PLYMOUTH
DATA

The Encyclopaedia of Plymouth History


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CHARTER OF INCORPORATION

In 1439 a petition to King Henry VI set forth the grievances of the townspeople and requested the amalgamation of the manors of Sutton Prior, Sutton Vautort and Sutton Raf and freedom from the Prior of Plympton.

The King granted this request by Royal Licence and on November 12th 1439 it was confirmed by Act of Parliament. The Priors made over the rights to hold markets and fairs in 1440 on payment of a yearly sum of £41, a rent finally discharged in 1545.

On July 25th 1440, the King granted the first Charter.  Kingston-upon-Hull was the first town in England but their charter was granted by an act of Royal grace. Plymouth's was the first to be granted by Act of Parliament, making it the second municpal borough to be created in England.

Mayor's were elected every St Lambert's Day (September 17th) and appointed on the Feast of St Michael following (September 29th).

 

Copyright:   Brian Moseley, Plymouth, UK

Page updated: 29 November 2002

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