Clause rolls refer to official records or registers that contain engrossments or copies of legal documents, particularly written agreements or contracts. These rolls typically include clauses (individual provisions or terms) from various legal instruments, such as deeds, wills, or fines, hence the name "clause rolls." They serve as a summary or digest of the agreements, showcasing the essential details without reproducing the entire text of the document.
Clause rolls were extensively used in medieval England as a means of record-keeping and legal reference. They were prevalent during the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries, and many survive to this day, allowing historians and researchers to gain insights into the legal practices and societal norms of the time.
These rolls were typically created by the chancery, the administrative arm of the English royal government responsible for drafting legal documents, recording proceedings, and maintaining official records. Clause rolls were compiled for various purposes, including for record-keeping, legal authentication, or for individuals to reference their legal agreements.
In modern times, clause rolls are considered valuable historical artifacts and are often utilized by legal historians, genealogists, or scholars researching medieval English law. They provide invaluable evidence of legal transactions, property ownership, familial relations, and other matters relevant to the historical reconstruction of the period.
