This is an extract from the Vestry Minute book of Kirknewton, 1768 - 1944. The entry, from July 1861, relates to the pews [seats] within the church and who sat where during a service. Those pews which did not have a name attached were free to any person who wished to attend the service. It was usual at this time to rent a pew. Payment of a pew rent ensured that you had a reserved place within the church.
Many of the Kirknewton parish records are deposited with Northumberland Archives Service. Previously they were kept at the church. For many years church records were stored in the Parish Chest. This tradition dates back to medieval times. The Chest would usually be found in the vestry and kept under lock and key. All church records would be stored there. For example, baptism registers, poor relief records and churchwardens' accounts would all be found within the Chest.
