THE BLACK DEATH IN THE LONDON AREA: DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE FROM STEPNEY AND VAUXHALL MANORS

Christopher Phillpotts †

SUMMARY the MDR catalogues for the counties of Surrey and Middlesex are now available on- Manorial evidence surviving from the London area line, but not yet those for Kent and Essex, in the year of the Black Death is sparse, but includes so the microfilms of the original slip books the court rolls from the Bishop of London’s manor of of these counties had to be searched at Stepney and the Black Prince’s manor of Vauxhall, Kew. The records of these manors were excerpts of which are presented here in translation for searched for ministers’ accounts, court the first time. These comprise a considerable proportion rolls and other relevant documents for of the evidence which survives for the epidemic around the years 1348, 1349 and 1350. Accounts the capital. The excerpts from Stepney serve to correct tend to survive more frequently than court figures previously published for the mortality within rolls, and there is a bias of survival towards the manor, and mirror the pattern of deaths in the City. ecclesiastical, monastic and royal manors, They also underline how populous were the suburban including the Bishop of London’s large areas which lay within the manor, and poignantly manor of Stepney to the east of London, demonstrate the impact of the disease on some of the and the Black Prince’s manor of Vauxhall poorest tenant families on the fringe of the capital city. to the south-west. Stepney manor included Stepney, Hackney, and parts of Shoreditch, INTRODUCTION Islington, Hornsey and Clerkenwell (VCH Middlesex 11, 19; see Fig 1). Vauxhall manor This note on documentary evidence for included Stockwell, Mitcham and Streatham the epidemic of 1348/9 results from an (VCH Surrey 4, 56). This note cannot claim to assessment of manorial sources undertaken cover a representative selection of manorial in support of a recent project on the Black evidence, but it comprises a considerable Death in London (Sloane 2011). This proportion of what survives for the relevant assessment listed potential manorial sources years within the study area. Presented here in parishes within a study area of a seven- are translations of the relevant entries on the mile radius around the City of London. The court rolls of these two manors (both held in manors active within these parishes in the the National Archives), relating to the deaths mid-14th century were determined from of tenants in these years. the relevant Victoria County History volumes There is a brief account of the Stepney and and the Manorial Documents Register, held Hackney court roll for the year of the Black in the National Archives, although the list Death in Hubert Llewellyn Smith’s History of is unlikely to be entirely comprehensive: East London, ‘as the only records which are

205 206 Christopher Phillpotts known to have been preserved with regard left standing sometimes inherited holdings to any Middlesex Manor for the Plague Year’ from quite distant relatives. However, (Smith 1939, 46—7, and pl 4). This is not McDonnell maintains that the tenants of quite true, as there appear also to be court Stepney adopted inheritance strategies to rolls from Balliol’s manor in Tottenham counteract the fissiparous effect of gavelkind (at Haringey Archive Service, Bruce Castle tenure (McDonnell 1978, 56). The appendix Museum), and ministers’ accounts for the below lists the customary tenants in the order Westminster Abbey manors of Hyde, Eia, in which they died, compiled partly from the Barking and Hendon (at Westminster Abbey reports of their deaths to the manorial court, Muniments); there is also a sergeant’s account and partly from the reiteration at each court of Lambeth and Lambeth Wick manors of the tenements still retained in the lord’s in Surrey in 1349/50 (at Lambeth Palace hands and not re-let, a list which grew longer Library). These additional documents have with each successive plague month. not been consulted for the present study. The monthly rates of plague deaths in However, the Stepney roll is certainly the Stepney mirrored those traced in the City most extensive known list of the dead of of London, and even anticipated them in 1348/9 in the London area. Smith stated that the first couple of months of the epidemic 121 tenants died from 105 different holdings in November and December 1348. They between February and September 1349, a reached a peak in the coldest months, in Feb- calculation derived from the Victoria County ruary and March 1349, suggesting that the History (VCH Middlesex 2, 78; Smith 1939, 47, disease was not primarily bubonic. There was 295). This is a serious underestimate, as a close another small peak of mortality in July 1349, reading of the roll reveals that approximately and then the epidemic receded (Sloane 335 deaths of customary tenants are recorded 2011, 45, 49, 51, 75, 84, 85 fig 6, 185—6). (see Appendix). A suitable multiplier would Smith stated that ‘the dead were buried in a have to be applied to estimate the number pit at East Smithfield’ on the site of St Mary of deaths amongst their families, and also Graces Abbey, without giving any reference among the free tenants, their families and (Smith 1939, 47). It seems just as likely that servants, all unknown factors. Up to two the dead from the southern part of the thousand persons are likely to have died manor were buried in the parish churchyard across the area of the manor in this twelve- of Stepney, while those from the northern month period. The population of the manor parts like Hackney and Holywell Street may suggested by the poll tax of 1377 can be have gone to St Mary Spital cemetery. calculated as 1,436 persons, using the rather For the manor of Vauxhall the evidence is uncertain figures of Smith (Smith 1939, not so full, traceable plague deaths extending 295—6; calculation from Barney Sloane, pers only from December 1348 to the end of the comm). McDonnell suggests a population court roll in February 1349, large parts of of approximately 2,500 for Whitechapel, the roll being illegible. However, it is clear Stepney, Hackney and Bromley in 1377, but that similar patterns of mortality occurred a more realistic total derived from his figures here amongst a smaller population. A system might be 2,265 (McDonnell 1978, 119—20). of ultimogeniture operated for customary This population is likely to have nearly tenancies on the manor, whereas free tene- halved in numbers since 1348 as a result of ments passed by primogeniture. the Black Death and the three subsequent Previous studies have also indicated the outbreaks of plague, despite replacement by impact of the Black Death on some areas immigration. further from London. The court roll of Har- It is clear from the patterns of names and mondsworth in west Middlesex in July 1349 the relationships recorded that death scythed and an accompanying list of heriots record through whole families. Most of the listed deaths of at least 46 tenants in that year. victims were cottagers, holding only a few While some of the larger holdings had passed acres of land. A system of gavelkind operated to heirs, most of the cottages and smaller in the manor, so holdings were often divided holdings were still in the lord’s hands (WC into fractions amongst several surviving 11437—8). It appears that the epidemic also heirs. By the later stages of the crisis, those caused heavy mortality at Malden in north- The Black Death in the London Area: Documentary Evidence from Stepney and Vauxhall Manors 207 east Surrey, from which the population never of Whitechapel and Mile End on the road fully recovered. The casualties of the plague to Colchester, and Holywell Street on the included two successive vicars in 1349 (Ross great road to the North, which all fell within 1947, 31). The deaths had a severe impact the manor (Fig 1). The parish churches of upon the economy of the manor, although Stepney, Shoreditch and Hackney and their some of the survivors among the tenants attendant settlements had probably been were able to take advantage of the changed founded in the 12th century or earlier. A situation. The surviving court rolls of 1349, subsidiary chapel of St Mary Matfelon had 1352 and 1354, and the account of 1353—4, been established by 1282 to serve the inhab- show that several tenements remained in itants of the ribbon development spreading the hands of Merton College, the lord of the eastwards along Algatestrete onto the open manor, because of a lack of heirs to the dead manorial waste beyond the Aldgate Bars; by tenants, including the mill and the vicar’s c.1320 it was called Whitechapel and had free tenement. Other tenements had been become a separate parish church. Beyond it rented out on new terms; many of them the road broadened into the great grazing changed hands in these few years. In 1354 green of Mile End, with houses clustered there was a loss of rent revenue of 53s 4d and around its perimeter (VCH Middlesex 11, 3, 17, many animals died of murrain (MCO 4671, 67). The main road running north between 4749—51). the liberty of Norton Folgate and the parish The Stepney material in particular merits church of Shoreditch, was called Holywell publication for a number of reasons. There is Street (Haliwellestrete, now Shoreditch High a need to correct the underestimated figures Street) from at least as early as 1336. Areas of stated in Smith’s History of East London for the land on both sides of the road to the south numbers of people known to have died in of the church were copyhold tenements the manor in 1348/9; these figures have been of the manor of Stepney, whilst parts of accepted by subsequent authors. The real the western side of the parish belonged to number of deaths recorded in the court roll prebendal manors of the Dean and Chapter provides a more definite basis for statistical of St Paul’s (Survey of London 8, 3; TNA PRO: speculation about the epidemic than most of SC 12/40/70). the evidence available. Finally the dry reckoning of death recorded The figures also have implications for the in the Stepney court roll gives an intimate characterisation of London suburban areas insight into the tragedy which overwhelmed in the mid-14th century. The estimated death the poorest of the tenants of the Bishop of toll of perhaps two thousand persons in the London living in the shadow of the capital manor suggests that the total population city in the year of the Black Death. at the onset of the plague was more than In the translated excerpts from the court four thousand people, assuming that the rolls which follow, folio numbers are indic- mortality rate in the Black Death was more ated in bold and headings recording the than 50%, as has been convincingly argued meetings of the courts are in bold italics. for the adjacent City by Sloane (2011, 106, Place-name headings (some of which are in 109). These figures are comparable to the the left margins) are in CAPITAL ITALICS, estimated populations of the royal admin- and personal names written large in the left istrative vill of Westminster or the borough of margins are in italics. Explanations about Southwark at this time. Although the manor words in the manuscripts, such as deletions of Stepney was large, these figures suggest a or interlineations, are shown by underlined high density of population in the old village italics; sections omitted from the translation centres of Stepney, Shoreditch and Hackney, by …, often with a summary description in the subsidiary hamlets of Stratford atte [square brackets]; and illegible portions by Bowe, Old Ford, and Clapton, and more ____. especially in the newer London suburbs 208 Christopher Phillpotts

Fig 1. The manor of Stepney in the mid-14th century The Black Death in the London Area: Documentary Evidence from Stepney and Vauxhall Manors 209

TNA: PRO, SC 2/191/60, COURT ROLL STILL HAKENEYE OF MANOR OF STEPNEY 20—23 EDWARD III [1346—9] Enquiry by virtue of his office: Sarra Pymme Also it was found by enquiry taken by oaths 26 membranes, sections missing and damaged, of 12 jurors, whose names appear at the end or badly conserved. of the next roll, that Sarra Pymme, who held The courts covered Stepney, Hackney, Mile from the lord 1 cottage with appurtenances End, Stratford atte Bowe, Holywell Street, in Hackney, has died, by whose death nothing Marsh, Poplar, Islington, Aldgatestrete and Old comes as a heriot because she had no animal. Ford, all parts of the manor of Stepney. And that her daughter Alice is her next heir, aged __, who did not come to fine, therefore m2 Stebbenhuth: still the court held there Thursday it is ordered to retain this cottage in the lord’s after feast of the Apostles Simon and Jude 22 Edward hands until etc. And to render the issues to the III [30 October 1348]… lord. [Afterwards ___ Alice died without heirs __ added] m2d Haldon Still ordered to retain in the Enquiry by virtue of his office: T and R Pymme lord’s hands 1 cottage and 2 acres of land with Also it was found by the same enquiry that appurtenances in Hakeneye which belonged Thomas Pymme and Richard Pymme, who held to John Haldon, lately deceased, who died from the lord 3 rods of land and a third part of a without an heir, as fully appears in roll 8 year 20 toft in Hackney, have died. And heriot nothing [1346/7] below __ as lord’s escheat etc. And for because they had no animal. And that Alice this a day is given at the next court to Matilda, [she died interlined and added] one of the sisters Alice, Margery and Agnes, who say that they of Thomas and Richard, and Alice daughter of are daughters and heiresses of Edward Haldon, Sarra the other of their sisters, are their nearest cousin and heir of this John, as they say, ie heirs, but neither came to fine. Therefore it is brother of Walter Haldon, father of William, ordered to retain etc. And to render the issues father of this John, on their claim etc, as to the lord etc until etc. appears in 4th roll year 21 [1347/8]. Also a day It was found by the same enquiry that Alice who is given to John Pod and his associates, jurors was the wife of Richard Sannford, who held whose names appear there, __ full examination from the lord ___ ½ of land in Hackney, has on truth of their claim. died, by whose death nothing comes as a heriot Lightfot Still ordered to retain in the lord’s ___ And that John, Robert, Richard, William hands 1½ acres of land with appurtenances and Ralph her sons are her nearest heirs ____ in Hakeney which lately belonged to Robert to fine. Therefore ordered to retain etc. And to Lightfot, lately deceased, and to render the render the issues to the lord etc, until etc. issues to the lord etc, until John, son and heir __ that Elen Fremans tenant has died, and they ____ by enquiry taken by virtue of his office at say that she held __ with a curtilage and 3 rods previous court which was in roll 18 ___ both for of land in Hackney etc as appears by roll 17 this land and for 1½ acres of land which Alice, below… who was wife of this ___ at previous court by inheritance from this John etc. STEBBENHUTH Sackyon Still ordered to retain in the lord’s hands 2½ acres and appurtenances in Stepney m4d Stebbenhuth: still Court held there Tuesday the which belonged to Sackyon lately deceased, as morrow of the Conception of St Mary 22 Edward III was found by enquiry which appears in roll 9 [9 December 1348] etc… Oldelond Still ordered to retain in the lord’s m3 Stebbenhuth: still the court held there Thursday hands 1 messuage and 10 acres of customary after feast of the Apostles Simon and Jude 22 Edward land with appurtenances in Stepney which III [30 October 1348] [surrenders]… belonged to John Oldelond etc, and to render the issues to the lord until John and Nicholas m3d Stebbenhuth: Court held there Tuesday the his sons and nearest heirs, as was found by morrow of the Conception of St Mary 22 Edward enquiry which appears on roll 20 year 22, come III [9 December 1348]… to fine etc… m4 Stebbenhuth: still Court held there Tuesday the m5 Stebbenhuth: still Court held there Tuesday the morrow of the Conception of St Mary 22 Edward III morrow of the Conception of St Mary 22 Edward III [9 December 1348] [9 December 1348] [surrenders]…

