Sir William Ingleby’s Roll, Ref: BRO 1380/1/1
The Berwick Roll, as it is known was compiled by Sir William Ingleby between 1557 and 1560 when he was Treasurer of Berwick. He was appointed by Queen Elizabeth I . The roll consists of 30 membranes of parchment (calf skin), written on both sides in a clear Secretary hand. It lists all payments made by him in relation to Berwick and the Borders. Although the roll does not name individual soldiers, it does give a fascinating insight into Berwick’s importance to the safety and security of England at the time. The account notes particulars of transporting treasure to Berwick, refers to compensation paid to individuals (named) for the demolition of properties to enlarge the fortifications and lists money paid to spies in the “service of the Quenes maiestie”. The roll catalogues payments of over £257,000, a huge amount of money at the time which would be the equivalent of almost 44 million today.
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