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Assize files, 1641 - 1649

 Sub-sub-series
Reference Code: GBR/0012/MS EDR/E/12

Scope and Contents

From the Sub-Series:

The assize files typically consist of a mixture of the following record types: examinations; depositions; recognizances; indictments; coroners' inquests; list of court officials; gaol calendars; related court papers. Some bundles have been labelled by regnal year or document type but, generally, the contents are in some disorder and have not yet been examined in detail due to their physical condition.

Dates

  • Creation: 1641 - 1649

Conditions Governing Access

Very fragile material - access to some material may only be possible with support from specialist conservation staff. Please seek guidance.

Extent

2 archive box(es)

Language of Materials

English

English

English

Latin

Arrangement

The full covering dates are 1641-1653, but the bulk of the material relates to the assizes of 1642-9. The bundles and files have been catalogued as found at the time of cataloguing. The original file/bundle titles identified by Dorothy Owen, former Ely Diocesan Archivist, have been retained. No attempt has been made to rearrange any material.

Related Materials

The depositions relating to allegations of witchcraft have been extensively studied. For general reference, see Malcolm Gaskill, 'Witchfinders: a seventeenth-century English tragedy' (London, 2005) and 'Crime and mentalities in early modern England' (Cambridge, 2000), and Enid Porter, 'Cambridgeshire customs and folklore' (London, 1969).

Repository Details

Part of the Cambridge University Library Repository

Contact:
Cambridge University Library
West Road
Cambridge CB3 9DR United Kingdom