An intriguing look into the finances of a major landowner, The Berkely Family 1699 – 1809.

Firstly, how did they come to own the land? Well, it starts with a wealthy Bristol merchant Robert Fitzharding in the 12th century. He was a supporter of Matilda the mother of the future King Henry II. His reward were the lands held by the previous occupant who had supported Stephen. Fitzharding then took on the name Berkeley.

Jim’s research focused on the finances of the estate from the 2^nd Earl to the death of the 5^th Earl. In this period the income for the estate rose from £1800+ to £22000+ per year. It was only in the time of the 5^th Earl that there was a dramatic increase, although through no real action of his own.

In the main the income of the estate relied on various types of lease agreements with the agents of farmers or directly with farmers that worked on the land. All rather complicated and various maps highlighted the structure of these agreements.

It is thought that the Earls were not the best at managing their finances and money was spent elsewhere. Indeed, the estate may have broken up by the time of the 5^th Earl. However, he married Mary Cole who is said was the saviour of the estate who reorganised and optimised the income. Mary is an interesting historical character in her own right, born of lowly birth, 5 illegitimate and 7 legitimate children. Well worth investigating.

Jim finished by fielding some thoughtful taxing questions. Rather him than me.