Identity area
Reference code
Title
Date(s)
- [1272]-twentieth century (Creation)
Level of description
Extent and medium
7 volumes
Context area
Name of creator
Administrative history
Not every resident of York was a freemen, and not all freemen were residents. Prior to 1835, the freemen formed the electorate, served as the civic administration, and returned Members of Parliament. The proportion of locally-born and incoming freeman varied over time, and did the cost and ease of access. Honorary freemen were also appointed, often royality or members of the nobility. The corporation strictly regulated the freedom, punishing unfree offenders and overseeing the guilds.
Name of creator
Administrative history
In 1835 the status of freemen in York as the sole electorate, master craftsmen, traders and officials was ended as part of municipal reform. In 1953 a Gild of freemen was setup to "enhance the good reputation of the City of York" and "maintain and develop the rights and privileges of the Admitted Citizens and Freemen of York".
See also Strays Committee.
Repository
Content and structure area
Scope and content
The central recorded series of admitted freemen. The first volume has been previously known as C/Y [Continues post-Giles]. Records under 100 years old will be restricted under the Data Protection Act.
Accruals
System of arrangement
Conditions of access and use area
Conditions governing access
Restricted access (Data Protection Act)
Material is available subject to the usual terms and conditions of access to Archives and Local History collections.
Conditions governing reproduction
Images are supplied for private research only at the Archivist's discretion. Please note that material may be unsuitable for copying on conservation grounds. Researchers who wish to publish material must seek copyright permission from the copyright owner.
Language of material
- English
Script of material
Language and script notes
Finding aids
Listed to item level in Giles catalogue (1909)