BARMOTE COURTS Meaning and
Definition
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Barmote Courts were special courts established in medieval England to oversee the regulation and governance of lead mining activities. The term "barmote" is derived from the medieval Latin word "barometricus," meaning pertaining to weights or measures. These courts were primarily located in the Derbyshire region, which was known for its rich lead deposits.
The Barmote Courts had jurisdiction over various aspects of lead mining, including granting mining licenses, settling disputes, and ensuring compliance with mining regulations. They were responsible for resolving conflicts between miners, landowners, and mineral rights holders, as well as overseeing the collection and distribution of royalties and revenues derived from lead mining operations.
One of the key functions of the Barmote Courts was to regulate the measurement and valuation of lead ore extracted from mines. Miners were required to bring their ore to designated places called "rakes," where it would be weighed and assessed for its value. The courts ensured that a fair and standardized system was in place, preventing fraud and manipulation.
The Barmote Courts were presided over by a steward or bailiff, appointed by the Crown or the Duchy of Lancaster. Local lead miners and landowners also had a role in the administration of these courts. Over time, the influence and jurisdiction of the Barmote Courts declined as the mining industry changed, leading to their eventual demise in the early 19th century. Nonetheless, their legacy remains as an important part of the legal and administrative history of lead mining in England.
Etymology of BARMOTE COURTS
The term "Barmote Courts" has its origin in Middle English, specifically the word "bremot" or "bermot", which meant "distinctive color" or "mark". This word also referred to the mark or seal used to verify the quality and quantity of metals, particularly lead, mined in the Barmote districts of Derbyshire, England.
The Barmote Courts were established in these mining districts during the medieval period to regulate the lead mining industry. They were responsible for overseeing the operation of mines, ensuring fair weights and measures, resolving disputes, and collecting royalties for the Crown. The courts derived their name from the distinctive marks or seals used to authenticate the quality of the lead ore.
The word "barmote" is believed to have derived from older Germanic or Anglo-Saxon roots, but its exact etymology remains uncertain.
