Robert Isham 1402-1474

Isham: Robert Isham, Commissioner of the Peace

Biographical Overview

Based on Research by Preston Isom, BA History, Susquehanna University (17th Great-Grandson of Robert Isham)

Robert Isham Jr. pursued a long and notable public career amidst the volatile political and economic landscape of fifteenth-century England. Born in Pytchley, Northamptonshire, England in 1402, Robert was the son of Robert Isham Sr. and a mother whose name is unrecorded in available sources. Robert Isham Sr. held the office of escheator for Northamptonshire. This role, comparable to a modern property lawyer, involved “administering escheats and forfeitures, wardships and marriages.” Robert Isham Sr.'s appointment as escheator likely occurred during the reign of Richard II. His status as landowning gentry, a typical background for royal appointees in local administration, suggests this connection. He continued in this role into the early years of Henry IV's reign.

Robert Isham Jr. likely spent his formative years in Northamptonshire, the location of his father’s land and residence. As the eldest son, it is reasonable to infer that Robert received informal training from his father in estate management and the duties associated with his father's positions, preparing him for potential future responsibilities within the family holdings. His youth coincided with a period of significant political instability, marked by the ongoing Hundred Years' War and the perceived weaknesses of Henry VI’s government. Robert would have been exposed to the complexities of both local and national politics. The Isham family's income derived from land rentals and participation in local administration. Robert Isham Sr. had served as an esquire for Northamptonshire during the reigns of Richard II and Henry IV , a rank denoting a principal landowner and often encompassing government roles such as justice of the peace. The Isham family likely had established connections within the wool trade, a significant sector in Northamptonshire , which would later prove advantageous for Robert Isham Jr. The economic shifts following the Black Death, contributing to the Renaissance, created opportunities that families like the Ishams could leverage.

Upon Robert Isham Sr.’s death in March 1424, Robert Jr. inherited a substantial estate of 315 acres, along with income from tenant farmers. According to an inquisition post mortem, this inheritance provided an estimated annual income of £2 16s 7d, indicating considerable wealth for the time. In 1426, he married Elizabeth de Knuston, a widow, and they had a son, William Isham, born on 10 April 1427. Elizabeth died in 1431; the cause of her death is not documented in available records. Robert remarried to Margarete Allington, also a widow. This marriage brought significant land in Northamptonshire, augmenting Robert's holdings. Between 1433 and 1436, Robert served on three commissions of the peace. He also pursued legal action against Robert Rede, a farmer, to recover a debt of 40 shillings , indicating his engagement with local legal processes. Like other landowners, Robert likely leased land to local farmers for rent and services . The Isham family’s history suggests a pattern of strategic marriages that enhanced their economic position. With Margarete Allington, Robert had three sons: Robert (born in 1433), John (born in 1434), and Richard (born in 1435). (Genealogical sources suggest these birthdates, though primary source confirmation is needed).

On 28 November 1439, Robert participated in his first commission of the peace, attended by Henry VI . Commissions of the Peace were important regional meetings for governance between the Crown and local leaders, addressing issues from land management to law enforcement. Robert’s membership signified his local influence, as these commissions were generally composed of significant landowning gentry. It also offered opportunities to interact with influential figures. On 4 July 1440, Robert was involved in the division of lands of John, Earl of Somerset , gaining access to some lands for a fee. By this time, Robert held the rank of esquire, reflecting his land ownership and local government role. He participated in further Northamptonshire commissions of the peace on 26 January and 18 November 1441, under Henry VI’s authority .

Robert’s involvement in land transactions and commissions suggests practical experience in property law and court procedures. In July 1443, he settled a dispute with the Allington family regarding Thomas Allington’s will. The agreement, formalized for 100 marks of silver , ensured land and income rights passed to Robert through his marriage to Margarete, rather than to Thomas Allington’s family. On 27 March 1450, Robert was made feoffee to the lands of Elizabeth and Richard Lestrange , further increasing his Northamptonshire landholdings. Given his involvement in trade and landownership, Jack Cade’s Rebellion in July 1450 would have been of interest and likely influenced his views on the growing political instability leading to the Wars of the Roses. Jack Cade’s Rebellion was a significant popular revolt driven by discontent over the Hundred Years' War and perceived government corruption. Henry VI’s weak response allowed the rebellion to escalate, suppressed only by Queen Margaret’s forceful actions. This event underscored Henry VI’s ineffective rule and contributed to the deteriorating political climate.

On 4 December 1454, Robert attended a Commission of the Peace in Westminster, with both Richard, Duke of York, and Henry VI present . Westminster, approximately 75 miles from Northamptonshire, was the location of a meeting held during a period of significant national tension. Henry VI had experienced a mental breakdown in August 1453, deepening the divide between Richard Duke of York's faction and the King's supporters. This commission was among the last before Henry VI’s partial recovery on Christmas Day 1454 . Robert Isham may have observed the King’s condition and begun developing relationships with Yorkist nobles at this meeting.

