John MORTLOCK

Occupation Details

• From 1686 to 1686 John's occupation was Overseer of the Poor full time in public administration in Glemsford.

  • Occupation Notes
    • Although appointed by the vestry in Easter week the Overseers were the only parish officer bound by civil law. Created by statute in January 1601 they were appointed after election under the seal of two Justices of the Peace. Working closely with the Church Wardens they were responsible for setting and collecting the poor rate and distributing benefits to those requiring relief. They were required by law to keep detailed account books of income against expenditure and where possible were elected from substantial householders. The overseers would also endorse settlement certificates and bastardy bonds, present settlement queries to the justices for examination and effect removal orders. Along with the wardens they would arrange parish apprenticeships for deserving poor children.