Radnorshire Title Deed 1318

(R/X/238)

In 2013 Powys Archives purchased a medieval title deed dating from 1318 and relating to land near the town of Old Radnor.  It was bought with assistance from the V&A Purchase Grant Fund, and with donations from the Radnorshire Society and Powys Family History Society.

This type of document is extremely rare for Mid-Wales, and provides a fascinating glimpse into families and properties which existed in the county nearly 700 years ago.  Powys Archives previously held records from the fourteenth century, but this deed now becomes the oldest item in the collection. 

It is written in Latin, and transfers land located between Stanner and Beresties Bridge, from William, son of David of Bilimor, to Richard, son of Henry Hante of Berchlynghepe.  

The deed itself is made of parchment and the attached seal is made with bees wax and coloured with green verdigris.  The seal has been identified as a stylised lily and belongs to William, son of David of Bilimor.