The stables: Riding Purveyors, Purveyors and Granitors

Riding Purveyor c. 1669–1702; 1714–1782

The riding purveyor (referred to as the 'Yeoman Riding Purveyor' on the Stables Establishment of 1669) was appointed by the master of the horse. His duty was to provide horses, at a daily rate previously agreed upon, when the court was on progress. However, this office had become superfluous and its incumbent inactive by 1782.

This officer was allowed wages of £27 7s 6d and a hackney livery (later the equivalent in money of a nagg's livery) on the Establishments of Charles II. Under James II his wages were raised to £200 per annum. He also received an allowance of 6d per horse per night. The office was not filled under Queen Anne. It was finally abolished in 1782. (fn. 1)

Purveyors and Granitors c. 1669–1782

The purveyors and granitors supplied the King's Stables with provisions for horses. They were appointed by warrant of the master of the Horse to the avenor and clerk martial. The Establishment of 1669 provides for six yeomen purveyors and four purveyors and granitors at 2s per diem, plus a hackney livery, apiece (translated on the Est. of 1682 to £27 7s 6d). That of 1682 lists a total of ten purveyors and granitors, with five to determine. The Establishment of 1685 reduced their number to four at £47 per annum, each. A single purveyor and granitor was appointed in 1702 at £120 per annum. This rose to two at £47 in 1714, then four in 1716, before falling again to one at £188 in 1727. Two were named again at £94 apiece from 1733. (fn. 2)

By 1782 the provisions for horses were made by contract; it was therefore decided to abolish the salaries of these officers. (fn. 3)

Yeomen Purveyors c. 1669–1682

(From 1682 listed with Purveyors and Granitors)

Purveyors and Granitors c. 1669–1782

Purveyor at Windsor c. 1682–1727

Purveyor and Granitor at Hampton Court 1669–1685; 1689–1727