m5d [surrenders]… 210 Christopher Phillpotts m6 Stebbenhuth: Court held there Tuesday the feast __yndon And ½ acre of land which belonged to of SS Fabian and Sebastian 22 Edward III [20 P__ January 1349]… Walle daywork of land with appurtenances in Stepney which belonged to Roger atte Wall. HAKENEY Grene And ____ Alice atte Grene in Stepney, as fully appears in roll 2 at the end etc. Order to retain in the lord’s hands 1 cottage, And ___ until etc… 1 curtilage and 3 acres of land with appurten- ances in Hackney after the death of ___ until m7 Stebbenhuth: still Court held there Tuesday the William, John [dead interlined] and Peter [dead feast of SS Fabian and Sebastian 22 Edward III [20 interlined], his sons and heirs, as was found by January 1349] enquiry that appears in roll __, come to fine etc. And to respond to the lord for the issues Order to retain in the lord’s hands 1 cottage etc. after the death of Robert Wallere until heir is Order to retain in the lord’s hands 1 acre of presented etc. [Isabell daughter interlined] land with appurtenances in Hackney after Also 1 cottage after the death of Cristina atte the death of William Sonkete because __ wife Nok until heir is presented etc. [Margery of this William is pregnant by this William __ daughter interlined] etc, whose issue will be the heir of this ___ that Also 2 acres of land after the death of Agnes Margery has still not received it, and to respond atte Walle until heir is presented etc. [now to the lord for the issues etc. William Rogers, uncle of Agnes the daughter Order to retain in the lord’s hands 1 cottage interlined] with appurtenances in Hackney after the death Also 1 cottage after the death of William le of Sarra Pymme, until Alice, her daughter and Pulter until heir is presented etc. heir, as testified by enquiry at the last court, Also 1 acre of land after the death of Alice comes to fine. And to respond for the issues Curetiz, sister of John, until heir is presented from it etc. [Peter Coleman and John Coleman, etc. Enquire into names of heirs. sons of John Coleman, are the nearest heirs Also ½ cottage and 1 acre of land after death of interlined] John Stroud until heir is presented etc. Still ordered to retain in the lord’s hands the Also ½ acre of land after the death of Joan le third part of a toft and 3 rods of land with Wrighte until heir is presented etc. appurtenances in Hackney after the death of It was found by this enquiry by virtue of his Thomas Pymme and Richard Pymme, until office that Walter le Helder who held from Alice [she is dead interlined] one of the sisters the lord 2 cottages and 1 acre of land with of this Thomas and Richard, and Alice [she is appurtenances in Stepney, died after the dead interlined] daughter of Sarra, the other last court, by whose death nothing for heriot sister of Thomas and Richard, who are the because not heriotable. And that Geoffrey le nearest heirs, come to fine etc. And meanwhile Helder and Nicholas le Helder are the brothers to respond to the lord for the issues etc [Peter and heirs of Walter, and they came and sought Coleman and John Coleman, sons of John to be admitted. And they were admitted to this Coleman, are the nearest heirs interlined] inheritance, each by right. And they gave the Order to retain in the lord’s hands 1½ acres lord 10s fine by pledge of the Bedell. And they of land with appurtenances in Hackney after did fealty. the death of Alice [Sannford] until her sons Also ordered to retain in the lord’s hands ½ and heirs John, Robert, Richard, William and cottage and ½ acre of land with appurtenances Ralph come to fine ___ in Stepney after the death of William Jordan, ___ on day which he died ___ roll 16 below ___ until Agnes, his sister and heir, as is testified, comes to fine etc. And to respond to the lord m6d Stebbenhuth: still Court held there Tuesday for the issues etc. the feast of SS Fabian and Sebastian 22 Edward III [20 January 1349]… HAKENEYE

Haldon Still ordered to retain in the lord’s Ordered to retain in the lord’s hands 1 acre of hands 1 cottage and 2 acres of land with land after the death of Alice Brid, until heir is appurtenances in Hackney which belonged to presented etc. And to respond for the issues to ___ the lord. Lightfot And 1½ acres of land with appurtenances It is found by enquiry taken by virtue of his in Hackney which belonged to Robert Lightfot. office ie by William Lewys, John atte Hoke, And ___ with appurtenances in Stepney which Richard Luerchar, John ___ , ___eman junior, belonged to Roger Sherne. William Pymme, Peter Haming, John Ver, The Black Death in the London Area: Documentary Evidence from Stepney and Vauxhall Manors 211