The Battle of St. Albans in May 1455 strengthened Richard Duke of York’s position. By October 1455, Robert Isham was listed as a beneficiary in a land transaction with Edward and Elizabeth Grey, for 1000 marks of silver . The Grey family became strong Yorkists, and this agreement likely provided Robert access to Grey lands in Northamptonshire. The Grey family’s prominence included Elizabeth Woodville, later Queen consort to Edward IV. Robert Isham’s Yorkist connections continued; in 1457, he was commissioned with Yorkists like Richard Duke of York and Greys to recruit archers . These nobles were tasked with raising 346 archers from Northamptonshire as part of a broader military buildup in 1457. To maintain order, Henry VI, under York’s influence, deployed troops including “thousands of royal archers…guarding the whole Thames corridor” . This military presence aimed to deter unrest.

The historical record provides limited information on Robert Isham’s activities for the next three years. However, his involvement in transferring prisoners from Northampton in February 1460 indicates his continued significance within the Northamptonshire gentry. This group included Sir William Catesby, associated with Richard III, and Sir William Lucy, killed in a dispute related to the Battle of Northampton . Thomas Wake and Thomas Treshen, along with John Dyve and Robert Tenfeld, were also part of this group of esquires. The year 1460 was critical for Northamptonshire and its Yorkist gentry. Robert likely faced political and economic pressures due to Queen Margaret’s actions against Yorkists . On 10 July 1460, the Battle of Northampton occurred near Robert’s residence. At 58, direct participation is unlikely. Lord Grey of Ruthin’s betrayal of Henry VI at this battle led to the King’s capture by Yorkists. Lancastrian nobles were reportedly killed under Warwick’s orders . If present, Robert would have witnessed the use of field artillery and Henry VI’s second capture. Given his Grey family connections and Yorkist associations, Robert likely benefited from supporting the Yorkist cause after this victory.

Following Edward IV’s ascension in 1461, Robert Isham’s career advanced. In 1466, land in Northamptonshire was granted to Robert and others, possibly as reward for loyalty, by order of Edward IV’s sister, Anne of York . Robert attended another commission of the peace under Edward IV in Westminster. In 1468, by royal treasurer’s decree, Robert was appointed “controller of the great custom and the subsidy of wools, hides, and wool-felts in the port of London” . This was a significant appointment, placing him in charge of customs in a major economic center, reflecting royal favor. He assumed this role during an economic recovery after a period of bullion outflow and trade imbalance . Wool exports improved during his tenure, coinciding with relative stability . Wool was central to the English economy. As port controller, Robert oversaw the export of approximately 9,293 sacks of wool annually from London . In 1468, he also attended commissions of the peace in Westminster . In 1469, Robert is recorded as a sergeant-at-law, instructed to investigate Thomas Tailor of Northampton . This temporary title likely denoted a law enforcement role, possibly related to unrest against Edward IV linked to Lord Warwick. However, further information on Thomas Tailor is lacking. In November 1469, John Stoddard replaced Robert as port controller. Such position changes were common . Robert’s tenure was relatively long and coincided with improved wool exports.

As the Wars of the Roses resumed, Robert attended a commission in July 1470 , before Edward IV’s exile. He did not participate in commissions during Henry VI’s brief restoration but attended one in May 1472 after Edward IV regained power . In 1473, Robert remained active in governance. On 4 April 1473, at age 71, he attended his last recorded commission of the peace , totaling 15 commissions over 34 years. In August 1473, Robert and others were tasked with auditing lands for tax evasion . This is his last documented political appointment.

Robert Isham died in 1475 at 73. He was buried in Pytchley, Northamptonshire, and his wife and sons inherited his estate. (Sources detail his burial and family inheritance, further specifics on sons' careers as merchants and lawyers require additional sourcing). His sons are reported to have become merchants and lawyers. Robert Isham’s life illustrates how individuals could navigate and prosper during the turbulent fifteenth century through diligence and strategic political choices. His Yorkist alignment facilitated his political and economic success, benefiting his family. He demonstrated knowledge of common law and the economic system, contributing to wool market recovery as London port commissioner. Robert Isham likely witnessed and participated in significant events of the Wars of the Roses, deserving recognition for his long and productive life amidst considerable upheaval.

Bibliography

• Alyngton, Thomas, and Robert Isham. CP 25/1/179/94, number 97. May 29, 1440. Accessed January 6, 2021. http://aalt.law.uh.edu/CP25%281%29/CP25%281%29Nhants179/IMG_0274.htm.
  • Thomas has acknowledged the tenements and rent to be the right of Robert, and has granted for himself and his heirs that the tenements and rent - which Margaret held for life of the inheritance of Thomas in the aforesaid vill on the day the agreement was made, and which after the decease of Margaret ought to revert to Thomas and his heirs - after the decease of Margaret shall remain to Robert and his heirs, to hold of the chief lords forever.

