua cantent pro animabus o'in. fidelium desunctorum. Et similiter in crastino die pro animabus omnium parentum et benefactorum nostrorum siet. Et utroq. die singuli
l'iei recipiant singulos denarios.
.
Hugh Pudsey, after the example of his predecessors, was desirous of contributing to the beauty and magnificence of the church at Durham, and projected a sumptuous addition towards the east. The only author who mentions this, is Geoffrey de Coldingham
Wharton's Ang. Sac. p. 722, 723.
, who tells us, that he began to erect a new work at the east end of the church, for which he imported from abroad marble columns and bases; but having laid the foundations, and carried up the walls to some considerable height, employing the most skilful artists therein, the building repeatedly failed and shrunk, to the imminent peril of the workmen; which sufficiently indicated to him, that the intended work was not acceptable to Heaven and St Cuthbert: So that he desisted therefrom, and built the Gallilee at the west end of the church, for the reception of women; where they might have the benefit of the holy offices, being otherwise debarred from the solemnities. It doth not appear the marble columns were placed in the Gallilee. It must be observed in this place, that the eastern transept of the church is rather a singularity, and was not built near the time of the other parts; the architecture throughout the whole being different. Great improvements in architecture were made, from the aera of the foundation by bishop William, to the time of bishop Pudsey's death: The more elegant Gothic order took place of the Saxon, and the pointed arches came in use: All the windows of this part of the edifice, in the lower arrangement to the east, are pointed: The clustered pilasters are chiefly of marble, though shamefully defaced and bedaubed with a wash of lime and ochre: There are no marble pilasters in any other part of the church, or any of the like order of masonry. Although no historian tells us who finished this work, yet that it was begun by bishop Pudsey is certain, and left by him unfinished for reasons hid in superstitious allegory; probably it was compleated in the time of bishop Farnham and prior Thomas Melsonby. The Gallilee, said to be built by bishop Pudsey, doth not appear to be wholly a new erection; it is probable he improved it, and appropriated the place to the pious purpose before ascribed to it: It is formed with a triple range of pillars, so as to divide it into five ailes, nearly of equal width; the arches are circular, and ornamented with zigzag mouldings; the pillars are light, and clustered; above the arches is a dead facing or wall, which goes up to the roof, without any apparent utility, and far from being ornamental; the windows are pointed. It is noted to us, that a certain part of the most ancient churches had a place called the Gallilee, where the processions ended
E Catalog. Cod. MS. Ecclesiae Cathedr. Dunelm. Λ. 4to. 13 Lucas Glosatus.
In fine libri haec nota legitur: "Dicitur quod in primitiva ecclesia omni quinta seria faciebant processionem in memoriam eductionis discipulorum in Bethaniam, et ascensionis Domini in coelum, et discipulorum etiam in templo laudantium et expectantium: Que postea translata est in diem dominicam, et sit singulis diebus dominicis. Alii dicunt quod processio sit in diebus dominicis, ad significandum, quod discipuli secuti lunt in Galileam: Unde in quibusdam ecclesiis stationem faciunt in Galilea."
Hanc notam exscripsi, ut pateret mos ecclesiasticus processiones faciendi, saltem ante
am aetatem, qua codex hic scriptus est, circ. an. 1150.
Quaere an Galilea in occidentali parte hujus ecclesiae (Dunelm.) nomen inde traxerit, quod stationes et processiones iste in ea fierent.—
Randal's MSS.
: Those processions were made on the Sabbath-day, to signify or commemorate the passage of the disciples into Gallilee; so that in every church where those processions were practised, a certain station therein had that name.
Bishop Pudsey gave to the church many rich ornaments, and greatly enlarged the power of the monastery: The Yorkshire churches, until the time of this prelate, appertained to the bishops, as appears by a deed of composition made with the archbishop of York about the year 1174; but Pudsey granted them to the convent
Compositio inter Rogerum archiep. E
orum et epise. Dunolm. super ecclesis St. Cuthberti.
Vide Hoveden, p. 309, edit. 1596.—Mon. Angl tom.
. p. 16
.
Capella et cimiterium de
Alvertona
in manu. prioris Hagustald erunt, ita quod archiepiscopus non coget aliquem ibi sepeliri, nec episcopus prohibe
it.
Ecclesia Hagustald crisma et oleum recipiet a Dunelmensi ecclesia, sicut solet: Prior quoq. ve
et ad synodum Dunelm. clerici et canonici Hagustald ab episcopo Dunelm. ordines recipient, parochi
m Hagustald in Pentecosten visitabunt, si voluerint. Prior Hagustald omnia placita ecclesiastica illius parochite placitabit sine paena pecuniaria, et pecunias dabit.
Decedente vero priore Richardo, qui nunc est, eam auctoritatem habebit episcopus Dunelmensis in alterius prioris constitutione, quam idem prior Richardus, et prior Guiseburn, et Petrus, s
ater prioris de Brenlynton, juraverunt ecclesiam Dunelmensem habuisse in constitutione ejusdem prioris Richard siquam habuisse eam juraverunt.
De ecclesiis B. Cuthberti quarum h
ec sunt nomina in archidiaconatu Johannis silij Letoldi. Ecclesia de
Hamingburgh,
ecclesia de
Skipewith,
ecclesia de
Alverton,
ecclesia de
Bre
teby,
ecclesia de
Osmunderlay,
ecclesia de
Siggistone,
ecclesia de
Leic,
ecclesia de
Ott
mtona,
ecclesia de
Cre
,
ecclesia de
Holteby.
In archidia-conatu Gaufridi in Eboraco, ecclesia
omnium Sanctorum
in
Usegate,
ecclesia
S. Petri Parva,
et dimidia ecclesia
S. Trinitatis.
In archidiaconatu thesaurarij, ecclesia de
Hovedon,
ecclesia de
Wellet,
ecclesia de
Brentingham,
ecclesia de
Walkintona;
non exiget archiepiscopus denarios synodales. Si vero clerici earundum ecclesiarum, vel laici de dominicis manerijs B. Cuthberti in Eboraciscira aliquid dignum ecclesiastica castigatione perpetraverint, per archiepiscopum emendabitur tali prius facta sub monitione, quod episcopus interesse poterit vel minister ejus.
Haec fupradicta firmaverunt archiepiscopus et episcopus fide invicem interposita se servaturos sine dolo et fraude quamdiu vixerit, sine prejudicio utriusq. ecclesiae imposterum post alterutrum decessum.
Preterea de capellis de
Ottrintona
et
Walgaby
plenarium rectum tenebit archiepiscopus episcopo in curia sua sicut equus et favorabilis judex. Et si episcopus alteram vel utramq. nullo se opponente adquirere poterit, non plus exigetur ab illis quam a caeteris B. Cuthberti ecclesijs.
Si persona de
Levintona
adversus episcopum de capella de
Werkessale
tam — voluerit, episcopus in curia archiepiscopi judicio stabit, episcopi pro amore archiepiscopus reseisiet Gamalielem de decimis quas postulat, salva pensione, &c. Testibus A. Abbate Rivall. Rad.
Ralph was treasurer of York anno Domini 1093 and 1113; or Ralph de Warnavilla, who was archdeacon of York anno 1173. [The above instrument is supposed to bear date A. D. 1174.—
Ex MS. C. Hunter, M. D. and Randal.
]
thesaur. Eborum, Johanne fil. Letoldi archidiac. Eborum, &c.
Hugonis episcopi Dunelm. confirmatio ecclesiarum in dioc. Ebor. priori et conventui Dunelm.
Hugo, Dei gratia, Dun. ep'us, archidiaconis, et baron, clericis et laicis, Francis et Anglis, cunctisq. hominibus S. Cuthberti de
Everwichescire.
salutem. Cum singularum ecclesiarum in nostra diocesi consistentium cura et solicitudo nobis incumbat, illius praecipuè utilitati et quieti operam impendere satagimus; cum Deo auctore specialiter assignati sumus. Ea propter caritatis iustinctu commoniti priori et conventui S. Cuthberti damus et concedimus, et nostro munimine confirmamus personatum omnium ecclesiarum quas habent tam in dominijs meis quam in terris propriis vel alienis quae ad episcopatum vel ecclesiam nostram pertinent. Ex quibus has proprijs exprimendas duximus vocabulis, ecclesiam de
Allvertuna,
ecclesiam de
Mathrebruntuna,
ecclesiam de
Siggistuna,
ecclesiam
omnium Sanctorum in Eboraco,
cum duabus eccl'ijs alijs, ecclesiam de
Holteby,
ecclesiam de
Walchintuna,
ecclesiam de
Welletuna,
ecclesiam de
Brentyngham,
ecclesiam de
Offendene,
ecclesiam de
Hemyngburgh,
ecclesiam de
Skypwith.
Harum omnium ecclesiarum sive capellarum ad easdem ecclesias pertinentium personatum et dispositionem eis ita liberè concedimus, ut quoscunq. eligerint vicarios per se, sive per vicarios suos absq. omni contradictione introducant, assignatis eis portionibus quibus sustentari valeant, et episcopalia jura persolvere, et honestè ecclesiae deservire. Sancimus itaq. et episcopale auctoritate prohibemus, nequis de caetero ecclesiastica secularisve persona presatam dignitatem auferre vel diminuere, seu quolibet modo perturbare praesumat, sed sicut a nobis pietatis intuitu concessum est, perpetuis temporibus inviolabiliter observetur. Si quis autem hanc nostrae constitutionis seriem sciens ille timerè contraire praesumpserit, indignationem Dei omnipotentis, et beatissimi confessoris ejus Cuthberti, se noverit incursurum. Hujus donationis et concessionis testes sunt Gwazo et Johannes archidiac. Mag. Laurentius, Theodbaldus, et alius Theodbaldus, Mag. Thomas de Jorevals, et Helias clerici episcopi, Alanus presbiter de Valeshend, Mag. Roger Testard, Helias et Rad. de Werkeworth, Richardus presbiter de Pitinduna, Dolsinus presbiter de Elwete, Rodbertus et Michael de Billingham, Helias Escoland, Thomas silius Osberti, et multi alii clerici et laici.
.
On bishop Pudsey's death, Hugh Bardolph had custody of the temporalties of the See, whose officers entered the church, and took by violence the keys of the city gates from St Cuthbert's shrine. Philip, who succeeded to the bishopric, held violent contentions with the monastery, prior Bertram strenuously maintaining the rights and privileges of his convent. The persecution this prelate exercised against the religious body, was scandalous to religion; but how far the injuries and indignities he received might irritate, we know not
Geof. de Cold.—Wharton's Ang. Sac. p. 727, 728, 729.—Vide notes, vol. i. p. 189.
. Prior Bertram survived him, but did not live to see his successor in the See; for dissentions arose concerning the election of a prelate, the convent not being willing to submit to the papal injunctions, or the king's nomination; and during this state of perplexity, the prior departed this life in the year 1209.
The disagreement which subsisted between the late prelate and his convent prevented improvements taking place in the sacred edifices; and it is apprehended the eastern transept of the cathedral church was neglected during that bishop's time.
In the annals of the bishops it is observed, that a vacancy of the See took place after the death of Philip of Poicteu, for the space of nine years and upwards, in which period, Wharton notes, much darkness and perplexity appear in the history of this church, occasioned by the distraction of the religious body, who had neglected their records; so that, if during this vacancy the eastern transept was proceeded in, it is not mentioned by the scribes of the house in any of their chronicles.
WILLIAM,
a native of Durham, was elected successor to Bertram during the vacancy of the See, the king having granted licence to the convent for that purpose. He departed this life in the year 1214, or, as some say, 1219. If we rest upon the credit of Wharton, he died before Richard de Marisco had the bishopric. Geoff. de Coldingham tells us of an honourable distinction given to this prior of Durham by the legate archbishop of York, at a council held there, in which the prior, in the place of the bishop of Durham, had the right-hand of the legate both in council and at dinner
Geof. de Cold.—Wharton's Ang. Sac. p. 726.—Ibid. p. 788.
.
RALPH KERNECH
succeeded to the office of prior, and governed the church for nineteen years. He departed this life in the year 1203. In the second year of the episcopacy of Richard de Marisco a reconciliation took place between the prelate and monastery, and the bishop by his charter confirmed to the prior and convent all the liberties and privileges granted to them by bishop William de Carilepho; and as an additional bounty, appropriated to them the church of Dalton, (alias Datton) for the better support of their house, and also confirmed the appropriations of the churches of Aycliff and Pittington.
In the year 1228 Richard Poor was translated to the See: He lived on terms of amity with the monastery, entering into a convention with the prior and convent, for preventing future disputes with their bishops, quieting their possessions, and ascertaining their privileges
Vide record at length in the notes, vol. i. p. 202.
Ranulphus Kerneck successit, et obiit anno 1233.—Wharton, p. 788.
Great differences between Richard de Marisco and the monks in this prior's time.—Vide M. Paris ao 1221, 1226.—Camden's Remains, p. 322.—Grey's Notes.
MS. lib. iv. 26. D. et Cap.
1214.—Constitu. est p. Radulfum priorem primo anno prioratus sui q'd viij equi omnium hospitum habeant quarterium avenae. Et omnes hospites perhendinantes per duas vel tres noctes habeant eandem assisam. Et quicunq. fuerit marescallus et qui deliberavit p'bendam jurabit q'd dictam assisam fideliter tenebit. Et ad hoc assignata est capella de
Croxtayl
cum omnibus decimis et oblationibus et obventionibus de Croxtayl et de Sunderland et tota decima bladi de ultra aquam.—Item statutum est de eisdem ut in mandato in coena d'ni sint super quindecies viginti pauperes et viij, quor. singuli quatuor recipient denarios, qui denarij sunt ita assignati, de decima d'ni de
Heworth
iij marc. de terra capellae ejusdem villae et de decima ejusdem terrae xxx
s.
viij
d.
de terra de Cremelington dimid. marc. de terra de capella de Staynton x
s.
et per specialem assignationem conversus de terra de Heworth quam — xv
s.
summa denariorum c
s.
et xxviij
d.
summa pauperum ut dictum est quindecies viginti et viij.—Item statutum est per eosdem postea ut qualibet die Veneris, et qualibet vigilia p. annu. s. natal. Pasch. Pentec. Joh'is Bapt. et omnium Apostulorum, et qualibet vigilia Beatae Virg'is et Sancti Cuthberti, et vigilia omnium Sanctorum tota cervisia que in justiciis remanserit cedat elemosinario ad usum pauperum qui in elemosinaria sunt fideliter eroganda.—Item statutum est postea per eosd. ut in anniversario Will'i e'pi primi singulis annis in nocte precedente totus conventus, scilicet omnes qui interesse possunt, eant ad S. Cuthb'tum
cum verba mea
et tribus orationibus s.
Deus qui inter Ap'licos
singulariter et postea
D'ne qu'is, et Fidelium.
Et eodem die pascantur in curia centum pauperes, et cervisa que in eodem die in justiciis remanet cedat elemosinario. Haec constitutio facta est per Radulphum priorem per commune concilium totius capituli Dunelm. quam qui augmentaverit Deus ei retribuat, diminuere nullus presumat. Si quis autem presumpserit, indignationem Dei et S'tae Mar. et Sanctorum Oswaldi et Cuthb'ti se incurrere non ambigat. — Item statutum est per eosdem quod cum aliquis monachus domi obierit, sacerdos qui missam matutinalem celebravit, cum crucis et aquae benedictae portionibus eat ad tumbam fratris desuncti per xxx dies cotidie post vel ante capitulum cum vj psalmis, s.
verba mea,
&c.
cum voce mea,
et oratione
Absolve subjunctis, Deus cujus miseratione.
et
Fidelium Deus:
In redeundo autem dicant,
Miserere mei Deus,
cum oratione
Satisfaciat.
Idem vero sacerdos vel cui jusserit xiij pauperes per hostium retro chori introducat. quod et siet per triginta dies pro anima fr'is desuncti.—Item statutum est q'd per eosdem quod cum aliquis monachus apud Dunelm. obierit, habeat in die sepulturae suae xx sol. ad emend. panem ad erogand. pauperibus s. x
s.
per manum prioris de camera prioris, et x.
s.
per manum supprioris de communa.
.
THOMAS MELSONBY
was elected prior in 1233; and on the decease of bishop Richard, in the year 1237, was nominated to succeed him, and with much reluctance submitted to the choice. He was objected to by the king, who alledged many things against him of a political nature
Vol. i. p. 204.
, and others personal:
That he was an infringer of the liberties of the church, was diseased in body, had broken his vow, and disregarded religious injunctions, particularly the ordained fasts; that he was guilty of simony, was illiterate,
and such like charges, equally slanderous and untrue. After such an opposition, unwilling the See should longer continue vacant, he renounced his election, and bishop Farnham succeeded. Fearful of the king's resentment, he resigned his office in the year 1244, and retired to Farne island, where in acts of piety and charity he spent the remainder of his life. His body was brought to Durham to be interred. In the year 1242 the prior, with the approbation and assistance of the bishop, began to remove the whole of the old roof from the cathedral church, and gave this noble edifice the additional elegance of a vault of stone-work. Willis ascribes this work to the bishop in these words:
Bishop Farnham, (temp. Hen. III.) vaulted over the roof of the church with stone.
Whoever pays due attention to the mode of architecture in this part of the edifice, will easily discover that the roof of the choir and eastern transept are of similar workmanship. Graystanes, who was a monk of Durham, and lived within a century of the time we are speaking of, is most to be credited; and his words are,
Anno Domini
1242,
incoepit Thomas prior novam fabricam ecclesiae circum festum S. Michaelis, juvante episcopo,
&c.
Rob. de Graystanes.—Wharton's Angl. Sac. p. 737.
The prior also projected an additional work; for it is equally observable, that the tower of the steeple called in Davies's book the
New Work
and the
Lanthern,
are of the same order and workmanship, and express the same date
MS. lib. iv. 26. D. et Cap.
Radulphus, prior Dun. de consensu et voluntate conventus sui assignavit redditus omnes subscriptos de terris et domibus de proprio laborae et expensis suis adquisitis ad saciend. singulis annis conventui festum in die Sanctorum, Cosme et D
mi
ni, et ad pascend. ccc pauperes eodem die in curia pro anima ejus similiter et ad festum conventui faciend in die anniversarij ejusdem et ad ccc pauperes pascendos. Ad quie omnia sacienda assignavit hos redditus s. de domibus de Novo Castro quas Alanus Gateganger aliquando tenuit de dicto pri
s. D
q
nit de Henrico de Wolvyston ij marc. &c. &c.
. The faciae under the windows of the eastern transept are ornamented with rose-niches; the gallery of the lanthern is formed of open roses. The gallery of the tower of Melros abbey is similar to this, and that edifice was built in the twelfth century
For a description of this abbey, vide View of Northumberland, vol. i. p. 295.
Stevens' Monast. vol. i. p. 351.—That he began the new fabric of the church Mich. 1242: The bishop contributing the church of Bedlington and other matters thereto.
1233. Tho. 2d's de Melsamby, al's Welscomb. &c.—Grey's Notes.
MS. lib. iv. 26. D. et Cap.—
Hic incipiunt statuta d'in Thomae prioris,
&c.
1235.—Imprimis, propter pericula quae pervenire possent ex ignorantia reddituum et aliorum ecclesiae proventuum statutum est, ut singulis annis circa festum Sancti Gregorij convocentur supprior et alij fratres ad hoc vocandi. Et ostendatur eis status domus in quibus aut quantum creverit annuatim aut diminuta fuerit. Et ordinatum est etiam et statutum ut scribantur duo rotuli continentes totus domus, possessiones, redditus, et omnia alia domni pertinentia. Et sit unus in custodia supprioris, et eorum qui deputantur ad custodiam
gilli unam cum sigillo reponendus. Alius in custodia prioris cum opus fuerit circumferendus, ut si
asu contigerit unum amitti, possit
ieri recursus ad alium qui in custodia fuerit reservatus.
Item statutum est per eosdem, ut singulis annis dentur conventui 50 tunicae de longitudine sufficienti et latitudine ita quod capere possit duas pellic. ad minus de saga vel de sargia p. manum camerarij. Quae tunicae singulis annis innovare debent. Qui nova recipiunt reddant priori singulis annis veteres pauperibus el'ieis caritative distribuendas. Qui veterem non reddiderit, careat nova donce satisfecerit plenariae. Quae tunicae distribuendae sunt suppriori et omnibus qui in conventu sunt exceptis novitiis et juvencellis et obedientiariis, s. domino priore, terrario, camerario, hostilario, sacrista, clemosinario, qui sibi provideant. Ad has autem tunicas inveniendas assignatae sunt x marce de pensione
l'iae de Daltona quae reddi solebant ad scaccarium d'ni prioris.
Item ad reprimendam malignantium temeritatem statutum est per eosdem, ut secundum antiquam et approbatam consuetudinem ecclesiae Dunelm. excommunicen
ur in anno in ge
ere acceneis candelis et pulsat
impanis solemniter omnes illi qui scienter et prudenter perturbant pa
em ecclesiae Dunelm et qui
nfringunt vel minuunt jura, libertates, et possessiones ecclesiae Dun.
. d'ni e'pi et prioris et convent
s Dun. s. d'nica in octab. natal. D'ni, d'nica clausi Pasch. et d'nica infra octab. S'
i Cuthb
ti in Septe'bri.
Item statutum est p. eosdem, ut nullus liber accommodetur alicui per librarium vel per alium, nisi
e
perit memoriale aequipollens nisi fuerit ad instantiam d'ni episcopi.
. The windows of the lanthern are pointed and ornamented with tabernacle work in pinnacles, which kind of decoration appears no where but on the buttresses of the east front. The pilasters to the windows in the lanthern are similar to those in the eastern transept, and not like any other parts of the edifice. It is not easy to determine what kind of center tower this church first had; but, from the uniformity of the outside plan, it may be conjectured it was similar to the western towers, and without much ornament. Three bells hung in the center tower, which were rung to give notice of the services of the church; four bells for other occasions, as rejoicings, &c. were being in the north-west tower adjoining the Gallilee. The new work or lanthern terminated at the gallery vulgarly called
the bellringers walk.
The upper tower was added some years after, in bishop Stichill's time. It is impossible prior Thomas should, in the two years preceding his resignation, compleat so great and expensive a work; but certain it is, he first brought it forward.
BERTRAM DE MIDDLETON
was elected prior on the 22d of September 1244, and resigned that dignity on the 15th of August 1258. Bishop Kirkham (on his accession in this prior's time) confirmed to the monastery the grants of his predecessors, and gave them the church of Heighington for the better support of hospitality, together with a large tract of land at Horsley-Hope. In this prior's time, the papal grant of the kingdom of Apulia and Sicily took place, for which the bishop of Hereford engaged to the holy See, that the clergy of England should pay 38,000 marks, to be borrowed for that purpose
Rob. de Graystanes.—Wharton's Angl. Sac. p. 738, 739.
Statutum d'ni Bertrami prioris.
1247.—Anno incarnationis D'ni Mo . CCo . Xlvijo . statutum est a d'no B. priore Dun. anno tertio prioratus sui de consensu capituli Dunelm. Ad exaltationem ordinis et salutem animarum et religionis argumentum quod nullus frater remaneat extra chorum post completorium nisi tantum hostilarius et celerarius qui ad hospites recolligendos exterius regulariter deputati sunt; circa quos ita providendum est, quod si reverenda et autentica persona suscipiatur in monasterio cum talibus licebit eis si voluerint pro caritate et exilcratione eorundem potare, dummodo non excedant in mora vel mensura potationis per quam surripiat nimia satietas aut ebrietas, quae maximè contraria est viris religiosis, &c. &c. With other rules of sobriety and moderation.
For the anniversary.
Ad pytanciam faciendam annuatim conventui, &c. in die Sancti Nicholai cujus capella contiguam camerae suae construxit et dedicati procuravit. Et pariter ad pascendos quingentos paup'es eodem die in cur. Dun. quorum cc sint mulieres, quae pascantur extra curiam. Item ad unum capellanum divina in perpetuum celebraturum in capella supra portam, sp'aliter per omnia dicti Bertrami prioris, et omnium monachor. Dun. obeuntium cum
Placebo, Dirige, et Commendatione,
xx
i sol. Et comedet in aula sicut alius capellanus celebrans pro anima magistri Hen. de Melsonby.—Item assignavit duas marc. et dimid. ut qualibet die Ven'is per annum vij scholares literati et intelligentes et provectae aetatis canant psalteria sua in capella supra portam, sup. quos ha'eat curam capellanus qui pro t'pore celebraverit pro dicto priore et monachis ut distincte cantent et compleant. Addito hoc quod omnibus diebus Ven'is in quadragessima erunt xiij qui recipient singulos den. et h'ebunt corrodia in aula dictis diebus cum prebendarijs, &c.
. Against this contract our prior appealed, alledging, that he and his convent were at all times ready to obey the pope in things lawful and practicable; but to spoil their churches of their goods, to subvert their liberties, and straiten their maintenance, would be such an indignity to the church, scandal to the clergy, and reproach to religion itself, that they never could assent thereto. It cannot be doubted but this reply would prove offensive, as well to the See of Rome as the crown of England; and in 1258 we see the prior resigning his dignity, though the historians of that time do not immediately express it to be in consequence of such displeasure. On the 17th of the calends of August the prior petitioned the convent to admit of his resignation, and that they would provide a maintenance for his retirement, alledging at once his want of constitutional abilities to execute the duties of his high office, and also the services he had undergone in forty years monastic life, fourteen of which he had been prior; he asserted, he had obtained a bull for his dismission, but would not use its authority. Messengers were accordingly sent to the bishop with his requisition, who in return commanded his commissioners to hear the allegations, and they by virtue of their authority admitted the same, and committed the care of the spiritualties of the monastery to the sub-prior, and the temporalties to R. de Waltham, constable of the castle. The convent assigned to Bertram for his maintenance, the churches of Pittington, Heighington, &c. Notwithstanding the great work he had carried on in the church for two years, he left to his successor in the conventual treasury 11,000 marks. He was not only a zealous churchman, giving up his life to acts of piety, but also a punctual maintainer of the rights of the monastery. He left to the monastic library many of his compositions and learned works. His name was held in pious veneration by the cloister. His frugality was manifested in his management of the revenue allotted him, for therewith he not only supplied the necessities of life, but was enabled to build at Beaurepaire a lodge or summer retreat, with a chapel, not inferior in elegance to other erections of the like nature in the diocese.
HUGH DE DERLYNGTON,
superior of the convent, in the same year Bertram resigned, was elected prior
MS. B. iv. 26. D. et Cap.
1265.—An'o gr'e Mo .CCo .LXo . quinto, ordinavit et assignavit d'nus Hugo prior Dun. de volantate et assensu conventus quinq. marc. argenti ad faciendma pytaneiam conventui in die anniversarij ejus, et alias v. mare. ad comparanct. species ad opus corundem inperpetuum: Quas quidem x marc. custodes commune annuatim percipient per manum bursarij Dun. de terra de Herdewyke quam idem prior comparavit.— Item ad pascend. M pauperes in die anniversarij sui. Similiter de voluntate et assensu conventus assignavit quinquaginta fol. argenti annua
im in perpetuum percipiendos per manum bursarij Dunelm. de ecclesia de Ealingtona tempore suo adquisita, &c.
, and possessed that dignity until the 8th day of January, 1272, when he thought proper to abdicate the office, alledging his infirmities
Rob. de Graystanes—Wharton's Angl. Sac. p. 741.
. During the wars of the barons, he conducted himself so prudently, as to save the possessions of the church from depredations by either party. He contributed greatly to the magnificence of his convent. He built the belfry on the summit of the great tower of the cathedral church, and enlarged the organ: He also emparked Muggleswick and Beaurepaire. At Wardelau, as one author writes, he erected a lodge or camera, a hall and chapel, which were afterwards destroyed by the Scots in their incursion: He built a lodge or camera at Muggleswick; the remains of which, and also that at Beaurepaire, will be described in the progress of this work
Ibid. p. 741.
. In this prior's time, a bull was obtained from the pope for the appropriation of Hoveden church for an addition of sixteen monks; but, at a considerable expence, he procured the appointment to be converted into prebends, apprehending they would prove as honourable and advantageous promotions, and as acceptable to the clergy whom he wished to serve, as if the original institution was maintained. This prior was distinguished for his hospitality and charitable actions: Whenever he came to his house, the poor people, to whom his kitchen was ever open, danced before him: P
im the scriptures were fulfilled, in cloathing the naked and feeding the hungry. It is said of him, that the common coinage of a denarius or penny was reduced to five mites, that he might distribute handfuls of that small money to a greater number of objects. When advanced in years, and obliged to travel in a chariot, he constantly threw money from thence to the poor. He was a person of approved wisdom, as well as of a magnificent mind. Frequent applications were made to the bishop to receive his resignation, pleading his infirmities and age, which in the event produced an altercation between the convent and prelate concerning profession of obedience by the monks
MSS. B. iv. p. 24. D & Chap. Lib.
Folio quarto inscribitur haec formula professionis quae a monachis Dunelm, religionem ingredientibus fieri solebat: "Ego frater N. presbyter vel diaconus promitto stabilitatem meam et conversionem morum meorum et obedientiam secundum regulam S'ci Benedicti coram Deo et sanctis ejus in hoc monasterio, quod est constructum in honorem Sanctae Mariae semper Virginis et Sancti Cuthberti praesulis in praesentia D'ni. Amen."
, the convent alledging their prior was not of the same rank with others, he having the privileges of an abbot, and the monk's profession was the right of an abbot. But at length the convent agreed, that the monks should first make profession to the prior and then to the prelate, and receive his solemn benediction: Whereupon they sent messengers to the bishop, that they were willing to make their profession and receive his benediction; but the business was still delayed, on account of some formalities which remained unsettled, until the 10th of January, when the bishop in the chapter-house accepted the prior's resignation, and the manors of Wardelau (according to our author's words) and Muggleswick were assigned for his maintenance; the bishop added Ryton thereto. These affairs being settled, a conversation took place between one of the monks and the bishop, in which the bishop complained with warmth that "he had suffered greater indignity and disrespect than any of his predecessors;" but declared, "he would seek satisfaction in God's good time." He had scarce departed the gates before his senescal, with the constable of the castle and their officers, entered the convent, pronouncing, that they came at the prelate's command, in his place, to have custody of the house during the vacancy of the office of prior. The next day the senescal, calling the sub-prior and other officers of the houshold into the hall, commanded the porters, the marshal, and other secular servants of the monastery, to come forth, saying, the house was in the custody of the lord bishop, therefore he desired to see who were proper to take care of it, that he might take their oaths of fidelity, remove those he did not approve, and substitute others in their places. He was answered, such proceedings were altogether unprecedented; and it was with difficulty he was persuaded to wait till
next day, to give the convent time to consult the bishop thereon. Two of
ethren were sent without delay to the bishop, with a petition for licence to elect a prior; on perusing which, he rejected it, not being addressed to him as supreme lord and patron; alledging, if he was not patron, they were under no necessity to seek a licence. When the monks said the instrument was in the usual form, he contradicted them, asserting, that after the death of prior Thomas, his predecessor bishop Farnham for the same cause rejected the conventual petition. On the return of the messengers, many of the convent recollected that the cause of such precedented rejection was not as alledged by the bishop; for in the instrument referred to, the bishop was addressed as father and patron in spiritualties and temporalties, but the seal of the convent by accident had been separated from the instrument before it came to the prelate's hands, which occasioned it to be renewed before he granted his licence. It was accordingly set forth in the arguments on this subject, that as the bishop was in fact patron of the church, no reason appeared why he should not be addressed as such in their process; which was assented to. On the succeeding day letters were issued, in which he was stiled
Reverend father and patron:
Messengers being sent therewith, they were graciously received, and licence for the election of a prior was immediately granted; in consequence of which the bishop's officers were withdrawn from the convent.
In prior Bertram's time a bull was obtained from the See of Rome for quieting the convent in their privileges, and confirming the same, of which Walter archbishop of York granted his testimonial and certificate of inspection
Testimonium Walteri Gray archiepi Ebor. de inspectione bulloe Gregorij papoe.—Cartaur I. Eccl. Dun. p.
179.
OMNIBUS persons scriptum visuris vel audituris. Walterus, Dei gratia, archie'pus Ebor. Angliae prim
,
in
. No
i
s
as privilegium d'ni Gregorij papae priori et conventui Dunelm. ecclesiae indultum, non abolitum, non cancellatum, non in aliqua sui parte vi
atum, sed integrum et papali bulla bullatum in haec verba inspexisse:
Gregorius episcopus servus servorum Dei, dilectis silijs priori et conventui Dunelm. salutem et apostolicam benedictionem. Cum a nobis petitur, quod justum est et honestum, tam vigor aequitatis quam ordo exigit rationis, ut id per sollicitudinem officii nostri ad debitum perducatur effectum. Ea propter dilecti in d'no filij, vestris justis postulationibus grato concurrenses assensu, antiquas et rationabiles ecclesiae vestrae consuetudines hactenus approbatas, libertates quoq. ac immunitates per privilegia et indulgentias a Romanis pontisicibus, praedecessoribus nostris, ac caeteris ecclesiarum praelatis; nec non libertates et immunitates secularium exactionum a regibus, principibus et aliis Christi fidelibus eccl'iae vestrae concessas, sicut ea omnia justè et pacificè obtinetis, vobis et per vos eidem eccl'iae auctoritate apostolica confirmamus, et praesentis scripti patrocinio communimus. Nulli ergo omnino homini liceat hanc paginam nostrae confirmationis infringere, vel ei ausu temerario contraire: Siquis autem hoc attemptare praesumpserit, indignationem omnipotentis Dei, et beatorum Petri et Pauli apostolorum ejus se noverit incursurum. Dat. Lateran. undecimo kal. Decembr. pontificatus nostri anno tertio decimo.
(1239.)
Nos igitur in signum et memoriam sempiternam inspectionis hujusmodi presenti scripto apponi secimus signum nostrum. Salvis in omnibus auctoritate, jure et possessione Ebor. eccl'iae in praemissis et quolibet praemissor. Ita quod per nostri appositionem sigilli novum aliquid dictis priori et conventui, seu Dunelm. eccl'iae non accrescal, et jus nostrum, successorum nostrorum, seu Ebor. eccl'iae quantum ad possessionem vel quasi, seu proprietatem, quantum ad ea vel ipsorum aliquod, nequaquam pereat seu etiam in aliquo minuatur. Dat. apud Burton, decimo sexto kal. Novembris, pontificatus nostri anno tricesimo octavo (1254.)
. In prior Hugh's time, the same archbishop certified the pensions due from the churches belonging to the priory lying within the diocese of York; which was afterwards confirmed by archbishop Nevill
Pensiones ecclesiarum prioratui de Dunelm. de Howdenshir et Alvertonshir.
Universis Christi fidelibus ad quos praesens scriptum pervenerit, Walterus Dei gratia, archie'pus Eborum, &c. piam religionis observantiam et laudabilem vitae conversationem cum hospitalitatis gratia in dilectis siliis priore et conventu Dunolm. praecipuè clarere prospicientes quorum etiam devotionem approbantes et merita attendentes, simulq. paci et tranquillitati eorum proficere cupientes, debitas et antiquas pensiones, quas de eccl'ijs ad donationem eorum spectantibus in dioc. nostra percipere consueverunt, eisdem pia confideratione concedimus et auctoritate pontificali confirmamus, videlicet.
De ecclesia de Rougeton iij marc.
De ecclesia de Kirkeby Siggeston x marc.
De ecclesia S. Petri parvi in Ebor. 1 marc.
De ecclesia omn. Sanctor. in Ebor. et Holteby, med. de una et med. de altera L
s.
De ecclesia de Skypewyth 1 marc.
De ecclesia de Hemingburgh v marc.
De ecclesia de Brantingham cum capel. de Blaketost x marc.
De ecclesia de Wolleton iij marc.
De ecclesia de Walkyngton v marc.
De ecclesia de Normanton ij marc.
Quod ut ra
um sore et stabile inposterum perseveretur presenti scripto nostri munimine sigilli consignat
confirma
dum duximus et corroborandum, hijs testibus, &c.
D'nus Alexander Nevylle
Alexander Nevill elected archbishop of York 30th May 1374, and succeeded by Thomas Arundel 3d April 1388.
archiepiscopus Eborum omnia antedicta sigillo suo confirmavit, et ecclesiam de H
yngburgh in quinq. marcis consirmavit.
Vitera
Wickwa
.
archie'pi ad Hugonem de Eversham cardinal sup negotio visitatioris eccl'iae Dun quae ita incipit
Tanner's Biblioth. p 418.
.
Exurge, Pater dilectissime, Ebor. eccl'iae grata proles, exurge in adjuto
m. hujus matris, quam mutilare inspicitis, et jure suo contra obedien
ia debitum a subditis apostatantib. defraudari. Et licet, pater, primaria forsan vobis Dun. eccl'ia monstraverit alimenta, ac sic ei naturaliter teneamini▪ quod fatemur; eccl'iae tamen Ebor. cui sacramento estis vinculo alligati, vos structius attendimus obligatos.
Hugo suit procurator archie'pi in curia Romana ao 1280, et obiit Romae ao 1287.
. About the year 1254 the archbishop made an order, at a visitation held at York, touching the holy vestments and other church furniture and ornaments. As the various particulars of this constitution give a light to the customs of the church, and discover the manner and circumstances of religious exercises, some of them merit notice in this place.
That the habits of the clergy should be provided at the charge of each respective parish, and be rich in proportion to the wealth of the inhabitants: That they should be provided with a cross for processions, and another lesser one for the use of funerals: That they should have a bier for the corpse, a vessel for holy water, an
osculatorium
or a picture (probably of our Saviour or the holy Virgin) for the people to kiss, a candlestick for the paschal taper, an incense pot, a lanthorn, with a small bell, to use when the host was carried to the sick: A veil to skreen the altar from sight during Lent; with two candlesticks
pro ceroserariis,
that is, for those that lighted up the tapers, and carried them from one part of the church to another, which was the business of the acolyte. Among the books for divine service the following were to be provided:
Legenda
The lives of the saints read on holidays.
,
Antiphonare
Hymns and alternate psalms sung.
,
Gradale
A book for singing mass.
,
Psalterium, Troparium
Rubric book directing the order of divine service.
,
Ordinale
Hymns of exultation and rejoicing.
,
Missale et Manuale.
The parish was to provide an altar-piece for the great altar, three surplices, a decent pix for the host, a banner for Rogation-days, bells and ropes; a baptismal font, with a lock to it; a chrysmatory, or vessel for keeping the holy oil used in baptism and confirmation. They were likewise to provide images, particularly a principal figure to the chancel, which was to represent the saint in honour of whose memory the church was consecrated
Annales Monast. Burton, p. 310.—Mezeray's Hist. France. Collyer, p. 456.
.
RICHARD CLAXTON,
prior of the cell of Holy Island, was elected prior of Durham on the 26th of Jan. 1273, and in the 12th of the pontificate of bishop Stichill; on the second day following he was confirmed at Darlington, was installed by the archdeacon of Durham on the day of the purification of the Virgin Mary, and three days afterwards confirmed the provision made for his predecessor on his resignation. Before the above instance, we are not told by any historian of the priors having the solemnities of confirmation and installation, though it is probable it was an ancient usage here. The prior abdicated his office on the 27th of December, 1285: No reason is assigned by our author for this act, who tells us, that the prior was not only a man of great piety and hospitality, but of strict circumspection and attention touching the rights of the monastery; and notwithstanding the great provision made for prior Hugh, and the expensive litigations prosecuted between the archbishop of York and his church, the convent abounded in wealth during his whole administration. He had assigned him for maintenance the cell of Weremouth, with the tithes of Southwick. In May, 1274, pope Gregory IV. held a council at Lyons, to which the prior was called, but did not attend, having only his proctors there: Bishop Stichill dying in that year, the archbishop during the vacancy of the See appointed a visitation to be held in the chapter-house at Durham the day before the vigil of All-Saints, which was submitted to at that time; after which ceremony the archbishop repaired to the castle, where he was entertained, Henry de Horncastre, then sacrist of the cathedral church of Durham, bearing the crucifix before him
Rob. de Graystanes — Wharton's Angl. Sac. p. 742, 743, 788.
. Robert de Graystanes gives an instance of the authority of the prior, which shews one of the ancient customs of the monastery, viz.
That bishop Stichill, whilst he was resident in the castle at Durham, made it his custom to send wine to the convent: One day he ordered his butler to carry wine to the sub-prior's table, which on being presented gave offence to prior Hugh, who presided at the upper table, and thereupon he struck the table, and put an end to dinner in the middle of the mess
Ibid. p. 746, 747.
.
Bishop Robert de Insula, who succeeded to the See, gave to the prior and convent the advowson of the church of Meldon in his diocese, accepting in exchange the sole presentation to the church of Waldenestow, in the diocese of Lincoln, to which the prior and convent had an alternate right with him: He also granted them Freewarren in Billingham, with the woods there. On prior Claxton's resignation,
HUGH OF DERLYNGTON
was recalled to that dignity on the 11th of January, 1285; was confirmed by the bishop on the 31st of the same month, and installed on the 7th day of February following
Ibid. p. 748.
. He continued a short time in office under this second election, his last resignation taking place on the 11th of March, 1290, or according to Graystanes 1289
Ibid.
. That author tells us, the prior came to an agreement with the archbishop of York, assenting to his exercise of jurisdiction over the churches of the diocese during a vacancy of the See of Durham, as appears by an instrument in writing, dated in the year 1286, on which all preceding censures and judicial sentences touching that matter were rescinded. He says, the prior before his second abdication was in a superannuated state of mind, yet so obstinate and resentful, that when application was made for his removal on account of his incapacity, he sent messengers to the bishop, with a promise of large bribes, to induce him to deny his suspension, which did not prevail; whereupon he yielded with great reluctance to a cession of his office.
RICHARD DE HOTOUN
, prior of the cell of Lynche or Latham, was elected on the 24th of March to succeed Hugh of Derlyngton; was confirmed by the bishop on the 28th of the same month, and installed on the 9th of April. This prior was of a bold and virtuous mind, and having to do with the overbearing and proud prelate Bek, was obliged to exert himself for the preservation of the privileges of his church: A dispute soon arose between them, which was fermented to a violent height, as has already been related in the annals of that prelate
Vol. i. p. 244.
; the excommunication, suspension, and interdiction of the prior being at length the consequence of their contest. The bishop thereupon commanded the convent to elect a prior; and they not obeying, he obtruded upon them Henry de Luceby, who then presided in the cell of Holy Island: He was accordingly installed, on prior Richard being dragged from his seat by the violent hands of a monk devoted to the bishop. Graystanes tells us, that a savage from the wilds of Tyndale was brought into the church to do this act; but bei
struck with awe, he retired from the presence of the man, and declared no go
could tempt him to the outrage; yet what the barbarian abhorred, was perp
trated by one who had professed his obedience to the superior whom he assisted depose. Thus prior Hotoun was put under confinement, and Luceby govern
the convent. In this situation affairs remained some time; the prior effected h
escape into Cleveland, where he remained until the parliament assembled at Li
coln, when he presented a complaint against the prelate, and obtained recommendatory letters from the king for relief at the court of Rome. The prior bein
master of a persuasive eloquence, with much erudition, and a graceful person gained the ear of the pope, and a decree of restitution was pronounced in his favour, which was published in the church at Durham in the month of April, 130
Luceby had possession of the prior's apartments, where he retained such friends a
had courage to remain with him; in that situation they meanly descended to th
act of spoiling the vessels belonging the house, stripping off the silver ornaments and taking possession of such plate as fell under their hands; with these attempting to escape, and being opposed, they threw the valuables over the walls, and stole out by way of the hog-yard. Luceby, whilst he usurped the office, retained many of the principal men of the palatinate in his family, and lived in a splendid manner, that thereby he might win the approbation and esteem of the people; but such measures did not prevail, for many treated him with high contempt. He paid great attention to the sacred edifices; the sacristaria was his first work; he repaired the roof of the nave of the church, built the vestry room, and at a great expence procured bells, vessels, and ornaments. Graystanes says, he conducted himself in the office of prior, both at Holy Island and Durham, with such decorum, that it was the opinion of many, had he come duly to the latter dignity, a better prior
F
l. de Graystanes.—Whanton's Angl. Sac. p. 750, 788.— Prior of the cell of Lynche, &c. He was removed by
, bi
hop of this See, May 20, 1
0. for opposing his visiting the convent without permission of
, for which he was also excommunicated, suspended, and interdicted. But the
his behalf, it was agreed that he should be prior for life. However, the bishop
three months ordered the convent to elect another in his stead, and sent his
&c. He was reinstated again by decree dated 29th Nov. 1
; after
of this priory till his death, which happened in Jan. 1309.—
Stevens, p. 351.
had not been for a long time.
In the year 1303, on the day of St Peter
ad Vincula,
prior Hotoun returned to Durham, and was received most cordially by the convent, who held a festival on the occasion: An inquisition was afterwards taken by men of the county of Northumberland touching the damages sustained by the convent under the bishop's persecution, by the seizure of their revenues and destruction of their parks, in which the bishop employed the most able advocates the kingdom afforded, whilst the prior's cause was managed by one only, whose name was William de Herle, and whom Graystanes perpetuates; when the bishop was justly condemned in a large sum of money. The pope dying soon after, the bishop obtained from his successor a bull, requiring the archbishop of Canterbury and the bishops of Lincoln and Winchester to visit the chapter of Durham, on an accusation lodged against the prior for dilapidations and divers offences, touching which the prelates were commanded to enquire; but pope Benedict departing this life, the bishop's purpose was frustrated, till pope Clement, who created B
k patriarch of Jerusalem, at his suggestion suspended the prior from all administration, as well in spirituals as temporals. The prior, on his journey to Rome for redress, passed the winter near Canterbury, sending from thence two monks of his convent, as proctors: Whilst he remained there, the bishop committed the care of the monastery to Luceby; and the abbot of Leicester with the pope's mandatory letters accompanied him to Durham, to give him possession; but on their arrival, they sound the gates shut against them, and their admittance refused; on which, they pronounced an excommunication against the whole society: This brought on a litigation, at the instance of the prior, for an offence against the crown, on their presuming to execute the powers of the See of Rome in matters temporal, and a grievous sine was imposed upon the offenders.
The prior returned from the South to meet the king at Durham, and on the festival of St Oswald the martyr, celebrated mass in the royal presence at the altar of St Oswald. The king granted him licence to visit Rome, and recommendatory letters to the pope for redress, with which he passed into Italy, but did not live to return: He met with a favourable reception from the pope and college, and on the 24th of October obtained a sentence of restitution, but was decreed to pay one thousand marks to the apostolical chamber for the same. On the 9th of Jan. (Graystanes says in the year 1307, but from other authorities in 1308) the prior departed this life; and that the See of Rome might be indemnified for the loss of the fine, all his goods, plate, books, horses, and effects then in Italy, were confiscated.
Prior Hotoun was not deficient in public works, notwithstanding the troubles in which he was embarrassed: He compleated the manor-house of Houghhall; with the bishop's licence he purchased Oxford Place, afterwards called Durham College, and made the first erections there
The account we have of this foundation is, That the monks of Durham might have a receptacle set their novices in the university, as Gloucester had lately obtained before for theirs in Stockwell-street
,
begin to lay their first foundation in Canditch. We read in a certain book, intituled 'Historia Ecclesia Dunelmensis et Successio Episcoporum,' that one Hugo de Derlyngton, chosen prior of Durham A. D.
monachos misit Oxoniam ad studendum, et eis satis laute expensas ministrabut:
This the author, who was Ga
fridus, sacristan of Coldingham, and continued by one Robertus: But of the college-hall or
a
on-place therein, he maketh no mention; and therefore I will not aver, that he was the
st so under of this college.
In the next chapter, viz. 155, (Bib. Cotton, vol. ix. p. 497) speaking of Richard de Hotoun Derlyngton's successor) some time sub-prior of Lytham, and chosen prior of Dunham A. D. 1289, saith th
,
Isle prior b
cum Oxon. comparavit. et aedificare fecit:
that is, that prior (speaking of Richard de H
ton
) purchased
place at Oxford, and began there to build. This was, I suppose, about the year 1290; for I had, that thereabouts, the prior and convent of St Frideswides
Register Major S. Frideswida, p. 451.
did by their charter confirm to the monks of Durham, for ever, two plots of ground in the suburbs, in Magdalen parish, Oxon, paying yearly for the same, to them and their successors, 2s. per ann. The witnesses to this, as I find in the original charter,
being no
in the register here quoted) were, Henry Owen, mayo
; Will. de Wodeston, and Andrew Culbert, provosts; who, I find, were officers of this city about that time. Thus, from the said Anthony Wood, it is evident that this college was before Richard de Bury.
Furthermore, for the greater enlargement of their inclosure, Mabile Was
of Godstow
with the convent, about the same time willed and granted to them divers lands and tenements, and among the r
whatsoever of right they had in void ground near to Perilous-hall, in Horse
-street, part of which had stood where now Kettle-hall standeth, and belongs to Trinity College, the place where this cost
now spoken of standeth. After this, or about the same time, viz. 1291, follows the
of
other
:
l, &c. by which
Lit. Pat. 19 Edw. I. m. 20.
it appears, that here was a college or receptacle for the
of Dunham before Richard de Bury was bishop, forty three years; all which time, and till bishop Ha
ld his
these monks were maintained by the prior and convent of Durham out of the public treasury, and were sort thither, as those of Gloucester priory to Gloucester
, to be trained up in grammar, philosophy, and divinity.—
Stevens' Mon. vol. i. p. 341.
MS. Wood.
: He also built the chapel
De Belio Loco,
afterwards called Beaurepaire or Bearpark. The convent received a grant of freewarren in their territories at Winston about this time.
During this prior's office, the dispute which arose between Ralph lord Nevill, of Raby, and the convent, in the time of prior Claxton, was continued, and did not subside for several years. The account we have of it is to the following effect, as given by Dugdale in his Baronage, vol. i. p. 292.
"About the 13 Edw. I. 1285, there was much variance between the inhabitants of the bishopric of Durham and Anthony Beke (that great prelate) then bishop of Durham, by reason he had compelled them to go twice into Scotland with horse and arms, which they alledged to be contrary to right, in regard they held their lands to defend the body of St Cuthbert; and that they ought not, either for king or bishop, to go beyond the rivers of Tyne and Tees. Ralph Nevill, then lord of Raby, was the chief countenancer of those who opposed the bishop. Not long after, another dispute arose between this Ralph and Hugh de Derlyngton then prior of Durham, about the offering of a stag every year upon St Cuthbert's day in September; which (in truth) was rather a rent than an oblation, in regard he held Raby with the eight adjoining townships, by the yearly rent of four pounds and a stag. For contrary to the custom of his ancestors, he not only required, that the prior of Durham, at the offering of the stag, ought to feast him and all the company he should bring, but that the prior's own menial servants should for that time be set aside, and his peculiar servants and officers put in their stead. Whereupon amongst other of his guests he invited John de Baliol of Barnard Castle, who refused to go with him, alledging, that he never knew the Nevills to have such a privilege there; Sir Wm de Brompton, the bishop's chief-justice, likewise acknowledging, that he himself was the first who began that extravagant practice; for being a young man, and delighting in hunting, he came with the lord Nevill at the offering of the stag, and said to his companions, "Come let us go into the abbey and wind our horns," and so they did. The prior farther adding, that before the time of this Ralph, none of his predecessors ever made any such claim, but when they brought the stag into the hall they had only a breakfast; nor did the lord himself ever stay dinner, except he was invited.
In the 5 Edw. III. 1331, Ralph Nevill (son of the former) doing his fealty to William de Couton then prior of Durham, upon Lammas-day, for the manor of Raby, he told him he would offer the stag as his ancestors had done; saving that, whereas his father required, that the prior's servants should be set aside at that time, and his own serve in their stead; he would be content, that his should attend together with those of the prior: And whereas his father insisted, that his servants should only be admitted at dinner; he stood upon it, that his should be there entertained the whole day, and likewise the morrow at breakfast.
Whereunto the prior made answer, that none of his ancestors were ever so admitted, and that he would rather quit the stag, than suffer any new custom to the prejudice of the church. But to this Ralph replied, that he would perform the whole service or none, and put the trial of his right upon the country. The prior, therefore, knowing him to be so powerful, and that the country durst not displease him, declined the offer. However, at length to gain his favour, (in regard he had no small interest at court, and might do him a kindness or a displeasure) was content for that one time he should perform it as he pleased, so that it might not be drawn into example afterwards; and for that purpose proposed, that indentures should be made between them.
Whereupon the Lord, Nevill brought but few with him, and those more for the honour of the prior than a burthen, and so shortly after dinner took his leave, but left one of his servants to lodge there all night, and to take his breakfast there on the next day; protesting, that being both a son and tenant to the church, he would not be burthensome to it, in respect it would be no advantage to himself, but might much damnify it, if he should bring with him as great a train as he would, saying,
What doth a breakfast signify to me? Nothing.
And likewise, that if the prior would shew, that he had no right to what he so claimed, he would freely recede therefrom; and if he had a right, he would accept of a composition for it, rather than be burthensome to the convent; but if they should put him to get his right by law, then he would not abate any thing thereof.
Whereupon enquiry being made amongst the oldest monks of the house, they affirmed, that being of eight years standing when his father was before repulsed, they had often seen the stag offered, and that he never staid dinner but when the prior invited him; and some ancient men of the country testified as much; as also, that as soon as the stag was brought, they carried him to the kitchen, and those who brought him were taken into the hall to breakfast, as they that brought their rents used to be.
Moreover, when it happened that any of the lords Nevill were desired to stay dinner with the prior, his cook was admitted into the kitchen to prepare a dish for him; so likewise another servant in the cellar to chuse his drink, and in like manner some other at the gate, who knew his servants and followers, merely to let them in, and keep others out, who, under pretence of being his servants, might then intrude; but this was only done by the prior out of courtesy and respect, and not at all of right.
Hereupon Henry le Scrope, one of the justices, affirmed, that he had been of counsel with Ralph Nevill (father of this Ralph) when he brought his writ of
Novell Disseisin
against the prior; and told him that he had no right at all: Whereupon Ralph let fall his suit.
Some said, that making this claim out of his own see, he ought there, (viz. in the priory) to shew some special evidence to assert his claim. Others, that as the prior did challenge nothing of him, but what was reserved by the grant; so could not he, unless he shewed a charter for it. And besides, claiming to be entertained with as many as he should bring, and not specifying the number, there could be no lawful reason for it; because the stag was always offered on Holy Rood day, whereupon grew an old song in rhyme, as a lamentation for Robert de Nevill, his great grandfather.
Wel I wa, sal ys Hornes blaw
Holy Rode this Day;
Nou es he dede, and lies law
Was wont to blaw tham ay.
Moreover, it was further said, that it never had been the custom of the prior to make a feast on that day, when the servants of so great a person was to offer; and that the prior usually on St Cuthbert's day had wont to dine with the bishop at some of his own manor-houses; therefore, who should compel him to make a feast at home? Likewise, that those lands were given to the ancestors of this lord Nevill, when they were not such great men as to have a marshal, a butler, and other servants of state; for in those days, they had no more than Raby with its appurtenances, which was not then of so much worth as it is now; for Brancepeth and Raskelfe came to them since by marriage; as also other lands in Yorkshire and Richmondshire: Therefore it could not be thought that the prior of Durham did give lands of such value, and purchase the service to be done for them at so high a rate, especially considering, that in the prior's land book, not only all the services are exactly registered, but whatsoever others ought to receive of him. And lastly, that there is not so much as mention made of this service in any of their chronicles."
During the vacancy of the priory, the bishop seized the temporalties of the convent, and by Stephen Mauley (de Malo-lacu) his vicar-general, displaced the subprior, the priors of the cells, and many who were adherents of the deceased prior, appointing others in their places: The prior of Coldingham alone was continued in his office. This Graystanes exclaims against as a flagrant breach of the privileges of the convent, though the bishop alledged the members of the house were not capable of holding offices, by reason of the sentence of excommunication, which remained unpurged. In this period much perplexity arose touching presentations to vacant churches, till it was determined they should be made jointly, under the title of
Anthony bishop of Durham and the convent of Durham, the office of prior being vacant.
In the year 1308, on the morrow of the Purification, the bishop visited the chapter in the order prescribed by pope Boniface, when, for no other irregularity or offence than their attachment to the prior in his struggles against the prelate's oppressions, he suspended the following members of the society for ten years:— Richard de Aslakby, who was sub-prior in prior Hotoun's time; Galfridus de Burdon, prior of Finchale; and Nicholas de Rothbury, almoner of Durham. But archbishop Greenfield, in his visitation during the vacancy of the See, after the prelate's death, annulled the sentence
Rob. de Graystanes.—Wharton's Angl. Sac. p. 753, 754, 788.
.
The king, jointly with the patriarch, applied to the pope in favour of
WILLIAM DE TANFIELD,
then prior of Wederhall, and he was accordingly appointed Hotoun's successor on the 24th of February, 1308: In this act we have a flagrant instance of the corruption of the holy See; for the price of his collation was not less than 3000 marks to the pontiff, and 1000 to the cardinals. He was installed on the feast of St Cuthbert in September following, many of the nobility with several prelates being present at the ceremony.
Under the oppressive spirit of the prelate, the priory suffered greatly; being not only much impoverished by the expences incurred, and heavy debt contracted on account of their litigations with him; but also greatly embarrassed and distressed by the defection of the prior of Coldingham, who renounced his obedience and subjection to the monastery: The prior of Durham visited that convent, and displaced the prior for his offence, appointing another in his room: After having received the homage and fealty of the terr-tenants of the shrine, he followed the deposed prior to Stamford, whither he hastened to lay his complaint before the parliament, hoping the king and his ministers would support him against his superior, as he was personally known to them, having carried the banner of St Cuthbert in the Scotch war; but in this was disappointed, for the countenance of the court was denied to such injurious proceedings.
The prior of Durham obtained permission to visit Rome, where he staid till the prelate's death. On the accession of bishop Kellow, the convent experienced a happy change of circumstances, and received repeated marks of that prelate's countenance and favour; he reversed all the oppressive acts of his predecessor, and restored the ancient privileges of the monastery, especially in the material point, that during the vacancy of the priory, none save the sub-prior and chapter should intermeddle with the spiritualties or temporalties of the convent; the bishop retaining to the See the right of having one clerk in the house as a nominal guardian thereof, with three horses and three servants, without claiming to have any further concern with the goods of the house. By the gift of this prelate, the convent had Wastrophead, with a fishery in the river Were.
In the year 1313
R. de Graystanes.—Wharton's Angl. Sac. p. 755, &c.—Grey's MSS.
, the prior finding his health decline, and the attacks of old age hasten upon him, resigned his office, and had allotted for maintenance the cell of Jarrow and the manor of Wardle
It is difficult to ascertain what place this was; it is wrote different from the
Wardlau
and
Wardlawe
before noted: Probably it is
Wardale
near Jarrow, at this day part of the prebendal corps land of this church.
; he lived in retirement until the month of February, 1342, when he departed this life: He is described to us as a man of good stature, a graceful countenance, and pleasing carriage; lavish and diffusive, he was remarked to be improvident of his resources, delighting in a numerous retinue, repeated and splendid feasts. We hear of no public works by this prior; and, indeed, under the unhappy circumstances in which he was involved during the patriarchs time, together with his own expensive mode of life, we cannot wonder at the neglect
Obligatio pr. et conventus de Lanercost prior et conventui Dun. sacta de 100l. solvend. eisd. nisi secerint quamcunq. securitat, quam dicti prior. et conv. Dun. duxerint ordinand. super ecclesia de Meldon postquam dicti pr. et conv. de Lanercost, adepti fuerint possessionem ecclesiae de Mitsord.—
E. Cartuar. II. eccl. Dun. p. 38.
Pateat universis quod nos Hen. pr. de Lanercost et ejusdem loci conventus Karl dioc. per licitam stipulaco'em si
el'r promittimus quod obtenta possessione eccl'iae de Mitteford nobis in proprios usus concessie religiosis viris d'nis pr. et conventui eccl'iae Dun. faciemus quamcunq. securitatem et immunitatem, duxerunt ordinand. super eccl'ia sua de Meldon quatenus de jure, possumus et debemus alioquin fatemur nos eisd. religiosis viris pr. scil. et conventui Dun. teneri et acrius obligari nomine damnor. interesse et expensar. in cc. libris sterlingor. solvend. eisd. apud Dun. infra duos menses a tempore, quo seceremus in possessione pacifica eccl'iae de Mitleford p'd'cae et nihilominus in cc. libris argenti in subsidium terrae sanctae solvend. In cujus rei testimon. sigillum commune capituli nostri presentibus duximus apponendum. Datis apud Lanercost, xij kal. Octob. anno D'ni mill'imo trecentesimo decimo.—
Randal's MSS.
.
Licence in a short time being obtained for electing a prior,
GALFRID DE BURDON,
then sub-prior of the convent, was placed in the chair, about the time of the festival of Peter and Paul, 1313, and soon afterwards received confirmation, and was installed: In 1316
Graystanes says, in the octav. of St John Bap. 1315.
, he had the mortification to have his sweet country retreat at Beaurepaire, which was embellished with every ornament known to the taste of those times, pillaged and defaced by a party of marauding Scots. He is spoken of by ancient authors in the most honourable manner: Graystanes remarks of him, as a special singularity,
Viros diligens habere in familia et non pueros, equos pro vectura et non equulos:
This prompts disagreeable conjectures touching a monastic life, on which an inference arises, that the custom of entertaining boys had grown scandalous; or otherwise the historian, a monk of that church, would not have marked that part of the prior's character with the eulogium,
Iste in familia erat honorificus, viros diligens,
&c. &c. Singularity of character, even in the exercise of virtue, occasions enmity; for the reformation of any vice is a public reproach to those immersed in the practice of it: The prior, with all his good qualities, was the object of much wrath; he was accused with virulence at bishop Beaumont's visitation, and many misdemeanors were laid to his charge by his brethren
Wharton, p. 758.
, which induced him to resign his important office on the 25th of January, 1322; he having the cell of Weremouth, with the tithes of Weremouth and Fulwell, assigned for maintenance: Graystanes says, that though he had good grounds for defence, he was induced to submit, rather than involve the house in litigation and expence
Ibid. p. 759.
. Soon after this resignation,
WILLIAM DE GUISBURN
was elected prior, a man equally esteemed for his learning and religious life; but on the following Lord's-day, when every one expected he should receive confirmation of the holy office, he entered the chapter-house, and renounced his election
Rob. de Graystanes.—Wharton, p. 759.— Grey's MS. Notes.
: Whereupon the chapter proceeded to a new election, and
WILLIAM DE COUTON
was chosen prior; he soon afterwards received confirmation, and was solemnly installed on Holy-rood-day: Graystanes says
Wharton, p. 759.
, he was
Vir utique Deo et hominibus amabilis.
In this prior's time, a disagreeable controversy was determined, touching a claim made by Goldesburgh, archdeacon of Durham, of jurisdiction in right of his office over the churches appertaining to the monastery lying between Tyne and Tees: It had been usual for the archdeacon
Ibid.
to exercise archidiaconal jurisdiction in the name of the prior in the churches of the convent, by virtue of an agreement made between them, for which an annual sum was paid as an acknowledgment; on Goldesburgh's refusing payment of the composition money, and persisting in the exercise of jurisdiction, the dispute arose; by compromise it was settled, that the prior should enjoy archidiaconal jurisdiction in the churches of Jarrow and Weremouth, and Goldesburgh throughout the rest for life. The convent had a dispute of the like nature with the archdeacon of Northumberland, which was compromised in the year 1331 on the like terms; but on his death, new disturbances arose, and his successor claimed the like privilege.
A mortality raged among the horned cattle, and made a dreadful havoc during this prior's time. After presiding nineteen years, he departed this life at Pittington, on the 26th day of February, 1342, and was buried in the cemetery-yard of the cathedral church among his predecessors
Graystanes.—Wharton, p. 767.
. It appears he was a monk of the abbey of Fountains
Ibid. p. 788.
. His memory was much revered in his monastery; for with a truly pious life, he displayed much benignity of heart, in a humble carriage towards his brethren, which softened the rigours of the cell, and rendered the cloister cheerful: To strangers, and those received at his table, he appeared easy of access, and pleasant in conversation; always affording a liberal, or rather magnificent entertainment: Religion fixed its genuine impression on his countenance, benevolence in smiles. He was succeeded by
JOHN FOSSOUR,
formerly a monk of Durham, and prior of the monastery of Weremouth, who was elected the 16th of March, 1342, and confirmed and installed on the last day of the same month: Chambrè speaking of him, says, he was a man of much wisdom, with a prevailing eloquence, so that many took the habit in his time
Chambrè.—Wharton, p. 767.— Grey's MS. Notes.
: He caused an account to be had of the goods and possessions of the monastery, for the better management and protection thereof; and appointed a burser of great providence and discretion, by whose care and assiduity, during the course of six years, 758 l. 3 s. 6 d. of the old debts of the convent were discharged, 492l. 7s. 7d. was expended out of the treasury in public works, and 209l. 5s. 3d. in contributions: He caused all the missals of the church to be removed, one of which, lying at the altar of St Nicholas and St Giles, cost him 22 l. At the north end of the middle transept of the cathedral church, he made a large window of six lights, with three lesser windows, near the altar of St Nicholas and St Giles, which was the third and last altar in that aile to the north, in the masonry of which he expended 100 l. and 25 l. in glazing. Stevens seems to confound Chambrè's account
Vol. i. p. 35
.
; and the great window made by our prior is named twice, saying, he made another large and sumptuous window of six lights, whereas on a view of the church the error is easily discovered. He ordained, with consent of the chapter, that a daily mass should be said for his soul at the abovementioned altar by one monk, for whose pension, with the maintenance of the windows, and for provision for his anniversary, he appropriated lands to the convent. He provided a rich vestment with three copes, for the ceremonies of his anniversary. He instituted a chantry at the aforesaid altar, which was called
the chantry of the Holy Trinity,
for the celebration of divine service for ever; and under the bishop's licence purchased lands in North Pittington, Wolviston, and Billingham for its endowment, for which he expended 66l. 10s. 9d. and for the erection thereof 20l.
Chambrè.—Wharton's Angl. Sac. p. 768.
He gave for the use of the altar a chalice of the value of 6l. 13s. 4d. with three
albes chasubles
and palls; also images in alabaster of the holy Trinity and blessed Virgin, with tabernacles and other ornaments, of the price of 22l. He expended in other edifices and ornaments about the church 402l. 6s. 8d. and made a window at the south end of the common hall, which cost him 40l. In his time many reparations and new works were made, as well within the church as without, particularly in the kiln
Torrale.—Chambrè.—Wharton, p. 768.
, granary, and kitchen, the great window of seven lights at the west end of the nave, three other windows in the north side of the nave, two on the north side of the choir by John de Tickhill, and two on the south by the feretory: Also, in this prior's time, the lord Ralph Nevill presented to the church a vestment of red velvet, and obtained permission that he and his lady Alicia should be buried within the walls of the church, which had not been granted before to a layman. John lord Nevill his son, at the instance of Richard de Birtley and John de Cornvall, then feretraries of the church, caused to be made a new work of marble and alabaster for St Cuthbert's tomb, which cost upwards of 200l. and at the prior's request, the elegant tabernacle work, which divides the feretory from the high altar, was procured, towards the expence of which lord Nevill gave 600 marks. It was made in London, and sent down by sea; but before our munificent prior could see it erected, attacked by various infirmities, he departed this life at Beaurepaire, on the 12th day of November, in the 90th year of his age, and 33d of his priorship, A. D. 1374. He was buried at the north end of the middle transept, before the altar of St Nicholas and St Giles, his tomb being covered with marble prepared in his life-time and curiously wrought
Chambrè.—Wharton's Ang. Sac. p. 768.—Stevens' Mon. vol. i. p. 352.—Grey's MS. Notes.
; Robert de Syreston, a monk of the house, well acquainted with his virtues, inscribed it with the verses
Hic prior ecclesiae praesentis, dux politiae,
Et splendor patriae, suerat lux vera sophiae, &c.
Hic centenorum fuit effector monachorum
He was the first prior interred within the walls of the church.
,
Ac vicenorum; numerus fit tantus eorum,
Corpore tam mundus non vixit in orbe secundus, &c.
In 1729, when the workmen were repairing the flags in that part of the church, they opened prior Fossour's grave, and found the body quite decayed, but the hides wherein it had been wrapped were tolerably fresh. These were taken away by the workmen, cut into small pieces, and distributed among the curious. A very large piece was in the possession of the late Basill Forcer, of Elvet,
esq
in the notes, as given by Browne Willis, p. 225.
In this prior's time was fought the great battle of the Red-Hills, in which David Bruce was taken prisoner. The victory was announced to the people of the city by the ecclesiastics singing a solemn hymn or
Te Deum
on the top of the steeple of the cathedral church, in consequence of a signal from the monks at Maiden Bower. This custom was continued on the anniversary, till the times of general confusion in the 16th century. The restoration of king Charles was a matter of such great joy to this church, that the ceremony was revived on the 29th of May, on which day it is still annually performed. This prior had licence in 1344 to purchase lands in Monketon and Monkhesleton
Vid. Ann. bishop Bury, vol. i. p. 296.—Rot. Bury, sch. 18.
; and certain articles of agreement between the bishop and the convent were ratified whilst he presided
E rotu
is Ric'i Bury e'pi in cancellar. Dunelm. sched. xvij. anno undecimo.
RIC'US, Dei gra. &c. vic. Dunelm. salutem. Cum in quadam compositione dudum inter predecessores rostros e'pos Dunelm. et predecessores nunc prioris Dunelm. inita et sirmata inter cetera contineatur, quod si aliquis liber homo de terra vel feodo prioris convictatur de felonia, vel nolit stare judicio ita q'd debeat terram amittere per feloniam, e'pus habebit terram illius in manu sua per unum annum et unum diem, et de exitibus terrae illius et catallis et vasto felonis vel felonum, in omnibus e'pus habebit unam medietatem et prior aliam medietatem per manum ballivi e'pi. Post annum vero et diem elapsum prior vel capitalis d'nus d'ei felonis habebit dictam terram tanquam escaetam suam et omnia amerciamenta et prosicua de placitis corone provenientia et de assisis, et omnibus alijs placitis quae terminabuntur per judicium vel finem vel concordiam in curia e'pi de terra vel de feodo prioris dimidiabuntur sine difficultate et dilatione inter episcopum et priorem, pront in compositione predicta plenius continctur. Nos compositionem volentes inviolabiliter observari tibi precipimus, &c. Dat. Dunelm. per manum Roberti de Calne clerici nostri octavo die Decembris, anno supradicto (1344). Per literam domini ipsius episcopi.—
Randal's MSS.
Md. quod die Jovis proxima ante festum Sancti Ambrosii (A. D. 1350) Joh'nes de Thorppton executor, testamenti mag'ri Gill'i de Midilton deliberavit d'no Rob'to de Bamburgh, unam aquietanciam de arreragiis cujusdam annue pensionis dicto mag'ro Gill'o debit. per priorem Dunolm. in cuj. resignacione et deliberacione acquietancie fuerunt presentes d'n's Joh'nes prior eccl'iae Dunolm. d'n's Rob'tus de Bamburgh, d'n's Will. de Masham, terrar. et d'n's Joh'nes de Neuton Burs. monachi. Et seculares Joh'nes de Menneville, Joh'nes de Haliden, et Thomas de Salcock, et Joh'nes Abell, cl'icus.—
Bibl. Dec. & Cap. MSS. B. iv. p. 26, 86.
.
On the petition of Ralph lord Nevill for a burial place within the church, the prior and convent granted their licence for making a sepulchre on the south side of the nave, to which the conventual seal was affixed, then bearing the impression of the head of St Oswald:
Et concesserunt cis cum litera sub sigillo capitis Sancti Oswaldi
Chambrè.—Whart. Ang. Sac. p. 768.
. This was thought the most proper place to present to the reader the drawing of that seal, where it is so indisputably authenticated. The cross side or reverse is remaining at present in the dean and chapter's library, from whence Mr Allan took several impressions in wax, but the head side is lost
Adeo celebris erat crux illa S. Osualdi, ut conventus Dunelm. olim ea in sigillo suo utebatur. Ex una enim istius parte, caput S. Osualdi, et crux ejus ex altera exhibebatur, &c. —
Appendix, No 13, Smith's Life of Bede.
.
Application was made to the See of Rome by king Edward III. that the church of Hemingburg in Yorkshire should be appropriated to this church, which the pope in the year 1372 refused, because of the populousness and other excesses thereof. The epistle of pope Gregory II.
Rymer, tom. vi. p. 759.
shews the state of the monastery at that time. The king's letter prayed the appropriation to be made
propter necessitates eis incumbentes;
to which the pope replied, he was informed the religious body consisted of 150 persons, with four dependent abbies, where priors had been instituted; besides which they held, appendent to the monastery, thirteen parish churches, and to many others they had the right of collation: That, by reason of their opulence, they were guilty of great enormities; when they travelled, they were each attended by three or four horsemen, and made an appearance inconsistent with religious humility; and that in their expences, as well in provision for their table as apparel and other ordinary matters, they were guilty of great excess.
ROBERT DE WALWORTH
, alias Benington, alias Berrington, succeeded to the office of prior, he being elected on the 11th of December 1374, and confirmed on the 24th of the same month. The elegant work which his predecessor Fossour and lord John Nevill gave to this church, this prior was at the expence of erecting, employing therein seven artists near a year. In the year 1380 the high altar was compleated and solemnly dedicated to the holy Virgin, St Oswald the royal martyr, and St Cuthbert, the whole convent appearing in procession and assisting at the ceremony
Chambre.—Whart. Angl. Sac. p. 769, 788.
.
The convent was greatly enriched by him: In 1378 he obtained licence to purchase lands
Rot. Hatfield, sch. 4, No 6.
, and in 1379 received a charter of confirmation of various purchases made in Wolviston, Billingham, Great Burdon, Aycliff, Fery, Monkhesildon, Edmundbyers, Durham, Hett, Heburn, Spennyngmore, Rayley, Aldernage, Elvet in Durham, and the old borough of Durham
Ibid. sch. 2, No 3, dated April 28, 1379.
. In 1380 he had confirmation of the exchange of Henknowl for lands in Wolviston, made with John de Belasys
Ibid. Sched.
. In the same year a licence was procured for the purchase of other lands, of the annual value of 200 marks, for the maintenance of eight monks, and eight secular scholars to study in Durham college, Oxford
Thomas Dei gra. e'pus, &c. O'ib's, &c. sciatis quod de gratia nostra speciali concessimus et licentiam dedimus, &c. dil'cis filiis n'
is in Christo priori et conventui eccl. nostrae Dunelm. quod ipsi terras tenementa et redditus cum pertinentiis ad valorem ducentarum merearum per annum, &c infra regiam nostram libertatem Dun. &c. adquirere possint. Habend. et tenend. sibi et successoribus suis in puram et perpetuam elcemosinam ad manu. tenend. et sustentand. octo monachos capellanos, et octo pauperes scholares in collegio nostro Dun. apud Oxon. per nos de novo fundato scolatizantes imperpetuum, &c. &c. Rot. B. Hatfield, sch. 2, A. D. 1
82. — Vid. Smith's Annals of Univ. Col. p. 375. — Ang. Sac. p. 772.—Chambrè.
. In 1388 another licence was granted for the purchase of lands at Helay, and lands and tenements in Gateshead Whyckham, the old bridge at Durham, Clayport, Sadlergate, the North-Bailey, Fleshhewer-Raw, Framwelgate, Pipewellgate, West and East Merrington, Aycliffe, Fery, Wolviston, Hesledon, Le Brome, North Pittington, East Rainton, Hebern, Burdon, Billingham, Edmundbyers, St Giles's or the street of St Egidius, Alertongate in Durham, the old borough of Durham, Elvet and Cocken
Rot. Fordham, sch. 10, No 13, dated May 1, 1388.
. In 1390 Wm de Scrope presented, at the feretory of St Cuthbert (in satisfaction for certain offences by him committed against the rights of the church) a jewel of the value of 50l.
Rymer, tom. vii. p. 654.—An. 13 Rich. II 1390.
This prior obtained from pope Urban VI. a bull, that he and his successors should be invested with the mitre, pastoral staff, rings, sandals, and other pontifical insignia, and was the first prior in this church authorised to use the same
Dimissio Ebor. archiepiscopi super impetitione de usu pontificalium.
UNIVERSIS s. matris eccl'iae filijs ad quos praesentes literae pervenerint, Alexander (Nevill) permissione divina Ebor. archie'pus, Angliae primas, ac sedis apostolicae legatus, salutem in omnium salvatore. Ad nostram nuper devenit notitiam quod religiosus vir frater Robertus de Walworth, prior ecclesiae cathedralis Dunelm. cum mitra et baculo pastorali, annulo et sandalijs et aliis insignijs pontific. indutus missas et alia divina officia infra nostram dioces. Ebor. ac nostram jurisdictionem absq. auctoritate sufficiente temerè celebrare praesumpsit in nostrae jurisdictionis contemptum manifestum. Unde nos Alexander archie'pus supradictus, de auctoritate sive potestate praemissa faciendi si quae eidem priori competerent in hac parte volentes effici certiores, eundem priorem infra nostram dioces. Ebor. praedictam personaliter apprehensum ad exhibend. coram nobis privilegium sive auctoritatem et potestatem si quae habuerit in praemissis ad certos diem et locum competentes peremptoriè fecimus evocari. Quibus die et loco praefatus prior per procuratorem suum legitimè constitutum coram nobis in judicio comparens literas apostolicas sanctiss. in Christo patris et d'ni nostri d'ni Urbani divina providentia papae Sexti vera bulla plumbea isipus d'ni papae more Romanae curiae bullatas, sanas et integras, ac omni vitio et suspicione carentes, dicto priori per eundem d'm papam ad praedicta faciend. concessas nobis exhibuit et ostendit; quarum tenor est talis,
Urbanus episcopus servus servorum Dei dilectis filijs Roberto priori et capitulo ecclesiae Dun. ordinis S. Benedicti salutem et apostolicam benedictionem exposcit vestrae devotionis sinceritas et religionis promeretur honestas, ut tam vos, quos speciali dilectione prosequimur, quam etiam ecclesiam vestram dignis honoribus et gratijs attollamus. Hinc est quod nos vestris in hac parte supplicationibus inclinati ut tu fili prior et successores tui priores dictae ecclesiae qui pro tempore fuerint, mitra, baculo pastorali, annulo et sandalijs et alijs pontific. insignijs liberè possitis uti, si et in quantum aliqui alij priores cathedralium ecclesiarum ordin. S. Benedicti in regno Angliae consistentium illis utantur. — felicis recordationis Alexandri papae quarti predecessoris nostri, quae incipit Abbates, et alijs quibuscunq. constitutionibus apostolicis in contrarium editis nequaquam obstantibus, vobis et eisdem successoribus auctoritate apostolica de speciali gratia tenore praesentium indulgemus. Nulli ergo omnino hominum liceat hanc paginam nostrae concessionis et voluntatis insringere, vel ei ausu temerario contraire. Si quis autem hoc attemptare praefumpserit. indignationem omnipotentis Dei et beator. Petri et Pauli apostolorum ejus se noverit incursurum. Dat. Romae apud S. Petrum xijo kal. Augusti, pontif. nostri ao secundo.
Quibus quidem literis apostolicis coram nobis, ut praefertur, exhibitis, et per nos diligenter inspectis, nos Alexander archiep. supradictus eidem priori ac successoribus suis dictae eccl'iae Dunelm. prioribus imperpetuum, quod ijdem priores omnes et singuli in celebrationes divinorum officiorum infra nostram provinciam Ebor. ubilibet faciendorum in nostra et successorum nostrorum quorumcunq. Ebor. archiepiscopo: Praesentia
mitris tantummodo aurifrisiatis, aureas vel argenteas laminas ac gemmas habentibus, una cum annulo, baculo pastorali et aliis pontific. insignijs supradictis,
secundum formam et tenorem privilegij eis super hoc per sedem apostolicam concessi, et prout eis videbitur licitè uti valeant absq. contradictione nostra, vel successor. nostrorum praedictorum ad requisitionem et specialem rogatum dictorum prioris et conventus, quantum in nobis est, licentiam tenore praesentium concedimus et liberam facultatem. In cujus rei testimonium sigillum nostrum secimus his apponi datis in manerio nostro de Thorp. vjo die mensis Augusti, ao D'ni 1382, et nostrae consecrat. nono—II. Reg. antiq. D. C. D. Part 2d, p. 32.
Confirmatio privilegior, de usu mitrae et baculi pastoralis priori Dunelm.
MARTINUS V. episcopus, servus servorum Dei ad perpetuam rei memoriam; idq. ad ecclesiar. praesertim cathedralium decorem et laudem gratiose concessa sunt ut amplioris obtineant roboris firmitate tum a nobis petitur nostrae solicitudinis partes libenter adhibemus eaq. favoribus prosoquimur opportunis. Exhibita siquidem nobis nuper pro parte dilector. filiorum prioris et capituli eccl'iae Dunelm. ordinis S. Benedicti petitio continebat quod olim quondam Urbanus in sua obedientia de qua partes illae tunc erant vio nuncupatus, ut idem prior et successores sui priores dictae ecclesiae qui pro tempore forent, mitra, baculo pastorali, annulo ac sandalijs et alijs pontisicalibus insignijs liberè posuit uti, sic et in quantum aliqui alij priores cathed. eccl'iar. dicti ordinis in regno Angliae consistentium illis uterentur, eisdem priori ecclesiae Dunelm. et successoribus ac capitulo auctoritate apostolica de speciali gratia per suas literas duxerat indulgendum, prout in eisdem literis dicitur plenius contineri. Cum autem sicut eadem petitio subjungit nonnulli in Anglia consistentium ecclesiarum dicti ordinis priores hujusmodi mitra, baculo pastorali, annulo, sandalijs et alijs pontificalibus insignijs. tempore concessionis hujusmodi uterentur, prout ipsi et praefatus prior Dunelm. utuntur etiam de praesenti pro parte corund prioris eccles. Dunelm. et capituli nobis fuit humiliter supplicatum ut concessionem hujusmodi pro ipsius substantia firmiori nostrae confirmationis robur adjicere de benignitate apostolica dignaremur. Nos, igitur volentes eandem Dunelm. ecclesiam ad earundem ecclesiar. instar honorari ac priorem ejusdem Dunelm. ecclesiae et capitulum praefatos favoribus apostolicis prosequi gratiosis hujusmodi supplicalionibus inclinati praesatam eisdem priori eccl'iae Dunelm. et successoribus suis ac capitulo ut praemittitur factam concessionis gratia ratam habentes et gratam, eadem auctoritate apostolica, confirmamus et praesentis scripti patrocinio communimus Nulli ergo omnino homini liceat hanc paginam nostrae confirmationis et communitionis infringere, vel ei ausu temerario contraire. Siquis autem hoc attemptare praesumpserit, indignationem omnipotentis Dei et beator. Petri et Pauli apostolor. ejus se noverit incursurum. Dat Florentiae 7o kal. Octobr. pontificatus nostri anno secundo anno D'ni MCCCCXIX.
. He appeared rigidly attentive to the rites of the church in the ceremonies of bishop Hatfield's interment. Chambrè tells us
Whart. Aug. Sac. p. 771.
, the executors applied to the convent to permit the chariot on which the remains were brought to enter the church, and that the same with the horses might be returned; or otherwise they should be obliged to take the body from the vehicle on the outside of the church-yard, and carry it on men's shoulders into the church, because the chariot and horses were not the late prelate's property at the time of his death, he having previously disposed of them. To this the prior, with the assent of the convent, replied, that he would not consent on any consideration to the infringement of any of the privileges of his church; but that the sacrist should have the chariot, horses, and all the vestments, with which the remains should enter the north gate, together with the chapel, and all other the episcopal ornaments used at the interment. The lord Nevill and four others of distinction were chosen to determine upon this claim; who adjudged, that by ancient custom all these matters appertained to, and were the right of the church; but they compromised the same in the present instance, and the executors consented to pay 200l. in lieu of the articles demanded, in order that the splendor of the interment might not be diminished, or the intended ceremony disturbed
O ineffabilis miseria hujus mundi! Dum vixerat erat episcopus sine comparatione ditissimus hujus regni; et idem mortuus non habuit unde honorificè sepeliri posset; nec unde faceret ecclesiae sponsae suae relictae, quomodo alii episcopi multo pauperiores omnes facere solebant.—
Chambrè. Wh. Ang. Sac. p. 771.
.
After presiding in the monastery seventeen years, the prior died, and was buried before the altar of St Benedict, being the first of the three altars in the north limb of the middle transept. His tomb was covered with marble, and ornamented with his effigies in brass and other curious work
Grey's Notes.—Stevens' Mon.—Fuller's Ch. Hist. &c.
.
JOHN DE HEMMINGBURG
succeeded in the same year, and held this important office twenty-five years
Anno hujus 19o erat reformatio ordinis nigri monachorum —Chambrè.—Whart. Angl. Sac. p 775.— J. de H. sic enim dicitur in ipsius chartulario anno 1408 scripto; de Giningburgh in judiculo saepe dicto cognominatus.—Wharton, p. 788.—Append. to Wake's State of the Church, p. 79.—Grey's Notes.—
Stevens' Mon. &c.
. In his time the bishop's right to receive profession of the monks was re-claimed, and, after much litigation and an appeal, the bishop withdrew his suit. The jurisdiction of the convent's churches within the diocese of York was again agitated during this prior's office, and was determined against the archbishop
Commissio Henrici Bowet archiepiscopi Ebor. Richardo Pyttes ad inquirend. de titulis et juribus ecclesiae Dun. in dioc. Ebor.
HENRICUS permissione divina Eboracen. archie'pus, Angliae primas, et apostolicae sedis legatus, dilecto nobis in Christo mag'ro Richardo Pyttes canonico ecclesiae nostrae Ebor. et cancellario nostro, salutem, gratiam et benedictionem. Qui nuper nos nostram dioc. ac archidiaconatus Eborum, Estrydding et Cliveland, ac ecclesias, personas et loca de Hovedon et Hovedonshire, Alverton et Alvertonshir, annis D'ni 1409 et 10 visitantes, accepimus quod prior et conventus ac capitulum eccl'iae Dun. ordinis S. Benedicti de Northalverton, Estryngton, Gygleswyk, Bosall, Fysshelake et Rodyngton, eccl'ias parochiales nostrae Eborum dioces. ac pensiones annuas ab ecclesijs infra ipsam nostram dioc. constitutis ac ecclesiasticis personis, videlicet, de ecclesia de Hemyngburgh quiuq. mareas, de eccl'ia de Brantyngham decem marcas, de eccl'ia de Welton tres marcas, de eccl'ia de Walkyngton centum solidos, de eccl'ia de Skypwith unam marcam, de eccl'ia de Holtby viginti et quinq. solidos, de vicaria de Alverton viginti libras sterlingorum, de eccl'ia de Syggeston decem marcas, de eccl'ia de Rungeton quadraginta solidos, et de eccl'ia de Normanton unam marcam, in suos proprios usus sine titulo canonico occupârunt et tenuerunt, occupantq. et tenent, fructusq. redditus, proventus et decimas quarundem earundem eccl'iarum de facto in suos usus et collegij sui Oxon. converterunt et convertunt. Ipsiq. prior, conventus et capitulum, per se et custodes suos ac ministros omnimodam jurisdictionem spiritualem in eccl'ijs de Hovedon, Estryngton, Brantyngham, Hemyngburgh, Welton, Walkyngton, Holtby, Northalverton, Siggeston et Rungeton supradictis, ac prebendis, vicarijs et capellis suis, parocliijsq, clero et populo earundem villisq. personis et locis suis alijs infra Hoveden et Hovedonshir, Alverton et Alvertonshir, nostrae dioc. predictae constitutis, temerè exercere usurpârunt et usurpant, absq. nostris auctoritate et consensu; aliaq. ibidem a jure communi exorbitantia, et nobis praejudicialia etiam fecerunt et faciunt pro suae libito voluntatis.
Nos igitur volentes, prout ad nos pertinet ex pastoralis officii debito, effici de praemissis certiores, dictos priorem et conventum ac capitulum eccl'iae Dun. omnesq. alios quorum intererat in hac parte, ad comparend. coram nobis vel com'issario nostro super praemissis de justitia responsur. ac ulterius processur. et procedi visur. factur'q. et receptur. quod justum fuerit in hoc casu, ad certos diem et locum nunc futur. competentes fecimus peremptoriè evocari. Verum quia sumus multipliciter praepediti quo minus super praemissis personaliter procedere valeamus ad ulterius inquirend. procedend. statuend. decernend. terminand. definiend. et exequend. ac plenariè justitiam faciend. in praemissis cum omnibus et singulis incidentibus, emergentibus, dependentibus et connexis, vobis magistro Richardo canonico et cancellario nostro praedicto, de cujus fidelitate et industria plenam in d'no fiduciam obtinemus, com'ittimus vices nostras et plenatiam in d'no potestatem, cum cujuslibet coercionis canonicae potestate. In quorum omnium test. sigillum nostrum praesentibus est appensum. Datis in castro nostro de Cawood vicesimo sexto die mensis Julij, anno D'ni 1410, et nostrae translationis tertio.—I. Reg. Eccl. Dun. p. 186.
Sententia definitiva pro'jure eccl'iae Dunelm. contra archiepiscopum Eborum.
CHRISTI nomine invocato, et habentes prae oculis solum Deum per hanc nostram definitivam sententiam quam in his scriptis fecimus de consilio et consensu jurisperitorum nobis assidentium, nos Richardus Pyttes canonicus ecclesiae Eborum, ac venerabilis in Christo patris et d'ni Henrici, Dei gratia, Eborum archie'pi, Angliae primatis, et apostolicae sedis legati cancellarius, et per eundem venerabilem patrem in hac parte commissarius, specialiter deputatus, pronunciamus, decernimus et declaramus eccl'ias parochiales de Northalverton, Estryngton et Gygleswyk religiosis viris priori et conventui ac capitulo ecclesiae Dunelm. ecclesiasq. de Bossall, Fisshelake et Rodyngton Eborum dioces. collegio dictorum prioris et conventus Oxon. fuisse et esse rite et canonicè unitas, appropriatas, annexas et incorporatas, cum suis capellis, juribus et pertinen. universis, ipsasq. ecclesias cum capellis ab eisdem dependen. juribusq. et pertinentiis suis: Necnon portiones et pensiones annuas ab ecclesijs parochialibus dictae Eborum dioc. videlicet, de ecclesia de Hemyngburgh quinq. marcas, de ecclesia de Brantyngham decem marcas, de ecclesia de Welton tres marcas, de ecclesia de Walkyngton centum solidos, de ecclesia de Skypwyth unam marcam, de ecclesia de Holteby viginti quinq. solidos, de vicaria de Alverton viginti libras sterlingorum, de ecclesia de Siggeston decem marcas, de ecclesia de Rungeton quadraginta solidos, et de ecclesia de Nomanton unam marcam sterlingorum, jusq. et liberam potestatem, ac jurisdictionem spiritualem ad forum ecclesiasticum de jure vel consuetudine spectantia, ac visitationem solit. in Hoveden et Hovedenschir, Alverton et Alvertonschir, ceteraq. jura sua, prout in compositione inter bonae memoriae Willielmum quondam Eborum archie'pum praefati venerabilis patris d'ni nostri d'ni Henrici Eborum archie'pi praedecessorem ac praefatos priorem et conventum Dunelm. de et super jurisdictione sua hujusmodi in Hoveden et Hovedenschir, Alverton et Alvertonschir, inde facta memoratur plenius, quam compositionem et contenta in eadem hic haberi volumus specialiter pro justis habend. ac per se et suos custodes et ministros clericos seculares deputatos et deputandos exercend. ad praesatos religiosos viros priorem et conventum ac capitulum Dunelm. persinuisse pertinere et pertinere debere, ipsosq. in praemissis omnibus et singulis suisse et esse tisulo sufficienti et canonico munitos ac in eisdem sufficiens jus et titulum competentem habuisse et habere, ac ea justè et canonicè tenuisse ac tenere, exerouisse et exercere, ac possidisse et possidere, percepisseq. et sic in futurum debite percipere, et de eisdem liberè per se et suos disponere debere. Necnon ipsos priorem et conventum Dun. ac suum colleg. Oxon. absolvendos fore et absolvimus ab ulteriori impetitione ossicij dicti verab. patris et nostri in hac parte, ac in pace dimittimus judicialiter in his scriptis.—
I: Reg. Eccl. Dun. p. 260.
. He sent his proctor to the convocation at York in the year 1398. The prior departed this life in the year 1416, and was interred in the south limb of the middle transept of the cathedral church, before the altar of the holy Virgin, being the first from the south aile of the choir. His tomb was covered with marble, wrought with his effigies and those of the twelve apostles in brass
ECCE! marmoreus lapis hic tegit ossa Johannis,
Quem residere Deus coelis cunctis det in annis.
Hemmingburgh natus fuit hic et honorificatus
Sede prioratus, virtute probus monachatus.
Qui legis haec, pro me Pater unum supplica, pro me
Un' dirigas, et ave Deus, ut me liberet ave.
. To him succeeded
JOHN DE WESSYNGTON,
who was elected the 5th of November, 1416. This learned prior wrote many tracts, particularly one,
De juribus et possessionibus ecclesioe Dunelm.
Bibl. Cotton. Vitell. A. 9.
wherein he proves, that the priors of Durham were always invested with the dignity of abbots
Volo etiam et praecipio ut omnes priores Duelmensis ecclesiae, qui futuri sunt, omnes libertates, consuetudines, dignitates, et honores abbatis obtineant, &c.—Cart. Wm I.—
Dugd. Mon. vol. i. p. 45.
. There are some of his MSS. in the dean and chapter's library, B. 5, N. 1. The account of the paintings in the windows, and of the ornaments and ceremonies of the church, now extant, is by some attributed to him. He renewed the dispute with the bishop touching the profession of the monks, which was determined in the prior's favour; and presided at the general chapter held for the order of St Benedict, at Northampton, in the year 1426. In his time, several licences were obtained for acquiring lands by the monastery
Rot. E. Langley, No 43, 69. Rot. A. Nevil, No 112. Rot. M. Nevil, No 53.
, in Coupan, Billingham, Burdon, East-Rainton, and Fery on the Hill, and also in Barmeton, East, West, and Middle-Merrington, the barony of Elvet near Durham, and the old borough of Durham; and also a licence to receive the manor of Heworth near Aykley, according to the disposition and ordinance of prior Hotoun. We have a correct list of the fraternity of this monastery, resident at the time of the visitation of John Marchall, L. L. B. vicar-general to the bishop, in the month of January 1437
Nomina confratrum et commonachorum ad visitationem Joh. Marchall LL. B. citatorum Dunelm. Jan. 4o 1437.
[From Wilkins' Concilia, vol. iii. p. 462.]
John Wessyngton,
prior
[The
prior
had lodgings by himself, with all offices thereto belonging: The rest took precedency according to the topical statutes of the convent.]
Steph. Handey,
sub-prior
[The
sub-prior
was next, whose office was to assist the lord prior when he was present, and to act in his stead when absent.]
Will. Poklingeton,
infirmat.
John Durham,
sen.
Robt Emildon
Will. Baroy,
prior de Finkhale
John Gisborne
Will. Ebchester,
sacrista
Hugh Warworth,
infirmat.
Will. Durham
Rog. Langchester,
mag. infirm.
[
Infirmarius
was the curator of the infirmary, wherein sick persons, not to be lodged in the dormitory, had the benefit of physic and attendance: No Lent or fasting days were kept therein, sickness being a dispensation to eat flesh.]
John Swineshed,
infirm.
Tho. Moreby
Tho. Witton
Hen. Fereby
John Gonerton,
altus decan. ord.
John Durham,
mag. celloe de Jarowe.
Robt Moreby
John Wayckcliff
Rich. Barton,
tertius prior et feretrar.
[As for the
third-prior
(for such a diminutive appears) he might have some other office joined to it.]
Tho. Nisbite,
hostillarius
John Dorwarde,
alter dec. ordin.
Geo. Sither,
mag. Galilee
John Bailey,
camerarius
Will. Lyhame,
mag. celloe de Warmoth monachorum
John Ell,
senesc. d'ni prior
Tho. Laneson,
bursar.
Tho. Hexham,
sen.
John Gaitesende
John Harome
Tho. Ward,
cancellar.
[
Cancellarius
was the registrary, auditor, and secretary of the convent; it being his proper business to write and return letters, and manage the most learned employments in the monastery.]
Robt Ergehowe
Tho. Foord,
refectar.
Will. Dalton,
offic. cancellarioe et elemosinar.
Will. Eden
Will. Clifton,
infirm.
John Bertley,
granatar.
Robt Westmerlande
John Warrener,
precentor
Tho Sewyn
Rich. Blakburne,
capellanus d'ni n'ri p'ri
John Wheldrike
Tho. Bradbury in Cella
Robt Scremestbie.
Will. Kirkeby
John Midleham
Nich. Bolton
John Rippon
Robt Parke
Will. Kellowe
Hen. Rackett
John Bradburie
Will. Figge
Robt Wrakes
Will. Rodburne
John Rihahall
Will. Cutherte.
Rich. Shierburne
Will. Burden
John Eden
Tho. Culve
For explanation of other officers, see Fuller's Church History, p. 284.
. Prior Wessyngton presided thirty years, and departed this life in the year 1446
Chambrè.—Whart. Angl. Sac. p. 776, 719.—Grey's Notes.—Bernard's Catal. (MSS.) tom. ii. pl. 1. p. 12.—Smith's Catal. of Cotton MSS. p. 82, 89.
. He was buried before the door of the north aile, near to St Benedict's altar: On his tombstone was an inscription on brass, now totally lost.
WILLIAM DE EBCHESTER
was elected prior on the 30th of June
Chambrè.—Wharton's Angl. Sac. p. 777, 789.—Stevens' Mon. p. 352.—Grey's Notes.—Willis's Cath.
1446, holding the chair ten years and three months. He resigned in the year 1456; and surviving that act but a short time, was interred under a marble stone in the south aile of the middle transept, before the altar of the holy Virgin, called
our Lady of Bolton,
which was erected by the Nevills: This was the second altar in that place. His tomb, Willis says, was inscribed as in the notes
EN! tegit haec petra venerabilis ossa Wilhelmi
Ebchester; justos consumit terra sepultos.
Ingenio pregnans fuerat, coelestia pandens,
Oeconomus verbi fidelis dogmata sacri.
Egenti largus, sitienti pocula praebens,
Nudatis vestes; peregrinis hospes amoenus.
Rexerat ecclesiam prudenter jure prioris,
Accumulans praemiis eandem valdè decoris.
Naturae cessit post partum virginis anno,
Mille CD. quingento adjuncto postea sexto.
Corpore defuncto, ejus in secula virtus
Durabit, superis oblatio maxima divis.
Australi ecclesiae sub marmore parte sepultus,
Cum Christo dormit, vivit, regnatque beatus:
Pro quo, metra legis haec qui, ora mente fideli,
Ut sit semper ovans cum sanctis culmine coeli.
. He was succeeded by
JOHN DE BURNABY, D. D.
who was elected the 25th of October
Stevens, 9th Nov.—Chambrè.—Wharton's Angl. Sac. p. 778, 789.—Grey's Notes.—Davies, &c.
1456, and presided eight years. He died in the year 1464, and was buried on the 15th of October, in the middle aile of the nave, opposite the cloister door. On the marble which covered his tomb was his effigies in brass.
RICHARD
Called Ranulphus in a MS. given by him to the library of the convent.—Grey's Notes.—Stevens' Mon. —Chambrè.—Wharton's Angl. Sac. p. 778, 789.
BELL, B. D.
was elected the 26th of November 1464: He presided here thirteen years and twenty weeks, and was consecrated bishop of Carlisle on the 6th of March 1478. Whilst prior of Durham, we find him named several times in the commissions of Edward IV. on treaties with the king of Scots. He died in 1496, and was interred in the middle of the choir of Carlisle cathedral; his tombstone, with the effigies in brass, and other ornamentals, are still in good preservation. His successor
ROBERT EBCHESTER, D. D.
was elected the 26th of November 1478; presided only six years, and during that time obtained several licences to increase the possessions of the convent
Rot. A. Dudley, No 77. Dat. 1st Apr. 1483. Rot. B. Dudley, No 67. Dat. 20th Jan. 1482, touching lands in Cleatlam, Little Heswell, the barony of Elvet, the borough of Elvet, the old borough of Durham, the street of St Egidius or St Giles, Wolviston, Ferie, Bellyngham, Aykley, Morton, Tinmouth, Heburn, borough of Durham, and South Bailey.
. He departed this life on the 29th of June 1484, and was interred in the south aile of the middle transept, before the altar called
our Lady of Bolton's,
under a marble tombstone, ornamented with his effigies in brass, the inscription (given by Willis) as in the notes
MARMORE Robertus jacet hic sub jure disertus
Ebchester, certus sibi sit Deus ipse misertus.
Extiterat castus corpus prior hic probitatis,
Doctus, non fastus, studio fungens veritatis,
Largus, amans, hilaris, subtilia dogmata pandens,
Sacra suis meritis virtutem carmina clangens.
Die Pater infer Ave cum Credo postulo pro se
Christo, sicq. vale repetens mea metrica juste
Mille CD. quaterno L. ter deno quoque quarto.
. His successor
JOHN AUCKLAND, D. D.
was elected on the 16th of July 1484; presided ten years; and, departing this life in the year 1494, was interred within the church
W. de Chambrè.—Wharton's Angl. Sac. p. 779, &c.—Grey's Notes.
. He was succeeded by
THOMAS CASTELL, D. D.
who was elected the 4th of May 1494, and held his office twenty-five years. The church was not purged, even in this age, of its grossest superstition; for we find an account in Chambrè of a healing performed on one Richard Poell, a courtier of king Henry VII. at the tomb of St Cuthbert
Wharton's Angl. Sac. p. 781.
. In this prior's time we have a list of the brethren of the monastery, as given in the notes
Nomina confratrum et commonachor. eccli'oe cathedral. Dunelm. 1501.—Randal's MSS.
Tho. Castell,
prior
Will. Browne,
sub-prior
Will. Yondale,
mag. infirmar.
John Steele
John Corneforthe,
sacrista
John Claxton
T. Lowsan,
decan. ord.
Will. Howkwell,
bursar.
Robt Werdall,
feretrar.
John Riddall,
elemosinar.
John Porter,
commoror.
Edw. More,
decan. ord. alter.
Rich. Evenwoode,
senesc. hospicij p'ri
obt Rock,
camerar.
Robt Strother,
hostillar.
Robt Todd,
granatar.
John Blenkarne
Rich. Lowson
Will. Derneton
Robt Mody,
celerar.
John Thirkill
Will. Burghe,
mag. Galilee
Rich. Hevington
Rich. Denamide
John Lowson,
precentor
John Crissow,
succentor
John Swalwell
John Wrake,
capellan. prioris
Tho. Cliff
Tho. Barnes,
sub-sacrista
Rich Poole
Robt Batle
Rich. Ganlesbie
Will. Elvett
Will. Winter
Robt Beverley
Rich. Kendall
Cuth. Marshall
Will. Hertilpoole
Rich. Willy
Ben. Becke
Will. Yonge
. Much friendly intercourse appears between bishop Fox and the convent, and many special marks of favour were shewn by the prelates. The prior was made master of the bishop's game, with a grant of venison from his forests and parks at pleasure
Rot. C. Fox, No 46.—RICHARD by the g'ce of God busshop of Duresme to all and ev'ry our foresters and kepers of our parkis chasis and forestys within oure busshopprick of Duresme and to theur deputeis and to ev'ry of them gretyng. Wheras we for the specyall luff and favo'r that we bere unto oure wil belovyd brother the p
yor of oure cathedrall chirch of Duresme has made hym the maister of oure gam within oure busshopprick of Duresme we woll and charge you and ev'ry of you that the same oure brother ha
from hensforth fre lib'tye to hunt and chace in his own p'son as ofte' and when so ev' hit shall pleas lrym with you or any of you. And in lykewyse to ha
a deer of the season as ofte' and when so ev' he woll send therfor at his pleasor he sendyng you a byll of co'aundemente from hym for the same which byll we woll shall be unto you a sufficyant warraunt and discharge in that behalf agaynst us and oure officers any restreynte or other oure co'aundemente to the contrary hertofore gevyn in eny behalfe notwithstondyng. In witnesse herof to the present writyng we haf put oure signet and syne manuell to endure duryng oure pleasour. Writyn at our castell of Norh'm the fyrst day of Aug. the yere of oure transsacyon the fourth,
p. ipsum e'pum.
—
Ibid.
. Bishop Bainbrigg also shewed great attention to the monastery: In 1508 he granted his charter of confirmation, with an inspeximus of the grant of bishop Pudsey of Muggleswsck in exchange for Hardwick, with the pasture of Horsleyhope, Histerhope, and Baldinghope; of the grant of bishop Kirkham of the woods and wastes in Horsleyhope, by metes and bounds
13th July, 1260.
; also of the grant of bishop Kellow of all the waste and moorlands from the west gates of the priory of Finchale, by metes and bounds
20th Nov. 1311.
; and also granted licence to the monastery to purchase in mortmain, in which instrument is comprised a general indemnity
Rot. B. Bainbrigg, No 66.
. The same prelate granted to the prior and convent all the waste lands lying between the bridge of Framwelgate and the bridge of Elvet, and between the walls of the castle and the cathedral church and the water of the Were, rendering 13s. 4d. rent
Rot. B. Bainbrigg, No 61.
. He also granted free-warren in the prior's parks at Muggleswick, Helay-field, Bear-park, and Raynton-park, and in the woods of Strathowe, Witton, Mayner, Sacristonheugh, Hayning-wood, Herber-close, and Ferycliff, Baxtenford-wood, Raley with Raley-wood and the fields and meadows thereto appertaining, Oldingrege with the fields and meadows thereof, Alton-field, and Moreby-bank
28th Sept. 1508, Rot. B. Bainbrigg, No 64.
. The east gates of the abbey, now called the College Gates, having gone to decay, prior Castell rebuilt the same in a sumptuous stile, with a porter's lodge thereto; above the gateway he erected a chapel in honour of St Helen, where the laity twice a day were admitted to the celebration of mass, for which two priests were assigned by the convent, who had their chamber adjacent to the chapel. He also restored the great north window of the middle transept of the church, in which he caused to be represented, in painted glass, the figures of the four Evangelists, together with the holy Virgin and St Cuthbert; under which his own figure was depicted, kneeling, with elevated hands, and a label bearing this petition,
Virgo, tuum natum fac nobis propitiatum,
or, as Davies has it,
Virgo mater Dei miserere mei.
He purchased and gave to the convent two mills, from thenceforth called
Jesus' Mills,
and covered them with lead; for which he obtained the pious memorial of being commemorated in Jesus' mass
This mass and Jesus' altar are mentioned in the description of the church.
. The tower on Farn island was built by him
Lel. Itin. vol. v. p. 95.—For an account of this tower, see View of Northumberland.
. Prior Castell departed this life on the 2d of April 1519, and was interred in the middle aile of the nave before Jesus' altar, his effigies in brass being wrought on his tombstone, with the inscription in the notes
MORTUUS hoc tumulo Thomas sub marmore duro
Castellus recubat, pietatis turris ahena,
In literis doctor divinis, munere prior,
Moribus excomptis, et miti pectore charus.
Statura mediocris erat, virtute procerus;
Dapsilis hospitibus, structuris tum probe notus.
Pauperibus laxo praebebat munera sinu.
Nulli clausa bono sua janua, mensa, crumena.
Suppliciter pro se dicas, Credo, Pater, Ave,
Qui legis haec, quo sit coelesti civis in aede.
, as given by Willis.
The office continued vacant near five years, during which period, Wharton says
Chambrè.—Wharton's Angl. Sac. p. 782.—Grey's Notes.—Stevens' Mon. &c.
, the bishop received the revenues; but Stevens contradicts this assertion in these words,
What Mr Wharton says of the bishop's assuming the priory revenues before the election of prior Hugh, is, as I am informed by my honoured friend Mr Thomas Baker, a mistake.
We must not depend too much on this bare contradiction; for near the close of bishop Ruthall's episcopacy, and on Wolsey's advancement to the See, we cannot wonder at such a misapplication
Ang. Sac. p. 789.—Stevens' p. 352.
. Before we proceed to prior Hugh's life, the records in the notes may perhaps be esteemed worthy of notice
Advocationes sive promotiones nuper monasterio Dunelm. assignatae.
Vicaria ecclesiae parochial. S'ti Oswaldi Dun. xvj
l.
Rectoria eccl. de Dittinsal al's Dindesdale x
l.
Vicaria eccl. de Aikeliff xx
l.
— de Heighington xiij
l.
vj
s.
viij
d.
— de Merrington xiij
l.
vj
s.
viij
d.
— de Billingham xvj
l.
— de Hesledon x
l.
— de Pittington xij
l.
— de Dalton in Valle x
l.
Rectoria de Edmonbiers x
l.
— de Kimblesworth lxvj
s.
viij
d.
Vicaria de Barwicke super Twede xx
l.
— de Norham xx
l.
— de Brankston C
s.
— de Edlingham x
l.
— de Ellingham x
l.
— de Bedlington xiij
l.
vj
s.
viij
d.
Rectoria de Meldon viij
l.
Vicaria de Bywell Peter x
l.
— de Fishhale xiij
l.
vj
s.
viij
d.
— de Brantingham xiij
l.
vj
s.
viij
d.
— de Northallerton xx
l.
— de Bossal xv
l.
— de Frampton xx
l.
— de Ruddington xiij
l.
vj
s.
viij
d.
Nominationes Curatorum, Contaristarum, et Capellanorum.
Salarium curati de Witton-Gilbert in com. Dun. vj
l.
per annum.
curati de Muggleswick in &c. vj
l.
curati de Whitworth in, &c. c
s.
curati de Wallesend in com Northumb. c
s.
curati de Croxdaile in com. Dun. c
s.
curati de S'ta Ilda juxta Shelea iiij
l.
curati beate Mariae in eccl'ia S'ti Oswaldi Dun. c
s.
Cantar. S'te Marie in capella S'te Margarete Dun. c
s.
S'ti Jacobi super pontem de Elvet Dun. lxvi
s.
viij
d.
Beate Marie in eccl'ia de North-Pittington iiij
l.
B. Marie in eccl. de Dedinsall iiij
l.
S'ti Joh'is Baptist. in eccl. de Biwell Peter iiij
l.
In capella de Havverton iiij
l.
xiij
s.
iiij
d.
In capella de Harrington iiij
l.
xiij
s.
iiij
d.
B. Marie in eccl'ia de Easington iiij
l.
B. Marie in eccl'ia S'ti Nich'i Dun. iiij
l.
.
HUGH WHITEHEAD
succeeded to the priory, in the year 1524. He was custos of Durham college, Oxford
Ath. Oxon.
, and is spoken of by historians in a very respectable manner. Chambrè tells us
Whart. Ang. Sac. p. 782.
, he was uniformly religious, and his whole spirit breathed divine love. He retained in his houshold persons of distinguished character, by whom he was most honourably served; kept a liberal table; made great repairs at Beaurepaire; built a new hall at Pittington, called
the prior's hall,
with various other edifices; was not only munificent, but excellently charitable, and in his private life truly exemplary. He held the office eighteen years; and on the 31st day of December 1540, joining with the convent, surrendered the monastery into the king's hands
SURRENDER of the MONASTERY.
OMNIBUS Christi fidelibus ad quos praesens scriptum pervenerit, Nos Hugo Whitehedd prior ecclesiae cathedralis sive monasterii Sancti Cuthberti de Durham in com. Dunelm. et ejusdem loci conventus salutem in Domino sempiternam: NOVERITIS, nos praefatos priorem et conventum unanimi assensu et consensu nostris, animisque deliberatione, certa scientia, et mero motu nostris, ex quibusdam causis justis et rationalibus, nos, animas, et conscientias nostras specialiter moventibus, ultro et sponte dedisse et concessisse, ac per praesentes damus, concedimus, reddimus, deliberamus, et confirmamus illustrissimo et invictissimo principi et domino nostro Henrico Octavo, Dei gratia, Angliae et Franciae regi, sidei defensori, domino Hiberniae, ac in terris supremo capiti ecclesiae Anglicanae, totum dictum monasterium nostrum, ac etiam totum scitum, fundum, circuitum, et praecinctum, ac ecclesiam ejusdem monasterii, cum oneribus, debitis, catallis, et bonis nostris mobilibus, nobis seu dicto monasterio nostro spectantibus sive pertinentibus; tam ea quae in praesenti possidemus, quam ea, quae obligatione vel alia quacunque de causa nobis vel dicto monasterio nostro quoquo modo debentur: Nec
on omnia et singula, maneria, dominia, messuagia, gardina, curtilagia, tosta, terras, et tenementa nostra, prata, pascuas, pasturas, boscos et subboscoa, redditus, reversiones, et servitia, molendina, passagia,
eoda militum, wardas, maritagia, nativos villanos cum eorum sequelis, communias, libertates, franchesias, privilegia, jurisdictiones, officia, curias letas hundredas, visus franci plegii, se
ias, mercata, parcos, warrennas, vivaria, aquas, piscarias, vias, chiminos, wharfas, vacuos,
undos, advocationes, nominationes, praesentationes, et donationes ecclesiarum, vicariarum, capellarum, cantariarum, hospitalium et aliorum ec
lesiasticorum beneficiorum quorumcunque, rectorias, vicarias, cantarias, pensiones, portiones, annuitates, decimas, oblationes, et alia omnia et singula emolumenta, prosicua, possessiones, haereditamenta, et jura nostra quaecunque tam infra dictum comitat. Dunelm. ac in com. Ebor. Lincoln. Northampt. Staff. Lancastr. et Northumbr. quam alibi infra regnum Angliae, Walliae, et marchias earundem, eidem monasterio nostro praedicto quoquo modo spectantia, pertinentia, appendentia, sive incumbentia; ac omnia et omnimoda cartas, evidentias, obligationes, scripta et munimenta nostra qua
cunque, nobis seu dicto monasterio nostro, terris vel tenementis nostris, aut ceteris praemissia cum suis pertinentiis, seu alicui inde parcellae quoquo modo spectantia sive pertinentia: Habendum, tenendum, et gaudendum dictum monasterium nostrum ac praedictum scitum, sundum, circuitum, et praecinctum; ac ecclesiam nostram praedictam cum omnibus d
bitis, bonis, et catallis nostris;
enon omnia et singula maneria, dominia, messuagia, terras et tenementa, rectorias, pensione
, ac cetera praemissa quaecunque, cum omnibus et singulis suis pertinentiis praesato invictissimo principi et regi nostro praedicto haeredibus, successoribus, et assignatis suis, ad usum ejusdem domini regis, haeredum, et succestorum suorum imperpetuum in hac parte: Ac ad omnem juris effectum, qui exinde sequi poterit aut potest; nos et dictum monasterium nostrum cum omnibus et singulis praemissis, ac jura nobis qualitercunque acquisita, ut decet, subjicimus et submittimus, dantes et concedentes, ac per praesentes damus, concedimus,
ed simus, deliberamus, et confirmamus eidem regiae majestati, haeredibus, successoribus et assignatis suis, omnem et omnimodam plenam et liberam facultatem, authoritatem, et potestatem nos dictumque monasterium nostrum, una cum omnibus et singulis maneriis, terris et tenementis, redditibus, reversionibus, et serviciis, ac sing
lis praemissis, cum omnibus suis juribus et pertinentiis quibuscunque disponenda, et pro suo libero regio voluntatis libito, ad quoscunque usus majestati suae placentes alienda, donanda, commutanda, vel transferenda, ac hujusmodi dispositiones, alienationes, donationes, commutationes et translationes per praedictam regiam majestatem suam quovis modo siendam extunc ratificamus, promittentes nos insuper rata, grata, ac firma perpetuo habituros omnia et singula praemissa per praesentes. Et ut omnia et singula praemissa suum de
itum fortiri valeant effectum, electionibus
There seems some omission here.
— insuper nobis et successoribus nostris, necnon omnibus qu
relis, provocationibus, appellationibus, actionibus, litibus, et instantiis aliis quibuscunque juris, remediis, et beneficiis, nobis forsan et successoribus nostris in ea parte praetextu dispositionis, alienationis, donationis, commissionis, et translationis praedict et ceterorum praemissorum qualitercunque competend. et competitur omnibusque doli, erroris, metus, ignorantiae, vel alterius materiae sive dispositionis, exceptionibus, objectionibus, et allegationibus prorsus semotis ac depositis palam, publice et expresse ex certa scientia nostra, animisque spontaneis renuntiamus et cessamus, prout per praesentes renuntiamus et cessamus, et ab eisdem recedimus in hiis scriptis. Et nos praesati prior et conventus successoresque nostri dictum monasterium nostrum, ac etiam totum scitum, sundum, circuitum, praecinctum, mansionem, et ecclesiam nostram praedictam, ac omnia et singula maneria, dominia, messuagia, gardina, curtilagia, tosta, terras, et tenementa nostra, prata, pascuas, pasturas, boscos et subboscos, redditus, reversiones, et servitia, ac cetera omnia et singula praemissa, cum omnibus suis juribus et pertinentiis, praesato domino nostro regi, haeredibus, successoribus, et assignatis suis, ad usum praedictum, contra omnes gentes warrantizabimus et imperpetuum defendemus per praesentes. In quorum testimonium, nos praefatus prior et conventus, huic praesenti scripto nostro nomina nostramanibus propriis subscripsimus, sigillum que nostrum commune apposuimus. Dat. in domo nostra capitulari ultimo die mensis Decembris, anno regm praedicti regis invictissimi principis et domini nostri regis Henrici Octavi tricesimo primo.
, the revenues whereof were then rated at 1366l. 10s. 5d. according to Dugdale, but by Speed at 1615l. 14s. 10d.
On the 12th of May 1541 the king granted his Foundation Charter
The Foundation Charter of the Cathedral Church of Durham by King Henry the Eighth,
12th May,
1541.
HENRICUS Octavus, Dei gratia, Angliae et Franciae rex, fidei defensor, dominus Hiberniae, et in terra supremum caput Angli
anae ecclesiae; Omnibus ad quos praesentes literae pervenerint, salutem. Cum nuper
nobium quoddam sive monasterium quoddam existit ecclesia Beatae Mariae Virginis et Sancti Cuthberti episcopi vulgo vocabatur, atque omnia et singula ejus maneria, dominia, messuagia, terras, tenementa, haereditamenta, dotationes et possessiones, certis de causis specialibus et urgentibus, per Hugonem ipsius nuper
enobii, sive monasterii priorem, et ejusdem loci conventum nobis et haeredibus nostris imperpetuum jamdudum data fuerunt et concessa, prout per ipsorum prioris et conventus cartam sigillo suo conventuali sive communi sigillatam, et in cancellaria nostra irrot
latam manifeste liquet: Quorum praetextu nos de ejusdem nuper cenob
sive monasterii scitu, septo, et praecinctu, ac de omnibus et singulis praedictorum nuper prioris et conventus maneriis, dominiis, messuagiis, terris, tenementis, haereditamentis, dotationibus et possessionibus ad praesens pleno jure
isiti sumus in dominico nostro ut de
odo; nos utique sie de eisdem seisiti existentes, divinaque nos inspirante clementia, nihil magis ex animo affectantes quam ut vera religio, verusque Dei cultus inibi non modo ut [non] aboleatur, sed in integrum potius restituatur, et ad primitivam seu genuinae sinceritatis normam reformetur, correctisque enormitatibus in quas monachorum vita et professio longo temporis lapsu deplorabiliter exorbitaverat, operam dedimus, quate
s humana prospicere potest infirmitas, ut imposterum ibidem sacrorum eloquiorum documenta et nostrae salutiferae redemptionis sacramenta pure administrentur, bonorum morum disciplina observetur juventus in literis liberalibus instituatur, senectus viribus defecta eorum praesertim qui vel circa personam nostram vel alioquin circa regni nostri negotia publica bene et fideliter nobis servierint, rebus ad victum necessariis condigne soveantur, ut denique elemosinarum in pauperes Christi largitio, et viarum pontiumque reparationes, et cetera omnis generis pietatis officia illine exuberantia, in omnia vicina loca longe lateque demanent ad Dei omnipotentis gloriam, et ad subditorum nostrorum communem utilitatem felicitatemque.—Id
i
co nos infra praelibatum scitum, septum, circuitum, ambitum, et praecin
um dicti nuper cenobii sive monasterii ad gloriam et honorem sanct
e et individuae Trinitatis, Patris, et Filii, et Soi
us Sancti, quandam ecclesiam cathedralem de uno decano presbitero et duodecim praebendariis pre
biteris, ibidem omnipotenti Deo
ino et imperpetuum servituram,
eari,
rigi, fundari, et
abili
i dec
evimus, et eadem ecclesiam cathedralem de uno decano presbitero et duodecim praebendariis cum aliis ministris a
l divinum cultum necessariis, tenore praesentium realiter et ad plenum
r
mus,
rigimus, fundamus, stabilimus, et stabiliti, ac imperpetuum inviolabiliter observa
i jubemus per praesentes.
VOLUMUS itaque et per praesentes ordinamus, quod ecclesia cathedralis praedicta ad gloriam Christi et honorem Beatae Mariae Virginis matris ejus per nos erecta et fundata, cathedralis ecclesia Christi et Beatae Mariae Virginis, imperpetuum vocetur, nuncupetur, et appelletur, ut quod ecclesia cathedralis praedicta sit et imperpetuum erit ecclesia cathedralis et sedes episcopalis reverendi in Christo patris Cuthberti permissione divina Dunelmensis episcopi, et successorum suorum Dunelm. episcoporum; eandemque ecclesiam cathedralem Christi et Beatae Mariae Virginis honoribus et insigniis sedis episcopalis et cathedralis ecclesiae per praesentes decoramus, et eandem sedem episcopalem infra scitum et praecinctum dicti nuper cenobii seu monasterii praefato episcopo et successoribus episcopis Dunelmensibus damus et concedimus per praesentes: Habendam et gaudendam eidem episcopo et successoribus suis imperpetuum.
ET ut ecclesia cathedralis praedicta de personis congruis in singulis locis et gradibus suis perimpleatur, et decoretur, dilectum nobis Hugonem Whithed sacrae theologiae professorem primum originalem et modernum decanum praedictae ecclesiae cathedralis, ac Edwardum Hyndmers sacrae theologiae professorem primum presbiterum praebendarium, ac Rogerum Watson sacrae theologiae professorem secundum presbiterum praebendarium, ac Thomam Sparke suffraganeum Berwicensem in sacra theologia baccalarium tertium presbiterum praebendarium, ac Willielmum Bennett sacrae theologiae professorem quartum presbiterum praebendarium, ac Williemum Todd sacrae theologiae professorem quintum presbiterum praebendarium, ac Stephanum Marley in sacra theologia baccalarium sextum presbiterum praebendarium, ac Robertum Dalton in sacra theologia baccalarium septimum presbiterum praebendarium, ac Johannem Towton in sacra theologia baccalarium octavum presbiterum praebendarium, ac Nicholaum Marley in sacra theologia baccalarium novenum presbiterum praebendarium, ac Radulphum Blaxton decimum presbiterum praebendarium, ac Robertum Bennet undecimum presbiterum praebendarium, ac Willielmum Watson duodecim presbiterum praebendarium praedictae ecclesiae cathedralis, tenore praesentium facimus, per
i
imus, constituimus, et ordinamus per praesentes.
VOLUMUS etiam et ordinamus, ac eisdem decano et praebendariis concedimus per praesentes, quod praedicti decanus et duodecim praebendarii de cetero sint de se, et in re, et nomine, unum corpus corporatum, habeantque successionem perpetuam, et se gerent, exhibebunt, et occupabunt, juxta et secundum ordinationes, regulas, et statuta cis per nos in quadam indentura imposterum, faciendas, specificandas, et declarandas; et quod idem decanus et praebendarii ac successores sui decanus et capitulum Dunelmensis cathedralis ecclesiae Christi et Beatae Mariae Virginis imperpetuum vocabuntur et appellabuntur, ac in praesenti vocentur et appellentur: — ET quod praefati decanus et prebendarii ecclesiae cathedralis praedictae et successores sui, sint et imperpetuum erunt capitulum episcopatus Dunelmensis: Sitque idem capitulum praesato Cuthberto nunc Dunelmensi episcopo, et successoribus suis episcopis Dunelmensibus perpetuis futuris temporibus annexum, incorporatum, et unitum; ipsosque decanum et praebendarios unum corpus corporatum in re et nomine
acimus, ereamus, et stabilimus, ac eos pro uno corpore facimus, declaramus, ordinamus, et acceptamus, habeantque successionem perpetuam.—ET quod ipsi decanus et capitulum, corumque successores, per nomen decani et capituli Dunelmensis cathedralis ecclesiae Christi et Beatae Mariae Virginis, prosequi, clamare, et placitare possiat, et implacitari, ac defendere et defendi, respondere et responderi, in quibuscunque curiis, locis, legum nostrarum et alibi ubiqunque, in et super omnibus et singulis — actionibus,
ctis, demandis, brevibus, et querelis, realibus, spiritualibus, ecclesiasticis, personalibus et mi
tis, ac in omnibus aliis rebus, causis, et materiis quibuscunque: Et per idem nomen, maneria, dominia, terras, tenementa, possessiones, haereditamenta, pr
a
et emolumenta, tam spiritualia sive ecclesiastica, quam tempotalia, et alia quaecunque per nos, per literas nostra
patentes haeredum vel successorum nostrorum, seu per aliquam aliam personam vel personas quas
unque
et successoribus suis, vel aliter secundum leges nostras vel haeredum seu successorum nostrorum danda seu concedenda, capere, recipere, perquirere, dare, alienare, et demittere, ac sacere et exequi valeant et po
t, prout
rae ecclesiae cathedrales infra reg
m nostrum Angliae capere, recipere, perquirere, dare, et demittere, ac sacere consueverint, aut exequi possint quoquomodo.—ET quod decanus et capitulum ecclesiae cathedralis Dunelmensis Christi et Beatae Mariae Virginis praedictae, et successores sui imperpetuum habeant et habebu
commune sigillum ad omnimodas causas, evidentias, et cetera scripta, vel
acta sua
acienda cos vel Dunelmensem cathedralem ecclesiam Christi et Beatae Marie Virginis praedictae, aliquo modo tangentia sive concernentia sigilla
da, per quod se et successores suos astringere et obligare possint et valeant ad tempus vel imperpetuum, juxta et secundum senorem ejusdem scripti sic per illa sigillati.—ET quia volumus dictam Dunelmensem ecclesiam cathedralem Christi et Beatae Mariae Virginis, ad laudem et honorem ommipotentis Dei honorifice dolare; de ampliori gratia nostra dedimus et concessimus, ac per praesentea damus et concedimus pr
fatis decano et capitulo Dunelmensis cathe
ralis ecclesiae Christi et Beatae Mariae praedicta
, totum praedictum scitum septum, circuitum, ambitum, et prae
ctum supradicti nuper ceno
ii, seu monasterii, cum omnibus antiquis privilegiis, libertatibus,
c liberis consuetudinibus ejusdem nuper cenobii sive monasterii, ac
o
m ecclesiam ibidem, una cum omnibus capellis, pluribis, campanis, campanilibus, claustris, cimiteriis,
ss
agiis, domibus, aedificiis, tectis, curtilagiis, ortis, gardinis, pomariis▪ ,
agnis, v
a
is, et ceteri
omnibus locis, terris, et territoriis infra eandem scitum circuitum, ambitum, et precinctum supradicti nuper cenobii,
ive monasterii existentibus, et quae ut pars partis vel parcella ejusdem nuper scitus, sive monasterii communiter fuerunt reputata seu existimata, quae nuper fuerunt praedicti nuper prioris et conventus in jure nuper monasterii praedicti, simul cum omnibus et omnimodis vasis, jocalibus, ornamentis, bonis, catallis, et implementis ejusdem nuper cenobii sive monasterii, cum suis pertinentiis universis: Habendum, tenendum, et gaudendum, praedictum scitum, septum, circuitum, ambitum, et precinctum supradicti nuper monasterii, una cum omnibus antiquis privilegiis, libertatibus, ac liberis consuetudinibus supradictis, ac cum praedicta ecclesia, capellis, campanis, campanilibus, claustris, messuagiis, domibus, aedificiis, curtilagiis, ortis, gardinis, pomariis stagnis, vivariis, terris, et territoriis, infra dictum scitum, septum, circuitum, ambitum, et precinctum praedicti nuper cenobii sive monasterii, simul cum praedictis vasis, jocalibus, ornamentis, bonis, catallis, et implementis ejusdem nuper cenobii sive monasterii, ac cum ceteris omnibus et singulis praemissis superius expressis et specificatis, cum suis pertinentiis praefatis decano et capitulo Dunelmensis cathedralis ecclesiae Christi et Beatae Mariae Virginis praedictae et successoribus suis imperpetuum, de nobis haeredibus et successoribus nostris in puram et perpetuam elemosinam.
VOLUMUS etiam, et per praesentes concedimus praesatis decano et capitulo dictae Dunelm. cathedr. ecclesiae Christi et Beatae Mariae Virginis et successoribus suis, quod decanus ecclesiae cathedralis illius pro tempore existens, omnes et singulos ejusdem ecclesia cathedralis inferiores officiarios et ministros, et alias praedictae Dunelm. cathedr. ecclesiae Christi et Beatae Mariae Virginis quascunque personas prout casus seu causa exiget, faciet, constituet, admittet, et acceptabit de tempore in tempus imperpetuum, ac eos et eorum quemlibet sic admissos vel admissum, ob causam legitimam non solum corrigere, sed etiam deponere, et ab eadem ecclesia cathedrali amovere et expellere possit et valeat, salvis nobis haeredibus et successoribus nostris, titulo, jure et auctoritate decanos, prebendarios, et omnes pauperes, ex liberalitate nostra ibidem viventes de tempore in tempus nominandi, assignandi, et perficiendi, qualitercunque et quotiescunque ecclesia cathedralis praedicta de decano praebendariis vel pauperibus praedictis, vel eorum aliquo per mortem, vel aliter vacare contigerit, aliquo in praesentibus suprascriptis in contrarium inde non obstantibus.
VOLUMUS insuper, et per praesentes concedimus prefatis decano et capitulo Dunelm. cathedr. ecclesia Christi et Beatae Mariae Virginis praedictae, quod ipsi pro se et successoribus suis habeant et habebunt has literas nostras patentes sub magno sigillo nostro Angliae debito modo sactas et sigillatas, absque aliquo fine seu feodo magno vel parvo, nobis in Hanaperio nostro seu alibi ad usum nostrum proinde quovis modo reddendo, solvendo, vel faciendo: Eo quod expressa mentio de vero valore annuo, aut de certitudine praemissorum, aut de aliis donis sive concessionibus per nos vel per aliquem pregenitorum nostrorum praefatis decano et capitulo et successoribus suis ante haec tempora in praesentibus minime facta existit, aut aliquo statuto, actu, ordinatione, provisione, sive restrictione, inde in contrarium fact. edit. ordinat. sive provisis, aut aliqua alia re, causa vel materia quacunque in aliquo non obstante.—IN cujus rei testimonium, has literas nostras fieri secimus patentes. Teste meipso apud Westmonasterium duodecimo die Maii, anno regni nostri tricesimo tertio.
The following is a Representation of the
CHAPTER SEAL,
cut pursuant to the above Charter▪ It has been gilt, and is still in being.
to this church, instituting therein a dean and twelve prebendaries, and ordaining, that instead of the title of
the cathedral church of the blessed Mary the Virgin, and St Cuthbert the bishop,
that the same should for ever thereafter bear the denomination of
the cathedral church of Christ and blessed Mary the Virgin.
He thereby nominated Hugh Whitehead the first dean; Edward Hyndmers, D. D. first prebendary; Roger Watson, D. D. the second; Thomas Sparke, B. D. suffragan of Berwick, the third; William Bennet, D. D. the fourth; William Todd, D. D. the fifth; Stephen Marley, B. D. the sixth; Robert Dalton, B. D. the seventh; John Towton, B. D. the eighth; Nicholas Marley, B. D. the ninth; Ralph Blaxton, the tenth; Robert Bennet, the eleventh; and Wm Watson, the twelfth. He made them and their successors a body corporate, by the name of
The dean and chapter of the cathedral church of Christ and blessed Mary the Virgin;
empowering them, under that denomination, to do all legal acts, and plead and be impleaded. He granted them all the scite of the monastery, and the ancient rights, liberties, and privileges thereof. The Endowment
The Endowment of the Cathedral Church of Durham by King Henry the Eighth,
16th May
1541.
HENRICUS Octavus, Dei gratia, Angliae et Franciae rex, fidei defensor, dominus Hiberniae, et in terra supremum caput Anglicanae ecclesiae. Omnibus ad quos praesentes literae pervenerint, salutem. Sciatis, quod de gratia nostra speciali, ac ex certa scientia et mero motu nostris, dedimus et concessimus, ac per praesentes damus et concedimus, decano et capitulo Dunelm. cathedr. ecclesiae Christi et beatae Mariae Virginis, totum illud manerium nostrum de Beaupere, in comitatu nostro Dunelm. cum suis juribus, membris, et pertinentiis universis, ac totum illud parcum nostrum vocatum Beaupere Parke in Beaupere praedicta; ac omnia illa maneria nostra de Witton-Gilbert, Elvett alias Elvett-hall, Sager
tanheigh, Wardley, Hedworthe, Pytingto
, Hasylden, Holme, Beulye, Wolston, Bellacies, Billingham, Ketton, Akley, Hett, Muggleswick, Houghwall, et Sh
keley, in dicto comitatu nostro Dunelm. cum corum juribus, membris, et pertinentiis universis, quae quidem maneria et cetera premissa cum suis pertinentiis universis nuper monasterio Sancti Cuthberti Dunolm. infra civitatem nostram Dunolm. modo dissoluto dudum spectabant et pertinebant, aut parcella possessionum ejusdem nuper monasterii extiterunt.—DAMUS etiam, ac per praesentes concedimus, praefatis decano et capitulo, totum illud scitum, septum, ambitum, circuitum, et precinctum, nuper manerii ac cellae de Fynkeloo, necnon ecclesiam, campanile, et cimiterium ejusdem cellae, cum omnibus domibus, aedificiis, orto et solo, tam infra quam extra, ac juxta scitum, ambitum, et precinctum ejusdem nuper cellae. Ac totum illud clausum pasturae vocatum Godriche-close continens per aestimationem sexdecim acras; ac totum illud clausum pasturae Querci continens per aestimationem duodecim acras terrae; ac totum illud clausum vocatum Lambe-close continens per aestimationem quatuor; ac totum illud clausum vocatum Hughden continens per aestimationem duodecim acras; ac totum illud clausum pasturae vocatum Towermer, continens per aestimationem decem acras; ac totum illud clausum terrae vocatum Coneygarth et Netherco
eygarthe, continens per aestimationem octo acras; ac totum illud clausum terrae arabilis vocatum West-close, continens per aestimationem quatuor acras; ac totum illud clausum vocatum Middle-close, continens per testimationem octo acras; ac totum illud clausum pasturae vocatum Horse-close, continens per aestimationem t
es acras; ac totum illud clausum vocatum Oxe-close; ac alterum clausum vocatum Cowe-close; ac totum ill
d clausum vocatum Pompe-close; ac totum illud molendinum aquaticum bladarum jacens juxta, et prope partam manerii et cellae praedictae; ac totam illam piscariam, et piscationem salmonum, ac liberam piscationem in aqua de Wyer juxta scitum manerii ac cellae praedictae jacentem et existentem, in dicto com. nostro Dunolm. quae dicto nuper monasterio dudum spectabant et pertinebant, aut parcellae possessionum ejusdem nuper monasterii extiterunt.
DAMUS etiam, ac per praesentes concedimas praesatis decano et capitulo, totum illud scitum, septum, circuitum, ambitum, et precinctum nuper cellae de insula sacra, ac totum ecclesiam, campanile et cimiterium ejusdem nuper cellae, cum omnibus domibus, aedificiis, columbariis, orto et solo, tam infra quam extra, ac juxta scitum, ambitum et precinctum ejusdem nuper cellae, ac quindecim cotagia ibidem, duo ortula, unum vocatum B
ggtts, alterum vocatum Coldingham-walls, ac tresdeeim parva ortula ibidem jacentia, et existentia, in parochia de Insula Sacra in comitatu nostro Northumbr. Nec non totam illam insulam nostram de Farne in
a mare ibidem, ac omnia terras, et tenementa nostra infra eandem insulam, cum omnibus aedificiis infra eandum insulam, cum uno tenemento ibidem vocato Monke-house, jacente et existente in dicto com. nostro Northum. quae dicto nuper monasterio dudum spectabant et pertinebant, aut parcellae possessionum ejusdem nuper monasterii extiterunt.
DAMUS et per praesentes concedimus praesatis decano et capitulo, omnia et singula messitagia, terras, tene
a, p
t
, pascuas, pasturas, boscos, subboscos, redditus, reversiones, servitia, redditus oneris redditus
, ac
super quibuscunque dimissionibus, seu concessionibus reservatos, ana
itate, annuale, redditus, firmas
, firmas redditus, et firmas tenentium et firmariorum nostrorum, mole
dina,
uas, pisea
,
as, ma
nces, stagna, vivaria. seoda tailitum, wardas, maritagia,
scaetas, relevia, h
rietta, nativas
ilianos cum corum seq
elis, ferias, marcatus, nundinas, tolneta, passagia, warrenat communias, ja
pna, vasta, brueras, mineras carbonum, pensiones, portiones, decimas, oblationes, curias letas, visum franci-plegii, ac omnia que ad visum franci-plegii pertinent seu imposterum spectare possint aut debent, assisam et assaiam panis, vini et cervisae, catalla, waviata, extrahuras, ac caetera omnia et singula hereditamenta, commoditates, et prosicua nostra quaecunque, cum omnibus et singulis suis pertinentiis, jacentibus sive existentibus in villis, campis, parochiis seu hamletis, de Beaupere, Witton-Gilbert, Elvett alias dict. Elvett-hall, Sagarstaneheigh, Hedworth, Wardeley, Pytington, Hasylden, Holme, Bewlye, Wolston, Bellacies, Billingham, Ketton, Akley, Hett. Muggleswick, Houghwall, et Shinkley in dicto com. nostro Dunelm. seu alibi ubicunque in eodem com. ac alibi ubicunque infra regnum nostrum Angliae, dictis maneriis seu eorem alicui quoquo modo spectantia vel pertinentia, aut ut membra vel parcellae eorundem maneriorum, seu eorum alicujus antehac habita, cognita, seu reputata existentia, aut cum eisdem maneriis, seu eorum aliquo, vel eorum aliquorum parcellis, locata, occupata, vel dimissa existentia; ac etiam omnia et singula maneria, dominia nostra, seoda militum, redditus, revertiones et servitia, wardas, maritagia, relevia, escaetas, jura, possessiones, ac omnia et singula, et cetera haereditamenta nostra quaecunque, in villis, campis, hameletis, et parochia de Fell
ig et Fallansby in parochia de Jarrow, et Hauthorne in parochia de Kello, Sylkisworth in parochia de Wermoth episcopi, Blaxton in parochia de Norton, Barneton in parochia de Gaynsford, Skrymingham in parochia de Haughton, Wynston, Somerhouses, Steyndropshire in parochia de Steyndrop, Woodhome et Cotone in parochia de Aykley, et Bromehall in parochia Sancti Oswaldi, in dicto com. nostro Dunolm.
DAMUS etiam, et per praesentes concedimus praefatis decano et capitulo, omnia illa maneria, messuagia, terras, tenementa, redditus, reversiones, servitia, prata, pascuas, pasturas, boscos, subboscos, communias, aquas, piscarias, mariscos, sirmas seodi, firmas redditus, super quibuscunque dimissionibus seu concessionibus reservatis, seoda militum, escaetas, relevia, curias letas, visum franci-plegii, ac omnia quae ad visum franci-plegii pertinent, catalla, waviata, extrahuras, libertates, minera carbonum, pensiones, portiones et decimas quascunque, ac cetera haereditamenta, commoditates et proficua nostra quaecunque, situata, jacentia, sive existentia in villis, campis, parochiis, seu hamletis, de Beaupere, Witton-Gilbert, Elvett, Rillie, Sagerstanbeigh, Gatty syde, Over-heworth, Tyne, Hubberb alias Hebborne, Wardley, Monkeby, Nether-heworth, Hedworthe, Symondsyde, Harton, Weston, Southe-Sheles, Jarro, Southwick, Wermouth monachorum, Fulwell, Sunderland, Dalton in vale, Moreton, Dalton, Thorpe juxta Hesington, Easte-Raynton, West-Raynton, Houghton, Moresley, Morehouse, North-Pytington, South-Pytington, Pytington, Eden, Hasylden monachorum, Holam, Hasylden, Brometost, Billingham, Hertilpole, Hart, Holme, Cowpon, Newton, Beuley, Bellaeyes, Wolston, Benton magna, Sadberie, Cleteham, Stayndrope, Morton, Tynmoth, Heighington, Newton, Ketton, Aklye, Ketton Newhouse, Cotte super moram, Nunstaynton, Bradberie, Sedgfeld, Chilton magna, Est-Merrington, Maynsforth, Fery super montem, Marington, Mid-Marington, West-Merington, Hett, Merington, Spenemore, Hunwick, Hasylwell in Hillhouse, Awkland, Landewe, Helton, Wolsingham, Shipleigh, Wakerseld, Burnenoppe, Rocoppe, Edmundbyers, Muggleswick, Grenecrofte, Cornesaw-raw, South-Lynthes, Lanchester, Londhouse, Rowligillet, Underside, Iveston, Busblade, Keyo, Peeth, Fulsurthe, Brome, Aldingrange, Houghall, Shinekley, Crokesdale, Hunter-banks, ac in parochia Sancti Oswaldi in dicto com. nostro Dunolm. ac in Shoreswoode in parochia de Norham, Herbottell in parochia de Halystane, Walesend in parochia de Jerro, ac in Pilgram-streete, et in parochia Omnium sanctorum infra villam Novi Castri super Tynam, et in Prudehoo in parochia de Ovinghame in com. nostro Northumbr. Quae quidem maneria, ac cetera promissa, dicto nuper monasterio Sancti Cuthberti Dunolm. dudum spectabant et pertinebant, aut parcellae possessionum ejusdem nuper monasterii extiterunt; ac omnia illa messiragia, burgagia, domos, aedilicia, sheppas, celaria, sola
ia, terras, tenementa, redditus, reversiones, servitia, molendina, tofta, cotagia, gardina, pentioner, portiones, decimas, ac cetera hereditamenta nostra quaecunque scituata, jacentia, seu existentia in parochia Sancti Nicholai, Sancti Egidii, Sancti Oswaldi, Sanctae Mariae Magdalenae, et Sanctae Margaretae, ac in parochia de North-balye, et South-baylye infra dictam civitatem nostram Dunolm. aut in suburbiis ejusdem civitatis, seu alibi ubicumque in cadem civitate, vel in suburbiis ejusdem civitatis, quae dicto nuper monasterio Sancti Cuthberti dudum spectabant, et pertinebant, aut parcellae possessionum ejusdem nuper monasterii
titerunt.
DAMUS et per praesentes concedimus, praesatis decano et capitulo omnes illas rectorias, et ecclesias nostras Sancti Oswaldi, ac de Pytington, Hasylden, Dalton in valle, Billingham, Akley, Heighington et Merrington in dicto cum. nostro Dunolm. Ac etiam omnes decimas granorum et soeni infra et de villatis de Shinkley, Aldurham, How
h
ll, Brome, Aldingrange. Bornehall, Bellaeyes, Crokehall, Nerthwastes, Newton, H
g
ouse, H
bethouse, Bysshopmea
low, Elvett grange, Aldurham et Durham; ac omnes minutas decimas cum decinus ortulorum et alteragiis infra villatas praedictas, et infra dictam parochiam Sancti Oswaldi; ac omnes
im
rum in villatis de North-Pytington, South-Pytington, Shaldforth, Hepton super montem, Haswell-grange, South-Shurburn, Northe-Shurburn et Ludworth infra parochiam de Pytington praedictam;
rum in villatis de
sylden, Hardwick, Shoreghton, Eden, Huton, et Holome infra parochiam de Hasylden praedictam; ac decimas garbarum in villatis de Acley, Brafferton, Preston, Rickwell magna et parva, Ketton, Nun-Staynton et Trimdon infra parochiam de Acley praedictam; necnon decimas granorum et soeni de Billingham, Newton, Cowpon et Wolston, et Beuley infra parochiam de Billingham praedictam; ac etiam decimas granorum in villatis de Heighington, Walworthe, Newbigging, Middrig-grange, Killerbye, Redworth, Scole-acley, Thickley infra parochiam de Heighington praedictam; necnon decimas granortum in villatis de East-Merington, Chilton parva, et Chilton magna, Ferye super montem, et Hett infra parochiam de East-Merington praedictam; ac decimas garbarum de villatis de Wallefend, Willington, Wardley, Nether-heiworth, Felling, Monkton, Harton, Westow, Sheldheugh, parcellas rectoriae de Jarro; ac decimas garbarum in vill. de Southwick, parcellas rectoriae de Wermouth monachorum: Necnon illam annuam pensionem sex solidorum et octo denariorum annuatim exeuntem de rectoria sive ecclesia de Dynssall; ac totam illam pensionem, sive annualem redditum quadraginta solidorum exeuntem et annuatim percipiendam de vicaria de Midleham; ac totam pensionem sive annualem redditum viginti solidorum exeuntem de collegio de Stayndropp pro ecclesia de Stayndropp; ac totam illam pensionem sive annualem redditum quinquaginta trium solidorum et quatuor denariorum exeuntem et annuatim percipiendam de vicaria de Heighington; ac totam illam pensionem sive annualem redditum decem solidorum exeuntem et annuatim percipiendam de capella de Whitworth; ac totam illam pensionem sive annualem redditum trium solidorum et quatuor denariorum exeuntem et annuatim percipiendam de magistro hospitalis Sancti Edmundi in Gayttiside in dicto com. nostro Dunolm. quae dicto nuper monasterio Sancti Cuthberti Dunolm. dudum spectabant et pertinebant, aut parcellae possessionum ejusdem nuper monasterii extiterunt.
DAMUS etiam, ac per praesentes concedimus, praesatis decano et capitulo totam illam rectoriam sive ecclesiam nostram de Berwick super Tweede, cum decimis piscium salmonum captorum in aqua de Tweede ibidem, ac omnes illas rectorias nostras de Norham, Ellingham, Edlingham, Bedlington, et Bywell-Peter in dicto com nostro Northumbr. ac decimas granorum et foeni in villatis de Orde, Spittell, Twedmouth, Morton, Edmondhill, Heton juxta Twysell, Shoreswood, Hornecliff, Thornton, Duddo, Berington, Corwell, Tylmouth, Twysell, Newbigginge, Norham, Felkington, Trimdon, Grindon rigge, Tindall-house, Longrig, Unthank et Castlefeldes: ac decimas agnellorum, lanae, lini, canapii, ac decimas piscariae cum decimis libri quadragesimal. ibidem infra parochiam de Norham praedictam, ac etiam decimas garbarum in villa de Ellingham, Preston, Doxforth, Northe-Charleton, et Southe-Charleton infra parochiam de Ellingham praedict. ac decimas granorum in villa de Edlyngham, Lamethon, Bolton, Aberwick; cum decimis minutis in Bolton praedict. infra dictam parochiam de Edlyngham praedictam ac decimas granorum et foeni in villatis de Ancrofte, Al
erden, Bowlsden, Gatherwick, Barmore, Lowick, et Kylay, parcellas rectoriae de Insula sacra, quae dicto nuper monasterio Sancti Cuthberti Dunolm. dudum spectabant et pertinebant, aut parcellae possessionum ejusdem nuper monasterii extiterunt.
DAMUS et per praesentes concedimus praefatis decano et capitulo, totum illud scitum, circuitum, ambitum, et praecinctum ruinosum nuper collegii vocat. Duresme colledge infra villam Oxon. in comitatu nostro Oxon. ac totam illam ecclesiam sive capellam, campanile, et cimiterium ejusdem nuper collegii, una cum omnibus domibus, aedificiis, pomariis, gardinis, ortis et solo, tam infra quam extra, juxta ac prope scitum, ambitum, et praecinctum ejusdem nuper collegii; ac totum illud tenementum in Hanbarow in dicto comitatu nostro Oxon. ac totam illam rectoriam et ecclesiam nostram de Frampton in comitatu nostro Lincoln. ac totam illam rectoriam et ecclesiam nostram de Ruddington in comitatu nostro Nottingham; ac omnes illas rectorias et ecclesias nostras de Fishelack, Bossall, Brantingham in comitatu nostro Ebor. ac quandam annuitatem sive annualem redditum quatuor librarum exeuntem et annuatim percipiendam, de rectoria sive ecclesia nostra de Northallerton in dicto comitatu nostro Ebor. ad festum Annuntiationis Beatae Mariae Virginis, et Sancti Michaelis Archangeli annuatim solvendam; ac totam illam pensionem, sive annualem redditum sexdecim librarum, exeuntem et annuatim percipiendam de vicario de Northallerton praedict. pro tempore existente: Quae quidem rectoriae, annuitates, ac pensiones praedictae, dicto nuper collegio, ac praedicto nuper monasterio Sancti Cuthberti Dunolm. praedict. dudum spectabant, et pertinebant, aut parcellae possessionum ejusdem nuper collegii et dicti nuper monasterii extiterunt.
DAMUS etiam, et per praesentes concedimus, praesatis decano et capitulo, omnia et singula maneria, dominia, messuagia, aedificia, terras, tenementa, redditus, reversiones servitia, glebas, grangias, prata, pascuas, pasturas, boscos, subboscos, feoda militum, escaetas, relevia, wardas, maritagia, herietta, communias, vasta, jampna, brueras, decimus, oblationes, obventiones, pensiones, portiones, ac cetera omnia et singula prosicua, possessiones et hereditamenta nostra quaecunque, scituata, jaccutia, et existentia in villis, paroch
is, campis, seu hamletis Sancti Oswaldi, ac de et Pittington, Hasilden, Dalton in valle, Billingham, Acley, Heighington, Merington alias East-Merington, Shineley, Aldurham, Houghall, Brome, Aldingrange,
rne-hall, Bellacies, Croke-hall, Northwaysles. Newton, Haghouse, Herber-house, Bushopp-meadow, Elvett-grange, Aldurham, Durham, North-Pittington, South-Pittington, Shaldforth, Hepton super moutem, Haswell-grange, South-Shurburne, North-Shurburne, Ludworth, Hardwick, Sheroton, Eden, Hutton, Holam, Coldhaiselden, Dalton, Dalden, Brafferton, Preston, Reckwell magna et parva, Ketton, Nun-Staynton, Grindon, Newby, Cowpon, Wolston, Beauley, Walworth, Newbigging, Middrigg-grange, Killerbie, Redworth, Schole-Acley, Thickle, East-Merington, Chilton parva, Chilton magna, Ferry super montem, Hett, Wallesend, Willington, Wardley, Nether-heiworth, Felling, Monkton, Harby, Westow, Sheldheugh et Southwick, praedictis in dicto comitatu nostro Dunolm. ac in Berwick super Twede, Norham, Ellingham, Edlyingham, Bedlington, Bywell-Peter, Ord, Spittile, Twedemouth, Morton, Edmundhills, Heton juxta Twysell, Shoreswood, Horne-cliff, Thornton, Duddo, Berington, Corwell, Tylmouth, Twysell, Newbigginge, Felkington, Grindon, Grindonrigg, Tindall-house, Langrig, Unthank, Castlefeldes, Preston, Doxforth, North-Charleton, South-Charleton, Lamethon, Bolton, Aberwick, Ancroft, Allerden, Boulsden, Gatherwick, Barmore, Lowick, et Kylaw praedictis in comitatu nostro Northumbr. necnon in Frampton praedict. in dicto comitatu nostro Lyncoln, ac in Ruddington praedict. in dicto comitatu nostro Nottingham; ac etiam de et in Fishelak, Bossall et Brantingham praedict. in dicto comitatu nostro Ebor. sive alibi ubicunque infra regnum nostrum Angliae, dictis rectoriis, grangiis, et ecclesiis, seu earum alicui quoquo modo spectantia, vel pertinentia, aut ut pars vel parcella carundem rectoriarum, grangiarum, et ecclesiarum, sive earum alicujus antehac cognita seu reputata existentia.
Damus etiam, ac per praesentes concedimus praesatis decano et capitulo omnes et omnimodas advocationes, donationes, nominationes, collationes, praesentationes, liberas dispositiones, et jura patronatus, omnium et singularum vicariarum ecclesiarum de Dedinsall, Acliff, Heighington, Merington, Billingham, Pittington, Hasilden, Dalton in valle, Edmundbyers, et Kymblesworth, in dicto comitatu nostro Dunolm. ac vicariae ecclesiae parochialis Sancti Oswaldi infra civitatem Dunolm. in eodem comitatu; ac etiam de Berwick super Twede, Norham, Branxton, Ellingham, Edlyngham, Bedlington, Meldon, et Bywell-Peter, in dicto comitatu nostro Northumbriae; necnon de Fishelake, Brantingham, Northallerton et Bossall praedictis in dicto comitatu nostro Ebor. ac de Frampton praedict. in dicto comitatu nostro Lyncoln. ac de Ruddington praedict. in comitatu nostro Nottingham; ac advocationes, nominationes, donationes, et liberas dispositiones, omnium et singulorum curatorum, cantaristarum et capellanorum in ecclesiis de Witton-Gilbert, Mugleswick, Whitworth, Croxdaill, et Sanctae Hildae juxta Shelles in dicto comitatu nostro Dunolm. in ecclesia de Wallesend in dicto comitatu nostro Northumbriae; ac etiam advocationes, nominationes, donationes, presentationes, et liberas dispositiones omnium illarum cantariarum, et cantaristarum in cantariis Beatae Mariae in ecclesia Sancti Oswaldi in dicta civitate nostra Dunolm. Sanctae Mariae in capella Sanctae Margaretae in eadem civitate, Sancti Jacobi de Elvett in eadem civitate, Beatae Mariae in ecclesia Sancti Nicholai in eadem civitate, ac in cantariis Beatae Mariae in ecclesia de Northe-Pittington in dicto comitatu nostro Dunolm. Beatae Mariae in ecclesia de Dedinsall in eodem comitatu, in capella de Haverton in eodem comitatu, in capella de Herington in eodem comitatu, ac Beatae Mariae in ecclesia de Hesington in eodem comitatu, necnon Sancti Johannis Baptistae in ecclesia de Bywell-Peter Northumbriae; ac advocationes, nominationes, donationes, et jura patronatus cujuslibet vicariarum, curarum, sive cantariarum praedictarum; ac etiam omnes et omnimodas advocationes, nominationes, donationes, praesentationes, liberas dispositiones, et jura patronatus omnium et singularum vicararium ecclesiarum, cantariarum, curarum, sive capellarum dictis maneriis, sive eorum alicui quoquo modo spectantium vel pertinentium, aut in dicta civitate Dunolm. vel in suburbiis ejusdem civitatis existentium, quae dicto nuper monasterio Sancti Cuthberti Dunolm. dudum spectabant et pertinebant, aut parcellae possessionum ejusdem nuper monasterii existentiis, adeo plene et integre, ac in tam amplis modo et forma, prout ultimus prior et nuper conventus dicti nuper monasterii Sancti Cuthberti Dunolm. vel corum aliquis, aut aliquis vel aliqui praedecessorum suorum, in jure nuper monasterii illius, alio tempore ante dissolutionem ejusdem nuper monasterii, vel ante quam nuper monasterium illud ad manus nostras devenit, seu devenire debuit, praedictum
a
ria, terras, tenementa, ac cetera praemissa, vel aliquas inde parcellas habuerunt, tennorum, vel gavisi fuerunt, habuit, tenuit, vel gavisus suit, seu habere, tenere, vel gaudere debuerunt aut debuit, et adeo plene et integre, ac in tam amplis modo et forma, prout ea omnia et singula ad manus nostras ratione vel praetextu dissolutionis dicti nuper monasterii, aut ratione vel praetextu alicujus cartae donationis, concessionis, vel con
nationis per dictum nuper priorem, et nuper conventum dicti nuper monasterii sub figillo suo, conventu
i nobis inde consect
e, vel aliter quocunque modo devenerunt, seu devenire debuerunt, ac in manibus nostris jam existuat, seu existere debent, vel deberent; habenda, tenenda, et gaudenda, omnia et singula praedicta maneria, messuagia, gardina, terras, tenementa, redditus, reversiones, servicia, curias letas, libertates, rectorias, c
ntarias, capellas, advocationes ecclesiarum, jura patronatus, decimas, pensiones, portiones, ac c
tera omnia et singula praemissa superius expressa et specificata, cum omnibus et singulis suis juribus, membris, et portinentiis universis, praefatis decano et capitulo Dunolm. cathedralis ecclesiae Christi et
Mariae Virgi
, et eorum successoribus imperpetuum, tenenda de nobis haeredibus et successoribus
lus
it. p
et perpetuam demotinam.
Ac etiam redditus nobis, haeredibus, et successoribus nostris ad curiam nostram augmentationum, reventionum coronae nostrae annuatim, extunc imperpetuum ducentas octodecim libras legalis monetae Angliae ad festum Sancti Michaelis Archangeli, in plenam recompensationem et satisfactionem servitiorum, et singularum pecuniarum summarum, et cujuslibet pecuniae summae annualis redditus, sive decimae partis nobis, haeredibus, et successoribus ratione praemissorum, per decanum et capitulum praedict. et successores suos, seu corum aliquem sive aliquos, vel per aliquem sive aliquos successorum suorum, aut per aliquam personam, seu aliquas personas quascunque, quae ad decanatum ecclesiae cathedralis praedict. seu ad aliquam praebendam in eadem ecclesia, sive ad aliquod beneficium, officium, dignitatem, vel aliquam promotionem quamcunque in ecclesia cathedrali praedicta, nunc nominat. seu appunctuat. vel imposterum nominand. vel appunctuand. virtute seu ratione vel vigore cujusdam actus parliamenti in anno regni nostri vicesimo sexto editi pro primis fructibus, reversionibus et proficuis, aut nomine primorum fructuum, reversionum et proficuorum, maneriorum, terrarum, tenementorum, et ceterorum praemissorum unius anni, vel pro uno anno, vel pro primis fructibus, reversionibus et proficuis decanatus, praebendae, vel alterius beneficii, officii, dignitatis, vel alius promotionis dictae ecclesiae cathedralis praedictae, vel annui valoris alicujus annualis redditus, pensionis, sive annuitatis, aut alterius pecuniae summae cujuscunque, de vel pro praedictis maneriis, terris, tenementis, rectoriis, ac ceteris praemissis, sive de aliqua inde parcella exeunt. nobis, haeredibus et successoribus nostris faciend. solvend. vel reddend. aut parcell. proficuorum praedictorum, maneriorum, et ceterorum praemissorum, seu alicujus inde parcellae existentis, ac assignat. vel limitat. aut assignand. seu limitand. dictis decano et praebendariis, vel eorum alicui aut alicui alii personae, seu aliquibus aliis personis, et eorum successoribus, aut successorum eorum alicujus ad aliquod beneficium, officium, vel dignitatem, in dicta ecclesia nunc promot. aut assignat. seu imposterum promovend. seu assignand. pro annuali redditu, seu pensione, vel nomine annualis redditus, sive decimae partis perpetuae, seu pensionis existen. ad decimam partem annui valoris maneriorum, terrarum, tenementorum, et ceterorum praemissorum, aut decanatus ecclesiae cathedralis praedict. aut praebendarum, beneficiorum, officiorum, et dignitatum praedict. aut aliorum beneficiorum quorumcunque in eadem ecclesia, aut alicujus praebendae, beneficii, officii, dignitatis, vel promotionis in dicta ecclesia, vel eorum alicujus, vel ad annualem redditum, pensionem, sive ad decimam partem annui valoris de praedictis maneriis, terris, tenementis, rectoriis, ac ceteris praemissis, sive de aliqua inde parcella exeunte seu solvend. aut parcell. proficuorum praedictorum, maneriorum, ac ceterorum praemissorum, seu alicujus inde parcellae existen. aut assignat. vel limitat. aut assignand. vel limitand. dictis decano et praebendariis, vel eorum alicui, aut alicui alii personae, sive aliquibus aliis personis et eorum successoribus, aut successorum eorum alicujus ad aliquod beneficium, officium, seu dignitatem in dicta ecclesia nunc promot. aut assignat. seu imposterum promovend. sive assignand per aliquam personam quamcunque, vel aliquas personas quascunque modo, vel ad aliquod tempus imposterum, aliquo modo solvend. faciend. et reddend.
SCIATIS insuper, quod nos de gratia nostra speciali, pro nobis, haeredibus, et successoribus nostris per praesentes, pardonamus, remittimus, et relaxamus praefatis decano et capitulo et successoribus suis imperpetuum, ac omnibus et singulis personis, ac unicuique personae, qui nunc sunt, aut est, vel imposterum erunt, sive erit decanus ecclesiae cathedralis praedictae, vel prebendarius in eadem ecclesia, seu promotus ad aliquod beneficium, officium, vel dignitatem in eadem ecclesia, omnes et singulas pecuniarum summas, et quamcunque pecuniae summam, nobis haeredibus, aut successoribus nostris, per praefatum decanum et capitulum aut successores suos, vel per quemcunque decanum ecclesiae cathedralis, seu per quemcunque praebendarium in eadem ecclesia, aut per aliquam personam quamcunque, seu aliquas personas quaseunque, quae nunc est aut sunt, vel quae imposterum erit vel erunt promota vel promotae, ad aliquod beneficium, officium, dignitatem in ecclesia praedicta, tam pro primis fructibus, reversionibus et proficuis, aut nomine primorum fructuum, reversionum et prosicuorum, praedictorum, maneriorum, terrarum, tenementorum, et ceterorum praemissorum vel eorum alicujus, seu alicujus inde parcellae, aut annui valoris decanatus ecclesiae praedictae vel prebendae, aut alterius beneficii, officii, vel dignitatis cujuscunquem ecclesia cathedrali praedicta, ad quem, quam, vel ad quod promotus, assignatus, vel appunctuatus est, vel ad aliquod tempus imposterum erit, vel ad quem, quam vel ad quod promoti, assignati, appunctuati, vel collati erunt, pro annuali redditu decimae partis sive pensionis, vel annui valoris alicujus annualis redditus, pensionis, sive annuitatis, aut alterius pecuniae summae cujuscunque de praedictis maneriis, terris, tenementis, rectoriis, ac ceteris praemissis, aut de aliqua inde parcella exeunt. seu solvend. aut parcell. proficuorum praedictorum maneriorum et ceterorum praemissorum, seu alicujus inde parcellae existent. aut assignat. vel limitat. aut assignand. vel limitand. dictis dec. et praebendariis, vel eorum alicui, aut alicui aliae personae, seu aliquibus aliis personis et eorum successoribus aut successorum eorum alicujus, ad aliquod beneficium, officium, vel dignitatem in dicta ecclesia nunc promot. seu assignat. aut imposterum promovend. seu assignand. vel nomine annualis redditus decimae partis sive pensionis, extendentis ad annuum valorem decimae partis, vel ad decimam partem omnium et singulorum praedict. maneriorum, terrarum, tenementorum, et ceterorum praemissorum, vel eorum alicujus, vel alicujus inde parceliae, vel decanatus ecclesiae cathedralis praedictae, vel alicujus praebendae, beneficii, officii, dignitatis, aut alius promotionis cujuscunque in eadem ecclesia, vel ad decimam partem annui valoris, redditus, pensionis. sive annuitatis, aut alterius summae cujuscunque praespecificatae, aut annui valoris eorum alicujus, aut virtute, seu ratione actus parliament: editi praedicto anno vicesimo sexto regni nostri, nobis, haeredibus, et successoribus nostris solvendas, reddendas, vel faciendas; praedicta summa ducentarum octodecim librarum per nos, ut praemittitur, reservata tantummodo excepta, et nobis haeredibus et successoribus nostris annuatim reservata.
ET praeterea, de uberiori gratia nostra pro nobis, haeredibus et successoribus nostris, per praesentes pardonamus, remittimus, et relaxamus Hugoni Whiteheade sacrae theologiae professori nunc decano ecclesiae cathedralis praedictae, ac Edvardo Hyndmers sacrae theologiae professori, Rogero Watson sacrae theologiae professori, Thomae Spark in sacra theologia baccalario, Willielmo Bennet sacrae theologiae professori, Willielmo Todd sacrae theologiae professori, Stephano Marley in sacra theologia baccalario, Roberto Dalton in sacra theologia baccalario, Johanni Towton in sacra theologia baccalario, Nicholao Marley in sacra theologia baccalario, Radulpho Blaxton presbitero, Roberto Bennet presbitero, Willielmo Watson presbitero, modo praebendariis in ecclesia cathedrali praedicta, et eorum cuilibet, omnes et singulas pecuniarum summas, et quamcunque pecuniae summam, per praefatos Hugonem Whiteheade, Edwardum Hyndmers, Rogerum Watson, Thomam Spark, Willielmum Bennet, Willielmum Todd, Stephanum Marley, Robertum Dalton, Johannem Towton, Nicholaum Marley, Radulphum Blaxston, Robertum Bennet, et Willielmum Watson, vel eorum aliquem, nobis pro primis fructibus, reventionibus, et proficuis, aut nomine primorum fructuum et proficuorum, seu nomine primi fructus decanatus praedicti, et praebendarum in ecclesia praedicta, vel eorum alicujus, vel alicujus annualis redditus, pensionis, sive portionis, aut alterius summae cujuscunque eis pro separalibus portionibus suis, in ecclesia cathedrali predicta limitae aut assignatae, vel limitandae seu assignandae, vel pro annuali redditu decimae partis, seu nomine pensionis extendentis ad decimam partem valoris decanatus praedicti, vel prebendarum praedictarum, vel earum alicujus, vel alicujus redditus, pensionis, sive portionis, aut eorum alicujus, eis seu eorum alicui pro parte, seu pensione sua limitat. aut assignat. vel limitand. aut assignand. in eadem ecclesia solvendas, faciendas, vel reddendas.
ET de habundantiori gratia nostra pro nobis, haeredibus et successoribus nostris regibus hujus regni Angliae, per praesentes damus et concedimus praefatis decano et capitulo et successoribus suis imperpetuum, omnes et singulas pecuniarum summas, et quamcunque pecuniae summam per praedictum decanum et capitulum et successores suos, aut aliquem vel aliquos successorum suorum quemcunque seu quoscunque, vel per decanum ecclesiae cathedralis praedictae, et praebendarios, et alias personas in eadem ecclesia, vel per eorum aliquem, aut aliquam personam quamcunque, seu aliquas personas quascunque, quae ad aliquod tempus imposterum erit vel erunt nominata, assignata, seu appunctuata vel nominatae, assignatae, seu appunctuatae ad decanatum praedictum, vel ad aliquam praebendam in eadem ecclesia, seu ad aliquod beneficium, officium, dignitatem, vel promotionem in eadem ecclesia, vel praefactum decanum praedictum, vel praebendarium in dicta ecclesia, vel promot. aut promot. ad aliquod beneficium, officium vel dignitatem in ecclesia cathedr. praedicta, nobis, haeredibus aut successoribus nostris regibus hujus regni Angliae, virtute aut ratione alicujus actus parliamenti editi in praedicto anno vicesimo sexto regni nostri pro praemissis, vel aliquo praemissorum solvendas vel reddendas; praedicta summa ducentarum octodecim librarum per nos, ut praefertur reservata, tantummodo excepta. Habend. et gandend. omnes et singulas dictas pecuniarum summas, et quamlibet pecuniae summam praedicta, excepta tantummodo prae-excepta, praesatis decano et capitulo, et successoribus suis imperpetuum, de dono nostro speciali, absque compoto, seu aliquo alio proinde nobis, haeredibus, aut successoribus nostris reddend. solvend. vel faciend.
ET ulterius volumus, ac per praesentes pro nobis, haeredibus, et successoribus nostris concedimus praesatis decano et capitulo et successoribus suis, ac cuilibet personae quae nunc est vel imposterum erit decan. ecclesiae praedictae, aut praebendarius in eadem ecclesia, vel nominatus, appunctuatus, seu promotus ad aliquod beneficium, officium, vel dignitatem in eadem ecclesia, quod nos, haeredes, et successores nostri non habebimus, petemus, clamabimus, vel vindicabimus aliquos primos fructus, reventiones seu proficua, vel aliquam quamcunque pecuniae summam, pro primis fructibus, reventionibus et prosicuis praedictorum maneriorum et ceterorum praemissorum vel eorum alicujus, vel alicujus inde parcellae, aut pro primis fructibus alicujus annualis redditus pensionis, sive annuitatis, aut alterius summae prae-specificatae, aut nomine primi fructus eorundem, vel eorum alicujus inde parcellae, aut aliquam pensionem, sive annualem redditum, extendentem ad decimam partem, annui valoris praedictorum maneriorum. ac ceterorum praemissorum, vel eorum alicujus, aut alicujus inde parcellae, vel ad decimam partem alicujus annualis redditus, pensionis, sive annuitatis, aut alterius summae cujuscunque prae-specificatae, necnon aliquam quamcunque summam, vel aliam rem quamcunque, virtute seu ratione dicti actus parliamenti editi in praedicto anno vicesimo sexto regni nostri praedicti, per praedict. decanum et capitulum, aut successores suos, vel aliquam personam quamcunque, que nunc est, aut ad aliquod tempus imposterum erit decanus ecclesiae predictae cathedralis, aut praebendarius in eadem ecclesia, aut promotus ad aliquod beneficium, officium, sive dignitatem in eadem ecclesia proinde reddendam, solvendam, vel faciendam; praeter praedictam summam ducentarum octodecim librarum superius per nos, ut praemittitur, annuatim reservatam; sed quod tam praedicti decanus, praebendarii et capitulum, et successores sui, quam omnes et singulae personae et persona, qui nunc sunt, aut est, aut imposterum erit decanus ecclesiae praedictae, aut praebendarius in eadem ecclesia, aut promotus ad aliquod beneficium, officium, aut dignitatem in eadem ecclesia, erunt et erit exonerat. et acquiet. erga nos, haeredes et successores nostros per praesentes, de omnibus et singulis denariorum summis, et qualibet pecuniae summa nobis, haeredibus, et successoribus nostris, virtute seu ratione dicti actus parliamenti editi anno vicesimo sexto regni nostri, pro decanatu dictae ecclesiae, vel pro aliqua praebenda, vel aliquo beneficio, officio, dignitate, vel promotione in eadem ecclesia, ac qualibet re concernenti eadem decanatum, praebend. beneficia, officia, dignitates, et promotiones, seu eorum aliquod, aliquam, vel aliquae reddendis vel solvendis; aliqua clausa, materia, sententia, re, articulo, ordinatione, promotione, donatione, concessione; aliqua clausa quacunque, in dicto statuto contenta, sive specificata, in contrarium non obstante.
AC etiam volumus pro nobis, haeredibus, et successoribus nostris, ac per praesertes concedimus praefatis decano et capitulo et successoribus suis intrare in omnia maneria, terras, tenementa, redditus, servitia, et cetera praemissa, ac in quamlibet inde parcellam, ac ea gaudere, habere, et tenere, et successoribus suis, juxta tenorem vim, formam, et effectum harum literarum nostrarum patentium, ac quibuscunque personis, et cuicunque personae, quae nunc sunt, aut est, vel imposterum erunt, sive erit decanus ecclesiae praedictae, aut praebendarius in eadem ecclesia, vel promotus ad aliquod beneficium, officium, vel dignitatem, in eadem ecclesia, quod licitum erit eis et eorum cuilibet intrare, capere, et habere actualem et realem possessionem de hoc, ad quod nominatus, appunctuatus, aut promotus fuerit in ecclesia cathedrali praedicta, ac habere, capere, et percipere exitus, reventiones, et proficua inde, ad usum suum proprium, absque aliqua alia satisfactione, vel solutione ad usum nostrum, haeredum, et successorum nostrorum, pro aliquibus primis fructibus, reventionibus, aut proficuis illius, ad quod est vel erit nominatus, appunctuatus, vel promotus in ecclesia cathedrali praedicta, et absque aliqua licentia, concordia, secta, commissione, aut prosecutione alicujus liberationis, haeredibus, aut successoribus nostris, aut officiariis nostris, in quibuscunque curiis nostris, proinde fienda, praeterquam de praedicta annuali summa ducentarum octodecim librarum nobis, haeredibus, et successoribus nostris, pro decimis et primis fructibus, omnium et singulorum maneriorum, terrarum, et tenementorum prae-concessorum, ut praefertur, reservata.
ET insuper volumus, et pro nobis, haeredibus, et successoribus nostris regibus hujus regni Angliae, per praesentes concedimus praefatis decano et capitulo, et successoribus suis, ac quibuscunque personis, aut cuicunque personae, qui nunc sunt, aut est, seu imposterum erunt, vel erit decanus ecclesiae cathedr. praed. aut praebendarius in eadem ecclesia, aut promot. nominat. sive assignat. ad aliquod beneficium, officium, vel dignitatem, in eadem ecclesia, quod licet eis, et eorum cuilibet, ut intraverint, ceperint, et habuerint, intraverit, ceperit, et habuerit actualem et realem possessionem de tali praedicto decanatu, praebend. beneficio, officio, vel dignitate, ad quem, quam, vel ad quod nominat. appunctuat. aut promot. fuerit vel fuerint in ecclesia cathed. praedicta, necnon habuerint, ceperint, et perciperint, habuerit, ceperit, et perciperit exitus, proficua, redditus, reversiones, et emolumenta hujusmodi decanatus, praebendae, beneficii, officii, dignitatis, sive promotionis in eadem ecclesia, vel corum alicujus, absque aliqua satisfactione vel solutione ad usum nostrum, haeredum, aut successorum nostrorum, pro aliquibus primis fructibus, reventionibus, et proficuis praemissorum, aut eorum alicujus, aut pro aliquibus primis fructibus decanatus, praebendae, aut beneficii, officii, vel dignitatis in eadem ecclesia cathedr. ad quem, quam, vel ad quod nunc sunt aut est, aut ad aliquod tempus imposterum erit, vel erunt, nominatus, appunctuatus, aut promotus, vel nominati, appunctuati, aut promoti, absque aliqua compositione aut agreamento proinde siend. Tamen nos, haeredes, aut successores nostri, aut aliquis alius, pro nobis, haeredibus, aut successoribus nostris, aut nomine nostro, haeredum, aut successorum nostrorum, ea de causa non inquietabimus, impetiemus, perturbabimus, nec molestabimus praedictum decanum et capitulum aut successores suos, aut aliquam personam quamcunque ad decanatum in ecclesia cathedral. praedicta, vel ad aliquam praebendam in eadem ecclesia, aut ad aliquod beneficium, officium, dignitatem, seu promotionem in eadem ecclesia nominat. assignat. aut appunctuat. vel nominand. assignand. vel appunctuand. de pro vel concernenti aliquam introisionem, vel aliam offensam, sive sorisfacturam quamcunque malignam praemissorum, sed quod tam decanus et capitulum et successores sui, ac omnes et singuli personae quaecunque, quae ad decanatum ecclesiae cathedr. praedictae, vel ad aliquam praebendam in eadem ecclesia, aut ad aliquod beneficium, officium, dignitatem, aut aliam promotionem quamcunque in eadem ecclesia, nunc nominat. assignat. aut appunctat. vel ad aliquod tempus imposterum nominand. assignand. seu appunctuand. erunt et erit penitus exonerati, acquietati, perdonati, el relaxati, ac exoneratus, acquietatus, perdonatus, et relaxatus, ergo nos, haeredes, et successores nostros, et quemlibet nostrum de fine pro omnibus et singulis hujusmodi ingressionibus, intrusionibus, offensis, penalitatibus, et sorissacturis, et aliis quibuscunque limitatis aut specificatis in aliquo statuto aut actu parliamenti edito praedicto anno vicesimo sexto regni nostri, concernente solutionem primi fructus, et solutionis annualis redditus, aut pensionis extendentis an annuum valorem alicujus beneficii, dignitatis, officii, vel promotionis, seu eorum alicujus, aliquo statuto, ordinatione, provisione, aut actu edito in eod. anno vicesimo sexto regni nostri in contrarium non obstante.
VOLENTES insuper, et per praesentes firmiter injungendo praecipientes omnibus et singulis archiepiscopis et episcopis infra noc regnum nostrum Angliae, ac cancellario curiae decimarum et primorum fructuum nostrorum, necnon omnibus et singulis officiariis, ministris nostris, haeredum, ac successorum nostrorum, et eorum cuilibet, quod ipsi, aut eorum aliquis, aliquo modo non impetient, perturbabunt, vexabunt, inquietabunt, aut molestabunt, nec impetiet, perturbabit, vexabit, inquietabit, seu molestabit praedictum decanatum et successores suos, seu eorum aliquem, aut aliquam personam quamcunque, quae nunc est, vel ad aliquod tempus imposterum erit decanus ecclesiae cathedr. praedictae, aut praebendarius in eadem ecclesia, seu nominat. assignat. appunctuat. aut promot. ad aliquod beneficium, officium, seu dignitatem in eadem ecclesia, de, pro, aut concernent. solutionem alicujus summae, aut rei cujuscunque pro primis fructibus, reventionibus, aut proficuis, aut nomine primi fructus praemissorum, aut eorum alicujus, vel decanatus ecclesiae cathedr. praedictae, aut alicujus praebendae, officii, beneficii, aut dignitatis in dicta ecclesia cathedr. vel de, pro, aut concernen. solutionem alicujus summae aut rei cujuscunque pro aut nomine annualis redditus, sive pensionis extendentis ad decimam partem valoris, aut annui valoris praemissorum, aut eorum alicujus, aut decanatus ecclesiae cathedralis praedictae, aut alicujus praebendae, beneficii, officii, aut dignitatis in eadem ecclesia, aut ratione, vel praetextu alicujus statuti editi in praed. anno vicesimo sexto regni nostri; sed quod omnes et singuli praedict, archiepiscopi, episcopi, cancellarii, officiarii, et ministri nostri, haeredum, aut successorum nostrorum, super solam demonstrationem harum literarum nostrarum patentium, permittant et fieri causabunt pradictum decanum et capitulum et successores suos, et quamlibet personam praedictam, de, pro, aut concernen. praemissor. fore quietos et in pace.
ET ulterius de uberiori gratia nostra, damus et concedimus eisdem decano et capitulo et successoribus suis, quod idem decanus et capitulum ac successores sui, habebunt, tenebunt, et gaudebunt, ac habere, tenere, et gaudere valeant, et possint, infra maneria et dominia praedicta, et cetera omnia et singula praemissa, et infra quamlibet parcellam, tot, talia, tanta, hujusmodi et consimilia, curias letas, visum franci plegii, necnon omnia quae ad visum franci plegii pertinent, assaiam et assisam panis, vini, et cervisiae, catalla, waviata, extrahuras, liberas warrenas, ac omnia quae ad liberam warrenam pertinent, wreccum maris, minera carbonum, ferias, nundinas, mercata, libertates, franchesias, privilegia, et jurisdictiones quascunque, quot, qualia, quanta, et quae praedicti nuper prior et conventus dicti nuper monallerii Beatae Mariae Virginis et Sancti Cuthberti Dun. sive eorum aliquis, aut aliquis vel aliqui praedecessorum suorum habuerunt, tenuerunt, vel gavisi fuerunt, habuit, tenuit, vel gavisus fuit, seu habere, tenere, vel gaudere debuerunt aut debuit, in praedictis maneriis, rectoriis, terris, tenementis, et ceteris praemissis, aut in aliqua inde parcella, et adeo plene et integre, ac in tam amphs modo et forma, prout ea omnia et singula ad manus nostras, ratione vel praetextu dissolutionis, sive sursum-redditionis vel concessionis dicti nuper monasterii, seu alio quocunque modo devenerunt, seu devenire debuerunt, ac in manibus nostris jam existunt, seu existere debent, vel deberent.
DAMUS etiam, ac per praesentes concedimus, praesatis decano et capitulo, omnia et singula hujusmodi, talia, tanta, et consimilia jura spiritualia, et privilegia ecclesiastica, ac onmem et consimilem ordinariam authoritatem, potestatem, et jurisdictionem quamcunque, infra precinctum dicti nuper monasterii sive prioratus, ac etiam apud et infra maneria de Heminborough, Howenden, et Alverton infra com. nostrum Eborum. Necnon infra episcopatum Dunelm. quot, quanta, et quae dicti nuper prior et conventus dicti nuper monasterii Beatae Mariae et Sancti Cuthberti Dunelm. aut eorum aliquis, sive aliquis vel aliqui praedecessorum suorum, aut aliquis alius nomine ejusdem prioris sive aliquorum vel alicujus praedecessorum suorum in jure nuper monasterii aut prioratus illius, aliquo tempore ante dissolutionem ejusdem monasterii sive prioratus habuerunt, tenuerunt, vel gavisi suerunt, habuit, tenuit, vel gavitus suit, seu habere, tenere, vel gaudere debuerunt, aut debuit; exceptis, et omnino reservat. nobis, haeredibus, et successoribus nostris omnibus illis libertatibus, jurisdictionibus, franchesiis et privilegiis, quae modo aliquo statuto sive ordinatione sunt adnihilata, revocata, vel evacuata.
ET ulterius de ampliori gratia nostra, volumus, ac per praesentes concedimus pro nobis, haeredibus, et successoribus nostris, quod idem dec. et cap. et eorum successores de cetero imperpetuum habebunt, tenebunt, et gaudebunt, ac in usus suos proprios convertent, et habere, tenere, et gaudere, ac in usus suos proprios convertere possint et valeant, omnes et singulas praedictas rectorias, quae nuper aliquo modo fuerunt appropriatae; ac omnia et omnimoda terras, tenementa, ac decimas, commoditates, prolicua, et emolumenta quaecunque eisdem rectoriis, seu eorum abcui quoquo modo spect
ntia, sive pertinentia praesatis dec. et cap. aut eorum successoribus praeconcess. cum suis pertinentiis universis; ac quod eadem rectoriae cum eisdem pertinentiis de cetero imperpetuum dicto dec. et cap. eorumque successoribus erunt appropriat. in tam amplis modo et forma, prout nuper prior et conventus dicti nuper monasterii Sancti Cuthberti Dunelm. vel eorum aliquis, aut aliquis vel aliqui praedecessorum suorum, in jure nuper monasterii illius praedicti rectorias sive earum aliquas vel aliquam, cum suis pertinentiis habuerunt, tenuerunt, vel gaviti fuerunt, habuit, tenuit, vel gavisus suit, seu habere, tenere, vel gaudere debuerunt aut debent, ratione aut modo quocunque; aliquo actu, statuto, ordinatione, lege, consuetudine, prohibitione, vel restrictione antehac habit, fact. edit. usitat. provisis. vel aliqua alia materia, re vel causa quacunque in contrarium aliquo modo, non obstante, sine impedimento; et hoc absque aliqua praesentatione, admissione, seu inductione alicujus incumbentis, seu aliquorum incumbentium, ad dictas restorias aut ad earum aliquam, ut praefertur, dictis dec. et cap. eorumque successoribus per praesentes concessas.
AC etiam volumus, ac per praesentes pro nobis, haeredibus, et successoribus nostris concedimus dec. et cap. et successor. suis, quod nos, haeredes, et successores nostri imperpetuum, et de tempore in tempus acquietabimus, exonerabimus, et indempnes conservabimus, tam eosdem decanum et capitulum ac eorum successores quam praedicta maneria, terras, tenementa, ac caetera omnia praemissa cum pertinentiis universis, versus quascunque personas, et quamcunque personam, haeredes, assignatos et successores suos, de et pro omnibus et omnimodis pensionibus, portionibus, redditibus, feodis, corrodiis, annuitatibus, oneribus, et denariorum summis quibuscunque, de aut pro praedict. maneriis et ceteris praemissis, seu de aut pro aliqua inde parcella, oneratis, seu onerandis; praeterquam de praedict. reddit. ducentarum octodecim librarum nobis, haeredibus, et successoribus nostris superius reservatum; ac praeterquam de foedo trium librarum, novemdecim solidorum et sex denariorum annuatim solvend. Thomae Tempest militi, et Nicholao et Roberto Tempest conjunctim officiar. parcarii de Beaupere per literas patentes eisdem inde confectas; ac de feodo quadraginta sex solidorum et quatuor denariorum annuatim solvend. Thomae Forster paliciat. dicti parci per literas patentes; ac praeterquam de feodo quatuor librarum, tresdecim solidorum et quatuor denariorum annuatim solvend. Jaspero Horsleye ballivo itinerant sive cursor. scaccarii dicti nuper monasterii per literas patentes eidem inde consectas; ac praeterquam de feodo viginti sex solidorum et quatuor denariorum annuatim solvend. ballivo de Shoreswood cum diversis villat. ibidem, et collectori redd. et decimar. ibidem; ac de feodo viginti sex solidorum et octo denariorum annuatim solvend. ballivo de Est-Merrington pro tempore existente; ac de feodo triginta trium solidorum et quatuor denariorum annuatim solvend. ballivo de Heworth pro tempore existente; ac de feodo quinquaginta trium solidorum et quatuor denariorum annuatim solvend. ballivo de South-Shelies pro tempore existente; ac de feodo viginti solidorum annuatim solvend. ballivo de Framwelgate pro tempore existente; ac de feodo trium librarum et sex solidorum ballivo et collectori redd. de Elvet et Shinkleye pro tempore existente; ac de feodo viginti solidorum annuatim solvend. ballivo villatis de Est-Rainton, West-Rainton, et North-Pittington, pro tempore existente; necnon de feodo viginti septem solidorum et quatuor denariorum annuatim solvend. Nicholao Blaxton ballivo de Billingham per literas patentes eidem inde confectas; ac praeterquam de quinque libris, sex solidis, et octo denariis annuatim solvend. curato capellae Sanctae Margaretae infra praedictam parochiam Sancti Oswaldi Dunelm. pro salario suo; ac de quinque libris annuatim solvend. curato capellae de Cornell infra parochiam de Norham praedict. pro salario suo; ac de quinque libris annuatim solvend. curato parochiae Sanctae Mariae Magdalenae Dunelm. praedict. pro salario suo; ac etiam de tribus libris, sex solidis, et octo denariis annuatim solvend. curato de Mugleswicke praedict. celebrant. in ecclesia de Mugleswicke praed. pro salario suo; ac praeterquam de tresdecim solidis et quatuor denariis annuatim solvend. pro pane et vino tempore Paschali in ministratione corporis Christi parochianis in ecclesia de Notham praedict. ac de triginta quinque solidis et quatuor denariis annuatim solvend. pro consimilibus expensis tempore praedicto in ecclesia Sancti Oswaldi Dunelm. fiend. ac praeterquam de duobis solidis annuatim solvend. magistro collegii de Fryswith in villa nostra Oxon. ac etiam decem solidis solvend. capellano capellae de Ferry super montem pro tempore existente; ac de viginti solidis annuatim solvend. capellano capellae de Hilton pro tempore existente; ac de quinque solidis annuatim solvend. capellano cautariae de Bradburia pro tempore existente; ac de tribus solidis et quatuor denariis annuatim solvend. clerico cantariae Sanctae Trinitatis in ecclesia Sancti Nicholai in burgo Dunolm. ac de octodecim solidis et quinque denariis annuatim solvend. cantaristae Beatae Mariae in ecclesia praedicta; ac de viginti octo solidis et octo denariis annuatim solvend. cantaristae Sanctae Mariae in ecclesia praedicta; ac de quinque solidis annuatim solvend. cantaristae Sancti Nicholai in dicta ecclesia; ac de duodecim denariis annuatim solvend. capellano Beatae Mariae in ecclesia Sanctae Margaretae; ac de quindecim solid
s annuatim solvend. capellano cantariae Sancti Cuthberti in Galilea in ecclesia cathedr. Dunolm. ac de viginti quatuor solid. annuatim solvend. capellano cantariae sive gildae corporis Christi in ecclesia Sancti Nicholai; ac de quadraginta solid. annuatim solvend capellano capellae de Nether-Heworth praedict. pro tempore existente; ac de quadraginta solid. annuatim solvend. cantaristae in ecclesia Sanctae Margaretae in veteri Dunolm. de viginti solid annuatim solvend. rectori ecclesiae parochialis Beatae Mariae in ballivo australi infra dictam civitatem Dunolm. ac de separalibus redd. viginti quatuor solid. ac novemdeeim denariis annuatim solvend. capellano cantariae Beatae Mariae in ecclesia Sancti Oswaldi; ac de novem solidis annuatim solvend. capellano cantariae Beatae Mariae in ecclesia Sancti Nicholai in Dunolm. ac de quatuor solid. annuatim solvend. capellano cantariae Sancti Jacobi juxta Elvet; ac de duobus solid. annuatim solvend. capellano cantariae Beatae Mariae in ecclesia Sancti Nicholai in Dunolm. praedict. ac de quodam annuali redditu, annuitate, sive pensione, viginti librarum exeunt. de ecclesia de Berwick. annuatim solvend. vicario de Berwick praedicta; ac de quodam annuali redditu, sive pensione, sexdeceim librarum exeunt. de ecclesia Sancti Oswaldi praedicti in Dunolm. praedict. ac de quodam annuali redditu sive annuitate viginti librarum exeunt. de ecclesia de Notham praed. annuatim solvend. vicario de Norham praedict.
ET ulterius de uberiori gratia nostra, damus, ac per praesentes concedimus, praefat. decano et capitulo, omnia exitus, redditus, reventiones, et proficua, omnium et singulorum praedictorum maneriorum, terrarum, tenementorum, rectoriarum, pensionum, decimarum, ac ceterorum omnium et singulorum praemissorum, superius expressorum et specificatorum, a festo Sancti Michaelis Archangeli ultimo praeterito huc usque provenientia sive crescentia. Volentes insuper, et per praesentes firmiter injungendo, praecipientes tam cancellario et consilio curiae augmentationum, reventionum, coronae nostrae pro tempore existent. quam omnibus receptoribus, auditoribus, et aliis officiariis et ministris nostris quibuscunque, quod ipsi, et eorum quilibet, super solam demonstrationem harum literarum patentium, absque aliquo alio brevi seu warranto, a nobis, haeredibus, seu successoribus nostris quoquo modo impetrand. obtinend. seu prosequend. plenam, integram, debitamque exonerationem, allocationem, defalcationem, et deductionem manifestam, praed. dec. et capitulo et successoribus suis, de omnibus et omnimodis hujusmodi annuitatibus, redditibus, et denariorum summis quibuscunque de praemissis, ut praefertur, exeuntibus seu solvendis, vel superinde oneratis, seu onerandis; praeterquam de illis redditibus, feod. et denariorum summis, quae superius nominat. et expressat. excipiuntur, facient et fieri causabunt; et hae literae nostrae patentes, erunt tam dict. cancellario et consilio curiae nostrae augmentationum reventionum coronae nostrae pro tempore existen. quam praedict. auditoribus, receptoribus, et aliis officiariis et ministris nostris quibuscunque, sufficiens warrant. et exoneratio in hac parte.
ET praeterea de ampliori gratia nostra volumus, et concedimus pro nobis, haeredibus, et successoribus nostris per praesentes, quod hae literae nostrae paten. et quodlibet verbum, sententia, et clausa in eisdem content. seu specificat. interpretabuntur, exponentur, capientur, intelligentur, adjudicentur, et determinentur, ac interpretabitur, exponetur, capietur, intelligetur, adjudicetur, et determinetur, tam coram nobis, haeredibus, et successoribus nostris, et in quibuscunque curiis nostris, et cur. haeredum et successorum nostrorum tam spiritualibus quam temporalibus, ac in omnibus aliis locis, et coram quibuscunque judicibus, justiciariis, et aliis personis quibuscunque, aut alia persona quacunque, ad maximum commodum et proficuum praedict. decani et capituli et successorum suorum, ac cujuslibet personae, quae nunc est, aut ad aliquod tempus imposterum erit decanus ecclesiae cathedralis praedict. aut praebend. in eadem ecclesia, aut nominat. appunctuat. assignat. seu promot. ad aliquod beneficium, officium, vel dignitatem in eadem ecclesia, et arctissime erga nos, haeredes, et successores nostros, et hoc licet nomina et cognomina, aut nomen et cognomen illorum seu illius, qui imposterum erunt, aut erit decanus ecclesiae praedictae, aut praebendar. vel praebend. in eadem ecclesia, vel nominat. assignat. appunctuat. seu promot. ad aliquod beneficium, officium, seu dignitatem in eadem ecclesia, vel certitudine valorem decan. ecclesiae praedict. et praebendar. in eadem ecclesia, aut ceterar. dignitat. et promotionum in eadem ecclesia, aut eorum alicujus specialiter et certitudinaliter in hiis literis nostris paten. non exprimuntur, declarantur, seu specificantur; aut aliquo omissione, defectu, negligentia, repugnantia, seu contrariositate in praesentibus, aut eorum aliquo, aut eo quod expressa mentio de vero valore annuo, aut de certitude praemissorum, aut de aliis donis, sive concessionibus per nos praefat. decano et capitulo, antehac tempora factis in praesentibus minime fact. existet; aliquo statuto, aut actu parliamenti edit. seu fact. in praedicto anno vicesimo sexto regni nostri, aut aliquo alio statut. actu, ordinatione, seu restrictione in contrarium praemissorum, seu eorum alicujus, antehac tempora edit. fact. seu ordinat. vel aliqua causa, re, seu materia quacunque, in aliquo non obstante.
VOLUMUS etiam, et per praesentes concedimus, praefat. decano et capitulo, quod habeant has literas patentes sub magno sigillo nostro Angliae debito modo fact. et sigillat absque fine, seu feod. magno vel parvo, nobis in hamperio nostro seu alibi, ad usum nostrum proinde quoquo modo reddend. solvend. vel faciend. Eo quod expressa mentio de vero valore annuo, aut de certitudine praemissor. sive eorum alicujus, aut de aliis donis sive concessionibus, per nos praesat. dec. et capit. antehac tempora in praesentibus minime facta existit, aut aliquo statuto, actu, ordinatione, provisione, sive restrictione inde in contrarium fact. edit. ordinat. sive provis. aut alia re, causa, vel materia quacunque, in aliquo non obstante. In cujus rei testimonium has literas nostras fieri fecimus patentes. Teste meipso apud Westmonasterium sexto decimo die Maii anno regni nostri tricesimo tertio.
Per breve de privato sigillo, et de data praedicta, auctoritate parliamenti.
MARTEN.
made by the king bears date the 16th of May 1541: These two instruments, being of much consequence, are inserted at length in the notes.
The establishment, besides the dean and prebendaries, consisted of twelve minor canons, a deacon, sub-deacon, sixteen singing-men, a master of the choristers, ten choristers, a divinity reader, eight almsmen, two masters of the grammar-school, eighteen scholars, two vergers, two porters, two sextons, two barbers. Willis says,
The king converting the priory into a college of seculars, assigned his new dean and prebends their respective apartments out of the old monastery, within the precincts of which the bishop, dean, prebendaries, and other members, have very good houses, the best of any cathedral in England, according to the dignity of the prebends, which are reputed more richly endowed than any other church, owing, as I hear, to the members allotting themselves, at first, their respective dividends or shares out of the chapter lands, and not leasing them in common, by which practice (in this sole church of the new foundation) some prebends are of more value than others, whereas in the rest they are all equal, as they might be here possibly at first, though the improvements of estates have made a disproportion, as it now continues.
The ancient Valor, &c.
 
£.
s.
d.
Deanry
284
4
8
Twelve prebendaries
32
5
10 each
Twelve minor canons
10
0
0 each
Deacon
6
6
8
Sub-deacon
6
6
4
Sixteen lay-singingmen
6
6
8 each
Schoolmaster
11
0
0
Usher
6
6
8
Master of the choristers
9
15
0
Divinity reader
20
0
0
Eight almsmen
6
13
4 each
Eighteen scholars
3
6
8 each
Ten choristers
3
6
8 each
Two vergers
6
0
0 each
Two porters
6
0
0 each
Two cooks
5
0
0 each
Two barbers
5
0
0 each
Two sacristaries
6
0
0 each
.
Dean Whitehead, Chambrè informs us, sell under the displeasure of the court, and, being accused of misdemeanour against the state, together with bishop Tunstal and Hyndmers his chancellor
Burnet's Reformation, vol. iii. p. 205.—Kennet's Hist. vol. ii. p. 323.
Theis be the assignments of lands and possessions for the corps of the deanrye and prebends within the cathedrall churche of Durham, as hereafter followeth.
The Corps of the Deanrye.
Imprimis, ye mannor and demaines of Beauparke
xv
l.
xv
s.
4
d.
Three little clausures lying nyghe ye Stotyate
—
xiij
s.
iiij
d.
The Harber close
—
xx
s.
—
Holm pasture
xij
l.
—
—
North-ravelling Flatt—South-ravelling Flatt—with the Sommer pasture
viij
l.
—
—
One tenement called the Whitehall
—
xxx
s.
—
One tenement called Allansford
—
xij
s.
—
One tenement called Shipleigh
—
xiij
s.
iiij
d.
With claus. commons and pastures belonging to the premisses paying furthe yearlie of the said corps unto the said cathed. church of D. the some of x
l.
xiij
s.
And the woods and mines within the possessions of the said corps to be reserved and excepted for the common use and necessaries of the said cathed. churche and other the mannors, milnes, buildings and tenements appertayning and belonging to the same.
Randal's MSS.
N. B. The residue of this assignment is carried forward to each respective prebend.
The tithes of Merrington and Billingham were also then assigned to the deanry.
 
£.
s.
d.
Decimae rectoriae de Billingham
13
13
4
de Newton Bewley
7
0
0
de Cowpen
6
0
0
de Wolvestan
13
6
8
de Merrington
8
0
0
Decimae rectoriae de Chilton Magna
6
13
4
de Chilton Parva
2
8
0
de Fery-Hill
6
13
4
de Hett
2
6
8
 
£ 105
13
4
Solvit etiam capitulo pro bladijs Aegidij 4
s.
Et pro 48 le rent henns, &c. 4
s.
Decanus nunc solvit capitulo quotannis 106
l.
1
s.
4
d.
, was summoned to appear before the council; being much agitated under such circumstances, and distressed by unusual fatigue and travelling, he fell sick soon after his arrival in London, and dying, was interred in Trinity Church in the Minories, in the year 1548, having enjoyed the office of dean only six years. Willis says
Vol. i. p. 252.
,
The History of Durham says he died at London in 1548, and was buried in the Minories there; which A. Wood in his Athenae also mentions, and tells us this epitaph was placed over his gravestone, though it is now perished, as I found when I searched that church:
Here lyeth the Body of Hugh Whitehead, the last Prior of Durham, and first Dean thereof, who died at London — and was buried in the Church of the Minories, Anno
—
The office of dean appears to have remained vacant three years from the death of Hugh Whitehead, or that he did not die in the year 1548; for it was not till the 18th of November, 1551, that
ROBERT HORN, D. D.
succeeded, it being expresly said in the patent (5 Edw. VI. part 3) that the king presented him on the vacancy occasioned by the death of Whitehead. Some authors have asserted he was born in the bishopric of Durham
Collyer's Eccl. Hist. vol. ii. p. 569.—Fuller's Eng. Worthies.
, but the more probable account is
Fasti Oxon. Wood, vol. i. p. 101.
, that he was the son of John Horn, son of William Horn, of Cletor in Copeland, in the county of Cumberland, was educated in St John's college, Cambridge, where he commenced doctor in divinity, and went out
ad eundem
9th July 1567. It is said he was nominated to the bishopric of Durham in 1552, bishop Tunstall being then living, who declined accepting it, as the conditions were such he could not approve:
Grey's Notes.—Kennet's Hist. vol. ii. p. 323.—Burnet's Res. vol. ii. p. 64.—Strype's Ann. vol. ii. p. 656.
It is certain there was much disagreement between him and that prelate. Soon after the accession of queen Mary, Horn was ejected, and became a voluntary exile for the cause of faith, living abroad the whole of her reign. At the head of the episcopal party at Frankfort he greatly distinguished himself, being chosen Hebrew-reader to the English society there
Fuller's Ch. Hist. lib. 8, p. 31.
. In a bitter contest with one Ashley, his bigotry rather than his tolerant spirit was displayed
Ibid. lib 8, p. 32.
. On the accession of Elizabeth, being restored to his deanry, he continued but a short time before his appointment to the bishopric of Winchester, which happened in the year 1560. At the conference at Westminster, he was chosen one of the disputants concerning the services of the church
Ibid. lib. 9, p. 56.
. A suit was prosecuted against him by bishop Bonner, touching the supremacy oath
Ibid. p. 79.—Collyer's Eccl. Hist. vol. ii. p. 493.
, which was superseded by the fortunate interposition of the statute on consecrations. He departed this life on the 1st day of June 1579. The place of his interment is variously spoken of; most probably it was in the church at Winchester, near the pulpit; but Willis and Stevens say in the Minories church, London. The inscription on his tomb has been given us in the History of Winchester, published in 1773
Robertus Horne, theologiae doctor eximius, quondam Christi causae exul, deinde episcopus Winton, pie obiit in Domino June 1, 1580, episcopatus sui anno 19.
. Under the Life of John Whyte
Ath. Oxon. vol. i. p. 110. (last edit.)
he is thus mentioned:
He was reported by a certain author
Parker's Antiq. Eccl. Brit.
to be a man of great mind and profound ingenie, and no less sagacious in detecting the crafts of his adversaries, than prudent in preventing and avoiding them. He was also a frequent preacher, and an excellent disputant, and wrote in the mother-tongue an Answer to John Fackenham's Scruples
Ath. Ox. vol. i. p. 222. That he dealt falsely and uncivilly with abbot Feckenham when committed to his custody.—See also p. 196.
concerning the oath of supremacy. He gave way to fate in 1579, leaving this character behind him, given by one belonging to the church at Durham, who, speaking of his demolishing several ancient monuments of that church while dean thereof, tells us,
that he could never abide any ancient monuments, acts or deeds, that gave any light of or to godly religion.
" His character, as given by Fuller
Eng. Worthie
.
, is to this effect: "A worthy man ground betwixt papists and sectaries, who sported with his name, and twitted his person as dwarfish, carping at the case, when they were not able to find fault with the jewel. Whatever his mould might be, he was made of good metal, as being of a sprightful and fruitful wit.
He published two of John Calvin's sermons in English, to which he prefixed his Apology, wherein he gives an account of himself, and the reasons for his flight. There are many things in this Apology worthy remarking
Strype's Ann. vol. ii. p. 659. The apology in the appendix, No 30.
, especially the complaints of hard and unjust dealing towards him, by bishop Tunstall, and by Gardiner bishop of Winchester, and of the sad change there was on the accession of queen Mary. Strype says,
This Apology is well worthy the preserving; therein he relates at large how he was summoned up from Durham to the privy-council: And thereby the bishop of Durham and the bishop of Winchester accused him of divers things that were merely false, on purpose to bring him into trouble; as that he, being dean of the church, took upon him to meddle in the bishop's office; that in his new learning he preached heresy; that he was a Scot; that he brought a wife into that church, where never woman came before: Of all which, with sundry other charges, he acquits himself in this Apology
Grey's Notes.—Mon. p. 118, 122.—Strype, Eliz. c. 3 and 45, &c. &c.—By his will he left 40
l.
to the poor of Durham.—Strype's Ann. p. 656.
.
On dean Horn's cession,
THOMAS WATSON, D. D.
was appointed by queen Mary, the 18th of November 1553. He was rector of North-Crawley in the county of Bucks, and master of St John's college, Cambridge. Soon after his advancement to this deanry, an act
An Act of Parliament empowering Q. Mary to make Statutes for Cathedral and Collegiate Churches,
2d April,
1554.
[From Randal's MSS. No 1 p. 91.]
In parliamento inchoato et lento apud Westmonasterium secundo die Aprilis, anno regni serenissimae et excellentissimae dominae nostrae Mariae Dei gratia Angliae Franciae et Hiberniae reginae fidei desensoris primo, et ibidem continuato usque in quintum diem Maii dicto anno, quo die dissolut. erat, communi omnium procerum et populi consensu, ac regiae majestatis tunc praesent. assensu, sancit. edit et ordinat. fuerunt haec subsequent. statuta.
Exhibita est regiae majestati in parliamento praedicto, billa quaedam formam actus in se continens:
WHEREAS the late noble prince of famous memory, king Henry the Eighth, father to our most gratious soveraigne lady the queene, amongst other his godly acts and doings, did erect, make and establish divers and sundry churches, as well cathedral as collegiate, and endowed every of the same with divers manors, lands, tenements and possessions, for the maintenance of the deanes, prebendaries and ministers within the same, and for other charitable acts to be done and executed by the same deanes, prebendaries and ministers: And also did incorporate the same deanes, prebendaries and ministers, and made them
bodyes politique in perpetual succession,
according to the lawes of the realme of England.
And where also, as the late kinge, for the better maintenance and preservation of the said churches, in a godly unity and good order and governance, graunted unto the several corporations and bodyes corporate of every of the said churches that they should be ruled and governed for ever, according unto certaine ordinances, rules and statutes, to be specifyed in certaine indentures then after to be made by his highnes, and to be delivered and declared to every of the bodyes corporate of the said several churches, as by the several erections and foundations of the said churches more plainly it doth and may appear: Since which said erections and foundations, the said late kinge did cause to be delivered to every of the said churches, so as is
esaid erected and incorporated, by certaine commissioners by his highnes appointed, diverse and sundrye statutes and ordinances, made and declared by the same commissioners, for the order, rule and governance of the said several churches, and of the deanes, prebendaries and ministers of the same; which said statutes and ordinances were made by the said commissioners, and delivered unto every of the corporations of the said several churches in writinge, but not indented, according to the forme of the said foundations and erections, by reason whereof, the said churches, and the several deanes, prebendaries and ministers of the same, have no statutes or ordinances of any force or authority, whereby they should be ruled and governed, and therefore
as yet not fully established, in such sort as the godly intent of the said late
ing Henry the Eighth was, to the greate imperfection of the same churches, and the hinderance of God's service, and good order and regiment to be had and continued amongst the ministers of the same.
And for as much as the authority of the makinge of the said statutes, ordinances and orders was reserved only unto the said late kinge, and no mention made of any like authority to be reserved unto his heyres and successors, the same orders and statutes cannot now be provided, without authority of parliament.
May it therefore please the queenes highnes, that it may be established and enacted by her highnes, by the assent of the lords spiritual and temporal, and the commons of this present parliament assembled, and by the authority of the same, that our said soveraigne lady the queene from thenceforthe duringe her natural life (which our Lord longe preserve) shall have by vertue of this act, full power and authority to make and prescribe unto every of the said churches, and the deanes, and prebendaries, and ministers of the same, and to their successores, such statutes, ordinances and orders, for the good governance, rule and order of every of the same churches, deans and prebendaries, and ministers of the same, and of the lands, manors, tenements and possessions of every of the same churches, as shall seeme good to her highnes; the same statutes and ordinances to be made by her highnes by writinge sealed with the great seale of England, and to be delivered to the deanes, prebendaries and ministers of every of the said churches for the tyme beinge.
And that it may be further enacted by the authoritye aforesaide, that our said soveraigne lady the queene, duringe the tyme aforesaide, by writinge sealed with the greate seale of Englande, shall and may alter, transpose, and change, augment, or diminish the said orders, statutes and ordinances of every of the said churches, from tyme to tyme, as occasion shall serve, and as it shall seeme good to her highnes; and that all and every of the said statutes and ordinances and orders to be made, altered, transposed, changed, augmented, or diminished, as is aforesaid, shall be and remaine good and effectual, according to the makinge, alteration, transposinge, chaunginge, augmentinge, or diminishinge of the same.
Be it also further enacted by the authoritye aforesaide, that the queenes highnes may have like power and authoritye to make, ordeine and establish statutes, ordinances and foundations, for the good order and government of such grammar schooles as have been erected, founded, or established in any part of this realme, by the most noble princes king Henry the Eighth or king Edward the Sixth, and of the ministers and scholars of the same schooles, and to alter and transpose such other statutes and ordinances there made heretofore, from tyme to tyme, as to her highnes shall seeme most convenient.
Cui quidem billae prelecte, et ad plenum intellecte per dictam dominam reginam ex authoritate parliamenti praedicti, sic responsum est.
La Reigne le veult.
was passed to enable the queen to make statutes and ordinances for the government of collegiate churches and their possessions, the former law of Henry VIII. having become obsolete for want of being duly carried into execution, as appears by the preamble. This power, as we observed before
The first head or chapter sets forth this commission, &c. Vid. Annals of the Bishops, vol. i. p. 437.
, was as much confined to the queen as the other was to Hen. VIII. so that statutes constructed, or reformations of such statutes, not done by queen Mary, and without authority of parliament, are void and of no validity.
The present statutes of this church were drawn up by Nicholas Heath archbishop-elect of York, Edmund Bonner bishop of London, Cuthbert Tunstall bishop of Durham, Thomas Thirlby bishop of Ely, and William Armistead chaplain to their majesties, who were commissioned for that purpose; and they received confirmation
Et magni sigilli nostri Angliae appensione confirmamus, ac pro veris et indubitatis ecclesiae chathed. Xti et beatae Mariae Virginis Dunelm statutis haberi volumus, ac denique tam vobis decano et capitulo ceterisque ministris ecclesiae praedictae quam successoribus vestris, quatenus eisdem omnino vos conformetis, prescribimus, ac perpetuo observanda tradimus, &c.
under the great-seal the 20th day of March, in the first and second years of the reign of Philip and Mary
The corrections or additions noted under each statute were made 30th Dec. 1556, but by what authority is not known.
.
STATUTES.
CHAP. I.
—The Bishop's Pre-eminence.
The prelate takes place of the dean, canons, and ministers of the church; and is to be received, upon his first coming, with the following ceremonies: The dean, with the whole choir in their proper habits, shall meet him in procession at the north door, the bells ringing, the dean on his right-hand, the next in dignity on his left, conducting him to the high altar, where, kneeling, the prayers prescribed shall be used. He is to be received in the same manner when he comes to visit; but on other occasions by the ringing of bells, and without procession. When the bishop preaches, or performs divine service, the person whose turn it should be, is excused. On his reading any of the offices on great festivals, the dean on his right-hand, and the person next in dignity on his left; or, in their absence, the two next superiors shall assist, and attend him from the vestry to the altar or the throne; and on other occasions the sub-dean, or the person next in dignity, shall minister to him and support his book. The dean and the whole choir, coming in or going out, shall bow to him, whether he is seated in his stall or throne. When the bishop institutes the dean or prebendaries, he is to send his letters to the dean and chapter, for induction and possession.
CHAP. II.
—Induction and Installation of the Dean.
The dean is to be installed and placed in his seat in the chapter-house by the subdean or senior residentiary, where, having taken the prescribed oath, both major and minor canons shall promise canonical obedience to him in these words:
Domine decane, promitto tibi canonicam obedientiam tanquam decano.
The dean's power and jurisdiction is supreme, touching the government of the church. He shall hear all causes relative to the chapter, and, assisted with their opinions, determine therein; correct excesses, and reprehend all obstinate offenders. He shall invest the prebendaries in the presence of their brethren, and in his and the chapter's name receive the oath prescribed. Being superior in authority, all shall stand when he enters or departs the choir or chapter-house. He is first in place and voice. The ringing of the bells must wait for him morning and evening on festivals, when he is to perform the offices; but not at other times, unless he officiates
Nisi cum executor officii suerit.
. On the like days he is to chant the anthems, or such of the canons as he shall appoint for that purpose. On reading the service he is not to quit his seat. If the bishop is not present, it is the dean's office, or, in his absence, the next in dignity, to pronounce the confession. All the ministers of the church shall bow to him in his stall as they enter or depart the choir. In correcting excesses, such is the prerogative of the dean and prebendaries, on account of their prebends, that they shall not be convened out of chapter, because such causes as relate to the prebends shall be determined in chapter, by the judgment of the dean and chapter. Prebendaries' servants ought to be corrected by their proper masters, unless their offences are heinous, and their masters neglect that duty. Leave of absence shall be given by the dean to the minor canons and other officers of the church for one day, or at most not exceeding eight days; and in his absence, by the sub-dean or senior resident: Absence for any greater time shall not be given without consent of the chapter.
CHAP. III.
Induction and Installation of a Prebendary.
The new prebendary is to produce, and cause to be read in chapter, his presentation from the bishop; and if nothing be objected to him, he is to be habited and presented to the dean and chapter; and the dean, or senior in his absence, admits him, by the ceremony of delivering a loaf of white bread placed on the book of statutes, saying,
Nos recipimus te in canonicum et investimus, et tradimus tibi regularis observantioe formam in volumine isto contentam pro cibo spirituali, et in remedium laboris refectionem in pane et vino corporalem.
The bread is to be given to the poor
Decanum sordidè parcum castigabit episcopus Dunelm.
. Then the dean or precentor proceeds to install him, by placing him in his seat in the church; after prayers, he returns to the chapter-house, and takes the oath prescribed; and then is saluted by the dean and canons, before which ceremony he is not permitted to act in chapter. There are many secrets of the chapter, which are not to be divulged, not even to an absentee when he returns; particularly those which in discovery might prejudice the rights of the church, the chapter, or any member thereof. Disputes among the prebendaries, on any chapter matters, are to be determined by the chapter; and they are to submit to such determination, without going to law.
CHAP. IV.
—Persons to be supported by the Church.
One dean, twelve prebendaries, twelve minor canons, one deacon, one subdeacon, ten clerks (who may be either priests or laymen), one master of the choristers, ten choristers, one master and one under-master of the grammar school, eighteen grammar scholars, eight poor men, two sub-sacrists or vergers, two to ring the bells and look after the clock, two porters (one of whom shall be a barber), one baker, one under-baker, one cook, and one under-cook;—the whole number eighty-six.
CHAP. V.
—The Dean's Qualifications.
The dean shall be a priest, doctor in divinity, bachelor in divinity or doctor of laws, of sound faith, good life, and under no imputation of heresy; to be nominated by the crown by letters patent under the great seal, and presented to the bishop, on whose mandate he is to be received and installed, and put in possession of his deanry by the prebendaries present, the sub-dean or senior residentiary giving him the following oath.
CHAP. VI.
—The Dean's Oath.
Ego (A) qui in decanum hujus ecclesioe cathedralis Dunelm. electus et institutus sum, Deum testor, et per hoec sancta Dei evangelia juro, quod pro virili meà in hac ecclesia bene et fideliter regam et gubernabo, juxta ordinationes et statuta ejusd. et quod omnia illius bona, terras, et tenementa, redditus, possessiones, jura, libertates et privilegia coeterasque res universas, tam mobiles quam immobiles, et alias omnes commoditates ejusdem ecclesioe bene et fideliter custodiam, defendam, et servabo, atque ab aliis similiter fieri curabo, ad hoec omnia et singula statuta et ordinationes hujus ecclesioe quatenus me concernunt bene et fideliter observabo, et ab aliis quatenus eos concernunt, studiose observari procurabo; sicut me Deus adjuvet, et hoec sancta Dei evangelia.
CHAP. VII.
—The Dean's Duty.
As the eye of the body, he is to look after all the members of it, that they do their respective duties; he is to keep a regular family, and live according to his dignity, or be reproved by the bishop
Biscuits are distributed to the populace, the remains of the ancient custom of sweet bread on high festivals, perhaps originally derived from heathenish rites.
, if he lives sordidly; of which fault if any of the prebendaries are guilty, he is to reprove them, and also touching other duties required by the statutes. He is to take care of the treasure
Jocalia ornamenta ecclesiae vasa aurea et argentea supellectilem omnem, &c.
, ornaments, utensils, writings and records of the church (
FIRST CORRECTION,
—"In a place which, in his and the chapter's judgment, shall be thought most secure."
ac in oerario locisque aliis ad ea specialiter deputatis, prout illius judicio pro tempore tutissimum videbitur
) that they may be all preserved for his successor. His consent is to be had, in all elections to offices and places, in setting fines and letting lands, in bestowing benefices, in the confirmation of any deeds of indenture and other writings, if he is within the realm; if not, then by his deputy lawfully constituted, who must be a member of the chapter
CORRECTION,
—"That none of the writings may be lost, if the dean or any of the prebendaries take any charters. &c. out of the treasury (which is not to be allowed but upon urgent necessity for the use of the church) they ane to leave a note under their hand for what they take out, and restore it at the time appointed, otherwise they are punishable by the loss of their quotidians, or in a greater degree if obstinately refusing.
.
CHAP. VIII.
—Survey of the Lands, and holding Courts.
The dean, or, being prevented, one deputed by him and the chapter, shall once a year, or if need require, more frequently, survey all the manors, lands, tenements, houses, buildings, appropriated churches, woods, underwoods, and trees, belonging to this church, and order necessary repairs or new houses to be built; and the condition of such estates and houses is to be reported in writing within eight days after such survey, wherein the receiver (if convenient) shall be one, or, in his absence, one of the prebendaries to be deputed; also the senescal or clerk of the courts shall attend and hold the courts, and assist with their counsel. The courts are to be kept once a year, beginning after Easter, and again (if occasion) after Michaelmas. The dean upon such survey to be allowed six shillings and eight-pence a day for his expences, and the receiver four shillings. As in these statutes mention is often made of the Chapter, we declare, that under that title shall be understood one half of the prebendaries at least; and those only shall be deemed acts of the Chapter where at least that number, who are
intra septum ecclesioe,
are present at the making thereof. The votes of absentees shall not be admitted; but if any one is sick within the college, he shall not be deemed absent, but under his hand may give his suffrage on being consulted by the dean or one of the prebendaries.
CHAP. IX.
—Concerning the Woods, and letting the Lands, &c. to farm.
The dean shall not sell or give away any wood fit for timber
CORRECTION,—"The dean, on his visitation, with the consent of the receiver and treasurer, or one of them, shall assign wood to the tenants for the necessary repairs of their tenements."
, or let or lease out for term of years any of the lands, tenements, tithes, &c. without the advice and consent of the Chapter
CORRECTION,—"The dean may let out those lands and tenements
(sive bondagia sive cottagia
disi
a in urbibus)
which anciently were not demised by indenture, but at will only, after the old made, for which such advice and consent is not requisite; so as the ancient tenure and custom of the premisses be not altered, or their annual rents diminished.
; but he may, on his visitation, assign to the tenants, wood for necessary repairs of their tenements; and also let or lease out the lands, tenements, tithes, &c. from year to year, and at will, according to the custom of the manors; for doing which, such advice and consent are not requisite. Care is to be taken that the several woods be sufficiently fenced, that they may not be cropt by cattle: And as (this article declares)
great part of the riches of the church consists in woods,
when there is a fall of wood for the repair of the church or any other bu
dings, it must be conducted under the inspection of the supervisor
(the dean or receiver)
or one of the prebendaries, or some person specially deputed and sworn to that duty, and no part thereof shall be sold, except the bark and tops not fit for timber; and the felling of such wood shall be at a proper season, to cause a new spring, unless occasion requires it to be cut at another time. Tallies or a written account shall be kept by the wood bailiff of the number of trees felled, and for what use, so that, at the annual audit, the Chapter may see the state of their woods. If by agreement any wood is given to the tenants for firing, it shall be that which is decayed, dried, and unfit for timber. No lands or tenements shall be leased for a longer term than twenty-one years, and no reversion granted, till within seven or eight years at the furthest of the expiration of the existing lease, and then the demise is not to exceed twenty-one years at most. There shall be no leasing from three years to three years, or from term to term, beyond twenty-one years; neither shall there be any covenant or agreement for renewing such lease when it expires. And all collusion and fraud in demising the church lands is prohibited
CORRECTION.—It is ordained, that no manors, lands, &c.
(salinoe, molendina, mineroe carbonum vel metallorum rectorioe ecclesiarum appropriatarum decimoe, &c.)
shall be demised to any person beyond the term of 21 years, nor any reversion granted until within two or three years at the utmost of the expiration of the former lease, and if the existing lease is not delivered up to be cancelled, the remaining years therein shall be deducted from the new term. If any money is received from the tenant on such demise, besides seal sees, all such mon
y, and other casual profits arising from the premisses, which are not specially ordered by these statutes to be otherwise applied, shall go
to the common use of the church,
in support of the ordinary expences,
and shall not b
o
ted to the private benefit of the dean and chapter or any of them.
. But it is allowed, that all houses in towns and villages may be leased for fifty or sixty years at most. The tenants shall pay their rents to the receiver or his deputy within the precincts of the church, find one or more sureties for performance of the covenants and agreements in their leases, and on the death of any such surety to provide a new one, within one month, upon pain of forfeiting the lease. The body are totally prohibited alienating, mortgaging, selling, changing or pledging any of the manors, lands, rents, tenements, or other immoveable possessions of the church,
pinguescere enim hanc optamus ecclesiam, non macrescere,
is the expression of the commissioners. No suit shall be commenced or prosecuted touching the possessions of the church, without consent of the chapter. The dean, or his procurator if absent, with the chapter
Sine,
&c. What is the intention of this
Sine,
&c. is not in our power to construe
; or whether it should be
Sive,
&c. In several of the English entries it stands thus, but in the Latin copies of the statutes it stands,
et
p
po.
, shall present to their livings and ecclesiastical preferments. The granting of the next turn to any living before the same is become vacant, is prohibited, unless on some very urgent occasion, or in favour of some person of distinguished worth, to whom the grant shall be personal and not general, so that if he dies before a vacancy, the right of presentation shall revert to the chapter.
CHAP. X.
—Delivery of the Goods, &c. to the Dean.
This chapter prescribes the manner of delivering over to the dean all the jewels, plate, treasures, ornaments, and other valuable effects belonging to the church, the care whereof are committed to him, and which are to be specified by inventory and indenture.
CHAP XI.
—The Dean's Attendance.
It is ordained, that the dean shall constantly reside at the deanry, without some lawful excuse; such as attendance on the king or queen as chaplain, and that so long only as the duty requires; on any negotiation of the crown, business of the church, attendance on parliament or the convocation, involuntary imprisonment, and great sickness, whereby he is prevented returning to the church
The like indulgencies are extended to the prebendaries, by chap. xiv. But the modern custom of spending half their days in London, &c. and squandering their revenues at a distance from their estates, was not in fashion in those days —
Pan curat oves —otium cum dignitate!
—
See Angl. Sacra, vol i. p. 7
9.
: During such his absence, he is to be deemed present with regard to profits and emoluments
"In omnibus tamen commodis et emolumentis ratione corporis decanatus sui et quotidianarum distributionum, &c."
, on informing the chapter of the cause; but shall not be entitled thereto, if absent on any causes than those assigned, and for longer time than prescribed by this statute. The dean may be absent one hundred days in the year, in the whole, together or at separate times, on his private affairs.
CHAP. XII.
—The Prebendaries' Qualifications, &c.
In this statute the right of nominating prebendaries is reserved to the crown
See vol. i. p. 436, where this patronage is granted to the bishop.
.
Each shall be a priest, of sound faith, without any imputation of heresy, of fair character and good life; either doctor or bachelor in divinity, doctor of laws, or master of arts, or at least bachelor of laws. To take the following oath before the dean or sub-dean and chapter:
Ego (B) qui in canonicum hujus ecclesia cathedralis Christi et Beatae Mariae Virginis Dunelm. nominatus, electus et institutus sum, (tactis sacrosanctis Dei evangeliis) Juno, quod pro virili mea, terras, tenementa, redditus, possessiones, jura, libertates et privilegia, caeterasque res universas hujus ecclesiae tucbor, servabo et servari procurabo; et omnia singula statuta ac ordinationes hujus ecclesiae (quatenus me concernunt) fideliter observabo; et ab aliis, quantum in me fuerit, observari curabo: Nec quod ad utilitatem et honorem hujus ecclesiae legitimè fieri potest, sciens impediam, sed illius commodo et honori semper studebo. Approbatas et approbandas hujus ecclesiae consuetudines (prout eas didicero) observabo. Praeterea, obediens ero decano et capitulo in mandatis licitis et canonicis, et quod secreta capituli illicitè non revelabo. Et si me posthac officium aliquod in ecclesia hac gerere contigerit, illud bene et fideliter pro viribus exequar. Haec omnia et singula praestabo, sicut me Deus adjuvet, et haec sancta ejus evangelia.
The dean shall take his oath before the chapter, the major and minor canons before the dean and chapter, and all the inferiors before the dean and treasurer.
CHAP. XIII.
—Obedience to the Dean.
All ministers, &c. of the church shall be obedient to the dean as their head and leader, in his absence to the sub-dean, and in both their absence to the senior residentiary.
CHAP. XIV.
—The Prebendaries' Attendance.
They are allowed eighty days absence to look after their livings and other business, and the same indulgencies as before granted to the dean.
See chap. xi.
If any of them shall preach within twelve miles of the cathedral, he is to be allowed the emoluments of one day, as if present; and if above twelve miles, two days, or at the most three. If he is longer absent, without the excuse of preaching or the causes before stipulated, he shall forfeit his profits
CORRECTION.—These one, two, or three days, are by this correction extended without limitation, if the preacher satisfy the dean and chapter every quarter how often and where he preached, so that at the end of the year it may appear whether each has performed his statutable duty.—The dean may preach his sermons, either on the statutable days, viz. Easter-day, Corpus Christi, and Christmas-day, or on their octaves, if there happens a greater concourse of people.
. A third part of the prebendaries at least shall be constantly resident; or those who are absent, without the causes allowed, shall not have their share of quotidians and dividends for the time of such absence
By a note to the MS. copy before us, it is observed, "By this it seems to be implied, that those present should have all forfeitures of quotidians divided among them: And this appears to be the foundation of the custom of those who are present the whole year (saving statutable days of absence) having the forfeitures divided amongst them. If there are four prebendaries constantly here, and whilst there are so many, the forfeiture
to be divided amongst all, in proportion to their days of being resident.
.
CHAP. XV.
—The Dean and Prebendaries' Preaching.
The dean and prebendaries shall be diligent in preaching, as well in the country as in the cathedral church. The dean shall
(per se aut per alium)
preach in English in the cathedral on Easter-day, Corpus Christi and Christmas-days
The observation of Corpus Christi-day being laid aside, the other two are only days of duty.
; and likewise twice in the year within the diocese, at different places. The prebendaries shall each preach four times at least in the year, in the cathedral, on Sundays or other festivals, if agreeable to the dean; that is to say, once a quarter, between the respective quarter-days of Christmas, the Annunciation, John Baptist, and Michaelmas-day, according to the priority of their stalls; under a mulct of 20s. to be paid towards the common stock. When the bishop chuses to preach, the dean or canon whose turn it was shall be excused.
CHAP. XVI.
—Residence of the Prebendaries.
All the prebendaries shall live in the college distinct, and lodge there. If any of them has not 40l. a year clear income, besides the stipends of this church, he shall not be obliged to keep house or observe hospitality; but may live privately at his own house, or eat at the table of the dean or some of the prebendaries, whether in or out of residence, or at the table of the minor canons within the precincts of the church: If there should happen to be three of this condition, they may keep one table amongst them, and using hospitality, shall be reckoned only as one holding residence, and out of the common stock are to receive the share but of one.
CORRECTION.—Two prebendaries having between them 60l. a-year clear income, besides the stipends of this church, may hold residence, be deemed one residentiary, and as such have the portion of one out of
e co
stock.
Those who have not a common table, but live either privately or at the tables of others, are prohibited having any share of the common stock, which accrues from the absence of the dean and others, and the seal-fees. The deans and canons, who, exclusive of the stipends of this church, have 40l. a year clear yearly value, for the time they stay are obliged to maintain a family and keep residence and hospitality; otherwise they shall be deemed absent, and bear the mulct of an absentee, in forfeiting the quotidians. Those who do not live within the precincts, or when they come do not continue twenty days together, are excused keeping house for so short a time. In division of the common stock, the dean shall receive double the portion of a prebendary. At the end of each year, about Michaelmas, a dividend is to be made to the resident dean and prebendaries, according to the number of days they were resident, and not otherwise, as before prescribed. Whoever designs to keep residence, shall come to the chapter and declare the day he begins such residence, which is to be entered in the registry, that there may be no dispute among the brethren about time. Those who keep residence, are such as for twenty-one days together in every year are present at divine service, as the statutes direct, and keep house. They shall give notice to the chapter when they begin their twenty-one days, during which time they shall entertain in a more liberal manner than the rest of the year, receiving the choir, and inviting the citizens and strangers to their table, as becomes those that keep hospitality. Two or more must not hold residence together, but one after another, and when it is most convenient to each, unless some urgent cause (approved by the dean or sub-dean and chapter) prevents. Every residentiary who holds residence for the whole year, shall twice a year entertain the whole choir, and the eight poor men belonging to the church at different times, not more than six together
et semel tantum in die.
But if he is not resident the whole year, then it shall suffice that he entertains the choir only once a year, in manner before mentioned. If any one is invited and doth not come, the residentiary is excused asking him again; for whoever is invited is presumed to be at the table. Those that neglect the performance of any of these ordinances may be punished by the dean, or in his absence by the sub-dean, by withholding the monthly allowance, or by an arbitrary mulct. As to the three allowed to hold residence together, they shall all be present; unless on some urgent occasion one is obliged to be absent, and that not above ten days: And they shall keep their table at a joint expence, otherwise they shall not be deemed as one residentiary, except only where any of them is so ill he cannot possibly attend
Morbo laboret soatico,
morbus sonticus, verbum Plinii.—A grievous, dangerous disease, such as in the Roman laws was sufficient excuse for non-appearance.
. The dean, for the benefit of the country air or refreshment, or other cause to be approved by the chapter, shall have liberty to retire to his manor of Beaurepaire for forty days in the year, over and above the days of absence before allowed by these statutes
See chap. xi p. 123.
, without losing his usual perquisites, in case he attends the business of the chapter, and holds his residence within the precincts of the church for twenty-one days, as before stipulated.
CHAP. XVII.
—The Dean and Prebendaries' Stipends.
That the dean and prebendaries may be better enabled to keep hospitality, the dean shall annually receive from the treasurer
pro corpore decanatus,
40l. 1s. 3d. and each prebendary 8l. 4s. 9¼d. The dean shall further receive from the treasurer for every day he attends prayers morning and evening, and the statutable days of absence 12s. 5d. and each prebendary 16¼ d. Those are deemed to be present at prayers who come into church before the end of the first psalm, and do not depart (but on urgent necessity) before the service is concluded. All stipends are to be paid quarterly, at the four great quarter days, except the money which accumulates in each year, from forfeitures by absentees, mulcts, and seal fees, which shall be collected in the following manner: The precentor is to mark the days of the dean's and each prebendary's absence above the statutable allowance; for each day the dean shall forfeit 12 s. 5d. and each prebendary 16¼ d. to be retained by the treasurer; which accumulation
appellavimus communam dividendam.
Further to enable them to keep hospitality,
(rem Deo et hominibus longe gratissimam)
particular lands, &c. are assigned, as set forth in the next chapter, which they may occupy or let as they think expedient, so as they pay the reserved rent at the usual times, and keep the houses in repair at their expence, except main-timber: The dean and chapter shall be judges of the repairs wanted, and on neglect cause them to be repaired at the parties expence. None of the canons shall
CORRECTION,—Neither the dean, nor the dean and chapter, shall let to farm, either from year to year, or for a term, the lands, &c. assigned to the dean and prebendaries in augmentation for their residence; but they shall remain in his occupation to whom they were assigned, or his assignees to his use, whether he is resident in the college or not, so that he pay the out-rent as before mentioned, and keep the tenements in repair; so that the same prebendary or his successor, when ever afterwards he thinks proper to reside, may not lose the profits of the lands, &c.
sell or let to farm any of the possessions belonging to the church to any one, even a brother canon, without consent of the dean and chapter, under the penalty of forfeiting the whole value of the thing sold, or the profits of the land when lawfully convicted. On the death or removal of the dean or prebendaries, from the day of that event to Michaelmas next following, the profits of the corps lands, &c. and all moveables, shall be at his, or his executors disposal. If any such prebendary doth not reside, and keep hospitality, the dean, with the consent of the chapter, may let the lands, &c. so assigned from year to year and at will; so that the said prebendary or his successor afterwards keeping residence, may not be deprived of the profits of those lands, &c. longer than a year
Here is no mention made of the stipends or dividends belonging to the executor of the deceased till Michaelmas; and therefore according to the 16 Cha. they are to be divided
a vacatione
from the time of his death,
inter residentes,
though before he died he kept the twenty-one days residence: But if he did not keep residence, his stipends and share of the dividends belong to the rest. It was moved in full chapter, 1725, whether the successor keeping residence, the predecessor had omitted, had not a right to the stipends and dividend for the whole year till Michaelmas; upon which they came to no resolution, being equally divided,—four that he had a right, and four è contra.
.
CHAP. XVIII.
—Lands, &c. assigned to the Dean and Prebendaries.
Lands assigned to the deanry are, the manor and park of Bear-park (Beaurepaire), with Herber-close, and three arable closes near Stotgate, Alansford, with Shipley and Whitwell, North and South Revensflat, with Summer Pasture and Holme; the tithes of the rectories of Billingham and Merrington, and of the villages belonging to them
CORRECTION,—Since the tithes of two churches are assigned to the dean, by way of augmentation for hospitality, and none are given to the prebendaries, therefore we consent, that the dean and chapter, on consideration of this matter in the chapter-house, may assign one or two portions of tithes to each prebend, which portion the prebendary for his time shall retain to himself, for his own use, on the same condition that he holds the other lands belonging to his prebend.
Actes in Domo Capitulari Dun. xxo . die Julij, 1567.
MEMORAND.—The daie and yeare above written, it was and is ordeined in the chapter-house, That whereas in the daies and tyme of Mr Raphe Skynner, deane, it was agreed by the said Skynner and the chapter, that everrie prebendarie should have certeine tiethes and certen other landes annexed to him for the augmentinge of there severall prebends, the same articles shal be furthwith noted in some booke of register or memorye.
William Bennett, sen. resident.
Rob. Swift.
Adam Holyday.
Joh. Rud.
Wm. Stevenson.
Joh. Pilkington.
Geo. Cliff.
 
 
Per annum.
1mo.
Canonicatui assignatae sunt Decimae Garbarum de North Sheereburne infra parochiam de Pittington
vij
l.
 
 
 
Decimae de Northe Pittington ibidem
ivj
s.
viij
d.
 
 
Decimae de Hett super montem
xxxiij
s.
iiij
d.
 
 
Decimae de Crokehall infra parochiam Sti. Oswaldi
liij
s.
iiij
d.
 
 
Summa
xiiij
l.
iij
s.
iiij
d.
2do.
Canonicatui assignatae sunt Decimae de Coldhesseldon infra parochiam de Dalton, per annum
v
l.
 
 
 
Decimae de Eden infra parochiam de Hesseldon
iij
l.
iij
s.
iiij
d.
 
Decimae de Hardwicke infra parochiam de Hesseldon
xl
s.
 
 
 
Decimae de Redworthe infra parochiam de Heighington
iiij
l.
 
 
 
Summa
xiiij
l.
iij
s.
iiij
d.
3tio.
Canonicatui Decimae Garbarum de Aikliff assignatae
ix
l.
 
 
 
Decimae Garbar. de Brafferton in par. de Aikliff
iij
l.
vj
s.
viij
d.
 
Decimae de Scholl Aikliff infra par. de Heighington per ann.
xl
s.
 
 
 
Summa
xiiij
l.
vj
s.
viij
d.
4to.
Canonicatui Decimae Garbarum de South Pittington
xl
s.
 
 
 
Decimae Garbarum de Shandforth in par. praed.
vij
l.
vj
s.
4
d.
 
Decimae de South Shereburne ibidem
iij
l.
x
s.
 
 
Decimae de Hagghouse infra par. Sti. Oswaldi per ann.
xxvj
s.
viii
d.
 
 
Summa
xiiij
l.
iij
s.
iiij
d.
5to.
Canonicatui Decimae Garbarum Faeni et Canabi de Shinkliff
x
l.
 
 
 
Omnes Decimae de Ald Durham infra ead. paroch.
iiij
l.
iij
s.
4
d.
 
Summa
xiiij
l.
iij
s.
iiij
d.
6to.
Canon. Decimae Garbar. ville de Hesseldon una cum Decimis Manerij ibidem
viij
l.
xiij
s.
iiij
d.
 
Decimae de Sheraton ibid.
iiij
l.
 
 
 
Decimae de Dalton in par. de Dalton
xl
s.
 
 
 
Summa
xiiij
l.
xiij
s.
iiij
d.
mo.
Canonicatui Decimae Garbar. de Harton infra par. de Jarrowe
ix
l.
x
s.
 
 
Decimae de Wallsend infra eand.
iij
l.
xiij
s.
iiij
d.
 
Decimae de Wardley et Felling infra ead.
xx
s.
 
 
 
Summa
xiiij
l.
iii
s.
iiij
d.
8vo.
Canonicatui Decimae Garbarum de Walworth infra parochiam de Heighington per an.
vij
l.
 
 
 
Decimae Garbar. de Preston infra paroch. de Aikliff
iij
l.
xiij
s.
iiij
d.
 
Decimae Garbarum de Ketton ibidem
iij
l.
vj
s.
viij
d.
 
Decimae de Magna Ricknell ibid.
 
xiij
s.
iiij
d.
 
Summa
xiiij
l.
xiij.
iiij
d.
9no.
Canon Decimae Garbarum de Heighington per ann.
xiij
l.
vj
s.
viij
d.
 
Decimae de West Thickley ibidem
xx
s.
 
 
 
Summa
xiiij
l.
vj
s.
viij
d.
xmo.
Canon. Decimae Garbarum de Huton et Hulam infra parochiam de Heseldon per ann.
viij.
 
 
 
Decimae de Netherheworth infra par. de Jarrow per ann.
xxx
s.
 
 
 
Decimae de Suddicke infra par. de Weremouth
x
l.
vj
s.
viij
d.
 
Summa
xiiij
l.
vj
s.
viij
d.
mo.
Canon. Decimae Garbar. de Morton infra par. de Dalton
v
l.
vj
s.
viij
d.
 
Decimae Garbarum de Bedlington in Northum
r.
ix
l.
 
 
 
Summa
xiiij
l.
vj
s.
viij
d.
xiimo.
Canon. Decimae de Westo infra par. de Jarrow per ann.
vj
l.
xviij
s.
vj
d.
 
Decimae de Willington in cadem
iij
l.
xiij
s.
iij
d.
 
Decimae de Monkton ibid.
l
s.
 
 
 
Decimae de Shelhughe ibid.
xxj
s.
 