Thomas Waryn, William ___, ___hent Pod and PLEAS OF HAKENEY… Edward Giffra_, sworn, that Robert Beneit, who held from the lord ½ acre __ in Hackney, died John Rolf querent [he is dead interlined] against since the last court. Nothing from heriot. And Ralph son of William Rolf in plea of trespass that John and John, sons of Robert ___ they [he is dead interlined] came and sought to be admitted. And they were admitted, saving the right of each. And PLEAS OF STEBBENHUTH they gave fine to the lord__ they did fealty etc. m9d Still the same court [pleas]… Ordered to retain in the lord’s hands 1½ acres of land after the death of Robert Sturgys junior, John brother and heir of John Alvard, came until heir is presented etc. And to respond to to this court and sought to be admitted ___ the lord for the issues until day etc. Richard is according to the custom of the manor to 1 acre his brother and heir but did not come. 3 rods of land with appurtenances in Hackney It was found by this enquiry that John le Rede, after the death of John his brother etc. And who held from the lord 1 toft and 22 acres of because it was found by enquiry etc, that he is land __ in Hackney, died since the last court, his heir, he was admitted, saving the right of by whose death nothing comes to the lord as each. And he gave the lord as a fine 5s. And he a heriot because he had no animal. And that did fealty… his uncle John on his father’s side is his nearest heir, and he came and sought to be admitted to m10 Stebbenhuth: still Court held there Tuesday this inheritance. And he was admitted, saving before the feast of St Valentine 23 Edward III [10 the right of each. And he gave to the lord as a February 1349] fine 18s. And he did fealty. Ordered to retain in the lord’s hands ½ cottage HAKENEY and ½ acre of land after the death of Robert Bischop Ordered to retain in the lord’s hands 1 Artour until heir is presented etc. cottage with curtilage and 3 acres of land with It is found by this enquiry that Alice, formerly appurtenances in Hackney which belonged wife of William Baroun, who held from the lord to John Bischop, as appears by roll 1, until 1 cottage with a curtilage and ½ acre of land William, his son and nearest heir, as was found with appurtenances in Hackney, died since the by enquiry taken at this court etc, comes alone last court _____. And that Emma, aunt of this to fine etc, because John and Peter, brothers Alice, is the nearest heir. And she came and of this William and his co-heirs, died since the sought to be admitted. And ___ of each. And last court, as was found by this enquiry etc, she gave the lord as a fine 8s by the pledge of and ordered to respond to the lord for the Ralph __enys. And she did fealty. issues. [Afterwards at the court held here on ___ that John le Rede who held from the lord 1 the morrow of the next view, this William came cottage and ½ acre ___ the last court. By whose and was admitted and he gave the lord a fine, as death there comes to the lord as a heriot 1 cow appears there, and he did fealty added] ___ is the nearest heir. And he came and sought Ordered to retain in the lord’s hands 1 acre of to be ___ 2s. and he did fealty. land with appurtenances in Hackney after the ___ from the lord 1 ___ death of William Fynkete, because Margery m7d Stebbenhuth: still Court held there Tuesday who was the wife of this William is pregnant the feast of SS Fabian and Sebastian 22 Edward _____ offspring, whose issue will be the heir of III [20 January 1349] [surrenders and licences this William, which Margery ___ And respond to demise]… to the lord for the issues etc. ____ 1 cottage with appurtenances in Hackney m8 Stebbenhuth: still Court held there Tuesday the which belonged to [Sarra Pymme] as was found feast of SS Fabian and Sebastian 22 Edward III [20 by enquiry which appears on roll 4 etc ____ January 1349] [surrenders, licences to demise, Alice her daughter and heir, as was then found exchanges]… etc, died since the last court ___ until Peter Coleman and John Coleman, sons of John m8d Stebbenhuth: Court held there Tuesday before Coleman ____ nearest heirs of this Alice, ie the feast of St Valentine 23 Edward III [10 February It was found by enquiry taken at this court by 1349] [surrenders and licences to demise]… the oaths of the jury written below, they came to make fine and respond to the lord for the m9 Stebbenhuth: still Court held there Tuesday issues. before the feast of St Valentine 23 Edward III [10 Ordered to retain in the lord’s hands 3 rods of February 1349] [essoins and pleas]… land and a third of a toft with appurtenances in Hackney which belonged to Thomas Pymme 212 Christopher Phillpotts and Richard Pymme, as was found by enquiry office taken at this court, comes to fine etc. which appears on roll 4 etc, because Alice, one Thomas Adam It is ordered to retain in the lord’s of the sisters of Thomas and Richard ___ Sarra hands 6 acres of land and ½ a curtilage with the other sister of Richard and Thomas, and appurtenances in Hackney, which belonged to their nearest heirs ____ by this enquiry, died Thomas Adam lately deceased, and to respond since the last court ___ oaths of jurors written to the lord for the issues etc, until John, John below etc, until ___ Coleman ____ and Richard his brothers and nearest heirs, as was found by equiry taken by virtue of his office m10d Still the same court at this court, come to fine etc. Robert atte Ponde It is ordered to retain in the Alice Hereward It is ordered to retain in the lord’s lord’s hands 1 cottage with a curtilage and hands 1½ dayworks of land with appurtenances appurtenances in Hackney which belonged in Hackney which belonged to Alice Hereward, to Robert atte Ponde ___ by enquiry taken by lately deceased, until the heir is presented, virtue of his office as appears etc, comes ___ ie Richard brother of this Alice, as was found by enquiry taken by virtue of his office at this m11 Stebbenhuth: still Court held there Tuesday court, and he should respond to the lord for before the feast of St Valentine 23 Edward III [10 the issues etc. February 1349] William Baron It is ordered to retain in the lord’s hands a sixth part of a cottage and ½ acre STILL HAKENEY of land with appurtenances in Hackney which belonged to William Baron, lately deceased Gonnild Smythes It was found by enquiry taken etc, and to respond to the lord for the issues by virtue of his office by the oaths of 12 jurors etc, until Richard brother of this William and whose names appear in roll 10, that Gonnild his nearest heir as was found by enquiry taken la Smythes, who held from the lord 1 cottage by virtue of his office at this court, comes to with a curtilage situated on 1 acre of land with fine etc. [Afterwards at the court held Monday its appurtenances in Hackney, died, of heriot after the next view, this Richard came and was nothing comes to the lord because she had no admitted by fine, which appears there on roll animal. And that John one of her sons and John 10 added] son of Robert, the other son of this Gonnild, Alice Adam Ordered to retain in the lord’s hands are her nearest heirs. Until they come to fine 4 acres of land with appurtenances in Hackney etc, it is ordered to retain this tenement in the which belonged to Alice Adam, lately deceased lord’s hands etc, and to respond to the lord for etc, and to respond to the lord for the issues the issues until etc. etc, until Cristina her daughter and nearest Roger Pymme It was found by enquiry that Roger heir as was found by enquiry taken by virtue Pymme, who held from the lord 1 messuage or of his office at this court etc, comes to fine cottage with appurtenances in Hackney, died. etc. [Afterwards at the court held here on the Of heriot nothing because he had no animal. morrow of the next view __ this Cristina came And that John Coleman and Peter Coleman, and was admitted etc by fine, as appears there sons of John Coleman, are cousins and heirs of in roll 18, and she did fealty added] this Roger, ie [blank]. Until they come to fine, it Alice Coleman It is ordered to retain in the is ordered to retain this tenement in the lord’s lord’s hands 3 rods of land with appurtenances hands etc, and to respond to the lord for the in Hackney which belonged to Alice Coleman issues etc until etc. lately deceased etc, and to respond to the lord J Aston junior It was found by this enquiry that for the issues etc, until Joan her sister and John Aston junior, who held from the lord 1 nearest heir etc, as was found by enquiry taken cottage and 1 acre of land with appurtenances by virtue of his office at this court ___ to make in Hackney, died. By whose death there comes fine etc. to the lord as a heriot 1 horse worth 6s 8d John Terri’ It is ordered to retain in the lord’s which was the best animal of this John on the hands 1 acre of land ___ with appurtenances in day that he died, which it is ordered to seize Hackney, which belonged to John Terri’ ____ until the next court etc. And that ___ his sisters until William his son and nearest heir ___ this and John son of Helen, third sister of this John court, comes to fine etc ____ [Afterwards it was found that John son of Helen William Curgys It is ordered to retain in the died interlined] ___ nearest heirs etc. Who did lord’s hands 1 cottage and 4 acres which not come to fine etc, therefore it was ordered belonged to William Churgis lately deceased, ___ this tenement etc, and to respond to the and to respond to the lord for the issues etc, lord for the issues etc until etc. until ___ William his son and nearest heir as ___ William Terri, who held from the lord 1 acre was found by enquiry taken by virtue of his ___ in Hackney, died etc. ___ and that William The Black Death in the London Area: Documentary Evidence from Stepney and Vauxhall Manors 213 and John his sons are his ___ to fine etc, it is as a heriot 1 bullock worth 4s. And that William ordered to retain this tenement in __ and to and John, brothers of this William, are his respond to the lord of the issues etc until etc. nearest heirs etc. Who did not come to fine etc, [Afterwards it was found that this John died therefore it is ordered to retain this tenement etc and that Alice, daughter of Alice, sister of in the lord’s hands etc, and to respond to the this William and John is their heir __ William lord for the issues etc, until etc. Coleman and Thomas Baker are commissioned about this because noone came ______added] STEBB___ It was found by this enquiry that Robert Coleman who held from the lord 3 acres of land J Oldelond It is ordered to retain in the lord’s and a third of a messsuage with appurtenances hands 1 messuage and 10 acres ___ which in Hackney, died, by whose death there comes belonged to John Oldelond, lately deceased to the lord as a heriot 1 bullock worth 5s. And etc, until John and Nicholas ___ as was found that Joan, sister of this Robert, is his nearest by enquiry which appears on roll 20 year 22, heir. Who did not come to fine etc, therefore it come to fine __ respond to the lord for the is ordered to retain this tenement in the lord’s issues etc… hands etc, and to respond to the lord for the issues etc until etc. [Afterwards admitted, as m12 Stebbenhuth: still the Court held there on appears in roll 20 added]. Tuesday before the feast of St Valentine the Martyr It is found by this enquiry that Alice Donmawes, 23 Edward III [10 February 1349] who held from the lord 3 __ 1 cottage with appurtenances in Hackney, died, from whose Christina atte Noke Ordered to retain in the death ____ heriot because she had no animal lord’s hands 1 cottage with the appurtenances etc. And that H___ came to fine etc ___ in Stepney which belonged to Cristina atte Noke, lately deceased etc, until her daughter m11d Still the same court Margery, next heir as found by enquiry, comes to fine etc, and to render the issues to the lord STILL HAKENEY etc. Let it remain. Agnes atte Walle Ordered to retain in lord’s Alice Terry It was found by this enquiry that hands 2 acres of land with the appurtenances appears in roll 10 that Alice Terri [who was the in Stepney which belonged to Agnes atte Walle wife of John Terri interlined], who held from lately deceased etc, until Simon Salamon and the lord 1 acre of land and a third part of a Roger the uncle and Agnes daughter of William cottage with appurtenances in Hackney, died, the other uncle etc, the nearest heirs of this by whose death there comes to the lord as a Agnes, as found by this enquiry, come to fine heriot 1 cow worth 6s 8d. And that William, son etc, and to render the issues to the lord etc. Let of this Alice, is her nearest heir etc, who did it remain. not come to fine etc, therefore it is ordered to William Pulter Ordered to retain in lord’s hands retain this tenement in the lord’s hands etc, 1 cottage with the appurtenances in Stepney and to respond to the lord for the issues etc after the death of William le Pulter etc, until until etc. Roger his son and nearest heir etc, as found by William Litel John It was found by this enquiry this enquiry, comes to fine etc, and to render that William Litel John, who held from the the issues to the lord etc. Let it remain. lord 1 acre of land and a fifth part of a cottage Alice Curteys Ordered to retain in lord’s hands 1 with appurtenances in Hackney, died, by whose acre of land in Stepney with the appurtenances death nothing comes to the lord as a heriot after the death of Alice Courteys, sister of John because he had no animal. And that William Curteys etc, and to render the issues to the lord and Ralph his sons are his nearest heirs etc. until the heir is presented. And because it is And they did not come to fine etc, therefore it not known who should be the heir, therefore is ordered to retain this tenement in the lord’s it should be inquired etc by these jurors at the hands etc and to respond to the lord for the next court. issues etc, until etc. [Afterwards it was found Joan Wright It is ordered to retain in the lord’s that William and Ralph died and that John, hands ½ acre of land with appurtenances in Richard, Walter and Roger are brothers of this Stepney after the death of Joan Wright etc, and William, nearest added] to respond to the lord for the issues etc, until William Chapman junior It was found by this the heir is presented etc. And because it is not enquiry that William Chapman junior, who held known who should be __ they have a day to from the lord 3 acres of land and a third part certify to the next court etc. of a cottage with appurtenances in Hackney, ___ in the lord’s hands moiety of 1 cottage died, by whose death there comes to the lord and ½ acre of land with appurtenances ___ 214 Christopher Phillpotts of William Jurdon, until Agnes his sister and because he had no animal. And that the jury nearest heir __ comes to fine etc do not know the names of heirs. Therefore a ___ 1 acre of land with appurtenances in day should be had at the next court. Therefore Stepney lying ___ after the death of Margery it is ordered etc and he should respond for the atte Gate bastard, who held it ___ who died issues etc, until etc. without an heir etc, which acre to the lord __ John Brouning Also that John Brounyng, who as his escheat, as it was found by enquiry which held from the lord 1 cottage, 4½ acres of land appears on roll 8 of this roll __ and to respond with the appurtenances in Stepney, has died, to the lord for the issues etc. by whose death there comes to the lord as a It is found by enquiry taken by virtue of his heriot 1 cow worth 5s. And that his daughter office by the oaths of Roger atte Tounesende, Alice is his nearest heir, who did not come Ralph Coleman, Richard Sondes, Richard etc, therefore it is ordered etc, and he should Chiver, Thomas le Mayster, Andrew atte Watere, respond for the issues etc, until etc. John Curteys, Richard Jordan, Roger Spileman, ___ Wrighte Also that Salamon le Wrigte, William Bat, William atte Flete and John Helm freeman, who held from the lord 1 cottage _ that James atte Dour and his wife Alice, who __ has died, by whose death nothing comes to held from the lord as ___ 1 cottage and 1½ the lord as a heriot ___ and John his sons are acres of land with appurtenances in Stepney, his nearest heirs, who did not come ___ until died, after whose deaths nothing comes to the etc. [And because this John after the death of lord as a heriot because they had no animal. ___ Salamon held from the lord, John Gisors as On __ John son of William de Huntingdon, heir ___ so this Thomas was admitted etc to the brother and heir of this ___ admitted by fine customary land as appears in roll ___ added] etc, and he offered the lord ______Bat Also that John le Batt, who held from ___ Stepney, has died, by whose death ___ m12d still the same court Salamon his brother is his nearest heir, who did not come ___ Hugh Barcan Also that Hugh Barcan, who held from the lord 1 cottage and 3 acres of land with m13 Stebbenhuth: Court held there Thurday after appurtenances in Stepney, had died, by whose feast of St Gregory the Pope 23 Edward III [19 death there comes to the lord as a heriot 1 black March 1349] mare worth 3s. And that Hugh and Adam, his sons, are his nearest heirs, who did not come PLEAS OF STEBBENHUTH etc, therefore it is ordered etc. and he should Huntyngdon John son of William de Huntyngdon respond for the issues etc, until etc. [Afterwards [he is dead interlined] petitioner versus Edmund they came and were admitted, saving the right Cobbe [he is dead interlined] in a plea of land of each etc, in the court held on the morrow of ___... the view in the year 24 added] __ ordered to seize into the lord’s hands ½ acre Thomas Brounyng Also that Thomas Broning, of land with appurtenances in Stepney which who held from the lord 8 acres of land, has Agatha la G__ holds __ John Andreu [he is died, by whose death nothing comes to the dead interlined] petitions against her… lord as a heriot because he had no animal. And that John, John and Thomas [Thomas died m13d still the same court interlined] his sons are his nearest heirs, who did not come etc, therefore its is ordered etc. William atte Grove It was found by this enquiry and he should respond for the issues etc, until that William atte Grove, who held from the lord etc. 1 cottage and 2 acres of land with appurtenances Margaret Goding Also that Margaret Godyng, in Hackney, has died, by whose death there who held from the lord 1 cottage and 1 rod of comes to the lord as a heriot 1 pig worth 18d. land with appurtenances in Stepney, has died, And that John his son is his heir etc. And he by whose death nothing comes to the lord as did not come to fine, therefore it is ordered to a heriot because she had no animal. And that retain this tenement in the lord’s hands etc, and Roger and Richard sons of Roger Godyng, he should respond for the issues etc, until etc. and William son of Robert Godyng, uncles of [Afterwards it was found by enquiry that this this Margaret, are her nearest heirs, who did John died and that Alice, sister of this William, not come, therefore it is ordered etc. And he and John son of Helen, the other sister of this should respond for the issues etc, until etc. William, are the nearest heirs added] Robert Smith Also that Robert Smyth, who held John le Rode Also that John le Rodde of Clopton, from the lord 1 cottage with appurtenances in who held from the lord 1 cottage and 8 acres Stepney, has died. And nothing from heriot, of land in Hackney, died etc. And that there The Black Death in the London Area: Documentary Evidence from Stepney and Vauxhall Manors 215 came as a heriot 1 horse worth 10s. and that come, therefore it was ordered to be retained John his son is heir etc. And he did not come, etc, and that he should respond for the issues therefore it is ordered to retain etc, and he etc, until etc. should respond for the issues etc, until etc. Alice Hemmyng Also that Alice Hemmyng, who [Afterwards at the next court this John came held from the lord 1 toft ___ nothing comes and was admitted etc for fine as appears in this as a heriot because she had no beast. And that court etc, and he did fealty added] her son Richard __ therefore it is ordered to Alice Pymme Also that Alice Pymme, who held be retained etc, and he should respond for the from the lord 3 acres of land etc, died. And issues etc, until etc. [Afterwards __ admitted by nothing came to the lord as a heriot because fine ___ added] she had no beast etc. That William, John and Stephen her sons are heirs. And they did not m14 Stebbenhuth: still the Court held there Thurday come etc, therefore it is ordered to retain this after feast of St Gregory the Pope 23 Edward III [19 land etc___ [Afterwards to the next court this March 1349] William, John and Stephen came etc, and they were admitted by fine, as appears there, and STILL HAKENEYE they did fealty added] Matilda atte Hull Also that Matilda atte Hull, Matilda Haldon It was found by this enquiry of who held from the lord 1½ acres of land etc in jurors whose names appear on roll 13 etc, taken Hackney, died etc. And that William her uncle, by virtue of his office, that Matilda Haldon, ie brother of her father John, and Nicholas son who held from the lord 1 cottage in Hackney of John, brother of this William, Matilda’s other etc, died etc, and that there comes to the lord uncle, are her nearest heirs. Who did not come as a heriot 1 cow before calving worth 40d. etc, therefore it is ordered to retain this land in And because the jury do not know the names the lord’s hands etc, and he should respond for of the heirs, therefore it is ordered to retain the issues etc, until etc. this tenement etc, and to respond for the issues Sabina atte Hulle Also that Sabina atte Hulle, etc, until enquiry etc. [Afterwards it was found who held from the lord 1 acre of land and ½ etc that Alice her sister; John son of Margery, acre of meadow part of 1 toft in Hackney, died her other sister; John, Nicolas and Thomas, the etc. And that nothing comes as heriot because sons of Agnes, her other sister, are her nearest she had no beast. And that William her uncle, heirs, and John son of Margery and Alice the ie brother of her father John, and Nicholas sister gave the fine for all of them added] son of John, brother of this William, her other Margery ___ It was ordered to retain in the uncle, are her nearest heirs, who did not come, lord’s hands 3 rods of land in Hackney which therefore it is ordered to retain etc, and he belonged to Margery Kynges deceased, until should respond of the issues etc until. John son of William son of this Margery, and Richard atte Hull Also that Richard atte Hulle, the nearest heir as found etc by this enquiry, who held from the lord 1 acre of land __ died comes to fine etc, and he should respond for etc, and that nothing comes as a heriot because the issues etc. he had no beast __ is his heir etc. And he did Richard Chapman de Humbtone It was found not come, therefore it is ordered to retain __ by this enquiry that Richard Chapman of Richard Pymme Also that Richard Pymme, who Humbton, who held from the lord 1 acre of held __, and that there came to the lord as a land and a third part of a cottage in Hackney, heriot 1 cow worth 10s. ___ is his next heir etc, died etc, and that there comes to the lord as a who did not come __ [Afterwards John died heriot 1 cow after calving worth 40d. and that and it was found by enquiry __ who came to the his son John is his nearest heir etc, who did not next court and was admitted by fine __ added] come, therefore it is ordered to retain etc, and Bartolomew Pod Also that Bartholomew Pod ___ respond for the issues until etc [Afterwards this moiety of 1 cottage ___ and that Richard and John came to the next court and was admitted John his brothers ___ until etc [Afterwards they by fine, as appears there. And he did fealty were admitted as appears on roll 20 added, then added] deleted] [It was found that Richard and John John le Ver Also that John le Veer, who held from __ who were admitted as appears on roll 20 the lord 1 cottage and 2 acres of land with added] appurtenances in Hackney, has died, by whose Richard atte Marke Also that Richard atte Marke, death there comes to the lord as a heriot 1 who held from the lord 1 cottage and 1 rod of cow worth 40d. with a calf. And that his sisters land in Hackney, __ and nothing comes as a Alice and Cristina are his nearest heirs, who heriot because he had no beast. And that his did not come, therefore ordered to be retained son Richard is his nearest heir. And he did not etc and to respond for the issues etc, until etc. 216 Christopher Phillpotts