• Ancestry.com. A survey of the Ishams in England and America : eight hundred and fifty years of history and genealogy [database on-line]. Provo, UT: Ancestry.com Operations Inc, 2005.

• H.M. Stationery Office, Public Record Office, Great Britain. Calendar of the Patent Rolls: Edward IV and Henry VI 1467-1477. 1900. https://hdl.handle.net/2027/umn.31951d02046614m?urlappend=%3Bseq=633.
  • Commissions of the Peace Northamptonshire 1467-1473.

• "Introduction," in The Overseas Trade of London: Exchequer Customs Accounts, 1480-1, ed. H S Cobb (London: London Record Society, 1990), xi-xlvii. British History Online, accessed January 6, 2021, http://www.british-history.ac.uk/london-record-soc/vol27/xi-xlvii.

• Jones, Dan. The War of the Roses: The Fall of the Plantagenets and the Rise of the Tudors. New York, NY: Penguin Group, 2014.

• "The King's government in the Middle Ages," in A History of the County of Wiltshire: Volume 5, ed. R B Pugh and Elizabeth Crittall (London: Victoria County History, 1957), 1-43. British History Online, accessed January 6, 2021, http://www.british-history.ac.uk/vch/wilts/vol5/pp1-43.

• Motte, John. Royal Inquisition into the Death of Robert Isham. March 28, 1425. https://www.familysearch.org/photos/artifacts/111512731.

• "Parishes: Pytchley," in A History of the County of Northampton: Volume 4, ed. L F Salzman (London: Victoria County History, 1937), 208-213. British History Online, accessed January 6, 2021, http://www.british-history.ac.uk/vch/northants/vol4/pp208-213.

• Payling, Simon, Dr. "The Battle of Northampton and the Strange Death of Sir William Lucy MP." The History of Parliament. Last modified July 8, 2015. Accessed January 8, 2021. https://thehistoryofparliament.wordpress.com/2015/07/08/the-battle-of-northampton-and-the-strange-death-of-sir-william-lucy-mp/.

• Public Record, Great Britain. Calendar of Patent Rolls: Edward IV 1461-1467. 1897. https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=njp.32101076189859&view=image&seq=5.

• Public Records, Great Brianna. "Calendar of Patent Rolls: Henry VI Vol 1436-1441." 1907. https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015031079612&view=image&seq=599&q1=isham.

• Public Records, Great Britain. Calendar of Patent Rolls: Edward IV, Edward V, Richard III 1467-1485. 1901. https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015031079554&view=image&seq=5.
• Public Records, Great Britain. Calendar of Patent Rolls: Henry VI Vol. VI 1441-1446. 1908. https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015031079604&view=image&seq=487&q1=isham.
  • Containing commissions of the peace of Northamptonshire as well as the record of Robert Isham legal cases.

• Public Reference Office, Great Britain. "Calendar of Patent Rolls: Henry VI Vol V. 1446-1452." 1909. https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015031079539&view=image&seq=323&q1=isham.
  • Commissions of the peace of Northamptonshire 1448-1452 including feoffee for the estate of Elizabeth Lestraunge

• Rorke, Martin. "English and Scottish Overseas Trade, 1300-1600." The Economic History Review, New Series, 59, no. 2 (2006): 265-88. Accessed January 8, 2021. http://www.jstor.org/stable/3805936.

• Stationary Office, Public Record Office, Great Britain. "Calendar of Patent Rolls: Henry VI Volume VI, 1452-1461." 1910. https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=umn.31951d02046612q&view=image&seq=685&q1=isham.
  • Commission for the Peace Northamptonshire 1454.

• Walesby, William. CP 25/1/293/72, number 398. October 27, 1455. Accessed January 6, 2021. http://aalt.law.uh.edu/AALT4/CP25%281%29/CP25_1_293/IMG_0392.htm.
  • Edward and Elizabeth have acknowledged the manors to be the right of William Walesby, as those which the same William, Thomas, Thomas, William Boudon', William Fielding' and Robert have of their gift, and have remised and quitclaimed them from themselves and the heirs of Elizabeth to William, Thomas, Thomas, William, William and Robert and the heirs of William Walesby forever.

Transcriptions and Translations of Primary Source Documents on AALT

CP 40/664 (Hilary 1427)

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• Persons: Robert Isham, Thomas Wodevyll, Roger Flore, William Glen
• Places: Pyghtesle (Pytchley)

This document, CP 40/664 from Hilary Term 1427, is a quitclaim issued by Robert Isham Jr., identified as "son and heir of Robert Isham of Pightesle, deceased esquire."

