The Forde Cartulary

THE WEB FRESHFORD SITE

There are number of references to Charmouth in the Cartulary preserved at Forde Abbey. The famous Archivist, Steven Hobbs has translated these and are shown below: CHARMOUTH (Charnemouth) (and GROVE from f 9v) 1290x1297

Grant by brother William, abbot of Forde, desiring to improve the manor of Charmouth (Cernemue), that the vill of Charmouth shall be a free borough within the following bounds: on the east side of the vill all that place called Sevenaker by the water below the road from Charrereystone up to the road between Charmouth and Bridport, then along the watercourse which runs to the monks' mill; from there along the course of the river to the sea and to the chapel of the vill; thence along the road ascending to le pillory and then to the cross which stands on the road to Lyme above Radehorne; on the west side of the vill as far as le Sheote by the corner along the ditch to the bank adjoining Sevenaker on the north side.

Grant to those wishing to build within these bounds plots measuring 4 per­ches by 20 perches, by the view of the monks' bailiff, rendering 6d a year for each burgage in equal portions at Michaelmas and Easter. Holders of burgages present and future will have the freedom of residing there, returning with their chattels or of returning the licence and their houses, as well as giving, assigning, bequeathing or mortgaging them to whomever they wish except religious, Jews or ecclesiastics without their licence, together with the power to transfer these into which ever use it pleases them, saving only for the monks' compensation in all things.

They will owe suit to the monks' court twice a year on the Tuesday following Hockday and on the Tuesday following Michaelmas in the guildhall (gyhalda) of Charmouth and not at other times unless an unforeseen event occurs and they make a reasonable excuse or unless they are at sea or in very remote parts; and that they might enjoy the liberties everywhere such as the monks are able to give justly and guarantee properly. The burgesses owe suit to the monks' mill at Charmouth and will have priority at the mill (stemphri) after the corn of the miller. If any harmful dispute arises within the bounds of any of their messuages the litigants will have free power to settle between them­selves; the monks will have no claim to customary due or compensation, saving in all things royal jurisdiction and privilege. None of the monks will have the power to distrain unless in default of the bailiff of the burgesses; saving for the monks and their successors amercements and rents from each burgage collected from the vill by the said bailiff. It is forbidden for anyone to sell untreated animal skins in the vill unless he is of the rank and authority (lima et lagha) of a burgess.

Grant also that every burgess may keep a draught animal in the common pasture, namely from the road adjoining the moor of Geoffrey Heron (Heyrun) extending west to the land of Stephen Pain (Payn) and along the bounds of Stephen's land as far as the ditch on the land formerly of Robert Russell (Rosel) and from this ditch up to Langmoresgeth and then along to la Strippam adjoining the land of Geoffrey Heron (Heyron) and finally along the bounds of the land of Stephen Pain (Payn) to the said road, paying each year on the eve of Michaelmas Id for each head in the guildhall to the monks and their successors for ever. The monks may distrain for amercements and arrears of rents and take and keep goods and chattels until the arrears have been settled.

Witnesses: Robert de Wootton (Wadton), Walter de Luveney (Loweyngay), William de la Berne, Richard Gardener (de Gardino), [blank] de Cotley (Cutehegh).

The internal details, supported by the palaeographical evidence of the original (Devon Record Office ED/M/300) and deeds 44-6 in the cartulary suggest the date (and not 1320 as in Hutchins, Hist. Dorset ii. 223). The original charter was witnessed also by Robert de Cotley, Stephen de Hogchester (Hoggeshurste) and Walter Welsh (le Walays).

2 1236 x1250
Grant in free alms by Adam Heron (Heyrun) for the salvation of the soul of his wife Maud to the a. and c. of Forde of Charmouth (Cernemue). Rent 1 mark on the feast of St John the Baptist at Stoke sub Hamdon (Stokes) to Robert de Beauchamp and appropriate aid for the knighting of his first-born son, for the marriage of his first-born daughter and the redemption of their bodies from prison, as is due from a knight's fee in the fee of Mortain.

Witnesses: Sir Robert de Beauchamp, Jordan Oliver, Benedict de Beere (Bera), John, parson of Cruk', Roger de Cotley (Cotteleg), Richard de Cantelo (Cantelou), Ralph de Uppehegh (Upheg'), Peter Blunt (Blundus), John de Hogchester (Hoggeshurst), Henry Goldsmith (Aurifaber).

Adam Heron held a knight's fee in Charmouth in 1236: Som. Record Soc. xxxv. 1.

3 1172x1205
Grant in free alms by William Heron (Hayrun) to the a. and c. of Forde of all that part of his tenement in Charmouth (Cernemue) which lies to the west of the land of Henry de Tilli between the top of the brow of the cliff and the sea as far as the stream of Cerne and to the south of the curtilage formerly of Elfric up to the sea, for making salt, keeping a boat or other purposes.

Grant also of the right for the monks to transport whatever they need by land or sea freely within the manor [of Charmouth]. If he suffers any loss in corn, pasture or wood William will receive compensation assessed by four law worthy men, two representing the monks and two himself. Grant also of 1/2 acre of meadow in the manor. Rent 12d at Michaelmas. Consideration 20s.

Witnesses: Jordan, priest of Charmouth (Cernem'), Henry de Tracy, Henry de Leigh (Leg'), Robert Heron (Hairun), Gervase de Leigh (Leg'), Nicholas de Whatley (Hwatell), Nigel de Horn Ash (la Horna), Richard de Beemor (Beimore), William Welsh (Wallensi), William Straaga, Walter de Montacute (Monte Acuto), Henry Heron (Hairun), Theodoric Haranc, William son of Reynold, John Russell (Rusllo').