[Afterwards it was found that Cristina died, of Alice and also after death of ___, brother of and Alice etc __ came to the next court and was this John, as fully appears in Roll 11 at the end, admitted by fine, as appears there, and she did 5s… fealty added]… Ordered to retain in the lord’s hands a certain It was found by this enquiry that Alice Pierys part of 2 acres of land ___ of share of Matilda who held from the lord ___ cottage in Hackney, Saykin junior, one of heirs of Agnes Saykin ____ died etc, ______[____ daughter of Alice sister until next court, because she did not come to of this Alice, was the nearest heir, and was fine etc. admitted as appears there __ added] It was found by enquiry written below that ___ held from the lord 1 cottage and 1 acre of Agnes Artour who held from the lord 1 ___ 2 land with appurtenances in___, has died, and acres of land with appurtenances in Hackney, that nothing comes as a heriot because he had has died, by whose death there comes to the no animal, ___ that Allan and John his sons are lord as a heriot 1 cow worth ______nearest heir his heirs. And they came and were admitted as ___ in the lord’s hands and he should respond tenants etc. And they gave the lord as a fine 4s. for the issues ___ by pledge of John Vincent. And they did fealty. Richard Canstere who held ____ It was found that John Walle, who held from the lord 1 cottage and ½ acre of land in Hackney m15 Stebbenhuth: still the Court held there Thurday ___, has died, and there comes to the lord as a after feast of St Gregory the Pope 23 Edward III [19 heriot 1 cow ___ William and Alan his sons are March 1349] his nearest heirs, who did not come ____ and to respond for the issues etc. [Afterwards William Richard Gille It was found by this enquiry held and Alan came to the next court ___admitted by virtue of his office by the oaths of 12 men by fine, as appears there, and they did fealty etc whose names appear in Roll 14 at the end added] etc, that Richard Gille, who held from the lord ___ Croft, who held from the lord 1 cottage 2 acres of land with appurtenances in Stepney, and 4 acres of land, has died, by whose death has died, by whose death nothing comes to the there comes to the lord as a heriot 1 foal ___ do lord as a heriot etc. And that Adam his brother not know the names of the heirs, therefore to is his nearest heir etc, who came and sought have a day at the next court ______[Afterwards to be admitted etc, and he was admitted as a ___ added] tenant, saving the right of each. And he gave as a fine etc 7s. And he did fealty. m14d Stebbenhuth: still the same court Richard de Ludgate Also that Richard de Ludgate, who held from the lord 1 cottage and 1 acre of STEBBENHUTH land with appurtenances in Stepney, has died, and that nothing comes to the lord as a heriot Ordered to retain in the lord’s hands the because it was not heriotable. And that John tenements which belonged to John de Oldelond son of Alice, sister of this Richard is his nearest (Roll 20 year 22), John de Croyndon (Roll 2), heir. Who came and sought to be admitted etc Roger atte Wall, John Doylonn, James Mannet and he was admitted, saving the right of each as appears on Roll 11 at the end, Cristine atte etc. And he gave the lord as a fine 5s and he Nok, Agnes atte Wall, William Pulter, Alice did fealty. Curteys and Joan Wrighte, William Jordan, Adam Spenythorne Also that Adam Spenythorn, James atte Dour, his wife Alice, John Skeke, who held from the lord 1 cottage with Cecil Wright, Nicholas le Cartere, Henry appurtenances in Stepney, died etc, and that atte Rothe ___, Roger Reysonne, John Dene, nothing comes to the lord as a heriot because Richard Umfrey, William Spileman, Hugh he had no animal. And that his brother John Baron, Thomas Brouning, Margaret Goding, is his nearest heir, who came and sought to be Robert Smith and John Brounynge smith, Sala admitted etc, and he was admitted saving the ___ and John Bat, as appears by Roll 12 etc, and right of each etc. And he gave as a fine 12d. and he should respond to the lord for the issues etc he did fealty. until ___ presented etc. William Warde Order to retain in the lord’s From Danekyne son and heir of John Brid and hands 3 rods of land in Stepney after the death brother and heir of Richard, brother of this of William Warde until William his son and Danekin, as appears by Roll 12 in the fine roll, heir, as this jury say, comes to fine etc. And he to have 8 acres of land in Stepney after their should respond for the issues etc. [Afterwards deaths, as appears there. Fine 20s and he did it was found that William the son died, and that fealty. Alice Warde his aunt, sister of William Warde is From John son and heir of Alice Curteys as fine the heir etc added] to have 2 acres of land in Stepney after death John Smith Also it is ordered to retain in the The Black Death in the London Area: Documentary Evidence from Stepney and Vauxhall Manors 217 lord’s hands 1 cottage in Stepney which Stepney, has died, by whose death there come formerly belonged to John Smyth until an heir to the lord as a heriot 1 cow worth 40d. And is presented etc, and he should respond for the that his son Adam is his heir etc, who did not issues. come etc. Therefore it is ordered to retain etc, Thomas Veyroun Also 1 acre of land in Stepney and he should respond for the issues etc until which belonged to Thomas Veyroun until an ___. heir is presented etc, and he should respond Edith Godings Also that Edith Godings, who for the issues. held from the lord 1 ___ and ½ acre ___ , died Also ___ of land in Stepney which belonged to etc, by whose death nothing comes as a heriot Joan Bene until an heir is presented etc, and he because she had no animal. And __ and Roger should respond for the issues. her brothers are her nearest heirs etc. Who __ acres of land in Stepney which belonged to came and sought to be admitted, and they were Alexander Cobbe until an heir is presented etc, admitted, saving the right of each. And they and he should respond for the issues. gave the lord as a fine 2s 6d. ___ Stepney which belonged to Robert Swetinge Adam Oldelond, his wife Frelona and Cristina until an heir is presented etc, and he should atte Watere [she is dead interlined] petition respond for the issues. against John Morice sadler [he is dead interlined] [___ his sisters are his nearest heirs etc added] in a plea of land. [Ralph] Gilsburgh in Stepney until an heir is Richard Hervy [he is dead interlined] petitions presented etc, and he should respond for the against Edmund Role__ [he is dead interlined] issues. [surrenders]… ___ Stepney which belonged to Richard Alisaundre until Gilbert ___ as they say, comes m16 Stebbenhuth: View of Frankpledge held there to fine etc, and he should respond for the Tuesday called Hockday 23 Edward III [21 April issues etc 1349] ___ 12 acres in Stepney which belonged to [common fines, brewers of ale, ditches un- Richard Walle etc until an heir is presented etc, scoured, etc]… and he should respond for the issues. [Andrew, __ and __ her sons and nearest heirs, m16d who afterwards were admitted etc added] __ 1 cottage which belonged to Joan, wife MARISCUS Thomas le Fysch’s heir, ale taster, of William Hawley in Stepney, until Robert and Roger Fysch, ale taster there, deceased __ Spileman, brother of this Joan and her nearest … heir, as these jurors say, comes to fine etc, and POPULER… he should respond for the issues etc. Also 3½ rods of land in Stepney which belonged STRATFORD Robert House, taster there, died, to Joan Jurdan, until Thomas and William so presented etc by the lord’s minister that ___ brothers and heirs and her nearest heirs, as they … say, come to fine etc. And he should respond for the issues etc. ALGATSTRET Roger Reyson ale taster there Also 1 acre of ___ in Stepney, which belonged died etc, so presented etc by the lord’s minister to Joan daughter of Walter atte Walteye, until that ___ … Joan daughter and ___ as they say, comes to fine etc, and he should respond for the issues HALIWELLSTRET Henry Bene ale taster there ___. died so presented etc by the lord’s minister that ____in Stepney which belonged to John ___ … Sweting, until W___ his brother ___as they say, comes to fine etc, and he should respond for ELDEFORD… the issues etc. ___ in Stepney which belonged to Thomas HAKENEYE… David, until John and Arn___ come to fine etc ___ m17 Stebbenhuth: Court held there on Wednesday ___ which belonged to Thomas le Hor___ to the morrow of the View 23 Edward III [22 April fine___ 1349] m15d still the same court PLEAS OF STEBBENHUTH William Erl It was found by this enquiry that [defaulters include:] John de Pulteneye [he is William Erl, who held from the lord 1 cottage dead interlined]… and 2 acres of land with appurtenances in 218 Christopher Phillpotts