In this legal document, Robert Isham Jr. formally relinquishes and forever quitclaims all of his rights and claims to certain manors, lands, tenements, possessions, and services located in Northamptonshire. These properties are identified as formerly belonging to William lord la Zouche (deceased father of the current William lord la Zouche) and also as being "of Roger."

The quitclaim is made out to Thomas Wodevyll, Roger Flore (both esquires), and William Glen (clerk). Notably, Thomas Wodevyll is a significant figure in retrospect: he was the grandfather of Elizabeth Woodville, who would later become Queen of England as the consort of King Edward IV. This connection highlights the intricate web of relationships within the English gentry. Even in 1427, Robert Isham Jr. was interacting in legal matters with individuals from families that, like the Woodvilles, would later rise to national prominence. The presence of esquires like Wodevyll and Flore, along with a clerk like William Glen, underscores the gentry context of Robert Isham's early activities.

The document is dated February 12th, in the fourth year of King Henry VI's reign (1427).

In the context of Robert Isham's biography, this document suggests the following:

• Early Legal Activity: Even early in his inheritance (around age 25), Robert Isham Jr. was involved in legal transactions concerning land rights. This aligns with the biography's portrayal of him as someone with experience in property law.
• Resolution of Inheritance Matters: As the "son and heir," this quitclaim likely relates to settling some aspect of his father Robert Isham Sr.'s estate. It's possible Robert Isham Sr. had some claim or involvement with the Zouche family's lands, and Robert Jr. is now formally resolving this.
• Connections to Local Gentry and Wider Networks: The document names Thomas Wodevyll and Roger Flore, who are identified as esquires, indicating Robert Isham Jr.'s interactions with other members of the Northamptonshire gentry class early in his career. The Woodville connection, in particular, reveals that these local gentry networks were linked to families that would eventually play major roles on the national stage. William Glen, as a clerk, likely represents legal or administrative expertise within these circles.
• Unclear Nature of the Claim: The document itself doesn't specify why Robert Isham Jr. might have had a claim to these Zouche lands. It could be due to inheritance, a previous agreement, or some other form. Regardless of the specifics, the quitclaim demonstrates his active participation in resolving land rights and his engagement with prominent figures of his time.

Abbreviated Latin Text

Line	Text
1	¶ Rob'tus Isham filius et heres Rob'ti Isham de Pyghtesle Armig' defuncti Omnib' xp'i
2	fidelib' ad quos p'sens scriptum p'uen'it Sal't'm Noueritis me Rob'tum Isham filiu' et heredem
3	dicti Rob'ti de Pyghtesle Armig' defuncti p'misisse relaxasse ac omnio p' me et heredib' meis
4	imppm' quietum clamasse Thome Wodeuylle et Rog'o Fflore Armig'is et Will'o Glen cl'ico tot'um
5	ius meum et clameum que h'eo vel h'ere pot'o in fut'um in omnib' illis man'iis terris ten'
6	p'dictis possionib' et seruic' quibuscumq' cum omnib' suis p'tin' in com' p'dict' que
7	fuit et Rog'i que fuerunt Will'i d'ni la Zouche defuncti patris Will'i nunc d'ni la Zouche
8	Ita q'd nec ego nec heredes mei aliquod ius vel clameum in p'dcis man'iis et terris ten'
9	possionib' et seruiciis cum suis p'tin' decet'o exig'e vel vendicare pot'imus in fut'um
10	acces' imp'p'm claudo sigillo explicit p' p'sentes In cuius rei testimoniu' p'sentib' sigillum
11	meum apposui Dat' duodecimo die ffebr'arii Anno regni Regis henr' sexti post conquestum
12	quarto

Expanded Latin Text

Line	Text
1	¶ Robertus Isham filius et heres Roberti Isham de Pyghtesle Armigeri defuncti Omnibus Christi
2	fidelibus ad quos presens scriptum pervenerit Salutem Noveritis me Robertum Isham filium et heredem
3	dicti Roberti de Pyghtesle Armigeri defuncti promisisse relaxasse ac omnino pro me et heredibus meis
4	imperpetuum quietum clamasse Thome Wodevylle et Rogero Fflore Armigeris et Willelmo Glen clerico totum
5	ius meum et clameum que habeo vel habere potero in futurum in omnibus illis maneriis terris tenementis
6	predictis possessionibus et serviciis quibuscumque cum omnibus suis pertinenciis in comitatu predicto que
7	fuit et Rogeri que fuerunt Willelmi domini la Zouche defuncti patris Willelmi nunc domini la Zouche
8	Ita quod nec ego nec heredes mei aliquod ius vel clameum in predictis maneriis et terris tenementis
9	possessionibus et serviciis cum suis pertinenciis decetero exigere vel vendicare poterimus in futurum
10	accessu imperpetuum claudo sigillo explicit per presentes In cuius rei testimonium presentibus sigillum
11	meum apposui Datum duodecimo die ffebruarii Anno regni Regis henrici sexti post conquestum
12	quarto

