Each Tuesday and Friday morning in 15th century
Hull, one of the town’s aldermen, dressed in his finest fur-edged robes, walked
out of the Guildhall into Marketgate. As
the clock of Holy Trinity reached nine, with great gravitas and solemnity he rang the bell that hung on the side of the century old Guildhall. The noise carried right up the packed street
to the furthest market stalls near Whitefriargate; a proud metallic ring worthy
of the princely sum of 6s 8d that the bell had cost. That day’s market was now officially open.
Sometimes the sheriff or town crier would accompany the
alderman if there was a royal proclamation to read, or more accurately bellow,
to the gathered crowd. With people still
dissecting the king’s latest news about war or taxes, the swirl of market day
began - enthusiastic haggling; the clattering and chinking of silver groats and
pennies; and vigorous allegations that unofficial, inaccurate weights were
being used.
This activity was overseen by the market keeper, who
monitored cleanliness, location of stalls, and the display of food. The keeper was not trusted however with the
cornmarket; that was the responsibility of the alderman on duty. Although medieval diets included fish, meat
and a few root vegetables, bread was the most important part of every
meal. Consequently to ensure all got their
fare share, until 1pm only local householders and cooks could buy corn. Ship-owners and the like wishing to buy in
bulk had to wait their turn.
For the same reason, it was important that the king’s assize
of bread was kept. This stipulated that
bakers must produce loaves of a set size, which then must be sold at set price
linked to the cost of wheat. Those who
tried to make a bit extra profit by baking undersized loaves risked fines and after
three offences a stint in the pillory.
Hull’s pillory was located over a shop in Marketgate and here, locked in
by the arms and neck, miscreants faced the customers that they had attempted to
defraud. After 1427 a roof provided some
protection from any missiles hurled their way, but there was still the public
shaming.
As the afternoon rolled around trade quietened down. With shopping done, now was a chance for the
citizens of Hull to catch up with friends and acquaintances from outside town. The market keeper could take a well-deserved
rest, his day having started early supervising the fish market that was held
at either six or seven o’clock depending on the season. Hull’s inns filled with visitors looking for
a bite to eat and a refreshing drink or two before beginning the journey home.
Photo:
Statue of King William III at the southern end of Market Place, Hull, close by
to where the medieval Guildhall once stood.
No comments:
Post a Comment