News

# Experts sought for The Manorial and Tithe Documents Panel

New members are being sought for a panel which advises The Master of the Rolls
on historical documents related to the manorial system and tithes.

Published 6 August 2025

Manorial documents relate to a type of land ownership known as copyhold,
abolished in 1922. Tithing was the practice of giving one tenth of all
agricultural produce annually to support the local church and clergy. After the
Reformation much land passed from the Church to lay owners who inherited
entitlement to receive tithes.

Records created as a result of these systems are invaluable for people
researching their ancestors, maps or land ownership. Some are held by The
National Archives, some by county record offices and some are in private hands.

The Master of the Rolls, Sir Geoffrey Vos, is seeking experts to act as advisers
on the Manorial and Tithe Documents panel, which meets twice a year and also
considers queries via email. Part of the role involves sharing information about
good practice with university history departments, local history groups and
county record societies.

Three posts are being advertised. One is a three-year appointment and the others
two-year posts. Expenses will be covered. The deadline for applications is 1700
on Friday, 25 April 2025. Completed applications with a CV and supporting
statement should be emailed to
[advisorycouncilsecretary@nationalarchives.gov.uk](mailto:advisorycouncilsecretary@nationalarchives.gov.uk).

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