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. (1402-1474/75) forged a long and notable public career amidst the turbulent political and economic currents of fifteenth-century England. Born in Pytchley, Northamptonshire, he was the eldest son of Robert Isham Sr., escheator for Northamptonshire, and an unnamed mother. Robert Isham Sr.'s position as escheator, akin to a modern property lawyer administering royal escheats and wardships, was likely gained during the reign of Richard II, reflecting his status as landowning gentry. He continued in this role into the early years of Henry IV's rule.

Growing up in Northamptonshire, Robert Jr. would have witnessed firsthand his father managing estates and fulfilling his royal duties. As the heir, Robert likely received informal training in these areas, preparing him for future responsibilities. His formative years coincided with a period of significant instability – the ongoing Hundred Years' War and the perceived weakness of Henry VI's government. The Isham family, deriving income from land rentals and local administration, also likely had connections to Northamptonshire's vital wool trade, a sector that would later benefit Robert Jr. The post-Black Death economic shifts, contributing to the burgeoning Renaissance, presented opportunities for families like the Ishams to advance.

Upon his father's death in March 1424, Robert Jr. inherited a substantial 315-acre estate, generating a considerable annual income of £2 16s 7d. In 1426, he married Elizabeth de Knuston, a widow, and they had a son, William Isham Esquire of Pytchley, in 1427. Following Elizabeth's death in 1431, Robert remarried to Margarete Allington, another widow. This union significantly expanded his land holdings in Northamptonshire. Between 1433 and 1436, Robert served on three commissions of the peace, demonstrating his early involvement in local governance. He also actively pursued legal matters, such as a debt recovery case against a farmer, reflecting his engagement with the local legal system. Like other landowners, he leased land to tenant farmers, and the Isham family continued their pattern of strategic marriages to enhance their economic standing.

Robert’s public career began in earnest on 28 November 1439, with his first recorded participation in a commission of the peace, attended by Henry VI himself. These commissions were vital regional governance meetings, and Robert's inclusion signaled his growing local influence and provided opportunities to interact with powerful figures. In 1440, he participated in the division of lands belonging to John, Earl of Somerset, further expanding his land interests. By this time, he held the rank of esquire, indicative of his land ownership and governmental roles. He continued to serve on Northamptonshire commissions of the peace in 1441.

These activities demonstrate Robert’s developing expertise in property law and court procedures. In 1443, he resolved a dispute with the Allington family concerning Thomas Allington’s will, securing land and income rights through his marriage to Margarete. In 1450, he became a feoffee for the lands of Elizabeth and Richard Lestrange, further increasing his Northamptonshire holdings. The unrest of Jack Cade’s Rebellion in July 1450, fueled by discontent over the Hundred Years' War and perceived government corruption, would have been of significant interest to a landowner like Robert, likely shaping his views on the growing political instability that would lead to the Wars of the Roses.

A pivotal moment in Robert's career came on 4 December 1454, when he attended a Commission of the Peace in Westminster, alongside Richard, Duke of York, and Henry VI. This Westminster meeting occurred during a period of intense national tension, following Henry VI’s mental breakdown in 1453. This commission, one of the last before Henry's partial recovery, may have allowed Robert to observe the King’s fragile state and begin forging connections with the ascendant Yorkist faction.

Following the Battle of St. Albans in May 1455, Robert Isham’s Yorkist affiliations became more apparent. By October 1455, he was a beneficiary in a land transaction with Edward and Elizabeth Grey, prominent Yorkists, for a substantial 1000 marks of silver. This agreement likely granted him access to Grey lands in Northamptonshire. The Grey family, which included Elizabeth Woodville, the future Queen consort of Edward IV, became a key connection. In 1457, Robert was commissioned alongside Yorkist nobles like Richard Duke of York and the Greys to recruit archers for a military buildup, reflecting his growing integration into Yorkist networks.

While records are sparse for the next three years, Robert’s involvement in transferring prisoners in Northampton in February 1460 confirms his continued local importance among the Northamptonshire gentry, alongside figures like Sir William Catesby and Sir William Lucy. The year 1460 was a turning point, with growing pressure on Yorkist gentry due to Queen Margaret’s actions. The Battle of Northampton in July 1460 occurred near Robert’s lands. Though direct participation at age 58 was unlikely, he would have been aware of Lord Grey of Ruthin’s pivotal betrayal and the Yorkist victory. His Yorkist connections, particularly to the Grey family, likely positioned him to benefit from the shift in power.

Edward IV’s ascension in 1461 marked a significant advancement in Robert Isham’s career. In 1466, he received land grants in Northamptonshire, possibly as a reward for Yorkist loyalty, through Anne of York. In 1468, royal favor culminated in his appointment as “controller of the great custom and the subsidy of wools, hides, and wool-felts in the port of London”, a prestigious and economically vital position. This appointment in London, a major economic center, placed him at the heart of England's crucial wool trade during a period of economic recovery. He oversaw the export of vast quantities of wool. For a period in 1469, he also served as a “sergeant-at-law”, a temporary law enforcement role possibly related to unrest. While replaced as port controller in November 1469, his tenure was notable for its length and coincided with improved wool exports. Adding to his significant roles, records indicate Robert Isham also served as a solicitor for Queen Elizabeth Woodville, Edward IV's consort, demonstrating the trust placed in his legal expertise at the highest levels of the English court.