PLEAS OF HAKENEY… to retain etc, and he should respond for the issues etc, until etc. Ordered to retain in the lord’s hands ___ William Levys Also that William Levys, who held lands and tenements which belonged to John from the lord 1 cottage and 1 acre of land Haldon as appears by Roll ___, ___ William adjacent in Hackney, died etc, and there comes Fynkett as appears by Roll 3, Sarra P[ymme], to the lord 1 cow before calving ___ Walter and ___ Alice who was the wife of Richard Sannford Ralph his sons are his nearest heirs etc, who did as appears by Roll 4, Robert ___, ____ Robert not come etc, therefore it was ordered ___, and Artour, John Saleman smith, Alice Hereward, he should respond for the issues etc, until etc. William Baroun, ____, John [Terri], William ___ Terri Also that Robert Terri, who held from Churgis senior, Thomas Adam, Robert atte the lord 1 cottage ___ in Hackney, died etc, and Ponde, as appear by Roll 7, ___, ___ Haldon, there comes as a heriot 1 bullock ___ of this Henry Coleman, John Coleman, ___, John Robert, and John son of Joan the other sister _ Aston junior, William de Correr, ___, John __ who did not come etc, therefore it is ordered Jurden, William Freman, Nicholas L___, __ to retain etc ___ _man junior, as appears by Roll 11, John V__ ___ Hemmings, ___ Hemyngs, __ Hemmings, Alice _, ____, __elymme, Walter Pod, Thomas Pod, Hemyngs Also that William Hemmyngs, who ___ William Wat__, ___, ____ Chapman, ____ who held from the lord ½ acre of land ___ of land. Alice Hemyngs who held from the lord ½ m17d still the same court acre ___, died etc. By whose deaths there come to the lord as heriots ___ And that Richard STILL HAKENEY Hemmings son of John Hemmings, brother of Richard Rolf It was found by this enquiry that William, John, Robert and Alice is the nearest Richard Rolf, who held from the lord 4 acres heir. And he came etc, and was admitted etc, of land [and half a virgate interlined] with and he gave the lord as a fine 3s 4d, and ____. appurtenances in Hackney, died, by whose John atte Grene Also that John atte Grene, who death there come to the lord as a heriot 1 held from the lord ___ appurtenances in bullock worth 4s. And the jurors say that Alice, Hackney, died etc, and there come to the lord as who was his wife, is pregnant by this Richard a heriot ___ Adam son of this John ____ nearest etc. Therefore it is ordered to retain the heir etc, who did not come ___ and he should tenement etc, and he should respond for the respond for the issues etc until etc. [Afterwards issues etc, until etc. [Afterwards it was found he was admitted ___ added] that this issue of Alice __ Richard, whose Richard Chapman Also that Richard Chapman, custody remains with Alice and her husband who held from the lord 1 ___ in Hackney, died Peter Coleman, they gave as a fine for this Alice etc and there comes to the lord as a heriot ___ and Richard ___ added] brother of this Richard is his nearest heir, who William Soloman Also that William Saleman, who did not come ___ he gave the lord as a fine held from the lord 1 messuage and 20 acres of ___ land with ___, died etc, and there come to the m18 still the Court held at Stebbenhuth on lord as a heriot 1 ox worth 6s, and that William Wednesday the morrow of the View 23 Edward III ___ heir etc, who came etc, and was admitted [22 April 1349] etc, and he gave the lord as a fine 30s and ___. Richard Robert Also that Richard Roberd, who STEBBENHUTH held from the lord 1 cottage and 6 acres of land ___ Hackney, died etc, and there comes to the John Reyson It was found by enquiry held by lord as a heriot 1 sterile cow worth 40d. And virtue of his office, by oaths of William atte the jurors say ___ who are the heirs. Therefore Flete, John Curteys, Roger Spileman, John a day should be had about it at the next court le Mayster, Ralph Coleman, John Oldelond, etc, and it was ordered to retain etc, and he William Fisch, Adam le Gal [in his place now should respond ___. [Afterwards it was found Richard Souber interlined] Alan Sweting, Robert that John Heron, son of Juliana sister of this Reysoun, William Bat and Laurence Brounyngs Richard, is the heir, who was admitted at the [in his place now Sal’ Halden interlined], that next court, as appears in Roll 20 added] John Reysoun, who held from the lord 3 rods of Richard Levys Also that Richard Levys, who held land and ¼ of a cottage with appurtenances in from the lord 1 cottage and 2 acres of land with Stepney, has died, by whose death there comes appurtenances ___, died, and there comes to to the lord as a heriot 1 plough-horse worth the lord as a heriot 1 cow before calving worth 2s. And that Robert and John his brothers are 3s 4d, and that Richard his son is the heir etc, his nearest heirs etc. Who did not come etc. who did not come etc. therefore it was ordered Therefore it is ordered to retain this tenement The Black Death in the London Area: Documentary Evidence from Stepney and Vauxhall Manors 219 in the lord’s hands etc, and he should respond lands and tenements which John Oldelond as for the issues etc, until etc. appears in Roll 20 year 22, John de Croyndon Also that John Reymund junior, who held from as appears in Roll 9 year 22, Roger atte Walle the lord 2 acres of land and ¼ cottage with as appears there, Alice Curtays as appears in appurtenances in Stepney, has died, by whose Roll 5, John Doylon, James Mannet as appears death there comes to the lord as a heriot 1 cow in Roll 6, Cristina atte Nok, Agnes atte Walle, ___ calving worth 3s 4d. And that his brother William Pulter, Joan Wright, William Jorden William is his nearest heir etc, who did not come as appears in Roll 7, James atte Dour and his etc. Therefore it is ordered to retain etc, and he wife Alice, John Sheke, [Ceci]lia Wrighte and should respond for the issues etc, until etc. Nicholas le Cartere, Alice atte Roche, Roger John Stillego Also that John Stillego, who held Reysen, John Dene and Richard Umfrey, from the lord, half of a cottage and ½ acre of William Spileman, Hugh Baron, Thomas land with appurtenances in Stepney, died, and Brouning, Margaret Goding, Robert Smyth, that there came as a heriot 1 bullock worth 12d, John Brounynge smith, Salomon Wrighte and that Alan and Alan his brothers are his and John Bat in Roll 12, William Warde, John nearest heirs, who did not come etc. Therefore Smith, Thomas Veyroun, Joan Bene, Robert it is ordered to retain the tenement etc, and Swetyng, Ralph Gilsburgh, Richard Alisaundre, he should respond for the issues etc, until etc. Richard Walle, Joan Hawley, Joan Jurdan, Joan [Afterwards they came and were admitted as atte Walteye, John Swetinge, Thomas David, appears in Roll 21 added] Thomas le Hore, Roger Lyenge, John Goldinge, John Broun Also that John Broun, who held Roger atte Walle, Alice ___, ___ Sander, Agnes from the lord 1 messuage and 4 acres of land atte Walle, Salomon atte Walle, Salomon Bat, with appurtenances in Stepney ___ 2 dayworks John Hac___, John atte March, Matilda Sander, of land which Mariona daughter of this John Henry Dene, John Reymund, Bartholomew holds etc, as appears below ___ has died, by Bernard, John Gilour, John Broun senior and whose death there comes to the lord as a heriot William Erl as appears in Roll 15, tenants of the 1 cow __ calving ____ his sons John, John and lord from the days on which they died, and he Edward are his nearest heirs, who ___ etc, and should respond for the issues etc, until etc. he should respond for the issues etc, until etc. Also 1 acre of land ___ atte Gate bastard, who ______, who held from the lord 1 cottage and ___ as the lord’s escheat ______of John Broun etc, died etc ___ in the From Walter son and heir of John Borgeys ___ lord’s hands as his escheat ___ they say that this land with appurtenances in Hackney after the Mariona was accustomed to render ___ to do to death of ___ fine 3s 4d the lord etc. ___ John, Richard and William sons ___ acre of ____ who held from the lord 1 acre of land in land with appurtenances in Hackney ___ Stepney with ___ his sister [and ___ son of Alice his other sister, are his nearest heirs interlined] m19 still the Court held there on Wednesday the is his heir, who did not come. Therefore it is morrow of the View 23 Edward III [22 April ordered to retain etc, and he should respond 1349] etc. Also that John Frost, who held from the lord 1 Simon atte Walle It was found by enquiry held cottage with appurtenances in Stepney, died etc by virtue of his office by the oaths of 12 jurors _____ because he had no animal. And that his whose names appear on Roll 18, that Simon atte brothers John and Richard are his nearest heirs Walle, who held from the lord 1 messuage and ___ they were admitted by attorneys. And they 6 acres of land with appurtenances in Stepney, gave the lord as a fine 2s, and they did fealty. died etc, and there comes as a heriot 1 mare ____ who held from the lord 1 cottage and 2 worth 2s, and that his son John is his nearest acres of land etc, heriot ___ Richard and Robert heir etc, who did not come etc. Therefore it is his sons are his heirs ___ he should respond for ordered to seize and retain the tenement etc, the issues etc, until etc. and he should respond for the issues etc, until. _____ who held from the lord 1 cottage and ___ Also that Roger Fromond, who held from K___ with ___ his brother is his nearest heir etc the lord 1 cottage and 4 acres of land with ____ appurtenances in Stepney, died etc, and there ___ 1 acre ____ comes as a heriot 1 mare worth 2s, and that Thomas his son is the heir etc, who did not m18d come. Therefore it is ordered to seize and retain the tenement etc, and he should respond STEBBENHUTH: tenements in the lord’s hands: for the issues etc, until etc. Also that Richard Olivier, who held from the It is ordered to retain in the lord’s hands all the lord half a cottage and 3½ acres of land with 220 Christopher Phillpotts appurtenances in Stepney, died etc, and there the death of this Robert, as appears in Roll 18, comes as a heriot 1 mare worth 2s, and that 10s, and they did fealty. Alice his daughter is his heir etc, who did not Remaining in the lord’s hands: It is ordered still come etc. Therefore it is ordered to seize and to retain in the lord’s hands all the lands and retain the tenement etc, and he should respond tenements with appurtenances which belonged for the issues etc, until etc. to John Halden as appears in Roll 8 year 20, Also that Nicolas le Helder, who held from Robert Lightfot as appears in Roll 17 year 22, the lord 1 cottage, 6 acres of land and half of William Fynke [fine 5s interlined] ____, Sarra 2 cottages with the appurtenances in Stepney, Pymme, Thomas Pymme, Richard Pymme, died etc, and nothing comes as a heriot Alice who was the wife of Richard [Sannford] because he had no animal, and that his sons in Roll 8, Robert Churgis junior [fine 18d Thomas and John are his nearest heirs etc, who interlined], Robert Artour [___ at next court did not come. Therefore it is ordered to seize interlined], Alice Hereward, William Baron, and retain the tenement etc, and he should William Churgis senior [fine 6s interlined], respond for the issues etc, until etc. Robert atte Ponde [fine 14sinterlined ], Thomas ____ Salomon Sweting, who held from the Adam as appears ___, Margery Halden, John lord 1 messuage and 11 acres of land with Coleman junior [fine 4s interlined], as appears appurtenances ___ etc, and there comes as in Roll 10, Gonnild Smythes, John Aston junior, a heriot 1 cow before calving worth 5s, and William Terry, Alice Donmawe, William C___, _ that ___ and Walter his sons are the heirs etc, __ Freman [___ 8s interlined], Nicholas le Rede, who did not come etc. Therefore it is ordered Alice Terry, William Litel John and William to seize and retain the tenement etc, and he ___, in Roll 11, John Veyre, Sarra atte Marke should respond for the issues etc, until etc. [fine 2s 6d interlined], John ___, William atte [Afterwards it was found by enquiry that Grove, Matilda atte Hulle, Sabina atte Hulle, Thomas and Walter ___ were admitted to ___ Richard atte Hulle, Richard Pymme, ____, as appears in Roll 21 added] [Thomas Pod, Robert Pod deleted] [because ___ who held from the lord 1 messuage and 6 ___ below interlined], Richard atte Marke [fine acres of land with appurtenances in ____ worth 12d interlined], Richard Long, William Waryn, 3s, and that his daughter Frelona is his heir Alice Longe, Richard Arnold, Matilda atte Hull ____ issues etc until etc. [fine 2s interlined], John Chapman [fine 2s ___ 8 acres of land with appurtenances in Stepney interlined], Richard Rolf, William Ralf [fine 8s ___ tenement retained in the lord’s hands. interlined], William Prichet [fine 2s interlined], ___ Cribbs ____ 8 acres with appurtenances in Alice Prichet [fine 3s interlined], Robert Stepney, died ___ jurors do not know who ___ Sannford junior as appear in Roll 13, Matilda Therefore it is ordered to seize and retain the Holden, Margery Kyng, Elena Pentecost, John tenement etc, and he should respond for the Pentecost and Sarra Pentecost, Adam Goderey, issues etc, until. John Waryn, Richard Adgoz, John Veer senior, [Afterwards there came Alice atte Hole, Agnes Artour, Richard Canster as appears __, daughter of William atte Hole __ added] tenants of the lord in Hackney from the days ____ who held from the lord 1 cottage at Poplar on which they died etc ___. in Stepney ______lord’s hands tenements which John Audren, John Fayre__, __ Cobenhagre, Alice m19d still the same court Adgoz, Richard Rolf, Richard __, Richard Chapman, John Alvard and John ___, tenants [surrenders and licences to demise]… of the lord in Hackney from the days ___ land with appurtenances in Hackney ___ m20 Stebbenhuth: Court held there Monday before It was found by enquiry __ Walter atte Gate, the feast of the translation of St Thomas the Martyr who held ___ and that Cristina, aged 12 ___ 23 Edward III [6 July 1349] who came and sought to be admitted ___ 20s STEBBENHUTH PLEAS… and she did fealty… m20d still the same court m21 still the Court held at Stepney Monday before the feast of the translation of St Thomas the Martyr HAKENEY 23 Edward III [6 July 1349]

