Sheriff of Middlesex facts for kids
A sheriff is a very old and important job, helping to keep the peace and enforce laws in a local area. For many centuries, the county of Middlesex in England had its own sheriffs. This article tells you about the history of this role and some of the people who held it.
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History of the Middlesex Sheriff Role
For a long time, from around 1131 until 1889, Middlesex did not have its own separate sheriff. Instead, the City of London had a special arrangement. The people of London were allowed to choose two sheriffs for both "London and Middlesex." They paid a yearly fee of £300 to the King or Queen for this right.
This system continued for many years. But in 1889, a new law called the Local Government Act 1888 changed things. After this, a single High Sheriff was chosen just for Middlesex, just like in other English counties. At the same time, the busiest parts of Middlesex became part of the new County of London, which then had its own High Sheriff.
The job of High Sheriff of Middlesex ended in 1965. This was because the county of Middlesex itself was officially removed from the map. Most of its area became part of the new Greater London, which now has its own High Sheriff.
Early Sheriffs of Middlesex
The role of sheriff in Middlesex goes back a very long time. Here are some of the earliest known sheriffs:
- 1044: Esgar the Staller
- 1066: Geoffrey de Mandeville
- Roger de Rames
- 1103: Hugh of Buckland
Sheriffs from 1131 to 1888
During this long period, the sheriffs for Middlesex were the same people who served as the Sheriffs of London. They were chosen by the citizens of London and served both areas.
High Sheriffs from 1889 to 1965
After 1889, a single High Sheriff was appointed specifically for Middlesex each year. These sheriffs were usually chosen in February or March and held their position for about a year. Many different people served in this important role until the county of Middlesex was abolished in 1965.
After 1965, the area became part of the jurisdiction of the High Sheriff of Greater London.
See also
- Sheriffs of the City of London