As the Wars of the Roses resumed, Robert attended commissions in 1470 and 1472 under Edward IV, remaining active in governance even amidst upheaval. In 1473, at the age of 71, he attended his last recorded commission of the peace, marking 15 commissions over 34 years of service. He concluded his documented political appointments with a tax audit commission in August 1473.

Robert Isham died in late 1474 or early 1475 at 73, buried in Pytchley. His widow and sons inherited his estate. His life exemplifies how individuals could navigate and even thrive during the volatile fifteenth century through diligence, strategic choices, and legal acumen. His Yorkist alignment demonstrably benefited his career and family. From local gentry to royal commissioner, port controller, and trusted solicitor to the Queen, Robert Isham's long and productive life deserves recognition as a significant figure within the tumultuous landscape of the Wars of the Roses.

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)

WAALT Page AALT Image 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 figure connected to the family 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)

• WAALT Index Page
• Image at AALT
• 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 40/717 (Hilary 1439)

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• AALT Image
• County: Northamptonshire
• Persons: Robert Isham, Thomas Ames
• Places: Irchester

CP 40/717 (Hilary Term 1439) Legal Case Summary and Biographical Significance

This document, CP 40/717 from Hilary Term 1439, records a plea of trespass brought by Robert Isham against Thomas Ames of Irchester, chaplain. Robert Isham appears in court in person to lodge his complaint.

The plea is a plea of trespass (quare vi et armis), indicating a forceful and unlawful action. Robert Isham accuses Thomas Ames of taking his goods and chattels to the value of forty shillings at Irchester. Furthermore, the plea specifies that Thomas Ames, with force and arms, assaulted Robert Isham's men and servants, beat, wounded, and mistreated them. As a result of this trespass, Robert Isham claims to have lost the service of his servants for a significant time and suffered other grave damages. The action is described as being "against the peace" (contra pacem), indicating a violation of public order.

Procedurally, the document notes that the defendant, Thomas Ames, did not appear in court ("et ipse non venit"). A writ of attachment was issued to the sheriff to compel Ames' appearance, but the sheriff reported that Ames was not found ("non est inventus"). Therefore, the court issues a writ of capias to the sheriff, ordering him to arrest Thomas Ames if he can be found in his jurisdiction (bailiwick).

The biographical significance of this case for Robert Isham is as follows:

• Assertion of Rights and Property: This document shows Robert Isham actively using the legal system to protect his property and assert his rights. The plea of trespass for goods and chattels indicates his concern for his economic interests and possessions.
• Landowner and Employer Status: The mention of "men and servants" of Robert Isham who were assaulted underscores his position as a landowner and employer in Northamptonshire. It highlights his social status and the network of people dependent on him.
• Local Disputes and Legal Recourse: The case reveals potential local disputes between Robert Isham and individuals in his community, in this instance, a chaplain from Irchester. It demonstrates that Robert Isham was willing to pursue legal recourse through the Common Pleas court at Westminster to resolve such conflicts.
• "Vi et Armis" and Gentry Authority: The use of "quare vi et armis" (with force and arms) in the plea is notable. While it's a legal formula, it suggests a potentially serious or forceful nature to the alleged trespass, and it emphasizes Robert Isham's expectation of legal protection for himself, his property, and his household.
• Early Legal Actions: Dating from Hilary Term 1439, this document is relatively early in Robert Isham's documented public career, predating his known commissions of the peace. It shows his engagement with the legal system from a relatively young age (around age 37), further supporting the biography's portrayal of him as someone familiar with and active in legal matters.

Abbreviated Latin Text

Line	Text
1	Rob'tus Isham in p'pria p'sona sua op' se iiijto die v'sus Thomam Ames de Irnechestre in com' p'd'o cap'llm de
2	pl'ito quare vi et armis bona + catalla ip'ius Rob'ti ad valenc' quadraginta solidorum apud Irnechestre inuenta
3	cepit + asportau't + in homines + servientes eiusdem insultum fec't + ip'os v'b'au't vuln'au't + male tractau't
4	p' quod id'm Rob'tus s'uicm s'uientm suor' p' magnu' tempus amisit + alia enormia ei ad g'ue dampnu' etc' et
5	cont' pacem etc' et ip'e non ven' et p'c' fuit vic' qd' attach' eum etc' + vic' modo mand' qd' non est inuentus etc' Ideo
6	text unclear

Expanded Latin Text

Line	Text
1	Robertus Isham in propria persona sua optulit se quarto die versus Thomam Ames de Irnechestre in comitatu predicto capellanum de
2	placito quare vi et armis bona et catalla ipsius Roberti ad valenciam quadraginta solidorum apud Irnechestre inventa
3	cepit et asportavit et in homines et servientes eiusdem insultum fecit et ipsos verberavit vulneravit et male tractavit
4	per quod idem Robertus servicium servientum suorum per magnum tempus amisit et alia enormia ei ad grave dampnum etc et
5	contra pacem etc et ipse non venit et preceptum fuit vicecomiti quod attachiandum eum etc et vicecomes modo mandat quod non est inventus etc Ideo
6	text unclear

English Translation

Line	Text
1	Robert Isham in his own person presented himself on the fourth day against Thomas Ames of Irchester in the aforesaid county, chaplain, concerning a
2	plea why with force and arms goods and chattels of him Robert to the value of forty shillings found at Irchester
3	he took and carried away and upon the men and servants of the same made assault and them beat wounded and mistreated
4	whereby the same Robert the service of his servants for a long time lost and other outrages [happened] to his grave damage etc and
5	against the peace etc and he did not come and it was commanded to the sheriff that he attach him etc and the sheriff now sends word that he is not found etc Therefore
6	text unclear

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.

