Tithe map: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 16:16, 14 November 2011

Revision as of 16:18, 14 November 2011

Line 10:

==Tithe Commutation Act 1836==

The [[Tithe Commutation Act 1836]] and an amending act in 1837 established a process by which tithes could be converted to money payments. This required the drawing of an accurate map (the accuracy of which was certified by commissioners) showing all the land in the parish. The series of maps resulting from this legeslationlegislation provideprovides unprecedented coverage, detail and accuracy.<ref>Roger Kain, ''Enclosure maps, tithe maps, parochial assessment maps, local Board of Health maps'' in Wallis</ref>

The initial intent was to produce maps of the highest possible quality, but the expense (incurred by the landowners) led to the provision that the accuracy of the maps would be testified to by the seal of the commissioners, and only maps of suitable quality would be so sealed. In the end, about one sixth of the maps had seals. A map was produced for each "tithe district", that is, one region in which tithes were paid as a unit. These could be distinct from parishes or townships. Areas in which tithes had already been commutated were not mapped, so that coverage varied widely from county to county. The maps indicated parcels and buildings, assigning each a number.