Estate account, 1495
| Extract from the receiver's account for the manor of Berdesfeld
(Bardfield), in Essex, detailing fees for the bailiff and parkers.
The independence of Cecily's estates was confirmed by her son Edward
IV when he became king in 1461. The account shows that John Benlase,
whose wages are recorded in this entry, was still serving as the duchess's
bailiff in 1495 - more than 30 years after his original appointment.
Although not unusual, such a long term of service suggests that Cecily
generated considerable loyalty among her followers and those who worked
on her estates. Catalogue reference: SC 6/HENVII/1448, m. 6 (1495) |
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