Henry de Tilli held the barony of Marshwood 1172-1205: 1.3. Sanders, English Baronies, 64.

4 mid 13th cent.
Grant by Geoffrey Heron (Hairun) to the a. and c. of Forde of 1 acre of land called la Setlaunde which lies in Lynlegh to the west of and below the highway which leads to the monks' grange. Consideration 8s.

Witnesses: William de la Beere, Stephen Pain (Payn'), Peter de Westover (Westovere), Robert de Lewcombe (Loucumbe), William Butcher (le Macecrer) of Lyme (Lym).

5 mid 13th cent.
Grant in free alms by Geoffrey le Heron (Heyrun) with the consent of Alice his wife to the a. and c. of Forde of 1/2 acre of meadow in la Brodemead within the free manor of Charmouth (Cernemue). Quitclaim by Geoffrey of all commons of pasture in Brodemead pertaining to the said 1/2 acre or any other tenement in the said manor.

Witnesses: Adam de Wootton (Wudeton'), Stephen de Walls, Geoffrey le Debonare, Stephen de Hogchester (Hoggeshurste), Luke de Bridge (Ponte), Henry de Hawkwell (Hakwell), William Hosteler (Hostillarius).

6 mid 13th cent.
Grant by Geoffrey le Heron (Heirun) to the a. and c. of Forde of a piece of land within the manor of Charmouth (Cernemue) which lies between his land and the curtilage of the monks' shepherd, measuring 2 perches in width and extending from the highway to the monks' wood. They may enclose it and maintain it as they wish. Consideration 3s.

Witnesses: John de Uppehegh (Huppehegh), Richard de Leigh (Legh), Luke de Bridge (Ponte), Henry de Hawkwell (Hakwell), Stephen Pain (Payn'), Geoffrey le Debonare (Debonere), Robert de Lewcombe (Leucumb).

7 20 March 1257

Agreement made on the feast of St Cuthbert 1257 between Geoffrey Heron (Heirun) and the a. and c. of Forde: Geoffrey has quitclaimed a croft called Hereburghcroft' which lies on the north side of the monks' wood within the manor of Charmouth (Cernemue) together with the pasture which lies below the road leading to the township of Charmouth up to the land of Stephen Pain (Payn'); reserving for Geoffrey and his heirs his arable land within the said meadow, which is to be enclosed by a hedge or ditch, and the right to cut gorse on his moor and land. If the monks' animals enter this arable land in default of fencing (per defectum clausure) they ought not to be impounded. Geoffrey and his heirs are not able to alienate or sell this land to anyone without the special licence of the abbot and monks, provided the monks are willing to give as much for it as the others.

Witnesses: Eudes de Rocheford, Thomas de Cricket (Cruket), Adam de Wootton (Wodeton'), knights, Cilib' [recte Gilbert] Castle (de Castello), William de Wootton, Henry de Hawkwell (Hakwill), Walter Swift.

8 ? mid 13th cent.

Grant by John Heron, son of Richard Heron (Heirun), to the a. and c. of Forde, of his house in the vill of Charmouth (Cernemuth) with meadow and curtilage. Consideration 36s.

Witnesses: Sir Adam de Wootton (Wdetun'), John de Hogchester (Hogges-hurste), Robert Chartray, Roger de la Searde, Richard de la Sea, German de Kingesland (Kyngeslande), Geoffrey Heron (Heirun), William de Hartgrove (Hargrave).

9 1244 x 1250
Confirmation and quitclaim by Roger Heron (Heirun), brother of Adam Heron (Heyrun), to the a. and c. of Forde, of 17. Roger cannot demand anything from the monks for the said land unless they wish to give something out of their own generosity (mera liberalitate sua).

Witnesses: Sir Adam de Wootton (Wdetun'), Sir Roger de Cotley (Cotte-legh), John de Hogchester (Hoggeshurst), Gilbert de Anstey (Anestye), Roger his son, Luke de Bridge (Ponte), John de Beere (Ber'), Richard Heron (Heirun).

10 mid 13th cent.
Grant by Geoffrey Heron (Heirun) of la Grove to Philip Catherstone (Chartari-stone) for his homage and service of 1 1/2 acres of land at Linlega above the road leading to the grange of Charmouth (Cernemue), 1/2 acre of meadow adjoining the water called Chury, the curtilage which adjoins the door of Joan, Geoffrey's sister, and 1/3 part of the moor which Joan, Geoffrey's wife, holds and which she received from the lady of Tyfana for her dowry, together with commons of pasture. Rent 1/2 Ib of cumin at Easter.

Witnesses: Adam de Wootton (Wudetone), knight, William de la Berne, Geoffrey Debonare (le Boner), John Debonare (le Boner), John de Honiton (Hunneton), John Pain (Payn'), Roger Cook (Cocus), Roger de Anstey (Anestig').

11 1290x1297
Grant in the form of a chirograph by William, abbot, and the c. of Forde, to Philip de Catherston (Charterestun') of 2 1/2 acres of land and 1/4 acre in the western part of the furlong called Sevenacr' in their manor of Charmouth (Cernemue) in exchange for land as in 10, the rent from which the monks will acquit Philip. If Philip and his heirs cannot guarantee the land, the monks and their successors may lawfully possess it.

