Catalogue description Exchequer Inquisitions ad quod Damnum

This series consists of a single made-up file of inquisitions ad quod damnum, many with their authorising writ still attached. The documents consist of both original and copy inquisitions and writs.

Inquisitions ad quod damnum were taken as a result of applications to the Crown for licences to alienate land, often to religious houses, or for grants of other privileges such as the right to hold fairs or markets, or to close a public road. The sheriff or escheator was to enquire by means of a sworn jury whether the proposed grant or licence would be prejudicial to the interests of the Crown or to anyone else.

In the case of copies the originals are in C 143