Notes and Queries, Number 166, January 1, 1853

A lively Victorian forum for scholars, artists and genealogists, this issue of Notes and Queries opens a window onto the bustling world of antiquarian cooperation. It centers on the Society of Antiquaries’ ambitious project to rescue, re‑bind and catalogue the nation’s royal proclamations—particularly the priceless Elizabethan documents that form one of the three largest surviving collections. With the State Paper Office’s Mr. Lemon overseeing a fresh mounting and binding programme, the Society is racing to make these fragile papers accessible to all who study history.

The article extends a courteous invitation to anyone holding duplicate proclamations to join the effort, promising that contributions will both enrich personal collections and help fill critical gaps in the national record. By sharing vivid examples—such as the chaotic post‑road traffic that greeted James I.’s accession—the piece reveals how these proclamations illuminate everyday life, manners and the evolution of the postal system. A forthcoming catalogue will guide future researchers through this newly ordered trove.