 
 
Summa
xiiij
l.
iij
s.
iiij
d.
[See the
nfirmation in Dean Whittington's time.]
.
The lands assigned to the first prebend are, half of the manor, &c. of Elvet-hall, commonly called Hall-garth.
To the second prebend, the other half of the manor of Elvet-hall.
To the third, the manor of Sacriston-hugh, and a close called Holcrofte.
To the fourth, the manor, house, and farm of Witton-Gilbert, Newhouse, and Underside.
To the fifth, the third part of the house, manor, and park of Muggleswick.
To the sixth, another third part of that manor and park.
To the seventh, the house and demesne lands of the manor of Finkell, with the mill and pond there called the Dam.
To the eighth, the remaining third part of the house, manor, and park of Muggleswick.
To the tenth, the mansion-house, garden, farm, lands, and tenements of South Pittington, the close called Pond Garth and Pulter Close.
To the eleventh, the manor of Houghall.
To the twelfth, the manor house of Bewley, with the demesne lands and farm thereto belonging.
All woods, mines, and quarries within each corps lands, are excepted and reserved for the common use and necessaries of the church, and each pay thereto the annual sums following, (viz.)
 
l.
s.
d.
The deanry
10
4
0
First and second prebend
0
13
4
third
0
15
10
fourth
0
10
0
fifth and sixth
0
15
7
seventh
1
9
8
eighth prebend
0
7
9
ninth
1
0
4
tenth
0
13
4
eleventh
5
0
0
twelfth
2
3
4
CHAP. XIX.
—Election of Officers.
Commanding belongs alone to the dean, or in his absence to the sub-dean or senior residentiary; and to the canons present the power of reproving
Modesta admonitio.
. The dean, or, he being out of the realm, the sub-dean, with the chapter assembled, shall yearly on the 20th day of November, with the consent of the chapter, elect out of the body a vice or sub-dean, a treasurer and receiver; which officers the nominees shall not refuse under the penalty of losing all his emoluments for that year. The dean shall be present at such election, if within the realm; but if any lawful cause prevent his attendance on the 20th of November, he shall have power to change the day of election, and appoint another between Michaelmas and the end of the audit, giving a week's notice to the absent canons that they may attend. If upon the first or second scrutiny the members cannot agree in the choice, the election shall fall upon such as the dean, or, he being out of the realm, the vice-dean, and five of the canons present shall nominate
CORRECTION,—"If there be but ten prebendaries, and no more present, then be shall be elected whom the dean or (he being out of the kingdom the sub-dean and five of the prebendaries present should
; but if only eight of the canons or fewer be present, then the dean or vice-dean and four canons shall make the election: But if they cannot still agree, the dissention shall be ended by the bishop's visitorial authority, who, under canonical censure, shall compel them to finish the election
"Concorditer" in orig.
. The same order is to be observed in the annual choice of a precentor and sacrist out of the minor canons.
CHAP. XX.
—The Sub-Dean's Duty.
The sub-dean, in the absence of the dean, or the deanry being vacant, shall preside and have the care of the church, and see that divine offices are duly performed, correcting all omissions and negligencies, and discharging the dean's duty, touching the affairs and rules of the church, as if he was present, except only in such matters where the dean's special assent (or of his proctor in his absence) is required. The deanry being vacant, the sub-dean and chapter shall not put the common seal to leases of lands or other things
"Am saeoch concessionibus" in orig.
that if all the prebendaries are present, the dean must have six with him to make an election and so has only
ng vote.
; or to benefi
advowsons, donations, or offices; or to confirmations of any deeds, except letters of proctorship and attornies, where the affairs of the church or lawsuits require the same to prevent injury and delay. The sub-dean shall take the pre-eminence due to the dean, and as being superior, he shall be more diligent and circumspect in the affairs of the church; that, together with the dean, he may appear like the father of the house: And when the deanry is vacant, he shall have full power to regulate and govern the church, and do all things therein (save those excepted) according to the statutes, until a dean is elected and installed, he being first sworn duly to perform his office.
CHAP. XXI.
—The Receiver-General's Duty.
He is to collect and receive all money, rents, and revenues of the church, as well of spiritualties as temporalties; and the same, when received, is within twenty-eight days after to be duly paid over to the treasurer for the time being. He shall diligently look after the estates of the church, and direct the necessary repairs of houses, unless some fitter person be particularly appointed. He shall do all things prescribed by the dean relative to the lands, tenements, and courts. His stipend being 6l. 13s. 4d. yearly, he shall put the church to no further charge, except 4s. a day allowed him when keeping courts, and such charges as are before stipulated touching the conduct of other affairs of the church. He shall be sworn duly to execute his office, and faithfully observe all things ordered by the dean and chapter touching the collection and receipt of arrears, the churches security, indemnity, and advantage, and due paying over the money belonging thereto.
CHAP. XXII.
—The Treasurer's Duty.
The treasurer shall pay all the stipends as by the statutes are appointed, and also the dividend. It is his duty to repair the church and houses of the ministers (except those of the dean and prebendaries) within the limits thereof
"Infra septum ecclesiae."
, with the consent and appointment of the dean, or in his absence, of the sub-dean, in case the houses are gone out of repair, without the wilful default of the party to whom they respectively belong
"Hoc si propter diuturnitatem & antiquum, rei vitium (usum) & non per culpa illorum sint ruinosae."
: But if they are become ruinous by default, the party shall be compelled to repair them. He shall provide necessary ornaments for the church and choir: Shall take care of the wood and other materials which are prepared for repairs. When the houses of the dean and chapter are out of repair, if on notice the party doth not do what is necessary thereto, the treasurer out of the parties stipend, and at his expence, at the instance of the dean and chapter, shall cause the same to be repaired. The houses of the dean and prebendaries shall not be demised, sold, or changed; any such demise, sale, or exchange, if made, being altogether void; and each person shall be content with the house which was first allotted to him or his predecessor. Each new elected prebendary shall succeed to the house, stable, garden, and other appurtenances, together with the stall in the church and seat in the chapter which his predecessor held. And no dean or prebendary shall take away from his house in the college or country house belonging to his prebendal lands, any fixtures therein
"Seamna, bancos, mensas, tripodes, caelaturas, aut vasa plumbea, et alia utensilia solo tabulata, aut pr
ietibus sixa amoveat,"— so in the orig.
, but shall leave them to the successor: And the like in respect to the minor canons houses
The minor canons had houses,
infra septum ecclesiae;
the precentor and sacrist had each a house, which still remain, and are called by their names: So the minor canons had probably one house among them, each having a
camera
or
cubiculum
assigned.
The answer of the dean and prebendaries to Bishop Cosin's articles of inquiry in his second visitation, A. D. 1665.
For the houses of the petty canons we certified your lordship in your first visitation, that they were all in these late bad times destroyed. That they were formerly but little houses or chambers, made only for unmarried persons, and who had their diet in common. That we had already made their places better than when they had their old houses and stipends: to which notwithstanding, we have of our own accord, and upon public cost, added so much, that we hope in a little time, to see three good houses built for them this year, and have sound out a good way for supply of a fourth; and as soon as Mr Dury can be removed, of a fifth also, though with some charges to repair this. The petty canons'-hall and the guest-hall, since the method of hospitality and diet were changed, were of long time useless and ruined in these last destructive times: But yet our design is, by some reparation of walls, to render the place of the petty canons'-hall more seemly. We found no school-house standing, but have built a large one, with addition of divers rooms. In this article it appears, that the second, sixth, eighth, and ninth prebend houses were a little before rebuilt in whole, or great part.
One of Bishop Cosin's injunctions at the close of his visitation, 1668, was, that no one should carry any thing through the church; but that victuals, or any thing of that sort should be seized, and carried to the gaol, to be distributed among the prisoners.
It appears both by the visitation papers of Bishop Cosin and Bishop Crewe, that
sackbuts
and
cornets
were then used in the church music.
. It belongs also to the treasurer to attend to the repairs of the houses belonging to the chapter within the city of Durham; which repairs shall be made between the 1st day of March and Michaelmas, according to the dean or sub-dean's orders; and not later in the year, unless in cases of great necessity, and where, in the dean's judgment, delay would be materially detrimental. Bills for repairs and other affairs of the church shall not be allowed, unless the dean, or, he being absent and not objecting, the sub-dean shall certify the same. The treasurer shall have charge of the plate, vestments, and muniments, least the sacrist should be negligent; and shall examine them every quarter with the register, &c. that nothing be wanting. He shall likewise take an oath faithfully to discharge his office.
CHAP. XXIII.
—The Qualification, Election, and Admission of the Minor Canons, &c.
The twelve priests or minor canons, the ten clerks, the deacon and sub-deacon, (called the gospeller and the epistler) are to be of good name and conversation, of sound faith, and men of erudition, with voices and sufficient skill in music to serve in the choir. They, with the ten choristers, and eighteen grammar scholars with their masters, and others the officers of the church, are to be chosen by the dean, with the advice of the chapter
"Cum consilio capituli." CORRECTION,—All these to be chosen by the dean and chapter, after the same manner with the sub-dean and treasurer. The grammar scholars are to be chosen according to their progress in learning.
, as before prescribed; all whom (except the choristers and grammar scholars) shall take the following oath:—
Ego (A) in hujus ecclesiae Cath. Christi & beatae Mariae Virg. Dun in numerum cooptatus, juro, quod quandiu in hac ecclesia morabor, omnes ordinationes & statuta ejusdem (quatenus me concernunt) pro meo virili inviolabiliter observabo erga decanum et singulos de capitulo in gestu et verbis debitam obedientiam & reverentiam exhibebo, commodum & honorem hujus ecclesiae diligenter procurabo, sicut me deus adjuvet & haec sancta dei evangelia.
CHAP. XXIV.
—The Attendance of the Minor Canons and others.
The minor canons, singing-men, and all others bearing office in the church, shall not be absent a whole day and night, without leave of the dean, sub-dean, or senior residentiary, under pain of an arbitrary sine. If any of them leave the church, without giving three months notice to the dean or sub-dean, he shall forfeit three months stipend: And if absent from morning service, shall forfeit a penny; if from evening service, a halfpenny; if he comes not in before the first psalm, a farthing. If any one refuse contemptuously to perform the part the precentor enjoins, he shall be fined two-pence. The amount of the forfeitures, at the end of every quarter, or at farthest at the end of the year, shall be divided by the treasurer, among those who attended duly, according to the days of their attendance. The minor canons and priests belonging to the church, shall enjoy only
(quantum in nobis de juri situm est)
one benefice, and that within twenty-four miles of Durham: And so long as they attend the church service, are not obliged to residence.
CHAP. XXV.
—The Precentor's Duty.
He is to be chosen out of the minor canons, of superior age and distinguished conduct and erudition: He shall regulate the order of the whole choir; and boys introduced for the purpose of singing shall be examined by him, and others instructed; and he shall direct what shall be performed, and by whom, to prevent discord. Not only the minor canons and singing-men are to obey his directions, but also the prebendaries, when the solemnity of any festival requires them to perform part of the service. He is to note all absentees without partiality, which is to be laid before the chapter every fortnight. The power of punishing belongs only to the dean and chapter. He is to take care of the books belonging to the choir, and in his absence to have a deputy, who shall be approved by the dean or sub-dean. He shall also take an oath duly to perform his office
By Bishop Crewe's injunctions in 1685, the dean was not to have above thirty loads of fire wood, nor each prebendary above five. None to dry linen in the church-yard, or to suffer horses to graze there. The treasurer's book, after every audit, was to be kept in the treasury, and the treasurer to have a discharge under the chapter seal. Sermons in the cathedral every Wednesday and Friday in Advent and Lent. That the weekly communion be continued, with jubilation. (This last consented to but by four prebendaries.) The statutes to be read over once a year at each great chapter. — Visitation, 1687. It is left to the liberty of the prebendaries to pray before sermon: To pray for the mayor or aldermen, or not to pray for them. They are to read prayers on Sunday when in residence, and when my lord is in church.
By the chapter's answer to Bishop Crewe's injunctions, 1696, it appears their treasury chest had lately been broken open.
.
CHAP. XXVI.
—The Duty of the Sacrist, Vergers, and Bell-ringers.
The SACRIST shall be an industrious and faithful person, and chosen out of the minor canons. Shall have in charge all the vestments, vessels, and ornaments of the church, to be scheduled and examined therewith quarterly; with the advice of the treasurer he shall provide wine, oil, wax, and necessary lights for the church. To visit the sick
Et corum confessiones audiet!
, and administer the sacrament to them, as well as those in health, when need or times require. To receive oblations, and pay them over to the treasurer for the use of the church. To take care of the linen, that it be neat, whole, and clean, and that the books be well bound and preserved: That there be no disturbance during divine service. To take care of the school books, that they may be produced yearly before the dean, to prevent their being lost or destroyed. Also of the books in the library, which are not to be lent to any canon or stranger without the dean or sub-dean's consent; and in that case, the person to give a note of his name and the book borrowed, and engage to return it at a time fixed. He is to have under him two careful, honest men, called SUB-SACRISTS or
vergifers,
sworn to be faithful and obedient to him: They are to fold up the vestments, light the candles, cover the altar, and with a verge go before the bishop, choir, and dean in procession, at their going in and out of church; and to perform all such other duties as vergers do in other cathedral churches. Every year upon the day of election of officers, the vergers are to deliver the
verge
to the dean in the chapter-house, which he is to retain till enquiry is made of their past behaviour; and if found culpable, to remove and place fit persons in their room, so that there may be no pretence of perpetuity in the office. The same rule to be observed in respect to other officers of the church. He shall also have under him two other honest men, to keep the floor and walls of the church clean; to ring or cause to be rung the bells, at the hours appointed by the dean; to take care of the clock, and look after the church. They are to open the church doors in the morning before six o'clock, and shut them in winter time after service, but in summer not till after the ringing of the curfew
See vol. i. page 102.
; and not open them again after that time unless upon some urgent occasion, least any thing criminal should be committed there. They are to search the church after the doors are shut. To take care that the cloisters and other places through which any procession is to be made, be perfectly clean; and to dig the graves in the church-yard. When the sacrist, sub-sacrist, or bell-ringers, are absent on their lawful occasions, they shall be allowed deputies, to be approved by the dean or sub-dean: And all be sworn faithfully to perform their respective duties.
CHAP XXVII.
—The Choristers and their Master.
There shall be ten young boys as choristers, with good voices, to serve in the choir; to teach whom (as well in singing as in good manners, besides the number of clerks) a person shall be appointed, of good fame and conversation, skilful in singing and in the management of the organ: And to encourage his greater attention, he shall have leave of absence on ordinary days; but he must constantly attend upon Sundays and holidays to perform the service: When he has leave of absence, the precentor shall appoint one of the minor canons or singing-men who understands playing on the organ, to do that office. If the master is negligent of the boys' health or education, after a third admonition to be removed. He shall likewise be sworn to perform his duty.
CHAP. XXVIII.
—The Grammar Scholars and their Teachers.
There shall be constantly maintained eighteen poor boys of apt parts, whose friends are not able to give them education, but not to be admitted till they have learned to read and write, and in the dean's judgment, are sufficiently grounded in the first rudiments of grammar: After admission to be maintained by the church, until they competently understand grammar, and can read and write Latin, for which they shall be allowed four years, or with the dean's assent five at the most: None shall be admitted above fifteen years of age. The choristers shall not be limited to that age, but may be admitted scholars if they are fit; in case they have proved themselves particularly serviceable to the choir, and skilful in music, they are to be preferred before any others. If any one is found dull, and without a taste for literature, the dean shall remove him, and appoint another in his room
ne veluti fucus apum mella devoret.
The upper master is to be learned in the Greek and Latin languages, of good fame, found faith and pious life: He shall not only teach the eighteen boys, but also all others that shall resort to his school. The under-master shall bear the like character: They shall teach such books and rules, and follow such order as the dean and chapter (with the bishop's assent) shall prescribe. If they prove negligent, or incapable of teaching, after a third admonition, to be displaced. They are also to be sworn faithfully to perform their duty.
CHAP. XXIX.
—The Eight Poor Men and their Duty.
Eight poor men, such as are disabled by war or age, or otherwise reduced to poverty, are to be appointed by royal mandate, and maintained by the church, and whose duty is to attend divine service daily, so long as their infirmities will permit them; to be assistant to the sub-sacrist and other officers, in lighting and extinguishing the candles, and ringing the bells, if able; and to be obedient to the dean or sub-dean and sacrist in all things which relate to their duty in the church: For default, subject to the dean or sub-dean's reprehension. If they are absent (unless prevented by infirmities) they shall be punished by withdrawing the stipend, and which shall be divided among those that attend. The dean or sub-dean may grant them twenty days leave of absence, but not more, without some urgent occasion, to be allowed of by the dean and chapter. To take an oath for the due performance of their duty.
CHAP. XXX.
—Of inferior Persons belonging to the Church.
The dean, or sub-dean in his absence, (with his consent) shall appoint two industrious men of good name and approved conduct, to be butler and under-butler: Who, with a cook and under-cook, are to provide meat and drink for the minor canon's table, and those other ministers who eat together in common. The porters to keep the keys of the church and college gates; and never to open them in the night time without the express order of the dean, or sub-dean in his absence: One of them to be a barber, who must shave and cut the hair of all persons belonging to the church, gratis. They shall all be sworn to perform their duty faithfully and personally.
CHAP. XXXI.
—Of the Commons.
The minor canons, deacon, and sub-deacon, and clerks, not having wives, shall mess together in the common-hall, where the precentor (or in his absence the senior minor canon) shall preside, and the rest shall sit without distinction of place. The following monthly allowances to be made: To the minor canons, the upper-master of the grammar school, and master of the choristers, six shillings each,—to the deacon, sub-deacon, singing-men, or clerks and usher, four shillings and eight-pence,—to each of the grammar scholars and choristers, three shillings and four-pence,—to the sub-sacrist, ringers, butlers, porters, and cooks, four shillings. They had two stewards, one to serve the whole year, the other one month; the first procured wood, coals, salt, &c. for the year's store; the other, the necessaries for every month: the first examined the stewards accounts at the end of every week, and reported the same to the major part of those who lived together, at the conclusion of the year, by a statement of the whole expence. Both the stewards to be sworn to the due performance of their office.
CHAP. XXXII.
—The Minister's Vestments, commonly called Liveries.
The minor canons, clerks, and other ministers of the church, choristers, grammar scholars, cooks, and poor men, shall use an upper vestment of the same colour. Each minor canon, and head master of the grammar-school, shall receive four yards of cloth for his gown, of the price of five shillings a yard; the master of the choristers, three yards of the same; the deacon and sub-deacon, four yards at four shillings and six-pence; each clerk, and the under grammar master, three yards at four shillings and six pence: The other ministers, as the sub-sacrists, bell-ringers, butlers, porters, and cook, three yards each at three shillings and four pence; the choristers, grammar scholars, and under-cook, two yards and a half, at three shillings and four-pence; the poor men, three yards at three shillings and four-pence. The dean, or in his absence the sub-dean or treasurer, to give the same against Christmas, to be made up by the several parties. The poor men to wear a rose of red silk upon the left shoulder, and never appear in public without their livery gowns.
CHAP. XXXIII.
—The Ministers' Stipends.
Besides their commons and vestments, the treasurer shall pay quarterly to the minor canons and head-master of the school, 5l. 2s.—Master of the choristers, 5l. 7s.—Under-master, 2l. 19s. 2d.—Deacon, 2l. 14s. 8d.—Sub-deacon, 2l. 14s. 8d.—Each clerk or singing-man, 2l. 19s. 2d.—Each sub-sacrist, 2l. 18s.—Each bell-ringer, 1l. 18s.—The butler who buys the provisions, 3l. 6s. 8d.—The porter who is barber, 2l. 18s.—The other porter, 1l. 18s. —The under-butler, 1l. 18s.—The cook, 2l 18 s.—Under-cook, 1l. 18s.— Each chorister, 15s.—Each scholar, 15s.—Each poor man yearly, 6l. 3s. 4d.— Sub-dean, 2l. 13s. 4d.—Receiver, 6l. 13s. 4d.—Auditor, 6l. 13s. 4d.— Treasurer, 2l. 13s. 4d.—Precentor, 2l. 10s.—Sacrist, 2l.—Steward or clerk of the courts, 5l
CHAP. XXXIV.
—Of Divine Service.
All the minor canons, the deacon and sub-deacon, the singing-men and master of the choristers, (except when he has leave of absence to teach the boys) are to assist every day at divine service. They are excused singing the evening service. The dean shall perform the service
in festis principalibus;
the sub-dean
in majoribus duplicibus;
the other prebendaries
in festis duplicibus,
unless there happen some lawful impediment to any, when his turn shall be supplied by some one as near the same rank as possible: None shall officiate without his proper vestment; the dean and canons with their surplices and other habits; the rest of the choir and the boys in surplices. Upon holidays both the upper and under-master are to attend morning and evening prayer in their proper habits, the first to sit above the minor canons, the other below them. The grammar scholars are to be at church on festivals in their surplices, under the direction of the precentor. The dean or prebendaries shall not detain any of the minor canons, singing-men, or other ministers of the church, from divine service upon any account
In this chapter mass is appointed to be celebrated every 27th day of January, for the souls of the king and queen's progenitors, and all the founders and benefactors of the monastery. And a solemn procession, with the mass, on the 1st of October, the queen's coronation day. The day of her death was likewise to be observed with masses, &c.
.
CHAP. XXXV.
— Of the Treasury, the Seal, and Custody of the Writings.
In the treasury are to be lodged all writings, evidences, books of accounts, inventories, and rentals; and also a chest for the security of the church money, wherein shall remain at the end of each year, 200l. to answer all incidental occasions, and therein shall be kept a small box for the public seal, which is not to be put to any writing until the same is fairly transcribed into the register, and therewith examined. The seal fee shall be six shillings and eight-pence. The seal shall not be put to any blank or writing, without the consent of the dean, under the pains of perjury and perpetual exclusion of him that either does, or consents to the doing thereof. In this place shall be lodged the statutes, letters patents of foundation and endowment, and other muniments and writings of the lands and possessions of the church. There shall be three locks to the chest, of different wards, one key to be kept by the dean, another by the sub-dean, and a third by the treasurer; also two keys to the door of the treasury, one to be kept by the dean, the other by the treasurer, who are all, or their deputies, to be assenting and present at the opening thereof. If one or two refuse sealing such instrument as is agreed to by the chapter, he or they shall be subject to such arbitrary penalty as shall be adjudged by the dean and chapter, which if he refuses to submit to, is to be declared guilty of perjury. No one is to have two keys; and a key-bearer going abroad is to leave his key with some canon who is not a key-bearer.
CHAP. XXXVI.
—Of the yearly Accounts.
There shall be a place assigned within the limits of the church where the accounts shall be made up; here the bailiffs, collectors, wood-keepers, officers, and other ministers are to give in their accounts: At the same time the receiver and treasurer shall deliver in their accounts, before the dean and prebendaries, and pay up their balance under the penalty of losing their quotidians until the whole is paid; or a severer mulct, if the offence appear to merit it. The receiver and treasurer's accounts shall be inspected by the dean and chapter twice a year, about Lady-day and after Michaelmas, some time before the audit. They may, if they think proper, have an auditor, whose salary, besides entertainment for himself and one servant, is at most to be 6l. 13s. 4d. The auditor is to take an oath to discharge his office faithfully. The gathering in of the arrears may be assigned by the dean to any one of the chapter beside the receiver: And he is to pay what he receives within one month to the treasurer, and make up his accounts at the end of the year; and is to take an oath for doing his duty. He is to do this business gratis, or may have a salary assigned by the dean, with the advice of the chapter. The account of the goods in use belonging to the church, at the same time shall be laid before them; that if need requires they may be removed, and the state of the church be known to the dean, or vice-dean and the chapter.
CHAP. XXXVII.
—Of correcting Offences.
If any of the minor canons, singing-men, or other ministers and servants of the church, shall be guilty of a small fault, he may be punished at the discretion of the dean, or in his absence, of the sub-dean; but if of a heinous offence, he shall be expelled at the bishop's visitation, and by his judgment and censure corrected or deprived, and thenceforth shall be immediately removed; and previous to the visitation his stipend shall stand sequestered. If any of the prebendaries are guilty of any heinous crime, as heresy, adultery, theft, perjury, or the like, by which the church may come under great scandal, he shall be accused before the bishop at his visitation, and under his judgment and censure shall, if the offence appears to merit it, be deprived and expelled. Whilst the cause is depending before the visitor, the dean and chapter shall sequester all the offender's stipends and revenues. If any of the poor men offend, he is to be corrected by the dean or sub-dean; and if he remains incorrigible, may be expelled by the dean and chapter.
CHAP. XXXVIII.
—Of Alms.
Besides what is allowed to the eight poor men, there is given to the church, the annual sum of 86l. 13s. 4d. for the relief of the poor, and making and repairing the public bridges and highways
See Rymer's Foedera, vol. xv. p. 78.
; of which the sum of 66l. 13s. 4d. shall be distributed partly among the poor upon the church estates, least we should seem,
omnia metere & nihil seminare,
and partly by the dean or treasurer, or one appointed by the dean out of the canons, amongst the poor and indigent neighbours of the church, or any other the dean shall judge necessitous, whose conscience is charged
coram Domino servatone,
with the faithful dispensing this charity; and the visitor is to enquire particularly about it at his visitation. The special causes which influence the distribution shall be shewn at the audit. The remaining 20l. assigned for making and repairing of the public bridges and highways
By inquisition taken and returned the 4th of May, 1594, upon a commission to enquire of charitable uses within this county, the jurors find, that there is assigned, limited, and appointed upon the foundation or end
ment of the cathedral church of Durham, the sum of one hundred marks, by the name of alms-money, yearly to be allowed by the dean and chapter there, to be given to the poor; and likewise twenty pounds towards the repairing of highways and bridges within the county and bishopric of Durham, which sum hath been distributed by the Right Worshipful Dr Matthew, now dean of the church, as by his books, containing the particular distribution thereof, yearly doth and may appear; a brief whereof containing the gross sum by him so yearly distributed, together with the examinations thereof, made by certain her majesty's justices in the said county, (as a statute in that behalf requireth) was exhibited to her majesty's commissioners, and by them collated with the said books, and to the jurors delivered, the tenor whereof is then set forth for several preceding years, and in particular in the year 1592 is the following:
A note of places as by the dean and chapter are appointed, whereon the arrearings of money allowed for repairing of highways and bridges shall be bestowed before the feast of St James the apostle, next coming after the date hereof.
First, to the bridge lying in the West Oxes Pasture, in the way to South-Sheels, forty shillings.—Item, to the causeway at Nevill's Cross, twenty shillings.—Item, to the Waiste nigh the east end of Framwellgate bridge, the ground is in decay, thirteen shillings and four-pence.—Item, to the high street in Southfield to Darlington, on this side Cotton Mundeville from the old causeway, northward about three hundred yards, forty shillings.—Item, to the street in the North Bailey, called Kingsgate, as it lieth down by the North Bailey church-yard, to the postern there, ten shillings. — Item, to the highway up Crossgate, towards Nevill's Cross, twenty shillings — Item, to the highway at Newbridge end, from the causeway there to the causeway lately made at the bank side towards Barns, one pound six shillings and eight-pence.—Item, to the highway towards St Oswald's church, on the far side of the water, thirteen shillings and four-pence.— Item, to the stairs of Mount Bath, thirteen shillings and four-pence.—Item, to the causeways in Rainton lane, six pounds thirteen shillings and four-pence. —Item, to Burdon Wood bridge, two pounds six shillings and eight-pence.—To Hedworth bridge, one pound. To Auckland lane, two pounds.—To the highway between Cottom and Darlington, one pound ten shillings.—To Ketton bridge, one pound.—To Willington mill bridge, two pounds —To the highway between Chester and Birtlie, three pounds six shillings and eight-pence.—To the highway by Driburn, one pound.—To Skern Oxen bridge, one pound. To Wolsingham bridge, and other places within the county and bishopric of Durham, where greatest need is, eight pounds nineteen shillings and five-pence farthing.—And further the said jurors cannot find upon this article.
☞ As the county rates run exceedingly high, this seems to be a fit subject of enquiry by the justices in session, whether this twenty pounds has been duly applied of late years, for the benefit of the county at large; it being apprehended to be solely appropriated by the chapter to their new bridge at Durham, which they will not allow to be a public carriage bridge.
, is to be expended consistent with the judgment of the dean or sub-dean and chapter, and to be accounted for at the general audit. The bishop is likewise to enquire after this dispensation at his visitation.
CHAP. XXXIX.
—Of holding the Chapters.
The dean or sub-dean, with the prebendaries present, shall hold a chapter in the chapter-house every fortnight, or oftener if occasion requires, to treat of the affairs of the church;
(pie et prudenter)
and every year there shall be two general chapters, one on the 20th of November, the other on the 20th of July; in which whatever is done and agreed upon, not contrary to the statutes, shall be obligatory on all that belong to the church. The dean and every prebendary is to be present at one of these chapters, (unless absent as before allowed, upon a reason to be approved of by the dean and chapter) otherwise he loses the whole money which otherwise would be received
pro corpore prebendae suae,
for the whole year.
CHAP. XL.
—The Visitation of the Church.
The bishop of Durham for the time being is visitor, who is required to see that the statutes and orders are inviolably observed; that the goods and possessions of the church, as well spiritual as temporal, be in a flourishing condition, and the rights, liberties, and privileges thereof preserved and defended. The visitor may be called in by the dean or two of the prebendaries: And once in three years may visit without being called, either in his own person, or by his vicar thereto duly deputed, who shall convoke in some proper place, the dean, prebendaries, minor canons, singing-men, and all other officers of the church, and interrogate them upon any and every the articles contained in these statutes, or any other articles relating to the state, profit, or honour of the church, and oblige them by virtue of the oath they have taken, to declare the truth touching the matters enquired of; and according to what is proved, appoint punishment agreeable to the nature and degree of the offence, and as the statutes require; and reform and do all things which may seem necessary to the rooting out vice, and which of right belongs to the office of visitor: And all are hereby required to obey him. No one by virtue of his oath shall alledge any thing against the dean or canons, or other officers of the church, but what he believes to be true, or is derived from public fame or report. The bishop or his deputy, with his family or attendants, when visiting, is to be entertained once, or at the most but twice, by the dean at the charge of the church. If there appears any ambiguity in, or any dispute happens between the dean and canons, or amongst the canons themselves, touching the true sense and meaning of the statutes, which are always to be understood
juxta planum & grammaticalem sensum,
it is to he referred to the bishop, and the parties shall abide by his interpretation, so it be not contrary to the statutes. The visitor is prohibited making any new statutes,
(hiisce statutis contraria)
and shall not dispense with any of them. The dean and prebendaries are prohibited receiving any new statutes made by others, or any dispensations, under the pains of perjury and loss of their preferments for ever. A power is reserved to the crown of altering, changing, or dispensing with these statutes; and likewise, if thought proper, of making new ones.
Then follow the prayers to be used in the grammar school, and by the poor men and others; after, this subscription,
NICHOL. EBOR.
Electus.
EDMUNDUS LONDINENS.
CUTHBERTUS DUNELMENS.
WILLM. ARMISTEAD
Anthony Salvyn, one of the prebendaries, was sent up as proxy for the chapter of Durham, to appear before Cardinal Pole and the queen's commissioners, the 30th of Oct. 3 and 4 Phil. and Mary, when the corrective statutes were made. 'Tis said, the originals were kept by the cardinal, and by him sent to Rome, for they never came back again, and in all probability are now in the Vatican.
1665, Sept. 12. At a meeting between Bishop Cosins and the dean and chapter, it was agreed amongst other things.—
That an exemplification of the statutes of the church should be procured from the Rolls, or the Tower, or any of the king's courts, within a twelve moneth after it hath pleased God to cease the present pestilence.
The following is Dr Basire's answer to the chapter, and literally transcribed from the original.
I took the paines to cause a search to be made in the rolls, but found nothing. The like I did with Mr Dugdale, when he was searching the records of the dioceses, and the records of St Paul's church, and to encourage him, gave him a gratuity from the dean and chapter, but sped no better. What may be found in the Tower I know not, having had neither time nor opportunity to search there; Mr William Prynn (no great friend to cathedrals) being the keeper of these records.
.
Facta collatione concordat cum originali libro, apud reverendissimum dominium Reginaldum Cardinalem legatum a latere, et archiepiscopum cantuariensem totius Angliae primatem, remanente.
An Act of Chapter,
20
July,
1556.
Considering that this our church, during the late schism, has been spoiled of all its ornaments and much wasted; and moreover, that a very small stipend is assigned by the statutes to the ministers of this church, to alleviate which, we the dean and chapter, by common and unanimous consent, this 20th day of July, in the year of our Saviour 1556, in a general chapter held at Durham, have ordained and decreed, that whoever after this day shall be admitted into the place of canon or prebendary of this church, however becoming vacant before he be installed, is to pay the precentor three shillings and four-pence; the register six shillings and eight-pence; the two vergers four shillings; for bread and wine five shillings; to the bell-ringers one shilling; the chapter of the resident prebendaries one pound; to the fabric and ornaments of the church one pound: And this we will to be observed as a local statute of the church for ever.
The stipends are then stated, as before noted in the 33d chapter, &c.
Analecta Capitularia Ex Archivis Dunelm.
An account of the practices of the church, about the lands and tithes, commonly called
corps
and
bycorps,
lotteries, dividends, residences, &c. since the erection of the deanry: Extracted out of the register-books and rentals, &c. supposed to be collected by Dr Basire. The original signed P. Smith, register.
It has been the custom since the erection, to call the lands assigned to the dean and prebendaries for augmentation of residence and hospitality their corps; although in our local statutes the yearly stipend of the dean is said to be given him
pro corpore decanatus sui,
and of the prebendaries
pro corpore prebendae suae;
the word
corps
being used herein not otherwise, nor
bycorps
at all.
Our statutes were made by Queen Mary, in the first year of her reign, she being enabled thereto by an act of parliament. The former statutes by King Henry VIII. being defective, as in other things, so in point of law, as appears by the preamble of that act. We have, I suppose, no copy of the old statutes, but by some passages in our books, we may think they did not differ much from the new, in the matter of corps, and some other particulars: Bishop Tunstall having, as it is probable, a great hand in both; and there is a traditional commendation of him for the good service he did the church concerning the statutes.
But searching into the practice, we find these corps not so disposed of for a good while as they are now. At the erection of the deanry, although their corps with other lands, were settled upon the dean and prebendaries, they came not all of them into their hands at the same time, the prior and convent had leased out some, as Houghhall and Witton-Gilbert, for forty years, and South Pittington for thirty-five years, some two years before the dissolution; for if it had been but one year before, the leases had been void by an act of parliament. And King Henry VIII. in the interval between the dissolution and erection, had made a grant of more of them to several persons for twenty-one years, &c.
As the remaining part of this account is in no wise interesting to the public; and relates to the private management of the chapter, we think it prudent to proceed no further therein.
DEAN WATSON,
chaplain to Gardiner bishop of Winchester, was esteemed a warm Roman Catholic
Coll. Eccl. Hist. v. 2. p. 588.
; and was a great favourite with cardinal Pole
Burnet's Reform. 3. p. 264.
: Continuing dean of Durham until the year 1557, he was made bishop of Lincoln by papal provision, the bull bearing date the 24th of March; and was consecrated on the 15th of August. There is some doubt whether his deanry was then resigned, for he wrote himself Bishop of Lincoln, and Dean of Durham, till the 26th of September, 1558: He was removed from the See of Lincoln by authority of parliament, in the beginning of queen Elizabeth's reign, as being an enemy to reformation, and the queen's supremacy over the church; having threatened her majesty with excommunication
Ath. Oxon. v. 1. p. 100.
. Becoming highly obnoxious to the new principles, he was imprisoned in the Tower of London, in 1559
Collier ut sup.
, and there remained, or in some other durance in or about London, until the year 1580
Collier. Fasti Oxon. 1559.—Grey's notes MSS. 1582.
; when, together with Jo. Feckenham and others, he was sent prisoner to Wisbich-castle, in Cambridgeshire, and dying there, was privately buried on the 17th of Sept. 1584, in Wisbich church, without any monument. In his youth he wrote several poems
He was given much to poetry and making plays, and gained great commendations for his Antigone out of Sophocles by the learned men of his time, who have further avowed, that as George Buchanan's tragedy called Jephtha, hath, among all tragedies of that time, been able to abide the touch of Aristotle's precepts, and Euripides' examples, so hath also the tragedy of this Tho. Watson, called Absalon, which was in a most wonderful manner admired by them, yet he would never suffer it to go abroad. Fasti Oxon. Ath. Oxon. v. 1. p. 82.
; in elder life, being then
of a sour disposition,
as one writer saith
Auth. of Execution of Justice in Eng.
, and
learned in deep divinity, but surly, with an austere gravity
Camden's Ann. Rog. Eliz.
: He published several religious tracts, particularly two sermons, preached before queen Mary, touching the real presence in the sacraments
Robert Crowley wrote against him,
A setting open the subtle sophistry of Thomas Watson, D. D. which he used in his two sermons, preached before Queen Mary, in Lent, 1553, concerning the real presence in the sacraments.
Ath. Oxon. v. i. p. 190.
. Pitts gives him the character of a famous preacher, a solid divine, and a good poet
Pitts de illust. Aug. Scriptr. p. 783.
Vide also Willis.—Burnet's Reform. 3. p 264.—Godwin de Praesulibus, &c.
.— On the 23d of July, 1558
Ath. Oxon. says 23 July, 1357.
, he was succeeded by
THOMAS ROBERTSON,
who was born either at, or in the neighbourhood of Wakefield, Yorkshire; was originally of Queen's College, Oxford, and afterwards of Magdalen College, wherein he had a fellowship: Was master of the adjoining school; and about the year 1539, was treasurer of the church at Salisbury. It is said the congregation of Regents were supplicated by him, for admission to the reading of the sentences, being then esteemed
Flos & decus Oxonii.
In 1540, by the interest of Langland, bishop of Lincoln, he was made archdeacon of Leicester, and enjoyed that office till the year 1560: Was some time rector of St Laud's church, at Sherrington, in the county of Bucks; and in 1546, was instituted vicar of Wakefield, on which he resigned his treasurership: His character was that of a correct grammarian, and that he greatly exceeded his predecessors in the education of his pupils; he added
Quae genus
to Lilly's grammar: In the year 1549, we find him named among those who were appointed by King Edward VI. to compose the church liturgy. At the time the deanry of Durham was given, the queen greatly respected him for his piety and learning, would have nominated him to a bishopric, which was modestly refused. He was the author of several grammatical works; was ejected from his deanry in 1559, to make room for Dr Horn's restoration. On Horn's promotion to the See of Winchester, he might have been replaced, on taking the supremacy oath, but refused: He resigned his archdeaconry to avoid the disgrace of an ejection, and though a better adversary to reformation, and busy in spreading his arguments in Yorkshire, was overlooked, as some thought, because of his lameness
Strype Ann v. i. p. 278.
; but Willis
V. i. p. 213.
says, he was taken into custody: What afterwards became of him, our authorities are silent
Ath. Oxon. v. i. p. 103.—Strype Eliz. p. 244.—Fuller's Ch. Hist. cent. 16. p. 385.—Collier's Eccl. Hist. v. ii. p. 348.—
Grey's Notes, MSS.
.
ROBERT HORN,
in 1559, was restored to this deanry, but remained a very short time, being made bishop of Winchester, the 16th February, 1560
Willis. v. i. p. 253.
He was one of the compilers of the liturgy, v. Sparrow Collect. 137. Heylin's Eliz. 130.—He was restored after September 14. Reg. D. and Cha. D. p. 110.—He is frequently taken notice of in his register, as
in remotis agens.
He is stiled in the register
Permissione Divina Decanus,
p. 114, 116. The first time he appeared in the registers, as dean a second time, was January 28, 1559. Reg. &c.
. In the same month
RALPH SKYNNER
was appointed dean, and installed on the 5th of March following: He was a student of New College, Oxford; whether he took the degree of master of arts, or of any other faculty, in that university
Wood's Fasti Oxon. 688.
, is not known, but being elected warden of that college in May, 1551, was on that occasion stiled master of arts: Wood and others note him as a member of the House of Commons in the year 1554
His speech in Q. Mary's third parliament. v. Burnet's Ref. p. 277, 278, &c.
: Archbishop Parker recommended him to this deanry, and gave him the character of being "learned, wise, and expert
Stryp. Life of Archbishop Parker, p. 87.
." On the 22d of June, 1561, a recantation sermon was preached by him at Paul's Cross, wherein he gave warning of a note book he had printed, bidding every man take heed of it, as
very heresy
Stryp. Eliz. p. 235.
. In 1559, he was appointed master of Sherburn hospital in this county: In 1561, was made temporal chancellor; and being rector of Sedgfield, in the same county, died there, and was interred on the 21st of January, 1562-3.
In this dean's time, it was agreed in Chapter, that certain tithes should be annexed to each prebend; the same was confirmed under dean Whittingham, and the augmentation hath continued to this time, (see page 127.) To him succeeded
WILLIAM WHITTINGHAM,
on the 19th of July, 1563, who was installed on the 8th of October
Reg. p. 186.
. He was born in the city of Chester, son of William Whittingham,
Esq
by a daughter of —Haughton, of Haughton Tower: Became a commoner of Brazen-Nose College in Oxford, in the year 1540, being then 16 years of age, where he made great proficiency in literature
Ath. Oxon. v. i. 2 edit. p. 57.
: Having become bachelor of arts, he was elected fellow of All-Souls', in 1545: And two years afterwards, was made one of the seniors of Christ-Church, on its foundation by K. Henry VIII. who endeavoured to replenish the same with the first scholars of the university. On the 17th of May, 1550, having obtained leave to travel for three years, his time was spent chiefly at the university of Orleans, where he married the daughter of Lewis Jacquiene
Gray's notes, MSS. He married the sister of John Calvin.
. He returned to England in the latter end of the reign of K. Edward VI. but on the accession of Q. Mary, was one of the fugitives to Frankfort, and afterwards became a member of the church of Geneva: On John Knox's leaving that society, to return to Scotland, Whittingham was prevailed upon by Calvin to become a minister of the church: He engaged, with other learned men of that society, in an English translation of the Bible; but it was not finished before several of those employed therein returned to England, on Q. Elizabeth coming to the crown: Whittingham remained near eighteen months at Geneva, to perfect the work; during which time, he reduced into metre five of David's psalms, (inscribed W. W.) of which the 119th was one; together with the ten commandments, and a prayer, now placed at the end of the version. Soon after his return to England, he was employed to accompany Francis, earl of Bedford, on his embassy of condolence for the death of the French king, in 1560: And he attended Ambrose, earl of Warwick, to Newhaven, to be preacher there, whilst the earl defended it against the French; on which occasion he shewed a reproachable disposition, in spiriting the people against uniformity: The earl, either to be rid of him, or through an esteem, which even his improprieties could not wean, obtained this deanry of the queen, on Skynner's death, although the same had been promised by her majesty to Dr Wilson, then one of her secretaries of state. Whittingham enjoyed the deanry sixteen years; was a violent opposer of measures touching the sacerdotal vesture, and used all his influence with the earl of Leicester therein; supporting Bishop Pilkingtru's arguments to the utmost of his power: He wrote to the earl, and, as Collier observes
Eccl. Hist. v. i. p. 493.
,
Wrought the point with more heat than his bishop, and made the colours more glowing: He cited several of the fathers, though wide of his purpose, and at length fell into vehemence and coarse language.
Notwithstanding all applications to the contrary, the order touching sacerdotal vestments issued in 1564
See a succinct account in Collier's Eccl. Hist. v. ii. p. 495.
, and was urged in such a manner, that they that refused the same were not permitted to exercise their ministry; on which the dean submitted thereto. It was not long before he was severely upbraided, for this compliance, by one who was with him at Geneva: But finding an apt reply, answering, that he and others knew, and had heard John Calvin say,
That for external matters of order, they might not neglect their ministry,
for so should they, for tithing of mint, neglect the greater things of the law.
He was a great advocate for singing in the church, and provided the best anthems used in the queen's chapel, being himself skilful in music
For the same degree (bachelor of divinity, 22d March 1566) did William Whittingham, M. A. dean of Durham, supplicate, but whether he was admitted appears not.
On the 17th of February, W. Whittingham before-mentioned, who that day had supplicated for the degree of bachelor of divinity, did also supplicate for that of doctor; but it doth not appear that he was admitted to either.
Fasti. Oxon. Wood. v. i. ed. 2d.
. Whittingham did essential services to government in the rebellion, 1569, and was a warm defender of the privileges of his church, in opposing the archbishop's visitation, in 1577
Strype Ann. v. 2. p. 48.
. Richard Bancroft, in his writings, called him,
the false and unworthy dean of Durham
Ath. Oxon. Will. Whittingham,
the unworthy dean
of Durham.
: He rendered himself obnoxious at court, by a zealous preface, wrote by him, to Christopher Goodman's book
See an account of this book, with its preface. Stryp. 2 Eliz. vol. i. p. 125, 327.—Id. Parker.—Id. Grindal.
, which professedly denied the right of governing to belong to a woman: This occasioned him to become the mark of public reprehension. Archbishop Sandys, in the visitation of this province,
having heard of some irregularities in the church of Durham, (that See being then void) begins a visitation thereof: The dean whereof, he understood, was no ordained minister, according to the order of the church of England, having received his orders at Geneva, in the English congregation there. But that church refused his visitation; which caused a contest between the said church and the archbishop, which proceeded even to an excommunication: And for the better searching into the merits of the cause, and for putting some good conclusion to this difference, a commission was at length, by the lord-keeper, issued out, to some persons to hear it
Strype Ann. v. ii. p. 181.
.
— This commission we have in Rymer's Foedera, vol. xv. p. 785, dated 14th of May, 1578. It was directed to the archbishop of York, the lord president, the bishop of Durham, the dean of York, and others, to enquire into dean Whittingham's orders. Upon the examination it did not appear, that he was ordained according to the order of Geneva, as then established; nor according to the law of this realm; for the ordination of K. Edward VI. was repealed by Q. Mary, and that repealed 1st of Q. Elizabeth; and that of K. Edward, restored the 8th of Q. Elizabeth. The dean's certificate produced, was,
that it pleased God, by lot and election, of the whole English congregation, to choose him to the office of preaching, &c.
But this being objected to, he produced another certificate, viz.
That it pleased God, by the suffrages of the whole congregation, orderly to choose W. Whittingham into the office of preaching:
It was objected, that there was no ordination by election or lot, in any church in Europe: The archbishop was for depriving him, but the dean of York and lord president were against it; and said, it was not fit to allow popish orders, and refuse orders of reformed churches. The dean soon after departing this life, nothing was determined
Strype Ann. v. ii. p. 520. Dr Birch's Life of Archbishop Tillotson, 171.
See Bishop Nicholson's Eng. Hist. lib. 141.—Mon. p. 44, 67, 101.—
Barnard's Cat. MSS. tom. i. pt. i
. p. 367.
.
Dean Whittingham was guilty of much profanation on the pious monuments and sacred remains in this church. The account given by Wood
Ath. Oxon. v. i. p. 154.
, of those acts of violence and irreligion, is shortly stated to the reader; but antecedent thereto, we beg leave to observe, that in all ages, and with all people, where civilization and the true spirit of religion prevailed, things applied to pious offices and religious ceremonies were held in such veneration, that defiling and employing them in mean and contemptuous uses, was forbidden and punished. The example of Balthazar, in holy writ, is tremendous; though the superstitious rites of the Jewish temple might render the vessels he abused, as odious to those who stripped them from the sacred places, as ever dean Whittingham held the vessels of the church at Durham. Disturbing the ashes of the dead, is an offence to human nature, such as the most ignorant of savages refrain from; polished nations of antiquity held such remains in the highest veneration, and did not conceive the most depraved mind capable of their profanation: The Egyptian who left his father's corps unredeemed, was denied the privileges of society. In profane history, the story of Cambyses affords us reflections of the like nature. The learned Dr Prideaux is a sufficient authority to quote this instance
Prideaux's Connection, &c. v. i. p. 244.
; and his words are,
As he mounted his horse for the march, his sword falling out of the scabbard, gave him a wound on the thigh, of which he died a few days after. The Egyptians remarking, that it was in the same part of the body, where he had afore wounded the Apis, reckoned it as an especial judgment from Heaven upon him, for that fact,
and perchance they were not much out of it: For it seldom happening, in an affront given to any particular mode of worship, how erroneous soever it may be, but that religion is in general wounded thereby; there are many instances in history, wherein God hath very signally punished the profanations of religion in the worst of times, and under the worst mode of heathen idolatry.
" Wood proceeds thus, "The works of impiety that Whittingham performed, while he sat dean of Durham, were very many, among which I shall tell you of these. Most of the priors of Durham having been buried in coffins of stone, and some in marble, and each coffin covered with a plank of marble, or free stone, which lay level with the paving of the church, (for anciently men of note that were laid in such coffins, were buried no deeper in the ground than the breadth of a plank to be laid over them, even with the surface of the pavement) he caused some of them to be plucked up, and appointed them to be used as troughs, for horses to drink in, or hogs to feed in. All the marble and free stones also that covered them, and other graves, he caused to be taken away and broken, some of which served to make pavement in his house. He also defaced all such stones as had any pictures of brass, or other imagery work, or chalice wrought, engraven upon them; and the residue he took away and employed them to his own use, and did make a washing house of them, at the end of the centery garth; so that it could not be discerned afterwards that ever any were buried in the said centery garth, it was so plain and straight. The truth is,
he could not abide any thing that appertained to a goodly religiousness, or monastical life
Davies' Rites and Monuments.—This book was written by Anon. (one that had belonged to the choir of Durham), and published by John Davies of Kidwelly, in 1672.
. Within the said abbey church of Durham, were two holy-water stones, of fine marble, very artificially made and engraven, and bossed with hollow bosses, upon the outersides of the stones, very curiously wrought. They were both of the same work, but one much greater than the other. Both these were taken away by this
unworthy dean,
and carried into his kitchen, and employed to profane uses by his servants, steeping their beef and salt fish in them, having a conveyance in the bottoms of them, to let forth the water, as they had when they were in the church, to let out holy-water, &c. He also caused the image of St Cuthbert, (which before had been removed from its proper place by dean Robert Horn, who also had a hand in such impieties) and also other ancient monuments to be defaced and broken all to pieces, to the intent that there should be no memory of that holy man, or of any other who had been famous in the church, and great benefactors thereto, (as the priors his predecessors were) left whole and undefaced. I say it again, that he did this to the end, that no memory or token of that holy man, St Cuthbert, should be left, who was sent and brought thither by the power and will of Almighty God, and was thereupon the occasion of the erection of the monastical church of Durham, where the clergy and servants have all their livings and commodities from that time to this day. At length, after his many rambles in this world, both beyond and within the seas, and his too forward zeal for promoting his Calvinistical (if not worse) opinions, whereby much mischief happened to the church of England, he did unwillingly (being then full of worldly troubles) submit himself to the stroke of death, on the 10th day of June, 1579, and was buried in the cathedral church of Durham; soon after was a tomb-stone laid over his grave, with an epitaph of twelve long and short verses, engraven on a brass plate, fastened thereto; which, with most, if not all of the monuments, which were set up after his time, were miserably defaced by the Scots, when they invaded England, in 1640. So that as he had before in a woeful manner, violated the monuments of his predecessors and others, so was his, by invaders; and nothing now left to preserve his memory, or person to shew the place where his carcase was lodged.
After what Wood has said of our dean, it is justice to his character to gather up the sentiments of other authors
Oldmixon's, Q. Eliz. 429. sub. anno 1571.—Archbishop Grindal's life, 170, 477.
Wood, Williams, Whittingham, and Sutton,
Valued the prayer book not a button:
The liturgy they grudg'd to say,
And threw the surplice quite away;
Alter'd confession, chang'd the hymns,
For old Jack Hopkin's pithy rhimes.
Ward's Reformation, cant. i.
.
The Lord Burleigh being advanced to the white staff, his place of secretary of state, if we believe A. Wood, was likely to be given to dean Whittingham, so noted a Puritan, that he has many an ill word from that Oxonian, who however says of him, had he stirred in it, and made interest with his friend Robert, earl of Leicester, he might have obtained it.
Bancroft, another such rigid doctor as Whitgift, in a treatise of his, stiles Whittingham
the false, unworthy dean of Durham,
for taking upon him that deanry, when he was only master of arts, and, by the statutes of the church at Durham, he should have been a doctor or bachelor of divinity: With such straws are these men's heads stuffed. It gave also great offence, that he should content himself with a Geneva ordination, and for this they did not forbear injuring him, in saying he encouraged Knox and Goodman, in setting up sedition in Scotland; for the settlement made by Knox in Scotland, was the reformed religion, and not sedition. Dr Sandys, now archbishop of York, suspecting that the gentle hand of Dr Pilkington, late bishop of Durham, had given the Puritans too much encouragement in that diocese, resolved to visit it himself, Dr Barnes, the new bishop, having complained to him, of the number of non-conformists, whom he could not reduce to the orders of the church. But whatever his pretence was for this grand visitation, the real design was supposed to be against Whittingham, whom Sandys valued not the more for having been a fellow exile with him in Germany, in the bloody reign of queen Mary. He was a divine of great learning, an admirer of Calvin and the church of Geneva, which the late honourable and reverend Dr Compton, bishop of London, stiled his brethren, in a letter he wrote to them, and which the Laudeans treat with contempt or indignation, as schismatics. It seems dean Whittingham had only had Geneva ordination, which I believe as much, as that the sun is now shining in a very fine day, is by the bulk of the inferior clergy, and younger academics, at this time looked upon to be no more an ordination than that of a vestry would be. There were thirty-four other articles against him; but that was like an ignorant rustic's insisting to have a fellow hanged for stealing his goose, when he had just been convicted of burglary: The latter was sufficient to hang him, and the goose afterwards not worth mentioning. If he was no priest, as archbishop Sandys urged, on account of his foreign ordination, that would have outed him of course, and then what signified the other roll of articles: But the dean, instead of answering the charge, stood by the rights of the church of Durham, and denied the archbishop's power of visitation; upon which the archbishop excommunicated him, that is, denied him the privilege and benefit of receiving the Lord's supper. The dean appealed to the queen, who directed a commission to the archbishop, to the lord president of the North, and to the dean of York, to hear and determine the validity of his orders, and to enquire into the other misdemeanors contained in the articles: The lord president was a favourer of the Puritans, and Dr Hutton, dean of York, of Whittingham's principles, and boldly averred, that the dean was ordained in a better sort than even the archbishop himself; so that the commission came to nothing. Sandys, vexed at the disappointment, and at calling in question his right of visitation, the reader sees how it goes, the power, the denomination, the self ever uppermost, obtained another commission, directed to himself, to the bishop of Durham, the lord president, (he must come after notwithstanding his precedency) the chancellor of the diocese, and some others, whom he could depend upon, to visit the church of Durham: The aim of Sandys and Barnes was to deprive Whittingham of his deanry, as a layman. When the dean appeared before the commissioners, he produced a certificate under the hands of eight persons, for the manner of his ordination; upon which the lord president rose up, and said, I cannot in conscience agree to deprive him for that cause only, for it will be ill taken by all the godly and learned, both at home and abroad, that we should allow of the popish massing priests in our ministry, and disallow of ministers made in a reformed church; upon which the commission was adjourned
sine die.
— One cannot help observing here, how the noble and the wise abhorred persecution, and how enlarged their minds were in comparison with the lordly ecclesiastics. These proceedings of the archbishop against the dean were invidious, and lost him his esteem, both in city and county. Besides the calling the dean's ordination in question, was contrary to the statute 13th Elizabeth, by which the ordinations of foreign reformed churches were declared valid; and those that had no other orders, were made of like capacities with others, to enjoy any place of ministry within England. It is strange the archbishop of York, and the bishop of Durham, among other articles against the dean, did not think of that mentioned by Wood, the Oxonian, who doubtless thought it of the highest importance, which was, that he was only graduated master of arts, whereas the statutes of the church of Durham required, that the dean should be a bachelor of divinity
Chap. v. p. 120.
. What trifles do they hoard up for treasures! He is charged with horrid impieties by Wood, &c. &c. sure I am that all these, and other the like impieties, as the Oxonian calls them, are in no degree so impious, as what himself says of that idolatrous monk Cuthbert's being brought to Durham, by the power and will of Almighty God, to set up a church full of idols, and priests almost as stupid as the wooden images they worshipped
Gyll's Notes and MSS. penes G. Allan.
.
The reader now hath both sides of Mr Whittingham's character.
The agreement entered into in Dean Skynner's time
See page 126.
, touching an augmentation of the prebends, was confirmed on the 20th of November, 1573
All and singular the which premisses, touching the same division or proportion of tithes, we William Whittingham, dean, and the Chapter of the cathedral church of Durham, &c. being this 20th day of November, 1573. in the sixteenth year of the reign of our sovereign Lady Elizabeth, &c. lawfully congregated, deliberately treating of the same in our chapter-house, on this great or general chapter day, do, by our common or general assent and consent, for us and our successors, by these presents, enact, ratify, and confirm, and allow the said division, proportion, and assignments of tithes, for ever to stand and continue to every one of the twelve prebendaries, and their successors, as they be before rated. In witness whereof, to these presents, we the said Dean and Chapter, have put to our chapter seal, and subscribed our names, the said 20th day of November, in the said sixteenth year of our said sovereign Lady Elizabeth, &c.
.
In 1577, the disturbances between the chapter and their tenants, became so serious, as to require the interposition of the state, and thereupon the queen's privy council in the north were ordered to hear the parties, and make determination thereon; on which occasion an adjudication was made, as a perpetual ordinance to be observed between them
The ORDER sett downe by the Right Honorable the Lordes of the Queenes Majesties Privie Counsell in the Northe Parts, betwene the Deane and Chapiter of Durham, and theire Tenaunts,
the 17th Day of August, 19th Year of Queen Elizabeth, 1577.
WHERE heretofore great contentions have arisen betwene the Deane and Chapiter of Duresme on th' one partie, and sundrie of theire tennants in the countrie palatyne of Duresme, clameinge to holde theire fermeholdes by tenant-right on th' other partie, as well before the Right Honorable the Lordes and others of the Queenes Majesties Privie Counsell, and before the Lorde President and Counsell in the Northe Partes, as also at the common lawes of this realme; for the endinge of which troubles, and for a quietnes hereafter to be had, and for the continuance and maintenance of the service of the inhabitants of that countrie due to the Quenes Majestie, her heires, and successors, It is nowe ordered and decreed, by the Right Honorable Privie Councell, as by certaine articles hereafter ensuethe.
First, wherein theire former suites and troubles, the saide tenaunts claimed to holde theire sermeholdes by tenant-right, and that the Deane and Chapiter alledged them to be onelie theire tennaunts at will, because some of them had taken no leases by a longe tyme, and yet it appeared by an auncient booke and register of the leases made by the predecessors of the saide Deane and Chapiter, shewed to the saide president and councell in the north parts, that the lands in contention belongeinge to that house, had manie tymes bene letten for yeres by lease: and also by a triall at the common lawe by which it should seme the saide lands and tenements shoulde not be holden by tenaunt right.
Therefore it is ordered and decreed, that all the same tenaunts at will, and tennants clameinge by tenaunt right, shall relinquishe and give over for them, theire heires and assignes for ever, all theire titles, rightes and clames of tennant right in the premisses and everie part thereof.
And forsomuche as upon debaitinge of the matter, it appeared and could not be denyed by the said Deane and Chapiter, but that the saide tennants be bounde by the custome of that countreye, and the orders of the borders of Englande for anenst Scotlande, to serve her majestie, her heires, and successors, at everie tyme when they be commanded in warrelike manner upon the frunturs, or elsewhere in Scotlande, by the space of systene daies without waiges, which they shall not be able to doe, if they should be overcharged with greate synes, or raising of rents: Therefore, and for other godlike charitable and lawful considerations, it is further ordered and decreed,
That everie of the saide tenaunts shall from henceforthe have and enjoye theire severall fermeholdes with chapiter tennurs accordinge to the intent of theise saide articles and draught of an
indenture or lease hereafter sett downe and expressed, and accordinglie shall take leases of the saide Deane and Chapiter, and shall paie theire rents at the daies and tymes accustomed, and that everie tennant shall paie, doe, and make all other rents, services, and reparations, and customes, as the tennaunts of everie suche tenement or fermeholde hath heretofore done, paied, or made, for the said fermeholde, or of right ought to have done, paied, or made.
And it is further ordered, that th' eldest sonne of everie tennaunt, if he sue for the same within one yeare next after the deathe of his father, and for defalt of suche sonne, the sonne and heire of th' eldest sonne, the brother of th' eldest sonne, if he be livinge, or els his sonne; and for defalt thereof, the brother of the last tenaunt, if he be then livinge, or els his sonne sucinge for the same as before shall be admitted tenant of the saide tenement and fermeholde that the father or other last tennaunt had at the tyme of his deathe, dureinge his liffe, paieinge onelie thre yeres fyne at the most, to the saide Deane and Chapiter, and their successors, and paieinge, doeinge, and makeinge yerelie, the rents, services, reparations, and customes, due to the said tenement and fermeholde, and this order to be observed for ever: And if the tenaunt fortune to have no sonne nor sonne's sonne, nor brother, nor brother's sonne as is aforesaide; that then it shall be in the election of the saide Deane and Chapiter for the tyme beinge, to choise theire tennant, and to lett him the same for his lyffe, in forme aforesaide. The true meaninge of this article is, that if the sonne, brother, or other be within age at the tyme of the deathe of the tennaunt, then if he by his gardeyne, tutor, or friende make sute for the saide tenement, he shall be thereunto admitted tennant.
Notwithstandinge the saide former order, it is ordered, that if anye of the saide tenaunts be maried, and his wife lyvinge after his deathe, that then she shall have and enjoye the fermeholde her husband died possessed of dureing her wydoweheed, without paieinge anye fyne, paieing and doeinge the rents, reparations, and customes due for that fermeholde; and if she marie, then her husbande to paie two yeres fyne, and he and she to have and enjoye the said fermeholde dureinge the wife's liffe, she, and also her husband yerelie paieinge and doeinge the rents, reparations, and customes due for that fermeholde; and that then after her deathe, the sonne of her former husbande, that was tenaunt of the said fermeholde; and for defalt of suche sonne, suche other persons as are before named, according to the true meaninge of the limitation before mention'd in the third article, shall be admitted tenant for his liffe, if he sue for the same accordinge to theise orders.
And further it is ordered, that no forfeiture of anie of the saide tennaunts so to be letten for terme of liffe as is abovesaide, shall be taken but onelie for treason, rebellion, wilful murder, or fellonie committed by suche tennaunts, whereof he shal be lawfullie attainted or outlawed by the lawes of this realme; and the same so forfeited to be letten in forme aforesaide.
And it is also ordered and declared, that these articles abovesaide, are ment and to be intended onelie for suche tenaunts and tenements as be accompted tenaunts at will, and tenements occupied or clamed, to be holden or occupied by the custome of tenant right, and not to suche tenements as heretofore are or have bene occupied and clamed by lease for terme of yeres, or for terme of liffe or liffes, within the space of thirtie yeres paste.
And it is further agreed and ordered, that all theife presente articles and orders, together with the draught of the saide indenture, shal be entred and remayne as of recorde, as well in the booke of orders of the privie councell, as also the booke of orders and decrees of the said lord president and councell of the northe parts, and alsoe in the chauncerie court of Duresme, to th' intent the same may remayne and be manifest to suche of the tenaunts as shall have cause or nede to sue for the same.
And it is further ordered and agreed, that for the more full ratifieinge and confirmeing of theife articles and orders, to abide and contynue for ever, and that the saide Deane and Chapiter hathe assented to the same: In testimonie and approbation thereof, the saide Deane and Chapiter, shall unto this order, articles, and draught of the saide indenture sett theire common seale. Yeoven at Yorke, the daie and yere above-written.
THIS INDENTURE
made the — day of —, in the — yere of the reigne of our soveraigne Ladye Elizabethe, by the grace of God, queene of England, France, and Irelande, defender of the faithe, &c. Betwene William Whittingham, deane, and the Chapiter of Duresme, of the cathedrall church of Christ, and blessed Marie the virgin, of th' one partie, and A. B. of —, &c. in the countie of Duresme, husbandman, of th' other partie. Witnessethe that the said Deane and Chapiter, for divers good considerations them moveing, by theire full assent and consent, have demised, graunted, and to serme letten; and by theise presentes, for them and theire successors, doe demise, graunt, and to ferme lett unto the said A. B. and his assignes, all that theire tenement and fermeholde, with all the howses and groundes, being reputed and taken for part or parcell of the saide tenement or fermeholde, and groundes with chapiter tenurs, as it is, or latelie was in the tenure of W. K. in the saide countie of Duresme, (the woodes, mynes, and quarries in and upon the same, with convenient waies for the useinge and enjoyeinge of the same, except and reserved.) To have and to holde the saide tenement, fermeholde, and grounds, withall and singuler theire appurtenances. (except before excepted) to the said A. B. his executors and assignes, from the makinge and date of these presentes, unto th' ende and terme of twentie and one yeres then next followinge, fullie to be complete and ended in as large and ample maner, as the said W K. or anye other fermor tenaunt or occupier of the premisses heretofore hathe holden or occupied, &c. the same, (yf he, the saide A. B. doe soe longe live) yeldinge and paieinge therefore yerelie, during the saide terme, to the said Deane and Chapiter, and their successors, or to theire receivor for the tyme beinge, in the exchequere over th' east gate, within the precinct of the saide cathedrall churche of Duresme, the some of —, of lawfull Englishe moneye, at two termes in the yere, that is to say, at the feasts of St Martyne in winter, and Penticost, by even portions, or at suche usuall feasts or daies as the same hathe bene used and accustomed to be paied, or within one monethe next after either of the saide feasts and daies. And the said A. B. for himself, his executors, and assignes, dothe covenaunt and graunt to and with the saide Deane and Chapter, and theire successors, to paie, doe, and performe all maner of lawfull and reasonable customes, services, and duties yerelie, hereafter to be due for the saide tenement, to the saide Deane and Chapiter, and theire successors, as other the tenaunts, fermeors, and occupiers, and theire assignes, have heretofore done, or of right ought to have done. And the saide A. B. for him, his executors, and assignes, covenantethe and grauntethe by theise presentes, to and with the saide Deane and Chapiter, and theire successors, that he the saide A. B. his executors, and assignes, all the saide tenement and premisses, by these presentes demised and letten, in all maner of reparations, necessarie (great tymber onelie excepted) at all tyme and tymes, dureinge the saide terme, shall repaire, upholde, and maynteine, and at th' end of the saide terme shall have the same so sufficientlie repaired at the sight of some indifferent persons, whereof two to be chosen by the Deane and Chapiter, the other two by the tennaunt: And that he the saide A. B. and his assignes shall, at all and everie tyme and tymes when occasion of service shall be, dureinge the saide terme be readye and well furnished with horse and furniture, either by himself or some other able person, to serve the queene's majestie, her heires and successors, upon the borders or elswhere, after the rate of his saide tenement, as other like tenaunts of the saide Deane and Chapter, within the saide bushopricke of Duresme, have heretofore used to doe, and bene furnished withall. And also that the saide A. B. &c. his assignes, shall not dureinge the saide terme, alien, fell, or sett over, his interest or yeres, or anye part thereof in the premisses, or anye part thereof to anye person or persons, without consent and agreement of the saide Deane and Chapter, or theire successors, first therein obteyned, (except to his eldest sonne.) And if it fortune the saide yerelie rent of —, or anye part or parcell thereof, by the space of fortie daies after either of the saide feastes, to be behinde and unpaid to the saide Deane and Chapiter, and theire successors, that then the saide A. B. his executors, and assignes, shall forfaite to the saide Deane and Chapiter, and their successors, (nomine penae) over and besides his saide rent, suche some of moneye as the saide rent dothe or shall amount unto. And the saide Deane and Chapiter, for them and theire successors, doe graunt by theise presentes, to and with the saide A. B. that the same A. B. his executors, administrators, and suche his assignees as before be rehearesed, shall and may, dureinge all the saide terme, have suche sufficient hedgeboot, fierboot, plougheboote, and wayneboote, and cartboote, in and upon the premisses, as other tenaunts, fermeors, and occupiers of the same, have heretofore had, taken, and used in, upon, and about the saide tenement, and other the premisses before demised, and not elsewhere.— In witness whereof, &c.
15th Elizabeth, — 1st December, 1572.
Henry Hastings, earl of Huntington, lord president of the north, and so continued until his death in 1595.
THE COUNCEL.
KNIGHTS.
Sir Thomas Gargrave
Sir William Fairfax
Sir Thomas Fairfax
Sir Henry Gates
Sir George Bowes
Sir Christopher Hildyard.
ESQUIRES.
Francis Wortley
John Rookby
Humphrey Purefoy
Ralph Huddlestone
William Cardinal
Laurence Meers
Bryan Bridges
Laurence Bramston
Edward Stanhope
George Gibson, LL. D.
John Rookeby, LLD.
SECRETARYS.
Charles Hales,
Esq
Thomas Ennys
John Bennet, LL. D.
Henry Cheeke
John Fearns.
Dean Whittingham died at Durham, on the 10th of June, 1579, and was interred in the cathedral church: The inscription
In obitum doctissimi viri Gulielmi Whittingham, decani olim Dunelmensis, Mariti Catherinae sororis Johannis Calvin theologi, qui obiit anno 1579.
Quae Whittinghami cernis monumenta sepulti,
Et vitae & mortis sunt monumenta piae.
Anglia testis erit, testis quoque Gallia vitae;
Exulis haec vidit, Praesulis illa decus.
Nobilitas sua nota domus, notissima doctis,
Cognita pauperibus mensque manusque suit.
Dum vixit summos populi persensit honores,
Mortuus ast populi vivit in ore sui.
Forsitan et posthaec optabit serior aetas,
O vivant cineres, docte, decane, tui.
Crux veritatis comes—
Willis, vol. i. p. 253.
given in the notes was placed upon his monument, which, soon after its erection, met with the same fate as he had treated others.
THOMAS WILSON, LL. D.
was appointed dean on the 5th day of February next following Whittingham's death, and was installed the 28th, by Ad. Holyday his proxy. He was born in Lincolnshire, and elected a scholar in King's College, Cambridge, in the year 1541: Was tutor to Henry and Charles Brandon, dukes of Suffolk, and domestic chaplain to Charles, and Katharine, his duchess, and afterwards to queen Catherine Parr
Strype's Ann. vol. ii. p. 233.
. He was a voluntary exile in the time of queen Mary, and travelling to Rome in 1558, was put into the Inquisition there, on a charge of heresy, said to be contained in his writings on logic and rhetoric: He suffered the torture, and would have been put to death on refusing to deny his faith, had not a fire happened, which induced the populace to force open the prison, that those consined might not perish; by which accident he escaped
See a full account of this transaction, Strype's Ann. vol. ii. p. 511, 512.
. Queen Elizabeth made him master of the hospital of St Catherine, near the Tower, and master of requests; after which he became secretary of state and privy-counsellor. He was on many occasions sent abroad as ambassador, and his residence as dean was much dispensed with
Register, p. 21, 23.
. After Whittingham's death, we hear no more of that vile character,
the Augean stable,
given to the cathedral church of Durham, in bishop Barnes' writings. The dean died on the 16th of June, 1581, and was buried at St Catherine's. He wrote a much approved book against usury
Strype's Ann. vol. ii. p. 234.—Willis, vol. i. p. 254.—
Lloyd's Statesman, p. 209.
.
The deanry continued vacant two years, and on the 31st of August, 1583,
TOBIAS MATTHEW,
rector of Bishop-Weremouth, in this county
Inducted the 28th of May, 1580. Vide Annals of Bishops, vol. i. p. 1112.
, was appointed dean, then thirty-seven years of age. Strype speaks of him thus
Ann. vol. ii. p. 347.
:—
A great preacher, and a pious, holy man: This venerable prelate first entered into orders by the motion and counsel of Dr Calfhill, a learned dignitary of the church in those times, and his cousin; though his father and mother, persons of good quality, who seemed to be disaffected to religion, were not inclinable thereto, as I have seen in a letter of the said Calfhill, soon after written to Sir William Cecil,
That he was bound by all honest means to prefer his cousin, as well in respect of his rare abilities, as also for that he had followed his advice, in entering into the ministry, against the good will of father and mother, and other his able friends.
Matthew was soon sent for to court by the earl of Leicester, having been recommended to him by his said kinsman; as also the said secretary Cecil, who by soliciting the queen, obtained for him the deanry of Durham, though she stuck a good while,
because of his youth and his marriage.
— When he departed from court to Durham, Cecil, (now lord Burleigh) according to his grave and godly way, gave him much good counsel for his wise and good behaviour of himself, and discharging of his duty in that place; and die next year sent him a letter of the same import, by Mr. Tonstal going down thither.
Matthew anxiously solicited the lord-treasurer to dispatch him quickly to Durham, after he was appointed dean
3. Stryp. Ann. p. 178.
, as in case of his non-residence, twenty-one days before Michaelmas, the whole crop of hay and corn, and other fruits, belonging to the tithe and glebe, appropriated to his deanry, would go to the prebendaries who did reside
See Statutes, chap. xvi. p. 124.
. It seems the great men then in power had an eye to selfish gains, from ecclesiastical preferments, for the lord treasurer sought to obtain a lease of Pittington, from Dean Matthew, on which there were at that time two unexpired leases for long terms, which obliged the dean to draw an unfavourable picture of his possessions
Ibid. App. No. lxi.
. An attempt was made by Mr Carey, son to the lord Hunsdon, to disseize the church of Billingham and Holme, part of the dean's corps, upon pretence of concealed lands, given to superstitious uses; and a fuit was also projected by one Brackenbury, touching those places.—Matthew was made Bishop of Durham
See vol. i. p. 471.
in 1594; and after a vacancy of two years,
WILLIAM JAMES
was appointed dean, on the 5th of June, 1596, and was installed by Clement Colmore, his proxy: He was born at Sandbach, in Cheshire; son of Mr John James, of Ore
Osborn,—
Gray's Notes, MSS.
, in Staffordshire, by Ellen his wife, of the family of Bolt, of Sandbach
See pedigree in vol. i. p. 479.
: He was admitted student in Christ-Church, Oxford, in 1559, and took the degree in arts: Afterwards entering into holy orders, was admitted to the reading of the sentences in 1571, being then divinity reader in Magdalen College. The next year, was elected master of University College; and on the 27th of August, 1577, became archdeacon of Coventry: In 1584, was made dean of Christ-Church, Oxford; and in 1606, succeeded bishop Matthew in the See of Durham
Willis, vol. i. p. 254.—Gray's Notes, MSS.—Ath. Ox. vol. i. p. 356, &c. He was three times vicechancellor.
. After him
ADAM NEWTON,
a Scotchman and a layman, obtained the deanry, and was installed the 27th of September, in the same year, by his proxy, Mr Ewbanke: He was tutor to prince Henry, eldest son of king James I. and wrote his life
MSS. now in the British Museum.—Gent. Mag. 1760, p. 78, 81.—Birch's negociation between England and France, 527, 333.340.—Heylin's Examen. Historie. 178.
. Newton held the deanry till the year 1620, when a resignation was made in consideration of a large sum of money
Ath. Oxon. vol. i. p. 356. Camden's Annal. Ja. I.
: About that time he was created knight and baronet: Was a man of learning, and wrote several things of note
Sir Edward Newton's Compl. Book, Lat. collected from Classics and Philolog. Bern's Catalog. MSS. part ii. p. 102. He translated the first four books of Father Paul's Hist. of the Council of Trent. Bishop Bedel translated the other four. Gray's Notes, MSS.—Sir H. Puckering,
alias
Newton, was his son, who gave his lib. to Trinity Col. Cam. Ibid.
. He died on the 13th of September, 1626, and was interred at Charleton, near Greenwich, in Kent
Willis says,
Having, after taking upon him his secular honours, renounced his ecclesiastical preferments.
Vol. i. p. 254.—
Bayle's Dict. vol. iv. p. 360.
Bayle, in l. c. says he died dean of Sarum.
.—By the means before noted, a vacancy took place for the admission of
RICHARD HUNT, D. D.
who was presented on the 3d of May, admitted the 8th, and installed the 29th of the same month, 1620
Reg. Neile, p. 23.
. He had been rector of Fobsham; also vicar of Terrington, on the presentation of king James I. 1603, and rector of the same place, on the presentation of Sir John Stanhope, knight, 1609
Parkin's Hist. Norf. vol. iv. p. 378, 704.
: Was made a prebendary in the second stall of Canterbury cathedral, in the year 1613 or 1614
Somner.
An answer for the Ld Walden, (to the vice-deane and chap. of Duresme) touching the leade of the ruinated cell in the ileande by Barwick.
While some of the chapter of Duresme do complaine of the Lord Walden, for taking off of the leade of the cell, in the ileande a p'ish church, yet there remaininge for prayers, and the cell chapell never used, but for garners and a store-house, since the suppression of the abbyes in K. H. 8 tyme. It may be demanded of them wt more offence is given, or wt other satisfaction more should be made by the nowe Ld Walden, then by those who tooke of the leade, tooke down the tymber, and utterlie demolished ye walls of the church of St Goodrick, and of a goodlie manor house, Mr Blakiston the nowe vice-deane is prebendarie thereof.
Similit'. fact, p' prebendaries.
Pittington chappell manor house pulled downe by Mr Tonstall, now p'bendarie in the church, and sold it to Mr Henry Anderson; both theise within 2 myles of Duresme.
Dr. Barnes, nowe p'bendarie, pulled of and sould at Newcastle, all the leades of the prebend. manor house of Muggleswick, 10 myles from Duresme.
Dr Colmore spoiled 2 p'sonages, St Oswalds' in Elvet, and St Maries in the S. Bailey.
Mr Clyff, Mr Ewbank's predecessor, unleaded the church and mannor house of Buly-grange, and solde away the leade, iron, stone, and tymber thereof, and never made any penny satisfaction to the church, or to him the now prebendary.
The woods and tymber of the church being by statute the principall treasure of the church, to be p'served, and hath lately by his maj. princely care expressed by his l'rs under his hand and privie seale, commanded with great care the p'servation thereof, for the general benefit of the common wealth, and the p'ticular good of the church tennaunts, by want whereof their tenements and houses fall into utter ruyne: It would theirfore be inquired, what prodigall wastes have been made, and not to the necessarie repara'ions of the tennants' houses or fabrick of the church. As namely out of these woods: Beer-p'ke, Muggleswick-p'ke, Haymeing wood, Raynton-wood or p'ke, Shinckliffe-wood, Aickliffe-wood, Baxter-wood, Bewly-wood, utterlie consumed.—Hough-hall-wood consumed by Dr Colmore.—Fenckla-wood consumed by Mr Blakiston.— The Hall Garth-wood consumed by Mr Rand's predecessor and himself.—Kella-wood wasted.—Muggleswick, the goodliest wood in the north of England, wasted by the prebendarys.
Dr. Colmore is the b'ps spiritual chauncellor or commissarie: He is also this year the treasurer to the D. and Cha. and dealeth in all their monie matters; and therefore hath a desire to have the fingering of the leade in the cell of the ileand, &c. &c. [The rest sca'dalous reflections on Dr Colmore and his eldest son.]
He holdeth the p'sonage house of Branspeth, worth above 200l. p' an. whereof my lord of Somerset is patrone; at whose devotion he standeth, having neither good title to it, nor well deserving of the house of Brancepath, &c.—From an original paper in the hands of T. Gyll,
Esq
Randal's MSS.
; and was chaplain to king James. In 1633, the dean and chapter petitioned the king, (then at Durham) for a confirmation of their charters and endowments, as in the notes
To the KING'S most Excellent MAJESTIE. The humble PETITION of the DEAN and CHAPTER of DURHAM.
Sheweth,
THAT whereas your majesties royall progenitors, founders and patrons of this church, have in former tymes beene gratiously pleased at the humble petition of the poore members thereof, to confirme unto them, by the sacred autoritie of their letters pattenta, the ancient charters and pious endowments belonging unto the some, for the honour of God, and the better performance of his service in this place;
MAY it therefore please your most sacred majestie, to grant unto your humble petitioners, the like royall confirmation of the same charters and donations under your majesties great seale, for the better strength and preservation of the estate and inheritance of this church, wherein your majesties most loyall and devoted petitioners shall daily pray (as they are most bound) for your majesties longe, happy, and peaceable reigne, &c.
At the CORT at DURISME, the 2d of June, 1633.
HIS majestie for the honor of God, and the better performance of his service in this place, is gratiously pleased to graunt to the petitioners, his royall confirmation of their charters and donations as heere is desired: And his attorney-generall is required to prepare for his royal signature, a booke for letters pattents to that effect.
JOHN COKE.
. The dean died on the 1st of November, 1638, and was buried in the cathedral church of Durham, under the seat set apart for the prebendaries' wives: His epitaph was inscribed on a tablet of wood, fixed to the adjoining pillar, which not being esteemed ornamental, was taken down and thrown into the vestry-room. Willis gives the inscription as in the notes
RICHARDI HUNT, decani ecclesie cathis D. beatam animam e coelo reducem ad tubam, olim Arch-Angeli; hic expectat socium corpus RICHARDI HUNT, decani hujus eccl. per 20 annus. Qui placide
Obdormivit in D'no Jesu, redemtore, cui animam Com'endavit, & ad cujus Nutum corpus exuit in Festo omnium animanim, A. D. 1658.
On a wooden tablet, in golden characters:
Charitas Obedientia Patientia Humilitas In reverendum virum Richardum Hunt, S. S. theologiae professorem. Hujus ecclesiae olim per 20 annos Decanum, qui in Domino placide Obdormivit in festo omnium: Animarum, 1638.
Hic jacet orborumque pater, viduaequae maritas
Faelix qui proprio fovit utrosque sinu.
Spes columenque inopum; pes claudis lumina caecis,
Hospitium exulibus; praesidium miseris.
Cur tabulas rogitas, legat bona nulla supremis,
Quod semper solitus non moriturus agit?
In promptu ratio est; donaverat omnia vivens,
Scilicet et tandem non habet unde daret.
Ad caelum ad Christum praemiserat omnia prudens,
Ut fieret tuta & mollis ad astra via.
Caelorum portus reserat, claudisque gehonnae,
Omnia qui Domino, datque dicatque Deo.
Advena dives inops, omnes uno ore precemur,
Molliter ossa cubent, sit tibi terra levis
In this dean's time the bells in the great tower of the cathedral church were cast and hung; and the present elegant clock made.
From the parish register of Bow church.
Tho. Bartlett (a bell-founder) was buried 3 Feb. 1632-3. This man did cast the abbey bells ye summer before he dyed 1632.
E computo thesauraij eccl'ae cathed. Dun.
 
£.
s.
d.
For casting and hanging the bells
128
12
7
For the new clock and dyall
18
9
6
Randall's MSS.
One Ch. Hodson re-cast the bells in 1693, and placed the present eight melodious bells in the great tower.—He was a Londoner, and much noted in his business; in the year 1680, having been employed to re-cast the great bell called
Tom.
. Christ-Church, in Oxford.
In the chapter accounts of
1632
and
1633,
are the following remarkable particulars.
12 Mar. 1633. Solut. Gul. Bellasis mil. p' emendatione viae publicae in monasti. egidij. juxta Dunelm. 5
l.
Wm Osten, medicus, x
l.
Nov. 5. Given to the quire by appointment of the chap. for singing on the steeple ye king's day, 1
l.
Paid Ch. Bailes the painter, for gilding the 8 stands and colouring, which bore up the canopy over the king's head the last year, 1
l.
A bill for two curtains at b'p Hatfield's tomb and matts, 2
l.
13
s.
4
d.
Curtain rods, 12
s.
4
d.
Acta in domo capitulari.
9th July, 1621. That a survey be taken of the lands and possessions of the church, with an exact terrier of them all to be kept upon record.
Paid for two pictures of the king and queen, for the library, 4
l.
Nov.
1633.
Ut apud acta in domo capitulari.
Memorandum. That the sums of money here following, to be paid by 120
l.
per ann. returned to Mr James, treasurer, last year.
 
£.
s.
d.
For the rich cope given the king
116
8
1
For the king's entertainment, &c.
232
18
1
Randall's MSS.
.
.
WALTER BALCANQUALL
was appointed dean, and installed on the 14th of May, 1639
Rymer, vol. xx. p. 328.
. He was by birth a Scotchman; educated at Pembroke Hall, and there took the degree of bachelor in divinity: Was appointed the king's chaplain; and on the 16th of December, 1617, made master of the Savoy, which he resigned the succeeding year, in favour of the able, but desultory Marc Antonio di Dominis, archbishop of Spalato, a refugee, in reward for his conversion to Protestantism: That year he was sent to the synod of Dort, to represent the church of Scotland. In February, 1621, Marc Antonio left England, and recanted, whereupon Mr Balcanquall was restored to the mastership of the Savoy: In 1624, having obtained naturalization
Rushworth, vol. i. p. 150.
, and taken the degree of doctor in divinity, he was installed dean of Rochester on the 12th of March. A short time after his becoming dean of Durham, those commotions arose in the state, which forced him from his mastership and deanry, when he was plundered, sequestered, and obliged to fly for personal safety. The Scotch troops vented their spleen on the cathedral church; and defaced all the monuments in the nave: The dean fled to the king at Oxford, and afterwards shifted from place to place, to escape the fury of the rebels: Being the mark of much inveteracy, as they attributed to him the writing of the king's declaration, in 1639. His epitaph expresses, that he escaped from the siege of York, and in the extremity of a bad season, through inexpressible danger, took refuge at Chirk Castle, in Denbighshire; but sinking under the fatigue of the journey, and severity of the weather, died there on Christmas-day, 1645, and was interred in the parish church of Chirk; where, some years afterwards, a small mural monument was erected to his memory, by Sir Thomas Middleton, of Chirk Castle, at whose request, Dr Pearson, then bishop of Chester, composed the epitaph
Hic situs est vir eximius Gualterus Balcanquallus, S. S. theol. professor, qui ex scotia oriundus, ob singularem eruditionem aulae Pembrochianae in acad. Cantabr. socius sactus est, et inter theologos Brytannos synodo Doidracensi intersuit, mox regiae majestati a sacris, Xenodochij subaudiensis Londini praepositus & decanus primo Rosensis, deni Dunelmensis, omnia haec officia sive dignitates magnis virtutibus ornavit; tum vero in Scotianae rebellionis areanis motibus observandis atque detegendis solertissime versatus est, in rebellione Anglicana regi maxime sidus; obsidione Eboraci liberatus, et in has oras se contulit, ubi perhumaniter exceptus, sed ab hostibus cupidissime quaesitus et exturbatus hiemali tempestate mire saeviente tutelam castelli in proximo confugit, & morbo ex infesti itineris taedio corruptus ipso die nativitatis Christi ad Dominum migravit, an. aerae Christianae, 1645.
Haec in memoriam defuncti scripsit Johannes Cestriensis, rogatu viri nobilissimi Thomae Middleton, baronetti, qui ex pio animi proposito sua cura atque sumptu hoc monumentum posuit. Willis, vol. i. p. 255.
Ath. Oxon. vol. i.
See Hale's papers concerning the synod of Dort, several of his epistles.—Walker's account of suffering clergy, vol. ii. p. 19.—Rushworth's Col. vol. ii. 1270.—His petition concerning the king's declaration.—
Pennant's Tour in Wales, vol. i. p. 269.
His daughter married Sir Thomas Thynne, and had by him Thomas Thynne, of Longleat, who was murdered by Count Coningsmark, in Pall Mall, February 12, 1681.
.
Disputes subsisted between the chapter and their tenants, when the dean first came to this church, which were laid before the council, and an order made thereon, dated the 11th March, 1639, which shews, that innovations were renewed, and fresh attempts had been made against the leaseholders, which government would not encourage
11th March, 1639.
Walter Belcanqual, dean of Durham, complained of George Grey and Anthony Smith, two of the tenants of the Dean and Chapter of Durham, for misdemeanors committed by them, in getting diverse of the tenants of the said Dean and Chapter to set their hands and seals to diverse papers and petitions of complaint, against the said Dean and Chapter their landlord, and to contribute money for prosecution of their complaints; and as the said Dean did alleage, they did not make known to the Dean and Chapter their grievances, before they came up to complain.
The said Grey and Smith appearing before the lords of the council, did acknowledge, that what was alleaged against them was true as to the subscribing the petition; but declared they had cause to complain against the Dean and Chapter, for that contrary to a decree entred in the court of York and elsewhere, in the time of queen Elizabeth, which did ascertain their right in the renewing their leases, with savyor to them in respect of their tenant right; and that a small fine (in comparison of what the Dean and Chapter now required of them) had wont to be paid, of which, they said, they often complained as a grievance, but never obtained hopes of relief from them.
The council-board, after hearing the business, declared themselves dissatisfied with the tenants' proceedings, and the archbishop of Canterbury moved, that the Dean and Chapter might do well to proceed against them in the Star Chamber, and never to renew their leases to the tenants, or the children of them who did complain; and that it were fit they should be committed to prison till they did produce the schedule of grievances subscribed by the tenants, to discover their names; and that they should pay so much money as they received from those tenants (who impowered them to prosecute this their complaint) to one of the clerks of the council, and that nothing should be deducted out of the same, to allow the said Grey and Smith any thing towards the defraying of their charges or monies laid out about the prosecution of this business; for, said the archbishop, he was confident it was a practice against the church, and did believe there was some further design in the business.
Hereupon the council-board ordered, that Grey and Smith be committed to the gatehouse, and there to lie in prison, until they produce a schedule of the names of the subscribers, and that they did pay the money they had confessed to have received, (which was about the sum of eighty pounds) unto the hands of Sir William Beecher, one of the clerks of the council; which they paid accordingly, but continued in prison many weeks, because they would not deliver up the list of the tenants names that subscribed the petition; but a parliament meeting April 13 next following, they were set at liberty by the council-board, without delivering up the list of the tenants' names, and the paper of subscription containing their grievances.
.
CHRISTOPHER POTTER, D. D.
was nominated in January 1645
Rymer's Foed. vol. xx. p. 328.
, to this deanry, but died in March following, and before he was installed: He was born in the barony of Kendal, in Westmoreland; was educated in Queen's College, Oxford, and became a fellow thereof. In 1626, he succeeded Dr Barnard Potter, his uncle, in the provostship of his college, and the next year proceeded in divinity. When Dr Laud became a favourite at court, he was induced to be his follower, and thereupon esteemed an Arminian: In the latter end of the year 1635, then being chaplain in ordinary to the king, he was made dean of Worcester; and in 1640, executed the office of vice-chancellor of Oxford, not without much trouble from the puritanical party: In the rebellion, he suffered much in the royal cause: Was a person greatly esteemed by all who knew him, for learning and piety: Was exemplary in his manners and discourse; of a courteous carriage, a sweet and obliging temper, and a comely presence
Ath. Oxon. vol. ii. p. 46.—Willis's Cath. vol. i. p. 255, 659.—
Grey's Notes, MSS. &c.
.
This period of time must not be passed over without observing, that archbishop Laud was very urgent for the establishment of decent regulations in the church service, and particularly for placing the communion table at the east end of the church, and enclosing it with a rail, to secure it from profanation and common business: But in 1641, the commons interposing their authority in those matters, the table was ordered to be removed, the rails taken away, the chancel levelled, ornaments to be disused, as basons, tapers, candlesticks, &c. and that bowing at the hallowed name, towards the east, should be forborn. In short, the hour was come, when religious veneration was extinguished, and slovenliness, disorder, and irreverence, similar to the rudeness of a Jewish synagogue, were tolerated in the churches
The charges brought against Cofins (which in the annals of that bishop, p. 1178, were referred to this period of the work) were,
That he set up a marble altar with cherubims, in the cathedral of Durham; that this with the appurtenances, cost two thousand pounds; that this ornamental furniture, which he calls appurtenances, was a cope, the representation of the Trinity, and God the Father in the figure of an old man. There was likewise said to be a crucifix, with a red beard and blue cap. The dean was likewise accused for lighting two hundred wax candles about the altar on Candlemas-day: For forbidding the singing any psalms before or after sermons: For making an anthem to be sung of the three kings of Cologn, Gaspar, Balthazar, and Melchior; and for procuring a consecrated knife, only to cut the bread at the communion."—The answer Cofins gave in upon both, was to this effect, "That the communion table in the church of Durham, was not set up by Cofins, but by the Dean and Chapter, many years before he was prebendary of that church; and that Smart, the accuser, was one of that chapter; that by the public accounts standing upon the register, the charge did not amount to above a tenth part of what was pretended. That the copes used in that church, were furnished long before Cofins' time; and that Smart was prebendary when they were bought, and allowed his share of the charge. That Cofins never approved the picture of the Trinity, or the image of God the Father in any figure; and that to his knowledge, there was no such representation in the church of Durham. That the crucifix, with a blue cap and a golden beard, was nothing but the top of bishop Hatfield's tomb, which had stood in the church above two hundred and fifty years; and that there was no such figure upon any of the copes, as is reported in Fuller's History. That by the statutes of the church, to which Smart was sworn no less than Cofins, the treasurer was to provide a sufficient number of wax lights for the service of the quire during the winter season; that there was never above two fair candles set upon the communion table; that there was no more candles used upon Candlemas-night than in the Christmas holidays; and that the number of them was lessened or increased in proportion to the congregation. That he never forbad singing the metre psalms in the church, but used to sing them himself, with the people at morning prayer. That he was so far from directing the singing an anthem to the three kings of Cologn, that at his first coming to Durham cathedral, he ordered this superstitious hymn to be cut out of the old song books belonging to the choristers' school: That no such anthem had been sung in the choir during his being there, nor, as far as his enquiry could reach, for threescore years before and upwards. That the knife used for cutting the bread at the communion, was never consecrated, &c. &c.
—
Coll. Eccl. His. lib. ix. p
98, &c.
The answer of the dean and prebendaries of Durham, setting forth the reasons why they could not possibly produce their booke of charter actes, as ordered by the Right Honourable the Lords of the Upper House of Parliament. Sans date, but probably about
17 April, 1646.
First, they supposing, that the said booke might bee in one of the trunkes which were sent to Hull, at the time of the distraction upon the entringe of the Scottish armie, did send an expresse messenger to Hull, with a letter to Sir Thomas Glemham, govenor of the towne intreating him to open the said trunkes before good witnesses, and to search for the said chapter booke; as appeareth by their letter unto the said govenor.
2. That the said govenor did find but one trunck of the churches there, in which the book of their chapter actes was not to be found, as appeareth by the letter and testimony under the hands and seals of those who opened and searched the said truncke, by the govenor's appointment.
3. That the dean and prebendaries immediately after, sent another express messenger to Durham, with letters to their chapter clerke, requiring him at his perill to find out the said book, (whose charge properly it is) or else to come up himself in person, and give satisfaction to their lordships, why it could not be produced; as appeareth by their letters to the said chapter clarke.
4. That their chapter clarke is not come up, but hath sent his servant, who hath deposed before their lordships some things, wherein he may be deceived; because it is certain that he is mistaken in deposing, that Dr Duncon was present at the making up of that trunk at Dr Clarke's house, in which the said booke was supposed to be.
5. And therefore they do suppose, that that trunckeis lost, either by the negligence of the said chapter clarke, (hee being in the ship where it was, and it being his proper charge to looke after it) or by the avarice of marrinets, who finding it weightie, (as being full of books) might suppose it was filled either with money or plate; or, if it were left behind in the registry, (wher usually it remained) it might be torn and destroyed by the Scottish soldiers, who broke open both their treasurie and registrie, defacinge and destroying therein many evidences; and, in all probabilitie, would have done so with all the rest, if they had not been restrained and severely punished by their officers, especiallie by serieant major general Bailie.
6. All thes things are ready to be deposed by the dean or prebendaries, which they well hope their lordships will easily believe for these two reasons:
7. First, that the losse of the truncke is most prejudiciall and disadvantagious to them as having in it many of their leiger books, counterpanes of seale, and other evidences and chartularies, which must bee of invaluable losse to the church of Durham; and they are confident, that the booke of acts would have cleared them very much concerning their proceedings with Mr Smart.
8. Secondly, to shew that they have used their utmost diligence, they shall produce unto your lordships all the warrants, which possiblie could be found in their registrie, for entering their actes into the said book. Which warrants contain the summe of all things that have been entered into that booke for almost twentie yeares; which is before the time that any difference hath been concerning Mr Smart.
.—On the 6th of March, 1645,
WILLIAM FULLER, D. D.
was appointed dean of Durham; but it is doubtful was never installed: He was born at Hadleigh, in Suffolk, the son of Andrew Fuller; received his education in Cambridge, and was much noted for his learning, piety, and prudence: Was chaplain in ordinary to king James I. and king Charles I. and esteemed an excellent preacher; having preached several times before the king at Oxford. In 1636, he was made dean of Ely, and had the vicarial church of St Giles, near Cripplegate, London.—
In the beginning of the rebellion, 1642, he was sequestered from his church preferment, imprisoned, and spoiled of all, for his loyalty to his prince, by the impetuous and restless Presbyterians
Ath. Oxon. vol. ii. p. 729.
.
After Oxford was surrendered, the dean retired to London, where he lived in obscurity and poverty, in an advanced age, and full of sorrows, till death released him from misery and fears, though not from persecution; at the age of seventy-nine, he departed this life, on Holy Thursday, the 12th of May, 1659; but the vengeance of those days of confusion followed him to the tomb, for his remains were denied interment in his own church of St Giles, so that his body was stolen to the grave, to the church of St Vedast, in Fosterlane, where it rests in the south aile. His daughter Jane, (who married Dr Brian Walton, bishop of Chester) on the restoration of peace and government to this country, caused a monument to be erected to his memory
Ath. Oxon. vol. i. and ii. Eccl. Hist. 752.—Walker's Hist. part ii. p. 19.—Newcourts Repert. vol. i. p. 357.—Peck's Desiderata Curiosa, lib. xiv. p. 32.—
Willis's Cath. vol. i. p 256
William Fuller, D. D. vicar of St Giles's, Cripplegate, first dean of Ely, afterwards dean of Durham, chaplain to king James, and afterwards to king Charles I. famous for learning, prudence, and piety, spoiled of all for his loyalty to his prince, lived obscurely, and when denied rest in his own church, he found it here. Born at Hadley, in Suffolk, died on Holy Thursday, May 12, 1659. Put up by his daughter Jane, wife of Brian Walton, bishop of Chester.
.
In the Annals of the Bishops are fully related, the circumstances which befel this church during the usurpation; and to which, for avoiding prolixity and repetition, we must refer the reader.
On the commission of survey, issued, relative to the possessions of the church, the commissioners returned the certificate into the register office of the court of chancery at Durham, dated the 1st of October, 1649, stating the nature and tenure of the dean and chapter's lands
The certificate of the commissioners appointed to survey the manors, lands, and tenements of the late Dean and Chapter of Durham, by vertue of a commission, grounded upon an act of the commissioners of England, assembled in Parliament, for abolishing of Dean and Chapters; returned into the register office of the court of chancery, at Durham,
1st October, 1649.
We, the commissioners of survey, appointed and authorised for the survey of the several manors, lands, tenements, and hereditaments, of the late Dean and Chapter of the cathedral church of Christ and blessed Mary the Virgin of Durham, by vertue of a commission to us granted, grounded upon an act of the commissioners of England, assembled in Parliament, for abolishing of deans, and deans and chapters, under the hands and seals of five or more of the trustees in the said act nominated and appointed; having deliberately perused several very ancient records, leger books, halmot court books, court rolls and accounts, belonging to the said Dean and Chapter, and yet remaining at Durham, and having also heard the deposition of many witnesses produced, touching the customary estates in reversion, claimed by the present tenants of the said late Dean and Chapter, thereby, and by all other lawful ways and means to inform ourselves of the truth of the said claim, do in all humbleness certify as follows.
Imprimis, We do find, that the several manors, townships, and villages of Belsis, Billingham, Wolviston, Newton Bewly, Bruntoft, Coopon Bewly, &c. were part of the possessions of the prior and convent of Durham abovesaid, and very anciently belonging to the same.—And we do hereby find, that it manifestly appears from the year of our Lord 1500, that there were constantly (till the dissolution of the said prior and convent, which was about the 28th year of king Henry the 8th) several Halmott courts holden for the said prior at several times in the year, of and for the all or most of the said manors and premisses, at which courts, the several tenants of and within the said manors, townships, and villages, came and entered their purchases, took admissions as heirs or widows respectively, as the case required, and the entries thereof, were and are made
cepit de Domino,
&c. such and such lands,
faciendo Domino et vicinisque incumbent. &c. reddendo et faciendo in omnibus prout, &c.
Such an one the last tenant,
reddidit et facit
and the like, as in copyholds and customary estates is usual, and as by exceeding many antient and constant precedents and entries, doth and may appear.
That afterwards, after the said prior and convent was so dissolved, and their possessions, reversions, privileges, and inheritances, vested and settled by act of parliament, in the said king Henry the 8th and his successors, and conferred over amongst other lands and possessions, to a Dean and Chapter by him newly erected, and their successors, by his letters patents, bearing date the 16th day of May, in the 33d year of the reign of king Henry the 8th.
That after that, all the tenants of the said prior and convent, with all the said manors, villages, and townships, becoming tenants of the said new erected Dean and Chapter, did continue their holds and possessions in their said farmholds and land, and could not be prevailed withall by the said Dean and Chapter, to take leases for twenty-one years in writing, though but at the old rents, howbeit much laboured and endeavoured by them, as appeared by some few inconsiderable leases, made by them to strangers of their lands, in the nature of concurrent leases, and of the reversions thereof, which yet were constantly, and are to this day enjoyed by the then present tenants, or their assigns, or such as do derive their interest, or have descended from them; the said lessees being employed, as it seems, to terrify the said tenants from their old way of holding into new leases, who yet continued in that manner, paying and performing the antient yearly rents and services accustomed, and very few leases were taken, till the 15th or 16th year of the late queen Elizabeth's reign, as by the receipt books and rentals plainly appears.
That then many and great differences ensuing betwixt the said Dean and Chapter and their tenants, concerning their estates, customs, and services, and the manner of the holds, which the said Dean and Chapter endeavoured to have altered, the then honourable lords of her majesty's privy council, and the lords president and council of the north, who from her majesty was authorised to hear and determine all differences of that nature in the northern counties, called before them the said parties concerned; and upon full and deliberate hearing and consideration had of the several demands, objections, and answers, of all the said parties, and by and with the consent of the said Dean and Chapter; did for the further and quiet settlement of the said estates, customs, holds, and services, make, decree, declare, and sett down their order, which was entered, as well in the books of orders and decrees of the said president and council, and of the privy council, as in the court of chancery at Durham, bearing date the 17th of August, in the 19th year of the reign of the said late queen Elizabeth; thereby ordering amongst other things,
that the said tenants should hold their lands and tenements from the said Dean and Chapter by lease for twenty-one years, and so from twenty-one years to twenty-one years for ever, paying only three years fine at the most for renewing a lease for twenty-one years as aforesaid;
and in consideration thereof, the said tenants to continue the performance of their ancient and accustomed service in the wars, with horse, man, and furniture, upon the borders and marches of England towards Scotland, for the space of fifteen days without wages, when the said Dean and Chapter or their successors should require.
That the then Dean and Chapter in approbation thereof, and consenting thereto, did confirm the same under their Chapter seal, bearing date the 27th day of February, in the 20th year of the reign of the late queen, and in observation, and pursuance of the said order, in relation to the three years fine therein specified; the said Dean and Chapter did, by their chapter act or grant, bearing date the 12th day of April, Anno Domini, 1626, order and appoint,
that the said tenants should have their leases renewed from time to time without difficulty or delay, paying a year's fine every 7th year, without any other exaction or demand, which by true account, is three years fine for a lease for twenty-one years,
as by the aforesaid order is limited and appointed.
And it doth also appear unto us, by the oaths of several persons produced and sworn thereby, and by all other lawful means, to inform ourselves of the truth of the claim made by the said tenants of a customary estate in reversion, in their tenements and farmholds after the expiration of their present leases: That the said tenants have accordingly had their leases renewed from twenty-one years to twenty-one years, and their fines never exceeded above three years rent at improvement, from time to time for twenty-one years, paying three years rent at the improved value, clear profit, ultra old rent and service, as a fine for a lease for 21 years, and to pay and perform their ancient yearly rents and services accustomed: And the said tenants have always had their leases renewed from twenty-one years to twenty-one years, and their fines never exceeded above three years rent at the improvement as aforesaid.
And it also appeared by the evidence, upon oath of diverse witnesses sworn and examined, that the said tenants right or trust in any estate in reversion so claimed as aforesaid, of and in the premisses, was so considerable in the general repute of the inhabitants of that county and the parts adjacent, as that the said lands and tenements was usualy alienated and sold within three years value at the most, of freehold and fee simple lands; and that the said tenants did usualy alienate and sell their said tenant right or customary estates for five years purchase at the least; and that the said Dean and Chapter themselves, even when all the term of years in several leases of the said tenants were expired, did offer five years purchase, and sometimes more, to such tenants for their tenant right, or customary estate so claimed as aforesaid, in case such tenants were not willing or able to pay the usual fine for renewing their said leases.
And it doth further manifestly appear unto us, that the livelyhood and subsistance of many hundred families in the said county, do solely depend upon the said tenements and farmholds, and the benefit they expect by their said claim of a customary estate and tenant right as aforesaid; and that diverse of the said tenants and their ancestors have continued some hundreds of years in the possession of their tenements, as it appears by the court rolls of the said late Dean and Chapter aforesaid.
Wm Hopkins,
Thomas Canby,
Hen. Lamby,
Anth. Wilson,
Gilbt Marshall,
Wm Feilden,
Wm Parkinson.
.
The year following dean Fuller's death
JOHN BARWICK, D. D.
was appointed to this deanry: He was born at Weatherslake, in Westmorland, in the year 1612, was educated at Sedbergh school, in Yorkshire, and admitted of St John's College, Cambridge, in 1631, of which he became a fellow: Was incorporated bachelor of divinity at Oxford, in February, 1661; and was chaplain to bishop Morton, who, in 1645, collated him to a prebend in this church, and when that prelate fell in the political confusion of the times, Dr Barwick was turned out of his fellowship and prebend: It is said he assisted Dr Hewitt in the melancholy duties of the scaffold; and was highly instrumental in king Charles II.'s restoration
Each. Hist. 751.
. On the king's return, he became doctor in divinity
By the king's mandate sent to Camb. dated 21 June, 1660.
☞ It is the Author's intention only to give a general character,—where he goes into particulars it is relative to offices in the church. In Biograph. Brit. vol. i. p. 523, the reader will find this person's history at large.
, and chaplain in ordinary to his majesty; and in consideration of his great sufferings, imprisonment, and persecution in the royal cause, had the deanry of Durham conferred on him, and was installed on the 1st of November, 1660, by his proxy, Dr Carlton: He preached at the cathedral on the occasion of Dr Cosins' election to the See: In the same year, he had the rich rectory of Houghton-le-Spring, which he held till December, 1661. Whilst he held the deanry, he caused the cathedral and all the prebendal houses to be repaired; erected the grammar-school from the ground, and made it a nursery of good literature. He brought water into the college, to supply the occasions of all the prebendaries' houses; reformed the manners of his clergy, and augmented the salaries of the poorer sort; and did many other public acts for the benefit of his church
See the life of dean Barwick, wrote by his brother, Peter Barwick, M. D. in Latin, and afterwards published by him in English, with notes, &c. 1724.—Wood's sasti Ath. Oxon. vol. ii. p 50, 2d edit.—Willis's Cath. vol. i. p 256.—Kennet's Reg 524.—Ibid. 302.—His behaviour at Durham, ibid. 629.—Newcourt's Rep. vol. i.—
Walker's Hist. of Suff. Clergy, part ii. p. 20.
. The chapter not only gave their consent to all these matters, but did all in their power to promote them; yet they were so far from exacting in the fines on their leases, and were so beneficial to all the poor, that, in an age very little favourable to the clergy, they are mentioned with honour for their humanity, candour, and piety. Nay, in many cases, they were so bountiful as to recede from their own right, in favour of their successors, that the revenues of the church might descend to them with some augmentation.—
Tempora mutantur!
On the 19th of October, 1661, he was removed from Durham, and made dean of St Paul's; and in the same year, on Dr Fearn's being made bishop of Chester, was chosen prolocutor of the convocation, and held the same till his death, which happened on the 22d of October, 1664, aet. 53. His remains were interred at St Paul's, and an elaborate epitaph was inscribed on his monument
Amori et aeternitati.
Quisquis es viator,
Oculum, animum huc adverte, lege, luge.
Jacent sub hoc marmore
Tennes exuviae non senttis animae
JOHANNIS BARWICK, S. S. Th. D.
Quem suum
atalibus gloriatur ager Westmoriensis,
S
diis academia Cantabrigiensis,
Admissum socium in S. Johannis collegium,
Indeque, quod magis honori est,
Pulsum a rebellibus.
Qui nec perduellium rabiem,
Nec haemoptysm, quamvis aeque eruentam,
Et certius heu! tandem percussuram,
Quiequam moratus,
Pro rege et ecclesia summe ardua molitus,
Diro carcere perquam inhumana passus,
(Inconcussa semper virtute)
Renatum denuo vidit et diadema & insulam,
Etiam suâ non parum obstetricante manu.
Qui deinde functus
Decanatu Dunelmensi paucis mensibus,
Decanatu Paulino verò triennio,
Parum diu utroque, sed sideliter;
Tandem (post caelibatum
Cum primis cestè cum primis sanctè cultum)
Labe pulmonum, et curis publicis confectus,
Heic requiescit in Domino,
Atque inter sacras Aedis Paulinae ruinas
Reponit suas,
(Utrasque resurrecturas securus)
Anno Aetatis LIII.
Anno Salutis MDCLXIV.
Caetera scire si velis,
Discede, et disce
Ex illustri primaevae pietatis exemplo,
Etiam sequiore hoc seculo,
Quid sit esse veri nominis
Christianum.
. He wrote and published many sermons and other things, among which was the Life and Character of Dr Morton, before mentioned. Upon being informed of his intended removal from the deanry of Durham, he instantly put a stop to all leasing of farms, (even some, where the fine had been already agreed upon between the chapter and the tenants) that the revenue of the deanry might come more intire to his successor, who was soon to take possession of it
The chapter lands, such as belong to the body in common, are let here, as in other churches, by a lease for twenty-one years, on a fine payable every seven: But each corps is let, as gentlemen let their estates, or parsons their glebe, at a rack rent, without any fine, and at as high a yearly value as they can.
. This and other acts of severity, occasioned the tenants to petition the king, setting forth their grievances, especially a breach of those ordinances which were made in the reign of queen Elizabeth
See page 149.
. The petition was referred to commissioners; an answer was given in by the dean and chapter, in 1662, and an interlocutory order was made in the matter; but whether any final determination was had, we cannot at present ascertain
The proceedings of the Dean and Chapter of Durham, against their rebellious tenants, before the king's commissioners.
1661.
To the KING'S most Excellent MAJESTIE. The humble PETITION of several auncient tenants to the Deane and Chapter of Durham, on behalfe of themselves and others.
Sheweth,
That for divers hundreds of yeares before the dissolution of the pryor and covent of Durham, your petitioners auncestors, and those under whome they clayme, held their lands to them and their heirs, under certain rents, services, and customes, by coppy of court roll, as by the entries thereof in the court rolls of the said pryor and covent may appeare.
That the Deane and Chapter imediately after the dissolution, endeavouring generally to breake the said customes, prevayled with some, and constrayned others to take leases, whereupon in the tyme of queen Elizabeth, upon complainte made to her majestie and privy councell, and upon reference to, and heareing of the said cause before the lord president and councell in the north, and upon heareing both partyes in the 19th yeare of her raigne: It was decreed
See this in page 149.
, that the tenants and their heires forgoeing their customary estates. should have their leases renewed from twenty-one yeares to twenty-one yeares for ever, according to a precedent thereunto annexed, with certaine provisoes of widdowes estates, and other agreements in the said decree, confirmed by the Deane and Chapter of Durham the 20th of Elizabeth, and entred in their register, and inrolled in the chauncery of Durham, as by an exemplification thereof, under the countye palatyne seale may appeare.
That the said Chapter, consisteing of a deane and twelve prebends, designeing to breake this way of holding alsoe, devyded the whole deanery amongst them by lottery, and for raiseing fines, some prebends lett leases to kinsfolks and servants, over the tenants heads, menaced others, and by such like artifice, gott some to submitt to leases according to the lords' order, and others to accept of leases for twenty-one years, (simply as they termed it) and soe to destroy the lords order; but for the most parte at three yeares old rent for a fine or little more; and afterwards, the said Chapter insisted upon three yeares racke-rent for a fine of twenty-one yeares, and afterwards demanded a seaven penny, (that is) a full years value every seaven years, and halfe a years value for a renewall every three years and a halfe; thus by their power and greatnes overswaying the tenants into what termes they pleased, contrary to the true intent, meaneing, and judgment of the said decree.
That wearied and impoverished in their livelyhoods and estates by these doeings; the late powers exposing these landes to faile, your petitioners, as well throwgh necessity to secure them, being all in lease for years then generally expireing, as alsoe to reduce their poore perplexed selves and estates to some kind of certainty, did purchase the same.
That notwithstonding their auncient holdings as aforesaide, your majesties declaration from Breda, and letters to the archbishops in behalfe of old tenants and purchasers, whereby your petitioners were incouraged and hoped to renew leases without fine, being in a better and different condition (the customs of their holdeings considered) from most of the tenants in England, but on the contrary, the Deane and Chapter demand greater fines of your petitioners than ever were paid in the worst of tymes, and before they were purchasers.
But findeinge that the saide Deane and Chapter have as little consideration of your majesties said declaration and letters, as of the just desyres of your petitioners;
Your petitioners are bound in all humility to have recourse to your majesties grace and favoure as their last refuge, and humbly to beseeche your majestie, either by recommending your petitioners condition to the consideration of the two houses of parliament, or otherwise, as to your majesties princely wisedome shall seeme meet, to render your most gracious intentions manifested in your majesties said declaration and letters, effectual for the reliefe of your petitioners.
And your petitioners, as in duty bound, shall pray, &c.
Nich. Hall,
John Hobson,
Richard Newton,
Nich. Wood,
Mich. Robinson,
John Brough,
Geo. Gray.
Ralph Adamson,
John Welsh,
John Watson,
John Cooper,
Ralph Suddicke,
Tho. Taylor,
John Hopper,
John Ingleby,
Wm Shepperdson,
Tho. Todd,
Anth. Daile,
Philip Brough.
At the Court at Whitehall,
the 4th March,
1661.
His Majestie is graciously pleased to referre this petition to the lords, and other the commissioners, authorized for the examination of the late pretended sailes of crowne and church lands, to examyne the allegations herein mentioned, and to give such order for the petitioners reliefe, as shall be fitt.
RA. FREMAN.
Vera Copia
—Isa. Troughton,
Tho. Marsh.
Friday, April
4th, 1662.
Inner Starr Chamber. By the lords and others his majesties commissioners, authorized for examination of the late pretended sailes of crowne and church lands.
Upon readeing the humble petition of the auncient tenants to the Deane and Chapter of Durham, directed to the kings most excellent majestie, and by his majestie referred to the sayd commissioners: It is ordered, that a copy of the sayd petition and reference aforesayd, be shewed unto the said Deane and Chapter, who are desyred to consider of the allegations therein contained, and to agree the matters in difference betwixt them and the petitioners, if they can; if not, to returne their answere in writeing to the sayd petition; and how the matter of fact stands, to the sayd commissioners, upon Fryday the thirtith day of May next; and the sayd Deane and Chapter are desyred to doe noe act to the prejudice of the petitioners, or any of them, by granting any new or concurrent lease or leases, whereby the petitioners present interests or possessions in the premisses may be hurt or disturbed, whilest the same is under their lordships consideration, and untill his majesties pleasure be further knowne herein.
Signed in the name, and by order of the sayd commissioners.
ISA. TROUGHTON,
THO. MARSH.
The ANSWER of the Deane and Chapter of Durham, to a petition exhibited against them to his majestie, by some of their tenants, and by his majestie referred to the lords and other commissioners authorized for examination of the late pretended sailes of crowne and church lands. IN obedience to your lordship's order of the
4th of Aprill, 1662,
these respondents say;
That the petition which is not onely against the present Deane and Chapter, but against all their predecessors from the first foundation, hath not any thing in it, which is not either impertinent or false, as wee are ready to prove in every particular.
I. Whereas they call themselves the auncient tenants of the Deane and Chapter of Durham, the first of them is not soe much as a tenant, but onely a purchaser of a farme belonging to the said Deane and Chapter, which he purchased of one that had formerly purchased the sayd farme from the trustees of the laite usurpers, but was never the tenant of that farme to the Deane and Chapter: And as for all the rest of the petitioners, who were formerly tenants to the Deane and Chapter, and do still possesse their lands, there is not one of them that wee knowe that hath any lease in being, or hath made any application to the respondents for the renewing of his lease, neither hath any one of them pay'd any rent to the church since the late pretended dissolution of deanes and chapters, and some of them being required to pay their rents, answere, that they have purchased their rents.
II. Whereas they alledge, that their ancestors, and they under whom they hold, held their lands to them and their heires under certaine rents servyces, and customes by copy of court roll, alledgeing for proofe thereof our booke of entries; these respondents say, that they have searched their booke of entries, and have not found any one tenant that ever held any of their lands to him and his heires, but onely for a terme of yeares, sometymes six sometymes nine, but for the most parte but three, with condition to be obedient to the pryor and covent, and provisoe (that if they dyed before that terme were expired) the grant to be voyd.
III. Whereas they alledge, that ymediately after the dissolution of the priory and covent, the Deane and Chapter endeavoureing generally to breake the said customes, prevayled with some, and constrayned others to take leases; wee answere that it is true, that ymediately after the dissolution of the priory and covent, the Deane and Chapter did lett almost all their lands by leases, some for sixty years, some for eighty and some for more, but generally for but one and twenty years, which way of holding, being much better for the tenants, then that which they had before, wee cannot understand, what need there was of any artifices or constrainte to bring the tenants to that way of holding their lands.
IV. Whereas they alledge an order of the lord president and councell of the north in the tyme of queene Elizabeth, wee answere, first, that there is a provisoe in that order that nothing therein conteyned, should extend to such tenants as formerly held their lands by lease, but only to such as called themselves tenants by customes, and were reputed by the Deane and Chapter to be onely tenants by curtisy: Secondly the order of the lords concerning those tenants, was made in consideration of border service, which is long since ceased: Thirdly, that the order of the lords was so little in favoure of the tenants, that some of them refused to take leases, according to that order, and others chuse rather to take leases simply: Fourthly, that all the leases for diverse years since, are without any referrence to such order, and as if there never had beene any such order.
V. Whereas it is alledged that the Deane and Chapter designeing to brake this way of holding, also devyded the whole deanery among them by lottery; we answere, First, that the Deane and Chapter for diverse years before the order of the lords, did divyde many leases among themselves by lottery, but never since that order, and therefore it could not be with designe to breake that order: Secondly, that if the Deane and Chapter devyded the whole deanry by lottery, the petitioners cannot derive their succession beyond those lotteryes, and therefore have not reason to complaine of them, nor pretence for holding from their auncestors before there was any Deane and Chapter as they alledge in the begining of their petition.
VI. Whereas they alledge that such tenants as were brought to accept of leases from such prebendaries as they sell unto by lott, paid but three yeares old rent for five or little more; it is false that they paid but three years rent or little more, for compareing the fines with the old rents, wee finde the fines oftentimes above tenn times soe much as the old rent, and sometymes above twelve time soe much, as for 2l 6s. 8d. rent, 30l. fine for a farme in Ayckliffe, in the name of Edward Thompson; and for 33s. 4d. rent, 20l. fine to Richard Hutchinson for a farme in Burdon; and for a tenement in Westow, 2l. 15s. 4d. rent, 38l. fine, which is neare fourteene tymes the old rent, which considering the proportion that was then betweene the rent and the true value of the lands, and the great disproportion, which is now by reason of the great increase of money, may be thought as great fines, as those which have been demanded since.
VII. Whereas they accuse these respondents of not regarding his majesties late gracious declaration and letters, and the just desyres of the petitioners, which are to renew their leases without fine: Wee answere, that wee conceive they have made this accusation generall, because they are not able to instance any one particular; and we desyre them to name any one tenant that hath made application to be, who hath not beene offered more in consideration of his purchase, and demanded lesse for fine, then is usualy offered and demanded by any church in England in treateing with their tenants.
Wee therefore humbly desire your lordships, that the petitioners may be required to make proofe of their allegations, which wee know they cannot; and although wee conceive wee are not bound to disprove them, wee are ready to shew the falsehoode of them, and the truth of every thing wee have affirmed, that it may appeare to your lordships, how impudently they have abused his majestie, with a complicacion of many false allegacions, troubled your lordshipps, and slandered theire landlords, by whose favours they have enjoyed theire livelyhoods at soe easye a rate, as ought to have beene acknowledged by them with much thankfulnes.
Fryday, June
6th, 1662.
Inner Starre Chamber. By the lords and others his majesties commissioners authorized for examination of the late pretended sailes of the crowne and church lands.
Whereas the cause upon the peticion of several auncient tenants who subscribed the peticion on behalfe of themselves and the rest of the tenants of the Deane and Chapter of Durham, presented to the king's most excellent majestie, and by his majestie referred to the said commissioners, and the answere of the said Deane and Chapter of Durham to the said Peticion, was by order of this board of the 30th May last, in behalfe of the said Deane and Chapter, appointed to be heard this day; and the said deane and his councell appeared, and Mr Hooper, solicitor, in behalfe of the petitioners, who alledged, he had noe notyce of the aforesaid order, and that the witnesses to make good the allegacions of the peticioners in theire said peticion, lived remote, and could not be ready against this day, and therefore prayed further tyme; but the deane and his councell pressed for the present heareing of the said cause, being by order of this board of the 4th of April last, tyed up from leting or leasing any of the lands belonging to the said Deane and Chapter (all the said tenants in the meane tyme refuseing to make payment of the reserved rents) till the said cause be determyned by this board, and his majesties pleasure further knowne; and therefore alledged, that the peticioners and the rest of the tenants on whose behalfe reliefe is prayed by the said peticion, being many, and in effecte tenants of all the said lands belonging to the said Deane and Chapter; the delay of heareing of the said cause will tend very much to the prejudice of the said Deane and Chapter: The commissioners upon debate and consideration had of the said case, and prejudice which may accrue to the saide Deane and Chapter, by the delay of heareing of the said cause prayed by the peticioners: doe order, that the clause of theire said former order of the 4th of April last aforesaid, whereby the said Deane and Chapter are desyred to doe noe act to the prejudice of the peticioners or any of them, by granteing any new or concurrent lease or leases whereby the peticioners present interests or possessions in the premisses may be hurt or disturbed, whilest the same is under their lordshipps consideracion, and untill his majesties further pleasure were knowne herein, be vacated and discharged: And further order, that the peticioners have liberty to appoint their owne day for heareing the merrits of the cause upon their said peticion, they first paying all the arrears of the reserved rents from them due to the said Deane and Chapter, and producing a certificate under the hands of the sa
d Deane and Chapter of the receipte thereof, which certificate upon their said payments, the said Deane and Chapter are hereby required to signe and deliver to the said peticioners.
Signed in the name and by order of the said commissioners,
ISA. TROUGHTON,
THO. MARSH.
☞A bill was filed the 10th November, 1662, to which the Chapter answered, and exceptions were taken thereto, but reported sufficient.
.
On Dr Barwick's promotion,
JOHN SUDBURY, D. D.
succeeded to this deanry, and was installed on the 25th of February, 1661. He was born at St Edmondsbury, and before his coming to the deanry, was one of the prebendaries of Westminster: He suffered all the distresses attending the distracted state of the church during the usurpation, with great magnanimity and virtue of mind; retaining his loyalty, and supporting the clerical character with dignity and fortitude: Was a great benefactor to his native place; and shewed an exalted and munificent spirit while dean of Durham: He began to build the present library in the cloister where the refectory stood, and expended thereon 1500l. or as others say, 1000l. but died before it was completed: The vicarage house of Billingham, in this county, was built by him. The dean departed this life in the year 1684, aet. eighty, and was interred in the cathedral church, before the dean's stall in the choir: His tomb-stone was inscribed with the epitaph given in the notes
He left 1500l per annum to Sir John, and gave 5 or 6000l. portion to his niece. Gray's Notes, MSS. Epitaph.—The tomb-stone is removed.
Quicquid mortale habuit, Heic deposuit In spe beatae resurrectionis JOHANNIS SUDBURY, S. T. P. Pietate, eruditione antiquis moribus, Gravitate, integritate vitae, & sancta canitice, Vir vere reverendus; Qui in sunestissimis magnae rebellionis temporibus Magno animo, & inconcussa in regem fidelitate Multa perpessus Regno & ecclesia (numinis savore) restauratis, Prebendarius primum Westmonasteriensis, Dein Decanus Dunelmensis Factus Eo munere per annos XXII. Et quod excurrerat integre, cum laude sunctus Decessit an. Aet. 80. salutis, 1684 Abi lector & aeternitatem cogita.
. Possessed of a considerable estate, he devised the same to his nephew Sir John Sudbury
Created a baronet 25 June, 1685, by the name of Sir John Sudbury, of Eldon, in the county of Durham
In dean Sudbury's time the archbishop of York claimed the guardianship of spiritualties, during the vacancy of this See, and it came to a solemn hearing when a determination was made in favour of the Chapter.
The articles of evidence, &c. are collected in Rudd's MSS.
; after his own death and that of his lady, it was limited to the dean's neice, who married Mr Tempest, of Old Durham, and with whom the dean gave a large portion.—He was succeeded by
DENIS GRANVILLE
So he writ his name, and sometimes Grenville. See his works, to which is prefixed a portrait.
, D. D.
a younger son of the loyal and valiant Sir Bevil Granville, and brother to John, the first earl of Bath of that family. After a suitable education, in September, 1657, he was admitted a fellow commoner of Exeter College, in Oxford. On the 28th of September, 1660, was created master of arts; and soon after, marrying Anne, youngest daughter of bishop Cosins, was collated by his lordship on the 16th of September, 1662, to the archdeaconry of Durham; and to the first prebend in the cathedral church, which he exchanged for the second, April 16, 1668. He had also, of his gift, the rectories of Easington and Elwick; and in the room of the latter, the living of Sedgefield. But he took a very regular and exemplary care of them, in the due discharge of all ministerial functions, as appears by the directions given to his curates, printed among his works, On the 20th of December, 1670, he was created doctor in divinity, being then chaplain in ordinary to his majesty, as he had been for several years before; and on the 14th of December, 1684, was installed dean of Durham. Thus possessed of such great preferments, he might have long enjoyed them with much profit and honour to himself and friends; and have continued to be an ornament to his function, and a general benefit to the world: But some absurd notions entertained of the unlimited extent of the prerogative, together with his strict adherence to the doctrines of passive obedience and non-resistance, involved him in inextricable difficulties. For, possessed with the indispensableness of their obligation, upon the prince of Orange coming to rescue this nation from the dangerous attempts made upon our religion and liberties, the dean opposed the measures taken for our common safety to the utmost of his power; by preaching, delivering charges to the clergy, sending up an address to king James, and subscribing a sum of money for his service. And when all his endeavours proved ineffectual, he was so entangled with those absurd doctrines, that, rather than submit to king William, he chose to lose his great preferments, and go into a voluntary exile; and, quitting Durham the 11th December, 1688, he arrived the 19th of March following, at Honfleur, in France. In February, 1689, he took a hazardous journey to England, whereby he got a small supply of money, to subsist abroad. His brother, the earl of Bath, (who was warm in the interest of the prince of Orange) endeavoured for some time to secure his revenues; but as no considerations whatever could induce him to swear allegiance to king William and queen Mary, he was at length deprived of all his preferments, February 1, 1690. He not only refused himself, but likewise did all in his power to deter, or rather to terrify others from taking the oaths, by representing the revolution as a rebellion and usurpation. Having no prospect, after the late king James's defeat in Ireland, of recovering his benefices, he repaired to the abdicated monarch's court, at St Germain; where, though he had reason to expect an uncommonly kind reception, yet, because he was a protestant, he was soon obliged to retire, not only from court, but also from the town. 'Tis said, that upon the death of Dr Lamplugh, he had the empty title of archbishop of York conferred upon him by king James. In 1695, he came incognito to England, where he found no encouragement to make any stay. Having for some years enjoyed but an indifferent state of health, he died at his lodgings in Paris, the 8th of April, 1703, aged 64, and was buried at the lower end of the church-yard of the Holy Innocents in that city. His nephew, lord Lansdown, draws his character to great advantage in the following words:—
Sanctity sate so easy, so unaffected, and so graceful upon him, that in him we beheld the very beauty of holiness. He was as chearful, as familiar, as condescending in his conversation, as he was strict, regular, and exemplary in his piety; as wellbred and accomplished as a courtier, and as reverend and as venerable as an apostle. He was indeed apostolical in every thing, for he abandoned all to follow his lord and master.
From this man's example, we may learn the great danger and mischief of propagating absurd and unreasonable doctrines. Since there will always be found some person or other, that will embrace and stiffly defend them, though never so much to their own, or others prejudice: All not being equally endowed with the same penetrating genius, or not having a yielding conscience alike
See Biog. Britan. vol. iv. p. 2259.—Willis, vol. i, p. 260, &c. Wood's Ath. Oxon. vol. ii. p. 959, 2d edit.—Kennet's Hist. England, vol. iii.—General Dict. vol. v. p. 557.—
Birch's Life of Tillotson, p. 202.
.
THOMAS COMBER, D. D.
was installed dean on the 15th of June, 1691, on the deprivation of Granville: He had his education in Sydney College, Cambridge; in 1677, was made prebendary of York, and had the stall of Holme; and in 1681, was removed to the prebend of Fenton in that cathedral: In 1683, he was collated to the precentorship there, by archbishop Dolben: After the revolution, was made chaplain in ordinary to king William and queen Mary, and obtained the deanry of Durham by the recommendation of lord Fauconberg and archbishop Tillotson
Dr Birch's Life of Tillotson, p. 378.
: There was allowed him 160l. for dilapidations in his deanry, which was never received; yet he expended in reparations about 400l. He departed this life on the 25th of November, 1699, aet. 55, and was interred at Stonegrave in Yorkshire
MS.
Siste, viator, gradum; Morae non erit dispendium scire, quanti viri venerandos premis cineres. Exuvias mortales (perenni felicitati maturos) heic deponi voluit Thomas Comber, S. T. P. grande nomen, pluribus hand opus; vir pietate, eruditione, ingenio, judicio ceterisque animi dotibus clarus; majora vero singentem non audis panegyrin ob sanctae matris ecclesiae Anglicanae causam; quoad doctrinam, cultum, disciplinam contra novatores omnes scriptis feliciter defensor, dignus haud simplici marmore; Gulielmo & Mariae, principibus illustrissimis a sacris; ecclesia Dunelmensis per decennium, breve nimis, decanus; ad maxima quaeque capessenda idoneus adque altiora munera promovendus, nisi publicis votis obstitisset mors invida. Plura licet meritis debita, non capiet marmor: Probis omnibus luctum, et sui desiderium relinquena, decessit 25 die Novembris, 1699, an. salutis, aetatis 55, provectiore semo, modo visum Deo, dignus. Will
. Cath. vol. i. p. 257—
.
HON. JOHN MONTAGUE, D. D.
fourth son of the earl of Sandwich, was installed the 19th June, 1699. In 1680, he was appointed master of Sherburn hospital, in this county. In 1683, he was made master of Trinity College; and in 1687, chosen vice-chancellor, and prebendary of the fourth stall in Durham cathedral, and after of the eleventh. He died on the 23d of February, 1727, aet. 73, and was interred at Barnnoll, the burying place of the family.
On Dr Montague's decease,
HENRY BLAND, D. D.
was appointed to this deanry, and installed the 6th of May, 1728, by his proxy Mr Walter Ostley: He was a native of Yorkshire, and received the first rudiments of literature at Eton school, where he contracted a friendship with Sir Robert Walpole: Was admitted scholar in King's College, Cambridge, in 1695, in which year Sir Robert also took his admittance: Was made rector of Harpley
Parkin's Hist. of Norfolk, vol. iv. p. 561.
, on the death of Dr Henry Colman, in the year 1715, by the presentation of William Hookes,
Esq
and Elizabeth his wife, which living he held to the time of his death: Was made chaplain to the king, and also of the royal hospital at Chelsea, in 1716; took his degree of doctor in divinity in 1717; and was appointed master of Eton school 1719: On the 13th of December, 1723, was installed canon of Windsor, and admitted dean of Durham the 12th of March, 1727: In February, 1732, he resigned his stall in Windsor, on being made provost of Eton College: Died at Eton on the 24th of May, 1746, and was interred in a vault in the antichapel there; leaving two sons and three daughters.—To him succeeded
THE HON. SPENCER COWPER, D. D.
a son of lord chancellor Cowper: He was installed on the 21st of July, 1746, by his proxy Mr Wadham Knatchbull: Was rector of Fordwich in Kent, and also one of the prebendaries of Canterbury, which he resigned on this promotion: He died at the deanry house on the 25th of March, 1774, aet. 62, and was interred in the east transept of the cathedral church called the Nine Altars, where a monument is erected to his memory
This marble is erected To the memory of the honourable and reverend SPENCER COWPER, D. D. Youngest son of William earl Cowper, Lord high chancellor of Great-Britain, In the reign of queen Anne, and king George I. He was made dean of this cathedral, In the year 1746: And, after a life spent in a steady uniform practice Of unaffected piety, friendship, humanity, and charity, Died at the deanry, in the 62d year of his age, On the 25th day of March, 1774.
.
THOMAS DAMPIER, D. D.
was installed dean on the 17th of June, 1774: Was prebendary of Canterbury, which he exchanged for a canonry at
indsor. Installed in the second prebend at Durham, the 20th of April, 1771; and exchanged it in March, 1773, for the mastership of Sherburn hospital, wherein he was inducted the 10th of the same month, and afterwards resigned it in favour of his son, the present dean of Rochester. Died at Bath the 31st of July, 1777.
HON. WILLIAM DIGBY, LL. D.
dean of Worcester, and canon of Oxford, was installed dean of Durham the 20th of September, 1777, and now enjoys that dignity.
PREBENDARIES OF THE FIRST STALL
Lands assigned to the first prebend.
Statutis. Dimidium manerij de Elvet Hall, vocat. Hall Garth, (with a close called Swallop Leys.)
8
6
8
Capitulo antiq. solvend
 
6
8
(The woods and mines reserved.)
 
 
 
Act. capituli Decimae assignat primo canonicatui.
 
 
 
Decimae Garbarum de North Sherburn, infra parochiam de Pittingdon
7
0
0
Decimae de North Pittingdon
2
16
8
Decimae de Hett sup' Montem
1
13
4
Decimae de Crook Hall, infra parochiam St Oswald
2
13
4
Gray's and Randall's MSS.
The sums stated are paid by the respective prebendaries, out of the appropriated premisses, to the chapter's treasury
.
EDWARD HYNDMERS, D. D. was nominated in the foundation charter: He was a Benedictine monk, and spiritual chancellor to bishop Tunstall; took his bachelor's degree at Oxford, 1513; made warden of Durham College about 1527, and proceeded doctor in divinity in July, 1535. He died in 1543, and was succeeded by
JOHN CRAWFORD, or CRAWFORTH, D. D. who was presented by king Henry VIII. the 7th of September, 1543
Tunstall's Reg, p. 16.
. Was vicar of Midford, in the county of Northumberland, the 12th of June, 1546, which he resigned before the 16th of July, 1561. Was spiritual chancellor to bishop Tunstall, and probably held both his prebend and chancellorship till his death: He gave St Augustine's works, edition 1529, to the library. By his will, dated the 4th of January, 1561, he ordered his body to be buried in St Michael's church, Witton, if he died there; otherwise, before Boulton's altar, in Durham cathedral, nigh the clock.
ROBERT SWYFT, LL. D. was collated the 28th of March, the mandate to induct him dated the 29th of March, and he was installed the 8th of April, 1562. He was born at Rotheram, in Yorkshire; educated at St John's College, Cambridge; studied the law, and took his degrees at Louvain. Having obtained a fellowship in St John's, and being rector of Sedgefield, void by the decease of dean Skynner, was ordained deacon and appointed prebendary by bishop Pilkington, the 5th of October, 1563,
ad titulum ecclesiae suae de Sedgefield:
Was spiritual chancellor during bishop Pilkington's prelacy, and for a short time after bishop Barnes came to the See; and was rector of Sedgefield above forty years: He married Ann, daughter of Thomas Lever, master of Sherburn hospital; and departing this life about the year 1599, was interred under the organ loft of the cathedral church, on the north side of the choir door
Skynner's Reg. p. 161.—Monum. Durh. p. 154.—
Willis's Cath. vol. i. p. 262.
Epitaph.
Robertus Swyste, Rotheramiae oriundus, Cantabrigiae in collegio Johannis
ocius, Lovanii impensis mercatorum Angliae ordinis adventuriensis antuerp
ae comorantium, juris utriusq. bachalaurius, Jacobi Dunolm. e
in eclesis cancellarius, qui postquam annos 40, et Segfeldense. Ovile curaverat, & una cum Anna conjug
vixerat —
caetera erasa.
.
JAMES RAND, A. M. an. 1599, was prebend of Litchfield, and half brother to bishop Neile; collated to Norton vicarage, the 29th of October, 1578: Resigned his prebend the 4th of October, 1620, and died at Norton, where he was interred the 19th of November, 1621.
ROBERT NEWELL, D. D. was installed the 20th of October, 1620: Was half brother to bishop Neile, and his chaplain: He was a Cambridge man, but incorporated doctor in divinity at Oxford, 1600: Was made treasurer of Chichester the 25th of November, 1610: Prebendary in the ninth stall of Westminster, 1613: Subdean of Lincoln, the 14th of May, 1613, which he quitted the same year: Installed archdeacon of Bucks, the 24th of April, 1614: Prebendary of Clifton, in Lincoln church, the 26th of April, 1614: Rector of Islip, in the county of Oxford, and of Crawley, in the county of Bucks; and had some preferments in Winchester cathedral, where he is supposed to be buried; having departed this life in the year 1643. He resigned his prebend in 1638
Ath. Oxon. vol. i.—Heylin's Life of Laud, p. 55.—Willis's Cath. vol. i.
.
GABRIEL CLARK
June 1, 1633. He was one of the eight prebendaries who supported the canopy over the head of king Charles I. when he was at Durham, in his way to Scotland. —
et's Reg. 6
1.—Wa'k. Suff. Clergy.— Ath. Oxon. vol. i. s. 191.
Epitaph. I. II. S. Hic jacet D'nus. Gabriel Clarke, S. S. theologiae professor, Archidiaconus Dunelm. Et hujus ecclesiae, Subdecanus, qui Mortuns est Anno 1662. Maij decimo.
, D. D. was collated and installed the 1st of August, 1638, being removed from the third stall in this church: He was of Christ-Church, Oxford, and chaplain to bishop Neile: Was collated to the archdeaconry of Northumberland, the 7th of August, 1619, which he resigned two years after: Was collated to the archdeaconry of Durham, the 11th of October, 1620, and to Elwick the 6th of September that year: Was made master of Gretham hospital, the 24th of July, 1624: Was inthroned as proxy for bishop Cosins, but died before the bishop made his first visit the 19th of July, 1662: The 20th of May, 1637, was appointed by the chapter, with two others, (by letter of attorney) to prosecute their suits: The 4th of September, 1661, was chosen proctor to the convocation. He was prebendary here forty-two years in the whole, viz. in the sixth stall three years, the third stall twelve years, and in this stall twenty-seven years; and it is very remarkable, was installed the same day of the same month, into each prebend. He died at Durham the 10th of May, 1662, and was buried in the cathedral near the clock
Ath. Oxon. vol. i.—Walker's Suss. Clergy, p. 2, 19.—Kennet's Reg. 681. Heylin's Life of Laud, 5
.
, being that year subdean.
DENNIS GRANVILLE, D. D. installed the 24th of September, 1662; afterwards dean of Durham
See more of him among the deans, p. 167.
.
THOMAS SMITH, D. D. was removed from the fourth prebend; collated the 21st of April, and installed the 1st of July, 1668. He was born at Whitewall, in the parish of Ashby, in Westmorland; was educated at Appleby school, and thence sent to Queen's College, Oxford, where he obtained a fellowship, and was employed as a tutor: Was nephew to Dr Barlow. August 2, 1660, he was created bachelor of divinity; and the 14th of November in that year, installed a prebendary of Carlisle: In November or December following, obtained the degree of doctor in divinity by diploma: On the 23d of March, 16
0, was made prebendary of Litchfield. During the rebellion he lived in retirement, in Cumberland, and there married. After the restoration, was made chaplain in ordinary to the king: On the 4th of March, 1671, was made dean of Carlisle; and in 1684, was elected to that bishopric, and quitted his stall at Durham. He died at Rose-castle, on the 12th of April, 1702, aet. 78
Kennet's Reg. 327.—Ath. Oxon. 877.—2 Ath. Ox. 1
81.
D. S. Thomas Smith, S. T. P. Hujus ecclesiae primum canonicus Dein decanus, tandemque episcopus Placide Domino requiescit Vixit annos, LXXVIII. Obiit duodecimo die Aprilis, MDCCII.
, and lies buried in the cathedral at Carlisle, before the high altar.
WILLIAM GRAHAM, D. D. was installed the 16th of August, 1684 He was son of Sir George Graham, of Netherby, and younger brother of Richard, lord viscount Preston: Was educated at Christ-Church, Oxford, where he took the degree of master of arts, the 11th of March, 1680, and was diplomated doctor in divinity, the 14th of June, 1686: Was chaplain in ordinary to the princess Ann of Denmark: Collated to the rectory of Whickham, and inducted therein the 10th of August, 1685: Installed dean of Carlisle, the 23d of June, 1686, and of Wells the 28th of July, 1704. He died the 5th of February, 1711, and was buried at Kensington
Ath. Oxon. vol. ii. p. 229.
.
JOHN BOWES, D. D. was removed from the fifth stall, collated the 1st of May, installed the second of that month, 1712: He was the fifth son of Thomas Bowes, of Streatlam-castle,
Esq
and next brother to William Bowes, many years member in parliament for this county: Was rector of Elwick, 1701, but resigned for the rectory of Bishop-Weremouth, to which he was inducted the 6th of September, 1715. He expended in rebuilding and ornamenting his prebendal house, about 1000l. towards which he had an allowance of wood from the chapter, to the value of 250l. He died unmarried, the 14th of January, 1721.
THOMAS RUNDLE, LL. B. was presented the 23d of January, and installed the 14th of February, 1721, but quitted it the same year for the twelfth stall: Was of Exeter College, Oxford, where, on the 26th of June, 1710, he obtained a bachelor's degree, and on the 27th of July, 1723, that of doctor of laws: Was chaplain to bishop Talbot, archdeacon of Wilts, and treasurer of Sarum, in 1720: Was collated to the rectory of Sedgefield, 1722; and, in 1727, was made master of Sherburn hospital, both which he resigned in 1735, on being consecrated bishop of Derry, in Ireland. He departed this life in April 1743
Whiston's Life, 268, 271.
.
THOMAS MANGEY, first LL. D. afterwards D. D. was removed from the fifth stall: Collated the 22d of December, and installed the 16th of January, 1722: Was son of Arthur Mangey, a goldsmith, at Leeds; fellow of St. John's College, Cambridge, afterwards chaplain to Dr Robinson, bishop of London: He was deputy to Dr Lupton, as preacher at Lincoln's Inn, and chaplain at Whitehall: Was made rector of Ealing, in Middlesex, which he resigned in 1754; had the living of Guildford, and was rector of St Mildred, Bread-street, London, to the time of his death. When Dr Robinson, at the request of bishop Crew, consecrated Sunderland church, on the 4th of September, 1719, Dr Mangey preached the sermon, for which he was rewarded with a prebend in the cathedral church: He married one of the daughters of archbishop Sharpe
By whom he had one son, John Mangey, M. A. of Cambridge; who was collated by bishop Secker, to D
mow, in Essex.
. When treasurer of the chapter at Durham, he greatly advanced the fines upon the tenants, and improved the rents of his prebendal lands near 100l. a year. He died at Durham on the 6th of March, 1755, and was interred in the eastern transept of the cathedral church
H. S. E.
THOMAS MANGEY, S. T. P. hujus ecclesiae canonicus,
Qui in agro Eboracensi natus,
Et Cantabrigiae academicis disciplinis innutritus,
Inter doctiores aetatis suae juvenes adhuc emicuit.
Favore tandem & praesidio
JOHANNIS ROBINSON, episcopi Londinensis
(Cujus a sacris fuit domesticis)
Auctus ecclesiis parochialibus de Ealing, in Middlesexia,
Et St. Mildredae, in Bread-street, Lond.
Tot ingenii praecellentis.
Tot simul eruditionis variae
Protulit specimina,
Ut virorum opibus et gratia pollentium
Amicitiam sibi facile conciliaverit.
Nec male, in publico versatus existimationi suae consuluit.
Nam in negotiis obcundis solers,
Propositique semper tenax.
Nihil parcè timidè aut cunctanter egit.
In concionibus pros
uens, argutus & elegans:
Veritatisq. Christianae fidissimus assertor
De limato ejus judicio, & linguarum peritia,
Necnon de ratione studiorum ejus; in quae indefinenter incubuit.
Consulantur quae scripsit ipse.
Quaeque edidit, transtulit, adornavitque aliena.
Filius ejus unicus Johannes,
Ne deesset patri etiam mortuo pietatis suae testimonium.
Hoc marmor et posuit,
Marmoriq. hoc elogium inscribi curavit.
Obiit sexto die Martij, A. D. 1755.
Aetatis suae 71
This epitaph was composed by Dr Sharp, then a prebendary and archdeacon of Northumberland.
.
.
WILLIAM WARBURTON, D. D. was installed by proxy, the 11th of April, 1755. He served some years as clerk to an attorney at Newark upon Trent, and afterwards was a schoolmaster
Grey's Notes, MSS.
there, but never received a university education.
He was a great flatterer of Sir Robert Sutton, afterwards of archbishop Potter's son, and Mr Allen, of Prior Park, near Bath, whose niece he married, with a large portion
Ibid. MSS.
.
He was preacher of Lincoln's Inn, and was made dean of Bristol in October, 1757: On the 20th of January, 1760, was consecrated bishop of Gloucester at Lambeth, and had leave granted to hold this prebend and Briante Broughton rectory, in the county of Lincoln,
in commendam:
Was chaplain to king George II. He wrote much, particularly A Treatise on the Divine Legation of Moses
Mr Peters, author of an excellent Comment upon Job, examined and exposed his Divine Legation, so far as related to Job's history.
.—After using Mr Pope very grossly, in a letter to Dr Birch, by his power in the arts of adulation, he insinuated himself at last so far into that poet's good opinion, that all his manuscripts were left to his care. In 1768, he transferred the sum of 500l. bank 4 per cent. annuities consolidated, to Lord Mansfield, Judge Wilmot, and Mr Cha. Yorke, upon trust for the purpose of founding a lecture in the manner of a sermon, to prove the truth of revealed religion in general, and of the Christian in particular, from the completion of the Prophecies in the Old and New Testament, relative to the Christian church, especially directed to arraign the apostacy of Rome. Bishop Warburton died at Gloucester, the 7th of June, 1779, upwards of fourscore years of age, and lies buried in the cathedral there
See his literary charcter, Gent. Mag. July 1779,—and memoirs in same Mag. August, September, and October, 1780.
To the memory of WILLIAM WARBURTON, D. D. For more than xix years bishop of this see. A prelate Of the most sublime genius, and exquisite Learning. Both which talents He employed through a long life, In the support Of what he firmly believed, The CHRISTIAN RELIGION. And Of what he esteemed the best establishment Of it, The CHURCH of ENGLAND. He was born at Newark upon Trent, Dec. 24. 1698. Died at his palace, in this city, June 7, 1779, And was buried near this place. Beneath the entablature is the head of the bishop, in a medallion.
.
CHARLES COOPER, D D. was installed the 30th of August, 1779: He was a prebendary of York, and now holds the rectory of Kirby-over-blow, in Yorkshire.
PREBENDARIES OF THE SECOND STALL
Lands, &c. assigned to the second stall.
Statutis.
Dimidium manerij de Elvet Hall, vocat Hallgarth, &c.
8
6
 
Capitulo antiq. solvend.
0
6
8
Act. capituli
Decimae assignat
 
 
 
 
Decimae de Cold Hesleden infra parochiam de Dalton, p' ann.
5
0
0
 
Decimae de Edon infra paroch. de Hesledon
3
3
4
 
Decimae de Hardwick infra paroch de Hesledon
2
0
0
 
Decimae de Redworth infra paroch. de Heighington
4
0
0
Lib. Receptoris.
Solvit etiam capitulo pro decimis de Swallop leeses
0
4
0
.
ROGER WATSON, D. D. a monk of this church, appointed May 12, 1541: He was instituted to the rectory of Rothbury, in Northumberland, the 2d of September, 1550; and to the vicarage of Pittington, the 25th of October, 1560
Horn's Reg. p. 124, 131.
. Was
ferrarius
at the dissolution of this house; and died in September, 1561. By his will, dated the 7th of that month, he ordered his body to be buried in the cathedral church, before the choir door, as nigh Mr Castell, (formerly prior it is supposed) as might be convenient.
JOHN PILKINGTON, D. D.
(frater et sacellanus episcopi)
collated the 1st of October, and installed the 8th, 1561. He was born in Lancashire; ordained a priest by bishop Grindal, the 25th of January, 1559, being master of arts, and fellow of Pembroke Hall, Cambridge
Preb. of Mapesbury, in the church of St Paul's, the 10th of February, 1559.
The Dean and Chapter of Durham were summoned to attend at Westminster, the 11th of June, 1562, when the thirty-nine articles were agreed on, and Dr John Pilkington, and Adam Holyday, were by the Chapter appointed to be their proctors.—
8 D. and Ch. Register, p. 183, 186.
. On the 5th of December, 1563, was collated archdeacon of Durham. He died in 1603, and was buried in this church without any monument.
JOHN BROWNE, A. M. 1603, resigned the 1st of August, 1620.
AUGUSTIN LINDSELL, D. D. was removed from the tenth stall, and installed here 5th of August, 1620. He was born at Burnsed, in the county of Essex; was a fellow of Clare Hall, and made a prebendary of Lincoln, the 6th of November, 1612, and Melsworth, in the county of Hants, and was collated to Houghton-le-Spring, by bishop Neile the 7th of June, 1623; made dean of Litchfield in 1628, and elected bishop of Peterborough, the 22d of December, 1632, when he resigned his deanry: He was translated to Hereford, the 7th of March, 1633, and died suddenly in his study
Peck's Desid. lib. 8. p. 52.
, the 6th of November, 1634, and was buried there
Ath. Oxon. vol. i. and ii.—Dr Hicks' pref. to Biblioth. Scriptor. Eccles. Anglic.—Archbishop Laud's Troubles, 366.—Heylin's Life of Laud, p. 215, &c.
Epitaph. D. O. M. S. AUGUSTINUS LINDSELL, Primo PETRIBURGENSIS mox HEREFORDENSIS ecclesiae Gubernaculis admotus, tandem ex motu requiem Invenit. Calculo extinctus est die sexto Novembris, MDCXXXIV. Vir omni literatura excultissimus, pietate egregia et candore animi singulari, et per omnia saeculo suo major de quo si Forte sileat ingrata posteritas, sat erit Compendio dixisse Theologiae oraculum hic jacet.
On the monument the effigies of Aug. Lindsell, in his sacerdotal habit; and over him the representation of a city.
. He composed a register of the church of Durham, which is cited in Reyner's Apostol. Benedict. Tract. I. p. 78.
JOHN WEEMES, A. M. was installed the 7th of June, 1634: Was a Scotchman, and minister of Laythaker, in Scotland; promoted at the special recommendation of king Charles I. and was a learned writer in divinity: He died in the year 1636
His works were printed in the year 1637, in 4 vols. 4to.—According to Rymer's Foedera, vol. xix. p. 609. he was presented the 4th of May, 1634.
.
JOSEPH NAYLOR, D. D. was collated the 10th of November, 1636: Was born at Wakefield, in Yorkshire, fellow of Sidney College, Cambridge, and chaplain to bishop Morton; was collated to the archdeaconry of Northumberland, the 25th of February, 1632, and to Sedgefield rectory, the 19th of January, 1634. He applied to Mr Lever, for his assistance in procuring the payment of the dues of the living of Sedgefield in Oliver's time, and afterwards wrote Mr Lever a warm letter of thanks for what he did therein
Calam. Contin. of Ejected Members, 652.
. On the 3d of May, 1661, he was chosen a proctor for the chapter, at the convocation of York: His prebendal house was in effect wholly ruined, which he rebuilt and enlarged in 1662. He was the author of Additions to the History of Bishop Morton's Life, wrote by his father-in-law, R. Baddely, the bishop's secretary
Walker's Suff. of Clergy, part ii. p. 20.
His daughter, Dulcibella, married Thomas Dalton of the 5th prebend, to her first husband, and Dr Morton of the sixth, to her second husband.
. Dr Naylor died the 6th of January, 1667, and was buried in the chancel of his church at Sedgefield
Hic in Dno. requiescit JOSEPHUS NAYLOR, S. T. P. eccle Cath. Dunelm canonicus major, hujusq. parochiae Rector vere dignus. Theologus insignis, doctrina pietate, Fide erga Deum, ecclesiam, regem, ad exemplum, Constanti, singulari prudentia & moribus Univerfim suavissimis, penitus supra fatum. Hoc sui quod mortale fuit, & jam in Occiduo cinere sub spe christianissimâ resurgendi ad gloriam, Et eum aspiciendi Cujus nomen est oriens, placidè hic deposuit 6to die Januarij Epiphaniorum sacro, bono omine. Anno
Christi, 1667.
Aetatis 73.
Nunc lector amice attamen quisquis sis, ex hinc Disce, quid es, & quid eris. In memoriam
Optimi & charissimi conjugis, conjux moestissima DULCIBELLA NAYLOR, hocce posuit.
.
DENNIS GRANVILLE, A. M. removed from the first prebend, and installed the 16th of April, 1668; afterwards was made dean
Held both Sedgefield and the archdeaconry of Durham with his deanry, yet ran into very great debts.
Grey's Notes, MSS.—See page 167.
.
Sir GEORGE WHELER, knight, and D. D. was collated the 1st, and installed the 9th of December, 1684, by his proxy: Was descended of the family of Whelers, in Kent, and born at Breda, in Holland: Was of Lincoln College, Oxford, 1667, where he entered as a commoner, and afterwards as gentleman commoner, under the tuition of Dr Hicks: He obtained the degree of master of arts, 1683, but previous thereto had travelled over the greatest part of Greece: On his return, presenting a journal of his travels to king Charles II. was knighted. He took his doctor in divinity degree by diploma on the 18th of May, 1702: Held the vicarage of Basingstoke, in Hampshire; was curate of Whitworth, in this county, 1703, rector of Winston, 1706, of Houghton-le-Spring, 1709, and had the appointment of official to the dean and chapter of Durham: His temporal estate amounted to 1400l. a year, or thereabouts. He died on the 15th of January, 1723, aet. 74, and was interred at the west end of the nave of Durham cathedral, near the tomb of the Venerable Bede, where a handsome monument is erected to his memory
The Epitaph.
Hunc post parietem conditur
Quod mortale suit GEORGII WHELER
Equitis curati S. T. P.
Rectoris vigilantissimi ecclesiae de Houghton
Hujusce ecclesiae canonici meritissimi
E stirpe generosa inter cantianos oriundus
Bredae tamen inter Batavos natus
Parentibus ob regiam causam egregie exulantibus
Prima literarum tyrocinia
Inter Lincolinenses Oxonij posuit.
Dein doctissimo medico sponio comite
In Italiam, Gr
eciam, Asiamq. profectus
Antiqua rerum monumenta Christiana profana
Tantum non exhausit.
Reversus ex illustri Granvillorum stirpe natam
Filiam Tho. Higgons mil. ad Venetos legati,
Forma, virtute, pietate insignem
Duxit; e quâ numerosam suscepit sobolem.
Post brevi a serenissimo principe Carolo iido.
Equestri titulo ornatus
Contranitentibus licet suis
Sacros ambivit ordines
Maluitq. in ecclesiâ servire
Quam in aula splendescere.
Per totum vitae cursum
Munificentiae in literatos
Humanitatis in hospites,
Charitatis in pauperes,
Singulare dedit exemplum,
Pietatis diviniq. amoris rarissimum.
Ecclesiae christianae ritus, mores, & dogmata
Haud quisquam vel laboriosius indagavit,
Vel studiosius sectatus est
Vel melius calluit,
Fidei primaevae in scriptis assertor,
Disciplinae in vita aemulus
Obiit 18 cal. Feb. anno Domini 1723-4,
Anno aetatis 74.
Hoc marmor extrui curavit
Filius unicus supersles Granville Wheler.
Sepult 23 Jan. 1723. E. Reg. Cath.
.
MARTIN BENSON, A. M. was collated the 25th of January, and installed the 5th of February, 1723, by his proxy, Mr Stonhewer, of Washington. He was of Christ-Church, Oxford, and attended Lord Pomfret in his travels, as tutor: Was chaplain to king George II. 1727, a prebendary of Salisbury, archdeacon of Berks, and rector of Blechley, in Bucks; was created doctor in divinity at Cambridge, in 1730, when the king visited that university, and was consecrated bishop of Gloucester, the 19th of January, 1734, being permitted to hold this prebend
in commendam.
He died at Gloucester, on the 30th of August, 1752, and was buried in the cathedral there.
JAQUES STERN, LL. D. was collated to this prebend by king George II. it having fallen void during a vacancy of the See, by the death of bishop Butler, and was installed by proxy, the 31st of May, 1755. He was collated to the prebend of Absthorpe, in York cathedral, and resigned the same for Ulleskelf, 1731: Was made precentor of York, the 24th of November, 1735; afterwards canon residentiary and prebendary of Driffield, and chaplain to archbishop Blackburn, by whom he was collated to the archdeaconry of Cleveland, the 24th of November, 1735, which he resigned for that of the East Riding, April 1750. He was also rector of Rise, and vicar of Hornsea cum Riston, both in the East Riding: On being presented to this stall, he resigned the archdeaconry of the East Riding: Died at his house in York, the 9th of June, 1759, and was buried at Rise
He made a will in deprivation of his relations, leaving his real and personal estate to Mrs Benson his house keeper.
Grey's Notes, MSS.
.
WILLIAM MARKHAM, LL. D. master of Westminster school, was installed the 20th of July, 1759. Was of Christ-Church, Oxford, where he took a master of arts degree, the 20th of March, 1745; on the 20th of November, 1752, a degree of bachelor of civil law, and on the 24th of the same month, a doctor's degree was obtained. In the month of January, 1764, he quitted the mastership of Westminster school: In February, 1765, was made dean of Rochester: Was chaplain to king George II. and king George III. and vicar of Boxley, in Kent. On the 12th of October, 1767, he was promoted to the deanry of Christ-Church, in Oxford; consecrated bishop of Chester in January 1771, and in the succeeding month, was appointed preceptor to the Prince of Wales: In 1777 he was translated to the archbishopric of York.
THOMAS DAMPIER, D. D. was installed the 20th of April, 1771: He was canon of Windsor. In 1773, he resigned this stall for the mastership of Sherburn hospital, and succeeded to the deanry of Durham in 1774
See page 170.
.
HENRY EGERTON, D. D. brother to the present lord bishop of Durham, succeeded to this stall in the year 1773. He was rector of Whitchurch, in the county of Salop, archdeacon of Derby, residentiary of Litchfield, and prebend of Holme, in York cathedral, which he resigned in May 1773. He now holds the rectory of Bishop-Weremouth, in this county.
PREBENDARIES OF THE THIRD STALL
Lands assigned to the third stall.
Stat.
Manerium de Sacristan Hugh, cum Pasturis Peatis & Herbagio
6
15
10
 
Holcroft
2
0
0
 
Capitulo antiq. solvend.
 
15
10
Act. capit.
Decimae assignat.
 
 
 
 
Decimae Garbarum de Aicliff p' ann.
9
0
0
 
Decimae Garb. de Brafferton, in paroch. Aicliff
3
6
8
 
Decimae schole Aicliff, infra paroch. Heighington
2
0
0
.
THOMAS SPARKE, B. D. appointed by the foundation charter, May 11, 1541. He was of Durham College, Oxford, and took his bachelor of divinity's degree in 1528, being at that time prior of the cell of Lindisfarne: In the year 1529, he left the university
cum pannis suis,
to come to the monastery of Durham, and was chamberlain there at the dissolution. He was consecrated suffragan bishop of Berwick, June 1537, in which dignity he continued during the remainder of his life; the royal mandate to archbishop Lee for his consecration, bears date the 12th of June, 1537, and the 20th of June following, bishop Tunstall empowered him to exercise his chorepiscopal authority through the whole diocese of Durham; and likewise granted him, by letters patent under his palatine seal, an annuity of forty pounds out of his manor of Auckland, to be paid half yearly, until he should be presented to an ecclesiastical benefice of the yearly value of fifty pounds: He was collated to Gretham hospital September 6, 1541, and to Wolsingham rectory the 14th of June, 1547; and departed this life in the year 1571. Though by his will, dated the 25th of January, 1563, he ordered his body to be buried in Durham cathedral, before our Lady's or Houghwell's altar, yet he was interred in the choir of Gretham chapel, near the sepulchre of William Estfield, a former master there.
JOHN FOX, A. M. the martyrologist, was collated the 2d of September, and installed the 14th of October, 1572. This person, averse to the habits of the church of England, which were here kept up in great strictness, quitted his stall within the year, probably on that account: He was born at Boston, in the county of Lincoln: Was fellow of Magdalen College, Oxford, and took the degree of master of arts in 1543. Holland says he never had any ecclesiastical preferment; and Wood, that he was only prebend of Shipton
His family enjoyed the income of Shipton prebend until Sir Richard Willis married the heir of the family, viz. the daughter of Robert Fox, M. D. Grey's Notes, MSS.—He resigned this prebend 1573.
, in Salisbury, and vicar of St Giles', Cripplegate. He wrote an epitaph on bishop Pilkington, his benefactor: Died the 18th of April, 1587, aet. 70, and was buried in the chancel of his vicarial church of St Giles
Willis's Cath. vol. i.—Ath. Oxon vol. i. p. 230, 690.—Fuller's Ch. Hist. lib. ix. p. 76.—Strype Eliz. p. 137. Strype Ann. vol. i. p. 201, 202, 248.—Gen. Dict. vol. v. p. 299.—His character Strype vol. iii. p. 501, and family.—An account of his book of martyrs, Strype Ann. vol. i p. 207, 250, &c. Defence of it, ib. 252.
.
ROBERT BELLAMY, M. D. was installed the 13th of October, 1573: Was of St John's College, Oxford, and admitted doctor in physic the 23d of June, 1571; was collated to Egglescliff, in this county, the 6th of February, 1577; instituted to Whalton, in Northumberland, the 9th of August, 1579, which he resigned: Was collated rector of Houghton, the 25th of January, 1584; and was chaplain to bishop Barnes. He quitted his prebend and Houghton living for Sherburn hospital, to which he was collated in November 158
, and died possessed thereof in 1606.
ROBERT HUTTON, B. D. was installed the 13th of December, 1589: Was senior fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge; and collated to Houghton le-Spring, the 4th of December, 1589, where he purchased an estate, and built a house, now possessed by his descendants: He was younger brother to bishop Matthew Hutton, and married a daughter of bishop Pilkington: Was prosecuted in the high commission court in 1621, for reflecting, in a sermon preached at the cathedral, on the king, the bishop, the church and its ceremonies. He died at Houghton in 1623, and lies buried in the choir of the church there
Grey's Notes, MSS. He bore the same arms with bishop Hutton.—Stryp. Ann. vol iv. p. 15.—Fuller's Ch. Hist. cant. xvii. lib. 10. p. 38, 39.—From this Robert the family of Huttons of Houghton are descended.— See his pedigree, vol. i. p. 470, —and Thoresby's Leeds, 173.—Also Houghton-le-Spring in the sequel.
.
GABRIEL CLARK, A. M. installed the 1st of August, 1623, was removed to the first stall
See page 171
.
JOHN NEILE, A. M. afterwards D. D. was collated the 1st of August, 1635: Was nephew to the bishop. On the 27th of October, 1638, he was made archdeacon of Cleveland; the 20th of September, 1660, prebendary of Strenshall, in York cathedral; instituted vicar of Northallerton, the 2d of May, 1669, and appointed dean of Ripon in May, 1674. He was rector of Beeford, in Holderness, and exchanged for Sigston near Northallerton; in 1661, was prolocutor in the convocation at York, when the common prayer book was revised. He died the 14th of April, 1675, and was buried at Ripon
Walker's Suff. Clerg. part ii. p. 83.
.
THOMAS MUSGRAVE, D. D. was installed the 12th of July, 1675. He was of Queen's College, Oxford; and on the 5th of May, 1662, took the degree of master of arts, and bachelor and doctor in divinity in October, 1685: Was collated to the archdeaconry of Carlisle, the 25th of March, 1668, and to the third stall in that church, 1669: On the 22d of August, 1675, was collated to the rectory of Whitburn, in this county: In 1676, he resigned his prebend in Carlisle cathedral, and the 13th of October, 1684, was admitted dean there. He departed this life the 28th of March, 1686, and was buried in the cathedral church at Durham, near the clock
His only daughter married Mr Ralph Shepperdson, of Pittington. He recovered dilapidations of his predecessor Dr Speed, at Whitburn, and built the south point of the parsonage house there: Was the first prebendary made by bishop Crewe. He was prebendary of Chichester, Nov. 10, 1681.
Grey's Notes, MSS.
"Here lyes interred THOMAS MUSGRAVE, D. D. Dean of Carlisle, and late Prebendary of this cathedral. He was ye 5th son of Sr Philip Musgrave, Of Hartley castle, in ye county of Westmorland, Bart. who dyed ye 28th of March, 1686, in ye 47th year of his age. He first marryed Mary, ye daughter of Sir Thomas Harrison, of Allerthorpe, in the county Of York, Kt. by whom he had issue Margaret: His second wise was Ann, the daughter of Sir Jo. Cradock, of Richmond, in ye sd county, Kt. "
The 29th of May, 1669, he had a dispensation to hold two livings.
.
JOHN CAVE, A M. was installed the 15th of May, 1686: He was son of John Cave, vicar of Great Milton, in Oxfordshire, and educated at Tame school: In 1654 he was of Magdalen College; on the 24th of September, 1660, was chosen a fellow of Lincoln College; and on the 30th of April, 1661, had a degree of master of arts: He was chaplain to bishop Crew, had the rectory of Gateshead, and exchanged with Mr Richard Werge, for Nailston, in Leicestershire; also held the rectory of Cole Orton, in that county, where he died in the month of October, 1690, aet. 52, and was interred there
Ath. Oxon. vol. ii. p. 854.
.
SAMUEL EYRE, D. D. was installed the 10th of November, 1690. He was of Lincoln College, Oxford, and on the 8th of July, 1687, took his degree of doctor in divinity: In April 1686, he was collated to the rectory of Whitburn. Died in 1694, and lies buried in the cathedral church at Durham, near Dr Swyfte, on the north side of the choir door, under the organ-loft
2 Ath. Oxon. Fast. 230.
.
JAMES FINNEY, D. D. was installed on the 27th of November, 1694: Was of St John's College, Oxford; on the 5th of July, 1676, took a master of arts degree; and on the 14th of April, 1698, was diplomated doctor in divinity. He held the vicarage of Kirklington, belonging to the college, and was chaplain to lord Burlington: In the year 1689, was made prebendary of Husthwaite, in the church of York, and was rector of Long Newton, in this county, in 1690, and built the parsonage house, which cost him 700l. afterwards had the rectory of Ryton, also in this county, and built an elegant house there, which cost him about 1200l. On taking this stall he resigned the prebend of Husthwaite; died on the 10th of March, 1726, and was buried in the eastern transept of this church
Inscribed on his tombstone "I. F. D. D. obiit. 10th Martij, 1726."—There is a long account of the Finney family in the Gentleman's Magazine for 1785 and 1786.
.
THOMAS SECKER, A. M. was collated the 3d of June, and installed, by proxy, the 16th, 1727. He was born in 1693, at Sibthorp, in Nottinghamshire; took the degree of doctor in physic at Leyden, in March 1721, and in April following, became a gentleman commoner of Exeter College, Oxford: Was ordained deacon, being bachelor of arts in 1722, in which year he was chaplain to bishop Talbot: On the 12th of February, in the same year, he was collated to Houghton-le-Spring: On the 4th of February, 1723, he took his master of arts degree; and on the 17th of June, 1727, was inducted to Ryton rectory; and in July, 1733, took his doctor's degree in law at Oxford, having in the preceding month of May been instituted to the rectory of St James's, Westminster, when he resigned Ryton. On the 19th of January, 1734, he was consecrated bishop of Bristol; and on the 13th of April, 1737, was translated to the See of Oxford: He was installed prebend of Purpool, and then dean of St Paul's, the 11th of December, 1750: Held this prebendary
in commendam
with his bishoprics, but resigned it, and the rectory of St. James, on his receiving the deanry: In April, 1758, he was confirmed archbishop of Canterbury; died on the 3d of August, 1768, aet. 75
He was the last prebendary promoted by bishop Talbot.—He obtained a dispensation for non-residence. Grey's Notes, MSS.—Whiston's Life, 438. He left 11,000l. to charitable uses.
; and was buried in the passage from the garden door of his palace to the north door of his church at Lambeth, and forbad any monument or epitaph to be placed for him any where.
THOMAS CHAPMAN, D. D. was presented by the king
sede vacante,
and installed the 1st of January, 1750. Was the son of John Chapman, of Billingham, in this county, where he was born
See his epitaph under title Billingham.
: Was educated at Richmond school, in Yorkshire; entered of Christ College, Cambridge, and became fellow thereof: In 1746 was master of Magdalen College, and on the 4th of November, 1748, was appointed vice chancellor: He was chaplain to king George II. In 1749, was rector of Kirby-over-blowers, in Yorkshire: In 1758, was appointed official to the dean and chapter of Durham; and on the 9th of June, 1760, departed this life at Cambridge, aet. 43, and was buried in the college chapel there
In 1750, he published an Essay on the Roman Senate, and also wrote two pamphlets on the university squabbles.
.
THOMAS BURTON, D. D. was installed the 18th of August, 1760, and was removed to the twelfth prebend: Was the son of Dr Thomas Burton, of Christ-Church, where he was student, and obtained a master of arts degree on the 28th of June, 1731: Was vicar of St Mary's, Oxford, and resigned for the rectory of Batsford, in Gloucestershire: Was prebendary of Gloucester, and archdeacon of St David's. He died the 17th of July, 1767, at Batsford.
GIDEON MURRAY, D. D. was installed the 20th of August, 1761: Was the second son of lord Elibank, in Scotland; was of Baliol College, Oxford, where, on the 6th of June, 1735, he obtained a master of arts degree: Was prebendary of Lincoln, and vicar of Gainsborough, in Lincolnshire, which he resigned, and afterwards had the rectory of Carlton, in Nottinghamshire. He died at London in the month of June, 1778.
RICHARD FAWCETT, D. D. was installed the 13th of July, 1778: He was the son of an eminent counsellor, recorder of the city of Durham, and had his education at the grammar school there: He was fellow of Corpus-Christi College, Oxford; had the rectory of Gateshead, and master of K. James's hospital there; chaplain in ordinary to king George II. and III. and vicar of St Nicholas', in Newcastle upon Tyne. He died at Durham, the 29th of April, 1782, and was interred in the cathedral, near to dean Cowper.
HENRY CHAYTOR, LL. D. second son of Henry Chaytor, of Croft, in the county of York,
Esq.
Had his education at Appleby school, in Westmoreland, and afterwards entered of Magdalen College, Cambridge, and became fellow of that society. In 1759, was presented by his father to the vicarage of Kirkby-Stephen, in Westmoreland: In 1767, took his doctor's degree: In 1773, presented to the vicarage of Catterick; and in 1778, to the rectory of Croft, by the king. He resigned Kirkby-Stephen, and had his stall conferred on him by the present bishop of Durham, the 24th of July, 1782, and was installed the same day.
PREBENDARIES OF THE FOURTH STALL
Lands, &c. assigned to the fourth stall.
Statutis.
Domus Manerij et firma de Witton Gilbert, Newhouses, and Underside.
 
 
 
Witton Gilbert estimat. per ann.
5
0
0
 
Newhouse
2
13
4
 
Underside
0
16
8
 
Capitulo antiq. solvend.
0
10
0
Ad. capituli
Decimae assignat.
 
 
 
 
Decimae Garbarum de South Pittington
2
0
0
 
Decimae Garbarum de Shandforth infra paroch. predict.
7
6
1
 
Decimae de South Sherburn, ib'm
3
10
0
 
Decimae de Haghouse, infra paroch. S. Oswaldi
1
6
8
.
WILLIAM BENNET, D. D. a monk of Durham on the foundation, the 12th of May, 1541. He was collated to Kellow vicarage the 4th of March, 1547, but resigned the same, together with his prebend, in the same year, and retired to Aycliff vicarage, where he died, and was buried the 20th of February, 1583
His great grandson was living at Aycliff in 1717, and was a tenant of this prebend. He was vicar of Aycliff to his death, (see Wilson's Reg. p. 19) and was succeeded by Robert Throgmorton, 1584. Dean Matthew's Reg.—
Grey's Notes, MSS.
One of the same name and time mentioned Ath. Oxon. vol. i. Fast. 57, 42.—
Mon. 153. Newe. Rep. vol. i. p. 146.
.
HENRY NAUNTON, A. M. rector of Egglescliff, in this county, was installed on the 3d of November, 1579. He was instituted to Gainford church, also in this county, the 27th of October, 1575, and was collated to Bedlington, in Northumberland, on the 14th of April, 1581. The time of his death is uncertain, he was buried in Durham cathedral, near to chancellor Swyfte.
EMANUEL BARNES, D. D. was removed from the fifth prebend to this stall, in the year 1607. He was a near relation to bishop Barnes, and was collated to the rectory of Houghton-le-Spring, on the 5th of March, 1583. In 1587, was rector of Wolsingham
Matthew's Reg. p. 172.—Ath. Oxon. vol. i.—He took his doctor in divinity degree at Basil, in Germany. Grey's Notes, MSS.
: He had the prebend of Fenton, in York cathedral, and the rectory of Craike; and died in the year 1614.
PETER SMART, A. M. was removed from the 6th prebend to this stall, the 10th of July. 1614. He was born in Warwickshire, a minister's son: Was educated at Westminster school, a batteler at Broadgate Hall, aet. 19, in the year 1588, in which year he was elected a student in Christ-Church, Oxford, and on the 9th of July, 1595, took the degree of master of arts: He was master of Durham school in 1598, was ordained deacon and priest the 30th of November, 1609, and was chaplain to bishop James, by whom he was collated the 30th December, 1609, to the sixth prebend in this church: In the year 1614, he had the rectory of Bolden, and was appointed master of Gateshead hospital, the 2d of March, 1612. Bishop James was instrumental in promoting him to be one of the high commissioners for the province of York. On the 7th of July, 1628, he preached in the cathedral that seditious sermon, whereof we have given an extract in the life of bishop Cosin, (vol. i. p. 534) and for which he was degraded and dispossessed of all his ecclesiastical preferments, and fined five hundred pounds, for the non-payment of which he suffered eleven years imprisonment in the King's-Bench, and at length was set at liberty by the House of Commons in 1640. He was in London the 31st of October, 1648, as appears by the date of one of his letters. On Dr Carr's death, who succeeded to this stall on his deprivation, he was restored to his prebend by the Lords, and lived to the year 1652, or near it, having passed his 82d year. At the like instance of the Lords, he was presented by the dean and chapter to Aycliff, the 20th of November, 1641, but refused; petitioning, it might be given to one Carwardine, who enjoyed it a considerable time
Ath. Oxon. vol. ii. p. 51—Diurnal occurrences of Parl. 1640, 1641, p. 21, 41. 48, 219.—Rushworth's Col. 3. part. vol. i. p. 41. Pryn's Canterb. Doom, p. 93, 353, 360, 481, 493, 530. Kennet's Hist. Eng. vol. iii.—Fuller's Ch. Hist. l. 11, p. 173.—Heylin's Examen. Hist. p. 284.—Collyer's Eccl. Hist. vol. ii. p. 798, 799.—Thoreshy's Ac. of Leeds, p. 539.—Nalson's Collect. vol. i. p. 518, 733, 734, 789. vol. ii. 406. Peck's Desid. Curiosa l. 9, "the chapter registers were sent for by the parliament and lost."—Heylin's Exam. Hist. 283, "A very particular account of him."—
Biographia Brit. vol. iii. p. 1475.
He was a witness against archbishop Land.
His famous libel is in few hands. London, printed by Jo. Hall, 1643.
The inscription begins,
Do, dico, consecro, hoc libellum poematum in 5 partes divisum, de superstitiosis ceremoniis, & idolatrio cultu ecclesiae Romanae ejusque filiarum, maxime Dunelmensis, mihi notissimae, doctissimis veris concionatoribus Londinensis, &c.
dated the 16th of February, 1643, aet. 76.
Prima pars.
"Enarrabo quibus Christo servitur in alto
"Fano Antichristi formis & ritibus: unum
"Quod nuper nostris, imitari cepit in annis.
"Templum Dunelmense, reformatore
Cosino,
&c.
"Nulla catachesis cathedrali auditur in Aede;
"Concio negligitur, legitur sacra pagina parce:
"Mystica vilescunt, ea sacramenta, dicatas
"Vestibus auratis, quae non celebrantur ad aras.
"Cum candelabris ibi polubra bina duobus.
"Atq. crucifixi stat servatoris imago.
"Nec panis solito benedictus frangitur usu,
"Christus ut instituit, christiq. ecclesia sanxit:
"Sed consecrato cultello in frusta secatur,
"Frusta minutatim morsus divisa per aequos.
"Ritus in auditus patribus puperq. repertus
"Audacis selice superstitione
Cosini.
This short extract shews the poet's vein. The whole poem contains 1490 verses.
In the library of Geo. Spearman,
Esq
of Eachwick.
.
THOMAS CARR, D. D. was installed the 30th of March, 1631. He was born in Yorkshire, and educated partly at Peterhouse, and translated to Jesus' College, Cambridge: Was instituted the 7th of April, 1632, to the vicarage of Aycliff: Was chaplain to Thomas earl of Strafford, and attended him on the scaffold when beheaded; by his interest the doctor was preferred to the rectory of Hugge
, in the county of York. He was sequestered, and went beyond seas in the time of the rebellion, and died at Leghorn after the Restoration, in his way to England, where he was honourably interred by the duke of Tuscany. Brown Willis says,
I met with the will of Dr Thomas Carr, dated the 13th of July, and proved the 13th of November, 1641, in which he gives his wife his effects at Aycliff, with orders to be buried in the Black Friars, London
Walker's Suff. Clergy, vol. ii. p. 20, 218.—Brown Willis, p. 266.
.
JOHN BARWICK, B. D. about 1642, was removed from the eighth prebend, but never installed: Was made dean of Durham
See page 161. Hilkiah Bedford wrote his life, 1721.
.
THOMAS SMITH, D. D. prebendary of Litchfield, was installed the 20th of July, 1661; and in 1668 was removed to the first stall
See page 172.
. Was presented also by king Charles II.
in majorem corroborationem tituli.
JOHN DURELL, D. D. was collated the 21st of April, and installed by proxy, the 1st of July, 1668. He was born in Jersey, was of Merton College, Oxford, retired to France, and took a master of arts degree at Caen, in Normandy: Was ordained at Paris, by the bishop of Galloway, at the chapel of the English resident: In the year 1661, he was one of the French preachers in the Savoy chapel: In 1663, was made prebendary of Northaulton, in the church of Sarum, and chaplain to the king; in the next year, was made prebendary of Windsor, and on the 26th of July, 1677, was appointed dean there, and had the rectory of Witney, in the county of Oxford. He died on the 8th of July, 1683, aet. 58, and was buried at Windsor. His wife translated the Whole Duty of Man into French. His son was a brigadier general and governor of Dunkirk
Ath. Oxon. vol. ii. p. 731. Collier's Supplement.
.
JOHN MONTAGUE, D. D. was installed the 10th of November, 1683: Was master of Trinity College, Cambridge, in 1683, which he resigned, and was made master of Sherburn hospital; in 1692, was removed to the eleventh prebend; and afterwards, in 1699, made dean of Durham
See page 169. Anno 1686. He was appointed lord Crew's commissary for visiting this chapter, and determining an appeal made to him by two of the body; accordingly he sat as such in the chapter-house, the 2
th of July, and also the 19th of November following, when he determined the difference by the bishop's directions.
.
THEOPHILUS PICKERING, D. D. was installed by proxy, the 3d of June, 1692. He was the 7th son of Sir Gilbert Pickering, of Tichmarsh, in the county of Northampton, baronet, and born the 10th of May, 1663: Was fellow of Sidney College, Cambridge, 1687; chaplain to lord Crew, the 13th of November, 1690; rector of Gateshead, the 5th of December, 1695, and of Sedgefield, the 31st of August, 1705, where he died the 20th of March, 1710, and was interred in the chancel of that church
He was the seventh son of Sir Gilbert, who was a baronet of Nova Scotia; his mother was Elizabeth Montague, sister to the first earl of Sandwich.—Sir Gilbert is named one of the judges of king Charles I. (Rush Col. vol. ii. p. 1380,) though I do not find he acted.—Stat. 12.
ar. 2. c. 11. If Sir Gilbert Pickering accept of or exercise any place or employment in England, after the 1st of September, 166
, he is to be excepted out of the act of indemnity. He kept a dissenting minister.—The doctor left 300l. for the endowment of a charity school at Gateshead. In 1708, he gave the organ to Sedgefield church, which, with the clock and gallery, cost him 500l.—He altered and improved his prebendal and parsonage houses and gardens: He expended the whole income of his preferments and private fortune, which was 1700l. a year, in acts of hospitality, generosity, and charity. His only sister Elizabeth, married John Creed, of Oundle,
Esq
and was mother to major Creed, who was slain at the battle of Blenheim. Antiq. St Peter's, Westm. 253.
For his epitaph, see Sedgefield in the sequel.
. He quitted this prebend for the eleventh stall.
PHILIP FALLE, A. M. was installed the 1st of February, 1699: Was born in the island of Jersey, of which he wrote the history, in 1694, much quoted by bishop Gibson, and greatly enlarged and reprinted in 1734. He was a commoner of Exeter College, in Michaelmas term, 1669, aged 14; and took a master of arts degree at Albion-hall, the 8th of July, 1676: Was minister of St Saviour's, in Jersey, and rector of Shenley, in Hertfordshire, at which latter place he built an elegant house, which cost him 1000l. At the Revolution, he was sent by the states of the island of Jersey to king William and queen Mary, and by them was recommended to a prebend in Durham. The golden prebend was then vacant; but the bishop removed Dr Pickering to it, and gave Dr Falle this stall, of which he afterwards complained. The repairing of the prebendal house cost him 200l. He died at Shenley, in the year 1742, aet. 87, and left his excellent library, (except a collection of sacred music, which he gave to the library at Durham) to the island of Jersey
Ath. Oxon. vol. ii. p. 962.
.
JAMES GISBURN, A. M. was collated the 22d of May, 1742, and installed the 21st of July following. He was born at Loughborough, in Leicestershire; was of Jesus' College, Cambridge, and afterwards obtained a fellowship in Queen's College. He had the rectory of Stavely, in Derbyshire, by the gift of lord James Cavendish; and departed this life on the 7th of September, 1759, aet. 72.
JAMES DOUGLAS, D. D. was installed the 11th of October, 1659, being removed from the fifth stall. He was by birth a Scotchman, of the Tiviotdale family; was educated at Eton, and an exhibitioner of Baliol College, Oxford: Had a small living near Bridgewater; afterwards was vicar of Kellow, 1735, and rector of Long Newton, 1742, which he resigned for this prebend, and the rectory of Great Stainton, in this county; was also curate of Witton Gilbert. He departed this life on the 29th of July, 1780, and was interred in the eastern transept of Durham cathedral.
FRANCIS EGERTON, A. M. second son of the present bishop of Durham, was installed the 13th of November, 1780. He was made rector of Whitchurch in February, 1781.
PREBENDARIES OF THE FIFTH STALL
Lands, &c. assigned to the fifth stall.
Stat.
Tertia pars Domus Manerii & Parci de Muggleswick
8
7
9½
 
Capitulo antiq. solvend.
0
7
9½
Act. capit.
Decimae assignat.
 
 
 
 
Decimae Garbarum Poeni & Canab. de Shinkliff
10
0
0
 
Omnes Decimae de Old Durham, infra
andem parochiam
4
3
4
N. B. Grey's Notes, MSS. Dr Ellison, who had this stall, saith he only paid to the chapter 22l. 11s. 1½d.
Particulars in receiver's book.
Lib. Recept. solvantur hodie capitulo pro decimis
 
 
 
 
 
 
Garbarum de Shinkliff
9
6
0
10
0
0
Pro decimis Foeni
0
9
0
10
0
0
Pro decimis Canab.
0
5
0
10
0
0
Pro decimis Foeni & Garbarum de Old Durham
3
13
4
4
3
4
Pro decimis Lanae et Agnorum & aliis minutis D.
0
10
0
4
3
4
.
WILLIAM TODD, D. D. by the foundation the 12th of May, 1541. He was admitted doctor at Oxford, the 13th of April, 1537; was vicar of Northallerton, in the county of York, 1553, and resigned the same the 5th of September, 1561: Was also archdeacon of Bedford: He was deprived of this prebend in the year 1567, for which no reason appears in the authorities before us
Brown Willis, 267.—Skynners Reg. 140.—Strype Eliz p. 290, 318. Mon. 152.—
Ath. Oxon. vol. i. p. 60.
Quere. If not deprived for non-conformity, it being so many years after the queen's accession.
.
RALPH LEVER, A. M. was collated the 14th of October, and installed the 17th, 1567. He was admitted scholar in King's College, Cambridge, from Eton school, 1558, and took the degree of doctor in divinity, in St John's College, 1577: Was tutor to Walter earl of Essex, in 1564; was collated to Washington in 1565, and to the archdeaconry of Northumberland, the 21st of August, 1566, which he resigned in 1573: He was collated to the rectory of Stanhope, the 17th of November, 1575, and to Sherburn hospital, the 16th of July, 1577: Was chaplain to bishop Pilkington, and one of the commissaries for the dean and chapter in the consistory, upon the vacancy of the See, by the death of that prelate. He was a troublesome non-conformist, and very disobedient to his patron in trifles and srivolous matters. He died in 1585
Reg. Whittingham, p. 238.
He moved in convocation, 1562, to have the canon law regulated. Strype 3 Eliz c. 31. p. 318. His assertions about the canon law at large. Strype, Ann. vol. i. p. 357.—
Willis's Cath. 267.
.
EMANUEL BARNES, D. D. was installed the 29th of July, 1585. He was presented to this prebend by Robert Tailbois, gentleman, patron
inter alios pro hac vice tantum,
the 26th of July, 1585, and was admitted by the bishop on the 27th: Was removed to the fourth stall
See page 183.
.
JOHN CALFHILL, A. M. was presented on the resignation of Barnes. He was chaplain to bishop Matthew, and was inducted to Redmarshall, in this county, in July, 1599, where he died, and was buried in 1619. By the register of dean James, it appears that Henry Naunton was vicar of Bedlington, and that Thomas Colmore was presented to that vicarage by the dean and chapter, the 23d of August, 1603; therefore it is probable, that Barnes succeeded Naunton in the 4th stall that year, and consequently Calfhill succeeded Barnes in this stall the same year
Doctor Sharp saith, that it was certain Calshill was prebendary at the election of bishop James, 1606.—
Grey's Notes, MSS.
JOHN CRADOCK, A. M. was collated tho 7th of August, and installed the 18th, 1619. He was collated to the archdeaconry of Northumberland in the year 1619, and resigned it the 6th of August the same year, being appointed the bishop's spiritual chancellor, and vicar general that day. Was presented to Northallerton, the 23d of February, 1624, and had the rectory of Gainford, in this county, and vicarage of Woodhorn, in Northumberland, at which latter place he died in 1627, and was buried in the church there. There was a complaint against him in parliament for extortion
Journal of the House of Commons, vol. i. f. 709. b. 9.
. He died by poison, for which his wife was accused and tried, but was acquitted
He was the father of Sir Jo. Cradock, commissary of Richmond.
.
ELEAZAR DUNCAN, B. D. was installed the 8th of January, 1627. He was of Pembroke Hall, Cambridge; had a fellowship, and, in 1633, obtained a degree of doctor in divinity. He was ordained deacon by bishop Laud, the 13th of March, 1624
Laud's Diary. p. 15.
; and received priest's orders from bishop Neile, the 24th of September, 1626, whose chaplain he was. On the 13th of November, 1629, was installed a prebendary of Winchester; on the 1st of May, 1640, prebendary of Knaresborough, in York cathedral; and on the 10th of April, 1633, was collated to the rectory of Haughton, near Darlington, in this county. He was chaplain to king Charles I. and died in exile, 1649 or 1650
He writ
de adoratione Dei versus altare,
which was his
determ.
for doctor's degree, the 15th of March, 16
3. It was printed 1661, with Dr Richard Watson's preface.
He died in exile, according to some in 1642.
Walker's Suff. Clergy, vol. ii. p. 20. 84. — Kennet's Reg. 489, his character
.
THOMAS DALTON, D. D. was promoted by king Charles II. and installed the 2d of November, 1660: Was rector of Berwick, in Elmet, in the county of York, and of Dallam, in the diocese of Ely. He resigned this prebend.
THOMAS CARTWRIGHT, D. D. on Dalton's resignation, was collated the 6th of November, 1672, by king Charles II. the See being vacant, and was installed the 15th of the same month. He was the son of Thomas Cartwright, of Broxwood, in Essex, and was born at Northampton, the 1st of September, 1634: Was first of Magdalen College, then of Queen's College, Oxford; had the vicarage of Walthamstow, in Essex; was preacher of Mary Magdalen, in Milk-street, London; vicar of Barking, in Essex; minister of St Thomas the Apostle, London; a prebendary of Westminster, and of Twiford, in St Paul's; also prebendary of Shalford, in Wells; chaplain in ordinary to the king, and dean of Ripon. He was ecclesiastical commissioner, and one of the delegates to enquire into the affairs of Magdalen College. To conclude all his ecclesiastical promotions, in the year 1686, he was consecrated bishop of Chester. At the Revolution he fled into France, and came with king James into Ireland, where he departed this life on the 15th of April, 1689, at the city of Dublin, aet. 55
Ath. Oxon. vol. ii. p. 829.— Newcourt's Rep. vol. i. p. 218.—Contin. Supplem. to Collier's Dictionary.
He made an agreement for the tithe of Old Durham for his life, at a rent which continued till 1713.— He preached at St Paul's the 5th of September, 1658, on Gen. iii. 9.—He preached at Ripon, the 6th of February, 1685. upon king James Hd's inauguration, on 1 Kings, viii. 66, which Dr Battely (afterwards archdeacon of Canterbury) refused to licence, and Sir J. Jennings went on purpose to return Dr Battely thanks for such refusal. Grey's Notes, MSS.
, and was interred in Christ-Church.
CONSTANS JESSOP, D. D. was installed the 15th of November, 1686, descended from Constantine Jessop, a remarkable presbyterian preacher: On the 27th of June, 1666, he obtained a degree of master of arts in Magdalen College, Oxford, and on the 4th of June, 1685, that of bachelor and doctor in divinity. He had the rectory of Brington, in the county of Northampton, where he died, and was interred, on the 10th of March, 1695, aet. 55
Laetam hic praestolatur resurrectionem
CONSTANS JESSOP, S. T. P.
Ecclesiae Dunelmensis prebendarius,
Et hujus ecclesiae rector;
Caetera sama dabit,
Sed nec monumento perenniori carebit
Vir desideratissimus;
Quoad usque successores gratos
Aedes rectoris sustentare non piguerit,
Quas elegantissimas, modestas tamen,
(Animi sui quam simillimas!)
Propriis sumptibus condidit,
Et ecclesiae dicavit:
Decubuit 10o. Martij
An. Dom. 1695, aetat. suae 55.
Willis Cath.
.
JOHN BOWES, D. D. was installed the 21st of April, 1696, and was removed to the first stall
See page 173.
.
NATHANIEL ELLISON, D. D. was collated the 30th of September, and installed the 1st of October, 1712: Was of Edmund's-hall, Oxford, and from thence chosen fellow of Corpus-Christi College; on the 22d of February, 1678, he obtained the degree of master of arts; and on the 7th of May, 1702, that of bachelor and doctor in divinity: Was made archdeacon of Stafford, the 14th of July, 1682
Of Litchfield, and prebend of Litchfield. Ath. Oxon. vol. ii. s. 209.
, collated to the vicarage of Newcastle, 1694, and rector of Whitburn, 1704. He died at Newcastle, in May 1721, aet. 63, and was interred in St Nicholas' church there
He raised the tithes of Old Durham from 13l. 6d. 8d. to 20l. clear of all taxes, anno 1714, and let a lease of them during his own life.
He collected a valuable library, which he left to his eldest son, except a few books, which he gave to the libraries of the dean and chapter of Durham, and St Nicholas', Newcastle.
Grey's Notes, MSS.
.
THOMAS MANGEY, LL. D. was installed the 20th of May, 1721, and removed to the first stall
See page 173.
.
JONATHAN HALL, A. M. afterwards D. D. was installed the 21st of January, 1722. He was the son of John Hall, a draper and alderman of Durham: Was a fellow of St John's College, Cambridge, where, from his mean principles, he became disagreeable to the society, and, in order to get rid of his company, they presented him to the rectory of Cockfield, in the county of Suffolk: He was chaplain to the lord Cadogan, when ambassador to the States-General, and chaplain to the garrison at Berwick. He died, after a long illness, on the 12th of June, 1743, and was privately interred in the eastern transept of this cathedral, without any monument, though it is said he left his nephew 20,000l.
ROBERT STILLINGFLEET, A. M. afterwards D. D. was installed the 20th of July, 1743, was the son of Dr Stillingfleet, dean of Worcester, and grandson of the great bishop Stillingfleet: Was of Wadham College, Oxford, where he took a master of arts degree, the 1st of July, 1729, and bachelor and doctor in divinity the 6th of May, 1748: He was chaplain to bishop Talbot, and afterwards to bishop Chandler: He was collated, in 1731, to the rectory of Gateshead, to Ryton in 1732, and was made master of Sherburn hospital in 1738, and held the same, with this prebend, to the time of his death, which happened at Bristol, on the 3d of August, 1759
He held Bishop-Weremouth after the death of Mr Lawrence, till Mr Wadham Chandler was of age to take it.
Grey's Notes, MSS.
.
JAMES DOUGLAS was installed the 17th of August, 1759, and was removed to the fourth stall
See page 186.
.
SAMUEL TERRICK, A. M. installed the 8th of December, 1759. He was son of Samuel Terrick, prebendary of York, the elder brother of bishop Terrick, and was of Clare Hall, Cambridge. He died suddenly at Stilton, on the 8th of August, 1761, aet. 55, and was buried at Peterborough.
JOHN MOORE, A. M. afterwards D. D. was installed by proxy, the 26th of September, 1761. He was fellow of Pembroke College, Oxford, where, on the 28th of June, 1751, he took a master of arts degree; in 1763, was made canon of Christ-Church, where he took the degrees of bachelor and doctor in divinity, the 1st of July, 1763: Was chaplain to his majesty king Geo. III.; in 1771, he was appointed dean of Canterbury; and consecrated bishop of Bangor, in 1775. In 1783, he was advanced to the Metropolitan See of Canterbury, which he now enjoys.
THOMAS FOTHERGILL, D. D. provost of Queen's College, Oxford, was installed the 27th of May, 1775, on Dr Moore's resignation.
PREBENDARIES OF THE SIXTH STALL
Lands assigned to the sixth stall.
Statutis.
Tertia pars Domus manerij & Parci de Mugleswic
8
7
9½
 
Capitulo antiq. solvend
 
7
9½
Act. capit.
 
 
 
 
 
Decimae Garbarum villae de Hesledon una cum decimis manerij ib.
8
13
4
 
Decimae de Sherraton ibidem
4
0
0
 
Decimae de Dalton, infra parochiam de Dalton
2
0
0
.
STEPHEN MARLEYE, B. D. a monk of Durham, appointed on the foundation, the 12th of May, 1541. He was sub-prior, and master of the frater-house, at the dissolution. The place allotted for his lodging was the refectory of the almerey children, north of the abbey gates, which he altered into a dwelling-house. He was deprived in the year 1572, but no reason appears.
PETER SHAWE, A. M. was installed the 12th of August, 1572,—when he died is uncertain
In the register of installment of Hugh Broughton, 1578, in the 10th stall, those of the chapter then present were dean Whittington, R. Swift, L. Pilkington, Francis Bunny, Peter Shaw, G. Cliff, and R. Fawcit. He is not mentioned in the register books after 1607, at which time he is named among the prebendaries who answered to bishop Matthew's citation in the chapter-house.
.
WILLIAM SELBY, A. M. was collated on the 12th of July, 1608. In 1607, he was presented by the chapter to the vicarage of Berwick upon Tweed, and on the 1st of March, 1608, to the vicarage of Kirk Merrington,—when he died is uncertain.
PETER SMART, A. M. was collated the 30th of December, 1609. He was removed to the fourth stall
See page 183.
.
ROBERT COOK, A. M. and afterwards D. D. was collated the 20th of July, 1614. He was the son of William Cook, of Beeston, in the parish of Leeds, and was baptized there the 23d of July, 1550: Was a student of Brazen-Nose College, and elected probat fellow in 1572: In 1576, he obtained the degree of master of arts; was made proctor of the university in 1582, and took a bachelor in divinity's degree in 1584. In June 1590, he resigned his fellowship, and was instituted to the vicarage of Leeds in December following: Was much esteemed as a learned man, and pious preacher: In January, 1614, he died at Leeds, and was interred at St Peter's church there
He was author of
Censura Patrum,
and a good antiquary. Grey's Notes, MSS.—Ath. Oxon. vol. i. p. 396.—Thoresby's Leeds, 210.—Dr James in his
Treat. of Corruption of Fathers,
p. 397, gives him an excellent character.
.
FERDINANDO MOORCROFT, A. M. was collated the 6th of January, 1614: Was master of Gretham hospital, in this county, which he resigned on his removal to the eleventh stall, the 13th of July, 1619: On the 6th of November, 1608, he was collated to Stanhope, and, in 1625, to Heighington; died about the year 1641, and was buried at Goswick, in the county of Lancaster
The first time he is mentioned in the register is 1609, as attesting an instrument of bishop James. June 1617, mentioned as one of the three commissioners for inthronization, &c. appointed by bishop Neile, and in 1618, at a visitation of Neile's.
.
DANIEL BIRKHEAD, D. D. collated the 14th of July, 1619; was removed the 3d of August, 1620, to the 10th stall. He had the rectory of Winston; in 1610, was collated to Egglescliff; died in 1624, and was interred in the cathedral at Durham, on the 27th of November
Monumenta quisquis & semesa marmora.
Viator oculis curiosis aspicis
Et literarum validae notas
Hic siste gradus & minore taedio
Perdisce quod respicere te interest tua
Et vile marmor claudit exemplum
Birkheadus hic sepultus est
Isto scpulero dives urna conditur
Caeli minister fidus, interpres Dei
Scientiarum viva dum vixit domus
Honestitudo sed prioris saeculi
Sublime acumen sed modeste sentiens
Infastuosum judicium, sed perspicax
Docti lepores innocens prudentia,
Et tot per annos vitae inoffensus tenor,
Haec intus sunt omnia
Hoc te viator scire refert si quidem
Magister vitae mortuorum memoria est.
N. B. He occurs in this stall at the primary visitation of bishop Neile, the 21st of June, 1618, which is a year sooner than the date in the text.
.
GABRIEL CLARKE, A. M. was installed the 5th of August, 1620, and removed to the third stall the 30th of July, 1623
See page 171 and 180.
.
JOHN ROBSON, A. M. was installed the 1st of August, 1620. He was rector of Morpeth in 1611; was instituted to the rectory of Whalton, in Northumberland, the 1st of June, 1615; was returned a member in parliament for Morpeth, in the third parliament of king James I. but not allowed to sit, as being in holy orders: He was one of the chapter proxies to the convocation held at York in May, 1625: He was buried in Durham cathedral in 1645
Willis, 269, says he was vicar of Hart and Hartlepool,—an error; there was another of the same name curate of Auckland, in queen Elizabeth's reign.—Walker makes him to have been archdeacon of Northumberland. This prebendal house was much ruined in the late times.
.
RICHARD WRENCH, B. D. was collated about the 14th of February, 1645, by bishop Morton, but not installed for some years, on account of the war: Was born in the city of Chester; chaplain to bishop Morton, and fellow of St John's College, Cambridge, from whence he was ejected by the earl of Manchester. Bishop Cosin's mandate to induct him was dated the 18th of March, 1660, and his installation on the 20th of that month. He was instituted to Heighington vicarage, the 25th of November, 1661; was collated to Boldon the 16th of October, 1665; departed this life on the 26th October, 1675, and buried in this cathedral
He is said in the register to have been first collated by bishop Morton on Maxton's death. Query.
He was buried near the entrance into the choir. His widow married Dr Thomas Smith, prebendary of the first stall, afterwards dean and bishop of Carlisle.
Walker's Suff. Clergy, part ii. p. 149. Kennet's Reg. 524.
M. S. RICHARDUS WRENCH, S. T. B. Hujus ecclesiae dum vixit: Canonicus Placide hic in Domino Requiescit. Obiit xxvj die Octobris Anno Dom. MDCLXXV. ANNA ejus relicta Maerens posuit.
.
RICHARD KNIGHTLEY, A. M. was installed by proxy, the 17th of November, 1675, and was removed to the seventh stall. He was son of Thomas Knightley, rector of Byfield, in the county of Northampton; had the livings of Charwelton and Aston, the latter of which he resigned on the death of his father, 1688, when he was presented to Byfield, where he died the 17th of September, 1695, aet. 59, and was interred there
Ath. Oxon. 2 fo. 20.—
Bridges' Hist. Northampton, p. 116.
In Byfield church, against the south wall, on a white marble compartment, (under the arms of Knightley impaling, gules, a lion ramp. argent) is the following inscription:
Hic
Moriture lector,
Subter sepulchrale marmor.
Jam juxta parentes accumbit
(Una omnes resurgent)
Cognata compositus terra & secura simul requie
Nominis non ita magni,
Sed quod majus est, honesti,
RICHARDUS KNIGHTLEY, sacerdos,
Filius Thomae Knightley hujusce olim gregis
Pastoris perdiú fidelis.
Ipse tamen, favente Deo & adspirante semper coeptis,
In sacram Charwelton curam institutus prius
Et solenniter inductus
A reverendo in Christo Patre ac nob. D. D.
NAT. CREW,
Dignissimo Dunelmensi praesule,
Prebendae ejusdem ecclesiae honores humilimè accepit,
Et in hâc aede successit demum patri,
Patri pietate quam simillimus,
Quique aliis usque majora meruisse visus est,
Sibi semper minus.
His itaque officiis egregiè pariter perfunctus,
Et laboribus plusquam annis gravis,
Severiore correptus morbo, morti citius concessit,
Melioris vitae securus,
Sep. 17o . Ao . 1695. Aetat. suae 59.
.
JOHN MORTON, D. D. was installed November 29, 1676: He moved from the seventh to this stall, the revenue of which is much inferior, to oblige bishop Morton, who wished to place his chaplain, Knightley, therein: Was of Lincoln College, where he took the degrees of master of arts the 27th of June, 1667; bachelor of divinity, the 11th of November, 1674; and doctor in divinity, by diploma, the 6th of April, 1692. He was made rector of Boldon upon Mr Wrench's death, in 1676, and afterwards had Egglescliff. In October, 1685, was collated to the archdeaconry of Northumberland, and to the rectory of Sedgefield, in 1711, where he died, the 16th of November, 1722, and was interred
See Sedgefield church for his epitaph.
His prebendal house cost him 600l. and he recovered of his predecessor 80l. for dilapidations. His daughter Dulcibella, the only child that survived him, was married to William Davison, of Beamish,
Esq
Morton, the last male of that family, being called after this lady's family name.
. He built his prebendal house whilst in the twelfth stall, to which he was removed in 1685; he also built the parsonage house at Egglescliff, and made great improvements at Sedgefield. In 1685, there was a controversy between him and Sir George Wheler, concerning precedency; the question being, whether the seniority was to be accounted from admission to any new stall, or admission to the church and chapter by the first installment; and the bishop, as visitor, determined in favour of Dr Morton.
FITZHERBERT ADAMS, D. D. was installed the 11th of August, 1685; was removed to the tenth stall in 1695; and from that to the eleventh, in 1711: Was of Lincoln College, Oxford, where he took the degree of master of arts in June, 1675; bachelor in divinity, the 2d of January, 1682; and doctor in divinity, the 3d of July, 1685: Was inducted to Washington rectory, the 29th of September, 1683, and elected rector of Lincoln College, the 2d of May, 1685. Was vice chancellor of Oxford in 1695, where he departed this life, the 17th of June, 1719, and was interred in All-Saints' church, Oxford. He received 1500l. for renewing the lease of Twiford, and laid out that sum in beautifying the chapel of Lincoln College, and the rector's lodging: Was a benefactor to All-Hallows' church, and left 200l. to purchase a parsonage house: He left his library to the college
Ath. Oxon. part ii. 785. f. 227.—
Willis's Cath. 274.
M. S.
Fitzherbert Adams, S. T P. coll. Lincoln per annos 34 rector
Quem satis commendabant oris gestusq. decor & majestas
Plus tamen animi dotes & antiqua morum simplicitas,
Delicata cura et eleganti nitore perpolita.
Omnium placendi artium mirifice solers, magnatum gratiae licet,
Non captator, facilè compos suit Nathan. Dom. Crew, ornatissimo
Praesuli Dunelm. imprimis charus qui prebendae Dunelm.
Dignitate auxit, illumque et colleg. cui prae
rat
Quotidianis beneficiis sovit & accumulavit.
Obiit 27 Junij, A. D. 1719, et aetatis suae 68.
.
HENRY DOBSON, D. D. was installed the 8th of June, 1695. He was collated to the rectory of Boldon in 1692; was of Magdalen College, where, on the 3d of June, 1677, he took a master of arts degree; bachelor in divinity the 17th of December, 1689; and doctor in divinity the 23d of January, 1693: He died at London, the 23d of March, 1717, aet. 67, and was buried in St Margaret's church-yard, Westminster.
JOHN DOLBEN, D. D. was installed the 17th of April, 1718, and removed to the eleventh stall. He was the grandson of archbishop Dolben, and son of Sir Gilbert Dolben, baronet
Sir Gilbert was a judge in Ireland in queen Ann's reign. He was vice president of the society of clergymen's sons, and left thereto 500l.
. Was born at Bishop Thorpe, near York; received the first rudiments of literature at Westminster school, from whence he was removed to Christ-Church, Oxford, where he took the degree of master of arts on the 8th of July, 1707, and bachelor and doctor in divinity the 6th of July, 1717. He was sub-dean of the Chapel Royal in the reign of queen Anne, and had the rectory of Burton Latimers, and vicarage of Fyndon, in the county of Northampton. On the death of his father, in October, 1722, he succeeded to the baronetage and estates; departed this life at Durham on the 21st of November, 1756, aet. 73, and was interred at Fyndon
He wrote a character of Dr Sibthorp formerly parson of Burton Latymers. Kennet's Reg. 669.—When sub dean of Durham, he addressed bishop Butler in a speech, as is customary at his first coming to the diocese, the 28th of June, 1751.—The living of Fyndon he augmented greatly, by granting tithes to it. He was chosen visitor of Baliol College, Oxon, by the fellows, a privilege which no other college in Oxford or Cambridge enjoys. There is a good portrait of Sir John, done in mezzotinto, by Faber, after a painting by Taylor.
.
WILLIAM WATS, D. D. was installed on the 18th of August, 1719. He was born at Barnshall, in the county of York, and was fellow of Lincoln College, Oxford, where, on the 17th of June, 1708, he took the degree of master of arts; on the 11th of July, 1719, that of bachelor in divinity; and, on the 21st of October following, of doctor in divinity; and was a noted tutor in his college: In 1721, he was collated to the rectory of Wolsingham: Died at Durham on the 5th of February, 1736, aet. 50, and was buried at the West end of the nave of Durham cathedral, below the font
Bishop Crew recommended Dr Lupton (preb. 9.) to succeed Dr Adams, as rector of Lincoln College, Oxon; and Mr Wats was the only fellow who voted for him, for which the bishop gave him this prebend, and the rectory of Wollingham. Grey's Notes, MSS.
M. S.
GULIELMI WATS, S. T. P.
Qui in villâ de Barns Hall in agro Eboracensi natus,
Oxonij ingenuis artibus innutritus,
Et in numerum sociorum coll. Lincolniensis cooptatus,
Per annos complures juventuti
Academicá literaturâ eradiendae,
Et disciplinâ sormandae,
Sedulo & seliciter incubuit.
Exinde tandem a Domino Dom. Crew,
De quo optimè jam in collegio promeruerat Evocatus,
Ut primo in hanc ecclesiam ascisceretur,
Dein paroeciae de Wolsingham praeesset,
Pastorem se praestitit sidum, benignum, pacificum,
anonicum vero tum dignitati muneris, quam oneri parem
Quippe qui sibi assiduo studio comparasset
Quaecunq. vel faciunt theologum vel ornant
Erat animo constanti et invicto licet valetudine
Quam pro spectabili corporis compage infirmiori:
Improborum censor impavidus, bonorum promptus fautor,
A recto, quatenus innotuit neutiquam dimovendus,
Apostolicae veritatis assertor.
Ecclesiae Anglicanae jurium vindex, rituum observans.
Hisce virtutibus
Licet ipse satis, adhuc superstes, memoriae suae consuluerit,
Non sustinuit tamen vidua ejus moestissima
Quin hoc marmor, aliquod saltem elogium optimi mariti praeferens,
In amoris mutui testimonium poni curaret.
Obiit nonis Februarij, Anno Dom. MDCCXXXVI. Aetat. L.
Conduntur reliquiae post parietem
Composed by Dr Secker, preb. of Durham, and bishop of Bristol.
.
.
HENRY BLAND, A. M. was installed August 2, 1737. He was the eldest son of Henry Bland, dean of this church; received the first rudiments of literature at Eton, from whence he was removed to Christ-Church College, Oxford; admitted a gentleman commoner, and took a bachelor of arts degree; he obtained an honorary degree of master of arts at Cambridge; and in 1747; a degree of doctor in divinity. On the 23d of August, 1735, he was inducted to Washington, and also held the rectory of Bishop Weremouth. He was formerly beneficed in Lincoln. Died at his prebendal house on the 7th of May, 1768, aet. 64, and was interred in the eastern transept of this cathedral
H. S. E.
HENRICUS BLAND, S. T. P.
Henrici Bland, S. T. P
Hujus ecclesiae nuper decani
Filius natu maximus
Vir excellenti ingenio praeditus
Et, quod eo patre natum, eodem praeceptore institutum, decuit,
Eximie eruditus:
A reverendo admodum patre
Edwardo Chandler, episcopo Dunelmensi,
Ecclesiarum de Washington & Weremouth episcopi
Rector constitutus A. D. MDCCXXXVto.
Ad VItum in hac ecclesia canonicatum
Ab eodem promotus A. D. MDCCXXXVII•o.
Quibus muneribus pro virili exequendis
Quod reliquum erat vitae impendit,
Obiit VIImo. die Maij. A. D. MDCCLXVIIIvo.
Aetatis suae LXVto.
Fratri carissimo benemerenti
Sorores superstites
Posuerunt
Composed by Dr Lowth, preb. of Durham, and bishop of Oxford, and now bishop of London.
.
.
CHARLES WESTON, A. M. was installed the 2d of August, 1768, being removed from the ninth stall: Was a grandson of the bishop of Exeter, and son of Edward Weston, of the city of Lincoln,
Esq
writer of the Gazette for many years, and one of the chief clerks of the signet office: Was a student of Christ-Church, and took a master of arts degree on the 18th of April, 1755: Rector of Thirfield, in the county of Hertford.
PREBENDARIES OF THE SEVENTH STALL
Lands, &c. assigned to the seventh stall.
Statutis.
Domus & terrae Dominicales manerij de Finkalo cum Molendino & Stagno ibidem vocat. le Dam.
9
18
8
 
Capitulo antiq. solvend.
1
19
8
Act. capituli
Decimae Garbarum de Harton, infra paroch. de Jarrow
9
10
0
 
Decimae de Walsend infra candem
3
13
4
 
Decimae de Wardly et Felling infra candem
1
0
6
 
Solvit canon. 7mus singulis annis pro quart. part. nov. improv.
0
5
0
.
ROBERT DALTON, B. D. appointed on the foundation, the 12th of May, 1541. In the year 1560, he was deprived for recusancy, and committed to the custody of lord Dacres, of the north; was instituted to Billingham in 1547; and esteemed rich, but arrogant and unlettered. The place allotted to him, at the suppression of the convent, was the granary for wheat and malt, which he converted into a handsome dwelling.
THOMAS SAMPSON was installed the 9th of September, 1560, by proxy, at which time he had no degree. He was presented by queen Elizabeth, and admitted, by her commissioners for spiritualties,
sede vacante:
Was one of those concerned in translating the Bible. He was dean of Chichester, 1552; rector of All Hallows', Breadstreet; and made dean of Christ-Church, Oxford, 1561, of which he was deprived in 1565; afterwards was made master of Wigstan's hospital, in Leicester, where he died the 9th of April, 1589, and was buried
Memoriae & honori Thomae Sampson, theologi; hierarchiae Romanae, papaliumq. rituum hostis acerrimi; sinceritatis evangelicae assertoris constantissimi; hujus hospitalis per 21 annos custodis fidelis; de republica Christiana optime meriti, patr. chariss. hoc monumentum posuerunt Johannes & Nathanael filii.
. He was succeeded by
WILLIAM BIRCH, A. M. installed the 4th of July, 1562: Was rector of Gateshead, and deprived for non-conformity, 1567
Reg. Skynner, p. 175. ib. 160. ib. 231.
. He was warden of Manchester College, 1560; rector of Stanhope, the 25th of August, 1564; and also of Gateshead.
LEONARD PILKINGTON, D. D. was collated the 1st of August, and installed the 6th of September, 1567: He was brother to the bishop and Joseph Pilkington, and rector of Middleton, the 20th of March, 1560: Was admitted master of St John's College, Cambridge, the 19th of October, 1561, which he resigned in 1562; was regius professor of divinity there in 1561; was rector of Whitburn, where he built the house now Sir Hedworth Williamson's, and the great parsonage barn. In 1592 he was treasurer of this church
D. Skynner's Reg. d. 135, 239.—Fuller's Hist. Camb. p. 95.—Monum. p. 153.—Query when he died.— by the Register
appears, Marm. Blakiston had this stall, Ao 1601. Bishop Matthew's visitation.
.
MARMADUKE BLAKISTON, A. M. was the son of J. Blakiston, of Blakiston,
Esq
was installed in 1601, and was vicar of Woodhorne, and treasurer of this church in 1606: On the 14th of October, 1585, was collated to Redmarshall; and in July, 1599, to Sedgefield: On the 25th of November, 1615, was collated to the archdeaconry of the East-Riding of Yorkshire; and the 6th of March, 1617, was installed prebendary of Wistow, in York cathedral. In 1623, he resigned his stall at York in favour of his son, Thomas Blakiston; in 1625, he did the same touching his archdeaconry, in favour of J. Cosin, afterwards bishop, who married his daughter
Ath. Oxon. vol. i. f. 125.
; and in 1631, he resigned this prebend and Sedgefield, in favour of his son, Robert Blakiston. He died at Newton, near Durham, the family seat, and was interred in St Margaret's church, Crossgate, the 3d of December, 1639
He was father of Jo. Blakiston, of Newcastle, who was one of king Charles I. judges. Marmaduke, his son, sold Newton Hall estate, near Durham, to Sir H. Liddell's family.
.
ROBERT BLAKISTON, A. M. was collated the 27th of November, and installed the 14th of December, 1631. He married bishop Howson's daughter, and died the 17th of January, 1634, before his father, but survived the bishop: He was one of the eight prebendaries that supported the canopy over the head of king Charles I. when he came to visit the cathedral
Ralph, his brother, was rector of
yton. Brown Willis says, Robert was rector of Bromstede in Norfolk. He attended bishop Morton's visitation, the 15th of November, 1633.
.
MATTHEW LEVET, A. M. was collated the 24th of January, 1634: Was fellow of St John's College, Cambridge, and pupil to bishop Morton: He had a prebend, and was subdean in Ripon Church, and held his preferments in 1641, but how much longer doth not appear
Morton's Life. p. 67.—In the Register Dr Basire's collation to this stall is dated the 24th of November, 1643.—Rymer's Foedera, vol. xix. p. 611, says Levet was collated the 24th of February.
.
ISAAC BASIRE, D. D. was installed the 12th of August, 1643. In the Biogra. Brittannia, we are told he was born in Jersey, from the authority of Wood
Fa
i, vol. i. f. 285.
, which the annotator contradicts, but without telling us the certain place of his nativity. Grey, in his MS. Notes, says, he was born at Rouen, in Normandy, but quotes no authority; the place of his education is equally uncertain. The first of his being noted to us is under the patronage of bishop Morton, who ordained him deacon and priest whilst bishop of Litchfield, and made him his chaplain: In September, 1636, he was collated to the church of Egglescliff; in July, 1640, he had the degree of doctor in divinity conferred upon him at Cambridge, by mandate, and was incorporated in the same at Oxford, in November following; about which time he was made chaplain in ordinary to king Charles I. On the 24th of August, 1644, was appointed to the archdeaconry of Northumberland; and, on the 7th of July, 1646, was inducted to the rectory of Stanhope, on the presentation of king Charles I. On the breaking out of the rebellion, he was sequestered, plundered, and obliged to abscond, and after flying to the king at Oxford, and sharing in the distresses of his sovereign, he fled the kingdom, and went to propagate the doctrine of the church of England among the Greeks and Arabians, travelling through Apulia, Naples, Sicily, Morea, &c. into Syria and Palestine. During his travels he collated the several confessions of faith of the different sorts of Christians, Greeks, Armenians, Jacobites, Maronites, &c. which he kept by him in their own languages: In his travels he endured many hardships, particularly in 1653, he passed from Aleppo to Constantinople by land, being 600 miles, without either servant, or Christian, or any man with him, that could speak the Frank language; yet, by the help of some Arabic acquired at Aleppo, he performed that journey in the company of twenty Turks, whose courtesy was purchased by his dispensing to them in the physical line, he having studied medicine at Padua. On the Restoration, he was recalled to England, and put in possession of his ecclesiastical benefices. He was the author of many religious tracts and discourses, as also the Life of Dr Cosin, bishop of Durham, published with his funeral sermon. He departed this life on the 12th of October, 1676, aet. 69, and was interred in the cathedral church-yard at Durham
Ath. Oxon. vol. i.—Biogr. Brit. vol. i.—Vide Ger. Vossius's Epistle to him, 178; and two of his epistles to Vossius, in the same collect.—Walker's Suff. Clergy, vol. ii. p. 19, 20.—Kennet's Reg. 228, 526, 709.
Depositum IS. BASIRE, S. T. D. Archidiaconi Northumbr. hujus Eccl'iae canonici & regibus augg. Carolo Imo & Carolo IIdo à Sacris, qui ob dormivit 12 die Octob. Ao D'ni, 1676, Ao aetat. suae 69, 1 Thess. iv. 14. Deus eos qui dormierunt per Jesum adducet cum eo.
.
JOHN MORTON, B. D. was installed the 16th of October, 1676, and soon after removed to the sixth stall
See page 193.
.
RICHARD KNIGHTLEY, A. M. was installed the 29th of November, 1676, removed from the sixth stall
See page 192.
He died at Byfield, in the county of Northampton, 1695.
JOHN SMITH, D. D. was installed the 26th of September, 1695. He was the eldest son of Mr William Smith, rector of Lowther, in Westmoreland; was admitted a minor canon of this church on the 20th of July, 1682, and had the office of precentor: On the 20th of July, 1683, he was appointed to Croxdale curacy; and the 1st of July, 1684, to Witton-Gilbert curacy. On the 12th of June, 1695, was collated to Gateshead rectory and hospital; and in July, 1696, took the degree of doctor in divinity: And on the 28th of July, 1704, was collated to Bishop-Weremouth, having previously resigned Gateshead. He repaired and altered his prebendal house at the cost of 200l. and expended 200l. in repairs of the chancel at Weremouth. He rebuilt the parsonage house at no less cost than 600l. receiving of Dr Grey's executors for dilapidations not above 100l. and in his asserting and recovering the rights of that church, he expended 600l. notwithstanding which he died rich
He was the only instance of ascending from a minor canon's seat to a prebend.—He left a considerable estate to his eldest son George, who lived at Burnhall, near Durham, a non-juror and said to be nominal bishop of Durham with that society.—In personal and real estate, he died possessed of upwards of 15,000l.—He had 4500l. portion with his wife, and got 1100l. for the colliery of Prior Close, part of the corps land of his prebend, of which he let a lease.
Grey's Notes, MSS.
. At the time of his death he was printing a most correct edition of Venerable Bede's works, the preparing of which cost him fourteen years labour: This was published by his son after his decease, in April 1722. He died at Cambridge in the month of July, 1715, and was interred in the anti-chapel of St John's College chapel
M. S.
JOHANNIS SMITH, S. T. P.
Lowtheriae in agro Westmariensi nati:
Qui Juvenis
In hoc celeberrimum collegium cooptatus est;
Ubi bonis moribus informatus, et ingenuis artibus
Eruditus, ejusdem collegii decus
Totiusq. ecclesiae ornamentum evasit:
Quem
Mira facilitas morum et elegantia, comitati
Adjuncta semper gravitas, animi candor et modestia
Ornatum;
Ingenii faecunditas, acumen judicii, memoriae vigor,
In re literariâ promovendâ fatalis industria
Doctum.
In adversis rebus animi magnitudo, in secundis
Continentia, in Deum deni
que
suos
que
singularis pietas
Optimum fuisse demonstrarunt.
Ob haec merita, quibus Hon.tissimi et Rev.di admodum episcopi
Gratiam sibi conciliavit, in numerum canonicorum
Dunelmensium prius adscitus, dein in ecclesiam
Weremuthae epi. parochialem promotus est.
Hisce sacerdotis honestis auctus, ea non minus dignè,
Quam ipsa ilium, exornavit.
Antiqua ecclesiae jura et privilegia nemo fortius
Defendit. Eloquentiam cum theologiâ omnes
que
Bonas artes cum sacris literis adeo conjunxit;
Ut orator copiosus, philologus eximius, theologus
Absolutus meritò audiret.
In historicis, Anglicis praesertim, evolvendis
Fuit maximè assiduus; advertens
que
animum,
Quod polita Venerabilis BAEDAE operum
Historicorum desideraretur editio, id laboris
A nullo potius, quam a canonico Dunelm. BAEDAE
S
t compresbytero et populari, subeundum duxit:
Huic igitur muneri se accinxit; sed, proh dolor!
Dum non vulgari studio praelo insudaret;
Morte in medio opere immaturâ praereptus est:
Et intra sacram hujus collegii aedem, cujus in gremio se
Nutritum non sine piâ voluptate saepius jactavit,
Humatus est
Natus, Anno D'ni. 1659,
Obiit 30 Julii, 1715.
.
THOMAS EDEN, LL. D. was installed the 23d of August, 1715, being removed from the ninth stall. He was the fourth son of Sir Robert Eden of West-Auckland, baronet; was educated at Newcastle school, under the famous Thomas Rud, and admitted of Trinity Hall, Cambridge: He was chaplain to lord Crew; collated to the rectory of Winston in 1709; and to Brancepeth, 1749. Upon Sir Geo. Wheler's death, he was appointed official to the dean and chapter, the 12th of February, 1723. He died on the 3d of March, 1754, aet. 71, and was buried in the cathedral church-yard, by his will expressly prohibiting his remains being interred in any church
Here lye interr'd,
The remains of the Rev. Tho. Eden, LL. D.
Forty-two years prebendary of this cathedral,
And rector of Winstone.
By the donation of the late Lord Crew,
Ld bishop of Durham,
Rector also of Brancepeth;
Whose life and conduct,
Labours to promote true religion,
Extensive charity to the poor,
Chearfulness amongst his friends,
And good will towards all mankind,
Endeared him to all.
Who had the happiness of knowing him,
And made his loss to be universally lamented.
He died in the college,
March ye 3rd, 1754, aged 71.
This monument was erected to his memory
By his affectionate nephew
Sir Robt. Eden, Ba
t.
Burd. 6 Mar. 1754. E. regist. Cath.
.
JOSEPH SPENCE, A. M. was installed the 24th of May, 1754: Was born of poor parents in Northamptonshire; educated at Winchester school; was of Trinity College, Oxford, where he continued two years; and afterwards of New College, where he held a fellowship, and took a degree of master of arts, the 2d of November, 1727: Was instituted to the rectory of Birchanger, in Essex, the 10th of August, 1728, which he resigned about December, 1742; was presented, by the warden and fellow of New College, to the rectory of Harwood Magna, in the county of Bucks; and was made professor of modern history at Oxford, in the room of Dr Holmes, who was appointed dean of Exeter in 1742. He died the 20th of August, 1768, at Byfleet, in Surry, aet. 65
He fell into a pond, where he was found dead.—He was the author of a celebrated publication, stiled Polymetis.
.
NEWTON OGLE, D. D. installed the 27th of October, 1768, the son of Nath. Ogle, M. D. of Kirkley, in the county of Northumberland, physician to the army under the duke of Marlborough. Dr Newton Ogle was made archdeacon of Surry, in 1761, and installed dean of Winchester the 21st of October, 1769.
PREBENDARIES OF THE EIGHTH STALL
Lands assigned to the eighth stall.
Stat.
Tertia pars domus Manerij & Parci de Mugleswick
8
7
9½
 
Capitulo antiq. solvend.
0
7
9½
Act. capit.
Decimae assignat.
 
 
 
 
Decimae Garbarum de Walworth, infra paroch. de Heighington
7
0
0
 
Decimae Garbarum de Preston, infra paroch. de Ackliff
3
13
4
 
Decimae Garbarum de Ketton, ib'm
3
6
8
 
Decimae Garbarum de Magna Ricknel ib'm
0
13
4
Lib. recept. Solvit capitulo octavus canonicus quotannis pro decimis de parva Ricknole
0
6
8
.
JOHN TOWTON, S. T. B. appointed at the foundation, the 12th of May, 1541. He was deprived for recusancy on the royal visitation, 1560.
ADAM SHEPERDE was installed the 18th of July, 1560, being presented by the queen, the See vacant: He was admitted by Dr Watson and Dr Crawforth, prebendaries of this church, who were guardians of the spiritualties, by virtue of a commission from the chapter of York, their archbishop being deprived, and the dean absent
Vid. Reg. Horn, 122. 2 Reg. f. 123.—Quere how this circumstance happened?—The mandate for installment bears date the 18th of July, 1560.
. He died in the year 1563.
THOMAS LEVER was installed the 21st of February, 1563. He was born in Lancashire, and was preacher to king Edward VI. was elected master of St John's College, Cambridge, the 10th of December, 1551; was contemporary and fellow collegian with bishop Pilkington, archdeacon of Coventry, and on the 28th of January, 1562, made master of Sherburn hospital, in which year he subscribed the articles. He changed his religion in queen Mary's reign, and was deprived, in 1567, of his prebend for refusing to comply with ecclesiastical orders, but kept the hospital to the time of his death, which happened in July 1577, and was interred there.
Reg. p. 190.—He was brother to Ralph Lever in the fifth stall; preacher to the English exiles at Yarrow, in Switzerland.—His sermons printed in 1573. Another publication intitled The Right Way from Danger of Sin and Vengeance, 1575.—Strype's Ann. vol. i. 218, and Life of Parker, 275.—Strype's Eliz. p. 105, 131, 132, 290.—Grindal, lib. ii. c. 4. p. 170, 189.—Parker, lib. iii. c. 8. p. 22, and lib. iv. c. 6.—Fuller's Hist. of Camb. p. 95.—Fuller's Worthies.—See a short account of his sermon at Paul's Cross, in Wood's Hist. and Antiq. Oxon.—See his concern for preserving coll. and hospitals, 2 Strype Ann. 512, &c.
RICHARD LONGWORTHE, D. D. was collated the 9th of November, and installed the 3d of January, 1567. He was born at Bolton, in Cheshire, and ordained deacon the 9th of March, 1560, being master of arts, and fellow of St John's College, Cambridge, at the age of twenty-seven: Was admitted master of St John's, the 11th of May, 1564, which he resigned in December, 1569; was installed prebend of Worcester, the 3d of June, 1568; and promoted to the deanry of Chester, the 28th of February, 1572, upon which he resigned his prebend in this cathedral. He departed this life in 1579; and by his will, dated the 19th of April in that year, gave a legacy to his host at the Red Lion, in Holborn, so that it is probable he died there.
FRANCIS BUNNEY, A. M. was installed the 13th of May, 1572. He was the third son of Richard Bunney, of Newland, near Wakefield,
Esq
born on the 8th of May, 1543; was fellow of Magdalen College, in 1563; chaplain to the earl of Bedford; collated to the archdeaconry of Northumberland, the 20th of October, 1573, which he resigned for the rectory of Ryton, to which he was inducted the 13th of September, 1578. He died on the 16th of April, 1617, aet. 75, and was interred in Ryton church
Ath. Oxon. vol. i. Dav. Mon. 153.—Strype's Ann. vol. ii. 482.—Was called
a precise man
by bishop Sandys, p. 525.—Student in Oxford, 1558; perpetual fellow of Magdalen, 1582: He preached two sermons on Rom. iii. 28, at Durham, which he printed, 1616, and dedicated to the bishop. He left 30l. to the chapter library.—For his epitaph, see Ryton church.
.
FRANCIS BURGOYNE, D. D. was installed the 6th of May, 1617. He was collated to Bishop-Weremouth in 1595; was rector of Spofforth, in the county of York; and collated to the archdeaconry of Northumberland, the 13th of September, 1631. He died in 1633
He was one of the proxies mentioned in the commission for inthronization of bishop Neile, the 13th of October, 1617 in which he is expressly called a canon of this church.—His dividend was paid him by William James, treasurer Mich. 1633, so he survived that time. Grey's MSS.
.
ANTHONY MAXTON, A. M. was collated the 23d of May, 1633. He was a Scotchman by birth, and recommended to bishop Morton, by king Charles I. he took deacon's orders in 1608; and was ordained priest in 1609: Was collated to Wolsingham rectory the 21st of June, 1614; and instituted to the rectory of Middleton in Teesdale, on the 10th of July, 1619, on the presentation of Charles, then Prince of Wales. He died about the year 1641, and was interred at Wolsingham
He left no sons.—Married his youngest daughter to Bowes of Streatlam; another to Sir Joseph Cradock; and another to Thomas Fetherstone of Stanhope.—He was not master of Sherburn hospital, but managed it for Mr Murray, and thereby enriched himself. Grey's Notes, MSS.—Walker's Suff. Clergy, vol. ii. p. 21.— His life wrote by Baddeley.
.
JOHN BARWICK, D. D. was collated by bishop Morton, but never installed, as he resigned this stall for the fourth prebend
See page 185 and 161.
.
ROBERT GREY, D. D. was collated the 10th of May, 1652, but not installed till the 2d of November, 1660. He was the brother of lord Grey, of Wark; was collated to the rectory of Bishop-Weremouth, the 15th of March, 1652: His parsonage house being greatly injured in the turbulent times, he was obliged to rebuild the front of it. In July, 1660, he was made bachelor of divinity at Cambridge, by mandamus, and in September following, was in like manner created doctor in divinity: He departed this life the 9th of July, 1704, aet. 94, and was buried at Bishop-Weremouth.
ROBERT OSTLY, A. M. was collated the 28th of July, 1704. He was rector of Abinger, in Surry, was of Trinity College, Cambridge, and many years chaplain to bishop Crew. He died on the 11th of May, 1743, at his rectory, where he was interred
He had a dispensation from the crown. He died a bachelor, and bequeathed to pious uses 70l. a year, leaving Sir John Evelyn his trustee. Grey's Notes, MSS.—
8. Aubrey's Antiq. Surry, vol. iv. p. 112.
.
JAMES LESLEY, A. M. was installed the 20th of July, 1743. He was a native of Ireland, curate of St. Nicholas', Dublin, married a niece of bishop Chandler, to whom he was chaplain: Was collated to Wolsingham in 1741, and resigned it for Sedgefield, to which he was collated in May, 1747, being at that time doctor in divinity, an Irish degree of Trinity College, Dublin: Was a man of little learning. He accepted the bishopric of Limerick, in Ireland, for a resignation of this stall, and the rectory of Sedgefield, in favour of Dr Lowth, then archdeacon of Winchester, who declined the bishopric of Limerick, but had liberty to exchange the appointment for English preferments. He died at Dublin.
ROBERT LOWTH, D. D. was installed the 29th of October, 1755, on Lesley's resignation. He was a son of William Lowth, prebendary of Winchester; educated at Winchester school; became scholar and fellow of New College; took the degree of master of arts, on the 8th of June, 1737; and that of doctor in divinity, by diploma, the 8th of July, 1754. In 1750, he was made archdeacon of Winchester, which he resigned: Was instituted to the rectory of Sedgefield, the 23d of October, 1755; was chaplain to lord Huntington, lord-lieutenant of Ireland, and to their majesties George II. and III. On the 17th of May, 1766, he was consecrated bishop of St David's; and translated to Oxford, in 1767, holding this prebend, and his rectory,
in commendam.
In March, 1777, he resigned Sedgefield, and was removed to the See of London, where he now sits.
RICHARD KAYE, LL. D. was installed the 10th of July, 1777, sub-almoner to his majesty. He resigned this stall in 1783, on being appointed dean of Lincoln.
CHARLES POYNTZ, D. D. was educated at Christ-Church, Oxford, where, he took his master of arts degree, the 4th of May, 1759; bachelor in divinity, the 25th of November, 1769; and doctor in divinity, the 7th of December, 1769: Was installed in this prebend the 24th of January, 1784. He holds some ecclesiastical preferments in Norfolk and Wales.
PREBENDARIES OF THE NINTH STALL
Lands, &c. assigned to the ninth stall.
Stat.
Manerium de Rylly, et Almner Barnes
8
0
4
 
Capit. antiq. solvend.
0
0
4
Act. capit.
Decimae assignat.
 
 
 
 
Decimae Garbar. de Heighington, p'ann.
13
6
8
 
Decimae de West Thickley
1
0
0
Lib. recept.—Solvit capitulo non. canonicus pro decimis Garbar. de Bracks quotannis
0
5
0
.
NICHOLAS MARLEY, B. D. the 12th of May, 1541, by the foundation. He was instituted to Pittington vicarage, the 9th of April, 1548; was deprived thereof in 1560, and sentenced not to come within eight miles of Durham. He was also deprived of this stall, for recusancy.
THOMAS HORTON, clerk, was presented by queen Elizabeth, the 15th of January, 1560, the See being then vacant: It is probable he was never installed, as he resigned the same month
Rymer, vol xv.
.
WILLIAM STEPHENSON, B. D. was presented by queen Elizabeth, and installed the 28th of January, 1560. The queen appointed him preacher at Berwick, and dispensed with his residence, allowing him the full profits of his prebend
Reg. Horn, p. 132.—Skynner's Reg. p. 144.—
Wharton's Angl. Sac. vol. i. p. 784.
. He was appointed official to the dean and chapter, for Northumberland, the 24th of May, 1561; was vicar of Gainford, and also vicar of Hartburn. He died in the year 1575, and was buried before the choir door of this cathedral.
RICHARD FAWCETT, B. D. was installed the 10th of January, 1575. He was inducted to the rectory of Boldon, the 14th of April, 1575. By his will, he ordered his remains to be interred in the chancel of Boldon church
In the treasurer's book for 1609-10, it appears that Fawcett was paid to Christmas, 1609, his executors to Lady-day following, and Moorcroft to Midsummer, 1610.—And there is a memorandum that Fawcett died the 5th of February, 1609.—
Grey's Notes, MSS.
.
GEORGE MOORCROFT, A. M. In a list of the prebendaries who answered at the visitation of bishop James, 1610, it appears he had this stall. He was rector of Stanhope and Wolsingham, and died in 1648
In the registers he appears at all visitations, till the time of the rebellion; the register being discontinued from 1643 to 1660.—In a lease let to one Edward Moorcroft, the 18th of November, 1611, of the corps of this prebend, is a provisoe, if Geo. Moorcroft so long live.—When king Charles visited this church, the 1st of June, 1633, one of the Moorcrofts, but it is not said which of the two, was among the prebendaries who held the canopy.— Dr Sharp saith this lease of Moorcroft's corps to Edward, was made by the dean and chapter for 2
years, provided the said Geo. Moorcroft so long live.
Grey's Notes, MSS.
.
THOMAS TRIPLETT, D. D. was collated to this prebend the 20th of March, 1648, by bishop Morton, though not installed till the 2d of November, 1660. He was born at or near Oxford, and was student in Christ-Church; had Whitburn in 1631; was rector of Washington in 1640; held a prebend in York cathedral, 1641, and another in Sarum 1645; and within those periods was vicar of Woodhorn, in Northumberland. He exchanged his stall in this church with Dr Sancroft, for one at Westminster. Died the 18th of July, 1670, aet. 70, and was buried in Westminster abbey
See a letter of his to lord Falkland, in Dr Hammond's works, vol ii. p. 629. Ath. Oxon. vol. i. and ii.—
Walker's Suss. Clergy, vol ii p. 68.
.
WILLIAM SANCROFT, D. D. was installed the 11th of March, 1661. He was born the 30th of January, 1616, at Fressingfield, in the county of Suffolk, the family's place of residence for three hundred years. At the age of eighteen he was placed at Emanuel College, Cambridge, and matriculated in the year 1634: In 1637, was admitted to the degree of bachelor of arts; and master of arts in 1641; the year following, was elected a fellow of his college; and took the degree of bachelor in divinity in 1648, but, refusing to take the covenant, was ejected from his fellowship in the year 1649; upon which he went abroad, and became intimately acquainted with the most considerable English loyalists then in exile. In 1660, he was chosen one of the university preachers, though it appears he was at Rome when king Charles II. returned to England
A MS. of Mr Henry Wharton.—In a MS. vol. of collections now in St John's College library, Oxford, by Dr Rawlinson, the following is observable:—
Wm Sancroft, at Padua, entered a student as appears by a testimonial, signed by the pro-rector and Syndik, 10th March, 1660.
Pres. to Coll. Curio. Oxf 1781.
. Soon after the Restoration, Dr Sancroft came home, and bishop Cosin, who knew him abroad, appointed him one of his chaplains; and on the 7th of December, 1661, he was collated to the rectory of Houghton-le-Spring, in which year he assisted in renewing the liturgy. By mandamus, he was created doctor in divinity in the month of March, 1661-2; and on the 14th of August following, was elected master of Emanuel College, which he governed with great propriety. In the beginning of the year 1663-4, the doctor was promoted to the deanry of York, which he held but a short time, yet long enough to expend 200l. more than the revenue produced, in repairs and other incident charges; during that short period bringing the church accounts into excellent order. On the death of Dr John Barwick, in 1664, he was removed to the deanry of St Paul's, soon after which he resigned Houghton, and the mastership of Emanuel. He now gave much attention to the repairs of his church, till the fire, in 1666, occasioned all his thoughts to be employed in rebuilding that fabric, to which he contributed 1400l. besides unwearied endeavours to promote a subscription: He rebuilt the deanry house, and improved the revenue thereof, as well as other livings in his gift, as dean. In 1668, he was admitted archdeacon of Canterbury, on the king's presentation, which he resigned in 1670. In 1677, being then prolocutor of the convocation, he was advanced by king Charles II. to the archbishopric of Canterbury, in which most conspicuous character, surrounded with the perils and errors of the times, he conducted himself with singular prudence, perspicuity, and religious virtue: His revenues were not dissipated in luxury and ostentation, but disposed in works of charity, munificence, and hospitality. He resigned this stall in 1674, having rebuilt the prebendal house. He attended king Charles II. on his death bed, when it is said, he made some remonstrances, and pressed sundry exhortations on the sovereign, towards which the complexion of the court had warmed his spirit. In 1686, the doctor refused to act in the commission issued by king James II. for ecclesiastical affairs; and in 1688, was committed to the Tower, with six other bishops, for presenting a petition to the king, against reading his majesty's declaration of indulgence. The court pronouncing this petition libellous, on the 29th of June the prelates were tried for a misdemeanour, but, to the general satisfaction of the nation, were acquitted. He engaged his good offices for the dissenting Protestants, foreseeing the revolution that was approaching. On the 3d of October, accompanied with eight bishops, he attended the king, who had demanded their counsel, and then, with a freedom virtue only inspires, urged the most serious and important advice to his sovereign, touching the unhappy situation of the state. A few days after, though very earnestly pressed by his majesty, he refused to sign a declaration of abhorrence of the Prince of Orange's designs; and on the 17th of November, he joined in another petition, for a free parliament. On the king's abdication, he signed, and concurred with the lords spiritual and temporal, assembled at Guildhall, in a declaration to the Prince of Orange for a free parliament, security of our laws, liberties, and properties, and of the church of England in particular, with a due indulgence to Protestant dissenters: But when that prince and his consort were declared king and queen, he refused to take the oaths to their majesties, was suspended the 1st of August, 1689, and deprived the 1st of February following. The above fact counteracts all the principles he appeared to have adopted, and leaves his character under suspicion, or marked with duplicity, insincerity, and want of truth. The editor
Mr Gutch.
of the Collectanea Curiosa, embarrassed at this point, says,
As for the archbishop's character, let it be learned from his actions; for if we go for it to the writers of opposite parties, it will appear, in different hands, as different as possible. He certainly gave the strongest instance possible of sincerity, in sacrificing the highest dignities, and other the greatest advantages, to what he thought truth and honesty.
He continued at Lambeth till June, 1691, and then retired to his native place, where he spent the remainder of his life in strict retirement, and died on the 24th of November, 1693, aer. 77. The before mentioned editor says,
His grace left behind him a vast multitude of papers and collections in MS. and therein more perhaps wrote with his own hand, than any man either of this or the last age ever did write
Mr Wharton's Preface to archbishop Laud's Hist. of his Troubles and Trial, p. penuit.
. Upon his decease they came into his nephew's hands, and after his nephew's death, they were purchased by the late bishop Tanner, who gave them, with the rest of his valuable MSS. to the Bodleian library, Oxford
Kennet's Reg. 647.
Complaint was made in bishop Cosin's prim. visit. that little or nothing had been done to the repair of the prebendal house by the last possessor. He was made prebendary of Oxgate, and residentiary. Grey's Notes, MSS.—His character.—Godwin de Praeful. &c.—Kennet's Reg. 641.— Vide bishop Burnet's Defence of Tillotson's Funeral Serm—Also in the Life of archbishop Tillotson, by Dr Birch. p. 143, &c.—Gen. Dict.— Supplem. to Collier's Dict.
He had made several notes and collections touching the history and antiq. of the county of Durham, which I have applied in the various branches of this work.—W. H.
In the church-yard of Fressingfield, in Suffolk, against the south wall of the church, on the right side of the tomb.
P. M. S.
Lector, Wilhelmi nuper archi-praesulis
(Qui natus in vicinia)
Quod morti cecidit, prope hunc murum jacet;
Atqui resurget. Tu interim
Semper paratus esto, mam quâ non putas
Venturus hora Dominus est.
Obiit 24 Nov. Ano .
Nat. Dom. 1693.
Aetat. suae 77.
On the left side.
P. M. S.
William Sancroft, born in this parish, afterwards, by the providence of God, archbishop of Canterbury, at last deprived of all, which he could not keep with a good conscience, returned hither to end his life, and professeth here, at the foot of his tomb, that as naked he came forth, so naked he must return: The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away, (as the Lord pleases so come things to pass) blessed be the name of the Lord.
Over his head.
St Math. xxiv. v. 27, &c. &c.
.
THOMAS HOLDSWORTH, A. M. was installed the 1st of June, 1675, on the presentation of king Charles II. in these words,
Ad nostram donacionem spectant. virtute prerogativae regiae, racione temporalium ejusd. episcopatus in manibus nostris existent.
He was rector, or dean as he is stiled, of Middleham, in the county of York: The time of his death is uncertain
The king's presentation is dated the 23d of October, 1674.— It appears by the register, he paid the pension for Thickley, part of his corpe, to Mich. 1681, and Dr Bagshaw to Mich. 1682, so that he died after 1680, and before July 1681.
Grey's Notes, MSS.
; Willis says 1680.
HENRY BAGSHAW, D. D. was installed the 20th of July, 1680. He was born at Broughton, in Northamptonshire; received his first rudiments at Westminster school, from whence he was elected student of Christ-Church in 1651: He was chaplain to Sir Richard Fanshaw, ambassador in Spain and Portugal; after his return was made chaplain to archbishop Stern, who gave him the prebend of Southwell, and rectory of Castleton, in Synderick: In 1667, he held the prebend of Barneby, in York cathedral; and in 1668, that of Friday Thorp. He took a bachelor of divinity's degree on the 7th of July, 1668; and on the 28th of November, 1671, that of doctor in divinity: In 1672, was made chaplain to the lord-treasurer Danby, and rector of St Botolph's church, near Bishopsgate, London, which was exchanged for Houghton-le-Spring, where he departed this life on the 30th of December, 1709, aet. 77, and was interred in the chancel of the church there
For his epitaph, see the church of Houghton in the sequel.—Ath. Oxon. 1041, 1657. 2 Ath. Oxon. 491.
He was youngest brother of Edw. Bagshaw, of the Middle Temple,
Esq
whose reading in the Middle Temple Hall, February, 1639, upon
Statutum de Clero,
was prohibited proceeding at the instance of archbishop Laud. Grey's MSS.—He is represented as a very turbulent clergyman. Kennet's Reg. 603; and had been second master of Westminster under Dr Busby, 784. V. Baxter's Life, vol. i. 378.
.
WILLIAM HARTWEL, D. D. was installed the 7th of February, 1709, and removed to the tenth prebend
See page 210.
: In 1681, he was instituted to the rectory of Whickham; and in 1685, to that of Stanhope, where he made great improvements in his parsonage house and gardens. He departed this life on the 1st of June, 1725, and was buried at the north end of the middle transept in this cathedral
He had been secretary to lord Crew, when bishop of Oxford. He was fifteen years a prebendary, and forty years rector of Stanhope. He had written his own epitaph, but it was not thought proper to be put on his monument. Grey's Notes, MSS.
Dr Hartwell's will bears date the 9th of March, 1724, with a codicil thereto of the same date.
"Whereby," Article 4th. "Item I leave 20l. p' aun. to be divided into two exhibitions of 10l. each, towards the maintenance of two scholars to be sent to either of the universities, out of the schools of Durham and Newcastle; these exhibitions to continue for four years, with a year of grace to take a degree, if the trustees think fit.
"Art. 5. Item. I give for the relief of two ministers poor widows, in the communion of the established church, and whose husbands had either benefice or curacy in the diocese of Durham, 5l. each, to be paid half-yearly during their widowhood, and so long only as they shall continue objects of charity, and no longer.— Upon death or other vacancy, this number to be kept up for ever.
"Art. 6. Item. I give to the goal of Durham, for the use and benefit of insolvent debtors there, 20l. p' ann. to be disposed of under the same restrictions and limitations with the charities of like kind left by bishop Wood; and that in the application of it, respect be first had to the parishioners of Stanhope.
"These charities from Art. 3, inclusive, are to be paid out of the rents of Fishburn estate; and having a presumption that I shall not be denied in a cause of charity, I do appoint the Dean and Chapter of Durham, or any three of them, my trustees herein, with the assistance, if need be, of the mayor and aldermen of Durham, or any part of them, to receive the rent of the said estate at Fishburn, and to see it applied according to the directions before expressed.
"Art. 12. Item. I leave to Dr Thomas Eden, one of my executors, 50l. to whom I leave the crimson network purse, with the silver medals in it.
"CODICIL. Art. 4. I desire my funeral may be as private as possible; and, therefore, I appoint ten o'clock at night for the ceremony, only a velvet pall, without escutcheons, no more than six bearers, with rings, scarfs, and gloves.—Dr Eden one of the six.—I can go no further at present, considering the impotence I am reduced to by prosperous villainy.
"Art. 5. I humbly move my executors after my interment, to cover my grave with a blue or black stone, and to fix a modest monument of white marble against the wall of the cross aile of the cathedral to the north, opposite to the clock, the cost not to exceed 50l. if less, the better; the inscription to be an oval or square, &c.
"Lastly. I beg there maybe no alteration in the stile, words, or sentiments of the epitaph, which is inclosed in my will, and which I expect my executors will perform for me, and have it cut in the oval or square erected for me. Upon my grave-stone is only to be written, Hic jacet Gulielmus Hartwel, S. T. P.
"Art. 7. I leave to Mr Hen. Pereth, my family pictures, viz. Sir John Marlay, his son Mr Marlay, and his grandson Hen. Marlay, &c.
"Art. 11. I leave to Sir John Eden, my fine Lucretia cut in stone, by the son of Bernini, the famous statuary at Rome," &c. &c.
Proved at Durham, the 26th of August, 1725.
Sub marmore infra posito recumbit
Venerabilis vir Gulielmus Hartwel, S. T. P.
Et hujus ecc'ae canonicus;
Qui spe in Xto stabilitâ,
Coluit justitiam, pacem, charitatem, sidem,
Mansuetudinem, misericordiam, benevolentiam,
Et sine suco, cor mundum.
Quos animi affectus promisit Deus opt. max.
Vita aeterna insignire, & gaudio nunquam
Interituro afficere.
O munus divinum! omni laude majus,
Omni cogitatione sublimius.
Benedictus benedicatur, qui tantâ mercede
Affectiones nostras inanes, et nil ei profuturas,
Decorare dignatus est.
Obiit 1o . Junij, Anno salutis n'rae 1725o .
Aetatis suae 70mo
On a small square blue stone on the floor.
Hic jac
GULIELMUS HARTWEL,
S. T. P.
.
THOMAS EDEN, LL. D. was installed the 24th of July, 1711, and was removed to the seventh stall
See page 199.
.
WILLIAM LUPTON, D. D. was installed the 20th of September, 1715. He was fellow of Lincoln College, Oxford, lecturer of St Dunstan's, in Fleet-street, London, morning preacher in Lincoln's Inn, and afternoon lecturer in the Temple: Was vicar of Richmond, in Yorkshire, for one year, and resigned in the spring, 1706. In a sermon preached on Prov. iii. 16. he complimented bishop Crew very highly on the fiftieth anniversary of his consecration. He preached lady Moyer's lectures, but an indifferent performance; at his death, he desired none of his discourses might be published, acknowledging he was not that great man the world thought him
Birch's Life of Tillotson, 218.
. On the 1st of July, 1700, he took a master of arts degree; that of bachelor of divinity the 14th of February, 1708; and doctor in divinity the 13th of February, 1711. He died at Tunbridge Wells the 14th of December, 1726.
JOHN JOHNSON, LL. D. was installed on the 18th of January, 1726. He was curate to Mr Bruce, vicar of Middleton-Tyas, in Yorkshire, in the year 1700. He had no university education, but on the 13th of January, 1731, was admitted in Brazen-Nose College, to a degree of bachelor of civil law, by diploma; and on the 16th of June, 1726, to that of doctor in civil law. He professed a knowledge of surgery, and attempted many desperate cases, in one of which succeeding with lady Clayton, one of the maids of honour, by her interest at court, was appointed domestic chaplain to the lady Caroline, then princess of Wales; and by king Geo. II. was presented to the vicarage of Manfield, in the county of York: He afterwards had Hurworth rectory, by presentation of Charles Pinkney,
Esq
1714; and died in possession of that living, the 14th of October, 1761, aet. 84, where he lies interred
For his epitaph, see the church of Hurworth in the sequel.—Dr Johnson purchased an alternate turn in this rectory.
.
CHARLES MORGAN, A. M. was installed by proxy, the 25th of February, 1762. Was student of Christ-Church, where he took a degree of master of arts on the 24th of March, 1757: Was chaplain to bishop Trevor, and resigned this prebend for the rectory of Haughton, near Darlington, into which he was inducted the 9th of June, 1764: He died at Scarborough, on the 26th of the same month, aet. 32, and was interred in the porch of his church at Haughton
For his epitaph, see Haughton church in the sequel.
.
CHARLES WESTON, A. M. was installed the 11th of August, 1764, and removed to the sixth stall
See page 195.
.
JOHN SHARP, D. D. eldest son of Thomas Sharp, prebendary of the tenth stall, vicar of Hartburn, and archdeacon of Northumberland, was installed on the 11th of August, 1768.
PREBENDARIES OF THE TENTH STALL
Lands, &c. assigned to the tenth stall.
Stat.
Firma capitalis terrarum & tenement. de South Pittington, cum domo manerij ejusdem & Horto & Clausura vocat. Pondgarth & alia Clausura vocat. Puller close.
Lib. Recept. solvuntur capitulo quotannis
 
 
 
 
Pro tenement de South Pittington
8
13
4
 
Pro Manerio ibidem
0
1
8
 
Pro bladis Aegidij
0
2
0
 
Pro Puller close
3
6
8
Act. capit.
Decimae assignat.
 