CP 25/1/179/95 (1450)

• Medieval Genealogy Abstract
• Image of document at AALT
• County: Northamptonshire
• Place: Westminster
• Date: The day after St Martin, 29 Henry VI [12 November 1450]
• Parties: Robert Isham, William Benet (clerk), John Knyght (chaplain), and William Broghton' (querents) and Thomas Seyton' (esquire) and Joan, his wife (deforciants)
• Property: 1 messuage, 100 acres of land, 10 acres of meadow, 6 acres of pasture and 3 shillings of rent in Little Bowden.
• Action: Plea of covenant
• Agreement: Thomas and Joan Seyton acknowledged the tenements to be the right of John Knyght, as those which John Knyght, Robert Isham, William Benet, and William Broughton have of their gift. Thomas and Joan Seyton remised and quitclaimed them from themselves and the heirs of Joan to Robert Isham, William Benet, John Knyght, and William Broughton and the heirs of John Knyght forever.
• Warranty: Yes (Warranty by Thomas and Joan Seyton and Joan's heirs)
• For this: Robert Isham, William Benet, John Knyght, and William Broughton have given them 40 pounds sterling.

CP 25/1/179/95 (1450) Legal Case Summary

This document, CP 25/1/179/95 from 1450, is another Final Concord concerning land in Little Bowden, Northamptonshire. The querents are Robert Isham, William Benet (clerk), John Knyght (chaplain), and William Broughton. The deforciants are Thomas Seyton, esquire, and his wife, Joan.

The agreement concerns property described as "one messuage, 100 acres of land, 10 acres of meadow, 6 acres of pasture and 3 shillings of rent in Little Bowden." Thomas and Joan Seyton acknowledge that these tenements are the right of John Knyght, based on a gift from the Seytons to the group of querents. The Seytons formally quitclaim any rights to the property, ensuring that John Knyght, Robert Isham, and the other querents, along with John Knyght's heirs, will hold the properties permanently. A warranty from Thomas and Joan Seyton and Joan's heirs is included, guaranteeing the title against future claims. In return, the querents paid Thomas and Joan Seyton 40 pounds sterling.

This document, dated 1450, further illustrates Robert Isham's continued involvement in land transactions. Here, he is part of a group acquiring property, with John Knyght appearing to be the primary recipient in terms of legal title according to this record. The presence of a clerk and a chaplain in the group of querents suggests a network that may extend beyond purely landowning gentry. The transaction price of 40 pounds sterling indicates a significant, though not massive, property transfer.

Abbreviated Latin Text

Line	Text
1	Northt': ¶ Hec est finalis concordia f'ca in Cur' d'ni Regis apud Westm' in c'stino s'ci m'rtini
2	Anno regni henr' Regis Angl' et ffranc' sexto a conquestu vicesimo nono coram
3	Joh'e Prysot thoma ffulthorp Will'o Yelverton Joh'e Portyngton et Nich'o Aysshetoñ
4	Justic' et aliis d'ni Regis fidelib' tunc ibi p'sentib' Int' Rob'tum Isam Will'm
5	Benet cl'icum Joh'em knyght capellañ et Will'm Broghtoñ quer' et thomam Seytoñ
6	Armi'g'm et Joh'am ux'em eius deforc' de uno mesuagio Centum acr' t're decem acr' p'ti
7	sex acr' pasture et trib' solidat' reddit' cum p'tin in parua Boudon'
8	vnde pl'm conuenc'ois sum' fuit int' eos in eadem Cur' Scil't q'd p'd'ci
9	thomas et Joh'na recogn' p'd'ca ten' cum p'tin esse ius ip'ius Joh'is vt
10	illa que ijdem Joh'es Rob'tus Will's et Will's h'ent de dono p'd'cor' thome
11	et Joh'ne Et illa remiserunt et quiet'clam' de ip'is thoma et Joh'na et
12	her' ip'ius Joh'ne p'd'cis Rob'to Will'o Joh'i et Will'o et her' ip'ius Joh'is
13	imp'p'm Et p't'ea ijdem thomas et Joh'na concesserunt p' se et her' ip'ius
14	Joh'ne q'd ip'i Warant' p'd'cis Rob'to Will'o Joh'i et Will'o et her'
15	ip'ius Joh'is p'd'ca ten' cum p'tin cont' om'es ho'i'es imp'p'm Et p' hac
16	recognic'one remissione quiet'clam' Warant' fine et concordia ijdem Rob'tus Will's Joh'es et
17	Will's dederunt p'd'cis thome et Joh'ne quadraginta libras sterlingor'
18	¶ Endorsed: exec' p' p'clam' s'cdm form' statuti

