1232 Charter
Brechin Charter of 1232 - Our Oldest Document
The charter of King Alexander II to Gillandrew McLeod of the lands of Neuthbarr and others to be held in fee heritage of one soldier and payment of 10s yearly to the Abbey of Brechin is the oldest document held by Angus Archives. It is in very good condition considering it is nearly 800 years old. A fragment of the delicate wax Royal seal still remains clearly showing the folds of the King's gown as he sits on the throne.
The charter illustrates the feudal nature of land tenure during the medieval period.
The "abbey" of Brechin was more properly called Brechin Cathedral. It was erected into a bishopric around the late 12th century but had been founded on a much earlier Celtic monastery. A survivor from this earlier period in its history is the famous Round Tower, oneof only two outside Ireland.
© Angus Council 1998 - 2011