The Dublin guild merchant roll, c.1190-1265

The guild roll of medieval Dublin is the earliest-known town record extant in Britain and Ireland, and is certainly one of the best preserved and most striking documents of its kind. The roll was compiled between 1190 and 1265 and contains the names of those admitted annually to the merchant guild of Dublin with, for the early years, a record of fines paid on entry. The guild members came primarily from settlements in Ireland, England, Wales and Scotland but also from towns throughout Western Europe, from Scandinavia to Italy. In many instances the occupation of members is recorded in the text which is Latin, with occasional entries in English and French. The roll provides unique information on the social and economic history of medieval Dublin and its relationship with Europe in a time of notable political and cultural developments.