One of the most important documents in Leeds’ history was rescued from an unlikely fate as a makeshift lampshade, city archivists have revealed, as preparations continue for a major exhibition celebrating 400 years since the city was granted its royal charter.
The one-of-a-kind copy of the Leeds Royal Charter, delicately inscribed centuries ago — came to light in the most unexpected of places: a Canterbury bookshop in the 1950s. Records show the shop’s owner, Mr C E Cheshire, had bought the parchment at a village sale in east Kent. At some point it slipped behind a bookcase in his shop, where it lay forgotten for six years.
When it was rediscovered, Mr Cheshire asked an archivist friend to take a look, still intending to turn what he believed was a piece of antique vellum into a stylish new lampshade. Instead, the consultation revealed an extraordinary truth: the finely written text was the sole surviving copy of the Royal Charter first granted to Leeds by King Charles I in 1626.
With the significance of the find confirmed, the Corporation of Leeds moved swiftly to secure the charter, offering to buy it for £10 and 10 shillings — ensuring the document would return to the city whose story it helped to shape.
However, in a noble gesture, Mr Cheshire instead decided to gift the document back to the people of Leeds, writing on July 8, 1952: “As we now realise the importance of this missing link in your civic history we would like you to ask the Lord Mayor, Aldermen and Members of the Corporation if they would accept this Copy of the Charter as a gift to the Citizens of Leeds from my Son (C E Cheshire Junr) and myself.”
Today, the precious parchment is cared for by the West Yorkshire Archive Service in Leeds and will soon go on public display as part of this year’s Leeds 400 celebrations, which will see the city come together to mark four centuries since the charter was bestowed.
Beautifully written in Latin on animal skin, the document held in Leeds dates from 1646. Archivists say it is an exact copy of the original 1626 charter, produced in haste by 17th-century scribes after the first version was lost during the English Civil War.
The granting of the charter proved a turning point for Leeds, laying the foundations of the modern city by incorporating it as a ‘free borough’ and establishing it as a ‘body corporate and politic’.
Alex Pearson, archives assistant with West Yorkshire Archive Service said:
“The charter is a truly impressive document and a physical representation of what was without a doubt one of the most significant moments in the history of Leeds.
“It’s astonishing to think the only remaining copy almost became a lampshade, and it goes to show how even the most important documents can sometimes crop up in the most unlikely places.
“Not only did having a Royal Charter give the city a considerable amount of added prestige at the time, it also laid down some of the pivotal political, economic and social rules which helped the city take control of its own destiny and begin to grow into the place we know today.
“Four hundred years later, we can still see the massive impact the charter had on Leeds and as the city celebrates this historic year, it’s a privilege to give people the chance to see such a remarkable piece of heritage in person.”
A second ornate charter, issued later in 1661 by King Charles II, is also preserved by the archive service. That document granted Leeds further autonomy, including the power to appoint a mayor as the city’s most senior official.
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture said:
“Leeds 400 is a chance for us to look back at some of the landmark moments which helped shape Leeds, and it’s wonderful that we still have such a historic document as a tangible reminder of our city’s unique story.
“Throughout the year, we’re looking forward to working with partners, communities and organisations across the city to celebrate this important milestone and we hope everyone will join us in showcasing the very best of past, present and future Leeds.”
The charters are among the millions of records held by the West Yorkshire Archive Service and, throughout the year, staff will be giving the public opportunities to view highlights from the collection as part of the Leeds 400 programme.
The exhibitions will sit within a wider calendar of events and activities across the city, aiming to reflect the spirit, creativity and culture of Leeds, with key partners working together to mark the milestone. Residents, community groups and organisations are also being encouraged to get involved and celebrate in their own way.
Details on West Yorkshire Archives Service can be found at West Yorkshire Heritage | West Yorkshire Archive Service
More information on getting involved with Leeds 400, including hosting your own events, can be found at Leeds 400 | leeds.gov.uk
