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Treasures of the West Yorkshire Archive Service

Wakefield


Diary and Terrier Book of Brotherton Parish (WDP74)
1561 – 2001

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The diary and terrier of the vicarage of Brotherton gives detailed descriptions of the church, vicarage and their fixtures and fittings.

It also notes social and economic changes that affected village life but most significantly, this unique book gives us some of the thoughts and feelings of a succession of incumbents of St Edward the Confessor, which are both amusing and at times quite scathing of the people of Brotherton!



H.M. Prison Wakefield, Convicts Reception Register (C1303)
1858 - 1862

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The register covers an interesting period in the history of prison reform as it covers the point at which it was recognised that prisons, whilst being places of punishment, should not be detrimental to the individual’s health. Capital punishment was phased out for all but the most serious of crimes.


The register gives us an amazing amount of information about the offender which includes name, age and occupation; marital status and number of children; ability to read & write; crime committed and date; previous convictions; address and names of next of kin; remarks on the individuals character and perhaps most fascinating of all, a physical description.


Nostell Priory, Winn Family Archive (WYL1352)
12th – 20th Century

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The Nostell Priory collection we hold ranges from the family papers to the estate records, and hidden within this is an unassuming recipe book that contains numerous recipes for all manner of things, ranging from the edible to the remedial.

These recipes are a highlight of the collection as they give us an insight into everyday life at Nostell Priory, such as the food that was available and how it would be eaten, as well as the preparation and cooking methods involved.

The remedial section shows the common illnesses at the time, as well as what medical knowledge existed. Interestingly, there are various cures for scurvy and the related symptoms, such as loose teeth or an aching mouth, could this have been an ongoing issue, with an unbalanced diet a contributing factor?


Borough Of Pontefract, Records (WMT/PO)
1194 - 1974

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Pontefract Borough is one of the oldest in the country and it has seen some significant historical acts take place within its boundary.

When Civil War broke out Pontefract Castle remained a Royalist stronghold and was reputed to have been the last to fall to Cromwell’s armies. After the third siege of the castle it was decided to destroy the castle fully and this is noted in the first minute book of Pontefract Borough.



Watson Architects (WYW1728)
19th – 20th Century 

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The Watson family contributed to the changing face of Wakefield over the last two centuries as they designed a number buildings and also made alterations to significant buildings including hospitals, schools, war memorials, churches and local businesses.

This collection is full of detailed plans of projects the family were involved in, and they not only cover the Wakefield area, but also all over West Yorkshire.


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