Witnesses: Robert de Wootton (Wudeton'), Stephen Pain (Payn'), William de la Berne, William Butcher (le Macerey) of Lyme (Lym), Robert de Lew-combe (Leuscumb).

12 c. 1300
Quitclaim by John Pain (Payn) of Catherston (Chartreston) to the a. and c. of Forde of all his right in 7 acres of arable and pasture between his land of Catherston and the water called Lovesmok, which land the abbot has been sued for by another person in the king's court. Consideration 8 marks.

Witnesses: Ralph de Rocheford, John de Mileburne (Muleburne), knights, William de Tolosa, John Purtavant, Warin Crabbe, Roger de Coskevill (Cockewell), John de Lamuton.

13 late 13th cent.

Grant by Robert Burgeis [Burges in rubric] with the consent of his wife Chris­tine to Geoffrey Heron (le Heyrun) of 2 acres of land in Charmouth (Cernemue), namely 1 acre in Lynlegh on the west side of the land of the monks of Forde, 3 perches in the croft of the said Geoffrey on the west side of the courtyard (curia) of the said monks and 1 perch called Foruthe in Lynlegh. Consideration 5s.

Witnesses: Dom Stephen, parson of Charmouth and Seaborough (Mevebgh [recte Sevebegh]), William Butcher (le Macecrer) of Lyme (Lym), Stephen Hogchester (Hoggeshurste), Robert de Lewcombe (Leucumb), Roger de la Yard.

14 mid 13th cent.
Grant in free alms by Geoffrey Heron (le Heyrun) to the a. and c. of Forde of a piece of land called le Seclond with an adjoining moor which lies in Lynlegh among the land formerly held by Philip de Catherston (Chartereiston) but now held by the monks.

Witnesses: William de Beere (la Bere), Stephen Pain (Payn), Robert de Lewcombe (Lowcumbe), Roger de la Yard (Yerd), William Butcher (le Macecrer).

15 late 13th cent.
Grant in free alms by Geoffrey Heron (le Heirun) to the a. and c. of Forde of his croft in Charmouth (Cernemue) except its meadow. This croft adjoins a croft of the monks called the sheep farm (fermaria bident'). Grant also of 1 acre of land in Lynlegh given to Geoffrey by Robert Burgeis by a charter which he will hand over to the monks. Grant also of 1/2 acre of land in Lynlegh called le Forurche which adjoins the highway.

16 mid 13th cent.
Grant in free alms by Richard Heron (Heirun) to the a. and c. of Forde, in order that he may be buried there, of all the lands in Charmouth (Cernemuhe) given to him by William Heron (Heirun), except 1/2 acre of land in Gorsfur-lang' and a messuage with curtilage next to the house of Roceline on the east side. Grant also of the homage and service of the said Roceline and his heirs. Rent, a pair of gloves or Id at Michaelmas.

Witnesses: Sir Adam de Woootton (Wdetun'), Gilbert de Anstey (Anestye), Robert Chartray (Charteray), John de Hogchester (Hoggeshust), Geoffrey le Debonare (Deboneye), Roger de la Yard (Bord), German de Kingesland (Kyngeslonde).

17 Trinity Term 1244
Final concord made at Sherborne in the octave of the Nativity of St John the Baptist 28 Henry III between the abbot of Forde, claimant, and Adam Heron (Heirun), defendant, concerning 1 knight's fee in Charmouth (Cernemue) for which a plea of warranty of charter had been summoned. Adam acknowledged the right of the abbot to hold the land in free alms. The abbot is to give Adam and his wife Maud during Adam's life 21/2 marks in equal portions at Michaelmas and Easter each year, and corrodies of 4 monks and 1/5 part of a servant's corrody in bread and ale, together with l0d each week to supplement them (ad companag').

Adam will receive 5 ells of good white woollen cloth, a pair of boots (bota-rum) and a pair of stockings at Christmas for life. The abbot will provide them with a suitable house at Thorncombe (Thorncumbe) with a curtilage which Ellis son of Ralph once held, to be maintained at the abbot's expense, and will also provide sufficient straw for bedding and firewood to the house at the reasonable request of Adam and Maud; also 3 bushels of oats of local measure and hay for a palfrey each week for Adam's life and will pay 12d each year for shoeing the horse. If Maud outlives her husband she will receive 2 marks each year in equal portions at Michaelmas and Easter and 3 monks' corrodies in bread and ale, together with 6d to supplement them each week for life. If Maud outlives Adam and wishes to sue the abbot for her dowry out of the aforesaid fee she will lose a corrody and 2d of the foresaid 6d.

18 ?1220x1239

Grant by Adam Heron (Heirun), son of William Heron, with the consent

of his wife and his heirs to Master Bernard de Dorchester (Dorcestr') of all the land which Lady Sarra held in the manor of Charmouth (Cernemuhe), together with right of access; namely the land which stretches from the sea up to the great road leading to Lyme (Lym) on the left side as far as le Welle with all the wood called Poereswde and the pasture attached to it, and two curtilages near the sea except the villeins and their curtilages. Rent lib of pepper at Michaelmas. Grant also of commons of pasture for 100 sheep, 10 oxen, 1 draught animal and 7 cows with their young and 15 animals not used for draught (otiosa). Consideration 20 marks.

Witnesses: Sir Robert de Newburgh (Novo Burgo), William Welsh (Walense), William de Woodgate (Wdegete), Philip Germain, Robert de Warmwell (Werumwelle), Philip Haranc (Harang).

