Burgess Ticket 1758 September 9

Access and use

Location of collection:
Colonial Williamsburg
John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Library
Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
P.O. Box 1776
Williamsburg, VA 23187
Contact for questions and access:
POC: Douglas Mayo
Phone: (757) 565-8521
Phone: (757) 565-8520
Fax: (757) 565-8528

Summary

Creator:
Melven, Thomas, fl. 1758
Abstract:
Language:
English

Background

Scope and content:

Issued to Thomas Melven, shoemaker of Cannongate, Edinburgh, Scotland. Melven was Received and Admitted Burgess and Freeman in the presence of the Baillies John Learmonth, Robert Pillens, and William Berry, as well as William Hamilton, Treasurer. Melven appears to have been made Burgess and Freeman not only because he was a shoemaker, but also on the grounds that his lawful spouse, Rachael Douglas, was the daughter of a shoemaker and Freeman Burgess. Melven paid five merks of Scots money for the honor. Freemen and Burgesses date to the 15th century. No man could carry on a trade or business unless he was a Burgess of the town in which he plied his vocation. The ticket is signed by James Leach.

Biographical / historical:

None available.

Acquisition information:
Purchase, 2002
Arrangement:

1 item.

Physical location:
On site.
Physical description:
1 item.