 
 
 
Decimae Garbar. de Hutam & Hulam infra parochiam de Hesledon
8
0
0
 
Decimae de Nether Heworth, in paroch. Jarrow
1
10
0
 
Decimae Garbar. de Suddick, infra paroch. Monkweremouth
5
6
8
.
ROBERT BLAKISTON, on the foundation, the 12th of May, 1541. He died in the year 1550.
JOHN RUD, B. D. chaplain in ordinary to king Edward VI. and was presented by him on the 20th of June, 1550,
ex avisamento & consensu privati consilii sui,
and was installed on the 22d of July following: He was also installed a prebendary of Winchester, in 1551, but on the accession of queen Mary, was deprived in 1553
He was the only person presented by king Edw. VI. or in his reign.
.
GEORGE BULLOCK, D. D. was presented by queen Mary, and installed on the 9th of May, 1554. On the 12th of May, in the same year, he was admitted master of St John's College, Cambridge. On the presentation of Philip and Mary, was instituted vicar of St Sepulchre, London, the 11th of February in that year, but resigned that church before the 2d of October, 1556: In the year 1559, he was deprived, fled beyond sea, and lived at Antwerp, in the monastery of St Michael, where we presume he died in 1580
Rymer, vol. xv. p. 350.—Fuller, p. 130.—Stryp. Ann. vol. i. p. 244, 278.—Stryp. Eliz. 244.—Pit's de Scriptoribus, p. 773.
.
JOHN RUD, restored in 1559. He died in the year 1578
Isabel, his wife, by will, dated the 28th of October, 1582, orders her body to be buried in the cathedral,
so neyre to her husband, late prebendarye, as may be.
He was dispensed with for two years absence to go abroad Skynner's Reg. 134.
, and was buried in this cathedral.
HUGH BROUGHTON, A. M. was collated the 13th, and installed the 14th of November, 1578. He was a fellow of Christ College, Cambridge, and learned in the Eastern languages, but was esteemed arrogantly opinionative: Was collated to Washington rectory the 6th of May, 1580, and resigned his prebend that year. He died the 4th of August, 1612
See a list of his works in the Bodleian catalogue.—Strype's Aylmer, 12, p. 248.—Whitgift,
. 2,
. l. 4. c. 14, 19, 21, 23, 25, 33.—
Clarke's Lives, p. 1.
.
RALPH TUNSTALL, A. M. was installed the 9th of November, 1580. He was domestic chaplain to archbishop Grindal, prebendary of Knaresbrough, in York cathedral, the 15th of March, 1571; master of St Mary Magdalen's hospital, at Ripon, the 24th of September, 1572; and collated to the archdeaconry of Northumberland, the 29th of October, 1581. He departed this life in March, 1618
Ath. Oxon. vol. i. p. 487.
He was chosen along with the chancellor of York, John Pilkington, and Henry Ewbanke, of the twelfth stall, as proxies for the dean and chapter, to appear at York, the 11th of October, 1586. His name often occurs in the chapter books, as at bishop Matthew's visitation, 1607: Bishop James, 1610 and 1613: But at the visitation of bishop Neile, the 21st of June, 1618, Lindsell, his successor, occurs in this stall, so that probably he died in March, 1618.
Grey's Notes, MSS.
.
AUGUSTIN LINDSELL, D. D. was installed the 8th of April, 1619, and removed to the second stall
See page 176.
.
DANIEL BIRKHEAD, D. D. was removed from the sixth prebend
See page 191.
, and installed the 5th of August, 1620. He died in 1624.
JOHN COSIN, D. D. was collated the 4th of December, 1624, and consecrated bishop of Durham, 1660
Vide, his annals in the first volume of this work, page 532
.
DANIEL BREVINT, A. M. was presented by king Charles II.
sede vacante,
and installed the 15th of March, 1660: Was born in the island of Jersey, and educated at Jesus College, Oxford, where he was incorporated master of arts, and was the first fellow of the French fellowship, founded by king Charles I. Was made master of arts at Saumur, in France, where he was a voluntary exile, minister of a church in Normandy, and chaplain to the Prince of Turin. In 1661, he was created doctor in divinity at Oxford; was instituted to Brancepeth, the 10th of September, 1662; and was dean of Lincoln, where he died the 5th of May, 1695, and was interred in the cathedral there
Heylin's Life of Laud, p. 336.—Ath. Oxon. vol. ii. p. 927.—Kennet's Reg. 395.—He wrote several treatises both in Latin and English, with great learning and piety.—Falle's Account of the island of Jersey, 2d ed. introduction, p. 28, 29.—A letter to him by Mons. De l'Angle. Kennet's Reg. 466.
On the floor, behind the high altar.
"Here lyeth the body of Daniel Brevint, D. D. late dean of this cathedral church of Lincoln, who departed this life May 5, 1695. I have waited for thy salvation, O Lord."
.
FITZHERBERT ADAMS, D. D. was installed the 8th of June, 1695, being removed from the sixth stall
See page 193.
: He was also removed from this stall to the eleventh.
WILLIAM HARTWELL, D. D. was installed the 14th of June, 1711, being removed from the ninth stall
See page 206.
. He died the 1st of June, 1725.
GEORGE SAYER, A. M. was installed the 30th of June, 1725. He was the son of George Sayer, of Doctor's Commons, and brother of Dr Exton Sayer, spiritual chancellor of Durham
Grievous charges are brought by Mr Spearman, in his Enquiry, against both these persons, for their violent exertions of the bishop's rights.
: This family sprung from Croft in Yorkshire. Mr George Sayer, the prebendary, was of Oriel College, where he took a master of arts degree, the 14th of December, 1719; and that of doctor in divinity, the 5th of May, 1735. He was chaplain to bishop Talbot, and married a daughter of archbishop Potter: Was collated to the vicarage of Witham, in Essex, by bishop Robinson, in 1722, which he resigned in 1732: In 1730, was collated to the archdeaconry of Northumberland, with Easington, on which he agreed to resign this stall, but bishop Talbot's death intervening, it was not surrendered till the 26th of September, 1732, to bishop Chandler, he having applied to the crown for confirmation of the above preferments: He died at Brussels in 1761, having retired thither on account of his embarrassed circumstances.
THOMAS SHARP, D. D. was installed the 1st of December, 1732. He was a younger son of archbishop Sharp; was admitted of Trinity College, about the year 1708, aet. 15; where he obtained the degree of doctor in divinity, In 1729, and was fellow: He was chaplain to archbishop Dawes; and on the 19th of July, 1720, was collated to the rectory of Rothbury, in the county of Northumberland: He held the prebend of Southwell, and afterwards that of Wistow, in York cathedral: In 1722, was collated to the archdeaconry of Northumberland; and in 1755, succeeded Dr Mangey, in the officialty of the dean and chapter: He departed this life on the 16th of March, 1758, and was interred in this cathedral, in the place called the Gallilee
Installed by proxy, the 1st of October, but not in full chapter; installed personally the 1st of December following. He made a speech the 6th of July, 1753, to Richard lord bishop of Durham, on his first visiting his diocese.—He married Sir George Wheler's daughter: She died the 2d of July, 1757.
.
Sir HENRY VANE, Bart. LL. D. was installed the 5th of April, 1758. He was the third son of George Vane,
Esq
of Long-Newton; educated at Durham school, from whence he was entered of Trinity College, and there had a fellowship: Was chaplain to bishop Trevor, and on the 21st of April, 1754, was inducted to Stainton, in this county; on the 7th of July, 1761, was admitted to the degree of doctor of laws: He exchanged Stainton for Long-Newton, which he now enjoys. In 178 was created a baronet.
PREBENDARIES OF THE ELEVENTH STALL
Lands &c. assigned to the eleventh stall.
Statutis.
Firma Manerij do Howghall
16
0
0
Act. capituli
Decimae Garbarum de Morton, infra paroch. de Dalton
5
6
8
 
Decimae Garbarum de Bedlington, in Northumb.
9
0
0
Lib. Recept. solvuntur capitulo quotannis ab undecimo canon. pro decimis Garbar. & Foeni de Houghall
2
0
0
 
Et pro decimis privatis omnibus preter decimas servientium
1
0
0
.
ROBERT BENNET, a monk, and bursar of this convent at the dissolution, appointed by the foundation, the 12th of May, 1541. He was instituted to the vicarage of Gainford on the 18th of December, 1558, and departed this life in August, 1558.
ANTHONY SALVIN, B. D. was installed the 12th of October, 1558, being removed from the twelfth stall, in which year he was made vicar general on Dr Hyndmers' death: He was a younger son of Gerrard Salvyn, of Croxdale, in this county; was collated to a prebend in Norton church, the 10th of May, 1544; master of Sherburn hospital, in 1552; and held the rectories of Winston and Ryton, which he resigned on being collated to Sedgefield, on the 20th of December, in the year 1558; but was soon after deprived of all his ecclesiastical preferments, and sentenced not to depart five miles northward of Kirby-moor-side, in the county of York, or to go to the city of York: He is noted as a person well esteemed in the country, but a man of mean erudition
Deprived by royal visitation, 1559. Reg. Horne.—He is called Sabryn. Strype's Eliz. p. 242. Stryp
Ann. vol. i. 242, 276.—Brown Willis, 273.— One of his name was chosen master of University College, Oxford, 1
7. Le Neve, 480.—Rector of Winston, the 23d of September, 1545.—Master of Sherburn hospital, the
th of August, 1552.—Rector of Ryton, the
8th of April, 1558.—He was sent up as proxy for the chapter, appeal before cardinal Pole and the queen's commissioners, the 30th of October, 1556, when the correct statutes of the cathedral were made.
.
JOHN HENSHAW, or HENNESHEY, clerk, was presented by queen Elizabeth,
sede vacante,
and installed the 29th of November, 1559. He died the next year
Per visit. D'me Eliz. reginae. Reg. Horne, p. 119. Instituted by Dr Edwin Sandys, and Dr Henry Har
y bishop Tunstal being dead. His proxy for installment, dated the 2d of May, 1559, under the seal of William Rokeby, archdeacon of the East Riding of Yorkshire.
.
ADAM HOLYDAY was installed the 3d of January, 1560. He was presented by queen Elizabeth,
sede vacante,
and admitted by Dr Watson and Dr John Crawforth, who were guardians of the spiritualties of this See, by a commission from the chapter of York, that See being then vacant by the deprivation of the archbishop, and the dean being abroad in foreign parts. The same year the queen presented him to the rectory of Bishop-Weremouth; and in 1561, he was appointed by the chapter to collect the queen's tenths
It is remarkable, that Holyday, as well as Adam Shepherd of the eighth stall, and Stevenson of the ninth stall, were admitted by commission from the chapter of York; this must have been owing to the difficulties of those times. The queen had deprived the archbishop, and Tunstall was dead, and the chapter here obnoxious to the queen, and probably fearful of doing any thing that might create dispute with the chapter of York, it was complied with as a compromise on both sides.
. His successor was
CLEMENT COLEMORE, LL.D. who was installed the 9th of May, 1590. He was ordained a deacon by bishop Barnes, the 22d of December, 1583; and received priest's orders the 20th of December, 1584, then being spiritual chancellor and vicar general of this diocese
The 7th of February, 1582, I meet with him as spiritual chancellor.
: He was fellow of Brazen-Nose College, and proctor in 1578; and on the 5th of July, 1582, was admitted to the degree of doctor of civil law: Was instituted to Brancepeth on the 15th of April, 1584; was made prebendary of Gaia Major, in Litchfield church, the 13th of February, 1586; and departed this life on the 18th of June, 1689, aet. 69, and was interred in this cathedral
He was made spiritual chancellor by bishop Barnes, 1579, and continued so forty years.—His wife died in child-bed, 1592, and dean Matthew preached her funeral sermon on Gen. xxxv. 16 and 21, as appears by his diary.
EPITAPH.
Pie memoriae clarissimi viri Clementis Colemore, legum doctoris, Aenca nasensis olim collegij socij, & almae academiae Oxoniensis procuratoris, dein legum doctoris & episcopatus Dunelmensis cancellarij per 37 annos, etiam invidia favente, integerrimi ejusdem eccl. prehendarij doctissimi, hoc monumentum moestissimi filij posuerunt. Obiit A. D. 1619, Aetatis suae 69, Junij 18, suorum, patriae, pauperum, omniumque Quibus tam rara probitas, pietasque non potuit, non innotescere, longus dolor. Scio quod redemptor meus vivit. Dom. Jesu veni cito.
.
FERDINANDO MOORCROFT, A. M. was collated the 14th of July, 1619, being removed from the sixth stall
See page 191.
. He died about the year 1641.
RALPH BROWNRIGG, D. D. succeeded about 1641. He was chaplain to bishop Morton, who gave him the archdeaconry of Coventry, in 1631; was prebendary of Ely, in the fifth stall, 1621; rector of Baily, and master of the Temple; and elected to the bishopric of Exeter, the 31st of March, 1642. He departed this life on the 7th day of December, 1659, and was buried in the Temple church
He paid to the library 6l. 13s. 4d.—His life was written by bishop Gauden.—Ath. Oxon. vol. i. f. p. 245. —Newcourt's Rep. vol. i. p. 547.—Lloyd's Memoirs, p. 404.—Collier's Eccl. Hist. vol. ii. p. 772, &c.—Fuller's Worthies, 780—Baxter's Life, 172, 174.—Walker's Suff. Clergy, vol. ii. p. 23.—Dr Gauden preached his funeral sermon, 2 Kings. ii. 12.—Brown Willis says he was master of Catherine Hall, but Dr Ellison makes him master of Pembroke Hall.—He had no enjoyment either of his prebend or bishopric.
EPITAPH.
Sumptibus & auspiciis honorab. societat. Templi, subtus positas sunt reliquiae Radolphi Brounrici, S. T. D. cant. reverendiss. episc. exon. quem honorem optime meruit, & per annos xix tenuit, malo tamen seculi sato (bellis, schismatibus, sacrilegiis & regicidibus ferocien) nunquam exercuit. Tandem anno aetatis lxvii. provinciam terrestrem nondum visam deserens, ad caelestem migravit aera Christi MDCLIX. illucescente Car. II. faelicissimo reditu.
L. M. P. J. G. Episc. Exon. electus.
.
THOMAS WOOD, D. D. was presented by king Charles II.
sede vacante,
the 7th of July, and installed the 10th of December, 1660. He was born at Hackney, and received his first rudiments, at Westminster school, from whence he was elected student of Christ-Church, Oxford, in 1627; and was admitted to the degree of doctor in divinity, in 1641: Was made chaplain in ordinary to king Charles I. when he was twenty-eight years of age, and collated to the rectory of Whickham on the 2d of July, 1635. He travelled to Rome during the Rebellion, and soon after the Restoration was made chaplain to king Charles II. In 1663, was appointed to the deanry of Litchfield; and in 1671, was consecrated bishop of that diocese, and held this prebend
in commendam:
He died at Astrop Wells, in Northamptonshire, on the 18th of April, 1692, and was interred at Ufford, in Suffolk
Ath. Oxon. vol. ii.—1176. His petition to the House of Lords at the Restoration, Kennet's Reg. 161, 183, Archbishop Sancroft suspended him for not repairing to his diocese.
Bishop Wood, by his will dated the 11th of November, 1690, devised certain lands in the county of Huntingdon, to trustees upon trust, that they, &c. should from time to time, dispose of the rents of the said lands to all the senior masters, students for the time being for ever thereafter, of and in Christ-Church College, in Oxford, equally to be divided amongst them, share and share alike for their respective maintenances, during all such time as they should continue students in the said college, and profess the Protestant religion of the church of England, &c. He also bequeathed to the same trustees 3000l. to be paid out of the arrears of his High Suffolk estate, or other his personal estate, upon trust, to lay out the same in the purchase of lands, &c. and after the purchasing thereof, to pay the rents of such lands to all the junior masters, students for the time being in Christ-Church College, Oxon, during all such time as they should profess the Protestant religion of the church of England, &c. and should continue in the college, &c. &c.—For charities given by this will to the city of Durham, see this volume, page 58; and to Chester and Whickham, vide the sequel.
He was compelled in Michaelmas term, 1685, by decree in Chancery, to pay to Charles Fitz-Roy, duke of Southampton▪ who married Mary, the sole daughter and heiress of his elder brother, Sir Henry Wood, 30,000l. as part of his lady's fortune. Collins's Peerage, vol. i.
.
JOHN MONTAGUE, D. D. was installed the 3d of June, 1692, being removed from the fourth stall
See page 169 and 185
.
.
THEOPHILUS PICKERING, D. D. was installed the 1st of February, 1699, being removed from the fourth stall
See page 185.
. He died the 20th of March, 1710.
FITZHERBERT ADAMS, D. D. was installed on the 14th of April, 1711, being removed from the tenth stall
See page 193 and 210.
. He died the 12th of June, 1719.
JOHN DOLBEN, D. D. was installed the 18th of July, 1719, being removed from the sixth stall
See page 194.
. He died the 21st of November, 1756.
WADHAM KNATCHBULL, LL. D. was installed the 8th of January, 1757, being removed from the twelfth stall. He was the third son of Sir Edward Knatchbull, of Mershamhatch, in the county of Kent, Bart. a fellow of Trinity Hall, Cambridge, and took a degree of doctor of laws in July, 1741; was chaplain to bishop Chandler; and in 1738, inducted to the family living of Chilham, in Kent. He departed this life on the 27th of December, 1760, and was interred in the Galilee of this cathedral
M. S.
WADHAMI KNATCHBULL, I. C. D.
D'ni Edwardi Knatchbull, de Mershamhatch, in com. Cant. Baronetti,
Filij natu tertij
Ecclesiae de Chilham in eodem com. vicarij,
Et canonicatus ximi. in hac ecclesia canonici;
Viri pij, probi, erga omnes benevoli;
Excellenti ingenio, multiplici doctrinâ,
Moribus candidissimis et integerrimis praediti;
Corpore infirmo, animo aequo et imperturbato,
Per omnem fere vitae cursum cum adversâ valetudine conflictatus
Ad aeternam requiem migravit xxvijmo. die Decembris
Anno D'ni MDCCLX, aetatis suae LIV.
Uxorem duxit Harriottam
Caroli Parry de Oakfield, in com. Berks, armi filiam
Quam cum tribus filiis, et filiabus duabus reliquit superstitem.
Post hunc parietem in capellae adjacente
Conduntur reliquiae
Composed by Dr Lowth, preb. of Durham, bishop of Oxford, and now bishop of London.
.
.
SAMUEL DICKENS, D. D. was installed the 19th of March, 1761, being removed from the twelfth stall: Was a student of Christ-Church, Oxford, and chaplain to bishop Trevor: On the 9th of July, 1743, was admitted to a degree of master of arts, and bachelor in divinity, on the 25th of October, 1752; and that of doctor in divinity, the 20th of June, 1753: In the year 1752, he was proctor of the university; and in 1754, was made the king's Greek professor: He was made official to the dean and chapter of Durham, in 1760; and on the 8th of January, 1762, was appointed archdeacon of Durham, with the rectory of Easington annexed.
PREBENDARIES OF THE TWELFTH STALL
Lands, &c. assigned to the twelfth stall.
Statutis.
Domus manerij de Bewly, cum firma mansionis firmarij ibidem cum terris Dominicalibus, &c.
10
3
4
 
Capitulo antiq. solvend.
2
3
4
Act. capituli
Decimae de Westoe, infra paroch. de Jarrow, p' ann.
6
18
6
 
Decimae de Willington in eadem
3
13
4
 
Decimae de Moncton, ib'm
2
10
6
 
Decimae de Sheelheugh, ib'm
1
1
6
Lib. receptoris. Solvit duodecimus canonicus capitulo quotannis per le rent hens, viz. 6 galin. 6 capon. 6 anser.
0
7
0
.
WILLIAM WATSON, a monk of Durham, by the foundation, the 12th of May, 1541: He died in the year 1556.
ANTHONY SALVIN, B. D. was collated the 12th, and installed the 16th of October, 1556, and removed to the eleventh stall
See page 211.
.
GEORGE CLIFFE, B. D. was collated by queen Mary, the 13th of September, 1558. Was instituted to the vicarage of Billingham, the 29th of May, 1560, whereof he was deprived in 1565: Was collated to the rectory of Elwick, the 17th June, 1562; and instituted to Brancepeth rectory, the 29th of March, 1571, which he resigned in 1584; and was again instituted to Billingham, the 11th of January, 1684. He died in 1695
Dr Roger Watson, and Dr Jo. Crawforth, during the vacancy of the Sees of York and Durham, were guardians of the spiritualties of Durham, by a commission granted to them from the chapter of York.—Dean Horn's Reg. p. 120, 122.—Whittingham's Reg. p. 214.—He was joined with Dr W. Todd, in the patent or commission of officialty, by Dr Horn and the Chapter, the 10th of December, 1560. 2 reg. s. 131.—He was appointed by D. Skynner and the Chapter, to collect the tenths and subsidies exacted by queen Elizabeth, the 24th of May, 1561.
.
HENRY EWBANKE, A. M. was installed the 8th of September, 1596; and resigned the same, the 5th of October, 1620: Was collated to Washington, the 24th of December, 1583; and to Winston in 1588; was instituted to St Mary's hospital in Newcastle, the 15th of March, 1585, which he resigned in 1615: He was prebendary of Gaia Minor, in Litchfield church, in 1581; and was removed to Weeford prebend, in the same church, 1586; and resigned the latter, 1612: Was collated to the rectory of Whickham, on the 5th of September, 1620; and departed this life in 1628
In the south aile of Durham cathedral, was an inscription for one Ewbanke, who died rector of Ryton, about 1620. Willis's Cath.
It is said he left 500l. per ann. at his death.—He married his daughter to William James, in whose favour he resigned his stall.—He had the next presentation to this prebend, granted him in 1589. Matthew's Reg. 236, 469. James's Reg. 89.—On presentation to St Mary's hospital, he gave bond to the mayor and burgesses of Newcastle, in the penalty of 100l. with a condition that he should, at his own expence, maintain a school
master for freemen's children, without salary, save 6d. a quarter; to preach yearly twelve sermons; and to keep the hospital, chapel, and buildings in repair: For non-performance, a suit was instituted, and the penalty
ecovered.
Grey's Notes, MSS.
.
WILLIAM JAMES, A. M. was installed the 6th of October, 1620. He was nearly related to bishop James, and was public orator at Oxford, in 1601; was collated to Craike, on the 10th of July, 1614; to Washington, on the 12th of September, 1616; to Ryton, in May 1617; and to Merrington, in August, 1629. He rebuilt his prebendal house; was one of the proxies for the chapter, at the convocation at York, 1625; and one of the prebendaries who supported the canopy over the head of king Charles I. when at Durham. He died in the month of January, 1659, and was interred in this cathedral
Ath. Oxon. vol. i. p. 421.—Hunt's Reg.
.
GUY CARLETON, D. D. was presented by king Charles II.
sede vacante,
and installed the 2d of November, 1660: Was born at Brampton Foot, in Gilsland, in the county of Cumberland, and was educated at Carlisle, from whence he was sent to Queen's College, Oxford; was fellow thereof, and proctor of the university, in 1635: He held the vicarage of Bucklersbury, in Berkshire: Was collated to Wolsingham, in November, 1660, and the same year had the deanry of Carlisle: In 1671, was consecrated bishop of Bristol; and, in 1678, was translated to the bishopric of Chichester, holding this prebend
in commendam:
He departed this life on the 6th of July, 1685, aet. 80, and was buried in his cathedral church
Ath. Oxon. vol. ii. 1168.—Kennet's Reg. 303.—
Walker's Suff. Clergy, part ii. p. 214.
.
JOHN MORTON, D. D. was installed the 18th of July, 1685, being removed from the sixth stall
See page 19
.
. He died in 1722.
THOMAS RUNDLE, LL. B. was installed the 3d of December, 1722, being removed from the first stall
See page 173.
. He died in 1743.
WADHAM CHANDLER, A. M. was installed the 21st of July, 1735: Was the youngest son of bishop Chandler; received his first rudiments at Eton school, from whence he was admitted in Clare Hall, Cambridge: Was appointed spiritual chancellor of this diocese, in September, 1731; collated to Bishop-Weremouth, in May, 1732: In July, 1733, was inducted to Washington; and made master of Sherburn hospital, in 1735, whereby he vacated his two rectories: He died at Aix, in France, the 2d of June, 1737, and his remains were brought over to be interred in the Gallilee of this cathedral.
WADHAM KNATCHBULL, LL. D. was installed the 17th of June, 1738, and removed to the eleventh stall
See page 213.
.
SAMUEL DICKENS, D. D. was installed the 8th of January, 1757, and removed to the eleventh stall
See page 214.
.
THOMAS BURTON, D. D. was installed the 11th of May, 1761, being removed from the third stall
See page 182.
. He departed this life in 1767.
EDMUND LAW, D. D. was installed the 8th of August, 1767: Was of St John's College, Cambridge, but invited to Christ's, and chosen a fellow of that society: Was one of the Zodiack, as a set of learned and ingenious young men in the university were then called, and distinguished himself very early by writing on the Being and Attributes of God; and especially in his notes on his translation of archbishop King's
Origin of Evil;
wherein our ideas of space, time, and immensity, and the self-existence, necessary existence, and unity of God, are more accurately enquired into, and discussed with greater clearness and precision, than by any writer before or since, on such abstruse metaphysical subjects. He was also principally concerned in publishing an excellent edition of
Stephens's Thesaurus.
In 1739, he accepted the rectory of Graystoke, to which he was presented by the university. When Mr Howard, now duke of Norfolk, sold the advowson, he stipulated with the purchaser in favour of Mr Law, for a presentation from a Protestant patron. Mr Law accordingly resigned this rectory, and had a new presentation from Dr Askew, the purchaser. This allowed him to remove to Salkeld, the corps of the archdeaconry of Carlisle, a much more healthy situation, given him by bishop Fleming. While in Cumberland, he published
Considerations on the Theory of Religion,
which has gone through several editions;
Litigiousness repugnant to the Laws of Christianity,
an assize sermon, at Carlisle, and a charge on the
Nature and Necessity of Catechising.
In 1747, he proceeded to doctor in divinity: The divinity school was unusually crowded, and the rigidly orthodox were so alarmed at his question, that it gave occasion to much altercation afterwards, in a variety of publications; but he himself, unwilling to give further offence,
thought it a part of Christian prudence not to be more explicit on the subject, till men appear more willing to submit their vain philosophy to the authority of God's word, and are disposed to examine things with greater attention and impartiality; concluding in the words of honest bishop Taylor, that he had been so pushed at by herds and flocks of people, that follow any body that whistles to them, or drives them to pasture, that he was grown afraid of any truth that seemed chargeable with singularity.
In 1755, he returned to Cambridge, having been chosen master of St Peter's College, when he resigned the archdeaconry, but kept the rectory. He served the office of vice-chancellor, in 1756, and, having a numerous family, he afterwards accepted the office of principal librarian, and that of casuistical professor; and had also the archdeaconry of Stafford, and a stall in the church of Lincoln, given him on his promotion to the See of Carlisle, in 1769; he kept the headship of his college, and had the rectory of Greystoke
in commendam.
— He published only two or three sermons afterwards; but, though advanced to a great age, such was his veneration for the great Mr Locke, and his love for freedom of enquiry, that he surprised the world with an excellent edition of the works of that great philosopher in four volumes, folio.—He is still living.
JOHN ROSS, D. D. was installed the 17th of March, 1769. He was born at Ross, in the county of Hereford, and was fellow of St John's College, Cambridge; was preacher at the Rolls chapel, and private tutor to Thomas viscount Weymouth, who presented him to the vicarage of Frome Zalwood, in Somersetshire: He was chaplain to the king, by whom he was presented to this prebend, on the 28th of February, preceding his installation. In 1777, was consecrated bishop of Exeter, when he resigned this stall, and was succeeded by
THOMAS DAMPIER, D. D. (son to the late dean) who was installed the 26th of February, 1778; succeeded his father as master of Sherburn hospital; and is now dean of Rochester.
ARCHDEACONS OF DURHAM
The value of this dignity, with the rectory of Easington annexed, was rated for first fruits, A. D. 1534, at 1000l.
.
LEOBWIN, or LEOFWYN, seems to have been the first archdeacon, by whose misconduct the murder of bishop Walcher was occasioned. Le Neve says, thence
the very name of archdeacon grew so mighty odious to the people, that the succeeding bishop thought proper at that time to sink the title, and vest the power in the prior of Dunholme; but, after some time, the memory thereof being pretty much worn away, the title and office were resumed, and this seems to be about the year 1188.
ALDWIN, who dying the 12th of April, 1087, was succeeded by
TURGOT, on whose being made bishop of St Andrew's, in Scotland, in the year 1108
Nich. Hist. Libr &c. He was preferred to this dignity by William de Carilepho, qui Ao . 1094 decrevit, ut prior monasterij Dunelm. totius dioceseos archidiaconus esset in p'petuum, et episcopi in spiritualibus vicarius & in temporalibus, &c.
,
MICHAEL succeeded in bishop Ralph's time, and resumed the title and office, as a distinct person from the prior of Durham
Ab eo tempore quo Turgotus, consecratus erat quando Algarus priorat. accepit. hic postea suit archiep. Cant.—He is a witness to a deed of bishop Ralph's. Hist. Dunelm. Claudius D. 4.
.
ROBERT DE ST AGATHA occurs Ao 1129, and 1131
Tempus incertum sed videtur quod ex p'te Will'mi Comyn stetit annis 1140, 1141, 1142, ut narrat. monachus anonymus scriptor. Hist. Dunelm.
.
WAROW, or WAZO, succeeded in the year 1147
Contraversiam inter hunc & priorem Rogerum de tenenda episcopi dextra diremit Will. de S'ca Barbara, data charta, 1 Dec. 1147. Hist. Dunelm. Claudius, D. 4.
. As did
RANNULPH, about 1150
Quere, Whether archdeacon of Durham or Northumberland; he was nephew to bishop Ranulph.— Ranulphum & Wasonem archidiaconos simul extitisse constat, 1153. Quare potius Catalago archd. North. adjudicandus est.
. And
LAWRENCE, D. D. An. 1153. He and Laurence the prior went to Rome, to defend the election of Hugh Pudsey to this See. Obiit 11th of April, 1176. After him occurs
WILLIAM, in the year 1174
Cartular S. Albani, MSS. Cotton, Tiberius, s. 6. f. 116.
.
JOHN, subjoined by this title as witness to a deed of bishop Hugh's, about 1180
Mon. Ang. tom. i. p. 513.
.
BURCHARD DE PUDSEY occurs about 1109, and died possessed of this dignity, the 6th of December, 1196
Burchard archd. is witness to a charter of bishop Hugh Pudsey. MSS. Eccl. Dun.
Hugh Pudsey, made a second natural son of his archdeacon—He was also chancellor to the king of France. Goodw. Finchale was given him by the prior and convent of Durham, which he afterwards resigned. Lel. Col. vol. i. part ii. p. 533.
.
AIMERICK DE TALBOYS, nephew to bishop Philip de Poictiers, whom I find possessed in 1198 and 1214, next year after which he is said to be appointed high-sheriff of Northumberland
Annal. Dunelm. MSS. Cotton. The same person by this title had a prebend in the church of Litchfield, conferred on him by the king, 18th of February, 1213. Le Neve.—Fuller's Worth. North.
.
SYMEON occurs archdeacon of Durham, with Alanus, archdeacon of Northumberland, witnesses to a grant of bishop Richard, the 6th of May, 1218.
WILLIAM occurs in 1219. Willis says,
I take him to be the same with William de Lanim, whom I meet with in 1226 and 1236; he died, as I find by a note, An. 1249.
Le Neve tells us it appears, he
Was archdeacon of Dunholme, in 1219, by an ancient inscription in a window, in the hall of University College, Oxford:
He adds,
I believe this was the same with W. de Lanim, if so, I hear of him again 1234
Claus, 19. K.
. 3. m. 13.—Wood's Ath. Oxon. part ii. p. 53, 56.—Fuller's Worth. p. 29.—Univers. Col Ox. caepit sub Aluredo rege restaurat. p' Gul. archd. Dunelm. circa An. 1249. Camb. Brit. vol. i. 308.— Ayliff's ancient and present State of Oxford, vol. i. p. 248.
.
THOMAS DE ANESTY was possessed in 1250. Le Neve says, he was also archdeacon of Northumberland
Newcourt's Rep. vol. i. p. 125.
.
RICHARD or ROBERT DE SANCTA AGATHA, archdeacon of Durham, was collector of the tenths in the diocese of Durham, the 7th of September, 1266
Angl. Sac. (Richard) vol. i. p. 740.
; he occurs as witness to a charter in 1271, by the name of Robert
In charta Dec. et capit. Dun. 1271. Hic in capella de Aukland coram ep'o Rob'to de Stichil recognovit priorem Dunel. fuisse archidiaconum in ecclesijs sibi appropriatis infra Aquas Tyne & Tees, & archidiac, predecessores suos nomina prioris & non proprio jurisdictionem in illis eccl. exercuisse & propter hoc priori penc'onem annuam exolvisse, &c.
.
ANTHONY BECK held this dignity in 1275 and 1283, in which latter year he was consecrated bishop of Durham
Rymer, vol. ii. p. 49, 237.—See vol. i. p. 228.
, and was succeeded by
WILLIAM DE LUDA,
anglice
Lowth, who held it in 1284; and being made bishop of Ely, in 1290
Collect. Fr. Clarke, f. 333, B.—Decanus Sti. Martini London. & regis Edwardi Camerarius, Thesaurarius, et Clericus Garderobae. Ob. 25 Mar. 1298.
, was succeeded by
S. DE FARLINGTON, who held it in 1296.
WM DE S. BOTULPHO occurs in 1300 and 1308
Randal's Notes to Le Neve.—Is witness to a deed of confirm made by the dean and chapter of Durham, the 14th of August, 1208.
.
THOMAS DE GOLDESBURGH occurs in 1311
Reg. Greenfeld Ebor.
: He died in 1333, whereupon the bishop conferred this dignity on his nephew Aumerick de Bellomonte, but the king disapproving of this appointment, nominated thereto
ROBERT DE TAUNTON; but whether he enjoyed the office seems uncertain, though the king repeated his patent by way of confirmation: He dying in 1335
Can. Eccl'iae Sti Pauli, London.—Pat. 7. K. Ed. 3. p. 2.—Pat. 8. K. Ed. 3. p. 1.—
Newcourt, vol. i. p. 220.
, the next who occurs is
AUMERICK DE BELLOMONTE, in 1336 and 1338. His successor was
THO. DE NEVILL, who occurs in July 1340 and 1356. He died in the year 1362; was prebendary of Bole, in the church of York; a prebendary of Hoveden; and also of Darlington, in this diocese, and rector of Thorp-Basset, in the county of York.
WILLIAM DE WESTLEE next occurs, in 1362; he was temp. chancellor
Vid. Reg. Hatfield, f. 57.
.
ALEXANDER DE NEVILL occurs the 12th of January, 1370. It seems doubtful whether this was the same person who was preferred to the See of York, in 1374, as Willis tells us;—no such person is named by Le Neve
Dissentionem orta inter regem Richardum 2dum et Barones, hic patriam reliquit & secessit Brabantiam ubi obiit exul circa Majum in Lavantia. Grey's Notes, MSS.
.
GABEVAN is the next on the list, a Roman cardinal, noted by Fox in his Martyrs, vol. i. p. 563, who informs us he held the office in 1378: But this is an error of our author, for by the Parliament Rolls, 50 king Edward III. an. 1376, it appears,
Communes in Parliamento inter alia regni gravamina queruntur quod Jacobus de Ursinis cardinalis quidam Romanus, archidiaconatum Dunelm. tenuit.
WILLIAM DE BASINSTOKE, otherwise called Mundy de Basingstoke, was collated the 13th of August, 1379
Hatfield's Reg. 160 and 167. Ao . 1379, vocat. archid.
.
AGAPITUS DE COLUMPNA CARDINALIS S. PRISCAE held it in 1380, as we learn from Rym. Foedera, vol vii. p. 276: In which authority
PILEUS Cardinalis S. Praxedis is mentioned the 11th of July, 1381
Page 320.
. He being presented by the king during a vacancy of the See.
THOMAS DE WESTON, prebendary of Grindal, in the church of York, and one of the prebendaries of Hoveden, held this office in 1393; and dying in the year 1408
An. 1
97. p' resign. T. de la Warr, canonicus factus est in ecclesia Ebor. & tenuit prebendam de Grindall.
, was succeeded by
ALAN DE NEWARKE, who resigned on the 15th of February, in the same year.
JOHN HOVINGHAM, LL. D. was collated the 16th of February, 1408; and occurs possessed of this office, the 4th of May, 1416
Rymer, vol. ix. p. 80, 343.
.
JOHN KEMPE succeeded the 13th of October, 1417; on whose promotion to the See of Rochester, an. 1419
Afterwards successively bishop of Chichester, London, York, and Canterbury, and
tavice
cardinal. Fuller's Worth. Kent.
,
ROBERT GILBERT was promoted by the crown, and we find him possessed thereof in 1420. In the year 1436, he was consecrated bishop of London, but who succeeded him here is uncertain: One Robert Rollinson is named, but no authority appears.
WILLIAM LE SCROOPE was promoted to this dignity in 1437, and held it twenty-six years: He died the 5th of May, 1463, and was buried in York cathedral
EPITAPH.
Hic jacet Mr Will de Scroop, archid. Dunelme ac residentiarius in Eccl. Coll. Sancti Johannia Beverlace & Sanct. W
idi, R
pon, qui obi
t xxij die Maij, 1
63, cujus animae propitietur Deus.
.
RALPH BOOTH, prebendary of Norton, occurs in 1463: It is probable that bishop Booth, who was consecrated in 1457, before his translation to York, collated Ralph to this dignity, as he did to the archdeaconry of York, in 1477: He held both to the time of his death, which happened in 1497: Was temporal chancellor of Durham.
THOMAS COLSTON, LL. B. next occurs; nephew to bishop Fox, who collated him the 20th of April, 1497
Reg. Fox, p' M. Bo
i
.
. He resigned, and
ROGER LEYBOURNE succeeded the 24th of January, 1499. He Was temporal chancellor of Durham, master of Pembroke Hall, Cambridge, a prebendary of York, and occurs archdeacon of York, on the 10th of September, 1503; and in the succeeding year, was consecrated bishop of Carlisle.
JOHN BOERNIUS, a Genoese clerk, was obtruded into this dignity by the pope: He resigned in 1515, but reserved to himself a pension of 50 l. per ann.
WILLIAM FRANKLEYN, B. D. occurs in 1531. He was both temporal and spiritual chancellor to the bishops Ruthall, Wolsey, and Tunstall; held the rectory of Houghton, in the fourteenth year of king Henry VIII. In the year 1538, was made dean of Windsor; and about the same time rector of Chalfonte, in the county of Bucks: In 1545, being master of St Giles's hospital, at Keypier, he surrendered the same into the king's hands, as also great part of the revenue of Windsor deanry; but being complained of for concealment, was obliged to surrender the entire deanry in 1553, keeping all his other preferments to the time of his death, which happened about the year 1555: The place of his interment is uncertain, but it is probable he was buried obscurely at St Giles's, Chalfonte
Ath. Oxon. vol. i. p. 703. Fast. 74.
.
BERNARD GILPIN, B. D. succeeded in this archdeaconry, in 1556, but quitted it in about four years;— the particulars of his life will be inserted under the head of Houghton parish, in the sequel.
JOHN EBDEN, B. D. and prebendary of Ely, was appointed by queen Elizabeth, during a vacancy of the See, on the 22d of May, 1560: Was proctor of the university of Cambridge, and had rich benefices in the diocese of Ely and Winchester, in the latter of which he was archdeacon: Did not hold his office in this church long
Newcourt, vol. i. p. 175.—Ath. Oxon. vol. i. Fast. 74.—
Rymer, vol. xv. p. 564.
In the chapel of Magdalen hospital, near Winchester, on a small plate of brass, fixed against the south wall of the chancel.
Corpus Johannis Ebden, sacrae theologiae professoris pii, ecclesiae cathedralis Winton, prebendarij docti, hujus hospitij magistri reverendi, qui inter alia dona in alios charitatis usus collata 200l. in augmentationem stipendiorum ibidem libere dedit, hoc tegitur tumulo.
Obiit 16 Novembris, 1614, aetatis suae 98.
He that both God and good men fear'd and lov'd,
Which by example cherisht or reprov'd,
Heer lyes enter'd. He living was, dead is,
A preacher whom the church lov'd, the people mys
His life for length, learning for truth was greate,
His doctrine pure, his deeds without deceite,
And in his life time was, and att his ende
To rich and poore a father and a freinde.
John Ebden, S. T. B. Proctor of the University, 1550.
Archdeacon of Durham, 22d May, 1560.
Coll. to the preb. of Mapesbury, in St Paul's ch. 13 Nov. 1563.
He exchanged his archd. with J. Pilkington.
Installed preb. 7 stall, Winch. 7 Dec. 1563.
Archd. of Winchester, 1571, resig. 1575.
Preb. in the 4th stall, Ely, 19th Dec. 1559.
Contd preb. of St Paul's till 1596.
Randall's MSS.
, for we find
JOHN PILKINGTON, B. D. brother and chaplain to bishop Pilkington, succeeded the 5th of December, 1563. He was interred in this cathedral, without any monument, Ao 1603
Strype's Eliz. p. 237.—Wood's Ath. Oxon. vol. i. f. 147.—Stryp. Ann. vol. i. p. 248. vol. ii. 482, 525.— Math. Reg. p. 133.
.
WILLIAM MORTON, B. D. was collated the 19th of November, 1603: Was rector of Long Newton, in 1588; and vicar of St Nicholas' church, in Newcastle, where he was interred, the 18th of July, 1620.
GABRIEL CLARKE, D. D. was collated the 9th of September, 1621. Died in 1662, and was buried in this cathedral
Vid. Prebendaries of the first stall, p. 171.
.
DENNIS GRANVILLE, D. D. succeeded, being collated the 16th of September, 1662: Was deprived in 1691
Vid. Deans, p. 167.
; and succeeded by
ROBERT BOOTHE, B. D. the 15th of May, 1691: Was dean of Bristol, where he died, and was interred the 18th of August, 1730.
GEORGE SAYER, A. M. succeeded on the 3d of November, 1730. He died in 1761
Vide Prebendaries of the tenth stall, p. 208.
, and was succeeded by
SAMUEL DICKENS, D. D. on the 8th of January, 1762
See page 214.
.
ARCHDEACONS OF NORTHUMBERLAND.
This dignity, with Howick rectory annexed, was valued, in 1534, at 36l. 13s. 4d.
RANULPH NEPOS E'PI RANULPHI, witness to the bishops charter,
sans
date, occurs in 1131.
ROBERT held this office in 1140, as did
RALPH, in the year 1141 and 1153, and
John Hagulstad.
WILLIAM, 1160.
DURAND enjoyed it in 1174
He was witness to a deed of bishop Pudsey's, in 1174,
Cartul. S. Albini.
MS.—Cotton.—Tiberius. f. 6. f. 116.
; we have then a great vacancy, for the first nominee that occurs is
RICHARD DE MARISCO, archdeacon of Richmond, and afterwards bishop of Durham, and lord chancellor, an. 4 Joh. regis, 1212; occurs again in 1223. He administered the oath to king John, which the sovereign took to the pope
Vide Sir R. Atkyn's State of Gloucestershire, p. 92.—Spelm. Gloss. p. 110.—By this title he had the king's letters of pres. to the church of Kemesey, diocese Wigorn, dated July, 1212. Pat. 14 Joh. m. 5. n. 12.
.
ALAN DE LENN is the next that occurs, in 1219
Rymer, vol. i p. 177, 196—Camden's Rem. 323.—Was appointed one of the king's proctors to treat about differences with the king of Scotland, the 21st July, 1219.—
Rymer, vol. i. p. 228.
.
THOMAS DE ANESTY was preferred thereto by the king, during the vacancy of the See, the 5th of April, 1248; and quitted it for the archdeaconry of Durham, in 1250.
THOMAS DE HEREFORD died possessed of the office, in August, 1253
Mat. Westm.
; and the next we find is
RICHARD DE MIDDLETON, the 23d of September, 1270; and after him
ROGER DE HERTBURN, in 1288; and
NICHOLAS DE WELLS, in 1310, and 1311
Reg. Grenefield Ebor.
.
ROBERT DE PICKERING, on the 12th of June, 1312: Was made dean of York
Vic. Gen. W. A'epi. Ebor. Rymer, vol. iii. p. 374.
, and it is probable quitted the archdeaconry in 1314, in favour of
THOMAS CHARLTON, LL. D. who was consecrated bishop of Hereford, in 1327
Rymer, vol. iii. 600, 617, 637.
, upon whose resignation
JOHN DE CHARLETON was presented by the king, the 16th of February, 1328
Rot. A. Hatfield, sch. 8.
.
EDMUND HOWARD occurs in the year 1343; and
WILLIAM DE SHREWSBURY, in 1353 and 1355
Pat. 2 Ed. III. p. 1.
: Was prebendary of Longden, and archdeacon of Salop, in Litchfield cathedral.
JOHN DE BAMBURGH occurs in 1361
Reg. Hatfield, p. 55. Rymer, vol. vi. p. 373.
; and was succeeded by
RICHARD DE BARNARDCASTLE, who was collated the 10th of September, 1362: Was temporal chancellor of this palatine, and seems to be the same person that erected the shrine of St Bede, and was interred near thereto. He resigned for the deanry of Auckland, in 1369.
THOMAS DUFFIELD was collated the 19th of August, 1369
Pat. 44, king Ed. III. p. 2, 3.—Hatfield's Reg. f. 68.—He was dean of Chester-in-the-Street. 139
.
.
WILLIAM DE BEVERLEY succeeded by exchange, in January, 1369: Was prebendary of Stillington, in York cathedral.
JOHN DE DERBY was presented by king Edward III. during a vacancy of the See, the 9th of February, 1370, and William de Beverley was ejected
Reg. Hatfield, p. 67.
.
JOHN REFAME occurs in 1386 and 1397
Reg. Lond.
.
JOHN DE DALTON, in 1409.
JOHN RICHARDSON resigned in 1410.
HENRY ELTON succeeded, and soon after resigned
Reg. Langley, f. 51.
to
JOHN RICKENGALE, who possessed it a very short time; for we find he resigned it in favour of
JOHN AKUM, in 1411; and on his resignation
JOHN RICKENGALE again had this office: Was made bishop of Chester
Vide Cart. &c. Libellus prior & conventus. John de Rykenhale, & ibi multa notabilia de jurisdic'one officialis prior & con. Grey's Notes, MSS.
, 1426.
ROBERT BURTON, D. D. occurs in 1421
Randall's MS Notes on Le Neve.
.
MARMADUKE LUMLEY occurs in 1422 and 1427: Was precentor of Lincoln, rector of Stepney, in Middlesex, and of Charius, in Kent: In 1430, was consecrated bishop of Carlisle; and in 1450, was translated to the bishopric of Lincoln. He died in 1451
Vide Hist. West. and Cumb. vol. ii. p. 273.
.
ROBERT BURTON occurs again in 1427, on the resignation of Lumley
Grey's Notes, MSS.
; and
WILLIAM GRAY occurs in 1448
Ibidem.
.
JOHN BURNE occurs in 1464.
ROBERT MASON, LL. D. occurs in 1481. He was precentor of Lincoln, master of Trinity Hall, Cambridge
Grey's Notes, MSS.
, and prebendary of Farendon; was also one of the prebendaries of Norton in this county; died possessed of this dignity in 1493, and was interred in Lincoln cathedral
EPITAPH.
Orate pro anima magistri Roberti Mason, legum doctoris, archidiaconi Northumbriae, et precentoris hujus ecclesiae qui obiit, Anno Dom. 1493.
.
RALPH SCROPE instituted the 23d of February, 1493: Was prebendary of North Kelsey, or Ailesbury, or perhaps both successively, in Lincoln cathedral, and rector of Hambledon, in Bucks: Was succeeded by
ROBERT DAVELL, or DOVELL, LL. D. who appears possessed of this dignity in 1518 and 1541: Was a canon of Exeter, and had Holm prebend, in York, the 29th of May, 1541. He died in the year 1557
Ath. Oxon. vol. i. p. 671.
.
WILLIAM CARTER, D. D. was collated the 3d of November, 1558: He was deprived, and sentenced to remain at Thirsk, or within ten miles, on account of his recusancy
Stryp. Eliz. p. 241. Stryp. Ann. vol. i. 275.
: Died at Mechlin, in Brabant, in the year 1578.
WILLIAM KINGE, B. D. of King's College, Cambridge: Was presented by queen Elizabeth, the 1st of January, 1560, being her chaplain
Rymer, vol. xv. p 563.
: Was prebendary of Canterbury and Windsor, at the latter of which places he died, and was interred the 23d of September, 1590
Somner's Antiq. Canterb. p. 128.
In St George's chapel, at Windsor.
Hic jacet Gulielmus Kynge, clericus, sacrae theologiae baccalaureus regiae majestatis capellanus ac prebendarius sive canonieus infra ecclesiam collegiatam sive liberam capellam regiam sancti Georgij in Castro de Wyndsor, qui obiit 23 die Septemb. Anno D'ni. 1790.
W. Kynge, B. D. preb. of Canterbury, (tenth stall) pres. 19 Jan. 1564.
Vicar of Appuldore.
Installed canon of Windsor, 1573.
: Was deprived of this archdeaconry for non-residence, some time before his death.
RALPH LEVER, A. M. was collated the 21st of October, 1566: Was a prebendary in the first stall of this church, resigned this dignity in the year 1573, and was succeeded by
FRANCIS BUNNEY, A. M. who was collated the 20th of October, 1573; resigned on being inducted to the rectory of Ryton.
JAMES BOLD, D. D. was collated the 25th of September, 1578: Was of Corpus-Christi College, Oxford, and admitted to the degree of doctor in divinity, in April, 1576: He resigned in 1581
Ath Oxon. vol. i. f. 113.
; and was succeeded by
RALPH TUNSTALL, A. M. who was collated the 29th of October, 1581: Was rector of Croft, in Yorkshire, and prebendary of this church, in the tenth stall
The registry is deficient; and who was the immediate successor of Tunstall is not known. He died before the 6th of March, 1618.
.
JOHN CRADOCK, A. M. vicar of Gainford: Was collated in 1619, and resigned on being appointed to the fifth stall in this church
Ath. Oxon. vol. i. p. 740, 813.
.
GABRIEL CLARKE, D. D. was collated the 7th of August, 1619. In September, 1621, was appointed archdeacon of Durham, and resigned Northumberland. He was also prebendary of this church.
FRANCIS BURGOINE, D. D. was collated the 13th of September, 1621: Held the eighth stall in this church, and died in 1633.
JOSEPH NAYLOR, D. D. rector of Sedgefield: Was collated the 25th of February, 1633: Held the second prebend in this church.
WILLIAM FEATHERS, B. D. was collated the 24th of November, 1636, on the resignation of Naylor: Was chaplain to bishop Morton.
EVERARD GOWER, B. D. was collated the 9th of May, 1638. In 1640, was vicar of Norton; in 1641, rector of Stanhope, and chaplain to bishop Morton
Ath. Oxon. vol. i. p. 902.
.
ISAAC BASIRE, B. D. his successor, was collated the 24th of August, 1644: Was a prebendary of this church, in the seventh stall. Died in 1676; and
WILLIAM TURNER, D. D. succeeded, the 30th of October, 1676: Was rector of Stanhope: Departed this life at Oxford, the 20th of April, 1685, aet. 45, and was interred in St Giles's church there
Ath. Oxon. vol. ii. Fast. 222. B. Willis's Cath.
In St Giles's church, Oxford, on a gravestone in the south aile, adjoining to the chancel.
Gulielmus Turner, S. T. P. Archid. Northumbr. ecc'l. parochialis De Stanhope, in agro Dunelm. rector. Obiit April 20, 1685.
.
JOHN MORTON, B. D. succeeded the 5th of October, 1685: Was a prebendary of this church in the 12th stall, and died in 1722.
THOMAS SHARP, A. M. was collated the 27th of February, 1722. A prebendary of this church, in the tenth stall: Died in 1758; and was succeeded by
THOMAS ROBINSON, D. D. who was collated in August, 1758: Was prebendary of Peterborough and Landaff, and vicar of Ponteland, in Northumberland. Died in 1761
He was a very learned and good
n, and an active justice of peace. Grey's Notes, MSS.
.
JOHN SHARP, D. D. was collated the 21st of April, 1762. Inducted to the vicarage of Hexham, in Northumberland, the 1st of January, 1749-50; collated to the ninth stall in 1768; and nominated to the perpetual curacy of Bamborough, in 1773.
AFTER a tedious arrangement of the several ecclesiastics who sat in this church, the reader's attention is required to a description of the sacred edifices, with a comparative view of their ancient state and ornaments.
The traveller is conducted to this cathedral by the Place or Place-Green, where the whole north front lies open to the view. The situation is singularly grand and noble, the building stretching along the crown of an eminence, about eighty feet perpendicular from the surface of the river, which washes its base; on the east side the Bailey intervenes between the church and the brink of the hill; and on the west this venerable pile rises on the points of rocks, which shew themselves on the summit of the mount, and almost overhangs the stream: On this elevated ground the whole edifice has the most striking and august appearance. The towers to the west were anciently crowned with spires, covered with lead; the windows of the nave are under circular arches, of the original model; in the other parts (excepting the upper tier of the choir) most of them are of a different form and age. This front is now under repair, the stones being all chisseled over, and the decayed parts restored; the towers will receive new decorations, very different from the ancient ones, and the niches be supplied with new sculptures; the expence is estimated at thirty thousand pounds, to be paid out of the Chapter's treasury:—A distinguished act of public munificence!
As the proposed changes will effectually remove from the traveller's eye the ancient appearance of this edifice, it was thought expedient to present the public with a representation of the church in the state it was before the repairs began; and notwithstanding the elegance of the present design, it is apprehended some of the ornaments might have been chosen with greater propriety: Above the great window of the middle transept, in two roundels, were the figures of Benedictine monks, cut in relief; by the mode of the sculpture, expressive of the age of the building. They led the judicious eye immediately to the aera, and gave an example of the state of that art: These roundels are now supplied with two fine new figures—the one a prior, seated in his installation chair; the other, an effigy of bishop Pudsey, cut from the figure on his episcopal seal, as given in the plate of his charter to the city of Durham
See page 13.
. A century after this the figures will betray the spectator into an error, and lead him to determine, that this part of the structure was erected, or at least rebuilt, by that prelate. On the west corner tower of the east transept, were the effigies of those personages who attended the propitious cow, by which the monks discovered this seat of ease and magnificence; the cut shews the recess and sculptures in their decayed state, the figures being now restored and finished with much
art. The great tower of the church, as remarked in the preceding part of this work, is much more modern than the rest, being built as high as the gallery, by prior Melsanby, who acceded in the year 1233, and his successor, prior Middleton: Prior Hugh, of Darlington, who was elected in 1258, finished the work, by building the belfrey or upper tower. The tabernacle work, pointed arches, and ornament on the outsides of the building, confirm those dates; for then the Gothic stile was in general acceptation: The buttresses of the tower are graced with niches canopied and finished with tabernacle work, in which are statues representing the great patrons of the See, in tolerable sculpture. The height of this tower, Willis says, is two hundred and twenty-three feet, describing the lanthern to be one hundred and sixty-two feet, and the belfrey sixty-one feet; but Mr Nicholson's admeasurement, which is most to be depended upon, makes the whole height two hundred and fourteen feet, that is, the dome or lanthern one hundred and sixty, and the belfrey fifty-four feet.
It appears that the Place-Green, before prior Algar's time, in 1109, was crowded with houses, and to him we owe that great elegance of an open area between the cathedral and castle, giving the two edifices at once to the spectator's view; he having caused the buildings to be removed, and the ground to be reduced to a plain. The entrance to the church was by a portico, of much more modern work than the rest of the building, formed by pilasters and circular arches, the upper structure supported by flanking buttresses, from whence sprung a pointed arch, the whole terminating at a point in the center: The arms of queen Elizabeth, in stucco work, were placed on the division of two circular arches, where formerly were the windows of a small chapel: The portico, during the late repairs, was rebuilt and highly ornamented: There were anciently two chambers above the north door, where persons were lodged to hear the call of such as came to claim sanctuary, and who rang the bell to give notice thereof; after which the fugitive was secure from secular authority
In ancient time, before the house was supprest, the abbey church, the church-yard, and all the circuit thereof, was a sanctuary for all manner of men that committed any great offence, as killing of a man in his own defence, or any prisoners who had broken out of prison, and fled to the church door, knocking to have it opened: Also certain men lay in two chambers over the north door for that purpose, that when any such offenders came and knocked, they instantly let them in at any hour of the night; and run quickly to the galilee bell, and tolled it, that whosoever heard it might know that some had taken sanctuary When the prior had notice thereof, he sent orders to keep themselves within the sanctuary; that is, within the church and churchyard, and that every one should have a gown of black cloth, with a yellow cross, called St Cuthbert's cross, at the left shoulder, that every one might see the privilege granted to St Cuthbert's shrine, for offenders to fly unto for succour, and safeguard of their lives, till they could obtain their prince's pardon: And that they should
within the church or sanctuary, on a grate, made only for that purpose, adjoining to the galilee south door. They had likewise meat, drink, bedding, and other necessaries, at the cost of the house, for thirty-seven days, being only such as were necessary for such offenders, until the prior and convent could get them conveyed out of the diocese. This privilege was confirmed not only by king Guthrid, but by king Alured like
.—Cont. from Davies.—Sir John Lawson's MSS. and Mr Hogg's Roll.
. There was also an ancient chapel, dedicated to the holy cross, in this place; and in prior Kerneck's time, viz. 1214, we find an assignment of twenty shillings yearly out of the mills of Browney, or
Bruna,
given to the house by Alan and Henry de Melsanby, with fifty acres of land in
Pitenden,
for a chaplain to celebrate mass for the soul of Alan de Melsanby, which chaplain was allowed his
corrody
in the house
Item. Quod unus capellanus celebret missam pro anima magistri Hen. de Melsanby.
Item. Assignantur viginti sol. de dicto Molendino de Bruna ad mercedem unius capellani qui omnibus die
s s
ialabus it, capella sanctae crucis supra portam abbathie missam celebrabit specialiter pro anima magistri Al
i de Melsanby cum
placebo
&
dirige
& commendatione animarum qui habebit corrodium suum honorifice an ca
a
hctos viginti sol. de scaceario prioris recipiet.
Item memorand. Quod Molendinum de Bruna emptam suit de dictorum magistrorum Alani & Henrice, et quaquaginta acras terrae in territorio de Pitendum.—
Conventiones Eccl. MS. B. iv.
26.
p.
3.
. The entrance down into the church is by three shallow steps.
It is unnecessary to present to the reader a dissertation on the ancient modes of architecture, to elucidate a description of the work, in the various parts of this edifice; the age of it is known, and the alterations made therein are almost critically ascertained: What we commonly call the Saxon architecture in such edifices, is in fact Roman; for those who constructed the religious buildings which arose in the earliest aera of the Norman accession, formed them after the models of workmen procured from the continent, (spoken of by Richard, prior of Hexham, l. i. cha. 3.) and came over to construct our capital buildings, expressly "according to the Roman manner." This stile prevailed till about the conclusion of king Henry the First's reign, when, what we now call Gothic was instroduced into Britain, so that in this church we find some strokes of the improved stile; for as the building was begun in 1093, so it was many years before it was completed: The walls were lest unroosed by bishop Flambard at his death; and the reader will recollect that bishop William brought the design with him from Normandy
vol. i. p.
8.
. The ingenious traveller Mr Pennant, says, "In the inside is preserved much of the clumsy, yet venerable magnificence of the early Norman stile." The gateway, which is ten feet wide, is ornamented within on each hand with pilasters; the inner one, or that nearest the gate, very richly embossed with foliage, and figures in a light and elegant stile; the other plain: The inclining arches are semi-circular; the inner members carved in the zig-zag figure; the outward one embatteled or dentelled. The venerable pile strikes the visitor on his entrance with an awful solemnity not to be expressed; the stately and massive columns, the long extended ailes, the gloom which shadows the succession of arches, all contribute to affect the mind with an attention best known by being experienced: Ideas arise replete with the distant antiquity of the place, the piety of those from whom the structure had its origin, and the devotion which warmed the breasts of the religious whose characteristic virtues shone forth in the holy places. The plan or design of this building is more regular than generally to be found in structures of the like age: The length of the whole church within, exclusive of the gallilee, is four hundred and eleven feet; that of the nave, from the west window to the center of the columns which support the tower, is two hundred feet, and its width seventy-four feet, of which the center aile, from base to base of the pillars, is twenty-eight feet. The superstructure is supported on two rows of columns. Mr Pennant says, the pillars are vast cylinders twenty-three feet in circumference: The two extreme columns to the west rise from bases of the form of a complicated cross, having pointed projections from the interior angles; the dimensions of each base are fifteen feet every way, being exactly similar to those which support the columns of the tower and dome, vulgarly called the lanthern; the pillars are clustered, having three semi-circular pilasters in each front, divided by an angular projection: The next column eastward rises from a base of the form of a cross, twelve feet each way, supporting a clustered pillar, the pilasters of which, towards the center aile, run up to the roof through the facia, between the upper windows; the next rises from a square base of eight feet, and is richly fluted, terminating with a plain capital, which supports the gallery above the side aile: Each intermediate pillar is clustered like those described in the second place, stretching up to the roof, and those in the intervals are circular, making the succession consist of a clustered pillar, and a round one alternately; the first round pillar is fluted as before described, the second covered with the zig-zag figure, and the third grooved with the figure of a net. The pillars opposite to each other are exactly similar in ornaments and dimensions: It is also to be observed, the clustered and round pillars through all the building have their bases of the dimensions before set forth: All the side walls are decorated with pilasters opposite to the columns, and the interior spaces under the windows are filled with double pilasters and intersecting round arches throughout the whole building, except only in the east transept. The arches between the great columns are all semi-circular, the outward members dentelled, the interiors zig-zag'd: The under gallery opens to the middle aile, with one round arch divided within into two arches, supported on a center pillar. There is an upper gallery of single arches. At the west end of the nave is a short cross aile or transcept, in length ninety feet, and eighteen feet wide from the centers of the columns, over the ends of which rise the west towers; according to Willis, one hundred and fifty-eight feet in height, but by Nicholson's admeasurement only one hundred and thirty-eight feet. At the end of each side aile is a gateway, which opens into the gallilee. The ancient ornaments of the north aile are pointed out to the reader in the notes
At the entrance of the north aile was a trellice door from pillar to pillar, which opened and shut with two leaves, like a folding door. Above it was likewise trelliced almost to the height of the vault, and on the top of the said trellice were iron pikes, that none should climb over it: It was never opened but on holidays, and at processions; and the north rood on the other side of the same pillar, at the north end of Jesus' altar, was likewise never opened but to admit some procession.
There were two holy water stones belonging the church, of a fine blue marble; the best stood within and opposite to the north church door, fixed in the corner of the pillar adjoining to the Lady of Pittie's altar, on the left hand as you turn into the gallilee, having a beautiful screen of wainscot, finely painted with blue and little gilt stars: It was kept very clean and fresh water always provided against Sunday morning, hallowed before divine service by one of the monks.
The other stood within the south door, and supplied with fresh water every Sunday morning. That at the south door, served the prior, the convent, and the whole house; the other being for the use of those who came that way to hear divine service.
There was between two pillars, on the left hand, in the north aile, as you go into the gallilee from the north door, our Lady of Pittie's altar, inclosed on each side with wainscot, with the picture of our lady supporting our Saviour on her knee, as he was taken from the cross.
And on the right hand of the said north aile, at going into the gallilee, under the belfrey, called the gallilee steeple, was St Saviour's altar.
In the west end of the church, and of the north aile over the gallilee door, is a belfrey, called the gallilee steeple, wherein hung four great bells, which were never rung but at principal feasts, or when the bishop came to town.
Every Sunday a sermon was preached in the gallilee, from one to three in the afternoon; previous to which, at twelve, the great bell of the gallilee tolled three quarters of an hour, and rung the fourth quarter. There were certain officers of the said house, who were always charged, whenever the bells were to be tolled, to be in readiness to ring them: But after the house was suppressed the bells were never rung. In queen Elizabeth's reign dean Whittingham intended to have them taken down and broken; when Thomas Spark, the bishop's suffragan, having notice of the dean's purpose, sent directly into Yorkshire for a workman, and caused three of the bells to be taken down, and hung up in the new work, called the lanthern, where he made a set of chimes, which cost him thirty or forty pounds.
The lowest window towards the lanthern had three lights divided with stone work. The picture of Christ crucified was in the middle of the first light; and in the second was the picture of our blessed Lady; on the other side that of St John the Evangelist: On one side of Christ was a monk in a blue habit, kneeling and holding up his hands. And above were six turret windows in plain glass.
The second window had two long lights divided with stone work, and in white glass, with coloured glass about it.
In the third were two long lights, divided with stone work, having in the first light the picture of St Catherine, and underneath her St Oswald, and below, that of St Cuthbert. In the second light was pictured the blessed Virgin, with Christ in her arms, and underneath St Bede, and below him St Osmond, bishop, and the arms of St Cuthbert and St Oswald; and four turret windows without pictures, in coloured glass.
The fourth window was plain, and as the second, with coloured glass about it.
In the fifth window were two long lights, divided as aforesaid, in white glass without pictures, but having round about coloured glass; and five turret windows; first four, and one at the top.
The sixth window had two long lights, with a stone work partition: In the first light was the picture of St Oswald, and under him St Paul; and in the second light was that of St Peter, and underneath him St James, in fine coloured glass: And above four turret lights, with bishop Skirlaw's arms on the top.
Within the church were two marble holy water stones, bossed with hollow bosses, on the outsides thereof curiously wrought: That at the north door was twice as capacious as the other at the south, both of the same workmanship. These were taken away by dean Whittingham, and removed into his kitchen, and employed to prophane uses. They stood there during his life: his servants steeped their beef and salt fish in them, there being a conveyance in the bottoms to let out the water, as they had when in the church. After that dean's death the greater was removed to the lower end of the dean's buttery, where the water conduit is, and next unto the wine cellar, for the servants to wash their pots and cups in, before they served them at table. The base of the great holy water stone was laid without the north church door, and afterwards placed in the earth, in the shop of one Lamb a black-smith, upon Framwellgate bridge.—Con. from Davies, Sir John Lawson's MSS. and Mr Hogg's Roll.
. There are six large windows to give light to this aile, but all the old painted glass is destroyed. The vaultings of the side ailes are semi-circular, and crossed with groined arches in plain rolls, intersecting each other in the center. The middle aile of the nave is sixty-nine and a half feet in height; the roof was vaulted with stone about the year 1242, by prior Melsonby; the ribs intersect each other in pointed arches, ornamented with zig-zag workin the fillets: There are seven upper windows to the north, and six to the south. At the east end of the nave, between the pillars which support the great tower, anciently stood Jesus's altar, with all its decorations, no traces of which remain
In the body of the church, between two of the highest pillars supporting the west side of the lanthern, opposite to the choir door, was Jesus' altar, where mass was sung every Friday in the year; and on the backside was a high stone wall, at each end whereof was a door, and called the two rood doors, for the procession to go forth and return at: Each end of the altar was closed up with fine wainscot, like to a porch, adjoining to each rood door, finely varnished with red varnish. In the wainscot, at the south end of the altar, were four grand almeries, to preserve the chalices and silver crewets, with two or three suits of vestments, and other ornaments belonging to the said altar, for holy and principal days: And at the north end of the altar, in the wainscot, was a door to come into the said porch. There was also standing on the altar, a most curious fine table, with two leaves to open and shut, comprehending the Passion of our Lord, richly set in fine lively colours, all like burnished gold; which table was always locked up, but on principal days. Also the fore-part of the said porch, was a door with two broad leaves, to open from side to side, all of fine through-carved work: On the principal days, when any of the monks said mass at the said altar, the table was opened, and the door, which composed the fore-part of the said porch, that every man might come in and see the table.
There was also in the height of the wall, from pillar to pillar, the whole story and passion of our Lord, wrought in stone, and curiously gilt: And above was the whole story and pictures of the twelve apostles, very artifically set forth, and finely gilt, extending from one pillar to the other. And on the top above all, a border artificially wrought in stone, with fine colours, and gilt, with branches and flowers. And likewise above the top of all, upon the wall, stood the most famous rood that was in all the land, with the picture of Mary on one side of our Saviour, and that of St John on the other, with two archangels.
Also on the back of the said rood, before the choir door, there was a loft, and the clock stood in the south end thereof.
Every Friday, after evening prayer, an anthem was sung in the body of the church, before St John's altar, called Jesus' anthem, which was performed by the master and choir, who sung another anthem sitting on their knees before Jesus' altar, one of the gallilee bells tolling.—Davies, &c.
. Behind the altar, and between the two round pillars, were interred priors Aukland and Castell, and nearer to the font prior Burnaby
Thomas Castell, prior of Durham, lies buried under a handsome marble stone in the body of the church, before Jesus' altar, being pictured in brass from the waist up, with his epitaph: Opposite to which, between two pillars on the north side, was a loft, containing a pair of organs for the use of the master and quiristers, at singing Jesus' mass and anthem every Friday, with a desk to lay the books on in time of divine service.
John Aukland, prior, lies buried within the abbey church of Durham.
John Burnaby, prior of Durham, lies buried under a handsome stone, pictured in brass from the waist upward, in the midst of the church, beneath the north door, not far distant from the marble cross, with his epitaph.—Davies, &c.
. In the center of the four west pillars, is the font, an elegant marble bason, over which is a fine piece of tabernacle work in red oak, of an octagon form, richly ornamented, and of excellent workmanship, supported by four columns about eight feet in height, the whole being about thirty feet high, terminating in a pinnacle, and decorated with a dove extending her wings. To the east of the font, between pillar and pillar, is a cross of black marble laid in the pavement, beyond which women were strictly prohibited advancing towards St Cuthbert's shrine
There is, betwixt the pillar on the north side wherein the holy water stone stood, and the opposite pillar on the south side, a row of blue marble in the midst whereof is a cross of the same coloured marble, in token that all women who came to hear divine service, should not be suffered to come above the said cross: And if it happened that any woman came above it, she was instantly punished for certain days, because no woman presumed to come where the holy man St Cuthbert was, for the reverence they had to his sacred body.
Also if any woman happened to come within the abbey gates, or within the precincts of the house, she was punished as an example to deter others from doing the like.
The reasons why women ought not to come to St Cuthbert's seretory, nor enter the precincts of the monastry.
Divers books of the life and miracles of St Cuthbert have been written, which set forth, That St Cuthbert, for a long time, led a most recluse life, in the borders of the Picts; in which time it happened that the daughter of the king of that province was got with child by some young man in her father's house. The king perceiving her pregnancy, diligently examined her who was the cause of that fact; whereupon she made this answer: That solitary young man who dwelleth hard by, is he who hath overcome me, and by whose beauty I am thus deceived. Whereupon the king repaired to the hermit's place, with his deflowered daughter, attended by divers knights, where he instantly accosted the servant of God in this manner: What art thou he, who, under the colour of religion, prophanest the temple and sanctuary of God? Art thou he, who, under the cloak and profession of an hermit, exercisest thyself in all filthiness? Behold my daughter, whom thou by thy wile
hast corrupted, not fearing to destower her: Therefore now at last confess this thy fault, and plainly declare here, before this company in what sort thou hast seduced her. The king's daughter marking the fierce speeches of her father, very impudently stepped forth, and boldly affirmed, that it was he who had done that wicked fact: At which the young man, greatly amazed, perceiving that this calumny proceeded from the instigation of the Devil, applied his whole heart unto Almighty God, saying: My Lord, my God, who only knowest, and art the discoverer of all secrets, make manifest also this work of iniquity, and by some token disprove the same, which, though it cannot be done by human policy, make it known by some divine token. When the young man had spoken these words, suddenly, and in the same place where the stood, the earth making a hissing noise, presently opened, and swallowed her up in the presence of all the spectators. This place is called Corwen, where she for her corruption was conveyed down into Hell. As soon as the king perceived this miracle, he began to be greatly tormented in his mind, fearing le
for his furious threats he should
m the same punishment. Whereupon he, with his company, humbly craving pardon of Almighty God, with a further petition to that good man St Cuthbert, that by his prayers he would crave of God to have his daughter again: Which petition the holy father granted, upon condition, that from thence no woman should come near him. Whence it came to pass that the king did not suffer any woman to enter into any church dedicated to that saint. Davies, &c.
Mandatum ad vocand. certas mulieres de Novo Castro ad peenas eis injunctas, pro quod attemptaverint transire ad feretrum S. Cuthberti.
Domini Dunelm. episcopi officialis, capellanis, &c. sal. cum nuper Matildis Burgh, et Margareta Ushar, servientes, &c. ex instigatione diabo
ica inductae, & ausu temerario ad ecclesiam cathedralem Dunelmen. accessissent vestibus virilibus inductae, eo animo & intentione, ut ad feretrum sanctiff. confessoris Cuthberti personaliter accederent, scientes hoc esse prohibitum mulieribus quibuscunq. sub peena excommunicationis majoris, & violationis ecclesiae libertatis. Cumq. de hoc gravi facinore coram nobis pro tribunali sedentibus convictae fuissent & confessatae, & cum talibus &c. de consensu magistri Johannis Houteman Dom. nostri episcopi Dunelm. vicarij gen. &c. dictis mulieribus in forma juris juratis paenitentias injunximus pro comisso, viz. quod utraq. earum incedat coram processione tribus diebus festivis circa ecclesiam S. Nicholai & aliis tribus diebus festivis circa ecclesiam omnium sanctorum proedictas (N Cast.) in eisdem vestibus virilibus, eisdem modo & forma quibus ad dictam ecclesiam cathedralem Dunelm. tam temerarie accedebant. Vobis igitur injungmus & mandamus, quatenus dictas mulieres ad agend. dictas paenitentias, ut premittitur alternis diebus in vestris ecclesiis convocetis, & causam quare talem peragunt paenitentiam populo publice & solemniter nuncietis, ne aliae mulieres de caetero in tantam prorumpere audaciam delinquendi valeant. &c. Dat. Dunelm 18 die Mensis Septemb. Anno Dom. 1417.
The reader will find a certificate of this penance being performed, in Bourne's History of Newcastle.
. In the middle of the south aile, opposite to the second pillar from the cloister door, was the tomb of bishop Nevil; between the second and third pillar stands an altar tomb of John lord Nevil, and between the next adjoining pillars, the tomb of Ralph lord Nevil. Ralph lord Nevil died in the year 1347, and, as I observed before, was the first layman suffered to be buried within the walls of this church. His remains were brought in a chariot drawn by seven horses, as far as the gates of the church-yard, and then borne on the shoulders of his knights into the church: The abbot of St Mary's, of York, performed the funeral offices, and he was interred before the altar of the holy cross, where he obtained a mass to be daily said: His wife Alicia was afterwards buried near him. It was then a custom to make offerings at the interment of great men, and eight horses, four for war, with four men armed and caparisoned, and four for peace, were on this occasion the holy gift; together with three vestments of cloth of gold, interwoven with flowers. His son, John Nevil, redeemed four horses by the payment of one hundred mares: But Mr Pennant observes,
This favour was not done gratis by the holy men of the place: Ralph had presented them with a vestment of red velvet, richly embroidered with gold, silk, great pearls, and images of saints, dedicated to St Cuthbert
She also gave to the church one vestment, two tunicles, one cape, three albes, two stoles, and three maniples of black sattin, with the arms of the said lord Nevil, and of Hugh lord Audley, her father, embroidered on the borders thereof.
The other monument contains the bodies of John lord Nevil, who died at Newcastle, the 17th of October, 1389, and his first wife Maud, the daughter of Henry lord Percy, at whose funeral six cloths of gold were offered to St Cuthbert; of which were made two vestments for the high altar, one chalice, and two tunicles.
. His widow also sent to the sacrist one hundred and twenty pounds of silver, for the repairs of the cathedral, and several rich vestments for the performance of the sacred offices
Dugdale's Baron i. 295.
Et iterum rogavit eosdem priorem & conventum, ut concederent sibi & uxori suae unam missam qualibet die pro perpetuo ad illud altare; ita quod monachus celebrans celebraret de quo vellet, habendo in memoria animas ejus & uxoris suae & omniu
fidelium defunctorum; & concesserunt ei sub hac conditione, quod acquireret vel appropriaret domui communi corum unum annuum redditum 10l. pro perpetuo duraturum.
W. de Chambre, Wharton's An. Sac. 768.
. This was the nobleman who was so instrumental in gaining the victory of Nevil's Cross;
or the Red Hills. The tomb of John, his son, is also an evidence of the convent's favour obtained by rich gifts. These monuments were ornamented with the recumbent effigies of the great personages there interred, and surrounded with small figures of ecclesiastics in alabaster, finely wrought, but now mutilated and almost totally defaced: When the general disregard for religious edifices took place of old veneration, this church was thought the properest place of confinement and security for the Scotch prisoners after the battle of Dunbar; and they pillaged and destroyed every thing within their reach,—fulfilling the scriptures literally, making this holy place, in truth, a den of thieves
Robert Nevil, bishop of Durham, lies buried in his ancestor's porch, near to the cloister door, which is to the south, and Jesus' altar to the north of the porch, containing three pillars; and so much of the angle having in it an altar, with a fine alabaster table above it, where mass was daily celebrated for their souls, and therein a pew, where the prior used to sit to hear Jesus' mass. The east end of the porch, where the altar stood, was closed up with a little stone wall higher than the altar, and wainscotted above the wall; and the west end with a little stone wall, and an iron grate on the top of it, and the north side towards the body of the church was invironed with iron.
Also on the back part behind Nevil's altar, to the midst of the pillar behind the church door, in compass from pillar to pillar, there was a chamber, where one that kept the church, and rung the bells at midnight lodged: And over the church door, the compass of four pillars, two on either side, when one entered within the church door, was all covered above head with wainscot, very finely painted, and varnished azure, and set out with stars of gold. And in the fore-part of the wainscot, from pillar to pillar, within the church, over the holy water stone, there was a brattishing on the fore part of the wainscot or roof, very curiously wrought, and gilt with gold▪ and in the midst of the brattishing was a star of great compass, like the sun, very curiously wrought with gold, and enamelled; so there could no dust or filth fall into the holy water stone.
In the west end of this south aile, between the two nethermost pillars opposite to our Lady of Pittie's altar, was an altar with a rood, representing Christ's Passion, being commonly called the bonny rood, inclosed on each side with wainscot, as was the altar of our Lady of Pittie.—Davies, &c.
. At the north end of the west transept was St Saviour's altar; and at the south end, the grate, on which those who were under sanctuary lay; the remains of all which, with the Lady of Pity's altar, and the holy water basons, are totally effaced. In the south aile are six windows, in which are some broken remains of painted glass
In the first, over the church door, going into the cloisters, were three fine lights, divided with stone work, having in the first the picture of St Oswald, in the second the virgin Mary, and underneath her bishop Langley, in his episcopal attire, on his knees, with his arms in an escutcheon, and these words, orate pro anima D. Thomae Langley, quondam episcopi hujus ecclesiae: And in the third light St Cuthbert, in fine coloured glass: And above were three white turret windows.
In the second window were five fine long lights divided with stone work, having in the first the picture of St George in armour, and a red lion under his feet: In the second St Oswald: In the third our blessed Lady: In the fourth St Cuthbert, in his episcopal robes: And in the fifth St Christopher with Christ on his shoulders, having a staff flourishing in his hand, and the instruments wherewith Christ was crucified. There were ten knots in coloured glass▪ five above and five below; and six turret windows in white glass.
In the third window were two long lights, having in the first light the picture of God the Father, and on his breast Christ hanging on the cross: In the second was St Cuthbert, with arms of the Nevils finely done; and four turret windows on the top, having in them all the Nevils' arms, as they were joined in matches.
In the fourth window were two long lights, divided with stone work, having in the first the picture of our blessed Lady, St John Baptist, and St Paul and in the second St John the Evangelist, with the chalice in his hand. St Anne▪ and other pictures, with the Nevils' arms, and the arms of those that were joined with them in
age: And above were four turret windows, with the Nevils' arms in them all.
In the fifth window were two fine long lights, having in the first the picture of the angel Gabriel saluting the b
ad
: In the second the virgin Mary, and two other angels with escutcheons of the arms of the Nevils, and others with whom they have married on their breasts.
In the sixth window above the south great door of the church were two lights, having in them no pictures; and above were four tower lights, having in them the arms of four several noblemen.
. Over the two gates of the gallilee are shields of arms of bishop Langley. The west window of seven lights, was made in prior Fossour's time, by John Tickhill, under which are the monuments of Sir George Wheeler, Dr Knatchbull, and Dr Watts
See inscriptions in pages 177, 195, and 214.
. There is a little door by which the officiating priest passed to the altar of the virgin in the gallilee. The fine paintings in the west windows are all defaced
Over the south gallilee door was the seventh window, having no pictures; but four turret windows in white glass.
In the west end of the church, over the gallilee, was a fine large window, containing the whole story of the root of Jesse, in coloured glass, with Mary and Christ in her arms on the top of the said window
In the end of the church towards the west, over the north gallilee door, was a window with two lights, divided with stone work, having in the south the picture of our blessed Lady with Christ in her arms, and a scepter in her hand; and the second or north light was in white glass: And above were four turret lights, with bishop Skirlaw's arms on the top.—Davies, &c.
Inscriptions on gravestones.
D. S. Hic jacet Depositum Dulcibella Morton, Quae obiit vigilia St Matthaei. MDCLXXXVIII. Cum vixisset annos XLIV. Juxta conduntur Filius Georgius Filiae Elizabetha et Anna.
Georgius Morton, Obiit vicesimo die Januarie, 1691.
Ositha Morton Obiit vicesimo primo die Maie, 1702.
This
now
es between the two easternmost arches, on the south side of the body of the church.
The monument of Robert Swyfte formerly lay on the north side of the choir door. It is now entirely taken away, but the brass plate is still preserved in the vestry.
Near this monument was that of Richard Stobert, who died in 1610, but now totally defaced; and also an description to the memory of Thomas Blak
ston,
Esq
who died in 1710, which has shared the same fate.
. In the south aile, opposite to the north entrance, is a large gateway into the cloister, highly wrought and decorated, with a range of three inclining pilasters, supporting semi-circular arches; the pilasters are variously cut in squares and circles, embossed with flowers, figures of animals, and the zig-zag ornaments: Their capitals are finished with figures of animals; and the outward arch is decorated with grotesque figures in circles. At the east end of this aile is another gateway into the cloister, but not so large as the last described, forming a portico in the thickness of the wall, by inclining pilasters and arches; the outward bow is ornamented with a band of thorns, the second a rich cordage, the third embattled or dentelled, the next a fillet of roses, and the last a double zig-zag.
The great cross aile, or middle transept of this church, has an aile towards the east at both ends; the entrance into the choir, projecting in the center, equal thereto. This transept is one hundred and seventy feet in length, and fifty-seven feet in width, including the aile; without which it is only forty feet from the centers of the great columns which support the dome. The clock anciently stood behind Jesus's altar, in the middle of the nave, fronting the choir door, but is now placed at the south end of the transept, and was built in its present elegant form, in 1632, in dean Hunt's time. The body of this transept is separated from its ailes at each end by two round pillars, and one clustered one; one of the round pillars is grooved in a spiral form, and the other in the zig-zag figure: Those ailes are now inclosed with a wood screen; that on the south end being fitted up for the morning service at six o'clock; the other to the north not of present use: Each aile is lighted by three windows to the east, and one at the end, and anciently had three altars: In the south limb, Howell's, or the altar of the holy virgin, next to the choir; the lady of Boulton's altar, also dedicated to the holy virgin, and the altar of St Fides, and St Thomas the Apostle, the last: Before Howell's altar, prior John de Hemingburg was interred, and the priors William de Ebchester, and Robert de Ebchester, before the lady of Boulton's altar
There was also standing in the south pillar of the choir door of the lanthern, in a corner, a square stone, which has been finely wrought. On every side was a large image, and twelve cressets, filled with tallow, to give light to the monks at midnight, when they came to mattins.
John Washington prior of Durham, lies buried under a fine marble stone, with verses engraven in brass upon it before the porch, over the entrance of the north aile, as you go to the song-school adjoining to St Benedict's altar.
Robert Berrington, of Walworth, prior of Durham, first obtained the use of the mitre with the staff. He lies buried under a fine marble stone, being pictured from the waist upwards in brass, on the north side of prior Washington in the north plage over against St Benedict's altar, being the first of the three altars in that plage, or isle.
Next to St Benedict's altar on the north is St Gregory's altar, being the second altar.
John Fossour was the first prior interred within the abbey church. He was buried in the north plage before the altar of St Nicholas and St Giles, the last of the three altars in the plage towards the north; over whom was laid a curious and sumptuous marble stone, prepared by himself when living, with his own image, and other imagery work, viz. The twelve apostles, divided and bordered on either side of him; and three other pictures, all in brass.
John Hemingbrough, prior of Durham, lies buried in the south plage, on the right hand as you go to the revestry, under a fine marble stone, with his picture curiously engraven upon it, having the twelve apostles pictured on each side, six south, and six north, in brass, with other imagery work about his head; lying before the altar of our lady, or Houghwell's altar, the first of the three altars in the south plage.
William Ebchester, prior of Durham, lies buried in the south aile-plage, on the right hand, under a fine marble stone, before the lady of Bolton's altar, with his verses and epitaph engraven upon the said stone, in brass; which stone was taken thence, and laid before the choir door: The aforesaid altar is the second in that plage. Over that altar was a beautiful image of our lady, called the lady of Bolton; which was made to open with gimmers, from her breast downwards; and within was painted the image of our Saviour, finely gilt, holding up his hands, and betwixt his hands a fair and large crucifix, all of gold: Which crucifix was to be taken out every Good Friday, and every man crept unto it that was then in the church; after which it was hung up again. And every principal day the image was opened, that every man might see pictured within, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, most curiously and finely gilt; and both the sides within very finely varnished with green varnish, and flowers of gold: And underneath the stone she stood on, was a beautiful cross upon an escutcheon, called the Nevils' cross, signifying that the Nevils had born the charges thereof.
Robert Ebchester, prior of Durham lies buried under a fine marble stone, with his picture and verses, from the waist upwards in brass, before the said lady of Bolton's altar.
Next to the lady of Bolton's altar, on the south, was St Fides's, and St Thomas the Apostle's altar; being the third altar in the south plage.
There is a library in the south angle of the lanthern, which is now above the clock, betwixt the chapter house and the te deum window; it is well replenished with ancient and modern books.
In the south end of the aile of the lanthern above the clock is a handsome glass window, called the te deum window, finely glazed, very curiously wrought in fine coloured glass, with the nine orders of angels, viz. thrones, dominations, cherubims, &c. with the picture of Christ crucified, and the blessed virgin Mary with Christ in her arms.
Opposite to this, in the north end of the alley of the lanthern, is a large and beautiful glass window, having twelve long and good lights, built of fine stone, and glazed, which in old time was gone to decay; and prior Castell, rebuilding it, called it the window of the four doctors of the church, having six long and handsome glass lights in the upper part of the said window; and therein is pictured our blessed Lady, with the figure of our Saviour Christ in her arms, and that of St Cuthbert on the west side, in the midst of the said window, in fine coloured glass: And on the east side of our Lady are two doctors of the church, and the other two doctors pictured on the west side of St Cuthbert: And the picture of prior Castell, who bore the whole charge of building the said window, sitting on his knees (in fine blue glass, in his habit) and holding up his hands under the feet of the blessed virgin Mary, whose image stands above his head, saying,
Virgo mater Dei, miserere mei:
"Holy Virgin, Mother of God have mercy upon me." There are other six handsome lights in the same window, very finely glazed, with all the instruments of Christ's death, wrought in fine colours; a stone gallery the breadth of the thickness of the wall, at the division of the superior lights from the inferior, affording a passage into the roof of the sacrists exchequer, supported by the partitions of stone in the window work.— Davies, &c.
. In the north limb, St Benedict's altar stood next the choir; the next St Gregory's; and the altar of St Nicholas and St Giles the last to the north: Before St Benedict's altar were interred priors Berrington and Wessington; and prior Fossour before the altar of St Nicholas and St Giles, he being the first prior buried within the walls of this church. The windows of this transept were elegantly glazed with painted glass, of which little remains. The picture of St Bede, an elegant figure in a blue habit, is yet perfect, and part of the representation of the crucifixion, as described in the notes
In the north aile of the lanthern.
On the west side of this aile, above the stair-case door, was only one window, having three long lights: In the first light was the picture of St John the Baptist, with the Lamb of God in his hands: In the second the picture of our blessed Lady, with a monk in a blue habit upon his knees; and above his head written,
Mater Dei, miserere mei.
And in the third light was the picture of St John the Evangelist, with a reed in his hand, and underneath him the Nevil's cross and bull's head; with two tower windows above; and the picture of God in the highest, in fine coloured glass.
And further, in this aile were three altars, and behind every altar one glass window, having three long lights separated from each other by stone work.
The first altar was called St Giles's; and in that window, in the first light, was pictured St Nicholas, having under his feet written, "Sanctus Nicholas, episcopus." In the second light is pictured Nicodemus, or, as others say, Joseph of Arimathea, bearing Christ on the cross in his arms: And in the third light was pictured St Giles in a blue habit, with a hind at his feet shot with a shaft.
The second light was called St Gregory's altar, and behind it a window of three lights, divided with stone work: In the first light of that window was the picture of St Gregory: In the second the picture of our blessed Lady, with Christ in her arms; and one W. Seaton, sub-prior, pictured in his blue habit, kneeling and holding up his hands, with these words underneath him, "W. Seaton, sub-prior." And in the third light was a bishop with a cross on his shoulder, called St Ambrose.
The third is called St Benedict's altar, having the like window: In the first light was the picture of St Benedict in a blue habit, with a crosier staff in his hand; underneath him the picture of St Hierome, with a cardinal's hat on: And in the second light, Christ as he arose from the dead and a prior in a blue habit, kneeling and holding up his hands before the altar, with a mitre set upon it: In the third light was the picture of St Catherine, with the wheel in her hand; underneath her the picture of Mary Magdalen, with an alabaster box in her hand, as she anointed Christ: And above were three tower windows, with angels in fine coloured glass.
The orders of St Benedict were set forth in their pictures about the altar in wainscot, with a partition, the friars within, and the monks without.
In the south aile of the lanthern.
In this aile were three altars, called Houghwell's, the lady of Bolton's, and St Fides's altar towards the south, each having a window behind it.
The first altar had a
ine glass window with three long lights: In the first was the picture of St Catherine: In the second our blessed Lady, with Christ in her arms; and under her a monk in a blue habit, kneeling and praying: In the third was St Margaret, and under her St Christopher, bearing Christ on his shoulders over the water, having a staff flourshing in his hand: And three turret windows, with the picture of St John the Baptist in prison, having a grate before him, and a book in one hand, with the Lamb of God upon it, pointing unto it with his other.
The second altar had a window with three like lights, having in the first St John the Evangelist; and under him the picture of St Nicholas: In the second light our lady of Bolton, with a golden mace in her hand, and a crown of gold on her head; and a monk under her feet kneeling and praying: In the third light, St Stephen, with stones in his hands, wherewith he was martyred; and under him the picture of St John the Baptist, with the lamb in his hand; with three towers in coloured glass, with angels pictured in them.
The third altar had the like window: In the first light was the picture of the blessed Virgin, with Christ in her arms; and under her St Fides: In the second light God the Father, with Christ in his arms, as proceeding from the Father; under him was St Thomas, and under St Thomas, a monk in a blue habit, holding up his hands and praying: In the third light was St Leonard; under him St Laurence, and in the high part of the window, in a little turret, was St Bede in a blue habit, and the other two little turrets had two angels.
In the end of the said altar, southward, was a fine glass window with three long lights: In the middle or first light was the picture of Christ crucified, and underneath a monk in a blue habit, kneeling and holding up his hands, having written above his head, "Christe Jesu Thomae des Gaudium:" And in the second light, the picture of the virgin Mary on one side of Christ: And in the third light, St John the Evangelist, on the other side of Christ: And above all, three lights, the picture of God, with a globe in his hand, in the middle lights; and the pictures of two angels on each side of God, in either of the other two lights.
There was a window towards the cloisters, west of the clock, which had three lights: In the first was the picture of our Lady; under her, the picture of St Cuthbert, with St Oswald's head in his hand: In the second light, our Saviour Christ on the cross, with INRI over his head, and angels receiving blood and water from his feet, and the picture of the sun and moon wanting their light above his head; under the picture of Christ was our Lady, and under her a monk in a blue habit, kneeling and holding up his hands, having above his head, "Mater Dei miserere mei:" And in the third light, was the picture of St John the Baptist, and St Oswald under him, in his princely attire.—Davies, &c.
. The north window was made by the munificent prior Fossour, under a pointed arch, as also three windows in the aile; but the great window going soon after to decay, was restored by prior Castell, who acceded in 1494, and ornamented it with much painting: There is a large window on the west side of the transept, near the end. The south window, before described in the notes, is called the Te Deum window. The choir is now inclosed with a screen of oak, covered in a bold stile with festoons of fruits and flowers, and an entablature of a rich foliage pattern. This takes place of the old pannelled work, on which were painted the images of the great patrons and benefactors of this church; under each of which was an historical inscriptions in letters of gold
The cross aile of the lanthern before the choir door, going north and south.
In the former part of the choir, on either side the west door, or the chief entrance thereof, without the choir door in the lanthern, were placed, in their several rooms, one above another, the most excellent pictures, all gilt, and extremely beautiful, of the kings and queens, as well of Scotland as England, who were devout and godly founders and benefactors of this church, and sacred monuments of St. Cuthbert, in their several successions and kingdoms; whose names follow:
Edgar, king of Scotland.
Catharine, queen of England.
David Bruce, king of Scotland.
Richard II. king of England.
Alexander, king of Scotland.
Henry IV. king of England.
Richard II. king of England.
Alexander, king of Scotland.
Matilda, queen of England.
David, king of Scotland.
Edward III. king of England.
Henry II. king of England.
Edward I. king of England.
Henry V. king of England.
Alexander, king of Scotland.
Sybil, queen of Scotland.
William Rufus, king of England.
Richard III. king of England.
William the Conqueror, king of England.
Harold, king of England.
John, king of England.
Edward II. king of England.
Athelstan, king of England.
Stephen, king of England.
Matilda, queen of England.
Canute, king of England.
Malcomb, king of Scotland.
Duncan, king of Scotland.
Henry III. king of England.
Eleanor, queen of England.
Henry I. king of England.
Eleanor, queen of England.
Malcomb, king of Scotland.
William, king of Scotland.
In the same place were the images of many more benefactors and founders of this See, under whom, as also under the kings and queens, were historical inscriptions.
. (The screen at Hexham, described in the View of Northumberland, and by Mr Pennant, gives an idea of what our cathedral paintings were.) The ailes are inclosed by handsome gates, carved with foliage and open work: Above the screen, stands an excellent organ
The ORGANS.
There were three pair of organs belonging to the said choir, for maintenance of God's service, and the better celebrating thereof. The grandest of the three stood over the choir door, only opened and played upon on principal feasts, the pipes being all of the finest wood and workmanship, partly gilt upon the inside, and the outside of the leaves and cover up to the top, with branches and flowers, finely gilt, with the name of Jesus gilt with gold. There were but two pair more of them in England of the same make; one pair in York, and another in St Paul's.
Also there was a lettern of wood, like unto a pulpit, standing and adjoining to the wood organs, over the choir door, where they used to sing the nine lessons in the old time on principal days, standing with their faces towards the high altar.
The second pair stood on the north side of the choir, being never played upon, but when the four doctors of the church were read, viz. Augustine, Ambrose, Gregory, and Jerome, being a pair of fair large organs, called the cryers.
The third pair were daily used at ordinary service.—Davies, &c.
, richly ornamented
The first organist at the Reformation, was, as I presume,
John Brimlies, oc. 7 Sep. 1561. Ob. 13 Oct. 1576, and lies buried in the western part of the church.
Will. Browne, oc. 1587.
Edw. Smythe, buried at this church 4 Feb. 1611.
Rich. Hutchinson, oc. 2 Jul. 1615, in Cath. Reg. ob. 20 Jan. 1634, in comp. thesaur.
Leo. Calvert, oc. 30 Sep. 1634, in comp. thes.
Joh. Foster, oc. 27 Feb. 1661, buried in this church 20 Ap. 1677.
Will. Gregs, 1677, oc. 25 Aug. 1685, died 15 Oct. 1710, buried in Little St Mary's church-yard.
James Hesletine, aged 19 years, 1710, ob. 20 Jun. 1763, buried in the gallilee.
Thomas Ebdon, 1763, a pupil of Mr Hesletine's, and a native of Durham, is the present organist.
. There are brackets for statues against the pillars of the transept, on each side of the entrance into the choir. In the center of this transept is the great dome or lanthern, supported on four clustered pillars, from the floor to the center of the roof one hundred and sixty feet in height
The admeasurement is here taken from without, but as the pavement of this church was new laid, and the tombstones removed about the year 1660, and you descend into the church by three steps, the addition may make 161 feet, 6 inches.
In the lanthern, called the new work, hung three fine bells, rung always at twelve o'clock at night; the monks going to mattins at that hour; four men were appointed to ring these bells at midnight, and at such times of the day as the monks went to serve God; two of the said men belonged to the revestry, and kept the copes, the vestments, and five pair of silver censers, with the other ornaments pertaining to the high altar, and lay in the chamber over the west end of the revestry: The other two men lay in a chamber in the north aile, over against the sacrist's exchequer; they swept and kept the church clean, and filled the holy water stones every Sunday morning, and locked the church doors every night.
The steeple of this cathedral, a stately fabric, is remarkable as well for its height as strength and just architecture, having on the inside a gallery of stone work around it, above the turn of the arches of the pillars upon which it is founded; above which are eight long windows, two on each front of the steeple, divided in the middle by a cross bar of stone, and handsomely glazed with plain glass. Above the windows, on the outside, is another gallery, and above that a superstructure, having two windows on each front, wherein hang eight melodious bells. In the eight buttresses, on the sides of the lower windows, also in the stone work betwixt each window, are niches, containing the statues of the founders, protectors, and benefactors.—Davies, &c.
As I noted before, these eight bells were cast in 1632, from the metal of the gallilee bells, and those of the lanthern, and cost 128l. 12s. 7d. and were recast in 1693.
The inscriptions on the several bells are as follow:
1. Camp. Christi & B. Mariae virginis Chr. Hobson, artifice Dec. & Cap. Dunelmensis, fieri fecerunt, A. D. MDCXCIII.
2. Campana S. Margaretae refecit.
3. Sit nomen Domine benedictum Dec. & Cap. refecerunt, A. D. MDCXCIII.
4. Olim Campana S. Benedicti. Fieri fecit R. Tonnor.
5. Olim Campana S. Michaelis Decanus & Cap. refecerunt, A. D. MDCXCIII.
6. Olim Campana boni Bedae Chr. Hobson, art. Dec. & Cap. Dunelm. refecerunt A. D. MDCXCIII.
7. Olim Camp. S. Oswaldi. quam fieri fecit R. de Dunelm. Dec. & Cap. Dunelm. refecerunt A. D. MDCXCIII.
8. Camp. S. Cuthberti olim Galalea Dec. & Cap. Dunelm. refecerunt, A. D. MDCXCIII.
T. Comber, S. T. P. Dec. S. Eyre, S. T. P. thesaur. Chr. Hobson, artifice.
Amongst other ornaments of this church the brasen desk is not the least, which was the joint guifte of a reverend prebend, Dr Robt. Swyfte, and his son, who added the globe and eagle to that sumptuous basis and columne, the guifte of his father, which was the twelfth part of a great candlestick found hid in a vault; who both lye buried under two marble stones, inlay'd with brass, as you enter the quire dore on the left side.— Hegge's Legend, p. 27.
. This being built in the beginning of the thirteenth century, has many marks of a refined taste: Round the bottom of the dome is a hanging gallery supported on corbles, each intermediate one sculptured with a human figure; the breast work or battlement of the gallery is formed in open rose work: The superstructure is ornamented in pannels with pilasters, terminating in tabernacle work: There are two long windows in each front, separated by a round pilaster, whose capital is pierced in flowers and foliage; pilasters of the same order are placed in the angles, and from the eight pilasters spring the groins of the arched roof or vault of the dome, which are braced at intervals, and finished with a circle in the center, in a light and beautiful taste.
The ascent from the transept is by two marble steps to the choir, entering which, the visitor is struck with the magnificence and solemnity of the scene. The choir is one hundred and twenty feet in length, and in width equal to the center aile of the nave, the chief pillars running parallel through the whole building. The side ailes are not so wide as those of the nave, the width of the choir being only seventy-six feet. The floor is laid with black and white marble
The CHOIR.
In the east end of the choir, joining upon St Cuthbert's feretory, stood the high altar, with many precious and costly ornaments appertaining to it, as well for every principal day, as for every of our Lady's days. Betwixt the said high altar and St Cuthbert's feretory, was all of French Pierre, curiously wrought both on the outside and the inside, with images of alabaster, and gilt; being called in the ancient history Lardose. The said French Pierre or Lardose, reaching in height almost to the middle vault, and containing the breadth of the choir in length. In the midst whereof, right over the high altar, were placed, in very fine alabaster, the picture of our Lady standing in the midst, and the picture of St Cuthbert on one side, and of St Oswald on the other, all richly gilt. And at either end of this altar was a wand of iron fastened in the wall, whereon hung curtains or hangings of white silk daily. The daily ornaments that were hung both before the altar and above, were of red velvet, with flowers of gold, in embroidered work, and many pictures besides very finely gilt: But the ornaments for the principal feast, the assumption of our Lady, were all of white damask, beset with pearls and precious stones.
Within the said choir, over the high altar, hung a rich and most sumptuous canopy, for the blessed sacrament, which had two irons fastened in the French Pierre, finely gilt; which held the canopy over the midst of the said high altar, that it could not move or stir; whereon stood a pelican of silver, upon the height of the said canopy, very finely gilt, giving her blood to her young ones. And the pix was of pure gold, curiously wrought; and the white cloth that hung over the pix was of very fine lawn, embroidered and wrought with gold and red silk; and four great round knobs of gold curiously wrought, with tassels of gold and red silk hung at them, and the four corners of the white lawn cloth; and the crook that hung within the cloth, that the pix hung upon, was of gold; and the cord that drew it up and down was made of fine strong white silk. And when the monks went to high mass, they put on their vestments in the revestry, both the epistler and gospeller; And when the office of the mass began to be sung, the epistler came forth out of the revestry, the other two monks following him, at the south choir door, and there stood till the Gloria Patri or the office of the mass began to be sung; and then with great reverence and devotion, they went all up to the altar; and one of the vergers that kept the revestry went before them, with a large tip-staff in his hand. The gospeller carried a fair book, which had the epistles and gospels in it, and laid it on the altar; which book had on the outside of the covering, the picture of our Saviour, of silver, of goldsmith's work, parcel-gilt; which book did serve for the pix in the mass. The epistler, when he had sung the epistle, laid the book again upon the altar; and afterwards when the gospel was sung, the gospeller did lay it down upon the altar likewise, until the mass was done.
Also there was pertaining to the high altar two chalices, one was of gold, the other of silver, double gilt, and the foot of it set full of precious stones; that of gold was for principal days, and the other was to serve every day: Likewise there was pertaining to the said high altar, two great basons of silver, one for principal days, double gilt; and the other for every day, not so large, being parcel-gilt, and engraven all over; and two great crewets of silver, containing a quart a-piece, parcel-gilt, and engraven all over; and two lesser crewets for every day, all of silver; one pair of silver censers for every day, and two pair of silver censers for every double feast, double gilt; and two pair of silver censers, parcel-gilt, and the chains also for every principal day; and with two ships of silver, parcel-gilt, for principal days; and other two of silver, ungilt, for every day, to carry frankincense in; and two silver candlesticks, double gilt, for two tapers, very finely wrought, of three quarters height, to be taken in sunder with wrests; and the other two silver candlesticks, for every day's service, parcel-gilt; with sumptuous furniture for every festival day, of changeable suits. Divers of the vestments were set round about with pearls, both stoles and stannels. There were also other very rich jewels and ornaments pertaining to the said high altar.
There were also two crosses to be borne on principal days for procession; one for gold, and the staff it stood in was of silver, of goldsmith's work, very curiously wrought, and double gilt. The other cross was of silver, double gilt, and the staff was of wood, of the same workmanship, and double gilt. Also there was another cross of crystal that served for every day in the week. There was borne before the cross every principal day, a holy water font, of silver, very finely engraved, and parcel-gilt, which one of the novices carried.
In the north side of the choir there is an almery nigh to the high altar, fastened in the wall, to lay any thing in, pertaining to the high altar.
There is likewise another almery in the south side of the choir, nigh the high altar, inclosed in the wall, to set the chalices, basons, and the crewets in.
At the north end of the high altar there was a very fine lettern of brass, where they sung the epistle and the gospel, with a great pelican on the height of it, finely gilt, billing the blood out of her breast to feed her young ones, and her wings spread abroad, whereon lay the book, in which they sung the epistle and gospel; it was thought to be the finest lettern of brass in this country. It was all to be taken asunder with wrests, every joint from the other.
Also there was lower down in the choir another lettern of brass, not so curiously wrought, standing in the midst against the stalls, a very beautiful one, with an eagle on the height of it, and her wings-spread abroad, whereon the monks laid their books when they sung their legends, at mattins, or other times of service.
Before the high altar were three fine silver basons hanging in chains of silver, one on the south side of the choir, above the steps going up to the high altar; the second on the north side, opposite to the first; the third in the midst between them both, just before the high altar. These three silver basons had latten basons within them, having pricks for serges or great waxen candles to stand on; the latten basons being to receive the drops of the three candles, which burned day and night.
There was also another silver bason hanging in silver chains before the sacrament of the aforesaid high altar, but nearer to the said altars than the others, hanging almost over the priest's back, which was only lighted in time of mass, and that ended, extinguished.
Also there was a handsome monument belonging to the church, called the paschal, which used to be set up in the choir, and there to remain from the Thursday, called Maunday Thursday before Easter, till the Wednesday after Ascension-day. It stood upon a four-square thick plank of wood, against the first grees or step, behind the three basons of silver that hung before the high altar: At every corner of the said plank was an iron ring, whereunto the feet of the paschal were adjoined, representing the pictures of the four flying dragons; as also the pictures of the four evangelists, above the top of the dragons, underneath the nethermost boss, all supporting the whole paschal; and the four quarters have been four chrystal stones, as appear by the holes: And on every side of the four dragons there is a curious antique work, as beasts, men upon horseback, with bucklers, bows, and shafts, and knots, with broad leaves spread upon the knots, very finely wrought, all being of the finest and most curious candlestick metal, or latten metal, having six candlesticks or flowers of candlestick metal coming from it, three on either side, whereon stood a taper of wax: And on the height of the said candlestick was a large pretty flower, being the principal flower, which was the seventh candlestick. The paschal in latitude contained almost the breadth of the choir, in longitude it extended to the height of the lower vault, whereon stood a long piece of wood reaching within a man's length to the uppermost vault or roof of the church, upon which stood a great, long squared taper of wax, called the paschal; having a fine convenience through the said roof of the church to light the taper. The paschal was esteemed to be one of the rarest monuments in England.
The PASSION.
Within the church of Durham, upon Good Friday, there was a most solemn service; in which two of the eldest monks took a large beautiful crucifix, all of gold, laying it upon a velvet cushion, having St Cuthbert's arms upon it, embroidered with gold, bringing it betwixt them upon the said cushion, to the lowest steps in the choir, and there betwixt them, held the said picture of our Saviour, sitting on either side of it. And there one of the said monks rose and went a pretty space from it, sitting down upon his knees, with his shoes put off, crept upon his knees unto the said cross, and kist it; and after him the other monk did so likewise; and they sat down on either side of the said cross▪ holding it betwixt them; after that the prior came out of his stall, and sat down upon his knees with his shoes off: And in like manner crept unto the said cross, and all the monks after him, one after another in the same order; in the mean time the whole choir singing a hymn. The service being ended, the said two monks carried the cross to the sepulchre with great reverence; (which was set up that morning on the north side of the choir, nigh unto the high altar, before the service time) and there laid it in the said sepulchre with great devotion, with another picture of our Saviour Christ, in whose breast they inclosed, with great reverence, the most holy and blessed sacrament of the altar; setting two tapers lighted before it, which burned till Easter day in the morning that it was taken forth.
The RESURRECTION.
There was in the church of Durham very solemn service upon Easter day, between three and four o'clock in the morning, in honour of the resurrection, where two of the eldest monks of the choir came to the sepulchre set up on Good Friday, covered with red velvet, and embroidered with gold, and then censed it, each monk with a pair of silver censers, sitting on their knees before the sepulchre. Then they both rising came to the sepulchre, out of which, with great reverence, they took a beautiful image of our Saviour, representing the resurrection, with a cross in his hand, in the breast whereof was inclosed in crystal, the holy sacrament of the altar; through which crystal the blessed host was conspicuous to the beholders. Then after the elevation of the said picture, carried by the said two monks upon a velvet cushion embroidered, singing the anthem of
Christus Resurgens,
they brought it to the high altar, setting it on the midst thereof, the two monks kneeling before the altar, and censing it all the time that the rest of the choir were singing the aforesaid anthem of
Christus Resurgens;
which anthem being ended, the two monks took up the cushion and the picture from the altar, supporting it betwixt them, and proceeding in procession from the high altar to the south choir door, where there were four ancient gentlemen, belonging to the prior, appointed to attend their coming, holding up a very rich canopy of purple velvet, tassled round about with red silk, and a gold fringe, and at every corner of the canopy stood one of the ancient gentlemen to bear it over the said image, with the holy sacrament carried by the two monks round about the church, the whole choir waiting upon it with torches and a great number of other lights, all singing, rejoicing, and praying to God most devoutly, till they returned to the high altar, whereon they placed the said image, there to remain till Ascension day.
Ludovicus de Bello Monte, bishop of Durham, lies buried before the high altar in the choir, under a most curious and sumptuous marble stone, which he prepared for himself before he died; being adorned with most excellent workmanship of brass, whereon he was most excellently and lively pictured, as he was accustomed to sing or say mass, with his mitre on his head, and his crosier staff in his hand, with two angels finely pictured, one on the one side of his head, and the other on the other side, with censers in their hands censing him; and containing also pictures and image of the twelve apostles, divided and bordered on either side of him; and next them are bordered on each side of the twelve apostles, in another border, the pictures of his ancestors, in their coats of arms, being of the blood royal of France; he had a white lion placed upon the breast of his vestment, underneath the verses of his breast, with flower-de-luces about the lion; and two lions pictured, one under one foot of him, and the other under his other foot, supporting and holding up his crosier staff, his feet adjoining and standing upon the said lions; and two other lions beneath them, in the nethermost border of all, being very artificially wrought in brass.
The names of the monks who were officers within the abbey church, at the time of the dissolution.
Dr Richard Crosby, master of the novices.
There was always six novices, who went daily to school within the house, for the space of seven years together, and one of the eldest and most learned monks was their tutor. The said novices had no wages, but meat, drink, and apparel, for that space. The master, or tutor's office was to see they wanted nothing; as cowls, frocks, stamyne, bedding, boots, socks; and as soon as they needed any of these necessaries, the master had charge to call at the chamberlain's for such things. They never received wages, nor handled money in that time, but went daily to their books in the cloyster: And if the master found any of them more apt to learn, and diligently prosecuting his studies, then he gave notice thereof to the prior, and he was soon sent to Oxford, there to learn and study divinity, and the rest of the novices were kept at their books, till they could understand their service and the scriptures. At seven years of age they sung their first mass, and from thence the house was no longer charged with finding them apparel; for then they entered into wages, to find themselves with apparel, which was twenty shillings a-year each, and had no more to supply themselves withal.— The eldest monk in the house had no more, except he had an office. His chamber was in the dorter.
Dr John Porter, alias Smith, sacristan.
The sacrist's exchequer was within the church, in the north alley, opposite to bishop Skirlaw's altar, on the left hand as you go up to the abbey of St Cuthbert's feretory.
His office was to provide bread and wine for the church, and wax and lights in winter. He had always a tun of wine lying in his exchequer, for the use of the church. He had also sacristan-heugh in his keeping; it was his charge; and St Mary's cupboard was his office. He was also to see the glass windows repaired, and the plummer's work of the church done; and mending of bells and bell-ropes, and all other works necessary to be performed, both within and without the church, and to see the church kept clean.
His office was also to lock up every night the keys of every altar in the church, every altar having its several almery, and some two, to lay the said keys forth every morning between seven and eight o'clock, upon the top of the almery, which was of wainscot, wherein they were locked, which stood within the north choir door, that every monk might take the key, and go to what altar he was disposed to say mass at.
They also went to the chapter-house every day between eight and nine o'clock, where all the bishops in the old time were buried, and there prayed for all their benefactors, and those who had bestowed any thing upon this church. At nine o'clock a bell was rung to mass, called the chapter mass, which was always sung at the high altar; and he that sung the mass had always in his memento, all those who had given any thing to this church. One half of the monks said mass in the chapter mass time, and the other half that sung not the chapter mass, said mass in the high mass time.
There were at every altar two chalices, and two silver crewets appertaining to it, both with albs and vestments for principal feasts; as also for all other days beside. Every altar had its double furniture for adorning all parts of the altar, serving both for holidays and principal feasts.
Their founders and benefactors were prayed for every day, and had in remembrance in the time of saying mass.
The sacristan's chamber was in the dorter, and he had his meat served from the great kitchen to his exchequer.
Other officers of the church.
Dr Robert Bennet, bowcer of the house: He was the first prebendary in the eleventh stall. Anno 1542.
His exchequer was a little stone house joining upon the coal-garth pertaining to the great kitchen, a little distant from the dean's hall stairs.
Dr Roger Wright, cellerer of the house.
His exchequer was afterwards Dr Tod's chamber, joining to the west end of the great kitchen, having a pair of stairs going up to it, and was the first prebendary in the eleventh stall. Anno 1542.
Dr Roger Watson, terrer of the house.
His exchequer was as you go into the guest-hall, on the left hand in the entry at going into the great hall.
Dr William Forster, keeper of the garners.
The master of the garners exchequer was over Mr Pilkington's hall door, all whose house, and Mr Bunney's, were garners, where their wheat and other corn lay.
These granaries are at present the houses of the seventh and eighth prebendaries.
The kiln was where Mr Robert Bennet's lodging was, beyond the conduit. This lodging was built at his own expence. It is at this time the house of the eleventh prebendary.
Dr Thomas Spark, chamberlain, the first prebendary in the third stall. Anno 1542.
His exchequer was near the abbey-gates; now the mansion-house of the first prebendary.
The chamberlain's office was to provide stamyne, otherwise called linsey-woolsey, for sheets and shirts for the novices and the monks, for they were not permitted to wear linen. He kept a taylor daily at work, in making socks of white woollen cloth, both whole and half socks; and making shirts and sheets of linsey-woolsey, in a shop underneath the exchequer. This taylor was one of the servants of the house. The chamber where he lay was in the dorter.
Dr Henry Brown, master of the common-house.
His office was to provide all such spices against Lent as should be comfortable to the monks, under their great austerity, both of fasting and praying; and to have a fire constantly in the common-house hall, for the monks to warm themselves at when they pleased; and to provide always a hogshead of wine for the monks; and for keeping his O, called O Sapientia, and to provide sigs and walnuts for Lent. His chamber was in the dorter.
Dr William Watson, the prior's chaplain.
His exchequer was over the stairs in going up to the dean's hall. He was the first prebendary in the twelfth stall. Anno 1542.
His office was to receive at the bowcer's hands, all such sums of money as were payable by him to the lord prior's use for his maintenance, the expence of his whole houshold, and his other necessaries. The said chap
ia was to provide apparel for the lord prior, and to see all things in good order in the hall, and the furniture for his table to be sweet and clean; and that every man executed his office diligently as he ought to do; and that no debate or strife should be within the house. He had in his custody all the lord prior's plate and treasure, as well for delivering it out, as receiving it again. He was also to discharge and pay all the gentlemen, yeomen, and all other the servants and officers of the lord prior's house their wages, and to discharge all other debts of the house whatsoever. His chamber was adjoining to the prior's chamber.
All these monks were in these offices when the house was suppressed.
The ancient custom of procession in the abbey church of Durham, on certain festivals.
Upon St Mark's day.
St Mark's day was commonly kept a fast through all the country, and no flesh eaten upon it: The prior with the monks made a solemn procession, and went to Bow church, doing very solemn service there; and one of the monks made a sermon to the parishioners and town's men who came thither.
The procession on the three cross days, by the prior and monks.
On Monday in cross-week they had another solemn procession, going to St Oswald's church in Elvet, and there did a solemn service: A sermon was preached by one of the monks, before a numerous audience.— Tuesday, the day following, in another solemn procession, they went to St Margaret's church, in Crosgate, with solemn service, and a sermon. On Wednesday, the next day, they had the like procession to St Nicholas' church, there doing divine service very solemnly, and a sermon was preached before a great audience.
The procession on Holy-Thursday, Whit-Sunday, and Trinity-Sunday, by the prior and the monks.
The next morning, being Holy-Thursday, they had a general procession, with two crosses borne before them; one, both cross and staff, all of gold; the other of silver parcel-gilt, with that holy relique St Cuthbert's banner, being carried first in the procession, with all the rich copes belonging to the church, every monk one. The prior had an exceedingly rich one of cloth of gold, which was so massy that he could not go upright with it, unless his gentlemen, who at other times bore up his train, supported it on every side whenever he had it on. He had his crosier staff in his hand, which was of silver double guilt, and a rich mitre on his head: Also that holy relique St Bede's shrine, was carried in the procession by four monks, upon their shoulders. And other monks carried about with them in the said procession, several holy reliques, as the picture of St Oswald, of silver gilt, and St Margaret's cross, of silver double gilt. The procession came out at the north door of the abbey church and through the church-yard, and down Lidgate, by Bow church end, and up the South Bailey, and in at the abbey gates, where a great number of people stood, and so proceeded through the abbey garth, whither no woman was permitted to go; and so through the cloisters into the church.
Upon Whit-Sunday was a general procession, with the same solemnities as had been observed on Holy-Thursday, with St Bede's shrine, St Cuthbert's banner, and all the holy reliques; as the image of St Oswald, and the image of St Aidanus, and St Margaret's cross, and divers others.
On Trinity-Sunday was another general procession as aforesaid, with all the above recited reliques, going the same circuit.
. The stalls are elegant; the bishop's stall being on the right-hand side of the entrance, the dean's on the other; one for the temporal chancellor on the dean's left-hand, and those of the prebendaries and archdeacons in succession; the minor canons next; one at the extremity towards the east on the south side, for the vicar-general of the diocese; and others on both sides, for the reception of the judges of assize, sheriff, mayor, and corporation of the city, &c. on such accustomed days as they attend divine service there; the whole finished in a magnificent stile with tabernacle work. Beneath the stalls are seats for the lay-singers, choristers, almshouse-men, and scholars of the foundation. Advancing towards the altar, where the stalls terminate, the pavement is elevated one step, and on the right-hand is the bishop's throne, erected by bishop Hatfield, over the vault prepared for his own monument, and built in a stile consistent with the proud idea he held of the dignity of his mitre. Mr Pennant speaking of it, says,
In the choir is the bishop's throne, elevated to an uncommon height, erected in times of the triumph of superstition. A painful ascent to the present prelate, whose wish is directed more to distinguish himself by benevolence and sincerity, than any exterior trappings or badges of dignity.
The ascent to the throne is by many steps; in the center is a chair of state, richly ornamented, and canopied over head with tabernacle work, coloured and gilt; on each side, the throne is lined with tapestry, and otherwise handsomely furnished, large enough to receive the chief temporal officers, with the servants who are about the prelate's person: The bishop, when he goes to his throne, is always preceded by a person bearing a massy gilded mace, in distinction of his secular power. Chambrè tells us,
Novum ad australem partem chori...juxta stallos monachorum curiosum opus construxit, in medio cujus stallum episcopale, imaginibus subtiliter sculptis, sumptibus copiosis in operarios largissime impensis, honorifice circumseptum, fecit & decenter ordinavit
The throne was repaired by Lord Crewe; and in 1772, was new painted and gilt by bishop Egerton.
. The images are all removed. Below the throne are stalls for the prebendaries' ladies: On the opposite side of the choir, where bishop Skirlaw's tomb was, are other stalls for the ladies of the bishops, and dean's families and others; and close adjoining is the pulpit, finely ornamented with inlaid figures in the Italian stile, representing some of the apostles, the ground Swedish oak; the figures are almost as large as life, so artfully shadowed as to appear like a delicate painting in bronze: The sounding board is supported by one column. The opening into the side ailes to which you descend by five marble steps, is by a gate, and two side lights of open tracery work, in wood, finely executed and finished above with tabernacle work. The choir comprehends four pillars on each side, two of them clustered, and two round, the round ones cut in the spiral figure: The double gallery above the side ailes is formed of circular arches, each of the lower openings divided by a single column. The roof was repaired, or rather new vaulted by prior Hotoun, who acceded in 1289; it is of elegant Gothic work, the ribs of the arches terminating in points ornamented with roses, the fillets pierced in roses and crosses: Some of the decorations of the center roses are singular; one next to the organ contains a human figure, with three round balls in an apron, not unusual among the heathen emblematical effigies. From the altar rails eastward, the whole work appears nearly of the same date, and by the architecture of this part of the edifice, we are led to conclude that the building originally terminated here, and was opened further eastward to form a connection with the east transept: The columns which rise at the altar rail, are little more than the plain facing of a common wall, ornamented with long small round pilasters, single and belted in the middle, their capitals pierced, decorated with figures of animals, and finished above with tabernacle work; the whole appearing like ornaments placed occasionally there: The opening of the gallery in this part is different from the rest of the church, consisting of three pointed arches, supported by columns whose capitals are richly pierced, and the fillets of the arches are pierced and highly decorated; there is also an interior pillar supporting a groined vaulting. Here the building appears to have been broken off and the east wall removed. The vaulting of the roof is continued, and over the altar table finishes with a fine pointed arch, supported on clustered pillars, ranging with the side of the east transept; the capitals and the fillets or mouldings of the arch are highly finished with pierced work, and bear no degree of similitude to any of the more western parts of this edifice. Within the altar rails eastward, from the plain columns before described, are four seats on each side of the altar table, for the officiating priests to rest, formed of pillars, supporting pinnacle work, of the same materials and design as the work behind the altar, and most probably erected at the same time: These seats are closed from the ailes behind with a wall, which proves the occasionality, by being dissimilar to the rest of the aile
The chancel and altar piece are of stone, beautifully cut into open work
A cut of it in Smith's edition of Bede.
Mr Ebdon, an architect, brother to the present organist, published two excellent views of the choir of this church.
Into this sumptuous new church was the last and great translation of St Cuthbert, but before the day came, prior Turgot, with some of his brethren, determined to open his tombe with intent to shew his body to the people, if they found it entire: Att night, therefore, they mett at his sepulchre, and reverently taking off the stone, they found a chest well fortified with nayles and leather, and in it another wrapt in cloth thrice double, in which they found the booke of the evangelists which had fallen into the sea, a little silver altar, a goblet of pure gold, with an Onyx stone, and an ivory comb: Lastly, opening the third chest, they found the body of the saint (which the grave in so many years had not digested) lying upon the right side to give room to the rest of the reliques: For in the same coffyn were the bones of Venerable Beda, the head of St Oswald, part of the bones of Aidanus, Eadfrid, and Ethelwold, bishops of Lindisfarne: All which reliques they placed with due reverence in other parts of the church; and laying St Cuthbert on his back, they placed St Oswald's head between his bands. At the day of his translation, Ranulphus, the bishop, published in his sermon to the people, the incorruption of St Cuthbert's body, which, after four years was flexible, and now might plead prescription with the grave to be immortale. And thus in great solemnity they inshrined him beneath the high altar in the presence of the abbot of St Albans, the abbot of St Maries, in Yorke, the abbot of St Germans, prior Turgot, with thousands of people spectators of the miracle. Hegge's Legend, p. 23.
In 1284, William, bishop of Dumblain, granted an indulgence whereby every one who visited this saint's shrine were to be excused forty days of their penance. The original record is still in the chapter library; and a copy of it is published in the appendix to Dr Smith's edition of Beda, No 26.
, and on each side are two stalls in stone, originally designed for the resting places of sick votaries.
Pennant, 332.
Many travellers have been equally deceived; care was taken to scrape the work, which proved that the whole is a composition like what is now called plaster of Paris; and by Davies it is called
French Pierre
or
Lardoise;
Chambre calls it
Lavadose.
. The altar screen, which is very beautiful, is thus spoken of by Chambrè:
The marble tomb for St Cuthbert's feretory being finished, at the like instance of the prior and monks, lord John Nevil gave to the church the work above the altar, called
lavadose,
which cost him six hundred marks, and was enclosed in cases, and sent from London by shipping
Wharton's Ang. Sac. 769.
.
This screen is in pinnacle work, of plaster of Paris, with pedestals for statues, richly canopied: Was put up at the expence of the convent, and finished by prior John Berrington, of Walworth, in the year 1380, when the high altar was dedicated with much solemnity
There lay on the high altar a book richly covered with gold and silver, containing the names of all the benefactors to St Cuthbert's church, from the first foundation thereof: The letters of the book being for the most part gilt. The same is yet extant.
There is also another book yet extant, containing the reliques, jewels, ornaments, and vestments that were given to the church by those founders, whose names were on record in the book that lay upon the high altar. —Davies, &c.
This book is still preserved in the Cottonian Collection, Domitian VII. 2. It anciently had a very rich cover, which is lost, it being now bound in red leather, with the arms of the Cottons in gold: On the first leaf of vellum is written a distich in the Saxon character, expressing that there was enclosed under the silver cover a register of benefactors, &c.
St Cuthbert's book of the gospels, with the Saxon version, is also preserved in this collection. Strutt in his Chronicle engraved a page of that elegant work. Vol. i. 347.
In a curious MS. in the Herald's-office, are beautifully drawn all the arms in this church, comprising one hundred and seventeen coats; together with bishop Hatfield's monument, of which Mr Allan has a trick from the late Ra. Bigland,
Esq
Garter. Dugdale's MS. notat. 6. 41.
The book of the evangelists here mentioned was originally written by Edfrid, then a monk and afterwards bishop of Lindisfarne, who, during his retirement in that monastery. translated the gospels into Latin. After his decease it was decorated with gold and jewels by his successor Ethelwold, and curiously painted by Bilfrid, an anchorite. Prefixed to it are the prefaces and canons of Eusebius and Hieronymus, besides an inter
neary Saxon version by Aldred the priest. At the end of St John's gospel are these lines added in a contemporary hand.
† "Litera me pandat, sermonis sida ministra,
"Omnes alme meos fratres cum voce saluta."
After it is
† Trinus et Unus Deus Evangelium hoc ante saecula constituit.
† Mattheus ex ore Christi scripsit.
† Marcus ex ore Petri scripsit.
† Lucas de ore Pauli apostoli scripsit.
† Johannes in prochemio deinde eructavit verbum,
Deo donante et spiritu sancto scripsit.
Then follows a Saxon writing, signifying it to be the work of the afore-named Edfrid, Ethelwold, and Bilfrid; and also of Aldred the priest, author of the Saxon version.
This truly venerable piece of antiquity after the Reformation fell into the hands of Sir Robert Cotton, and is yet preserved in the Cottonian Collection, in the British Museum.
.
By a door at each end of the table, you enter into St Cuthbert's feretory, thus spoken of by Mr Pennant,
Behind the altar stood the shrine of St Cuthbert, once the richest in Great-Britain: The marks of pilgrims' feet in the worn floor still evince the multitude of votaries: At the dissolution his body was taken out of the tomb, and interred beneath.
It is now stripped of every ornament; is thirty-seven feet in length, and twenty-six in width, eastward from the altar screen; raised with stone work about eight feet high, and surrounded with wainscot, in which no great elegance appears; it is formed with apertures divided by columns, and ornamented with an entablature: The pillars are finished with light pinnacles of tabernacle work: In ancient times it is presumed the wainscot was covered within with rich hangings. The marble monument which John lord Nevil gave to inclose St Cuthbert's remains, is no more; a large blue stone is placed in the floor, where his bones rest, and it is presumed have long testified their corruptibility
St Cuthbert's
eretory.
Next to the nine altars was the monument of St Cuthbert, having the high altar on the west, in the midst whereof his shrine was exalted with most curious workmanship, of fine green marble, gilt with gold; having four seats or places underneath the shrine, for pilgrims or lame men, sitting on their knees to rest on, in the time of their devout offerings. It was esteemed one of the most sumptuous monuments in all England, so great were the offerings and jewels bestowed upon it.
At the west end of this shrine was a little altar for mass to be said on, only upon the great and holy feast of St Cuthbert's day in Lent: At which solemnity the prior and the whole convent did keep open houshold in the frater-house, and dined all together, and on no day else in the year: And at this feast, and certain other festival days, they were accustomed to draw up the cover of St Cuthbert's shrine, being of wainscot, having six very fine sounding silver bells fastened to the rope; which, at the drawing up of the cover, made a goodly sound; which said cover on the outside was very finely and artificially gilded. And on either side were painted four lively images; on the east end the picture of our Saviour sitting on the rainbow to give judgment; on the west end was the picture of our Lady, and Christ on her knee; and on the height of the cover from end to end was a fine brattishing of carved work, cut throughout with dragons, fowls, and beasts; and the inside of the cover was all varnished and coloured with a fine sanguine colour; and at every corner of the cover there was a lock to lock it down.
Also within the said feretory, both on the north side and the south, there were almeries of wainscot, varnished, finely painted, and gilt over with little images, for the reliques of St Cuthbert to lie in; and within the almeries did lie all the holy reliques that were offered to St Cuthbert; and when his shrine was drawn, the almeries were opened, that every man might see the holy reliques therein, accounted the most sumptuous and richest jewels in all this land; for great were the gifts and godly devotion of kings, queens, and other estates, at that time, towards God and holy St Cuthbert in this church.
Within this feretory were many little pictures of saints, of imagery work, all of alabaster, set in the French Pierre in their several places, the pictures being curiously engraved and gilt; and the Nevil's cross and bulls head set upon the height; and on either side of the two doors in the French Pierre, and also in divers other places of the French Pierre besides; which feretory and French Pierre were made at the charges of John lord Nevil.
At the east end of St Cuthbert's feretory were wrought upon the height of the irons towards the nine altars, very fine candlesticks of iron, like unto sockets, which had lights set in them before day, that every monk might have light to see to read their books at the said nine altars, when they said mass; and also to give light to all others that came thither to divine service.
The king of Scots' ancient and his banner, with divers other noblemen's ancients, were all brought to St Cuthbert's feretory; and there the said lord Nevil offered the jewels and banners; and there the said banners and ancients stood and hung till the suppression of the house. The lord Nevil's banner staff was all wrythen about with iron, from the midst upward, and stood on the north end of the feretory: And the king of Scots' banner hung over the midst of the alley of the nine altars, under St Catharine's window, in the east end of the church; and a little after the suppression of the house, they were all taken down, spoiled and defaced, that the memory thereof should be clean taken away, being both a great honour to the realm, and a decent ornament unto the church.
St Cuthbert's shrine defaced.
The shrine of St Cuthbert was defaced at the visitation held at Durham, for demolishing such monuments, by Dr Lee, Dr Henley, and Mr Blithman, in king Henry the Eighth's reign, at his suppression of religious houses. They found many goodly and valuable jewels, especially one precious stone, which was of value sufficient to redeem a prince. After the spoil of ornaments and jewels, they approached near to his body, expecting nothing but dust and ashes; but perceiving the chest he lay in strongly bound with iron, the goldsmith with a smith's great fore-hammer broke it open, when they found him lying whole, uncorrupt, with his face bare, and his beard as of a fortnight's growth, and all the vestments about him, as he was accustomed to say mass, and his metwand of gold lying by him. When the goldsmith perceived he had broken one of his legs, in breaking open the chest, he was sore troubled at it, and cried, Alas! I have broken one of his legs; which Dr Henley hearing, called to him, and bade him cast down his bones: The other answered he could not get them asunder, for the sinews and the skin held them so that they would not separate. Then Dr Lee stept up to see if it were so, and turning about, spake in Latin to Dr Henley, that he was intire, though Dr Henley not believing his words, called again to have his bones cast down: Dr Lee answered, if you will not believe me, come up yourself, and see him: Then Dr Henley stept up to him, and handled him, and found he lay whole: Then he commanded them to take him down; and so it happened contrary to their expectation, that not only his body was whole and uncorrupted, but the vestments wherein his body lay, and wherein he was accustomed to say mass, were fresh, safe, and not consumed. Whereupon the visitors commanded him to be carried into the revestry, till the king's pleasure concerning him was further known; and upon the receipt thereof, the prior and monks buried him in the ground under the place where his shrine was exalted. Davies, &c.
In 1255.
Henry III. beinge in theise partes, visited St Cuthbert, (as they call it) and while he was at his devocions, a courtyer whyspered in his care, that dyvers byshops of his had hydden muche treasure in St Cuthberte's tombe. The kinge made shorte, and openinge the tombe, sound it to be even foe; whereupon he devised to borowe the same, least they should charge him with prophanation of the holye reliques: But Paris compleneth, that they weare never halfe payed againe.
Lambard's Topographical and Historical Dictionary, page 86.
In this new church was erected a sumptuous shrine, called the feretory, about three yards from the ground, behind the high altar, at the east end of the choir, where his body was solemnly placed in an iron chest within the said shrine, where it lay quietly without molestation, till the suppression of the church: And the book of the four evangelists which fell into the sea, and was so miraculously landed and found again, was laid on the high altar, as a fit monument to preserve the memory of so great a saint.
These holy bishops and monks, for the honour of their holy saint, Aldwinus, and Ranulph Flamberd, as bishop William Carileph intended at building the new church, on the outside of the north west turret of the same altars, erected the monument of a milk-maid milking her cow, in grateful commemoration of that maid, who so fortunately, in their great perplexity, directed them to Dunholme, where the body of their great saint was to rest until the resurrection: Which monument, though defaced by the weather, is visible at this time.
Dr William Watson, alias William Wylome, master and keeper of the feretory, and vice-prior at the dissolution.
The master of the feretory's chamber was in the dormitory, his office was when any man of honour or re
was disposed to offer prayers to God and St Cuthbert, or to offer any thing at his shrine; if they requested to have it drawn, or to see it, the clerk of the feretory (called George Bates) gave notice to his master, the vice-prior, keeper of the feretory, who brought the keys of the shrine, and gave them to the clerk to open it. His office then was to stand by and see it drawn up. It was always drawn up in mattins time, when Te Deum was singing, or in high mass time, or at even-song time when Magnificat was sung. George Bates was register of the house.
There was in the keeping of the vice-prior, a banner belonging to the shrine, called St Cuthbert's banner, the staff five yards in length; all the pipes of it were of silver, to be slidden on along the banner staff, and on the uppermost pipe; on the top of it was a little silver cross, and a goodly banner cloth pertaining to it, and in the midst of the banner cloth was a white velvet half a yard square, and a cross of crimson velvet over it; and within the said white velvet was that holy relique, the corporax cloth, wherewith the holy man St Cuthbert covered the chalice when he said mass; and the rest of the banner cloth was of crimson velvet, embroidered with gold and green silk most sumptuously. The said banner was at the winning of Brankenfield battle, in king Henry the Eighth's time, and brought home with it the king of Scots' banner, and many noblemen's ancients of Scotland; which were set up in St Cuthbert's feretory, where they remained till the suppression of the house; at which time St Cuthbert's banner, and these ancients of Scotland were defaced. St Cuthbert's banner was thought to be one of the most magnificent reliques of any in England, and was not carried out but on principal days, in general processions, as Easter day, Ascension day, Whitsunday, Corpus Christi day, and St Cuthbert's day, and some other festival days. It was very massy, and set up at the east end of the shrine. Whenever it was carried in procession, it was the clerk's office to attend it, with his surplice on, with a fine red painted staff, having a fork or cleft at the upper end thereof; which cleft was lined with soft silk, having down under the silk, to prevent hurting or bruising the pipes of the banner, which were of silver, or in taking it down and raising it up again, by reason of its great weight. There were always four men to go along with it, besides the clerk, and the man who carried it.
There was also a strong girdle of white leather, that he who bore St Cuthbert's banner, did wear whenever it was carried abroad. The banner was made fast to it with two pieces of white leather, and at each end of the two pieces, a socket of horn was fastened, to put the end of the banner staff into. Davies, &c.
The iron-bound chest, which tradition says contained the saint's body, long lay neglected in the bishop's palace. It is accurately represented in the plate.
The Chest in which St Cuthberts Body was deposited
. In the choir bishop Beaumont and bishop Pilkington were interred.
The ailes of the choir are vaulted like the ailes of the nave. In the north aile, opposite to bishop Skirlaw's tomb, is a stone seat with the shields of his arms. There St Blase's altar stood. What is said in the ancient descriptions of this church, touching a porch called the
anchorage,
of which no remains is to be traced, or of the stairs described to adjoin to the north door of St Cuthbert's feretory, confirms our judgment that the whole east end of this edifice was altered in the thirteenth century; and it is to be observed, that the columns at the ends of the ailes are
A PEDIGREE OF THE FAMILY OF NEVILLS.
A Johannes de Neville, dus Latim. ob. s. p. 9 Hen. VI.
A Matilda, fil Tho. I
ni Clifford.
Matilda,
Alicia,
Philippa,
Margareta,
Anna,
Margeria,
et Elizabetha.
B Elizab.
C Radulphus N co. Westmer. obiit 4 Hen. VI.
Margareta, fil. Hugonis co. Stafford, ux. 1ma .
Radulphus, ob 21 Oct. an. 1426, 5 Hen. VI.
Maria, fil. Tho. Ferrers, de Oversley.
Johannes, ob. 2 Hen. VI vivo patre.
Elizabetha. fil. Tho. Holland com. Cant.
Johannes Caesus in Praelio de Towton, 1 Ed. IV.
Anna, relicto Johannis Nepotis sui.
Radulfus, co. West.
Margareta, fil. R. Booth de Barton, co. Lanc. mil.
Anna, ux. Will. Coniers, mil.
Radulfus ob. vivo patre.
Editha, fil. W. Sands.
Radulfus, com. Westmerl. ob. 15 Hen. VIII. Regist. Antiq. Dec. et cap. Dunelm. vol. V. p. 131.
Catharina fil. Edw. Dux, Buckingham.
Eleanora,
Maria,
Th. Danby, mil.
Dorothea,
Johi, com. Oxon.
Johanna.
Margareta,
Hen com. Rut.
Elizabetha,
Tho d'Dacre.
Eleanora,
Brianus Stapilton, mil.
Anna.
Fulco Greville, mil.
Ursula.
Henricus, co. Westmer. ob. 5 Elizabetha.
Jana, fil. Tho. com. Rutland.
Carolus, co. Westm. attinctus 13 Eliza.
Anna, fil. Henrici, co. Surriae.
Catharina,
Tho. Gray, de Chillingham, mil.
1 Eleanora, ux. Williel. Polham, mil.
Eleanora, ob. innupta.
Margareta,
Nich. Pudsey.
Anna, David Engleby.
2 Catharina, ux. Johannis Constable, mil.
3 Maria.
4 Adelina.
Margareta, fil. R. Chomley, mil. relicta Hen. Gascoin, mil ux. 2d.
Margareta.
Elizabetha.
Thomas.
Edwardus.
Christopher.
Radulphus.
Cuthbertus.
Radulfus. co. Westm. ob. 2 Rich. III.
Elizabeth, fil. H. Perci Hotspur dicti.
Johannes, ob. 29 Hen. VI. S. P. Anna, ux. P. Walliae, et Rich. D. Gloucest.
Johanna, fil. Johan Ganda
. D. Lan. ux. 2d.
1 Ricardus com. Sarum.
2 Wilielmus das Falconbridge.
4 Edwardus dus Bergavenniae.
5 Robertus Episcopus Dunel.
6 Cuthbertus.
7 Henricus.
8 Thomas.
3 Georgius dus Latimer, ob. 9 Hen. IV.
Elizab. fil. Rich. de Bello Campo, co. Warwick.
Henricus Neville Caesus in Praelio de Edgcote, 9 Ed. IV. vivo patre.
**** fil. Domini Berners.
Ricardus, N. dus Latimer, ob. 22 Hen. VIII.
Anna, fil. Humf. Stafford. de Grafton, co. Wig.
Johan. N. Dus Latimer.
Catharina, fil. T. Parr, de Kendall, mil. relicta, Hen. VIII. ux. 2d.
Margareta.
Johannes, D. Latimer.
Lucia, fil. Hen. co Wigorn.
1 Catharina, ux. Henr. com. Northumb.
2 Dorothea, ux. Tho. com. Oxon.
3 Lucia, ux. Will. Coruroallis, mil.
4 **** ux. Johannes Danvers, mil.
Dorothea, soror et cohaeres, Johan. com. Oxon, ux. 1st.
Illustrissimum Nevillorum genus hospes est in Historia Anglicana qui non novit? et si longa proavorum series tam a regio sanguine Saxonum quam a primoribus Normannorum deducta, summisque cum honoribus tum et opibus per multa retro secula clarescens quenquam nobilitare possit palmam omnibus fere regni proceribus familia haec merito praeripere audeat. Nulla equidem plures aut vegetiores Stirps ramos unquam protrusit: hinc etenim Comites Westmerlandiae, Sarisburiae, et Warwici; hinc Marchio Montisacuti; hinc Dux Bedfordiae; hinc Barones Furnivallis, Latimeri, Falcon-bridgiae, et Bergavenniae Germinarunt; cum vero Richmondiae limitibus excedere nostri non sit instituti stemmata solum Comitum Westmerlandiae et Baronum Latinerorum hujus erunt loci.
Waltheof.
Uctredus, Comes Northumbriae.
Crinan
Maldred.
Cospatricus, fil. Maldredi.
Cospatricus, (vid. Sym. Dun. p. 79, 80.)
Waltheof.
Dolphin, fil. Maldredi.
Robertus, fil. Maldredi dus de Raby.
Isabella, fil. unica et haeres.
Galfridus de Neville dus de Raby.
Galfridus de Neville, ob. 13 Ed. I.
Margareta, fil. et haeres Johannis de Longvillers.
Johannes.
Robertus, ob. 10 Ed. I.
Ida, Rob. Bertram, vid.
Dugd. Barr. vol. 292. Robertus iste de Neville membra generationis manibus irati viri cujusdam ingenue quam carnaliter cognoverat apud Cravon perdidit.
Robertus de Neville, junr. ob. vivo patre 55 Hen. III. June 6th, 1427.
Maria, fil. et una coh. Radulphi fil. Ranulphi.
Radulphus de Neville, ob. 5 Ed. III.
Eufemia, fil. John Clavering, ux. 1st.
Robertus Pavo Septentrionis, ob. vivo patre.
Margeria, fil. Marmaduci Thweng, ux. 2d.
Radulfus de Neville, Dus de Middleham, ob. 41 Ed. III.
Alicia, fil. Hugonis de Audley.
Johannes de Neville, ob. 12 Rich. II.
Elizabetha fil. et h. dui Latimer de Danby, ux. 2d.
A
Matilda Perci, uxor ejus 1• .
B
Elgiva, fil. Ethelredi, regis Angl.
Aldgitha.
Gilbertus de Neville, Normanus.
Galfridus de Neville.
Galfridus de Neville, ob. 5 Rich. I.
Emma, fil. et haer. Bertram de Bulmer, Dus de Brancepeth.
Isabella, fil. unica et haeres.
Henricus, ob. s. p. 11 H. III.
clustered, of various small pilasters, like those of the whole east transept: The arches are pointed, and with the capitals of the columns richly wrought in pierced work like those of the high altar: This aile is lighted by four windows, three of which are of pointed arches, and two made by John Tickhill, in prior Fossour's time. At the east end of the south aile, was also an ancient porch, described to be similar to that on the north where the rood of Scotland was placed; of which there are no remains: Under the last window the wall is ornamented with pilasters and tabernacle work, and there is a door-way (now shut up) which led into the cemetery garth
The north aile of the choir.
At the east end of the north aile of the choir, betwixt two pillars, was the grandest porch, called the anchorage; having in it a very elegant rood, with the pictures of Mary and John, with an altar for a monk to say daily mass, being in ancient times inhabited by an Anchorite, whereunto the priors very much resorted, both for the excellency of the place, as also to hear mass, standing so conveniently unto the high altar, and withal so near a neighbour to the shrine of St Cuthbert. The entrance to this porch or anchorage was up a part of stairs adjoining to the north door of St Cuthbert's feretory, under which stairs the paschal did lie, and in the time of Lent, the children of the almery were enjoined to come thither daily, to dress, trim, and make it bright against the paschal feast.
In this north aile of the choir, betwixt two pillars on the south side, before St Blase's altar, afterwards called Skirlaw's altar, lies buried, Walter Skirlaw, bishop of Durham, under a fair marble stone, very sumptuously beset with many brazen images, having his own image most artificially portrayed in brass in the midst thereof.
Right over the entrance of this north alley, going to the song school, which was heretofore the sacrist's exchequer, there was a porch adjoining to the choir on the south, and St Benedict's altar on the north; the porch having in it an altar, and the rood or picture of our Saviour, having sumptuous furniture for the festival days belonging to it.
The south aile of the choir.
At the east end of the south aile of the choir, opposite to the aforesaid porch in the north alley, was a beautiful rood or picture of our Saviour, called the black rood of Scotland, with the pictures of Mary and John, brought out of Holy-rood house, in Scotland, by king David Bruce, and won at the battle of Durham, with the picture of our Lady on the one side of our Saviour, and St John on the other side; which
ood and pictures were all richly wrought in silver and were smoaked back over, being a yard or five quarters long, and on every one of their heads, a crown of pure beaten gold, of goldsmith's work; with a device to take them off and to put them on. And on the backside of the said rood there was a piece of work that they were fastened unto, adorned with wainscot work and curious painting, from the midst of the pillar up to the height of the vault; which wainscot was red, varnished over, and set full of stars of lead, gilt with gold.
Thomas Hatfield, bishop of Durham, lies buried over against the revestry door, in the south aile of the choir, betwixt two pillars, under the bishop's throne, which he made before he died: His tomb being all of alabaster, whereunto was adjoined a little altar, which he prepared for a monk to say mass for his soul after his death; the altar being environed with an iron grate.
Within this south aile of the choir was the revestry, where the bishop or his suffragan had a peculiar altar, and used to say mass only at such times as they were to consecrate priests or give any holy orders.
In the north aile of the choir were four coloured glass windows
The first had four long lights and a casement: In the first light was pictured our blessed Lady, with Christ in her arms, with a triple crown of gold on her head: In the second light, St Anne: In the third light, Mary Magdalen: In the fourth light St Mary, Cleophas, and Salome: And one tower window.
In the second were four lights: In the first was St Michael the Archancel, with a sword in one hand, and a staff with a cross thereon in the other hand, killing the dragon: The second light had St Catherine, with the wheel in her hand, and a naked sword; above her head Sancta Catherina: In the third light, our Lady with Christ in her arms; above her head Sancta Maria; under her feet the picture of a monk in a blue habit, praying; above his head, Mater Dei miserere mei; and under his feet, Dominus Georgius Comforth: And in the fourth light, St Cuthbert, with king Oswald's head in his hand, and above him written, Sanctus Cuthbertus: And above all were seven tower lights of white glass, and below two knots of white glass.
In the third were four lights: In the first was the picture of St Oswald, king, with a cross on his breast: In the second light, St Cuthbert: In the third light, St Gregory: In the fourth light, a monk travelling to the sea side, and washing his feet, who found St Cuthbert standing in the sea, above his shoulders, holding up his
and saying his prayers: Also another monk lying on the top of a rock, leaning his head on his hand,
beholding St Cuthbert, where he stood in the sea at his prayers.
ove these were seven tower windows, in fine coloured glass, having several pictures in them.
In the fourth window were four lights, containing in the first the picture of bishop Aidane: In the second, St Cuthbert: In the third, St Mary: And in the fourth, St Oswald, the king, in coloured glass. And three turret windows, having the pictures of two angels offering incense, with twelve coloured knots.
The south aile of the choir.
In the first window were four lights: The first had St Cuthbert, with king Oswald's head in his hand: The second, St Oswald, the king, with his scepter in his hand: The third, Mary, with Christ in her arms: The fourth, St George in blue armour, killing the dragon; and underneath four escutcheons, with the arms of St Cuthbert, St Oswald, our Lady, and St George: And above all three turret windows in white glass, with knots finely wrought in coloured glass upon them.
The second window had four lights: In the first, the picture of St Peter with keys in his hand; above his head, Credo in Deum: In the second light, St Andrew, above his head, Et in Jesum Christum: In the third light, St James, with a staff and crosier on it in his hand; above his head, Qui conceptus, &c. In the fourth light. St John; above him, Passus sub Pontio, &c. And thirteen turrets, and the picture of God, in fine coloured glass, above all.
In the third window were four lights: In the first was St Thomas; above his head, Descendit ad inferos & resurrexit a mortuis: In the second light was St James, minor; and above, Et sedit ad dextram, &c. In the third light St Philip; and above Inde venturus, &c. And in the fourth, the picture of St Bartholomew; and above, Credo in spiritum sanctum. And four fine knots, in coloured glass, and sixteen tower windows, in white glass.
In the fourth window were four lights: In the first was St Barbara, with a castle in her hand: In the second, St Andrew: In the third, St John the Evangelist: And in the fourth, St James, with a pilgrim's staff in his hand, and his scrip about him: And above, three tower windows; and in the highest, the picture of Christ crucified, with Mary and John on each hand, in finely coloured glass.
In the vestry are four windows.
The first towards the east was the finest window, containing five long lights, divided with stone work, having in the middle the picture of Christ crucified; and above his head a pelican pictured, giving her blood to her young ones; on one side, the picture of our blessed Lady; and the picture of St John the Evangelist. And the picture of Venerable Bede in a fine blue habit, on the north side of our Lady; and St Leonard on the south side of St John, all in coloured glass.
In the second window were three proportionable lights: In the first was the picture of St Oswald, with a ball and a cross in one hand, and a scepter in the other: In the second, the picture of our Lady, with Christ in her arms: And in the third, the picture of St Cuthbert, with St Oswald's head in his hand, and the picture of a monk, called Thomas Moresby, devoutly kneeling, with Mater Dei miserere mei, written above his head.
In the third window were three lights: In the first was the picture of the Salutation: In the second, our Lady, with a little pot before her; and underneath her the prior of Coldingham, named W. Drape, having a crosier staff in one hand, a book in the other, in a black habit, kneeling, with Mater Dei miserere mei, written above his head, and under him, W. Drape. prior de Coldingham: And in the third light, the picture of St Ebba, a prioress, at her prayers, with these words, Ave Maria gratia plena, Dominus tecum.
In the fourth window were three lights: In the first, the picture of bishop Aidane, in his episcopal attire, with his crosier staff in his hand. In the second, the picture of bishop William, in his mass apparel, and a staff in his hand, with a crosier thereupon; and under him a monk in a blue habit, called Thomas Rome, having written under him, Tho. Rome Sacrasta, and above him, Sancte Wilielme ora pro nobis. And in the third light, the picture of St Bede in a blue nabit, all set forth in fine coloured glass. Davies, &c.
. In this aile are the sacristaria and vestry rooms built by prior Hotoun, and opposite thereto the tomb of bishop Hatfield,
who died in 1381, ornamented with as many coats of arms as would serve any German prince
Pennant, 332, continues thus:
Multitudes of other prelates and priors rested in this church, covered with beautiful tombs and brasses, swept away by the hand of Sacrilege in the time of Henry VIII. or of undistinguishing Reformation in succeeding reigns; or of Fanaticism, in the unhappy times in the last century.
In the Antiquarian Repertory, vol. i. p. 178, is a plate of this tomb, with a back view of the upper decorations of the throne.
The large vestry now used by the minor canons, was originally built by Henry de Luceby, who bishop Beke had caused to be elected prior in the room of prior Hotoun, whom he had expelled about the year 1300. During the short time he governed the monastery he was a very great benefactor to it, by repairing the roof of the body of the church, &c. He gave also bells, vestments, and many other ornaments. Anglia Sacra.
In this vestry are preserved five very rich copes, four of which are of great antiquity: The other was given by Charles I. These were used at the communion service, till the late bishop Trevor, as is said, ordered them to be laid aside.
.
Under the vaulting is a recumbent effigy of the bishop in his episcopal attire, of white marble, the work around it gaudily ornamented with gilding and green, and every where covered with blazonings of arms
Vol. i. p. 311.
; of which we have given remarks in the notes to that prelate's life. A corner of this superb monument rests on an ancient tombstone, and has preserved it from the general destruction which swept away the monumental inscriptions, when the new pavement was laid: A mistaken zeal in all reformations has pressed the parties headlong into an extreme, in many points as reprehensible as that which they tried to escape; for a vehement desire of eradicating superstition, urged sacrilegious hands against the monuments of those whose memories were dear to the learned, whose examples and virtues were worthy the emulation of succeeding ages, and with a contempt that was at once irreligious and brutal, reformists rushed forward to deface memorials which they had not merit to purchase. To sweep away from the eye the mementos of monks, priors, and prelates of the condemned church, the tombstones were torn up, lest they should reproach the living with remembrance of the excellencies of the dead: A new pavement was laid down in the beginning of the last century. The monument which prompted this digression, so far as the inscription is legible, covers the remains of Emery de Lomley, prior of the cell of Lathom, in Lancashire, dependant on this church; who was one that voted Robert de Graystanes might have the See of Durham
Passez pur Lame Dom. Emmeri de Lo'lei jadis prior de Le—the rest covered with the building.
Fuit Emerius de Lumley, prior de Lythinne et unus e compromissariis qui elegerunt Robertum de Graystanes, episcopum Dunelmensem, A. D. 1333 V. Ang. Sacr. vol. i. Dugd. vol. i. p. 499. Vocatur, idq. ut videtur rectius, Lythom. oppidulu' est in Agro Lancastriensi, ubi cella suit Caenobij Dunelmensis, quod hodic etiam Lethum dicitur, juxta aestuarium fluvij Ribble positum.—
Randall's MSS.
. Two windows in this aile were made in prior Fossour's time by the feretory.
At the east end of the side ailes are gates leading into the east transept, commonly called the Nine Altars
In the eastern or highest part within the church were the nine altars, being placed north and south, one from another, along the front of the church.
In the middle was the altar of the Holy Fathers St Cuthbert and St Bede.
On the south of which were the four following:
1. The altar of St Oswald and St Lawrence.
2. The altar of St Thomas of Canterbury, and St Catharine.
3. The altar of St John Baptist, and St Margaret.
4. The altar of St Andrew, and St Mary Magdalene; being the outermost towards the south.
In the south angle of the said nine altars, next to the Cemetery Garth, there was an almery, wherein singing bread and wine were usually placed; at which the sacristan caused his servant or scholar daily to give attendance, from six of the clock in the morning, till high mass was ended, out of which to deliver singing bread and wine to those who did assist and help the monks to celebrate and say mass.
Richard de Bury, Bishop of Durham, lieth buried before the fourth of these altars, under a fair marble stone, whereon his own image was most curiously and artificially engraved in brass, with the pictures of the twelve apostles divided and bordered on either side, and other imagery work about it.
On the north side of St Cuthbert's and St Bede's altar were these four following:
1. The altar of St Martin, and St Edmund.
2. The altar of St Peter and St Paul.
3. The altar of St Aldanus, and St Helene.
4. The altar of the holy archangel, St Michael; being the outermost towards the north.
The Rev. dean Graham, prebendary of this cathedral, placed the following inscription to the memory of his two young sons, interred before the second of these altars:
Hic juxta conduntur
Duo fratres innocentissimi
Alter Richardus Graham,
Natu maximus Wilhlmi S. T. P.
Hujus ecclesiae canonici
Et tunc temporis Carleolensis
Nunc Wellensis decani,
Et Mariae uxoris desideratissimae.
Natus Aug. 30, denatus Dec. 22, 1689.
Alter Georgius, quem tertio partu,
Edidit pia mater tertium filium:
Amabilem, docilem, & ingeniosum,
Quem Deus antiquae prosapiae similem,
Et animo & corpore finxerat;
Cui etiam undecenni
Subvenerat memoria consanguineorum
Montross, Dundee, & Preston:
Qui, si singulis immatura mors pepercerat,
Omnes in uno videramus.
Natus Feb. 14, 1692-3.
Obijt Sept. 14, 1705.
Betwixt the two last altars lieth buried Anthony Beke, bishop of Durham, and patriarch of Jerusalem, in a fair marble tomb, underneath a large marble stone, being the first bishop that ever attempted to lie so near the sacred shrine of St Cuthbert, the wall being broken at the end of the alley, for bringing him in with his coffin
His remains were lately disturbed, his scull and several bones were perfect; his cossin was a vast oak chest, bound with iron: Nothing valuable was discovered. The cossin had been a covered with cloth; the impression of the threads remained on the iron and wood.
.
All the altars had their several skreens and covers of wainscot; having likewise between every altar a partition of wainscot, varnished over with branches and flowers, and other imagery work, finely gilded; containing the several lockers and ambryes for keeping the vestments and ornaments belonging to every altar; with three or four little ambryes in the wall.
There is in the east end of the church, a round window, called St Catharine's window, the breadth of the choir, all of stone, very curiously wrought and glazed; having in it twenty-four lights; the picture of St Catharine is on the right side, as she was set upon the wheel to be tormented.
And in the window there was a frame of iron, whereon stood nine cressets of earthen metal filled with tallow, which every night were lighted, to give light to the nine altars, and St Cuthbert's feretory, and burned till day-break.
In the south end there is a great window, which hath in it the whole history, life and miracles of that holy man St Cuthbert, and curiously set forth in fine coloured glass.
Also in the north end there is another great glass window, called Joseph's window, having in it all the whole story of Joseph, in fine coloured glass.
The nine altars.
In the midst was the altar of St Cuthbert and St Bede, above which was a fine long window, with stone work partitions: In the first light was St Cuthbert, with king Oswald's head in one hand, and his crosier staff in the other, in his habit as he used to say mass, viz. his albe and red vestment. In the second light was St, Bede in a blue habit; under their feet were the pictures of two bishops, with crosier staves in their hands, kneeling, in their episcopal attire, with mitres on their heads, one under St Cuthbert, and the other under St Bedu. In the lower lights were the birth of St Cuthbert; and the picture of St Oswald blowing his horn, and St Cuthbert appearing to St Oswald: And bishop Langley's arms in fine coloured glass, and four turret windows containing our blessed Lady with the lilly before her, and the salutation.
The altar of St Oswald and St Lawrence, having above it a window of the shape of the last, having the picture of St Oswald, with a sceptre in his hand, a golden crown on his head, and a cross and ball in his left-hand; under him bishop Langley in his pontifical habit, and above him written, O sancta mater Dei ora pro me: And under him, Orate pro Thomas Langley, episcopo Dunelm. There was also the picture of St Laurence and his gridmon, with the arms and escutcheon of bishop Langley under him, viz. a crown of gold above his helmet, and within the crown, the crest, a bush of ostrich feathers, in red and green painted glass.
The lower lights contain the story of St Oswald's beheading, and being on his bier accompanied by St Cuthbert and others, and the sun-beams shining on them, when they laid him on the bier; together with the story of St Laurence's death. In the cross division are four little lights, bearing four stars or mullets. At the top, were four turret windows, with our Saviour Christ, our blessed Lady, and other figures.
The altar of St Thomas of Canterbury and St Catherine, above which was a window with the like lights, containing the martyrdom of St Thomas in one light: And the story of St Catherine's being brought before the king and tortured on the wheel, with two angels separating the wheels; and after that her commitment to prison, and then looking out at a grate, and the beheading her afterwards in the king's presence; with certain arms and escutcheons, in the four turret windows, under the midst of the said window, divided, and the pictures of four bishops, in four little turret windows, and the picture of our blessed Lady above all, in a blue habit.
The altar of St John the Baptist and St Margaret. The window above had St John the Baptist on the one side, with the lamb and cross in his hand, with these words, Ecce Agnus Dei. Under him a monk, called Thomas Batterby, in a blue habit, and these words, Adjuva me divine magister Sancte Cuthberte. Also his baptizing of Christ in Jordan; his being brought before Herod; and after that beheaded. Then follows St Margaret overcoming the dragon, with these words, Sancta Margareta; then being brought before the king, she was condemned, and by his command was hanged by the hair of the head, and drawn up by a windlass, and put into a tun of oil, which the fire would not consume, and so she was beheaded. And above all are four turret windows, containing the picture of our blessed Lady, and others finely coloured.
The fourth altar was surmounted by its window. In the first light was St Andrew with a cross over his body, and above his head, Sanctus Andreas. On the other side St Mary Magdalen, and under her Sancta Maria Magdalena; and the story of her kneeling at her prayers, and being brought before the king, and sentenced to die; with some part of the story of Christ's anointing and visiting the sick. In the four turret windows are the pictures of the four doctors of the church; St Augustine, St Hierome, St Ambrose, and St Gregory, in fine glass.
The altar of St Martin and St Edmund. In the window above, of the same architecture, was St Martin in a black habit, with a mitre on his head, and a staff in his hand, with a cross on the top thereof; above him these words, Sanctus Martinus archiepiscopus. In the same window were escutcheons charged with coats of arms; and the picture of a wicked spirit, in the likeness of a woman, who had got into the chamber and bed of St Edmund, intending to tempt the holy man to fornication; but she was so abhorred, that he with a rod did beat her out of his bed. Also the picture of St Edmund in a red episcopal attire, with a cross, having a staff under it, in his hand, and these words over him, Sanctus Edmundus episcopus. Above in the turret windows, was bishop Skirlaw's picture, and an angel finely painted on each side. On the other side, under St Edmund, were the arms of doctors and noblemen, on the breasts of four angels in four turret windows.
The altar of St Peter and St Paul, having the like window and lights, containing the picture of St Peter, with cross keys in his hand, and underneath, Sanctus Petrus: Here was the miracle of Peter's walking towards Christ upon the sea. Under the middle stone work were the pictures of four escutcheons charged with arms. Then was represented St Paul persecuting the church at Damascus, and his being struck with blindness, and the manner of his becoming an apostle, having written on his breast. Paule, Paule, quid tu me persequeris? And afterwards his being brought before Caesar, and his being beheaded. And above were four little turret windows with four fine pictures, viz. St Cedda, St Cuthbert, St Aidane, and another bishop unknown: And above all the picture of God.
The altar of St Aidane and St Helena, with the like windows and lights, presenting the picture of St Aidane in his episcopal attire, with a crosier in his hand; whose soul after his death was represented to be carried to Heaven in a sheet by two angels. In this were some part of the history of Christ, and the picture of a king and other saints; as also the picture of St Helena in a blue habit; and the picture of our Lady and the angel Gabriel appearing to her, and the Holy Ghost overshadowing her, with the lilly springing out of the lilly pot; and underneath the middle stone work were four angels. Above were four turret windows, with apostles, and the picture of God above all, in another little window, with Christ in his arms.
The altar of the archangel St Michael. Its window contained the pictures of eight several orders of angels, in eight several distinct pictures, viz. one angel, and under him written, Cherubins, Seraphims. A second, and under him, Arch-angeli. A third, and under him, Angeli. A fourth, and under him, Principatus. A fifth, and under him, Dominationes. A sixth, and under him, Potestates. And above all, in four turret windows, the pictures of four archangels winged, with wheels under their feet, and their names written on their wings. Above all, in one little tower window, the picture of God.—Davies, &c.
Mr Pennant says,
Beyond this, at the extreme east end stood nine altars, dedicated to as many saints; above each is a most elegant window, extremely narrow, lofty and sharply arched: Above these is a round window, very large, and finely radiated with stone work, called St Catharine's wheel, from the form of the wheel used at her martyrdom. In this part of the church is another fine window, divided into circular portions. All the windows in this isle terminate sharply; and were the work of a later age than that of the body of the church; probably the time of prior Fossour.
Page 333.
It is to be observed that the fine paintings in these windows are almost totally defaced, or so mutilated and confused by bunglers who have repaired them, that the histories are not now to be made out, except the story of St Catherine.
, the descent into which is by several steps: It is one hundred and thirty feet in length, and in width from the screen of the high altar fifty-one feet, making the whole length of the church four hundred and eleven feet. St Cuthbert's feretory projects twenty-seven feet into the transept, and is elevated about eight feet above the pavement. This transept is lighted by one large window at each end, under pointed arches, with much tracery, in the glass of one of which was depicted the history of St Cuthbert, and in the other the history of Joseph, both now totally defaced: To the east it is lighted by a double range of windows, the lower tier consisting of nine long windows; in the center of the upper tier is a large circular window, called St Catherine's window, having three long windows on each side, the arches of which are all pointed. By the engraving given from Mr Nicholson's drawing and admeasurement of the whole east end of the church, the reader will distinguish the similarity of stile in this transept and the tower; and, we hope, will be convinced that the observation as to their date is not ill grounded: On the projections of this front are two effigies, in the printed descriptions of the church said to represent bishop William on the south, who began the present edifice; and on the north bishop Flambard, who translated St Cuthbert's body to the shrine prepared for him therein; the first attired in his mitre and episcopal insignia, the other having his head uncovered: But it is more probable they are the effigies of bishop Farnham
Ob. 1257.
, and his contemporary prior Thomas of Melsonby, for bishop Anthony Beke, who died in 1310, was interred near the altar of St Michael, and the wall was broken through to admit his remains; which is a proof this part of the edifice and its altars were then made. We will conclude these observations by saying, it is presumed this most elegant part of the edifice was finished by prior Richard de Hotoun, who, it is certain, roofed the choir, and acceded to the priory in 1289. The pilasters of this transept, from whence rise the groins of the roof, are of an angular projection, light and elegant: On each side of the great window the pilasters consist of a cluster of small circular columns, one of larger dimension in front, and six on each side to form the projecting angle, belted in two places at intervals, with a triple roll, the capitals pierced in flowers; the pilasters between each window are composed of a front column, and four on each side, in an angler projection, belted and capitalled as the larger ones; every other column is of black marble, the intermediate ones of white free stone, which had a beautiful effect before they were, from the mistaken zeal of reformation, daubed over and concealed as they now remain, with washing and oker. Under each tier of windows a gallery runs the whole length of the transept: The nine altars were placed one under each window to the east, the wall ornamented with short pilasters and open niches in the rose figure, exactly similar to the gallery of the dome: The vaulted roof is ribbed, the ribs meet on three circles; the silletings of the ribs are pierced like those of the choir, with roses and crosses: The circles are beautifully ornamented, the most northern one being pierced with a rich garland of flowers; that in the center is sculptured with four figures finely relieved, representing the evangelists kneeling, with their proper emblems: The southern circle is of elegant sculpture, exhibiting the revelation of Christ's nativity.
The gallilee at the west end of the church, as was observed before, was by ancient authors said to be appropriated by bishop Pudsey, for the reception of women, being originally designed for the service of processions: It is in breadth from east to west fifty feet, and from north to south eighty feet; divided into five ailes, by four rows of pillars, running east and west; three pillars and two pilasters, in each range; the pillars formed of four small round columns placed together, whose base is only two feet square; the pilasters consist of two round columns, detached from the walls, their capitals ornamented with a leaf and mouldings; the arches are circular, and cut underneath and on the sides with the zig-zag figure; the roof is not vaulted
A plate in Smith's Life of Bede.
: It is lighted with three large windows to the west, with flat or elliptic arches, and one smaller window at each extremity under pointed arches; to the south, four windows with pointed arches; the north side is built up, and used for the register's office: The old entrance was from the north, by a small yard adjoining to the church-yard, so that the women need not come within the gates of the church: The door circular, with pilasters and mouldings, greatly decayed. The gallilee on the south side is now stalled and benched for the bishop's consistory court
SIGIL ROBER SWYFT
A ET VICAR DVNELM
SPIRITUAL CHANCELLORS.
1530. Wilhelmus Clyfton, decretos doctr. vic. gen. in spir. Thomae Card. Wolsey.
Robert Hyndmers LL. D. vide Reg. Horn, p. 13, and Watson, p. 28, 42, and Robertson, p. 65.
Burnet's Reform. vol. iii. p. 205, accused of misprison of treason.
Fuller's Ch. Hist. lib. viii. p. 20. n. 21.—Rot. Tunstall, c. No 115.—Grey calls him Edward.
1541. Edward Hyndmers, preb. of Durham, 1st stall, Ath. Oxon. vol. i. f. 57, 20. Grey's Notes, MSS.
1543. John Crawsurth, preb. &c. 1st stall. Grey's Notes, MSS.
1558. Anth. Salvayn, S. T. B. Randal's MSS.
1560. William Garnet, LL. B. Reg. Horn, p. 120, rector of Ryton, 1562. Skynner's Reg. 183.
William Franklin, archd. of Durham, and temp. chanc. rector of Houghton-le-Spring, and the last master of Kepier hospital, dean of Windsor, &c.
William Clifton.
Grey's Notes, MSS.
1561. R. Swyft, in utroq. jur. cancellar. & official princ. oc. 21 July, 1561. Reg. Pilkington, p. 56. Rot. Pilk. Lra. A. A. No 5. Oc. 10 Nov. 4. Q. Eliz. 1562. Reg. Barnes, p. 1.—Again 19 May, 1577. Preb. of Durh. 1st. stall, 1574. Reg. Skynner, p. 146.
1577. John Barnes, preb. of Carlisle, vide Gilpin's Life, 190. 3 Stryp. Ann. 463. Fuller's Ch. Hist. lib. ii. 191.
1578. Tho. Burton, LL. B. (postea D.) vic. gen. bishop Barnes, oc. again 7 Jul. 1582.—Preb. of Carlisle.
1582. Clem. Colmore, LL. B. oc. 7 Feb. again 21 Apr. 1587.—27 Jul. 1589, vic. gen. Math. epi. (Hutton) constitut. durante (epi) suo bene placito E. Fo. MS. church, p. 838. Vic. gen. spir. Tobiae epi (Matthew) ad bene placitu' epi, &c. constitutus 23 May, 1595. 9 Ap. 1578, electus fuit unus procuratoru. univ. Oxonien.—Oc. again 21 July, 1598.—Preb. 11. 8 co. Rep. 68. Ath. Oxon. vol. i. f. 124.
1619. Jo. Cradock, A. M. vic gen. Rici epi Neile constit. 6 Aug. 1619: There was a compl. in parl. against him, 19 Jac. l. vid. Petit. Misc. Parl. 152. Journals of the H. of Com. vol. i. p. 710. He died on the 28th of December, 1687, preb. of the 5th stall, and was buried in the cathedral.
1627. Wm Easdale, LL. D. vic. gen. bishop Neile constit. 2 Jan. 1627, and confirmed by dean Hunt and Cha. 9 Jan.—Surrendered 27 Sep. 1631.—Minute Book D. and Cha. Durh. He gave 20 l. to Peter-house, Camb. Carte's Hist. Camb. p. 32.
1631. Thomas Burwell, A. M. vic. gen. bishop Howson constit. 30 Sep. confirm. 14 Oct. bur. in St Marg. church. Westm. 25 Mar. 1673. Le Neve's Fasti, p. 319.
1675. Thomas Ireland, LL. B. vic. gen. bishop Crewe const. 13 Sep. confirmed 29th. Vide Ath. Oxon. vol. ii. Fasti, p. 115. ob. 1676.
1676. Sir Rich. Lloyd, LL.D. const. 16 Dec. and confirmed 17 Jan. Vide Newcourt, vol. i. p. 445.—He was fellow of All-Souls' col. Oxon. took the degree of doctor of law, 15 July, 1662; was an advocate of the arches; afterwards chancellor of Landaff, in the room of Sir Thomas Croft, knt. chancellor of Durham, 16 Dec. 1676; made official of the arches, Sep. 1684; and dean of the peculiars after the death of Sir Rob. Wiseman, whom he succeeded; and judge of the admiralty in the room of Sir Leoline Jenkins. He died in Doctors Commons, 28th June, 1686; and was buried in the church-yard of St Bennet, near Paul's wharf, &c.
1687. Cha. Montague,
Esq
Honoratissimi Sandovicensis Comitis Fil. & A. M. in utraq. academia, vic. gen. bishop Crewe constit 2 Nov. and confirmed 19th. Vide Ath. Oxon. vol. ii. Fasti, p. 220.
1690. Wm Wilson, LL. B. bought the office of Mr Montague: Was drowned at the new bridge, Durham. Grey's Notes, MSS.
1690. James Montague, A. M. sold it to Dr Brookbank, for 1000gs. Grey's Notes, MSS.
1691. John Brookbank, LL. D. of Trinity-Hall, Camb. constit. 1 Sep. confirmed 5th. Died suddenly, 14 Ap. 1724.
1724. Exton Sayer, LL. D. vic. gen. of bishop Talbot, constit. 20 Apr. and confirmed 22 May. Reg. Montague, pars 6to.—He was the eldest son of Geo. Sayer, who was born at Jolby, in the parish of Croft, in the county of York; fellow of Trinity-Hall, Camb.—In 1725, he was chosen member of parl. for Helston, in Cornwall, and appointed commissary of Surry: In 1730, he was chosen member for Totness, in the county of Devon.—He married Catharine, daughter of bishop Talbot. He was made official to the archd. of Canterbury, 1723; and died in 1731.—He was counsel for the earl of Macclesfield, when impeached by the Commons.
1731. Wadham Chandler, A. M. vic. gen. of bishop Chandler. constit. 25 Sept. and confirmed 27th.—He was son to the bishop; educated at Eton school, from whence he was entered of Clare-Hall, Camb.— He died at Aix, in Provence, in France, 1737, and was brought to Durham, and interred in the gallilee.
1737. Richard Chandler, A. M. eldest son of bishop Chandler, constit. 2 Feb. and confirmed 17 June, 1738. He married Elizabeth, daughter of lord James Cavendish, of Stayley-Park, in Derbyshire, and by act of parliament took the name of Cavendish, in compliance with the will of his father-in-law.— He was solicitor of the excise, a commissioner of the customs, and member for Wendover. Ob. 22 Nov. 1769.
1769. William Wynne, LL. D. app. for life, 1 Dec. 1769, and confirmed 20 July, 1770. He accepted the chancellorship of the diocese of London, and resigned that of Durham in October, 1779, in favour of
1779. George Harris, LL. D. who is the present chancellor.—He has published an elegant translation of Justinian's Institute, with notes.
For the comfort of all women and solace of their soul, there was an ancient church in the Fern Island, where the church of that town now standeth; which was appointed for women to repair unto for hearing of mass, and receiving the sacraments. For which purpose here was a chapel dedicated to the blessed virgin Mary, now called the gallilee.
Hugh, bishop of Durham, considering the diligence of his predecessors in building the cathedral church, finished but a few years before his time, and no chapel being then erected to the blessed Virgin, whereunto it should be lawful for women to have access, began to erect a new work at the east angle of the cathedral, for which several pillars of marble were brought from beyond sea; and the work being advanced to a small height, begun, through great clifts therein, to fall down; whence it manifestly appeared unacceptable to God and holy St Cuthbert. Whereupon that work was left off, and a new one begun and soon finished, at the west end of the church for women
It is called the gallilee, by reason, as some think, of the translation thereof; being once begun, and afterwards removed; to which place whosoever resorted, had the benefit of sundry pardons, as appears by a table there set up, containing a catalogue thereof.
Within the gallilee, in a chantry made of blue marble, stood our Lady's altar, a sumptuous monument, finely adorned with curious wainscot work; the wainscot furnished with pictures, in colours and gilding; there mass was sung daily by the master of the song-school, with certain deacons and choristers, the masters playing upon a fine organ in time of mass; wherein the founder, bishop Langley, was most devoutly prayed for: This bishop magnificently rebuilt the said gallilee. There belonged to this altar very sumptuous furniture, not only for principal feasts, but for ordinary service: And for safe-keeping those vestments, and other ornaments belonging to the said altar, there was at both ends behind the portal two close almeries of wainscot.
Thomas Langley, bishop of Durham, lies buried under a marble tomb, within the said chantry, before our Lady's altar.
On the north side of the gallilee was an altar, called the Lady of Pittie's altar, with her picture, carrying our Saviour on her knee, as he was taken from the cross. This altar was intended for a chantry priest to say mass at every day, having above the altar on the wall, a part of our Saviour's passion in large pictures, the other part being above St Bede's altar, on the south side.
There was on the south side, between two pillars, a beautiful monument of blue marble, a yard high, supported by five pillars, one at every corner, and the fifth under the middle; and above the said marble stone and pillars stood a second shrine, to St Cuthbert's, wherein the bones of St Bede were inshrined: It used to be taken down every festival day, when there was any solemn procession, and carried by four monks in time of procession and divine service. It is not improper to transcribe the following verses from the ancient history.
Hugh, bishop of Durham, having finished the chapel called the gallilee, caused a feretory of gold and silver to be made, wherein were deposited the bones of Venerable Bede. In the lower part of the work, the following Latin verses were engraven:
Continet haec Theca Bedae venerablis ossa,
Sensum factori Christus dedit atque datori:
Petrus opus fecit, Praeful dedit hoc Hugo donum:
Sic in utroque suum, veneratus utrumque Patronum.
Anno Milleno ter Centum, septuageno
Postquam Salvator carnem de Virgine sumpsit
Transtulit hoc Feretrum Cuthberti de prope tumba,
Istius Ecclesiae Prior hic, poscente Richardo
De Castro dicti Bernardi, cujus & ossa.
Non procul hinc lapide sub marmoreo requiescunt.
It appears that the bones of St Bede were first laid in the monastery of Jarrow, and afterwards brought to Durham, and placed in a golden coffin on the right side of the body of St Cuthbert.
Egfridus, a priest in that time, viz. 1319, did affirm, that one coffin contained both the body of St Cuthbert, and the bones of the venerable Dr Bede.
On the south side of the gallilee was St Bede's altar, before which his bones and reliques lay, where his shrine was, to whose memory an elegant epitaph fairly written on vellum hangs upon the adjoining wall.—See p. 259.
The reverend Sir George Wheler, knight, one of the prebendaries of this cathedral, a true admirer of Venerable Bede, had several of his children buried near him, and ordered his own body to be interred as near Bede's tomb as it conveniently could, without violating the sacred ashes.
Adjoining to the bottom of the great window, in the west end of the gallilee, was a fine iron pulpit, with iron rails to support the monks in going up, of whom one did preach every holiday and Sunday, at one o'clock in the afternoon.
At the west end of the south angle was a font for baptizing children, when the kingdom was interdicted by the pope; which Thomas Langley, bishop of Durham, procured as a privilege, upon special favour at the pope's hands.
In the west end of the gallilee are four finely coloured windows.
In the first towards the south are three lights; the middle having in it the picture of Christ crucified, curiously painted, with the sun and moon above the head thereof; in the highest part of which light is the picture of the star that appeared to the three wise men; together with the picture of the virgin Mary, with Christ naked, sitting upon her knee.
In the light towards the north, is pictured in coloured glass, the Almighty, having in his hand a ball or globe: And under that the Salutation; and the picture of the Holy Ghost appearing in the likeness of a dove.
In the light towards the south is the picture of our blessed Lady, as she was taken up into Heaven, glorified and crowned; and underneath a lively picture of our blessed Lady, with Christ new born, naked, sitting on her knee, and sucking her breast.
In the second, containing six fine lights of glass, severed, three above and three below.
The middle light above contains the picture of St Cuthbert, in his ordinary episcopal vestments, the image of St Oswald's head painted on his breast, supported with his right-hand, in fine coloured glass. Under his feet is written, Sanctus Cuthbertus quondam Lindisfarnensis episcopus, hujus ecclesiae & patriae maximus patronus.
The light on the north side of St Cuthbert has the picture of St Bede, in his blue habit; under his feet is wrote, Sanctus Beda, qui vitam St Cuthberti, & multa alia, ab ecclesia approbata conscripsit; cujus ossa, in hac capella in feretro contenta.
The light on the south side of St Cuthbert hath the picture of Aidanus the bishop, in fine coloured glass, as he was accustomed to say mass; Under his feet is written, Sanctus Aidanus episcopus Lindisfarnensis ecclesiae primus; primus in hac sanctissima Dunelmensi ecclesia, fuit prioratus.
Under which three lights, by partitions, are three very curious and larger pictures, in fine coloured glass, containing the images of Aidanus, Edmundus, and Eata, three bishops of Lindisfarne, as they were accustomed to say mass. Under Eata's picture is Sanctus Eata Lindisfarnensis episcopus.
And above, in the highest part of this window, are six little glazed lights, in tower manner, in fine coloured glass, containing part of the history of Christ's nativity, the marriage in Galilee, and his miracles done upon earth.
In the third window are also six lights parted as before; in the highest part are three pictures, in fine coloured glass; the middle being the image of the blessed virgin Mary, with Christ in her arms, under whose feet is written, Sancta Maria.
On the north side of her is the picture of St Oswald, king, in coloured glass, with a beautiful cross in his hand; under whose feet is, Sanctus Oswaldus fundator sedis episcopalis Lindisfarnensis, quae nunc est Dunelmensis: Cujus anima in feretro St Cuthberti est humata.
On the south side of her is the picture of holy king Henry, in fine coloured glass, with his sceptre in his hand; under whose feet is written, Rex Henricus.
Under those, in three large lights, and first opposite to St Mary is placed the picture of Thomas Langley, bishop, as he used to say mass, having his arms excellently blazoned above his head; under whom is written, Thomas Langley, rector ecclesiae, ad honorem Dei, episcopus Dunelmensis; & duas cantarias in eadem fundavit & dotavit.
And under St Oswald's, is the picture of bishop Wilfridus, in fine coloured glass, as he used to say mass; under whose feet is, Sanctus Wilfridus primo Lindisfarnensis monachus, post abbas Ripensis, ultimo archiepiscopus Eboracensis; uno anno rexit episcopatum Lindisfarnensem.
And under king Henry is the picture of bishop Cedda, in fine coloured glass, as accustomed to say mass; under his feet, Sanctus Cedda, primo Lindisfarnensis monachus, post abbas in Lestingham, tribus annis rexit archiepiscopatum Eboracensem, & etiam rexit episcopatum Lichfeldensem.
In this window, above the former, are six little glazed tower windows, representing the flight of Joseph and Mary with our Saviour into Egypt, being pursued by Herod, together with most part of the story thereof.
In the fourth window also there are six fine lights, severed as before, containing in the higher part three large pictures in three lights, being the images of three holy kings, great benefactors to the church, and to St Cuthbert, viz. Alured, Guthred, and Elfrid, in their royal apparel, with scepters in their hands, in fine coloured glass.
Under them are, in large pictures, in fine coloured glass, three bishops of Lindisfarne, as they used to say mass: Under their feet is to be seen, Sanctus Egfridus Lindisfarnensis. Sanctus Ethelwoldus Lindisfarnensis.
Under the third, no writing to be seen, but Episcopus.
In the highest part of this window are six little tower windows, finely coloured and glazed, containing the most part of the story of Christ's death, burial, resurrection, and ascension, most excellently pictured in fine coloured glass.
St Bede's shrine defaced.
The shrine of holy St Bede, before mentioned in the gallilee, was defaced by the visitors, and his bones were interred under the same place, where before his body was exalted.
There were two stones that belonged to St Bede's shrine in the gallilee, of blue marble, which after it was defaced, were brought into the body of the church, and now lie opposite to the east most tomb of the Nevils, joined together.
Many were the rich jewels and reliques appertaining to this church. King Richard gave his parliament robe of blue velvet, wrought with great lions of pure gold, an exceedingly rich cope. There was another cope of cloth of gold given to the church, by another prince.
The vice-prior had the keys and keeping of St Bede's shrine in the gallilee.—Davies, &c.
. In the center of the east wall was an altar dedicated to the holy virgin
On the wainscot which was formerly the back of the altar, in gold letters on a blue ground.
Sta. Maria divina mater: Sta. Maria regina celi. Sta. Maria mater Dei Sta. mater. Virgo Virginum.
Sta. Maria.
Near the roof in black letters.
Iudicium Iehovae est
Domine Deus da servo tuo cor intelligens ut judicet populu'. tuu'. et
discernat inter bonu'. et malum.
; to the south of which lies the marble stone which covers the remains of Venerable Bede
Inscriptio tabulae quae juxta Baedae tumulum in capella B. Mariae Dunelmi hodieque ad murum appenditur.
BEDA Dei famulus & presbyter Vir non minus sanctitate quam scientia VENERABILIS Hic jacet Qui natus in territorio monasterij Girwicensis quod nunc Jaro dicitur Cum esset annorum septem datus est abbati Benedicto & de inde Ceolfrido ibidem educandus, cunctumq. ex eo vitae tempus In ejusd. monasterij habitatione peragens omnem meditandis Scripturis operam dedit, atq. inter observantiam disciplinae regularis Et quotidianam cantandi in ecclesia curam Semper Aut discere, aut docere, aut scribere Solebat. Decimo nono autem vitae suae anno diaconatum & tricessimo Presbyteratum, utrumq. a S. Johanne Beverlaco archiep'o Eborum Suscepit VIR OMNI LAUDE MAJOR De quo doctissimi illorum temporum homines hoc elogium protulerunt Anglum in extremo orbis angulo natum Ingenio suo universum orbem superasse Quippe qui omnium pene scientiarum & universae theologiae arcana Penetravit sicut opera ejus & volumina multa orbi christiano notissima Abunde testantur. Quae etiam illo adhuc vivente tanti nominis erant & auctoritatis ut ex ejus Homiliis multa sacris lectionibus sunt addita & ubiq. in ecclesiastico Officio publice & solemniter recitata. Constat eum aliq'do discipulos habuisse celebratissimos praeclara Paulo post ecclesiae lumina ALCUINUM Caroli magni Regis praeceptorem & CLAUDIUM at
que
CLEMENTEM Qui primi Lutetiae docuerunt & Galliam bonis artibus Illustrarunt Obiit in monasterio Girwicensi, A. D. DCCXXXIIII. Aetat suae LIX. Die quo ascensionis Domini memoria celebratur Et ibidem sepultus suit: Sed postea huc Dunelmum primo cum capite regis OSWALDI Et Corpore S. CUTHBERTI Deinde in ista galilea & seretro per HVGONEM episcopum Constructo ossa ejus sunt translata Epitaphium de eodem istud circumfertur Haec sunt in fossa BEDAE VENERABILIS ossa.
This is now preserved in the library.
; his altar being immediately behind Sir Geo. Wheler's monument: Adjoining to the altar of the holy Virgin is the tomb of cardinal Langley
In the fl
or is the following inscription:
John Brimleis body here doth
ly
Who praysed God with hand and voice;
By musickes heavenlie harmonie
Dull mynde he maid in God rejoice:
His soul into the Heavenes is lyft,
To prayse him still that gave the gyft.
Obiit An'o D'ni 1576, Octo. 13.
. From the mode of architecture observed in this place, together with the circumstance of the arms above the entrances, we are led to conjecture that the gallilee in the present form is to be attributed to cardinal Langley, in the beginning of the fifteenth century, who, as was before observed, expended in reparations and additional works therein, 499l. 6s. 7d. The form of the pillars, and the center windows, with the various fragments of ornaments which appear in the outward wall to the west, strengthen the supposition that the present edifice was the cardinal's. Bede died at Jarrow monastery in 734; was translated to this church by bishop Pudsey; and in 1340, found his final resting place under the care of Richard de Barnardcastle in the gallilee, who was interred near the remains
While his remains rested at Jarrow, great resort was made to his grave, and particularly one Elfrid, a priest of Durham, in the beginning of the eleventh century, came yearly upon the day of his death, and spent it in watching and prayer at his tomb; and such veneration he entertained for his remains, that he stole away his bones, and carried them to Durham. Being asked by his friends where they lay, he replied; "No one knows but myself;" and after being further pressed by them, he gave this answer,
Believe me, beloved brethren, and be assured, the same chest that contains the most holy body of St Cuthbert, our father, holds also that of the venerable doctor and monk Bede.
In 1054, when St Cuthbert was removed, the bones of Bede were found in the same chest; and afterwards they were enclosed in a separate chest. In 1154, they were again removed into the shrine made by bishop Pudsey, of pure gold and silver-smith work, enriched with jewels. Speed speaks of this tomb.
: The like veneration induced cardinal Langley to repair and embellish this edifice, as he chose to have his body deposited near the saint: The cardinal also founded a chantry in the gallilee, to the honour of the blessed Virgin, and "glorious confessor St Cuthbert
1500. Rich. &c. dil'co. nob. in xo Dno Joh'i Hochonson cap. &c. Cantar. b. M. Virginis & gl'iosi confessoris S'ti Cuthb'ti ad altare ejusd. V'ginis in Gallilea eccl'e n're Cath. Dun. p' recolend. memoria Tho. nup' ep'i Dun. p'decessor. n'i devote fundat. p' liberam resig. mag'ri Tho. Todd ult. cap. &c. dat. xxvijo . die m. Sept. A'n D'ni 1500, & n're Tr. A'o sexto. R. Fox, p. 34.
1544. Cuthb'tus &c. co'tulit m'ro Rob. Hertborn, A. M. una. c. D'ni Langley, in eccl. cath. Dun. sundat. &c. R. Tunstall, p. 33.
Langley's chantries in the gallilee 16l. 13s. 4d. St Cuthbert's gild 7l. 15s. 11d.
." Bishop Nevil granted a licence for erecting a guild or fraternity to the honour of St Cuthbert, in the gallilee, with a power to purchase lands not exceeding ten pounds a year
As this is the first guild we have had occasion to mention, we will in this place insert the form of the licence. The privilege of guilds is little known at this time: The law construction of the word is "A combination or fraternity of merchants, with liberties and privileges granted by licence of the prince." In our guilds women were admitted. Rot. M. Nevil, Ao 11o . No. 128.
Rob. dei gra. ep. Dun. o'ib's ad quos &c. sciatis q'd nos de gra. u'ra sp'iali & maxime ut pii operis subsequentis p'ticipes, effici valeamus concessimus & licentiam dedimus sp'ialem pro nob. & succ. n'ris quantu' in nob. est Johi Lound, Cli'go, Will'o Raket, Rob'to Rodes, Ric'o Raket, Rob'to Sotheren cap'no, & Joh'i Bynchester cap'no devocionis zelo ac caritatis servore accensis ac'divino intuitu varia onera & pietatis opera perpetuo sustentare & facere defiderantibus q'd ip'i ad landem Dei et honorem S'eti Cuthb'ti quand. fraternitat. fi'e gildam p'petuam de se ipsis ac de al. personis tam de hominibus qua. mulieribus incapella b. Marie virginis infra Gallaleam mo'ast'ii Dun. de novo incipere inire facere fundare ordinare & stabilire, ac personas illas, ac alias quascu'q grato animo impost'u' inhaerentes in fr'es & sorores frat'pitat. se'e gildae p'die'ae recipere admittere & acceptare possint, & q'd fr'es frat'nitat. sive gildae praedictae sic inceptae initae s'ctae sundatae ordinatae & stabilitae si'glis annis de se ipsis unu' magistrum si'e custodem qui regimen gubernationem & supervisum frat'nitat. si'e gildae humo'i ac custodia. oiu. t'rar & ten. reddit. poss'onu. bonor. & catallor. quae eid. frat'nitati si'e gildae exnunc adquiri dari et assignati si'e ad eand. pertinere co'tigerit, h'eat fi'glis annis eligere ordinare et successive constituere ac mag'rum si'e custodem illum de temp'e in tempus quu' opus fuerit & expediens amovere et exon'are ac aliu' ejus loco & no'ie prout eis placuit ponere & substituere neenon com'unitatem inter & de se ip'is facere inire ac sigillu' co'e pro negociis & agendis frat'nitat. sive gildae p'de'a deserviturum h'ere et exercere possint. Et qd mag'r si'e custos p'deus et succ. sui'qui pro temp'e fuerint pro frat'nitate si'e gilda illa ac pro terr. ten. reddit. possionibus bonis catallis ejusdem frat'nitat. sive gildae in quibuscu'q. acco'ibus & placitis
. realibus et p'sonalibus qua. mixtis cujuscunq. generis sint vel naturae p' nomen mag'ri si'e custodis frat'nitat. si'e gildae S'ci Cuthb'ti coram judicibus secularibus ac eccle'iis quibuscu'q. placitent & implacitentur ac placitare & implacitari possint & debeant. Et qd ib. mag'r si'e custos ac si'gli fr'es frat'nitat. si'e gildae p'dcae ac succ. sui co'veniant ac convenire valeant locis & te'p'ib's oportunis qua'do et quocies eis melius placiut ad tractand. & ordinand. pro statu & bono regimine d'cae frat'nitat. si'e gildae ac fr'um & sororu' ejusd. & succ. suor. fine occ'oe inpetico'e perturbac'oe vl impedime'to n'ri vel succ. n'ror justic. escaetor. vicecom. aut alior. Ballivoro. seu min. nr'or v'l succ. n'ror quor' cu'q. In cujus rei T. has L'ras n'ras fieri fecimus pat. dat. xxo . die Julij an. p. n ri undecimo. P' ip'um ep'um.—
Randal's MS.
Est autem galilea eccl. adjecta occident. parti. mag. eccl. Habet in latitudine 5 partes distinctas, & unaquaeque pars arcus 4.
Robert Neville, bishope of Durham, lyithe in a high playne marble tumbe in the galile. As some say, this Nevill made the feretrum St Cuthb'ti as it is now.
There liethe at the hedde of this Neville, Richard de Castro Barnardi, under a flat stone. There liethe at his hed one of the Nevilles. There is also a tumbe of Bede the noble monke.
Two of the Lomeley's ly at the north syde of the churche, in the church-garthe, in vario marmore.
Lel. Itin. vol. viii. fo. 51. b.
.
The cloister
The west alley of the cloisters.
In the west alley of the cloisters, a little to the south of the dormitory door, was a strong house, called the treasury, having a strong door, and two locks upon it. In the midst of the house was a strong grate of iron fixed in the ground-work, and in the roof, and fastened in each wall the breadth of the house, so fast as not to be easily broken. In the midst of the grate was an iron door, with a strong lock, and two great slots of iron to guard it; and within the grate was a square table covered with green cloth, for telling their money. Within this treasury were also kept the evidences of the house, and the chapter seal; as also the evidences of several gentlemen's lands in the country, who thought them safer than in their own custody, in three great chests well locked in the said treasury, but afterwards it was altered; their treasure and money being kept in a strong house over the east gates of the abbey in the South Bailey, now called the exchequer; but in the said old treasury the common chapter seal is still kept.
Over-against the said treasury-house door was a stall of wainscot, where the novices were taught; no strangers or other persons being permitted to molest the novices, or the monks in their carrels, while at study in the cloisters; a porter attending for that purpose at the cloister door.
A little south of the treasury was the song-school, for the instruction of boys, for the use of the choir; the song-school in the south isle of the lanthern being decently furnished with a reading desk, convenient seats, and all other requisites, where prayer was daily celebrated at six in the morning, except on Sundays and holidays.
The dormitory.
On the west side of the cloisters was a large house, called the dorter, where the monks and novices lay. Every monk had a little chamber to himself. Each chamber had a window towards the chapter, and the partition betwixt every chamber was close wainscotted, and in each window was a desk to support their books. On the west side of the said dorter were the like chambers, with their windows and desks towards the infirmary and the water; the chambers being all well boarded.
The novices had likewise their chambers in the south end of the said dorter, adjoining to the aforesaid chambers, having eight chambers on each side. Every novice had his chamber to himself, not having any light but what came in at the foreside of their chambers.
At each end of the dorter was a square stone, wherein was a dozen of cressets wrought in each stone, being always filled and supplied by the cooks, as they needed, to afford light to the monks and novices, at their arising to their mattins at midnight, and for their other necessary uses.
There was a decent place adjoining to the west side of the said dorter, towards the water, called the privies. Two great pillars of stone supported the whole floor thereof; and every seat and partition was wainscotted close on every side.
In the dorter every night a private search was made by the sub-prior, who called at every monk's chamberdoor, to see good order kept, and that none should be wanting. The middle part of it was paved with fine tile stones the whole length: The sub-prior's chamber was the first, as he was to see order kept.
The sub-prior always dined and supped with the convent, sitting at the upper end of the table; and supper being ended, which was always at five o'clock, upon ringing a bell to call one of the novices to say grace, they went to the chapter-house to meet the prior, there to remain in prayer and devotion till six o'clock. Then upon ringing a bell again they went to the
salvi,
and all the doors of the cells, the frater-house, the dorter, and the cloisters, were locked, even at six o'clock, and the keys delivered to the sub-prior, till seven o'clock the next morning.
The Loft.
There was a door in the west end of the frater-house, at which the old monks entered, and then ascended up a pair of stairs, having an iron rail into a loft which was at the west end of the frater-house, above the cellar, where the convent and monks dined and supped together. The sub-prior sat at the upper end of the table, as chief; and they had their meat served from the great kitchen, in at the dresser-window, and brought through the frater-house: The said kitchen served both the prior and the whole convent, having two windows into the frater-house; the one was large for principal days, the other not so large for every day. At the foot of the stairs was another door, leading into the great cellar or buttery, where all the drink stood that served the whole convent.
This loft, since the dissolution of the monastry, was made the dining-room of the fifth prebendary's house.
The monks were accustomed every day after dinner, to go through the cloisters, in at the usher's door, and so through the entry under the prior's lodgings into the centry-garth, where the monks were buried, where they all stood bareheaded a good space, praying among the tombs for the souls of their brethren who were buried there: And when they had done their prayers, they returned to the cloister, and staid till three o'clock, that they went to even-song.
The monks were the only writers of the acts and deeds of the bishops and priors of the church, and of other chronicles and histories: They likewise recorded other most valuable things, as what acts, what occurrences, and what miracles were performed every year. Such were the labours of monks and religious men in ancient times.
The Common House.
On the right hand at going out of the cloisters into the infirmary, was the common-house. It was to have a fire constantly by day in winter, for the use of the monks, who were allowed no other fire; but the master and officers of the house had their own several fires. A garden and bowling alley belonged to the said house, towards the water, for the novices to recreate themselves, leave being first granted; their master attending to see to their good order. In this house once in the year, between Martinmas and Christmas, the master of it kept his
O Sapientia,
a solemn banquet, at which the prior and convent were entertained with figs, raisins, ale, and cakes, but not to excess, being only a moderate scholastical congratulation among themselves.
The Infirmary.
Within the infirmary, underneath the master's lodge, was a strong prison, called the lying-house, ordained for great offenders; as for monks guilty of felony or adultery, where they were imprisoned in chains a whole year, without seeing any one, except the master of the infirmary, in letting down their meat through a trapdoor by a cord, and that at a great distance from the prisoners. But if any of the temporal men belonging to the house offended in the premisses, they were punished by the temporal law.
The Guest-hall.
A famous house of hospitality was kept within the abbey-garth, called the guest-hall and was situate on the west side towards the water. The
terrer
of the house was master thereof, appointed to give entertainment to all estates, noble, gentle, or what other degree soever came thither as strangers. Their entertainment was not inferior to that of any place in England, both for the goodness of their diet, the clean and neat furniture of their lodgings, and all things necessary for travellers; and no man was required to depart while he continued honest, and of good behaviour.
The houses belonging to the second, third, fourth and tenth prebendaries, were erected out of the apartments and other offices belonging to the guest-hall, the hall itself being wholly demolished, nothing remaining except a part of the western wall: But nothing remains to let us know what was in the sixth and twelfth prebendaries houses.
This hall was a stately place, not unlike the body of the church, supported on each side by very fine pillars, and in the midst of the hall a large range for the fire. The chambers and lodgings belonging to it were kept very clean, and richly furnished. They were very pleasant to lie in especially one chamber, called the king's chamber, well deserving that name; such was the stateliness thereof.
The victuals the guests were entertained with came from the great kitchen of the prior, the bread and beer from his pantry and cellars. If they were honourable, they were served as honourably as the prior himself, otherwise according to their quality.
The
terrer
had certain men appointed to wait at his table, and to attend upon his guests and strangers; and for their better entertainment he had always a hogshead or two of wines kept in a cellar pertaining to the said hall
The prior (whose hospitality was such as that, in reality there was no need of the guest-hall, but that the convent was desirous to abound in all liberal and free almsgivings) kept a most splendid and noble house being attended by the best gentlemen and yeomen in the country, and the magnificent service of his house deserved no less; constant relief and alms were daily given, not only to the poor of the city, but to those of the country round about.
The lord prior had two porters, one at the hall door, called Robert Smith, the other at the usher door, at going from the great chamber to the church, called Robert Clark; which two were the last porters to the last prior.
There were certain poor children, called the children of the almery, who were educated in learning, and relieved with the alms and benevolence of the whole house, having their meat and drink in a loft on the north side of the abbey gates, before the suppression of the said house. This loft had a long slated porch over the stair-head, and at each side of the said porch were stairs to go up to the loft, with a stable underneath it, and a door into it, under the stair-head, to go into the said stable. This edifice, at the suppression of the house, became Mr Stephen Marley's lodging. Soon after the suppression he altered it, and took down the porch and stairs that went up to the loft, and made a kitchen where the stable was, and his buttery above where the loft was. The children went to school at the infirmary school without the abbey gates. The last schoolmaster was Sir Robert Hartburne, who continued master till the suppression of the house. He was bound to say mass twice a week at Magdalen's chapel, near Kepier, and once a week at Kimblesworth. The meat and drink these children had, was what the monks and novices with their master had left It was carried in at a door adjoining the great kitchen window, into a little vault at the west end of the frater-house, like a pantry, called the covie. Within it was a window, at which some of the children received the meat and drink out of the covie or pantry window, and carried it to the loft. This clerk waited on them at every meal to keep good order.
There were four aged women who lived in the infirmary, without the south gates of the abbey, each having her several chamber to lie in, being supplied and fed only with the victuals that came from the prior's own table.
In the infirmary was a chapel, where the schoolmaster of the infirmary, (having his chamber and school above it) or some other priest for him, was appointed to say mass to these aged women every holiday and Friday.—Davies, &c.
on the north side of the church is a quadrangle of one hundred and forty-seven feet, having eleven windows on each front, which it is said were glazed, but are now open; the mullions and tracery were lately repaired in a neat Gothic stile. Entering by the west door from the church, the stairs leading to the dormitory are immediately on your right-hand, extending the whole length of the west cloister, forty feet wide, ill lighted, and a melancholy mansion: The center is flagged about six feet wide, the sides having been boarded and enclosed for the monks cells: Under the dormitory was the song-school and treasury
In the collection of records lodged here, there are about ninety royal charters and grants, fifty-two deeds by nobles and barons, and two hundred and sixty-six by inferior gentry; about one hundred and thirty-one by popes, bishops, abbots, priors, and convents, and other religious persons and houses; and one hundred and thirty other original deeds and copies, amounting in all to near the number of six hundred and seventy.
The bishop of Carlisle had
a list of the charters
of several of the kings and nobles of Scotland, granted to the
abbey of Coldingham,
kept in the dean and chapter's treasury here, communicated to him by the Rev. Dr John Smith, preb.—In lord Crewe's time, 1703, one Anderson had an inspection of the records, to obtain evidence touching the dispute of homage from the crown of Scotland; but as the instruments grow less significant, they are more carefully concealed. Among others the following deeds are most curious: A charter of Duncan, k. of Scot. charters of Edgar, Alexander, and David, sons of k. Malc. Canmore, and Marg. his q. Also of David, whilst stiled Comes, and of Henry his son. Many of Malcolm IV. and k. William, sons of Henry, some of kings Alex. II. and III. and of Rob. Bruse, and his son David II and of Rob. II. and III. and James I. of Scot. Grants of the earls of March and Dunbar, Rob. d. of Albany, earls and countess of Douglass, Marr, and Murray. Two charters of Thor. Longus, and several others, of W. de Lyndesey, E. de Lastalrig, W. de Veteri Ponte, Guaterius, & Clarebaldus de Olifard, W. de Mordington, Everardus de Pancatlaht. Walt de Bois, Rad. de Bonkill, W. de Vallibus, &c. There are two orig. charters granted by k. David, stiled the saint, to the predecessor of Swintun. Many grants from the kings of England and bulls of popes, the seals entire, inclosed in wooden cases: Many charters of the bishops of St Andrew's, the chapter of St Andrew's; and two by the bishops of Glasgow, Jocelin and William: Many of abbots, priors, and archd. and their officials: Many of the bishops, priors, and the convent of Durham; and of the priors and convent of Coldingham. Several ancient rent-rolls, services, and retours, process in Curia Romana, notorial instruments, missives, indentures, &c. And here only, so far as is yet known, is to be had a full and compleat series of the royal seals of Scotland undefaced. Here is an old copy of the charter of homage by king Edgar, testifying to be made that year,
That William, the son of William the Great, made a new castle before Babbenburch, upon Robert earl of Northumberland.
Also another shewn by bishop Tunstall, to the protector Somerset, and the lord Maxwell, whereby
Edgar
gives lands by licence of his superior,
to William the bishop, and Turgot the prior, and the monks of Durham, dated at Norham:
Two charters of k. W. Rusus, confirming the former grant of Edgar.
. The common-house, the infirmary, the guest-hall, and other offices, in use before the dissolution, are now converted to other purposes, for the convenience of the prebendaries.
The cloisters were erected at the expence of bishop Skirlaw and cardinal Langley, the former giving thereto 600l. and the latter 238l. 17s. 6d.
Ab An. Dom. 1408, usq. ad annum Don. 1498, expendebantur ad aedificationem claustri Dunelmen. 838l. 17 s. & ob. ex quibus Walterus Skirlaw dedit 600l. ex quibus episcopus vivens 200l. ex mortuo executores 400l.
Skirlaw dedit etiam ad constructionem dormitorij 350 marcas.
Aquaeductus in cellarium derivatus, A. D. 1433.
Lel. Itin. vol. viii.
: They are ceiled in pannels with Irish oak, ornamented, particularly in the east walk, with shields of the arms of various illustrious personages, patrons of the church, blazoned in colours
Mr Lambert points out the arms of Wycliffe, Nevil, Hilton, Vere, Graystock, Eure, Ogle, Bertram, and Skirlaw; many others defaced.
, most of which, from being exposed to the air, are now greatly defaced
The custom of the church of Durham in burying of monks.
The monk, seized with sickness, was conveyed, with all his furniture, &c. from his chamber in the dormitory, to another in the infirmary, in order to have both fire and more convenient attendance; no fire being allowed in the dormitory.
And when his attendants perceived that he could not live, they sent for the prior's chaplain, who staid with him till he yielded up the ghost: Then the barber was sent for, whose office it was to put down the cloths and uncover him, and to put on his feet-socks and boots, and to wind him in his cowl and habit. Thence he was carried to a chamber called the dead man's chamber, in the infirmary, there to remain till night. At night he was removed into St Andrew's chapel, adjoining to the said chamber and infirmary, there to remain till eight o'clock in the morning, the chapel being a place ordained only for solemn devotion. The night before the funeral two monks were appointed by the prior to be mourners, and to sit all night on their knees at the feet of the corpse; and the children of the almery sitting on their knees, in the stalls on each side, were to read David's psalms till eight in the morning, when the corpse was carried to the chapter-house, where the prior and the whole convent met it, and there said their dirge; none being permitted to approach the chapter-house during the time of their prayers for his soul: When ended, the corpse was carried by the monks from the chapter-house through the parlour, the place where merchants used to utter their wares, standing betwixt the chapter-house and church-door, and so through the said parlour into the centry-garth, where he was buried and a chalice of wax laid upon his breast, having his blue bed held over his grave by four monks, during the funeral: Which bed is due to the barber for his duty aforesaid, and making his grave. At the time of his burial only one peal was rung.
The priors of the house of Durham, were accustomed in ancient time, to be buried in their boots, and wound in their cowls by the barber▪ as the monks used to be buried.
The priors, in later times, were buried within the church in the same order and habit, with the mitre and all other furniture, as their predecessors were buried.
The bishops of Durham used in ancient times to be buried in the chapter-house, they not presuming to lie nearer the holy body of St Cuthbert. Their names are graven upon the stones under which they lie, with a cross at the beginning of each name.
Aidanus, bishop of Lindisfarne.
Aldunus or Aldwinus. The first bishop of Durham.
Edmund.
Eared, under the same stone.
Walter, under the same stone with Aldunus.
William I. de Karilepho.
Ranulph.
Alfrid.
William.
Hugh Pudsey.
Philip.
Richard, of Marisco.
Nicholas, of Farnham.
Walter, of Kirkham.
Robert Stichel.
Robert, of the Isle.
Richard, of Kellow.
The last two lie buried before the bishop's seat, under two fine marble stones, with their images in brass, curiously engraven.
Turgot, prior of Durham.
In the said chapter-house, at the upper end, is a fine stall, or seat of stone, where the bishops have always been, and continue to be installed; it being also the place where the bishop sits, when he keeps his visitation for the cathedral church. Next to it a chair of wood is fastened in the wall, where the priors did, and the deans now fit, at that visitation.
In the south side of the chapter-house was a prison, to which such monks were committed for a certain time, who had committed any slight offences among themselves.
In the chapter-house, above the great door, is a fine glass window, containing the offspring of the root of Jesse, in fine coloured glass: On the top is the picture of the blessed Virgin, with Christ in her arms.
The custom of burying bishops in the chapter-house.
The bishops of Durham, when they died, were brought to the abbey church to be interred; and the prior and monks met the corpse at the church-yard gates on the place-green, where they received and carried him through the church into the chapter-house: Great solemnity and devotion, according to the ancient custom was used. The custom was, to bury them with their albe, stole, phannel, and other vestments wherein they used to say mass, a mitre on the head, and a crosier staff in his hand, and so laid in the coffin, with a little chalice of silver, other metal, or wax, placed on the breast; which wax chalice, and the knobs, and the edge of the patten or cover, and the base were gilded.
The prior and monks had the horses, chariot, and all other things that came with the deceased, due to them by ancient custom.
But afterwards the bishops were buried in the church; as their predecessors were in the chapter-house.
At the east end of the chapter-house there is a yard, called the centry-garth, where all the priors and monks were buried. In this garth was a vault made to be a charnel-house, to put dead men's bones in.
There were many gentlemen of great worth buried in the centry-garth, who desired to lie near holy St Cuthbert; and among others Mr Racket, who had a fine tomb of white marble, whereon he was pictured in brass, in his coat of armour, and his sword girt about him; and at every corner of the marble was an evangelist in brass.
Mr Elmeden was buried in the said garth, with a fine tomb-stone upon him: And divers others, whose monuments are perished.
The priors buried in the centry-garth had each a tomb-stone, either of marble or free stone, which dean Whittingham caused to be pulled down and taken away; and broke and defaced all such stones as had any pictures of brass, or other imagery work, or chalices wrought upon them; and the rest he took away, and employed them in making a washing-house.
Within the church were two marble holy water stones, bossed with hollow bosses on the outsides, curiously wrought. These were taken away by dean Whittingham, and removed into his kitchen.
In the centry-garth under the south end of the nine altars, betwixt two pillars, was a song-school, erected for teaching six children to sing, who had their meat and drink among the children of the almery, at the expence of the house. The master had his chamber adjoining to the song-school, and his diet in the prior's-hall, among the prior's gentlemen.—Davies, &c.
William, bishop of Durham, before he took down Aldwinus's old fabrick, prepared a beautiful tomb of stone in the cloister-garth, a yard above the ground, where St Cuthbert was deposited, over which was laid a large marble. But when his body was translated to the seretory, made a large and curious marble image, representing St Cuthbert, with beautiful gilding and painting, in the form he was wont to say mass, which was placed upon the tomb-stone as soon as his body was inshrined in the new church, and round the same were set up wooden stanchels, so close that a man could only look through it, to view that exquisite picture. It was covered above with lead, not unlike a chapel. This elegant monument stood opposite to the parlour door, now turned into a store-house, having rooms above where the register-office is kept. Soon after the suppression, dean Horne demolished this fine monument, converting the lead to his own use; the image of St Cuthbert he left perfect. But when dean Whittingham began to govern, he caused this image to be defaced and broken.
The east alley of the cloisters.
Bishops Skirlaw and Langley were the builders of the cloisters. The first gave two hundred pounds in his life-time, and by will four hundred pounds, for that purpose. The second gave two hundred and thirty-eight pounds seventeen shillings and six-pence. These two were at the charge of the building and workmanship, and caused to be painted on the glass in the windows, from the cloister door to the church door, the whole story and miracles of St Cuthbert. In king Edward the Sixth's days, this history was taken down by dean Horne, and broken to pieces.
There was a godly ceremony practised by the prior and monks every Maunday Thursday, viz. the Thursday before Easter. Eighteen aged poor men were appointed to come to the cloister that day, having their feet first clean washed, there to remain till the prior and the convent came, which was about nine o'clock. They sat between the parlour door and the church door, on a long form, and the prior washed the poor men's feet, one after another, and dried them with a towel, and kissed them. When he had done this, he bestowed thirty pence in money, on each of them, and seven red herrings a-piece; and served them with drink, three loaves of bread, and certain wafer cakes.
At going out of the cloisters, through an entry into the deanry, at the top of the stairs, behind the door called the usher-door, on the right-hand, was another going into the register, wherein certain old written books of the records and evidences of the house were laid; as also a copy of the foundation of Greatham hospital, which was also registered in the said book of records. It was the register-house, till Tobias Matthew, dean of Durham, removed it into the parlour before mentioned.
The north alley of the cloisters.
In the north side of the cloisters, from the corner over-against the church door, to the corner opposite to the dormitory door, was all finely glazed; and in every window were three pews or carrels, where every one of the old monks had a carrel to himself, to which, after dinner, they resorted, and there studied till the time of even-song These pews were wainscotted, and very close, except the sore-side, which was carved work, and admitted light; in each was a desk to lay books on, and the carrels were not wider than from one stanchel of the window to another. Opposite to the carrels against the church walls, stood great almeries of wainscot full of books, &c. Davies, &c.
. In the north walk of the cloisters were cases for books for the use of the monks: In the east walk was the old library, now converted into offices for the register, a council chamber, and other conveniencies for the chapter's business: In this walk is the chapter-house, in length seventy-five feet, and thirty-five in breadth, a neat building, in the form of a theatre, vaulted with stone, without any pillars; the side walls are ornamented with pilasters and intersecting arches, like the church: It is lighted by five windows at the semicircular end to the east, two side lights, and one to the west: The groins of the vault spring from corbles supported by human figures, in the manner Atlas is usually represented; the mouldings of the ribs are cut with the zig-zag figure: three rows of stone benches, one above another, run round the building: To the eastward of the center is a stone chair, with much carved work, the bishop's seat in old times when he visited, and wherein the prelates are installed. Adjoining to the chapter-house, on the south, was a prison for offending monks; and at the south end of the cloister there is a passage into the cemetery garth. The building of the chapter-house was originally the work of bishop Rufus, about the year 1136, but it was afterwards vaulted and embellished by succeeding prelates, particularly by bishop Skirlaw, to whom much of the present edifice is ascribed. In this place were interred at the east end, bishop Robt de Insula, and bishop Kellow; further to the west, bishops Rufus, William de Sancta Barbara, and bishop Flambard; near to those bishop Pudsey, and Philip of Poictiers; westward of those, bishops Richard de Marisco, Aldune, Walcher, Turgot the prior, and bishop Stichill; and on each side of the entrance, bishops Walter de Kirkham, and Richard de Farnham: Robert de Graystanes was also interred here. Davies and the old roll place some other bishops in the chapter-house, but are the only authorities we find. The monks were buried in the cemetery-garth, and there stood that venerable monument Ethelwold's stone cross, which was removed from Lindisfarn: Leland saw it there
In repairing the cathedral at Durham, 1779, a stone spout was thrown from the battlements, on the under side of which was the above inscription.—The upper side is hollowed; by being bedded in the lime, the characters have been well preserved.—They agree with the time of St Ethelwold, and encourage the idea that this is the remains of his cross. There has been a raised rib upon the center of the stone, which the workmen had chisselled down.
In the sanctuary or holy church-yard or sanctuarie of Duresme, be very many auncient tumbes, it stondith on the south side of the minster: And at the hedde of one of them is a crosse of a 7 fote longe, that hath had an inscription of diverse rowes yn it, but the scripture cannot be red: Sum say that this crosse was brought out of the holy chirch-yarde of Lindisfarne Ile.
Leland's Itin. vol. i. p. 64, Hearne's edit.
Crux lapidea in coemiterio Dunelmensi, delata erat a Lindisfarn, cum corpore S. Cuthberti, in quo sculptum erat nomen episcopi facientis illam S. Ethelweldi, prius erat fracta a paganis, sed postea a plumbo artificiose partes erant reunitae.
Ex antiquo Codice Dunelmensi.
Fecerat iste de lapide erucem artificis opere expoliri, et in sui memoriam in ea nomen suum exarari. Cujus summitatem multo post tempore dum ipsam eccl. Lindisfarn, Pagani devastarent, fregerunt. Sed postea artificis ingenio reliquae parti infuso plumbo, ipsa fractura est adjuncta: Semperque deinceps cum corpore S. Cutheberti crux ipsa circumferri solebat, et a populo Northanhumbr propter utrumque sanctum in honore haberi, quae etiam usque hodie in Dunelmensis eccl. Coemiterio stans sublimis utrorumque pontificum intuentibus exhibet monumentum.
—
Leland's Coll. vol. i. p. 370.
Mr Pegge is of opinion, that the two upper lines make clearly a Leonine verse, and afford a full sense,
Per crucis hanc formam
Sanctoe
crucis accipe normam.
Certainly, some spondee, as
sanctoe, veroe
or other proper word, is to be supplied to complete the metre.—
Norma crucis
perhaps may mean some particular order of the holy cross, and not our Christian profession in general; since, to judge from the character, which is not Saxon, but of a modern kind, several were probably by this time instituted.
The other two lines formed a verse, no doubt, and a full sense; but the data are not sufficient for one to guess how to fill them up.—See Gough's Sepulchral Monuments. page 48.
: It shared the sacrilegious destruction which deans Horn
And Whitehead turn'd it o'er to Horn,
The archest pastor e'er was born;
A rogue that play'd them more false pranks
Than gypsies could, or mountebanks.
Ward's Reformation, cant. i.
and Whittingham impiously committed on our religious antiquities. The south walk of the cloister has the library, begun by dean Sudbury, on the scite of the old frater-house, and finished by his successor, towards which he charged his executors with a sufficient sum
This fabrick retained the name of the petty commons' hall, till Dr Sudbury erected a beautiful library in its place; but he not living to finish it, did, by the following clause of his last will, bind his heir Sir John Sudbury, to compleat the same.
Item, Whereas I have lately contracted with several workmen for the building of a library in the place commonly called the petty canons' hall, in the college of Durham, for the use of the dean and prebendaries of the said cathedral church. And if it should please God that I do not live to finish the same, my will and pleasure is, that my executor, hereafter named, shall pay out of my personal estate, all such sum or sums of money as shall be necessary for the finishing thereof, according to such form or model, or in such manner as I shall leave directions, under my hand, attested by two or more good and sufficient witnesses.
Dated 11 Jan. 1683.
: It is an elegant room, adorned with some tolerable
portraits of bishops, and stored with an excellent collection of books: Here are deposited many Roman inscriptions, and other remains found in this and the adjoining county of Northumberland. Such as relate to this county will be noted in the sequel, in their due place
Here is deposited a curious copy of Magna Charta, dated the 12th of November, 1216, 1 Henry III.— One of the original copies of Magna Charta which were sent to every county in England, dated the 11th of February, 1224. The great seal very perfect. Also a very curious copy of the Charta de Foresta, dated the 11th of February, 1224. From these judge Blackstone made his collations.
In the class of manuscripts, A. 11. fo. 8. Epistolae 7 canonicae; Job, Proverbia, Ecclesiastes, &c. in initio libri sequntur hae preces, &c. &c. Eo seculo quo codex hic descriptus est, duo reges in Anglia captivi detenti sunt; David Scottorum ab anno 1346, ad annum 1357, et Joannes Gallorum ab anno 1356, ad annum 1360. Videntur hae preces pro rege Scotorum conceptae fuisse et hic codex e monasterio Coldinghamensi (quod caenobij Dunelmensis cella fuit) ut alij plures, traditus fuisse.
The Rev. Mr Rud made a catalogue of the MSS. from A. 1, to B. 11. No 36, and gives as a preface this account of them: "Si aliquot codices minus utiles inter has inveniantur, quod minime mirum videri debet intanto librorum numero, quorum multi iis seculis scripti sunt quibus omnes pene literae crassis ignorantiae tenebris obrutae jacuerunt; multi tamen, sive argumentum, sive antiquitatem, sive scribendi artificium, et elegantiam spectemus▪ eximij plane et quantivis pretij reperientur: Sunt enim in illis qui mille annos superant, et plures patrum Latinorum libri ante annos 600 exarati sunt, Willielmus enim primus episcopus, a Sancto Carilepho dictus, monasticae disciplinae in his regionibus instaurator praecipuus, monachos quos in ecclesiam Dunelmensem primus introduxit, non religionis modo & pietatis, sed doctrinae etiam et eruditionis exercitiis impendere voluit. Ejus igitur jussu et impensa multos bonos libros pulcherrime descripserunt, quorum nomina bibliis quae hinc caenobio dedit praefiguntur, eorum non pauci liviis etiam supersunt ut in hac bibliotheca servantur. Idem et de sequentibus episcopis & prioribus observare liceat."
The finest of all the MSS. is that of the bible, in four volumes folio, having in the front of the first volume written,—Liber Hugonis Dunelm. epi, who was made bishop in the year 1153, and died in 1194, so that this MS. is six hundred years old, which being the gift of Pudsey, may be reckoned for the grandeur and beauty of it amongst his other great works. Mr Rud's description, "Est egregius revera liber Scriptus est si quidem literis majoribus iisq. accurate formatis atramento nitenti in membranis pulcherrimis, capitulorum principia literis pictis exornantur Librorum autem singulorum initia literis maximis variis coloribus et auro depictis illustrantur. Et sane tanta est operis pulchritudo, tantus nitor (nisi nota apposita et ipsa scripturae ratio et forma testaretur librum esse 500 annis vetustiorem) vix videri possit ad 100 annos assurgere. Equidem vix credo pulchriorem S. Bibliorum istam codicem posse in tota Europa inveniri. Illud vero dolendum quod plures ex literis illis pictis et de auratis a sacrilega aliqua manu excissae sunt, et literarum gratia integra aliquando folia (non pauciora etiam quam G. folia) in initiis librorum deesse animadverti. Habet, vol. i. folia 220, secundum 187, tertium 160, quartum 148.
The cutting out of the gilded letters was done by Dr Dobson's lady or maid, who having his key of the library, to go and play with his child in rainy weather, cut out the letters for the child to play with. Randall.
The Rev. John Milner made an alphabetical catalogue of the printed books; and Elias Smith an index, in classical order, of the MSS. He died in 1677.
Among the MSS. is a written copy of bishop Usher's sermon preached at Oxford, 1641. Henry Wilkinson, who it is supposed took down this sermon in short-hand, was head of Magdalen-Hall. Codex 21.
There is a MS. of Cassidorus upon the Psalms, in Saxon characters, with this inscription on the front,— "Cassidorus sup' Psalterium de manu Bedae," written in another hand and letter, not above four hundred years old, which, though of no great authority, shews the tradition of the cloister.
There is a MS. of Bede's five books of history; another of his life; and another of the lives of the abbots of Weremouth and Jarrow, Benedict, Ceolfrede, &c. by Bede, all in the same hand, six hundred years old, and seem to be the same which were given by Carilepho.
In fine totius Codicis (psalmi glossati ib'm) inseruntur exempla duo conventionis factae, A. D. 1204, inter Gul. episc. Stae Andreae in Scotia & priorem & conventum Dunelmensem et eccl'iam de Coldingham super jurisdictione in eccl'ias quasdam ad Coldingham pertinentes de qua contentio inter eos orta fuerat.
A. iii. Fo. Min.
In fine adscribitur sententia ex Leone magno, de supremo judicio; et alia ex Augustini meditationibus, cap. 6, de Xto patientie, cujus partem cum versione vetusta Anglia hic adscribam.
Candet nudatum pectus
rubet cruentum latus,
tensa arent viscera
decora languent lumina
regia pallent ora.
Procera rigent brachia
crura pendent marmorea
rigat terebratos pedes
beati sanguinis unda.
Anglia versio sequitur, quoe tamen paulo laxior est.
Wyth was his nakede brest, and red of blod his syde,
Bleye was his fair handled, his wnd dop & wide,
And his arms ystreich hey up hon he rode,
On fif studes on his body pe stremes ran o blode.
A. iv. Lucas glosatus. 13.
A. iv. 17. 11. Martini epi libellus de 4 virtutibus.
A. iv. 19. 4to. Ecclesiae Dun. lib. pontificalis et ritualis. Multas solemnes precum & rit. formulas complectitur. Ad. annos 900 assurgere videtur.
A. iv. 25. Liber orationum & meditat.
Scriptus est ante annos circiter 300 quos ut linguae nostrae ea aetate specimen, hunc transcripsi.
Myn angel that art to me ysend,
Fro God to be my governour,
Fro all yvil thu me defend,
In every dyssese be my succour.
B. 11.
3. Breve Innocentii 6ti. Johanni de Hilto' domicello (i. e.) baronis de Hilton filio primogenito. Data averrione 16 Kal. Maij 4to anno (A. D. 1356) videtur confessiori ejus permittere ut ei in articulo mortis, sub certis tamen conditionibus plenam peccatorum remissionem concedat.
B. ii. 35. 11. Series chronologica cum brevi hist. ep'orum.
B. iii. 30. Volumen hoc duas habet partes; quaru' prior complectitur collectanea de monachis p' J. Wessington.
B. iv. 18. Alex. iii. Papae bullae 4. Ad Hugonem Pudsey.—
Cum multis aliis.
. The cloister-yard once contained, in a temporary erection, the remains of St Cuthbert, before his last translation into the feretory of the present church: His statue was afterwards erected in the same place. The whole square of the cloister is vaulted underneath, supported on short columns, and totally dark, in its various ailes like a labyrinth, from whence the return is not easily found; a melancholy recess for religious severity, penitence, or punishment! It is formed of excellent mason work, and did it not strike the visitor with horrible ideas of mistaken austerity, is as admirable as many other parts of the sacred edifices. The only entrance is a narrow and low arched way under the library, opening into the deanry kitchen court. Hegge says,
The subterraneous passages under this church (as in other abbies) are manie; but what end these substructions under ground, should have in the makers intent, whether to conceal their treasures in tyme of invasion, or for worse purposes, I cannot determine. One of which cavernes (where sometime stood Ethelwold's crosse) covered with a round stone, leadeth to the castle.
At the south-east corner of the cloister is a passage into the spacious oblong square of prebendal houses, about one hundred and forty paces in length, and ninety in width: It is much broken into by the deanry garden, which spoils its appearance. There is a fountain of water at the upper end, for the supply of all the families, brought in pipes from Elvet-moor, the distance of a mile
Inscription on the fountain in the college.
Hujus nympha loci sacri custodia fontis,
Dormio dum blandae sentio murmur aquae
Parce meum quisquis tangis cava mormora, somnum
Rumpere, sive bibas, sive lavere, tace.
; and also a pump well in the square. The prior's hall in the deanry is not altogether in the ancient state, but yet large enough to receive two hundred persons at supper, on a late entertainment given by the present dean: The ancient south window remains: The gateway into the Bailey-street stands in its original form, built by prior Castel a short time before the dissolution, as before-mentioned
Above this gate was the chapel of St Helen, and the old exchequer where all the rents reserved in the chapter leases are made payable.
Dean Whitehead presented William Watson to it
He was vicar of Bedlington.
Capel. Stae Helenae super magnam portam abbathiae ad sustentationem capellan. praedictae capellae Stae Helenae deservitur, &c. proviso semp. quod in dicta capella Stae Helenae super portam officium peragas sacerdotis & omnia onera dictae capellae incumbentia per te vel per alium, quamdiu ipsam obtines, debite sustincas peragas & supportes.
E. Reg. Whitehead, p. 74.
Joh. Bynchester, 3 Dec. 1409, col. cantariae Stae Helenae supra portam abbathiae.
, in 1541, together with the chapel of St Bartholomew and Leonard, and St Mary Magdalen.
: The kitchen is curious, being of an octagonal form, vaulted, with a cupola light, the chimnies concealed, and in other particulars greatly similar to the abbot's kitchen at Glastonbury.
Adjoining to the college or square is a terrace walk, one hundred and sixty paces long, raised on arches, commanding a pleasant view of the river and its delightful banks: This, like other munificent works of the chapter, is open at all times for the recreation and pleasure of the public.
The Parish of St Mary-le-Bow, or the Great; commonly called the North-Bailey.
Leaving the cathedral church by the north door, you pass to the Place-Green, through a spacious burial ground
On an altar tomb of freestone, in the cathedral church-yard.
If you have any respect for uncommon industry and merit, Regard this place! in which are interr'd the remains Of Mr ROBERT DODSLEY, Who, as an author, rais'd himself much above what cou'd have been expected from one in his rank of life; and without learned education. And who as a man, was scarce Exceeded by any, in integrity of heart, and purity of manners, and conversation. He left this life for a better Septr 23d 1764, in the 61st year of his age
Composed by Jos. Spence, A. M. prebendary of Durham, and professor of modern history in Oxon.
.
On a very large altar tomb of blue marble scarce legible.
Christophorus Mickletonus in villa de Mickleton in agro Eboracensi natus, nuper hospitij Cliffordiensis London, alumnus & attornatus admodum exercitatus, peritus & fidelis hic requiescit in Domino. Obiit 26 die Augusti, Anno D'ni 1669. Aetatis suae 56.
Ac etiam Jacobi Mickleton, Ar. J. C. Filii primogeniti praefat. Christophori ex Prima uxore sua qui obiit 5 die Augusti, Anno D'ni MDCXCIII. Aetatis suae 56
The compiler of many historical notes, preserved by Mr Rud's transcript; and by the bounty of William Rudd,
Esq
interspersed in this work.
.
. and at the west end thereof, facing the church, is the grammar-school and master's house. On the east side of the Place-Green, which is a square of near one hundred paces, are the school-houses, first erected by bishop Langley
Vol. I. p. 332.
, and afterwards restored by bishop Cofin
Ibid. p. 538.
; with an hospital in the center, founded by bishop Langley, and particularly noticed in the sequel. On the opposite side are the sessions-houses, to the building of which bishop Cofin greatly contributed; we are told he gave 1000l. towards public erections, and among them the sessions-house and exchequer are named, which latter contains the hall where the chancery-court is held, and offices for the auditor, cursitor, prothonotary, county-clerk, and register, originally built by bishop Nevill
In bishop Neile's time an order was made for dividing the office of cursitor and register in chancery, and appointing distinct officers therein.
. Before the new sessions-houses were erected, the adjoining building was used for the law courts, under which are stables; the upper chamber is a mean and melancholy place for so important a purpose: The ornaments of the seat of justice were removed from thence in 1649
Sess. 11 July, 1649.
Ordered, that the receivers of the bishop's rents shall forthwith pay over to Mr under sheriff, such monies as shall be requisite for the necessary repairs of the sessions-house; and the same to be allowed in the said receiver's accounts, in regard the bishops formerly did repair the same house.
In plena quarterial. sessione pacis ten't. apud civitat. Dunelm. in com. Dun. pro com. pred. 14 die Jan. A reg. Will'i & Mariae, regis & reginae &c. 2do. A. D. 1690.
It is thought fit, and resolved by the justices in open court, that from henceforth their wages goe and be employed for and towards the procuring a plate or plates to be run for on Durham moor. And that it be recommended to Mr Mayor of Durham, chairman at this sessions, to communicate the same to the bishop of Durham: And that the same continue until further resolution of the majority of justices of the peace of this county. Geo. Morland, mayor, Robt. Eden, Will. Bowes, Ly. Vane, Hen. Liddell, Wm Lambton, Ja. Clavering, Jo. Sedgewick, Rob. Ellison, Rob. Jenison.
Ex original.
18 Apr. 1694. Ordered, that it be referred to Sir Ra. Carr, knight, Lyonel Vane,
Esq
and Wheatley Dobson, mayor of the city of Durham, to settle the horse race for the city of Durham; and the money due to be paid to Mr Mayor. Also ordered, that they fix the time when the plates given by the said justices, shall be run for on High Brasside moor in this county.
3 Apr. 1695. Ordered, that the justices' wages for the future, together with the arrears hitherto due, be applied to such charitable use or uses, as the majority of the said justices shall approve of and think fit.
15 Jan. 1695. Ordered, that the silver mottoth be delivered to John Gordon,
Esq
mayor of the city of Durham, to be by him kept during his mayoralty, and from hence forward to be delivered from mayor to mayor, the said mayor with two aldermen, giving security to the clerk of the peace for the safe keeping thereof.
Ordered, that out of the wages due to the justices of the peace for this county, fifty pounds be paid to Joseph Gedling, fifty shillings to John Middleton,
Esq
and twenty shillings to the clerk of the peace; and that for seven years next ensuing, the said wages be paid to the said Joseph Gedling, and the residue of the said money due to the said justices remain in the hands of Cuth. Hall, gent. till further order.—
From Mr Mann's MSS. penes G. Allan.
The procuring a plate for horse races has been discontinued for some considerable time, and instead thereof the bishop of Durham allows ten pounds at every sessions for the entertainment of the justices at dinner.
. Near to the old sessions-house is the library, founded and stocked with books by bishop Cofin; adjoining is the exchequer, which closes that side of the square up to the gates entering into the outward court of the castle. At the north east corner of the Green, Queen's-street, anciently called Owen or Ounsgate, descends to the north gate, now the gaol; and at the south-east corner Sidgate, vulgarly called Dun Cow-lane, leads to King's-gate, crossing the North-Bailey: On the north side of the square is the castle: There are few distinct remains of the wall which defended this part, between the castle and the church; the name of the broken walls being the chief memorial of that fortification.
The Place-Green, as before noted, we apprehend was the ground where criminals were executed; it being the ancient custom to perform such acts of justice before the walls of castles, and not to carry offenders from their prisons to distant places, or to delay execution after sentence. In the conventions entered into between the bishop and prior in the thirteenth century, and ratified in 1553, are these words
Vel cum aliquis in ead. judicatus fuerit &c. executio judicii fiet. per ballivos pr. libere & sine impedimento ad Placeam, &c.
In other records it is called
Virid. Placea,
or the Green-Place: A grant to William de Orchard, 1365, of a garden,
sup' Placeam
Rot. Hatfield, Sch. 16, No 3.—Sch. 14, No 5, ib'm.—Sch. 4, No 9, ib'm.
: In 1367, a grant of waste ground,
sup' Placeam,
with many more: 1454, to Robert Sotheron,
parte orient. Placei, Dun.
boundering to the south, on a ground called
Coneyor-Garth,
where the mint-master had his tenements
Copyhold books, D. p. 720, Nevil, 1454. Hal. apud. Houghton, vijo Mar. Ao Tr. xvijo. De Rob'to Sotheron, cap. pro una parcella terrae de vastaed'ni jacente ex parte orient.
Placei Dun. et
Man'cois Arch'ni ib'm ex p'te occident. & ex p'te boreali dom. Cant'ie ib'm et ex p'te australi unius ort. vocatr.
Coneyor Garth,
&c.
: In 1395, one Ward took of the lord a house
super Placeam,
within the castle of Durham, called the moneyer's house, together with a chamber on the other side of the gate, called Owenszate, to hold the same until some mint-master should come, who would carry on his business of coining therein
Copyhold books, Ao. primo usq.
17
Skirlaw, p.
152.
Will's Ward venit hic in Cur. & cepit de D'no
unam Dom. sup' placeam in castro Dun. vocat Moneza hous una cul. al. cam'a ultra portam voc. Owaneszate tenend. quousq. aliquis monitarius venerit qui in ead. monetam vac. volu
t.
Ao 1395.
John Killinghall died seised of a new mess. in the Bailey, holden in capite by service of castle ward, finding a bowman to defend the castle of Durham in time of war at King's-gate. Inq. post Mort. Ao Xo . Tho. tent. ap. Dun. 19 Oct. W. Claxton, escaetor.
. We would not have multiplied these proofs, but to deduce from thence the following observations: It has been apprehended that the mintage of our prelates was carried on in some strong place within the gates of the castle; or as others would have it, in Silver-street, from its name; whereas the records prove the mint-master's house was on the Place-Green; which was stiled to be in the castle, as being within the ballium and fortifications thereof.
There were anciently belonging to the monastery two schools, one in the cloister where the novices were taught, in a wainscotted hall opposite to the treasury door. The master was one of the oldest and most learned of the monks, and the students were supplied, upon his report, with necessaries from the chamberlain of the house; for they had no appointed salary. If any of them shewed a particular genius and love of literature, he was sent to Oxford; those of meaner capacities pursued their studies under the discipline of the house, were taught to perform the service of the choir, and in the end admitted to sing mass; at which stage they had twenty shillings a year as wages: They had commons at a table at the east end of the frater-house, and during the mess one of them read a portion of the holy scriptures. Their lodging was at the south end of the dormitory. The other school was in the infirmary out of the abbey gates, where the boys of the almery were taught; they messed after the novices, and had the remains of their table: Their master had ecclesiastical duty, saying mass twice a week at St Mary Magdalen's chapel, near Kepier, once a week at Kimblesworth, and every holiday and Friday in the infirmary chapel, where four women constantly attended, who dwelt in the infirmary, to take care of the sick, and were supplied with provisions from the priors table
Vide auditor's office.
. These appointments, with the rest of the monastic dispositions, were extinguished by the dissolution, and perhaps occasioned the institution of the other schools after the settlement of the chapter. John Newton, master of St Edmond's hospital, in Gateshead, and John Thoralby, rector of Gateshead, and afterwards of Whitburn, clerks, by bishop Langley's licence, dated the 14th of June, 1414, founded two chanteries at the altars of the blessed Virgin and St Cuthbert, in the gallilee, and appointed two chaplains, one of whom was to teach poor boys grammar, and the other singing, in such place as that prelate or his executors should appoint: Their stipend of forty shillings yearly each, issued out of lands in Hardwick, nigh Norton, Ryton, Boldon, Cassop, and Owengate, in the North-Bailey. The boys, it is presumed, from the instrument of confirmation by the prior and convent were to consist of thirty of the monastery almery: The song-master, with some of his scholars, were to come to church on the principal festivals in a surplice, and sing; the others to be present on the like occasions; and no women were to be permitted among them: The chantry clerks were not suffered to lie a night out of their house, without licence of the bishop, or his spiritual chancellor, under the penalty of forfeiting the chantry; neither might they, (with any licence) be absent above forty days
conjunctim aut divisim
in a whole year, and then to have a substitute. They could not be admitted without licence of the bishop, or during the vacancy of the prior and chapter, in which express mention was to be made of their taking the oath of residence. The bishop had power to add to or detract from the articles of foundation, to appoint statutes, or alter and explain them at pleasure
3d Chartulary, p. 284, 285, 286, 287.
.
There appears some confusion touching these chantries; whether only one was founded by Newton and Thoralby, and the other was the act of bishop Langley; for in the nomination of some of the clerks, one of them is called bishop Langley's chantry. Bishop Nevil, in the first year of his episcopacy, granted licence to the executors of bishop Langley, to purchase lands of forty pounds per annum value, for maintenance of these chantry clerks
Vide Rot. Cl. Nevil.
. Mr Thomas Rud, who was master of the chapter school in the church-yard, had much occasion to look into those matters, and was of opinion, that Newton and Thoralby were in fact the original founders, giving stipends of forty shillings each; but that bishop Langley afterwards greatly enlarging the foundation, the chantries took his name
There is a long state of controversy between Mr Rud and Mr Pet. Nelson, in Randal's MSS. and also many letters of bishop Cosin's, on the subject of these schools.
. The bishop's executors purchased the manor of Kaverdley, in Lancashire, out of which they allotted 16l. 13s. 4d. in stipends to two masters
Annual. Red, xvjl. xiijs. iiij. exeun. de Keverdley in comitatu Lancastriae solit Willimo Thewlish magistro libere schole gramatic. ad instruend omnes & omnimodos pueros et ad crudiend. eos in gramatic. & Grec. Et similiter Willimo Cock altero magistro scholarum ibidem ad scribendum & legendum prim. rudiment. gramatic. et ad cantandum usq' tempus, ut apti sint et habiles ad scholam gramaticam. Et ex dicta summa tenentur solvere annuatim pauperibus in elemosina 13s. 4d.
Praedicti magistri tenent unam domum in qua inhabit. cum uno gardino, et non hic onerat.
, and which was reserved to them by the statute thirty-seventh of king Henry VIII. c. 4, and confirmed the first of king Edward VI. by virtue whereof the endowment survived the dissolution of chantries, and the schools were from thenceforth called king Edward's foundation, though he did nothing further relative thereto than save them from the general wreck. After the dissolution, it is to be apprehended, things of this nature remained some time in confusion; two new schools were instituted in the second year of queen Mary, under the protection of the dean and chapter; and the queen appointed stipends to be paid thereto, out of the revenues of the church: And though it doth not appear the dean and chapter had any right to intermeddle with the money issuing out of Kaverdley, in Lancashire, yet certain it is, a custom arose in the beginning of queen Elizabeth's reign, to pay one half of the stipend that belonged to one of bishop Langley's schools, to the master of the new grammar-school, and the same hath been regularly paid by the king's auditor. One reason for this division might be, that from the time of the foundation of the new school, where the Latin tongue was to be taught, that language was disused in the other, and it was appropriated for English rudiments and writing. Bishop Langley's song-school hath long fallen into disuse; the patentee pays no attention to the institution, and it has become a beneficial sinecure to some of the bishop's domestics
Patents. 26 Aug. 1681. Rot. Crew, No. 30. Tho. Barker, Mag. scholae ad erudiend. pueros in plano cantu & arte scribendi.
19 Feb. 1690. Wm Greggs, gent. master.
14 Oct. 1720. Tho. Baty, gent. master. Montague's Reg. p. 19.
9 Sept. 1745. Samuel Davies, a servant to the bishop, master.
22 Mar. 1747. Ra. Hodgson, attorney at law, steward at Auckland castle.—
Randal's MSS.
.
King Henry VIII. appointed commissioners to set out dwelling-houses for the master and usher of the new grammar-school; and those, with bishop Langley's school-houses, in times of public calamity and confusion, were suffered to fall into decay; or, as others say, were destroyed by the Scotch in 1640: After the Restoration, the dean and chapter rebuilt their school-house; and as was observed before, bishop Cosin rebuilt bishop Langley's houses, or made new ones adjoining to the hospital, which he founded on the Place-Green: Unwilling to arrogate to himself even the appearance of having founded those schools, or to lead posterity into any error touching them, over the doors of the wings or school-houses
Patents. 26 Aug. 1681. Rot. Crew, No. 30. Tho. Barker, Mag. scholae ad erudiend. pueros in plano cantu & arte scribendi.
19 Feb. 1690. Wm Greggs, gent. master.
14 Oct. 1720. Tho. Baty, gent. master. Montague's Reg. p. 19.
9 Sept. 1745. Samuel Davies, a servant to the bishop, master.
22 Mar. 1747. Ra. Hodgson, attorney at law, steward at Auckland castle.—
Randal's MSS.
he placed bishop Langley's arms, and over the center door his own.
Inscriptions under bishop Langley's arms.
Schola pro plano cantu & arte scribendi
Schola pro addiscendis rudim. literarum.
Under the arms of the See, with bishop Cosin's arms impaled over the center door.
Hospitale Ep'i Dunelm. pro viii. pauperibus, fundat. per Joh. Episcop. A. D. MDCLXVI
Vide foundation and statutes of the cathedral church for the masters' stipend, &c. in the new grammar-school, page 135.
Masters since the Restoration.
1666. Thomas Battersby
Thomas Barkas
1690. Tho. Rud, A. B.
1699. Nich. Burton, A. M.
1609. John Rymer
On an altar tombstone in the cathedral church-yard.
Here lyeth the body of John Rymer, A. M. who was head master of the grammar-school twenty-one-years, and lecturer of the parish of St Nicholas eleven years. He departed this life Feb. 13, 1732, aged 49 years.
1732. Rich. Dongworth, A. M.
On another altar stone there.
Near to this place lyeth the body of the Rev. Richard Dongworth, A. M. master of the grammar-school, and vicar of Billingham. He departed this life Feb. 23, Anno 1761, aged 58.
1761. Tho. Randal, A. B.
To the indefatigable labours of this gentleman we are indebted for all the valuable records that enrich these volumes; and who, by will, dated the 20th of December, 1774, gave them and all his other manuscripts relating to the antiquities of Durham and Northumberland, to his friend Mr Geo. Allan, of Darlington, in whose possession they now remain.
1768. Jon. Branfoot, A. M.
178
. J. Bretton, A. M.
Sub-masters.
Sam. Martin
John Nichols
Wm Greggs
Wm Hanby
Nich. Fewster
Peter Nelson
Wm Randolph
Wm Randolph
Rob. Simon
Tho. Randal
No sub-master
Vacant
Vacant.
Ep'at Dunelm. et ab. In computo receptor. general. ib'd de anno finito ad festum Sti. Michaelis archangeli ano. reg. D'nae nup' reg. Eliz. iiijo. int. al continetur & sequitur viz. Stipendia Ludimag'rorum.
Terr. et possession. pertin. maner. de Kaverdley, in co. Lancast. parcell. possessionum nup' monasterij de Jarvalij. Et in annual. salar. sive stipend Tho. Reve & Joh'is Person scole mag'ror scole gramatic. sundat. p' nup' Cantaristis Beatae Virginis & S'ti. Cuthb'ti in eccl'ia cath. Dunelm. ad xvjl. p' an. & xiijs. iiijd. p' an distribuend per praedict. Thomam Reve & Johannem Person. ejusd. fundationis dictae Cantar. annuatim sol'. ad term. Sci. Michaelis archangeli & pasche equaliter viz. in allocatione hujusmodi stipendiorum p'tempus hujus computi virtute decreti sive warranti D'ni thesaurarij Angliae signat. & auditor. direct. prout consimilis allocatio facta suit in diversis computis diversorum annorum praecedentium.—xvjl. xiijs. iiijd.
E. scaccario regio.
The Bishop's Alms-House, and Schools on the Green.
Bishop Cosin's deed of foundation of the alms-houses on the Place-Green, and re-establishment of the schools there, is to the following effect:
"John, by God's grace and permission, bishop of Durham: To all the faithful sons of Christ and holy mother church, that may see or hear these present letters, or this public instrument, health and blessing. For as much, as among other works of piety and exercises of Christian religion, which appertain to the office of a bishop, we were diligently to provide and take care, that our episcopal castles, and in them especially our chapels, and some other places and buildings adjoining, destined for public uses, (all which indeed we found almost quite destroyed either by the violence of the times, or the neglect and malice of men) might be duly repaired as soon as possible, and where necessary rebuilt. Know ye, therefore, that we have not only repaired, and brought into better form, in every part, our foresaid episcopal castles, and the sacred chapels therein, at our own proper charges, but also have built anew two school-houses, anciently erected by the appointment of the most reverend prelate and lord, lord Thomas Langley, our predecessor, on the bishop's palace-green, in Durham, on the east side of the said green; (lately almost fallen and left waste by the violence of the times and neglect of men) the one of which schools was designed for instructing boys in the rudiments of learning, unto the Latin and Greek grammar; and the other to instruct boys in the art of writing and plain songs; with a stipend of 8l. 6s. 8d. annexed, for the master of each school, to be paid yearly by the king's officers; and with a pension in like manner of forty shillings, to be paid by the officers of us and our successors, viz. our auditor and receiver, yearly to the same master; which we have thought good, as much as in us lies, should be ratified and confirmed. Know ye, furthermore, that we the bishop aforesaid, have built and placed between the same schools, another building or alms-house, containing in it eight chambers for the entertainment and dwelling of so many poor people, viz. four men and four women. And now for the due maintenance and support of the same poor men and women, and the repairs of the houses aforesaid, when such shall be needful, we make known unto all, that by this our charter, we give and grant an annuity of seventy pounds, to issue out of the manor or lands of Great-Chilton, in the county of Durham, lately bought with our own proper monies, to be distributed among the same poor men and women, and duly to be paid yearly, at four quarters of the year, according to an indenture made between us on the one part, and the honourable Charles lord Gerard, baron of Brandon, together with Sir Henage Finch, knight and baronet, the king's solicitor, Sir Gilbert Gerard, knight and baronet, our high-sheriff in the county palatine of Durham, Sir Nicholas Cole, of Kepier, in the county of Durham, knight and baronet, and George Davenport, clerk, rector of Houghton-le-Spring, in the county of Durham aforesaid, our trustees on the other part; and bearing date the 12th day of August present, as it may appear more fully by the said indenture. Therefore we will and ordain by this our charter, that the aforesaid sum of seventy pounds, for the maintenance and support of eight poor people, living in our hospital or alms-house aforesaid, and for the repairs thereof, be distributed and paid yearly in this manner as followeth. First of all, shall be paid to each of the eight poor people aforesaid, by the bishop's auditor and receiver, the yearly pension of 6l. 13s. 4d. at four feasts of the year, specified in the aforesaid indenture, by equal portions: Secondly, that to each of the said poor people be given yearly, by the said auditor and receiver, at the feast of St Bartholomew, 15s. for buying coals or fuel, and repairing their chamber windows, as oft as need shall require: Thirdly, that the sum of 5l. every year be retained in the hands of the said auditor and receiver of the bishop of Durham for the time being, for buying gowns (called liveries) for the said poor men and women, every third year: Fourthly, that the sum of 20s. in like manner be placed in the hands of the said auditor and receiver, for repairing the said houses when it may be needful: Fifthly, that the sum of 4l. in like manner, be paid duly at the feasts aforesaid, by equal portions, unto some honest woman, to be named by us and our successors, bishops of Durham, that may daily attend upon the aforesaid poor people, in their sickness and other necessity: Lastly, that the aforesaid auditor and receiver reserve in their hands yearly 13s. 4d. to purchase gloves, as a token for their attention and care. Furthermore, we will and ordain, that all such poor people, being bachelors or widowers and widows, be of honest repute and good conversation, and sixty, or at least fifty years of age; whereof three men and so many women shall be natives, or at least inhabitants of Durham, by the space of twenty years: But the other two, that is, one man and one woman, shall be chosen out of the village or parish of Brancepeth: The cure of which church we anciently had; to be nominated by us during our life, but after our death by our beloved daughters the lady Mary Gerard, the lady Elizabeth Burton, Mrs Frances Gerard, alias Blakeston, and Mrs Anne Greenvile, in their turns after the order of their ages, and by the longer livers and longer liver of them: And after the death of them all, by our successors, the bishops of Durham in a full See; but by the dean and chapter of our cathedral church of Durham, in a vacancy, from time to time as often as any place of the said poor men and women shall happen to be void, for ever. And that this pious and charitable intention of ours may take better effect, we have chosen, named, assigned, and constituted, and by these presents for us and our successors, do choose, name, assign, and constitute our beloved in Christ, William Unthanke, William Widdrington, Robert Blunt, and Charles Calvert, and our beloved Grace Hutchinson, Jane Cummin, Eleanor Pearson, and Mary Atkinson, to be the first poor men and women of the same hospital or alms-house, there to remain to be maintained and relieved during their natural lives; unless in the meanwhile they be removed, or that it shall happen that any one of them be removed thence for some reasonable cause, by us and our successors. We will also, and ordain, that all such poor people, and their successors, shall reside and lodge in their own chambers. Furthermore, we appoint that the poor men and women shall duely say not only the private prayers assigned to them, by us, in their own chambers; but also frequent the prayers morning and evening, in the choir of our cathedral church in Durham, unless they be detained at home by some real sickness: That they all go to church, two by two, both men and women, in their gowns, modestly, decently, and in order: That they shall sit next after the king's beadsmen, sounded in the same cathedral church; and there demean themselves humbly and devoutly. Lastly, we will and constitute, that all such poor people be subject as well to the ordinary jurisdiction of us and our successors, as to all decrees, commands, and statutes, duely and lawfully to be established and ordained by us and our successors, bishops of Durham. And we do hereby declare, as well the said schools, restored and built by us, as also our new and peculiar foundation of the said alms-house, shall be established for ever. We put up our most humble thanks to the Omnipotent and Gracious Divinity, who hath vouchsafed to grant unto us, whilst we sojourn in this mortal life, and look for his blessed eternity in Heaven, ability to provide for, and perfect these our works of piety and charity, which we trust will be acceptable to him. In testimony, &c. we have caused these our letters to be made patent, and thereto have put our seals, both episcopal and palatine. Witness, Sir Francis Goodrick, knight, our temporal chancellor. Given at our castle at Durham, on the thirty-first of August, in the year of the reign of our sovereign lord Charles the Second, by the grace of God, king of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, defender of the faith, the twentieth, and of our consecration the eighth, and in the year of Christ 1668."
Bishop Cosin's library
Foundation charter, dated 20th Sep. 1669. Rudd's MSS. vol. i p. 538.
is mentioned in his will to this effect,
That a great number of his books valued at above one thousand pounds he had given to the public library of St Peter's College, in Cambridge; the rest of his books, according to a catalogue signed by him, he, by a special deed, gave to a public use in a new library that he had built upon the Palace-Green in Durham, for the common benefit of the clergy and others that should resort thereto, the whole collection having cost him near three thousand pounds, and the care of near fifty-five years together.
He, by deed, dated the 20th of September, 1669, granted a stipend for a librarian, with ordinances therein touching his office
There are several old portraits of the prelates in this place but ill kept. The books which had remained for several years in confusion, have lately been arranged after the order of the old catalogue, by Mr Robert Harrison, of Durham. Bishop Trevor gave several books thereto. Over the door are the arms of the See, impaling those of Cosin, and underneath the following inscription:
BIBLIOTHEC. JOH. DUNELM.
Non minima pars eruditionis est bonos nosse libros.
.
In the exchequer
THE COUNTY COURT.
The sheriff is judge of the county court, and all proceedings there are before him; and yet the office of county clerk hath, time out of mind, been granted by the bishop by patent for life, and such patentee issues all processes, and all pleadings are in his office, and he receives to his own use all the profits thereof. And where the debts and damages are above 13s. 4d. the process is capias I observe in some reasons offered against taking away the county palatine, it is mentioned, that in 1665, there was some attempt to discourage the practice of arresting by capias; and that the grand jury made a representation in writing to the judges at the assizes, of the great conveniencies arising to the county by it, and that the same was also signed by the mayor and aldermen, and the attornies, and publicly read at the assizes; and that the said custom of issuing capias was approved and allowed by the judges. And in 1666, at the assizes of Durham, one
Potter
being in gaol upon a capias, issued out of the county court, moved by Mr Stot, for a habeas corpus to bring the defendant to the bar; and the sheriff in his return set forth the custom of arresting by capias, and the defendant was brought to the bar, and the matter argued by councel; the councel for the defendant at the bar agreed the custom was good and the defendant was remanded. There was also a writ of false judgment brought by
Dale
at suit of
Hall,
and the awarding of a capias was assigned for error. Sir T. Tursden, upon hearing councel on both sides, took time to consider of the error, and afterwards declared, he had consulted with his brethren, the judges, at Westminster, who were of opinion, that the custom being in the county palatine by prescription might be good, and gave orders for affirming the judgment. In the year 1668, three writs of false judgment were brought by
Nicholson
against
Huntley,
and the awarding the capias again assigned for error; after argument before baron Rainsford, he was attended again at Newcastle, and appointed the same to be further argued at his chambers in Serjeant's Inn, when he said he had consulted his brethren, who were of opinion the custom was good, and affirmed the judgment; and ordered Mr Cooke, the associate, to draw a special rule, and set out the custom, which was done.
In the auditor's office is the petition, called a representation of the grand jury, dated the 20th of April, 1664.
Rudd's MSS.
The office or place of county clerk hath, time out of mind, been disappendant as to the high sheriff's office, who has never received any profit of the said court, though he hath always exercised and enjoyed the office of judge of and within that court; and that all pleadings within that court have been held before the sheriff, and not otherwise. The said court hath, time out of mind, had the lawful and unquestioned jurisdiction, in all cases therein to award a capias upon a justicies, directed to the sheriff, and no other person whatever, which is done at a small charge. Carthew, 207. Comb. 260.
The court commonly called the county court, in fact is a court holden before the sheriff of the county, and so it is stiled in writs of false judgment; which distinguishes this court from all other county courts properly so called, and of which the suitors are judges, and they are said to be holden
coram sectatoribus.
See I. Mod. rep. anonym. case, p. 172.
Though it be said commonly, that the suitors are judges, yet by prescription the sheriff may be judge.— There is a court called the court of the county in the county palatine of Durham, and the sheriff is judge; and though in the county court the suitors are judges, yet by prescription it may be held before the sheriff.
2 and 3 Edw. VI. c. 25. Mod. rep. 72.
are deposited the bishop's evidences, of which archbishop Sancroft, a prebendary in the ninth stall of our cathedral, obtained lists or schedules, which have lately been published from the Clarendon Press in Oxford, with other miscellaneous tracts, entitled
Collectanea Curiosa.
They might not be esteemed of sufficient importance to take up so many pages in this work as their insertion would necessarily require, therefore we must refer the reader to that publication, No x. vol. ii. p. 93, &c.
The traveller approaching
THE CASTLE
De constabular. castri epor. Dunelm.
Castrum Dunelm. conditum suit p. reg. W. Conq. eodem temp. quo reversus suerat de Scotia in Dunelm. ubi se cum suis epis tute ab incursantibus habere potuisset.—Dicitur in lib. Rub. 47. quod Robertus fil. Will'i Conq. castrum p'd construxit.—Sede vac. Claves castri p'd soluti suer. sup' S'cti Cuthb'ti tumulum suspenderi.—
Mickleton's MSS.
enters by the gateway built by bishop Tunstall.
Before we proceed in the description of the present edifice, it is necessary to make some few observations on the form and construction of fortresses of the like date. We remarked, that it was probable there was a place of strength and defence on the castle hill, before the Conqueror, returning from his Scotch expedition, thought it expedient in this province, which was so necessary and natural a barrier against the more northern powers, to erect a castle
Vide note vol. i. p. 113.
. The castle upon Tyne was a work of near the same period of time
Hoc anno Gul. rex misit Robertum silium suum contra Malcolinum regem qui cum pervenisset ad Eglesbreth nullo consecto negotio, castellum novum super slu. sini condidit.—
Le
. Col. vol. ii. p. 384.
, but the form of that edifice in no wise corresponds with any part of the fortress now under consideration, and indeed it is difficult to determine what part of the present castle owes its origin to William the Conqueror. Towers of an octagonal form, we conceive, were not uncommon with the Normans; yet we do not apprehend the present tower was of Norman architecture: The lofty mount most probably attracted the founder's attention: But we have met with very little evidence to support such a position. The ingenious Mr Grose says
Vol. i. Antiq. of England and Wales, 2d edit. p. 7.
In Leland's Itinerary we have the following description.
The close itself of the minstre on the highest part of the hill is welle wauled, and hath diverse fair gates. The chirch itself, and the cloister be very strong and fair; and at the veryest end of the chirch is a crosse isle byside the middle crosse isle the minster chirch. The castelle stondith stately on the north est side of the minstre, and Were rennith under it. The kepe stondith aloft and is stately buildid of viij square fascion and 4 highes of logginges.
"Bishop Fox did much reparation of this dungeon; and he made beside in the castelle a new kychen with "the offices and many praty chaumbers.
"Tunstall hath also done cost on the dungeon and other places of the castel; and hath buildid a goodly "new galery and a stately stair to it, and made an exceeding strong gate of iron to the castelle.
"In that part of Duresme toun that is almost inclosed with were be 3 paroch chirches and a chapell; S. "Oswaldes is counted to be auncient. There be a three paroche chirches mo in the suburbe.
"The greatest suburbe is by Elvet bridg, and hath certen smaul streates.
The suburbe over Framagate bridge hath 3 partes; the south streate on the lift hand, the crosse streate on the middle toward Akeland, and the 3 on the right hand bering the name of Framagat, and leding to Chester and to Newcastelle.
"The building of Duresme toun is meately strong, but it is nother high nor of costely werke.
There appere sum peaces of waules of the town joining to a gate of the palace waul. But the town itself, withyn the peninsula, is but a smaul thing in respect of cumpace of all the stately close; so that it alo
ly may be caulled the waullid tonne of Duresme.
—
Lel. Itin. vol. i. fo. 81.
Camd. Brit. Lat. edit. 1594. Gibson's edition in Eng. 950.
,
The materials of which castles were built, varied, according to the places of their erection; but the manner of their construction seems to have been pretty uniform. The outsides of the walls were generally built with the stones nearest at hand, laid as regularly as their shapes would admit; the insides were filled with the like materials, mixed with a great quantity of fluid mortar, which was called by the workmen grout-work: A very ancient method of building used by the Romans, and quoted by Palladio, and all the writers on architecture. The angles were always coigned, and the arches turned with squared stone, brought from Caen, in Normandy, with which the whole outside was now and then eased. Sometimes instead of stone the insides of the walls were formed with squared chalk, as is the castle of Guildford. When the Normans found the ruins of an ancient building on the scite of their intended structure, they either endeavoured to incorporate it into their work, or made use of the materials; as may be seen by many buildings of known Norman construction, wherein are fragments of Saxon architecture, or large quantities of Roman bricks, which has caused them often to be mistaken for Roman or Saxon edifices. The general shape or plan of these castles depended entirely on the caprice of the architects, or the form of the ground intended to be occupied; neither do they seem to have confined themselves to any particular figure in their towers, square, round, and poligonal, oftentimes occuring in the original parts of the same building. The situations commonly chosen were steep rocks, cliffs, eminences, or the banks of rivers.
To this observation we must add, that the fortifications on the ground now under consideration, occupied or enclosed the whole summit of the hill; the outward wall running along the very brink of the eminence, and forming an oval figure; at the northern extremity of which the castle stands, on the neck of land, where the ground descends swiftly to the lower town, called the borough; the river runs almost round the whole walled or fortified eminence, except at that part where Claypath or Cluerport gate stands; at which point, the eastern or western channels drawing nearest together, give the walled or fortified part of the town the figure of a horse shoe, so that the river to those fortifications served in lieu of a moat: The natural ascent from the river to the foot of some parts of the city wall, is upwards of eighty perpendicular feet.
In towns (Mr Grose says, p. 9) the appellation of
ballium
was given to any work fenced with palisades, and some times masonry, covering the suburbs; but in castles was the space immediately within the outer wall. When there was a double enceinte of walls, the areas next each wall were stiled the outer and inner ballia. The manner in which these are mentioned in the siege of Bedford castle, sufficiently justify this position:
The castle was taken by four assaults; in the first was taken the barbican, in the second the outer ballia, at the third attack the wall by the old tower was thrown down by the miners, where, with great danger they possessed themselves of the inner ballia, through a chink; at the fourth assault the miners set fire to the tower, so that the smoke burst out, and the tower itself was cloven to that degree, as to shew visibly some broad chinks, whereupon the enemy surrendered.
— This receives further confirmation from the enumeration of the lands belonging to Colchester castle, wherein are specified "the upper bailey, in which the castle stands, and the nether bailey, &c." The wall of the ballium in castles was commonly high, flanked with towers, and had a parapet, embattled, crenellated, or garretted for the mounting of it. There were flights of steps at convenient distances; and the parapet often had the merlons pierced with long chinks, ending in round holes, called oillets.
Whether, at Durham, there was an inner and outer ballium, is uncertain; the two streets now called the Baileys, are sometimes distinguished by the names of the high and low Bailey, and north and south Bailey, and prompt an idea, that such might be the original form of the fortification; but when the present cathedral church was built, the distinction and interior wall perhaps was removed, as no remains thereof now appear.
Within the ballium were lodgings or barracks, for those whose service it was to defend the castle personally, either as principals or substitutes; so in the Baileys the houses were anciently held in capite by the service of castle ward, and many chief personages had tenements therein for greater security in times of public danger
The families of Alenshelys, and de Le Ley. Inq. p. m. Ao. 6. Burg. co.
de Menvill, vic. The family of Wittonstalls, who were inveniend. D'mn Jordanum de Darden knt. p' se & suis Cameram & Stabulum sufficient. t'pe Guerre And the said Jordan held all the tenements aforesaid of the lord bishop of Durham, in capite, viz. in Baroniam sicut cet. de Ballio. Inq. p. m. Ao. 4o . Hatfield cor. W. de Mordon, vic. 1348.
John Lam. The lord John Conyers. The lord Thomas Gray. Inq. p. m. Ao. 5. Hatfield, ib'm vic.
Wm de le Ley. Inq. p. m. Ao. 19. Hatfield cor. Tho. de le Reyner esc.
Tho. Hunter, and Margaret his wife, heiress of Alenshelys. Inq. p. m. Ao. xo . Skirlaw. R. de Laton esc.
Killinghall. Inq. p. m Ao. xo . Langley cor. Claxton esc.
Hadham. Inq. p. m. Ao. 15. Langley, &c.
Ralph earl of Westm. two mess. in Owensgate, (by castle ward) infra cast Dun. Inq. p. m. Ao xxo . Langley▪
: Besides the cathedral church and monastery, there were included in the ballium, two parish churches, St Mary the Great or Le-Bow, and St Mary the Less.—
The entrance into the ballium was commonly through a strong machicolated and embattled gate, between two towers, secured by a herse or portcullis; over this gate were rooms originally intended for the porter of the castle: The towers served for the corps de garde. On an eminence, in the center commonly, though not always, stood the keep or dungeon, sometimes, as in the siege of Bedford castle, emphatically called the tower; it was the citadel or last retreat of the garrison, often surrounded by a ditch, with a draw bridge and machicolated gate, and occasionally with an outer wall, garnished with small towers: In large castles it was generally a high square tower, of four or five stories, having turrets at each angle; in these turrets were the staircases, and frequently as in Dover and Rochester castles, a well. If instead of a square, the keep or dungeon happened to be round, it was called a juliet, from a vulgar opinion that large round towers were built by Julius Caesar
Grose's Antiq. vol. i. 2d edition, p. 11.
.
We find mention made of five gates to the ballium: The great north gate, which flanked the keep to the east, and filled up the space between it and the wall, which led down into the borough: This was of the greatest strength, as it commanded the most important and least guarded approach: When it was rebuilt by bishop Langley, he thought it necessary to make it as strong as the art of fortification could then render it, not only as a defence to the fortress and monastery, but as a prison for criminals and captives, without lodging them in the cells and vaults of the great tower; to those ends he constructed the gateway
Janitores Portae inferioris castri Epor Dun.
Temp. Bury. Feod. 1l. 10s.—Booth. 1d. p' diem.
De custodib's Gardini ep'i castri Dun.
Pro vita temp. Laur. Ep.
Ballivi Sc'cii & Nuncio Epi Dun.
J. Robinson Ball. & Nuncio Epi, &c. cum feod 40s. (James) feod 50s. (Morton)
Janitores exterioris Januae seu Portae castri Epi Dun. & custodes goalae castri Dun. & goaletores seu custodes goale Dunelm.
Pro vita cum feod. 100l. & Roba.
Langley Ep, edisicavit novam januam & gaolam juxta castrum Dun.—
Mickleton's MSS.
, with double gates towards the Bailey, an outward gate towards the city, with a portcullis, an open wall or recess between the gates, with salliports and upper galleries for the annoyance of assailants who might force the first gate. What the ancient gateway and tower were, we are ignorant; but it seems that keeping it was a post of honour, sought after by persons of the first distinction in antiquity for heroism and family. By the record presented to the reader, it appears that the lord Thomas Gray, in bishop Hatfield's time, was possessed of the lodge or chamber in the tower, and the gate is described as leading
ad hospicium Duresmi,
to
the Durham inn,
a place, by the application, apparently of as much note in 1353, as the north gate of the ballium
From the copyhold books, Ao. 4o usq. 17. Hatfield Epi. p. 79.
Pl. Halmot ap Cestre die Lune ant. fest. S. Petri, Ao. p. 8o .
D'ns Tho. Gray, chev. sinivit hic in cur. p' una Camera hen'd sup' portam que ducit ad hospicium Duresmi q'd dicitur Turri
sup' portam borealem sub tali conditione q'd d'cus Epus heat introitum & exitum p' predict. portam que ducit ad Turrim & manuteneat & sustentet d'cam portam sumptibus suis et pred. Thom. manuteneat Cameram super aedificatam sumptibus suis p'priis & reddit p' pred. Camera ad se'em predicti D'ni Epi p' ann. tota vita pred. D'ni Tho. iiijd. & dat &c.—
Randal's MSS.
. The ancient gate was strengthened with a salliport or postern gate, not now known, and a round tower at the end of the moat, which is still in being; it is
o described in bishop Skirlaw's time
Copyhold books, Skirlaw, B. p. 465, and p. 431. Sub mota castri.
Joh. Hyndley, ven. cor. sen. & cep. de D'no unam peciam terre de vast d'ni extra port. boreal Dun. jac. ex p'te australi die. port. int. le postern ibid'm & quandam Turrim rotund. scituat. in humo castri, &c.
E. Copyhold book, marked C. on the back, p. 1140.
15 Mar. 1420. Halm. apud Esyngton xv'o Martii Ao. p. Tho. (Langley) xiiij. Isabell que f. ux. Rob. Femothir v. in cur. et cep. de d'no quand. plac. terr. vast. jacen. ex p'te australi cujusd. porte voc. Kyngeszate in ballio boriali Dun. &c.—
Randal's MSS.
.
The second gate was called King's gate, now totally removed, which commanded the ford over the river into Elvet
Vide note to p. 138, where King's-gate is described, as it lieth down by the North Bailey church-yard, to the postern there.
: The third gate was called Owen gate, where Queen-street now is; but it is apprehended this was an inner gate, and led into the Placea or Place-Green: The fourth gate was called Sidgate, now Duncow-lane: The fifth gate, called the Water gate, was anciently stiled
La Porte du Bayle
Vide convention in the time of Anthony Beke, notes vol. i. p. 697.
, or the Bailey gate, and was the gate of the outward ballium, if the fortifications had that distinction, commanding another fording place over the river. This gate stood, till late years, in its ancient form. Bishop Nevil, in the twelfth year of his episcopacy, (1449) granted to Robert Rodes and his heirs, liberty to annex this gate to his mansion-house, with the power of closing and opening the same at pleasure
Quandam porticulam in muro exteriori castri n'ri in ballio australi ad aisament. ip'ius Rob'ti, &c. Et concess
eid. Rob'to Rodes heredibus et assignatis suis lib'es exitum & introitum, &c. una cum licentia ap'iend. & claudend. eand'm porticulam ad eor. lib'tum et voluntatem, &c proviso in omnib's sumptib's suis p'priis & expensis sufficient. reparent. &c. —
Cursitor's Rolls. Nevil. Rud's MSS.
: This grant was an open violation of the articles of convention before stated, by which all the bishop's liege people were decreed to have the privilege of passing that way to and from the shrine of St Cuthbert, except in time of war, when the exigencies of state required the gate to be closed for security of the city; the gate was constantly closed at night by the owner of the adjacent tenement, and no carriages were at any time suffered to pass that way; until the Rev. Henry Egerton, one of the present prebendaries of Durham, having purchased the adjacent grounds, widened the street, and promoted the building of a spacious arch, of Roman architecture, without gates, in the place of the old gateway: This would have proved little more than an ornament to the city, had not the dean and chapter, with a munificence which distinguishes that worshipful body in all their public works, laid it open for the use of gentlemen's families; whose carriages only are permitted to pass along the elegant new bridge, lately erected by them: A bounty reserved to this age.
At this gate the ancient wall of the ballium appears, stretching along the brink of the hill towards the church of St Mary-le-Bow, where King's-gate anciently stood. The wall is defended at intervals with square projecting turrets or bastions; but few of them retain so much of their original figure as to furnish a probable conjecture touching their strength, when in a perfect state: The wall shews evident marks of a parapet and breast wall or embrazure.
In the first volume, page 113, we offered some conjectures relative to the castle: It is pretty well established that William the Conqueror ordered a fortress to be erected here; and it is probable, the works which then defended the mount, attracted the attention of the Norman; whether those works merited the name of a castle is not easy to determine, or what they really were; though from the mode of the Saxons, we may presume they consisted of breast works or circumvallations, of which the present terraces may be some remains. Huntingdon's language, touching the sovereigns erecting a castle here
de Novo,
prompts an idea, that some considerable edifice stood on this ground before the Norman times
The reader is desired to correct an error in p. 113, touching the castle, and read
encourages
for
discourages,
ase the following
and.
.
About the year 1177, the castle of Durham consisted chiefly of a tower; in the note referred to
Rex (Hen. II.) tradidit Gul. de Neville castellum de Norham, & Gaufrido de Neville castel de Berewie, & Rogero de Coniers turrim de Dunelmo, qua' rex ab Hugoe E'po Dun. abstulit quoniam sicte ei servierat in Guerra sua. Et ideo dedit ei epus duo M. Mercaru'. argenti p' suo amore habenda, & ut castella sua starent. Et ut rex Henrico de Puteaco filio suo daret manerium regium de Wic'thtun cum pertinenciis suis.
Lel. Col. vol. i. p. 134.
, it is only called
Turrim de Dunelm,
and also in bishop Hatfield's time in the preceding note, relative to the north gate, in which it is described as leading to the tower; and indeed many judicious persons, with great probability, have conjectured, the original fortress was no more than a tower, and was afterwards strengthened with a ballium on the side opposite to Framwellgate bridge, garnished with bastions and square towers; where the wall was built on the edge of rocks rising almost perpendicular from the river: On this side several ancient towers yet remain, of little use to the present mansion
These towers have loop-holes for the discharge of darts from engines.
. When Framwellgate bridge was built by bishop Flambard, in the opening of the twelfth century, he carried on a strong wall between the castle and the church; and it is probable he built the last mentioned towers to command the pass: The bridge had also a strong gateway and tower: Building this bridge necessarily occasioned a passage to be made from thence into the borough; and on that account, bishop Flambard strengthened that side of the castle, between the bridge and the north gate before spoken of, with a moat; which, from the example before given, was undoubtedly fortified with round towers or bastions.
The method of attack and defence of fortified places practised by our ancestors before, and even some time after the invention of gunpowder, was much after the manner of the Romans; most of the same machines being made use of, though some of them under different names: They had their engines for throwing stones and darts of different weights and sizes: For approaching the walls they had moveable towers
Grose's Antiq. vol. i. 2d ed. p. 14 and 17.
.
So that the more lofty the fortification, consequently it was more difficult of assault by the machines used in sieges. "Of the vast force" of the engines,
surprising stories are related; no wall, however thick, was able to resist their stroke; and in the field they swept away the deepest files of armed men; with them were thrown not only large milstones, but sometimes the carcases of dead horses, and even living men
The former, according to Froissart, was practised by John duke of Normandy, son of king Philip de Valois, when he besieged the count of Hainhault, in Thyn-Levêque, in the Low Countries, and whom he thereby obliged to capitulate, on account of the infection caused in the town; and, as Camden says, it was also done by the Turks in Negroponte. The other, namely throwing a living man, is also mentioned by Froissart. It happened at the siege of Auberoche, in Gascoigne, where the English being closely pressed by the count de Laisle, lieutenant-general to Philip de Valois, they sent out an esquire with a letter, which he was to endeavour to deliver to the earl of Derby, their general, but being taken, his letter was read, and afterwards tied round his ne
, and he being put into an engine, was thrown back into the castle, where he fell dead among his companions. Moveable towers are repeatedly mentioned as much in use, particularly by the English. Froissart is very circumstantial in his account of one used at the siege of R
ole, by the earl of Derby; who, having laid before that place nine weeks, caused two towers, three sto
es
gh, to be built with large beams: Each tower was placed on four small wheels or trucks, and towards the town covered with boiled leather, to guard it from
ire, and to resist the darts: On every story were placed 100 archers. These towers were pushed by the force of men to the city wall, the ditch having been
led up whilst they were building: From these the soldiers placed in the different stages made such
us discharges, that none of the garison, except such as were well armed, or covered with large
, to shew themselves on the rampart.
—
Grose, vol. i. p. 18, 2d edit.
.
Many of the keeps or dungeons, in the ancient castles, are placed in the same situation of the ballium, as the castle of Durham, as Connisborough castle, Tickhill, Portchester, Cambridge, Oxford, Tunbridge, and several others. The mount on which Durham tower stands is near forty-four perpendicular feet in height, from the level of the Place-Green, to the foot of the building, and it appears to have been forced from the level; to the above eminence add the natural height of the whole hill from the level of the river, and it will be upwards of one hundred and thirty perpendicular feet. It is the opinion of a skilful architect
Mr Geo. Nicholson, who is director of the repairs now making at the cathedral.
, that the foundation of this tower goes down to the rock; and by the falling in of some arches, we discover that the whole erection is vaulted underneath; but as those vaults, from their apparent depth, do not occupy above a fourth part of the height of the mount, we are left to conjecture in what manner the rest of the eminence was forced or supported: It is apprehended, that after the Norman tower was built, the mount did not remain cut out into terraces agreeable to the present form, but that the sides were regularly sloped from the building to the plain, to render it as difficult to be climbed as possible, forming a regular glacis or talus round the tower; and that the approach to the gate of the tower was by a long slight of steps, from the inner court, so narrow that two persons only could pass at a time; and so open on each side that an assailant opposed might be tumbled headlong to the bottom. Mr King, describing Coningsborough castle in the 6th volume of the Archaeologia, says,
The first thing that strikes the eye is a very remarkable sloping part of the foundation walls, rising to a great height like a mount, and having in many parts, in consequence of its being covered with earth and moss, the appearance of a small hill exactly of the same dimensions as the castle itself; the bottom of this sloping part appears almost circular, but higher up are seen more fully, six vast projecting buttresses, ascending in a still more steep direction, to prop and support the building. Immediately above this sloping part the tower rises perpendicularly to a great height: Its inside forms a compleat circle; but on the outside appear six additional square turrets, which are, however, merely the continuation upwards of the buttresses just mentioned.
Before the present terraces of our tower were formed, perhaps the ribs of the foundation appeared supporting the buttresses of each angle; and by such a base, mining, which was much practised in antiquity, would be impeded or rendered impracticable: The tower of Coningsborough castle forms an hexagon; Durham tower an ill-formed octagon of irregular sides; some of the fronts exceeding others in breadth several feet; the angles are supported by buttresses, and a parapet has run round the summit of the whole building, with a breast wall and embrazure: The diameter of this tower in the widest part is sixty-three feet six inches, and in the narrowest sixty-one feet: It has contained four stories or tiers of apartments, exclusive of the vaults: The great entrance is on the west side: There is nothing now left of this edifice but the mount, vaults, and outside shell; which latter, from its noble appearance, and the great ornament it is to the city, has been an object of attention of many of the prelates.— Chambrè tells us bishop Hatfield built a tower to the castle;
In castello Dunelm. aedificiae quae antiquitate & vetustate consumpta et debilitata fuerant, renovavit; & autam episcopalem & aulam constabulari cum aliis aedificiis in eodem de novo construxit. Urbem Dun. licet hanc natura & muri satis munierunt, turre tamen fortiori sumptibus suis in castello constructa, ipse reddidit fortiorem.
Indeed from the whole mode of architecture, the roses which ornament the summits of the buttresses, and the form of the windows, we are led to conceive that the present shell was the work of bishop Hatfield, and repaired and kept standing by his successors
On the east side of the tower, under the arms of lord Crew.
H
C DIU RUTTURI CASTELLI LATERA CU'. VETUSTATE TANDEM UTRINQ. EXESA NEC NON COLLAPSA DE NOVO NUPERRIME EXTRUXIT AC CITO CITIUS FIRMIORA OREXIT NATU. D'XUS CREWE, DUNELM. EP'US ET BARO DE STANE COM. NORTHAM. ANNIS CON
ECR. 4
, TRANSL. 40, SALUTIS 1714.
. The tower was only lined round the outward wall with apartments, so as to leave an inner area or wall from top to bottom, by which the engines of war, and necessaries in time of danger and attack, were drawn up and distributed to the several parts of the building: Those apartments have been approached by five different staircases or turnpikes in the angles, the remains of which are yet visible, so that the parapet could be mounted, the galleries lined with armed men, and the apartments guarded in a very short time, and equally as quick the garrison could descend, and be ready for a sally. At present the mount, as we observed before, is formed into terraces, as well for ornament as recreation: The uppermost terrace is ten feet wide, and laid with gravel, commanding a prospect not only of the whole city and its beautiful environs, but also an extensive view of the country as far as Gateshead-fell, Penshaw, Newbottle, Warden Law, and Quarrington, with the nearer objects, Newton-hall, Pittington, Sherburn, Aykley-heads, and other places of note: Between this and the lower terrace is a grass slope, supported by a breast wall, and you descend by twenty-three steps; the second terrace is of equal breadth with the other, and laid with gravel, and is in like manner separated from the lowest terrace by a grass slope and breast wall, to which you descend by twenty-one steps; this terrace is of like width and form as the others, and is twenty-two steps above the level of the garden below.
Bishop Pudsey, who acceded to the bishopric in 1153, restored some part of the castle, which had suffered by fire. To this prelate we are induced to attribute the building of the first hall to the palace; but with other parts of the castle going to decay, the present hall, with the constable's-hall, were afterwards erected by bishop Hatfield: This prelate's works were magnificent; an improved taste prevailed in his time, and much ornament was introduced in buildings of this kind: The hall erected by him, we are told, was near one hundred and twenty yards in length, of a proportionable height and width, and lighted on every side; the roof of wood was ornamented in every rafter, and other decorations were given to this spacious room. It is described as having two princely
eats, one at each end: There were pulpits or galleries on each side, wherein the trumpeters or wind music used to stand to play while meat was ushered in
Vide vol. i. p. 375, also note.
. On the day bishop Bury was enthroned, A. D. 1333, he entertained in the hall the king and queen of England, the queen dowager of England, the king of Scotland, the two Metropolitans, and five other bishops, seven earls, with their ladies, all the nobility north of Trent, with a vast concourse of knights, esquires, and other people of distinction, among whom were many abbots, priors, and other religious
Johannes 'othe Orcheyerd held in cap. two mess. in
ramw
ate, by the service of three
of court, and 2d. rent at the borough of Durham: And also a garden by the service
Inveniendi olera po
& al. herbas p' potagio & c
quina'. D'ni Ep. p' oib's adventib's suis ad castru. Dun. & constab. qui p' t' o
u'it potros olera & herbas p'
oquina sua oi'bs dieb's anni. Et p'd Joh. vel. her suis debet p'
'e de D'no. Ep. ipso cum familia sua exist ap. D. cotidie duos albos panes, duas legenas c'visie & duo fere
cum uno garmamento q'd voc'r bed
an. Et eod. modo debet p'cip'e de constab. castri qui p' t p'e
u'rit p'vi
dies principales Anni rem. ut sa.
Inq. p. m. xo Ao. Bury
p.
or. W. de Mandevil, vi
.
. Bishop Fox found it too expensive to keep this spacious hall in repair, or it was too large for his necessary purposes, and therefore he reduced it considerably; he took away the seat at the south end, and converted that part into a kitchen and steward's apartments, so that it was lessened at least one-third of its original size; yet there remained room enough for the entertainment of the princess Margaret, and her attendants, in her way to Scotland; on that occasion, we read, that all the nobility and people of distinction of the northern parts, as well spirituals as temporals, were present, and the services consisted of that gorgeous display of provisions, called by the writers of that time
double dinners.
This prelate began to repair the great tower, and built a hall, kitchen, and some other apartments therein, but before his plan was far advanced, he was translated, and no further progress was made in that work: We see his arms in the partition wall of the great hall. Bishop Tunstall made great repairs to the castle, he built the present gateway and tower, and flanked it with a strong wall on either hand: He brought water to the palace in pipes, it being supplied before by wells and reservoirs; he erected the present gallery, and made a new approach to the apartments there; he also built a beautiful little chapel, which has received improvements from succeeding prelates, as the arms of Cosin and Talbot placed therein denote. We should not omit to remark in this place, that on the facing of the entrance into the stalls, at the west end, is a striking mark of Wolsey's arrogance; on the oak are carved the cardinal's arms, taking the dexter side against the arms of his principality and See of Durham. Bishop Barnes and Neile made great repairs: The latter enlarged the windows, and thereby gave the apartments a new degree of elegance.
The great tower became an object of incumbrance soon after the Reformation; and at length, in bishop Morton's time, it was one of those erections for which the bishops were decreed to be discharged from future dilapidations, so that nothing but the love of ornament, and the solemn grace it added to the aspect of the castle in particular, and to this beautiful city in general, has since that period for a century and a half saved it from utter demolition and ruin.
Bishop Morton had the honour of a royal visit at his castle of Durham, and then displayed the ancient hospitality and magnificence of the prelates of this See; he entertained king Charles I. and all his retinue in the hall of this palace, when he made his tour into Scotland, expending, as it is said, no less a sum than fifteen hundred pounds a day on the occasion. Bishop Cosin, whose memory is dear to those that venerate the ancient seats of our prelates, put the castle of Durham into repair, made a new entrance into the hall, renewed the fountain, added many apartments, and gave much ornament to the exterior parts; he again reduced the hall, by taking off an audience room at the north end, at the foot of the great staircase; and put a screen of wainscot at the south end, to conceal the passages to the kitchen and offices; he also wainscotted the hall round about. In its present state the hall is one hundred and eighty feet in length, thirty-six feet in width, and about fifty feet in height to the rafters; is lighted by three large windows to the west, and two to the east. Since bishop Cosin's time, succeeding prelates have made improvements, which, as well as the work of more remote ages, are distinguished by the arms placed on various parts of the building. Bishop Trevor did a great deal, particularly to the north front, which opens upon a terrace eighty paces long above the moat, terminated by the round tower before spoken of: He improved many of the apartments by putting in chimney-pieces of stone-work, highly wrought in the Gothic stile, and well adapted to the figure of the rooms, making very large sash windows in the same order, and stuccoing the walls and ceilings, in which work he employed the ablest masters
We have not been able to collect from the records before us what number or complement of men formed the military establishment of this castle. The Inquisitions Post Mortem, which specify the ward service in the bailies, might be brought into one view; but the calculation to be drawn from thence would not be conclusive, as those provided but a small portion of the armed men liable to be brought to that duty; therefore it would prove a useless labour. Under the succession of bishops we have shewn who were governors of the castle; and the other officers whose names appear in the patents and appointments, are placed under every prelate; to repeat them in this place would be superfluous.
.
The church of Saint Mary-le-Bow is said to stand upon the ground where St Cuthbert's remains were first lodged, in a tabernacle of boughs and wands, before a proper receptacle was formed, within the limits of the present cathedral: It is within the deanry of Easington, and under the patronage of the archdeacon of Northumberland
1664. By an act passed in the 16th and 17th of king Charles II. for granting a royal aid, and by another (1665) act passed in the 17th of king Charles II. certain sums were ordered to be levied in England: In pursuance of which laws, commissioners made out a table or book of rates.
Easington ward book of rates.
Durham. North-Bailey parish, estimated value 2780l. 15s.—
Grey's MSS.
This parish pays to the land tax when 4s. p' pound as rated and divided in 1765, 197l. 9s. 6d.
N. B. The tables thus subscribed by Mr Mann:
These sheets contain accounts of the rates in the county of Durham, and may be properly called the book of rates, for the county rates were collected in the proportions therein set forth, during all the time that I was county treasurer, and I believe they are still collected in the same proportions. J. M. 7 Sept. 1771.
—
Penes G. Allan.
Bishops' rents, Durham mills, 8l. 6s. 8d.—Dean and Chapter's rents, 7l. 14s. 8d.
N. B. It was thought more expedient to divide these matters parochialy, than to throw them into an appendix, as promised in the first volume.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population in this parish from 1660 to 1679
64
7
27
1760 to 1779
140
104
141
Increase
76
93
114
Burials in the last year three.
It being found throughout the county that thirty to one is the general mortality number, the number of inhabitants in this parish is therefore computed to be ninety.
.
In the beginning of the last century this church became very ruinous, and on the 10th of December, 1637, the following agreement was entered into, and written in the parish register:
The Bow church at Durham was agreed to be pulled down, being very ruinous, and to be rebuilt by the parishioners; Mr John Heath giving that piece of ground which is now the church-yard, and there was gathered by way of contribution, towards the rebuilding of the said church, 117l. 14s
Signed Wm Smith, curate.
Tho. Burwell, 20l.
John Heath, the ch.-yard and 5l.
Henry Smith, 20l.
Mary Smith, 10l.
Cuth. Sisson, 6l. 13s. 4d.
Ja. Hilton, 6l. 13s. 4d.
Moses Skepper, 6l. 13s. 4d.
Jo. Richardson, 3l. 6s. 8d.
Jn Heath, Jn Richardson, church-wardens, with several parishioners.
The subscribers names with the sums.
Geo. Kirkby, 3l.
Rob. Cooper, 10s.
Jo. Heath, 3l. 6s. 8d.
Rob. Clark, 1l.
Lancel. Hilton, 1l. 10s.
Rich. Belt, 1l. 10s.
Hen. Briggs, 10s.
Jn Peacock, 2l.
Thomas Harrison, 1l.
Willfray Lamb, 1l.
Jn Richardson, 10l.
Jn Stevenson, 3l. 6s. 8d.
Rich. Mathew, 5l.
Ja. Watson, 3l.
Chr. Mickleton, 1l.
. Concluded and agreed upon by the minister, church-wardens, and others the parishioners, that the church being partly fallen down, and the residue that stands being so decayed and rotten, that it cannot long continue without imminent danger, shall be pulled down and re-edified, and that sufficient cessments shall be laid on to that purpose
In 1685, it was new stalled by agreement of the parishioners.
.
The rector's income was anciently very trivial, as it arose by fluctuating circumstances
1720. Aug. 31. v. also Ecton, second edit. p. 178.
A full account of the clear yearly value of St Mary-le-Bow, as it was then given in to the commissioners upon oath.
Tho. Cradick's legacy
T. Cradock,
Esq
commissary of the archdeaconry of Richmond, gave it by will, dated the 5th of February, 1689:
Fees due for burying, &c.
 
