Oldest surviving copy of Dumfries Burgh's Royal Charter

Its Royal Charter was a Burgh's most important possession because it gave the townspeople control over the affairs of their town. This was an important privilege in the days of feudalism when most people lived on the land of a lord and either had to work or fight for him.  Dumfries' original charter of 1186 has been long since lost. King Robert II re-stated the Burgh's rights in a charter of 1395.   This is the oldest surviving copy of the charter, made about 1580.  Dumfries kept the rights given in this document provided it paid £40 annually to the King.
Object no :
DMDO005n
Collection :
The Royal Burgh of Dumfries
Creator :
NA
Place of Production :
NA
Dimensions :
NA
Materials :
paper
Location :
NA
Related site :
Mark Farm, Castle Kennedy
2 Fmedia2 F202842 F1340

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