From Richard and Thomas sons of William STEBBENHUTH Geffrey, cousin and heir of Robert Geffrey, as a fine to have entry to 3 acres of land a half Still ordered to be retained in the lord’s hands, a cottage with appurtenances in Hackney after the tenements which John Reyson, John The Black Death in the London Area: Documentary Evidence from Stepney and Vauxhall Manors 221

Reymund junior, John Baron, Mariona Baron, It is ordered to retain in the lord’s hands the Walter Auncel, Hugh Gamen, John Reymund tenements which Alice Puurtes, John Hervy, senior, John Gravele, Alexander Mareschal, ___ Walteye and Hugh Ost___ in Roll 19, John Simon Cartere, Thomas Underwode, Alan atte Sonders, John atte ___, Henry Sonder, Roger Watere, Richard Godings, Joan who was the Gamen, John Godlok, Roger Goye__, ___, wife of Salomon Golding, Salomon Oldelond Walter Mora_r, Roger Wrighte, Thomas Figgs, as appear in Roll 18, John de Croyndon, [Roger Richard Ponde, Joan ___, ____ S___, William atte Walle interlined], as appears in Roll 9 year atte Walle, Salomon Skeke, William ___, ____, 22, Alice Curteys as appears in Roll 5, John ___ Walteye, ___ Doylon, James Mauncel as appears in Roll 6, Cristina atte Noke, Agnes atte Walle, William m21d still the same court Pulter, John Wrighte, William Jurdon as appears in Roll, [Margery atte Gate as appears in Roll It was found by enquiry held by virtue of his 8 interlined], James atte Dour and his wife Alice, office by the oath of 12 jurors whose names John Skeke, Cecilia Wrighte, Nicholas Cartere, appear on Roll 18 that Nicholas de Oldelond, ___ Rothe, Roger Reyson, John Dene, Richard who held from the lord 1 cottage and 4 acres of Umfrey, William Spileman, Hugh Baron, Thomas land with appurtenances in Stepney, died, and Brounyng, Margaret Goding, Robert Smith, John there came to the lord as a heriot 1 mare worth Brounings smith, Salomon Wrighte, John Bat as 4s. And that John, brother of this Nicholas, is appears in Roll 12, William Warde, John Smyth, the nearest heir, who came and was admitted Thomas Veyron, John Bene, [Alexander Cobbe etc, and he gave the lord as a fine 16s, and he deleted], Robert Swetinge [fine interlined], did fealty. Ralph Giseburgh, Richard Alisaundre, ___, Also that Walter Swetinge, who held from the ___ of William Hawelot, Joan Jurdon, Joan atte lord 1 ___ Stepney, died etc, and that his brother Walteye, John Sweting, ___ Randy, Thomas le William __ he gave as a fine 4s and ____. Hore, Roger Lienge, John Goldings, Roger atte Also that Thomas Sw___ in Stepney, died ____ Walle, Alice Oldelond, Lettice Sonder, Agnes and he gave as a fine ___ atte Walle, Salomon atte Walle, Salomon Bat, Also that Matilda ____ died etc, and that ___ John Hartil, John atte March, Matilda Sonder, and he gave as a fine ___ John Reymund, Bartholomew Bernard, John Also that William de ___ appurtenances in Gilour, John Broun senior and William Erl Stepney, died etc, and that William his son___ as appears in Roll 15, tenants of the lord in was admitted etc, and he gave as a fine 5s and Stepney, from the days on which they died etc, he did fealty. and he should respond to the lord for the issues Also that Richard Pogges, who held from the etc, until etc. Also the tenements which Symon lord 3 acres of land ____ died etc, and that his atte Walle, Roger Fromond, Richard Olivier, sons John and John are his heirs ___ they were Nicholas Helder, Andrew atte Gate, Edward admitted and gave as a fine 10s and they did Cobbe, Walter Cobbe, Roger Gardeneys, fealty. tenants of the lord, from the days on which It was found by enquiry held by virtue of his they died, as appears in Roll 19, and he should office by the oaths of W___ Flete, ____ Spileman, respond for the issues etc, until etc. John le Mayster, Ralph Coleman, John ____, From John son and heir of John Oldelond as Alan Sweting, Robert Reysoun, Walter Bat, ___ a fine to have entry into 1 messuage and 10 , that ___ R____, who held from the lord____ acres of land ___ after the deaths of this John m22 still the Court held there Monday before the Oldelond and his son Nicholas, as appears in feast of the translation of St Thomas the Martyr 23 Roll 20 ___ and he did fealty. Edward III [6 July 1349] ___ to have entry into 8 acres of land ___ Henry as appears in Roll 15, 30s ___ [surrenders etc; bottom half illegible]… ___ to have entry into half ___ as appear in Roll 18, 3s and he did ___ m22d still the same court ___ to have entry into 1 messuage and ______of his father, and Thomas and Walter sons ___ Agnes Sweting It was found by this enquiry, as __ Adam Denys and Richard Goldings, and he appears ___, that Agnes Sweting, who held from did fealty. the lord ½ acre of land with appurtenances in ____ Richard Hervy, Roger Taillour of Stratford, Stepney, died etc, and that John, son of her ____, John Hatheley, [Andrew Pond deleted] son Robert, is the nearest heir etc, who did not [___ 12 acres interlined], John de Stratford come etc. Therefore it is ordered to retain etc, baker [___ 3 acres of land interlined], Roger until etc. May ___, John Carter, Adam Pykeman. John Hallungburi Also that [John deleted] 222 Christopher Phillpotts

