Monument record 805/13 - Fotheringhay Fair

In 1308 an annual St Michael's (Michaelmas) fair was granted for 3 days 27th-29th September. In 1659 it was still taking place, but had discontinued by c.1720. In 1457 a further grant of a fair was given for 2 days beginning on the Monday after Relique Sunday (Sunday after 7th July), to mark the anniversary of Thomas Becket. In c.1720 this fair was still kept, though by 1800 it was held on the third Monday after the 5th July. In 1849 an annual horse fair was still held, on the 5th July, and as late as 1865 a cattle and horse fair of considerable importance was still being held. The site of the fairs remains unlocated within the settlement.

{1} In 1308 the Earl of Richmond also had the grant of an annual fair, on the eve, day and morrow of St. Michael (28th September). The right was confirmed 1330. In 1457 the Duke of York obtained a grant of a fair for two days beginning on the Monday after Relique Sunday (the Sunday after 7th July), the anniversary of Thomas Becket. In 1659 the right of a fair on the eve of St. Michael was still claimed by Lord Mountjoy, and in c.1720 the fair was still kept, the old fair at Michaelmas having by then been discontinued. In 1800 it was held on the third Monday after the 5th July. And in 1849 an annual horse fair was still held, on the 5th July. As late as 1865 a cattle and horse fair of considerable importance was still being held.

{2} 1308 Fair St Michael granted. 1457 Fair Relic Sunday.

<1> FOARD G., 1999, Northamptonshire Extensive Urban Survey: Fotheringhay (Medieval and Post Medieval), (checked) (Digital archive). SNN100481.

<2> Taylor J.; Foard G.; Ballinger J., 2002, Northamptonshire Extensive Urban Survey: Overview, Appendix 2 (checked) (Report). SNN103118.

Record last edited

Apr 16 2008 2:55PM