Shelia, Now as I try to learn about my SMITH family, I will try to learn who was the Lord at Knayton-- just north of Thirsk. Thanks for you help. Margaret In a message dated 5/30/2008 7:49:48 A.M. Central Daylight Time, sheila.harris@wanadoo.fr writes: Richardsons Local History Encyclopedia defines it as tenure held by custom and the Lord of the manors will, the Tenant had to provide some services to the Lord and was protected by Title written into the Court rolls. To transfer the propety it was surrendored to the Lord who then transferred it to the next tenant. It ceased to exist in 1926 Sheila **************Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food. (http://food.aol.com/tyler-florence?video=4&?NCID=aolfod00030000000002)