Legal Definitions - scyra

scyra

Historically, scyra is a term used to refer to a significant administrative division, akin to a modern county, or to the collective body of people residing within that division.

• Meaning 1: A geographical administrative region or county.

  In historical contexts, particularly in medieval England, a scyra was a primary unit of local government and administration, often overseen by a sheriff (a term derived from "shire-reeve").

  Example: During the 11th century, a royal decree might be sent to the scyra of Wessex, instructing its local officials to prepare for a census of landholdings. In this instance, scyra denotes the specific geographical territory and its established administrative framework responsible for carrying out the king's command.

• Meaning 2: The inhabitants or people of a particular county.

  This usage emphasizes the collective population of a shire, often in the context of their rights, duties, or shared identity.

  Example: Following a period of famine in the 14th century, chronicles might record that the scyra of Northumberland petitioned the local lord for relief and assistance. Here, scyra refers to the collective group of people living within Northumberland who were experiencing hardship and sought aid.