Genealogy Chat

hi i have come across a burial for 1 of my ancestors it says she was buried in WOOLEN . Can anyone tell me what it means in woolen ty trevor

Burial In Woollen Act 1666 - 1680






While looking through Parish Records, there may be written within the entry
'Buried In Woollen'.

Here's a little more about this ...

During 1666 - 1680, The Burial in Woollen Acts required that the dead should
be buried in shrouds of pure wool. This excluded plague victims.

Also, an affidavit had to sworn infront of a Justice of the Peace confirming that
the body had been buried in wool. There was a penalty of £5 if any other material
was used.

The incumbent would then write the word affidavit, or note A or Aff against the
relevant entry in the Parish Register.

If a family were poor and could not afford a woollen shroud, the entry in the
register may have the word 'naked' written in it.

Affidavits may have been copied into Parish registers, also notes of burials and
affidavits along with fees paid may be found in Churchwardens's accounts or
vestry minutes.

The law stayed in force until 1814 but was usually ignored after 1770

tyvm libby that is very helpful regards trevor