Towneley of Towneley Collection

DDTO K-1-5 - Lancashire Archives' oldest document

One of the first challenges for the newly formed Friends of Lancashire Archives was to raise money to help secure the Townley collection for Lancashire. We raised money through a wide range of events and activities and, in October 1990, contributed £2500 of the £60,000 required to buy the collection, which was already deposited in the record office.

The archive relates to the Townley family of Townley Hall, Burnley, and contains a large collection of medieval manuscripts, including the oldest document held at Lancashire Archives. This is a grant by Henry I to the bishop of Lincoln made in 1115 – yes, that's 900 years ago.

Available for everyone to enjoy at Lancashire Archives.

Reference: DDTO

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