19 ?1239
Grant by Bernard de Dorchester (Dorcestr'), chaplain, to the a. and c. of Forde of his land and rights as in 18. Consideration 25 marks.

Witnesses: Benedict de Beere (Bera), Adam de Wootton (Wdeton), Roger de Cotley (Cottehegh rectius Cottelegh), Thomas de Down (Duna), Peter Blount (Blundus), John Pain (Payn'), Henry Goldsmith (Aurifaber).

20 ?1239

Grant by Master Bernard de Dorchester (Dorcestr') to the a. and c. of Forde as in 18.

Witnesses: Sir Luke de Beere (Bera), Benedict de Beere, Roger de Cotley (Cottelegh).

21 20 April 1239

Acknowledgement by Robert de la Stane, Philip Qyntyn' and William Qyntyn', attornies of Master Bernard de Dorchester (Dorcestr'), dated Wednesday before the feast of St George 23 Henry III, for the sale by the said Bernard to the a. and c. of Forde of his land in Charmouth (Cernemue) for 25 marks, of which Bernard received 5 marks before he died. Afterwards Adam Heron (Hei-run) received 2 marks owed him by Bernard and John, Bernard's son, received 1 mark. The abbot gave surety in writing that he would pay to John Scholari, Bernard's son, 4 marks, and to Parnel, Bernard's daughter, 13 marks, and 20s for a horse belonging to Bernard. The attornies, wishing to provide the pay­ment, will guarantee the indemnity of the monks against all men and women, so that the abbot and monks will not incur any loss or hardship on account of the payment, or due to their debts, within the week following the said day set for payment.

If the abbot and monks are sued in any way on account of the said money, the attornies will sustain the said charge and expense of the whole plea for the abbot and monks on their advice, as soon as they have received the letters monition and transcript of the citation. If they do not do this they will pay 3s a day within the said term for the expenses of the abbot or his assigns in the cause but will pay no part of the sum sought in the plea. If the judgement favours the abbot he will restore the same money to them saving his expenses and the sum sought will not exceed 14 1/2 marks. The attornies will fully submit to the judgement of the archdeacon of Dorchester.

Witnesses: Sir Roger de Cotley (Cottelegh), Simon de Long Bredy (Lange-bridie), Richard de Laverstock (Laverkestok), William Polyn of Frome, Hugh de la Tur, Adam Heron (Heirun), Roger Bolech.

22 18 March 1324
Lease by William de la Grove, son and heir of Nicholas de la Grove, to John Pain (Pagenus) the elder of Catherston (Carteriston) of the tenement of la Grove in the manor of Charmouth (Cernemue) for 20 years from Michaelmas 1324, together with the reversion of the land which Margery, once the wife of the said Nicholas, holds as her dowry. Rent 10 bushels of corn, 5 bushels of barley, 5 bushels of beans and 2 bushels of oats in equal portions on quarterdays together with a robe at Christmas. If it pleases John to hold the tenement with the reversion beyond this term for his life, he will render thereafter each year 2 quarters of corn, 1 quarter of barley and 1 quarter of beans in equal portions on quarterdays and a robe at Christmas.

Grant by John to William of commons of pasture for a draught animal in Catherston (Carteristone) wherever his own animals are.

Witnesses: Robert de Hyndecumbe, Laurence de Forterishegh, William de Cotley (Cottelegh), Roger Cook (Cocus), Robert atte Beere (Were) [Bere in 23]. '

Dated: Catherston (Carteriston), Sunday before the feast of the Assumption 17 Edward II.

23 6 January 1324
Quitclaim by William de la Grove, son of Nicholas de la Grove, to John Pain (Pagen') the elder of his right of property as in 22.

Witnesses: as in 22, omitting Roger Cook with the addition of Guy de Mare. Dated: Catherston (Carteriston), Friday the feast of the Epiphany 17 Edward II.

24 25 March 1324
Assignment by John Pain (Payn) the elder of Catherston (Carteriston) to the a. and c. of Forde of 22 for 40 years. Consideration 10 marks for this and for the present year's harvest from the land.

Witnesses: John de Gary, John de Bridport (Brideport), John de Pilsdon (Pillesdon), Laurence de Forstoneshegh, Robert de Hyndecumbe.

Dated: Charmouth (Chernemuth), the feast of the Annunciation 17 Edward II.

25 ?1324
Grant in free alms as 24; witnesses as 24.

26 26 May 1324
Quitclaim as 24.

Dated: Charmouth (Chernemuth), the feast of St Augustine 1324.

27 23 April 1324
Quitclaim by William de la Grove, son of Nicholas de la Grove, as 24.

Witnesses: as 24.

Dated: Charmouth (Chernemuth), the feast of St George 1324.

28 early 14th cent.
Quitclaim by Nicholas de la Grove to the a. and c. of Forde of all his right in a plot of land in Charmouth (Cernemuth) which lies between the bank of the Char (Cherne) and the watercourse of the mill of Charmouth (Cernemuth). Consideration 1 mark.

Witnesses: Sir Stephen Castle (de Castro), rector of Charmouth, Geoffrey Cook (Cocus) of Lyme (Lym), William de la Berne, John Pain (Paganus), William de Catelebruge.

29 early 14th cent.
Quitclaim by Margery de la Grove, widow of William [recte Nicholas in 22] de la Grove, of her right of dower on the death of her husband in the land in 28. As she does not have a proper seal, that of Stephen, rector of the chapel of Charmouth (Cernemuth), has been affixed to this present writing.