Expanded Latin Text

Line	Text
1	Northamptonia: ¶ Hec est finalis concordia facta in Curia domini Regis apud Westmonasterium in crastino sancti martini
2	Anno regni henrici Regis Anglie et ffrancie sexto a conquestu vicesimo nono coram
3	Johanne Prysot thoma ffulthorp Willelmo Yelverton Johanne Portyngton et Nicholao Aysshetone
4	Justiciariis et aliis domini Regis fidelibus tunc ibi presentibus Inter Robertum Isam Willelmum
5	Benet clericum Johannem knyght capellanum et Willelmum Broghton querentes et thomam Seyton
6	Armigerum et Johannam uxorem eius deforciantes de uno mesuagio Centum acris terre decem acris prati
7	sex acris pasture et tribus solidatis redditus cum pertinenciis in parua Boudone
8	vnde placitum conuencionis summonitum fuit inter eos in eadem Curia Scilicet quod predicti
9	thomas et Johanna recognoverunt predicta tenementa cum pertinenciis esse ius ipsius Johannis ut
10	illa que iidem Johannes Robertus Willelmus et Willelmus habent de dono predictorum thome
11	et Johanne Et illa remiserunt et quietclamaverunt de ipsis thoma et Johanna et
12	heredibus ipsius Johanne predictis Roberto Willelmo Johanni et Willelmo et heredibus ipsius Johannis
13	imperpetuum Et preterea iidem thomas et Johanna concesserunt pro se et heredibus ipsius
14	Johanne quod ipsi Warantizabunt predictis Roberto Willelmo Johanni et Willelmo et heredibus
15	ipsius Johannis predicta tenementa cum pertinenciis contra omnes homines imperpetuum Et pro hac
16	recognicione remissione quietclamacione Warantia fine et concordia iidem Robertus Willelmus Johannes et
17	Willelmus dederunt predictis thome et Johanne quadraginta libras sterlingorum
18	¶ Endorsed: execucio per proclamacionem secundum formam statuti

English Translation

Line	Text
1	Northamptonshire: ¶ This is the final agreement made in the Court of the lord King at Westminster on the morrow of Saint Martin
2	In the year of the reign of King Henry of England and France, the sixth after the conquest, the twenty-ninth before
3	John Prysot Thomas Fulthorpe William Yelverton John Portyngton and Nicholas Aysshetone
4	Justices and other faithful men of the lord King then there present Between Robert Isam William
5	Benet clerk John Knyght chaplain and William Broghton plaintiffs and Thomas Seyton
6	Esquire and Joan his wife defendants concerning one messuage One hundred acres of land ten acres of meadow
7	six acres of pasture and three shillings of rent with appurtenances in Little Bowden
8	Whereupon a plea of covenant was summoned was between them in the same Court Namely that the aforesaid
9	Thomas and Joan acknowledged the aforesaid tenements with appurtenances to be the right of him John as
10	those which the same John Robert William and William have of the gift of the aforesaid Thomas
11	and Joan And they have remised and quitclaimed them from themselves Thomas and Joan and
12	the heirs of her Joan to the aforesaid Robert William John and William and to the heirs of him John
13	forever And moreover the same Thomas and Joan granted for themselves and the heirs of her
14	Joan that they will warrant to the aforesaid Robert William John and William and to the heirs
15	of him John the aforesaid tenements with appurtenances against all people forever And for this
16	recognition remission quitclaim Warranty fine and agreement the same Robert William John and
17	William gave to the aforesaid Thomas and Joan forty pounds sterling
18	¶ Endorsed: execution by proclamation according to the form of the statute

CP 25/1/293/72 (1455)

• Medieval Genealogy Abstract
• AALT Image
• County: Northamptonshire, Essex
• Place: Westminster
• Date: One month from Michaelmas, 34 Henry VI [27 October 1455]
• Parties: William Walesby (clerk), Thomas Fynderne (knight), Thomas Boughton, William Boudon, William Fyldyng, and Robert Isham (querents) and Edward Grey (knight) and Elizabeth, his wife (deforciants)
• Property: The manors of Newbottle and Brington in Northamptonshire and the manor of Woodham Ferrers in Essex.
• Action: Plea of covenant
• Agreement: Edward and Elizabeth Grey acknowledged the manors to be the right of William Walesby, as those which William Walesby, Thomas Fynderne, Thomas Boughton, William Boudon, William Fyldyng, and Robert Isham have of their gift. Edward and Elizabeth Grey remised and quitclaimed the manors from themselves and Elizabeth's heirs to William Walesby, Thomas Fynderne, Thomas Boughton, William Boudon, William Fyldyng, Robert Isham, and William Walesby's heirs forever.
• Warranty: Yes (Warranty by Edward and Elizabeth Grey and Elizabeth's heirs)
• For this: William Walesby, Thomas Fynderne, Thomas Boughton, William Boudon, William Fyldyng, and Robert Isham gave Edward and Elizabeth Grey 1000 marks of silver.

CP 25/1/293/72 (1455) Legal Case Summary

This document, CP 25/1/293/72 from 1455, records a Final Concord concerning land in Northamptonshire and Essex. The querents are a group of individuals: William Walesby (clerk), Thomas Fynderne (knight), Thomas Boughton, William Boudon, William Fyldyng, and Robert Isham. The deforciants are Sir Edward Grey and his wife, Elizabeth.