[Edward interlined] de Hallingbury, who held William brother ___ to be admitted etc, and he from the lord 1 messuage, 18 acres of land was admitted etc. And as fine for entry ___. and 2 acres of meadow with appurtenances in ____ cottage with appurtenances in Stepney Stepney, died, and nothing comes as a heriot ____ to fine etc, and he was admitted etc __ because he had no animal. And that Cecilia de ____ of land and half a cottage ___ of John Hallingbury, daughter of Joan, sister of Edward Kanfeld, brother of this Philip ____ to be de Hal____ [of this John deleted] is the nearest admitted etc, and they were admitted etc and heir etc, who did not come etc. Therefore it is ___ as fine 3s 4d. And they did fealty. ordered ____ issues etc, until etc. Also that Thomas Bryd, who held from the Ralph atte Hull, William atte Hull Also that Ralph lord 4 acres of land in Stepney, died. And that atte Hull and William atte Hull, who held his son John is the nearest heir, who came and ____ appurtenances in Stepney, died etc, and sought to be admitted etc, and he was admitted that their brother Laurence ____ come etc. etc. And he gave the lord as a fine to have entry Therefore it is ordered to retain etc, and he 13s 4d. And he did fealty. should respond for the issues etc, until etc. Also that John Pantheg, who held from the Richard Denys Also that Richard Denys, who lord 1 acre 3 rods of land with appurtenances held from the lord 1 cottage and 7 acres of in Stepney, died. And that his sister Felicia is customary land with appurtenances in Stepney, the nearest heir, who came and sought to be died etc, after whose death it is ordered ___ admitted etc and she was admitted etc. And she heriot etc. And the jurors say that Thomas son gave the lord as a fine to have entry 5s. And she of Alice, sister of this Richard, aged 6 years, is did fealty. the nearest heir etc, who did not come to fine Also that Juliana Prichet, who held from the lord etc. Therefore it is ordered to retain in the 1 acre of land with appurtenances in Stepney, lord’s hands etc, and he should respond for the died ____ Prichet, brother of this Juliana, is issues etc, until etc… the nearest heir, who came and sought to be admitted ___ etc. And he gave the lord as a fine m23 Stebbenhuth: Court held there Thursday before to have entry 3s 4d. And ___ the feast of St Peter ad Vincula 23 Edward III [30 July 1349] m23d It was found by enquiry held by virtue of his Roger Maysey, John Sweting, William Jordan, John office, taken by the oaths of Salomon atte Ganneburi, Thomas ate Wall, John Getton tailor, Walteye, Walter Fisch, Richard ___, Thomas Robert Pikeman, John Hasele It is ordered to retain Fisch, Alan Sweting, Robert Brounyng, Adam in the lord’s hands ½ acre of land in Stepney atte Grene, William ___, Adam Oldelond, which belonged to Roger Maysey. Also 3 rods William Bat, William son of Salomon Swetinge of land in Stepney which belonged to John and Robert ___ that Alice Perer, who held Sweting. Also 1½ acres of land in Stepney and ½ from the lord 1 cottage with appurtenances in cottage which belonged to William Jordan. Also Algatstret, has died, and that John Hened son 2 cottages and 6 acres of land in Stepney which of John Hened brother of Roger Hened ___ belonged to John Ganneburi [enquiry about Alice is the nearest heir. Who came and was heirs appears on Roll 14 year 24 interlined]. Also admitted as tenant. And he gave as a fine 3s 4d 2½ rods of land in Stepney which belonged and he did fealty. to Thomas atte Walle. Also 1 acre of land in Also that Thomas de Reygate, who held from Stepney which belonged to John Getton tailor. the lord 1 cottage and 4 acres of land with Also 3 rods of land in Stepney which belonged appurtenances in Stepney, died, and that to John Morice. Also 1 messuage and 1 garden Adam, William and Clement, sons of Sulore which belonged to Robert Pikeman in Stepney. sister of this Thomas, are the nearest heirs etc, Also 1 rod of land in Stepney which belonged who came and were admitted as tenants and to John Hasele ___ etc until heirs are presented did fealty. And they gave as a fine 16s. etc. Also that John son of Laurence Reymond senior, It should be inquired at the next court [by ___ who held from the lord 1 acre of land and half of Stepney interlined] what lands and tenements a cottage with appurtenances in Stepney, died. Robert Saburgh and Marg___ from the lord on And that his brother William is the nearest the days on which they died etc, about heriots heir, who came and sought to be admitted ___ etc, and who should be the heir ___ etc. And he gave as a fine to have entry 3s 4d. It is ordered to retain in the lord’s hands all the And he did fealty. lands and tenements with ___ Reyson and the ____ Reymond junior, who held from the lord others whose names appear in Roll 21 and in 3 3 rods of land and half a ___ there comes to schedules ___ until etc. the lord as a heriot 1 cow worth 40d. And that [pleas etc; largely illegible]… The Black Death in the London Area: Documentary Evidence from Stepney and Vauxhall Manors 223 m24 still Court held at Stebbenhuth Thursday Hulle, and Nicholas son of John atte Hulle, the before the feast of St Peter ad Vincula 23 Edward other uncle of this Matilda, and her nearest heirs, III [30 July 1349] to have entry into 1½ acres of land in Hackney after the death of this Matilda, as appears in Roll ENQUIRY OF HAKENEY 13 at the end, 4s. And they did fealty. From the same ___ and Nicholas to have entry William Pedder It was found by enquiry held by into 1½ acres of land a 1 toft with appurtenances virtue of his office, taken by the oaths of Robert in Hackney after the death of Sabina atte Hulle, Sannford, John Hereward, John Pedder, John as appears in Roll 13, 4s. And they did fealty. atte Hoke, John atte Hulle, John Beneyt, John Nicholas son of John atte Hulle, brother of Churgys, John Adam, John Levy__, John Carter, Richard atte Hull deceased and heir ___ 1 Roger Chapman and Robert Reve. That William acre of land and a sixth part of a cottage with Pedder, who held from the lord 1 cottage and appurtenances in [Stepney deleted] Hackney 2 dayworks of land in Hackney, died, and there ____ in Roll 13, 40d. And he did fealty… came as a heriot 1 bullock worth 18d, and that his son John is the nearest heir etc, who came m24d and was admitted, and he gave the lord as a fine 8d and he did fealty. [surrenders]… And that John Pod, who held from the lord 8 acres of land and half a cottage with m25 Stebbenhuth: Court held there Monday before appurtenances in ___ died etc, and there came the feast of St Michael 23 Edward III [28 September as a heriot 1 bay horse worth 2 marks, and that 1349] his sons John and William ___ the nearest heirs. John Hened freeman surrenders into the lord’s Who did not come etc. Therefore it is ordered hands 1 cottage with appurtenances in Stepney to be retained etc. at Algatstret …. Which cottage came to him by __ William Waryn, who held from the lord 1 inheritance after the death of Alice Perer … cottage and 2 acres of land in Hackney, died etc, By enquiry held by virtue of his office, taken by and ___ are the heirs. It is ordered to enquire the oaths of William Swetinge, Richard Sonder, etc, and meanwhile it is ordered to retain etc, Salomon atte Waltey, ___ceys, William Swetinge and he should respond for the issues etc. [son of Salomon Swetinge interlined], William ___ John Prichet who held from the lord 1 acre Bat, Thomas Mayster, John Oldelond, Adam __ of land and half a cottage worth appurtenances _, Roger le Hore, Adam Oldelond and William in ___ died, and there come to the lord as a atte Flete, that Salomon Skrey ___ from the heriot 1 cow worth 5s, and that his daughter lord 1 acre 1 rod of land with appurtenances Alice is the nearest heir. Who came and was in Stepney, died. And that John ___ Prat junior, admitted etc, and she gave the lord as a fine 2s sons of Matilda sister of this Salomon, are his and she did fealty. nearest heirs ___ came and they were admitted, Also that Richard Geffrey, who held from and they gave the lord as a fine to have entry 4s, the lord 1 acre of land with apurtenances in and they did fealty. Hackney, and that his sons Ralph and Ralph are [surrenders by the Prats]… his nearest heirs. Who came and were admitted ___ as a fine after the death of H___ of this and they gave as a fine 2s and they did fealty. Hugh, as appears ____... Also that William Levys, who William Levys ___ as a fine to have entry into 2 acre ___ of held from the lord 1 messuage and 6 acres this Robert, as appears in Roll 15, 10s, and he of customary land with appurtenances in did fealty. Hackney, died, and there comes as a heriot 1 ___ey as appears in Roll 15, as fine to have entry horse worth 2s, and that John [___ of his sister into 1 acre of meadow in Stepney after the ] and Roger, the sons of Alice [the interlined death of this Thomas, 5s, and he did fealty… other ] sister of this William, are his interlined [above jury find that] ____ land with nearest heirs, who did not come etc. Therefore appurtenances in Stepney, died ____ came and it was ordered to retain etc, and he should was admitted and gave as a fine 9s. respond for the issues etc. _____keman, who held from the lord 3½ acres m25d still the same court of land a half a cottage with ___, John Churgys son of Matilda Coleman, John and John ___ of It was found by enquiry held by virtue of his this William are his nearest heirs etc, who came office that Alice Fankerd, who held from ____ and they did fealty. the lord 1 cottage and 1½ acres of land with ___ William Terry __ as appears ___... appurtenances in Stepney, died, and that John _____ after the death of this Ma____... ___, son of John brother of this Alice, is the From ___ atte Hulle junior, uncle of Matilda atte nearest heir, who came and was admitted ___ 224 Christopher Phillpotts gave the lord as a fine 7s by pledges of Hugh Wrighte deleted], John Bat as appears in Roll Lankyn and Nicholas Ford___. 12, ___ Thomas Veyron, Joan Bene, [Ralph From ___ and heir of Hugh Henedman as a Giseburgh deleted], [Richard Alisaundre, fine to have entry into 1 ___ acres of land after Richard Walle deleted], William Hawelot, Joan the death of this Hugh, as appears in Roll 23, Jurdon, Joan atte Walteye, John Sweting, 3s ___ [Thomas le Hore deleted], [Roger Lyenge It was found by enquiry taken by virtue of his deleted] [see Roll 14 year 24 interlined], John office by jurors of Hackney that ___ from the lord Golding, Roger atte Walle, Alice Oldelond, 1 cottage 1½ acres of land with appurtenances Lettice Sander, Agnes atte Walle, [Salamon atte in Hackney etc ___ are his nearest heirs, who Walle deleted], Salomon Bat, John Hartel, John came and were admitted ___ atte March, Matilda Sander, Henry Dene, John Also that Roger Grey, who held from the lord Reymund, [Bartholomew Bernard deleted], ___ Isack his sons are his heirs, who came and John Gilour, John Broun senior and William were admitted ___ Erl as appears in Roll 15, ____, Mariona Broun Also that John Grey ____ brother ___ who came [escheat interlined], Walter Auncel [Thomas ___ Underwode deleted], Ale___, [___ Salkyn Also that William ___ le, who held from the deleted], ____, Roger Fromond, ______ater, lord 1 ___ in Hackney, died, by whose death Edward Cable, ____ [William Mackine deleted], there comes to the lord as a heriot 1 mare ______, ___ Sonder, John ___, ____ John God___, _ son of Ralph, one of the sons of this William, ____ Richard Golding, William M____, Thomas and Sarra daughter of Richard, the other son Figgs, Richard Ponde, John Broun, [John ___ of this William and ___ of William, the third _, William R__e, Walter Sal___, W__ de Rev son of this William, are his nearest heirs etc. deleted] ___ [Andrew Pond, William atte Walle Who came and were admitted ___ they gave the deleted], ___ Eliot, John ___, ____ Salomon ___, lord as a fee 7s and did fealty. Roger Okew___, as appears in Roll 19, John William Heyron Also that William Heyron, who son of William atte Walteye, ___ Roger Chaker, held from the lord ___ died, and that his son Richard Finkes, _____ John is his heir, who did not come to fine ____ John Heyron Also that John Heyron, who held m26d still the same court from ____ died, and that his son John is his heir etc ____ Still it is ordered to retain in the lord’s hands 1 ___ Coleman Also that Thomas Coleman _____ daywork of land with appurtenances in Stepney that Viellus brother____ which belonged to Roger atte Walle, lately John Prat _____ and the lord reconceded ___ deceased, and he should respond to the lord after death of this John ____ Alice daughter of for the issues until the heir is presented, as fully this ____ according to the custom of the manor appears in Roll 9 year 22. ____ [other surrenders]… HAKENEYE m26 still the Court held there Monday before the Ordered to retain in the lord’s hands ____ feast of St Michael 23 Edward III [28 September Pymme, Thomas ___, Robert Artour, ___ Alice 1349] Long ____ John Swet___ [mostly illegible]… STEBBENHUTH: tenements in the lord’s hands

Still it is ordered to retain in the lord’s hands, TNA: PRO, SC2/205/12, COURT ROLL saving the right of each, all the lands and OF VAUXHALL MANOR, ETC 14—23 tenements which John Dylchep as appears in EDWARD III [1340-50] Roll 1, John Doylan, [James Mauntel deleted] [fine 4s interlined] as appears in Roll 6, Cristina [11 membranes, partly wrinkled, faded and atte Noke, Agnes atte Walle, William Pulter, washed-out] [Alice sister of John Curteys deleted], Joan Wrighte, William Jurdan as appears in Roll 7 m9d Faukeshalle: Court held there Wednesday at the beginning of the roll, James atte Dour, after feast of Nativity of the Lord 22 Edward III [31 Alice his wife, John Skek, Cecilia Wrighte, December 1348] [Nicholas Carter deleted], Henry atte Roche, Roger Reyson, John Dene, Richard Umfrey, It was found by enquiry taken by virtue of his [William Spileman, Hugh Baroun deleted], office, ie by the oaths of Thomas atte Melle, Thomas Brounyng, Margery Godyng, Robert Nicholas atte Cruche, Walter Heyfeld, William Smyth, [John Brouning smith, Salomon Bernard, William Saleman, Walter Swyft, The Black Death in the London Area: Documentary Evidence from Stepney and Vauxhall Manors 225