English Translation

Line	Text
1	¶ Robert Isham, son and heir of Robert Isham of Pightesle, deceased esquire, to all the faithful of Christ
2	to whom this present writing shall come, Greetings. Know that I, Robert Isham, son and heir
3	of the said Robert of Pightesle, deceased esquire, have promised, released, and entirely for me and my heirs
4	forever quitclaimed to Thomas Wodevylle and Roger Flore, esquires, and William Glen, clerk, all
5	my right and claim which I have or might have in the future in all those manors, lands, tenements
6	aforesaid possessions and services whatsoever with all their appurtenances in the county aforesaid which
7	was and of Roger which were of William lord la Zouche deceased father of William now lord la Zouche
8	So that neither I nor my heirs any right or claim in the aforesaid manors and lands tenements
9	possessions and services with their appurtenances henceforth shall be able to demand or claim in future
10	access forever I conclude with seal explicit by these presents. In witness whereof to these presents my seal
11	I have affixed. Given on the twelfth day of February in the year of the reign of King Henry the sixth after the conquest
12	fourth

CP 40/689 (Easter 1433)

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• County: Northamptonshire
• Persons: William Ludsop, Elizabeth Ludsop, Thomas Wodhull, Robert Isham, Thomas Hayton, William Rothewell, John Faukes
• Places: Patteshull (Pattishall)

CP 40/689 (Easter 1433) Legal Case Summary

The plaintiffs in this case are William Ludsop and Elizabeth Ludsop, his wife, who are represented by their attorney, Thomas Compston.

The defendants are Robert Isham, Thomas Hayton, William Rothewell, John Faukes, and "others from Patteshull". Key individuals mentioned in the document are Thomas Wodhull (knight) and Elizabeth, his wife, who is relevant as the dower claim is from the endowment of her former husband, Thomas Wodhull. The place involved is Patteshull (Pattishall, Northamptonshire).

The type of plea is a plea concerning Dower Rights, specifically related to "the third part of the manor of Patteshull with appurtenances". In summary, this is a legal action brought by William and Elizabeth Ludsop against Robert Isham and several other defendants. Elizabeth Ludsop claims the third part of the manor of Patteshull as her dower from the endowment of her former husband, Thomas Wodhull knight, and the Ludsops are pursuing this claim in the King's Court.

Procedurally, the document notes several points. The defendants did not appear in court ("non veniunt"), which is mentioned in relation to a previous court date and summons. There is a reference to an "essoin of Theynim for failure to come," which is a type of excuse for non-appearance, suggesting the defendants had previously attempted to excuse their absence. The text also indicates issues with the summons ("after summons was not made"), suggesting problems in properly notifying the defendants to appear in court. The document mentions "Misericordia (King's Mercy/Fines)," indicating the defendants were in the King's mercy and likely liable to fines for procedural defaults or non-compliance. Finally, a distraint order is issued, commanding the sheriff to "distrain" (seize goods from) the defendants Thomas, William Wothewell (likely Rothewell), and John to compel their appearance or payment.

The significance of this case for Robert Isham's biography is as follows. It reveals Robert Isham's involvement as a defendant in a legal dispute specifically concerning dower rights in 1433, providing more detail about the nature of his legal engagements and land management. Dower was a significant aspect of property law in this period, concerning widows' rights to a portion of their deceased husband's estate. The case concerns a specific property, the manor of Patteshull, and a claim to a third part of it as dower, giving a more concrete context to the legal action. The other defendants named alongside Robert Isham may have been his neighbors, tenants, or associates in the Patteshull area, shedding light on his local network and connections related to this specific manor.

Abbreviated Latin Text

Line	Text
1	North': ¶ Will's ludsop' et Elizabeth ux' eius p' Thomam Compston' attorn' suu' op' se iiij die v'sus Rob'tm Isham
2	et Thomam Hayton' Will'm Rothewell' et Joh'em Ffaukes de t'rcie partis man'ii de Patteshull cum p't'm
3	in Patteshull q'm ip'em Will's ludsop' et Elizabeth in cur' Regis hic cl'm' ut dotem eiusdem Elizabeth
4	de dotac'one Thome Wodhull militis quondam viri sui Et ip'i non ven' etc alias sc' nona
5	de festo hic cras' in Octab' temp'e regis postq'm ess'on' Theynim de malo veniendi versus dictos Will'm ludsop'
6	et Elizabeth de p'dto pl'ito postq'm sum' ne fuit p'ximo p'ced' fuit dies p'ci capit' p'd'tm Thomam Hayton' cum pl'ib's
7	in miseri' d'ni Regis etc Et diem p'c' Et q'a sum' p' bonos sum' p'dcos nobismi' et Thomam' Wothewell' et Joh'em
8	q'o sp'ectabis ad hunc diem vade a die Pasche in quinq' cognau'nt tunc p'ci cogn' Et respondend' p'fatis
9	Will'o ludsop' et Elizabeth tam de p'ncipali pl'ito q'm de p'dco defalta ne Et ideo modo capit' diem tanq'm
10	Et q'a om'i ne q'a om'i op's q'a p'fti Will's ludsop' et Elizabeth p'semp'nt coram curiam ip'ius p'dcos Thomam et
11	Will'm Wothewell' et Joh'em in m'ia q'a non h'nt hic r'cord' suu' Et p'ceptu' est vic' q'd distr' p'dcos Thomam et
12	Will'm Wothewell' et Joh'em in m'ia etc

