Freemen of Lancaster to benefit from historic tradition
Applications are being invited for one of Lancaster's quirkiest traditions.
Applications are being invited for one of Lancaster's quirkiest traditions.
Each year Lancaster City Council is required by law to pay out contributions of 'Marsh Grass' to Freemen of the City of Lancaster.
The princely sum of £13 (subject to taxes) is payable to Freemen as compensation for the loss of rights to pasture 'beasts' on the Lancaster Marsh.
The tradition was established in 1900 when the Corporation of Lancaster wanted to have more power in respect of the disposal of the land on the Marsh.
It secured Parliamentary powers under which the Freemen's rights were extinguished. In return the Corporation agreed to make payments to the 80 most senior Freemen to compensate them for the loss of their rights.
As a guide to claimants, Freemen (or their widows) who were enrolled prior to 1980 qualified for inclusion on the list last year. Any Freeman who was admitted around this time and has lived within the old city boundaries for the 12 months prior to May 20 can apply to receive Marsh Grass.
Anyone who thinks that they may qualify to be included on the list of senior Freemen can apply to receive the payment from this year as vacancies are available to be filled.
Applicants should send details of their full name and address (in the case of a widow also including the name of their late spouse) and some proof of residency to the Head of Democratic Services, Town Hall, Lancaster, LA1 1PJ by the closing date of April 30 2008.
Applications will be dealt with on a first come first served basis until all vacancies have been filled.
Date Updated: 19/03/09