Witnesses: Gilbert de Moxrigge, William Borde, Laurence de Beere, Roger Turner (le Turnur), William Cook (Cocus) of Charmouth (Cernemuth).

30 27 July 1337
Quitclaim by William atte Grove, son and heir of Nicholas atte Grove, to John de Worton, abbot, and the c. of Forde, of all his right in the lands of his father in the manor of Charmouth (Cernemuth) within the hundred of Whitchurch (Witchurche) and the reversion, as 22.

Witnesses: Adam de Ash (Esshe), John de Bridport (Brideport), Henry de la Hay (Hegh), Geoffrey atte Berne, John de Pilsdon (Pillesdon), John Pain (Payn'), William Dunston (Donstan') of Hursey (Herteneshegh).

Dated: Forde, Sunday after the feast of St James 11 Edward III.

31 1320x1325

Grant in the form of a chirograph by William, abbot of Forde, and the monks there, with their unanimous assent, to William de la Grove of the tenement lying between the road from the vill of Charmouth (Cernemuth) to Lyme (Lym) and the tenement held in villeinage by Roger Makehat of the abbot and monks on the south side. Rent 12d in equal portions at Easter and Michaelmas and suit to the court of Charmouth twice a year at the same terms. Witnesses: Robert de Wootton (Wudeton'), knight, William de la Berne Richard Pain (Paganus), Robert de Cotley (Cottelegh), William Yard (Borde) Robert de Hall (Aula).

32 16 February 1324

Grant by William atte Grove, son and heir of Nicholas atte Grove, to Margery widow of William the cook (le Cok) of Charmouth (Chernemouthe), of al that tenement atte Stone with its appurtenances in the manor of Charmoutl [Chernemouth], Rent a red rose at the feast of the Nativity of St John the Baptist.

Witnesses: John Pain (Payn'), Laurence de Forstereshegh, Nicholas le Ryd< [le Rede in 34] of Lyme (Lym), Roger Cokenegh (Cokeneshegh in 34), Willian Cook (Cocus).

Dated: Charmouth (Chernemoth) on Thursday after the feast of St Valentin< 17 Edward II.

John Pain was described in 34 as the elder of Catherston (Cartereston).

33 8 July 1324
Lease by William de la Grove, son and heir of Nicholas de la Grove, to the a and c. of Forde, of the tenement as in 32, for 40 years. Consideration 30s for the tenement together with all the chattels of William found there.

Dated: Charmouth (Cernemuth) on Monday after the feast of the Translation of St Thomas, archbishop and martyr 18 Edward II.

Grant in free alms as 33; witnesses as in 32.

35 16 February 1324

Grant between parties as in 32 of all goods and chattels atte Stone. Date as in 32.

36 before 1239

Quitclaim by Dom. Ralph de Little Bredy (Lithlebredia), master of St John's hospital, Bridport (Brideport), with the consent of the brothers and sisters ol the hospital, to the a. and c. of Forde, of all his right in the mill at Charmouth: (Cernemue) with messuage and curtilage adjoining. Consideration 2 1/2 marks Witnesses: John Gervase (Gervasii), Roger la Grue, Adam de Bonesham Adam Prikpeny, Peter de Winchester (Winton'), Ainulph de Winterborm (Winterbornia), Walter Sellar (Cella).

37 17 July 1239

Confirmation by Robert [de Bingham], bishop of Salisbury, of the sale by St John's hospital, Bridport, to the a. and c. of Forde, of the mill of Charmouth (Cernem') for 3 marks on the authority of Giles [de Bridport], archdeacon of Berkshire, appointed by the bishop as guardian of the hospital. Dated: Midelton, 16 kalends August 1239.

38 late 12th cent.

Grant in free alms by Ace de Estre to the a. and c. of Forde of 1/2 virgate of land which adjoins the monks' land in the tenement of Cerneia.

Witnesses: Ralph de Winsham (Winnesham), Richard de Greenham ' Grindeham), Gervase de Bridge (Ponte), Nigel de Horn Ash (Horn), Nicholas de Beere (Bera), Ralph de Hospicio, Ralph Russell, Bernard son of Bernard.

39 1170x1189

Grant in free alms by Richard del Estre for the salvation of the soul of his wife Julianne to the a. and c. of Forde of all the land [described as 1 virgate in 40] which Sericus Hacchere held in the vill called Cernia and which was held by Ace del Estre and Robert Cook (Cocus) for the service owed by Sericus. They have handed back and quitclaimed the land to Richard for him to make this gift (elimosinam) ; Ace had accepted, in exchange for his moiety, 1 /2 virgate at Kadelaberga and Robert, for his moiety, has accepted 1/2 virgate at Smalacumba. The monks are to render such royal service due from 1 virgate of land in the said manor.

Witnesses: Robert de Estre (Estr'), Philip de Estre (Estr'), Ace del Estre ; Estr), brothers of the grantor.

The grant is cited in the royal charter of 1189: Cartae Antiquae (Pipe Roll Soc. n.s. xxxiii), pp. 162-4.

40 early 13th cent.

