The National Archives (UK) | Shakespeare Documented

The National Archives is one of the world’s most valuable resources for academic research and an independent research organization in its own right. As the official archive and publisher for the UK government, and England and Wales they are the guardians of some of the UK's most iconic national documents dating back more than 1,000 years. Their role is to collect and secure the future of the government record, both digital and physical, to preserve it for generations to come, and to make it as accessible and available as possible. The collection at Kew is open to everyone.

Terms of use

Images reproduced by permission of The National Archives, London, England.

The National Archives give no warranty as to the accuracy, completeness or fitness for the purpose of the information provided.
Images may be used only for purposes of research, private study or education. Applications for any other use should be made to The National Archives Image Library, Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 4DU, Tel: 020 8392 5225 Fax: 020 8392 5266.

Documents contributed by The National Archives (UK)

January 28, 1613

John Combe's last will and testament: original copy

John Combe of Stratford-upon-Avon was a contemporary of William Shakespeare. Though Combe was from a far wealthier and more established family, by the second decade of the seventeenth century Shakespeare’s accumulated wealth placed the two men on an essentially equal footing.

August 25, 1613

The deposition of the actor William Harrison in the Star Chamber trial of Sir John Yorke et al.

SHAKESPEARE DOCUMENTED IS STILL GROWING! Descriptive content and transcriptions will continue to be added, updated and expanded. Check back for regular updates!

1613- 1614

Shakespeare purchases the Blackfriars Gatehouse: Index to Grantees

In March 1613 William Shakespeare and three associates agreed to purchase the Gatehouse of the former Dominican priory in London known as “Blackfriars” from Henry Walker for the sum of £140. The indenture of bargain and sale is dated March 10.

1613- 1614

Shakespeare purchases the Blackfriars Gatehouse: Index to Grantors

In March 1613 William Shakespeare and three associates agreed to purchase the Gatehouse of the former Dominican priory in London known as “Blackfriars” from Henry Walker for the sum of £140. The indenture of bargain and sale is dated March 10.

April 26 and May 5, 1615

Sir Thomas Bendish, William Shakespeare et al. v. Matthew Bacon relating to the title to property in Blackfriars: Bill of complaint and answer

In 1613 William Shakespeare, with the assistance of three trustees, purchased the gatehouse in the Blackfriars neighborhood of London, evidently as an investment.

Pages