Identity area
Reference code
Title
Date(s)
- 1781-1979 (Creation)
Level of description
Extent and medium
3 volumes, paper
Context area
Archival history
Content and structure area
Scope and content
In 1781, on being appointed Master, Dr Peckard decided that better record keeping was needed and began the Order Book to record decisions. Until 1971 it was used for Governing Body 'Orders', that is instructions for immediate action.
In 1911 a separate Minute Book was established for discussions etc. probably at the suggestion of A. C. Benson.
From 1911 the entries in the Order Book (the instructions to College Officers and staff for immediate implementation) were written in the book as the meeting proceeded by the Junior Fellow. This was then read over at the end of the meeting for checking, all Fellows present signing finally in order of seniority.
After the meeting the next most Junior Fellow then wrote the Minutes in the Minute Book, taking his time and consulting the Master as necessary.
On 1 Nov 1962, the formal decision was made that in future the Bursar would keep the Minutes.
Typed Orders continued to be pasted in the Order Book until 1971. Since then the Order Book has been used to record the most formal business such as the admittance of Fellows, Honorary Fellows, Masters, and Scholars. Signatures were usually required.
For Order Books 1971 - present see MCAD/2 Presidents Records.