Confirmation in free alms by Richard, son of Richard del Estre, to the a. and c. of Forde of 39, which land adjoins the stone bridge of Cernia and also the adjoining 1/2 virgate of land which Ace del Estre gave to the monks together with the intake (incrementum) of land which Richard gave to Ace from his demesne. These lands are bounded thus: from the cross above Cernedun along the road from Westhegge as far as Reddeclive and then to Coppeford along the boundary made between the lands of Richard and the monks; along the stream of Cernia up to the stone bridge and finally along the highway leading to Bridport (Brideport) to the said cross. Grant also of commons of pasture for 12 oxen, 5 cows with as many male or female calves and 100 sheep or, if the monks prefer, instead of the sheep 15 cows with as many male or female calves, 1 bull and 2 draught animals. Consideration 31/2 marks.

Witnesses: Master Ellis de Toller (Tolra), Osbert Dennis (Dacus), Richard de Broad Windsor (Wyndesore), Ralph de Vaux (Vallibus), Robert son of William, Richard son of Jordan. [f 16v]

41 early 14th cent.
Grant by Richard de Chard (Cerda), clerk, to the a. and c. of Forde of all his right in a croft, together with the houses he has built thereon, in the vill of Charmouth (Cernemuth) which he holds of the monks and which John Cetus, called the clerk, held in villeinage before him.

Witnesses: William de la Berne, Richard Pain (Paganus), Roger de la Yard (Herde) [recte Yerde], William de la Grove, Robert de Hall (Aula).

42 mid 12th cent.
Grant in free alms by Muriel, sister of Stephen de Mandeville (Mauneville), and William Sturmy (Estur) her son to the a. and c. of Forde of 20 acres of land at Street (Stret) between the wood of Stocca the moor (mare) above the water and a part of their meadow adjoining Stocca.

Witnesses: William Deacon (Diaconus), William Carbonell, Henry his brother, Richard de Cheyney (Chenney), Humphrey de Vilers and Gervase Carbonell (Garb').

Stephen de Mandeville died in 1154: I.J. Sanders, English Baronies, 42.

43 8 April 1311
Quitclaim by Roger de la Shaw (Mchaghe) [recte Schaghe in 13] to the a. and c. of Forde of all his right in the lands and tenements in Charmouth (Cerne­muth) which he gave to Richard Messenger.

Dated: Forde, Thursday after the feast of St Ambrose 4 Edward II.

44 c. 1295
Quitclaim in the form of a chirograph by Isabel de Godmanstone (Godmenes-ton), once the wife of Robert de la Water (Watere), in her independent widow­hood, to the a. and c. of Forde of all right in the land on the east of the water of Charmouth (Cernemue) held by her for her life of the abbot, who held it of Robert de Lewcombe (Leucumb). Consideration: the monks have remitted the annual rent for her burgage tenement in Charmouth. After her death this rent of 2s will revert to the monks.

Witnesses: Sir Robert de Wootton (Wdeton'), Robert de Cotley (Cottelegh), William de la Berne (Bern'), Gregory de Lyme (Lym), Robert de Godmanstone (Gevemeneston).

For the date see 45 and 46. It postdates the creation of the borough during the period 1291 x 1297: above, no. 1.

45 July 1294
Quitclaim by Isabel de Water (Aqua), once the wife of Robert de Water (Aqua), in her independent widowhood, to the a. and c. of Forde, remitting all her lands and tenements in Charmouth (Cernemue) which she holds in their fee. Consideration 5 marks.

Witnesses: Robert de Wootton (Woditon'), knight, Robert de Uppehegh Uppehey), Gilbert de Moxrigge (Moxrugge), William Borde, William de la Grove (Grave), John Pain (Payn').

Dated: July 22 Edward I.

46 11 May 1287

Letters of attorney of Isabel, once the wife of Robert de Water (Lewe), appointing Robert de Godmanstone (Godmanuston) her brother attorney to liver seisin to the a. and c. of Forde of all the land in Charmouth (Chernemue) which she holds of him for her life.

Dated: Godmanstone (Godmanuston), Sunday before the Ascension 15 iward I.

47 post May 1251

Confirmation by John de Hogchester (Hoggeshurst) on the advice of law worthy men that the boundaries of the lands of the monks of Forde in Charmouth (Cernemue) and his land of Hogchester (Hoggeshurst), over which a dispute as arisen between him and Dom Adam, the abbot, should be ratified and iblished for ever: namely from the road which separates the lands of John the lord of Colway (Colvehege), as by a new ditch surveyed and confirmed ?y general agreement in May 35 Henry III [1251] between Hildewys and Lange-lore towards the east up to the road from John's land to Charmouth. John ad his heirs are held to make a ditch or fence from this road westwards up to the spring on the boundary and then northwards up to John's arable land, and in default of a ditch or a fence, the monks will not have to undertake the work .

Witnesses: Sir Adam de Wootton (Wdeton), William Welsh (Wallense), 3hn de Honiton (Huneton), Richard Gardener (de Gardino), Richard de lyndecumbe (Hirecumbe).

48 22 August 1281

Notification by Robert [Wickhampton], bishop of Salisbury, that he has been informed by many trustworthy men that the secular chapel of Charmouth Cernemue), built a long time ago near the sea, has been ruined by the battering of the sea and storms. He gives his authority and assent to the abbot and monks of Forde, the postulant patrons of the chapel, to move it to a more suitable site than the shore and build a chapel on their own land to the honour of the blessed apostle Matthew and All Saints, in which they may provide clerics and secular priests to minister divine service with due devotion.

