Identity area
Reference code
Title
Date(s)
- [1272]-twentieth century (Creation)
Level of description
Extent and medium
19 volumes, 61 files, 4 maps
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.
Repository
Content and structure area
Scope and content
Records of the freemen of the City of York, pre and post 1835 reform. Includes registers of admitted members, of apprentices, disputes with individuals and the Corporation, papers relating to the management of the common lands known as strays and a wardmote court book.
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