Expanded Latin Text

Line	Text
1	Northamptonia: ¶ Willelmus ludsop et Elizabeth uxor eius per Thomam Compston attornatum suum optulit se quarto die versus Robertum Isham
2	et Thomam Hayton Willelmum Rothewell et Johannem Ffaukes de tercie partis manerii de Patteshull cum pertinenciis
3	in Patteshull quam ipsem Willelmus ludsop et Elizabeth in curia Regis hic clamant ut dotem eiusdem Elizabeth
4	de dotacione Thome Wodhull militis quondam viri sui Et ipsi non veniunt etc alias scilicet nona
5	de festo hic crastino in Octabis tempore regis postquam essonium Theynim de malo veniendi versus dictos Willelmum ludsop
6	et Elizabeth de predicto placito postquam summonitus ne fuit proximo precedenti fuit dies predicti capitalis predictum Thomam Hayton cum pluribus
7	in misericordia domini Regis etc Et diem predictum Et quia summonitus per bonos summonitos predictos nobismi et Thomam Wothewell et Johannem
8	quo spectabis ad hunc diem vade a die Pasche in quinque cognoverunt tunc predicti cognoverunt Et respondendum prefatis
9	Willelmo ludsop et Elizabeth tam de principali placito quam de predicto defalta ne Et ideo modo capitur diem tanquam
10	Et quia omni ne quia omni opus quia prefati Willelmus ludsop et Elizabeth presempserunt coram curiam ipsius predictos Thomam et
11	Willelmum Wothewell et Johannem in misericordia quia non habent hic recordum suum Et preceptum est vicecomiti quod distringat predictos Thomam et
12	Willelmum Wothewell et Johannem in misericordia etc

English Translation

Line	Text
1	Northamptonshire: William Ludsop and Elizabeth his wife, through Thomas Compston their attorney, presented themselves on the fourth day against Robert Isham
2	and Thomas Hayton, William Rothewell and John Faukes concerning the third part of the manor of Patteshull with appurtenances
3	in Patteshull which the same William Ludsop and Elizabeth claim here in the King's court as dower of the same Elizabeth
4	from the endowment of Thomas Wodhull, knight, formerly her husband. And they have not come etc as before namely the ninth
5	from the feast here on the morrow in the Octaves in the king's time after the essoin of Theynim for failure to come against the said William Ludsop
6	and Elizabeth concerning the aforesaid plea after summons was not made on the next preceding day was the day of the aforesaid capital [plea] the aforesaid Thomas Hayton with others
7	in the mercy of the lord King etc And the aforesaid day And because summoned by good summons the aforesaid to us and Thomas Wothewell and John
8	which you shall look to at this day go from Easter day in five [weeks] they acknowledged then the aforesaid acknowledged And to answer to the aforesaid
9	William Ludsop and Elizabeth both concerning the principal plea and concerning the aforesaid default And therefore now it is taken as a day
10	And because all not because all work because the aforesaid William Ludsop and Elizabeth presented before the court itself the aforesaid Thomas and
11	William Wothewell and John in mercy because they do not have their record here And it is commanded to the sheriff that he should distrain the aforesaid Thomas and
12	William Wothewell and John in mercy etc

CP 25/1/179/94 (1439-1440)

• Medieval Genealogy Abstract
• AALT Image
• County: Northamptonshire.
• Place: Westminster.
• Persons: Robert Isham, Thomas Allington, Margaret Allington
• Places: Parua Bowedon' (Little Bowden)

This document, CP 25/1/179/94 from 1439-1440, records a Final Concord (Latin: finalis concordia), a legal agreement for settling property disputes and transferring land, made in the King's Court at Westminster. The parties are Robert Isham (querent - purchaser/claimant) and Thomas Alyngton' (Allington) (deforciant - seller/releasing party).

