Private Interests in Land

Introduction

Roman Empire Flourishes

Roman Empire Collapses

Rise of Feudalism

Overlords provide protection

Norman Conquest -- 1066

Battle of HastingsWilliam the Conqueror prevails

English Feudalism

Statute of Quia Emptores 1290

Abolishes subinfeudationConveyance now by substitution

Forms of Free Tenure

Knight Service

Forms of Free Tenure

Serjeanty

Forms of Free Tenure

Frankalmoin

Forms of Free Tenure

Socage

Common Incidents of Tenure

1. Homage

Common Incidents of Tenure

1. Homage2. Fealty

Common Incidents of Tenure

1. Homage2. Fealty3. Aids (financial support)

Common Incidents of Tenure

1. Homage2. Fealty3. Aids (financial support)4. Escheat

Common Incidents of Tenure

1. Homage2. Fealty3. Aids (financial support)4. Escheat5. Relief

Common Incidents of Tenure

1. Homage2. Fealty3. Aids (financial support)4. Escheat5. Relief6. Wardship

Common Incidents of Free Tenures

1. Homage2. Fealty3. Aids (financial support)4. Escheat5. Relief6. Wardship7. Marriage

Unfree Tenures

Villeins

Copyholders

Private Interests in Land

Introduction[continued]

“Modern” English Developments

1660 – Statute of Tenures Many feudal incidents changed into

mere monetary duties

1925 – Property Legislation All feudal incidents abolished

Tenure in the U.S.

English grants “free and common socage”

After Revolution Abolish all feudal tenures Treat all land as free Ignore (presumably, all free)

In re O’Connor’s Estate

Adams County