Shakespeare's Blackfriars Deed

William Shakespeare (1564-1616) and Henry Walker (d.1616?)
Deed of bargain and sale for Shakespeare's purchase of Blackfriars Gatehouse from Henry Walker
March 10, 1613
Folger MS Z.c.22 (45)

This is Shakespeare's copy of the deed for his purchase of the Blackfriars Gatehouse in London, on March 10, 1613. His purchase included free entry through the gate and yard, and also to "all and singular cellars, sollars [attics], rooms, lights, easements, profits, commodities, and hereditaments whatsoever to the said dwelling house or tenement belonging." Despite its convenient location near the Blackfriars Playhouse, the winter headquarters for the King's Men since 1609, the gatehouse dwelling was apparently only an investment for Shakespeare, who lived for the most part at New Place in Stratford-upon-Avon.

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This page updated June 27, 2002