The agreement concerns property in Parua Bowedon' (Little Bowden), Northamptonshire: "one messuage, one hundred acres of land, twelve acres of meadow, fourteen acres of pasture, twelve pence of rent, and a rent of twelve capons and one pound of pepper." This property was held for life by Margaret, who was the wife of Thomas Allington. **This refers to Margaret Allington, the widow of a *previous* Thomas Allington (Thomas Allington Sr.), and mother of Thomas Allington (the deforciant in this document, Thomas Allington Jr.).** Margaret is holding this land as her dower, a widow's life estate from her deceased husband, Thomas Allington Sr. It is important to note that while the document refers to "Margaret, who was the wife of Thomas Allington," in the context of Robert Isham's biography, this Margaret is likely *not* Robert Isham's wife, Margarete Allington. Robert Isham's wife Margarete was previously married to a *different* Thomas Allington (Thomas Allington Sr.), and this document likely concerns property related to *that* previous marriage and her dower rights within the Allington family. Therefore, this document likely represents Robert Isham engaging with the broader Allington family network through his marriage to Margarete.

Through this Final Concord, Thomas Allington acknowledged Robert Isham's right to the specified tenements and rent. He granted that upon Margaret's death, the property, which would have reverted to Thomas and his heirs, would instead remain entirely to Robert Isham and his heirs forever. This secured Robert Isham's future ownership after Margaret's lifetime tenancy. Crucially, Thomas Allington and his heirs also provided a warranty for the tenements and rent to Robert and his heirs "against all people forever," strengthening Robert's claim. In exchange for this agreement, Robert Isham paid Thomas Allington 100 marks of silver, a substantial sum representing the price for these future land rights and the associated warranty.

The legal process began in the Octave of St. John the Baptist (July 1, 1439) in the 17th year of Henry VI and concluded in the Octave of Holy Trinity (May 29, 1440) in the 18th year of Henry VI, indicating a legal procedure spanning almost a year. The agreement was formalized before prominent justices of the King's Bench, including John Fortescue, James Strangeways, Richard Newton, Thomas Fulthorp, and William Paston.

In Robert Isham's biography, this Final Concord further illustrates his land acquisition strategies and his connections to the Allington family through his marriage to Margarete:

• Land Acquisition and Financial Investment: Robert Isham strategically used Final Concords to secure future land ownership, demonstrating proactive estate building. The 100 marks of silver payment highlights his financial capacity and willingness to invest significantly in land, reinforcing his status as wealthy gentry.
• Allington Family Network: This transaction, around the time of his marriage to Margarete Allington, likely involves the wider Allington family. "Margaret, wife of Thomas Allington" refers to the widow of Margarete's previous husband (Thomas Allington Sr.), and Thomas Allington (the deforciant) is likely their son (Thomas Allington Jr.). This agreement could be related to managing dower rights and family land holdings within Margarete's family. *[Further genealogical research is recommended to definitively clarify these relationships.]*
• Warranty of Title: The inclusion of a warranty clause in the Final Concord further secured Robert Isham's future land ownership, protecting his investment against potential future claims. This demonstrates his understanding of legal mechanisms to ensure property rights.
• Engagement with Royal Legal System: Participating in a Final Concord in Westminster before King's Bench justices underscores Robert Isham's sophisticated engagement with the central royal legal system and his ability to navigate complex property law procedures.

Abbreviated Latin Text

Line	Text
1	Hec est finalis concordia f'ca in Cur' d'ni Regis apud Westm' in Octab' s'ci Ioh'is Baptiste Anno regnor' henr'
2	Regis Angl' e ffranc' sexti a conquestu decimo septimo coram Ioh'o ffortescu et Jacobo Strang' Regis Justic'
3	passum Ric'o Neuton' et Thoma ffulthorp' Justic' Et postea in Octab' s'ce Trinitatis Anno regnor' eiusdem
4	regis henr' decimo octauo ibi'em concessa et recordata coram p'fatis Ric'o Jacobo Strang' Thoma et Will'o
5	paston' Justic' et aliis d'ni Regis fidelib' tunc ibi p'sentib' Int' Rob'tum Isham quer' et Thomam Alyngton'
6	deforc' de vno mesuagio Centum acris t're duodecim acris prati quatuordecim acris pasture duodecim
7	denaratis redditus et redditu duodecim capon' et vnius libre pip'is cum p'tin' in parua bowdon'
8	que marg'ia que fuit vx' Thome alyngton' tenet ad t'min' vite Vnde pl'itm conuenc'ois sum'
9	fuit int' eos in eadem Cur' Silicet q'd p'dcus Thomas recogn' p'dca ten' et redditum cum p'tin' esse jus ip'ius
10	Rob'ti Et concessit p' se et her' suis q'd p'dca ten' et redditus cum p'tin' que p'dca marg'ia tenet ad t'min'
11	vite de hereditate p'dci Thome in p'dca Villa die quo hec concordia f'ca fuit Et que post decessu' ip'ius
12	marg'ie ad p'dcm Thomam et her' suos debuerunt reuti post decessu' ip'ius marg'ie integre
13	remaneant p'dco Rob'to et her' suis Tenend' de Capit' d'nis feodi illius p' s'uicia que ad p'dca ten'
14	et redditum p'tinent imp'pm Et p'dcus Thomas et her' sui Warant' p'dco Rob'to et her' suis p'dca
15	ten' et redditum cum p'tin' contra om'es ho'ies imp'pm Et p' hac recogn' concessione War' fine et
16	concordia idem Rob'tus dedit p'dco Thome Centum marcas argenti

