Founded by Thomas Fastolf early in the reign of Edward I, the community had a master, 8 brothers and 8 sisters according to Dugdale.
While once both brothers and sisters lived here, there are only women at termination.
There were 8 in 1278 and 4 in 1535.
In 1354 Walter di Bintre, donzel Duke of Lancaster, requests a papal indulgence for benefactors, brothers and sisters. Other indulgences granted from the Bishop of Ely in 1419.
Around 1398 it was taken over by Yarmouth corporation from which it eventually obtained it's independence. Further benefactors were William Gerbrigge, senior, by testament 1278; Walter di Bintre, donzel duke Lancaster, in 1354; Richard Fastolf in 1356, and William de Statham, 13?.
After 1398 the hospital was governed by Yarmouth. Yarmouth named the warden and created new statutes, but the hospital did not flourish.
The assets of the hospital declined under the managment of Yarmouth sometime after 1398. It had about 5 pounds per year in 1535 to support 4 poor women.
In 1354 the hospital had alms to support the brothers and sisters. General rents and rent from 2 fish-houses in Yarmouth were the sources of income.
Cared for poor brothers and sisters. After 1535 there were only women present.
After 1398 the hospital is governed by Yarmouth. Yarmouth names the warden and creates new statutes, but the hospital did not flourish.
[1]Testament of William Gerbidge Sr (1278)
[2] A petition to Pope Innocent VI from the vassal of the Duke of Lancaster. (1354)
Dugdale's Monasticon Volume 6 Part 2
St. Mary's Hospital at Yarmouth
The Victoria History of the County of Norfolk 2:452 available online at ">http://www.british-history.ac.uk/report.aspx?compid=38326&strquery=st%20... [Victoria County History]
