BUNDLE 4: WARDROBE BOOKS

This subseries is a continuation of the previous subseries (Bundle 3).

The distinction between the records in C 47/3 and C 47/4 is primarily one of format. The files and rolls in C 47/3 include both subsidiary accounts and documents, and incomplete books of account; those in C 47/4 consist of books alone, although some may be composites of more than one account, whereas others, although imperfect, retain both their integrity and their original covers, within modern boards.

There are some related records, including some which may originally have been parts of the same rolls or files. The separation of the two major accumulations is an accident of archival custody, arising from the use of the Tower of London as a repository for records by both the Wardrobe of the Household and the Exchequer, see:

In the thirteenth and early fourteenth centuries, and most particularly under Edward I, the Wardrobe was a major department of state, receiving and dispersing revenues, having a critical role in the funding of wages of war, garrison expenditure and the expenses of fortifications, and with much responsibility also for the funding and administration of diplomacy. It was presided over by the Treasurer or Keeper, the controller, and the cofferer.

In addition, at this early period, until late in the reign of Edward II, the controller served also as the keeper of the privy seal, with responsibilities including diplomatic correspondence and treaties. Although the accounts of the Wardrobe were ultimately subject to Exchequer control and audit, it funded and audited a host of minor accounts that, at a later period, would be funded immediately from the Exchequer.