The agreement involves the transfer of ownership of the manors of Newbottle and Brington in Northamptonshire, and the manor of Woodham Ferrers in Essex. Edward and Elizabeth Grey acknowledge that these manors are the right of William Walesby, based on a gift from the Greys to the group of querents. The Greys formally quitclaim any rights to the manors, ensuring that William Walesby and the other querents, along with Walesby's heirs, will hold the properties permanently. The agreement includes a warranty from Edward and Elizabeth Grey and Elizabeth's heirs, further securing the title for the new owners against future claims. In return for this transaction, the querents paid Edward and Elizabeth Grey a substantial sum of 1000 marks of silver.

This Final Concord demonstrates a significant land transaction involving Robert Isham alongside other notable individuals like William Walesby and Thomas Fynderne, and with prominent figures like Edward Grey and Elizabeth Grey (likely Elizabeth Woodville's family). It highlights Robert Isham's involvement in larger property deals and his connections with influential families during this period, specifically in 1455, around the time of his emerging Yorkist affiliations.

Abbreviated Latin Text

Line	Text
1	Hec est finalis concordia fc'a in cur' d'ni Regis apud Westm' a die sc'i Mich'is in vnu'
2	mensem Anno regni Henrici sexti post conquestu' tricesimo
3	quarto coram Joh'e Prysot Thoma ffulthorpe Joh'o Moyle et Petro Arderne Justic'
4	d'ni Regis et aliis d'ni Regis fidelib' tunc ibi
5	p'sentib' Int' Will'm Walesby cl'icum Thomam ffynderne militem Thomam
6	Boughton' Will'm Boudon' Will'm ffyldyng' et Rob'tum Iseham quer' et Edwardum
7	Grey militem et Elizabeth' vx'em eius deforc' de man'iis de Newbotell' et Bryngton'
8	cum p'tin in com' North't et de man'io de Wodham fferrers cu' p'tin in com' Essex'
9	vnde pl'itm conuenc'ois sum' fuit int' eos in eadem cur' Scil' q'd p'd'ci Edwardus
10	et Elizabeth' recogn' p'd'ca man'ia cum p'tin esse ius ip'ius Will'i Walesby vt illa
11	que ijdem Will's Thomas Thomas Will's Boudon' Will's ffyldyng' et Rob'tus h'ent
12	de dono p'd'cor' Edwardi et Elizabeth' Et illa remiserunt et quiet'clam' de ip'is
13	Edwardo et Elizabeth' et her' ip'ius Elizabeth' p'd'co Will'o Thome Thome Will'o
14	Will'o et Rob'to et her' ip'ius Will'i Walesby imp'pm Et p'tea ijdem Edwardus et
15	Elizabeth' concesserunt p' se et her' ip'ius Elizabeth' q'd ip'i Warant' p'd'cis Will'o
16	Thome Thome Will'o Will'o et Rob'to et her' ip'ius Will'i Walesby p'd'ca man'ia
17	cum p'tin cont' om'es ho'ies imp'pm Et p' hac recogn' remissione quiet'clam'
18	War' fine et concordia ijdem Will's Thomas Thomas Will's Will's et Rob'tus
19	dederunt p'd'cis Edwardo et Elizabeth' mille marcas argenti

Expanded Latin Text

Line	Text
1	Hec est finalis concordia facta in curia domini Regis apud Westmonasterium a die sancti Michaelis in unum
2	mensem Anno regni Henrici sexti post conquestum tricesimo
3	quarto coram Johanne Prysot Thoma Fulthorpe Johanne Moyle et Petro Arderne Justiciariis
4	domini Regis et aliis domini Regis fidelibus tunc ibi
5	presentibus Inter Willelmum Walesby clericum Thomam Fynderne militem Thomam
6	Boughton Willelmum Boudon Willelmum Fyldyng et Robertum Iseham querentes et Edwardum
7	Grey militem et Elizabetham uxorem eius deforciantes de maneriis de Newbotell et Bryngton
8	cum pertinenciis in comitatu Northamptonie et de manerio de Wodham Ferrers cum pertinenciis in comitatu Essex
9	unde placitum convencionis summonitum fuit inter eos in eadem curia Scilicet quod predicti Edwardus
10	et Elizabeth recognoverunt predicta maneria cum pertinenciis esse ius ipsius Willelmi Walesby ut illa
11	que iidem Willelmus Thomas Thomas Willelmus Boudon Willelmus Fyldyng et Robertus habent
12	de dono predictorum Edwardi et Elizabeth Et illa remiserunt et quietclamaverunt de ipsis
13	Edwardo et Elizabeth et heredibus ipsius Elizabeth predicto Willelmo Thome Thome Willelmo
14	Willelmo et Roberto et heredibus ipsius Willelmi Walesby imperpetuum Et preterea iidem Edwardus et
15	Elizabeth concesserunt pro se et heredibus ipsius Elizabeth quod ipsi Warantizabunt predictis Willelmo
16	Thome Thome Willelmo Willelmo et Roberto et heredibus ipsius Willelmi Walesby predicta maneria
17	cum pertinenciis contra omnes homines imperpetuum Et pro hac recognicione remissione quietclamacione
18	Warantia fine et concordia iidem Willelmus Thomas Thomas Willelmus Willelmus et Robertus
19	dederunt predictis Edwardo et Elizabeth mille marcas argenti