s.
d.
 
s.
d.
Church-yard
1
1
 
3
0
Body of the church
6
8
 
6
0
To the minister.
Choir or chancel
13
4
To the clerk.
7
0
Within the altar rails
16
8
 
8
0
Mortuary
10
0
 
0
0
Churching
1
1
 
0
6
Banns
3
0
 
1
6
Marriage by licence
5
0
 
2
6
Easter due 2d. per head.—1d. reek.
 
 
 
 
 
Randal's MSS.
precarious, 10l. per ann.—Easter reckonings computed at 2l.—Surplice fees computed at 1l. 10s.—Chater's close in Sheraton, 1l. 10s.
Signed Sam. Clark, Will. Suddick.
; but by virtue of lord Crewe's will, ten pounds a year was annexed to it for ever
This augmentation was ordered by the trustees, the 4th of March, 1723.
Prope castrum epi & cath. eccl'iam Dun. sunt duae stratae voc. boreale et. australe Ballivum, quae sunt duae legales paroch. In ballio boreali sunt King-street & Owengate. Set omnes domus seu major pars earundem fuer. antiquitus tent. de ep's Dunelm. in capite p' castri sui pred. Wardam; p' tenuras seu servitia inveniendi sagittarios ad defendend. Castrum temp. Guerrae seu, 6s. 8d. in pecun. quidam per servicia custodiendi Janua'. borealem castri temp. Guerrae cum ep'i Janitore.—Quidem p' servicia & sect. ad cur. castri & inveniendi olera & herbas ad ep'i Culinam, in cast. pred.—
Mickleton's MSS.
The archdeacon's inn, leased to Mr Spearman, 1725, sit. in the North-Bailey.
.
It appears that those direful years of anarchy and confusion, which soon after succeeded the date of the above resolution, prevented the repairs proceeding; for it was not till the year 1685, the new church was opened for divine service; and in a note of Randal's, it is said,
This was done least the Papists should get possession of this empty church by some grant from the crown.
In the year 1722, the living was augmented by queen Anne's bounty, and subscriptions to the amount of 170l. were obtained for that purpose
The names of those that contributed towards the augmentation of St Mary-le-Bow, A. D. 1722.
Tho. Wilkinson,
Esq
20l.
John Rudd,
Esq
20l.
John Fawcet,
Esq
10l.
Jos. Hall,
Esq
10l.
David Hilton,
Esq
10l.
Mr Stonhewer, 10l.
Rev. Mr Stonhewer, 5l.
Mr Stonhewer, jun. 5l.
Mr Tho. Bowlby, 5l.
Mr Geo. Dixon, 5l.
Tho. Rudd,
Esq
5l.
Mr John Mowbray, 5l.
Geo. Bowes,
Esq
5l.
Mr Garth, 5l.
Dr Morton, archdeacon of North. commutation-money, 50l.
Tho. Boothe, of Duresme, by will, dated the 20th of September, 1563, bequeathed to the prisoners xvjs viijd.—To the poor folkes in the parish where he dwelt, (N. Bailey) xiij s.—To the Bowe church his best surplice.—To the Bowe church vj s. viij d. to be for the repairing the same. His sister Margaret ladie Constable executrix.—E. Lib. Testamentor. p. 102.
Charities given to this parish.
Barnabas Hutchinson, by his will, dated xj. Dec. 1633, gave 20s. yearly to the poor people of the North and South Bailey, to be paid at the feasts of Mich. and Easter; and he charged his house wherein he then dwelt, to pay the same for ever; 13s. 4d. to North, and 6s 8d. to South Bailey.
N. B. Mr Johnson's house in Queen-street is charged with the above payments.
5 Mar. 1687. Mrs Mary Kirkby, relict and executrix of Geo. Kirkby, paid to the church-wardens 10l. left by him to the poor of this parish.
28 Mar. 1654. Received of Mr J. Heath, of Old Durham, (left by Mr Wm Garrison xl.) for use for a year and a quarter, ending at Martinmas last, due to the poor of this parish, 20 s.
Aug. 7. Rec. a half a year's rents of the burgages beneath the goal gates, ending at May day last, 1l. 3s.
From the church-wardens books.
Extract of the will of John Spearman.
I give
to the rector and church-wardens of the Bow church aforesaid, 20l. upon trust and confidence, nevertheless to be preserved and kept intire, as towards a stock, and the principal to be put out at interest, &c. in the names of the minister and church-wardens, and their successors, &c. the interest to be applied for the teaching or instructing of one or more poor boy or boys of that parish by birth, &c. in reading, writing, arithmetic, and navigation, to fit them for the sea or manual trades.
Sheraton close devised on confidence, that the rector shall perform divine service to the prisoners, &c. especially to prepare and assist poor criminals under sentence.
E. ch.-ward. books.
1689. Two silver plates given by Mr Kirkby, precentor at the cathedral.
1702. The steeple was built by the parish cess.
1703. The silver flaggon given by Mr Spearman, under-sheriff, and Sheraton close.
1705. The altar rails given by the Rev. Mr Nich. Burton.
1707. The skreen by G. Newhouse, registrary.—Legacy of 10l. and subscription.
1723. The church augmented by subscription.
— Bishop Crewe's legacy of 10l. per annum.
1731. The chancel wainscotted by Tho. Wilkinson,
Esq
barrister at law.
1734. The larger silver flaggon by Mrs Mary Wilkinson.
— The carpet given by William Randolph, rector.
1741. The gallery built in May.
1750. The scarlet cushions and pulpit cloth, &c. by Mrs Randolph, the rector's sister.
1741. The vestry built.
1759. The new bell.
Randal's MSS.
.
This church is built of hewn stone, in a very neat stile, uniform, and without ailes, and is well lighted. The entrance from the street is at the west end, under the tower; the ceiling is flat, unsupported by pillars, and is stuccoed in squares: It is regularly pewed, and wainscotted round, with a gallery at the west end
St Mary the Great,—Rectory.
King's Book, 5l.— Tenths, 10s.—Proc. Ep. 2l. Real value 60l. 70l.
King's Book, 5l.— Tenths, 10s.—Proc. Ep. 2l. Lord Crew 10l. 70l.
This living is discharged from the payment of first-fruits and tenths, the certified value of it being 15l. whereof 10l. is precarious.
Rectors.
Thomas, 1241.— Radulphus, 1300.—Henricus, 1314.—Will. de Gawns, 1322.—Hen. de Donyngton, 1338.— Adam de Tanfield, 1349.—Joh. de Wycliffe, 1354.—Joh. de Brogham, 1369.— Reginald de Coventre, 1377.—Rob. de Herlesey, 1386.— Geo. Derwentwater, 1410.— Joh. Burgham, 1433. Rob. Hawthorne, 1440.—Wil. Bower, 1458.— D'nus Ed. Chesemans cap. pr. ven. vir. mag'r Rad. Scrope archd. N.—D'nus Tho. Dawson, cap. inst. 4 Nov. 1497, p' res. Cheseman.— D'nus Geo. Batis, cap. 1520.— D'nus Ric. Spence, cap. inst. 5 Feb. 1535, p' res. Batis, p' Rob. Davell, LL. D. archd. N.—Joh. Welche, cap. 8 Nov. 1544, p. m. Spence.—Wil. Bayles,
By will, dated 12 Jan. 1562, bequeaths to Rich. Johnson his bowe and his quiver.—N. B. The church-wardens of Northe Bailysse owe him for his wages there xxvjs. viijd.
cl. 1562.—Joh. Knightley, oc. 5 Feb. 1577,
Extr. from visit. book of bishop Barnes.
.—Rectoria vacat. 22 Jul. 1578.— Joh. Stewenson, diaconus oc. 11 Jan. 1578.—Joh. Mathews, diac. oc. 13 Jul. 1579.— Ch. Wright, oc. 20 Jan. 1585
These four last ministers are only called curates in the visit. book, having never been canonically instituted.
.—John Todd, 1605.—Wil. Smith, 1630
Rich. Wakelin, clerk, officiated here in 1646 as appears from the parish register. The church was then in a very ruinets state, and so continued without any settled minister, till repaired in 1685.
.—Anth. Kirton, A. M. 1687.— Ch. Neile, A. M. 20 Dec. 1689.—Math. Owen, cl. 23 Jul. 1694.—Joh. Hartis, A. M. 16 Apr. 1695.—Fran. Clement. A. B. 9 Jul. 1700.— Rich. Burton, A. M. 1703
He was the son of John Burton, D. D. archdeacon of Cleveland, and residentiary of York; was a student of Christ-church, Oxon, and master of arts the 19th of May, 1698; appointed upper-master of Durham school, 1699; rector of this church, 1703, which he quitted in 1705; in 1709, also quitted the mastership of the school:—He published several small works, as sermons, Novus epigrammatum dilectus ex M. Val. Martiale in usum schole. Dun. 1704, dedicated to dean Montague, a bool. of rhetoric, &c. Was somewhat disordered in mind before his death, which happened in June, 1713; and was interred within the altar rails of this church.
.—Wm Randolph, A. B. 1705, p. k. Geo. I. by lapse
Son of a clergyman beneficed in Wales; was of Christ-church, Oxon, where he took a bachelor of arts degree; became under-master of Durham school about 1699; rector of this church, 1705: Being appointed a minor canon, he quitted the school; and dying in 1749, was buried within the altar rails of this church.
Randal's MSS.
.—Thomas Drake, A. B. inst. 11 Jan. 1750, p. m. Randolph, pr. Tho. Sharp, D. D. archd. North.
.
The Parish of St Mary the Less, in the South Bailey.
This church is but a mean edifice, considering its antiquity, and that it is situated within the walls of the ancient city: It is in the deanry of Easington. The advowson being part of the possessions of the earl of Westmoreland, on his attainder came to the crown
Certified val. 3l. 9s. 4d. out of which is paid 6s. 8d.—Dean and Chap. pay 1l.—Proc. Ep. 3s.
Rectors.
Ricardus, 1300.—Adam de Tanfield, 1354.—Pet. Postell, 1357.—Ric'us de Castro Bernardi, 1359.—Ric'us Damusell, 1366.—Rob. de Messyngham, 1371.—Adam de Seggefield, 1377.—W. de Cottingham, 1386.—Ric'us Bourn, 1414.—Galfrid de Langton, 1415, Joh. Bewmarres, 1440.—Edw. Cheeseman, cap. 1470.—Tho. Dawson, cap. 1497.—Joh. Hackeforth, cap. —.—Geo. Rippon, cap. 29 Jul. 1531, pr. Rob. vir. dn's Rad. Com. Westmerland.— Joh. Hamsterley, cap. 1 Nov. 1537, p' M. Rippon. p. id. Ra. E. Westm.— John Baxter, clerk.—Will. Lee, verba Dei minister, 26 Feb. 1572, p. m. Baxter, p. Eliz. reg. Angl.—
[After Lee we do not find any institution to this church, but the same seems ever since to have been held by sequestration till
1742,
or rather the profits were so small, that whoever had the key of the church left him by his predecessor, became minister without any let or hindrance.]
—From an old visitation of bishop Barnes, Joh. Knightley, oc. 3 Feb. 1577.— Rectoria vacat. 22 Jul. 1578.—Tho. Little, oc. 29 Jan. 1578.—Joh. Wilkinson, oc. 7 Feb. 1582.—Tho. Little, oc. 18 Jan. 1583.—Geo. Cocknedge, oc. 13 Dec. 1633.—From the churchwardens books. Mathew Cooper, cl. 1663.—Hen. Smyth, oc. 1675.—Jno. Thoresby, oc. 1696.—Abraham Yapp, oc. 1698.— Fra. Clement, oc. 1700.— John Teasdale, A. M. 1705.—Rob. Leake, oc. 1712.—Joh. Waring, A. M.
Vicar of Billingham, precentor of the cathedral, was of St John's College, Cambridge, and nominated to the curacy of Croxdale in 1714.
1721.— Joh. Branfoot, A. M. 1732, p. m. Waring
Pres. to Bossal, the 11th of May, 1742.
There was a chantry in this church dedicated to St Catharine, val. 5l. 7s. 9d.
Lacentia Joh'i Belasys p' Cantaria fundanda.—
Rot. B. Langley, No. 35.
.—Abraham Gregory, A. M. 28 Aug. 1742, p. k. Geo. II.—Tho. Leighton, A. B. 23 Aug. 1755, p. res. Gregory, k. Geo. II.
An annual pension of 40s. was paid to the rector of the church of the South Bailey, by ancient custom, out of the rents of the lands of Crook and Billyraw, formerly part of the possessions of Charles earl of Westmoreland, attainted of treason.
This was extracted out of the survey of all the honours, &c. belonging to Charles earl of Westmoreland, &c. made the 10th of June, by Edm. Hall and Wm Humberston, gent. by virtue of queen Elizabeth's commission dated the 18th of March, 1569. 12 Eliz. to them and Sir Tho. Gargrave, knight, Rich. Ashton and Joh. Jenkins,
Esq
directed.
Ex. Rec. in Offic. Rem. Reg.
Ra. E. of Westm. ob. s. in D'nco suo ut de feod. de advocatione eccl'ce Be. M. Virg. in ballio australi Dun. infra castr. pr'dum. Inq. p. m. xx. Langley.
Easington Ward book of rates.
Durham. South Bailey parish, estimated value 1750l. In this the dean and chapter's out-rents, and the patent and other fees and stipends of the several officers of the bishop and dean and chapter are included.
Grey's MSS.
 
£.
s.
d.
Land tax at 4s.
4
10
8
The college
82
18
5
Dean and chapter's rents
7
14
8
County rate at 6 s. 8d.
 
3
4
Mann's MSS.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population in this parish from 1660 to 1679 inclusive
28
29
23
1760 to 1779
28
69
38
Increase
0
40
15
Burials in the last year four.—Computed number of inhabitants 120.
.
The two Bailies are inhabited by people of the first fortune; the houses on the east side of the street command a beautiful view of the river, and the romantic scenes on its borders; on the west side the tenements receive some equivalent for their loss of prospect, by having an easy passage to the Place-green, Cathedral, College, and Castle.
The Parish of St Nicholas, in Durham.
From the Gaol-gates to the Market-place, you pass down Sadler-street, having Elvet-bridge on the right-hand. This street, or some considerable part of it, was anciently called the Fleshewer-raw, and is still occupied by butchers. We are led to lament that want of police in the city which should correct the brutal spectacle of slaughtering animals in the street; shocking to travellers, who instantly turn aside with disgust, and pass to other places, not only with prejudice of mind against the whole place, but with censures on its inhabitants: They look back on the magnificent buildings, and whilst they recollect the royal rights of the powerful prelate, the learned body of men who sit in the chapter-house, the re-infranchised body corporate of the city, and the opulent and polite inhabitants in general, they exclaim,
In this seat of learning, the episcopal capital, and center of the provincial law, hitherto common decency has not drawn a skreen before the execution of the slaughtering knife that serves their luxury.
Elvet bridge was built by bishop Pudsey, who also restored the borough of Elvet, after the destruction made by Cumin's followers.
As Framwel-gate bridge, built by bishop Flambard, was called the Old bridge, so Elvet bridge, built by Hugh Pusar, or Pudsey, was called the New bridge. There were on it formerly two chapels, one dedicated to St James, built by Lewinus Burgensis in the reign of king Henry III. and since converted to a prison for the house of correction: The other, dedicated to St Andrew
This chapel was built upon two pillars nearer Elvet, and is at present a blacksmith's shop, but a charity school is kept in the chancel, the old walls still remaining.
Randal's MSS.
, founded by William, son of Absolam, Robert de Insula, bishop, Edw. I. king
Extract from the Dean and Chapter's books.—
Randal's MSS.
.
In bishop Fox's time this bridge was become ruinous, whereupon he granted an indulgence to those who should contribute to its repairs
Indulgentia concess. conseret. ad constructionem pont. de Elvete.—
Reg. Fox, p. 5.
Ric'us, &c. qui ad sustentac'om. construcc. om. & rep'acom. pont. de Elvete in civitate n'ra Dunolm. &c. quadraginta dies indulgencie concedimus. p' p'sentes, &c. Dat. in manerio n'ro de Aukeland epi xxiij die mensis Maij Ao D'ni 1595. Et n're trans. Ao primo.
. It has several land arches, constructed for the purpose of bringing up a gradual ascent from Elvet to Sadler-street, and we observe it became a custom so early as bishop Skirlaw's time, to grant out those arches for store-houses and other purposes
From the copyhold books, Ao 1. usq. 17 Skirlaw, p. 108.
1393. Pl. Halm. ap. Esyngton die ven'is post fest. trans. Sci Thome Ao p. quinto Tho Rotier capel custos Cantarie S. Jacobi sup' novum pontem in Dun. cepit de D'no vasta subter ij arches ejusd. pont. ad sinem capellae.
By virtue of a commission of charitable uses, dated the 26th of July, 1683. The inquisitors int. al's returned,
That certain lands, lying in Pelawe Leases, Backhouse Leases, and Broad Close and other lands and grounds called by the said names, or other names, in the parish of St Giles, and which are now of the value of 8l. p' ann. excepting taxes, out rents, and assessments, were anciently given for the repairing of the pavement of the two bridges in Durham, commonly called Elvet bridge, and Framwelgate bridge; but by whom such charitable gift was made, the said jurors do not know, the same being very ancient, and as appears to the jurors to be given for the uses aforesaid time beyond memory.
In witness, &c. Dated the 13th of June, 1684. Signed N. Duresme —Jo. Hutchinson, major. — Miles Stapylton, and ten others.
Commissio ad inquirend. de reddit. ad rep'co'em pontis Dun. & Shincliff, concess. Rot. B. Hatfield, sch. 1. No 4.
Tho. &c. dilc'is & sid. suis Joh'i Mowbray, &c. cum pont. Dunelm. & Shincliff adeo dirutus sint & amfractis q'd maximu. p'ie'lm ho'ium p'tin. illar. & aliar. per eund. pont. transcuntium, & jam intellexerimus q'd nonnulli certi redditus div'sor. ten. ad sustentaco'em & reparacoem pont. pred'ci ab antiquo concessor. subtrahuntur, &c. Assignavimus, &c. ad inquirend, &c. & quiten. unde redd. ille pervenit. tenent. &c.
N. B. No return appears upon the record.
."
The Market-place is a spacious square, well built; at the
oot of which stands the church of St Nicholas, occupying almost the whole of that side: Sadler-street enters the square at the south-east corner, Silver-street at the south-west, Claypethgate is situate at the north-east corner, and a flight of steps leading by the New-place to the factory-house, on the north-west: These are the stairs by which the archbishop of York escaped the fury of the mob, when he came to Durham to exercise his pretended jurisdiction during the vacancy of the See, after the demise of bishop Robert de Insula
Vide vol. i. p. 228.
.
In this square is a fluent fountain of excellent water, which supplies the greatest part of the town: The reservoir is built up in an elegant form, and ornamented with a fine statue of Neptune. In the year 1450, Tho. Billingham,
esq
granted
Mann's MSS. dat. Dunelm. ultimo die Maij, An. 1450.—Confirmatio cartae Tho. Billingham, de aquedactu pro Le Paunt in foro Dun. Rot. M Nevil, No 85.
to the city for ever, a spring of water in his manor of Sidgate, with liberty to convey the same by pipes, &c. to a reservoir in the Market-place for the public use, at thirteen-pence a year rent, payable at the feast of St Martin; and in default for forty days, the grantor and his assigns have power to break up the aqueduct head, and divert the stream into its ancient course: With a prohibitory clause against any person's making an aqueduct from the fountain, except the grantor and his heirs, to whom power was reserved to lay a string pipe from the reservoir to supply his own house in the Market-place. This grant was afterwards confirmed by the bishop, who granted liberty to break his soil for the aqueducts
Some disputes lately arose, and it was questioned, whether the above privilege of a string pipe survived to
the owner of the house,
on which several learned counsel gave opinions clearly in his favour.—We believe this house now belongs to Sir Wm Appleby, knight.
.
There stood near the fountain a large market cross, which incumbered the square very much: It was lately taken down, and a handsome piazza built at the foot of the Market-place, to answer the same purposes
To the honour of Almightie God, ornament of the city of Duresme and commoditie of the people si
quenting the market of Duresme, the market cross now there extant was framed with twelve stone pillars, and covered with lead, att the sole charges and expences of one Thomas Emerson, of the Blacke Fryers, in London, Esquier, in the yr of our Lord, 1617.
Mann's MSS.
.
On the west side of the square is the Town-hall, with commodious apartments for public festivals and other uses, lately rebuilt on a modern plan. The old hall was erected and given to the city by bishop Tunstal, ornamented with a large cupola in the center, and in other respects exhibiting the elegance which was introduced to these northern parts in that prelate's age: Whether before bishop Tunstal's time there was a
Common-hall
for the burgesses, is not well ascertained; but there was a
Toll-booth
in the middle of the square, as in other ancient places for the weights and measures: As Chambrè tells us,
A beautiful marble cross which stood in the upper part of the street of Gilly-gate, in a place there called the Maid's-harbour, was given to William Wright, of Durham, merchant, at his petition, by Master Ormstrang Scot, lord of Keepyere, to be set up in Durham market-place. That on that occasion the figures of the twelve apostles, of curious workmanship in stone, were repaired and sumptuously gilt; three figures on each side of the cross in a square. At this time Thomas Spark, elected suffragan bishop by bishop Tunstal, was bishop of Berwick, master of Holy Island, and custos and master of Gretham-hospital; at his charge the cross was erected in the Market-place where
Old Toll-booth
stood, in which work he expended eight pounds
Chambrè Hist. Du
. Wharton's Angl. Sac. p. 783—What became of this ancient monument we cannot learn.
.
Adjoining the Town-hall is the house called the New-place, and in some records the Bull's-head: It was part of the possessions of Charles earl of Westmoreland, and tradition says was his palace; perhaps his crest was figured on the building, which occasioned it to be denoted by the Bull's-head, or Black-bull
Ra. nup' Com. West. ob. s. in d'nico suo ut def'd. inter al's un. burg. in so
o Dun. q'd id. nup' Com. in vita sua ut lib'um ten. suum int'uit. port mort. cujusd. Th. Lamb, nativi ipsius nup' Com. qui Thomas illud adquisivit sibi & hered. suis & q'd te de d'eo ep. in burg. p' s. solvend. eid d'no ep. tres d. p'an. &c sect. tri
. cap. cur. burgi Dun. & val. p' ann. ultra rep'rs vjs. viij d. Inq. p. in. xxij Ap. Ao xx ep. Langley.
Inrolment of the purchase of the New-place, otherwise called the Bull, 29 July 13, king James I.
. It was purchased by the citizens for their factory-house
Vide city of Durham, p. 57.
; and now is used as a work-house and charity-school.
Behind this edifice, by the river, side, are the work-houses, dye-houses, and other offices for the city factory
Francis Callaghan was inferred on the 25th of February, 1675. He lest by will out of certain shops in Durham, for the benefit of the poor of St Nicholas' parish,
0s. yearly at Christmas, and 20s. to the poor of St Giles, 20s. to the vicar of St Nicholas, and 4l. to the lecturer for a sermon to be preached on the anniversary of his burial for ever, and 5s. to the bell-ringers for ringing the bells. On any failure of the lecturer the bounty for ever to cease and be extinguished.
.
The church is very plain and meanly built, being constructed of small and perishable stones, so that from frequent pointing it is now almost covered with mortar. It varies greatly from the situation of other churches, evidently to suit the ground whereon it stands, which serves to support the opinion we before gave, that anciently, by a sluice, the city was here occasionally insulated, by bringing in the streams of the Were. The north wall is very strong and lofty, supported by square buttresses, or rather bastions. This church hath two side ailes, that to the north running the whole length of the building; the south aile is shortened by the tower standing on the south-west angle. The nave and two side ailes are twenty paces in width, and to the chancel the nave is twenty-six paces in length: The south aile is formed by one small octagonal column of considerable height, supporting blunt pointed arches: The north aile hath two short octagonal columns, with wide and lofty blunt pointed arches, rising from brackets at the extremities. The chancel opens with a pointed arch in the center, to the south a small column with a pointed arch, to the north a short round column, and irregular circular arches: The chancel is in length six paces to the steps, and the recess for the altar is six paces wide. At the opening of the chancel are the seats for the mercers company and body corporate, neatly fitted up. The roof of the north aile is supported by three half-arches, rising from octagonal brackets. The gates have circular arches: The south windows are modern and sashed; the north windows irregular, and some under pointed arches. This fabric hath been constructed at various times; the north aile bears marks of remote antiquity; but no records afford us further light therein, than that we find Galfrid de Elimer rector in 1133; though by the mode of architecture we should be led to give this church a cotemporary date with the first settlement of the Saxons at Durham.
There were four chantries in this church; one dedicated to St Mary
St Mary's chantry, val. 4l.—It was founded by Hugo de Queringdon, about the year 1299. E. MSS. Tho. Rudd,
Esq
—Tho. Gray, Cantarista.—John Stevenson, custos.—Rich. Walker, custos altaris.—Will. Marshall.—Joh. Dawsoun, incumb. had 4l. p' ann. pension, which I find paid him Ao 1553.—
Randal's MSS.
Plita p' terris in Dunolm. Langley, Rot. E. No 34. 1426.—
Ibid.
, another to St James
St James's chantry, val. 5l. 18s. 4d. It was founded by Tho. Cockside and Alice his wife. E. MSS. Tho. Rudd,
Esq
—
Ibid.
Lic. ad p'quirend terr ad altar S. Jacobi in eccl. S. Nich'i Dun. Rot. Ford. Sch. 3. No 3. Dat. 26 Mar. 1383.—Ra. Cotes, one of the last incumbents of this chantry, at the dissolution had a pension of 5l. p' ann. which he lived to receive in 1553.—Lewis Bell, another incumbent, had 3l. p' ann.—And Wm Mason, another 5l. p' ann.—Likewise 6l. p' ann. was paid to one Robert Robson, belonging in some degree to this chantry chapel.—
Ibid.
, another to the Holy Trinity
The chantry of the Holy Trinity, val. 7l. 3s. 10d. W. Cowper, oc. cantarista, Ao 1501.
, and a fourth to St John the Baptist, and St John the Evangelist
Saints John the Baptist and Evangelist's chantry, val. 6l. 16s. 4d. It was founded by Tho. Kirkeby, rector of Whitburne.
De licentia adquirendi ad manu. mortuam. Rot. A. Langley, No 8. Dat. 5 Jan. 1407.
De cantaria sundata. Ib'm No 13.—
Ibid.
. The chapels on Elvet-bridge are noted as chantries under this church. There was also a guild established in this church, called the Corpus-Christi guild, by virtue of the licence of bishop Langley, which was the ancient mode of establishing a fraternity of merchants before the plan of enchartering was adopted
Rot. Langley, C. No 55. Dat. 3 Apr. xxxo Pont.
Tho. &c. concessimus & licentiam dedimus p' nobis & successorib's n'rs quantum in nobis est Will'o Chauncellor constabulario Dunelm. Ric. Buckley, clerico, Tho. Tange. Rob'to Jackson, and Will'o Racket devotionis zelo & charitatis fervore, &c. q'd ipsi ad laudem Dei & honorem Corpus Christi quandam fraternitatem sive gildam perpetuam de seipsis ac de aliis personis tam de hominibus quam mulieribus in eccl'ia Sc'
Nicholai in Dunelm. de novo incipere, &c. with a power of electing a master or custos, with a common seal, and to plead and be impleaded by name of the gild of Corpus-Christi, &c.—for the rest of the form see the licence for St Cuthbert's gild in the gallilee, under the title cath. church.—
Randal's MSS.
St Nicholas' church.
There was a procession on Thursday after Trinity Sunday, in honour of Corpus-Christi day. The bailiff called together all the inhabitants within the town. Every occupation was to bring forth its banners, with the lights appertaining, and with them to repair to the abbey church door. On the west side of the way stood the banners, and on the east the torches pertaining to the banners.
In St Nicholas' church was a shrine, called Corpus-Christi shrine, appointed to be carried the same day in procession. This shrine was finely gilt, and on the top thereof was a square box of chrystal, wherein was inclosed the holy sacrament. It was carried by four priests, the whole procession of all the other churches in the town going before it. St Cuthbert's banner, with two fine crosses, were brought out to meet it; and the prior and convent, with the choir in their best copes, met the said shrine, and fell on their knees and prayed. It was set in the choir, and
Te Deum
solemnly sung; and all the banners followed the shrine into the church, going round St Cuthbert's feretory with their torches lighted.
In the first year of king Edward VI. commissioners were appointed to deface all such ornaments.—Davies, &c.
. This church is in the deanry of Easington
Certified value, 13l. 19s. 4. Hosp. of Kepier prop.
This living was augmented in Forster's time, to which Mr Tempest contributed 200l. Sir Phil. Butler, of Kent, 100l. and Mr Forster, by collection, 100l. on which 400l. was obtained of the governors of queen Ann's bounty, and a purchase made at Easington of the yearly value of 30l.—
Randal's MSS.
Rectors.
Galfrid de Elimer, 1133.—Galfrid de Elnie, 1267, 1312.—Will. de Orchard, 1346.—Joh. de Appilby, 1348.—Rob. de Bulmer, 1355.—Joh. Austen, 1362.—Tho. de Bryston, 1376.—Wm de Bowland, 1378. Joh. de Hayton, 1392.—Will. de Yharum, 1405.—Joh. de Stafford, 1406.—D'nus Rich. Bukley, 1418.—Tho. Bukley, 1437;
he was rector the 5th of June
1443,
when bishop Nevil annexed this rectory to the hospital of Kepier, for its better support and maintenance, till that hospital was surppressed by the resignation of Franklyn, the last master thereof. I presume this church was served by a stipendiary chaplain from the said hospital.
—Joh. Swain, oc 1501.—Will. Headlam, 1556.—
Extracts from a visitation book of bishop Barnes.
Chr. Green, cur. not licenced comparuit p'sonaliter 3 Feb. 1577, oc. 22 Jul. 1586.—Fra. Foster, oc. 7 Mar. 1637.—
Jonathan Devereux, an intruder.
Curates.
Sam. Martin, cl. oc. 7 Ap. 1663, again 13 May, 1680.—Joh. Sanderson, oc. 1688 and 1702.— Hen. Porter, 1710.—Wm Eden, 1720—John Perkins, 1722.—Rob. Pigot, A. M. 1726.—Wm Forster, A. M. 1749, p. res. Pigot, p. John Tempest, of Winyard,
Esq
He was vicar of Heighington, and lecturer of this church, 1754.—Jonathan Branfoot, 1763, per mort. Forster.—John Robson, A. M. p. m. Branfoot, 1783.—
Randal's MSS.
There is a lecturership instituted in this church, to which the mayor, recorder, and aldermen have the nomination. The stipend arises out of lands at Easington, about 50l. a year.
Lecturers.
T. Heath, gen'osus p'prietarius eccl'ae parochialis divi Nich'i Dun. oc. 27o die Maij, Ao 1625.— John Cock, A. M. 1675, and 1690.—Mich. Burton, A. M.—Hen. Porter, A. M.—John Rymer, A. M, 1722, p. m. Porter.—Will. Forster, A. M. 1732, p. in. Rymer.—Will Forster, A. M. p. res. Forster.— Abraham Gregory, A. M. 1764, p. m. Forster.—Held by sequest. by Jon. Branfoot, &c.—
Ibid.
1366. Comp'tum est p' inq. &c. p'd Johana. de Luceby tenuit, &c. unu. mess. cum p'tin in Dunelm, &c. redd'o eciam.p' sustentac'oe luminaris coram cruce in eccl'ia b'i Nich'i in Dun. p' ann. quatuor libras cerc, &c. Inq. p. m. xxij Tho. &c.
, and was a rectory appropriated to the hospital of Kepier, by Robert Nevill, bishop of Durham, the 5th of June, 1443; and so continued till its suppression: After which it remained in the crown some considerable time, till granted out among other possessions to William Paget, knight. King Edward VI. in the sixth year of his reign, gave the advowson, and also that of St Giles, to John Cockburne, lord of Ormeston: From him they came to John Heath, by purchase, and now are the property of John Tempest,
esq
It appears that Mr Tempest's ancestor married Elizabeth the only daughter of John Heath,
esq
the 27th of October, 1649; in whose descendant the patronage now remains.
Near adjoining to the church is the old city gateway, called Claypeth-gate; a weak edifice, nearly similar to that which lately stood in the South-Bailey, called the Water-gate, having no machicolation, and only the appearance of a single pair of gates, built with irregular stones and much mortar; the present remains of the city wall shew it was of similar construction, remarked by Leland to be of mean masonry: This gate has a foot passage at the east side. Why this gateway now appears so weak, may be owing to the out-works being totally defaced; and here, in particular, if there was a water-sluice, with a draw-bridge, as we presume there was, less strength was required in the gateway
Easington ward book of rates.
Durham. St Nicholas' parish. — Houses, tolls, lands, and mills. Estimated val. 1016—
Grey's MSS.
Landtax at 4s. p' pound, 70l. 11s. 4d.—County rates at 6s. 8d. 1l.—
Mann's MSS.
Bishop's rents, mayor of Durham, and Claypeth gates, 20l. 3s. 4d.—Dean and Chapter's rents, 14l. 17s. 4d.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population in this parish from 1660 to 1679
827
124
955
1760 to 1779
897
272
643
Increase
70
148
 
Decrease
 
 
312
Burials in the last year 31.—Computed number of inhabitants 930.
.
In the street of Claypeth was an ancient chapel, dedicated to St Thomas the Martyr; but where it stood has not been pointed out to us. It is thus mentioned in Randal's MSS.
It was in Clayport, in the city of Durham, on the south side of the said street, in St Nicholas' parish. I meet with no account of the foundation of this chapel, but find it was placed in a chapel-yard, and had an enclosed way to it from the street
Noveritis nos, &c. concessisse, &c. Hugoni de Stillingham, pistori Dunelm. & Aviciae uxori suae una' placeam gardini, &c. in Clayport, &c. ex parte australi viae quae ducit ad capellam. B. Thomae martyris, 1304. D. p. 33.
Noverit. &c. me dedisse, &c. Gilb'to filio meo primogenito totum illud burgagium, &c. cum toto crofte juxta capellam B. Thomae martyris ex parte orientali et terram q'm Jacobus apothecarius tenet de burg. S. Egidij ex altera.
Noverit. &c. me dedisse, &c. Hugoni de Querington frati meo totum illud burgag. quod quondam fuit Hodemanni, &c. cu. toto crofto juxta capellam S. Thomae martyris, ex parte orientali quod emi a mag'ro Gilberto de Batonia.— E. Chartis, C. Hunter, M. D.
28 Ap. 13 k. Hen. VIII. Rob. How and his wife conveyed to John Hall, lands called Small Lees, near Wolsingham, to the use of the church work and ornaments of St. Nicholas' church in Durham.—
Cursitor's Rolls. Bishop Ruthall. Rudd's MSS.
.
The Parish of St Egidius, vulgarly called St Giles.
The street of St Giles, anciently called the borough of St Egidius, and vulgarly Gillygate, ascends swiftly from Claypeth in a curvature, bending to the right, almost a mile in length. It stands on the ridge of a hill, the ground inclining towards the river on each side, in some parts with a very steep descent, having Old Durham to the south, and Kepier to the north.
THE HOSPITAL OF KEPIER,
to which this borough belonged, was first founded in the year 1112, by Ralph Flambard, bishop of Durham, who (acceeded to this See A. D. 1099) for a master and brethren, and dedicated the same to St Giles: He endowed it with the vill of Caldecotes, and a mill upon Milburne, with two sheaves of corn from his demesne lands in the vills of Newbotel, Houghton, Weremouth, Ryhope, Easington, Sedgefield, Shirburn, Querrington, Newton, Chester, Weshington, Boldon, Cleadon, Whickham, and Ryton
FUNDATIO Hospitalis de KYPIER.
In nomine sanctae et individuae Trinitatis. Notum sit omnibus sanctae matris ecclesiae siliis, tam praesentibus quam futuris, quod Ego Ranulphus licet peccator et indignus, tamen Dei gratia Dunelmensis episcopus, hanc ecclesiam in honorem Dei et Sancti Aegidii seci fieri, quam etiam tertio idus Junii dedicavi, anno ab incarnatione Domini MCXII. qui est tertius decimus annus mei episcopatus, in quâ dedicatione eidem ecclesiae, ad subsidium clerici qui mibi serviturus est, et ad sustentationem pauperum qui ibidem in hospitali domo quam seci conversaturi sunt res inferius subscriptas, in liberam et puram elemosinam dono, et volo et praecipio, et auctoritate Dei et istâ meâ donatione, et praesentis chartulae attestatione confirmo, ut firme mancant et perpetue pro salute animae meae, et pro redemptione animarum illorum qui me nutrierunt, scilicet, Willielmi regis qui Angliam conquisivit, et Matildis reginae, et pro animâ quoque Willielmi regis qui me in episcopatus honorem sublimavit, et pro salute animae regis Henrici qui me in eodem honore confirmavit, necnon pro animabus illorum qui aliqua dona vel quamcunque elemosinam ecclesiae S. Cuthberti contulerunt vel collaturi sunt.
Haec autem sunt quae dono, villam meam nomine Caldecotes, cum omnibus quae ad eam pertinent, in planis et pascuis, in pratis et silvis, in aquis, terris cultis et incultis, et exitibus, et omnibus consuetudinibus et libertatibus, tam ecclesiasticis quam secularibus, et unum molendinum de Milneburne, et duas garbas de meis dominicis de hijs villis, scilicet de Newbotel, Houghton, Wermuthe, Reshope, Esington, Seggefelde, Schireburne, Queryngdone, Neutone, Cestre, Wessyngtone, Boldone, Clyvedone, Cwycham, et Ritone, quae omnia quieta et libera ab omnibus consuetudinibus, praedictae ecclesiae S. Aegidii et hospitali ad opus pauperum Christi dono. Quicunque autem ex hiis imminuere, inquietare, vel auferre, vel ablata retinere, vel aliquibus vexationibus fatigare temere praesumpserit, noverit se illud Christo et S. Aegidio anferre, et ideircò divino judicio cum sacrilegis reus existere, atque districtae ultioni in extremo examine subjacere, et cum damnatis aeternaliter peri
e.
In the reign of king Stephen, when Cumin contended for the bishopric, his retainers burnt the hospital and church of St Giles, and laid the whole borough in ashes: In this state it remained till Hugh Pudsey came to the See, who confirmed his predecessors foundation and endowment, restored the edifices, augmented the house, and granted ordinances for its government; appointing, that the fraternity should consist of thirteen, with a master, of which number six should be chaplains, to officiate in the chapel of the hospital, one of whom was to be confessor, and the others to hold domestic offices
ORDINATIO Hospitalis de KYPIER.—Provisum est per venerabilem dominum Hugonum episcopum Dunelmensis ecclesiae, quod sint in domo de Kepyer tresdecem conversi, qui professionem faciant domni et priori domus more consueto, et tenebuntur ad castitatem et ad renunciationem proprietatis, et ad obedientiam magistri quem dominus episcopus praeposuerit; et erunt de numero fratrum sex capellani celebrantes pro animabus ejusdem Hugonis episcopi et venerabilis memoriae domini Ranulphi episcopi Dunelmensis primi fundatoris de Kypier. Qui quidem capellani ministrabunt in capella in eadem, et unus eorundem capellanorum quem magister hospitalis priorem voluerit assignari unâ cum consensu fratrum qui audiet confessiones fratrum conversorum et infirmorum Infra cunam, et faciet correctiones de ordine. Septimus conversus erit dispensator et lardarius. Octavus erit custos tannariae. Nonus erit pistor hospitalis. Decimus erit custos molendini. Undecimus erit graunger et custos carucarum, duodecimus erit custos instauri in diversis locis ubicun
que
habent instaurum, tertius decimus erit receptor et generalis procurator omnium negotiorum hospitalis interius et exterius, quem magister cum assensu prioris et fratrum ad hoc perficere voluerit. Et sciendum quod licebit magistro hospitalis per consensum prioris illius loci et fratrum singulos istorum successive in officiis suis mutare secundum quod providerit utilitati domus magis expedere. Si autem plures fratres fuerint in eâdem domo, quam supra dicti tresdecem, variis officiis ejusdem domus pro dispositione magistri, prioris, et fratrum intendant, fratribus autem numerum tresdecem excedentibus successive decedentibus, locorum illorum alios substituere nullus praesumat nisi magister cum consensu prioris et fratrum ejusdem loci.
Si aliquis conversus ceciderit in languorem continuum, erit infirmitorio, et habebit necessaria in victualibus sicut unus frater percepit in aula, et sicut magister habebit mensam suam in aula nisi fuerit infirmus vel minutus, ita et conversi mensam suam in eadem aula habeant, nisi magister pro necessitate hospitum vel aliâ causâ honestâ aliquo tempore aliter judicaverit de necessitate facienda. Et omnes conversi simul jacebunt in dormitorio, et omnes fratres erunt vestiti decenti habitu et honesto, sicut decet religiosos semel in anno. Et erunt calciati fratres capellani cum botis bis in anno; caeteri conversi qui plus laborant quotiens necesse fuerit, per annum socularibus cum coreis ligatia. Caetera autem necessaria, scilicet de staminis pannis lineis, et de pannis ad lectos fratrum pertinentibus de custuma domus per visum prioris illius domus quotiens necessarie fuerit sine contradictione aliquâ obtinebunt.
. By another charter he granted to the hospital a free borough in the street called St Giles, exempted of in-toll and out-toll, aids, customs, services, and other exactions, and gave them pasturage
ad averia sua, Hayam & extra; focale, & maeremium,
and pannage in his forest. He also gave them a toft in each of the townships of Houghton, Ryhope, Easington, Darlington, Sedgefield, Boldon, and Whickham, where they had tithes of his demesnes. Bishop Pudsey, by the other deed noted by Stevens' Mon. vol. ii. p. 265, grants them Quitteleys and Swyneleys, in Weredale, by boundaries; also granted a lead mine,
ad cooperendum ecclesiam St'ae Mariae & omnium sanctorum & infirmatorium hospitalis praedicti;
and also an iron mine in Rokehope, for their carriages, &c. pasturage for all cattle within the limits,
et pedes canum eorum non sint ibi neq. ad Wacheriam in Weredale, tuneati sed pastores decant eos ligatos proferis ad averia sua senanda pro Lupis.
A toft called Laundene, tithes of the lands of Bradwode and Besanskeldes,
usq. ad Wycheles & unam travam bladi,
from each carucate in Weredale, tithes of all assarts or new cultivations, for which he then took money payments, or kirsete, (Kirkseed)
This record points out the custom of amputating a fore-foot of every dog kept within a forest, to prevent his chasing: Here saved because of the wolves.—A thrave is a term still in use, denoting twenty-four bundles or sheaves of straw, &c.
Vide Mon. Angl. vol. iii. p. 90. Rot. Pat. 8. Ed. 2. p. 2. m. 3. Claus. p. Ed. 3. m. 23. n. 130. ne pastura in Stifford.—
Tanner, p. 114.
In the year 1297, a composition was made between the prior and convent of Durham, and this hospital, whereby the prior and convent did quit claim to the brothers of the said hospital their tithes of corn at Clifton, which, till that time, they had used to pay to the church of St Oswald, in recompence whereof the brothers were to pay yearly upon the altar of St Oswald on his day
unum Bisantium,
or two shillings, &c.
The men of Bedlington being obliged, by their lord the bishop of Durham, to give to the hospital of St Giles, without Durham, one thrave of corn out of every plough land which they held, they granted under their seals in lieu thereof nine shillings in money to be paid to the said hospital on the feast of St Michael, with a
nomine paenae,
&c.
And by another deed gave the town of Clifton, with a sheaf of corn of each carucate in the lands belonging to his bishopric, and the tenth of all lands not before tilled. Ralph Epplyndon gave one carucate at Epplyndon, each plough land thereof to consist of fifteen acres, and twenty acres over and above of his other lands. Gilbert Hansard, all his land at Aymendeston. Walter de Victon, all his land at Frosterly. John de Romesey, sixty-five shillings p' ann. of his half of the town of Claxton. Robert Corbeth, and his daughter Sybilla, the town of Hunstanworth; and by another deed, quits his claim to the land between Knokedenburn and Derwent. Hugh bishop of Durham, gave them the lands of Quitteleys and Swyneleys. Robert bishop of Durham, gave a tenement at Crawcroke. Ralph Mundevill, one sheaf of corn of every carucate at Stotfold. Gilbert, the chamberlain, gave the brothers of this hospital leave to make their mill dam on his ground. W. de Herz, two plough lands at Claxtone. Quenilda, the wife of Richard de Lokes, twelve acres of land at Medomsley. Henry Lightfoot, gave to this hospital all his lands at Bernecrok.—
Stev. Mon. vol. ii. p. 265.
This hospital had the vill of Iveston.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Magister hospitalis de Kypier tenet certas terras in Crawcrook & red. p' ann. xs.—Tenet maner. de Bernecrok & red. p' ann. xs.—Terras quond'm Thomae Marschall et redd. p. an. xxs.—Villam de Hunstanworth quondam Roberti Corbet, per servic. forin. sicut in carta Roberti.—Tenet quand'm assart. & pastur. vocat Knokeden ad intendend. animalia sua ad opus pauperum & est concessa de Elemosina D'ni
Hatfield's Survey.
.
After the restoration of this hospital, we hear of no misfortune interrupting the tranquillity of the society till the dissolution. In the 26th king Henry VIII. the revenue was estimated at 186l. 10d. in the whole, and 167l. 2s. 11d. a year clear. It was surrendered the 14th of January, 36th king Henry VIII. 1545, and granted that same year to Sir William Paget.
In bishop Nevill's time, the several evidences belonging to this hospital were exemplified and confirmed, from copies or other muniments, the originals having been destroyed in the reign of king Stephen, in 1146, when the house was burnt
Grants exemplified with those destroyed.—
Rot. Neville, X. No 31.
Bishop Hugh Pudsey, refoundation deed and several grants.
A charter of Ra. de Epplyngden
— Gilbert Hansard
— Walter de Viclon
— John de Romesey
— Robert de Corbeth
— Robert bishop of Durham
A charter of Ra. de Mundevil
— Gilbert the chamberlain
— Wm de Herz
— Quenilda, wife of Rich. Lokes
— Henry Lyghtfoot, and others
Together with an incorporation of the church of St Nicholas, Durham, therewith.
Rudd's MSS.
.
Kepier came into the possession of the family of Heath, by purchase from the Cockburnes, in the time of bishop Pilkington
Exemplif. of a fine from John Cockburn, lord of Ormiston, and Alice his wife, to John Heath, of the city of London, merchant, of the manors of Kepyer, Old Durham, Iveston, Frosterley, Little Kepyer, and Tweedmouth, 27th July, 18 Eliz. 1576.—
Rudd's MSS. Cursitors Rolls.
Gillygate, Sc'i Egidij p'pe Dun.
De dominis & Seneschallis de Gillygate & Iveston.
Joh'es Heath, arm. d'nus de Gillygat & de Iveston, 18 Eliz.—Fundavit. scholam apud Houghton. Sepultus Aug. 1591, in cancella ecclesiae de Gillyg.
Perquisivit de Joh'ae Cockburne, d'ni de Ormeston, and Alicia uxor ejus, maneria de Keepyer, Old Durham, Iveston, Gillyg. &c.—
Rot. cl. temp. vac. p. mort. Pilkington, C. No 6.
Cui successit Joh'es Heath, de Keepyer, 40, 41 Eliz.—Rot. cl. Tob. ep'i. A. No 16.—
Mich. Ca
verley, gen. senese.
Cui successit Tho. Heath, ar. frater ejus 17 k. Ja. I. Sene'lli ejus, &c. &c.
Joh'es Heath, arm. 1658, qui cum patre suo Thoma vendider. Keepyer, Ra'do Cole, pr'i Nich'i Cole, bar. 5 Car. I.—
Rot.
l. Howson, epi No 3.
Joh'es Tempest, arm. A. D. 1673.—
Mickleton's MSS.
, and continued in that family till the year 1658, when they sold it to Ra. Cole,
Esq
whose son, Sir Nicholas Cole, sold it in parcels to the families of Tempest, Carr, and Musgrave, the present owners. And Tempest, by an intermarriage with the heiress of the Heaths
27 Oct. 1744. Par. reg. St Giles.
PEDIGREE OF HEATH OF KEPIER.
From the visitation of Wm Flower,
Esq
N. K. of A. and Robert Glover, Porte.
1575,
with additions from the visitation of Sir R. S. George, N. K. of A.
1615. Arms.—Party p' chevron or. & sa. 2 mullets and a cock counterchanged. Granted by W. Harvey, clarencieux, 4 Aug. 1558. Motto—
Espere Mieux.
John Heath, of Heath in the co of Middlesex.
John Heath of Twickenham
John Heath
This gentleman purchased Kepier, &c. July 1576.
of Lond. warden of the Fleet Ob. 1591. Buried in St Giles's church.
Margaret d. of Cloker.
Nich. Heath, of East Greenwich, in Kent, 2 son.
Anne d. of John Topp. sen.
Margaret wife of John Burrel.
Topp. Heath son & heir.
Ann d. of Sir Wm Blakiston of Blakiston, Knt.
Nich. Heath, son & heir, year old in 1615.
John Heath, of Ramside.
Anne d. of Tho. Burrel, of York.
Edward son & heir, Aet. 8, 1615.
Thomasine.
Anne.
Eliz.
Dorothy.
Anne w. of John Bunam, of Norwich.
Margaret w. of John Smaithwaite, a preacher.
John Heath of Kepier,
Esq
living 1615.
Elizabeth d. of — Parker, of Warwicke.
Ann d. of Sir Wm Blakiston of Blakiston, Knt.
Nicholas.
Thomasine.
John.
Dorothy d. of John Blakiston of Blakiston,
Esq
Thomas of East Grange.
Edward Heath
Anne d. of — Peckover, of Norwich.
, gained the other possessions of that family, and again united it with Old Durham.
Kepier house stands in a very low situation, not a mile from the city, on the banks of the river, and commanding a very short prospect. Of the hospital nothing remains but the gateway; part of the superstructure of which appears much more modern than the arching of the gate: There are two shields of arms on the front, one on the dexter side appears to be the arms of Tinmouth monastery, the other so much effaced by time that the bearings cannot be perfectly ascertained; but how Tinmouth came to have any authority or interest here, we have not discovered; and indeed the exact succession of masters is not known.
The borough tenure is of a mixed nature, the tenements being aliened by deed for ninety-nine years, which conveyance must be attended with an admittance from the lord, or his court-holder; and from admittance of alienee or heir, the widow has her frankbank.
THE CHURCH OF ST GILES.
The church of St Giles has marks of distant antiquity; it has no ailes, and much resembles the old church at Jarrow, being narrow, long, and very lofty: It is thirty paces in length, and only seven wide; the rafters of the roof are supported on brackets; it is lighted to the south by six irregular windows, and two to the north; the tower rises from a pointed arch. The arch which separated the chancel from the nave is broken down: The chancel is ten paces long, and of equal width with the rest of the church; has a modern window to the east, two windows under pointed arches to the south with pilasters, and one similar to the north. The font is a large uncouth cauldron. There is a recumbent effigy cut in wood, in the chancel; tradition says it belonged to the tomb of one of the Heaths, pourtrayed in a complete suit of armour, his sword sheathed, the hands elevated, and head rested on a helmet, with a bear's paw for the crest; at the feet these words
Hodie Michi
St Giles's curacy not in charge.
Cert. val. 24l.—Real value 26l.—Augmented by subscrip. 1768, with 200l. and from queen Ann's bounty 200l.
Incumbents.
Meldredus, 1131. —Joh. Kirman, cl. curate oc. 6 Jul. 1559.—Sir Geo. Cooke, curate oc. 10 Jul. 1564.—Sir Oliver Esle, cur. oc. 16 October, 1565. —Christopher Greene, cl. 1574.— Rob. Prentize, oc. 22 Jul 1578, Barnes vis.—Jacob Hobson, cur. oc. 23 Jul. 1578.—Jac. Pinckney, cur. oc. 20 Jun. 1583.—Will. Morrow, 4 Feb. 1584, oc. Mar. 1590, upon his going to Pittington, 1591. I presume J. Watson succeeded, I meet with him in the par. reg. 1604, and again in 1621.—Elias Smith, A. M. lec. 18 Ap. 1632.—Hen. Smith, A. B. 1665.—Tho. Cam. 1682.—Rich. Beel, 1685.—Will. Dunn, 1691.—Joh. Perkin, 1706. and 1708.—Henry Porter. —Will. Foster, A. M. 24 June, 1723.—Rob. Pigot, A. M. 1725. p. res. Forster.—Chilton Wilson, A. M 1730, p. res. Pigot.—Rob. Davison, A. M. p. res. Wilson.—Ra. Gelson, A. B. 18 Feb. 1768, the bishop by lapse. —John Robson, A. M. 22 Oct. 1768.—
Randal's MSS.
In this church was a gild, called St Giles's gild, value p' ann. 7l. 4s. 2d.—Randal.—[But it is probable this may be a mistake, and that it was a chantry, as I find one of that value mentioned.]
The parish register of St Giles begins
1584,
in which are the following notes.
"A. D. 1589. The plague began the first time in Gilligate."
"1597. Plague began the second time; a maid servant of John Homell's died x Aug. of the plague."— About forty-four died of the plague.
"1604. Nell Mewer, servant to Mr Watson, curate of St Giles's, 6 Nov. of the plague."—It continued from September to the 25th of January, 1605, and about eighteen died.
Marg. Hall bur. 1 Jan. 1622. She gave to the parish for a standing stock the sum of 20l. and the increase of the same to be bestowed in repairing of the cawsie from Giles's brig to the cawsie foot betwixt the therd day of May and th
foure and twentye day of June; or else to return to the executors.
1636. Mem'd'm, That Ra. Young gave 10l. to the parish of St Giles, &c. Mem. That this legacy was laid out in a parcel of ground for the use of the poor in Gilligate.
1639. Joh'es Heath de Keepeyr arm. vir pius, pauperum pater, et hujus ecclesiae benefactor, poculum enim argenteum (quo sanguis Christi preciossimus populo potandus exhibetur) cum operculo hinc ecclesiae dono dedit; naturae concessit 6o die Jan. an. aetatis sue 71o & sepeliebatur die sequente circa quartam horam matutinam.
Some inscriptions on the tombstones of the Heaths family, but much mutilated, are in the chancel, dated 1612, 1638, &c.
Magistri hospitalis de Kepyer.
Adam canonicus procurator, 1167.—1254, Johan de London, chaplain to bishop Kirkham.—1300, Petrus de Thoresby.—1311, Hugo de Monte Alto. 1341, Edmund Howard, archdeacon of Northumberland.— 1351, Will. Legat, rector of Branspeth.—1388, Hugo Heile.—
Robert de Wycliffe, ob. ap'd Kepier.
1423, rector of Rudby, and one of bishop Skirlaw's executors.—1437, Richard Bukley.—1439, John Lounde.—Henry Gyllowe.—1479, Ralph Booth. — 1497, Tho. Colston, nepos epi Fox.—1501, Roger Layborn.—15—, John Boerius.—1515, William Franklyn, and who surrendered this hospital.
Easington Ward book of rates.
Durham.—St Giles's parish, estimated value 739l. 6s. 4d.—
Grey's MSS.
 
£.
s.
d.
Land tax at 4s.
62
17
8
County rate at 6 s. 8 d.
3
1
6
 
£
s.
d.
Dean and chapter's rents
11
18
4
Mann's MSS.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population in this parish from 1660 to 1679 inclusive
241
78
234
1760 to 1779
418
138
604
Increase
177
60
430
Burials in the last year 39.—Computed number of inhabitants 1170.
Ralph earl of Westmoreland died seised of lands in Gillygate, which he held of the master, &c. of Kepier, paying a rent and doing service at three courts "in vico predicto".—
Inq. p. m. xxo Langley.
Applynden paid 13s. 4d Wm Heron, lord of Say. Inq. p. m. 17 Skirlaw.
John Bille held lands of this house of 6s. rent.—
Inq. p. m. 12 Hatfield.
Lands called Staynegrave, held of the hospital.—
Inq. p. m 29 Hatfield.
Wm de Claxton paid a rent of 65s. out of lands at Fishburn. —
Inq. p. m. 25 Hatfield.
Rob. de Hethworth paid 12s. rent for Le Mains.—
Inq. p. m. 2 Joh.
.— Probably this was the effigy of John Heath, who was buried in the chancel, in the year 1591.
The traveller who is conducted to this church, should be admitted at the north door, and depart from the south door, where a noble prospect opens to the view, too extensive for a picture, and too rich for description. The inadequate ideas which language can convey, are to be lamented by the reader who has a taste for rural beauties, and the elegance of landscape. The church of St Giles stands upon very elevated ground, open to the south where the view is unobstructed. In front the meadow grounds form a steep descent to the river; on one wing closed by the wood called Pelaw Wood, on the other by the buildings of the street. At the foot of the hill the river Were forms a beautiful canal, almost a mile in length, terminated by Elvet bridge to the right, and by the wooded inclosures of Old Durham on the left. On the opposite shore is the race ground, consisting of an extended tract of level meads, from whence, by a gradual ascent, rise the two Elvets; the street of Old Elvet running parallel, the other obliquely, bordered with gardens, and terminated by Elvet church; a handsome structure. The channel of the river lying between New Elvet and the Bailies, affords an agreeable break or change in the objects; the sloping gardens being seen over the buildings of Elvet, softened to the eye with that pleasing teint which the distance produces. On the brink of the ascent stand the Bailies, object rising gradually above object, guarded with the remains of the town wall, and crowned with the cathedral church, which in this view presents the north and east fronts, like the mitre which binds the temples of its prelate; giving the noblest supreme ornament to the capital of the principality. To the right Elvet bridge, with seven arches, receives the stream, and intercepts a further view of the progress of the river: Over it, tier above tier, rise the buildings of Sadler-street, the gloomy and solemn towers of the gaol, and the battlement and octagonal tower of the castle; the trophies of civil jurisdiction wearing the aspect of old secular authority, and the frowns of feudal power. Between the chief objects, the cathedral and castle, on the nearer back ground, South-street, with its hanging gardens, makes a fine curvature; behind which Brandon Mount, with a spit of high land extending towards Auckland, form the horizon. Further to the right, from the banks of the river, rise the buildings of the Market-place, crouding the tower of the church, from whence the streets of Claypeth and Gillygate extend. Thus far description has proceeded without much faultering, but in the other divisions of the scene it is faint and totally inadequate: Whoever would know the rest must come and view it
See the view placed as a head-piece to the first page of this volume.
. Over the meadows, in the center, a precipice rises near one hundred perpendicular feet in height, called MAIDEN CASTLE, fear, or cliff; the steep sides of the hill to the right and left are covered with a forest of old oaks, and the foot of the cliff is washed by the river, whose stream appears again at this point. The lofty ridge of hills cloathed with oaks, stretching away, forms a ziz-zag figure; at the most distant point of which, the great southern road, up the new inclosed grounds of Elvet moor, is seen climbing the hill, for near a mile, beyond which very distant eminences form a blue-tinged horizon. To the left of Maiden castle cliff you look upon a rich valley, highly cultivated, extending nearly five miles in length and two in width, bending to the south-west, through which the river winds its silver stream, in the figure of an S: Hanging woods shut in each side of the nearer vale, where are finely disposed, the pleasant village of
Shincliff,
the bridge of three arches, the villa of William Rudd,
esq
and
Hough-hall house:
The extreme part of the valley is closed by the woods of Shincliff,
Butterby,
and
Croxdale,
forming an elegant amphitheatre; over these rise distant hills, lined out with inclosures, giving the yellow and brown teint to the landscape over the richer coloured woods. The whole finished with an elevated horizon, on the wings of which are scattered the villages of
Ferryhill
and
Merrington;
the tower of Merrington church forming a beautiful and lofty obelisk. One of the greatest excellencies of this landscape is, that the ground rises gradually before you, and just such a distance is maintained as preserves all the objects distinct; not like the landscapes painted by the Flemish and Dutch masters. To the left you look down upon
Old Durham house,
its terraces and hanging gardens, with a fine bend of cultivated country stretching away through another opening of the hills towards the east, bounded by the high grounds of Quarrington, and the cliffs of Coxhoe Limekilns; more rustic than the other views, and being in a simpler nature, affords a pleasing variety to the eye of the man of taste, who stands (if we may be allowed the extravagant expression)
on this enchanted ground
Mr Doubleday's house, which is covered with lead, commands from the roof the whole of this prospect, with a wide, though much less beautiful, view to the northward.
.
Old Durham house
is gone to decay, nothing now remaining but apartments for a farmer: It was anciently the seat of the Booths, afterwards of the Cockburns, lords of Ormston, and in more modern times became the estate of the Tempests, to which latter family it passed by intermarriage with the heiress of the Heaths. The gardens are formed into terraces of a considerable length. This sweet retirement is become a place of public resort, where concerts of music have frequently been performed in the summer evenings, and the company regaled with fruit, tea, &c. The gardens are open all summer for rural recreation. The terraces command the elegant valley prospect before described.
At the corner of the garden some few years ago were the remains of a very ancient building, with a circular window, and other appearances of the chapel form. When the Scots burnt the hospital of Sherburn, it is probable they destroyed the camera here. Of Poulton, Grainge, Ramside, and Ravensflat, mentioned in the book of rates to lie in this parish, there is nothing remarkable
From a pamphlet intitled "A brief View of Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction, &c." addressed to Nathaniel Curzon, bart. and the rest of the committee appointed by parliament for inquiring into the abuses and corruptions of ecclesiastical courts and jurisdictions. London, printed for J. Peele. 1733.
I have now by me a most moving and lamentable account, contained in about sixty letters, sent me by Mr J. Tempest, of Old Durham, formerly a member of your house, complaining of the most barbarous and tyrannic proceedings of the spiritual and temporal courts there against his person, estate, and property, that ever was known to have been practised in any court of law or justice whatever. And this, as he says, chiefly promoted and carried on by a confederacy between the bishop's chancellor and sheriff, who, by their under officers and agents, have illegally seized upon whatever of his property they can lay their hands on, on pretence of an outlawry or excommunication, of which he had no notice till the seizure was actually made: And that upon application to his sovereign, the bishop, for redress, he has been denied all manner of relief; and therefore intreats me to represent his case to you the parliament's committee, which I am now preparing to that end. W. Bohun.
The editor of Camden says, p. 946.
On the same river is Old Durham, from the name of which one would conjecture, either that the monks had first come thither with St Cuthbert's body, or that there had been a town of that name before their coming. But both these things are unwarranted from history.
PEDIGREE OF THE BOOTHS OF OLD DURHAM. Arms.—Argent three boars heads erected and erased, fable.—Guillim, p. 165, edit. 1724.
John Booth, of Barton, in the county of Lancaster.
**** d. of Trafford.
John
John
John
John.
George
William
George
George
Margery, ux. John Byron, of Clayton Com. Lancaster.
Lawrence, bishop of Durham, & afterwards archbishop of York, ob 19 May, 1480. See vol. i. p. 341.
Roger Booth.
Richard of O. Durham, the 5th son.
Philippa, d. & co. of T. Fulthorpe, de Hurworth.
Ralph of Tunstall.
Jane, ux. — Fulthorpe.
Ann — Smith, of Staynton.
Lawrence
Roger of O. Durham.
Grace, d. of ******
Isabel, ux. J. Swinburne, of Wylam Nor'd
Jane
R. Booth, of O. Durham 1575.
Catharine, d. of W. Layton, of Sproxton, Yorkshire.
Roger, 1575. Aet. 3 months.
Elianor
Elianor
Elizabeth
Catharine
Isabella, ux. Hen. Radcliffe.
Johanna, ux. W. Constable.
William 2d son.
John archd. of Durham.
Ralph mast. of Kepyer hospital.
Robert
Roger
Roger
Thomas
T. Booth, knt.
Catherine, d. of *****
.
Magdalen chapel stood on the north side of Gillygate, in an adjacent field, the ruins of which shew it was a little mean edifice.
On a flat plot of ground, between the roads leading to Sunderland on the one hand, and Sherburn hospital on the other, a little before they unite, is a square platform raised above the common level, which was anciently called the
Maiden's Bower,
where the fine cross stood which was removed into Durham market-place at the instance of William Wright, as before mentioned. Mr Cade, in the tract particularly noted in the next page, says,
The ground plot and ramparts of the watch tower which served for signals to (a station placed by him at Old Durham) Maiden Castle, are visible and almost entire at the entrance of Gillygate moor, and exactly correspond in form with those on the Roman wall in Northumberland.
For want of distinguishing what entrance to the moor these remains (described by Mr Cade) lie near, we have not been able to discover this piece of antiquity, and know of no other vestigia of old work than the ground work of the old cross.
The Parish of
ST OSWALD.
Part of the parish of St Oswald lies in the ward of Easington, and part in Chester ward. This parish includes the chapelries of St Margaret in Crossgate, and Croxdale.
In our account of the chantries in the church of St Nicholas, we shewed by a record in bishop Langley's time, that a tenement belonging to the chantry of St Mary was described to be in
the old borough of Durham: In vet'i burgo Dun. sup. finem pontis novi
Harl. MSS. 1808.
Anno d'ni mill'mo, cccxviijo accidit in epatu Dunelm. res mirabilis et omnino detestabil. q'd cum d'nus Ri'cus Marmeduc Senescall's epi Dunelm. versus comitatu Dunelm. equitaret
super veterem pontem
Dunelm. intersectus est p' dn'm Rob'tum do Neville cognatum suum. Ao vero sequenti mo cccxix quo anno rex Edward—: secundus tennit pascham apud Kirkham cum regina, idem Rob'tus de Neville in superbia filios excomunicatos & latrones congregavit volens aliqua p'dam in marchia Scocie impetrare. Sed ut accessit ad parcum de Bewyk intersectus est p. Jacobum de Douglas & Rad'us de Neville frat. suus junior & heres vit. reservat. et in custodia d'ni Patricij de Dunbarre Comitis Marchic Scocic ut prisonar. detent's & postea feliciter redemptus & liberatus.
ex p'te australi. ten. Pr. Dun. &c.
which, with other records of the like nature, prove, that
the old borough of Durham
was situated in the parish of St Oswald, and so all the ancient muniments tend to confirm. It is conjectured, when the bishop erected
a new free borough
for merchants in Elvet, the distinctions of
the borough of Elvet,
and
the old borough of Durham
first arose. Was there not much evidence to shew, there were distinct places called the old and new borough, out of the bounds of the city, and in the limits of St Oswald's parish, we should not have insisted on the position so positively. When the
old borough of Durham
had its rise, from whence, or what were its privileges, we remain ignorant; but the evidence we shall produce leads us to judge
the old borough of Durham
comprehended the whole parish of St Oswald, substracted from Croxdale, and that on the institution of
the borough of Elvet,
limits and bounds were set to the new borough, and the rest remained to the old borough; admitting this conjecture, it will follow, that the old borough comprehended Crossgate, South-street, &c. now St Margaret's chapelry, and in fact circumscribed the new borough, It is not material to press this subject further than to support our first position, that Old Durham, and the old borough of Durham, were the first settlements of the Saxons here, before they built their church on the summit of the hill; and from thence those places derived their present name.
On the cliff before described, in the view from Gillygate church, is the platform now called
Maiden Castle
Mr J. Cade, of Durham, in a tract published in the 7th vol. of the Archaeologia, p. 75, has mentioned this place, and some works at Old Durham, extracts from which are placed here, that the reader, and particularly the traveller, may judge for himself on the subject.
In the first place then, I would observe, that there are several camps or stations in this county, which were undoubtedly of Roman original; but being subsequently occupied by different tribes of adventurers, and altered according to their respective modes of defence, this circumstance has caused their primary occupancy to be overlooked by antiquaries. I shall mention particularly those of
Mainforth
and
Maiden castle,
(now Old Durham) &c. The latter is the property of J. T
mpest,
esq
and lies within half a mile of this city, measuring, according to Dr Stukeley's account, about five hundred feet in length, &c. Our camp at Maiden Castle I suppose may have derived its name from the British word
mad
pulcher or fair, which the Rev. Mr Pegge thus ingeniously explains, in treating of the maiden way or maiden castle, in the county of Westmerland, and which term is particularly applicable to the delightful situation of Old Durham. It also has a better claim to be considered as the Condurcum of the Romans, from which it is about two miles distant, than the camp near Sunderland bridge, (which is evidently of Danish construction) and which the annotator upon Camden says, was the opinion of a very great antiquary. I may likewise observe, with the learned Mr Whitaker and others, that the Romans had generally a summer and a winter station, situated within a few miles of each other, and often on opposite sides of the same river; which entirely coincides with the situation of Chester and this camp; the former might be the summer station, and this the winter. In Hollinshed's Chronicle, first edition, p. 225, we have an account of a memorable siege which this place sustained in favour of king Athelstan, against an army of Scots and Danes, commanded by Godfrey brother to Anlaf, and son to Sithric, the Danish king of the Northumbrians, about the year 930, under the title Duresme
Duresme appears to have been a name introduced by the Normans, on account of the fortress built here after the Conquest, to keep the natives in subjection.
, though the foundations of the present city were not laid till sixty years afterwards; and Marianus mentions a synod being held at Dunelhoo, Ao 822. This station, I imagine, was formerly thought of great consequence, but it at length suffered the rate of many others in the northern parts, when William the Conqueror made that horrid devastation between York and this place, and erected his castrum in the new city
A melancholy instance of this depopulation, amongst many others, is to be met with at Acley, (or Acliff) in this county, which may probably derive its name from Acca, bishop of Hagustald, in the beginning of the eighth century, and where Sir Henry Spelman mentions two Saxon councils having been held, annis 782 and 789. About a mile from the aforesaid village, after the grass is cut, the foundations of a considerable town, with a large church in form of a cross, are very conspicuous.
; the fortifications were then partly levelled, but enough is left to point out its former magnitude and importance; it being, in my opinion, much larger than Dr Stukeley
His description is as follows; Iter Boreale, p. 70.
Eastward, over the river Were, upon another peninsula of high ground, I saw a camp, called Maiden Castle, which I judge to be Roman. It is almost incompassed too by a rivulet falling into the river from the east. It is of an oblong form, five hundred feet long, very steep on three sides; the neck is guarded by a rampart, and without that, at some little distance by a ditch. The prospect is large, more especially eastward.
has described; and the rivulet
Pidding,
has, with great labour and ingenuity, been diverted from its original channel, where it ran into the Were, near Shinkley bridge, to answer the purpose of the fosse along the southern and western sides of it. A gentleman, with whom I am acquainted, has carefully surveyed the old road from this place by Kepyer hospital, and he assures me, that in a dry season, the piers of a bridge are obvious in the bed of the river, seemingly of Roman construction; and I have authority to say, that coins have been formerly ploughed up here, and lately some of the lower empire have also been discovered within its vicinage. The ground plot and ramparts of the watch tower, which served for signals to this station, are visible and almost entire at the entrance of Gillygate moor, and exactly correspond in form with those on the Roman wall in Northumberland. At Newton-hall likewise, on the opposite side of the river, there has been an exploratory castrum, seemingly for the security of Old Durham and Chester-le-Street.
Maiden Castle he places at Old Durham, and supposes it a Roman camp: To illustrate his subject, the tract is attended in the Archaeologia with a plate; which represents the supposed face of a vallum, and shews in the back ground a round mount. This supposed vallum is at present so much levelled, that if ever it was forced, it now appears no otherwise than the swift slope of the bank on the side of the brook, and the mount is only a natural swell or rotundity of the back ground. The plot of ground chosen by this gentleman for the station or camp, on the north-west side nearest to old Durham, and where the brook doth not run, shews some deep trenches and high earth fences; but the whole is so irregular, that it is not possible to derive any distinct figure from the remains of the works. He quotes Hollinshed's Chronicle to support a conjecture, that about the year 930, this place sustained a siege. We beg leave to compare this authority with others referred to in the 3d page of this volume. We have not been fortunate enough in our reading, hitherto to discover any evidence that William the Conqueror, when he laid waste the country, destroyed this place, or
that it suffered the fate of many others in the northern parts, and that the fortifications were then partly levelled.
—Dr Stukeley's description may, perhaps more happily be applied to the place described by us, and delineated in our plate; it is certainly of "high ground" hanging "over the river." and almost full "east" of the city: "Of an oblong form" one hundred and seventy paces long on the most extended side, which comes almost accurately to his description,
five hundred feet long, very steep on three sides, the neck guarded by a rampart, and without that, at some little distance, by a ditch.
The last circumstance noted by that author fixes the point. "The prospect is large, more especially eastward." The elevation of Old Durham ground, pointed out by Mr Cade,
no part is above fifteen feet from the plain, where any slope lies upon the margin of the brook; and the prospect consequently is bounded eastward, by the termination of the vale, at the rising grounds of Shincliff, not more than a quarter of a mile distant.
Mr Cade's positions, in the treatise from whence the foregoing extract is made, may, it is hoped, without an invidious appearance be shortly commented on, to the intent the reader may form a competent idea of the circumstances, or be led to enquire for himself upon the spot.
, inaccessible from the river by reason of the steepness of the cliff, which is almost perpendicular, and about one hundred feet in height. —On the right and left the steep sides of the mount are covered with a thick forest of oaks: The crown of the mount consists of a level area or plain, forty paces wide on the summit of the scar, in the front or north east side, one hundred and sixty paces long on the left-hand side, and one hundred and seventy paces on the right. The approach is easy on the land side, from the south-west, fortified with a ditch and breast work: The entrance or passage over the ditch is not in the middle, but made to correspond with the natural rise of the outward ground; probably this entrance was guarded by a draw-bridge: The ditch is twelve paces wide, and runs with a little curvature to each edge of the slope, now covered with wood as before noted; on one hand being fifty paces in length, on the other eighty paces. After passing the ditch there is a level parade or platform, twenty paces wide, and then a high earth fence, now nine feet perpendicular, which, as in most places of the like kind, it is apprehended, was faced with mason-work: A breast work has run from the earth fence on each hand along the brink of the hill, to the edge of the cliff or scar. The earth fence closes the whole neck of land, and is in length one hundred paces, forming the south-west side of the area. These particulars are illustrated by the annexed plate. It is most probable this was the
vetus burgus Dunelmensis
noted in the records; it is at a little distance from the head of the street called Old Elvet, in a direct line therewith, and opposite to Old Durham, the river dividing it from the latter place, and almost filling up the intervening space: It was supported anciently, as is presumed, by another fortress called the
Peel,
erected on the opposite eminence, which now bears the name of Peel Law. Many places in the northern counties retain the name of Peel and Law, implying castle and hill, whose antiquity may be traced back to the Saxon times. We presumed to offer an opinion, in the preceding pages, that in the valley overlooked by this fortress, the wandering Saxons sat down with the remains of Saint Cuthbert; and we submit to the candour of the reader, whether that idea is altogether vague and improbable. The name of
maiden
applied to a castle is now become indefinite; whether it imples
beautiful,
or a fortress which never has been conquered, has not been determined: Our best antiquaries give preference to the distinction
fair
or
beautiful.
The old fort, on Stainmore, in Westmoreland, is called
Maiden Castle,
and the adjoining inclosures bear the name of Peel-yard.
Bishop Carilepho, on his bringing in the canons regular, granted to the convent, Elvet as a free borough, that they might have forty merchants there, exempted from all dues and duties to him and his successors
Vide notes vol. i. p. 134.—Mon. Angl. vol. i. p. 43.—Lel. Col. vol. ii. p. 385.
.
In the reign of king Stephen, Cumin's soldiers burnt the borough of Elvet; at the same time they burnt St Giles's. Bishop Pudsey restored the borough, and confirmed it to the convent, with all its ancient privileges
Geof. de Coldingham.
Declara'co Antonij epi sup' metis & divisis veteris burgi. E copiam parochiali reg'ro S'ce Margarete, Dun. Universis s'ce matris ecl'iae filiis ad quorum notitiam p'sentes l'rae p'venerint, Anthonius Dei gra. Dun. epus. s. in d'no sempiternam, notum vobis facimus, q'd cum olim bone memorie Will'ms Dun, ep'us primus p'decessor n'r dil'cis in Xro filiis pr. & conventui Dunelm. terras & ten. ex occidentali p'te Dun. ultra aqua. de Were usq. ad aquam de Brun concessisset donasset & charta sua confirmasset (Ballivi n'ri tanqua. extranei hujus modi fc'm penitus ignorantes p'tem etia illar terrar. — n'ram fuisse existimantes) quibusdam ad firmam dimiserunt in dil'ior filior damnum & p'judicium. Nos in hac p'te rei c'titudinem ac v'itatem plenius cognoscentes terras illas p' certas divisas antiquas & usitatas vid. Ab aquo de Were ascendendo rivulum de Milneburne, v'sus Gybetknoll ex p'te australi, de Gybetknoll versus aquilonem directe usq. ad viam regiam ducentem versus Lanchester, et ab illa via usq. ad corneram australem p'ci de Bearepair. & sic descendendo usq. in Brun. et — terre vel more continetur inter Bearepair et viam regiam qua itur de Crosegate versus Brounspittell quod est juxta Rilleybridge, iterum in aquam de Broun dil'cis in xro filiis pr. & co'ventui Dun. & succ. suis reddimus & omnino quietas clamamus ac donaco'em p'decessoris n'ri p'dci eisdem f'cam p' nob. & succ. n'ris tenore p'sentiu. confirmamus imp'p't'm. Et ne nos aut succ. n'ri in terris & ten. sed'm divisas p'no'iatas exacco'em calumniam aut p'prietatis clamiu. inposteru. exigere aut vendicare postimus p'sens scriptum sigilli n'ri munimine roboramus. Test. &c.—
Randal's MSS.
These boundaries are partial, and only include the common lately inclosed, called Crosgate moor, &c. &c.
. In the convention entered into between bishop Poore and the convent, for quieting their privileges, we find Elvet thus mentioned.
Consuetudines et emendationes de bracinis et false pane, &c. de hoib's prior. apud Elvet & apud vetus burgum Dunelm. remanebunt, &c. P'dci autem hoi'es prioris de Elvet & de veteri burgo Dunelm. utantur eisdem mensuris & ponderibus quibus hoi'es ep'i utuntur in burgo suo Dunelm.
This convention was ratified and exemplified by bishop Hatfield
Rot. A. Sch. 9. No 1. Vide vol. i. p. 202.
. That prelate, in 1379, made a confirmatory grant of tenements, given to the priory by bishop Bury, wherein they are distinctly described, "
Un. mess. & quatuor cot. cum p'tin. in Elvet in Dun. &c. un. gardinu et tres acras prati cum pertin. in vet'i burgo Dun. &c.
Rot. B. Sch. 2. No 1.
"—In a licence from bishop Dudley, 1483, to the convent, to put lands in mortmain, Elvet is thus mentioned:
Baronia de Elvet juxta Dun. burgo de Elvet juxta Dun.— Vet'i burgo Dun.—Vic. Sc'i Egidii juxta Dun,—Burgo Dun.—& ballio australe Dun
Rot. A. Dudley. No 77.
. Here we see the barony of Elvet, the borough of Elvet, the old borough of Durham, and the borough of Durham: The reader will immediately draw the distinction, and with it, we presume, this inference, that the borough of Elvet, the borough of Durham, and the old borough of Durham, are several; the name of the borough of Durham being solely applied to the present city
Lic. to acquire lands Rot. Fordham Sch. N. No 13, the like distinction cum multis aliis.
Inq. p. m. Killinghall. A close of land in the old borough of Durham, Ao xo Tho. ep.
Inq. p. m. Aslackby. Tenements in Milburngate, South-street and Crossgate, "in vet'i burgo Dun." &c. xxvo Tho. ep. Cum multis aliis.
.
Having trespassed much on the reader's patience, we proceed with the parish of St Oswald. There are two streets, the one called Old Elvet, the other New Elvet; from New Elvet branches out a street, called Hallgarth-street; from the prior's hall, named in the records
Elvet Hall,
the manor and barony house standing therein
John de Herdwyck, d. s. &c. a mess. in Elvet, Durham, held of the prior of Durham, by suit at the three head courts yearly, at the priors court at Elvet-hall, &c.—Inq. p. m. q'o Skirlaw, ap. Seggefield, cor. R. de Laton, esc.
. At the end of this street is a lofty hill of a conical figure, called Mont'joye, rising from the plain or valley, (but on the opposite side of the river to Old Durham) where we have presumed the Saxons sat down with the remains of St Cuthbert. In French history we find a definition of this historical title, for there the name of Mont-joye is given to heaps of stones laid together by pilgrims, on which crosses are erected, when they come within view of the end of their journey; and so betwixt St Dennis, in France, and Paris, they are called St Dennis's mont-joyes. When the travellers, bearing St Cuthbert's remains, arrived here, they would view the whole ground of their destination; and it lies in the exact line in which we presume they made their progress from Ripon. The extremity of New Elvet bears the name of Church-street.
The church stands in a fine elevated situation, on the brink of the river. Much conjecture arises in etymologies; perhaps the situation gave the name to Elvet, derived from the French
elevè,
lofty, sublime. The street of Old Elvet is very broad, excellently paved, and well built
We find a tenement in this street called
Bedforth Place.
Jac. ex una p'te cujusd. burgag. voc. Bedforth Place, in tenura Johis Gibson.
Fox Rot. B. Ao 1495.
John de Elvet held of the lord bishop in cap. 4 mess. in Old Elvet, of the prior of Durham by
fealty,
and three suits at
the prior's court for the barony
of Elvet, and paying
hostillar. d'ci pr. v
s. p' an. Also x mess. in New Elvet, of the prior,
as of burgage tenure,
three suits at the barony court of Elvet, and 4s. 11d.
ad hostillar. pro land male.
Ao 2o Joh. ep. &c. cor. R. de Laton Mil. esc. in co. Dun.—
[Here we observe a line of distinction p'ainly drawn between the barony tenure and the burgage tenure; the burgage tenure being in New Elvet.]
The declaration and directions of me J. Cock, cl. v. of St Oswald's, Durham, now deprived.—He sets forth, that by his will, 27 May, 1701, he had given to certain persons therein named, 600l. in trust, and declares the trust to be to purchase freehold lands and tenements therewith; and to pay the produce thereof to the minister and church-wardens, to lay out yearly 2l. 10s. for bibles, common prayers, whole duty of man, explanation of the creed, and such like, to be distributed among the poor inhabitants. To apply 5l. in physic and other relief for the sick poor; 5l. a year for cloaths for poor widowers or widows, or other poor housekeepers, and 5l in money; 4l. to teach indigent children to read, spin, knit, and sew; 6l. for setting out yearly one boy, being the son of an inhabitant, and the surplus to be applied to the like purposes. A table of which charities is directed to be written and read by the minister once a year. With directions for keeping the trust subsisting by election of trustees, and for keeping a book of account, &c.
: New Elvet is narrower, rises with a steep ascent, and has many ancient buildings. The gardens of each are beautiful; those of the former inclining to the race-ground, having a view of Pelaw wood, the river, and St Giles's: The others hanging on the banks of the river, and its principal edifices.
The church
ST OSWALD VICARAGE.
K. books 161.—Yearly tenths 1l. 12s.—Proc. ep. 7s.—Real value 160l.
VICARS.
Dolfinus, presbyter de Elvete, oc. circa, 1156
Mag. Ric'us de Coldingham, 1175, ob. 1198
Nicolaus, vic. de Elvete, 1230.
Joh'es de Derlington, 1266, vic. Northallerton
Radulphus, prior de Finchales
Vic. of St Oswald deprived 1283, and another collated the same year, names not obtained
Nich. de Bishopton, 1353
Will. de Lanchester, 1371
Rob. Ashburn, 1405
Will. Bosum, 1408, p' res. Ashburn
Tho. Raket, 1409. p. res. Bosum
Will. de Caton, 1411, p. res. Raket
Joh. Holderness, 1414, p. res. Caton
Will. Newton, p. res. Holderness, 1419
Will. Briscoe
Will. Doncaster, 1420, p. res. Briscoe
Joh. Lethom, 1435, p. res. Doncaster
Will. Newton, 1445
Joh. Pikering, 1472
Bertram Herbotell, 1485
Hugo S
ell, LL. D. 1486, rector of Haughton, 1470
Will. Appulby, A. M.
Tho. Farne, B. L. 4 Ap. 1498, p. m. Appulby
Chr. Werdale, LL. B. 1619
Anton. Bellasis, LL. D. 1533
Lanc. Thwaites, LL. B. 1534
Hugo Hutchinson, A. M. 7 May, 1550
Tho Pentland, cl. 23 Oct. 1562, p'depr. Hutchinson
Car. Moberley, cl. 21 Mar. 1574, p. m. Pentland
Jacob Calfhill, A. M. 28 Mar. 1593, p. m. Moberley
Rich. Snowdon, cl. 8 Jun. 1602, col. to the 1st stall in Carlisle
Joh. Browne, A. M. 15 Oct. 1622, res. 19 May, 1630
Joh. Scarth, deest dies mensis, 1631
Xtian Sherwood, A. M. 20 Dec. 1631, p. m. Scarth, rector of Bishopweremouth, 20 Jan. 1643
Holdsworth, an intruder, ejected for non-conformity
John Wood, A. M. 1662
John Cock, A. M. 19 Jul. 1673, p. res. Wood; deprived 1 Feb. 1689
Pexall Forster, A. M. 1690, p. dep. Cock; he resigned for Egglescliffe rectory 1711, and died 27 Feb. 1739
Tho. Rud, A. M. 1 Sep. 1711, p. res. Forster
Will. Forster, A. M. 24 Jan. 1725, p. res. Rud
Tho. Hayes, A. M. 1765, p. m. Forster
Chester ward book of rates.
Durham. Parish of St Oswald.
 
£.
s.
d.
Burnhall, Hallgarths, Relleye, Houghall, Finkley, two streets of ElVet, half of Bearpark, rectory of Elvet, king's rents, Broom. Estimated value
1284
2
6
Easington ward.
 
 
 
Shincliff, Butterby, and Southern-closes, Shincliff tithe, rents to Dr Dalton, Croxdale, vicarage. Estimated value
792
1
0
Chester ward. St Margaret's chapelry, Crosgate.
 
 
 
Houses, borough lands, Newton, &c. king's rent, Crosgate constablery, king's rent, St Margaret's rectory. Estimated value
1300
0
0
 
£. 3376
3
6
Grey's MSS.
This parish pays to the land tax, at 4s. p' pound
 
£.
s.
d.
Elvet borough
22
14
8
Elvet barony
59
4
8
Shincliff
46
14
8
Broom
15
0
0
Framwelgate
67
17
0
Crosgate
16
15
4
County rate's at 6s. 8d.
£.
s.
d.
3
5
7¾
1
15
3
0
14
0
2
13
6
0
11
6
The Dean and Chapter's rents.
 
£.
s.
d.
Shincliff tithes
0
10
0
Old Durham tithes
4
3
4
Broom tithes
1
0
0
Burnhall tithes
1
2
8
Bellasis tithes
0
5
0
Pruddoe
0
3
4
Hagghouse tithes
1
6
8
Harberhouse and Carrhouse tithes
1
5
4
Stotgate tithes
0
1
8
Hunterbanks tithes
0
3
4
Rectory of St Oswald
12
0
0
Rectory of St Margaret
12
13
4
Coal mines in Bellasis
0
10
0
Ditto in Finkaley
0
10
0
Ditto Baxterwood
1
0
0
Shincliffe
38
11
2
Borough of Elvet
15
19
0
Barony of Elvet
19
11
0
South-street
10
3
6
Crosgate
17
19
10
Chilton pool
1
3
0
Coddesby
3
1
8
Little Coddesby
0
8
0
Clock mill
3
13
4
Framwelgate
9
9
4
Mills
9
6
8
Scaltock mills
10
13
4
Kelley
2
5
10
Aldingridge
10
2
4
Beaurepare
0
8
0
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population in this parish from 1660 to 1679
639
156
747
1760 to 1779
872
289
1260
Increase
233
133
513
Number of burials in the last year 80.—Computed number of inhabitants 2400.
stands in the center of a very large yard or burial ground, and having been built of stone subject to decay, is in most parts covered with rough-cast and lime: It is of such antiquity, that we find one Dolfinus mentioned as priest there in 1156. This is a regular edifice, having two side ailes of a similar form: The length of the nave is twenty-nine paces, the middle aile is eight paces wide, and the side ailes six paces each: It is supported on pillars, five in each row, three to the east are round, and two to the west octagonal, light, and of a good height; the capitals ornamented with rolls: The arches are circular: The arch which supports the tower, and that which opens the chancel, are pointed: The upper windows of the nave are regular, five on each side, with elliptic arches: The sout haile is lighted by five side windows, three are east of the door, and two to the west, and there is a window at each end, all with pointed arches: The north aile has but three side windows, two to the east of the door, with elliptic arches, and one to the west, and a window at each end with pointed arches. Those variances shew, at different periods, material alterations have been made in this fabric. The pulpit is placed against the first south pillar
EPITAPHS.
On a blue marble gravestone, near the belfry.
Hic requiescit a vitae hujus malis ad meliorem (ut spes est) vocatus JOANNES RUD, THOMAE hujus eccl'i
e vicar, Filius. Optimae spei juvenis; in flore ipso aetatis diuturno morbo consumtus et tandem (magno suorum dolore) extinctus Natus Nov. 12, MDCXCVIII. Ob. Jun. 30, MDCCXX.
On an ordinary stone, under the stairs of the gallery.
Hac de terra raptus Artis ille fabricae peritissimus Jacobus Clement, In Civitate Dunelmensi, Architectus Mortalitatis suae exuvias Ad Dei Judicis usq. Adventum Hic deposuit In spe beatae resurrectionis Respexit vota coelum animumq. corona xvij die Decembris, Anno D'ni 1690. Aetatis suae 49.
On an altar tomb, in the church-yard.
Hic jacet corpus Gulielmi Eden, Pharmacopolae Filii Henrici Eden, de Shincliff, M. D. qui mortuus est tertio die Aprilis, MDCCXII.
. In the south wall, under the windows, are four arches for tombs, but no effigies or inscription; neither is there any tradition for whom they were made. The font is a large stone bason, and there is a gallery over it which fills the whole west end of the nave. The roof is of wood, in the vault form, of excellent workmanship, jointed with rose knots, the rafters supported on brackets, ornamented with cherubs bearing shields, but without blazoning of arms. One of the knots, in the center of the arch, is painted blue, with an inscription in a circle in letters of gold, of the old black character:
Orate p' A. W. Catten, vicr.
We presume Catten caused the roof to be constructed in its present beautiful form, and find a Will. de Catten vicar in 1411. The church is well stalled, the chancel remarkably neat, and kept with that pious decency which is necessary to the solemnities of divine worship: It is 12 paces in length to the steps of the altar rails, and six wide: The altar is elevated six steps, and the space within the rails is upwards of 12 feet: The east window consists of four lights, under a pointed arch; there are three windows on the north side, and four on the south, some of which are modern: Behind the table, and on each side, it is wainscotted, painted, and gilded; and below the rails, the chancel is regularly stalled in the cathedral form with oak, having a large seat at each side of the entrance gate. The roof is flat and stuccoed. The vestry room is also very neat. There is much broken painted glass in the windows, but no figure perfect. Against the second pillar, chained to a desk, is "The defence of the apology of the church of England," with the sermon preached at Paul's cross, by the bishop of Sarum, 1560, and other curious tracts. In the tower is a set of six musical bells. The vicarage house is sweetly situated at the north entrance into the church-yard, on the banks of the river.
The parish of St Oswald
Boundaries of the parish of St Oswald, 1344.
Quod incipiendo ad novum pontem Dunelm. & procedendo versus orientem & Molendinum de Scaletoke miln circa & juxta Were fines & limites dicte parochie Sancti Oswaldi se ostendunt usq. ad oppositum rivuli decurrentis inter Pellow & pomarium S'ci Egidii & descendentes in pred aquam Were & extunc procedendo citra & juxta rivulum pred. usq. ad parvum pontem qui vocatur Gillybridge, sic postea circumcundo campum & territoria villae veteris Dun. usq. Whiteburn, & sic procedendo versus austrum usq. moram inter Swerrington & Shinklick extunc procedendo p' exteriores extremitates camporum & territoriorum villarum de Shinkliff, Croxdail, Bewhame, & Sunderland, cum pertin. earundem descendendo usq. ad pontem & aquam de Broom, & subsequenter procedendo infra & juxta aquam de Broom versus occidentem usq. ad aquam de Deverness (que est marchia inter parochias ecclesiarum de Brancepeth & S'ti Oswaldi) et extunc procedendo citra & juxta aquam & rivulum de Deverness usq. ad Middlewood p' exteriores extremitates camporum & territoriorum villarum de Relley, Broom, & Aldingrige sic procedendo extunc usq. manerium de Bearpark al's Beurepaire ac villas de Whitton & Newton cum pertin. earundem. Et sic extunc procedendo versus boream Herberhouse usq. le Blackburn, ubi est marchia inter parochias ecclesiaram Cestrie & S'ti Oswaldi. Et adhuc sic procedendo & redcundo usq. aquam Were, circumcundo parcum de Franklaine inter & juxta aquam Were usq. veterem pontem Dunel, & adhuc usq. novum pontem prout aqua Were currit ex una parte duntaxat.
Randal's MSS. p. 194.
lies in the deanry of Chester, from which it is distant about seven miles; being a Peculiar belonging to the dean and chapter of Durham, it pays no procurations to their official, or to the archdeacon of Durham: Since the year 1660, no churches exempt from archidiaconial jurisdiction, and subordinate to the dean and chapter of Durham, have paid any procurations to the official. This church is dedicated to the royal Saint Oswald.
There were two chantries in this church: One dedicated to St John the Baptist and St John the Evangelist, annual value 12l. 9s. 4d. was founded by Rich. de Elvet, cl. John de Elvet, cl. and Gilbert de Elvet. Walter, bishop of Durham, granted them licence, dated the 5th of June, 1402, to erect a chantry of one chaplain, at the altar of St John the Baptist and St John the Evangelist, that they, their ancestors and heirs, might be prayed for, and that lands and rents of the annual income of ten marks might be given to the chaplain and his successors for ever: Accordingly the manor of Edderacres
Rot. Skirlaw, No 103. A disclaimer of right to Edderacres, from Tho. Coke, of Thorp, juxta Easington and Johanna his wife, Margaret and Eliz. de Edderacres, 20 Oct. 1405.
Rot. Skirlaw, No 5. Licence dat. 26 April, 1403.—
Randal's MSS.
with its appurtenances, a messuage in Fleshewergate in the borough of Durham, two messuages in the borough of Elvet, and one messuage in Old Elvet described to be near the cemetery of St Oswald, all which were of the real value of 6l. 10s. were conveyed over to the chaplain and his sucessors for ever, by the bishop's consent, the 26th of April, 1403
Chaplains.
Will. de Fisheburn, cap. & custos primus oc. 20 Oct. 1405.—Chr. Aslabie, 1505.—Ed. Popley, the last incumbent, had a yearly pension of 6l. 13s. 4d. which he received in the year 1553.—In 1537, the advowson of this chantry was granted by Chr. Danbye, knt. one of the heirs of Gil. Elvet, for the next turn only, to Edw. Tetsorth and Geo. Smyth. This grant, I suppose, never took effect. —
Randal's MSS. — Reg. Tunstal, p. 28.
. The other chantry was dedicated to St Mary the Virgin
The dean and chapter pay a rent to the Duke of Leeds for this chantry's lands.
We find a chantry of the holy rood named, val. p' ann. 3l. 10s.—Also a chantry of St Oswald.—
Rot. Skirlaw, No 5.
, annual value 4l. Walter, bishop of Durham, granted his licence, dated the 20th of September, 1392, to John Sharp and Wm de Middleton, chaplains, to give two messuages with their appurtenances in Elvet, of the yearly value of 12s. to Alan Hayden, chaplain, custos of the blessed Mary's chantry in this church, to be held by him and his successors for ever, for their better support and maintenance
Alanus de Hayden, cap. oc. custos 20 Sep. 1392.—Rob Ellison, oc. 1501.—
Randal's MSS.
Edwardus d. g. rex. Inspeximus cartam quam venerabilis Pater Anth. Dunelmensis epus fecit Johi ville de Dunolm. in haec verba, &c. &c. Nov'it universitas v'ra nos dedisse &c. Jo'hi ville de Dunolmo p' homagio & s'vitio suo, &c. Et quatuor decem acre juxta hospitale S'ci Leonardi de Dunelmo, in p'ochia S'ci Oswaldi regis, &c. Ao 1292.—
Or. penes Tho. Gyll,
Esq
.
There was an hospital dedicated to St Leonard, in this parish; but who was the founder, what was the constitution, or the time of its building, remain unknown: It is not named in the Monasticon, or any other authorities before us, save those of the church of Durham. We are led to conjecture that this hospital stood at Beautrove or Butterby, as that manor is tithe-free, and situated near the medicinal springs hereafter noted.
Adjoining to the south wall of the church-yard, is a field, called the Anchorage, (or Anchoritage, Hermitage, or Hermit's close) and adjoining thereto is a field called the Palmer's (or Mendicant's) close; but we have met with no evidence relative to a hermitage here.
From the south-west corner of the church-yard you enter upon those beautiful natural scenes which border the river. A walk is laid open, and kept in order for the recreation of the public, at the charge of the dean and chapter, whose benevolence on this and various other occasions, demands the warmest acknowledgments. Mr Pennant, speaking of the banks, says, they
are covered with wood, through which are cut numbers of walks, contrived with judgment, and happy in the most beautiful and solemn scenery. They impend over the water, and receive a most venerable improvement from the castle and ancient cathedral, which tower far above.
The banks are steep, and cloathed with forest trees; in several parts the rocks break forth, where venerable oaks are suspended: The river, with a pure and tranquil stream, glides at the bottom of the hill, reflecting the noble objects which crown her banks: Here the opening valley pours forth a rivulet, and there the solemn dell, with Nature's wildest beauties, yawns with broken rocks, which yield the living fountain from their lips, whilst each brow is crowded with bending oaks, whose naked talons and twisted arms rival each other in grotesque figure. You see the towers of the cathedral rising sublimely from the wood, and lifting their solemn battlements to the clouds; and beyond those the turrets of the castle, on their rocky base; whilst on the other hand, the houses of South-street are stretched along the summits of hanging gardens: In front is an elegant new bridge of three arches, through the bows of which, at the first distance, are seen a fine canal of still water, with a mill; at the second distance, Framwelgate bridge, of two elliptic arches; and through the bows of the second bridge, the pleasant villa of
Crook Hall
Crokhogh.
Johannes de Kirby tenet Villam de Crokhough & C. Aer. Terrae & Bosc. per servic. sorin. redd. ijs.— Et dim. Acr. apud Stokerley quond'm Petri del Croke & redd. iiij d.—
Hatfield's Survey.
, with the rising grounds behind it. This prospect, perhaps, is not to be equalled in the environs of any city in the known world. On turning about, you have a view not less pleasing for its simplicity; you command the walk before noted, with a fine bend of the river, forming a crescent; the banks richly cloathed with wood, and crowned with the church of St Oswald. This walk is much frequented, and deservedly has the applause of every traveller. We present to the reader two plates of those favourite views on the banks.
The New Bridge was erected in 1781, at the expence of the dean and chapter, by Mr Nicholson their architect: It is upon a beautiful modern plan, the arches semicircular, with a balustraded battlement. There was formerly a narrow bridge near this place for horses to pass, which was carried away by the floods in 1771
At this bridge there happened a remarkable accident: A Mr Dalston of the Cothamhall-garth family, forced his horse over the battlements, in the dark, and was killed; he was passing the bridge on return from a country visit with a large company, and though in the midst of them, was missed by none till they arrived at the house where he was to lodge.
An account was given of the stood in 1771, in the public prints. The waters were eight feet ten inches higher at Durham than ever known before.
: The accident proved fortunate for the public, as it occasioned the present handsome structure
See the plate.
to be erected, which being of a suitable width, the chapter permit gentlemen's carriages to pass thereon, without toll.
FRAMWELGATE BRIDGE, seen upon this view, has one pier and two elliptic arches, of ninety feet span, so flat as to be constructed on the quarter section of a circle, calculated to suit the low shores on each side: The masonry is plain, but excellent, as is proved by its age; it was built by bishop Flambard, has stood near seven hundred years, and is perhaps the finest model of bridge-building, of that antiquity, in Britain. A gateway tower which stood on the city end of the bridge, was removed of late years for the conveniency of carriages, which have encreased amazingly in number within this century. Bishop Bainbrigg granted to prior Castel and the convent, all the waste land between this bridge and Elvet bridge, reserving certain privileges to him and his successors and their tenants
Rot. B. Bainbrigg, No 61, dat. 28 Sep. 1508.—
Randal's MSS.
Carta Richi de Kellawe epi, de libera piscaria a ponte de Elvet usq. ad vet. pontem—
Rudd's MSS.
; and bishop Kellow granted them the fishery.
CROOK HALL, which we mentioned in the preceding page, took its name from a family of Crook who settled there in the times of king Edward II. and III. they having disused the name of Sidgate manor, its ancient title. In the time of Edward III. it became the possession of Billingham, of Billingham, who held it for many ages; and we find by the proceedings on an elegit, in 1651, this was the estate of Thomas Billingham, and therein it is mentioned as being the capital house of the manor of Sidgate
Mickleton's MSS
. The dean and chapter have a yearly payment out of the lands of Crook hall of 53s. 4d. for tithes
Vide lease to Edward Gregory, relative to St Margaret's chapel.—We find in the parish reg. of St Margaret, a numerous race of the Billingham family from 1559 to 1661.
PEDIGREE OF BILLINGHAM, AND CROOKHALL. Blazon of arms.—Arg. three bars and canton gules; on the latter lion pass. of the field.
Cuthbert Billingham.
Elianor, d. of Rich. Hutton, of Hunwick.
Ralph.
Isabel, d. of J. Claxton, of Old Park.
John
M. 1st. Alicia, d. of Ra. Claxton, of Winyard.
Ralph. Aet. 28 An. 1575.
Richard.
William.
Second wife, Elizabeth, d. of Rog. Swinburne, of Eglingham, Northumberland.
Margaret.
John.
Margery.
Ann.
Cuthbert,
Harleian MSS. No 1540.
Haec arma inveniuntur in eccl'ia de Egglescliffe juxta Yarum in com. Dunolm. in orientali foenestra ubi sit mentio Tho. Bellingham, et Anne uxoris suae qui idem faenestram fecerunt et d'ca arma supra ponuntur caput dicti Thom. cujus imago subtus cernitur sicut et conjugis suae & liberor. &c.—
Flower's visit.
.
Park-keepers have been appointed by patent for Frankleyn for many ages
After the patent of park-keeper of Frankleyn wood, dated 15 Oct. 1627, there follows an entry, setting forth the rights of the park-keeper. Confirm. 16 Oct. an. super script.—
Sig. R. Dunelm. Timoth. Comyn.
De forestariis & parcariis epor Dun. de Frankland.
Pro vita feod 30 s. 4 d. & forestarius in Middlewood feod 6 s. 8 d. (Nevil) feod 57s. Ruthal.
Mickleton's MSS.
.
At the distance of half a mile from Crook Hall is NEWTON HALL, one of the seats of Sir Henry George Liddell, bart. The situation is lofty and beautiful, commanding a fine prospect of the city and adjacent country: It is a handsome modern house, sheltered with plantations, and environed with rich meadow lands. Newton is named among those tenements, which, the monastic writers tell us, the bishops yielded up to the earls of Northumberland, to enable them by their issues, the better to prosecute the wars of those times; which, when once severed from the church, were refused to be restored, and in time became lay fees: But afterwards, when the See was settled at Durham, the church was reinstated in all its ancient possessions. By the Boldon book
Newtona. Willielmus quondam abbas de burgo tenet Newtona juxta Dunelm. de accomodatione et Elemosina d'ni episcopi & reddit pro medietate dominij quam Ricardus Ingeniator tenuit j Marcam.
Radulphus Clericus tenet in eadem villa quatringinti acr. tam de terra quae fuit Roberti Tit, quam de assartis quae episcopus ei dedit i
Escambium pro duabus Bovatis de Midilham pro xid. set quietus est de hoc redditu. dum est in servitio d'ni episcopi.—
Bolden Buke.
Johannes Heron chev. tenet villam de Newton juxta Dunolm. per servic. forin. & redd. cvjs. viijd.
Haeres Will'i de Kirkenny tenet x acr. super Kyowlawe & redd. per ann. ad fest. S. Cuthb. in Sep. 1 lb. Cumin.
Terrae Scaccarij. Heredes Will'i de Kirkenny tenent, &c. Terrae Novi Vasti, &c.
Will's Bowes, chev. ten. xi. acr. terrae libere quond'm Roberti Scriptoris, vocat Fyngall & redd. vs.
Cum multis aliis.—
Hatfield's Survey.
we learn the abbot of Peterborough had Newton by agreement and free alms of the bishop; and that Radulphus Clericus held certain lands there, as well the estate of Robert Tit, as what he had of the bishop, in exchange for lands in Middleham. Bishop Pudsey granted Newton to Roger de Reding, (who afterwards appears to have taken the name of Roger de Newton) under a reserved rent of eight marks of silver: It soon afterwards was part of the possessions of the ancient family of Bowes, for bishop Bury, by his deed, dated in 1337, rehearsing several conveyances, confirms to Adam de Boughes the several lands therein named, for the twentieth part of a knight's fee, and 20s. 1d. rent payable at the bishop's exchequer. In 1345, bishop Hatfield also confirms the same; and in 1447, bishop Nevil, by inspeximus of all the former instruments, confirms the several premisses to William Bowes
Nevil, No 72.—
Randal's MSS.
. In bishop Bury's time we see Nicholas Scriptor in possession of sixty acres
inter Petariam de Newton & Aldnewton,
held
in capite
by service and fealty, and 5s. rent payable at the bishop's exchequer in Durham, and 13s. 4d. to John de Akeley, and 6s. to Alice, the widow of Rich. de Belle, for life
Inq. p. m. Ao 2o R. Bury, ep. co
. vic. in pleno com. Dun.
. By bishop Hatfield's survey it is stated, that John Heron,
esq
was in possession of Newton
per servic. forin
Forinsecum Servitium.
That is such service whereby a mean lord holdeth over of another without the compass of his own see.
Bro. tit. Tenures,
fo. 251, No 12 and 28. Kitchin, so. 209. Or else that which a tenant performeth either to his own lord, or to the lord paramount out of his see. Of these services Bracton speaketh thus:
Item. sunt quaedam servitia, quae dicuntur
forinseca,
quamvis sunt in carta et de feoffamento expressa et nominata, et quae ideo dici possunt
forinseca
quia pertinent ad dominum regemet non ad dominum capitalem, nisi cum in propria persona prosectus fuerit in servitio, vel nisi cum pro servitio suo satisfecerit domino regi quocunque modo et siunt incertis temporibus cum casus et necessitas evenerit et varia habent nomina et diversa: Quandoq. enim nominantur forinseca; large sumpto vocabulo quoad servitium domini regis; quandoq scutagium; quandoq. servitium domini regis et ideo
forinsecum
dici potest, quia sit et capitur soris sive extra servitium quod sit domino capitali.
So that here we have a strong badge of the regalia, the bishop having the like service for this land, as the king would have out of the limits of this jurisdiction.
, and cvjs. viijd. rent. The heirs of William de Kirkenny had x acres called Kyowlawe, rendering a pound of cumin: And of the lands there termed lands of the exchequer, William Bowes,
esq
held 40 acres of freehold, formerly the right of the scribe called Fyngall, rendering 5s. besides him sundry other persons held lands of that tenure. By an inquisition taken on the death of Elizabeth the widow of Robert Bowes, it appears that she had dower assigned at Newton
Inq. p. m. 4, bishop Fordham.
. On the death of her heir Sir William del Bowes, we find he died seised
int. al's
of the capital messuage of Newton, with two hundred acres of land there, of the gift of the bishop
Inq. p. m. 12, bishop Skirlaw.—Inq. p. m. Matildis ux. Will'i Bowes, 15 bishop Langley.—Inq. p. m. Will'i Bowes Mil. 1 bishop Booth —Inq. p. m. Will'i Bowes, 9 bishop Booth.—Inq. p. m. 27 bishop Booth, Newton was then under an intail; and is described to consist of 20 mess and cccc. acres of land.
A mess. and 24 acres of land in Newton near Durham, held in cap. of Roger lord of Newton. Inq. p. m. Cuthbert son of John, Ao 10, Bury, cor. vic. in pleno Com. Dun.
. This estate continued in the family of Bowes till the fifth year of bishop Pilkington, when Geo. Bowes,
esq
obtained a licence to alien to Anth. Middleton. It afterwards became the estate of Thomas Blakiston,
esq
who conveyed it to Marmaduke Blakiston, clerk, one of the prebendaries of Durham, in the seventh year of bishop James
Cursitors Rolls.—
Rudd's MSS.
; and he sold it to the family of Liddell.
At the distance of two short miles from Newton stands
FINCHALE,
on the banks of the river Were. It was a place of some consequence in the early ages of the British church, for we hear of a synod being held here in the year 792
An. 792, synodus in Fynkhaul celebrata. Flores' Hist. Lel. Col. vol. iii. p. 38.
E libello de locis quibus S. in Angl. requiescunt Godricus anachoreta, Dunolm.—
Ibid.
, in the time of Higbald, bishop of Lindisfarn, for the purpose of regulating church discipline and manners: And it seems another synod was held here in the year 810
A. D. 810, synodus apud Pincanhale in Nordanhumbria 4 No. Sep. celebratur.—
Lel. Col. vol. iii.
Eodem anno, qui est tertius Cenwlsi praedicti Regis, synodus congregata est in loco qui appellatur Pincanhalth, praesidente Eanbaldo archep. Ebor.—
Ibid.
As this place (though hard to be known, the names in our ancient writers being so differently written) there was a synod held in 788.—Complete Hist. of Durh. p. 616.—Vide Saxon. Chron. p Gibson, 64.— 1288, hoc anno synodus coacta est in Northymbrorum terra apud Pincanhale 4 Non. Sept. Pincanheal, Pincanhale,
(F
or.)
Wincenhale,
(Hunt.)
Wincarheale, Phincanhal,
(Hoveden)
Pinchamhalch, Finchale,
(Westm)
vari
hujus loci appellatio apud historicos non aliunde orta est quam ex similitudine literarum Saxonicarum r. p. f. quae sive librarios qui ex ea descripserant exemplaria quibus usi sunt historici, sive ipsos etiam re rum gestarum scriptores in errorem traxisse videtur. hodie Finkley, in agro Dunelmensi ad ripam orientalem sluminis Were.
.
In the beginning of the twelfth century, St Godric, a hermit, sought this secluded situation for his devotions, mortifications, and severities, where he lived sixty-six years, and died in the year 1170. Soon after the hermit settled here, bishop Flambard granted to the monastery of Durham, in free alms, the hermitage of Finchale, with its waters, fishings, rights, and privileges, subject to Godric's life, who should hold of them; and after his death, that it might be the habitation of such of their brethren as they should appoint
Ex Archivis penes registri custodem Dunelm.—Vide Mon. Aug. vol. i. p. 512.—About the year 1118.
. Gul. Neubrigensis, gives a particular account of this man.
In cibo et potu, in verbo et gestu, homo simplicissimus, decente cum gravitate servare modum studuit. velox ad audiendum, tardus autem ad loquendum, & in ipsa locutione parcissimus.
The hermit erected a small chapel here, and dedicated it to St John the Baptist: Though he died in great agonies, this writer describes him
in vultu autem ejus mira quedam dignitas et decus insolitum visebatur
Ex Gul. Newbigensis Hist. lib. ii. cha. 20.
The Rev. Mr Lambe, of Durham, obligingly furnished the author with a translation of the history of St Godrie, from the old Latin edition. The general distaste which prevails against legendary and miraculous tales, obliges us to omit it.
. As to
FINCHALE ABBEY.
his way of life, take the same author,
Quem tandem post multam lustrationem inveniens, ibidem, cum sorore paupercula primum, & ea defuncta solus, multo tempore habitavit.
About the year 1180, bishop Pudsey granted a foundation charter for a cell at Finchale
Ex archivis penes registri custodem decani & capit. Dun.
Vide confirmationem cartarum cart. 3 Ed. 2, n. 21, et cart. 17 Ed. 2, n. 12.— Angl. Sac. vol. i. p. 724, 726. —Rot. cart. 9 Joh. m. 6, n. 54.—Cart. 14. Ed. 1, n. 40 p' xxs. anni reddit. e molendino de Emeldon.—Pat. 12, Ed. 3, p. 1, m. 19, de grangia de Eshwell.
, by which it appears two monks of Durham, Reginald and Henry, had possessed themselves of Godric's hermitage, and had some allowances made them for their support. Henry, the bishop's son, was about to found a religious house at Backstanford
Near Wolsingham.
, which the convent of Durham did not approve, being esteemed an intrusion on their rights; an agreement soon took place on the following terms; the convent granted to Henry, Finchale, with its appurtenances, to the intent that he should build a church there, and institute a convent of monks; thus he was induced to transfer his works of piety to this retirement, where he erected proper accommodations for a colony of Benedictines, chosen out of the convent of Durham, over whom was placed Thomas the sacrist, as prior, in the year 1196. This house received considerable augmentations by various pious donations
Inq. p. m. Isabella, ux. Joh'is de Birtley, d. s. of 3 mess. and 60 acres of land, in the vill. of Cokyn, held of the prior of Finchale by service of half a pound of cumin, &c. Ao 3d Walt. cp.
Copyhold books, H. Fox, p. 282.
Halm. ap. Wolsyngham, xxiiij Oct. Ao Tr. Rich. quinto.
Ad hac cur. ven. Joh'es Swayn, Monach Pr. de Fynkall & cep. de d'no j parcel ter. de vasto d'ni voc. Dobynson Grene, &c. hend eid Pr. & succ. suis Pr. in jur. sc'd'm cons. cur. redd. inde, &c.
Omnib's, &c. Stephus rector eccl'ie de Elwick, sal. Nov'it, &c. me dedisse, &c Deo & b'ae Marie & S'co Joh'i Baptiste & S'co Godrico & Radulpho Pr. & Monachis de Tinkhale Deo servantib's totam terra. q'm hui in villa de Thorpe cu'm oib's, &c. ad sustentaco'em hospitalitatis & triu. paup'u. qui cotidie imp'petum. ib
ad mandatu. recipientur, &c. Test. &c. About the year 1200.
E. MSS penes Tho. Davison de Blakiston, arm.—
Randal's MSS.
Omnib's, &c. Nigellus de Rungeton, &c. Nov'it, &c. me concessisse, &c. Deo, &c. Tres. Bovat. terrae cum p'tin. suis in villa de Thorpe, quas Steph's de Elwic eid dedit, &c.—
Ib'd'm.
Omnib's, &c. Joh. Fil. Galfridi, &c. Nov. me concessisse, &c. Deo, &c. duas. Bovat. terrae in villa mea de Thorpe, &c.—
Ib'd'm.
Joh'es de Ketton. &c. Nov'it, &c. me co'cessisse, &c. Deo. Tres Bovat. terrae in villa de Thorpe, &c. faciendo inde forinsecu. s'vitin qua'tu. p'tinet ad tanta' terram in cad villa p' om'i s'vitio, &c.—
Ib'd'm.
Gaufrid de Thorpe, &c. sciatis me concess. Deo, &c. duas bovat terrae in villa mea de Thorpe, &c salvo loco meo hiis testib's, &c.—
Ib'm.
Robert de Minstertun gave all his land in the vill. of Thorpe, except liberty in the lords woods.—Robert de Thorpe confirmed the lands given by Rob. de Minsterton, Gilbert de Eden, &c.—John de Thorpe confirmed to the prior and monks all their lands and tenements in Thorpe, as well of the gift of his father, as of John de Ketton. (salvo bosco meo) Dated about 1200.—John de Ketton gave two ox gangs of land in Thorpe, which W. de Stodfald held.—Galfrid, the son of John de Thorpe, confirms his father's grant.—Cecilia, the daughter and heiress of Walter de Shotton, quits claim to lands in Thorpthewles, with an obligatory writing and oath for the performance of her covenant.—John Warde, of Thorpthewles, released a rent due to him out of lands granted to Finchale by his ancestors.—And Robert, the son of William, lord of Thorpthewles, confirms the gifts of John de Eglisclyree, called Gylett, Alan Clerk, of Sherburn, and his father, in the same hands.—
Randal's MSS.
.
When the church and other edifices at Finchale were erected, the remains of which are yet standing, it is not possible to determine with precision, no evidence thereof being found in the archives of the dean and chapter: From the order of building seen in some parts of the ruins, much may be attributed to Henry the bishop's son; but other parts appear of older date. The solemn remains are situated in a very deep vale, on the banks of the river, where the stream making a sweep, forms a little level plot, which is almost covered with the buildings; sheltered to the north by the lofty rocks and hanging woods of Cocken, and on every other side by steep hills. The river flows swiftly over a rocky channel; and the murmuring of the waterfalls is re-echoed from the groves and cliffs. The present buildings are much disunited, so that it is impossible to trace all the ancient offices of this religious mansion.
At the entrance into the church, at the west end, on the right-hand, is a square vault, the roof of which is groined from the angles and the side walls, and supported in the center by a short octagonal pillar: There was an aqueduct to this place, and it had an upper apartment. The church, though small, is in the form of a cross; the gateway, at the west end, has a pointed arch of several members, rising from small round columns or pilasters, with plain capitals: The nave is twenty-eight paces in length, and seven in width. In the center of the cross it appears there has been a tower or spire, supported on four circular pillars, very short and heavy, exceeding even part of Durham cathedral for disproportion: The pillars are so massive, that one of them contains a turpike staircase, which led to the superstructure; they form a square of equal sides, twenty-one feet from pillar to pillar, the capitals of an octagonal form: The center had a dome or vaulted roof, with intersecting ribs, and on the east side one pointed arch remains. In the etching given in Stevens' Monasticon, drawn by King, a short octagonal spire of stone is placed on the tower. On the north side of the nave, are four pillars supporting pointed arches; the pillars round, with capitals formed of double rolls, constructed of a durable stone, and entire; the south side is close, a long cloister or passage running on the outside to communicate with the south limb of the cross. The north and south limbs of the cross are exactly equal in length and width, being twelve paces long and seven broad: They are very ill lighted; one great window in the south limb, towards the east, being the chief: Indeed it appears that those parts have been added to the original structure, or rebuilt; as they are in no wise similar to the other parts in masonry or materials. The choir is remarkable; from the east window, ten paces in length, it is inclosed with high dark walls, and from thence to the cross, being nine paces, (the whole nineteen paces long) are two round columns on each side, similar to those in the nave, bearing three pointed arches: The east window has been sive paces wide, (as appears from the measurement of the sole, for all the rest is gone) with outward buttresses, ornamented with stone pinnacles, one of which on the south side still remains. It is very singular that windows of a modern date have been placed between the pillars, to fill up the arches, formed of a yellow and perishable kind of stone; which work now separates itself from the arches: The yellow stone has been won from the bed of the river, and is of the same kind with those of which the out-buildings are constructed; the columns and arches are of a bluer nature, and in no wise injured by time; they seem to be of the Normandy stone, much like the columns and castings of several of the ancient castles. Allowing this observation to be just, we should be apt to conjecture these columns and arches originally divided the center from a side aile; but on strict search, no foundations or other work was discovered which could encourage this idea: If there were no side ailes, then this was a fabric of singular construction; for it will follow, that the nave and part of the choir were open to the air on the sides, like a cloister: There is something similar in the abbey of Furness, in Lancashire, where a part on the north side is open. The founder, in imitation of the severities of St Godric, might think it expedient to deprive the monks of indulgence, and leave the church open to the air; but in after ages, when the religious professed more outside shew than real zeal, yielded to the fascinations of luxury, and studied gratifications and softness, they closed the arches with windows, made covered passages, and transformed this building to its present model: As its solenm beauties are much admired, if the windows were displaced, and the columns and arches laid open, it would greatly improve its appearance, and render it still a finer objet from the walks of Cocken.
The rest of the monastic buildings are very ragged and ruinous: In one part a bow window is projected from a pilaster in the wall, and seems to have appertained to some chief apartment. The hall or refectory has been a handsome edifice; it stands on the south side of a court, nearly of equal sides, about twenty-six paces every way; is twelve paces long, and eight wide, within the walls; having five regular windows to the south, and four to the north; in the staircase or entrance is a large window to the south: The vault underneath is supported by a row of four octagonal pillars in the center, without capitals, from whence the groins are sprung; the pilasters in the walls and angles are capitalled; the ribs are of hewn stone, meeting in points, and the interstices of the vault wedged with thin stones; the whole a fine piece of architecture. This vault is lighted by six small windows to the south, and is not above eight feet in height to the crowns of the arches.
It is said that St Godric, and also Henry de Puteaco, or Pudsey, lie interred here; but the floor of the church is covered with ruins, and grown over with brambles and weeds, so as to prevent, without much labour, a search for their tombs
Henricus de Puteaco, son to Hugh Puteacus, was founder of Finkeshal priorye, on Were, two mils benethe Duresme, and there is he buried, and also S. Goodelak the heremite.—
Lel. Itin. vol. viii. p. 42.
Tanner's Notitia, p. 114. English Monast. Stevens', p. 63.—Compleat Hist. of Duth. p. 616.—Lambard's Dict. p. 115. A celle of St Cuthbertes monasterie, &c wheare Goodrike (whose pilgrimage was profitable to barren women) lived the life of an eremite. It was valued in the recordes at 123 poundes yearlye.
.
The revenues of this house, 26th king Henry VIII. were valued at 122l. 15s. 3d. according to Dugdale, and 146l. 19s. 2d. Speed. At the dissolution it consisted of a prior and eight monks
So the Corpus Chris. Col. Cant. MSS.—But Leland's Itin. vol. vii. p. 5, saith xiii monks. Quere, whether the first numeral should not have been v.
PRIORS OF FINCHALE.
Thomas, sacrist of Durham, first prior.
Radulphus, t'pe Phil. ep Dun. circa Ao 1200.
Rob. de Stichilie. El. bishop 1260.
Rob. de Insula. El. bishop 1274.
Galfridus de Buredon, in e'r'o purif. 1308.
Henr. de Stamford, 1316.
Henr. de Castro.
Tho. de Lunde, S. T. P. men. Oct. 1333.
Joh. de Beryngton, 18 May, 1384.
Will. Poklyngton, 21 Mar. 1413.
Will. Bawy, 4 Jan. 1437.
Rich. Bell, S. T. B. 20 Oct. 1464.
Will. Bryden, 5 Jul. 1476.
Joh'es Swayn, 24 Oct. 1499.
In Willis's Mitred Abbies Chr. Harpworth is said to be prior Ao 1534.—But this is presumed to be an error.
. The manor and cell of Finchale were part of the possessions restored to the church on the foundation of a dean and chapter, by king Henry's deed of endowment.
Finchale being part of the prebendal corps lands, the beauty of the retirement induced Mr Spence
Installed the 24th of May, 1754.
to make a good room in the farm-house near the abbey, with a bow-window overhanging the murmuring streams of the Were, and looking upon the sweet sequestered walks of Cocken, but turning its back upon the venerable ruins.
The pleasant village of SHINCLIFF lies within a mile of Durham, sheltered by hills on every side, except towards the south-west, where it opens to the river Were, with rich meadow lands. Bishop Carilepho granted it with other lands to the convent of Durham
Mon. Angl. vol. i. p. 45.—Vol. i. of this work, p. 134.
. There was an ancient bridge over the river at this place, which, in bishop Fordham's time, was gone to decay; collections have been made for repairing it, but the money being embezzeled or misapplied, a commission of account issued, dated 14th of January, 1385
Commissio de com'po emendaco's Pontis de Shinkle, audiend. & terminand. Rot. Fordham, Sch. 8. No 3.—
Randal's MSS.
Commissio ad inquirend. de reddit. ad rep'aco'em pontis Dun. & Shincliff concess. Rot. B. Hatfield. Sch. 1. No 4. in dorso. Dat. 2 Mar. 1370.—
Ib'm.
Vide preceding account of Elvet bridge.
: It seems the measure was ineffectual, for his successor, bishop Skirlaw, erected a stone bridge of three arches, which stood till the year 1752, when the violent flood on the 7th of February undermined and threw down one of the piers, which carried with it two of the arches; the bridge was restored the following summer at the public expense
An engraving was published from a drawing of the ruins made by the author, but the plate falling into
roper hands, was destroyed.
. It is said Shincliff was the birth place of bishop Sever, abbot of St Mary's, York. We find the family of Aslakby had possession here in bishop Langley's time. It has been the seat of the family of the Hoppers of late years, whose present representative is
Robert Hopper Williamson,
esq
Near this village
William Rudd,
esq
built his villa, seated in a delightful retirement, commanding a solemn view of the sequestered vale, with its hanging woods, which form a beautiful amphitheatre; a scene excellently adapted to study and contemplation.
On the other side of the river stands
Houghall,
part of the prebendal lands of the church. The manor house was built by prior Hotoun, who, notwithstanding the embarrassments he suffered under the persecuting spirit of bishop Bek, completed this and other considerable pious works. No certain etymology of the name of this place is obtained; from its situation, in a low and watry plain, we may adopt the word
hough,
which in this country has acceptation for a plain by the side of the river; which is sufficiently descriptive of the scite of this place. There was in the cathedral church, as before noted, an altar called Howall's altar, erected perhaps by some benefactor who bestowed this place on the church; or indeed it might be called Hotoun's hall, from the prior who built it in the thirteenth century; the corruption to Houghhall seems a familiar one. The house has been moated round and otherwise fortified: Tradition says Sir Arthur Hazelrigge possessed it, and that Oliver lodged there for some time; it is certain it was refitted, and perhaps put into a state of defence by some of that party; the arms of Cromwell now remain on one of the mantle-pieces in the house.
At the distance of a mile to the south-west, but on the opposite side of the river, stands
BUTTERBY,
anciently written
Beautrove,
from its beautiful situation. The river Were runs almost round the chief part of the estate, the neck of land which divides the streams being only about two hundred yards wide. Here, it has been imagined, stood the ancient hospital of St Leonard; the founder and institution not now known. The lands are remarkably fertile; the river near the house falls swiftly over a rough channel, under high rocky shores and hanging woods: On the more distant side of the estate the river flows deep and slow, forming a canal a mile in length, where the adjacent lands make a considerable plain. There is not a sweeter rural scene in the whole county, unadorned and in simple nature, for art has not yet extended her hand hither, further than in the ordinary course of agriculture. As this place is remarkable for its beauty, so it is for natural curiosities; surrounded with the river, from the fissure of a rock, which lies about forty feet from the shore, flows a considerable spring of salt water, mixed with a mineral quality. The situation of this spring subjects it to a mixture of fresh water, so that it is difficult to know how much salt it contains in its purest state; on several trials it has yielded double the quantity produced from sea water. The shore for a considerable distance shews many ouzings, or small issues of salt water; from which circumstance, and by a dike or break of the rocks in the channel of the river, a little above the spring, it is presumed a rock or bed of salt might be won of some value: It has never been searched for; the family who lately possessed the estate, from a love of retirement and ease, neglected a trial. The spring is much resorted to in summer for its medical qualities; but as the well is not inclosed by any building, it is frequently overflowed by the river. This water is reputed to be an effectual remedy for a disease known among people employed in smelting and refining houses belonging to the lead works. Half a pint is sufficiently purgative for the strongest person. Within a few yards of the salt spring, on the opposite shore, is a fluent spring strongly impregnated with sulphur, without any vitriolic or other compound
We find the following account of this spring in Gibson's edition of Camden, which is transcribed almost literally from Baker's Chronicle.
The Spadacrene is between Butterby and Durham on Elvet moor.
A little below Branspeth, the Were has many huge stones in its channel, never covered but when the river is overflowed by rains: Upon these if you pour water, and it mix a little with the stone, it becomes brackish, a thing which happens nowhere else. Nay, at Butterby, a little village, when the river is shallow, and sunk from these stones in the summer time, there bursts out of them a reddish salt water, which grows so white and hard by the heat of the sun (as hath been thought) that they who live thereabouts use it for salt. But that the saltness itself proceeds not from the heat of the sun, is plain by experience, in that which is most saltish, and issues out of a rock, in as much as if all the water be laved out of the place, there immediately bubbles out of the body of the rock a water as salt as the former; and besides, the rock out of which it issues is a salt rock of a sparkling substance. On the other side of the Were, there is also a medicinal spring of strong sulphur; and above it, towards Durham, is a mineral water, of the vitriolic kind, upon which Dr Wilson wrote his Spadacrene Dunelmensis.
In Lowthorp's Abridgment of the Philosophical Transactions, vol. ii. p. 333, the following account is inserted, given by Mr Hugh Todd.
About a mile and a half out of Durham, on the north east side near Butterby, was lately discovered a medicinal spring, which is much frequented, and may be of great benefit to the country. It was found by workmen that dug in that place for coal. When they were twelve fathom and a half deep they discovered this treasure of natural physic. They then tried the rock about one hundred yards off, where they lost themselves much about the same depth, and instead of coal, discovered an excellent spring of clear water, which issues out of the hole their instruments made. These springs are in a deep gill or valley on the shore opposite to Butterby.
Ibid. vol ii. p. 351, p' Mr Todd.
At Saltwater Haugh, near Butterby, about a mild and a half from Durham, in the middle of the river Were. rises a salt spring. It is good to be seen and tasted only in the summer time, when the water is discharged all on one side of the channel, for in winter when the river is high it loses its salt in the fresh streams, so that they
e not perceivable. The water seems to bubble up equally in all parts of the channel for the space of fo
y
a
ds in length, and about ten in breadth. The filtest of all the springs issues out of the middle of a rock, the surface of which was manifestly saltish, and which in a hot day, as I was told, would be all covered over
a persect salt. I had all the water laved out of the place where it seemed to stagnate, and immedia
out of the body of the rock there bubbled up water as salt as the former. It was as high as any brine can be and though but little in quantity, in comparison of the fresh river, yet of that force to give a brackishness to the
ca
one hundred yards below. Those that have boiled this brine say, that it affords a great quantity
baysalt, n
so palatable, yet as useful as ordinary salt is. It tinges all the stones with a red colour. The
ea is eight miles off where nearest.
.
The prospect from an adjacent head-land, called Croxdale Scar, is deservedly admired by every visitant: It commands an extensive view of the valley towards the west, with the channel of the river for several miles through a country highly cultivated. Over a fine plain, at the distance of a mile, are seen Sunderland bridge of four arches, with Croxdale, the beautiful seat-house of William Salvin,
esq
on the left, and Burnigill on the right; the scene animated by passengers on the great southern turnpike road: Beyond the bridge the vale narrows and winds towards the south, diversified by woodlands, cottages, and inclosures: To the right you look down upon the vale of Butterby, belted round with the crystal waters of the Were, and the eye traces its varied shores, its rocks and sylvan scenes: Beyond which lies an extended valley, terminated by the village of Shincliff, and inclosed on every side with lofty forests.
The manor-house of Butterby stands in a pleasant garden, which, with the whole offices are inclosed by a deep moat, walled round, and though now dry, is capable of being filled with water to the depth of 15 feet: The entrance is by a strong gateway and bridge. The secluded situa
ion of the house shuts it from distant prospects; but such as it commands are romantic and rural. In cleansing the moat some years ago, in a large stone trough were found a coat of mail, with a cap of chain work quilted in canvas, a halbert, breastplate and buckler: In an adjacent field, where it is supposed an ancient chapel stood, many stone coffins and holy water jars were dug up.
This is a manor and constablery of itself, free of all manner of tithes, paying a prescript rent of 1l. 13s. 4d. to the curate of Croxdale, at Midsummer.
Butterby was part of the ancient possessions of the Lumleys, of Lumley castle: Sir Marmaduke Lomeley held it, and from him it descended to Robert his son, who died seised thereof in the 36th year of bishop Hatfield, 1381, as appears by an inquisition taken at Durham, before Will. del Bowes, escheator: Ralph de Lumley was his brother and heir, and was possessed thereof at the time of his attainder, 1st king Henry IV. 1329; after which, in great bounty, the crown in the following year granted to Eleanor his lady, daughter of John lord Nevil of Raby, and sister of Ralph earl of Westmoreland, 20l. a year out of the duties of Hull, together with the manors of Beautrove and Stranton: Thomas, her eldest son, died possessed of the castle of Lumley, and manors of Stanley, Stanton, Ricklesden, and Beautrove, in the 5th Henry IV. leaving his eldest son Sir John, who was restored in blood in the thirteenth year of that reign. As we do not find Beautrove in any future inquisitions taken on the deaths of the Lumley family, we may conclude it passed as a marriage portion with Margaret, one of the daughters of Ralph Lumley, who married Sir John Clervaux of Croft, or otherwise sold into that family; for Elizabeth, the heiress of Clervaux, married Christopher Chaytor, and carried with her large possessions: And we find, in the 8th year of queen Elizabeth, this Christ. Chaytor was possessed of Beautrove, and suffered a recovery
Record of Homage 7 bishop Barnes.—Cursitors Rolls.—
Rudd's MSS.
thereof
in Cur. D'nae reginae apud Dunelm.
Had this estate come into the crown by the attainder of George Lumley, in the 29th king Henry VIII. we know of no grant of so early a date as to admit such limitations taking place in the Chaytors' family, as required a recovery being suffered, as before noted, to dock and defeat the same; the whole length of time being only, a period of twenty years. Nicholas Chaytor, of Croft, in the county of York,
esq
by his will, dated February 8, 1665, made several provisions out of this manor for his younger children, and subject thereto the estate descended to his eldest son Sir William Chaytor
PEDIGREE OF CHAYTORS OF BUTTERBY.
From the visitation of Wm Flower and R. St George, N. Ks. of A.
1575
and
1615. Arms. Party p' bend dauncette 3 cingroils pierced counterchanged.
John Chaytor, de Newcastel, mercator.
Christophorus Chaytor, de Butterby, mensor R. Eliz. pro com. Dunelm, Ao 1575.
Elizabetha filia Will. Clervaulx de Croft, postea haeres.
Margareta.
Joanna, ux Rad. Willey de Houghton, in Durham.
Hugo. ob.
. p.
Anthonius Chaytor, filius & haeres 1575. Aet. 28.
Margery, d. of W. Thornton, of Newton,
esq
Will. C
aytor. Francis d. of Sir James Bellingham.
Richard.
Thomas.
Christopher. 3 fil.
Thomas, 4 fil Registrary of dioc. Durh.
Jane, d. of Sir Nich. Tempest.
Henry, Aet. 8. 1615.
Nicholas.
Thomas.
Therononie.
Isabell.
Margaret.
Troth.
Mary.
Eliza. Beatrix.
. In the 6th year of king William III. 1695, an act of parliament was obtained, intituled, an act to vest certain lands of Sir William Chaytor, bart
St Oswald's.
On a mural monument at the east end of the north aile, upon a blue square stone, in golden capitals, under a coat of arms.
In obitum Christoferi Chaiter, de Butterbie armigeri qui obiit 17 Aprilis Anno D'ni 1592, anno aetatis suae 98.
Aspice quam subito volvuntur singula casu
Occidit heu inopum fautor p' tecta Butrobi
A Christo nomenq. ferens cognomine Chaiters
Hic custos pacis, custos suit ille registri:
Hic viduae causas egit, causas
que
pupilli
Hic regius terram signavit limite mensor
Fidus erat sidis, nullus
que
in pectore sucus
Omnibus et mitis, dictis suit ille facetus
Terra tegit cineres, mens vivit in aethere summo
En, gnatus natu minimus, nunc p'manet haeres
Condigni patris, nec non sua munia prestans
Haec tibi devinctus, scripsit monumenta Dethiceus.
. in Yorkshire and Durham, to be sold for payment of debts charged thereon, and to secure portions for younger children; by virtue of which the manor of Butterby was sold in 1713, to Thomas, John, and Humphrey Doubleday, sons of Robert Doubleday, then late of Jarrow, in this county, a Quaker family, under which purchase it soon after became the sole property of Humphrey, save one-third of the salt-springs reserved to the use of John Doubleday and his heirs. Humphrey's eldest son, Martin Doubleday, dying a bachelor, he devised the manor with his other estates, to his mother, who, by her will, devised the same upon trust to be sold; and it hath lately been purchased by Mr Ward of Sedgefield.
About a mile south of Butterby is
CROXDALE,
the seat of the family of Salvin
We find in the Cursitors Rolls, in the 15th year of bishop Skirlaw, a writ to Robert Coniers, esch. to make livery to Gerrard Salvin, son of Gerrard Salvin, of Hersewell, and Agnes his wife, of the manor of Croxdale, to which she was intitled as daughter and heir of Joan, late wife of William de Ressery deceased.—No such marriage appears in the pedigrees, which is remarkable, as this large possession came into the family by that means.
6th bishop James. Livery to Gerrard, son and heir of Gerrard Salvin.—
Rudd's MSS.
; an excellent house, placed on a lofty situation, and commanding a most beautiful prospect of the vale through which the river Were winds its course, stretching several miles towards the south-west; Sunderland bridge is in front, and the enlivened prospect of the great southern road with the passengers, at the agreeable distance of half a mile. It is bordered by extensive woods and plantations, and embellished with pleasure grounds and gardens in a good taste.
The first mention made of Croxdale in the records before us, is in bishop Langley's inspeximus, dated 1431
Rot L. Langley, No 14. Dat. 1431.—
Randal's MSS.
, of a grant of bishop Anthony Bek, dated 1299, whereby the prelate granted to Walter de Robiry, certain lands of Queryndon moor, extending to the fields of Croxdale; and also an inspeximus of Richard of Routhbery's grant of the same lands to John de Denum
Joh. de Denum ob. circa, 1326.
; another inspeximus of a grant from John de Denum to Richard de Routhbery for life, of the manor of Croxdale, with the before mentioned lands, by the service of a rose at the feast of St John the Baptist. In the 37th year of bishop Hatfield, the manor was in the possession of Robert de Whalton, who obtained licence to alien the same, with limitations to his issue
Rudd's MSS.
. In the 14th year of bishop Skirlaw, A. D. 1402, it appears by an inquisition, that the manor of Croxdale was in the hands of trustees, to the use of the heirs of Robert Tirwhit, held of the lord bishop
in capite,
by suit at three head courts.
In 1474, we find Croxdale was become the possession of the Salvin family, and that Gerard Salvin died seised of the manor
De terr. liberand. Gerardo Salvin. Rot. B. Booth, No 151.—Dat. 24 Jul. 1474.—
Randal's MSS.
St Oswald.
On a monument of white marble fixed to the north wall in the chancel. Prope hunc locum inhumatus est JARRARDUS SALVIN, de Croxdale in agro Dunelmensi armiger, vicesimus Primus (sine intermissione) ejusdem) Nominis fuit & loci. Jarrardum, filium Suum apparentem. strategum, illo Superstite, perduelliones & ribaldos, apud Northallerton In comitatu Eboracensi, pro rege Carolo primo demicantem, trucidebant, heredem tamen alterum reliquit Jarrardum. Subditus fuit fidelis, maritus indulgens, Pater providus, ex hujus vitae argastulo evasit decimo octavo die Januarij, 1663 Anno que Aetatis suae 74.
PEDIGREE. OF SALVINS OF CROXDALE.
Extracted from the before-mentioned visitation books, &c. with additions.
Arms. Arg. on a chief sab, a great T, between two mullets of the field. [
From a manuscript in the Harleian Collection,
1499.]
From a MS. composed by Mr Tho Bowes, of Bradley, (end copied by Mr Allan) he is said to be the son of Geo. Salvin, by Eliz. d. &c. of Peter de Mawley (Malolacu) with whom he had, and was seised of the barony of Ecton, Newbiggin, Isle Park, Cockwold-banks, Doncaster, Barse-Castle, Pocklington, Sutton, Southcotes, Stonneferry, and Bainton
Sir John Salvin, knight.
— d. of Grey, of Heton, in Northumberland. N. B. Bowes' MS. says d. Sir Rob. Constable, of Flamborough.
Thomas Salvin.
Mary, d. to the baron of Graystock.
Sir Rauff Salvin, mar. twice.
Elizabeth; d. of Hugh Hastings, of Fenwick, knt. first wife.
George Salvin.
Margaret, d. of Sir W. Bulmer, knight.
He had another wife, d. of Sir Ra. Ellerker.
Francis Salvin.
Margery, d. of Sir Ra. Evers, knight.
Ralph. So far that record goes.
4 daughters.
Mathew, 2 son.
William, 3 son.
— 4 son.
Ann.
Margery.
John.
Robert.
Elizabeth.
, and Gerard was his son and heir, then of the age of twenty-one years and upwards, from which time the family have held an uninterrupted possession.
There is a chapel here under St Oswald's, which being only three miles from Durham, was generally served by a monk from the convent: It is a mean building, consisting of a nave or body and chancel, very dark, and in poor repair: No arms or monuments, or any thing memorable. It is in the deanry of Easington, and a Peculiar belonging to the dean and chapter of Durham, not certified or in charge, consequently pays no first-fruits or tenths, but only 2s. 6d. as procurations to the bishop. The real value (1767) was 52l. 10s
 
£.
s.
d.
 
Prescript in lieu of all tithes for Butterby
1
13
4
Due at Midsummer.
— for hay of Sunderland bridge
1
8
0
Due at Michaelmas.
— for hay and corn for Croxdale
1
0
10
Due at Easter.
Curates.
—John, 1170—Tho. Williamson, 1529—Wm Blunt, 1530 Nich. Burnchoppe, oc. 6th Feb. 1564 Fra. Brackenburye, cl. 1570—Geo. Barker, 1604— Nich. Walton, A. M. 12th Nov. 1616—J. Green, 2d Jul. 1639—Rich. Roberts, A M. 24th Oct. 1667—John Milner, A. B. 15th Apr. 1675—Rob. Thompson, A. M. 1st Nov. 1681—John Smith A. M. 4th Nov. 1682 — John Lille, A. M. 21st Jul. 1684 — Abra. Yap
, A. B. 16th Feb. 1694—Fra. Woodmas, A. M. 16th Nov. 1695—Rob. Leeke, A. M. 28th Jan. 1696— Tho. Sherman, A. B. 29th Oct. 1700—Rob. Leeke; he was presented again, I suppose, after Sherman's death John Powell, A. M. 27th Nov 1703—John Waring, A. M. 31st May, 1714—John Parkinson, A M. 15th Mar. 1715—H
ld by sequestration; I presume Waring ob. 1716. Rich. Dunn, A. M. 31st Aug. 1723— John Delaval, A M. 18th Dec. 1725—Edward Gregory, A. B. 1731 — John Branfoot, A. M. 1st Dec. 1712 —Rob. Davison, A. M. 19th Oct. 1742—Tho. Hayes, A. M. 27th Nov. 1759—Jonath. Bransoot, A. B. 29th Jul. 1761—John Wheeler, A. B. 20th July, 1765.—
Randal's MSS.
.
From a manuscript of the late Mr Ra. Hodgson's of Durham.
Sir Gerrard Salvin, of Thorpsalvin, knight.
—, d. of Sir Anselm St Quinton, knight.
Brian Salvin, of Thorpsalvin,
esq
—, d. of John Folyatt, knight.
Gerrard.
—, d. of Sir Wm Skergill, knight.
George, of Thorpsalvin.
Gerrard Salvin, of Duffield,
esq
—, d. of Sir Tho. Santon, knt.
John Salvin, of Duffield.
From hence the visitation in
1615.
Gerrard Salvin, of Croxdale,
esq
—, d. of — Wren.
Gerrard.
—, d. of — Norton, of Norton, Yorkshire.
Gerrard.
Ann, d. of Hum. Blakiston, of Great Chilton.
Jerrard Salvin, of Croxdale,
esq
living 1615, ob.
. 74, A. D. 1663.
Dorothy, d. of Bryan Belasyse,
esq
of Morton.—N. B.
This is placed by conjecture, as such a marriage occurs about that time.
—M. T.
Jerrard,
esq
of Croxdale.
Ann, d. of — Clavering,
esq
of Callaly, Northumberland.
Mary, mar. Edw. Haggerston,
esq
Cath ob. unmar.
Bryan Salvin, of Croxdale,
esq
Ob. 1751.
Ann, d. of Sir Wm Haggerston, of Haggerston, bart.
Jerrard.
Brian All died s. p.
Marmaduke.
Edward.
Ann. Margaret, d. s. p.
William, of Croxdale,
esq
living 1786.
Mary, d. of Sir Ed. Gascoigne, bart. 1st wife d. s. p.
Catharine, d. of T. Thornton,
esq
of Netherwitton, Northum.
Jerrard, eld. s. d. young, 1780.
Catharine m. T. Stanley Massey,
esq
Priddington, co. Chester.
Anne d. young.
Wm Salvin, eld. surviving son.
Bryan born 1779.
Mary.
Margaret.
Frances.
Elizabeth.
Mary m. Geo. Markham.
esq
of Claxby, Lincolnshire. Ob. 1776.
Ann married Walter Strickland, of Sizergh,
esq
Westmoreland.
William.
Ralph.
Francis de Elmdon,
esq
About this time a Bryan Salvin, of Croxdale, mar. Cath. d. of Sir Tho. Tempest, of Stella.—He had two other wives.
Ellen.
Muriel.
Eliza.
Robert.
John.
Marie mar. Ra. Bulmer,
esq
A small rivulet runs at the foot of the pleasure grounds, called Croxdale beck; this water passes through a very romantic channel, and supplies a paper-mill: It makes its way in a deep and narrow dell, just sufficient to admit a winding road to the mill. The rocks on each hand are shaken and columnar, affording several grand and awful scenes; the precipices overhang the vale; and large forest trees, bending from the cliffs, extend their solemn shade on every side. The natural grottos watered with cascades, the mossy banks, the falling streams of the brook, the gloom of the thick foliage, the grotesque rocks, the spreading arms of the oaks, the grassy plots that border the rivulets, all conspire to please the mind that has a taste for solitude, romantic scenes, and rural meditation. Was a little art employed to smooth the paths, to remove some few deformities, and with a skilful hand to dress the wild beauties of the vale, we know not where a more extraordinary scene could be found. The dell is so deep, that on very few days in the year the sun's rays touch the mill-house, and a person might live there for an age and never enjoy that spectacle. In days of deep ignorance and superstition, this dell was thought to be the residence of evil spirits; an idea which gained credit, perhaps, from its being a place resorted to by robbers and vagabonds. To banish the infernal inhabitants, a cross was erected here, which gave name to the adjacent lands, this being in several old writings wrote
Croixdale;
so the desert of Cross-fell, in Cumberland, is in old authors and charts called
Fiends Fell;
and since the erection of a cross thereon, to vanquish the legions of Satan, it has obtained the present name of Cross-Fell.
Returning towards Durham by the turnpike road,
BURNHALL
lies to the left, the seat of Geo. Smith,
esq
Wm Smith, cl. was rector of Lowther in Westmorland; ob. 30th Nov. 1675, and was buried in the chancel there.
His son Dr John Smith, a famous orthodox divine, was born at Lowther in the year 1659, settled at Durham 1681 ad
t
d a minor canon 1682, and was nominated to the churches of Croxdale and Witton Gilbert in 1686;
eat in Madrid as chaplain to lord Lansdowne, then ambassador. In 1694, lord Crewe, bishop of Durham, constituted him his domestic chaplain: 1695, he was collated to the rectory of Gateshead and
, and to a prebend of Durham in the month of September; in 1699, was treasurer of the cath. ch.; 1
0
. he was collated to the rectory of Bishop weremouth, and built the parsonage house there; died at Camb.
th Jul. 1715, aet.
and was buried in St John's chapel. He mar. Mary, eldest daughter of Wm Cooper of Sea
rough, by his wife
hiladelphia, fifth daughter of Henry Smith, of West-Horrington and Moreton-house, which Henry was half-brother to Sir G. Baker, of Crook, by their mother Mary, daughter of Lio. Heron, of Chipchase castle,
esq
who was married first to Oswald Baker,
esq
and after his death to Will. Smith of Durham and West Herrington,
esq
counsellor at law, whence the said Mary Cooper was allied in blood to Geo. Baker,
esq
founder of 6 exhib. in St John's col. Camb. She died in 1729, aet 57, and was buried in the cath. ch. yard. They had issue George, John, and Joseph. George was of Burnhall, born 7th May, 1693; took orders in the Nonjuring church, and was made titular bishop of Durham; a famous antiquary, and editor of Bede's Works, and a tract entitled "Saxons not converted to Popery"; ob. 4th Nov. and buried in Elvet church-yard, Durham, 1756: He married Christian, daughter of Hilkia Bedford. John was a Blackhall factor; died and was buried at Durham, 1731. Joseph was fellow of Trin. Col. Camb. died 1739; married a woman of no character at Camb. called Betty Woodgen. George Smith,
esq
had issue John Smith,
esq
M. D. ob. 1752, aet. 29; buried in Little St Mary's, Durham; married Anne, dau. of Nich. Shuttleworth,
esq
and by her had issue an only son, the present Geo. Smith,
esq
who was a student at St Andrew's, in Scotland, and now owner of Persfield, in Monmouthshire.—[See a full pedigree of this family in Thoresby's
Ducatus Leodiensis,
p. 21.]
The house stands in a low situation, on the banks of the river Bourn or Brune, from whence the house took its name. Mr Smith has made great improvements to his seat and adjacent lands: A farmhouse, on the opposite side of the turnpike road, is called Old Burnhall. In the 25th year of bishop Hatfield, we find this manor was the estate of Robert de Brackenbury, held of the lord of Brancepeth by the fourth part of a knight's fee, value 10l.
Inq. p. m. Rob. de Brackenburye, ao 25o Hatfield ap. Dun. cor. W. de Menevylle vic. Dun.
Inq. p. m. Alicia dau'r of Gilbert, heir of Robert. Nicholas brother of Gilbert, and her uncle, heir, ao 35o Hatfield co. W. de Bowes esc.
Inq. p. m. Matil. q. fuit uxor. Joh'is Claxton cl'ici, &c. manerio de Magna Brune, &c. te. de com. Westm'l. p. hom. & fid. & quartam p'tem un. feod. mil. &c. ao 17o Langley
In the 5th king Richard II. 1381, it was called in the record Burnemagna, and was then held by Alicia the daughter and heiress of Gilbert de Brackenbury, of John de Nevill, lord of Raby. It came into the family of the Claxtons by marriage with Maud, daughter and heiress of Will. de Brackenbury, and was then held of the earl of Westmorland. It was afterwards the property of the Peacocks
1688, Nov. 10, arms were granted to Simon Peacock of Burnhall, viz. Sable, three peacocks in pride argent, a chief embattled, or.—See Guillim, p. 233.
.
Near Burnhall house is a house vulgarly called Farewell Hall, situated on the side of the turnpike road; this was the family house of the Farnhams, who possessed a considerable landed property. The manor of
Relley,
which lies at the point of land between the rivulets of Brune and Derness, with lands in Aldernage, by the licence of bishop Bury, were purchased by the convent of Durham of Richard de Castro Bernardi
Rot. B. Hatfield, Sch. 2, No 1.
Tho. d g. &c. S. Cu. Ric'us de Bury, &c. ac ja. p. quand. inq. cor. dil'co & fideli n'ro Joh'e de Hyndsey esc. &c. p. l're n'ru. de ad q'd damnu. &c. non est ad dampnu. &c. man'iu. de Rylly & dece. acr. t're cu. p'tin. in Aldyngrige q'e fueru't Ric'i de Castro Barnardi cl'ici, &c. Dat. 28th Ap. 1379.
.
ALDERNAGE HOUSE, otherwise called Aldin-Grainge, in a pleasant retired situation on the banks of the Brune, was the place of residence of John Bedford,
esq
M. D. in the last years of his life; with a considerable estate adjoining, held under the dean and chapter of Durham, by lease for twenty-one years
Extract from Nichol's Anecdotes of Wm Bowyer, Printer, F. S. A. 1782.—"The name of Bedford has occured so often in this volume, that it becomes necessary to give some account of the family. Hilkiah Bedford, of Sibsey, in Lincolnshire, a Quaker, came to London, and settled there as a stationer, between the years 1600 and 1625. He married a daughter of Mr Wm Platt, of Highgate, by whom he had a son, Hilkiah, a mathematical instrument maker, in Hosier-lane, near West-Smithfield. In this house (which was afterwards burnt in the great fire of London, 1666) was born the famous Hilkiah, July 23, 1663; who, in 1667, was admitted of St John's college, Cambridge, the first scholar on the foundation of his maternal grandfather, William Platt. Hilkiah was afterwards elected fellow of his college, and patronised by Hencage Finch, earl of Winchelsea, but deprived of his preferment (which was in Lincolnshire) for refusing to take the oaths at the Revolution, and afterwards kept a boarding-house for the Westminster scholars. In 1714, being tried in the court of King's Bench, he was fined 1000 marks, and imprisoned three years, for writing, printing, and publishing "The Hereditary Right of the Crown of England asserted, 1713," folio; the real author of which was George Harbin, a nonjuring clergyman, whom his friendship thus screened, and on account of his sufferings he received 100l.
Perhaps the pocketing of the hundred pounds required no ceremony; for Bedford "was prosecuted, and suffered imprisonment for fathering" the book; which notorious fact, known to lord Weymouth and all the world, might sufficiently account for the benefaction to Bedford, whether he was looked upon to be the author of the book or not. But the strange part of the story is, that Harbin, the author of the book, should carry the money to him as the real author.
from the earl of Weymouth, who knew not the real author. His other publications were, a translation of an answer to Fontenelle's History of Oracles, and a Latin life of Dr Barwick, which he afterwards translated into English. He died in 1724. By his wife Alice, daughter of William Cooper,
esq
he had three sons; 1. William
I have a number of this gentleman's letters to Dr Z. Grey, in MS.
, educated at St John's College (appointed physician to Christ's hospital, 1746, and register of the college of physicians, London, of which he was fellow and censor, and died July 11, 1747, leaving by his second wife an only daughter Elizabeth, married to John Claxton,
esq
of Lincoln's Inn, and of Shirley, near Croydon, Surry, F. A. S.) 2. Thomas, a divine
He was editor of Symeon Dunelm. Hist. published in 1732.
. And 3, John
Who used to sign himself "John Bedford, M. D. Univ. Patav." About the year 1761, he retired from practice, and lived remarkably recluse. He was described by a gentleman who visited him in 1766, as
near in his expences, sober and regular in his living, exact in his payments, and punctual in his promises.
He had at that time an intention of putting up a monument to his father, in the church of which he was deprived. He was thrice married; died in 1776, very rich; and left a son, Hilkiah, who was entered in the summer of 1768, of St John's College, Cambridge, became a fellow of that college, and a counsellor, and died greatly beloved in 1779. Dr John Bedford had also two daughters: Elizabeth died single in August 1765: The other, Alice, (born in 1748) was married in 1766, to — Hall,
esq
of Durham, and is now a widow.
, a physician at Durham. He had also three daughters, of whom Christian the eldest married George Smith,
esq
The following inscription is copied from a blue marble altar tomb in Elvet church-yard, Durham.
Here lyes the body Of GEORGE SMITH, of BURNHALL,
esq
The venerable remains of a most valuable person, Whose manners, life, and writings, Gave a lustre to his birth and station. And shewed, that with the name, He had all the qualifications Of a gentleman, a christian, and a scholar. He dyed November 4, 1756, in the 64th year of his age. Near him are also buried twelve of his Children, who dyed infants, viz. 7 sons And 5 daughters. Also Christian, Wife of the said George Smith. Who died the 23d of July, 1781, Aged 79. Not in Nichol's publication.
On a monument of white marble, fixed to the wall of the east end of the south aile of St Oswald's church.
GEORGIO SMITH, de Burnhall, armigero, qui hac in urbe natus, Academicis
que
disciplinis Oxonii primum deinde Cantabrigiae institutus, Ita postea linguarum, historiaeq. & theologiae studiis se totum dedit, Ut inter celebriores aevi scriptores Scriptor ipse acutus gravis eruditus enitesceret. Quam raro autem et felici exemplo Literis Saxonicis operam impenderet Praeclara Bedae testatur editio Post patris sui labores morte interceptos a filio adhuc juvene absoluta, variisque Haud vulgaris argumenti & doctrinae Dissertationibus illustrata. Vitam ad severiora Religionis instituta propius exactam Humanitatis interim et Benevolentiae Condimentis ita temperavit Ut maximam nomini suo dignitatem Virtuti ipsi decus quoddam & splendorem conciliasse videretur. Vir pius prudens integer mansuctus Officiosus omnibus, omnibusq. carus, Ipsi imprimis luctuosae viduae, Quam amanter viventem foveret Mortuumque aeque desideret Testem hoc marmor perennem esse Voluit Obiit die 4 mensis Novemb. 1756 anno Aetatis 64.
; of Burnhall; Elizabeth married fifty years to the Rev. Mr Gordon, who died advanced in years within a week after her, October 1779; Mary married to Mr John Soleby, druggist, in Holborn.
.
BROOME is frequently mentioned in our ancient records. By an inquisition taken in the third year of bishop Bury, it appears, lands in Broome were the possession of Constantia del Brome, who held them
in capite
by fealty and ten shillings rent, and Thomas del Brome was her son and heir. In the year 1362, Richard de Wyteparys died seised of lands in Netherbrome, held of the bishop of Durham at 6s. 8d. rent, which paid a rent-charge of 20s. yearly to the prior of Durham; and also lands in Overbrome, held of the prior of Durham at 2s. rent. By bishop Hatfield's survey
Brome cum Flash.
Robertus Belford tenet j mess. & xxx acr. terrae quond'm Alani Brome & red. xiijs. iiijd. & j rod terrae de novo approat. &c ijd.
Will's Warde j mes. & xxx acr. xiij s. iiij d.—& j plac. juxta ten. suum iiijd.—Tho. Ryndwode j mes. & xv. acr. vjs. iiijd.—j acr. de novo approat. iiijd.—Tho. Yoman, Robertus Palman, Johannes de Lambeton, Johannes de Cawode tenent, &c.
Haeres Thomae de Essh tenet j mes. & xxxiiij acr. viijs. & maner de Essh, &c. j lib. cene & mult. al parcel.
Prior Dunolm. tenet xx acr. terrae libere quond'm Rich. Whitparish & red. vjs. viijd.
Haeredes Thomae de Hexham tenent ij acr. juxta Bromeholme & red. xij d. &c.—Hatfield's Survey.
it is stated, that one Robert Belford held lands which formerly belonged to the family of Brome, and that there were sundry other proprietors, among whom the prior of Durham is noted to be in possession of Wyteparys lands. In the 31st year of bishop Hatfield, by an inquisition taken on the death of Thomas de Hexham, whose heirs are named in the survey before noted, we find he died seised of the manor of Broome, held of the prior of Finchale by fealty and four shillings rent. In a licence of bishop Fordham's, for the priory of Durham to obtain lands in mortmain, dated 1388, certain lands in Le Brome are mentioned
Rot. Fordham, Sch. 10. No 13.
, formerly the estate of John Cawoode, named in the survey before referred to,
T'e. de Pr. ut de Cella sua Fynkhall.
In the beginning of the fifteenth century, the 27th year of bishop Langley, it became part of the great possessions of the Fossour family, who afterwards wrote their name Forcer
Man'co del Brome juxta Aldyngrenge & octod'cim acr. t're cu. p'tin ib. ex dono & concessio Tho. Copper & Tho. Kellawe capellor. he'nd sibi & he'dib's int. eos (Johan ux.) litie p'creat imp'p'm q'd. quid. man. & t'r. cu. p'tin. te' de Pr. Dun. p' que servicia jur. ign. &c.
PEDIGREE OF FORCERS.
Johannes Forcer de Kellowe, in epatu.
Elizabeth, fil. Radi Ellarcase Mil. ux. 2.
Radulphus.
Franciscus.
Bartholomus.
—Filia Joh'is Awderwood, de Midridge Graynge, in epatu.
Thomas Forcer, de Kellowe.
—
il. Joh'is Racket de Wharr
ton, ux. 1.
Thomas.
Margareta.
Elizabetha, fil. Joh'is Trollope, ux, 1ma
Johannis de Kellowe, Ao 1575.
Margareta filia Xtoferi Carre de Shirburnhouse.
Thomas, Aet. 18, Ao 1575.
Margareta.
Elizabetha.
Flower's visitation.
.
Part of BEAUREPAIRE, or BEARPARK
Bearpark.
Moiety de q. est en paroch. de Witton l'aut Elvet.
Locus de Bello redditu. olim suit vaccaria pertin. ad Eleemosynam Dun. de qua excambium p' Moorhouse farm p' B. priorem Dun.—4 Reg. D. & Cha. fo. 1 & 41.
Bertramus prior construxit cameram cum capello ib'm.
, lies in the parish of St Oswald, particularly the remains of the prior's house
Camden.
Hugo de Derlington prior inclusit Bewpark.
Fuit rustica prior Dun. sedes & John Fossour prior ib'm vixit & obiit.
Vide plus de eo. Rot. Bainbridge, B. No 64, & Cart. D. & Cha.
Custod. parce de Bearpark, granted p' les priors p' patent purvy cum feodo.—
Mickleton's MSS.
Ex tabula pencilibus Dunelmensis.
Rex David venit ad
Bewrepark,
ubi sixit tentoria. Hoc tempore, exercitus Anglorum erat apud Akeland.
Ex antiquo codice Dunelmensi.
Tempore Berthrami prioris vaccaria quaedam prope Dunelm um mutata est in locum solatii & edificiis ornata; a quo tempore dicta est
Beaurepaire,
id est
Bellus redditus.
A. D. 1264. Hugo de Derlington, prior Dunelmen. fecit
magn. campanile;
Parcos de
Beaurepaire
&
Muggleswick,
Stangnum de Fery,
Pitington, Benliffe, Mukeling;
Ille fecit manerium de
Ketton,
capellam aula
& cameras de codem; Cameras de
Pitington, Westow,
&
Wardlaw,
postea a Scottis destructas. Fecit ins
or cameram de
Mugleswick
aquam de Devernesset de Broun.—
Lel. Itin. vol. viij.
. Originally part of the possessions of the bishop, it was obtained in exchange by prior Bertram, for Moorhouse; who, having a desire for a rural retreat for himself and successors, in this place erected a camera or lodge, with a chapel. Prior Hugh, of Darlington, who succeeded him at the distance of about fourscore years, in bishop Stichill's time, enclosed the park; it is also said by the monkish writers, he built a camera here, which we may conceive implies he added to or improved prior Bertram's erections. Whilst bishop Bek persecuted the convent, he broke down the fences of the park, and drove out the game. In the reign of king Edward II. the Scotch, among other depredations committed in the environs of the city, pillaged and defaced this beautiful retreat. Prior Fossour
See page 89.
had great pleasure in this place; to him we may attribute part of the embellishments, for the architecture of the chapel points out the improvements of a refined age; and as he acceded to his office in 1342, it may be presumed he restored Beaurepaire after the destroying hand of the Scots, in 1346, when David Bruce, as Camden says,
ferro & flamma foevisset.
As authors are silent touching Beaurepaire from this period, it is probable nothing material happened to it till the dissolution. The manor, with the house and park, were part of the possessions of the monastery, restored by the king's endowment, after the institution of the dean and chapter.
In the time of dean Granville, who was instituted in 1684, an inquisition was taken of the deanry possessions, in which we find Beaurepaire thus described: "
Proeter domos sive aedificia apud Dun. fuit & est spectan. ad decan. decanat. Dun. et
40, 50,
aut
60
annos ultimo elaps. et ultra, necnon p' te'pus, cujus contrarii memoria hominis non existit, fuit stan. & existen. apud Bearparke, infra com. & dioc. Dun. quaedam domus mansional. vocat.
the manor house of Bearpark,
quae quidem domus mansionalis distans est a decanatu Dunelm. p' unu. miliare Anglicanu. vel eo circiter; ac infra eand. dom. mansionalem sunt, seu saltem antiquitus & ab initio fuere stan. & existen. Cameae seu partitiones & cellae particular. sequen. viz.
a hall, two passages near the hall, one large kitchen and an oven in it, a back room adjoining on the west end of the kitchen, a dining room, a great room leading to the chapel called the dormitory, some arches, and two rooms above the arches, a chapel and a room under it, three rooms or two at least called the prior's chamber, and the western room thereof called the prior's lodgings, a little room adjoining the prior's chamber, a staircase, and vaults under all and every the lower or floor rooms of the said mansion house, excepting the hall and kitchen, and the room aforesaid adjoining the kitchen. And at Bearpark aforesaid, there formerly have been belonging to the said manor house, several courts and gardens that were walled about; and also sundry out-houses, which are now wholly dilapidated, and nothing to be seen or perceived but the ruins thereof.
Et etiam sedes, locus, sive villa de Bearparke, est & ab antiquo fuit maneriu. ac domus mansional. terraeq. dominical. ejusd. manerij & aedificiae & structurae reliquae reliqua praementionat. ad cand. dom. mansional. spectan. necnon tenementa & parcu. ejusd. manerij, aliaq. proficua & emolumenta infra precinctus & territoria dict. manerij annuatim emergen. no'ric sunt pars & parcella corporis decanat. Dun. &c. Et terrae dominical. & tenementa ac parcum manerij de Bearparke aliaq. proficua infra terris dom. ejusdem manerii sunt & pro
20,
&c. annos ultimo elapsos et ultra fuere annuatim de claro valen. sumam
300
l.
295
l.
290
l.
285
l.
aut 280
l. legalis monetae Angliae, ac praed. J. Sudbury durante toto tempore p' q'd fuit decan. ex terris dominical. & tenementis ac parco aliisq. emolumentis manorij de Bearparke, sum'am
6000
l. &c. de claro leg'lis monetae Angliae habebat p'cipicbat & in usu. suu. convertebat
Ex Arch. D. & Cha.—
Randal's MSS.
." The situation of this house is excellent, about two miles to the north-west of Durham, on a lofty eminence, above the rivulet of Brune, in a dry soil, and surrounded with cultivated lands, having a long extended level mead to the south; sine coppices are scattered over the steep descents on both sides of the river; and there is a beautiful prospect to the north, rendered highly picturesque by the town and church of Witton-Gilbert and the adjacent hamlets. Much destruction has been made in the buildings since dean Granville's time; and nothing but naked and distracted walls remain of this once beautiful place. The chapel is thirteen paces long and eight wide; the east window consists of three lights, circular at the top and very plain; there are three windows on each side, each divided by a mullion into two lights, their framing on the outside square: The wall is strengthened with a buttress of neat hewn stone work between each window, and a cornice runs round the building of the zig-zag figure: There is a door on the north side of the chapel from the court
We meet with the names of three chapels:
1. The chapel of St Edmund, "In aedibus suburbanis Pr. & Conv. Dun. Bellus redditus nominatis."
2. Another chapel of St Catherine in the manor, where five days in the week service was performed by a chaplain.
3. The chapel of St John in the park, where service was performed twice in the week. Hugh Whitehead, the last prior and first dean of Durham, is said to have repaired many houses here which were fallen to decay.
Bishop Bainbrig granted to the prior of Durham free warren in his parks of Beaurepaire, Muggleswick, Holayfield, and Raynton; and also in his woods of Strothowe, Witton, Mayner, Sacristanheugh, Hayningwood, Herberclose, and Ferycliffe; and Bakestanford wood, Rilley, cum Rilley wood, Aldinygrege, Altonfield, and Morebybank.—
Rot. Sever, No 64.
. The walls of the chapel in the inside are ornamented with a regular succession of small round columns or pilasters, belted in the midst, the capitals filled with a garland of open cut foliage, of a delicate work; from whence spring pointed arches, three pilasters and two arches in each space between the windows: The west end is equally finished with pilasters and arches; and there is a small window in the center: At each side of the east window is a pedestal, for a statue, of considerable size. The apartment under the chapel is lighted by small square windows; but as the floor of the chapel is gone, it is not easy to determine how it was constructed. Adjoining to the chapel on the west is a long building, the two gabels of which are standing, having a large window of six lights to the south: This was most probably the refectory. On the north are the remains of a building, twenty paces in length, lighted to the east by three windows, which we conjecture was the dormitory: The other remains are so ruined and confused, as to render them totally indistinct. There is a door case standing, which has been the entrance into the garden or some chief court, with the arms of the See in the center. The principal parts of this edifice are delineated in the plate on the next page
In the second edition of Mr Grose's work he has given a fine inside view of the great hall.
.
The Scotch army, before the battle of the Red Hills, in 1346
Ex tabula pencilibus Dunelmensis.
A. D. 1346. Vigilia S. Luce hora q. bellum inter Scottos & Anglos in loco dicto Nevill's cross.—Berthram Copland mane irruebat cum parte exercitus in Scottos.—Neville & Henri Percy postea fortiter cum Scottos dimicabant. Gul. de la Zouche archiepiscopus Ebor & Mowbray ejus diacomis ac Robertus Ogle ejus subdiaconus fortiter pugnabant.—Thomas Carre vexillarius dixit Joanni Copland,
cape Davidem regem.
—
Lel. Itin. vol. viii.
Corabale.
Tho. &c. Sciatis q'd c. Rob'tus de Cornhale teneat ad terminum vitae suae de nob. in capite 3 mess. & 6 bovatas terrae cum pertin. in Cornhale, de dono Will'i de Pendregrest, que quidem messuagia, &c. post mortem pred. Rob'ti nob. pro sorisficar'am presat. Will'i remanere deberent eo q'd idem Will's Scotis municis & rebellib's n'ris adhesit. Nos ad gratu. et laudabile obsequiu. quod dilectus nob. Joh'es de Coupland, nobis et eccl'ie nostre Dun. impendit, &c. Concessimus, &c. messuagia, &c. prefato Joh'i, &c. tenend. sibi & he
delus suis de nobis & successoribus nostris per servicia inde debita, &c. &c. P. L'ram de priv. sig.—
Rudd. MSS.
, (called by many writers the battle of Nevill's Cross, from the cross erected on the ground after the
BEAR PARK
victory) lay at Beaurepaire. In the Chronique of William de Pakington, it is thus spoken of:
About this tyme, by the meane of Philip Valoys, king of France, David, king of Scottes enterid yn to the north marches, spoiling and burning, and toke by force the pyle of Lydelle, and causid the noble knight Walter Selby captayne of it, to be slayne afore his owne face, not suffering him so much as to be confessed. And after he cam to the coste of Dyrham, and lay there at a place caullid Beaurepaire, a manor of the prior of Duresme, set in a parke; and thither resorted many of the cuntery aboute, compounding with hym to spare their groundes and manurs. Then William Souch, archebishop of York, the counte of Anegos, Mounseir John de Montbraye, Mounseir Henry de Percy, Mounseir Rafe de Neville, Mounseir Rafe de Hastinges, Mounseir Thomas de Rokeby, then sheriff of Yorkshire, and other knightes and good men of the northe, marchid toward the Scottes, and first lay yn Akeland park, and in the morning encounterid with Syr William Duglas, killing of his band 200 menne; and he, with much payne, escapid to Burepaire, to king David, declaring the cuming of the English host. Wher then king David issued, and faught upon a more nere to Duresme toune, and there was taken prisoner, and with hym Syr Wylliam Douglas, the Counte of Menethe, and the Counte of Fyfe, and greate numbre of the communes of Scotland slayn. The king, because he was wondid in the face, he was caried to Werk, and there he lyd, and thens brought to London.
We have repeated this account because it contains some circumstances not named by modern authors. The year in which this battle was fought, was productive of the most glorious laurels that wreathed the sword of Edward III. and the Scotch received such humiliations as that nation never before experienced. The king of England, with an army greatly inferior to his foes, by the valour and intrepid conduct of his heroic son, obtained a glorious victory at Cressy. He then formed a blockade before Calais, which, with other distresses, induced the king of France to send proposals to the court of Scotland, for making an invasion on the borders: The absence of Edward, the vast supplies of men and money which his campaign required, the exhausted state of England, afforded a probable appearance that David's projected expedition might be attended with success: The king of France's object was not honour to the Scotch crown, but to amuse the king of England, or draw off some of his forces: A considerable sum of money and reinforcement of troops were sent into Scotland, and the king, with the assent of his parliament assembled at Perth, engaged in the expedition. Edward having entertained doubts, that during his absence a storm would be gathering on the brow of his known adversary, dispatched messengers to the court of Scotland, to amuse by offers of a restitution of Berwick, on condition that the Scotch would stand neuter in the conflicts between England and France; but contrary to the opinion of many of his most skilful peers, David rejected the proposed terms of amity, and prepared to invade England: He collected a powerful army, consisting, according to Rapin, of 30,000 men; other authors, particularly Froissart, Speed, Barnes, and Knighton greatly exaggerate the numbers; with these, in the beginning of October, 1346, David entered England by the western march, shewing tokens of a bloody and savage mind in his outset, by putting the garrison of Liddell tower to the sword, and marking his progress through Cumberland with wanton slaughter and desolation. He advanced to the county of Durham, and approached the city. The queen of England summoned the prelates and military tenants to attend her at York, where measures were concerted for opposing the invaders, and a body of troops, amounting to about 16,000 men, were assembled with all speed; whilst David, with his army, lay at Beaurepaire, the associate lords encamped in Auckland park. Douglas, with a chosen troop, reconnoitering the English, was engaged near Merrington; his detachment was put to the rout, and he escaped to the king with much peril. Rapin tells us, the queen of England led the English forces to battle; but that assertion is not supported by any cotemporary writer of credit: David looked upon his adversaries as a raw and undisciplined army, not able to stand against his hardy veterans, and shewed signs of great impatience before the troops engaged, presuming that victory was certain, and that the riches of the city were due to his plundering soldiers: The English army was drawn up in four divisions; lord Henry Percy commanded the first, supported by the earl of Angus, the bishop of Durham, and several northern nobles; the second body was led by the archbishop of York, accompanied by the bishop of Carlisle, and the lords Nevill and Hastings; the bishop of Lincoln, the lord Mowbray, and Sir Thomas Rokesby led the third division; and at the head of the fourth was Edward Baliol, supported by the archbishop of Canterbury, the lord Roos, and the sheriff of Northumberland: Each division consisted of four thousand men, and the archers and men at arms were distributed through the whole corps: The author of the Border History, probably from his own conjecture, for he quotes no authority, alledges
That besides the forces above named, a strong and gallant party under the lords Deincourt and Ogle, guarded queen Philippa, who, in the morning before the battle, having rode along the ranks, and exhorted every man to do his duty, to maintain the honour of his king and country, and take revenge upon their barbarous invaders, recommended her people to the protection of God, and retired to a small distance from the place of action.
The Scotch army was drawn out in three divisions; the first was led by the high steward of Scotland, and the earl of March; the earl of Murray and lord Douglas commanded the second; and the third, consisting of choice troops, in which were incorporated the flower of the Scottish nobility and gentry, sustained by the French auxiliaries, was commanded by the king in person. With much heroic ardour the Scotch king ordered the trumpets to sound the charge: The high steward, who led the van, being sore galled by the English archers, rushed on with such impetuous fury, that he threw them into confusion, and drove them back on lord Henry Percy's division; and the Scotch pushing on vigorously with their broad swords and battle axes, broke them so much, that if relief had not instantly been sent them, they would have been put to the rout; but Baliol, rushing in with a body of horse, threw the Scotch battalion into confusion, and gave the English time to rally and regain their ground, whilst the high steward was obliged to retreat and reform his distracted array: In this manoeuvre he is said to have shewn great generalship, performing the evolutions in a masterly manner, and with little loss. Baliol, with equal skill, gave his troops breath, made no pursuit, and when least suspected, rapidly charged the king's division in flank, whilst they fought man to man in front: Unrelieved, and distressed with this complicated battle, the king fought desperately, repeatedly bringing back his flying troops to the charge, encouraging them by his example, his exhortations and prayers: Ashamed to desert their prince in such jeopardy, a brave phalanx threw themselves around him, and fought till their numbers were reduced to little more than eighty: In this desperate state, and bleeding with many wounds, David scorned to ask for quarter, hoping he should still be relieved, At length resistance was vain, a tumultuous multitude, with shouts of victory, rushed upon him; and he at length was made prisoner to John Copeland, a Northumbrian esquire. The division under Douglas and Murray, struck with a panic at the fate of the royal legion, and overpowered with numbers, were soon broken and routed: Murray died on the field, and Douglas was made prisoner, and few of the inferior officers escaped the sword.
The Scotch king, though he had two spears hanging in his body, his leg desperately wounded, and being disarmed, his sword having been beat out of his hand, disdained captivity, and provoked the English by opprobious language to kill him: When John Copeland, who was governor of Roxborough castle, advised him to yield, he struck him on the face with his gauntlet so fiercely, that he knocked out two of his teeth: Copeland conveyed him out of the field as his prisoner. Upon Copeland's refusing to deliver him up (his royal captive) to the queen, who stayed at Newcastle during the battle, the king sent for him to Calais, where he excused his refusal so handsomely, that the king sent him back a reward of 500l. a year in lands, where he himself should chuse it, near his own dwelling, and made him a knight banneret
Rymer's Foed. tom. v. p. 542.—Froisart, l. 1. p. 140.—Rapin, p. 425.
.
This battle was fought on the 17th of October, 1346, and lasted only three hours, beginning at nine in the morning, the victory being declared by sound of trumpet at noon: The loss of the enemy was estimated at 15,000, the chief of whom were the earls of Murray and Strathern, the lord constable David Hay, the lord marshal Edward Keith, together with the lords chancellors and chamberlain of Scotland, the lords Philip Meldrum, John Stewart, and Alan Stewart his brother, sir Alexander Bothwell, the king's standard bearer, sir Alexander Ramsay, and others of high rank. Among the prisoners were the earls of Fife, Sutherland, Monteith, Carrick, and Wigton, the lord Douglas, the bishops of St Andrew and Aberdeen, James Douglas, sir Malcolm Fleming, with many men of distinction. Historians have not mentioned what particular loss was sustained on the part of the English. Knighton tells us of four knights and five esquires only, who fell in the field; and Dugdale says the lord Hastings was mortally wounded: But in so bloody a battle it is impossible but many men of distinction would fall in the English army.
The ground where this battle was fought is hilly, and in many parts very steep, towards the river, so that it is not possible to conceive how such an armament could be arranged and engage in any order. The account given of this battle, and of the subsequent transactions of the convent, by the writers of that house, as published by Davies, and contained in Sir John Lawson's MSS. and Mr Hogg's Roll, is to the effect given in the notes
In the night before the battle of Durham, there appeared to John Fossour, then prior of the abbey of Durham, a vision, commanding him to take the holy corporax cloth, wherewith St Cuthbert covered the chalice when he used to say mass, and to put the same upon a spear point, and next morning to repair to a place on the west of the city of Durham, called the Red Hills, and there to remain till the end of the battle.— The prior and monks, accompanied with Ralph lord Nevil, and John Nevil his son, lord Percy, and many other nobles, returned to the abbey church, there joining in prayer and thanksgiving to God, and holy St Cuthbert, for the conquest obtained that day: In which battle a holy cross, taken out of Holy Rood House, in Scotland, by king David Bruce, was taken from the said king; which cross is recorded, by ancient and credible writers, to have come to the said king most miraculously: Being hunting the hart in a forest near Edinburgh, upon Holy Rood day. In the place where this miracle was wrought, now springs a fountain, called the Rood well. The night after he was warned in his sleep to build an abbey in the same place.— Many excellent jewels and monuments brought from Scotland, and noblemen's banners, were offered to the shrine of St Cuthbert; together with the black rood of Scotland.
The banner cloth was a yard broad, and five quarters deep, the bottom was indented in five parts, and fringed, and made fast all about with red silk and gold. It was made of red velvet, on both sides embroidered with flowers of green silk and gold; and in the midst was the said corporax cloth inclosed, covered over with white velvet, half a yard square every way, having a cross of red velvet on both sides, being fringed about the edge and skirts with red silk and gold, and three fine little silver bells fastened to the skirts of the said banner cloth, like unto sacring bells.
On the west side of the city of Durham, where two roads pass each other, a most famous and elegant cross of stone work was erected to the honour of God, for the victory there obtained, known by the name of Nevil's cross, and built at the sole cost of lord Ralph Nevil; which cross had seven steps about it, every way squared, to the socket wherein the stalk of the cross stood, which socket was fastened to a large square stone, the sole or bottom stone being of a great thickness, viz. a yard and a half every way: This stone was the eighth step. The stalk of the cross was in length three yards and a half up to the boss, having eight sides all of one piece; from the socket it was fixed into the boss above, into which boss the stalk was deeply soldered with lead. In the midst of the stalk, in every second square, was the Nevil's cross: A saltire, in a 'scutcheon, being lord Nevil's arms, finely cut; and at every corner of the socket was a picture of one of the four evangelists, finely set forth and carved. The boss at the top of the stalk was an octangular stone, finely cut and bordered, and most curiously wrought; and in every square of the nether side thereof was Nevil's cross, in one square, and the bull's head in the next, so in the same reciprocal order about the boss. On the top of the boss was a stalk of stone, (being a cross a little higher than the rest) whereon was cut, on both sides of the stalk of the said cross, the picture of our Saviour Christ crucified; the picture of the Blessed Virgin on one side, and of St John the Evangelist on the other, both standing on the top of the boss. All which pictures were most artificially wrought together, and finely carved out of one entire stone, some parts thereof through carved work, both on the east and west sides of the cross, with a cover of stone likewise over their heads, being all most finely and curiously wrought together out of the said hollow stone; which cover of stone was covered over. It remained till the year 1589, when the same was broken down and defaced by some lewd and wicked persons.
. The hilloc called the Maiden's Bower, where St Cuthbert's banner was displayed, whilst the monks put up their prayers to Heaven, within hearing of the noise and bustle of the conflict, where
the battle
was (truely) with tumult and garments rolled in blood,
is yet to be seen in the depth of the valley, by the hedges of Shaw wood
And likewise in the said Red Hills, on the north side of Nevil's cross, a little distant from a piece of ground called the Flasse, the Maid's bower used to be, where the prior and monks stood making their prayers to God with the holy relique of St Cuthbert: During the said battle there was erected a beautiful cross of wood, in remembrance of that holy relique carried to the battle.
In the Harleian Collection, No 4843, is the following historical poem
Transcribed by Mr Jos. Ritson, of Gray's Inn, and transmitted to Mr G. Allan. He says the writing appears of the fifteenth century, and the book as having belonged to the abbey of Durham. He adds there is a Latin poem on the same subject in the Cottonian Collection, A. xx. 14. And he transmitted a copy, which did not seem sufficiently curious to excuse its being obtruded on the reader, together with the above.
.
Anno domini MCCCXLVI. die Martis in Vigilia Lucae Evangelistae hora matutin. nona. commissum suit bellum inter Anglos et Scottos non longe a Dunelmia, in loco ubi nunc stat crux vulgariter dicta Nevill Crosse.
Incipit Prologus.
O miranda bonitas Jesu salvatoris
Humiles qui respicit omnibus in horis
Superbos humilians cuspide meroris
Quos ceca cupiditas tenuit erroris.
Non est sapientia certe contra deum
Ulla nec prudentia valet contra eum
Nunc uni nunc alteri dat deus tropheum
Judas
Forte
Judaeus Gens Anglorum
sed prevaluit nunc in amoreum
Gentem Scoticam.
.
Benedictus dominus qui nos visitavit
Ab Egypti
Scottica tirannide.
carcere qui nos liberavit
Qui sub nostris pedibus pharaonem stravit
Angli.
Filios qui Isreal diu captivavit.
Explicit Prologus.
Incipit Tractatus Belli.
In Francorum partibus rege debellante
Et sibi subjecere Callis laborante
Sathanic satellites
Scotti.
treuga non obstante
Irruunt in Angliam ut solebant ante.
Rex DAVIT indomitus vana spe seductus
Et Francorum litteris falsis circumductus
Postea Lidel.
Ad
Ledel
se properat ad suorum luctus
Nam patet per exitum qualis fuit fructus.
Fructus parvus astuit licet capiebat
Unum forcinuculum sibi quod nocebat
Proch dolor sed militem vivum quem videbat
Post visum interimit licet non decebat.
Non decet ad principes nec ad reges magnos
Ad vindictam pessimam nimis esse pronos
Qui studet destruere fideles colonos
Vix sedebit filius ejus super thronos.
Capto forcinuculo DAVIT est letatus
Plusquam credi potuit et est exaltatus
Sic sic per Achitofel
Malcolm Flemyng.
est conciliatus
Partes quae destruere vult episcopatus.
Dunelmie.
Temptavit multocies
Duglas
Willi
lmus.
suo more
Ut ab hoc proposito et ab hoc errore
Davit
regem verteret suo pro honore
Error sed novissimus pejor est priore.
Captis raptis omnibus ad
Lidel
inventis
Versus austrum properat infurore mentis
Non erant sed memores prophete dicentis
Salva locum domini et ipsius gentis.
Occidebant homines utpote bidentes
Non misericordiam in se plus habentes
Heu Cuthberti presulis sic tractabant gentes
Horum sunt plures inopes erant qui potentes.
Spoliant ecclesias rapiunt jumenta
Et de quibus sumpserant nummos & talenta
Comburunt et grangias simul et frumenta
Parum parcunt talibus salla fide tenta.
Vox in Rama
Northumbria.
sonuit fletus & ploratus
Quando vir cum gregibus fugit desolatus
Panem petit parvulus nec est sibi datus
Ex hinc lamentabiles dabat ejulatus.
Tunc fugit plebs ululans partes ad australes
Non succursus hominum sperans aliquales
Set inter angustias voces promunt tales
Cuthberte nos adjuva si quomodo vales.
Cuthbertus non immemor tante seritatis
Et vim grandem sustinens sue libertatis
Sic precatur dominum nostris pro peccatis
Horum sors et victoria cessit desperatis.
Ad Dunelmum properant Scotti maledicti
Deridentes Anglios ac si essent victi
Ad nemus de
Beureparke
festinant predicti
Ubi erant postea fortiter afflicti.
Figentes tentoria leti comederunt
Nam dispersos Anglicos nuncij
Monachi transmissi.
dixerunt
Scottis nescientibus prompti sed fuerunt
Aput
Aukland
Anglici mane ut viderunt.
Noctis sub silentio quando rex
David.
dormivit
Duglas
cum complicibus ad predandum ivit
Misit suos Catulos
Praedones.
huc illuc ut scivit
Set ruinam maximam venturam nescivit.
Luce in vigilia
Evangelistae.
sere in aurora
Venerunt ad
Merington
non in bona hora
Depredantur patriam voce cum sonora
Set in luctum vertitur risus sine mora.
Ipsis depredantibus ecce summo mane
Quedam pars exercitus gentis Anglicane
Bertram et Coupland
In predones irruit & fugerunt plarie
Omnes velut lepores persequente cane.
Sicut canes lepores insequi solebant
Sic nostrates
Anglici.
Scoticos ubique cingebant
In agris & semitis mortui cadebant
Quia sparsis cerebris stare non valebant.
Agmina prospiciens
Duglas
Anglicorum
Et progressum indicans sagittariorum
Non stetit ulterius ad tenendum sorum
Set ivit celeriter ad relictum chorum.
Exe
itum Scottorum.
Cum venisset igitur
Duglas
infra nemus
Dixit fratres surgite nova nos habemus
Ad arma concurrite & post ordinemus
Si pro nostro commodo sit ut nos pugnemus.
Tribus in agminibus venit gens Anglorum
Et in prima acie est gens Northumbrorum
Sunt viginti milia certe pugnatorum
Et
Percy
quem novimus ductor est eorum.
Si fas esset vincere ipsius vexillum
Et
Nevell
similiter qui stat juxta illum
Caperemus Anglicos tempus post pusillum
Et archiepiscopum
W. de Souch.
veluti pupillum.
Tunc dixit ut dicitur
David
ad majores
Non sunt nunc in Anglia viri bellatores
Non sunt nisi clerici atque portiores
Fient ergo martires isti confessores.
Non est nisi palea hec plebs congregata
Seges est in Francia valde fatigata
Capiemus Anglicos si permittant fata
Velut auceps volucrem cum sit inviscata.
Philippus
rex Franciae noster specialis
Nobis scripsit literam et est tenor talis
Non est nunc in Anglia sexus aliqualis
Caput qui defendore potest suum malis.
Wilham
Duglas.
illa agmina que sic indicasti
Ex defectu cerebri forte machinasti
Extra cursum solitum quia vigilasti
Tu ex uno homine duos estimasti.
Si tu sis perterritus vade vias tuas
Et fuge velociter ne percussus ruas
Donec habuerimus manus nostras duas
Non timemus Anglicos nec cautelas suas.
Ad hec verba motus est
Duglas
vehementer
Et circum astantibus dixit luculenter
Hodie non fugiam stabo sed potenter,
Et hoc luet plurimus incrassatus venter.
Non Anglorum domine curo de cautelis
Regnoque Scocie ero vir fidelis,
Quod si non credideris et probare velis
Hoc probetur hodie sactis non loquelis.
Tunc ad arma bellica Scotti concurrerunt
Clipeis ab aureis montes splenduerunt
Juxta regis latera fortes confluxerunt
Et pre magno gaudio
Query,
forte
tripudiaverunt.
Venit eo tempore missus a Priore,
Unus simplex monachus tractans de amore
Quem jussit interimi David in surore
Sed non ita sactum est ut precepit ore
Exeunt de nemore insimul globati
Gladiis et sustibus fortiter stuffati
Licet erant omnibus bene preparati
Erant nichilominus excommunicati
Scotis audientibus turmas segregatim
En nostrates veniunt valde seriatim
Cum tubis clangentibus accedunt paulatim
Ad ictus et ad verbera convenerunt statim
Currunt Scottis ob viam mox architenentes
Et transmittunt Angelos
Sagittas.
ipsos persequentes
Sic purgati fuerant Scotticorum dentes
Quod sunt qui relicti sunt adhuc conquerentes.
Irrurerunt insimul Anglici & Scotti
Ut Leones rabidi circa praedam moti
Sed quod non dixerant culpas sacerdoti
Per ictus & verbera erant culpis loti.
Quia suspicabilis
Duglas
suit
David
Ad juncturam igitur primam festinavit
Quem in ictu oculi
Bertram
trucidavit
Vivus tam captus est licet non putavit.
Nescio quali ductus sit
David
fantasia
Recte cum Angligenis junxit alta via
Benedicto domini matre et maria
Non ut ipse dixerat stetit prophecia.
Prophetavit inscius ut pote volebat
Set non ita accidit sicuti dicebat
Laudes cum victoria sibi ascribebat
Set stetit oppositum antequam sciebat.
Stetit
Percy
dimicans fortitor cum Scottis
Henricus.
Cui magnates plurimi starent a remotis
Quod
Comes.
Augus
percipiens viribus cum totis
Ad
Percy
se properat cum ducentis notis.
Non averlunt saces
Comes
nec
Henricus
Donec victus fuerat omnis inimicus
Vix in campo steterat dives vel mendicus
Per quem tantus periit sanguis impudicus.
Tunc archiepiscopus de Suche qui est dictus
Ad creandos
Dandos ictus.
ordines venit valde strictus
Quotquot ordinaverat senciebant ictus
Ex hinc imperpetuum siat benedictus.
Fuit nam diaconus
Episcopi.
Mowbray
vir urbanus
At
que
subdiaconus
Robertus.
Okyll
ille canus
Qui ad istos ordines fuit tam prophanus
In occidendo.
Quod non potest fieri post haec capellanus.
Illi namque clerici dicti confessores
Quos
Davit
vocaverat atque portioris
Inabiles ad praeliandum.
Occidunt.
Absolvunt in fustibus suos derisores
Sicque jacent mortui velut peccatores.
Morique
Forte Moriss pro Mauretius qui in hoc praelio cecidit.
de
Moravia
vir inordinatus
Contra jus ecclesiae comes nuncupatus
Quia duxit conjugem non licentiatus
Nunc ad istos ordines fuit degradatus.
Thomas
cancellarius
Charters.
ducto regis
Davit
Qui pomposas literas saepius dictavit
Quia terras Angliae nimis adoptavit
Ipsum nunc exigua terra saturavit.
Comes de Moravia
Anglicis ingratus
A nostris magnatibus nimis honoratus
Quia venit contra nos cum David armatus
Jacet inter mortuos dire vulneratus.
Senescallus
Scotiae videns ordinatos
Super terram mortuos jacere prostratos
Ordinari
(Mori)
noluit inter memoratos
Iter sed arripuit inter effugatos.
Gens nostra viriliter stetit Anglicana
Set fugit celeriter turba Scoticana
Currebant per aspera insimul & plana
Sperantes evadere sed spes fuit vana.
Scotis fugientibus ipsos sunt secuti
Equites & pedites per paludes luti
Multi vero capti sunt multi sunt minuti
Panci set ad propria pervenerunt tuti.
Videns rex attonitus quod fugissent sui
Volebat se reddere sed nescevit cui
Volens vexillarius
Tho. Carre.
ejus vita frui
Dixit
Coupland
Johanni.
cape, hunc servus ejus fui.
Mox in
David
guttere
Coupland
misit manus
Sed in quantum poluit restitit prophanus
Velit nolit captus est sed ut vir urbanus
Fecit secum armigcr
Coupland.
volens quod sit sanus.
Set non ita sanus est quin architenentes
Cum sagittis ferreis visitabant dentes
Est unum proverbium dictum inter gentes
Deridentur saepius qui sunt deridentes.
Non erant nunc ordines nisi speciales
Qui non sunt mortui omnes capitales
Cumque congregaverat suos consodales
Senescallus Scotiae erunt generales.
Wath
qui sanctuarium Cuthberti destruxit
Fidelem qui militem occidens seduxit
Qui leonem catulos super nos induxit
Et comburens segetes risit et non luxit.
Wath
qui terras dividit quas non adquisivit
Alienas detinens pluresque concupivit
Qui vixisse potuit pace sed non scivit
Foveas confodiens in quas dissilivit.
Wath
qui regis Angliae filiam despexit
Propter unam pellicem quam sors sursum vexit
Lyam lippam oculis rex David dilexit
Set Rachel
Regina Scotiae.
pulcherrimam vix gaudens respexit.
Non laudetur aliquis propter istud factum
Nam fuit miraculum quicquid erat actum
Laudetur set dominus qui custodit pactum
Et Cuthberti praesulis vindicat jus fractum.
Laudes deceptorias cunctas respuamus
Et ad thronum gratiae preces effundamus
Ut per temporalia sic sic transeamus
Semper eternalia ne nos amittamus.
Amen.
.
Near the turnpike road leading from Durham to Newcastle stands AYKLEY-HEADS HOUSE, the property of Mr Francis Johnson, in a fine elevated situation, commanding picturesque views of several branches of the city of Durham, seen through various openings of the hills: The gardens and pleasure grounds are laid out in a good taste, and the adjacent lands are highly cultivated: This villa being within a mile of Durham, is a most desirable retreat: The mansion-house was built by Mr John Dixon, an eminent attorney at law, uncle to the present owner; and it is presumed, is not a place of higher antiquity, as we do not find it mentioned in any records, save the proceedings
in elegit
touching the possessions of Thomas Billingham in the middle of the last century, mentioned with Crookhall
Mr Cade has asserted, that there was a druidical grove here, the barrow being very conspicuous.—We admitted this account implicitly in a note to p. 2 of this volume, but have not been able to gain further information thereof.
.
FRAMWELGATE, called in the old evidences the borough of Framwelgate, being incorporated with the city of Durham, affords no matter for particular attention in this place; what is already said of the city or borough of Durham having immediate relation thereto. It consists of one long street leading from the bridge towards Newcastle
Framwelgate, Durham.
Liberi tenentes. Walterus Tailbojs tenet quodd'm maner. vocat.
Erlehouse
quond'm Ricardi de Kellowe & postea comitis D'Angos per cartam & servic forin. & red. per ann. lxiij s. jx d.
Johannes de Notyngham tenet unam plac. vocat
Morehous.
& red vjij s. x d.
Johannes de Thwenby, tenet j plac. vocat.
Spitilfate,
contin. per estimat. xvj acr. terrae & quend'm alium campum ad caput de Milburn slash ibid. per servic. forin. & red. lij s. vj d.—tenet j mes. & liij acr. & dimid. terrae & j plac. pro j. Fald juxta Wytton, per servic. sorin. et redd. per ann. xiv s. j d.
Johannes de Baumbrough tenet j mes. & lxj acr. terrae & dimid. quond'm Rob'ti Leycest. vocat
Drybourn-house,
per servic forin. & redd. per ann. xlj s. ij d.
Robertus de Massham tenet iij acr. vocat
Hesilsyd
sed de red. ignor.
Magist. Johannes de Hagthorp tenet maner de
Nettilworth
& xlj acr. terrae quond'm Mag'ri. Will'i de Lambeton per servic. ut supra, & redd. per ann. xxvij s.
Mag. hospitalis de Kypier tenet maner. de
Holmers
& lxiiij acr. & dimid. terrae in vj parcell. quond'm Will'i Wyld. & red. per ann. xxxiij s.
Terrae Scaccarij.
Will's Bowes chev. tenet boscum vocat.
Farnyley
red. v s.—Johannes Elvet & alij.—
Spiti'croft, Selknoll, Cadnesfeld, Graywast, Edeswast, Horsardleys, Keperlawe, Hurehill, Barara, Halyside, Snawdon, Hurehill, Warthall.
—Mag'r hospitalis de Kypier, tenet v acr. quond'm Will'i de Layton apud Fyndon & redd. iij s. iiij d.
Terrae vastae & redditus non soiut. sunt satis prolix.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Certain disputes having some time been agitated touching Shaw wood, the same was submitted in referrence to Sir Tho. Davison, who made his award, dated the 18th of December, 1666, and finally settled all matters relative thereto for the benefit of the city of Durham and Framwelgate, and the two Baileys.—It is to be observed that the original award was produced by Mr Christopher Mickleton, deputy register of the court of chancery of Durham, and was in his hands at his death. A full copy is among Randall's MSS. in Mr Allan's custody, but too long to be inserted in this work.
.
CROSGATE, which begins near the bridge, branches out into three limbs; South-street to the lest, and Allergate, or Allertongate, to the right. In the point where South-street separates from Crosgate, on an elevated situation, stands the church or chapel of St Margaret, to which you ascend by two deep flights of steps.
This church has suffered great alterations since its first erection; the architecture being various. The altar is ascended to by three steps, from which the chancel is five paces in length, being eight paces in width; the south side is laid open by a wide pointed arch; the whole extent of the chancel forming a spacious porch; the north side is opened half way by a small arch. The body of the church hath a center and two side ailes, is in length seventeen paces, and of equal width. The south aile is formed by three short round pillars, supporting circular arches; the north aile by three long small pillars, with circular arches. The church is lighted by five modern windows to the south, and four to the north, more ancient. It hath a tower
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population in this parish from 1660 to 1679
818
202
852
1760 to 1779
938
315
1021
Increase
120
113
169
Number of burials in the last year 63.—Computed number of inhabitants 1890.
.
St Margaret's is in the deanry of Chester, and a Peculiar belonging to the dean and chapter of Durham, formerly a chapel of ease to St Oswald's
St Margaret's chapel.
Clear yearly val.
l. 12s. 6d.—Yearly tenths 11s. 3d.—Certisi. val. 31l. 6s. 8d.—Real val. 120l.
It was augmented by lot with 1
0l. in the year 1748, and with an additional 200l. on the 3d of May, 1758, in conjunction with the dean and chapter of Durham, who settled and secured a rent charge of 40l. a year to the curate. In March, 1769, an act of parliament was obtained for the division of Crosgate moor, by which the curacy is advanced about 30l. a year.
CURATES.
Richard Collyson, cap. 1501.
Rich. Grethed, cap. oc. 1 Jun. 1521.
Sir Henry Morle, cur. oc. 12 Jul. 1564.
Car. Moberlay, cl. oc. visit. book bishop Barnes, 28 Apr. 1572: Was vic. of St Oswald's, 1574.
Mich. Patreson, oc. 3 Feb. 1577.
Jermanus Gardiner, oc. 1584.
Geo. Parkison, 1601.
Edw. Harrison, cl. 1628.
John Durie, A. M. oc. 1641.
Edw. Moorcroft, A. M. oc. Easter Tuesday, 1666.
Sam. Martin, min. oc. 1672.
Joh. Martin, min. oc. 12 Jul. 1694.
Philip Robson, 1703.
John Powell, A. M. 1713, p. m. Robson.
Will. Forster, A. M. 27 Oct. 1719, vic. of St Oswald, 1725.
Ra. Eden, cl. 14 Mar. 1722, p. res. Forster, second son of Laton Eden, vic. of Hartburn, Northumberland, deprived in 1732, for immorality, and died in Yorkshire.
Edw. Gregory, A. B. 2 Dec. 1732, p. dep. Eden.
John Wheeler, B. A. 4 Oct. 1753.
. In the year 1431, the inhabitants of this chapelry obtained a licence for the dedication of the church, and having sepulture there
Langley Rot. D. in dorso. Dat. 11 Dec. 1431. arch. dean and chapter.—
Randal's MSS.
E. reg. paroch. 20 June, 1739. The Rev. John Simon gave 12l. 12s. to the curate of St Margaret's, to be placed at interest for the use of the poor of St Margaret's chapelry.
1327. Un. burg. in Milburnegate. reddendo inde annuatim custodibus luminaris eccl'ie Ste Margarete, &c. 4 solidos argenti. Carta Walt'i Boney & Aliciae ux'is.
1328. Rob. Plawseworth, and Agnes his wife, gave out of a burgage in Allertongate, 4s. to the support of lights in this chapel.
1477. Joh. Blenkarn, &c. deliberaverunt unum antiphonarium quod quondam fuit ex dono p'dci Joh'is.— He'nd & tenend p'd'm antiphonariu. p'fato Joh'i Poton, cap'no ad terminum vite sue et post decessum suum remaneat ad p'd'cam eccl'iam, &c.
Many other rent charges for support of lights.
1385. An indenture touching the receipt of books for the use of the chapel.
1328. A grant of 4s. out of a burgage,
quod habui ex dono & concessione Will'i fil. Walt'i de Fysthe Carnificis de Dunolm. sustentacoi cereor. ardentium coram imagine be. Margarete in cancello dee. capelie. &c.
. There was an ancient chantry in this church, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin; but who was the founder is not known. The annual income was 7l. 14s. 8d. out of which is yearly paid to the king's receiver forty shilllings
Bishop Tunstall, in his fourteenth year, granted to Hugh Spark, tanner, and his heirs, two burgages in Crosgate, forfeited by the attainder of Tho. Blunt, of Durham, cook, for high treason.—Cursitors Rolle. —
Rudd's MSS.
On a black wooden tablet fixed to one of the pillars.
GABRIEL SWAINSTON, Generosus legum baccalaureus Obiit vicesimo secundo die Mensis Februarii, A. D. 1711. Aetat. suae 63. Qui dum vivus suit, saepius in animo revolvit ac ideo in tabula inde conficienda post mortem suam, et hic effigenda sub literis majusculis inscribi voluit, et ordinavit ad usum superviventium, (et praesertim ad usum Leguliorum, et aliorum in Curiis Juridicis versantium) Ista Juris Civilis Effata sive Axiomata laudatissima, et omni Encomio majora, tanquam Monumenta semper et ad semper observatu dignissima: Nempe HONESTE VIVERE ALTERUM NON LAEDERE JUSSUUM CUIQUE TRIBUERE,
On a large gravestone in the body of the church.
Depositum JOHANNIS DUCK, Baronetti Civitatis Dunelm. Senatoris, Viri prudentis, justi, benefici, Qui quam fuit in re familiari augenda foelix tam fuit in largienda liberalis; Et ne suae tantum aetati prodesset, Ptochotrophium Lumleiae xij pauperibus alend, Extruxit. Obiit An. D'ni MDCXCI. Aug. xxvj. Cum vixisset circiter An. LIX. Sub eodem marmore condita jacet ANNA uxor ejus, Foemina pia, prudens, Fortuna selix moribus felicior Dum sic vivit benefica, post mortem desiderata Ut quos vita junxit, nec mors quidem separaret Obiit Decemb. XIV. An. Dom. MDCXCV. Aet. LX.
.
The manor of Harberhouse lies within this chapelry, the ancient estate of the Forcers. In Hatfield's Survey it is said, that William Kellowe held the manor of Harebarowes at two shillings rent
Vide Harebarowes under title (Chester.)
; and we find Agnes de Kellowe died seised thereof in fee tail to her and the heirs of her body begotten by William de Kellowe, in the eleventh year of bishop Langley, A. D. 1417
Et Joha. ux. Joh'is Fossour est s. d'ce Agn. int. se & d'c'm Will'um de Kellawe legit. procreata & her. ipsius Agnet. p'p' & aetat. quadraginta annor. Cor. W. de Claxton. chiv. esc. co. Dun.
, and that Johan, the wife of John Fossour, was her heiress. On the 20th of October, in the first year of bishop Sever, John son and heir of Thomas son and heir, and John and Cecily his wife, had livery of Harberhouse, with lands in Kellowe, Plawsworth, Nunstanton, and Great Kellowe. It continued in the family of Forcer to the death of Basil Forcer, the last male of that house, who died about ten years ago.
The chapelry of
WITTON GILBERT
lies within the parish of St Oswald. The village is pleasantly situated on the north banks of the rivulet Brune, commanding a beautiful prospect to the southward; the ruins of Beaurepaire being the chief objects in front, with the adjacent wooded banks of the rivulet.
This church is dedicated to St Michael, and was founded in the year 1423
In the parish register is an entry of the ancient boundaries of this parish, and the following entry.
Memorandum. Q'd parochia de Wytton Gilbert, incipit ab Hennyburn aliter Hornbyburn ex parte orientali sequendo le Hordley usq. Conkburn, et ita usq. ad le Lech juxta locum vocat Nixon-howse, & sic ad le Marlpark usq. ad le Lech inter le Marlpark et Edmundsle-seld, et usq. ad le Sagarslaynhough et Blackburn sicut cadit in Were, et sic ascendendo rivulum de Blackburn a stagno d'ni epi juxta Kymlisworth usq. ad caput ejusdem rivuli, et sic de capite illius rivuli usq. Yvesmose qui est infra parcum de Beuepark; & sic ex descendendo versus boream per quoddam Siketum q'd cadit de Yvesmose usq. le Halywell in Myddilwodde, et sic ex parte occidentali per quoddam Siketum usq. dum dictum Siketum quod currit inter Stany
eses et Sclayt-slat descendendo per Wetchall & Ryding quousq. perveniatur in Broun infra parcum.
By a convention between the prior and convent, and parishioners of Witton Gilbert,
Ye sayde parishioners shall fynde all manner of charges whatsoever touching the chapell. And it is further agreed upon, by and betwixte ye abovenamed, yt the curat of ye saide Witton Gilbert, shall after the manner of a parson gather or have for his mayntenaunce all manner of tythes in kind Witton belonging: And yt ye sayd curat, by the agreement shall be tyed to no reparation of ye said chapell, but ye parishe itselfe, as may appear in the Euydence in the house of Durham.
In a booke called ye fourthe Carturye, fol. 98, Z.
W
6d. Spinl'm 1 z. Lawrentius Pilkington, curatus haec ad inven.
1614, 22 Feb. In quo die maxima fuit Nix, & incipit 5o Janu. & duravit quotidie nivente plus vel nimus 12o Martii, et hac tempestate tam homines quam bestiae multi sunt suffocati.
Ao D'ni 1627, 16 Dec. Maxima fuit tempestas Venti toto d. et circa hora q'rtam post prandium ventus fuit valde magnus, et tempestas fulguris et tonitrui maxima timida. pt. ea secuta est magna pluvia & Nix ad mediam noctem.
; William Battmanson and John Shephardson, soliciting the prior and his brethren under pope Clement III. It is in the deanry of Durham, being anciently a chapel of ease to St Oswald's; is a Peculiar belonging the dean and chapter of Durham, and not being in charge, pays no first fruits or tenths
At the west end of the chapel hang two bells.—Parish reg. begins 1570, 12 Eliz.
Certfi. val. 55l.—Proc. ep. 3s. 4d.—Pen. d. & cha. 3s. 4d.—Real val. 90l. exclusive of house, &c. 1772.
CURATES.
Joh. Browne, 1561.
Laur. Pilkington, cl. min. of God's word, 6 Feb. 1570, p. dep. Browne.
Mich. Pattenson; oc. 17 Jan. 1583.
Rob. Hawkesworth, 20 Jul. 1605, p. m. Pattenson.
Jos. Cradock, A. M. 14 Jan. p. m. Hawkesworth.
Henry Hutton, A. M. 4 Aug. 1635, p. ces. Cradock. —
A true vicar of Bray.
Edward Kirkby, A. M. 28 Sep. 1671, p. m. Hutton.
Joh. Smith, A. M. 1 Jul. 1684. p. res. Kirkby.
Abr. Yapp, A. M. 1695, p. res. Smith.
Tho. Drake, A. M. 17 Jan. 1716, p. dep. Yapp.—
A nonjuror.
Bryan Turner, A. M. 25 Nov. 1720, p. res. Drake.
Abr. Gregory, A. M. 1 Nov. 1738, p. m. Turner.
Ja. Douglas, D. D. 19 Feb. 1773, p. m. Gregory. —
Prebendary of Durham and rector of Stainton.
Thomas Richardson, p. m. Douglas.
Randal's MSS.
In the church-yard.
Hic jacet Johannes Smith. Qui permissione divina fulmine percussus expiravit 28 die Aprilis, 1728, Aetat. 42. Videte ut vigiletis & oretis, nescitis enim quando Tempus Futurum sit. I. H. S.
. The chapel being too small to contain the parishioners, a gallery was built at the west end in 1742. The manor of Witton Gilbert was the estate of Isabell, the wife of William Claxton,
esq
who married to a former husband William de Laton; on the issue of which first marriage Witton was settled in tail; of that marriage there was issue Elizabeth, who intermarried with Peter Tylliall, chiv
Inq. p. m. 15 Langley. P'dca Isab. ten. die quo. ob. si. & he'dib's de corpore suo & corp'e d'ci W'i de Laton, p'creat man' de Wytton Gylbert, &c. & q'd Eliz. ux. Petri Tylliall, &c.—Inq. p. m. 30th Langley, &c.
. It descended to Robert their son and heir, and in failure of issue came to his sisters and coheiresses, Isabel, who married John Colvylle, and Margaret, the wife of Christopher Moresby, in whose families it continued in moieties for a considerable time
Whitton Gilbert.
Thomas de Claxton tenet villam de Witton Gilbert, per servic. forin. & redd. per ann. xxs.
Elemosinar Dunolm. tenet quand. parcel terrae subtus Essh vocat. Aumenerlowde redd. per ann. ad fest. S. Cuthberti in Septemb. j. Libr'. Piperis.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Chester Ward book of rates.
 