Richard Gray, Thomas Sydher, John atte More ___ And he gave the lord as relief 2d. And he junior, Hugh ___, John atte More senior and did fealty by pledges for relief Henry ___ and William Martyn that Sarra Hunderhulle is dead ___ Martyn… and held from the lord 1 heriotable messuage, after whose death there comes to the lord as a Faukeshalle: Court held there Wednesday after heriot 1 cow worth 5s. And they say that William feast of St Scolastica the Virgin 23 Edward III [11 Bernard is the next heir, who came and was February 1349] admitted. And he did fealty. And they say he owes nothing for relief. Nicholas de Sekynton came to this court and It was found by the same enquiry that Alan sought to be admitted as tenant to 1 messuage Hamery is dead, who held from the lord 1 and 6½ acres of land and ½ acre of meadow messuage, 3 acres of land and 1 rod of meadow with appurtenances in Mitcham, which were heriotable, after whose death there comes to taken into the lord’s hands after the death of the lord as heriot 1 cow with calf worth 10s, John de Sekynton his brother, of whom he is and that his son Robert Hamery is his next heir, the heir. And because it was found by the oaths who came and was admitted as tenant. And he of Nicholas atte Cruche, Walter Swyft, Thomas did fealty. And he gave the lord as relief 12d. atte ___, Hugh Schot, Henry Brangweyn, Also it was found by the same enquiry that Richard Brangweyn, Richard Gray, Richard atte John Sekenton is dead, who held from the lord Cruche, Hugh atte Cruche, William atte Hache, 1 messuage and 6[½ interlined] acres of land Thomas Sydher and John atte Wode that this [and ½ acre of meadow interlined] in Mitcham Nicholas de Sekyngton is the brother and next heriotable, after whose death there comes to the heir of this John de Sekyngton, this Nicholas was lord as a heriot 8d because he had no animal by admitted as tenant to this messuage, 6½ acres the custom of manor because he paid the lord of land and ½ acre of meadow. And Nicholas rent annually. And they do not know who the gave the lord as relief 8d by the pledges of next heir is, therefore it is ordered to seize this Nicholas atte Cruche and Richard Gray. And messuage and 6 acres of land into the lord’s he did fealty… hands, saving the right of each etc, until etc. It was found by enquiry taken by virtue of his And it was found by the same enquiry that office, ie by the oaths of Nicholas atte Cruche Angnes Steres is dead, who held from the and others whose names are inserted below, lord ½ acre of land and that Walter Heyford is that John Martyn is dead, who held from the the next heir, who came and was admitted as lord 1 messuage and 7 acres of land, after whose tenant, and he gave the lord as relief 1½d. And death there comes to the lord as a heriot a red he did fealty… ox worth 13s 4d. And that Thomas Martyn his brother is his nearest heir, who came and was Faukeshalle: Court held there Wednesday after the admitted as tenant. And he did fealty. And he feast of St Fabian 22 Edward III [21 January 1349] gave the lord as a relief 2s 6d by the pledges of Nicholas atte Cruche and Henry Cook. m10 [partly illegible]… Also it was found by the same enquiry that Walter Martyn is dead, who held from the lord It was found by enquiry taken by virtue of his 1 cottage and 2½ acres of land, after whose office, ie by the oaths of Nicholas att Cruche, death there comes to the lord as a heriot 1 red Thomas atte ___, ___ atte Hache, ____ weyn, cow worth 8s. And they say that John Martyn, John atte More senior, Thomas Sydhep___, son of this Walter Martyn, is his nearest heir ___ Walter ___, ____ Richard atte Cruche and to this cottage and ½ acre of land because it is Walter Geddy who say by their oaths that Robert customary land and this John is his youngest Hamery is dead, who held from the lord 1 son. And he came and was admitted as tenant. messuage and 3 acres of land, after whose death And he did fealty. And he gave the lord as a there comes to the lord as heriot 13d from each relief 3d. And they say that Nicholas son of ___ because he had no living animal, ie in as this Walter is his nearest heir to 2 acres of much as he paid rent ___. And that Angnes land because it is free land and this Nicholas Hamery, aunt of this Robert, is his next heir, is the elder son, which Nicholas came and was who came and was admitted as tenant. And she admitted as tenant. And he did fealty and gave gave the lord as relief 12d. And she did fealty the lord as a relief 6d by the pledges of Nicholas by the pledges of Walter Bakere and Nicholas atte Cruche and Henry Brangweyn. atte Cruche. And it was found by the same enquiry that John And it was found by the same enquiry that atte Crofte is dead, who held 1 cottage and 3 Matilda Martyn is dead, who held from the lord rods of land, after whose death there comes ½ acre of land by the service of 8d. And that to the lord as a heriot 3d, ie as much as the Nicholas Martyn is the next heir, who came and rent for it. And his son ___ is his heir to this 226 Christopher Phillpotts cottage and 3 rods, who came and was admitted this Isabell came and sought to be admitted as as tenant. And he did fealty. And he gave the tenant to ½ messuage and 3 rods of land. And lord as a relief 3d by pledge of Nicholas atte she was admitted and did fealty. And she gave Cruche. the lord as a relief ½d. And this Matilda did Also it was found by the same enquiry that John not come, therefore it is ordered to seize half of atte Croft is dead, who held from the lord 1 this messuage and 3 rods of land until etc. And messuage and 2 acres 1 rod of land and 2 parts to render the issues from it to the lord etc. of 1 rod of meadow, after whose death there It was found by the same enquiry that Isabell comes to the lord as a heriot 1 red cow worth Saleman is dead, who held from the lord 1 8s. And that William his son is his nearest heir messuage and ½ acre of land in Mitcham, after ____. And he did fealty. And he gave the lord as the death of whom nothing comes to the lord a relief 7d by pledge of Nicholas Martyn. as a heriot ___. And that William Saleman It was found by the same enquiry that Juliana her brother is her nearest heir, who came Aleman is dead, who held ____ and 1 toft and and sought to be admitted as tenant. He was 40 acres of heriotable land. And they say that admitted. And he did fealty. And he gave the nothing comes to the lord as a heriot because lord as a relief 3d by pledges ___. she had no animal living. And they say that her And it was found by the same enquiry that daughter Margery is her nearest heir but she John Ced__re is dead, who held from the lord did not come, therefore it is ordered to seize 1 messuage with a curtilage, but they say that ____. nothing comes to the lord as a heriot because he It was found by the same enquiry that Walter had no animal. And that his son William is his Pr__ is dead, who held from the lord 1 messuage nearest heir, but he did not come. Therefore it and 1½ acres of heriotable land, but they say is ordered to seize this messuage and curtilage that nothing comes to the lord as a heriot until etc. And to render the issues from it to because he had no animal ___. Isabell and the lord etc… Matilda his sisters are his nearest heirs. And

APPENDIX: THE APPROXIMATE SEQUENCE OF DEATHS IN STEPNEY MANOR 1348/9 From TNA: PRO, SC2/191/60. Names in italics are obtained from the lists of tenements retained in the lord’s hands rather than entries in the individual courts, but the repeated sequences of names in the same order make it likely that they have been assigned to the correct place in the correct court, where they would be if the document was undamaged. [___] indicates a single entry where the name cannot be read, but which clearly records a death.

By 30 October 1348 John Doylonn John Rolf John Haldon [in 1346/7] James Mannet/Mauncel Ralph Rolf Robert Lightfot Robert Wallere John Alvard ___ Sackyon Cristina atte Nok John Bischop John Dylchep Agnes atte Walle John Bischop William le Pulter Peter Bischop By 9 December 1348 Alice Curtis William Fynkete Sarra Pymme John Stroud Alice Pymme Thomas Pymme Joan Wrighte Alice Hereward Richard Pymme Walter le Helder William Baron Alice Sannford William Jordan Alice Adam Elen Fremans Alice Brid Alice Coleman John Oldelond Robert Beneit John Terri Robert Sturgys junior William Churgys senior By 20 January 1349 John le Rede Thomas Adam John de Croyndon Robert Artour Robert Ponde [___] Alice Baroun Margery Haldon William Sonkete [____] Henry Coleman Roger Sherne John Coleman junior Roger atte Walle By 10 February 1349 Gonnild Smythes Alice atte Grene John Saleman smith Roger Pymme The Black Death in the London Area: Documentary Evidence from Stepney and Vauxhall Manors 227

John Aston junior Alice Long Salamon Bat William de Correr William Ralf John Hartil John Jurden William Prichet John atte March William Freman Alice Prichet Matilda Sander Nicholas L___ Robert Sannford junior Henry Dene ___ __man junior Alice Hemmyng John Reymund William Terry Margery Kynges Bartholomew Bernard Robert Coleman Richard Chapman John Gilour Alice Dunmawes [of Homerton] John Broun senior Alice Terry Elena Pentecost William le Erl William Litel John John Pentecost Edith Godings William Chapman junior Sarra Pentecost Cristina atte Watere ___ Freman Adam Goderey John Morice Nicholas le Rede John Waryn Richard Hervy William ___ Richard Adgoz Edmund Role John Veyre [Etgose of Limehouse?] Sarra atte Marke John Audren By 21 April 1349 Margery atte Gate John Fayre Roger Fysch James atte Dour ___ Cobenhagre Robert House Alice atte Dour Alice Adgoz Henry Bene John Skeke Richard ___ Cecilia Wright John Alvard By 22 April 1349 Nicholas le Carter John ____ [Sir] John de Pulteneye Henry atte Roche John le Veer Richard Rolf Alice atte Roche Alice Pierys William Saleman Roger Reyson [____] Richard Roberd John Dene John Walle Richard Levis Richard Umfrey ___ Croft William Levis William Spileman John Brid Robert Terri Hugh Baron Richard Brid William Hemmyngs Margaret Goding ___ Curteys Alice Hemyngs Robert Smith Agnes Saykin John Hemyngs John Brouning smith Agnes Artour Robert Hemyngs Hugh Barcan Richard Canstere John atte Grene Thomas Brouning Richard Gille Richard Chapman Salamon Wright Richard de Ludgate Adam le Gal John Bat Adam Spenythorn Laurence Brounings William Warde John Reysoun By 19 March 1349 John Smyth John Reymund junior John son of William de Thomas Veyroun John Stillego Huntingdon John Bene John Broun Edmund Cobbe Alexander Cobbe Marion Broun John Andreu Robert Swetinge [____] William atte Grove Ralph Gilsburgh Walter Auncel John le Rodde [of Clapton] Richard Alisaundre Hugh Gamen Alice Pymme Richard Walle John Reymund senior Matilda atte Hull Joan Hawley/Hawelot John Gravele Sabina atte Hulle Joan Jurdon Alexander Mareschal Richard atte Hull Joan atte Walteye Simon Cartere Richard Pymme John Sweting Thomas Underwode Batholomew Pod Thomas David (or Randy) Alan atte Watere __ ___elynne Thomas le Hore Richard Godings Walter Pod Roger Lyenge Joan Golding Thomas Pod John Goldinge Salomon Oldelond William Wat___ Roger atte Walle John Frost Robert Pod Alice Oldelond [___] Richard atte Marke Lettice Sander [___] Richard Long Agnes atte Walle [___] William Waryn Salamon atte Walle ____ atte Gate 228 Christopher Phillpotts

Walter Borgeys Thomas Figgs Philip Kanfeld [___] Richard Ponde Thomas Bryd Simon atte Walle Joan ___ John Pantheg Roger Fromond [___] Juliana Prichet Richard Olivier Walter Sal___ Roger Maysey Nicholas le Helder John Broun John Sweting Andrew atte Gate W de Rev__ William Jordan Edward Cobbe Andrew Pond John Ganneburi Walter Cobbe William atte Walle Thomas atte Walle Roger Gardeneys Salomon Skeke John Getton Salomon Sweting William ___ John Morice ____ Oldelond ____ Eliot Robert Pikeman [___] John ___ John Hasele ____ Cribbs Roger Okewod Robert Saburgh William atte Hole [___] Margaret Saburgh [___] [of Poplar] ___ Walteye William Pedder Alice Puurtes [___] John Pod John Hervey Roger Chaker William Waryn ___ Walteye Richard Finkes John Prichet Hugh Ost Walter Swetinge Richard Geffrey Thomas Sw___ William Levys By 6 July 1349 Matilda ___ William Pikeman Robert Geffrey William de ___ William Terry Walter atte Gate Richard Pogges Ma____ Nicholas Oldelond R______John Sonders Agnes Sweting By 28 September 1349 John atte ___ Edward de Hallingbury Salomon Skrey Edward Cable Ralph atte Hull [___] William Mackine William atte Hull Alice Fankard Henry Sonder Richard Denys Hugh Henedman Roger Gamen [___] John Godlok By 30 July 1349 Roger Grey Roger Goye__ Alice Perer [of Aldgate Street] John Grey [___] Thomas de Reygate William ___le Richard Golding John Reymond William Heyron Walter Mora-r Laurence Reymond John Heyron Roger Wrighte [___] Thomas Coleman

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS BIBLIOGRAPHY My thanks are due to the National Archives for McDonnell, K, 1978 Medieval London Suburbs, permission to publish the translated extracts London & Chichester from the court rolls above, and to Barney Ross, K N, 1947 A History of Malden, New Sloane for his comments and encouragement. Malden Any errors in the translation and interpretation Sloane, B, 2011 The Black Death in London, of the documents are entirely my own. Stroud Smith, H L, 1939 The History of East London, London MANUSCRIPT SOURCES Survey of London 8 (ed) J Bird (1922), London MCO Merton College, Oxford, manuscripts Victoria County History: Middlesex 2 (ed) W Page TNA The National Archives (1911); 11 (ed) T F T Baker (1998), Oxford WC Winchester College, Winchester, Victoria County History: Surrey 4 (ed) H E Malden manuscripts (1912), Westminster