English Translation

Line	Text
1	This is the final agreement made in the court of the lord King at Westminster from the day of Saint Michael in one
2	month In the year of the reign of King Henry the sixth after the conquest thirty
3	fourth before John Prysot Thomas Fulthorpe John Moyle and Peter Arderne Justices
4	of the lord King and other faithful men of the lord King then there
5	present Between William Walesby clerk Thomas Fynderne knight Thomas
6	Boughton William Boudon William Fyldyng and Robert Isham plaintiffs and Edward
7	Grey knight and Elizabeth his wife defendants concerning the manors of Newbottle and Brington
8	with appurtenances in the county of Northampton and concerning the manor of Woodham Ferrers with appurtenances in the county of Essex
9	whereof a plea of covenant was summoned was between them in the same court Namely that the aforesaid Edward
10	and Elizabeth acknowledged the aforesaid manors with appurtenances to be the right of him William Walesby as those
11	which the same William Thomas Thomas William Boudon William Fyldyng and Robert have
12	of the gift of the aforesaid Edward and Elizabeth And they have remised and quitclaimed them from themselves
13	Edward and Elizabeth and the heirs of her Elizabeth to the aforesaid William Thomas Thomas William
14	William and Robert and to the heirs of him William Walesby forever And moreover the same Edward and
15	Elizabeth granted for themselves and the heirs of her Elizabeth that they will warrant to the aforesaid William
16	Thomas Thomas William William and Robert and to the heirs of him William Walesby the aforesaid manors
17	with appurtenances against all people forever And for this recognition remission quitclaim
18	warranty fine and agreement the same William Thomas Thomas William William and Robert
19	gave to the aforesaid Edward and Elizabeth one thousand marks of silver

CP 25/1/179/95 (1456 - Number 140)

• Medieval Genealogy Abstract for Number 140
• AALT Image for Number 140
• County: Northamptonshire
• Place: Westminster
• Date: One month from Easter, 34 Henry VI [25 April 1456]. And afterwards one week from Holy Trinity in the same year [30 May 1456].
• Parties: Robert Isham, John Knyght', chaplain, and William Broughton', querents, and John Watford' and Elizabeth, his wife, deforciants.
• Property: The manor of Walgraue called Braunspathlond' and 1 messuage, 1 and a half virgates of land and 16 shillings of rent and a rent of 4 capons in Walgraue.
• Action: Plea of covenant
• Agreement: John Watford' and Elizabeth have acknowledged the manor, tenements and rent to be the right of John Knyght', as those which the same John, Robert and William have of their gift, and have remised and quitclaimed them from themselves and the heirs of Elizabeth to Robert, John Knyght' and William and the heirs of John for ever.
• Warranty: Yes (Warranty against Edmund, the abbot of Westminster, and his successors).
• For this: Robert, John Knyght' and William have given them 20 pounds sterling.

CP 25/1/179/95 (1456 - Number 140) Legal Case Summary and Biographical Significance

This document, CP 25/1/179/95 (number 140) from 1456, is a Final Concord providing insight into Robert Isham's landowning activities in Walgrave, Northamptonshire. As a querent, Robert Isham, along with John Knyght (chaplain) and William Broughton, is acquiring property. The property is described as "The manor of Walgraue called Braunspathlond' and 1 messuage, 1 and a half virgates of land and 16 shillings of rent and a rent of 4 capons in Walgraue," indicating a substantial landholding. While the legal right is conveyed to John Knyght, Robert Isham's inclusion as a querent signifies his active role and shared interest in this acquisition.

The presence of John Knyght, a chaplain, and William Broughton alongside Robert Isham continues to demonstrate his associations beyond the typical gentry class, extending to ecclesiastical figures like chaplains. This network might reflect diverse skills and connections utilized in land management and legal transactions. The transaction amount of 20 pounds sterling represents a significant investment for the time. The warranty clause specifically against Edmund, the abbot of Westminster, and his successors is a notable detail, suggesting a pre-existing claim or relationship of Westminster Abbey to this land, and highlighting the carefulness of securing clear title. This document, dated 1456, places Robert Isham’s land transactions within the context of the mid-1450s, a period of increasing political instability in England. His continued property acquisition demonstrates the economic activities of the gentry during this turbulent time. This document highlights Robert Isham as an active participant in the land market, strategically acquiring property in Northamptonshire and engaging with a network of individuals in these transactions.

