Global InformationThe Maire of Bristowe is Kalendar information
 Frontispiece of 1872 transcription of The Maire of Bristowe is Kalendar by the Camden Society | |
| Author | Robert Ricart |
|---|---|
| Country | England |
| Subject | History of Bristol |
Publication date | circa 1490 |
| Media type | manuscript |
The Maire of Bristowe is Kalendar (Ricart's Calendar) is a book compiled in the late 15th century by Robert Ricart, town clerk of Bristol, England. The work consists of six parts giving a history of England and of the city of Bristol, a list of civic officers, and details of local customs and ceremonies.[1] Commissioned by mayor William Spencer, the Kalendar was started circa 1478–79.[2] Scribed on vellum, separated by leaves of parchment, the book was reproduced in print in the 19th century for Lucy Toulmin Smith's edition, which omitted some content.[3] It is regarded as one of the earliest examples of a town chronicle outside London.[4]
Little is known of Ricart, apart from his office as town clerk and the possibility that he was a merchant, also known as Robert Ricardes. He also appears to have authored parts of the Great Red Book of Bristol, as well as the Little White Book.[5] Both books contain references to his being common clerk and as a witness.[6] His entries in the Kalendar date from 1479 until 1506.[7]
The Kalendar is held at the Bristol Archives in Hotwells, Bristol. The original is fragile, but the contents may be viewed by microfiche.[8]
- ^ Toulmin Smith, pp.iii-xiv
- ^ Fleming, p 310, 315
- ^ Fleming, p 290
- ^ Loades, David (2008). "Literature and National Identity". In Loewenstein, D; Mueller, J. (eds.). The Cambridge History of Modern English Literature. Cambridge University Press. p. 226.
- ^ Fleming, pp 307–8
- ^ Burgess, Clive (2004). "Ricart, Robert (fl. 1478)". Oxford Dictionary of National Biography. Oxford Dictionary of National Biography (online ed.). Oxford University Press. doi:10.1093/ref:odnb/23473. Retrieved 1 August 2013. (Subscription or UK public library membership required.)
- ^ Jones, Dr Evan. "Robert Ricart's Chronicle of Bristol, 1480–1508". The Smugglers' City. Department of History, University of Bristol. Retrieved 1 August 2013.
- ^ "Ricart's Maiores Kalendar and The Lord Mayors Calendar 04720". Bristol Record Office Catalogue. Bristol City Council.