The Common Lands of Rotherham is the town's oldest charity. It was established in the early part of the 14th Century and since then has continuously supported Rotherham’s citizens and population. The charity is overseen by twelve feoffees, who act as ‘Trustees’, of the charity and who control, manage and govern the various elements associated with it. Feoffees are unpaid and all have some form of
close association with and interest in Rotherham. The Charity is now regulated by The Charities Commission and its Registered Number is 223050. In 1589 The Feoffees received a royal charter from Queen Elizabeth I and over the intervening 400 years, Feoffees played an important role in overseeing many areas of civic life. Feoffees responsibilities included health, welfare, defence, law & order and the provision of a safe drinking water supply. Associated with this latter element they were also responsible for the brewing and distribution of English ale and beer. Also, information on which can be found elsewhere on this site, The Feoffees were heavily involved in the development and provision of education, as well as supporting the poor and needy. This work continues today the distribution of annual doles - a tradition which can be traced back to the origins of the organisation as well as providing a small number of scholarships to support young people of the town who are taking the first steps in their chosen vocations.