Abbreviated Latin Text

Line	Text
1	Hec est finalis concordia fc'a in Cur' d'ni Regis apud Westm' a die Pasche in vnu'
2	mensem Anno regni regis henrici sexti post conquestu' tricesimo quarto coram Joh'e Prysot Thoma ffulthorpe
3	Nich'o Aysheton' et Petro Arderne Justic' et aliis d'ni Regis fidelib' tunc ibi p'sentib' Et postea in octabis s'ce
4	Trinitatis Anno regni d'ci d'ni Regis henrici sexti ibm' concessa et recordata coram eisdem
5	Justic' et aliis d'ni Regis fidelib' tunc ibi p'sentib' Int' Rob'tum Isham et Joh'em knyght
6	capellanu' et Will'm Broughton' quer' et Joh'em Watford et Elizabeth'
7	vocat' Braunspathlond' cum p'tin' Ac de vno mesuagio vna virgata t're et dimid' et sexdecim solidatis
8	redditus et redditu' quatuor caponu' cum p'tin' in Walgraue vnde pl'itm conuenc'ois sum' fuit int' eos in eadem Cur'
9	Scil't q'd p'd'ci Joh'es Watford et Elizabeth' recogn' p'd'ca man'iu' ten' et redditu' cum p'tin' esse
10	jus ipsius Joh'is knyght vt illa que iidem Joh'es knyght Rob'tus et Will's h'ent de dono
11	p'd'cor' Joh'is Watford et Elizabeth' Et illa remiserunt et quietuclam' de se et her'
12	ip'ius Elizabeth' p'd'cis Rob'to Joh'i knyght et Will'o et her' ip'ius Joh'is imp'pm Et p'terea
13	ijdem Joh'es Watford et Elizabeth' concesserunt p' se et her' ip'ius Elizabeth' q'd ip'i Warant'
14	p'd'ca man'iu' ten' et redditu' cum p'tin' cont' Edm' Abb'em Westm' et successores
15	suos imp'pm Et p' hac recognic'one remissione quiet' clam' warant'
16	fine et concordia ijdem Rob'tus Joh'es knyght et Will's
17	dederunt p'd'cis Joh'i Watford et Elizabeth' viginti libras sterlingor'
18

Expanded Latin Text

Line	Text
1	Hec est finalis concordia facta in Curia domini Regis apud Westmonasterium a die Pasche in unum
2	mensem Anno regni regis henrici sexti post conquestum tricesimo quarto coram Johanne Prysot Thoma ffulthorpe
3	Nicholao Aysheton' et Petro Arderne Justiciariis et aliis domini Regis fidelibus tunc ibi presentibus Et postea in octabis sancte
4	Trinitatis Anno regni dicti domini Regis henrici sexti ibidem concessa et recordata coram eisdem
5	Justiciariis et aliis domini Regis fidelibus tunc ibi presentibus Inter Robertum Isham et Johannem knyght
6	capellanum et Willelmum Broughton' querentes et Johannem Watford et Elizabetham
7	vocato Braunspathlond' cum pertinenciis Ac de uno mesuagio una virgata terre et dimidia et sexdecim solidatis
8	redditus et redditu quatuor caponum cum pertinenciis in Walgraue unde placitum convencionis summonitum fuit inter eos in eadem Curia
9	Scilicet quod predicti Johannes Watford et Elizabeth recognoverunt predicta manerium tenementa et redditum cum pertinenciis esse
10	jus ipsius Johannis knyght ut illa que iidem Johannes knyght Robertus et Willelmus habent de dono
11	predictorum Johannis Watford et Elizabeth Et illa remiserunt et quietuclamaverunt de se et heredibus
12	ipsius Elizabeth predictis Roberto Johanni knyght et Willelmo et heredibus ipsius Johannis imperpetuum Et preterea
13	iidem Johannes Watford et Elizabeth concesserunt pro se et heredibus ipsius Elizabeth quod ipsi Warantizabunt
14	predicta manerium tenementa et redditum cum pertinenciis contra Edmundum Abbatem Westmonasterii et successores
15	suos imperpetuum Et pro hac recognicione remissione quieta clamacione warantizacione
16	fine et concordia iidem Robertus Johannes knyght et Willelmus
17	dederunt predictis Johanni Watford et Elizabeth viginti libras sterlingorum
18

English Translation

Line	Text
1	This is the final agreement made in the Court of the lord King at Westminster from the day of Easter in one
2	month In the year of the reign of King Henry the sixth after the conquest thirty-fourth before John Prysot Thomas Fulthorpe
3	Nicholas Aysheton' and Peter Arderne Justices and other faithful men of the lord King then there present And afterwards in the octaves of holy
4	Trinity In the year of the reign of the said lord King Henry the sixth there conceded and recorded before the same
5	Justices and other faithful men of the lord King then there present Between Robert Isham and John Knyght
6	chaplain and William Broughton plaintiffs and John Watford and Elizabeth
7	called Braunspathlond' with appurtenances And concerning one messuage one virgate of land and a half and sixteen shillings
8	of rent and rent of four capons with appurtenances in Walgrave whereof a plea of covenant was summoned was between them in the same Court
9	Namely that the aforesaid John Watford and Elizabeth acknowledged the aforesaid manor, tenements, and rent with appurtenances to be
10	the right of him, John Knyght, as those which the same John Knyght, Robert, and William have of the gift
11	of the aforesaid John Watford and Elizabeth And they have remised and quitclaimed them from themselves and the heirs
12	of her Elizabeth to the aforesaid Robert, John Knyght, and William and to the heirs of him John forever And moreover
13	the same John Watford and Elizabeth granted for themselves and the heirs of her Elizabeth that they will warrant
14	the aforesaid manor, tenements, and rent with appurtenances against Edmund, Abbot of Westminster, and his successors
15	forever And for this recognition, remise, quitclaim, and warranty
16	fine and agreement the same Robert, John Knyght, and William
17	gave to the aforesaid John Watford and Elizabeth twenty pounds sterling
18

CP 40/853 (Hilary 1475)

• WAALT Index Page
• Image at AALT
• County: Northamptonshire
• Persons: Margaret Isham (widow), Robert Isham (clerk, son), William Isham (son), Richard Isham (son), John Isham (son), John Leycetur
• Places: Northampton

Thank you to Vance Mead for identifying this case.