Expanded Latin Text

Line	Text
1	Hec est finalis concordia facta in Curia domini Regis apud Westmonasterium in Octabis sancti Iohannis Baptiste Anno regnorum henrici
2	Regis Anglie et ffrancie sexti a conquestu decimo septimo coram Iohanne ffortescu et Jacobo Strang' Regis Justiciariis
3	passum Ricardo Neuton' et Thoma ffulthorp' Justiciariis Et postea in Octabis sancte Trinitatis Anno regnorum eiusdem
4	regis henrici decimo octauo ibidem concessa et recordata coram prefatis Ricardo Jacobo Strang' Thoma et Willelmo
5	paston' Justiciariis et aliis domini Regis fidelibus tunc ibi presentibus Inter Robertum Isham querentem et Thomam Alyngton'
6	deforciantem de vno mesuagio Centum acris terre duodecim acris prati quatuordecim acris pasture duodecim
7	denaratis redditus et redditu duodecim caponum et vnius libre piperis cum pertinenciis in parua bowdon'
8	que margareta que fuit uxor Thome alyngton' tenet ad terminum vite Vnde placitum conuencionis summonitum
9	fuit inter eos in eadem Curia Silicet quod predictus Thomas recognovit predicta tenementa et redditum cum pertinenciis esse jus ipsius
10	Roberti Et concessit pro se et heredibus suis quod predicta tenementa et redditus cum pertinenciis que predicta margareta tenet ad terminum
11	vite de hereditate predicti Thome in predicta Villa die quo hec concordia facta fuit Et que post decessum ipsius
12	margarete ad predictum Thomam et heredes suos debuerunt reverti post decessum ipsius margarete integre
13	remaneant predicto Roberto et heredibus suis Tenendum de Capitalibus dominis feodi illius per seruicia que ad predicta tenementa
14	et redditum pertinent imperpetuum Et predictus Thomas et heredes sui Warantizabunt predicto Roberto et heredibus suis predicta
15	tenementa et redditum cum pertinenciis contra omnes homines imperpetuum Et pro hac recognicione concessione Waranto fine et
16	concordia idem Robertus dedit predicto Thome Centum marcas argenti

English Translation

Line	Text
1	This is the final agreement made in the Court of the lord King at Westminster in the Octave of Saint John the Baptist in the year of the reigns of Henry
2	King of England and France, the sixth after the conquest, the seventeenth, before John Fortescue and James Strangeways, Justices of the King,
3	passed Richard Newton and Thomas Fulthorp, Justices. And afterwards in the Octave of Holy Trinity in the year of the reigns of the same
4	King Henry, the eighteenth, there conceded and recorded before the aforementioned Richard, James Strangeways, Thomas, and William
5	Paston, Justices, and other faithful men of the lord King then present there, Between Robert Isham, plaintiff, and Thomas Allington,
6	defendant, concerning one messuage, one hundred acres of land, twelve acres of meadow, fourteen acres of pasture, twelve
7	pence of rent and rent of twelve capons and one pound of pepper with appurtenances in Little Bowden,
8	which Margaret, who was the wife of Thomas Allington, holds for the term of her life. Whereupon a plea of covenant was summoned
9	was between them in the same Court. Namely that the aforesaid Thomas acknowledged the aforesaid tenements and rent with appurtenances to be the right of him,
10	Robert. And he granted for himself and his heirs that the aforesaid tenements and rent with appurtenances which the aforesaid Margaret holds for the term of
11	her life, of the inheritance of the aforesaid Thomas in the aforesaid Vill on the day this agreement was made. And which after the death of her,
12	Margaret, ought to revert to the aforesaid Thomas and his heirs, after the death of her, Margaret, entirely
13	shall remain to the aforesaid Robert and his heirs, To be held of the chief lords of that fee by the services which to the aforesaid tenements
14	and rent pertain forever. And the aforesaid Thomas and his heirs will warrant to the aforesaid Robert and his heirs the aforesaid
15	tenements and rent with appurtenances against all people forever. And for this recognition, grant, warranty, final fine, and
16	agreement, the same Robert gave to the aforesaid Thomas One hundred marks of silver.