Fines no doubt originated in actual suits for recovering the possession of lands and other hereditaments, the possession thus gained being found so sure and effectual that fictitious actions were soon introduced for the sake of obtaining the same security.
Guide to the Public Records by Mr Seargill-Bird.
Feet of Fines for Essex Volume 1 (1182 to 1271)
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Feet of Fines for Essex Volume 2 (1272 to 1326)
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Feet of Fines for Essex Volume 3 (1327 to 1422)
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Feet of Fines for Essex Volume 4 (1423 to 1546)
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Feet of Fines for Essex Volume 5 (1547 to 1580)
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Feet of Fines for Essex Volume 6 (1581 to 1603)