Description:Sir Thomas Gower was MP for New Malton in North Yorkshire from 1661 until 1672. Amongst his papers are a number of documents relating to his responsibilities in this role which tell us about the type of work which MPs were involved in at this time. These documents are also valuable sources for learning about the role of tenants in the life of their borough in the late seventeenth century.
Many documents relate to finances, including assessments for poor rates and for raising money. One document is entitled ‘Assesment made the 5th of May Anno Domine 1672, raiseing of money for Lame soldyers hospitals house of Correction and other nesessarye occations And for repaire of the Church of St: Michaell’. The document lists names of tenants in New Malton, presumably those identified as being eligible to contribute money towards the various projects.
Similarly to modern council tax, the assessment indicates that people were required to contribute money to fund local initiatives, such as the construction of hospitals and prisons. The document suggests that Sir Thomas Gower, as MP for New Malton, was responsible for overseeing such financial assessments.
To see a document relating to Poor Relief in New Malton, click on the image on the left.