£
s.
d.
Witton town, Witton hall, Fulford, Sacriston heugh, Acrousclose, Simperley, half Bearpark, Earls houses, Kimblesworth, out rent to Sir Gilfrid Lawson for Kimblesworth, Witton Gilbert vicarage, Colliery ib'm.
612
18
6
Grey's MSS.
Land tax at 4s.—County rate at 6s. 8d.
 
£.
s.
d.
Kibblesworth
5
16
8
Witton Gilbert
33
11
2
£.
s.
d.
0
5
6¾
1
10
7
/4
Registered estates.—John Clark 4l. 12s. 7.—Mary Fenwick 4l. 12s. 7d.—Ann Clark 4l. 12s. 7d.—Eliz. Langdale 20l.—
Mann's MSS.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population in this parish from 1660 to 1679 inclusive
231
69
193
1760 to 1779
223
57
264
Decrease
8
12
0
Increase
0
0
71
Burials in the last year 11.—Computed number of inhabitants 330.
. We find
Fulford
was the possession of the family of Lyndley, in the time of bishop Langley
Inq. capt. 6o bishop Langley.
.
KIMBLESWORTH in the old books is called a rectory; the church has long been gone to decay, and the parish united to Witton Gilbert: Was a discharged living in the deanry of Chester, and a Peculiar belonging to the dean and chapter of Durham: It lies about two miles east of Witton, and was given to the monastery of Durham about the year 1220. So far back as the year 1593 we find this church in decay
Kymblesworth.
Tenths 6s. 8d.—Proc. ep. 1s. 8d.—Clear val. 4l. 2s. 6d.
RECTORS.
William de Hilton, 1255.
Rob. de Hasilarton, 1308.
Joh. de Lytham
Wm Boven, 1353, p. res. Lytham.
Joh. de Derlington. 135.
Rob. de Ormesby, 1358, p. res. Derlington.
Tho. de Whome, p. res. Ormesby.
Hugh de Chilton, 1360, p. res. Whome.
Joh. de Sykethorp, 1371, p. res. Chilton.
Wm de Barker, 1374, p. res. Sykethorp.
Joh. de Ackliffe, p. res. Barker.
Rob. Carles, 1383, p. res. Ackliffe.
Wm de Bishopton, 1394, p. res. Carles.
John Skirwith, 1406, p. m. Bishopton.
John Soulby, 1414, p. res. Skirwith.
John Clerk, 1416, p. res. Soulby.
Rob. Kemp, 1421, p. m. Clerk.
Rob. Foston, 1430, p. m. Kemp,—
was bishop of Elphin, and suffragan bishop to bishop Langley.
Tho. Ryhall, 1434, p. m. Foston.
Rich. Creswell, 1462, p. res. Ryhall.
Rob. Clerk, 1465, p. res. Creswell.
Joh. Pykering, 1478, p. res. Clerk.
Joh. Woodfal, 1483, p. res. Pykering.
Ra. Hamsterley, 1484, p. res. Woodsal.
Hen. Merington, 1487, p. res. Hamsterley.
John Young.
Chr. Blunt, 1519, p. res. Young.
John Tyndale, 1520, p. m. Blunt.
Rob. Hertborne, 1526, p. m. Tyndale.
Joh. Smythe, 1 Sep. 1543, p. m. Hertborne.
Rob. Crawforth, 25 May, 1560, p. m. Smythe.
Laur. Pilkington, 1572, p. dep. Crawforth, col. by bishop on lapse 19 Jan. 1583, p. m. Pilkington.
Mich. Pattenson, cl. 1583,.—In his time Kymblesworth was united to Witton Gilbert.
Witton par. reg. 1601. The church was quite gone to decay, however Maria Stoke peregrina in domo Edw. Robinson, de Kimblesworth, recepta intuitu paupertatis septula in cancella de Kimb. 28 Feb. 1623.
Randal's MSS.
1. Guillim, p. 388, we find the arms of Nath. Johnson, of Kiblesworth, in the county of Durham, chief farmer of the chimney money of his majesty for the four northern counties, viz. party per pale sable & azure, a saltire arg. charged with 5 cocks sable, between 3 flaming towers and two spears in saltirewise in base, or.
One of Langley's chantry clerks did duty at Kimblesworth.
; and by entry made in the parish register of Witton, it appears the parishioners came to the following agreement,—
The Ascension-day being the 9th day of May, viz. Ao D'ni 1593, Mem. That the day and year abovesaid it is concluded and agreed upon between the parishioners of Witton Gilbert and the parish of Kymblesworth, that for ever hereafter, it shall be lawful for the said parishioners of Kymblesworth, in respect of their want of a church at Kymblesworth, to come to the said church of Witton aforesaid to divine service and sacraments, and whatsoever other rites, viz. burials, weddings, and churchings accordingly as law requireth. Provided always, that our byshop of Durham and Mr Dean do not withstand or let this their grant and agreement. And in consideration of this abovesaid agreement, the aforesaid parishioners of Kymblesworth shall ever hereafter pay or cause to be paid unto the said church of Witton Gilbert, all and all manner of sessments accordingly to their ancient rent, to pay to the said church of Witton as they pay, viz. so much of the pound as they lay for themselves. And where it was agreed, that in respect of the surplice and other things, that the said parishioners of Kymblesworth should pay 11s. viijd. which 11s. viijd they did pay unto the hands of the church-wardens of Witton Gilbert, upon Trinity Sunday the year abovesaid
This extracted from the parish register, under which is the following certificate.
"Least the above written memorandum should have bin lost, its here saithfully and word for word transcribed out of the old paper into ye regr. by me.
"Joh. Smith, cur. of Witton-G."
.
Ra. Eure died seised of the manor of Kymblesworth in the fourth year of bishop Booth, and livery was made to his coheiresses, Ann, the wife of Ra. Constable, Isabel, the wife of William Constable, and Henry Thwaites, his cousins, on the 24th of September, in the first year of bishop Sherwood
Cursitors Rolls.—
Rudd's MSS.
, 1485.
Sacriston-heugh, as part of the possessions of the cathedral church, is before noted. Of Simperley we find nothing remarkable in the records.
LANCHESTER CHURCH
The Parish of LANCHESTER
The Parish of
LANCHESTER adjoins to Witton-Gilbert. It is very extensive, having now three chapels of ease belonging to it, Esh, Satley, and Medomsley. There are the remains of other chapels; one at Old Hall, one at Rowley Gillet, one at Collierly, and another at Esp Green; but no evidence of their date or rights has come to our knowledge. This parish, to the north-west, adjoins upon Muggleswick, near Horslipburn, and the parish of Wolsingham; to the southward, on Brancepeth and St Oswald's, with Witton-Gilbert; eastward, on Chester; and, northward, on Tanfield chapelry, and Whickham parish.
In the extracts from the Boldon Buke, given in the notes, the reader will find the servile tenures of lands in this parish. The villains were bound to mow the lord's meadow, and win and lead his hay; when they mow'd, they were to have from the lord their mess called a
Corrody
The word
Crowdy
is a name in general acceptation in the north for a mess of oatmeal mixed with water, which is the diet of the Scotch shepherds, and much in use among the common people of the northern counties of England.
; they were to drive the lord's hogs from the forest after the mast and pannage season, on which latter duty each received a loaf of bread. Some held their lands by more honourable services, as attending the lord in his forest-hunt in Weredale, called in all the records
Magna Caza,
or the Great Chace, with one or more greyhounds, and going upon embassy; such was the tenure of the lands of Hulfus, Ulkillus, and Meldredus, in this parish. The punder had lands assigned as a gratuity for his office, besides a fee from the inhabitants called in the record
Trava
A
thrave
of corn is a term used in this country to express 24 sheaves—a proper see to the punder for protecting the crop.
, rendering to the lord forty hens and three hundred eggs
LANGCHESTRE.—In Langchestre sunt xlj bovatae unaquaq. de viij acris, quas xx villani tenent. & reddunt. de unaquaq. bovata xxxd. cum auxilio cotmannorum falcant totum pratum & levant foenum & quadrigant & adducunt porcos de pannagio, & dum falcant semel habent
corrodium,
& cum adducunt porcos habet unusquisq. unum panem.
Hulsus tenet ibid'm lx acras & reddit. xvis. & vadit in legationibus episcopi, & venit in magnas cazas cum j leperario.
Ulkillus & Meldredus tenent fimiliter xl acras, & reddunt xijs. vjd. & vadunt in legationibus.
Orm tenet in j assarto viij acras & dimid. & reddit. ijs.
Uxor Galfridi personis tenet j toft & viij acras de elemosin. episcopi.
Quatuor cotmanni tenent viij acras & reddunt iiij s.
Punderus tenet vj acras & habet
travas
de villa de Langcestria & reddit xl gall. & ccc ova.
Prata sunt in manu episcopi & vaccaria.
Praeterea v bovatae de villinagio sunt vastae & similiter xviij acrae quae fuerunt de dominio.
Molendina reddunt viij marcas.
Et singulae ij bovatae de villinag inveniunt j
cordam
in magna caza.—Boldon Buke.
LANGCHESTR.—
Liberi Tenentes.
—Walterus ate Hall tenet j mes. & x acr. terrae per servic.
orin. & red. per ann.
Haeredes Patricii de Kellowe tenet j clos. vocat. Patrick clos. & red. per ann. vjd.
Thomas Umfravill tenet juxta Holmeset x acr. terrae quond'm Galfridi Raghop.
Cotag.
—Ricardus Shephird tenet j cotag. cum gardin & ij acr. terrae quond'm Ric'i Morley; auxiliatur ad faleand. prata & levand. foenum ad quadrig. & adjuvat ad ducend. porcos de panag. red. ijs. vjd.—Tres alij tenent singuli j cotag. & ij acr. terrae & faciunt ut supra & redd. singuli ijs. vjd.
Terrae Bond apud le Forth.
—Johannes Shephird tenet j mes. & xxvj acr. terrae & dimid quond'm Ri'ci Morleys & solebat falcare prata d'ni pro parte sua ad auxilium cotmannor. & levat. foenum & quadrigat & adducit porcos de pannag. & dum falcat habebit semel corrodium, & cum adducit porcos habebit unum panem et red. per ann. viijs. x d.
vij alij tenentes tenent vj mes. & cx acr. terrae & faciunt ut supra & red. aequalem.
Terrae Scaccarij.
—Johannes Prentys & iij alij, &c.
Terrae Bond apud Newbigging.
—Johannes Fildyng tenet j mes. & xi acr. terrae & facit sicut Bond apud le Forth, red. iijs. viijd.—Thomas Hill & xxvj alij tenentes tenent xxvij mes. & dimid. j mes. cum divers. acr. terrae in vario numero reddendo per ann. cert. reddit.
Terrae Scaccarij.
—Johannes de Hull tenet iij acr. terrae quond'm Rad'i de Newbiggyng & red. per ann. xijd.—Johannes Fildyng & xvij alii tenentes tenent. xvj mes. j toft & ij claus. & diverf. acr. terrae, reddendo certos redditus annuatim.
Omnes tenentes tenent inter se pastur. &c. Smalhop sord xxd.—xiij acr. prati de domin. xvjs. xd. ob.— xiiij acr. terrae in Smalhop iiijs. x d. &c. & alij.
Radulphus Milner tenet molend. de Langchestr. & Burnhop quae solebant reddere-per ann. viijl. vs. viii. modo reddunt per ann. ad iiij terminos vj l. v s. v d.
Terrae Scaccarij apud Hurtbuk.
—Johannes Younger & alii.
Punderus de Langchestr. red. pro officio suo ad. festam Natalis & Paschae xl gallin. & xxxviij ova.
Hatfield's Survey,
Within this manor are the vills of Roughside and Rowley, Kyo, Billingside and Peth, Benfieldside, Buttesfield, Broomsheels, Colpighill and Satley, Burnop and Hamsteels, Broom, Plass, and Lanchester.
De parcarijs epor. Dun. bosci sui de Lanchester.
Ball. forestar. ward. de Lanchester in foresta e'pi de Lanchester pro vita. (Fox) &c.
Mickleton's MSS.
. We observe also by this record, that part of the villain service was providing
j. cordam in Magna Caza
This is an obsolete term, and not easily defined. We read in some records,
Foenum autumnale cordum;
and in others,
foenum cordum,
which signifies the latter math. or lateward hay; so we presume this villain service was providing hay or provender for the prelate's horses at the chace. We also find in the law books the word
cordus
applied to measures of wood, and was ascertained in quantity as to the length of the billet, and breadth and height of the pile.
.
Robert Lovel, 16 K. John 1214, held the lordships of Longchestre (the Roman
Longovicum
) and Thornton up the Weye (Were) whereof there was livery at that time made to Robert de Gaugi, who had marryd Beatrice, daughter of Isolde, niece and heir to the same Robert
Dugd. vol. i. p. 558, 679.
.
The church is a fine building of hewn stone work, covered with lead; its revenues were swallowed up at the suppression of religious houses, a scanty allowance and a laborious cure being left to the officiating minister. The south front of the church is disfigured by a deep porch of fifteen feet: There is an aile on each side of the nave, formed by two rows of three beautiful round pillars excellently proportioned, supporting pointed arches, carved with the zig-zag figure; the nave is about forty-five feet in length, and twenty in width, lighted on each side by four upper windows, of two lights each, square topt; the ailes exceed the length of the nave some few feet, and are not of equal widths, the south aile being about nineteen feet wide, and the north only fifteen, lighted by three regular windows similar in form to those above, and a window at the east end, having a pointed arch: In painted glass in this window is a coat of arms, impaling Tempest, and under an arch in the side wall of this aile is the recumbent effigy of an ecclesiastic with his hands elevated, clasping a chalice, well cut in black marble
We are inclined to believe this is the tomb of Stephen Austell, one of the deans, who died 27 Feb. 1461. The marble of the tomb is of that sort won near Stanhope, in this county.
Thurstan Ryston, rector of Stanhope, and Rob. Southeroun of Durham, chaplain, by their charter of feofment, dated 14 Apr. 1462, gave to the churchwardens and other parishioners of Lanchester, two tenements and eighteen acres of land and meadow, with their appurtenances, situated in the vill and fields of Greencroft, upon condition that the said churchwardens cause yearly
placebo & dirige,
with mass to be solemnly celebrated in the church for the soul of Stephen Austell, late dean thereof, on his anniversary, viz. 27 Feb. and find a light burning before the image of St Catherine, where his body was buried.—Ex. orig. penes Geo. Clavering, arm. de Greencroft.
BOOK OF RATES.
Land tax at 4 s. in the pound.
 
 
 
County rates at 6s. 8d.
 
£.
s.
d.
£.
s.
d.
Ash and Flass
28
0
1½
0
16
0
Burnhope and Hamsteels
13
9
7
0
12
8¾
Bunfieldside
7
14
0
0
5
6¾
Butsfield and Satley
19
17
11
0
17
6
/4
Conset and Knitsley
15
0
0
0
9
6½
Greencroft
12
13
0
0
11
7 1/
Iviston
10
17
8
0
8
10
/4
Kyo
18
7
8
0
10
6
Langley
14
14
0
0
14
0
Lanchester and the Middles
20
18
10
0
19
11
Lanchester hamlets
20
8
8
0
13
3¾
Medomsley
47
19
11
1
8
2
Holmeside hamlets
23
2
3
1
0
9
Rowley and Roughside
8
0
2
0
5
6¾
Collierly and out-hamlets
12
12
6½
0
10
1
9 king George I. registered estates.
Yearly val.
 
£.
s.
d.
Holmside.
Mr Roger Meynald
10
0
0
Ash.
Sir Rich. Smith
374
2
10
Butsfield.
John Fewster
10
0
0
Ann Taylor
10
0
0
Burnhope.
John Johnson
12
0
0
Colpig hill.
Mrs Ann Coxon
91
10
0
veston.
John Taylor
20
0
0
Thomas Smith
24
0
0
Yearly value.
£.
s.
d.
Lanchester.
Ra. Widdrington,
esq
for tithes
170
0
0
Jane Wheatley
7
0
0
Mrs Ann Widdrington for tithes
400
0
0
Mrs Cath. Selby for tithes
12
0
0
Mr John Smith
19
0
0
Medomesley.
Lady Mary Swinburn
121
6
0
Satley.
William Taylor
16
0
0
Po
top.
Anth. Meaburn,
esq
93
8
0
Kyoe.
Ditto
296
15
0
Iveston.
Ditto
10
0
0
Rowley.
Ditto
34
0
0
Mann's MSS.
Book of rates 20l. 11s. 11d.—Value of lands 2455l. 7s.—
Grey's MSS.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population in this parish from 1660 to 1679
493
140
498
1760 to 1779
1442
418
1027
Increase
949
278
529
Burials in the last year 47.—Computed number of inhabitants 1410.
. The chancel is separated from the nave by a circular arch, all the mouldings of which are covered with a zig-zag figure; the groins rise from clustered pilasters: The chancel is about forty-one feet in length, and fifteen in width, having a large window of three lights to the east, in which there has been much painted glass; the figures of three sages bringing offerings to our Saviour remain, with an inscription
Ecce Magi verum deum Ador.
There are three windows to the south, two of which have two lights, and the other three, all under pointed arches: In the north wall is a large arch, where six stalls are fixed, the seats of the prebendaries, neatly built of oak, and decorated with carving
The stalls for the archbishop and canons on the south side of the chancel have been altered since the Reformation.
Licence to Adam de Bowes to give lands in Lanchester to Hexham priory.—Rot. bishop Bury. Cursitors Rolls, Rudd's MSS.
. Over the vestry door, on the north side of the chancel, is a sculpture of a person sitting in a chair of state accompanied by cherubs suspended in the clouds. The tower is rather heavy, being a square of twenty feet. The whole edifice is kept in neat order.
It was said, that on placing regular canons in the cathedral church at Durham, Lanchester was one of the establishments instituted for the reception of the seculars; but we find no authority to support that idea: Till the time of bishop Bek, this church was merely rectorial
Rectors.
Henricus occurs rector 1147.—Philippus de Sancta Helena, 1221.—Mag'r Alex. de Alvertona. —John de Cravene pbr' 8 Kal. Apr. 1283, p. m. Alvertona, appointed defensor ecclesiae.—
Randal's MSS.
: But he, among other works of munificence, in the year 1283, upon a vacancy by the death of the rector, appointed John Craven priest, the lawful defender of the same, the patronage belonging to the bishop; and being sensible the revenues were sufficient for the maintenance of several ministers, of a considerable part whereof it had lately been defrauded, he ordained that it should for the future be collegiate
It was valued in the Lincoln taxation at 90l. 13s. 4d. but 26 Hen. VIII. at no more than 49l. 3s. 4d. and was granted 7 king Edw. VI. to Simon Weldbury and Ch. Moreland.
Vide Mon. Ang. vol. iii. p. 2, p. 38, 39. Cart. 20, Edw. I. n. 26, in qua recensentur ordinationes et statuta fundatoris. Eandem cartam in Prynne, vol. iii. p. 462.—
Tanner's Notitia.
The deanry is
42
0
0
Preb. of Eshe
8
13
4
— Medemsley
7
6
2
— Newbigginge
2
10
0
— Langley
3
0
0
— Iveston
5
6
8
— Causide
2
0
0
— Greencroft
4
13
4
All formerly in the bishop of Durham, who hath now the placing of the minister, and he receives from the king 10l. p' ann.—
Vide Prynne, vol. iii. p. 462.
At the dissolution this church became a curacy, and not being in charge, pays no first fruits or tenths. It is dedicated to All Saints.
Certifi. val. 14l. 8s. 4d.—Proc. ep. 1l.—Bishop Crew's legacy 10l.—Surplice fees about 20l.
CURATES.
Sir Rich. Miller, or Mylner, oc. 21 July 1562.
Miles Watmough, 31 Jan. 1586, p. m. Miller.
Rob. Hunt, A. M. lic. 15 Sep. 1624.
Tho. Thompson, lic. 30 Sep. 1635.
Josias Dockwray, an intruder, deprived 1662, after a conformer, and LL. D.
Josias Dockwray, A. B. 1663.
John Martin, A. B. lic. 15 Jul. 1669, p. res. Dockwray.
Alex. Eagleston, 1682.
Tho. Scaise, 1686, p. res. Eagleston.
Rob. Carr, 1694, p. res. Scaife.
Joh. Bryding, A. M. 1695, p. res. Carr.
Rob. Richarby, ent. 10 Sep. 1721, p. res. Bryding.
Miles Patrick, cl. lic. 17 Sep. 1731, p m. Richarby.
Will. Adey, cl. lic. 14 Sep. 1744, p. m. Patrick.
— Dent. cl. 1778, p. m. Adey.
Randal's MSS.
On a brass plate formerly fixed to a stone in the middle of the chancel.
Orate pro anima mag'r Ioannis Rudde in Decretis Baccalaurii quondam Decani hujus Ecclesiae qui obiit xxix. die Septembris, Anno D'ni MCCCCLXXXX. cujus animae propitietur Deus animarum.
The tithes of grain of Lanchester and Newbegin, parcel of the rectorial rights of Lanchester, were granted in see farm by letters patent of queen Elizabeth, dated 9th Feb. 30 year of her reign to Downing and another, they conveyed to Crompton, and another, by indenture, dated 23 June, 34th of Elizabeth; they by indenture, dated 28 May, 43d Elizabeth, sold to Rante and others, who, by indenture, dated 10th July, 4th k.
. I. conveyed to George and Peter Warde, and they to Sir Nich. Tempest, of Stella, 13 Nov. 1610.
Randal's MSS.
, with a dean and seven prebendaries, and established the following statutes for the government thereof; whereby it was directed, that the dean should always be a priest, residing there, and having cure of souls, to find two proper chaplains, habited like the vicars of the canons, for his assistance; that he repair and keep up the chancel, but be not obliged to any new building: That he cause the chapels of
Eshe, Medmesley
and
Helay,
(Satley) to be served by proper ministers; for maintaining of all which he was to have all the obventions of altarage, as well in the church of
Langecestre,
as in the aforesaid chapels, viz. of offices for the dead, wool, lambs, milk, calves, colts, hens, geese, pigs, flax, hemp, and of all small and personal tithes, with the lands, meadows, services of lordships, revenues, and courts of all tenants of the church, as also the pensions of
Collierley
and
Sateley.
The dean to have the messuages belonging to the aforesaid chapels, with their courts and lands, excepting that the prebendaries of each of them should have one part where they might lay up their corn. Each of the prebendaries who had the three first prebends, was to find a vicar chaplain at his own cost, and each of the other four, a vicar in holy orders, to serve the church in the habit of canons, and observe the method of singing as practised in the church of York or Sarum. Each in his turn to be
hebdomadarius,
and the dean to take care of all things relative to divine service, and to make rules and correct them. Mattins to be said in the morning for the sake of the parishioners. To the
first
prebend was assigned the farm-fees of all
Essche, Corneshows, Hedley, Hamsteles,
the lower and the upper
Bromsheles,
and the land of Matthew the Forester. To the
second
prebend those of
Medmesley, Hussetres, Kighou, Bursblades, Billingside, Bradeley,
and
Croke.
To the
third
those of
Grenecrofte, Holmside, Colpyel, Steley, Buclesfelde,
the smith's land and
Scatigurley.
To the
fourth
those of
Langeley, Riddinge, Stabbileye, Brome, Notesteles, Brunhope, Langecestre,
and
Peche.
To the
fifth
those of
Helay, Conkesheved,
and
Kincheley.
To the
sixth, Yenestane,
and
Benefeldside.
To the
seventh, Morileys, Neubegginge, Hurtibuke,
and
Fordes.
The church-yard, with the buildings, to be divided by the archbishop between the dean and canons for their dwelling. The first stall in the church, on the south side, to be for the archbishop; the first on the left for the dean, and so the canons on both sides in order. These statutes were confirmed by king Edward I. in the 20th year of his reign, 1293
Dugdale's Monast. Anglican. vol. iii. p. 38.
Deans.
Mag'r Joh. de Craven, p'br. 1283.—Mag'r Will. de Marclan, oc. Dec. 1311.—Will. de Qwycham, 1313.—
Vide Wilkins' Concil. vol. ii. 397.
Mag'r Joh. de Newbigging, oc. 19 June, 1350.—John de Derby, collated 2 Aug. 1369.—Sir Joh. Burgeys, 1383.—John de Cokyn, 18 May, 1399.—Joh. Dalton, ob. 1409.—Joh. Hunteman, S. T. B. 25 Jan. 1409, p. res. Dalton.—Will. Browne, 1416, p. res. Hunt.—Will. Aslakby, 1421.—Steph. Austell, ob. 27 Feb. 1461.— Joh. Rudde, B. D. ob. 29 Sep. 1490.—Tho. Thomyoo, D. D. 1490, p. m. Rudde.—D'nus Lanc. Claxton, capel. col. 7 Apr. 1496, p. m. Claxton.—Rob. Hyndmer, col. 2 Apr. 1532, p. m. Claxton—He was dean at the dissolution, and had a pension of 20l. allowed him, which I find was paid in 1553.—
Randal's MSS.
MSS. Harleian,
No 605. This deanry was by warrant of the lord protector Somerset, leased to Thomas Gerrard,
esq
16 Oct. 2d Edw. VI. ao 1548.
Willis's Hist. Abbies,
vol. ii. p. 74. Pensions paid in 1553, to Lanchester college.
 
£.
s.
d.
To Robert Hindmere, dean
20
0
0
To Will. Frankland, preb. of Eveston
3
0
0
To Lancelot Knagge, preb. of Butfield
2
0
0
To Rich. Burncheper, preb. of Medeslaye
5
6
8
To John Kyller, preb. of Grenecrosse
4
13
4
To Wm Knagges, of Esne
5
0
0
Rymer's Foedera. vol. xxviii. pat. k. Ch. I. 14 Mar. 1626. In the grant for life to queen Henrietta Maria consort to k. Cha. I. 1626, is a fee farm rent of 43l. 10s. paid out of the d. of Lanchest.—
Note vol. i. p. 1224.
Donatio terr. in Dameleyes in Stubbiley a d'no Auth. ep. Dun. concessar. Joh'i Ville; with an inspeximus and royal confirmation.—
Ex. orig. pen. Tho. Gyll, arm.
.
Lanchester appears to have decreased greatly of late years, and now is a mere stragling village, placed in a warm and well-sheltered valley, with a fine stream of water, called Smallhop Burn, running through it. The scite of the old deanry-house enclosed with a moat remains, but no edifice: Several fertile inclosures skirt the town, and the improvement of land advances rapidly.
At the distance of a quarter of a mile, on an eminence towards the west, are the remains of the great Roman station, which Camden called
Longovicus.
Dr Gale, in the Philosophical Transactions, No 357, calls it the
Castra Stativa,
where the soldiers were quartered in time of peace.
GLANNIBANTA, near Lanchester.
Mr Horsley supposes
Horsley's Britan. Rom. p. 450, 451.
Mr Camden was of opinion that Lanchester was the Roman
Longovicum,
and by what Dr Hunter hath written to the Royal Society about it, we have reason to rest in that conjecture; for he says, that several inscriptions have been dug up there, and the Roman street called
Watling street
lies through it. It is seated on the top of a hill, and overlooked by another. By the ruins we may discern it has been a much larger place, in a square form, and fortified with a thick strong stone wall, about which now both within and without are nothing but ruins and rubbish. It is probable that the buildings within the walls were all public, viz. temples, palaces, and stations for the soldiers, and perhaps lodgings for the garrison. No doubt this colony was adorned with many beautiful buildings. The inscriptions found here since Mr Camden's time are as follows.
N. B.
They are all noted in the following extracts.
When I was last there I looked at the pillars which had supported the floors of what is supposed to have been a balneum They were not all alike, nor of a very regular figure, but yet there was some similitude and proportion between them; they are all about two feet and five inches high, perhaps two Roman feet and a half. The angles or corners of four square stones rested on each of these pillars, and between each, two pillars was more than a yard distance. Upon the square stones had been a plaistering about four inches thick, consisting of lime and small pieces of brick. The marks of fire and smoke were very visible when they first discovered the place. I was also informed that there was another set of pillars underneath, which supported another such floor, and some sort of metal upon it, on which the upper set of pillars rested. The lower pillars stood upon a blue clay, and the intervals between them were filled up with earth and rubbish. It was conjectured that the first had failed or been destroyed, and that the second had been built on its ruins. Above this (according to the account I had, for there are no remains of it now) was a square room, having each side about four yards long, and the walls plaistered in the same manner, and with the same materials as the floor. The altar hereafter described was found at the east end of this room, with its back undressed towards the wall. I have been more particular in this description because it has not been sufficiently given before; but the other remains and monuments here I shall also largely describe.
There is a very considerable tumulus about a mile from Lanchester, called the
Maiden Law,
and probably the military way has not been far from this tumulus.
No 2, plate.
Imperator Caesar, Marcus, Antonius, Gordianus pius felix Augustus Balneum cum Basilica, a solo instruxit per Gneium Lucilianum legatum Augustalem Propraetorem curante Marco Aurelio Quirino praefecto Cobortis primae Legionis Gordianae.
This and the next are two curious and useful inscriptions, which, with most of the following, were made public in the Philosophical Transactions, No 266, 354, from Dr Hunter, and have most of them been inserted in Camden. The originals are now in the library at Durham. Mr Gale thinks, that the
Legio
here called
Gordiana,
was the
legio sexta victrix,
which continued so long in the north, and had its stated quarters at York, whilst the other legions had their's at a much greater distance. Yet we have an inscription at this very place by the leg. xxvv. which was employed not far from hence in building or repairing some structure, as appears from the inscription at Whitley castle, in Northumberland. These inscriptions are valuable, as they have preserved to us the names of two propraetors, which otherwise must have been lost. For as Mr Gale observes, from
Virius Lupus,
who was propraetor under Severus in the year 208, to
Nonnius Phillippus,
(whom he believes to have succeeded the latter of these here mentioned) to the year 242, the name of no other propraetor or legate is any where else to be met with. It is highly probable that the two here mentioned immediately succeed one another, because both inscriptions were erected not only under the same emperor, but under the same commander of the cohort
Aurelius Quirinus,
who had the care of both these works. This, as Dr Hunter informs us, was found about one hundred yards cast of the fort, the other within the sort, which confirms Mr Gale's opinion, that the soldiers lodged within the sort. The
Basaliacae
of the ancients were public buildings, in which causes were heard, and merchants met for business; they were adorned with pillars and covered walks: Vitruvius has given a description of them, and so has Palladio from him. This stone is broke through the middle, and some of the letters are damaged or lost, but it is easy to supply them. And this inscription seems rather to be worse cut, and to be the later of the two. As for the
pre
for
per
and
Gn.
for
Gneium
in the fourth line, it would be easy to produce other parallel instances, as also of
L
for
Legionis.
But Mr Ward is inclined to think
that
pre
at the beginning of the fourth line was not designed for
per,
and that the following word should not be read
Gneium,
but
Egnatium,
a name that frequently occurs in Gruter. His reason for reading it thus is, that in all such mixtures of smaller letters against the middle of larger in the same word, the word always begins with a letter of the larger size; and as for the
E
he imagines it was not intended to serve both words by being read twice, because in such cases, which are very rare, the letter to be repeated is always found in a complex character. He supposes, therefore, that there has either been a small
e
between
PR,
which is now defaced, or that it was designed to be put there, but was forgot, as it easily might be.
—
Horsley,
No 11, p. 289.
☞ The reader will refer to a learned treatise on this subject in the additions to Gordon's Iter. Sept. p. 12, too long to be inserted here.
No 3, pl.
Imperator Caesar Marcus Antonius Gordianus pius felix Augustus principia et armamentaria c
nlapsa restitu
per Maecilium Fascum Legatum Augustatem propraetorem curante Marco Aurelio Quirino praefecto cohortis primae Legionis Gordianae.
So much has been said already concerning this inscription, under the former and another in Northumberland, that little more need be added here; it may not be amiss to observe, that the Emperor's name is here at length
Antonius,
as it is printed also in the
Fasti Consulares.
We have likewise some other instances of it in Montsaucon. Mr Gale says, that the
armamentaria
signify the arsenal, and
principia
the quarters either of the legionary soldiers, called the Principes, or the place where the ensigns are kept. But from a passage in Tacitus, one would rather conclude the latter to be the general's pavilion.—
See Gordon's Itin. Add. p. 14, and Horsley, No 12, p. 290.
N. B. Maecilium in the original Durh. lib. is Mercilium—W. H.
No 4, pl. I believe this was set up by the same cohort as the two former. It is much of the same sort with those which I have frequently observed to be erected by legions and cohorts in the face of some work they were building. The last letter has frequently been mistaken for a
T,
but in the original it is evidently an
I,
with the usual numeral stroke above it, and so can be nothing else but
cohors prima.
—
Horsley,
No 13, p. 290.
Fortunae Augusti Sacrum Publius Aelius Atticus Praefectus votum solvit libens merito.
I know not what cohort Publius Aelius Atticus commanded who erected this altar. The word
Praefectus,
without any thing following, is not uncommon in inscriptions. The person where I lodged at Lanchester told me that this altar was found at the east end of a square room, which they discovered within the station, and the back of the altar is undressed. I know not whether or no the figure between the two leaves in the capital can be designed for the sun.—
Horsley,
No 14, p. 290.
Mr Horsley's correspondent had furnished him with a very inaccurate drawing; the cut was made from the original in the dean and chapter's library, in April 1776. The radiations Mr Horsley mentions are no other than the marks of the chissel round the cavity: The mouldings of this altar are as represented.—W. H.
No 5, plate.
Genio Praetori Claudius Epaphroditus Claudianus Tribunus Cohortis secundae Lingonum, votum libens posuit merito.
This stone looks like a pedestal, and seems by its regular square cavity at the top to have had something fixed upon it, but it is nothing like the base of an altar. The letters are tolerably well cut. I at first was doubtful if the first line might have been
Genio Praetoris,
but upon examining the original, I saw every letter very plain, and was convinced that there neither was nor ever had been an
S
at the end. I then thought it might be a flattering compliment to the un-named praetor, as if he was their genius or tutelar god. But my learned friend Mr Ward, judges this too high a compliment to be paid by a tribune to a praetor, and observes that
Genius
is a proper name frequent in Gruter. It is therefore my present opinion, that this stone has sustained some pillar, or somewhat of that nature; and that the monument has been erected to the honour of
Genius the praetor.
If we read
votum posuit,
the word
votum
must by a trope be taken here for the thing vowed, as upon another inscription we have
memoriam posuit
for
monumentum;
and upon another
votum fecit,
which expression in the common sense is not to pay a vow, but to make it. And thus Virgil seems to have used the word
votum,
when he says
"Lustramurque Jovi, votisque incendimus aras."
AEN. 3. xi. 279.
And likewise Petronius, in the following passage,
— "Stipant graves
"Equi recessus Danai et in voto latent."
SATYR, cap. 49.
where the same thing is twice repeated in different words, and both
equi
and
voto
denote the wooden horse, which the Greeks pretended to consecrate to Pallas;
votum pro redditu simulant.
This compliment is paid by Claudius Epaphroditus Claudianus, the tribune of the 1st or 2d cohort of the
Lingones.
The 2d cohort of these people was in Britain, as appears from other inscriptions, and in Camden, a smaller
I
is set before the other in this inscription, so as to make it plainly the second. There is, I think, room for it on the stone, but the part where it should be is broken or worn.—
Horsley
No 15, p. 290.
MAR.T.I D AVG D AVFIDI VS AVFI DIANVS The judicious antiquary, Dr Hunter, of Durham, was so obliging as to send me the copy of the inscription in the margin, which I sound to be very exact when I compared it with the original. The Doctor supposes it has been affixed to the face of an altar, and that the holes in the first line have been for this purpose. The plate is of gold, but very thin, weighing just two guineas, and the letters, which are very peculiar, are raised by an impression made on the inner side by some proper instrument. The plate is so thin that in some places it is struck quite through with the too
that has been used for raising the letters. It may be questioned whether we are to read
Marti Aug
sto,
and suppose the emperor to be represented as it were under the image or notion of the god of war, or
Marti Augusti,
and to suppose the emperor to be the favourite of Mars, or Mars to be the emperor's favourite deity. But as to this matter I shall only refer to what has already been said in a parallel case in Cumberland. The cut of the letters, particularly the
G,
looks like the lower empire; but I know no evidence whereby the particular emperor can be determined with any great probability. We have several other altars at this place, inscribed also to Mars, which have been taken notice of before. I have only to add, that according to Dr Hunter's account in his letter to me,
This plate was found in the year 1716, in a heap of rubbish cast out to clear an old foundation without the fortification of the garrison, a little south from the balneum.
It is now in the chapter library at Durham.—
Horsley,
No 16, p. 291.
No 6, plate.
Legio vicesima valens victrix fecit.
The corona here is supported by two winged victories, with the usual symbols and the usual drapery and attitude; the boar within may imply that it has been erected after some victory over the Caledonians by this legion. The stone is broken quite through, but the letters notwithstanding are very visible, and none of them lost in the breach.—
Horsley,
No 16, p. 291.
No 7, plate. This and the next are dedicated to Mars, and both but meanly performed. There is no name upon this, so we cannot tell by whom it was erected.—
Horsley,
No 17, p. 291.
No 8, plate.
Deo Marti Caii Aurelii susceptum votum.
The name of the person who dedicated this is Caius Aurelius; but who he was I suppose is unknown. This small altar has a
patera
on one side, and a
praefericulum
on the other.—
Horsley,
No 18, p. 292.
No 9, plate.
Deo Vitiri.
This is inscribed to the local god
Vitires,
but by whom is not said.—
Horsley,
No 19, p. 292.
No 10, plate. These three are all of them small altars, which have no visible inscriptions upon them. They have, I believe, been published only by Mr Gordon. The first has three female figures, which he very probably supposes to be some of the
matres.
The second has a toad on one side, and the usual sacrificing instruments on the other. I have only represented that side with the toad, as being more curious. The third has a pediment supported by two rude pillasters.—
Horsley,
No 20, p. 292.
No 11, pl. This small altar, with the
boar
on the side, and the inscription much effaced, is also ranked among these Lanchester inscriptions. Mr Ward supposes this altar might be erected to the god
Vitires,
and that the letters
Vit
were upon the first line, as we find them before; the second line is plainly
votum,
and the remaining letters upon the third line he thinks may be part of
Solvit.
This conjecture is favoured by another inscription of this county upon an altar dedicated to this deity, which has a boar upon one side: But I think it more likely that the latter part of the inscription has been the name of the person erecting the altar: The last letters are obscure and doubtful.
Besides these before mentioned, which are not at Durham, there are some curiosities remaining yet in the station or town, and among the rest a large stone almost like a mortar. What use it has been for is hard to determine; some of the people call it a font, others who are more skilled, think it has been designed to hold water for the Roman lustrations.—
Horsley,
No 21, p. 292.
No 12, plate.
Deo Marti Aci—.
This small altar was in a stone wall inclosing a field called Broomlawe near the station, belonging to Mr Rowland Wilkinson, but I have now got it into my own possession. The inscription has suffered very much by the weather. The remains of it look like
Deo Marti;
but it cannot now inform us by whom it was consecrated, though the last visible letters look like Acilius, a common Roman name, and which, I think, occurs in another of our inscriptions.—
Horsley,
No 24, p. 293.
No. 13, plate.
.
The capital of this altar and a small part of the inscription is broken off and lost, and the want of it occasions some difficulty as to the reading. When I first saw this stone it was built up in the wall of an inclosure. I viewed it several times in this situation, but then nothing appearing but the imperfect Greek inscription, the opposite part of the stone being entirely under cover, and built up within the wall. At first view I concluded it to be Greek, but could discover no satisfactory reading. When I had purchased the stone, and got it into my own possession, I was much surprised to see a Latin inscription on the opposite part of the altar. Which is the face and which the back of this altar, or whether like
Janus bifrous,
it was designed to be double faced, I shall not pretend to determine. However to have inscriptions both before and behind is a singular curiosity, of which I remember no parallel instance in Britain, unless the beautiful altar in Camberland be taken for such. But to have two such inscriptions in two different languages is yet more remarkable. Some suspect the Greek inscription not to be genuine, or that it has been added by a different hand and at a different time from the Latin. But I see no just reason to entertain this suspicion, because I cannot discern by whom or with what view it could have been added. So little was this altar regarded or valued, that according to the usual fate of such monuments, it was used as a common stone in the wall.
The high prices of curious Roman coins have produced a great many forgeries, contrived very artfully; but the little regard that has been had for monuments of stone, renders us more secure of their being altogether genuine. But to return from this digression; the sight of the Latin inscription enabled me to read the remains of the Greek one, I humbly think, with great probability; for I take the greatest part of the one to be much the same with the other, excepting the different language and character. I shall therefore speak to the Latin inscription as being more easy and perfect.—
Horsley,
No 25, p. 293.
No 14, plate.
Aesculapio Titus Flavius Titianus Tribunus votum solvit libentissime merito.
It appears plainly from this, that the altar has been erected by one
Titus Flavius Titianus,
a tribune, but no cohort is mentioned which he commanded. There are several consuls of the name
Titianus,
but the other name are different from that of our tribune.
Tiberius Fabius Titianus
appears five times in the Fasti, and at such a distance of time as to make it probable they were five different persons. This made me suspicious that the
T
in our inscriptions was to be read
Tiberius,
and that the following name might be
Fabius.
But the
Fl
are so distinct on the stone as to leave no room for a doubt. I find
Postumius Titianus
was consul in the year 301, in the time of Diocletian and Maximian. And Almeloveen conjectures, that this may be the same with one who is called in Gruter
T. Fl. Postumius Titianus.
This comes nearest the names of our tribune, but there is no arguing from hence with any probability that these two
Titiani
lived at or near the same time. But thus much for the person erecting this altar; the principal question is, to whom it has been inscribed? We have little to guide us in this but the letters
Pio
at the top, which are certain and distinct. I thought of
Antoninus Pius
and other emperors, to whom living or dead, and deified, this epithet
Pius
has been applied, such as
Divo Constantio Pio
and others. Baron Clerk was so obliging as to send me several conjectures about this Latin inscription, a copy of which I transmitted to him. Among other things, this very learned antiquary supposes, that
Pio
may be a part of
Aesculapio:
This conjecture is more agreeable and satisfactory than any thing that has occurred to myself, or been offered by any other. I think by the proportion of the altar, that there is not above one line of the inscription wanting, which might be filled up with
Aescula,
or with
Deo Aescula.
As for the Greek inscription, I believe it has stood thus when entire,
Pro salute Titus Flavius Titianus Trib. Votum solvit libentissime merito.
I observe, that there are five lines in the Greek inscription, and but four remaining in the Latin, and that the stone is rather higher on the side of the Greek inscription than the other. This induces me to think that the imperfect remains at the top have been a part of the first line of this inscription. I need say nothing to shew how suitable this reading is to the remains on the stone, and to the Latin inscription on the other side. Both the one and the other, I think, appear at first sight. That there were some here in this part of the island, who were willing to pay regard to the gods who presided over health and recovery, appears from the sculpture at Risingham, in Northumberland.
is the Greek word that generally corresponds to
Tribunus
in Latin. In the New Testament
is rendered
Tribunus,
and
cohors
by several. This is the second instance of the Greek character used in such inscriptions in Britain; the other is the famous altar at Corbridge. No doubt they have been erected by some auxiliaries which came from Greece, or the neighbourhood of it, such as the Thracians, &c. some cohorts of which were in Britain.—
Hor.
No 25. p. 263.
The letter from Sir John Clerk to Mr Horsley, we find noted in one from him to Roger Gale,
esq
in which the conjecture touching the word
Aesculapio
is mentioned, dated from Edinburgh, 12 Apr. 1730.
Reliquiae Galcanae,
p 262.
No 15, plate.
Jovi optimo maximo vexillatio cohortis Vardulorum & Consecraneorum equitum, v. s. i. m.
When I first saw this stone it was in the corner of a close belonging to Nicholas Greenwell, not far from the former; the upper part was broken off and built up in the wall, and the inscription covered, but upon removing it out of the wall, and comparing the two parts together. I perceived they had been originally united. I have since this got both the pieces into my possession, and so have had an opportunity of placing them one upon another. When this was done they tallied with so much exactness as to render it absolutely certain that they have originally made up one and the same altar. This altar is inscribed to
Jupiter optimus maximus,
and has been erected, as I take, by the vexillation of an Equestrian cohort, of the
Varduli Cranei,
people of Spain. The first word in the second line must, I think, have been
Vexillatio,
and the
o
perhaps has been a little one, and added near the top of the
I,
as we sometimes find it. I once thought I discerned it there, but own myself jealous that my imagination assisted my eye sight. The next word is plainly
Cohors,
but who the people have been of which this cohort consisted must be more distinctly considered. When I first viewed the two pieces as they lay separate, I read the name
Vardiorum.
These are a people of Dalmatia, mentioned with some variation of the name by Strabo, Pliny, and Ptolomy, but since I got them home and put them together, I have found that by the largeness of the interval there must have been two letters between the
D
and
O
in the third line. I have also discovered the sure remains of a
V
after the
D
besides the imperfect letter before the
O,
I make no doubt therefore but the name is
Vardulorum.
The two first letters in the fourth line of which there are any remains, seem plainly to have been
CR,
which I would have concluded to have been the initial letters of the name
Cranei,
and to have been read
Vardulorum, Craneorum,
or
e
Craneorum
if my first conjecture concerning
Craneis
in the Richester inscription could have been supported: But that being rejected, I am more at a loss for any probable reading of this part of the inscription now before us. I would gladly still make use of the one as a key to the other. And therefore if
Consecraneis
be read in the former, I am most inclined to suppose
CR
to be some part of an abbreviation of the same word in this. Possibly it has been
CSCR,
which supply seems not unsuitable to the vacant space on the stone, and perhaps
ET
has been at the end of the preceding line in letters of the same size; thus it would be
Fardulorum et Consecraneorum
in this as
Vardulorum cum Consecraneis
in the other.
EQ
in this fourth line is no doubt for
Equestris
or
Equitum.
The character at the end of this line is much the same with an
M
that is used for
Mille
in one of the inscriptions of Glasgow, but that it here signifies 1000 horse is more than I dare venture to affirm. We have
A
a
&
cohors milliaria
and
millenaria
in Vegetius and the Notitia. Goltzius, in his Thesaurus, has also
Cohors millenaria.
Titianus, in the preceding inscription is stiled
. Possibly this might be the millenary cohort which he commanded.—
Horsley,
No 26, p. 294.
No 16, plate. At first view this seemed to be an altar, with an urn upon the top; but I sound it to be somewhat like a flower-pot placed upon a square stone, which I suppose has been set for ornament in some proper place, and by the hole in the bottom it appeared to have been fixed upon something else.—
Hor.
No 27, p. 295.
Extract of a letter from Mr Horsley, to Roger Gale,
esq
dated from Morpeth.
10th
December,
1730.
Gale's MSS.
I have discovered the remains of a letter or two which had escaped me before, and now I read it
Jovi optimo maximo vexillatio cohortis
(or
Equestris) votum solvit libentissime merito.
The reading, which seems to lie pretty much out of the way, I have found out by the help of another late and lucky discovery; I mean a stone found not long ago at Richester.—[For this vide View of Northumberland.] The
Varduli Crarei,
though this latter name be usually wrote with a
G
at the beginning, are two neighbouring people in Spain, &c.
Extract from Mr Gale's answer.
As for the
OM
they can have been nothing but the remains of
Jovi optimo maximo,
and perhaps what follows is the remains of
Vexillatio,
though I am not without my scruples as to that. In the first place. I do not remember I ever met with such an expression as
Vexillatio cohortis,
or
cohortium,
though frequently with a
Vexillatio legionis,
which I take to imply a detachment sent off from the legion under a
Vexillu
m,
where we meet with those
Vexiliationes,
Leg. II. VI. XX. upon the wall in Scotland. Secondly,
Vexil
i
Equitum
is generally taken for
Cohors Equitum
but as there might be a detachment upon occasion as well from a legion, I will not insist upon that.
Vardulorum
is very plain upon this altar, though a name hitherto unknown in Britain; I wish the
Craneorum
was as much out of dispute, for the
Cr
that follow
VARD
I.
are the initials of that word, yet I cannot think they belong to
Vardulorum,
as you read them, because we find but one nation of the
Varduli
in Spain, and consequently no occasion for the add
tional
Cra
to distinguish them from any other of their neighbours that might have the same appellation. Pomponius Mela expressly calls the
Varduli Gens una.
As for the
Cranei
upon the Richester stone, I shall shew you plainly by and by that it is quite another thing. To this I am obliged to add, that I cannot find among my old geographers such a people as the
Cranei
or
Granei
in Spain, or any where else, therefore should be glad to know where you met with them. In the Richester inscription, &c. the
Cum con
— I read with the beginning of the seventh line
cum consecraneis,
a word not very common, but you have it in Julius Capitolinus's life of Gordian. c. 14.
Sacrati commilitiones uno etiam mei consecranei,
&c. This is
Ejusdem sacramenti militaris participes,
than which nothing can be more opposite, and leaves no room for the
Cranei.
Extract of a letter from Mr Horsley, on the same subject, dated
1
Jan.
1730-1.
I confess your letter has shocked my assurance, though I still hope my conjecture will not be quite overthrown.
Gravij, Graij,
or
Granij,
as I think it is sometimes written, are people not far from the
Varduli,
mentioned by Pliny and others. These were the people I meant and thought of. The change from
Granei
to
Cranei
is very easy, the word
consecranei
no where occurs in inscriptions, and no evidence of its being used till after the time of this inscription: But I only send this to beg excuse for the delay, till I return home, when I shall examine the Riechester stone.
☞ Mr Gale, in his letter from London, dated 16 Jan. shews the improbability of the people mentioned by Mr Horsley, being expressed in the foregoing inscriptions: The letter is long, and might not be esteemed sufficiently pertinent to have a place here.—W. H.
Extract of a letter from Dr Hunter, of Durham, to Roger Gale,
esq
dated
17
May,
1735.
I have had the happiness to meet with these two altars found lately at Lanchester, in the Roman station; the first within the ancient fortification, having its bottom broken off, and the initial letters of the last two lines. That of the last has undoubtedly been a
D.
The other was found in the next ground near the remains of the baths.
No 17, plate. 1.
Numini Augusti et Genio cohortis secundae Vardulorum Gregalium Equitum Millenariorum "sub Antisto Advento Legionis Augustae propraetore (fecto) F. Tirannus. Tribunus Dedicatq. revertenier rite.
2.
Deo Marti Sancidus lubenti animo.
These, with two portable altars, without any inscriptions, and a figure of Ceres, are presented to the worshipful James Clavering,
esq
who, in respect to such valuable antiquities, intends to entertain them in the avenues of his beautiful garden at Greencroft, about a mile distant from Lanchester.
Pliny is the only author we can gather any thing from remarkable concerning the Varduli, and that so very concise, I think deserves a place here. In conventum Cluniensem Varduli ducant populos xiv. ex quibus Albanenses tantum nominare libeat. Nat. Hist. lib. iii. c. 3. sect. 4, of the last Paris edition; and in lib. iv. c. 20, sect. 34, he enumerates the
Vardulorum Oppida, Morosgi, Menosca, Vesperies Amanum Portus ubi nunc Flaviobriga Colonia,
where Mr Hardoiun recites the modern names. And as Gruter's almost infinite collection affords no inscription where the
Varduli
are named, I presume the Roman oeconomy under the emperor Trajan, by descent a Spaniard, if not sooner, had abolished the old distinctions of separate governments, and reduced the whole province under one general name, Hispania, which afterwards the Notitia Imperij occidentalis divides into three consular provinces, under the direction of four presidents, viz. Farraconenis, Carthagineus Tingitania, Insula Balearium, and places no garrison of the Varduli in any fortress in the eastern or western empire.
The inscription upon the first is cut very fair. In comparing my copy with Mr Horsley's altar, No 26, Durham, belonging also to Lanchester, which is at present in the dean and chapter's library here, I observe a difference between the first letter of the fourth line, where
C
is very apparent: If my copy is true, I hope my reading may be allowed. The figure I call a Ceres is well cut; the left hand leaning upon a globe, which I take to be a
Lapis Molaris,
prompts me to term it so. One of the small altars has a toad upon the side, the same as one of the three mentioned by Mr Horsley in our library.
Answer to the preceding letter by R. Gale,
esq
dated London,
7
June,
1735.
As for the two inscriptions you sent me, I will venture to give my thoughts upon them, &c. The first of them is very curious, as it gives us the name of a
Legatus Augustalis
and propraetor hitherto unknown in Britain, and which ought, as I think, to be read as follows,
Numini Augusti & genio cohortis secundae Vordulorum Equitate Milliariae sub Antistio advento, Legato Augusti propraetore. F. Tiranus Tribunus dat dedicatque rite.
To read
GR
in the fourth line,
Gregalium,
is not a little doubtful: It cannot well be supposed that the tribune of the cohort would dedicate an altar to the deity of the emperor, and at the same time to the genius of the common soldiers, exclusive of the genius of the officers, of which he himself was one; and how to read it otherwise is as uncertain, if the letters are
GR,
as in your copy. But if they are
CR,
as on the altar given us by Mr Horsley, Durham, No 26, in his Brit. Rom. and which you say has
C
very apparent instead of
G,
they may denote
civium Romanorum,
and those
Varduli
people of Spain, and admitted to the freedom of the city of Rome for some extraordinary merit, or by some emperor's savour, perhaps their countryman Trajan's. This was a privilege frequently conferred upon foreigners, even whole towns and nations, and at last communicated by Antoninus Pius
omnibus in commune subjectis,
by which it seems as if this altar had been erected before this general grant of that emperor; for it is no great honour or advantage for these
Varduli
to value themselves upon, if they had enjoyed it only in common with all the rest of the world. Mons. Spanheim observes,
Exercit. prima ad constitution. Imp. Antonini de civ. Rom. quod sub. M. Antonino Imp. civitate donati essent quicunque in Romani orbis provinciis aut oppidis delecti essent milites ut praesidarij in imperij limitibus constituerentur.
This seems contradictory to the first mentioned grant, since it only confers the freedom of the city upon the soldiers in garrison on the frontiers of the empire, and the other gives it to all the subjects of the Roman empire without exception. Perhaps the soldiers had this advantage given them at first, and upon finding the encouragement it gave them to defend the countries where they were quartered, it was thought adviseable to admit all the subjects of the empire to the same privilege, to interest them the more in preserving the whole from the attacks of the barbarians: But there has been no small uncertainty among the learned to which of the Antonins this constitution is owing, some attributing it to Antoninus Pius, others to Marcus Aurelius, and Mr Spanheim with great reason to Antoninus Caracalla, from Dion Cassius chiefly, who tells us this privilege was granted to him
omnibus qui in urbe Romano erant,
not so much for the honour and advantage of it to the people, as for the filling his treasury, since it made them liable to the payment of several taxes, from which they were before exempted; so that the soldiers had this benefit conferred on them for their services, and the rest of the people afterwards most likely to drain their purses. In Gruter's Thesaur. p. 455, 6, is mentioned
Tantistius praefectus alae sulpiciae C. R. i. e. Civium Romanorum:
And in p. 459, 8,
L. Praesentius praefectus cob.
1.
Afr. C. R. E.
which is read
Praefectus cohortis primae Afrorum civium Romanorum Equitate,
just the same as this at Langchester, only changing
Afrorum
into
Vardulorum.
A
cohors Equitata
was composed partly of horse, partly of foot, as Vegetius informs us, lib. ii. cha. 2.
Prima cohors habet pedites mille centum & quinque; Equites loricatos centum triginta duos et appellantur milliaria.
I must own the cohors in this inscription is called
secunda Vardulorum,
of which an inscription was found at Riechester, in Northumberland.—[See Horsley's Brit. Rom. North. 94.] This second
cohors
of the
Varduli
might however be the
prima auxiliaria
of some legion, perhaps the sixth, and in more esteem for some eminent service or fortunate accident than the first, not dignified with the honourable title and privileges
civium Romanorum,
perhaps also independent of any legion. And after all, the sole reason why one of the cohorts was called the first, and the other the second, might have been from the priority of time when they were first raised. This
Antistius Adventus
seems also to have been
Legatus Augusti,
and propraetor in Belgium, from an altar found near Utrecht, where he is called
Caius Antistius
(vid. Reinesiis Syntagm. Ius. Class i. 24
.)
Jovi opt. Maximo Summano ex superamissimo soli invicto Appoltini, Lunae, Dianae, Fortunae, Marti, Victoriae, p
ci Caius Antistius Adventus Legatus Augusti propraetore dat.
and this justifies my
ing of his titles here,
Legatus Augusti propraetore,
and not
Legionis Augustae propraetore,
there being no mention of a military body in the
Belgiae
inscription: Besides we never meet with a legion stiled
August
singly, without some other adjunctive distinction, as the Legio II. VI. or
Antoniana Augusta;
nor could there be any such officer as a praetor, or
Propraetore Legionis,
that magistrate being entirely civil. The
R
in the last line denotes, as I think,
rite,
and not
reverenter,
a word not used by the ancients for this purpose upon any altars or antique monuments.
The
L. A.
in the last line of the other inscription, I believe, stands for
Lubenti Animo,
and not for
Libertus Augusti,
there being nothing in it leading us to such a person. There is nothing else in it of curiosity to be satisfied or difficulty to be cleared.
Extract of a letter from Sir John Clerk, touching the above, dated from Pennycuik,
26
June,
1735.
There were many barbarities in the language of the lower empire, and therefore it is hard to determine with any certainty about letters. I cannot approve of the doctor's
Gregalium,
though I believe he would be vastly sond of it, and pleased with the invention. Your
Civium Romanorum
is certainly right, if the letters be not
G. R.
for
Germanicorum,
for I have seen, if I remember right, some such inscription, though I cannot tell where. You will be surprised at my notion of
Germanicorum,
if I do not explain to you the reading of the altar so as to comprehend such a word. If the letters are
G. R.
in the sense I take them the reading must relate to the
Cohors Milliaria
It is hard to conceive how
Cohors Milliaria Germanicorum
should dedicate an altar
Genio Cob. II. Vardulorum;
besides if it was so, the reading upon the altar would have been
Cohors Mill. German.
and not
Germ. Cob. Mill.
—R. G.
, as dedicating an altar to the genius of the
Cohors Vardulorum
upon some signal service done.
F
must be
fecit,
and the last letter
R. restituit.
&c. &c.
This must have been the figure of the goddess Fortune seated, the wheel that is by her side, and the cornucopia she has in her left hand, and the globe at her foot on the other side, do all shew it to be Fortune, though one of her arms, as well as her head; be now broken off. There are several altars at Durham inscribed to Fortune; one found at Lanchester inscribed
Fortunae Augusti;
perhaps this has been the image of that Fortune; and by this image with the globe at her feet, may be expressed the emperor's universal dominion. The modern letters that are now cut on the base, may easily, at first view, deceive one into an opinion that the image is not Roman or antique; but this only shews when it was found, and by whom, namely in the year 1700, by Henry Ornsby, of Lanchester, whose wife's name was Elizabeth. To disguise this figure further, there stands on it a Mercury's head, as is plain from the petasus, so that I look upon it as certain that the head and body have belonged to different figures, though now the one is generally set upon the other.— This image of Fortune I take to be the same with a figure in Mr Gordon, which I can find no where explained. He has made the proportion far too large for the rest of the figures, and possibly had forgot the dimensions.
This figure, about twenty-four inches in height, remains in the dean and chapter's library at Durham, and the proper head is to be seen there: The sculpture is uncommonly good, and we prefer cutting the representation from a drawing made in 1776, to a mere imitation of Mr. Horsley's plate.
This represents a curious sculpture which is on a stone built up in the vestry wall of the church. It is much like that at Netherby, though there is some difference in the drapery, and here is no corona on the head, but only the hair plaited. I believe this to be a genius as well as the other, or at least the emperor represented as such.
the first name of this town has been
Glanchester,
composed as usual of the first syllable of the old Roman name, with the word
Chester
annexed to it: The
G,
for the sake of an easier pronunciation, might be dropt. If
Glanoventa
signifies a bank, or hill near a river,
ven
or
vent
in the British tongue signifying a river, the situation of the station at Lanchester is not unsuitable to this etymology; for it stands on high ground, with a river on one side, and a rivulet on the other, and not far from either. I know two of our greatest modern antiquaries, Roger Gale,
esq
and Dr Hunter, of Durham, suppose Lanchester to be the ancient
Longovicus,
the affinity of name having, as I presume, inclined them to this opinion; but I have a pretty strong reason to offer why this cannot be the
Longovicus
in the Notitia, garrisoned by the
Numerus Longovicariorum,
which is this: It is evident that some order is observed in the Notitia in setting down the several places, and
Longovicus
is set among the most southerly that were under the
Dux Britanniarum;
it is put down as more to the south than
Lavatrae
or
Verterae,
and next to
Derventio,
all which are mentioned in the Notitia as well as the Itinerary; and this suits much better with the situation of Lancaster in Lancashire, than Lanchester in the county of Durham; and as none of the military ways on which any of the itinera proceed seem to have passed by Lanchester, so this may be a good reason why
Longovicus
is not mentioned in the Itinerary, though we have it in the Notitia. Upon the whole, therefore, I see no place bids so fair to be the
Glanoventa
in the Itinerary as Lanchester, especially if we consider how the rest of the iter goes on when this foundation is laid.
The station and town have been situated on a lingula between the river Browney and the rivulet Smallup. This rivulet runs into the Browney a little below the station, and Browney loses itself and name in the river Were, at Sunderland bridge, two miles south of Durham. The station is two furlongs distant from Smallup, and not so much from Browney. It has a high situation, and yet the prospect is bounded quite round about with hills or rising grounds, that are not at a very great distance. The same sort of situation is observable at Elsdon, in Northumberland, and several other places. This situation has this advantage, that an enemy could not come over these rising grounds, but they must immediately appear to the garrison.
Mr Horsley has delineated this station of an exact square figure, whereas it is oblong, one hundred and seventy-four paces from north to south, and from east to west one hundred and sixty within the wall. It had survived many ages less mutilated than any structure of the kind, in the northern counties, but of late many of the stones have been removed to inclose the adjacent lands, and make the roads; and the proprietor is regularly destroying this piece of antiquity. In some parts the wall yet remains almost perfect; the outside is perpendicular, twelve feet in height, built of ashler work, in regular courses, each stone being about nine inches deep and twelve long: By some large stones which lie near the foot of the wall, it is evident there was a parapet, with a walk near three feet wide at the top. At the west entrance a stone, as represented in the cut, was lately dug up, from which
the drawing was made in 1783, and shews that such fortifications had more ornament than is commonly apprehended: The inside of the vallum is built of ashler work, but from the ground work upwards, at the distance of about twenty inches, it diminishes gradually in thickness, in steps running parallel through the whole structure, by which those within might ascend the wall, and instantly line the parapet with troops on the approach of an enemy. The wall where broken through is eight feet thick at the present surface, diminishing to somewhat more than four at the top; the interior part between the facings is formed of thin stones, placed inclining, feather-wise, tier above tier, run full of mortar mixed with rough gravel. What is remarkable, there appear no
throughs,
as the masons call those stones which bind the buildings by going through from face to face, or into the heart of the wall. There was an entrance in the center of each side of the square, and to the west a wide ditch; the ground has been cultivated many years on the other sides, as well as within the vallum. We did not discern any inscription on the walls save L. xxxv. Mr Greenwell, of the Ford, has preserved in his garden wall several rude effigies lately found here; the most remarkable are represented in the cuts.
The cup used at divine offices in the church has a cover, which was found in this station; the date on it (1571) is presumed to be the time of finding. It is a Roman patera, and is also represented in the cut.
The last time we visited this station, in August 1783, we discovered at a gate on the west side of the road, the pillar represented, which it is presumed stood on the
Watling-street: It is now fixed as a gate post, and is inscribed, as we apprehend, to
Marcus Antonius Gordianus;
the
F
in the last line has been compound, to make the word
Felici.
An extensive division of common lands within this parish took place by virtue of an act of parliament, in the twelfth year of his present majesty, on which, it was computed, twenty thousand acres were to be inclosed. The commissioners were impowered to dispose of lands, to raise money for making all the roads, and paying expences; for which purpose they sold one thousand five hundred and fifty-one acres for 8174l. or thereabouts, and three hundred acres were set out and vested in the justices of the peace of the county, for raising money to compensate the owners of allotments, such damages as they should sustain by the lord bishop of Durham, or his lessees, winning mines therein: But being afterwards considered, that it would be more expedient to sell an allotment of three hundred acres, subject to a rent charge of 30l. a year, an act of parliament was obtained to carry such sale into effect, and Thomas White, of Retford, in the county of Nottingham,
esq
became the purchaser. He set a most laudable example on this division, and planted two hundred and eleven acres with forest trees, and sixteen acres with fruit trees, which, under the shelter of rising plantations, promise to answer the adventurer's expectations. Of the three hundred acres purchased, Mr White has planted one hundred and fifty acres more with forest trees. This vast tract of country, which was barren, desart, and dreary, where the perplexed traveller wandered in the ambiguous tracks with anxiety, is now inclosed, much of it cultivated, and intersected with direct roads, made in the turnpike manner, fit for the reception of any carriage; innumerable buildings are scattered over the prospect; merchandise has found an expeditious passage to villages heretofore almost inaccessible, but in the very midst of summer; and the inhabitants, greatly multiplied, are chearful and prosperous. In one farmhold, totally separated from all ancient inclosures, in the summer of 1783, we observed thirty-four stacks of corn in one yard, the produce of new cultivations. Many parts lie very high, the prospect consequently extensive: At a point where the roads leading to Durham, Hexham, Chester, and Lanchester meet, the view is noble, and commands a vast extent of country, even to the mouths of the rivers Tyne, Were, and Tees, besides a distant prospect to the west and north.
The chapelry of ESH is mentioned before as appertaining to the first prebend of Lanchester. The church was a very mean structure, being in length from east to west about nineteen yards, and five yards and a half wide: In the year 1769 bishop Crewe's trustees gave one hundred pounds towards rebuilding it
Esh chapel.—Dedicated to St Michael.—Col. Lanch. prop.— Bishop of Durham pat.—Not in charge.— 6l. 13s. 4d. certified value, out of which is paid 1l. 8s. 4d. clear 5l. 5s. a pension paid by the crown.
Curates.
Anth. Ruther, oc. 14 Dec. 1562.— Rich. Milner, cl. oc. 3 Feb. 1577.— Pet. Norman.— Matthias Wrightson, cl. lic. 30 Sep. 1623, p. m. Norman.—Rob. Swan, cl. lic. 12 Oct. 1627, p. res. Wrightson.—Timothy Barnes, literatus 14 Feb. 1634.— Joh. Martin, A. B. 1673.—Will. Dunn, 1696.—Joh. Bryding, cl. a Scot.—Miles Patric, cl. lic. 17 Sep. 1731, p. m. Bryding.— Will. Adey, cl. lic. 14 Sep. 1744, p. m. Patric.—Abrah. Gregory, A. M. lic. 13 Feb. 1768, p. res. Adey.—John Wheeler, A. B. 7 Aug. 1773, p. m. Gregory.—Thomas Capstack, 1783, p. m. Wheeler.
. In a porch called St Helen's porch, lies a fine recumbent effigy in stone, supposed to be one of the ancient and eminent family of De Esh, who held the local name for several generations, and were in high offices in this palatinate, as will appear by reference to the tables of temporal officers. Dominus Rogerus de Esh died possessed of lands here, together with other considerable estates in this county, in the tenth year of bishop Hatfield
Inq. p. m. cor. R. de. Bowes, vic. Dun.—Inq. p. m 32 Hatfield, cor. I de Kyndeley, esc. in co. Dun.— Inq. p. m. 36 Hatfield co. Will. de Bowes, esc.— Inq. p. m. R. de Bland, 6 Skirlaw, co. Tho. de Boynton,
sc.—Inq. p. m. 17 Skirlaw, &c.—
Randal's MSS.
Book of rates 2l. 4s. 8d.—Value of lands 308l. 13s. 4d.—
Grey's MSS.
; and in the thirty-second of bishop Hatfield, William de Esh died seised of the manor of Esh, held
in capite,
by homage, fealty, and suit of court, together with a large tract of waste and lands in Esh-field; he was also possessed of other considerable estates, as the manor of East Herrington, &c. In the thirty-sixth of the same bishop, Thomas the son and heir of William died seised of the same manors, and the male line became extinct, he leaving a daughter and heiress, Johan, who married Robert de Bland, who in her right possessed the manor of Esh, with Ulshaw and Heleigh, members thereof. The family of Esh possessed a city house in the Bailey, Durham, built against the castle wall. We do not find that Bland had any issue, but Johan, his widow, married to her second husband Thomas Colvill,
esq
who, in the seventeenth year of bishop Skirlaw, died seised in her right of this manor. Colvill's widow married a Forster, and by an inquisition taken on the death of Richard Forster her son and heir, in the second year of bishop Nevil, it is stated, that Johan, by a deed of settlement, dated at Staindrop, the last day of June, in the year 1428, conveyed to trustees the manor and vills of Skyrnyngham, Bermton, Esh, Ulshawe, Estheryngton, 1 mess. c. acres of land in Roule, 6 mess. cclx. acres of land, and seventeen shillings rent in Middle Herryngton and West Herryngton, 2 mess. cc. acres in Cornshowe, 2 mess. and c. acres of land, &c. called the Hugh, in Esh, a close there called the Neuparke, 1 mess. and 60 acres called Undersyd, in Esh, and 1 mess. called Ratonrawe. No licence was obtained. That the manors and vills of Esh and Ulshawe, the Hugh and Undersyde, were held of the bishop by military service of the value of twelve marks. That Matilda, the wife of John Walkerfield, sister and heir of the before-named Richard Forster, had released her right in the premisses to the trustee, whereby he was in power to make his deed of indenture, dated the 1st of November, the eighteenth of Henry VI. whereby he granted to Walter Boynton, arm. 3 mess. cxl. acres of land and meadow, in Esh, Middle Herryngton, and West Herryngton for life, and after his death to William, the son of William Hodilston, and the heirs of his body, remainder to John Walkerfield, the son of the before-named Matilda, the sister of Richard Forster, and the heirs of his body, remainder to Alice, John's sister, remainder to the afore-named Matilda, and the heirs of her body, remainder to the right heirs of Roger de Esh. And by another indenture, dated the 4th day of the same month of November, he granted to the same John Walkerfield, son of Matilda, son and heir of Richard Forster, who was the son and heir of John, the son of Thomas, lord of Esh, the manors and vills of Esh and Ulshawe, a mess. and c. acres in Roule the Hugh New Park and Undersyde in Esh, 2 mess. and cc. acres in Corneshowe, 1 mess. and c. acres in Heugh, and to the heirs of his body, remainder to Alice his sister, and the heirs of her body, remainder to Matilda, Richard's sister, and the heirs of her body, remainder to William Hodilston, Matilda's brother, and the heirs of his body, remainder to the right heirs of Roger de Esh. The manor of Esh and lands there were held of the bishop by military service, and the lands in Corneshowe were held of Johan countess of Westmereland.— How the remainders took place it is difficult to ascertain. The manor of Esh is now the property of Sir Edward Smyth, baronet
Edward Smyth, of Esh,
esq
was created a baronet the 28th of February, 1660.
.
CORNSEY and HEDLEY appertain to the parish of Brancepeth, and are so stated in the book of rates, though in this deanry
For Cornsey and Hedley, vide Brancepeth.
.
We find nothing more of Hamsteels, Broomsheels, and Burnhope, than what is noted in bishop Hatfield's Survey
Hamstels cum Burnhope.
T
ta S
ac
ary.
Po
rt
Sewright, tenet j mess. and xxxvj acr. terrae & redd. per ann. xij s. Et xv. acr. &c. de vasto antiq. v s. ij d.—Joh. Grome, Ranulphus Burnhope, Gilbertus Raph, Richardus Hemison tenet j mes. & ij acr. terrae vocat. le Nonnery, & redd. per ann. ij d. xiij alij tenentes, &c.
Liberi tenentes.
Robertus de Carlell j mes. & lx acr. apud Blakburn xjx s. xd. Haered. Nicholai Knout, &c. Thomas Umframvill tenet xx acr. terrae juxta Hollesheved quas acquisivit de Willo Acton red. vjs. viij d.
Et est ibid j toftum & lij acr. terrae vocat Hugonfeld quond'm in tenura Johan's Sewright quae solebant reddere per annum xiij s. modo vast. & extra tenur.—
Hatfield's Survey.
An act of parliament passed in the 12th of king George III. for dividing and inclosing Hamsteels moor or common.
Bromeschels.—Terrae scaccarij.
Hugo del Park tenet de jure uxoris suae j mes. & xliij acr. terrae quond'm Rad'i Carter, &c. red. per ann. xvjs. jxd.
Adam del Dale j mes. & xij acr. iij s.—& dimid. red. terrae de novo vast. appruat. jd.—Rob. Alde j mes. & xxx acr. red. x s. iij d.—& j. mes. & iiij acr. Leperfeld viiij d.—Ricardus del. Shell j mes. xx acr. vij s. ij d.— Henricus Barnardj Claus. jx acr. iij s.—Hugo Parker j mes. xjx acr. vj s. x d.—& vj acr. terrae de vast. de novo appruat. ij s.—Adam Tailler, j mes. xlij acr. Stubleys xxvj s.
Magister hospitalis de Kypier tenet j mes. & xv. acr. & dimid. terrae & red. xiij s. iiij d.—
Hatfield's Survey.
.
The next place mentioned as parcel of this parish is
MEDOMSLEY
Medomsley.
Medomsley reddit xxij s.—Boldon Buke.
Medomsley cum Hamsterley.
Johannes de Felton Miles tenet villam de Medomsley, per servic. forin. & redd. xxij s. tenet terram Nigelli de Bothe & redd. per annum ij s.—tenet clx acr. terrae ibid quond'm Will'i Medomsley vocat Hamsterley redd. iiijli.
Haeredes Hugonis de Redheugh tenet vj acr. terrae ibid libere & redd. per ann. iiijd.—
Hatfield's Survey.
In the deanry of Chester. Not in charge. Pays no first fruits or proc.
,
a pleasant village, on an elevated and healthful situation, and a dry soil, skirted with good meadow grounds; the more distant country consisting of new cultivated lands, which promise a due reward to the industry of the inhabitants, who are skilful in agriculture, whilst the enlivened prospect is yearly improving upon the traveller. You command from hence a fine view into the rich vale of Derwent-water, possessing all the beauties of cultivation, mingled with a variety of woodlands, together with a more distant prospect of the lands north of Tyne.
The church of Medomsley is superior to many in this part of the county; it stands lofty, and is viewed at a considerable distance; the building is of stone, covered with lead, but has no tower
Certified value 10l. 3s. 4d.—Augmented by lot.— Col. Lanchester prop.—
Bishop of Durham patron.
Curates.
Rob. Wright, 1501.—John Crosby, 1561.—Wm Struderish, 3 May, 1564.—Sir Geo. Thompson, 14 Aug. 1566.—John Graunger, 22 July, 1578.—Miles Watmonth, 7 Feb.—82.—George Wrightson.—And. Leach, A. M. lic. 19 Dec. 1635.—Chr. Collison, cl.—Jonath. Jefferson, cl. oc. 26 July, 1736, p. m. Collison.—William Ellison, A. M. 1784, p. m. Jefferson.—
Randal's MSS.
An award, order, and conclusion, made and set down the 20th of August, 1614, by Sir John Claxton, of Nettlesworth, in the county of Durham, knight, and William Porter, of Sheelraw, in the same county, gentlemen, arbitrators indifferently chosen by Rob. Isildyard, of the city of Durham, gentleman, and Thomas Marley of Kyhoe, in the said county of Durham, gentleman, for the ending and arbitrating of all suits, differences, and demands, for and concerning the rights, members, and tithes of corn due and belonging of right to the dean and deanry of Lanchester, and the prebend of Medomsley now depending, &c.
Maydenstall Hall,
al's manor house juxta Langchester.
Prior de Hexham tenet j mes. vocat Maydenstanhall & lxx acr. terrae quond'm Simonis Dash, per servic. sorin & redd. per ann. ad iiij term. xiij s. iiijd.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Lanchester. Dean and chapter's rents. Iveston 13s. 4d.—Rowley Gillets 3s. 4d.—Londhouse 6s.— Stonyheap 1s.—Broom 10s. 4d.
Bishop's rents 29l. 3s. 9d.—Colliery, Sir Edw. Smith 2l. 1s.
Parish register of Medomsley, 1683, Dec. 21. Magna Campana Lanchestriae fracta & multa alia valde ruinosa.
Parochiana de Lanchester Solverunt
51
17
8
Inhabitantes infra cap'niam de Medomsley Solverunt
14
14
0
Inhabitantes de Esh
pro conjectu campanae
4
11
8
: The nave is about sixty-five feet in length, and twenty-two feet in width; lighted to the south by three windows, two of double lights, the middle one single: The chancel opens by a fine pointed arch rising from corbles or brackets; it is thirty-five feet in length, and twenty in breadth, lighted to the east by three long windows; the piers ornamented with small round columns or pilasters, belted in the midst, having foliated capitals: To the south there are three windows, two under pointed arches, and one of two lights under a circular arch: By the sculptures and heads scattered in the walls, it seems this structure has anciently been more ornamented. This church is dedicated to St Mary Magdalen; it still depends upon Lanchester, though served by a distinct curate.
The first person of consequence we find mentioned as owner of lands at Medomsley, is William de Felton, chiv. who held the vill with Hamsterley, of the bishop of Durham
in capite,
the vill of Medomsley by homage and fealty, and twenty-four shillings rent, payable at the bishop's exchequer, valued at twenty shillings, and Hamsterley at four pounds rent, no value set forth
Inq. p. m. 15, bishop Hatfield, co. Will. de Claxton, esc. in Dun. in cathedram.
Book of rates 6l. 6s 2d.—Value of lands 108d. 1s.—
Grey's MSS.
. In the twenty-second year of bishop Hatfield, by an inquisition taken on the death of William de Felton, son of the former William, it appears he held the manor of Medomsley in fee tail, except the lands called Tailbois's lands and Haddames's lands, containing two messuages and thirty acres, paying the same rent: He not having issue, the estates descended to his brother John: This John appears in bishop Hatfield's Survey, and there Hamsterley is called one hundred and sixty acres: Several subsequent inquisitions shew that John was half brother to William by a second venter, and succeeded to the estates by virtue of an intail, created by the general ancestor, under a fine levied of the premisses
Inq. p. m. 2
Hatfield co. W. de Mem
vylle vic. Dun.—Inq. p. m. 27 same bishop, Robert de Felton.— Inq. p. m Alicia Dautry, 8 Skirlaw, co. R. de Layton es
.
. John, the son of John de Felton, dying without issue, the manor descended to his sister Elizabeth
Inq. p. m. John de Felton, 15 Skirlaw, co. R. de Conyer chiv. esc.
; she married Edmund Hastings,
esq
and by him had John her son and heir; Henry Boynton was her second husband
Inq. p. m. Eliz. q. s. ux. Hen. Boynton, 16 bishop Langley.
. John Hastings died in the fourth of bishop Nevill, leaving a son, Edmund, of tender years; and of that family's possession we find no further notice in the records. In the time of bishop Skirlaw John lord Nevill held lands at Medomsley, of John de Fenton, of two shillings rent, and in the twelfth year of that bishop, William de Wessington,
esq
died seised of lands in Medomsley, held of the heirs of John de Felton: The families of Bowes and Redheugh had also acquired some possessions here; one of the heiresses of Redheugh married Henry Boteler, and that family thenceforth held lands at Medomsley
Inq. p. m. Maria ux. Hen. Botuler, 23 bishop Langley.
. We have not found when the family of Hastings aliened the manor, but it appears the Nevills acquired it, and it was under forfeiture on the attainder of the earl of Westmoreland, and comprised in the grant to the citizens of London upon the great trust for sale
Dr C. Hunter was born in 1675, at Medomsley, educated at the free school of Houghton-le-Spring founded by the famous Bernard Gilpin and John Heath,
esq
admitted of St John's College, Cambridge, about 1692. He first practised physic at Stockton, afterwards at Durham; from whence he retired in 1757, to an estate of his wife's at Shotley, in Northumberland, where he died, and was buried July the 12th in that year, and in the 83d year of his age. The greatest part of his large and valuable library was purchased by Mr Richardson, bookseller, of Durham above mentioned, for 350l. and his MSS. and coins by the dean and chapter of Durham for 40l. He is acknowledged by Mr Horsley and Mr Gordon to be very exact and masterly in the knowledge of antiquities; and Dr Wilkins expresses his obligations to him in his edition of the Councels.— His elder brother John, married Margaret, sister of the celebrated Mr Tho. Baker.—
Brit. Top. 1. 330, 331.
.
HOUSETREE is the next place mentioned in this extensive parish. In bishop Hatfield's time the manor was the estate of the Birtleys
Inq. p. m. John de Birtley, 25 bishop Hatfield, co. Will. Menevylle, vic. Dun.—Inq. p. m. Will. Chaunceller, 4 bishop Nevill.
15 July, 1459. Pardonac'o p' terris adquisit sine lic. Will. Chaunceller, &c. concessa.
Thomas par la grace de dieu evesq. de Duresme a n're conestable de Duresme sal. come me tres. chier, &c. William Chauncellers ent purchasset a leng & a ses heirs de Tho. Birtley, le manorir de Houstre ave les apportenances, &c. sauns n're licence, &c.—
Randal's MSS.
, of fifteen shillings rent, and value ten shillings. This family had large possessions in the county. Isabell, the wife of John, died in the third year of bishop Skirlaw, and on the inquisition then taken the manor and lands thereto appertaining are set forth at sixty shillings and ten-pence rent, value twenty-six shillings and eight-pence. About the year 1429, Thomas Birtley sold the manor to William Chaunceller, who settled the same on Thomas his son, by Alice Wandesforth, and the heirs of his body, remainder to Richard another son, and the heirs of his body, remainder to Margaret the wife of William Claxton, Richard's sister, and the heirs of her body, remainder to the right heirs of William Claxton in fee simple. By virtue of the before stated limitations this manor became the estate of the Osberns of Sheles, by Alice the wife of John Osbern, who was the daughter of Alice Myddleton, and the grand daughter of Beatrix, Thomas Chaunceller's sister. The manor is described in the above inquisition to consist of a new built hall
cum Stramine tect.
roofed with straw, an ancient ruined house, a stone built chamber, and one hundred acres of land.
KYO-LEIGH was the estate of the Birtleys, and by them held of the master of St Edmund's hospital, in Gateshead, by the service of a rose on St John the Baptist's day
Kyowe.
Henricus Kaunt tenet j bercar. ibid. & iiij acr. & red. per ann. ad. iiij terminos xx d.
Ricardus Henrison tenet viij acr terrae vocat Lymess
ld & soleb't reddere per ann. vj s. viij d. quae suer. in tenur. Ricardi Purceblades qui sinivit pro dicta terta & adhuc vivit & red. iij s. iiij d.
Will. sil. Ricardi j mes. & xxxij acr. xj s. iij d —vj acr. in Kyoclonyng ij s.—Johan. Collison j mes & xxx acr. terrae x s.—Henricus Kaunt j mes. & xxxiij acr. Kyowpath xj s. j d.—
Hatfield's Survey.
. The family of Chauncellers held considerable lands in this manor.
BURSBLADES appears in the Boldon Book; Gilbert Chamberlain then held the vill by virtue of an exchange, and a messuage with fourscore acres of land there, passed by the same limitations as those created of House tree. The manor was in the hands of the bishop. In the fifth year of bishop Hatfield we find this vill was the estate of Thomas de Gildeford, held of the bishop by homage, fealty, and suit of court, and was valued at twenty shillings
Bursebred.
Gilbertus Camerarius habet servitium Radulphi Caunti de Bursebred, in Escambium Insula de Bradbrae, quam d no episcopo debet warantizare.
In Witton & Fulsord sunt xxiiij bovat. & dimid. quas villani tenent unaquaq. de viij acris, & unaquaq. reddit ij s. & j gallin. & x ova. & arant & herciant j die, & salcant prata, & levant faenum & quadirgant & in omnibus operationibus istis habeat corroduim.
Theobaldus tenet j bovat. & reddit iij s. sine operatione.
Hugo tenet ij bovat. sine servitio, quamdiu episcopo placuerit.
Dominium est in manu episcopi.
Molendinum reddit ij marc.—
Boldon Buke.
Buresb ades.
Willielmus Crome tenet villam de Buresblades quond'm Gilberti Camerarij per servic. sorin. red. x s.
Hatfield's Survey.
Inq p. m. Tho. de Gildeford, 5 bishop Hatfield, co. W. de Mordon, vic. Dun. in cath.
; he also held a wood there, called Le-smethe-strecher, at one mark rent, and a pasture called Dependen, at ten-pence rent; he held the vill of Merley of Gilbert de Merley, by fealty and suit of court. In failure of issue these estates descended to Johan the daughter of Thomas de Gildeford's sister, who married Robert Grame
Inq. p. m. Rob. Grame, 5 bishop Fordham, co. R. de Layton, esc.
; and by an inquisition taken in the eighth year of bishop Skirlaw
Ap. Langchestre, co. W. de Elmedon, esc.
, it appears that Johan aliened the premisses without licence to her son William Grame, whose name appears in bishop Hatfield's Survey; he died in the fifteenth year of bishop Skirlaw: And we find this family remained possessors for several years. There was a family who took the local name of Bursblades, and held considerable possessions there of the bishop, paying ten shillings rent, and also held of the lord of Bursblades lands, paying the third part of a pound of Cumin
Inq. p. m. John son of John, son of Philip de Buresblades, 13 bishop Hatfield, c. W. de Claxton, esc.
. The family of Birtley also had lands here
Inq. p. m. John de Birtley, 25 bishop Hatfield, c. W. de Menevyll, vic.
, and in bishop Langley's time, we find John de Gildeford held lands of the Grames.
BILLINGSIDE, which is next named, is little mentioned in the ancient records, other than what appears in bishop Hatfield's Survey: We find a family called Gourlay held lands here, not noticed in that record
Bi
lyngside.
Ricardus L
nde tenet j mes. & xxxvj acr. & dim. terrae xij s. vj d.—Thomas Gowhill j mes. & xxiiij acr. viij s. ij d. &c. &c.—
Hatfield's Survey.
.
BRADLEY, near Medomsley, was a manor of the De Feltons; the family of Redhoughs held of them in the third year of bishop Skirlaw by suit of court at Medomsley, and it was then valued at twenty shillings. It was afterwards the estate of Roger Thornton, whose daughter and heiress, Elizabeth, married Sir George Lumley, and transferred to him her family's large possessions
Inq. p. m. Roger Thornton exemplified 18 Apr. 14 bishop Booth.—
Cursitors Rolls. Rudd's MSS.
. It gave name to a resident family, and William de Bradley held lands there of the lord of the manor in bishop Bury's time, by the payment of a rose and a pound of pepper for all services
Inq. p. m. Hugh de Redhough, 3 bishop Skirlaw, co. M. de Lumley, esc.—Inq. p. m. Will. de Bradley, 7 bishop Bury, in pleno com. Dun. cor. I. de Menvill vic.
.
CRUKTON, as it is called in the Boldon Book
Crukton.
Crukton reddit iiij marc.—
Boldon Buke.
, or Crokehugh in the records of bishop Langley, now called Crook-hall, was the estate of the Hiltons, and by William de Hilton aliened to Peter Tilliol
Inq. touching alienation in the sixth year of bishop Langley.
; it is uncertain how long it continued in that family. For more than a century past it has been the estate of the Bakers, of Sir George Baker, knight, recorder of Newcastle, and his son George Baker,
esq
Vide his will under the head the city of Durham, page 58. The learned Mr Thomas Baker, of St John's College, was younger brother to George Baker,
esq
Inscribed on the stone under which Dean Rudd was interred, in Lanchester church.
Here lyeth the body
of George Baker, of
Crooke,
esq
eldest son
of Sr George Baker, knt
who departed this life
October the 14th, Anno
D'ni 1677
Vita Christus, mors lucrum.
Phil j. 21.
Parish Reg. George Baker, of Crook,
esq
who died at Bristol the 1st of June, and was buried June the 12th, 1723.
; whose charitable donations, with the wise disposition thereof, by his brothers and trustees, the city of Durham will ever gratefully remember.
GREENCROFT next named is the seat of George Clavering,
esq
a spacious old mansion, placed on an elevated situation, with a southern aspect, commanding a view of Lanchester, with a prospect of the winding vale. The house is sheltered with fine plantations, and the adjacent grounds are beautiful. Greencroft is mentioned in the Bolden Book with its services, the villains there having the twelfth part of the mill-pool of Lanchester to repair, and to carry the bishop's wine with four oxen: In bishop Hatfield's Survey they are said to find two greyhounds for the bishop's great chace. In that prelate's time Robert de Kellawe de Lumley, and John Rugheved held the vill of Greencroft, under the title of
Dringes
They were tenants,
in capite,
says an ancient MS. Doomsday tit. Lestr. R
g. Pictaviens Neu
on. They were, as Spelman defines it,
E genere vassalorum non ignobilium cum singuli qui in Doomsday nominantur, singula possiderunt maneria.
Such as at the conquest being put out of their estates; for that they being before owners thereof were against him neither by their persons nor councels.—
Cok. on Lit. fo.
5, says, Drenches are free tenants of a manor.
Vide Mon. Angl.
2
par. sol.
598,
a. Vide Trin.
21,
Ed.
3,
Ebor. & Northumb. Rot.
191. Vide Spelman,
Drengagium.
. The Roughheads held a moiety of Greencroft in the time of bishop Bury, by fealty, two shillings rent, and suit at all the bishop's courts at Durham, and performing with his other parcener the service of leading the third part of a dole of wine yearly, repairing a twelfth part of the mill and mill-pool of Lanchester, and grinding at that mill under a thirteenth portion for the mulcture, and paying to the bishop's head forester for an assart two shillings and ten-pence, and eight hens
Inq. p. m. Nich. Roughhead, 6 bishop Bury, cor. vic. in pleno com. Dun.
. They held their moiety for many generations; but how long the Kellawes were possessed we have no evidence before us, their moiety becoming the estate of the Evers, of which Ralph Ever,
esq
died seised in the seventeenth year of bishop Langley. Thomas Claxton was possessed of a moiety in the fifth year of bishop Booth
Inq. p. m. T. Claxton, cor. I. Athirton, esc.
, and the same descended to Ralph his son, who died in the fifteenth year of bishop Booth, leaving John his son and heir. This family's large possessions came to the crown by attainder of Robert Claxton. In 1468, one Thomas Forster was possessed of the hall of Greencroft, as heir of W. Forster, by Alice his wife
Inq. p. m. Will. Forster, an. xij. Booth, &c.
, and conveyed to one Thomas Hall, Overhouse and a moiety of the park of Greencroft
Cursitors Rolls, Nevill, Rudd's MSS.
Canon Barton levied a fine to John Hall, of Greencroft. 2 & 3 Phil. & Mary.
. Greencroft has been the place of residence of a branch of the family of Claverings, above a century past
Grencroft.
Grencroft reddit xvj s. & quadrigat vinum cum iiij Bobus. Et villani ejus villae faciuint duodecimam partem Stagni Molendini de Langcestria & dominium inde quiet. est & quadrigant vinum cum iiij Bobus.
Boldon Buke.
Grencroft.
Dring. Rob. de Kellowe de Lomeley, & Johan's Rugheved tenent villam de Grencroft, & quad. vinum cum iiij Bohus, & villani ejusd villae faciuint xij partem Stagni Molendini de Langchest. & er'nt in magna chacea episcopi cum ij Leporarijs. Sed dominium est quiet. inde & quadrig. vinum cum iiij Bobus, & praedicti Robertus & Johannes redd. per ann. xvj s.
Terrae scacrarij
Will's Stell tenet j mes. & xvj acr. iiij s. x d.—Alex. de Moresyd j mes. xxxij acr. x s. viij d. —Johannes Smyth j mes. & xxxiij acr. iij Rod. de parte Smyth felling xj s. iij d.—V. alias parcell terrae solv. certos redd. annuatim.
Johannes Urpath & iij alij tenentes tenent xxix acr. terr & sub eisd. legibus.
Will's de Fulthorp Miles ten. quond'm ten. ibid vocat le Burnhous, & redd. iij s. x d.
Te
rae vast.
Et sunt ibid. iiij acr. terrae vocat Grenhowseld soleb. reddere per ann. ij s. modo vast.
Hatfield's Survey.
Lanchester church. On a small mural monument of white marble, near the north door.
Memoriae sacrum JACOBUS CLAVERING, de Greencroft, in Comitatu Duresmensi, armiger (filius Jacobo Clavering, de Axwell, in Comitatu predicto Baronetti) & Jana conjux ejus. Charissima cum Liberis Eorum hic Requiescuri.
On a flat marble stone.
Benjamin, son of James Clavering, of Green Croft,
esq
departed this life April 26, 1683. Isa. Clavering, 5 dauther of James Clavering,
esq
of Greencroft, died 8br. 30, 1706. Henry Clavering, youngest son of Sir James Clavering of Axwell, died August ye 11th 1711. Catherine, wife of James Clavering,
esq
dyed Nov. 29th 1723: She was daughter of Thomas Yorke,
esq
of Richmond, in Yorkshire.
Parish Reg.
Mrs Jane Clavering, wife of James Clavering,
esq
buried 15 Mar. 1718.
James Clavering, sen.
esq
of Newcastle, bur. 26 Jan. 1721.
Catharine, wife of James Clavering,
esq
of Greencroft, bur. 4 Dec. 1723.
Sir James Clavering, bar of Whitehouse, bur. 16 May, 1748.
Lady Clavering was bur. 26 Feb. 1746.
.
The first notice we find taken of WHITLEY manor in the records, is in the time of bishop Bury, when it gave name to the resident family, and John died seised thereof in the sixth year of that prelate, he having held the same by fealty, and thirty-four shillings and eight-pence rent. He also held lands in Holmside, of John de Bertley by fealty, and one penny rent. In the fifth of bishop Hatfield we find one John de Parco possessed of a third part of the manor
lings yearly to Marmaduke de Lomley. By the survey of the la
me
late, it appears that Thomas Umfravill then possessed the manor, and died
thereof in the sixth year of bishop Fordham, together with Holmside, and they continued in that family till the male line failed as after mentioned. Whitley soon afterwards became the estate of the Nevils, and on the death of Ralph earl of Westmoreland, descended to Ralph his grandson
Inq. p. m. Ra. earl of West. 20 bishop Langley.
; and in 1430 we find a pardon for the alienation of this manor, to Tunstall and others, but the trust doth not appear
Madox's Formul.
. It afterwards became the property of the Tempests.
HOLMESET, now known by the name of Holmside Hall, the estate of the
Whittinghams,
is mentioned next. It is named in the Boldon Book as rendering one mark to the bishop, and performing the service of carrying his wine with four oxen, and finding one man for forty days in the bishop's forest, at the fawning season, and forty days at the rutting season. In bishop Fordham's time this was the possession of Thomas Umfraville, who held the vill of Holmeset by homage and fealty, with the services above, and was then valued at forty shillings
Inq. p. m. Tho. de Umfraville, 6 bishop Fordham, co. W. del Bowes, vic. & esc.
Holmeset.
Holmeset reddit j marc. & invenit unum hominem in foresta xi diebus in Forneson, & xl diebus in Ruyth, & quadrigat vinum cum iiij Bobus.—
Boldon Buke.
Vide Whickham.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Lanchester church—in the chancel.
Here lyeth dame Elizabeth Whittingham, wife of Sir Timothy Whittingham, of Holmeside, who died the 13th of March, A. D. 1614.
Here lyeth John Whittingham, the 3d son of Sir Timothy Whittingham, who died the 1st day of June, 1614.—Here lye the bodys of Stephen and Elizabeth Whittingham, 2d son and eldest daughter of Timothy Whittingham, of Holmeside,
esq
which son was buried the 10th day of July, and Elizabeth my daughter, the 22d day of October, both in the year 1679.
Parish reg. Timothy bur. 9 Oct. 1682.—Timothy Whittingham,
esq
bur. 10 Oct. 1751.—George Whittingham,
esq
bur. 27 June, 1758.
The last Timothy and George were the sons of Zachary, who was the son of Timothy Whittingham.
. In the seventeenth year of bishop Langley, the male line failed in the death of Gilbert de
Wheteley.
Thomas Umfravill tenet maner. de Wheteley per servic. sorin. & redd. per ann. xxxvj s. Predictus Thomas tenet. maner. de Holmeset contin. c acr. terrae & invenit unum hominem in forest. xl diebus in Fownyson, & xl diebus in Ruyth & quad. vinum cum iiij Bobus redd. xiiij s. iiij d.—Will's de Kyowe, Johannes Hallyng, Isabella de Britley, Johan's de Wharnows, &c. &c.
Inq. p. m. John son of Rich. de Parco, 5 bishop Hatfield, W. de Mordon, vic.
Umfraville, and his possessions descended to five coheiresses, his sisters, who had intermarried with Elmedon, Rither, Lambton, Constable, and Hagerston. Holmeside became the estate of the Tempests, and Robert Tempest died seised thereof in the seventh of bishop Fox, together with the manor of Whitley and Green Shipley
Cursitors Rolls.—
Rudd's MSS.
; and it was the place of residence of Thomas Tempest in 1530, who obtained licence to celebrate a marriage between him and Anna Lynthall, of Brancepeth, dated the 21st of November
There was an ancient chapel here.—Fox. p. 33, Log. Leybourn, S. T. P. vic. spiritualib's gen. co'cess. dispencac'om Joh'i Hall de Middleham epi & Isabelle Tempest fil. Rob'ti Tempest de p'och de Lanchestr. (to marry) in capella infra man'ium de Homesid. situat. dat. 7o Augusti, 1500.—
Randal's MSS.
.
PEDIGREE OF WHITTINGHAM OF HOLMESIDE. William Whittingham, dean of Durham, Ao 1563, was the son of William Whittingham, gent. by a daughter of Houghton, of Houghton-tower, grandson of William Whittingham, of Over, and great grandson of Seth Whittingham, of Swallow, in the county of Chester; he mar. Catharine, sister of John Calvin, of Geneva, and died 10 Jun. 1577.— See p. 143.
Sir Timothy
Catharine
He was seised of the manor of Holmside, and lands there of 250l. a year value, and granted annuities to his four younger sons, 15 Dec. 1666.
Timothy,
esq
Sarah —
Timothy ob. s. p.
Stephen ob. 10 Jul. 1679, s. p.
John
She survived John, and mar. Rich. Brodrop, who possessed the estate in 1699, but was recovered by Zachary, under a settlement.
Elizabeth —
William ob. s. p.
Zachary ob. July, 1711.
—
Sarah
Timothy ob. Oct. 1752.
Elizabeth, d. of Mr Whitfield, of Sherburn, and half sister of George Wood, late of Merrington.
Sarah m. Isaac Cookson, of South Shields,
esq
ob. 1758.
Elizabeth, 25 Oct. —85, m. Ju. Han
ll, of Sun
, si
ter.
Sarah unmarried
Elizabeth, the eldest daughter, m. first Mark Hudson, by whom no issue,— second Joh. Hunter, of Medomsley,
esq
by whom she had
John Hunter, Nov. 15, —85, m. Eliz. Bunting, d. & coheir of Tomlinson Bunting,
esq
George, M. A. fellow of Christ Col. Cambridge.
Margaret unmarried.
Elizabeth
George, to whom Timothy left the estate on condition of paying 500l. a piece to his daughters. Ob. s. p. 1758, the male line extinguished.
Elizabeth ob. 1679.
William ob. 3 May, 1687.
John ob. June, 1614.
Catharine
Elizabeth m. Mich. Mitford, of Sighil, in Northumberland, ob. Dec. 1613.
Daniel
Judith
Sarah m. Jerrard Birkhead, and had 7 d.
The ancient possessors of the manor of COLE-PIKE-HILL, vulgarly called Colpighill, were the family of Parkes: In the latter end of the fifteenth century, in the time of bishop Booth, issue male failing, it came into the family of Walkers, by marriage of Isabell the daughter of Edward Parke
Colpighill.
Willielmus tenet j mes. & j acr. xij d.—Tho. Urk j mes. & xvj acr. v s. iiij d. ij acr. de novo vast. appruat. viij d.—Johannes Scot, &c. xxx acr. x s & j ten. & v acr. xxj d.
D'nus de Nevill tenet ibid. per cartam vj ten. &c. acr. terrae & redd. ij s.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Inq. p. m. Edw. Parke, 10 bishop Booth, cor. l. Athirton, arm. esc.
: In the inquisition it is described
The manor of Colpikehill, with the appurtenances held of the lord bishop
in capite
by military service, and rendering to the said bishop, at his exchequer in Durham, yearly at the usual term, fourteen shillings and five-pence: And there are in that manor six tenements and one hundred acres of land, which Richard del Parke, Edward's father, lately had of the lord Nevil, a messuage and three acres of land, formerly Ade Scot's, and a messuage and thirty acres of land, which were formerly John Scot's and Alice his wife's: The premisses were worth yearly, above all reprisals and out-goings, forty shillings.
— It passed from the family of Walkers on the death of William Walker, without issue, in the sixth year of bishop Dudley, he leaving his wife Alicia surviving, and several sisters. The manor afterwards came to the family of the Newtons, and by marriage to the present Andrew Robinson Bowes,
esq
where he has a neat little mansion, on a fine elevated and healthful situation, in a good sporting country. He has lately erected stables and other conveniences adapted to a hunting seat, to which use he now appropriates it.
SATLEY is next named; a small place creeping in a narrow vale, with a mean chapel placed on an eminence to the north: It was formerly a chapel of ease to Lanchester, but was severed in the year 1768 in consequence of endowment, under an augmentation by queen Ann's bounty. It was anciently a distinct chapelry, and had a release of all tithes, obventions, and claims, granted by Philip de Sancta Helena, rector of Lanchester, and confirmed by bishop Richard de Marisco: It is not in charge
Certified val. 11l 4s,—Queen's bounty 200l.
Curates.
Rob. Richardby.—Miles Patric, cl. lic. 9 Jul. 1736.—William Adey, cl. lic. 14 Sep. 1744. p. m Patric.—Abra Gregory, A. M. lic. 13 Feb. 1768. p. res. Adey.—John Wheeler, A. B. lic. 7 Aug. 1773, p m. Gregory.—
Thomas Capstack, 1783, p m. Wheeler.
.
The first proprietor we find of the vill of Satley was Robert de Grenewelle, in the sixth year of bishop Beaumont, who held of the bishop
in capite,
paying forty shillings rent, and thirteen shillings and four-pence for the mill
Inq. p. m. 6 bishop Beaumont, cor. vic. in pleno com. Dun.
. No farther mention is made of this family there, the lineal descendant now possessing Greenwell, otherwise called the Ford, half a mile to the south of Lanchester town; a pleasant retirement. Hugh de Tesedale had lands in Satley-heigh, of six-pence rent, and in Shorneton, held in drengage, in the fifth year of bishop Hatfield.— John del Chambrè, in the same year, had lands there, held of the bishop by fealty and four shillings rent; he left four sisters, of whom Juliana was one, and Eda the daughter of another sister his heirs: Juliana married Peter de Heswell
Inq. p. m. Peter de Heswell, 35 bishop Hatfield, cor. Will. de Bowes, esc.
, and they held the manor of Satley by homage, fealty, suit at three head courts, and four shillings rent. By bishop Hatfield's Survey it appears the Heswells got the lands of Eda, another of the heiresses of John del Chambrè, and that the vill of Satley was then the possession of William de Merley
Satley.
Liberi Tenentes.
Willielmus de Merley, tenet villam de Satley cum Molend. ibid. contin. c. acr. per servic. forin. red. liijs. iiijd.
Haered. Patri de Hesswell, tenet j ten. &c. acr. terrae quond'm Adae de Chambr. per servic. forin. redd. iiijs.—& j Claus contin. xxx acr. terrae & redd. per ann. j d.
Terrae Scaccarij.
Johannes de Chestr. & ij alii &c.—
Hatfield's Survey.
. The Heswells held lands here for many generations, and the Merleys in the twelfth year of bishop Langley, failing in male issue, on the death of William Merley the estates descended to divers females, his sister's children, and under that sub-division were dispersed in other families
Inq. p m. Will. de Merley, 5 bishop Skirlaw, R. de Boynton, esc.
Inq p. m. Will. de Merley, 12 bishop Langley.
. The family of Ever possessed some small portions of land here
Inq. p. m. Rad. Eure mil. 17 bishop Langley, c. Rob. Eure, esc.
.
BUTSFIELD is seldom mentioned in our records. It was the ancient estate of the Heswells, and in the first year of bishop Bury, in an inquisition taken on the death of William de Heswell, we find he held lands there of the bishop
in capite
by homage and foreign service, and thirty-three shillings rent. In bishop Hatfield's Survey, Heswell's lands appear in the hands of the lord under a writ of
cessavit;
the operation of which ancient process was to seize the estate of him neglecting or ceasing to perform his services to the lord of the fee; and as we hear no more of those lands in the records, it is probable they never were restored
Buttesfeld.
Johannes Prentys & Ricardus filius ejusdem tenet j mes. & xxiiij acr. terrae red. xxxij s. iiij d.—Rogerus de Ode, tenet. j mes. & xxx ac. terrae de Antiq. Domin. & redd. per ann. xv s.—Tenet. vij acr. & dimid cum Torali, &c. redd. iij s. x d. ob.— Will's Hert j mes. xxx acr. de Antiq. Domin. redd. xv s.—Ricardus de Birley j mes. &
. xxxiij acr. redd. xvij s. ij d. &c.
Et sunt ibid. lxix acr. terrae quond'm Ricardi Hessewell existen. in Manu D'ni per breve de cessavit. Et j
. apud
hed, quae soleb' reddere per ann. xxxj s. viij d. modo vast.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Old Nat. Brev. so. 136.—Fitz. Nat. Brev. so. 280.—Fleta Lib. v. cha. 34.— Reg. Orig. 237.— New Book of En
s, &c.
.
Nothing relative to SCATERLY appears in the records.
LANGLEY is named next. The extensive ruins of the ancient hall yet remain in a fine elevated situation, of a southern aspect, near the banks of the river Brune, embowered in a thick forest. The first note we have of this place is in the Boldon Book, where it is mentioned to have been granted to Arco le Dispenser, by bishop Pudsey, in reward of services performed, as well to Henry bishop of Winton as himself, the bishop of Durham having purchased a moiety of the premisses for the purpose of that gift
Langleia.
Arco Dispensator habet Langleiam pro servitio quod secit Henrico bonae memoriae episcopo Winton, quam pro eo quod fecit D'no Hugoni Dunolm. Episcopo cujus medietatem idem d's episcopus emit de propria pecunia sua & dedit eidem Arconi cum servitio ulterius medietatis & reddit dimid. marc.—
Boldon Buke.
Langley.
Ricardus le Scrop Miles tenet villam de Langley quond'm Henrici de Insula per servic. for. redd. vjs. viijd. tenet stagnum molendini villae praedictae & redd. per an ij d.—
Hatfield's Survey.
. Langley having afterwards escheated to the See, bishop Rob. de Insula granted the same to Henry de Insula about the year 1280
Copied from the original in the charter chest of the duke of Bolton, at Bolton hall, in Wenslydale,
1758,
by T. Gyll,
esq
Universis Christi, &c. Rob'tus, &c. Noverit universitas vestra, nos dedisse, &c. dilecto & fideli nostro Henrico de Insula p' homagio & servitio suo totum manerium de Langley cum pertinentiis q'd fuit eschaetum eccl'ie n're Dunelm. He'nd & tenend eidem Henrico & heredibus suis vel suis assignatis de nobis, &c. reddendo inde annuatim nobis, &c. ad scaccarium Dunelm. dimidiam marcam argenti, &c. Et faciendo sectam ad omnes curias Dunelm. Et forinsecum servicium quantum pertinet ad vicesimam partem feodi unius militis, &c. Volumus etiam & concedimus, &c. q'd predictus Henricus & heredes sui & sui assignati com'unicent cum omnibus animalibus & averiis suis in forensecis pascuis & pasturis n'ris & succ. n'or. Et q'd totam terram ad dictum man'ium p'tinentem omni tempore anni seperabilem habeant & illam includere posuit p' voluntate sua & q'd idem Henricus & heredes sui & sui assignati & omnes homines sui liberi & villani quieti sint de panagio porcorum suor. p' forestas n'ras &c. Et q'd quieti sint de sectis molendinorum n'ror. Et q'd idem Henricus & here's sui & sui assignati possint in dicto tenemento molendinum construere & habere p' voluntate sua. Et de tallagiis cum contingerint sint quieti. Et quod habeant Housebote & Haybote p' visum sorestarior. n'ror. de boscis n'ris, &c.
Bishop Robert held the See only eight years and some months, and was elected in
1274.
. How this manor escheated we have no evidence. About the year 1306, the manor having again reverted to the See, was granted by bishop Bek to lord Henry Percy, and the gift received ratification from king Edward II. in the fourth year of his reign, 1310
Rex omnibus, &c. Inspeximus cartam quam venerab Pater A Patriarcha Hierosolomitanus & Epus. Dun. secit di'lco & fideli n'ro H. de Percy in hec verba, &c. &c.
A. permissione, &c. Sciatis nos dedisse, &c. manerium nostrum de Langeleye cum omnib's suis p'tinentiis. Tenendum & habendum p'dum manerium dicto d'no Henrico & hedib's suis & assignatis liberè quietè bene in pace & hereditarie imperpetuum cum omnibus suis p'tinentiis, tam in servitiis liberorum quam villanorum cum eorum servitiis eschaetis wardis releviis parcis vivariis stagnis silvis molendinis aquis & omnibus aliis et predictum manerium pertinentibus sine ullo retenemento reddendo, &c. Nos autem donac'oem, &c. confirmus, &c. Teste me ipso apud Berewicum super Twedam decimo nono die Decembris, &c. Pat. 4, p. 1, m. 7.—
Rymer's Foedera, vol. iii. p. 241.
. How long it continued the estate of the Percys we are also ignorant. In bishop Hatfield's Survey it is set forth, that
Richard le Scrope held the vill of Langley, formerley the estate of Henry de Insula;
and by the inquisition taken at his death in the sixteenth year of bishop Skirlaw
Inq. p. m. Rich. le Scrope, 16 bishop Skirlaw, cor. W. de Claxton, chiv. 1404.
, it appears he held the same by the fourth part of a knight's fee, paying yearly seven shillings at the bishop's exchequer, and performing suit at three chief courts: He was succeeded by Richard son of Roger, then an infant of ten years old. By an inquisition taken in the fifteenth year of bishop Langley, 1421, on the death of Richard lord Scrope of Bolton, it is stated, that he had divested himself of the manor and vill of Langley some time before his death, and that Ralph Eure, chiv. was seised thereof to him and his heirs; and by an inquisition taken on his death, in the seventeenth year of the same bishop, he appears to have died possessed thereof by the name of
Maneria & villa de Langley & le waterfall cum p'tin. que h'uit ex feoffo. Rici de Scrop, chiv.
We do not find Langley mentioned in any succeeding inquisition taken on the death of any of the Eures. In the second year of bishop Booth, on the death of Henry lord Scrope
Inq. p. m. Henry lord Scrope, 2 bishop Booth, cor. R. Ogle Mil. esc.
, it is stated in the inquisition then taken, that Richard le Scrope and others had been enfeoffed in this manor, with divers other estates, by virtue of the licence of bishop Nevill, but the trust is not specified: The feoffor Henry left John his son and heir, who was grandfather of Henry after mentioned, and probably the confidence reposed consisted of divers limitations in tail, by virtue of which it descended to Henry lord Scrope the feoffor's grandson, who by the inscription after mentioned, is presumed to have built the hall, of which the present ruins are remains. An engraving of this inscription was published in the Antiquarian Repertory in 1775, from a drawing made by Mr Rob. Hutchinson, in 1771, and we presume communicated by Thomas Gyll,
esq
with the following account
Page 285, 286.
.
At Langley hall, in the parish of Lanchester, is a mantle-piece of stone, over a large fire place, with an inscription thereon in capital letters: The inscription relates to Henry lord Scrope, of Bolton, in Yorkshire, who married Margaret the daughter of Thomas lord Dacre, of Gilsland, in Cumberland. The arms on the second quarter are those of Tibetot, or Tiptoft, an heiress of which family married an ancestor of the said Henry lord Scrope, whose coat of arms are engraved with hers, and the same are depicted in the upper windows on the south part of the parish church of Richmond, in Yorkshire. The escutcheon, by the division on the wife's side, on the right hand, looks as if intended for him and his two wives, for he was twice married; but the arms on the side of the wives are so worn away that they are not distinguishable. The uppermost seems as if something like bars or barry were in them; bars were in the arms of Greystock: The other should be Scrope of Upsal, his second wife, whose name was Alice, daughter of Thomas lord Scrope, of Upsal, by Margaret his wife, daughter of Thomas lord Dacres, grandfather of Thomas lord Dacres above mentioned.
We must observe further on this inscription, that the lines are not to be read direct, but are broken in the center, and stands thus, so far as the letters are distinct:
HENRICVS. § SCROPE. § MIL.
XI. § DOMINVS. DE § BOLTO—.
—ET § VXOR § EIVS § FILI—
— DACR § ET GRAISTOKE.
by this it appears he was the eleventh lord of Bolton, and she the daughter of lord Dacre, of Greystoke. Mr Allan further illustrates this matter by the genealogical table on the next page.
From the family of Scrope, Langley came into the family of Paulet, by marriage with one of the natural daughters of Emanuel Scrope, earl of Sunderland, and not many years ago was sold by Mr Paulet, son of lord William Paulet, who was the second son of the first duke of Bolton, to Henry Lambton,
esq
of Lambton, late member of parliament for the city of Durham, and is now the property of John Lambton,
esq
the heir general of that ancient family.
The manor of
Rydding
was part of the large possessions of Gocelinus Surtays: At the time of his death it was held of the bishop of Durham, at two marks rent
Inq. p. m. Gocelinus Surtays, 22 bishop Hatfield, W. de Menevyll, vic.
Sir William Scrope
Sir Henry Scrope, ob. 10 Ed. 3.
Richard lord Scrope
Roger lord Scrope
Marg. d. &c. of Sir Rob. Tiptoft, knt.
Richard lord Scrope
Henry lord Scrope
Eliz. d. of John lord Scrope of Masham
John lord Scrope
Henry lord Scrope
Henry lord Scrope of Bolton, died 25 H. 8th.
Margaret d. of Thomas Lord Dacres, of Gillesland, by Eliz. his wife, only daughter of Sir Rob. de Greystoke, knt. heir of Ralph baron of Greystoke.
John lord Scrope of Bolton, temp. H. 8.
Cath. d. to Henry lord Clifford, of Cumberland.
From whom were numerous descendants.
Alice d. and heir. of Thomas lord Scrope, of Upsall and Marshall, ob. s. p. 1st wife.
Sir Geoffrey Scrope 2d son
Henry Scrope, lord of Masham
Stephen lord Scrope of Masham
John lord Scrope
Eliz. d. of Ralph lord Greystoke
Eliz. d. of John lord Scrope of Masham
Thomas lord Scrope of Masham
Thomas lord Scrope, of Upsall and Masham, ob. 19 H. 8.
Margaret d. Thomas lord Dacres, of Gillesland, by Philippa, d. R.
▪ Neville, earl of Westmor land.
Alice d. and heir. of Thomas lord Scrope, of Upsall and Marshall, ob. s. p. 1st wife.
Chaworth, 2d wife, s, p.
C. A.
, then valued at twenty shillings. By an inquisition taken on the death of Alexander Surtays, in the thirty-sixth year of the same bishop, it was returned, that he had enfeoffed William de Skipwyth and others in this manor with other estates,
to the intent that his heir should not take until he attained his full age, thereout to pay his debts; and when his heir attained that age, then that the trustees should enfeoff him in the premisses; which conveyance was made in fraud and collusion to prevent the lord having ward and marriage of the heir.
In all future inquisitions taken on the death of the Surtays, no mention is made of Rydding, so that probably it had become an escheat, of which there had been no remittance.
The ancient records furnish no more of
Stobbilee
than that in the seventh year of bishop Skirlaw it was the possession of the family of Thweng, held of the bishop
in capite,
rendering fourteen shillings at the exchequer, and was of the clear value of thirteen shillings and four-pence.
Of BROOM and SLALEY there is nothing remarkable on record, or of NOSTEELS and PECHE.
HELEY is mentioned in the Boldon Book as the property of Alan de Chilton; it had given a local name to a resident family
Heleie.
Alanus de Chiltona tenet Heleie sicut in carta sua continetur pro Cornsord quam calumniabatur, quam etiam defendere debet contra omnes calumniatores, & redd. dim. marc.—
Boldon Buke.
Heley Aleyn.
Paior Dunolm tenet maner. de Heley cum pertin. quond'm Johan de Chilton per servic. sorin. & redd. per ann. vj s. viij d.—tenet ij. acr. &c. xijd.—vj acr. &c. iij s.—Bishopelos xiiijd. iij de vasto appruat. iij d.
Hatfield's Survey.
, for in the first year of bishop Hatfield, we find one Peter de Heley died possessed of the manor, which he held of the bishop
in capite,
rendering six shillings and eight-pence for all services, of the clear value of one hundred shillings; Richard the son of Hugh de Chilton was found his heir: In bishop Hatfield's Survey it appears, that the priory of Durham had acquired this manor in mortmain, and it is noted as having been the estate of John de Chilton, from whom it is probable it was purchased.
The first notice we find of CONSET, or as it is called in the old records
Conkesheved,
is in the Boldon Book, where it is said Arnold Baker had it in exchange for
Trillesden.
By an inquisition taken on the death of Thomas Grey, chiv
Inq. p. m. Tho. Grey, chiv. 25 bishop Hatfield, coram W. de Menevill, vic.
. it appears, he, with his wife Margaret, held a moiety of this manor by homage, fealty, and a rent of eleven shillings, then of the clear value of forty shillings: And by the survey made by that prelate it is stated, that William de Stokes held the other moiety, formerly the estate of Richard Harpyn and Hugh Skewland. In an inquisition taken on the death of Robert son of Ralph de Nevil, in the thirteenth year of the same bishop, it is set forth, that jointly with Margaret his wife, in her right, under a feoffment made by Thomas Grey deceased, her former husband, to her and the heirs of his the said Thomas's body, he held a moiety of the manor of Conkesheved, by the services before mentioned, and the park of Conkesheved held also of the bishop under ten shillings rent. In the tenth of bishop Langley it was returned on an inquisition, taken after the attainder of Thomas Grey, that at the time of his forfeiture he was possessed of
Conset Park,
and a moiety of the vill of
Conset
Ao xo Thom. ep. 27 Jan. cor. Wil. de Claxton Mil. esc.
. We have several succeeding inquisitions, on a claim set up by the heir of Thomas Grey, of an intail created of his estate, by virtue of which limitations the forfeiture was contended; but as no act of restitution appears in the records of that time, it is to be presumed the pretence proved futile; and we do not see
Conset
specified in any future inquisition touching that family, till after the 18th year of bishop Nevill, when on the petition of Ralph Grey the bishop's nephew, son of Alicia his sister, they were regranted, with Urpath, Rowley, and other forfeited estates
Cursitors Rolls, and Rudd's MSS.
. A moiety afterwards became the property of the Middletons of Silksworth
Inq. p. m. Tho. Midilton ar. de Silksworth, 4 Dudley, cor. Tho. Popeley, ar. esc.
. Another moiety of Conset was the estate of William Pegham, by the feoffment of William Melot, with various limitations to his issue, and remainders to other branches of his family, by virtue of which it vested in Margaret the wife of William Ward
Conekesheved.
Arnaldus Pistor habet Conekesheved in eseambium de Trillesden & reddit xxiiij s.—
Bolden Buke.
Conekesheved.
Thomas Grey & Will's de Stokes tenent manor de Conkesheved quond'm Ricardi Harpyn & Hugonis de Skewland per servic. sorin & soleb' reddere per ann. ut in libro de Boldon xxiiij s. modo xxij s.—tenet Calfelus, & redd. ad Fest. Mich's j libr. Piperis. —
Hatfield's Survey.
Arth'us Simpson custos Bosci de Cockburn, seod. 13 s. 4d. Temp. Crew, Geo. Winship, p' vita.
Mickleton's MSS.
Inq. p. m. W. Pegham, 17 bishop Langley.
, in whose family it continued till by the marriage of Isabella, the heiress, with John Birtley, it passed to that family, of whose heiresses one married a Kellawe, and the other Egleyne.
KNYCHELEY, by bishop Hatfield's Survey, appears to have given a local name to its possessor, and that it afterwards was the estate of Robert de Kylowe: It soon after became part of the property of the Surtays family; and in the fourteenth of bishop Skirlaw it belonged to Thomas de Claxton, held of the bishop by military service, paying fifteen shillings yearly at the exchequer, and was then of the clear yearly value of seventy-eight shillings and four-pence
Knycheley.
Liberi Tenent.
Robertus de Kylowe tenet villam de Knycheley quond'm Will'i de Knycheley per servic. forin. red. xv s. j d.
Terrae Scaccarij.
Johannes Todd tenet j mes. & iiij acr. terrae vocat Richardland & red. per ann. ij s.
Terr. Vast.
Et sunt ibid. cij acr. & iij Rod. terrae in Mora de Knycheley soleb't reddere per ann. xxxiiij s. iiij d. vast.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Inq. p m. Tho. de Claxton, 14 bishop Skirlaw, cor. R. Conyers, chiv. & esc.
. In bishop Langley's time it was the estate of the Eures, and for some descents remained with them.
IVESTON is named in the Boldon Book, with its services. In bishop Hatfield's Survey the manor or vill is set forth as part of the possessions of Kepyer hospital
Ivestan.
Ivestan reddit ij marc. & j vaccam de Metrid. & arat j acr. & dimid. apud Langcestriam & est in magna Caza cum ij leporarijs, & quadrigat vinum cum viiij bobus.—
Boldon Buke.
Ivestane.
Magister hospitalis de Kypier tenet villam de Ivestan per servic. sorin. & j vaccam de Metrich, & arat j acr. & dimid. apud Langchestr. & erit in magna chacea episcopi cum ij leporarijs, & quadrigat vinum d'ni episcopi cum viij bobus redd. liij s. iiij d.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Iveston is a copyhold manor of similar customs to those of the bishops.
. Robert Hall, in the sixteenth year of bishop Booth, died seised of forty-six acres of land there, held of the bishop
in capite,
leaving Robert Hall of Stanley his heir
Inq. p. m. cor. Hen. Radelyffe, ar. esc.
.
Of BENFIELDSIDE we have nothing more in the records than what appears in Hatfield's Survey
Benefeldside.
Liberi Tenences.
Robertus Coigniers tenet maner. de Bires libere per cartam de haerede Will'i de Dalden contin. c acr. terrae bosci & pastur. per servic. sorin. & redd. per ann. xl s.
Thomas Brome tenet j pastur. &c. Robertus Saddeller, &c. &c. Johannes Heiter & vij alij tenentes xiij s. mes. & divers. parcell acrar. red. cert. red. Tenentes inter se tenent j tostum & xviij acr. terrae quond'm Rici. Grene redd. vj s. ij d. — et omnia antiqua vasta ejusdem villae pro iij s. iiij d. &c.
Et est ibid. quodd'm molend. aquat. &c. —
Hatfield's Survey.
Custodes o'ium boscor. apud Benfieldside & alibi infra paroch. de Lanchester & Ball'i itin. Scc'ij Epi. Lib. Pat. in Offic. Aud. Epi. so. 37, Custos seod. 10 s. & Ball. 40 s.—
Mickleton's MSS.
; and of NEWBIGGIN, HARTIBUKE and FORDS there occurs nothing memorable.
PONTOP, in the sixteenth year of bishop Hatfield, was the estate of John de Gourley and Johanna his wife, limited to the heirs of their bodies; also a moiety of the manor of Shepmansteel and land in Byllingside, held of the bishop by homage and fealty, and certain rents
Pontop.
Will's de Gourelay tenet maner de Ponthop contin. lx acr. terrae & redd. ad fest. S. Cuth. in sep. ij s.— j claus contin. xv acr. vocat. le park & redd. v s.—j mes. & xlviij acr. terrae quond'm Will's Gilleson soleb. reddere xvj s. modo viij s.—j mes. & xxx acr. terrae vocat. Shippingstele & redd. per ann. ij s.
Hatfield's Survey.
Inq. p. m. I. de Gourley, 16 bishop Hatfield, cor. W. de Claxton, esc.
. It continued in that family a long time, and by an inquisition taken on the death of William de Gourley, in the eighth year of bishop Skirlaw, it appears the manor was held by the service of offering yearly
Unum Bysancum
at St Cuthbert's ferretory on his festival, and another to the bishop by way of oblation. It afterwards became the estate of the Claxtons, and in the 25th year of bishop Langley, on the death of William Claxton, is described to consist of a mansion-house and garden, an hundred acres of land, and an hundred acres of pasture, held under fifteen shillings rent and suit at three capital courts. It then came into the family of Bulmers, and Bertram Bulmer sold it to Anth. Meabourn in the twentieth of queen Elizabeth
Cursitors Rolls.—
Rudd's MSS.
. It is now part of the possessions of the Swinburns.
ROWLEYS are distinguished in bishop Hatfield's Survey by the names of East and West Rowley
West Rowley.
Johannes Alotson tenet j mes. & xxvj acr. terrae quond'm Johannes Chestr. & redd. jx s. iiij d. Alanus Swale & Johannes Stanlawe, &c.
Tenentes villae tenent inter se cxxiiij acr. de antiqu. vasto quae soleb. reddere per ann. xl s. iij d.—modo red. ad Fest. S. Michaelis v s.
Et est ibid j molendinum apud Alaynsorth & redd. per ann. xx s.
Thomas Grey tenet ibid. maner. dictae villae cum domin. terr. quae soleb. reddere xxjx s. modo redd. per ann. jx s. vij d.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Est Rowley.
Haeredes Hugonis de Redheugh tenent villam de Est Rowley quond'm Will'i Roule per servic. forin. & redd. per ann. ad iiij terminos v s. iiij d.—
Hatfield's Survey.
; and Thomas Grey is therein said to hold the manor of West Rowley, with the demesne lands, and the heirs of Hugh de Redhugh the vill of East Rowley, formerly the estate of William Roule. In the twenty-sixth year of that prelate it appears by an inquisition taken on the death of John de Howden, that he died seised of the manor of Rowley, which we presume implies East Rowley, held of the bishop
in capite,
by homage, fealty, suit at three chief courts, and six shillings and eight-pence rent. He left no issue, and his estates descended to his sister's daughters, one of whom, Agnes, married Thomas Beke to her second husband, having issue by her first husband Hugh del Redhugh a son, Hugh, who was heir to this manor, and possessed the same after her death, in the eighth year of bishop Skirlaw: The male line of the family of Redhugh, as observed before, failing, their possessions were severed among coheiresses. The possessions of Grey, after being in Robert de Nevill for a short time, came to Thomas Grey, who was attainted, and were restored to Ralph Grey, with Conset as before mentioned. The family of Bland held of the prior of Durham a small parcel of land here.
COLLIERLY was the estate of the Gildfords in bishop Bury's time, and remained part of their possessions till the name was extinguished in female issue
Col
r
ey.
Johannes de Gildeford tenet maner. de Colierly contin. cc acr. pastur. terr. & bosc. per servic. forin. redd. ij s.—Et xlvj acr. & dim. terrae per cart. & redd. per ann. xv s. vj d.—
Hatfield's Survey.
. They also possessed
Green-lawe
near Collierly, which the Redhughs afterwards acquired. Robert Rhodes died in the seventeenth year of bishop Booth; and by an inquisition then taken, it is stated, that he had conveyed this manor, with the lands called Greenlawe, held under Ralph earl of Westmoreland, by his deed dated the 1st of April, fourteenth Edward IV. to John Hebburn and William Lawson, but no trust is specified; and that he died without issue, leaving Alicia, the wife of Richard Bainbrigg, daughter of John Rhodes his brother his heir. This manor was divided by two parceners, and in the seventeenth year of bishop Dudley, Johan, the wife of Robert Robson, died seised of one moiety thereof, with a moiety of Greenlawe and Smether Strother, leaving Thomas Hodgson, her son by a former husband, her heir. The records before us do not point out how the other moiety descended.
CHESTER
We now enter the parish of CHESTER-LE-STREET, which adjoins to Lanchester towards the west
Cestria.
Cestria
cum villanis & dominio sine instauramento, & cum piscarii & molendino de eadem villa reddit xxiiij marcas. Molendinum de
Urpath
est ad firmam & reddit iiij marcas.
Pelton
& medietas de
Piktree
quas
que
Gualeramus de Cestria tenet reddit ij marcas.—
Boldon Buke.
Cestr.
Liberi Tenentes.
Johannes Mylote tenet maner. de Whytehill contin. lvij acr. & iij claus quond'm. Rogeri de Aula ibid redd. per annum ad iiij term. in episcopatu Dunolm. constitut xl s. viij d. cum aliis— Will. de Kellowe tenet maner. de Harebarowes cum pertin. redd. per ann. ij s. &c. cum aliis.
Terrae domin.
Peter Jordinson cum aliis—in toto xxli. — Et praedicti tenentes tenent inter se xiij acr. terrae vocat Smythland pro quo nihil solv.—Idem tenentes terrar. dominicar. recipiunt de quolibet selfode j opus Autumn. praedict. domin.—Idem tenentes tenent inter se capitale mes. cum gardin j acr. prati infra firm. domin. cum pastur. pertin.
Terrae bond.
Johannes Wilkynson & xij alii, &c.
Opera bond.
Praedicti tenentes bond solebant reddere pro operibus Autumnalibus arur. & heriatus; & hujusmodi ad Fest. S. Martini quolibet anno ut dicunt.
Et idem tenentes cariabunt d'no & senescallo cariag. consuet. & quadrigabunt j dolium vini, & faciunt opera ad molend. consueta & reddunt pro qualibet bovat ij d ob. pro
yaresilver
ad sest'm S. Martini tantum.
Punderus ibid. reddit pro officio suo per annum ccc ova.
Cotag.
Tho. de Pelton cum aliis, &c. praedicti. cotar. solebant solvere inter se annuatim ad firm. cotag. viij d. omnes cotar. supradicti. solv. inter se annuatim ij s. viij d.—Quilibet tenens cotag. praedict. facit quolibet anno iij opera autumnal. & j opus ad mol. item quolibet eorum dat pro yaresilver ad fest'm S. Martini.— S'd ob in omnibus.
Terrae Scaccarij.
xxxvij diversi tenentes, &c. Will's de K—tenet ij molend. aquatica ibid. cum tolnet. cervis. & cum communi surno. quod solebat reddere xx s. p' ann. & dicta molend quae solebant reddere per ann. xxiili. & modo red. p' ann. ad iiij term. xvjli. vj s. viij d.
Idem tenet piscariam aquae de Were ibid. redd. per ann. xli. xiij s. iiij d.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Within this manor are Ryton, Whitburn, Cleadon, Bowdens, and Chester, all which places attend the bishop's court there. Expensae prandij & equor. subvunter p' prefectum, qui p' consuetudinem est in officio p' duos annos. Habet terras p' expensis, sed quae minime expendent oneri.—
Mickleton's MSS.
Chester in the street. Demises p' epu'm (Wolsey) de Minerio Carboni. epi de Chester & le Blackburn usq. aquam de Tayme. Et stagni de Chester nec non piscal eid. p'tin. Rot. cl.—Stagnum voc. Chester dam. & piscar. inde spectan. dimiss. p' epum (Tunstall) Joh'i Lumley mil. d'no Lumley pro 90 ann. sub. red. 5l.— Rot. cl.
Fuerunt ibi'm Decanus & 7 Prebendarijs, de Lamesley, 2d de Lamesley, de Pelton, de Chester, de Tanfield, de Birtley, de Urpeth.
Carta Antonii Dunelm. epi de funda'cone eccl'iae collegiatae ib'm 3 Dugd. Mon. 44.
De ballivis & collectoribus reddit. epi. ib'm.
Feod. 40s. 26 Hen. 8. — Anth. Simpson, bal. &c. & custos bosci de Cockburn (f. 13s. 4d.) pro vita.
(Morton) Laurencius Cooke gen ballivus d'nij Halmot & villae dech. & collector red. & firmar. villae de Ch. Ac custos sive sorestar. o'ium boscor. epi infra Halmot de Chester pro vita.—Geo. Winship, 1662.
Mickleton's MSS.
.
The reader will revert to the account given of this place in the annals of the bishops
Vol. i. p. 52.
, where he will find more at large the particulars here briefly recapitulated. Bishop Eardulph, who was the eighteenth prelate of the church of Lindisfarn, flying with the remains of St Cuthbert before the barbarians who made their sacrilegious descent on that island, not settling at Crake, where he sat down for a time, rested at Chester, and there began to build a church about the year 883; and the religious body retained this residence till the year 995, when they rested at Durham. Tanner says, the See removed hither "had probably a chapter of monks, or rather secular canons attending it."—Chester entertained the same religious society that existed at Lindisfarn, and they were again translated to Durham, so it is pretty certain there was no establishment of monks here, but of seculars. Egelric, the fourth bishop of Chester, was induced to take down the humble building of wood which his predecessor erected for his episcopal church, and raised one more magnificent: Finding great treasures, he conveyed the same out of his bishopric to enrich the monastery of Peterborough, from whence he came: We have already offered conjectures on this treasure-trove, and therefore shall not dwell on it here. On the introduction of canons regular into the cathedral church of Durham, Chester, it is said, was one of the churches appointed to receive the seculars, who, without having committed offence, were removed from the seat of dignity, and no doubt were provided for in the most ample manner.
The church of Chester, divested of its state and authority, became merely a parochial rectory
Chester church dedicated to St Mary and St Cuthbert.
Rectors.
Mervinus Preost de —, 1085.—Walerandus Clericus de —, 1155.—Jolanus.— Robertus, 1230.—Walerandus 1245.— Robertus le Bursar. 1258.—Sire Walt. de Clifford, cl. 1280.— Mag'r Alan de Esingwalde, 1280, p. depr. Clifford.—Quinto Idus Nov. A. D. 1286, rectoria mutata in collegiat eccl'iam ex decano & vii prebendiis compositam. Pryn. vol. iii. 443.—
Randal's MSS.
Chester parish. That branch which is in Chester ward
 
£.
s.
d.
 
£.
s.
d.
Book of rates
28
8
10
Value of lands, &c.
4389
13
5
The branch in Easington ward
4
2
4
 
1686
6
0
Totals
32
11
2
 
6075
19
5
Grey's MSS.
Land tax at 4s. in the pound.
 
 
 
County rates at 6s. 1d.
 
£.
s.
d.
£.
s.
d.
Chester
61
8
9
2
1
0
Harraton
49
15
10
2
6
2
Urpeth
28
0
0
1
5
11½
Pelton
18
0
1
0
15
0½
Birtley
18
10
2
0
15
4¾
Edmondsley
17
4
5½
0
16
8
Walridge
10
1
8
0
9
4
Plausworth
14
15
4
0
15
1½
Great Lumley
69
17
0
3
0
11
Registred estates. Chester; Mrs Mary Owen, 10l. Mr John Owen dec'd 70l. 10s.—Holmfide; Mr Rog. Meynald, 10l.—Waldridge: Mr John Owen dec'd 16l.—
Mann's MSS.
Bishop's rents. Demesnes 16l. 7s.—Eures 15l. 18s. 2d.—Ball. 23l. 15s. 1d.—Urpeth colliery 1l. 6s. 8d.— Chester colliery 5l.—Chester ferry 1l.—Tanfield colliery 1l.
, till the year 1286, when that munificent prelate, Anthony Bek, in holy reverence to the memory of St Cuthbert, and in honour of the place of his rest for upwards of a century, founded here a collegiate church, consisting of a dean, seven prebendaries, five chaplains, three deacons, and other ministers. The account given of this transaction in Stevens's Monasticon, is to the following effect
Extract from the foundation of Chester deanry, with the king's inspeximus of the pope's confirmation, and the ordination of bishop Beke, with the king's assent, &c.
WE do ordain, &c. That the aforesaid church of Chester shall from henceforth become and be a collegiate church, and there shall be in the same hereafter one dean and seven prebends, so that the dean be in perpetual sacerdotal order, taking the cure of souls, and keeping continually personal residence there, &c. &c. And to the intent he may better bear and undergo the premisses, we will and firmly ordain, that to the deanry shall be totally assigned and annexed the revenues as well in the church of Chester, as in the chapels aforesaid, (Tanfield and Lamesley) to wit, of mortuaries, wool, lamb, milk, calves, hay, lint, hemp, hens, geese, pigs, and of all minute tithes and personal tithes, together with the rent and court of the tenants of the church and the town of Chester, and of Waldridge, and the whole dominical land of Herverton. And we do assign also unto the said deanry the messuages to the said chapelry of Lamesley and Tanfield belonging with their courts and demesnes. Provided and excepted, that the prebendaries of both these places shall have a certain portion or part of our limitation, wherein they may competently repose their corn. The dean shall also have the fishing in the river of Wear, and the tithe of fishing. Moreover every one of the prebendaries who shall have the three first prebends, shall find of his own cost and charge one vicar chaplain; and touching the other four prebendaries remaining, every prebendary shall have a vicar deacon ministering in the same church in canonical habit, and shall observe the manner of singing according to the use of the church of York or Salisbury. And that every one of them shall be weekly observers of their turns, &c. And that this community may not beget and bring forth discord, but that every one may content himself with his own, we have thought good to distinguish these prebends in this wise, that is to say, that unto the first prebend shall belong the predial tithes universal of
Great Lumley, Little Lumley, Lampton, Woodsend,
as also the tithes of the coal mines: To the second prebend of
Lamesley, Kibblesworth, Ravensworth, Darncrook, Hedley, Ladesend, Tugersland, Ravensholme,
and
Newhouses:
To the third of
Pelton, Pokerley, Pelaw, Picktree, Tribley, Edmundsley, Stevesley,
and
Nettlesworth:
To the fourth of
Chester
and
Whithall:
To the fifth of
Tanfield, Lynce, Crook, Tanfield-leigh, Stanley, Stanley-hall, Caldsit,
and
Steels:
To the sixth of
Birtley, Harverton-moor,
and
Harden:
To the seventh of
Ulston, Urpeth,
and
Twisle.
And for all the residue of the parish of Chester, viz. the predial tithes of Plawsworth and of Waldridge, and of all the wastes within the same parish, that shall hereafter be reduced into tillage, we do assign and allot the same unto the common residence within the parish of Chester, amongst them only equally to be divided who for three months space at least in the year continually or for the most part shall make their personal residence in the same church, &c.—
Randal's MSS.
Vide Prynn's Collection, vol. iii. p.
453.—
Mon. Angl. tom. iii. p. ii. p.
44.
.
A suit having long depended between Sire Walter de Clifford, cl. on the one part, and Master Alaine, of Esyngwalde, on the other, the former claiming the rectorship or parsonage of Chester, and the latter alledging that he had for certain lawful causes been deprived by Robert (de Insula) bishop of Durham and himself by the same bishop substituted in his place, both parties being unwilling to be any further entangled with suits and contentions, yielded up all their rights in the said church into the hands of Anthony (Bek) bishop of Durham, and submitted it to his ordinance, together with the chapels, lands, fruits, and revenues unto the same belonging. The bishop finding the church sufficiently endowed, and yet ill served, ordained it should for the future be collegiate, and that there should be in it a dean and seven prebendaries, the dean to maintain two chaplain's assistants, and other necessary clerks, and to repair the chancel, and find ministers for the chapels of Tanfield and Lamesley; for the defraying of which expence he assigned him the altarage of the said church and chapels, with other revenue, and the fishery on the river Were, together with the rent and court of the tenants of the church in the town of Chester and of Walrige, and the whole dominical land of Hervertone. In like manner he regulated the several prebends, and the manner of the canons sitting in their stalls, and all other particulars as in other collegiate churches, and ordered the tenth part of the portion of every non-resident to be given to the residents; and in case there were no residents, then to the use of the church or poor. This ordination was made by the bishop, at Auckland, in the third year of his consecration, was confirmed by king Edward I. at Berwick, on the 12th of June, 1292, and by Pope Boniface VIII. at Rome, in the Ides of March, 1296, in the third year of his pontificacy
Chester on the street deanry.—True value 40l.—Reg. Tunstal.
DEANS.
Will. de Marclan, jur. canonici, p. oc. 1311.
Wilkin's Concil. vol. ii. p.
397.
Mr Roger de Gillyng,
officialis Dun.
oc. ult. Jun. 1345
Joh. de Salthorpe, al's Sculthorp,
Newe. vol. i. p.
403
Joh. de Kyngeston, cl. 26 Sep. 1354, p. res. Salthorp
Joh. de Derby, oc. 4 Jun. 1390.—
King's chaplain, preb. of St Steph.
17
Jun.
1370,
archd. of Northumb.
3
Dec.
1370,
preb. of Driffield, in Y. ch.
28
Jul.
1372,
r. Weston-Longuevill, co. N.
1359,
pres. by k. which he exchanged for Barum archd. coll.
23
Feb.
1354
Tho. de Hexham, 1407.—
Receiv. gen. of Eland and Norham shires, Rot. Skirlaw, No
38,
r. of St Katharine, London,
22
Sep.
1388
John de Ashbourn, 1409
John de Newton, cl. 1454
Joh. Bawdwyn, cl. 1491.—
He was admitted soh. in King's Col. Cam.
1453
John Balswell, 1501.—
R. of Middleton in Teesdale
Rob. Chamber, 13 Jun. 1505
Tho. Keye, L. L. B. oc. 14 May, 1532.—
He was preb. of Shildon, in Auckland col. ch. and resigned
1
Sep.
1533.
He resigned this deanry for an annual pension of
24
l. during life
Rich. Layton, 1 Sep. 1533, p. res. Keye.—
He was LL. D. archd. of Buckingham,
1534,
r. of Bremton, co. Northump. r. of Sedgefield,
1535,
preb. of Kentishtown, St Paul's,
1523,
&c.
Will. Warren, 1544, p. m. Layton.—
He was the last dean, and had at the dissolution an annual pension of
18
l.
9
s. which I find was paid him in
1553,
but how long after I know not—Willis.
Randal's MSS.
Pensions paid in
1553,
to Chester College.—Willis's Hist. of Ab. vol. ii. p.
73.
William Warren, last dean 18l. 9s.—John Marshal, preb. of Wifr
the 2l.—Rich. Atheyr, preb. of Tanfield 2l.—John Smitherton, preb. of Chester 2l.—Claudius Rent, preb. of Lomeley 4l.—Rich. Cliffe, preb. of Birtley 1l.— Ja. Brackenbury, preb. of Benfield 1l.—Rich. Norman, minister 5l.—Tho. Stone, minister, 4l.— William Parker, minister 2l.—John Hinde, minister 5l.
.
Under this establishment the church of Chester continued till the dissolution of collegiate churches and chantries, in the first year of Edward VI. when, by virtue of the statute, the deanry, prebends, rectory, and the several rights of that church became vested in the crown. The prebends of the seven portionists, with the vicarage or deanry of this church, were taxed in the Lincoln valuation, 20th king Edward I. 1291, at 146l. 13s. 4d. but 20th king Henry VIII. 1534, the deanry and seven prebends were valued at no more than 77l. 12s. 8d. in the whole, viz. the deanry 41l.—Prebend of Lamesley 5l. 16s. 8d.—Pelton 5l. 16s. 8d.—Chester 6l.—Second prebend of Lamesley 10l.—Tanfield 3l. 6s. 8d.—Birtley 3l. 6s. 8d.— And Urpath 2l. 6s. This deanry, with its members, continued in the crown until the 16th year of James I. when, by letters patent under the great seal, dated at Westminster, the 26th of July, he gave and granted to Sir James Ouchterlony, knight, and Richard Gurnard, or Green, citizen and cloth-worker, of London, their heirs and assigns, the deanry, prebends, rectory, and vicarage of the collegiate and parish church of Chester; which instrument was inrolled in the high court of chancery: In 1618, by indenture, also inrolled in chancery, they conveyed the premisses to William Darling, in see: In 1620, William Darling died, leaving Edward his son and heir: In 1622, Edward Darling, by indenture, also inrolled, conveyed the same in fee to Thomas Liddell, of Ravensholme, in this county,
esq
In 1626, Liddell conveyed to Jeffery Walker; and in 1629, he conveyed the same to Richard Hedworth,
esq
In the ninth year of bishop James, a special livery was granted to Richard Hedworth, son and heir of John Hedworth
(inter al's)
of the house of the deanry of the collegiate church of Chester with the barns, orchards, &c. &c. and the tithes of wool and lamb in the parish of Chester, and in Lamesley and Tanfield, to the said deanry belonging, and the tithes called
thrush tithe,
in the parish of Chester, Lamesley, and Tanfield. Cursitors Rolls, Rudd's MSS. So that it appears by the various conveyances, from the time the deanry came out of the crown in 1609, there was a private trust therein for the Hedworth family, the above livery being in 1614.
in whose family it descended in the following succession, to Ralph in 1680, to Ralph his son, in 1683, to John his son, in 1704, who presented William Lamb clerk to the curacy, and John, by his will, dated the 15th of December, 1746, devised the premisses to his two sons-in-law, Sir Ralph Milbanke, and Sir Richard Hilton, baronets, and their heirs: Sir Richard Hilton died on the 1st of July, 1755.
The church of Chester being reduced to a curacy, is not certified, and Sir Ralph Milbanke and the representatives of Sir Richard Hilton are patrons
CURATES.
Geo. Brome, oc. 23 Feb. 1564
Geo. Browne, July, 1578
Wm Massey, cl. occurs 13 July, 1579
Brian Adamson, oc. 7 Feb. 1582
Tho. Lyddal, cl. oc. 14 July, 1585
Robert Willis, 1616, p. m. Lyddal
Rob. Hunter, oc. par. reg. 1631
William Hume, A. B. 1673
Edm. Browne, 1674
Nich. Conyers, 23 Sep. 1685
Nath. Chilton, A. B. 1690, p. res. Conyers
W. Lambe, A. M. (p. pres. Joh. Hedworth,
esq
) p. m. Chilton
Francis Milbanke, 22 July, 1769, (p. m. Lambe) rector of Croft, p. pres. Sir Ra. Milbanke
Lewis Powell, p. m. Milbanke, p. pres. W. Jolliffe,
esq
representative of Sir R. Hilton
John Nelson, cl. 1780, p. m. Powell, p. pres. Sir Ra. Milbanke.
Tho. Wood, D. D. gave by will 100l. to the poor of this place.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population in this parish from 1660 to 1679
1729
133
375
1760 to 1779
4169
1010
3552
Increase
2540
877
3177
Number of burials in the last year 16
.—Computed number of inhabitants 4890.
. It is a handsome edifice of stone, covered with lead; the tower from the foundation is square, but when it rises above the roof, takes an octagonal form, and in this part is apparently much more modern; it is finished with a most elegant stone spire, one of the finest in the north of England, being in the whole one hundred and fifty-six feet in height: The accurate plate will save much description. The whole length of this building on the outside is fifty-four paces. The church within is of a regular form, having two side ailes, separated from the nave by five pointed arches supported on pillars, two of which towards the east in each row are light and round, but the third, an odd conceit in the architect, is formed of two cylinders put together, the broad sides facing the nave and ailes: The nave is in length from the foot of the tower thirty paces, and in width, including the ailes, from the north door to the south, fifteen paces: The pulpit is placed against the center pillar in the south row; the sounding board heavy with rude carving. The whole church is decently stalled, and kept clean; the pavement is new; there is a handsome white marble font, and a gallery at the west end: The south aile is lighted with three regular windows of three lights each, under pointed arches; in the eastern one are two coats of arms. The chancel has been altered in modern times, and is only six paces wide by eleven long; the arch which separates it is supported on light brackets, and the stalls are without much ornament. There are four windows to the south, and a large modern-sash to the east.
The north aile, which now is solely appropriated to and filled with a line of tombs of the Lumley family, has anciently been further extended, three arches and two columns appearing in the outside wall, as if some small cloister formerly lay contiguous to the church: The windows discover the alteration, which perhaps was made when the tombs were placed, for there are three square windows within the old arches, and a window under a pointed arch beyond them. Before Before we speak of the monuments, it must be noted, that bishop Matthew granted licence in 1594, authorizing John baron of Lumley, to translate hither the remains and monuments of his ancestors, particularly of John Lumley, and Ralph Lumley, from the yard of the cathedral church at Durham, where they were placed near the north door
Registr. Modern. Eccles. Dunelm. Mathew, p. 465, d. & ch. lib.
.
This solemn arrangement of effigies, this aile of death, cannot be visited without some emotion by those who know the family, descended of an illustrious race of ancestry, or have traced their history and possessions. The genealogical table which attends the description of Lumley castle will save a tedious rehearsal of monumental inscriptions.
The first effigy at the foot or west end of the aile, is by an inscription on the wall, noted to appertain to Liulphus, that unhappy minister of Walcher bishop of Durham, who provoked the massacre at Gateshead church: The figure is cut in stone, but much mutilated, having lost the feet; the right hand is extended, grasping the sword, as in the action of drawing the weapon; the legs are straight. It will be necessary to note why such different attitudes had acceptance in monumental effigies. Persons who died in battle on the victorious side, were represented with the helmet on the head, the shield on the lest, and the sword on the dexter side, naked, and with the point upwards. Those who died in battle on the vanquished side, were represented on their tombs without their coat over their armour, with their feet resting on a dead lion, having their hands joined on their breast, the visor lifted up, and the sword in the sheath. Those who died prisoners were represented without helmet, sword or spur. One who had served a great part of his life in the army, and afterwards became a religious person, was represented upwards in the habit of the order he professed, and below in complete armour. A gentleman or knight, who had been killed or vanquished in single combat, was represented in compleat armour, his battle ax out of his arms, lying by him, and his left arm across his right. If he had been victorious, he was represented armed on all points, with his right arm across over the left, and his battle ax in his arms. The son of a general, or governor of a castle or fortified city, if he died when the place was besieged, was pourtrayed in complete armour, with his head resting on an helmet instead of a pillow
Barley's Diction.
.
The second effigy,
Utredus filius Liulphi,
cut in stone, his head, shoulders, and arms covered with a coat of mail of chain work, the legs of the same, the right hand grasping the sword hilt in the action of drawing the weapon.
The third,
William de Lumley,
accoutred the same as the last; a parrot held by the tail in the right hand, the legs crossed, the right foot uppermost, the feet rested on a lion couchant—an elegant figure; the folds of the vest skirts easy and finely disposed. This William was the son of Uchtred, and grandson of Liulphus before-mentioned.
The fourth,
William Lumley
mil. in a suit of armour, his legs crossed, the left leg uppermost, the feet broken off, his right hand drawing the instrument, his head rested on an helmet; his hair cut at the fore-top, and in stiff curl.
The fifth,
William de Lumley
mil. son of William, in a suit of armour, his head rested on his helmet, the right hand drawing the sword; the hair like the fourth; the legs straight, and the feet gone.
The sixth,
Roger,
in a suit of armour, much mutilated, the legs, hand and shield gone, hair curled as the former. This personage married Sybil, daughter and coheiress of Hugh de Morwic, who had two other daughters, Theophania and Beatrix; and they, in the fourth year of king Edward I. made partition of the knights fees of their inheritance.
The seventh, in a suit of armour, a shield, no sword, his right hand on his breast, his hair curled, his head supported on cushions, the legs straight, and feet resting on a shield of his coat-armour: This tomb belongs to
Robert de Lumley,
eldest son of Roger, and father of Marmaduke, whose tomb is next noted.
The eighth,
Sir Marmaduke de Lumley,
with a curled beard, a cap in upright folds and terminating in a point, his head resting on his gauntlets laid across each other, the fingers inwards; his hands elevated on his breast, three parrots scattered on his garments below the girdle; his legs appear to have been placed straight, but are much mutilated: This personage's mother was the eldest daughter of Marmaduke de Thweng, a great baron, lord of Kilton and Thweng, with many other manors in Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Westmoreland; she and her sister Catharine were coheiresses of William, Robert, and Thomas de Thweng their brothers: Sir Marmaduke's eldest son, Robert, was under age at his father's death, and he died during his minority, leaving Ralph his next brother and heir: They derived from their mother the manors of Moressome-Magna, Moressome Parva, Ocketon, Lythum, Merske, Brotton, Hylderwell, Skynnergreen, Lyvertoun, North Cave, Rotese-on-the-Wolds, Lound, Langtose, Swaythorpe, Thorp juxta Kilton, Foxholes, Thweng, with the advowson of the church, Kilton castle, Stotevil-fee, and Bulmer-fee, all in the county of York
Esc. 49 king Edw. III. p. 2, 5.
.
The ninth effigy,
Ralph,
first lord of Lumley. This is a remarkable figure, cut in coarse freestone, and was one of those removed from the yard of the cathedral church at Durham, by virtue of the licence before noted: It is dressed in a straight-sleeved jacket or coat of mail, his visor is rib'd down the front, and has two transverse slits for the sight; the breast is covered with the shield bearing three parrots, the sword under the shield unsheathed, the point upwards rested against the face of the visor; the legs are straight, supported on a dog lying at rest. This personage was a knight in the ninth year of king Richard II. and in the retinue of Henry de Percy, earl of Northumberland, in the expedition into Scotland, where he behaved so gallantly, that the king in the year succeeding appointed him governor of Berwick: In the twelfth year of that reign he was taken prisoner by the Scotch: After his release he held Berwick as the earl's deputy for some time: Was summoned to parliament among the barons from the eighth year of king Richard II. till the first of king Henry IV, inclusive, when he was attainted, and had his lands seized for being a confederate with the earl of Kent and others against that accession, and opposing the disposal of Richard. The associators appeared in arms, and took possession of the town of Cirencester, whilst their troops lay encamped without; but on an insurrection of the inhabitants, the lords were overpowered, and carried prisoners to the king at Oxford, where they suffered immediate execution. It seems lord Lumley was not among the prisoners, for by the record of his forfeiture and attainder, it is set forth he died in the field of battle: If we give credit to the device on the monument, when he fell he was of the victorious party. His wife Elianor was daughter of John lord Nevill of Raby, and sister of Ralph earl of Westmoreland: In her widowhood, she had in the second year of king Henry IV. an assignment of twenty pounds a year during life out of the customs at Hull, which was confirmed by king Henry V. in the first year of his reign, with the further grant of lands and tenements in Beautrove and Stranton, in the bishopric of Durham, and Holme in Holderness. The eldest son, Thomas, died in the fifth year of king Henry IV. seised of the castle of Lumley Parva, and the manors of Stanley, Stranton, Ricklesden, and Beautrove, in the bishopric, together with divers other large estates in Yorkshire and Northumberland; dying without issue, he left Sir John Lumley, knight, his brother and heir, then twenty years of age. John earl of Somerset had obtained a grant of several manors and estates, which came to the crown under the attainder of Ralph lord Lumley, to the value of three hundred and sixty pounds a year; a great possession in that age
Rymer's
o
d tom. viii. p. 16
.
.
The tenth effigy, Sir
John Lumley:
A figure resembling the last described, and most probably the second monument removed from the cathedral church-yard.— To this personage king Henry was much attached; in the sixth year of that reign he had livery of all the castles, manors, and lands of which his father was seised at the time of his attainder; and for his services in Scotland he received the honour of knighthood: He also fought bravely in the French war, for which gallant conduct and fidelity to his sovereign, he had full restitution of blood by parliament in the thirteenth year of that reign, as well what was attainted by the conviction of his father, as Thomas his brother; so it is expressed in the parliament rolls. In the wars of king Henry V. he also signalized himself: Under the conduct of Thomas duke of Clarence, the king's brother, he was in the battle of Baugy, in the province of Anjoy, on Easter-eve, 1421, to which the English army was betrayed by one Andrew Forgusa, a Lombard, who was employed by the duke as a spy, and falsely represented the numbers and situation of the enemy: Many of the English lords were averse to the enterprize, and dissuaded the duke from approaching his foes on so slight and suspicious a report; but the General implicitly placing confidence in his emissary, resolved to seek the foe and engage; his troops disdained the idea of deserting danger, and, when too late, found they were attacking four times their numbers; feats of distinguished bravery were displayed, and all the efforts of intrepid courage exhibited, but in vain; for in the dreadful carnage of a defeat, there sell the duke, lord Lumley, the earls of Tankerville and Angus, and the lord Ross, together with many of inferior rank: He left a son and heir,
Thomas,
whose tomb is not in this arrangement at Chester.
The eleventh effigy,
George lord Lumley:
This figure, like the rest, is recumbent, dressed in robes, a heavy ruff or roll about his neck, his hands elevated, curled hair and beard: The dress similar to the robes of a peer as now worn. This personage was knighted by king Edward IV. He was sheriff of Northumberland in the second and third years of that reign; an office then not only of great trust and authority, but of vast emolument, for no account was made to the king's exchequer till the third year of king Edward VI. but the issues and profits of the bailiwic were appropriated to the sheriffs proper benefit, with all debts, fines, and amerciaments, emoluments accruing from alienations, intrusions, wards, marriages, reliefs, &c. the intention of which appropriation was to reward their diligence in protecting the borders against the Scots, and for that purpose to keep sufficient guards in pay. But that duty being lessened by the appointment of wardens of the marches, in the third year of king Edward VI. it was enacted, that the sheriffs of Northumberland should thenceforth like others account to the exchequer. In the sixth year of king Edward IV. he, with Sir Robert Folbery, were elected knights of the shire for the county of Northumberland, in the parliament summoned to meet at Westminster, and in the return of the writ are stiled
milites gladiis cincti.
He was appointed sheriff of Northumberland in the eighth year of that reign, and continued in office four successive years. In the twentieth year he was in the duke of Gloucester's army, at the taking of Berwick, having a great command in that expedition, and in the rolls of the troops is called lord Lumley: He was one that entered Edinburgh at the head of the forces, and with lord Fitz Hugh, the lord Scrope of Massam, and others, was made a knight banneret in Hooton-field, as a testimony of approved gallantry. On the accession of king Henry VII. he attended the king in his northern progress. In the thirteenth year of king Henry VII. he served in lord Surrey's army, when they raised the siege of Norham castle, where the king of Scots lay in person; and from thence penetrating into Scotland, made a diversion, and destroyed some considerable fortresses in sight of the Scotch army. On the espousals of the princess Margaret of England with James king of Scotland, 1502, he, with his son and their retinue, accompanied by eighty horsemen in their train, apparelled in the family liveries, met the queen at Darlington and attended her to Berwick. He married one of the daughters of Roger Thornton,
esq
a merchant at Newcastle, by whom he got a large fortune, and among other possessions the manors of Witton in Northumberland, Ludworth and the Isle, in this county. There happened much litigation touching this lady's fortune, through one Giles Thornton, a natural son of her father; and the contention becoming personal, lord Lumley slew him at Windsor castle ditch. Bishop Sherwood, in the sixth year of his pontificacy, granted a pardon to George lord Lumley, of all felonies, and restoration of forfeitures
Cursitors Rolls.—
Rudd's MSS.
. His eldest son and heir apparent died in his life time, to whom the following monument was erected.
The twelfth effigy, Sir
Thomas Lumley:
This figure is in a suit of armour, his hair curled, and head resting on a helmet, the hands elevated, and legs extended: Quarters the royal arms with a bar, having married Elizabeth Plantagenet, a natural daughter of king Edward IV. by lady Elizabeth Lucy. He appeared on behalf of the clergy and commonalty of the diocese of Durham, in the eleventh year of king Henry VII. when the three estates of the kingdom were summoned to assemble at Westminster on the 27th of October, 1495. He left four sons, Richard, John, George, and Roger
From him the
Lambtons, Conyers,
and
Trollops,
of this county, are descended.
; the eldest became heir to George lord Lumley, the grandfather: He also left three daughters, Ann married Ralph lord Ogle, of Bothal; Sibil, who married William baron Hilton of Hilton, in this county; and Elianor, who married — Creswell, of Creswell, in Northumberland.
A mural monument of blue marble, inscribed to
Richard lord Lumley,
the first earl of Scarborough.
In a circle above, an inscription to
George Lumley,
son of John, attainted the twenty-ninth of king Henry VIII.
The thirteenth effigy,
Richard lord Lumley,
in robes, with elevated hands, a ruff or roll about the neck. This personage was the eldest son of Thomas Lumley, as before mentioned, and had summons to parliament among the barons, in the first year of king Henry VIII. He left by Anne his lady, daughter of Sir John Conyers, of Hornby castle, his eldest son John, who succeeded to the family honours and estates.
The fourteenth and last effigy,
John lord Lumley.
The figure dressed in robes. This personage, in the fifth year of king Henry VIII. on the Scotch invasion, joined the earl of Surrey with a large force, and was one of the principal commanders of the van guard of the English army at the battle of Flodden Field: It is mentioned by several historians, that this van guard shewed great bravery in the engagement, and were victorious over that body of the enemy commanded by the earls of Crawford and Montross, who both fell in the field. In the following year he was summoned to parliament, and in the year 1520, he was present at the interview the king had with the emperor Charles V. at Canterbury, and that with the king of France near Ardres: He served under the earl of Shrewsbury in the Scotch expeditions; and in the twenty-first of the reign, had summons to that parliament which existed five years by prorogations, and struck the first blow in the dissolution of religious houses: He was in the combination that encouraged the king to the divorce of queen Catharine; and at last fell from his loyalty, and joined the northern confederates in the pilgrimage of grace, but accepted the terms of the duke of Norfolk's proclamation. His son George fell into other broils, and was one of the partizans of the lord Darcy, was apprehended and committed to the Tower, and soon after suffered death. John the son of George Lumley, at the death of his grandfather, was an infant under age; and in the first year of king Edward VI. on his petition was restored in blood, as son and heir of George, and cousin and heir of John, then late lord Lumley, but sundry parts of the estate were severed from the family, the act of restoration not repealing the attainder of his father.
Another monument of one of the ancestors of this family is noted to us by Mr Grose, which he says he found in an old book of pedigrees in the British Museum; as it is not one in the arrangement before mentioned in remembrance thereof we have given a cut of it. We conceive that this is the monument of Thomas the son and heir of Sir John Lumley, whose effigy is the tenth in the arrangement, and had been removed from its station in Chester church, for some cause not noted there.
This auncient monument or statuarie, broken and wasted nere the ruynes of the chappell in the first ward within the castel called Barnard's castel, was at the honourable means and motion of John baron Lumley, sent by Sir William Bowes, knight, into this church at Chester, to be placed with his ancestors, April 1594."—The patterne of this I have seen at Barnard castle. S. Garter, 1591.
We lamented on observing in the church-yard the bason of an old font, thrown out and subject to be defaced and spoiled, instead of being laid up from prophanation, and preserved in respect to the donor; it is charged with four arms. Those of Lumley in the first shield, in the second Lumley quartering Thornton's; in the third Thornton's single; in the fourth Lumley quartering Nevill's; whereby it is denoted that this bason was given to the church by George lord Lumley, probably in the time of king Edward IV.
There were two chantries in Chester church, but the founders are not known; the one dedicated to St Mary, of the yearly value of 5l. 8s. 10d. to which belonged a tenement in Seaton Carowe
Rot. James 42.
. Thomas Holyman, incumbent at the time of the dissolution had a pension granted him of 4l. which he received in 1553
Willis.
. The other chantry was dedicated to St. George, of the yearly value of 5l. 3s. of which Jeffrey Glenton was priest at the dissolution, and had a pension of 4l. which was also paid him in 1553.
The effigy of a prelate, which Leland speaks of in the body of this church, denoting where St Cuthbert lay, was removed, we presume, when the floor was new paved, as no account was to be obtained of the monument when we viewed the church.
The deanry house, the seat of the ancient family of Hedworths, is in a pleasant situation, commanding a fine view of Lumley castle and the adjacent grounds, and is surrounded with excellent meadow grounds
The manor of Chester deanry is a copyhold manor.
.
Gunceastre, or Goncaceastre, was the ancient Saxon name of this place, and as Leland says, was derived from the rivulet Cone, which there empties itself into Were. In the Itinerary, vol. i. p. 83, it is said,
There is no bridge memorable on Were beneath Duresme but Chester bridge. Were cummith within a quarter of a mile of the town self of Chester. From Duresme, over Framagate bridge to Chester in the Streate, partly by a little corne ground, but most by montainiouse pasture and some mores and firres. Or I came in Chester I saw scant half a mile of it, Lomeley castel upon a hill, having praty wood about it, and about Chester self is likewise sum woode. The toune of Chester is chiefly one streate, of very meane building in height. Ther is beside a smaul streate or 2 about the chirch collegiate, that hath a dean and prebendaries, but it is a very meane building; and in the body of the chirch is a tumbe, with the image of a byshop, yn token that St Cuthbert ons was buried or remained in his feretre there. At the very ende of the toune I passid over Cone brooke, and there is a fair stone bridge of 3 arches over it. Thens to Gateshed vii miles by montainiouse ground, with pasture, heth, more, and firres; and a litle a this side Gatehead is a great cole pit.
The present town of Chester is about a mile in length, consisting chiefly of one long street, has many good buildings in it, and is commodiously situated for supplying the numerous miners employed in the neighbouring collieries and other works
At Whitehill, or Whitwel, in this neighbourhood, is a blast furnace, which makes iron metal from iron stone dug out of pits in the neighbouring fells. These fells have been very much worked for iron stone (supposed by the Danes, when they were in possession of this kingdom) as appears from the great quantity of scoria or cinder which is found upon the fells and extends many miles westward. The method in those times had been to melt the iron stone with charcoal in a large smithy hearth, called a bloomery, and then in another hearth to melt it down again and reduce it to bar iron for all manner of country uses: And when the wood failed they removed their hearths to where was more plenty, so that evidently they must have blown their bloomery bellows either by hand or with horses, or have known the use of air furnaces, as the most scoria or cinder is found upon the high grounds, where no water could be obtained. About three miles west of Chester is a place called the Old Furnace, where very lately was to be seen the bottom of a furnace hearth, according to the usual method of building them now, but of much smaller dimensions: They had blown the bellows with a water wheel, as appears by the cut of a water race to convey it to the wheel from an upper part of the burne. On the opposite side of the burne is a place called the Allum Well, from the water having a strong aluminous smell and taste. The method of making metal is by putting into a large furnace about thirty-four feet in height, and twelve or thirteen feet wide in the broadest part, but contracted at top and bottom, a certain number of baskets of coal or cinders, to a certain number of boxes of iron stone, calcined for the purpose, and a quantity of lime stone sufficient to slux it; when a sufficient quantity is melted into the hearth or bason at the bottom of the furnace, it then is tapped with an iron bar, and run off into metal pigs, or large vessels prepared in loam, (a composition of sand, clay, &c.) for different uses, such as brewing vessels, soap pans, engine pumps, cylinders, cannons of all sizes,; and the iron stone and coal used here, are allowed by the best judges at his majesty's warren at Woolwich, to make the strongest and soundest cannons that are proved there.—
From the information of Mr Smith, agent to these works.
.
This is one of the bishop's copyhold manors, and of extensive jurisdiction: It gives name to the ward, and has a coroner: There was a forester here anciently
Vide Annals bishop Hatfield.
. Whilst the servile tenures existed, it experienced no great severity of service, as appears by the preceding notes from the Boldon Book and Hatfield's Survey; and there was a money payment instituted in lieu of some duties in that early period.
THE PEDIGREE OF THE NOBLE FAMILY OF LUMLEY, EARL OF SCARBOROUGH. (VOL. 2. PAGE
98.)
The Family of LUMLEY is undoubtedly of great Antiquity; and various are the Traditions, touching the original Stem thereof; which, like most others of such long standing, is so ingulphed in Obscurity, that no other Light than Conjecture is now to be had thereof: the most probable (besides the authority of so great men as Camden and Sir William Dugdale) is, that this Family is denominated from LUMLEY on the Banks of the River Wear, near Chester-le-Street, in the county Durham, where being seated, they were thence surnamed, as the manner of those ages was, to stile men from the places where they lived or were born, and by the best Records, &c. are said to be descended from
Liulph, a nobleman of great note in the time of Edw. the Confessor, and in great credit and esteem with Walcher, Bishop of Durham, which was the cause of his death, as is recorded by Holinshed Chron. vol. II. p. 12 and 13, and who quotes Simeon Dunelmensis.
Algitha, d. to Aldred, Earl of Northumb. by his wife Adgina, youngest dau. of King Etheldred II. and by her had issue
Uchtred, who first took the name of Lumley.
.......
Sir Will. de Lumley a baron in Durh.
Judith, dau. ..... Hesilden, of Hesilden.—Seages Bar. MSS.
Sir William de Lumley, only son.
Sir Will. de Lumley,
. ..... d. and coh. of Sir Walter de Audre, of Morton Audre, in co. Durham, Knt.
Sir Rog. de Lumley, who in the time Hen. III. mar.
Sibill, one of the daus. and cohs. of Hugh de Morwic, an ancient baron in Northumb. died in 1298.
Sir Robt. de Lumley, 26th Edw. I. on death of his mother, succeeded to several manors in Northumb. at which time it was certified that he was her son and heir, and of the age of 26 years.
Lucia, eldest of the 3 daus. and cohs. of Sir Marmaduke de Thewng of Kilton Castle, in co. York, a great baron in those parts.
Sir Marmaduke Lumley, was prior of St. John of Jerusalem in Ireland, commonly called Killmainham, and who took his mother's arms, which were argent, a fefs gules between 3 parrots vert, each gorged with a plain collar of the 2d, and have ever since continued the paternal arms of this family.
Margaret, d. and h. of ...... Holland.
Sir Robt. de Lumley died under age, 12th Dec. 48th Edw. III. as is evident by an inquisition, taken 49th Edw. III. at Gisburgh, when it was proved that Ralph de Lumley, was his brother and heir, and of the age of 13 years.
Sir Ralph de Lumley, a Knt. in 9th Rich. II. in 16th same reign obtained a licence (Pat. 16 Rich. II. p. 2. m. 22.) to make a castle of his manor house of Lumley.—Had summons to parlia. amongst the barons, from 8th Rich. II. to Hen. IV. inclusive, when he was attainted, and had his lands seized.—Died in battle, as is evident from a record (Rymer, vol. VIII. p. 529.) whereby all his lands and tenements, goods and chattels, were adjudged in parliament to be forfeited.—Bur. at Duthrm.
Eleanor, d. John Lord Nevill, of Raby, and sist. of Ralph, 1st Earl of Westmorland.
Thomas de Lumley, died during his minority, 31st May, 5th Hen. IV. leaving his brother Sir John Lumley, Knt. his heir.—Esc. 5th Hen. IV. n. 30.
Sir John de Lumley did homage, 6th Hen. IV. & had livery of all lands, &c. his father, Sir Ra. was seized of at time of his attainder, & was knighted, and by act of parl. 13th Hen. IV. restored in blood.—Killed at battle of Bangy, in province Anjou, on Easter Eve, 10th Hen. V. 1421.— Bur. at Durham.
Felicia, dau. Sir Mat. Redman, govr. of Berw.
Sir Tho. de Lumley, 10th Hen. VI. making proof of his age (claus. 10th Hen. VI. n. 16.) had livery of his lands, and was afterwards knighted, 33d Hen. VI. constituted governor Scarborough Castle for life.—In 1st Edw. IV. on his petition, the attainder of Ralph Lord Lumley, his grandfather, was reversed, and from that time to 12th Hen. VII. had summons to parliament arcordingly.—Ob. 1485.
Margaret, d. Sir Jas. Harrington, brother to Sir William H. Lord Harrington, and Knight of the Garter, in the reign of Hen. V.
Sir Geo. Lumley, Knt. 2d Edw. IV. when sher. Northb. In 6th Edw. IV. was Knt. shire for that county, and in 8th Edw. IV. was again sheriff.—In 20th Edw. IV. he bore the title of Lord Lumley, and on 22d Aug. that year was made a knight banneret.—Died 23d Hen. VII.— Seagar. Baron. MSS.
Eliz. d. and coh. of Rog. Thornton,
Esq
a wealthy mercht. in Newc. upon Tyne, by whom he had lordships of Witton, in co. Northumb. Walworth, and the Isle, in co. Durham.
Thomas Lumley,
Esq
died in the life-time of his father, 1487.
Eliza. Platagenet (nat. dau. King Edw. IV. by Lady Eliz. Lucy) by whom he had issue.
Rich. Lumley succeeded his grandfather, and had summons to parliament among the barons, 1st Hen. VIII.—Ob. 26th May, 2d Hen. VIII. 1511.
Anne, d. of Sir John Conyers, of Hornby Castle, in co. York, Knt. Garter (sist. to William Ld. Conyers) by whom he left iss.
John, Lord Lumley, was 18 years of age at death of his father. In 5th Hen. VIII. was at the battle of Flodden Field.—In 6th Hen. VIII. had summons to parliament, as Lord Lumley. Ob. 36th Hen. VIII.—Bur. at Gisborough, in the abbey.
Joan d. of Hen. Lord Scroope, of Bolton, by Elizabeth his wife, d. Hen. Percy, 3d Earl of Northumberland.
George Lumley,
Esq
was concerned in an insurrection with the Lord Darcy and others, committed to the Tower, and in June 29th, Hen. VIII. found guilty of high treason, and suffered death in the life-time of his father.
Jane, 2d dau. and coh. Sir Rich. Knightly, of Fawsley, in co. Northampton, Knt.
John Lumely, on the death of his grandfather, was in inf. in 1st Edw. VI. restored in blood and a new barony of Lumley, created and limitted, by express words, to the said John in tail male (the ancient barony being merged in the crown by the attainder of his father Geo.) on 29th Sept. 1553, was made knight of the bath.—This nobleman caused monuments to be erected in Chester-le-Street church, to the memory of his ancestors, in order as they succeeded one another, from Liulph down to his own time (Camb. Brit. by Gibson, vol. II. p. 950.) Obiit 11th April, 1609, bur. at Cheam, in co Surry.—His children dying in his life-time, this new barony expired with him.
1st wife, Jane, eldest of the two daughters and coheirs of Henry Fitz Allan, Earl of Arundel.
Charles,
Thomas,
Mary. all died in the life-time of their father.
2d wife, Eliz. d. of John, Lord Darcy, of Chick, who surv. her husband without having issue.
Jane mar. Jeffery Markham,
Esq
died without issue.
Barbara mar Humph. Lloyd, of Denbeigh,
Esq
of whom see an account below.
From the above named Barbara and Humphrey Lloyd, descended the Rev. Dr. Lumley Lloyd, of Cheam, in co. Surry, who was Rector of St. Paul's, Covenant-Garden, London, and died in Nov. 1730.—In 1723, he presented a petition to the king, suggesting, that he was heir at law, to Ralph the first Lord Lumley, as son of Henry, son of Henry, son of Henry, son of Barbara, by Humphrey Lloyd above-mentioned, and praying a writ of summons to parliament. The same was referred to the Committee of Privileges, who resolved, that the petitioner had not any right to a writ of summons to parliament.—Humphrey Lloyd was the only son of Robert Lloyd, alias, Rossindale of Denbeigh,
Esq
and had issue Henry Lloyd, of Cheam in Surry,
Esq
who, by Mary, daughter of Robert Prowe of Bromfield, in Essex,
Esq
had Henry his heir, who married Isabella, daughter of Isham Parkyns, of Bunory, in Nottinghamshire,
Esq
and had a son, Henry Lloyd of Cheam,
Esq
who died 3d Dec. 1704, leaving, by Elizabeth, daughter of Benjamin Goodwin of Streatlam,
Esq
one son, the above-mentioned Dr. Robert Lumley-Lloyd.—
See Journals Ho. Parl.
23d
March,
1723.
The male issue being now extinct, we must have recourse back to Anthony Lumley, 2d son of Rich. Lord Lumley.
Anthony Lumley,
Esq
2d son, Rich. Lord Lumley, as is evident by an inquisi. of the court wards, 30th May, 7th Jas. I. as also by the will of the last Lord Lumley.
.... d. Rich. Gray, of the county of Northumb.
Esq
Roger Lumley,
Esq
who married
Anne, d. . ...... Kurtwich,
Esq
had issue several sons and daughters, whereof were—
Rich. Lumley, eld. son and h. was the chief heir male of the family, after the decease of John, Lord Lumley, in 1609, & inherited the greatest part of the estate of his ancestors, by deed of settlement, and the last will of the said John, Lord Lumley, was knighted 19th July, 1619. On 12th July, 1628, was created Visc. Lumley, of Waterford in Ireland.—Bur. at Cheam.
Frances, d. Hen. Shelly of Warminghoist in Sussex,
Esq
John Lumley,
Esq
only son, died in the life-time of his father.—Bur. at St. Martin's, London.
Mary, d. and one of the coheirs of Sir Hen. Compton, (youngest son of Hen. Ld. Compton, ancestor to the Earl of Northampton.)
Richard succeeded his grandfather in his Irish honours, and on 3d May, 1681, 33d Charles II. was created Baron Lumley of Lumley Castle, in co. Durh. and to the heirs male of his body, for want of such issue to his brother Henry, and the heirs male of his body. And on 10th April, 1689, created Visc. Lumley, of Lumley Castle, and on 15th April, 1690, Earl of Scarborough — Obiit. 17th Dec. 1721, and was bur. in Chester-le-Street church.
Frances, only d. and h. of Sir Hen. Jones of Aston, in co. Oxford, by his wife Frances, sist. to Tho. Earl Fauconberg. She died in March 1737.
Henry, Visc. Lumley died of sm. pox, 24th July 1710, and is bur. at St. Martin's in the Fields, in London.— Memb. for Arundel.
Richard, Visc. Lumley succeeded his father as Earl of Scarborough in 1721.—On the 9th June, 1724, elected a Knt. of Gart —Ob unm. 4th Feb. 1739. bur. in St. Geo. chapel, Audley-street, London.
Thomas Lumley, elected a Knt. Bath, 27th May, 1725, and by virtue of an act of parliament, bore surn. of Saunderson, pursuant to the will of James Saunderson, E. of Castleton, who died without iss. 24th May, 1723.—In Feb. 1739, succeeded his bro. as Earl of Scarborough.—Ob. 15th March, 1752.
Frances, 2d d. of Geo. Hamilton, Earl of Orkney, by whom she left issue.
Richard Visc. Lumley, in March 1752, succeeded his father as 4th Earl of Scarborough.—On 12th Dec. 1752, he married.—In Oct. 1765, appointed deputy Earl Marshall of England.—Died .....
Barbara Saville, sister to Sir Geo. Saville, Bart. member for co. York.—Died 27th Dec. 1772.
George Augustus Visc. Lumley, born 22d Sept. 1754, the present Earl of Scarborough.
Frances-Barbara-Ludlow, born on 25th Feb. 1756, died young.
Richard born 3d April, 1757.
Thomas-Charles.
John.
Frederick.
Mary-Arabella.
Geo. Lumley,
Esq
died unmar. Dec. 1732.
Frances, in June 1753, mar. Pet. Ludlow,
Esq
or Ardsallagh, in co. Meath, in Ireland, since created Lord Ludlow.
Anne.
Harriot died unm. 6th Nov. 1747.
William, 3d son, was killed in a sea engagement, in the Mediterranean, 9th April, 1709.
Charles was member in parliament for Chichester.—Ob. 11th Aug. 1727.
John was a col. in the guards, and mem. for Arundel. Ob. Oct. 1739.
James, memb. for Chichester, and groom of bedchamber to the late Pr. of Wales. Ob. unm. 14th March, 1766, & bur. at Chester-le-Street.
Mary mar. Geo. Montague, 1st E. of Halifax.—Ob. 10th Sept. 1726.
Barbara mar. Chas. Leigh, of Leighton, in c. Bedford,
Esq
br. to Th. Lord Leigh of Stoneley, in co. Warw.—Ob. 4th Jan. 1755.
Anne mar. Frederick Frankland,
Esq
late memb. for Thirsk.—Ob. without issue▪ Feb. 1739.
Henrietta died unmarried, 6th Nov. 1747.
Hen. Lumley,
Esq
was a general in the army, and gover. of Jersey, mar. twice & died 18th Oct. 1722. Bur. at Sabridgworth, co. Herts.
1st Elizabeth, d. of .... Thimbley, of co. Lincoln,
Esq
by whom she had no issue.
2d Anne, d. Sir Wm. Wiseman of Great Canfield-hall, in Essex, Bart. by his wife Arabella, sist. and h. to Geo. Hewit, Visc. Hewit, of Goran, in prov. Semster in Ireland.—Ob. 4th March 1736, leaving issue an only daughter.
Frances, who died 13th Oct. 1719, in the 6th year of her age.
Elizab. m. Rich. Cotton, of Watergate, in co. Sussex.
Esq
Frances,
Anne, both died unmar.
Julia mar. 1st, to ...... Germain,
Esq
by whom she had a daughter, Frances, (mar. 1st to Francis Moore,
Esq
son and heir of Sir Hen. Moore; and 2dly, to John Shuckburgh, of Barton, in co. Warwick,
Esq
) and by her 2d husband, Sir Christ. Conyers, Knt. had also an only daugh. named Julia, mar. 1st to Sir Will. Blackett, of Newc. upon Tyne, Bart; 2dly, to Sir Will. Thompson, one of the barons of the Exchequer.
Other sons, who died young or unmarried.
Elizabeth mar. Sir Wm. Langley, of Higham Gobions, in co. Bedford, Bart.—Isabel mar. Rich. Conyers, of Horden, in co. Durham, Knt.
John, Geo.
Roger, who left 3 daus. his cohs. viz. Agnes mar. John Lambton,
Esq
— Isabella, to Rich. Conyers, of Horden.—Marg. to Tho. Trollop, of Thornley,
Esq
Anne mar. Ralph Ld. Ogle, of Bothall.
Sibil, to Wm. Baron Hilton, of Hilton, in co. Durham.
Elizabeth, to ..... Creswell, of Northumb.
Esq.
Roger Lumley,
...... d. Sir Rich. Radcliffe, Knt. Garter, by whom he had a son.
Roger Lumley.
Ralph Lumley.
Joan m. Bertram Harbottle, of co. Northumb.
Esq
Margt. m. Bertram Lumley of Ravensholm, in co. Durh.
Eliz. m. Will. Tilliot,
Esq
William de Lumley.
Marmaduke, he was chan. Camb. 7th Hen. VI. and on 15th April, following 1430, had temporalties of Bishop of Carlisle delivered him, and next day consecrated bishop,—On 18th Dec. 25th Hen. VI. constituted treasurer of England, was 20 years bishop there, and after translated to Lincoln, 1450, which he scarce enjoyed a year till he died.
Elizabeth. mar. Adam Tirwhitt of Kettleby, in co. Lincoln.
Margaret mar. Sir John Clarvaux, of Croft, in co. York, Knt.
Catharine mar. Sir John Chideock, by whom she had two daughs. cohs.
Matilda m. Sir Hen. Thirkell.
Eleanor died unmarried.
Thomas.
William.
Isabel married Sir Wm. Fulthorpe, Knt.
William de Lumley.
Thomas de Lumley.
Sir Rog. de Lumley, Knt. ancestor to the Lumleys of Harleston and Clipston, in co. Northampton.
Marmaduke, who was father of John Fitz Marmaduke, Lord of Horden, in co. Durham, 29th Edw. I.
Matthew de Lumley.
Osbert, whose d. and heir, Ormonda, was mar. to Robt. de Peshall.
Adam, had by gift from Will. the Conq. Uldell and Gilcrouse.— Dug. Monast. vol. I. p. 400.
Odo, had also by a gift from said King Talentre and Castlerigge, with the forest between Galtre and Graecr.—Ibid.
LUMLEY CASTLE
LUMLEY CASTLE
The chief improvement of this country is attributed to cardinal Langley, who disforested the lands, and licenced their being inclosed and brought into tillage.
As this manor appertained to the bishop, we must naturally conclude there were few free tenants therein: In the fifth year of bishop Hatfield, Will. de Birtley died seised of a messuage and thirty acres of land here, held by homage, fealty, and fifteen shillings rent; and Ra. Clerk, in the seventh year of the same prelate, died seised of twenty-six acres of land, held by fealty and ten shillings rent, and sixty acres of wood, by fealty and rendering two arrows; and they are the only free tenants we have met with noted in the ancient records.
Camden apprehended Chester was the
Condercum
of the Romans: Dr Stukeley, in his Iter-boreale, 1725, says,
The Hermen street is very plain, being a straight line hither when we descend from Gateshead fell: I think Bede mentions this station, as called Concester, which retains part of the Roman name. Great coal works too hereabouts. The first wing of the Astures made this their garrison, as the Notitia tells us, being
ad lineam valli;
for though it be not upon the wall, it is reasonable to think his expression is not to be strictly taken; it was convenient that some of the forces that guarded the wall should be quartered at some suitable distance, that they might have room of country for their maintenance.
No inscriptions or other Roman remains have been discovered here; and the name of Chester-on-the-Street derived from its situation on the Roman way, has hitherto been all that led the antiquaries to conceive it was of Roman origin. It is probable, as Dr Stukeley observes, some troops were stationed at a distance from the wall; perhaps they lined the great roads at intervals with small detachments; and this is still more probable, if we admit they knew any thing of pit coal for fuel. But we defer speaking on that till we advance to the banks of Tyne.
For the sake of connection,
LUMLEY CASTLE
is the next place of observation. This castle, one of the seats of lord Scarborough, stands on a fine elevated situation, ornamented with beautiful plantations; the lands rise gradually from the channel of the river Were on the south and west sides; and on the north is the rivulet called Lumley beck: The east front of the castle stands immediately on the brink of a very deep valley, full of wood, through which the brook winds towards the Were. The form of this edifice is square, having a projecting tower at each angle, and a court or area in the center: The corners of each tower are guarded with
u
tresses, crowned with a small turret or observatory; what is singular in the turrets is, that they are octangular, so that they overhang the face of each square of the base, and are machicolated or open for the purpose of annoying assailants by casting down stones, &c. which gives the edifice a singular appearance: The castle is built of a yellow free-stone, which makes it look bright and beautiful at a distance. The chief entrance is at the west front, by a double slight of steps, and a platform, which fills the whole space between the tower; the south front is modern, and brought forward almost parallel with the tower, sixty-five paces in length; the north front is obscured by offices; and the east front retains its ancient form: There is a gateway in the center of the east front, which projects and is guarded by square turrets at the angles, with observatories as before described; above the gate is a gallery formed in the arch, with apertures to annoy an enemy: Above this gate are six shields of arms boldly cut in stone, with their several crests, cotemporary with the building, and which critically give us the date of it.
The arrangement of the arms is as follows: In the center, and elevated above the rest, are the arms of France and England quarterly, being, as we presume, the arms of king Richard II. as in that reign Sir Ralph Lumley obtained licence from bishop Skirlaw, dated 1389, to castellate his house of Lumley; and the architecture of this front is a grand model of the taste of that age: The act of Richard II. mentioned by Mr Pennant, had been intrusional or merely confirmatory
It is said to have been built in the time of Edward I. by Sir Robert de Lumley, and enlarged by his son Sir Marmaduke. Prior to that the family residence was at Lumley, (from whence it took the name) a village a mile south of the castle, where are remains of a very old hall house, that boasts a greater antiquity. The former was not properly castellated till the year 1392, when Sir Ralph, the first lord of Lumley, obtained from Richard II.
Licentiam castrum suum de Lomley, do novo aedificandum, muro de petra & calce batellare & kernellare et castrum illud sic batellatum & kernellatum tenere, &c.
Pennant's Tour in Scotland, pt ii. p. 319.
The bishop's licence for re-edifying and embattling.
Rot. A A. Skirlaw, ep. Dunelm. in dorso, No 37.
Walterus Dei gratia Dunelm. Episcopus. Omnibus Ballivis et Fidelibus suis Salutem. Sciatis quod de gratia nostra speciali concessimus & licentiam dedimus pro nobis est successoribus nostris quantum in nobis est dilecto nobis Radulpho de Lomley Milit. quod ipse Castrum suum de Lomley de novo aedificandum infra nostram regiam libertatem Dunolm. muro de Petra et Calce batellare et kernellare et Castrum illud sic batel atum et kernellatum tenere possit sibi et heredibus suis imperpetuum sine vec'cone vel impedimento nostri vel successorum nostrorum Justic. Escaetor Vicecomitu aut aliorum Ballivorum seu Ministrorum nostrorum quorumcunque. In cujus rei testimonium has literas nostras fieri fecimus Patentes. Dat. per manus Hugonis de Westwyk Cancellarii nostri x die Novemb. anno Pontificatus nostri secundo.
. In the center are the arms of
Lumley,
as adopted from the
Thwengs,
whose heiress married into this family; on the dexter side the arms of
Percy,
the crest a lion passant; on the sinister side,
Nevill,
with the bull's head for the crest; the lowest arms on the dexter side are those of Cowley, crest a ram's head; on the sinister side the arms of Hilton baron Hilton, and Moses's head for the crest. There are three stories of apartments in this front, with mullioned windows guarded with iron: Between the walls and the brink of the precipice, is just space enough for a terrace, which in early times was guarded with a curtain wall: The dell is very deep, the banks are steep, and now filled with large forest trees: The uniformity of the east front, the arrangement of the arms, and the whole appearance of the masonry, testify that this was part of the original structure, and a chief entrance; for should we form our conjecture from the appearance of the center area, we should conclude every front of the castle was similar to this.
Many accounts and prints have been published of this beautiful place, which strikes the eye of the traveller on the great northern road; the most excellent of the prints was by Hearne and Byrne: We will in the first place select from the various publications such matter as appears most worthy attention, and then proceed with our view. All that Camden says of it is,
that it is enclosed with a park.
In Russell and Owen's England Displayed, it is described to contain
a great number of spacious apartments, some antique and others modern: The paintings are valuable, many of them representing the ancestors of that noble family, for some centuries past, in the habits of the time. The park, besides the pleasantness of the situation, has another and still more valuable circumstance to recommend it, that of being full of veins of coal; this, together with a navigable river, by which the coals are carried down to Sunderland, render Lumley park an inexhaustable mine of treasure to the family.
In one of the monthly magazines we are informed by a paper signed Edward Barras,
that the park is walled round with hewn stone, had formerly deer, but after it was reduced and the pales removed, they sickened and died." And he adds, "there are several dates upon different parts of the castle; one was pointed out to me, on the inner side of one of the eastern turrets, where the letters I. L. 1550 appear, though almost defaced.
Much repair has been given to the inner walls of the area; and on one of the eastern towers are two long strings of escutcheons cut in stone, and placed in the building, nine in each row, with the arms of Lumley in the center at the bottom, and in two small shields at the top, a fleurde-lis on the dexter side, and a rose on the sinister: In those strings the Lumley arms are impaled, with the several families wherewith they intermarried.
There is a tradition at Chester, that about a century ago, the remains of an old chapel stood about three hundred yards to the north-west of the castle, with several vaults and subterraneous passages: A hill called Chapel hill, is well known, but no one about the castle could give any information touching the buildings.
From the platform at the entrance into the hall you command a beautiful prospect. At the foot of the avenue which leads up to the castle, is a fine bason of water, with a salmon lock, and fishermen's cottage; over which, on the opposite rising grounds, you view the town of Chester, the deanry house, and church, at a pleasing distance: The more extended landscape comprehends the great northern road, animated with passengers, the house of
Flalts,
(formerly belonging to the Allans
The following tablet is at this day to be seen in many of the houses at Chester.
On Sunday the 21st day of December, 1741, died at his house at Flatts, THOMAS ALLAN,
esq
He left a son,
Thomas,
who died unmarried, and four daughters, who became coheirs to their brother, viz.
Susannah
married Ra. Jenison,
esq
of Walworth, and died without issue;
Margaret
married Jenison Shasto,
esq
and died without issue;
Dorothy
married Ja. Garland,
esq
of Michael-Stowhall, in Essex (now living);
Camilla
married Robert Shasto,
esq
of Benwell, died the 14th of July, 1782, leaving an only child, a daughter, married to — Adair,
esq
.
; one of the principal coal owners on the river Were. He was a gentleman whose integrity and worth placed him in the highest estimation, and whose good nature and generosity endeared him to all his acquaintance. He was earnest in promoting the good of his country, and particularly that great support of it, its trade; in the cause of which he embarked his fortune, and applied a most laudable industry; manifesting in his affairs an uncommon elegance and propriety; and as his life was adorned with every virtue that dignifies human nature, so his death is universally a most melancholy occasion of sorrow.
) the village of
Pelton,
and other striking objects; and the back scene consists of broken and irregular grounds, every where scattered over with cottages. A cultivated scene fills the view to the left: In a variety of situations you see the winding streams of the Were: On the one hand the town of
Great Lumley,
on the other
Walridge,
and the hermitage, with many hamlets in the vale; whilst the distant landscape is terminated by
Plawsworth,
and the plantations above
Newtonhall.
The hall is a proportionable room, twenty paces in lenth. Here is an arrangement of portraits at full length of the chief personages of the noble family of Lumley, together with a tablet, and in an oval, bordered with arms, the following inscription
Exactly similar to one in the church of Chester.
.
LIVLPHVS Nobilis Generosus
que
Minister Ex Anglosaxonu' Genere Vir clarissimus qui late per Angliam Possessiones multas Haereditario jure possidebat cum te'pore Regis Guilielmi primi Co'quisitoris Angliae Norma'ni ubi
que
saeviret, et Quia Cuthbertu' Dunolmensem Antistitem inter Divos Relatum, multum dilexerat, cum suis ad Dunolmum se co'tulit, Et ibidem Walchero Episcopo adeo devenit charus et acceptabilis, Ut abs
que
illius consilio nihil consulte fieri videretur: Multorum dehinc Odium sibi conflavit, donec a Gilberto quodam aliis
que
sceleratis dicti Episcopi Ministris crudeliter tandem occideretur in cujus necis Vindictam Northumbr. Walcherum Presulem innocentem apud Gateshed trucidarunt anno MLXXX. Ex Aldgitha co'juge Northumbroru' Comitis Aldredi filia Liulphus filium suscepit Uctredum, Patrem Gulielmi de Lumley ejus nominis primi, a cujus loci Dominio sui posteri cognomina sunt sortiti, Gulielmum istum Uctredi filium Dunolmensis Episcopus Hugo eisdem erui immunitatibus volvit, Quibus caeteri sui Barones in Episcopatu gaudebunt, et secundi Henrici Regis cartam inde obtinuit: Tanti beneficii non immemor Gulielmus, villam suam de Dictona in Alvertonschira eodem Episcopo et Successoribus suis liberaliter contulit. A primo Gulielmo Oritur secundus, a secundo tertius qui ex filia Gualteri Daudre Equitis Rogerum filium procreavit, maritum Sibellae cohaeredis inclyti Baronis Hugonis de Morwyco Inde natus Robertus, qui ex Lucia Sorore et Haerede Thomae Baronis de Thwenge, Marmaducum filium genuit, Paternorum armorum desertorem primum, sibi suis
que
retentis maternae stemmatis insignibus. Procreatis ex Margreta Holand conjuge sua, Radulphum Equitem strennum, Quem Rex Richardus secundus anno regiminis octavo ad Baronis Regni dignitatem evexerat: Ducta
que
Aleonora primi Comitis Westmariae sorore Johannem tulit Qui ex Felicia Uxore, Thomam suscepit, cui Margarete conjunx filia Jacobi Harington Equitis, Georgium Enixa est, Maritum Elizabethae haeredis Rogeri Thornton Armiger, inde Pater efficitur illius Thomae. Qui ex magni Regis Edovardi quarti filia naturali, Richardum susceperat. Is annam ducens sororem Gulielmi Baronis Coigners, Johannem reliquit haeredem, sponsum Joannae filiae Henrici Le Scroope de Bolton Baronis eximii, avum Johannis ultimi Baronis de Lumley hoc Conditorio in certam spem suturae resurrectionis repositi: Quem illi Georgius filius, ex Jana Cohaerede Richardi Knightley Equitis, unicum reliquerat Nepote mac haeredem: Bino conjugio saelix ultimus hic Johannes suit, Janae scilicet Arundeliae Comitis Henrici filiae aetate maximae et cohaerede: Necnon et Elizabethae filiae Johannis Baronis Darey, Foeminae non Solum Prosapia et antiquo stemmate Nobiles Sed quod magis laudandum, virtutibus Pudicitia, verecundia, et amore conjugali Nobilissimae. Ex illarum prima nati silii duo, Carolus et Thomas, filia
que
unica Maria, haud din superstites Sed in ipsa infantia mestissimis satis sublati
We may suppose this tablet was shewn to king James, and occasioned the shrewd remark hereafter mentioned, but by the letters we think it has been painted since this time.
.
The pictures are placed in the following order. 1. Liulphus. 2. Uchtred. 3. Gulielmus, who married Hesleden. 4. Sir William de Lumley. 5. William de Lumley, who married Daudre. 6. Sir Robert de Lumley, who married Lucy Thwenge. 7. Sir Marmaduke Lumley, who married Margaret Holland. 8. Sir Ralph de Lumley, the first baron in his parliament robes. 9. Sir John de Lumley, who married Felicia Redman. 10. King Richard II. sitting in a chair of state, lord Lumley in his robes kneeling, above the figure R. R. II. An' D'no 1385, Ao Reg. 8. 11. Sir Thomas Lumley, who married Margaret, daughter of Sir James Harrington: He received knighthood as a reward for his military prowess, and was employed by government in several momentous negociations: In the twenty-eighth, twenty-ninth, and thirty-first years of king Henry VI. was guarrantee for the king of England in the Scotch treaties: In the thirty-third year of that reign was made governor of Scarborough castle for life; a most distinguished trust: Was entrusted in many other appointments of government. It appears he was equally a favourite with king Edward IV. for in the first year of that reign he obtained a reversal of his grandfather's attainder; had summons to parliament for the remainder of his life, and was employed in various confidential matters by his sovereign, particularly in the negociations with king James of Scotland, touching his marriage. 12. George lord Lumley, who married Elizabeth Thornton. 13. Sir Thomas Lumley, who married Elizabeth, natural daughter of king Edward IV. 14. John de Lumley, who married Joan, daughter of Henry lord Scrope. 15. Richard de Lumley, who married Ann, daughter of Sir John Conyers. 16. George Lumley, who married Jane, daughter of Sir Richard Knightley. 17. Elizabeth, daughter of John lord Darcy of Chiche, and second wife of Sir John Lumley, who was restored in blood the first of king Edward VI. and had the ancient barony revived.
The great dining-room is in the south-west tower, elegantly stuccoed, with a vaulted roof; on one side it commands a view of the adjacent meadows, the sloping banks of the river Were, highly cultivated; with a fine canal, formed by a curvature of the stream: at the end windows, a prospect down the avenue, with Chester and the chief objects described from the platform.
The little dining-room has several fine portraits. John lord Lumley, 1563, a three quarter piece; a pleasing picture: There are other two portraits of this personage in the music-room, one dated 1588, the other 1591. This John was the son and heir of George Lumley, who suffered death as before mentioned, and grandson and heir of John lord Lumley. In the sixth year of king Edward VI. he was restored in blood, and that he and the heirs male of his body should hold and bear the name, dignity, state, and pre-eminence of a baron of this realm, &c. On the 29th of September, 1553, he was made one of the knights of the bath, and attended with his lady at the coronation of queen Mary, he among the barons, and she one of the six ladies who sat in the chariot of state, dressed in crimson velvet, &c. He was one of the two lords who introduced the first Russian ambassador to audience: Was in employ in the first years of queen Elizabeth, but being suspected of intrigue in the affairs of the queen of Scots, was taken into custody with his father-in-law, the carl of Arundel, in the twelfth year of that reign, and was a great favourite with the earl, as appears by his will. He afterwards came into great confidence with the queen, and was one of the lords commissioned to sit in trial of the unhappy victim of Elizabeth's jealousies, and with a firmness some historians have spoken of with expressions of surprize, delivered his opinion
that the sentence was justly pronounced against the queen of Scots.
In the forty-fourth year of the queen he was one of the peers who sat on the trial of Robert D'Evereux, earl of Essex. On the accession of king James he experienced many testimonies of royal confidence: Camden made most honourable mention of him:
He was a person of entire virtue, integrity, and innocence; and in his old age a complete pattern of true nobility. He had so great a veneration for the memory of his ancestors, that he caused monuments to be erected for them in the collegiate church of Chester in the Street, in order as they succeeded one another, from Liulphus down to his own time, which he had either picked out of the demolished monasteries or made new.
By his will he devised his estates, particularly the castle and manor of Lumley, to Richard Lumley, eldest son and heir apparent of Roger Lumley,
esq
son of Anthony, brother to John lord Lumley his grandfather. He married Jane, the eldest of the two daughters of Henry Fitz-Allan, earl of Arundel, and by her had three children, who died in infancy; and to his second wife married Elizabeth, daughter of John lord Darcy of Chiche, who survived him, and by whom he had no issue: He died on the 11th of April, 1609, and was buried in the church at Cheam. The ancient barony of Lumley expired at his death.
The portrait of
Garcia Sarmienta Cuna
is next; a full length, in armour, a ruff, red stockings, white shoes, a white cross on his breast, a spear in his hand. Out of a window a view of the sea. He was captain of the guard to Philip II
Pennant, 325.
.
Ferdinand duke of Mar,
1557, in rich armour.
A full length of the
duke of Monmouth,
with a sweet countenance and long hair.
Jane Fitz-Alan,
the first wife of John lord Lumley, in black robes, a small ruff, with gloves in her hand: This is a beautiful portrait; her dress is gracefully ornamented with strings of jewels. She was a lady of uncommon learning, having translated from the Greek into Latin some of the orations of Isocrates, and the Iphigenia of Euripides into English. She compliments her father highly in a dedication to him, prefixed to one of the orations, which begins
Cicero, Pater honoratissime, illustris,
&c. She died before her father, as appears by his will
Vide Ballard's British Ladies, 16.—Pennant, 322.
.
In the music-room:
Thomas Ratcliff, carl of Sussex:
A full length, in white armour, and gold brocade breeches, young and handsome, a staff in his right hand, his left re
ing on a sword: His helmet with an enormous plume placed on a table: This motto
amando & sidendo traopo, son ruinato.
This nobleman was a figuring character in the reigns of Mary and Elizabeth, frequently employed in embassies, in both reigns deputy of Ireland, and in the first an active persecutor of the Protestants: He conformed outwardly to the religion of his new mistress, was appointed by her president of the north, and commanded against and suppressed the rebellion of the earls of Northumberland and Westmoreland, notwithstanding he secretly approved the opinions they armed in favour of. He was the spirited rival of Leicester; but the death of Sussex left the event of their dispute undetermined
Pennant, 324.
.
A fine portrait in a purple robe, inscribed
Duke of Suffolk,
1593. Who this picture represents is uncertain,—the last duke, Henry Grey, was beheaded 1553.
Viglius,
president of the council in the low countries, 1560. A three quarter piece, in a black gown furred in front, a black cap, sitting in a chair: A fine old face.
A fine portrait of one of the
Lumleys;
but what personage is not known.
A three quarter length of a man in a scarlet robe, over the left shoulder a white mantle, a scarlet cap tied in the middle, and open behind, a narrow white ruff, and a collar of the fleece; the scarlet robe is furred with white, on which are several times repeated the words
Ah! amprins au ra jay!
Oh, had I undertaken it!"
Over the chimney, the
duke of Buckingham.
A half length of
Robert earl of Salisbury,
minister in the last years of queen Elizabeth, and first of king James I. dressed in black, a bell on the table, and a letter directed to him by all his titles, round the neck a green ribband, with the George: Above his head
Sero sed serio.
Sir William Peter,
or
Petre,
a native of Devonshire, fellow of All-Souls College, and afterwards secretary of state to four sovereigns, Henry VIII. Edward VI. Mary, and Elizabeth. His prudence in maintaining his post in reigns of such different tempers is evident; but in that of Mary he attended only to politics, of Elizabeth to religion
Dugd. Baron. 11, 388.—Prine's Worthies of Devon. 498.—Pennant, 32
.
.
Queen Mary
and
queen Elizabeth;
of a severe countenance.
Dudley earl of Leicester,
in a three quarter piece, dated 1587, with the collar of the garter, and staff in his right hand.
Andrew Doria,
a three quarter length, the great Genoese admiral and patriot. He is dressed in black, in a cap, a long beard, a collar with the fleece pendant, a truncheon in his hand, and a dagger in his girdle: View of ships through a window.
John lord Lumley,
1588, aet. 54. A full length, in rich armour. Another in his robes, with a glove and handkerchief in one hand, a little black scull-cap and white beard, dated 1591. The latter portrait, Mr Pennant says, he believes was the performance of Richard Stevens, an able statuary, painter, and medalist, mentioned by Mr Walpole
An
ed. Paint. 1, 161.
: He further adds,
This illustrious nobleman restored the monuments that are in the neighbouring church, was a patron of learning and great collector of books, assisted by his brother in law Humphrey Lhuyd, the famous antiquary. The books were afterwards purchased by king James I. and proved the foundation of the royal library. Mr Granger says, they are a very valuable part of the British Museum.
The drawing-room, elegantly furnished with crimson damask. A picture of
king Charles II.
on horseback.
In a dressing-room, over the fire place,
Zebedeus Jacobus Major, Salome,
Christo coevus.
A group of four, a fine picture, supposed by Holbein.
In the lodging-rooms, &c. &c.
John lord Russel;
a fine portrait.
A portrait of a lady, in a singular dress of black and gold, with a red and gold petticoat, dated 1560. Mr Pennant's account of this picture is,
This is called Elizabeth, third wife of Edward earl of Lincoln, the fair
Geraldine,
celebrated so highly by the earl of Surry; but so ill favoured in this picture, that I must give it to his first wife Elizabeth Blount: Geraldine was the young wife of his old age. Her portrait at Woburn represents her an object worthy the pen of the amorous Surry.
Sir John Petre;
a very fine portrait.
Ambrose earl of Warwick,
son of the great Dudley duke of Northumberland: His dress a bonnet, furred cloak, small ruff, and pendant George. This peer followed the fortunes of his father, but was received to mercy, and restored in blood; was created earl of Warwick by queen Elizabeth, and proved a gallant and faithful subject: He died in 1589, and lies under an elegant brass tomb in the chapel at Warwick.
The
earl of Surry;
whom Mr Pennant stiles,
the gallant, accomplished, poetical earl of Surry; in black, with a sword and dagger, the date 1545. The ornament, says Mr Walpole, of a boistrous, yet not unpolished court; a victim to a jealous tyrant and to family discord. The articles alledged against him, and his conviction, are the shame of the times.
King Edward VI.
a full length.
Ralph Lumley,
1567; a small full length portrait.
Sir Thomas More,
a half length, dressed in that plainness of apparel which he used, when the dignity of office was laid aside; in a furred robe, with a coarse capuchin cap. He was the most virtuous and the greatest character of his time; and by a circumstance that might humiliate human nature, fell a victim for a religious adherence to his own opinion, after being a violent persecutor of others for firmness to the dictates of their own conscience: To such inconsistencies are the best of mankind liable
Pennant, 320.
.
William Cecil,
lord high treasurer of England, a half length, in black, collar of the garter.
A good half length of Mr
Thomas Wyndham,
drowned on the coast of Guinea, aged 42, M. D. L. a robust figure in green, with a red sash, and a gun in his hand.
The
earl of Essex
in a full length, dressed in black, covered with white embroidery. Mr Pennant, speaking of this picture, says,
the brave, impetuous, presuming Robert earl of Essex: A romantic nobleman, of parts without discretion, who fell a sacrifice to his own passions, and a vain dependance for safety on those of an aged queen, doting with unreasonable love, and a criminal credulity in the insinuation of his foes.
In a low room,
Sir Nich. Carew,
master of the horse to king Henry VIII. There is great spirit in his countenance; a white feather in his hat, his head bound round with a gold stuff handkerchief. He was beheaded in 1539, as lord Herbert says
Hist. king Henry VIII.
, for being of council with the marquis of Exeter, a favourer of the dreaded cardinal Pole, then in exile. During the time of his confinement in the Tower he imbibed the sentiments of the reformers, and died avowing their faith
Pennant, 324.
.
The last
earl of Arundel,
a three quarter piece: His valour distinguished him in the reign of king Henry VIII. when he ran with his squadron close under the walls of Bulogne, and soon reduced it. In the following reign he opposed the misused powers of the unhappy protector, Somerset, and yet declined connection with the great Northumberland. He supported the just rights of queen Mary; was imprisoned by the former, but on the Revolution was employed to arrest the abject fallen duke: He was closely attached to his royal mistress by principles of religion: In his declining years he aimed at being husband to queen Elizabeth. Had her majesty deigned to put herself under the power of man, she never would have given the preference to age. On his disappointment he went abroad, and on his return first introduced into England the use of coaches
Pennant, 323.
.
The first
earl of Bedford,
engraved among the illustrious heads.
Killigrew,
gentleman of the bedchamber to king Charles II. in a red fash, with his dog: A man of wit and humour, and on that account a great favourite with the king.
A three quarter length, unknown, dated 1596, aged 43, dressed in a striped jacket blue and white, black cloak and breeches, white ruff, gloves on, collar of the garter, and a high crowned hat.
Paracelsus,
thus described by Mr Pennant,
A half length of the famous eccentric physician and chymist of the fifteenth century,
Philip Theophrastus Paracelsus Bombast de Hohenheim;
on the picture is added also the title
Aureolus.
The cures he wrought were so very surprising in that age, that he was supposed to have recourse to supernatural aid; and probably, to give greater authority to his practice, he might insinuate that he joined the arts medical and magical. He is represented as a very handsome man, bald, in a close black gown, with both hands on a great sword, on whose hilt is inscribed the word
Azot.
This was the name of his familiar spirit, that he kept imprisoned in the pummel, to consult on emergent occasions. Butler humourously describes this circumstance:
"Bombastus kept a devil's bird
"Shut in the pummel of his sword,
"That taught him all the cunning pranks
"Of past or future mountebanks
Hudibras, p. ii. c. 3.
."
A head of
Sir Anthony Brown,
a favourite of king Henry VIII. with a bushy beard, bonnet, and order of the garter. He was master of the horse to that prince, and appointed one of the executors of his will; and of the council to his young successor
Pennant, 322.
.
A half length inscribed
Fernandes de Toledo duke of Alva,
in rich armour, with his baton, short black hair and beard: A great officer, and fortunate till his reign of cruelty. He boasted, that he had caused, during his command in the Low Countries,
eighteen thousand people to perish by the executioner.
He visited England in the train of his congenial master Philip II. Mr Pennant speaking of this picture says, he imagines this portrait was painted when the duke was young, for he had seen one sent into England by the late Mr Benjamin Keen, then in the possession of the bishop of Ely, which represented him with a vast flowing white beard
Pennant, 325.
.
Doctor Stukeley, in his Iter Boreale, in 1725, before mentioned, says,
At Lumley castle is a curious old picture of Chaucer, said to be an original.
We could not find any such portrait, neither is it mentioned by Mr Pennant.
There is a wooden equestrian statue of Liulphus in the house, with his battle-ax in his hand. Mr Pennant tells the following story:
When king James I. in one of his progresses was entertained in this castle, William James, bishop of Durham, a relation of the house, in order to give his majesty an idea of the importance of the family, wearied him with a long detail of their ancestry, to a period even beyond belief,
O mon,
says the king,
gang na farther, let me digest the knawledge I ha gained; for, by my saul, I did na ken Adam's name was Lumley
Grant al. Ra. de Nevil, chr. d'nus de Raby del ward'p de Robert fitz de Marmaduke de Lumley, chiv. de
unct. 22d bishop Bury.
A general pardon to Ra. Lumley, and restitution of lands, 1 bishop Fox.
A pardon of intrusion to Richard Lumley, son of Thomas, who was son of George lord Lumley and Elizabeth his wife, sister and heir of Roger Thornton. Bishop Bainbrig.
A recovery against Sir John Lumley, lord Lumley, for the manors of the Isle, Bradbury, Bolam, Sheraton, Seaton Carew, Ludworth, Lumley, Morton, Hesleden and Hawthorn, 15 bishop Tunstall.
Cursitors Rolls.—Rudd's MSS.
.
The foot walk to Lumley castle from Chester, leads through fine meadows, and by the fish lock: They take about six hundred salmon here in a season.
We must not depart from this beautiful place, without remarking, that on failure of issue in John lord Lumley, Dr Lloyd was competitor with Richard earl of Scarborough, for the barony, which was determined in 1723, in favour of the earl.
GREAT LUMLEY has nothing remarkable but the ruins of an old hall. There was a partition of the Lumley estates in the time of king Henry III. to three coheiresses, which might occasion the following circumstances: In the first year of bishop Booth, Margaret, the wife of Christopher Moresby, died seised of a moiety of the wasted manors of East Hall and West Hall, in Great Lumley, consisting of 100 acr. of tillage land, 30 acr. of wood, and 30 acr. of moor, with a moiety of a fishery in the river Were, held of the bishop
in capite,
by half a knight's fee, leaving Ch. Moresby her son and heir, an infant; and we hear no more of that family there from that period, so that it is probable his moiety reverted to the Lumleys. Thomas Lumley's daughter Elizabeth, married William Tyllyoll; and in the fourth year of bishop Dudley, by an inquisition taken on the death of the same William Tyllyoll de Lumley Magna, arm. it appears he died seised of a moiety of Great Lumley, leaving Phillis, the wife of William Musgrave, and Margaret Tyllyoll, his daughters by his wife Elizabeth, coheiresses.
As in our itinerary we pass through the chapelries of Tanfield and Lamesley distinctly, and apart from the mother church, we will first notice those places mentioned in the book of rates, as lying within the separate district of Chester
MSS. Tanner, 185, temp. Car. 1. The information of Richard Grame, giving a strange discovery of a murder, 1631, at Willington mill, committed by Sharpe and Walker, never printed. The fullest account of the fact is to be found in the preface to Dr Glanville's Saducism. Triumphatus.
: The first of which,
HARRATON,
is situate about a mile below Chester, a seat of John Lambton,
esq
on the banks of the river Were, whose border abounds in romantic scenery
Whitehall, August
22, 1660. His majesty was pleased to confer the honour of knighthood on lieutenant-colonel John Jackson, of Harraton, in the county of Durham, as a present mark of his royal favour, for his loyal services and sufferings in the wars.—Parl. Intel. p. 566.
There was an ancient chapel at Harraton, but no evidence relative to it has come to our knowledge.
The Birtley family held 2 mess. and 28 acr. of land in the vill of Morhouse, held of the manor of Herverton, by a pound of pepper, and other lands by a rose. Inq. p. m. Isabellae, ux. Joh. de Birtle, 3o Skirlaw, and Inq. p. m. Joh. de Birtley, 25 Hatfield.
Wm de Chestre also possessed lands in les Morehouses, held of Rob. Darcy. Inq. p. m. 8 bishop Langley.
[For Lumley and Hedworth's pedigrees,—see the adjoining leaf]
. This was anciently the seat and estate of the D'Arcys, who conveyed to the Hedworths, and they remained possessors till the year 1688, when John Hedworth,
esq
the last heir male of that family died, and left two daughters Dorothy and Elizabeth his coheiresses: Dorothy, the elder, married Ralph Lambton,
esq
a younger son of the Lambton family of Lambton hall, and Elizabeth married Sir William Williamson, of Monkwearmouth, baronet. In 1714, William Lambton,
esq
purchased lady Williamson's moiety. In the same year a family settlement was made by Ralph Lambton and his wife, with divers limitations and remainders, by virtue of which the estate has hitherto passed in the family.
URPETH,
by the Boldon Book, appears to have had dringage tenure, wherein, among other duties, we find that of feeding dog and horse, and finding fifteen cords, and two greyhounds for the great chace, carrying a tun of wine, the millstones for Durham mill, attending the court, going on embassies, and making repairs at Chester mill
Urpath.
Urpath reddit lxs. pro firma per iiij term. & arat & herciat viij acras apud Cestre, & facit iij porcationes in autumno
Porea.
Terra porrecta sive projecta, quod ea seges frumentum p
r
icit.
Varr. R. R.
1. 29. Quae est inter duos sulcos, elata terra, dicitur porea.
Varro de Lingua Latina & Re Rustica.
In some expositions it is said to consist of a measure of land, containing 130 feet in length and 30 in breadth.
Drengus pascit canem & equum, & vadit in magna caza cum ij leporarijs & xv cordis, & quadrigat tonellum unum vini & molam molendini apud Dunolm. & sequitur placita, & vadit in legationibus, & reparat medictatem stagni & molendini & domus ejusdem de Cestr. cum hominibus de Cestria.—
Boldon Buke.
Urpath.
Thomas Grey de Heton tenet dom. de Urpath cum molend'o aquat. & j assart. ibid. per servic. forin. redd. viij•• .—reddit pro operibus xx bond. tenentibus terr. domini de Cestr. ad fest. S. Martini xxs. & carriabit quolibet anno j ton. vini, & debet sect. ad com. Dunolm.
Will's Talbot tenet xvij acr. terrae sca
carij quond'm Batini del Ridding, red. jxs. xid.
Isabella de Britley tenet cum capellanis
Cantariae de Brigford
& Roberto de Kellowd de Lomley
villam de
per servic. forin. & redd. per ann. ad se
ce. Dunelm. xiijs. iiijd.
Will's de Elmden tenet
villam de Pellowe,
per servic. forin. red. per ann. xiijs. iiijd.
Rob
rtus de Scoula
d tenet v acr. terrae apud Pelton, per servic. ut supra, red. ij s. viij d.
Johannes de Karrowe & haeredes Alex de Kibleworth tenet j mes. & xxvi acr. terrae quond'm Gilberti
juxta Shedne
lawe per cart. & servic. forin. redd. per ann. x s.
Will. de Stele cepit ad opus husbandor. de Urpath xj acr. iij rod. & dimid. terrae vocat. Wodyngdon quoad. Ricardi de Ulleston & sol
b't reddere per ann. viij s. iiij d. modo vs.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Newfeld.
Ricardus de Urpath tenet. mult. par. terrae juxta Pelton 2l. 7s. 6d.—
Ibid.
Inq. p. m. Tho. Grey, 25 bishop Hatfield, cor. W. de Menevylle, vic.
unamquam
que
porcationem cum xxiiij hominibus; & quartam porcationem cum xij hominibus.
. The first person noted in the records as possessing this manor, is Thomas de Urpeth, who held the same of the lord bishop
in capite,
except five lands of husbandry, and an assart there called the Rydding, which Alexander de Kibblesworth, who married his daughter Idoma, then had; Thomas doing homage and fealty, and rendering sixty shillings yearly at the bishop's exchequer, plowing and harrowing eight acres of the lord's land at Chester, having provisions found by the bishop during such work, preparing three balks of land for seed corn in Autumn, with twenty-four men each, and one with twelve, the bishop providing them, for every three men, a loaf of bread, of the assize of eight to the bushel, a flaggon of beer, and a portion of cheese of half a stone weight; besides the dringage service as stipulated in the Boldon Book
Inq. p. m. an. 20 Hatfield, in plena co. Dun. in cathedra.
. In bishop Hatfield's Survey it appears, that Thomas Grey of Heton, then held the manor, and he died seised thereof in the twenty-fifth year of that prelate: It was part of the forfeiture on the attainder of Thomas Grey, and in the eighteenth year of the episcopacy of bishop Nevill, he granted the same to Ralph Grey his nephew. In the seventeenth year of bishop Booth, John Park died seised of this manor, together with the Rydding. By this inquisition it appears, that the manor was held
per forinsecum serv.
paying also twenty shillings rent by the hands of the coroner of Chester ward, carrying a tun of wine, and doing suit at the county. We find John Hedworth,
esq
in the time of bishop Sever, obtained licence to alien his lands in Urpeth
Cursito
s Rolls.—
Rudd's MSS.
.
The first owners we find of PELTON were John de Hadham, and Hugh Burdon, which latter, in the time of bishop Beaumont, held a moiety of the vill of Pelton, of the before mentioned Hugh, by homage and the sixth part of a knight's fee: It afterwards was the estate of the Redhoughs, and was aliened to Robert Whelpington, and became at length the estate of Ralph earl of Westmoreland, of which he died seised in the twentieth year of bishop Langley, and was part of the estates forfeited on the attainder. William Chancellor had some lands here, as appears by a pardon for purchasing without licence, dated 15 July, 1529.
The manor of BIRTLEY, in the seventeenth year of bishop Hatfield, was held of the bishop by Will. de Birtley, who also held the manor of Tribley at twenty shillings rent, and attending the great chace with two greyhounds
Birtleia & Tribleia.
Birtleia & Tribleia reddunt xxs. & vadunt in magna caza cum ii leporariis.—
Boldon Buke.
Vide Kyblesworth, Hatfield's Survey.
Inq. p. m. W. de Birteley, cor. W. de Claxton, esc.
. The Birtleys held a moiety of the manor of Birtley for several generations. It became the estate of the Nevills, who held the vill for some time jointly with Gilbert Elgyne, who married Elizabeth, one of the heiresses of William de Birtley, and was part of the forfeitures on the attainder: Tribley manor became the estate of the Lambtons, in the time of bishop Langley
Inq. p. m. Will. Lambton, 28 bishop Langley. Q'q p'de'us W. L. ten. d. quo ob. in d'nico suo ut de f'o con'm cum Rob'to L. juniore & Rog'o de Bothe, &c. Man' de Tribley cum p'tin in co p'd'co ex dono & seoff'o Joh'is Arowesmith, &c. &c. p' c'tam suam eisd. jur. in evid. ost. cujus dat. est apud Tribley deci'o die Febr. an reg. Henr. sexti p't conq. Anglie sexto, &c.
PEDIGREE OF BIRTLEY OF BIRTLEY.
Penson's Collection, Harleian MSS. No.
1052.
William de Birtley, lord of the manor of Birtley, 30 king Henry VI.
Robert Hall of Birtley
Ralph Hall of Beamish and Birtley
—Nevill
John Hall of Birtley
Agnes d. of J. Twynburn of Lynsford.
Elizabeth m. T. Hutchinson of Moorside
Agnes m. Leo. Elmerard, of Evenwood
Robert
John of Byrtley 1575
Isabella d. & h. of Wm Ward of Cawside
Ralph
Christopher
John heir to Cawside and Birtley, 1615.
Jane d. of Chr. Maire of Hedworth
John eldest son an idiot
Thomas aet. 13, 1615
Michael
Isabell
Elizabeth
Eleanor
Robert
Dorothy
Mathew
Jane
Isabella
Wm Stubbs was seised of the manor of Cawside, 8th k. Hen. IV.
Alice
Isabel, m. Blackburn.
— daugh. & heir.
John Warde.
John Ward
Margaret d. & h. of Sim. Walkerley of Walkerley, 9 k. Hen. VII.
Wm Ward of Cawside
Elizabeth d. of Swinburn of Englingham
Isabella d. & h. of Wm Ward of Cawside
Marg. ob. s. p.
So far Harleian MSS.
.
EDMUNDSLEY
Edmunsley.
Edmunsley reddit xxijd.—
Boldon Buke.
Edmunsley.
Sacrista Dunolm. tenet iiij acr. quond'm Johannis Maidstone vocat. Holleys & red. vjs. viijd.
Johan's Killinghall tenet maner. de Edmansle contin. c acr. terrae & redd. xs.—Not. De praedicto Sacrista pro xx acr. terrae de vasto d'ni apud Sacristonhough de novo appruat. per cartam d'ni Thomae episcopi dat. vo die Aug. A. D. 1435, ad terminum xxiiij annorum, reddendo per annum iiijs.
Terrae Scaccarii.
D'nus de Nevill tenet xxviij acr. terrae & dim. rod. quond'm Johannis Edmansle prout contin. in antiqu. rentali in vij parcell. & redd. per ann. xxijs.
Idem Johannis Edmansle tenet iiij acr. terrae juxta Conkesburn vocat. Edmundleclogh red. ijs.—j mes. & xxxvj acr. per cartam quond'm Godrici de Newson vocat. Whitlay xijd. parcell. de vasto appruat. red. per ann. iijs.—
Hatfield's Survey.
gave name to a resident family, and in the sixteenth year of bishop Hatfield, William de Edmansley died seised of the vill, which he held
in capite
by homage, fealty, and ten shillings rent at the bishop's exchequer: By the same bishop's survey, it appears that John Killinghall held the manor. In the thirty-fifth year of the same prelate, we find Rob. de Umframvill,
esq
died seised of this manor, rendering
d
ar. orar.
Ora
was a Saxon coin, about the value of sixpence, reserved in payment in many old deeds.
Inq p. m. 15 bishop Langley, cor. R. de Eure, esc. Man. de Edmansley, cu. p't. q'd ten. de d
o ep. in soc. redd'o si. & succ. suis ij oras p' an. ut patet p' cartam d'ni Hugon. nup' epi Dun. ostens. p' o'mi al. s'o.
for the same; also forty acres of land there, called the Marle-park, of nineteen shillings and three pence rent. In the first year of bishop Skirlaw, on an inquisition taken on the death of John de Nevill, it was returned that he died seised of this manor, and Ralph earl of Westmoreland aliened the same to John Hoton, some time before the sixth year of bishop Langley, the manor being then estimated at one hundred shillings yearly value.
WALRIDGE was the possession of the Lumleys in distant antiquity. We find a pardon granted for aliening this place without licence, together with divers other estates, by Sir John Lumley, lord Lumley, and Catharine his wife, by fine to George Smith and Thomas Kimraston, dated the 1st of August, 1607
Rudd's MSS.
Walrig.
Johannes Melote & Will's Lawson tenent ibid. iij acr. terrae & dimid. quond'm Ric. Walrig. ijs. jd.— Will's Osburne tenet vij acr. & dim. terrae & x pertic. quond'm Ricardi Osburne red. vs. ijd.
Decanus Cestr. tenet j acr. & dimid rod. terrae quond'm Rogeri Gilling & red. xijd.
Tenentes villae Cestr. tenent tertiam part. j rod. & redd. per ann. iiijd.—tenent inter se dimid. acr. terrae quond'm Roberti Clerici & redd. vjd.—
Hatfield's Survey.
.
PLAWSWORTH.
Various proprietors held lands in Plawsworth from distant time: In the eleventh year of bishop Bury, Richard de Kelawe was one, and he also had twenty-pence rent out of the land of Alan de Plawsworth: The possessions of this family came to the Forcers of Harberhouse, by marriage of Johan, the heiress general of the Kelawes, of which John had livery in the first year of bishop Sever
Plausword.
Plausword quam Simon Vitulus tenet xxs. & quadrigat vinum cum viij bobus, & vadit in magna caza cum leporarijs.—
Boldon Buke.
Liberi tenentes.
Thomas de Boynton tenet de jure uxoris suae cum aliis villam de Plawsworth per cartam & forin. servic. & redd. per ann. ad quatuor terminos usuales xxs.—Et quadrig. vinum cum viij bobus, & vadunt in magn. chas. cum ij leporariis.
Terrae Scaccarii.
Johannes Aleynson & ix alij tenentes tenent vj mes. j tost & divers. parcell. acrar. terrae, & xj parcell terrae vast. & reddit. non solut.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Inq. p. m R. de Kelawe, 11 bishop Bury, cor. Will. de Mordon, esc.—
Cursitors Rolls, Rudd's MSS.
. In the fifth year of bishop Hatfield, William the son of Alan before named, and John his brother, a bastard, died seised of lands here without heirs, valued at one mark above reprisals
Inq. p. m. apud Dun. cor. Will. de Mordon, vic.
. In the eighth year of the same prelate, John de Wylughby, chiv. died seised of lands here held by fealty, and two shillings and four-pence rent. In the survey it is set forth, that Thomas de Boynton, in right of his wife and others, held the vill of Plawsworth, rendering twenty shillings rent, which, by the Boldon Book it appears, Simon Vitulus paid for the same. One John de Elvet held lands here in the second year of bishop Fordham
Inq. p. m. 2 bishop Fordham, cor. R. de Laton, mil. esc.
, rendering five shillings and four-pence rent, and four hens at the office of the master of the forests at the feast of St Martin. The families of Hotons and Claxtons had property here. By an inquisition taken on the death of Margaret, the wife of the above-named Thomas Boynton, in the third year of bishop Langley, it appears that she had an estate in Plawsworth by the feoffment of John, son of Robert Conyers of Ornysby, knight, for her life, with certain limitations in favour of Robert Conyers and Alice his wife, who were then dead, with remainder to William the son of Jordan de Dalden,
esq
and his heirs male, with remainder to Robert his brother, and remainder to John the son of Edmund Killingwyck, with various other remainders; and by virtue of the remainders over, the estate came to Johan the wife of Tho. de Brounsield, knight, who was the daughter and heiress of the before-named Robert Conyers. On the death of Margaret, it was found that William Bowes,
esq
was her heir: He died seised of Plawsworth in the first year of bishop Booth
Inq. p. m. W. Bowes, mil. 1 bishop Booth, cor. G. Midilton, arm. esc.
; and in various succeeding inquisitions it appears as part of the possessions of that family.
LAMBTON was the family seat of the Lambtons before the conquest: It stands on the southern banks of the Were, opposite to Harraton, in a sine cultivated country: The house was taken down by the late William Lambton,
esq
in order to erect one on a very elegant plan, but he died before any considerable part was proceeded in
There is an expressive portrait of him here, by Sir Josh. Reynolds; the hands have totally lost their colour.
. As there has been no interruption in the possession for so many ages, little historical matter rises on the subject
Bury,
37o
Pont.
Pardon p' alienacon. p' Willielmum de Lambton de manerio de Lambton & licentia concedendi d'c'm manerium ad usum d'ci Will'i & Aliciae ux. ejus p' vita. Rem. Rob'to filio suo in feodo talliat.—R. Will'o al. filio in feodo talliat.—R. Thomae al. filio in feodo talliat.—R. Joh'i al. filio in feodo talliat.—R. Rad'o al. filio in feodo talliat.—R. haeredib's d'ci Will'i p'ris.—
Cursitors Rol's.—Rudd's MSS.
Thomas Lambton son and heir of William Lambton, livery 9 bishop Fox.
John Lambton son and heir of Thomas Lambton, livery 4 cardinal Wolsey.
William Lambton brother and heir of Sir Marmaduke, livery 8 bishop Tunstall.
Ralph Lambton son and heir of Robert, livery 7 bishop Barnes.
Margaret wife of William Lambton, daughter and heiress of John Barnes, livery 1 bishop James.—
Ibid.
Sciant p'sentes & futuri q'd ego Willielm. fil. Rob'ti de Lambton, d'nus ejusd. ville remisi relaxavi & omnino de me et hered. meis in perpetuum quietum clamavi Thome f. Gilb'ti de Lambeton totum jus & clameum q'd habui habeo vel aliquo modo habere pot'o in sanguine ejusd. Tho. causa nativitat. aut ejus sequelis legitime procreatis ita q'd nee ego predictus Will. nec hered. mei nec aliquis al. no'ie n'ro aliquid jus vel clameum in predicto Tho. aut in liberis suis legitime procreatis bonis aut catallis exigere vel vendicare quoq'o modo pot'imus in futuris sed ab omni acc'oe juris simul exclusi imperp'm per presentes sigillo meo sigillatas.
Test. &c. Datum apud Lambton die dominica in vigil. S. Jacobi ap'li Ao D'ni 1373.
Rot. B. Hatfield, sch.
9.
No
5.
in dorso.
. At the farm house leading to Lambton, are the remains of a chapel, the stone work of the eastern window yet perfect; and in the front of the house, in a circle, is the figure of a man to the waist in relief, with elevated hands,—the inscription defaced.
The several places named in the settlement of the prebends, not before spoken of, are as follow:
POKERLEY was the estate of the Monbouchers; and on the death of Bertram, in the first year of bishop Skirlaw, was described by the name of the lordship Pokerly, with divers
lands and tenements there, with their free tenants held of the heirs of the lord of Urpeth, rendering a clove-gilly-flower at the feast of St Cuthbert, in September
Inq. p. m. Bertram Monboucher, 1 bishop Skirlaw, cor. W. de Bowes, esc.
Pokerleia.
Pokerleia reddit ij s.—
Boldon Buke.
Vide Kyblesworth, Hatfield's Survey, Bertram, Monboucher, Terrae scaccarij.
.
PELAWE gave name to a resident family, and in the time of bishop Bury, one John de Birteley held lands there of Richard de Pelawe
in capite,
by twelve-pence rent and suit of court, and a quarter of beans yearly to the rector of Boldon for the time being
Unum quart'ium fabarum.
. The above named Richard held the vill of Pelawe in right of Agnes his wife,
in capite,
by fealty, rendering three shillings and four-pence rent. They had issue one daughter, Juliana. The Birtleys fell into female issue, and two coheiresses, one of whom married Kellawe, and the other Egleyne. By bishop Hatfield's Survey
Vide Urpeth.
, it appears Pelawe was then the estate of William de Elmeden, who died seised thereof in fee-tail, in the twelfth year of bishop Skirlaw, by virtue of a deed of feoffment. He held by the tenth part of a knight's fee, rendering thirteen shillings and four-pence at the bishop's exchequer yearly
Joh'es fil. Rob. de Pelawe ven. in canc. Dun 7o d. Apr. & cognovit scriptum subsequens esse factum saum, &c.—
Rot. B. Hatfield, sch.
8.
No
7.
in dorso.
Omnibus, &c. Joh'es fil. Rob'ti de Pelawe s. in d'no. Noveritis me concessisse, &c. Will'o de Elmedon seniori & Johanne u
'i ejus & Tho. de Elmedon he'dib's & assign. suis totum jus & clameum▪ &c. in manerio de Pelawe cum serviciis liberor. tenentium & advocac'oe capelle S'ci Stephani infra p'dem manerium, &c. Et ego & he'des mei, &c. warrantizabimus, &c. Dat. in canc. viid. Apr. 1381.
P'd
'm man'ium de Pelawe tenetur de d'no E. in capite p' servic. militare & non in so
. ut apparet p' pl'itum sup' unum scire
ac. sc. sup' petic'oe Hen. de Pelawe quondam d'ni de Pelawe monstrat. Lodovico dudum Dun. epo. a'o p. sui primo sup' collac'oe hospitalis de Pelawe, &c. Et id. Will's dicebat tam p' d'no epo. quam se ipso q'd advoca'co ejusd. hospitalis ad p'd'm d'n'm ep'um pertinet, &c.—
Rot. Rowthall.
Rob'tus dei gra &c. Noverit, &c. q'd nos tradidimus, &c. Will'o fil. & h'di Will'i Elmedon mil. manerium n'rum de Pelawe cum suis pertin. una cum advoc. capelle sive hosp. S'cti Stephani ibid. q'd quidem man'ium nup' h'uimus inter alia ex dono & feoff'o Will'i Bowes, &c. he'nd. & tened. man'ium & advocaco'em p'd'cam cum suis p'tin. p'fato Will'o sil. Will'i Elmeden & he'dib's de corp'e suo, de nob. & suc. n'ri
epis. Dun. p' s'vic vice'siae p'tis feodi unius milit. &c.—
Rot. M. Nevill,
6.
p' breve de pr. sigillo.
.
There was an hospital and chapel here, dedicated to St Stephen, of which we have little proof, save the records before noted, no remains now appearing. The name of Elmeden expired in female issue; Elizabeth, the daughter and heiress of William Elmeden,
esq
married William Bulmer, and carried into that family the large possessions of her ancestors
Cursitors Rolls, temp. bishop Rowthall.—
Rudd's MSS.
; part of which Sir Bertram Bulmer and Dionisia his wife, by virtue of a licence, dated the 3d of August, in the eleventh year of bishop Matthew, conveyed to Sir William Gascoin and Sir Nich. Tempest
Ibid. temp. bishop Mathews.
Chapel or hospital of St Stephen.—Masters.
Will. de Littel prest, col. by R. de Stichehill, 1260.
Rich. de Fair prest, col. by R. de Insula, 1274.
Hugh de Drisseld, col. by Rich. de Kellawe, 1311.
Will. Marckam, cap. col. by L. de Beaumont, 1st of his pont.
Will. Lamb, cap. oc. Oct. 4, 1450.
Randal's MSS.
.
PYKTREE, by bishop Hatfield's Survey, is set forth as the possession of Robert de Kellowe de Lomley
Vide Urpeth.
: The family of Birtley had possessions there in the same prelate's time, which they continued to hold for several succeeding generations. William Peyghan had lands here of the grant of Ralph de Lumley, for life, reverting to the right heirs of the Lumley family: He died in bishop Langley's time. A third part of the vill of Pyktree, in the last named prelate's pontificate, with various parcels of land there, were possessed by the Lambtons, and descended with the rest of their extensive estates.
Of STEVESLEY there is nothing memorable.
The manor of NETTLEWORTH
PEDIGREE OF THE FAMILY OF HAGTHORPS OF NETTLEWORTH.
John Hagthorpe de Nettleworth, younger son of Hagthorpe of Holdernesse
John
William
Ann d. of Claxton of Old Park
John
Elizabeth d. of John Lewen of Newcastle
Robert
Margaret d. of Menvill of Sledwish
Jeronimus ob. s. p.
John
Isabell d. of John Vavasour of Weston
Eliz. wife of Rob. Smith
Grace
Ann
Thomas
Robert a priest
Rowland
George
Philip
Dorothy
Margery
Margaret
Rowland, ob. s. p.
Penson's Collections, Harl. MSS.
1052.
belonged to the family of Gategangs, who in the time of bishop Hatfield, held the same by homage, fealty, and payment of twenty-six shillings and eight-pence rent at the bishop's exchequer; it afterwards, in the time of bishop Langley, became the estate of John de Hagthorpe, who settled it on Cath. de Wessington and John her son, and the heirs of his body.
WHITEHILL manor was possessed by persons who took the local name; and in bishop Hatfield's Survey, is noted to be the property of John Mylote, formerly of Roger of the Hall
A. D. 1343. De fidelitate capta Joh'is Othehall. Rot. Bury, sch. xix.
R. &c. quod Rogerus Othehall tenuit, &c. un. mes. q'd vocatur Whytehall sexaginta & septem acr. t're, &c. q'dq. Joh'es Othehall fil. p'd
i Rogeri est her. ejus, &c. cepimus sidelitat. ipsius Joh'is de mes. &c. & vob. mandamus q'd eid. Joh. de mes. &c. que occ'oe m'tis p'd'ci Rog'i p'ris sui cepistis in manum n'ram, plenam s. he're fac. &c. &c.—
Randal's MSS.
PEDIGREE OF THE FAMILY OF MILLOTS OF WHITEHILL.
Robert Millot
Raphe
Elianor eldest d. of Sir John Hedworth of Harverton, knight.
Robert
Jane d. & coheiress of John Pickering of Westmerland,
esq
Raphe
Isabell d. & heiress of Rob. Evers,
esq
Robert
Grace d. of John Wycliffe,
esq
Eliz. m. Henry Wycliffe of Wycliffe.
Ann m. T. Prunchern
Thomas living 1615, did hom. 26 Oct. 1581.
Jane d. of James Rookby of Morton
Raphe
Ann d. of Thomas Tempest,
esq
of Stella
Robert
Dorothea d. of Wm Wray of Beamish,
esq
Eliz. 6 years old, 1615
Mary
Margaret
Jane
Frances m. Tho. Fenwick
Robert
John
Grace m. Hen. Strangwic
Dorothea m. W. Stockdale
Jane
Johanna m. Rob. Wycliffe
Grace ob. infans
Katherine
Raphe
By Mr
Ra. Hodgson's
book of notes, the pedigree of
Millots
is carried further back, and begins with
Thomas,
who had issue
John,
who married the daughter of
Robert Chauncellor,
esq
who had issue
Robert,
who married the daughter of Sir
Gilb. Hansard,
knight, of Walworth, who had issue
Ralph,
who married
Mary
the daughter of
John Seeton,
esq
and they had issue
Robert, Jane,
and
Margaret; Jane
married
Thomas Payne,
merchant, and
Margaret John Trewsdale,
gent.
Robert
married the daughter of
John Ch
er,
lord of Houghton-le-Spring, and is the
Robert
first above mentioned.
. There was an uninterrupted possession in the Millots, till their heiress about forty years ago married: In the old inquisition it is thus described,
In q'o quid. m'io sunt aula una, una cam'a, una coquina, unum orreum, unum stabulum, una ustarin, lxvij acr. t're, & tres clausur. contin. xliiij acr. t're arab. & vj acr. p'ati, &c.
The manor of TWISILS was the estate of the Birtleys at the time of taking bishop Hatfield's Survey, and afterwards came to the possession of the Lumleys
Twysill.
Thomas de Birtley tenet. maner. de Twyfill & viij acr. terrae & j rod, in iij parcell. redd. iij s. ij d.
Hatfield's Survey.
.
We find nothing memorable of OUSTON alias ULSTAN and HARDEN.
The chapel of LAMESLEY has been rebuilt of late years: It was one of the chapels of ease to Chester, till bishop Bek made this and Tanfield prebendal, in which state they continued till the dissolution
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population in
Lamesley,
from 1762 to 1781 inclusive
1541
344
1147
Burials in the last year 43.—Computed number of inhabitants 1290.
Tanfield,
from 1762 to 1781
1822
403
1336
Burials in the last year 77.—Computed number of inhabitants 2310.
Lamesley chapelry.
—Col. Chester prop.—Hen. lord Ravensworth patron.—In the deanry of Chester, not in charge or certified
CURATES.
Thomas Lang, 1409
Joh. James, 1464
Sir Will. Johnson, 1565
George Eglesfield, 1567
Thomas Martin, 1572
Edw. Erington, 1587
John Blaxton, 1590
Tho. Hope, 1606.
Ambrose Lowther, 1611
Jerem. Williams, 1619
John Buckley, A. M. 1636
—Wilson, ejected 1660
Jac. Harrop, 1677
John Aird, 1700
John Balguy, A. M. 1711
Rob. Wison, cl. 1729, p. resig. Balguy
John Wibbersley, A. M. 1751, p. m. Wilson
Caleb Dixon, 1782, p. m. Wibbersley
Randal's MSS.
Lamesley chapelry.—Book of rates 15l. 17s. 2d—Value of lands 2140l. 13s. 4d.
The bishop of Durham's collieries at Blackburn demised to Sir Ja. Clavering and Tho. Liddell,
esq
and their heirs, Oct. 1691, for three lives, rent 40l.—
Grey's MSS.
Land tax at 4s.
 
