The Sheriffs of York and Yorkshire in the Tudor Period1

This is the first article-length study of the sheriffs of York and Yorkshire in the Tudor period. It argues that the shrievalty was a thriving system which fulfilled diverse vital functions of local government and administration. It begins by introducing the sheriffs of York and Yorkshire, explaining their relationship and manner of appointment. It then explains the principal duties of these sheriffs, namely service on the city council of York, the execution of writs, the keeping of prisoners, the maintenance of law and order and revenue collection. The article proceeds to analyse the sheriffs' judicial responsibilities in the Court of Pleas, tourn and county court. It concludes with information about a broader project conceived by the author: a comprehensive study of the Tudor sheriff across England, Wales and Ireland.