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Simple English definitions for legal terms
Pipe Rolls
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A quick definition of Pipe Rolls:
PIPE ROLLS: The Pipe Rolls were records of the money that the king collected from people. They were kept by the Exchequer and included money from taxes, fees, and land. The rolls were made of parchment and sewn together. There were 676 rolls covering many years, except for some missing years. They are called Great Rolls of the Exchequer too. The rolls tell us about the people who owed money to the king, how the king's government worked, and who worked for the king.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: Pipe Rolls are historical records of the Exchequer that document royal revenue, including revenue from feudal holdings, judicial fees, and tax revenue collected by the sheriffs. These rolls are also known as Great Rolls of the Exchequer and comprise 676 rolls, covering the years 1131 and 1156 to 1833 (except for gaps in 1216 and 1403).
Example: The Pipe Rolls contain information about royal debtors, administration, and personnel of the King's government. For instance, the roll recording financial details at the end of Henry I's reign is in existence, thanks to Roger of Salisbury, Henry I's Treasurer, who established a rudimentary national financial system.
Explanation: The example illustrates how the Pipe Rolls were used to keep track of financial details during the reign of Henry I. These records were crucial in managing the royal revenue and ensuring that the government had enough funds to carry out its duties. The Pipe Rolls also provide valuable insights into the administration and personnel of the King's government, making them an essential resource for historians and researchers studying medieval England.