County rates at 6s. 8d.
Lamesley
80
0
0
2
12
6½
Revensworth
17
9
7
0
16
7½
Kibblesworth
31
9
4
1
10
0
Hedley
7
0
0
0
6
4
Mann's MSS.
. In this chapelry are Ravensworth town and Ravensworth castle.
THE PEDIGREE OF LIDDEL OF RAVENSWORTH, IN THE COUNTY OF DURHAM. (VOL. II. PAGE 417.) The account of this family is very imperfect, and does not go back much above 200 years, though mention is made, that the family were anciently Lords of Liddel Castle, and Barony of Buft.—They have been proprietors of considerable coal-works from the time of their settling in this county.
The first ancestor we find mentioned, is Thomas de Liddel, who married
Margaret, d. John de Layburne.
Thomas Liddel,
Barbara. d. and coh. of Rich. Strangwayes.
Francis,
Anne, d. Wm. de Seagrave.
Bartram, ob. s. p.
Barbara, d. Th. Cramlington.
Thomas Liddel, purchased the manors of Ravensworth, Lamesley, and Righton, of Sir Wm. Gascoigne, in 1607, d. in 1619.
Margaret, d. John Watson,
Esq
Tho. Liddel.
Esq
defended the town of Newc. against the Scots, and was created a bart. 2d Nov. 1642. Paid 4000l. to the sequestrators for his estates.
Isabel, d. Henry Anderson,
Esq
(by a D. and C. of .... Morland.)
Sir Tho. Liddel, Knt. ob. vita patris, 1627.
Bridget, d. Ed. Woodward, of Lee, near Windsor.
Sir Thomas Liddel, 2d bart. died in 1697.
Anne, d. of Sir Hen. Vane of Raby castle, in co. Durham.
Sir Hen. Liddel, 3d bart, died 1st Sept. 1723.
Catharine, d. and h. of Sir John Bright, of Badsworth, in co. York, Bart.
Thomas Liddel, m. at Lanchester, 12th Oct. 1707. Ob. vita patris, 1715.
Jane. d. Jas. Clavering, of Greencroft.
Esq
died 7th Sept. 1774, aet. 95.
Sir Henry Liddle, 4th baronet, member for Morpeth, mar. in April, 1735.—Created Baron Ravensworth, in co. Durham 29th June, 1747.—Died 30th Jan. 1784, when the barony became extinct, but the baronetage descended to his nephew.
Anne, only d. of Sir Peter Delme, Knt. Alderman and Lord Mayor of London.
Anne, only child, mar. 29th Jan. 1756, to the Duke of Grafton, and after mar. in 1769, to the Earl of Upper Ossory.
James, Thom. both d. young.
Thomas Liddel,
Esq
seated at Newton hall, near Durh. was a posthumous son.—Mar. Sept. 1745, died 6th March, 1772.
Margaret (posthumous) d. of Sir Wm. Bowes. Knt. and sist. to Geo. Bowes,
Esq
late of Gibside.
A son who died an infant.
Henry-George Liddel, 5th bart. born 25th Nov. 1749.—Married April 1773.
....... d. of ...... Steele,
Esq
Henry, 6th baronet.
Several younger children.
Catharine died aet. 12.
John Liddel, adopted heir to his grandfath. Sir Joh. Bright, assumed that name, and possessed Badsworth.— Died 6th Oct. 1737.
Cordelia, d. of ... Clutterbuck of Hides, in co. Essex.
Thomas Liddel,
Margaret Norton, neice and heiress to John Lowther of Ackworth, co. York.
Mary, mar. to Charles, 2d Marquis of Rockingham.
Stephen, John & Henry, all died s. p.
Anne, Catha.
Cordelia, mar Dr. Wintringham.
Henry died without iss.
Anne, d. John Clavering of Chopwell, in co. Durham.
George was member for Berwick, & unmar. died unm. 9th Oct. 174
Michael died unmar.
Eliz. mar. Rob. Ellison, of Hebburn in co. Durh.
Esq
Thomas died unm.
Edward died young.
Robert, ob. 1718.
Priscilla, d. Wm. Kiffin of Lond. merchant ob. 1669.
Thomas,
Mary, d. of ..... Nelthorpe.
Henry, ob. Aug. 1770.
A daughter, mar. John Middleton, of Chirk Castle, in c. Denbeigh,
Esq
George died unm.
Frances mar. Tho. Vane, of Raby cast.
Esq
and 2dly, to Sir John Bright, Bart.
Eliz. m. Christ. Stockdale, of Bilton Park, in co. York.
Isabel died unmar.
Fran. knighted vita patris.
Eliz. d. Sir Geo. Tonge of Denton.
Francis Liddel.
Will.
Robt.
Geo.
...... ......
Henry died unmarried.
Eliz. mar. Geo. Baker,
Esq
C. at Law, and afterwards knighted.
Mary mar. Nich. Cole,
Esq
of Brancepeth, after created a baronet.
Isabel mar. ..... Anderson.
Elizabeth, mar. Wm. Sherwood, of Middlesex.
Alice mar. Gawen Salkeld
Eleanor mar. Tim. Draper, of Newc. merchant.
Jane, d. Hen. Mitford,
Esq
Henry,
Elizabeth, d. Wm. Jenison
Esq
Roger,
Grace, d. Jas. Clavering,
Esq
Barbara, mar. Sam. Sanderson of Hedleyhope
Esq
Jane, married Robt. Anderson.
Robert, both died s. p.
Percival,
Alice, mar. Oswald Carr,
Esq
Barbara died an infant.
George Liddel,
Eleanor, d. John Burne.
George Liddel, ob. s. p.
...... d. Robt. Barker,
Esq
ARMS:—
Argent,
frettee,
Gules,
on a Chief of the
Second,
three leopards faces,
Or.
CREST:—On a wreath, a Lion rampant,
Sable,
crowned,
Or.
THE PEDIGREES OF THE FAMILIES OF CONIERS. (VOL. III. PAGE 148.)
Sir Christ. Conyers, of Sockburn, Knt.
Marian, d. Sir Will. Eure, Knt.
Sir Will. Knt.
Anne, d of Sir Ralph Bigod, of Settrington, Knt.
Sir Christopher,
Anne, d. of .... Markenfield.
Sir Thomas.
Sir George.
Sir John.
Sir John of Sockborn, Knt. living, 1615.
George, son and h. Aet. 6, 1615.
Cuthbert, 2d fil.
Mary, d. of Tho. Laton, of Saxhoc.
John ..... of Layton,
Jane, d. of John Oglethorpe, and wid. of ...... Danby.
Ralph, of Layton,
Mary, d. of Sim. Mawe of
andesham, Stafford.
Cuthbert, son and h. Aet. 4, 1615.
Mary.
Anne.
Johannes Conyers, mil.
Margaretta, fil. et una her. Duo Darcy.
Johannes dus. Conyers, de Horneby.
Alicia, fil. et her. Will Nevill, dus. Falconbridge, com Cantij.
Richardus,
Eliza, fil. et her. Rob. Claxton, mil. de Horden.
Ricardus de Horden.
Christopherus de Horden,
Eliza, fil. Johis Jackson, de Bedale.
Ricardus de Horden
Eliza, fil. Rogeri Lumley.
Christophorus▪ vixit, 1575
Eliza, fil. Cuth. Convers de Layto
ob s. p.
Anna, fil. Johis Hedworth de Harverton.
Johannes de Horden,
Francisca, fil. Thomae Garnes, de Ebor.
Anna.
Isabella, ux. Ca. Hall. Durh. FLOWER'S VISIT. &c.
Maria.
Georgius.
CONIERS. ....... Coniers.
Sir John of Sockburn.
Robert.
John of Horneby,
Eliz. d. and coh. of Billeston.
Sir John of Horneby, Knt. of whom is descended Lord Conyers.
Margery, m. Robt. Wycliffe.
Elizabeth, m. William Burgh.
Catharine, m. Conan Aske.—2d, ..... Pudsey.
Joan, m. Fitz Randolphe.
Margaret m. Roger Lascells. 2d, .... Pickering.
Robert, of Hutton.
Sir Rich. of Cowton.
Alice, d. of ... Wycliffe.
Margaret, d. and coh. m. Ra. Danby.
Eleanor, d. and coh. m. Rob. Lascells of Sowerby.
Margery, d. and coh. m Sir Ralph Bowes.
Sir Rog. Ld. of Winyard & Redmarshall, 4th pr. of Seaton, c.
Sibill, d. of Will. Langton, 1436.
William,
Isabel, d. of Ric. Clervaux, of Crofte.
Robert Claxton, of Haliwell, son of Will, son of Tho. son of Lionel of Claxton, son of Sir Roger,
Sibil, ob. 1500.
LISLE. Henry Lisle, of the Isle.
Sir John,
Catharine, neice and heir of Sir Henry.
Aline Langton, burgess of Berw. and Newcastle.
Henry, Lord of Winyard and Redmarshall.
Margery, d. of Rog. Fulthorpe.
Simon,
Alice, coh. to John, her neph —2dly, to Thomas Elmedon, of Winyard.
William of Winyard,
...... d. of Will. Elmedon.
Sibill, d. of Will. Langton, 1436.
John, 1st son ob. s. p.
Sir Thomas, Knt. 2d son.
John.
........ 2d d.
........
Joan,
Rich. Haton.
John.
Isabel,
Will. Porter.
4 dau.
John.
Alane.
John, ob. s. p. 1442.
Sir Henry, Lord of Winyard and Redmarshall, ann. 1303. ob. s. p.
CARROWE. Peter Carrowe, Lord of Seaton, car. tem. Ric. I.
Walter, living 1200, 2d King John.
John.
Thomas.
Walter.
John, son and heir.
(For the Notes see the other Side.)
The Genealogical Table is illustrated, and great Additions made thereto, by the following Historical Notes, taken from
Mr. GYLL'S MSS.
who, in the first part of the Collection, remarks, that he took the same and others, from a Manuscript written in the Reign of King Charles I.
In an old manuscript which I have seen of the descent of Connyers of Sockbourn, there is written as follow:
Sir John Connyers, Knt. slew the monstrous vermine, and poysonous vermine, or wyverne, or aske or worm, which overthrew and devoured many and sundry people in feight, for that the sent of the poyson thereof was so strong, that no personne might abide it. And by the providence of Almighty God, this John Connyers, Knt. overthrew the said monster, and slew it. But before he made this enterprise, having but one son, he went to the church at Sockburn in compleat armour, and offered up that, his only son, to the Holy Ghost: the place where this great serpent lay, was called Graystane.
And as it is written in the same manuscript, this John lieth buried in Sockbourn, in compleat armour, before the conquest.
Roger Connyers or Cognyers,
was Lord of Sockbourn about the time of the Norman conquest, which was An. Dom. 1060.—He was, by William the Conqueror, made constable of Durham Castle, and keeper of all the arms of the soldiers within that castle; which was after past to him, the said Roger, by deed to him and his heirs male for ever, and under the great seal of William de Sancto Carelipho, the then Bishop of Durham.—This Roger had issue Roger, his son and heir, and others.
Roger Connyers or Cognyers,
Lord of Sockbourn, son and heir of Roger the first, was also, after his father, constable of Durham castle, and of all the a
ms therein; and he had issue Roger, his son and heir, and others.
Roger Connyers,
the third of that name, son and heir of Roger the second, and grandchild to Roger the first, constable of Durham, and lord of Sockbourn, was also himself constable of Durham: this Roger he married the daughter of ...... Aiskby,
Esq
and had issue Robert and others.—Et Henricus 2d rex Angliae dedit vel confirmarit Rogero de Connyers sive de Cognyers constabulatum de Dunelme.
Robert Connyers,
Lord of Sockbourn, son and heir of Roger the third, of the christian name; he married the daughter of Robert Welbury, of Castle Eden, and had Robert and others.
Robert Connyers,
son and heir of Roger, and grandchild of Roger, the third of the name, was Lord of Sockbourn, and married the daughter of Layton,
Esq
and by her had Roger, Galfred, John, and others.—This Galfred, second son of Robert, afterwards had the estate, and was Lord of Sockbourn, either by gift or purchase.
Roger Connyers,
son and heir of Robert, the second of the name and family, was Lord of Sockbourn, and married the daughter of Sir Gilbert Hansard, Knt. and had issue Robert, the 3d of the christian name and family; he married the daughter ...... and died without issue — Robertus filius et heres Rogeri qui hereditatem suam alienavit Galfrido consanguineo suo et obijt fine prole.
Robert Connyers
of Sockbourn, was lord thereof; he was son and heir of Roger, son of Robert, the second of that christian name and family; he mar. ...... the daughter of ...... Umfravill,
Esq
and died without any issue.—Robertus filius et heres Rogeri: qui hereditatem suam alienavit Galfrido consanguineo suo et obiit sine prole.
Galfred Connyers,
second son of Robert Connyers, the second of that christian name, was lord and the owner of Sockbourn, after the death of Robert Connyers, the son and heir of Roger, who died without issue; and the descent of Connyers, in an old manuscript, sets down, that this Galfred bought the lordship of Sockbourn of his cousin Robert, the son of Roger, who died without issue, and so possessed the lordship of Sockbourn, and was lord and owner thereof; and so it seems, as by an antient deed, that Connyers of Sockbourn, was not the chief man of the family.—This Galfred married the daughter of Lilbourn,
Esq
and had issue John, Thomas, and James.
John Connyers,
son and heir of Galfred, was, after his father, Lord of Sockbourn: he married ...... the daughter of Sir Walter Manning, Knt. and had issue John, Galfred, and Humphrey; John and Galfred, the two eldest brothers, both died without issue, so as Humphrey, the youngest son of John, after the death of the two elder brothers, John and Galfred, was lord and owner of Sockbourn, and that whole estate; and in an old descent of the family which I have, he is set down primus miles, istis familiae.
Sir Umsrey Connyers,
of Sockbourn, Knt. third son of John, the son of Galfred Connyers, Lord and owner of Sockbourn, after the death of his two elder brothers, John and Galfred, who, both of them died without issue, leaving this Sir Humphrey Connyers, Knt. their brother, heir to them both, and was Lord of Sockbourn, and had the whole estate.—This Humphrey, he married the daughter of Sir John Basset, Knt. and had issue Sir John Connyers of Sockbourn, Knt.
Sir John Connyers
of Sockbourn, Knt. son and heir of Sir Humphrey Connyers, Knt. of Sockbourn; he married the daughter of Sir John Fitz J
ffry. Knt. and had issue R
Connyers of Sockbourn, Knt his son and heir, who had issue three daughters, his heirs; Jane married to Sir Rob. Bowes, of Dawden and Streatlam, Knt. Elizabeth married to John Cowell, jun. Knt. and Petriwell married to ...... Heron,
Esq
—This John, perceiving his elder son, Robert, to have no issue male, gave his lordship of Sockbourn to his younger son, Roger, to have the land of Sockbourn to continue in the family and name of ...... Connyers.
Sir Robert Connyers,
Knt. son and heir of John Connyers of Sockbourn, Knt. he married the daughter and heir of Sir John Surtees, Knt. and by her had issue three daughters, his heiresses.—Sir Robert Bowes, Knt. married one of the heirs general of Sir Robert Connyers, who was made knight at the battle of Poictiers, anno 1356.
Roger Connyers,
second son of Sir John Connyers of Sockbourn, Knt. and brother and next heir male of Sir Robert Connyers, that died without issue male, was, after the death of Sir Robert, his elder brother, who died before his father, Lord of Sockbourn.—This Roger, the son of John, and brother to Sir Robert, he married the daughter of Sir John Fayes, Knt. of ...... and had issue Galfred that died without issue; and Sir John Connyers, Knt. that married the daughter, and one of the coheirs of Sir William Aiton, Knt. Lord Vescy.
Sir John Connyers
of Sockbourn, Knt. second son of Roger; and, after the death of his eldest brother, who died without issue, heir to his father also: he married Elizabeth, the daughter and coheir of Sir William Aiton, Knt. the widow of William Place,
Esq
and by her he had issue Robert, afterwards Sir Robert Connyers, of Sockbourn, Knt.
Sir Robert Connyers
of Sockbourn, Knt. son and heir of John and Elizabeth Aiton, his wife, one of the coheirs of Sir William Aiton, Knt. and Lord Vescy's heir general: also this Robert he married Isabella, one of the heirs of William Peart,
Esq
(whose other heir) married to Conanus Aske, of Aske,
Esq
by her he had issue Crister Connyers of Sockbourn, Knt. his son and heir; Robert Connyers, second son; Humphrey Connyers, third son; John Connyers, of Horneby, called Justice John, a lawyer, was 4th son, and others.—William Peart,
Esq
had issue three daughters, his heirs; Elizabeth, who was married to Conanus Aske, of Aske,
Esq
Isabella married to Sir Robert Connyers, of Sockbourn; and Margaret who was mar. to—
—
Crister Connyers
of Sockbourn, son and heir of Sir Rob. Connyers of Sockbourn, Knt. and of his wife Isabella, one of the heirs of Will. Peart,
Esq
he mar. Marjory, the daughter of Sir William Eure, Knt. and had issue William, his son and heir, and others, both sons and daughters.
William Connyers
of Sockbourn,
Esq
son and heir of Crister; he married the daughter of Sir Ralph Biggot, of Settrington, Knt. and by her had issue Crister, Ralph, George, Robert, Roger, Richard, Cuthbert, and daughters.
Sir Crister Connyers
of Sockbourn, Knt. son and heir of William; he married the daughter of ...... Markenfield, of Markenfield,
Esq
and by her had issue Thomas 1st, Ralph 2d, Richard 3d, Robert 4th, George 5th, and Cuthbert 6th; Anne, Marian, Margaret, and Agnes.
Sir Thomas Connyers
of Sockbourn, Knt. son and heir of Crister; he married Margaret, the daughter of Sir Edward Radcliffe of Dilston, Knt. and by her had issue George.
Sir George Connyers
of Sockbourn, Knt. son and heir of Thomas; he married to his first wife, ...... the daughter of ...... Eure, Knt. by whom he had no issue; and then he married to his second wife, Anne, the daughter of Sir John Dawney of Seysey, Knt. and by her had issue John.
Sir John Connyers
of Sockbourn, Knt. son and heir of George; he married Anne, the daughter of Sir George Bowes of Streatlam, the Knight Marshall, and by her had issue George 1st, John 2d, William 3d, Ralph 4th, Robert 5th, and six daughs. Eleanor mar. to John Stindder; Jane mar. to James Lawson of Sum, and had issue; Elizabeth married to James Riddel of Gateside, Knt. and had issue Sir William Riddel, Knt. his son and heir, Thomas; Anne married to ...... Midford of Hoolam, obiit sine prole; Katherine to Sir William Kennet, Knt. and Mary married to Mr. Foster.
Sir George Connyers
of Sockbourn, Knt. son and heir of John; he married Katherine, daughter of Anthony Bulmer of Emdon,
Esq
and had issue George, who died an infant, William and John who died also young.
William Connyers
of Sockbourn,
Esq
son and heir of Sir George Connyers of Sockbourn, Knt. he married the daughter of George Symonds, and had issue Anne, his daughter and sole heir; married to Francis. Lord Talbot, afterwards Earl of Shrewsbury.
Crister Connyers
of Horneby, son and heir of John Connyers of Horneby, vulgarly called Justice John, married Eleanor, the daughter and sole heir of ...... Ryelston,
Esq
and by her had issue John Connyers, Knt. of the honourable order of the garter, and Lord of Horneby, of whom descended the Lord Connyers as below:
John Connyers
of Horneby, fourth son of Sir Robert Connyers of Sockbourn, Knt. which John was commonly called Justice John, a lawyer; he married Margaret, daughter and sole heir of Anthony St Quintaine, and had issue by her Christopher Connyers of Horneby.
Crister Connyers
of Horneby, son and heir of John Connyers of Horneby, vulgarly called Justice John.—This Crister, he married Eleanor, daughter and heir of ...... Ryelston, and by her had issue Sir John Connyers, Knt. of the noble order of the garter, his son and heir; Sir Richard Connyers, 3d son of South Couton, Knt. who had issue three daughters, his heirs; Margery married to Sir Ralph Bowes, Knt. Margaret married to Sir Robert Danby of Yafford,
Esq
Eleanor married to Robert Lassels of Sowerby; Robert Connyers of Hutton Wiffe, 5th son of Crister; Sir Roger Connyers of Winnyard, Knt. 6th son; William Connyers of Maske, 7th son; George Connyers of Danby, 8th son.
Sir John Connyers
of Horneby, Knt. of the most noble and honourable order of the garter, son and heir of Crister of Horneby; he married Marjory, one of the daughters and heirs of Philip, Lord Darcy and Mcnell, and by her had issue Sir John Connyers of Horneby, Knt. his son and heir; Rich. Connyers of Horden.—Henry Conyers, William and Crister, of Richard, second son of this Sir John, is descended Sir John Connyers, Knt. Bart. of Horden, in a direct male line.
Sir John Connyers
of Horneby, Knt. son and heir of John: he married Alice, one of the daughters and heirs of William Nevill, Lord Falconbridge, and Earl of Kent, and by her had issue William, first Lord Connyers, and others that died without issue.—This John was slain at the battle of Barnet, in the reign of King Edward ......—This John had a daughter named Elizabeth, who was married to Richard, Lord Lumley, and was mother of John Lord Lumley.
William,
first Lord Connyers, son and heir of Sir John Connyers of Horneby, and of his wife Alice, and one of the daughters and heirs of William Nevill, Lord Falconbridge, and Earl of Kent; he married Anne, the daughter of Ralph Nevill, third Earl of Westmorland of that family, and he had issue Crister, Lord Connyers, his son and heir, and others that died young without issue.
Crister, Lord Connyers,
son and heir of William, the first Lord Connyers; he married Anne, the daughter of William, Lord Dacres, of Gililand, and by her had issue John, Lord Connyers, his son and heir, and two daughters.
John, Lord Connyers,
son and heir of Crister, Lord Connyers; he married Mande, the daughter of Henry Clifford, first Earl of Cumberland, and by her he had issue, two sons that died young, and three daughters, his coheirs; Anne who was married to Anthony Kemp,
Esq
Elizabeth who was married to Thomas Darcey,
Esq
and was father of Sir Connyers Darcey of Horneby. Knt. and Katherine, third daughter of John, the last Lord Connyers, and one of his coheirs, was married to John Attorton,
Esq
Richard Connyers,
second son of Sir John Connyers, Knight of the Garter, and Lord of Horneby, and of his wife Marjory, one of the daughters and coheirs of Philip, Lord Darcey and Menell.—This Richard Connyers, he married Elizabeth, one of the daughters and heirs of Sir Robert Claxton, Knt. and had by her the lordship of Horden, and had issue Robert, Richard, and Perceval.
Robert Connyers,
son and heir of Richard, and in right of his mother, Lord of Horden; he married Marjory, daughter to Thomas Bamforth,
Esq
and had issue by her Crister,
Esq
his son and heir.—John and Ralph, and daughters, Elizabeth, .......
Crister Connyers
of Horden, son and heir of Robert; he married Anne, the daughter of Thomas Jackson of Beddall,
Esq
and by her had issue Richard, George, Nicholas, Ralph, Francis, Marjory, Alice, and Isabella.
Richard Connyers
of Horden,
Esq
son and heir of Crister; he married Isabella, the daughter of Roger Lumley of ......
Esq
and by her had issue Thomas, who died without issue.—Crister, his son and heir, who married Anne, the daughter of John Hedworth of Harraton,
Esq
and had issue Richard, Anne, Elizabeth, and Jane, and John Connyers of Horden, Baronet.—
End of the old Manuscript.
Sir Baldwin Connyers,
head of the Family died about 50 years ago, leaving his estate to his two only daughters.—The baronetage came to Ralph Connyers, his heir at law, who was a glazier, and from him descended to Blakiston Connyers, his third son and heir. who was in very low estate; for some time a dependant on the house of Bowes, and afterwards was collector of the customs of Newcastle upon Tyne.—He lately died without issue.
RAVENSWORTH CASTLE
RAVENSWORTH CASTLE,
the seat of the family of Liddells, now of Sir Henry George Liddell, bart. stands on the side of a hill, sloping gradually towards the east; a situation not chosen for strength. Near to it, by the road side, is a stone column, but of what event it is a memorial, history or tradition give no account. The antiquity of this castle leads to conjectures as to the etymology of the name; in many old records it is called
Ravens-helm
and
Ravenswaith,
in the old spelling
Raffensweath.
The Danish standard was called
Raffen,
and
weath
is a north country word, now used in Scotland for
sorrow.
"I should be very
weath
to do such an act," is a phrase very commonly used in this country. The application we would make is, that Ravensworth castle is of Danish foundation, and had its name from them as Raffens-Helm, or the strong hold of the Danish standard; and that some defeat of that people had occasioned the name of Raffens-weath, or Danish woe. All etymologies, where there is such a mixture of languages as in this country, will be subject to much uncertainty, and we offer this only as a vague conjecture. This castle has anciently formed a complete square, with a tower at each corner, connected with a curtain wall: Whether there was any keep or other structure in the center, it is not possible to determine; two of the towers form part of the offices to the present mansion, the other two project to the front. The apartments are small, but neat, without much ornament; the breakfast room and room above it are modern, and face the south, with a bow window; the lower one stuccoed; the upper room elegantly fitted up, and hung with tapestry of Antwerp; at one end of the room the landscape work is strikingly beautiful, in the stile of Pousin: There is a spacious saloon, stair-case, and a good dining-room. The castle is shut in to the north and west by a fine forest of oaks, the nursery of a large breed of herons, and some pheasants: The south aspect consists of rich meadow lands, scattered over with large trees at irregular distances: To the east the vale of Lamesley, beautifully cloathed with wood, is extended to the eye for a mile and a half; immediately opposite, at the greatest distance, Gateshead-fell, wild and shaken, with a multitude of hovels and cottages.
Soon after bishop Flambard came to the See, he granted to Richard his nephew, and his heirs, to hold in fee by homage and the service of half a knight's see, Ravensworth, Blakiston, and Hetton, now called Eighton
Vol. i. p. 149.
Orig. penes Hen. Liddell, bart.—This deed describes the boundaries.—Hen. I. confirm.—These instruments were given in evidence at York assizes, 1716, by Sir Hen. Liddell against lord Crewe, in a boundary cause.—
Randal's MSS.
Lel. Itin. vol. viii. p. 5.
A byshop of Durham gave, as it apperith by writings, the lordeshipe of Ravensworthe apon a time to a nephew of his. Sins it was one Umfrevill's, then Lomeley, and now Gascoyne. Bointon was owner of the castle no very longe tyme sens.
. Ravensworth castle was a fortress before any records now extant; as there is no licence to embattle and kernellate this house found in the bishop's archives, though of every other castle in the county there is that evidence. It is presumed, that according to the fashion of the times, the owner of Ravensworth assumed a local name: In the twelfth year of bishop Hatfield, we find Tho. Stutville held lands of
the lady of Ravenswarth
Inq. p. m. cor. Joh. de Byrland. vic. & esc.
; and in the twenty-third year of that prelate, Alex. de Kybblesworth held a moiety of
the vill of Ravensworth, of Elianora countess of Ravenshelm
Inq. p. m. cor. W. de Menevyll, vic.
: Here we also have the distinction before noted of
Ravenshelm.
In the same year, on an inquisition taken on the death of William de Silksworth, it appears he died seised of the manors of Ravenshelm and Lamesley. In the twenty-fifth year of the same prelate, John de Kibblesworth held a moiety of the vill of Ravensworth of Robert de Lumley, by the eighth part of a knight's fee, and a messuage and forty acres in Landheved in Ravensworth, held of the bishop
in capite,
under thirteen shillings and four-pence rent. In the thirty-fifth year of the same prelate, Robert de Umfrevill,
esq
was possessed of a messuage only in Ravensworth, which he held of Alan de Ravensworth
Inq. p. m. cor. Wil. del. Bowes, esc.
. In the third year of bishop Fordham, Robert de Lomley died seised of the manors of Ravenshelm and Lamesley
Inq. p. m. cor. R. de Laton, esc.
; and in the fifth year of bishop Skirlaw, Elizabeth, his widow, who afterwards married John de Bukham, died possessed in dower of the third part of those manors
Inq. p. m. ap. Chestre, cor. chiv. Boynton. esc.
. The branch of Lumleys seated at Ravensworth castle became extinct in Isabell, the daughter and heiress of Bertram Lumley, who married Sir Henry Boynton, whose daughter and heiress Elizabeth married Sir Henry Gascoiyn, who, in the eighth year of bishop Tunstall, had livery of her castle, manors, and estates
tors Rods, Bishop Tunstall.—
Rudd's MSS.
☞
Lumley's pedigree on the next page.
Willus Lumley mil. ob. 1473
Elizabetha
Thomas Lumley ar. 1487, 2d Rich. III.
Bertramus Lumley An. 2 Rich. III.
Marg. fil. Tho. d'ni Lumley
Isabella fil. & her. Bertram Lumley
Henricus Boynton fil. Chr. de Sudbury mil.
Isabella fil. & her.
Henricus Gascoyne 2 fil. Will. de Cawthorpe
Henricus de Sudbury
Richardus Ao 1578.
Flower's Visitation.
. In the fifth year of king James I. Sir William Gascoin, by indenture of bargain and sale inrolled, conveyed to Thomas Liddell,
esq
ancestor of the present Sir Henry, all the castle and manor of Ravenshelm, alias Ravenshell, and the manor of Lamesley; and on the 2d of August, in the sixth year of king James I. Sir William, with dame Barbary his lady, levied a fine of the granted estates, with a description of four thousand acres of furz and heath, and three thousand acres of moor in Ravenshelme, Lamesley, Eighton, Hedley, Over-Eighton, Nether-Eighton, Longacres, Ravensworth, and Pokerley: In the second year of bishop James, pardon was granted of the above mentioned fine and alienation
Cursitors Rolls, Bishop James.—
Rudd's MSS▪
Sir William Gascoin of Sedbury, was son of Richard Gascoin,
esq
and grandson of Henry, knight.—Tho. Liddell of Ravensworth,
esq
was created a baronet in November, 1642.
By the will of Sir Tho. Liddell, dated the 1st of August, 1661, it is set forth, that he received the sum of six hundred pounds from Sir George Tonge of Denton, in the county of Durham, knt. in consideration of his daughter Eliz. her filial portion at the intermarriage betwixt his son Sir Fran. Liddell, knt. and the said Eliz. Tonge; in consideration of which he granted to Sir Francis the working of one coal pit within the lordship of Ravenshelm, for the term of twenty-one years, beginning immediately after his decease. He gave to his grandchild Eliz. Liddell, all that part and houshold stuff he brought along with him for his own chambre unto Balmborough. To his grand child Mary Liddell, one great gilt bowle and 100l. To his sonne Geo. Liddell his three children 350l. To all the children of Sir Francis Liddell, excepting the said Mary; and to the grand children of his son in law Sir Geo Baker, knt. and to the children of his son in law Sir Nich. Cole, knight and baronet; as also to the children of his daughter: Isabell Anderson, 50l. a piece. And he gave to his son Sir Francis 100l. in satisfaction of 100l. which his brother Cole lately received by virtue of an extent forth of the Redheugh.—
Reg. Neile, p.
117.—
Randal's MSS.
.
Of LAMESLEY there is little distinct from Ravenshelm in the records: The Stutvills and Eures held portions of land there of the Lumleys, but of little consideration in the whole. In the inquisition taken on the death of Thomas Lumley, in the sixteenth year of bishop Booth, this manor, of which he died seised, is described to consist of sixty acres of arable land, fifty acres of pasture, ten acres of meadow, and forty acres of wood; and Eighton is described as parcel of the manor. This vale exhibits a new scene for description; busy and black faces, machines loaden with coals rolling on frames, engines, and smoaking furnaces, perpetual agitation, traffic, and business: But of these matters we shall speak at large hereafter
O'ib's videntib's et audientib's literas istas t'm futuris q'm p'sentib's Rob'tus filius Ric'i de Ravenswich sal'm Sciatis me concessisse & in p'rpetuum quiete clamasse Galfrido fil. Galfridi nepoti meo & heredibus suis in seodo & hereditate totum clameum & totum jus q'd habui in villa de Lamesleya cum suis p'tin. et in villa de Horden cum suis p'tin. & in villa de Blakiston cum suis p'tin. et in villa de Hettona cum suis p'tin. et in villa de Silkeswich quae suer. Galfrid. fil. Ric'i p'ris ejusdem Galfridi. Preterea quietum clamavi eidem Galfrido et heredibus suis in p'petuum totum jus q'd habui in villa de Hamildona cum suis p'tin. et in o'ib's al's villis et terris quibus Ric'us pater meus vel Galfridus filius Ric'i vel ego aliquod jus vel heretagium habuimus. Propter hanc vero quietam clamationem mihi dedit idem Galfridus nepos meus sexginta marcas argenti. Et sciendum est quod idem Galfridus concessit mihi & heredibus meis pro homagio & servitio meo totam villam de Ravensworth cum suis p'tin. excepto vasto q'd in manu sua ad opus suum & ad opus heredum suor. o'io retinet, faciendo inde forinsec. servicium quantum pertinet ad quartam partem feodi unius militis cum forinseco servicio de Hedley. Hiis testibus Henrico de Nevill, Rob. fil. Meldredi, Jordano Esculand, &c. &c.
Ibid.
.
The town of RAVENSWORTH is so mixed with the preceding subject, that nothing material remains to be selected from the records to be applied thereto singly; save only that in the inquisitions we find regularly the distinctions of Ravenshelm and Ravenswath.
KIBBLESWORTH gave name to a resident family, and Thomas Stutvill, in the beginning of bishop Hatfield's episcopacy, held a moiety of the vill of Kibblesworth, of Alex. de Kibblesworth, by homage, fealty, ward, marriage, and suit of court, estimated at one hundred pounds value above reprisals. Alexander died seised of the chief hall of Kibblesworth vill, with a moiety of the same vill held of the bishop by the tenth part of a knight's fee
Kybblesworth.
Thomas Trewyk & Alicia de Massham, Ricardus de Cramelyngton & Will's Symson haered. Alex'i de Kybbleworth tenent xl acr. terrae juxta Ladheved per cart. & servic. forin. red. xiiij s. iiij d.
D'nus de Nevile et Gilbertus Eglyne tenent villam de Britley, & vadunt in magn. chac. cum ij leporar. & redd. per ann. ad iiij terminos xx s.
Jordanus de Merley tenet maner. de Bromemyngholme & xxjx acr. terrae juxta Tribley quond'm patris sui & redd. per ann. jx s. viij d.
Robertus Umsravill tenet maner. de Farneacres per servic. forin. & redd. ij s.
Will's Bultflour tenet j mes. & xxviij acr. terrae per cart. ut supra quond. Rob. Grems. red. xvj s.
Will's de Bekley tenet j mes. &c acr. terrae vocat. Wyhirst. quond'm Rod'i Bekler, red. xiij s. iiij d.
Johannes Hog tenet j mes. & xxx acr. terrae vocat. Wyhirst. soleb. reddere per cart. xiij s. v d. modo red. per cart. x s.
Terrae scaccarij.
Johannes del More tenet, &c. Tho. Stafforth, &c.—D'nus Bertramus Monboucher, &c. Ricardus Lawes, &c. Octo alij tenentes tenent iiij plac. & divers. acr. terrae, red. cert. redd. annuatim.
Robertus de Lomeley tenet j molend. aquat. juxta Ravenswirth, & redd. vj d.
Omnes tenentes redd. pro stagno j molend. ibid. quolibet anno vj d.
Hatfield's Survey.
Inq. p. m. 23 Hatfield, cor. W. de Menevyll, vic.
. In the fourth year of bishop Langley, John Stutville died seised of the whole manor, then valued at ten pounds, held by military service and suit at the county court, from five weeks to five weeks. In the fifth year of bishop Booth, Bertram Harbotel died seised of a moiety of the manor
Inq. p. m. &c.
, leaving Ralph his son and heir. The Mashams had some small property in this manor
Inq. p. m. Aliciae ux. Rob. de Masham, 9th bishop Langley, cor. W. de Claxton, esc.
. Kibblesworth became the property of the Skirfields, and Will. Skirfield conveyed the same to John Hedworth,
esq
and George Lawson, gent. for which alienation by fine, bishop James granted his pardon, dated the 20th of August, in the eighth year of his episcopacy
rsitor▪ Rolls.—
Rudd's MSS.
. William Bonner,
esq
was possessed of considerable property at Kibblesworth, and dying in 1759, devised his estates to his daughter's children, one of whom married James Hargrave of Shawdon, in Northumberland,
esq
the other to Thomas Lewen, of Durham,
esq
William Hargrave,
esq
was the issue of the first-named marriage, and there was a daughter of the other marriage, who died without issue.
Of DARNCROOK we find nothing memorable.
The vill of HEDLEY was the estate of the Mundevills, of which family Gilbert de Merley and Agnes his wife held the manor of Hedley, with a moiety of the vill, making suit at the court of Ravenshelm, and paying to William Bultflour and his heirs thirteen shillings and four-pence rent
Inq. p. m. Gil. de Merley. 25 bishop Hatfield, cor. W. de Menevyil, vic.
. It soon after became parcel of the Gibside estates, of which the Blaxtons were vested in the reign of king James I. as appears by a pardon of alienation in the fourteenth of that king.
FARNACRES is not noticed in the assignment of the prebends, and probably at that time was included in the description of Lamesley or Ravenshelm: In some of the records it is called of the parish of Whickham. It gave name to the resident family in the beginning of bishop Hatfield's episcopacy; but when his survey was taken, Robert Umfrevill held the manor by homage, fealty, and the fourth part of a knight's fee, as also appears by an inquisition taken on his death, in the thirty-fifth year of that prelate, then valued at ten pounds. This family fell into female issue in the time of bishop Langley, as is before noted in Holmside, in the parish of Lanchester. In 1428, Robert Umfrevill obtained licence to found a chantry in the chapel of Farnacres within that manor, which he endowed with the manor; after which, in 1439, the hospital of Frereside was annexed thereto: After the dissolution, Farnacres was annexed by purchase to the Ravensworth estate
Farneacres.
Eudo de Lucels tenet in Farnacres j carucat de xxvj acris pro decima parte feodi unius mil.
Robertus de Joltune tenet terram quae fuit heremitae super Derwentam, & reddit unum bisanciuim, vel ij s.
Boldon Buke.
Vide Kybblesworth, Hatfield's Survey.
Thomas d. gra. &c. Sciatis. &c. concessimus & licentiam dedimus, &c. Rob'to Umfrevile mil. q'd ipse quand. cantariam de uno mag'ro capello & uno alto capello sibi associando divina sig'lis dieb's in capella de Farnacres infra man'ium de Farnacres p' salubri, &c. int' al's p'aiab's oiu'm nobilium principium & militum qui nup' de garteria Sci Georgij de Wyndesore infra regnum Anglie existerunt & existent in futur. &c. Et q'd id. Rob. p't q'm dicta cantaria sic facta fundata & stabilita fuerit dare possit & assignare, &c. man'ium de Fernacres cum p'tin. q'd de nobis tenetur. in capite, hend. & imp'p'm.—
Rot. B. Langley,
No 12, 1428.
Thomas d. gra. &c. Concessimus q'd cant'ia p'dca cantaria scor. Joh'is Baptiste & Joh'is Evangeliste de Fernacres nuncupetur imp'p'm & q'd magister & sociis suis capelli cant'ie p'dce sint p'sone habiles & capaces ad p'quirend. terr. &c. & q'd possint plitare, &c. 20 die Martij, 1428.—
Ibid.
No 4.
Thomas, &c. Sciatis q'd cum Joh'es Lyster capellus nup' adquisivit sibi & he'd suis de Rob'to Umfravyll mil. & Isabella ux. ejus man'ium de Fernacres cum p'tin. que de nob. tenentur in capite, & illud ingressus suisset ac idem Joh'es idem man'ium cum p'tin. dedisset & concessisset p'sate Rob'to he'nd sibi & hered's suis &c. Et ulterius concessimus, &c. p'sato Rob. q'd ip'e he'at & teneat man'ium, &c. sibi & he'd. suis de nob. & succ. n'ris p' servicia inde debit & co'sueta imp'p'm nolentes q'd Joh'es, &c. aut Rob. &c. inde inquietentur, &c. 26o Aug. 1429.—
Ibid.
No 8.
Licentia Rob'to Umfravile, feoffare Will'm Tart, cl. & Adam Toslon, cl. Rot. B. Langley,
No 52.
Irrot. l'rar pat sub sigillo ad causas de unione & annexione hospitalis de Freresyd cantaria de Farnacres, Rot. B. Nevill, indorso No 72. Universis, &c. Rob'tus p'missione divina, &c. exhibita nob. nup' p'p'te dictor. filior. mag'ri & socii sui capellor. cant'ie de Farnakers, &c. que t'n on'a dci. mag'r & socius suus attentis decrescentiis & diminucoib's fructuum emolumentor. & p'ventuum h'moi in dict. man'io & suis p'tin. p' innudaco'es aquar. & alia mundi misera infortunia quotidie in deteriora delabent emergentibus non poterunt hiis diebus nec in futur verisiliter debite supp'tare nisi eis de alicujus subvenco'is remedio succurratur. Quor. p'missor. p'textu annexio unio incorp'aco & app'priaco cujus hospitalis de Freresyd jam vacantij m'ar etiam collacois & dioc. eis & cor. cantarie de Farnacres, &c. nob astancium dc'm hosp. de Freresyd cum jur. & p'tin. univ'sis p'dce cant'ie de Farnakers annectimus unimus & incorp'amus, &c. dat. duodecimo die mensis Sept. 1439.
Collations E. Reg'ro Fox, p. 5. Tunstal, p. 27.
Copyhold book, m. p. 457.
Halm. ap. Chestr. xix die Oct. an. transl. Cuthb'ti 17o .
Whickham.
It. p'nt q'd Rob. Claxton de Farneacres cap'nus adhuc non fecit fossat. suum int. cursum aquae molendini ibid. & t'r d'nii de Ravensworth ad grave nocumentum vicinorum vj d.
At the dissolution of the chantries A. D. 1547, R. Claxton had an annuity of five pounds allowed, which he received in 1553.
Conform'aco Henrici Liddell, armiger. E. reg'ro Neile, p. 100, 1627.
N. B. Fryerside lies on the banks of Derwent, a little above Gibside.
In 1620, by an inquisition taken on the death of Tho. Liddell,
esq
alderman of Newcastle, Fernacres is thus described:
Cantar. Sanctor. Joh'is Evangest. & Joh'is Baptist. vocat. Farnacres chantrie in parochia de Whickham, nuper dissolut. & de tota capitali domo & scitu ejusd. nuper cantar. & de uno molendino aqua'tus & de oib's terris, &c. voc. Grevegarth, Netherfrereside, Priestfield, Greveacres, et Grevehouse, & oib's mess. ter. &c. in villis campis parochiis & hamlet de Whickham, Tanfield, Wardel, Wolsingham, & Lamesley, &c.
; and was settled on the marriage of Thomas Liddell, of Newcastle, merchant, to Elizabeth, daughter of William Jennison, of the same place, merchant, and described to have been acquired, together with Tanfield and Lamesley, by purchase from Tho. Edams and others, the 13th of November, 1600
Inq. p. m. Tho. Liddell, arm. & alderm. 1620, Neile, ep.
.
The chapel of TANFIELD has lately been rebuilt, and fitted up in a handsome manner; it was formerly dependent on Chester. Bertram Mounboucher is the first possessor we find mentioned in the records of Tanfield, which is thus noted in the inquisition taken on his death, in the first year of bishop Skirlaw:
All the manor of Tanfield, with the hamlet and appurtenances held of Robert de Conyers, knight, and Ellen his wife, by homage, and one penny rent, value five marks:
He also held the manors of Beamish and Cawsey
Tanfield Curacy.
—Dedicated to St Margaret.—Hen. Liddell pat.—Not in charge or certified.
CURATES.
John Mason, 1409
Will. Hardweke, 1562
Rob. Dawson, 1574
John Armstrong, 21 Jan. 1580
Joh. Wilson, 7 Feb. 1582
Joh. Mason, 7 Jul. 1582
Hugh David, 11 Jan. 1583
Tho. Carter, 1608
Joh. Martin, 1673
Joh. Aird, 1700
Joh. Balguy, A. M. 1711
Rob. Wilson, A. M. 1729, p. res. Balguy
Joh. Wibbersley, A. M. 1751, p. m. Wilson, pr. lord Ravensworth
Caleb Dixon, 1782, p. m. Wibbersley
Randal's MSS.
Sub hoc tumulo Sepulta jacent corpora Timothei & Elizabethae Davison Haec conjux clarissima Gulielmi Davison de Beamish arm. Ille filius eorum primo genitus Cujus (heu nimium dilecti) mors immatura Etiam secum rapuit matrem Forma adhuc & aetate llorentem Obiit hic 15 Decemb. An. Dom. 1708, aetat. 6 Illa in consolabilis quotidie moricus Vitam heu miseram Pro beata immortalitate libenter commutavit 20 Decemb. Ann. Dom. 1712, aetat. 40.
Ra. Harrison of Brian's-lope, in this chapelry, who died in 1697, by his will left to the poor of the chapelry of Tanfield 100l. in money, as a standing stock, to be put out for their use by the most substantial men of that chapelry. Proved 8 April, 1699.
Tanfield collieries were sold during the usurpation, to Marshall two-thirds, 91l. 16s. Lovett one-third, 17l. 6s. 8d.—
Vol. i. p. 513.
Tanfield.
—Book of rates 10l. 4s. 3d.—Value of lands, &c. 1570l.
Land tax at 4s. a pound.
County rate 6s. 8d.
Beamish
66
9
6
1
11
0¾
Lints green
66
17
6
1
17
0½
Registered estates.—Tanfield, Mr Anth. Meabourne, 3l. 7s.—Lints green, Mr Rich. Hodgson, 173l.— Mr Nich. Blakiston, 52l.—Francis Wray, 7l.— Mrs Mary Hudson, 80l.
. The house of
Cawsey,
or as it is called in the old records
Caldsit,
is situated a little distance from Tanfield: This estate has for some considerable time appertained to the family of Claverings. The Dawsons had property and a mansion-house at Tanfield, now annexed to the Beamish estate. Beamish continued in the family of Monbouchers for several generations; and in the time of bishop Nevill, Elizabeth, baroness of Hilton, formerly the wife of Bertram Monboucher, died possessed of Beamish and Tanfield, which she held for life. In the fifth year of bishop Booth, Bertram Harbotell died seised
Inq. p. m. cor. Joh. Athirton, arm. esc.
of the manors of Beamish and Tanfield, in the latter of which Caweset, Le-Croke, and Le-Leigh are described as members. The manor of Beamish is therein set out to consist of one hundred and sixty acres of land, and forty acres of wood. The Hilton name became extinct in female issue, Dorothy, one of the coheiresses, marrying Morton Davison of Beamish,
esq
The Davisons also failed in male issue, and the large possessions of that family are come to Sir John Eden, baronet, whose mother was the surviving sister of Morton Davison,
esq
eldest son of the before named Morton.
BEAMISH-HOUSE is situate in a wooded vale, on the banks of the river Team, and in a deep retirement; the adjacent lands are fertile and well sheltered, but the hills which surround it barren and lofty; yet nature has amply recompensed all outward deformities, by her riches in mines of coal and iron.
Near Tanfield is a great work called
Cawsy-Bridge,
carried over a deep gill or valley, to obtain a level for the coal waggons to pass, constructed at the expence of the Grand Associators in colliery works in this country, known by the local appellation of the Grand Allies: The span of the arch is one hundred and two feet, which rises in abutments or land piers about nine feet in height, and being semicircular, makes the elevation about sixty feet; the level is from thence kept up by forced bankings of earth, in some parts forty feet in height, and one hundred and forty paces in length; much more expensive than mason-work: There is a drift cut through the solid rock, to convey the stream of the rivulet under the bankings. The valley is wooded, wild, and romantic.
TANFIELD LEIGH
Tamfeldlegh.
Will's Jonson, tenet. ibid. iv mes. vj partes de Taumfeldlegh contin. xxviij acr. quond'm Johannis de Birtley de Twyfill, & solebat reddere per ann. liij s. iiij d. modo, redd. xl s.
Bertramus Monboucher tenet. vij partes de Taumfeldlegh sicut contin. in xv parcell. in antiquo rentali & redd. per an. jxs. jxd.—Idem Bertramus tenet villam de Tamfeldlegh xxxvi acr. terrae & red. xxxjx s. x d.
Hatfield's Survey.
is mentioned in bishop Hatfield's Survey in such large descriptions, that we are induced to believe by that name, the whole of Tanfield was anciently comprehended: Exclusive of what was at that time the estate of the Monbouchers, John of Birtley, then of Twisills, held eight score acres of land, being six parts in fifteen of that place: It was part of the possessions of Sir Nich. Tempest, who also held Stanley hall. Stanley was the estate of the Birtleys, till Thomas de Birtley, about the eighth year of bishop Skirlaw, who held the manor of Stanlew for life, with certain premisses called the Hag, alias Hall, with a reversion expectant to Richard de Kirkenny, granted the same to Ralph de Lomley, held of the bishop
in capite
by military service, and subject to the payment of ten pounds yearly, to Catharine the widow of William de Kirkenny for life.
STOKERLEY, CROOK, and FRERESYDE, were the estates of Roger Thornton, and came to the Lumleys by intermarriage with his daughter
Exempl. Inq. p. m. Thornton, 18 Apr. 14 bishop Booth.
.
The manor of LYNCE, or LINTS, gave a local name to the resident family, whose male issue failing in the fifth year of bishop Hatfield, the estate descended to
PEDIGREE OF SHAFTOE OF TANFIELD-LEIGH.
John Shaftoe of Tanfield-Leigh.
—daughter of Fenwick of Wallington
Gerard of Bavington
—daughter of Foster of Edderstone
James of Tanfield-Leigh
Mary
Christ.
Rowland
James liv. 1615.
Eliz. d. of Tho. Milles of Collingham.
James son & heir aet. 8, 1615.
John
Thomas
Richard
Catherine
Elianor m. Blareton
Mary m. Tho. Trotter
Flower's Visit.
Jacobus Shafto de fam. de Bavington
Will.
— fil. Fenwyke
Clemens Shaftoe de Anvill. in episcopatu
Eliz. fil. Rowl. Rawe
Rowlandus de Anvil. ao 1575
Isabella fil. Rob. Raine of Shortflat, c. Northum.
Will. aet. 10 1575
Anthony
Anne
Willielmus de Swalwell An. 1516.
Marg. fil. Joh. Bellingham de Crookhall.
Arthur
Alice fil. J. Gascoyne of Turnmill
Timothy fil. & her. Aet. 8, An. 1615.
Will.
Jane
Will.
Christ.
Charles
Barbera m. Ra. Blenkinsop of Birtley.
Isabel
Marg.
Elizabeth m. Nath. Jackson
Barbara m. R. Harbottle
Isabell m. W. Lawe
Anna m. — Harbottle
Flower's Visit.
three coheiresses, daughters of Richard de Lynce
Inq. p. m. Rob. de Lynce, 5 bishop Hatfield.
: It afterwards became the estate of the family of Redhoughs
Inq. p. m. Hugh del. Redhoughs, 3 bp Skirlaw, who died seised of two parts of the manor of Lynths, the third part being in dower, held of the bishop in cap. by knt. serv. suit of court, and 28s. 8d. rent.—Also 6s. 8d. rent out of the lands of Rob. Boutflour, in the vill of Lynths, and 12d. free rent out of the tenements of Henry Kant there.
, who failing in male issue, this, with their other possessions, descended to coheiresses in the fifteenth year of bishop Langley, on the death of Thomas de Redhough, son of Thomas, son of Hugh, the daughter and grand daughter of which Hugh succeeded, viz. Mary, the wife of Henry Boteler, and Grinatruda the wife of William Hokley, who was the daughter of Agnes, the daughter of the same Hugh. Mary died without issue, so that the whole vested in Grinatruda, in the twentieth year of the same prelate
Inq. p. m. Tho. de Redhough, 7 Oct. 15 bishop Langley.—Inq. p. m. Mary Boteler, 15 July, 20 bishop Langley.
. When the family of Hodgson obtained possession, we have no evidence, but after their enjoyment for a considerable number of years, male issue failed in Ralph Hodgson,
esq
the last proprietor, on whose death the family estate at Lints Green descended to his only daughter now living.
Near Lints Green is a neat little mansion called the Leazes, the seat of William Scafe,
esq
counsellor at law.
We must not quit this tract without observing, that traces of a Roman way have frequently been discovered on the moor north of Urpeth, in a direction leading from the north to Chester: Within a mile of Urpeth is a round hill, with a trench, one of those temporary fortifications used on the incursion of the Scots, when they came down in small bands to pillage the country: Such are numerous all over the borders. At Lawsome hill is a most extensive prospect, commanding the Chiviots to the north, Cleveland hills south, Newcastle towards the east, with Lumley castle, Chester, and Durham cathedral on the nearer grounds, the towns of Tanfield and Shield-row, with the mountains at the head of Weredale, on the most distant ground, to the west. The rivulet of Team may truly be called a mechanic stream, as there are not in the north any works to be compared to those its waters supply: It carries ten mills or more, for the working of iron by Crowley's people, making oil, fulling, and grinding corn. Although mining and trade exercise the attention of so many inhabitants, yet agriculture and country occupations are not neglected: The farmers have introduced an improved breed of sheep, by crossing with the Lincolnshire sort, and feed mutton to twenty-five pounds a quarter; the fell sheep are small and degenerated by want of change: The fell-bred cattle are about twenty-five stone weight at the slaughter; the better breed come to about sixty stone weight: Such are the stocks on the estates adjoining the moors; in the lower lands by the banks of the river, the breeds of cattle are much superior. There are iron mines near Tanfield, which appear to have been wrought in very distant times: The metal lies at a very inconsiderable depth from the surface. If the use of coal be so important as a late pretended discovery seemed to promise, these mines from their situation may hereafter prove of very great importance.
The Parish of
MUGGLESWICK.
Adjoining to Lanchester parish, on the west, lies the parish of Muggleswick. The first mention made of this place is in the time of bishop Pudsey, who granted it to the convent of Durham, in exchange for Hardwick: And in the middle of the thirteenth century, Hugh, prior of Durham, inclosed a park here, and built a camera, consisting of a hall, chapel, and lodgings: The remains of those structures yet appear, part of the park wall and the east end of the chapel; the whole camera has had underground apartments for securing cattle during the incursions of the Scots. Bishop Bainbrigg granted to the convent a confirmatory charter of Muggleswick, and also of two hundred and sixteen acres of wood and waste lands in the vill of Horseleyhope, given to them by bishop Kirkham, with licence to inclose and empark the same, accompanied with an inspeximus of his predecessors several grants
Bainbrigg Rot. B. No 66.—
Ibid. Rot. No 64. 28 Sep. 1508.
. The etymology of the name of Muggleswick is very doubtful; it seems to have derivation from the Scotch word
mickle,
and might imply a large village in former times, though now an insignificant little place. The church is a mean edifice; the nave thirty-seven feet in length and twenty-one in width; and the chancel eighteen feet long and fifteen wide: The park was originally about three miles long and two broad; much of it is now in tillage and divided into farms
Muggleswick curacy.
Prior of Durham prop.—Dean and chapter Durham patrons.
It is a peculiar belonging to the dean and chapter, and not being in charge pays no first fruits or tenths, and procurations to the bishop only when he visits.—Cert. val. 15l. 18s. 8d.—Proc. ep. 2s. 6.
CURATES.
Rich. Staykiston, 1323
John de Skipton, 1357
Galfrid. Bachiler, 1361
Rob. de Durham, 1391
Hen. Hynton, 1410
Rob. de Aukland, 1411
Robert Forrest, 1504
Joh. Byndley, cl. pres. 28 Mar. 1550
Tho. Benson, cl. pres. 12 Mar. 1565, p. m. Byndley
Tho. Hawkins, cl. 10 Jun. 1572, p' depr. Benson
Jaco. Murthwaite, oc. 21 Mar. 1575, p. res. Hawkins
Miles Watmough, oc. 3 Feb. 1577
Will. Southwick, 1586, p. res. Watmough
Pet. Fisher, cl. 15 May, 1607, p. m. Southwick
Rich. Bradley, A. M. 20 Nov. 1641, p. m. Fisher
Tho Boyer, an intruder, depr. for non-conformity: Afterwards confirmed
John Dury, A. M. 28 July, 1662, p. res. Bradley
Chr. Smith, admitted coadjutor to Mr John Dury, being old and unable to serve, in the cures of Edmondbiers and Muggleswick, 16 Oct. 1684
Chr. Smith, 20 Nov. 1684, p. m. Dury
Fra. Hunter, A. M. 27 Sep. 1735, p. m. Smith
Tho. Coulthard, A. M. a Scotch degree, 1743, p. m. Hunter
Will. Stephenson, A. M.
Randal's MSS.
In the church-yard lies interred, one Edward Ward, a person of gigantic stature, and a great hunter in his days, whose limbs were so enormous, that tradition says, a favourite hound littered in his wooden shoe:— He was most probably one of the seditious associators in 1662, and from the enormity of his exploits obtained the name of giant.
 
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from 1760 to 1779
 
 
 
Dean and chapter's rents—Shotley burn 10s. 3d.—Edmundblers 6l. 8s. 2d.—Muggleswick 4l. 8s. 4d.— Underside 16s. 8d.—Bishops tenths in Edmundbiers 13s. 1½d.
Muglyngwye.
Prior de Dunelm. habet Muglyngwye sicut in carta quam inde habet continetur tam de gratia & dono D'ni episcopi quam in Escambium de Herdewic.—
Boldon Buke.
Mugliswyk.
Prior Dunolm. tenet maner. de Mugliswyk in Escamb. pro villa de Herdwyk.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Durham.—
The information of John Ellerington, of Blenchland, in the said county, March
22, 1662.
This informant saith, That he hath known divers seditious meetings in Muggleswick park, within these last six months, sometimes at the house of one John Ward, who is one of their chief preachers, sometimes at the house of John Readshaw, Robert Blenkinsop, and Rowland Harrison, who were met together. The said John Ward, John Readshaw, Robert Blenkinsop, and Rowland Harrison, together with Capt. Dossen, Capt. George Gower, Robert Readshaw, son of the said John, Robert Taylor, Mark Taylor, both of Ecles bridge, John March, of the same, John Joplin, of the Fox-holes, John March, of Ridley mill, Cuthbert Newton, of Hendsey, Richard Taylor, of Crankley, Henry Angas, Cuthbert Maugham, of Birchenfields, George Readshaw, of Edmondbyers, John Oliver, of the same, Lewis Frost, of South-Sheales, Cuthbert Coatsworth and Michael Coatsworth, of the same, Richard Ord and John Ord, of Birchenhaugh, James Carr, of Ardley, Rob. Dalmer, of Crowcroke, Rowland and Nicholas Harrison, sons of Rowland Harrison abovesaid, John Hopper, of Carp-Sheals, Thomas Readshaw, of Paddomsack, Michael Ward, of Shotley-field, Cuthbert Ward, of Black-Hedley, Ralph Iley, of
dmundbyers, Richard Johnson, of Sunderland, and Foster, of the same; where they did mutually take an oath of secrecy not to discover their design, which was to rise in rebellion against the present government, and to destroy the present parliament, which had made a law against liberty of conscience, and to murder all bishops, deans and chapters, and all ministers of the church, and to break all organs in pieces, to destroy the common prayer-books and to pull down all churches, and farther to kill the gentry that should either opp
them, or not join with them in their design; that they intended first to fall upon Durham, to seize any m
ine that might be there, or money in any treasurer's hands, and to plunder the town. They did boast
any thousands of Anabaptists and Independents that were to join with them in the nation, with whom they had daily correspondence by letters and messengers, upon which employment the said informant hath been divers times sent to divers persons; and he heard them lately say, that some Papists were lately come into their party, and they did not doubt of their real intention to join with them in their design; that they have already in their hands some provision of arms, and do expect great proportion both of arms and ammunition from Lewis Frost abovesaid, who hath undertaken to provide for them. And he further saith, that for divers months by past it was resolved amongst them, to rise on the 25th of this instant March, but they did lately agree to defer the execution of their design for a month longer, till they see what the parliament would do concerning indulgence to tender consciences, and toleration of their party, and withal, by putting off their rising, they would be much stronger by many that would come to their party daily. And this informant saith, that he knows to depose what he hath said, because he was one of their party, and was re-baptised by the abovesaid John Ward, and was with them at most of their meetings, and did take the abovesaid oath of secrecy, but being pricked in my conscience at the horror of such a bloody design, he could have no rest nor quietness in his mind, till he had discovered the same.
Sam. Davison, Cuth. Carr, Tho Fetherstone, Rich. Neile, justices of the peace.
Among the Harleian Manuscripts in the British Museum.
.
The mines were so rich in this country in the time of king Charles I. that he made a grant to George duke of Buckingham, of the mines of silver, or of lead mixed with silver, in or near Muggleswicke, alias Mugglesley, in the county palatine of the bishopric of Duresme, and within the compass of ten miles from Muggleswicke aforesaid for twenty-one years
Rym. Foed. tom. xviii. p. 90. Ann. 1625. 1 k. Cha. I.
.
The parishes of MUGGLESWICK, EDMUNDBIERS, and HUNSTANWORTH, stretching along the banks of Derwent river, form the extreme lands of the county of Durham in that part. By the Boldon Book it appears that Alan Bruntop held the manor of Edmundbiers by forest service; and in bishop Hatfield's Survey it is stated to be the possession of the priory of Durham, from which time it has been connected with Muggleswick: Bishop Beaumont granted a moiety of the vill to the convent, and the other moiety they derived from various grants, as appears by the several licences to acquire in mortmain, and confirmations among the rolls of bishop Bury and other prelates. Here is a straggling village scattered round the skirts of a green: The church, though rectorial
Edmundbires.
Alanus Bruntop tenet Edmundbires, pro servitio suo in foresta sicut in carta quam inde habet continetur.
Boldon Buke.
Edmundbires.
Prior Dunolm. tenet villam de Edmundbires, quond'm Alani Bruntop per servic. suum in soresta, sicut contin. in carta ipsius Alani.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Edmundbyers rectory,
in the deanry of Chester.—Conv. Durh. prop.—Dean and chapter patr.—Dedicated to St Edmund.—Clear yearly val. 24l. 11s. 8d.—Tenths 13s. 1½d.—Proc. cp. 4s. 6d.—Synod 2s.
RECTORS.
R. de Kirkeby, 1275
Laurence, 1333
John de Bamburgh, 1348
Joh. de Seham, 1357
Thomas de Gatoril, 1392, p. m. Seham
Tho. Annesley
Will. Hyndley, al's Lamesley, 1399, p. m. Annesley
Will. de Malteby, 1401
Joh. de Hexham, 1401, p. res. Malteby
Hen. Hinton, 1402, p. res. Hexham
Rob. Aukland, 1411, p.m. Hinton
Rob. Baker, 1419, p. m. Aukland
Rich. Walworth, 1421
Will. Denton, 1456
John Woldhave, 1468, p. res. Denton
Will. Fabayne, 1504, p. m. Woldhave
Rob. Spragane, 1508,
res. Fabayne
John Foster, 17 Dec. 1557
Tho. Benson, cl. 6 Feb. 1670
Joh. Greenwell, A. B. 20 Mar. 1575, p. m. Benson
Mark Leonard, A. B. 22 Jun. 1609, p. m. Greenwell
Mich. Walton, A. M. 21
l. 1628, p. res. Leonard
Joh. Durie, A. M. 2 Jul
9, p. m. Walton
Franc. Foster, cl. 4 Oct.
p. m. Durie
Joh. Durie, 1661, p. m. Foster
Chr. Smith, A. M. 21 Nov. 1684, p. m. Durie
Franc. Hunter, A. M. 27 Sep. 1735, p. m. Smith
Tho. Coulthard, A. M. (Scotic) 1743, p. m. Hunter
Will. Stephenson, A. M.
Randal's MSS.
 
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State of population from 1660 to 1679
 
 
 
from 1760 to 1769
 
 
 
☞ The author regrets that these tables are obliged to be left blanks; no intreaty or interest, and nothing but a heavy pecuniary gratuity, could influence the guardians of these small parishes to indulge him and the public.
, a very mean edifice; the chancel still more deplorable, supported on stilts or short buttresses, and not sufficiently lighted; the whole building only sixty-four feet long and twenty-four wide: The incumbents house new and handsome, with good offices. Birden-hope, a considerable rivulet, washes the skirts of this place, and where Feldon-beck runs into it at a little distance, are the lead mills belonging to the Blacket family. The whole of this parish consists of about twenty farmholds, all of leasehold tenure under the dean and chapter. The aspect of the country is meagre and without shelter; and the cattle and sheep are of a very inferior kind. Agriculture is discouraged by the various disadvantages of situation, for all the lime is supplied from the banks of Were near Stanhope, and to be brought over the intervening desert, in bad roads, with much labour. The lead works employ the inhabitants, and bring in some foreign money, or the country would become desolate.
HUNSTANWORTH, the next adjoining parish towards the west, was the estate of Robert Corbet in ancient time, and by him and Sibilla his wife given to the hospital of Kepier. After the dissolution the manor, together with the right of presentation to the church, came into lay hands, and is now the property of the family of ORD, descendants of the late chief baron of Scotland, who was temporal chancellor of this county palatine
Hunstanworth.
Robertus Corbet tenet Hunstanworth, pro servitio suo in soresta, sicut in carta quam inde habet continetur.
Hospitale S. Egidii tenet ibid'm juxta divisam Walteri de Bolebec quasdam assart. & pastur. ad incrementa pecorum.—
Boldon Buke.
Hunstanworth curacy.
—Hosp. of Kepier prop.—* * * * Ord,
esq
patron.
A chapel in the deanry of Chester, not being in charge pays no first fruits or tenths, only procurations when the bishop visits.—Cert. val. 10l.—Proc. ep. 3s. 4d.—Real. val. 30l.
CURATES.
Ric. de Baldock, 1322
Rich. Stephenson, 1577
Tho. Becke, 1645
Jo
n Forest, 15 Jan. 1667
And. Rudd, 21 Jun. 1696
Tho. Jones
And. Naughley, A. M. 1724
Tho. Hudson, cl. pres. by Rob. Ord,
esq
chief bar. of his maj. exch. in Scotland, 21 Sep. 1758
Randal's MSS.
From the parish register.
27 Jan. 1645. This day the great storme brack, which had begun eight weeks before.
25 June, 1678. Bur. Ann wise of John Robinson, John Ritson an infant, and Ann daughter of Robert Egleston, killed by a thunder-bolt, 23 June.
4 Nov. 1709. Ann daughter of James Colling, who was eighteen years of age, and never chewed bread; of stature not above a three years old child, the thickest part of her arms and legs not exceeding the thickness of a man's thumb.
Muggleswick, Edmundbiers, and Ebchester book of rates 5l. 15s. 11d. — Val. of lands 1155l. 17s. 9d.
Grey
s MSS.
Land tax at 4s. in the pound.
 
 
County rates at 6s. 8d.
Edmundbyers
5
10
0
0
5
2¼
Hunstanworth
8
19
8
0
8
6
Muggleswick
14
8
1
0
13
4½
Registered estates, Ra. Fuester 16l.
Mann's MSS.
In the time of bishop Nevill the master and brethren granted a lease of the vill of Hunstanworth, in which the boundaries are described.—
Cursitors Rolls.—Rudd's MSS.
 
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1760 to 1779
 
 
 
.—The chapel was under repairs when we visited it.
All the banks of Derwent river down to Ebchester are beautiful; and the traveller, turning his back on Muggleswick, finds new objects of pleasure attend his steps. Allans-ford has some wild and romantic wooded scenes, which surround the pleasant little inn by the bridge; and the landscape which opens to the view, as we descend from Medomsley on the Whickham road, is scarce to be equalled: All the northern shore of Derwent is beautifully mingled with wood-lands, which, in irregular figures, intersect and variegate a rich cultivated country, gently bending towards the river; the hanging woods of Gibside rising on lofty hills, and sweeping swiftly to the brink of the stream, oppose their nobler aspect on the southern shore, decorated with elegant buildings, among which the Column of Liberty is best distinguished; beyond these you view the banks of Tyne, with Benwell, and a vast tract of Northumberland, terminated by the lofty mountains of Cheviot.
At SHOTLEY BRIDGE is a small village, hanging on the banks of the river: On the northern shore is a pleasant mansion belonging to Dr Andrews, in a beautiful retirement. On the southern banks, and elevated situation, stands SNOWSGREEN, the seat of John Leaton,
esq
We also passed BENFIELDSIDE, famous for one of the first Quaker meeting-houses in England, where the Devil, in much wrath, appeared to snatch the key which was to imprison him for ever
See an account of this apparition in
Turner upon Providence.
. From Shotley bridge to Ebchester a pleasant ride, scarce three miles, through a cultivated tract, commanding a prospect of the Northumberland boundary, finely fringed and intersected with wood-lands.
EBCHESTER is a small irregular village, scattered on the edge of a steep declivity; the church, with a few cottages, lie within the limits of the Roman station. Here, it is said, St Ebba, daughter of Ethelfrid king of Northumberland, built upon the banks of Derwent, a monastery, before the year of Christ 660, which was afterwards destroyed by the Danes
Tanner's Notitia, p. 110, Cressy's Ch. Hist. 18 lib. ch. 14.
: Not the least trace of such an edifice is to be discovered in this age. Ebchester church
Ebchester curacy.
—Dedicated to St Ebba.—Sherburn hosp. prop. & patr.—In the deanry of Chester.— Cert. val. 16l. 7s. 5d.—Proc. ep. 2s. 4d.
CURATES.
Joh. Same, 1501
Clem. Bell, oc. 26 Sep. 1554
Giles Widows, 1576
Geo. Wrightson, pr. 8 Aug. 1586, p. res. Widows
M. Wrightson, cl. 19 Aug. 1626, p. res. G. Wrightson
Reg. Steedman, cl. 1680
Chr. Collinson, p. m. Steedman
Jonath. Jefferson, cl. 1736, p. m. Collinson.
Randal's MSS.
Ex vita Ebbe. Sancta Ebba construxit monasterium feminarum apud Ebchester juxta ripam Derventonis fluminis eiq. ex nomine suo vocabul. indidit ex dono fratris sui Oswini.—
Bibl. Cotton Julius
2.
II.
Vol. ii. Dugd. Mon. Prioratus de Coldingham, &c. p. 1051, Ex Hist. MS. in bibl. Bodl. v. 4. Jur. lib. 22. ca. 3.
 
Bap.
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Bur.
State of population for the last twenty years
160
29
48
Burials in the last year 8.—Computed number of inhabitants 240.
is superior to those last visited, but yet mean; the nave is thirty-two feet in length and twenty in width, and the chancel twenty-six feet by eighteen; in order to accommodate the parishioners, the chancel is obliged to be stalled up to the altar rails. Bishop Pudsey, when he founded Sherburn hospital near the city of Durham, among other possessions endowed it with lands at Ebchester, then the place of an hermitage, which, from the sanctity of St Ebba, and retirement of the situation on the borders of the forests, was chose as the seat of severity and religious exercise
Et super Derwentam fluvium, qui forestam nostram dividit a vicinis Ebchester locum (viz.) Anachoritarum, ad animalia fratrum infirmorum usibus ibi nutrienda, et ad eorum pastores ibidem procurandos, licentiam dedimus de sartis proficiendis unam carucatam terrae arabilis, quae octies viginti acras tantum in se contineat.—
Vide Ordinationem sive fundat. dom. de Sherb.
. Bishop Fordham, in 1384, granted free-warren here to the master and brethren of the said hospital
Vide Sherburn hosp.
. King David II. of Scotland, in his unfortunate expedition, entered the county of Durham at Ebchester, A. D. 1346; perhaps led that way by the great Roman road, which we may suppose was in good preservation in those days.
There is not the least doubt the Romans had a considerable station here
Horsley's Brit. Rom. p. 287, 398.
Several Roman antiquities have been found here, which are taken notice of by Dr Hunter in the Philosophical Transactions, No 278. One of these is a tall altar, but no visible inscription upon it. Another is said to be a man in a Roman dress, upon a gravestone near the church door. The image is very obscure, nor do I see how it can now be discerned, whether male or female, for there is no inscription at all, and the features are quite gone. There have been two dolphins, one on each side the image, which is somewhat peculiar. When I viewed it, the small figure at the top appeared like a pine-apple, or perhaps a bunch of ears of corn, and that on the side of the image seemed designed for a wreath. I doubt not but it has been sepulchral, and that the image was intended to represent the person deceased.
When the ancients erected their own tombs in their life time, they often left the inscriptions, and sometimes their essigies, to be cut by their relations or friends after their decease. So Gorius
Gor. Monument. libert. &c. Liv. Aug. p. 20.
, in his description of a large funeral vault, lately discovered near Rome, has given us the draught of a marble coffin, with a bust of the deceased person cut upon the side, but only a round ball for the head, which doubtless was designed to have been afterwards finished. And upon another there is a whole human figure finished except the head, which is left in the same manner with the former. And in several of the niches made in the side of the monument, which contained two urns, the inscription is cut over one only, and that part of the stone which is placed over the other is empty, the person being then living for whom that urn was designed.
HAVE
This in Camden is placed among the Lanchester inscriptions, but it is plain, from Dr Hunter's account, that it was found at Ebchester. It was first in the doctor's own possession, and is in the library at Durham: It has been a sepulchral monument, and
HAVE
is for
AVE,
as in Gruter,
Have Meletina suavissima.
The custom of thus saluting, as it were, the dead, or taking their last farewell of them, is very well known, and it may seem almost needless to produce any instances of it. Thus
Aeneas
bids eternal adieu to
Pallas:
"Salve aeternum mihi, maxume Palla
"Aeternumque vale."
"Ave atque vale."
AEN. xi. 97. CATULLUS.
Thus also
Achilles
salutes his dead friend
Patroclus:
.
Hom. II. ψ v. 19.
I shall not insist on the
novissima verba, ter vocati,
&c. but old
Priam
's words spoken with reference to this custom are so moving, that I must beg leave to transcribe them
"Sic, O, sic positum adfati discedite corpus."
AENEID. ii. 644.
There is another stone of a like figure which probably has stood beside it, but there never has been any letters upon it.
Deo Vitiri Maximus votum solvit.
This according to the account in Camden, was also found in this place. It is a small altar erected to the local god
Vitires,
to whom we find a good number of altars inscribed. The letter
A
having no transverse is included in
M
at the beginning of the third line, and the
M
and
V
are connected as usual: The letters are meanly cut. On one side of the altar is a boar, and a toad on the other. It may deserve to be considered, why these noxious creatures should be represented on altars: Whether it might be, that they who erected the altars were much molested with them, and addrest to the deities to be delivered from them.
Tis well known that the ancients used to address to different deities for different benefits, and ascribe names to them suited to the favours which they imagined they received from them. Thus Apollo is said to have been called
by the Greeks for destroying mice,
in their language signifying a mouse: And as this country might anciently have been infested both with boars and toads, the inhabitants might apply to this god
Vitires
on that account. And since it was customary with the Romans to adopt into their worship the deities of those nations which they conquered, this
Maximus
might for that reason erect an altar to the god
Vitires,
and cut the figures of these two animals upon it.
VVNB OCEM VIT
This fragment is in the outside of a garden wall at the end of the town. I take it to have been a piece of an altar. It is difficult to make
Numinibus Oceani
of it, or to account for it if it be read so: Possibly the
Vit
in the last line may have been part of
vitam
that is
Ob vitam servatam
or some such thing.
Parcite caerulei vos saltem numina ponti,
Infestumque mihi sit satis esse Jovem.
OVID. TRIST. lib. i. cl.
We are also told in Camden, that an urn was found here of a very uncommon shape, near a yard high, and not above seven inches wide, with a little cup in the heart of it, perhaps for an oblation of tears, or of wine and milk, such as the Romans used at the burying of their dead.
Several stones of the centurial kind have been found here. One was discovered a few days before I came there, and is very clear and distinct, having been erected by the fifth cohort of some legion; most likely of the
Legio sexta victrix.
There is another centurial stone, which I have represented at large, in order to shew that these stones were generally like what masons call
through stones,
or however that they were very long, and went a great way into the wall, twice or thrice as far as the other facing stones. Sometimes they are as this, in the form of a parallelopepid, and sometimes of a pyramidal. I can make nothing out of the letters which appear on this.
There are four other centurial stones found here, the two first and finest of them are in the front of a house near the door, but not a visible letter upon them. The next is in the end of a house, and whether the cross within be designed for an
χ, cohors decima,
or only ornamental, I cannot be certain. The last with No 4 upon it, was before the door of a dwelling-house: The single stroke at last is to me unintelligible; it may be part of an
L,
for
Legionis.
So great a number of these sort of inscriptions make it probable that this sort was built by the legionary cohorts, upon which occasion these stones, as usual, were inserted in the face of the ramparts, or the inscriptions cut out upon them.
Minervae Julius Gnenius Actarius cohortis quartae Brittonum Antoniniae votum solvit libentissime merito.
Mr Horsley has placed this amongst the inscriptions and sculptures of Northumberland, and says it was of Mr Warburton's collection, and is now in the library at Durham. From whence it came, or where it was found, he does not certainly know.—Rom. Britan. Observ. 233. But Dr Hunter tells us it was taken out of the corner of a barn at Ebchester, by the direction of Dr Montague, late dean of Durham, to be preserved in the library at Durham. Mr Horsley says, I can't find that this stone has ever been published before, tho' it certainly has been curious when perfect. It has been plainly the face of an altar, and not only the capital and base, but part of the plane itself is also demolished; for a line or more has been broken off the top, and two or three letters at least from every line on the left side.
Actarius
was an officer who used to provide corn for the forces.
There are the remains of two piers in the river Derwent, supposed by some to be part of a Roman bridge; but the present bridge near Ebchester being constructed on piers with a platform of wood, indicates that the first mentioned are much more modern than the time of the Romans, and were forsaken for a more commodious passage.
Extract of a letter from Mr John Warburton, to Mr Gale.
It is strange there should be but four great Roman roads recorded, when there are such numbers of them; and more that the greatest of them all should want a name, viz. that which comes from the Roman wall near Dunbrytton frith in Scotland, to Rochester in Northumberland, where
Antoninus
begins his first journey, and from thence continues its course by Corbridge, Ebchester, Lanchester, Binchester, Piere
bridge, Caterick, Aldbrough, and I believe might thence be traced directly forward through London to Dover, and this without intersering with any of the four great roads. It is well if Higden, or whoever was the first describer of those ways, was not mistaken in his placing the Watling street. The course he has taken for it seems far too short and out of the way, and I rather agree with Talbot, who thinks that
Antoninus's
second journey was along it, viz. from the west end of the Picts wall to Southampton, which I think much more probable, as it enters the country on Gathertey moor,
&c.—
Gale's MSS.
Extract of another letter from Mr Warburten to Mr Gale.
I have read your essay towards a recovery of the four great Roman ways over and over, with greater pleasure than I ever read any thing in my life, and am fully convinced that the course you have taken for those ancient roads are perfectly right, excepting that you lose the stem of the Ermin street upon Gatherley moor, and follow only two branches of it that go directly to Tinmouth and Boulness, the two extremes of the Pict's wall, while the main street proceeds northward almost in a streight line and uninterrupted ridge from Piercebridge, close by a small village called
Denton,
where there are many remains of antiquity, and from thence continues its course by
Bolam, Houghton, St Helens Auckland,
and soon after crosses the
Were
to
Binchester, (Vinovium)
where there are to be seen the vestigia of a Roman fort, several altars, and in the possession of Far
er Wren,
esq
the lord of the soil, a great number of Roman coins dug up there. From this place its course is generally over moorish ground to
Lanchester,
and six miles further to
Ebchester,
where it crosses the river Derwent, and enters Northumberland. But before I leave
Ebchester,
which is inferior to no place I have mentioned for antiquities, I cannot but acquaint you that I look upon it to have been the
Vindomora
of
Antoninus,
and not at Wall's-end, where that station has hitherto been fixed, since it exactly answers the distance between
Corstopitum
and
Vinovium,
the 2d and 4th stations in the first iter, viz. nine miles from the first of them and nineteen from the latter, and this in a direct line along one of of the most intire regular and large ways I ever saw, the ridge being for the most part two yards in height, full eight yards broad, and all paved with stone, that it is at present as even as if new laid; whereas from Constapitum, or Corbridge, to Wall's-end, the 3d station in the first iter, it is twenty miles directly cast, and from thence back to Vinovium, the 4th station twenty-five miles to the westward, so that we are carried eighteen miles about upon a road that hath no appearance of a military way, except just where it touches the Pict's wall, and hath the river Tyne to pass in a part where it never could be crossed without boats, which are difficulties I think the Romans would never subject themselves to.
[Printed in the sixth vol. of Lel. Itin. published by Mr Tho. Hearn, at Oxford, in 1711, page 93.]
, although Camden, in his edition of the Britannia of 1594, doth not notice it: The traces of the vallum are yet apparent, though cut in some places by buildings, so as to render it impossible to take the exact dimensions, the square being about one hundred and sixty paces, as we could compute, on the side next to the river, running along the brink of a steep declivity: Also many curious pieces of antiquity have been discovered here, as set forth in the notes: Some since the learned antiquaries there mentioned visited the place, particularly three inscriptions, which the reverend Mr Jefferson, for their preservation, caused to be fixed in the wall of the curacy house.
In the wall of another house is the following inscription:
And in 1784, by the washing of the flood in the banks of Derwent, this altar was discovered, now
in the possession of H. Swinburne,
esq
It is two feet six inches high, and thirteen inches thick; the characters well cut and mostly distinct
See Gent. Mag. Sup. 1784.
In the first iter of Antonine's Itinerary; the distances of the stations in the county of Durham are thus laid down, including the next stations south and north in Northumberland and Yorkshire: —
A Bremeneo.
Richester,—
Corstopitum.
M. P. xx. Corbridge.—
Vindomora,
M. P. ix. Ebchester.—
Vinovia,
M. P. xix. Binchester.—
Cataractom,
M. P. xxii. Cataract.
Vindomora
nine miles distant from
Corstopitum,
according to the Itinerary, and this next station at Ebchester is distant from Corbridge about seven computed miles, and near ten measured, as was found on actual mensuration with a chain. This, therefore, is no doubt
Vindomora:
And here again, as in almost all cases, the Roman miles fall short in number of our English measured, almost one in ten, which confirms the Roman to be horizontal. The people told me of two or three load of burnt ashes found here, with some large bones and teeth. The Roman inscriptions and monuments that have been found here may be seen in the collection.
[In the year 1728, a countryman with his plough fixed upon somewhat he could not overturn, he opened the earth, and found an oblong square stone, which by more assistance was removed, finding under it a cavity, composed of six erected stones, the interstices walled up, and therein an urn about eight inches in height
What is included within the brackets are Dr Hunter's MS. observations on the margin of the Britannia, penes Leo, Hartley.
.] Dr Gale seems to think that
Vindolana
and
Vindolande
in Ravennas are the same with
Vindomora
in the Itinerary; and then from the affinity of the sound concludes
Dolande
to be it: But I believe the name is
Dotland,
and this is rather too near
Corstopitum,
even though we should prefer the copy that is five miles for the distance instead of nine. But to wave these smaller matters, it is certain that
Vindomora
and
Vindolana
are two different places, and that
Dotland
can neither be one nor the other, for this is quite off the military way, and there is no appearance of Roman antiquity here. As to Camden's opinion of
Vindomora
being Wall's-end, and
Vindobola
being the same, it is needless to confute it, or to add any thing more on this head.
[At a Roman mile and a half distance to the south, some years ago was discovered, the foundation of a square watch tower, about 6 or 8 yards on the west side of the military way; the stones were cemented with lime
Dr Hunter, in another of his MS. observations in the year 1727, says,
a little south of the south-west angle of the ramparts, I discovered part of the aqueduct that brought water to the baths; it was composed of two erected flat stones cemented into two niches, cut in one laid flat for the bottom. I am apt to think the ditch of the fortress has been supplied by another aqueduct.
.] About five computed and six measured miles and a half more along the same military way, which is still very certain and often very grand, bring us to the large and remarkable station at Lanchester, which is not mentioned in this iter; the true reasons of which silence I take to be these, that it is too nigh the last station to finish the day's march here, and that it belongs to another iter, which I shall endeavour to shew in its proper place does begin at this station, &c.
. We paid attention to the great Roman road which leads to this place from the southward, and found it remarkably perfect where the new inclosures of common lands had not taken place. We traced it for a considerable distance, so as to enable us strictly to ascertain the dimensions: It is formed in three distinct parts, with four ditches; a center road, probably made for carriages and cavalry, forty-two feet in width, with a narrow road on each side for foot passengers, twelve feet wide: As we had not observed this form in any of the roads in Northumberland, or on the line of the wall, it made us more attentive to ascertain the matter. In the vicinity of large cities our modern roads have the like conveniencies; in this northern situation the circumstance here increases our ideas of the Roman power and possession, when such a station as Ebchester required such conveniencies, either for the ease of passengers, or to accommodate troops who should line the roads and guard the forage or the baggage of armies.
RYTON CHURCH
Crossing the river Derwent, we enter the parish of
RYTON,
bounded towards Northumberland by the rivers Tyne and Chopwell. The village of Ryton is pleasantly situated about eight miles from Newcastle on the banks of the river Tyne, where the vale widens into extensive and fertile fields: It is inhabited by opulent families, and contains many handsome new buildings. The church stands at the west end of the village, in a spacious yard; is a stone building of ashler work, covered with lead, having a tower ornamented with a stone spire, the whole height of which is one hundred and eight feet
This church is rectorial, lies in the deanry of Chester, and is dedicated to the Holy Cross.—The bishop of Durham is patron.—There is an excellent rectory-house, built by James Fynney, rector, with all suitable offices: He was instituted in 1706, and died in 1726.
King's books 42l. 10s. 10d.—Tenths 4l. 5s. 1d.—Proc. ep. 18s.—Synod & proc. 2s.—Proc. arch. 3s.— Real value 300l.
RECTORS.
Will. de Marghe Mag. 1254
Alan de Esyngwald, 1300
Mag. John de Botheby
Test. q'd cum. int. Dom. Hugonem de Monte alto mag'ram hospitalis de Kypier ex p'te una & mag'r'm Joh'em de Botheby rectorem eccl'ie de Ryton ex alt'a, tam sup' juraq. possessione p'cipiendi quemdam annuum redditum duar. marcar in medietate de'cie Garbar de d'nicis venerabilis p'ris d'ni epi Dunelm. infra p'ochiam de Ryton juxta, &c.
E. orig. pen. Tho. Gyll, arm.
, 1312
Nic. Gategang, 5 Sep. 1334
Will. de Olby, 12 Jan. 1342, p. m. Gategang
John de Wyndlinbourgh, 1378
Mag. Tho. de Gretham, cl.
Joh's Dei gra. &c. concessimus, &c. dil'co cli'co n'ro mag'ro Tho. de Gretham p'sone eccl. de Ryton, &c. q'd ipi imp'p'm he'ant aqueductionem p' fistulam subterraneam in solo n'ro e fonte voc. Strotewell &c.
Rot. Fordham, s
h.
5.
in dorso.
1382
Joh. de Burgh, cl. 1402
Bishop Skirlaw confirmed the aqueduct. Rot. Skirlaw, No 100.
Rob. Moore, 1407
Joh. de Nepotus, cap.
Joh. Wynname, A. B. 9 Dec. 1497
Rob. Davell, LL. D.
Anth. Salvayne, S. T. B. 28 Apr. 1558, p. m. Davell
Will. Garnet, A. B. 27 Dec. 1558, p. res. Salvayn
Joh. Bowde, S. T. P. 14 Feb. 1577, p. m. Garnet
Franc. Bunney, A. M. 11 Sep. 1578, p. res. Bowde
Will. James, A. M. Apr. 1617, p. m. Bunney
John Weld, an intruder
Ra. Blakiston, A. M. 10 Dec. 1660, p. m. James
Will. Cave, S. T. P. 1676, p. m. Blakiston
Malinus Sorsby, 1679, p. res. Cave
James Finney, S. T. P. 1706, p. m. Sorsby
Tho. Secker, A. M. 17 Jun. 1727, p. m. Finney
Rob. Stillingfleet, A. M. 1733, p. res. Secker
Joh. Floyd, A. M. 1738, p. res. Stillingfleet
Joh. Rotheram, A. M. 25 Feb. 1766, p. m. Floyd
Hon. Rich. Byron, A. M. 4 Nov. 1769, p. res. Rotheram, presented to Houghton
Book of rates 17l. 15s. 2d.—Value of lands, &c. 2418l. 18s. 2d.—
Grey's MSS.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population from 1660 to 1679
1560
195
576
from 1760 to 1779
2755
782
2577
Increase
1195
587
2001
Burials in the last year 93.—Computed number of inhabitants 2790.
Bishop's rent 45l. 5s.—For mines 6l. 13s. 4d.—Tenths 4l. 5s. 1d.
This parish pays towards the land tax when it is 4s. in the pound, and the county rates after the rate of 6s. 8d. in the pound, as follows:
 
Land tax.
 
County rates.
Crawcrook
25
4
8½
 
0
10
6
Chopwell
42
14
0
 
0
15
8¾
Ryton
67
18
1
 
1
2
4¼
Ryton wood side
71
9
9
 
0
7
0
Winlaton lordship
105
1
9
 
2
17
4
 
 
 
 
Stella
0
4
2
Registered estates.
Ryton wood side, G. Errington,
esq
45l.—Lord Widdrington 44l.—Dicto Stella 160l.— Winlaton, Mrs Eliz. Langdale, 100l.—
Mann's MSS.
MONUMENTAL INSCRIPTIONS, &c.
In the chancel, on a brass plate.
Francis Bunny
He was the third son of Rich. Bu
y, of Newland, near Wakefield,
esq
by his wise B
dge
S
stwo
d.
, born May 8, 1543, began to preach God's word Nov. 1, 1567.
Inducted into a prebend at Durham the 9th of May, 1572, made archdeacon of Northumberland, 1573, Octob. 20, and the 11th Sep. 1578, made rector of Ryton; having buried here his four sons, and his daughter at York, hastneth to Heaven after them, and triumphing for hope of immortality, saith thus:
My bark now having won ye haven,
I fear no stormy seas,
God is my hope, my home is Heaven,
My Life is Happy Ease.
This hope, this home, this life most sweet
Whoso will seek to win,
Must bid adieu to all delights,
The four roots of sin.
Died 16th of April, 1617.
. On the east front of the tower, in relief, is a large figure of St George subduing the dragon, which lies at his feet; of this sculpture the village tradition, like most others, is rediculous. This is a regular building, with an aile on each side of the nave, formed by two well proportioned columns, one of which is round, the other octagonal, supporting pointed arches, the groins of which are ornamented with sculptures of heads, &c. The nave is twenty-six paces in length, and with the ailes fourteen paces wide: The tower stands upon an arch supported by heavy clustered pillars, and there are three narrow windows to the west: The chancel is separated from the nave, by an arch rising from brackets or corbles in the side walls: The front of the south aile was rebuilt in 1627, and is lighted by two modern sashed windows, and a small window to the east; the north aile is lighted by two side windows, and one to the east; there is no north door: The font is a large ancient stone bason: There is a gallery appropriated to the workmen called Crawley's Crew, employed in the great iron manufactory
Sir Ambrose Crawley, knight, draper and alderman of London, who was sheriff in 1706, and died on the 7th of October, 1713. He established great iron works at Swalwell, Winlaton, &c.
, particularly mentioned in the sequel: The pulpit is placed against the east pillar, in the south row: A large stall is inclosed on the south side for the owners of Chopwell, and another for the house of Stella; the whole nave is decently kept. You ascend by three steps into the chancel, which is ten paces long and seven wide, stalled with oak on each side, and inclosed by a screen, carved in open foliage work; it is lighted by a large window of five lights to the east, and six small windows to the south: Within the altar rails is the recumbent essigy of an ecclesiastic cut in black and white shell'd marble, such as is won in the bed of the river Were, near Stanhope, in this county; the hands elevated, clasping a book, and the feet resting on a lion. The vestry room is neat and spacious.
There was a chantry in this church, dedicated to the blessed Virgin Mary; the founder or endowment, save what is mentioned in the notes, now unknown
The account of R. Eure, sheriff and esch.
A. D. 1425. Five shillings from the rent of one messuage and eighteen acres of land, called Saynt Maryland, lately given by the lord of Crawerook, to the altar of St Mary, in the church of Ryton, in mortmam, without the bishop's licence.
1498. John Saunder of Ryton, Sep 13, in the 4th of Rich. translation, surrendered one cottage with its appurtenances, and three acres of land with one plot of land belonging to the same cottage, to Will. Clark, chaplain to St Mary's chantry, and his successors, for the maintenance of a light to be continually burning before the image of the blessed Mary.—
Rot. B. Fax. Xo
11.
in dorso.
.
There is a very large tumulus near the north wall of the church-yard, planted with trees, whence it is difficult to take the dimensions of its base; it is about twenty perpendicular feet in height, and a beautiful object from the opposite side of Tyne. One somewhat similar, in this parish, near Bradley hall, was opened some little time ago, and therein found a square cavity, composed of stones set on edge, which enclosed the remains and ashes of the interred, but nothing was discovered to denote the age or nation to which it belonged.
Though Ryton is seated in a valley, yet it commands a most beautiful prospect to the north and east. The banks of Tyne rise gradually to a considerable distance, exhibiting as fine a cultivated scene as the north of England produces. The town of Newburn lies almost on the brink of the river; to the west the villas of Wylam and Cross-house; on the distant landscapes are scattered the towns of Walbottle, Throckley, Heddon-on-the-Wall, and Horseley, with the villa of East Newburn: Further eastward down the vale, Benwell cottage, the plantations above Fenham, and the heights of Newcastle town moor.
In the reign of king Edward I. the 18th of October, 1297, Ryton was burnt by the Scots, whilst the English forces were dishonourably conducted by Warren and Cressengham
Abercromby's Hist. of Scotland.
. In August, 1640, it was the scene of panic and confusion, when Lesley led a handful of Scotchmen to the banks of Tyne, and obliged lord Conway to evacuate Newcastle, and retire with his whole force to Durham
For a full account of this transaction, vide View of Northumb. vol. ii. p. 448.
.
Certain lands in Ryton called
Greenside,
were the estate of John Swinburn, who forfeited the same by treason, being one of the earl of Northumberland's partizans in the year 1571. Bishop Barnes granted out the same in the year 1580, to Cuthbert Carnaby,
esq
to hold by copy of court roll
Dated 4 Oct. 22 Eliz.—
Randal's MSS.
.
Ryton manor belonging to the bishop, and subordinate to Chester, furnishes little historic matter; the ancient services are set forth in the extracts from Boldon Book and bishop Hatfield's Survey: By the latter it appears that the prior of Brenkburn held two ox-gangs of lands here, and a fishery in the river
Comp't est p' inq. cap. apud Gatesheved coram W. de Mordon, vic. Dun. die veneris prox. ante fest. nativ. S'ci Joh'is Bapte ao p. d'ni Ric'i (Bury). Epi Dun. undecimo, q'd a t'pe d'ni Anth. (Beke) quond. epi. D. & a t'pe a quo non extat memoria, solebat esse una piscaria vocat le Blackhough juxta Ryton p'tinens epo Dun. ex p'te occidentali pontis de Tyne apud Novum Castrum. Et est ibid. una p. voc. Cromwell ejus
'cia p's p'tnet d'no epo. Et una p. voc. Quickham dranwater juxta Quickham p'tinens dicto d'no epo. Et est un. Yare voc. le Rutyare eum tribus capitibus juxta Quickham p'tin. dicto d'no epo. & solebat extendere usq. ad medium
ile aque de Tyne a t'pe quo non extat memoria. Et est unum Yare voc. le Maleyare p'tin. d'co d'no e. jux'a le Redhough & sol. extendere usq ad medium file aque p'd. Et ex p'te orientali pont. p'der est un. Yare voc. le Kyrkeyare subtus man'ium d'ni ep. apud Gatesheved p'tin. eid. d'no E. & solebat ex'e
ere usq. ad t'ciam p'tem aque pred. Et est ibid. unam p. voc. Toulershell p'tin eid. d'no E. Et est
m. Yare voc. le Helpiryare subtus le p'k ap. Gatesheved p'tin. eid. d'no ep. et sol. extendere usq ad t'ciam p'tem aque p'dce. Et est ibid. un. p. voc. Turnwater subtus le Frergose p'tmens eid'm d'no epo rem. ut supra.
Extracts from the register books.—Lib. k. fo.
159.
Attorn. epi Dun. cont. Selby & al. Information to ascertain the right of common upon Ryton moor, belonging to the bishop, and upon Winlaton common adjoining thereto; whereupon it was ordered, that the right should be tried at law; but it doth not appear any further proceedings were had therein.
Tempest & al. con. Att. ep'i & al's. 16 Sep. 1638, p. 497. Division of Ryton moor. This common has been very large, containing many hundred acres, as appears by the several allotments made to the several persons interested therein, who all hold the same by copy of court roll, at the yearly rent of 4d. p' acre, payable to the lord bishop of Durham.
The mines are reserved to the bishop, with the several liberties of winning, working, and leading thereof, paying damages for spoil of ground.
Twenty acres of this common were allotted to the tenant of the bishop's mill at Ryton, towards keeping horses for fetching corn.
Ritona.
Homines de Ritona tenent villam de Riton ad firm. cum dominio & redditu assiso & molendino & operationibus & cum instaurament unius carucae & j herearij & xx celdr. de avena ad mensuram episcopi, & cum piscaris, & reddunt xiiij libras, & faciunt ladas sicut illi de Quykham & quadrigant cum Craucrok unum tenellum vini.
Punderus tenet v acras & habet travas sicut alii & reddit xxx gallinas & cc ova.—Villani de eadem xxiiij gallinas & cc ova.—
Boldon Buke.
Ryton.
Liberi tenentes.
Will's fil. Thomae Gategang tenet j mes. & lx acr. terrae quond'm Will's Ughtred & red. xiij s. iiij d.
Johannes Stepyng tenet j mes. & xxj acr. terrae quond'm Gilberti Forster & red. xiij s. iiij d.
Rector ecclesiae de Riton tenet xiij acr. terrae vocat. le parson-med. ut gleba ecclesiae suae & nihil reddit, ut dicitur.
Moniales de Novo Castro super Tynam tenent maner. de
Stelley,
ibid. & red. per ann. xiij s. iiij d.
Robertus de Horsley tenet medietat villae de
Crawcrok,
per servic. forin. & red. x s.—tenet j toft & xl acr. terrae vocat.
Bradley
& red. ad term. S. Cuthb. in Sept. j d.
Prior de Brenkburn tenet ibid. ij bovat. terrae & piscar. in aqua, de Elemos. d'ni nihil datur.
Terrae bond cum parcel. dominicar.
Johannes Knout tenet j mes. & vj acr. terrae quarum j acr. & dim. terr. domin. & iij acr. & dim. de terr. bond ij s. iiij d.
Johannes Taillour & xxvj alii tenentes tenent terras bond. cum parcel. dominicar. & xxv. mes.
Johannes Newcome, tenet, &c. Wappesley & red. xviij d.—Rector ecclesiae de Riton, &c. j mes. & xiij ac. ter. ibid. & red. per ann. x s. viiij d.—Will. Robynson, Ricardus Skyll capellanus altaris B. Mariae, Johannes Bell & xxxiij alij tenent, &c.
Tenentes tenent inter se commune forg. contin. in long. xl pedes & in lat. xx pedes & redd. iiij d.—Molend aquat. ibid. cum x s. de tolnet cervis. & red. per ann. cvj s. viij d.—Cariant inter se j ton. vini & faciunt opera ad molend. & stagnum consueta.
Robertus Newcomen tenet terr. vocat. Punderland contin. v acr. terrae, & habet de tenentibus sicut alij de consuetudine officii & reddit ad festa natalis d'ni & paschae xxx gallin.
Johannes Haynyng tenet piscar. in aqua de Tyne ibid. & red. per ann. xl s.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Skirlaw.
Rob'tus Paterson, collector ep'i de Ryton.
Ruthal.
Joh's Richardson, forestarius ep'i de Ryton & Milbourne flash p' vita cum seod. 57 s. p' pat. epi.
Pilkington.
Controversia inter Jacobum Pilkington ep'm & Joh'em Swinburne de Chopwell ar. de Bundis, manerij & vast. epi de Ryton, & manerij & vast. de Chopwell. Et arbitriu' fact. de eis p' Thomam Gargrave mil. & Henricum Savile ar. 10 Oct. 5 Eliz. Rot. cl. m. No 11.
James.
Joh'es Widowes pater & fil. custodes parci epi de Frankland, Middlewood, & Ryton, p' vitis sub. feod.—22 Mar. 11 Ja. I. 1613.—
Mickleton's MSS.
E. copyhold b. marked B. p.
393.
1402. Pl. halm. ap. Chestr. &c. Joh. de Wyndale, cl. cepit de d'no unum puteum carbonum maritimor. infra camp. de Ryton de novo.
Ibid. marked C. p.
550.
1413. Halm. de Chestr. &c. Ordina'co o'ium tenentium c'oi consenc. ordinatum cor. R. de Eure chi. sen'lo cum consilio Rob'ti More R'coris eccl. ib. q'd ubi oi'a t're & p'ta modo tenent. sc'am usus foreste de cet'o teneant. secundum usus rurales, q'd capi dividant in tres partes, viz. un. d. p' bladis secu'dis & p' warect
allow ground.
, p' qua ordinac'oe p'd Rob. R'r dedit p'dcis ten. de elemoz. sua xl solidos.
.
CHOPWELL, in this parish, the estate of lord Cowper, was the inheritance of the Claverings, and before them of the Swinburns
An exemplification of an information in the chancery at Durham, by the attorney general against John Swinburne, for working coals in Ryton common, with inter, and depos. thereon.—Also an award of arbitrators, touching the bounds of Chopwell and Ryton, on the above information, 5th of q. Eliz.
Cursitors Rolls.—Rudd's MSS.
. In the reign of king James, John Lyons,
esq
receiver of the king's revenues in these parts, being a defaulter in his accounts to the crown, an extent issued against his estate in Chopwell, called the East wood, Moor close, Deane, and the Carrs
King's rememb. office ven. xxvjo die Jan. 1640, order for restitution.
.
A moiety of the vill of CRAWCROOK was the estate of the Horsleys at the time of taking bishop Hatfield's Survey
Craucrok.
Craucrok est ad sirmam cum villanis & dominio, & cum instauramento unius carucae & j hercarij, & reddit preter assisum redditum xj marc. & dimid. & reddit de assiso redditu iiij marc. & dimid. Et j vaccam
metrid. & iiij celdr. brasij & totidem sa
inae & totidem avenae & j castelman & quad
cum R
ton
o
ellum vini.—
Boldon Buke.
, held of the bishop by fealty and ten shillings rent: They also held certain lands, called
Bradley, in socage;
of these Richard de Horsley died seised in the twenty-seventh year of that prelate: And in the succeeding inquisition taken on the death of Robert de Horsley, in the fourth year of bishop Skirlaw, the lands of Bradley are described by the names of
Bradley field cum le B
ye.
Crawcrook is now divided into a multitude of properties, and Bradley, by a late purchase, is become the estate of J. Simpson,
esq
.
STELLA, seated on the banks of Tyne, after the dissolution of the Benedictine nunnery of St Bartholomew in Newcastle, to which it appertained, became the estate of the Tempests
Inq. p. m. Nich. Tempest, mil. & baron, 1626, & Tho. Tempest, bar. 1642, in which it is described maner, de Stellingley, al
s vocat. Stelley, &c.
, in which family it continued, till by the marriage of the heirefs of that house, it came to the possession of William late lord Widdrington, who forfeited his life estate therein in 1715, but the inheritance remained unattainted to Henry Widdrington,
esq
his eldest son
12o die Sep. ao 2o Caroli regis compertum post mortem Nicholai Tempest de Stelley in com. Dunelm. milit. & baronet, quod fuit feissatus de & in manerio de Stellingley al's voc. Stelley, situat. stan. & existen. prope aquam de Tyne in parochia de Ryton, in ep'tu Dunelm. cum suis juribus membris & pertinenciis universis. Ac de omnibus terris arabilibus pratis pascius pasturis boscis subboscis communis piscationib's mineris carbonum infra solum & fundum ibidem comoditatibus, proficuis emolumentis & aliis advantagiis eidem manerio de Stellingley al's Stelley pertinentibus vel ullo modo spectantibus nuper parcello possessionum domus five monasterij S. Bartholomei infra villam Novi Castri super Tynam dissoluti.
Bourne's Hist. Newcastle, p. 166.
Stella.
Here is a magnificent house and garden: The village is now chiefly inhabited by coalworkers, and hath staiths in it. There are many other villages on the sides of this river, such as Blaiden, Lemington, Swalwell, Delaval, Redheugh, &c. Several of them have staiths belonging to them, such are the staiths of Lady Clavering, Sir Henry Liddell, bart. Richard Ridley,
esq
George
iddell,
esq
Edward Wortley Montague,
esq
Geo. Bowes,
esq
George Pitt,
esq
Geo. Malliber,
esq
Mr John Simpson, and Mr Joseph Ledger.
An inscription on a mural monument, north wall.
Sepulturae consecratum Nicholai Tempest de Stella, militis & baronetti (qui obijt Ano D'n MDCXXV. aetatis suae LXXIII.) et Isabellae uxoris suae charissimae, filiae Gulielmi Lambton de Lambton armigeri: Quae quatuor filios, et totidem filias, illi peperit, et obiit Ano D'n. MDCXXIII. aetatis suae LXXI. Illa per tot annos praemoriens, quot illi praenatus erat. E liberis eorum sunt superstites Thomas, Henricus, Isabella, uxor Bertrami Bulmer de Tyrlesden, militis.—Jana relicta Thomae Chaitor de Butrobee, armig
ri.— Et Margareta, uxor Gilberti Errington de Ponteland, armiger.—Parentibus optimis et suavissimis Thomas Tempest baronettus, eorum filius, observantiae et amoris ergo, sibique et suis mortalitatis memor, hoc posuit.
Filias extruxit tumulum, pia sacra parentum.
Lambton erat matris, Stella domus que patris.
Miles erat Ni'olas Tempest, pater et baronettus
Isabella suit mater; amor pares.
Octo illis liberi sexu aequo: Septuaginta
Ultro vixerunt, et cecidere pares.
.
WINLATON, in bishop Hatfield's Survey, is set forth to be the possession of lord Nevil, which he held by forest service and 20l. rent: The Menevylls held under this family the manor of Thornley in Winlayton, at forty shillings rent; and also another tenement stiled a hamlet of Winlayton, called Huntley-sleigh, at two shillings rent
Wynlaton & Berleia.
Wynlactona & Berleia sunt ad firmam cum dominio & villanis cum instauramento & reddunt xvl. Et
alcant prata ij diebus unusquis
que
villanus cum homine & tunc habent corrodium. & hevant saenum & quadri
ant j die.
Marescum, pratum, & nemus sunt in manu episcopi.
Molendinum reddit v marc. & dimid.
Vide Quykham, Hatfield's Survey.
Boldon Buke,
Inq. p. m. Agnes widow of J. Menvyll, 16 Hatfield, cor. W. de Claxton esc.
. The Silksworths held considerable property here in bishop Hatfield's time
Inq. p. m. Will. de Silksworth, 23 bishop Hatfield, cor. W. de Menevylle esc.
Inq. p. m. Ra. de Nevylle, 23 bishop Hatfield, and John de Nevylle chiv. Winlayton manor, 1 bishop Skirlaw, cor. Will. del Bowes vic. & esc.
; as also the family of Ferys, whose property bore the names of Berley and Spen, by three shillings rent to John de Nevill, and suit at three courts in Winlayton
Inq. p. m. Cath. ux. Will. de Fery, 25 bishop Hatfield, cor. Will. de Menevylle vic.
. In 1424, Ralph earl of Westmoreland, by will devised this manor to his son Edward de Nevil, and the heirs male of his body
E Madox. form. p. 432. Datum in castro meo de Raby, A. D. MCCCCXXIIII. & m. Oct. die xviij.
: By the inquisition taken at his death, it appears he had aliened the manor to trustees, with other estates; and in the description of Winlayton are the words
cummim'is carbonum de Fu
ay pute & Morlay pute, &c
Inq. p. m. 20 bishop Langley.
Ind. betw. bishop Bury and John de Nevill lord of Raby, touching his services in war and peace, on condition to hold the manor of Winlaton discharged
de vingt livers de rent de quel rent le dit man' est charge,
&c.
.
About the year 1690, that great patron of manufactory and trade, Sir Ambrose Crawley, fixed upon this situation to establish those works which have employed multitudes of people, and caused an influx of wealth since that happy aera, to this country: He first sat down at Sunderland by the sea, where, in its infancy, the project was nursed for five or six years, but the situation of this place and its environs, both in regard to coals and water, induced him to transplant his Cyclopean colony hither. The town of Winlayton stands on a high ridge of country, inclining on the east, north, and south towards the rivers Tyne and Derwent. Before Sir Ambrose settled his people here, the place consisted of a few deserted cottages, and now contains about fifteen hundred inhabitants, chiefly smiths. The works carried on in this town are various; making nails is the chief branch, but there is an eye of jealousy on enquiry, and the traveller can reap little information as to the various articles manufactured, or quantity produced. The buildings are regular, and calculated for convenience and not shew: The streets are well paved. A commodious chapel was built in the year 1705, which will receive three hundred people at divine service, and a stipend provided for a chaplain
The chapel is said to be erected on the scite of an old chapel, dedicated to St Ann, destroyed in the rebellion of the earl of Westmoreland: Human bones have been repeatedly dug up, when there was occasion to break the soil to any depth.
Chaplains
Edm. Lodge, cl. 1705.— * * * * Watson—* * * * Mean, 1706—* * * * Battle— * * * Johns or Eyons—Rob. Wright, cl. ob. 1768—Thomas Spooner, cl. Feb. 1768— Rev. T. Carr, cl.
An account of the re-building of Winlaton chapel was printed in London in 1711, to which is prefixed a letter of lord Crewe's, dated from Durham castle, 23d of September, 1710, setting forth, that Mr Jonathan Story had been very instrumental in that work. The narrative is addressed to Henry lord Hyde, by Mr Story, and comprehends an oration delivered by him to the people on occasion of an attempt to found a dissenting meeting-house at Winlaton, where he represents were settled in the manufactory above two thousand souls. Mr Story, though not of the church, in his oration first expatiated on the excellency of religion in general; second, the advantage it hath in the minds of men; third, the excellency of the Christian religion in particular; and lastly, full thoughts on the established church of England; and he recapitulates the circumstances attending the year 1641, and the succeeding times, with much warmth.—The first place for p
ing i
which was licenced 1704-5, was the hall belonging to Sir William Blacket, bart. In June the manufacturers chose a minister of their own, and contributed one half farthing in the shilling for all wages they should receive, for his support, which made up a considerable sum, and being augmented with ten pounds a year given by the proprietors of the works, made a comfortable subsistance for their clergyman, besides paying all other incident charges of the chapel; at length a certain stipend of fifty pounds a year was fixed for the minister, and the before-mentioned allowance became sufficient to yield above twenty pounds a year for a school. A subscription was next set on foot for building the chapel, which was begun the 17th of April, 1705; on the 23d of August following it was fit to receive the congregation; and in January following it was fully finished and beautified, regularly pewed, and a large gallery at the west end, with a turret and clock: Daily service is performed therein.
. Winlayton mill, which in the last century was used for corn, and had a few cottages near it, now is surrounded with a considerable village, where the iron works are also carried on. It is in a pleasant situation, on the banks of Derwent, with an open prospect towards the east; the number of people employed there may amount to about three hundred of all ages: A stone in the mill dam shews the propitious year of its conversion, 1691. The chief work carried on there is making and grinding edge tools, slitting bars of iron into long narrow pieces, proper for making nails, &c. Steel is also blistered here, and file-making constitutes a considerable branch of the business, together with a diversity of other articles.
As we are speaking of the manufactory, for the sake of connection, we will advance to SWALWELL, part of which town is in the parish of Whickham; it is seated on the banks of Derwent, near its influx with the Tyne: The principal part of the inhabitants are employed in iron works, but in the most massive articles, as ship anchors; they make hoes and shovels, and cast pots, kettles, and other domestic utensils.— Our obliging correspondent, from whom we received much information touching this country, observes to us, that the anchor-smith's shop strikes the spectator with a pleasing astonishment, where the images conceived by the inimitable poet are justly represented:
—"Alii ventosis follibus auras
"Accipiunt, redduntque; alii stridentia tingunt
"Aera lacu: Gemit impositis incudibus antrum.
"Illi inter sese, multavi brachia tollunt
"In numerum; versantque tenaci forcipe massam."
VIRG. AEN.
lib.
8. 449,
&c.
Here a warehouse is kept for such articles as suit the country demand; the principal storehouses are at Greenwich, and in Thames-street, London. Three ships, appertaining to the company, called the Ambrose, Theodosia, and Elizabeth, are constantly employed in conveying their goods from the north thither. The workmen in Swalwell are still more numerous than at Winlayton. The villages of High and Low Team, situate to the south-east of Swalwell, are chiefly peopled by the manufacturers employed in the same works: There several of the large articles are made, and manufacturing saws constitutes a principal branch; the plates are not beat, but produced by fusion in a mould.
Pedigree of the several Families of
CLAVERING
of Calleley, Tilmouth, Axwell, and Berrington, as deduced by Sir
WILLIAM DUGDALE,
and continued to the present Time.
(VOL. II. PAGE 443.)
Eustachius, a noble Norman, had two sons, (See Mon. Angl. vol. II. p. 592,—819.)
Serlo de Burgh came into England with the Conqueror, and built Knaresborough Castle.—Died without issue.
John called Monoculus, from having but one eye, heir to Serlo.
Pagan.
William.
Eustace died in the Welsh wars, 3d King Hen. II. Vir magnus et Grandaeus.
Beatrix, only d. and h. of lvo de Vescy.—2d wife.
William de Vescy, cut out of his mother's belly, after her death.
Burga, sister of Robt. de Stuteville, Lord of Knaresborough.
Eustace de Vescy,
..... d. of William King, of Scotland.
William de Vescy.
Agnes, d. of Count Ferres.
Matilda.
Cecilia.
Agnes, eldest daugh. of Will. Fitz Neil, Baron of Halton, and sist. and h. to her bro. Wm.—1st wife.
Richard, Baron of Halton, and Constable of Chester, in right of his mother.
Albreda, d. and h. of Robt. de Lizures. After mar. to William Fitz Williams.
John, who took the furn. of Lacy, together with the arms, was constable of Chelster.— Ob. 25th Hen. II.
Henry de Lacy left an only daughter.
...... married to the Earl of Lancaster, on whom she settled all her lands, and from them the Lacys, Earls of Lincoln (now extinct) descended.
Roger, 1st Baron of Warkworth, by the gift of King Hen. II.
Eleanor, d. and coh. of Henry of Essex, Baron of Raleigh.
Robert founded Langley monastery, in Norf. King Rich. gave him Eure, in Bucks, was sher. of Norfolk, Suffolk, and Northumb.
Margt. only d. & h. to Wm. de Caisneto (vulgo Cheney) relict of Hugh de Cresey.
John, Baron of Warkworth and Clavering, in Ess.
Ada, d. and h. of ...... Baliol.
Hugh de Eure, from whom the Lords Eure descended.
Roger, Baron of Warkworth and Clavering. Ob. 33d Hen. III.
........ ......
Robert, Baron of Warkworth and Clavering, died 3d Edw. II. having had summons to parliament, from 23d Edw. I. to 4th Edw. II.—Had great possessions in Norfolk, Suffolk, Bucks, Northamptonshire, Yorkshire, Durham, and Northumberland.
Margery de la Zouch.
Sir John Clavering, Knt. had this surname given by King Edw. I. from the place of his estate in Essex.—Summoned to parliament from 28th Edw. II. to 5th Edw. III.—Died at his manor of Aynhoin, Northamptonshire (s. p. male) 1332, bur. in Langley abbey.—Settled his manors of Newburn, Warkworth, Rothbury, and Corbridge, in the crown, which were given to Hen. Percy and his heirs, by Edw. III.—The manors of Aynho and Horford, he gave to Ralph Neville and his heirs, who, at last, inherited them (his brother Edmund dying s. p.) whereby this family were deprived of these large inheritances, which otherwise would have descended to them.
Hawise, dau. of Robert Tibitot.
Tho. de Audley, 1st husband.
Eve, only d. and h. mar. 4 times.
Ralph de Neville 2d husband.
Ralph.
Robert.
Ralph de Elfford, 3d husband.
John.
Robert.
Edmund.
Robert Benhall, Knt. 4th husband, ob. s. p.
Edmund.
Sir Alexander.
Robert.
Henry.
Roger left an only daugh. Margery, who died unm.
Sir Allan Clavering, Knt. inherited no part of his brother's estates, but what he had independant of him, given by his father, which were Calleley and Yetlington.—Died 2d King Edw. III.
Isabel, eld d. and coh. to Wm. Riddel of Tilmouth, and who brought the estates of Duddo, Greenlaw, and Tilmouth, with other possessions, into the family.
William de Clavering died 20th Edw. III.
Matilda, died 26th Edward III.
Sir Robert Clavering, Knt. a soldier.—Ob. 17th Rich. II.
John Clavering bred a soldier, a knighted.—Died 4th Hen. VI.
Johanna, d. of Tho. Hetton.
Robert Clavering died 31st Hen. VI.
Elizabeth.
Robert Clavering died Edw. IV.
John Clavering died 2d Hen. VII.
Isabella, or Elizabeth ....... ..... .. after mar. ...... Gray.
Robert Clavering ob. 6th Dec. 10th Hen. VIII.
Joan, alias Jane, d. of ...... Reims of Shortflat, in Northumb.
John Clavering of Calleley, ob. 28th Hen. VIII. 1536.
Eliz. d. of ...... Fenwick, of Fenwick, in Northumb.
Rob. Clavering of Calleley, died 25th Eliz. 1583.
Ann, d. and coh. Sir Tho. Gray of Horton, in co. Northumb. Knt.
Robert Clavering, of Calleley, died 42d Elizabeth, 1600.
Mary, d. Sir Cuth. Collingwood, of Eslington, in Northumb. Knt.
Sir John Clavering, Knt. died in prison, for his loyalty to Cha. I. 22d Charles.
Anne, d. Sir Tho. Riddel, of Gateshead, Knt.
Sir Robert Clavering, a Col. in regt. in service of the king, and a knight banneret.—Died unm. (vita patris) 1643, Aet. 26.
John, a Rom. Cath. priest, and resigned his estate to his brother Ralph, reserving an annuity.—Aet. 46, in 1666.
Ralph Clavering, of Calleley, Aet. 44 in 1666.
Mary, d. Wm. Middleton, of Stokeld, in co. York,
Esq
John Clavering, of Calleley,
Esq
b. 1659.
Anne, 4th dau. of William, 2d Lord Widdrington.
John b. 13th Apr. 1688, died unmarried.
Wm. born 1689, d. unmar.
Robert b. 1690, unm.
Ralph b. 1695, m. 1st Aug. 1723, d. 1748.
Mary, d. Nich. Stapleton, alias Errington of Ponteland, & of Carleton in co. York.
Ralph-Peter, 3d son and h. b. 27th June, 1727, died at St. Omer's, in 1787, m. 3 wives.
1st Eliza. d. Jas. Egan,
Esq
d. 7th May, 1761, s. p.
2d Frances, d. John Lynch,
Esq
ob. 24th Nov. 1765, at Douay.
John-Aloyzius Clavering, born 22d July 1765, living 1794.
3d Mary, d. Edw. Walsh,
Esq
Ralph, ob. infant.
Edward.
Mary mar. Hen. Robinson,
Esq
a banker in London.
Lucy mar. John Stapleton, of Clintz,
Esq
Francis-Monica-Anne.
Ellen-Elizabeth, born 1783.
2 Johns both died infants.
Nicholas, a Rom. Ca. priest, 1764, 4th son.
Francis, 5th son.
Eleanor, d. ..... Lambton of Whitehall, in co. Durh. ob. s. p.
Joseph, 6th son died an infant.
Mary mar. Nich. Magrah, died July 1758, s. p.
Anne, abbess of English nuns at Pontoise near Paris.
Winefrid, a nun at Ghent, in Flanders.
Catharine died unmar. at Newc. about 1774.
Elizabeth died an infant.
Barbara, a nun at Bruges in Flanders.
John b. 1700, d. unm.
Mary b. 1692.
Anne m. Fra. Maire, of Hardwick, in co. Durh.
Esq
ob. s. p. 1783, Aet. 83.
Mary mar. Gerrard Salvyn, of Croxdale, in co. Durh.
Esq
Thomas and Peter.
Wm. Clavering, of Berrington, mar. Barbara, d. Hen. Lambton, of Lambton,
Esq
Eleanor, mar. John Thirlwell of Thirwell in Northumb.
Jane,
Mary.
Eliza. ob. s. p.
Robert, all died without issue.
William,
James,
Anne, m. Rob. Clavering of Tilmouth.
John was fellow of Eaton College, and Rector of Gamlingue, in co. Camb. had a son Thomas.
James Clavering, of Newc. and Axwell, in co. Durham.
Grace, d. and coh. of Rog. Nicholson of Newcastle mercht
John Clavering of Axwell,
Esq
Anne, d. Rob. Shafto, James.
Esq
of Newcastle.
James Clavering, of Axwell, created a Bart. 5th June, 1661. Bur. at Whickham.
Jane, d. and h. Chas. Maddison of Sutwellside, in co. Durham.—Had 13 children, two only survived.
John Clavering, of Whitehouse, died vita patris.
Dorothy, d. Hen. Saville, of Methley in co. York,
Esq
Jas. succeeded his grandf. as 2d Bart. died without leav. issue male.
Eliz d. Sir Wm. Middleton of Belsey, in Northumb. Bart.
A son died an infant.
Henry died 11th Aug. 1711, bur. at Lanchester.
A dau. mar. Nich. Fenwick of Newcastle
Esq
Sir John, 3d Bart.
Jane, d. Rob. Mallabar of Newc. mercht. d. 12th May, 1729.
John died an infant.
Jas. Clavering 4th Bart. died abroad, on his travels, in 1726, aet. 18, unm. when the title went to his uncle, Francis Clavering.
Alice
Ld. Winsor.
Eliz.
Ld. Dunkerron, son to Ld. Shelburne.
Fr. succeeded his neph. as 5th Bart. d. 31st Dec. 1738, s. p. & succeeded in title by Jas. Clavering of Greencroft.
Susan, d. of Mr. Sells, ob. s. p.
Sarah
Edw. Harrison.
Dorothy
Chas. Waite.
Anne
William Hauxley.
Eliza died unmarried.
James Clavering, of Greencroft, in co. Durham,
Esq
Jane, d. and coh. Benj. Ellison, of Newc. mercht.
James Clavering,
Esq
of Greencroft, succeeded as 6th Bart. on death of his cousin, Sir Francis Clavering of Axwell, in Dec. 1738. Bur. at Lanchester, 16th May, 1748.
Catharine, dau. Thos. Yorke, of Richmond, in co. York,
Esq
d. 29th Nov. 1723.
4 sons and two daughters, all died infants.
Sir Tho. Clavering, the 7th baronet, bap. 19th June, 1718. Memb. in parl. for co. Durh.—Living May 1794.
...... d. of Joshua Douglas, of Newcastle, Attorney at Law.
Geo. Clavering,
Esq
of Greencroft, bap. 10th Nov. 1719, mar. 3 wives.—Ob. 1793.
1. .... d. of Dr. Bromwell, of Rombaldkirk. Ob. s. p.
2. .... d. of Palmer, and widow of Sir John Pole, Bart.
Tho. Clavering, Esq.
..... a French Lady.
A son.
A daughter.
3. ... Ellison.
Sir John Clavering, K.B. bap. 31st Aug. 1722.—A maj. gen. and commander in chief in the East Indies, left several children now living.
.... d. of Ld. Delawar.
Elizabeth d. Lionel Vane, of Long Newton,
Esq
ob. 1746, s. p.
Benjamin, bap. 15th March, 1682.—Died an inf. 26th April, 1683.
Jane, mar. 12th Oct. 1707, to Tho. Liddel,
Esq
father to late Lord Ravensworth.
Elizabeth born 1684.
Anne died unmar. 14th Nov. 1750.
Alice married Geoffrey of Newcastle, 13th Oct. 1712.
Robert Clavering,
Jane, only d. and h. Toby Dudley, of Chopwell, in co. Durh.
Esq
Dudley Clavering, ob. s. p.
John Clavering of Chopwell.
Anne, 2d d. Sir. Hen. Thompson of Escrick, in co. York, Knt.
Dudley died an infant.
Mary mar. Will. Lord Cowper, High Chancellor of England.
Anne mar. Hen Liddel, 3d son Sir Hen. Liddle, Bart.
Elizab. 2d d. & coh. of Thomas Hardwick, of Potter Newton, in co. York,
Esq
ob. May 1704.
John Clavering, of Chopwell, memb. for Penryn in Cornwall.
Elizabeth.
Margaret.
Jane.
Emilia.
James was of Grays Inn, Lond. died unm.
John died at Hamburgh.
William Clavering, killed at the battle of Clavering Cross.
Robert Clavering,
........
Robert Clavering, from whom the Claverings of Learchild, in co. of ...... descended, and now thought to be extinct.
Ralph Clavering, seated at Tilmouth, in co. Durh.
Edward Clavering of Tilmouth.
Ralph Clavering of Tilmouth.
Robert Clavering of Tilmouth, was a capt. in the regt. of Sir Rob. Clavering, Knt. Banneret.
Anne, d. of Rob. Clavering of Calleley, and Mary Collingwood.
Robert Clavering of Tilmouth, married, but died without issue.
William Clavering, of Tilmouth,
Dorothy, d. of Rich. Selby,
Esq
mayor of Berwick
Robert was Bishop of Peterborough.
Mary, 2d d. of John Cook, a Spanish mercht.
Robt. Mary m. Rev. Fred. Wiliiams, preb. of Peterborough, 3d son of William-Peere Willams, Counsellor at Law.
Catharine.
Susannah, m. Rev. Will. Brown, a preb. of Peterborough.
Anne.
Wm. was a brave soldier, govern. of Dickey's Cove, in Africa, died unm.
Thomas Clavering was gov. of Norham Castle, and died s. p.
Thomas.
Robert.
Roger.
Robert de Eure, ancestor to the Eures of Axholm, in Lincolnshire.
Isabel, d. and coh. of Roger de Merley.
ARMS.—
Quarterly, Or and Gules, a bend sable.
CREST.—
Out of a ducal coronet, Or, a Demy Lion, issuant, azure.
CLAVERINGS OF BERRINGTON CONTINUED.
William Clavering, of Berrington,
Esq
6th son of Sir John Clavering, of Calleley, by Ann his wife, d. of Sir Thomas Riddell, of Gateshead, Knt.
Barbara, d. of Henry Lambton, of Lambton, in co. Dur.
Esq
1st, ....... Clavering, ob. s. p.
2d, .... ... Clavering, of Berrington,
Esq
.... dau. of ..... Widdrington, of Horsley, co. Northumb,
Esq
2d, Edward Clavering.
3d, ...... Clavering, mar. .... d. .... Blackett. Ob. s. p.
1st, William Clavering, of Berrington,
Esq
...... dau. of ..... Whittenham of Whittenham, c. Sanc.
Esq
wid. of ..... Dalton, of Thurnham,
Esq
1. John Clavering, ob. celebs.
3. Henry Clavering, living 1794.
4. William Clavering, Berrington,
Esq
living 1794.
2. Edward Clavering, of
...... d. of .... Lesley,
Esq
of Scotland.
.... a daughter. Ob. celebs
...... a daug. mar. .... Rogers.
.... a d. mar. ..... Young-husband, of Tugall,
Esq
Barbara living celebs, in Durham, ao. 1794.
After these works were brought to answer the proprietor's view, his benevolence dictated to him that it was necessary to institute a code of laws for the establishment of peace and good order; not only calculated for the profit and use of the master, but the ease, tranquillity, and happiness of the servant; those, after amendments and additions as cases and exigencies dictated, have become certain and established. To put those laws in execution, a court of arbitrators was constituted at Winlaton, to be holden every ten weeks, for hearing and determining cases among the workmen, to which all have an appeal. The fees are fixed beyond innovation, at a moderate rate. This institution has the most happy and extensive use, it quiets the differences of the people, protects their claims to justice in an easy and expeditious manner, preserves them from the expences and distress of common law, and the noisome miseries of a prison. As a further protection of civilization, to promote good manners, and inspire religious principles, schools are established at Winlaton, Winlaton mill, and Swalwell, for the sole benefit of the workmen's children, where they are instructed in reading, writing, and accounts. The poor and distressed were objects of the founder's solicitude; he appointed a surgeon for the relief of the whole body of workmen, by whose timely assistance many lives and limbs have been preserved to the public: When a workman is ill, he has money advanced by the agent; when superannuated or disabled, he has a weekly maintenance; and when he dies, his family is provided for.
What eulogium can be suitable to the benevolence here displayed, or panegyric express the virtues thus exercised! The exulting spirits of thousands daily breathe praises before Heaven, which no language can comprehend. Our correspondent adds,
It is in tears the country confess, none of this excellent family of the name of Crawley at present exist. Mrs Theodosia Crawley, relict of John Crawley,
esq
the last of the name, died on the 7th of May, 1782, aet. 88. There is no doubt her successors will tread in the same generous and benevolent steps.
Before we quit Swalwell, it is to be observed, that by bishop Hatfield's Survey it is noted, that the vill was then held by Will. Swalwells; and by various inquisitions, it appears it remained in that family till about the sixth year of bishop Langley, when Roger de Thornton acquired the same, by whose heiress it passed to the Lumleys, in the time of bishop Booth
Pardon of alienation to Sir John Lumley, lord Lumley, and Catharine his wife, by fine to Geo. Smith, and Thomas Kimraston, of a coal mine in Swalwell, Tugerfeld, and Lyngfeld in Whickham, 1 Aug. 1607
Cursito's Rolls.—Rudd's MSS.
Swalwels.
Terra de Swalwels reddit xvij s.
Willielmus filius Arnaldi pro quodam assarto de vj acris, j marc.—
Boldon-Buke.
Vide Quykham, Hatfield's Survey.
.
Opposite to Swalwell, on the northern banks of Derwent, situate on grounds inclining towards the south-east, and diversified by beautiful risings and irregular swells, lies AXWELL PARK, the seat of Sir Thomas Clavering, baronet, an elegant modern house of Payne's architecture, surrounded with a fine park, and groves of forest wood, disposed with that irregularity which constitutes true rural beauty, maintaining the countenance of nature with the simplest embellishments of art: The house is built of freestone, and placed on elevated ground, so as to command a fine prospect, and become a pleasing object in various points of view in the adjacent country. From its eminence the south front of the house commands a view of the country adjoining Whickham, and the rich wood-lands of Gibside; the east front a prospect of the busy Tyne, Benwell, Newcastle, Gateshead, and the shipping below the bridge; the new bridge of Swalwell of three arches, and the village on the front ground to the right. The old family house was called
Whitehouse,
and stood at the distance of half a mile to the westward of the present mansion, in a sequestered situation. The first of the Claverings whom we find seated here was John Clavering, the son of James Clavering, and grandson of Robert Clavering,
esq
who died in the twenty-fifth year of queen Elizabeth, 1582, whose next successor there was James Clavering,
esq
On the south wall of the body of Whickham church.
Memoria sacrum
Jacobus Clavering de Axwell
In Comitatu Dunelm. Barronettus
Ex antiquissima familia
Clavering de Caloley in
Comitatu Northumbr
e orta,
Quae eit a nobili Familia
Domini Clavering de Clavering
In comitatu Essexiae deducta
& D'na Jana Uxor eius cum Liberio corum hic jacent,
; created a baronet the 5th of June, 1661. —
See pedigree annexed.
AXWELL PARK
The Parish of
WHICKHAM.
The first account we have of the manor of Whickham is in the Boldon Book, where the bishop had xxxv villain tenants, each of whom held an oxgang of land, consisting of fifteen acres, at sixteen pence rent, exclusive of services, which were severe. Every villain wrought for the lord three days each week in the year, besides the labour of harvest and plowing; they were bound to erect a cottage forty feet long, and fifteen wide, every year, for the maintenance of the town, and carry and fetch from Durham and Bedlington, the bishop's baggage, &c. when required, with the allowance of the corrody whilst they wrought. They also paid nine shillings cornage rent, and provided a milch cow for the lord, and for every oxgang of land they found a hen and ten eggs, and served in the lord's fishery in Tyne. The headborough man, who is stiled
praepositus,
now called the greve, had twenty-four acres of land allotted to him in recompense for the duties of his office. The manor was then under firm with the villain service, mills, carts, barrows, fisheries, and twenty chalder of oats of the bishop's measure, rendering twenty-seven pounds, and performing certain services in carriage, for which there was an allowance of two pence for every horse. The punder had land assigned him, besides an acknowledgement from every tillage farm by the threave; and he provided the bishop with forty hens and three hundred eggs. In bishop Bury's time we find one Robert Bridock held some small parcels of land here, by homage and xs. rent at the bishop's exchequer
Inq. p. m. Ao 1o bishop Bury, cor. Sim. de Essh, vic. He held of the lord bishop in capite, twenty-six acres of waste land beyond Whickham wood near to Priesthill, by homage, &c. xs. at the exchequer. And five acres of meadow in Quickham meadows,
ten. de lumina
. B. Mariae de
uickham,
12d. rent. And also Priesthill, consisting of thirty acres of land in cap. of the manor of Ravenshelm, by the service of two arrows.
Inq. p. m. Will. Herring, 4 bishop Bury, cor. Sim. de Essh.
: And also Will. Herring
This parcell of land the convent of Durham acquired, for which they had licence. Rot. Fordham, sch. 10. No 13.
, other small parcels, by the service of a rose. In the fifth year of bishop Hatfield, Alan Gategang died seised of four acres of meadow in Whickham, held
in capite
by homage and fealty, and a pound of cumin; also lands called Jopsriding, near the river Tame, held also
in capite
by homage and fealty. Ralph Clerk, in the seventh year of the same prelate, died seised of seven acres of land in Whickham field, with a messuage, and one hundred acres in Whickham, held
in capite
by fealty and xs. rent
Quykham.
In Quykham sunt xxxv villani quorum unusquis
que
tenet j bovat. de xv acris & solebat reddere xvjd. & operati per totum annum iij diebus in Ebdomeda. Et praeterea iij porcationes in autumno cum familia domus excepta husewyva & quartam porcationem cum ij hominibus, & in operatione sua solebat falea
e prata & levare & quadrigare faenum, & metere & quadrigare totum Bladum, similiter in operatione sua & extra operationem suam arare de unaqua
que
caruca ij acras de averere & herciare & tunc semel habere corrodium, & in operatione sua facere unam domum long. xl pedum & latitud. xv pedum, & facere ladas & summagia sicut villani de Boldona; & quandocun
que
metebant Bladum, & falcabunt prata & faciebant porcationes solebant habere corrodium.
Praeterea solebant reddere jx s. de cornag. & j vaccam de metrid. & de una
que
bovat. j gallin. & x ova. Et in operatione sua solebant facere in piscarias Tina.
Prior de Brenkburn tenet ibid. ij bovat. & j piscariam de Elemos. episcopi.
Girardus praepositus tenet xxiiij acr. pro servitio praepositurae & illae xxiiij acr. ante eum solebant redd. iiijs.
Molendinum solebat redd. iii marc. piscariae iij marc.
Et dominium ij carrucar. erat tunc in manu episcopi. Nunc autem praedictum manerium de Quykham est ad firmam eam dominio, & villanis & molendino, & cum instauramento ij carucar. & ij hercarior. & xx celdrar. de avena de mensura episcopi, & cum piscarijs, & reddit xxvjli & facit ladas de Gatesheved us
que
Dunelm. & de Gatesheved us
que
Bedlyngton, & computantur in firma pro unoquo
que
equo ij d. & quadragint unum tonellum vini.
Punderus de Quykham tenet vj acras, & habet travas sicut alij, & reddit lx gallinas & ccc ova. Et xxxv villani xxxv gallinas & xxxvij ova.—
Boldon Buke.
Quykham.
Liberi Tenentes.
Petrus Graper tenet de jura uxoris suae j mes. & acr. terrae quo
d'm Will'i Freman per servic. forin. & red. vjs.
Haeredes Johan's Patirncoke, &c. red. j lib. peperis.—Will. Galeway, &c. viijs.—Marg. Gray &c. vjs. viijd.
Will's Swalwell tenet
villam de Swalwells
& solebat reddere per ann. per librum de Boldon xxixs. iiij d. modo redd. per annum xxviijs. viij d.—tenet j plac. pro le milnedame ibid. & redd. per ann. viij d.
Adam de Eshdall tenet j plac. de vasto, &c. xij d.
D'nus de Nevill tenet
villam de Wynlaton
per servic. forin. & red. per ann. xxli .
Haeredes Hugonis de Redheugh tenet
villam de Asshels
per servic forin. & red. xv s. iiij d.—j mes. & xxv acr. terrae ib.
villam de Lynes
per servic. forin. xviijs. viij d.—Situm molendini ibid. ij s.—
Maner. de Holynside
&c acr. terrae ibid. red. per ann. vj s. viij d.
Will's de Fulthorp miles tenet j acr. terrae juxta Freresyde & red. per ann. iij d.—xx acr. ibid. xiij d.— j claus. vocat. les toftes contin. xxx acr. terrae & red. per ann. xs.
Robertus de Lomely tenet dim. acr. quond'm Johannis Marmaduc & red. per ann. iiij d.
Will's Gilson tenet j molend. apud Creswelcrok & redd. per ann. xiij s.
Comes Northumbr. tenet maner. de Fugerhouse contin. c acr. terrae per estim. per cartam & servic. forin. & red. per ann. xs.
Idem Comes tenet j puteum carbonum ibid. & redd. per ann. xxvijli . xiij s. iiij d.
Tenentes tenent inter se molend. de Swalwells & piscar. ibid. cum tolnet cervis. & solebant reddere per ann. xxxviijli. modo reddunt per ann. xxli.
Agnes Fairhare sen. tenet dominic. mes. villae contin j acr. & dim. cum j toft. & redd ij s.
Terrae hond. cum dominic.
Walterus Thomson tenet ij mes. & ij bovat. terrae bond. hovat. contin. xv acr. terrae; & ij bovat. terrae domin. bovat. contin. jx acr. pro ij bond. praedict. redd. per ann. xvj s. jx d. q'ar & pro dictis ij bovat. terrae domin. iiij s. iiij d. ob. unde in toto xxj s. iiij d.
xxxvj alij tenentes tenent xl mes. & xxxiij bovat. terrae bond. & dimid. & xxx bovat. terrae domin. Et omnes isti bond. solv. de redd. bond. inter se ijd. ultra redd. praedict. ut per antiqu. rentale ijd. Et iidem bond. faciunt ladas de Gatesheved us
que
Dunolm. & us
que
Bedlyngton & habebunt allocation. pro equis ij d. & quadrigant unum tonellum vini. Praedicti bond. tenent inter se viij toft. aedificat. ultra xxxv mes. pariter bond. pro quib. nihil. — Et omnes praedicti bond. solent reddere per ann. pro qualibet bovat. xvj d & operari per totum annum per iij dies in qualibet ebdom praeter iiij septiman, festival. & facere in porcation. in autumno cum familia excepta houswyva & x praetera cum ij hominibus in opere suo per septimanam, falcare pratum, levare & quadrigare faenum metere & quadrigare totum Bladum in operatione sua praedicta; & extra dicta opera arare de unaquaq. carucat. ij acr. de avererth & herciare & semel tum habebit corrodium; & in operatione sua per j dies in Ebdom, facere unam domum long. xl pedum & latitud. xv. pedum & facere ladas & summag. sicut villani de Boldon, & quando metunt & salcant prata & faciunt porcation habebunt corrodium, & solv. pro cornag. xx s. et solv. j vac. de Metrich, & soleb. sacere iij porcation. in aqua de Tyne, & solebant solvere xx celdr. aven. ad mensur. d'ni.
Cotag.
Johannes Hawyk tenet ij cotag. & vj acr. terrae & red. pro operib. vj d. ad term. mart. & v s. de redd.
Johannes Gallin & v alij tenent vj cotag. & xij acr. terrae, reddendo singuli iij s. iij d.
Iidem tenentes tenent inter se j pec. terrae vocat. Fremantall xxx acr. xs.—vj acr. vocat. punderland iiij s. reddunt ad festam natal. d'ni & paschae lx gallin. & xxxviij ova. tenent, &c. commun. Furnum x s—Solvunt ad festa natalis d'ni & paschae xxxv gall. & xxxviiij ova.
Pratum.
Omnes tenentes villae tenent inter se quoddam pratum vocat. Grenelonyng. red. iiij s. viij d.— xl acr. praepositi red. per acr. ij s. iiij d.—Johannes Martyne iij acr. Robertesmedowe viij s.—Will's Eire iiij acr. Eiresmedowe & alii.
Iidem tenentes tenent inter se pratum dominic. contin. xxx acr. prati & sol't reddere per ann. per ant. rent. vjli .
xxxvj tenentes tenent xj mes. viij ten. ij plac. & clxxv acr. terrae reddendo cert. redd. per ann.
Hatfield's Survey.
Whickham.
Infra quod manerium sunt nulli distinc'ones villar. sed omnes vocantur sub titulo de Whickham hoc manerium est infra dimissionem epi cum mineris carbonum ib'm, & curia tenetur p' Firmarios vel p'sonas p' ipsos ad hoc nominat. & stylus cur. est cur. venerabiliu' viror. Gilb'ti Gerard, &c. Firma
ior, &c. Le Greive hic sumptus solvit.—
Mickleton's MSS.
Inq. p. m. Ra. Clark, 7 bishop Hatfield, cor. R. de Bowes.—Also held in capite of the church of the Blessed Mary in Quickham, an acre of meadow in Quickham for finding a lamp to burn daily in that church: Also held in cap. of the lady of Ravenshelm, a messuage called Feugerhouse and sixty acres of land in Ravensworth, by fealty and two arrows
pennat. pennis pavonum.
. Will. Freeman also held a parcel of land there, in the sixteenth year of bishop Hatfield. By the survey taken at the last-mentioned prelate's command, we find that Peter Graper then held, in right of his wife, a messuage and fourscore acres of land that were Freeman's: The earl of Northumberland held the manor of Fugerhouse, containing one hundred acres by estimation, by foreign service and xs. rent; also one coal work there, rendering xxvij l. xiij s. iiij d. Swalwell mill, with its duties and the fishery then brought in xxl. but had formerly produced xxxviij l. The services of the villain tenants do not differ much from those set out in the Boldon Book, but are thereby much illustrated, as amongst various other matters the work in Tyne is stated, and the xx chalders of oats before mentioned in the firm, are set forth as part of the bond rent. In bishop Skirlaw's time, the family of Claxton had acquired lands there
Inq. p. m. Tho. de Claxton, 14 Skirlaw, cor. R. Conyers, chiv. esc.
Roger Thornton, in bishop Langley's time, gave three acres of meadow and three acres of land in Whickham, to the chantry of the chapel of St Thomas on Tyne bridge. 6 Langley.
De fidelitate capta Will'i Birtley, sched. 18 Bury
Q'd Joh'es de Birtley defunctus tenuit de nob. in c. &c. unam acr. terrae tres acr. parti & sex solit. redditus & redditum unius libre pip'is cum p'tin. in Quickham, Gateshe
ed & Lumley, &c.—
Randall's MSS.
Bishop Bury granted a lease of coal mines here to Sir Thomas Gray, and John Pulhore, parson of Whickham, for 12 years, 500 marks rent.—
Cursitors Rolls.— Rudd's MSS.
Fordham, sch. 10, No 3, in dorso.
Joh. d. gr. Sciatis q'd concessimus dilco s'vienti n'ro Rob. Stertelk offic. forestarij n'ri de Quyckham hend, &c. quamdiu se bene & fidel'r gesserit, p'cipiend o'ia scod. & p'sicua eid. officio p'tin. In cujus, &c. Dat. 2 Sep. 1388.—
Randal's MSS.
. In the twenty-fourth year of bishop Langley, on the death of Roger Thornton, it appeared he held, for term of life, certain waste lands called Fugerfeld, and also thirty acres called Rydding, by the grant of John duke of Bedford, which reverted to the duke on his death.
The town of Whickham hangs on the brow of a hill, with an open eastern aspect: The chief buildings, which are many of them modern and handsome, stand on the southern side, on the brink of a steep descent, so as to overlook the rest of the town: The prospect is remarkably beautiful, comprehending part of Gateshead, with the church, the tower of St Nicholas in Newcastle, the castle, and much of the town on the margin of the river; to the right, Gateshead fell, patched with innumerable cottages, quarries, wind mills, and other objects; to the left, the pleasant villages of Ryton, Benwell, Elswick, Newburn, Lemmington, and other places before noted, whilst through the deep vale the river Tyne
Along the banks of the river are arranged the staiths for the reception of coals, and delivering them into
eels or lighters, to carry down to the shipping, called Blaydon staiths, Dunstan staiths, &c.
The north fields of Whickham were divided the
Charles II by agreement of the proprietors: And the award was confirmed by decree in the
of Durham, the 3d of July, 1667. for quieting the proprietors in their possessions it was thought expedient to have an order for an injunction, which was obtained the 18th of June, 1678. By the award the highways were set out, and ordered to be repaired by the inhabitants of the township.—
From the information of Mr Jasper Harrison.
In the town of Whickham there is a stratum of burnt earth, consisting chiefly of clay and stone: According to tradition, the king's army had their tents in some land called the church land, below the church, and in other fields contiguous; that the Scots under the command of Lesley, at that time lay at Newburn; and upon his crossing the river for the purpose of attacking the king's army, the latter fled with such precipitation, that they left their tents and set fire to them, this fire communicated to a small seam of coal at day, and many years burnt with great fury; at night the flames were seen from different parts of the village and grounds adjoining: The fire is now out, and the burnt earth and stones are commonly used for the highways.
Ibid.
forms a fine canal of seven or eight miles in extent, and flows with solemn majesty, as if conscious of the wealth that loads its bosom: Prior's description of Thames is very applicable,
"Serene yet strong, majestic yet sedate,
"Swift without violence, without terror great."
The church of Whickham shews much antiquity in its architecture, and very little beauty: There are two side ailes, separated from the center by three short round pillars, and four circular arches, without any mouldings, the capitals of the columns square, with a rose or knot at the corners; the whole nave ill lighted, and the west end crouded with galleries, thrown into four angles; the pulpit is in the center, and faces the south. The chancel is divided from the nave by stalls, has lately been repaired and sashed
Whickham Rectory.
In the deanry of Chester,—dedicated to St Mary.
The parish is bounded on the north by the river Tyne, on the east by the river Tame, on the west by the river Derwent, and southward by the chapelry of Lamesley.
King's b. 20l. 8s. 11½d.—Yearly tenths 2l. 0s. 10
/4d. proc. ep. 13s.—Arch. synod 2s.—Proc. arch. 4s.— Real value 340l.
RECTORS.
Hugo, 1287
Rob. de Baldoks, 1313
Joh. de Windesore
Tho. de Thwenge, 1344
Joh. de Pulhore, 8 Aug. 1346
Rich. Rotore, 1360, p. res. Pulhore
Mag'r Will Tart, 1399
Edw. Prestwick, p. m. Tart
Joh. Kent, 1444
Will. Nicholson, 1462
Rich. —, 1470
Tho Bartram, 1474
Alex. Skinner, 1483
Rob. Walker, cl.
Joh. More, 1513
Anth. Bellasys, utr. jur. d'r 4 May, 1533. p. m. More
Nich. Williamson, cl. 1540, p. res. Bellasys
Claud Rent, cl. 30 Sep. 1558
John Fernysyde, preacher of God's word 20 March, 1575
J. Allenson, cl.
Hen. Ewbank, A. M. 5 Sep, 1620
Rob. Brooke, A. M. 23 Dec. 1628, p. m. Ewbanke
Tho. Wood, A M. 2 July, 1635
Nich. Stote, an intruder
Tho. Mason, A. M. 12 July, 1671
Will. Hartwell, S. T. P. 1681, p. m. Mason
Will. Graham, S. T. P. 1685, p. res. Hartwell
Rob. Thomlinson, S. T. P. 1712, p. m. Graham
Will. Williamson, D D. 1 April, 1748, p. m. Thomlinson
Will. Radley, A. M. 1763, p. m Williamson
John Wibbersley, A. M 1768, p. res. Radley
— Greville, p. m. Wibbersley
On the north wall of the chancel.
Under This monument Lies the Body of Rob. Thomlinson, D. D. Prebendary of St Paul's, Lond. Rector of this Parish 36 Years, and sometime Lecturer of St Nicholas in Newcastle upon Tine. He died the 24 of March, 1747, aged 79 Years Reader if thou wouldst know the Character of ye Deceased Learn it from the following Account of his Pious Munificence And Charity. Dr Thomlinson built and endowed ye Charity School for this Parish at his own expence, save 100l. left by Mrs Blakiston For that purpose. He also built a Chapel at Allonby in Cumberd and a school-house there, and gave to procure the Queen's bounty to ye said Chap. 200l. To the Col. of Matrons at Wigton in Cumb. 600l. To the Charity school there 100l. To Queen's College in Oxfd 100l. To Edmund Hall there 200l And left by his Will to ye Societies for Propagating ye Gospel 500l. for promoting Christian knowl. 100l. for Working Schools in Ireland 100l. He also bequeathed his Library, a large and most valuable collection of Books in all kinds of Literature, to the Corporation of Newcastle for public Use, with a rent charge of 5l. a year for ever as a Fund for Buying new books.
Benefactions to this parish:
—The Right Reverend Thomas Wood, formerly rector of Whickham, and after wards bishop of Lichfield and Coventry, by his will dated the 11th of November, 1690, inter alia,
I give unto the town of Whickham, in the bishoprick of Durham, 100l. besides the 100l. formerly given by me, and both to be layed out unto trustees upon a rent charge for the use of the poor there for ever; and I will that Sir James Clavering, bart. James Clavering, his grandson, Sir William Blakiston, and Richard Harding, of Hallingside, in the county of Durham, gent. to see the same settled accordingly.
1696. Mr Ralph Herrison, of Bryan's lope, gave by will 100l. to the poor of the parish, to be put out for their use.
1726. Upon the much lamented death of her hopeful and only son Sir James Clavering, bart. on the 18th day of May, in the 18th year of his age, lady Clavering gave to the poor of this parish 100l. to be put out
t interest or laid out in lands by the rector and church-wardens with the consent of the vestry; and the interest or produce to be distributed yearly at Christmas among such workmen and their families as are the greatest objects of charity, and are not in the poors books.
Rot A Hatfield, sch. 1, No 3.—Process on the denial of rendering tithes of the mills to the rector.
Copyhold book A. p. 87. Pl. halm. ap. Chest. de Lune p't f'm Sci Luce ao p' Tho. 9o De Rog'o Gray nativo d'ni p' licentia retinendi triginta acr. ter. p'ioris de Brinkburne (in Quickham) ex dimissione Joh'is Pulhore, &c.
Ib
o 43. Pl. halm. ap. Chest. die M'curij in c'ro ai'ar ao p. Hatfield, 6o . P'cept. est Waltero de Kirkeby q'd seisir faciat in manu. d'ni p'tun del Redhough, q'd valet p' ann. 5 marc. q'd mag'r de Westspetell adquisivit d'eo hospit'li sine licentia d'ni ep'i. —
Various others of the like nature for other lands
Register's-office, lib. M. 370, 3 July, 1677. Tho. Liddell, bar. & o. c. major & burgenses Novi Castri sup' Tynam & al.
Whickham division.
Church-wardens of Whickham nine acres and twenty five perches in the Lowfield in full of their interest. Thomas Mason, rector of Whickham, thirty-four perches in the Easterbanks, five acres one rood and twenty-six perches in the Coleway-haugh, seven acres three roods and twelve perches in the Corn-moor, and two acres and twenty-six perches in the Leigh, in full of all the glebe lands of the rector and his successors, to all the lands lying in the common fields within the manor of Whickham.—
Hodgshon's MSS.
Sir William Riddell, knight, in the reign of queen Elizabeth, was one of the grand lessees in trust for the corporation of Newcastle of the manors of Whickham and Gateshead, and the parks, wastes, and coal mines, belonging to them under the bishop of Durham, then said to be worth fifty thousand pounds a year.—Sir William Riddell's seat was the hospital of St Edmund in Gateshead.
.
The reader will revert to the transactions during the usurpation, touching church possessions
Vol. i. p. 461.
; and also in the succeeding annals of the bishops the several demises are noted. The manors of Whickham and Gateshead are now in lease under the bishop of Durham to the late lord Ravensworth and others, at the yearly reserved rent of 235l. 11s. 4d.
DUNSTAN is on a pleasant situation, and Mr Carr's delightful villa commands a beautiful prospect of the town of Newcastle and adjacent country.
The manor of AXSELS, in the seventeenth of bishop Hatfield, was the estate of William de Birtley, who held the same
in capite
under the rent of 13s. 4d. In that prelate's survey it is noted, that the heirs of Hugh del Redhough held the vill of Axsels by foreign service, rendering 15s. 4d. Hugh, the heir, died in the beginning of bishop Skirlaw's pontificate, when there were two dowers charged on this manor, one for Agnes his wife, and the other for Alice the wife of Thomas de Stafford
Inq. p. m. Hugh del Redhough, 3 Skirlaw, cor. M. de Lomley esc.
12 April, 1345. Fealty by Will. de Birtley for the manor of Axsheles.—Sch. 8.
Book of rates 14l. 1s. 10d.—Value of lands, &c. 1546l.—
Grey's MSS.
Land tax at 4s. in the pound.
County rates at 6s. 8d.
 
 
Whickham parish
112
19
6
Whickham-fellside
1
12
8
 
 
 
 
Ditto town
1
5
1½
 
 
 
 
Ditto lowland
0
17
7¾
Registered estates, Whickham.
— Mr Henry Liddle 20l.—Mr Wm Liddle 20l.—Mr Thomas Liddle 20l.— Whickham, A
th. Meaburn,
esq
14l. 18s.—Ditto, Swalwell 16l.—Biggin John Smith 15l.—
Mann's MSS.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population from 1762 to 1781
2851
579
2785
Number of burials in the last year 125.—Computed number of inhabitants 3750. Colliery rents to the bishop 235l. 11s. 4d.
. In bishop Langley's time, Roger de Thornton acquired the manor of Axsels of Thomas de Redhough, and the same passed by the heiress of that family with their other large possessions.
The manor of HOLLINSIDE was the estate of the Burtons, alias Burdens, in the time of bishop Bury, and was held
in capite
by homage, fealty, and suit of court, rendering 6s. 8d. in silver at the exchequer. It soon afterwards became the estate of the Redhoughs
Vide Quickham, Hatfield's Survey.
, by the marriage of Agnes the daughter and heiress of Hugh Burton, alias Burden. It came afterwards to the Massams; and in the tenth of bishop Langley, was aliened by Robert de Massam to trustees, under limitations to the heirs of the bodies of him and Agnes his wife. The Hardings were owners, and in the tenth year of bishop Nevill, Ralph Harding, son and heir of Sir Richard Harding, had livery thereof. The last male of that family died in poverty, and the estate fell into the hands of the family of Bowes by foreclosure of mortgage.
The adjacent country wears an unpleasant aspect to the traveller, cut and harrowed up with loaded carriages, scattered over with mean cottages, from whence swarm forth innumerable inhabitants, maintained by working in the mines; where many a sooty face is seen by every hedge-way side: The workmen earn great wages, which recompense every other evil. The meagreness of the tract by which you pass to the environs of Gibside, renders the scene more striking, and enhances the beauties of the pass which leads immediately to those Elysian shades.
By a serpentine road, for a mile in length, you wind through the bosom of a thick forest, sometimes on the brink of a deep valley, at intervals descending on the easy inclination of the hill, still embowered with venerable oaks, before you approach the mansion and enter the opener works: The first escape from the wood presents you with a view of the banqueting-house, on a very elevated situation, terminating a spacious avenue: This structure is in a high Gothic stile, garnished with pinnacles. After passing a piece of water, the chief objects open upon you; to the right lies a noble sylvan scene, of great extent, hanging on inclining grounds, from a lofty summit, to the very skirts of the vale; in the midst of which, as a terminating object to the grand vista, rises a fine
Ionic
column of stone, highly wrought, not less, as we compute, than one hundred and forty feet in height, finished with an elegant gilt statue of
British Liberty,
in whose service the person who erected the work was enthusiastically virtuous: As you turn from this object, you look upon a terrace above a mile in length, terminated by a new chapel, built in a most elegant stile, with a rich portico and dome, highly embellished. The chief parts of the mansion-house are old, of the architecture which prevailed in the beginning of the seventeenth century, containing many spacious apartments: The back part of the house is placed so near the brink of a very steep descent, as merely to admit a terrace walk; from whence is a prospect, though narrow, highly picturesque and beautiful; you look down into a deep vale of meadow grounds, washed by the river Derwent, shut in on the right by hanging woods, and on the left by cultivated lands rising in irregular swells from the banks of the river, and terminated in the center by a lofty cliff much shaken and torn: Walks are cut through the groves, and wind along the margin of the river: Although nature has spread various rich gifts over the scene, yet art has bestowed a multitude of embellishments; the buildings before mentioned, the green-house, bath, and other edifices, are finished in a good taste, and some of them in a superb stile; with regard to the sylvan beauties, they are not to be paralleled in the whole county.
There are some good pictures in the house; among the chief is a large piece of Rubens's wife, whilst pregnant, in a fruit-shop; the expression is inimitable, yet attempted to be rivalled by the curiosity of the old woman she addresses; the collection of fruit is infinite, and well displayed. A picture of game, the painter's name not known, the figures large as life; an excellent painting. In the study is a fine portrait of Sir Martin Bowes. A portrait, marked A. Bowes, 1572, aet. 49, with many other modern portraits of the family.
GIBSIDE was the ancient estate of the Merleys, who held the vill of Merley, with the manor of Gippeset
in capite
by fealty, paying a mark at the exchequer yearly, and doing suit of court. Richard de Merley, in the third year of bishop Fordham, enfeoffed Alicia de Massam of Massam, and William Martin chaplain, in fee simple of the manor of Gebsete, the vill of Hedley, and the manor of Merley
Inq. capt. 8 Skirlaw, ap. Langchester, cor. R. de Laton chiv. esc.
. It continued in the Massams till the time of bishop Langley, when Robert Massam obtained licence to alien to the Merleys
Cursitors Rolls.—
Rudd's MSS.
: And in the first year of bishop Ruthall, John Merley, as son and heir of William, had livery of Gibside
Ibid.
: In the twelfth year of bishop Tunstall, on the 10th of October, Roger Blakiston,
esq
and Elizabeth his wife, daughter and heiress of Richard Merley, had livery of Gibside
Ibid. 2d bishop James, William Blakiston,
esq
cos. & heir of William of Gibside had livery. Ibid.
. Sir William Bowes, by intermarriage with Elizabeth, the heiress of Sir Francis Blakiston of Gibside, in the latter end of the seventeenth century, acquired that family's large possessions.
GIBSIDE
GATESHEAD CHURCH
The Parish of
GATESHEAD.
The ancient borough of Gateshead consists chiefly of one long street, descending to the bridge leading over Tyne to Newcastle: Much doubt has arose with our antiquaries touching the etymology of the name. It must content us to accept the Saxon appellation of Gaetsheved as sufficiently expressive of this place; where, if the Romans had a bridge, it is probable they also had a tower and gate for its defence; and after the Saxons were possessors, we may conceive this material pass was strongly fortified, and thence the name of
Gaetsheved
may be derived, from the circumstance of the street leading to the tower and gate of the bridge. The word
gaet
or
gate
is commonly used for
way
in this country
Gabrocentum hodie Gateshead, sive ad caprina capite Gabrocentum. In Anonymo sexto casu legitur Gabrocentio, & in Notitiae libro Gabrocentum, levi vitio; quod & nobis jam olim deprehensum est, cum nondum ederetur Ravennas, qui Gabrocentium scripsit, quod videremus Gabr'cent' Anglorum vernacula dic
Gateshead, uti superius monuimus. Tribunum cohortis secundae Thracum stationem habuisse Gabrocenti ex Notitia didicimus. De Ruderibus autem tam antiquae urbis nobis Novum Castellum in vicinia ortum est, mehori quidem, uti speramus, auspicio; at
que
hoc nobis Gabrocentum novum sit.
Baxteri Glossar, ad verb. p.
125.
, so that this name might signify the head of the great way to Tyne bridge.
The most material circumstance in which we find Gateshead noted in ancient history, is touching the catastrophe related of bishop Walcher, when on the 14th of May, 1080, the church was reduced to ashes. We have no account that shews when Gateshead church was first erected, or by whom; but from the preceding circumstance, it appears to be one of the most ancient within the district. When or from whom the borough of Gateshead had its foundation we are also ignorant; the first record we find relative to it
Bourne, in his History of Newcastle. p. 171, sets out a grant from bishop Philip, but he doth not point out where the original is to be found, or whence he had his translation is not in the large collections before us.
is that of bishop Pudsey, in the year 1164, in which he gives to the burgesses of Gateshead the liberty of his forest there, under certain restrictions: By this charter the bishop grants also to the burgesses,
that each shall have in right of his burgage similar liberties to those enjoyed by the burgesses of Newcastle in right of their burgages;
and that they shall have free passage within the liberties of the palatinate with their goods, clear of all dues and exactions
Concessio libertatis de forestagio burgensibus de Gatesheved per Hugonem Pudsey episc. Dunelm. 1164.
. The next record of note is bishop Hatfield's Survey, in which various particulars are set forth, and the possessors of several tenements are named, but it contains nothing relative to the ancient constitution of the borough, so that we must give up the hopes of recovering that curious particular, as the records from whence it might be best presumed to be acquired are silent
Gatesheved.
Gatesheved cum burgo & molendinis & piscarijs & furnis & cum tribus partibus terrae arabilis de eadem villa reddit lx marcas. Quarta pars terrae arabilis cum assartis quae d's episcopus fieri fecit, & prata sunt in manu d'ni episcopi cum instauramento duarum carrucarum.
Terrae Osmundi reddit. xxij s. vi d.—
Boldon Buke.
Liberi Tenentes.
Johannes de Ravensworth tenet per cartam, &c. Saltwelsyde.—Mag'r hospitalis S'ti Edmundi regis tenet j plac. pro quodam chamino habend. ab hospitali ad frergos per pratum domini, &c. Haeredes Thomae Surteys tenent. j aquaeduct. & j mes supra aedificat, &c.—Custos cantariae S. Trinitatis apud hospitale S. Edmundi confessoris tenet. ij mes. &c.—Thomas de Castell, &c. haeres Hugonis de Redhugh, John de Topcliff (Easterlinstrother) William Gategang (le Fletes Saltwelmed le Calscotes & le Host & Leystrech.)
Terrae Scaccarij.
Magister hospitalis S. Edmundi tenet, &c. cum multis aliis.
Molend.
Johannes de Sadberg tenet ij molend. aquat. & j molend. ventricum quae solebant reddere per ann. xxijli. modo reddunt per ann. xvjli. xiij s. iiij d.
Piscar.
Tenet piscar. aquae de Tyne & red. per ann. xxli.
Maner. cum domin. & burg.
Tenet maner. cum burgo terr. domin. pratis et pastur. unde de terris domin. & pratis acr. in campo de Gatesheved & lv acr. terrae & pratis super Tynam & redd. per ann. pro omnibus profic. dicti burgi & curiae ejusd. ad iiij term. xxijli.
Terrae vast.
Et sunt ibid. vj acr. terrae quond'm in tenura Ricardi Stickburn quae soleb't reddere per ann. iij s. vj d. modo vast. Et dicitur quod persona de Gatesheved tenet in diversis locis campi ibid. xv acr. terrae, quas credunt esse terras scaccarij pro quibus nihil solvitur.—
Hatfield's Survey.
. The last mentioned prelate, in the year 1348, appointed by writ of privy seal
a keeper of his park
of Gateshead
Vol. i. p. 806, notes.
Rot. Skirlaw, No 66. W. &c. Sciatis, &c. concessimus dil'co, &c. Joh'i Kempo custodiam parci n'ri de Gatesheved hen'd quamdiu nob. placu'it, p'cipiendo t'm unum denarium & unum obulum p' diem p' feodo custodia sup'a d'ca. In cujus, &c. Nov. 28, 1399.—
P. breve de p'r. sigillo.
Ibid. in dorso. No 4. W. &c. Sciatis, &c. concess &c. Hugoni Attehall offic. custodis p'a n'ri de Gatesheved hen'd, &c. ad t'minum vita ipsius, &c. 24 Jul. 1404.
Carta de burgo concess. Joh'i Multgreve penes Tho. Gyll, arm.
Omnib's, &c. Rich's Blankyr, &c. dedisse, &c. Joh's d'co Multgreve, &c. quoddam burgagium cum pertinent. in villa de Gatesheved q'd jacet int. terram Gilb'ti Textoris & venellum q'd tendit v'sus fontem S'c Hel
e & extendit se a regia strata in Gatesheved usq. ad domum Alex. Stote, &c.—
Randal's MSS.
, which officer was constantly named in succession by other bishops of the See: To this office bishop Nevill added that of
keeper of the tower of Gateshead
in 1438
Officium parcarii ac custodis turris de Gatesheved concessum Roberto Preston per Rob. Neville episc. Dunelm. 8th April, 14
8.
A strong wardyd gate at Gatesheved.—
Lel. Itin.
vol. 8, p. 51.
Tyne bridge hath ten arches and a strong warded tower on it.—
Ibid.
: As in other boroughs the bishop had his bailiff there
Langley, Rot. B. No 11.
Gateshead.
Concessio consuetudin. de rebus vena'lib's p' villam de Gateshead transcuntibus, auxilium p' repara
'
ne pavimenti in d'ca villa (Langley.)
De sene'llis cur epor ib'm.—Feod. 1l. 6s. 8d.
De ballivis epor. Dun. burgi sui de Gateshead.
Gi
'tus de Gategang, 1333, 2 cart. 218.—Jol
es Richardson p' vita feod. 100 s. Rot. cl. Et cus
os novae turris ib'm feod. 30s. 4d. (Fox.)
Parca
ius, &c. p' vita 1d. p' diem. & custos turris ib'm seod. 1d. p' diem. (Nevil.)
Hugo P
sar. ep'us p' cart. concessi
Turoldo de Lond. & hered. suis tot. ill. terram suam que jacet juxta T
m apud west a capite pontis Tynae usq. ad Redhoyle f's Pipewellgate, 4 Cart. so. 4
.
Will'us silius Onthredi Bull de Pipewellgate, Ao 1329. 2 Cart. 215, &c.
Curia tent. in Pipewellgate, coram balliis & al. probis hoi's do Pipewellgate, 1343. 2 Cart. 26, & comp. quord'm in plena cur.—
Mickleton's MSS.
. In 1557 bishop Tunstall granted a charter to the company of glovers within the borough of Gateshead. In 1602 bishop Matthew incorporated sundry trades: And bishop Cosin, by his letters patent, bearing date at Durham, the 16th day of September, the thirteenth of king Charles II. A. D. 1661, incorporated the drapers, taylors, mercers, hardwaremen, coopers, and chandlers in Gateshead, into a commonalty, fellowship, and company. In king Edward the Sixth's time Gateshead was annexed to Newcastle, but in the succeeding reign it was re-united to the bishopric of Durham.
The religious settlements at Monkchester would most probably encourage others on the southern shore. We repeat what the ingenious Mr Grose has said touching
the hospital of St Edmund,
before our readers proceed to the records:
This house seems to have been of no great eminence, since it is not mentioned by Dugdale, except in his general catalogue of the religious houses and their value, where there is the following entry among those of Durham;
Gatesheved, hospital of St Edmund,
5
l.
9
s.
4
d.
It is only thus slightly touched on by Tanner,
ad caprae caput, Goatshead or Gateshide, a monastery here, whereof Uttan was abbot before A. D.
653: But in the notes he refers to Bede's Ecclesiastical History, book iii. chap. 21, and to Leland's Collectanea
Adda
rat autem frater Uttan presbyteri illustris, & abbatis monasterij q'd vocatur capra
caput.
Bed. Hist. l.
3,
c.
21.—
Lel. Col. i
. p.
14
.
From Darwert mouth to Wyre mouthe, the low contry betwixt is cawlyd Wyralshire. Parte, or
teof Chester is in Wyrale.—
Lel. Itin. vol. vii. fo.
78.
. In the latter is a transcript from the former, where, among the holy men chosen by Peada, son of king Penda, to instruct him in the Christian religion, one
Adda is mentioned, who is there said to be brother to Uttan, an illustrious presbyter and abbot of the monastery called Goatshead:
Tanner likewise cites Bourne, who in his History of Newcastle says,
the monastery of Uttanus was where Mr Riddle's or Gateshead house now is.
From the following passage in Leland's Itinerary, vol. vii. part i. page 78, added to the entry before quoted from Dugdale's Catalogue, it appears as if this monastery was converted into an hospital before the dissolution of religious houses;
whereas the hospital
(says he)
is now of St Edmund at Gateshed in Wyrale, was some tyme a monastary as I have hard, and be lykelyhod the same that Bede spekythe of.
In the Magna Britannia, published in 1720, a different relation is given of this house, to that taken from Speed, in these words:
Gateshead, a religious house dedicated to St Edmund
who was the founder or benefactor, is not known, but the revenues are found to be
109
l.
4
s.
4
d. per ann.
Perhaps the former might be the value delivered into the king's commissioners, and this its true amount. From these obscure accounts little to be depended upon can be collected respecting its ancient history; the following is its present state: Its remains stand in Gateshead, on the east or right hand side of the high street leading to Newcastle bridge, from which it is distant about half a mile. The entrance is through a low square stone gate, decorated with pilasters, and seemingly of modern construction. The scite of the house with its offices and gardens, occupied about two acres and a half of land: Towards the east end of it are the ruins of a mansion, which, from the stile of its architecture, seems to have been built since the dissolution of the monastery, perhaps out of its materials. This probably was Mr Riddle's house alluded to by Bourne, and the gateway before mentioned was in all likelihood erected at the same time. Nearest the road stands the chapel, whose west end is handsomely ornamented with a number of pointed arches and niches, though the inside seems remarkably plain: It consists of a single aile, twenty-one paces broad, by twenty-six long; some steps at the east end leading to the altar are still remaining; near them is a grave stone, on which is cut a cross similar to that on the jamb of the church door at Jarrow; it has also the marks of an inlaid border about it, but the brass is gone. The arches of the windows (except those of the east and west ends, which are entirely pointed) are round within, and pointed on the outside. A remarkable ornament is mounted on the east end, on a slender rod, being a small circle chequered by several bars crossing each other at right angles. In the year 1745 or 46, this chapel, being, as it is said, made use of by the Roman Catholics, was out of a misguided zeal set on fire by some persons, who perhaps meant to pass for good Protestants, but by this their intolerant fury, shewed themselves to be actuated by those very principles they affected so much to contemn. This monastery is now the property of Ralph Clavering,
esq
of Callaly, and is chiefly used for garden ground
This account is attended with an elegant view of the chapel.
The house and garden ground, &c. were purchased about two years ago by Hen. Ellison,
esq
—The mines were reserved upon this sale.
.
This account gives us ground to suppose, that on the martyrdom of bishop Walcher, the old monastery and church were reduced to ashes; but whether they were situated where Mr Grose has attempted to place them, the reader will form his own conjectures. In the quotation from the Magna Britannia, it is said, touching the hospital of St Edmund, "who was the founder or benefactor is not known." It is probable that the ruined monastery, which had been a scene of such violation, sacrilege, and murder, would lie under the horror of those crimes, deserted and unrestored for some time; and it was not till the year 1247 that we hear of the hospital rising, as Mr Grose has presumed, from its ashes. In that year, bishop Farnham founded
the hospital of St Edmund the Confessor in Gateshead,
for a master and three subordinate brethren
There is no date to the foundation and ordination deeds. Farnham resigned 1249. Willis, vol. i. p. 239. —Prior Bertram, who confirmed, was not prior till 1245. Willis, vol. i. p. 260.—Supposed to be founded 1247. Tanner's Not. p. 115.—In the deed of ordination the hospital is noted as dedicated to St Edmund the confessor and St Cuthbert.
Creatio Jo. de Apilby in magistrum hospitalis S. Edmundi in Gatesheved, per Tho. Hatfield Dunelm. epis. 1353.
Reginaldus Porter vicarius ecclesiae parocialis de Pittington. constitutus custos hospitalis B. Edmundi
In this record stiled
"Hosp. B. Edmundi regis in Gatesheved."
, in Gatesheved, per Walt. Skirlaw epis. Dunelm. 1399.
Custodia capellae S. Edmundi & Cuthberti
In this St Edmund and St Cuthbert.
in Gateshede concessa Johanni Heyworth vicario S. Nicholai in Novo Castro, per Tho Langley epis. Dunelm. 1435.
, for whose maintenance he granted
the vill of Ulkistan,
with the
manor of Gateshead,
and wood-lands thereto belonging, called
Benchelm,
also certain escheated lands in
Aluresacyres,
but no mention is therein made of any ancient monastery or the lands of such. As by this foundation, the appropriated tenements were dismembered from the church of Durham, in compensation the bishop by the same deed assigned lands in
Staindrop,
with the advowson of the church there, lands in
Winston
with the advowson of the church, lands and services in
Thymelby,
lands in
Creyk,
bought of Robert de Raskelf, all the vill of
Herdwick
near Stockton, obtained in part by purchase and part in exchange for the manor of
Bradewood,
also certain money payments out of the bishop and prior of Carlisle's ecclesiastical rights in Northumberland, together with the advowson of the church of
Stamfordham
in that county. This foundation charter received confirmation from the prior and convent of Durham. The bishop also instituted certain ordinances for the government of the hospital, and by the same instrument united therewith
the chapel or hospital of the Holy Trinity
in Gateshead
Bishop Tanner in the Notitia Monastica says, there was an hospital here dedicated to the Holy Trinity, in the beginning of the reign of Henry III. to which Henry de Ferlington gave his farm at Kyhoe, to find a chaplain, and maintain three poor men; as appears by Simon de Ferlinton's confirmation of his brother's gift, and the bishop of Durham's deed thereupon.
The confirmation by Richard de Marisco bishop of Durham, of lands given in Frankalmoigne to the above hospital by Henry de Ferlington. [10 Henry III. 1226. Madox Form. p. 58. No 113.] Datum apud Acclent octavo decimo die Januarij pont. nostri octavo.
☞ The original is in the Augmentation-office, and written in a neat hand, endorsed Collacio de Kyhowe. The seal, in green wax, exhibits a bishop in pontificals, in the usual manner: On the reverse, a counterseal near as large as the principal one, with three human figures, and inscribed
Hoc onus ut sit h
(one
)—
patronus.
Concessio terrarum ad hospitale S. Edmundi regis in Gatesheved, 6th October, 1378. Ex Rot. (B) Hatfield, Sched. 4, No 10.
. Bishop Hatfield, in 1378, granted several tenements in augmentation of the hospital of St Edmund, by the stile of
S'ti Edmundi regis.
In bishop Langley's time, A. D. 1448, on the petition of the prioress and nuns of St Bartholomew in Newcastle, in which the insufficiencies and failures of the revenues of their house are set forth, the bishop appropriated St Edmund's hospital thereto, by the stile of
the hospital of St Edmund the Bishop
Appropriatio capellae S. Edmundi episcopi in Gatesheved facta monialibus S. Bartholoma i in Novo Castro per Robertum Neville epis. Dunelm. 7th October, 1448.
Obligatio monalium de Novo Castro de annua pensione capel. Sancti Edmundi episcopi datum in domo nostra capitulari 20 die Octob. 1448.
A grant of the hospital of St Edmund in Gateside, and the possessions thereof, made by the master of that hospital to the priory of St Bartholomew in Newcastle, to find chaplains for ever to celebrate, &c. 1st May, 1449.—Madox Form. fo. 271, No 458.—Ex. Autogr. in Offic. Augmen.
The confirmation of the preceding grant by Robert Neville bishop of Durham, 1450.—Madox Form. p. 69, No 131.
☞The original is in the Augmentation-office, to which the remains of a stately seal upon silken strings is appendant. One side represents the bishop in the equipage of a knight on horseback in splendid array:
The other side in pontifical vestments sitting on a throne, &c.
Though the preceding grants shew this hospital of St Edmund in Gateshead, with all the lands belonging to it, were granted 27th Henry VI. 1449, to the prioress and nuns of St. Bartholomew in Newcastle; yet it is valued 26th Henry VIII. 1535, (on the general survey) as having in yearly revenues 109l. 4s. 4d. according to Speed; 5l. 9s. 4d. according to Dugdale; and 6l. 2s. 4d. clear by the MS. val.
N. B. The only way to reconcile the great difference between these two valuations, is to suppose it originally wrote 109s. 4d. and that Speed's transcriber mistook, and put pounds for shillings, or that there were two hospitals as after mentioned, and that by the coal working, licenced by bishop Neville to the master of St Edmund the martyr, the great revenue arises.
Thirty-one of the lesser houses had the king's licence in the 28th year of his reign. 1537, to be resounded and continue some time longer; and the hospital of St Bartholomew in Newcastle is said to be one of the number.—
Tanner's Notitia, pref. p.
37.—
Burton's Mon. Ebor. vol i. p.
65.
Near the town of Newcastle appears to have been a small Benedictine nunnery, as old as the time of William the Conqueror: It was dedicated to St Bartholomew, and had a little before the dissolution ten nuns, when it was valued at 36l. 10d. by Dugdale, and 37l. 4s. 2d. by Speed.—
Tanner's Notitia, p.
391.
Agnes Lawson, the last prioress, surrendered this convent the 3d of January, 31st Henry VIII. 1540, and had a pension of 6l. assigned her, and enjoyed it in 1553, in which year there remained in charge the following pensions, viz.
Johanna, prioress
1
10
0
Johanna Brodrigge
1
6
8
Johanna Younger
1
6
8
Elizabeth Cranmer
1
6
8
Cicely Middletone
1
6
8
Willis's Hist. Abbies, vol. ii. p.
164.
Certain grounds behind the Turk's-head tavern in the Bigg-market are called Nuns. and supposed to be the scite of this house.
. Whether upon the surrender by the prioress, the hospital was totally suppressed or not, is uncertain, but king James I. refounded an hospital in Gateshead, called
the hospital or free chapel of St Edmund king and martyr,
and for that purpose granted his charter, dated the 8th of January, 1610, by which it was ordained, that the house should from thenceforth bear the name of
the hospital of king James, in Gateshead, in the county palatine of Durham,
for the reception of three poor men, and that the rector of the church of Gateshead should be master, and they should be incorporated by the stile of
the master and brethren of the hospital of king James in Gateshead,
and capable of acquiring lands, tenements, &c
JACOBUS Dei gratia, &c. Omnibus ad quos presentes literae pervenerint salutem. Cum in villa de Gateside infra episcopatum Dunelm. quoddam hospital. a diu extitit vulgariter nuncupat. hospital. sive capel. Sancti Edmundi regis et martyris de cujus fundatore certo non constat. Quod quidem hospital. per idem tempus consistit de uno magistro et tribus fratribus. Qui quidem magister et fratres hospital. predict. et successores sui divers. terr. tenement. pastur. libertat. et privileg. ad sustentacionem patiperum ibidem in pur. et perpet. elemosin. habuer. et tenuer.
Volentes insuper, &c. de gratia nostra speciali ac ex certa scientia et mero motu nostris volumus ac per presentes pro nobis heredibus et successoribus nostris concedimus quod predict. hospital. sive dom. situat. et existen. in Gateside in com. sive episcopat. Dunelm. predict. modo vulgariter nuncupat,
"the hospital or free chapel of St Edmund king and martyr, within the town of Gateside,"
de ceter. imperpetuum sit erit et permaneat hospital. pauperum in Gateside predict. in com palatin. Dunelm. pro sustentatione relevamine et manutentione pauperum.
Et quod dict. hospital. de cetero imperpetuum erit aut esse possit et consistit de uno magistro et tribus viris pauper. in codem hospital imperpetuum inveniend. et sustentand. et quod dict. hospital. deinceps imperpetuum vocabitur
hospital. regis Jacobi in Gaeteside in com. palatin. Dunelm.
TOT ill. hospital. sive reputat. hospital. antehac communiter vocat. sive cognit. per nomen hospital. sive liber. capell. Sancti Edmundi regis et martyris infra vill. de Gateside sive per nomen hospital. Sancti Edmundi episcopi in Gateside sive per quodcunque al. nomen sive nomina quecunque antehac vocat. sive cognit. suit.
Ac tot. scit. mansion. & gardin. eorundem, necnon quadraginta acras terr. arrabil. quinque carect. feni, de decem acr. prat. quadraginta acr. pastur. ad sustentation. bestiar. et unu. claus. apud
Shotley-brigge
in predict. com. palatin. Dunelm. cum omnibus et singulis corum
juribus membris libertatibus et pertinen. universis de quibus reputat. magister et fratres hospital. predict. et predecessores sui vel eorum aliquis vel aliqui per spacium sexaginta annorum ultim. elaps. ante dat. harum litterarum nostrarum patentium de facto saltem si non de jure habuer. perceper. vel gavis. suer. annual. reddit. exit. revencion. seu profic. quiete et absque disturbatione.
Ac etiam omnia et singula messuag. molendin. domos edific. structur. nuper hospital. vel reputat. hospital. ad aliquod tempus antehac spectan. pertinen. inciden. vel appenden. &c. Habend. tenend. et gaudend. predict. hosp. terr. &c. prefat. magistro et fratribus et successoribus suis imperpetuum ad solum et proprium opus et usum corundem magistri et fratr. et successorum suorum imperpetuum. IN cujus rei testimonium has litteras nostras fieri fecimus patentes. TESTE meipso apud Westmonasterium quarto die Januarii anno regni nostri Anglie, Francie, et Hibernie octavo et Scotie quadragessimo quarto. Per breve de privato figillo.
. He granted to the master and brethren the hospital or edifice known by the name of
the hospital or free chapel of St Edmund king and martyr,
within the vill of Gateshead, or by the name of
the hospital of St Edmund the bishop
in Gateshead, with the scite of the mansion-house and garden, and certain lands at Shotley bridge,
with all such their rights, members, liberties, and appurtenances whatsoever, which the master and brethren of the hospital aforesaid, and their predecessors, or any of them, for the space of sixty years then last past and next preceding the date of these letters patent, had uninterruptedly held and enjoyed.
And it was also thereby ordained, that during the time of master Hutton, each of the three paupers should receive yearly 3l. 6s. 8d. out of the revenues of the endowment, and after his time the masters should receive to their own use one third part only of the revenues, and the other two parts be distributed to the brethren. From this deed it may be understood, by implication, that the hospital had been a second time erected before the time of this charter: The original constitution was totally altered, and indeed one may apprehend, that the first foundation was utterly dissolved; who had again begun this pious work, or when, we have no record to shew. This charter tells us the muniments which evidenced the foundation and endowment were lost; such could not be the case if it arose from the original institution by bishop Farnham; the more modern foundation, in the distraction of those times which intervened between the year 1535 and 1610, might probably be lost or destroyed; and this observation gains strength by the reference in the charter to
sixty years quiet enjoyment, by the master appointed thereby and his predecessors,
expressions not only useless, but repugnant to common sense, if the hospital was instantly rising under that charter. Not having other records to refer to in support of the idea, we leave the conjectures for the reader's application
Dr Smith, in his edition of Bede's Ecclesiast. Hist. says that in Gateside there are no footsteps remaining of the ancient monastery of Uttanus; but of a more modern one we see a most beautiful chapel, which is not as yet in ruins. There is a tradition that this was a cell of the nuns of Newcastle, tho' we cannot readily quote any authority for it. The tradition appears somewhat probable, for in the charter (k. Hen. 2.) before mentioned, the nuns of St Bartholomew received 2 s. annually from this cell.—
Bourne, p.
50.
This was one of the religious houses which by letters patent of king Henry VIII. were new sounded, and preserved from the dissolution of lesser monasteries, 30th March, A. R. 28, vol. i. Hist. Reform. col. records, 142, 143. It was afterwards resigned and suppressed, 3d January, 31st king Henry VIII.—
Ibid.
149.
.
From all the uncertainties noted in the account of St Edmund's, it is probable king James's foundation did not affect the chapel described by Mr Grose, but that the nuns of Newcastle had a cell there, within the ancient limits of the hospital possessions; perhaps on the scite of the hospital of the Holy Trinity, or that there were two hospitals, one dedicated to St Edmund the bishop, and the other to St Edmund king and martyr, in distant and distinct situations; or how can we reconcile the facts of the chapel so described going to decay, and that together with the whole scite of the adjacent buildings and surrounding lands being in lay hands for several generations, totally unconnected with the present hospital, notwithstanding the words of king James's foundation charter. Bishop Hatfield's Survey speaks of the hospitals of St Edmund the king, and St Edmund the confessor distinctly
Vide notes preceding.
. There is an irreconcilable confusion in this subject, and we are apt to believe there were two religious foundations here dedicated as before noted, one to St Edmund the confessor, appropriated to St Bartholomew in Newcastle, which was dissolved under the surrender of that monastery, and another of a foundation now unknown, which had been exempted from the dissolution, and refounded by king James, dedicated to St Edmund king and martyr, notwithstanding the complex description of lands, &c. in the royal charter. Mr Riddle's house was called Gateshead house, and as Mr Grose observes, is of a mode of architecture denoting a date subsequent to the suppression of religious houses, and whilst in his or the family of Callaly's possession, there is an obvious reason why it might be in use in the year 1745
Hospital of St Edmund.—Proc. ep. 13 s. 4 d.—Real. value 200l.
Masters.
Magister Ricardus occurs custos 12 Kal. April, 1265—Joh'es de Lynce occurs 1 June, 1344 —John de Appilby, 20 August, 1353—Adam de Fenrother, el. 1366—Will. de Brantingham, 1374—Reginald Porter, 3 December, 1404—John de Newton—John King
W. Redhugh held an acre of land in the east field of Gateshead within the limits of the lands of St Edmund the king,
lled Bolesacre, lying between the lands of John King chaplain &
custod. cantarie p'die
in Gateshead.
, 1400—J. Walkington-Gen. Radclyf, d. 29 January, 1431 — Mag'r John Heyworth, in decr. bac. 12 May, 1435 — Thomas Kirkeby. cl. May 1441—William Hilderskelfe, 7 October, 1449—John Shirwood, 1467—Anth. Bellasys, LL. D.—Robert Claxton, 15 August, 1552 — John Woodfall, 6 May, 1579—Clem. Colmore, LL. D. 4 June, 1587—John Hutton, rector of Gateshead, appointed by king James I. 4 January, 1610—The successors were all rectors of Gateshead.
N. B. The rector of Gateshead may let a lease of the hospital lands for ten years; and if he dies within that term his executors are entitled by law to the profits till the ten years are compleated.
.
Before the act of the seventh of Edward VI. which annexed Gateshead to Newcastle, tolls were paid by the burgesses of Newcastle to the bishop or his lessees, for passage in Gateshead: But when Gateshead was restored to the bishopric of Durham, to take off the great opposition made by the corporation of Newcastle, or to compensate their loss, bishop Tunstall granted a lease to the mayor and burgesses of Newcastle, dated the 17th of March, 1554,
of the Salt Meadows for ninety years, and so from ninety till the time of four hundred and fifty years was spent, with a way to be assigned for all persons, and for the conveyance of wares and merchandise and other things, to and from the Salt Meadows and the high street of Gateshead
At the assizes at Durham, August 3, 1748, a cause was tried between Henry Thomas Carr and Henry Ellison,
esq
plaintiffs, and Nich. Fairless defendant. Upon the pleadings the question was, whether Fairless, lessee of J. Liddle, who was the lessee of the corporation of Newcastle, had a right to a way from the high street of Gateshead down Wash-house Lane and down the Limekiln Close to the Salt Meadows. After a long trial, which ended about four o'clock in the morning, the special jury found for the plaintiffs, who proved there was an ancient way from Gateshead cross Akewellgate to the Salt Meadows.—
Gyll's MSS.
In the fourth year of bishop Nevill, he granted a licence to Thomas Kirkeby, master of the hospital of St Edmund the martyr in Gateshead, to work coals in the hospital lands, and to lead them to the Tyne, and to build staiths upon the bishop's soil there, and that such working should not be accounted dilapidation, paying to the bishop and his successors 100 s. per ann.—
Cursitors Rolls.—Rudd's MSS.
Cardinal Wolsey granted a lease for forty years to Tho. Winter, dean of Wells and archdeacon of Richmond, of a house and furnace in Gateshead, and of all the bishop's mines, as well in the country called Weredale, as in any other place in the said bishopric. Five pounds rent.—Dated 10th February, 20th king Henry VIII.—
Ibid.
; rent reserved 2 l. 4 s. The Salt Meadows, with the buildings thereon, now produce about 200l. a year. The same lease also comprehends all manner of toll of the town of Gateshead for any and every kind of merchandise, tollable within the precinct, liberties, and jurisdiction thereof, or any where else within the bishopric of Durham for the said toll, to such effect and meaning that the said toll should thenceforth remain unlevied, untaken, and as if extinguished, and no such toll to be thenceforth gathered, taken, or paid of the said mayor or burgesses and their successors, or of any other person or persons for or in respect of the same, or such toll as theretofore had been taken in Gateshead, or thereafter might be taken if that demise were not. And the mayor and burgesses did thereby covenant with the bishop, that in consideration of the said toll of the said town of Gateshead so demised, neither they nor their successors, or any of their officers, or any person by their means, should at any time during the term thereby granted, take or levy of any person or persons any manner of toll of the south side of the water of Tyne, or within the town, liberties, and county of Newcastle, for, or in manner, or in respect of the town of Gateshead. Rent reserved 4l. 6s. 8d.
We find several families of note holding lands
in capite
in Gateshead. In the fifth year of bishop Hatfield, John Gategang died seised of thirty-three acres, called the Old Park, held by fealty and twenty-two shillings rent; and Alan Gategang the same year died seised of the whole land called Pipewellgate, held of the bishop
in capite in baroniam:
Sibilla the widow of Gilbert Gategang, held a capital messuage and lands in Kabayncrofts, St Elenscrofts, Marshal-Meadow, the Fleetes, and Strother Meadow, and twenty-four acres in the wastes in Gateshead fields. In the twentieth year of the same prelate, she held of the bishop the Park of Gateshead, paying one pound of pepper. Idoma their daughter and heiress married John Fetherstonhalgh
See the inq. p. m. Alan Gategang, on the inquisition taken 20th bishop Hatfield, appeared to die seised of 12 mess. 100 acres of land and 40 acres of meadow in Gateshead, held by fea
ty and 4l. 6s. 8d. rent at the exchequer.—And also 43 acres of moor land on Gateshead moor.
. Gocelinus Surtays held of the bishop seven tenements in Gateshead, and sixty-nine shillings rent out of lands, and six tenements in Gateshead and Akewelgate, of the rectorial church of Gateshead, rendering 4s. 6d
Inq. p. m. 22 bishop Hatfield.
. Rob. de Umfrevill died seised in the thirty-fifth year of bishop Hatfield, of seven burgages in Gateshead. In the same year David de Rodham died seised of grounds called Chilside and Spinner Flat: Alicia his daughter and heiress married Thomas del Castell: And John de Eyghton held Saltwellside, and dying without issue, his estates descended to his sister Emma, wife of John de Ravensworth. The before mentioned lands, called the Fleetes, became the possession of the Dolphanbys by purchase, in the time of bishop Langley
Inq. 14 bishop Langley.
, who also held twelve tenements in Pipewellgate, and 9l. 7s. rent, issuing out of other tenements there. The family of Redheugh held divers tenements in Gateshead, but failing in male issue, their possessions passed to the Butlers and Heckleys, by marriage of the heiresses
Vide Lynths.
. The family of Gategangs fell into female issue, and their estates passed to the Guildfords, by marriage of Sibilla the sister of William Gategang, whose family did not long survive the same fate
Vide Collierly.
. Divers families of note held burgages in Gateshead, too tedious to be enumerated here.
TYNE BRIDGE in part appertains to the county of Durham: It is of great antiquity, and several authors of note have supposed the Romans had an open communication between their stations on the northern and southern shores of Tyne at this place. Mr Horsley's opinion
Page 104. Brit. Rom.
was, that there must have been a bridge in the Roman times over the river Tyne, near the place where the present bridge stands. He says,
I think there are some certain visible remains of a military way on Gateshead fell, pointing directly towards the part where I suppose the station has been at Newcastle, and coming, as I apprehend, from Chester-le-street. Dr Hunter assured me he had also observed visible remains of such a way.
The idea seems to be confirmed by the discovery of several Roman coins in the ruins of the bridge after the flood of 1771, taken up by the workmen who were employed in repairs
Inscribed, Diva Faustina Rev. Augusta. S. C.—Divus Verus—Consecratio—Antoninus Aug. Pius— These coins were in the possession of bishop Egerton.
. In the time of William the Conqueror the bishop of Durham was admitted to have, in right of his palatinate, the south part of the river Tyne
1080. Turris London ss. Recorda merchiar. tempore Williel. Conq. regis, whereby the meets and bounds of the river Tyne are described as then enjoyed.
Tempore regis Henrici primi filij regis Will. facta est concordia de piscar. in Tyna secundum quod antiquiores totius Haliwerkfolke et Northumberlande juraverunt tempore Ranulphi episcopi in presentia Walt. Speke et E
stacii filij Johannis Justic. quod a Slaneburnmouth usq. Tynemouth viz. usq. in mare medietas aquae de Tyna pertinet ad S. Cuthbertum et episcopatum Dunelm. Et alia medietas ad com. Northumber. Ita tamen quod tertia pars utriusq. erit communis & libera in medio. Eadem aqua debet mensurari ad Mayn
loode quando eadem aqua sluit ut plena bancke & bancke—
Ib. ad An. Ann.
1454.
Eo.
93.
Ex reg. Dunelm. Bibl. Cotton.
7047.
. By the charter of king Henry II. the bishop had confirmed to him the right of ships plying in his part of Tyne, as fully and freely as the king possessed that usage on the other. Bourne, speaking of this bridge, says,
It has been a query whether the bridge was originally of wood or stone; but I think it is altogether needless, all the bridges in England were originally of wood. In the reign of king Richard I. Philip bishop of Durham sent to the burgages of Gateside, a grant of forestage, in which are these words,
and it shall be lawful for every burgess to give wood to whomsoever he will, to be spent about the river of Tyne, without any licence.
This I imagine has been for building of keys, and especially for the repairing of the bishop's part of the bridge, which is a further proof that this bridge was wood. But what I think puts it beyond dispute is, that according to Matthew Paris, it was burnt in the year 1248, together with a great part of the town
P. 728. In Anglia vero, etsi de aliis sileamus, maxima pars burgi qui Novum Castrum super Tinam appellatur, cum ponte, igne quasi furioso consumpta est.
.
After this misfortune happened, the town, who repairs two-thirds of the bridge, and the bishop the other, laid out their endeavours to raise up another bridge of stone: Accordingly the bishop of Durham sent out indulgences, and the town procured other bishops to do the same, to all that would assist, either with money or labour, by which they got a sum sufficient. The archdeacon of Northumberland wrote to the clergy of his archdeaconry to assist the work of the bridge; telling them, their venerable father the lord bishop of Durham by his letters patent had commanded them without any let or delay, to go about the affair of the indulgences, and that they were to prefer the episcopal indulgences to others; and what arose from them was to be given to the master of the bridge, whose name was Laurentius, for the use of the bridge.
Lib. Cart.
Many other indulgences were granted for that purpose. By an inquisition taken at Newcastle, in the year 1293, it was adjudged, that the right of the bishop of Durham extended to the mid stream of Tyne
Et inquisitio inde capt. apud Novum Castrum super Tinam in com. Northumbriae cra. S'ti Hillarij anno regni Edw. regis (fil. regis Henrici) 21o de medietate aquae de Tyne episc. Dunelm. spectant.
. In the seventh year of k. Richard II. bishop Fordham obtained a charter confirming the right of merchants plying their vessels on the bishop's side of the river Tyne, and loading and unloading coals there unmolested, by the burgesses of Newcastle
Vide vol. i. p. 318, and note thereto.
1384. An. 7. Ric. 2. reg. Johannes Fordham episc. carta Richardi secundi regis episc. Dunelm. pro applicatione navium, oneratione & exoneratione carbonum merchan. diver. et aliarum rerum quarumcunque absq. impedimento hom. villae Novi Castri super Tinam.
1393. 15 Rich. 2. Carta Richardi secundi regis episc. Dunelm. de libertatib's regal. com. palatini infra Tynam & Tesam (usq. medium aquarum illarum) cum applicatione oneratione & exoneratione navium batellorum et aliorum vasorum in eisdem aquis.—
Vide Dugdale's Monast. prima parte fo.
46,
tit. Dunelm.
. There was a necessity for this solemn act, for the burgesses had paid no obedience to the writ of king Edward III.
Writ attested at York, 20th August, 8th of the reign, 1334.
Turr. Lond. An. 18. k. Edw. 3. 1334. The king's commissioners appointed conservators of the river Tyne, and were prosecuted before the bishop of Durham's justices, (appointed by the bishop's own commission then Richard de Bury) for intermeddling in the conservatorship of the south part of the said river belonging to the bishop; wherein the king's commissioners pleaded not guilty, but upon trial thereof were found guilty, and condemned to imprisonment.
on the behalf of bishop Bury, prohibiting the mayor and bailiffs of Newcastle from impeding such navigation; or regarded the legal example of the king's commissioners, who suffered imprisonment for intruding on the conservatorship of the bishop's part of the river. In the fourth year of Henry V. 1416, bishop Langley obtained judgment on a trial at law against the mayor and burgesses of Newcastle upon Tyne, heard at the bar of the Court of King's Bench, on which a jury were summoned from the counties of Westmoreland and Cumberland, on an issue joined before the lord high chancellor, and transmitted to that court by order of parliament to be tried there, whereby he was confirmed in the right of the See to the south part of the river Tyne and the bridge and tower thereupon
See Annals of bishop Langley, vol. i. p. 333, records in the notes.
. About the year 1512 bishop Ruthall repaired the south part of the bridge. Under the act of dissolution of 1553, all the possessions of the bishopric were vested in the crown, and by the act of the succeeding year, when Gateshead was annexed to Newcastle, the lands called Salt Meadows, with the whole river of Tyne and the bridge passed therewith, and were adjudged to be within the county and shire of the town of Newcastle, and that the inhabitants of Gateshead should be under the rule, government, and correction of the mayor and burgesses of Newcastle. All these were restored in 1554, as before mentioned. The bridge, after the conflagration in 1248, was rebuilt on twelve stone arches, three of which, by the construction of quays, on the Newcastle side, were thought unnecessary, and converted into cellars: About the middle of the bridge a tower was erected, with machicolations and iron gates; a little to the southward of which the boundary stone was fixed, to distinguish the division of the counties; the end from thence to Gateshead belonging to the bishop of Durham. At the south end was another tower, and from the vacancy in the archings, there wanting an arch near the southern tower, it has been presumed there was in that space a draw-bridge. The bishops of Durham have for time immemorial possessed all rights and privileges of the bridge, from the boundary stone southwards, being called a third part, and granted leases for lives or years, of all houses and shops erected thereon, and as occasion required repaired that part of the bridge. In July 1770, bishop Trevor repaired with stone the space before noted, where it is supposed the draw-bridge was; it was laid with large beams of timber, and covered with thick planks, upon which the pavement was made: This work was begun on Saturday night or Sunday morning, and finished on Thursday following, all the materials of stone being previously prepared, and a proper number of workmen, with boats and wherries above and below bridge, for conveying passengers and carriages over the river during the time of the work. In the night between the 16th and 17th of November, 1771, there was a flood in the river Tyne, greatly exceeding any noted in history or otherwise known, by the force of which an arch north of the toll-gate was first swept away
A curious view of the ruined bridge was engraved and published by Mr Beilby of Newcastle.
, then another on the south end fell, with eight houses on the west side of it, those on the east hanging by their timbers. On Monday the 18th, about four in the afternoon, another of the south arches fell, with the houses thereon, and the remaining parts of the bridge were so much shattered, that it was necessary to take the superstructure down. Only seven persons were lost by the fall of the several houses. The river began to rise at Newcastle about twelve o'clock on Saturday night, and at five in the morning the arches of the bridge were filled, so that a current was forced into the west end of the street called the Close, which runs parallel with the river; it overflowed the Sandhill-square, so that boats plied there, and many of the shops had five feet water in them: The water exceeded every other flood of which we have any note; by eight perpendicular feet in height; and infinite loss and damage was sustained on the shores and in the shiping and craft. In 1772 an act of parliament was obtained for making a temporary bridge, by the corporate body of Newcastle, to continue for seven years, (provided a new one of stone was not erected, or the old bridge restored in less time) with toll-gates thereon, and the tolls to be applied in reimbursing to the corporation such money as they should expend therein over and above the sum of 2400l. which they voluntarily gave to the work: And in the same year an act of parliament was made to enable the lord bishop of Durham and his successors to raise a competent sum of money, to be applied for repairing, improving, or rebuilding such part of Tyne bridge as belongs to the See of Durham. The preamble sets forth, that the lord bishop of Durham is entitled in right of his See, to one-third part of an ancient bridge extending across the river Tyne, between the town of Gateshead in the county palatine of Durham, and the town of Newcastle upon Tyne; and that by the violence and rapidity of a most extraordinary flood, which happened on the 17th day of November, 1771, in the river Tyne, the said bridge was damaged and broken down in several places, and rendered impassable: And in order to restore an easy and safe communication between the counties of Durham and Northumberland, it is highly expedient that the said bridge should be rebuilt, and effectually repaired with all possible expedition; and that the necessary repairs of one-third part of the said bridge, belonging to the bishop of Durham in right of his See, and extending from two blue marble or boundary stones, on the south side of the said bridge, to the town of Gateshead, will be attended with great expence, and however reasonable or proper it may be, that the entire sum necessary to be appropriated for, and employed in that useful and necessary work, ought to be raised out of or secured upon the revenues and possessions of the said See of Durham, and that the bishop of Durham for the time being, ought not to bear any greater burthen than shall arise from the interest or annual charge to be paid in respect of the principal money to be raised for the purpose aforesaid; yet the said lord bishop consenting, that a reasonable and adequate sum of money may be raised by authority of parliament, by granting annuities for lives, which will not only be speedy and effectual, but may be a method less burthensome to the successors in the said See than to the said now lord bishop, by the eventual dropping in of lives and the decrease of such temporary charge; it is thereby enacted, that the chancellor of the bishopric and county palatine of Durham and Sadberge, the sheriff of the county, &c. the vicar-general and principal official of the diocese of Durham, the attorney and solicitor general to the lord bishop of Durham, the principal register or registrar of the diocese of Durham, the auditor to the lord bishop of Durham, the keeper of Auckland castle, the steward of the halmote courts of the lord bishop of Durham, the clerk of the halmote courts of the lord bishop of Durham, the clerk of the great receipt of the exchequer of Durham, the register of the court of chancery of Durham, the clerk of the court of chancery of Durham, the keeper of the rolls of the chancery aforesaid, the clerk of the itinerant justices and other justices whomsoever in the county palatine of Durham and Sadberge, and the bailiff of the borough of Auckland for the time being, or any three of them, are thereby appointed trustees to put the said act in execution, by and under the direction of the bishop and his successors, for repairing, rebuilding, or improving such part of the said bridge as belongs to the See of Durham: And to raise any sum not exceeding 12,000 l. for the purposes aforesaid, by granting annuities not exceeding 10 l. per cent. to be paid by the receiver-general of the bishop and his successors, out of the revenues of the See of Durham.
In consequence of this act a new bridge has been erected on an elegant plan, and no houses are permitted to be built on the piers or battlements.
REDHEUGH, the seat of Henry Askew,
esq
lies to the west of Gateshead, near the river Tyne. It gave a local name to the resident family, who held the manor of the bishop of Durham
in capite,
by homage, fealty, and suit of court; and in the fifth year of bishop Hatfield was estimated at forty shillings, clear of reprisals.— This family continued possessors several generations, till failing in male issue, the estates descended to coheiresses, one marrying Boteler or Butler, and the other Heckley
Vide Lynths.
.
GATESHEAD PARK-HOUSE, the seat of Hen. Ellison,
esq
a fine elevated situation, commanding a view of the busy scenes on the river Tyne, and the adjacent country.
The manor of EIGHTON was the ancient estate of the Lumleys, derived from the grant of bishop Flambard to his nephew
Vide Ravensworth.
. There was an hermitage on the banks of the rivulet near the road side leading from Chester to Gateshead, to which bishop Fordham granted an acre of land, for building a chapel and cell in honour of the Holy Trinity
Rot. Fordham, Sch. 9, No 7.
Joh'es d gra. Ep'us Dun. o'ibus, &c. Sciatis q'd nos de gra. n'ra sp'iali concessimus Roberto Lamb heremitae, unam acram vasti n'ri ad finem borealem villae de Eighton jacentem, juxta altam viam ducentem versus Gatesheved, videlicet ex parte occidentali dict. viae p'pe rivulum descendentem de fonte vocat. Scoteswat. p' quadam capella & heremitagio p' ipsum ibid. in honore. S. Trinitatis aedisicand. Hend. & tenend. eid'm Rob'to ad terminum vitae suae de Elemosina n'ra libere & quiete ab omni s'vicio seculari ad serviend. Deo ibidem & orand. p' nobis & p' predecessoribus & succ. n'ris. Dat. vicesimo die Maij Ao sexto, &c. P' breve
. priv. sig. A. D. 1387.
.
GATESHEAD CHURCH is a spacious building, capable of receiving a very numerous congregation, and kept in that order due to places of divine worship: It is very light, and receives a good circulation of air: The chancel, from the altar rails, is nine paces long and six wide; the east window consisting of five lights; there are also three windows to the south, and two to the north, under pointed arches: The communion table is supported by cherubs, in stone work; near which are three recesses or seats in the wall within the rails, for priests officiating in the ancient service, and an aperture for a water bason. This church is built upon a regular plan, in the form of a cross, with side ailes, separated from the center by five pointed arches, supported on octagonal columns about fifteen feet high, very light and well proportioned, having this singularity, that they are without capitals, the arches springing from the shafts, like the ramifications of a tree, which gives them a beautiful appearance; the arches are about sixteen feet in span: The whole length of the nave is twenty-eight paces, and its width sixteen; the cross aile is twenty-four paces long. The south end of the cross is lighted by one large window of five lights, and two to the east of three lights each; the ailes have each two square windows of three lights: The upper arrangements are regular, consisting of five windows under circular arches. The church is regularly stalled with oak, ornamented with fleur-de-lis, has a pretty small organ, and galleries at the west end: The font is a large black marble laver: The pulpit is placed against the first south pillar. The adjacent ground is called the Anchorage or Anchoritage, where the schoolhouse stands, with the beadle's house and other edifices belonging the church. The steeple was rebuilt in 1740
Gateshead Rectory.
—Dedicated to St Mary.—Bishop of Durham patron.
K. books 27l. 13s. 4d.—Yearly tenths 2l. 15s. 4d. — Pro. ep. 10s.—Pro. arch. 4s.—Pension to Houghton school 2l. 13s. 4d. granted by J. Heath of Kepyer.— Real val. 200l.
RECTORS.
Rob. de Plesuys, sed. vac. an. val. of ch. 26 marcs
Robertus, 1275
Hen. Manselot, 1322
Rich. Kilvington, S. T. P. 1344, p. m. Manselot
Joh. de Castro Barnardi, 1370, p. m. Kilvington
Adam de Fenrother, p. res. Castro Barnardi
Joh. de Castro Barnardi, 1376, p. res. Fenrother
Joh. Bathre, 1379, p. res. Castro Barnardi
Tho. Everard 1380, p. res. Bathre
Will. de Dalington, 1389, p. m. Everard
Joh. de Longley, p. m. Dalington
Will. Malberthorp cl. p. res. Longley
Will. Wandesford, 1410, p. m. Malberthorp
Joh. de Thoralby, 1419, p res. Wandesford
Henry Eton, 1421, p. res. Thoralby
Joh. Bonour, 1427, p. m. Eton
Joh. Lethom, 1435, p. res. Bonour
Thomas Tanfield, 1436, p. res. Lethom
Rob. Mason, LL. D. 1474, p. m. Tanfield
Cha. Mann, 1493, p. m. Mason
John Brown, cl. 1532
Will Bell, S. T. P. 1557, p. res. Brown
Will. Byrche, A. M. 1559
Discretus vir Lanc. Doddisworthe, 19 July, 1564, p. res. Byrche
Will. Hodgeson, predicator 5 Oct. 1571, p. m. Doddisworth
Glem. Colmore, LL. D. 1587
John Hutton, 1595
Thomas Hooke, 25 May, 1612
Jos. Browne, A. M. 18 July, 1620
Thomas Weld, an intrudor, 1657
John Ladler, A. M. 16 March, 1660,—k. Charles II. p' hac vice. See vacant.
John Cave, A. M. 1685
Richard Werge, A. M. p. res. Cave
John Cock, A. M. 1617, p m. Werge
Rob Brograve A. M. 1691, p. depr. Cock
George Tully, A. M. 1691
John Smith, A. M. 12 June, 1695, p. m. Tully
Theo. Pickering, S. T. P. 5 Dec. 1695, p. res. Smith
Leo. Shafto, A. M. 1705, p. res. Pickering
Rob. Stillingfleet, A. M. 1732, p. m. Shafto
Will. Lambe, A. M. 1733
And. Wood, A. M. 7 Sep. 1769, p. m. Lambe
Rich. Fawcett, D. D. 1772, p m. Wood.—Had a dispensation to hold it with the vicarage of Newcastle. He died April 29, 1782
Robt. Thorpe, A. M.
There were four chantries founded in this church.
1. To St Mary.—Ad altare beatae Mariae Virginis in porticu boreall in eccl. &c. & quod post decessum, &c. The inhabitants of Gateshead to present. Value 6l.—15 bishop Skirlaw.
2. St John Baptist and St John Evangelist. In the 16th year of the same prelate, John Dolsonby obtained licence to found this chantry, value 4l. 11s. Vide donatio. 209
Bourne's Newcastle.
3. Chantry of the Holy Trinity.
4. Chantry of St Eloyes.
Inscription behind the organ.
—This steeple was rebuilt A. D. 1740. with the then church-wardens names.
On the new gallery.
—This gallery was built A. D. 1763. with the then church-wardens names.
There are six musical bells in this church, obtained by contribution about the year 1730, to which the corporation of Newcastle and the Trinity-house were principal benefactors: One inscribed
Te deum Laudamus,
1730; another
Vos Jubilate;
a third
Festa Decoro.—T. Seller eborac.
—All the bells were new hung in 1773.
Against the wall of the south aile of the church.
To the Memory of ANDREW WOOD, M. A. Rector of this church Born XXIX May, MDCCXV. Inducted IX Sept. MDCCLXIX. Interred Amidst the Tears of his Parishioners XV March, MDCCLXXII. This Monument of their Esteem Affection and Gratitude Was erected by the People of GATESHEAD.
His body is buried on the left side of the choir as you go to the altar, close by his predecessor Mr Lambe.
An order for the tithe coles of Gateshed.
Md that the Xth day of October, in the year of o'r Lord God M.VC.XXXIX. Whereas discord, clame & suyt haithe ben dependinge bytwixt Sir John Brown clerk, p'son of Gateshed of th'one p'tie, and Will'm Thomlyngson & Will'm Inskip fermers of my lord of Duresme cole mynes wt'in the township & p'ishe of Gateshed on th'oder p'te, of, for, & upon the detynewe of the tiethe coles of the said cole mynes, for the appeasing of all such discord and suyt had and maid bitwixt the said p'ties, it is agreade & ordered by the consent of bothe p'ties in the presence of Mr Doctor Hyndmer chauncelor of Duresme, the daye & yeare above written in maner and forme followyng, that is to saye, the said W. Tomlyngson & W. Inskip & either of them confessythe & grauntythe that the saide p'son shall have in recompence of his said tiethe coles for every pyt thre holl days work in the year wtin the said cole myne, to work & to drawe coles at the coles of the said p'son or his assignes. And the said W. & W. to fynd the said p'son cole rope, corff, shoile, & barrowe ev'ry daye of the said thre days; & the said p'son to be no further charget, but only what workmens wags for the said thre dais: The fyrst daye of the said thre days to begin afore Xrenmes next insuyng after the dait above wrytton: The seconde daye to be had & taken afore Candlemes then next after: And the third daye of the said 3 days to be had and taken within one yere immediately ensewinge the date hereof. Alwais providet, that the said p'son shall have fre libertie for his workmen to work & drawe as many chalders of coles of ev'ry of the said pitts as ar dalye or any daye drawn for & to the said Wil. & Wil. during the said thre days.
Randal's MSS.
Book of Rates.
 
Books of rates.
Rental of lands.
1st
assm.
2d
assm.
Gateshead parish
11
5
4
2115
0
0
14
5
3
10
16
0
Rent to the bishop
60
0
0
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Rectory and hospital
0
16
8
120
0
0
0
17
0
0
12
10
1719. Milbanke's pt of St Edmund's pays p' ann. 9l. 12s. to Rob. Oats, of which Mr Cotesworth 6l. 8s. and Dr Thomlinson 3l. 4s.
1719. Paid for the manors of Gateshead and Whickham rent to bishop 235l. 11s. 4d. free from deductions.
Grey's MSS.
Land tax at 4s. in the pound.
County rate at 6s. 8d.
Gateshead high-ward
208
4
0
4
6
0
Ditto low-ward
158
6
0
4
6
0
Mann's MSS.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population from 1660 to 1679
3310
647
3379
from 1760 to 1779
3633
1224
4675
Increase
323
577
1296
Burials in the last year 245.—Computed number of inhabitants 7350.
Dean and chapter rents—Gateshead
6
3
10
 
Fishings in Tyne
2
19
4
 
Ferry-boat
0
6
8
. In the church-yard is the monument of one Robert Trollop, a famous architect; it is a square building, the lower part of brick, the upper of stone, and of that heavy taste which prevailed about the time of king James I. when Trollop lived. It was embellished around the top under the cornice with several scripture passages, in gold letters on a black ground, which in some places are still to be discovered. A traditional account says, that formerly there stood, on the north side, a statue in the attitude of pointing towards the town hall of Newcastle, which is nearly opposite, under the feet, the following lines:
Here lies Robert Trollop
Who made yon' stones roll up
When death took his soul up
His body fill'd this Hole up.
Which statue and inscription, if such there ever were, have long been demolished. The family of Harris now use the burial place.
It may not be improper to observe, that Daniel de Foe resided in Gateshead whilst he wrote his much admired tale of the adventures of Robinson Crusoe; the chief incidents of which, it is said, he gained from one Selkirk who was shipwrecked on the island of Juan Fernandez; and it is reported, with some disgrace to the memory of that ingenious man, that he obtained Selkirk's minutes under pretence of writing his story, and applied them to his own emolument.
JARROW
The Parish of
JARROW.
We now approach Jarrow, once a place of great consequence, and of distant antiquity. Little more remained of this once famous town when we visited it in 1782, than two or three mean cottages, the distracted ruins of the old monastery, the church, a venerable pile, then patched up so as to retain few traces of its original figure, and the capacious haven, now called the
Slake,
washed full of sand, and left dry by the river Tyne at ebb of tide.
The monasteries of Weremouth and Jarrow were the most ancient of any within the limits of this county: That of Weremouth, dedicated to St Peter, we are told, was built in the fourth year of king Egfrid, at the instance of Benedict a monk, who became the superior or governor of both houses: The monastery of Jarrow, dedicated to St Paul, was erected in the fifteenth year of the same king; the place being then called
Gyrwy
or
Girvy.
Retirement and seclusion were not the principles which directed the choice of this situation; for if the original monastery was placed where the present ruins are, the ground is elevated, and forms a curvature towards the great bay called the Slake, which ancient authors tell us was the haven of Egfrid, where, consistent with the burthen of vessels used in that age, a thousand sail might lie moored in the greatest security. Leland says, Jarrow is distant from Newcastle four miles
Lel. Col. vol. ii. p. 302, 303.
, but by land it is seven, and more by water: There is no ground near the present remains of a more solemn or secluded situation which can answer the description given by Roger Hoveden, for he calls it
Monasterium Doni Amnis,
from a rivulet which runs from the southward into the Slake
Ex Historia Rogeri Hovedini
DCCXCIIII.
Portus Ecgfridi forsan sinus de Garaw, ubi monaster. Bedae.—Predicti pagani, portum Ecgfridi regis vastantes, monasterium doni amnis praedaverunt.
Id est Tini quemadmodum est in exemplari ventans donus flu. qui per Garaw, vel potius per Dancaster in Tinam descendit.
In the year 703, St Benedict, an English abbot, rested in the Lord. He was nobly born, in his youth a soldier, then minister to king Oswy, and having great possessions, resolved to leave the world for Christ, and going to Rome, at his return had the land of forty families given him by Egfrid king of Northumberland, to build a monastery to St Peter, at the mouth of the river Were, and another in honour of St Paul at Girroy. —Monast. Angl. Stevens, p. 21. Reg. 3, Eccl. Durh. p. 62.—He is said to be the first who brought the art of making glass into England.
Girwy & Girway-lond A. S.
regionem palustrem notat,
a Gyran Gyras
Paludes
Geras
Palus,
Ger
lutum, Skin. Lex. Etym.
This derivation agrees well with the situation of the place, it standing on the southwest side of a large body of water called Jarrow Slake, which is supplied with water at high tide from Tyne river.
. The descriptions given by ancient writers, of religious edifices, nearly of the date of this monastery, which arose about 684, lead us not to expect one remaining trace of the first structure, without we should discover it in the repositories of the dead; for as such fabrics chiefly consisted of timber and reeds, the sacrilege committed by barbarians in repeated invasions, would most probably sweep away every part thereof. In the fifth year of Ethelred's reign after his restoration, and during the episcopacy of bishop Higbald, the Danes and rovers from the north entered the river Tyne, and laid this monastery in ashes
Portus Ecfridi sinus qui a Tina at Girwi penetrat. penetrabat & interius usq. ad
Bilton,
pene 3 pas. Millibus super Girwi, quo antiquitus & naviculae pervenerunt. Fluviolus hunc sinum intrat.—Anno sequente dum pagani portum Ecfridi regis, hoc est Girvi vastantes, monasterium ad ostium Tini amnis depraedarentur, dux eorum ibidem crudeli nece interiit. Eodem tempore depopulata est ecclesia Lindisfarn.—
Lel. Col. vol. i. p.
328.
Bilton, we presume, is meant for a place called Bill, where is a quay for craft or small vessels; it is situated there on a curvature of the river Tyne, which at that place takes a northern direction, and leaves a shore formed like a crescent.
Ex chronico incerti Auctoris apud Whitby.—
Lel. Col. vol. iv. p.
42.
Famosum hoc monasterium, cujus Baeda alumnus erat, semel atque iterum a Danis intrantibus Tinam, ita depopulatum fuit, ut locis aliquot vestigia tantum antiqui operis & structurae appareant. Monachi, qui jam tantum tres caenobiolum inhabitant, monstrant Bedae oratorium & arulam, in cujus medio pro gemma ostentant fragmentulum serpentini aut viridis marmoris.
Inscriptio ibidem reperta in quadrato saxo majusculis literis Romanis sculpta 'Dedicatio Basilicae S. Pauli viiii calendas Maij, anno xvo Ecfridi regis. Ceolfridi abbatis ejusdem. q. m. ecclesiae deo autore conditoris anno iiii.
Ceolfridus.
Jubente pariter, & juvante Benedicto monasterium S. Pauli fundavit, perfecit, rexit, ac deinde utrique monasterio viginti & octo annis solerti regimine praesuit. Tres Bibliothecas acquisivit, duas utrique monasterio reliquit novus abbas, jubente Ceolfrido, electus est antequam Romam versus proficisceretur. Eligitur ergo
petbritus, vir bonus & justus, qui erat discipulus Sigfridi abbatis, ad cujus consecrationem Acca episcopus invitatus est.—
Lel. Col.
Waltherus comes Northumbr. dedit Tinemuth cum corpore S. Oswini monachis de Girwy. Quo tempore obtulit & Morekarum puertum monachi disciplina erudiendum.
Pauca subscribent donat. nomina.
Alcredus comes, Uthredus frater Morekari, Liwulf pater Morekari, Leobwinus decanus Dunelmen. Gilbertus nepos Walkeri episcopi. Alwinus miles, Kenulphus miles, Wulstanus miles. Swartebrant preost.
Lel. Col. vol. ii. p.
538.
Comites Northumb. donaverunt monachis Girwicen. ecclesiam S. Oswini de Tinemuth, unde reliquiae S. Oswini in Girvium translatae, quae tamen postea Tinemutham retulerunt.—
Lel. Col. vol. i. p.
427.
. It is probable the monks would return to their ruined seat after the retreat of the invaders, and restore their habitation and church: But their peace was not of long continuance; for in the seventh year of Osbert's reign, the Danes again entered the Tyne, practising their accustomed rapine and devastation, and laying waste all the religious houses. In the interval, whilst the See or episcopal seat was fixed at Chester, we may reasonably presume the monastery at Jarrow was again restored; and from the stile and order of architecture, we are led to conjecture, that part of the structures standing at the time we visited them, were of that age: But the religious body had not yet sustained the last of their misfortunes, for though subject to all the miseries of the provincial war which distracted this part of the island, during the struggles between the Saxon and Danish sovereigns, when they were frequently pillaged and laid under contributions. Upon the enraged Normans marching northward, and finding the city of Durham deserted, and the country evacuated, they put their sacrilegious hands to this monastery, and notwithstanding they boasted of the dispensation of the gospel, yet, as savage as the unenlightened barbarians of the north, they reduced the sacred edifices again to ashes. Having advanced to this period, we should now pay attention to the venerable character of Bede, and present to the reader some short anecdotes of his life.
This holy monk was born about the year 672, in a part of this county adjoining the river Were, where the monastery of Weremouth afterwards had lands; that house not being founded till the year 674, according to his own account thereof: Much controversy has happened relative to the place of his nativity, but it is well settled by historians, that he was born in the district before mentioned: At seven years of age he was taken into the monastery at Weremouth, and under the care of abbot Benedict and his successor Ceolfrid received his education; at the age of nineteen was ordained deacon, and became exemplary at that early stage for his piety and studious life: The attention paid to him by all ranks of people, so far from moving him with vanity, or tempting him to negligence, seemed only to excite him to a more eager pursuit of learning, and stricter rules of religious conduct, insomuch that his character was held forth as a pattern of Christian virtues, and his life as an example of monastic duty. About the year 685, in the fifteenth of king Egfrid, the monastery of Jarrow was founded under the conduct and superintendency of Benedict: Bede attained his thirtieth year before he was ordained priest, which office was performed by John of Beverley, then bishop of Hexham, who had been his preceptor, and entertained great affection for him; much of his excellent character was deduced from maxims instilled by that great teacher, which he constantly professed to follow as the chief principles of his conduct. His great diligence and application, comprehensive genius, and extensive learning, rendered his name so famous, that he became the subject of attention in foreign countries, particularly at Rome, where pope Sergius, struck with the accounts he heard of this illustrious scholar, wrote to his superior the abbot Ceolfrid to send him thither, that he might converse with him on some momentous subjects. Bede, as singular in his modesty as accomplishments, received the summons without any of that emotion this flattering distinction would have roused in many other minds; but attentive alone to his studies, and the due performance of religious duties, he was not to be allured from his cell by the smiles of potentates, and the courtesy of princes. It has been remarked by many authors, that in pursuance of Ceolfrid's command, he was ordained priest preparatory to his journey to Rome; but why he did not obey the call, has not been accounted for by those writers, further than that it is observed the pope died in 701, which event might not be known in England at the time of our monk's receiving ordination. No notice is taken of the foregoing circumstances by Bede in any of his writings, and the whole rests chiefly on the account given by William of Malmsbury and his copyists. It is certain he shewed at all times a particular desire for privacy and retirement, an avidity for learning, and an incessant application to study, together with a warm affection for his native country; such might operate powerfully with his own mind against the journey, whilst the consequence he was of to the northern clergy, might influence the great people to sue for his release from an engagement so disagreeable to his own wishes; and contrary to the interests of his country. By remaining in his monastery, and habituating himself to a recluse life, he had sufficient time to make himself master of every branch of literature which at that period had gained a footing in this island; and his acquisitions were made without any apparent desire of same or promotion, but merely to render himself useful to society, and for the promotion of religion and virtue. It was from such principles that he applied himself for several years in collecting materials for his Ecclesiastical History, which received in the early ages of the English church infinite applause, and at this time is esteemed an inestimable record; in the composition of which great work the several legendary and miraculous relations are considered as merely the errors of the age, and not blots of the excellent pen which related them. Though Bede was bred at Weremouth, yet it is admitted by all writers he took up his residence at Jarrow, soon after that monastery was founded, and the same superior governing both houses, much intercourse was had between the religious societies; so that we see him at periods spoken of by some writers as a monk of Weremouth, and by others of Jarrow, which variance is easily reconciled when we consider the before-related fact. Bede published his Ecclesiastical History in 731, when, according to his own account, he was fifty-nine years of age; but before this he had written many other books, on a variety of subjects, a catalogue of which he subjoined to that great work. There was a strict friendship subsisting between Egbert bishop of York and Bede, which produced a letter from our monk, descriptive of the tempers and characters of both, and giving a picture of the manners of the age, and the state of the church, such as no other authority supplies; full of servour, religious censure, virtuous zeal, and bold condemnation. The letter discovers the collective mind of the author, whilst his prophetic reasonings and the distant consequences he deduced and predicted from the inordinances described, shew the shrewdness of his judgment, and the capaciousness of his observation: He foresaw the multiplying of religious foundations, and the want of discipline which daily broke in upon the conventual rules, would bring on the destruction which in after ages took place. When he wrote this epistle he was in a bad state of health, his death from that time advancing by a gradual decay; yet in all the progressive stages of the disease he did not neglect his duty, he employed the usual hours in writing, in study, in devotion, in exhortation of the brethren, and teaching his disciples of the convent. He endured the attacks of death with great fortitude, exemplary piety, and holy resignation, and expired on the 26th of May, being the feast of the Ascension, in the year 735
Epilogum de obitu Bedae, ex sine libri 1i Gulielm. a Maildulphi curia de reg.—Script. Cuthwinus discip. Bedae.—
Vide Smith's Life of Bede, and page
259
of this volume.
. He was interred in the church of his own monastery at Jarrow, the place of his burial being much reverenced in after ages, and resorted to by religious persons on the anniversary of his death. His remains were afterwards removed to Durham, as before related
A. D. 1074. Aldwinus presbyter de genere merc. prior de Winchelescumbe iter ad transumbranos direxit. Walcherus episcopus Dunelmen. dedit locum habitandi Aldwino in Girwi. Aldwinus culmen de lignis intormibus &
aeno solis antiqui monaster. parietibus in Girwi superposuit. Multi ad Aldwinum ex australibus partibus, pancrab aquilonar. confluxerunt. Cum enim ipsos eccl. reaedisicare & destructa monach. habitacula videret velle reficere, dedit illis ipsam villam Girwi cum appendiciis, scilicet Preston, Muneccatton, Henworth, Heabern, Wyeston, Heartedon ut opera perficere, & sine indigentia vivere possent. Aldwinus adjuncto sibi quodam eletico Turgoto Mailros in Scotia, relicto Girwi, petiit. Alduinus multas ibi injurias a Scotto perpessus, rediit Dunel. jubente Walchero episcopo, ubi donatus est antiquis monasterii S. Petri, de Weremuth ruinis ubi habitacula de Virgis faciebat, et Turgotum comitem suum monach. habitu vessivit.
Lel. Col. vol. ii. p.
537.
Is (Remfridus) quippe apud locum, qui Gerva dicitur in Nordanhumbrorum partibus, prius aliquanto tempore commoratus, ibique divinae contemplationi vacans solitarius extitit, &c. Ut multi fratres ad eum postea consluxerunt. Locus (Gerva) autem ille, quamvis ad ejus introitum fuisset serarum & avium habitatio
um tamen in eo extitit servorum dei ibi degentium fortilis constipatio.—
Ibid. vol. iii.
.
Soon after bishop Walcher was settled in the See, he invited certain Benedictines to take up their abode at Jarrow; they found the monastic buildings in ruin, though it appears some walls were yet standing, over which they formed a roof of wood, and thatched it with straw, where they renewed divine offices. The society increasing rapidly, the bishop granted various lands for their support, and they began to rebuild their church. The reader will revert to the account given of this society under the annals of bishop Walcher. Bishop William de Carilepho confirmed to the monks of Jarrow the endowment made by his predecessor; and soon after removing the seculars from the cathedral church, he translated the monks of this house to Durham, and from thenceforth Jarrow became only a cell to the monastery of Durham. When Galfrid de Burdon was elected prior of Durham, on his predecessor's resignation, he had this cell with the manor of Wardle assigned for his maintenance. At the suppression of religious houses Jarrow was valued at 38 l. 14s. 4d. according to Dugdale, and 40l. 7s. 8d. Speed, and was granted out in the 36th year of Henry VIII. to William lord Eure
One-half belongs to William Hargrave of Shawdon,
esq
one-quarter to General Cuthbert Ellison of London; one-eighth to Sir Tho. Clavering, and one-eighth to Mrs Elizabeth Montague; and the improp
ated lands are possessed in the same proportion.—
Rev. Mr Glover's Note.
.
The ruins of the old monastery lie to the south of the church, on a ridge of land inclining gently towards the flat or slake, which is washed by the tide; no part remains so perfect as to point out to what distinct office it belonged: At the west end is a gabel, in which there is a round arched window, composed of that species of architecture which prevailed in the Saxon time, and we venture to alledge was antecedent to the devastation made by the Norman soldiers: The uppermost ornament is of the dental figure, succeeded below by zig-zags, and the lowest members of the arch, plain circular rolls falling within each other: Allowing to this apartment such antiquity, it will follow from the degree of magnificence described, that it belonged to some chief apartment of this monastery; and a religious house placed on the haven of Egfrid, and of importance for ages after his time, most probably was marked with many distinguished privileges and honours, in consequence of its public and important situation
Mr Grose, who visited Jarrow in 1773, says,
Several pieces of short columns with Saxon capitals lie scattered amongst the rubbish.
Tanner in a note makes a query whether Jarrow was not granted afterwards, viz. 7th king Edward VI. in Simon Welbury and Ch. Moreland. Mr Grose says,
At present it is said to belong to — Clavering,
esq
and — Bonner,
esq
of Callerton.
Tanner's notes. Vide Mon. Angl. i. 41, 42, and 384 —Lel. Col. vol. ii. p. 348, 349, vol. iii. p. 42.— Ven. B
dae Vit. Abbatum.—Wilkinsi Concil. vol. i. p. 63.
William of Malmsbury says, a spirit of ignorance and laziness invaded this island, and there was a general decay of all useful knowledge and neglect of history. Some small remains of the monastic life were kept up in these parts, and this town was assigned by bishop Walcher for the abode of the monks.
Reg. 3. Eccl. Dunelm. p. 62. The finances of Durham priory being at a low ebb, and not sufficient to maintain the burdens of its subordinate cells, and especially those of Weremouth and Jarrow, which were already great, and daily growing greater. The prior and convent therefore sent their cons
er William Ebchester to inform the bishop (Langley) more particularly of the state of the cells, and to beg his good advice and assistance to apply a proper remedy to their pressing necessities. What the issue of this application was we know not.
Reg. 3. Eccl'ia Dunelm. p. 62 dat 2 Nov. A. D. 1424. Litera directa epo. Dunelm. pro consilio suo pro relevamine cellarum de Jarrow et Weremoth.—
Randal's MSS.
. The entrance into the church was by a low porch with a circular arch, on the north jamb of which was the figure of a crosier staff, stripped from some of the ancient tombs: The descent into the nave was by three deep steps, on the side walls of which were two pointed arches, that to the north built up, the other opening into a porch used as a vestry room; the groins were sprung from brackets, and the span was about twenty feet: The nave was twenty-eight paces in length, and only six in width; so that, from the height of the side walls, which were nearly thirty feet, and the small irregular windows scattered on each side, the edifice had a very singular appearance: Some of the windows were under circular arches, others pointed, and all the walling so patched and irregular, that it was not to be distinguished to what age any particular part of it belonged: The congregation had deserted the nave for some years, perhaps from dread of being buried in its ruins, and the chancel alone was used for divine service. Fixed in the south-east corner of the nave was a mount, whereon a stone pulpit formerly stood. The rood-loft remained, being a gallery of wood work across the church, above the entrance into the chancel, on which were the remains of gaudy painting; here the rood or crucifixion was displayed in ancient times, together with other paintings or effigies of holy personages; and here also the minstrels performed their part in the service. In the north wall, cut on a stone which passed quite through it, was that curious inscription mentioned by many writers, and learnedly commented on
In the copy of the inscription on which the editor of Camden comments, the addition of a stroke, which is not in the original, occasioned him much trouble, and to reconcile the line not being a numeral, he was obliged to read the royal founders name Jecfridi; for if the line was added to the numerals it would have made 16, a year beyond the date of that reign.
Leland read the inscription without that stroke or letter.
Mr Grose transcribed the inscription in the same manner we have done. Vide Antiq. Eng. & Wales.
The reader is requested to advert to the northern pronunciation of the following words and the preceding doubts will be solved.
Edward
Jedward and Yedward.—Vide Shakespeare, 1st part Hen. IV. act i.
Earnest
Jearnest
Earth
Jearth
Earle
Jearle with many others.
In the primitive times the greater churches were called basilicae, either because the basilicae, which were the stately buildings where the magistrates held their courts of justice, were upon the conversion of the Gentiles turned into churches by the Christians, as Ausonius says,
Basilica olim negotiis, plena nunc votis,
or because they were built in an oblong form like the Basilicae.
The inscription round one of the bells is in the old Saxon character, and is a dedication to St Paul.
The church has lately been rebuilt, and some inscriptions were discovered, but of what kind was carefully concealed by those into whose hands they fell. The inscription mentioned in the text is replaced in a situation to protect it from injury.
Mr Grose says,
Various are the superstitious and ridiculous stories told of this place, among which are these, that it was never dark in Jarrow church, and that the windows were of horn, and not of glass; the latter perhaps relates to some almost forgotten tradition concerning the introduction of glass by Benedict.
—There is an engraving of the chair in the Antiquarian Repertory.
Magistri cellae de Jarrowe.
Alex. de Lamesly oc. infra Idus oct. an. 1333.—Joh. de Norton, oc. June, a'o Thomae 8vo viz. 1353.— Jo
. Durham, oc. 4 Jan. 1437.
E. copyh. b. of bishop Hatfield, halm. ap. Cestre. Pre'ntat. est q'd Joh. de Norton mag'r de Jarow, W's Masham, d'n's W. Vavasour, Joh. de Lomley monachi fugant in Weremam.
Jarrow curacy, ded. St Paul. Jarrow pr. olim propr. Hen. Ellison,
esq
and others patrons, cum Nether Heworth capella destructa.
Proc. ep. 2s.—Cert. val. 46l. 1s.—A peculiar belonging to the dean and chapter of Durham, in the deanry of Chester.—Not in charge.
Curates.
Joh. Hutchinson, oc. 27 June, 1566.—Jasper Hoppringle, 1573.—Tho. Maslet, 1578.—John Biers.—Joh. Walker, 3 Oct. 1633.—Francis Battie, an intruder, oc. 1657, ejected for non-conformity.—Geo. Howie, 1697.—Rich Roberts, 1703.—Mordica Carey
M. Carey was scholar of Trinity College, Cambridge, master of Morpeth school 1724, appointed 22 March, 173
, bishop of Clonfert and Kilmach-Drugh in Ireland, in the room of Dr And. Synge, promoted to the see of Cloyne, and afterwards translated, 20 Dec. 1735, to the bishopric of Killala and Achonry, in the room of Rob. Clayton, translated to Corke and Ross. Ob. 1751.
Mich's 1697. The argument before the barons of the exchequer in the case of Jarrow Slake, upon shewing cause against the decree of that court, and also against a perpetual injunction to be made for the town of Newcastle against the dean and chapter aforesaid.
The dean and chapter's council were Mr Sol. General, Mr Serj. Wright, Sir W. Williams Sir T. Powis, Mr Dormer, Mr Brown, Mr Turner, Mr Phipps, and Mr Bowes, to shew cause against the decree made the last term, for quieting the plaintiffs in the possession of their franchises, &c. according to the prayer of their bill, and that the defendants may be stopt from erecting any shore or wharf at Jarrow Slake. They thereupon insisted on these three points: 1st, That the court ought to make no decree upon this bill, 2d, That they ought not to grant a perpetual injunction. 3d, That before they make their decree absolute with a perpetual injunction, they ought to grant a new trial, or a reasonable time to make out a right at law.
The rehearsal of these arguments is voluminous, I shall only select the heads of each subject. Newcastle prescribes that no ballast wharf was ever erected at Jarrow: A negative prescription. The thing complained of, is the erection of a public nuisance upon a public navigable river, for which they alledge no special right in themselves but as conservators: Should have prosecuted in the king's name. They make no title to the soil. The decree is to quiet them in all the liberties prescribed to in the bill, the issues related to Jarrow Slake only: The decree would bind the dean and chapter's right in all other parts of the river, and to quiet the plaintiffs in their pretended privileges from Sparhawk to Heddon Streams, fifteen miles. The only ground of their right is the pretended conservatorship; which must be derived from the crown, and that by record, which they shew not. Second general head: The doctrine of perpetual injunctions. They are new, and nothing found of them in our old books. Originated on trials of ejectment, and devised to prevent multiplicity of suits for the same thing. Judge Hale, the oracle of the law, would never confine a man's right to one trial. It was a new notion for courts of equity to lay such fetters upon the common law. Third general head▪ Several cases were cited where new trials were granted, and affidavits of several records being discovered since the trial. Counsel then stated, 1st, That
Newcastle
itself was a corporation within the time of memory, and so incapable of prescribing time beyond memory. That its ancient name was
Monkchester,
and assumed the name of
Newcastle
from the castle built there by William Rufus; was afterwards forfeited by Rob. de Mowbray earl of Northumberland, and remained in the crown till king John granted it, which is time within memory, the time of memory being to be computed from the beginning of the reign of king Richard I. 2d, That commissions of conservatorship have been frequently granted from the crown to the mayor, &c. whereby it appears they acted from time to time under the crown, and so were not conservators by prescription. 3d, That the church of Durham has time beyond memory constantly enjoyed the south side of the river Tyne
usq. ad filum aquae,
or at least a third part of it, and enjoyed the conservatorship on their own side▪ 4th, That ballast wharfs have not been used upon this river for above one hundred years, and so cannot be prescribed to time beyond memory. 5th, That the corporation has claimed them as proprietors of the soil, and not as conservators, &c. Several records were produced and read: 1. A commission of conservatorship 45th k. Edw. III. to the mayor and others. 2. Another commission 32d k. Henry VI. directed to the mayor and others for conservatorship of the river inter Sparhawk & Heddon Streams: The very bounds prescribed to in their bill. 3. K. Henry I. confirmation to the bishop,
de consuetud. in aquis Sancti Cuthberti de Tina, quas Ranulphus epus dirationavit adversus Northumbrenses, in sua & boranum suorum presentia.
. Record 18th k. Edw. III. of a verdict and judgment obtained by the bishop upon a special commission before his own justices, against the king's commissioners for trespasses done by them in intermedling in the conservatorship of the south side of the river. 5. K. Hen. II. his grant or confirmation
quod epus haberet libere
ori
ice & quiete applicationes navium ex parte sua in Tina sicut habentur ex altera parte.
6. K. Rich. II. his confirmation to the bishop
de medietatibus aquarum de Tine & Tese cum applicatione oneratione & exoneratione naviunt batellor,
&c. 7. K. Rich. II. his other grant and confirmation to the bishop
pro oneratione & exoneratione carbonum merchandizarum & aliarum rerum quarumcunq. absq. impedimento hominum villae Novi Castri
uper Tinam.
These words
aliarum rerum quarumcunq.
were insisted did include the unloading ballast, and that does make a ballast wharf. 8. A record 2d k. Hen. V. shewing that the bishop upon a solemn trial at the King's-bench bar, upon an issue joined before the lord chancellor, and transmitted thither by order of parliament, and tried before a jury of Westmoreland and Cumberland, recovered against the town of Newcastle a third part of Tyne Bridge,
cum franchesiis jurisdictionibus & juribus regatibus.
as also four marks damages for usurping his privileges upon Tyne Bridge, in building the tower on the south side thereof, and removing the two boundering stones called
St Cuthbert's stones:
Whereupon the mayor is adjudged to bring the stones back and lay them where he
ound them, at his own cost, for perpetual boundaries. By this record the corporation pleads inter alia, that king John and his predecessors, kings of England, were time beyond memory seised of the town of Newcastle, and the whole river of Tine, and the whole bridge, and being so seised granted it to them, whereby it appears they derived their original right from king John, which is time within memory. The dean and chapter's council urged this record as an estopple against their prescribing in themselves. 9. Act of parl. 1o Mariae, for reuniting the town of Gateshead with the water and bridge to the county palatines jurisdiction, and for repealing the act made 7th king Edw. IV. Besides the former, many others were ready to be produced. 1.
Recordatio marchiarum,
which Mr Serj. Wright advised not to produce, because it appearing thereby that the earl of Northumberland was seised on the north side of the river, and that bishop Ranulph was seised on the south side,
comitive:
This word he expounded to import
quasi comites,
or as tenants in common, which he feared might give them some colour of right on the south side; though others thought that
comitive
might there signify that they were each of them seised
jure comitatus;
others that it might signify that they were both seised thereof at one and the same time; which if so, would be false in fact, for Ranulph did not come to the See till after deposing earl Rob de Mowbray.
Comitiva, est dignitas & munus comitis inferioribus comitatus.—Spelm. Gloss.
2. A record annexed to the
record, marchiar
giving an account historically how the town of Newcastle and county of Northumberland came to the Mowbrays, and were forfeited by them; of its name of Monkchester and when it took the name of Newcastle. &c. 3. An inspeximus of king John's charter of incorporation to Newcastle, and all their other charters till the time of king Henry VI. whereby it appears they never had the port granted to them as appurtenant to it, nor the conservatorship of it. Whereupon the defendant's counsel prayed a new trial. The arguments were long, and would afford little pleasure to the reader, I shall therefore only select such special matters from thence as may seem important. As to the issues being particular to Jarrow Slake, and the decree general to the whole river, the plaintiff's counsel gave no answer. But the lord chief baron wondered how it had crept into the decree, and agreed that the decree could only be particular as to Jarrow Slake. They gave no answer to the objection that the plaintiffs ought to derive their conservatorship from the crown. The chief baron cited many instances of pepetual injunctions; but it was agreed they have been only in use since the reign of king Charles I. As to the records, the plaintiff's counsel alledged, that it did not appear any thing was done under the commissions of conservatorship, or that the mayor of Newcastle ever accepted them; to which it was answered, the acceptance must be presumed, if nothing is shewn to the contrary. As to the 2d article, the record of king Henry I. being of date beyond memory, ought not to be given in evidence, without shewing an allowance of it in eyre: Cases cited to the contrary in answer. 3d article: Opposed the reading of it, affirming it to be only an action of trespass prosecuted by the bishop, for trespass done in taking away ships, &c. and being betwixt other parties ought not to be read. This the chief baron overruled, but observed it was a strange sort of commission, being a special commission of oyer and terminer, to hear and determine one particular trespass, which he thought the king himself had not a power to grant.— Mr Dormer answered, that there were special customs in the county palatine different from the common and ordinary customs of the realm, and his lordship's commission when he sat there as judge was
ad audiendum & terminand. secundum legem terrae & consuetud. Dunelm.
4th article: Mr Mulso objected, that upon attempts by the bishop, the corporation brought a
scire facias
to repeal the last grant, a copy whereof was said to be produced at the hearing; and since the corporation have had the enjoyment. Art. 5. The lord chief baron produced his notes, which he had taken upon hearing the cause of king John's charter, whence he observed that king John granted
probis hominibus ejusdem, inter alia. omnes easdem libertates & liberas consuetudines quas habere consueverunt tempore Hen.
2.
patris nostri:
And said, he looked upon that charter of king John's to be only a charter of confirmation. Serj. Lutwich likewise insisted that this proves their incorporation time beyond memory. The objections to the stat. 1 Mar. over-ruled. The lord chief baron then read notes of a trial in which he was concerned as counsel in
Riley's Placita Parl. fo.
25, the corporation of Newcastle against the prior of Tynmouth. To which it was answered, the prior of Tynmouth there justifies taking wreck, making forstallage, &c. under a charter granted him by king Rich. I. which he insisted to be precedent to any liberties granted to Newcastle, &c.—The town of Newcastle did not prosecute the prior of Tynmouth on their own behalf, but in the name of the king, setting forth that the king ought to have
totum portum in aqua de Tyne, a Mari usq. ad Hedavin Streams,
and claimed no interest in the port then as they do now; for in this record they plead, that wreck
specialiter pertinet ad regem,
and that the king ought to have
thorag
naviu
i & batellorum in aqua de Tine ascendendo versus Novum Castrum & descend
n
o versus Mare, libere ver terras dominorum quorumcunq.
and that he ought to receive at his port 4d. for every oar, and 2d. for skullers for his duty of
thorage.
Issues were granted and tried. 1. Whether the defendants could lawfully erect and use a ballast key at Jarrow Slake, without the complainant's licence. 2 Whether the erecting such key would be a damage to the river Tyne, or the navigation thereof, or to the port of Newcastle.
Bourne, in his History of Newcastle, p. 164. 17 Mar. 1697, dean and chapter of Durham and Sam. Shepherd petitioned and appealed to the house of lords against the decree, 7 Maij, 1698. On hearing counsel it the lords' bar, on the petition and appeal, it was ordained and adjudged that the same be dismissed that house, and the decree confirmed.
Bourne, p 172, also says,
In going down the water we meet with several keys, as Winkemley, Bill key, Willington key, Hebbourn key, &c. When the hoastmen renewed their charter, they had licence to send coals above the Bill, and Mr Cole procured a shore at
Friar Goose,
Mr Henry Chapman procured a shore upon
Heworth
grounds, and Mr Rob. Brandling with much ado got leave to build a shore upon his own ground at
Fellin.
In the mean time the tenants of the dean and chapter at Durham took liberty to throw their ashes into the river, which did much damage to the bar. Upon this Mr Leonard Carr and Mr Cuth. Bewick complained, and the town caused them to lay them upon the land, of which they have made mighty heaps. When king James I. came to the crown he was pleased to be bountiful to his countrymen; among the rest Sir Henry Gibb being one of his officers, he bestowed upon him the lordship of Jarrow, and he would have procured a shore there to cast ballast; but although he had the favour of the king, yet the town used such means and gave such reasons to his majesty and the council, that they found it detrimental to the town, and especially to the river, so that he was utterly hindred and disappointed.
It is observable that in the commission of oyer and terminer, 18th k. Edw. III. before referred to, the articles of trade mentioned are, "sea coals, marle or lime stones, small wood or fuel, timber for building, iron, corn, victuals▪ and other goods and merchandize." Carbones maritimos, marleram, petras, buscam, macremium ferrum blada victualia & alia, &c.—
Rot. Bury, Sch. xvj Ao xio Randal's MSS.
, A. M. 1722.—Rob. Wilson, A. M. 1724, p. res. Carey—Joh. Mills, A. B. 1751, p. m. Wilson.—Wm Glover, p. m. Mills.
Heworthechapel. Curates:
Rob. Abell, 1395.—Joh. Walker, 1633.—
Randal's MSS.
: Some variances have appeared in the observations of those who have spoken of it; when we visited Jarrow it stood as follows:
P. DEDICATIO BASILICAE SCI PAVLI VIIII KL MAI ANNO XV ECFRIDI REG — CEOLFRIDI ABB EIVSDEM Q Q. ECCLES DO AVCTORE CONDITORIS ANNO IIII.
The first character has been omitted by all the copyists, which we presume is a compound meant for an invocation, and signifies
Propitietur Deus:
Below the third line the stone is rough, as if it had suffered an obliteration: The whole inscription is in Roman characters except one Saxon ∊ and two square or black letter O's; from whence, and the situation of the stone, one readily determines the inscription to be of equal date with the repairs which were made after the Normans destroyed the monastery, and that it was only a modern memorial of the antiquity of the foundation. Some of the religious had figured the plastering of the north wall, to make the sun-beams from one of the windows serve as a dial to point out the hour of the day. You advance to the chancel under the archings of the tower; the pillars very low, ill proportioned, and square, with capitals remarkably heavy and plain; the arches circular, and without ornament; the dome vaulted with stone and rib'd, the groins rising from the corners, and the ribs uniting in the center: The circumstance of the pillars not standing square, but forming an oblong north and south, was remarkable; the width of this part was only five paces. The tower standing in the center induces us to conclude that formerly this church was in the form of a cross, and it is probable, from outward appearances, that the nave had side ailes. We do not know one instance where the tower stands between the chancel and nave that there is not or anciently was a cross aile, and few have the tower in that situation but churches of more than ordinary consequence. The length of the chancel from the tower to the altar rails is ten paces, and the width only about five paces, stalled on each side with old carved oak work: The east window consisted of three lights under a pointed arch. On the north side there were two windows, one under a circular arch, and the other a pointed arch, one window to the south close by the tower, having also a pointed arch; all which circumstances shew the edifice had undergone innumerable alterations, and indeed we considered no part so ancient as the tower, which it is presumed was the chief of what remained after the devastation committed by the Normans. We found no remarkable sculptures here save a sepulchral one, which had the figure of a burning taper, with expanded wings. What, was shewn as the greatest curiosity, and is carefully kept in the vestry-room, is a great two-armed chair, said to have been the common seat of Bede, and which has remained there since his time: It is of oak, and appears as rude as if hewn out with an ax, except that at the top of the back the cross piece is mortised to the standards or upright parts, which also serve for legs; these with the seat and sides are very ancient, but the back, according to the information of the person who shewed it, is modern: It is now become very rough and uneven from the superstition of people, who, by carrying away a chip from it, presume they have obtained the saint's protection*.
The haven of Jarrow, now called the Slake, is above half a mile in width, through the middle of which runs the brook called by Leland the Done; this in former times was most probably a powerful rivulet, but as it rises in a coal country may have been greatly diminished, and its feeders drained off
Inter Majorem & Burgenses Novi Castri sup' Tynam. Quer.
Inter Decanum & Cap. Dunelm. & Samuel Sheapherd defend.
Ex MS. Gab. Swainston.—Gyll's MSS.
: The passage from Jarrow monastery to the opposite shore is formed by a raised causeway and a bridge over the rivulet, which, considering the haven to have been neglected for many ages, is yet a formidable work. Mr Grose, from the appearance of the haven in 1773, says, the situation of the monastery
was not judiciously chosen with respect to healthfulness, there being a large marshy spot bordering it on the south, and when the tide is out, scarce any thing but stinking ouse remains in the bed of the creek that runs close under it.
It was not so miserable when we saw it, for many acres of the margin of the Slake were beautifully covered with thrift
The statice armeria of Linnaeus.
in full bloom, giving the shores the finest purple hue; and the sands were hard, and afforded pleasant travelling. As we observed before, when the ground was first chosen, this was the royal port where the Northumbrian fleet lay moored; these were the most populous shores, and here was the St Paul's of a powerful nation. A ship of one hundred tons burthen was a large vessel in these parts in the sixteenth century, and such were even brought from abroad, and not constructed here
Now there were many merchantmen of 3, 4, and 500 tons burthen belonging to several ports, and upwards of 100 vessels, each of above 200 tons burthen, belonging to Newcastle alone, all built at home, and better built than elsewhere; and before the death of king James, our trade was so far increased, that in the opinion of Sir William Monson, we were little, if at all, inferior in maritime force to the Dutch. See Campbell's Lives of the Admirals, vol. ii. p. 28. He further adds, that whereas ships of 100 tons had been before esteemed very large vessels, and were generally built and brought from beyond the seas. p. 41.
: What must we then conceive of the vessels of Egfrid's fleet?
In the road from Gateshead to Jarrow we passed near FELLON-HALL, the estate of Charles Brandling,
esq
Sir Rob. Brandling, mayor of Newcastle, 1547, was knighted there by the Protector (the duke of Somerset) at his return out of Scotland.
Oldmixon, fo.
162.
In the 36th of bishop Hatfield it appears, that Alex. Suretyes enfeoffed trustees of the manor of Felling, held of the prior of Durham in capite, by homage, fealty, two days works, and suit at the prior's court at Durham, in fraud and collusion to prevent the bishop having ward and marriage of the heir whilst under age.— Vide Rydding.
28 Dec. 1331. Was the property of Tho. Suretyes, mil. Lewis bishop of Durham granted him free warren in his manor there, which was confirmed by the prior and convent, whereupon he gave licence for the prior and his successors with their attendants to chace therein. In 1605, Felling was the property of Rob. Brandling,
Esq
held under the dean and chapter by military service, suit of court, and rendering for scutage 4s. when the scutage runs to 60s. and more, and 26s. 8d. rent at their exchequer.
Dicto Rob to Brandling slexis genibus sic dicente.
I do become yours and the chapter's man from this day forward for life, and member and earthly honour, and to you shall be faithful and loyal and shall be in saith to you for the lands which I do clayme to hold of you, saveing the faith I owe to our sovereign lord the king, and to such other lords as I hold of.
—
Rudd's MSS.
which stands on the ridge of a hill, having an eastern aspect, commanding an extensive prospect on the river Tyne: This manor was the ancient possession of the family of Surteys.
There are two HETHEWORTHS, called the Upper and Nether Hetheworths, but being both part of the ancient lands of the monastery of Jarrow, it is not easy to deduce from the records any thing distinct or material relative to either or both: The prior of Durham had a park here, in which bishop Farnham granted free warren. A resident family in the time of bishop Skirlaw bore the local name, and John de Hetheworth, in the twelfth year of that prelate, held divers parcels of land of the prior of Durham by various rents and services,
inter alias
gloves, a pound of cumin, &c. which lands were described, in the inquisition taken on his death, to have been formerly of William the son of Peter de Hetheword, William Fraunceys, John Clerk, Hugh Colstanes and others.
White-House,
belonging to Mr Colville, lies near to High-Heworth
Inq. p. m. J. de Farnacres, 6 bishop Bury, cor. J. de Menevylle vic.
.
There are two FOLLONSBYS, North and South. John de Farnacres held the manor of Follonsby of the prior of Durham
in capite,
by fealty and ten shillings rent, valued in the sixth year of bishop Bury at nine pounds
1344. Bishop Bury issued his commission to enquire into trespasses committed in the prior of Durham's free warren of Nether Heworth. Sch. 5. An. undecimo in dorso.
. The family of Gategangs had lands here in the fifth year of bishop Hatfield
Inq. p. m. Joh. fil. Joh. Gategang, 5 bishop Hatfield.
, and in the twentieth year of that prelate, they held of the heirs of William Faderless a carucate of land called Faderleshouse, paying a pound of frankincense
Thuris.
or twenty shillings, and of the heirs of the lord of Folaceby two messuages and thirty acres of land
Inq. p. m. Alan Gategang, 20 bishop Hatfield, cor. W. de Menevylle vic.
. In the time of bishop Skirlaw, the manor of Follonsby was the estate of John de Kirkby, who before his death enfeoffed John de Skendelby and John de Dalton chaplains therein, with the manor of Stokerly cum le Crook, he having no male issue, and leaving Emma, daughter of Agnes his father's sister, his heiress
Inq. p m. Joh. de Kirkley, 13 bishop Skirlaw, cor. T. de Claxton esc.
. It afterwards became the possession of Roger Thornton, and passed with his other estates to the Lumleys by marriage
Ao 14 bishop Booth.
An exemplification of a common recovery by Sir Tho. Lovel and others demandants, against Rob. Hilton deforceant, of the manor of Folanceby with a mess. 400 acres of land, 400 acres of meadow, 400 acres of pasture. and 6 acres of wood, upon a writ of entry returnable die Lunae in vigilia S'i Lawrentii Martiris Ao 22. reg. Hen. 7, with vouching of John Grainge, who I suppose was the common vouchee, and the usual judgment to recover over in value. Dat. 20 Sep. 23d regis.—
Cursitors Rolls.—Rudd's MSS.
The practice of common recoveries was not in all likelihood much in use, Taltarum's case, 1
th k. Ed. IV. being the first instance of it.
.
Of WARDLEY we find nothing of note in the records, or of NORTH or SOUTH HEBBORN
At Wardley there are some ruins of an oblong figure, and from this place lying so near the Wreckendyke, some have imagined these were the remains of some fortifications or Roman camp: They would not be overlooked by Dr Hunter or Mr Gyll, who often visited the ancient works in this district, and neither they or any other writers have named these ruins, so that it is most reasonable to conclude, they are the mere remains of some moat or wall which secured the manor house in former times.—
W. H.
. The latter places stand sweetly in the plain, and have fine inclosures about them.
Hedworth
was part of the ancient estate of the Hedworths of Harraton, as also
Muncton,
for the alienation of which John Hedworth,
esq
had licence on the 24th of September, in the first year of bishop Sever, in order to raise certain trusts and uses therein. The barrenness of the history of places in this district, as we before observed, is owing to the ancient monastery to which they were given; and thence they became involved in the general history of the church of Durham; or such as were granted out by the crown, are now in the hands of modern possessors, whose estates are derived from that period.
Descending into this vale, we found the country in a very different mode of agriculture from that we had passed: Navigation, trade, and the mines fully occupy the hands of the industrious in the neighbourhood of Gateshead and Whickham. In the valley about Hebborn the lands are laid out in beautiful order, well cultivated and planted; new roads are formed, the buildings are improved, and a happy fertility rewards the attention of the owner. Several beautiful mansions, with plantations and pleasure-grounds, ornament the scene; and the greatest part of the country from Gateshead to Shields is remarkably pleasant.
The towns of NORTH and SOUTH SHIELDS lie opposite to each other. Bourne remarks that North-Shields, in the reign of king Edward I. when the contest between Newcastle and the priory of Tinmouth happened, had only five or six fishermen's huts, and was become a large place but of late years, the church having been erected in 1659. South-Shields is also much improved of late years; it is situated on a higher shore, whence it is less affected by the smoke of the several works carried on there, and stands more commodious for keys, ship-builders yards, and many other matters material to trade. On a fine plain a large square is lately built, having the church on the south, with streets branching from the centers of each side of the square, and a handsome town-hall
This is also used by the dean and chapter as a court-house: Notice was given to hold a court leet there on Tuesday the 16th of October, 1770, for the whole manor of Westoe.
1729. This year the town of Newcastle had a trial at the assizes with Sir Henry Liddell, about tolls, wherein a verdict was given in favour of Sir Henry. It was then customary for the judges to go in the town's barge, attended by the mayor and others of the corporation, to Tynmouth, in their return this year Mr Justice Page who tried the cause, had some hot words with Mr Reay relative thereto, and thereupon the
ge threatened to commit the mayor, and the mayor in return told the judge he would commit him, being
upon the water and in his peculiar jurisdiction. This squabble occasioned a discontinuance of the cur
ing to Tynmouth.—
G
ll's MSS.
in the midst, with a colonade under it for the market people; some of the houses border upon elegance, though most of them have shops; the square is handsomely paved, with a broad foot-walk by the houses in the London form. Bishop Trevor granted them a market, to be held weekly on Wednesday, from the 17th of October, 1770, and two yearly fairs on the 24th of June and the 1st of September. Much trade is carried on here; frequently four hundred sail of vessels lie in this haven at a time; ships of such burthen as cannot come up to the Newcastle quays load and unload here: Some branches of trade have decreased of late years, particularly that of salt-boiling, which used to produce a duty of 80,000l. a year, and for some years past has not exceeded 10,000l. About fifty years ago it is said there were two hundred salt pans wrought here, now there are not more than thirty. But whilst that trade has declined, others of great consequence have improved as rapidly; for within the distance of forty years there were not more than four ships which belonged to this town, and now we are informed there are about five hundred, of between one hundred and five hundred tons burthen: Eleven ships were built and launched from the yards in 1781. There are here three dry docks for repairing, and ten yards for building ships: Four glass-houses for making crown glass and bottles; and it is supposed the number of settled inhabitants is about fifteen thousand. Mr Fordyce erected a large barilla work here, but it did not answer his expectations; some or most of the buildings are now used for a soap-boilery. The victualling and fitting out such a number of ships by the sister towns, as resort to this haven, of which South-Shields has a considerable proportion, the many branches of trade and manufacture carried on there, produce a vast influx of wealth. The importance of South-Shields has arose in little more than a century: The church, a chapel of ease under Jarrow, had occasion to enlarge the burial yard; and, in 1631, bishop Howson consecrated a plot of ground for that purpose
In MS. Church, p. 895. Ordonatio, &c.
. The great increase of inhabitants is shewn by the tables in the notes.
The antiquity of the church at Shields is not to be deduced with accuracy from any records before us; it was perhaps nearly cotemporary with that of Jarrow: Little can be gathered from the structure, it has been so often altered and reformed. The nave is twenty-eight paces in length, having to the south an aile, formed by five short round pillars with plain capitals, supporting pointed arches, apparently of a more modern date than the columns; the four arches eastward are uniform, but the two to the west much loftier, and of a different model: The width of the nave and south aile is eleven paces: The aile on the north side is new, erected in 1753, and six paces wide; the pillars are square, and arches circular, neatly stuccoed: It is galleried above the whole length, and regularly stalled below: There is also a gallery at the west end, and three small ones in the south aile: The church is plastered throughout, and ceiled with plain stucco-work: The place or recess for the communion-table is in the modern fashion, without any chancel, six paces wide, and lighted with a large Venetian window. The pulpit is fixed against the second pillar in the south row. The vestry room is remarkably neat, and the whole edifice kept in decent order
Penes Rev. Mr Hogarth vicar of Kirknewton, Northumberland.
The copy of what is found in an old book belonging to the cathedral church of Durham, touching the rights of the chapel of St Hild. Reg. v. fo. 126, 6.
Johannes prior ecclesiae cathedralis Dunelm. dilecto nobis in Christo d'no Joh'i de Tyseburn capello salutem. In ampleximus salvatoris laudabilis conversatia tua et morum honestas merito nos inducunt ut capella n'ra S'tae Hildae tuae custodiae committamus ad effectum ut parochianis de Les Sheels, Harton & Wivestor divina celebres in eadem ac ministres sacramenta eccl'iae prout alij capell'i ib'm ante commorantes facere consuebant recepturus et habiturus mansum & terras eidem capellae pertinentes, & dimidium p'tem oblacon. ad pixidem S'tae Crucis p'venientium et dimidiam p'tem cerae in d'ca capella offerendae omnes minutas oblationes in purificationibus in baptismatibus in sepulturis mortuorum provenienc. de
Hedemespenys.
denarios p' pane b'ndicto singulis d'neis offerendos cum piscibus vocatis
Saint-Hilde-fish
ex devocoe parochianorum ib'm conferendis & unam maream de magistro de Jarrow qui p'tprefuit annuatim ad festa pent. et S. Martini in Hyeme per equales por'cones. In cujus, &c. sigillum n'rm ex consensu mag'ri de Jarrow p'sentibus est appensum duraturum ad terminum vitae tuae ita q'd capellae sup'dictae debite deservias et benigne. Dat. 4o die Januarij, Ao D'ni mill'mo quadrigentesimo secundo.
This chapel is a peculiar to the dean and chapter of Durham, and not in charge.
Certain val. 66l. 8s. 4d.—Proc. ep. 1s. 4d.—Real val. 100l.
CURATES.
Rob. de Dalton, 1321
Tho. Aldofeldo, 1323, p. m. Dalton
Joh. de Werdale, 1375
Joh. de Giseburne, 1393, p. m. Werdale
Will. Younger, 1418
Tho. Ellison, 1553
Tho. Blakiston, 26 Oct. 1568
Tho. Meslet, 1577
Edw. Ambry, A. B. May 1581, res.
Will. Bramale, cl. 24 Oct. 1583
Tho. Turwhitt, 1590
Geo. Carre, 1610, p m. Turwhitt
Tho. Wandles, A. M. 15, Nov. 1637, p. m. Carre
Tho. Lupton, an intruder, 1657
Steph. Bordley, A. M. 27 July, 1664, p. m. ult.
Tho. Fawcett, oc. 1690
Tho. Simpson, A. B. 13 July, 1721, p. m. Fawcett
Rob. Lambe, 3 Aug. 1747, p. m. Simpson
Gilb. Nelson, 20 Nov. 1747, p. res. Lambe
Fra. Lherondell, 26 Nov. 1748, p. m. Nelson
W. Thompson, 1 June, 1750, p. res. Lherondell
Sam. Dennis, A. M. 1754, p. m. Thompson
Randal's MSS.
Jarrow parish.
Book of rates.
Value of lands.
 