CP 40/853 (Hilary 1475) Legal Case Summary

This document, CP 40/853 from Hilary Term 1475, records a legal action for debt. The plaintiffs are Margaret, who was the wife of Robert Isham, senior, along with their sons, Robert Isham (clerk), William Isham, Richard Isham, and John Isham. They are acting through their attorney.

The defendant is John Leycetur of Northampton, apothecary. The plea is a plea of debt, specifically for sixty-three shillings that the plaintiffs claim John Leycetur unjustly withholds ("quos eis iniuste detinet").

Procedurally, the document notes that the defendant did not appear in court ("Et ip'e non ven'"). He had been given a day in court via essoin (excuse for absence), but he failed to appear even after being summoned ("Et diem p' ess' suos hic ad hunc diem postq'm sum' etc."). Therefore, the court issues a mandate to the sheriff ("m'do m'dr' vic'") to attach (arrest or secure the appearance of) the defendant John Leycetur in the aforementioned plea. He is ordered to appear in court fifteen days after Easter ("a die Pasche in .xv. dies").

The dating of this document to Hilary Term 1475 (January-February 1475) indicates that Robert Isham Sr. died before this term, likely in 1474 or very early 1475, as his widow Margaret is acting as a plaintiff in this case.

The significance of this case for Robert Isham's biography, occurring shortly after his death in late 1474 or early 1475, is as follows:

• Post-Mortem Legal Activity by Family: This document shows Robert Isham's widow, Margaret, and his sons actively pursuing legal claims related to his estate immediately following his death. This suggests the family's continued engagement with the legal system to manage their financial affairs.
• Debt Recovery: The case is a straightforward debt action, indicating that Robert Isham Sr. was owed 63 shillings by John Leycetur, an apothecary from Northampton. This provides a glimpse into the financial transactions and economic relationships of the Isham family.
• Family Confirmation: The document names Margaret (widow) and sons Robert (clerk), William, Richard, and John as joint plaintiffs, corroborating genealogical information about Robert Isham Sr.'s family and the names of his sons mentioned in the biographical overview. Robert's son being a clerk also aligns with potential career paths for sons of gentry families.
• Local Context: The defendant, John Leycetur, being an apothecary from Northampton, places the Isham family within the local economic and social context of Northamptonshire. It shows their interactions with tradespeople in the nearby town.

Abbreviated Latin Text

Line	Text
1	Norhpt': Marg'ia que fuit ux' Rob'ti Iseham' sen' Rob'tus cl'icus filius p'd'ci Rob'ti Iseham' sen' Will'us Iseham' filius
2	eiusdem Rob'ti Iseham' sen' Ric'us Iseham' filius p'd'ci Rob'ti Iseham' sen' et Joh'es Iseham' fil' p'd'ci Rob'ti
3	Iseham' sen' p' attornatum suu' op' se .iiij. die v'sus Joh'em Leycetur' de
4	Norhamptona in com' p'd'co potecary de pl'ito q'd reddat eis sexaginta et tres solidos quos eis iniuste
5	detinet etc. Et ip'e non ven'. Et diem p' ess' suos hic ad hunc diem postq'm sum' etc. Et ideo m'do m'dr' vic',
6	q'd att'o p'd'co Joh' Leycetur' pl'ito p'd'co q'd sit hic a die Pasche in .xv. dies etc.

Expanded Latin Text

Line	Text
1	Norhampton: Margeria que fuit uxor Roberti Iseham senioris Robertus clericus filius predicti Roberti Iseham senioris Willelmus Iseham filius
2	eiusdem Roberti Iseham senioris Ricardus Isham filius predicti Roberti Isham senioris et Johannes Isham filius predicti Roberti
3	Isham senioris per attornatum suum optulit se quarto die versus Johannem Leycetur de
4	Norhamptona in comitatu predicto potecary de placito quod reddat eis sexaginta et tres solidos quos eis iniuste
5	detinet etc. Et ipse non venit. Et diem per essoniatores suos hic ad hunc diem postquam summonitus etc. Et ideo mandatum mandatur vicecomiti,
6	quod attachiat predicto Johanni Leycetur placito predicto quod sit hic a die Pasche in quindecim dies etc.

English Translation

Line	Text
1	Northamptonshire: Margaret who was the wife of Robert Isham senior, Robert clerk son of the aforesaid Robert Isham senior, William Isham son
2	of the same Robert Isham senior, Richard Isham son of the aforesaid Robert Isham senior, and John Isham son of the aforesaid Robert
3	Isham senior by their attorney presented themselves on the fourth day against John Leycetur of
4	Northampton in the aforesaid county, apothecary, concerning a plea that he render to them sixty and three shillings which he unjustly
5	withholds etc. And he did not come. And he had a day by his essoiners here at this day after he was summoned etc. And therefore now mandate is given to the sheriff,
6	that he attach the aforesaid John Leycetur concerning the aforesaid plea that he be here fifteen days from Easter day etc.