They shall have the bishop's proper indulgence for all his parishioners or others of his diocese for their sins, truly repented and confessed, who have honoured that place by conferring their goods to God or at least through prayers of support, worthy for God, the Blessed Virgin Mary, Matthew the apostle and all saints. Believing in their self-imposed penance of forty days, he mercifully remits these indulgences from the venerable fathers, his fellow bishops, and ratifies these concessions for the future, saving always the rights of the mother church of Whitchurch [Canonicorum] (Witchurche), his author­ity and that of his successors and the dignity of the church of Salisbury.

Dated: Woodford (Wodeford), 11 kalends September 1281 and the 8th year of his pontificate.

49 1236 x1250
Confirmation by Robert de Beauchamp (Bello Campo) to the a. and c. of Forde of Charmouth (Cernemue), given to them by Adam Heron (Heirun) and Master Bernard de Dorchester (Dorcestr) as is contained in their charters. Rent and services as in 2. Robert and his heirs may distrain for these services if the monks are unwilling to render them.

Witnesses: as 2 omitting Sir Robert de Beauchamp.

50 mid 13th cent.
Grant in free alms and quitclaim by Robert de Beauchamp (Bello Campo) for the salvation of the soul of his wife Juliane to the a. and c. of Forde of the annual payment as 2 for all services except royal service.

Witnesses: William son of Henry de Kemelecumbe (Kemelescumbe), Adam de Wootton (Wodeton), Roger de Cotley (Cottelegh), Benedict de Beere (Bere), William de Dowlish (Doveliz).

For the date see 51. Robert Avenell, Gervase de Kingesland, Stephen de Tatworth (Tadeworth/ Tateworth), Henry Hawkwell are added to the witness lists in the recitals of this charter in 51 and

51 4 April 1336
Inspeximus and confirmation by John de Beauchamp (Bello Campo) of Somer­set, lord of Hatch (Hacche), knight, of 50, made by Sir Robert de Beauchamp (Bello Campo) his great grandfather (proavi).

Dated: Stoke sub Hamdon (Stoke subitus Hamedon), Thursday the feast of St Ambrose 10 Edward III.

Witnesses: Alan de Ash (Esse), John de Bridport (Brideport), Robert de Somerton (Somertone), Henry de la Hay (Hegh), Humphrey de Kael (Gael).

52 4 April 1336
Copy of 51.

Witnesses: John de Erlegh (Erlee), John Inge, Thomas de Marlborough (Marleburgh), knights, John Sylveyn, Robert de Somerton, Alan de Ash (Essh'), Robert de Midelney (Middelny). The word 'knights' crossed out.

53 1220 x 1231
Quitclaim by Robert de Mandeville to the a. and c. of Forde of all his right to the free harbour built or to be built in their manor of Charmouth (Cernemue)

which he has by royal or any other gift. Quitclaim also to any rights to every kind of wreck of goods, chattels, fish or whatsoever that has been or shall be thrown up by the sea in the said manor or harbour. The abbot may hold the manor in free alms quit of all secular services outside his fee and lordship, retaining for Robert and his heirs the support of prayers.

Witnesses: William, parson of Coker, Master Nicholas de Beere (la Bere), Robert de Winsham (Wynsham), Alfred Chaplain (Capellanus), Nicholas Clerk (Clericus), Robert de Upton (Uppetone), then steward, Richard de Lang-ford (Langeford).

Robert de Mandeville died c. 1231: I.J. Sanders, English Baronies, 64.

54 1220 x 1231

Quitclaim by Robert de Mandeville (Mandavilla) to the a. and monks of Forde, all their men, servants, freemen and villeins in their manors of Burstock (Burgs-tok) and Hursey (Hursteneshegh), their manor of Charmouth (Cernemue) with the tenement of Newlands (Niwelonde) which has been attached of old (ab antique) to that manor and all their lands and tenements in Monkton Wylde (la Wile), remitting all kinds of suits of court, customs and all other services and secular demands from Robert and his heirs for the hundred of Whitchurch (Witchurche) or otherwise pertaining in any other way. They may have all the liberties of a free hundred for the said manors and lands with such liberties, customary rights, pleas, amercements and every sort of punishment (giwisis [also gywisis in 55, both variants of juwis}) as Robert holds for the hundred of Whitchurch (Whitchurche) by royal or any other privilege. To be held in perpetual free alms outside the fee and lordship of Robert and his heirs, reserv­ing only for Robert his chase of Marshwood (Merswode) without causing any loss to the monks in their manor of Charmouth.

Witnesses: Master Philip de Upton (Uppeton), Ralph de Winsham (Wyn­sham), Robert de Bourne, William Merchant (Mercator), Alfred Chaplain (Capellanus), Nicholas Clerk (Clericus), Bernard de Hareswoldecumba (Her-waldescumbe) (Herewaldescumbe in 55).

55 c. 1240

Inspeximus and confirmation by Geoffrey de Mandeville (Mandavilla), lord of the manor of Marshwood (Mershwode) and the hundred of Whitchurch (Whitchurche) of 53 and 54.

Witnesses: Ives de Rocheford, Adam de Wootton (Wodeton), knights, Ives de Pilsdon (Pillesdon), Walter de la Berne, William Welsh (le Walleys), Gilbert de Anstey (Anestie), Bartholomew de la Mer, Roger de Shaw (la Shawe), Stephen Pain (Payn').

Geoffrey de Mandeville (III) was son of Robert. He succeeded his father c. 1231 and died in 1269: I.J. Sanders, English Baronies, 64. A marginal note states that this charter was shown to the council of Queen Elizabeth in the Michaelmas Term 12 Henry VII (1496) for the discharge of homage, relief and irregularities, and remained in the free register in the council room at Westmins­ter perhaps until Easter Term in the same regnal year. The manor of Marsh-wood was granted to Elizabeth by Henry VII as part of her marriage portion which she would inherit on the death of her grandmother Cecily, Duchess of York, who died on 31 May 1495. The queen's recent acquisition explains the interest in checking the regularity of the grant.