£.
s.
d.
£.
s.
d.
Muncton, Jarrow, Hebborn's freehold closes
6
19
9
770
0
0
(King's rent for Jarrow 2l. 13s.)—Poulter's close.—Upper Heworth. White-house.—Nether Heworth.—Fellin.—Wardley—(Tithe corn Dr Brevint 20l.—Hedworth.—(Out-rent 12l.—Follansby.—Harton (tithe corn Dr Basire 32l.)—Westoe, (tithe corn Dr Carlton 34l.)— Fewler's close.—Sheel-heugh.—South-Sheels, and East and West Pans.—(Jarrow impropriation 120l.)—Hayning wood, (Mr Rawlin's quarries 50l.)—Sheels Mills and Moody's Mills
22
8
5
2544
3
0
Dean and chapter's out-rents as set forth in this record:—Muncton 40l.—Harton 47l.—Westoe 42l. Sheels 92l.—
Grey's MSS.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population
(Jarrow)
from 1660 to 1679
545
90
111
1760 to 1779
1177
730
1140
Increase
632
647
1029
(Sheels)
1965
104
1793
 
4449
922
3565
Increase
2484
818
1772
Burials in the last year 337.—Computed number of inhabitants 11, 110.
Dean and chapter's rents.
Over Heworth 6l. 11s. 6d.—Nether Heworth 13l. 7s. 10d.—Hayning 5l. 2s. 6d. White house 14l.—Hebborne 14l. 13s. 1½d.—Coal mines in Jarrow parish 1l. 6s. 8d.—Poulter close 10s.— Wardley 8l. 13s. 4d.—Muncton 9l. 4s. 2d.—Hedworth 7l. 19s. 0½d.—Symonside 22l. 18s. 4d.—Harton 27l. 6s.—Westoe 25l. 5s.—Sheel-heugh 8l. 6s. 6d.—South-Sheels burgages 15l. 17s.—Salt pans and waste ground 78l.—Waste ground with Jarrow Slake, then built for a ballast shore 3s. 2d.—The salt pans in this list are 139.—Sheels mills, two water and two wind mills 13l. 6s. 8d.—Salt pans at Wall's-End 3l. 6s. 8d.
Land tax at 4s. in the pound.
County rates at 6s. 8d.
Harton
19
13
4
0
14
0
Hedworth
14
16
0
0
14
0¾
Up. Heworth
14
15
0
0
14
0
Neth. Heworth
54
19
3
1
7
1½
Muncton
55
6
0 (with Jarrow)
2
12
5¾
South-Sheels
139
9
4½
1
3
1½
East pan ward
52
14
0
1
3
1½
Middle ward
12
14
0
1
3
1½
East ward
15
13
0
1
3
1½
Westoe
30
12
11½
1
2
0
Registered estates.
—Gateshead, lady Mary Radcliffe 134l.—Mrs Cath. Liddle 35l.—Geo. Errington 6l.—
ow Heworth, Ra. Brandling,
esq
208l. 15s.—Mary Blakey 5l.—
Mann's MSS.
. The prospect from the church-yard southward is worth the traveller's attention, where Jarrow and its ruined monastery on a fine point of land, are particularly beautiful: But that from the ropery-walk excels every thing of the kind in the north of England. The river thronged with vessels, and animated with an incessant passage of small craft, is close on your left hand: The batteries and barracks on the northern shore display a striking military scene, whilst on the more distant ground, from the brow of lofty rocks, rise the venerable remains of Tinmouth priory: At the time we saw this prospect, the cliffs were gilded with the evening sun; the dashing billows which broke over the bar of the river drove their foam against the precipices, over which the solemn abbey, in the weeds of ruin, with distracted aspect, sinking under the destroying hand of Time, compleated such an assemblage of picturesque objects as seldom are found in a space so confined.
Bourne, speaking of the river Tyne, says,
The mouth of the river forms a haven so deep as to carry vessels of a considerable burthen, and of that security that they are not in danger either of storms or shallows, save that within less than half a mile of the bar of Tinmouth (which is a sand that lies cross the river's mouth, not above seven feet deep at low water) you meet with many rocks, which are called by the sailors the Black Middens, which are very dangerous; but to prevent any mischiefs which might happen in the night time, there are two light-houses, maintained by the Trinity-house in Newcastle; and near them, in the year 1672, was built a fort called Clifford's fort, which effectually commands all the vessels that enter the river.
Many judicious antiquaries have been of opinion, that there was a Roman station at the point of land near South-Shields; and indeed the importance of this river was such, that we can scarcely imagine so cautious and intelligent a people would have neglected the southern shore, where an enemy's troops at some seasons might safely be disembarked if the coast was unguarded
Horsley's Brit. Rom. p. 286. There has been a Roman station here, and to this belong the three following antiquities.
An altar was (when I took the draught of it) upon the spot where the station has been, lying at the northwest corner. Dr Hunter has since got it removed to the library of Durham, where I saw it, when last there.
It is of a coarse brown stone, much of the same nature with what we frequently meet with in other Roman altars; though the people here tell me, no such stone is now to be found in these parts The usual sacrificing vessels are upon the sides of the altars, and the knife upon the back, which is not so common.— There has no doubt been an inscription upon this altar, though it is now entirely effaced. Yet as this was the only original I could recover belonging to this station, I thought proper to give a draught of it.
Besides this, two other altars have been found at this place; one of which, as I am informed, was built up in a quay wall about forty years ago, and is not now to be come at. The other was first sent to York to Dr Lister, and since his death, as I have been told, was sent to Norwich to one Mr Giles, and I suppose is now lost. Dr Lister published it in the Transactions, No 145, and from thence it has been inserted in Camden's Brit. and in Dr Gale's edition of Antonine's Itinerary, p. 9.
Dis Matribus pro salute Imperatoris Marci Aurelii Antonini Augusti Pii felicis — lubens merito ob reditum.
I have taken the draught of the altar and inscription from the copy of Dr Lister, compared with the others, and given a reading of the inscription somewhat different from Dr Lister's, and only pricked those letters or parts of letters which I imagine ought to be supplied. As it is not usual to place the word
Imperator
after the name of the emperor, so I see no occasion for doing it here. The Doctor observes, that this altar might be erected for Caracalla when going into Caledonia. Severus is, I believe, generally joined to Caracalla in the inscriptions before the Caledonian expedition, as he was in the expedition itself. This makes it less probable that Caracalla is intended in the inscription, and yet
ob reditum,
and the titles
pii felicis
don't seem to suit Marcus Aurelius, nor
ob reditum
Commodus, though to him
pius felix
are usually annexed. So that I suppose it yet more improbable, that either of these are intended. Nor do I think there is much in having both
pro salute,
and
ob reditum
in the inscription. It is for his safe return:
Pro salute itus et reditus
is not uncommon.
Extract from Professor Ward's letter to Mr Horsley, page 351.
Dr Lister, who first wrote out this inscription, and from whose copy the others have since been taken, tells us, that it contained nine lines, and therefore has left a space between the fifth and sixth line sufficient to contain two others. In this space, the names of the person who erected the altar might probably be inserted.— And as it appears by the Doctor's draught, that the inscription filled up the whole space of the altar, it is scarce credible to me so great a chasm should be left between LV and BENS. I cannot but think therefore, that a letter or two are wanting here, which may have been LI in LIBENS, and that SO might have been at the end of the preceding line, which joined to L at the beginning of this, would stand for
solvit,
as V that follows may be
votum.
This is agreeable to the usual form,
solvit votum libens merito,
suits the space, and renders the inscription complete.
Dis Manibus.
This is a fragment lately discovered. I believe by the remains of the pediment which has been at the top, and the imperfect letter which is visible, that it has been sepulchral.
.
Extract of a letter from Dr Hunter of Durham, to Roger Gale,
esq
May
17, 1735.
Give me leave to attempt the recovery of one of the Roman stations in this country, both requisite for the security of the navigation into the northern seas, and the protection of their frontiers beyond the river Tyne, thereby saving the great expence and trouble of building the wall as far as the sea at Tinmouth, no less than three miles. I mean that near South-Shields, at the entrance of the river into the ocean, and which cannot but have flourished till the Danish invasions, as Mr Leland has it in his Collectanea, vol. iv. p. 43.
E regione Tinemuthae fuit urbs vastata a Danis, Urfa nomine, ubi natus erat Oswinus rex.
The communication there was with Binchester, is visible in several places, as is the angle where the paved way goes off from the military way leading to Lanchester, about three miles to the north of Binchester, and passes to the north east through Brancepeth-park, thence a little to the south of Brandon
Behind Willington the road is very distinct: A mile stone was lately discovered there, with an inscription described to be legible; but when we went to look after it, the farmers had totally obliterated the whole, and squared the pillar to form some part of the sold for their cattle.
Ex historia incerti Authoris de paucis Northumbr. regibus & episcopus Trans-humbrianis.
Ferunt quidem S. regem Oswinum natum in quodam Castro Burgh antiquitus nuncupata, cujus fundamenta pro parte adhuc manent ex australi parti aquae de Tina prope Southe Sheles in territorio quod nunc est Prious Dunelmi.—
Lel. Itin. vol. vi.
, and is lost in the cultivated grounds, but appearing upon Durham moor in the same direction again, passing by Hag-house, and below upon Harbrass moor is very visible, tending past Lumley castle in a direct line towards South-Shields, passing about a mile east of that of Chester-in-the-Street, without any signs of communication therewith. Two elevated pavements in the river Tyne, the one at the west end of South-Shields, the other on the north side of the river, near the end of the Roman wall, proper for their safe landing at different times of the ebbing and flowing tide, fully shew its necessary correspondence with
Segedunum,
the first station upon the wall. But another military way called
Wreken Dyke
That there has been a Roman station at South-Shields is out of all question; the altars that have been found there, and the military way which has gone from it, are convincing proofs of this. I once imagined this station might have been the old
Glanoventa
(which no doubt was the most easterly on this rout at that time) mentioned in the Itinerary and in the Notitia, and that this iter had begun here, and proceeded according to the military way leading from hence to Lanchester: But the distances in the Itinerary are not to be reconciled to the distances between the respective stations on this way, if we begin at South-Shields. Besides, that the slender remains of the station and military way near it, incline me to think it has not been mentioned so late as till the writing of the Notitia, that it was in being at the time of Marcus Aurelius, appears from the altar and inscription found here, if Dr Lister's reading be just; but I am apt to think it was abandoned not very long after, perhaps at the building of Severus's wall, and the station erected at Cousin's house, or a little after. This station seems not to be named either in Ptolemy, the Itinerary, or Notitia, unless we suppose
Ostia Vedrae
in Ptolemy to be as well the name of the station as of the river mouth.
I know no other name for the Roman station and town at the mouth of the river, (
Vedra
Tine) near South-Shields, but
Ostia Vedrae.
If we consider the station itself, the altar inscribed to one of the Antonines, and the nearness of the place to the Roman wall, one can scarce suppose, that the river and station should be wholly unknown to Ptolemy; and yet unless these be their names, they are nameless in this geographer. I own the force of this argument is abated, when we consider, that neither Newcastle nor any other of the Roman places on the wall are mentioned by this ancient author; but it is true, that towns rather than sorts came under Ptolemy's notice.
In this place it will not be amiss to take notice of Wreken Dyke, the military way so called. This military way has no doubt terminated at South-Shields. It seems to have come from the station, and to have crossed the marsh, then possibly a branch of the river, not far from the station. Thence it has passed most probably through, or a little to the east of a house called Lay-gate; from thence it seems to have gone near a house called the Barns, the garden wall probably standing on it, and so on to the Dean bridge, close by Jarrow Slake. For this space, the traces of this way are very obscure and uncertain: In the field beyond this bridge the track of it is plain, and for near the full breadth of the inclosure, sensibly raised above the level of the rest of the ground, though it runs cross the ridges. On the west side of this field or inclosure there is a small descent, and in the bottom a lane, which is the high road from Bowden to Shields, and a small ascent on the other side in the field joining this lane. As the military way ascends on the one side and descends on the other, it is bent into a curve, and then falls into the right line, in which it seems to be continued all the way to Gateshead fell for the space of five or six miles; from thence it goes towards Lamesley and Kibblesworth, which it leaves a little to the south. It was very visible all the way not many years ago, before Sir Henry Liddell inclosed and improved those grounds. And the gardener at Cousin's house, who formerly wrought on Gateshead fell, assured me he had seen and helped to dig up some stones out of Wreken Dyke, which he called Bracken Dyke, so that he was altogether of opinion that this part of it had been paved. This way passes on towards Beamish, and I make no doubt has gone forward to Lanchester. It is indeed lost on the moor beyond Beamish, nor is it any great wonder it should be so, considering how mossy and lost it is. I was assured at Lanchester that several trees had been dug up in this moor, which had been cut down with an ax, probably to clear this way; and if these trees have been sunk so much below the surface, no wonder if a heavy military way be much more so. I have heard a traditionary account of this way's passing by Stanley towards Lanchester, though I know not how far this may be relied on, but how little of such military ways appear in some other places, where it might have been better expected? There is a remarkable tumulus near this way, not far from Ravensworth: Besides which, I observed another very considerable one about a mile from Lanchester, called the Maiden-Law, and probably the military way has not been far from this tumulus. I am surprised to find the military way which goes from South-Shields usually represented to pass near to Durham, sometimes on the east and sometimes on the west side of it, when there is such plain demonstration not only of the reality of the way, but of the range and tendency of it; but I believe the military way which is supposed to have gone from Newcastle to Chester, and from thence to Watling-street near Binchester, has occasioned the mistake. The Gardener at Cousin's house, said he had observed when he wrought thereabouts, this military way from Newcastle to Chester, and that it lay to the west of the present highway through the sell. Dr Hunter was positive he had observed the same way upon the sell, as also some remaining track of a
via vicinalis
beyond Chester, between Binchester and Brancepeth castle, (as I remember) pointing towards Chester, which he therefore concluded must have gone that way.—
Horsley.
1750. Wreken Dyke is the boundary between Gateshead fell and Eighton common, and may be seen as it passes through Eighton quarries, and at the north end of the village of Eighton, from thence down one of lord Ravensworth's new inclosures, and crossing the high road leading to Newcastle from Chester, it appears plain in an inclosure on the west side of the road, the ridge not having been ploughed, and it is partly over run with broom, and there is a foot path on the ridge of it.
1759. The field on the west side of the road was ploughed up, but the foot-path on the ridge of the way was continued and visible.—
Gyll's MSS.
Mr Horsley's remarks on the etymology of Wreken Dyke.—
Ichning
or
Icknild
seems sometimes to have been corrupted into
Ricknild
or
Richning,
as appears from the names of some places that are supposed to be derived from the name of this street.
Drayton. in his Polly-Olbion, brings in Watling-street as speaking thus:
And Rickneld, forth, that weight of Cambria's shore,
Where S. Wales now shoots forth St David's promontore,
And on his Midway near did me in England meet,
Then in his oblique course the lusty stragling street
Soon overtook the Fosse, and towards the fall of Tine
Into the German sea dissolv'd at his decline,
It is too great a force to suppose
Racking
corrupted from
Roman,
and
Racking Dyke
from
Roman Dyke;
and yet there does not appear much more violence in this, than in supposing
Raven,
in
Ravens Dyke
or bank, to have come from the word
Roman,
which our best antiquaries seem to agree in. From the like conjecture one might be inclined to think, that
Ravens worth
is from
Romans worth;
for the village of Ravensworth is just by the military way, though the castle be at some distance. But I know no better conjecture with respect to this etymology than that it has been from
Warken Dyke
or
Wrought Dyke,
that is a dyke of great labour and work, according to our northern pronunciation. It consists of firm gravel and sand, very hard and compact, so as to make a very good way at this time, at all seasons of the year. I also believe it has a mixture of stone or somewhat of pavement.
, passing from this station to the west, has hitherto frustrated the enquiries of our late antiquaries: Mr Horsley himself pointing out its ductus very justly over Gateshead fell, where it passed the public road, and a little to the west the Roman way going to the south from Newcastle to Chester-in-the-Street, and afterwards runing through Lamesley and Kibblesworth fields, advances to the south-west over Blackburn moor, and through the township of Hedley. It comes next to Causey, a village which owes its name to it, and from thence ascends a high hill, and terminates at a square fortification upon the top thereof at Stanley, the seat of the Hon. Sir Nich. Tempest, bart. who, I am told, possesses several Roman coins found therein. This place, though not above three miles from Chester-in-the-Street and four from Lanchester, seems to have had no immediate communication with either of them, no vestigia of any paved way appearing upon the moors adjoining, and being situated as Chester itself, at the termination of a military way, gives me convincing reason to believe the use of each has been the same, namely, to guard herds of cattle at grass, for the subsistence of the two garrisons at South-Shields and
Pons Aelij,
and for victualling ships resorting to the first place: Whereas had its elevated situation been intended to form a
castrum exploratorium,
then must the advantage of paved ways to the next station have been necessary for the speedy conveyance of intelligence. Though this last military way bears the names of Wreken Dyke, I am apt to believe that name is rather due to the way leading from Binchester to South Shields, especially from the authority of Ralph Higden, who says, that Wreken Dyke, or Reken Dyke, passed from the west of England and ended at Tinemouth. I dare not affix a Roman name to this our station, without the authority of inscriptions.
After the learned definitions given in the notes on the etymology of Wreken Dyke, it may appear presumptuous to offer new conjectures; but there is a probability that this military road was restored by the Danes on their making the river Tyne their frequent harbour, for the more easy communication with the country, and victualling their navy: At their several stationary intervals where sentries were placed, their standard, so well known in ancient writings by the name of Raffen, would be displayed, and it seems but a small trespass on the original word, to imagine it would fall into the corruption of
Raken,
so as to make Raffen Dyke sound Racken Dyke: They were the last people who it may be presumed kept this up as a military road, and thence the name in acceptation in their days, not having been disused by new comers, has remained to our time. We proposed the like etymology for the name of Ravensworth, much less corrupted from Raffens-weath, the northern language, and it remains with the reader to determine, whether, supported by each other, together with the tumuli of Ravensworth and Maiden Law, the conjecture is probable, or at least not altogether vague.
In the road from Shields to Sunderland we passed through the village of WESTOE, having several handsome buildings, seated on an eminence, commanding a beautiful prospect of the harbour and adjacent country.
The scenery around is pleasant, the cultivation kept in good order, and the roads excellent.
The Parish of
WASHINGTON.
To the south of Jarrow lies the parish of Washington: The manor is mentioned in the Boldon Book, wherein it is said Will. de Hertburn held the same, except the church and the lands thereto appertaining, in exchange for the vill of Hertburn, rendering four pounds, serving in the great chace with two greyhounds, and paying one mark to the palatine aid, when such happened to be raised. At the time of making bishop Hatfield's Survey, the resident family had assumed a local name, and W. de Wessyngton, knight, then held the manor and vill
Wessyngton.
Willielmus de Hertburn tenet Wassyngton excepta ecclesia et terra ad ecclesiam pertinente in escambium pro villa de Hertburn, quam propter hoc quiet. clamavit. & reddit iiijli. & vadit in magna caza cum ij leporariis. Et quando commune auxilium venerit, debet dare unam marcam ad plus de auxilio.
Boldon Buke.
Wessyngton.
Will's de Wessyngton miles tenet maner. & villam de Wessyngton per servic. forin. redd. iiijli.
Hatfield's Survey.
. On the inquisition taken at his death, in the twenty-second year of that prelate, it appears that in his service he was to provide three greyhounds for the chace, and if he took any game in his way to the forest, it should be to the bishop's use, but what he got on his return was to be taken for his own benefit
Inq. p. m. Will. de Wessyngton, 22 bishop Hatfield, cor W. de Menevyll vic.
. In bishop Langley's time we find Washington became the estate of the Blaykestons, who also held Blakiston, Coxhowe, and Whitton, and Will. de Blaykeston settled the same in trust for his son William, and Katherine his wife and the heirs male of their bodies, with remainder to his own right heirs. How long it continued in that family is not easy to determine. By conveyances, dated the 3d of July, in the eleventh year of king James I. it passed from Sir John Malory of Studley in the county of York, and William his son, and Sir James Bellyngham, to Tho. Caldwell and John Booth
Cursitors Rolls.—Rudd's MSS.
, who were trustees for bishop James. Male issue failing in the prelate's grandson William James,
esq
the estate descended to coheiresses, one of whom married Sir Richard Musgrave
See vol. i. p. 480.
. The family of
Bracks
have considerable possessions here.
The church is built on elevated ground; the village inconsiderable, and scattered on the skirts of the brook: Mr Brack's mansion stands a little to the south. There is much antiquity in the architecture of the church, which has two side ailes, each separated from the nave by three columns; two on one side are octagonal, the middle one round; on the other all the pillars are octagonal, the arches are pointed, and with the columns are well proportioned and light: The nave is eighteen paces long, the ailes thirteen wide: Many of the windows are modern and sashed. The chancel is separated from the nave by railings and stalls, being six paces in length to the altar rails; the windows have been regular, two to the north and two to the south under pointed arches; one is new sashed: The east window consists of three lights under a pointed arch. The vestry room is singular, and its original use not now to be discovered; it is vaulted over with stone, with ribbed archings terminating in points, and seems as if it was constructed for a place of interment. On the south side of the church is a large porch, called the Lord's porch, about twenty feet long and fifteen broad, now claimed as the burial place of the family of
Bracks;
it is ceiled with wood in pannels, gaudily painted, sprinkled over with golden stars, and further ornamented with the arms of the family of James; in one shield the See of Durham is quartered
On a wooden tablet.
WILL. JAMES of Washington,
Esq
departed this Life the 5 day of April, 1662, at his Death he gave to the poor of Washington forty Shillings a Year for Ten Years.
O
a brass plate fixed in a blue stone, within the rails of the altar, in old characters.
Hic jacet Joh'es Jackson, A. D. 1506.
Washington rectory.
In the deanry of Chester.—The bishop of Durham patron.
King's b. 18l.—Yearly ten. 1l. 16s.—Pr. ep. 10s.—Pr. arch. 2s.—Real value 400l.
RECTORS.
Will. de Clifford, 1279
Rob. de Askelby, 1333
John de Herlowe, 1339
John Edriche, 1342, p. res. Herlowe
Rob. de Wartheton
Will. de Winceby, 1366, p. m. Wartheton
Rich. de Penreth, 1374, p. m. Winceby
John de Weston,—, p. m. Penreth
Will. Ingilby, 1406, p. res. Weston
John Newton, 1408, p. m. Ingilby
John de Bryteby, 1440, p. res. Newton
Will. Bedell, 1464
Ra. Hamsterley, A. M. 1486
Edm. Couper, 1 Jan. 1500, p. res. Hamsterley
Rich. Curren, 1521, p. m. Couper
Ch. Barns, A M. 8 Oct. 1534
Roland Pratt, 6 July, 1558
Ra. Lever, A. M. 5 Nov. 1565, p. m. Pratt
John Lever, cl. 23 Feb. 1576, p. res Lever
Anth. Garsorthe, 3 Feb. 1577
Hugh Broughton, A. M. 6 May, 1580, p. m. Garsorthe
Hen. Ewbanke, A. M. 24 Dec. 1583
Will. Barker, 2 May, 1611, p. res. Ewbanke
Will. James, A. M. 12 Sep. 1616
Rob. Lane, S. T. B. 19 July, 1617, p. res. James
And. Perne, A. M. 1 Ap. 1622, p. res. Lane
Tho. Triplet, A M. 7 Ap 1640, p. m. Perne
One Williamson, an intruder
Hen. Johnson, A. M. 9 Mar. 1661, p. res. Triplet
Fitzherbert Adams, S. T. B. 29 Sept. 1683, p. m. Johnson
Rich. Stonhewer, A M. 1719, p. m. Adams
John Gamage, A. M. 4 June, 1727, p. res. Stonhewer
Geo. Talbot, A. M. 4 Ap. 1728, p. res. Gamage
Tho. Rudd, A. M. 7 July, 1729, p. res. Talbot
Wadham Chandler, A. M. 23 Aug. 1735, p. m. Rudd
Hen. Bland, A. M. 23 Aug. 1735, p. res. Chandler
Edw. Wilson, A. B. 18 Aug. 1768, p. m. Bland
Cha. Egerton, — Sept. 1786, p. res. Wilson
Randal's MSS.
Book of rates 7l. 5s.—Value of lands, &c. 1466l. 13s. 4d.—
Grey's MSS.
Land tax at 4s.
 
County rates 6s. 8d
Barmston
18
11
2
 
0
17
6
Great Ushworth
32
8
4
 
0
14
0
Washington
29
8
0
 
1
8
0
 
 
 
 
North Biddick
0
8
5
 
 
 
 
Little Usworth
0
8
5
Mann's MSS.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population from 1660 to 1679
330
83
280
from 1760 to 1779
956
213
828
Increase
626
130
548
Burials in the last year 64.—Computed number of inhabitants 1920.
. Mr Stonhewer, whilst he was rector between the years 1719 and 1727, built a good rectory house; but the present elegant mansion appears, by the arms over the door, to owe its erection or great improvements to Mr Talbot, afterwards bishop of Durham.
GREAT USWORTH in this parish is the seat of William Peareth,
esq
an elegant newly erected mansion, on the southern inclination of a hill, and in a lofty situation: The building is of free-stone, in a good taste; the center, containing the chief apartments, has an hexagonal projection; the offices form the wings. The prospect is extensive and beautiful, having Biddick, Lambton, Harraton, and the Staiths in front, a long tract of country eastward, and an open view of the sea, with Sunderland, Weremouth, Hilton castle, and the borders of the river Were.
This manor performed great services
Magna Useworth.
Magna Useworth reddit xxx s. de cornag. & j vaccam de metrid. & j castelman & viij scaceldr. brasij, & totidem sarinae, & totidem avenae, unaquaq. caruca (excepto dominio) arat & herciat ij acras. Et villani saciunt iiij porcationes in unamquamq. porcationem cum xxvj hominibus. Et has operationes quas facere solebant apud Wessyngton, saciunt nunc apud Gatesheved, & quadrigant unum tonellum vini & lapidem molendini apud Dunelm.
Drengus pascit canem & equum & est in magna caza cum ij leporarijs & v cordis, & sequitur placita, & vadit in legationibus.
Molendinum ejusdem villae reddit x s.—
Boldon Buke.
Usworth Magna.
Will's de Hilton miles tenet ij partes villae de Magna Usworth, & Alicia de Moderby tertiam partem dicta villae per servic. forin. & redd. per ann. xs.
Idem Will's & Alicia red. ibid. pro castelmen per ann. xxs.—pro operationibus ad term. S. Martini x s.— pro cornag. dictae villae per ann. ad fest. S. Cuthberti in Septemb. xxx s. pro una vaeca de metrich. ad fest. S. Martini vj s.—pro praedicta villa ad fest. purif. pro scat. aven' x q'n & dimid.—pro eadem villa ad idem festum de sarin. aven. v quart. ij bz. ad idem fest. de scat. brat. v quart. ij bz.—quadrigant unum tonel. vini.
Hatfield's Survey.
Inq. p. m. Rob. Swynowe, 12 bishop Laurence, met. ejusd. pastur. in Magna Usworth, voc. le schelmore cont. xxx acr. ten. de barone de Hilton, p. fid. & servic. &c.
, according to the account given in the Boldon Book: It paid thirty shillings annually for cornage, provided a milch cow, and one castleman, viij
scaceldr.
(chalders) of malt, meal, and oats, and the owner of every carucate of land except the demesne, was to plow and harrow two acres. The villains were to prepare in tillage for seed four portions of land, each portion with xxvj men; and it was therein specified, that the service theretofore performed at Washington they were to do at Gateshead; also to carry a tun of wine and millstones to Durham. A dringe fed a horse and a dog, and attended the great chace, providing two greyhounds and five cords of provender; he followed the court and went on embassies. In the fifth year of bishop Hatfield, Alicia Bedik was seised of two parts of the vill of Great Usworth, rendering yearly fifty shillings and eight-pence rent, three quarters
Eight bush. to the quarter.
and half a quarter of barley malt, called
statmalt,
or statute or stated malt, the like quantity of oat-meal, called
statmele,
and seven quarters of oats, called
stathavire
Inq. p. m. 5 bishop Hatfield, cor. vic. ap. Dun.
. By bishop Hatfield's Survey, it appears Will. de Hilton held two parts of the vill of Great Usworth, and Alicia de Moderby the other part. The services were then changed into money payments, 20s. for a castleman, for work at Martinmas 10 s. for cornage at the feast of St Cuthbert in September xxx s. for a milch cow 6s. ten quarters and a half of oats, five quarters and two bushels of oat meal, and the like quantity of malt. It appears by an inquisition in the thirty-fifth year of the same prelate, that Alicia intermarried with Rich. Stanhop. This manor continued for many ages in the family of Hilton
Inspeximus & exemplification
1
bishop Nevile, of an inquisition taken of the possessions of Sir Rob. Hilton, knight, (stiled in the margin p' barone de Hilton) in which it is stated he died seised, inter al's, of Great Usworth manor, and the manor of Bedyk near Wessington.—
Cursitor's Rolls.—Rudd's MSS.
, and attended the general dispersion of their great estates.
The manor of LITTLE USWORTH in the Boldon Book rendered x s. yearly, and William who possessed it, carried the bishop's wine with eight oxen, and attended the great chace with two greyhounds. In Hatfield's Survey it appears to be the possession of the before-named Alicia Moderby, who afterwards married Richard Stanhop, and the manor was settled on their issue
Useworth.
Parva Useworth, quam Willielmus tenet reddit x s. quadragat vinum cum viij bobus & vadit in magna ea
cum ij leporariis.—
Boldon Buke.
Usworth Parva.
Praedicta Alicia (Moderby) tenet villam de Parva Usworth per servic. sotin. & redd. per ann. x s.
Hatfield's Survey.
bishop Hatfield, co. Will. del. Bowes esc.
. In the thirty-fourth year of bishop Hatfield, Isabella the daughter of Tho. de Wessington, daughter and one of the heiresses of Jacob de Usworth, died seised of a moiety of this manor, and a fourth part of the vill of Great Usworth. In the sixteenth year of bishop Skirlaw we find Gerard Heron
esq
seised of a moiety of the manor, in right of Elizabeth his wife, and that Johan de Riddell held the other moiety, they being daughters and coheiresses of Cecily Taillior. Much confusion appears in the inquisitions from this period, by the manor passing in moieties to females; and we find the families of Wessington, Redmarshall, Dolphanby, Swynhoes, and Chestre severally interested therein.
NORTH BIDDICK belongs to the family of Davisons, and lies in a low situation, within a mile of Washington: It is mentioned in the Boldon Book as the property of Ulkill, who held it by the sixth part of a knight's fee. In Hatfield's Survey it appears William de Hilton, knight, held this vill, which theretofore had been the estate of John de Yheland, from which period it continued in the family of Hiltons for many generations, as before observed of their other possessions. Bramston or Barmston was another manor of the Hiltons, situated on the banks of the river Were
Bedyk.
Bedyk Ulkilli servitium sexta partis feodi unius militis.
Johannes filius Eustac. & Alex. frater ejus de West Aukland qui fuerunt irretiti de servitute quieti sunt per pateram.
Gilbertus filius Umfridi de Dunolm. tenet in mora de Newbotill xxiiij acr. terrae sibi & haeredibus imperpetuum reddendo annuatim scaccario Dunolm. xxviij s. iiij d. ad quatuor terminos in episcopatu Dunolm. constitutos. Et habebit viij boves in mora de Newbotill per cartam quam habet de d'no episcopo.
Rogerus filius Roberti Bernard tenet xlviij acr. in Helmygden per divisas sicut in carta quam habet de d'no Waltero episcopo Dunolm. plenias continetur, reddendo x s. ad scaccarium Dunolm. ad quatuor terminos in episcopatu Dunolm. constitutos.—
Boldon Buke.
North Bedik.
Willielmus de Hilton miles tenet villam de North Bedick quond'm Johannis de Yheland per sextam partem feodi unius militis & redd. per ann. liij s. iiij d.
Idem Wil'us & Tho. Grey (Stanhers) Gilbertus Hunter, Robertus Luddok, Johannes Bateson (Bedykfeld) &c. Willielmus de Stele cepit ad opus husbandor. de Urpath xj acr. ijj r. & dimid. terrae vocat. Wodyngdon, &c.
Terrae vast.
Est ibid. j acr. terrae vocat. Taberdyk nuper in tenura, &c.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Inq. p. m. 16 Cha. 1. 1541. Hen. Hilton.—Barmeston was held by homage and fealty, and the moiety of a knight's fee, and suit of court.—North Biddick by homage and fealty, and the sixth part of a knight's fee, and 53s. 4d. rent.—Great Usworth held
in capite
by knight's service.—Tollonsby the fortieth part of a knight's fee.—Newton by homage and fealty and one knight's fee, and suit of court.—Ford by homage and fealty, and a moiety of a knight's fee, and suit of court.—Hilton by homage, fealty, and one knight's fee (except a tenth part) and suit of court.
.
The Staiths called FATFIELD STAITHS exhibit a busy scene in the coal trade, where the keels come up to receive their loading for the port of Sunderland. The village is very populous. Near this place is an eminence called the Worm Hill, which tradition says was once possessed by an enormous serpent, that wound its horrid body round the base; that it destroyed much provision, and used to infest the Lambton estate, till some hero of that family engaged it, cased in armour set with razors, and when it would have crushed the combatant by enfolding him, sustaining a thousand wounds, fell at last by his falchion. We thought to have found intrenchments round this mount, and that the fable had reference to some Danish troop who kept the place as a station, from whence they could commit depredations on the country, and that the story of the hero imported some chief personage's victory over a public enemy: But there is not the least trace of any such matter, and the whole miraculous tale has no other evidence than the memories of old women. Our map makers have figured the place very significantly.
BOLDON.
To the east of Jarrow and Washington lies the parish of BOLDON. This manor gave title to the provincial Dooms-day Book, called Boldon Book, from the referrences therein to services within Boldon
Boldon.
In Boldona sunt xxij villani, quorum unisquisq. tenet duos bovatas de xxx acris & reddit duos solidos & vj denar. de scacpenynges, & dimid. scatcheldram de avena & xvj d. de averpenys, & v quadrig. de wodlades & ij gall. & x ova, & operatur per totum annum tribus diebus in ebdomada, excepta septimana paschae & pentecostae, et tresdecim diebus natalis d'ni. Et in operatione sua facit in autumno iiij porcationes ad metend. cum omni familia domus excepta huswyva; & praeterea metet iij rodas de averipe & arat iij rodas de avereve & herciat. & praeterea unaqua
que
caruca villanorium arat duas acras & herciat & tunc semel habebunt corrodium episcopi, & tunc sunt quieti de operatione illius ebdomadae, set & quando magnas porcationes faciunt habent corrodium. Et in operationibus suis herciant cum opus fuerit; & faciunt ladas & cum eas faciunt, habet unusquisq. unum panem. Et falcant una die apud Hoctonam & operatione sua us
que
ad vesperam, & tunc habent corrodium. Et faciunt in nundinis S. Cuthberti singuli ij villani unam botham. Et quando ligias faciunt & wodlades
quieti sunt de aliis operationibus.
Duodecim cotmanni, q
n unusquisq. tenet xij acras, operantur per totum annum duobus diebus in ebdomada, exceptis tribus praenominatis festivitatibus, & reddunt xij gallinas & lx ova.
Robertus tenet ij bovat. de xxxvj acr. & reddit dimid. marc.
Punder tenet xij acr. & habet de unaquaq. caruca unam travam bladi, & reddit quaterviginti gallinas & vc. ova.
Molendinum reddit v marcas & dimid.
Villani debent facere singulis annis in operatione suae, si opus fuerit, unam domum longitudinis xl pedum, & latitudinis xv pedum. & tunc cum faciunt sunt quieti unusquisq. de iiij d. de averpenynges.
Tota villa reddit xvij s. de cornagio & unam vaccam de metride.
Dominum est ad firmam cum instauramento iiij carucarum & iiij hercariorum et reddit pro duabus carucis xvj celdr. de avena, & viij celdr. de ordeo & pro duabus aliis carucis x marc.—
Boldon Buke.
Boldon.
Liberi tenentes.
Johannes de Hedworth tenet j mess. & xxxvj. acr. terrae quond'm.
Ricardi de Hedworth & vadit in legation. episcopi, & adducit redditus de Werchall apud Dunolm. per librum de Boldon ibid. &c.—Petrus del Hay tenet &c. D'nus de Nevile, &c. villam de Newton juxta Boldon & redd. p' ann xx s.
Terrae dominicae.
xxvij tenentes tenent ccxxx acr. tener. dominicar. solvendo pro sing. x acr. xxxij s. viij d.
Terrae bond.
Thomas Wake tenet j mess. & ij bovat terrae bond bovat contia. xv. acr. & solebat reddere ij s. vj d. pro scatpenys & xvj d. pro averpenys, & v quadrig. de wodlade ij gallin. & x ova & solebat operati per totum annum iij dies in ebdom. except septimana paschie & pentecost. & xiij diebus in natali d'ni & facit opera sua & iij porcationes in autumno ad metend cum omni familia; domus excepta houswyva & preteria metet iij rod de averipe, & arat iij rod de avereth & herciat, & unaquaq. carucata villan. arat & herciat ij acr. & tunc semel habebit corrodium episcopi, & tunc erit quietus de operatione i
lius ebdom. Et quando facit magn. porcation. habet corrodium & in operationibus suis herciant cum opus suerit & faciunt ladas, & cum eas faciunt habet unusquisq. unum panem, & salcant uno die apud Houghton in operatione sua usq. vesperam & tunc habebit corrodium & faciunt in nundinis S. Cuthberti singuli duo villani j botham & quand. logeas faciunt & wodlades ducunt quieti sunt de aliis operationibus pro ut continetur in libro de Boldon, & faciunt in parco unam domum long. xl pedum, & lat. xv pedum, & cariant unum ton. vini & faciunt opera ad molend. consucta, & cariabunt cariag d'ni episcopi & senesc. & redd. p ann. ad iiij term. usuales xiiij s. ij d.
xxiij tenent. &c. Iidem tenentes solvunt pro cornag. xvij s.—Pro j vacca de metrich vj s.—Pro maltpenys xxvj s. v d.—Pro officio punder lx s.—Pro bathesylver ad term. S. Cuthberti in Sep. ij s. iiij d.—Pro punder viij s.—Pro molend. aquat. & j molend. ventritico p' ann. xvijli. &c.
Tenentes cotag. qui tenent. terr. dominic.
Elias Anfray (& alies) soleb. operari per totum annum ij diebus in Septima, exceptis temporibus festisis supradictis & red &c.
Cotag. sine ten. domin.
Johannes Robinson & alies.
Nova dimiss.
Praedicti xxxij tenentes in bondag. solvunt pro xxxj acr. ter. dom. in tenura sua ut supra & xxij mess. & xliiij bovat. terrae de bond. cum molend. & terra in mora & pastur. supr
script. annuatim xliiijli. unde quilibet eorum xl s. & aven. de scat. & gallin & ova, & cariabunt unam ton. vi
& sustentabunt molendinum sumptibus suis propriis & facient cariag. pro d'no episcopo & senescalio.
Et iidem tenentes in bond qui nihil tenent de dominicis redd. per ann. pro ij mess. & iiij bovat. terrae cum portion. earund. de molend. & pastura superius scripta, quilibet eorum xxx s. ut praedicti xxij de novo dimissione facta dictis tenentibus per Johan. Heron senescal & alios de consilio d
no Thomae episcopi desuncti lx s.
Hatfield's Survey.
Bishop's rents.
—East Bowdon 35l. 10s. 11½d.—West Bowdon, Fatherless field, Jo. Sharp 1l. 3s. 4d. Collection there 9l. 10s. 7s.
. The villains here were under severe duties; for besides various kinds of labour to be performed for the lord in the field, they rendered money payments at the bishop's exchequer, and 16d. each for averpennys, which appears to be a payment in lieu of royal averages
quietum esse de diversis denariis pro averagiis dom. regis,
a service by horse and carriage for conveying the sovereign's ammunition and baggage in time of war, &c. The villains laboured three days in each week throughout the whole year, excepting the weeks of Easter and Whitsuntide, and thirteen days at Christmas, and amongst them to build a house for the lord in his park, forty feet long and fifteen broad, for which they were exempt from one-third of their averpennys: They were privileged at the fairs of St Cuthbert to set up one booth or hut for every two villains, of whom there were twenty-two in Boldon. The cotmanni or cottagers wrought only two days in each week. The pinder here held twelve acres of land in right of his office, and had a thrave of corn from every carucate of land, rendering to the lord yearly twenty-four hens and five hundred eggs: The whole vill paid seventeen shillings cornage, and provided a milch cow for the household. The demesne lands were in farm, and rendered rent in grain, as bread, corn, oats, and barley. In Hatfield's Survey we find the names of the free tenants, among whom is John Hedworth, who served on the bishop's embassies, and was bound to bring up to Durham the bishop's rents of his manor of Werehall. Peter del Hay held lands, and the lord Neville had the vill of Newton. The bond services vary a little from those set forth in Boldon Book; there are malt-pennys and bathe-sylver mentioned: This is the first time the bathe-sylver has occured in the progress of the work, and it is difficult to ascertain what it was. Buthena is defined to imply a park for cattle, and bothena a barony, lordship, or sheriffwick; whether it applied to either of these, we confess ourselves at a loss; perhaps it was stallage-money for the booths or stalls allowed to many of the villains at St Cuthbert's fairs in the city.
In bishop Bury's time, Alicia de Marrays died seised of lands in West Boldon; and Allan Gategant held certain lands there called Fadreless Houses, held
in capite
by homage and fealty. By an inquisition taken on the death of Richard de Hetheworth, or Hedworth, in the second year of bishop Fordham, it appears he died seised of various tenements in Boldon, viz. Scots House and all the lands and tenements that theretofore belonged to Ade Rhodes, Gilbert de Boldon, Roger de Burdon, Ambrose de Southwyk, Ade de Clevedon, and Matilda Gray. This family retained their possessions in Boldon for many generations. The family of Claxtons held lands there called Strothers-field, touching which, in the time of bishop Neville, Ralph earl of Westmoreland came and claimed oyer of an inquisition taken by the escheator on the death of William Claxton, wherein Strotherfield in West Boldon, was found to be held of the bishop
in capite,
and by others in knight's service, and pleaded it was held
in socage
Cursitors Rolls.— Rudd's MSS.
. It appears that the coroner's fee or stipend arose by produce of lands assigned in ancient times; for we find on the 13th of October, second king Edward VI. it was ordered and decreed by Robert Hyndmer, chancellor of this county palatine, that the tenants and inhabitants of Whitburn, Cledon, Holdon, and Boldon, should yearly from thenceforth pay the coroner for the time being his corn in sheaf, as it had been accustomed in times past, unless they could otherwise agree with the coroner
Ibid.
.
The church of Boldon
Boldon Rectory.
—Dedicated to St Nicholas.
K. books 24l. 13s. 4d.—Yearly ten. 2l. 9s. 4d.—Proc. ep. 11s.—Proc. arch. 2s.—Real val. 300l.
RECTORS.
Willielmus
Alverdus
Mag Joh. de Insula, 1311
Hugh de Karliol, oc. 7 Ap. 1334
Joh. de Derby, 1360
Hen. Graspois, 1370, p. res. Derby
Will. de Wyntringham, 1377
Will. de Yarom, 1392, p. m. Wyntringham
Will. Marshall, 1406, p. res. Yarom
Joh. de Tuddowe, 1410
Tho. Hebbeden, LL. D. p. m. Tuddowe
Ric. Kellow, 1430, p. res. Hebbeden
Tho. Butler
Joh. Rominaby, oc. 17 Oct. 1454
Will. Mawdesby, 1501
Galfr. Wren, cl. pr. king Henry VII. 27 June, 1502, Sede vac.
Hen. Davy, LL. B. 1525
Rich. Clyff, S. T. B. 28 June, 1541, p. m. Davy
Rob. Rollis, A. M. 28 Aug. 1563, p. depr. Clyff
Rich. Fawcet, S. T. B. 14 Ap. 1575
Pet. Smart, A. M. 1614
Rob. Chapman, A. M. 25 Mar. 1630, p. depr. Smart
Rob. Pleasaunce, an intruder
Ric. Wrench, S. T. B. 16 Oct. 1665
Cha. Basire, A M. 1675, p. m. Wrench
Sam. Blackwell, 1691, p. m. Basire
Rob. Thornton, A. M. p. res. Blackwell
Hen. Dobson, S. T. P. 1692, p. m. Thornton
Joh. Stackhouse, 1718, p. m. Dobson
Edm. Tew, S. T. P. 1735, p. m. Stackhouse
Joh. Blackett, A. M. 10 Aug. 1770, p. m. Tew
Randal's MSS.
William Wycliffe,
esq
of Wycliffe, in the county of York, purchased of Phil. Monckton, of Carell, in the same county, the
gillie tithes
of Boldon, by indenture dated the 6th of April, 1605. These tithes afterwards became the possession of the family of the Martins of Fulwell, who sold the same to Dr Tew. These are tithes of corn arising from seven hundred acres of land, to which appertain two houses in the township of West Boldon.
Book of rates, Boldon parish.
—B. of rates 6l. 5d.—Yearly val. 780l.—
Grey's MSS.
Land tax at 4s. in the pound.
County rates at 6s. 8d.
Boldon East
27
0
0
1
5
1
Boldon West
20
3
4
0
19
5¾
Mann's MSS.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population from 1660 to 1679
298
53
215
1760 to 1779
221
64
243
Increase
—
11
28
Decrease
77
—
—
Number of Burials in the last year 18.—Computed number of inhabitants 540.
is placed on an elevated situation: It has undergone many modern repairs; the windows are sashed, and the ceilings of stuccoe-work, are neat. The nave is regular, having side ailes; formed by two octagonal pillars on each side, supporting pointed arches. The tower is ornamented with a short spire of stone. From a station a little above the village there is a very extensive prospect, where you command a view of the whole valley northward, with Offerton, Biddick, Washington, Usworth, Jarrow, Shields, Tinmouth, and the rising grounds on the north shore of Tyne.
In the beginning of the fourteenth century various disputes were agitated touching the rights of the rectory of Boldon, in one of which the master of Kepier was interested on behalf of his house, which was adjusted by the bishop; and another relating to certain cattle-gates in grounds called the Heymyngs, on which an inquisition was taken, whereby the right was certified in favour of the rectory
Compositio inter mag. Joh'm de Insula rect. eccl. de Boldon, & Hugonem de Monte Alto mag. hosp. de Kepyre.
Ex archiv. d. & cap. Dun.
Commissio ad inquirend. sup. petitio. Hugonis de Karlioto rectoris de Boldon, &c.
Precept from the bishop to the sheriff dated 16 Feb. 1360, to summons a jury.
Precept from the justices, appointing a time and place, dated 13 May, 1361.
Executio istius precepti patet. in pannello eid. annex.
Inq. cap. apud Dun. &c.—Qui dicunt sup. sacrum suum q'd H. de Carliolo p. eccl. de Boldon tenuit quatuor mess. & sexies viginti acras terrae cum pertin. in Boldon ut de jure eccl. suae p'dce & ipse & o'es predecessores, &c. co'iam pasture ad sexdecim boves in, &c. quodam loco voc le Heynyng omni tempore anni; & in omnibus dominicis terris ejusd. ville videl't. in duabus partibus p' blada metita & asportata usq. alias leminent, & in tercia parte quando jacet Warectum per totum annum cum omnimodis averiis suis ut de jure, &c. a tempore quo non extat memoria. &c.—
Randal's MSS.
.
NEWTON is a separate manor, and by Boldon Book
Newton juxta Boldon.
Johannes Pannetarius tenet Newton juxta Boldon pro xx s. per annum.
In Newtona juxta Boldon tenent xij malemanny xxiiij bovat in unaquaq. de xv acr. & reddunt de singulis duabus bovatis v s. de firma & ij gallinas & xx ova & arant & herciant apud Boldon unusquisq. unam acram, & faciunt de singulis ij bovatis iiij porcationes in autumno cum duobus hominibus.
Uxor Henrici de Montanis tenet xl acras pro xl denariis.—
Boldon Buke.
D'n's de Neville tenet villam de Newton juxta Boldon & redd. p' ann. xx s.—
Hatfield's Survey.
is stated to be the property of John Pannetary, yet thereby it also appears that there were villain tenants of the bishop, who performed their services at Boldon, and are there called
male-men,
a term difficult to define; the most probable conjecture we can form is, that they were so stiled from their rent payments, which we presume were anciently made in grain, and the produce of their lands; for such is the construction given of
maile
or
male
by the best expositors: There was a payment made in the northern counties called black-male, to those who guarded the borders against the banditti of moss troopers; or perhaps the tenants of Newton served as guards on the frontiers, and thence were called male-men. Newton, in bishop Bury's time, gave a local name to a resident family, and Rob. de Newton, in the fifth year of that prelate, died seised of considerable property there. In bishop Hatfield's Survey it appears, that lord Neville then held the vill, one moiety of which he purchased of William son of Tho. Gategan, and the other moiety being the estate of John de Hedworth, he aliened the same to Will. de Hilton, chiv. who sold it to the Nevilles
Ao 8o Skirlaw inq.
, and Ralph earl of Westmoreland aliened the manor to John de Hoton
Ao 6o Langley inq.
of Tudhow, which family afterwards resided at Hardwick near Sedgefield, but how long they held this manor we have not discovered. In bishop Neville's time it was part of the possessions of the barons Hilton.
WHITBURN.
To the east of Boldon lies the parish of WHITBURN. This is a delightful village, situate near the sea banks on the southern inclination of a hill, and a dry soil, commanding a beautiful prospect of Sunderland and the adjacent country. There are some handsome houses in the village, and several families of consequence reside there. We do not find much of Whitburn in the ancient records: In bishop Bury's time a family of Thorals
Inq. p. m. Tho. Thoral, 1o bishop Bury, in pleno com. Dun. cor. vic. Dun. Inq. 6 bishop Bury.
, and also one Nicholas de Gunnays, were seised of lands: The family of Hedworths held possessions there in the time of bishop Hatfield
Inq. p. m. Rich. de Hetheworth, 2 bishop Fordham, cor. R. de Laton esc.
Ao 1o Sinews, 24 Sept.
Licence to John Hedworth,
esq
to alien his manor and lands in Harverton, Overmoor-house, Nethermoor-house, Michal Bedyk, alias Bedyk-furd, Urpeth, West Herrington, Hedworth, Southwyk, Marresfold nigh Boldon, Clevedon, West Boldon, Munckton, Whitburn, Sunderland nigh the Sea, and Durham, to trustees.—
Cursitor's Rolls.—Rudd's MSS.
, which continued united with their other estates for several generations.
The church of Whitburn
Grant by bishop Neville to John Lound rector and his successors sixty acres of land in Whitburn, called Potter Land. 4 Ap. Ao 17o .—
Cursitor's Rolls.
Whitburn rectory.
—The bishop of Durham patron.
K. books 39l. 19s. 4½d.—Y. ten. 3l. 19s. 11¼d.—Proc. ep. 17s.—Proc. arch. 2s.—Real value 400l.
RECTORS.
Will. de Burgo
Joh. de Ryegate, 1245
Ric. de Wellburn, 1316
Tho. Kyrkeby
John Pulhore
John de Appelby, 1352, p. res. Pulhore
Rich. de Wynchecomb, 1362, p. res. Appelby
Will. de Orchard, 1 Jan. 1368, p. m. Wynchecomb
Pet. de Stapylton, 1375, p. m. Orchard
Will. Marnhill, p. m. Stapylton
Tho. de Popylton, 1402, p. res. Marnhill
Tho. Kirkeby, oc. 22 Sep. 1407, p. m. Popylton
Tho. de Lyes, 9 Dec. 1409
John Thoralby, 8 Dec. 1410, p. res. Lyes
John Bonour, d. 10 Nov. 1434, p. m. Thoralby
John Lounde LL. B. 1454
Tho. Popeley, A. M.
Edm. Jackson, LL. D. 1507
Cuth. Marshall,
Here lieth the body of Curtbert Marshall, D. D. late archdeacon of Nottingham, prebendary of Ustwayte, canon residentiary of the metropolitan church of York, of whose soul God have mercy; the burial of whom was the xxvth day of January, in the year of our Lord God 1549.—
Drake's Ebor.
S. T. P. 1525, p. m. Jackson
Rich. Clyff, S. T. B. 12 Apr. 1550, p. m. Marshall
Leonard Pilkington, S. T. P. 28 Aug. 1563, p. depr. Clyff
John Hicks, 1616
Tho. Triplet, A. M. 25 May, 1631
He was turned out and taught school in the south in the times of rebellion; after the king's restoration he was made prebendary of Westminster, and D. D. He gave, Ao 1664, 300l. out of the use of which he ordered 5l. per ann. to be paid to Woodhorn, 5l. to Washington, 5l. to Whitburn, to bind out poor children apprentices, &c. He died aet. 70.
Ric. Hicks, A. M.
He supplied Mr Triplet's place in the rebellion, and upon the restoration conformed.
21 Sep. 1662
Tho. Dockwray, S. T. P. 13 Sep. 1667, p. m. Hicks
He perished the 28th of May, 1672, on board the Royal James, set on fire in a sea fight with the Dutch, being in the same ship with Edward Montague earl of Sandwich, then admiral of the fleet.
Sam. Speed, A. M. 28 Jan. 1672, p m. Dockwray
Tho. Musgrave, A. M. 22 Aug. 1675, p. res. Speed
He got 140l. of Speed for dilapidations, and laid it out in new-fronting the rectory-house.
Sam. Eyre, S. T. B. 1686, p. m. Musgrave
Franc. Blakiston, A. M. 1694, p. m. Eyre
Nath. Ellison, S. T. P. 20 Nov. 1704, p. m. Blakiston
Joh. Wallis,
Buried in Whitburn church, Johan. Wallis, rect. de Whitburn, Na. Crewe nup.
p'o Duncl. & Hen. Duci canoi capellanus. Ouiit anno. et. 42, A. D. 1728. T. H. E. G.
Clevedon & Whitberne.
In Clevedon & Whitberne sunt xxviij villani & unusquis
que
tenet. reddit. & operator sicut illi de Boldon.
Ketellus tenet ij bovatas de xxiiij acras & reddit xvjd. & vadit in legationibus episcopi.
Johannes de Whitberne lx acr. & j toftum & reddit viij s. vadit in legationibus episcopi.
Rogerus xl acr. & j toftum & reddit viij s.
Osbertus filius Leising xxiiij acr. & reddit unam marcam.
Duodecim cotmanni tenent & operantur & reddunt sicut illi de Boldon.
Punderus tenet & reddit sicut illi de Boldon.
Duae villae reddunt xxx s. de cornag. & ij vaccas de metride.
Dominium est ad firmam cum instauramento v carucarum & dimidiae & v hercarior. & dim. redd. pro ij carucis & dim. xx celdr. de frumento, & xx de avena, & x de ordio & pro aliis tribus carucis xv marc.— oves cum pastura de Est supre & de Clevedon sunt in manu episcopi.—
Boldon Book.
Whitburne cum Clevedon.
Hugo de Gylmore tenet &c. j mess. & xxiij acr. terrae per servic. forin. & vadit in legation. episcopi, &c.
Liberi tenentes.
Robertus Hedworth tenet &c. Stephanus Whitgray, Johannes de Kirkby, Will's Swalwells, &c.
Reginaldus Warmouth tenet xij acr. terr. dominicar. & redd. per ann. xxxij s. vj d.—xxx alii tenentes tenant terr. dominicar. parcell. solvend. cartel. redd. per ann.
Tenentes bond.
Reginaldus Warmouth tenet j mess. & ij bovat. Terrae bovat contin. xv acr. & solebat facere in omnibus sicut bondi de Boldon.—Et omnes bondi tenentes de Whitburn & Clevedon tenent consimiliter, & quilibet per se facit in omnibus pro parte sua ut supra.—Iidem tenentes tenent inter se molend. ventric.—Pastur. de Clevedon.—Dominic. toft—Officium punder. cum incremento.—lxxij acr. terrae in mora.
Praedicti tenentes xxviij qui tenent in bondag. pro xxxvj xvj acr. terr. dominicar. in tenur. corum ut supra, & lxj bovat terrae de bond. cum molend. terra in mora & pastur. superius script. solvunt annuatim ad iiij term. lvjli. viz. quilibet corum xl s. & aven. de scat. & gallin. & ova. & cariag. j ton. vini & opera ad molend. cons
eta; & faciunt cariag. pro d'no episcopo senescallo per novam dimission. fact. dictis tenentibus per Joh. Heron tunc senescall. & alios de consilio Thomae nuper episcopi Dunelm. desuncti.—Idem tenentes solv. inter se ad festum natalis d'ni lxviij gallin. & ad fest. pasch. xxxij ova.
Cotag.
Will's Swalwells tenet. &c. & solebat operari sicut illi de Boldon, &c. cum aliis.
Terrae scaccarii.
Tenentes villae tenent inter se herbag. cujusd'm campi vocat. Colynfield, &c.
Terr. vast.
Will's Swalwells, &c. Haec vasta sunt quam plurima xxvij s. viij d.—
Hatfield's Survey.
1292. Inspeximus & confirmation of bishop Anth. Bek's grant of lands in Cleadon, to John of Durham.
Ex orig. pen. Tho. Gyll. arm.—Randal's MSS.
19 Jan. 1283. Edwardus D. g. &c. rex, &c. Inspeximus cartam quam venerabilis pater Anth. Dunolmen
epus fecit Joh'i ville de Dunolm. &c. Omnibus, &c. dedisse. &c pro homagio & servitio suo inter al's. Et duodecim acre in mora de Clevedon juxta terram Alex'i de B
dik, in parochia de Witcberne, & tres acre & dimidia acra & dimidia roda ad exitum ville de Clevedon, in parochia de Withberne & viginti quinq. acre jacent in eadem p'ochia int' novam morem bondor. de Est Boldon & Sikettum Fl
tes. Habend, &c.
27 May, 1721, p. m. Ellison
Edw. Hinton, A. M. 1728
Benj. Pye, LL. D. 1769, p. m. Hinton
Randal's MSS.
stands in a fine open situation, and is a neat edifice: The chancel is five paces in width, and ten paces in length to the three steps leading up to the altar. The east window, consisting of three lights, is under a pointed arch; there are four windows to the south, under pointed arches; and two to the north, one under a circular arch, the other pointed. The nave is regular, having two side ailes, formed by rows of round columns, four on each side, with the ancient roll capitals, supporting pointed arches; it is in length twenty paces, and twelve in width, lighted by three square-top'd windows to the south: The rafters of the roof are vaulted. At the west end of the south aile, railed in, is the ancient burial place of the owners of Cleadon, where lies interred Matthew of Cleadon. There is an altar tomb, with a recumbent effigy cut in a modern dress, with square-toe'd shoes: The date 1689.
This church has a lofty tower, with a blunt spire
Compleat History of Durham, page
620. Several copper coins have been found at this place, of which the most were Constantines, with the sun on the reverse, and these words,
soli invicto comiti.
—One of them was Maxentius's, with something like a triumphal arch on the reverse, and these words,
conservatori urbis.
There were also one or two of L
icinius's, and as many of Maximianus's.
Newcastle newspapers, November
15, 1777. Last week some workmen pulling down an old house at Whitburn, found several pieces of old silver coin of various inscriptions, coined in different reigns, some above 250 years old, and others as late as the reign of king Charles I.
.
In Boldon Book and Hatfield's Survey Clevedon or Cleadon is annexed to Whitburn, as joint members of the same manor: The manor being the bishop's, was in farm, and therein were twenty-eight villains, who held lands and performed services similar to those of Boldon. In the Boldon Book we find the names of Ketellus and John de Whitbern, with others, holding lands there: There were twelve cottagers in the like servitude as those of Boldon, and the pinder had the same privilege. The two vills paid 30s. cornage rent, and provided the houshold with two milch cows. In the survey among the free tenants are the names of several, particularly Hugo de Gilmore, Robert Hedworth, and Reginald Warmouth, holding considerable possessions. In the inquisitions
post mortem,
of bishop Bury's time, others are described as holding
in capite,
as Matilda de Stafforth, who had lands at Cleadon, and John Correy the like, who left a daughter Stigreda, his heiress. The Kirbys, named in the survey, held lands here for several generations. There appears to be a freehold manor of Cleadon, in the hands of a subject, the estate of the Hiltons, and by them conveyed to Roger Thornton, whose possessions centered in the Lumley family, as before noted
Co'pt est p' inq. &c. q'd p'fat. Rog' ten. in d'nico suo ut de feod. &c. com. feoffat. cu. p'fate T. de Pytyngton tria mess. in Clevedon, quor. q'd'lt val. p' ann. ultra repr. 8 d. quator bovat t're cum p't ib. quar. quelt. bov. t're co'tinet xxiiij acras quar. quelt. val. p' an. ult. repr. v d. ex dono & feoffe W'i de Hilton chr. p' nomen W, i d'ni de Hilton mil. f'ct. p'fato Rog'o p' nomen R'i de Thornton & Joh'i de Newton cl. defu'cto ac p'sato T. de Pytyngton cap. adhuc sup'stit. hed. & assign suis imp'p'm p' nomen M'ij sui de Clevedon alias voc. Clesedon in epatu. Dun. una cum o'ibus tr. ten. red. rev'sionib's & serviciis, &c. ten. de d'co d'no E. in Ca. red. si. an. inde ad t'us 13 s. 11 d.—
Inq. p. m. R. Thornton.
Book of rates,
—Whitburn parish: Book of r. 5l. 15s. 6d.—Val. of lands 735l.—
Grey's MSS.
Land tax at 4s. in the pound.
County rates at 6s. 8d.
Cleadon
16
0
3
0
10
6
Whitburn
39
19
4½
1
10
1
Registered estates.—Mr Tho. Wood 20l. a year.
Mann's MSS.
The bishop of Durham against Chambers.—Reg. Off. Lib. K. p. 360, 30 Apr. 13 Car. The custom of grinding at the bishop's mill at Whitburn established, and the defendant restrained from grinding his corn at a mill upon his copyhold lands there.—
Hodg son's MS. Notes.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population from 1660 to 1679
 
 
 
1760 to 1779
 
 
 
Number of burials in the last year.—Computed number of inhabitants.
Bishop's rents, Whitburne, 51l. 3d.—Cleadon 21l. 10s. 6½d.
. There is an old tower at Cleadon, commanding an extensive view; it was some short time ago the seat of the ingenious Mr Dagnia, and afterwards became the possession of Mr Ch. Harrison, formerly an attorney of Sunderland, whose heiress marrying Mr John Wardell, carried this with his other possessions into that family.
MONKWEREMOUTH CHURCH. N. E Aspect.
The Parish of
MONKWEREMOUTH.
St Bega, we are told by Bede, founded a religious society at Monkweremouth
Soon after the year 650.
; she had instituted a monastery in Copeland, in the district of Cumberland, but what induced her to quit the western coast, for the stormy and boisterous shore of the German ocean, we are not told. Particularly attached to maritime situations, when she moved from Weremouth, she built another religious house for the holy sisterhood at Heorthu, now Hartlepool; being of a restless temper, this third foundation could not satisfy her, but she passed southward, and sat down near Tadcaster. It is said she was born in Ireland, and received the veil from bishop Aidan, being the first female who made the religious vow in the territories of Northumberland
Ex vita S. Begae, velatae virginis —
Lel. Col. vol. iv. p.
39.
Bega nota in Hybernia.
Bega primum humile monasteriolum construxit in Coaplandia, ubi nunc sunt aliquot monachi mariani urb
chor. & vulgo vocatur seynet Beges. Deinde ad septentrionalem partem Wirae stuminis monasterium const
uxit. Vide cet. Hartlepool.
. In the fourth year of king Egfrid, A. D. 674, Benedict Biscopius, (whose brotherhood from him took the name of Benedictines) having a grant of sixty hides of lands, founded a religious house here, and dedicated it to St Peter. Lambard, p. 400, speaks thus of him and his undertaking
Bede, lib. iv. cha. 18, gives the following account of this matter.
In the reign of Egfrid. king of Northumberland, one Benedict, an Englishman, came over from Rome, with John the precenter of St Peter's, who was sent by pope Agatho to the synod convened by The sorus, and he built the monastery of Weremouth, becoming abbot there. Having a grant from the king of some lands for an endowment of the abbey, he went to Rome and procured the pope's bull for a further security in the year 680. At his return the pope ordered John the precentor to go along with him, and teach him and his monks the manner of singing used at St Peter's in Rome. John, at his coming hither, performed this part of his commission, taught the monastery church music, and pricked out a course for the choir for a whole year. This manner of church music was quickly spread through most part of the kingdom of Northumberland.
:
This man laboured to Rome five several tymes, for what other thinge I find not, save only to procure pope holye priviledges, and curious ornaments for his monasteries
Jarrow and Weremouth.
; for first he gotte for theise houses, wherein he nourished 600 monks, great liberties; then brought he them home from Rome painters, glasiers, freemasons, and singers, to th' end that his buildinges might so shyne with workmanshipe, and his churches so sounde with melodye, that simple soules ravished therewithe, should fantasie of theime nothinge but heavenlye holynes: In this jolitie continued theise houses, and other by theire example embraced the like, till Hinguar and Hubba, the Danish pyrates, (A. D. 870) weare raised by God to abate their pride, who not only fyred and spoyled them, but also almost all the religious houses of the north east coast of this island.
The introduction of the fine arts did not suit our author's taste; he adds,
And of these thinges Beda and others note him the first author, ascribinge fondlye to his praise that whiche worthelye may be written to his discommendation; for by theise and suche other vanities of will worship, the spiritual service of God began first to be weakened.
It appears from good authorities, that at so early a period Benedict brought into this district masons of the first denomination, pious artists, who employed their hands in holy works; he introduced glazing in public edifices, and the refinement of harmony and song in divine ceremonies: We have no further description of this monastery in its ancient state
Eegfridi regis anno quarto constructum est quoddam nobile monasterium in Wiremuth. Sed ut aliud est Caenobium constructum in loco qui dicitur at' Gyrum Easteruuinus abbas monasterii S. Petri patroclis erat Benedicti abbatis.
Quae scripsit Symeon de vitis Benedicti, Ceolfridi & Easteruuini, excerpta sunt è Beda, qui illorum vitam scripsit. Mortuo Benedicto et Easteruuine. Ceolfridus utrique monasterio praefuit. Sexto decimo postquam monasterium sundaverat anno quievit in domino pridie id. Januar.
Ceolfridus. Jubente pariter & Juvante Benedicto monasterium St Pauli fund.—
Lel. Col. vol. iii.
Tempore Cutheberti floruit Benedictus Biscop. sundator monaster. P. & Pauli in Weremuth & Jarrow.
Ibid. vol. ii. p. 370.
Flore's Hist. P. Math. Westm. Ao 703.
Anno gratiae DCCIII. Sanctus Benedictus abbas Anglicus, post vitam laudabilem, glorioso sine in domino quievit. Hic vir dei de stirpe nobili gentis Anglorum progenitus est, et in adolescentia militiae rudimentis addictus. Denique cum esset minister Oswij regis & possessionem non modicam, ipso donante percepisset, caduca mundi omnia pro Christo spernens. Romam adiit, et ibidem ecclesiastica informatus disciplina militiam assumeret spiritualem, qua sibi prodesset et allis, utilisque minister indominicae posset cultura vineae reperiri. Inde vero rediens apud Lirinensem insulam, se monachorum caetui conjunxit, tonsuram accepit, ubi per b
ennium regulariter institutus, ad limina sanctorum apostolorum Petri & Pauli iterum repedavit. Quo tempore cum papa vitalianus Theodorum cantauriae archiepec. in Britanniam destinavit, ipse simul adveniens, multas secum reliquias sanctorum reportavit. Qui postea regi Northanhumbrorum Egfrido conjunctus, confestim rex ei terram xl samiliarum ad construendum apostolorum principi Petro monasterium contulit ad ostium Wirae fluminis anno gratiae DCLXXIIII. indictione secunda. Sed et aliud monasterium, ad honorem doctoris gentium Pauli in Atgyrum non longe ab altero fabricatur, et a rege prefato, praediis lx familiarum acceptis, multipliciter illud ditare curavit. Haec autem monasteria religiosis implens monachis, Ceolfridum in uno Ersteruinum in altero praepositos ordinavit. Hoc ideo fecit. ut tam in ejus absentia, quam in praesentia, regularus semper custodia servaretur. Huic denique samulo Dei Benedicto Beda venerabilis & doctor Anglorum, traditur nutriendus, sub quo etiam ad ordinem sacerdotis legitur suisse promotus. Quinquies Romam petisse asseritur, qui semper rediens divinorum locupletatus commedorum subjectos instituere, opere pariter et exemplo, curavit. Tandem post vitam laudabilem victor. viciorum Benedictus, confessor Christi piissimus, carnis infirmitate victus, pridie Idus Januarij spiritum reddit creatori. Successit ei in onere & honore vir sanctus & ejusdem discipulus, Ceolfridus, sub quo Beda Christi famulus ad universalis utilitatem ecclesiae de scripturis sanctis, laborem inchoatum laudabiliter adimplevit.
N. B. Wilfrid glazed York cathedral in 670, but it is presumed he imported the glass.
. The reader will find a short account of the pious Benedict in the notes. In Bentham's History of Ely, p. 21, we are informed the workmen employed in this edifice were brought by Benedict from France, and that within the compass of a year after the foundation was laid, he caused the roof to be put on, and divine service to be performed in it: He continues,
Afterwards, when the building was finished, he sent over to France for artificers skilled in the mystery of making glass, (an art till that time unknown to the inhabitants of Britain) to glaze the windows both of the porticos and principal parts of the church; which work they not only executed, but taught the English nation that most useful art.
We are not informed in what manner the monastery was restored, or by whom, after the Danish devastations; but when king Malcolm of Scotland made his inroad in the year 1070, he ravaged many parts of this palatinate, and burnt the monasteries of Weremouth and Hartlepool. We have few accounts of the ostium of the Were being frequented by shipping in these early times, but from the choice of situations, are induced to believe what led the founders of religious houses to fix upon Weremouth and Jarrow, was their being the station of mariners, who in all ages were objects for religious reformation; and yet another and perhaps not less essential cause occurs, they were accustomed to present gifts for propitiation, which would assist the maintenance, if not increase the riches, of the religious societies. When Malcolm made that progress, he found Edgar with his family and followers embarked, and lying in the haven waiting wind and tide, for their voyage to Scotland; and it is more than probable the king's intention was to cover that retreat. This circumstance shews that the port was of some note in the eleventh century
Vide vol. i. p. 108.
Scala Chronica.—
Lel. Col. vol. ii. p.
531.
. It is wonderful that Turgot, who took the monkish habit at this place, should not speak of its history during so long a space of time, as from the incursion of the Danes to the year 1075, a period of 205 years, or mention the restored edifice, the return of the society, and the destruction made by Malcolm. Thus dark as the long interval remains, we must pursue the facts which he delivers down: Part of the religious society of Jarrow (which we are apt to conceive was become too numerous by the monks who were driven from Weremouth seeking refuge there) determined to form a colony, with Aldwin at their head, and settle in the north, whilst another prepared for a southern settlement, headed by Renfred: Aldwin, with his followers, sat down at the ruined huose of Melros, where they suffered much persecution, refusing to swear allegiance to Malcolm, who then possessed that territory
Vide vol. i. p. 115. Also Jarrowe.
. Bishop Walcher was displeased with this emigration, which was not only made without his consent, but also militated against a plan he had formed, though not made public: He dispatched messengers to entreat the return of the northern colony, and wrote letters of invitation; but in case of disobedience, the messengers were charged with more rigorous commands, and the terrors of excommunication were directed to be announced. On Aldwin's return to this diocese, in the year 1075, the bishop placed him at Weremouth. Turgot then tells us
Tunc ecclesiam S. Petri, cujus adhuc soli parietes semiruti steterant, succisis arboribus, cradicatis vepribus & spinis, quae totam occupaverant, curarunt expurgare, & culmine imposito, quale hodie cernitur, ad agenda divinae laudis officia stategerant restaurare.
Ubi de virgis facientes habitacula, &c.
Symeon Dunelm. p. 203, 204, &c.
This relation affords some surprise, for according to other authorities, it was only in the year 1070 that Malcolm laid his destroying hand on those edifices, and in the space of five years few trees, thorns, or briers could grow over the ruins. Lambard still creates greater confusion in the matter, who says,
Aldwyn of Evesham, or Winchecombe as others say, accompanied with two or thre other, toke the place of byshop Walchers guifte, covered the churche, and somewhat repaired the house, and stoared it with companie: But before they had longe rested theare, the destruction which William the Conquerour made in the north countrye, and the fire of Malcolme kinge of Scottes came upon theim, and caused theim to forsake the place for a season. And when they ment to have returned, William, then bishop of Durham, compelled them to come to Durham abbay, and made the house and cell subject to the same,
&c. This account destroys every degree of chronology, for bishop Walcher did not come to the See till 1072. To solve the difficulty, it seems likely there were two religious edifices, one north of Were, destroyed by the Danes, of which Jarrow was a filiation, and another erected perhaps after that destruction, on the south of Were, which Malcolm ruined: And this conjecture is not totally groundless; for Tanner, in his Notitia
Under the title Bishopweremouth.
Tanner's Notitia, p. 14. King Egfrid gave this town to the famous abbot Benedict Biscopius, who, A. D. 674, founded a monastery here, and dedicated it to St Peter. It suffered in the Danish wars, and was burnt down in the inroad made by Malcolm king of Scotland, A. D. 1070: But was afterwards begun to be reedified by Walcher bishop of Durham, whose successor William de Carilepho
Lel. Col. vol. i. p. 383, 384.—The summa inde is also 26l. in Stevens, vol. i. p. 26; but 26l. 9s. 9d. in MS. Valor.
about A. D. 1083, removed most of the monks to Durham, to which Weremouth became a cell for three or four Benedictine monks.
Complete History of Durham, p. 619. Bede calls it Wiranmuth, now commonly called Monkweremouth, because it lies at the mouth of the river, and before the Reformation belonged to the monks. William of Malmsbury writes thus of it:
The Were flowing into the sea here, kindly receives the ships that are brought in with a gentle wind; upon
each bank whereof
Benedict Bishop built a church, and likewise in the same places founded two monasteries, one to St Peter another to St Paul.
The author of the additions to Camden charges this quotation out of Malmsbury with a mistake, and says, our historians all agree, that he built St Peter's church at Girwy or Jarrow, which is some miles distant from this place, but does not produce their words.
, makes a mistake in the situation of St Peter's, perhaps through the confusion there appears in ancient history. After this last settlement the bishop gave the vill of Weremouth, with Sudwick, for the maintenance of the religious fellowship there; but their residence was soon disturbed, by bishop William de Carilepho carrying into effect the design of his predecessor, and removing the Benedictine monks to Durham, in the year 1083; from which period Weremouth became a cell for three or four monks only of that order, subordinate to the monastery of Durham. Prior Richard de Claxton, resigning his government of the monastery, had assigned for maintenance the cell of Weremouth, with the tithes of Sudwick; and prior Galfrid de Burdon, in the year 1332, had that cell assigned him, with the tithes of Fulwell. At the dissolution, the whole revenues did not, according to the utmost estimate, amount to more than 26l. 9s. 9d. yearly; and in the thirty-seventh year of king Henry VIII. the rights of the monastery were granted out to one Thomas Whitehead
It was valued, 26th Hen. VIII. at 25l. 8s. 4d. per ann. Dugdale.—26l. Speed.
Vide Mon. Angl. tom. i. p. 96.—Matt. Westm. Ao 703.—Lel. Col. vol. ii. p. 348, 349.
Monkweremouth curacy.
This is a discharged living in the deanry of Chester, and a peculiar belonging to the dean and chapter of Durham. The church retains the ancient dedication to St Peter. Sir Hedworth Williamson is the patron.
Yearly value 4l. 16s. 8d.—Proc. ep. 4s.
The perpetual advowson of this living was part of the estate of John Hilton,
esq
of Hilton, and worth in 1747, 49l. per ann. and upwards, arising from the following particulars.—A pension paid yearly out of the exchequer by the king's receiver at Durham of 5l. 6s. 8d. out of which 10s. is deducted for fees, the nett sum received being 4l. 16s. 8d.—Queen Ann's bounty of 200l. fell by lot, for which 2½ p' cent. was received▪ 5l. A second bounty of 200l. was added by means of contributions amounting to 200l. raised by the patron and other benefactors, making together 400l. from which arose a further annual income of 10l. commencing the 1st of May, 1751.—Surplice fees
(communibus annis)
may be reckoned at 20l. and Easter offerings at 10l.—In all 49l. 16s. 8d.
CURATES.
John de Blith, 1384
Will. Houghell, cur. 1563
Tho. Blackston, 12 Mar. 1565
Edm. Stapleton, 1571
Will. Reiseley, 1575
Will. Watson, 31 Jan. 1586
Geo. Carr, 1609
Fra. Todd
Rich. Hicks, A. M. lic. 13 Sep. 1638, p. m. Todd
Joh. Hicks, A. B. 15 Mar. 1662, p. res. Hicks
Edm. Bowey, A. M. 1667, p. m. Hicks
John Morland, cl. 1724
Tho. Hilton, A. M. 1736, p. res. Morland, pres. J. Hilton of Hilton castle
Fra. Grindall, 1739, p. m. Hilton, pres. i'b'm
Tho. Gooday, cl. 1742, p. m. Grindall, pres. i'b'm
Joh. Ivison lic. 26 May, 1768, p. m. Gooday, pres. Sir Hedw. Williamson, bart. Whitburn
Cooper Abbs
Randal's MSS.
A chantery ad altare Sancti Laurentij was founded in this church in the year 1220 by A. de Hilton, for his own and his ancestors souls.—
Ibid.
Monkweremouth parish.
Book of rates.
Value of lands.
 
£.
s.
d.
£.
s.
d.
 
9
8
9
1149
15
4
Grey's MSS.
Land tax at 4s. in the pound.
County rates at 6s. 8d.
Fulwell
9
16
0
0
9
1
Hilton
21
0
0
1
10
9
Monkweremouth and Shore
16
2
3
0
15
7¼
Sudwick
18
0
0
1
10
9
Mann's MSS.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population from 1660 to 1679
508
73
322
1760 to 1779
2162
689
2456
Increase
1654
616
2134
Number of burials in the last year 163.—Computed number of inhabitants 4890.
☞ The author owes grateful acknowledgments to the Rev Mr Abbs of Monkweremouth, for communicating counsellor Grey's MSS. of which so much use has been made in this work.
Dean and chapter's rents: Southwick 19l. 7s. 9d.—Fulwell 21l. 16s.—Monkweremouth 12l. 11s.
.
There are several remains of the monastic buildings, which form three sides of a square, with the church; but none of the offices can be ascertained from the edifice now standing. The present church consists only of the nave and north aile, the south aile having been totally destroyed: The tower is most ancient, and probably has stood from the eleventh century, being supported on heavy and low arches, and the chancel is divided from the nave by a heavy circular arch, much like the arches of Jarrow in form, but more lofty and extended: The north aile is formed by two round pillars and three pointed arches, and the east window of the chancel is under a pointed arch, and formed of five lights. The nave is remarkably narrow in proportion to its length, being little more than five paces wide, and twenty-two long; the aile is also five paces wide. On the north wall of the chancel is a monument of the Hilton family
Arms: Hiltons quartering the arms of Musgrave.
; and in an adjoining porch, is the mutilated effigy of a man in a coat of mail, with elevated hands, and a sword sheathed at his left side, which appears to have belonged to the monument before noted.
MONKWEREMOUTH-HALL, erected on the scite of the old monastery, is the property of Sir Hedworth Williamson
Dunelm. Mich. 4th James II. In quodam libro decretor. scaccarij. Sir Tho. Haselrigg, & al. v. ep. Dunelm. & French, &c.
, and was for some time the place of his family's residence
Dame Dorothy Williamson, wife of Sir Thomas, being seised in fee simple of a moiety of the scite of the cell at Monkweremouth, by deed dated 18th October, 1682, between Sir Thomas and Dame Dorothy of the one part, and Sir Robert Markham, John White,
esq
and Rob. Haselrig,
esq
of the other part, did, by fine, convey her moiety to the said trustees and their heirs, in trust to dispose the same for the benefit of such person as by writing or last will she should appoint. Sir Tho. Haselrigg seised of the other moiety by lease and release, of the 1st and 2d of July, 1689, made between him of the one part, and said John White and Rob. Shaftoe,
esq
of the other part, conveyed to the said trustees his said moiety upon the like trusts.— Dame Dorothy, by her last will, dated 28th October, 1699, devised the premisses to Sir Tho. Williamson for life, remainder to Sir William Williamson for life, remainder to trustees to support contingent remainders, with remainder to his first and other sons in
ail male, with divers remainders over. Various subsequent settlements have been made in 1728, 1733, &c.
In Monkweremouth church.
Sub hoc marmore
Mortalitatis exuvias deposuit
D. Thomas Willliamson
De aula Monkweremouthensi in
Com. palatino Dunelmensi
Baronettus.
Thomae Williamson de Markham orientali
In argo Nottingham' mil. & ba
ti
Filius natu max.
Nec non universae ejusdem familiae
Caput
Obiit April xxviij.
An. Dom. MDCCIII.
Non mihi ponantur titulus operosa superbis
Saxa, supervacuos nec captet pulvis honores,
Seú contra fortunae ictus constantia mentis,
Seu probitas morum fuerit, seu cultus honesti
In regem; fides, nullis concussa periclis.—
At, vos, opotius defuncti in nomen euntes,
Qualis eram seris imitando ostendite sec'lis
Manibus hoc patrui supremum mittite munus;
Haec monumenta, mihi quae solum grata, locate,
Et forsan mansura diu, si pristina facta
Majorum poscant, non inferiora nepotes.
In the vault underneath lieth the body of that excellent person Dame Dorothy Williamson, the late infinitely beloved wife of Sir Thomas Williamson, formerly of East Markham, in the county of Nottingham, but now of North Weremouth-hall, baron, one of the daughters and coheiresses of Geo. Fenwick of Brenkborne, in the county of Northumberland,
esq
who, to the great grief of not only her said husband, but likewise to all relations, friends, and neighbours, departed this life on the 4th of November, 1699, which was the day of her birth, and the 54th year of her age.
Memoria pius aeterna.
Memorandum. The abovesaid lady Williamson gave at her death these charities: To the poor of the towns following yearly for ever, viz. North Weremouth town 1l. — North Weremouth shore 3l.— Hilton 1l. Suddick 1l.—Fulwell 1l.—Bishopweremouth 1l.—Sunderland 2l.
. Lord Crewe, whilst bishop of Durham, contended against certain rights claimed on the north shore of Sunderland haven, which were confirmed by proceedings at law to the Williamsons.
This place is very greatly increased in buildings, population, and wealth within the last twenty years. There are now five carpenters yards constantly employed for ship-building; which, with the dependent articles of manufactory, engage a multitude of workmen.
OF FULWELL we find nothing remarkable in history
Gentleman's Mag. Oct. 1763. "A few weeks ago a gentleman from Durham shewed me some large teeth and two Roman coins. The teeth he said he took out of the jaw of a gigantic skeleton of a man, and the coins were found in the grave near it. The account he gives is in the substance as follows. Upon Fulwell hills, near Monkweremouth, within a measured mile of the sea, there are quarries of lime which he rents of the proprietor. In the year 1759 he removed a ridge of lime-stone and rubbish, upon one of these quarries, which was about twenty-five yards in length from east to west, its perpendicular height about a yard and a half, its breadth at the top was near six yards, and the sides were sloping like the ruins of a rampart. In the middle of this bank was found the skeleton of a human body, which measured nine feet six inches in length; the shin bone measuring two feet three inches from the knee to the ankle; the head lay to the west, and was defended from the superincumbent earth by four large flat stones, which the relater, a man of great probity, who was present when the skeleton was measured, and who himself took the teeth out of the jaw, saw removed. The coins were found on the south side of the skeleton, near the right hand.
(Signed) "P. Collinson."
; or of SUDDICK, alias SOUTHWICK
The family of Hedworth having acquired possessions here, John Hedworth,
esq
in the time of bishop Bainbrig, obtained licence to alien the same to trustees. And in bishop James's time, R. Hedworth, son and heir of John Hedworth, had special livery of the manor of Suddick.—
Rudd's MSS.
5th Oct 12th Ja. 1614. By an inquisition then taken we find an instance of the bishop claiming wreck of the sea east on shore, on Fulwell sands, within the dean and chapter's liberty, seized by Rand the bishop's water bailiff to the use of the bishop and dean and chapter, in moieties according to ancient agreement.
In the 23d, 24th, and 25th of king Edward I. Rob. Hilton of Hilton, had summons to parliament among the barons of the realm.—In the 4th of king Edward II. he was on the Scotch expedition —Alex. de Hilton 7th king Edward III. served in the Scottish wars, under R. lord Neville, and had summons to parliament the 6th and 9th of that reign.—
Bourne's Hist. Newcastle. p.
82.
Inq. p. m. Alex. de Hilton chiv. 16 Hatfield, co. Will. de Claxton esc Dun.—He h
ld of the bishop in capite, the manors of Hilton, Berneston, and Neuton, by a knight's fee and a half, and suit of court. And also the manors of Forth, Grendon, and Cloncroft, by a knight's fee and suit of court.
13th bishop Neville. Exemplification of an inq. taken of the possessions of Sir Rob. Hilton, knight. In the margin
p' barone de Hilton.
Hilton manor. Et quod sunt in eodem manerio una aula, quatuor camerae una capella duo horrea una coquina, una domus vocat le gatehouse.—The advowson of the church of Hilton, Newton manor, Berneston manor, Forth manor, a ferry over the Were called Bone ferry, a fishery and stone quarry, Grindon manor, Great Usworth manor, manor of Bydick near Wessynton.
William his son and heir.
Livery to William Hilton, son and heir of Sir Robert. In the margin of the roll called William baron de Hilton. Dated 1st July, Ao 13o Neville.
Li
to Will. Hilton, arm bar. de Hilton. to alien all the above manors, &c.
7o bishop Fox, pardon of Sir Will. Hilton, of all murders, misdemeanors, &c.
William Hilton,
esq
son and heir of Sir William, 2d king Henry VII.
10o bishop Tunstall. Livery to Sir Thomas Hilton, son and heir of Sir William late baron of Hilton.
2d bishop James. Livery to Henry Hilton, cousin and heir of Sir William.—
Rudd's MSS.
Breve innocenti Johanni de Hilton, domicello i. e. baronis de Hilton, filio primogenito data Avenione 16 k. Maij pontificat. 4o anno (A. D. 1356
hic linearum extremae partes abeissie sunt. Videtur confessori ejus permittere, ut ei in articulo mortis (
tamen conditionibus) plenam peccatorum remissionem concedat. B. ii. fo. 3, d. & cha. lib.—
Randal's MSS.
, in which latter place the family of Hedworth long continued to have possessions.
HILTON MANOR, with the Castle, was the possession of the family of the Hiltons before the Norman Conquest, and continued above seven hundred years, to the time of John Hilton,
esq
the last male heir, who died there the 25th of September, 1746, and left his estates by will to Sir Richard Musgrave of Hayton Castle, in the county of Cumberland,
esq
his nephew, by his eldest sister, provided he took the name of Hilton by act of parliament. Sir Richard died on the 16th of June, 1755. The castle of Hilton and almost all the rest of the family estates, were decreed to be sold for payment of the debts of John Hilton,
esq
in Sir Richard's life-time. This manor, with the castle, and about 900l. a year in lands, in 1758, were sold to Mr Wogan the younger, then lately returned from the East-Indies, for 30,000l. and upwards, but that sale not being perfected, the estates were purchased by Mrs Bowes, relict of George Bowes of Gibside,
esq
HILTON CASTLE, seated in a vale on the river Were, is graced with many hanging woods and ornamental plantations, in long extended avenues; and though possessing few beauties of situation, and much shut up from prospect, yet may be justly called a pleasing retirement. Part of the ancient baronial house remains, but it has undergone such reformations and changes, that it is now difficult to ascertain the date of any distinct part of the present edifice. The center of the west front consists of the great entrance and gateway, defended by square projecting turrets, crowned with hanging parapets which cross the angles transversly, like those on the old towers at Lumley, so as to make an aperture over each face of the square, for the purpose of annoying assailants. This form indicates that those parts of the two castles were nearly of the same date. The center is flanked with circular turrets, which now garnish the wings of the building, of modern construction: The battlements of the ancient part are ornamented with human figures. In the center are several shields of arms, but disposed so irregularly as to testify the present building did not first receive them. In the highest place are the royal arms, three fleur-de-lis quartering three lions passant, and beneath, in a confused form, are the arms of Graystoke, Lumley, Brabant, Percy, Ogle, Conyers, and several others. On the turrets are several shields of arms, among which are those of Surtees and Bowes. The east front has the ancient tower in the center, with a square projecting front without turrets. It is ornamented with the arms of the Hiltons, without quarterings, the head of Moses the crest; above which is a large
HILTON CASTLE
figure in relief, of a stag at rest, collared and chained. There are two uniform wings of modern work, and an elegant portico in the center, of the highest Gothic stile. The mansion is neglected, and contains nothing within that merits noting. The back grounds are laid out in slopes and terraces, at the termination of the uppermost of which stands the ruined chapel, once noted for its elegance and ornaments
The present gentleman, John Hilton,
esq
a regular descendant of this ancient family, lives in the place of his ancestors, which he has adorned and beautified beyond what was done in past ages; in particular the chapel, famous in this country for its Irish wood, is so furnished with plate and books, and other necessaries, that it merits the character of a very beautiful chapel.—
Bourne's Hist. Newcastle, p.
82,
printed
1736.
Hylton, in the reign of k. Athelstan, was in the possession of Syr Wm Hylton, knt. whose son Adam Hylton, gave to the monastery of Hartlepool a crucifix of silver, of 25 ounces weight, and caused his arms to be engraven on it, as also on the gate. He likewise gave the said monastery a cope and vestments, with silver to make a censor.—
Descrip. of Engl. and Wales, published
1769.
Chapel of Hilton 6l. 14s. 4d.—
Randal's MSS.
Harl. MSS.
1499. This ys the pedigre of S. Willyam Hilton, knyght, called the baron of Hilton.
Syr Willyam Hilton, knyght, baron of Hilton, maried Marie dought. and quoheire of Stapulton of Westmerland, and heyre of Vipont, & by hyr he had yssue Willyam son & heyre. Ellen maryed to Ewan lord Ogle. Elizabeth maried to Rauff Claxton.
Syr Willyam Hilton, knight, baron of Hilton, son of Willyam, maried Margery dought. of Bowes, & by her he had yssue Willyam son & heyre.
Syr Willyam Hilton, knight, baron of Hilton, son of Willyam, maried Sybell dought. of Thomas Lomely, son & heyre of the lord Lumley, & by her he had yssue S. Thomas Hilton, knyght; Willyam ijd son: Anne maried to S. Rauss Hedworth, knyght.
Syr Thomas Hilton, knyght, son & heyre of S. Willyam Hilton of Hilton, maried Elisabeth dought. & heyre to John Clarvax of Croft, esquier.
Vis. of Norroy, k. at arms, 1530.
Hilton chapel within Hilton castle.—Dedicated to St Katerine.—Yearly value 6l. 13s. 4d.
The prior and convent of Durham, by indenture, granted to the lords of Hilton for the time being, for themselves, their wives, and children, free burial in the chapel of Hilton, or in the cemitery of the same; and Sir Rob. de Hilton granted to the said prior and convent liberty to gather the tithes of Hilton, Reston, and Newton, and to carry them through any roads where the lords of Hilton and their tenants gathered and carried their corn and hay, without let or hindrance of any one. Sir Robert de Hilton, by another indenture, granted to the prior and convent of Durham one place in the vill of Hilton, for building a barn to lay their tithe in. An agreement was made between Germain, prior of Durham, and Alex. de Hilton, concerning the chapel of Hilton.—The chapel of Hilton was resigned into the hands of the prior of Durham.
Chaplains.
—Tho. de Yolton, 1220—Will. Harpyn, 1249, p. m. Yolton—Geoffry de Levesham, 1297—T. de Hilton, 1321—Will. de Hilton, 1322—Will. Byngham—Joh. Blakewell, 1443, p. m. Byngham — Rob. Staynton, 1450, p. m. Blakewell—Ric. Cresswell, 1462, p. m. Staynton — Ric. Bowman, 1471, p. res. Cresswell — Rob. Spragayne, 1503, p. m. Bowman, exch. with Will. Fabayne, 1508—Tho. Stevenson, 1531, p. m. Fabayne—Jos. Marshall, 1536, p. res. Stevenson.
The chantry of St Mary, within Hilton castle chapel.
Chaplains.
—Tho. de Scham—Rob. de Byllingham, 1322.—
Randal's MSS.
The gatehouse, which is all that remains of the old castle, shews how large it has been, with the chapel, a sine structure, wherein there were chaplains in constant attendance.—
Gibson's Camden.
. On the west front are three shields of arms; in the center, Hilton's quartering Vetripont's; on the dexter side, the supporters are lions; on the sinister side the same arms, the supporters are stags.
We have a description of this castle in the rolls of bishop Nevil, about the year 1450, when it consisted of a hall, four chambers, a chapel, two barns, a kitchen, and a house called the gate house. The present center of the building is five stories in height, and most probably is the edifice described in the record, comprehending the hall and four chambers. The family of Hilton was not only one of the most eminent in this province, but also one of the most opulent, as appears by their possessions mentioned in the notes.
The following account of the Hiltons is taken from a manuscript in the possession of the Musgraves of Hayton:
Three hundred years before the Conquest, even in the reign of king Athelstan, one of the Saxon monarchs, the family of Hyltons were settled in England in great reputation, as appears by a certain inscription at Hartlepool. That upon the coming over of William the Conqueror, Lancelot de Hylton, with his two sons Henry and Robert, espoused his cause and joined him; but that Lancelot was slain at Feversham in Kent. That to the elder son Henry, the Conqueror gave a large tract of land on the banks of the river Were, not far from Weresmouth; a reward for his own and his father's valour. That this Henry built Hylton castle in the year 1072, was one of the deputies that treated with the Conqueror concerning the four northern counties, and in the service of that prince, was at last slain in Normandy. That in the reign of Edward III. John Hylton, who sent four of his sons into the wars of France, under the command of the Black Prince, was first created baron of Hylton castle, for his gallant defence of it against the Scots incursions. That this peerage continued in the family for seven successions, till at last it was forfeited upon account of some unguarded words, whereof the then bishop of Durham gave the court information, which William the seventh and last baron of the family spoke against the queen, and her favourite De Le Pole. That upon the death of this William, which was thought to have been violent, the crown seizing upon the estate, gave it to the informing bishop, who held it for some time, to the utter exclusion of the rightful heir. That in process of time however, Lancelot, the grandson to the aforesaid William, was restored to his castle and part of his estate, no more of it indeed than what the bishop thought fit to allow him under this hard condition, that he and his heirs for ever should hold the moiety that was given them under certain rents and services to the Sec of Durham, and have the title of barons (but barons to the bishopric) annexed to their inheritance; and in that condition it has continued ever since. In the pedigree of the Hyltons there are several names remarkable for their learning and piety, but almost innumerable those highly renowned for their martial deeds. War seems to have been the pleasure, genius, and recreation of the Hyltons, nor has any family been more lavish of their blood in defence of their country's cause. Since the time of the Conquest it is remarked of the Hyltons, that one was slain at Feversham in Kent, one in Normandy, one at Mentz in France, three in the holy wars under Richard I. one in the same under Edward I. three at the battle of Bourdeaux, under the Black Prince, one at Agincourt, two at Berwick upon Tweed against the Scots, two at the battle of St Albans, five at Market Bosworth, and four at Flodden Field.
This MS. account is given as it came to the author's hands, some principal errors will appear in the comparison of the records.
BISHOP WEARMOUTH.
The Parish of
BISHOP WEREMOUTH.
South Weremouth, or as it was afterwards called Bishop's Weremouth, to distinguish it from the seat of the monks on the northern shore of Were, was not of much inferior antiquity, being restored to the See by Athelstan in the beginning of the tenth century, under the distinguishing appellation of the delightful villa of South Weremouth, with its appendages, Weston, Offerton, and Silksworth, together with the two Ryhopes, Birden, Seham, Seaton, Dalton, Dalden, and Hesilden; which places, by the royal grant, are stated to have been wrested from the church in former times, "through the malignity of evil men"
Vol. i. p 68, vide note.
Lel Itin. vol viij. Ex antiquo codice Dunelmensis: Elstanus rex Wermuth australem cum suis appendic
anit S. Cuthberto. Chronica feretri S. Cuthberti: Ethelstanus rex restituit S. Cuthbert
Were
cum undecim villis. Ethelstanus rex multa ornamenta ecclesiastica dedit ministris S. Cuthberti.
Were
slu. quod Akelandam & Dunholmum praeterlabitur a Ptolemaeo
Vedra
a Bed
em nunc
,
u
c
Murus
dicitur. Oritur vero in Weresdale, & apud Wermuth in mare se exone
t. —
Lel. Col. vol.
i.
. It is not ascertained how soon a church was built here, but probably the foundation was not long subsequent to the restitution made by Athelstan, though no rector or other incumbent occurs in the church records before the beginning of the thirteenth century. Notwithstanding the severance of Sunderland from this parish, by act of parliament, by virtue of which Sunderland was created a separate rectory, as will afterwards be noted; yet this is a very opulent living, being computed worth one thousand pounds a year.
The ancient village stood chiefly on the southern inclination of the hill, on the crown of which is the church; but from the increasing wealth and population of Sunderland, the ground which formerly divided the two places is now eagerly sought after by persons of opulence and trade, who have arranged handsome villas on each side of the road, so that in a few years the buildings of these places will meet.
The church
Weremouth rectory.
—Dedicated to St Michael.—In Easington deanry, and the archdeaconry of Durham. Bishop of Durham patron.
K. books 89l. 18s. 1½d.—y. ten. 8l. 19s. 10¼d.—Proc. ep. 1l. 18s.—Proc. arch. 2s.—Real value 800l.
RECTORS.
Frater Adam de Marisco, (or Marsh) about 1217
Will. de Dunelmo
Adelmare, (or Ethelmar) 1250, p. m. Dunelmo
Rich. de Kirkham, 1252
Will. Heyremin, (or de Ayreminne) 1317
John de Eston, 1341
Will. de Newport, 1360
Dav. de Wollour, 1366, p. m. Newport
Simon Cardinal S'ti Sixti, 1370, p. m. Wollour
Tho. de Newby, 1372, p. res. Simonis
D'nus Rob. Gebenens, titulo 12 apost. S. Rom. eccl. p'b'r Card. oc. 16 June, 1375
Will. de Packington, 1381
Rog. de Holme, 1390, p. m. Packington
John de Denham, oc. 18 March, 1399, (can. ebor.) p. m. Holme
Mr Rich. de Holme, 140
John Newton, 1424, p. m. Holme
R. de Elvet, 1426, p. m. Newton
Tho. Leys, 3 Dec. 1431, p. m. Elvet
Geo. Retclyffe, 1483
Ric. Nykke, (or Nix) 23 Dec. 1494, p. m. Retclyffe
Ric. Wyatt, cl. 8 April, 1502, p' promoc. Henry VIII. See vac.
Will. Carther, S. T. P. 1 July, 1546, p. m. ult. incum.
Tho. Pattenson, cl. 1548, p. res. Carther
Ad. Hallyday, S. T. B. 1560, p' dep. See vac. Eliz. r.
Toby Matthew, S. T. P. dean of Durham, ind. 28th May, 1590, p. m. Hallyday
Fran. Burgoyne, S. T. B. Ap. 1595, p' prom. Matthew
John Johnson, A. M. 25 Feb. 1632, p. m. Burgoyne, p. Tho. ep. Dun.
Chr. Sherwood, S. T. P. 20 Jan. 1643, p. m. Johnson, p. Tho. ep. Dun.
Rob. Grey, S. T. B. 1 Ap. 1652, p. m. Sherwood, p. Tho. ep. Dun.
Will. Johnson, A. M. an intruder, held a court 23 Oct. 1650
Sam. Hammond, a second intruder, held courts 19th Aug. 1651, and 26th April, 1652
Wm Graves, cl. a third intruder, held courts 5th Dec. 1654, and 26th April, 1660
Rob. Grey, lawful rector, S. T. P. 1652, p. m. Sherwood, his first court 2d June, 1661
John Smith S. T. P. 28 July, 1704, p. m. Grey
John Bowes, S. T. P. col. Aug. 1715
John Laurence, A. M. 1721, p. m. Bowes
Wadham Chandler, A. M. 1732, p. m. Laurence
Henry Bland, A. M. col. Aug. 1735, p. res. Chandler, for Sherburn hospital
Will. Radley, A. M. col. 8 Sep. 1768, p. m. Bland
Henry Egerton, cl. 1776, p. m Radley.
Randal's MSS.
The parish register begins
Si quis registrum hoc mutilare in ulla parte, vel nomen aliquod delere, addere, aut in falsum immutare, vel quovis alio modo violare audeat, pro sacrilego habeatur a domino. Tho. Broughton curatus.
—The above Mr Broughton has kept all the registers in a most exact manner and they are continued to the present time in the best form of any parochial registers in the county; the births are inserted as well as the baptisms.—
Mr Allan's Notes.
There was a chantry of the Blessed Virgin Mary in this church, of the yearly value of 3l. 15s. 4d. Cui p'tinuit unum burgagium in Sunderland, cum parcella terrae in posteriori ejus parte clausur. et quatuor acrae et dimid. acrae prati cum pertinentiis. Ra. Parkinson, the last incumbent at the dissolution in 1547, had a yearly pension of 3l. which he lived to receive in 1553.—
Randal's MSS.
, though disfigured on the outside by modern fashed windows, retains much of its ancient form within; the architecture testifying that the structure is nearly as ancient as the days of Athelstan, when the Saxon modes prevailed. The chancel was repaired and greatly altered by Mr Smith, who came to this rectory in 1704. The altar rails form a square, thereby admitting many communicants to the service: The inclosure is six paces in length, and three wide steps ascend to the rail; the whole is neatly wainscotted, and the east end ornamented with tabernacle work. The east window is under a pointed arch, and formed of five lights; there are four south windows, and one to the north, having two lights each, under pointed arches. From the steps, the chancel on each side is double stalled with oak, in the cathedral form, ornamented with a carved entablature in open work. The entrance from the nave is under a lofty pointed arch, rising from a cluster of small round pilasters; closed with stalls and a handsome wood screen, suitable to the rest of the chancel. The whole length of the chancel within the rails and without is nineteen paces. The nave hath two regular ailes, formed by two rows of three round columns, about fourteen feet in height, uniform, with rolls for capitals, supporting circular arches; there are four upper windows on each side: The nave and ailes together are fifteen paces in width, and sixteen in length, regularly stalled with oak, and carved with fleur-de-lis. The pulpit is lofty, and well ornamented: Near it, in the end wall of the north aile, is a monument, having the effigy of a man in armour to the waist, with elevated hands, in high relief; belonging, as it is presumed, to one of the family of Middleton. The tower rises on short round pilasters, supporting pointed arches on the sides, and a lofty circular arch towards the nave. The west end of the nave is galleried. By the various modes of architecture which are seen in this edifice, it is evident, alterations have taken place at different periods, but that the old Saxon mode was the original one.
The rector of Weremouth for the time being is lord of the manor, and holds his courts, the customs and copyholds of which are of the same nature with the customs and copyholds of the bishop's manors. The history of this place is involved in the confusion before noted relative to Monkweremouth, and we are not able to trace the antiquity with any degree of accuracy, either in relation to the foundation of the church or its endowment. Camden was overtaken in the error of William of Malmsbury
Lat. edition, p. 576. "In hoc S. Petri. Monasterio Beda, &c. operam dedit, &c."
, and confounded Jarrow with Weremouth. In bishop Pudsey's time, as appears by the Boldon Book †, the manor of Weremouth was held by the bishop, and in Weremouth and Tunstall he had xxij villains and six
Wermouth & Tunstall.
In Wermouthe & Tunstall sunt xxij villani, & unusquis
que
tenet reddit & operatur sicut illi de Boldon.
Sex cotmanni tenent & operantur & reddunt sicut illi de Boldon.
Carpentarius qui senex est habet in vita sua xij acr. pro carucis & hercis faciend.
Faber xij acr. pro ferramentis carucarum & carbonem quem invenit.
Punder tenet & reddit sicut ille de Boldon.
Duae villae reddunt xx s. de cornagio & ij vaccas de metride.
Dominium est ac firmam cum instauramento xx bovat. & ij hercarior. & cc ovium.
Et reddit cum molendino xxli. piscariae reddunt vjli. burgum be Wermouth xx s.—
Boldon Buke.
Wermouth.
Terroe scaccarij.
Thomas Menvill tenet quand'm plac. vocat Hynden, pro applicatione navium & red. ij s.
Persona ecclesiae de Wermouth tenet quand'm pastur. vocatte Hough, &c.
Terroe domin.
Johannes Hobson tenet. &c. W s Grey, Stephanus Carter, &c.
Terroe bond.
Johannes Hobson tenet. &c. Et pro operib' xij d. Et xiij s. vjjd. quia plus in omnibus quam pro firma molendini ventritici cum tolnet cervis ad eosd. term. et pro scatpenys ad fest. pu
is. xjx d. & vj bz de scataven. & solebat operari sicut illi de Boldon, sicut contin. in quod'm libro vocato Boldon bok in toto xxxj s. ob. & vj bz aver.
Will. Gray & vij alii tenentes, &c.— Et quilibet dictorum bond solv. per annum pro portione sua pro terris in midilmor & smalmor, &c. in toto x s. x d.—
idem ten. bond redd. p' ann. in supplementum antiq. redditus eorum iiij s. x d.—Et quilibet, &c. ad fest natalis d'ni ij gallin. & ad sest. paschae x ova.—pro j vacca de metrich ad term. S. Martini tantum vj s.—pro cornage ad fest. S. Cuthberti in Septembr. x s.—pro wodlades ad fest. natal S. Johannis Baptistae viij s. viij d.—Commun. Turnum iij s. iiij d.—Tenentes bond de Wermouth, Tunstall, Reshop, & Birden, solvunt inter se pro mo
end. & bracinag. ibid.
Cotag.
Robertus Payn, tenet. &c. Et omnes isti cotag. redd. per ann. &c. de eisd cotag. ad festa natalis d'ni & pasch. viij gall. & xl ova.
Terroe scaccarii.
Johannes de Sunderland, &c. facit iiij portacion. in autumn, &c.
Tunstall
Terroe domin.
Walterus Luttyng tenet &c.
Terroe bond.
Will's Luttyng tenet &c. Et pro operibus xij d. et pro firma molend. ventritici ibid. cum tolnet cervis xiij s. viij d. q'ar' plus in omnibus q'ar. Et vj bz aven. de scat. ad fest. purif. b. Mariae. Et xix d. ad idem fest. pro scatpenys & solebat operari sicut illi de Boldon, sicut contin. Boldon Boke red. xxxj s. j d.
Will. Dobbie & x alii tenentes, &c. Praedicti tenentes solvunt inter se in supplimentum antiquae firmae & red. v s. ob. & quilibet bond praedict. solv. ad fest. purif. M. Mariae vj bz de aven. de scat. unde sum'a x q'eter iiij bz.—ij gallin. unde summa xxviij gallin.—x ova, unde summa xx / vij ova.—pro j vacca de metrich. inter se vj s.—tenent inter se commun. furnum ibid. & red. p' ann. iij d iiij d.—De xij s. vj d. ob. p' cornag. ad fest. S. Cuth. in Sep. & xxjx s. ij d. praedicti tenentes onerantur. supra infra sirm. bond.
Cotag.
Rob. Dixy, &c.
Terroe scaccarij.
W's Lutting & alii, &c.—
Hatfield's Survey.
cottagers, whose customs were similar to those of Boldon. There was a carpenter, also a smith, who held lands for their work; the two places paid xx s. cornage, and provided two milch cows for the houshold. The lordship was then farmed out, with the increase of certain live stock appertaining thereto of cattle and sheep, which, with the mill, produced 20l. a year: The fisheries gave 6l. and the borough of Weremouth xx s. In bishop Hatfield's Survey we find an account taken of the products of this manor, in which more minute particulars are noted. Thomas Menvylle then held a place called Hynden, for plying of ships, under the rent of 2 s. and the parson of Weremouth held a pasture called the Hough: The bondmen paid 19d. for scatpennys; for their privilege on Middlemoor and Littlemoor 10s. 10d. in the whole, and provided each two hens and ten eggs: For one milch cow they paid 6s. for cornage x s. woodlades 8 s. 8d. and for the common furnace 3s. 4d. The bond tenants of Weremouth, Tunstall, Ryhope, and Birden paid for their mill and brewferm. Among the rents of the bond tenants of Tunstall we find they paid 19d. for scatpennys
According to Rastal, is a common tallage.—39th Henry VIII. signifies a customary contribution laid upon all subjects according to their ability.—Hoveden, in the beginning of king Henry II. writes it
anlote
&
anscote.
—See Leg. Gul. Conq. cap. 125, the same words.—Hoveden, Ao 1088: Rex omne unjustum scottum interdixit.— Foret ballivus ad scotta pro reparatione & sustentatione walliarum, &c. assessa levandum. Ordinatio Marisci Romenciensis, p. 56.
Bishop weremouth parish.
Book of rates.
Value of lands.
 
£.
26
6
3
£.
4373
16
8
Grey's MSS.
 
Land tax at 4s.
County rates 6s. 8d.
Bishopweremouth
129
6
8
3
17
2
Vans
19
7
2
0
4
2
Sunderland
117
6
0
1
0
0
Burdon
16
4
0
0
13
1
Tunstall
11
8
0
0
10
3
Silk
worth
29
19
8
1
10
4
Ryhope
27
13
1
1
6
5
Registered estates:
—Burdon, Thomas Huntley 40l.—East Burdon, Mrs Mary Bowes of Newcastle 10l.— Sunderland, Nicholas Taylor 30l. Mrs Mary Bowes 5l. 1s. 10d.—
Mann's MSS.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population from 1660 to 1679
2613
453
1930
from 1760 to 1779
2072
750
2374
Increase
 
297
444
Decrease
541
 
 
Burials in the last year 131.—Computed number of inhabitants 3930.
Bishop's rents 43l. 15s. 4d.—Burdon 11l. 8s.—Ryhope, 42l. 12s. 2d.—Tunstall 16l.—Sunderland 12l.— Fishings 5l.
, and in lot oats, ten quarters and four bushels, twenty-eight hens, seven score eggs, 6s. for a milch cow, for the common furnace 3 s. 4d. and 12 s. 6 d. for cornage.
We have observed that
the borough of Weremouth
is noted in the Boldon Book: Bishop Pudsey, in the latter end of the reign of Henry II. or in the beginning of Richard I. granted a charter of privileges to his burgesses of Weremue
Reg. Antiq. Dec. & Cap. Dun. vol. ii. p. 353. Carta recentiff. p. 171.
Erectio burgi de Weremue. "Hug. dei gratia Dunelm. epus priori archidiaconis baronibus & omnibus hominibus totius episcopatus sui Francis & Anglis salutem. Sciatis nos concessisse et praesenti carta confirmasse burgensibus nostris de Weremue liberas consuetudinibus in burgo suo secundum consuetudinem burgensium de Novo Castello, &c. Hiis testibus g priore. B. archid. Symon Camer, M'ro Rico. de Coldingeh. M'ro S. Lincoln, Alex. de Hilton. Fo. 354, Bib. Cotton. Julius, 7047. Mr Ritson.
. There is another grant made by him, 1154,
De burgo de Weremue, alias Weremouth, modo Sunderland juxta mare
Reg. 11 Dec. & Cap. 164.
; and by the charter of bishop Morton to Sunderland, it appears that king Henry III. granted certain privileges to the new borough of Weremouth.
At the Pans, observed in the book of rates, is an ancient seat house of the Lambton family
Assignatio seu confirmatio stalli situat. infra navem eccle
iae paro'ial de Weremouth epi. &c.
Mr Frevile Lambton for twenty-five or thirty years last past hath been owner in his own right, of an ancient seat house situated in a street called Bishopwearmouth pans, at the west end of the town of Sunderland near the Sea, within the parish of Bishopwearmouth, and all that time was and is owner in his own right, of divers other houses and sundry parcels of land, situated in the parish of Bishopwearmouth. The said seat house and houses and parcels of land are copyhold, and all of them descended to the said Mr Frev. Lambton, by the death of his father Capt. Thomas Lambton, of South-Biddick, in the county of Durham, who died Ao 1661. Sir William Lambton, knight, of Lambton hall, was father of Capt. Thomas Lambton, and at the time of his death, which happened Ao 1644, and for twenty or thirty years and above, was owner of the abovenamed seat-house, &c. which descended to Capt. Thomas Lambton. Sir William Lambton and Captain Lambton usually had a steward who lived in the said seat house, &c. J. Brookbank, LL. D. etc. Frevile Lambton de Hardwick, arm'o confirmat. eund. stallum seu sedile. In cujus, &c.—
Randal's MSS.
.
SUNDERLAND
The Parish of
SUNDERLAND.
It hath been asserted by various writers, that Sunderland, either was so united with Weremouth, or so insignificant in Camden's time, as caused him not to mention it. Leland, in his Itinerary, takes no note of it. It is most probable the general name of Weremouth prevailed so much as occasioned Sunderland to escape the learned writers observation, especially as in the charter granted by bishop Pudsey, the borough had the name of Weremouth.
That charter is addressed, among other personages, as priors, archdeacons, &c. to the bishop's barons, and grants, That the burgesses of Weremouth should enjoy the like liberties and free-customs, as the burgesses of Newcastle: That all pleas arising within the borough, except those of the crown, should be determined there. Disputes between those plying with ships at that port, and merchants to whom the cargoes were sold, to be determined within the time of the third influx of the tide, that navigation might not be retarded: Merchandize brought by sea to be landed before sale, except salt and herrings. A year and a day's possession of lands, &c. without claim, the claimant being within the realm, and not under age, a sufficient quietus. A burgess's son maintained by his father at bed and board, entitled to the like privileges as the father. A villain remaining and holding lands or tenements in the borough for a year and a day without interruption, to have the same franchise as a burgess. A burgess might sell his lands and go where he pleased, if no claim was subsisting against him. If a burgess was complained against, in a matter where battle ought to be waged, by a villain, he was to make defence by thirty-six men, unless the value in suit was one hundred pounds, or the crime imputed to him ought to be tried by battle. No burgess was compelled to fight against a villain unless he had forfeited his franchise. There was not to be within the borough
blodwite, merchete, heriet,
or
blood drawing.
The reve or head-borough was to look after forfeitures touching bread and beer. A burgess might bring in his corn from the country when he pleased, except at a time of prohibition or embargo. Whatever a burgess bought he might sell without licence of the lord or consent of his heir. Every burgess had liberty to buy timber and sire wood equally with the burgesses of Durham. They should enjoy their common pasture as was originally granted to them, and which the bishop had caused to be perambulated. Customs of fish were reserved to the bishop, as Brus had from his people of Hartlepool.
The town of Sunderland stands on a point of land, having a steep descent to the river, which affords a convenient and safe haven for shipping. It was not anciently a port of note, yet not totally unfrequented; for in the preceding charter a provision is contained touching ships plying there: Yet we cannot form any great estimate of this port, when we observe in Hatfield's Survey, that John Hedworth had an ancient right of drawing a net in the very haven
Sunderland.
Sunderland est ad firmam & reddit c s.
Rogerus de Andri reddit pro stagno molendini firmato super terr. de Sunderland j marc.—
Boldon Buke.
Sunderland.
Thomas Menvill tenet burgum de Sunderland cum libera redd. burg. ibid. qui valet per ann. xxxij s. viij d. & cum piscar. in aqua de Were una cum curia burgi tolnet. & stallag. cum viij yares d'ni episcopi & cum viij s. de firma prioris Dunelm. pro j yara voc. Ebyare; & cum viij s. de red. Johannis Hedworth pro j ya
a vocat ouns yare et cum tract. unius retis in portu dicti burgi, & soleb. reddere per ann. xxli. modo
ed. vjli.
Johannes Hedworth tenet j mes. cum gardino xij d. j cotag ij s vj d.—Aliud. cotag. ij s. vj d.
Johannes Hobson, &c. iij s. iiij d.— quond'm vast in Wermouth ij d.
Terrae vast.
Et est ibid. quaedam plac. quond'm Ricardi Wermouth ad exitum villae ibid. quond'm de dominic. d'ni ibid. contin. dimid. acr. & solebat reddere per ann ij s. modo vast. & extra tenur.
Hatfield's Survey.
Jarrow Slaka jacet infra com. pal. Dun. & pars orientalis ejus p'tinct ad manerio de Wessot & altera pars inde ad monasteriu. de Jarrow, &c.
Will'us de Carilepho ep'us temp. Will'i Conq. consensu & mandato P. P. Gregorij 7 &
's pred. concessit per cartam suam eccl'ae S'ti Cuthberti maneria & villas de Jarrow, Preston, West
e. &c.
Vide cartam Hugonis Pudsey, ep'i p' erigend. burg. de Weremue nunc Sunderland in qua p'viso facta est p' navib's ib'm negocian. reservand. custum. piscium. 2 reg. d. & cha. 164.
Vide seperales rot'los p' quos apparet ep'm Dun. he're burgum de Sunderland & redditu. p' piscariis quod prior Dum. ib'm h'uit. Quodq. epus. Dun. locum ib'm h'uit in temp. antiquo p' adventu seu appulsu navium
th certo reddit. Annis s. 1183, 1345, 1418, & aliis rot'lis sine datu.
Tho. Hatfield epus 1358, dimisit Ri'ca de Hetheworth burgum de Sund. cum piscariis maneria & Wolton
are o'iu p'sicua ad d'em burgum p'tin. p' 20 an. sub red. 20l. 2 reg. d. & ch. 158.
Vide sep'ales rot'los computor qui monstrant epos Dun. habere passagia & les ferryboates apud Sund. Et computa p' faciendo novos batellos seu eimbos allocat. 1345, 1406, 1457, 1494, 1502, & 1508.
Vide evidencias prioris Dun. q'd passagia battelli de Sund. est p' firmariu. levat absque dimissione epi Dun. & injuriose sup' priorem usurpat. nullo redditu inde d'no ep'o solut. seu priori Dun. 1 Cart. 318.—Evidenc. p' passagio int. Monkweremouth & Sunderland, 4 Cart. 299.
Duae commissiones epi emanat. e canc. Dun. p' Langley, ep'm ad inquirend de nave fract. & merchandiz. restituend. Rot. cl. C. No 27.
Scil't p' Neville ep'm 1438. Rot. cl. M. 50, 51.
Concessio 1438 p' Nevil ep'm d'no Lumley de Wreco maris infra com. Dun. exceptis piscibus regal.
Et d'cus epus duas concessit licentias p' cariand carbon. ad & a stationib's seu wharfis epi sup' aquam de Tyne p' mare seu p' terram. 30 H. 6.
Et p' edificand. wharfas & stationes ib'm p' vendendo carb. sup' aquam ill. reservant. custumas epi. Rot. cl. A. No 87, M. No 59.
D'n's rex Ed. 4. dimisit Rob'tus Bertram burga. de Sund. cum o'ib's proficias ad inde spectan. Et passag. ultra aquam de Were. Et piscarias aquae pred. He'nd durante vac. sedis Dun. & quamdiu temporalitates manerent in manib's regis red. 6l. ann. ad sc'em Dun. Et dc'us rex p'videre cymbam p' d'co passag. Rot. cl. Laur. epi. M M. No 56.
P'r & conv. Dun. 3 Ed. 4. concess. d'
o R. Bertram p' 30 ann. porco'nem fundi estimat esse tres partes in campo de Jarrow juxta locum voc Hevynghouse extra fluxum aquae ib'm unacum terre & fund. infra fluxum ejusdem aquae a dc'a porc'one terrae usq. ad maximu. aquae refluxum directe se extende juxta visum & p'ambulacon Thomae Ward mag'ri sive custodis cellae de Jarrrow suis certis finibus.
Burgus de Sund. conces. p' copiam rot'lor. cur. Rad'o Bowes mil. temp. Bainbrig & k. Hen. 7.
Concessio burgi pred. et ferryboat seu passag. ultra aquam de Weare cum piscariis de Sund. p' cartam poll Rad'o Bowes ar. & sequilis suis sc'd'm cons. cur. halmot in tam amplu. modo & forma p'ut Rad'us Bowes mil. p' annis dc'i Rad'i ea tenuit. sub red. 4l. 18 Oct. 22 Eliz. 1590. Rot. cl. p. m. Barnes, 10, 11.
Est une ancient burrough consistant de 12 capital burgesses vocat burgesses & 12 inferior burgesses, voc. stallengers, & chescun freeman inhabitant ascun. messuages ad comon pur 2 chevalles et pur 4 vaches & chescun stallinger pur un vach. & que la fem. de chescun freeman on stallinger inhabitant ou mesme le common apres le mort leur barons. Levins, pt 2, 252. Hinks versus Clerk, les trove en sp'ial verdict.
De vice admirallis epor. Dun. de Sunderland.
Barnes.
Will. Whitehead vice adm. & ballivus de Sund. p' vita sub compo inde reddend. annuatim ad audit. epi. 20l.
Cosyn.
Joh'es Tempest arm. vice adm. com. pal. & locum tenens epi official princip. & judex cur, vice adm. q'mdiu bene gesserit 1661. Rot. cl. A. No 17.
Ric'us Mathew gen. judex cur. vice admiralitat. quamdiu bene gesserit. Rot. cl. No 18.
Walterus Ettrick, gen. registarius & scribarius cur. pred. Rot. cl. No 19.
De ballivis epor. Dun. burgi sui de Sunderland.
Baoth.
Rad'us Bowes ar. consang. epi p' vita. sub feod. p' inde debit solvend. p' firmar. burgi pred.— Rot. cl.
Tunstall.
Tho Smith bal. villae & burgi de Sund. & collector reddit. & firmar. ib'm p' vita cum feodo.— Lib. pat. in audit. offic.
Barnes.
Will. Whitehead bal. & vice adm. p' vita.
Vide in Rot. Audit.
temp. Morton ep.
ubi computatur quolibet anno p' no'em major & burgij. Bal. de Sund. juxta mare.
Sene'lli epor. Dun. sive cl'ici cur. burg. de Sunderland.
James.
Joh'es Richardson gen. sen'lus sive cl'icus cur. quar'cunq. infra burgum de Sund. quandiu placucrit. Rot. cl. 1, No 103.
Nota presentat. fuit in cur. burgi de Sund. 26 Sep. 1609, p' regalitatibus wre'cas & ancorag. ib'm.
De ancoragio.
Anchoragium de Sunderland concess. fuit Ev. Williams p' Tobiam ep'm p' l'ras suas pat. 4 k. Ja. 1.
N. B. Magister domus S'ti Trinitatis apud Novum Castrum obtinuisset h'as paten. R's esse concessas eidem Evans de ancoragio de Sund. Sed eos allocare recusavit d'cus epus.
De ballivis aquaticis epor. Dun. de Sunderland.
James.
Joh'es Rand. dur. bene plito. feod. 1l. 6s. 8d. Rot. cl.
Et ad colligend. p' epo omnia debita & evacuand (ballast) & p' ancorag. beconag. rivage & al. custom. feod. 1l. 6s. 8d.
C
syn.
Commissio emanat no'ie r's temp. Car. 2. direct. quibusd. com'er p' reformac'one fraudum & abusun. r'one false & incerte mensurac'onis usitat. in ordac'one carinar. cum carbonibus in portu de Sunderland. Test. Joh'e ep's d. 7 Oct. 15 Car. 2. Rot. cl. A. No 35.—
Mickleton's MSS.
. Much evidence appears of the bishops of Durham having the borough, and leasing out the rights and privileges of it; and in right of their regalia they leased out the passage of the river and ferry-boats
Compotum auditor. episc. & cancellar. ejus d' redditibus burgi & passagii trans rivum per ferryboat ibid. piscar. ibid. & pro applicatione navium ibid. ac pro batellis & cymbis annis 1 Hen. 2.—19 Ed. 3.—7 Hen. 4.—5 Hen. 5.—36 Hen. 6.—17, 18, 24 Hen. 7.—Registro 2 d. &c. 15. 32 Edw. 3. Tho. Hatfield episc. dimisit Rich. de Hethworth burgum d' Sunderland cum piscariis & Wolton yare ibidem pro 20 an. red. 20s. p' an. episcopo.—Rot. M. M. L. Booth ep. No 56, 2 Edw. 4. Dom. rex Edw. 4. sede episc. Dun. tunc vacante, jure ecclesiae Dunelm. dimisit Roberto Bertram burgum d' Sunderland juxta mar
, ac passagium trans aquam ibidem & piscar. habend. durante vacatione episc. reddendo 6, ad scacc. Dunelm. & rex imbuit cymbam.—
Spearman's Inq. p.
24.
22 Hen. 7. Chris. Bainbrigg episc. Dunelm. per copiam 20 hul. cur. halmot. dimisit Radulpho Bowes militi, burgum de Sunderland praed. &c. red. 6l. p' ann.
Rot. A. Matt. ep. No 11. Vide deed poll 18 Oct. 32 Eliz. 1590. Mattheus Hutton episc. Dun. dimisit Radulpho Bowes armig. burgum, passagium trans aquam, piscar ibidem per redditum 4l. ultra finem solutum, & inveniendam cymbam, exceptis mercemoniis. The bishops of Durham successively ever since have frequently renewed these leases of the borough, ferryboat, passage, anchorage, beaconage, wharfage, plankage, meetage, and tolls of Sunderland port and market and fairs, and they are now in two leases, (Ao 1729) to wit, the borough, with the courts, markets, fairs, tolls, anchorage, beaconage, &c. to William Lambton,
esq
and the ferryboat passage, the metage, and tolls of herbs, fruit, and roots, to Walter Ettricke,
esq
for twenty-one years.—
Ibid. p.
25.
The lease in 1661 to Walter Ettricke, was of all those his (the bishop's) ferryboats of Sunderland, in the county of Durham, and the passage over the water, port, or river of Sunderland, with free egress, regress, and landing over the said water, for all carriages and passengers over both sides of the said water; and also all tolls due and payable for all goods and commodities to be sold or vended in the said borough of Sunderland; and likewise the profits and duties upon salt, fruit, roots, victuals, and other merchandizes, sold by any manner of metage imported to the port or haven of Sunderland, except the metage of salt, &c. imported there for the bishop's use. Register 7, fo. 28—18 Feb. 1668—20 Oct. 1679—31 Dec. 1688—1 Feb. 1694—The like to Mr Ettricke, Reg. 8, fo. 112—13 May, 1702—13 Sep. 1710—
Feb. 1721, to Anthony Ettricke— Reg. 9, fo. 486.—Do 11, fo. 205.—3d Feb. 1728—3 Feb. 1735—3 Feb. 1749—14 Feb. 1764, to William Ettricke.—Reg. 12. fo. 70, 527.—Reg. 15, fo. 482.—Reg. 18, fo. 282.
. We do not find any grants of anchorage and beaconage till the time of bishop Tunstall
Cuthbertus Tunstal episc. Dunelm. dimisit—Smith, proficua d'anchorage & beaconage.—Tobias Matthew episc. Dunelm. dimisit Evans Williams le anchorage & beaconage, &c. Rot. Halm. an. 4 Jac. 1. 1606.—
Spearman's Inq. p.
25.
, so that it is natural to conjecture in his episcopacy, the port was growing into importance. Commissions of conservatorship of the river Were, &c. were granted so early as bishop Skirlaw's time, and were repeated by his successors
Com. Walt. ep. 10 Ap. 2 pont. sui & an. 13 Rich. 2. 1390, ad supervidend. aquam de Weare & gurgites ibidem excessivos reducend. per juratres, &c. Rot Sirlaw, No 35, dorso.—Rot. B. Tho. Langley, ep. No 48, Ao 1420—Rot. E. No 41, Ao 19 Pont.—Ibid. No 3, Ao 24 pont. Rot. C. No 63, 9 May, 31 pont. — Similis commissio per Robertum Neville ep. pro aquis de Weare & Teas, &c. bis. Rot A. No 51, & No 84.—Sim. com. per Laur. Booth ep. pro aquis de Tease, Skerne, Gawnles, Weare, Tyne, & Darwent, &c. sur. stat. d' Westm. 2 & 3 Rich. 2. Rot. A. No 2, 1468.—Ch. Bainbrigg ep. No 67, Rot. B. Ao 1507, pat. Johanni Racket pro vita sua of the conservatorship of all the bishop's rivers of Tease, Weare, Tyne, &c. within his bishopric, and for preserving salmon and fry of fish according to the law and custom of England, and the bishop's royal liberties of Durham.—
Spearman's Inq. p.
27,
&c. &c.
. Commissions of sewers issued from the time of king Charles I.
5 Ap. 4 Car. 1. Rot. 2. Sede vacante post mortem Rich. Neille ep. No 34.—Rot. 3, Tho. Morton, ep. No 21, 15 k. Cha. 1.—
Ibid.
; and in the reign of king Charles II. commissions issued for measuring the keels or lighters, and coal-boats of Sunderland port
7 Oct. 15 Car. 2, 1663. Rot. A. Joh. Cosin, ep. No 35.—
Ibid.
. In bishop Langley's time there were commissions to enquire after the
lmon fishery, and the same were repeated by his successors; also commissions touching yares and obstructions in the rivers
3 commissions per Tho. Langley ep i'd inquirend. super defect. piscium aquarum, i. e. d' salmonibus non capiend in tempore juxta statut. de Westm. 2 & 3.—Similis com. p' Neville ep. ac Booth ep. Rot. A. 1. Rot. A. 50, 88, Rot. X. 32, Rot. M. 23, Rot. E. No 16, ibid. No 2, Rot. C. No 62, Rot. B. Bainbrig ep. ut sup.—Breve Rob. Neville ep. vicecomiti Dun. ad praemuniend. vel scire faciend. separal. personis infra nominat. ad diminuand. seu amovend separal. yaras erect. in aqua de Weare contra statut. ante festum S. Bartolomaei apost. prox. sub paena 100 mercar. epis. solvend. juxta statut. super inquisition. capt. coram Tho. Lomley militi & sociis suis, justiciar. episc. per commission. suam ad supervidend. aquam praed. viz. versus Rob. Jackson pro yaris vocat marle yare & chestan yare, versus Johan. Wessyngton priorem Dunelm. pro drilad yare, eb yare, versus Johan. Hedworth pro Owens yare, versus Lomley chivilier pro outlaw yare, versus Williel Bowes militem pro Bowden & Biddicke yares, versus Robert. Hilton militem pro Weydiles yare & Synden yare, quas cum pilis palis & sep'ibus nimis excessive in profundior. partibus aquae praed. in filo ejus. aquae posuit, lavaverunt & injuste construxerunt, per quas filus aquae pred. totalit. est obstruct; ita quod homines commune passagium ibidem cum navibus, naviculis battellis & keeles habere:—Nec salmones nec salmoniculi per filum aquae praed. transire non possunt, prout ante haec tempora transire solebant contra formam statut. ad nostri grave dampn. & totius communitat. regiae nostrae libertatis Dunelm. depauperationem manifestam. Rot. B. Neville, No 87, 1440.—
Ibid.
. Royal fish and wreck of the sea were frequent subjects of enquiry by commission, and will be noted in the respective places where the facts arose. Bishop Barnes and his successors appointed a water bailiff of the port of Sunderland; and sundry prelates by patent appointed a vice-admiral and judges of their court of admiralty
Ra. Bowes was vice admiral under the bishop in the reign of queen Elizabeth.—
Ibid.
6th March, Ao 20 Eliz. Vide decree canc. Dunelm. judge Hutton attorn. episc. &c. & Rob. Woodrington M. D. C. 2 Car. 1. Richard Barnes bishop, per literas patentes suas constituit Will. Whitehead vice admiral suum, & ballivum de Sunderland, sub comp. annuatim ad auditum episc. qui vixit usq. an. 2 Jacobi primi regis.—
Ibid.
Rot. 1, W. James ep. No 118, Ao 1609, vide official. auditor. episc. Bishop James by patent made John Rand his water bailiff of Sunderland port, and to collect the ballast dues, anchorage, beaconage, rivage, and other customs and profits due from ships trading there—
Ibid.
1626, Richard Bartlet.—1628, Nich. Whitfield.—16 Nov. 1633, bishop Morton leased to Sir Wm Bellasses, knight, and others, in trust for the use of the city of Durham.—1638, Mich. Crake, a servant to the king, first by his majesty's patent, afterwards, in the vacancy of a lord high admiral, by lease, and after that by the earl of Northumberland, lord high admiral.—Bishop Morton always opposed him.—1642, Crake obtained an order of the commons of parliament, to prohibit the clearing of ships without his fees and warrant.—1643, the bishop's lessees obtained another order, revoking that to Crake, and quieting the lessees in the possession until it should be determined by law, which Crake did not prosecute at law, and so the lessees continued the possession till the lease expired during the commonwealth.—9 Nov. 1649, Col. Geo. Fenwick purchased of the usurper's trustees for sale of bishops lands, &c. the reversion for 285l. 9s. 6d. and enjoyed it till the restoration, when bishop Cosin granted a new lease. Crake, then living, revived his claim, and the matter was referred by the duke of York, then lord high admiral, to Dr John Ecton, then judge of the admiralty of England, who, 1st July, 1663, reported the bishop's claim and right to be good, and therein cited divers of the ancient charters and records before noted, to ground and warrant his report, which was allowed.—20 July, 1663, Crake being summoned and not shewing cause. Rot. A. Cosin, No 17, 1661, bishop Cosin, by letters patent, made John Tempest,
esq
his vice admiral, quamdiu se bene gesseret.—Ibid. No 18, by like patent he made Rich. Matthew, gent. judge of his court of admiralty.—No 19, he also then made Walter Ettricke, gent. by patent, register of that court; afterwards William Blakiston,
esq
Charles Montague,
esq
and William Lambton,
esq
were successively vice admirals by patent from the bishop.—Sir Richard Lloyd, knt. and Henry Lambton,
esq
were successively judges of the court of admiralty. The high court of admiralty hath frequently since the restoration, admitted of appeals from the bishop's court of admiralty at Sunderland. 16 Dec. 1662, bishop Cosin granted a new lease to Mr Robert Adamson of the borough and port of Sunderland, and of the anchorage, beaconage, wharfage, ballast shores, &c. there, for 21 years: Rent 10l.—15 Oct. 1676, the lease was surrendered, and a new lease was granted by bishop Crewe to Edward Arden,
esq
Mr Geo. Forster, and the said Adamson, for twenty-one years at the like rent.—15 July, 1682, renewed by lord Crewe to Mr Geo. French.—Since renewed to William Richardson, William or Henry Lambton,
esq.
—
Ibid.
Rand's patent granted him the ancient see of 26s. 8d. yearly, with all other sees and duties to the office of water bailiff belonging, in as ample manner as any water bailiff in any port or river in the north parts of this realm lawfully enjoyed: And thereby impowers him (inter alia) to collect, demand, and receive for the bishop's use, all such free customs or usages as to the said bishop in this port was due, and as in other ports for the like, and conveyance away of the ballast, and preservation of the said river was, ought, or might be due or appertaining; and also to take to the bishop's use all rial fish, wrecks of the sea, customs, usages, and forfeitures whatsoever, which should thereafter happen to become due to the bishop within the said port or river or limits thereof, upon any occasion or accident whatever; for which he was to render an account yearly to the bishop in his exchequer at Durham. Since Whitfield's time the office of water bailiff hath been held by leases granted by the bishops along with the borough of Sunderland. Mr French's lease specifies "All that his (the bishop's) borough and town of Sunderland, &c. with all borough courts, perquisites of courts, and borough rents and other free rents duties, customs, and profits belonging to the said borough: And all that port and creek of Sunderland extending itself from the bar and low water mark of the sea unto the new bridge nigh Lumley park; together with the office of water bailiff of and within the said port, creek, and haven, and all anchorage and beaconage, plankage, wharfage, ballast shores, groundage, moorage, cranage, pickage, stallage, and poundage, with all privileges, liberties, conveniencies, and commodities incident thereto: And all and every the sum and sums of money, duties, benefits, and profits arising, or any ways growing due to the bishop or any of his successors, for or in respect of any ship, vessel, or boat coming into or going out of or anyways arriving, anchoring, mooring, loading or unloading at or in the port, creek, and haven of Sunderland aforesaid, or any part thereof, and the benefits, profits, commodities, advantages and appurtenances whatsoever thereunto belonging, except for such ships as should arrive there for the bishop's own use." The lease hath been renewed to the present time.—Register 8, fo. 560—Reg. 9, fo. 106, 423—Reg. 10, fo. 219—Reg. 11, fo 129, 313—Reg. 12, fo. 276, 525—Reg. 13, fo. 287—Reg. 14, fo. 246—Reg. 15, fo. 476—Reg. 16, fo. 324.
We are possessed of various proceedings in the admiralty court, but they are too voluminous to be inserted.
In dorso Rotul. Hutton ep. in canc. Dun. A. No 11.
Oct. 22, 32d Eliz. R. Bowes arm. cepit de d'no epo totum burgum de Sunderland juxta mare, in tam amplis modo & firma prout Ra. Bowes mil. proavus Ra. Bowes, arm. nup' habuit, &c. Iliis testibus Rob. Tailboy arm. Chr. Maire & aliis.
Ibid. No 10. The bishop by letter of attorney, authorises his good friend Rob. Tailboys, to grant to Ra. Bowes by copy of court roll, all the borough of Sunderland, &c.—
Randal's MSS.
19th bishop Neville. Ra. Bowes's grant for life—
Rudd's MSS.
Licence from bishop Bainbrigg to John Hedworth, to alien lands in Sunderland.—
Ibid.
John de Neville chiv. d. s. of 10 burg, held by
ealty and suit at the borough court. Ao 1 Skirlaw, inq. p. m.—And John de Hedworth died seised of 12 acres of land, held in burgagio
s. rent and landmail.
. The bishops also granted licences for building wharfs or staiths for vending coals.
From all the records referred to it will appear, that it was not till after the statute of Henry VIII. by which the palatine jurisdiction was restrained and mutilated, Sunderland became a place of considerable note, and had its officers of distinction and police: Hartlepool, whilst the bishop of Durham had naval armaments, was the
of the province, where the bishop had his officers, and received the fees, dues, and duties which in other ports were paid to the king.
Bishop Morton, desirous of encouraging the trade of Sunderland, in the year 1634, granted a charter of incorporation to the burgesses and inhabitants, by the title of mayor, twelve aldermen, and commonalty of the borough of Sunderland
Reg. Hunt. penes dec. & cap. Dun.
. The charter states, that Sunderland had beyond the memory of man been an ancient borough, known by the name of the new borough of Weremouth, containing in itself a certain part, where ships had plyed, bringing and carrying merchandize, as well to and from foreign parts, as from other ports of this kingdom: The articles of exportation therein specified are sea coals, grind-stones, rub-stones, and whet-stones. It also states, that the trade was then greatly increased by the multitude of ships resorting thither; and that the borough anciently enjoyed divers liberties and free customs, as well by prescription as by virtue of sundry charters from the bishops of Durham, confirmed to them by the crown; which from defect in form proved insufficient for the support of the ancient liberties, privileges, and free customs of the borough, or to that effect. This charter granted the market and fairs, and appointed the mayor for the time being clerk of the market.
For reasons not pointed out to us, this charter was suffered to expire; perhaps the miseries of those times, and the dreadful convulsions of the state, caused it to be neglected. But though the members of the incorporation did not long preserve their jurisdiction, the privileges granted to the inhabitants were assumed, and maintained in several suits at law, particularly touching the herbage of the town-moor, with the soil thereof: This common consists of about seventy or eighty acres only. In the case of Hicks versus Clerk, Lev. 2d part. p. 252, the custom is stated, that
Sunderland is an ancient borough, consisting of twelve capital burgesses, called burgesses, and twelve inferior burgesses, called stallingers, and that each freeman occupying a house had commonage for two horses and four cows, and each stallinger for one cow; and that the widow of a freeman or stallinger, being an inhabitant, had the like commonage after the husband's death.
Upon error the judgment establishing this custom was affirmed
See a bill brought in the court of exchequer in the year 1729 or thereabouts, by Sir William Middleton and William Etterick of Barnes, against William Etterick of Silksworth, and some other people of Sunderland, and the depositions in the cause, especially the deposition of the defendant William Etterick; which will shew a right in the bishop of Durham to Sunderland town-moor, and that the freemen and stallingers are only entitled to the herbage.—
Gyll's MSS.
1776, June 17. In the court of exchequer, the long contested cause between Benjamin Hodgkin, plaintiff, and the corporation of freemen and stallingers, and other defendants, touching the right of the soil of the town-moor of Sunderland, was finally determined in favour of the corporation; and the plaintiff's bill, after a full hearing, was dismissed upon the merits, with costs.
The tides in Were.
 
F.
I.
 
F.
I.
Spring tides generally flow in the harbour the 1st hour
2
6
ebb
0
9
2d hour
3
6
 
1
3
3d hour
3
6
 
1
6
4th hour
2
6
 
2
6
5th hour
 
 
 
2
6
6th hour
 
 
 
1
6
7th hour
 
 
 
1
3
8th hour
 
 
 
 
9
Discount of water from new bridge to the bar 23 feet 8 inches and an 8th part of an inch.—From new bridge to Allan's s
aiths is two miles and a half, and the discount of the water is 7 feet 4 inches. —The stell is about 6
0 yards in length, about 50 yards in breadth, and in depth 2 feet, and the discount there of the water is 2 feet 2 inches.
.
King Charles II. in the first year of his reign, directed his commission to the mayor and four senior aldermen of Sunderland, and to Walter Ettrick,
esq
to administer the oaths of supremacy and obedience to the inhabitants, &c. there
This record was communicated by Mr George Pearson, with a remark that it proves the burgesses accepted bishop Morton's charter, and that it also operates as a legal recognition of the grant of incorporation made by the bishop.
. He also, in the twentieth year of his reign, granted his letters patent to Edward Andrew,
esq
to build a pier or piers, with a light-house or light-houses, and to cleanse the harbour of Sunderland, with power to raise contributions for effecting those works: And the same letters patent forbid
all masters and commanders of ships or other vessels, to cast ballast out of their ships or vessels within six fathom water, within the space and limits of one mile to the southwards, and one mile to the northwards of the mouth or entrance of the harbour; willing and commanding all officers and ministers of our courts of admiralty, and vice-admiralty, to take especial cognizance thereof, and severely punish such as shall offend
The letters patent state, that
Whereas we are informed by the humble petition of our well beloved subjects the inhabitants of the borough and port of Sunderland near the Sea, upon the river of Weere, in the county palatine of Durham, that the harbour and river there being very commodiously situate for the shiping of vast quantities of sea coles, plentifully gotten and wrought there for supply of all our subjects of our realm of England who can fetch the same, as also of foreign parts, is of late very much gorged, stopped up, and choaked, and by the many sholes, sand beds, and much breach and rubbish daily increasing in the same, is almost rendered innavigable, so as the said harbour and river, which in late years did receive and secure 400 sayle of shipps at one time, loaden with coals and other goods, cannot now receive any ship of considerable burthen without hazard; but the ship masters, merchants, and cole owners are constrained in part to load such ships exporting coles, and unload such ships importing other goods, at sea, near the mouth of the said harbour, to the prejudice of our revenue of the customs, and the great perill and danger of such ships and goods: And those ships which are of small draught of water and may go into the said harbour, do lye long there for their loadings, by reason of the said shoals and sand beds in the said river obstructing the bringing down of coles and other goods for their loadings, and being so loaden do wait long for spring tydes and winds to carry them to sea, which much enhanceth the price of coles in many parts of our realme, and is of hindrance to the maritime commerce: And that it would be very expedient and necessary, and also greatly advantagious and beneficial, not onely to us, our heirs and successors in the advancement of our revenue of the customs, and to our merchants and seafaring men, in the encouragement of trade and increase of shipping and navigation, but in the setting up of a convenient fishing trade there, if the harbour and river belonging to the port of Sunderland aforesaid were cleansed,
&c.
.
The regal jurisdiction of the bishop of Durham being in many instances removed by the statute of Henry VIII. the conservatorship of the river Were and port of Sunderland was vested in the powers of the crown, and the necessary revival of that authority became daily obvious; so that an act of parliament was applied for and obtained in the 3d year of k. George I. for the preservation and improvement of the river Were and port and haven of Sunderland, and commissioners were appointed for twenty-one years
There is a power to charge any sum not exceeding 3 d. a chaldron on the coal owner, and 1 d. on the fitters.—In the act of 1726 there is power to borrow money on the credit of those duties.—By an act passed in the 32d of George II. the duties were continued for a further term of 21 years, and were afterwards made perpetual.—By an act 1st queen Anne, a farthing a chaldron was granted on all coals shipped at Sunderland, in support of the piers of Whitby, and by several subsequent laws, that impost was continued, and an additional farthing granted to continue to June 1, 1781.—V. coal owners case, 1766, on petition to parliament.
. In the thirteenth year of the same reign another act was obtained, entituled,
An act for the more effectual preservation and improvement of the river Were and port and haven of Sunderland,
&c. by which additional powers were granted to the commissioners. In the twentieth year of George II. another act was obtained and commissioners appointed, who were impowered to survey the river so far as to a place called New bridge, (being Chester new bridge) to which place they might make it navigable; and also the port, haven, and harbour of Sunderland, as the same extends from the promontory or point called Souter Point, about two miles from Sunderland bar towards the north-east, and so into the sea to five fathom at low water, and from thence in a supposed direct line, till it fall opposite to that land called Ryhope Dean, about two miles towards the south. By subsequent laws the powers of the commissioners have been continued.
In 1719, Sunderland being increased so greatly in population, that it was impossible for the inhabitants to be received to the offices of the church at Weremouth, an act of parliament was obtained for making the town and township of Sunderland a distinct parish from the parish of Bishopweremouth; in the preamble of which it is stated, that Sunderland contained six thousand souls and upwards, and that a beautiful church had been erected, with a vestry-room, and a dwelling-house for a minister or rector to live in, upon a parcel of ground, part of one of the common fields of Sunderland, and within the manor and borough of Sunderland, called the Intack, and had inclosed or doled out a parcel of ground adjoining thereto for a cemetery or church-yard. By this act Sunderland was made a rectory, the patronage of which should for ever appertain to the bishop of Durham. A vestry or association of inhabitants was instituted by this act, consisting of twenty-four persons having freehold estates of the yearly value of 10l. to be chosen by the parishioners, and to continue in office three years, and so a succession to be chosen every three years, in which vestry-men was vested a power to make ordinances and by-laws, for the regulation of the new parish, to be ratified by two justices, to appoint a scavenger, and to assess on estates, real and personal, and stock in trade, a sufficient sum for the purposes therein mentioned, and particularly for paying to the rector a yearly stipend of eighty pounds, and to the clerk ten pounds, and a competent sum to the scavenger, to be levied by warrant from two or more justices of the peace. The rectory to be discharged of first-fruits, tenths, procurations, and synodals; but the tithes of fish, and of corn and hay growing within the parish, were reserved for the rectory of Bishopweremouth, the new rectory taking only Easter reckonings, surplice fees, and other small dues.
The trade of Sunderland is very considerable: In the Description of England and Wales, page 265
Also England Displayed, published by Russell and Owen, 1769.
, it is thus spoken of,
It is a well-built populous sea port town, having a fine church, which the late rector, Mr Newcomb, spent the greatest part of his income in beautifying and adorning. He began by building a dome adjoining to the east end, into which he removed the altar, placing it under a canopy of inlaid work, supported in front by two fluted columns of the Corinthian order; but this gentleman died before he had finished his intended improvements. From the coal trade the inhabitants derive great wealth: The coal is so remarkable for burning slow, that it is said to make three fires. The port was formerly so shallow, that ships were obliged to take in their lading in the open road, which was sometimes attended with very great danger to the keelmen, who bring the coals down to the ships; on this account the vessels which loaded here, were usually smaller than in the neighbouring ports; but as they ride in the open sea, they no sooner get in their lading than they are ready to sail, which is a considerable advantage, as they have been known to steer from thence, to deliver their coals at London, to beat up against the wind in their return, and to get back before the ships at Shields, which were loaden before them, had been able to get over the bar: But this inconvenience has been in a great measure removed. The town is much improved and increased within these fifty years. The principal street is of great length, and of considerable breadth, parallel to which runs another, but narrower, besides a great number of others. The town, with the adjacent hamlets of Bishopweremouth, Bishopweremouth salt-pans, Monkweremouth, and the north shore side, contain about twenty thousand inhabitants. Those who are delighted with sea prospects may here see twenty or thirty sail of ships coming in with a flowing tide, from the coasting and foreign parts, fifteen or twenty going out on their respective voyages, and thirty or forty sail at anchor in the road, taking in their cargoes. Here is a very fine pier, which affords a pleasant walk, as well as shelter for the ships, and is said to have cost about 19,000l. They have also deepened the south channel, by taking up part of the rock. So great is the trade of Sunderland, that in 1752, there belonged to this port alone about one hundred and ninety ships, which are chiefly loaden with coals, the staple commodity of the place, and the produce of the adjacent country, whence many people are employed, and great sums brought in. In the summer season there are about ten thousand tons of lime and lime-stone, carried from this river, in small sloops of about twenty or thirty tons. It is said that there were loaded at this port, in 1748, 2497 sail of ships: And in the year 1752, besides the small sloops already mentioned,
 
Coasters.
Foreign port.
Total.
In the quarter ending at Lady-day
370
15
385
In the quarter ending at Midsummer
1303
64
1367
In the quarter ending at Michaelmas
1271
65
1336
In the quarter ending at Christmas
480
29
509
Total
3424
173
3597
This account is exactly transcribed from the custom-house books of that year, and many of these ships were from one hundred to five hundred tons burthen. The amount of the duties of goods exported and imported from and to foreign parts com. ann. is about 10,000l. And as it is computed that about 260,000 Winchester chaldrons of coals are carried coastwise, whereon there is a duty of five shillings a chaldron on delivery, amounting to 65,000l. the whole revenue arising to the crown from the imports, exports, and produce of Sunderland, may be reckoned about 75,003l. per annum, so that possibly, with respect to the duty arising from it, it may be the sixth, or at least the seventh port in the kingdom.
In addition to the preceding account, it is to be observed, that the chief or high street of Sunderland is nearly a mile in length, the houses well built with brick; the low street which runs parallel thereto, and adjoins upon the quay, is narrow and extremely populous: There are some new streets which run from the upper side of the high street, containing several elegant buildings. In regard to the population, in the year 1681, there were 83 burials in Bishopweremouth, which being multiplied by 30, (the average number which hath been found on general calculations of d
ths in this county) would make the number of souls in Weremouth and Sunderland 2490. The number of burials in Weremouth in the year 2781 was 153, and in Sunderland 382, which on the like calculation, will give 16,050, to which if we add 4890 for Monkweremouth, the whole number of souls will be 20,940. By the above account it appears the increase in population in one century was not less than 18,450 souls. The pier which was erected at the mouth of the river, in the coal owners case in 1766, before referred to, on the 21st of December, 1765, had cost 50,000l. and would then require 30,000l. more to perfect it. There are 350 vessels and upwards belonging to this port; and from the 5th of July to the 10th of August, 1776, inclusive, there were cleared at the custom-house 980 sail of ships coal-loaden, and above 100 vessels with lime: 5700 vessels cleared here in one year; and this navigation was performed by 1100 different vessels
Mr Robert Walker's minutes.—Williamson comptroller's clerk and deputy cust.
. There is a sail-cloth manufactory carried on at Bishopweremouth, and in Sunderland three great roperies, various anchor-smiths forges, and six building yards, constantly employed. The foreign trade of this port is accurately set out in the following tables
The author was indebted to his much valued friend, since deceased, George Thompson,
esq
surveyor of the customs, for these tables.
:
EXPORTS, 1776.
 
(Sunderland) Coals Chaldrons.
Copperas.
Horses.
Green Glass.
Lady-day
quarter
4990
813—3—13
7
260—0—0
Midsummer
10590
1093—2—4
9
4063—0—6
Michaelmas
14172
3331—2—21
0
170—0—0
Christmas
6156
1129—3—18
7
 
Totals
35912 tons
318—14—0
23
503—0—6
Grindstones 207¾ cha.—Earthen ware 67 crates.—Stockings 472 dozen. IMPORTS, 1776.
R. flax 165
Tons.
14 1 3.—Wainscot boards 6492.—Bolts duck 80.—Brandy 613 gallons.—Geneva 99 gallons.—Millstones 3.—Pantiles 7500.—Narrow Holland linen 0 2 2 ells.—Old iron 12 (tons) 118 1 6.—Hoops for coopers 2600.—Deals 828 2 5.—Ha. deals 26 2 9.—Battons 330 1 10.—Pailing boards 155 0 17.— M. balks 17 0 21.—Small balks 17 0 2.—Pipe staves 31 0 6.—Handspikes 41 1 12.—Capraven 1 1 16.—Wainscot 0 0 24.—Lath wood 10½ fathom.— Clapboard 1 2 20.—Oak plank 35 loads 19 feet.—Wine 65 3 gallons.—Small spars 38 0 16.—Oak timber 6 loads 11 feet.—Russia duck 9 2 20 ells.—Russia linen 4 3 10.—Hemp 4258 1 11.—Smalts 5817
lb.
—Spruce beer 17 bar. 10 gal. —Ends of deals 5 0 0.—Great masts 10.—Carraway seed 21 0 20.—Fire wood 17 fathoms.—Oars 1 2 0.—Oak knees 1 2 24.—Single usser 0 3 6.—Bound books 33
lb.
—German linens 20 ells. —Open tapes 45 dozen.—Toys 1 chest.—Fir timber 1609 load 33¼ feet.
EXPORTS, 1777.
Coals to Holland, Germany, France, and Russia 36056½ chaldrons.
Ditto in 1778, 29, 777½ chaldrons.
EXPORTS, 1779.
Coals to Holland, Germany, France, and Russia 27,438 chaldrons.—Copperas 376 (tons) 18 0 3.—Stockings 177 dozen.—Earthen ware 153 crates 10 casks.— Green glass bottles 6584.—Grindstones 225½ chaldrons.—Hops 12 pockets 13 bags.—Fire stone 7 tons.—Mats of tow 97 0 0.—Dried fish 1728 2 4.—Organs 3 cases.—Anchors 3 (qr.) 1 (ton) 17 0 0.—Oakum 1 ton.—Sailcloth 18 bolts 563 ells.—Lint 4 0 12.—India goods condemned, 342 yards India silk, 6 yards printed callico.—N. B. During the war the trade was greatly diminished, but in peace 36,056, or 37,000 chaldrons of coals was about the mean quantity exported to foreign parts.
IMPORTS, 1779.
From Holland: Rough flax (656) 0 2 23.—Wainscot boards No 4501 1614¼ inches.—Geneva 14 tons 251 gal.—Brandy 7 tons 229 gal.—2 marble gravestones, 46 feet superficial.—19 sails 865 ells.—9 gal. olives.—Duck or Holland sailcloth 28 ells.
From Norway: Deals under 20 feet 266 6 6.—Half deals 43 3 27.—Battens 256 3 12.—Pailing boards 128 3 10.—Small balks 18 0 6.—Middle balk 28 3 5 —Fir timber 1070 loads 41¾ feet.—Small spars 25 3 2.—Handspikes 29 0 9.— Tar 18 last.—Oak knees 3 0 0.—Capravens 1 0 28.—Fire wood 10 sathom.— Oars 40 pair.
From Germany: Oak plank 24 loads 21½ feet—Oak timber 17 loads 11¼ feet.—Oak knees for shipping 1 2 21.—Ditto for wherries 1 1 10.
From Sweden: Deals above 20 feet 55 1 23.—Battens 13 1 13.—Iron 91 (tons) 14 0 18.—Rough slax 117 3 18.
The church of Sunderland
Sunderland rectory.
—80l. by act of parliament.—Dedicated to the Holy Trinity.—Is not in charge. —Real value 300l.
The churgh was consecrated the 5th of September, 1719, by John Robinson, bishop of London, lord Crew then bishop of Durham, through his age and infirmities not being able to attend that duty.—Dr Thomas Mangey preached the consecration sermon.
Rectors.
Daniel Newcombe, born in the county of Durham, inducted 25th July, 1719.—Rich. Swainston, A. M. 17
9 p. m. Newcombe— George Bramwell, A. M. 1758, p. m. Swainston: He was chaplain to the Countess dowager of Darlington: Resigned 1762, son Hurworth—John Coxon, A. M. 1762, p. res Bramwe
Randal's MSS.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population from 1760 to 1779
5945
2262
7009
Number of burials in the last year 328.—Computed number of inhabitants 9840.
, as observed before, is an elegant new structure, built of brick, ornamented with hewn-stone, has a tower with five musical bells: The sont is of beautiful Italian marble. No burials are permitted within the church. Above the vestry is a small parochial library. Besides this church an elegant chapel was erected by subscription in the year 1769, dedicated to St John: The minister's stipend, with the clerk's fee, and other inferior officers, are paid by the annual rents of the pews, which are farmed out: It has a good organ. Much attention was paid to this laudable institution by John Thornhill,
esq
who has the right of presentation for twenty-one years from the time of consecration. There are also three dissenting meeting-houses, and one mass-house in this place: An hospital for decayed sailors, and the widows of such, supported by the contributions of able sailors: Also a school for twenty-four blue coat boys, who are cloathed, and the master paid monthly by the communion money, and the contributions made at the time of preaching two charity sermons in the year, the whole yearly product being about sixty pounds.
From the populousness of the country and narrowness of the land here, the average rent per acre is from three pounds ten shillings to four pounds. There are few natural curiosities here; those which are usually shewn to travellers are the chalybeat spring on the moor, and the fossils of Boydon Hill.
Near the town are two handsome seat houses, one the seat of Mr Thornhill, called Thornhill, the other Hynden Lodge, built by — Maling,
esq
Authors have made various conjectures touching the derivation of the name of Sunderland, some insisting it is the ancient Saxon
Sonderland,
signifying a particular precinct, with privileges of its own; others, that the name is expressive of a peninsula, severed and separated from the main land; and this latter appears the most probable, for we see by the ancient records, that in bishop Hatfield's time Hynden was a place held by Thomas Menvyll for the plying of ships
Vide exemplum An. 19 Ed. 3. 1346. Thomas Menvill occupavit quend' locum ibidem vocat. Hindon pro aedificando naves, & solvit pro inde episc. annual. redditum 2s.—
Vide Spearman's Inq.
It was the custom in those days to build their barks in creeks, &c.
: If the sea, in the beginning of the fourteenth century, formed a creek or bay there, the land on which Sunderland now stands would at high water be almost totally dissevered from the main; and the deep gulleys shew a probability that such was the case: The shore has greatly changed its figure in the course of four hundred years, and perhaps some art was used to exclude the sea from that course, when the haven of Sunderland grew into fame, and the coal trade began upon Were.
This town has been honoured by our kings in giving title of earl to several noble families, viz. Emanuel lord Scroope of Bolton, who having been first made president of the king's council in the north by king James I. the 6th of February, 1618, was by his son Charles I. created earl of Sunderland, the 19th of June, 1628: But dying without lawful issue, the same king created Henry lord Spencer of Wormleighton (in respect to his approved loyalty and adherence to him in the civil wars then on foot) earl of Sunderland, but he enjoyed his honour a small time, being slain the same year at the battle of Newbury, leaving a son Robert earl of Sunderland, who died in 1702, and was succeeded by Charles earl of Sunderland.
Having treated of Sunderland, we must return to those members of the parish of Weremouth which are still retained.
Bainbrigg-holme
lies a little to the south of Weremouth town, but of it we find nothing memorable.
To the southward of Bainbrigg-holme lies
Tunstall
Inq. p. m. John Hadam.—Wiseldike p. serv. red. unam rosam rubiam ad fest. nativ. Sc'i J. Bapt.
, under those lofty eminences and sea marks called Maidens Paps. All the lands in the township of Tunstall are held by lease for lives under the lord bishop of Durham
Rot. B. Tho. Card. No 22 in dorso. Sep. 1528.
Mem'd. Yt the Tuesday next after the Morrowe of Holy Rude Daye, in the twenty yere of the reigne of king Henry VIII. at Tunstall within the p'ishe of Wermouth, it is agreid and accorded betwixt John lord Lomley of yt oone p'tie, and Willyam Frankeleyn, clerk, chanceler of the bishopprick of Duresme, Willyam Bulm knight, sheryff of the sayme, Tho Tempest, knight, steward of the bishopprick, Willyam Strangway
. clerk, surveyor of the sayme, Rob. Bowes, esquyer, and John Bently, councellor to the most reverend father in Gode Tho. Cardinall, legate of England and bisshop of Duresme, of and for the occupacion of certen grounds within the towne and feldes of Tunstall aforesaid, yt is to say, yt the said lord Lomley shall have and occupy as sith grounds as the tenants of my lord legate grace of Tunstall aforesaid, shall affirme and apoynt to be the verry p'pre grounds of the said id Lomley, and all other lands in Tunstall aforesaid, to be occupied by my said ld legate grace tennants of Tunstall aforesaid, as p'cell of the said ld legate grace lands in Tunstall, unto sith tyme that the said id Lomley can sufficiently prove by sufficient evidences any part of the said lands in Tunstall to be and app'teyn to the said id Lomley as his inheritaunce, or els that the title of the said ld Lomley by comission or otherwise be lawfully tryed and found for the said lord Lomley.—Signed by the several partys.
Randal's MSS.
Tunstall Division.
Shadforth, &c. cont. ep. Dun. 3 Jan. 1671. Lib. M. p. 70, Registers office.
The bill sets forth, that the complainant, Shadforth, by virtue of three leases was seised of several farm-holds and lands, reputed to be a moiety of the whole township, which (with the consent of the bishop) were divided about eighty years ago; and that the other complainants, Smith, Ayre, and Dale, by three other leases are seised of the other moiety of the lands within the said township, which are undivided.
Anth. Smith, one messuage or seat house, 58 acres 2 roods and 7 perches, the south-east part of the Millfield, 40 acres and 15 perches in the west part of the Ox-pasture, 19 acres and 7 perches in the Lambs or Oxfield, 5 acres 1 rood and 17 perches in the west part of a close called the Pokes, 5 acres and 15 perches in the south part of the Little Meadow close.
Tho. Ayre and Edw. Dale, one messuage or seat house, with the garths and two cottages, 56 acres and 31 perches, being the north and west parts of the Mill-field, 43 acres and 27 perches in the east part of the Oxpasture, and the little close adjoining thereto, 5 acres and 15 perches, being the north east part of the Little Meadow close, 5 acres 1 rood and 17 perches in the east part of the Pokes, 17 acres and 17 perches in the west part of the east field.
Anthony Ayre, one messuage, two cottages, with several garths, a parcel of ground called Place Ways, 4 acres and 3 roods, a parcel of ground called Butfield, containing by estimation 99 acres, a parcel of ground called North Corn-field, containing by estimation 30 acres: One acre allotted to the mill.
.
To the east of Tunstall, and close upon the coast, lies
Ryhope,
which was restored to the See of Durham by Athelstan, as observed before. In bishop Bury's time we find a family took the local name of Reshop
Inq. p. m. Wm de Westhall, died seised of a messuage and 30 acres of land in the vill of Ruffhop held
in cap.
by the service of attending three courts, and 5 s. rent at the exchequer. Ao 2 Bury, ap Durh. in plen. com. cor. vic. Dun.
Philip de Refhop died seised of a messuage, &c. ut sup. and also held
in cap.
of Roger de Birden a messuage and 30 acres of land in Birden, by homage, fealty, and 6d. rent. Inq. p. m. Ao 8, Bury cor. vic. in pleno com. Dun.
Inq. p. m. Philip de Revehop, same premisses. Ao 13 Hatfield, ap. Dun. cor. J. de Birland in pl. com. Dun.
John Freeman died seised of same premisses at Ryhope. Inq. p. m. Ao 25 Hatfield, ap. Dun. cor. W. de Menevylle vic. Dun.—Afterwards Agnes Freeman.
, and held considerable possessions here, which appear afterwards to have devolved on a family called Freeman. In Boldon Book it is stated, that in Ryhope and Birden the bishop had twenty-seven villains, whose services were similar to those of Boldon
Reshop & Birden.
In Reshop & Birden sunt xxvij villani qui tenent operantur & reddunt sicut illi de Boldon.
El
er de Birden tenet ij bovatas & reddit viij s. & vadit in legationibus episcopi.
Anfridus ij bovatas quietus dum dominium ad sirmam tenuerit & cum dimiserit reddit dim. marc. & ibit. in legationibus episcopi.
Tres cotmanni tenent & operantur & reddunt sicut illi de Boldon.
Punderus tenet & reddit sicut ille de Boldon.
Molendinum reddit unam marcam.
Duae villae reddunt xxxij s. de cornagio & ij vaceas de metrid.
Dominium est ad firmam cum instauramento iij carucar & iij harcarior. & cum dim. carucata terrae sine inscauramento & cum ccc ovibus & reddit xxviij celdr. de frumento & xxviij celdras de avena & xiiij de ordeo & vj marcas pro ccc ovibus.
Parva Birdena.
Parva Birdena quam Joh. de Hoctona tenet reddit x s. & quadrigat vinum cum quatuor bobus & vadit in magna caza cum ij leporarijs.—
Boldon Buke.
Reshop.
Liberi tenentes.
Will's de Hoton tenet j mess. & xxxij acr. terrae quondam Joh's Birden & antea Galsridi clerici per servic. forin. & redd. p' ann. ad iiij terminos majores v s.— Agnes Freeman tenet j mess. & xxxij acr. terrae quond'm Will'i Wheschall pro serv. praed. redd. v s.
Terrae domin.
Will's de Reshop tenet, &c. Johannes Uttyng, Will's de Hoton, Will's de Shaldford, &c.
Terrae bond.
Will's de Reshop tenet, &c. & ad fest. purif. B. Mariae vj bz aven de seat. & pro operibus ad iiij term. xij s. & pro firma molend. cum tolnet cervis ad eosd. term. xiij s. vij d. q'or plus in omnibus bond, q'ar. Et pro scatpenys ad fest. purif. xix d. & solebat operari sicut illi de Boldon in toto p' an. xxxj s. v d. ob.
Johannes Uttyng & xvj alii tenentes tenent singuli eadem & faciunt & red. ut supra.
Et quilibet praedictor. bond. solv. ad fest. natal. d'ni ij gallin. & ad fest. pasch. x ova xxxvj gall. & xxxx ova. redd. inter se per ann. ad fest. Martini pro metrich vj s.—tenent commun. furnum ibid. & red. per ann. ad iiij term. iij s. iiij d.—De xxviij s. viij d. de cornag. ad fest. S. Cuthberti in Sept. & xxxvij s. vj d. pro wodlades ad fest. natal. S. Johannis Baptistae onerantur supra infra firm. bond.—Praedicti tenentes cariant d'no per ann. dimid. tonell. vini, vel solvunt pro cariagio.—Et quilibet solv. ad fest. purif. B. Mariae vj bz aven. de scat. Johannes Diconson tenet xii acr. terrae vocat Smythland, &c. Ranulphus Cuke, &c. Punderland iiij s. vj d. xxiiij gallin. vjc ova.
Cotag.
Johannes Pereson tenet j cotag. & xij acr. terrae & red. per ann. vj s. & ad molend. iiij s. vj d. & ad fest. natal. d'ni j gallin & ad fest. pasch. v ova & solet operari sicut illi de Boldon Galfridus Pashmore, &c.— Praedicti cotag. solvunt quolibet anno inter se pro operibus vocat Horneyeld xij d.
Terrae scaccarij.
Willielmus de Shaldeford, &c.
Terrae vast.
Ter. vast numerus non excedit ternarium solid. valor.
Birden.
Liberi tenentes.
Johannes Reyheved tenet, &c. per servic. sorin. & redd. &c.—Henricus Milner tenet, &c. per servic. j rosa.—Capellanus cantaria S. Mariae tenet j acr. &c.
Parva Birden.
D'n's de Neville & parcenarij sui tenent villam de Parva Birden et vadit in magna chaza d'ni episcopi & quadrigat vin
cum
ij bo
us & red. per ann. x s.
Terrae bond.
Thomas Johnson, &c. & pro operibus ad eosdem term. xij s. et pro
ma molend. cum
ol
et cervi
ad eosdem
erm xii
s. vij d. qua
plas in omnibus bond q'r. Et ad fest p
tis. B. Mariae pro scat
enys xi
d. & vj
z aven. ad idem festum & sol
bat operari sicut illi de Boldon. Will
s Gib
on & viij.
Tenantes,
&c. Et quilibet praedictor bondo
. solv. ad fest. purif. B. Mariae vj
bz aven in toto
ij gallin. & x ova—
ter se pro va
a de m
trich ad se
. S. Martini tantium vj s.
enent com'unum furuum ibid. & redd. per ann. i
s. De xuja v
ij d. pro co
. ad festum S. Cuthb. in Sept. xlij s. de wodlades one
antur supra infra forin. bondorum.—Et praedicti tenentes carnabunt inter se dimid. tonell. vini per ann. cum prae
iti
uerint
Terrae succarij.
Thomas Johnson tenet, &c. cum multis aliis unde j acr. jacet in campo de West Birden &
10d. in campo de Est Birden, quae ve
ere per'escaet Will'i Milner nativi d'ni & red p' ann. &c.
Hatfield's Survey
. Elfer de Birden then held two oxgangs of land, paying eight shillings rent, and serving on the bishop's embassies: Anfridus had the same service. The two vills paid thirty-two shillings cornage, and provided two milch cows. The lordship and demesne were then in farm, with a stock of three hundred sheep, under the rent of twenty-eight celders or chaldrons of bread corn, the like quantity of oats, and fourteen of barley, togegether with six marks in money, for the increase of the flock. Little Birden was then held by John de Houghton, under x s. rent, and the service of carrying the bishop's wine with four oxen, and attending the forest chace with two greyhounds. By bishop Hatfield's Survey we see that Will. de Hoton held lands at Ryhope by foreign service. The bond tenants paid each six bushels of oats, called the scotoats, or allotted oats, and in the lieu of work 12 s. and for mill farm and toll or mulcture 13s. 7d. and for the aid or exchequer money, or as it is called scat-pennys 19d. also two hens and ten eggs; they contributed to pay 6s. for a milch cow, 3 s. 4d. at four terms for the common furnace, 28s. 8d. cornage, and 27s. 6d. for woodloads: They carried yearly half a tun of wine, or paid for the carriage. John Diconson held twelve acres of land called Smythsland, and Ra. Cuke the Punderland, rendering besides 4s. 6d. rent, four score hens, and six hundred eggs. The cottagers, besides other services, paid 12d. for work called hornyeld
The hornyeld was a payment made in forests, for horned cattle depasturing. But the bishop having no forest there, we think the word is wrong transcribed, and should be hinegeld, which was a mulct paid as a
quatantia
for transgressions; and hinefare in the old books was a fine to the king,
si quis occidit hominem regis;
a mulct not unnecessary on such stormy coasts.
.
Here one of the instances on record occurred of the bishop of Durham's exercising his right to wreck of the sea
5 Oct. 12 Ja. 1614. By an inquisition then taken before Sir Geo. Selby, knight, sheriff of Durham,
virtute officii sui,
it is found that a ship or vessel called a hoy bound from Whitby to Sunderland was by tempest over set, and that the master and one of the sailors were drowned, and that two other of the seamen escaped to land in the boat, and the vessel became
derelict,
and being so was cast upon Ryhope sands
infra libertatem re
alem ep' atus Dunelm. ut W
eccum.
And that John Rand water bailiff had seized the said vessel and materials to the use of the bishop
ratione praerogative suae;
and that the owners had supplicated the bishop to restore the same.
Lib. M in the Register's office, 551. Ryhope division confirmed the 28th of June, 1680. The award bears date 22d of February, 1658. After stating the several allotments, then is noted
The farm or tenement of each owner, as known and enjoyed at the confirmation of the division, 28 July, 1680.
—Among the persons named we find two freeholders,
Anthony Smith for his see simple, &c. Ra. Goodchild, his see simple, &c.
the lands specified.
. In Ryhope is the seat house of John Carr,
esq.
To the southward of Ryhope is
Burdon.
In bishop Bury's time the family of Reshope held lands here
Vide Ryhope.
, and afterwards it gave name to the resident family, and continued their possession for a considerable time
Rog. de Birden held of the bishop
in capite,
the manor of Birden, by homage, fealty, and 10 s. rent.— Inq. p. m. Ao 12 Hatfield, ap. Dun. cor. J. de Birland esc. Inq. p m. J. de Birden, Ao 18 Hatfield ap. Dun. cor. Tho. del Ryner esc.—Inq. p. m. Eliz. fil. Rog. de Birden, a third part of the manor of Birden, 25 Hatfield. cor. W. de Menevylle vic. Dun.—Inq. p. m. Emma wid. of Emice de Escoland, a moiety of the manor, Ao 36 Hatfield cor. W. del Bowes esc.—Inq. p. m John de Burdon, sen. held by courtesy of Eng. in right of Alice his wife, daughter of Roger de Birden, a messuage and 100 acres in West Birden.— Inq. p. m. Tho. de Claxton, a messuage and 100 acres of land, formerly Rob. de Skelton's, Ao 14, Skirlaw, ap. Dun. cor. R. Conyers esc.
. In the Survey we see the names of John Rugheved and Henry Milner free tenants, and also the chaplain of the chantry of St Mary. West Birden, or as it is called in the Survey, Little Birden, was the estate of the Nevilles with other parceners, who held the vill by the service of attending the forest chace, and carrying the bishop's wine with four oxen. It became the estate of Ralph earl of Westmoreland, who aliened the same with other lands, and obtained a pardon for so doing in 1430
Maddox Form. p. 3
1, W. Tunstall, W. Horne, & al's nup' adquisivissent sibi & hered. suis de Rad'o nup' com. Westm'lande d'no de Neville de Raby & de Middleham, &c.
. The bond tenants paid for work 12s. and for the mill and mulcture 13s. 7d. for aid or scat-pennys 19 d. and six bushels of oats. Some of the bondsmen paid only six bushels of oats in the whole, two hens and ten eggs, for a milch cow 6s. for the furnace 2s. 13 s. 8d. cornage, and 42 s. woodloads, and also carried amongst them half a tun of wine when required. Under the title of exchequer lands we see the escheated estate of Milner, a neof or native of the lord.
To the north lies
Silksworth,
adjoining to which is
Ferrington Hall.
Robert, the son of Richard of Ravenswick, granted to his nephew Galfrid, the son of Galfrid, lands in Silksworth, in the instrument called Silkeswich, and described to have been the property of Galfrid, the son of Richard, and father of the then grantee
See this record at length under Ravensworth.
. The Menevylles afterwards had property here
Agnes widow of John de Menevylle held a messuage and a carucate of land for life in Silksworth, of the prior of Durham, or the heirs of Richard de Emyldon: Who was lord of the manor not known. Inq. p. m. Ao 16 Hatfield, ap. Dun. cor. W. de Claxton esc.
Peter de Selby who held of the lord bishop
in capite,
a messuage and 34 acres of land in Sylkesworth, without licence, aliened the same in see simple to John de Bulkham, and he aliened to Henry Spencer and John Gawdes without licence, value 40 s. — Inq. cap. Ao 8 Skirlaw, ap. Houghton cor. W. de Elmedon, esc.
There was an ancient chapel at Silksworth.
. And in bishop Dudley's time, and for several succeeding years, it was the estate of the Middletons
Inq. p. m. Tho. Midilton arm. man' de Silksworth, Thomas his heir, Ao 4 Dudley.
.
Some confusion appears in the records between
Grindon
in this parish
Grendonia.
Walterus de Roth tenet Grendonam quam episcopus emit & ei pro servitio suo dedit, & reddit ij bizancias per annum, liberam & quietam ab omnibus aliis servitiis.—
Boldon Buke.
, and a place of the like name in the southern part of the county; but as far as we are able to distinguish the same, in the Boldon Book, it is stated, that the bishop had purchased Grindon, and gave it to Walter de Roth for his services, he rendering two hawks
(duas bizancias)
yearly. The family of Hiltons afterwards possessed it, and Alex. de Hilton died seised of the manors of Forth, Grendon, and Cloncroft
Inq. p. m. Ao 16 Hatfield, ap. Dun. cor. W. de Claxton esc. Inq. p. m. W. Bowes mil. 1 bishop Booth, de manerio de Clowcroft ten. de Will'o barone de Hilton, &c.
, which he held by the service of one knight's see and suit at the county, in the time of bishop Hatfield. We find Grindon still remaining in the family, in bishop Neville's time, when Sir Robert Hilton died seised thereof
Exempl. of an inq. taken on the death of Sir Rob. Hilton, Forth manor, Grendon manor &c.
Rudd's MSS.
. It is now the possession of John Nesham,
esq.
Clowcroft became the estate of the Bowes's.
Nearer to Weremouth, on the turnpike road leading to Durham, lies
Low Barnes,
formerly the seat of the Chapmans, now the property of Richard Pemberton,
esq
and a little to the northward is
High Barnes,
the seat of the Ettrickes
In the records of bishop Langley we find the Carlisles hold a manor called the manor of Barnwell, with a mill and pool on the rivulet called called Ellyngburn. Inq. p. m Rob. Carlisle, Ao 19 Langley.
. Near the banks of the river is
Pallion,
the seat of the family of Goodchilds. This place in the old records is called Hameldon, or the manor of Pavillion; was anciently the possession of the Dalden's
Inq. p. m. Will. de Dalden, who jointly with Elianor his wife, held the manor of Hameldon by the quarter part of a knight's see, Ao 25 Hatfield ap. Dun. cor. Will. de Menevylle vic. Dun.
Inq. p. m. R Coniers mil. Ao 3 Skirlaw, ap. Dun. cor. L. de Lomley esc.
, and afterwards of the Coniers's, Sir Robert Coniers having the same in right of Alice his wife, the manor being granted by Thomas de Norton and another in settlement, by virtue of which Alice died seised thereof about the second year of bishop Langley, with limitations to the heirs of her body by the said Robert; she left one daughter, their issue, who married Tho. Brownfleet
Inq. p. m. Alic
e
x. Rob. Conyers chiv. maner de Homeldon al's dict. man. de Pavillion, &c. Ao 2 Langley, ap Dun. cor. P. de Lyndeley esc. in co. Dun. Inq. p m. Will. Hilton, 1 Booth, maner de Hilton, Usworth, North Bedyk, Bermeston, Le Ford, Grendon, Clowcroft, et Newton.
. The manor was held of the bishop by military service and suit at the county court. We find the family of Bowes possessed of this manor in bishop Booth's time; and by inquisitions taken in the first and seventeenth years of that prelate, on the death of Sir William Bowes, knight, and William Bowes,
esq
his son, it appears they died seised of the same, thus described, the manor of Hamyldon, with its appendages, consisting of a messuage with the appurtenances called the Barnes, wherein is one hall, with two chambers, one kitchen, two grainges, one dovecot, two hundred acres of arable land, one hundred acres of pasture, and twenty acres of meadow; in another inquisition it is coupled with
maneria de Newton juxta Dun. Hamylden, Clowecroft, & Palyon ac piscar, in aqua de Were voc. Bowes water.
The ancient records set forth, that the bishops of Durham had a manor here, called the manor of Hameldon, and in bishop Hatfield's Survey it is noted as follows: The free tenants are named, among whom Ralph de Eure, knight, stands first; their services are set forth, and that of being emissaries appears general. The tenants of the demesne lands are next noted, and their services. The bond tenants were nine in number, each holding a messuage and two oxgangs of land, of fifteen acres each oxgang, and rendering 16s. for work, for aid or scat-pennys at the feast of the Purification 19d. for aver-pennys or plow-money at the two feasts of St Cuthbert and St Nicholas, and the feast of St John the Baptist 12d. for woodlades at the feast of St John 8 d. for aid or scat-pennys at the feast of St Martin 15d. at the feast of the Purification six bushels of oats, at the Nativity two hens, and at Easter ten eggs; and they used to work as the bond tenants of Boldon: In all 20s.
Hameldon.
Liberi Tenentes.
Radulphus de Eure miles tenet j mes. & xv acr. terrae quond'm Will'i Lorimer, per cartam & servic. forin. & vadit in legation, episcopi & redd. per ann. ad iiij term iiij s. iijd.—Et j mes. & xxiiij acr. terrae quond'm Johannis Fabr. per cart. & servic. forin. redd. iiij s.
Robertus Jurdanson j mes. & ij bovat contin xxx acr. & facit iiij porcation. in autumno & arat & herciat & vadit in legation, episcopi & redd. per ann. v s.
Thomas de Hexham capellanus j mes. & xij acr. terrae, &c. & vadit in legationibus d'ni episcopi & redd. per ann. ijs.
Robertus Burg, &c. Tho. Goseson, &c. & vadit in legation, ut supra, &c.
Terrae Dominicae.
Johannes Swalwels tenet ibid. xvj acr. de terris dominicis & redd. per ann. xiij s. iiij d. Robertus Swalwell & xvj alij tenentes tenent singuli xvj acr. &c.
Cotag.
Hugo de Shaldeford, &c. Johannes Swalwels, &c. Will's Sawer & v alij tenent &c. Et omnes praedicti tenentes cotag. solebant reddere inter se pro operibus ad festum S. Martini cum cotag. vast. ut inserius xj s. iiij d. &c.
Terrae bond.
Johannes Swalwell tenet j mes. & ij bovat. terrae bovata contin. xv acr. terrae & redd. per ann. ad iiij term. usual xvj s. pro operibus, & pro scatpenys ad fest. purif. xjx d. Et pro averpenys ad duo festa S. Cuth. & natalis S. Johannis Baptistae xij d. Et pro wodlades ad idem fest. S. Johannis viij d. & pro scatpenys ad fest. S. Martini xv d. Et ad fest. puris. B. Mariae vj bz aven. de scat. & ad fest. natal. d'ni ij gallin. & ad fest. Paschae x ova & sol
b. operari sicut illi de Boldon in toto xx s.
Idem Johannes & Rob. Swalwells & sex alij xj mes. & xxij bovat. terrae & faciunt & reddunt ut supra.
Et sunt ibid. v. terr. bond dimis. ad penyferme quarum quaelibet redd. p' ann. xiij s. iiij d. in toto lxvjs. viijd.
Iidem tenentes tenent inter se quand'm pastur. vocat. Dovesyd iiij s.—Shottonesden liijs. iiij d.—Estmore vijs.—Morelawe xj s & xxxiiij acr. & dim. super Grenlawe xxviij s. jx d. quodd'm molend. ventrit cum portion. terr. vast. & soleb. reddere per ann. vjli. xiij s. iiij d. modo cxiij s. iiij d.—reddunt inter se pro j vacca de metrich. ad fest S. Martini vj s.—Pro cornag. ad fest. S. Cuth. in Sep. cum portion, terr. vast. xx s.—Pro communi furno ibid. ij s.
Robertus Burgeys tenet j mes. & vj acr. terrae & dim. acr. prati pro offic. punder. ibid. & redd. per ann. iijs. & ad fest. natalis d'ni xl gallin. & ad fest paschae xviij
xx
ova.
Robertus Brome tenet j firg. ibid. xij d.
Terrae scaccarij.
Praedicti tenentes tenent inter se xviij divers tenur. plac. toft. & acr. terrae red. cert. red. Tho. Robinson & duo alij tenentes j toft. cum gardin & ij dimid. acr. terrae.
Terras vast. enumerare non vocat.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Five bond tenements were then let at penny farme, or rack rent. The tenants held jointly a pasture called Doveside, Shotton's deen, Eastmore, Morelawe, and lands on Greenlawe. A wind corn mill formerly 6l. 13s. 4d. yearly rent, then 5l. 13s. 4d. They paid amongst them for one milch cow at Martinmas 6 s. for cornage at the feast of St Cuthbert in September 20s. for the common furnace 2s. The punder held six acres of land, rendering 3 s. rent, forty hens, and eight score eggs. The common forge paid 12d. rent.
The Parish of
SEAHAM.
The next adjoining parish towards the south is SEAHAM, situated upon the sea shore. The village is small, having one chief mansion, the summer seat of the family of Milbanke of Halnaby. This is one of the places said to be restored to the church of St Cuthbert by Athelstan, but by what means afterwards aliened, is not known, as it is a freehold manor. The first family we find settled at Seaham was that of Hadham, Sir Nich. de Hadham, knight, being possessed of this manor in 1260
Rot. Bury, sch. xx. Rot. cancellar. de lib'tate epat. Dun de te'p'e vacac'ois.
Et comp. est, &c. q'd p'd'cus Joh. de Hadham fuit s. in d'nico suo ut de feodo, die quo obiit de man'io de Scham cum p'tin ad q'd man'ium p'tinet unum molendinum ventriticum, &c. et ea tenuit de lib'tate ep'atus p'd'ci vac & in manu regis existen, &c. p' hom. & fid. & co'em sect. ad com. Dun. & valent p' ann. in o'b's exit vijli. viijd. in quib's comp'henduntur xlij s. annui reditus de ten'tib's ad voluntat. &c. Tho. f. p'd
i Joh'is est, &c. her. ejus, &c.
Liberac'o. Rex, &c dil'co sibi W. &c. esc. &c. Sciatis q'd cepimus fid. Tho. f. & h. Joh. de Hadham defuncti de o'ib's ter. & ten. &c. & ei ter. & ten. illa reddidimus. Et ideo vob. mandamus quod, &c. eid. T. de o'ib's ter. & ten. &c. plenam s. h'ere sac. salva, &c. & salva Elizabeth que fuit uxor p'sati Joh. r'onabili dote sua de ter. & ten. p'dcis s'ed'm legem, &c. 30 March, 1345.—
Randal's MSS.
Rot. B. Hatfield, Sch. 5, No 7, Dat. 28 May, 1378. Carta Job's de Popham de custodia h'edis Thome de Hadham.—Tho. dei gra &c. Sciatis, &c. co'cessimus & co'misimus dil'co consanguineo n'ro Joh'i de Popham custodiam o'ium terrar. & ten. cum p'tin. suis que suerunt Thome de Hadham defuncti que de nob. tenentur in capite, una cum advocac'oe eccl'ie de Seham & reversionib's quib'scun
que
cum accederint, quae r'oe minoris etatis Joh'is fil. & he'dis p'dci Thome ad manus nostras devenerunt. sis'it cum maritagio ejusd. Joh'is fil. Thome abs
que
disp'agac'one, &c.—
Ibid.
Rot. E. Langley, in dorso No 5, dat. 26 Jan. 1420. Thomas, &c. Quia accepimus, &c. p' inquisico'em, &c. q'd Thomas Hadham suit s'eitus in d'nico suo, &c. de medietatibus man'or de Seham & Seton cum Slinglawe & advocac'oe eccl'ie de Seham cum p'tin, &c. ac uno tosto in ballio boriali Dun. q'd de nobis tenetur p' s'vicium vocat. Casterwarde te'pe guerre; & de una clausura in le Croke juxta Brauncepath, &c. Tibi p'cipimus, &c. plenam seisinam h'ere fac. &c.—
Ibid.
. His posterity continued there for several generations. It appears that Seaton, situated to the westward, and Slinglaw, were jointly possessed with Seaham. The Hadhams had aliened a moiety of these manors in the time of bishop Hatfield, in whose thirty-third year we find by an inquisition taken on the death of Thomas de Hadham, that he died seised only of a moiety
Inq. p. m. Tho. de Hadham, Ao 33 Hatfield, ap. Dun. cor. J. de Hyndeley, esc.
: And the alienation was made to the family of Conyers. By an inquisition taken on the death of Margaret the wife of Sir Thomas Boynton, knight, it is set forth, that she died seised of a moiety of the manor of Seaham, a fourth part of the manor of Plawsworth, and thirty-four acres in Whitworth, held by virtue of the feoffment of John Conyers, brother of Robert Conyers of Ormsby, knight, to the said Margaret and Robert Conyers, and Alice his wife, and the longest liver of them; with remainder after their deaths to William son of Jordan de Dalden,
esq
and the heirs male of his body; remainder to Robert Conyers and Alice, and the heirs of their bodies; remainder to John son of Edmund de Kinllingwyck, and his heirs male; remainder to Robert son of the said Robert Conyers, and his heirs male; remainder to John his brother, and his heirs male; remainder to Joan wife of T. de Brounefield, the right heir of Robert Conyers and Alice
Inq. p. m. Marg. &c. Ao 3 Langley, ap. Dun. c. P. de Lyndeley esc.
. In the first year of bishop Neville an inquisition was taken on the death of Joan, there called Brounestete, in which the moiety of Seaham is described; whereby it is stated, that William Bowes,
esq
was her son and heir
Inq. p. m. Johan, &c. ob. sei in d'nico suo ut de feod. d. q. ob. de me'te man'ij de Seham cum m'ete advocac'ois eccl'ie de Seham cum p't que quid. m'etas te de d'co d'no ep. p' s. mil. & val. p' an. ult'a repr. c s. & sunt in d'ca me'te man'ij quid. situs man'ij qui nich. val. p'an. ult'a repr. quinq. mess. quatuor cot. cum p't que val. x s. p' an. &c. ducent. acr. terrae arab. que val. lx s. per an. &c. quinq. acr. prati que val. x s. p' an. &c acr. past. q. val. xx s. p' an. &c. & sic dicta m'etas man'ij de Seham extendit ad dict. c s. p' an. &c.
About the 12th of king James I. the bishop claiming the goods of felons and felon de se in the manor of Seton, then belonging to Sir Jerome Bowes, a
quo warranto
was brought against the bishop to shew why he claimed to have
bona & catalla felonum,
and of such as stand mute within his said manor: To which the bishop pleaded, that Durham was a county palatine, and that he claimed the same and
jura regalia
therein by prescription, and that the same extended
inter Tyne & Tease,
and that the said manor is within the said county: To which plea there was a demurrer; and after several arguments it was resolved, 1st, That though a private person cannot claim felons' goods by prescription, yet the bishop may as parcel of his county palatine: 2d, That though this manor came to the crown by attainder, yet the bishop did not thereby lose his right.—2 Bul. 226. 3 Bul. 156, 335. 3 Bul. refers to some old records in the exchequer, as to the bishop's claims.—
Gyll's MSS.
. And the family of Bowes held the possession for many years
Inq. p. m. Will. Bowes, knt Ao 1 Booth, cor. G. Midilton, esc. lands in Seton, and moiety of Seham, &c.
Inq. p. m. Will. Bowes, knt Ao 9 Booth, cor. Joh. Athirton, esc. a moiety of the manor of Seham, and the advowson.
Inq. p. m. Will. Bowes, knt Ao 17 Booth, lands in Seton, and a moiety of Seham, &c.
. The family of Hadhams continued in possession of the other moiety
Inq. p. m. Joh Hadham, Ao 1 Booth, cor. G. Midilton, esc. a moiety of the manors of Seham and Seton, with Slinglaw.
Inq. p. m. Will. Hadham, p. quandam cartam suam 1st May, 1452, dedit & concessit Will'o Lambert mag'ro collegij de Stayndrop, ac vicario de Gainford, Rollando Hadham presbitero fr'i suo et Peronille ux'
sue o'ia t'ras & ten. &c. & dic. q'd Rog'us Conyers Chr. & Johan ux. que suit ux. Joh'is Hadham defunct. exit. & p'sicua d'cor ter. & ten. &c. a temp'e m'tis p'dei Will'i p'ceperunt, &c. The See vac. 1463.
. Sundry other families possessed parcels of land there. John de Langton held a messuage and a carucate of land in Seaton, and two oxgangs of land in Seaham, by the sixteenth part of a knight's fee, formerly the possession of William Birrays
Inq. p. m. Joh. de Langton, Ao 6 Hatfield, cor. vic. ap. Dun.
. Simon de Esh held thirty-nine acres of land, and ten acres of meadow in Seaton, and two oxgangs of land in Seaham
Inq. p. m. Sim. de Esh, Ao 15 Hatfield, ap. Dun. cor. W. de Claxton, esc. in co. Dun.
. And Sir Ralph Eure, knight, held three cottages and four score and fifteen acres of land in Seaton and Slinglaw, of John de Hadham
Inq. p. m. Ra. Eure, mil, Ao 17 Langley, cor. Rob. Eure, esc.
. To trace the progress of these small parcels would be both laborious and fruitless.
The present church of Seaham
Seaham: Dedicated to St Mary.—Abb. of Coverham olim propr.—The heirs of Mr Robinson.
This vicarage is in the deanry of Easington, and was appropriated to Coverham abbey in bishop Sherwood's pontificate; but by whom not shewn.
King's b.
5
0
5
Proc. arch
0
3
8
Yearly tenths
0
10
0½
Real value
300
0
0
Proc. ep.
0
3
4
RECTORS.
Rich. de Overton, 1293
Hugh de Karliolo, oc. 7 Ap. 1334
Thomas de Hadham
Thomas de Hadham, 1364, p. m. Hadham
John de Hadham, 1381, p. m. Hadham
Thomas Stones, 1415.
John Whitham, 1436, p. m. Stones
Richard Ledyerde, oc. 3 Jan. 1451
Thomas Langton was the last rector
VICARS.
Rob. Chaumer, first vic. 1490
John Sedel, 1501
Thomas Wright, 1545
Thomas Esterbie, cl. 22 Dec. 1575, Eliz. regina.
John Esterbie, 1622
Henry Dobbins, A. M. 15 Oct. 1661, pr. honoratissima Juliana vicecomitissa dotissa de Campden
Arthur Noel, A. B. 17 March, 1668, p. m. Dobbins
Alex. Clarke, 1692, p. m. Noel, pr. Id Gainsborough
Henry Ireland, A. M. 1697, p. m. Clarke
John Robinson, A. M. 14 Sep. 1741, p. m. Ireland, pr. Mrs Robinson
John Rotheram, A. M. p. m. Robinson
Richard Wallis, resig. Rotheram
Randal's MSS.
There was a chantry in this church dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary.—Richard Atkinson cantarista, 1501.—
Ibid.
Seaham parish.
Book of rates.
Value of lands.
 
£.6
3
4
£.853
0
0
Grey's MSS.
 
Land tax at 4s.
County rates 6s. 8d.
Seaton and Slingley
19
11
0
1
0
0
Seaham
26
19
0
1
5
0
Mann's MSS.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population from 1660 to 1679
1
4
64
104
from 1760 to 1779
80
22
84
Decrease
44
42
20
Burials in the last year 6.—Computed number of inhabitants 180.
, an humble edifice, doth not appear from the broken arch which divides the nave from the chancel to bear any similitude to the original building, that arch having been very lofty. We were told that in repairing the chancel, a fire grate and tongs of iron were discovered below the foundations; and that the walls are constructed of stone and mud, without lime. The nave and chancel are of an equal width, there being no ailes; the chancel is nine paces in length, and the nave sixteen, and five paces in width. There are three windows to the south and two to the north in the nave, and the like number north and south in the choir, with two small windows to the east. The tower is narrow. In the church yard is a stone coffin, with a cover, lately dug up; the cover ridged on the top, as if designed to shut off any water that might come to it; on one side of the cover is an inscription with some Saxon characters,
"Hic jacet Richardus vic. de Sehaiam."
In the list of incumbents we find two Richards in antiquity, Richard de Overton in 1293, and Richard de Ledyerde in 1451. The probability that this coffin contained the remains of Overton, rests on the circumstances of the Saxon character and stone coffins being disused in so late an aera as the fifteenth century; it was a degree of elegance used in ancient interments to have such coffins. The body was then wound in fine linens. attired in the most honourable vestments, and laid in spices; things not suited to mean personages. Richard de Overton was of such consequence, that in the twenty-second of Edward I. he had the king's letters of protection
Vide Prynn, p. 596.
.
HOUGHTON-LE-SPRING
The Parish of
HOUGHTON-LE-SPRING.
To the south-west of the parishes of Seaham and Weremouth lies HOUGHTON. The village is happily seated at the head of a fine vale, opening towards the west, and sheltered from the north and east by a chain of hills. The rectorial house is venerable and extensive; besides which the town contains many large and handsome modern buildings, inhabited by persons of considerable fortune.
This being one of the great manors of the bishop of Durham, its peculiar customs are set forth both in Boldon Book and Hatfield's Survey
Hoctona.
In Hoctona sunt xiij cotemanni, qui tenent, operantur, & reddunt sicut illi de Newbotill, & tres alij dimidij cotemanni qui operantur sicut iij praenominatj de Newbotill.
Henricus praepositus tenet ij bovatas de xxiiij acris pro servitio suo.
Faber xij acr. pro suo servitio.
Carpentar unum tostum & iiij acr. pro suo servitio
Punderus xx acr. & habet travas carucarum de cadem & de Wardon & de Morton et red'it lx gallinas & ecc ova.
Molendina de Newbotill & de Bedic cum medietate molendini de Raynton xv marcas.
Dominium iiij carucarum & oves cum pastura sunt in manu episcopi.—
Boldon Buke.
Houghton.
Liberi tenentes.
Isabella qui fuit uxor Roberti de Wessyngton tenet. &c. quond'm Johannis de Cornhall &
dd. per ann.
pro servic. forin.
xiij s. iiij d.
Robertus Coigniers miles, & Ricardus de Burnynghill tenent villam de South Bedyk in qua fuere villani per librum de Boldon & soleb't invenire xxviij homines ad metend. in autumno & xxxvj quadrig. ad quadrigand. Blada d'ni apud Houghton modo redd. nihil ideo inquir. red. c s.
Robertus de Carlell tenet moram de Penichore per cartam & servic. forin. & redd. p' ann. liij s. iiij d. tenet. molend. ibid. p. cartam et servic. forin. et redd. per ann. xxvj s. viij d.—tenet certas ter. apud Bernewell
redd. per ann. ij s. vj d.
Vide inq. p. m. vet. No 835.
Terrae domin.
Matildis Galuey & alii, &c.
Terrae bond.
Johannes Ferrour tenent j cotag. & j bovat terrae contin. xij acr. & solebat operari sicut illi
c Newbotill & redd. per annum, &c. vj s.
Thomas Fery & xxiij alii tenentes, &c. omnes isti bondag. solv. inter se ad supplend. x marc. de antiqu. red. corum xvj d. — solv. inter se ad. fest. natalis d'ni xl gallin. & ad fest. paschae lxx ova.
Molend.
Tenentes villae tenent inter se medietatem molendini aquatici & alia medietas pertinet priori Dunelm. redd. cxiij s. iiij d.
Will. Milby tenet bracinag. villae ibid. & redd. per annum x s.
Johannes Ethewyk tenet com'un furnum ibid. & redd. per annum ij s.
Tenentes de Boldon, Whitburn, & Clevedon redd. ibid. per ann. ut quieti sint de salcat. prati de Houghton xij s. iij d.
Tenentes tenent xiiij acr. & j rod. prati dominical. & redd. per annum xl s.
Punder ibid. red. pro officio suo ad fest. natal. d'ni xl gallinas & ad fest. Paschae ijc ova.
Terrae scaccurij.
Robertus Portar, &c. — Magister hospitalis de Kypier tenet j plac. pro j grang. ibid. & redd. per annum vj d. — Predicti tenentes villae tenent inter se quandam pastur. vocat Bradmore & redd. vj s.
d.—Iidem tenent inter se xiij acr. terrae quondam in tenura bondor. de parva Birden red v s. vj d.
Hatfield's Survey.
Within this manor are Burdon, Tunstall, Richope, Herringtons East and West, Bishop Wearmouth, Newbottle, Wardenlaw, and Houghton, all which places attended the bishop's court there. Et rector de Houghton gandet claus. vocat Courtelose ann. valoris 7l. p' quo debet solvere expensas prandij p's
n'lo el'co & attendentib's suis bis in anno.—
Mickleton's MSS.
. It comprehends many townships, which perform suit at the bishop's court there. In the ancient records the services of each district are distinctly specified. According to the
PARSONAGE-HOUSE at HOUGHTON-LE-SPRING
Boldon Book there were thirteen cottagers in Houghton, each of whom held twelve acres of land, and wrought for the lord two days in each week throughout the year, and four days at harvest with all their family, except the housewife, and paid one hen and five eggs: There were also three half-cottagers, who held six acres each, and wrought two days in each week from Pentecost to Martinmas. Henry
praepositus,
the reeve or headborough, held two oxgangs of land, consisting of twenty-four acres each, for his service. The smith had twelve acres, the carpenter a toft and four acres, the pinder had twenty acres and a thrave of corn from each carucate of land in Houghton, Wardon, and Morton, and rendered sixty hens and three hundred eggs. Newbottle and Biddick mills, with a moiety of Rainton mill, produced fifteen marcs. The demesne with the stock of sheep and pasture, were in the lord's hands. By Hatfield's Survey it appears that Will. Milby held the malting or brewery of Houghton, under the yearly rent of 10s. and that one Elwick had the common bakehouse at 2s. rent; that there was only one free tenant in Houghton, Isabell the wife of Rob. de Wessynton, who held lands of 13s. 4d.
fee-farm,
theretofore the estate of John de Cornhill; but we are not able to trace down the possession by the inquisitions
post mortem,
under the succeeding prelates
Indictm.—W. C. de, &c. & 18 alii laici ho'ies non h'entes, nec aliquis eor li'ens terras sen tent'a ad valorem 40s. p' ann. contra formam statuti inde editi tenent leporarios & quilibet cor. tenet leporarios & leciscas & in nire lepores investigaverunt & 12 die Januarij, Ao &c. 16, in campo de Hoghton 6 lepores interseccrunt, &c. Temp. ep. Neville.—
Rudd's MSS.
.
The rectorial house, a handsome stone edifice, stands within a court, having a porter's lodge at the entrance. The house, which fronts to the south, has by the present rector, been laid open to a fine view of the country by pulling down two walls with which it was surrounded. It is flanked on one side by a chapel, and on the other by an ancient tower. The chapel was built by Mr Davenport, and stalled and wainscotted with Irish oak at the same time that he erected the present mansion-house. The tower was erected by John Kelyng, clerk, about the year 1483. He being rector, began to inclose, fortify, and embattle a house above the lower porch within his rectory, with a wall of lime and stone, and to make a fortress of it without licence: Bishop Dudley pardoned the offence, and in consideration of a fine paid, granted him licence to embattle the house, and make it a fortress for himself and successors for ever
Rot. A. Dudley, No 87.—Will's d. g. &c. Sciatis, &c. Joh'es Kelyng, cl. r'r eccl'ie p'oial de Houghton quad. dom. sup'a p'tam suam inferiore inf'a rectoriam suam apud Houghton cum muro, &c. includere erigere fundare ac domum illam batellare, &c. fine, &c. Nos de gra. n'ra, &c. & p' quod. fine, &c. pardonavimus, &c. Et ult'ius concessimus & lic. dedimus p' nob. & succ. n'ris &c. p'fat. Joh'i q'd ip'e donum suam p'dcam batellare kirnellare macheculare & turillare, ac fortallicium inde facere, &c. In cujus, &c. Dat. &c. 6 die Oct. Ao pont. n'ri 8o A. D. 1483.—
Randal's MSS.
Rectory of Houghton.
This church is in the deanry of Easington, is dedicated to St Michael, and the bishop of Durham is patron. It is rated in the king's books the highest of any in England.
K. books 124l.—Yearly tenths 12l. 8s.—Proc. ep. 2l. 6s. 8d.—Proc. archd. 4s.—Real value 800l.
RECTORS.
Renaldus, 1131
Rogerus Presbyter, 1147
John Mansell, 1260, pr. by k. Hen. 3, Ao reg. 45
Rob. de Bekenham, 1294
Manserus Marmeyon, 1330, pr. k. Edw. Sede vac.
Will. de Dalton, 1347, p. m. Marmeyon
Will. de Burstall, 1265, p. m. Dalton
John Henlee, d'nus, 1377, p. res. Burstall
Tho. Walkington, LL. D. 1390
John de Neuton, p. m. Walkington
Hen. Oculshagh, 1427, p. m. Neuton
Tho. Astlegh, 1434, p. m. Oculshagh
Henry Gillowe, cl. 30 July, 1470
Prebendary of Fridaythorpe in York ch. 1479. Ob. 16 Feb. 1482; appointed by his will to be buried in Houghton church-yard.
Henry Keling, cl. 1412, p. m. Gillowe
Alex. Lygh, cl. 1490
Rob. Kent, S. T. P. 4 Dec. 1500, p. res. Lygh
Will. Frankeleyn, S. T. B. oc. 14 May, 1528
Bernard Gilpin, S. T. B. circ 29 Oct. 1558
E. registro Barnes, p. 2. Geo. Swalwell ordained deacon by bishop Barnes 6 Oct. 1577, was reader of Houghton-le-Spring. Afterwards being reconciled to the Roman Catholic church, he was apprehended and kept above a year prisoner in Durham goal; at last being brought to his trial, he was arraigned with two missionary priests, John Boast and John Ingram. The jury brought him in guilty of death, for being proselyted to the church of Rome. Ingram suffered at Newcastle, Boast at Durham, and Swalwell at Darlington, 26 July, 1594, and his body thrown into a hole near the gallows.—Ch. Hist. vol. ii. p. 175.
Emanuel Barnes, S. T. P. 5 Mar. 1583, p. m. Gilpin
R. Bellamye, in Med. D. A. M. 25 Jan. 1584, p. res. Barnes
Rob. Hutton, S. T. B. 1589, p. res. Bellamye
Aug. Lyndsell, S. T. P. 7 Ju. 1623, p. m. Hutton
Peter Heylin, S. T. B. 1632, nom. by k. Cha. I.
Hamlet Marshall, S. T. P. 29 Aug. 1633
John Barwick, S. T. B. 1645, p. m. Marshall
Will. Sandcroft, S. T. B. 7 Dec. 1661, p. res. Barwick
Geo. Davenport, A. M. 23 Dec. 1664, p. res. Sandcroft
Robert Clarke, A. M. 1677, p. m. Davenport
Henry Bagshaw, S. T. P. 13 Dec. 1677, p. res. Clarke
George Wheler, knt, S. T. P. 15 Jan. 1709, p. m. Bagshaw
Thomas Secker, A. M. col. 12 Feb. 1723, p. m. Wheler
Rich. Stonhewer, A. M. col. 4 Jun. 1727, p. r. Secker
John Rotheram, A. M. col. 30 Oct. 1769, p. m. Stonhewer
Elected proctor with R. Fawcett, D. D. rector of Gateshead for the clergy of the archd. of Du
h. 1774. He published "The force of the Argument for the Truth of Christianity, drawn from a collective View of Prophesy," 1752.— This was in answer to Dr Conyers Middleton's Examination of the bishop of London's Discourses on Prophesy. An excellent performance.—" A Sketch of the one great Argument, formed from the general concurring Evidences for the "Truth of Christianity, 1754." In this ingenious tract he shews that a general harmony runs through the whole system of revelation.—"An Essay on Faith, and its Connection with good Works," 1766.—"An Apology for the Athanasian "Creed." &c.
Randal's MSS.
1343, 17 Edw. 3. Bulla sup' redd. eccl. de Houghton infra Dunolm. diocesin disponendis.
Rymer, tom. v. p.
391.
1375, 49 Edw. 3. Bulla de composico'e int' reg. & papa, &c.—
Ibid. tom. vij. p.
834.
1330, 4 Edw. 3. Contra Ambaldum card. ad conscientiam papae serenandam.—
Ibid. tom. iv. p.
455.
E. coph. book, E. p. 290, Halm. ap. Houghton, 17 Maij, Ao p. Laur. 8o 1463.
Tho. Asteley, cl. r'r eccl'ie p'oial de Houghton repit. de d'no 1 claus. juxta rec'oria ib. sicut modo in tres p'tes dividitur, &c. H'end, &c. p' termino vite ejusd. Tho. redd'o inde p' an. d'no epo 33s. 4d. & p'posito de Houghton p'tep'e existen. 3s. 4d. tam p' gramine quam p'faeno p' expens. equor. sen'li temp'e cur. emend, &c.—
Randal's MSS.
Halm. ap. Houghton, Ao p. Laur. 13o Lib. ibid. 1470.
Hen. Gillowe, cl. & r'r de H. &c. cepit de d'no quodd. vast. in co'i via sup' austral' fossam int. dom. d'ni Rob. Benet exp'te orientali & le Clayhole juxta metas exp'te occidentali continen. in longitudine lx virgat, & in latitudine viij virgat, &c.—
Ibid.
Shirburn dimisio, 1470.
De Hen. Gillowe, cl. p' p'cell terr. voc. Brentopetmore inclus, infra capu. vet'is Dun. &c.
Lib. K. p. 32. Halm. ten. ap. H. 10 Apr. Ao Cristofori primo, 1508.
Ad hanc curam venit Rob'tus Kent, cl. r'r, &c. & cepit de d'no iij clausur. quar. prima voc. Shepeclose, sc'da Rucheclosse & t'ia le Bradclosse, &c. necnon aliam p'cel. terr. inclusa in le Bradclosse voc. le Greve acre p'tin. officio p'positi dict. ville. H'end, &c. p'trib's supra dict. clausur. xl s. &c. & p' p'dict. p'cell terr. voc. Grevys acre vj s. viij d. Proviso semp' q'd p'dcus. R. r'cor d'ce eccl. & o'es succ. sui rectores d'ce eccl. deinceps supp'tobit o'ia on'a capital. sen'li ac cli'ci sen'li & eor. servient. in o'ib's viz. in cibis potu lect. necnon stabilum p' equis cum feno pane equino avena & stramine temp'e halmot. sub paena, &c.—
Ibid.
Ibid. lib. p. 264, Ao 1512.
Jurat. presentant q'd doctor Kent, r'cor eccl. de H. incrocliavit de ter. d'ni ad borial. p'tem ville ibid. & jac. ad terram suam xij d.
Rot. A. Tho. Card. No 96. Ind. facta Will'o Frankeleyn, cl. de tribus clausuris (Sheipclose, Rusheclose, & Braideclose) p' term. 99 ann.—
Ibid.
E. Bibliotheca Harleiana, No 1499, 23.
The arms of master Frankeleyng, archdeacon of Durham, gevyn to him for recoveryng ye castell of Norham of the Scotts hands by his prowess and pollicie. See Frankeleyn's letter to card. Wolsey, in Fiddes's Life, p 457, and in the Collections, p. 165.
Reg. Fox, p. 34. Instrumentum resignac'ois mag'ri Alex'i Lygh r'coris eccl. p'roch. de Houghton. Ibid. p. 35. Decretum an. pension. assign. resignanti.—
Ibid.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population from 1660 to 1679
1429
238
1161
1760 to 1779
1804
572
1518
Increase
375
234
357
Number of burials in the last year 70.— Computed number of inhabitants 2100.
By an accurate survey of the whole parish, taken by order of the present rector in the year 1783, it appeared there were within the parish
 
Males.
Females.
Total.
 
