Corrody

Corrody

A corrody is an allowance of food and clothing from an abbey, monastery, or other religious house. While rarely practiced in the modern era, corrodies were common in the Middle Ages. They were routinely awarded to the servants and staff of royalty, but could also be purchased with donations of money or land. The corrody is one of the earliest forms of insurance, as it provided security in sustenance and lodging in a time when social welfare was scarce.

The price offered for corrodies are unknown. Academic estimates, based on the value of the commodities provided, place the amount around £3 per year. This assumes an allowance of one loaf of bread and a gallon of ale, but excludes the cost of accommodations and living expenses. When multiplied by the life expectancy of the era, it can be assumed that a life-long corrody for an average person would cost approximately £100.

References

  • Lewin, C G (2003). Pensions and Insurance before 1800 - a social history. Tuckwell Press. pp. 37–49. ISBN 1-86232-211-2.