56 1 October 1318
Inspeximus and confirmation by Robert Fitzpaine (le FitzPayn), son and heir of Robert Fitzpaine, lord of the manor of Marshwood and the hundred of II.

Witnesses: John de Chideock (Chidiok), John de Gary, John Peverel (Pever-all), John de Alneto, knights, William de Blandford (Blaneford), Robert de Uppehegh, John Pain (Payn').

Robert de Mandeville was described as a knight in this recital.

57 1 October 1318
Inspeximus and confirmation by Robert Fitzpaine (le FitzPayn) of 54.

Witnesses and date as 56.

NEWLANDS (NEWLOND)

58 ? 1275x1291

Grant by William le Debonare (Debonere) to William de la Beere for his homage and service of Newlands (la Nywelond). Rent 1 mark at Easter, saving royal service due from a free tenement within the manor of Charmouth (Cerne-mue). Consideration 12 marks.

Witnesses: Robert de Wootton (Wodeton'), William de la Wyle (Wile). Walter de la Wyle (Wile), Robert de Cotley (Cuttehegh), Robert de Anstey (Anestie), Stephen Pain (Payn'), Roger de Yard (Yrde), Walter de Luveney (Luveny), Richard Gardener (de Gardino).

59 1291x 1297

Confirmation in the form of a chirograph by brother William, abbot of Forde, of 58 made by William le Debonare (Debonere), who was once tenant of Newlands (la Niwelond) in the manor of Charmouth (Cernemue). Although by that deed William de la Beere has been declared quit of all suit of court and is bound to pay a rent of 1 mark, he will now pay 10s in equal portions on quarter days and owe suit of court twice a year to the court of Charmouth (Cernemue) on Monday after Hockday (le Hockeday) and Monday after Michaelmas. Witnesses: Robert de Wootton (Wodeton'), Peter de Eastham (Estham), Henry de Hawkwell (Hakewell), Richard Long (le Lung), William de Clavile.

William was abbot in the period 1291-7: nos. 1, 11, 59, 65, 477.

60 before 1291

Grant in free alms by William de la Berne (Bern), son of Geoffrey de la Berne, to the a. and c. of Forde as 58.

Witnesses: Robert de Wootton (Wodeton'), Ralph de Rocheford, knights, William de Clavile, Nicholas Beysin, Robert de Cotley (Cutteheie), Richard Pain (Payn), William de Catelebruge (Cadelburg').

61 mid 13th cent.

Grant by Geoffrey Debonare (le Bonere) to Robert de Lewcombe (Leucumba) for his homage and service of a croft of land called Brodefurlong in Geoffrey's tenement of Newlands (la Nywelond) together with the meadow in that said croft beside the water of Cerne on the south side, and a croft called la Novele which lies on the left side of the road; also all the land and moor on the same side of the road bounded by the ditch running south from the corner of la Novele [Shovele in 62] up to the highway, then along the road descending south as far as the bridge of Cerne and from the bridge along the stream ascending from the other side of Cerne; also all the land and moor up to the corner of la Brodefurlong' beside the water of Cerne and one plot of land in Stretfurlong bounded by the ditch which starts at the head of the said furlong and runs south to the highway, then eastwards along the ditch as far as the head of la Novele, then along a line through the middle of la Novele southwards to the said highway; and all that meadow called Colemed' bounded around by a ditch. Rent 6d at Easter; assignment to Jews is forbidden. Consideration 100s.

Witnesses: Robert de Wootton (Wudetun'), William de la Berne (Bern), Walter de Luveney (Luveny), Robert de Cotley (Cuteh'), Peter de Buvewode tBuwnd).

For the date see 64.

mid 13th cent.

Grant in free alms by Robert de Lewcombe (Leucumbe) with the consent of his wife Margery to the a. and c. of Forde as 61, saving the rent of 6d paid to the heirs of Geoffrey Debonare (le Bonere).

Witnesses: Henry de Hawkwell (Hakwell), Luke de Bridge (Ponte), John de Uppehegh, Stephen Pain (Payn'), Geoffrey Heron (le Heiron), William Butcher (le Macecrer) of Lyme (Lym), William Hosteler (le Ostiller).

[ff 29v-30]

63 mid 13th cent.
Grant by William Debonare (le Deboneyre), son and heir of Geoffrey Debonare (le Deboneyre) [de Boneyre in rubric], to the a. and c. of Forde of the rent and service as in 58 due from land in the parish of Whitchurch (Witechurche).

Witnesses: Robert de Wootton (Wodeton'), Walter de Luveney (Lov-eyngny), William de Clavile (Clavyle), William de Uppehegh (Uppeheygh), Laurence de Beere (la Bere), Walter de Wyle (la Wile), Stephen de Hogchester (Hoggeshurst), Robert de Cotley (Cutteheigh), Richard de la Yerde (Yerde).

[f30]

64 11 September 1291
Royal letters patent giving licence to the a. and c. of Forde for the appropriation in mortmain to them and their successors for ever of 80 acres in Charmouth (Cernemue) given to them by William de la Berne, deceased, who held it of them.

Dated : Amesbury (Ambresbury) 11 September 19 Edward I.