2392
2347
4739
By a like survey in the year 1786
2430
2467
4897
Increase
38
120
158
. About eighty years after Kelyng's time, Bernard Gilpin expended upon the rectory and out-buildings near three hundred pounds, as he informs us in his will; but the greatest improvements were made by Mr George Davenport, who continued rector from 1664 to 1677; he rebuilt the mansion-house and chapel at his own expence, as well as the garden walls, and repaired the offices.
The church stands on a rising ground †, in the center of a square area, formed by the buildings of the lower part of the town: It is in the form of a cross, with the tower in the center. The chancel is in length fourteen paces to the steps which ascend to the communion table, and within the rail four paces; the width six paces. It was some years ago wainscotted, and stalled on each side, probably by Mr Davenport; for on the north side is a shield bearing the arms of bishop
HOUGHTON HALL.
Cosin, and on the south side another bearing the arms of Davenport. The wainscot being much decayed, was removed by the present rector, and the chancel is now fitted up with plaister in an elegant stile. The stalls too, being much decayed, have been repaired. The east window, consisting of five lights, is under a pointed arch. There are beside five other windows in the chancel, one of four lights under a flat arch, three under pointed arches, divided by a small pilaster, and an adjoining one under a flat arch. The tower stands on four columns, giving an interior square of six paces, opening on every side to form the cross, and lead to the four limbs of the building. The nave is twenty-four paces in length from the pillars of the square, and has regular ailes formed by rows of three uniform clustered columns supporting pointed arches, which at the western extremity spring from pilasters of similar form with the pillars; the whole having great symmetry, and being of beautiful architecture. The width of the nave, with its ailes, is twelve paces. The side lights are regular, four on each side, and modern. The west window consists of five lights under a pointed arch. The reading desk is placed against the north west corner pillar, and the pulpit opposite to it. There is at present in agitation a plan for rebuilding the stalls and seating the church, many of which are now ruinous and much decayed; for removing the old organ, and introducing a new one in a gallery to be erected against the north wall of the church. The organ is placed in the south limb of the cross. The windows at the extremities of the cross are under pointed arches: One limb of this cross, but whether the north or south we cannot ascertain, is called Trinity porch. The nave is ceiled and stuccoed, and very clean.
There were two guilds instituted in this church, one dedicated to the Holy Trinity, the other to the blessed Virgin. In the records we find
Cop. Book, E. p. 394.
that Rob. Hudeson of Morton, with Rob. Smyth of Hoghton, and John Peerson, were fined on the 14th of November, in the twelfth year of bishop Laurence, 1468, for attempting to found a fraternity at Houghton, without the bishop's licence, contrary to the act of Mortmain: But the same bishop, in the nineteenth year of his pontificate, granted licence
Rot. A. Booth. No 70, 71.
to Henry Gillowe, clerk, Henry Radclyff,
esq
William Byrdon, prior of Fynkelehalgh, Edmund Saunderson, and Will. Rothom, to found
to the praise of God and honour of the most Holy Trinity, a guild, consisting of themselves and other persons of both sexes, in the parish church of Houghton, and to elect yearly from among themselves a master or custos, and to have a common seal, with power to plead and be impleaded, and to purchase lands, &c. to the yearly value of ten pounds, notwithstanding the statute of Mortmain.
Bishop Booth, in the nineteenth year of his pontificate, also granted to Henry Gillowe, clerk, Henry Radclyffe,
esq
William Rotham, and John Pany,
actuated by a spirit of piety and charity, to sound to the praise of God and the honour of the most Blessed Virgin Mary the mother of Jesus, a fraternity or guild.
There was also a chantry in this church dedicated to St Margaret and St Katharine: Yearly value 3l. 15s.
Henry Nollop, the last incumbent of St Mary's chantry, had a pension of 3l. p' annum, which he lived to receive in the year 1553.
The births of the several children of Sir William Belasis, of Morton-house, in the parish of Houghton-le-Spring, in the county of Durham, knight, by his wife Margaret Selby.
1. Mr Richard Belasis, born at Newcastle upon Tyne, on Easter Tuesday, April 14, 1612
2. Mrs Margaret Belasis, born at Whitehouse, on Friday June 4, 1613
3. Mrs Elizabeth Belasis, born at Morton, on Tuesday September 2, 1614
4. Mrs Mary Belasis, born at Morton, on Saturday August 30, 1615
5. Mrs Timothea Belasis, born at Morton, on Saturday December 7, 1616
6. Mr William Belasis, born at Morton, on Wednesday December 30, 1617
7. Mr Charles Belasis, born at Morton, on Monday February 15, 1618
8. Mr John Belasis, born at Morton, on Saturday January 22, 1619
9. Mr Brian Belasis, born at Morton, on Monday June 4, 1621
10. Mr George Belasis, born at Morton, on Tuesday December 24, 1622
11. Mrs Dorothy Belasis, born at Morton, on Monday December 22, 1623
Monuments and inscriptions in the church of Houghton-le-Spring, in the county of Durham.
On a brass plate over a raised monument, fixed in the south wall of the chancel, whereon are engraven the portrait of a woman and her twelve children, and also the arms of Belasis and Lilburne in pale.
Here under restithe the bodyye of Margery
Belassis wife to Richard Belassis of Henknol
Who had unto him vii sons and 4 daughters
Then she becominge widow so continued
The rest of her life the space of 58 years bestowing
her whole tyme onlye in hospitality
And releife of the poore and being of the
Age of LXXXX deceased the XX of August 1587.
Hic jacet Gulielmus Bellasys de Mortonhouse in comitatu Dunelm. Eques auratus. Qui uxorem duxit Margaretam filiam natu maximam, et unem cohaeredum Georgij Selby de Whitehouse in comitatu praedicto militis. Ex quâ quidem Margareta, sex filios et quinque filias procreavit, et postquam officium vice comitis hujus comitatus palatini Dunelm. sub tribus episcopis successive, et bis sub domino rege, episcopatu vacante, gesserat, hanc vitam pro meliore commutavit tertio die Decembris, Anno Domini 1641. Et aetatis suae 48. Dicta Margareta in piam charissimi conjugis memoriam hoc posuit monumentum.
On a mural monument, on the south side of the chancel.
H S E Henricus Bagshaw, S. T. P. Filius Edwardi de Morton-Putney In com. Northam. armigeri Ecclesiae Dunelmensis prebendarius Hujus rector Scholae Westmonasteriensis discipulus eruditus Exinde in aedem Christi promotus Omne literarum genus feliciter excoluit Utriusque collegij alumnus Erat In academia orator In urbe Londinensi concionator Celeberrimus Nec dicendi solum facultate inclarui
Sed sincero pictatis studio Simplici morum suavitate Atque insigni modestia Omnium sibi animos divinxit Acutos non unius morbi dolores Infracto animo diu perpessus Fidei & spei plenus E vita placide excessit Dec. die 30, An. Dom. 1709. Aet.
7 Reliquit Filium unicum Edwardum Et filiam unicam Prudentiam Quae Testamenti curatrix Patri optimo monumentum hoc posuit Juxta sepulae sunt Et Maria uxor Quae obiit Oct. 10, An. Dom. 1703. Aet. 47 Et quatuor filiae infantes.
On a flat monument of black marble in the chancel.
"Here lyeth the body of the reverend and charitable Mr George Davenport, late rector of this church, who died July the 6th, 1677. He rebuilt the parsonage house, the chapel, and the walls about the gardens, and repaired the out-houses. He built one half of the hospital in the church-yard; and bequeathed for the maintenance of 3 poor people in it 160l. also 40l. to the poor stock, and 10l. to be given to the poor at his funeral. He was a great benefactor to the Bough church, and gave 70 manuscripts to the bishop's library in Durham.
If the soul's transmigration were believed
You'd say good Gilpin's soul he had received,
And with as liberal hand did give, or more,
His dailie charity unto the poor,
For which with him, we doubt not he's possest
Of righteous mens reward, eternal rest.
The righteous shall be in eternal
Remembrance
Ps. 112.6."
N. B. The arms are similar to those of the family of Davenport in Cheshire, as blazoned in King's Valeroyal.
At the upper end of the south transept is a table or altar monument of free stone, over part whereof is erected a low gallery, belonging to the estate of Hetton-on-the-Hill. At the west end of the monument the following inscription is cut in raised characters▪ divided by an escutcheon, on which is relieved a boar resting against a tree, with a crescent cut on the side of the boar; the upper part of the escutcheon is very plainly to be seen, but the under part not come at without difficulty.
BERNERDs GILPIN RE CTOR HV IVS ECCLIOE OBIIT QVA RTO DIEM ARTII AN. DOM. 1583.
Gilpin's tomb adjoins to an altar tomb, on which lies the effigy of a man in armour, with a shield on his left arm; there is no inscription to denote what personage was interred here, but tradition reports this is the tomb of Sir John Le Spring, knight, of an ancient resident family that had taken the local name De le Spring. Collyns, in the 3d volume of his Peerage, page 244, gives the following account of the same figure:
In the church at Houghton is yet remaining a figure of a knight in armour, in a praying posture, with his sword by his side, reposing his head on a cushion, and at his feet a lion. This is said to be for Sir Rowland Belasise, (of Bewley, knt) knighted at the battle of Lewes in Sussex, 48th king Henry III. when the king was taken prisoner by Simon Montfort earl of Leicester, and other barons.
On other stones.
Here lyes interred the body of Nicholas Conyers,
esq
high sheriff of this county, chief of the family of the Conyers of the house of Boulby, in Yorkshire. He dyed at South Biddick, March 27, 1686. His age 57.
See here his dust shut up, whose generous mind
No step before in honours path could find:
Truth, faith, and justice, and a loyal heart,
In him shewed nature, which in most is art.
Here lyeth the body of Major Tho. Lilburne, who was one of the instrumental persons in his majesty's happy restoration. He departed this life the 25th of March, Anno Domini 1665.
The reader perhaps expects some short anecdotes in this place, of that excellent man Bernard Gilpin; we have selected several particulars given by William Gilpin, A. M. of Queen's College, Oxford, and others his biographers.
Bernard Gilpin, descended from a good family in Westmoreland, was born at Kentmire in that county, in the year 1517
His father's elder brother was slain in the battle of Bosworth field, being heir in the fifth descent to Richard Gilpin, who in the reign of king John was enfeoffed in the lordship of Kentmire-hall, by the baron of Kendal, for his singular services.
. From his earliest youth he was inclined to a contemplative life; was thoughtful, reserved, and serious. His first years were spent at a public grammar school, from whence, at the age of sixteen, he was removed to Oxford, and entered upon the foundation at Queen's College. He applied himself closely to his studies, and made a considerable proficiency in the learning of the times. Having determined to study divinity, that he might read the scriptures, he set out with great industry to gain a thorough knowledge of the Greek and Hebrew languages, in which he was much assisted by Mr Neal, a fellow of New College, and afterwards professor of Hebrew in Oxford.
At the usual term he took the degree of master of arts, and about the same time was elected fellow of his college: But shortly after, on account of his learning, was made choice of among those who were appointed to supply the college newly founded by Cardinal Wolsey, and to which he was accordingly removed.
As Mr Gilpin was bred in the Roman Catholic religion, he continued a considerable time steady to that church, and in defence thereof held a disputation against Hooper, afterwards bishop of Worcester, in the reign of Henry VIII. But when Edward VI. mounted the throne, Peter Martyr went to Oxford, and there read divinity lectures in a strain to which the university had been little accustomed. Mr Gilpin's credit in the university was become considerable, the Popish party were therefore very solicitous to engage him to side publicly with them; and when they made the most pressing applications to him for that purpose, they found his zeal much cooler than their own. He was not indeed satisfied with the Reformers, having had few opportunities of making himself acquainted with their arguments: But on the other hand he never was bigoted in his religion. While his mind was in so unsettled a condition, he thought himself but ill qualified to espouse either side publicly. Such importunity was however used with him, that at length he yielded, and appeared next day against Peter Martyr.
Mr Gilpin entered into the controversy against his inclination: He resolved to lay aside, as much as possible, the temper of a caviller, and to place truth before him as the sole object of his pursuit, from which he was determined not to be drawn aside either by prejudice or novelty. The disputation was therefore soon over; for Mr Gilpin had nothing of that pride of heart which leads men to defend suspected opinions, but gave up his cause with that grace which always attends sincerity. He owned publicly that he could not maintain it, and determined to enter into no more controversies till he gained full information of the subject
Peter Martyr took notice of this difference of behaviour, and frequently said, that he was not much troubled either for Weston, Morgan, or the rest, (Gilpin's fellow disputants)
but as for that Gilpin, (said he) I am very much moved concerning him; for he doeth and speaketh all things with an upright heart. The rest seem to me to be men who are carried away as it were with every blast of ambition and covetousness. But Gilpin, resting firmly upon gravity and manners, and the testimony of a most laudable life, seemeth to honour with his own goodness the cause which he undertaketh.
Martyr would likewise tell his friends, that it was the subject of his daily prayers, that God would be pleased to touch the heart of this pious priest with the knowledge of true religion.
. He communicated some of his doubts to bishop Tunstall, who was his mother's uncle, and had always expressed great regard for him, and also conferred with Dr Redman
Dr J. Redman, or Redmayne, was nearly related to bishop Tunstall, and eminently distinguished for his learning, the interests of which he greatly promoted at Cambridg by his influence and example. Mr Ascham, in his Schoolmaster, says,
At Cambridge, in St John's college, in my time I do know, that not so much the good statutes, as two gentlemen of worthy memory, Sir John Cheke and Dr Redman, by their own example of excellency in learning, of godliness in living, of diligence in studying, of councel in exhorting, by good order in all things, did breed up so many learned men in that one college of St John's at one time, as I believe the whole university of Louvain in many years was never able to afford.
, of whose virtue and learning he had formed an high opinion.
As an academic life afforded the most leisure for study, so Mr Gilpin was most inclined thereto: He had too just a sense of the duty of a clergyman to be unacquainted with the qualifications requisite for its discharge, and too mean an opinion of himself to think he was yet master of them: He judged more learning was necessary in that controversial age, than he had yet acquired; and his chief argument with his friends, who were continually soliciting him to leave the university, was, that he was not yet sufficiently instructed in religion himself, to be a teacher of it to others. These thoughts continued him at Oxford till the thirty-fifth year of his age; but about that time the vicarage of Norton, in the diocese of Durham, falling vacant, his friends prevailed upon him to accept it, though not without much difficulty. Accordingly a presentation passed in November, 1552. But before he took possession of his benefice, he was appointed to preach before king Edward VI. who then resided at Greenwich; Sir William Cecil having obtained for him a general licence for preaching.
Mr Gilpin having staid some time in London, repaired to his parish, and immediately entered upon the duties of his function. He failed not as occasions offered, to use the king's licence in other parts of the country; but his own parish he considered as the place where his chief care was due. Here he made it his principal endeavour to inculcate moral virtue, and to dissuade from those vices which he observed most prevalent. He seldom handled controverted points, being afraid, lest endeavouring to instruct, he might mislead. At length he thought he had engaged too soon in his office, and that he could not properly discharge the duties of it; his mind was not satisfied, whilst he merely gave his hearers moral instructions, overspread as the country was with disputed articles of faith, and he conceived he acted improperly in pretending to be a teacher of religion, if he was unable to oppose the prevalent errors. These thoughts made every day a greater impression upon him, and at length growing quite unhappy, he wrote an account of his situation of mind to bishop Tunstall, who was then in the Tower. The prelate thereupon advised Mr Gilpin to provide a trusty curate for his parish, and to spend a year or two in Germany, France, and Holland, by which means he might have an opportunity of conversing with some of the most eminent professors, both Protestants and Papists. This advice gave Gilpin much satisfaction; for a conference with some of the learned men abroad was what he had long earnestly desired. His principal objection to the scheme was, that it would prove too expensive: But as to that, Tunstall wrote to him, that his living would do something towards his maintenance, and he would supply deficiences. This, however, did not remove the difficulty; Mr Gilpin's notions of clerical duty were so strict, that he thought no excuse could justify non-residence for so considerable a time as he intended to be abroad. He could not, therefore, think of supporting himself with any part of the income of his living. He was determined to go abroad, and resolved, if he staid the shorter time, to rely only upon his own frugal management of the little money he had, and to leave the rest to the bishop's generosity. Accordingly he resigned his living in favour of a worthy man, with whose abilities and character he was well acquainted, and then set out for London, to receive his last orders from the bishop, and to embark. The account of his resignation got to town before him, and gave Tunstall, who was anxious for his kinsman's thriving in the world, great concern. "Here are your friends," said he,
endeavouring to provide for you, and you are taking every method to frustrate their wishes: But be warned; by these courses you will presently bring yourself to a morsel of bread.
Mr Gilpin begged the bishop would attribute what he had done to a scrupulous conscience, which would not permit him to act otherwise.
Before he took leave of the bishop, the latter put into Mr Gilpin's hands a treatise he had written upon the Eucharist, desiring he would cause it to be printed under his inspection at Paris. Soon after which he embarked for Holland, and upon his landing, went immediately to Mechlin, to visit his brother George, who was at that time pursuing his studies there. But after a few weeks he went to Louvain, where he resolved to settle for some time. He made frequent excursions to Antwerp, Ghent, Brussels, and other places in the Low Countries; where he spent some weeks with men of reputation, who held both sides of the controversial tenets; but he made Louvain his chief place of residence, for which city he always expressed a more than common affection. Louvain was then one of the most distinguished places for students in divinity; some eminent divines on both sides of the question resided there, and the most important topics of religion were discussed with great freedom.
Mr Gilpin's first business there was to get himself introduced to those of eminence for learning; to whom his own address and attainments were no mean recommendations. He was present at all public readings and disputations; committed every thing material to writing; re-examined all his opinions; proposed his doubts in private to his friends; and in every respect made the best use of his time.
Whilst he was thus prosecuting his studies, he and the Protestants in those parts were alarmed with the melancholy news of the death of king Edward, the unsuccessful attempt in favour of lady Jane, and the accession of queen Mary: But it came attended with one agreeable circumstance; an account of bishop Tunstall's release from the Tower, and re-establishment in his bishopric. Soon afterwards Mr Gilpin received a letter from his brother George, intreating him to come to Mechlin, to confer on an affair of importance. On his arrival he found his brother had received a letter from the bishop, informing him, that he had found a benefice of considerable value vacant in his diocese, which he wished he could persuade his brother Bernard to accept, imagining he might by this time have got over his former scruples: And accordingly George used his utmost endeavours for this purpose, but without effect; Bernard continuing inflexible in his resolution, not to accept of any benefice without discharging the duties of it. He therefore returned to Louvain; but, however, thought it incumbent on him to give the bishop his reasons for not accepting his kind offer. The bishop was not offended at this letter; for the unaffected piety of it disarmed all resentment, and led him rather to admire a behaviour, in which the motives of conscience shewed themselves so superior to those of interest.
Mr Gilpin continued some time longer at Louvain, daily improving in religious knowledge. But while he staid in the Low Countries, he was greatly affected with the melancholy sight of crouds of his dejected countrymen arriving daily in those parts, to avoid the bloody persecution then carrying on in England. It gave him, however, some pleasure to find, though he was unable personally to assist them, yet his acquaintance in the country furnished him with the means of being useful to many of them by his recommendations.
When he had been about two years in Flanders he left Louvain, and went to Paris, where his first care was printing the bishop's book, which he performed entirely to his satisfaction. During his stay at Paris he lodged with Vascosan, an eminent printer, to whom he had been recommended by his friends in the Netherlands. This learned man shewed him great regard, did him many friendly offices, and introduced him to the most considerable persons in the city.
Mr Gilpin having spent three years abroad, returned into England in 1556, whilst the persecution was still carrying on against the Protestants. Bishop Tunstall received his kinsman with great kindness, and soon after his arrival gave him the archdeaconry of Durham, to which the rectory of Easington was annexed. He immediately repaired to his parish, where he preached with great boldness against the vices, errors, and corruptions of the times; and by virtue of his office of archdeacon, he also took great pains to reform the manners of the clergy. His free reproofs soon roused the ecclesiastics of those parts against him, and put them upon every method in their power to remove so inconvenient an enquirer. The popular clamour amongst them was, that Gilpin was an enemy to the church, a scandalizer of the clergy, and a preacher of false doctrines; and that religion must suffer from the heresies he was daily uttering, if he was suffered any longer
Some found great fault, for that I preached repentance and salvation by Christ; and did not make whole sermons, as they did, about transubstantiation, purgatory, holy water, images, prayers to saints, and such like.
An account of the family of
GILPINS,
from a paper in the hands of Mr Rob. Sober, of Sherburn, near Durham, without date.
Randal's MSS.
Will. Gilpin
**** d. of Tho. Acay, bailiff of Kentmore
Richard
**** d. of Fleming of Rydale
William
Eliz. Lancaster
Daughter of Thomas Lancaster of Socbred, whose ancestor was baron of Kendal.
Richard
Doro. Thornborowe
Daughter of Sir Rowlande Thornborowe, knight, of Rampsele.—He had a daughter married Ducket, and another married Sir Henry Bellingham.
William slain at Bosworth field
Enwine
Daughter of Thomas Layton,
esq
of Delmaine. He had several sons, Anthony, Thomas, Sir William, Sir Bryan, Sir Cuthbert, Sir Richard, all famous men and warriors, some of them knights of Rhodes. Also several daughters, who intermarried with Redman, Carleton, Clyborne, Vaux.
Mar. Layton
William
Eliz. Washington
George
They intermarried with Gilpins, Laytons, Whartons, Cowpers, Caireses, Bensons, and Mallorys. George, at the time of making out the pedigree, is said to be living and owner of the ancient house of the Gilpins, Kentmore hall.
William
**** Sandforth
George
2d son
3d son
4th son
5th son
6th son
7th son
3 daughters
George
Randall
Bernard of H. le Spring
Richard
Cecily m. Maude
Mary m. Wharton
Margaret m. Selthorp
*** 2d wife
Randall
Sykes
Richard
John
Francis
George
Bernard
2 daughters
Thomas
Edward
Oliver
1st daugh. m. Bellingham
2d daugh. m. Askewe
3d daugh. m. Aglonbie
John
Robert
Margaret
Isabella
. In short, a charge of heresy, consisting of thirteen articles, was drawn up against him, and he was accused in form before the bishop of Durham. But Tunstall, who was much practised in the world, easily found a method of dismissing the cause in such a manner as to protect his nephew, without endangering himself. The malice of his enemies could not rest, and they created him so much trouble, that not being able to undergo the fatigue of duty, he begged leave of the bishop to resign either the archdeaconry or his parish, which his lordship thought fit: To which the bishop answered, that the income of the former was not a support without the latter, and that he could not consent to their being separated. Upon this Mr Gilpin resigned both of them; but the bishop soon after presented him with the rectory of Houghton-le-Spring.
This extensive rectory, containing no less than fourteen villages, had been as much neglected in that dark age, as the cures in the north then generally were. All ancient customs and ceremonies were carried higher than in most other places, and were considered as the essentials of religion. And it is said, through the designed neglect of bishops and justices of the peace, king Edward's proclamations for a change of worship had not even been heard of in this part of the kingdom, at the time of that prince's death.
Such was the condition of the parish of Houghton when it was committed to the care of Mr Gilpin; described by his biographers and other writers, to be then a waste so miserably uncultivated, that the greatest industry seemed necessary to bring it into any kind of order; and the greatest resolution was requisite in the attempt. But when the good of mankind was concerned, this true christian minister had resolution to attempt whatever industry could accomplish. He was grieved to see ignorance and vice prevail: But he did not despair. The people crouded about him, and heard him with great attention, perceiving him to be a teacher of a very different kind from those to whom they had been accustomed.
When Mr Gilpin took possession of Houghton, he found the parsonage-house gone so to decay, that he could not reside in it; part of it was sitted up as soon as possible for his reception, but he continued improving and enlarging it till it became suitable to his hospitable temper, a proper habitation for a man who never intended to keep what he had, to himself. Soon after his acceptance of the rectory of Houghton, Tunstall urged him to accept of a stall then vacant in the cathedral church of Durham, telling him, that there lay not the same objection to this as to the archdeaconry, it being quite a sinecure, and therefore he would have no reasonable pretence for refusing it. But Mr Gilpin, unwilling to accept it, told the bishop, that by his bounty he had already more wealth, than, he was afraid, he should give a good account of. He begged, therefore, he might not have an additional charge, but that his lordship would rather bestow this preferment on one by whom it was more wanted.
Mr Gilpin now lived in a retired manner, and gave no immediate offence to the clergy; the experience he had of their temper made him more reserved. Indeed he used more caution than he could afterwards approve; for in his future life he would often tax his behaviour at this time with weakness and cowardice. But all his caution was ineffectual; for he was soon formally accused before the bishop of Durham, who again found means to protect him. The malice of his enemies succeeded in part; for Tunstall's favour from this time visibly declined, and he struck him out of his will, of which he had before made him the executor. This loss gave Mr Gilpin little concern: He was sorry, indeed, to see the bishop disgusted; he acknowledged his great obligations to him; and would have given up any thing to have him satisfied, except his conscience. But good conscience, he was assured, was his best friend; and he was resolved not to part with it for any mortal friend upon earth.
His enemies, in the mean time, were not thus silenced. Enraged at this second defeat, they caused thirty-two articles to be drawn up against him in the strongest manner, and laid before Bonner bishop of London. Here they went the right way to work: Bonner was a man suited to their purpose; and accordingly gave immediate orders for his apprehension. Mr Gilpin being no stranger to the burning zeal of the bishop of London, had no sooner notice of the persecution, than he prepared for martyrdom: He caused a long garment to be provided, that he might go in the more decent manner to the stake, and set out for London. In his way thither he broke his leg, which put a stop for some time to his journey. The persons in whose custody he was, it is said, took occasion from thence maliciously to retort upon him an observation that he would frequently make,
that nothing happens unto us but what is intended for our good,
asking him, whether he thought his broken leg was so intended? He answered meekly, he made no question but it was: And indeed so it proved in the strictest sense; for before he was able to travel, queen Mary died, and he was set at liberty. Whether all the particulars of this story are true or not, thus much however is certain, that the account of the queen's death met him upon the road, and put a stop to any further prosecution.
Mr Gilpin being thus providentially rescued from his enemies, returned to Houghton, through crowds of people, expressing the utmost joy, and blessing God for his deliverance. The following year he lost his friend and relation bishop Tunstall; but he soon experienced, that worth like his would naturally procure friends. When the popish bishops were deprived, the earl of Bedford recommended him to queen Elizabeth for the bishopric of Carlisle, and took care that a congé d'elire should be sent down to the dean and chapter for that purpose: But Mr Gilpin declined this promotion; and when much pressed to assign his reasons for refusing it, he said, that if any other bishopric but Carlisle had been offered to him, he possibly might have accepted it:
But in that diocese (said he) I have so many friends and acquaintance, of whom I have not the best opinion, that I must either connive at many irregularities, or draw upon myself so much hatred, that I should be less able to do good there than any one else.
Mr Gilpin persisting in his refusal, the bishopric was at length given to Dr Best. The year after he had an offer made him of the provostship of Queen's College in Oxford; which he likewise declined.
In the mean time Gilpin continued to reside at Houghton, discharging the duties of his function in the most exemplary manner. When he first took upon himself the care of a parish, he laid it down as a maxim, to do all the good in his power there; and accordingly his whole conduct was only one streight line drawn to this point. He set out with making it his endeavour to gain the affections of his parishioners. Many of his papers shew how material a point he considered this. To succeed in it, however, he used no servile compliances: He studied that his means should be good as well as his end. His behaviour was free without levity, obliging without meanness, and insinuating without art. He condescended to the weak, bore with the passionate, and complied with the scrupulous; and in a truly apostolic manner, "became all things to all men." By these means he gained upon his neighbours, and convinced them how heartily he was their friend.
To his humanity and courtesy he added an unwearied application to the instruction of those under his care. He was not satisfied with the advice he gave in public, but used to teach in private; and brought his parishioners to come to him with their doubts and difficulties. He had a most engaging manner towards those whom he thought well-disposed: Nay, his very reproof was so conducted, that it seldom gave offence; the becoming gentleness with which it was urged, made it always appear the effect of friendship. Thus, with unceasing assiduity, did he employ himself in admonishing the vicious, and encouraging the well-disposed, by which means, in a few years, he made a greater change in his neighbourhood than could well have been imagined. A remarkable instance what reformation a single man may effect, when he hath the pious purpose earnestly at heart!
But his hopes were not so much in the present generation, as in the succeeding. It was an easier task, he found, to prevent vice than to correct it; to form the young to virtue, than to amend the bad habits of the old: He employed much of his time, therefore, in endeavouring to improve the minds of the younger part of his parish; suffering none to grow up in ignorance of their duty, but pressing it as the wisest part to mix religion with their labour, and amidst the cares of this life, to have a constant eye upon the next. He attended to every thing which he conceived might be of service to his parishioners. He was assiduous to prevent all law suits. His hall, it is said, was often thronged with people, who came to submit their differences to his judgment. He was not much acquainted with law, but could decide equitably, and that satisfied: Nor could his sovereign's commission have given him more weight than his own character. His hospitable manner of living was the admiration of the whole country. He spent in his family every fortnight forty bushels of corn, twenty bushels of malt, and a whole ox, besides a proportionable quantity of other kinds of provision. Strangers and travellers found in his house a chearful reception: All were welcome that came; and even their horses had so much care taken of them, that it was humorously said,
If a horse was turned loose in any part of the country, it would immediately make its way to the rector of Houghton's.
Every Sunday, from Michaelmas till Easter, was a sort of public day with him. During this season he expected to see all his parishioners and their families. For their reception he had three tables well covered: The first was for gentlemen, the second for husbandmen and farmers, and the third for day labourers. This piece of hospitality he never omitted, even at seasons when its continuance was rather difficult to him: He thought it his duty, and that was a deciding motive. When he was absent from home, no alteration was made in his family expences: The poor were fed as usual, and his neighbours entertained: And he was always glad of the company of men of merit and learning, who greatly frequented his house.
When lord Burleigh, then lord treasurer, was sent by queen Elizabeth to transact some affairs in Scotland, that celebrated statesman resolved, on his return, to pay a visit to Mr Gilpin. Amidst the hurry of this journey he could not resist the desire of seeing a man whose name was every where so respectfully mentioned. His free discourse from the pulpit to king Edward's court, had early recommended him to this noble person; from which time the great distance between them had wholly interrupted their acquaintance. Lord Burleigh's return was so sudden, that he had no time to give any notice of his intended visit. But the oeconomy of so plentiful a house as Mr Gilpin's was not easily disconcerted. He received his noble guest with so much politeness, and treated him and his whole retinue in so affluent a manner, that the treasurer would often say,
he could hardly have expected more at Lambeth.
While lord Burleigh staid at Houghton, he took great pains to acquaint himself with the order and regularity with which every thing was managed. The house contained a very large family; and was besides continually crowded with persons of all kinds, gentlemen, scholars, workmen, farmers, and poor people: Yet there was never any confusion; every one was conducted to a proper apartment, and entertained, directed, or relieved, as his particular business required. He could not but please this wise lord, who was so well acquainted with the effects of order and regularity in the highest sphere, to observe them even in this humble one. Here too he saw true simplicity of manners, and every social virtue regulated by exact prudence. The statesman began to unbend; and he could scarcely avoid comparing, with a kind of envious eye, the unquiet scenes of vice and vanity at which he was frequently present, with the calmness of this amiable retreat. At length with reluctance he took his leave; and with all the warmth of affection, embracing his much respected friend, told him,
He had heard great things in his commendation, but had now seen what far exceeded all that he had heard. If, added he, Mr Gilpin, I can ever be of any service to you, at court, or elsewhere, use me with all freedom as one you may depend on.
When he had got to Rainton-hill, which rises about a mile from Houghton, and commands the vale, he turned his horse to take once more a view of the place; and having kept his eye fixed upon it for some time, his reverie broke out into this exclamation:
There is the enjoyment of life indeed! Who can blame that man for not accepting a bishopric! What doth he want to make him greater, or happier, or more useful to mankind!
Mr Gilpin continued to discharge the duties of his ministerial office in the most conscientious, benevolent, and laborious manner. But notwithstanding all this painful industry, and the large scope it had in so extended a parish, he thought the sphere of his benevolence yet too confined. It grieved him to see in the adjacent parishes so much ignorance and superstition, occasioned by the shameful neglect of the pastoral care in the clergy of those parts. He was induced to supply, as far as he was able, what was wanting in others. For this purpose every year he regularly visited the most neglected parishes in Northumberland, Yorkshire, Cheshire, Westmoreland, and Cumberland; and that his own parish, in the mean time, might not suffer, he was at the expence of a constant assistant. In each place he stayed two or three days; and his method was, to call the people about him, and lay before them, in as plain a way as possible, the danger of leading wicked, or even careless lives; explaining to them the nature of true religion; instructing them in the duties they owed to God, their neighbour, and themselves; and shewing them how greatly a moral and religious conduct would contribute to their present, as well as future happiness.
As Mr Gilpin had all the warmth of an enthusiast, though under the direction of a very calm and sober judgment, he never wanted an audience, even in the wildest parts; where he roused many to a sense of religion, who had contracted the most inveterate habits of inattention to every thing of a serious nature. Whereever he came, he used to visit the gaols and places of consinement, few in the kingdom having at that time any appointed minister; and by his labours, and affectionate manner of behaviour, is said to have reformed many very abandoned persons in those places. He likewise employed his interest for criminals, whose cases were attended with any hard circumstances, and often procured pardons.
Redesdale and Tinedale, in Northumberland, of all barbarous places in the north, were at that time looked upon to be the most barbarous; before the Union, the common theatre where the Scots and English were continually acting their bloody scenes: Inhabited by a kind of desperate banditti, rendered fierce and active by constant rapine, warfare, and alarms; they lived by theft, and used to plunder on both sides of the barrier. In this dreadful country, where no man would then even travel that could help it, Mr Gilpin never failed to spend some part of the year. He generally chose the Christmas holidays for this journey, because he found the people at that season disengaged, and most easily assembled. He had set places for preaching, which were regularly attended. If he came where there was a church, he made use of it; if not, of barns, or any other large building, where crowds of people were sure to follow him, some for his instructions, and others for his charity.
The disinterested pains he took among those barbarous people, and the good offices he was always ready to do them, drew from them the warmest and sincerest expressions of gratitude. Indeed he was little less than adored among them. One instance that is related, shews how greatly he was revered: By the carelessness of his servant, his horses were one day stolen: The news was quickly propagated, and every one expressed the highest indignation at the fact. The thief was rejoicing over his prize, when by the report of the country he found whose horses he had taken. Terrified at what he had done, he instantly came trembling back, confessed the fact, and returned the horses.
We have already spoken of Mr Gilpin's generous and hospitable manner of living. The value of his rectory was about four hundred pounds a year: An income at that time very considerable, but yet in appearance very unproportionate to the generous things he did: Indeed he could not have done them, unless his frugality had been equal to his generosity. His friends, therefore, wondered to find him, amidst his many great and continual expences, entertaining the design of building and endowing a grammar school: A project, however, which his exact oeconomy soon enabled him to accomplish, though the expence of it amounted to upwards of five hundred pounds
The charter or letters patent granted by queen Elizabeth, 2d April, 1574, for founding Kepier school, in Houghton-le-Spring.
ELIZABETHA, Dei gra. Angliae, Franciae, et Hiberniae, regina fidei defensor, &c.
Omnibus, &c. salutem
sciatis q'd nos ad humilem petico'em fideliu. Johannis Heathe, de Kepier, in co. n'ro Dunelmi, arm. et Bernardi Gylpyne rectoris de Houghton in le Spring in dicto co. Dun. cl'ici schola grammaticali et domo eleemosynar. infra parochiam de Houghton, predictam erigendis et in perpetuum forte stabiliendis erigendis tam pro perpetua educatione, &c. pueror et juvinu. ibid. institutendorum quam pro sustentaco'e relevamine et victu pauperorum egenorum et infirmorum de g'ra n'ra, &c. volumus concedimus et ordinamus p' nob. &c. quod de cetero cel'o sit et erit in d'ca p'ochia de Houghton in le Spring una schola grammaticalis ac dom. eleemosynarum s'ie hospitali in honorem beatissimae Trinitatis que vocabitur libera schola grammaticalis ac domus eleemosynarum de Kepier in dicto co. Dun. &c. ac scholam & domum eleemosynarum predictam de uno magistro s'ie pedagogo et uno hypodidascalo seu subpedagogo e quibusd. pauperib. egems et infirmis perpetuo duratur. erigimus. &c. et ordinamus p' presentes.
Et ut intentio nostra predicta meliorem fortiatur, &c. volum
que
statuimus et ordinamus quod de caetero imposterum sint & erunt duo discreti et probi homines qui erunt et vocabuntur gub'natores dictae liberae scholae grammaticalis et domus eleemosynarum praedict. ac possessionum, &c.
Et ideo sciatis quod nos assignavimus, &c. et predictos Johannem Heathe et Bernardum Gylpyne fore et esse primos et modernos gubernatores dictae liberae sch. gramatical. ac dom eleemosynar. predicta ac omnium et singalor. possessionum, &c. durante vita naturali eor.
Et quod iidem gubernatores et succ. &c. sint et erunt unu' corpus corporatum et politicum imposterum ac cosdem gubern. et succ. suos per nomen gubernatorum liberae scholae gramatical. ac domus eleemosynarum de Kepier, &c.
Et ulterius volumus et ordinamus, &c. q'd iidem gubernatores, &c. et succ. sui habeant et habebunt successionem perpetuam et per idem sint, &c. habiles et in lege capaces ad h'endum perquirendum et recipiend. sibi et succ. suis, &c. maneria terras tenementa, &c.
Et ulterius volumus, &c. et co'cedimus, &c. presatis gubernatoribus et succ. suis quod he'ant commune sigillum, &c.
Et q'd i'pi gub'natores, &c. per nomen predictum possint et habiles sint placitare et implacitari, &c.
Et ulterius, &c. damus, &c. presatis gubernatoribus et succ. suis quod, &c. habeant et habebunt plenam potestatem et authoritatem de tempore in tempus eligendi deligendi no'iandi et appunctuandi pedagogum et hypodidascalum, &c. ac eosd. pedagogum et hypodidascalum amovendi ac alios magis idoneos seu alium magis idoneum in eor. seu eorum alterius loco sive locis loc'adi seu constituendi, &c.
Et ulterius, &c. co'cedimus prefato Joh'i Heathe ac heredibus suis ac Bernardo Gilpine rectori dicte eccl'e de Houghton le Spring, et succ. suis q'd &c. habeant et habebunt plenam potestatem et authoritatem de tempore in tempus durante vita eor. eligendi no'iandi et appunctuandi per script. suum sub sigillis suis duos probos discretos et habiles viros, &c. fore et esse gubernatores, &c. modo et forma subsequenti (viz) unum eorum fore et esse gubernatorem immediate post mortem predic'i Joh. Heathe, alterum vero eorum fore et esse gubernatorem immediate post mortem dicti Bernardi Gylpyne.
Et si contigerit alterum predictorum modernorum gubernatorum mori, nulla hujus modi electione, &c. q'd tum superviveus eor. ex assensu et consensu heredi's succ. ipsius sic prius morientis exinde habeat, &c. plenam potestatem et authoritatem de tempore in tempus durante vita sua naturali eligendi, &c. per scriptum suum sub sigillo suo unum probum idoneum et habilem virum fore et esse unum gubernatorem predictae liberae, sch. &c. loco et vice ipsius sic. prius morientis.
Et quod post mortem praedicti Johannis et Bernardi haeredes ipsius Joh. successores ip
ius Bernardi rectores, &c. in perpetuum habeant & habebunt plenam potestatem et authoritatem de tempore in tempus toties quoties necesse fuerit eligendi, &c. per scriptum suum sub sigillis suis gubernatores sive gubernatorem predictae libere scholae, &c. juxta suas discretiones suas, ac etiam gubernatores eosd. sic eligendos vel eorum alterum amovendi deprivandi sive expellendi de tempore in tempus toties quoties necessarium sive expeditum fuerit.
Et ulterius, &c. concedimus, &c. quod quando et quoties imposterum contigerit nullam hujusmodi elecc'oem &c. gubernatores sive gubernatorum predictae liberae scholae et fore sive esse infra tempus, &c. post mortem resignationem cessionem sive deprivationem alicujus gubernatori predictae liberae scholae, &c. quod tunc et toties ep'us Dun. et succ. sui pro illa vice tantum habeat & habebit plenam potestatem et authoritatem eligendi, &c. per scriptum suum sub sig. suo gubernatorem in loco et vice illius sic mortui resignati deprivati sive amoti et quod praedicti moderni gubernatores de tempore in tempus durante vitâ eor. naturali faciat et facere valeant et possint idonea et salubria statuta decreta et ordinac'oes in scriptis concernentia sive tangen. electionem moderationem gubernationem et directionem paedagogi et hypodidascali et scholarium libere scholae praedictae ac etium egenorum pauperum et infirmor. domus eleemosynar. p'dce et eor. cujuslibet tempore existente et stipendia et salaria eorund. pedagogi et hypodidascali ac omnia ab. quecun
que
eand. liberam sch. &c. pro continuatio. ejusd. scholae ac domus eleemosynar. predictae appu'ctuat. &c. assignat. &c. tangentia sive quocunque modo concernentia que quidem statuta decreta et ordinationes sic fienda concedimus, &c. inviolabiter observari de tempore in tempus perpetuum facerint. Et ulterius ut idem gubernatores, &c melius et uberius liberam scholam, &c. necnon sumptus et onera eor. manu-tenere et supportare valeant et possint, &c. dedimus et concessimus red. quibuscun
que
subdatis ligeis nostris, &c. maneria rectorias messuagia terras tenementas decimas redditus reversiones servitia possessiones revertiones ut hereditamenta quecun
que
ad annum valorem quinquaginta librar. vel minus infra parochiam de Houghton in le Spring in dicto co. Dunelmen. sen alibi, &c. ut alibi ubicun
que
infra dominationem et potestatem nostram presatis modernis gub. praedictae liberae sch. grammatical. et dom. eleemosynar. de Kepier ac possi'on. revertion. licite. et impune dare concedere vendere alienare assignare valeant et possint iisdem gubernatores et succ. suis, quod ipsi hujusmodi maneria rectorias terras tenementa decimas redditus reversiones servitia possessiones reventiones vel hereditamenta ad annum valorem quinquaginta librar. vel minus, de nob. hered. et succ. nostris aut de aliq. corpore corporato seu politico, aut de aliquib. subditis nostris licite et impune in posterum habere recipere et perquirere valeant et possint sibi et succ. suis in perpetuum similiter lic. dam. et concedimus specialiter statuto de terris et ten. ad man. mortuam non ponendis, aut aliquo al. statuto actu ordinatione seu provisione in contrarium inde, &c. non obstante.
In cujus rei testimonium has l'ras n'ras fieri fecimus patentes, teste me ipsa apud Gorambury sc'do die Apri. ao regni n'ri decimo sexta.
P' breve de privato sig. POWLE.
Gorambury, near St Alban's, the seat of Sir Nich. Bacon, lord keeper
1616, August 14th,—13th James I.—In the court of chancery at Durham.
John Heath,
esq
and Christ. Wharton, gentleman, governors of the free grammar school and alms house of Kepier, in the parish of Houghton, exhibited their bill against Thomas Chambers, gentleman, and others, alledging, that in right of the said school, they were seised of a portion of tithes of corn and grain, commonly called gilley-tithes, renewing within the townships of Cleadon and Whitburn, in the parish of Whitburn, let for 7l. yearly, praying that the defendants, who have confounded and converted the said lands to their own uses, may be compelled to make good the rent thereof, being and otherwise to be relieved in the premisses.
In answer, the defendants alledged, that the said portion of tithes, hath time out of mind, been taken only out of corn, renewing in three parcels of ground called the East Hall field, the West Hall field, and the Middle Hall held.
28 March, 13 James, A. D. 1616. Decreed by Sir Rich. Hutton, knt. serj. at law, and chancellor of the county palatine of Durham and Sadberge, that the governors should let the gilley-tithes to the defendants and tenants of the lands, out of which the gilley-tithes were issuing, for twenty-one years, for 6l. a year, payable at Pentecost and Martinmas.
An appointment of Francis Myddleton, of Offerton,
esq
to be a governor of Kepier school, in Houghton-le-Spring.
Know all men by these presents, that we John Tempest, of Sherburn, in the county of Durham,
esq
heir and successor of John Heathe, late of Kepier,
esq
in the same county, and Thomas Seckar, A. M. and rector of Houghton in le Spring, in the said county, do by these presents, elect, nominate, and appoint Francis Myddleton, of Offerton, in the said county of Durham,
esq
to be one of the modern governors of the free school and alms house of Kepier, in Houghton in le Spring aforesaid, in the room and place of John Spearman, late of Hetton in le Hole, in the said county of Durham,
esq
In witness, &c.
A rental of the rents, revenues, and possessions of the free school and alms house in Houghton-le-Spring.
 
£.
s.
d.
The gilley-tithes of Bishopweremouth, let commonly per annum
2
0
0
A yearly pension out of the parsonage of Gateshead
2
13
4
The like out of Whickham rectory
1
6
8
The like out of Ryton rectory
1
6
8
These tithes and pensions were granted by John Heath,
esq
at or about the time of the foundation.
 
 
 
A yearly pension out of the parish of Easington
2
3
4
The gilley-tithes of Chester, let in 1747 for (but are growing less and less)
4
16
1½
A rent charge in lieu of gilley-tithes, out of some lands in Cleadon
6
0
3
The gilley-tithes of Ryehope let coin's annis for about
5
0
0
These were purchased of John Heath by Bernard Gilpin, and by him granted to the school about the time of the foundation.
 
 
 
A rent charge out of Pensher, in the parish of Houghton
1
16
8
A rent charge out of Pelow
0
10
0
Purchased of Thomas Myllet by Bernard Gilpin, and by him granted to the school at the time aforesaid.
 
 
 
A house in Houghton, purchased by Bernard Gilpin, and granted to the school, let at 5l. per ann. subject to taxes, sesses, and bishops rent
5
0
0
A copyhold close in Wolsingham, purchased and granted as aforesaid, by Bernard Gilpin, and let at the yearly rent of
9
0
0
A pension out of the manor of Cocken, granted by Mr Wm Carr in or about the year 1570 of per annum
2
0
0
A garth in Ryehope for reception of tithes
0
6
8
A pension out of St Nicholas' in Durham, granted by John Heath
0
13
4
All these are of the original foundation, amounting to
44
13
0½
A cross fine in Houghton, being a rent charge out of Mr Lambton's lands in Houghton, long in possession of the school, but by whom or when given unknown, amounting yearly to
1
5
0
An annual rent charge out of the estate left by the will of Dr Bagshaw, rector of Houghton, date unknown
5
0
0
 
50
18
0½
A legacy left in money by the will of Sir George Wheler, knight, and which was laid out by (the bishop of Oxford) Dr Seeker, successor to Sir G. Wheler, in the rectory of Houghton, in the purchase of an estate at Renton, held by lease under the chapter at Durham, and let by the rector at 35l. per annum subject to large fines, out-rents, &c. one half of which is left to the school, and the other half to Davenport's hospital, but not paid by the rector to the school.
Masters of Houghton school.
Robert Copperthwaite, cl. A. B. was the first master
Ch. Ranson, oc. master by Gilpin's will in 1582
Anthony Aray, cl. A. M. 1607
Ralph Hawden, A. M. licenced 24 Sep. 1631
John Sage, cl. licenced 8 Dec. 1632
George Cant, licenced 26 April 1639
—Lever 1682
William Stobert, clerk 1686
Gilbert Nelson, clerk 1692
resigned 1737
Thomas Griffith, A. M. 1738
William Cooper, A. M. 1777
resigned 1786
—Fleming 1786
The statutes of the school.
It would be useless to incumber the work with a full transcript of the statutes; the following material parts must suffice:
When the schoole doth want a master the governors may send to Mr Provost of Queen's Col. Ox. and request him that he would procure some northerne man in any wise master of art, either in his own house or some other, &c.
Then follow rules for conducting the school, &c. and the restrictions upon the master,
inter al's,
He shall meddle with and occupy no other temporal livings, &c. shall let his gillie-tithes to the most advantage he can, provided that he shall not let his tithes above three years, reserving no less rent than with the rest belonging to him will make up yearly his 20l. wage; and also he shall not take any fine before hand. And if any other livings belong to him, he shall farm them forth to others, that they may be no hindrance to his teaching; yet if it so happen that he shall take any spiritual living, then he shall not have the benefit of his school above one year after his induction.
Then followeth an order touching the master's marriage, which is to be with the consent of both governors and two justices of the peace.
Rules concerning the usher follow in this place.
His election shall be wholly in the governors' hands, unless by special authority and direction unto the master there be power granted to him from the governors to choose,
&c.
There shall be one play day in a week, either Tuesday or Thursday, save only certain days in the spring, for the scholars to exercise their bowes, in matching either with themselves or strangers, in the Oxpasture or in Houghton-moor, &c.
At times of breaking up the scholars
must pay to their master every one a penny for
ferelatoc
silver, and none shall be inforced to give more, but upon their own good will.
"There shall be a register book, &c. which once a year shall be brought to the governors, &c." And then if the governors can charge the master or usher, by proof or testimony
of the country, by the church wardens of Houghton, by the gentlemen, of negligence in teaching, of misbehaviour, of breach of any statute, either to punish them by fine, &c. or otherwise, if their faults be intolerable and notorious, to expel them of their livings.
Item, there is further of the rents, &c. so much as will yearly find five poor scholars and three poor men or women, allowing them 7d. a week, 7d. over which may be divided, &c.
. His school was no sooner opened than it began to flourish; and there was so great a resort of young people to it, that in a little time the town was not able to accomodate them. He put himself, therefore, to the inconvenience of fitting up a part of his own house for that purpose, where he seldom had fewer than twenty or thirty children. Some of these were the sons of persons of distinction, whom he boarded at easy rates; but the greater part were poor children, whom he not only educated, but cloathed and maintained: He was likewise at the expence of boarding in the town many other poor children, several of whom he brought every year from the different parts where he preached, particularly Redesdale and Tinedale. For the maintenance of poor scholars, whom he sent to the universities, he yearly set apart sixty pounds. This sum he always expended, and often more. His common allowance to each scholar was about ten pounds a year, which for a sober youth was at that time a very sufficient maintenance, so that he never maintained fewer than six. By his will it appears, that at his death he had nine upon his list, whom he took care to provide for during their stay at the university.
As to his school, he not only placed able masters in it, procured from Oxford, but likewise constantly inspected it himself. And that encouragement might quicken the application of his boys, he always took particular notice of the most forward: He would call them his own scholars, send for them often into his study, and there instruct them himself. One method used by him to fill his school was a little singular. Besides those whom he sent from his own school to the universities, and there wholly maintained, he likewise gave to others, who were in circumstances to do something for themselves, what farther assistance they needed. By which means he induced many parents to allow their children a liberal education, who otherwise would not have done it. He considered himself as their proper guardian, and esteemed himself bound to the public for their being made useful members of it, as far as it lay in his power. With this view he held a punctual correspondence with their tutors; and made the youths themselves frequently write to him an account of their studies. So solicitous indeed was he about them, that once every year he made a journey to the universities, to inspect their behaviour. And this uncommon, care was not unrewarded; for many of his scholars became ornaments to the church, and exemplary instances of piety
Among those of note who were educated by him, these three are particularly mentioned; Henry Ayray, George Carleton, and Hugh Broughton.
Henry Ayray became afterwards provost of Queen's College in Oxford; where he was in great esteem for his abilities, and exemplary life.
George Carleton was a man of worth and learning, and very deservedly promoted to the See of Chichester. He published several pieces, which are enumerated by Anthony Wood, and in particular the life of his benefactor Bernard Gilpin.
Hugh Broughton was a very learned man, and particularly skilled in rabbinical learning. Broughton is said to have been so laboriously studious, that unless he were prevented by something very extraordinary, he studied twelve or fourteen hours, and often sixteen hours a day. He had a contest with Theodore Beza. He died in 1662, as we are told by the famous Dr Lightfoot, who declares himself a child in comparison of this great master of Hebrew and rabbinical learning, and mentions an offer that was once made to him of a cardinal's hat.
.
Every Thursday throughout the year he caused a very large quantity of meat to be dressed, wholly for the poor; and every day they had what quantity of broth they wanted. Twenty-four of the poorest were his constant pensioners. Four times in the year a dinner was provided for them, when they received from his steward a certain quantity of corn, and a sum of money; and at Christmas they had always an ox divided among them.
In the distant parishes where he preached, as well as in his own neighbourhood, his generosity and benevolence were continually shewing themselves; particularly in the desolate parts of Northumberland.
When he began his journey, (says an old manuscript life of him) he would have ten pounds in his purse, and at his coming home he would be twenty nobles in debt, which he would always pay within a fortnight after.
In the gaols he visited he was not only careful to give the prisoners proper instructions, but used also to purchase for them such necessaries as they wanted.
Of his benevolent temper the following instance is preserved. One day returning home, he saw in a field several people crowding together, and judging something more than ordinary had happened, he rode up, and found that one of the horses in a team had suddenly dropped down, which they were endeavouring to raise, but in vain, for the horse was dead. The owner of it seemed much dejected with his misfortune; and declaring how grievous a loss it would be to him, Mr Gilpin bade him not to be disheartened; "I'll let you have," says he,
honest man, that horse of mine,
and pointed to his servant's. "Ah! master," replied the countryman, "my pocket will not reach such a beast as that."
Come, come,
said Mr Gilpin,
take him, take him; and when I demand my money, then thou shalt pay me.
Towards the latter part of his life, Mr Gilpin went through his duty with great difficulty. His health was much impaired; for the fatigue he had undergone so many years had broken his constitution. Thus he complains in a letter to his friend:
To sustain all these travels and troubles I have a very weak body, subject to many diseases; by the monitions whereof I am daily warned to remember death. My greatest grief of all is, that my memory is quite decayed: My sight faileth; my hearing faileth; with other ailments, more than I can well express.
While he was thus struggling with an advanced age, and much impaired constitution, there happened a very unfortunate affair, which entirely distroyed his health. As he was crossing the market-place at Durham, an ox ran at him, and pushed him down with such violence, that it was imagined the bruises he received would have occasioned his death. He lay long confined; and though he again got abroad, he never recovered the little strength he had before, and continued lame as long as he lived. But sickness was not the only distress which the declining years of this excellent man had to struggle with. As age and infirmity began to lessen the weight and influence he once possessed, the malice and opposition of his enemies prevailed more: And he experienced much ingratitude and ill usage, at a time when he was already sinking under a weight of cares.
His pious resignation under such evils was not long exercised. About the beginning of February, 1583, finding himself very weak, and sensible his end must be drawing near, he told his friends his apprehensions, and spoke of his death with that happy composure which attends the conclusion of a good life. He was soon after confined to his chamber; but his senses continued perfect to the last. A few days before his death he desired his friends, acquaintance, and dependents might be called into his chamber; and being raised in his bed, he addressed himself to them in a very pathetic manner, earnestly exhorting them to the practice of piety and virtue. He also sent far several persons who had hitherto made no good use of his advice, and upon whom he imagined his dying words might have a better effect. But his speech began to saulter before he had finished his exhortations. The remaining hours of his life he spent in prayer, and conversation with some select friends, mentioning often the consolations of Christianity; declaring they were the only true ones, and that nothing else could bring a man peace at the last. He died on the 4th of March, 1583, in the sixty-sixth year of his age.
He is described to have been tall of stature, slender, and hawk-nosed. In his diet he was temperate, or rather abstemious. His parts were good; his imagination, memory, and judgment lively, retentive, and solid. His acquirements were considerable; for by unwearied application he had gained so great a store of knowledge, that his biographers have said he was ignorant of no part of learning at that time in esteem. In languages, history, and divinity, he particularly excelled. He read poetry with a good taste; and was himself, according to bishop Charleton, no mean poet. His temper was naturally warm; and in his youth he sometimes gave way to passion; but at length he entirely corrected that infirmity. His disposition was naturally serious; yet among his particular friends he was chearful, and sometimes facetious. His general behaviour was very affable. His severity had no object but himself; to others he was humble, candid, and indulgent. He had extraordinary skill in the art of managing a fortune; looking upon himself barely as a steward for other people, and observing that his own desires should not exceed what calm reason could justify. Extravagance was considered by him as a species of injustice; and amidst his employments he found leisure to look into his affairs, well knowing that frugality is the support of charity. His intimacies were but few; for it was his endeavour, as the spirit of Christianity required, to dilate rather than to contract his affections: Yet where he professed a particular friendship, Mr Gilpin was a religious observer of its offices: Was the most candid interpreter of the words and actions of others. Where he plainly saw failings, would make every possible allowance for them: Used to express a particular indignation at slander; often saying, it more deserved the gallows than theft: Was remarkably guarded when he spoke of others; considering common fame as the falsest medium, and a man's reputation as his most valuable property: Ever displayed the greatest sincerity, as well as humility, in his transactions with others: But the principal virtues, and distinguishing parts of his character, were his conscientious discharge of the ministerial office, extensive benevolence, and exalted piety. The constant tenor of his life was so uniformly agreeable to the strictest rules of morality and religion, that it gained him among his contemporaries the title of the Northern Apostle. In his charitable distributions, he had no measure but the bounds of his income, of which the least portion was always laid out on himself: Was the more particularly careful to give away in his life time whatever could be saved for the poor, as he had often seen and regretted the abuse of posthumous charities.
It is my design, at my departure, (said he, writing to a friend) to leave no more behind me than what will serve to bury me, and pay my debts.
What little remained he left wholly to the poor, except a few slight tokens of remembrance bequeathed to his friends. His uncommon benevolence made him deservedly stiled the father of the poor
In the rebellion of the earl of Westmoreland, Mr Gilpin retired to Oxford, and in his absence the rebels who had possessed Durham, scattered themselves as far as Houghton, and seized his barns and cattle, the chief of the plunderers being a person whom he had saved from the gallows. On Mr Gilpin's return his intercessions saved from execution many of the poor deluded vassals, who bad followed their lords.
Extract from his will.
I give to my successor and his successors after him, first the great new brewing lead in the brew-house, with the guilefat, and math tub, likewise in the kiln a large new steep lead, which receives a chaldron of corn at once; likewise in the lard-house, one great salting tub, which will hold four oxen or more. I give to the poor of Houghton 20l. and nine of my oxen, the other nine I bequeath to my three executors.
.
Houghton school-house is pleasantly situated on a dry rising ground, in the church-yard, fronting to the west: The master's house adjoins it on the south
Extract from the will of Sir George Wheler, knight, rector of Houghton.
"And as to the arrears of rent, and all sum and sums of money, which shall be due at or after my decease out of my several spiritual promotions, I give and dispose thereof as follows: To the poor of the parish of St Oswald's in Durham, the sum of 20l. To the poor of the parish of Houghton-in-the-Spring, the like sum of 20l. And if it happens that there shall be any sum or sums of money remaining of the arrears of my said spiritual promotions, either in the dean and chapter's hands, parish of St Oswald's, or Houghton or any of them, over and above what is so bequeathed to be paid out of my said spiritual promotions, I bequeath all such sum and sums of money to my successor to the parish of Houghton aforesaid, in trust that he shall therewith buy a piece of land, or dispose of it to interest; the rent or interest of which I will shall be equally divided between the schoolmaster and usher of the said town of Houghton for the time being, and the poor of that part of the alms house which was built by my predecessor Mr Geo. Davenport, to be laid out in cloaths and other necessaries, as my said successor shall think fit."
N. B. At Sir Geo. Wheler's death there remained of his spiritual promotions, besides what he had bequeathed to be paid out of the said arrears, the sum of 589l. 2s. 1½d. and which was paid to Dr Seeker, the immediate successor in the rectory of Houghton, at different times whilst he was rector there, subject to the trust in Sir Geo. Wheler's will. Dr Secker did, with 586l. 13s. 4d. part of the said sum, and with the sum of 293l. 6s. 8d. the money of John Smailes, of East Rainton, maltster, making together 880l. purchase of John Brough, a farmhold in the township of East Rainton, for the remainder of a term of 21 years, holden by lease under the dean and chapter of Durham at the yearly rent of 2l. 13s. 4d.
15th Oct. 1726. John Brough, and William Brough his brother, a legatee named in the will of John Brough their father, assign the said lease and premisses to Dr Secker, and it being agreed upon the purchase, that two-thirds in value of the premisses should be allotted to Dr Secker in trust, the money advanced by him being two-thirds of the purchase money, and the rest of the premisses being one-third, should be allotted to John Smailes. Dr Secker, by an indorsement on the said assignment, dated the 29th July, 1727, declared that all that part of the premisses on the west side of the common lane leading to and from Durham, the mansion-house, barn, stack-garth, and fold, the east part of the house called the Redhouse, with the appurtenances were taken in Dr Secker's name, in trust for the school master and usher of the said town of Houghton.
. The school is well lighted, and fitted with convenient stalls from north to south. Over the door is the following inscription:
SCHOLA DE KEEPIER
Kepier, nigh Durham, as observed before, was the seat of the Heaths; and it is conjectured, in compliment to Mr Heath, this was called Kepier school.
AB ELIZ. ANGLIAE REGNINA
Ao MDLXXIV. FUNDATA
EX PROCURATIONE J. HEATH, AR.
ET B. GILPIN, RECT. ECCL. HOUGHTO.
Christ. Hunter, M. B. of Durham.
C. H. M. B. ALUMNUS POSUIT.
Ao MDCCXXIV.
A little way to the south of the schoolmaster's house, and on a line with it, is an hospital
Mr Davenport, as believed, left an estate for the maintenance of this hospital about the time aforesaid, of the annual value of 6l. 13s.
And Dr Bagshaw left a rent charge out of copyhold estates at Houghton, 2l.
A moiety of the Rainton estate, purchased with Sir Geo. Wheler's legacy, 2l. 13s. 4d.
There was a rent of 26s. 8d. paid out of the town chamber of Newcastle; but this benefaction has been lost many years ago.
Extract from the will of Dr Henry Bagshaw, rector of Houghton.
Whereas I have surrendered into the hands of the lord of the manor of Houghton aforesaid, according to the custom thereof, my two copyhold closes, situate lying and being in Houghton aforesaid, commonly called the Broad Meadows and Slipper Thorn, with the appurtenances, to the use of Mr Ra. Gowland and Mr Rob. Chilton, to hold to them their sequels in right and assigns with a defeazance underwritten, that the same was in trust, and to and for such uses, limitations, intents, and purposes as by my last will and testament in writing, or by my deed in writing, lawfully executed before credible witnesses, I should limit, devise, and appoint, as by the said surrender and defeazance may more fully appear. In pursuance thereof I do hereby devise, direct, and appoint, and limit, that the said Ra. Gowland and Rob. Chilton shall pay all the rents and profits arising out of the said closes that come to their hands within fourteen days after the receipt thereof in manner following, that is to say for ever, the clear yearly sum of three pounds to the principal schoolmaster of Houghton aforesaid, and the clear yearly sum of forty shillings to the usher of the same school for the time being, for the better maintenance of the said schoolmaster and usher. And my will is, that the yearly sum of forty shillings be given to Mr Davenport's part of the hospital of Houghton aforesaid, for ever, and the yearly overplus or profits of the said closes over and above the said sum of seven pounds per annum, and taxes and out rents, I will and hereby devise, that my servant Rob. Chapman shall enjoy the same during his life, and after his death, that the said overplus shall be yearly distributed at Christmas to the poor of the township of Houghton aforesaid. And my will is, that the said R. Chapman be tenant for life of the said two closes, so as he pay the clear sum of seven pounds yearly by half yearly payments, to the trustees appointed for these my charities, or by their order in such manner as before directed, over and above the bishop's rent, taxes, and charges of future surrenders; and that the same closes shall not be plowed but upon absolute necessity for the improvement thereof. And I do hereby direct, that when either of them the said Ra. Gowland or Rob. Chilton shall die, the survivor of them shall surrender the said two closes to the use of the then rector of the parish of Houghton aforesaid; and the governors of the school and hospital there, and the trust aforesaid, shall be and remain, and the premisses to be surrendered by the surviving trustee to the other two succeeding the deceased from time to time for ever on the trusts in this my last will and testament mentioned and declared concerning the same, and the charge of the said surrenders to be paid out of the overplus rent."
N. B. A surrender was never made by Mr Gowland, who survived Mr Chilton.
, erected for the reception of six poor people, and separated from the master's house on the north by a garden belonging to the school. The building is formed with a center and two wings; in the center are two chambers, and two in each of the wings. On the north wing is the following inscription:—
George Lilburne,
esq
built the moiety of this hospital at his own charge, and endowed it with ten pounds per annum for ever, for the maintenance of three poor people, Anno Dom. 1668
Out rents charged on houses in Sunderland.
.
At the west end of the south wing, and which is called Davenport's end, being founded by Mr George Davenport
Extract from the will of George Davenport, A. M. rector of Houghton.
17th Sept. 1676.—Geo. Davenport, by his will of this date, amongst other things gave to the poor of Wigston in Leicestershire, where he was born, 20l. to be added to the poor stock there. To the poor of the parish of Houghton 40l. to be added to their stock; and 10l. to be distributed amongst them at his burial or soon after: Then follow these words:
"Furthermore it is my will, that if I live not to endow the late built hospital at Houghton, with lands or other revenues of 10l. or thereabout yearly value, then my executors shall pay to the governors of Kepyer school and alms house the sum of 160l. to purchase lands, or a yearly rent charge of 10l. for the maintenance of three poor people. I will may be chose by the said governors, with the advice of the rector of Houghton, out of the poor inhabitants of the said parish of Houghton." He appointed his nephew John, son of Stephen, executor and residuary devisee, forbids all preaching at his funeral, and wills that his funeral expences should not exceed 20 marks.
, rector of this parish, is the following inscription.
All things come of thee, O Lord, and of thine own have we given thee
William Sharp, M. A. vicar of Sherburn in Dorsetshire, and a native of this parish, intended to be a considerable benefactor to this alms house. But finding his death approaching, and wishing to avoid the interference of the mortmain act, he desisted from his purpose of bequeathing a legacy to this and other charitable uses in his parish, and determined to leave his estate to a near relation, Miss Dorothy Spearman of Durham, with a paper containing hints of the several charities he had in view. But drawing up his will himself, without the help of a person skilled in the law, it appeared that Miss Spearman had only her life in the estate, and that it would pass at her decease to Mr Sharp's heir at law. This induced Miss Spearman, upon considering his several intended charities, and finding those to the alms house to be the most useful and considerable, with
generosity, immediately to purchase 600l, stock in the 3 per cent. consolidated annuities, and to settle it upon Mr Lilburn's end of the alms house, by which it is raised in value to an equality with the other parts of the alms house. This is recorded on a stone now fixed on the north end of the alms house, in the following terms:
The charitable intention of the reverend William Sharp, M. A. carried into effect by Miss Dorothy Spearman, his heiress by will, added to the revenues of the alms house 18l. per annum.
Houghton-in-the-Spring parish.
Book of rates.
Value of lands.
 
£.
s.
d.
£.
s.
d.
 
39
2
5½
5146
10
5
Grey's MSS.
Land tax at 4s. in the pound.
County rates at 6s. 8d.
Cocken
9
16
0
0
9
10¾
East and Middle Herrington
21
18
10
0
13
4
East Renton
17
4
0
0
16
8½
Eppleton
10
10
0
0
10
9
Houghton-le-Spring
54
5
0
2
2
3½
Hetton
13
6
8
1
1
5
Murton house, &c.
9
15
2
0
8
4½
Moor house
4
13
6
0
5
6¾
Moorsley
9
19
6
0
9
9
Little Eppleton
3
13
10
0
4
1
Newbottle
22
15
6
1
0
0
Offerton
15
4
10
0
15
0
Painsher
41
19
9
1
14
10
West Herrington
17
7
3
0
16
4½
West Rainton
26
11
0
1
1
10
Warden Law
7
16
8
0
8
0
Registered estates:
—Herrington, Matthew Smith 50l. Sir Richard Smith 60l.—Middle Herrington, Sir R. Smith 57l.—Low Marley, Sir R. Smith 10l.—
Mann's MSS.
Bishop's rents.
Newbottle
36
17
0
Warden Law
4
13
4
Middle Herrington
3
2
0
Houghton
36
6
7
Dean and chapter's rents.
East Rainton
23
14
4
West Rainton
27
3
10
Moor house
2
13
4
.
The order in which the several members of this parish are placed in the book of rates presents us with MORTON, there called
Murton House,
which gave a local name to the resident family in bishop Bury's time
Petrus de Morton, Ao Bury, 4o Inq. p. m.
Morton.
In Mortona sunt xvj firmarij qui tenent xxv bovat. unaqua
que
de xij acr. & reddunt xiij d. de unaqua
que
bovata, et operantur xx diebus in autumno cum j homine de unaqua
que
bovata et herciant viij diebus cum j equo de singulis ij bovatis. Et faciunt iiij porcationes sicut illi de Wardon; et quadragant. vj diebus bladum et faenum. Et faciunt viij ladas ad Dunolm. in anno vel viij ad Alclet. Et de unaqua
que
caruca. villae arant apud hoctonam j acr. et reddunt gallinas et ova sicut illi de Wardon.—
Boldon Buke.
Morton.
Terrae bond.
Willielmus Stephenson tenet j mess. et ij bovat. terrae. Bovat. contin. xij acr. redd. per annum xvi d. ad iiij term. usual. et vs. pro operibus; et unaqua
que
bovat. sol. operari xx diebus in autumno cum j homine, et herciat viij diebus cum j equo de singulis ij bovat. et facit iiij porcationes in autumno cum tota familia domus, excepta housewiva, et quadrig. vj diebus blada et faenum; et unaqua
que
bovat. villae atat apud Houghton dim. acr. terrae et facit viij ladas ad Dunolm. vel iiij ad Aukland, et reddit j gallin. ad festum natal. d'ni et v ova ad fest. paschae et cariabit d'no et senescallo suo et sacit opera ad molend. consueta in toto vj s. viij d.
Tho. Richardson et iij alii, &c. et faciunt et solvunt ut supra.—Iidem redd. &c. inter se xxij gallin. et ad fest. &c. xx / vx ova.
Terrae scaccarij.
Willielmus Stevenson, &c.—Iidem tenent. inter se medietat. molend. aquat. de Newbotill et redd. per annum pro portione sua et iiij bovat. in terrae de Heryngton ad iiij term. iiijli. vj s. viij d.
Tenentes dictae villae solv. annuatim pro operibus domin. quae solent solvere tenentib. de Newbotill. iiij s.
Et dicti tenentes redd. per ann. pro officio punder ad fest. natal. d'ni et pasch. xx gall. c ova.
Hatfield's Survey.
. By the Boldon Buke we observe, that those who held lands, &c. in Morton, were stiled
firmarij,
though they performed servile duties. There were sixteen of those farmers, who held twenty five ox-gangs of land, each ox-gang containing twelve acres, the rent being 8d. for each ox-gang. They wrought twenty days in harvest, with one man for each, and harrowed eight days, with one horse for every two ox-gangs: They made four portions like the tenants of Wardon, with all their families, except the housewife, besides the twenty days work in autumn, and they carted or led six days hay and corn, and carried eight loads yearly to Durham or Auckland of the lord's baggage. For every carucate of land, they plowed one acre at Houghton, and rendered for each ox-gang one hen and five eggs. In Hatfield's Survey they are called bond tenants, and the service of carriage is there explained to be either for the lord or his seneschal; and that they performed the usual work at the mill. The office of punder was executed among themselves, for which they paid annually xx hens and 100 eggs. The family of Lomley, in bishop Langley's time, held the manor of Morton, and Morton house was the seat of a family of Belasise
Inq. p. m. J. Lomley chiv. Ao 15 Langley.—A recovery against Sir J. Lomley, Morton inter al. Ao 15 Tunstall.—Pardon of alienation, 1 Aug. 1607, by fine from Sir John Lomley, lord Lomley, and Catherine his wife, to Geo. Smith, et al. Morton inter al.—
Rudd's MSS.
.
PENSHAW, or, as it is written in the ancient records, Pencher
Pencher.
Willielmus Besseth habet Pencher in excambium pro terra quam pater suus habuit in Middelham exceptis ducentis & septuaginta quatuor acris & dimid. tam de terra culta quam de mora quas de episcopo tenet. in capite pro quibus reddit quatuor marcas & pro quodam molendino duas marcas.
Risiduum autem villae tenet de Jordana de Scoū land de quo tenebat terram de Middilham.—
Boldon Buke.
For Hatfield's Survey, vide Houghton.
, is noted in the Boldon Book to be the property of William Basseth, who had the same in exchange for lands in Middleham, except 274 acres and a half of cultivated and moor lands, which he held of the bishop
in capite,
rendering four marks, and for the mill two marks: The rest of this vill he held of Jordon d'Escoland, of whom the exchanged lands of Middleham were held. Penshaw came to the family of Carlisles soon afterwards; for in the fifth of bishop Hatfield, by an inquisition taken on the death of Cecilia, the widow of Nicholas de Carlisle, it appears she died seised of the lands and tenements called Bernewell, of six marks rent, rendering this further service, that she should provide for the great chace one man and two greyhounds; and that she also held the whole vill of Penshaw, except the above lands of the heirs of d'Escoland. And thereby it is stated, that Robert the son of Hugh Carlisle was her heir, which Robert is named in Hatfield's Survey
Vide notes to Houghton.
. Roger de Esh held lands under the Carlisles
Inq. p. m. Rog. de Esh, chiv. 2 marc. & unius paris cirotecar. albar. Ao xo Hatfield, cor. R. de Bowes, vic. Dun.
Inq. p. m. Hugh de Carlisle, Ao 20 Hatfield, cor. W. de Meneville esc. in co. Dun.
. And in the twenty-fifth year of that prelate, the family of Lambtons had acquired lands there
Inq. p. m. Rob. son of Rob. de Lambton, William his brother and heir, Ao 25 Hatfield, cor. Wm de Meneville, vic. Dun.
; though the chief property remained in the Carlisles
Inq. p. m. Rob de Carlesle, Ao 5o Joh. ep. cor. W. del Bowes esc.—Inq. p. m. Rob. Carlesle ten. d'co d'no. E. in c. man' de Barnwell, cum p't & molendinum & stagnum sup' rivulum voc. Ellyngburn juxta Herington, &c. p'pin'quior. campo de Bedyk de t'ris cultis & mores p' hom. & sid. & s. inveniendi unum h'oiem cum ij leporijs ad magnam chaceam, &c. & villam de Pencher, &c.—Ao 19 Langley.—Inq. p. m. T. Karlele, Ao D'ni 1430, ded. & concessit Jacobo Aynsle & Rob'to Hete o'ia t'ras & ten. sua in Blackburn & sexies viginti & quatuor decim acras, &c. p'pinquiores campo de Bedick, &c. d'ni Dun. E. antecessoribus ipsius T. Karlele concess. &c. inter Neubotill & Pencher p'ut in quad. c'ta Hugonis quond. E. D. plenius declarat. &c. & ded. & concessit N'o Tremdon, &c. o'ia terras ten. &c. que idem Tho. h'uit in villis & campis de Pencher, Elencrost, Usserton, Dun. Grendon, & Hartlepoole, Ao 30 Langley.
, till the thirtieth of bishop Langley, about which time Roger Thornton obtained that family's possessions at Penshaw
Una cum bosco voc. Pencher wood q. ten. de Tho. Karlile. Inq. p. m. R. Thornton, & inq. p. m. Rog. Thornton, 14 Booth. Eliz. wise of Geo. Lomley heir.
, and the Lambtons the other part. In 1459
Inq. p. m. Joh. Carlesle mil. Ao 4 Booth. Inq. p. m. Tho. Lambton, &c. piscar. de Shiphaugh cum p'tin. in Pencher, Ao 16 Booth. Inq. p. m. Ao 4 Dudley, W. Lambton.
, we find a Sir John Carlesle, knight, who claimed under settlement, part of the ancient estate of Penshaw, and left a son and heir John; after which period that family is not named in the records before us.
A new chapel was built at Penshaw some time about the year 1754, and William Sisson, A. M. now living, was the first curate nominated thereto
Penshaw chapel.—First subscription 200l.—Queen's bounty 200l.—Second subscription 200l.—Queen's bounty 200l.—A lot 200l.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population from 1660 to 1779
345
1085
695
Number of Burials in the last year 33.—Computed number of inhabitants 990.
. The etymology of the name of this place is evident, being compounded of
Pen
and
shaw,
a woody mount or hill. This eminence is the property of General Lambton, and now bears oak and other timber on its skirts, and contains lime-stone and free-stone quarries, with several valuable mines of coal. The prospect from thence is extensive and noble, comprehending many of the chief objects in the eastern part of the county, with a beautiful tract of country towards the south and west, in which the city of Durham and Chester are particularly conspicuous.
SOUTH-BIDICK, the seat of Mrs Mary Lambton, lies on the banks of the river Were. By the Boldon Book it seems as if this manor had anciently appertained to the See of Durham; for it is thereby stated, that the villains of South-Bedic held their vill in firm, rendering five pounds rent, and providing eight score men at harvest, and thirty-six carriages to lead corn at Houghton. But in the second year of bishop Bury, by an inquisition taken on the death of Alianora de Colleye, it appears she died seised of the manor of South-Bedyk, juxta Newbotelle, held of the bishop
in capite,
by homage, fealty, and the quarter part of a knight's see, with suit at the county; so that it seems from thence the manor had been aliened from the See
South-Bedic.
Villani de South Bedic tenent villam suam ad firmam & reddunt quinq. libras & inveniunt viij
xx
homines ad metend. in autumno, & xxxvj quadrigat. ad quadrigand. bladam apud hoctonam.—
Boldon Buke.
For Hatfield's Survey, vide Houghton.
Inq. p. m. Ao 2 Bury, cor. vic. in pleno com. Dun.
. By Hatfield's Survey we find the manor had passed to two parceners, for it is therein set forth, that Robert Conyers, knight, and Richard de Burnynghill held the vill
Inq. p. m. Wm de Burnynghill, Ao 16 Hatfield, ap. Dun. cor. W. de Claxton esc.
, in which the record states,
there were villains as in the Boldon Book, but there were no services, which ought to be inquired of.
In the subsequent records the name is Biddick Water Ville. We find one moiety of the manor passed to the family of Dalden in the time of bishop Hatfield
Inq. p. m. W. de Dalden, who held jointly with Elianora his wife, and to the heirs of his body, a moiety of the manor of Biddick Water Ville. Ao 25 Hatfield, ap. Dun. cor. W. de Menevylle vic. Dun.
Inq. p. m. R. Conyers mil. who held a moiety of the manor in right of Alice his wife. Ao 3 Skirlaw, ap. Dun. cor. L. de Lomley esc.
Inq. p. m. Hugh de Burnynghill, who held a moiety, &c. with Johan his wife, by the grant of John de Eseby, chap. &c. Ao 16 Skirlaw, ap. Dun. cor. R. Conyers chiv. esc.
Inq. p. m. Alicia wife of R. Conyers chiv. Ao 2 Langley, ap. Dun. cor. P. de Lyndley esc.
Inq. p. m. Joan wife of Hugh de Burninghill. Ao 9 Langley, &c.
Licence to John Hedworth,
esq
to alien Michal-Bedyk, al's Bedykfurd, and South-Bedyk. Ao 1 Bainbrig.—
Rudd's MSS.
Pardon of alienation for Geo. Bowes,
esq
and his wife, to Henry Lyndley, of the manor of Bedyk Water Ville. Ao 12 Mathew.—
Ibid.
. In later years the manor was again united in the possession of the Hedworths, and after them of George Bowes,
esq
Of BURN, or BURNT MOORS, we find nothing memorable.
HETTON, or HETTON-LE-HOLE, the seat of the honourable Thomas Lyon, late belonging to the family of Spearman, an excellent mansion, though in a low sequestered situation. In bishop Hatfield's time this was the possession of the family of Brackenburys
Inq. p. m. Pet. de Brackenbury, who held jointly with Cecilia his wife, the manor of Hetton for life, with remainder to Thomas his son by his wife Agnes, under half a knight's fee, and service at the county, value 40l. Ao 4 Hatfield, ap. Dun. cor. W. de Mordon vic.
Inq. p. m. Cecilia. Ao 25 Hatfield, &c.
. By marriage settlement it passed to the Tylliols, being settled on William Laton and Isabella his wife, and the heirs of her body to be begotten by Laton, and by whom she had issue Elizabeth, the wife of Peter Tylliol,
esq
Inq. p. m. Isabella q. s. ux. W. Claxton mil. pred. Isab. ten. d. q. ob. man. de Hetton, cum p't ex dono et concessione W. Lamberd, Tho. de Brakenbury, et Rob. Coup. Capni f'ct. d'cis Isabelle et he dib's de corpore suo et corp'e W. Laton nup' viri sui p'creat q'd quid man. ten. de d'no E. p. s. m'etis un. seodi mil. val. xxli. et q'd Eliz. ux. Petri Tylliol ch. est F. et. H. p'dcor Will'i de Laton et Isab. de corp'ib's suis p'creat. &c. Ao 15 Langley.
Inq. p. m. R. Eure mil. ij cot. et x acr. in Hetton, which he held of W. de Laton. Ao 17 Langley.
Inq. p. m. Pet. Tylliol chiv. d. q. ob. f. s. p' leg. Anglie ut de jure Eliz. ux. &c. Rob. fil. Pet. et Eliz. est her. Ao 29 Langley.
Inq. p. m. Rob. Tylliol, 30 Langley. Et est in eod. m'io q'd situs m'ij qui nil. val. p' an. ultra repr. et sunt ibid. xxij mess. que val. p' an. ult. repr. c s. at sunt ibid. xxviij bovat. terrae arab. que val. p' an. ult. repr. viijli. et sunt ibid. xxx prati que val. p' an. &c. xl s. et sunt ibid. xl acr. bosci que val. per an. &c. xl s. et sunt ibid. cc acr. pastur. que val. p' an. &c. xl s. et sic d'c'm man' de Hetton in toto se extendit ad dict. xlli. &c.
. Male issue failing in Robert their son, the manor passed to parceners, his sisters, Isabella the wife of John Colvill, and Margaret the wife of Ch. Moresby. A moiety of the manor afterwards reverted to a branch of the Tylliol family
Inq. p. m. W. Tylliol. arm. Ao 4 Dudley, &c. Philicia ux. Will. Musgrave arm. et Margar. fil. et her.
Inq. relating to the manor of Hetton, temp. ep. Tunstall.—
Rudd's MSS.
, but again passed to parceners, the daughters of Will. de Tylliol.
There are two places of the name of EPPLETON, the one called
Great Eppleton,
the seat of the Mascall family, but formerly the property of Thomas Shadforth,
esq
the other
Little Eppleton,
a seat of Ralph Gowland,
esq
In the ancient records the manor is called Applynden, and gave name to a resident family before bishop Bury's time
Inq. p. m. Tho. de Applynden. The manor of Applynden held by service of one-third of a knight's fee. Rob. son of Tho. son of Johanna heir, paid 8½ marks to the hospital of Kepier. Ao 7 Bury. In pleu. com. Dun. cor. Joh. de Menville vic.—Inq. p. m. Tho. de Applynden. Ao 16 Hatfield.
. In the time of bishop Skirlaw it was the estate of William Heron lord of Say, and continued in that family for several generations
Inq. p. m. Gerard. Heron chiv. 13s. 4d. to Kepier hospital, val. 20 marks. Ao 16 Skirlaw, ap. Dun. cor. R. Conyers esc.—Inq. p. m. W. Heron ch. lord of Say held in fee-tail to him and the heirs male of his body. Ao 17 Skirlaw.—Inq. p. m. Nich. Heron, who held in fee-tail to him and the heirs male of his body; remainder to the right heirs of John Heron, father of John Heron, knight, father of Nicholas, 75s. 6d. rent to the master of Kepier hospital. Ao 3 Langley.—Inq. p. m. John Heron cxiijs. iiijd. rent to the hospital of Kepier. Ao 15 Langley.
.
Of MOORSLEY we find nothing memorable.
By the ancient records it is difficult to separate the HERRINGTONS, which, being three,
East, West,
and
Middle Herrington,
appear in some confusion. In the Boldon Book
Herington.
Duae partes de Herington quas Hugo Hermas tenet. redd. xx s. de cornag. & ij partes j vaccae de metrich. & ij partes j castelmanni & viij. scaceldr. tam brasij quam farinae & avenae & arant & herciant iiij acras apud Newbotill & faciunt operationes hominum in autumno.
Drengus pascit canem & equm quantum ad duas partes drengagij pertinet.—
Boldon Buke.
Heryngton.
Tenentes in Dringag.
Thomas Colvyll miles tenet de jure uxoris suae haeredis Thomas de Esh duas partes maner. de Est Heryngton per servic. forin. & redd. per ann. ad iiij term. usuales pro c
nag. xxs. et red. ad fest. S. Martini pro ij partibus j vaccae de metrich. iiij s. & red. pro operibus xij d.—Et
ed. ad fest. Puris. B. Mariae iiij quar. aven. x bz. de scat. farin. aven. & ij quarter de scatmalt.—Et solehat invenire unum hominem vocat. castelman & arare & herciare iiij acr. terrae apud Newbotill, & facit operationes cum xij hominibus in autumno.—Et dat. xij d. pro operibus autumnal. tenentibus terr. domin. de Newbotill.—Et ipse & tenentes sui ibid. sequentur curiam d'ni vocat halmotea, & ibi placitabunt & recipient rectum & justiciam in tot
per ann.
Thomas de Heryngton tenet j mes. & xl acr. terrae ibid. de haereditate per servic. forin. quantum pertinet ad ij partes dringag. & vadit in magna chacea d'ni episcopi cum ij partibus ij leporarior. & quadrigat, ij partes unius ton. vini & sequitur placita & vadit in legation. episcopi & pascit canem & equum & operatur ad molend. opera consueta & redd per ann. ad iiij term. v s.
Terrae scaccurij.
Praedictus Thomas Colvill tenet de jure uxoris suae j plac. vocat. le Haynyng contin. c acr. terrae per estimation. & redd. per ann. xxxvij s. ij d.
Willielmus Robinson tenet j mes. & ij bovat. terrae & red. per ann. cum iiij d. pro operibus autumn. firmarijs dominica. de Newbotill xij s. iiij d.
Rogerus Atkynson & Will's Atthall tenet ij mes. & ij bovat. terrae red. per ann. cum iiij d. pro operibus ut supra xij d.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Inq. p. m. Joh. Denum. Ao 10 Beaumont, ap. Dun. in plen. com. Dun. co. Joh. de Hanby vic. Dun.
only one Herrington is named, of which Hugh Hermas then held two parts, rendering xx s. for cornage, two parts of the value of a milch cow, and two parts towards a castleman; also rendering eight chalders of malt, and the like of meal, and oats, plowing and harrowing four acres at Newbottle, and working at harvest. It appears that this was of dringage service, as the holder fed dog and horse in proportion to two parts of a dringe. In bishop Beaumont's time John Denum was possessed of Woodhall in West Herrington, with a carucate of land and five acres of wood, held of the bishop
in capite;
and also Roger de Eshe was seised of East Herrington and Middle Herrington, and John D'Arcy of West Herrington, under whom Denum held parcels thereof in East Herrington, by homage, fealty, and suit of court, and service at the mill, under a thirtieth part mulcture, and in Middle Herrington by dringage service: For lands in West Herrington he did homage and fealty to D'Arcy
Inq. p. m. John D'Arcy chiv. ob. s. man' West Herrington, by the courtesy of England, held in cap. of the bishop of Durham by homage, fealty and half a knight's fee: And also the manor of Herverton, John D'Arcy his son and heir. Ao 10 Hatfield, ap. Dun. cor. R. de Bowes vic. Dun.
Inq. p. m. Isab. widow of Rich. Morrison, 40 acres in Middle Herrington, held of the bishop in cap. and held of the lord of Hilton 10 acres on Grendon moor, by a rose and 5 s. rent to Matild. de Acton. Ao 14 Hatfield, ap. Dun. cor W. de Claxton chiv. vic. Dun.
Inq. p. m. Joh. fil. Joh. Pinchard, land in Middle Herrington, held of the bishop in cap. 100 part of a knight's fee.
Inq. p. m. Joh. de Denum. Ao 33 Hatfield, cor. J. de Hyndeley esc.
Inq. p. m. John de Herrington. Ao 5 Joh. ep. Dun. cor. R. de Laton esc.
. In Hatfield's Survey, under the title of tenants in dringage, it is set forth, that Tho. Colvyll, knight, in right of his wife, heiress of Tho. de Eshe, held two parts of the manor of East Herrington by foreign service, rendering yearly for cornage 20s. for two parts of a milch cow 4s. and for work 12d. also four quarters of oats, ten bushels of scat or scac oat meal, and two quarters of malt; also providing according to custom one castleman, and plowing and harrowing four acres at Newbottle, and working with twelve men at harvest, paying 12d. for harvest work at Newbottle on the demesne there. And that he and those holding under him, should follow the lords court called the halmote, and there plead and be impleaded, and receive right and justice. We find thereby that a family had assumed the local name, and that Thomas de Herrington held lands of inheritance there by foreign service, as much as appertained to two parts of a dringe, attending the bishop's great or forest chace with two parts of two greyhounds, leading two parts of a ton of wine, attending the court, serving in the bishop's embassies, feeding dog and horse, and working at the mill as the custom was. Colvyll also, in his wife's right, held a place called Hayning, containing by estimation 100 acres. Will. Robinson also in this early period, held a messuage and two oxgangs of land there. The estate of Thomas de Eshe, by Johan his daughter and heiress, came to Robert de Bland her husband, in the time of bishop Skirlaw
Inq p. m. Rob. de Bland, who held of the right and inheritance of Johan his wife, who was the daughter and heiress of Tho. de Eshe, the manor of Herrington, with its members in Herryngton-dale, of the bishop in dringage. Vide Eshe.
Inq. p. m. Joh. de Fernelaw and Alicia his wife, daughter and heiress of John de Castell, lands in Middle and West Herrington, held of Rob. D'Arcy. Ao 8 Skirlaw, ap. Chester, cor. Rob. de Laton chiv. esc.
Inq. p m. Bertram Monboucher, lands in West Herrington, held of Rob. D'Arcy. Ao 12 Skirlaw, ep. Dun. cor. T. de Claxton esc.
. The estate of D'Arcy, in the tenth year of bishop Langley, was settled in trust for Robert D'Arcy and Margaret his wife, and the heirs of their bodies
Vide inq. 10 Langley, ap. Dun. 18 May, cor. Will. de Claxton esc.
, who failed in issue, and left two sisters his coheiresses, one of whom, Isabell, was the wife of Rolland D'Arcy, and the other Elizabeth, the wife of John Percy
Inq. p. m. Marg. D'Arcy. Ao 29 Langley.
. Roger Thornton became possessed of the estates of the family of Herrington in East and Middle Herrington
Inq. p. m. Rog. Thornton de NC. sup' Tynam mercat. Ao 24 Langley.
Licence for John Hedworth,
esq
to alien lands in West Herrington in bishop Sever's time.—
Rudd's MSS.
Special liberty to Richard Hedworth, son and heir of John, of a third part of the manor of West Herrington. Ao 9 Barnes.—
Ibid.
, which came to the Lumleys by the heiress of the Thorntons. There is a handsome mansion-house belonging to the family of Robinsons, at Middle Herrington.
The next place, in the arrangement of the book of rates, is NEWBOTTLE, a beautiful village on a fine elevated situation, a little to the north-west of Houghton. In the Boldon Book it is set forth, that Newbottle consisted of sixteen cottagers, who each held twelve acres of land, and worked two days in every week throughout the year, made four portions of land in autumn, in which work all the family except the housewife, were to labour, and each cottager rendered one hen and five eggs. There were three other cottagers, who held six acres each, and wrought two days in the week between Pentecost and Martinmass. The greve or headborough, and smith, had each twelve acres, their fee of service, and the punder had twelve acres, and also a thrave of corn from every carucate of land in Newbottle, Biddick, and Herrington, and rendered 40 hens and ccc eggs. The demesne, which consisted of four carucates of land, with the sheep and pasture, were then in the bishop's hands. Hugh Boynton, with sundry others, held the demesne lands at the time of Hatfield's Survey, containing 312 acres. There is nothing very singular in that survey relative to Newbottle, save that we do not find one tenant
in capite
there
Newbotill.
In Newbotill sunt xvj cotemanni quorum unusquis
que
tenet xij acr. & operatur p' totum annum duobus diebus in ebdomeda et facit in operatione sua iiij porcationes in autumno cum omni familia domus except. houswyva, & reddit unam gallinam & v ova.
Et tres alii cotemanni quorum unusquis
que
tenet vj acr. & operatur a Pentec. usq. as festum S. Martini ij diebus in ebdomeda.
Johannes filius Henrici tenet j toftum & xij acr. pro xij d. in excambium terrae quam prius habere solebat in Herington.
Praepositus tenet xij acr. pro suo servitio. Faber xij acr. pro suo servitio.
Pundere xij acr. & habet de unaqua
que
caruca de Newbotill & de Bedic & de Herington unam travam bladi & reddit xl gallinas & ccc ova.
Dominium iiij carucar. & oves cum pastura sunt in manu episcopi.—
Boldon Buke.
Newbotill.
Terrae domin.
Hugo de Boynton & tenet xiij acr.—Johannes Wilkinson xiij acr.—alii tenentes cccxij acr. Praedicti tenentes tenent inter se j acr. terrae de eisd'm domin. & red. per ann. ut sup. xviij d.
Terrae bond.
Hugo Boynton cum multis aliis, &c.—Iidem tenentes redd. pro vij acr. terrae punder. ad fest. natal. d'ni paschae xvj gall. & liij
xx
ova.
Terra in mora.
Willielmus Shilton tenet, &c. cum aliis, &c. Iidem tenentes solv. inter se pro operationibus cotmannor. & redd. per ann. viij s —Commun. furnum ibid. & redd. per ann. iij s. iiij d.—Medietatem molendini de Newbotill & redd. per ann. iiijli. vj s. viij d.
Terrae scaccarij.
Willielmus de Shilton & xx alii tenentes, &c.
Dominic. Plac.
Johannes Goryng tenet j cotag. infra dominicam plac. &c. &c.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Lib. M. Register's office, Durham.
Newbottle division ins. maner. de Houghton-le-Spring, 29th Nov. 1691, p. 64.
All claimed as copyholders or leaseholders under the bishop, and paid him 10l. for his interest or consent to the confirmation of the division.—
Hodgson's MSS.
The Hall moor and Dobmire moor divided. The Chiltons and Wilsons were principal claimants. The particulars too tedious to be inserted here.
. Many genteel families reside here.
WARDON, or as it is called in the Boldon Book, WARDONA, consisted of nine
firmarij
or tenants, who held eighteen oxgangs of land, (each oxgang containing thirteen acres and a half) rendering 8d. for each oxgang. They wrought twenty days in autumn with one man for each oxgang, and harrowed four days with one horse for every two oxgangs: In the service of twenty days in autumn they made up four portions of land with all their family, except the housewife; and they carted corn two days, and one day hay, and for each oxgang paid one hen and five eggs. In Hatfield's Survey is nothing singular relative to this place, wherein was not one tenant
in capite
Wardona.
In Wardona sunt jx firmarij qui tenent. xviij bovatas unamquam
que
de xiij acris & dim. & redunt viij d. de unaqua
que
bovata; & operantur xx diebus in autumno cum j homine de unaqua
que
bovata; & herciant iiij diebus cum j equo de singulis ij bovatis. Et faciunt iiij porcationes cum omni familia domus, excepta husewyva infra praedictus operationes xx dierum; & quadrigant ij diebus bladum & uno die fenum. Et de unaqua
que
bovata reddunt j gallinam & v ova.—
Boldon Buke.
Wardon.
Johannes Aire tenet, &c. & solebat operari sicut illi de Boldon & redd. &c.
Terrae bond.
Johannes Arnold, &c. Robertus Wright, &c. Will's Porter, &c.—Predicti tenentes reddunt inter se pro lx acr. terrae, &c.
Terrae scaccarij.
Will's Porter, &c. tenentes ibid. solv. inter se ad festa natal. d'ni & pasch. xviij gallin.
ijx
xx
ova.—Solv. punder iiijx
xx
de Houghton ad eadem festam xl gall. xij
xx
ova.
Hatfield's Survey.
. In our attention to the city of Durham certain conjectures were formed touching the tradition, that Wardon hill was the ground where St Cuthbert's remains were miraculously staid on the return from Ripon, previous to the settlement at Durham; in that place were noted the uncertain evidence of ancient writers, and we presumed to give an opinion, that Wardon was not the place pointed out by the writers of antiquity. Those who treat of our church history do not mention that any particular veneration was paid to the saint's resting place, till the time of prior Hugh of Darlington, who built a camera, a hall, and chapel at Wardelau, or Wadele. Wardon was from very early times part of the possessions of the See, but never of the convent, so that the prior had no right to enter therein, and build a lodge or hall for the use of the cloister. The hill of Wardon is a considerable eminence, rising gradually from all sides but towards the east, where it is more steep: There are no remains of buildings to be discovered on any part of it. The similitude of name to that of the place mentioned by old writers, has led to the error; but if we consider the names Wardon and Wardona, we shall be led into two probable conjectures touching their etymology, either that the eminence commanding an extensive prospect by sea and land, was the station of the warden of the north, in some conflicts with the Danes or Scots, and was called the Warden's Law, or Mount; or that this being a mark and guide for sailors, when the small vessels of the ancients kept close under the shores, and for want of the compass dared not in dark weather to trust themselves to an open and stormy sea, it was the point of view which struck the eye on passing the promontory of Flamborough or Souter Point, and guided to the mouth of the river Were, gaining thereby the name of Were-Dun, or the Hill of Were. It is left to the reader to judge of these conjectures, we having discovered no degree of evidence to support the tradition, that by miraculous interposition, here began the leading events which were to aggrandize the present city of Durham.
We find little in the records of the See touching EAST and WEST RAINTON, they being chiefly the possessions of the convent of Durham. Bishop Bainbrigg granted to prior Thomas and the convent
Rot. B. No 64.
, free warren in Rainton park; bishop Fordham gave them licence
Sch. 10, No 13.
to acquire lands in East Rainton, the estates of John Bap and Walter Tailliour, held under the priory; and bishop Neville did the like
Rot. M. No 53.
, as to other lands
A conveyance from John Richardson, of Durham, to John Heath, of Ramside, gent. of all tithes of corn and grain, line and hemp, within the town fields and territories of East Rainton. Temp. bishop Mathews
Rudd's MSS.
There was a chapel at West Rainton, and a chantry therein dedicated to the Virgin Mary, called our lady's chapel.—
MSS. Ch. Hunter, M D.
In 1471, the prior of Durham presented Thomas Roy to this chantry, out of regard to the queen of England, but upon this condition, that he should not leave the chantry unserved three whole months.—Richard Gallaway, the last incumbent of St Mary's chantry, received a pension of 4l. An. 1553.
Our Lady's chapel of West Rainton 7l.—
Randall's MSS.
.
MOOR HOUSE appears to have been part of the possessions of the Lumleys in bishop Langley's time
Inq. p. m. Joh. de Lomley. Ao 15 bishop Langley.
.
COKEN, the seat of Ralph Carr,
esq
lies in this parish, on the banks of the river Were, where the river forms a beautiful curvature, almost to enclose the enchanting scene. The mansion-house is ancient, but the situation elevated and fine. Mr Pennant, from some inadvertency, speaks of it as being the seat of St Godric's austerities; Finchale, where the hermitage stood, being on the opposite side of the river. We repeat part of the description given by that judicious traveller.
12 July, saw Coken, the seat of Mr Carr; a most romantic situation, laid out with great judgment: The walks are very extensive, principally along the sides or at the bottom of great dells, bounded with vast precipices, finely wooded; and many parts of the rocks are planted with vines and other fruit trees, which I was told bore well, but late. The river Were winds along the hollows, and forms two very fine reaches, at the place where you enter these walks. Its waters are very clear, and its bottom a solid rock. The view towards the ruins of Finchal abbey is remarkably great; and the walk beneath the cliffs has a magnificent solemnity, a sit retreat for its monastic inhabitants. This was once called the Desert, and was the rude scene of the austerities of St Godric, who carried them to the most senseless extravagance. A sober mind may even at present be affected with horror at the prospect from the summits of the cliffs into a darksome and stupendous chasm, rendered still more tremendous by the roaring of the waters over its distant bottom.
The house and adjacent grounds are situated on an eminence, on three sides washed by the river, and towards the east bounded by deep dells, filled with stately forest trees. The southern side of this peninsula is laid out in pleasure grounds; one wide and extended terrace runs along the summit of the cliffs, another at their feet: From the upper terrace fine openings in the wood afford prospects of the adjacent lands; and in one point of view, you look down upon the solemn vale scattered with the ruins of the monastery and abbey. The lower terrace is formed on the shelves of the rocky shore, from whence the cliffs rise perpendicular near an hundred feet, crowned with hanging oaks, which strike their roots into the fissures of the rock, and stretch a solemn umbrage over the walk. From this terrace the ruins of the religious edifice appear in all their majestic beauties, shut in by rising grounds fringed with woods; the river falls over a rocky channel in troubled streams, and the murmurs of the waters are repeated by a soothing echo. For religious contemplation, recluse piety, and self-denial, never was place better adapted; much pity it was ever disgraced by unmeaning severity and hypocrisy! Various are the beautiful scenes this walk affords; description is languid; to visit the place is the only means of forming ideas of its picturesque excellencies. Proceeding along the eastern side of the eminence, the walk is carried on the summit of a deep and wooded dell, which relieves the eye for some time before you enter upon the northern rocks, which are shaken, rugged, and truly august; mighty volumes hang over your head, as if the wind which shook the oaks would rend the precipice and tumble it into the vale. Several deep grottos formed by nature, are shadowed with trees suspended from their roof; hasty streams fall from the cliffs, and with a hollow clamour increase the pleasing solemnity of the vast scene. The river forms a canal near a mile in length, through an avenue of rocks and hanging forests; the spire of Chester church the terminating object. The woods are noble, consisting chiefly of oaks of a great age: Nature has lavished beauties on this place, and what art has done with an excellent taste, has smoothed her brow where art was wanted, and opened to the eye those beauties her wildness would otherwise have concealed. In the time of bishop Galfrid, one Aellafus, a priest, gave Coken to the church of Durham. This is to be understood only of part of the territory now called Coken. The first lay person we find in the ancient records possessed of lands in Coken, is Alexander de Kibblesworth, of whom the family of Birtley, in bishop Hatfield's time, held lands there; they also held other lands in Coken of the priory of Durham
Inq. p. m. William son of Wahanc de Birtley, Ao 21 Hatfield.
. Alexander held of the prior of Finchale a moiety of the vill of Coken
Inq. p. m. Alex. de Kibblesworth. Ao 23 Hatfield.—Inq. p. m. John de Kibblesworth, Ao 25 Hatfield. In this inq. it is said he held a moiety of the vill of Coken of the lord prior of Durham, rendering a pound of pepper.
; on the death of John his son, the family possessions fell to five daughters his coheiresses. The Lumleys had lands there in bishop Langley's time.
OFFERTON was one of the places given by Athelstan to the See of Durham, as an appendage of Weremouth. In bishop Beaumont's time the vill of Offerton was the possession of John de Denum
Inq. p. m. John de Denum, Ao 10, Beaumont.
; but from that period we find few traces of it in the records. The mansion-house, the seat of Francis Middleton,
esq
lately deceased, is pleasantly situated on the brow of a hill, commanding an extensive prospect up the valley north-eastward.
The Parish of
DALTON,
properly called DALTON-LE-DALE, the small village with the church lying in a very deep and narrow valley, within a mile of the sea: The scenes are romantic, but for want of wood, are deficient in that richness which is so pleasing in the vallies further from the ocean. The church is small, and without ailes. There are two table monuments in the chancel, one with a recumbent effigy in stone, of a person in armour, but without an inscription.
Nearer to the sea lies DALDEN; the vale still deep and narrow, with some little wood, which fringes the margin of the brook: The old tower or house of Dalden is in ruins, and so much destroyed as to furnish no idea of its former consequence: From the situation it appears to have been merely strengthened against wandering robbers. Dalden gave name to a resident family so early as bishop Hatfield's time, when we find William de Dalden held the manor of the lord de Percy, by homage, fealty, and a knight's fee, for which the lord Percy made suit at the bishop's county
Inq. p. m. 25 Hatfield.
. It became the possession of the Bowes's, who held of Henry earl of Northumberland
Inq. p. m Matildis ux. Will. Bowes chiv. Ao 15 Langley.—Inq. p. m. W. Bowes mil. Ao 1 Booth.— Inq. p. m. W. Bowes arm. 17 Booth. Et dic. ult'ius q'd d'cus Will'us in d'co Bre. no'iat p' c'tam suam jur. in evidenc. ost. dedit man'ium de Dalden cum suis p't, &c. Henrico & Thome Fairchare he'nd. & tenend. p'de'm man'ium de Dalden, &c. cum suis p't p'sat Henrico & Thome & hed. suis imp'p'm virtute cujus doni p'dict. H. & T. suerunt inde seiti in d'nico suo ut de fo. q'd quid. man'ium de Dalden cum suis p't. te. de d'ce d'no ep. causa sorif'cur. sact. p' Henr. nup' com. Northumbr. set p' que s'a J. penitus ign. &c.
Livery to Geo. Bowes,
esq
son and heir of Sir Ralph Bowes of Dawdon, alias Streatlam, alias Cowton.— 6th Apr. Ao 9, Tunstall.
, and afterwards came to the Blakistons of Blakiston, and Winyard
Pardon to Sir Tho. Blakiston, knight and bart. for alienation to Sir Wm Blakiston of Wynyard, knight, dated 26 June, 13 Ja. I. of the manors of Blaxton, Coxhowe, and Dalden, and land in Thorpthewles. As to Blaxton to the use of Sir William for life; remainder to Sir Thomas his eldest son in tail male; remainder to Sir William's second son John, in tail male; remainder to the third son Ralph, in tail male; remainder to the fourth son Francis, in tail male; remainder to the fifth son William, in tail male; remainder to the youngest son Marmaduc, in tail male; remainder to the right heirs of Sir William. And as to Coxhowe and Dalden, to the use of Sir Thomas in tail male, with like remainders to his brothers. Dated 2d Aug. 1615.
At this time Sir Thomas is called esquire, so that he was knighted or made a baronet between the date of the settlement and this pardon, which is not a year.
10 Feb. 1615. Licence to Sir Thomas Blakiston of Daldon, knight and baronet, to alien to Robert Collingwood of Hetton on the Hill, a moiety of the manor of Daldon.—
Rudd's MSS.
. A moiety was sold off to Collingwood of Hetton, from which family the Milbankes were purchasers.
Dalton was one of the places given to the See of Durham by Athelstan. Bishop William de Carilepho annexed the church to the convent. The family of Lumley had lands at Dalton
1082. Carta 1 'ma in eccl. Dun. fo. 70. Vide note to p. 178, vol. i. Annals of W. de Carilepho. Pardon of alienation from Sir John Lumley, lord Lumley, and Catherine his wife. 1 Aug. 1607.—
Rudd's MSS.
Ordinatio vicariar. de Ellingham, Dalton in valle & Brankton. E. Cartuar. II. Eccl'ie Dun. fo. 3, 1273. Officialis, &c. pateat, &c. q'd cum a ven. pre. Rob'to dei gra. epo, &c. nobis sit injunctum ut de vic'iis eccl'iar. de Dalton, &c. ad p'natum pr. & conventus Dunelm. spectantibus. In quibus, &c. ordinamus & taxamus in hunc modum. Vic'ia vero de Dalton in toto alt'agio ipius eccl. viz. decima Lanae Agnor. faeni molendinor. & pisc'iar ac aliis minutis decimis & obvencoib's ad ipsam eccl'iam p'tin. una cum area competenti in villa de Dalton ad edificand. salva cam'ario Dun. decia faeni de Morton, &c.—
Randal's MSS.
This is a discharged living in the deanry of Easington, and dedicated to St Andrew.—The dean and chaper of Durham patrons.
Tenths 12s. 0¾d.—Proc. ep. 4s.—Clear yearly val. 40l. 17s. 11½d.—Real value 90l.
Appropriation. Angl. Sac. vol. i. p. 733.
VICARS.
Gilbert de Billingham, oc. vic. 1180
Ingelramus, 1273
Rob. de Herrington
Will. de Norton, 1347, p. m. Herrington
Rich. de Wolveston, 1373
Tho. Crokay, 1405
Rich. Knapton
Rog. Moreby, 1425, p. m. Knapton
Tho. March, 1438, p. res. Moreby
Rich. Rasch, 1445, p. res. March
Will. Aclyff, 1464, p. res. Rasch
Will. Nicholl, 1477
John Ledell, 1485
Tho. Fell, 1486
Rob. Forest, 1526, p. m. Fell
Anth. Fawell, 1530, p. res. Forest
Edw. Baites, cl. 1560, p. m. Fawell
Franc. Trollop, cl. 1562, p. res. Baites
Rob. Forster, cap. 1564, p. res. Trollop
Sampson King, cl. 1583, p. m. Forster
Rich. Clement, 1605
Math. Cowper, cl. A. M. 1621, p. m. Clement
Sam. Bolton, A. M. 1662, p. res. Cowper
Tho. Sharp, cl. 1665, p. res. Bolton, (over the vicarage door inscribed Tho. Sharp edif. 1665) was pr. 29th March
Pet. Wilson, A. M. 1715, p. m. Sharp
Edw. Herne, A. B. 1732, p. m. Wilson
Will. Dunne, A. M. 1740, p. m. Herne
Tho. Drake, A. M. 1761, p. m. Dunne, he received from Dunne's executors 27l. dilap.
Nich. Hornsby, A. M. 1774, p. res. Drake
Jos. Watkins, A. M. 1775, p. res. Hornsby
— Pixall, p. res. Watkins
Randal's MSS.
Dalton parish.
Book of rates.
Value of lands.
 
£. 9
16
6
£. 1201
18
8
Grey's MSS.
Dean and chapter's rents.
—Cold Hesledon tithe 5l.—Morton tithe 5l. 6s. 8d.—Dalton tithe 5l. 6s. 8d.— Morton tithe hay 9s. 4d.—Dalton tenements 12l. 15s. 6d.—Murton 13l. 4s. 5d.
 
Land tax at 4s.
County rates 6s. 8d.
Cold Hesleton
12
2
0
0
11
0½
Dalton-le-Dale
11
4
0
0
11
8
Dawdon
22
11
4
1
2
9½
East Morton
20
18
10
1
0
0
Mann's MSS
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population from 1660 to 1679
134
28
96
1760 to 1779
102
44
59
Increase
 
18
 
Decrease
32
 
37
Number of burials in the last year 5.— Computed number of inhabitants 150.
.
In bishop Langley's time the manor of Hesleton near Morton was the estate of the Lumleys
Inq. p. m. John de Lomley. Ao 15 Tunstall, a recovery against Sir John Lumley, lord Lumley for the manors of Hesleden, &c.—1 Aug 1607. Pardon for alien. from Sir John Lumley, lord Lumley, and Cath. his wife, by fine to Geo. Smith and another for lands in Hesleden, alias Cold Hesleden.—
Rudd's MSS.
.
PEDIGREE OFTHE FAMILY OF BELLASIS, &c.
(A) Richard, knighted by King Chas. I. buried at Stranton,
Margaret, d. of Sir William Lambton.
Was buried at Stranton.
William, was a great favourite of the Duke of Monmouth.
Catharine, d. of Sir Tho. Davison, of Blakiston.
Margaret, only child.
Elizabeth, d. of John Brandling,
Esq
of Middleton, near Leeds.
Richard, a Barrister at law, ob. s. p.
Thomas, a col. in the army.
A d. of *** Gore,
Esq
Henry Belasyse,
Esq
living in Cheshire, A. D. 1794. Aet. 84.
*** d. of *** Glynne, of Wales.
Rowland died unmar.
Was knighted by King William, ob. 1719, bur. at Brancepeth, Aet. 71.
Henry,
Elizabeth Benson, mother to Lord Bingley.
Mary, died Aetat 17.
William, of Brancepeth Castle, ob. 10th Feb. 1769.
*** Billings.
An only daughter died unm. April, 1774.
Fleetwood Shuttleworth, neice to Sir Rich. of Forcet, Knt.
Catharine, m. Henry Talbot, of Burroby,
Esq
Mary, m. Sir Th. Lorraine, Bart.
William,
Martha, d. of Sir Henry Curwen, of Workington, Knt.
William, died unmar.
Richard, of Houghton, died 1st Nov. 1721.
Margaret, d. of Lodowick Hall, of Chilton,
Esq
ob. 1st April, 1728.
Thomas, ob. 27th Aug. 1751.
Alice, d. of R. Hilton, of Durham, wid. of Chr. Blacket of Newham.
Martha Maria, only daugh.
Richard Bowes, of Darlington, surgeon.
1 Charles.
3 Margaret.
2 Martha.
4 Thomas now of Darlington, attorney at law.
5 Frances.
6 Bellasyse.
William,
Jane, d. of Seth Loftus, of Whitehall, county of York.
Charles.
Mary, ob. 6th May, 1791.
John, died unm.
Margaret, m. Mich. Hall, of Chester,
Esq
Elizabeth, m. John Ferne, of Newcastle,
Esq
Dorothy died unmar.
Bridget Henrietta, d. of Sir Hugh Bethel, Knt.
Charles, m. Cath. d. of Sir Robert Layton.
John, Brian, George, all died unmar.
Marg. married Simpson of Pittington.
Elizabeth, married Davison of Blakiston, Knt.
Dorothy, m. Millar, of Whitwell.
Mary, m. Sir John Delaval, Bart.
Timothea, m. Sir Ra. Davison, of Durham.
Sheriff of Durham, ob 3d Dec. 1641, Aetat 48.
Pedigree of the Family of
BELLASIS,
of Morton, or Murton; and Oughton, or Owton, in the County of Durham.
N. B. In Sir George Norroy's visitation, we find this family's pedigree twice stated; we have therefore given them together with a continuation to the present time.
(This refers to VOL. II. PAGE 574.)
Henry Bellasis of Newborough, in the county of York,
Margaret d. of Sir Will. Fairfax of Gilling.
Sir Hen. of Newborough.
Tho. of Morton.
Margaret, d. of Will. Lee of East Brandon.
William, sheriff of Durham, ob. 3d Dec. 1641, vid. epitaph,
Margaret, d. and coh. of Will. Selby of Whitehouse.
Richard, born 14th April, 1612, Aetat 3, Ann. 1615.
William, b. 30 Dec. 1617.
Charles, 15th Feb. 1618.
John, 22d Jan. 1619.
Brian, 4th June, 1621.
George, 24th Dec. 1622.
Margaret, 4th June, 1613.
Elizabeth, 2d Sept. 1614.
Mary, 30th Aug. 1615.
Timothea, 7th Dec. 1616.
Dorothy, 22d Dec. 1623.
Mary.
Joan.
Margaret.
James.
Dorothy, m. Tho. Metham.
SECOND STATEMENT.
Sir William Ballasis, of Newborough, Knt. ob. 1604.
Marg. d. of Nich. Fairfax, of Gilling,
Esq
Sir Henry created Bart. 22d May, 1611.
Ursula, d. of Sir Tho. Fairfax, of Denton.
Thomas, the 1st viscount; vid. Edmondson.
Edmondson makes him marry a Margaret Leigh, daughter of Will. Leigh,
Esq
Brian, ob. Aet. 65, bur. at Straton.
Catharine, d. of Sir John Darcy, Knt.
‡ Sir William, of Owton, and Morton,
Margaret, d. of Sir George Selby, of Whitehouse.
(A)
Charles. both died unmar.
Richard.
Dorothy, m. Geo. Salvayne, of Croxdale,
Esq
James, ob. s. p. m. Mary, d. of Hen. Tunstall, of Scargill, co. York; and 2dly, Isa. d. of Tho. Chaytor, of Butterby. Left his estate to his brother's children. See his monument in Straton church.
Edmondson takes no note of him.
The Parish of
EASINGTON.
The adjoining parish to the south is Easington. In the Boldon Book
Esynton & Thorp.
In Esyntona & Thorp sunt xxxj villani & unusquis
que
tenet, reddit & operatur sicut villani de Bodogà.
Simon tenet dimid. carucat & reddit x s. & vadit in legationibus episcopi.
Galfridus Cokesmaht tenet. dimid. carucat. & reddit x s. & vadit in lega. ep'i.
Carpentarius carucarum tenet viij acr. pro servitio suo.
Faber viij acr. pro servitio suo.
Punderus tenet viij acr. & reddit xxiiij gallinas & v
c
ova.
Duae villae reddunt xxx s. de cornag. & ij vaccas de metrid.
Molendina de Esynton & de Scoton reddunt viij marcas.
Dominium est ad firmam cum instauramento iiij carucarum & ij hercarior. & redd. xxiiij marc.
Oves cum pastura sunt in manu episcopi.—
Boldon Buke.
Esyngton.
Liberi tenentes.
Will's de Swalwells tenet, &c. Will's Fairlie, Janyn de Thorp, Johannes Burdon, Johan's Watson, Tho. Menvill, Alanus Smyth, &c. Et omnes tenentes praedicti vadunt in legationibus d'ni ep'i.
Walterus de Shykworth tenet, &c. Will's Guy, &c.
D'na Isabella de Claxton
tenet
maner. de Pespole
quond'm Will'i de Denoun redd. xiij s. iiij d.—Eadem Isab, reddit pro praedicto maner. ad fest. S. Cuthberti in Sept. j par. calcar. &c.—Ead'm Isabella tenet campum vocat. Boisfeld quond'm Rob'ti de Bosco, solebat reddere per annum i s. modo redd. &c. xiij s. iiij d.
Walterus Hawyk tenet campum vocat. Flemyngfeld In mora de Esyngton qui solebat reddere per annum lxxix s. viij d. modo redd. per ann. xiij s. iiij d.
Walterus de Ediracres tenet maner. de Ediracres per cert. servic. compráehens in carta sua & redd. per annum xiij s. iiij d.
Terrae domin.
Will's Swalwells tenet xv acr. terrae de domin. &c. Will. Hull & xx alii tenentes tenent cclxxxv acr. terr. domin. in divers parcell. Iidem tenentes tenent inter se vj acr. terrae de eisd'm domin. invent. per mensurat. prout patet per antiqu. rentale, pro quibus solebat reddere per ann. viij d. modo dimit. cum domin. Iidem tenent iiij acr. &c.—Deficiunt xx acr. de dicti domin. quae sunt in tenura omnium tenent supra.—Omnes praedictae terrae domin. dimittuntur tenentibus villae per novam dimiss. redd. in groso xviijli.
Terrae bond.
Will's Swalwells tenent j mess. & ij bovat. terrae, bovata contin. xv. acr. & redd. per ann. ad iiij term. pro operib. xi s. ix d. Et pro scatpenys & averpenys ad fest. purif. B. Mariae xix d. Et pro scatpenys vocat. per tenentes maltpenys xv d. Et pro averpenys ad duo festa S. Cuthberti & ad fest. natalis S. Johannis Baptistae xij d. & pro wodlades ad idem festum S. Johannis viij d. Et ad fest. purif. B. Mariae vj bz aven. de scat. Et ad fest. natalis d'ni ij gall. & ad fest. Pasch. x ova. Et solebat operari in omnibus sicut illi de Boldon, sicut contin. in quod'm libro vocat. Boldon Buk. & pro operibus solvit xiij d. ad fest. S. Michaelis, &c. xxviij alii tenentes tenent xxxi mes. &c. & faciend. & solvend. ut supra. Iidem tenentes solvunt pro cornag. ad fest. S. Cuthberti in Sept. tantum xxx s.—Pro castelmen ad iiij terminos majores xl s.—Cariabunt unum tonellum vini.—Solvunt pro j vacca de metrich. ad fest. S. Martini tantum xij s.
Cotag.
Alanus Smith, &c. & facit iiij opera autumnal. pret. operis ij d. &c. Adam Glede & xij alii tenentes, &c. & faciunt opera & redd. ut supra.—Walterus Worshall tenet j cotag. &c. & colligit gallin. & ducit. ad maner. infra Tynam, &c.—Thomas Emerson, &c. & colligit gallin. & ducit ut supra.—Pet. Emerson tenet, &c. quae quond'm fuere parcell. unius bond. & redd. &c. scatpenys, averpenys, pro wodlades, iij bz aven. de scat. ij gall. & x ova, sed nihil red. pro castelmen.—Praedicti tenentes tenent inter se ij cotag. de xvj cotag. superius quae non inveniuntur ad praesens, soleb. reddere per ann. iiijli. xix s. x d. & redd. pro dictis cotag. xij d.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Tuisela.
Walterus Buggethorp tenet villam de Tuisela in escambium pro medietate de C
xtona, & reddit xxxs. et vadit in magna caza cum j leparario, & quando commune auxilium venerit debet dare ij s. ad plus.—
Boldon Buke.
Etherdacres.
Adam filius Johannis tenuit Etheredefacres in escamb um pro terra quam pater suus tenuit in magna Halctona, postea vendidit medictatem ejusdem villae Nigillo fratri Johan's Clerici ad tenend. de episcopo in capite et reddit pro cadem medietate dimid. marc. Et Drote de Midilham pro altera medietate quam habet in vadimonium de praedicto Adam, reddit similiter dimid. marc.—
Ibid
Within this manor are Cashop, Shadforth, Sherburn, Shotton, and Easington, all which places attend the bishop's court here. Rector ib'm gaudet quoddam claus. vocat. Filly More Close ann. valoris 7l. p' sumptib. cur. exsolvendis.—
Mickleton's MSS.
Inq. p. m. Joh. Fayrey, &c. Et sugabit namea cum ball'io d'ni ep'i & testisicabit summonicoes & super- Intend. car. &c. Ao 6 Bury.
Hiis diebus Ealfredus filius Britulfinei fugiens pyratas venit ultra montes versus occidentem, quaerens misericordiam S. Cutheberti & Cutheardi episcopi, ut praestarent sibi aliquas terras, Gutheardus autem ei praestitit has villas Elington, Sileton, Thorep, Horeden, Yoden, duas Ceatton, Yoden australem, Holom, Hoton, Tumlington, Billingham, cum suis appendiciis; Scrufuton.—
Lel. Col. vol. ii. p.
374.
it is mentioned jointly with Thorp, a place a little to the southward. There were thirty-one villains, who held their lands, and performed their services like those of Boldon. By that record it appears there were only two free tenants, Simon and Galfrid Cokesmaht, who held each half a carucate of land, and served on the bishop's embassies. The carpenter, smith, and punder each held lands for their services, and the two vills rendered 30s. cornage, and provided two milch cows. The demesne was let out, but the pasture and sheep stock were in the hands of the bishop. In bishop Bury's time we find one John Fairey was possessed of a messuage and a parcel of land in Easington, held of the bishop
in capite,
by the singular service of
aiding the bishop's bailiff to drive goods distrained, attesting summonses, and superintending the carriage of a dole of wine annually.
This family held their small possession for some ages. In Hatfield's Survey the free tenants are named, and all performed the service of embassy. The demesne lands are therein stated to be upwards of 300 acres. It appears there were only twenty-nine bond tenants, who occupied thirty-two messuages, each holding two oxgangs of land, computing fifteen acres to an oxgang, and paying for work xi s. ix d. for aid, scat, or scac. pennys, and plow-pennys, at the feast of the Virgin 19d. for scotpennys, called by the tenants in that district malt-pennys 15 d. and for aver or plow-pennys at the two feasts of St Cuthbert, the feast of the Nativity, and John the Baptist 12d. for woodloads 8d. and at the feast of the Purification six bushels of lot oats, at the feast of the Nativity two hens, at the Passover ten eggs; and in lieu of other work 13 d. They also paid 30s. cornage, 40s. for castlemen, 12s. in lieu of one milch cow, and carried a ton of wine. In the service of the cottagers was that of collecting the hens, and carrying them to the bishop's manors. The parcels of freehold in Thorp and Easington being very small, it would not be a profitable labour to trace a succession of possessors, we find among them the Guys, Daltons, and Claxtons.
The town of Easington stands on an elevated situation, the land gradually inclining towards the sea. At the upper end of the town, on an eminence, is the church, a lofty building; a sea mark for mariners. The chancel of this church is twelve paces long and six wide, with three steps ascending to the table; is ceiled, stuccoed, and neatly wainscotted, with some tabernacle work above the table. The east window is formed of three lights, under a pointed arch, with rose work tracery; and there are three windows to the south, of two lights each, under pointed arches. The chancel is divided from the nave by a pointed arch, rising from corbles, and closed with a neat screen, ornamented with foliage and open work in oak. You descend by four steps into the nave, the length of which is eighteen paces; divided uniformly by two side ailes, formed by three pillars on each side, supporting pointed arches, the whole width being thirteen paces; the pillars are light; on the south side two are octagonal and one round, and on the north side two round and one octagonal: The capitals are formed by two tresses of square projections, and one roll, which hath a good effect. The pulpit is supported by the first south pillar. The belfry rises on a circular arch, and the tower is about sixty feet in height. The nave is lighted by three windows in the south aile, and four upper windows on each side of the center aile; and is stalled with oak, ornamented with fleur-de-lis. In the south aile is a burial vault for the family of Conyers of Horden
On a mural monument, above the Horden seats.
P. M. S. Juxta hujus porticus medium Dormiunt usq. ad resuro'em D'na Francisca Conyers pietatis exemplar Obit 24 die Jan. 1635, et juxta illam D'ns Joh'ns Conyers de Hordon, bar. Ejus maritus probitatis eximiae Obit 4 die Dec. 1664, in quor. me'oriam D'ns Christoph's Conyers filius & heres Non exec. reverenter & voluntarie hunc mar'oem extruxit qui suum die 16 et sepultus est.
P. R. Sir Chr. Conyers bur. 12 Oct. 1692. Sir Christopher is set on his feet in the vault, but for what reason unknown.
Wm Stanton fecit London
A noted sculptor, from whom Le Neve received many monumental inscriptions.
.
The manor belongs to the bishop, and a court is kept here. The customs and copyholds are of the same nature with those of the bishop's other manors.
In the year 1762 Dr Sam. Dickens began to alter and repair the old and much decayed rectory house, at a very considerable expence.
There were two chantries in this church: One the chantry of St Mary, value 4l. 11s. 4d.—The other of Our Ladie of Pitie (as it is called) in Bidow, value 5l.
John Trendon and John Levesham, supposed to belong to Our Lady of Pitie's chantry.
By an inq. in the 13th of bishop Hatfield, 1357, it was found that Adam Neuman of Little Eden, alienated without the bishop's licence, 1 mess. and 21 acres of land, in the same vill, in mortmain, to the chantry of the Blessed Mary of Easington, value 10s.—
Randal's MSS.
Geo. Burnell last incumbent of St Mary's chantry, had a pension of 4l. p' ann. which he received in the year 1553.—
Willis.
Essington, a manor pertcyninge of auncient tyme to the byshopryke of Durham; for when one Nicholas resigned in tyme of Henry III. he had this towne, Howden, and Stocton appointed for his sustentation duringe his life.—
Lambarde's Dict. p.
109.
Gabr. Clarke, D. D. by will, dated 8 May, 1662, gave 60l. to buy a lease of 10l. per ann. for the schoolmaster of Easington. Inq. of Ch. Uses, 1684.
Rot. A. Fox, No 126. Lr'ae pat. f'ctae R. Laburn, q'd ipse xl acras terre de gleba ecclie suae de Esyngton jacentes juxta Hallefeld, &c. includere, &c. 1501.
Liber M. 91. In the register's office, Durham.
Easington and Little Thorpe division, 22 Aug. 1672.
Complainants claimed as freeholders, copyholders, and leadsholders.
1st award. Easington moor. This division is recited in the decree, and appears to have been made in the year 1656.
2d award. Division of Little Thorp lands. 23 Mar. 1659.
3d award, 30 Apr. 1661. Easington moor.
4th award, 23 Jan. 1661. Concerning the allotments of Forster and Paxton.
5th award, 23 March 1665. Division of Easington, Cow Close, and Easington, al's Thorp Lee.
The allotments are numerous.
Hodgson's MSS.
.
Easington parish.
 
 
Book of rates.
Value of lands.
 
 
 
£.
24
9
4
£.
2901
4
4
Grey's MSS.
 
Land tax at 4s.
 
County rates at 6s. 8d.
Easington
67
14
4
 
 
 
3
9
1
 
Haswell
37
16
6
 
 
 
1
18
4
 
Hauthorn
18
14
0
 
 
 
0
17
8
 
Shotton
39
0
0
 
 
 
1
18
11½
 
Mann's MSS.
Bishop's rents.
—Shotton 24l. 18s. 2d.— Easington Col. 1l.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur.
State of population from 1660 to 1679
515
109
420
from 1760 to 1779
518
129
449
Increase
3
20
29
Burials in the last year 25.—Computed number of inhabitants 750.
. And in certain stalls, called the Pespool seats, is a fine recumbent figure of a female, in Stanhope marble; the breast and mantle scattered over with parrots, like the effigies of the Lumley family in Chester church. On the south side of the nave are stalls belonging to Horden estate, now the property of John Burdon,
esq
and opposite thereto stalls belonging to High Eden estate, the property of General Lambton
This town gives name to the deanry and ward. The rectory was united to the archdeaconry of Durbain by bishop Kirkham about the year 1255.
King's books 100l.—Yearly tenths 10l.—Proc. ep. 2l.—Bishop of Durham patron.
. In the church is preserved some old armour, consisting of an iron helmet, buckler, and other things, such as are frequently met with in the churches on the borders; which perhaps belonged to such castlemen as the manor was bound to provide by the tenure, or to the proper parochial guard; for as the steeples or towers of churches were to be kept in repair by the ancient laws of the church tenures
Vol. i. p. 93.
, as the fortress of such parish, so it is probable armour was provided for the men of such fortress.
The manor house of HORDEN is in ruins. John Fitz Marmaduke, grandson of Sir William de Lumley, one of the barons that signed the memorable letter to the pope in the 29th of Edward I. was lord of Horden
Seagar's Baron. MSS.—Collins's Peerage, vol. iii. p. 104.
. On an inquisition taken in the second year of bishop Bury, it is stated that the demesne lands of Horden, consisting of cccc acres, were worth per annum xxiiij l. 31 acres of meadow at 3 s. an acre 4l. 13s. an orchard xs. and that the villenage rents of the manor amounted to 6l. 10s. 3d. In the 16th year of bishop Hatfield, Agnes the widow of John de Menevylle held of the bishop
in capite,
for the life of lord Thomas de Holland
comes de Horden,
two parts of the manor of Horden, with a reversion expectant to William the son of John de Menevyll, by the twentieth part of a knight's fee: Also about 100 acres called Boysfield, a moiety of the manor of Pespool, rendering a spur, or 3d. and the manor of Hessewell, (except a messuage and sixty acres) held of the lord Ralph de Neville, by military service and suit of court at Brancepeth
Inq. p. m. Agnes.
. In the 28th of the same prelate, William de Menevyll died seised of the estates before mentioned; but in the inquisition it is said, he held the manor of Horden
in capite
of the bishop, and the manor of Hessewell of "the barony of Brancepeth." He left one daughter Isabella his heiress, who intermarried with William Laton, and afterwards with William Claxton
A grant of Lamesley, Horden, Blakiston, Eighton, Silksworth, and Hamildon, from Robert the son of Richard de Ravensworth, to Galfrid the son of Galfrid his nephew.—Vide Ravensworth. Orig. pen. Sir H. Liddell.
Concord of a fine levied before the justices at Durham, 1391. John de Claxton, Thomas de Claxton, and Robert de Harlosay, cl. quer. & Rad. de Lomley, knt. deforc. de decim libratis redditus cum p'tin. in Horden. Ex orig. penes Tho. Gyll ar.—
Randal's MSS.
Inq. p. m. Will. Claxton mil. 25 Langley. The manor of Horden is thus described. The scite of the manor: A close called the park, another close called Hawklawe, 30 acres, 400 acres of demesne, 23 acres of meadow, 200 of pasture; a certain wasted vill called the vill of Horden, in which are eight ruined messuages and eight cottages, 200 acres of tillage land thereto, six acres of meadow, and 200 acres of pasture, subject to a rent charge of 20l. granted by Isabel his mother.
, as appears by an inquisition taken on the decease of her mother, in the twelfth year of bishop Skirlaw
Inq. p. m. Isab. widow of William Menevylle.
. The last of the Claxton family possessed of Horden, noted in the inquisitions, was Sir Robert Claxton, knight, in the seventh year of bishop Dudley, who, leaving four coheiresses, Elizabeth the third daughter married Richard Conyers, and he being called of Horden, we presume that manor went to her in the partition of her father's estates. John Conyers, son and heir of Chr. Conyers,
esq
had special livery of this manor in the year 1614
Rudd's MSS.
; he was created a baronet the 14th of July, 1628. His son Chr. Conyers died in 1693, and was the last Conyers of Horden, that we have met with.
FLEMING FIELD, in Hatfield's Survey, is described to be in Easington moor, and the property of Walter Hawyk. In the book of rates it is joined with Shotton. Shotton, in the Boldon Book called Scotton, had seventeen villains, who performed their services like those of Boldon. The smith held fifteen acres, and the punder eight. The demesne was farmed with the increase, having two hundred sheep, under the rent of twenty-four chalders of corn, the like of oats, and twelve of barley, with four marks in money for the sheep
Scotton.
In Scottona sunt xvij villani, & unusquis
que
tenet reddit & operatur sicut villani de Boldon.
Robert Chet tenet ij bovat. & reddit v s. & facit iiij porcationes in autumno & arat & herciat unam acr. & vadit in legationibus episcopi.
Willielmus Lorimarius tenet i bovatum & reddit tres solidos & vadit in legationibus episcopi.
Saddoc j bovatam pro iijs. & vadit in legationibus.
Faber
nam bovatam de xv acr. pro suo servitio.
Tota villa reddit xj s. de cornag. & j vaccam de metrid.
Pundere Thomas tenet viij acr. & reddit xl gallinas & ccc ova & iiij s.
Dominium est ad firmam cum instauramento iij carucarum & cc ovium & reddit xxiiij celdr. de frumento & totidem de avena & xij de ordeo & pro ovibus iiij marc.—
Boldon Buke.
Nothing in Hatfield's Survey.
. The family of Denums held Shotton in the time of bishop Hatfield
Inq. p. m. Edmund de Denum, Ao 18 Hatfield, ap. Dun. Tho. de le Rener esc.
; but their estates devolving on females, the next proprietor we find in the records is John the son of Thomas de Carrowe, knight
Inq. p. m. Ao 6 Fordham, cor. W. de Bowes esc.
; who leaving a daughter his heiress, the next person noted is William Sayer, who died seised thereof in the twelfth year of bishop Skirlaw
Inq. p. m. apud Segefield, cor. F. de Claxton esc.
. In bishop Langley's time the Eures had possessions in Shotton
Inq. p. m. Rob. Eure mil. Ao 17 Langley.
. Here is a neat mansion-house belonging to the family of the Thompsons
Shotton division, 15th August, 1673, lib. M, p. 184, in the register's office: The see vacant. The freeholds are distinguished. Twenty pounds was paid to the attorney-general on his majesty's behalf for confirmation of this division.
.
LITTLE EDEN was the estate of the Hawicks, under whom several persons held portions of land within the manor, in the time of bishop Hatfield
Inq. p. m. Edmund de Denum held of Johanna the lady of Little Eden, &c. Ao 18 Hatfield, &c.—Inq. p. m. Johanna wise of Walter Hawyck, Ao 26 Hatfield.—Inq. p. m. John de Carrowe, held of Walter de Hawick 1 cumin, Ao 6 Fordham.—Inq. p. m. John Lawrenson of Seton, Ao 16 Skirlaw.
. In the eleventh year of bishop Langley, it appears this manor had been conveyed in trust, to create certain limitations to Walter Hawick for life; with remainder to Walter his son, and the heirs of his body; with remainders to William his brother, and the heirs of his body; and remainders over to Walter's right heirs: And that the manor was held of the bishop of Durham, by military service and the eighth part of a knight's fee
Ao 1 Langley, Walter Hawyck enfeoffed Robert de Wycliff and another.—Also tenements at Whetlaw, held by the twentieth part of a knight's fee.—Inq. p. m. Walter Hawick, Ao xl Langley.—Inq. p. m. Rob. Eure mil. 17 Langley.
. In the seventeenth of bishop Booth, by an inquisition taken on the death of Robert Rhodes, it is stated that he died seised of this manor in fee-tail, in right of Johan his wife, daughter and heiress of Walter Hawick; with remainder to the heirs of the body of Johan; remainder to the right heirs of John Trollop,
esq
That the manor consisted of ccc acres of land, and c acres of pasture. Trollop afterwerds died seised thereof in the first year of bishop Dudley. Sir William Bulmer purchased Little Eden, with lands in Mordon, in the reign of king Henry VIII
Pardon granted to Sir William Bulmer, for purchasing, &c. without licence. Ruthall ep.
Rudd's MSS.
In the year 1781, a whale was cast on shore within this manor, which measured in length sixteen yards two feet and seven inches, and was in circumference at the fins fourteen yards. The fin was in length four yards and two feet, and the breadth one yard and six inches. The breadth of the forked part of the tail was five yards and ten inches.—Newcastle newspapers, 9th June, 1781.
.
The manor of EDDERACRES gave name to the resident family very early; for in bishop Hatfield's Survey it is noted to be the possession of Walter de Ediacres. It was the possession of John del Halle de Elvet, who held the same of the bishop
in capite,
by homage, fealty, and thirteen shillings and four-pence rent for all services; and he dying without issue, left a sister Alicia, whose husband was the first that assumed the local name
Inq. p. m. John dell Halle, Ao 5 Hatfield, apud Dun. cor. Will. de Mordon vic.—Inq. p. m. Alicia de Ethyrdacres, Ao 2 Fordham, cor. R. de Laton esc.
.
Bishop Pudsey granted the vill of HASWELL to the monks of Finchale. The records are greatly perplexed touching this place, a confusion arising between Great and Little Haswell. In 1338, in the episcopacy of bishop Bury, Talbot de Northalverton, by his deed, granted to John the son of Adam de Menevyll and Agnes his wife, and their heirs, a rent charge out of the lands in Great Haswell, which John the son of Henry de Kellaw, by his deed, gave to Lucie de Hessewell, and which John had of the gift of Thomas son of Ralph Beanfour and Euseme his wife, by fine in the court of bishop Beaumont. This instrument shews us a race of ancient proprietors
Ex orig. penes Tho. Gyll arm.
Omnibus hoc scriptum visur. vel auditur. Talbotus de Northalverton capell's salt'm in d'no cum nup' Joh'nes fil. Henrici de Kellawe p' cartam suam dedisset Lucie de Hessewell omnes terras & tenement. in Magna Hessewell que idem Joh'nes h'uit de dono Thome fil. Radulphi Beanfour & Euseme ux'is ejus p' finem in cur. d'ni Lodywyc nup' ep'i Dun. H'end, &c. reddendo, &c. noveritis, &c. Hiis testibus Rob'to de Lambeton, Walt'o de Lodeworth, Joh. Harpyon, Walt'o de Hawyck, Jordano de M'ley, & aliis dat. ap. Hessewell, &c. 1338.
Irrotulamentum cujusd. indenture inter Joh'em pr. Dunelm. & Ric'um Catlyngson arm. Rot. B. Neville, No 66.
Haec indent. &c. testatur q'd p'dictus R. recepit de p'd'cis pr. & cap. die confecois p'sentium sexaginta sex f. &c. in plenam satisfacco'em, &c. sex solidor, &c. redditus quem p'dcus Ric'us clamat versus p'dcos pr. & capit'l'm de quatnor acr. prati in Hessewell grainge, quas pred. pr. & capit'l'm h'ent in escamb
o p' uno messuagio & triginta acris terrae cum p'tin. in territori's villarum de Magna Hessewell & Parva Hessewell, &c. Dat. 20 Sep. 1431, &c.
Morti'zacio div'sar. terrae & ten. p. pr. Dun. adquisit. concessa. Rot. A. Dudley, No 77.
In Cletlam, P'va Hessewell, Volveston, Ferye, Billingham, Acley, Morton Tinmouth, Hebarne, baronia de Elvet juxta Dun. burgo Dun. & ballio australi Dun. burgo de Elvet juxta Dun. vet'i burgo Dun. vico S'ti Egidii juxta Dun. &c. 1 Apr. 1483.
. The next record, as to date, is an inquisition taken on the death of Henry brother of Walter Freeman of Sherburn, in the fifth year of bishop Hatfield, touching lands in the vill of Haswell, set forth to be held of the lord Ralph de Neville, by fealty and suit at the court at Brancepeth. In the twenty-eighth year of the same prelate, William de Meneville died seised of the manor of Hessewell, held of the barony of Brancepeth, by military service and suit at Brancepeth court. As observed in the account given of Horden, his daughter Isabella married Claxton, and carried the family possessions to that house
Rot. B. Neville, No 66. Itrotulam. cujusdem indenturae, &c. being an exchange between the convent of Durham and Rich. Catlyngson of Durham,
esq
of certain rents issuing out of Haswell grainge, and Great and Little Haswell.—
Randal's MSS.
.
PESPOOL was the estate of Edmund de Denum, which he held of the bishop
in capite,
by homage and fealty, and 13 s. 4d. rent. He failing in issue, his estates descended to four coheiresses his sisters
Inq. p. m. Edmund de Denum, Ao 7 Hatfield, apud Dun. cor. R. de Bowes vic.
. In bishop Hatfield's Survey it is stated, that the lady Isabella de Claxton then held the manor formerly William de Denum's, and that she rendered to the bishop for the same a pair of spurs; that she also held Boisfield, paying one shilling rent. The large possessions of the Claxtons, as observed under Horden, passed to the Conyers.
HAWTHORN, in the time of bishop Beaumont, was the estate of the Merleys and Beanfours; and by an inquisition taken in the tenth year of that prelate, it appears that Ralph de Merley died seised of lands there, held of William de Merley
in capite,
by homage and fealty, and a pound of cumin, and other lands held of the heirs of Ralph Beanfour, rendering a pound of pepper, or 8 d. and also the manor of Broomy-whome, which he held, paying 18s. to the hospital at Allerton
Johan widow of John de Merley died seised of the manor of Brymmingholme by the feoffment of John to the heirs of his body, and in default remainder to his right heirs for ever; which manor is held of William de Lambton, charged with 13s. per annum to the hospital of Alverton and 12d. to Gilbert Eglin and Eliz. his wife, and the heirs of Elizabeth. Also a close called the Waste, near the said manor, held of the bishop
in capite,
and 13s. 4d. rent. Also sixteen oxgangs of land in Hawthorn, fourteen of which were held of Ra. Lomley,
esq
and the rest of John de Kirkby, Alicia wife of Robert Barryarde, and Joan wife of William Pegge, heiresses. Ao 12 Skirlaw, apud Dun. cor. T. de Claxton esc.
. By a succeeding inquisition, Broomy-whome is stated to be held of William de Lambton. We also find the families of Lumley, Darcy, and Menevylle possessed of estates at Hawthorn in bishop Skirlaw's time
Inq. p. m. Tho. de Menvyll. Lands at Hathorn, held of Rob. de Darcy, Ao 17 Skirlaw, apud Dun. cor. R. Coniers chiv. esc.
: And afterwards the family of Claxtons held large possessions there
Inq. p. m. Isab. ux. W. Claxton, Ao 15 Langley.—Inq. p. m. W. Claxton mil. Ao 25 Langley, &c. A recovery against Sir John Lumley, lord Lumley, for the manors of Hawthorn, &c. Ao 15 Tunstall.
Rudd's MSS.
. In Hawthorn arose one of those instances of the bishop's exercising royal jurisdiction within his principality, observed in the annals of the prelates, by his claiming royal fish cast upon this coast
Bishop Fordham awarded his commission, dated 4 Nov. 1387, directed to Roger de Fulthorpe and others, flating
"Quia datum est nobis intelligi quod licet wreccum maris cete sturgeones porpeis et thulepolts per maris ten periem ad terram per costeram maris infra precinctum nostre regie libertatis Dunelm. projecta nobis et ecclesie nostre Dunelm. virtute n're regie libertatis tanquam proficuum regale aebeant pertinere nosque et predecessores nostri episcopi Dunelm. a tempore quo non extat memoria hujusmodi wreccum cete sturgiones po
peis et thulepolles habere consueverimus"
And stating that Robert Brown of Hawthorn, and certain other malefactors, had seized and carried away
"quendam piscem nostram vocat porpeis precij centum solidorum ad terram nuper inf
a precinctum nostre regie libertatis predicte per ma
is temperium apud Hawthorne projectum & ad nos ratione ejusdem regie libertates tanquam prosicuum regale pertinentem;"
appoints them four three, or two of them his justices to enquire by the oath of good and lawful men of his county, the names of the malefactors,
"et de transgressione predicta p
enius veritatem et ad candem transgressionem audiend. & terminand. secundum legem & consetudinem regni Anglie & n're regie libertatis."
And commands the sheriff to summon a jury for the above purpose.
Records at Durham.
The town of Hawthorn is pleasantly situated on a dry hill, within half a mile of the sea: The shore is rocky, and broken into a multitude of deep caverns: The offing is full of rocks and shoals, so that in stormy weather it is tremendous to mariners, whilst the heavy breaker shakes the sounding coast. In the mouth of a deep and narrow creek, where the rocks are the most broken, rugged, and romantic, admiral Milbanke built a summer retreat, which he called Sailor's Hall; at high tide it almost hangs over the waves, and looks upon the most stormy and shaken part of the shore. The placidness of a summer evening's calm, when the moon is reflected on the smooth bosom of the ocean, is highly pleasing to the contemplative eye; but when the storm lifts the distracted waves, with a horrid gloom confounds the elements, and mixes the spray even with the clouds; when the winds groan in the caverns, and the hoarse billows thunder along the beach; when the shrill cries of distress and wreck strike the ear from wretches without succour; when the affrighted cattle bellowing leave the hills, and driving showers sweep the disconsolate landscape, little remains to make such a situation eligible. On the south side of Hawthorn-dean is an eminence called the Beacon Hill, where fires were formerly raised, to keep mariners at a distance from this dangerous coast.
In this part of the country are retained some ancient customs evidently derived from the Romans, particularly that of dressing up a figure of Ceres during harvest, which is placed in the field whilst the reapers are labouring, and brought home on the last evening of reaping, with music and great acclamation. After this a feast is made, called the
mell supper,
from the ancient sacrifice of mingling the new meal.
The Parish of
PITTINGTON.
The next adjoining parish towards the west is Pittington. This was one of the places given by bishop William de Carilepho to the monastery of Durham, and confirmed to them by bishop Richard de Marisco, in the second year of his episcopacy.
The church
Pittington vicarage.
This is an ancient vicarage: The church is dedicated to St Lawrence. It is in the deanry of Easington, a discharged living, and a peculiar to the dean and chapter.
Clear yearly value 48l 3s 11d—Tenths 1l 9s 5d—Proc. ep. 6s—Synd. 11s— Bishop Crewe's legacy 10l— Real value 90l.
A modus of three pounds twelve shillings is paid at Old Michaelmas to the vicar of Pittington, by the owner of Ludworth, in lieu of all vicarial tithes in kind.
VICARS.
Richardus Presb. de —, 1147
Peter de Derlyngton, 1230
Eudo, 1235
Yvo, 1285
William de Billingham, 1297
John de Dalton, 1309
Hugh de Corbrig, 1329
Thomas de Throcklington, 1340
Sir Hugh de Prendstret, 1345
Richard de Aukeland, 1356
William Baty, 1358, p. res. Aukeland
Reginald Porter, 1388
John Appelby, 1407
William Winlawton, 1419
John Gresmire, 1422
Robert Bates, 1439
Willam Maymorne, 1452, p. res. Bates
William Laybourn, 1458
George Johnson, 1481
Thomas Patenson, A. M. 1507, p. res. Johnson
William Greffeson, A. M. 1499, p. res. Patenson
Thomas Patenson, A. M. 1507, p. res. Greffeson
Robert Jackson, 1510, p. res. Patenson
Ralph Whitehead, 1528, p. m. Jackson
William Whitehead
Sir Robert Forrest, pres. 1530, p. res. Whitehead
Nicholas Merley, S. T. B. 1548, p m. Forrest
Roger Watson, S. T. P. 1560, p. depriv. Merley
Robert Murrey, 1562, p. m. Watson
William Murrey, cl. 1594, p. m. Murrey
Richard Thursbye, A. M. 1621, p. res. Murrey
George Shaw, A. M. 1631, p. res. Thursbye
Chr. Thompson, A. M. p. m. Shawe
Chr. Thompson, A. M. p. m. Thompson
John Powell, A. M. 1717, p. m. Thompson
William Thompson, A. B. 1718, p. res. Powell
Arthur Shepherd, 1730, p. m. Thompson
Samuel Viner, 1770, p. m. Shepherd
James Deason, ol. 1772, p. res. Viner.
Randal's MSS.
There were two chantries in this church, one dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the other to St Katherine.
Copyhold book, E. p. 534, halm. apud Houghton, 10 November, 1472.
Thomas Hesildon gave to the chaplain of St Mary's chantry in Petyngton, one cottage with its appurtenances, to be held by him and his successors chaplains, and died; and Mary his widow married John Colthard Scot, and he sold the aforesaid cottage to John Semer, contrary to the will of the donor.—
Ibid.
John Kirkman, the last incumbent of St Mary's chantry, had at the suppression, Ao 1547, a pension of four pounds per annum, which he received in 1553.—
Willis.
MONUMENTS IN THE CHURCH.
On a marble within the altar rails.
Sub hoc Marmore quiescit: RADULPHI SHIPPERDSON, arm. Quod mortale fuit; Animae (quâ Nec Ecclesia Anglicana magis reverentem, Nec patria fideliorem habuit) Supremo Resurrectionis die uniendum. Mariti, Parentis, Patris-familias exemplum, Quale Uxores, Liberi, Servi optarent, Amicis et Popularibus reliquit imitandum. Obiit xvj. Junij, MDCCXIX. Ann. Aetat XLII.
On another marble before the altar, all in capital letters,
Hic situs est Thomas Hall armiger de Ellimoire-hall qui trigefimum Quintum aetatis suae annum Mediam sc. humani cursus metam Vix attingens vitae integer Defunctus est humani laboris 10 die Aprilis anno salutis MDCLXXX.
Juxta jacet Elizabetha filia ejus unica & haeres, Thomae Conyers uxor merito dilectissima & prole laeta, cui sorores invidae praeripuere diem & pulcherrimam (dum licuit aspectare) formam libilina praepropere donarunt animam caelo semper maturam & ornatam. Ipsa lubens reddidit suis exuviis olim redonandam. Ea morum suavitate erga omnes vixit, ut videretur utriusq. sexus delitiae & amor, sui ornamentum ingens & exemplar a paucis imitabile: Ablata tandem ex oculis singulorum excitavit defiderium & querimoniam suis tulit damnum irreparabile Obiit 18 Julij, MDCLXXXXV. Aetat. 24.
Etiam hic jacet Susanna filia Henrici Firebrace et uxor. Thomae Hall. obiit 28 Nov. 1715.
Hic jacet Elizabetha uxor, Geor. Baker, armig. et filia Tho. Conyers, armig. Obiit 5o die Julii, 1725. Aetat. 35.
Pittington parish.
Book of rates.
Value of lands.
 
£.
s.
d.
£.
s.
d.
 
18
5
6
2319
13
0
Grey's MSS.
Dean and chapter rents:
—First prebend tithe 2l 16s 8d—Fourth prebend tithe 2l—Shadforth tithe 7l 6s 8d —Hetton tithe 1l 13s 4d—North Sherburn tithe 7l—Haswell tithe 1l 3s 4d—South Sherburn tithe 3l 10s— Ludworth tithe 1l 7s 8d—Pittington tenements, cottages, quarry, mill, and hallgarth 41l 3d
Bishop's rents:
— Sherburn 23l 1s 3d—Shadforth 20l 13s 3d
 
Land tax at 4s. in the pound.
County rates at 6s. 8d.
Pittington
47
1
5½
 
2
7
4
Sherburn
20
1
0
 
0
18
10
Shadforth
41
4
8
 
1
17
6
 
 
 
 
Sherburn house
1
0
4
Registered estates:
Anthony Huntley 5l—George Errington 7l 10s—
Mann's MSS.
 
Bap.
Mar.
Bur
State of population from 1660 to 1679
 
 
 
from 1769 to 1779
 
 
 
Number of burials in the last year —Computed number of inhabitants
stands on elevated ground, with a spacious yard. There are marks of antiquity in this edifice, which has apparently undergone much mutilation and frequent repairs. The chancel is nearly fourteen paces in length and six in width: On the north side are two arches, now built up, which shew it formerly was of greater extent. The east end is lighted by three long narrow windows; but to the south is a large window, ornamented with tracery. The chancel is separated from the nave by a heavy round arch without ornament. The body or nave of the church has two side ailes, and is in length about eighteen paces, the ailes being little more than three paces wide: The south aile has undergone much alteration; the pillars have been restored in modern times, and support five pointed arches: Three windows, of two lights each, under pointed arches, give light to this side. The north aile is also formed by a row of four pillars; that to the east is flat, supporting a pointed arch; the other three are of the old Saxon architecture, short, with plain capitals, the shafts fluted and otherwise ornamented: They support four circular arches, ornamented with the zig-zag mouldings, and seem to be of nearly the same date as the nave of Durham cathedral: This aile is lighted with two windows under pointed arches. The tower is low, and supported by buttresses, forming an oblong square of five paces east and west, and seven paces north and south. In the yard are two remarkable monuments of personages unknown. The one is the recumbent effigy of a man in armour
Vide cut of monument in Whitworth church yard, exactly similar to this: One of the effigies in Chester church is also like it.
, the visor having only a transverse gash or aperture: The sword in the right hand, with the point elevated to the visor, and the shield on the left arm covering the breast. The other is a stone in the coffin form, inscribed in the Saxon character, with the following distich:
✚ NOMEN ABENS CRISTI TVMVLO TVMVLATVR IN ISTO
✚ QVI TVMVLVM CERNIT COMMENÐET CVM PRECE CRISTO.
Near the church-yard are the remains of the hall, built by Hugh Whitehead, the last prior and first dean of Durham. There are the foundations of several adjoining buildings, which shew that this was a large and commodious mansion, having orchard grounds and several other conveniences
Vide Rot. E Langley, No 38, in dorso de Gresmire.
.
In this parish is the elegant mansion-house of Geo. Baker,
esq
called Ellimore Hall; and a neat country seat, the residence of Ralph Shipperdson,
esq
called Hallgarth.
LUDWORTH gave name to a resident family so early as the time of bishop Bury: Walter de Ludworth, knight, died seised of the manor in the third year of bishop Hatfield, together with four carucates of land, held of the bishop
in capite,,
by the quarter part of a knight's fee. He also held a messuage and sixteen acres of land there, of the prior of Durham
Inq. p. m. Ao 3 Hatfield.
. Bishop Langley, in the year 1422, granted his licence to Thomas Holden, knight, to fortify his house of Ludworth; which is situated on the brow of a hill, at the head of the valley in which Shadforth lies. By the remains of the tower it appears to have been a gloomy miserable mansion, whose loop holes and casements almost totally excluded the light of day; which is more singular, as bishop Langley exhibited many elegant pieces of architecture
Tho. &c. Sciatis q'd de gra. n'ra. concessimus & lic. dedimus p' nob' & succ. n'ris quantum in nob. est dil'co armig'o n'ro Tho. Holden q'd ipe man'ium suum de Ludworth in co. Dun. muro de Petra & calce firmare kirnellare batillare et turrillare & man'ium illud sic firmatum kirnellatum batellatum et turrillatum tenere possit sibi et he'ib's suis imp'p'm si'e occ'oe v'l impedimento n'ri vel succ. n'ror Justic. esc. vic. aut al. ballivor. seu min. n'ror v'l succ. n'rorum quor. cunq. In c. &c. Pat. D. &c. 6 d. Aug. an. p' n'ri sexto decimo. — Rot. E. Langley in dorso, No . 50.
Lic. pr. Dun. &c. Rot. E. Langley, No 14. Quinquaginta et sex acr. terrae et quatuor acr. prati cum p'tin in Ludworth, &c.—
Ibid.
. In 1428, the prior of Durham had licence to exchange lands acquired in Ludworth, with Thomas Holden, knight, for land in Wyndigates, West Merrington, and the borough of Elvet. Ludworth became the estate of the Lumleys, and Sir John Lumley, lord Lumley, suffered a recovery of the manor in the fifteenth year of bishop Tunstall
Cursitors Rolls—Rudd's MSS.
.
SHADFORTH is a long village, lying in a deep valley. In the ancient records it is mentioned as being a member of Querringdonshire
Queringdonshire.
In Queringdonshire, sunt in
North Sherburne
&
Shadeferde
&
Cazehope
lj villani et unusquis
que
tenet reddit et operatur, sicut illi de Boldon.
Praeterea in
North Sherburn
tenet Ulkillus ij bovatas pro xl d. de firma et vadit in legation. episcopi.
In Shaldefirde tenet Thomas ij bovatas pro xl d. de firma et vadit in legationibus episcopi.
In Cazhope tenet Willielmus de Kent iiij bovatas pro dimid marc. et vadit in legationibus episcopi.
In South Sherburn tenet Christianus Cementarius lx acr. quas episcopus ei dedit de mora pro v s. et ij bovatas quae suerunt Arkilli pro xiiij d. set de his quietus erit dum fuerit in servitio episcopi de opere cementarij.
Watlingus cum Savia uxor. ejus tenet iiij bovatas et redd. dimid marc.
Praeterea v firmarii tenent ibid. unusquis
que
xij acr. et reddit ij s. et j gallinam et xx ova et facit iiij porcationes in autumno et arant de unaqua
que
carucata eorum j acr.
Praeterea sunt ibid. x cotemanni quorum unusquis
que
tenet vj acr. et operantur a festo S. Petri ad vincula usq. ad festum S. Martini duobus diebus in ebdomeda et a festo S. Martini usq. ad festum S. Petri ad vincula uno die in ebdomeda.
Faber tenet ibid. xij acras pro ferramentis ij carucarum fabricandis.
Punderus de Querringdonshire tenet xx acras et reddit vj
xx
gallinas et mille ova.
Dominium de Sherburn est ad firmam cum instauramento ij carucarum et ij hercariorum et reddit vj libras.
Dominium iiij carucarum de Queringdon et oves cum pastura sunt in manu episcopi.
Praepositus tenet ibid. j bovatam pro servitio suo.
Faber xij acr. pro servitio suo.
Queringdonshire reddit lxiiij s. de cornagio & iij vaccas de metride.—
Boldon Buke.
Queringdon
Magister hospitalis de Sherburn tenet Grang. de Queringdon, cum dominic. pratis et pastur. ad firmam, et redd. per annum ad term. S. Mart. & Pent. xviijli. xviij s.
Cassop
Thomas Clerk de Elvet tenet j mess et iiij bovat. terrae contin. xv acr. quond'm Johannis de Birtley et ante Johannis Freman et vadit in legationibus d'ni episcopi et redd. per annum vj s. viij d.
Shald-fird
Liberi tenentes
Radulphus de Eure miles tenet j mess. et vij acr. et dimid terrae ibid. vocat. Thomasland, quond'm Thomae de Tesedale per servic. sorin. et vadit in legationibus episcopi redd. x d.
Isaacus Bonner tenet, &c. per servic. praedict. Haeres Johan. Freman, &c. per servic. praedict.
Terrae bond.
Robertus Aleynson tenet j mess. et ij bovat. bond. bovat. contin. xv acr. et redd. per annum xvj s. viz. per bovat. viij s. pro operibus. Et ad fest. Purif. pro scatpenys xix. Et ad fest. S. Martini pro scatpenys, vocat per tenentes maltpenys ut in libro de Boldon xv d. Et pro averpenys ad ij fest. S. Cuthbertis & natal. S. Johannis Baptistae xij d. & solebat operari sicut illi de Boldon in omnibus & pro illis operibus ultra reddit. praedict. solvit pro arar. ad fest. S. Michaelis xvj d. & pro operibus autumnalibus xij d. & pro averrepes ad idem fest. S. Michaelis xij d. Et pro quolibet hom an. xxi. 12 d. & quolibet pagetto infra aetatem pra
dict ad idem fest. vj d. in toto xxiij s. iiij d. Idem Robertus & xv alii tenentes tenent, &c. et faciunt et redd. ut supra. Et quilibet praedictorum bond. solv. ad fest. Purif. B. Mariae ultra sum' praedict. vj bz. aven. et ad fest. Natal. D'ni ij gallin. et ad fest. Paschae x ova. Praedicti Tenentes red. inter se pro una vacca de metrich ad fest. Martini vi s. Pro cornag. ad fest. S. Cuthberti in Septembr. xxv s vj d.—Pro wodlades ad fest. natal. S. Johannis Baptistae xij s.—lidem tenent inter se com'un furnum ibid. & redd. p' annum ij s.—Tolnet cervis. et redd. per annum ij s. viij d.—Pro tertia parte officij punder quae soleb't reddere p' annum x s. modo vj s. viij d.
Cotag.
Robertus Taillor tenet j cot. &c. et redd. &c. pro operibus ix d.—Margareta del Hall tenet, &c. quod suit quond'm forg. villae, &c.
Terrae scaccarij.
Robertus Aleinson cum aliis, &c.
Sherburn
Liberi tenentes.
Johannes de Killerby tenet j mes. et ij bovat. terrae quond'm Alani de Shirburn et vadit. legation. d'ni episcopi bovat. contin. xv acr. et redd per annum iij s. iiij d.—Johannes de Hesilden, &c.
Terrae bond.
Stephanus de Cashop tenet j mes. et ij bovat. terrae et redd. per annum ad iiij term. pro operib' xvj s. Et pro scatpenys ad fest. Purif. xix d. Et pro maltpenys ad fest. S. Martini xv d. Et pro averpenys ad ij festa S. Cuthberti et festum S. Johannis Baptistae xij d. Et pro Wodlades ad festum S. Johannis Baptistae viij d Et solebat operari sicut illi de Boldon, et pro operibus ultra redditum praedictum pro arrur. ad fest. S. Michaelis xvj d Et pro operibus autumnal. xij d. Et pro averpenys ad idem fest. vj d.—In toto praeter aven. gali
. et ova. xxiij s. iiij d.
Johannes de Herington et ix alii tenentes tenent xi mess. et xxij bovat. terrae et faciunt et reddunt ut supra.
Et sunt ibid. vj bond. et dimid. dimiss. ad penyferme quorum quilibet redd. p' annum xx s.
Praedicti tenentes redd. inter se pro j vacca de metrich. ad fest. S. Martini vj s. Pro cornag ad fest. S. Cuthberti in Septembr. xxiiij s. Pro tolnet cervis. per annum ij s. viij d. Pro officio punder vj s. viij d.— Et quaelibet ij bovat. terrae bond. redd. per annum ad fest. Natal. D'ni ij gallin. et ad fest. Pasch. x ova. et ad fest. Purif. B. Mariae vj bz. aven. de scat.—lidem tenent inter se commun. furnum ibid. et redd. per annum xij d.—Commun. sorig. ibid. et redd. per annum x d.
Cotag.
mma Lymebrynner tenet, &c. et redd. pro operibus, &c.—Thomas Nalum & vij alii tenentes, &c.—Omnes tenentes ibid. tenent inter se j plae. ad forg. cum incremento, &c.
Terrae
ceurij.
Praedicti tenentes tenent, &c. lxi acr.— xiiij bond. de Shirburn redd. per ann. pro v acr. et j rod terrae apud Blakhamside v s. ij d.—Praepositus villae ibid. qui pro tempore fuerit, tenet j rod terrae sup' le Brokes pertin. ad officium suum & redd. per annum ij d.—Magister hospitalis de Sherburn tenet j parcell. pastu
. dictae villae inclus. infra pratum suum ibid. et redd. per annum dictae villae xij d. et d'no episcopo vj d.
Hatfield's Survey.
; and in the Boldon Book it is stated, that Shadforth, North Sherburn, and Cassop had fifty-one villains, whose services were similar to those of Boldon. In Shadforth only one free tenant (Thomas) is named, who held two oxgangs of land, rendering 40 d. fee-farm rent, and serving on the bishop's embassies. In bishop Hatfield's Survey we find that Sir Ralph Eure, knight, had acquired the lands, of Thomas de Tesedale
Inq. p. m. Marg. ux. Tho. de Tesedale, Ao 5 Bury.
; and there were two other free tenants, Isaac Bonner and the heir of John Freeman. Sixteen bond tenants held each a messuage and two oxgangs of land, each oxgang containing fifteen acres, rendering 16s. a year, to wit, 8s. per oxgang for work; and at the feast of the Purification 19d. for scat or scacpennys, and at the feast of St Martin for scatpennys, called by the tenants maltpennys, 15d. and for averpennys at the feast of St Cuthbert and St John the Baptist 12d. They performed their labour like the bond tenants of Boldon in all things; and beside the rents before stated, they paid for plow money at Michaelmas 16d. for harvest work 12d. and for averpennys at Michaelmas 12d. for every man of the family 12d. and for those under age 6 d. Also each bond tenant rendered to the lord six bushels of oats, at the feast of the Nativity two hens, and at Easter ten eggs; for a milch cow they paid amongst them 6 s. for cornage, 25s. 6d. for woodloads 12s. for the common furnace 2s. for toll, &c. 2s. 8d. and for the third part of the office of punder 6s. 8d.
In the twenty-ninth year of bishop Hatfield we find a resident family had assumed the local name
Inq. p. m. Joh. de Shadforth.
. The family of Eure or Ever held their possessions here for several generations
Inq. p. m. R. Eure mil. Ao 17 Langley.
Shadforth division, 26th August, 1635, Lib. K. register's office, p. 273.—
Hodgson's MSS.
.
NORTH and SOUTH SHERBURNE are noted in the Boldon Book as members of Queringdonshire, and probably took their names from the shire brook or burn. Ulkillus held two oxgangs of land in North Sherburn, paying 40d. and serving on embassies. In South Sherburn, Christian Cementarius held 60 acres of moor land of the bishop's gift, rendering 5s. and two oxgangs of land, which were Arkills, for 14d. but which rents were not demanded whilst he served the bishop
in opere cementarij,
perhaps as seedsman, or sower of corn on his demesne. Watlingus, with Savia his wife, held four oxgangs, rendering half a mark. Besides those were five farmers, who held each twelve acres, rendering 2 s. one hen, and twenty eggs, making four portions of seed land in autumn, and plowing one acre for each carucate of land. Also ten cottagers, who each held six acres, and wrought from the feast of St Peter ad vincula, to the feast of St Martin two days in each week, and the other half of the year one day in the week. The smith held twelve acres. The demesnes of Sherburn were then in farm, with the increase, rendering vi l. The services of the bond tenants in Sherburn, as set forth in Hatfield's Survey, are similar to those in Shadforth.
There is an ancient seat house belonging to the family of Tempests at Sherburn
Sherburn division, 26th August, 1635. Lib. K. in the register's office, p. 262.
.
SHERBURN HOSPITAL
Among the pious works of the opulent prelate Hugh de Puteaco, or Pudsey, there is none surviving to this age of such importance as the foundation of Sherburn hospital, designed for the reception of sixty-five poor lepers, with a master and other officers to superintend the same, which great and godly work he effected about the year 1181, when that dreadful malady prevailed grievously in this land. He dedicated the house to Christ, the Blessed Virgin, Lazarus, and his sisters Mary and Martha
Shyrburne—Clarus sons Lat. Lel.—Scyreburna, Saxon.—Here is an hospital of poore men, which Hugh Puteac, the joly byshop of Durham, builded in the reigne of K. Hen. II.—
Lambarde's Topog. Dict. p.
326.
Our Saxon ancestors dedicated many buildings to what they esteemed pious, and very few to charitable uses solely. Bishop Tanner has not noticed so many as six established by them; but we ought not to conclude, from this omission, that they were regardless of their fellow creatures labouring under the various calamities incident to human nature, who were unable to help themselves. In general, the poor were supported by the religious societies, and the members of each were enjoined by the rules of their respective orders, and the express directions of their founders and benefactors, to relieve the wants and distresses not only of the necessitous and infirm in their neighbourhood, but of travelling people also. From neglect or the nauseousness and infection of diseases, the wretchedness of the poor would perhaps not be sufficiently relieved, which induced the benevolent to found hospitals for the more immediate and greater relief of distempered objects. Within 100 years after the Conquest, 59 hospitals were erected in this kingdom; and before the end of the reign of Henry III. they were increased to 131.
The leprosy was a disorder very prevalent in Europe during the tenth and eleventh centuries; and its spreading was doubtless the cause of establishing many hospitals. Some persons have conjectured that in Christendom they amounted to 15000 in number; but without assenting to so vague a calculation, it is certain, that in England there was hardly a large city, or a capital town, near which there was not one at least of these lazar-houses erected: We indeed find none within the walls, for as the distemper was so violent as to be judged infectious, the afflicted persons were denied all public commerce.
Hospitals were originally designed for the relief and entertainment of travellers upon the road, and particularly of pilgrims, and therefore were generally built by the way-side.—
Burn's Eccl. Law, vol. ii. p.
455.
From the situation of Sherburn Hospital we may conjecture, that it was partly intended for this benevolent purpose, as well as for the reception of lepers.
The leprosy was much more common in this part of the globe formerly than at present, and perhaps near half the hospitals that were in England were for lepers. At the five gates of Norwich were five houses of this sort; and lepers were so numerous in the twelfth century, that by a decree in the Lateran Council under pope Alexander III. 1179, they were empowered to erect churches for themselves, and to have their own ministers (lepers, we may suppose) to officiate in them. This shews at once how infectious and offensive their distemper was; and on this account, in England,
where a man was a leper, and dwelling in a town, and would come into the church or among his, neighbours, where they were assembled, to talk with them to their annoyance or disturbance, a writ lay▪
de leproso amovendo.
—
Fitzh. Nat. Brev. p.
520, 521.
What follows is remarkable. The writ is for those lepers who appear to the sight of all men that they are lepers, by their voice and their sores the putrefaction of their flesh, and by the smell of them. And so late as the reign of Edw. VI. multitudes of lepers seem to have been in England; for in 1 Edw. VI. c. 3, in which directions are given for carrying the poor to the places where they were born, &c. we read the following clause:
Provided always that all leprous and poor bedrid creatures may; at their liberty, remain and continue in such houses appointed for lepers or bedrid people as they now be in.
—
Burn's Hist. Poor Laws, p.
68.
In the reign of Hen. I. the leprosy (by some called
Elephantiasis
) ran by infection all over England, and it is believed that the disease first came into this island out of Egypt, which more than once had spread itself into Europe, first in the days of Pompey the Great, afterwards under Heraclius, and at other times, as may be seen in history, but never (so far as I have read) did it before that time appear in England.—
Camd. Brit. Leicestersh. p.
417,
edit.
1772.—
Mr Allan's notes preceding his printed collections relating to Sherburn Hospital.
.
The present buildings retain little of the ancient order: In the chapel only, we find remains of the age in which the founder lived. It appears that the hospital was destroyed by the Scots, and restored by Thomas de Hessewell, the master thereof, who held that office between the years 1330 and 1339
E. Regist. 2o Dec. & Cap. Dun. Bibl Cotton. Julius, fo. 99.
Thomas de Hessewelle rector. ecclesiae de Seggefeld et magister hospitalis de Sherburn idem hospitale restituit auxit &c. Scotorum depredationibus et encendiis, &c. collapsum. pro quo institutentur duo capellani ultra numerum consuct. an. 1329.
MASTERS OF SHERBURN HOSPITAL.
The first person appointed to preside over this hospital was Ernald or Arnald, chaplain to bishop Hugh, and probably put in at the foundation, 1184.
Arnald de Anclent
Ernaldus de Aclent sined to the king in 140 palsreys, with Sackbut's, Lorain's, Giltspur's, and Peacock's crests, such as would be for his credit.—Madox Hist. Exch. quart. edit. vol. i. p. 273. 14th king John, 1213.
occurs about 1200, who, under the title of rector of the house of lepers, made a composition with Philip Ballon, parson of Bishop-Middleham, concerning the tithes of the township of Garmondsway, in the year 1203, How long he continued we know not.
Vide Burton's Monasticon Ebor. p. 354.
Sir Martin de Sancta Cruce is the next we meet with, who is sometimes stiled proctor, and sometimes rector in the year 1245. To Sherburne house he bequeathed his
Argenteus Textus
Argenteus Textus
is mentioned by several authors to signify the New Testament; it was wr
tten also in golden letters, and carefully preserved in the churches.—
Jacob's Law Dictionary.
, and
Capa de panno ad aurum. scilicet Baudekin
Baudekin (Baldicum
and
Baldekinum)
cloth of
Baudekin
or gold: It is said to be the richest cloth, now called brocade, made with gold and silk, or tissue upon which figures in silk, &c. were embroidered anno 4 Henry VIII. c. 6.
Erat pann
s
rigidus, plur
atoque opere intertextus.
But some writers account it only cloth of silk.
,
cum Vestimento p'enario de panno Yspanioe ad aurum,
and these he would have remain in the hospital: He also assigned ten shillings a year for a pitance
(pitancia)
on his anniversary, wherever he should have sepulture
Grant of lands at Wytton-le-Weare from William de Hamsterley to Martin de Sancta Cruce, master of Sherburn house.
Release of an annual rent of five shillings a year, from Alexander de Kellawe to the master and brethren of Sherburn house, for Raceby near Garmundsway.
. It appears he was buried at Sherburn; for on the 14th of September, being the day of the exaltation of the holy cross, all the brethren and sisters had that pitance
Pitance, a little repast, or resection of fish or flesh, more than the common allowance.
in memory of him every year, till bishop Kellaw reduced it to five shillings and five pence.
Master Roger de Seyton probably succeeded him; he occurs by the name of
custos
about the year 1269 or 1270
Release of common of pasture in Smallmor, from Agnes the wife of Robert de Rummeseye, to the master and brethren of Sherburn hospital.
.
William de Insula was the next rector in 1302.
Lambert de Torkyngham
Obligatio abbatis de Alba-landa custodi domus de Schirburn pro decimis garbarum de New biging et Staynton, 1317.
, otherwise Tricklingham, succeeded before 1317; for in the month of August that year he as
custos,
lets the tithes of grain in Newbiging and Staynton to William abbot of Blanchland.
Thomas de Hessewell
Grant of lands in South Sherburn (now called Tann-hills), from John Harpyn to the master and brethren of Sherburn hospital, 1331.
was in possession of the house before 1330. He is the first we meet with called by the name of master.
Thomas de Nevill succeeded in November, 1339. Died before the 18th of July, 1362, and was succeeded in the prebend of Bole, in the church of York, by Adrianus Cardinalis.
Alan de Shuttlyngton, otherwise Shotlyngton, presbyter, on the death of Thomas Nevill was collated by bishop Hatfield to this hospital, the 15th of August, 1362.
Thomas de Bernolby, chaplain, on Shuttlyngton's resignation was collated by bishop Hatfield the 17th of August, 1367: He occurs again as master the 24th of September, 1380, which is all we know of him.
John de Waltham
Grant of free-warren in Sherburn, Whitwell, Garmondsway, and Ebchester, (by John Fordham, bishop of Durham) to the master and brethren of Sherburn hospital, 8th May, 1384.
we presume succeeded by the collation of bishop Fordham. He was master May 8th, 1384, when he had liberty of free-warren granted him in all his demesne lands of Sherburn, Whitwell, Garmondsway, and Ebchester; and on the 10th of July following he had the bishop's licence to receive a messuage with the appurtenances in Ebchester for the better support of the hospital, (notwithstanding the act of mortmain) from Sir John de Neville, knight lord of Raby. Resigned the hospital before the 26th of June, 1391, (it is apprehended rather in 1388) on being made bishop of Sarum by papal provision.
John Burgeys
Carta de licentia pro domino Johanne de Neville domino de Raby, alias concessio terrarum in Ebchestre hospitali de Sherburne, 10 Julii, 1284. E. Rot. Fordham, Sch. 6, No. 5.
dean of Lanchester, 1383, which he resigned: Occurs master of this hospital before June 1391, and probably in 1388, was removed by bishop Skirlaw for mal-administration.
Alan de Newark, clerk,
Grant of the mastership of Sherburn hospital to Alan de Newark, by W Skirlaw, bishop of Durham, Jan. 3, 1403.
was collated by bishop Skirlaw the 3d of January, 1403, on the removal of John Burgeys. His last act, whilst master of the hospital, was granting a long lease of some lands in Gateshead to John Boterell, dated the 1st of May, 1309.
John Newton, of Litchfield diocese, presbyter, was collated to the hospital by bishop Langley, the 19th of January, 1409, void by the cession of Alan de Newark: Was a bad man, and by granting corrodies, annual pensions, and other iniquitious practices, he almost ruined the hospital estate, and shamefully suffered the buildings and out-houses to go to decay: He seems to have been a favourite of bishop Langley, who did not see, or at least connived at his faults and ill conduct in the management of this house.
Nicholas Dixon, presbyter, was one of the executors of Ralph Neville earl of Westmerland in 1424. Collated by bishop Langley to this hospital the 28th of November, 1427.
John Marchall, LL. B. on the resignation of Nicholas Dixon was collated to the mastership by bishop Langley the 23d of July, 1433. The last time he occurs as master is the 18th of April, 1458, when he was fined for not doing suite and service at the bishop's halmot court at Wolsingham.
When Marchall died or resigned we cannot find. Alexander Lyghe came in about 1490; from 1433 to 1490, a period of fifty-seven years, is a space too great to be allowed him, though he might die an old man: His immediate successor is yet unknown, there being no episcopal registers remaining from the death of Langley till bishop Fox's time.
Alexander Lyghe
Collation of John Elles to to the vicarage of Kellow, 1499, on the nomination of Lyghe.
, Lye, Legh, or Lee, for so we find his name variously spelt, was employed in many affairs by king Richard III. He was collated to Sherburn hospital by bishop Sherwood about 1489, being then rector of Houghton-le-Spring. Also made temporal chancellor of Durham by the same bishop 1490; soon after, viz. the next year, was struck with the palsy, and had a coadjutor (Robert Kent, D. D.) assigned to manage the affairs of the hospital and his church at Houghton, which he resigned the 3d of December, 1500, and the hospital in 1501; had an annual pension of 60l. assigned out of the profits of Houghton living during his life
It was customary for bishops to grant incumbents grown old and infirm, and for past services, the favour of resigning, provided the next successor should pay them a pension for life: This practice at length grew into great and scandalous abuse, resignations being made on any frivolous and unjustifiable occasion. It often drew the clergy into simoniacal contracts, diminished the value of benefices, by laying the burden of pensions on them, and defrauded the right of patrons.
.
Robert Dykar, clerk
Grant of mastership to Robert Dykar by Richard Fox, bishop of Durham, 17th July, 1501.
. was collated to this hospital by bishop Fox, the 17th of July, 1501, on the resignation of Alexander Lyghe. Though bishop Fox commended Dykar for his care and diligence in keeping up the buildings of the hospital, &c. (as may be seen in his instrument of collation) yet as soon as the bishop was translated to Winchester, he suffered the house to run to ruin and decay, embezzelled the hospital goods, and shamefully converted all the revenues to his own private use. When and where he died we know not.
Dr Roderick Gundisalve
Grant, &c. Rymer's Foedera, vol. xiii. p. 167.
, of Puebla in Spain, orator from the Spanish court, or in the modern phrase, charge des affairs, was presented to this hospital on the death of Rob. Dykar by king Henry VII. on the 11th of May, 1507, (daring the vacancy of the see) to hold the same during pleasure: But how long he continued master or for what services done, he obtained the grant of this house, we have not discovered, or whether he resigned or died possessed
K. Hen. 7. being a frugal prince, chose rather to reward foreigners, who had been sent here on legations, and under some pretence of service to our court, with preferments that cost him nothing, than to impair his treasure, by making pecuniary presents to them. Thus he bestowed the bishopric of Bath on Adrian de Castello, and of Worcester on Sylvester Gigles, both strangers, for past services: In like manner, we conjecture, Gundisalve was gratified with this hospital, as an equivalent for some particular services which he had performed for the king in the Spanish court.
.
Geoffrey Wren, clerk
Lease of waste ground at Ebchester to Geoffrey Wren, master of Sherburn hospital, by Thomas Wolsey, bishop of Durham, 17th of December, 1524. Rot. A. Tho. Card. No. 48.
, probably succeeded, but in what year is uncertain. Died the 5th of April, 1527, and was buried in St George's chapel at Windsor.
Edward Fox, S. T. P. was born at Duresley in Gloucestershire, educated at Eton school, and admitted of King's college, Cambridge, the 27th of March, 1512, whereof he was made provost the 27th of December, 1528, and continued so till his death. He was prebendary of Osbaldwick in York cathedral, the 8th of November, 1527, and w
suppose was collated to this hospital the same year. Died at London the 8th of May, 1538.
Thomas Leghe, L. D. was collated to this hospital by bishop Tunstall the 14th of September, 1535, on the promotion of Edward Fox to the See of Hereford. He died in 1545, and was buried in the church of St Leonard's Shoreditch, London, with this inscription on a flat stone,
"Sir Tho. Liggh, Doctor of Law, 1545."
The collation of Thomas Leghe to the mastership of Sherburn hospital by bishop Tunstoll, 14th Sept. 1535. F. reg. Tunstall, p. 22.
Grant of the next presentation to the vicarage of Bishopton, by the master and brethren of Sherburn hospital, April 20, 1541. E. reg. Tunstall, p. 34.
Anthony Bellassis, alias Bellassyse, succeeded Dr Leghe about the year 1545: Was the younger son of Thomas Bellassis of Henknowle in this county,
esq
and ordained a priest by bishop Tunstall the 7th of June, 1533. On the dissolution of the monasteries he obtained a grant of Newborough abbey, in the county of York, valued at 457l. 13s. 5d. which he afterwards gave to his nephew Sir William Bellassyse, knight, and is now the scat of earl Fauconberg
Tanner's Notitia.
.— Died in July, 1552
A note of the miserable abusyon of lands and goods given unto the hospital of Sherburn, only for the sustentation of poor people, which is now abused. This appears to be wrote about the time of Henry VIII. or Edward VI.
The first foundation of Sherburn howse was for sixty-five layseris, with a maister, who had rule of all together, and kept continual residence there, &c.
But is there neither poor man, poor woman, neither yet preest nor clerk, nor child, sound of the howse charge, saving only two preests, two clerks, and two children, which the sermor doth keep by reason of his lease.
And all the residue of the revenues of the howse, being only poor men's livings, goeth all together to the private use of the master.
.
Richard Read was of New College, in Oxford, doctor of laws, an able civilian of his time. Anthony Bellasis dying in July, 1552, (the bishop then in prison) Richard Read was put in master by the king, but notwithstanding this the bishop collated in his own right Anthony Salvayn. On bishop Tunstall's restoration Read quietly quitted his pretensions to the hospital, and Anthony Salvayn took possesion thereof.
THOMAS LEAVER PREACHER TO KING EDWARD THE SIXTE HE DIED IN IVLY 1577.
Anthony Salvayn
The collation of Anthony Salvayn, B. D. &c. 13th August, 1552. E. reg. Tunstall, p. 43.
was a younger son of Gerrard Salvayn of Croxdale, in this county,
esq
collated to Sherburn hospital the 13th of August, 1552. Was deprived before the 29th of November, 1559, (for on that day John Henshawe was installed in the prebend) and enjoined to remain in the town of Kirkbymoorside, in the county of York, or elsewhere in the said county, the city of York excepted, so that he pass not above five miles northward. He is said to be meanly learned, but of estimation in the country.—See Strype.
Ralph Skynner was of New College, in Oxford, the 12th of July, 1536. In 1559 was presented to the mastership of this hospital, on the deprivation of Anthony Salvayn, by Dr Grindall visitor of the bishopric, the See of Durham being then vacant, and in queen Elizabeth's hands. He was recommended to the queen by archbishop Parker. He died on the 21th of January, 1562, as appears by a MS. note, but where buried we cannot learn, though Willis supposes at Sedgefield, but without any foundation, as there appears no account of it in the parish register
Wood's Athenae, vol. i. p. 688.—Rymer's Foedera, vol. xv. p. 543.—Willis' Cath.—Strype's An. vol. i. p. 327.
.
Thomas Lever was born in Lancashire. Collated to Sherburn hospital the 28th of January, 1562. On a journey home to the hospital of Sherburn, (which he was permitted to retain on account of the scarcity of preachers, though deprived of his prebend for non-conformity) falling sick by the way
Vide Strype's Annals, vol. ii. p. 513.
, died at Ware the beginning of July, 1577, his body was brought to and interred adjoining the south wall within the altar rails of the chapel of Sherburn hospital, under a blue marble stone, whereon is cut a cross story with a bible and chalice, denoting him (as is conjectured) an itinerant preacher thro' England, and on a brass plate an inscription as in the margin.
Ralph Lever brother to Thomas Lever the last master, and an exile with him in Switzerland
Strype's Annals, vol. i. p. 319.—Wood's Ath. vol. i. p. 356, 671.—Willis, &c.
. On the 16th of July, 1577, was collated to the mastership of this hospital. He was a troublesome non-conformist, and very disobedient to his patron in trifles and frivolous masters. Died in 1585
The collation of Thomas Wright, A. M. to the vicarage of Sockburn by bishop Pilkington, through lapse of the master and brethren of Sherburn hospital not presenting in due time, 8th of August, 1570.
The collation of Francis Trollop, clerk, to the vicarage of Sockburn, by bishop Pilkington, through lapse of the master and brethren of Sherburn hospital not presenting in due time, 22d of April, 1572.
The protest and refusal of bishop Barnes to institute George Swalwell to the vicarage of Kellow, on the presentation of the master and brethren of Sherburn hospital, 26th of July, 1580.
.
☞ In his time an act of parliament passed in the 27th year of queen Elizabeth, 1584, for the incorporation of this hospital, by the name of Christ's hospital in Sherborne near Durham.
Valentine Dale, LL. D.
Wood's Ath. vol. i. p. 669 and 707.—Vide his letters in Strype's Hist. Reform. vol. ii. p. 244, and append. p. 52, No. 27.—Rymer's Foedera, vol. xv. p. 779, 781.—Camden's Annals of queen Elizabeth, 1588.—Dugdale's Bar. vol. ii. p. 394.—Collins' Peerage, vol. vi. p. 63.
. of All Souls, Oxford. On the 22d of March, 1584, was presented to the mastership of Sherburn hospital by virtue of an advowson granted to Henry and John Goldsmith of York, gentlemen, by bishop Barnes, for one turn only. He died in his house near St Paul's, London, the 17th of November, 1589, and was buried in the parish church of St Gregory
Grant by bishop Barnes to John Goldsmithe and Henry Goldsmithe of the next presentation to the mastership of Sherburn hospital for Valentine Dale, 20th of April, 1582.
The presentation of Valentine Dale, LL. D. to the mastership of Sherburn hospital, by John Goldsmithe, 22d of March, 1584.
Dispensation of absence for Valentine Dale, and to be admitted by proxy into the mastership of Sherburn hospital, and to hold and execute the same by deputy, (he being a layman in the queen's service) notwithstanding the act of parliament of the 27th of her reign, requiring the master thereof to be a preacher, having no cure or charge of souls elsewhere, 17th of April, 1585.
Procuration of Valentine Dale for John Maddocks and John Bernes his proctors, to exhibit his presentation and letters of dispensation of absence from queen Elizabeth before bishop Barnes, and to be admitted into the mastership of Sherburn hospital by proxy, 17th of April, 1585.
Institution and decree of letters mandatory by bishop Barnes, to induct Valentine Dale by proxy into the mastership of Sherburn hospital, 22d of April, 1585.
The citation of bishop Barnes for visiting Sherburn hospital in the time of Valentine Dale master, 4th of June, 1585.
.
Immediately after the death of Dr Dale, bishop Hutton bestowed the hospital on a nephew of his, viz. Robert Hutton, B. D. a noted tutor, and senior fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge, who declined accepting the same, and interceeded for Dr Bellamy, then a prebendary of Durham, by way of exchange.
Robert Bellamy born in Yorkshire; was of Exeter College. In November, 1589, was collated to the mastership of this hospital by bishop Hutton, having exchanged his rectory of Houghton-le-Spring and prebend for it. This bishop in his letter to the lord treasurer Burleigh, calls him
an honest man, c preacher and a physician, fit to have charge both of the souls and bodies of the poor impotent sick persons of that hospital.
He died about December, 1608, and is characterized with others of the college of Durham, in a Latin manuscript poem, written about 1584, and preserved among Anthony à Wood's papers in the Ashmolean museum, entitled,
Iter Boreale,
written by Dr Richard Eedes, canon of Christ church, and afterwards dean of Worcester
Bishop Hutton's letter to the lord treasurer Burleigh, praying that his lordship would be a means to satisfy the queen concerning his presenting Dr Bellamy to Sherburn hospital, 30th of March, 1590.
My most humble duty remembered, &c. I am now to crave your lordship's favour more than ever in my life, for I understand by Mr Secretary, that her majesty is much offended with me for the bestowing of Sherborn house, the matter is this: Immediately after the decease of Dr Dale I bestowed the hospital of Sherborn house upon a kinsman of mine, one Mr Robert Hutton, a bachelor of divinity, and one of the senior fellows of Trinity college, in Cambridge, and this year head lecturer in that house; but because the living chiefly consisteth upon husbandry, and he a meer scholar, I was content at his suite to bestow that hospital upon Dr Bellamy, an honest man, a preacher, and a physician, to have charge both of the souls and bodies of the poor impotent sick persons of that hospital, and Dr Bellamy to give over one of his benefices and his prebend in Durham to Mr Hutton; this was done in November and the beginning of December last, for after I did receive a letter from Mr Secretary, that her majesty's intention was to qualify Sir Henry Lee with a dispensation, and to bestow upon him the said house; I did answer, that I being patron by statute, (whereunto her majesty had given her royal assent) with best advice had already given it as fully and effectually as I could; so the matter slept from that time until the beginning of March, when I did receive to my great grief another letter from Mr Secretary, that her highness was greatly offended with me for the bestowing of it, because I knowing her majesty's determination, had presumed to bestow it without her leave: I answer that which was most true, as I shall answer before the living God, that I had given it before Mr Secretary's letter signifying her majesty's pleasure did come unto my hands, and that I did it with the testimony of a good conscience, to bring into this ignorant country two godly preachers by two benefices which Dr Bellamy did resign; but this week I did receive a third letter from Mr Secretary, signifying that he had acquainted her majesty with my answer, wherewith her highness was nothing satisfied, but that her majesty's resolution was that I should restore Dr Bellamy to all his former livings, and he to give over the hospital, and that I should send up forthwith to the court Mr Hutton, to compound with Sir Henry Lee for the hospital, and then he to have the same, which thing if it please your good lordship lieth not in me to do, for I am not patron of all Dr Bellamy's livings, and he refuseth to give over the hospital which he doth lawfully possess, and Mr Hutton was instituted and inducted into his benefice and prebend
Co
l
ted the 4th of December, and instituted the 13th of December, 1589, to the rectory of Houghton-le-Spring, and the third prebend in Durham cathedral.
The recognizance of Robert Bellamy, master of Sherburn hospital, for delivery of the stock of cattle, corn, hay, &c. belonging to the said hospital, at his resignation or death, 22d of April, 1605.
Memorand. quod Rob. Bellamy, clericus, in medicinis doctor, magister hospitalis Christi in Sherburne prope Dunelm. in com. Dunelm. coram reverendo in Christo patre Tobia episc. Dunelm. in cancellar. Dunelm. personaliter constitut. recognovit se debere serenissimo et potentissimo in Christo principi Jacobo Dei gratia Angliae, Scotiae, &c. regi, &c. octingent. libras bonae et legalis monetae Angliae solvend. eid. domino regi haeredibus vel successoribus suis, et nisi ita fecerit, vult et concedit quod vicecomes Dunelm. fieri faciat praedict. summam octingent. librarum de omnibus maneriis, messuagiis, terris et tenementis praedicti Robert Bellamy, haeredum executorum vel administratorum suorum in com. Dunelm. teste Thoma Calverley, ar. cancellar. Dunelm. apud Dunelm. vicesimo secundo die Aprilis anno regni dicti domini regis Angliae, Franciae et Hiberniae tertio, et Scotiae tricesimo octavo, 1605.
The condition of this recognizance is such, that whereas the right reverend father in God Tobye, by divine providence bishop of Duresme, the sixteenth day of April, in the year of our Lord God one thousand five hundred fourscore and nineteen, in his diocesan and ordinary visitation then depending, did make, set down, and cause to be delivered in writing under his hand and seal to the above named Robert Bellamy, clerk, doctor of physic, then and now master, and the brethren of Christ's hospital in Sherburne nigh Duresme, in the county of Duresme aforesaid, certain ordinances and rules specially concerning the stock of corn and hay to be left at the death, resignation, or removal of each master of the said hospital, by them and their successors to be observed and kept: In which ordinances and rules amongst other things, it is ordained to this effect, viz. That as well for the performance of the same ordinances and rules, as for the due preservation, safety, and delivery of all other the whole stock of cattle, goods, plate, stuff, utensils and implements, belonging to the said hospital, according to an inventory thereof made after the death of Master Valentine Daile, doctor of the laws and master of requests to the late queen's majesty, and late master of the said hospital, as well the said master then and now being, as every other master that shall succeed, before the time of his induction or real possession of or in the said hospital, and before he shall take or receive any profits or commodities, or any way intermeddle with the government or charge thereof, shall acknowledge one recognizance in the sum of eight hundred pounds of lawful English money to the king's majesty's use in the chancery at Duresme, before the chancellor of the county palatine of Duresme for the time being, as by the same doth and may appear.
If therefore the said Robert Bellamy, clerk, now master of the said hospital, his executors, administrators, and assigns, shall from henceforth on his and their behalf, well and truly perform and observe the said ordinances and rules, and every part and parcel thereof; and also shall duly preserve and safe deliver, within ten days next after he the said Robert Bellamy shall happen to die, or by resignation, or by any other manner of avoidance whatsoever, become not master of the said hospital, all such other the whole stock and store of goods, cattle, plate, stuff, utensils and implements, and every part thereof not mentioned in the said ordinances, as belong or ought to belong to the said hospital, in the name of the stock, store, goods, cattle, plate, stuff, utensils, and implements whatsoever of the same hospital, or by any other name whatsoever, according to the said inventory thereof made after the death of Master Valentine Daile aforesaid, late master of the said hospital, now remaining in the register of the said reverend father the bishop of Duresme, and of the full several values or prices thereof mentioned to the next succeeding master after him, and the brethren of the said hospital, or to such other person or persons as the reverend father lord bishop of Durham for the time being shall under his hand and seal appoint and authorize for the receipts thereof, to and for the use of the said succeeding master and brethren of the said hospital, that then this obligation to be void, otherwise to remain in full force and virtue.
ROBERT BELLAMY.
in the beginning of December last, and as I hear, hath already compounded for first fruits, yet I have sent my servant to Mr Hutton at Cambridge, where he is preparing for his removing to his benefices, now at Easter, and willed him to make his present repair thither, and to answer for himself: Thus standeth the matter. Now my humble suite is unto your honour, for your accustomed favour, first, that Dr Bellamy and Mr Hutton be not compelled to give over their livings, which as I take it, they do lawfully possess; secondly, that the hospital appointed by her majesty and the whole parliament to a preacher, and the relief of the poor, may not
converted to worse uses, which is like to be, if Sir Henry Lee be compounded withal; thirdly, that her majesty be not offended with me for doing that, which I thought I might do lawfully, and did with the testimony of a good conscience, I beseech your honour, that as you and my lord grace of Canterbury were the means without my suit, for my placing in this country, so at my earnest humble suit, you will be a means to defend me in my well and lawful doings, thus with humble thanks to God for restoring you to health again, and to your honour for your great favour towards me at all times, I humbly take my leave.
Your lordship's most bounden MATTH. DUNELM.
Aukland,
3
th of March, 1590.
.
Thomas Murray
Wood's Ath. vol. i. p. 398.—Rymer's Foed. vol. xvi. p. 631.—See his epitaph Le Neve's Monum. Angl. p. 86, No. 163.
4 Jan. 1606. Ego Thomas Murray, arm. admittendus ad hospitale Christi de Shirburne prope Dunelmum his articulis libenter ex animo subscribo quatenus me concernunt. Thomas Murray.
Subscrip. Book of bishop James, Consist. Court, Durham.
,
esq
a Scotchman, descended from the ancient and honourable family of the earl of Tullibardine, was collated to this hospital in 1606, though contrary to the act of the 27th of Elizabeth, as being a mere layman, and not even in deacon's orders. He was a gentleman of so fine accomplishments that king James I. made choice of him as preceptor. He died on the 9th of April, 1623, being then newly cut for the stone, and was buried in the chapel of Eton college.
William Shawe, A. M. was collated to this hospital the 11th of July, 1623, by bishop Neile, on the death of Thomas Murray. He had seven acres of land allotted to him in right of the hospital, upon a division of the townfields of Sherburn. Died before September 1636.
John Machon, A. M. born in Staffordshire; was collated to the vicarage of Hartburn in Northumberland, the 24th of September, 1632, and resigned it for this hospital, into which he was inducted the 24th of September, 1636. During the civil wars between the king's army quartered at Durham, and the parliament army stationed at Quarrington, the hospital was plundered of its cattle and goods, also of many of its old charters and muniments, and Mr Machon was much abused and dispossessed, and one John Fenwick, a tradesman in Newcastle and guide to the Scottish army, was put in master, who soon after got an order from Oliver Cromwell to put in his son John Fenwick, a layman, to be master there, whereby Machon was kept out of the hospital eighteen years. After the restoration of king Charles he petitioned the king to be restored, and enjoyed it till his death in December 1679: Was buried in the hospital chapel without any memorial.
☞ The former masters of this hospital were obliged to leave their successors stock to the value of 400l. but bishop Crewe in consideration of Mr Machon's great losses, and seventeen years banishment, by an order dated the 13th of September, 1676, decreed, that Machon should only leave to his successor 200l. in cattle, hay, corn, &c. which rule every succeeding master has been allowed to follow
Bishop Morton's letters of institution for John Machon, A. M. to the mastership of Sherburn hospital, 23d of September, 1636.
The bishop's testimonial of John Machon's taking the oaths, and subscribing the articles, on his collation as master of Sherburn hospital, 23d of September, 1636.
Bishop Morton's mandate to induct John Machon, A. M. into the office of master of Sherburn hospital, Sept. 23, 1636.
The order of bishop Cosin to John Machon, master of Sherburn hospital, to admit none but maimed seamen and soldiers into the hospital, pursuant to an order of the king and council, 7th of August, 1666.
An inventory of the stock of cattle, plate, and houshold goods, belonging to Sherburn hospital, delivered to John Machon the master, 24th of September,
1636. First CATTLE of diverse sorts.
Imprimis.
£.
s.
d.
43 draught oxen at 3l. a piece
129
0
0
4 Stots of 3 years old at 24s.
4
16
0
21 young beasts of 2 years old at 24s.
25
4
0
20 kyne and 2 bulls at 23s. 4d.
25
13
4
9 kyne at 26s. 8d
12
0
0
7 mares at 30s. 5d.
10
12
11
2 fillies and 1 colt 2 years old at 26s. 8d.
4
0
0
1 filly 1 year old
0
10
0
1 stoned horse
2
10
0
21 calves of 1 year old at 10s.
10
10
0
21 score ewes at 4l.
84
0
0
13 score hogs at 46s. 8d.
30
6
8
90 wethers and 50 tups at 4l. each score
28
0
0
old swine and 10 pigs
3
6
8
 
370
9
7
Item, all the winter corn and spring corn at the death of the said master Dr Shaw, sown and to be sown (according to the ordinances) upon the lands in tillage at Byersgarth and Garmansloap.
Houshold stuff as follows:
In the hall and great chamber.
14 tables and boards
6 quishings
4 cup towels
4 dressing boards
13 forms
6 joined stools
11 chests
11 tressils
1 ambrie cupbord or side table for plate
1 porr of iron
1 teaster bed with vallence of green and red with 5 curtains
1 pair of fire tongs
1 sharn or canabie
1 counter
1 round table
1 feather bed
30 coverlids
6 mattrasles
2 covering's
29 blankets
3 boulsters
6 codds
3 codd waiers
39 bed stocks
Linen.
11 pair of sheets
6 table cloths of 6 yards long each
4 towels
12 napkins
2 cupboard cloths
Pewter and brass.
2 laver basons
1 chafer
3 candlesticks
2 boiling pots
3 posnetts
3 great pans
2 little pans
1 great furnace pot
1 brazen mortar and pestal
1 laddle
1 scummer
1 chafing dish
12 plates
12 dishes
12 sawcers
In the buttery.
12 silver spoons
1 almorie chest for linen
1 great knife
8 leather sacks
12 hogsheads for beer
4 dreeping tubs
8 cruses
4 wood cans
In the brewhouse.
1 mash fatt
1 brewing lead
1 lead trough
2 ale tubs
2 kettles
4 baskets
1 cestern
1 long trough
2 tubs
In the larder.
2 oxen and an half in salt
4 bacon sticks
1 lead cestern to salt beef in
1 slaughter
3 slaughter ax
1 flesh bill
In the poultry.
34 capons
41 hens
8 cocks
15 geese
1 gander
14 ducks
2 drakes
In the smithy.
1 smith's stithy
2 working hammers
2 shoeing hammers
1 pair of tongs
1 pair of bellows
1 tool for cart nails
1 tool for nails
1 tool for small nails
In the kitchen.
1 brand iron
2 hand irons
1 roasting iron
1 iron poaker
1 whetstone
2 pair of pothooks
3 spitts
1 stone mortar and pestal
1 paistry board
1 capon coffer
1 steeping tub
1 frying pan
1 dressing knife
1 kitchen knife
Item, a communion cup part gilt, which Margaret Leaver, widow to Ralph Leaver, late master there, did freely give to the hospital for ever.
In the boulting house.
1 boulting ark
2 tubs for levening
3 moulding boards
2 other tubs
1 boulter
In the store house.
3 quarters of a hundred hops
8 stone of iron
5 pound lint
3 pound of lintseed
4 horse tra
es
4 wain hoops of iron
1 pair of weights
5 hooks of iron
6 bowls
2 skeels
1 brand iron
2 pair wool cards
1 spinning wheel
2 heckles for line
Wains and plows.
5 coop wains
5 long wains
5 plows
At Garmandsway.
1 brass cauldron
1 brass kettle
In the kill house.
1 lead steep
1 kiln hair cloth
1 iron chimney
Also, the said John Machon now master of the said hospital, doth acknowledge himself to have received of the aforesaid David Miles, the sum of twenty pounds of current money of England, besides the aforesaid stock of cattle and goods, according to an order set down by the right reverend father William lord bishop of Duresme for the consideration then mentioned; which said sum of twenty pounds he the said John Machon doth acknowledge, and himself promise for him, his executors, administrators, and assigns, to leave the same to the use of the succeeding master and brethren at what time soever he shall become not master of the said hospital.
The order or allowance of bishop Crewe, for John Machon, master of Sherburn hospital, to leave only 220l. value in cattle, hay, corn, stock in husbandry, and silver plate, on account of his great losses in the late rebellious times, 13th of September, 1676.
.
John Montague, the fourth son of Edward Montague, earl of Sandwich, by his lady Jemima daughter of John lord Crewe. In 1680 had the mastership of this hospital conferred on him by bishop Crewe. Died unmarried at London, on the 23d of February, 1727
The order and consent of bishop Crewe, that Dr Montague, master of Sherburn hospital, shall not be obliged to leave more than 200l. stock to his successor, 9th of July, 1720.
The charter, grant, and conveyance from John Trollop,
Esq
to John Spearman,
esq
his heirs and assigns, (inter alia) of the donation, presentation, right of patronage, and free disposition of the place of Thornley Brother in Sherburn hospital. 4th of December, 1679.
The certificate of the master and brethren of Sherburn hospital, to John Spearman,
esq
of the deprivation of John Lawes (Thornley Brother), for recusancy, and being a papist convict, and for Mr Spearman to present another in his place, 4th of August, 1682.
The quarterly accounts and payments of Dr Montague, master of Sherburn Hospital, for the year 1726.
RECEIPTS.
 
£.
s.
d.
Candlemas
121
8
11
May-day
156
8
7
Lammas
186
14
11
Martinmas
151
16
3
 
616
8
8
PAYMENTS.
The annual deductions and expences of the brethren, curate, &c.
112
13
4
To an ox for the bishops
10
0
0
To the prescriptive rent
3
10
0
 
126
3
4
The clear income to the master, besides fines on the renewal of leases for lives and years as they drop and fall in
490
5
4
 
616
8
8
House expences and the dieting and washing sixteen inn-brethren and a chaplain for the year
1686,
Dr Montague master.
The yearly rent of land kept for that purpose
100
0
0
Servant's wages
32
18
0
Brewer's sallary
2
0
0
Market woman
0
8
0
Washing per year
3
0
0
Scaling and dressing the ground
1
10
0
Whins for baking
1
5
0
Charges of harvest
22
13
0
One fat ox
12
0
0
Repairs of the stock in exchanging two oxen
2
13
4
The four festivals
4
10
0
Housekeeping the whole year at 30s. a week
78
0
0
PAYMENTS.
Salary to the out-brethren
30
0
0
Salary to the inn-brethren
16
0
0
To the chaplain
25
0
0
To the clerk
2
0
0
Chimney money
3
9
0
Dean and chapter's rent and acquitance
0
2
6
Bishop's rent and acquitance
0
7
0
Tithe rent for South Sherburn
3
10
0
Plumber's salary
2
0
0
Wine for the communion
0
10
0
My lord bishop's fat ox
10
0
0
Mr Delaval the deputy-master's salary
20
0
0
To the master, deducting for repairs and charity at the gate
279
13
8
The rents being in all this year Fines for renewal of leases
653
9
6
A rental of the lands and tithes of Sherburn hospital in the year
1717,
Dr Montague, master
LAND RENTS.
John Woodifield for a farm at Garmonsway
100
0
0
Robert Hutchinson for a farm at Garmonsway
87
0
0
Thomas Hasswell for a farm at Garmonsway
67
0
0
Ralph Bird for a farm at Garmonsway
27
15
0
Thomas Fatherley's farm nigh Sherburne
38
12
0
John Kirton's farm nigh Sherburne house
52
0
0
Mark Pickering's farm nigh Sherburne house
21
0
0
Thomas Brass and son for Whitewell house
15
0
0
John Day for a close at Byer's garth
6
0
0
Robert Johnson for an out-rent out of Ebchester
16
5
4
Sir William Blacket out of lands at Bedburne
4
0
0
Thomasiue Busby out of lands at Kelloe
1
0
0
John Woodifield out of lands at Whitton
2
11
8
Nicholas Swainston out of lands at Whitton
2
11
8
Mr Searl out of lands at Whitton
2
11
8
W. Dickeson & C. Ovington for lands at Byar's g.
3
10
0
W. Thompson for a close at Sherburne house
1
0
0
WHITTON HAY TITHE.
Thomas Hutchinson
0
1
6
John Chipchase
0
1
2
Gilbert Spearman,
esq
0
2
0
CORN TITHE RENTS.
Thomas Davison,
esq
for Thorpe Thewles
14
1
4
Mr Anthony Salvin for Sockburn and Bishopton
15
16
8
Mr William Wilkinson
7
10
0
Mrs Davison for Winyard
2
3
4
Mr Laurence Tatham for Bishopton
3
6
8
Mrs Todd for Stillington
2
13
4
Mrs Kennett for part of Coxhoe
2
13
4
Cassop township
4
2
8
Mr Forcer for town of Kelloe
3
17
4
Robert Hopper for Quarrington
3
0
4
TITHE WOOL AND LAMB.
John Cornsorth for Quarrington
24
0
0
John Chipchase for Whitton
13
0
0
George Clayton for Bishopton
6
0
0
John Bankes for Sockburne
5
0
0
John Robinson for Stillington
1
10
0
PRESCRIPTIONS AND HOUSE RENTS.
Mr Gilbert Spearman a prescript rent for Thornley
1
13
4
Mr Baker a prescript rent for
0
9
0
Mr Grey a house rent in Durham
0
5
0
Mr Hindmarsh a house rent in Gateshead
0
2
8
Mr Hagdon's house
0
2
8
Mr Gascoigne's house
0
11
8
The demesne lands per annum
160
0
0
Fines for renewal of leases uncertain
 
 
 
 
720
1
4
1713, December 12. A lease granted by the master of Sherburn hospital to Thomas Peirson, of the demesne lands at the annual rent of 152l. the lessee to pay 289l. 13s. 3d. for stock of cattle, and 188l. 12s. 2d. for hay and corn, to leave like quantity of butter, cheese, beef, coals, cynders, whins, and manure, as mentioned in the schedule.—To provide meat, drink, washing, fireing, and coals, for fifteen inn-dwelling brethren.—To give alms of a farthing a piece per week, to all poor people that come to ask alms.—To provide for the chaplain one dinner and beer; and provide for an old blind woman, and for Mrs Hodges, meat, drink, washing, lodging, and wringing.—The lessor to allow yearly 23l. for the expences of the chaplain, blind woman, and Mrs Hodges.
.
Thomas Rundle, fellow commoner of Exeter college in Oxford; resigned the rectory of Sedgefield on being collated to this hospital in March 1727. He was talked of for the vacant archbishopric of Dublin in October 1742; but this high station he never enjoyed. Died 14th of April, 1743.
Wadham Chandler, A. M. upon Dr Rundle's resignation was collated to the mastership of this hospital the 1st of August, 1735. Died the 2d of January, 1737. He was a younger son of the bishop of Durham.
Robert Stillingfleet
Bond from Robert Stillingfleet, master of Sherburn hospital, to pay to his successor the sum of 200l. for the use of the said hospital, 4th of August, 1738.
Bishop Chandler's order or allowance for Robert Stillingfleet, master of Sherburn hospital, to be accountable only for the goods of the said hospital, according to an inventory then made thereof, lodged in the bishop's registry at Durham, 29th of April, 1748.
A schedule of the goods belonging unto Christ's hospital in Sherburn, in the county and diocese of Durham,
29th
of April,
1748.
Chapel plate and linen.
One silver slaggon, one silver chalice, one small silver salver, one table cloth, and one napkin.
In the master's lodgings.
One large silver tankard.
In the chaplain's apartment.
One bedstead with green curtains, one feather bed, bolster, and pillow, three blankets, and one quilt.
In the brethren's hall.
One long sir table and two forms, one large back-settle, and two small ones, one iron pan, one washing tub and staff, one pair of tongs.
In the tenant's house and kitchen.
One pair of large grate bars, one cinder grate, a smoak jack, three iron spits, a pair of iron racks, an iron oven, an iron furnace pot, a brass pan, two kettles, an iron pot, an iron crane with three crooks, an iron coal-rake, a beef-fork, two tin pudding-pans, three pewter dishes, one old copper quart, one long oak table, two forms, a dresser with shelves, a small dresser with shelves, two cheese shelves, a salt box.
In the parlour.
One iron grate, a pair of tongs, a square table, an armed chair.
In the parlour chamber.
One old bedstead with curtains torn, a round table, a pair of grate bars, and a fender.
In the little parlour chamber.
Grate bars, a chest which divides into two parts, a round sir table.
In the servant's room and flour room.
Two old bedsteads, and a tempsing table.
In the dairy.
One long table twelve shelves, two cheese troughs, a leaden milk trough, a butter tub and caser, four wooden milk bowls, leaden butter weights.
In the buttery.
Four shelves, two cheese vats, four curd vats, a fyle, and two wooden dishes.
In the passages and cellar.
Two cheese presses, two sinkers, a hen pen, a large sir press for cloths, a leaden beef trough, two gantrees, eleven hogsheads.
In the brewhouse.
A large boiler, a masking tub and a leaden trough under it, a leaden cooler, a large gylevut, a small gylevat, a water tub, three flat tubs, a long hand, a shirer, a hop basket and bearer, a long trough and a short one, a coal-rake and poker, two funnels and a strum.
In the pantry.
Two chests, a set of shelves, a leavening tub.
In the granary and malthouse.
One bushel and a shovel, a cistern, a grate, and a hair cloth.
At Biarsgerth.
One pair of old stings, two old coop carts, one small sock, three coulters, three yokes, three large swingle trees, six iron draught teams, four large bolts and shackles, a small bolt and shackles, three horse foams, two iron grapes, two oat riddles, one wheat riddle, one barley riddle, a peck, a bing, two ox harrows, two horse harrows, two drags, one ox rack, one long rack under the hovel.
ROBERT STILLINGFLEET, master.
, son of Dr James Stillingfleet, dean of Worcester; educated at Wadham college, Oxford; was collated to the mastership of this hospital in June 1738, when he resigned Ryton. Died at Bristol August 3d, 1759.
David Gregory, D. D. the first professor of modern history at Oxford, appointed by king George I. the 18th of August, 1724; was collated by bishop Trevor to this hospital the 15th of September, 1759. His benevolence was diffusive and general; while master of this hospital he did not confine the old men as heretofore to the strict allowance, which good as it might have been when anciently settled on them by their founder, was now become a sad and scanty pittance, but as far as it was in his power, made them enjoy the sense and spirit of the benefaction. He demolished all the little wretched huts in which they were huddled together, and erected a handsome commodious stone edifice, making it to consist of twenty different apartments, that each might have one entirely to himself; and also constructed a large room in the centre of the building for their common reception, and comfortably provided it with every necessary accommodation: For this purpose he cut down and sold a large wood at Ebchester belonging the hospital, as it is said, adequate to the expence. He died the 16th of September, 1767.
Mark Hildesley, D. D. was of Trinity college, Cambridge, and bishop of Sodor and Man. He was collated to this hospital by bishop Trevor, the 21st of September, 1767, and died at Bishop's Court in the Isle of Man, the 7th of December, 1772, aged 74 years.
Thomas Dampier, a native of Somersetshire, educated at Eton school; was a prebendary of Durham, which he resigned on being collated to this hospital by Dr Egerton, late lord bishop of Durham, wherein he was inducted by proxy the 10th of March, 1773. Installed dean of Durham in June 1774, having before resigned the hospital to his son the present dean of Rochester. He died the 2d of August, 1777.
☞This inspeximus taken in the time of bishop Hatfield.
. The hospital stands at the foot and west side of a large square area or green, containing near an acre, and consists of a neat but low building, having a hall in the center, and two wings formed into lodgings: On the east side of the area, which is a hanging plain gradually descending to the west, is the master's house, and a dwelling for the chief farmer: On the north side is a porter's lodge and gateway, in the center of the boundary wall; and on the south side, at the east corner, stands the chapel, which adjoins to the garden. You enter the chapel through the tower; the nave is now totally disused, the chancel only receiving the congregation; the nave is lighted by three narrow windows to the so
th, under circular arches, and ornamented with small round pilasters, belted and capitalled like those in the east part of Durham cathedral, and apparently of equal date. The pulpit and desk are placed on each hand of the entrance into the chancel, which is much more modern than the nave; it is lighted by three windows on the north and south sides, all under pointed arches: In the center south window are the arms of the Montagues in painted glass. The east window is new, consisting of five lights and some elegant tracery, with painted glass: In the roses of the upper tracery are the arms of Neville. In the center light is the figure represented on the hospital seal, above which are the arms of lord Crew, and those of the See. The chancel is neatly stalled on each side for the brethren. Within the altar rails towards the south wall is the tomb of Thomas Lever, who died in 1577. The situation of this hospital is remarkably healthful, it is surrounded with dry and fertile lands, and stands about two miles distant from Durham.
The FOUNDATION CHARTER is to the following effect.
(E. Reg. II. penes Dec. & Cap. Dun. p. 323.)
Universis sanctae matris ecclesiae filiis, nos Thomas, &c. Dunelmensis episcopus, &c. intimamus quod inspecto registro tempore bonae memoriae Antonii Dunelmensis episcopi praedecessoris nostri penes nos remanente, ordinationem vicariae de Kellowe nostrae Dunelmensis dioceseos tenorem qui sequitur continentem comperimus in eodem.
Hugo Dei gratia Dunelmensis episcopus dilectis filiis Germano priori Dunelmensi, Burchardo et Willielmo archidiaconis, et omnibus clericis, &c.
Divina commiseratione commoniti domum hospitalem leprosorum faciendam mente concepimus, et de loco partim quo fieri debet edocti, domum ipsam in honorem salvatoris et beatae Mariae semper virginis, et sancti Lazari sororumque ipsius Mariae et Marthae, cum quibusdam eidem hospitali beneficiis ad sustentationem assignatis, juxta pontem de Shirburne prope Dunelmum aedificavimus.
Statuimus igitur, ut in ecclesia ibidem in honorem praedictorum sanctorum consecrata▪ et in capella interius infra domum infirmorum in honorem sancti Nicholai constructa, divina semper a tribus presbyteris et quatuor clericis ad serviendum ibidem statutis pro temporali pace praedictorum et requie sempiterna celebrentur.
Sed et quinque conventus leprosorum, (hoc est) sexaginta quinque numoer semper ad minus, ibi victu pariter et vestitu procurentur, et eorum procurator, qui eos et eorum possessiones custodierit, &c.
Ad eorum itaque sustentationem, &c. dedimus, &c. de dominico nostro villam ipsam de Shirburne, cum molendino et pasturis et aliis rebus per rectas divisas ad ipsas pertinentibus, de quibus, &c. sexaginta tantum solidi reddi solebant.
Et super Darwentam fluvium, qui forestam nostram dividit a vicinis, Ebchester, locum (viz.) anachoritarum, ad animalia fratrum infirmorum usibus ibi nutrienda, et ad eorum pastores ibidem procurandos, licentiam dedimus de sartis proficiendis unam carucatam terrae arabilis, quae octies viginti acras tantum in se contineat.
Et duas bovatas terrae in Wytton, quae antiquitùs pro servitio capellae ejusdem villae datae fuerunt. Et septem alias bovatas in eadem villa, quas de Galfrido filio Ricardi et Auberico, sicut cartae venditorum testantur, emimus.
Et villam de Garmundsway cum omnibus ad eam pertinentibus, quas sumptibus propriis acquisivimus, reddendo indè pro tertia parte singulis annis imperpetuum Radulpho filio Paulini de Eboraco et haeredibus ejus quatuor marcas pro omni servitio, duas (viz.) ad Pentecostam, et duas ad festum Sancti Martini, sicut ejusdem Radulphi carta testatur.
Confirmamus eis etiam unam carucatam terrae juxta Garmundsway, &c. quae Raceby vocatur, &c.
Et praeterea unam carucatam in Shoreveton, cum pastura ad mille oves, &c. quam Thomas filius Stephani filii Burnolfi praedictis leprosis, &c. in puram et perpetuam elemosinam dedit, &c. sicut Monachi Rievallenses eam, &c. habuerunt, &c. Et praeterea unam bovatam terrae in eadem villa, &c. quam Robertus praedicti Thomae patruus eis in puram et perpetuam elemosinam dedit, &c.
Et insuper eis donavimus ecclesiam de Kellow juxta ejus parochiam consistentem, et ecclesiam de Grendon quam novam et recentèr in honorem beati Thomae Martyris construximus; sed etiam ecclesias de Sockburn et Bishopton, quas dilectus filius noster Rogerus de Coyners assensu Roberti filii et haeredis sui eidem hospitali dedit, &c.
Hiis testibus,
Germanus was elected prior of Durham in 1162, and died in 1186.
Germano priore Dunelmensi,
Burchard, archdeacon of Durham, died the 6th of December, 1196. William succeeded John as archdeacon of Northumberland about 1180.
Burchardo et Willelmo archidiaconis, Symone Camerario, magistro
Richard de Coldingham was vicar of Elvete in Durham, and died in 1198, or 1200.
From the above circumstances we may six the date of the foundation charter of Sherburn-house about the year 1181 or 1182.
Ricardo de Coldingham, magistro Willelmo de Blesensi, magistro Stephano Lincoln, Willelmo filio archidiaconi, Willelmo de Hoveden, et pluribus aliis.
In quarum inspectionis et comparationis testimonium has nostras literas fecimus patentes sigilli nostri impressione communitas. Datum in manerio de Aucland ix. Kal. Julii An. Dom. 1349.
The following CONSTITUTIONS were ordained by the founder, and afterwards confirmed by bishop Kellawe
E. registro 2do antiquo pen. Dec. & Cap. Dunelm. p. 324.
.
Hae sunt constitutiones hospitalis domus leprosorum de Shirburne, &c.
Imprimis ergo statuit dictus Hugo episcopus, ut in capella dictae domus ad serviendum Deo et sanctae Mariae Magdalenae et beato Nicholao, sint continue tres sacerdotes et quatuor clerici, duo scilicet ad serviendum altari sanctae Mariae Magdalenae hebdomadario modo, quorum unus hebdomada sua celebrabit cantando missam tempori congruentem et alius hebdomada illa pro fidelibus et vice versa tertius deputabitur officio sancti Nicholai et continue celebrabit pro defunctis, et haec erit missa sororum leprosarum infra quarum domum a latere australi sita est dicta capella.
Quartum capellanum apposuit tempore suo dictus Ricardus Dunelmensis episcopus, quem deputavit officio beatae Mariae Virginis in capella nova quam in honorem beatae Mariae Virginis construxit a latere aquilonari majoris capellae ubi quartus sacerdos cotidie celebrabit missam de beata Maria Virginis cum solempnitate, et haec erit missa fratrum leprosorum et cotidie ultimo celebrabitur, tum propter fratres debiles et mane surgere non valentes, tum propter sacerdotes qui expletis officiis sibi deputatis, omnes dictae missae intererunt. Diebus vero dominicis et in majoribus solempnitatibus ultimo celebrabitur magna missa in majori capella ubi omnes intererunt tam clerici quam sacerdotes, et illis diebus tantum aperientur ostia leprosorum tam fratrum quam sororum, ut in domo fratrum omnes conveniant, et in continuo silentio intrabunt et redibunt, praeeunte fratres leprosos eorum priore, et priorissa subsequente sorores leprosas, et sic missa celebrata domum suam intrabunt sorores et claudetur earum ostium.
Statuit etiam dictus Hugo, ut dictae domus procurator semper sacerdos praesiciatur et religiosus, si bonus inveniatur,
vel secullaris si melior inveniatur,
qui dictis sacerdotibus de dictis officiariis in omnibus necessariis providebit, et missam, quam voluerit, et ubi, celebrabit, qui in rectura ita modeste se habeat, ut numerum trium equorum non excedat nisi aliter cogat necessitas. Istorum etiam sacerdotum officiis et eorum sustentamentis, deputati sunt tres clerici vel quatuor, nisi procurator fuerit sacerdos, qui dictis sacerdotibus in divinis officiis ministrabunt quorum unus ad minus erit diaconus.
Omnes vero sacerdotes et clerici simul in camera juxta capellam sita jacebunt, praeter unum quem procurator secum in camera sua habere voluerit, et omnes cum procuratore in aula prandebunt et coenabunt, nisi aliter cogat necessitas.
Decrevit etiam idem Ricardus, ut in tempore hyemali surgant dicti sacerdotes in media nocte ad officium nocturnum perficiendum, quo completo, usque mane dormiant, et tunc iterum in silentio ad ecclesiam redeant et officia divina tempori congruentia, signo prius in qualibet hora pulsato, cantando compleant: Aestivo autem tempore ita surgant, ut officium nocturnum compleatur in diluculo, et sic in loco pausent et post modo prescripto ad divina officia redeant.
Idem etiam statuit, ut continue in majori ecclesia in presentia corporis et sanguinis domini sit ignis perpetuus; et quod semper in majori missa in majori capella celebretur, et in missa beatae Mariae Virginis, accendantur duo luminaria ad minus.
Decrevit etiam idem episcopus, ut secundum statuta Hugonis quondam Dunelmensis episcopi predecessoris sui quinque conventus leprosorum, sive sexaginta et quinque, continue ibi vivant, et de bonis dictae domus pascantur et vestiantur; et quod quilibet frater vel soror habeat unum panem in die quinque marcas ponderantem, et unam galonam cerevisiae, ita quod quilibet eorum habeat unam galonam in diem. Et quod iidem tribus diebus in hebdomada vescantur carnibus, et quatuor diebus piscibus; ita quod unum ferculum, five de carne, sive de pisce, sive de caseo, sive de butiro, duobus bene sufficiat: Providit etiam ut in majoribus solempnitatibus per annum habeat duo sercula, (videlicet) in quatuor primus diebus Natalis Domini, in die Circumcisionis, in die Epiphaniae, in die Purificationis, in die Sancti Cuthberti, in Quadragesima (et in illo die solent dare salmones recentes pro uno ferculo si inveniri possent, sin autem, pisces recentes, si inveniri possent) in die Annunciationis, &c. in die Sancti Michaelis (sed illo die dantur aucae pro ferculo, et quatuor habent unam aucam pro ferculo; quod si die Veneris vel die Sabbati contigerit, dantur die Dominico proxime sequenti) in die Omnium Sanctorum, &c.
De vestimentis etiam providetur, quod quilibet eorum habeat per annum tres ulnas de panno laneo, videlicet de russeto vel albo, et sex ulnas de panno lineo, et sex ulnas de canvays, in communi ad manutergia facienda; et unusquisque quatuor denarios ad soculares, et sexies per annum unguentum ad soculares, et tres petras cepi per annum. In Vigilia Omnium Sanctorum habebunt quatuor trussas straminis, et quatuor in Vigilia Nativitatis Domini, et quatuor truncos ad quatuor ignes; in Vigilia autem Pasche quatuor trussas straminis; in Vigilia Pentecostes quatuor fasces juncorum, et quatuor in Vigilia beati Johannis Baptistae, et quatuor in festo beatae Mariae Magdalenae.
Quando habebunt carnes recentes vel pisces recentes, vel ova, habebunt unam mensuram salis continentem vicessimam partem unius rasarii
Three rasers made a quarter.—
Hatfield's Survey.
Et viij rasers farimae aven. unde iij rasers faciunt quarter'm.
.
In carniprivio habebunt unum rasarium frumenti ad faciendum simulam.
Cum unus obierit, quod de domo percepit, domui relinquat, et alius pro eo gratis recipiatur de terra episcopi, si ibi tot inveniantur leprosi; sin autem, aliunde recipiantur, cum Deus non sit acceptor personarum.
Fratres de communi consensu priorem eligant sibi de se, et sorores priorissam, qui sub magistro eorum eos regulariter custodiant.
Regula leprosorum talis est: Fratres leprosi per se maneant, similiter sorores leprosae per se, ubi quatuor habeant ignes ad quos quotidie a die Sancti Michaelis, usque in diem omnium sacro sanctorum habebunt duas sportas petarum, prout predicitur, illis diebus quibus habent fercula duplicia; et a die omnium sacro sanctorum usque ad diem Pasche, habebunt quatuor sportas quolibet die; et duas sportas petarum praeter praedictas illis diebus quibus habent fercula duplicia. Sporta vero petaram debet continere quinque rasaria frumenti et duas kenones. In Vigilia vero Nativitatis Domini habebunt quatuor magnos truncos ad quatuor ignes, et unusquisque erit unicis quadrigatae; item in aestate quum ducuntur petae habebunt fracturas reliquarum petarum.
Si autem aliquis frater leprosus vel soror languerit, ita quod de eo desperatur, habebit ignem et candelam et omnia necessaria quantum oportuerit donec melioretur vel moriatur. Item die quo aliquis sepelietur, potus et cibus detur sepelientibus; similiter eorum scissor die quo scindit pannos suos, habebit cibum et potum: Habebunt etiam quolibet die dominico per annum decem panes albos, scilicet, quinque fratribus et quinque sororibus, qui dispositione prioris et priorissae debent dari magis languentibus. Sciendum etiam quod habebunt in qualibet hebdomada per annum bis vel semel ad minus pisces recentes si inveniri poterint, sed aliquando per defectum piscium dentur allecia rubea, aliquando caseus, aliquando butirum, secundum tempora, et quum dantur allecia, unicuique dentur tria, quum vero butirum vel caseus tunc detur omnibus in commune pondus unius petrae et dimidium. A Pascha vero usque ad Pentecosten per defectum piscium, casei et butiri, dentur aliquando ova, unicuique scilicit tria: A Pentecoste usque ad festum Sancti Michaelis non dantur allecia rubea; sed bene cavendum est quod nec putridum, nec corruptum vel morticinum illis erogetur. Item in quadragesima habebunt duo rasaria fabarum ad assandum; in festo Sancti Michaelis duo rasaria pomorum: Item debent habere coquinam et coqum ad eorum cibum faciendum, et focale ad coquinam sufficiens et utensilia convenientia, scilicet, unum plumbum et duas ollas oereas, unum tabulam, unam tinam, unum alveolum, duas cunas ad cerevisiam eorum suscipiendum, duas cunas ad balneandum: Item habebunt haec utensilia in domo, quatuor plumbos, quatuor patellas, quatuor tripotes, duos alveos, unum beseche, et unum tribulum ad sepeliendum mortuos: Item facient aliquando olera, aliquando porretum, aliquando fabas secundum tempora, et quando facient olera, habebunt quotidie praeter Sabbatum, unam mensuram grossae farinae avenarum, continentem septimam partem unius rasarii; sed omni die Sabbati habebunt illam mensuram et dimidium pultium ad faciendum gruelam: Habebunt etiam pultes in Vigilia omnium Sacro Sanctorum, Nativitatis Domini, Ascensionis, Johannis Baptistae, Assumptionis, die cinerum: Item habebunt diebus piscium ad eorum coquinam, unam mensuram salis continentem sexagesimam tertiam partem unius rasarii ad potagium saliendum: Item vetula quae ministrat infirmis, habebit qualibet hebdomada tres panes frumenti, et unum ferculum carnium vel piscium secundum tempora.
Item habebunt duas Lotrices quae lavabunt pro omnibus aliis operibus qualibet die Sabbati eorum capita, et bis in septimana eorum pannum, et cotidie eorum utensilia.
Item habebunt unum capellanum de praedictis quatuor capellanis assignatum ad divina facienda, confessiones audiendas, et ea quae sacris pertinent ad plenum persequenda, et ad evangelium legendum in domibus leprosorum diebus dominicis et aliis festis majoribus languentibus qui non possunt ire ad ecclesiam, similiter et ad exequias mortuorum faciendas.
Item habebunt in festis solempnibus in eorum capella luminarium competens dum celebrant divina, et similiter thus horis debitis: Dominicis vero diebus aspersionem aquae benedictae, panem benedictum, et alia quae decent.
Item conceditur quod communes servientes eorum et speciales possint ire et redire sine impedimento, et vendere non placentia, et emere placentia, et alia negotia expedire.
Item conceditur illis quod amici eorum et benevolentes possint sine impedimento eos visitare et consortare, et cum eis moram per noctem facere, scilicet longe venientes et advenae; noti vero et propinqui die quo veniunt recedant.
Item omnes domus eorum bene cooperiantur et nullum nocumentum patiantur, similiter, ductus aquae eorum ita conservetur, ut nullum defectum aquae patiantur, licebit etiam eis sine impedimento ire et redire ad soveam juxta cimiterium ubi colligunt aquam ad purgandas eorum domus.
Item portae eorum non debent claudi ante pulsationem collationis.
Item habebunt f
retrum ad mortuos ferendos: Omnes autem fratres et sorores qui fortes sunt, de nocte surgant ad matutinam, et intrent in capellam suam et horas suas more suo dicant, videlicet, pro matutinis xxvi. pater noster, scilicet, tresdecim pro matutina diei, et tresdecim pro matutina beatae Mariae; pro prima, quatuordecim, pro nona quatuordecim; pro vesperis, octodecim; pro completorio, quatuordecim; ita ut medietatem dicant pro horis diei, et medietatem pro horis beatae Mariae.
Postea quilibet eorum dicat viginti et quinque pater noster pro peccatis propriis, et totidem pro animabus episcoporum Dunelmensium, et omnium fidelium defunctorum, ita ut tam de die quam de nocte centum et sexaginta pater noster compleant.
Illi autem qui debiles sunt in lectis se erigant, et ibi matutinas suas dicant; debiliores in pace jaceant, et quod dicere possunt dicant: Qualibet hora pulsetur signum eorum tam de die quam de nocte, et ante prandium et post, quod pulsabit unus de sanioribus fratribus huic officio deputatus, qui preces eorum dicet; post completorium maneant in silentio, donec in crastino prima pulsetur et dicatur, nisi aliter cogat necessitas, ut infirmitas vel aliquod humanitus.
Ad eorum observantiam detur eis ferula, cujus custodiam habebit prior ut modo scholarium inde corrigat inobedientes, et statuta transgredientes, et excitet desides et negligentes.
Si quis autem inveniatur inobediens et contrarius et per ferulam noluerit corrigi, detrahantur ei victualia usque panem et aquam tantum, semel, secundo, tertio, et si adhuc perseveraverit inobediens et contumax, a communione fratrum ejiciatur, et alius pro eo statim substituatur.
Cum aliquis frater vel soror obierit, quilibet eorum dicet pro eo infra triginta dies proxime sequentes ccc. pater noster, exceptis orationibus quotidianis.
Omnes fratres veniantin capella sua ad disciplinam tribus diebus in hebdomada, scilicet, in quadragesima et adventu domini; scilicet secundo, quarta, et sexta feria, nisi aliter cogat necessitas, vel intervenerit magna solempnitas.
Idem faciant sorores in capella sua praesente priorissa cum sacerdote donec omnes vapulent.
Procurator autem dictae domus audiet quater in anno computationes suas, scilicet in quatuor quarteriis anni de servientibus suis.
Habebunt etiam praedicti fratres et sorores annuatim quinque solidos et quinque denarios in die exaltationis Sanctae Crucis, die anniversario Dom. Martini de Sanctae Cruce quondam praedictae domus procuratoris.
Haec omnia statuit Ricardus Dei gratia Dunelmensis episcopus et carta sua confirmavit, et inviolabiliter observari praecepit.
By these constitutions it appears that the chapel first erected was dedicated to God, Mary Magdalen, and St Nicholas, and was served by three priests and four clerks, part to officiate at the altar of Mary Magdalen; and as the hospital was to receive both sexes, other part to officiate at the altar of St Nicholas, where the women were to hear mass, the chapel being situated at the south door of their house; so that it seems the men and women had houses at separate sides of the area. Bishop Kellaw, for greater decorum, built a new chapel on the north side of the great chapel, which he dedicated to the Blessed Virgin, and where he ordered mas
to be celebrated daily to the brethren, and to this service he appointed a fourth priest. On dominical days and great solemnities, he ordered service to be performed by all the priests to both men and women; the men being preceded by their prior, and the women by their prioress. The procurator or master was not confined to be in clerical orders; but was restrained to that moderation that he should not keep more than three horses without some urgent necessity. The priests and clerks were to lie in the chamber next the chapel, unless the master required one to lodge in his chamber: And the master and all others were to dine and sup in the hall. Bishop Kellaw appointed the times of service, and the burning of lights before the altar. The number of lepers to be entertained being sixty-five, the mess was directed, each to have a loaf and a gallon of beer daily; three days in the week flesh meat, and four days fish, so that one dish of meat, fish, cheese or butter, should serve two: But on great days two dishes were to be provided, particularly on quadragesima day they were to have fresh salmon or other fish, if they could be had, for one dish; and on Michaelmas-day they should have geese, a goose to every four; but if that festival happened on a weekly fast day, the goose feast was to be postponed to Sunday. They were allowed yearly three yards of woollen cloth, russett or white, six yards of linen, and six yards of canvas, with other necessaries, as trusses of straw and bundles of reeds, with four yole clogs for the vigils of our Saviour. The brethren were to chuse their prior, and the sisters their prioress. They were allowed fires from Michaelmas-day to the day of All-Saints; the measure of the peats
Fuel cut from the mosses of moor lands.
being fixed. Certain rules were ordained for the sick, for funerals, and prayers. From Pentecost to Michaelmas red herrings and salted viands were prohibited. Two washers were appointed, and an allowance for the nurses who attended the sick; and each member was allowed in money at two days in the year five-pence, and once in the year five shillings.
It is presumed the hospital continued to be regulated and governed by the foregoing rules till the time of bishop Langley, when great abuses were complained of, the pious institution being converted into private emolument, and the buildings suffered to go to ruin, that prelate issued his commission
Commission to enquire into dilapidations of Sherburn hospital, by Thomas Langley bishop of Durham, 4th of September, 1429.
, dated the 4th of September, 1429, directed to William Chaunceller, his temporal chancellor, and others, to visit and examine the dilapidations in the hospital erections, and to enquire of the abuses of the charity. Upon the commissioners reporting the miserable condition and poverty thereof, the bishop thought proper to apply to pope Eugene IV. instead of the king, for redress, who readily granted a faculty or commission to the bishop, to make new rules and ordinances for the better government thereof, which he accordingly made on the 22d day of July, 1434, and thereby appointed, that the future master should be in clerical orders, and that he should keep four chaplains, four clerks, or singing men, and two boys, chaunters; and ordained certain rules for the celebration of divine service, and for the conduct of the priests, clerks and boys
Nova ordinatio sive reformatio hospitalis de Shirburn, per Thomam Langley episcopum, ex commissione Eugenii papae quarti, 22 Julii, 1434.
. He directed that a tablet should be hung over the high altar, inscribed with the names of bishop Pudsey, bishop de Marisco, and himself, as also with the name of Martin de Sancta Cruce, that mass might be said for them. It thereby appears, that the leprosy (for the relief of those under which affliction this hospital was founded) was at that time almost eradicated, for he directs, that in remembrance of the original foundation, two lepers should be received into the hospital, if they could be found, but to be kept apart from the rest of the people admitted to the house: To those, thirteen poor people were to be added, to be provided with meat and drink of ten-pence value every week, or tenpence of ready money at their own option, and have yearly the sum of 6s. 8d. for fuel and cloaths, and to mess and lodge in the same house, and daily to attend mass. Upon the death of a brother, another poor man to be chosen by the master within fifteen days, under the penalty of paying a mark to the fabric of the church at Durham. An old woman of good character was to be provided at the master's expence, to attend the brethren, wash their linen, and do other offices. The master to have the care of all the goods and buildings of the hospital, and to take an oath for the due performance of all things stipulated by those ordinances.
We hear of no further abuses of the charity till the time of bishop Tunstall, when Anthony Salvin, then master, in 1557, presented a petition to that prelate, praying that a commission of enquiry might issue, with interrogatories
ad perpetuam rei memoriam,
which commission was accordingly issued, and depositions were taken thereon the 27th of April, 1557, and duly returned.
SIGILLVM HOSPITALIS CHRISTI IN SHEREBVRNE
In the twenty-seventh year of queen Elizabeth (1584, chap. 15) an act was passed for the incorporation of this hospital, and for the better regulation thereof, entituled
AN ACT
For the incorporation of the hospital of Christ, in the town of Sherborne, in the bishopric of Durham, whereby it was enacted, that the brethren of the said hospital and their successors, by the name of
The master and brethren of Christ's hospital, in Sherborne, near Durham, in the county of Durham,
shall have succession perpetually, and plead and be impleaded by that name, and by that name shall hold and for ever enjoy, not only all those lands, tenements, and liberties, and other hereditaments whatsoever, which by any name or names whatsoever have been heretofore, to and for the said hospital given and limited, which they do now hold or possess, as to the said hospital belonging; but also all other lands, tenements, or hereditaments, which shall hereafter be lawfully given or granted to them (holden in free-burgage or soccage, and not by knight's service or in capite) shall be holden of the crown in frankalmoigne; and that the said master and brethren and their successors for ever, shall have a common seal; and that all leases then after to be granted of any lands, &c. belonging to the hospital, other than for the term of twenty-one years, or three lives, shall be void, &c.
That the bishop of Durham for the time being shall have the nomination, collation, admission and institution of the master of the said hospital; the person that shall be so nominated, admitted master, being a preacher, having no cure or charge of souls elsewhere.
And the brethren, in number thirty, from time to time as often as any of their places shall become void, except the place of Randal White, (Thornley Brother) the master of the hospital to have the nomination, collation, admission and institution of the said brethren, in number thirty, except before excepted.
And that from time to time, as often as the said brother's place of the said Randal White, or such others as shall succeed him therein, shall become void, that— Trollop
Owners of Thornley manor; now the inheritance of Charles Spearman,
esq
and his heirs shall have the nomination.
And that the master of the said hospital for the time being, shall for the further and better maintenance of the brethren of the said hospital, pay yearly to every of the brethren of the said hospital ten shillings, over and besides their pensions, portions, livings, and dividends heretofore accustomed.
And that for the good order and government of the said master and brethren of the said hospital and possessions, such ordinances and rules not being repugnant to the laws of this realm now in force) as shall be from time to time made and set down by the bishop of Durham under his hand and seal in writing, shall be by the said master and brethren observed and kept.
And for performing thereof, the said master and brethren now being, shall take their corporal oaths; and every master and brother hereafter to be admitted into the said hospital, shall take the said oath before his admission or institution before the bishop of Durham for the time being.
Saving to all and every person and persons, bodies politic and corporate, &c. all such right, &c. as if this act had never been had or made.
Provided always, &c. that all leases hereafter to be made, of any of the demesne lands of the said hospital (which at this present are not in lease or demised for years, life or lives) shall be utterly void and of none effect to all intents and purposes.
Provided also, and be it enacted, that if any person which shall hereafter be master of the said hospital, do or shall during the time that he is or shall be master thereof, accept or take any benefice or living ecclesiastical; that then and immediately from and after such acception or taking of any such benefice or living, every such master shall cease to be master of the said hospital, and the said hospital shall be void to all intents and purposes, as if the said master were dead, any dispensation, licence, toleration, qualification, or faculty whatsoever to the contrary notwithstanding.
In the thirty-fifth year of queen Elizabeth (1593) a commission of charitable uses was issued, to which articles of enquiry were annexed, and whereon an inquisition was taken the 4th of May, 1594, touching this and other hospitals in the county, with other matters
Commission to enquire of charitable uses of all colleges, hospitals, almshouses, rooms, and other places for relief of poor aged and impotent people within the bishopric of Durham, 35th Eliz. Nov. 13, 1593.—
A similar commission is recommended at this day.
.
Bishop Matthew, on a visitation held in the year 1595, made ordinances and rules for the better regulation and government of this hospital, among which,
It is ordained, that all and every the brethren appointed by the said statute or foundation, shall willingly and presently (the cause of infirmity by the said maister to be approved only excepted) without delay, repair home, meet and come together at and within the said hospital at two several times in the year yearly, viz. the seventh day of September, being the day of her majesty's birth, and the seventeenth day of November, being the day of her highness's coronation; at which time the maister of the said hospital shall not only allow and perform to all and every the brethren so assembled, sufficient meat and drink for two days space, but also shall make before them some godly christian exhortation, to persuade them to godliness and obedience, and a continual thankfulness for the great benefits of her majesty bestowed on them and that hospital.
The maister henceforth shall not admit nor receive any married man having his wife alive, usually to lodge and continue within the precinct of the said hospital, and shall not permit their wives or children, or other friends and acquaintance to resort into the said hospital; and that the said maister shall not permit any of the said brethren to gadd or range abroad, without especial cause allowed and licence obtained, either by the maister or his curate.
If any of the said brethren either resident or absent, shall become a stubborn or disobedient person, a disturber of the common peace in that society, a despiser of the present state, a maintainer of factions, a drawer from obedience, a seducer from religion, a whisperer or spreader of lies, or a common frequenter of infamous or defamed persons or places; every such person convented or convicted thereof before the maister there under the testimony of four or five of the brethren then present, shall, according to the quality of his offence be punished or expelled, according to the order of the said foundation.
And if any of the brethren there resident, either in weakness of stomach, desire, or by wilful contempt, refuse and dislike the prescript-diet of the house, then the maister of the same hospital shall suffer or compel the same party to his own private provision elsewhere; giving and allowing yearly unto the said party or parties each one forty shillings, to be paid by ten shillings a quarter, as others absent formerly have been wont to receive; provided always, that no brother shall make sale of his place on pain of present expulsion.
Lastly; it is ordained by the said reverend father, that all the stock of goods and chattels, corn, hay, utensils, and implements of the said hospital whatsoever, shall be delivered by the former maister if he be living, or by his executors or assigns if he be dead, unto the successor and brethren by an inventory tripartite, as was done lately after the death of maister Dr Daile, whereof one part to remain with the bishop of Duresme, and another part with the successor, and the third part with the former maister and his executors; and to this purpose every new maister before his admission shall become bound to the lord bishop of Duresme for the time being in a bond of eight hundred pounds or more, for the performance, safety, and delivery of all the said stock of goods and chattels, corn, hay, utensils, and implements whatsoever belonging to the said hospital, at every change of the maister, according to the aforesaid inventory, and the commendable examples of his predecessors the former maisters of the said hospital.
Allowances of diet for the poor brethren of the said hospital.
At breakfast on work days.
One kind of milkness, one loaf of bread, weighing about twenty-four ounces to four, and small beer sufficient.
At dinner.
On Sundays and Thursdays two kinds of flesh meat, one roasted on Sundays,
and on the other days two kinds of milkness and one of milk, and another of fish or flesh as best may be provided, and each day to four a loaf of tempsed bread, weighing xxiiij ounces, and a loaf of brown bread, weighing xxiiij ounces, and single beer sufficient.
At supper.
To have as at dinner two kinds of meat, and their bread and beer in like manner.
At afternoon drinkings.
Every one to have a piece of bread cut to him by the butler if it be required, and a jug of beer amongst them that are there present at the buttery door.
Provided always, that none carry or convey any meat, drink, or bread from the table, save only to the buttery, upon pain of losing his commons three days for the first time, and a fortnight commons the second time, and expulsion the third time, when any shall be convicted thereof; and if any of them do mislike of these orders, or become discontented with this diet, the same to be put to his own provision, and upon request made to the master in good manner, the same to have such allowance abroad, as the said reverend father the bishop of Durham for the time being shall set down, if he be thought worthy to have any thing at all.
Provided likewise, that none of the said brethren presume to depart at any time out of the precincts of the said hospital and demesnes thereabouts for any occasion, without the special licence of the master himself, (if he be at home and about the house, or of his chaplain in his absence) upon pain of loss of two days commons for the first time, and one week's commons for the second time, and expulsion for the third time, as men undutiful and unworthy of her majesty's bounty in that society, &c.
Bishop Crewe, on his visitation in 1703, made other rules and orders. And afterwards bishop Chandler visited in August, 1735, and made new statutes, which, remaining unaltered at this time, are presented to the reader.
ORDINANCES AND RULES,
For the good order and government of
Sherborn Hospital,
in the County of Durham.
Ordinances and rules for the good order and government of the master and brethren of Christ's hospital at Sherborne, near Durham, and their possessions, delivered to them the twenty-sixth day of August, by Edward, by divine providence lord bishop of Durham, at his primary visitation of the said hospital, which was begun August the 14th, 1735, and continued by several adjournments to that day.
EDWARD, by divine providence lord bishop of Duresme. To our well beloved in Christ, Wadham Chandler, clerk, master of arts, master of the said hospital, Richard Grey, John Whitfield, and the rest of the brethren.
If the changes incident to all persons and things did not insensibly introduce deviations from the original constitutions of societies also, and make frequent reviews of the laws whereby they should be governed necessary, for preserving a consistency between men's practices and their rules, yet the present condition of Christ's Hospital at Sherburn in particular, would demand a speedy provision to be made against some evils the house labours under, and which by longer neglect may grow to be very detrimental to it.
For having in our visitation upon the place discovered that all the local statutes made by our predecessors, since the foundation of the said hospital by queen Elizabeth, with consent of her parliament, were either lost, concealed, or of no validity, for want of a ratification under the episcopal seal, as is required by her act; that their stocks of cattle and corn were destroyed and consumed in the time of the civil wars, by the two armies in the neighbourhood of Sherburn house; that no inventory hath been since taken of their goods, nor bond given by the entering master, for any sum of money to be paid to every succeeding master, as a fund in readiness for the occasions of the said hospital, and as was wont formerly to be given, we judged no time was to be lost in settling new rules, without which no society can well subsist, which may also be effectual for securing what goods and chattles are still remaining, and prevent further ruin to their common estate, which in a long chancery suit at this distance of time, after a succession of two or three masters, under a defect of full proofs, must be hazarded with small prospect of success.
In drawing up these rules, we have revived as many ordinances of the first founders as could be adapted to the present state of things, and followed those of our late predecessors where we could presume of their intentions by their articles of visitation which we have seen, and these rules so collected and hereafter following, we, by the authority given us by act of parliament, as well as the antienter constitutions of the first founders, bishops of this diocese, do for ourselves and successors, order and appoint to be the standing rules to be observed by all the members of the said hospital, until such time as any of our successors shall see cause, or in their wisdom think proper to alter or amend them.
And to prevent confusion by a disagreement of these with any former rules, (should any such come to light hereafter) we, after the example of our worthy predecessor Thomas Langley in his new ordination of the said hospital, rescind and annul all former constitutions, rules, and ordinances, made by any of our predecessors, and do substitute these in their place, as the only rules they shall be bound to obey. Given at our castle at Durham, the twenty-sixth day of August, being one of the days and places to which we adjourned our visitation of the said hospital, in the eighteenth year of our consecration, fifth of our translation, and in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and thirty-five.
Concerning the MASTER.
1. The master shall be always a person in holy orders, of the degree of master of arts at least, a licensed preacher, and one who is capable of business and applies himself to it, especially for the maintenance and prosperous estate of the hospital.
2. The master or his deputy appointed by him to act in his name, shall usually reside within the said hospital, for the better ordering and governing the members thereof, according to an ancient constitution of Tho. Langley bishop of Duresme; saving to the said bishop his ordinary jurisdiction over them.
3. The master if he be not constantly resident in person, shall often repair thither to preach and read lectures on catechetical heads to them, and to enquire and hear the complaints of the brethren when they have any, and see them redressed.
4. The common seal shall be kept by the master only, in a box locked up, and not to be trusted with the deputy, and the master shall be always present when the seal is put to any instrument.
5. The counterparts of the leases shall be preserved in the custody of the master himself, and as often as there shall be occasion to trust any writing out of his hands, he shall take a note for the safe delivery of it.
6. No demise of lands anciently used to be demised, shall pass otherwise than by the common seal; and no demise of lands not demiseable by queen Elizabeth's foundation, shall be accounted valid in law, though it be duly sealed with the common seal.
7. Upon sealing of any lease, twelve-pence and no more shall be given to every member that attends to sign the lease.
8. The demesnes at Sherburn shall never be demised by lease for years or lives, but the whole or at least the greatest part thereof shall continue in the occupation of the master or his deputy, steward or agent, so that there shall always be maintained on the ground a full stock of young cattle of all kinds, and a sufficient quantity of hay and stores of corn and other grain in the granaries, to answer all occasions of the house.
9. Upon the death, cession, or resignation of every master, so much of his stock and stores of all sorts, as shall be prized to the value of two hundred pounds, shall be delivered over to the succeeding master, who shall be legally intitled thereto from the preceding master, his heirs, or executors, or the sum of two hundred pounds for and in lieu and in full satisfaction for the same.
10. For the better securing of this two hundred pounds, or stock or stores to the value thereof, every master soon after his induction, shall be bound to the bishop of Duresme in the penalty of four hundred pounds, for the payment of two hundred pounds, or stock and stores of that value to his lawful successor, which bond shall be lodged in the registry of the bishop's consistory court, to be delivered up and cancelled upon performance of the condition by the preceding master.
11. An exact inventory shall be taken by every master at his coming into his place of all the plate, houshold goods, kitchen and brewing vessels, utensils in the dairy, cellar, and for husbandry, linen, bedding, and all other furniture, as well belonging to the house of the master, as the houses of the brethren, and three copies made thereof and signed by the said master, the one to be lodged in the registry aforesaid, with the bond for two hundred pounds, the other to be preserved by the master himself, and the third to be kept by the heirs or executors of the preceding master, who is obliged to leave the same as he received them at his entrance, according to the said inventory.
12. The original of these statutes to be safely locked up in the same box with the common seal, to be delivered with the said seal to the next lawful successor by the predecessor or his executors or administrators, and a book shall be prepared for common use, wherein these statutes and ordinances, as far as they concern the brethren, shall be fairly written, with queen Elizabeth's act of foundation in the 27th year of her reign, and such other rules as shall hereafter be made by any succeeding bishop.—These rules concerning the brethren are to be read to the inn-brethren at a full meeting once a year.
13. A quarto book shall be carefully kept by the master or his deputy, wherein shall be fairly entered the names of all the present members, and the time of their coming in, and when and before whom they were sworn; and as often as any of them die, the brother who succeeds him shall have his name entered, his country, parish, his age, and the day of the year of his being sworn, and by whom, and whom he succeeds, and till this be done, no person shall be reckoned a brother or member of Sherburn-house.
14. As many brethren shall be lodged within the house, as the ancient lodgings will permit, and have usually for many years past resided therein.
Of the BRETHREN.
15. In filling up the vacant places of the inn-brethren, a preference shall be often given to the out-brethren, who in the master's opinion deserve to be taken into the house, yet so as that it shall be a matter of choice and discretion in the master, and not of obliga
ion to proceed in that way.
16. These qualifications shall be required in every man that is admitted into Sherburn house as a brother; that he be a single person who hath lived well and creditably in the world, and is not at this time worth twenty pounds; that he be born in the county of Durham, unless by special allowance of the bishop, the county be dispensed with; and particularly that such as have lived within the manors, and been tenants to the lands of the bishopric or hospital estate, if in other respects they be as well qualified, shall have the preference; that he be of the age of fifty-six or upwards, never under; that he be not then labouring under any sickness, or incurable or infectious disease, though the lame and impotent should be considered in the first place.
17. He shall be a constant member of the church of England by law established, and continue so.
18. To this end we order, that every man that desires to be a brother, shall present a petition to the master, setting forth his case, with a certificate of his age, under the hand of the minister of the parish where he was born, and another certificate of his peaceable social disposition, and sober behaviour, and conformity to the church of England for some years last past, under the hands of credible gentlemen and others, neighbours to the place where he hath last lived; which petitions and certificates shall be filed by the master, to be produced when he shall be called upon.
19. No one shall be treated as a brother and member of this corporation, or entitled to any profits as such, who hath not first taken his corporal oath for performing such ordinances and rules as have been, and shall hereafter be made and set down by the bishop of Duresme, under his hand and seal in writing, for the good order and government of the master and brethren of the said hospital, which said oath shall be taken before the bishop, if he happens to be at that time in the city of Durham, or else before his spiritual chancellor, or the chancellor's principal surrogate, without fee.
20. Within a month after every vacancy, the master, if he be in the country, shall be bound to put in a new brother, or within six weeks at most, if the master be far absent; and upon the master's neglecting to fill up the place within that time, it shall be in the power of the bishop to name a brother without the master, who shall be accordingly admitted.
21. No woman, child, male relation or friend, shall be suffered to abide with him in the room or lodging of any brother, on any account, except a nurse to take care of the sick.
22. No brother shall presume to be absent from prayers, to go abroad, much less to lie out of the house, without leave of the master or his deputy, which shall be sparingly allowed, and the time of absence not above two or three days, and the leave to be noted in a book kept for that purpose.
23. The brethren shall attend duly morning and evening prayer, sermons on the Lord's day, and the holy sacrament of the Lord's supper, as often as it shall be administered, and they shall be there early at the beginning of the respective offices, and continue there to the end: And the better to know who performs this duty, the clerk of the chappel shall keep a weekly roll, with the names of the brethren, and prick at the name of every one present, and on Monday morning deliver this roll to the master or his deputy, in order to their receiving admonition or correction according to the heinousness of their offence.
24. The chaplain of the said hospital shall be constant in reading the morning and evening service, according to the liturgy of the church of England, and preach every Lord's day, and mostly upon catechetical heads, and administer the holy sacrament four times in the year at least, of which the solemn festivals of Christmas, Easter, and Whitsuntide, shall be three of the times; he shall be diligent in visiting the sick, and exhorting the well, as often as he knows of their doing amiss.
25. For the employment of their thoughts on the week days, a Bible and Whole Duty of Man shall be provided for every inn-brother, which upon the death of any of them, shall go with all the furniture of his chamber (bought by the master) to his successor; and they shall be often put in mind of daily prayers in secret in their own rooms.
26. No brother shall be allowed to be a drunkard, a fornicator or unchaste, a caballer or mischief-maker, profane, a despiser of God, religion or divine worship, injurious or unsociable to his fellows, disrespectful, saucy, or disobdient to the master, or in a word, be guilty of any notorious crime, or live a disorderly offensive life.
27. In all these cases the master to whom the power and authority of governing the brethren and servants of the house is committed, shall by himself or his deputy, or the chaplain, correct and punish the offender, according to the quality and degree of the offence, (that is to say) at first, by a serious admonition and warning, and then by suspending him from his diet for two, three, or more days, according to the master's pleasure: Provided that the suspension be never longer than three weeks at a time, and the value of the diet of the suspended person be divided among such of the brethren as are not offenders; and if after the exercise of such discipline, any brother shall go on to offend in the same way, the master shall then carry his complaint of him to the bishop, that he may be removed, or otherwise punished as the bishop shall think fit.
28. We ordain, that the said brethren who are well and sound, do eat together at dinner in their common hall or room, according to a constitution of Thomas Langley to that effect, unless for reasons to be given to the bishop, he shall dispense with this rule for any time. One of the brethren shall be chosen by themselves to say grace before and after meat, or give God thanks for the bountiful provision he hath made for them, and for raising up such benefactors to them.
29. The woman that is to wash their cloaths, &c. shall be of middle age, of good fame and conversation, as the same also is required of all the other servants and ministers belonging to the house.
30. We do revive and enforce the late orders concerning the manner of diet of the brethren throughout the year, with some few alterations, as annexed in a separate paper, which we order to be transcribed and hung up in the hall where the brethren eat.
31. Lastly, as to the relief of poor travellers at the gate, which hath been customary, and no doubt piously intended, we give no injunctions; idle vagrants should be discouraged and punished, necessitous travellers on their honest occasions supplied, but care should be taken that such as have no legal settlement be not made burthensome to the hospital, by an indiscreet relief, as is directed by an act of parliament for ascertaining of settlements.