High Sheriff of Berkshire

The High Sheriff of Berkshire, in common with other counties, was originally the King's representative on taxation upholding the law in Saxon times. The word Sheriff evolved from 'shire-reeve'.

The title of High Sheriff is therefore much older than the other crown appointment, the Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire, which came about after 1545. Between 1248 and 1566, Berkshire and Oxfordshire formed a joint shrievalty (apart from a brief period in 1258/1259). See High Sheriff of Oxfordshire.

Unlike the Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire, which is generally held from appointment until the holder's death or incapacity, the title of High Sheriff is appointed / reappointed annually. The High Sheriff is assisted by an Under-Sheriff of Berkshire.

Read more about High Sheriff Of Berkshire:  List of High Sheriffs of Berkshire, 1567–1599, 1600–1699, 1700–1799, 1800–1899, 1900–1999, 2000–present

Famous quotes containing the words high and/or sheriff:

    And the shuttle never falters, but to draw an encouraging conclusion
    From this would be considerable, too odd. Why not just
    Breathe in with the courage of each day, recognizing yourself as one
    Who must with difficulty get down from high places?
    John Ashbery (b. 1927)

    The man’s an M.D., like you. He’s entitled to his opinion. Or do you want me to charge him with confusing a country doctor?
    —Robert M. Fresco. Jack Arnold. Sheriff Jack Andrews (Nestor Paiva)